Welcome to the Jolson Free Zone

The Jolson Free Zone Manifesto:

1. We have no problem with Al Jolson or his music; however, we acknowledge that there are plenty of other options out there. Quality musical entertainment may even be created by artists who are currently alive, or who have been alive during the last half century.

2. We are grateful to the International Al Jolson Society for bringing us together; however, we resent that every convention is held in a crappy airport hotel with, to put it politely, the same old events every time. Variety is the spice of life, people...if you want spouses and families to attend (or, heaven forbid, to enjoy) the conventions, plan something new and different.

3. Speaking of new and different (and of crappy airport hotels), is it so much to ask that the conventions at least have one decent restaurant within walking distance?

4. Likewise, wouldn't it be nice if excursions were planned to highlight the location of the convention (or even if information about the local highlights were provided)? We realize that the IAJS has some sort of weird attraction to the fleabag airport hotels of the world, but the conventions could be held in the same place each year the way they are now, and there would be no difference. Right now, the IAJS members are simply trading travel expenses - you have it in my city one year so I don't have to pay and we'll have it in your city next year so you don't have to pay. Ridiculous.

5. Henceforth, the Jolson Free Zone shall hold alternative convention events each year. These events may include, but will not be limited to, spa appointments, long lunches at nice restaurants, tours of convention cities, shopping, and the like. All events shall be paid for independently by the individuals attending and no markup costs shall be charged. We are not for profit, after all.