Shane said: "When a convention comes to town, particularly a large one, the local paper at least usually sends someone out to cover it. I'm sure we've all seen the articles: "Sci-Fi Maniacs Converge on Manchester," coupled with photograph of person in poorly-made Klingon costume. Also, these journalists usually like to make fans look as weird and pathetic as possible in order to sell papers."
A gross over generalisation and not my experience for the two cons I've been involed in running. At both Redemptins the local Kent newspaper gave us really nice friendly coverage. I was interviewed both times by the local radio in a courtious manner. And I even got interviewed by Radio 5 and was again treated seriously.
When I've discussed thsi with other con organisers, the general feeling is much the same - the local press want an entertaining story but do not tend to take the piss, more than maybe a few jokey puns.
I'd be interested Shane to know which papers relating to which conventions you have seen the behaviour you describe take place.
-- cheers Steve Rogerson http://homepages.poptel.org.uk/steve.rogerson
"In my world, there are people in chains and you can ride them like ponies" The alternative Willow, Buffy the Vampire Slayer