Of obesity and weight management
Like Ruby Dawson before her, Sharon Carter is also ecstatic. Once again, I don't share her enthusiasm, but I am beginning to spot a pattern here.
The girls are clearly using the same template for their shit, which is then sent to the same harvested address list. Since they cannot be arsed to put a little more effort into it, I don't see why I should.
I'm still bored, and not feeling great. But I've at least got the major to-do item completed. (thumbup)
From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusmeets.com>
Reply-To: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusmeets.com>
Subject: Reserve your seat
Good day. Hope this mail finds you well in these tough times. We are ecstatic to announce our forthcoming event “2nd Edition of World Obesity and Weight Management Congress”. This year’s summit will be a Hybrid Event, including both onsite and virtual versions at Orlando, Florida, USA slated during October 17-18, 2022. We are certain that our choice will allow for widespread engagement. We came across your research article and found your work highly significant. We sincerely urge your cooperation in helping shape the future of Obesity together with other delegates and speakers and in this regard, we solicit your gracious presence at our grand congress as a Speaker. The worldwide conference will provide insight into the most recent trends and techniques used in the field by highlighting the theme "Lifting Endless Possibilities in Resilience to Obesity". We recommend you to check all the details related to this conference by visiting: Conference Website The conference is intended to serve as a forum for speakers to present their highly perceptive research work as well as expertise to the audience and delegates. Our goal at this critical juncture is to bring together global scientists, academicians, researchers and students on a single platform to share up-to-date knowledge, innovation, and compliance in the field. Let us celebrate what we, the professional community, have accomplished at this highly anticipated conference. We look forward to your confirmed presence in WOC-2022 either virtually or in-person. Kindly submit your abstract or your title of talk as a positive acknowledgement. Looking forward to your participation. Thanks, and Regards Sharon Carter Program Manager | WOC-2022 Email: obesity@scientific-meetings.com Phone: + 1 (702) 988-2320 WhatsApp: +1 (540) 709-1879 -------------------------------- 150 South Wacker Drive #2400 Chicago, IL 60606, USA
My template looks like this:
Dear [NAME], Thank you so much for your invitation to speak at such an important event! I am deeply honoured!! I note that you consider my research article to be highly significant in the field of [IRRELEVANT SUBJECT]. Could you please expand on which of my articles has gained such important interest? I would very much like to focus my address to the conference on the theme of “[GOBBLEDEGOOK]”. Your support and guidance in achieving this aim would be most appreciated. I apologise if you received this reply twice. I wasn't sure whether I should reply to [REPLY-TO HEADER] or [SIGNATURE EMAIL], and I wanted to ensure that you didn't miss it. Looking forward to your assistance. Thanks, and regards,
So, in this case my reply was:
Dear Sharon Carter, Thank you so much for your invitation to speak at such an important event! I am deeply honoured!! I note that you consider my research article to be highly significant in the field of obesity and weight management. Could you please expand on which of my articles has gained such important interest? I would very much like to focus my address to the conference on the theme of “Lifting Endless Possibilities in Resilience to Obesity”. Your support and guidance in achieving this aim would be most appreciated. I apologise if you received this reply twice. I wasn't sure whether I should reply to obesity@magnusmeets.com or obesity@scientific-meetings.com, and I wanted to ensure that you didn't miss it. Looking forward to your assistance. Thanks, and regards,
I have to admit that I was disappointed in Sharon's reply. Whereas I asked for specifics about my research that would of interest and relevance to her audience, she responded generically. I know that she hasn't a clue. She neither knows anything about my research, such as it is, nor cares; if she did she'd know that it has no bearing on obesity. She's simply trying to get paying bums on seats. But the lack of effort on her part is really quite disappointing.
The fact that I may even suggest a session of my choosing implies that minimal thought and vision have gone into planning this auspicious event.
I could ask again, for more specific assistance. But, while I'm happy to waste her time, mine's another matter. I'm no longer hung-over, and I have a life to lead.
Thank you for the mail. We are glad to know your interest towards WOC-2022. We went through some of your research articles and found that they fit to theme of the conference. You can give a talk related to any of the scientific sessions and can suggest a new session. For scientific session, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/program/scientific-sessions Kindly submit your abstract as per attached template as initial step for your participation. For abstract submission visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract If you require any further assistance, do let me know. We look forward to hear from you. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
I didn't reply to her last response. And, given that this shows no improvement, I feel no need to change.
But, at least she has a new mailer. Just to add to the confusion.
Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2022 16:05:35 +0530 Subject: Follow up Request for Abstract submission: WOC 2022 | Hybrid Event | Orlando, USA From: WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA <obesity@magnusconferences.org>
I am following up on our previous conversation! We went through some of your research articles and found that they fit to theme of the conference. You can give a talk related to any of the scientific sessions and can suggest a new session. For scientific session, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/program/scientific-sessions Kindly submit your abstract as per attached template as initial step for your participation. For abstract submission visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract If you require any further assistance, do let me know. We look forward to hear from you. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
She seems to get about. One day, she might even make it stateside. You never know.
She's giving me a soft reminder, which could be quite pleasant under other circumstances. Or perhaps that's just my filthy mind playing tricks on me.
But, given that this prestigious conference is filling up fast, I see no need to respond, either promptly or positively. I'm willing to take the risk.
Date: Tue, 5 Jul 2022 11:19:55 +0000
Subject: Reminder For Abstract submission : WOC 2022 | Hybrid Event | Orlando, USA
From: WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA <obesity@magnusconferences.org>
Greetings of the day. Recognizing your busy schedule, I’m sending you this email as a soft reminder of your abstract submission towards the "2nd Edition of World Obesity and Weight Management Congress (Hybrid Event)” during October 17-18, 2022 at Orlando, USA. Kindly submit your abstract as per the attached template as early as possible. For abstract submission, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract Slots for this prestigious conference are filling up fast and we don’t want you to miss out this opportunity. Anticipating a prompt and positive response from your end. Let me know if you need any assistance. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager WOC-2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA Email: obesity@magnusconference.com Phone: +1 702 988-2320 WhatsApp: +1 540 709 1879
Only a month ago slots were filling up fast. I was sure that I would miss out. But I'm in luck, as it appears that they're still accepting participants.
Given that the theme for this event is Lifting Endless Possibilities in Resilience to Obesity
—whatever the hell that's supposed to mean—I wonder if my presentation title will be a good fit? Even if not, I'm pretty sure my attendance fee will. (wink) (devil)
Date: Thu, 04 Aug 2022 10:38:16 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: Participation Reminder: WOC 2022 | October 17-18, 2022| Orlando, Florida, USA
Hope you are doing well. Since we have tried several times to reach you, and received no response from you, we take this opportunity to remind you about your participation at "2nd Edition of World Obesity and Weight Management Congress" which will be held on October 17-18, 2022 at Orlando, Florida, USA and Virtually. Kindly submit the abstract as per the attached template and confirm your participation. For abstract submission, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract Do not hesitate to contact us for any details. Looking forward to hear from you soon. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager WOC-2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA Email: obesity@magnusconference.com Phone: +1 702 988-2320 WhatsApp: +1 540 709 1879
Dear Sharon Carter Thank you for your kind reminder. I have completed a presentation on the intersection of obesity management and social media studies entitled “Body Positivity as a Deflect for Fat Fragility: the Glamour of Gluttony”. Do you think that this would be a good fit for the theme? Sincerely,
Okay, so it appears that my paean to Tess Holliday does fit within the theme of WOC-2022 after all. All I have to do is complete the template.
What the hell. I'm bored. Let's go!
Date: Thu, 04 Aug 2022 12:52:39 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: RE: Participation Reminder: WOC 2022 | October 17-18, 2022| Orlando, Florida, USA
Thank you for your quick response. The provided topic is interesting. Kindly submit your abstract as per the attached template so that after review process we will let you know the status. Feel free to contact us for any details. Looking forward to your response. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
Well, that was harder than I'd imagined. Can you understand the hopelessness of writing 250–500 words, knowing that it's going to be parsed through a brain equivalent to that of a two-year-old child? You might as well write any old shit, which is what I did effectively. Now I know how FJB's speech-writer must feel.
Still, I got this far—only 220 words—before I gave up. WOC-2022 just isn't worth pretending further.
Title: Body Positivity as a Deflect for Fat Fragility: The Glamour of Gluttony Abstract: In recent years, the ‘body positivity’ movement has sought claim to the moral and cultural high ground regarding body health and morbid obesity. Rather than accepting the medical understanding that substantiates undesirable health consequences of excess body fat, the movement maintains the status quo by proclaiming ‘fat pride’. Obesity is projected as an inevitable consequence of society’s unreasonable expectations of the individual, rather than the individual’s lack of self-restraint and self-awareness; one in which the obese individual is a victim worthy of sympathy and acceptance, rather than repulsion and ridicule. In contrast, criticism of excess body sizes being squeezed into barely-present clothing in public places is denounced as ‘fat shaming’. This pivot in health advocacy has notably been championed by oversized celebrities in public and through social media, and embraced by mainstream media outlets and public servants who are too afraid of backlash to stand up and challenge the vocal minority. In this discussion, we will cover the positive and negative aspects of the body positivity movement: from the positive impact on people’s mental health, to the true cost to their physical wellbeing. We will also discuss the cultural impact of the movement’s leading figures upon youth and other vulnerable members of society. Ultimately, we must address the question as to whether obesity advocates are simply abrogating themselves from self-control.
She thinks she's got a live one here. And she either doesn't realise, or flat-out doesn't care, that I'm ragging on the blubberbutt movement. With only two months to go, she must be desperate for participants.
I know what her response will be—the conference is also virtual—but I thought that I'd play her along and waste a little more of her time.
Date: Wed, 10 Aug 2022 10:39:43 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: Follow up for abstract: WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA
I am following up on our previous conversation. The provided topic is interesting. Kindly submit your abstract as per the attached template so that after review process we will let you know the status. To submit abstract, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract Feel free to contact us for any details. Awaits your response. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
Dear Sharon Carter It is with heavy heart that I must inform you that I will not be able to travel to Orlando in October. Best wishes for what I know will be a most successful and enlightening event.
Exactly as I predicted, Sharon thinks I'm as dumb as she is.
Date: Thu, 11 Aug 2022 12:06:33 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: Hybrid Event: WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA
Thank you for your mail. As per your concern, we would like to inform you that WOC 2022 is a Hybrid Event where you can attend the conference Online from your home or desk without travelling. Please let us know your opinion on the same. If you could attend virtually, kindly submit your abstract as per the attached sample file as positive acknowledgement. To submit abstract, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract Let me know if you need any further assistance. We look forward for your response. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
Dear Sharon Carter, Thank you for clarifying that the conference will be a hybrid event, also allowing online attendance. I think, however, that there's nothing quite like meeting your colleagues, fellow enquiring minds, to discuss the burning issues in Lifting Endless Possibilities in Resilience to Obesity face-to-face over coffee. Wouldn't you agree? Sincerely,
I never drink conference coffee. It's filthy stuff!
Sharon is more tenacious, or oblivious, than I'd given her credit for. At this point, though, I'm going to call it quits.
Date: Fri, 12 Aug 2022 12:31:20 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: Regarding your participation interest: WOC 2022 | October 17-18, 2022
Thank you for your mail. We do understand your concerns, but you can still interact with the speakers virtually, gain knowledge about updated research work in obesity and also get a chance to share your work. If you could attend virtually, kindly submit your abstract as per the attached sample file to guide you further. For abstract submission, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract For any further information feel free to contact us. Hoping to hear a positive response from you. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
The monthly whipping-in drive at Magnus Conferences sees Sharon Carter wanting to reach me regarding my abstract submission. Still, this time next month, WOC 2022 will be almost underway. So this'll be the last I hear of it. Possibly.
Date: Wed, 14 Sep 2022 09:58:04 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: Reminder for abstract: WOC 2022
I wanted to reach you regarding your abstract submission. We do understand your concerns, but you can still interact with the speakers virtually, gain knowledge about updated research work in obesity and also get a chance to share your work. If you could attend virtually, kindly submit your abstract as per the attached sample file to guide you further. For abstract submission, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract For any further information feel free to contact us. Hoping to hear a positive response from you. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
Still, this time next month, WOC 2022 will be almost underway. So this'll be the last I hear of it. Possibly.
My misplaced optimism. Dream on. It ain't all over 'til the fat lady sings; and that's not for another three weeks.
Date: Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:28:59 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2022 | Orlando, Florida, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: Follow up for abstract: WOC 2022
I haven't heard back from you since our last conversation. We do understand your concerns, but you can still interact with the speakers virtually, gain knowledge about updated research work in obesity and also get a chance to share your work. If you could attend virtually, kindly submit your abstract as per the attached sample file to guide you further. For abstract submission, please visit: https://obesityworldconference.com/submit-abstract For any further information feel free to contact us. Waiting for your response. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
WOC 2022 may well be over, but that simply allows us the opportunity to gear up for WOC 2023! Perhaps it's too early for the organisers to decide on a theme for this year's cerebral shenanigans, because Sharon has neglected it if they have. But they're going to be hard-pushed to better the already classic Lifting Endless Possibilities in Resilience to Obesity
.*
Date: Thu, 05 Jan 2023 12:51:50 +0000 (UTC) From: "WOC 2023 | Boston, Massachusetts, USA" <obesity@magnusconference.com> Subject: Invites you as a speaker: WOC 2023
Greetings from WOC 2023! After the successful completion of WOC 2022, we are pleased to invite you as a Speaker for “3rd Edition of world obesity and weight management congress” during October 16-18, 2023 at Boston, Massachusetts, USA and virtually. The main aim of this global conference is to share knowledge with all those whose interest is in the field of obesity and weight management. We are honored to have experts in obesity are gathering to speak at our conference. In the meantime, please check out our website for more details: https://obesityworldconference.com Kindly let us know your interest by providing us the title of your talk as a positive acknowledgement. We believe your voice would be a critical extension to WOC 2023 stage. Please do not hesitate to contact or mail us for any further assistance. We appreciate your time and look forward to hear from you. Regards Sharon Carter Conference Manager
* Before posting, I found the conference flyer, with the theme WEIGHT: Weighing Extraordinary Innovations and Gaining Honest Trends
. I'm not making this shit up.
Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2023 15:20:00 +0530 Subject: Invites you as a speaker: WOC 2023 From: WOC 2023 | Boston, Massachusetts, USA <obesity@magnusconferences.org>
Last month, Sharon Carter spammed me on behalf of WOC 2023. As far as I recall, this was a new campaign spewed out to her usual shitlist, of which I'm a member.
Today, I received the same message, but this time not as a virgin template-based message. Curiously enough, it's in reply to her reply of 12.08.2022 instead.
Truly, I have no idea how an Indian spambitch's mind works. (SMH)