3) Are we happy with the level of annual dues? An annual convention is one of the key functions of the club -- if we are looking for ways to afford the convention, is it reasonable to increase dues to help?

Please keep in mind that a large percentage of Club members do not attend the Conventions for one reason or another. I don't think asking the entire club to bare the expense of the Convention through a dues increase is the way to go, especially when only a small percentage of members are actually able to attend.

On a much less serious note:
As for a plan B if the Riv is impolded, I recommend the Turning Stone Casino. Holding the Convention here would greatly increase the amount of members from upstate NY that attended