I would never suggest getting rid of something that other members enjoy. I have never played in a club BJ or Blackjack tournament ... but I would never suggest doing away with it completely. Attending banquets is not mandatory ... neither is it mandatory in keeping with the banquet theme by wearing "costumes" ... but why suggest spoiling someone else's enjoyment because it does not particularly appeal to some? There were 150 banquet attendees at this year's banquet, 30 less than last year, but still a sizeable number. I would suspect that the overwhelming majority of attendees enjoyed it... most of whom have attended previous banquets. I agree that the banquet cost should be lowered so that it is more affordable to more members ... and I suggest that the airlines reduce their airfares so that more of our club members can afford to attend our annual conventions. But that's not about to happen either.

Regarding the age of our club members ... I personally welcome each birthday. From personal observations, it is much better to stay on the grassy side than the alternative. I've been fortunate in being recognized as the club's top recruiter for several years now. Sorry that award honor given at the banquet is boring for some... or the induction of a new Hall of Fame member is "boring". I've never asked a potential new member what his/her age was. Maybe it's time for the younger generation to step up to the plate and recruit some new members closer to their age. My circle of friends are now mostly senior citizens.

As for the casino dealers who never heard of collecting casino chips, or our convention .... maybe they don't read the local newspapers either, or talk to their co-workers. Sheldon Smith worked his a$$ off doing publicity for the club this past year. The best advance publicity and most expensive publicity this club has ever had was a hallmark of this year's show ... including the club's participation in the Helldorado parade where wooden nickels were thrown to the crowd promoting our show. How many club members make club membership applications available to potential members they are speaking to ... either at their local club meetings or while playing poker?

In summation; constructive suggestions are good and should not be discouraged. Let's improve (but not diminish) other folks idea of FUN. BUT; don't leave it up to the club officers to make it all happen. Next year's 2012 convention will mark the club's 20th annual convention. The following year, 2013, will mark the club's 25th Anniversary which I'm looking forward to attending. We must have been doing something right all these years. We're ALL members of this fine organization. YOU can make happen what you are wishing for, but it takes work on everybody's part.