Steve; As President of this club, if only for just one more week, the last time I looked I still represent the entire CC>CC membership.... not just those club members who are on-line. I am deeply sorry that what I thought was personal email I sent to an individual was posted publicy on his bb. Please allow me to explain why I said what I did. First of all, I was not relying on three month old information. I checked the most recent copy of the club membership roster (April, 1999) and did not see your name or your wife's name listed as a current club member. I thought this strange that such a big comotion was being generated by some one who might not be a current club member. I made inquiry to the club Secretary late last night and he confirmed to me this morning that you had renewed your dues after the directory was published..... but that your wife, who was going to stand in line and sign up 40 players in the poker tournament is still not a member as of today June 8th, 1999.

Steve, I have a BIG problem with this plan you have undertaken unilaterally, without making advance inquiry to any of the Organizers. I publicly apologize to you for my what I had presumed were private, premature remarks regarding your club membership status. This revalation does not affect my opinion that this activity merely undermines the rules that were established and amounts to pre-registration, which was decided would not be allowed. I did say in my private email, "wouldn't it be ironic if there are not even 40 people who want to play?" I doubt that scenario would happen, but it's a possibility that must be considered. No, I'll not accept your $100 friendly wager.. the deck would be stacked against me from someone who is openly soliciting players to sign-up in advance of the official time that has been established for that purpose. Like you, I too hope that the Orleans will be able to provide additional table space and dealers to make this convention activity an enjoyable event.... one that will be continued in following years .... no matter where CC>CC conventions are held in the future.

Lastly, I harbor no personal grudge against you. However, I do think that you are trying to circumvent rules that were put into place for ALL club members. Does anyone recall the big flap last year from those who got shut out from purchasing the Orleans $5 convention chips and some of the suggestions which followed that Orleans should have rationed one or two chips per customer? Well I think that Orleans should ration poker tournament seats the same way and not allow one person to buy up all the seats for a priveleged few.

That's my ante's worth. Hope my position taken has been cleared up. Looking forward to seeing y'all next week. I'll be gone after Thursday nights Annual Meeting and someone else will be charged with representing the club's membership. I've done the best I can.