Belinda and I have been working on next years Convention, yesterday we received a pleasant surprise. Last year when we booked the Trop they were not able to offer us a two year contract. The Convention manager called me yesterday and said they had some dates become available and wanted to know if we have an interest in coming back. The dates they offer are May 30 - June 2. The dates at the Orleans are June 6- 9. What does everyone think about going back to the Orleans or staying at the Trop?

The pros and cons of staying at the Trop as I see them are:

Pro:

-More dealer tables. (17 more tables which adds about $5100 more revenue)
-$7000 less showroom rental expense
-We had substantially more non-member traffic at the Trop
-Strip location

Con:

-More modern facilities at the Orleans
-Dates are the week following Memorial day (may be a plus for some members)
-Minimum of $10,750 in catering (we will spend this much at either hotel)

Neutral:

-Rooms at Trop ($49 / $109) Orleans ($69 / $99)
-Staff at either hotel is easy to work with
-Food and misc charges are nearly identical
-Room comps to the Club are the same at either hotel

Please understand, we have not tried to negotiate anything with the Trop. I would try to get lower weekend room rates or possibly swap a higher weekday rate, say $59 for $99 on the weekends. Would also try to get a long term contract (at least 2 years) with the Trop. Assume everything stays as offered.

This opportunity just came available and the members of this board are some of the more active in the Club. We want your thoughts and suggestions regarding either property. This is not intended to be a vote, but more an attempt to get some ideas as to the preferences of the members of this board. We also hope some issues will be raised that maybe we have failed to consider..

Please don't hesitate to ask any questions. I'll check the board periodically this weekend and try to promptly answer any posts. Please consider all the options and try to respond based on what is best for the Club and it's future.

I appreciate your help and thoughts.

Wayne