Wilson,

You said:

"E-20: Hollywood Park Year of the Ox $8....
Wouldn't you all agree this is much neater than saying:
I neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed a Hollywood Park Year of the Ox $8"

In your example, you forgot one small (but very important) detail.

The proper plea should look like this: I neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeed a Hollywood Park Year of the Ox $8

Your way is neater, but when it comes to groveling, NEATNESS DOESN"T COUNT!

Which of the 3 above examples are you most likely to respond to?

RESULTS count!! I think, to get results, you have to be noticed, be memorable, and maybe go for a bit of sympathy, too! Now, that may work once, but to continue getting positive results, you also have to be VERY appreciative when your goal is achieved. i.e. receiving a chip that you neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeded requires a BIG THANK YOU !!

Save neatness for your chip storage.....use whatever works to get the chips you neeeeed!

(Find Jill at the convention, and give her the Harrah's birthday cake chip that she neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeds....she'll be so happy that you won't have to worry about the baseball bat ever !)