those planning on attending your first convention (from someone who was in your shoes only a few years ago). I have some suggestions which may come in handy, or at least are things to consider while planning your trip.

If you haven't decided on coming to the convention, I encourage you to do so. It is a lot of fun, and a chance to learn, meet other members and create great relationships, and to see almost anything having to do with casinos, Vegas, gambling etc.

Convention Tips:

1. There is a seminar for new members/first time convention attendees. This seminar occurs at the very beginning of all the festivities, and has terrific speakers, and is a great resource. The other seminars are always a nice variety and should be taken into consideration as well.

2. When you send in your registration (pre registration is a great deal-it includes freebies you won't want to miss), consider signing up for the Banquet, Poker and Blackjack Tournaments. The banquet is fun, speakers, and there is a trader session immediately afterward. The Poker and Blackjack tourneys are fun, friendly, competitive, run very professionally, and cpecial chip sets are provided to all participants. You can sign up at the lasty minute for these if there is room, but pre registering assures you an entry.

3. Bring your traders. There are many trading sessions, and there are always good folks willing to help out newbies with advice and ideas. I was given two pieces of advice my first convention trading session that I tok to heart: get appropriate carrying cases for your chips (apparetnly a plastic bag is not a good idea), also focus your collecting interest or you'll be overwhelmed.

4. Ask questions. The dealers and the other collectors short of finding their dream chip love helping out. They'll explain, they'll advise, they'll give you lots of time, and if they can't help you, they'll know who can.

5. Chip Books. There are a number of books related to the hobby and collecting. The best book(s) for you will vary on your specific interests. I have several books, and plan on getting a couple more this summer.

6. Have a plan! If there are specific chips or other items you want, check several booths before buying (or trading). IN fact I encourage you to take an overall look before settling down in one spot. I've killed a whole day at one or two booths.

7. I won't speak for Greg, but the last two years the Chipboard has sponsored a pre convention get together. If there is one this year, go. It has been a great way to meet others (especially those who you visit with everyday here). It has been on Tuesday the last two years, so it doesn't interfere with other convention activities.

8. Wear comfortable shoes and have a good bag. This is always good advice for Vegas, and the convnetion is no exception. There is always a lot of walking (I have bad legs, so I use a scooter) but for the rest of you there is a lot walking. The convention rooms are a bit of a hike from the casino, and the food court is on the other side of the casino. There are also a lot of booths, and you'll want to see all of it. Thankfully there are plenty of chairs throughout. I was given a great bag at the 2005 convention, and they are available for purchase from the club. It is well made, and holds a lot of stuff.

9. Take the time to check out the displays created by fellow members, buy a souvenir (pins, hats, shirts, etc), talk to the folks at the specialty booths. A lot of good ideas for your collection, and for enjoying the convention are available here.

10. Stop for a beverage at the Splashbar, and socialize with your fellow collectors. Be sure to say hello to me, I'm easy to pick out of a crowd.

Last but not least plan on having a great time.