The Rio and Harrahs has brought the WSOP into the 21st century and I think that is a good thing.
BUT:
Nothing can replace working with and near The Shoe, the Characters, the pomp, etc for over 15 years. Crandall was only one of many in a long line of characters. Puggy and Slim were tied for the title "THE Character." There is nothing like living the story.
I remember when Frank Cutrona ran the WSOP from his office in the Golden Nugget because Jack Binion had him barred from the Shoe.

The Four Queens satellited in more players into the WSOP than all other places put together from 1982 up until 1996 when I left. One year we satellited in over 30. I don't remember the field that year but it was under 180 for sure.

The internet has busted that record and once again I think thats a good thing.
Good memories of what used to be is also a good thing.

"Shuffle Up And Deal" on day one and again before the start of the big one was always music to my ears.