Doug said:

"For example a wine and cheese reception would not meet the requirements unless our expenditures were in the same range. That means we would be paying the same amount and be able to offer less"

With all do respect Mr. President, I do not understand this statement. If you charge $45.00 for a wine & cheese and provide quality fruit and quality cheese, rolls, ET AL (and do not run out) how are you offering less? I am sure from the input I have received individuals would rather eat an excellent variety of fruit and cheese than low quality meat, salads and other unappetising offerings.

In addition, the theme concept is getting a little old. The original gathering was a trade session paid for by dealers. It was to be fun and was fun. This banquet routine, in my opinion, has run the course. I believe attendance will demonstrate what I have said to be true.
Perlowski