I posted this on the Club board.
Like others, I have noticed the fall off of membership and this year saw the loss of dealers. We're getting older and not attracting enough young ones. Someone sagely said to me that youngsters are no longer collecting as we did as kids; they have their play stations, computers, etc.
I think one important step would be to get the convention back to the Strip. Don't get me wrong, I love South Point; neat hotel; good restaurants; and I understand that the Casino folk treat us very well. But what is missing is the walk ins that came when we were at the Southern strip (and even at the crumbling Riviera). Why is that important? To me, I'll never forget an antique show I went to at the Plaza in the '70's where I saw three tables showing nothing but chips and gambling stuff. I had a few chips by then and when I saw that I was hooked.
Someone said to me when I suggested that we return to the strip because of the heavy walk-ins, "They're just lookers." Could be: but lookers now, collectors later.
It costs more to get a bourse on the strip but I think it would be worth it - AND - I would not charge to see the show on any day.
Anyway at age 81 & climbing, that's my two cents.
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