I think many of the things that seem to surprise you, though, should be no surprise to anyone that reads the boards on a regular basis. I think it was very clear when the Building Fund morphed into the MOGH that the focus shifted somewhat due to the realities that the Building Fund committee ran into. Once they realized we were not going to get significant donations without something to draw in contributors and philanthropists, they had to adapt. They were also very up front before the exhibits were put together at the El Cortez and the Mob Museum that they were being done by the MOGH, with MOGH funds and even why the MOGH felt they were appropriate for its mission. I have no idea or comment about the propriety of the use, the structure of the MOGH, accounting concerns, etc., but I certainly knew all this was happening. I believe it was made clear on this board, the Club board and in the magazine. I can understand your concerns, but it was not done behind people's backs in secret.

As for the singular focus on a building, the change was discussed when the MOGH was being proposed and formed. In fact, it is not so much of a change, as a broadening of ambition. Personally, I think the idea of a museum is exciting and worthy, not that anyone should care what I think. The MOGH looked into what it would take to start up a museum, and I believe these projects were perfectly in line with those goals. The shift from a building to a museum happened long ago. It is a little surprising to see someone take issue with it now. If it were my money, I may completely agree with you. I don't know. But, it seems the time to question the MOGH goals was a number of years back.

Still, it's nice to see that some people care enough about the hobby to take the time to really think about what is happening with the hobby, the club, the MOGH and the building fund. I applaud all those who take the time to try to improve our hobby and to keep it viable and fun. That certainly includes the entire BOD, all of the club volunteers, those who research and share their knowledge, those who find old casino items to infuse into the hobby and all those who participate in local clubs, on the boards and in the hobby. Thank you.

Michael Siskin