Hey John,

Right on the nose!!! It has been entertaining flying these past few months... I've been searched numerous times - both at the security checkpoint and at the gate. It doesn't bother me to be searched, as they are just making sure that the people flying are safe!!!
I was talking with one gentleman while he was searching my bags, and checked my shoes - and he told me that he appreciated my kindness, as most people are not happy by being "singled out". I told him that I was glad that they are doing their job, as it is better for us all.
He went on to tell me about a guy that didn't want to be searched, and was getting a bit too obnoxious - he was told that if he didn't comply with the search, that he would not be able to get on the aircraft. He didn't comply, and the police were called - four officers escorted him away - needless to say he didn't fly!!!

The other thing that came to a surprise, which think back it should be - is that when I opened a Quizno's sandwich and noticed it was not cut in half, I took it back to the counter and asked if they could cut it for me - they told me that they were not allowed knifes and that if I wanted it cut in half, I could use one of the plastic knifes... I thought a moment, and apologized, and said that it makes since...

Flying is more entertaining since 9-11, and I'm sure we all have a few stories.
One last comment about flying, I've met some very interesting people flying across country. On one flight I was sitting next to an FBI agent, and we had some very interesting conversations. On another flight I sat next to one of the tribal council members of the Rin Con Tribe - I was very impressed with him. When he found out that I collected casino chips, he had asked if I had any from their first casino - when I replied I had, he was amazed!!! He leaned over to another Tribal Council Member and told him that this guy has some of our chips!!! They both were amazed that people collect casino chips - so we talked about the CC&GTCC for a while. I gave him my CC&GTCC Educational Director's business card and told him about the convention in Las Vegas. He indicated that he would be VERY interested in having us come down to their new casino/hotel for a convention (or show). Harrah’s is operating their new casino. May be some of us in So. Cal. can talk to them some more and try to get a show going down there...???...

I've rambled enough...

Regards,

Dick