Gene, During August, 2001 the Board of Directors was discussing the slabbing issue and was developing a compromise decision. During that discussion, I stated in an email to the Board of Directors on August 25, 2001 as follows:

"Frankly, the slabbers were ignored last year and packed up early. What better way to show them how the members feel about their product. If they are not allowed tables at the convention, they will certainly feel that they are making inroads."

Perhaps this gives you some additional insight into my thought process.

Nate