Just wanted to express my thanks to everyone involved in the organization of this year's convention. Loved the location and for the way the whole shebang was run.

I did make a couple of observations though which I thought were a bit off putting: One being the auction in which I thought the auctioneer was out of line with his comments about Michael Jackson and his death. I felt that the comments and the so called jokes were totally inappropriate. Also I could not understand why,when a bidder's bid was missed,that the auction did not stay open,as it was not the bidders fault that his bid was missed.. There were several obviously missed bids,and the response was simply: "I missed your bid. Sorry" and then the bidding closed. I felt that this was wrong and know for a fact that it annoyed several bidders who were dismissed with said statement.

It is also unfortunate that someone who donates up to $3000 to the club by donating a painting and other items is not offered the courtesy of accommodation or traveling expenses for their time and effort and I think that next year the executive should perhaps consider a stipend to this person if he even decides to contribute again.

Those are my feelings on this. Some of you may not like or agree with me but you know I pull no punches. If I offend I am sorry. I just like to see the correct things happen.

On a positive note,it was great to see people whom I met last year and get to talk to them in more depth this year. Doug Smith and Brian Cashman in particular. I know that Doug and I had a couple of minor issues on the board earlier in the year but,after meeting with him and sharing a buffet together I find that I have a glowing respect for the man. Same with Brian and a couple of others. Shoop...your mom is a hoot! I admire the stamina! It is people like this that make it all worth while coming to the convention. The chips(to me anyway)are a bonus.

The tables treated me well this year. Won one tourney and finished 4th in another at the Orleans and did fairly well in the cash games too. Even though I was the victim of a monstrous suckout in the club tourney I had a great time(a short time....but a great one )

Now that I am almost a landowner in the USA,I hope to see you all at next year's convention.