For those that don't know me, my name is Doug "Cigarman" Smith and I am current President of the

I have collected all types of casino memorabilia for 25+ years and have been a member of the for nearly 20 as well as being a life member of the club.

I recently read an issue of the Silver Strikers Club newsletter and was saddened to see that there is discussion of moving your annual convention and slot tournament so it no longer coincides with the convention.

I am even more disheartened to hear that there continues to be some animosity of Silver Strike Club members towards the which I really don't understand at all.

Ever since I have been involved with the we have done our best to work with local clubs by offering tables at the convention and meeting rooms. For many years the Silver Strikers Club took advantage of these benefits which were offered at no charge. We had articles published in our quarterly magazine that were submitted by the SSC President and I had thought we were on good terms with each other, just as we are with other local and regional clubs.

I am not really sure what happened but I don't see anything that the has done to change that relationship.

The newsletter I read seems to mention that there was a recent change in our convention policy that has caused some unrest.

Just so everyone is aware, that is absolutely not true. the only requirement we have had in the past for table holders of local clubs is that the badge holders are members and that free tables are restricted from selling items.

These rules have always existed and there are valid reasons behind them. Because those with dealer badges are allowed full access, only members with badges are allowed to be behind a table. This is a security issue as many dealers are not at their tables when the floor is not open to the public and it is unfair of neighboring tables to have concern over non members being behind a table.

Once again this is a security issue and it has always been the convention policy which is something that none of our other clubs have ever had an issue with.

However, I am not making this post to dwell on that policy.

Instead the reason for my post is to let everyone know that it is my belief that in this current economy and downturn of people collecting anything, it is more important than ever for us to work together towards the common goal of collecting.

Both clubs are in need of new and increasing membership and if we don't work together, the outcome will be detrimental to both clubs.

I sincerely hope that the and the Silver Strikers Club can work together in the future and put aside this animosity that seems to exist.

Thanks for listening,
Doug 'Cigarman" Smith
President
LM-3209-147