We've all been posting our convention experiences, and anyone who hasn't figured out by now that this hobby is about SO MUCH MORE than chips, I feel sorry for you.

I haven't thanked so many people - like the Karli's who always KEEP ME UP PAST MY BEDTIME my first night in town and let me hang out with two affectionate boxers

Thanks to Janice and Jerry O'Neal who allow me to stand in total awe at what it means to REALLY be collectors. (and for a little pre-convention shopping at the best prices in Las Vegas...)

Thanks to the entire convention committee who are nothing short of awesome.

And I can't say enough about the volunteers at the Building Fund Table who made staffing the table an effortless endeavor. I have to say it was Cindy Zoesch who stumped me in my "FAQ" list I prepared... I thought I thought of everything... but she posed a question that I couldn't answer

I enjoyed the Ladies breakfast - 12 women showed which wasn't bad for a last minute get-together. We'll do it again at the 2004 show - only maybe we can get the Riviera to help us out and set some seating aside for us.

I shared a few great meals (courtesy of the Tropicana) with Murph and Sunday Silverman. One-on-one time is always great and thanks to Murph and Sunday for having dinner with me.

As always it was a delight making new friends and meeting the people who were "just names" on the ChipBoard... and seeing the people I've met in previous years. If I start naming names, I'll get into trouble... because I can't possibly list the 100's of people I was glad to see!

Thanks to those who added special chips to my collection and for the gifts.. Lord! the gifts!! You guys are super and I'm tickled by your thoughtfulness.

I have to add a special thanks to Gene and the Palms. These guys kept giving and giving. The sudden arrival of 150 strikes at the BF table brought in a whopping $1500 in 15 minutes.

What a terriic year and terrific convention.
Am already excited for next year!

Jill Bitner
R4943