Newbie Tip of the Day #6 !!!!!!!!!!!!
Attend the Convention.
I can't stress enough what a joy it is to attend a convention for both new and well seasoned collectors.
I probably collected chips myself for several years before I found out about the club and the yearly convention. The first convention I attended was the last one at the old Aladdin. The very first thought that popped into my mind was WOW !!!!!!!!
Chips, Tokens and casino collectables everywhere, as far as the eye can see. If your looking for something in particular, the convention is the place to find it, or at least the people who know where to find it.
Then there are all the club functions starting with Greg Susongs annual Early Bird get together at the Palms. This function gets bigger and bigger every year and is a great way to meet fellow chippers. How about professionally run club Poker and Blackjack tournaments which are first class.
Then there are the seminars which seem to get better every year and have a variety of fantastic information for collectors at every level.
The Banquet is always a blast and whether you choose a table with other friends or just sit with people you never met, you are sure to have a great time and meet new people.
On a side note, I personally dont usually care for the food, but that's not why I come to the banquet anyway.....
Trade Sessions, Trade Sessions and More Trade Sessions. The trading rooms are always full of others that love to trade chips. This is a great way to get rid of your extras and add new chips to your collection without any cost.
How about the club auction? Great deals to be had the last few years and something you dont want to miss.
However the number one reason I go to the convention every year is the people. I have made literally thousands of chipper friends over the years. Many of them live far away from me and although I speak with them every once in a while by email or on the chip board, the convention is where we meet. I remember back to my first convention where I finally met in person dozens of people I had known for years thru mail trades but never met in person. Its the one time a year where you and your friends can get together for dinner, a drink at the Splashbar, or just to talk chips.
The people is the reason everyone should go. To meet your old friends as well as make new ones. You can meet face to face with some of the most important and influential people in our hobby. Meet the authors of the books you use all the time. The convention is a perfect place to ask questions and get answers as the amount of knowledge on the bourse floor is unimaginable !!!!!
I have just attended my 9th convention is a row and cant imagine EVER missing one. Once you experience this for yourself, you will quickly understand.
Keep your eyes and ears peeled for more Tips of the day coming tomorrow.
Doug "Cigarman" Smith
Proud member of the CC>CC LM-3209-147
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Extra! Newbie Tip of the Day - Tip # 6
