Quote:
Originally Posted by adreyfus
Truth to be told, because TDA likely never ask someone else
This isn't true. The 2011 Summit was held at the Rio but the costs were too prohibitive for us to have it there in 2013. We asked multiple properties and price quotes came back at $20,000 or more. The Venetian offered to donate the conference space for two days, provide all A/V equipment (this alone is more than $5K), provide beverages and snacks, set-up crew, etc.
The TDA has never charged anything for attendees or for any services. We keep it free so that any tournament director can attend. For the first 10 years, the Board of Directors paid all expenses of the TDA. We accepted the Venetian's sponsorship in 2013 and they treated everyone like royalty. They offered to donate the services again this year.
I love the passion that posters are displaying here, but I think the people who are criticizing Matt Savage should rethink their position. We respect your right to state your opinion, but I am surprised by the personal assaults. The fact is that no other property stepped up to host us in 2015 or in the past other than in 2011 when the Rio hosted the Summit. Following the announcement yesterday, Alex Dreyfus offered to fund the Summit, so we are able to look at other options.
Many people think that the TDA is supporting the Venetian. It is actually the other way around.