Bob,
As the organizer (and chief fundraiser) of this event, I can understand your angst.
I've been involved with many aspects of regional, national, and international gatherings for over 30 years. My gut feelings tell me that you are in fantastic shape.
My wife and I were so excited when you chose the the current venue, we invited several guests (we wouldn't have done that for the previous proposed location). Although our guests probably won't register for the PB convention, they will help fill the rooms and they will probably spend a lot of money at the resort.
. . . but the fact that they waived the food and beverage minimum for Pond Boss . . .
Send "them" pictures of members like me, and they'll know that food minimums are not going to be an issue. Send them some of the posts from the forum, and they'll know that beverage minimums are not going to be a problem either -- unless they run out.
The location is great. The facilities are great. September is great.
[I'd suggest a poll of potential attendees here on the forum, but it seems like well over half the people at the last two conventions were people who have no connection to the forum. Maybe take a poll here, and multiply by 3!]
Yes, some of the things might seem a little expensive. But, this is a very special vacation. Much better than a cruise. Much better than a week at a time-share on the edge of no-where. The total cost will still cost less than most vacations. It will be a lot more fun. And, it will give us more than a year's worth of pictures and stories to embarrass our favorite PB friends.
Ken
P.S. Advice from a Senior Citizen -- Don't Panic! It will happen -- and it will be profitable for all. We'll also be helping the economy.
