Just a couple of comments which may or may not fit previous posts in this thread:

1. I never play for comps. If the comps come I take those that I want and will not complain about comps I can't use... such as cruises.

2. Yes, my comps $$ value has dropped dramatically over the past couple of years but at the same time my "play" has declined and my "wins" have increased.

3. Yes, Rob, I have hit big winners in the first couple of minutes of play including quad Aces on Royal Aces Bonus and even Royals. I hit two progressive royals at Caesars ($24K Bonus and $21K Jacks) only five hands apart (but that was about 9 years ago).

4. Playing 9/5 Jacks or 8/5 Bonus the "cost" of becoming 7Stars is about $8,000 and in my case this year I scored 7Stars at a profit because of an $8,000 royal.

5. Yes, the casinos are getting skimpier with comps and this is not a new trend, and it certainly would be better if they didn't... but that's business.

6. Rob, you must also be a 7Stars player with your play... and you must also be at the highest tier at other casino companies' players clubs. And you haven't noticed what's going on with these "reward programs"? And why would you criticize others for noticing the changes? Of course, it wouldn't surprise me that you throw the players clubs mailers in the trash without opening them and you... and only you... refuse to accept free plays and fee shopping trips because they would violate your mantra not to do things that the casino wants you to do. In which case you should claim the free play and the shopping sprees and donate them to a charity.