Real Trends - Gathering Of Eagles - Needs New Energy

I left the Real Trends conference on Thursday, a day early, after a snooze of a General Session. I remember in the past, exciting dialogue among competitors in the open forum and passionate debate between regulators, brokers and service providers. None of that was present at this session. I was surprised and disappointed, because the real estate industry is in such turmoil right now. There could have been great exchanges of differing opinions so attendees could form their own positions on many topics. However, this meeting was dull, at best. There were an abundance of attendees who should never have gotten past the front door. For example, there was one publisher of a real estate magazine who continually interrupted meaningful conversations to try to impose his low-class product on people who had no interest in it. I have a feeling that he was allowed in just to receive another registration fee. He was not an "Eagle" by any means. Vendors and obvious "new product" sponsors should be banned, or limited to an "exhibit hall" of sorts. They should not be allowed in the meeting sessions or cocktail and meal functions. The registrants should be monitored and limited to those people who are truly the top people in the industry. The "Eagles" have been infiltrated by numerous "vultures" and "turkeys."

Steve Murray should take the stage for half a day and state his views, knowledge and observations about the industry. He should then challenge others who may take opposing views to some debate. My registration fee would be worth it just for that session. It used to happen, but this meeting has slipped into mediocrity.

Steve, please revamp, re-energize, re-invent this gathering.