Difference between revisions of "2023 NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas"

Latest revision as of 10:53, 22 September 2023

NASPA will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the game of Scrabble with two weeks of top-level competition in Las Vegas in July 2023 - the NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas - at the Westgate Las Vegas Resorts & Casino at 3000 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109.

The 2023 Scrabble Players Championship (SPC) - July 15 to 19, 2023 - The 32nd in a series of North American championships dating back to 1978

The 2023 WESPA Championship (WESPAC) - July 22 to 26, 2023 - The first time since 2001 that the world championship will be contested in North America.

The two championships will offer players the opportunity to play over 80 rated games of Scrabble and the flexibility to choose the events that best meet their schedule.

Live Streaming 2023 SPC Details 2023 WESPAC Details

This webpage is subject to change and will be updated regularly as the plans are finalized.

Important Dates

February 28, 2023 - End of free T-shirt with registration
May 31, 2023 - End of regular registration (base entry fee increases $50)
June 26, 2023 - End of Qualification Rating period for Scrabble Players Championship
June 30, 2023 - Close of registration (no refunds granted after this date)
July 7, 2023 - Room block closes - extension from June 30

Cutoffs effective 11:59pm Eastern time

Schedule at a Glance

This table provides a high-level summary of the key events that comprise the NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas. You can find further details on the SPC and WESPAC pages.

Date / Time	Event	Entry Fee
Fri July 14 - 10:00 to 6:00	SPC Check In	N/A
Fri July 14 - 12:00	SPC Early Bird - 4 games - NWL & CSW	$20 maximum
Sat July 15 to Wed July 19 9:00 for AM sessions / 3:00 for PM sessions	SPC Main Event - 31 games - NWL & CSW Sat to Tues - 7 games / day -- Wed - 3 games Best of 5 Playoff for top 2 in Div 1 Wed	$250
Thu July 20 - 9:30	SPC Late Bird - 4 games - NWL & CSW	$20 maximum
Thu July 20 and Fri July 21 - 2:00 to 5:00	WESPAC Check In	N/A
Fri July 21 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session	WESPAC Hearts Warmup - 8 games - NWL & CSW	$75
Fri July 21 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session	WESPAC Last Chance Qualifier - 8 games - CSW Open to those not yet qualified for WESPAC	$100
Sat July 22 to Tue July 25 9:00 for AM sessions / 2:30 for PM sessions	WESPAC Main Event - 32 games - CSW Invitational by qualification 8 games / day	$300
Sat July 22 to Mon July 24 9:00 for AM sessions / 2:30 for PM sessions	WESPAC Diamonds Challenge - 24 games - NWL & CSW 8 games / day	$180
Tue July 25 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session	WESPAC Clubs Challenge - 8 games - NWL & CSW	$60
Wed July 26 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session	WESPAC Spades Challenge - 8 games - NWL & CSW	$60
Wed July 26 - 10:00	WESPAC Finals - Best of 7 playoff for top 2 - CSW	N/A

Registration

Online registration is open now.

Lists of SPC and WESPAC registrants are available on this website and on cross-tables.com.

The rest of this section describes the general terms and conditions of registration for both championships.

Entry Fees

The base entry fees for the championships are:

$250 - SPC
$300 - WESPAC

One- and two-day events, such as Early Birds, have a separate entry fee.

Youths, defined as those whose 18th birthday is after July 15, 2023, pay 1/2 of the base entry fee for each championship.

The above fees will be increased by $50 after May 31, 2023. For example, a non-youth player signing up for the SPC on June 1, 2023, would pay $300, while a youth would pay $175.

Players accepted after the close of registration on June 30, 2023 must pay a $75 late penalty. For example, a non-youth player signing up for the SPC on July 5, 2023, would pay $375, while a youth would pay $250. Acceptance of registrants after June 30, 2023 is not guaranteed and will generally only be permitted if it does not cause a division to be uneven.

Fees payable are computed based on when (Eastern Time) funds are received in full. If you are not paying right away online at the moment when you register, please be sure to allow enough time for your mailed payment to reach us.

Commuter / Facility Fee

Players not booked IN THE ROOM BLOCK at the host hotel for the duration of multiday events - the SPC Main Event, WESPAC Main Event, and the WESPAC Diamonds Challenge - must also pay a commuter / facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum per event).

Players booked at the host hotel but outside of the room block will be subject to the commuter fee.
The commuter fee does not apply to those local to the Las Vegas (metropolitan statistical) area.

Verification of status as a hotel guest will be performed at registration/check-in and throughout the event. Players staying at the host hotel for only part of a championship must pay the full commuter fee and may then apply for a refund of $20 per day stayed at the host hotel after the conclusion of the championship, by providing the Championship Committee with hotel confirmation number and dates of stay.

Registration Form Tips

Before you click Review, make sure that all section headings are green.
If any section headings are pink, you still need to answer 1 or more questions in that section. The answer spaces for those question will be red.
Click the question mark next to a prompt for more information.
If you will be staying in the event hotel but have not yet booked a reservation, enter UNKNOWN as your confirmation code.
If you will not be attending both championships, choose Not attending event to the Can attend in-person check-in prompt for the championship that you will not be attending.
For each championship that you will be attending, choose Not attending event if you do not plan to play that event - for example, you may not play the SPC Late Bird.
For WESPAC, some events are mutually exclusive - for example:
- You cannot register for both the Hearts Challenge and Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ). Both events are on Friday, July 21st.
- If you register for the WESPAC Main Event, you cannot register for the LCQ and vice versa. If not yet qualified for WESPAC, you should register for the WESPAC challenges. If you then qualify via the LCQ, we will move your registration to the WESPAC Main Event.
Once you click Review, you will see the option to pay now via credit card or to pay later. Your payment must be received by May 31st to avoid additional fees.
If you need to change your registration, contact the Championship Committee. Do not register again.

Payment Options

You can pay at the time you register via credit card (Visa or MasterCard - US funds).

Paying After You Register

If you choose to pay later, the following options are available:

Make an online payment to NASPA - Use our Miscellaneous Payment Tool to pay via credit card. We recommend that you notify the Championship Committee so that we can mark you as paid.
Mail a check or money order (US funds) to NASPA at 48 Flamehill Road, Levittown, PA 19056
Use Interac e-Transfer to pay in Canadian funds - Contact us for current exchange rates and recipient information.
Transfer the funds via wire transfer - Contact the Championship Committee for instructions and recipient information.

Click here for more information about payment options.

Registration Changes

Registration changes are subject to the following conditions:

Scrabble Players Championship
- Division changes are subject to a $25 fee. Fee will be waived if request is sent within 24 hours of initial registration.
- After registration closes on June 30, 2023, if your request would increase the number of players who may have byes (i.e., if you would make two divisions odd or would make a smaller division odd), you will be wait listed until this is not the case.
- If your rating rises above the limit for the SPC division in which you registered, you will automatically be moved to the lowest division for which you qualify.
WESPA Championship
- If you register for the WESPA Championship but do not qualify, you will automatically be moved to the CSW division of the events being held in parallel with the WESPA Championship.
- If you register for the WESPAC Challenge events but qualify for the WESPA Championship via the Last Chance Qualifier, you will automatically be moved to the WESPA Championship.
- If you registered for the lower division of a WESPAC Challenge event and your rating rises above the limit for that division, you will automatically be moved to the higher division.

To modify your registration after you have registered, please email the organizing committee at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org.

Refunds

If you paid your tournament fees by credit card, any credit owing to you will be issued to your card; otherwise, we will mail a check to you.

All refunds are subject to a cancellation fee of $25.

If you decide you need to cancel your registration, we will refund your entry fee (and commuter fee, if applicable), if you so request by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on June 30, 2023. No refunds will be issued after this date.

To cancel your registration after you have registered, please email the organizing committee at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org.

Conditions

Rules, Code, and Terms/Conditions

By registering for the NASPA Double Down, you agree to abide by the tournament rules and NASPA Code of Conduct and and to comply with the NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas Terms and Conditions.

The Scrabble Players Championship will use the current NASPA Rules while the WESPA Championship and Challenges (Collins) will use the current WESPA Rules. WESPAC Challenges (NWL) will use the NASPA Rules.

In particular, games at this tournament - probably the highest Division 1 board without a Gibsonized player - will be annotated and/or streamed live. If you refuse to play a designated game with annotation or streaming, you will forfeit it and may at the director’s discretion be assigned a spread penalty of −200 points.

Minor Release

A signed Minor Release and Consent Form is required for all players under age 18 as of July 14, 2023. The form may be downloaded and submitted in advance or executed by a parent or guardian at registration.

Equipment Required

Participants in the NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas are responsible for bringing all equipment necessary to play in the tournament. If neither player in a game has equipment available for their game, a double forfeit may be imposed.

COVID-19 Precautions

The United States has announced it will end its national public health emergency as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic on May 11. As a result, there will be no vaccine or mask requirement at the NASPA Double Down this summer.

Please make your own health decisions, take the precautions you deem necessary, and respect the choices of others when they do not align with your own.

International players arriving by plane will also not need to show proof of vaccination to board flights destined to the United States as of May 12.

Changes

The Championship Committee reserves the right to modify the above to account for unforeseen special circumstances.

Hotel/Travel Information

Hotel Registration

The official event hotel is the Westgate Las Vegas Resorts & Casino (3000 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109).

Tournament entrants are eligible for our group rate (plus applicable taxes and fees) for King or Double accommodations:

The room rate for single or double occupancy is:
- $99/night for Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights
- $119/night for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights
Additional guests (over 2 per room) incur an additional fee of $35 per person per night. Minors (under age of 18) staying with their parents are not subject to this fee.
Standard guest rooms have a maximum of 4 guests per room.
A $30 Resort Fee (reduced from $45) will be added to the room rate per room per night. The Resort Fee includes WiFi access for up to 3 devices, Cardio Room access for up to 2 adults, use of the in-room safe, and local and toll-free domestic (800) calls.
Taxes (currently 13.38%) will be added to the room rate and Resort Fee.

The group rate is applicable for 3 days before and after the event - based on availability - July 10 through July 30, 2023.

You can book rooms:

Online at this link.
By phone at 1-800-635-7711 between the hours of 8:00 am and 11:00 pm (Eastern). Mention the Group Name (Scrabble Players Championship & World Scrabble Championship) and Code (SSPC3R).

Hotel bookings at our group rate are subject to availability within our group rate block of rooms and must be booked on or before July 7, 2023. The hotel agreed to extend the block availability from the original end date of June 30, 2023. After that date, rooms may be available at the hotel's prevailing room rates.

The hotel check-in time is 3:00 pm - guests arriving early will be accommodated as rooms become available. Hotel checkout time is 11:00 am.

As noted above, players not booked IN THE ROOM BLOCK at the host hotel for the duration for the duration of multiday events - the SPC Main Event, WESPAC Main Event, and the WESPAC Diamonds Challenge - must also pay a commuter/facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum per event).

Hotel and Event Parking

Self parking is free at the Westgate Resort.

Exploring Las Vegas

Las Vegas has something for everyone. Although it is famous for being one of the most exciting nightlife destinations, Las Vegas is also full of options for people of all ages. From amazing museums, shows, and interactive activities to world-renowned restaurants and hotels, Vegas has it all.

Read more about what Las Vegas has to offer here.

The Westgate Resort is located just off the Las Vegas Strip and includes an onsite Monorail station for easy access to nearby shows, casinos, and attractions.

Barry Manilow will be in residence at the Westgate Resort during the NASPA Double Down - July 13 to 15 and July 20 to 22. Find out more and buy tickets here.

Scrabble Civilians, Unite!

Believe it or not - not everyone coming to the NASPA Double Down will be playing Scrabble all day!

We invite the spouses, friends, and family of players to meet up in the Ballroom Foyer each morning at 10 AM and seek adventure together - hopping the Monorail to visit the other hotels, grabbing lunch, exploring the many attractions, lounging by the pool, or even going to the Grand Canyon.

Las Vegas Monorail

The Las Vegas Monorail provides a quick and reliable transportation alternative for leisure and business travelers on the Las Vegas Strip. Directly connected to several Strip resort hotels as well as the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Monorail is the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to get from one end of the Strip to the other in just minutes. Trains arrive every few minutes at seven stations:

MGM Grand Station
Horseshoe/Paris Las Vegas Station
Flamingo/Caesars Palace Station
Harrah’s/TheLINQ Station
Boingo Station at Las Vegas Convention Center Station
Westgate Las Vegas Station
SAHARA Las Vegas Station

The system is open 7 a.m. to Midnight Monday, 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. Friday through Sunday. 

Take Advantage of Monorail Discounts for the NASPA Double Down!

Make sure to purchase your discounted tickets at https://tix.lvmonorail.com/NASPA23 – for the best rates available. Paper tickets purchased at ticket vending machines and customer service desks on Monorail stations are full price.

Skip the line and scan your phone right at the gate. Use the Monorail to travel the Strip without the hassles of traffic and wasted time. In minutes, Monorail riders can travel the Las Vegas Strip in a safe, clean, and climate-controlled environment.

Airport Information

Las Vegas, NV, is served by the Harry Reid International Airport. As of June 2022, the airport has more than 1050 inbound and outbound flights per day and direct service to nearly 150 US and international cities.

The airport is located 3.5 miles from the Westgate Resort - with numerous taxi and shuttle services that are easy to pre-book or catch right outside the terminal.

Lyft and Uber service is also available at the airport - with a typical ride cost of $15 to $20.

Traveling From Outside the United States

Players traveling to the NASPA Double Down from outside the United States may require a visitor visa to enter the United States.

It is your responsibility to determine if you need a visitor visa or other documentation. Contact the Championship Committee if you need an invitation letter to support your application process.

Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries can list the NASPA Double Down director, Art Moore (P.O. Box 1217, Ocoee, FL 34761), as the US Point of Contact on the ESTA application.

Note that as of May 12, 2023, international players arriving by plane will not need to show proof of vaccination to board flights destined to the United States.

Roommate Wanted

If you need a roommate and would like a listing here, please complete the 2023 NASPA Double Down Roommate Request Form.

Tijan (TJ) Jeng is seeking a male roommate to share a room at the Westgate from 7/14 to 7/18. You can reach TJ by email (papelie234@gmail.com) or by phone (443-562-3890).

Charlene White is seeking a female roommate to share a room at the Westgate from 7/14 to 7/19. Charlene has a double room reserved. You can reach Charlene by phone (917-349-7599) or email (cwhite@dot.nyc.gov).

IMPORTANT: When you get your roommate, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.

Ride Wanted

If you need a ride/rider to or from the tournament, and would like a listing here, please complete the NASPA Double Down Ride Request Form.

IMPORTANT: When you get your ride/rider, please contact the committee so we can remove your request.

Donors

Thanks to WESPA for its donation to the WESPA Championship.

If you are interested in donating prizes to events at the NASPA Double Down or otherwise supporting the championship, please email us at nsc@scrabbleplayers.org.

Vendors

If you have a product to sell to Scrabble players, this is the place to do it. Hundreds of the most avid fans of the game will be in one place with money ready to spend at your table.

To become a vendor, print out, date and sign two (2) copies of the NASPA 2023 Vendor Agreement and send both executed copies to Art Moore via email or postal mail (P.O. Box 1217, Ocoee, FL 34761) along with the required payment if you want more than a half table of exhibit space.

If you have questions about becoming a vendor, please contact the Championship Committee.

Staff

Director: Art Moore
Assistant to the Director: Diane Moore
Webmaster: John Chew

Volunteers

Volunteers are needed to assist with set up, registration, and tear down. Volunteers receive a free event T-shirt. Sign up here.

Further Information

This page will be updated as the event draws nearer. If you have urgent questions about the event, please email the Championship Committee.

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-[[File:Westgate_Picture.jpg|center|620px]]
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+</style>
+{|class=dd_header
+|
+<br>
+[[File:dd2023-256px.png]]
+|class=statement|
 NASPA will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the game of Scrabble with two weeks of top-level competition in Las Vegas in July 2023 - the '''NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas''' - at the Westgate Las Vegas Resorts & Casino at 3000 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109.
-* The [[2023 Scrabble Players Championship (SPC)]] - July 15 to 19, 2023 - The 32nd in a series of North American championships dating back to 1978
+*The '''[[2023 Scrabble Players Championship (SPC)]]''' - July 15 to 19, 2023 - The 32nd in a series of North American championships dating back to 1978
-* The [[2023 WESPA Championship (WESPAC)]] - July 22 to 26, 2023 - The first time since 2001 that the world championship will be contested in North America.
 <br>
+*The '''[[2023 WESPA Championship (WESPAC)]]''' - July 22 to 26, 2023 - The first time since 2001 that the world championship will be contested in North America.
+<br>
+The two championships will offer players the opportunity to play over 80 rated games of Scrabble and the flexibility to choose the events that best meet their schedule.
+|}
+<!--
 <a target=_new href="http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/register.pl" style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">Register</a>
+<a target=_new href="http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/nsc" style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">LIVE RESULTS</a>
 <a target=_new href="https://book.passkey.com/go/SSPC3R" style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">Book Hotel</a>
-<a target=_new href=2023 Scrabble Players Championship(SPC) style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">2023 SPC Details</a>
+<a target=_new href="https://scrabble.formstack.com/forms/doubledown23" style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">Feedback</a>
-<a target=_new href=2023 WESPA Championship (WESPAC) style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">2023 WESPAC Details</a>
+-->
+<a target=_new href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH44AjFtBIqRRLv-Yr6jRBg" style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">Live Streaming</a>
-The two championships will offer players the opportunity to play over 80 rated games of Scrabble and the flexibility to choose the events that best meet their schedule.
+<a target=_new href="https://www.scrabbleplayers.org/w/2023_Scrabble_Players_Championship_(SPC)" style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">2023 SPC Details</a>
+<a target=_new href="https://www.scrabbleplayers.org/w/2023_WESPA_Championship_(WESPAC)" style="display:inline-block;color:white;background-color:#3e4e97;padding:6px;font-weight:bold;border:solid 1px #cccccc">2023 WESPAC Details</a>
 '''This webpage is subject to change and will be updated regularly as the plans are finalized.'''
@@ Line 19: / Line 39: @@
 * May 31, 2023 - End of regular registration (base entry fee increases $50)
 * June 26, 2023 - End of Qualification Rating period for Scrabble Players Championship
-* June 30, 2023 - Room block closes
 * '''June 30, 2023''' - Close of registration (no refunds granted after this date)
+* July 7, 2023 - Room block closes - extension from June 30
 <br>
 ''Cutoffs effective 11:59pm Eastern time''
@@ Line 72: / Line 92: @@
 |-
 |class= date|Fri July 21 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session
-|class= event|WESPAC Early Bird - 8 games - NWL & CSW
+|class= event|WESPAC Hearts Warmup - 8 games - NWL & CSW
 |class= fee|$75
 |-
@@ Line 91: / Line 111: @@
 |class= fee|$300
 |-
-|class= date|Wed July 26 - 10:00
+|class= date|Sat July 22 to Mon July 24
-|class= event|WESPAC Finals - Best of 7 playoff for top 2 - CSW
-|class= fee|N/A
-|-
-|class= date|Sat July 22 to Sun July 23
 <br>
 :00 for AM sessions / 2:30 for PM sessions
-|class= event|WESPAC Diamonds Challenge - 16 games - NWL & CSW
+|class= event|WESPAC Diamonds Challenge - 24 games - NWL & CSW
 <br>
 games / day
-|class= fee|$120
+|class= fee|$180
 |-
-|class= date|Mon July 24 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session
+|class= date|Tue July 25 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session
 |class= event|WESPAC Clubs Challenge - 8 games - NWL & CSW
-|class= fee|$60
-|-
-|class= date|Tue July 25 - 9:00 for AM session / 2:30 for PM session
-|class= event|WESPAC Hearts Challenge - 8 games - NWL & CSW
 |class= fee|$60
 |-
@@ Line 114: / Line 126: @@
 |class= event|WESPAC Spades Challenge - 8 games - NWL & CSW
 |class= fee|$60
+|-
+|class= date|Wed July 26 - 10:00
+|class= event|WESPAC Finals - Best of 7 playoff for top 2 - CSW
+|class= fee|N/A
 |}
@@ Line 120: / Line 136: @@
 [http://scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/register.pl Online registration] is open now.
-Lists of [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/reglist.pl?event=NSC2022 SPC] and [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/reglist.pl?event=WESPAC2023 WESPAC]  registrants are available on this website and on cross-tables.com.
+Lists of [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/reglist.pl?event=NSC2023 SPC] and [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/reglist.pl?event=WSC2023 WESPAC]  registrants are available on this website and on cross-tables.com.
 The rest of this section describes the general terms and conditions of registration for both championships.
@@ Line 137: / Line 153: @@
 The above fees will be increased by $50 after May 31, 2023. For example, a non-youth player signing up for the SPC on June 1, 2023, would pay $300, while a youth would pay $175.
-Players accepted after the close of registration on June 30, 2023 must pay a $75 late penalty. For example, a non-youth player signing up for the SPC on July 5, 2023, would pay $375, while a youth would pay $250.  Acceptance of registrants after June, 2023 is not guaranteed and will generally only be permitted if it does not cause a division to be uneven.
+Players accepted after the close of registration on June 30, 2023 must pay a $75 late penalty. For example, a non-youth player signing up for the SPC on July 5, 2023, would pay $375, while a youth would pay $250.  Acceptance of registrants after June 30, 2023 is not guaranteed and will generally only be permitted if it does not cause a division to be uneven.
 Fees payable are computed based on when (Eastern Time) funds are received in full. If you are not paying right away online at the moment when you register, please be sure to allow enough time for your mailed payment to reach us.
-=== Commuter Fee ===
+=== Commuter / Facility Fee ===
-'''Players not booked IN THE ROOM BLOCK at the host hotel for the duration of the SPC and/or WESPAC must also pay a commuter/facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum per championship).'''
+'''Players not booked IN THE ROOM BLOCK at the host hotel for the duration of multiday events - the SPC Main Event, WESPAC Main Event, and the WESPAC Diamonds Challenge - must also pay a commuter / facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum per event).'''
 *Players booked at the host hotel but outside of the room block will be subject to the commuter fee.
@@ Line 149: / Line 165: @@
 <br>
 Verification of status as a hotel guest will be performed at registration/check-in and throughout the event.  Players staying at the host hotel for only part of a championship must pay the full commuter fee and may then apply for a refund of $20 per day stayed at the host hotel after the conclusion of the championship, by providing the Championship Committee with hotel confirmation number and dates of stay.
+=== Registration Form Tips ===
+* Before you click Review, make sure that all section headings are <span style="color:Green;">green</span>.
+* If any section headings are <span style="color:Pink;">pink</span>, you still need to answer 1 or more questions in that section. The answer spaces for those question will be <span style="color:Red;">red</span>.
+* Click the question mark next to a prompt for more information.
+* If you will be staying in the event hotel but have not yet booked a reservation, enter UNKNOWN as your confirmation code.
+* If you will not be attending both championships, choose ''Not attending event'' to the ''Can attend in-person check-in'' prompt for the championship that you will not be attending.
+* For each championship that you will be attending, choose ''Not attending event'' if you do not plan to play that event - for example, you may not play the SPC Late Bird.
+* For WESPAC, some events are mutually exclusive - for example:
+** You cannot register for both the Hearts Challenge and Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ). Both events are on Friday, July 21st.
+** If you register for the WESPAC Main Event, you cannot register for the LCQ and vice versa. If not yet qualified for WESPAC, you should register for the WESPAC challenges. If you then qualify via the LCQ, we will move your registration to the WESPAC Main Event.
+* Once you click Review, you will see the option to pay now via credit card or to pay later. Your payment must be received by May 31st to avoid additional fees.
+* If you need to change your registration, contact the Championship Committee. Do not register again.
+=== Payment Options ===
+You can pay at the time you register via credit card (Visa or MasterCard - US funds).
+====Paying After You Register====
+If you choose to pay later, the following options are available:
+* Make an online payment to NASPA - Use our [http://www.scrabbleplayers.org/cgi-bin/quickpay.pl Miscellaneous Payment Tool] to pay via credit card. We recommend that you notify the [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org Championship Committee] so that we can mark you as paid.
+* Mail a check or money order (US funds) to NASPA at 48 Flamehill Road, Levittown, PA 19056
+* Use Interac e-Transfer to pay in Canadian funds - Contact [mailto:info@scrabbleplayers.org us] for current exchange rates and recipient information.
+* Transfer the funds via wire transfer - Contact the [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org Championship Committee] for instructions and recipient information.
+<br>
+Click [[Payment | here]] for more information about payment options.
 === Registration Changes ===
@@ Line 160: / Line 203: @@
 * ''WESPA Championship''
 ** If you register for the WESPA Championship but do not qualify, you will automatically be moved to the CSW division of the events being held in parallel with the WESPA Championship.
+** If you register for the WESPAC Challenge events but qualify for the WESPA Championship via the Last Chance Qualifier, you will automatically be moved to the WESPA Championship.
+** If you registered for the lower division of a WESPAC Challenge event and your rating rises above the limit for that division, you will automatically be moved to the higher division.
 <br>
-To modify your registration after you have registered, please email the organizing committee at [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org nsc@scrabbleplayers.org].
+'''To modify your registration after you have registered, please email the organizing committee at [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org nsc@scrabbleplayers.org].'''
 === Refunds ===
@@ Line 170: / Line 215: @@
 If you decide you need to cancel your registration, we will refund your entry fee (and commuter fee, if applicable), if you so request by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on '''June 30, 2023'''. No refunds will be issued after this date.
+'''To cancel your registration after you have registered, please email the organizing committee at [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org nsc@scrabbleplayers.org].'''
 == Conditions ==
 === Rules, Code, and Terms/Conditions ===
-By registering for the NASPA Double Down, you agree to abide by the NASPA Tournament [[Rules]] and [[Code of Conduct]] and to comply with the [[NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas Terms and Conditions]].
+By registering for the NASPA Double Down, you agree to abide by the tournament rules and NASPA [[Code of Conduct]] and and to comply with the [[NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas Terms and Conditions]].
+The Scrabble Players Championship will use the current [[Official Tournament Rules | NASPA Rules]] while the WESPA Championship and Challenges (Collins) will use the current [https://www.wespa.org/wesparulesv4.pdf WESPA Rules]. WESPAC Challenges (NWL) will use the NASPA Rules.
 In particular, games at this tournament - probably the highest Division 1 board without a Gibsonized player - will be annotated and/or streamed live. If you refuse to play a designated game with annotation or streaming, you will forfeit it and may at the director&rsquo;s discretion be assigned a spread penalty of &minus;200 points.
 === Minor Release ===
-A signed [[Media:Minor_Consent_and_Release_2023.pdf | Minor Release and Consent Form]] is required for all players under age 18 as of July 15, 2023. The form may be downloaded and submitted in advance or executed by a parent or guardian at registration.
+A signed [[Media:Minor_Consent_and_Release_2023.pdf | Minor Release and Consent Form]] is required for all players under age 18 as of July 14, 2023. The form may be downloaded and submitted in advance or executed by a parent or guardian at registration.
 === Equipment Required ===
@@ Line 185: / Line 234: @@
 === COVID-19 Precautions ===
-In accordance with current [https://www.cdc.gov/ CDC] (Centers for Disease Control) recommendations, the following precautions against COVID-19 will be in effect at the NASPA Double Down in Las Vegas:
+The United States has announced it will end its national public health emergency as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic on May 11. '''As a result, there will be no vaccine or mask requirement at the NASPA Double Down this summer.'''
-* All participants must be fully vaccinated as defined by the CDC – that is, they have completed a government-authorized course of vaccination against COVID-19 and waited the recommended duration for it to take full effect. We recommend, but do not require, that participants are up-to-date with vaccinations – that is, have received all recommended boosters. Participants will need to provide proof of vaccination at registration.
+Please make your own health decisions, take the precautions you deem necessary, and respect the choices of others when they do not align with your own.
-*Masks will be required in the playing room and common areas during play and at the prize ceremony and finals viewing.
+International players arriving by plane will also not need to show proof of vaccination to board flights destined to the United States as of May 12.
-*Masks will be optional at social events, such as the Welcome Dinner, Trivia Contest, and the Evening Musicale. We encourage participants to assess their own personal level of risk and wear a mask if desired.
-* Masks should cover both the nose and mouth. Acceptable masks include disposable surgical and KN95 masks. Unacceptable masks include gaiters, bandanas, and face shields.
-*Any participants showing symptoms may be asked to leave.
-<br/>
-We will continue to evaluate the situation and may adjust the policy as conditions warrant.
 === Changes ===
@@ Line 206: / Line 246: @@
 == Hotel/Travel Information ==
+[[File:Westgate_Picture.jpg|640px|link=https://book.passkey.com/event/50447307/owner/3453/home]]
 === Hotel Registration ===
@@ Line 213: / Line 254: @@
 Tournament entrants are eligible for our group rate (plus applicable taxes and fees) for King or Double accommodations:
 * The room rate for single or double occupancy is:
-** $99/night for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights
+** $99/night for Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights
 ** $119/night for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights
 * Additional guests (over 2 per room) incur an additional fee of $35 per person per night. Minors (under age of 18) staying with their parents are not subject to this fee.
@@ Line 226: / Line 267: @@
 * By phone at 1-800-635-7711 between the hours of 8:00 am and 11:00 pm (Eastern). Mention the Group Name (Scrabble Players Championship & World Scrabble Championship) and Code (SSPC3R).
 <br>
-'''Hotel bookings at our group rate are subject to availability within our group rate block of rooms and must be booked on or before June 30, 2023.'''  After that date, rooms may be available at the hotel's prevailing room rates.
+'''Hotel bookings at our group rate are subject to availability within our group rate block of rooms and must be booked on or before July 7, 2023.'''  The hotel agreed to extend the block availability from the original end date of June 30, 2023. After that date, rooms may be available at the hotel's prevailing room rates.
 The hotel check-in time is 3:00 pm - guests arriving early will be accommodated as rooms become available. Hotel checkout time is 11:00 am.
+As noted [[#Commuter Fee|above]], players not booked IN THE ROOM BLOCK at the host hotel for the duration for the duration of multiday events - the SPC Main Event, WESPAC Main Event, and the WESPAC Diamonds Challenge - must also pay a commuter/facility fee of $20 per day ($100 maximum per event).
 === Hotel and Event Parking ===
@@ Line 236: / Line 279: @@
 === Exploring Las Vegas ===
-Las Vegas has something for everyone. Although it is famous for being one of the most exciting nightlife destinations, Las Vegas is also full of options for people of all ages. From amazing museums, shows, and interactive activities to world-renowned restaurants and hotels, Vegas has it all. Read more about what Las Vegas has to offer [https://www.visitlasvegas.com/ here].
+Las Vegas has something for everyone. Although it is famous for being one of the most exciting nightlife destinations, Las Vegas is also full of options for people of all ages. From amazing museums, shows, and interactive activities to world-renowned restaurants and hotels, Vegas has it all.
+* [[Media:Family Friendly Vegas Insider Guide.pdf |Family Friendly Vegas Insider Guide]]
+* [[Media:Free Attractions Vegas Insider Guide.pdf|Free Attractions Vegas Insider Guide]]
+* [[Media:Sports Town Vegas Insider Guide.pdf|Sports Town Vegas Insider Guide]]
+* [[Media:Top Attractions Vegas Insider Guide.pdf |Top Attractions Vegas Insider Guide]]
+<br>
+Read more about what Las Vegas has to offer [https://www.visitlasvegas.com/ here].
-The Westgate Resort is located just off the Las Vegas Strip and includes an onsite [https://www.lvmonorail.com Monorail] station for easy access to nearby shows, casinos, and attractions.
+The Westgate Resort is located just off the Las Vegas Strip and includes an onsite [https://tix.lvmonorail.com/NASPA23 Monorail] station for easy access to nearby shows, casinos, and attractions.
 '''Barry Manilow''' will be in residence at the Westgate Resort during the NASPA Double Down - July 13 to 15 and July 20 to 22. Find out more and buy tickets [https://www.westgateresorts.com/hotels/nevada/las-vegas/westgate-las-vegas-resort-casino/barry-manilow-2023-concert-tour/ here].
+=== Scrabble Civilians, Unite! ===
+Believe it or not - not everyone coming to the NASPA Double Down will be playing Scrabble all day!
+We invite the spouses, friends, and family of players to meet up in the Ballroom Foyer each morning at 10 AM and seek adventure together - hopping the Monorail to visit the other hotels, grabbing lunch, exploring the many attractions, lounging by the pool, or even going to the Grand Canyon.
+=== Las Vegas Monorail ===
+<gallery>
+File:Monorail.jpg
+File:Monorail_2.jpg
+File:Monorail_Station.jpg
+File:Monorail_Map.jpg
+</gallery>
+The Las Vegas Monorail provides a quick and reliable transportation alternative for leisure and business travelers on the Las Vegas Strip. Directly connected to several Strip resort hotels as well as the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Monorail is the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to get from one end of the Strip to the other in just minutes. Trains arrive every few minutes at seven stations:
+* MGM Grand Station
+* Horseshoe/Paris Las Vegas Station
+* Flamingo/Caesars Palace Station
+* Harrah’s/TheLINQ Station
+* Boingo Station at Las Vegas Convention Center Station
+* '''Westgate Las Vegas Station'''
+* SAHARA Las Vegas Station
+<br/>
+The system is open 7 a.m. to Midnight Monday, 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. Friday through Sunday.
+'''Take Advantage of Monorail Discounts for the NASPA Double Down!'''
+Make sure to purchase your discounted tickets at [https://tix.lvmonorail.com/NASPA23 https://tix.lvmonorail.com/NASPA23] – for the best rates available.  Paper tickets purchased at ticket vending machines and customer service desks on Monorail stations are full price.
+Skip the line and scan your phone right at the gate. Use the Monorail to travel the Strip without the hassles of traffic and wasted time. In minutes, Monorail riders can travel the Las Vegas Strip in a safe, clean, and climate-controlled environment.
 === Airport Information ===
@@ Line 255: / Line 337: @@
 It is your responsibility to determine if you need a visitor visa or other documentation. Contact the [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org Championship Committee] if you need an invitation letter to support your application process.
+Nationals of Visa Waiver Program countries can list the NASPA Double Down director, Art Moore (P.O. Box 1217, Ocoee, FL 34761), as the US Point of Contact on the [https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/ ESTA application].
+Note that as of May 12, 2023, international players arriving by plane will not need to show proof of vaccination to board flights destined to the United States.
 === Roommate Wanted ===
-If you need a roommate and would like a listing here, please complete the [https://scrabble.formstack.com/forms/SPC_Roommate_Request SPC Roommate Request Form].
+If you need a roommate and would like a listing here, please complete the [https://scrabble.formstack.com/forms/SPC_Roommate_Request 2023 NASPA Double Down Roommate Request Form].
+'''Tijan (TJ) Jeng''' is seeking a male roommate to share a room at the Westgate from 7/14 to 7/18. You can reach TJ by email (papelie234@gmail.com) or by phone (443-562-3890).
+'''Charlene White''' is seeking a female roommate to share a room at the Westgate from 7/14 to 7/19. Charlene has a double room reserved. You can reach Charlene by phone (917-349-7599) or email (cwhite@dot.nyc.gov).
 IMPORTANT: When you get your roommate, please contact the committee so we can remove your listing.
@@ Line 264: / Line 354: @@
 === Ride Wanted ===
-If you need a ride/rider to or from the tournament, and would like a listing here, please complete the [https://scrabble.formstack.com/forms/SPC_ride_request SPC Ride Request Form].
+If you need a ride/rider to or from the tournament, and would like a listing here, please complete the [https://scrabble.formstack.com/forms/SPC_ride_request NASPA Double Down Ride Request Form].
 IMPORTANT: When you get your ride/rider, please contact the committee so we can remove your request.
@@ Line 270: / Line 360: @@
 == Sponsors ==
+* [https://markmywordsgame.com/#/ Mark My Words]
+* [https://www.scopely.com/en/games/scrabble-go Scopely Scrabble GO]
+<br/>
 For information about sponsorship opportunities at
 the championship, please contact the [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org Championship Committee].
+== Donors ==
+Thanks to [https://www.wespa.org/index.shtml WESPA] for its donation to the WESPA Championship.
+If you are interested in donating prizes to events at the NASPA Double Down or otherwise supporting the championship, please email us at [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org nsc@scrabbleplayers.org].
 == Vendors ==
@@ Line 277: / Line 376: @@
 If you have a product to sell to Scrabble players, this is the place to do it. Hundreds of the most avid fans of the game will be in one place with money ready to spend at your table.
-To become a vendor, print out, date and sign two (2) copies of the [[Media:NASPA_2023_Vendor_Agreement.pdf|NASPA 2023 Vendor Agreement]] and send both executed copies to Art Moore, P.O. Box 1217, Ocoee, FL 34761, along with the required payment for extra tables, if you wish to exhibit on more than one table.
+To become a vendor, print out, date and sign two (2) copies of the [[Media:2023_Vendor_Agreement.pdf|NASPA 2023 Vendor Agreement]] and send both executed copies to Art Moore via [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org email] or postal mail (P.O. Box 1217, Ocoee, FL 34761) along with the required payment if you want more than a half table of exhibit space.
 If you have questions about becoming a vendor, please contact the [mailto:nsc@scrabbleplayers.org Championship Committee].
@@ Line 304: / Line 403: @@
 == Volunteers ==
-Volunteers are needed to assist with set up, registration, and tear down.  Volunteers receive a free event T-shirt.  [https://scrabble.formstack.com/forms/NASPA_2023_volunteer Sign up here.]
+Volunteers are needed to assist with set up, registration, and tear down.  Volunteers receive a free event T-shirt.  [https://scrabble.formstack.com/forms/spc_volunteer Sign up here.]
 == Further Information ==

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