onetess,
As a newbie I can attest to the lack of 'super-cliquey deals' going on and well it's rather quite the opposite - friendly folks, friendly faces.
Indeed I would say it's a motley crew from differing professions, locales, loyalties (to FF programs) but common thread is appreciation for tasty wines and desire to share that enjoyment amongst the FT community.
The hosts for both .5 and .0 (dl and dh) do an awesome job in corraling such a 'rowdy crowd' and add a modicum of order to the tastings.
They've also picked venues with food/service fitting for the occasions that I think everyone has been pleased with.
Sorry that you will miss .5 winedo, perhaps we'll see you at 11.0!