Actually, Pokerface is a small, local business consisting of about two people. And, they aren't a middle man. The lectures were their idea- start to finish. Maybe the event could have been held at the library. But maybe it lacked certain necessary accomodations in terms of seating, equipment, etc. But you got me on the ticketMaster thing, not sure why that would have been absolutely necessary. Still, the lecturers themselves don't come free. There's hotels, meals, special audio/video equipment rentals, plane tickets. maybe they could have gotten it down to fifteen or twelve but then, aren't we splitting hairs?