Does Barry Berhman endorse barring people traveling through?

Let me take the time to reply.

I would rate Q-master's as one of the best pool halls I've played in. I WAS allowed to play in the back when I was there. I was a little miffed that I wasn't allowed to play in the tournament although I did understand the hesitancy. I didn't really understand the lack of allowing me to play even at their highest rating though. That was the only problem I had. I had my military ID and orders to NIMITC, and I had just bought a cue from Q-master's.

I was probably not good enough to win the tournament at the highest rating, but anyone who knows me knows that I just want to play the game and I don't care if I'm having to try and outrun the nuts, but again I could understand where they were coming from considering that it just HAPPENED to be the week of the US open.

I liked Q-master's I had some good conversation about cues and such with the person running the shop there and they let me look through the blue book of cues that they were selling (which is the first place that I found what my playing cue for the previous ten years was), and aside form the smoke (california player) it was great conditions.

Hopefully, a situation like mine won't happen in the future, but anyone should be understanding of it if it does.

My relating my story was just in response to the original post and hopefully will now be seen within the context that I meant it.

Jaden.
 
AzHousePro said:
Barry asked us to post the following message as part of this thread...

After reading the several pages that were posted recently about who is allowed to play my tournament and who is not allowed I wanted to clear up any confusion. It is true that we are, rightfully so concerned about who has the privilege to be part of that section of the 21,000 SF building. There are 40 other tables outside of the tournament room all covered with 860 Simonis cloth with tables that are just as nice. Everyday I go to work with one goal in mind and that is to make my business better. I believe that Q-Master Billiards has never been in better condition. One of the most important aspects of having a great room and having the ability to stay in business for 37 years is the fact that I provide the very best playing conditions for everyone. I especially look after my very loyal regulars and been since day one. There are so many that are part of the walls and have supported me for a very long time.
Until we get to know more about any new customers it is only fitting to protect and appreciate those who have earned their way into the tournament room. Whether they are C players or A+++ makes no difference. "They have paid their dues" to play in the tournament room. There is a sign above the entrance of the tournament that has been there for a very long time, that reads," This special room, is just that "very special". We only allow our very regular customers the privilege of playing in this room. Which they have earned. We have to know you. The Management team assures them they will provide tables, playing league, and tournament day and night. It takes time to be able to play in this part of Q-Masters. Please understand". This sign explains everything. Action players should appreciate the fact that we must know you before playing the tournament room. I have made a lot of wonderful changes with my staff, and they are doing a wonderful job, much better than some past employees.
As far as my Wednesday night tournament it is for locals only and it is a handicapped event from C to A+++ players. Any new residents or those who are military must be rated prior to the tournament. Unfortunately, someone who used to run the tournament dropped the ball. I have a better director who will do the right things, such as checking I.D.'s, arranging ample time prior to the tournament in order to rate any new players. It is not for players passing through town trying to pick up first place money. It is for locals who support Q-Masters or players who are new to town. I am truly sorry all of this happened and looking forward to moving ahead now that it is corrected.
I was sorry to hear that someone got pissed and I am sure that the situation could have been handled better and with the new management I have employed it will be, come in and see for yourself. We have great specials such as Military Tuesday, where the military plays for free from noon- midnight as well as a Sunday Special which allows Southside Police, State police, firefighters, and Sheriff Deputies to play for free from noon-midnight.
I have been a promoter for the game that I fell in love with in 1965 while watching me dear friend Wimpy Lassiter, when I was 19 years old. The 34th annual U.S. Open is this October.

Barry
Click to expand...

Mike
Would you pass this on to Barry:

Barry,
Many years ago (its over 30yrs ago), I traveled to the east coast and played in the Open you hosted. I didn't know you, you didn't know me, but you PERSONALLY made me feel at home. We talked then and for several years after. A couple years ago at the Super Expo you came by and visited with me. After all the thousands and thousands of players you have met it is fantastic that you remembered. Thank you for everything you have done for pool.:)
 
AzHousePro said:
Barry asked us to post the following message as part of this thread...

After reading the several pages that were posted recently about who is allowed to play my tournament and who is not allowed I wanted to clear up any confusion. It is true that we are, rightfully so concerned about who has the privilege to be part of that section of the 21,000 SF building. There are 40 other tables outside of the tournament room all covered with 860 Simonis cloth with tables that are just as nice. Everyday I go to work with one goal in mind and that is to make my business better. I believe that Q-Master Billiards has never been in better condition. One of the most important aspects of having a great room and having the ability to stay in business for 37 years is the fact that I provide the very best playing conditions for everyone. I especially look after my very loyal regulars and been since day one. There are so many that are part of the walls and have supported me for a very long time.
Until we get to know more about any new customers it is only fitting to protect and appreciate those who have earned their way into the tournament room. Whether they are C players or A+++ makes no difference. "They have paid their dues" to play in the tournament room. There is a sign above the entrance of the tournament that has been there for a very long time, that reads," This special room, is just that "very special". We only allow our very regular customers the privilege of playing in this room. Which they have earned. We have to know you. The Management team assures them they will provide tables, playing league, and tournament day and night. It takes time to be able to play in this part of Q-Masters. Please understand". This sign explains everything. Action players should appreciate the fact that we must know you before playing the tournament room. I have made a lot of wonderful changes with my staff, and they are doing a wonderful job, much better than some past employees.
As far as my Wednesday night tournament it is for locals only and it is a handicapped event from C to A+++ players. Any new residents or those who are military must be rated prior to the tournament. Unfortunately, someone who used to run the tournament dropped the ball. I have a better director who will do the right things, such as checking I.D.'s, arranging ample time prior to the tournament in order to rate any new players. It is not for players passing through town trying to pick up first place money. It is for locals who support Q-Masters or players who are new to town. I am truly sorry all of this happened and looking forward to moving ahead now that it is corrected.
I was sorry to hear that someone got pissed and I am sure that the situation could have been handled better and with the new management I have employed it will be, come in and see for yourself. We have great specials such as Military Tuesday, where the military plays for free from noon- midnight as well as a Sunday Special which allows Southside Police, State police, firefighters, and Sheriff Deputies to play for free from noon-midnight.
I have been a promoter for the game that I fell in love with in 1965 while watching me dear friend Wimpy Lassiter, when I was 19 years old. The 34th annual U.S. Open is this October.

Barry
Click to expand...
As long as your posting behrman's responses.....Where is behrman's written apology for his inappropriate and offensive remarks made at the last open tournament?
Brian
 
Last edited:
just a guess

It was probably a case of a well intentioned policy and a new or naive employee.I have had similar experiences in players rooms,they are just trying to cater to us players.What I did is smile and politey ask for the table in the back,when this didnt work I asked to talk to the manager.The manager straightened it out and I was given a good table,without having to give up a credit card,drivers licence or anything.
 
His place and it wasn't arbitrary

Barry's place and it wasn't an arbitrary decision by an employee. Standard policy and a sign up to verify that. Seems like everything was on the square. The only error was that the OP was allowed to play in the local tourney. A mistake in his favor.

Regardless of if we agree with the rules, it is Barry's place and his rules. I see some good and bad in them myself. Although I haven't seen it as a separate room before many halls have a "good ol' boys" area and you do have to earn your way into that area partially by being locally known.

I would like to thank Barry for clearing the air. Those traveling through Norfolk
can make their choices with their eyes open.

Hu



AzHousePro said:
Barry asked us to post the following message as part of this thread...

After reading the several pages that were posted recently about who is allowed to play my tournament and who is not allowed I wanted to clear up any confusion. It is true that we are, rightfully so concerned about who has the privilege to be part of that section of the 21,000 SF building. There are 40 other tables outside of the tournament room all covered with 860 Simonis cloth with tables that are just as nice. Everyday I go to work with one goal in mind and that is to make my business better. I believe that Q-Master Billiards has never been in better condition. One of the most important aspects of having a great room and having the ability to stay in business for 37 years is the fact that I provide the very best playing conditions for everyone. I especially look after my very loyal regulars and been since day one. There are so many that are part of the walls and have supported me for a very long time.
Until we get to know more about any new customers it is only fitting to protect and appreciate those who have earned their way into the tournament room. Whether they are C players or A+++ makes no difference. "They have paid their dues" to play in the tournament room. There is a sign above the entrance of the tournament that has been there for a very long time, that reads," This special room, is just that "very special". We only allow our very regular customers the privilege of playing in this room. Which they have earned. We have to know you. The Management team assures them they will provide tables, playing league, and tournament day and night. It takes time to be able to play in this part of Q-Masters. Please understand". This sign explains everything. Action players should appreciate the fact that we must know you before playing the tournament room. I have made a lot of wonderful changes with my staff, and they are doing a wonderful job, much better than some past employees.
As far as my Wednesday night tournament it is for locals only and it is a handicapped event from C to A+++ players. Any new residents or those who are military must be rated prior to the tournament. Unfortunately, someone who used to run the tournament dropped the ball. I have a better director who will do the right things, such as checking I.D.'s, arranging ample time prior to the tournament in order to rate any new players. It is not for players passing through town trying to pick up first place money. It is for locals who support Q-Masters or players who are new to town. I am truly sorry all of this happened and looking forward to moving ahead now that it is corrected.
I was sorry to hear that someone got pissed and I am sure that the situation could have been handled better and with the new management I have employed it will be, come in and see for yourself. We have great specials such as Military Tuesday, where the military plays for free from noon- midnight as well as a Sunday Special which allows Southside Police, State police, firefighters, and Sheriff Deputies to play for free from noon-midnight.
I have been a promoter for the game that I fell in love with in 1965 while watching me dear friend Wimpy Lassiter, when I was 19 years old. The 34th annual U.S. Open is this October.

Barry
Click to expand...
 
quick reply not working

Never been to Q-masters but it seams like a great place.

Rep to Barry!

The point of my earlier post is that if you make a reasonable request to most people they will try to accomidate you,or in the very least they will take the time to let you know about the policy.If you are negative,onry or just plane hard to deal with you will likely end up leaving unhappy.
 
" This special room, is just that "very special"

Barry, I read you response and this was the line that stuck out to me. "This special room, is just that "very special". How am I, a member of the United States Military, on orders from the United States Goverment, in the city where the largest Naval installation in the world is located, supposed to know that I am not welcome in the back room from reading that sign. That is very ambigous, even unremarkable. I knew it was a special place before I got there. I arrived there Monday night and was given a table in the back and played with Bill Duggan for about 4 hours. I next came in on Weds night, for the tournament I had called to sign up for at 10:00am that day, "no problem, come on down". I played in the back room until the tourney started, won the tournament, scooped up my $160 and left. I came back the very next day, ate at your grill, got a table in the back, AGAIN, and was kicked off it 10 minutes later. If you, as a business owner don't think that is kind of messed up to treat traveling military members in that fashion, than I don' t know what else to say to you. Do you really believe people come in there just to play in an 8 hour tournament to win under $200? I have paid my dues too, to this sport we all love, I'm sorry the profits from my dues never made it to your pocket, but you and your room are NOT bigger than the game and you should to pay a little more respect to your customers and military personnel who are traveling through on orders.
 
iwilleatyou said:
Barry, I read you response and this was the line that stuck out to me. "This special room, is just that "very special". How am I, a member of the United States Military, on orders from the United States Goverment, in the city where the largest Naval installation in the world is located, supposed to know that I am not welcome in the back room from reading that sign. That is very ambigous, even unremarkable. I knew it was a special place before I got there. I arrived there Monday night and was given a table in the back and played with Bill Duggan for about 4 hours. I next came in on Weds night, for the tournament I had called to sign up for at 10:00am that day, "no problem, come on down". I played in the back room until the tourney started, won the tournament, scooped up my $160 and left. I came back the very next day, ate at your grill, got a table in the back, AGAIN, and was kicked off it 10 minutes later. If you, as a business owner don't think that is kind of messed up to treat traveling military members in that fashion, than I don' t know what else to say to you. Do you really believe people come in there just to play in an 8 hour tournament to win under $200? I have paid my dues too, to this sport we all love, I'm sorry the profits from my dues never made it to your pocket, but you and your room are NOT bigger than the game and you should to pay a little more respect to your customers and military personnel who are traveling through on orders.
Click to expand...

well i am in the navy and i just arrived in norfolk about four months ago and picked up the cue again about two months ago because of q-masters.

Let me shed some recent light on this subject. At first i would just go and watch the action in the tournament room.....without anyones objection i started playing money matches and tournaments with ease.......i have not had any problems as mentioned above.....the staff at q-masters are some of the friendliest employees i have ever dealt with(no joke). they make you feel right at home especially the cute waitresses :) tables recovered before they even have to be recovered IMO.

this is one of the best entertainment spots i have ever experienced and on top of that it is a pool hall!

Ryan
 
Are you really that burned up about this scenario that you waited two years to handle it on an internet forum where the business owner in question doesn't post? I just left the military and Barry goes the extra mile to take care of military folks. It would be ridiculous to alienate a group that makes up such a large percentage of the local population. You have also failed to mention if the people working were one in the same in each of your visits. You address the entire thread to Barry and he wasn't in the building when this occured. So to answer the question, no, he doesn't endorse barring people travelling through. What he does is run a magnificent pool hall and his level best to ensure everyone has a pleasant experience. You just can't please everyone all the time.
 
iwilleatyou said:
Barry, I read you response and this was the line that stuck out to me. "This special room, is just that "very special". How am I, a member of the United States Military, on orders from the United States Goverment, in the city where the largest Naval installation in the world is located, supposed to know that I am not welcome in the back room from reading that sign. That is very ambigous, even unremarkable. I knew it was a special place before I got there. I arrived there Monday night and was given a table in the back and played with Bill Duggan for about 4 hours. I next came in on Weds night, for the tournament I had called to sign up for at 10:00am that day, "no problem, come on down". I played in the back room until the tourney started, won the tournament, scooped up my $160 and left. I came back the very next day, ate at your grill, got a table in the back, AGAIN, and was kicked off it 10 minutes later. If you, as a business owner don't think that is kind of messed up to treat traveling military members in that fashion, than I don' t know what else to say to you. Do you really believe people come in there just to play in an 8 hour tournament to win under $200? I have paid my dues too, to this sport we all love, I'm sorry the profits from my dues never made it to your pocket, but you and your room are NOT bigger than the game and you should to pay a little more respect to your customers and military personnel who are traveling through on orders.
Click to expand...
Sounds like you should just feel lucky and honored that you got to go back there the few days you weren't noticed.
 
I think you would mad too

Put yourselves in my shoes boys. It doesn't keep me up at night, my children do that, but I was pretty mad at the time by the way it was handled and couldn't believe Barry would endorse treatment of paying customers like that in his pool room. I started this post to find out if he really does that to people and I got my answer. Peace.
 
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