from how it looked last year i think john wasn't really looking forward to it. [overheard a conversation] but i cant really speak for him.
I'll probably go if i can get a lift
note: also funspot try to get all your pins working in the main area [was so dissapointed last year]
John is active on his own site and forum, if anyone wants to keep up with what he's got going on. But yes, between his multiple operating locations, podcasts, and vlogs (and job and family), he's plenty focused on other stuff. You won't be seeing him here.
Yes, Funspot has been lax in keeping their games and pins up, for as many years as I can remember. I just don't think they have the resources (or they don't want to spend the money, I don't know). I assume the place still makes money (as they have spent money on renovations and expansions in recent years), so I don't know why they have so many games down, and for so long.
It's still a place worth going to if you've never been there, as it is fun, and there is history there, and some great and rare games. But as an arcade, there are other places that are better maintained, with equally fun collections, IMO. (Jay's FreeplayRI is one example, as he's got some amazing stuff there now, and is still adding to it.)
I'd be all for a larger gathering at Freeplay, but folks should be aware it's going to be a different experience. Part of the point of meeting at Funspot was the surrounding area, renting cabins on the beach, enjoying the whole 'summer resort' aspect of the NH area, etc, which you aren't going to get in downtown Providence, RI. (Dave from Buffalo will have to find a new place to pee besides the lake.)
But Jay's arcade is every bit as much of a destination arcade as any other in the country IMO, especially if you haven't seen it lately. It's an impressive collection, and a nice place.