This is always a fun conversation here. But, boys... this stinking horse died a while back.

1. Being able to play with the "big boys" is an opportunity.
2. Don't agree? Then try to find another group like we have with these big guns.
3. It is an open jam. Always was. But the thing that built the popularity was having the "big guys" hop in.   
4. The rules, I think you refer to (?), are common courtesy for jams.
5. The fish fry was 50% organized by the "big guys."

Now, dang it Gern, you know this stuff. Go over to Auburndale or Zephyrhills, or even Tom Henderson's in Tampa to an open jam and guess what you find:

1. People who feel comfortable playing with each other, playing with each other.
2. Same rules of courtesy.
3. People that feel surpassed keep their axe in the case.

So, there. Go ahead and fire it up. I can take it... sort of.

Take the top 10 players away from the jams and what do you have? 10 more that can play better than the next 10, etc.

Practice.