[KenProspero]

I think that all of us agree that "cards speak" is the best rule. However, the host can play whatever rules he/she wants, and declare your hand isn't isn't the worst rule we've ever seen. If 3 or 4 regulars to the game chimed in that 'declare your hand' is always the rule in this game, I'd say that the host is entitled to the pot.

However, I think your real issue is, how are disputes resolved.

In some games, the host generally resolves disputes. If, for example, this exact situation arose, and the host WAS NOT involved in the pot, I'd go with the host's ruling about what the house rules are, even if it overrides the dealer.

I've never seen a situation, though where the host IS involved in the pot and gets to also rule on the hand. Frankly, anyone who tries to do this is an ass. In this case, the decision has to be made by some party who doesn't have an interest in the pot. Whether it's the dealer, or the other regular players to the game, doesn't matter, but the host can't rule on matters where he has a direct interest.