On Mar 3, 2017, at 12:20 PM, Kelly Leavitt via vcf-midatlantic <vcf-midatlantic@lists.vintagecomputerfederation.org> wrote:
My opinion on auctions is a resounding NO.
After years of "running" the consignment area, the people coming there are not interested in spending money (except for Ian).
I've seen great items, with reasonable but high prices go unsold because they were priced at more than a dollar or two.
Hams are cheap, but VCF nerds make them look like big spenders.
Maybe if we took the time to advertise it, have some key items, and were allowed set minimums then yes, but that would have to be a dedicated job for someone. Not something else to dump on the folks running the show.
Just my $0.02.
Kelly
I think Kelly hits a good point and one I was talking to someone off list about. I'm thinking more outside of just VCF east proper too. If we can get a corporate sponsor or a private donor to donate an item etc to help raise funds (for example we had one of the largest national angler organizations donate a 17' boat with motor for us to raffle to raise money) that's when you start seeing significant dollars come in. It simply opens up a world of opportunities that are not otherwise available. As for spending money at VCF, I would certainly defer to Kelly's experience and have seen the same in my limited time attending VCF east (only the last three years) However, with advance notice/promotion and the right items I firmly believe it could work. All depends on the circumstances and the items available. I know if I saw something of value was going to be made available and I wanted it id be prepared for my bid. However, not knowing such things existed till I showed up would preclude me from likely buying/bidding since I did not have the time to set that money aside. I'm sure I'm not the only person in that situation. Tony