Card Stores and the Internet

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>A large number of card stores already have an internet presence. On the side the store owners are buying and selling on E-bay or buying at online auctions.<br /><br />For some reason, they seem to think that their customers don't know about the internet. But of course they do.<br /><br />If the store owners have room for it, why not have internet ascess in their store?<br /><br />Have a set-up like Kinko's where you can stick your credit card into the computer and you are billed for the time on the computer. Also, it sends the message that you are not afraid of internet competition. Not only that you can give advice as to who the reputable internet sellers are.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Matt</b><p>The card shop would not offset the cost of having an internet kiosk with the additional business brought in as a result of having it. Simple economics.

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Posted By: <b>Miguel</b><p>I'm not sure that selling Internet access is profitable for anyone in the U.S. anymore (where there are so many free WiFI spots everywhere you look...contrast this with many parts of the EU, where access is less available in public areas).<br /><br />However, I do like the idea of card shops being more "hang out" types of places than they have been historically. Why not have free WiFI access, some seating, a big screen TV, and maybe some (packaged) refreshment for sports fans. In the winter, you could play baseball videos/DVDs until live baseball came back.<br /><br />Recently I was back in my hometown in the midwest (Pop. ~70,000), and I was very delighted to discover that a new sports card shop had sprouted up. I went by and was really impressed -- they specialized in older unopened material, which is one of may favorite things to buy and collect, and also had a decent selection of post-war vintage. It gives me hope that similar shops may appear, perhaps with a similar focus on older material. In order for these or any shop to survive, however, I think they need to figure out what they can offer that will compete with eBay and the deep discounts one can get online. In the alternative, they can run their shops as primarily warehouses and showcases that support their online business, and do not seek to make a profit from the brick-and-mortar store alone.

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Posted By: <b>Tom Boblitt</b><p>why would you want access for someone to buy something from someone else in your store? Storeowners typically sell stuff for more than ebay or the internet, so you'd be shooting yourself in the foot. <br />

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Posted By: <b>Bottom of the Ninth</b><p>Whenever I see a new Peter C thread I am drawn to it like a moth is to light.

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Tom,<br /><br />You won't be damaging your business. Customers are going to be using the internet at home or the office anyway.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>jay wolt</b><p>This idea makes no sense.<br />Why would a card shop clear off an area from <br />selling their wares to buy computers & place them where anyone<br />can view eBay or other internet sites from the competition?<br /><br />What is the possible upside for the card store owner?

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Posted By: <b>dennis</b><p>What is the possible upside for the card store owner?<br />they would be more like kinko's?

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>what a ridiculous idea...<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Suppose your prices are competitive with the internet?<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>inside the card store / next to all of the vintage cards and the internet connection....<br /><br /><br /><br />how much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?<br /><br /><img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14> <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>peter- nickel's worth of free advice:<br /><br />just stop right here...move on to something else, you are gonna get slaughtered...

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Posted By: <b>jay wolt</b><p>Perhaps Supermarkets, Department Stores & Resturants<br />can implement this idea too!<br />Pure Idiocy!

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>jay, i think you actually meant "idiosyncrasy"...<br /><br />(a characteristic, habit, mannerism, or the like, that is peculiar to an individual).<br /><br /><img src="/images/wink.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>david Poses</b><p>i always thought it would be cool to have a bar at a laundromat. <br /><br />just a thought...

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Posted By: <b>Jim VB</b><p>How about a Law Office, with a Starbucks-like atmosphere in the reception area. You could swipe your credit card and use their computer to access Westlaw right there! No need to actually sit and talk to those busy lawyers! During most of the day they could use big screen TVs to show reruns of Law & Order, Matlock, and even Perry Mason!<br /><br /><br />National franchise under the old standby name of Dewey, Cheetum & Howe.

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Posted By: <b>Jason L</b><p>I hope you put on the bullet-proof vest for this thread...<br /><br />you asked, "what if your prices are competitive with those on the internet?"<br /><br />I don't see how a dealer could be competitive if they are, as you suggested in your original post:<br />1) paying rent and overhead for the store<br />2) paying for a PC plus internet hookup for customers<br /><br />I get the idea with regards to trying to create a place to hangout...like a shopping destination, or some sort of cultural phenomenon, but unless you're also selling high-calorie coffee-related drinks for $3-4 per cup, I don't see how this is going to work.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> We had one in College, called "Suds and Buds"..... But it went out of business because people were to drunk to do there laundry... <br /><br /><br /><br /> Be well Brian<br /><br />PS Thread is done....

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>How about a combination baseball card store and brothel? You don't see those every day.

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>hi barry, that's a great idea, but i'm sure you'd be overpaying for a Near Mint Piece... <img src="/images/wink.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Michael- you and I are enterprising souls...I think we could pull it off. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>thats a splendid idea.<br /><br />but it is very important that the product offerings are not consistent.<br /><br /><br />Unlike the cards offered..... the brothel should offer shiny, altered is a plus, and definitely not pre-war.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>Dave S</b><p>Maybe with the Holidays approaching, card shops should consider making-up gift cards and offering them at Wal-Mart and Giant Eagles?<br />Maybe they could even team-up with ATT or Verizon for computer-time to use and buy at the kiosks?

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Have you heard about the near-sighted hooker?<br /><br />You have to hand it to her.

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>I'm glad you guys like the idea...I'm putting my life savings into a new age baseball card store. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br /><br />Actually, your prices would have to be a little higher than the internet, but wouldn't you be willing to pay a little more from a storeowner that was honest and unafraid of the competition?<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>what is this obsession with being "unafraid of the competition"? i could be "unafraid" of Mike Tyson, but if i get into the ring with him, he would punch me into the 5th row...what is the importance of being "unafraid"?...pride?

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Posted By: <b>Rob</b><p>Barry / Mike, you guys will need someone to grade/authenticate the Brothel section of your enterprise. I'm your guy!!<br /><br />Rob<br /><img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Despite its seaminess, there is something intriguing about a brothel. Maybe we can all get together and work on it, kind of a Net54 project.<br /><br />And as customers leave, they get a voucher to use towards a vintage baseball card. It's a perfect meeting of two worlds.

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>Barry- best of all, our "professionals" will be "unafraid of the competition"! hahahaha...

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Posted By: <b>Al Simeone</b><p>Ah another well thought out Peter C post. Just when you thought it was safe to come out and play Peter C drops another gem of a post. Well done Peter!!! Still waiting to see some of your collection! Oh thats right your scanner sucks. Remember christmas is right around the corner!

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Posted By: <b>Eric</b><p>"i always thought it would be cool to have a bar at a laundromat. <br /><br />just a thought..."<br /><br /><br />I too have seen these. On the flipside, I knew of one when I was in school called Buds and Suds. The laundromat was downstairs and the bar was on the second floor. That one seemed to thrive. I've seen a couple more sprout up around Wisconsin.....but of course something like that would be successful there. <br /> <br />

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Posted By: <b>Jerry</b><p>Sloate's Vintage Card Bunny Ranch

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Wasn't the Bunny Ranch in that HBO Cathouse special?

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Posted By: <b>Jason L</b><p>you said in an earlier post:<br /><br />"...but wouldn't you be willing to pay a little more..."<br /><br />No.<br /><br />Just.... No.<br /><br />No, I wouldn't.<br /><br />almost positive.<br />yes, definitely not.<br /><br />No.

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Jason,<br /><br />Would you be willing to pay more to get your card right away instead of waiting a week.<br /><br />Being unafraid of the competition, just refers to being honest and letting people know what the prices are in the marketplace. Let's be frank the people who shop regularily for vintage cards already know the prices before they walk into your store.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Steve</b><p>Another quality troll, by Mr Chao<br /><br />My guess, We break 100 before the night's through!

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Posted By: <b>Lance</b><p>Sloate's & Throats?<br /><br /> OR<br /><br />Sloate's & Slow Ates?<br /><br />Barry,<br /><br />I do not know the correct pronuciation...

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Rhymes with coat.

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Posted By: <b>Bottom of the Ninth</b><p>Can anyone, besides Peter C, tell me the point of this thread? Prior to this thread there really had not been a Peter C sighting for about a week. I concluded he found something to do at his office. Peter when you were much younger (chronologically speaking) you must've loved when the kids taped the "Kick Me" signs to your back. Just a guess. <br /><br />Greg

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Barry,<br /> How about "Master of your Domain"......<br /><br /> Be well Brian<br /><br />PS I'm an excellent grader.... and I won a contest.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>Lance</b><p>Sloate's and Throate's...The best '69...Topps in Town!<br /><br />Maybe Peter C. could be the linen manager?

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Posted By: <b>chris bland</b><p>LOL at "Sloate's and Throats"<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Brian- at Sloate's and Throats you need not be master of your domain. That will already be taken care of. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Lance,<br /><br /> Nice one..... I was going to go with: "Get Luckey at Leons" with a nice RED neon sign... Be well Brian<br /><br /><br /> PS Sarno would be a great Manager...smiley....

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>"Being unafraid of the competition, just refers to being honest and letting people know what the prices are in the marketplace."<br /><br />does this statement make sense to anyone?

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Barry,<br /> Go buy Mr. Pitt some new socks... or Kramer some new birds... smiley..<br /><br /> Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS I have to lob you a changeup every now and then.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Sarno,<br /> Have a cold one.... and stop trying to make sense out of Peter's post.<br /><br /> Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS Did you win anything this week???

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Posted By: <b>Seth B.</b><p>Sloate's Throats is fantastic. I sat for five minutes trying to come with anything close, and I couldn't do it. <br /><br /><br /><br />Edited: Oh, what's the point anymore?

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Brian- I was watching that episode too. I love when Karen sings at the end...no voice at all.

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>"Maybe Peter C. could be the linen manager?"<br /><br />this was a great line!<br /><br />hi brian- i'll be the talent scout here in NYC, <img src="/images/wink.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Barry,<br /> At least she was smiling.....

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Michael,<br /> I have no doubt you would be a great talent scout for NY.... that's why I said you should manage the joint.<br /><br /> Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS I will take the South....

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>Brian- i have been laying low for a while, i spent too much money, late summer/early fall, so i need to chill for now...how about you?

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Michael,<br /> I picked up a nice Steak this morning... and I;m headed out to the grill to cook and look over the Golf course. Be well Brian<br /><br />PS More Beer...

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>brian- be well, enjoy the steak!<br /><br />i'm heading out, not sure where yet, but there are 20,000 restaurants and even more bars in NYC, i'll find something! <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br /><br />have a great weekend...

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Michael,<br /> My Mom and Dad are in NY for the weekend..... So I have eyes everywhere.<br /><br /> Have a good night. Be well Brian<br /><br />PS I'll email you after the first bloody in the afternoon... smiley

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>I'm afraid of the competition. Very afraid. Hold me.

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Posted By: <b>Ken W.</b><p>Before I had machines of my own, I did my laundry at "Duds & Suds." They even sold beer mugs for about five bucks and you could get it filled for 50 cents whenever you were there. The place was gold, Jerry, GOLD!!!

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>I say "Deep Sloate".<br /><br /><br /><br />come to think of it though.... this really is not such a new concept.<br /><br />There are many places a person can 'buy cards' and 'get screwed'.<br /><br />It is actually a pretty common business model.<br /><br /><br /><br />edit:<br />if it is all vintage cards.... another combo name:<br /><br />Barry's Topps-less Tavern.

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Joe- you're on a roll. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br /><br />I think the next Net54 dinner we'll take a meeting on opening a baseball card related brothel. It can't miss!

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>All of you guys are on a roll...it's the end of the month. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>keyway</b><p>Barry; What will you be giving out to the first 100 customers?

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Posted By: <b>Bobby Binder</b><p>If you guys do a brothel I want my girls graded AUTHENTIC and TRIMMED..

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /><br /> Hi Bobby,<br /> No problem, but they may not have a heart beat......

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Posted By: <b>Bobby Binder</b><p>And I don't want vintage "Shinny and new" prefer created in the 80's..

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Posted By: <b>Jerry</b><p>Sloate's specials of the week<br />Your choice Screwball special comes with card of Carl Hubbell or the Spitball special comes with card of Ed Walsh.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> You mean like the "Golden Girls..."<br /><br /> Be well Brian

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>10s only but will not accept GAI graded.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>just checking my email, before i go out...<br /><br />the first 100 customers get a free "Plow Boy"...<br /><br /><img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Bobby,<br /> Just so you know.... Every time you come, we will post the amout you paid and your name beside the transaction... smiley... Be well Brian

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Posted By: <b>Peter_Spaeth</b><p>Where is Lichtman?????????

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Boy, this thread has a life of its own.<br /><br />Q: Where do vintage baseball cards and brothels intersect?<br /><br />A: T206 Hooker! <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Peter,<br /> Jeff's with Newman.... Climbing up a tree to get a fur coat...smiley.<br /><br /> Be well Brian<br /><br /><br /><br />PS Probably changing the twins....

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>jeff- do not even begin to read this thread...will just give you heartburn...<br /><br />p.s. when are we having the next NYC Dinner guys?

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Michael,<br /> Am I invited..... smiley... The steak was good... Be well Brian

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>I just finished a 4 week run of waking up for work at 3:40 am. Needless to say, Peter's posts have not been quite as funny to me as they have in the past due to my lack of sleep. Until this thread. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br /><br />I am game for a NYC Dinner Thread Dinner asap! I had lunch today at a place called "Seven" on Seventh Avenue and 30th Street and the upstairs area would be perfect for a group dinner.

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>hey jeff-<br /><br />dar, joe d., and i had dinner there once, it is a good spot. it was actually the bar that i met Jim C. at for the first time (hi Jim)...<br /><br />let's try to get something on the books for december...<br /><br />brian- it would be our pleasure to have you as our guest!

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Posted By: <b>Bruce Babcock</b><p>Can we pick a steak house in Manhattan to meet to discuss the eventual location of our brothel in Manhattan?

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Thanks Michael,<br /> I'll be the token Southerner.... And would enjoy meeting Bruce Babcock, so we can look for the location of the first Brothel... Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS We can get one going in Chicago quicker.... The payoffs aren't as much and the process is smoother.<br /><br /><br />PS 2 Bruce can we trade some T209's....

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Posted By: <b>Fred C</b><p> <font size = +10>???</font>

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Brian,<br /><br />I remember "Suds and Buds" very well. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Thanks JK,<br /> Too bad it didn't last longer.... Had they only offered laundry service for a few extra bucks they would have been around forever... Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS lAWSON'S ANKLE MAY NOT BE READY FOR TOMORROW...

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Posted By: <b>Seth B.</b><p>Sitting here in my 'heels sweatshirt, Brian, and I just saw that about Ty. Kentucky doesn't scare me that much, but we need Ty back soon. Bobby Frasor looks like he's walking in cement in comparison, and Q can't handle the ball all that well. Had me worried during the OSU game.<br /><br />-Seth B.

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>As long as we're jumping topics, anyone see last night's Celtics-Knicks game? Midway through the third quarter Celtics were up 82-37. I've followed the NBA for over forty years and never saw a score like that.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Seth,<br /> Ty's Ok,<br /> But Roy doesn't want to rush him back. Don't expect to see him before the Rutgers game unless he improves a great deal. Bobby will be fine in a normal game setting and QT can spell him 8-10 minutes a game, so don't worry. They only called 27 total fouls in the OSU game and from what I undertsand both teams are full of bruises, so it's like going to DOOK every week.<br /> Let me know if you get to NC and we'll go to a game. Be well Brian

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Guys, stop whining. When the 40 year old power forward can't play you can complain.... <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Barry,<br /> You are such a phoney.... just like Mike. If Your team wins by more than 30 than you win.....Smiley. 'I didn't know Cherl Miller's little brother played Basketball"??? Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS Nobody outside of the Major cities watches the NBA... In fact I bet more people knew cared what was going on in Basbeall in 1910 than they do today in the NBA..

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Jeff,<br /> Nobody is complaining that Shelden Williams finally went to the NBA...<br /> Besides he coudn't stop any of the heels anyway.... especially May..<br /><br /> Be well Brian

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Mike is a professional bookie who can't cover his bets...that's why Jerry had his arms broken...sort of <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Seth B.</b><p>Hey Brian, Ty is just incredible to watch, as good at the point as Felton was, but maybe even quicker. I'm thinking we got a good shot in March with him healthy.<br />Thanks for the offer, too. I'm down there so infrequently these days, but my parents still live in Chapel Hill and get season tickets, so I usually take what they don't want when I pass through. I'm glad to hear a fellow NC resident and T209 collector on this board isn't a dookie, though.<br /><br />Best, <br />Seth B.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Seth,<br /> LMK when you are at the Hill for a game and we'll do dinner. Ty is going to be fine, but Roy isn't going to use him until he;s 100%.... No reason to risk it. Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS Besides Jeff, I don't know any vintage collectors that pull for Duke, and none that grew up Dook fans..

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Brian, who is May? Does he play pro ball?

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Jeff,<br /> I have no clue.... He was drafted by Charlotte, but I haven't seen an NBA game since Jordan retired, so I wouldn't know... Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS Dook looks much better than I thought they would... Boo...

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Brian, Duke has no shot that this year as much as I wish it were not true. This is the Holes' year unfortunately....

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Posted By: <b>chris bland</b><p>Yeah Duke will struggle this year - only 8 McDonalds All-Americans on the roster. Will the great Coach K be able to find enough quality players to even have a decent bench?

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Based on the beating they gave Illinois I'd have to vote yes.

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Posted By: <b>chris bland</b><p>Trust me, if you're using a win over Illinois as a barometer for your teams' skills, you will be sorely disappointed. I just get tired of hearing how skilled Coach K is at cobbling teams together every year with sometimes as few as a half dozen HS All-americans!<br /><br />As for Illinois, very few men can turn a 37 win team two years ago into the team we now run out onto the court. Bruce Weber is one such man however.<br /><br />Despite that, I don't mind that we missed out on Jon Scheyer after seeing him play this year. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Alan</b><p>Chris - Is Jon Scheyer not playing well this year ? Will he be getting worse each year at Duke ? I thought a player gets better each year. Hey, but what the hell do I know ?

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Seth, <br /><br />Didnt realize you were a Tar Heel as well - Wow, we almost have numbers. If you come to the Hill, we will all have to get together for a late night meal at Time Out. Its no steak dinner, but I used to live on chicken and cheese biscuits. Maybe we should just start planning something for the dook game. Jeff L. even though your a dookie, feel free to come down and join us - we'll find you a seat so you can watch the beating in person.<br /><br /><br />Barry,<br /><br />As your customers come to the register to pay, remember each should be asked "would you like a little trim with that card?"

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Posted By: <b>Lee Behrens</b><p>I avoided this thread until now, but got sucked in only to find out that Peter C. must be doing some good drugs. <br /><br />Do you have any idea what you actually post Peter C.? I don't know about you but I certainly do not want to be the town clown. Now go sit in the corner and put your dunce hat on. Where is Wonka to put a good visual to this.<br /><br />By the way the biggest down fall to card stores, and I did run one for over 3 years (great fun), was that it got to the point where to many people that purchased from you eventually figure out how to buy things cheaper and than all they do is hang around the store and you are stuck with the over head and no income. This got even worse with the advent of the internet. The tough part of having a store and buying inventory to make a profit to keep the doors open is finding the inventory at that price level. Well when the price guide says a card is worth $100 but actually only sells for $50 on ebay where are you going to find someone willing to sell the card for $25 or less?<br /><br />I have been able to amass a nice collection through buying and selling on ebay but I have no overhead but ebay fees.<br /><br />Lee

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Posted By: <b>Bill</b><p>This is becoming very typical. Peter C. posts a thread, the usual suspects flock to it and discuss how outrageous the thread it. Yeah, haven't seen all this before.<br><br>Change your socks, drink water, and drive on.

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Bill, I know you mean well but please appreciate that the 'usual suspects' is everyone on the board but you.

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Posted By: <b>Steve</b><p>Bill, I don't think I'm alone in this opinion; In a sick, twisted way, I find these threads annoying but amusing. Not for the subject but the clever and comedic responses. And if Peter welcomes the critiques (Peter, the Dangerfield of VBC seems to thrive)... Other than taking up a line in a bulletin board, What harm is there. Peter Chao, Thanks for stirring the pot.

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Posted By: <b>Ed Ivey</b><p>I agree, Steve. Peter's threads get a lot of attention and posts, whatever subjectively determined merit one attributes to the topic. <br /><br />To add: You're not annoying to me Peter.

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Chris, I hear you about Illinois' fortunes. I have been strongly rooting for them since Self's departure as I believed that Kansas was an inferior job. PS: Remember Richard Keene? I think that was a recruiting battle between Duke and Illinois. Scheyer and Chris Collins I suppose as well. I've been an Illinois fan since the 80s as they always had very hard playing, hard rebounding teams. I was always amazed when Duke beat them because other than Brand's Sophomore year Duke was not a very tough team inside - although we didn't play Illinois that year if I recall.

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Posted By: <b>Bill</b><p>Have seen quite a few people defend Peter on here before. Yet the same people who apparently have nothing else going on are the ones who post repeatedly in his threads knocking him. And yes, even in the precious "on topic" threads.<br><br>Change your socks, drink water, and drive on.

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Posted By: <b>Chris Bland</b><p>Jeff,<br /><br />Richard Keene - thats a name from the past! I do remember him quite well. I worked for the men's basketball team at Illinois when I was a student there, and it was during Keene's years as an Illini. I dont know why he didnt turn out to be a better player. He would do things in practice that would literally make your jaw drop. People around here compared his passing ability to Maravich, and while I never saw the Pistol play, I have never seen anyone on any level make some of the plays Keene could make (mostly in practice though <img src="/images/sad.gif" height=14 width=14> )<br /><br />I knew Duke would handle us this year because our talent level is just abysmal. Weber is a hell of an X's and O's coach but he couldnt sell water in the Sahara, and as a result we have no talent to compete with a team like Duke. A lot of Illini fans have begun to grumble about whether he is the right man for the job...

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>I am pretty sure Peter knows by know that threads he starts (LIKE THIS VERY ONE) - are borderline off topic (or just plain off topic) and will get certain responses.<br /><br />I will go onto say that I have a feeling (due to the sheer number of these posts) that this is a purposeful occurance.<br /><br />The 'usual suspects' understand this as well.<br /><br /><br />The 'defenders' are the only ones who many times seem to miss that point.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Its all good. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14> <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br />

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Lee,<br /><br />It's interesting that your post was one of the few that was actually responsive to my actual post. You then tell me that you ran a hobby store before and my post was on topic.<br /><br />In the same post you call me a dunce and you are applying a higher standard to my posts. I appreciate thay you are straightforward.<br /><br />But guys why do you continue to apply a higher standard to my posts? And even if you apply the higher standard to my post, haven't I met the standard since my post is on topic. Also, I've already told you that I'm a newbie to vintage collecting.<br /><br />Isn't it simply better to ignore me if your not interested in the topic?<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Seth B.</b><p>Josh, Time Out sounds like a great idea. Anyway, if the New Yorkers get to have non-ending posts about steakhouses, we can talk about fried chicken in Chapel Hill. Did you ever order the "Bucket of Bones" or something like that? That was the dare food in high school at 3 in the morning: for like a buck and a quarter you could get a bucket of all the discarded bones from the chicken breast sandwiches they made. It was clearly the best deal in town. I do still think that Mama Dip's has superior chicken and Sunrise drive through has better biscuits, but you mention Time Out, and I'm getting really hungry just thinking about it.<br /><br />-Seth B.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p> Hi Seth,<br /> I agree 100%..... and Sunrise had much bigger biscuits....But they didn't have Billy Ray or a bag of Bones.. Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS Hectors late night was better than both.... Double Cheeseburgers on Pita with Chili.... heaven smile...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />PS I think MA D stole her chicken recipe from my Grandma, but I can't prove it... Either way the best fried chicken in the world...

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>I hate to sound ignorant and show my age, but is Hector's still around in CH? I used to end up there after a night of drinking every time.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Jeff,<br /> It's still there, but on Henderson street... The original is now a coffee shop which should be a crime... Be well Brian<br /><br />PS Nice win today.... Davidson will beat a lot of good teams...

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Brian, Davidson is tough -- what about Dell Curry's kid? Why on earth didn't Duke or UNC grab him? I've never seen a kid shoot 3 pointers off the wrong foot -- and go in so consistently. <br /><br />I think Duke was exposed today for what they are: a good team with a lot of 'good' players but not great. Singler and Henderson are very good but not elite (Singler not yet at least). I have to say that I enjoyed UNC-Ky today: what a joy it is when a Duke fan can have a guarantee that either UNC or Ky will lose. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Jeff,<br /> I don't think either team had a shot at Curry, as he was groomed to stay around town and light it up... He's not Dell, but his jumper is pretty sweet... and will hurt a lot of teams. I would hate to play these boys in the NCAA... It's also nice to be on a board where every Carolina fan doesn't HATE Dook.... Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS I wasn't speaking for me.....

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Ha! Of course not, Brian. You can't truly be a fan of either school and also like the other, though I do have to say that as it's been 17 years since I've graduated I can't say that I have nearly the same hate that I once did (in fact I actually like Hansbrough as a player/person but I'll deny it off this board). One more minor secret: as a kid growing up, one of my alltime favorite college players was Al Wood.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p> Hi Jeff.<br /> I don't blame you.... Al Wood had the sweetest 15 ft jumper in the world...Just ask Ralph.....(Sampson)... Be well Brian<br /><br />How can he score 39 points in one game.... all net....<br /><br /><br />PS I only pull for Duke when they play the Russians... just like you...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> But, don't sell Dook short, they will end up in the top 10 all year, with a good chance at the final four if they win the ACC... But, they will probably have to beat THE Heels first...

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Yeah, I just don't see Duke better than 9-7 or 10-6 in the ACC. They're just not much better than last year though getting rid of that stiff in the middle did help.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Jeff,<br /> I hope you are right, but I think they are better than last year...<br /><br /> Kyle and Gerald make them tougher if they continue to improve...<br /><br /><br /> Give me a call if you make it to NC. Be well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS Are the twins sleeping well??? <br />

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Brian, I'm dying to get down there for a game; haven't been there since my kids were born. They were great sleepers until we got them beds and they figured out quickly that they could leave the room and come into ours'. At 2 am. And 4 am. Now they're letting us sleep until 6 am which is very kind of them. I never dreamed that sleeping until 7 am on a Saturday could be such a gift.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Jeff,<br /> I understand.... Reverse the locks on the doors and put camera's in there rooms and you are home free... My kids know if they wake me up before 7:30 they are toast... Be well Brian..<br /><br /><br /> Come on down... and we'll show you a good NC goodtime.....

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Brian, I tried that suggestion on the wife and she nearly castrated me. I then suggested a gate in front of the door -- same response. I suggested then that she be the one to deal with them in the middle of the night which seemed appropriate under the circumstances.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p> Hi Jeff,<br /> Bring your lovely bride with you and I will have my wife chat with her... then everyone will be happy... Sleep well Brian<br /><br /><br />PS It helps to take them to Biscuitville in the morning if they are quiet...

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Posted By: <b>Dan Bretta</b><p>What is this Chatline???<br /><br />Answer Peter's question dammit! <br /><br /><br />---------&gt; Note Winking Smiley <img src="/images/wink.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Brian and I mercifully hijacked the thread to topics including sleepless nights, ACC basketball and my possible castration. I'm sure many would think this was an improvement.

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Posted By: <b>Seth B.</b><p>IMNSHO, best discussion on a Peter Chaos thread yet! (insert smiley)

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Seth,<br /><br />Ive had many a "bucket of bones". You remember the name correctly, but not the price. You could actually get a full bucket for under a buck if I remember correctly - perfect for those nights that you used up all your cash at the bar.<br /><br />Brian, <br /><br />In the TO vs. Hectors battle, I personally liked TO better - I guess the giant cockroaches at Hectors scared me a little. Nevertheless, a double cheeseburger on pita was very tasty.<br /><br />Jeff, <br /><br />To add to Brian's answer regarding Hectors, one reason it moved is because the original was destroyed by a fire if Im not mistaken. I just cant recall if it moved before it reopened or reopened and then moved.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Dan,<br /><br />Thanks for the concern. I suppose the answer is let's not make a big deal out of this, that's acceptable.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Dan,<br /> Sorry, I've never hijacked one of Peter's threads before.... and probably won't again...smiley..<br /><br /> Be well Brian<br /><br />PS I didn't answer the question, because it had already been answered too many times above. Bad idea for card shops, good idea for Book stores.

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Posted By: <b>Anonymous</b><p><br />&gt;&gt;&gt;How about a combination baseball card store and brothel? You don't see those every day.&lt;&lt;&lt;<br /><br />I know this reply is late in the thread but your idea won't work.<br />Too much f#%king overheaed <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br />

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Well, it's only a theoretical business. I don't think it will happen. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>barry, what do you mean? i'm starting to look for spaces for us to lease...<br /><br /><img src="/images/wink.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>and I have a few weeks of field research planned - to 'research' the competition.<br />

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Posted By: <b>Lee Behrens</b><p>Peter C., If only you had a clue. You have became a joke on this board and you don't get it.<br /><br />Barry, I think you need to open up and have Peter C. as your first customer maybe than he can find a forum in that field or better yet start his own.<br /><br />Lee

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Lee,<br /><br />But you guys don't understand I don't mind being the butt of jokes. If it isn't me it would be somebody else. I'm taking the flak for all the shy people that don't want to post. Explain to me why somebody would lurk for 4 years before the started posting? Does it really take 4 years to figure out the informal rules that are applied every day?<br /><br />Look what's the worst thing that could happen to me? I could get banned from Net54. My wife would love it. Then I would have nothing better to do than work 60 hour weeks and we can move to Beverly Hills.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Dan Bretta</b><p>Peter, are you asking to be banned? Are you saying you started this thread to deflect all the abuse that we pile onto the shy posters? <br /><br />Did you even think about the question you posed before you posted it? Really? Does it even make sense that a card store owner would provide internet access for customers so they could buy cards cheaper than they can get from the store owner?<br /><br />I'd like to think that as a graduate of UC Berkley you would be a little more analytical in your thought process, but I just don't know....are you trolling? Are you conducting a sociology experiment?

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Peter, two very serious misconceptions of yours: 1) that if you didn't post someone else would get the abuse/attention you so richly and happily deserve and want; and 2) that you'd be capable of generating more income if you didn't spend all your time providing us with your revolutionary ideas.

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Posted By: <b>ScottIngold</b><p>Better watch Jeff.<br /><br />Peter will move to Manhattan and start stealing your clients.

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Posted By: <b>ScottIngold</b><p>Sorry......<img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>leon</b><p>The differences between Peter C (hi Peter) and the few people that have been banned are:<br /><br />1. He will quit (slow down) if I ask him too.<br />2. He is not mean spirited.<br />3. He doesn't attack folks.<br /><br />On the flip side I do read every single post in every single thread so I understand ALL of the sentiments towards him. Honestly, at this very moment I am neutral, but do like him. <br /><br />Back to the initial question. On the very surface the idea makes a lot of business sense. (never thought I would say that did you?). From being in business myself I know the way to make money is to attract people. My restaurant debacle, and other ventures, have proven this out. When you have folks in your establishment there is at least a "chance" of them spending money. Minus the internet sales for a brick and mortar store, or catalog (if there is one), then you have no chance of generating revenue if no one is there. At least the internet terminals would draw folks in. Once in then you have a chance to "sell" them....Maybe you just got in some new wiz bang, gotta have it gizmo, but with no one in the store, there is no one to buy it. Also, once in the store maybe you could have some food and beverage to sell? Bottom line is that in a brick and mortar business you have to have customers come in the door (minus those other things mentioned) to make money. I have seen worse ideas than Peter's. regards

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Well, I guess my business idea could work. With Joe testing the competition's product, he'll get us some important statistical data for sure.<br /><br />Peter- just out of curiosity, why don't you mind being the butt of everyone's jokes? I would personally be mortified if I were in a place where people were making fun of me, and would certainly leave.<br /><br />Wouldn't it be better to be respected than to be ridiculed?

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>It is a terrible business idea. <br />Plain and simple.<br /><br /><br />Yes - more people in your store is a good thing...<br />(nobody is arguing against that)<br />most retailers handle this by celebrity appearances, promotional events, sales, and such.<br />NOT by giving customers opportunity to buy from the competition.<br /><br /><br /><br />Oh, and I agree with your points about Peter. I do not dislike him - and would be happy to buy him a beer at the National.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>leon</b><p>I should have mentioned that I do think his idea would need tweaking....but on the surface, no, it's not a bad idea, at least to me. More people, more revenue...maybe the internet terminals would have some type of gimmick tied to the brick and mortar where folks could win prizes and slightly gamble, somehow? People love to gamble (not me, but my better half does)....So you get them into the store with a terminal to look at cards....then you parlay that into something else?? I don't know if it would work but I really have seen much worse ideas work....Who ever thought that you could sell a $5 cup of coffee when you can go across the street to a gas station and get 95% of the same thing for .99 ?? take care

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Posted By: <b>Dan Bretta</b><p>As far as I can tell in my now somewhat limited time I spend in my local card shop is that it has already turned into a gambling parlor. People paying $5-$100 for a pack of cards hoping to pull an autograph or 1/1 card of some type. The rest of the stuff in the pack?? Just filler.

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Leon,<br /><br />I appreciate you standing up for me. However, I do think a different standard is being applied to me. If somebody else had posted this topic, it would have died after 5 posts like it should have.<br /><br />I may not be on the cutting edge of this hobby like some of you are but I do have confidence in my ideas. <br /><br />The thing is I like my local card store in San Jose and I would hate to have card stores die out.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Leon,<br /><br />I appreciate you standing up for me. However, I do think a different standard is being applied to me. If somebody else had posted this topic, it would have died after 5 posts like it should have.<br /><br />I may not be on the cutting edge of this hobby like some of you are but I do have confidence in my ideas. <br /><br />The thing is I like my local card store in San Jose and I would hate to have card stores die out.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>its hard to use the coffee shop as an anology.<br /><br />That is a consumable product. <br /><br />You could buy a $3 steak and a $50 steak.<br />A $1 bottle of wine and $50 bottle of wine.<br />The same for coffee, burgers, etc.<br /><br /><br />But - If you walk into Peter Chao's Card Shop - <br />or as I like to call it "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium".... <br />you might pass on the cards he has as you see the same or different ones right there to distract your wallet.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>Dan Bretta</b><p>I wonder when Sam's club will put in internet kiosks with a direct link to Costco's website? That'd be a great idea wouldn't it? I mean someone might buy a cup of coffee while they're surfing the web.

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Posted By: <b>Al Simeone</b><p>Leon,<br />Not being rude how could you even entertain that thought?<br />His idea would need a little tweaking to work? Maybe thats why your business didnt work with that kind of thought process. First why would people go to a CARD STORE to get internet access? You can go to the public library for that matter. Second how many card stores "brick and mortar" do you think exist in any one town. Let alone a small town. I dont even want to get into this as a business discussion because the thought of it is just to foolish. The bottom line here as always Peter C posts up another gem of a question the post goes on and on about nothing . People get angry,them people come to Peter Cs rescue and the foolish post goes on and on for 200 threads. Go back and look at this one how many are really about what the topic is all about? 20 or so? I know you like Peter and you continue to state he isnt a mean spirited person but really Leon you as the moderator should know the post has nothing to do with pre war cards! But yet you allow it all the time to continue. All I ever see about Peter Cs posts is a way for people to BLOW OFF a little steam and use Peter as the valve. In context his posts are really worthless other than that. He himself states he wants to be banned. A man with at least his education should realize some of his questions are just plain stupid. As I stated before he never offers up one scan,of a card ,glove,pin,etc. NOTHING always an excuse my scanner is bad! Come on Peter your a lawyer dont be so cheap and buy one! As Lee stated he has become the bigest joke around here but he himself states he doesnt care. Time to do something about that Leon.

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Posted By: <b>Steve</b><p>Attention is vital. If you're not getting positive's then negative's will suffice.

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Posted By: <b>Dan Koteles</b><p>"Sloates & Sloths"....the two toed dealers !

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Dan you're not the first to use Sloth as a nickname for Sloate. I've been called that one before. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>Dan Koteles</b><p>I actually wasnt calling you anything at all, I may need you sometime . Sorta figuring mine had a little more charm then a "red light" district tag on you .Cheers Barry and Merry Xmas !

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>A happy holiday to you too...and to everyone on the board for that matter!

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Barry, cut the good cheer out -- I require a steak. When?

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Posted By: <b>Lee Behrens</b><p>Why would anyone looking at this board for the first time or have been lurking decided to participate when there are questions such as these and others that Peter C. thinks he is contributing to the board? His posts give absolutely zero creditability to this board. He even points out himself that he really has nothing to offer. IF this is evolution we are definately going on devolving.<br /><br />Leon, I also can not believe that you think his idea even needs tweaking to work. Coming from a businessman I am amazed you even stand behind the thought. The space the computers take up would not offset the pop and candybar they MIGHT purchase.<br /><br />A thought just came to me, Peter C. works for Progressive. <img src="/images/happy.gif" height=14 width=14><br /><br />Al, Thanks for giving another clear view as to why Peter C. is a troll. <br /><br />Lee

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>jeff- let's make that steak happen in the next 2 weeks or so...before the holidays...?

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Not Morton's Jeff, that was subpar. Peter Luger's makes them look really really bad. But how do we get a contingent into Brooklyn?<br /><br />How about Sushi?

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Mike, yes, definitely. I've been stuck in during the week pretty much for the past month and badly require a steak. If we tell Brian that Mr. Mint has come across that special T206 Jackson with a Hindu back we may be able to entice him to fly north for the dinner.

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>jeff- if brian comes north, i OWE him a fat steak, so his dinner is on me! let's try to get something on the books for next week or the following week...<br /><br />barry/joe/wonka/rob/scott...etc...whada say fellas? let's do the email thing tomorrow...<br /><br /><br /><br />how 'bout those NY Football Giants?! <br /><br />Jets did pretty good too!

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>I think Wonka is MIA. As for Brian, I'd pay for his steak as well. People from the south don't appreciate what a dearth of college basketball fans there is in NYC. Probably the main thing I miss about NC after Duke basketball, Hector's and Waffle House.

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>I didn't think the Giants had a chance when they were down 16-7. I was very impressed with the 4th quarter.<br /><br />I know Jay Miller wants to join us if we have dinner in NYC. I don't have his email handy- Jay, are you reading this?

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Eli was about to get ridden out of town on a rail after that INT in the endzone. Amazing comeback. I was shocked that Coughlin didn't take a knee a few times to run out the clock when they had first and goal at the one; it could have cost them the game at the end. He's got to go.

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Posted By: <b>Al Simeone</b><p>Thanks Lee,<br />My last thought on this is I guess in this day and age of a BRICK AND MORTAR store, which is trying to struggle with buying product for the store,pay rent,heat, electricity, insurance etc,etc let alone trying to get enough customers to come in in the first place,now I guess he should go out and buy lets say 10 computers, $2000 each, work stations 250 each, re wire for the computers, free up all that space so people can sit down drink coffee they bought at the 7-11 down the street and brought into your new store to buy nothing and just use your new computers to surf the web! Peter you said you were going to stop being a lawyer and do something else at one point, I truely hope you dont because you would bankrupt in a matter of months.

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Posted By: <b>Al Simeone</b><p>Jeff,<br />I think all you need to get out of the city and come to Ct. Im 40 minutes from you and if you want a Good steak come to Bennetts Steak House. Its Bennett Salvatores Place.

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Posted By: <b>barrysloate</b><p>Jeff- I was thinking about that too, but how can scoring a touchdown be the wrong play? It was a tough call, and almost backfired.

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Posted By: <b>Ted Zanidakis</b><p>Can we expect to hear you on Imus' radio show in the morning ?<br /> <br />What happened to Curtis Slewa's radio gig ?<br /><br />And, if you guys persuade Brian Weisner to come North, I'll make an extra effort to make the 2 1/2 hr trip to NYC.<br /><br />TED Z<br />

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Posted By: <b>Jeff Lichtman</b><p>Ted, I just finished a month doing the morning show with Sliwa and nearly lost my mind from lack of sleep. The show was cancelled in favor of Imus's show which starts tomorrow -- even though we climbed to #3 in NY behind an all news station (WINS) and some spanish FM music show. I think my radio career is on hiatus for a while as I need to start working on my day job with a bit more sleep behind me.

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>count me in for a NYC dinner.<br /><br />someone get it going!<br /><br /><br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>John</b><p>I am not so sure peter (or anyone) should have to prove they belong here by posting scans of their cards. Is this a pissing contest or a message board devoted to love of the hobby? If someone reads the board and contributes, that should be enough- regardless of whether they own a pre-war card or not. After all, today’s person who may not have the cash for a huge pre-war collection might come to this board out of curiosity- how we treat the person may determine whether he/she remains interested in pre-war or the hobby in general.<br /><br />I am also puzzled as to why people feel the need to constantly attack peter. If a post does not interest you, do not reply. I do that quite often here and on other message boards. If you do not find anything kind to say to someone, do not say anything. Name calling and sexist jokes are what kids (and adults who never grew up?) do on playgrounds. The idealist in me likes to think adults are emotionally mature enough to realize that just b/c you can hurl an insult at what you think is an ‘easy target’ doesn’t mean you should hurl the insult. It is a bit hypocritical to call someone a troll/useless when most of the people doing that are the ones constantly hurling insults @ peter. Mutual trollage perhaps? I wonder how those who hurl insults think THEIR posts reflect on Net54? Would you feel inclined to join Net54 today if you saw MANY people insulting someone for what appears to be no other reason than 'bc they have nothing better to do'?<br /><br />As for the business idea, some shops here (few remain and I live in a LARGE urban area) do offer free wifi. Not quite the same as peter’s kiosk idea, but many people bring their laptops in and check out prices before buying from the shop owners. Other shops have Playstations and huge tvs- it seems to draw crowds, but I’m not sure it draws many buyers.<br />

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Posted By: <b>Jeff</b><p>Peter - I agree, your posts are held to a different standard. However, you've brought this upon yourself through a high volume of O/T and sometimes bizarre posts. I hear similar complaints from employees in my office who have low scores on their quality audits - but the reason I look at their work more closely is because they've proven that they can't meet the standards that have been established. You've made your own bed here.<br /><br />John - using your logic, people should be allowed to post whatever they want on this board. After all, I could choose to simply ignore their posts, right? Of course, the board would likely deteriorate relatively quickly and it would become so difficult to wade through all the crap than many valuable contributors would stop participating, and that would be a loss to us all.<br /><br />As for the idea that started this mess, consider all the related problems.... no matter how good your filtering software is, some idiot will end up accessing porn, a virus, or both, on your computers. Then you get to deal with irate parents (minors will use your computers) or damaged computers. Don't think it will happen? Ever seen what people look at on the terminals at the library? I have, and it's not pretty. Putting internet terminals in your store is an OK idea if you want to have an internet cafe/card store. However, I don't believe that you will have the same customers use both sides of the business.<br /><br />Jeff

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>John,<br /><br />Thanks for helping me out. I do believe that there are people that don't post because they are simply afraid of ridicule.<br /><br />Barry,<br /><br />Also if you are afraid of ridicule, it's a bad idea to be a trial attorney. Normally, your opposition will be just as sharp as you are and he will say your position sucks. Also, there will be times the Judge will be just as rude.<br /><br />I would rather not be banned. But on the other hand I have been fairly successful in life and would not judge myself based on people's opinion of me on this Board.<br /><br />Leon,<br /><br />There's no need to warn me. I'll try to comply. I'm sure that if I met people at the National, we would be drinking buddies rather quickly. I'm not that different just a little independent.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>Lee Behrens</b><p>John,<br /><br />Peter has contributed nothing to the boards main focus. He is throwing out random thoughts in the baseball field.<br /><br />Peter,<br /><br />Once again, I plead and beg and complement anyone on your side and tell Leon you will "TRY" to conform. How many times do we have to hear this before you actually do conform.<br /><br />For all that defend him, WHY? He admits he is doing everything he is accused of.<br /><br />As far as ignoring him, I let this post get to 98 before I responded and do not respond to many of them but with his constant idiotic behavior others want to respond so why can't I?<br /><br />Lee

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Posted By: <b>Anonymous</b><p>Peter, it's exactly because I don't want to be ridiculed that I am a good trial attorney. The lawyers that don't mind the abuse are usually abused on a daily basis -- which is exactly what they deserve.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Lee,<br /><br />For some people (like me for instance) it's not easy for me to be just a follower. It is not in my nature. My english professor at Berkeley didn't think I could make it as an attorney. I ignored him. It's in my nature to be stubborn and independent.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>John</b><p>Personally, I like random thoughts now and then, so do not get all worked up over peter’s posts. life is too short for that. I do not think people should be able to post anything- ex., I would hope people here would have enough sense not to post OMG, did u see what happened on American Idol (or whatever show’s hot today- don’t watch much TV). If someone posts something related to the hobby (business ideas for example- even if they may not succeed), that is okay w/me. I know when I first came to this board (years and years before I actually registered), I did not have much pre war knowledge (and sadly, no scans to prove my worth). However, the board made me feel welcome when I eventually posted an intro and I have learned quite a lot, even though I mainly lurk. Even when I do not agree w/someone- or just do not have an interest in their particular post- I always try to learn something.

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>John,<br /><br />Thanks for the support. At first I was skeptical, but apparently self-policing works. Look at the front page, there's more posts regarding pre-war vintage cards than normal.<br /><br />Thanks, guys.<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>shane leonard</b><p>Peter,<br />Your questions are effing rediculous. In one of your posts you mention that a dealer would be trying to screw you if he was afraid to let you know what the market is on ebay by not providing computer access to his clients. Are you kidding me? By providing a computer in your store, you're allowing all the deadbeat collectors to come into your store, like yourself, and sit there for five hours while your significant other goes shopping. To provide a $4 drink to your clients is fine if they have the money for it. Most of your clients would expect you to give you the drink for free because they opened eight packs of 2007 Topps packages. <br /><br />Your posts are absolutely the stupidest posts anyone could imagine. The pure economics of your responses to this thread shows me why you are not a business man. <br /><br />Leon, please block him! <br />Shane

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Posted By: <b>shane leonard</b><p>John,<br />I would prefer to hear about how the "Wiggles" are doing at Disney World than to suffer through the thoughtless posts of Peter. <br /><br />shane

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Than why open them up to read at all?

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>before the 'defenders' come out to object to those latest posts.<br /><br /><br />look at who bumped this thread back to the top.... and ask yourself if that person is getting exactly what he wants -- attention --.<br /><br /><br />something to think about.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Im not defending anyone in this post - just curious why anyone would open this tread up, let alone post twice, if they would "prefer to hear about how the "Wiggles" are doing at Disney World than to suffer through the thoughtless posts of Peter."

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Posted By: <b>Joe D.</b><p>to be clear.... I wasn't referring to you -<br />I know the time on my post might have looked that way.<br /><br />but when I began writing my post - your post wasn't there.<br /><br /><br />when I finally hit the respond button, your post was there before mine.<br /><br /><br />I definitely did not intend to direct it at you or anyone else in particular.<br /><br />

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Posted By: <b>Al Simeone</b><p>Joe D.<br />You hit it right on the head. Peter needs Attention.<br />JK<br />Give us a break you defend him all the time. The Guys a clown .Knows nothing about vintage cards,but loves to push peoples buttons.<br />Leon PLEASE its time now this post has been beat to death and now really serves no purpose other than giving Peter his wish to reach 200 posts. Time to see the nice little lock pop up!!

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Gotcha - thanks for the clarification.

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Al - youre wrong. I have only defended Peter when post was on topic and had some merit. That is not the case here. I havent posted one item in support of this thread. <br /><br />You, on the other hand, seem to get off on of acting like a high school bully toward Peter regardless of whether its merited or not. Why is that.

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Posted By: <b>Al Simeone</b><p>JK,<br />I dont know where you have been for the last 4 months or so but if you really need to ask me that question then you havnt been reading all of his gems. If you notice I never comment on his posts when they are ON TOPIC. But come on JK give me a break! Most of his posts border on stupidity!<br />Bully? Far from it. Even Peter will tell you that. He doesnt consider me one of the KEY STONE COPS . You yourself posted up here talking about basketball and chicken and cheese biscuits. What does that have to do with this post? Answer nothing. And thats the point if Peter wants to Yammer about topics like this there are plenty of other places to get attention. And as long as he continues to do this MANY of us will continue to do what we do. Just like you do what you want to do.

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Posted By: <b>JK</b><p>Al,<br /><br />I agree - I intentionally helped others in their effort to hijack this thread by talking about chicken biscuits and Carolina basketball. I did so, however, while managing not to say one derogatory thing about Peter personally. I'd like to think that is how most adults would handle problems that they face. <br /><br />edited to add an "s" to problems.

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Posted By: <b>Al Simeone</b><p>JK,<br />Well I guess Im not one of those adults.

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Posted By: <b>Brian Weisner</b><p><br /> Hi Michael, Jeff, and JK, thanks for the kind words... I would love to make it to dinner this month, but my schedule won't allow it. I will promise to see you guys at the National, and I will make it to the "city" sometime in 2008. Be well to all Brian<br /><br /><br />PS Michael, you don't owe me anything.... Friends enjoy each others company, and don't worry too much about the tab... be well my friend. Brian

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Posted By: <b>MVSNYC</b><p>brian- fair enough...thanks!<br /><br />looking forward to your '08 trip up to NYC...we'll take care of you <img src="/images/wink.gif" height=14 width=14>

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Posted By: <b>peter chao</b><p>Al S.,<br /><br />You are a difficult guy to please, would you be happier if I put you on the list of Keystone Cops?<br /><br />Peter C.

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Posted By: <b>leon</b><p>I was really hoping you wouldn't bump this again.....enough is enough....