Some Positive Thoughts on This Hobby

[Jim VB]

Rich,


Is there even one? I've lived here close to 5 years and have never gone to a show locally.

There aren't even many non-passable shows around here.

[drc]

I think most people in the hobby, big to small timers, are honest and ethical.

I think people are more knoweldgeable than the used to be, and I've learned a lot from others on this board. I've learned a lot about game used from the posters at gameuseduniverse, though that's an area I had little knowledge about.

[jbsports33]

I think we are all blessed that so many of us are active in the hobby, the collector has so many avenues now and it’s only growing. There are disappointing stories we all hear about shows, auction companies and individuals that take advantage of this hobby. In truth there has never better a time I can remember that the hobby has benefited with strong communities, resources like this site and many others. We all learn and take care of each other and want to help everyone enjoy collecting, so other generations can continue what we and our past collectors have started.

Jimmy

[Robextend]

When I stumbled upon Net 54 it actually rejuvinated my interest in the hobby.
Not only have I learned so much, I have made some good collecting friends and consider myself to be part of a community. It is no coincidence that every transaction I have made since joining Net54 has left me much happier than prior to me joining.

Rob

[DeanH3]

I too agree with your points Blair. The interent has been great but it has ruined the large regional shows. I sure do miss going to those shows and anticipating with excitement what I might find, socializing with people I had met and just feeling the buzz I had when I walked in the door and looked at all those dealer tables. We used to have a few good shows a year here in Northern California but those are all but a distant memory.

Just wanted to note though, the internet has expanded my collection more than it probably would be otherwise. Allowed for me to meet new friends I would have not met without it. And provides a place for wonderful communities like this one to be possible.

[D. Broughman]

6. I believe one of the best things about this hobby is an older gentleman can share it with young kids and not have a back ache in the morning. I notice this more every year.

[ethicsprof]

great colleagues, researchers, and friends.

best,
barry

[jb217676]

A positive thought on the Hobby. Hmmm. How about younger collectors like myself focusing on collecting vintage cards instead of modern stuff. To go back to the thread 'Who will be the buyer of our vintage cards in 20 years?' It will hopefully be guys like me, just turning fifty and keeping this great hobby alive!

[Clark7781]

Originally Posted by D. Broughman

6. I believe one of the best things about this hobby is an older gentleman can share it with young kids and not have a back ache in the morning. I notice this more every year.

One of the things I love most about this hobby is sharing it with my five year old. About once a week, I bring some of my cards out and lay them on the dining room table. Without fail, my five year old, within about ten minutes, comes up to me and says, "Um, dad? What are you doing?" I then begin to tell him about and show him my baseball cards. He has shown an interest and has since started "collecting" Chase Utley (his favorite player) cards. He has about 20 of them that he has in penny sleeves and hard holders.

He said he wants to go to the big card show at the Dulles expo center with me next month.

I am in heaven!

THIS, to me, is what's good with our hobby.

[Jim VB]

Thanks Rich. I probably would have missed it. If I can make it that Friday, I'll buy you lunch.



Edited to add: Before Leon gets to it... the parking???

[drc]

And don't forget that Net54 is the only place where you get to view my cryptic avatars

[Rich Klein]

Originally Posted by Jim VB

Rich,


Is there even one? I've lived here close to 5 years and have never gone to a show locally.

There aren't even many non-passable shows around here.

http://www.autographshow.com/ARLshow1004.html

This will be held Friday April 23-Sunday April 25 at the Arlington Convention Center. Expect about 50-75 dealer tables. I think the best vintage dealers who will be there are Roger Neufeuldt and Paul Sjolin.

So, mark this in your calendar. Last time I went; Friday was free admission because no one was signing and I had a blast and bought a few things. And Paul Sjolin related to me verbatim the 2009 National thread I had started a few days earlier.

Regards
Rich