That is probably because it is easy to get their items without being a member.
Is it? Please tell me how to get LCCA items without having to pay significant markups on the secondary market.
Same thing could/should apply to TCA, since there is no shortage of special items.
I just looked at the email for the TCA sponsored limited edition museum boxcar. There was no mention of having to be a TCA member to get one. Then I checked the museum store. No mention of having to be a TCA member to purchase a car.
I even started the checkout process, maybe I didn't go far enough.
To clarify my positions:
I don't expect the LCCA to open up their special items to the public.
I would rather the Eastern Division not open any of the York show to the public.
But since they decided it was the right thing to do, I hope they will continue to limit public access to the dealer halls, and do a better job promoting the public part in the future. And I believe that those dealers who are able should pitch in and spread the word about the show. After all, isn't this a change they requested?
