So now the Eastern Division Website is saying that all future York Dates are only Friday and Saturday. However, their Facebook post said October 2020 would still be Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Anyone from Eastern Division know which one is correct....their Facebook post or their website?
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I think the meet is going back to 2 day's after the 2019 October meet. That is just my guess.
I think your right because now their Facebook post says no change to the October meet but the 2020 is now gone. So it is just referencing this October and not 2020 that I swear it said yesterday.
Maybe if there had been enough of a time frame this October may have been just two days too. When I joined the TCA back in 1989 it was just two days. That was fine for me and it will be all right for me again. And if there is a possibilty it goes to once a year I can live with that too. I learned a long time ago nothing lasts forever. I enjoy it while it is here...................Paul 2
I started going the 1st 2 days and follow-up with 2 days of Gettysburg. Never gets old. This years investigation will be big and Little Round Top. 2 days of York usually drains my funds quite efficiently.
Very interesting. I suspect the Facebook post is correct and the October Meet will remain three days in the future, but who can be certain at this point. The ED will need to clarify its plans for the future, hopefully very soon.
I saw this. I guess York has returned to its roots. This definitely seals the fate of the Legacy meetings as they were. Looks like travel Thursday, York Friday, travel Friday evening. Doesn't matter. I'll be there.
Hopefully, the leadership of the Eastern Division will clear this up soon. Should be easy enough for them to do.
Hopefully the current lower attendance will make Friday bearable for someone like me...mainly just looking at stuff in all the halls. My "shopping list" usually has zero items on it (but I still drop $100. average). I remember the "old days" when I avoided the Red Hall because you could barely make your way down the aisles. And I don't remember as many electric carts back then (most of us attending were much younger ).
You might say, "Just go on Saturday". Sorry, but I get in annoyed when I see dealers packing up half way through the 9-4 day.
" I think your right because now their Facebook post says no change to the October meet but the 2020 is now gone. So it is just referencing this October and not 2020 that I swear it said yesterday."
It was like that yesterday. The schedule was revised sometime in the past 12 hours. October is still listed 17-19, everything after is listed as 2 day events.
That is what I think also. Yesterday morning the facebook post said October 2020 would be 3 days. I think this October will be the last 3 day event. I just wish someone from Eastern would answer an email or their facebook messages and let us know. As I said in another post people plan this trip up to a year in advance with vacation time, airfare, and hotel accommodations. October is coming up pretty quick so booking arrangements for 2020 isn't really that far off.
I wish they would update the York Meet Wrap Up page. They haven't posted the attendance numbers there for the last 4 meets.
I recall driving around the York County countryside in a convertible prior to the Spring TCA Meet some years ago. The aroma of fresh manure in the fields was invigorating.
Farmer_Bill posted:I recall driving around the York County countryside in a convertible prior to the Spring TCA Meet some years ago. The aroma of fresh manure in the fields was invigorating.
Was that on a Thursday or a Friday?
Okay, I just called the TCA business office and they had just found out yesterday. They have to update all their hand copies(paperwork) but the website is correct from what the nice lady on the other end said. So, as most have already speculated and or said, York will be Friday and Saturday going forward after this October's meet.
Farmer_Bill posted:I recall driving around the York County countryside in a convertible prior to the Spring TCA Meet some years ago. The aroma of fresh manure in the fields was invigorating.
Yes and to add to this don’t forget the fresh aroma in the Fall TCA meets of fresh cabbage being stomped into sauerkraut. Can’t get enough of that.
Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:I started going the 1st 2 days and follow-up with 2 days of Gettysburg. Never gets old. This years investigation will be big and Little Round Top. 2 days of York usually drains my funds quite efficiently.
I have been talking for the better part of 15 years about getting back out to Gettysburg, hadn't actually thought about York and Gettysburg. I'll have to keep that in mind now.
Unless some Eastern Division official posts otherwise, I think it would be wise to assume that this October's event will be three days, as it has been in recent years, and that going forward ALL York Meet events (April and October) will be Friday-Saturday events (as they were some years ago).
If that is not correct, someone in the Eastern Div. officer ranks should post here or notify me directly so I can correct my post.
Allan - do you envision the OGR dinner staying on Thursday night or moving to Friday night?
-Greg
Greg Houser posted:Allan - do you envision the OGR dinner staying on Thursday night or moving to Friday night?
-Greg
Not to answer for Allan but years ago when the meet was Friday and Saturday the dinner was always still on Thursday night. I would expect it to stay the same.
Allan Miller posted:Unless some Eastern Division official posts otherwise, I think it would be wise to assume that this October's event will be three days, as it has been in recent years, and that going forward ALL York Meet events (April and October) will be Friday-Saturday events (as they were some years ago).
If that is not correct, someone in the Eastern Div. officer ranks should post here or notify me directly so I can correct my post.
Yes Allan, this October is still 3 days. I called and posted above about that. As far as an official statement, maybe they will send out a newsletter to all members stating that.
Greg Houser posted:Allan - do you envision the OGR dinner staying on Thursday night or moving to Friday night?
-Greg
For this October (only), the OGR get-together at Quaker Steak & Lube will still be on Thursday evening. From that point forward, we'll just have to see what might work best. That's about all I can say at this point.
Eastern Division responded back to my inquiry and here is their direct response....
Bryan - October 2019 will be the usual 3 day event- Thursday, Friday & Saturday. The Board approved that April 2020 will be only 2 days - Friday & Saturday. We have a lot to investigate such as should we extend the times and when should vendors set up, etc. October 2020 has not been discussed- we wanted to wait and get reaction on April 2020 first. Thanks for your question.
Bryan in Ohio posted:Eastern Division responded back to my inquiry and here is their direct response....
. . . October 2020 has not been discussed- we wanted to wait and get reaction on April 2020 first. Thanks for your question.
Just a guess on my part, but I expect that if April 2020 is going to be used as something of a guide, you'll likely see the meet go to a two-day schedule from that point forward for both April and October. My feeling is that they will not see much of a turnout for April, but that is just a guess on my part and I could certainly be wrong. If it was my call, I would eliminate the April meet altogether and hold a three-day meet in October. But, again, I have no real say in that and will live with whatever the Eastern Div. folks decide. I enjoy going to York, and it has always been an enjoyable experience.
Allan Miller posted:Greg Houser posted:Allan - do you envision the OGR dinner staying on Thursday night or moving to Friday night?
-Greg
For this October (only), the OGR get-together at Quaker Steak & Lube will still be on Thursday evening. From that point forward, we'll just have to see what might work best. That's about all I can say at this point.
Thanks Allan. I was asking for planning purposes. I'll be there regardless of the day.
-Greg
Hey, we all managed to have fun back when it was two days before. We'll survive. Think about the Hotel money that you'll be able to spend on trains again.
York is always good (I've only missed three since '88).
jay jay posted:
It's not at the Viking Club any longer - but a remnant lives on at each and every York.
Great friends from across the country bonded together by AOL. Go figure .....
OGR dinner was always "Thursday Night at Friday's" until TGI Friday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Tuesday's" until Ruby Tuesday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Quaker Steak" (note the spelling). If they close, maybe that should be the end of it.
Stirling as emcee at the Viking Club was always lots of fun. Miss that guy!
Farmer_Bill posted:OGR dinner was always "Thursday Night at Friday's" until TGI Friday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Tuesday's" until Ruby Tuesday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Quaker Steak" (note the spelling). If they close, maybe that should be the end of it.
Stirling as emcee at the Viking Club was always lots of fun. Miss that guy!
I went through all my old pics of York dinners.....the 1st one I recorded was April 2009..... but it may have started earlier....I can't remember. I think it got going when we went to the 3 day format.
I suspect most of us want to be there for the opening bell on Friday.....then Thursday night is a good time.....I probably still will come up Weds nights and enjoy what's left of the Bandit Meets.
I will announce it now.....breakfast at Round-the-Clock will be 0700 on Fridays now....starting in April 2020.......the formal announcement for this year will be coming around the 1st of October....sneak peak: 0730-0800 start-up Thursday October 17 at the Round-the-Clock Diner Route 30 West (just east of the intersection with I-83).
Peter
Remember....whatever the York change is, we adapt and continue to enjoy it for as long as we can.
Putnam Division posted:Farmer_Bill posted:OGR dinner was always "Thursday Night at Friday's" until TGI Friday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Tuesday's" until Ruby Tuesday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Quaker Steak" (note the spelling). If they close, maybe that should be the end of it.
Stirling as emcee at the Viking Club was always lots of fun. Miss that guy!
I went through all my old pics of York dinners.....the 1st one I recorded was April 2009..... but it may have started earlier....I can't remember. I think it got going when we went to the 3 day format.
I suspect most of us want to be there for the opening bell on Friday.....then Thursday night is a good time.....I probably still will come up Weds nights and enjoy what's left of the Bandit Meets.
I will announce it now.....breakfast at Round-the-Clock will be 0700 on Fridays now....starting in April 2020.......the formal announcement for this year will be coming around the 1st of October....sneak peak: 0730-0800 start-up Thursday October 17 at the Round-the-Clock Diner Route 30 West (just east of the intersection with I-83).
Peter
Remember....whatever the York change is, we adapt and continue to enjoy it for as long as we can.
Is the OGR dinner the same as the forum dinner you are referring to Steve? I thought the Forum dinner was on Friday night. Is that still the case, or is the dinner Thursday night? If Thursday, We can make it. If Friday night, My wife and I will be in Gettysburg.
It's always been Thursday night.
artyoung posted:Hey, we all managed to have fun back when it was two days before. We'll survive. Think about the Hotel money that you'll be able to spend on trains again.
York is always good (I've only missed three since '88).
Agreed but we were alot younger then, it takes a little longer to walk all the halls now. Heck I'm only 45 and I take a few advil before heading out. Also hope they put some rocket boosters on all those scooters to speed them up so they don't slow down movement in the aisles since everyone will have to go through quicker. (Just kidding)
Bryan in Ohio posted:artyoung posted:Hey, we all managed to have fun back when it was two days before. We'll survive. Think about the Hotel money that you'll be able to spend on trains again.
York is always good (I've only missed three since '88).
Agreed but we were alot younger then, it takes a little longer to walk all the halls now. Heck I'm only 45 and I take a few advil before heading out. Also hope they put some rocket boosters on all those scooters to speed them up so they don't slow down movement in the aisles since everyone will have to go through quicker. (Just kidding)
No rocket boosters just open up the isles. Open up an additional building that was recently closed.
Peter, your reply jogged my brain and I remembered there were a couple OGR dinners at the Old Country Buffet. I had forgotten about that place -- it was pretty forgettable.
Off topic, but I wonder what became of the "open Yellow to HO dealers" idea?
Dead on the vine? No interest?
-Dave
The more I think about it the more I like the "throwback" Friday/Saturday setup at least for one of the two meets. I'm actually rethinking how I would attack this by traveling Friday Morning, staying over, visit back Saturday until 11 or so and head home. Or just do a one day trip. Still plenty of time to buy and visit. It certainly will be interesting to see how it all works out. If nothing else, at least 1 day will have good attendance. LOL! Maybe I'll line up at the CTT booth just for fun to get that coveted button.
I applaud the EDTCA to try to make the meet solvent. They could do nothing and it just goes away. Ultimately it is up to US to keep the meet going.
dkdkrd posted:
Maybe one of the silver linings in this cloud of change and uncertainty will be increased interest and membership focus on other regional meets.
Well, if "Spring" York goes away, there is still the Allentown Spring and Fall shows...for those of us in the Eastern Pennsylvania area. OGR breakfast, as well, early Saturday morning before the 8 am opening.
eddie g posted:It's always been Thursday night.
Allan referred to an OGR dinner. Are they one of the same dinner as the Forum dinner?
we will attend Thursday. Look forward to it,
Farmer_Bill posted:OGR dinner was always "Thursday Night at Friday's" until TGI Friday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Tuesday's" until Ruby Tuesday's closed, then it was "Thursday Night at Quaker Steak" (note the spelling). If they close, maybe that should be the end of it.
Speak for yourself, why eliminate it just because the days change? You suddenly don't like the guys that come to the dinner because it's not on Thursday?
York is no different than any other flea market or event where products are sold. It all comes down to economics 101; to make a profit based upon supply and demand. Isn't that why the vendors exhibit there?
Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:Allan referred to an OGR dinner. Are they one of the same dinner as the Forum dinner?
we will attend Thursday. Look forward to it,
There is only one OGR dinner/gathering/drinkfest or whatever. It was/is traditionally held on Thursday evenings. For some years it was a bit more "formally" organized, but in recent times has been more of an informal gathering where folks just show up after a day of shopping at the meet and get together with friends, old and new, who also happen to be OGR Forum members, readers of the magazine, or just anyone who may want to associate with such characters. The restaurant adjacent to the Best Western has undergone several changes of ownership over the years, but I believe it is still a Quaker Steak & Lube.
I remember going to my first Thursday's at Friday's and asking "Who's Farmer Bill"? I think that was in 2004. Been going ever since.
Jim D.
Allan Miller posted:Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:Allan referred to an OGR dinner. Are they one of the same dinner as the Forum dinner?
we will attend Thursday. Look forward to it,
There is only one OGR dinner/gathering/drinkfest or whatever. It was/is traditionally held on Thursday evenings. For some years it was a bit more "formally" organized, but in recent times has been more of an informal gathering where folks just show up after a day of shopping at the meet and get together with friends, old and new, who also happen to be OGR Forum members, readers of the magazine, or just anyone who may want to associate with such characters. The restaurant adjacent to the Best Western has undergone several changes of ownership over the years, but I believe it is still a Quaker Steak & Lube.
As long as I get to see your cheerful expression when talking to me Allan, that would be all I need(and Guinness). Whatever days get changed, we'll all still be there one way or another.
Who is John Galt?
Good Q.
Farmer_Bill posted:Who is John Galt?
A character in Atlas Shrugged. In short, he resisted a government that wanted to tell you what to think.
Now the question is, When do the doors open with the new dates? 9AM or 12NOON?
laz1957 posted:Now the question is, When do the doors open with the new dates? 9AM or 12NOON?
Assuming they don't alter what was distributed with the survey, I posted the hours that matched the Friday-Saturday combination here.
Summary : Fri 9-6 (9-5 member halls), Sat 9-3 (both dealer and member). Setup on Thursday (12-5 member, 9-7 dealer)
-Dave
I really like the half day Thursday. Eliminating it is a bummer for me. I traveled the 5 hours Thursday morning for the noon open. Came back Friday for half a day plus. The city of York is going to lose a bunch on me, no fancy hotel and dinner on Thursday night with the wife. I’ll drive down Thursday later in the day and stay with my brother-in-law. All day Friday at the show will be tough for me and my wife now that we are older. Two half days were better for us oldsters. After the Friday show, we will return to my brother-in-law’s. No Saturday, my brother-in-law is not that close.
shorling posted:I really like the half day Thursday. Eliminating it is a bummer for me. I traveled the 5 hours Thursday morning for the noon open. Came back Friday for half a day plus. The city of York is going to lose a bunch on me, no fancy hotel and dinner on Thursday night with the wife. I’ll drive down Thursday later in the day and stay with my brother-in-law. All day Friday at the show will be tough for me and my wife now that we are older. Two half days were better for us oldsters. After the Friday show, we will return to my brother-in-law’s. No Saturday, my brother-in-law is not that close.
Don't give up the ghost yet. As Bryan from Ohio reported in an earlier post in this thread, ED has not decided the days and hours beyond the April 2020 York Meet.
I know, Joe H, I was just funning on Jim D.
irish rifle posted:shorling posted:I really like the half day Thursday. Eliminating it is a bummer for me. I traveled the 5 hours Thursday morning for the noon open. Came back Friday for half a day plus. The city of York is going to lose a bunch on me, no fancy hotel and dinner on Thursday night with the wife. I’ll drive down Thursday later in the day and stay with my brother-in-law. All day Friday at the show will be tough for me and my wife now that we are older. Two half days were better for us oldsters. After the Friday show, we will return to my brother-in-law’s. No Saturday, my brother-in-law is not that close.
Don't give up the ghost yet. As Bryan from Ohio reported in an earlier post in this thread, ED has not decided the days and hours beyond the April 2020 York Meet.
Thanks for the up lift !! I went on the ED web site. They are still showing 3 days for all future shows including this April 2020 ?
Attachments
shorling posted:irish rifle posted:shorling posted:I really like the half day Thursday. Eliminating it is a bummer for me. I traveled the 5 hours Thursday morning for the noon open. Came back Friday for half a day plus. The city of York is going to lose a bunch on me, no fancy hotel and dinner on Thursday night with the wife. I’ll drive down Thursday later in the day and stay with my brother-in-law. All day Friday at the show will be tough for me and my wife now that we are older. Two half days were better for us oldsters. After the Friday show, we will return to my brother-in-law’s. No Saturday, my brother-in-law is not that close.
Don't give up the ghost yet. As Bryan from Ohio reported in an earlier post in this thread, ED has not decided the days and hours beyond the April 2020 York Meet.
Thanks for the up lift !! I went on the ED web site. They are still showing 3 days for all future shows including this April 2020 ?
Here is the exact post from Bryan that contains the response from the Eastern Division. In a nutshell, no decision has been made by the ED Board about the length of the York Meets after the April 2020 Meet. What is listed on the ED website for Meets after that time is just a placeholder.
"Eastern Division responded back to my inquiry and here is their direct response....
Bryan - October 2019 will be the usual 3 day event- Thursday, Friday & Saturday. The Board approved that April 2020 will be only 2 days - Friday & Saturday. We have a lot to investigate such as should we extend the times and when should vendors set up, etc. October 2020 has not been discussed- we wanted to wait and get reaction on April 2020 first. Thanks for your question.
Bryan"
Farmer_Bill posted:I know, Joe H, I was just funning on Jim D.
I know. Just enlightening Eddie.
Some would say York is already a 2-day show. I've never even gone on Saturday, and apparently I'm not alone. I always hear how sparsely attended Saturday is, with dealers using most of the day to pack up, and leaving early, notwithstanding Eastern's finger-wagging and threats of never-imposed sanctions.
So, I'm not thinking the meet will look much different to a lot of people--they'll just go on Fri-Sat, instead of Thurs-Fri--but it should be easier on the dealers, which I think will be a win for everyone.
nickaix posted:
So, I'm not thinking the meet will look much different to a lot of people--they'll just go on Fri-Sat, instead of Thurs-Fri--but it should be easier on the dealers, which I think will be a win for everyone.
The meet WILL look a bit different in that the previous headcount of Thursday and Friday will now be combined on Friday. Saturday will most likely remain the same. I wish you were correct, but when they added Thursday to the mix, I did notice less of a "mob scene", especially in the Red Hall. I may be wrong, but I doubt if many would pay the cost of a overnight stay just to attend on Saturday.
It really depends on how many people (like myself) only attend for one day, or how many "2-day" people only go through a particular hall once.
Joe Hohmann posted:nickaix posted:
So, I'm not thinking the meet will look much different to a lot of people--they'll just go on Fri-Sat, instead of Thurs-Fri--but it should be easier on the dealers, which I think will be a win for everyone.
The meet WILL look a bit different in that the previous headcount of Thursday and Friday will now be combined on Friday. Saturday will most likely remain the same. I wish you were correct, but when they added Thursday to the mix, I did notice less of a "mob scene", especially in the Red Hall. I may be wrong, but I doubt if many would pay the cost of a overnight stay just to attend on Saturday.
It really depends on how many people (like myself) only attend for one day, or how many "2-day" people only go through a particular hall once.
For those of you who attended back when York was a 2 day meet, what was traffic like at the end of the meet on Friday if you tried to go East on Rt30 out of York? I've had to leave around 1 or 2 pm some Fridays the last few years and traffic was pretty bad. I hate to think of what it would be like at 5 or 6 pm on a Friday. Since I'll still be staying overnight on Thursday for the OGR Dinner and to get to breakfast Friday morning without having to get up at 4 am, I may be one of the few people for which going to a 2 day meet will cost me more money...lol
-Greg
Greg Houser posted:For those of you who attended back when York was a 2 day meet, what was traffic like at the end of the meet on Friday if you tried to go East on Rt30 out of York?
-Greg
As you likely know, traffic is ALWAYS bad on U.S. 30. There is no especially good time, aside from between 2 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., but yes, Friday afternoon and evening is and was pretty bad until you get well out of York.
Joe Hohmann posted:nickaix posted:
So, I'm not thinking the meet will look much different to a lot of people--they'll just go on Fri-Sat, instead of Thurs-Fri--but it should be easier on the dealers, which I think will be a win for everyone.
The meet WILL look a bit different in that the previous headcount of Thursday and Friday will now be combined on Friday. Saturday will most likely remain the same. I wish you were correct, but when they added Thursday to the mix, I did notice less of a "mob scene", especially in the Red Hall. I may be wrong, but I doubt if many would pay the cost of a overnight stay just to attend on Saturday.
It really depends on how many people (like myself) only attend for one day, or how many "2-day" people only go through a particular hall once.
I suspect there aren't many folks who just go for Thursday. If that's the case, the headcount on Friday maybe relatively unchanged if Thursday is eliminated. The existing show is basically a two day show spread over 3 days (can't really count Saturday afternoon). So if your someone who is selling, eliminating Thursday results in 25% less face time with the target buyer audience. Now you could argue that people come with a list and they are going buy the list even if Thursday is eliminated. But there is a lot of spontaneous buying that goes on and 25% less buying time is going to result in lower sales. I don't see how that's a step in right direction for folks who want to increase sales ?
I certainly hope this gets straightened out pronto by the Eastern Division. This affects a lot of businesses, logistics, and potential consumers.
If any Eastern Division officers are reading this, the publication of an official, decisive, correct, and final determination would be highly appreciated.
George
G3750 posted:I certainly hope this gets straightened out pronto by the Eastern Division. This affects a lot of businesses, logistics, and potential consumers.
If any Eastern Division officers are reading this, the publication of an official, decisive, correct, and final determination would be highly appreciated.
George
I'm not sure what needs to be straightened out. The EDTCA home page clearly states the dates on the bottom left. What more do they need to say or did I miss something (which is VERY possible?)
Chris Lord posted:G3750 posted:I certainly hope this gets straightened out pronto by the Eastern Division. This affects a lot of businesses, logistics, and potential consumers.
If any Eastern Division officers are reading this, the publication of an official, decisive, correct, and final determination would be highly appreciated.
George
I'm not sure what needs to be straightened out. The EDTCA home page clearly states the dates on the bottom left. What more do they need to say or did I miss something (which is VERY possible?)
Agreed. I think the previous poster may have missed some other thread(s) posted on the current York Meet plans.
Next month remains a 3-day event and then it moves to 2 days, beginning in April, 2020 (Friday and Saturday). And EDTCA will continue to evaluate, as needed, as we move forward.
At least that's my take.
Right?
The confusion persists because different information sources say different things:
1) the EDTCA web page that shows ALL Aprill 2020 and onward meets as only 2 days.
2) EDTCA responding to someone's email inquiry, stating it's just April 2020 until they see how that goes: https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/...26#98006844801082026
3) the EDTCA York Facebook page, which states April 2020 is 2 days, not that all meets are 2 days: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Yo...s/?ref=page_internal
So one of these three sources has to be wrong. I tend to believe the person who updated and changed all the dates in the future to 2 dates jumped the gun. Why it hasn't been changed back, if that is correct, (it was changed so quickly that it could easily have been adjusted again at this point) is a mystery. Unless the EDTCA rep who responded to the email was entirely wrong.
I guess it depends how you take the announcement. I always looked at "we will see" as : "We are still on 3 days for everything beyond April 2020 unless you hear otherwise". Based on reading John's post right above this one, I guess it's possible to take it as "We changed it to 2 days for April 2020, and it stays at 2, unless we evaluate and decide it makes sense to go back to 3"
As stated : confusion. Don't worry, I'm sure there will be lots of clear, concise, unambiguous PA announcements at the meet next month to clear it all up.
-Dave
There is nothing clear about the coming change other than more than one entity at the EDTCA seems to be making statements about the show. I'm looking at the website and what I get out of the president's statement is York will be 2 days going forward from April 2020. This is also reflected in the posted dates that go through October 2023. And, yes, I saw the post that said April 2020 is supposed to be an experiment with the 2 day format. Also there is nothing new on the EDTCA facebook page since it was announced back on 08-25-19.
Thank you Dave.
Indeed, getting different messages on different media is the issue. All I am saying is that “Ready, Fire, Aim” is not a strategy for success.
George
What will happen to the LCCA dinner at Smoky Bones on Wednesdays? and does this mean the bandit meets will return on a large scale? And how about the Wednesday open house at the TCA museum?
OK for next April, but all the motels need to know whether or not to jack-up their room rates for Wed. night for future meets.
MIKATT1 posted:What will happen to the LCCA dinner at Smoky Bones on Wednesdays? and does this mean the bandit meets will return on a large scale? And how about the Wednesday open house at the TCA museum?
The TCA Museum open house events used to be on Thursday before the meet went to three days, it would be logical to assume it will return to that schedule for any meet that ends up being only Friday/Saturday.
-Dave
I hate to see Thursdays go. We drive 2 days to get to York and it is great to be able to go in at noon on Thursday. We go to the orange hall that day and the member halls on Friday and then in afternoon on Friday back to orange to make our purchases and pick up previous purchases. Been to 14 strait meets but will cut back to only fall meet and maybe only every 2 years or so just have to see how it goes. Really when they go to 2 days they are really going to one . Saturday is really dead with the member halls packing up. Its hard for me to get everything in basically in a one day meet. I guess if that happens Ill spend my time in the orange and purple hall.
farmerjohn posted:I hate to see Thursdays go. We drive 2 days to get to York and it is great to be able to go in at noon on Thursday. We go to the orange hall that day and the member halls on Friday and then in afternoon on Friday back to orange to make our purchases and pick up previous purchases. Been to 14 strait meets but will cut back to only fall meet and maybe only every 2 years or so just have to see how it goes. Really when they go to 2 days they are really going to one . Saturday is really dead with the member halls packing up. Its hard for me to get everything in basically in a one day meet. I guess if that happens Ill spend my time in the orange and purple hall.
Don't hoist the white flag yet. ED has made no decision beyond the April 2020 Meet, as has been reported previously. Here's hoping that the October Meets continue to include Thursdays.
Pat
irish rifle posted:Don't hoist the white flag yet. ED has made no decision beyond the April 2020 Meet, as has been reported previously. Here's hoping that the October Meets continue to include Thursdays.
Pat
It's also important to note that that specific idea was one of the options sent in the survey to table holders and dealers, so it is not too far fetched to think it could go that way (2 days every April, 3 days every October) in the future.
-Dave
Joe Hohmann posted:OK for next April, but all the motels need to know whether or not to jack-up their room rates for Wed. night for future meets.
Shhh - don't say anything
farmerjohn posted:I hate to see Thursdays go. We drive 2 days to get to York and it is great to be able to go in at noon on Thursday. We go to the orange hall that day and the member halls on Friday and then in afternoon on Friday back to orange to make our purchases and pick up previous purchases. Been to 14 strait meets but will cut back to only fall meet and maybe only every 2 years or so just have to see how it goes. Really when they go to 2 days they are really going to one . Saturday is really dead with the member halls packing up. Its hard for me to get everything in basically in a one day meet. I guess if that happens Ill spend my time in the orange and purple hall.
It's a one-day drive for me, but my process and feelings about it are similar to yours.
I like the current format because it spreads the crowds out. It's easier to navigate the halls, and as a result it's easier to spend money. I wonder how many people will spend less money if the meet is changed back to Friday/Saturday. And a two-day meet will allow less time for visiting with other members.
In my thinking, it's a 2 day meet going to 1. I never counted "Pack Up" Saturday.
Seeing EDDIEM's post about camping details (and his reference to "the last 3 day York meet" at the end of his post) caused me to re-visit the York FB page, the text has now been updated as follows:
"Your Board of Directors recently voted to hold the SPRING 2020 YORK SHOW to two (2) days and all future shows to FRIDAY & SATURDAY. This decision was based responses from both vendors and attendees alike. NOTE - NO CHANGE FOR OCTOBER - STILL 3 DAYS THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY. Watch for further details."
There is also a reply to a question under that post from only 2 days ago, now seeming to confirm the plan is for only 2 days for ALL meets:
So while perhaps unfortunate, it seems the decision has in fact been made to reduce to only 2 days for every meet at this point.
(though there is also a confusing response (also from only 2 days ago) with a simple "that is correct" response when someone (might be our Bryan in Ohio, same spelling?) asked a question regarding no change for October 2019 and 2020, so they still managed to sneak an ambiguity into the updated responses.)
So either things have changed based on the on-line reactions received, or that original email response that Bryan in Ohio received regarding seeing how April goes before making further decisions was just an error. (I would have assumed "wait for reaction" might have included the meet actually happening and seeing how attendance changed and/or the observables regarding how the meet goes in April, but that might be me misunderstanding the intent of that response)
It would be nice if the EDTCA would have either:
a) put a new post on the top of their FB page (which would reflect the new date, rather than retaining the original one from the stale 8/25 post - I'm not FB expert, but I don't know how to tell the original is edited) to acknowledge the original error, or
b) sent a quick and concise message to a few major magazines (thinking OGR and CTT, maybe a few others focused on scales other than O) so that a post could be created calling this to everyone's attention, or
c) followed up to the original email distribution for the survey (or even better to all member email addresses on file) with this clarification.
In any event, I'll still add a "Thank You" to all the people who run the meet, and I'll likely still participate every 6 months, though possibly without bothering with getting a table. (Still being a shopper, I would like more than one hour on a single day to view dealer halls once the member halls close)
-Dave
Attachments
Well, I guess we will see how this works. I doubt that it will work well for me. I've enjoyed the 25 years I've been going to York. I think I've gotten to all 50 in that time period, maybe a couple as a one day trip. One of the biggest highlights for me has been the OGR dinner. I really do thank OGR for that. I guess that will disappear also. It's been a great run.
Gerry
Everyone does remember when York was Friday and Saturday only, right?
I started to go to York with the two day meets. Then the three day meets. I will continue with the two day meets.
I often arrived on Thursday, and stayed over for Friday. Now, there is nothing much for me to stay over for that is worth the expense (certainly not to watch dealers packing up starting at 11 am on Saturday).
When I was at my LTS this past Saturday he had said to me if I heard. I said yes, that's what it used to be to which he said yes. Regardless of how many days it is, if you're not coming because of the changes other than it being an it being inconvenient, that I understand. If it is to snub them, I can understand that too. Myself, I will go to have fun, that's what I will do.
I started going to York in 1983 when it was a two-day meet. I have been going to the three-day meets. I will continue to go to the two-day meets as long as I can breathe.
Do I like the three-day meets? Absolutely! However, I can see the Eastern division's dilemma. Costs are skyrocketing everywhere. We have a decreasing membership base. Yes, the Eastern division rents the York Fairgrounds for the entire week. However, the cost between the two day meet in the three day meeI it is substantial. Let's look at one aspect of cost (there are many others, I'm sure).
Even though I am a physician, I am really a small business owner. The most expensive item on my practice's ledger is personnel. Think of the savings that the Eastern division is going to have by only having to cover two days worth of Hall security guards and only paying for the medical backup for two days. The cost savings will be substantial.
One might say "cut back on the numbers of personnel". However, we have to have these people. The place needs security. Certainly, with the age demographics of our fellow members (me included. When I started to go to York, I was 30. Now I am 66), we need the medical backup. It frankly just saves lives.
My opinion: York will change and we will adapt so that we will continue to have a great time.
My bag is packed. See you all in a few weeks.
Peter
There's no point in worrying about future train meet dates. I'm sure the dates will be correct when the York meet notice comes in the mail.
I wonder if the public will be allowed in with the members on Friday under the new format?
PETER, 17 days till York week. I can almost smell the breakfast at Round the Clock.
I had some correspondence with the Eastern Div meet folks. The plan going forward is for 2 day York meets, Friday/Saturday. This Fall may be the very last 3 day York meet.
Jim
MartyE posted:Everyone does remember when York was Friday and Saturday only, right?
Yes. And we'll all survive with a return to the two-day event.
Our group had a great schedule with the Friday-Saturday Meet "back in the day" - so, we'll just return to that schedule (or find something new, different, worthwhile) of things to do.
aussteve posted:
I wonder if the public will be allowed in with the members on Friday under the new format?
All 30 of them.
Maybe all 20 of them.
I can live with the 2 day event PROVIDED!!! Saturday is for the full time. There are always threats to the people with tables who pack up early, but nothing is really done. That situation where 3 things are on the table till the end is BS. As we age, getting to all halls is getting more difficult in just 2 days. I imagine most of the suggestions to go back to 2 days are those who just want to get there, get it over with and go home. OK that's my 2 cents worth.
caboose1 posted:I can live with the 2 day event PROVIDED!!! Saturday is for the full time. There are always threats to the people with tables who pack up early, but nothing is really done. That situation where 3 things are on the table till the end is BS. As we age, getting to all halls is getting more difficult in just 2 days. I imagine most of the suggestions to go back to 2 days are those who just want to get there, get it over with and go home. OK that's my 2 cents worth.
Can I get an amen, brother!
I don't know how to really enforce staying until the end, but I think it's the right thing to do. At the last 2-day York that I attended, my recollection is that Saturday was fairly busy until noon-ish, but maybe my memory isn't so good.
And if anyone wants to "get there, get it over with and go home", why are they going in the first place?
Mallard4468 posted:if anyone wants to "get there, get it over with and go home", why are they going in the first place?
Most go to sell stuff, but SOME go to 1. Show off the "valuable" stuff they have. The same stuff that has been overpriced since the 1980s. 2. The ones that are there to "socialize", and talk about the good old days. 3. The ones getting away from a nagging wife. They may have told her that they were going on their bi-annual religious retreat. 4. Some look like they are bored to tears by 1 pm on Thursday. They are the ones who REALLY want a 2-day meet.
Listening to the EDTCA President Dan Danielson during his pre show announcements last Thursday, it was announced that all shows going forward from last week will be 2 day shows. There was an statement made sometime over the past 2 months that April 2020 was going to be an experiment, but that now doesn't seem to be the place. I'm going to miss the Thursday start.
Communicated with Eastern Division - 2 day shows going forward, no test anymore.
Jim
I may have missed it, what will be the opening hours for the two days?
9:00 AM
Should make it Thursday and Friday and dump Saturday. All the folks that say they have to work don’t justify the lack attendance on Saturday.
Just my opinion. Regardless thanks to the EDTCA for a great time!
If it’s only 2 days, will that help stop vendors packing up early? I was there on Saturday morning in the red hall and also orange hall some people were already packing up before noon. One vendor was one I was coming back to to buy diecast. As a result I couldn’t buy as he had packed up 2/3 if his display. As a first timer, we hadn’t made it yet to all of the vendors on Thursday and Friday and frankly it took away from the experience a bit on Saturday. At our local shows there is a strictly enforced policy on this. I could understand if it was in the last hour, but this was before lunch. I see it as a missed opportunity for those vendors and as an attendee I didn’t like it. Just my 2 cents....
The rest was awesome!!!
Marty, I agree with you. I have mentioned that several times in the past couple of years to Debbie Geiser. I believe it is too late now. Saturday is a waste.
1) disappointed with change to 2 days, but will still go
2) 3 days allowed a more enjoyable leisurely experience, time to socialize, ability to get to all the halls
3) 2 days means I will probably not cover all the halls, which means less purchases by me, and perhaps others.
4) they could enforce the "no early pack up" in all halls... they all have hall monitors. If you pack up early, you cannot sell at the next meet.
5) regarding #4, if some are penalized, maybe they will shut down one of the halls, which means less cost for security and more consolidated browsing (no more Brown hall - I really don't miss it! Still plenty to shop)
OR...
what Marty said...
I agree with Eddie. Saturday is a disappointment for everyone right now. Maybe it will become worthwhile over time. But for me traveling 7 to 8 hours one way from N.C. ,and two nights in a hotel, for what is essentially a one day meet doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Looks like I will have to try to combine a visit with the grandkids in the DC area and a day at the meet for it to make any sense.
One of the eastern division officers indicated to me that while both meets in 2020 will be two days, they may reevaluate that policy going forward. Not sure what would cause them to back to three days though at this point.
Pete
Saturday was always our travel home day. The new 2 day really makes it a one day affair. So we should spend a full day of driving each way to see a one day show. Not me. Make it a Thursday/ Friday affair, dump Saturday. Let everyone pack and go home for the weekend.
The "Saturday is a waste" idea seems to be a self-fulfilling catch 22 prophecy these days.
Some sellers say to themselves "no one here buying so I'm packing up early" (ignoring that people can't be everywhere at one time, and it takes time to see the halls, as Gerhardt mentions above). Some sellers tend to evaluate based on foot traffic over an hour's time, and decide to give up and start packing it up (or even totally bail) in the early hours.
Buyers then say "Why do I want to bother going on Saturday, with everyone packing up or gone?".
Repeat. And it all comes true that way and Saturday continues to be a waste. This drove me nuts too when I was a buyer. Sellers say "well you should have come earlier". Well, I was there earlier, but you can't see the whole Fairgrounds in one hour to peruse every table in the first 1 1/2 hours of the meet.
HOPEFULLY, the change means people give Saturday another chance. It might actually be busier without Thursday leading off. But it won't be if everyone has already decided that Saturday will still be a waste before even giving it a chance.
There were probably people who didn't stay for Saturday back when it used to be just Friday and Saturday, but I suspect there were a lot more who stuck around than there are now. I don't think it will ever return to the levels of those days, but hopefully this makes Saturday better.
As for me, with my small table setup, I sold 4 pieces (marketed and sold as 2 pairs actually, so really 2 sales - though I had single pricing available as well) of rolling stock on Saturday that I wanted gone. My other sales were all on Friday, I sold absolutely nothing on Thursday. $$-wise, probably about 35% of my take home was those Saturday sales. So I'm glad I was there, and the people who bought my items seemed happy with the prices they paid.
I did have a buyer who I had sold a few small items in the past wander past my table in the last half hour or so. While I had started packing a little bit, I still had everything not yet sold on the table (I had put stuff back in shipping cartons though). So I told him what was in all the boxes (recognizing him, but not remembering if it was from earlier this meet or previous ones when we had interacted). He only had a chance to attend on Saturday.
As a seller who still likes to participate in the buying side of the transaction as well, my bigger concern is the lack of time after Member halls close to go browse the Dealer halls.
In the 3 day format, we had 1 1/2 hours on both Thursday and Friday (5PM - 6:30 PM). (and there is a chance it used to actually be 2 hours, didn't the Dealer halls used to close at 7 pm years ago? (I need to find an old meet flyer)).
The new hours I am pretty sure end at 6 PM for Dealer halls on Friday, and on Saturday I don't think there is any time at all. I believe both Member and Dealer halls close at the exact same time. This is not good, IMO. I'm not sure it's worth having a table when I have only one hour to browse on Friday after the Member halls close. I'm pretty sure I'll still do it for April, but after that is to be determined.
-Dave
I had tables in the blue hall for over 25 years when the meet was just Friday and Saturday. Saturday was very dead back then too.
I had a fairly lengthy telephone call with Eastern Division President Dan Danielson a couple of days before the October Meet. Highlights of that call follow.
Dan initially indicated that only three decisions have been made by the Eastern Division regarding the York Meets. First, the April 2020 Meet will be Friday and Saturday. (Friday and Saturday hours in the dealer and member halls will be the same as they have been under the three-day Meet schedule.) Second, there will continue to be April and October Meets each year. Third, the Eastern Division was not prepared to keep the current three-day format for a once-a-year October Meet, although that alternative was raised by a number of individuals, including myself.
Dan indicated that the Eastern Division is very interested in getting input concerning the format of future York Meets from any and all TCA members and dealers who are interested, and from all TCA Divisions, not just the Eastern Division. I belong to METCA. Dan further indicated that the Eastern Division is also reaching out to the four manufacturers, as no approach concerning future York Meets will work unless the manufacturers are all in. Dan also indicated that it is entirely possible that the Eastern Division will go back to a three-day Meet format in the future, although it might be Friday, Saturday and Sunday, rather than Thursday, Friday and Saturday. (Like others, I was surprised when Dan indicated at the commencement of the Meet on Friday that the two-day format was a permanent decision, but I suspect he was just echoing the "party line" unless and until a different decision is made.)
Two final points. First, Dan indicated that the Eastern Division's principal concern is attracting more members of the public to the York Meets and then converting them to become members, as the membership in the TCA ages and continues to decline, and will not be replenished from within. They figure that the best way to get the public there is on the weekends. Second, the Eastern Division recognizes that they have to advertise the Meets better than they have in the past, and in that regard they will be working with the Worlds Greatest Hobby Show principals to develop a marketing plan. This is very encouraging, as the Eastern Division has been unwilling to engage in such efforts in the past.
irish rifle posted:I had a fairly lengthy telephone call with Eastern Division President Dan Danielson a couple of days before the October Meet. Highlights of that call follow.
Dan initially indicated that only three decisions have been made by the Eastern Division regarding the York Meets. First, the April 2020 Meet will be Friday and Saturday. (Friday and Saturday hours in the dealer and member halls will be the same as they have been under the three-day Meet schedule.) Second, there will continue to be April and October Meets each year. Third, the Eastern Division was not prepared to keep the current three-day format for a once-a-year October Meet, although that alternative was raised by a number of individuals, including myself............
That's interesting, as the only option presented in the survey email (that matches Friday/Saturday) indicated that the Friday/Saturday hours would be Fri 9-6 dealers, 9-5 members, and Sat 9-3 both dealers and members.
That's NOT the same as what we had recently, including last week. We had 1 1/2 hours of time after member halls closed on Friday to visit dealer halls, and one hour on Saturday (members closed at 2, dealers at 3).
On a totally side note, re new memberships: One could argue from the issuing of new TCA numbers that people joining over the last 20 years has not been a problem. The problem is getting people to stay and also participate in events like York. A little over 20 years ago there were about 45-50,000 members. That was when the organization was a little over 40 years old. It's now 20 years later (organization now 65 years old), and I'm pretty sure we are around 74-75000 or so in the TCA numbers being issued (didn't have the latest HQ News handy, but I see high 73,000 numbers in one from early this year). So while not door-busting numbers, the issuance of new numbers seems at least on par on a new members per year basis (some being trial members - which is of course a new thing).
Of course eBay is a lot bigger than it was 20 years ago, and many people are either no longer able to participate or passing due to age, none of which anything can be done about.
-Dave
Dave NYC Hudson PRR K4 posted:Allan Miller posted:Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:Allan referred to an OGR dinner. Are they one of the same dinner as the Forum dinner?
we will attend Thursday. Look forward to it,
There is only one OGR dinner/gathering/drinkfest or whatever. It was/is traditionally held on Thursday evenings. For some years it was a bit more "formally" organized, but in recent times has been more of an informal gathering where folks just show up after a day of shopping at the meet and get together with friends, old and new, who also happen to be OGR Forum members, readers of the magazine, or just anyone who may want to associate with such characters. The restaurant adjacent to the Best Western has undergone several changes of ownership over the years, but I believe it is still a Quaker Steak & Lube.
As long as I get to see your cheerful expression when talking to me Allan, that would be all I need(and Guinness). Whatever days get changed, we'll all still be there one way or another.
I can see why you'd need the Guinness.
George
MartyE posted:Should make it Thursday and Friday and dump Saturday. All the folks that say they have to work don’t justify the lack attendance on Saturday.
Just my opinion. Regardless thanks to the EDTCA for a great time!
I sort of agree. However, I can see people starting to pack up at noon on Friday.
irish rifle posted:
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Two final points. First, Dan indicated that the Eastern Division's principal concern is attracting more members of the public to the York Meets and then converting them to become members, as the membership in the TCA ages and continues to decline, and will not be replenished from within. They figure that the best way to get the public there is on the weekends. Second, the Eastern Division recognizes that they have to advertise the Meets better than they have in the past, and in that regard they will be working with the Worlds Greatest Hobby Show principals to develop a marketing plan. This is very encouraging, as the Eastern Division has been unwilling to engage in such efforts in the past.
If attracting the public truly is the goal, then Saturday should be a full day (9-5) for the dealer halls. These are already open to the public, dealers are paying their employees, etc. - that should be used to full advantage. Advertising to the public is also less than adequate.
I am glad to see the Eastern Division addressing these issues. I love going to York and will continue to attend regardless of format.
George
Just recently joined on October 2nd and TCA # is 19-74482 to give reference to above. Got away from the hobby for about 20 years and lived 45 minutes from York during that time period. Now back in the hobby and live in California without a fully finished basement which would of been ideal for layout. My timing has never been all that great.
I hope to make it York for the first time perhaps in the Spring.
G3750 posted:irish rifle posted:
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Two final points. First, Dan indicated that the Eastern Division's principal concern is attracting more members of the public to the York Meets and then converting them to become members, as the membership in the TCA ages and continues to decline, and will not be replenished from within. They figure that the best way to get the public there is on the weekends. Second, the Eastern Division recognizes that they have to advertise the Meets better than they have in the past, and in that regard they will be working with the Worlds Greatest Hobby Show principals to develop a marketing plan. This is very encouraging, as the Eastern Division has been unwilling to engage in such efforts in the past.
If attracting the public truly is the goal, then Saturday should be a full day (9-5) for the dealer halls. These are already open to the public, dealers are paying their employees, etc. - that should be used to full advantage. Advertising to the public is also less than adequate.
I am glad to see the Eastern Division addressing these issues. I love going to York and will continue to attend regardless of format.
George
If the management is serious about attracting the public and and younger members, this is the bare minimum that needs to happen. Speaking as someone who attended their first York meet this past weekend (is also 31 and have attended many conventions and shows that are not train-related), the whole show is a mess in IMHO. Specifically the organization of the show and the public outreach, not necessarily the amount of dealers or product available. It was incredibly obvious that the best way to experience York was to already be familiar with it, and that this insular in-group dynamic is encouraged. This has to change if you want to attract the public (or not, but then you can't claim that you are interested in the public or new members).
Just guessing but.....maybe a 2 or 3 day (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) all scales show open to the public. Need layouts and heavy advertising for success. Not sure how my O gauge needs fit into that ? Advanced dealers list would be important. After all, I'm not going to drive 5 hours one way if I can't satisfy my wants list. Also, Friday would be important to me since I spend the weekend visiting (2 hours away from York) my brother-in-law and my nephew.
If you didn't like the meet, don't come back. I don't care if NO public comes. It's the greatest meet in the world.
jjwyatt posted:Just recently joined on October 2nd and TCA # is 19-74482 to give reference to above. Got away from the hobby for about 20 years and lived 45 minutes from York during that time period. Now back in the hobby and live in California without a fully finished basement which would of been ideal for layout. My timing has never been all that great.
I hope to make it York for the first time perhaps in the Spring.
I can relate! I lived a half hour from Charles Ro (and 6 hour drive from York) for 10 years and the whole time I didn't know O Gauge from a hole in the ground. I moved a 1200 miles west and THEN decided to see what this train thing was all about.
If down to a two day celebration, will Saturday's hours run longer, l hope, l hope.
colorado hirailer posted:If down to a two day celebration, will Saturday's hours run longer, l hope, l hope.
The hours could be set to 6 pm, and the packing up would still begin at 11 am.
On another subject...could someone tell me what "advertising to the public" has actually been done? Anything?
And if dealers were heard complaining about the meet going to only 1 1/2 days, why did it? I assumed the dealers wishes were in back of this decision by the ED.
Joe Hohmann posted:colorado hirailer posted:If down to a two day celebration, will Saturday's hours run longer, l hope, l hope.
The hours could be set to 6 pm, and the packing up would still begin at 11 am.
On another subject...could someone tell me what "advertising to the public" has actually been done? Anything?
And if dealers were heard complaining about the meet going to only 1 1/2 days, why did it? I assumed the dealers wishes were in back of this decision by the ED.
I've seen social media posts from the TCA and the major manufacturers as well as vendors about the meet. The problem I see is the public aspect of the event is more localized. You won't have a family travel more than an hour at most to go to a train show. The locality of the York event is not conducive to a large public turnout regardless of the advertising. So IMO the public will never really be a large factor. Just my opinion.
IMHO your are not going to get any substantial public turn out unless it's Saturday and Sunday plus lots of layouts.
shorling posted:IMHO your are not going to get any substantial public turn out unless it's Saturday and Sunday plus lots of layouts.
Yes, I believe that may have a very small effect. But who is this "public"? The good people of York? I'm a TCA member and I wouldn't drive my kids over and hour to train show. Like @MartyE suggested, unless it takes place in a large metro area, you won't get a big public turnout. The York meet will have its ups and downs based on TCA membership attendance.