To All,
Since I have been in this hobby I have observed in one form or another dealers/collectors placing chips in the many auctions available to us. The vast majority of these dealers/collectors are honest and good people. The chips offered are described accurately and fairly. Sometimes they sell, sometimes not. There are sooooo many auctions available to us that it would be difficult to "paint"<g> them all with the same brush. whether that be good or bad. I have been asked if I paricipate in auctions. In some cases I will but often I do not.
Does that mean auctions in general are not good? OF COURSE NOT!!! Often I do not participate in auctions because it is past my bed time.<vbg> This is not the only reason but one of the main reasons. I tell you the truth.

Overall auctions serve a good purpose for the hobby. They allow ALL OF US an opportunity to see chips we might never see again. I personally receive Howdy's,
Armin's, Dean & Jodi's, and Our Club's auction. Why if I don't care for auctions do I participate in getting these auction booklets? The answer is I will not allow a few bad apples to ruin a very valuable aspect of our hobby. Just because I alert all collectors of practices that I consider wrong - DOES NOT MEAN ALL THE CHIPS are set-ups. It does not mean YOU should not participate. What it does mean is do your home work. Learn and become an intelligent bidder.

Our club auction is basically good. We have a few bad apples. However, I would NEVER ALLOW a few pieces of garbage to spoil our Club's auction. Remember, our Club's auction produces revenue that is much needed. I wouldn't want my statements twisted by those who seize upon what I say as an excuse to cover up their own short comings. I am 100% club. I support ALL club activities. I may have differences of opinion with club positions but I would never purpose not supporting an activity such as our club auction. Anyone who says different is simply incorrect!

Being made aware of things that have/could take place IS NOT the same as suggesting YOU as members should not participate. DO PARTICPATE, but do it with knowledge. Be a smart bidder. If I could stay up - I'd be there. Maybe this year I will. After all the goal is fun for YOU - REVENUE for the club. There is nothing wrong with either. Thanks for reading, Jim