Gumgod wrote:KaChing appears to be a typical club member (any Club, they all have these type of members). He is quick to criticize the club but very slow to contribute positively to it. His excuse for not writing something about the hobby is that he doesn't have any knowledge (typical). He states COCA is only for the "experienced collector". Where did he come up with that one? Sounds like another excuse to do nothing but bitch about the club.
KaChing, I'm glad you at least considered your $30 a contribution to COCA because that's exactly what is is. For your information, members receive only three issues of THE COCA TIMES magazine. If it didn't have advertising the club could probably have only two issues per year. Advertising is good as it connects members with other members and their specific wants. Is that something to criticize? I don't think so. Do you think maybe you are partly responsible for no COCA calendar this year? Or did you send in some photos of your stuff? I bet not, but if you did, then you could legitimately criticize those who didn't. If everyone shared your attitude the club wouldn't last long. Clubs are a lot more fun if you have a positive attitude and do your share to insure the success of the club. Try it, you might like it.
OK, here is my story.
I currently own three slot machines. Two hightops and a Jennings Standard Chief. I bought these several years ago on E-Bay. The person I bought the Hightop from also told me about COCA. Other than knowing that my machines were made in the 1950's I know nothing else except they are common machines. The only reason I know this is because that is what I was told from the people I bought them from. Since I like old mechanical stuff I thought I would subscribe to your magazine.
So that is my story and knowlege when it comes to antique slot machines. Do you really think the other COCA members would find it interesting? If so, they need to get a life. You are correct that I did not send photos in for the calendar. One reason is that I don't think people would care to see a picture of a hightop or a Jennings Standard Chief. The other reason is I really don't want to advertise my stuff.
I still get the feeling that this magazine is for the experienced collector since you are demanding that everyone write articles and send in pictures of their stuff. In your opinion, if they don't, they are not supporting the gods of COCA. You might also consider the possibility that everyone else's lives don't revolve around COCA. They might have other things going on in their lives, perhaps a job, or a business to run, or a family, or other interests. Perhaps they didn't send pictures in because they really don't want to advertise what they have (like me). In any case, that is their right, and I don't think you have the right to get mad at them for not doing it.
I think advertising in the magazine is fine. I would just like to see more articles. Perhaps you should be bugging the dealers to write articles.
In any case, it doesn't matter as I will not be renewing my subscription.
Oh, one other question. Does it really cost $18,000 (600 * $30) to put out 2 issues a year? I said two because you indicated it would only be two if you did not receive advertising income.
I am sure it was a long time ago, but maybe you should think about what it was like when you bought your first machine. Were you an expert? Oh, I forgot, you are the God of gum (whatever the hell that means), so you probably were.