VCCC Convention 2018

[electrolux137]

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Just wondering what Mike Pupek has to do with this thread.


 


That having been said, we've been good friends for many years. I met him in 1991 via Stan Kann, who had been a friend of Mike's for a number of years previously. Mike was one of the original members of the VCCC -- he joined the club in the mid 1980s.


 


I have never known Mike to be anything but kind and gentle, with nothing bad to say about anyone. So it seems somewhat unseemly that his reputation is being unfairly besmirched here, without any substantiation whatsoever other than idle prattle and unfounded gossip.


 


(And I suspect that other Club old-timers would have the same to say about him. Too bad most of them are no longer around for one reason or another.)


 


Yes, Mike is a "man of means" and can afford to purchase whatever he wants. When did that ever become a crime? With all the small-minded and selfish childish users on eBay who purposely and maliciously drive up the price on things they want but can't afford -- just to be mean -- who can fault anyone for sniping?


 


I used to feel differently about sniping and frequently railed loudly and publicly against snipers. But over the years I have had a change of heart about this, especially when things I was bidding on were purposely being driven up in cost. The best way to prevent that from happening (and even then, it's not infallible) is to place a bid during the last four or five seconds of an auction's open period. There are even software programs to automatically snipe.


 


So, again: What does Mike Pupek have to do with this thread?

 

[air-waycharlie]

Thank you Charles. Ditto to the above.

 

[sleepdoc]

Obviously, it's not a crime, just not a kindness.

I don't buy many things on ebay anymore, so I don't know what the current climate is like amongst vacuum collectors on ebay. Let me be clear that I realize there's nothing illegal or criminal about sniping. However, I've always considered it an unfriendly thing to do when fellow collectors are involved. If a person were to do it over an over, to the point that people knew him by ebay moniker and by actual identity just for doing that so often, the penalty would be an ungenerous reputation, which is exactly what happened. I'm commenting within a very limited scope and not making any statements about what he was like outside of ebay; I would defer to those who actually knew him or continue to know him if he's still alive.

 

[countryford]

Can we get back on topic? Isn't this thread about the convention?

I'm still waiting to hear if there is an itinerary for the convention. Since we are making a trip out of this, I may not be at ed very ev4nt of this convention. An itinerary would definitely be h helpful to plan. Also, if my husband joins me for an event or two, do I need to get a ticket for him as well? He went be with me the whole time.

Thank you. I'm unsure who directly I need to ask.

 

[akabent]

Mike, Sniping, and unfounded gossip

<span style="font-size: 12pt;">I, too, do not understand the harsh comments about Mike and so  I  unreservedly have to agree with Charles' comments/perspective.  Most everyone has their 'theory' about how to 'win' on E-bay;  mine initially focusing on exactly when to bid.  However, I find many who are disgruntled simply/merely because an individual wins many bids seem to be showing their jealousy.  In many cases, I have lost items to people who have apparently worked harder and smarter than I, and I applaud them for that rather than begrudge them.  I'm proud of my collection but recognize others may always outbid me as was the case recently on a much-sought-after phone I 'lost'.  I have never heard anything unkind said about Mike though I have definitely lost items to him.  At least they are going to someone who appreciates them as much as I would!!  Just my thoughts.</span>


 


<span style="font-size: 12pt;">RB</span>

 

[gottahaveahoove]

I, too, have hear nice things about him.

As well as nasty ones.....but....nasty things have been said about me as well. If one has the funds, and is quick, one is able to purchase various machines.
I only mentioned Mike because I've learned thathe has rejoined The VCCC. I'm sure Ken, our membershp coordinator, will welcome him publically, again.
Certainly, I was not throwing gasoline on a fire. That was certainly not my intention at all.

 

[pinkge]

Comments

With negitive remarks about someone,No wonder the club loose's members and people don't join.

 

[swivelsean]

My 'I's are dotted and my 'T's are crossed

Gentlemen,
I just confirmed my rental car, convention hotel room, air travel and convention fee. Just in the nick of time, as most of the convention hotel rooms have been booked, what a good sign. While I requested from Avis an AMC Ambassador or Oldsmobile 98, neither where available but I reserved a full sized domestic vehicle so I'll have room for other conventioneers and their finds from Marc's shop and home. Be sure to pack sunscreen and parasols to protect from the summer sun, in case someone wants to take a stroll or enjoy the convenient walk between Marc's shop and home.
Only 3 1/2 weeks to go!
Sean

 

[kirbyvertibles]

Sean, I called and changed your car reservation. Instead of an olds 98 There will be a 76 Gremlin waiting for your arrival..... I can just see you driving it.

 

[cuffs054]

Having owned both vehicles, your best bet would be the 98 with the Gremlin in the boot!

 

[kirbyvertibles]

haha agreed!!!!

 

[akabent]

Gremlin.....

<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Anyone remember the early Gremlin ad where the lady pulls up in a (new) Gremlin and they guy(s) sitting around ask<span style="font-size: 14pt;">  "So, where's the rest of your car, toots?"</span></span>


 


<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">    <span style="font-size: 12pt;">That tickles me to this day!!  (OK, I get amused easily!!)</span></span></span>


 


<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">RB</span></span></span>

 

[vinvac]

Michael,

You are 100% correct, why would anyone want to join when people treat each other this way. I also agree with electrolux137, jealousy has ruined this club and the fellowship it once had.

I know the world keeps on spinning and things change and I will always remain a member but currently not at the same level for many of the same reasons.

 

[kenkart]

I have hadHarsh opimions in the past,

And have said things I shouldn't, that being said, I have been friends with Tom Gasko, and the late Clay Floyd ever since I found out about the VCCC in 1994, Yes I was around that long ago, I am also friends with many of the newer members, I just refuse to get into a name calling put down match, The main reason I left the VCCC was the newsletter was done away with, weather it is being printed now I don't know,I know this, im 52 years old , I will not degrade myself by trying to insult others, say what you want, but Tom got us the first publicity we ever had, I have tried to make peace with those I had differences with, some here might find you would like Tom if you got to know him, As far as Mike Pupec , he has been to my home, eaten my cooking, and though I haven't seen him in a while, I get along fine with him ..

 

[akabent]

Getting Closer!!!

<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The VCCC, the longest-running and most varied Vacuum Club and Convention in the US  is just around the proverbial corner.  Still time to make your arrangements to be a part of it and you won't be sorry!    "Coming to a neighborhood near you', we're the only Convention that 'makes appearances' nearly all around the US, giving access to as many enthusiasts of vacuum cleaners as possible.   Hopefully, Spokane is a location you can attend.  If not, at least there is the knowledge of it not being in the same old, tired location year after year, ad nauseum.   Join us in Spokane, or when we come to your neck of the woods.  You won't leave disappointed, but you will most likely leave with numerous treasures as nearly all of our attendees cant attest to.</span>


 


<span style="font-size: 12pt;">See you there!</span>


 


The members of the VCCC welcome you

 

[kenkart]

If I go

Im going to St Louis , no drama, fun, and great old friends!and I don't have to try and impress anyone.

 

[gottahaveahoove]

Hans

It WOULD be great to actually, finally meet you in person. I've always enjoyed your posts. Please know that you would be most welcome. Not trying to impress anyone, either.
I'm a proud member of The VCCC, and always enjoy seeing everyone AND visiting new places.
You have a lot to offer. It could be a lot of fun.
John

 

[swivelsean]

Looking forward to the same...

Fellow Club Members,
I'm looking forward to no drama, fun and seeing old friends too! All in Spokane in less than three weeks. I'm making my parts and vac lists for friends who can't make the trip. Will I be checking my lists twice, you better believe it.

This will be my tenth consecutive VCCC Convention and each one I find enriches my life in the present and provides great memories. From the warmth and kindness of Terry Latz, who greeted me like an old friend when we first met in Chicago in 2009, to the deep friendships that I have been lucky to develop with other VCCC members over the years...I consider myself lucky to be associated with the VCCC. Each year provides an opportunity to experience a new collection, or two, or three and enjoy the hospitality of a collector who has opened his or her home to the VCCC members. And the digging/finding/shopping...I remember climbing a ladder at an old time hardware store in Milwaukee handing vintage vac bags to Scott and Will and more recently helping John and Brett 'climb through' a long time closed vac store in Oklahoma City. Each year reveals a new adventure and I'm looking forward to the next one.
See everyone soon,
Sean

 

[kirbyvertibles]

Sean, you are such a kind person. I remember your first convention very well. A life long friendship was formed! I love the conventions and mini meets. They are ALL so important to keeping the passion of vacuums alive!
I'm so glad we've had this time together just to have a laugh or sing a song. Seems we just get started and before you know it comes the time we have to say so long.

 

[kenkart]

Thank you John

And to clear the air, im certainly NOT mad with anyone, I just don't intend to gET mad and that is why I stay away, I have friends in both groups, and I just wont get into arguing and fighting , I have in the past, but I intend to get along.