Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Also, this video has received some attention from Stern on their Facebook page as an FYI Who put it together?
I think Stern is advertising it becuase Playdium is a sponsor and Playdium is one of Stern's largest customers.
As for the movie itself, I know that is Nick's collection but I assume a TOPL member named Bob Barlen was the one who made the video, Bob is a film producer/director (and no he is not in Donnie's profession) so I'd assume he had a hand in helping Nick make this as they are good friends.
I think Stern is advertising it becuase Playdium is a sponsor and Playdium is one of Stern's largest customers.
As for the movie itself, I know that is Nick's collection but I assume a TOPL member named Bob Barlen was the one who made the video, Bob is a film producer/director (and no he is not in Donnie's profession) so I'd assume he had a hand in helping Nick make this as they are good friends.
I think the did an excellent job.
Agreed the video is amazing ... is the City Breakfast Line show still coming to Mike's place this week ?
Centigrade 37 ... LOTR in da House ... a Barracora ....... Spidey ... RFM
That's it, the marketing worked. I'm coming. It'll be fun to compete in the tournament and gawk at the machines and parts for sale. Unfortunately, I won't be bringing a van with me, so I can't ship any machines (there or back). Also, taking a machine out of my basement is a dangerous activity, so I won't bringing any for free play, otherwise I would. See y'all there!
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
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I'll be there 10 - 10 Sat and 10 - 6 Sunday (Booth G4/G5) with my bevy of used parts and manuals... Pinball 1010 DVDs, Pinball Dusters, possibly some project machines and some free play if I can muster.
I just want to know how you get the 30 ball mutiball . (.28 of the video)
It's an easter egg that will be revealed at the show
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
Yes, Bob Barlen and I made that vid, lots of fun. We actually had an animated monster truck that was going to drive over and crush all the games but it was just too much. We'll try to make some more, maybe one for TOPL...
SUNDAY! SUNDAY! SUNDAY! PINASAURUS, the giant mechanical dinosaur that EATS SPANISH PINBALL MACHINES! Camping is only FOURTEEN BUX!
(Disclaimer: Nothing in the above line is actually happening at the show)
See everyone there!
On Sunday Gerald's auction is at 11am, we will also have some cool seminars on Sunday - maybe a couple on Saturday too, still working them out.
I don't think we'll be able to post a list of games that will be there till the last minute... you may as well come and check it out!
Remember to register with us if you are bringing a game!
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
for those selling games should we have a secret handshake or something as i will selling my nascar for 2995.oo retail but will sell it to a maaca member for 2700.00 or trade as well
current pins taf,lotr,cftbl,ngg,ij,tz,totan,tspp,shadow,t2,Wh20,rs,rfm sadly gone over 30 more pins.
for those selling games should we have a secret handshake or something as i will selling my nascar for 2995.oo retail but will sell it to a maaca member for 2700.00 or trade as well
I'll be wearing a "Hello, my name is" sticker of some sort.. it sounds silly, but it works.
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
I ran out a long time ago and yours is the first request for one in over a year...
Really? They're so bitching. Why wouldn't there be a huge lineup for them?
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
I say just throw the logo up on like Cafeepress and let people order a shirt when they want one.
Their shipping to Canada is a rip-off. I heard there are Canadian alternatives.
Update: After some gooooogling, I found spreadshirt.com. Looks good, only $4.50 to ship a T-shirt
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
I want to say thanks to Mike Hanley and Nick Angel in advance for putting together a local show. It's nice to be able to attend something like this without having to drive a ton of hours.
I also want to say thanks to Adam for running the tournament at the show at putting up the prize money.
I know some of us will be helping out setting up, during and after the show, to the rest of you in our Pinball Nation I hope you will all try your best to come out to the show and enter in the tournament at least one time. The 3 people mentioned above have put a lot of time and their own money up to make this show a success, the least we can do is support their efforts. After all nobody deserves to lose money to put on a show to support the hobby that we all love.
P.S. Just to let you know since I don't see it posted anywhere, I have volunteered to run a kids pinball tournament on Saturday from noon-6pm. I have a POTC zizzle pinball machine and a $50 Play card for Playdium Mississauga as prizes. Ever kid that enters will win a prize.
Thanks
Mike Clinton President Toronto Pinball League topl.org
For those of you that are interested, the auction will be at 11 AM on Sunday I will also be bringing lots of parts for sale, including backglasses, bezels, marquees, control pnaels, etc. As well as that I will be selling over 100 working boards, mostly hard to find classics, as well as some pinball boards and PF's.
Right now it looks like there will be around 60-80 machines in the auction including classic pins, lots of classic arcade games, some jamma stuff, some generic cabs, etc.
Any pin list for those of us out of towners that have to take off Sunday to get back for Monday school for kids unless there is the "need to have" pin in the auction to delay leaving???
Anyone coming from out of town i.e. farther than Whitby?
I am... I'm actually driving in tonight (from Ptbo) to set up two pins in the free play area, and then driving in for the tourney/show/auction on Sunday. I think something like this MUST succeed, because I want it to happen again! If you're on the fence for coming, get off yer arse and make the effort! Daniel
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
For those of you that are interested, the auction will be at 11 AM on Sunday I will also be bringing lots of parts for sale, including backglasses, bezels, marquees, control pnaels, etc. As well as that I will be selling over 100 working boards, mostly hard to find classics, as well as some pinball boards and PF's.
Right now it looks like there will be around 60-80 machines in the auction including classic pins, lots of classic arcade games, some jamma stuff, some generic cabs, etc.
Anyone going should try the tourny. Even if your not serious about it.
I had a good time until I left and spend 4 hours dealing with a fender bender and going to the vehicle collision reporting center. Damnit!
ALL of those pins were kicking my a**. Nice to play a HS again. Its been over...10 years?
SUPPORT THE SHOW! WE NEED IT BACK!
Pins : Vids:
Demolition Man Robotron Mini High Speed Make Trax Mini Whirlwind Sinistar Mini Apollo 13 Jrok WIlliams Multi Mini Road Show 1069 in 1 big mofo Batman Forever
Gone: Spy Hunter, TMNT, Raven, Mr Mrs Pac, Totem, Torch, Coney Island, Escape From the Lost World, Lights Camera Action, Pinbot , Police Force, Special Force, JPTLW, Baywatch, Maverick, South Park, FIRE! x2, F14 Tomcat, Twister
kev...KEV...KEVIN!!! Damn, now i made the connection! KEVIN is OTTOgd not GJD... hehe. Oh well. I finally met GJD also and he's a damn nice guy! Your ok too .
Pins : Vids:
Demolition Man Robotron Mini High Speed Make Trax Mini Whirlwind Sinistar Mini Apollo 13 Jrok WIlliams Multi Mini Road Show 1069 in 1 big mofo Batman Forever
Gone: Spy Hunter, TMNT, Raven, Mr Mrs Pac, Totem, Torch, Coney Island, Escape From the Lost World, Lights Camera Action, Pinbot , Police Force, Special Force, JPTLW, Baywatch, Maverick, South Park, FIRE! x2, F14 Tomcat, Twister
Is there a way to find out if I qualified before leaving the hotel tomorrow? I'd have to stay late in Toronto to compete.
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
If you didn't make it today, make sure you go tomorrow.
A very nice selection of games to play there. Well worth the admission. I am hoping to spend some more time on the games I missed today. And my son is waiting to give Medvet's MM a serious go. He wants to see what is so special about the game and why it commands so much money.
Is there a way to find out if I qualified before leaving the hotel tomorrow? I'd have to stay late in Toronto to compete.
From the posted rules.
"We plan to start with only the Top 8 qualifiers to take into the playoffs but will expand the field to Top 16 if we get more then 50 participants in either division."
Is it an atom? No, it's multiball! Complete MAACA-Wacko!
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The show was awesome! Would have really wanted to get in the tournament but parental stuff (and the guilt of only seeing my daughter only 4 days/month) held me back.
Next year (I really hope there will be a show next year), I will try and find a way to get a couple of machines down for people to play. Kudos to those whose contributions made this show. It was much better than I had expected.
And it was great to be able to connect some more faces to names. For those I didnt get a chance to say hello to, hopefully tomorrow.
Hopefully Cointaker will have some product left to take my pocket full of cash.
One of the highlights for me was getting a chance to play Battlezone, a video game I really liked back in junior high('78?). It is a tank battle thing done in vector graphics and it is STILL fun!
I had a blast at the show today. Many fun (and some RARE) machines available to play (close to 100 I think).
I want to sincerely Thank again all the show organizers. It really shows that they put a lot of time, sweat, efforts and money to organize this event and make the show successful for all of us to enjoy. I tip my hat to you !
Also Thanks to all who brought machines to the show in the freeplay area, for all of us (and the general public) to enjoy. Great efforts by all ! Plus great promo for selling machines too I suspect.
I really hope this will become an annual event and grows even more. Let's encourage this local initiative.
Thanks again,
Regards & Cheers, - Sylvain.
Looking for 1966 Bally Capersville, 1967 Bally The Wiggler, 1981 Stern Viper, 1986 Pinstar Gamatron, 1986 Williams Grand Lizard, 1991 Williams Bride of Pinbot, and a few others. Cash or some trades available. Could also repair a machine of yours +/-$ if needed, in exchange for one machine on my want list, non-working/unshopped welcome!
One of the highlights for me was getting a chance to play Battlezone, a video game I really liked back in junior high('78?). It is a tank battle thing done in vector graphics and it is STILL fun!
That was my old game that I bought from MarkToo and sold to Nick Angel. I enjoyed playing it again.
"My power comes from my boundless rage"
** Getting Out **All that's left: (Vids) Bubbles**MAKE AN OFFER!**
I had a great time....picked up my F14 from Ancientgames (great to meet you Mike...sorry to hear about the fender bender)...met DigitalAssault also from Kitchener playing the tricked out IronMan pin from Cointaker. Had a chance to play some great games that I never played before including Iron Man, Medieval Madness, STTNG and Fish Tales...loved them all and wanted each of them
Cannot attend the auction tomorrow for fear of advancing the disease any more than I did today, but it was great....thanks to all who brought their machines for all to try.
John
Pins: F14 Tomcat working Williams Black Knight working Premier Genesis pinball working Dataeast Simpsons working Dataeast Secret Service working HAUNTED HOUSE - project
Vids: PGA Tour Golf, Golden Tee Complete 2 slot machines
Keep groovin' to 80's pinball machines! Complete MAACA-Wacko!
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So far it's been a great show. I have a couple of the projects there that I had on here that I want to divest...Joker Poker, Mustang and Laser Cue - "priced to move". Used parts are $5 a small baggy full, $10 for a big baggy full - which has been very popular amongst collectors. Some new parts. Plastics (new and used). And all the legs, coin mechs and coin trays (ashtrays) you can ever need at scrap metal prices. I'll have the nut vendor machines on sale today as well - $80 each. These have been totally (and I mean totally) cleaned, with keys, manual, box etc. - much nicer than their original condition! And a lot more stuff....
had a great time and picked up an arcade off gerald saw many of you i know and others i dont. had a chance to play orbitor, what a game!!! i snapped a few shots nick
We had an awesome time at the show, a great big thank you to the Organizers & participants. Much monies was parted with. It was great to meet many of you in the flesh as well! And... I learned something at this show. I learned... that you can fit a Black Knight completely inside a Ford Fusion. (pictures will be coming)
We are photo documenting Black Knight's restoration & will post as we go in Projects.
Thanks everyone for a great time at the show!
High Speed Flash Gordon Pinbot Gorgar Kick Off Roller Disco Dungeons & Dragons Black Knight (Project) Atlantis (Bally)
So far it's been a great show. I have a couple of the projects there that I had on here that I want to divest...Joker Poker, Mustang and Laser Cue - "priced to move". Used parts are $5 a small baggy full, $10 for a big baggy full - which has been very popular amongst collectors. Some new parts. Plastics (new and used). And all the legs, coin mechs and coin trays (ashtrays) you can ever need at scrap metal prices. I'll have the nut vendor machines on sale today as well - $80 each. These have been totally (and I mean totally) cleaned, with keys, manual, box etc. - much nicer than their original condition! And a lot more stuff....
I got some stuff from Wayne!!! And I regret not getting more. Iremember seeing a few plastics that looked familiar. I remembered for what machine they were for this morning... my Freefall!!!
Wayne, I will be sending you pics of my machine tonight. I know you have one slingshot plastic for it. Whatever else you have, name your price!
A big thanks to all that organized this event... fantastic!
My high points:
- meeting members - kicking a** on GJD's Fire Rescue!!! what an awesome game... - playing Orbitor 1 - playing vids like Tapper and rare games like Fire Rescue and Midnight Marauder - buying lamp drivers and sharing a beer with the Cointaker crew - buying parts from Websherpa!
Regrets:
- not sticking around long enough (but I barely made it home...) - not buying a game from GJD. Iwill be kicking myself over that a long time. That Baby pacman had my attention... - not buying more parts from Websherpa!
As for the discussion I had about 14 times yesterday, I don't think a Montreal show could be possible. The main reason being that I am not so sure that many people would bring their games. A ot of games at the show belonged to either Mike Hanley, Adam or Nick Angel. I don't know of a MTL collector that would bring so many games.
As for a location, that would be easy for me... the local Community Hall in Saint-Lazare (where I live) would rent a hall for me about a quarter of the size of what they had in Toronto for about 300$ for the whole weekend. so that would not be a big expense.
I went to the show today. Met McMean (his machines looked great). I was looking forward to playing the Solar City but I got to play ElDorado (which I think is the same playfiled - at least it's similar).
I got to play Humpty Dumpty (first game with flippers) which wasn't really enjoyable. Ha. They had a Gottlieb Challenger (the simultaneous 2-player) which was cool to see. I played mostly EMs.
Maybe it's a faux pas to say what I'm about to say... but if you're bringing a game to show off and sell, then why wouldn't you spend a bit of time and clean/wax the playfield? There were a few games there that were filthy. And they weren't cheap either.
Anyway... glad that all the games were there and I want to say thanks to everybody who brought one (or more!). I'm planning to do some playfield touchups and clearcoating on the machines I've got. Once I'm done, I'll bring them to (one of the) next shows. I was planning to do it in summer of 2011 so they probably wont be ready for next year. I'm already planning for Toronto Pinball Show 2012!!
Fantastic show! Could only make the Saturday as work prevented Sunday attendance. Great selection of games to play, both new and old, as well as slot machines. Special thanks to Medvet for bringing Ripley's. I love Ripley's and I am hunting for one currently. Big thanks to Websherpa for all the parts, manuals and plastics I snagged from you. Couldn't believe they were still there at 4pm on Sat.
Cointakers had a tricked out Iron Man with leds which looked very impressive. Stern games look amazing with leds. There is something about their inserts that really suit the leds compared to a Williams/Bally games I have seen with leds. Also a RFM with LCD monitor looked great too.
Current Line Up: Fish Tales, Whitewater, The Simpsons Pinball Party, Lord Of The Rings, Star Trek The Next Generation, Johnny Mnemonic, The Shadow and Big Guns.
Videos :��Blitz 2000 Gold Edition and Golden Tee 2005
Great time, really enjoyed myself. Sold Solar City, didn't sell Captain Fantastic - but it was having intermittent ball and countdown issues so I'm not surprised. Should be very easy to rectify. It was playing very well, though, as in the game play held up very well.
Picked up a DK Jr from the auction - needs a DK jr. board and some TLC, but $90 is $90 - and it's one game I'd really like to have dedicated (with the DK and DKjr chip mod) so I'm pretty happy. It's in the shed until the move.
Bad part of the weekend - I forgot to lock my Sure Shot back door, and someone swiped it! It would have been sitting behind or beside the machine. I was pretty bummed about it, so I asked Mike Hanley if maybe one of his crew accidently picked it up (cause he had lots of wedges there too) and he said no.... but then......
Good part of the weekend - Mike Hanley went and pulled a back door off another wedgehead and gave it to me. He's a really classy guy, I really appreciated it. To the bum who took my backdoor, if you're reading this - a pox upon you.
Lots of fun, wish I didn't suck at pinball so I could have placed in the tourney. Thanks to Novaguy for the hand in loading and unloading everything. Big thanks to all who had a hand in making this happen.
This was a great show for those who could make it. Even tho the number of games etc weren't like the US shows, it was a blast to socialize, get to know the TO guys better and enjoy some games that I had never played. I was there Friday from early setup until midnight helping out assembling etc and enjoyed getting to meet alot of the local collectors and Mike Hanley and his wife and friends who were all there. There's a great feeling with unloading 100 machines and getting them assembled, plugged in and working for the show. Sat was show most of the day and my MM and Ripleys hung tough and had no issues or errors by days end. MM had over 400 plays just on Sat. I'll do the weekend total when I get home. Unfortunately I had to leave a few hours early today and pull my games by 2 so didn't stay for takedown. I apologize to the people who still hadn't managed to play my MM and wanted to. Next year!
Anyways, it was a pleasure to meet all the MAACA and CGCC and TOPL members in person that I've seen on the boards and talk pins. I hope to bring a few more games for the next show once I get up my courage and practice driving with a full trailer. Maybe I should invest in one since I had to not buy a game in Allentown and again here at this show due to a full van .
So to those that didn't make it - come next year please and bring a game with you! To those that came and brought a game - thanks for doing that. I enjoyed playing many of them and like Sparky - Gerald's Fire Escape game was SO COOL! Of course I sucked until Count showed me how to play it then I actually got the ball to the shooter at the bottom. If I had had a trailer..........
Anyways - great weekend, great times and great to meet alot of members from all around. I'll be back!
Congrats to Necro and Jonny_eh for placing in the top 3 in the 'B' Division and a bigger congrats to Adam for placing 1st in 'A'. The tourney games were REALLY nice and a pleasure to play!
It wasn't much fun hauling the games out of my basement but it was nice to see them being enjoyed. I brought my Gottlieb Circus, Gottlieb Atlantis, Gottlieb Quintette, and Spectrum. Good fun!
Big thanks to Mike and Nick for making it happen and to Adam for the tournament. Unfortunately, I missed Gerald's auction. I now realize how much work is involved and I really hope this comes together next year. I had a great time.
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
Thanks to McMean for lugging me along.Ha ha.nice to put some faces to the names finally.thanks to websherpa for all the parts.
Current pins.Telecard-Buckaroo-Central Park-Nip It-Jacks Open-Atlantis-Star Trek- SuperSonic-Evil Kneveil-Spin a Card-Flipper Clown-Black Knight-Mibs-Flying Carpet- Reserve-Cross Town
Gone-Pioneer Projects- Space Odyssey 1961 Seeburg jukebox Williams Color Hi Dolly Gladiator
Reading all your great comments about this unique homegrown show makes me all the more pissed that I missed it this year. Not so much for the machine line up, but for the rare opportunity to meet so many of you MAACA pinball freaks all hanging out in one place. And again, basing myself on what I have gathered by reading this thread, sounds like the show was a real success, - at the very least a serious hoot.
Hats off in particular to Mike, Nick, Adam, Gearld and countless others no doubt. It will most likely take several years before Montreal even begins getting a semblance of a show together, but at least we have a model to base ourselves on thanks to you.
Toujours à la recherche de vos histoires liant Montréal et les machines à boules. Always looking for your Montreal based pinball stories.
Congrats to Necro and Jonny_eh for placing in the top 3 in the 'B' Division and a bigger congrats to Adam for placing 1st in 'A'. The tourney games were REALLY nice and a pleasure to play!
Crap I didn't know that was Johnny_eh. If I'd of known that I would have tried harder.
I brought my Demolition Man w/LED's for use in the Toronto Pinball tournament, and Stern NBA which was originally intended for the free play area, but, as it turns out was needed in the tournament area as a replacement due to a game technicality decision. So I regret for not being able to share any of my games within the free play area.
As a MAACA cadet, It was great meeting up with many members, { Pinballed, Websherpa, Dave Astill, and especially MEDVET}
The game highlights for me were: making it to the bottom of Fire Rescue rolling over the score on Grand Lizard, it's been years since i've played that one seeing and playing the legendary Humpty Dumpty pinball breathing in the toxic fumes from the Gottlieb Totem which caught fire playing Dave's RUSH pinball
For years, I've spent many hours playing in the arcades, which sadly are disappearing everyday. This led to the discovery of Mike Hanley's Church of the Silverball, then hearing about groups like MAACA, then joining TOPL. All of whom I fully owe to the success I've had at various tournaments over the past few years. As a volunteer at the show and pre-show and after-show, it was great to finally give something back to everyone who supports the love of the game as much as I do.
Crap I didn't know that was Johnny_eh. If I'd of known that I would have tried harder.
Crap, if I knew that was necro I would have tried harder... too. We should wear name tags or something.
Thanks again to Adam for working so damn hard all weekend for arranging the tournament and everything else. The plaque you made will be prominently featured in my pin room somewhere. And congrats on winning the A division!
It was a blast and totally worth coming to TO for. And thanks to people like medvet for bringing games in it was really appreciated. It was also cool to play the Rush pin owned by Dave Astill, until medvet broke it
BTW, what does my "PAPA registration" mean?
It's me!
I hope some pics of the winners will be uploaded soon.
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
It was a blast and totally worth coming to TO for. And thanks to people like medvet for bringing games in it was really appreciated. It was also cool to play the Rush pin owned by Dave Astill, until medvet broke it
Oh.........you are so uninvited to the superhero pinball party!!!!!!
ME
And for the record......the flipper coil was already melting from your first ball
OK - maybe I'll let you in but you have to get past Rogan first! !
Overall from the perspective of attending the show, I thought it was a tremendous success.
I spoke with Mike nearing the end and he asked about how things were and what could be done in future. He said he would be looking for feedback.
My comments were the following.
I felt the show may have to regain some momentum as a result of not being on over the past few years. For instance everyone knows Allentown is a recurring show at about the same time each year and therefore people know it's coming and less is required to advertise the show as a result. Not much to do about that but just keep hosting the show each year.
I felt a flea market outside exactly like A town would have been a draw. I am certain there are many people that have stuff that wouldn't warrant paying for floor space but would be willing to put it out in a flea market. Everyone loves to pick through crap and everyone loves to see their crap go to good use instead of scrap. A Flea market would be another reason for some to come.
Posting a chronological timetable of all events. Simple list of times to de-conflict when and where to be.
Showing the logistical challenges and assets. Just showing a few pics of the entranceways, roll up doors, docks etc. would have let people know how to prepare. Additionally having game handlers to assist with setup and tear down would be beneficial. It would be just that assist and you still move your own games under your own care.
Like I said to Mike these are not criticisms. I really enjoyed the show, but he is asking for ideas as they really want to ensure the future success of running it and are willing to entertain some changes that are within the scope of being possible.
Well, its been said many times but here we go again....GREAT SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks to Nick, Micheal and Adam for putting on a wicked fun show. My personal high points were the great Popidiuk row of pins....throw down on WCS was a howl thanks Darren for a trip down memery lane. Ottogd thanks a bunch for bringing the Spectrum, playing the game that the late Bob K drove all the way to PA to pick up against the guy that went with Bob to get it, was just tooooooo freaky. Best booth for me was a tie.....I always love the Cointaker LEDs but Wayne's house of bargains was amazing...there were more deals there than Ottley/Anderson whiplash sightings!!!!!!! Playing Dave Astill's Rush game was a hoot too, who needs the 3rd flipper working....way more of a challenge, thanks ME The tailgater was a blast, nice hangin' with the Cointakers, BMWman, Captain Kirk, Karmatose, Machine Slave...Nice rods on ya, BallyBoy, Poolman, Medvet, Kadlad, Vidiot...thanks for the iphone training, Speedy da Punk Necro, OTTOgd, Squid V, Miles and the rest whose names I forgot...damn that jungle juice!!!!!
My first Toronto pin show and my first post on this forum ... very nice event, lots of good people, and the tournament gave me a new appreciation for some of the newer games. I also discovered there's a pinball community in Ottawa, thanks to medvet and Jonny_eh.
My first Toronto pin show and my first post on this forum ... very nice event, lots of good people, and the tournament gave me a new appreciation for some of the newer games. I also discovered there's a pinball community in Ottawa, thanks to medvet and Jonny_eh.
Hope there's another one next year!
Congrats on winning Division B Phil and welcome to the community, hope to see you at local events.
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
Well, that was fun! My Grand Lizard still sits in my truck where she'll spend the night until help arrives tomorrow. Its funny, pinball brings out the best in me. Try and get me to support anything else on the planet and I just dont give a rats arse it seems but make it about pinball and I cant help myself.
Its great meeting more of you guys on here every auction, show, private dealings etc. Good clean show I thought. Nobody stunk...like I see so many complaints about on rgp about some shows...lol.
I wish there were more vendors too, a flea market would rule, I'd definately participate in that, and I'm sure many of us would. I dont have enough stuff to justify spending a vendors fee. I'd probably lose money but I'd do it outside.
Was GREAT to play some titles I always wanted to try, and some I never really even knew about. Like that Bally Spectrum...neat machine. Once I finally 'got it' then I had a great game on it. Quinnette was a trip too, Orbitor...insert bong hit here. Got to FINALLY play MM...thank you VERY much Medvet! And thank you also for offering to mind my machine in the morning in case it acted up. WHich, of course, it did. Outhole switch was triggering on Sunday, popping out two balls. Easy fix once I get her in here but for the most part the GL played nicely and I thought it was exactly what it needed after what was probably a lengthy hiatus...and that was lots and lots of play! So, one switch becoming intermittant after all that, not too shabby. She'll be back up for sale very shortly, I will post. I wish I could have attended Sunday longer than 15 minutes but I had to work. Its ok, I stayed a good while Saturday and in the early evening, there were lots of available machines. I played to my hearts content and really got my fill that night.
Great playing CV and TOTAN for the first time. Its funny, I just missed a TOTAN a while back and lamented it. Nope, not now, its not for me, but CV....wow, beautiful game.
So, nice to meet some of you for the first time, and others again! Sean, DOH O'Neil- very happy I could delight you with my GL, my game has now been honoured by 2009 Canada's Pinball Champion! And some day that'll make TWO Canadian Pinball Champions...when I win some year
Next year I will bring out more machines, I dont care if I have to deliver each pin in my truck one at a time either.
So, cheers to this year, and bring on next year!
Stan
TSPP is here!! STTNG on the way! Tommy Stargate High Speed Genesis Aztec
Off to other homes to be enjoyed...Freddy a Nightmare on Elm St, Pinbot, F-14, Robocop, Monday Night Football, Flash Gordon, Mr & Mrs Pacman, Meteor, Jurassic Park, Grand Lizard, City Slicker, Baby Pac-man, Wheel Of Fortune and T2 has moved on...man I miss these things when I sell them!
Thanks for the pictures TSLAM, what's that white Bally game in the Popadiuk row ? Alice in Wonderland ?
Got any more pictures of that game ? Never heard of it..
It's not a 'playable' game. More of a mock-up of ideas. It's my understanding that Popadiuk and Mike Hanley built that together and presented it to Bally/Williams as an application for a job there. Apparently they were both offered positions - John accepted and Mike chose a different course.
It's not a 'playable' game. More of a mock-up of ideas. It's my understanding that Popadiuk and Mike Hanley built that together and presented it to Bally/Williams as an application for a job there. Apparently they were both offered positions - John accepted and Mike chose a different course.
Very cool, thx for the history lesson.
Currently owning: - Solar Fire, Medusa, Flash Gordon, (Centaur), No Fear ------------------
Thanks for the pictures TSLAM, what's that white Bally game in the Popadiuk row ? Alice in Wonderland ?
Got any more pictures of that game ? Never heard of it..
I was told that it was originally an F-14. Its a very interesting piece. You can see some of the ideas that later showed up in Popadiuk's other games.
My son and I had a great time at the show. Lots of games on freeplay, from Humpty Dumpty to MM. I think the surprise hit of the show was the cockpit Star Wars video game. There seemed to always be someone in it, from little kids to older adults.
Definitely a great show-it's too bad I wasn't able to come hang out on Saturday at all, but Sunday was fun. I ended up spending the entire day Friday helping Mike and Nick move all their pins in, and then hung around until just before midnight last night getting everything broken down. It was a good time though, and it was great to see everything running so smoothly. Next time, I just have to remember to not only bring both drill batteries, but the charger, since taking the legs off that many machines is MUCH faster with power tools.
It's really too bad that ME had to take off early though-I only managed to get one game in on Ripley's and MM on Friday before they had to go back to Ottawa, and those are machines that you don't see very often. It was also good to see more machines that I hadn't played before, like Sean's Demolition Man, and the Batman Forever with the jumbotron display. That Rush machine was also really something-was the playfield on that a different material, or just really lightly used? It looked much shinier than a standard PF.
Hopefully next year's show can be bigger and better, and any lessons learned from this time can be carried forward. If nothing else, getting more machines out to the show, and being able to get some context around them would be great. Most people had no idea that the Alice machine was a prototype for example, but I know that the only reason there was no description on it was that there just wasn't time to write one up.
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I just wanted to say that it was a blast! Probably the most fun weekend my daughter and I have had in ages.
Of course also thank you to the organizers, Nick, Mike, Christine, and of course to Adam for putting together the tournament.
Also, the many many people who brought games, without which there would be no show.
It was awesome to be able to connect faces to some of the names I have seen and conversed with here on MAACA before.
I could name off so many but while at work gotta keep it brief. Of honourable mention, Medvet it was a pleasure to meet you. While I only added one play to the game count on MM, I did manage to get my initials in the high scores!
And also had my first really decent game on CV on the weekend too.
I have a crazy photo of zylog's BK in the back seat of a Fusion in my phone and will try and post that tonight.
Sorry if there were a few faces that I recognized and didnt manage to say hello, but there was just so much going on and a daughter to pay attention to as well as a schedule. While leaving I saw the London tailgate party starting and unfortunately had to go and didnt get to go over and say hi to some people. Sorry Tslam, I saw you but was just stepping into the car. Your good people and catch you next time!
I wish I could have made it to the show but I was in Nfld where it snowed, had a -5 windchill while everyone here was having a great time in 20 degree weather and playing pinball! By the time I got back I was just too zonked. Next time I will take a redbull and go and have fun with everyone. Congrats on what sounded like a fantastic event!
Ricker's current lineup;
El Dorado Flash. Royal Flush Joker Poker Volley Pioneer Barracora Black Knight Meteor Xenon
So the new guy wins the B division ??!! That's it, I'm never playing again !
Well, he does own 3 pinball machines. He just didn't know about the community. There was one guy who made it to the semi-finals of the B division that never played pinball before the weekend, but we weeded him out before the finals
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
Anyway first and foremost let me get the thank yous out of the way
Thank you to Sean for letting me use the Demoman and NBA
Thank you to Medvet while her machine didn't make it into the tournament I appreciate her effort to bring the machine down all the same
Thank you to Ian and Kim for letting me use their WOF when my Shadow was disabled, that really was a life saver and very much appreciated
Thank you to Playdium for letting me use the only Iron Man machine they brought to the event!
Thank you to all my volunteers! Dan, Mark, Jim, Brock, Eric, Ian, I could not have run the tournament without you guys and you were all a huge help!
Also a big thank you to all the Participants, as I always say these shows are only as good as the people who participate and I appreciate every single person who even though they may not be back on the Sunday for the playoffs just threw their money into the pot to help me make this more of a success. So thank you very much to everyone who participated I was happy to organize this for everyone and I hope you all enjoyed the experience!
I'm treating the tournament as a learning experience and a success, while I did end up losing money at the end of the day (it wold have been way worse had I not won ) I had a great time putting on this tournament, meeting new people and generally finally having a tournament in the local area.
There were some issues like the disabling of the Shadow which were handled as quickly and fairly as possible and I'd say about 99% of the participants were happy with how everything was run.
End of the day I had a great time, the playoffs were a blast, I really only made it into the finals by the skin of my teeth. Literally what separated me from not making it into the finals was 200,000 points on Getaway it was that close! I firmly believe I was able to ride the high of that win and have it carry me to winning the entire thing at the end of the day.
Anyway here are some pics my dad took from the show, mostly of the tournament, I was way to busy to be running around to be taking pics Hell my biggest regret was that I didn't get to try and play the Rush machine. I did make a point of playing Brock's Batman Forever as I really am liking that game, it's pretty sweet, good score Brock!
My first Toronto pin show and my first post on this forum ... very nice event, lots of good people, and the tournament gave me a new appreciation for some of the newer games. I also discovered there's a pinball community in Ottawa, thanks to medvet and Jonny_eh.
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Maybe it's a faux pas to say what I'm about to say... but if you're bringing a game to show off and sell, then why wouldn't you spend a bit of time and clean/wax the playfield? There were a few games there that were filthy.
You may be talking about Mike's games, some of them were pretty dirty.. though, in his defense, he owns a few hundred of them so it's difficult for him to keep them all clean He was also the show organizer so his time was limited
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Additionally having game handlers to assist with setup and tear down would be beneficial. It would be just that assist and you still move your own games under your own care.
Actually there were volunteers wearing name tags all through the event (myself included), we'd have been more than happy to help people setup games for sure! But you're right, that wasn't made very clear so it'd definitely be a good point to make for next time.
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
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I dont think it is fair to criticize unless you first walk in the other persons shoes. Without the contribution of Mike Hanley, the show would not exist. And INMO the Popadiuk display was the highlight of the show.
Games for sale were generally "as is" or restored/shopped. As Nick pointed out to me in the case of his ST:TNG, just moving the machine and racking up so many plays on it got the playfield dirtied up.
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Keep groovin' to 80's pinball machines! Complete MAACA-Wacko!
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Thanks everybody! I am bagged but had a great time and it was terrific seeing so many pin friends from out Ottawa way and the GTA and putting some more faces to names from the MAACA crowd. What a great bunch!
@ Ian - send me the pics and I'll go through the bin for you, my price is that I owe you at least that for the help you gave me sorting the two bins of legs!
I'm treating the tournament as a learning experience and a success, while I did end up losing money at the end of the day (it wold have been way worse had I not won ) I had a great time putting on this tournament, meeting new people and generally finally having a tournament in the local area.
We really appreciate all the effort you put into these tournaments. It really is a handful to manage all the people while keeping the tournament as equitable as possible. I think you did a tremendous job of organizing this and other events.
I was a little concerned about the fact you had to put up a fixed amount on the prize as there was little precidence to go by in terms of how many would come out and qualify. Not sure how to deal with it in the future but we as a group shouldn't expect you to soley foot the bill in future. Hopefully greater future participation will offset the cost but there has to be a better solution than you fronting all the prize money.
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
We really appreciate all the effort you put into these tournaments. It really is a handful to manage all the people while keeping the tournament as equitable as possible. I think you did a tremendous job of organizing this and other events.
I was a little concerned about the fact you had to put up a fixed amount on the prize as there was little precidence to go by in terms of how many would come out and qualify. Not sure how to deal with it in the future but we as a group shouldn't expect you to soley foot the bill in future. Hopefully greater future participation will offset the cost but there has to be a better solution than you fronting all the prize money.
Yes it was a relief that you won!
I had to put up the set prize pool because of the law in Ontario. I figured if I made the pot substantial enough it would draw in a few people. I figured if the Canadian Championship had 138 people, it didn't seem unreasonable that I would get 40 people in the A division and if that had of happened I'm sure I would have been much better off. But the thing that really worked against me is the fact that the IFAP World Championship is this weekend coming. So anyone who I was hoping to draw from the US, my chances of them actually coming went down to about 0. I knew Trent would come because he goes to everything, but Robert and Bob were a complete surprise to me but I was very happy to have both of them there.
Going forward, this is where the software that John made is amazing, it lets me know the exact amount of cash taken in. So with that I can now set a much more realistic prize pool for the next tournament.
We will just have to see if Nick and Mike actually do this again as from talking to them I think the fared much worse then I did. They didn't get the opportunity to win their money back.
Going forward, this is where the software that John made is amazing, it lets me know the exact amount of cash taken in. So with that I can now set a much more realistic prize pool for the next tournament.
What I thought was really cool was the online real-time standings: http://www.abpythons.ca/tpcStandings.html. I was able to watch the rankings shift at home and yell and scream and punch and fantasize about what pin I needed to play to push my rank back up.
Next year, you need cameras streaming split-screen (player/playfield) real-time video so I can actually see who I need to jinx and exactly when. It would be appreciated if the cameras were off when I played though; I heard that cameras steal your soul.
Much to Sean's chagrin, I successfully absorbed his mojo after he agreed to rub my head for good luck.
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
What I thought was really cool was the online real-time standings: http://www.abpythons.ca/tpcStandings.html. I was able to watch the rankings shift at home and yell and scream and punch and fantasize about what pin I needed to play to push my rank back up.
Next year, you need cameras streaming split-screen (player/playfield) real-time video so I can actually see who I need to jinx and exactly when. It would be appreciated if the cameras were off when I played though; I heard that cameras steal your soul.
Much to Sean's chagrin, I successfully absorbed his mojo after he agreed to rub my head for good luck.
What were you cursing about???!! You qualified and didn't even show up to play
Yup, I did!! What I didn't benefit from was the jerk who brought the Drac pin... I had never played it before, and do NOT have a desire to do so again. Most.. Frustrating... Pin... EVAR!
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
I was playing Fire Rescue while the Totem fried... smelled like a cigarette filter burning. I didn't know it was the Totem 4 machines away.
I love the little note that a member put on it afterwards. It said "Fire Sale". lol
Last night when loading up to go home, we were parked beside the truck with the "smoke signal" Totem in the back. Even though we were outside we could still smell that awful toxic smell from the game. I didn't see it smoking inside - when I walked by I thought Asteroids was going up in smoke so tried to get Christine to unplug it. Then I noticed the sign on Totem and the cut power cord.
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I really hate to hear that the backers lost money. The odds of future events will be slim to zero in that case.
Perhaps there is a cheaper venue and also a location that will allow an outdoor flea market. Maybe a church auditorium or something.
I dont think there were as many people outside the usuals showing up. It had occurred to me that if there had been some more PR then some cheap/free advertising would have resulted. You know, getting someone on another BT episode, radio, etc. Also newspaper articles, what's on etc. I did not really see any of that type of exposure if there was any. I had an old girlfriend in PR who used to get all that type of stuff going for various groups. I even remember one that had to do with model train hobbiests. It would have drawn out more paying attendance outside the usuals. Obviously without doing that, the numbers might not have been enough.
The event itself was awesome. Now, if there were a couple hundred more people per day perhaps all the bills would have easily been covered. It is a strategic thing and does not necessarily require paid advertising.
I dont think there were as many people outside the usuals showing up. It had occurred to me that if there had been some more PR then some cheap/free advertising would have resulted.
Good point, but they did try. Nick was on the radio, they did door-to-door flyer promotion, there was an ad in the Toronto Sun, etc. Every bit helps. I guess you have to know how to hit the target audience.
We also wondered about the date - perhaps a bit earlier with crappy weather (but not wintery enough with bad driving conditions). I don't really have any great ideas ...
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
It was also very close to Allentown, which probably kept some of the US fellas from coming.
Could be. Also with the Cdn$ almost at par with the US$, the US guys don't have as much incentive to come up here to buy games as they did in the past.
We also wondered about the date - perhaps a bit earlier with crappy weather (but not wintery enough with bad driving conditions). I don't really have any great ideas ...
The weather might have been a big factor; it was a nice day. Fall might be a better time. If there's a chill in the air then people are getting ready to hibernate in their basements and thinking of things to do.
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
Could be. Also with the Cdn$ almost at par with the US$, the US guys don't have as much incentive to come up here to buy games as they did in the past.
Good! Let's keep Canadian pins in Canada!
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
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I have suggested trying to twin with another event also to share costs and audiences. A parking lot boot sale brings it back to the collector, but it takes years to build up the kind of following that Allentown receives.
Man, that really REALLY stinks that people lost money to run it. I mean, I lost money... but I stink at pinball so that's to be expected. Set up an account, and I'll send you $20. Pretend I played some more in the tourney... I'm very confident it wouldn't have changed my standing.
I'm serious about the $20. If people lose money, they'll never do it again - so we should maybe chip in and offset the loss a bit? Just my 2000 cents.
Now I feel guilty about winning money at the tourney. Where can I donate it to assuage my guilt?
On Websherpa's suggestion, could the show be combined with video game tournament? Or is the local classic video game scene also not very big?
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
The weather might have been a big factor; it was a nice day. Fall might be a better time. If there's a chill in the air then people are getting ready to hibernate in their basements and thinking of things to do.
People's wallets loosen in Spring, but good weather (or the prospect of it) keeps all but the hardcores away. Lack of paying vendors is what hit the show's bottom line most, not the lack of attendees. In a recession, costs are tight, and booth rental was considered expensive. At least, that is my opinion. The only reason I did reasonably well was because I was selling off things below market value in order to divest myself and not to out and out make a profit. Other vendors there faired worse. Working machines were bought and sold though. Things I bought to sell at the show specifically did not sell very well (like Pinball 1010 DVDs). I think I need a top heavy young blonde in a wet t-shirt to sell DVDs for me the next time.....
Separate topic. I noticed at the show so many of the games had one ball played before people walked away. Or a four-player game started and the game was sitting on player 2, ball 1. I know this happens a lot but I noticed it more than usual ... Late Sat I adjusted my game to only allow single player games to prevent the 4-player thing from happening.
Non-collectors just nibbling at the buffet? Bored collectors saying meh? One industrious kid with ADD?
PS- I bought the DVD and whoever wants to test my skills...LOOKOUT! There's some really good stuff in there I never considered.
I bet the Pinball 101's Shadow ramp trick is what broke Adam's left Shadow ramp
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
... Things I bought to sell at the show specifically did not sell very well (like Pinball 1010 DVDs). I think I need a top heavy young blonde in a wet t-shirt to sell DVDs for me the next time.....
Pffft! That trick will never work on me!
(I prefer brunettes)
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
Keep groovin' to 80's pinball machines! Complete MAACA-Wacko!
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I had thought that Mike had a volunteer going around re-setting games, but that is something worth suggesting for next year.
I can't speak for Mike, Adam and Nick, but as one of the show's sponsors, I will say that I doubt any of us were really in it to "make" money. The real vendors I feel for; it's them we need to attract to make the show more interesting and solid.
Breaking even would have been nice. I'll bet a profit would have been invested in the next year's show.
I did acheive my goal (clear out room in one of my pin sheds), but when you balance that against unsold commercial items bought for the show - like DVDs and "nut machines," plus factor in my sponsorship of the web site, then it was an expensive show ! Let alone Nick and Mike who fronted cash for the venue. But do I regret it? Not in the least.
I only know Mike, Adam and Nick casually, but I get that they have a real love of the hobby and want to have an annual show / get-together for Canada so we can keep this hobby and pinball manufacturing alive. We are all very happy that the collectors pitched in with machines, volunteer help and travelling to come to take part in the show and tournament, that kind of dedication is awesome.
I have not frequented other shows, but I suspect that vendors want access to a pool of collectors AND spectators, and therefore the combination of vendor fees PLUS a wide attendance is what makes a show get bigger and better. I think the guys wanted to move it to a more accessible, public local like the International Centre to increase the show's exposure to the general public.
... But maybe the best course of action is to take it back to a church or legion hall rental, open up the boot sale (parking lot flea market), and attract at least one celebrity guest. And just let the thing grow on its own pace. Once you know your annual attendance, you can normally bank on the same or better the following year, and can adjust the scale and attract new vendors with confidence accordingly. It will be interesting to hear whether Chris at Coinmaker felt it was worthwhile.
I've been to a few train shows held in the halls and gym of high schools and can tell you the attendance is phenomenal... perhaps it's the scale of the hobby (no pun intended, ho ho ho), but I know we go just to take the kids to see slot car and train models. Perhaps pinballs won't hold the same facination for most families?
Perhaps there is a cheaper venue and also a location that will allow an outdoor flea market. Maybe a church auditorium or something.
Exactly. The International Centre is maybe too upscale for this kind of thing. The reality likely is that people who come to these shows are likely enthusiast and will come to wherever the show is held as long as it's within reasonable distance from a major population base. I am guessing that having it in a high visibility location like the International Centre probably didn't add too much to the door.
Sure it may mean moving games a little further but the hard part is getting them in and out of the truck not driving the truck.
Another option would be to tag on with a regular outdoor event. Car show or air show for example. This could be an additional draw and offset the cost of advertising by working together with the show. You can fit a lot of games into an empty hangar.
Are there any big antique shows? What about comic book/sci-fi conventions?
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
I will also donate some cash to be put towards the loss. I want to see the show come back for sure.
Having a relatively attractive sales "person" deffinitely helps. I did buy a Tshirt ya know ... I have a fealing it won't look as good on me though.
Next year, if it happens I will make the effort to bring some projects and some unique pieces. I could't justify the cost this year and I really wanted to see how it went first.
And for SURE next year i'll make the Sunday part of the Tourny. I regret not making it but I other plans that day.
I did manage to sell a few pins in the parking lot and bought a Road Show . However that was all pre-arranged.
Pins : Vids:
Demolition Man Robotron Mini High Speed Make Trax Mini Whirlwind Sinistar Mini Apollo 13 Jrok WIlliams Multi Mini Road Show 1069 in 1 big mofo Batman Forever
Gone: Spy Hunter, TMNT, Raven, Mr Mrs Pac, Totem, Torch, Coney Island, Escape From the Lost World, Lights Camera Action, Pinbot , Police Force, Special Force, JPTLW, Baywatch, Maverick, South Park, FIRE! x2, F14 Tomcat, Twister
I was a little concerned about the fact you had to put up a fixed amount on the prize as there was little precidence to go by in terms of how many would come out and qualify. Not sure how to deal with it in the future but we as a group shouldn't expect you to soley foot the bill in future.
Geez, I hadn't realized that the tournament was a losing venture ... if I had, I might have played more qualifiers! Now I feel a little guilty!
If Ontario doesn't allow a variable prize pool, will it allow variable entry fees? Suppose it cost $25 to enter instead of $10, but you got a refund of part of your entry fee if there were enough entries? Nah, probably too much effort.
Anyway, I'm happy to chip in towards the loss too. LMK how to go about it.
I had to work Sunday afternoon or I SOOOOOO woulda signed up
TSPP is here!! STTNG on the way! Tommy Stargate High Speed Genesis Aztec
Off to other homes to be enjoyed...Freddy a Nightmare on Elm St, Pinbot, F-14, Robocop, Monday Night Football, Flash Gordon, Mr & Mrs Pacman, Meteor, Jurassic Park, Grand Lizard, City Slicker, Baby Pac-man, Wheel Of Fortune and T2 has moved on...man I miss these things when I sell them!
Guys my intention was not to garner sympathy for taking a loss, my experience was positive and I was happy to do it . Had I not come in first I'm sure my experience would be very different but I did.
Let me make this very clear....
In no way should ANY participant feel guilty AT ALL that they won any prize money! I cannot stress that enough, you earned that money, you did exactly what I told everyone they should do and that is participate. I had a number of other members say they were willing to help out financially and I told them the same thing I'm telling you guys, if you want to help just play, that is the best thing you can do to help. That is all I wanted for people to play in the tournament, enjoy what they were doing and participate, that was the best thing you could do if you wanted to help out the tournament.
I'm not looking to make a profit at all all I wanted to do was break even and at the end of the day I almost did that. The money I did lose was not more then I have spent in the past to attend an tournament such as PAPA. So I look at it from the perspective that I was just entering at another tournament. Like I said had I not won I'm sure I would have a very different tune, but I did so the loss is no where near what it could have been. If you want o know exactly what I lost feel free to PM me as I have no problem sharing that information but I don't want to post it publicly as I didn't want this as a response.
If anything, I just want to repeat, if you are feeling bad and wish you could have done more, my advice is do just that, next time the show comes around spend that extra $20 at the tournament or buy something off one of the vendors, putting the money back into the show while the show is running is the best way to ensure that the show continues.
I can't speak for Nick or Mike as I don't have any visibility into their end of things, but I am happy with the outcome at the end of the day and no one, and I repeat no one especially the winners should feel bad about how the outcome of the tournament. I was happy to do it, had a great time and look forward to the opportunity to do it again.
Another way to help is to click the little "donate" button at the top of the site You're donating to the same community regardless! Though not a sponsor, MAACA was a big part of the show as well! And Ian especially does a lot for this hobby.
As for venues, I was thinking.. Ottogd, MrNiceguy and I went to an auction at the Milton fairgrounds, I wonder if that facility would be big enough? They actually had quite a few halls, so even if the room in one wasn't big enough, two might be sufficient (although they're pretty big -- and with a kitchen area!) Just a thought
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
As for venues, I was thinking.. Ottogd, MrNiceguy and I went to an auction at the Milton fairgrounds, I wonder if that facility would be big enough? They actually had quite a few halls, so even if the room in one wasn't big enough, two might be sufficient (although they're pretty big -- and with a kitchen area!) Just a thought
Everyone can get to Toronto...not everyone is willing to drive to Milton....it's substantially further for us "Easterners".
Ask Playdium Store if they really want to be a sponsor, donate their back building, or the old building on Kipling. Maybe they'll give it to you for free for the weekend.
"My power comes from my boundless rage"
** Getting Out **All that's left: (Vids) Bubbles**MAKE AN OFFER!**
If I had shown up on time I WOULD have WON the 'B' Division so it would only make sense that the top three give me a portion of their earnings. Say 25%, because I'm not greedy. That means Phil owes me $62.50, Glen owes me $25 and Jonny_eh owes me $2.50 or something. HOWEVER, in lieu of money I will accept that Phil buys himself one of Wayne's nut machines and thinks of me whenever he has a mouthful of salty nuts; Glen buys a Pinball 101 dvd to help himself win second again next year (because I'll show up on time); and Jonny_eh can ... buy himself a chocolate bar. I prefer Turkish Delight.
Enjoy!
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
Bish, I hear what you're saying.. but really, any fairgrounds with enclosed hall rentals would do. It's kinda tough to find a central location for everyone, especially with trying to get the US guys to come
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
Bish, I hear what you're saying.. but really, any fairgrounds with enclosed hall rentals would do. It's kinda tough to find a central location for everyone, especially with trying to get the US guys to come
Yes...but Toronto is pretty central for everyone, and the US guys have heard of it. I'm not so fussy where in Toronto you hold it, but let's face it...you need a large population center as the base. If you hold it in rural hickville, you limit who will come.
"My power comes from my boundless rage"
** Getting Out **All that's left: (Vids) Bubbles**MAKE AN OFFER!**
All they wanna play there is Super Offroad and Stargate.
Compared to Toronto...yup. Sorry if you're a Miltoner...but I'd be happy to group Peterborough into that class too, if it mends your delicate sensibilities.
"My power comes from my boundless rage"
** Getting Out **All that's left: (Vids) Bubbles**MAKE AN OFFER!**
Compared to Toronto...yup. Sorry if you're a Miltoner...but I'd be happy to group Peterborough into that class too, if it mends your delicate sensibilities.
There's a natural superiority complex associated with living in Brampton aka Flowertown. "All Roads Lead to Brampton!"
BK's restoration has begun! We started retouching the existing playfield, but we found that Workingpins had a spare for us. Now we get to do a PF swap! Anyone have a spare sys7 power board available? (driver board too)
Are there any big antique shows? What about comic book/sci-fi conventions?
I wondered why there was no console items? I don't see why the two can't co-exist with some vendors selling classic carts etc... It would attract the console crowd and possibly introduce them to pinball/videogames and conversely, it seems that some arcade collectors also collect videogames.
BK's restoration has begun! We started retouching the existing playfield, but we found that Workingpins had a spare for us. Now we get to do a PF swap! Anyone have a spare sys7 power board available? (driver board too)
Those pictures looked like a car, giving birth to a pinball machine.
Man you're fast. I've been working on one (that is still in pieces being restored) for almost three years now (or so it's potential owner keeps reminding me)... Meeting Xylog and spouse and sharing in your excitement was truly one of the highlights of the show for Kari (my booth helper) and I!
I wondered why there was no console items? I don't see why the two can't co-exist with some vendors selling classic carts etc... It would attract the console crowd and possibly introduce them to pinball/videogames and conversely, it seems that some arcade collectors also collect videogames.
That would work.
We'll have to wait and see what the verdict is on Nick and Mike running it again.
Ok Adam, point taken. I spent all my winnings on cocaine and hookers tonight.
Have
Want
-The Getaway: High Speed II!! -Spider-Man -F-14 Tomcat -Guns N' Roses -Lord of the Rings -Twilight Zone
-Medieval Madness! -Indiana Jones (Williams) -Star Trek: The Next Generation -Champion Pub -Terminator 3 -Congo -Johnny Mnemonic -Tales of the Arabian Nights
TSPP is here!! STTNG on the way! Tommy Stargate High Speed Genesis Aztec
Off to other homes to be enjoyed...Freddy a Nightmare on Elm St, Pinbot, F-14, Robocop, Monday Night Football, Flash Gordon, Mr & Mrs Pacman, Meteor, Jurassic Park, Grand Lizard, City Slicker, Baby Pac-man, Wheel Of Fortune and T2 has moved on...man I miss these things when I sell them!
Yes, many thanks to everyone who helped out putting on this show, it was my first of any sort and I had a blast. Great to meet a lot of MAACA members also.
Are there any big antique shows? What about comic book/sci-fi conventions?
There are two comic conventions that I know of-I can't remember who runs the spring one, but the one in late august is the Hobbystar show (Fan Expo), and it's a comics/scifi/anime/toy show. There's probably some crossover between the communities, but I don't know if there'd be enough to justify getting in on them. The shows are also much larger, and held downtown at the toronto convention centre.
Keep groovin' to 80's pinball machines! Complete MAACA-Wacko!
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I'm beginning to think that the right location for a Pinball show is Niagara Falls. Built in "kitch" tourist audience. The purists here will travel. Food, hotels, attractions, casinos. Can be scheduled as a tour bus attraction. Close to the border. People will see it as an opportunity for a weekend "pinball" mini-vacation. I'm relatively close to it. Good location rain or shine because people have to travel anyways. You know, all good.
Maybe twin with the Rochester Show and move it there. Ideas are just that, ideas.
I'm beginning to think that the right location for a Pinball show is Niagara Falls
This sounds like an excellent idea ! To be held in the fall ? Is there a decent hall on Lundy's Lane that would offer free parking and cheaper to rent than downtown or than Toronto ?
Cheers, - Sylvain.
Looking for 1966 Bally Capersville, 1967 Bally The Wiggler, 1981 Stern Viper, 1986 Pinstar Gamatron, 1986 Williams Grand Lizard, 1991 Williams Bride of Pinbot, and a few others. Cash or some trades available. Could also repair a machine of yours +/-$ if needed, in exchange for one machine on my want list, non-working/unshopped welcome!
Maybe twin with the Rochester Show and move it there. Ideas are just that, ideas.
I definitely had more fun at the Toronto Show. The Rochester show was free to attend, so I'm not sure how they made it work. I liked the Toronto show better cause everything was in free play and you didn't have to ask the guy standing near the machine to unlock the coin door to get it started.
I would be all for a venue change to something less expensive (although I have never rented space so I have no idea how much the stuff costs). If it was held a little more in Toronto proper, would it get more passer-bys coming in?
I definitely liked the mix of games at the Toronto show.
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Yes Wayne but we're now getting into a higher cost venue.
Look at Allentown...it has proven attendance year after year and a far greater number of vendors within the US. Still, they hold it at the Agriplex, hardly a high end venue.
The Niagara Falls show was done at an vacant shopping mall.
Pinball players are not to concerned about the venue so long as it is accessable. We here in Canada have a far more limited group of possible vendors in pinball related items.
So, I envision a church auditorium or a vacant factory somewhere near a major highway. The factory might work better since electrical service will be more suitably available.
Yes Wayne but we're now getting into a higher cost venue.
The Niagara Falls show was done at an vacant shopping mall.
So, I envision a church auditorium or a vacant factory somewhere near a major highway. The factory might work better since electrical service will be more suitably available.
That's where I was headed, not at a convention space proper (not sure how you interpreted that from my post) but an"Off Cliffton Hill" location, short term space, back to basics, but close enough to the "action" that it's accessible and still a part of the action. I think the organizers are well aware of the possibilities, but Allentown has history and a build-up that the Toronto show does not. Start again with a small venue in the right location, one that has a built-in audience, a parking lot for a boot sale (flea market). Close enough to the border to make it accessible to more US vendors. Reasonable costing motel facilities, more restaurants and attractions. Niagra Falls can be expensive for tourists, but not if you plan it right and venture away from the strip a bit.
I can't think of any Toronto venue that would be better than the International Center, except perhaps the CNE (during exhibition time) <- I suggest a tournament there to drum up public awareness of an upcoming event (again, whose got the money for dat?). But there's little point preaching to the choir, the local collectors will go anywhere within reason, it's attraction of the out -of-towners, and the non-collectors that would help put the show on the map. Otherwise just hold it anywhere with a parking lot (high school, church, legion, etc.) - keep it small and let it grow. But I reason that a smaller town location than Toronto might be a better choice because with some annual regularity, that town might want to get behind its promotion for tourist value (well Niagara Falls doesn't quite fit there).
If it doesn't come together, I'll be tallking to Nick and Mike about having it right here at the Waterdown High School. Pinball central. Near here is where all the pinball action is. !
Hangar. Really. There some of them peppered around Ontario empty, left over from the British Commonwealth Air Training plan. Someone bought these lands from the government. They just don't have use for all of the space that came with it.
Big, drive in access, lots of parking including grassed areas. As you say the Agriplex gets frequented because the show has run consistently for years. This would have to be a grassroots effort, but it would appear there are enough folks willing to pitch in to get it off the ground as long as the up front costs are minimal.
Allentown certainly isn't the center of the universe and yet they have made a go of it there. I am thinking something like Centralia Airport or Downsview Park might have the kind of unfinished space required.
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Glenn, are you willing to parachute in (or maybe rapelling from a heli is safer?) as an opening attraction? Maybe a Coors Lite model strapped to your back?
It'd be a lot cooler if you did........ MAACA-Colonel
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There's an unused military base in Prince Edward County, (The County), where they filmed the first "Canada's Worst Driver". Kind of in the middle of Toronto, and Montreal, and high in tourism because of Sandbanks Provincial Park. Lot's of parking and vendor type areas. Just a thought.
Pete
Currently own: SPIDER-MAN!!! Eight Ball KISS Gorgar Xenon Fireball II Fathom EBD Fireball Classic Taxi *Coming Soon* Mystery Pin......oooooooooooh
Having it at the Ex would be pretty wild, I think. Lots of kids playing for sure! Could reel in a few more addicts. I would be a little concerned about game abuse though.
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
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CNE is too open to the public IMHO. I wouldnt want some of the general public wandering in as they would there. Good for exposure, but expect peoples initials carved into your machines, etc.
Downsview Park could definitely work. There is more there to offer, gokarting, areospace museum, etc.
Good point, but they did try. Nick was on the radio, they did door-to-door flyer promotion, there was an ad in the Toronto Sun, etc. Every bit helps. I guess you have to know how to hit the target audience.
We also wondered about the date - perhaps a bit earlier with crappy weather (but not wintery enough with bad driving conditions). I don't really have any great ideas ...
The date was what kept me away. With a young family, I need to be very selective about what weekends I can take off to do hobby stuff. I was in Allentown for 3 days two weeks ago, so I knew months beforehand that getting to this event wasn't going to happen. I would prefer to see it a month or two in either direction from the first weekend of May. But that's just my selfishness talking. I would have loved to be there and I'm sorry I couldn't contribute by bringing a game this year. Perhaps in the future it will be more practical to attend.
I'm glad it was a success and hope it continues.
EDIT: As for location, would it be appropriate of me to say that the best part of the Allentown show is the Farmer's Market? Park yourself beside a kick-a** market with awesome food and the crowds will come.
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I had a blast, well worth the price of admission. For those that did not go this year definitely recommend you put it on your calendar for next year.
Lots of chance to play rare and unique games like Fire Escape. Very simple game but still was able to grab the attention of long-time collectors like Sylvain, Sparky and Medvet. It was my pleasure to give Medvet lessons on it, least I could since she was generous enough to bring high end machines like MM and Ripley's. I was thinking Fire Escape would make great living room furniture for me, but did not buy.
Thanks to the organizers, you put on a hell of a show.
Currently Owning Gottlieb Countdown Stern Galaxy Monte Carlo Sinbad Jungle Princess Bally Flip Flop
Looking For Bally Harlem Globetrotter Bally Bobby Orr Power Play
Previously Owned Bally Mr. & Mrs Pac Man, Gottlieb Abra Ca Dabra, Gottlieb Spirit of 76, Chicago Coin Speedway, Golden Tee 2K, Mars Trek
Hey, I enjoyed the show. Here's my 2 cents on making it more successful:
More emphasis on the "Game Room" portion would fill out the vendor portion of the show and maybe draw in a bigger crowd than just the pin niche. I'm talking jukeboxes, pachinko, home bar equipment, pool tables, shuffleboard, home theatre, game room decor (neon signs, wood signs, etc), dart boards, etc, etc
I realize this all requires a lot more work from volunteers of course, as you have to cold-call lots of vendors at least 6 or 9 months ahead of the show, send them sales materials, and convince them to plan/budget to participate. And it also requires more advertising so it reaches enough people to come visit the show (which doesn't always have to cost money to get exposure, but it costs time calling the right people and being persuasive).
Anyways, thanks for putting the show on, and I hope it will happen again.
Hey, I enjoyed the show. Here's my 2 cents on making it more successful:
More emphasis on the "Game Room" portion would fill out the vendor portion of the show and maybe draw in a bigger crowd than just the pin niche. I'm talking jukeboxes, pachinko, home bar equipment, pool tables, shuffleboard, home theatre, game room decor (neon signs, wood signs, etc), dart boards, etc, etc
I realize this all requires a lot more work from volunteers of course, as you have to cold-call lots of vendors at least 6 or 9 months ahead of the show, send them sales materials, and convince them to plan/budget to participate. And it also requires more advertising so it reaches enough people to come visit the show (which doesn't always have to cost money to get exposure, but it costs time calling the right people and being persuasive).
Anyways, thanks for putting the show on, and I hope it will happen again.
I believe that more collectors will bring a game or two next year. Many were on a "wait and see" stance.
For sure. I for one might plan earlier and maybe pool with others to get a cube van if possible.
I had a hitch installed the night before ($300+) and rented a 5' x 8' trailer for just over $30 ($19.95 + $9 insurance + tax). Worked great and I'm sure I could have brought at least 6 pins.
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
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The timing of having my daughter that weekend (first wife and I alternate) would have made it really difficult to be moving pins around. Despite appearances, parenthood is my TOP priority. On the other hand my daughter thoroughly enjoyed the show!
Hey Kevin...A trailer hitch is a great idea. I wonder what the deal on that is for a leased car? Someone a while back said that sometimes Kijiji or CL has deals, plus install or course.
Hey Kevin...A trailer hitch is a great idea. I wonder what the deal on that is for a leased car? Someone a while back said that sometimes Kijiji or CL has deals, plus install or course.
Sorry, I don't know how hitches work with leased vehicles.
I just went to Uhaul to get it done and had an abysmal experience. A 4:30 pm appointment resulted in me coming home from another Uhaul location after 9:30 pm, the Friday night before the show. The 'hitch guy' from the first location left early for the weekend and blew off my appointment. Jerks. Not happy with the service with Brampton Uhaul.
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
Own Magic, Star Gazer, Batman Forever, STTNG, Mystery Castle (project)
Gone Fairy, Secret Service, Meteor x3, Title Fight, Eight Ball Deluxe, Bone Busters Inc., Seawitch, Starship Troopers, Strange Science, Arena, Hook, Pin*Bot x2, Time Warp, Motordome, Robocop, Black hole, Jurassic Park , Wipe-Out, Pinball Pro: Challenger I, Swords of Fury, Stargate, Party Zone
May I recommend that a few of you pitch in for a cube van and do a milk run, ending at the show. It would be easier and cheaper.
That may be a cheaper, short-term solution but I like my new found freedom of not having to depend on others to pick up/deliver more than one game in my Tucson. Possible bulk deals, like Gerald's current offerings, are more of a reality now. Now I have the option of grabbing 6+ games in a 5' x 8' trailer or approx. 10+ games in a 6' x 12' for $40!!!
Yayyy! I'll finally be able to quench my thirst for more games!
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
Uhaul's a ripoff for hitches.. I got a quote last night, they want $450 to put a hitch on our Mazda 3
Did you call for a quote? Every call sends you to a call center in the US. Just call your closest Uhaul and the US rep will send them the quote directly. Just remember to say you want the electrical done as well. Like I said, I paid around $330 including tax. More than I anticipated and I'm sure I got milked a bit (1/2 hour extra labour and a more expensive wiring harness than the 1st place. ) ... but I got it done and ! was comfortably able to bring 4 pins instead of just one. And a permanent solution.
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
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Sorry, I don't know how hitches work with leased vehicles.
I just went to Uhaul to get it done and had an abysmal experience. A 4:30 pm appointment resulted in me coming home from another Uhaul location after 9:30 pm, the Friday night before the show.
Bummer! Never, never if at all possible get something done at the end of the day on a Friday. Guys are in "weekend" mode by then.
Uhaul's a ripoff for hitches.. I got a quote last night, they want $450 to put a hitch on our Mazda 3
Call around for a quote. Probably a local shop could do it for cheaper. There are usually shops that specialize in hitches. There's a place in Ottawa -- forget the name now -- that was very reasonable AND fast. I drove over, they did their stuff, and I was back on the road in less than an hour!
In the past, I loved my hidden hitch. Allowed me to buy as many games as I could afford and take them in one trip. Uhaul trialers rock. Cheap, cheap, cheap! Like $30 or so. Really nice to have the ability to buy a bunch of games and know you can get them quickly.
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There are independant places like The Hitch Shop. Can always call around. I have heard that the hitch itself can sometimes be bought on one of the online selling sites for a deal too.
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Uhaul is a last resort for anything. Avoid whenever possible. They seem to never have what I asked for at the location I requested and at the time I needed it. I realize that logistics with a company the size of Uhaul must be very complicated, but I have *never* been fully satisfied with a Uhaul experience. They exist to disappoint.
Having said that, however, they are often the only option available. Especially on short notice.
For what it's worth, I paid around $300 for the hitch on my Santa Fe from one of those Oil Guard places. After I called about a dozen hitch sellers I determined that was the best deal in town.
Uhaul is a last resort for anything. Avoid whenever possible. They seem to never have what I asked for at the location I requested and at the time I needed it.
That reminds me....if you rent a trailer from them, either watch and ensure they connect the trailer correctly and/or double check afterward. I now double check every time.
I once had a trailer disconnect as they hadn't tightened it enough. Thankfully, the trailer was connected with the chains so it didn't disconnect completely. Still was a hell of a shock driving home from Montreal at 11:30 in the evening with a couple of pins in it! Had to carefully pull over and re-attach. I was WIDE awake for the remainder of the trip home
Weird, I got mine from them installed for like $180 I think it was.
That was more like my first quote. But that fell through and I didn't specify I needed electrical ... I guess. Plus I needed the mount and ball. And I posted a sticker on my forehead that said "Sucker Who's Desperate for a Hitch".
http://www.pinballowners.com/ottogd Pins: Congo - High Speed - Cue Ball Wizard - Spirit - Eye of the Tiger - Quintette - Spectrum - Guys Dolls - Catacomb - Road Kings - Police Force - Cyclone - TX-Sector Vids: Asteroids - Centipede - Galaga - Joust - Ms Pacman - Super Sprint - Atari Cocktail (60-in-1) - Vectrex EM shooter: Midway Gang Busters EM Pitch & Bat: Upper Deck Slot: IGT 'M' Progressive ('86)
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