Looking Back

Ed Valentine

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Ed Valentine
The honorable Jim Pemberton reminded me of what I just thought about regarding Trade Shows. Thus I thank him for my time to reminisce because he and his Father were one of the originals and foundation of this great industry of ours.

But, he made me think how this industry has changed. Not sure if it's entirely for the best either ,in some respects. In the 70's/80's local trade shows were always going on along with a National show here and there.

I used to look forward to the one-on-one contacts every year because you could identify who was who, what they were looking for, and meeting their family's as well.... We just had fun. And, many of us as a group would join up after the show and go out to dinner to share stories.

People were more personally involved with each other a long with the various manufacturers and/or Dealers. Lateral selling also went on too.

Of course, there was also some of the show directors (what I will politely label as under-the-table BS) in regards to their relationships with particular companies (Won't mention what or who!) but these things were (unfortunately) always expected. I also remember "an exchange" ($) going on in the bathroom in Ohio; but that's another story! But, that was business I guess.

These directors would determine: Who was selected to speak (at the large gatherings), what displays "won" first, second, and third prizes, and who got the "preferred" booths, etc... What made this part funny and entertaining for "us" was the betting we would do to see who guessed correctly and almost always, we would hit 100%!-lol.

However, in the end, I do miss those days rather than depending on a computer screen and just a "name".

Best to all;
Ed Valentine
cross-american.com
 
Last edited:

Jim Pemberton

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Jim Pemberton
The honorable Jim Pemberton reminded me of what I just thought about regarding Trade Shows. Thus I thank him for my time to reminisce because he and his Father were one of the originals and foundation of this great industry of ours.

But, he made me think how this industry has changed. Not sure if it's entirely for the best either ,in some respects. In the 70's/80's local trade shows were always going on along with a National show here and there.

I used to look forward to the one-on-one contacts every year because you could identify who was who, what they were looking for, and meeting their family's as well.... We just had fun. And, many of us as a group would join up after the show and go out to dinner to share stories.

People were more personally involved with each other a long with the various manufacturers and/or Dealers. Lateral selling also went on too.

Of course, there was also some of the show directors (what I will politely label as under-the-table BS) in regards to their relationships with particular companies (Won't mention what or who!) but these things were (unfortunately) always expected. I also remember "an exchange" going on in the bathroom in Ohio; but that's another story! But, that was business I guess.

These directors would determine: Who was selected to speak (at the large gatherings), what displays "won" first, second, and third prizes, and who got the "preferred" booths, etc... What made this part funny and entertaining for "us" was the betting we would do to see who guessed correctly and almost always, we would hit 100%!-lol.

However, in the end, I do miss those days rather than depending on a computer screen and just a "name".

Best to all;
Ed Valentine
cross-american.com

I had forgotten those "political days" as well.

To be tactful, and respectful of the dead, I won't elaborate, as you were also gentleman enough not to either.

It was a constant source of annoyance to me, and one that tested my otherwise good nature and diplomacy.
 

bob vawter

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bob vawter
I had forgotten those "political days" as well.

To be tactful, and respectful of the dead, I won't elaborate, as you were also gentleman enough not to either.

It was a constant source of annoyance to me, and one that tested my otherwise good nature and diplomacy.
Clearly yor morals and standards are well above the average Joe here.....
But come on give it up we wanna know....
Maybe jus the dED ones.....huh?
 

The Great Oz

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seattle
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bryan
For the most part, anyone who calls me "brother", "my brother", or "my friend" are those least likely to treat me in a brotherly or friendly fashion.
Another generality is that people that use religious symbols in their advertising are doing a virtual "trust me." I've learned that trust me means hang on to your wallet,



Having been involved in trade shows from the association side, I get particularly irritated by "under the table BS" and vendor sales pitches slid in as conference seminars. Ultimately though, the guys that exaggerate attendance numbers and double-deal the vendors seem to win, so what does that mean?.
 

Jim Pemberton

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Jim Pemberton
Another generality is that people that use religious symbols in their advertising are doing a virtual "trust me." I've learned that trust me means hang on to your wallet,



Having been involved in trade shows from the association side, I get particularly irritated by "under the table BS" and vendor sales pitches slid in as conference seminars. Ultimately though, the guys that exaggerate attendance numbers and double-deal the vendors seem to win, so what does that mean?.


I know you understand much of what is being left "unsaid" here.

The idealism of my youth was rapidly replaced by bitter cynicism when I saw what these people did year after year.
 

Ed Valentine

Member
Joined
Jun 18, 2013
Messages
488
Location
Milan, MI
Name
Ed Valentine
The idealism of my youth was rapidly replaced by bitter cynicism when I saw what these people did year after year.

Truer words were never spoken, and very well said because of my exact same experience, I must agree. Like yourself, I'm guessing, I learned real fast the cost (and route!) of making it to the top.
Unfortunately, I never recalled your Father speaking or had the opportunity of hearing him speak because the "standard group" would normally dominate. Too bad because Jim & his Father would have been a great attraction for any gathering.
 
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Jimmy L

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Jimmy L
Same can be said for anyone who hides behind religion.
When they come out and say they are "Reborn" or otherwise speak of their religion they are...............not.............to ................be...............trusted

My brothers : )
 

Cleanworks

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New Westminster,BC
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Ron Marriott
Same can be said for anyone who hides behind religion.
When they come out and say they are "Reborn" or otherwise speak of their religion they are...............not.............to ................be...............trusted

My brothers : )
Thanks pal.
 

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