To raffle or not to raffle, that is the question

[Dave Mc]

Well, we're a month into taking donations for the annual Museum raffle with a month to go before we're supposed to have the completed lineup ready for ticket sales. We really appreciate the folks who have sent items so far, but to be honest, besides a few envelopes with cards, there have only been a few people send in donations.

The cash raised is how we pay the bills. Server fees, whatever software upgrades may come along, etc... It's also how we pay for shipping on all those card packages that get sent out to everyone, and how we cover any costs overruns related to the project. Membership to the Museum is free, but there are costs involved in running the place.

It seems that overall, interest in the raffle get's smaller each year. It started as a "fun" way to raise the cash to pay the bills, but if that is no longer the case, let me know. We'll go back to the annual cash drive method and just ask for donations when the bills come due.

If that method is preferable, please let me know now so we can cancel the raffle and I can send back the items that have been donated so far. If we're going to continue, we need support and it needs to be soon. We can't start selling tickets to a raffle where there are very few items.

It's up to you all. You tell me how to proceed and that's what we'll do.

This post isn't meant to lay a guilt trip down. It's just the facts. If we're going to do it, let's do it. Otherwise we'll just have to have periodic fund drives.

[Mikey]

Man, that sucks Dave

I can't believe more people here aren't donating anything.

I miss the old days when caring about Mego Museum went beyond just words.

What I would suggest is hold the raffle ... even if you don't recieve much stuff.
Perhaps people will buy tickets for the purpose of helping the Museum rather then trying to win a prize.

If worse comes to worse, you could always take donations afterward if the raffle is a bust.

What a shame.
All these people here with so much stuff and nothing to donate.

People,
Get off your assses now.
Put some stock behind your words.

[livnxxxl]

I am all for holding the raffle still so long of course as it is feasible for you to do so. I am sure that the current state of the economy has a lot to do with it. I believe that alot of members kind of hold off to see what is already donated before sending in donations. I know I do. I hate sending duplicates of stuff. There is alot more members that wait last minute kind of like some do their Christmas shopping for gifts. Atleast that is how it appeared to me according to the raffle last year. Hopefully things will turn around and more donations will arrive soon to keep up the great raffle. I to wish to donate as well I just am not sure what to send yet. Looks like the Klingon donations have pretty much been covered.

Of course T1K could up the ante this year and donate the difference needed. haha Kidding T1K. Don't go and spit in my Star Wars figures that I am about to purchase from you. LOL

Besides all of the above I really like it when Nayrbgo wins everything!! NOT!! That lucky son of a Mego raffle ticket buyer.

[Marvelmania]

The raffle has always been great fun to participate in. It kind of slipped my mind until now. I'm sure I can find some things to donate and should get them shipped to you by the end of the week Dave.

[vulcan2074]

I say keep the raffle. I Love raffles. I Really want the Super Joe stuff and of Course the Hero Belt. Why not do the raffle and donations. I think that would work out great
Sammy

[SlipperyLilSuckers]

I usually try to donate something each year, but last year I decided that the high cost of postage (from Australia) would have been better spent on tickets...not with the aim of winning, just thinkin' the money would be better in the raffle barrel than in the post office's pocket.

[livnxxxl]

I usually try to donate something each year, but last year I decided that the high cost of postage (from Australia) would have been better spent on tickets...not with the aim of winning, just thinkin' the money would be better in the raffle barrel than in the post office's pocket.

Now that just gave me an idea. How about donating money? Everyone could always use money. Even Bill Gates and Warren Buffet are always seeking new ways to make more money.


Is there any policy against sending money for the raffle?

I am thinking that I may send money this year. No postage cost, Instant transfer, Very useable donation. Any objections?

[Meule]

Don't give up the raffle. If anything this is a good wake-up call for everyone. I for one am gonna donate some stuff, I have two weeks off at work next week and I'll be spending one in Spain, but that leaves one week to get together some stuff and send it your way.

[Dave Mc]

If we do the raffle, there is no need to send money as a donation at this point. Just buying a bunch of tickets will be the same as a donation.

Cat makes an excellent point, especially for folks in certain countries. She spent a pretty good chunk of change just shipping items last year that just went into the postal service pocket. Likewise, if she would have won something, it would have cost a chunk sending it back, depending on what it was she would have won. In Cat's case, more money would have been raised in the case of a donation than was by donating items and buying tickets. Which is one of the concerns that raises this question. If we're having fun with it and still want to support it, it's worth the expense, but if we're not, then perhaps it's time to let it go and just donate funds when the time comes.

Seriously, this isn't meant as a guilt thing, it's a straight up question. Is it fun enough to be worth it? Is there still enough interest to support it?

[4NDR01D]

I'd like to participate in anyway I can, whether it be donating money or buying raffle tickets. Count me in.
Andy

[Dave Mc]

I'm sending alot of small and interesting stuff soon. Or as soon as I get it together. Are the pictures up of the things that have been donated so far?

Everything that has been donated so far is up, except a nice shipment I just got in today. Of the items posted, the Cap belt was actually donated last year from the person who won it in last years raffle, and one of the boxes of stuff was donated months ago by a member who was cleaning out his closet and wanted to send stuff before he forgot. Since we put out the official call, we've gotten donations from 3 people I think.

[jessica]

Aw shucks. I was running out of the house and forgot my package. I will get it to you in the mail tomorrow, Dave.

[z3zep]

Dave, I am putting together some stuff.

[Riffster]

i wish i had something to donate for a raffle. but I can donate money if it comes to it

[SUP-Ronin]

I'm a slacker on this. I'll send some stuff this week. I wanted to make a custom too, but have to assess my parts.