SMC Discussion Areas

Well I have had it I have been threaten twice this week once called some pretty bad things and this person would like to shove bottle rack up my A :censored: and second my good name  and these  have broke  the camel back .One because I did not delete a post over a model  that they were wrong on . and second
 because  someone can't take joking around on a post .  I remember  when this site was fun when we could joke around  and there was some good conversations going on and some cool tricks to be learned and there was also some good dealsthat happened over the years.

   Well now we have some people that can't take the words they are wrong and this is why and the post wont be deleted . and others that can't take joking around on a post and want the bad post deleted  and when you see no harm  they come back to say they are going to screw with these members  and you tell them  do what they think they have to do , and you post their responces on the forum  , They say it not very professional by posting my responses  up on the forum .   well to both of you both post have been deleted  so now you can be happy in you own little world...

  I'm just tired of all this bull s :censored:t    I'm done being on this site and taking crap from member that can't take joking around or told No
and you two know who you are  I'm not afraid I'm not hidding behind a AKA  my name is out there  for everybody. And one of you told me your going to tell all your peeps my email and tell them a story well don't forget to tell them you did not like the other member joking around on a post  , And I'm sure we probably know the same people so that should be fun .

 good by 

Pat, I was going to put this in a PM, but I think the message is better off for everyone to see

I am pretty disappointed to hear what's going on here, this place has always been somewhere that's beyond a forum of random collectors of soda machines and related stuff...I was beyond happy when I found this site five years ago after I found my first machine, first impression was lots of great information and people willing to help out.  My second impression was what kept me here, everyone has respect for each other and the 'legends' of the site (you soda jerks) really had some amazing experience and information for anyone getting into the hobby.  I still always think of my group of friends back home, our best times are when we are all jabbing at each other, helping each other out with WHATEVER we need, but giving some !%@$ left and right for the insignificant stuff, women, whatever...  That's what made us all good friends, and that's the same stuff that goes on here.  People need to lighten up, take things with a grain of salt and just roll with the flow. 

Your "goodbye" hurts, and isn't right...If people want to sit behind false monikers and throw paper tigers, fine...but they are going to be the ones that are missing out on the true resources of this forum.

I think people that dont like what there reading should (A) Dont read it, or (B) LEAVE THE SITE! :darn:  And Pat, Your not the person to leave!  Just my 2 cents.

        Well I vote that Pat stays and the crybabies leave!

Pat,  I dont post much up on this site but I check it every evening and sometimes during the day.  I have been a member for several years and I can tell you I have learned a lot from guys like you, Johnny, Jim.  Made friends with great people like Joey, Eric and Dave.

Now I do not know who you are talking about but you are a class act and I wish you would reconsider not posting up here anymore.  This is a great site that 99 % of the peole are simply really enjoying these great machines and the era they came from.  You have helped so many on this site.

The problem with trying to be cute or joke around with guys on a website is that if you do not personally know them you can offend easier because it is just print and you can not convey the personal emotion in a voice or facial expression.  I am 63 years old and retired from a  very stressful job that I had to leave because I could not adapt to all the computer and cell phone technology as a way to communicate,  I want to look people in the eye when I talk to them and I found that made it more civil. 
I ramble a bit but the point I want to make is dont let other people determine when you leave something you enjoy and then only when it no longer makes you happy.  I think if you wait 24 hours and put those who offended you on the shelf you will realize that you will be missed and they won and we lost.

Please reconsider G.B.

I r

 Hey . Pat  (Friend &Buddy )

 I know How you Feel !!  I DO NOT !!!  Want you to Give in to the few . We as the Many Know YOUR a GREAT GUY !!  Some people need to let Go .

I agree with Asbear  You Know I have a StressFul job also And I'm Not Good On Computers  Either .I'm on here on & Off all Day . And I Visit YOUR site a couple times a Day Also !! This Site & Most Of the People Here Are Great .It's Hard For Me to understand A little Joking Around Helps Releive STRESS !!!!!

And As My Wife Says I Talk on the Phone With You More then I talk to Her.  

I hope You'll Be around . But Either Way Your My Friend & I'll Be Calling you As Always >>

 Your Friend Allways
   Leonard

I told you guys...

You big mouthed, blow hard, trolls can take your opinions and threats....and shove it up your bottle chute.
There are a few, who have been here since the beginning, and Pat is one of us. I agree. this site is NOT
the same, as years past. When I heard of people sending emails to people who have items for sale as well
as companies who restore things, that are nasty, or needing to "set them straight" or give a "reality check"...
and then WHINE about it....BUNCH OF FU*KING BABIES!!!

Now...taking personal shots at a "senior" member of this site???

I knew it was a matter of time, before the "Village Idiots" got loose. I need to slap your Mommas, for not
teaching you any manners. I bet you little "fu*ktards" are the same morons who were put in "time out" or because
it wasn't fair....got a ribbon for 26th place, just so you could feel good about yourself...Mommy didn't do her job,
did she? I'm pretty sure it would be okay....for you to leave the site now and take your little "pussie" friends with you.

Pat...I've got your back....

Pat, all I will say is that I have talked with you personally on the phone on several occasions and know that you are a class act.  For those that are too sensitive to be on this site and feel like they have to throw out verbal abuse I say kick them from the site.  No one has the right to access this site, (except maybe Jim since it is his site)it is a privilage and comes with the responsibility of acting like civil human being.  I call it a no jackass policy.  I am sure Jim would agree to that.

Pat,

I too have been a long standard member and am troubled with the overall direction of the site lately.  It used to be a site for hobbyists and enthusiasts.  Unfortunately, money seems to be the culprit.  I would prefer a site that focuses on free advise and "cool finds".

I have received and given almost 9 years of free advise on this site.  That is what I like most about it.  The hobby has become a business to many "members" and I think that has taken us into the wrong direction.

I hope you stay on Pat.  I also hope the site will place less emphasis on the dollar value and more on our passion for soda machines and other coin op devises.

Just my .02.

BC

I agree!

I cannot believe that these guys can't recognize a joke!! Give me a break! I got a good chuckle out of it. Post a "Want Ad" if you are thin-skinned.
It is just like TV...if you don't like what the channel plays, then change the channel!! Don't give in to these A-Holes! Ban their IP address!!
Stick around Pat!

You'd leave this site because of a couple members?... I've been done wrong by a couple... and I'm still here
Is it the same site? No, times change...  I have made some great friends because of this site and I enjoy popping in and
seeing what is still being found out there... And if I can help some member out with what little I know I'll post
I've been here a long time and I'm staying...

Looks/Sounds like the site might need some new rules and some folks need to really stop and think before they post...

It's because of threads like this and others that will give this site a bad name like oldgas. and cause folks that
really want to collect/learn about this hobby to stay away.

I may only be a newbie here, but isn't the point that you guys are a resource for us to all learn by?  I have appreciated every bit of information that I have been able to get from this group free of charge, try and get someone else to tear apart their own machines etc to get someone a piece of information they need.  What the hell happened to being humble and thankful for what people are kind enough to offer on the site?  When someone is offering info, its yours to take or leave, not to whine about and disagree with.  If you don't agree, don't reply to the answer!!! I think it would be a shame to see Pat leave the site.........whiners get yourselves in check, life's too short

We'll not really sure what happened but I do know I was part of that thread on the "VMC 81 Want Ad" , and if I contributed in some wrong matter , I'm sorry , but like others have said,, I treat many people on here like they are my friends and freinds joke around.. i have some closer friends on this "Website" than in person, mainly because of the Hobby that we all love SODA MACHINES.  Pat you are one of those guys who I call a friend and would hate to see you leave over some idiots who can't take a joke.. and I don't even know who they are but if they want a censored, politically correct site, then go make your own I say.

We'll talk to you soon I hope!

John
Signguy

     That's right!   Change the channel......don't call up the producers!

Wow... I feel like I missed out by not seeing the post now..

Pat
  Sorry to see things getting tough for you. Try and let it roll of the shoulders.
Tom

Sounds like everyone involved is taking things too seriously.  :shrug: :2cents:

 That's Why Were A Family Here . Attack One Attach All .

   Pat Is a Personal Friend To Me And Others . I know HE Has done nothing but  Promoting this Hobby and Helping Others . I know I have Helped Other's In Finding & Giving Parts To Help them Finish Projects .
And there Have BEEN Many of YOU guys that have Helped Me !! 

Sometime Money Dose Seem to get in the way (BUT Not In My BOOK !!!) 
SOME !!  BUT Not All Of the Newer Members Need To Lighten Up !! 

John,
You are as much to blame as Dave across the pond, who didn't even see the thread. Like you say, friends joke around and that is all it was. Whoever didn't get a laugh out of the thread needs to take a chill pill or go somewhere else!
I think it is Jeff Walters using another alias stirring up trouble here!  :laugh:

 :laugh: :laugh:

Pat,

To echo the others..."Request denied.  You ain't going!"  Seriously, please reconsider and stay.  I found this site over 10 years ago and have reaped the benefits of folks like you, Jim, John (Signguy), Tom (collecture), Eric (globalcompressors), Glen (Moondawg), Tim, Leonard, Dave, etc. etc. etc.

I don't post as much as some, but I do read a lot of posts and NEVER have I had any reason to doubt your credibility, honesty, and character.  

As Leonard said, we are a family.  I truly treasure the relationships I've fostered here.  Although they wouldn't exist if not for the site, I know they now would continue if the site did not.  What has always struck me to the core is the way folks will go out of their way to help.  For example...

- I've asked for things only to have them supplied either free or for the cost of shipping.  
- I've called Eric at Global many times and he would stay on the phone as long as needed to answer a question...time when he could be making money for himself and his family.  
- I've seen the photos of the folks at the CoinOp shows, heard the stories of the Michigan Mafia and the stories of how folks are directing others towards machines/parts with no expectation of renumeration.

Unfortunately, sometimes, disagreements occur in any situation, but sometimes people can't act like they've got some smart to them.  Sometimes it's tough to shake your fist in your pocket, and there's never a reason to get personal against some one.  Although I cannot speak to your disappointment and frustration, please accept the extension of my hand in a "virtual handshake" for your presence here.  I understand if you feel compelled to leave completely or to just take a break and head to the "Betty Board Clinic".  Regardless, there is and always will be a large contingent of folks who know your character.

Selfishly, I ask for you to reconsider, but I honestly want you to do what you feel is best for you.  Either way, I consider it an honor to have gotten to know you through the hobby.  I hope others can see the error in their ways and act like the adults we are.

My best,

Wayne Strine

Most times when I meet someone new who I am dealing with, whether buying or selling the conversation almost always hits on oldgas and this forum.  If the person I am talking to is unfamilar with the 2 sites they usually ask what they are like and I always tell them the same thing.  Great info on both sites, more commerce on oldgas but a less friendly crowd, more of an old boys network not very welcoming to us newbies.  But, I tell them how friendly and light the forum here is.....please don't become oldgas everyone.  Just my two cents

Pat,
I am brand new to this site.  I am restoring my first machine and would not be as far along with it without the help from in here.  Everyone has been extremely helpful and patient with me.  That environment was created by you and the other veterans of this forum.  You must stay to help continue this.  I know I will try to be as helpful to other newbies to "pay it forward" whenever I can because of the help I have already received.

I can't help but laugh as I struggled to get my slug rejector to work.  After reading some posts on this site, I put it in the dishwasher.  My wifes face was priceless.  "you're going to put that thing in the dishwasher--Are you crazy??".  No I am not crazy. I read it here. and it worked--well sort of.  The nickels and quarters make it through now but not the dimes...And I am sure if I can't find older posts that address this problem someone on here will gladly help me.
You need to stay to continue this.

Ken

I think it was due to some nasty things that were said in some PMs. I don't remember anything being posted about somebody getting a model wrong, but I could have missed it. Regardless, take a breath Pat and stay.

Pat - I hear they accept outpatients!  :biggrin: :biggrin:

Pat,

April fools day isn't for another eight weeks or so.  That was a good one.  You had us all going for awhile.  Oh, you're serious....really....just tell that person to F*** off and be done with it.
 :veryangry: :biggrin:

couldn't say it any better. I know I am new to the site, but i haven't read anything that i found offensive.  hope you stay Pat. 

I've known Pat as long as any, on this site. Like posted earlier, attack one...you get us all, especially those of us who
have been here the past 8 or 10 years.

I saw this coming, from the idiots who post all about restoration shows, picker shows, craigslist and ebay sales, and then
to have the audacity to come on here and "slam away" because you are a cry baby little bitch and CAN'T have it your way.

I stand by what I've said before and I echo what has been said here...this a site, full of great information, and a TON of experienced
people willing to share. You want it...fine, enjoy the site. You don't, and you only care about mocking others, about info, experience, or their work...
then piss off!

I've NEVER beat around the bush and have ALWAYS called it as I see it... and this is just plain f*cked up!

Pat, again...no bullsh*t....don't leave...

Well this is a very sad development. Just had a chat with Pat and understand his decision.

Many excellent points made in the prior posts. For the 99.95% of good folks here and watching. Thanks.

For the 00.05% critic section two quotes:
"Treat others as you would like to be treated"
"What goes around comes around"

Creighton
 

 

Pat,

You need to come back! Who cares what "some" have to say on here! We know who the real friends are and those who collect machines for the "Hobby" not the "MONEY". I am not on much anymore, as I saw the site being bombared by those that just want to make a buck. Nothhing wrong with that, but don't be jerks about it. This is a great site, great people and most of all a great group of friends can be gained.

I have met so many new friends on this site. All are willing to help out. Through getting a logo, getting a machine, helping on info, etc. Dont' leave just for a few.......stay for the so many that appriciate your friendship and your additioni to the HOBBY! Your a great guy, don't let this keep you from this site. You are one of the founding fathers of this site!

Brian

 :drinking: :happydrinkers:

"Tis done. We have become a nation.

Benjamin Rush, on the ratification of the Constitution

"We" are a nation of friedns that collect great soda machines and others neat machines for the HOBBY!!!!

I was the 3rd person on here to respond to the initial post saying the 2nd response (to the initial post) made me laugh big time.  As I see it, the person (i.e. who I will call the "complainer" going forward) who wasn't happy with the nature of the post threatened Pat to remove it, or else.  Pat didn't remove it, as he felt was right, and the funny comments were all in good fun.  I think Pat acted professionally by not posting this person's name, but rather the context of the message in it's original form (including the threats to Pat).  

What really bothers me is why didn't this complainer didn't have the guts to respond to Pat's response on SMC and to clarify his point (i.e. stand up for what he believes in?). Instead this complainer chose to threaten Pat via email, and not respond in a public forum on SMC defending his position. It's one thing to disagree with a person, but it's another thing to threaten them.  This complainer chose to direct his insults to Pat's email after he didn't get his way on SMC.  I've seen instances on SMC where a person said something to someone else, but when called out on it, chimed back in on SMC to clarify his/her point.  This complainer stirred the pot, then hid choosing to email Pat instead.

I briefly spoke with Pat today and he hasn't been on the site today and won't be going on it anytime soon (his words).  I told him of the outpouring of support he has here, and how we all want him back.  Pat appreciated hearing that, but he is tired of the BS and the threats.  I'm sure I'll start getting threats now on my email from the complainer (after posting this), but I don't have a website or a business he can trash, and I don't hide from my email (BTW...It's bobcarlson123@gmail.com in case you feel like threatening someone else other than Pat).

Lighten up you crybaby!  And grow up while you're at it.

Bullies and Cowards....

AMEN, Eric!!!!

   Bob   You Took the Words Right out of My Mouth !!!!! 

  I also Have Been Talking To Pat .And He's Really Up set over This .

I thought the intial thread was hilarious as I had commented on it!!!! Go ahead email me if you would like if you offended!! I dont hide my e mail just click on my username.

A lot of time, words, and enery has gone to this post. I feel bad that a Senior member IMO one of the founding fathers of SMC has to step away from such a great site, friends, and the best online resource.


Pat when the time is right...I hope soon we can here from you on your newest projects, aquistions, restorations, etc.

It is a sad day when someone who freely gives so much of his time and knowledge feels he needs to take a break from something that he spent so much time helping to build.  I have never met Pat, so my thoughts may not mean much to him personally,  but I wanted to at least take the time to let him know that for every jackass who wants to use email and PMs to attack him, there are dozens, maybe hundreds of us out there who are tremendously grateful to him and the other keystone guys here on this site.  I have been a member here for almost three years and come online almost daily.  This site has become a part of my daily ritual.  Yet I still consider myself a newbie.  I take way more from this site than I give because I just don't know enough yet.  So I think it is only worthwhile to say "Pat, THANK YOU".  If he ever reads this I hope he knows I mean that sincerly and if I am ever fortunate enough to meet him, I will look forward to shaking his hand and telling him again in person.

Brian

Hey Pat,

You are a great resource and a great guy. Just to echo the rest, c'mon back!!

If 99.9% are in agreement about the %$#@#$% that threatened Pat why not kick him from the site and be done with it. (Your call Jim.)

Its a very sad day when someone of pats stature can be cowared to leave, I think of myself as one of those that has received untold help from pat while i was restoring my first machine, the individules that have besmerched him should leave and never come back,To those , you have ruined a very valuable site to those of us whom want to learn from experienced people that take the time to help us and never ask for anything in return. LEAVE NOW and take obama with you.

I don't get on here very often anymore but during my 35 years of restoring soda machines I've seen all kinds come and go and Pat is one of the very best. I agree that its a very sad day when someone of Pats stature can be criticized in that manner, that's a street corner and gutter mentality. I count you as a valued friend, Pat and hope you come back.

 :jawdrop: Wow, what the heck happened, you don't check the site for a few days and all hell breaks loose!
I've known Pat for a little while now and he's always been a generous and stand up guy. He has helped me out a few times with a soda machines both with parts and knowledge along with others on this site. It would be a shame to lose him.
This is a great site with great guys, I hope it can stay that way!

Hope to see you soon Pat!
Bob

Agreed Pat is a great guy hope to see you back soon.