All this talk about the state of the hobby is really funny. It's the economy Duh! I know my discreationary income is down ...so like the rest of you I have less money to spend on chips. If I was in the position I was in 3 years ago, at these prices I would be an agressive buyer. That $100 I'm spending now is getting 3-4X what it got 3 years ago. I'm seeing a lot of inventory offered here for face value...a few years from now you'll be kicking yourself for passing on the opportunity. This hobby is healthy it's just reflecting the state of the world right now. When I first got into this hobby some 16+ years ago I could not believe how well I was treated by other collectors. People went out of their way to help and instantly made you feel like you knew them forever. The way I was treated is the way I treat other collectors. It's still a small world and you ALWAYS get what you give.
Rich Figarotta R-1593