[Milsurplus] Taxes

[J. Forster]

>
> Up until I retired and moved to Arizona, I had attended the MIT Flea
> since it began.

I've been to every single one. 100%

> In the early days there was a lot of Ham Gear available,
> but after the money-grubbers in Cambridge City Hall sank their hooks
> into the event, that seemed to change.

I think that's more a result of there being little demand at MIT for old
ham gear.

Cambridge's seller permits raised the seller prices, and the number of
individuals did go down. I, for one, stopped selling, partly because it
became a money looser. I never could rely on making even $20, so now I
just buy toys.

> Not sure what has gone on since 2007, but the Junk peddlers were the
> pre-eminent sellers. Lots of computer stuff, even Doll and Jewelry
> peddlers.

Still lots of computer stuff, including more Apple than you see elsewhere.
Some old mid-level audio gear. Occasionally some nice test gear or other
hi-tech toys. Not much consumer flea crap really. Not much Mil gear other
than the occasional ARC-5, etc. Quite a few parts vendors.

> I also got a laugh out of the presence of the Fire Department, but then
> everyone has to "wet their beak".

Yup.

> But, considering the number of Sellers and Flea entrants, the guys
running that Flea must be bringing in some serious coin.
>
> 73, Dick, W1KSZ

Not the guys themselves. AFAIK they get nothing, but the clubs (MIT and
Harvard) do well. The venue is free, but the MIT police do get a number of
paid details in addition to Cambridge's cut of every seller ticket.

Many years ago (1980s) the MIT police got something like $30 per hour for
details. It's likely much higher now.

Best,
-John

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