Conference school::sports_memorabilia

    Matt,
    I have been to this show since it started.  Its a good little show,
    about 35 to 40 tables.  Same dealers every sunday, last weeks show did
    have a few new faces, so the promoter is changing some of the dealers.
    Starts at 9:00 to 3:00.  Plenty of bargins at the end of the show.  He 
    does a drawing at the 2:30 hour, for $50 spending spree.  I recommend
    it if you live close to the hotel, and there is plenty of free parking.

    which hotel is it? 
    
    aren't there a couple right there?
    
    thanks -dennis

    
    
    I ended up going to a card show a little closer to my house. The
    show was in dorchester mass at the florian hall. It was a good show
    I got some good buys on a few yaz cards but I still need a few more.
    I'll try the park west the next time they have it.
    
    
    matt-

	Gee Roy, I dunno if I can make it....





    :-)  Of course I'll be there!!  This show twice a year and the show
    at the Shriner's Aud (Wilmington) in November should be automatic
    for every collector from New England.

    But, the BIG question is,






    Is Tony going to be there????!!!!



	- Dan

    If the weather holds out, I thought I would make the trip up to Cow
    Hampshiere, where ever that is?  Lets see, I just picked up a 1969
    Mickey Mantle pin at the Marlboro show.  I'll sell it to Tony for $3.00
    if he shows up, and shows me his 52T MM card.  Hows that for
    temptation Tony??

    	Nope.  It was John "I have to reply to every note" St. Onge.
    
    					Tony 8^)

    I thought that i would pass along to everyone the annoucement of a show
    in Gardner, Ma.  
    		March 18                       V.F.W. POST 905
    		Show hours 10am-4pm            176 West Street
                Autograph guest:               Gardner, Ma. 
    	           Rico Petrocelli             
    		Admission Fee $2.00            tel# 508-632-5823
    		Autograph FREE OF CHARGE
    	           BETWEEN 1PM-4PM
    
    		40 tables available
    
    		

	... I'll be there Saturday !  Snack bar ... 9am.  Anybody wanna stop 
by at 9 and say hello, or if you see me walkin around, I'll be wearing a green 
"Jets" cap.  See you there !

					Tony

ps. Roy: You goin ???
    

>>    I'll be there.  It's up to Dan McAuliffe (my chaffeur for the day 8^)
>>    whether we'll (still) be there at 9:00 ... 
    
      Of course we'll still be there Roy!!  I don't want to stay 'til 
      the end of the show, but I'm sure we'll be there for at least an
      hour or two (just to walk around....)

      Anyways, this shows nothin' without Tony buying everyone sodas!!!

      - Dan

    	... wasn't Roy supposed to "buy" last time, and he didn't show
    up ???
    
    					Tony

	... Roy will be pushing he new weight-loss program on us.  He'll have a
table set up next to the snack bar.  He's got a video.  Its called "Sweatin for
Autographs".  Heres a couple of quotes from it ...

"... travel the globe like me, hunting down obsure Red Sox players autographs,
and loose weight !"

"... I was up all night drippin in sweat worrying about getting Tom Bolton's 
autograph, and I lost 10 pounds !"

	... not sold in stores ... send before midnight tomorrow ... 
	
					Tony 8^)
    

    	... so do I get a discount on your video ???
    
    					Tony 8^)

    So, guys, how was it? Who found what and for how much? I was hoping 
    the B.G. show would be in April so I could attend, but since I couldn't
    be there, I want to live vicariously through all of you.
    
    I want details!!
    
    John D.
    

    	Made a quick "deal" with Rick G., and "skimmed" over the top
    of each table lookin for a deal.  Picked up a couple of Phil Esposito
    cards, a 70-71 Bobby Hull for only $5, and a '53 Topps Whitey Ford
    for $8 (it spent the weekend in the vise 8^) !!!  Thats all I have
    to report.  Wait a minute .... some skinny guy was there sellin
    videos 8^) ...
    
    			Tony

    So it was you Roy, who bought the Leave it to Beaver Set.  I saw it,
    moved on, and came back to buy if for my kid, and it was GONE!  I'll
    give you $8.00 for it, since you payed only $5.95.  I had a great time
    at the show.  I had the great opportunity to meet you guys, and buy a 
    few things from you (john O. and Tony D) and I also picked up a few 
    things at the show.  A MM 1969 decal insert, MM DR puzzle, a MM the
    MICK book, a MM 1969 story book of the man, and the set of GOONIE
    cards for my 6 year old.  He was so happy!!  The thing I picked up
    for $2 bucks was the first issue Vol. 1 Issue 1 of BAseball CArd
    Magazine, and its funny to look through that and see the old prices,
    and what cards they weree recommending then, they were right on!!
    The sets were selling at about the same price as now, but the valuable
    cards were dirt cheap.  Its a prize to look through .

    Re: -.1

    Just curious what the going rate of a Donruss Mickey Mantle puzzle
    is.....

    - Dan

    I picked up the MM DR puzzle for $3.50, without hassling him down,
    even though, I think he would have taken $3.00, he seemed like a nice
    guy.  I've seen the Carl Y and Hank A going for $15 to $18 at shows,
    so you know the MM has to go for at least that.  Now that I think 
    about it, I should have bought 10 of them.  The disappointing thing
    was the guy next to him was selling Sportflics, the hall of fame
    players for .50, and some guy came in and bought all the MM cards. 
    That was disappointing since they are hard to find where the guy is
    breaking up sets, and selling individual cards in that early set of
    SF.  That was a great show, can't wait till next year.  Tony, could
    you put a 52T BB set together for me, and I'll meet you up there
    next year for the BIG BUY !  That Football set is great, I think my
    dad is going to work to up grade it to EX+ w/ a check list.  I'm
    still waiting for a reply to the offer on the Leave it to Beaver CArds.
    I have to rush home to watch them on cable at 5:30, the cards would be
    nice to have.  Roy, how much do you want for the set??

    I've been looking for a year, and couldn't find the MM DR puzzle
    anywhere.  It just goes to show you, put the stuff on the table, and 
    who knows, some idiot like me might come along and buy it.  But I
    really did see the Yaz and Hank A. going for around $15 at the Natick
    Hilton show.  
    
    Any big shows coming up over the next couple of weeks??  I heard about
    some show in Bean town, anybody know about that one??
    

    Went to Mike Stanton's "Powderkeg" show in Portsmouth on St. Patrick's
    Day.  Crowd was sparse and there were more than a couple of empty
    tables.  What amazed me, though, was that the football, hockey, and
    basketball cards were MUCH more visble than baseball cards, probably as
    much as a 70-30 ratio.  Is this just the time of the year combined with
    the lockout?  Or has the hobby really changed so remarkably in a matter
    of months.  In December, I could have bought the '81 Topps football set
    from an expensive dealer in Portsmouth for $40.  Now they want 5 times
    that for Montana alone. Sheesh. The bright side of this may be that
    prices on older baseball cards may come down to something sane, there
    being only a finite number of dollars to be spent.

    A big show is slated for Boston on March 31, and April 1; I understand 
    Pete Rose and Whitey Ford will be signing autographs.  Over 200 tables
    will be there, so it looks like a good one.  Its at the Clark Gym, on
    the Harbor Campus of U Mass.  Does anyone know how to get there, and is
    there any parking, or do you have to park in the street??  Is anyone 
    thinking of going to this one??

    Roy, definitely bring that set.  I'm mad at myself everytime you remind
    me of it.  I don't know Boston at all.  In all my years living in
    Mass., I've never driven into Boston and driven out of Boston the same
    way.  And the oneway signs really bother me.  There all twisted each 
    different way, I always go down the wrong way.  I'm lucky I'm still
    alive.  If anyone gets good directions, let me know. Thank you.

Rose: $20 for an autograph, $30 for a ball, $40 for a bat....
Ford : $20 for an autograph, $30 for a ball, no mention of bat 
signing...

What a bargain.

daryll

    I'll stick with the guys in the Hall also, before I shell out money
    for Canstinko, or any of these other "coke" heads that play today. 
    Some of these guys really lead great lives, you know, great roll models
    for the young kids, carrying guns and speeding with their fancy cars.
    Makes you want to go out and lay that $40 bucks down for an autograph.
    Pete Rose, that arrogant S.O.B., I wouldn't give him the time of day, I
    would, but I'd charge him $25 bucks, and then laugh in his face.  I'm
    sure he'd poke me in the face just as fast too, he's so damn cocky!!
    I could see him sliding into third base with his mouth wide open, to catch
    third base between his teeth, just to prove to the other team he is
    "mr. pete rose", thats right, charlie hustle.  Sorry folks, I have no
    respect for a man who doesn't have the respect for the "Game", and 
    the game gave this man everything he has today.  Without it, he is a 
    big zero, and he bet on games when thats the biggest nono in baseball.
    To hell with him.  Hope Whitey shows him up, and has the longer of the 
    to lines at the show.  That has to eat him up to have a pitcher show
    the allmighty up!!

    RE -1
    
    Pete Rose should be cocky. If you want to stick with the guys in the
    Hall take a look at the lifetime leaders boards that are posted there
    and look for his name. It should be listed on just about every offensive 
    category. He will be there soon too because he is one of the greatest
    ever. There are plenty of former player in the Hall that did a lot 
    worse then Rose. They just didn't get all the publicity like there is
    for players now a days. Look at Ty Cobb. He killed a person. Look at
    Babe Ruth, he wasn't exactly a saint. Even Willee Stargell was elected
    just recently and he was a "coke" head. The only exception of couse is
    Joe Jackson but I think he should be elected.
    
           I think Rose has plenty of respect for the "Game". He just
    screwed up. The game may have given him a lot but he also gave the 
    game plenty in return like all those hits, his inspirational play,
    and his dedication to the game. 
    
           I don't think the "allmighty" will really care if Whitey has a 
    longer line then him. He just does it to get some easy cash for his
    new sport that he is quickly mastering -------> Golf. See last weeks
    sporting news for more details about Pete Rose the Golfer. He just 
    took up the sport less then a year ago and he's already shooting in
    the low 40's.  What an athlete!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    
    
    
    
    							Wally
    

    RE .41
    
    "coke" heads... Where do you get off calling Canseco and 'other stars
    of today' coke heads?
    
    It's too bad all players are not the 'angels' of yesteryear... I mean,
    not EVEN ONE former great used alcohol (extensively), wild women, etc.
    
    I think YOU should do some reading about some of the greats of years
    past, I think you will change your opinion... 
    
    Smitty
    

    O.K., sorry, I stereo-typed the "modern ballplayer".  Tell me one
    thing, are you two guys from Philly, the city of brotherly love, or
    Cinncy, the city that produced the "KID"??  Pete Rose is playing golf
    because he can't do anything else pal!!  They do more betting on the 
    golf course than at the track, so I don't think Mr. Pete is curred yet.
    
    Oh, by the way, at the BIG Show in Boston yesterday, Mr. Pete had NO
    line waiting for HIS autogragh.  That tells me two things, his
    popularity is at a all time LOW or people are sick of paying these
    over priced ballplayers $40 bucks to get an autogragh shoved up their
    A_s!!  One lady asked the almighty to sign Pete Rose, "Charlie Hussle",
    and the man said , NO!  He should have signed it the "THE HUSSLER".
    
    Sorry, but I don't think Mr. Pete will be elected to the HOF for quite
    a while, mean time let him take up golf, that has to be a very
    frustrating experience.  Wonder if he runs from green to green??

    Geez, when are Dinosaurs Attack cards going to get hot?
    
    Getting back to card shows, I wanted to share my experience at the
    Salem NH Kof C show from the dealer's perspective.  I was sharing an
    8-foot table with a couple of guys selling inventory software, so my
    space was limited.  Basically, all I had out there was some waxpacks,
    fifty-odd star cards under plexiglass, and a looseleaf binder with
    maybe 20 pages of older cards.  Up comes customer type 26B, the little
    old man in a Red Sox cap and windbreaker.  He grunted when I said hello
    then proceeded to read the backs of every card in the notebook,
    effectively preventing anyone else from seeing what I had to offer.
    When he finally had his fill at my "free library," he shuffled off
    without a word.  This is typical.  I mean, I like to go and browse at
    shows, but I try to have a little consideration for people who set up
    tables and would like to sell enough stuff to cover the rental fee.
    Let's face it, a lot of us collectors are rude, inconsiderate pukes,
    and we probably deserve the kind of dealers we run into! Comments?
    
    On the bright side, I sold those two packs of '86 Fleer stickers that I
    thought I'd be buried with.

    My attitude with dealers is to reflect back what they're giving me. If
    they're a$$holes, I can play that game. If they want to chat baseball
    and make me feel like they want to get to know me and what my needs may
    be, then we're *buddies*. I won't tolerate a gouge, and if I think
    someone's trying to cheat me, I'll walk on. I try not to tie up space
    at the front of tables, but I'm looking for specific cards, and I'll
    browse a binder to find just one. If a dealer doesn't want people
    looking through binders, he souldn't put binders on the table.
    
    My biggest complaint is the dealers attitude. It seems more and more to
    be a real hardline approach. For example, they'll mark a $1.00 card for
    $3.00 and act astonished when you don't buy it. I really don't think
    most of these guys have any concept of how to run a business (inventory
    turnover, profit margin, customer service, etc.). All they *think* they
    know is supply and demand. "hey pal, this card is hard to find". Well,
    you know what? So is my money. I work hard for it and I don't intend to
    give it away to any old jerk that asks. I expect value for my dollar,
    and if the dealer is charging a premium, I expect a premium card, not a
    dog-eared piece of crap. I didn't used to be real picky about
    condition, but lately I've been real hard nosed about it. Why? dealer
    attitude. They get pissy when you ask for a dollar or two discount, so
    I get pissy about condition. Actually, They're helping me. I spend less
    money because less cards satisfy me, and when I do buy I get a nice
    specimen. 
    
    So it has come full circle. It was great fun in past years to go to shows
    wondering what gem you'd find for your collection. Maybe talk a little
    baseball or shoot the breeze with a dealer or two. now I don't go to
    too many shows anymore. Or if I do go, it's to quickly run through
    looking for a bargain. Or perhaps go from table to table waiting for
    some dealer to mouth off so I can tweak him with a clear concience.
    Shows just aren't as much fun as they used to be, and I'm coming home
    with less and less. All in all, I'd rather deal mail order. They send
    you a card, and if you don't like it you can send it back. No bullsh!t,
    no hassle.
    
    Well, time to climb down and give someone else a chance to reply.
    
    John D. 
    
    

	Well, its about time you guys saw things the right (my) way 8^) !  I
think they should put all these "SLIME" dealers, Mr. Feenamint (HAAAAAAAA !),
and Pete Rose on the next space shuttle into space (I'll supply the "o" rings
8^).  As far these dealers at shows go, ya can't win.  A cluttered/unorganized
table is a waste of time.  Ya spend a half an hour on your feet 'cause ya think 
your gonna get a deal 'cause the tables so messy ... and your backs killin ya.  
Then ya find something and the "fat slob" (thanks Roy 8^) wants double book !  
Then you go to an extremely organized/neat table of "stuff", and the jerk wants
more $$$ !  I've had it.  Buying through the mail is definitely the way to go.
I like gettin stuff by mail too.  Theres little or no bullshit.  I only had a 
problem once in 9 years of buyin by mail.  It was resolved quickly.  I know of
a couple of card shops in my area that are "ok" too.  I still like buying by
mail though.  I used to go to every show around, every Sunday.  But, I find it 
hard to get excited about 'em now.  Too crowded, pushin, shovin, etc.  The only
show I've attended in the last year has been the one in Nashua.  I go there more
to see you guys then I do to buy stuff.  There is more to the hobby than making
a profitable business transaction ya know ?  Just seein the new "good for the
economy" size Roy was worth the trip 8^) (... but is he bio-degradable ???).

					Tony

ps. I wouldn't be caught dead in a Red "Snots" cap.  Slap Rice in the face,
    let Esasky get away, re-sign Buckner (agrrr) ?  They're "oh so" pitiful.   
    

    Thanks for your responses gentlemen. I really don't disagree with
    anything you said, but I should clarify that I don't mind people
    browsing through a notebook, or even carefully examining many cards
    that they ultimately don't buy. That's fine. But the guy I'm talking
    about was like doing research for a term paper or something, READING
    every word. I expected him to start taking notes.
    
    Another peeve: you put a $2 card out at $1.50 and some yahoo comes up
    and says "you take 50 cents for this?"  Right, buddy. Why don't I just
    turn my paycheck over to you.  Maybe I can come over and shovel your
    driveway for you, too! ARRGGHHHHHHH.

    I, like Rick, have been on both sides of the table, as a dealer and as
    a collector.  I set up a table at a few shows per year to sell off
    excess 'stuff' (at least my wife thinks it's excess).  I also buy and
    sell via mail order.  I find most of the dealers to be fairly
    respectable and dependable.
    
    I have come across many dealers I would not buy from regardless of what
    they have.  They are like Tony says 'Slime'.  I have also come across
    some collectors who are 'Slime'.  I guess slime can have many
    definitions. 
    
    There are several types of both collector and dealer.  The one's that
    annoy me is the collector who doesn't give anyone else an opportunity to
    get close to the table.  You know the one-- he puts his coke on any
    open binder (as long as it's not his), spreads his cards out on the
    display case (his cards are usually very poor condition) and complains
    that you won't trade even up his ratty Don Mattingly rookie for your
    NRMT '67 Yaz.
    
    I was at a show recently as a collector.  I needed a couple cards  to
    complete a set.  The cards were about 0.25 each and should have totaled
    around $1.00.  They were all minor stars.   One dealer had the cards
    marked at $1.00 each.  When I talked to him about price, he just got
    real huffy and said his prices were his prices and if I didn't like
    them to shop elsewhere.  This was the first time I'd seen him at a
    show.  I don't think he's new since he has a store in town.  These are
    the dealers that really piss me off.  They are the theives that are
    ruining and running the hobby.  
    
    I think there are people on either side of the table trying to make the
    best deal they can, but some of them get carried away.
    
    Enough ramblings
    
    joe

    Some dealers' tables are organized in a logical manner, while others
    find logic that only they can understand.  For example, I have seen
    several dealers that have all their cards in notebooks/binders that are
    very large.  While that might be efficient for them to carry or
    control, it limits the number of customers that can scan the books.
    But that's nothing compared to the dealers that organize their books by
    price.  They will have a $.05 book, a $.10 book, a $.25 book, etc.  I
    can only guess that the dealer figures his perspective customers
    must know which book to look in to find the cards they seek.  Since I
    don't know how much the dealer wants to charge for the card before I
    locate it, I can never guess which book to look in.  Talk about a time
    waster.  
    
    Yet other dealers will sort their books alphabetically.  Good,
    so far.  But then they will have separate books for their "star" and
    "semi-star" cards.  Whoops.  "Star" is sorta OK, but you wanna debate
    who qualifies as a "semi-star".  To some dealers, "semi-star" is a card
    that he can get above Beckett prices for.  Another time waster.  
    
    Still, other dealers have different approaches.  How about the guy who
    basically doesn't trust the public (I won't debate whether the feeling
    is justifiable) so everything is locked up.  No problem, except when he
    is working his table alone and there are 4-5 customers, each trying to
    scan thru cards.  He tends to hold everybody up while focusing in on 1
    or 2 customers he considers as most likely to buy.  Other potential
    buyers are just expected to wait their turn.  Needless to say,
    impatience can cause problems for both parties.  If a dealer wants
    tight control, staff accordingly.
    
    While I'm on a roll, here's another example of a problem waiting to
    happen.  Some dealers will have many, many cards to display.  Fine,
    except some of these guys are trying to hold down costs and rent the
    minimum space possible to display their wares.  The bottom line is that
    there is no space to look thru books, or even to set something down,
    like other stuff you've bought at the show, a Beckett, or even your own
    personal checklists.  What often happens then is the next dealer's
    table will suddenly accumulate a bunch of people and/or their personal
    possessions, but not customers for his goods.  That has to be
    irritating.
    								phil

    There will be an auction, #11 at the Concord Elks Lodge , 221 Baker Ave
    in West Concord, right off Rt. 2. On Thursday nite, June 28, 1990.
    No admission fee, door prizes, no buyers premiums, free parking, and 
    a very relaxed atmosphere.  Its usually a pretty good time and worth going
    if you have never been to an auction.  A listing of Lots is available, 
    which describes condition and # of the card.  They will have BB to Hockey, 
    Tobacco CArds, WS programs, etc.  IF ANYONE NEEDS A LISTING of ARTICLES
    FOR SALE, please send me a mail message, AKOV12::GASPARONI, and I will 
    mail you out a copy of the actual lising.
    
    Also, on June 30th at Tulley Buick Pontiac GMC in Nashua, Ted Williams
    will be signing autographs, FOR FREE!  Thats right zippo!!  There is a
    $1.00 donation to the Jimmey Fund, but thats it.  Time is from 9 to 11
    am.

    
    
    	Can anyone tell me if there is a baseball card show in the Laconia,
    	New Hampshire area this weekend?  I know that Beckett's would
    	probably list it, but I don't have a June issue.  Thanks.
    
    						Paul
    

The Lawrence Eagle Trib reported yesterday that next Tuesday, 
Carlos Quintana, Luis Rivera, Tony Pena, Junior Felix, Tony 
Fernandez and 2 other Blue Jays will be signing for free at the 
Lawrence Public Library at noon(?). They didn't list any other 
details...

daryll

    There was a big show in San Jose last weekend. Joe Dimaggio was one of
    the two heavyweight signers; I don't remember who the other was. It
    could of been Mickey Mantle, but I wasn't there so I'm not sure.
    Anyway, Addmission was $5.00 at the door, and $30.00 for the autograph.
    
    Here's the interesting part: They weren't allowed to sign balls (show
    promoters rules) so as not to compete with dealers selling
    pre-autographed balls at $65.00 and up apiece.
    
    John D.
    

    This really doesn't belong here, but, I don't know where to stick it,
    so here goes.  What do you think of auctions??  I went to one two weeks
    ago in Concord, and I'll have to say there were some real buys!!  Most
    of the people had kids, and there didn't appear to be any real dealers
    bidding up the prices, and stuff was going for dirt cheap!  For an 
    example, a Johnny Bench Rookie card, EX MT, $125.00.  Pete Rose cards,
    going for $10.  4 old tobacco cards, GD++ went for $17.50 apiece.  Wade
    Boggs figurene, $4.  1987 DR Highlites, went for $6.  Eight men out set
    went for $10, I bought that.  MM 1968T EX+ $60. 1970T Football OJ
    Rookie went for $24  1963T Willie McCovey EX+ $9  1970Tom Seaver EX+
    $11.  Thats just a few of the bargins.  Great prices, very relaxed
    atmosphere.  Are all auctions this good??
    

    Does anyone know of any card shows in the Atlanta region over the next
    month?   I'm here for training and would like to pick up some cards
    that I'm missing.
    
    Glenn

    Hey Glenn, are you at the ALF facility? If so, give me a call. DTN
    343-1256.
    
    Tom Rocca

    
      Anybody going to the show in Sturbridge Mass. this weekend or could 
    provide directions from the Mass Pike?
    
      Thanks in advance, 
    
                  Bill

I attended the National Sports Collectors Convention which was held in Arlington
Texas this past weekend (jul5-8).  I'll include my comments, impressions of the 
show.

This is the first time I have been to a National.  They had advance ticket sales
for a while before the show however, being the way I am I didn't get one.  Big 
mistake...  I waited 1 hour in the searing Texas heat (~98o) to get the 
priveledge of buying a ticket.  Once I got inside, I had difficulty finding the 
autograph section.  I was looking for an auto of "The Duke".  He was my boyhood
hero.  I finally found the line to buy the tickets.  I thought the $10.00 price 
to be pretty reasonable considering they were charging $25 for Mays and $27 for
Leo "the Lip".

I bought my ticket and was directed to another line.  This was about 1 hour 
long (at least it was indoors).  While I was waiting for my autograph I had an
opportunity to observe the signers.  Leo had been replaced by Lou Brock.  Mays
appeared to be a signing machine.  He never looked up.  He never spoke unless it
was to say 'next'.  He face was set in a scowl.  Duke seemed to have a comment 
for everybody who spoke to him.  He was enjoyable.  The show sponsors did not 
let you linger long.  Lou Brock, on the other hand, was by far the most 
personable.  He took time to speak with everybody, shake their hand, and make 
comments about collecting.  He was able to do this because his line was a lot
shorter however, he probably would have been that way regardless.

I have my autograph firmly in hand and decided to venture onto the convention
floor.  Geez, what a crowd.  The aisles were about 6 feet wide and dealer tables
were stuffed everywhere.  It was virtually impossible to get to a table.  
Customers were lined up 2 and 3 deep at each table.  The traffic flow just 
pushed you along if you weren't at a table.  As you may have guessed I didn't
get close to many tables.  I did manage to make a good deal on some EX+ 55T high
number commons I needed but that was all.  I'm not much for crowds, so I got 
disgusted and booked it home.  I didn't go back Sunday.

I think the people who put on the show underestamited the attendance when they 
were planning.  The place they contracted had a small (500-600) capacity, poor
parking and no inside space for crowd control.  The staff was rude.  
(Please note: not all Texans are rude.)  I'm sure the promoters made a bundle.
Judging from the crowd I'd have to say the dealers did well also.  I know I did
well on my 55's but was disappointed in not really getting a chance to browse 
the tables.

Would I recommend attending a National?

Yes and no.  If you like crowds and don't mind being shoved or waiting in lines
then I suggest go for it.  But get there early in the morning.  Buy your tickets
in advance (you get right in).  Bring lots of $$$ and have fun.  

joe

    re:.72
    
    I did get to pick up some of the freebees.  I couldn't/didn't want to
    fight the crowds around some of the football displays like Pro-set.  I
    picked up a few Collect-a-books and gave them to my son.  The crowds
    were unreal.  Unless you're built like Nate Newton you had to move with
    the traffic or get run over.  Over all it was a good show for the
    dealers and promoter.  I'm sure the public did ok as well.  I don't
    care much for the show promoter as a business person.  I've been to her
    shop and she's a thief.  Example: 25cent Cal Ripken card for $1.00. 
    She also thinks she runs the card  hobby in Dallas/Fort Worth.  Enough
    for personal feelings/opinions.  Like I said earlier, my main objective
    was to get a Duke Snider autograph and I accomplished that.  He doesn't
    make many appearances here.
    
    joe

    
      I know that the BG show is this weekend, but there is also one 
    in Sturbridge this weekend. My son is begging me to take him for
    autographs. My questions: Anyone else going? Where could I pick up
    a good item to be autographed and what would be good to use I.E.
    a good theme plaque or something besides an actual photo of the
    individual. I am not into baseballs or bats either. Any
    recommendations? I am new to this. This will be my first.

Who's signing in Sturbridge?

Details?

thanks
daryll

    
     Roy,
      Could you tell me again how much to expect to pay for the 500hr
    plaque like you have. I thought that was very nice, but had no
    idea of where to get one. The theme idea I stole from you. I don't 
    have nice area to display large items but, I have a lot of walls.
    
      Thanks for taking time to reply. I am sure that others are going
    to appreciate your advice as well. Hope to see you Sunday also.
    

    You guys got it all wrong. The REALLY big show isn't over there, it's
    over here in San Francisco. 3 days, 1000 tables, and 3 columns of
    signing players (past and present). Garvey, Brock, Canseco, Mays, and
    about 20 others. Get your super-saver tickets and get moving. Hey, if
    you show up, I'll buy the coffee and donuts! And the first two to show
    up get a place to stay for the weekend. 8^)
    
    John D.

    
    RE:78
    
       	Which Ron Lewis print do you consider to be toilet paper? 8^)
    
    RE:79
    
    	Who gave you the good advice?  Not the moderator?  I have it on
    	good authority that Bob Gibson considers him to be a pain-in--#$%
    
    	8^)
    
    

    Taken from 'USA Today'

    BASEBALL TRADES IN CARDS AT SHOW.

	A record 800 dealers from 38 states and Canada, as well as more than 
    50,000 collectors, are expected to descend upon San Francisco this weekend
    for the All-American Baseball Card Convention.
	The four-day event, which begins Friday and runs through Monday, will 
    take place at the downtown Concourse Exhibition Center and Fashion Center.
	Among the rare items expected to be on display - some also will be for
    sale - are the 1910 tobacco cards of Honus Wagner (worth more than $100,000)
    and Eddie Plank($25,000) and the 1933 Goudy gum card of Nap Lajoie($30,000).

    ...Kareem draws high price...

	More the 40 sports celebrities are expected to sign autographs at the
    All-American Baseball Card Convention in San Francisco, including former 
    Lakers center Kareem Abdul-Jabber, who will command top price for his
    signature: $24.
	Other stars expected, and the prices for their autographs:

	    .Jose Canseco	$22
	    .Willie Mays	$20
	    .Ricky henderson	$19
	    .Joe Morgan		$ 9
	    .Gordie Howe	$ 9
	    .Bart Starr		$ 9
	    Don Larson		$ 5

    Admission is $6 daily or $19 for a four-day pass.

    Well, I went to the S.F. show over the weekend. It was *BIG*. We were
    there from 10:30 to 6:30 without a lunch break, and still didn't see it
    all! Picked up some nice cards, saw several "questionable" deals, and
    spent about $140.00. All in all, it was worthwhile and I furthered my
    collection quite a bit.
    
    Just about anything you can name was there. Baseball cards, of course,
    as well as football, basketball, hockey, and non-sports cards of every
    description. Bats and balls, pennants, jerseys, jackets, programs,
    autographed *everything*, pictures, supplies, and services.
    
    There were also a few *unsusual* items to be had. One enterprizing young
    lady had a novel idea. She had a set called "the benchwarmer", a
    multi-card set featuring herself in various provacative poses in and
    around baseball dugouts and fields. Last I saw they were selling like
    hotcakes, and she was getting cramps autographing them (for a nomial
    charge). Smart woman, that. Also available at one dealers' table were
    1991 Traci Lords calendars; nice stuff, and only $8.95. I passed. 
    
    And now for the "These guys are too f@cking much" award. I had thought
    I'd seen everything when last year at the same show dealers were
    offering Joes Canseco's jockstrap as well as his soiled sweatsocks. I
    was wrong, *VERY* wrong. I hadn't seen it all, afterall. This was a
    real treat when I found it, and I laughed myself sick over it. This
    special suprize was in three parts. Part #1:
    
    A piece of cardboard a couple of inches square, with a toenail clipping
    glued to the center. The description was "Bo Jackson's toenail, found
    in his hotel room." Affixed to the corner was a $50.00 price tag.
    
    Suprize #2:
    
    Another piece of cardboard, similar to the first, and this one had
    mounted on it a *well chewed* piece of gum. This piece of art was
    entitled "Bo Jackson's chewing gum". Your's for a mere $38.00
    
    Suprize #3 (Drum roll please, you guy's are gonna *love* this):
    
    A Bo Jackson autographed condom. I swear I'm not making this up. It was
    a ordinary blue-wrap trojan, autographed on the package, and the tip of
    the thing was sticking out of the top. I guess the dealer wanted to
    make sure that you were guarranteed a real condom. What integrity! This
    one of a kind (?) item was a steal at $120.00. It did't appear used,
    but I didn't inspect it closely enough to guarantee it. My only regret
    was I didn't get this dealer's business card, It may have been a
    worthwhile collectable in itself. Oh, well.
    
    So, how was the BG show? 
    
    John D. (still chuckling!)

    John, I've been looking for a Bo-nail that's actually been chewed off
    by Bo, rather than clipped. Which kind did you see at the show? Any
    blood, sweat, tears, hair?  Why don't they just cut these guys up and
    sell the pieces?  Next they'll be selling their precious bodily fluids.

    John, do you know which toes the remnants were from.
    
    I need the little left toe-nail.
    
                    -pj-

    DID ANYONE get a chance to go to the Big Mickey Mantle Show down in
    Rhode Island on 9/22 and 9/23 this past weekend??  How was the show,
    and was there a lot of good stuff, bargins, and how did Mantle look?? 
    I did not get a chance to go, lack of $$$, and work around the house.
    How were the crowds?  Thanks for your responses.  

     Does anyone know of any card shows this weekend (Oct. 5-7)
around the Boston/Worcester area???

     Any info would be appreciated...


MD

    I know there's generally one in Waltham the first Saturday of the
    month at the Best Western...

    
    Holiday Inn
    Leominster, Mass
    Location   Rt.2 & Rt.12 Overpass
    $1.00 admin/  9-3	
    This coming Saturday, I beleive (calender at home, JB- got your
    calender handy ??)
    
    Generally a small show, mixed bag of people from sensible to senseless.
    (as with all shows...)
    
    	-JR
    

    Does anyone know if you can pick up 93S off Rt. 495, or is that exit
    closed off??  If it is, is there anyway to get on Rt 93S from Rt 495,
    inorder to get to the Shriners Show.  I know there is construction
    around that cloverleaf and don't want to have to travel via Rt 128
    if possible.  Thanks.
    
    	Rick

    Thanks very much for the reply.  I'm really looking forward to this 
    show.  Hope its as good as last years?  Last year there was some good
    quality stuff, and the dealers were "top" notch all the way.  They must
    only let in the top guys around the country, because they had dealers
    coming from all over and they really did some dealing with you, unlike
    your local dealers, who appear to be more on the collector side of
    things, and know next week, if they don't get that price, there stuff
    will be sitting out there again, same old price, same old stuff.  You
    really get to see variety at these big shows, and some of the stuff is
    better than whats sitting in Cooperstown, its really fun to just walk
    around and see some of this old quality memorabilia.  I want to go to
    the next "National Show".  Anyone know when its going to be and where?

    John, what time on Sunday are you planning on being at the show.  I
    will be there first thing on Sunday, at 10:00am.  Let me know where 
    you want to meet.  I want to go over and meet the "home town hero" and 
    see his stuff.
    
    	Rick

    I'll be looking for you and Roy.  Roy, did you get those P-S new cards
    yet, and are you getting Warren S. autograph on his??  I'm still
    waiting for mine to show up.  I requested 07,or 77,or 777,or 7777 . 
    Think P-S fills requests??  I'll probably get 06 , 66, 666, 6666.
    They are great looking cards, they sent me a broucher on the new set
    and they look like real unique designs.  Bet Warren S. would be
    interested in seeing his new cards at the show.  He was on HSN the
    other nite, and he talks like he's a regular guy, he might even do some
    personnalizing if asked too.  Looking forward to seeing you guys at the 
    show on Sunday.  Can't wait to get my free Team Set from "Home Town
    Hero". (Only kidding).  Hope he brings some of his old stuff to sell??

    Since that is the start of my last week of training out here before I
    have to go back to the Coast, I'm gonna make to the show one of the
    days this weekend. Too bad about the predicted weather. I sure hope
    that they are wrong. But, I do have my per diem to spend.
    
    I'll be the guy without the strange accent, saying 'yo Dude'.
    
    See you there.
    
    
    
                                                -pj-

    
      Could be that some dealers have overstocked and are afraid of cash
    flow problems in a recessive economy. $7 for Topps traded & $8 for
    Fleer traded are good prices. Good thing I stayed home. Did you see
    any Score traded yet? 

    Thanks to everyone who stopped by to say hello.  I had over 35 Dec
    Employees stop at the table.  Most of them were shrewed enough to pass
    on my offer of a free Patriots Team Set.  The prices at the show were 
    generally low-the wax kings were in a price war the hobbist/collector
    really made out at this show.  It looks like 5000 people attended
    and were ready to spend some cash.  There were some beautiful
    pieces.
    
    Thanks again - I enjoyed meeting all of you.
    
    PS John Cobb's (Dec employee) son won one of the $ 250 shopping sprees
       He looked like he was 12 or 13 years old and he was obviously
    thrilled.  He also passed up the Pat's team sets ( I offered him 
    275 for the $250. 

    I too enjoyed the show very much, and unlike the other 35 DECies, I
    took you up on your offer and grabbed the Pats cards for my son, who
    really enjoyed getting them.  Thanks alot Mike!!  Also my Dad was
    thrilled with his Tom Seaver card, he admired that beauty all the way 
    home, and also thought he got a good deal besides, so he was happy.
    I picked up some nice Mickey Mantle things and sport Mags and I was
    very happy too, so it was a very sucessful and enjoyable day.  I can't
    wait until next year.  Thanks again.  All most forgot, the Celtics
    Team set was a good deal at $1 too!

    There is going to be a card show at Notre Dame high school 171 South
    St. Fitchburg, Ma. on Dec.1,1990 from 9am to 4pm.
    there looking for dealers to set up there planing to have 60 tables
    at 25$ per table. admission is 4$ with hourly door prizes. now the
    good news! Mo Vaughn the top RedSox prospect will be signing free
    with the admission and 5$ for additional autographs. if interested
    in setting up call Bill Gilman at 508-343-7635

    Does anyone know about the Card Show at the Framingham St. College this
    weekend??  Need time and what day, Sat. or Sun. 
    Thanks.

    From SCD:
    
    Sunday, Dec 16, 
    	Framingham Baseball Card Show
    		Where:  Framingham State College,
    			Forum Room College Center,
    			State St, Framingham.
    		Admission:  $1
    		Time:	    10am - 4pm
    		Tables:	    40 (8 ft)
    
    Hope this helps,
    Dan
    

     Does anyone have the dates of any upcoming shows in the Central Mass area?
    
     Thanks in advance
    
     Rick

    There will be the "BIG" Sports Collectibles Show in Cranston, R.I. on 
    Saturday, January 26, form 9:00am to 5:00pm.  Its the day before the 
    Super Bowl.  Yes, people have been asking me, "Mr. Mint" will be there
    with his famous brief case, and will be buying sets, so all you people
    who have "MINT" sets, mint only please, bring them with you and Mr.
    Mint will buy them up.  Please don't expect Becketts top price, or low
    price, or for that matter, any published price.  Mr. Mint will purchase
    at prices that are out of site!!  He only has $100 dollar bills, so 
    bring lots of change.  This will be a great, great, show, over 100
    tables of great stuff from all over the country.  Dont miss it!!!!!!!!

	Sounds like its going to be a big show... Whats the story
	about 'Mr. Mint'? This is the first I hear of him... I don't
	go to to many shows, but, will be at one of the largest shows
	in the country at that time. I'll be in Tampa for 'Super Bowl
	Card Show II'... 8^)   After the show I'll be attending Super
	Bowl XXV, to see the 49'ers take there third straight title. 
	And I can say I saw all three wins in person.. 8^)

	This should be a wild card show... Some say it could be bigger
	then the Super Bowl itself! (Hard to beleive).

	Mike

    show at the lowell hilton this saturday (1/12) from 9-4
    
    admission is $3, bob stanley and dennis eckersly are supposed to
    be there.
    
    should be a pretty decent show; there's an add for it in the latest
    beckets baseball.

    Mr. Mint, you mean you never heard of him??  He has probably done more
    for the hobby than any single person, except maybe for our beloved,
    read only moderator, who only reads, and will not write in this file,
    which has become sort of boring without his fine, knowledgable, and
    dedicated contributions which he has made over the years.
    
    Mr. Mint is probably the most knowledgable expert in the card and
    sports memorabilia business in the world.  The guy buys and sells over
    $17M worth of cards over a 11 year span.  He puts HSN to shame.  He
    buys only Mint, or close to it, and sells for Mint + prices.  There are
    some people who think not to kindly of this fine man, but he has put
    the card collecting hobby on the map, and everyone must give credit
    where credit is due.
    

    
    re. 5
    
    Where are my boots when I need them?
    
    I know he can sell you a Rolex if you need one.
    Is this a ploy to get our moderator back into writing?  unless of
    course
    he has just died from laughing
    
    					Jeff
    

    A guys got to make a living doing something, why not buying and selling
    bubble gum cards?  Come on, did you ever think the hobby would be as
    fruitful if it wasn't for Mr Mint and all his Mint Finds of '52 Topps
    Mickey Mantles?  Or his reputation of carrying around a brief case full
    of $100 bills, with his famous picture of himself wearing his two-tone
    Rolex watch.  This is what dreams are made of.  This is what every
    little investor wants to become, a "mr. Mint".  Not a breathe mint, but
    a Mr. Mint!

    Mr. Mint has said that autographs will be the next big thing in sports
    collecting.  So this is why he is getting in it big time.  It appears
    that the big finds are done with for the time being, as I have not
    heard of any of late, like the boxes of 1952 Topps unopened found in
    some basement in Tennessee.  The Mint Man will be at the Cranston show,
    which is worth the price of admission alone, so don't miss it.  He
    likes you to go and talk with him, he''s  just a super guy and has to
    be the most knowledgable man in the business.  Watch the man in action,
    bring all those sets of cards you want to dispose of, and watch the man
    pull all those $100 bills out of his famous brief case!!!  Isn't this 
    what its all about.  Buying and Selling and making that BIG profit. 
    You have to keep turning over this stuff so we can have money to spend
    at the shows.  Buy, Sell, Buy, Sell.  Come on lets get with the
    Program!!

    
    Are you absolutely sure he will be in Cranston with his "famous
    suitcase"?
    
    I figured that with the Persian Gulf crisis going on, he would be 
    wearing on his head his "famous handkerchief"  and representing
    the PLO in some sort of peaceful high-level discussion
    
    8^)
    

    I'll be in Atlanta from January 19th through February 2nd.  Would
    someone please list any football card shows in that area?  
    
    Thanks....Glenn

    Should I interpret the lack of response to my question as there are no
    shows in the Atlanta area from Jan 19th - Feb 2nd?
    
    Thanks......Glenn

    Can you tell me where the show on Mar 9th in Nashua N.H. will be held 
    
    
    thanks Ron

    
    Collectors Club Card Show - Merrimack, NH  VFW Hall DW Highway
    Merrimack, NH
    
    Everett Turnpike Exit 11, left at end of exit, right at light, VFW
    hall is on your right.  20-25 tables of mostly collectors, a couple
    dealers.  10a.m. - 4p.m. with mini-auction at noon.
    

    Sports Card & Memorabilia Show   ---->  March 9th, 10AM to 4PM
    
    To benefit the Immaculate Conception School Student Council, 
    Marlboro, MA.
    
    Admission:  $1.00      8' Dealer Table: $25.00, 2 for $40.00
                                 42 TABLES
    
    For directions or a table reservation, send E-Mail to DELNI::BAKER

    Anyone know who appears what day at the show in Worcester this weekend?
    I'm more interested in Warfield and Unitas, but I'd appreciate the
    others as well...
    
    -Walt

    I agree John.  I went Saturday.  Wilhelm wasn't there with the flu, and
    Warfield was a couple of hours late.  Prices at the tables for the
    stuff I was looking for weren't as good as the show back in Waltham,
    so I went back and got what I wanted from there.  Not worth the drive
    from Burlington MA...
    
    

    I went to a show this Sunday for the 1st time since the Moscone show in
    September. 
    
    I had a couple of general observations I though I'd share.
    Addmission was a buck, that was nice, but the dealers were the same old
    crooks I've come to know and love. Of course $4.00 commons went for
    $10.00, while decent cards went for book, and nice cards went for
    considerably more. Finally saw the Desert Storm card set (this is the
    West Coast, where we get everything last) and they were selling for $15.00
    (factory). The Waxpacks were selling for $1.00 each, just a *tad* more
    than suggested retail. The latest Beckett's (with Rickey "the whiner"
    Henderson on the cover) were selling for $3.00, and while I was standing
    there a dealer bought 10 of them, God knows why.
    
    The highlight of the show was an autograph session by ex
    A's/Giant's/Royal's pitcher Vida Blue. I was actually the first person
    to get his signature. He was very warm and friendly, and was a pleasure
    to chat with. $6.00 was the price, and it all went to charity. Imagine
    that, what a concept!
    
    Other than the autograph, I didn't spend any money. I did notice that
    Canseco's and Henderson's rookie cards had dropped some in price, as
    well as Will Clark's. New stuff was everywhere and everybody had it.
    
    I also noticed 1991 Topps factory sets for sale. I don't ever remember
    them being available this early in the season, but then I'm not a big
    factory set buyer so maybe I just never noticed.
    
    All in all, same sh!t, different day. I can't wait for baseball season
    to start,
    
    John D.
      

    If this is inappropriate, please delete it.  I know I'm probably
    walking a fine line.
    
    I went to a show in Andover on Saturday.  Bourque and Kluzak were
    giving out autographs with admission.  Bourque 11-1, Kluzak 11-2.
    They came together.  I got there late (show started at 9, I got there
    around 10:30-10:45) and they gave me a ticket number - 957 or so.
    
    I asked they guy at the table if he really thought I'd have a chance
    to get anything signed and he said everyone would.  Well, without
    going through all the details, they only got through #700 or so. They
    were also selling autographs in addition to the one you got with
    admission, so there's no real way to know who many actually got signed.
    I do know around 1100 tickets were given out to people claiming they'd
    get a free one.
    
    Needless to say, some people were annoyed when they got the word they
    had waited around for 3+ hours not to get an autograph.  Bourque did
    stay an extra hour to try and accommodate the people, but somehow the
    people running the show didn't really plan very well if they thought
    they could get around 1200+ autographs signed in 2 hours.  They did
    say everyone would get one "time permitting", but someone didn't think
    very hard about this one or may have misled some people.  In addition,
    some people got refunds if they didn't get autographs and some didn't.
    I think most people (other than kids) laid the blame with the guy
    running the show and not Bourque, but it makes me wonder how they
    really thought this would work.  Kluzak signed some more things out
    in the parking lot, but overall, I think it was a mess, and it would
    make me a little more wary to attend shows like this general...
    
    -Walt

                     FYI - Fathers Day Show
    
      	There's a card show in Worcester this weekend at the
    Marriott hotel near Lincoln Square. It's running for 3
    days starting on Fri 6/14 - Sun 6/16.
    Friday    5pm - 9pm
    Saturday 10am - 5pm
    Sunday   10am - 4pm
    I believe the admission is $5 for Friday and $6 Sat&Sun.
    
    
    Miguel
    

	The USA's second favorite pastime,baseball card collecting, suffered
	a blow on the Fourth of July.
	Officials at the National Sports Collectors Convention in Anaheim,
	California, said trading cards valued at approximately $500,000 were
	stolen before the weekend show opened.
	Two unidentified exhibitors, one from Maryland and the other from the
	Los Angeles area, reported Thursday that several hundred cards from
	there collections were missing. According to the Los Angeles Times,
	the dealers, who were sharing a booth at the convention, left it 
	unattended after setting up their displays Wednesday afternoon. At the
	time, other dealers were still in the hall.
	Missing from the collections: four Ty Cobb cards, a 1933 Babe Ruth
	card and possibly a pair of Lou Gehrig cards.
	Mike Berkus, busniess manager of the Anaheim Convention Center, said
	he beleives the theft took place overnight Wednesday, while the center
	was closed.
	"We searched all the restrooms and anyplace where somebody could get
	some privacy," Berkus told the TIMES, "Somebody would have needed a 
	truck to get those cases out."
	The Anaheim Police Department is investigating.

    
    I heard on HSC the other night (it's like watching a car accident,
    you just have to look! 8^), when they had "Barry the expert" on,
    that people wre scalping $5 admission tix for $50 to this
    show -- truth or more HSC-nonsense?

    Did anyone else here any sh_t on the National Show, like what were they
    giving away for free-bees, and any new records set on individual cards.
    I heard a 52T Mantle set a new record, $52,000.  Anyone else here of
    how the show was, or did anyone go to it.  I would be interested in 
    hearing about it.  Are these really what they are cut out to be??  Or 
    are they like the local shows times 10 ?  Are deals to be had at these
    shows, or what??

    
    Next year's show is also the first being run by the convention
    organization "Smith-Bucklin", that the National Committee has
    hired.  Of course, the dealers in SCD are all bemoaning that the
    National is now going to be run "professionally".
    
    These are the same dealers who touted this National as great, while
    EVERY SINGLE letter in SCD from a reader bemoaned the show as being
    hideous.
    
    Some of the highlights ...
    
    	o They had a dealer preview night where any dealer could get in
    	  and get associated with the trade booth representatives.  The
    	  kicker is that all you needed to get in was a business card
    	  from a "sports related" business.  The dealers were moaning
    	  that they weren't able to get in because there were so many
    	  people there with "fake business cards".
    
    	  First question I have, is why are the dealers given first
    	  crack at the freebies?  First comment is that the dealers don't
    	  seem to like it when they get locked out on something by other
    	  dealers (turn-about is fairy play!).
    
    	  Then they began to blame the show promoters (who by most
    	  accounts should be lynched) who spent about $100,000 on
    	  advertising, and most of the advertising (must've been in
    	  California because other than SCD I saw little of it)
    	  centered on the corporate booths (!!!130 of them!!!) all
    	  giving !!!freebies and promos!!!! -- come get yours !!!now!!!
    	  !!!last year's are selling for ****hundreds of dollars****!!!!.
    
    	  If attendance had been poor, and they hadn't spent any money
    	  on advertising, they'd be crying about that too.  Can't have
    	  it both ways kiddies.
    
    	o Many readers complained about long lines for the promos that
    	  were available.  3 and 4 hours to get your promo package
    	  from one company or another.  Dealers walking up to you after
    	  you get your package and offering you $100 for it (thank
    	  you very much sucker).
    
    	o Lines of thousands of people waiting for admission tickets
    	  (to get the promos of course), and the admissions window
    	  being shut for hours while they tried to get some of the
    	  people inside out, so they could allow more people in.
    
    	  But if you're in line for four hours to get a promo, you
    	  sure aren't leaving in any hurry.
    
    	o Scalped admission tickets ($200 was the highest price I
    	  heard).
    
    	o The autographs were supposed to be a zoo, but nothing to
    	  compare to the "promo" lines.
    
    The dealers in SCD bleated about how great it was that the hobby
    has reached the point where this many people would want to come
    to the National.
    
    I retch.  I think this is disgusting.  Every flea-bag and quick
    money scam artist in the world flocks to this kind of spectacle.
    I want my hobby back to where I can go to a friday night card
    show, sift through a box of commons to finish a set, or buy a
    set or some wax boxes, and not be inundated with this kind of
    crap.
    
    This ain't me going for a ride on Farmer Tony's turnip truck.
    It's just that this is not a hobby.  Anyone who tries to
    convince me otherwise has got a long hard battle ahead of them.
    For every person whose been in this hobby for longer than three
    years, there's 25 recent converts.
    
    Now I'm not saying all the recent converts are the quick-buck,
    whole-hog, investment minded scum we all seem to see so much of,
    but 90% of it is.
    
    I want my hobby back the way it was when there were no variations,
    no error cards, no periodicals that carry columns on the damned
    things!  I recently did a whole bunch of trading (through this
    notesfile with a whole bunch of people), and not a penny changed
    hands.  And people finished sets, and helped each other out, and
    looked for things for people's wantlists at shows, and worked out
    arrangements for "delivery" ... this was FUN.  And everyone I spoke
    with said it was so much fun just to trade cards to finish their
    sets.  *THAT* is what Ed Norris and I had in mind when we started
    this notesfile.  Noters helping each other out, and trying to keep
    each other from certain scum-sucking "elements" of the hobby if
    possible.  And I'm glad to see it used for that purpose.
    
    They can keep the National.  I want my notesfile!
    
    								-rjk

    RE: .131
    
    For wat it's worth, I agree with your sentiment. However, our "hobby"
    will never return to the state you describe. Too much money in it. And
    when there isn't any more money to be squeezed out, the bums will rush
    to something else, and leave the card collecting hobby in ruins.
    
    I read an article in last months Consumer Reports that described the
    ruination of the stamp and coin collecting pastime, complete with
    "slabing" (professional grading services) etc. The parallels between
    them and card collecting were evident (to me).
    
    John D.

    
    I went to a show yesterday in bedford, nh, John Hannah was signing
    autographs for a $1.  Lots of OPC Premiere Baseball with everyone
    in collusion selling at $3/pack and $100/box.  You get all of 7 cards
    in a single pack.  I'm looking for these to perhaps be the first
    bomb of the recent high priced cards.  No one was buying them by the box 
    that I saw.  I few boxes of stadium were around for $4.75/pack, Leaf was
    $75/box, pacific football $37/box, $45 for the factory set (550 cards).
    
    I think some dealers are holding back their Gold Leaf rookie cards,
    very few had singles for sale, the one dealer hawking a set was
    asking $75 for it, and get this, $20 for a Mo Vaughn.  Supposedly
    these sets (1-12) are going for $50 "on the wire" (i.e. SportsNet).
    
    I also couldn't find hardly anyone with Fleer PV cards.  One guy
    had Bo for $3, but that was it.
    
    Hannah seemed like a really down to earth, nice guy.  You could tell
    from hearing him chat about it, that he was very grateful/touched
    for being inducted into the hall of fame.  No presumptions at all,
    nice to see a lineman get his deserved recognition.
    
    jeff
    

    
    
    Arrrggggh!  Wish I had known Hannah would be there ... being that
    football is my favorite sport, and I played OG ... old #73 is my
    alltime favorite ... oh well.
    
    The two summers I went to football camp, I got Leon Gray as the
    president pro.  My brother who went two years later got Hannah.
    (and don't let all that weight fool you, those guys are FAST
     -- gray put me on my ass so fast one time it wasn't even funny,
     well, alright, yes it was. 8^)
    
    I finally did find a way to contact him via mail.  He responded
    with a nice letter and autographing the cards I requested.  This
    was about a year ago, and I congratulated him on his soon-to-be
    induction into the Hall.
    
    A man who truly deserved it.  Only wish I could've been in Canton
    that day.

    
    
    	My wife and I went to a Celts game a couple of years back and
    Hannah sat right next to us.....definately a class act....talked
    with us during the game (he initiated it not us)....several people
    came  up to him for autographs and he didn't turn anyone away.
    
    
    				Bob
    

    
    I wonder just how many issues the investors can hoard.  I mean there
    has to be a limit where even all the investors won't keep up, soon
    you will have topps series II and then Upper Deck and stadium football.
    I'm just guessing that maybe OPC baseball gets skipped, just one too
    many "hot, scarce" card issues.  For only 7 cards in a pack, the set
    is small, the only thing going for it (from investor's point of
    view) is the track record of OPC Premiere Hockey.  Again, I'm guessing
    here that maybe the investors/hoarders will say that it is too much of
    a gamble.  Of course I'm sure we will start hearing how limited the
    total production is, dealers will say they heard it is the same as
    hockey, etc.  However, how many shows can these dealers do with boxes
    at $100 and not selling?  At a minimum this seems like one not to
    buy right away, if you want to collect OPC Premiere baseball, at least
    wait for the dip in price that always seems to follow the initial
    introduction.  Sometime the dip doesn't last for more than a few weeks,
    but it always seems to happen.
    
    jeff
    

    
    Re .134:
    >...			The new Classic Board  game  was going
    >for 45$ so if you bought one off of Home Shopping Club for 40$ plus
    >S&H you got a deal ;-) Of course there are still ads in SCD for 32$
    >or so. 
    
    Is this the same Classic Board game(s) I saw today in Toys R Us for
    $11.99 a piece for both series I and II?  Toys r Us also has the
    classic picks set for $9.99, cheapest I have seen it anywhere.
    (maybe I should run over and buy a few? :-)
    
    jeff
    

    
    And before John volunteers me ... 8^)
    
    No, I won't be buying sodas/coffee, as I won't be in attendance.
    
    However, you can look me up on 9/1 in Sturbridge, and I'll at least
    show you where the refreshment stand is ... 8^)

    I show a flyer for SUPERSHOW III at Andover, MA at the 
    Sheration Rolling Green on Dec 13 (Preview) 5pm - 10pm
    Dec 14 (Jeff Bagwell) will be signing autographs 9am - 5pm
    Dec 15 (Frank Thomas) will be signing autographs 9am - 5pm.
    Price for autographs; Bagwell $  5.00
                          Thomas  $ 15.00
    admission to show $ 3.00
    
    Miguel

    Is this in addition to  or replacement of the Sept 29th show which
    is also suppose to be at the Sheraton Rolling Green (Per Beckett's )?

           
    
    	On the first week of every month, there is a card show at the Park
    	Plaza in Marlboro (Rte. 20) near the intersection of Rte. 495.
    
    	Here are some of the lowest prices I found at the show this past
    	weekend:
    
    	91 UD Football boxes		$35
    	91 UD Football Holograms	  2/3
    	91 UD Baseball Hi # boxes 	 32
    	91 Leaf Baseball		 60
    	Pacific Football boxes		 25
    	Domino's/UD Football sets	 35
    	Hank Aaron Hologram		 10

    Does anyone know the details of the card show that is suppose
    to be at the Best Western Royal Plaza (Fitchburg) - on route 31,
    off route 2 this saturday?  I keep hearing that there's suppose to
    be a card show this Saturday 1-9pm, and that Mike Greenwell, and 2
    or 3 other Red Sox are suppose to be there... but I haven't seen
    anything in the papers about it?

    
    
    Ayuh.  That's it exactly.  I believe Mike Greenwell, Steve Lyons,
    Scott Cooper, and one other Red Sox whose name I can't recall, are
    supposed to be there.   I have the flyer at home.
    
    I'll type in the specifics tonight (if I can), or tomorrow, if no
    one else can.
    
    -rjk

    and Phil Plantier, I believe.  I saw an ad on the back of the
    alternative program/scorecard that is sold outside of Fenway.
    I think the autos were $4 for each guy except for Greenie, who cost $8.
    
    Lance

    
    TI Sports Marketing		PH 401-826-0060
    
    The Tenth Inning Baseball Card Shp-  Daily: 1-8pm  Sat: 10am-6pm
    1248 Main Street  West Warwock RI 02893            Sun: 12-5pm
    
    		R E D    S O X    E X T R A V A G A N Z A
    
    			Mike "Gator" Greenwell
    			   Phil Plantier
    		     	   Scott Cooper
    		  	Steve "Psycho" Lyons
    
                                            ADVANCED   AT THE DOOR
    
    GREENWELL			BALLS/FLATS:	$8         $10
    				BATS:	       $12	   $15
    
    PLANTIER, COOPER,		BALLS/FLATS:	$4	   $5
     & LYONS			BATS:		$4         $5
    
    "SUPER TICKET" $16 (All 4 players on balls/flats)
    
    
    October 5th (Saturday) 1991:	12pm to 8pm
    
    			ROYAL PLAZA TRADE CENTER
    			    FITCHBURG, MASS.
    
    Directions: I-190 to Rt. 2 West -- Exit Rt 31 (Princeton/Fitchburg)

    
    No, no signing times were given.  But since the Sox have an afternoon
    game that day, I imagine the players will be driven to the show after
    the game.
    
    Expect signing to be posted at show as "approximately" 4:00, and then
    don't be surprised when the players don't get there until much later.
    
    -rjk

    
    Bishop Guertin  Sports Collectors & Comic Book Show
    
    Saturday Nov. 2nd,  Exit 4 off rte3/everett turnpike in nashua, N.H.
    
    96 tables, 2$ admission gets you one "free" autograph from Ryne Duren
    former fastballer Yankee pitcher.  Signing is from 11 to 2.  There
    will also be a raffle and silent auction.  
    
    

Nov 8-10

Shriner's Auditorium
Exit 39, Off Rt. 93
Wilmington MA.

Bob Gibson
$10.00
Bats $15.00
Saturday 11am.

Whitey Ford
$15.00
Bats $25.00
Sunday 1-3:30

Times are approx.

    
    Get there early, or you will end up parking a LONG distance from
    the auditorium.
    
    The place is big, has plenty of room between the aisles, but it
    fulls up quickly.
    
    Plenty of deals to be had, lots of reputable dealers there, and
    drop by and say hi to Mike Kelly of Hometown Heroes.
    
    And please, if you get the opportunity, tell Bob Gibson that his
    favorite "PITA" says hello ... 8^)
    
    -rjk

.159 listed the hours for the autographs but what are the hours
for the whole show on Friday, Sat. & Sun.?

Is it open on Friday night?

db

    
    My notice from the GBSCC lists ...
    
    	 		ADULT	CHILD	MEMBER OF GBSCC	
       	TIMES   	FEE	FEE	ENTRANCE FEE
    
    	Friday   2-7	$10    	??($10?) Free
    	Saturday 9-5    $4      $2	Free
    	Sunday  10-4    $4	$2	Free
    
    

    
    Why is friday so special?  Is there more to the $6 premium than
    simply getting first crack at all the wonderful bargain merchandise?
    
    jeff
    

    Monthly Sportscard Show coming to Clinton MA at St John's Gym.
    Jan 5th '92, Noon to 7PM. 54 Tables. (tables available).


    For more info call 508-368-7341 or 508-369-6345
    











    
    

    
    Tommy Lasorda will be appearing at the Victory Grocery Market in
    Clinton Massachusetts, tonight from 4pm until 7pm.
    
    He's there as part of a promotional tour to introduce his new line
    of food products.
    
    -rjk

    RE: .166
    
    You think he'll sign my Slimfast can?
    
    8^)
    
    John D.

    
    OOps.  It's the Victory in Leominster, not Clinton.
    
    Sorry for the confusion.
    
    -rjk

    	Was able to make the show in Wilmington on Saturday, lots of
    great deals. I was a little upset because I couldn't find any of
    the 91 - 92 Fleer Rookie Sensations at a good price.
    One Table had the set for $30 and, one other table had it for $35,
    Coleman was going for $10 and so was Dee Brown. 
    I picked up for $5 a 18 card set of 92 "Kellogg's" college basketball
    greats, K. Anderson, C. Drexler, W.Tisdale, H. Grant, K. Johnson, 
    K.Malone, L.Bird, J. Stockton, D.Smith, M.Price, H.Olajuwon, C.Smith,
    B.King, T.Hardaway, S.Webb, M. Macon, S.Pippen and G.Payton.
    	I also picked up a Rick Fox Promo card from "Front Row" also they
    had a promo card of Larry Johnson written in Japanese.
    Most of the inventory was Baseball, Hockey then Basketball.
    
    Miguel

	Impressions from the Biggest New England Show this past weekend
	in Wilmington (GBSCC) at the Shriner's.

	It was a BIG show, lots of dealers, great bargains, best prices
	I've seen anywhere.  Stopped by Mike Kelly's table to say Hello,
	saw a couple of Deccies there (The Saint and Nance).  Ended up
	spending more money than I had anticipated because the bargains
	were so good. However, I was disappointed because I didn't find
	many dealers that had card singles.

	Got to meet Al Rosen (Mr. Mint), he was standing there wearing a real
	nice suit, fancy watch and a big ring (looked like gold and diamonds).
	He looked first class all the way.   While I was there, this old
	timer came over the table, and he was carrying an autographed
	basketball wrapped in cellophane.  He asked Mr. Mint how much it
	might be worth.  Mr. Mint took the ball, turned it around, looked
	at all the autographs, and said it was worth $750.

	Do you want to buy it ?, said the old man.
	No, I don't buy anything from the 80's, said Mr. Mint.

	You can have it for $500, said the old man.
	I only buy stuff from the 60's, that's my era, said Mr. Mint.

	The old man took the ball, and walked away with a disgusted look
	on his face.  

	Hey, maybe there is a message in there for all of us.  I was thinking
	about that incident, and a thought came to my mind.  I can picture
	myself in the year 2010, retired, and needing money.  I go to a card
	show carrying a Ricky Henderson rookie card.  I go to a table, and
	show it to a dealer.  

	ME:	Do you want to buy it?
	DEALER: No, I have lots of them, and I can't sell them.		

	ME:	According to Beckett's it's worth $800, you can have it 
		for $500, I need the money.
	DEALER: No, thanks.  I can't even sell mine for that much.

	ME:	Look, I really need the money.  How much will you give me ?.
	DEALER: Well... If you really need the money, I'll buy it for $200.

	That's about what the card is worth today, so if you think you are
	going to make a killing by buying the card now, and selling it in 
	the year 2010, think again.  I hope I turn out to be wrong about
	this, but I wouldn't be surprised if it turned out to be right.

	Further ramifications:

	In the above story, I decided to sell the card, and ...

	DEALER: What is your Social Security number ?.
	ME:	What do you need it for ?.

	DEALER: By law, the IRS requires that we record the Name and
		Social Security number of the recipient anytime we pay
		somebody more than $25 for merchandise.  I will have to
		see your Social Security card and driver's license.
	ME:	#@%&*?/#@#@##@##&##&?  (Censored...)

    
    As a collector of older stuff I thought I might be able to provide a
    little different view of the show.  It was by far the biggest show I'be
    ever been to (150 tables ... previous high maybe 40 local guys/gals).
    
    I thought the show was great on two dimensions.
    
    1) the selction was great ... I was looking for a lot hockey cards from the
    60s and a few football cards from the 60s.  If I had had the bucks I
    could have virtually filled out both my hockey and football card
    collections.  In the case of the hockey cards I have previously totally
    cleaned out about local 5 dealers of every card in which I was
    interested and never seen the older stuff (1967/1968 and older).  A
    show like this is the only way to find older stuff.                    
                            
    2) the prices were great ... For example, I was looking for football
    stars and never paid more than lower Beckett for cards at least EX/MT
    mostly Nr/MT.  I think the competition from so many dealer in one place
    helped keep the prices down a lot!
    
    Final impression from a big show ... BE PATIENT ... try to get all the
    way around before you jump in and buy.  I saw a couple great deals
    which I jumped on early (to make sure the card wouldn't be gone) only
    to find a better deal on the next aisle.
                                                                    
    
    See you at next years show,
    Greg

    
    It did seem as if there were a bit of a fire-sale going on this
    weekend.  Many dealers were trying to move a lot of stuff out at
    "rock-bottom" prices.
    
    Pro-line (which every dealer was selling for .75 cents a pack
    except one -- which works out to $27/box) was available for $15/box
    (go figure).
    
    Fleer Basketball was available at $7/8 box -- this years.  Football
    from Fleer was available from $8-13/box.  ET cards were available
    at $3/wax-box, as were quite a number of other non-sports sets.
    
    Stuff which was available at one price on Saturday was available
    for less on Sunday.  Heisman sets that John saw for $10 on Saturday
    were priced at $7 on Sunday.  Bowman hockey priced at $20/Saturday
    was bought on Sunday for $14.
    
    As John has already pointed out, there was a marked lack of singles
    and commons available.  If stuff keeps coming out at the prodigious
    rate it has been, I think this will become more and more the problem.
    
    While I realize that a lot of the dealers were the same as they were
    the last couple of years, there were obviously some new ones there.
    And they just weren't up to the "class" of dealer I've come to
    expect from a GBSCC show.
    
    Last year's seemed a lot more impressive, maybe because almost
    everything every dealer had was available at an exceptional price.
    Many times John and I commented that we were saving our big bucks
    for the GBSCC show this year.  Only to be disappointed.
    
    I found a few things I wanted, not many.  I found a '64 Clemente
    coin (Topps) at an incredible price (I haven't bothered to look
    it up in a price guide, but I loved the price, and that's all
    that counts! 8^), some checklists for John, and the Hoops "Slam
    Dunk" subsets.  Oh yeah, and a Heisman set for $7 ... 8^)
    
    -rjk

I managed to get down there on Sunday and found some of the same 
deals that othere have mentioned. Seemed alot more crowded this 
year?

You might have run into me, I had my 8 month old son, Josh, with 
me in a backpack.

He enjoyed it too...

daryll

    
    
    I am wondering if anyone noticed the price of Score Hockey 91 English 
    cards at the show.  My local dealer had a booth at the show and I want 
    to know what he was selling there for. he came back to the store and 
    said yesterday that the price is now up to $18.95 a box. considering 
    I asked every week for three weeks and he's gone up $1.00 every week. 
    
    
    Ron
    

    
    I didn't notice them at the show.
    
    I believe Rotman's is charging $15.95 for a factory set.
    
    -rjk

    Show in Andover weekend of Dec. 14th now includes:
    Fri night - Plantier
    Sat - Bagwell and Glavine
    Sun - Thomas and Knoblach
    
    Admission $3/day, $7/weekend.  

    For the maybe 10 of us up here in the extreme NorthEast (as in Maine)
    there will be a SuperShow at the Augusta Civic Center on November 30. 
    Roger Clemens is scheduled, but they are charging $15 for his
    autograph.  There are supposed to be 140-170 dealer tables, and
    admission is $3.  It starts at 10am, and runs until 7pm.

    
    All I know is, I was there until 12:30 or so, and Frank Thomas still
    hadn't shown.  Neither had in fact (Thomas or Knoblauch).  And the
    facilities they had were extremely inadequate for the card show,
    never mind with two autograph guests.
    
    -rjk

    there was rain coming in through the roof on saturday!

    We were there from 11:00 A.M. through 3:30 P.M.  seems that Chuckie
    wanted not only his own table, but wanted to sell his own Pre-Signed
    materials. Example 1 Presigned Baseball Bat $68.00 and he was to keep
    any and all profits.  
    
    Big Frank really disillusioned my 12 year old son.  I'm glad I was
    able to take him to see Phil Plantier on Friday night.  Guess who
    my son's new "Hero" is.  Phil not only personalized Jared's picture,
    but he took 5 minutes at the end of the night to talk to him and to
    wish him a happy holiday.  He was willing to speak with any of the
    kids at the end of the night and really seem to be enjoying himself
    doing it.
    
    That's all I can add, other than the show was really crowded on Sunday,
    and on Friday night, I was told by a parking attendant to "make a Uey
    and leave, there's no more parking spaces, come back later!" Needless
    to say, I found a parking space not too far outside the entrance door
    within 3 minutes of driving around this attendant.
    
    All in all my son and his buddies had a real good time, dealers were
    very attentive to their wants and needs.  Jared won 2 different sets
    of cards, 1 a wax box of Hockey and the other a hand-collated 1991 
    Score Baseball set.  Mom was able to get her 2 Disney Holograms at
    a reasonable price too.
    
    nance (Jared's mom)

    
    Where is this show held?

    The Clinton show is at St. Johns Gym on Union St. in Clinton.  Real
    easy to get to and right near downtown.  Lots of parking, refreshments
    and room to walk around the tables.
    
    

    
    And the show *STUNK*.
    
    Literally left 3 minutes after I entered.  Were there 5, or 6
    dealers there?  Did anyone have anything older than 1989?
    
    Won't be getting me back there anytime soon.
    
    Don't waste your time on this show, or your $1 admission fee (which
    is highway robbery IMO).
    
    -rjk

    Are there any more shows coming up?  I keep checking this notesfile,
    not sure of where else to find out about them.

    
    SCD has a pretty thorough listing of shows in every issue.  If it's
    not liste there, it's probably listed in Tuff Stuff or Beckett's.
    
    Once you've gone to a few, you find that there's a table of flyers,
    announcing other shows in the area, and a chain reaction occurs.
    
    If you're ever interested in a particular date, in a particular area,
    just ask.  I'll try and give you an idea of what's available on those
    dates from SCD ...
    
    -rjk

    Anybody have more details about the show this Saturday at Brandeis U?
    I saw a small ad in the Globe sports section advertising Mo Vaughn,
    Jeff Juden and 15 others.  The show runs 9-5.  I haven't combed SCD yet
    for show details but the ad lists (617) 736-3639 for information.  The
    Cystic Fibrosis Foundation may be a beneficiary since it is listed in
    the ad.  Heck, if I get a chance to call and get more info, I'll post
    it.  If anybody has the inside scoop or calls, please post it.  I
    remember there being a show there last year at this time as well.

Does anyone know anything about the Burlington, MA show at the VFW tonite?

Is it worth the trip?

    That's tonight?  I don't know, I haven't gone in a while..

    I went to the Burlington show a few months ago.  Yeah, I skipped
    V-ball.  Anyway, I thought it was a good show and will go back again
    one of these Wednesdays.  I was able to find that 1970 Mike Garrett,
    even if it was a filler.  The guy didn't have much football but he had
    what I needed.  Pretty good selection all around.

    You skipped v-ball?  Sheesh, where are your priorities...

    Yeah, I skipped V-ball.  Think it was still September and we woulda
    had too many.  It may have been August so V-ball may not have been
    happening.  Besides, my other half wanted to go to the Burlington mall. 
    Anyway, I did play the night that hurricane hit Boston (the 2nd,
    unexpected one) when most of our team wimped out.
    
    There's a show coming up in Randolph Feb 1, 9:30-3:30, at the Lantana
    Function facility.  $2 to get it plus free autos from Kevin Morton and
    Bob Zupcic.  Anybody ever been to this one?  I haven't but might go.
    It's 128S to exit 5A.  Follow Rt28 for 1/4 mi to first lights.  Take a
    right and the Lantana is on the right.

    
    There's a show tonight at the Park West Hotel in Marlboro.
    
    There's one in Lowell on Saturday featuring free 'graphs from
    Stephan Quintal (as time permits).
    
    There's one in Sturbridge on SB Sunday (Rizzuto and someone else,
    non-baseball I blv)
    
    -rjk

    The other guy is Sturbridge is Jake LaMotta, I believe.  

    
    Now that you mention it, I believe you're right.  Rather see
    Vicky ... 8^)

    Card show this Saturday 2/8 in Fitchburg MA
    
    Notre Dame school - South Street
    
    Free Admission.  Last one was pretty good... had severallarge dealers
    from the Boston area.

    
    Does anyone have info on when exactly the next BG show is?  I believe
    it is sometime in March, but I was wondering the exact day/date.
    
    jeff
    

    According to SCD Saturday March 14 9am - 3pm

    
    Anyone ever been to the Austin Prep show in Reading, MA?  It is
    this saturday from 9-4, one dealer up here in nh tells me that
    Austin Prep is the Bishop Guertin show of mass., been there for
    some 12 years now.  John, have you ever gone before?
    
    jeff
    

    I went last year. Its not a bad show its smaller than BG and I think
    there was an admission $1. But there were dealers that had older stuff.
    I think it was worth it last year.
    
    John Di

    
    Guess I need to qualify those John's...
    Thanks, I was wondering if there might be some older football there.
    
    jeff t.
    

    
    Well, it's a rare weekend indeed when I don't have flyers at home
    for a couple of shows.
    
    In fact, I have *none* for this upcoming weekend.
    
    What to do with myself?  Something useful?  Something familial?
    Something life enrichening?
    
    Nah, beg the notesfile to help me find a card show or two or three
    to go to this weekend ...
    
    Anyone know of any card shows for this weekend (2/29, 3/1), in the
    Mass., CT., RI, NH area -- worth attending?
    
    I believe there's one in Marlboro on Sunday (the Radisson, formerly
    the Park West), that was okay the last time I went.
    
    -rjk

    
    	Roy,
    		I go to the Marlboro show every month, and even though
    	it's not one of the better ones, it's not bad.
    
    		There is also another show on March 1, in Waltham, at
    	the Rootin Tootin, Days Inn Hotel, exit 22 from Rte. 128, from
    	9 AM - 3 PM, which I think it's a little better than the one
    	in Marlboro, but I usually end up going to both of them.

    
    Roy,
    If you're up for a little travel you may want to head to Salem, NH
    this sunday, Rt 93 exit 2 the Econo Lodge at 1 Keewaydin Dr, about
    3 miles into NH from MA.  Addmission is $3, for that you get a "free"
    Leonard Russell autograph.  There will be some decent dealers (and
    hopefully deals!) there if it is anything like the last show there
    when Scott Cooper signed.  Personally I think Leonard was probably
    the class of the rookie offensive talent from last year.  If he had
    a line like Ervins did in Washington, his stadium card would $10-$15
    right now.
    
    jeff
    

    There's a show in Burlington at the Days in on Sunday was well...
    $1 admission...

    
    RE: .210
    
    	Is this a Bill Hedin show?
    
    -rjk

    Don't remember... don't think so...

    Burlington is indeed a Bill Hedin show.  Might be your best bet as
    there are 90 tables.
    
    Hmmmm, let's see what else there is (besides tater tots):
    
    Tonight - Milford
    Tomorrow - Milton, E. Boston, Brockton, Middleboro
    Sunday - Newton, Burlington, Marlboro, Fall River, Whitman, Auburn and 
    	     Beverly
    
    I remember the Salem one was pretty good from the one time that I
    attended.  Also been to Newton, Burlington and Marlboro (once).
    I'll probably go to Newton since it is close to home.  If you go there,
    let me know.

    
    I thought that that was the Hedin one.  I went to the one last month
    and it was indeed pretty good.  A lot of tables, decent prices ...
    
    I wanted to make sure it was going to be the same show before
    trapsing up there...
    
    (Plus, I have a free pass to the show ... 8^)

	Milford show tonight starts at 5:30 and ends at 10:00
	It's one mile off route 495 on route 85. Across from Rosenfield
	little league field at the Century House.

	1$ admission, 50c with flyer..

	Next show is April 17th

    The last Burlington at Days Inn was a mere two weeks ago.  Guess I
    missed both you and Walt as I got there afternoon.  Have fun.

    We're planning on a small card show (about 30 tables) on April 25,1992
    from 9 until 3.  The show will be held at the Dudley-Gendron post in
    Sutton.  The post is located off route 146.  Tables are $25.00 each. 
    If you're interested send me a message on VINYDS::MORIN.
    
    Thanks
    Mike
    

	Show this weekend (21 & 22)

	Place:		Community College of R.I. (Warwick Campus)
	Time:		10:00am - 6:00pm
	Autograph Time:	 2:00pm - 4:00pm
	Admission:	$2.00 6 & under FREE

	Kevin Stevens (Saturday only) Fee $5
	Adam Oats (Sunday only)	Fee $7 (Advance $5)

	Pictures & Pucks available day of show $3ea

	100 Dealer tables available $50ea day.

	Directions:
	95 South - Exit 12B - 95 North, to 295 Exit 1
	
	For more infor, call	Steve (401) 823-3604
				Ron   (401) 823-4112

    Just a word of complaint, or a gripe.  I am tired of false advertising
    by Show promoters.  Here are two examples, of false advertising, I
    won't print names but these are two examples of false advertising by
    the same promoter.
    
    #1 In march there was a supershow in Bangor, Maine.  The show was
    supposed to have 140 tables, and Leonard Russell was supposed to be
    signing free autographs.  The show had 100 tables, and Leonard Russell
    never showed up.  This angered alot of customers, and in my opinion was
    false advertising.
    
    #2 April 18th in Augusta there was also a Supershow, sponsered by the
    same promoter who arranged the show in Bangor.  He has had ads in
    Tuffstuff and Beckett, and all around the State to promote this show. 
    He said on the Ads, 120-140 tables.  When I got to the show on Sat. 
    there were only 70 tables.  While I realize that you can't judge the
    exact amount of tables that will be at your show, to advertise 140 when
    you only have half that number rented is false advertising.
      
    I'm not saying all promoters are like this, but I feel bad for anyone
    who may have drove some distance expecting a big show when in my
    opinion the show sucked.  I was upset that I had gotten up early to hit
    the show early so I'd have plenty of time to shop around, and then it
    took me less than an hour to go through the whole show and find a few
    cards and boxes I needed.  
    
    Maybe I'm way off base on this, I was just wondering what some of the 
    rest of you thought about this issue. 

    Anyone hear anything about shows at either the Centrum (June 6-7) or
    the Boston Garden (June 13th)?
    

    Here's what I found out:
    
    Worcester Centrum
    June 6th - Oates/Roenick/Stevens signing, $8/autograph
    June 7th - Reggie Jackson, still tracking this one down
    
    Boston Garden  (from the flyer)
    June 13th 10am-9pm, $6 admission
    Moog, Bucyk, Park, Rocket Richard, Nancy Kerrigan, maybe more
    Door prize - 4 tix to next year's NHL all-star game in Montreal
    200+ dealers, photo shoots, locker room tours,  

    Walt,
    
    Do you have an update to these shows coming up at the centrum and 
    boston garden. Are the guests that you mentioned definates?
    
    
    Thanks,
    Steven
    

    Nope, no other word, and I can't call right now... You can try
    
    
    June 6/7 @ Centrum
    617-334-4401 or 617-944-7662
    
    June 13 @ Garden
    800-343-1291
    
    Let me know if you find anything out...
    

    Just called about the June 6th and 7th show at the Worcester Centrum.
    
    	it's been CANCELLED! due to contract problems...
    

    Regarding the Boston Garden show.
    
    
    I just called to confirm that show.. here's the latest scoop
    
    
    	Sat June 13th, 10am - 9pm
    	$6 admission
    	Free autographs by: Moog, Bucyk, Park, Rocket Richard, Nancy
                            Kerrigan, Terry Oreilly, Steve Leech
    
    	Autographs start as early as 11:00am.
    	$2 raffles for sticks, and other prizes
    	locker room tours, photo shoots
    
    	Can purchase tickets in advance by calling TICKETPRO 1-800-828-7080
	
    	150 dealers from US and Canada.

    Thanks for the info and followup...
    

    Anyone hear about a decent sized show at BC High this weekend?
    

    
    Big one in Braintree this weekend.  Bunch of hackme stiffs are
    signing 'graphs, along with Dikembe Mutombo, Steve Grogan, and
    Steve Nelson among others.
    
    -rjk

    Anyone have a Beckett's at work?  Is there a show in Albany this
    weekend?
    

       One in Albany on the 19th: FOD Rt 9 593 Columbia Tpke (E.Greenbush)
    10-4 35 tables $2.
                                        Denny

    
    Pete Rose will be at the Springfield Civic Center this Sunday.
    
    It's a two-day card show (both Saturday and Sunday).  Rick and Jon
    Barry WERE scheduled for Saturday, but have cancelled.
    
    -rjk

    Would someone enter a keyword "BGH" to the note with good directions
    to the Bishop's?
    
    thanks
    
    Dick

    There's a big show coming up Feb 26-28 at the Royal Trade Plaza in
    Marlboro, MA (off Rt.495 - Rt.20). Available for autographs will be:
    
    Emmitt Smith (Feb. 28 3PM-5PM)
    Troy Aikman  (Feb. 28 12PM-3PM)
    Tony Dorsett (Feb. 28 10AM-1PM)
    Doug Flutie  (Feb. 27 4PM-7PM)
    Dave Cowens  (Hours N/A)
    Bill Lee        ""  ""
    Luis Tiant      ""  ""
    Dick Radatz     ""  ""
    
    John

    John,
    
    Any idea of the cost of autographs for the Marlboro show?

    			Ovr Sized		
    Player	Flats	Items/Clothing	All Balls
    ----------	-----	--------------	---------
    Smith	 $25	     35$	   35$
    Aikman	 $25	     35$	   35$
    Dorsett	 $10	     15$	   15$
    Flutie	 $10	     15$	   15$
    Cowens	 $10	     15$	   15$
    Tiant	  $5	     10$	   10$
    
    Lee and Radatz are free
    
    For more details call 508-832-9737 or 508-842-4018
    
    John

    
    
    	John do you know if they are selling advance tickets.
    
    				Mike

    Hey,
    
    I am going to be in the Marlboro area on the 10th to 13th.  Are ther
    any good shows or card stores to go to during this time?  Thanks
    
    Jon

    I'm not sure, but the Bishop Guertin show in Nashua may be the 14th if
    you stick around an extra day.
    
    John
     

    Re. .236
    
    Yes, they do have advanced tickets. You could probably call one of the
    numbers listed to get more info on that.
    
    John

    
    
        Troy Aikman will not be at the show in Marlboro. But according to
    the flyer John Blue (4-7P.M.) & Irving Fryer (2-5P.M.) will be there on  
    Sat. 27th .  Show hrs Fri. 26th  5pm - 9pm  Sat. 27th 10am - 7pm
    Sun. 28th 10am -7pm . Admission is $2 on Fri. & $4 on Sat & Sunday you
    will get a free promo card with paid admission. 

    I got the latest flyer yesterday and saw that Aikman wasn't going to
    appear. The flyer says 50,000$ is being spent on advertising,  but I
    haven't seen anything in  any  papers  except  a blurb in one of the
    sports columns which  had  mentioned Aikman also. I guess I'll go to
    the Friday show.
    
    John

    If they want it packed, they should advertise on WEEI.  The BC show had
    lines that took 30-45 minutes to get in the door...
    

    >> If they want it packed, they should advertise on WEEI.  The BC 
    >> show had lines that took 30-45 minutes to get in the door...
    
    Boy, that's ironic...  I heard it on EEI this morning....
    
    Dan

    
    > I'm not sure, but the Bishop Guertin show in Nashua may be the 14th if
    > you stick around an extra day.
    
    John, is this correct?  The date of the BG show, I mean?
    
    Thanks...
    glenn
    

    I checked my SCD and it's Saturday March 13th.
    
    John

    The local paper had an ad for the Emmett Smith show Feb 26-Feb 28. Also
    appearing will be Micheal Irvin  and  Jay Novacek, although no dates or
    times were posted for the two.
    
    John

    They also mentioned on EEI comercial that Troy Aikman is available
    through mail-orders only....
    
    dan

    Big show ____________________________________________________
    Advertisement- SCD feb 26 issue pg 86
    
    New England Classic
    
    Where:::  Royal Trade Center  Marlboro, Ma(off rt. 495-rt.20)
    
    When :::  Friday   Feb 26 5pm-9pm
              Saturday Feb 27 10am-7pm
              Sunday   Feb 28 10am-7pm
    
    How much: $2  Fri preview
              $4  sat 
              $4  sun
          
    Dealer tables - 8ft. $175.00
    
    Autographers:::
       advanced autograph tickets available- strongly encouraged
    
             EMMITT SMITH   - sun 3pm-5pm 
             TONY DORSETT   - sun 10am-1pm
             DOUG FLUTIE    - sun 12pm-3pm
             DAVE COWENS    ?
             JAY NOVACHECK (sp?)
             JOHN BLUE - bruins rookie goal tender   ?
             IRVING FRYER
             BILL LEE
             LUIS TIANT
             DICK RADATZ
        plus other players
    for more info call:
    
    Three up and three down 
    508-832-9737 or 508-842-4018
    
    hope to see you there
    
    howie
    

    The Methuen High School Baseball Team is organizing a show for 
    4/18/93 (day before opening day) at the high school. They
    are looking for dealers. $30/table (2 for $50) no more then 2 tables
    per dealer (50 tables). If interested get in touch with me.
    
    All proceeds are going to support the team.
    
    Steve

    
    	Did anyone go to the BGHS card show this past Saturday
    	when the "Blizard of 93" hit the region ?.
    
    	I was planning to go but decided not to, and I was wondering
    	if the show was cancelled or if it went on as scheduled ?.
    	
    	Does anyone know ?.
    
    	Thanks,
    
    	Juan

I got there around 11:30 and there were a bunch of empty tables, in fact most
were empty.  Those that showed up were busy packing to leave.  Nobody was in
much of a mood to deal.  They just wanted to get out of there.  Maybe it was 
better around 9:00.

db

    Many of us went at 8:30. There were some good buys (IMO). 
    $37 for Skybox II, $20 for OPC Premier Hockey, 1990 Score BB $10,
    etc.... It seemed some dealers priced to sell early in anticipation
    of leaving before noon.
    
    If you are interested inother wax box prices send me a note.
    
    Steve

    
    I got there a few minutes after 9am and it was fairly empty for a BG
    show.  I few dealers were no shows, but alot were there.  No big
    bargains on series 2 basketball, except for $35/box for Skybox 2 (which
    went very fast at that price).  Stadium was $125+, $4/pack.  Beam team
    Shaq's were $200+.  Over all you didn't miss much.
    
    jeff
    

    
    			More on BG Show
    
    This was my first BG Show.
    
    I got a good deal on a Gordie Howe UD Insert set at $25.
    
    Found many dealers willing to bargain on several other individual
    insert cards I needed.
    
    As Steve Hayes said, many good deals on old wax.
    
    Saw a good, not great, price on the new Topps Domed Stadium set for
    $32.50.
    
    Serveral tables were no-shows, but all in all, I thought is was a good
    show (IMHO).
    
    Regards,
    Denny

    
    Anybody have details (times, who is signing what day) for this
    weekend's big show at BC High?  Is this another Vince's New
    England show like the last one about 6 months ago at BC High?
    
    I went on friday evening last time and it was a real hassle,
    took well over an hour to get into the place, poor setup 'cause
    there really wasn't that many people inside, just the line to get
    in didn't move quick enough.  Once in it was lots of good stuff
    though and I met some nice dealers with older football I needed.
    
    Supposed to be a bunch of Boston area athletes signing and Manon (1st
    lady of hockey), so I imagine even though things seem to have cooled
    off at the local show scene, this one will still be crowded with
    all the autograph seekers.
    
    Anybody have the details?
    
    jeff
    

    Fellow Collectors:
    
    I am going to be in the Mass/ Nh area this weekend,October 15 and 16th. 
    Are there any good, reliable shows during that anyone can direct me to?  
    
    Thanks,
    
    Jon

    Anyone have any details about a BIG card show that is supposed to
    be in Boston this weekend.  I think the Radio said it's at Boston
    College... but not exactly where.  or when, or what the cost was.
    
    They mentioned that Gordie Howe, and Rocket Richard, and a few others
    would be there to sign autographs...
    
    Looking for more details.. time/price of admission/price of
    autographs../ directions... etc
    
    Thanks,
    
    Cathi

    Local Boston papers (sports sections) had ads for this. Lots of players
    signing for free.  Probably be best if you picked up a paper to get the
    details.
    
    John

    It's a BC High School.  Down by UMASS-Boston.
    

    Check out todays Globe. They have info on it. I think it's 4-9 tonight.
    Gordie Howe is scheduled for tomorrow 1:30 to 4:00 (I think, going
    by memory, the paper is at home).
    
    Steve

    
    BTW, I'm told that because of free signings, admission is like $8.
    
    Regards,
    

    Bishop Guertin show in Nashua is tomorrow. If any noters want to meet
    around 9:30 at the snack bar, I hear Denny Pavlock is buying refresh-
    ments this year ;-)
    
    John

    
    John,
    
    Boy word spreads fast!
    
    I'll buy depending on prices at the show.  If there good, I'll spend
    all my money on cards, if not, I'll buy coffee.
    
    See you all there at 9:30.
    
    Regards,
    Denny
    
    

    Cam Neely is signing autographs at the card show tomorrow at
    KofC of Burlington, across from the Burlington Mall, starting at 6pm.
    
    Alex.

    Next Saturday Sept. 3rd is the Bishop Guertin show  at  the Bishop
    Guertin High School in Nashua NH. I think admission is a 1$. Hours
    are 9:00 to 3:00 I think, but every year we've gone early and they
    let us in. Usually good wax prices. 140 tables I think.
    
    I'll buy sodas, coffee this year for any noters (what's left of us
    anyway) at the snack bar at 10:00.
    
    John

    Attended the Bishop Guertin show Saturday. Good wax prices as usual:
    
    1994 Series II Upper Deck (not Collector's Choice) 30$ (all regions)
    1994 Pinnacle Baseball 25$
    1994 Upper Deck Collector's Choice Football, Baseball, Basketball 23$
    1994 Upper Deck SP - suprisingly 60$ for having just come out
    
    are a few of the items I noticed. I was hoping to get a box of UD
    Regular Football, but 55$ was the cheapest I saw and after seeing the
    baseball drop to 30$, I figure I'll wait for it.
    
    The next day I went to a small show at the Holiday Inn in Leominster
    and the dealers there were whining about the prices at BG. Especially
    one guy who wanted 65$ for his Upper Deck baseball and 85$ for SP. He
    was going on and on about how dealers who sell near or at cost are
    ruining things.
    
    John

    
    To add a couple things to Johns previous list:
    
     - Picked up a box of 93/94 Classic 4 Sports for $10.
     
     - Got a box of 250 Ultra Pro 9 pocket sheets for $20.
    
     And John did buy @10 a.m. just like he said he would!!!
    
    Regards,
    Denny
    

    
    	Mike, do you have any info on who is signing at the show
    	at St.John's this coming weekend?
    
    	/thx, alex

    When is the Fall Bishop Guertin show?  Is it labor weekend as in the
    past?
    
    Regards,
    

    It is Saturday September 2nd. It was listed in the Nashua Telegraph
    about a week ago. I may still have the clipping at home. I can't go.
    
    Jeff