Sunday, June 26, 2022, WSCA Show, Roma Lodge, Racine, WI

The Wisconsin Sports Collectors Association (WSCA) hit a rough patch last year when their long-time venue, Gonzaga Hall, was sold by the Milwaukee Archdiocese. I was a regular dealer at Gonzaga Hall for 20 years and was absolutely in love with everything about that show. It was the best! 

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. WSCA president Keith Kilps worked his tail off searching for a new venue. He wanted to keep the show near Gonzaga in West Allis, WI. The only place he was able to find nearby was the Buenavista Banquet Hall and he started operating shows there last year.

I was probably the only person who liked Buenavista. I thought it was easy to get to. I really liked their steak tacos. Most importantly, my sales were excellent. 

Others complained that it was too small and the aisles were too tight. I did notice a significant drop in the amount of customers from Gonzaga to Buenavista. Then Keith had all sorts of problems with the owners of Buenavista and shut down the show after the November 2021 show.

Having searched for Milwaukee locations to hold a card show in the past, I can empathize with Keith's struggle to find a new location. Most locations want too much money for the space. A card show promoter can't pay $10K for a room and charge dealers $300 to $500 to set up for a few hours and be successful.

After that November show, I really missed the WSCA shows. Not only because I really like Keith and the crew but my sales and purchases were always excellent at the WSCA shows. I have not been able to find a suitable replacement for the WSCA shows.

So when the news came out that a new venue was found, I was overjoyed. WSCA member Paul Costanzo contacted me and said the show is moving to the Roma Lodge in Racine, WI. Paul and WSCA member John Gehring both belong to the Roma Lodge, an Italian-American club. John's been talking about this place for years.

Paul sent me the WSCA show schedule for 2022. They planned to hold shows every other month with the first one in April. Unfortunately, that April show ran up against the Orland Park show which is now one of my best shows. So I had to miss the WSCA's April show, which I heard was excellent.

The next WSCA show was set for June 26 -- my schedule was clear! Paul told me the Lodge was going to have a concession stand with meatball sandwiches and Italian sausage bombers. Oh my! Two of my favorite things in the world to eat!!

As a result, I did not care that there was a card show on June 26. I was just going to stuff my face with meatball sandwiches and Italian sausage bombers.

My wife's car was still loaded up from the Madison show on Saturday. I added four display cases Sunday morning and few boxes of cards. It was nice to be able to sleep in a little bit because I live just 40 minutes south of Racine, as opposed to the two-hour drive to Madison.

I plugged the address of the Roma Lodge into my GPS and was there in no time, around 8 a.m. I saw Dave Kania loading in and parked near Dave. I saw Keith as I entered into the large, beautiful room. The Roma Lodge is swanky. Keith pointed to four tables near the front. These tables looked larger than the ones I had at both Buenavista and Gonzaga. I did not bring enough stuff! I need to bring more inventory next time!!

I placed out all of my binders and the four display cases that I filled up with oddball cards like Exhibits and Red Man's along with my doubles, as I am saving my regular display case inventory for the National. One of the nice things about this show is that Keith does not allow customers into the room before 9 a.m. so dealers can set up unaccosted.

Although, this was my first time at the Roma Lodge, I felt like I was at home, seeing Keith, his family, all the auction guys, John, and the group of dealers I have known for decades. It sure was nice.

While I was setting up, old friend Dan Salemme came over! What a sight for sore eyes! I can't remember the last time I saw Dan. I was just talking about Dan with our mutual friend Lou a few months ago at the Woodstock show where Lou told me he grew up with Dan and has known him since they were kids.

I met Dan years ago at the Fred Copp card shows in the Chicago suburbs. A nice guy. A great sports fan who is extremely knowledgeable. He always has a tremendous selection of publications at really good prices. His son was helping him out at the Roma Lodge and they had some real neat stuff on their tables. Our mutual pal, Donny, was having a field day over there. Donny also bought some ABA cards from me. Thanks Don! 

I also saw a pre-War collector, who I have not seen since Gonzaga. Of course, I can't remember his name. He reminded me that he purchased many T201's from me at Gonzaga. Unfortunately, I did not bring any T201's to the Roma Lodge.

I saw a bunch of my regular customers. One purchased my Red Man Nellie Fox. I saw David Ramsey, who I see everywhere, from Strongsville to Rosemont. David purchased my 1933 Goudey Lefty O'Doul.

I saw Steve, from Jim and Steve's Card Shop in Waukegan, IL, my favorite card shop. Steve really liked the new venue and wide aisles. I appreciated the distance from my tables to the auction, which was not a problem at Buenavista but I was awfully close to the auction at Gonzaga.

Admittedly, I was not a fan of the auction at Gonzaga but I was actually really happy to see it happen again. I realize now that the WSCA auction is one of those things that makes me feel at home after setting up next to them, month after month, year after year, then all of the sudden no show, no auction. It was good to be back!! 

My old pal Bill from Antioch was there and we made a cash and trade deal where I ended up with some Batman pins from 1966. Cool stuff!

Early on, I saw Dobi Maxwell, who was set up near me, walk out of the bar with a meatball sandwich. I bolted for the bar and met Guy, the bartender, who made me a sandwich loaded with meatballs, sauce, on a fresh Italian roll. Oh my! That thing was just as advertised! Delicious!! The perfect breakfast!! Later, I went back for an Italian sausage bomber that was equally as delicious. I have to admit, that the best Italian bombers were made by my little Italian mother-in-law, Rosie Gulotta, who left this world 20 years ago. She was so sweet and the best Italian cook I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.

While I was munching on that last sandwich, a guy ran out of the bar and told me he is a huge fan of this blog! Thank you so much!! I receive so many kind words about this blog, I am so appreciative. I probably would have stopped doing it years ago if you guys weren't so supportive! Thank you!!

Now, I would like to see some more support for this new show at the Roma Lodge. I see great things for this show! We just need to increase attendance. There were dozens of dealers with excellent inventory. One thing that is unique about the WSCA shows is that there are more dealers with publications and memorabilia than at any other show I attend. This one was no exception. Lots of neat stuff in the room.

The next WSCA show at the Roma Lodge is scheduled for August 21. Unfortunately, I cannot make that one as it goes up against Orland Park again. Though, I highly recommend attending the WSCA show on August 21. I will be set up at the following WSCA show on October 23.

A big thank you to Keith and all the WSCA volunteers for putting on an excellent show. I hope to grow with you guys at this new space!

In the meantime, my show in Oak Creek is growing like a weed! Eighty-four dealers lined up for Saturday, July 2nd. This is going to be a phenomenal show!!

Then on Sunday, July 3, I am setting up at the Holiday Inn in Janesville, which is another excellent show.

Come on out next weekend!!!

Below is a photo of a guy wearing an awesome St. Louis Browns Satchel Paige jersey, Sunday at the Roma Lodge show.

Saturday, June 25, 2022. Sheraton Hotel, Madison, WI

Man, it sure was nice having Dave pick me up and drive me to the show last month. Dave said he might set up again in Madison in the fall. I was back to driving my wife's car. I would like to start visiting some local car dealerships and purchase a car but I just can't find the free time right now. I continue to be without a car.

So, there I was, on the road to Madison at 6 a.m. The drive was difficult because I was battling a cold. My son brought home a cold from summer school this past week for me and my family. At least it wasn't COVID, but I was not feeling very well.

I arrived at the hotel at 8 a.m. Load in was tough because it was raining. There is an overhang by the front doors of the hotel but only a few cars can fit in there. I parked just outside the overhang and enjoyed a second shower while loading in.

After moving my car, I stopped at the hotel's faux Starbucks for some coffee and a little breakfast which included bacon and sausages. I munched on the food while I was setting up.

I brought out all of the binders after doing display cases last month. I observed that attendance was much better than last month. I had a nice number of guys digging through the binders early on.

One customer started going through my binders while I was setting up. The show does not open until 9 a.m. but some customers like to arrive early. This guy arrived the same time I did at 8 a.m. I would think he would want to get to the show when all of the dealers are set up instead of walking around while they are trying to set up. Customers who arrive early are really a nuisance to the dealers. I, for one, would like to finish setting up before customers start going through the binders. I know other dealers feel the same way.

When customers start going through the binders or ask to see cards in my display cases before I finish setting up it causes a huge delay in set up and I feel like I lose sales because all of my cards are not out yet. Sometimes I tell customers that I am not open yet and they should come back when I finish setting up.

I have tried in the past arriving at shows extra early so I can set up before the early birds arrive but I have found that there are early, early birds who seemingly spend the night in the show room because they spring out of nowhere and start going through my stuff no matter what time I arrive at the show.

I have even resorted to leaving some stuff at home that I know the early birds like so I can avoid them and freely set up without distraction.

Back to my Madison early bird. I have known this guy for years and he was actually my first customer ever in Madison back in the day and I appreciate that he continues to buy from me, so I let him go.

He is a talker! He has lots of stories, lots of memories to share. It is hard for me to engage while I am setting up, so I was not all that talkative. He did end up buying a bunch of cards, which I did appreciate. He now comes with his son, who bought some cards as well.

A guy wearing a Jay Cutler Bears Jersey pulled out quite a few football cards. His buddy was wearing a USFL hat and, like his buddy, he pulled out a bunch of football cards. One of my regular customers pulled a stack of 1975 Topps baseball.

I was glad to see that I sold some hockey and basketball cards. I was not sure if I have ever brought out those binders to this show. So, the morning was pretty steady with guys pulling cards from the binders. By noon, things started to slow which gave me time to walk around. 

Nice amount of dealers in both the room on the first floor and the room on the second floor, where my tables were located. I saw a nice amount of vintage spread out between both floors. I was surprised at the amount of pre-War cards. Much of it was not priced. I usually take a pass when I don't see a price.

The day went by quick. As I was starting to think about packing up, Tom Smith sat down and went through a number of binders. Tom has bought from me before at this show but this was the first time we had an opportunity to chat. I learned that he raised his family in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. I told Tom that I was real familiar with Glen Ellyn having covered it as a reporter for the Daily Herald Newspaper. Turns out Tom worked for the Daily Herald as well, just a few years before me.

Tom is retired now and moved to Madison to be near his kids and grandkids. He is a regular at the Madison card show and is working on a number of vintage baseball sets. He purchased some 1968's, 1971's and two large piles of 1972's. Thanks Tom!

Also, the dealer set up behind me, Mark, was kind enough to purchase more cards from me. Mark is upgrading some sets and found a few cards in my binders.

Overall, sales were down, even though attendance was up. I think the problem is many of my binders are bare. I just can't keep up with the demand! I was hoping to have my 1979 Topps Football binder reloaded but this head cold slowed me down. I should have it ready to go for Oak Creek and Janesville this upcoming weekend.

I am probably going to start reloading my 1961 Topps baseball binder next. I am not sure when I will have that one done. Hopefully soon!

On the buying front, I was offered a box of 1957 Topps and 1962 Topps baseball. The '57's had a handful of stars and some of the tough semi-high series. The 1962's had some high numbers. The seller wanted $500. I would have been a buyer at $300. The seller said he would bring the box back to the next Madison show and add some more cards to try and entice me. I just may do it next month. 

A dealer, who knows I live in a Chicago suburb, tried to sell me some Chicago Bears refrigerator magnets. I was not interested. I pretty much restrict my buying and selling to vintage cards and don't wander much outside this area. I really don't know what I would do with a bunch of William Perry refrigerator magnets (pun does not go unnoticed).

Not much else to report. I had a really nice day. I had some down time and enjoyed chatting with Mark, Gary, Vince and Beau.

I had taken some Day Quill in the morning but it had worn off by the afternoon and I was not feeling well.  The drive home took a little longer, about 2 hours and 15 minutes. I was beat when I got home and passed out.

When I awoke, I saw a message from Beau, the promoter, who told me he had a problem with a dealer regarding a card that a customer accidentally left at that dealer's table. The customer contacted the dealer to ask him to hold onto the card. Apparently, the dealer sold the card and refused to compensate the customer. Not cool!

UPDATE: The dealer did eventually compensate the original owner of the card but was apparently a big jerk about it.

Folks leave stuff at my table all the time. I always hold onto it until it is claimed. I actually have a box of stuff people have left at my Oak Creek show. I am just holding onto it until it is claimed. 

So this happens, customers leave stuff at your table. Dealers have a responsibility to hold onto these items. Don't sell them! Return them to the customer!! Beau said this dealer is banned from future shows. Thankfully, he does not set up at my show.

Sheesh!

I was set up in Racine on Sunday. Racine blog coming soon.

Reminder: Big Ass Show coming up Saturday in Oak Creek with 84 dealers and 126 tables. I am also setting up in Janesville on Sunday which is also a good sized show. Hope to see you this weekend!

One last note, I noticed a larger number than usual of visits to this website. I had 890 in the past week. I usually have around 600. Welcome! Thanks for visiting!

Below are several more photos from Saturday's Madison show. 

Saturday, June 18, 2022, Chicago Sports Spectacular, Rosemont, IL

I think we were all dragging by Saturday. It had been a long week with set up on Wednesday and two very long days on Thursday and Friday. 

I think I mentioned this in my March blog, the folks that now run the Sports Spectacular provide doughnuts and coffee for all of the dealers which is much appreciated. I partook in the coffee all three days but doughnuts just on Friday and Saturday. 

Once again, I spent the morning rearranging my display cases to fill all of the empty spots. My pal Mike Slinkman came by a few times to show me some cards while I was filling the cases. Thanks for your patience Mike! In the new space, I was able to place out more 1970's football cards.

On the buying front, I looked at quite a few cards on Saturday, more willing to buy, but everything was a tad too high. I don't buy anything unless I feel I can make a profit on it down the road. Most of the cards I looked at on Saturday were extremely low grade. I can sell cards that are creased, water logged and have paper loss but I do not sell them for much and need to purchase them dirt cheap. One group I regret not offering more money was a binder of 1954 Dan Dee cards. Tough cards to find in any shape. This group was in brutal shape but just based on the scarcity, I should have offered more. As a result, I did not end up buying anything on Saturday. 

I did get a chance to walk around because sales were slow. There was nice number of vintage dealers in the room. Far more than I realized because customers all week were complaining that there were not more vintage dealers. I thought there  was a pretty good selection.

PWCC was set up by the concession stand. I was glad they were far from us because they have been terrible neighbors at the National. Other auction houses I saw were Pristine and Memory Lane. I was surprised there were not more auction houses. I saw the Beckett booth. I wanted to stop but they were very busy. 

No PSA or SGC. A couple of the newer grading companies were there but I am not comfortable grading cards with these newbies.

Seemed like most of the dealers were busy. There were a few dealers with absolute junk and I don't understand how they make a buck. I saw one artist selling paintings that depicted pennants. There were quite a few autograph dealers. Some supply guys. Overall, I thought it was a nice selection.

Saturday was my slowest day for sales but I still had a few and was happy to take home some cash. Overall, sales were a little more than half of my March show which is actually better than I expected. I think I may continue setting up at this summer show. I hope to set up at their November show. The folks that run the show kept asking for dealers to turn in their contracts for the November show, claiming it will sell out.

I am not so sure the November show will sell out because they are upping their table fee from $375 to $450. Kevin and PJ want to come back. Dave is on the fence. I would like to set up at the November show. We need to figure this out and get our contract in.

It is kind of grueling doing these three-day shows. I am still wiped out.

I had a really nice Father's Day on Sunday. My mom and dad picked me and my son up and we went to the flea market in Wilmot, Wisconsin, to walk around. 

No rest for the weary! I am back at it on Saturday, June 25, for the Madison show at the Sheraton. Then Sunday I am setting up for the first time at the Roma Lodge in Racine, WI. It will be a binder weekend after a week of display cases in Rosemont. I need to price a ton of cards to get those display cases ready for the National. I am finishing up my 1979 Topps football binder for this weekend. I might bring out a few display cases to the Roma Lodge where I have a lot of table space. It will be a game-time decision.

Overall, I did enjoy myself in Rosemont. The show was better than expected. Far more dealers than I expected. Attendance was better as well. I am looking forward to the November show.

Reminder, my Oak Creek Show is coming up July 2. I am up to 83 dealers. I do have space for a few more tables. If you are interested in setting up, you would have to bring your own table because the venue does not have enough to go around. Contact me soon if you want to set up.

Below are a few photos I snapped on Saturday at the Sports Spectacular.

Pictured above is JD's booth. I am surprised he was able to get away on Thursday where he spent an hour or so at my booth purchasing a pile of cards. A real nice guy. He operates a show in Columbus, OH. It is tough to find a better vintage dealer than JD. 

Pictured above, left to right, Kevin, PJ, Tony and Dave. We'll see you at the Oak Creek show on July 2nd!

Friday, June 17, 2022, Chicago Sports Spectacular, Rosemont, IL

For Day 2 of the Sports Spectacular, I brought out another display case, having some extra space. I parked my wife's car in the convention center parking garage and forgot my phone in the car, so no photos.

I was the first to arrive at the booth. I took off the tarps from my display cases then proceeded to organize them. I like to fill in all of the empty spots in the cases each morning. I had quite a few empty spots thanks to JD. 

With the new space, I was able to place out all of my 1970's baseball cards. In the new case, I placed out most of my hockey cards. 

While I was reloading the cases, a customer I recognized from previous Rosemont shows pulled out some 1958 Topps baseball for his set. Nice way to start off the day! Then I saw a guy I recognize from Orland but have forgotten his name. He was with a buddy and they both purchased a handful of cards.

Sales were much steadier on Day 2. I honestly can't remember what I sold but do remember that most customers seemed to be from St. Louis, Cleveland and Minneapolis -- which is the thing I love about the Rosemont shows, meeting all these customers from all over the country (well largely the Midwest at this one).

The goofy guys who wore the fake wigs and mustaches were back. This time, no costumes. They looked normal and chatted me up. I was surprised that they were very knowledgeable about cards. I wanted to ask them why they were wearing wigs yesterday but could not seem to get it out. I had to stop myself from saying: "What the $#@& is a matter with you?" I am a little concerned that they took my business card. I really do not need any more weirdos calling me.

No buys on Friday. Like, Thursday, I was not in a buying mood.

Not a whole lot to report from Friday. I had a lot more customers purchase cards than Thursday, but the day seemed to drag and drag. I arrived at the show around 9:30 a.m. and left at 8 p.m. It was a long, long, day. Too long! They need to end these shows at 6 p.m., not 8 p.m.

I ate several $50 hot dogs from the concession stand. On one trip to the concession stand, Mark, who sets up behind me at the Madison show, shouted to me from across the room. I walked over to his booth where he told me he sold a gaggle of complete vintage sets for $33K. He told me he texted a picture of the pile of money to his wife, who responded that she was going out to buy a car. I need a car too! Maybe Mark can adopt me.

My good friend Dave was having a lousy morning selling cards on Friday. After just $40 in sales, he moved his display cases over to the empty table next to us and proceeded to sell a large number of cards. I guess that spot at the end of PJ's section was really bad. Next time, I think Dave will purchase his own table so he can be in the aisle. His set up does not work unless he is in the aisle. He was much happier by the afternoon. Nice to see!

The coolest thing to happen on Friday was when Rollie Fingers walked over to Andrew's table and purchased his most expensive Pokémon card. Rollie bought the card for his grandson. Kevin walked over and asked Rollie if he could send him a program to have signed. Rollie gave him his address. What a cool guy! I really enjoyed watching him as a kid, especially with those amazing Oakland A's teams.

There were a ton of autograph guests all weekend. I never really pay attention because I am there to sell cards. I find the constant announcements regarding the guests very annoying. The announcements are so loud that you have to stop your conversation and continue once the announcement is over.

Reminder, my next Oak Creek show is on July 2. I may have a few dealer spaces available. I have been contacting waiting list dealers for the past week or so. Most don't seem to respond. If you are interested in setting up in Oak Creek, you will have to bring your own table because the Sal does not have enough tables to go around. Let me know if you are interested.

Day 3 blog on its way....

Thursday, June 16, 2022, Chicago Sports Spectacular, Rosemont, IL

This was my first time set up at the summer Sports Spectacular. I've gone as a customer and always thought it was a lousy show because there were not a whole lot of dealers and customers. However, after having a great show at the March Sports Spectacular, I decided to give this one a try. My expectations were low.

The Sports Spectacular started for me on Tuesday night when I loaded 11 display cases and my cart into my wife's car. I loaded my cards into the car on Wednesday morning then went to work. I arrived at the Stephens Convention Center around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday for early set up.

The show was located on the ground floor in the space across the lobby from where the National is normally held. I was able to drive my car right into the show room and park. This was probably my easiest load into a Stephens Center show ever.

Boothmates PJ and Kevin were already there setting up.  Dealer set up began at 2 p.m. on Wednesday and we were one of the few dealers at the early set up. We decided to set up our tables in an upside-down W. I was able to get out all 11 display cases. Normally, I would have sat there for an hour or so and loaded up the display cases, but it was a steam bath inside and outside the convention center. I could not take the heat and humidity and called it a day at about 3:30 p.m.

On the first day of the show on Thursday, I arrived around 11 a.m. after going into work earlier that morning. Thankfully, it was not quite as hot inside the venue as Wednesday, and I was able to load all the display cases with cards in relative comfort.

Dave beat us all there on Thursday and picked out a spot at the end of PJ's section of our booths. Kevin was located at the far end of our booths and had an interesting array of stuff. He bought out a dealer from Tennessee at the March Sports Spectacular and had just an odd array of singles, supplies, photos and T-shirts.

I bought a stack of postcard sleeves that he was only selling for a buck per pack. I think I paid five bucks a pack at the Strongsville show. He also had a stack of 1989 Chicago Cubs Division Champions bumper stickers that he sold to me ridiculously cheap.

PJ had the middle section and filled it with binders and display cases. He seemed to be doing a brisk business on the first day.

The show opened to VIP's at 1 p.m. which was an absolute waste of time. Hardly any VIP's roamed the room and sales were few and far between. We basically just sat around until 3 p.m. when the general admissions were allowed in. Still the crowd was light, but I was able to make some sales.

One customer came by three or four times before he purchased three 1933 Goudeys. I sold a couple of 1934 Goudeys to another customer. I saw Scott and met his son Brandon. They purchased my 1950 Bowman Vic Raschi which I had just priced before the show.

A customer from Highland Park, Illinois, purchased a bunch of 1957 Topps football cards. A couple of guys who bought from me back in March, purchased some cards again. One guy flew in again from Los Angeles. He is a reseller and was looking for cards he could flip. He found a few to his liking. The other guy was from Fort Wayne, Indiana, and is working on a bunch of football sets. He purchased a few 1955 Topps All Americans.

I had a few guys from Cleveland working on some Browns team sets. I was able to add a few cards to their collections.

The buyer of the day was JD, a dealer from Indiana, who purchased a large pile of stuff. Thanks JD! Without him, it would have been a rough first day. I seemed to sit around a lot. The show kind of dragged. 

Though, I ran into a bunch of good friends. Like Jim Z., the other Jim, and Al from Milwaukee. Jim called and asked if I could get him in the show. He called during one of the rare moments I was helping customers. He later found an unattended door and just walked in.

Al is having hip surgery and the guys won't be traveling to the National, a rare miss for Jim Z., who has attended almost all of the Nationals.

I was really happy to see old friend Larry Burger, who I only see at the big shows these days. Back in the day when I was setting up weekly with Fred Copp, Larry was at most of those shows. He bought my T206 Cobb years ago and said the card is doing just fine in his collection. He told me he is focusing more on autographs these days than cards.

Larry went to college with the show's founder George Johnson and they played on the Elmhurst College baseball team together. Larry still plays in a 55-plus league. George was set up down the aisle. He bought a 1961 Topps Ron Santo rookie from me and I thanked him for treating me so well back in the day.

Derrick and his wife were set up behind me. They set up at my Oak Creek show and said they did really well at the Spectacular. They were only set up on Thursday, filling in for a friend who originally purchased the tables. I guess the friend was unable to set up. His tables sat empty the rest of the show.

I observed that there were quite a few empty tables. The spot next to me was empty. On the other side of the empty table was Andrew, who sets up at my Oak Creek show and sells Pokémon. Behind us was Greg from Milwaukee who has set up at my show in the past. He operates a card shop so it is difficult for him to get Saturdays off to set up at my show. Next to Greg was a young guy who arrived rather late each day. Next to the young guy was Mitch who runs the Schererville, Indiana, show and also has a shop out there. Nice guy. I had set up at his very first show and have been unable to make it back out there.

He told me that one of his high school teachers was Jim from the Orland show. He also said Jim was his high school wrestling coach. Mitch said Jim was the best teacher. I can believe it.

I saw a few other people I know like Derek from Orland and Mike S. But I was surprised I did not see more people I knew. A couple of guys recognized me from the Madison show but I hardly saw anyone I knew from Milwaukee, Rockford and Orland. Where were you guys?

On the buying front, I picked up two 1966 Topps Mickey Mantles, a 1967 Topps Mantle, a 1968 Topps Mantle, a 1965 Topps Home Run Leaders with Mantle, a 1957 Topps Don Drysdale and a 1970 Topps Roberto Clemente from Junior. Those cards cost a pretty penny and I lost my interest in buying any more cards after that purchase.

Now for the "Stranger Things" portion of the blog. I don't know why but I always see some strange shite at these Rosemont shows. There is this one crazy guy who only comes to this show and will talk your ear off with weird stuff and want everything at a deep, deep discount. 

He avoided my booth because I did not have any cheapy stuff. PJ, on the other hand, had to deal with him all weekend. He loved PJs binders. Though, one day he did pull out a bunch of cards only to refuse to buy them once he learned the price. I can't stand this guy and have seen him for years. He told me in the past that he does not own a car and only attends the shows in Rosemont because he can get there via the "L" train.

But even weirder than this guy, were two guys wearing wigs and fake mustaches. They were drinking heavily and acting real goofy. They freaked me out. Why wear a disguise to the show? Who does that?

I think I was the only one disturbed by them. No one else seemed to care that these guys were wearing wigs and fake mustaches. I am still freaked out. That was quite abby normal.

Not much else to report from that first day. Business was generally slow. Attendance was low. I was surprised at the large number of dealers. There were more dealers than I had ever seen at the summer show.

As I said, the day really dragged on. Having the show end at 8 p.m. is way too late. It should end at 6 p.m.

​I did enjoy sitting around with Dave, PJ and Kevin. I know Kevin from my Oak Creek show. He regularly sets up with Tom D. He had some great stories from fishing to hanging out with former Major Leaguer Larry Hisle. 

We were all beat by the end of the day. Dave took off first around 7:30 p.m. I hit the road home around 8 p.m. PJ and Kevin took off shortly after I went home where I ordered a few pizzas. I Tried to watch TV with my wife and kids but fell asleep early.

That is about all from Day 1. Day 2 blog coming soon!

Pictured below is my view of the dull scene from Day 1 of the summer Sports Spectacular. PJ's display cases are located on the left. My display cases are on the right and saw nothing but crickets most of that first day.

Sunday, June 12, 2022, Civic Center, Orland Park, IL

Day 2 with the Elantra. I was able fit into the Elantra my bins of hockey and basketball binders along with four boxes of publications along with all the bins from yesterday. No space for a cart. I hate not being able to bring a cart because it is always a battle for the carts between dealers at the Civic Center in Orland Park.

Damn road construction still going on the 294 from O'Hare on down. Though, I made it to Orland relatively quick, about 40 to 45 minutes. Once there, I was amazed that the baseball diamonds behind the Civic Center were filled with games at 7:45 a.m. I don't remember games that early when I was a kid.

I was able to snag the lone large green cart which enables me to bring in everything at one shot. Again, no breakfast and I was little weak and had trouble getting the heavy bins of binders off the cart. 

I saw Jeff and Carl while loading in. I think they got a chuckle out of my struggles. Jeff came over to help. He is a good guy that Jeff T. He was set up out in the front hallway by the entrance. Carl was in his usual spot across from me. Carl said his grandson Damen, was set up in Schaumburg. The Schaumburg show coincided with Orland this month. Joe could not get his usual date on the first Sunday of the month. How did the Schaumburg show go? Anyone attend? I'm setting up there in July.

Back at Orland, Dennis and Mike took Cigar's tables and were set up next to Carl. Second day in a row Mike beat me to the show! They spent the night at a hotel in Orland. Dennis told me he forced Mike to get up early. 

Terry had two tables next to me. On the other side were some new modern dealers. Nick, who used to be my regular neighbor, told me he was set up across the room. Nick took some of my Oak Creek flyers and placed them on his table. Thanks Nick!

Across from me were modern dealers Casey and Tom. I am pretty sure these guys have been setting up in Orland as long as I have.... twenty-something years. 

Ran into Jim first thing who told me he purchased another 1954 Topps baseball set. He offered me the Kaline and the yellow background Ted Williams. I did not really have any money. I spent it all in Rockford yesterday. Also, the condition was off on the cards and I did not see room for profit at Jim's price, but I do appreciate the offer. Jim has given me an incredible amount of good deals over the years. Jim is the man!

It was warm in the room and I began to sweat while setting up. It is always fun to put out all of the binders. I added a couple of non-sports binders for the Orland show because my good customer Pat had requested them. Two and a half tables filled with binders looks really cool. I had an extra half table of space that I filled with publications, mostly Sport Magazines from the 1950's and 1960's. I usually sell a few publications when I bring them to the Orland show. I saw quite a few customers digging through them but I ended up not selling any. I am not sure when I'll bring those out again. It is discouraging when I don't sell any.

I thought the show was well attended but traffic at my tables was kind of slow. Gil bought a pile of 1966 Topps baseball. Andy purchased some cards. A few other regulars dinked around and pulled some cards. My main man Will purchased my 1958 Mantle along with some 1969 Topps football and some 1972 Topps baseball. Thanks Will! I also gotta thank Will for bringing me some coffee and some Mickey D's. Will and his son Joe are the best!

Our buddy Paul hung out with us all day, just like old times. Both Will and Paul had on Three Stooges T-shirts. I love these guys!!

My good friend Rick usually purchases a lot of cards. Though, he also brings me returns. I am not a fan of returns. In my view, you have all the time in the world to analyze the card before you make the purchase and you have a responsibility to look over the card before you purchase it. I do make mistakes and I may not catch something on the card when I am grading and pricing them, so I will take returns but I just do not like it. I rarely, if ever, return a card. I just suck it up if I find some flaw later on and I think others should do the same.

Pat was my big winner, once again. He purchased piles of stuff. Thanks Pat! Both Pat and Will made my show. Without those guys, I would have had a bad show but thanks to their generosity, I had a very good show.

This was a rare Orland show where I did not buy anything. I turned a few things down. Paul and I made a trade. I am not a big fan of trades but I will do it for Paul, who is my brother from another.

Road construction traffic on the way home was horrible! Only 40 minutes to the show but an hour and half home. Ugh!  

So I won't be at the July Orland show because it is scheduled the same weekend as the National but I will return for the August show. I hope to have some more binders reloaded by the August show.

Next up is the Sports Spectacular at the Stephens Center in Rosemont, Illinois, on June 16  through 18. I am setting up with Dave, PJ and Kevin. We are in booths 44, 45 and 46. I am bringing out display cases. Hope to see you later in the week in Rosemont!

Reminder, next Oak Creek show is July 2 -- be there or be square!

Saturday, June 11, 2022, Rock Church, Rockford, IL

I am still without a car. I am hoping to have one by the end of the summer. I want to stuff some cash away before I make a purchase. I appreciate all the advice I have been receiving on purchasing a car. 

I have been driving my wife's car but I think she is starting to lose patience. I had to rent a car this weekend because she needed her car on Sunday. The price of car rentals has gone way up. Ugh! I am probably going to rent a car again for the weekend of July 9 when I booked a show in Fort Wayne, Indiana. I may cancel some other July shows because it is just too expensive to rent a car every weekend. 

It was really nice to have a car this past weekend! I rented a Hyundai Elantra. Small car. Great gas mileage. I loaded up Friday night and was able to fit all of my baseball and football binder bins in the car. There was not enough room for a cart. Luckily, John and Mike provide a number of carts for the dealers at the Rock Church.

I filled up with gas at $5.95 a gallon by my house Friday. I only put in $20 which got me just over a quarter tank, enough to get out to Rockford where gas is much cheaper. It took about an hour from my house to get to the Rock Church, which is about average.

My tables were located back up against the back wall, between Tom and Dave. It was nice to see Tim back. I was also glad to see my buddy Phil, who has had some health problems lately. Skip was set up next to Phil, as usual. Dennis and Mike were set up for the first time at this show.

I was amazed that Mike arrived before I did -- a first! Mike owns as bar up in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and has to close up the bar at 2 or 3 a.m. then get up at 5 or 6 a.m. to get on the road to the show. Understandably, he is never on time to the shows. I don't know how he beat me to Rockford!

I also saw good buddies Gary and Scotty P. who were both set up again this month. As I was loading in, I saw Beau, the promoter of the Madison show who did not like my St. Louis Cardinals T-shirt. Beau is as huge Cubs fan. Also, Phil, did not like the shirt. I did come across a few Cardinals fans who gave me some support.

I am a baseball fan. I will wear a shirt representing any team. 

Speaking of St. Louis, my first customer of the day was a Cardinals fan I met years ago when I used to regularly set up in St. Louis. He told me he and his wife were looking for a day trip and his wife found the Rock Church show online and they decided to spend the weekend in Rockford -- just my luck! He purchased a couple piles of cards for his sets. Nice way to start off the show!

I have a nice solid group of regulars at this show and they all showed up for me and I am extremely grateful! Like every show, attendance was down but I still hit my average for sales thanks to this great group of guys. Thank you everyone!!!

                                          IT AINT OVER TILL IT IS OVER

I think I am going to call it -- the great COVID card boom is over. It was fun while it lasted but we are definitely back to the pre-COVID card boom pattern where card shows die down in the spring. My sales are still solid so I will probably keep setting up most weekends for the rest of the year. But I think, going into next year, I will probably cut back and drop some of the shows where sales are slow. It will be nice to sleep in a few weekends.

Back at the Rock Church show, I had an unexpectedly nice day buying cards. My best buying day in Rockford to date. I have to give an assist to Mike, who regularly looks out for me. Thanks Mike! He set me up with another vendor who was selling a binder of cards that had all sorts of stuff like 1964 Topps Giants, a number of Milwaukee Braves cards from the 1950's, a nice group of lower grade 1953 Topps baseball commons, and a mixture of cards from 1967 through 1972, including a few tough high numbers. Nice group of stuff. Probably the best card in the binder was a '64 Topps Giants Mantle.

The seller originally wanted $500. I figured I could sell the cards for about $350 and offered $250. After shopping the binder around, the seller took my offer. Then I purchased a small box of cards from the 1970's for just 20 bucks from a guy who I have known for years, but of course, have forgotten his name. He is originally from Berwyn, Illinois, and recently moved out to the Rockford area. I thought it funny that while I was buying those cards, another good customer was sitting at my table pulling cards and he too is originally from Berwyn and now lives in Ottawa, Illinois. I don't blame those guys for moving out to the country. I'm ready to go myself!

I capped off my purchases by buying a small box of 1954 Topps baseball for $100 from Terry Hatch. Altogether, I had a nice haul!

On the food front, my good buddy Dave McDonald brought me a ham sandwich which I gobbled up early on. I get light-headed when I skip breakfast, as I did on this morning, due to low blood sugar. Damn diabetes. That sammich put everything back in focus. Thanks Dave!

Then the highlight of my day was the food truck serving Mexican delights. I had three al pastor tacos and they were delicious!!

I made sure to get some gas at Casey's on my way out of town. At $5.49 a gallon, I was able to fill up the Elantra for 60 bucks. That tank of gas lasted me the drive home, to and from Orland the next day, and the drive to the rental place on Monday morning.

So no show at the Rock Church in July which is why I booked Fort Wayne on July 9. I just noticed a new show scheduled for July 9 at the Skyline Room in Rosemont, Illinois. Back in the 1990's, the Skyline Room hosted some of the best shows around. It is kind of cool to see someone resurrecting that place for card shows. I don't know the promoter but he has some nice signers in Dick Butkus and Dan Hampton.

Unfortunately, I won't be cancelling Fort Wayne. I hate to cancel once I reserve space. Plus, I really want to set up in Fort Wayne as it has been years since I was last there. I am also concerned that this new show won't bring in much traffic. I don't know if any more shows are planned for the Skyline Room, but if they are, I just may set up there eventually. I would like to see that show get established before I jump in.

As I stated previously, I was set up in Orland on Sunday. Orland blog coming soon.

Next up for me is the Sports Spectacular in Rosemont on June 16 and running through June 18. I will be set up with Dave, PJ and Kevin in booths 44, 45 and 46. I am going to bring out display cases and should have some good stuff! Hope to see you this week in Rosemont!! 

Reminder: Next Oak Creek show is July 2nd. Mark your calendars!!

Pictured above and below are shots of my binders early in the morning in Rockford when things were slow. I had a nice run later in the morning.

Pictured above are my al pastor tacos from the food truck at the Rockford show. Oh my, those puppies were tasty!

Saturday, June 4, 2022, Salvation Army Community Center, Oak Creek, WI

Last month I had four no-shows and observed that I had space for at least four additional tables, so I started contacting dealers on my waiting list in early May. I was surprised by the number of dealers that did not respond at all after I contacted them. Why get on my waiting list if you don't want to set up at the show? Weird!

Then I had issues with several other dealers who did not want to bring their own tables. The venue only has 80 tables and I have space for 122, so I require all new dealers to bring their own tables. I eventually move them to a permanent table as time goes on but all new dealers need to bring their own tables or they can't set up at the show. 

I always get some prima donnas when I inform them that they have to bring their own table. What is the big deal? I don't make any one do anything that I don't do myself -- including bringing my own tables.

This table thing is always an issue. It takes several months, usually, for someone to go from waiting list to setting up at the show. I had trouble with one guy several months ago who emphatically did not want to go on the waiting list and demanded a spot at the show. He told me about how important of a dealer he is and blah, blah, blah. I told him that everyone has to start on the waiting list because it is the fairest way. It would not be fair to the guys who have been on the waiting list for months if I let Mr. Important jump the list and set up.

So for the next several months, Mr. Important contacted me and demanded a spot at the show. I told him each time that he needed to be patient and I would eventually get him a spot in the show. I contacted him for the June show and informed him that he needed to bring his own table. Apparently, Mr. Important is too important to bring his own table and he declined the space. Really?

I had one other guy who declined because he had to bring his own table. Now, this guy, used to set up at the show but then no-showed me a few years ago and I dropped him. He begged and begged so I put him on the waiting list. His name came up for June and he, too, declined because he had to bring his own table. I just don't get it?

Another waiting list dealer got testy with me when I told him there is no fee reduction for bringing your own table. I know that I am the cheapest game in town. I charge just 25 bucks for a table whether you bring your own or not. I also bring in anywhere from 300 to 600 people each and every show. You can't get this deal anywhere else! Why fight with me? You would not believe the number of guys who fight me on this.

I should really raise my table fee. A couple of regular dealers have suggested I do so and that they would be willing to pay more to set up at the show. Mark from the Sal had a great suggestion that I charge $35 for eight-footers and keep the $25 for six-footers. The Sal has maybe 20 or 30 eight-footers while the rest are six footers. 

I decided the fairest way to distribute the eight footers is to let the staff at the Sal set them up randomly. However, at each and every show some dealers complain that they did not receive eight-footers. Some have started to complain to Mark when the decision as to where the eight-footers go is mine. I like the way I have been doing it, I think it is fair. I might take Mark's suggestion and start charging more for the 8-footers.

Anyway, it took me a while to go down the waiting list and plug in some new dealers for the June show. I ended up with nine new dealers. I am always worried about whether the new dealers will actually show up. I am also always concerned as to whether they are going to be a pain in my butt.

All nine new guys showed up! They were also all extremely pleasant! Most were real appreciative and really enjoyed themselves. They are all coming back next month! I love when new dealers work out!!

I did have a couple minor issues. One dealer cancelled that morning because his wife went into labor. All I can say to that one is congrats mom and dad! Another dealer tried to reach me a week or so ago and I did not get a chance to call him back, so I was not surprised when he did not show up.

I had two guys not show up at all. No call, text, message. Nothing. They're out. I'm going to start adding more guys from the waiting list for the July 2nd show.

Then I flat out screwed up when I was distributing the name plates and figuring out where to place all the dealers prior to the show. I forgot to put someone on a pair of tables in the gym. I got to the venue at 5:30 a.m., after waking up at 4 a.m. I am just not fully functional at that hour. I also screwed up by failing to keep one of the doors open so my helper Paul Haney could get in. Paul stood outside for 45 minutes before I saw  him jumping up and down in front of the glass doors in the parking lot. Sorry Paul! I do appreciate Paul's help!!!

I think I did end up with 80 dealers total in the building, my largest total to date! All the dealers that brought their own tables did a great job setting them up and leaving enough space for an aisle in front and space for the other dealers to set up on their backs and sides. Thank you!!

It is a cluster%$^& to set this up! I am literally running from the minute I get into the building until I finish and open the doors for the dealers. Oh, I gotta complain about one more prima donna. I tell all the dealers that the doors open for load in at 8 a.m. because I never know when I'll finish setting up in the morning. I can't have the dealers coming in to the building while I am setting up. So I leave the doors locked. 

I had one new dealer cancel at the last minute because he said he needed more time to set up. What? I limit all the dealers to two tables max so I can fit more dealers into the show. It should not take more than an hour to load in and set up two tables. This guy is banned. Really?

Okay, those are all of my complaints/rants for the June show. The rest of the day went smoothly and was a lot of fun.

Sales kicked off strong at my tables. I brought out all of my baseball, football and hockey binders. After set up, Paul dug into those hockey binders. He also found a bunch of baseball cards for his sets. Thanks Paul! I mistakenly reported in my last Madison blog that Bruce purchased my '65 Maris. He only looked at it in Madison and made the purchase at the Oak Creek show. Thanks Bruce!

I brought out my 1962 Topps Baseball Wrapper for Steve, who made the purchase. Thanks Steve!

Dealer Tip: Get to know your customers and create a regular dialogue then you can go into the show knowing you are going to have a certain number of solid sales.

I had a number of dealers tell me their sales were off. We definitely had a decline in attendance from last month but we still had 375 people through the door. I was recently set up at show that had just 20 0r 30 people tops. With 375 customers in the building, there is no reason to have a bad show... unless you have lousy merchandise, your prices are too high or you just have a bad attitude.  

We all have bad shows. You can't win every time! When I have a bad show, I plan to change my set up for the next one and bring some stuff out that might spur some sales.

Though, I have to say, none of the guys that reported poor sales were upset about it. They all seemed to have a good time, regardless -- which is the right attitude to have. Change it up for next month!

I had many dealers report excellent sales. Back at my tables, sales were excellent early on then cooled off. I appreciate everyone who bought cards from me! Thank you!!

I noticed that we had a real nice crowd in the front hallway, the Game Room and Fellowship Hall. The gym might have had the lightest crowd I have ever seen in there. I am wondering why the crowd did not seem to make it into the gym? Crowd flow has always been an issue for me at this show. With four different rooms it is tough to get all the customers to visit each dealer in each room.

Putting each show together then spending most of my time at the show as a manger, is extremely time consuming. I am not a fan of having to manage the show. I wish I could be at my tables all day! My young friends Rachel and Jason do an excellent job watching my tables for me while I am away. Jason gave me a great assist on a purchase. Someone showed up at my table with a shoe box of vintage. Jason pointed me out to the seller and he came across the room to where I was chatting with some dealers, I then purchased a nice stack of cards at a great price, including Schmidt and Brett rookies.

I also purchased a 1954 Topps Al Kaline rookie from Jim, who drove up from Indiana to set up at the show. Thanks Jim! Then I purchased a stack from Jim from Milwaukee that including a 1958 Topps multiplayer card with Aaron. Thanks other Jim!

We had a really solid group of dealers in June. As you know, I love the vintage. My show regularly has double, even triple, the number of vintage dealers, than any other show I attend. This large number of vintage dealers draws in more vintage set builders than any other show as well. One dealer, in town from Florida to visit family, was shocked when I told him the amount of set builders we have at this show. Jim from Indiana saw it first hand. Guys all day long were showing me the cool vintage cards they purchased from him.

There is so much variety at this show. I love all the Pokemon dealers. Nice guys. I don't understand it but I think it is cool that they are able to do so well. Sal, one of my newer dealers, told me his biggest seller was super hero cards from the 1990's -- a trend I have noticed. 

Coolest thing I saw at the show was a giant bobble head of Giannis on Anthony Olivera's table. 

On the food front, I started my morning off right with a Sloppy Joe for breakfast. Tasty!

Okay, time to name drop... My pal Paul Ponce drove up from the south suburbs of Chicago. I love this guy. We've been friends a long time. Last spring and summer I purchased his collection. He gave me a really nice price, but, I knew he would be back. He is one of the most knowledgeable card guys I know. He told me he just purchased a collection and is back! Ha! I knew it!! I am the big winner because now I get to hang out with him more often. Thanks for coming to the show Paul and for buying cards from me!!

It is always great to see my friends George and Christy. George bought some cards from me and we are trying to figure out a day to go to a White Sox game in Chicago. George is an Astros fan. He was the guy wearing an Altuve jersey at the show. We'll probably go to a Sox-Astros game.

Then there are my friends Doreen and Craig, who purchased a bunch of cards from me. They always make sure I get a Sloppy Joe. They are going to be traveling this summer so I won't see them until the fall. Safe travels!

I also saw my old friend Ryan at the show. I met Ryan years ago at the Fred Copp shows then would also see him at the Orland shows. Then he flat out disappeared. Nice to see you Ryan!

Then I saw Ron Zacker, who sold me his dad Rich's collection about seven years ago. Rich was a regular at the Gonzaga show. Ron brought his son out to Oak Creek this past weekend and told me his son now collects cards. Nice folks and it was great to see them.

Along with talking to customers, I always enjoy chatting with all the dealers. I thought about having Rachel and Jason collect table fee for me at future shows but then I would miss out getting to commiserate with all the dealers. I have such a good crew here! It wouldn't be an Oak Creek show if dealer Jeremy did not give me a hard time. Plus, I captured my monthly Jeremy photo.

Dealer Scott P. was under the weather. He told me Monday he was feeling better. I can relate to ongoing health issues with this dang diabetes. 

Scotty Z. told me my helper Rachel was moving to her own apartment after the show. Scotty had a lot of dad concerns that I understand. We all think of our kids as babies but, in Scott's case, his baby girl has grown into an intelligent woman who will be just fine.

Someone asks me at every show whether Rachel is my daughter. I told Scott that I am just going to start telling everyone that she is my daughter. He said only if I want to pay her college tuition. So, please, everybody, make sure you know that Rachel is NOT my daughter.

Overall, a really nice day. I enjoyed getting to know Sal, who was set up next to me. I learned that he is a professor at DePaul University in Chicago. Cool stuff!

I had such a good time. Thank you everybody for all of your support! I get so many nice compliments about this blog. It is a nice outlet for me to rant and to write. I should have some interesting blogs coming up this summer as Dave and I head out to Atlantic City for the National.

In the meantime, my next Oak Creek show is on July 2. I thought a lot of my regular dealers would drop out for that one like last year but it looks like most of the regulars will be there. I will also have room for some new dealers, maybe five or six. Please respond if I contact you!

I am setting up Saturday, June 11, 2022, at the Rock Church in Rockford, then on Sunday in Orland Park. It will be a binder weekend. I brought out the '75 baseball binder newly reloaded to Oak Creek. One customer pointed out that the pages are tough to turn. I bought a brand new binder at Walmart that does not work very well. I'll try and find a new one before next weekend where I will also have my '75 Topps Minis binder newly reloaded.

Have a great week!

Pictured above is dealer Sal Barry who is a hockey nut. His table features mostly hockey cards.

Pictured above are two of my favorites -- Doreen and Craig. They collect everything. They purchased a bunch of vintage cards for their sets from me on Saturday. Thanks guys!

Monthly Jeremy photo! I'll be posting it to Facebook soon where it always gets likes and comments.

I had one of my better buying days at this past show. All these cards pictured above and below are part of my Oak Creek purchases from Saturday.