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5 QUESTIONS FOR ...
RAY MOZINGO
OLIVIA FORTSON, Staff
Writer
Charlotte Observer, January 19, 2007
The Clayton
promoter and his wife, Dot, run Inside Pitch
Promotions, which brings shows to Charlotte such
as the Toy, Hobby, Sportcard, NASCAR Show Saturday and
Sunday at Metrolina Expo. 7100 Statesville Road. $5
adults, $7 weekend pass, free for 15 and younger.
www.insidepitch.com; 919-553-4285.
How did you become interested in memorabilia? When I was
8 or 9 years old in the late 1950s, I began collecting
baseball and football cards for a few years - and then
got away from it for a long time. My interest was
renewed in the 1980s when my son started collecting
baseball cards. We did this together and I think I
enjoyed it more than he did.
What was your favorite toy, doll or sports item from
your childhood? My favorites are Western memorabilia
such as cap pistols, old Western comics, and anything
sports-related. I have seen several of these items at
the sportscard and toy shows. Because they are available
at the shows, I add to my collection more often than I
probably should.
If someone has memorabilia of possible value, what's
the best way to find out its worth? Price guides on all
kinds of collectibles can be purchased at bookstores.
The Internet is an excellent source. But since so many
factors affect value - such as condition and
availability - it is recommended that collectibles
experts be consulted. Any of the vendors at the shows
would be glad to evaluate such items.
Does the public's interest in memorabilia seem to be
growing? Yes. We're seeing a desire for nostalgia by
baby boomers. I think people enjoy the memories their
favorite items bring. Collectibles bring back feelings
of a simpler time, a fun experience shared with someone
special, or a feeling of excitement in owning something
touched by someone we admire.
Which collectibles are generating the most interest
now? Each class of collectibles seems to have its turn
at being the most popular at any given time. There is
always a demand for dolls, `Star Wars,' Hot Wheels,
NASCAR, comics, and sportscards. Action figures are hot
right now. Popular antique toys from the early 1900s
through the 1960s are also very popular. You'll find all
these items at our shows.
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