The most forged autographs of 2013.

I recently attended a comic con show and a dealer was selling a beautiful autograph of Mickey Mantle.  It was signed on an American League ball, on the sweet spot in blue pen.  When I asked the dealer "How much for the Mantle ball?", he responded "$150."  I asked who authenticated it and he said he won it at an auction, but had no authentication.  That explained why a $800-$1000 ball was only $150.  It was too good to be true.  So I walked away. 

Recently the PSA/DNA corporation listed the most forged autographs of 2013.  There are certainly giants of sports on that list such as Ruth, Gehrig, Mantle, Williams, Jordan in addition to current Los Angeles Dodger Yasiel Puig.

So when purchasing an autograph that you don't see signed yourself, the sales person should always be able to show you some form of authentication.  That can be a simple certificate, hologram, certified letter or online verification.  They should also be able to explain where the autograph came from.  That could be a public or private signing, a charity auction or a specific company.  It's ok to ask lots of questions, it's your money changing hands.  And if it's too good to be true, then walk away. 

Full forgery article is below.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/yasiel-puig-among-most-forged-autographs-collectibles-industry-194457014--mlb.html

A Win-Win: Charity Events, Dinners for collectors to participate in.

One way I attempt to manage dreary and cold winters in New England is to find and participate in fun and local baseball events.  These events are generally casual, family friendly, include food, auctions for authentic collectibles, meet and greets with prospects, current and past players and lots of autographs.  Proceeds for these events usually go to charitable organizations such as team foundations, the Jimmy Fund or other philanthropies. 

In New England, 4 of these events are scheduled in January.  The Lowell Spinners, Portland Sea Dogs, Jimmy Fund and Boston Sports Writers Association are all hosting charity events with plenty of players available to meet.  Each event has it's own set of rules, pricing and schedule.

For instance the Boston Sports Writers dinner has plenty of big name guests such as David Ortiz, Tom Glavine and members of the 2013 World Series Champion Red Sox.  However only kids 16 and under are allowed to acquire autographs.

The Jimmy Fund event has tiered pricing, which allows guests more or less autographs and either a ball or Red Sox replica jersey.  People of all ages are allowed autographs and to meet players at this function.  This also includes a lunch.  Guests are usually top Red Sox prospects and one or 2 current players.  AJ Pierzynski, the new Sox catcher is scheduled to appear.

The Lowell Spinners dinner has one price, and usually one autograph per person.  Dave Roberts is the top guest scheduled for this function.  They haven't listed any other significant guests to this point.  Although in the past, this event usually had 10-12 guests.  The Spinners usually have a great silent auction, live auction and a good dinner.

The Portland SeaDogs are also hosting an event in January.  Their dinner will have Red Sox players Brandon Workman & Jackie Bradley Jr. as well as other guests in attendance. The Sea Dogs are limiting  this event to 300 people and all in attendance will receive an autographed 8x10 photo of Jackie Bradley Jr and Brandon Workman.

So take advantage of these family oriented charitable and team events.  You are not only supporting these respective organizations,  but offering opportunities for fans of all ages to meet their favorite players in a very laid back setting.

For more information, click on these links below:

http://www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t546

http://www.bostonbaseballwriters.org/index.php/dinner-info

www.lowellspinners.com

www,jimmyfund.org

2004 Red Sox hero, Dave Roberts public appearance

There haven't been too many Red Sox players who have had as much of an impact on a team in such a short span than Dave Roberts.  All Sox fans remember his famous steal in Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS against the Yankees.  He has signed thousands those photos and yet, almost 9 years later his autograph is still in high demand.

To help meet that demand, Dave will make a rare east coast appearance in southern New Hampshire to sign autographs on Saturday January 11th.  His pricing is the same as it was 9 seasons ago, $29 for regular items, $ 39 for premium items and $15 for inscriptions.  This is a great opportunity to take advantage of meeting one of the best men in baseball.

For more information check www.newenglandpicture.com

Rob Gronkowski Public Autograph Appearance

If you need a great gift idea for the die hard Patriots fan, I have one for you.  Imagine giving a person a ticket for the opportunity to meet and get an autograph from Patriot tight end Rob Gronkowski.  He will be appearing on Tuesday December 17th in Mansfield Massachusetts. 

Pricing for regulars items is $69 and premium items are $89.  Although this is at a Sports Authority, fans must purchase an autograph ticket to acquire an autograph. 

For more information on the event you can check:
www.sureshotpromotions.com
www.newenglandpicture.com

 


 

2013 World Series Champion Jonny Gomes, Public Appearance

If you need a great Holiday gift idea here's one for you.  How about giving a Sox fan the opportunity to meet a World Series Champion?  Yes, 2013 World Series champion, Jonny Gomes, is making a public appearance on Tuesday December 10th in Derry NH. 

Pricing for this is very fair, $59 for regular items, $99 for premium items and $25 for inscriptions such as "Boston Strong" or "2013 WS champs". 

For more information check the following websites:
www.newenglandpicture.com
www.sureshotpromotions.com

2013 World Series Gift Ideas

For those of you collecting 2013 World Series autographs, I have 2 gift ideas for you.  When the Red Sox won the 2004 World Series there were hundreds of choices available to display or add autographs onto, such as bats, balls, jerseys, magazine covers, seats, etc.....  Most people don't have the budget to purchase all of those choices, as was the case for me.  So after doing some research I settled on 2 items, that 10 years later I'm still happy with.

bigtimebats.com is a company I really like.  They produce custom championship Louisville Slugger bats to commemorate team championships.  I purchased one in 2004 and 2007.  They bats are limited edition and very reasonably priced around $100-$110.  They are great for a team item or for single signatures.

The 2004 limited edition limited edition bat.
 

caseworksfactorystore.com  specializes in acrylic display cases.  They make everything for every possible item that can be autographed.  What I like about their choices is that they create specific team items to meet all fans needs.  They also have UV protected cases on everything which is important to me.  They are a bit on the expensive side, but as stated earlier, I'm very satisfied.  I've never had an item fade or turn bad in any of their display pieces.  For the 2013 World Series they created a limited edition display case with the Red Sox logo, the World Series Logo and the scores of the games etched on the back.  It also comes with an authentic 2013 World Series baseball.  The base price for this piece is $80 plus shipping.  For a little over $20 more you can purchase the UV protected cover, which I highly recommend.


2013 World Series Display case

The 2004 World Series Display case
 

Come and Meet Bruin Legend and Hockey Hall of Famer Phil Esposito

Have you ever met a hockey legend?  If not, now is your chance.  Bruin Legend, Phil Esposito will be appearing on Monday November 11 in Nashua NH.  Phil was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1984.  He played in over 1280 games and scored 717 goals (5th all time).  He was in 10 all star games and won 2 Stanley Cups in Boston.  His #7 is retired by the Bruins.

Pricing to meet this legend is outstanding as he starts at $39 for flats/pucks and $69 for everything else.  Inscriptions are $25. 

For more information check www.newenglandpicture.com.

Meet Current Patriots Rob Gronkowski and Rob Ninkovich

The Patriots might not be the most popular team in New England this October, however they are certainly #2.  They have a great record through 8 games and their key players are still popular amongst the fans.

New England Picture Company and Sure Shot Promotions are providing you all an opportunity to meet and acquire an autograph from Rob Gronkowski and Rob Ninkovich in the month of November.  Pricing for these 2 separate events is great.  Gronkowski starts at $69 and Ninkovich at $29.  Moreover, they will be appearing in different parts of New England, as Gronkowski will be in Braintree, Ma. and Ninkovich in Warwick, RI. 

For more information please visit www.newenglandpicture.com or www.sureshotpromotions.com

Aly Raisman, Roger Clemens, Pedro Martinez and more

This is one of my favorite weeks of the year.  Other than this being my birthday week, I look forward to attending the Greater Boston Sports Collector's Club Card and Memorabilia Show.  It's occurred the first weekend in November at the Shriner Auditorium in Wilmington Mass. for as long as I can remember.  This year's show is scheduled for Friday November 1st - Sunday November 3rd and is featuring Olympian Ally Raisman, former Sox pitchers Pedro Martinez and Roger Clemens and many, many more. I have not missed attending this show since I first attended in 2002.  I have found hundreds of deals on anything including memorabilia, photos, cards, supplies and autographs. There will be over 80 dealers in attendance, both from the region and nationally.

One of the reasons this show is my favorite is that everyone is very friendly and helpful.   There are items out there for the bargain hunter or the high end collector and of course all of us in between.  I've seen autographs for sale that include almost every hall of famer for every sport.  I've seen rare items like Cy Young, Babe Ruth and Alan Shepard(First U.S. astronaut in space) signed items.  I've learnt much about collecting, how to preserve autographs and what's out there on the market.  I always feel that when I walk and speak with dealers, I learn something new every November.

US Olympian Aly Raisman

So here are some tips on how to make the most of one day or the weekend at the show.
1.  Walk the entire floor at least once before purchasing anything.  My experience is that you will find the same item in multiple locations.  The dealers are very competitive and will almost always come down in price to get the sale.
2.  Prepare to spend at least 2 hours browsing.  Be patient and ready to negotiate.
3.  Bring something to drink with you.  It is very dry in most facilities.
4.  Wear comfortable footwear.  The entire floor is concrete.
5.  If you are purchasing an autograph or game used piece of memorabilia make sure it is has authentication.  Ask the dealer where it came from and who authenticated it.  If the price is too good to be true, then don't purchase it. 
6.  Most dealers will come down in price on the last day of a show.  They honestly don't want to haul it back to their homes or businesses. 
7.  Have cash on hand.  Most dealers cannot accept credit cards and if they do, they might charge a service fee to pay for the connection at their table.
8.  Sign up for raffles and door prizes.  Almost every show has them and there are usually great prizes.
9.  If you are attending to meet players, be ready to wait in line, and in small spaces.  Also, if you have no idea what you want autographed the promoter's merchandise table will have the best items at reasonable prices.

This year's autograph guests include:
Pedro Martinez
Roger Clemens
Ray Bourque
Jeff Reardon
Baseball Hall of Famers Rollie Fingers, Rod Carew, Paul Molitor and Rickey Henderson
US Olympians Hope Solo and Aly Raisman
Tim McCarver
Pete Rose
Boston Bruin and Stanley cup champions, Brad Marchand, Greg Campbell and Johnny Boychuk
Former New England Patriot and NFL Hall of Famer Andre Tippett
Ramiro Mendoza
2004 WS champion Curtis Leskanic
Sammy Stewart

For more information on autograph guest information please visit www.sureshotpromotions.com

2013 World Series Autograph ideas

2013 Official World Series Ball

In New England,  fans are in a frenzy about the Red Sox being in the World Series.  Stores from Dick's to the Red Sox team store are busy with fans looking to purchase ALCS and World Series gear and memorabilia.  So for those of you like me hoping to purchase autographed items or merchandise to get autographed, this is the posting for you.

For those of you looking for autographed items from members on the active playoff roster check out www.sureshotpromotions.com.  They have current player autographs marked at 1/2 price which include signed balls and photos.

For those of you looking to find items for future autographs be careful what you pay for now.  The typical price of a brand new official 2013 world series ball is $20-$25 depending on where you purchase from.  Do not purchase the fake photo balls as they will not hold autographs over a long period of time.  It is worth the extra cash for the real thing.  There are many, many websites selling the official balls at a very fair price.  Anything over $25 is unreasonable and a rip off.

If you're hoping to start a team signed item here are some options:
An official WS baseball, 8x10 photo (fitting all autographs on an 8x10 will be hard) or a magazine cover, will be the most cost effective method of collecting as these are considered basic items to have signed.
A full size helmet, 16x20 photo (or larger) bat or jersey will look great and certainly have enough space for 25-30 signatures.  However, those are considered premium items and will cost 25-30% more to have signed.

In the past, I purchased a specially made bat and had the WS MVP sign it and had the team sign a WS ball.  That covered all my needs both financially as well as enhanced my collection.  So whether you are looking to start a team signed item for the Red Sox or Cardinals this season, or are looking to start a team signed item from champions in the past, spend wisely and effectively.



2004 SI team signed cover

Go Sox!!!!

2007 World Series Team signed ball

 

2002 World Series Team signed ball (Anaheim Angels)

2004 World Series team signed ball


 

Autographed WS MVP's Manny Ramirez and Mike Lowell bats from 2004 & 2007.  .

Prospects to Playoffs

Everyone who reads this blog, knows I preach to take advantage of the opportunity to get free or cheap autographs from athletes in their prospect/rookie days.  Yeah, you're always taking a risk, but the reality is that more often than not, top rookies and prospects will have a long term impact on their respective games.  The reward is far more gratifying than having an autograph of a player who doesn't make it. You can say you met a player, most likely had a good interaction and hopefully make your autograph collecting experience more fun and maybe more valuable.

As I look at this year's remaining MLB playoff teams and my personal collection I realized I have many autographs from remaining players, all of which I acquired during the player minor league days.  The autographs are in great shape and, moreover, enhance the sentimental and financial value of the pieces.  I hope this motivates you to consider taking the risk in the future.

Anibal Sanchez and Jon Lester Signed baseballs.  Both acquired when they pitched for the AA Portland Sea Dogs

Clay Buchholz and Hanley Ramirez signed baseballs from Clay's days with the Lowell Spinners and Hanley's days at AA Portland Maine.

Jacoby Ellsbury signed ball from his days with the AA Portland Seadogs.

Are you ready for Playoff Baseball

So it occurred to me that I own many autographs from players participating in the 2013 MLB playoffs.  It got me thinking about how exciting it is to have met those individuals and how valuable those autographs may become based on their teams results.  Moreover, as I have mentioned prior to this, my collecting experience is most gratifying when I have a great experience meeting and chatting with a player.  It's nice to know I made a personal connection with these players as I see them in person or on TV.  For me this is what collecting is all about and makes the playoffs all that much more fun, not to mention the Red Sox are rocking it so far.

Autographs from various 2013 Pirates, Dodgers, Athletics, Rays, Tigers & Cardinals.

Autographed Manny Ramirez Ball from 2004.

Autographed Mike Lowell Ball from 2007. 

Hall of Famer, Jim Rice Autograph signing

Your opportunity to meet a major league baseball hall of famer is now.  Former Red Sox left fielder, Jim Rice, will be appearing at the store, Sports and More in Providence, RI.  Jim played his whole career in Boston.  He was the 1978 AL MVP, an 8 time all star, a member of the all Fenway team and of course in the 2009 baseball hall of fame class.

Pricing for this event is fantastic for a hall of famer.  Regular items (balls and flats) are $49, premium items (Jerseys, Bats) are $69 and inscriptions (HOF 09) are $25.  I recommend taking advantage of this opportunity based on the guest and the price.

For more information see below:

Jonny Gomes Autograph signing

Sure shot promotions is hosting another autograph signing with a current Red Sox player.  Late game hero, Jonny Gomes is appearing at the south shore plaza on July 21.  As true Red Sox fans know, Jonny has come up big in 3 games this year, hitting 3 walk off HR's.  Although his stats don't show it, he has been an instrumental member of the success for this year's team. 

If you're wondering what to get signed, Jonny was on the cover of Sports Illustrated a week after the marathon bombings.  It's a great keepsake to have, as Boston pride is depicted in that photo/cover.  Pricing for this event is great, as it starts at $29.00 for balls and flats and $39.00 for all other items.  There is an inscription fee of $15.00 per item.  This price is awesome for any current Sox player and should be taken advantage of.


Jonny Gomes on the cover of SI, April 2013

For more information check:
www.sureshotpromotions.com

Now is the time to get Tyler Seguin Memorabilia

If you haven't heard, 21 year old Bruin Tyler Seguin was traded to the Dallas Stars.  It's hard to believe the Bruins gave up on this kid after only 3 seasons at his age.  However, most NHL experts believe he'll mature and still grow into an NHL all star.

This trade did create a wonderful opportunity for Seguin fans to find some extremely discounted merchandise.  Even though, he is now a Dallas Star, he did win a Stanley Cup in Boston.  That will always keep his items valuable.  Companies like sureshotpromotions.com have already marked down their items by 50% and you can purchase high quality autographs for as low as $45.  I'm sure other companies will follow.  So get your discounted Seguin item now and watch it double in value. 



One of the many marked down Seguin Autographs.  This 16x20 autographed print is now only $49 on Sureshotpromotions.com

Larry Wayne Jones, #10 is retired

The Atlanta Braves did a great thing this week.  The organization retired Chipper Jones #10.  What I most appreciate about Chipper is that he played with the Braves his entire 19 year career.  In the current state of major league sports, that just doesn't happen anymore.  In baseball, Mariano Rivera and Derek Jeter are most likely going to play their whole career with the Yankees, and that might be all. 

Chipper should be assured a spot in the baseball hall of fame.  He has never been accused of using PED's or steroids.  He has always remained out of trouble and is considered a hero in the Atlanta area.  His numbers are strong, as he accumulated 468 HR's and 2726 hits, both more than respectable.  He was an 8 time all star and won the national league MVP in 1999.  He appeared in 93 post season games, appeared in 3 world series and won in 1995. 

I always found him to be a great autograph signer at the ball park.  It was rare to not see him sign before a game.  I always enjoyed how we would talk to all fans with a smile and make everyone that said something to him feel unique and special with his replies. 

If you're a true fan of baseball his autograph is a must have.  If you don't have one, I recommend finding one now, before he is inducted into the hall of fame in 5 years.  His price is high and will only increase.  As 8x10 of today, an autographed 8x10 photo will run a fan about $169, balls cost about $200, then premium items start at $350 and up. 

He is making a rare public autograph appearance in Chicago the first weekend in August.  Pricing there starts at $149 and goes up from there.  If you cannot make that, I recommend ordering a piece through the mail, as you will still save money after shipping. 

My first Chipper Autograph from spring training 2002.

More than an Athlete

Earlier this week I was invited to work a private autograph signing with Kevin Millar.  I've worked many private and public signings in the past, but this one was particularly unique.  You see, Ryan Dempster hosted signing at his private home. Ryan and Kevin are good friends and we were invited into Ryan's kitchen to have Millar sign about 275 items. 

As awkward as it was to be in the kitchen of a Red Sox player, those of us working were afforded the opportunity to see him in a private and personal setting.  Honestly, it was refreshing.  There were many family members walking around the living room and kitchen.  Ryan was sitting on his couch, watching TV with kids in his lap.  Moreover, when Ryan asked the family if they wanted pancakes for breakfast, a resounding "Yes" game from the group.  Despite the fact, he pitched 6+ innings the previous night, and achieved another win for the Sox, he was standing at the oven and kitchen counter, preparing flour, eggs and batter to cook pancakes for everyone. 

In this world of highly paid athletes and entitlement, it was great to see that at least some players, in this case Ryan Dempster and Kevin Millar, value family first.  The connection they have with their children and immediate families demonstrated to me that their priorities are in the right place.  Lastly, they are truly 2 of the nicest athletes I ever met.

What a strange week!!!!

I think this past week was one of the strangest in Boston sports history. The Bruins losing in the Stanley Cup final, Celtics head coach Doc Rivers left for LA and Danny Ainge traded Garnett and Pierce, John Lackey was the Red Sox star and of course Aaron Hernandez headlined this crazy week for the local teams.  I cannot remember a week like this for any sports town.

The New England memorabilia industry also experienced many ups and downs this week.  The Bruins losing, the Celtics dismantling and the apathy for the Sox is bad enough for business, but the Aaron Hernandez situation is just shattering.  From the business point of view, this murder case is unprecedented.  Unlike situations involving players who are accused or caught using performance enhancing drugs, a popular athlete accused of murder takes the cake.  I know, OJ Simpson went through this in the 90's, but the memorabilia world was about 1/10th the industry and he wasn't convicted.

Although Hernandez is only in the accused stage, his name and merchandise has taken a huge hit.  Most businesses cut ties to his merchandise as quickly as the Patriots released him.  I know this is nothing compared to the feeling's of the victim's family, as this is a tragedy, but this accusation will cost the New England memorabilia industry millions of dollars.  Most dealers/businessmen and fans will still buy or sell PED user autographs and items, but they won't touch anything to do with Hernandez with a 10' pole.

You can wait and see how the trial plays out and hope for the best, but even if found innocent, Hernandez's reputation was fiercly hit so negatively, I don't see a recovery.   So if you own a Hernandez item be ready to let it collect dust, throw it away or just hope you can get 10% of it's value from someone.



Goodbye Paul, Doc and Kevin.
 

Tyler Seguin Autograph appearance

One tip I encourage all collectors, new and old, to take advantage of,  is to meet a young athlete when the opportunity presents itself.  A very large chunk of my 2000 autographs came from players in their first 2-3 seasons with a team when they are cheap and accessible. 
Collectors will be afforded this rare opportunity on April 1, 2013, when they can meet 21 year old, Boston Bruin, Tyler Seguin.  Tyler is still 3-4 years from his prime and has already had a significant impact on the Bruins, including winning the Stanley Cup.  His autograph will only become more valuable and more in demand over the next few years.  So take advantage now!!!!

The pricing for a young superstar as Tyler, is fantastic for this event.  Only $59 for regular items and $79 for premium, $25 for inscriptions.  I am telling you, fans will regret not taking advantage of this now. 

The information on location and time is below. 
www.sureshotpromotions.com
www.newenglandpicture.com

Aaron Hernandez rescheduled signing

About 2 weeks ago, Aaron Hernandez was scheduled to make an autograph appearance with Rob Gronkowski.  Unfortunately, Aaron had to postpone his appearance that day.  His new appearance date is Monday, April 29.  The location is still in the same place, in Derry NH.

His pricing is $59 for regular items (8x10 photos, mini helmets) and $79 for premium items (oversized photos, helmets and jerseys). 

For more information please check www.newenglandpicture.com or www.sureshotpromotions.com.

Come and Meet Milan Lucic

Milan Lucic is one of the toughest and most popular current Bruins.  He is a member of the 2011 Stanley Cup Champions.  He is also making an autograph appearance on March 26, in Nashua NH.  I have met Milan 2 times and he is one of the nicest professional athletes I have worked with.  Fans who meet him always rave about how well he treats them.

Pricing for Milan is very good.  Pricing for regular autographs (Pucks, and 8x10 photos) is $49.  Premium items such as jerseys, sticks and over size photos are priced at $69.  Inscriptions are $25.  I highly recommend taking advantage of this price and event, as the promoters are offering a great opportunity to meet a Stanley cup champion.

For more information check www.newenglandpicture.com or www.sureshotpromotions.com

Stan the Man Musial - Autograph Deals

Since the passing of baseball hall of famer Stan Musial, I have been looking to purchase one of his authenticated autographed baseballs.  I have looked in over 15 - 20 places, both in person and online and the pricing started at $225 for a signed ball.  This seemed very high, as until the day he died, you could find one in the $100-$150 range. 

This past week I had the pleasure of visiting St. Louis for the first time.  As part of the 4 days that I stayed there, I made a visit to the new Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.  In the Cardinal's team store I found the item I was looking for.  An Authenticated autographed baseball, signed by Stan the Man Musial.  The price was in the $100-$150 range, with included the UV protected ball cube.  The authentication was a matching hologram both on the ball and certificate, that came from Musial's agent.  Not to mention, it is highly unlikely that a major league baseball, authorized team store, would sell a fake autograph.

So if you're looking for a Stan the Man Musial autographed ball, please check out the St. Louis Cardinal team store.

Stan Musial Autographed ball.

Matching hologram on certificate and ball.

The original number = High Value

One afternoon last summer, I was grateful to have an opportunity to work with Red Sox 3rd baseman, Will Middlebrooks.  At that autograph signing, he was telling the volunteers & workers that after the 2012 season, his jersey number would change from 64 to 16.  That piece of inside information created quite a stir in room, as the companies involved were having many #64 jerseys autographed.  We were all asked to keep this information secret as to not hurt #64 jersey sales. 
However, I had a different take on it because I feel the first jersey a player wears for a season in the big leagues, especially an all star prospect like Middlebrooks, will be worth more in the long term.  Yes, in the short run, fans aren't likely to purchase jerseys or t-shirts with #64, but over time those jerseys will increase in value.  I say that, because when I attend silent auctions, check auction sites or retail sites for autographed jerseys, I always find the older, original jerseys have much higher value.  I'm not talking about the long term minor leaguer who have made some small appearances in the majors, but I'm talking about the future all starts and MVP's.  Most people forget that Jacoby Ellsbury once wore number 43 before changing to #2.  I saw an MLB authenticated autographed #43 Ellsbury jersey on EBAY for $300.  I completely forgot he wore that number in his first few games in the majors.  So, now is the time to invest in a #64 autographed Middlebrooks jersey.  Most places will be selling these for $75-$100. 



Will Wearing #64 in action at Fenway.

Boston Celtic and Bruin Autograph Appearances

4 players in 2 days.  That's right, New England Picture Company is offering fans an opportunity to meet 2 Boston Celtics and 2 Boston Bruins in 2 days.  On day 1, (February 27, 2013) two of the Bruin 2011 Stanley Cup Champions will be appearing at the South Shore Plaza in Braintree Mass..  Adam McQuaid and Danielle Paille will be signing autographs for only $25 each for each item, regular or premium.  You can also purchase a super ticket to get an autograph from each player for $45.  That is a great price for members of a championship team from Boston.  This pricing won't ever be this cheap for these athletes anytime in the near future.
On day 2, (February 28, 2013), New England Picture Company are hosting 2 of the Boston Celtic forwards, Jared Sullinger and Brandon Bass for an autograph signing.  This is an outstanding opportunity to meet a future star of the Celtics and a wiley veteran of the NBA.   Pricing for this is more than fair, starting at $29 for regular items and $39 for premium. Super tickets will save you money which start at $50 for an autograph from each player. 
Both of these signings will occur at the New England Picture South Shore Plaza store. 
For more information check www.newenglandpicture.com.

The Voices of our Teams

For many sports fans, their home teams are identified by not only the players performing but by those broadcasting the games.  Whether it be on TV or Radio, locally or nationally, sports fans know the broadcasters.  For years, the Philadelphia Phillies had Harry Kalas, the Milwaukee Brewers have Bob Eucker, ESPN has Dick Vitale and the Dodgers have Vin Scully.  In New England we all remember Johnny Most, Curt Gowdy, Gil Santos (Just retired), Fred Cusick, Ned Martin, Bob Cousy, Joe Castiglione (Still active) and Mike Gorman (Still active) and many more.
So why don't people collect autographs for more of these well known people?  I'm not really sure. 
Most broadcasters are former and well known athletes.  Most broadcasters are a part of the team's tradition and history.  Most broadcasters are willing to sign, at least more than the athletes.  Most broadcasters don't sign often, therefore their autographs tend to be worth money, especially those on the national level. 
Although they usually work in secure locations, inaccessible to the regular fan, they are generally more accessible before and after a game.  They almost always enter or exit the venue through a public door.  And if they use a more secure door, they usually will appear in a less secure location to find their mode of transportation. Sometimes you can find these individuals on or near the field of play prior to game time, especially after they conduct their player/coach interviews. 
So if you want to start collecting unique pieces, start seeking out the broadcast team.  You will own a piece of nostalgia and history.

Autographed Harry Kallas, Curt Gowdy and Vin Scully Autographs.

Autograph Signing with Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski

Patriot fans, it's finally here!!!!!  After hundreds of requests, Sure Shot Promotions and New England Picture Company are hosting a fantastic event with the 2 star Patriot tight ends, Rob Gronkowski & Aaron Hernandez.  That's right, both players will be at the same place (Sports Zone Athletic Complex, Derry NH), on the same date (March 4, 2013) and time (7:00pm - 8:30pm) to sign autographs for fans. 

Pricing for this is fantastic, as regular items start at $59 and $69 respectively for each player.  There are also super tickets available starting at $119.  The super ticket will allow you to acquire one autograph from each player.  Pricing for premium items is higher.

I highly recommend purchasing your tickets early, as this will sell out.  Having 2 players of this caliber is rare and fans of these players will take advantage.  The lower your ticket number, the earlier you get in line. 

For more information please check www.sureshotpromotions.com.