Mid 80's and I am a die-hard Mets fan living in South Florida. I never missed an episode of Kiner's Korner or TWIB. I used to go to my local card shop multiple times as week, as it was located in the same shopping center as my mother's job.
Card collecting was always a self-indulgent hobby, as my family took very little interest in it, other than to buy me the newest Topps set each year for my birthday.
In the late 80's (don't remember the year), it was a shock that my father was willing to take me to a small local show at the Ramada Inn. Gary Sheffield, nephew of Doc Gooden, was there signing. While there, an old-time Yankee is also signing. Quite honestly, I don't know who he is, nor do I care - but I do know that he the sworn enemy. My father proceeds to tell me that I HAVE to get his autograph, if for nothing other than his crazy antics as Yankee manager.
He buys me a 1961 beater of Billy Martin for $.25 and the auto. (Can't get the file to upload)
My father took no interest in the hobby 30 years ago and hasn't taken any since, but that day and card will always stand out for me.
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