Thoughts, observations and opinions on the National

[BillyCoxDodgers3B]

A few thoughts (most of which have undoubtedly been discussed to death already):

I think it's imperative that the largest show of its kind cater to the majority. Most of the dealer and collector demographic live on the east coast (with the heaviest concentration being in NY and NJ). It makes no sense to have 80-90% of attendees come all the way out to the west coast. The Anaheim show proved what a poor decision that was.

Chicago is centrally located for all involved and has much to offer in the way of non-hobby perks. The Rosemont Center leaves much to be desired, however. Those in charge of running it should look to Baltimore's venue and take note.

I think Cleveland makes a lot of sense, but again, the venue isn't the greatest. The IX Center certainly offers ample and affordable parking, and accommodations can be found on Priceline for next to nothing (I paid $35/night last year at a Holiday Inn, complementary limo shuttle service included).

Out of curiosity, what would cities such as Cincinnati and Pittsburgh have to offer? These would seem like ideal geographic/demographic areas. From past experience, there's plenty to be had in the way of hotels and dining, and each has an MLB team. I would have included Columbus, but alas, no baseball to watch!

[Jim VB]

Originally Posted by JBirkholm

I would have included Columbus, but alas, no baseball to watch!

Clippers baby! (And a beautiful new stadium!)

[calvindog]

Originally Posted by JBirkholm

I would have included Columbus, but alas, no baseball to watch!

Nah, the place is filled with takers.

[BBSD]

San Diego would be a great venue. All you guys/gals would dig this place for those who have not already been here.

[Jim VB]

Mike Berkus is on the Board of Directors of the committee that organizes The National. He is a registered member here (MBerkus), although he reads and posts infrequently. I'm sure if someone took the time to PM him, he'd be glad to come on and discuss San Diego, as well as other options. You can find him through "Member List" in the "Community" tab.

Last year at this time, he did exactly that. Unfortunately, one rude member took to some name calling (couldn't understand why they never considered Nashville, or some such nonsense.) If he does agree to talk, let's try to keep it polite. (I know. I know. Pot, meet kettle.)


I mention this because he is able to offer insight as to why certain cities will never work. I know that I learned about the union rules at the Javitz Center in NYC through his posts. Those rules would increase the cost of every booth by over $2400.

[Rob D.]

Originally Posted by calvindog

Nah, the place is filled with takers.

Point taken. Aside from that, much like some parts of the country get invaded by cicadas every 17 years, central Ohio falls prey to an annual summer influx of pissants. So the National committee would have to work around that.

[Jim VB]

Originally Posted by Rob D.

Point taken. Aside from that, much like some parts of the country get invaded by cicadas every 17 years, central Ohio falls prey to an annual summer influx of pissants. So the National committee would have to work around that.

Did you say 17 years or 17 minutes?

[tbob]

Originally Posted by JBirkholm

Out of curiosity, what would cities such as Cincinnati and Pittsburgh have to offer? These would seem like ideal geographic/demographic areas. From past experience, there's plenty to be had in the way of hotels and dining, and each has an MLB team.

If it were held in Pittsburgh we certainly wouldn't have to worry about getting great seats there's going to be plenty available for a long time. (Sorry Pirates fans).

[ChiefBenderForever]

With all the revitalization to Pittsburgh I think it would be a great city to have a national, not to mention so many dealers and collectors seem to be in that area and not to far from the east coast. Won't the Suntimes and Sportsfest Chicago shows take a blow with some many back to back huge shows especially with everyone gearing up for the national ? Chicago is good as it is in the middle for east and west coasts but seems to be a bit overkill.

[Rob D.]

Originally Posted by JohnnyHarmonica

With all the revitalization to Pittsburgh I think it would be a great city to have a national, not to mention so many dealers and collectors seem to be in that area and not to far from the east coast. Won't the Suntimes and Sportsfest Chicago shows take a blow with some many back to back huge shows especially with everyone gearing up for the national ? Chicago is good as it is in the middle for east and west coasts but seems to be a bit overkill.

I would pay to watch someone who found the walkway from the Hilton to the Baltimore Convention Center challenging try to navigate some of the streets of Pittsburgh.

[insidethewrapper]

So Ford Field would be way to small, how about Cobo Hall ( 700,000 square feet +) ?

[toppcat]

Originally Posted by insidethewrapper

So Ford Field would be way to small, how about Cobo Hall ( 700,000 square feet +) ?

They could get KISS again as autograph guests!

[teetwoohsix]

+1 for Las Vegas...............