Autograph Collectors Daily

Michael Anthony Signing at The Rock and Roll Emporium, Huntington Beach

2008-08-21T04:06:00.002-04:00

Michael Anthony, former bassist for Van Halen and currently playing with Sammy Hagar, The Other Half and the new supergroup Chickenfoot, is going to be signing autographs at The Rock and Roll Emporium on Friday, August 22 at 5pm. He is promoting 2 of his product lines - his hot sauces and his replica miniature guitars.

The Rock and Roll Emporium
205 Main Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714-960-4040
kate@therockandrollemporium.com

Michael Phelps' Autographed Card Tops $2,500 on eBay

2008-08-20T14:03:00.003-04:00

Michael Phelps' rarest certified autograph card -- one Upper Deck made 10 copies of for select attendees of the 20th anniversary Hawaii Trade Show -- has sold for $2,550 on eBay.

The card sold for that amount after 48 bids, quite a jump from its $950 price tag after 26 bids. This is a rarer alternative to the very popular 2004 Leaf Rookies & Stars Fans of the Game card, which is limited to 300 copies -- and still hasn't topped $800. (One auction did end at $1,500 for two cards.)

As autographed Phelps items have flooded eBay, the only unquestionably legitimate signed items are these two certified autographs, which were produced to be sold.

According to data provided by eBay on Monday, Phelps has had a surge in auctions. Some specifics:

-- Average price? $16.08

-- There has been a 960 percent increase in “Michael Phelps” listings in the past seven days.

-- There has been a 738 percent increase in “Michael Phelps” listings in the past 30 days.

-- There has been a 91 percent increase in sales of “Michael Phelps” items in the past 30 days.

Michael Phelps' Autographed Card Tops $2,500 on eBay
Michael Phelps' Autographed Card Tops $2,500 on eBay

Which Authors Are Faking Their Autographs?

2008-08-19T16:48:00.003-04:00

(Click image for larger version)

There seems to be no role left in book publishing that an author can't outsource. Ghost writers are commonplace. Laura "JT LeRoy" Albert pioneered the use of a surrogate in book-tour appearances. And judging by the Craigslist ad, writers are even hiring forgers to affix their autographs to new releases, because signing books is just way too much work. With all the celebrity titles in circulation, this surely can't be a brand-new phenomenon, but has anyone ever been quite so cheap and brazen about it?

At two authors and $25 per 200 books, one would have to churn out a convincing fake signature every 9 seconds just to earn the advertised $25 per hour. And you're supposed to visit their office on spec to prove your abilities first!

It's not clear on behalf of which authors the ad was posted. The phone number reverses to an ad agency called Nax Partners run by this woman who just appeared on CNBC and advised everyone to adjust their attitudes upward. And their ethics downward, apparently.

Which Authors Are Faking Their Autographs
Which Authors Are Faking Their Autographs

Delta Goodrem Signs Autographs For Nine Hours!

2008-08-19T16:44:00.003-04:00

She's done the whole nine yards on the Australian charts, now Delta Goodrem has recorded a marathon effort meeting and greeting local fans - logging a staggering nine-hour autograph session.

Back on the hustings in Brisbane yesterday, the songbird was still standing, singing and signing after clocking an impressive hard day's write in Melbourne over the weekend.

Running on nervous energy as she prepares for her return to the US - and an appearance on David Letterman - Goodrem's reps assured Confidential the former Neighbours babe will stand by her in-store commitments tomorrow - at Westfield Parramatta from 5pm.

Delta Goodrem Signs Autographs For Nine Hours
Delta Goodrem Signs Autographs For Nine Hours

Michael Phelps' Gold a Dying Boy's Wish

2008-08-18T17:21:00.004-04:00

It was late, after midnight, and a little boy lay asleep in his bed. Just 11 years old, he was a desperately sick boy. He did not, as it turned out, have many more days left to live.

It was late, and Michael Phelps' plane had been delayed, and so by the time he got to Stevie Hansen's bedroom, Stevie could not be roused. No matter. Michael sat there on Stevie's bed, holding Stevie's hand. Just talking, certain Stevie could hear him. For two hours. Maybe longer. No one remembers exactly.

The next morning, Stevie woke up and said to his mom, Betsy, "I wish I had woken up. But I know he was here."

Betsy Hansen sighed and said, "He was so thrilled."

A little more than a year has passed since that night, since Michael quietly paid tribute to the fighting spirit and the soulfulness of a little boy who, before cancer took over his body, had himself been a swimmer, too -- a boy who dreamed of one day being like his idol, Michael.

"He was an inspiration to me," Michael said Monday.

Michael Phelps is one of the greatest American athletes of his generation. At these Beijing Games, he won eight gold medals, the most ever at a single Olympics, topping the seven that Mark Spitz won in Munich in 1972.

His fame is staggering.

Phelps and young Stevie developed a bond through swimming.

But it can be nearly impossible in our sound-bite culture to see Michael as he typically is away from the spotlight -- the genuineness about him, the profound and fundamental decency.

To be sure, Michael is not perfect. He is not a saint. He is still but 23 years old. He has made mistakes, and acknowledged them.

But in the relationship he forged with Stevie Hansen, and as time went on with Stevie's family, his parents Betsy and Steve and younger sister Grace, Michael's uncommon decency could not have been more evident, more profound.

Here was a life lesson as a life was slipping away -- what it means to be a real friend, and what real friends do for each other.

"He's a very giving person," Debbie Phelps, Michael's mother, said. "He has always wanted to give back and make people happy and make them -- give them a little piece of him, a piece of his heart. Because he has a great heart."

Betsy Hansen said Michael "bravely came into our lives" when doing so meant "he was himself going to feel some pain," adding, "It takes courage to embrace a family in that position. He did it.

"It wasn't to better his image in the community or in the world. He just reached out to a little boy who thought, 'You're a really cool swimmer, I've always wanted to meet you.' "

Stevie was only 7 when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor, in October 2002.

Stevie was, even at that young, a promising age-group swimmer in Maryland, where Michael grew up and was training -- the Athens Olympics were still almost two years away.

As a 6-year-old, Stevie was already not only swimming but winning awards.

The day before surgery, Michael came over. He brought a flag, some shirts, a poster. They shot hoops in the driveway. They talked -- about how each of them loved junk food.

Michael sent balloons to the hospital. When Stevie woke up, his dad, Steve, recalls, he "just clutched the balloons, smiled and went back to sleep. It was like a lifeline: 'Michael cares.' "

Over the next year, Stevie seemed to get better. That next summer, Michael sent Stevie a note saying he wanted to come watch Stevie swim at a local meet. Which he did -- showing up unannounced.

"Stevie came over and said, 'Wow, you came!' And at a full run he leaped into Michael's arms," Steve said.

That afternoon, Michael watched from behind the blocks as Stevie raced in the free, the fly and a relay. Michael was coaxed into swimming a relay leg himself in a parents' and coaches' race -- even though he had to borrow a suit.

Michael and Stevie had lunch together. Michael signed autographs for all the other kids as well; he signed for Grace using a red Sharpie on her forehead. She calls Michael a "special friend."

That October, doctors found tumors on Stevie's spinal cord. He underwent another surgery; again, Michael "sent a big basket of stuff to the hospital," Steve said.

Stevie would, ultimately, undergo two more surgeries.

Michael would go to Athens, win eight Olympic medals, six gold, come home a star. He would move to Michigan, following his longtime mentor and coach, Bob Bowman, to train for the 2008 Games.

Still, Michael stayed in regular touch with Stevie, with Grace, with Steve and Betsy, and when, in April 2007, Betsy called Michael's mom, Debbie, to say, "We have a disaster here ... he wants to see Michael," Michael made it happen.

His plane was late. Bags were lost.

Still, Michael made it happen. He and Debbie showed up at the Hansen house well after midnight.

And stayed for two hours, maybe longer.

"Michael never dropped his hand," Betsy said. "It was so touching, so touching -- to see this big guy touched by the frailty of life, that Stevie wanted him."

Stevie had -- just like in the movies -- told his parents he wanted Michael to try to win an Olympic medal for him.

Even though Stevie wasn't awake to hear it, Michael made him that promise.

"I said I'd try to get a medal and hopefully it'd be a gold one," Michael recalled Monday.
Debbie was there that night, too, and when mother and son left the Hansens, stepping softly across the grass, wet with dew, it was hand in hand. "Death as we know it is not an easy thing to take as an adult, let alone a child," Debbie said.

The next day, Michael posted a note to Stevie's personal page on an Internet site for people confronting serious illnesses. It read, "Stevie, it was great to see you last night. I'm really glad I got to visit. You are very brave. You really are an inspiration to us all. Talk to you soon -- Michael."

Betsy responded with this post: "Yours was a gift," she wrote, "like none other."

Stevie passed away on May 29.

The memorial service took place on June 4.

Michael came back to Baltimore for the service. He sent a "spectacular spray of purple flowers," Betsy said, adding, "Purple was Stevie's favorite color."

He stood with the Hansens as they greeted friends and family. "A wonderful, selfless display of caring," Betsy said.

"It was never about people knowing he did it," she said. "It never went out in the press that he was here. Never.

"No one ever knew the depth of the relationship between them."

Michael said Monday, "When he passed away, when we went to the funeral -- it was hard. It was an honor for me to have someone like him look up to me."

He paused and added, "I'm sure he's looking down on us and I'm sure he's cheering from above."

Grace Hansen watched from far away this week, back in Maryland, as Michael won those eight medals.

"I saw him swim every day," she said by telephone and then added in a remark about Michael the swimmer and Michael her friend, "He's really good."

Michael Phelps' Gold a Dying Boy's Wish
Michael Phelps' Gold a Dying Boy's Wish

New Additions - Strickler's Celebrity Autographs

2008-08-17T12:51:00.003-04:00

Listed are a few new additions to our inventory:

-The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian Autograph 8x10 Photo - Ben Barnes, Georgie Henley, William Moseley and Anna Popplewell

-Jack Nicholson / Morgan Freeman (The Bucket List) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Jack Nicholson / Peter Fonda (Easy Rider) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Mel Gibson (Braveheart) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Stargate SG-1 Autograph 8x10 Photo - Amanda Tapping, Christopher Judge and Michael Shanks

-Robert Downey, Jr. / Gwyneth Paltrow (Ironman) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Robert Downey, Jr. / Terrence Howard (Ironman) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Will Smith (Hancock) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Ellen Page / Michael Cera (Juno) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Tom Hanks (Forrest Gump) Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Leona Lewis Autograph 8x10 Photo

-Taylor Swift Autograph 8x10 Photo

Just click here far all recently listed inventory. Thanks

New Additions - Strickler's Celebrity Autographs
New Additions - Strickler's Celebrity Autographs

Chinese NBA Fans Mob Team USA For Autographs and Photos

2008-08-17T12:46:00.001-04:00

Wherever Kobe Bryant and company go in this city, pandemonium follows. Forays from their luxury hotel into Beijing have resulted in mob scenes as Chinese and international fans seek photos and autographs from the NBA stars.

"We're like the Beatles over here," Chris Paul, the New Orleans Hornets all-star guard, told reporters.

For Chris Colwill, a 23-year-old diver from Athens, Ga., and most other U.S. athletes who move about Beijing with relative anonymity, the Olympic experience is exciting, but also mundane.

"Pretty much all we do is eat, sleep and dive," said Colwill, who graduated from the University of Georgia in the spring and placed fourth in the men's 3-meter synchronized springboard diving competition on Wednesday.

They may be on the same team, but some U.S. Olympic athletes might just as well hail from different planets.

The disparity underscores the growing international reach of sports like basketball and tennis. As sports programming is broadcast to an ever-larger audience and product-endorsement deals make top stars as recognizable in Beijing as in New York, the experience of competing in the Olympics has been reordered for marquee-name athletes.

Team USA basketball is staying in an undisclosed five-star hotel.

Roger Federer, the world's top-ranked tennis player, tried to stay in the Olympic village, which Beijing provides free of charge to athletes, but immediately checked out for a more secluded location.

"It is impossible really [to stay in the village]," Federer, of Switzerland, said at a press conference. "There are so many athletes asking for photos and so on. It is not ideal to prepare."

For the vast majority of Olympians, living in Beijing is more like going back to college. Colwill shares his three-bedroom suite with five teammates. "We just hang out and talk and watch movies on my computer," he said.

Food provided to the athletes is "nutritionally sound" but institutional, said Rebecca Snyder, a marksman from Colorado Springs, Colo.

Some athletes and newspapers have criticized the sports stars for being standoffish. London's Daily Mail huffed last week that the "mega-wealthy interlopers of the 2008 Games have declined to set up a Millionaires' Row in the communal living quarters."

U.S. team officials and athletes, however, dismiss the griping as unreasonable.

"Part of the magic of the games is that you have 10,500 athletes from all over the world essentially living in one place," said Darryl Seibel, chief spokesman for the U.S. Olympic Committee. "There is a real kinship that the athletes feel."

The U.S. basketball team and "a few other athletes and teams" are staying in hotels because "they attract a lot of attention," he said.

When the NBA players of Team USA visited a dining hall in Beijing's Olympic village last week, it turned a lunch break into a three-hour endurance event of autographs and hugs from strangers.

After seeing the team, Snyder said she understands why they cannot live with the rest of the Olympians.

"I understand completely," she said. "Their fame makes it impossible."

William Shatner Signs Off On Video Autographs

2008-08-16T02:18:00.004-04:00

William Shatner sat in a drab office staring at a TV monitor displaying a message he was supposed to read to a fan while signing an autograph, but "Star Trek's" Captain Kirk wasn't very happy.

"I can't do this, this is crazy," Shatner said.

The message on screen--which was submitted by the fan--was just too odd. But as an investor and partner in Live Autographs, a new video service in which celebrities appear on camera to deliver a personalized greeting as they sign an autograph, Shatner had to say something.

"Are you nuts? You want me to say, 'When I'm smoking and sipping whiskey with Allen'--who's Allen?--'I'm secretly thinking of you and your dog?'

"I can't say that," Shatner added, glaring into the camera, his words dripping the trademark irony he has summoned in countless TV performances, including his Emmy-winning role as Denny Crane on the ABC courtroom drama "Boston Legal."

And with that, and his signature, it was over--costing the fan $149 and Shatner a bit of improvisation.

In the latest twist to the age-old practice of handing out celebrity signatures, customers of Live Autographs get not just a signed photograph, book or napkin; they receive a customized video clip with a short personal message from the star.

Other celebrities who have agreed to participate include auto racer Danica Patrick and actress Carmen Electra.

Rough estimates place the value of autographs bought and sold in the United States at $2 billion a year, said Steven Cyrkin, editor and publisher of Autograph magazine. The firm Julien's Auctions last year sold an autographed Marilyn Monroe picture for $18,000.

But with the incidence of fraudulent autographs on the rise, Live Autographs bills itself as a service that helps authenticate the celebrity signature.

Shatner, 77, launched the business on Wednesday, signing pictures, mugs and even a toy "communicator" from "Star Trek," the 1960s TV space adventure that made Shatner a star.

Before starting the taped autograph session, Shatner--whose signature is in high demand from "Star Trek" fans--told Reuters about all the things he has signed at live events.

"Bras and panties and rear ends--that's true--and babies and marriage certificates and checks," he joked.

Shatner has had a sometimes contentious relationship with "Star Trek" devotees, poking fun at fans in a 1986 "Saturday Night Live" skit in which he told a rabid "Trekkie" to "get a life."

Responding on tape to a written query from a Live Autographs customer asking if he would rather captain a starship or be an entertainer, Shatner replied curtly: "I can't even understand your question, but I want you to understand--I'm an actor."

But for others, Shatner was more amiable. In one video, he recorded a wedding announcement for the parents of a couple who secretly got engaged at a "Star Trek" convention.

Many of the autographs were bought as gifts.

"Someone's going to wake up tomorrow morning and on the TV is going to have Shatner saying, 'Hey Johnny, happy birthday.' And they're going to get the shock of their lives," said Live Autographs Chief Executive Officer Rob Dwek.

William Shatner Signs Off On Video Autographs
William Shatner Signs Off On Video Autographs

Photos and Signatures: Fergie, Alice Cooper, Dave Koz and More

2008-08-15T00:25:00.008-04:00

As promised...here's another update from last week.

Last Thursday, I took a road trip to St. Louis as it was "celebrity central" that day. First up was a stop at the Ritz Carlton for a shot at Tom Petty. Although Petty left via the garage on his tour bus and Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench ignored me, I did manage to grab photos with bassist Ron Blair and drummer Steve Ferrone.

Both were coming back to the hotel following an afternoon walk and apparently a trip to a music store (see microphone that Blair is holding).

My next success was a meeting with Stacy Ferguson a.k.a. Fergie as she arrived at Lambert St. Louis International Airport following her cross country flight from Los Angeles. She gladly signed two items for me and the other collectors as she waited on her luggage to arrive. Fergie was in concert the next night at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. I asked her about her role in the upcoming movie, "Nine," and she replied that she was heading to London next week (this week) to begin pre-production work on the flick. Check out the size of those sunglasses...they were the size of dinner plates.

Later in the evening, I returned to Lambert to catch jazz saxophonist Dave Koz as he arrived via American Airlines from Los Angeles. He was in concert the following night at The Pageant in St. Louis. Koz was surprised to see so many collectors greeting him upon his arrival. He signed a photo of us from a previous meeting in St. Louis and took this new photograph. And, he signed lots and lots of autographs for the other collectors.

I also scored a signed CD and CD cover from Alice Cooper as he was departing the Four Seasons hotel for his show at The Pageant. He made a quick exit from the hotel to the waiting transport van; however, he did sign while sitting in the back seat of the van. Alice had broken a couple of ribs the week before and didn't feel like getting out of the van for the photograph.

I also caught up with Billy Bob Thornton as he was walking to his bus following his show at the Ameristar Casino. Unfortunately, he ignored me as security walked him to his tour bus. I waited about 30 minutes thinking he may hop off, but the bus started up and headed out of the garage to his next stop in Kansas City.

Thanks again Kevin!

Fergie, Alice Cooper, Dave Koz
Fergie, Alice Cooper, Dave Koz

Alan Alda Book Signing Events

2008-08-14T12:45:00.003-04:00

Alan Alda, star of TV's "M.A.S.H." and film, will be signing copies of his book Things I Overheard While Talking To Myself at the following locations:

9/9/08 7:00 PM at Barnes & Noble – Broadway. New York, NY.
9/17/08 7:00 PM at Diesel, A Bookstore - West 26th Street. Brentwood, CA.
9/22/08 7:00 PM at Clayton High School – Mark Twain Circle. St. Louis, MO. Books sold by Left Bank Books.
9/23/08 7:30 PM at Temple Judea – Granada Blvd. Coral Gables, FL. Books sold by Books & Books.

Alan Alda Book Signing Events
Alan Alda Book Signing Events

Book Signings & Events

David Beckham Signs With Sharpie

2008-08-14T12:37:00.001-04:00

Long recognised as the celebrity autograph marker of choice, Sharpie brand is partnering with one of the world’s most recognisable celebrities, global sports star David Beckham.

Beckham, whose autograph is among the most sought-after in the world, is now Sharpie’s global ambassador.

Sharpie, a flagship brand of Atlanta, USA-based Newell Rubbermaid, will leverage Beckham’s status as an international sports star to increase awareness of Sharpie not only as the preferred autograph marker, but also its many creative uses.

“Like the Sharpie brand, David embodies individuality and creative expression,” said Sharpie global business unit president Howard Heckes.

“He is the rare athlete who transcends nationality and sport to command worldwide attention, making him the perfect ambassador for Sharpie marker users who are as passionate about the bold mark of a Sharpie as they are about the colours, variety and almost limitless uses of the product.

Heckes says the deal will feature Beckham in a global marketing campaign in key regions around the world, including North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia Pacific.

“I have always enjoyed signing autographs for people, especially since I used to love getting my heroes’ signatures when I was younger,” said Beckham.

“I love to use Sharpie markers, so it’s a natural choice for me to partner with them,” he added.

Sharpie has a long history of sports sponsorships in the United States. Among the top-name athletes Sharpie has previously partnered with are NASCAR’s Dale Earnhardt Jr, Pro Football wide receiver Terrell Owens, Pro Football Hall of Famers Steve Young and Howie Long, and legendary golfers Arnold Palmer and Gary Player.

Many athletes use Sharpie markers to sign autographs because they leave a bold, permanent mark.

Bob Schieffer Book Signing Events

2008-08-13T10:23:00.003-04:00

Bob Schieffer, host of “Face the Nation”, will be signing copies of his new book Bob Schieffer’s America at the following locations:

9/10/08 7:30 PM at Barnes & Noble – Lincoln Triangle. New York, NY.
9/16/08 7:30 PM at Borders Books – Crossroads Center. Baileys Crossroads, VA.
9/17/08 1:00 PM at Barnes & Noble – South University Drive. Fort Worth, TX.
9/18/08 7:00 PM at Barnes & Noble – West Northwest Highway. Dallas, TX.
9/24/08 7:00 PM at the St. Louis County Library – South Lindbergh. St. Louis, MO. Books sold by Left Bank Books.
9/30/08 12:30 PM at Borders Books – State Street. Chicago, IL.

This book will be released on September 9, 2008.

Bob Schieffer Book Signing Events
Bob Schieffer Book Signing Events

Book Signings & Events

Updated Celebrity Addresses

2008-08-12T18:41:00.003-04:00

Courtesy of Autograph Magazine:

Actors

Lee Aakor-P.O. Box 8013, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
Conrad Bain-1230 Chickory Ln., Los Angeles, CA 90049
David Hasselhoff-St. Martin's Press, ATTN: Publicity Dept., 175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010
Christopher McDonald-UTA, 9560 Wilshire Blvd. 5th Fl., Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Kevin Spacey-Joanne Horowitz Mgmt., 3650 Wilshire Blvd. #224, Beverly Hills, CA 90036

Actresses

Cate Blanchett-Sydney Theatre Company, P.O. Box 777, Millers Point NSW 2000, Australia
Zooey Deschanel-Abrams Artists Agency, 9200 Sunset Blvd. 11th Fl., Los Angeles, CA 90069
Kate Hudson-Endeavor Talent Agency, 9601 Wilshire Blvd. 3rd Fl., Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Allison Mack-Innovative Artists, 1505 10th St., Santa Monica, CA 90401
Anita Page-14840 Valerio St., Van Nuys, 91405

Basketball

Benoit Benjamin-28 Morning Grn, San Antonio, TX 78257
Laphonso Ellis-51215 Shannon Brook Ct., Granger, IN 46530
Marty Conlon-180 Woodbine Dr., E. Hampton, NY 11937
Chris Morris-3097 Milford Chase SW, Marietta, GA 30008

Hockey

Joy Corvo-943 Wenonah Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60304
Dallas Eakins-21579 N 81st Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Rick Green-RR 1 Peterborough, ON K9J 6X2 Canada
Mike Mottau-46 Oxbow Ln, Summit, NJ 07901
Justin Williams-10612 Marion Stone Way, Raleigh, NC 27614

Updated Celebrity Addresses
Updated Celebrity Addresses

Collectors' Show Chronicles Celebrities' Descent

2008-08-12T18:01:00.002-04:00

You haven’t seen lonely until you’ve witnessed a real-live Munchkin patiently waiting to sign autographs for cash. Welcome to the last stop on the Yellow Brick Road.

The Munchkin in question is Jerry Maren, 88, who appeared in the 1939 film classic “The Wizard of Oz.” His salary for the movie was $50 a week. Even now, the tiny crinkly actor is easily recognizable as a member of the Lollipop Guild that welcomed Dorothy to Munchkinland (he was the one in green), and might even draw a crowd in downtown Hollywood.

But on this day, during the TV critics tour last month, Marren is behind a folding table, in a roomful of old stars all doing the same thing at the Hollywood Collectors and Celebrities Show – selling their autographs and likenesses to the few people who still remember them.

“Not much of a crowd here today,” Marren grumbled. “Yesterday was worse. People aren’t stopping.” Like most ex-celebs at the show, Marren charged $20 for a signed, glossy photo. Beside him was his equally wee happier wife, wearing a ball cap that says “Munchkin Wife.” “He’s my guy!” she beamed.

And Marren was the biggest star at the surrealistic two-day event at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. It’s a pretty basic setup: Organizers Ray and Sharon, a Florida couple, book the ballroom and take the gate – $20 a day, $30 for both days or free if you stay in the hotel. The stars take what they can get from selling their signatures, or books, posters, glossies, lobby cards, clothing and whatever else they can pass off as memorabilia.

On the star meter, the Hollywood Collectors show is a few notches beneath dinner theater. In fact, most of the stars who show up would give their soul for a dinner-theater gig. The show caters to the serious collector of Hollywood memorabilia, and hundreds of fans faithfully show up.

Take a picture of this: A large hotel ballroom lined with folding tables, the celebs sitting at tables with nameplates. Down one row, there was Brandon Cruz, former child star of TV’s “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father,” now a tough-looking hombre. Next to him, Playboy Playmate Marketa Janska (Miss July 2003), who kept her nude photos for sale discreetly covered; then Asian-American actor James Hong (“Seinfeld” the Chinese Restaurant episode) with photos of the cartoon duck he voiced in the recent hit “Kung Fu Panda.” Eager to call it a day, Hong put up a sign saying, “Leaving half-hour. One-third off.”

Next row, why, it’s Robert Brown, star of the ’60s TV hit “Here Come the Brides,” who seemed on the verge of nodding off. And isn’t that Marya Small, now Mews Small, who played the hooker Jack Nicholson brings on the boat in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”?

The collectors looked, well, exactly like collectors: Males, normally older than 40 and most wearing plaid shirts. Many brought their own photos for the stars to sign.

The inclusion of horror stars in the show inevitably brought enthusiastic devotees.

“I came here to get Leatherface (actor Robert Mihailoff of ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre III’ renown), but getting Jason (Kane Hodder) was a huge surprise, huge,” says Robert, a 40-something collector who made the long drive in from California’s Redondo Beach.

As a first-time signer, Tori Spelling drew a crowd, but she didn’t look very happy. It was around this time last summer that the celebu-couple – she and husband, actor Dean McDermott – were seemingly on top of the world with their cable reality series, “Tori and Dean: Inn Love.”

One year later, Tori and Dean were in Burbank, wearing forced smiles while bartering with fans over the price of signed glossies. The fall to the bottom can happen that fast in Hollywood.

'Autographs? I don't get paid for them - so I don't sign them'... The Obsession With Money That Haunts Sean Connery

2008-08-11T18:20:00.002-04:00

This month, Sean Connery releases his autobiography charting his rise from a poor Scottish bodybuilder to one of Hollywood's most charismatic leading men. But insiders suggest the book will be highly sanitised - glossing over the darker side of this complex, brooding man. In part two of a major series, the Mail reveals how his hardnosed attitude to money struck fear into the film moguls who made him a star.

The premiere of Goldfinger in London's Leicester Square produced a stampede of 5,000 women fans who smashed through the plate-glass entrance of the Odeon cinema in a frenzy of flailing handbags and hormones.

The object of their affection, the film's star Sean Connery, had not even bothered to turn up. Undaunted, his deranged followers stole life-size cut-outs of their idol from the foyer and made off with the movie's posters. Continued...'Autographs? I don't get paid for them - so I don't sign them'

Tommy Chong at Bryant Park, NYC

2008-08-11T17:44:00.002-04:00

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Word for Word: Tommy Chong of the Duo Cheech & Chong

Talk & Booksigning

Actor, comedian, musician, Tommy Chong touts his latest book venture, ‘Cheech & Chong: The Unauthorized Autobiography’. Keenly insightful and utterly candid, Chong provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of one of the most popular comedy teams of all time. Hosted by: Josh Gilbert, Director of the Documentary ‘AKA Tommy Chong’.

The event is FREE and open to the public. For updates and additional information, please visit the website at www.bryantpark.org or call 212-768-4242. The Bryant Park Reading Room located on the 42nd Street side of the park - under the trees - between the back of the NYPL & 6th Avenue. Look for the burgundy and white umbrellas. Rain Venue: Library of the General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen, 20 West 44th Street (between 5th & 6th Avenue).

AutographAlert.com Has More Questions For PSA/DNA

2008-08-10T20:53:00.002-04:00

Hobby watchdog AutographAlert.com has posted a challenge to several authenticators at PSA/DNA in light of another significant error that has been discovered on a lot listed in the latest Mastro auction catalog.

For all the particulars, please go to AutographAlert.com

Joan Jett, Gilbert Gottfried Greet and Sign Autographs

2008-08-10T11:13:00.004-04:00

Just back from a quick and successful trip to St. Louis...Kevin

I caught up with rocker Joan Jett as she and her band mate/manager, Ken Laguana, arrived on their flight at Lambert St. Louis International Airport from New York. As she waited for luggage, Joan signed a couple of 8 x 10s and posed for this photograph. She signed 8 x 10s and albums for other collectors, but passed on the request to sign pick guards. Laguana said, "We've been burned on those before, so she's not signing any."

About 30 minutes later, I was at the Argosy Casino in Alton, Illinois, to get an autograph on a photo from a previous meeting with comedian Gilbert Gottfried. He was in concert for the second of two weekend shows. My friend, Mark, was able to secure comp tickets for us, and we were able to enjoy his 50-minute routine which was "over the top!" I still hurt from laughing so much. Following his performance, Gilbert signed autographs at his merchandise table. He remembered our previous encounter and gladly signed the photo and an 8 x 10 photo of the Aflack Duck (he does the voice). Since it was a casino, I couldn't get a new photo inside. Gilbert said meet me outside when I leave and I'll be happy to take a new photo. True to his word, he stopped for this photograph and even thanked me for waiting.

Stay tuned for another update on this past week's activities.

New Shows Promote Interest in TV Memorabilia / Autographs

2008-08-09T19:04:00.004-04:00

A new trend in thought provoking television has renewed an old interest in collecting. New shows like Dexter, The Tudors, The Closer, Saving Grace and John Adams have given new life to memorabilia as people look for interesting pieces of memorabilia for collecting or to give as gifts.

Television and movie memorabilia have been collected and traded for decades but as the quality of shows declined so did interest. However, the new trend in thought provoking television shows has sparked a growing interest in the memorabilia from those shows. When "Rome" and "Deadwood" were first aired it became apparent that people were going to be interested in collecting items inspired by the shows. Shoppers began requesting clothing, money, and even weapons and armor as well as the usual autographed photo. Now with, "The Tudors" and "John Adams", interest in television memorabilia has increased dramatically and left retailers scrambling to find suppliers to help fill the demand.

Whether it is a blood spattered "Dexter" T-Shirt, a Tudor style cloak and dagger, or an autographed picture, buying a piece favorite television show or movie is becoming ever more popular. Although, while it is difficult to predict the future of television programming it is safe to say that television memorabilia is always going to make for interesting collecting and gifts.

New Shows Promote Interest in TV Memorabilia / Autographs
New Shows Promote Interest in TV Memorabilia / Autographs

Collectables: Madonna and Penny Blacks Beat Inflation

2008-08-09T19:01:00.001-04:00

Stanley Gibbons, the stamps and historical signatures dealer, has seen profits rise thanks to investors switching to "recession-proof" collectables as a hedge against soaring inflation.

Martin Bralsford, chairman, said: "The benefits of investing in collectables as an alternative asset class have never been clearer. Not only do rare stamps and historical signatures provide a means of diversification and a safe haven in difficult economic conditions but also provide a hedge against inflation."

He said because collecting was an "all-consuming passion", prices of rare stamps and signatures showed no correlation with stocks, property or other traditional investments. Collectables had risen the most during high inflation, he argued.

The world's oldest stamp dealership reported yesterday a 6% rise in profits before tax to £1.8m for the first half of the year. Sales of its rare stamps, autographs and memorabilia climbed 12% to £9.8m.

Papers with Henry VIII's signature went for £50,000 each, while Einstein's autograph now fetches £6,000, Audrey Hepburn's goes for £1,750 and even Madonna's has risen by 156% since 1997 to £895.

The share of online sales - £2.37m - doubled to nearly a quarter of the total after the firm redesigned its website. The shares jumped 8.5p, or 5.4%, to 166p as the interim dividend was raised by 14% to 2p a share. The firm noted that there had been a 39% rise in the past year in its GB30 index of the rarest British stamps. Its Fraser's 100 index of autographs has shown a 280% return over the last 11 years.

The firm wants to start a stamp fund next year and hopes to buy large collections coming on to the market.

Collectables: Madonna and Penny Blacks Beat Inflation
Collectables: Madonna and Penny Blacks Beat Inflation

Young Golf Collector at Firestone Country Club

2008-08-08T17:44:00.003-04:00

"Last year, I was standing over there, near the clubhouse, and said, ‘Mr. [Sergio] Garcia, can I please have your glove?’” said Hannah. “And he said, ‘What’s your name? I’ll meet you tomorrow and give you my glove.’ The next day, after he was done golfing, he took his glove off and gave it to me and he remembered my name."

Hannah Grunstein, 11, of Green, loves collecting autographs and pieces of memorabilia at the World Golf Championships — Bridgestone Invitational, which took place July 31 through Aug. 3 at Firestone Country Club. She discovered the memories of the golfers are as good as their game.

Hannah Grunstein, of Green, holds up an oversized golf ball with some of the signatures she obtained during this year’s World Golf Championships — Bridgestone Invitational.

Another golfer with a photographic memory is the winner of the last two British Opens.

“Two years ago, there was an article about how Hannah got pictures of the golfers and then had them sign them,” said Hannah’s father, Dave. “We were out to dinner, and Padraig Harrington happened to sit next to us. He had signed her photo that day, and he looked over to her and said, ‘Hi, Hannah. I read your article.’”

Recently Listed - Signed 8x10 Photos

2008-08-08T15:56:00.004-04:00

Leona Lewis Autograph 8x10 Photo

Taylor Swift Autograph 8x10 Photo

Robert Downey, Jr. (Ironman) Autograph 8x10 Photos

Will Smith (Hancock) Autograph 8x10 Photo

Steve Carell / Anne Hathaway / Dwayne Johnson (Get Smart) Autograph 8x10 Photo

Megan Fox Autograph 8x10 Photos

Bon Jovi Group Autograph 8x10 Photo - Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, David Bryan and Tico Torres

Aaliyah Dana Haughton (Aaliyah) Autograph 8x10 Photo

...or go to our website at Strickler's Celebrity Autographs and use the search tool to find your favorite celebrity! Have a question? Give us a call at 410-241-5974

Recently Listed - Signed 8x10 Photos
Recently Listed - Signed 8x10 Photos

Upcoming Signing Events - August-October 2008

2008-08-07T16:52:00.004-04:00

New Kids on the Block, pop superstars, performing & signing copies of The Block
8/8/08 5:30 PM in the Rotunda – Mall of America. Bloomington, MN.

Danny Aiello, Oscar nominated star of “Do the Right Thing”, signing copies of Bridges
8/13/08 7:00 PM at Borders Books – Columbus Circle. New York, NY.

Chris Lemmon, star of “Thunder In Paradise” and “Open House”, signing copies of A Twist of Lemmon
8/13/08 7:00 PM at Borders Books – Park Avenue. New York, NY.

Leslie Jordan, star of “Will & Grace” and “Sordid Lives”, signing copies of My Trip Down The Pink Carpet
8/15/08 7:30 PM at A Different Light Bookstore - Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA.

Harmon Killebrew & Carlos Gomez, former & current Minnesota Twins stars, will be signing autographs.
8/16/08 7:00 PM in the Rotunda – Mall of America. Bloomington, MN.

Peter Yarrow, member of Peter, Paul and Mary, signing copies of Puff the Magic Dragon
8/16/08 2:00 PM at Barnes & Noble – Peachtree Road NE. Atlanta, GA.

Billie Jean King, tennis legend, signing copies of Pressure Is A Privilege
8/19/08 7:00 PM at Borders Books – Columbus Circle. New York, NY

Dana Carvey, star of “Saturday Night Live” and “Wayne’s World”, signing copies of Squatting Monkeys Tell No Lies
8/19/08 6:00 PM at the Virgin Megastore – Stockton Street. San Francisco, CA.

The Cheetah Girls, Disney Channel pop stars, signing copies of One World
8/19/08 6:00 PM at the Virgin Megastore – Times Square. New York, NY.

Brent Spiner, Data on “Star Trek: The Next Generation”, signing copies of Dreamland
8/27/08 12:30 PM at J&R Music – Park Row. New York, NY.

Pat Summerall, former NY Giants star and CBS broadcaster, signing copies of The 50 Greatest Plays: The New York Giants
9/5/08 6:00 PM at Bookends - East Ridgewood Ave. Ridgewood, NJ.

Tom Hulce, star of “Amadeus” and “Animal House”, signing copies of Spring Awakening: In the Flesh
9/15/08 5:00 PM at Barnes & Noble –Lincoln Triangle. New York, NY.

Edd Byrnes, star of “77 Sunset Strip”, signing copies of Kookie No More
9/18/08 – 9/20/08 9Am -5PM at the Mid-Atlantic Nostalgia Convention at the Clarion Hotel. Aberdeen, MD.

Kathleen Hughes, star of “It Came From Outer Space”, signing copies of Tales From the Casting Couch
9/18/08 – 9/20/08 9Am -5PM at the Mid-Atlantic Nostalgia Convention at the Clarion Hotel. Aberdeen, MD.

Natalie Cole, Grammy winning songstress, signing copies of Still Unforgettable
9/18/08 7:00 PM at Borders Books – Westwood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA.

Carey Hart, freestyle motorcycle champion, signing copies of Inked: The Life of the Tattoo
9/22/08 7:00 PM at Book Soup - Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, CA.

Alec Baldwin, star of stage and screen, signing copies of A Promise To Ourselves
9/23/08 7:30 PM at Barnes & Noble – Lincoln Triangle. New York, NY.

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, signing copies of Tea For Ruby
9/30/08 6:00 PM at Borders Books – Columbus Circle. New York, NY.

Rick Pitino, famed college & professional basketball coach, signing copies of Rebound Rules
10/11/08 10:00 AM at Barnes & Noble – Summit Plaza Drive. Louisville, KY.

Robert Vaughn, star of “The Man From UNCLE”, signing copies of A Fortunate Life
10/15/08 7:30 PM at Barnes & Noble – Lincoln Triangle. New York, NY.

Richard Belzer, star of “Homicide” and “Law & Order: SVU”, signing copies of I Am Not a Cop
10/21/08 7:30 PM at Barnes & Noble – Lincoln Triangle. New York, NY.

Amy Sedaris, star of “Strangers With Candy”, signing copies of I Like You
10/23/08 7:30 PM at Barnes & Noble – Grove Drive. Los Angeles, CA.

Ashley & Mary Kate Olsen, stars of “Full House”, signing copies of Influence
10/28/08 12:30 AM at Barnes & Noble – Union Square. New York, NY.

Upcoming Signing Events - August-October 2008
Upcoming Signing Events - August-October 2008

Book Signings & Events

Collecting Celebrity Autographs By Mail

2008-08-06T01:24:00.004-04:00

Reprinted from internet:

Here's how it works. You find a mailing address for your favorite celebrity. You write her or him a letter, and politely ask for an autograph. You enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. You wait. If your letter was well received, you may receive an autograph back in the mail. It's entirely up to the celebrity.

Believe it or not, many celebrities respond to this type of autograph request. It is categorized as "fan mail", and it's one way celebrities keep in touch with their fan base.

During the 1980s and 1990s, I wrote thousands of letters to celebrities. They sure did respond! I amassed tons of great autographs. Sure, there were some fakes among the bunch. But a high percentage were authentic. I received signed index cards, signed photos, signed magazines, signed books, even signed sketches and handwritten letters with interesting content. Celebrities from all walks of life responded, including actors, actresses, musicians, astronauts, scientists, athletes, writers, even U.S. Presidents.

First, you have to find a source for celebrity addresses. Sometimes you can find books and magazines on eBay to discover addresses. There are other address sources on the internet, and you can even try the library for biographical directories like "Who's Who In America".

Don't be surprised if you find multiple addresses for the same celebrity. Sometimes they have personal offices, fan club offices, management offices, publicity offices, etc. If you really want their autograph, then write to every address. Many years ago, I had multiple addresses for Leonard Nimoy, but the only one that returned autographs was the address for his accountant.

Second, you have to write a good autograph request letter. It must be legible, and it should be simple, no more than one page. Here's a sample letter you could send to almost any celebrity:

"Dear Mr. Johnson,

"You are one of my favorite actors of all-time. You've been in some great movies. My favorites include "Michael the Heroic Scribe" and "Michael vs. Freddie Part 7". Could you please send me your autograph? I have enclosed a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Thanks for your time. I look forward to your next movie!"

When writing to celebrities, it helps to mention something personal in your letter. Why do you like a particular celebrity, or a certain movie? Share your thoughts in the letter. This type of feedback is helpful to celebrities. You can even enclose poems or original art related to the celebrity. Your goal is to write a letter that stands out from the usual fan mail pile. Popular celebrities don't have time to respond to every letter; only the best make the cut.

Third, you need to enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. This makes it easy for a celebrity to respond. All they need to do is place their autograph in your envelope, and it's done. If you send a small envelope, you'll receive a small autograph. A big envelope yields a bigger autograph. For example, if you enclose a 9" x 12" self-addressed envelope, with enough postage for up to two ounces (two first class stamps), you will probably receive back an 8" x 10" autographed photo. If you send just a #10 envelope with one first class stamp, you may only receive a 3 1/2" x 5" signed photo.

Fourth, you must be patient. After sending your letter, all you can do is wait. Through my experiences, writing to celebrities in diverse fields, I discovered the following:

*More than half the celebrities you write will respond
*More than half the celebrity responses will yield an autograph
*About a fourth of the celebrity responses send fake autographs
*About a fourth of the celebrity responses either decline to sign, or they send info about how to purchase autographs (often through a charity)
*Celebrities respond equally well to hand-written letters versus typed letters, so don't sweat getting writer's cramp
*The average celebrity responded in about three weeks; some took a few days, others took years
*Don't hold your breath for autographs if you're writing to the most current, hottest celebrities. They probably get tens of thousands of pieces of mail every week! The best responses come from celebrities who are outside the spotlight, such as new talent not yet discovered, and old talent partially forgotten.

Fifth, you should keep track of your efforts, to capitalize on your successes. When you discover a celebrity who responds, you can write them periodically for autographs. You can send them items, like magazines and movie posters, and many times they will autograph and return the items to you. You can build a deep and varied collection of autographs, one celebrity at a time, if you want.

In a few wonderful instances, you may even receive celebrity letters with not just an autograph, but interesting and personal content. Then you become more than a collector of history--you actually help create history.

Once I wrote hundreds of letters to a diverse group of celebrities, asking them if there had been any books which inspired them in their lives. I was pleased to receive dozens of replies, most of them letters with content. Each letter offered a glimpse into the celebrity mind. One person, comedian Phyllis Diller, even sent me an autographed copy of the very book which inspired her. The sum of all those letters gave me a great perspective on inspiration. I reflect on those lessons from time to time, as I seek inspiration in my own life.

Another time, I wrote dozens of letters to war heroes, asking them how winning the Congressional Medal of Honor had changed their lives. Like many guys, I always fantasized about being a hero, but this gave me a reality check. Their responses were particularly moving. Suddenly, that collection of autographs became more than an artifact--it became an archive of living history. I've since shared the letters with my son, because he's interesting in military things and wars, and I want him to know what it was really like.

I love autograph collecting, where fresh wisdom springs forth among dusty collectibles. Good luck with your own collection! Whether you buy autographs, or beg for them, it's always a fun hobby.