2008 Scotty Convention Recap

After almost a week, I think I have recovered from the 2008 Scotty Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio. This was the 25th year of the Scotty Convention and I must say that we celebrated in style. I've only gone to the past 7; however, there are several people who have attended all 25.

If you are there early on Wednesday, it is all about visiting and shopping. The "vendors" and other rooms are open as people roam and visit.

After the Welcome Reception on Wednesday evening, we were off and running to shop -- called "Room Hoping." As I was having a Scotty Garage Sale, I had to make a mad dash to Jim Foltz's room to snag a new piece of Bakelite jewelry. Luckily he was on my floor, so I was able to then open my door (without missing too many customers).

A "newbie" (a new person to the Scotty Convention) found me and liked the deals I was making on my Scottie stuff. When I say "garage sale," I mean "garage sale." Everything is priced to move from my room to yours.

Thursday morning started bright and early with a Scotty parade. No sleeping through this one as there was a Bagpiper. There were at least 54 Scottys counted in the parade.

We then all gathered for the opening remarks and "Show and Share." There were a wide variety of items shared. My favorite was the artist's proof set of a new Fala book to be released later this year.

My seminar on "Inventorying your Scotty Collection" was after lunch.

Thursday evening was the auction. There were some really great pieces in the auction this year including several Kirmse prints that went for a lot of $.

Friday was the "Sale-a-thon." It is a big Scotty Swap Meet. I, of course, had my Scotty art work for sale. I also picked up a Salt & Pepper Shaker for my collection.

Friday afternoon we played Bingo. You could have heard a pin drop as everyone listened for the numbers in an effort to win fabulous "Scotty" prizes.

After a bit of a rest (yeah, right), we gathered again to look at and identify Scotty pieces. I think the hottest discussion was about a metal Scotty pin that had a small "purse" attached. Apparently it was to hold stamps. Several thought it might be for tokens.

Saturday morning was the Old Displays. As usual, there was a lot of creativity and tremendous effort put forth to show and educate others on the Scotty collectibles that are out there. I applaud each and every one of them.

In the afternoon, Marion and Fred Krupp did a presentation on Barney and Miss Beazley at the White House. Marion has been commissioned to do many pieces of art work of the First Pets. Despite your political views, these Scottys will win your vote every time.

The Scotty fashion show happens after dinner. The costumes and creativity are absolutely wonderful. Then it is time for us to say good-bye.

A special thanks to the Cincinnati Scotty Friends for putting together such a wonderful program.
Hope to see you there next year. Mark your calendar - the convention will be June 24 - 27.