Adrian Peterson headlines Sun-Times roster

NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Adrian Peterson, all-time rushing leader Emmitt Smith and newly elected hall of famers Rich Gossage and Dick Williams are among the headline autograph guests scheduled to appear this weekend at the Chicago Sun-Times Show in Rosemont, Ill. Mounted Memories, which purchased ownership of the show last year, is again providing the autograph lineup for the event.

Friday Night is Customer Appreciation Night, with all autographs costing $15 and including such greats as Dave Parker, better known as “The Cobra,” Steve Garvey, the National League MVP for 1974 and Cubs Superstar Dave Kingman.

“The Sun-Times Shows are the two biggest shows in the hobby,” said Brian Schwartz, the president of Northbrook-based Schwartz Sports, the co-promoter of the show. “I think our autograph lineup is comparable to any show in the nation, including The National. This show attracts all of the big dealers, from all across the country.”

In addition, several card and memorabilia grading companies will be present, along with most major auction companies who will be accepting consignments. Upper Deck will also have a corporate booth at the show with giveaways and displays.

The show also will feature the debut of Mounted’s Photo-Op Booth where fans can get a professional 8-by-10 photo of themselves taken and immediately printed with select athletes – and also get it signed. The list of athletes available for Photo-Ops include Dave Kingman, Barry Sanders, Mike Schmidt, Andre Dawson, Andre Rison, Charles Woodson, Gale Sayers and Bobby Hull.

“This is the first time we’re doing Photo-Ops, so we want to make sure it is run smoothly and, if so, I’m sure we’ll expand it going forward,” Schwartz said. “This is just one way we’re trying to offer a more memorable card show experience, particularly for the hard-core fans of these athletes.”