SportsFest to host lineup of Chicago stars and more

On June 6-8, SportsFest 2008 is bringing the excitement of sports cards and memorabilia, in addition to an impressive autograph lineup, to the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center in Schaumburg, Ill.

“F+W Publications is very excited to bring a huge autograph lineup to the Schaumburg area,” said Dean Listle, publisher of SCD. “Not only do we have headlining guests, but we are also offering $15 autographs on select guests all weekend, so there’s something for everyone.”

This is the second year SportsFest has been held at the Schaumburg facility, and in addition to a very accessible, customer-friendly venue, parking is free.

“We have never hosted an event in a better building than the Renaissance,” said Listle. “Right down to the convention food and the free parking, everything about the location is very impressive.”

Chicago-area autograph guests include Mike Singletary, Paul Konerko, Ron Kittle, Jermaine Dye, Nick Swisher, Buddy Ryan and others, in addition to Pete Rose, Johnny Bench and Tony Perez of the Big Red Machine.

More than 35 autograph guests will be in attendance (see sidebar), with more names being announced. For a complete list please visit www.sportscollectorsdigest.com and click on the “SHOWS” tab.

In addition to signing opportunities, collectors will also have a chance to buy, sell and trade with the largest sports card and memorabilia dealers in the country. Hundreds of tables have been sold, with a few still remaining.

“For this only being our second year at the convention center, it’s amazing how great the dealer response has been,” said Listle. “We nearly have the entire show floor sold out, and I anticipate a strong vintage card and memorabilia presence. Also, Upper Deck will have a redemption program, a feature that is always very popular with modern card collectors.”

Another popular feature that SportsFest is bringing back is “What’s it Worth Day,” which will take place from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday. Bob Lemke, former editor of SCD’s Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards, and SCD columnist Chris Nerat will be on hand to give free card and memorabilia appraisals to anyone who walks through the door.

Visit www.sportscollectorsdigest.com/sportsfest for more information.