My National Recap (Longest read of your life!)

messier2 · 07-30-2022, 06:57 PM

Ok, not the longest, but still. Hard to recap the week in a few sentences, so here goes.

As I type this, I look out of my hotel window to the Boardwalk, beach, sounds of seagulls, and great memories of the last few days!

This was my fourth National, my second as a full week attendee, and it was a blast! For me, this is a break from reality. A break from the grind of commuting to work everyday, stress from my job, just the everyday stuff we all deal with in what we call the game of life.

My expectations coming in were not high, but were not low either. Somewhere in the middle. I knew prices would not be cheap, not the slightest, so I was not surprised. This also was my chance to be with like-minded people and just talk cards all week. Everyone speaks the same language no matter where you are from. We all speak card, and it was awesome!

I'm going to do this recap in sections. In no particular order.

Venue

I liked the CC. It was bright, wide aisles, I could feel the AC pretty strong in some parts. But, it was never hot or uncomfortable. Yes, the WIFI/LTE sucked, but for me, it just took a bit longer. But, it was never down or anything like that. You just have to be more patient and wait it out. I liked this venue more the Rosemont. Rosemont was a better location, but this CC was better overall.

The People- Attendees/Dealers/Everyone

Like I said earlier, it's the people that make/break an event. You are surrounded by people who have the same passion as you. People who do this for fun (like me), for business, for pleasure, whatever the case. Everyone was super friendly. I did not see a "grumpy" dealer or anyone that wished they were somewhere else. The chatting while on line at PSA for me was great. Chatting about cards submitted, the hobby itself, Nat, PSA/BGS, etc. was great and makes time fly by even when the line was moving ever so slightly.

The Prices

Yes, prices were high. No secret there. I don't mind high prices as long as its negotiable. It's tough being a dealer, I get it. Long days, and crazy people coming up to you wanting full comps or above! I would be frustrated too. But, I just wish many were more flexible on pricing. Even giving a few bucks off would make a buyer feel good and complete the sale. $5 off, $10 off, $15 off, $20 off, whatever it is. At least you show the buyer that you want to make this sale and are willing to find a price where both parties are happy.

The Breakers

The breakers were there in full force. Loud and proud. Very celebrity-like as the Backyard Breaks guys were being asked for selfies all day today. All good from me, as they have created a following by ripping sports cards? Kudos to them!

AC

Well, I know there is a lot of hate on AC. But, this is AC! As I posted before, just being aware of your surroundings and you should be fine. It's not a town where you can just wander anywhere you want especially at night. But, it is what it is. I would love the National to be on the east coast every year, but there has to be a better venue for the organizer (still cheap enough with lots of hotels) so they can still make money.

The Food

The only negative personally for me was the food. It's very hard for me mentally and physically to eat the kinds of food I ate this whole week. Absolute unhealthy garbage. I can do it for a day, maybe a weekend. But, more than that and my body starts to signal to me "like what's up?!". I can't do burgers, fries, cheesesteaks, fried food everyday. I just can't! That's one of the reasons I chose to go home tomorrow. There is no healthy options anywhere and I can't do it anymore! I usually follow a strict regiment during the weekdays and I broke all the rules this week! I honestly feel I gained like 10 pounds! It's totally insane!

Well, I think I covered everything! Happy to answer any questions.

Back

To

Reality

Last sleep night and I'm out early tomorrow...no breakfast!

tconte · 07-30-2022, 08:17 PM

Great write up. Thank you for sharing your experience.

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Cousin Jethroe · 07-31-2022, 06:48 AM

yes... nice recap

Selanne00008 · 07-31-2022, 07:51 AM

As for food. Maybe if it’s really getting to you, take an Uber to a healthy spot?

Idk if noodles of the world counts. But NOW is delicious when I’m over at Borgata. Give yourself a one hour mental break too.

Great write up! Like the positive energy. It’s what the hobby needs with all the negative Nancy’s around.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

the mesiah · 07-31-2022, 08:31 AM

Thanks for the write up , I’ve been to a National once in Chicago several years ago and these write ups gives me the thought of going again at times but then not because of all I’ve heard about ..sounds like you had a good stress free week away from reality tho.

packman80 · 07-31-2022, 09:10 AM

People wanted pics with Broke Back Mountain Breakers? Why would anyone want a pic with those fools? Anyone liking those idiots must not have have any self respect.

kobemagee29 · 07-31-2022, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by packman80

People wanted pics with Broke Back Mountain Breakers? Why would anyone want a pic with those fools? Anyone liking those idiots must not have have any self respect.

I'm sure its all staged like it is with Panini hooking up certain breakers

N8theGR8 · 07-31-2022, 09:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by packman80

People wanted pics with Broke Back Mountain Breakers? Why would anyone want a pic with those fools? Anyone liking those idiots must not have have any self respect.

They’re loud, wild, and were giving away thousands of dollars of stuff to the crowd. The younger crowd eats that stuff up. I’m not a fan, but I did get some free hobby packs haha.

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2010GBPackers · 07-31-2022, 12:51 PM

Great write-up, messier2. I'm in full agreement with you regarding the Rosemont CC. Love the location, hate the CC.

There's got to be healthier food somewhere in AC, no?

Hopefully, I'll see you next year when it's back in CHI!

strider_boi · 08-01-2022, 01:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by packman80

People wanted pics with Broke Back Mountain Breakers? Why would anyone want a pic with those fools? Anyone liking those idiots must not have have any self respect.

They walked to my table trying to get a discount saying they are famous… I just ignored the idiot wearing a crop top

packman80 · 08-01-2022, 05:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by strider_boi

They walked to my table trying to get a discount saying they are famous… I just ignored the idiot wearing a crop top

That's what thise idiot social influncer's do now. Demand a discount or more likely something free saying hey give it to me free and I will give you a shout out.

Wonder what happens when these idiots will be in their 30s-40s and no one cares about them anymore and they have zero life skills to do anything with their life anymore.

DajuanWagner · 08-01-2022, 09:06 AM

I heard that food was the best part of the Nationals

and that card prices were the worse part of the Nationals.....3-4x ebay comps.

hammerva · 08-01-2022, 11:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DajuanWagner

I heard that food was the best part of the Nationals

and that card prices were the worse part of the Nationals.....3-4x ebay comps.

Based on your expectations. I think most people thought the convention center food would be same old crap and it wasn't at all. I think most people thought the dealers would have some good deals and except for a few it wasn't at all

messier2 · 08-01-2022, 07:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DajuanWagner

I heard that food was the best part of the Nationals

and that card prices were the worse part of the Nationals.....3-4x ebay comps.

Yes, the food was flowing! Hot dogs and burger for everyone! lol

messier2 · 07-31-2022, 03:09 PM

Made it home a few hours ago. Glad to be home and reality hits you when you step back into your apartment. It's like I was transported back from fantasy-land and into the craziness of the eve of Monday morning!

Thanks for the nice words on the write-up. I try (emphasize on the word TRY) to always look at the positive to everything and paint a picture for those that were not able to make it.

As for the food, noodles are no good too. I just needed something light, easy on the stomach (not too greasy), but still made you full!

messier2 · 07-31-2022, 03:09 PM

All the influencers had selfie requests all meeting:

Gary V
Roth
Geoff
Sasha T
Backyard Breaks
DonDiego
"That girl with "no legs" and only boobs showing on IG"...she got a following too that wants selfies from her!

sonnyday · 07-31-2022, 03:27 PM

I feel ya on the poor food selections. Cheese Steaks and Cheese Burgers for 3 days straight is no joke. I am going to take a nap in the Sauna tonight and try to sweat it out along with all the other toxins i put into my body.

To top it off, the wife is making Ravioli and Garlic Bread for Sunday Dinner.

sonnyday · 07-31-2022, 03:27 PM

I feel ya on the poor food selections. Cheese Steaks and Cheese Burgers for 3 days straight is no joke. I am going to take a nap in the Sauna tonight and try to sweat it out along with all the other toxins i put into my body.

To top it off, the wife is making Ravioli and Garlic Bread for Sunday Dinner.

Cannae · 07-31-2022, 06:25 PM

I had a great time -- everyone was very friendly and welcoming. The only complaint I had was the lack of cell service. Thankfully I had done some prep before coming and knew comps, but there were so many great cards I hadn't thought of before leaving home that I needed to walk outside to get comps.

PLB9eight · 07-31-2022, 08:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cannae

I had a great time -- everyone was very friendly and welcoming. The only complaint I had was the lack of cell service. Thankfully I had done some prep before coming and knew comps, but there were so many great cards I hadn't thought of before leaving home that I needed to walk outside to get comps.

Same experience for me. I wrote down prices for stuff I was looking for but ran into a lot of stuff unexpectedly that I was unable to check.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

boxbuster7 · 07-31-2022, 07:04 PM

Always enjoy reading your posts messier

Blanketcards · 08-01-2022, 09:29 AM

Great show and venue was great but the city and area was just old and grimy imo. Prices were stupid high on the high end but the commodity stuff was fair. Dealers were great and would work with you if you were a cash buyer as it seemed like everyone was trying to trade the first 3 days and not alot of cash buyers was my perspective. Got some great deals and picked up 2 of the 4 grail cards I was looking for before I got there. Sunday was really interesting and it seemed everyone was trying to buy. Sold a ton on Sunday and secured a deal for one more grail. Hope to never go back to AC and walk around zombie land again if possible but it was certainly a life exposure for my 16 year old to stay away from drugs! Caesars was not what I am expected or used to but overall was adequate. Food choices were good but a little difficult at times without reservations but we made it through. Was very surprised that trade nights were still in full swing as I was concerned that the casino would not allow congregating in the lobbies.

Hockey24xx · 08-01-2022, 09:32 AM

I walked around doing redemptions all 5 days and I honestly can say I didnt encounter a single rude person. Every single person I came across was friendly which made for a real pleasant week. The big guy at Panini doing redemptions was probably the rudest person I met the whole show and he always has that demeanor.

checkoutmypc · 08-01-2022, 10:56 AM

Any dealer who had a bad show needs to retire.

No if’s, and’s or but’s.

Every dealer in the hot corner exceeded their sales from last year.

Because they had liquid inventory priced at or below comps and weren’t a dickhead to younger kids who came by.

It’s really not rocket science.

Can’t stand the negativity regarding the show. Everyone and their mother knew AC is a hole; complaining about it retroactively just looks stupid. Perception is reality.

Neal · 08-01-2022, 11:01 AM

Thanks for sharing!

Sent from my SM-G998U using Tapatalk

07-30-2022, 06:57 PM	#1
messier2 Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Posts: 15,296	My National Recap (Longest read of your life!) Ok, not the longest, but still. Hard to recap the week in a few sentences, so here goes. As I type this, I look out of my hotel window to the Boardwalk, beach, sounds of seagulls, and great memories of the last few days! This was my fourth National, my second as a full week attendee, and it was a blast! For me, this is a break from reality. A break from the grind of commuting to work everyday, stress from my job, just the everyday stuff we all deal with in what we call the game of life. My expectations coming in were not high, but were not low either. Somewhere in the middle. I knew prices would not be cheap, not the slightest, so I was not surprised. This also was my chance to be with like-minded people and just talk cards all week. Everyone speaks the same language no matter where you are from. We all speak card, and it was awesome! I'm going to do this recap in sections. In no particular order. Venue I liked the CC. It was bright, wide aisles, I could feel the AC pretty strong in some parts. But, it was never hot or uncomfortable. Yes, the WIFI/LTE sucked, but for me, it just took a bit longer. But, it was never down or anything like that. You just have to be more patient and wait it out. I liked this venue more the Rosemont. Rosemont was a better location, but this CC was better overall. The People- Attendees/Dealers/Everyone Like I said earlier, it's the people that make/break an event. You are surrounded by people who have the same passion as you. People who do this for fun (like me), for business, for pleasure, whatever the case. Everyone was super friendly. I did not see a "grumpy" dealer or anyone that wished they were somewhere else. The chatting while on line at PSA for me was great. Chatting about cards submitted, the hobby itself, Nat, PSA/BGS, etc. was great and makes time fly by even when the line was moving ever so slightly. The Prices Yes, prices were high. No secret there. I don't mind high prices as long as its negotiable. It's tough being a dealer, I get it. Long days, and crazy people coming up to you wanting full comps or above! I would be frustrated too. But, I just wish many were more flexible on pricing. Even giving a few bucks off would make a buyer feel good and complete the sale. $5 off, $10 off, $15 off, $20 off, whatever it is. At least you show the buyer that you want to make this sale and are willing to find a price where both parties are happy. The Breakers The breakers were there in full force. Loud and proud. Very celebrity-like as the Backyard Breaks guys were being asked for selfies all day today. All good from me, as they have created a following by ripping sports cards? Kudos to them! AC Well, I know there is a lot of hate on AC. But, this is AC! As I posted before, just being aware of your surroundings and you should be fine. It's not a town where you can just wander anywhere you want especially at night. But, it is what it is. I would love the National to be on the east coast every year, but there has to be a better venue for the organizer (still cheap enough with lots of hotels) so they can still make money. The Food The only negative personally for me was the food. It's very hard for me mentally and physically to eat the kinds of food I ate this whole week. Absolute unhealthy garbage. I can do it for a day, maybe a weekend. But, more than that and my body starts to signal to me "like what's up?!". I can't do burgers, fries, cheesesteaks, fried food everyday. I just can't! That's one of the reasons I chose to go home tomorrow. There is no healthy options anywhere and I can't do it anymore! I usually follow a strict regiment during the weekdays and I broke all the rules this week! I honestly feel I gained like 10 pounds! It's totally insane! Well, I think I covered everything! Happy to answer any questions. Back To Reality Last sleep night and I'm out early tomorrow...no breakfast!

07-30-2022, 08:17 PM	#2
tconte Member Join Date: May 2017 Location: Marlton, NJ - Less Than an Hour from the Millville Meteor! Posts: 2,043 aconte	Great write up. Thank you for sharing your experience. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk __________________ Numbered cards......this is no longer the way. If you invest in cards, don't forget Cecil Cooper!

07-31-2022, 06:48 AM	#3
Cousin Jethroe Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Posts: 283	recap yes... nice recap

07-31-2022, 08:31 AM	#5
the mesiah Member Join Date: Nov 2014 Posts: 5,696	Thanks for the write up , I’ve been to a National once in Chicago several years ago and these write ups gives me the thought of going again at times but then not because of all I’ve heard about ..sounds like you had a good stress free week away from reality tho. __________________ THE CARD/MEMORABILIA COLLECTION https://www.flickr.com/photos/149024462@N04/albums/ https://www.flickr.com/photos/196556801@N02/albums/ https://www.flickr.com/photos/196511489@N05/albums/

07-31-2022, 12:51 PM	#9
2010GBPackers Member Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Milwaukee Posts: 4,348	Great write-up, messier2. I'm in full agreement with you regarding the Rosemont CC. Love the location, hate the CC. There's got to be healthier food somewhere in AC, no? Hopefully, I'll see you next year when it's back in CHI! __________________ "And more and more and more and more And more of less than ever before It's just too much more for your mind to absorb" - Yasiin Bey (Mos Def) Instagram: 2010gbpackers

07-31-2022, 07:51 AM	#4
Selanne00008 Member Join Date: Dec 2019 Posts: 1,064 Selanne00008	As for food. Maybe if it’s really getting to you, take an Uber to a healthy spot? Idk if noodles of the world counts. But NOW is delicious when I’m over at Borgata. Give yourself a one hour mental break too. Great write up! Like the positive energy. It’s what the hobby needs with all the negative Nancy’s around. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

07-31-2022, 09:10 AM	#6
packman80 Member Join Date: Jun 2014 Posts: 17,230	People wanted pics with Broke Back Mountain Breakers? Why would anyone want a pic with those fools? Anyone liking those idiots must not have have any self respect.

08-01-2022, 09:06 AM	#12
DajuanWagner Member Join Date: Sep 2011 Posts: 7,425	I heard that food was the best part of the Nationals and that card prices were the worse part of the Nationals.....3-4x ebay comps. __________________ *"You said the link to the Prizm hanhers was no longer available and out of stock. You lied, dreams of hoarding Prizm died."* -mc1 8.6.20

07-31-2022, 03:09 PM	#15
messier2 Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Posts: 15,296	Made it home a few hours ago. Glad to be home and reality hits you when you step back into your apartment. It's like I was transported back from fantasy-land and into the craziness of the eve of Monday morning! Thanks for the nice words on the write-up. I try (emphasize on the word TRY) to always look at the positive to everything and paint a picture for those that were not able to make it. As for the food, noodles are no good too. I just needed something light, easy on the stomach (not too greasy), but still made you full!

07-31-2022, 03:27 PM	#17
sonnyday Member Join Date: Sep 2011 Location: Cleeeevelaaaaand Posts: 2,741 Sonnyday	I feel ya on the poor food selections. Cheese Steaks and Cheese Burgers for 3 days straight is no joke. I am going to take a nap in the Sauna tonight and try to sweat it out along with all the other toxins i put into my body. To top it off, the wife is making Ravioli and Garlic Bread for Sunday Dinner.

07-31-2022, 06:25 PM	#19
Cannae Member Join Date: May 2021 Posts: 26	I had a great time -- everyone was very friendly and welcoming. The only complaint I had was the lack of cell service. Thankfully I had done some prep before coming and knew comps, but there were so many great cards I hadn't thought of before leaving home that I needed to walk outside to get comps.

07-31-2022, 07:04 PM	#21
boxbuster7 Member Join Date: Aug 2016 Posts: 12,770 boxbuster777	Always enjoy reading your posts messier __________________ Psa 9 > psa 10

08-01-2022, 09:29 AM	#22
Blanketcards Member Join Date: Jan 2020 Posts: 390 Blanketcards	Great show and venue was great but the city and area was just old and grimy imo. Prices were stupid high on the high end but the commodity stuff was fair. Dealers were great and would work with you if you were a cash buyer as it seemed like everyone was trying to trade the first 3 days and not alot of cash buyers was my perspective. Got some great deals and picked up 2 of the 4 grail cards I was looking for before I got there. Sunday was really interesting and it seemed everyone was trying to buy. Sold a ton on Sunday and secured a deal for one more grail. Hope to never go back to AC and walk around zombie land again if possible but it was certainly a life exposure for my 16 year old to stay away from drugs! Caesars was not what I am expected or used to but overall was adequate. Food choices were good but a little difficult at times without reservations but we made it through. Was very surprised that trade nights were still in full swing as I was concerned that the casino would not allow congregating in the lobbies. __________________ IG: Blanketcardcollector

08-01-2022, 09:32 AM	#23
Hockey24xx Member Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Springfield, IL Posts: 483 LincolnLandSC	I walked around doing redemptions all 5 days and I honestly can say I didnt encounter a single rude person. Every single person I came across was friendly which made for a real pleasant week. The big guy at Panini doing redemptions was probably the rudest person I met the whole show and he always has that demeanor.

08-01-2022, 10:56 AM	#24
checkoutmypc Member Join Date: Jul 2021 Location: indiana Posts: 49 wabashvalleycards jordansinvestments	Any dealer who had a bad show needs to retire. No if’s, and’s or but’s. Every dealer in the hot corner exceeded their sales from last year. Because they had liquid inventory priced at or below comps and weren’t a dickhead to younger kids who came by. It’s really not rocket science. Can’t stand the negativity regarding the show. Everyone and their mother knew AC is a hole; complaining about it retroactively just looks stupid. Perception is reality. Last edited by checkoutmypc; 08-01-2022 at 10:59 AM.

08-01-2022, 11:01 AM	#25
Neal Member Join Date: Mar 2017 Location: East Coast Posts: 2,832 1420sports	Thanks for sharing! Sent from my SM-G998U using Tapatalk __________________ collecting vintage sports cards and Star Wars .... with a touch of modern and ultra modern