Team Press Pass

Customer Loyalty

2011-05-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise when my daughter brought home a pack of 2009 Element from school last week. I had forgotten that I gave her teacher a bunch of old trading card packs to use in the class “treasure box” – a special box from which the kids get to select a prize when they behave all week. She was very excited when she opened the pack and found a Missing Element card. We decided that we would get on the computer after dinner and enter the card.

Except…the Missing Element redemption page isn’t up any more. The product is two years old and we’ve taken it down. So, now imagine the Press Pass Director of Customer Relations trying to console her 7-year-old who can’t redeem her card. Quite the lesson, huh? Some of you would say it serves me right.

Regardless, it was a good reminder that decisions must be made with the end-user in mind. At Press Pass, we know we’re one of the smaller trading card companies. We produce trading cards for niche products and entertainment properties and while we’re pretty successful doing it, we always remember that we have to do it better than the big guys.

Most of our customers see that in our customer relations policies. I can’t begin to tell you the number of times someone in our department has been told how refreshing it is to find out that yes, we will still honor your redemption card past the expiration date or yes, we will work with you to figure out what happened to your card. As much as possible, we want to fix what is wrong and turn a bad experience into a good one. We even try to fix it when it’s not our fault. (Chances are if you leave your just-opened trading cards next to your three-year-old who is coloring with markers, you will find interesting new art on your cards.)

As a retailer, I believe it is important to have the same strategy. The reason collectors like to visit hobby stores is to experience the fun of opening packs with a group of people who are as enthusiastic about the hobby as they are. They are also there because it is familiar – usually, they know you, they know your store and they know your events and promotions. Anything you can do to enhance their experience will only increase their loyalty.

Terri Rehkop

Collecting Focus

2011-02-28T10:45:00.000-08:00

Like many of you I have been collecting sports cards and memorabilia most of my life. The difference between us may be that I’m a little longer in the tooth and that means that I have had more time to “accumulate” things.

From time-to-time I find myself having to refocus my collecting habits. There are so many choices of things to collect in this day and age. When I was a kid there was one card set a year per sport so while you might collect multiple sports you were still capped at how many offerings were available to you in a given year.

Nowadays it is just like everything else in our world-sensory overload. And unfortunately when your mind (or your house!) becomes cluttered that can lead to a little less joy with your hobby. That’s because you spend as much time trying to figure out what to do with all of your stuff as opposed to being able to spend real quality time with it.

I am as guilty as anyone of falling prey to trying to collect everything. We automatically set ourselves up to fail as it simply can’t be done. Part of the joy of collecting is the “completing” aspect along with the “chase” aspect. But if all you ever do is chase then where is the fun in that? We are all competitive and we all want to win (finish) every once in awhile!

Even trying to collect a favorite athlete’s trading cards can be problematic. If you are a Dale Earnhardt Jr. or Derek Jeter fan then you’ll need to take out a second mortgage to try and amass all of their cards. It can almost be a curse to cheer for the most popular teams as they often have the most collectible players therefore ensuring a higher demand for the cards of those players. If you are a Kansas City Royals fan you are A-okay!

So what can we do to keep things interesting yet achievable? Focus! But we can make focus fun and affordable too. For example, here’s an approach I have taken to going back and collecting the baseball superstars from when I was a kid (Clemente, Aaron, Gibson and Mays to name a few). I have been collecting League Leader cards that feature these players (or not). Not only is it often a chance to have more than one of them pictured on the same card but they are affordable too! They often cost far less than the player’s common card from the same year. I have been trying to complete these by individual years, one year at a time.

Let’s talk about current cards. You love Dale Jr. but wow, there are a lot of cards out there. How about an approach of trying to collect all of his cards where he has a beard!? That focuses the chase a bit. Or maybe you want a little more variety with a challenge so you could go after non-memorabilia insert cards. That would provide a challenge but wouldn’t completely deplete your Daytona 500 trip money.

My purpose here is to point out that we collect cards and memorabilia as a hobby and an outlet. At the point it becomes overwhelming then it is no longer fun. So every time that I personally start to reach that point with my own collection I just refocus. Sometimes that means I purge some cards to allow me to begin a different pursuit. And that in itself is very exciting because one of the best parts about collecting as a kid was “trading” with your buddies. Think of a purge as just an adult’s way of trading!

One of the best things about our hobby and industry are the myriad of choices. Get creative with how you choose to continue your collecting quest and it will lead to more fun-filled times with family, friends and even yourself.

26.2

2011-02-23T10:43:00.000-08:00

First Marathon – Pilot Mountain Payback, Pilot Mountain State Park, North Carolina, February 19, 2011

Beginning in November 2010, I decided to begin training for my first marathon. Being an avid hiker, I wanted to choose a race held on trails. The race held at Pilot Mountain in February fit the bill and I had just enough time for a 16 week training schedule. Little did I realize this was not an ordinary marathon.

Several weeks prior to the race, I had built up to 19 miles on a couple of my long training runs. Most of these long runs were done on hilly trails at Morrow Mountain SP about an hour from home to try to mirror what I would face on race day. Then it was time to begin the taper – a 2-3 week period before the race of cutting back mileage for rest. During the taper though, I was very busy having two weeks of business trips to Pennsylvania and Texas. Not only is it hard to train while traveling, it is also hard to eat smart. Consequently during the last two weeks before the race, I had several nagging twinges and pains in my knees and feet. A week before the race the training plan called for an easy 8 miles, but I bagged it about halfway in due to the aches and pains and not wanting to do anything to keep me from race day. The next six days I decided to not run at all even though the schedule called for 3 easy runs of about 3-5 miles. I hoped it would help.

Race day rolled around and I felt about as good as I could hope. My wife Kristie was my driver and cheerleader for the day as we drove the 1.5 hrs to the race site. There were about 83 signed up for the full marathon and another 130 or so for the half-marathon. It was a chilly start somewhere in the 30’s but the sun was out. I was shivering before the race – probably from the cold and the nerves. Many runners were jogging or stretching. Being a relatively new runner I wasn’t sure what to do but I sure wasn’t going to go jogging and add any mileage to my day before the race! As the 9am start approached the race director said a few words while all the runners gathered around casually. I made sure I was standing out of the way near the back. Then out of nowhere we hear GO!!!

And there we all went and I was glad to finally get moving to build up some heat. And then we hit the first creek crossing at 50 yards; there was no avoiding getting your feet wet in this one. Following the creek was a nice, steep climb but it was short lived. The first mile or so the trail does a quick loop and comes back down a hill near the start/finish area before crossing a couple more creeks (there is a pattern here). At about 2 miles racers then follow the Corridor Trail about 6 miles to the base of Pilot Mountain. The Corridor Trail rolls up and down but the hills are short for the most part. The tread is nice, not too rocky but there are 4-5 more stream crossings. It was about 2-3 miles in when my right calve started tightening up like a cramp. It was strange because my calves have never cramped during training. At the 5 mile aid station(AS) I made a point to stock up on bananas and also refilled my water bottle with Gatorade. I had a handheld 22 oz water bottle which I drank and refilled 7 times during the race. The 5 mile point had taken about an hour which for me was a bit too fast so in the back of my mind I knew I needed to pull back my pace a bit. My goal was just to finish within the 7 hour cutoff.

Either the cramp went away or I forgot about it. I was talking with another runner who I would later meet whose name was Jim. Come to find out later, his wife Jade and my wife just happened to meet each other at the start and decided to hang out together and meet us at various road crossings during the race to cheer us on. Crazy! I don’t remember much about the conversation other than one item in particular concerning the course. The marathon runs out the Corridor trail, then around and up Pilot Mountain, back down the back side of the mountain on a different trail than it went up, then rejoins the same Corridor Trail back to the start/finish. The point where the course leaves the Corridor Trail to begin the climb at mile 8, I knew there would be the chance that the lead marathon runners may already be done and back around the mountain to this point (mile 19.5) by the time I was just getting there. It was a small mental hurdle to make it to that point and not see those lead runners (I hear the winning time was 3:05, insane). That was also the turn around for the half marathoners. We met many of the half marathoners on their way back already with several of the leaders showing some serious pain and intensity in their faces.

The climb up the mountain was intense, very rocky at points. I had previously trained on the course once before which made it a bit easier from a mental standpoint. I walked almost all of the uphill portion of it as did many of the runners around me. Passed a few guys while walking up, one was a soldier from Ft Bragg. I thanked him for protecting our country. As the trail approaches the summit parking lot, it steepens further with many high wood steps. To my surprise, Kristie and Jade were clapping and cheering me on at the summit parking lot AS (mile 12.5). After grabbing more bananas and Gatorade for the 3rd time, I headed for the summit knob. The trail wraps around the cliffs of the summit knob and then descends the Ledge Spring Trail which runs along the bottom of a cliff with many high rock steps to descend. The views from here are amazing! I then passed two older runners coming up the wrong way; I meant to say something to them but didn’t. For some reason my brain didn’t make the connection. And then there was the voice in my head telling me I was the new guy out here, I might very well be the one going the wrong way.

Continuing downhill on the Grindstone and Grassy Ridge Trails, they wrap around the north, then east, then south sides of the mountain. Mile 17.5 AS came along and my hamstrings were feeling sketchy but I had more pressing issues. An extended restroom break was necessary, costing me about 5 minutes but better than the alternative. More bananas and Gatorade. The next section I was really wondering if the hamstrings would cost me the finish. They felt overstretched at times and I wondered how far I could push them. I prayed that the Lord would help me finish the race and kept moving. I didn’t see any runners during this section except for four guys running together coming towards me running an extremely fast pace. They didn’t have race numbers on so I nodded to them and they said Good Job as they passed. I was later told these were the course sweepers making sure all the runners were okay along the trails. Nice.

Making it back to the mile 19.5 AS where the course rejoins the Corridor Trail, Kristie and Jade were there cheering me on. I was tired but couldn’t help but smile. More bananas and Gatorade along with a shot of Mountain Dew and M&M’s this time at the counsel of my wife. While I was there, Jim (Jade’s husband) came up and we were formally introduced. He was in and out of the AS in a blink, while I messed around – what can I say, I’m a rookie.

The next 6ish miles were running the Corridor Trail back – the one with all the stream crossings. I managed to run (a very loose use of “run”) most of the rest of this with the exception of a handful of steep climbs that were walks. Things were starting to run together in this section but my hamstrings weren’t bothering me quite as much and I knew I would finish. Last full AS at 22ish miles I loaded up on, yes, Gatorade and bananas but also threw down some salty potato chips. I believe those may have been the best chips I’ve ever ate. Passed a few guys while walking the uphills and exchanged some encouragements. Nearing the finish, the course leaves the trail and onto the dirt road we’d started on. Only a couple stream crossings left and I didn’t even bother to find the shallow parts. Plow right through kicking up water on my legs. Oh yea. I can see the finish line and I just keep my steady slow pace. My wife sees me and runs out to run the last 50 yards or so with me. About 5 hrs and 45 minutes, 26.2 miles was finished! Thank the Lord! It felt great; great to stop. I had a couple pieces of cold pizza, some pretzels, and a can of soda while chatting with Jim and Jade and a few other finishers. For the next little while we watched as others finished. Several runners were using this race as a training run for ultramarathons. I was impressed. They were saying how crazy I was for choosing this as my first marathon and now that it is over I can see that. There were several other first timers out there though so at least I wasn’t alone. I hobbled over to the car and my wife drove us home. Time to pick out the next race.

Aaron

Here We Go Steelers!

2011-02-09T14:05:00.000-08:00

Recently I had to help my daughter with a project for school. She had to make a timeline of her life. Obviously she needed help with her early years but it was a fun exercise. The timeline of my life is littered with the love of the Pittsburgh Steelers and their accomplishments (and occasional failures). I’ve been a Steelers fan for my entire life. My dad is from Altoona, Pennsylvania and in Western PA the Steelers are closer to a religion than just a football team to root for on Sundays. My parents have a picture of me as a toddler with a “My First Steelers Shirt” on. Like most people I have vivid memories throughout my life of various different things, when I got married, when my daughter was born, when I graduated, or when a loved one died. I also have a lot of vivid memories that pertain specifically to the Pittsburgh Steelers. I remember being very sick and struggling to stay awake on a bunch of medicine to watch my first Steelers playoff game in 1989. I remember taking my brother to a game in 2005, watching the Steelers win the Super Bowl that year, and having my mother buy my daughter a Steelers cheerleader outfit. I’ve had numerous conversations with various family members that started off as an “obligatory family update” and quickly turned into a long conversation about the Steelers.

During the Steelers playoff run before Super Bowl 30 my girlfriend (who is now my wife of almost 13 years) was irritated that our ‘date’ that week (we were in separate schools and I had a full time while in college so our time was limited) was a Steelers game. Most of my family and a bunch of our friends were over at my parents’ house to watch the Steelers destroy the Buffalo Bills and Julie was visibly displeased at my choice for our date. My mother told her “don’t make him choose between you and the Steelers, he’s loved the Steelers a lot longer than he’s known you.” It was good to get the priorities of the relationship out there in the open at the start. We’ve been together for over 16 years and she does her best to not get in the way of the Steelers. I do my best take out of the trash, the compromises you make being married.

My favorite Steelers memory is taking my mother to the season opening game in 2006 to see the Steelers play the Miami Dolphins. My mother grew up in Miami and grew up a Dolphins fan. Marrying someone from Western PA means that your team is now secondary to the Steelers but she still liked the Dolphins a lot. The 2006 season opened for the Steelers on as the Super Bowl champions customarily open the regular season on Thursday. It was a great experience; there was a concert beforehand, fireworks after and a great game in between. Before the game we also go to see Jerome Bettis help unveil the 5th Super Bowl banner. It was a bittersweet experience because on that trip mom told me that was sick and not going to get better. Regardless of the bad news it was amazing to see the Steelers game with my mom and then eat at Primanti Bros. the next day waiting for our flight home.

Mom always taught me to be myself and like millions of other people worldwide being a sports fan is part of who I am. Sports are the ultimate reality TV, the events aren’t scripted and the outcome frequently makes you go “oh man, that was great”. Other Steelers fans don’t care what my race, religion, age, or anything like that, the fans care that I love the Steelers and dislike the rest of the AFC North. That’s it. I’m friends with people who outside of our mutual love of the Steelers we have nothing in common. Yet we’ve grown to be good friends outside of just the Steelers. It doesn’t matter if you’re rooting for the NFL, MLB, NASCAR, or your local high school football team; being a fan is just fun.

Obviously I had hoped to have a better memory from this past Sunday but that’s part of why the NFL is great; a six-seed team lead by a quarterback who was passed over by many teams in need of a QB wins the Super Bowl and is positioned to have a championship team for a years to come. If a movie was written that way the movie studios would reject as too impossible for the audience to believe.

Next weekend if you’re a fan of Jimmie Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. or any of the other drivers in the Daytona 500 make sure you show your fandom. If NASCAR isn’t your thing then and you want to wait for Opening Day in April to root for your MLB team or next September to root for your NFL that’s fine as well. Just make sure you do so with pride, show your colors and have a great time while doing rooting for your favorite team, driver or athlete.

Trevor McGregor

Listen, Sympathize and Care…

2011-02-03T18:36:00.000-08:00

The more I work in Customer Relations at Press Pass and answer telephone calls from people everyday the more interesting it becomes. I always anticipate what will be on the other end of the phone call – will it be pleasant, will it be an angry customer or a happy customer? Most people would dread answering the phone when it rings and hesitate picking it up. But actually, some days I look forward to it and look forward to helping that person in hopes that they will be satisfied at the end of the call. You can usually tell what the conversation will be like, within their first few words, and in the tone of their voice. The customer can also tell what type of mood the customer relations people are in too; just by the way we answer the phone call or talk to them.

I always try and answer the phone with a smile or at least an upbeat voice.
It’s interesting to know how many different personalities there are out there, dealing with NASCAR trading cards and die-cast each day. I sometimes wonder how many are really into the collecting of our trading cards and how many years they have done so. It’s kind of like making new friends or relationships that will continue for years with Press Pass - which is important to our company. So it’s important for me to sympathize, listen and care about what they have to say. It always works better than getting upset or frustrated or answering the phone like you’re having a bad day.

I’m learning that trading card redemptions are a big deal for some who are avid collectors - and not so much for others. Most just want some results for their card or money spent, while others want that specific card and nothing else! It’s nice to know that on most occasions, I can finish the call and know that the person is satisfied and happy. It is rewarding to me that I have left our customer feeling good, and that their issue or problem has been solved to their satisfaction. I enjoy being a member of our Press Pass Customer Relations Department. Hum, what will tomorrow hold? Who will I have the pleasure of speaking with? Will it be you?

Have a great day!
Lisa Shelby

Field Fillers

2011-01-20T18:10:00.000-08:00

It doesn’t matter if a race car driver has a day off. They won’t take it. Talk about stubborn! *smh* I’m beginning to see this first hand as my boyfriend Jonathan Lovero, aka my Love Muffins (ha) is a dirt track racer. They have to be CONSTANTLY doing something that revolves around speed. Whether its playing video games/simulators from the time they wake up to the time they go to bed or racing go karts on Sunday, the need for speed is something born only to a true race car driver.

It was at the suggestion of up and coming driver and 2011 Press Pass Undiscovered Elements participant Brandon McReynolds to come and check out the latest in local go-kart racing at Field Filler Fairgrounds in Concord, NC. Two Sundays ago, Johnny and I layered our clothes and braved the cold wintry conditions and attended the “JUSTIN BONSIGNORE MOTORSPORTS 51”, the first race in the 2011 year for FFC.

Televised by Weekend Warriors TV, crowds gather behind the Joie of Seating (owned and operated by two-time Busch Series champion, Randy LaJoie) headquarters to watch these karts battle it out. The karts get around this little bullring in about 6.6 seconds. Sponsored by NOS Energy Drink, Weekend Warriors TV and the Joie of Seating, the events at this track are growing more and more with the next race scheduled for Sunday, March 13th.

www.weekendwarriorstv.com/home/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Field-filler-Fairgrounds/151295604893003

Tonya Clarkston

Should you be online?

2011-01-11T16:25:00.000-08:00

The trading card industry is fascinating. It’s one of the few industries left that is still resistant to the idea that change and new technology can make a business more efficient and effective. Granted, many advancements have made doing business more challenging, but I believe that’s because of how retailers and distributors are implementing these changes, not because the changes themselves are bad.

I have been asked more than once by people in the industry if they should be on the Internet. I have danced around the question in the past because of the negative implications of the question. However, if I were asked that today, I would answer yes. The key objective of any business is to reach its customers. If a big percentage of your customers are on the Internet, how can you justify not being there yourself? As a business, you have to make your decisions based on how you can make it easier for your customers to do business with you. Anything else is counterproductive.

Of course, the question of whether or not you should be on the Internet is driven by price. Early adopters in the trading card industry have made ripples because everything they do is driven by being the lowest cost option for customers. While this strategy can give a short-term bump to profits, over time it erodes both the product value (extremely important for everyone in the trading card industry) and the value your business provides to its customers.

By competing solely on price, you guarantee that your customer will look around before making a purchase. If they find a better deal elsewhere, they will buy elsewhere and you have lost a sale. However, if you look at the Internet and your overall business strategy as a way to build loyalty with your customers, you can go a long way toward ensuring that you keep the largest share of your customers’ trading card spending.

Everyone needs to take a hard look at their business and decide if they are doing everything they can to make their customers loyal to them. Are you talking to them on a regular basis? Are you tracking their preferences and what products they buy? Are you making sure it’s as easy as clicking a mouse to do business with you? All of these things are accomplished by an Internet presence. It doesn’t have to be sophisticated or fancy.

Just think about the companies you do business with. What do you like best? What do you not like? Take that information and apply it to your business. The trading card industry is definitely unique…running a customer-centric business is not.

I would challenge everyone in this industry to make their New Year’s resolution finding ways to make their businesses work harder for their customers instead of the other way around. The more you do for your customers, the more likely they are to resist spending their money elsewhere.

Terri Rehkop

What Do I Have To Do To Get You People Like Me?!

2010-12-17T16:59:00.000-08:00

Meet Jimmie Johnson, the best NASCAR driver in the world for the past five years. Is he really that good behind the wheel? Oh yeah. Is he a nice guy? He is indeed one of the nicest and most genuine guys in the sport. But when he’s introduced before the race, do fans go crazy over him? No.

To many, it seems odd that Jimmie has not been as successful at capturing fans as he has been at capturing championships. Jimmie may have a lot to offer, but he’s missing something that keeps him from being a driver fans can really latch on to. Perhaps a trip to Oz is in order so that the wizard can give Jimmie what he’s missing: an imperfection.

Think back to the “good ol’ days” of NASCAR and you think about guys like the Intimidator, the Ironman, the Bandit, the Silver Fox, Jaws, and the King. Back then, drivers seemed more genuine and thus fans made connections with them. The drivers were regular people who had imperfections and weren’t afraid to show emotion on and off the track. Nowadays, drivers are “brand ambassadors” that are programmed to thank Chevy, smile, compliment their teammates, smile, and take a drink of Coca Cola (remember to turn the bottle so the logo is showing for those practicing at home). Fans aren’t ignorant, and they see through the charade, and I imagine that it only frustrates them as it does me. Stop talking like robots and tell us how you really feel before I change the channel back to Swamp People!

In the current crop of NASCAR drivers, only a handful of drivers break this mold. Kyle Busch, Tony Stewart, and Kevin Harvick are three that come to mind, although Carl Edwards gets a nod for his creative sponsor plugs and occasional “choke hold”. You can hear signs of emotion from these drivers when they talk, and you see their tempers get the best of them on the track. Fans get this, and it is part of the reason Kyle’s fan base has grown so quickly. When someone cuts me off on the highway, I get mad and want to retaliate, although laws often prohibit this. When you see a driver do that in a race, it excites you because you understand his frustration.

Unfortunately for Jimmie he is just too perfect, and it’s hard for fans to relate. Jimmie is like that overachieving friend…the one who got his PhD and has a weekend house in the mountains before he turned 30. People that are “perfect” only make you feel bad about yourself, so we tend to avoid them. Think about your close friends. Are they ten times better than you at everything, or do you tend to surround yourself with people who have just as many faults as you? Being a fan works the same way. I like Carl because I get his sense of humor, I understand his rage, and he seems genuine.

In order for Jimmie to win over fans, I have decided to start a list of things he can do to prove he isn’t perfect:

Arm-wrestle Joey Logano’s dad
Start the tradition of doing a cartwheel after a victory
Do his victory burnout before the race
Thank Home Depot during post-race interview
Pay people to vote him as the Most Popular Driver (similar to Dale Jr’s method of winning eight titles in a row)
Divorce Chandra and propose to Danica
Kidnap Carl Edwards baby

We want to hear from you! Tell us what you think Jimmie should do to win over some fans. We may even pick the best idea and send you a prize…wink, wink!

Jesse Leadbetter

Playoffs!

2010-12-08T17:34:00.000-08:00

The 2010 NASCAR recently ended with Jimmie Johnson winning his unprecedented fifth consecutive championship. This was a little different for Jimmie because on the final race he wasn't in the lead and had to come from behind to win. The Chase for the Cup was created to help give the NASCAR season a bit more excitement towards the of the season but this was the first time it achieved its goal. I like the idea of making a playoffs for NASCAR but personally I'd wish that NASCAR would make it even more of a playoff atmosphere.

NASCAR is having a bit of a ratings slump and it carried over into the Chase as well. The races for the Chase had less ratings that previous year and even less ratings that earlier races in the season. The ratings were down even with three different drivers having a legitimate chance to win the championship on the last race. This is just a weird phenomenon to me, in other sports the playoffs and championship games or tournaments get much higher ratings.

I think the solution lies in the differences between other sports and NASCAR. In other sports it is win or go home in the playoffs. In NASCAR if you qualify then you get to race any of the Chase races, even if you aren't in the Chase. Why not make an actual elimination-style playoffs. You take the top 16 drivers and the last seven races and make it a true playoff tournament. The two lowest finishing drivers get eliminated every week and then the final four race in the last race to see who is crowned champion. Don't worry about points, the best finish takes the trophy. You could even have a wild card type event leading up to the last seven races so you could have ten races in the Chase.

In my opinion this would get more people to watch the Chase and help get NASCAR back some of the its lost ratings. It would also make for some great television.

Trevor McGregor

One Race To Go!

2010-11-17T14:04:00.000-08:00

Well folks, it’s down to one races and three drivers. With the excitement of the beef between Gordon and Burton two weekends ago in Texas, (Did you guys see the brawl? It was AWWWWE-SOME!) and the excitement in Phoenix fans are sure to tune into the Homestead events this weekend to see if Denny Hamlin holds onto the points lead or if Kevin Harvick or Jimmie Johnson can catch him.

Hamlin started off the year a little rough with him having to have knee surgery in April. Amazing everyone, Hamlin got in the car the next week and got his first win of the year two weeks later, all the while still nursing his knee back to health. Quite a feat I have to give him the credit for. Not quite sure I could’ve handled 250 laps with a “peg leg” that’s for sure.

Needless to say it’s going to be an interesting last race! Can the young overtake the old-er? Can Jimmie and the #48 crew do the unthinkable and take back the lead to win consecutive championship number five? A feat that’s never been done once in the history of NASCAR? Or will a quiet third place Harvick step up and capture the title? I for one will be glued to the TV watching to find out.

Tonya Clarkston

Life After Five...

2010-11-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

Let me start off by saying this is not going to be your typical Press Pass blog about trading cards, die-cast or NASCAR racing, I have worked for Press Pass Inc. for about 12 years and have moved through the entire office working in all departments except the Art Department and trust me you don’t want me to go there! I am now located in the Customer Relations department and look forward to excelling there and making my knowledge stronger with this business.

With that said, I do enjoy my work at Press Pass Inc. although my greatest passion is animals. After a long busy day I exit the Press Pass building and head north on I-77 towards Lake Norman where I reside and I retire to taking care of my 2 dogs and cat Macy, Biff and my adopted dog Major whom I rescued from a neighbor from being PTS! Major was severely abused at the young age of 2 or 3 by a mean male person, so he has issues with certain men but loves women. Since I have adopted him he has changed so much and has become a great companion. His only flaw is that he is terrified of thunderstorms! During one storm back this summer he ran out of the house and down my neighborhood street. I looked for hours for him and just knew he was gone. I continued to call out his name over and over again and finally heard his cry coming from a home under their deck, he was so afraid he would not come out! So the homeowner allowed me to go under their deck and coax him out, it took a lot of time and reassurance on my part but he finally jumped in my arms like he was holding on for dear life. That’s when I knew I made the right decision to take him in.

Along with my animals I also care for pets working my second job “Pet Sitting”. When I got into pet sitting it was something I thought I would like to do in my spare time (what little I have) and boy have I loved it so far. I have been at it for almost 2 years now working week nights and weekends for clients that are on vacation or just have another occasion to be away from home. It is really rewarding to visit the pets at their homes or stay over night with them and make sure they are well and happy for the hour or night I am with them each visit.

Most of them are really glad to see you when you arrive, just to see someone, anyone since their masters are gone away. Its fun and relaxing for me because you get the calmness and unconditional love from these pets no matter what kind of day you are having and no matter how many times you have to poke them with medication or injections for what ever they may need it for. I have found myself on occasion saying I will feel a lot better about whatever is bothering me that day or night once I visit “Cody, Maddie, Roxie, Tinkerbell or any of the other 114 pets I care for regularly. They have become like my step children and I find you can have the greatest love for those little fur babies and miss them when its time to leave that visit, but knowing you will be back the next day, night or in a few weeks gives me a good feeling.

The pet sitting is not limited to just dogs and cats, I also care for a 40-50 pound pot belly pig named Daisy, who has finally warmed up to me and stopped charging at me when I let her out of her luxury room to go outside and an African Grey bird named Pickles that recites to me the “Meow” sound of the owners cat Spooky! The first time I heard that bird say “Meow” and “here kitty kitty” I thought someone else was in the home. I have had so many laughs and fun times with this part-time job to fill my spare time.

So there you have it my life outside of Press Pass trading cards! It keeps me busy and sometimes when I don’t want to be busy but I love it and knowing those little ones need the care of someone when they are home alone!

Lisa Shelby

Five Star Autographs

2010-11-02T12:05:00.000-07:00

I’m not a writer by any means. I don’t blog, I rarely tweet; it just isn’t something I do often. Funny for someone whose job is opening her big mouth everyday and communicating with people to get cards approved huh? Give TC a pencil to draw- I’m good for hours. Give TC a pencil to write – not only is the paper in front of me blank but so is my mind. Don’t ask me to write copy, EVER! That’s like asking Kyle Busch to quit whining, it’s never going happen! Because I love our PP peeps SO much, I’m going to take a stab at this thing called blogging and tell all you out there what I’ve been up to for the past month.

I’m sure you’ve all heard and are SO excited about the upcoming release of our Five Star product. Who isn’t right?! I know I am! Timing has been everything with this product. With the sport deep within the Chase and the year almost over, most of our drivers’ schedules are bombarded with public appearances and 2011 photoshoots. Not the most perfect timing to request an autograph session that’s for sho! Thankfully we have great licensors that we work with in the industry who’ve made it happen for us to get these special cards signed in time for the product release in November. What would we do without our licensors?!

Didn’t mean it hasn’t taken any sweat or tears on the PP side of things though…the tears, you’ll have to ask Jesse (NASCAR Product Manager) about. ;) Jesse and I have both worn the soles off of our shoes traveling around getting cards signed. We’ve been all over the South, as far as Daytona, FL and Palmetto, SC to smaller towns like Randleman and Kernersville, NC meeting up with drivers. I would still be lost in some small country town in South Carolina if it hadn’t been for my Garmin.

As a true follower of the sport since I was a wee one, I’ve had opportunities to sit down with some of the best ever in the sport the past few weeks. Something not many people can say they’ve had the chance to do or will ever do. Something I can’t wait to talk to my own chitlins/grand chitlins about. I’ve met up with Legends like Richard Petty, The Silver Fox, Bobby Allison, Darrell Waltrip and Cale Yarborough to current Legends like Kevin Harvick and Danica Patrick. Yes I got to meet Danica Patrick! You can freak out now. I’ll give you a minute to calm down. ;) And yes, she’s as short as you think she is and a real fireball.

Most sessions have taken anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour to do. During this time, amongst the rumbles and grumbles of everyday shop talk, I’ve chit chatted about everything from the emergence of the Dodge Charger and Ford Mustang into the sport down to what local store serves the best hot dogs. If you’re ever in Charlotte for the race, Richard Petty highly recommends the dogs at Celebrity Hotdogs in Concord. Their walls hold as many autographs as our products do! And he’s right. The dogs are pretty dang good.

But I wouldn’t change all the hectic, chaotic work that has went into the project for anything! I grew up watching these guys fight it out on the track for years. Some of them were watched fighting it out off the track. But they are who have made this sport what it is today and with that said I am honored and very privileged to have worked with them all.

Peace and chicken grease my PP peeps,
Tonya Clarkston

Fall Spectacular

2010-11-01T00:37:00.000-07:00

Aaah, fall. After 90 plus summer days of temperatures above 90 degrees, this is a long awaited time of year. This is my favorite time of the year – it’s brisk, cool and with that comes more energy and a desire to be outdoors.

I had a short time this weekend to experience up close and personal – a different kind of sport - Hot Air Balloons.

The first Hot Air Balloon flight was on June 5th, 1783 in Annonay, France by the Montgolfier brothers. (Did they play golf too?)

Fast forward 227 years . . . . . . .

My hometown hosted the 37th Annual Carolina Balloon Fest on Oct. 22 – 24, 2010. The National Balloon Rally got its start in 1974 at Aerial Ascensions in Statesville, NC. The owner at that time - invited Balloon Works customers from across the US to come to Statesville for a week of camping, flying and telling ballooning tales.

In 1978, the facility moved near Love Valley, NC – and thus began the week-long gathering of balloon enthusiasts, and local spectators. Curious about love Valley? Take a peek: http://www.townoflovevalley.com/

Anyway, late Friday afternoon I took a short ride up I-40 West, and like all the other cars around, in front, and in back of me – I had to pull over. There were 37 of the most awesome, and beautiful balloons – drifting right over the Interstate. More were coming! Some were low enough you could talk to Balloonist in the basket. What a color spectacular!!! What a breath taking experience.

If you’ve ever been to a Balloon Rally, you know what I mean – and it can’t really be described in words. It’s an experience. If you’ve never been to one – you just have no idea what you are missing. (Don’t think because you’ve seen “a” hot air balloon in the distance somewhere that you have an idea of what it’s all about. You don’t)

The next few Rally’s will be the Taos Mountain Balloon Rally 10/29 – 10/31 in Taos, New Mexico; Ballunar Liftoff Festival 10/29 – 10/31 Houston Texas; and Balloons Over Anderson 11/5 – 11/7 in Anderson, SC.

If these aren’t close to you, you can check the following site, and look up the schedule to hopefully find one near you:
www.festivals-and-shows.com/hot-air-balloon-festivals.html

You never know – you might find a new sport to watch.

Debbie Smith

You Never Know...

2010-10-26T11:02:00.000-07:00

I grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina. Raleigh is the home of North Carolina State University and is the capital city of North Carolina. Athletes and coaches like Bill Cowher, Lou Holtz, Phillip Rivers, David Thompson and Jim Valvano have made their way through N.C. State. But Raleigh has also turned out some other celebrities as well. Emily Proctor (who currently stars in CSI Miami) and Sharon Lawrence (former NYPD star) are also from my hometown.

But two of the funniest people around today lived a few houses away from me. David and Amy Sedaris grew up a rock’s throw from my front door. Their older sister Lisa was my family’s babysitter. Never heard of them? Google the two of them and you’ll discover that they are both major celebrities. Amy pops up on David Letterman’s show with regularity and David is a staple on NPR. Both are playwriters.

My parents still live in the house I grew up in. Lou Sedaris (Amy and David’s Dad) still lives in the house they grew up in so our parents are still friends. Dad and Mr. Sedaris both worked together for years for IBM.

So what’s my point here? To let you know I know the Sedaris siblings? Nope…growing up I can honestly say I never in my wildest dreams would have predicted that either of them would become famous people. They just seemed like the rest of us kids. Okay that may not quite be the truth (Amy in particular was always very dramatic) but there wasn’t something that just cried out “a star is born.”

We all walk through live surrounded by extraordinary people (we ourselves may be extraordinary.) Extraordinary can be demonstrated in a number of ways but its meaning is obvious. Whether it is a famous doctor, actor or athlete they all come from somewhere. Perhaps the next Justin Bieber is hanging out at your local Mall…

I’m currently reading David’s latest book Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: a Modest Bestiary and that’s what prompted this blog. Every time I see Amy cracking up David Letterman I wonder when did it happen? When did she discover that she had “it”? Because when we were kids she was just a neighborhood kid like the rest of us. But read one of David’s books and you’ll wonder how in the world I did not notice that he was a bit different than the rest of us!

DJ Kazmierczak

My Sports Life

2010-10-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year. It’s absolutely insane – for some reason life heats up to a crazy pace on October 1, but it’s worth it. Not only is does the weather improve (although I admit that I am not looking forward to the cold winter temps), but fall is the apex of the sports year.

I love sports. Not all of them equally, but I will watch just about anything on TV. It’s amazing too, when you consider the recent and not-too-recent track records of some of my favorite teams. I’ve been a Royals fan ever since I went to college – I’m dating myself, but it was 1985 and the Royals were at their peak. It’s been a long painful slide since then.

My two NFL teams are the Carolina Panthers and the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs are actually showing a glimmer of respectability this year, but it’s going to be a long cold winter in Charlotte.

The Charlotte Bobcats are (still) an expansion team – not much else to say about that.

I’ve had more luck with college sports…my beloved Jayhawks won the NCAA Division I Basketball Championship two years ago. They also won in ’88 when I was in college – it’s a feeling that is beyond description. The football team won the Orange Bowl in 2008. If you know anything about the history of football at Kansas, you know what an accomplishment that was. I’m not even going to talk about this year’s football team.

And then there’s NASCAR. It’s never been a sport that I followed or watched and when I started at Press Pass, I had to take a crash course in drivers, sponsors and fans. In my almost nine years here, I have come to appreciate, not just the skill and talent of the drivers, but the passion and enthusiasm of the fans. I believe that the people who buy our NASCAR trading cards are more than collectors – they are true fans of the sport and the drivers they follow.

I think that’s the best part about what we do. We help people who are already fans become even bigger fans of their sport. It’s why we have (sometimes) heated discussions in our office about who attends the National and other opportunities to talk to fans – it is an incredible feeling to find out how excited people are about the product we produce. It’s not an opportunity many companies have. Of course, the downside is when people are not happy about an experience with our product, but that is also part of the job. You listen, you learn and you make the next product better.

We love hearing from you. Keep the comments and thoughts coming – through phone calls, email, Facebook, etc. Good and bad, we want to hear from you.

Terri Rehkop

Goodbye

2010-10-08T11:20:00.000-07:00

I’m sure this will shock most of you but before I came to work here at Press Pass I didn’t even know that NASCAR Trading Cards existed. I know, I know, for most of you that doesn’t make sense because you’re so passionate about NASCAR Trading Cards. Even though I lived in Charlotte, which to some is the center of the NASCAR world, I was blind to almost all things NASCAR and that included NASCAR trading cards.

I never collected trading cards myself and I didn’t know much about the trading card industry in general. I quickly learned that my husband, my father, my brother in-law and pretty much all the men in my family had their share of old shoe boxes and notebooks filled with trading cards that they collected during their youth; which I thought was pretty cool. They each had their favorite card and stories about how they got it. Listening to them talk made me realize that working for a trading card company was going to be pretty cool.

I had originally thought that the trading card industry had gone the way of eight-track tapes and pet rocks. It wasn’t until I started researching Press Pass and trading cards that I realized how alive and active the trading card industry is today. I didn’t know about all the blogs, forums and v chat sites that were solely dedicated to trading cards. It was quite an eye-opening experience and helped get me really excited for my new job.

On my first day at Press Pass I was given a box of 2008 Speedway to open. I will be honest, it was the first time I’d ever busted wax before...and it was great. I loved the rush and the excitement of not knowing what I was going to pull. I marveled at the amazing design and how the cards seemed to grab your eye. I was jumping for joy (on the inside of course) when I pulled an autograph; a Greg Zipadelli autograph which I still have at my desk and I will take with me on my future endeavors. Again I will state I didn’t know anything about NASCAR, but just the fact that I pulled an autograph I thought that was awesome. When I was done opening the box I realized how lucky I was because I had been given a new experience. It was that joy and excitement that I tried to think of every time I talked to a collector. For the last two years I talked to a lot of collectors and have truly enjoyed getting to know them and help them with their collections.

There are a lot of things that I have gained from working at Press Pass, but one of biggest things that I’ve gained is a love trading cards.

Thank you Press Pass and the Press Pass collecting community for everything over the past two years, I will miss you!

Allison Ranson

Main Event Fight Nights

2010-09-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

Press Pass set up the Main Event Fight Night to celebrate and promote the release of Main Event in September. I actually attended a few fight night events in the greater Chicago area. This was the fourth trip I’ve taken this year to visit stores in various parts of the country and it is easily my favorite part of my job.

I really enjoy the chance to get out and meet our fans. It is awesome to give out prizes to our fans while they’re opening packs looking for cards of their favorite driver or for a ‘hit’. I attended two Main Event Fight Nights, one at Matt’s Sports Cards in Joliet and one at Chicagoland Sportscards in Arlington Heights. Multiple rounds of prizes were given out at both locations for various criteria such as driver with the most wins or tallest driver (all based on the information on the cards you pulled in a pack).

Both events were well attended and I got to see multiple boxes of Main Event opened. I also visited a few other card stores in Indiana, Wisconsin, and in the greater Chicago area. Overall in four days I flew 1500 miles and drove another 750 miles to visit a total of seven stores in three states. I got to meet a few dozen fans NASCAR Trading Card fans.

This year I’ve also visited New Hampshire, Texas, California, and of course the National Sports Collectors Convention in Baltimore, Maryland. It was quite a fun year of meeting our great collectors throughout the country. Look for us to continue these trips in 2011.

Trevor McGregor

Here are some pictures from my trip to Chicago.

The NASCAR Trading Card Monopoly

2010-09-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

We have a monopoly on the NASCAR trading card market. We have no competition. There isn’t another company making better NASCAR trading cards. If someone wants NASCAR trading cards, they have to buy our products. So we can just put the company on cruise control and churn out run-of-the-mill products, right? Wouldn’t that make our lives simpler?!

Earlier in the year amidst all of the discussions about the pros and cons of exclusive agreements with leagues and trading card companies, several people echoed the concern that if a company doesn’t have competition, they have no incentive to be creative and come up with new ways to excite collectors. As a Product Manager for a company that essentially has a monopoly on the NASCAR trading card market, this statement struck a chord with me, and I constantly find myself thinking about all of the reasons why that statement is wrong…and here are a few of them.

Competitiveness – I hate losing. I have to win the race off the line when the red light turns green even though the car next to me has no idea we’re racing. The term “self-motivated” is seen on résumés a lot, and to me it means “paranoid”…paranoid that somewhere out there someone is doing my job better than I am. That paranoia drives me, and as a result I want my products to be perfect, and I want you to love them. I want each release to win some sort of “Best Product in the History of Trading Cards” award, though that has yet to happen. This competitive drive is shared among many others in the office, and it keeps us on our toes and motivates us to constantly improve our business.

Customer Focus - Over the past two years, we have spent a lot of time talking to customers on the phone, through email, in focus groups, and in hobby shops. We have asked you to give us feedback on what we’re doing right and what we need to improve on. Many of you have praised our company for our customer service, and it is this customer-centric approach to our business that helps us produce products that you enjoy collecting. By focusing on what the consumer wants, rather than what another company is doing helps ensure our customers stay happy.

The Press Pass Family – Nestled a few miles north of the Queen City, Press Pass occupies roughly half of one floor of a six-story office building. There are 18 of us: Kevin, Kevin, Terri, Terri, Kristen, Kirsten, Allison, Trevor, Debbie, Lisa, Tonya, Eric, Robert, Aaron, Nick, Tom, DJ, and Jesse. None of us owns a Mercedes. We all just have one home, and $2.50 Healthy Choice meals are the preferred lunch fare. We are a family of simple, honest, hard-working, happy-go-lucky people, and I’m proud to be a part of it.

Much like within a family, there is a bond between us that ties us all together. In fact, I see these people more than I see my own family. The members of this family are my incentive and motivation to produce good quality products. We all rely on each other to do our jobs and there is a sense of duty and accountability to make this company better than it was the year before. When the economy took a downturn a few years ago, I started thinking about my role in the company and how it affects everyone else. If I make a bad product, you don’t buy it. If you don’t buy it, people in my “family”, including me, may lose their job. That pressure motivates me to work harder and smarter.

Press Pass’ focus was never to become the exclusive manufacturer of NASCAR trading cards. We didn’t shell out millions of dollars to push other guys out of the sport. We didn’t undercut everyone’s prices to make them go away. We just built a business that people could rely on. We listen to our customers, and we make products that deliver value, excitement, and authenticity. Our products are our “kids”, and we love them all. However, rest assured that next year’s “kids” will be way better.

Jesse Leadbetter

“Playoffs? Playoffs!!?

2010-09-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

As the NASCAR schedule continues with tomorrow night’s race in the smoking mecca of Richmond, it also signals the last race of the “regular season”. This is the last of the 26 races drivers can qualify for NASCAR’s version of the playoffs, “The Chase for the Cup”.

As you may recall NASCAR implemented “The Chase” back in ’04 to help drive excitement, intrigue and exposure during the end of professional sport’s longest season winds down during football season. It started with only 10 drivers qualifying for the postseason, but has since been expanded to 12 to increase the chances of popular drivers (i.e. Dale Jr.) making the field.

Personally I think 10 is the perfect number pun intended. Most lists are the “Top 10”, not 12 or 15. In college the number 10 works as The Big 10 conference has 11 teams, 12 next year, but they have kept the same moniker. X is cooler than XII, ten is easier to spell than twelve, most people have 10 toes and fingers, and, well you catch my drift.

While 12 seems a little high from a participation standpoint, it’s actually low when comparing playoffs against stick and ball sports.

With 43 drivers in the field for each race and let’s assume they are the same 43 for every race. For all intents and purposes, six to seven of the bottom 43 drivers are interchangeable. Can you tell the difference between J.J. Yeley and Michael McDowell? Using this math (12 out of 43), only 28% of drivers make the playoffs.

Consider the following sports:

• NBA: 16 out of 30 teams: 53.3%

• NHL: 16 out of 30 teams: 53.3%

• NFL: 12 out of 32 teams: 37.5%

• MLB: 8 out of 30 teams: 26.7%

Out of the so called four major sports, three (75%) have a higher qualifying percentage than NASCAR. NASCAR has floated the idea of expanding the field in future years and I for one hope it remains at 12 or decreases to the magic number of 10. I’m afraid if they expand the number, although making it closer to other sport’s participation %, it will dilute “The Chase” and will have Jim Mora proclaiming once again “Playoffs? Playoffs!!?

Kevin O’Neil

A Football Fan from the Beginning

2010-09-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Let me start off by saying that I love sports – all sports. I grew up in the country, and playing sports on the weekends or watching them on network television (we didn’t have cable in my community when I was a kid) was the way you filled your time. I really didn’t have much of a preference, either; baseball and basketball were my favorites, but I also enjoyed football and soccer immensely.

When I was 10 years old, my dad took me on the 30-minute drive to Knoxville, TN, and I attended my first real football game at Neyland Stadium. I’d been to see the Pittsburgh Steelers play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a preseason game in the same stadium when I was 4, but that doesn’t really count. I was too young to know what was going on and it was only an exhibition.

That Saturday, everything changed for me. As much as I enjoyed watching and playing the other sports, the electricity of the crowd that day, coupled with the speed and power of the game, led to football becoming my favorite sport to watch going forward, hands down.

As I began to follow the sport more closely, I realized how important every game was in college if you were going to have a shot at the national title, or at least a New Year’s Day bowl game. We also landed cable shortly thereafter and I began to follow my Dad’s beloved Steelers more closely and recognized again how important each win was in terms of playoff and Super Bowl aspirations at the pro level.

On top of the impressive athletes and enormous collisions, the importance of each weekend’s game was incredibly appealing to me, and that was the issue that further separated football from the other sports – where any single game was inconsequential – in my eyes.

Fast forward to today, and nothing has changed for me. I go into a funk after the Super Bowl ends, realizing that while I still have basketball and hockey to watch and although baseball is about to crank up shortly thereafter, my weekends will have a huge void for the next seven months.

I geek out over the draft in April, watch OTAs with bated breath through May and June and become giddy when training camps kick off in late July. Still, there is nothing quite like the feeling I get in early September when football returns to dominate the sports landscape. I love waking up on the Saturday before Labor Day to watch Herbie, Corso and the rest of the “GameDay” crew dissect the weekend’s games and, if possible (like last weekend), I’ll head into Knoxville and watch my Vols roll some undeserving opponent in the greatest college stadium in the country.

That’s just the appetizer, though. When the NFL returns the second weekend of September, things really get going. I’ve already made plans to watch the Steelers this Sunday, even though I’ve got some trepidation about how they’re going to perform while Dennis Dixon is under center. Every game is so important that the team has to play well over the next month – while Big Ben Roethlisberger is sidelined – if they’re going to have a shot at the postseason.

Between the college games on Saturday and the pro games on Sunday, I find it difficult to get much done this time of year. Heck, I’m having a hard time sitting here writing this. I’m ready to head to the house and get things ready for the Vikings/Saints kickoff game tonight.

That I have this much excitement and energy about a game featuring two teams in which I’m not emotionally invested just goes to show how passionate I am about this sport. It’s almost like . . . a sickness.

Yeah, a sickness! One that requires me to take the rest of the day off to, you know, “get better.”

Tailgating starts in 30 minutes. I’m outta here…

Nick Matijevich

The NFL season is almost here!

2010-09-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

Are you read for some football? I know I am, I love the beginning of football season. It means the beginning of fall and much better weather, it means my daughter is going back to school (she’s still young enough that likes going back to school) and it means almost every NFL fan has a chance to believe that their team can win the Super Bowl. Some teams in the NFL are clearly better than others and that also means some teams are not quite as good as others. Even with five elite teams and five rebuilding teams that leaves 22 other teams with fans all across the country excited about the possibilities for ending their season in Dallas with the Lombardi Trophy. The 2005 Steelers and 2007 Giants showed that if you make the playoffs then anything is possible including a Super Bowl win. The New York Jets almost followed the same path last year.

Like any other year in the NFL I’m excited about certain things going into the season. How will Brett Favre hold up at age 41? Will the New Orleans Saints be the first team since the New England Patriots to repeat as Super Bowl champions? Is it possible for the Indianapolis Colts to win 12 games again? Most importantly for my western Pennsylvania-based family, can Troy Polamalu stay healthy and return the Pittsburgh Steelers close to the 2008 defense as opposed to the 2009 version.

Only one week to go till the Saints open up the season at the Superdome against the Minnesota Vikings. Here’s to a great NFL season!

Trevor McGregor

Introducing Five Star

2010-08-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

Introducing the ultimate in collectability, Press Pass raises the standard for super-premium trading cards with Five Star.

Five Star Highlights

Each 5-card Pack Includes:

One Base Card Numbered to 35 or less

One Dual, Triple, Quad, or Oversized Memorabilia Card Numbered to 25 or less

One Autograph from an Elite Driver Numbered to 35 or less

One Autograhed Memorabilia Card Numbered to 50 or less

And...

Each pack also includes one Classic Compilations Book Card
Classic Compilations Book Card include:
Quad Autographed Memorabilia Cards

Cut Signature Memorabilia Cards
Dual Autographed Memorabilia Cards
Triple Autographed Memorabilia Cards
Autographed Premium 1 of 1 Patch Cards

Five Star is limited to an elite class of drivers. All Five Star cards are printed on exceptionally high quality, thick card stock and are accented with suberb foil treatments.

Check www.presspassinc.com for more information. Press Pass Five Star releases in November.

Helping the NASCAR Foundation...One Pin at a Time!

2010-03-12T06:15:00.000-08:00

The NASCAR Foundation announces its “Big Five” service projects and how you can help!

Last week, the NASCAR Foundation – which, for those of you who are not aware, is the charitable arm of NASCAR that embodies the compassion of the NASCAR family and its commitment to serving communities – announced that it will be organizing five keystone community service projects in five different cities throughout the U.S. as the backbone of its annual NASCAR Day event this year.

NASCAR Day, which was established in 2004 as the Foundation’s flagship community service project, is an annual celebration of the NASCAR spirit that enables fans, corporate partners and media outlets to join together to make a difference in the lives of children. Since its inception, NASCAR Day has raised over $8 million for multiple racing-associated children’s charities, including Kyle and Pattie Petty’s Victory Junction camp, the Childress Institute for Pediatric Trauma and the Speediatrics racing-themed pediatric units, among others.

What makes this year so unique, though, is that NASCAR Day is now going nationwide, creating awareness of children in need in five of the major racing cities throughout the U.S., including Atlanta, Daytona Beach, Fontana, Kansas City and Charlotte. This year marks the first time the NASCAR Foundation has taken on multiple service projects of this magnitude to raise awareness for children’s causes.

While the event is still trying to find its place among the millions of other charitable events associated with professional leagues, NASCAR Day has certainly come a long way since its early days. It started small, but has grown into an event of great magnitude that has had a lasting impact on the lives of the children and families it has touched for the past six years.

Annually celebrated on the third Friday in May, this year’s NASCAR Day will take place on May 21st.

Here's how you can help:

1. Purchase a collectible lapel pin for $5 by visiting:
http://store.nascar.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=3996571.

2. If you live near one of the "Big Five" service cities, you can volunteer your time and do things like helping build a playground at the Ronald McDonald House in Kansas City or renovating a room at the Aflac Caner Center in Atlanta.

3. Can’t spare $5? Then help spread the word about NASCAR Day! Call a friend who lives in one of these cities who may not be a NASCAR fan and let them know about the event, or post the link at the bottom of this post on your Facebook profile.

4. Become a fan of the NASCAR Foundation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NASCARDay.

To learn more about the NASCAR Foundation, NASCAR Day, and the “Big Five” community service projects, please visit www.NASCAR.com/NASCARDay.

Best time of the year??

2009-12-30T13:11:00.000-08:00

Hello to all and I hope that you all are having a wonderful and enjoyable holiday season! While the holiday season itself may be coming quickly to a close, college football bowl season is just getting heated up. As we enter the mid-point of the bowl season, we thought it only appropriate to highlight a few of the most thrilling – and not so thrilling – bowl games thus far this year. With 19 (of the more exciting) games left to be played and 13 under our belts, here is just a taste of what I (and I am by no means a college football expert, but someone’s got to do it) believe are the deserving winners of the following awards:

Biggest Let-Down: Georgia vs. Texas A&M. Independence Bowl. Georgia’s three unanswered touchdowns in the fourth quarter turned this competitive game into a rout.
Biggest Beat Down: SMU vs. Nevada. Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. Did you happen to watch the first quarter? If so, you saw the entire game. Congrats to Ponies on their fist winning season in over a decade and their first Bowl victory since 1984.
Biggest Comeback: I thought it should go to someone but I honestly haven’t seen one yet…Maybe UCLA over Temple in the EagleBank Bowl last night?
Biggest Upset: Pitt. Vs. UNC. Meineke Car Care Bowl. Okay, this obviously isn’t true as Pitt was ranked higher than the Heels, but as a born and bred Carolina fan, I had to say it.

Games to Watch this Bowl Season:
(In no specific order other than appearance…)

Allstate Sugar Bowl – Florida vs. Cincinnati
Friday, January 1st – 7:30p.m.
Reason(s) to watch: All eyes will be on this game to watch the Tim Tebow era at Florida officially come to a close. Whether you love him or you hate him, Tebow quickly blossomed into one of the greatest football players of his era during his career at Florida, becoming the “face” of college football. Tebow fans and foes will bid him adieu Friday at the Superdome after Tebow plays his final 60 minutes of football in a Florida jersey. Meanwhile, head coach Urban Meyer’s future at the school is currently up in the air as this could very well be his last game as the Gator’s leader. It will likely be a good match-up and a sad, sad day for Florida fans everywhere.

Konica Minolta Gator Bowl – FSU vs. WVU
Friday, January 1st – 1:00p.m.
Reason(s) to watch: It might not have the (or any, rather) matchup appeal as FSU’s struggling defense will likely be no match for the No. 2 rushing offense in the Big East, but it will have a dramatic tone as FSU fans will bid farewell to longtime coach Bobby Bowden. On Saturday, Bowden will coach his final game for the Seminoles against his former school. Let’s just hope it won’t be a blow out.

PapJohns.com Bowl – Connecticut vs. South Carolina
Saturday, January 2nd – 2:00p.m.
Reason(s) to watch: The Huskies became “America’s team” this year after cornerback Jasper Howard was killed in October and the team struggled get back on their feet, suffering five loses by 15 points or more before getting their season back on track. It will likely be a good match-up as well with South Carolina egos flying high after capping off their season with a big win over rival Clemson.

AT&T Cotton Bowl – Oklahoma State vs. Ole Miss
Saturday, January 2nd – 2:00p.m.
Reason(s) to watch: Ole Miss Dexter McCluster is likely to become the first player in SEC history to have 1,000 rushing yards and 500 receiving yards in a season. He needs 15 yards on the ground and 25 in the air. Despite Oklahoma’s stout defense, I’d say it’s a pretty safe bet he’s going to snag that record on Saturday. If you don’t care about the record, this will likely be a good game either way as both teams are equally competitive and have had shockingly similar seasons.

Citi BCS National Championship Game – Alabama vs. Texas
Thursday, January 7th – 8:00 p.m.
Reason(s) to watch: Not that it needs to be explained but it’s two of the most storied programs in college football meeting for the first time in 30 years. The star-studded matchup will feature Alabama’s Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram and their six All-Americans going up against Texas QB star Colt McCoy and an equally-loaded roster. Oh, and because it’s the National Championship Game.

In other news…a Quinnipiac University survey shows that 63% of people who consider themselves “college football fans” are in favor of ditching the current BCS system and replacing it with a playoff system. However, despite wanting a change, 48% of those surveyed don’t see the college football post-season as a federal issue and would like Congress to stay out of it…despite President Obama being in concurrence with the majority of those who want a “change” (ESPN).

Check back at the end of Bowl season for a complete recap on this year’s Bowl games.

Johnson Seals History with Fourth Consecutive Title

2009-11-25T08:47:00.000-08:00

The "Jimmie Johnson Dynasty" has officially begun.

Johnson has put himself among the ranks of legendary sports heroes such as Tiger Woods, Pete Sampras and Lance Armstrong.

He can now compare himself to the former greats of his sport, Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt and teammate Jeff Gordon -- none of whom have accomplished the incredible feat that he has.

He can also be held in the same high esteem as some of professional sports most legendary teams in history such as the New York Yankees and the Boston Celtics.

After clenching his fourth consecutive Sprint Cup Title with a fifth-place finish on Sunday at Homestead-Miami Speedway, the soon-to-be legendary Hendrick Motorsports driver finally gave credit where credit was due: to himself.

Appearing to have finally recognized the magnitude of what he had just accomplished, Johnson called the success of his team “unbelievable."

Johnson: "The truth of it is, to do something that's never been done in this sport ... To win four championships in eight years, what this team has done ... I don't know where to start.”

Johnson finished 141 points ahead of teammate and another heavy fan-favorite Mark Martin who referred to Johnson as "Superman" after Johnson sealed his fourth consecutive Sprint Cup Title.

Don’t expect this to be Johnson’s last victory, however, as he and crew chief Chad Knaus just signed a contract extension that will allow the dynamic duo to work together through 2015 and are showing now signs of slowing down in the near future.

Johnson: "I'm a racer. That's what I do at all times—I race. And I know I have at least another 10 years in me of racing, so while I'm racing, I want to be successful."

Not knowing what the future will hold, for now at least, Johnson stands atop the NASCAR world as a one-man dynasty.

Early Johnson Crash Allows Martin, Gordon to Narrow Gap in Sprint Cup Chase at Texas

2009-11-09T10:53:00.000-08:00

Just three laps into what was likely to be another solid finish on the way to an unprecedented fourth consecutive championship for Jimmie Johnson, one nudge put an unexpected obstacle in the path of his Lowe’s team. Slight contact from the No. 77 car driven by Sam Hornish, Jr. caused Johnson’s No. 48 car to slam into the wall on the backstretch in the Dickies 500, sending shockwaves through Texas Motor Speedway on Sunday

The crash caused a frantic scene in the pit as over a dozen Hendrick Motorsports crew members worked vigorously to reassemble Johnson’s mangled car, barely after the race had begun. After over an hour of repairs to the No. 48 car, Johnson re-entered the race 129 laps behind and was able to salvage a 38th place finish, picking up critical points to keep a lead in the Chase for the Sprint Cup.

Heading into Sunday’s race, Johnson held a 184-point lead over Hendrick Motorsports teammate Mark Martin, but now sits just 73 points ahead heading into Phoenix next week. Martin, who with 40 career wins but no Sprint Cup titles, is slowly making a case for himself as the best Cup driver never to win a Championship.

But with Johnson’s crash, a Martin Championship this year is not far-fetched.

Neither Martin nor teammate Jeff Gordon – who now sits just 112 points behind Johnson in Chase standings -- were able to capitalize on Johnson’s misfortune and come out on top this weekend, but both have certainly made the Chase more interesting.

In order to secure a fourth consecutive Sprint Cup Title, Johnson needs to average a fourth-place finish in the final two races of the season at Arizona and Homestead-Miami.

Meanwhile, Martin heads into Phoenix next week with a shot at his first ever Sprint Cup Title.

Press Pass to release Professional Bull Riding trading cards

2009-11-06T06:14:00.000-08:00

In January 2010, Press Pass Inc. will introduce its first PBR trading card set – 8 Seconds. Action packed with 2,000 lb. bulls, courageous bullfighters and the toughest cowboys in the world, 8 Seconds will bring you closer to the action than ever before!

8 Seconds delivers extraordinary value with three authentic rider/bullfighter on-card autographs and three rider/bullfighter-worn memorabilia cards in every 24-pack hobby box. Press Pass brings you closer to the action than ever before with a stellar lineup of memorabilia including rider-worn gloves, shirts, jeans and cowboy hats! Also look for bullfighter-worn memorabilia!

The “Toughest Sport on Earth” is captured with a 100-card base set the corrals the exhilaration and suspense of the most exciting eight seconds in sports. From the rankest bulls to the heroic riders and courageous bullfighters, 8 Seconds captures it all with action-packed photography and fascinating content.

Stay tuned to http://www.PressPassInc.com for more information including exclusive previews!

Good Times in Press Pass production land…

2009-10-07T06:13:00.000-07:00

As the lone production guy here at Press Pass, I am frequently tasked with interesting and far out ideas by our product team. Memorabilia cards in general tend to command much of my time. Cards containing sheet metal swatches can be a real challenge. Case in point: check out these swatches from Kevin Harvick earlier this year.

These particular swatches are about ¼” thick! I kept these on my desk for a while as they make a good conversational item. As you can imagine, it would be tough to make cards with these. By the time you encapsulate them, the card ends up being much thicker than the rest of the batch. Obviously these have some significant bondo work. That’s the “X” factor with sheet metal. We typically obtain whatever the teams are willing to part with. Usually that means a tore up piece of a race car or a piece that has been used for a while. Nice fresh flat panels used for a race or two are a rarity especially in these economic times when even the race teams are being more frugal.

Another wrinkle thrown in recently is the Car of Tomorrow. Teams are now required to reinforce some areas of the car. The honeycomb structure in the picture is part of what some are using near the driver area. This is permanently affixed to the inside of the sheet metal, again making the swatch thicker than normal and tougher to punch acceptable swatches from.

The punching process is a slow one too. The punching press and dies are really intended for making very uniform pieces in a machine shop setting where thousandths of an inch are measured. The dies are made and calibrated for a specific thickness of metal. One can then imagine what happens when you begin punching sheet metal that is all over the board in terms of thickness.

You tend to get some strange looks when you walk into a machine shop with a truck full of race used sheet metal and say “Hey, can you punch all these into little squares? And oh by the way you have to keep everything separated religiously.” But that’s all part of making memorabilia cards with you, the collector in mind.

Dreams do (sort of) come true...

2009-09-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

It's 1976. My neighbor Dave is the coolest kid I know. He's 9, plays drums, has a cooler bike, and gets to go to the KISS concert while my parents tell me I am too young to go. My bond with KISS grows stronger as I begin to wear disguises around town to hide my shame. Someday I shall make it to a KISS concert.

Years go by and I still have yet to attend a KISS concert. I am more mature now and, like KISS, no longer rely on masks. It is 1999 and I actually get to meet Gene Simmons - sort of. It's really this guy named Joe who is part of Dressed to Kill - a KISS tribute band.

Well here it is 10 years later and I am back behind the mask! I still haven't made it to my first KISS concert, but I do get to design KISS trading cards!!! Thanks Press Pass!!

Eric

Sonic Boom and KISS Tour Edition!

2009-09-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

So by now most everyone knows that Kiss’ new album “Sonic Boom” releases on October 6 and will be sold exclusively through Wal-Mart. What you may not know is that Press Pass has a companion product that will be sold alongside the CD/DVD…

Kiss “Tour Edition” is a 33-card set with lots of bonus goodies (three collectible boxes and posters!) culled from 35 years of Kiss tours. Full of vintage photography as well as set lists and insider info from the tours, this exclusive set is one retrospective every Kiss fan will want. Attractively priced at $10 it will be a nice compliment to “Sonic Boom.”

The Kiss boys announced their U.S. tour plans this week. All stops were voted on by loyal members of the Kiss Army. They will be near our office on October 17th and we’ll be in the house!

And can you believe that Gene Simmons just turned 60?! Wow….

The Top Three's

2009-09-01T05:56:00.000-07:00

With me being in sales during my 7+ year tenure at Press Pass Inc, my position has required me to travel across the U.S. to meet with existing customers, search for new business and to attend various tradeshows. Like anything there are pluses and minuses to traveling. On the plus side, I have been lucky enough to experience many different cities, restaurants and sporting events. On the downside, I have spent time away from my wife and my kids.

Let’s concentrate on the positive side and with that, I thought it might be interesting to share some of my favorite things from the road. Since everybody usually loves lists, I have compiled various “Top Three” lists ranging from favorite places to random thoughts.

Top Three BBQ Joints

1. Arthur Bryant’s-Kansas City: could eat there all day, be careful going at night

2. Charles Vergos’ Rendevous-Memphis: best dry ribs, don’t go on Monday

3. Fiorella’s Jack Stack-Kansas City: great burnt ends and brisket

Top Three Burger Places

In-N-Out Burger-West Coast-nothing comes close
Whataburger-South (but not in NC): please come to NC
Five Guys-East Coast: share an order of fries

Top Three Places I Want to Go

San Francisco-airport doesn’t count: great food in the airport though
Denver-see San Francisco
Milwaukee-just because

Top Three Underrated Places

Kansas City: obviously great BBQ, casinos, fountains, NFL, MLB and NASCAR, + two states
Columbus, OH: great arena and happening downtown area
Anywhere in West Virginia: Wild & Wonderful

Top Three (Four) Annoying Airline Passengers

The passenger that sits behind you and tells a stranger his/her life story so loud that even your IPOD can’t block out the conversation.
The passenger that snores (although sometimes that person is me).
The passenger that insists his/her carry-on will fit in the overhead compartment.
The passenger that chooses the Bloody Mary mix to drink, without the alcohol.

Top Three Random Airline Thoughts

The only time I drink Ginger Ale is on a plane.
The few times that I attempt to work the crossword puzzle in the complimentary airline magazine; it’s always completed by a previous passenger.
I never sit in row 13.

I’m off again in September to exotic places such as Indiana, Arkansas and Minnesota. Thanks for reading and for putting up with my drivel.

Kevin

Press Pass Goes Nuts With Dale Jr.

2009-08-25T08:47:00.001-07:00

Just how close can Press Pass bring you to Dale Jr.? Very few things are as vital to getting the #88 around the racetrack as a lug nut. At 200 mph it clings tightly to make sure the wheels don’t fly off. So, when it comes to bringing you a piece of the action, lug nuts are about as close as you can get!

In the highly anticipated inaugural release of Wheels Main Event, Press Pass is excited to announce the inclusion of a limited number of Dale Earnhardt Jr. lug nut cards. Joining an already stellar Stop & Go Swatches memorabilia roster that includes the first-ever pit wall banner, pit stacker, and wheel cover cards, these Stop & Go Swatches Lug Nut cards are the ultimate way for Dale Jr collectors to get a piece of the action.

Wheels Main Event is Press Pass’ first poker-themed NASCAR set. Each 20-pack hobby box will contain one authentic NASCAR autograph and two memorabilia cards. As a bonus, also look for randomly inserted autographs from professional poker stars. Wheels Main Event releases September 30, 2009.

These smiles are what collecting is all about

2009-08-12T06:57:00.000-07:00

Meet Eric and Nicole.

Having just attended the 2009 National Sports Collector’s Convention, we were fortunate enough to see tons of these smiles. It was so wonderful to have the opportunity to meet some of our collectors – to have those face-to-face discussions and really get to know our collectors.

Collecting is a hobby that millions of people are so passionate about and when I see a family collecting together like Eric and Nicole, or those families I met at the National, I smile just as big as Nicole pulling her Kyle Busch triple memorabilia card. It’s amazing to watch a hobby that began in the 1800’s being passed down and continue to the next generation of children today.

First Ever VIP Logo Edition Cards!

2009-08-03T10:35:00.000-07:00

Check out a sneak peak of the Get A Grip and Lead Foot Logo Edition memorabilia cards that are included in the August release of VIP 2009. Each driver on the roster has an oversized glove or shoe patch featuring the manufacturer logo. All Logo Edition cards are sequentially numbered to five.

Lead Foot Logo Edition
Carl Edwards (Simpson logo)
Jimmie Johnson (Alpinestars logo)
Kevin Harvick (Puma logo)
Kyle Busch (Alpinestars logo)
Joey Logano (Sparco logo)

Get A Grip Logo Edition
Dale Earnhardt Jr. (Adidas logo)
Jimmie Johnson (Alpinestars logo)
Kevin Harvick (Puma logo)
Kyle Busch (Alpinestars logo)
Kasey Kahne (Allstate logo)

Confessions of a Suddenly Lost DEI Fan

2009-07-14T04:42:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, Martin Truex Jr., along with Michael Waltrip Racing, announced that the current EGR driver now has plans to drive for the 2-time Daytona 500 winner’s team next season. EGR, as you know, is the result of the Dale Earnhardt, Inc/Ganassi Racing partnership that occurred earlier this year. As far as the other EGR driver, Juan Pablo Montoya, his contract with Ganassi Racing (this did not change when the partnership took place) takes him to at least 2011 with the team. Do you see where I am going here?

So, the question that I pose to you, faithful DEI fans, is this: Who do we cheer for now?

When a racing team is wiped from existence due to economic downturn, the suspicious mixing of 2 prescription drugs, the loss of manufacturer support, not being able to race enough to even come close to the top 35 in owners points (and any other of the countless reasons why teams in 2009 have had to call it quits) — it becomes a sad time for all of those mourning their losses. Sad for DEI fans, especially. With all of the loss that this team has encountered over the past 8 years, it is a wonder that I have stuck around long enough to see it all progress to this. The moment for me is a difficult one, since I have been a DEI fan mainly because of association (yes, a large part to why I am a fan is in part that I have a family member who has worked there for many years). As I have watched this sport change over the years, I have come to realize that it is very tough to be a “true” fan of one specific driver for very long. The reasons will need to be listed, since it could get quite confusing:

Reasons why it is tough to be a “true” fan of one specific driver (for very long):

1. Good today, unpredictable tomorrow – Jeff, Carl, Kasey... Where did you guys go?!
2. Constant change of sponsorship — The days of a steady sponsorship deal are just about numbered (for all of you with the #8 Bud car tattooed on your tush...)
3. Lost in the shuffle of a new number — Poor Clint Bowyer fans, I bet you though he would be carrying your favorite Jack forever! I am sure that 07 CB hat has a nice dust bunny family living on it now...
4. He got married...had a kid...and gained 30lbs — For the ladies out there who were hung-up on their dreamboat of a driver... “He ain’t what he used to be”
5. They’ve gone over to the “dark side” -- Dale Jr fans, need I say more?
6. The mugshot isn’t as cool as the in-car camera — The “Do you know who I am?!” behavior has caused not only embarrassment for the team owner, but for the fans, too. (We can only make so many excuses for your off-track performance...)
7. The Retired or The Lost – Whether you were a Rusty Wallace fan or a Dale Earnhardt fan, you miss cheering their names.
8. Slap Fights – During a race, your favorite driver was spun out by their teammate – after the race, that favorite driver of yours decides to throw a “made you blink” air punch at his teammate – leaving you wondering why you cheered for him in the first place.
9. Team changed manufacturers – For the Chevy lovers…a Toyota just isn’t the same.
10. They just can’t win – Plain and simple.

As I have racked my brain for a full week, I cannot shake the thought that I will follow into a new season of racing, and not have a favorite. Can a fan just watch a race without the expectations of their favorite winning? As I type this, I am remembering the last few years of my life where I have watched (and listened – thanks to TrackPass scanner) every weekend and been disappointed with the outcome of many races…too many. The most interesting and exciting races have been those where some crazy things have happened and have lead to first wins, streak breakers, and championships won. As I look at the list above, I can’t help but think that these are the things that most fans love to see and hear about. It is like reality TV…most people deny that they watch it, but are secretly addicted to it.

If you can stick with “your driver” for a period of time (as every driver has their bad days…and their REALLY bad years), then I commend you – for this sport is full of unexpected turns…regardless if they are always turning the wheel to the left.

So, DEI fans, who will you be cheering for next year? Will you stick with Truex Jr. and follow him to MWR? Fall back on Dale Jr? Or will you be waiting for another young Earnhardt from the Nationwide Series…?

Kristen

Did you know?

2009-07-10T05:17:00.000-07:00

It seems that 2009 is the year of changes and it is no different here at Press Pass.

As some of you may have noticed things have been shaken up a bit when it comes to our products. Everything we are doing this year is bigger and better. There are multiple levels added to our autograph and memorabilia card programs and later this month we are releasing our first ever high end product Press Pass Showcase.

And I am about to offer up a crazy idea that just might change the way you look at trading cards. When you are ripping through Press Pass 2 why don’t you take the time and read some of the interesting facts that are on the back of the base cards?

Press Pass 2 is a great product to do this with because if you are like me, a novice NASCAR fan, it will allow you to learn more about the drivers, the teams and more about the Nationwide series and the Truck series.

Don’t get me wrong I love opening a pack and seeing a great memorabilia card or nice autograph card, but once all the packs are opened I sort the base cards and then sit down and read the back of the cards. I learn something new with every product.

For example did you know that Jeff Burton recently did a guest spot on General Hospital? Or did you know that Carl Edwards has been a licensed pilot since the age of 17? Or that Sam Hornish Jr. is the narrator of “Roary The Racing Car,” a cartoon on PBS Kids Sprout?

You never know what you might learn if you just take the time to stop and look at the base cards.

Allison

Showcase sneak peek

2009-07-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

So working at Press Pass means every now and then getting to be a part of some fairly interesting and unique cards. Here's an example of some of the live cards that are part of the super premium Press Pass Showcase 2009 release. These are the Carl Edwards Prized Pieces Melting level memorabilia cards. Enjoy!

Machines or Magic?

2009-07-01T11:25:00.000-07:00

So there you sit, anxiously awaiting the arrival of your boxes of Press Pass Series 2. It’s been a few days since you last ripped some packs. You crave that feeling of excitement and anticipation that you get when you tear open a pack and find that Dale Jr. auto or over-sized autographed Tony Stewart memorabilia card. Ah, the joy of ripping wax.

To many of us, there are few things that compare to the insatiable pleasure of opening packs of trading cards. But have you ever wondered how those packs are made? Where do those shiny packages full of so much joy come from? Is it magic? I used to think so, and for those of you who are absolutely convinced that the trading cards you buy are packaged far away on the enchanting "Isle de Collectia" by magical elves, please stop reading now or may your visions of grandeur be forever tarnished.

It’s hot. The thermometer on the dash of the rental car shows an exhausting 105°. This is a place where thin blades of scorched grass crumble beneath your feet as you walk and the tar from the asphalt turns to liquid. Welcome to summertime in Dallas, Texas. Yes, the “Isle de Collectia” is actually a 300,000 sq ft facility on the outskirts of Big D. This is where the “magic” happens.

Charlotte, NC to Dallas, TX 1,026 miles

After the cards are designed, built, approved, and printed. They’re sent to this facility for “pack-out” where a Press Pass representative flies down from Charlotte to oversee everything and ensure each card, pack, and box are as perfect as possible.

Production Facility

First, all of the various base cards, inserts, autographs, and memorabilia cards are loaded into feeders on a production line. Throughout production, the feeders are constantly monitored and reloaded to keep everything running smoothly.

Top view of a card feeder on a production line

The feeders drop the cards at various insert rates onto a moving line. Each feeder is timed to drop its card(s) at exactly the right moment. Several tests are done prior to production to ensure that each feeder is dropping the right cards at the right time.

View of a trading card production line in action

The line quickly whisks the groups of cards down the line and into a machine that wraps and seals each pack.

Cards entering the wrapping machine

After the cards are wrapped, the packs pass across a scale which is designed to weigh each pack and catch any packs that have too many or too few cards before they go into the boxes.

Packs are weighed as they pass through the production line

From there, packs are sorted, shuffled, and inserted into the boxes by hand. Boxes are placed on a conveyor belt where they are shrink-wrapped and placed into cases.

Finished boxes being shrink-wrapped

After that, it’s pretty simple. The cases are shipped to customers, and then the fun begins!

Now that you have an idea of how the products you enjoy are made, you can appreciate them even more. Oh, and as for how we get actual signatures on the autograph cards without using sticker – well that truly IS magic.

The King(s) of Wine Country

2009-06-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, California there were two kings of wine country. Ironically, the “King of Beers” took the checkers as Kasey Kahne drove the #9 Budweiser Dodge to victory. In an exciting duel with Tony Stewart, Kasey surprised many fans and experts given the fact that his best prior finish at Sonoma was 21^st. Several late cautions led to double file re-starts that kept the battle exciting. The race was particularly exciting at my house given the fact that my wife is a big Kasey fan--just like one of those 40-something women in the Allstate commercials. But that’s whole other story!

While I was happy to see Kasey win for the first time since last June, I was thrilled to see “The King” step into victory lane. My all-time favorite driver, Richard Petty, got a chance to bask in the glory of victory for the first time in many years. One of the class acts in all of sports and a true champion & humanitarian, it had been 10 years since a car affiliated with Petty had gotten to the winner’s circle (John Andretti at Martinsville in 1999 for you trivia nuts). It was great to see King Richard get some mic time to congratulate Kasey on national TV as soon as he got out of the car. We hadn’t seen enough of The King as competition got tougher and tougher over the last few years for the relatively small Petty Enterprises. Then, after the 2008 NASCAR Sprint Cup season, Gillett Evernham Motorsports merged with Petty Enterprises to form Richard Petty Motorsports. While there have been some frustrations with RPM for Kasey so far this year, he is still only 3 points out of the Chase hunt after his unlikely road course win. Hopefully, Sonoma will be a turning point for RPM and the “two kings” can continue to celebrate many more times this season….

Tom

Four Color Process

2009-06-17T05:09:00.000-07:00

Did you know that most of the images you see on our trading cards are reproduced using only four inks? During the printing process, four inks are used in combination to reproduce the images you see on the card: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. If you take a magnifying lens and look closely, you will see many series of “dots” that actually make up the image. The dots are typically small enough that our eyes don’t see them but instead they see the overall picture. Through the use of computer programs, a continuous tone photograph is separated into the four colors listed above. When the colors are printed using dot patterns and overlaid together, the image is recreated and our eyes see what appears to be an image with thousands or millions of different colors. Check out the below two images. The first slice is cyan only, followed by cyan + magneta, cyan + magenta + yellow, then all four colors. In the second image, the dots have been magnified.

Even with these four colors though, there are still certain hues that cannot be reproduced. Deep oranges and greens are typically outside the range of four color printing. Another process called hexachrome utilizes the four colors of ink plus two additional colors to extend the gamut. Usually orange and green are added. While useful for specialized images or high end looks, hexachrome is not as cost effective and therefore used only occasionally.

Other spot colors are used on a regular basis. For example, we use white inks when printing on foil or plastic substrates. Sometimes certain spot colors called metallic inks are used which actually contain tiny bits of metal flake. These give a specialty look without the expense of foil stamping or foil board.

So the next time you see someone looking at a card with their magnifying glass, they might just be checking out the dots!

Legends Contest Winners Announced!

2009-06-10T08:46:00.000-07:00

Press Pass would like to thank everyone who took the time to provide us with input on the drivers you would like to see include in Legends along with your feedback on the top families in racing.

Check back soon for details on the exciting changes to Legends 2009!

And the winners are...

Allen Norton
(Box of 2009 Premium)

Larry Baxter Jr
(Box of 2009 Premium)

Michael Boykin
(Dale Jr. auto)

Addicted to Facebook

2009-06-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

Addictions…yes, I may have one.

Facebook.

I admit, I have a shortcut on my phone that takes me straight to my Facebook account and much to the dismay of many friends, have been caught on Facebook at times I should probably have been paying attention to whatever social outing we are on.

Facebook is such an easy way to keep track of events, reconnect with people, and stay in touch with people. I’ve reconnected with friends in different countries I haven’t seen or spoken to in over 10 years.

Now, when you meet someone new and would like to keep in touch, the typical question is not, “What is your phone number?” but instead, “Are you on Facebook?”

So, fellow Facebook addicts, for your enjoyment, we have created a Facebook page for Press Pass, Inc.!

Become a fan of Facebook, and you’ll get an inside look at our company, products, and office events!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Press-Pass-Inc/200646630323

SURVEY SAYS...

2009-05-22T04:45:00.000-07:00

We would like to learn more about you and get your feedback! Please take a couple minutes to answer our survey and receive one free exclusive promotional set of Press Pass cards.

Click here to begin the survey

Win Free Prizes for Providing Input on Press Pass Legends 2009!

2009-04-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

Press Pass wants your input! We are working on our 2009 release of Press Pass Legends and are interested in drivers that you would like to see included in this year’s product.

Please review the list of 30 drivers below and give us your opinion on 5 ADDITIONAL drivers that you would like us to consider for inclusion in Press Pass 2009 Legends. Please keep in mind that the drivers you select can be from other forms of racing and can include any driver featured previously in Press Pass Legends, but not listed below.

Please choose the 5 drivers you would most like to see in Press Pass Legends 2009 that aren’t listed below.

Bobby Allison
Davey Allison
Mario Andretti
Kyle Busch
Ralph Earnhardt
Dale Earnhardt
Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Carl Edwards
Tim Flock
Jeff Gordon
Dale Jarrett
Ned Jarrett
Jimmie Johnson
Alan Kulwicki
Terry Labonte
Mark Martin
Rick Mears
Benny Parsons
David Pearson
Lee Petty
Richard Petty
Tim Richmond
Fireball Roberts
Tony Stewart
Curtis Turner
Al Unser
Bobby Unser
Rusty Wallace
Darrell Waltrip
Cale Yarborough

Two participants will be randomly selected to win a box of 2009 Press Pass Premium!

BONUS QUESTION:
Tell us who you think are the top racing families of all-time. List (in order) your opinion on the top families of Motorsports. Provide between 5 and 10 responses.

One participant will be randomly selected to win a vintage Dale Earnhardt Jr. autograph!

Please respond no later than May 12th in order to be eligible for the prize drawings. Be sure to include your name and email address so we can contact you if you win.

Double Yellow

2009-04-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

What a race this weekend turned into! Talladega at it’s best folks and I’m glad everyone walked away too. Watching Brad Keselowski take his first trip to victory lane while dueling it out with top Cup stars Carl Edwards, Dale Earnhardt Jr and Ryan Newman was a thrill. Was anything else even on television yesterday? I was glued to this race. Until yesterday, most of the Cup races have been a bit on the mundane side with a few minor exceptions at the short tracks.

I think though that we can almost always count on ‘Dega for a thriller from start to finish. Nascar has helped with the excitement level first with the restrictor plates and now with the double yellow line rule. As we all know, you can’t improve position passing below the double yellow line – hence the Regan Smith debacle at the last Talladega race. Of course if Smith holds his car above the line last year, he spins Stewart and wins the race. That’s exactly what Brad did yesterday. He had a run on Carl, and when Carl went for the block, Brad did the only thing he could do without being penalized by Nascar: hold his line. Even the Nationwide race on Saturday was a knockout with David Ragan claiming his first win in any of the top three series with a last lap pass.

Congratulations to Brad Keselowski on his first Sprint Cup victory! Look forward to seeing him win a few more and maybe the All-Star Race as well. Check out upcoming Press Pass Nascar trading card products for cards of Brad Keselowski, David Ragan and all the other top stars of Nascar.

Opportunity Knocks, Will You Answer

2009-04-01T12:47:00.001-07:00

As we endure the 16th month of the current recession there are many opportunities and decisions that are uniquely apparent. As a Sales Rep for Press Pass it was a timely decision to re-establish the Press Pass die cast brand by bringing back the traditional 1:80 scale Tractor Trailer. Known as the flagship collectible to sports die cast enthusiasts, the 2009 tractor trailer will be clearly marked with the date on the rear panel of each truck. Although this may seem insignificant to many casual fans, the die cast collector will have the opportunity to continue display their cherished yearly collectible that originated in 1989 with White Rose.
This seemingly small change along with the re-introduction of the NFL car with card gives both collectors and retailers a great opportunity. Sports die cast can be to a retailer what the familiarity and emotional security of comfort food offer to today’s consumer. Press Pass’ die cast line offers both collectible and play value as well as two attractive price points that most value conscious consumers will consider affordable.
As we all re-examine both our personal and business spending patterns, it is crucial to make sure your business’s marketing and promotional dollars are well spent. Here are six cost effective methods of promoting your business that may offer a good return for the resources that you have to spend.
A. E-mail marketing: An effective e-mail marketing campaign costs very little and has a much higher response then direct mail marketing. Ask for customer e-mail addresses and specific interests. Classify and manage this information effectively for a low cost, high return campaign.
B. Create a presentation on the hobby that is appropriate for community groups, schools, summer camps or any organization that might want a speaker with an interesting topic. Use any type of media you are comfortable with including Power Point, sound, video or samples. This tool can be an effective way to promote your business by attracting new collectors.
C. Pay per click internet advertising: Although this can be expensive, you have the control to limit keywords, clicks per day, and the money you spend. The other advantage to this method is the ability to track every unique visitor to your website and see if you are getting your desired return.
D. Social Networking: This exploding category is only limited by your knowledge of the applications available. Whether you are “tweeting” about the 2009 Chicago Bears Tractor Trailer or you are creating a business profile on Face book or My Space. Do not ignore the opportunity that message boards, blogs, forums, and other social networking web sites present.
E. Remnant Space Advertising: As ad revenues drop precipitously now is the time inquire about the unsold space or air time from various media outlets. Be sure to check appropriate sources for your business including national and regional magazines, radio, newspapers, and television. Remnant or excess advertising inventory can sell for 75-90% off of line pricing.
F. Public Relations: Have you reached out your local library to participate in the kid’s summer reading program? Consider holding “non-traditional” events at your store or business to attract local, national, or even international attention. These events could be anything from a blood drive to a collection for your local food bank. The opportunity comes just in time as nonprofit groups around the country are reporting a surge of interest in volunteering as a rise in unemployed workers meets an increase in human need. All you need is a few new loyal customers from these events to make your efforts pay off.
There are two notable examples of how investment in previous economic downturns has paid off. Many conventional thinkers would have been happy to invest in a dotcom during its peak in 1999. In fact the best time to start a technology based company was in 2002 after the huge downturn when the price of starting a business including real estate to programming talent was lower. Finally there is the famous example of John D. Rockefeller Jr. who was charged with spending his father’s fortune. In 1931 construction began on Rockefeller Center. At the time this was seen as privately funded public works project. The building was completed in 1946 and over 75,000 were employed in its construction. Needless to say the investment has paid off as Rockefeller Center still maintains its place as pre-eminent building in the city that never sleeps.

Benjamin Goldman
Senior VP Operations
National Sports Associates

Get Inked With KISS

2009-03-12T11:15:00.001-07:00

For years, a disgrace has been embedded in body art as ink is in the skin. Perhaps that attitude was perpetuated by the fact that traditionally, tattooed people tended to be somewhat on the fringes of society, and have occupations that were not exactly mainstream and a little mysterious-like pirates, sailors, Japanese warriors, and gypsies. It gave body art a rather romantic, outlaw reputation.

Today, tattoos have become something of normality with the likes of movie stars and rock stars jumping on the bandwagon to get inked. The general public's fascination with celebrities gives them the power to give a voice to their cause, and influence our culture. More and more stars are making appearances with their tattoos hanging out and showing them off on the red carpet, giving their admiring fans one more reason to run out and get inked.

For better or worse, it's the idea of symbolism that draws people to tattooing. People commonly seek designs that celebrate or commemorate significant events in their lives, such as the birth of a new baby or the passing of a loved one. Some people choose a symbol of an immense accomplishment, like surviving cancer or serving time in the armed forces.

We obviously have come a long, long way in the ability to articulate self expression, making getting a tattoo more and more acceptable in today’s society. Getting a tattoo is a way to display art that is deeply meaningful to the owner. It has become ok to ask someone what their tattoo stands for. In fact they wouldn't have it so prominently displayed if they didn't want you to notice it.

Tattoos have become iconic symbols of design. What better way for me to be able to incorporate my love for the art and tattooing than to combine it with our upcoming entertainment release- KISS Ikons.

KISS wanted to be different than other bands of their time- more theatrical, odd, and shocking-something to remember. They knew they didn’t want to go onstage looking like your “Average Joe” band in shirts and jeans. That is when they began experimenting with make-up, with small amounts of black, white and silver. The here-and-there on the face paint jobs eventually evolved into full-face designs.

It was these full-face designs that inspired me to draw four different tattoos, one for each band member of KISS- the Starchild, the Demon, the Spaceman, and the Catman. Thousands of designs are out there for people to choose from, with styles of tattooing ranging from your traditional Irezumi (Japanese tattooing) to the “Old School” sailor tattoos of sparrows, hearts and anchors. Incorporating the uniqueness of each band members’ iconic face paint with these traditional forms of tattoo design, I created four unique member specific tattoos that are sure to drive KISS fans wild.

KISS Ikons hits store shelves in mid-April, and my four unique tattoo designs (along with 14 other classic KISS tattoos) will be available in Target, Wal-Mart, and your local hobby shop. Here is a preview of my designs.

The Catman

The Spaceman

The Starchild

The Demon

The Perfect Saturday

2009-03-05T04:29:00.000-08:00

This past weekend featured the perfect Saturday. It was pouring rain (and would continue to do so all day long) when I headed out to the gym bright and early for my daily workout. But I didn’t linger around when I was finished because I had a better place to be on this rainy Saturday. Where you ask? There was a trading card show in our town this past weekend and I couldn’t wait to get there…

I showed up armed with my various lists of cards needed to finish sets I was working on. Everything from my 1965 Topps Baseball set, to singles of my favorite team (NY Yankees) and odd ball stuff in between…The show provided the perfect sanctuary from the deluge outside. As I walked the floor my spirit was restored as I remembered exactly why I love this hobby so much. Despite the fact that this was a relatively small regional show there still were all kinds of things to check out. Graded packs caught my eye immediately…I couldn’t remember the last time I saw an unopened pack of McHale’s Navy cards but I had some of those cards as a very young kid…

My buddy and co-worker Tom Farrell is one of my favorite people to attend a show with. The dude finds the craziest stuff on the floor. And the best part is his “presentation” of the most unique cards he has found. Tom loves to collect “world leader” and “explorer” cards. His big find this weekend was a 1952 Leif Ericson card. Not to be mistaken for Leif Garrett mind you... TF also scored a sweet 1969 Tom Day Topps football card which is quite simply a photo of a guy who seems happy with his place in life at that time. Not to mention he was a San Diego Super Charger and is wearing the sweet powder blue duds of that era.

I found some great ‘65s for my set (including a Lou Brock SP) as well as some other things (2007 Topps Heritage Baseball Derek Jeter SPs). But the best part was talking to people I’ve known in this industry for a long time. Guys and Gals who spend lots of weekends working shows making it possible for people like me to get a chance to pursue my passion. A person can get lost at a trading card show and I don’t mean physically…there is something to be said for memories, both old and new. And on this past Saturday I said hello to a few old cardboard friends (including a 1969 Horace Clarke card just like the one I once drew a mustache on) while meeting some new ones as I cracked open a few packs of the brand new 2009 baseball releases.

It was the perfect Saturday.

D.J.

The Press Pass 500

2009-02-04T08:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday four members of the Press Pass Team competed in the Press Pass 500. The PP500 is the 500-mile journey from Press Pass' Headquarters in Charlotte, NC to Daytona Beach, Florida. The team posted two impressive 1,200-second pit stops in South Carolina and St. Augustine.

The Jeep Commander fired on all six cylinders without any issue, although the SUV was loose in the turns going through Jacksonville. The team arrived in Daytona safely, and today we began preparations for our annual Daytona Photoshoot which we hold in the Goodyear Tower in the infield at Daytona.

Tomorrow each of the drivers will stop in at the photoshoot during their media day tour and take a few photos for Press Pass. We use these photos throughout the season, and the drivers also sign their Press Pass hats at the event. The hats are prizes in Wheels American Thunder.

To give you all an idea of what our trip to Daytona is like, we will be posting photos and stories from our trip. Here are some photos from around the track this morning at Daytona International Speedway. Enjoy!

Entering DIS

Driving Under the Track

The Lake!

SAFER Barriers @ Turn 4

Coming out of Turn 4

From the Top of Turn 4 Looking Down

Flag Stand @ Start/Finish Line

Looking Down Pit Road

Empty Seats at the Start/Finish Line

Coming into Turn 3

Where We Lost a Legend
Stay tuned for more!

Snow time in the Tennessee mountains

2009-01-29T05:50:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year when I really enjoy getting outdoors and soaking up the snow and cool air, especially in the mountains. So my wife and I headed to, well, what most would call an unlikely tourist destination: Oak Ridge, TN. That’s right, the “Secret City.” Our primary mission was to check out the immense Coal Creek OHV park in our Land Rover. We enjoy the scenery of being out on the trails, along with the challenges and adventure of off-road driving. Did I mention it was winter?

Winter showed up just in time as the snow began flying soon after we rolled into town. It just kept coming down for the next two days and made for some very scenic driving. Temps were cold (to us) most of the week but especially earlier in the week where lows dipped into the low teens and it struggled to make it into the low 20’s during the day. Snow has a way of adding another level to the trails. At certain points, it can actually add traction; however, as it begins to thaw the trails get slick again! Trails that normally have running water across them freeze over in these conditions. This is the point where you will find the least amount of traction period. A sloped trail, solid smooth ice with a very slight film of water on top. Fortunately for us, the Warn winch on the front of the Discovery came in handy several times when we encountered these conditions.

Taking a break from the trails, we visited the science museum in Oak Ridge. It was fascinating to me to read about the history of this city. If you aren’t aware, Oak Ridge is where components for the first atomic bomb were made in the early 40’s. The city was built by the government and kept secret specifically for this purpose. Entire trainloads of all description of cargo would enter the city from around the area and leave completely empty. To the amazement of folks in surrounding areas, a lot of stuff went into Oak Ridge and nothing seemingly ever came back out! If you’ve never been to check it out, I highly recommend visiting the museum and reading the history behind it all.

If you enjoy pictures of the snow and scenery of the Tennessee mountains, check out our photos from the trip at: http://www.rockytopphotography.com/web-data/images/RoverAdventures/CoalCreek1-09/index.htm

Happy Trails!

Aaron

What’s your New Year’s resolution?

2009-01-16T07:20:00.000-08:00

Every year at this time most of us go through the same process of setting goals for the New Year. Some will follow through on their goals while most have abandoned their plans by mid-February.

So how about making a resolution this year to not have to make any resolutions in 2010? What?

That’s right, I have a plan. The plan is to make small, permanent changes in 2009 that will result in not having to make any resolutions for next year. As a personal trainer (that’s my other gig) I see people constantly dealing with the battle of the bulge. Staying in shape is not rocket science. But it does require consistency.

You can’t tackle any big obstacle all at once. You have to patiently chip away at it. And the only way you can do that is to change your train of thought and your approach. For example, say you want to lose 40 pounds. Well you know you aren’t going to lose that in a month (you’re not) so you have to break that down into small, quickly achievable goals. Like 2 pounds a week. That’s something you can measure in a mere week and at the same time have a successful outcome. Remember, that 40 pounds didn’t get there in a month to begin with…

So instead of these massive behavioral shifts in January of every year how about we start making some small but significant changes daily; weekly; monthly. They say it takes 30 days to form a habit, so make a pact each month to change something about your life that you’d like to see take a different path. Before you know it your New Year will be resolution free and you can live your best life!

D.J.

VIP Gift Bag #8: Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

2009-01-13T13:28:00.000-08:00

And the winner is:

David McMahon of Concord, CA.

Congratulations! Thanks to everyone who entered the VIP Gift Bag Contest.

VIP Gift Bag #7: Jeff Gordon

2009-01-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

And the winner is...

Mike Young of Prescott Valley, AZ.

Congratulations! Stay tuned for next week's final Gift Bag drawing.

VIP Gift Bag #6: Kasey Kahne

2008-12-29T12:52:00.000-08:00

And the winner is...

Joe Hoptowit of Toppenish, WA.

Congrats Joe!

Stay tuned for future winner announcements.

VIP Gift Bag #5: Jimmie Johnson

2008-12-22T06:53:00.000-08:00

And the winner is:

Bob Schneeman of Abingdon, MD.

Congratulations! Stay tuned for upcoming Gift bag drawings.

VIP Gift Bag #4: Kevin Harvick

2008-12-15T10:28:00.000-08:00

And the winner is:

Adam Miller of King City, OR.

Congratulations! Stay tuned for upcoming Gift bag drawings.

Coin Collecting

2008-12-10T08:51:00.000-08:00

I’m a numismatist – coin collector. I’ve been in and out of the hobby over the years; each time I’ve given it up, I’ve managed to show a reasonable profit but just couldn’t stay away from it for long.

I automatically look closely at the coins and bank notes that I receive in change. I actually received a 1954 proof nickel in change from a soft drink machine at work; sadly it had picked up a few scratches along the way and a $20.00 coin is now worth at best $1.00
So what is it that is so addictive about coins; what captivates a person and draws them into this fascinating hobby? In my case it’s the beauty and history of a coin or bank note.

For example, the 2001 American Buffalo Commemorative Coin, which is based on the original Buffalo Nickel, is a magnificent 1.5 inch diameter silver coin. I remember saving three months to purchase one.

Other people are drawn to the hobby for different reasons; I know a coin dealer who got involved because he wanted to own a coin that had circulated when Jesus was alive. Now he owns his own ancient coin business. It is an awesome feeling to hold a coin in your hand that is over 2,000 years old and wonder whose hands it had passed through on its journey to yours? Perhaps those of Jesus - you never know!
People often ask how can I afford to collect coins and bank notes – my response is fairly simple – my hobby is self financing and it saves me money, no pun intended.

Remember a coin has different values; its face value, its metal value and its collectable value.
Example - the 1927 gold Quarter Eagle -
Face value $2.50
Metal value $150.00 (depending on spot gold price)
Collectable value $225.00 - $1,500 (depending on condition)

The above 1927 $2.50 gold Quarter Eagle is worth $2.50 as a US coin – but – as we are no longer on the ‘Gold Standard’, the metal value has soared as has its collectable value.

Happy collecting – whatever it may be!

Norm

VIP Gift Bag #3: Carl Edwards

2008-12-09T11:07:00.000-08:00

And the winner is...

Paul Cantine of Santa Ana, California.

Congratulations! Stay tuned each week as we reveal the winner of each VIP Gift Bag.

Go Wolfpack!

2008-12-03T11:42:00.001-08:00

Everyone has their favorites. For some it is Dale Jr. For others it is Troy Aikman. For a few it is the Boston Red Sox. But for me nothing can come close to North Carolina State University football!

I remember the moment that I was hooked. My sister attended NCSU from 1992-1996. But it was two years after she graduated when I realized that it was always going to be the Red and White for me. It was Sept. 12th 1998. I was thirteen years old and a freshman in high school. My family had season tickets since 1993 and no matter what was going on even if it was pouring down rain if there was a game we were there. It was a Thursday night and I was sitting on the grass behind the goal posts. I watched wide-eyed as NCSU made history and defeated Florida State. It was the first time that Florida State had lost since joining the ACC.

I don’t remember the final score or who the play makers of the game were or who the coach of NCSU was at the time, but I do remember that feeling. It is something to watch your team win a huge game.

I am very proud of my Wolfpack because this year they went from being considered possibly the worst team in the ACC to being Bowl Eligible. While I got to experience that historical win sadly I’ve never been to a bowl game. I’ve watched my fair share of them on television like the Orange Bowl back on January 1, 2003. I would have given anything to see Philip Rivers beat Notre Dame. I can’t image what that experience would have been like.

So to all you hopefuls out there with your fingers crossed that your team (cough…Florida…cough) make the big game I hope that you get to experience the glory that is college bowl games whether it be on the television or in person. I hope to some day see NCSU win the big game.

Go Wolfpack!
Allison

VIP Gift Bag #2: Martin Truex Jr.

2008-12-02T06:53:00.000-08:00

And the winner is...

Eric Wiegelman of Hooksett, New Hampshire.

Congratulations! Stay tuned each week as we reveal the winner of each VIP Gift Bag.

VIP Gift Bag #1: Tony Stewart

2008-11-25T05:34:00.000-08:00

And the winner is...drum roll please:

Patrick Neeley of Goshen, IN.

Congratulations! Stay tuned each week as we reveal the winner of each VIP Gift Bag.

#3

2008-11-19T10:15:00.000-08:00

Sad as it is for all us true NASCAR fans, what has been an exciting season of Toyota domination, MANY back flips by Carl Edwards (I'm dizzy just thinking about them) and three close series points battles, the 2008 NASCAR season has come to an end. What better place for it to come to an end than with the final races being held at Homestead-Miami Speedway where the weather was hot, sleep was NOT an option and the hunger to win championships caused many a stomach to rumble.

I myself never thought that the #3 would again play such a role in the world of NASCAR after Earnhardt was taken from us back in '01. But leave it to a guy like Jimmie Johnson to change that. Having worked with Jimmie during our annual Press Pass photoshoot during Daytona Speedweeks and having the opportunity to chit chat with him between the clicks of the camera, I realized from that exact moment why he was by far one of the greatest drivers in the industry today. Not only does he have the mad skills to win big at his job, he has a great attitude towards life and a genuine heart that ties the entire package together. I'm not a band wagon type of girl-I've known JJ was a bad a&* driver for sometime, but to be that cool-well it only made me more of a supporter to Jimmie and his Team Lowe's members.

Good driving skills, fast engines, and record pit-stops no doubt will get you to the front of the field, but it is the confidence JJ and his team have in each other as friends, family, and teammates that empowers them to win.

After winning his third championship this past weekend Jimmie stated: "I could go race again next week and start the season and go for four ... It's on our minds. It's not that we're chasing a number, we just know what we're capable of. We know we can do better. It's a search to do the best we can".

Congratulations to Jimmie Johnson and Team Lowe's on their 3-peat!

Legends Racing Contest Winners

2008-11-14T12:21:00.000-08:00

The following users won a box of Legends Racing.

Almac377
SorensonSuperCollector

Thanks to all that entered.

Steeler Nation in the Nation's Capitol

2008-11-10T04:30:00.000-08:00

Last Monday I was in Washington, DC on business with a couple of Press Pass colleagues and was fortunate enough to score some prime location tickets to the Monday night Steelers-Redskins matchup at FedEx Field. Aside from the great seats, there were many things that stood out about this game vs. other games I've attended over the years. The Monday Night Football atmosphere was great, We arrived early to avoid traffic, tailgate, and watch the players warm-up. Several times over the course of the 90 minutes of warm-ups, the classic old-school MNF theme blared over the top notch sound system---awesome. A Redskin player played catch with people in the stands for a solid 15 minutes. Throwing to the first row to 20 rows up; it was a fun atmposhere. The enormity of the 92,000 seat stadium also stood out. It sells out every game and the waiting list for season tickets is long beyond belief. The 'Skins could probably sell out a 150,000 seat stadium!

However, the thing that stood out the most to me was the amount of Steeler fans present. There were Steeler jerseys all over---from Franco Harris to Troy Polamalu to Big Ben. I know that the Steelers are perennially one of the top selling teams in terms of NFL merchandise. Each year at www.presspassinc.com we sell more Steeler diecast than any other team. This fact was reinforced by what I saw at FedEx Field. During the player introductions and throughout the game, the infamous gold "Terrible Towels" were everywhere! At times you had to wonder if you were in DC or Pittsburgh, I think quite a few of the Redskin season ticket holders made some large cash selling their Monday night tix to members of the Steeler Nation. While the majority of fans were rooting for the hometown Redskins, I bet a solid 25-30% were cheering on the Steelers. The fact that the Steeler fans had a lot more to cheer about in the 23-6 victory made their presence seem even larger. If the Steelers come to vist your stadium, prepare to cheer extra loud for your team (or make a bundle selling your tickets!).

Tom

A few more suggestions for NASCAR…

2008-10-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

Not that they are listening. Is anyone else sick of seeing qualifying for Sprint Cup races rained out? I know I am and I’m sure the fans at the track for the weekend are even more so. That was the story this past weekend at Atlanta once again. According to Jayski, this was the 10th qualifying rain out of the year out of 33 races. 30% are you kidding me? Of course when this happens, they line up by points which obviously translates into a major gift for those near the top of the standings. Of those 10 races, every winner had a starting position inside the top 10. I can understand if it rains for two or three days straight, but they could have easily qualified on Saturday this past weekend. If they did this, Joey Logano may already have his first Sprint Cup win by now.

While we’re on the subject of qualifying, please let’s get rid of this “top 35 make the race regardless of how slow they qualify” rule. Make every competitor qualify on speed. If someone crashes on their qualifying run, allow them a second lap with a backup car.

On another note, I think it would be interesting to see fewer tires used during the race similar to Nationwide. If there was a rule allowing only a certain amount of tire sets per team for the race, this would allow much more strategy and give teams with lesser funding more of a fighting chance. Say for instance they have a 300 lap race and the tires last 50-60 laps. Allow each team 7 sets of tires maximum for the race. This will keep the big money teams from going to new tires if there are cautions every 20-30 laps. It will force them to think about no tires or two tire stops versus always coming in for four tires.

My two cents…feel free to post your comments!

PS – lots of great comments posted about the Legends blog/contest below. However, many of you posted without leaving any type of contact information either in your profile or your post. It’s time to pick some winners so if you could please update your profile with an email, phone, or other method of contact! Thanks

Preview: Legends Nickname and Inscription Autographs

2008-10-08T11:49:00.000-07:00

For the collector that’s looking for a little something extra, you’ll want to check out the upcoming release of Press Pass Legends. Drivers were asked to sign a handful of their Legends Autograph cards with an added nickname or inscription, and they didn’t disappoint!

NASCAR drivers have some pretty interesting nicknames, several of which you’ll find in Press Pass Legends 2008…you’ve got “Texas Terry” (Terry Labonte), “Sliced Bread” (Joey Logano), “Rowdy” (Kyle Busch), “Mr. September” (Harry Gant), and “The Fox” (David Pearson) to name a few.

Many drivers chose to include an inscription about some of their career defining accomplishments such as “2006 & 2007 Champ” (Jimmie Johnson), “69 Indy 500 Winner” (Mario Andretti), “2003 Champion” (Matt Kenseth), “85 Cup Wins!” (Bobby Allison) and “2 Time NASCAR Cup Champion” (Ned Jarrett).

The driver with one of the most unique Press Pass Legends Autographs is Darrell Waltrip. In addition to his signature plus #17, his wife Stevie Waltrip has also added her signature to some of his cards.

Click on the images below for a look at some of the inscription and nickname autograph cards available.

Leave us a comment and tell us which one is your favorite. Two winners will be selected to receive a free box of 2008 Press Pass NASCAR Legends trading cards.

Press Pass Legends releases in late October. Check our website www.presspassinc.com each week to find out more information about this product that uniquely combines legendary racers from the past along with current stars and up and coming legends of the future.

Don’t let me down, Kyle

2008-10-01T13:10:00.000-07:00

I’m a Kyle Busch fan. Yeah, I said it. Now I know 80% of you reading this probably despise Kyle, and you’re rolling your eyes as you sit in your National Guard pajamas and take another sip of your Amp Energy drink. Your loyalty will always remain with the driver of the #88, and I respect that. But I like being different. I also like the fact that the guy can wheel a race car around a track like no one I’ve ever seen. I had a Camry in high school, and I guarantee you it wouldn’t have made nearly as many trips to victory lane as the #18 did this year. Apparently not all Camrys are the same.

After being replaced with a "better driver" at Hendrick Motorsports, Busch found refuge in a stable of other drivers who are also driven by their innate desire to win. It didn’t take long for Wild Thing to make sure Joe Gibbs didn’t regret adding him to the team. With eight wins in the Cup Series and 19 total wins across all three series in the regular season, I was confident going into New Hampshire that Kyle would have a championship trophy to add to his collection come November.

Enter race four of the Chase and Kyle finds himself in last place, behind four drivers who failed to visit victory lane even once during the season. Kyle won eight times! How did this happen? I’ll admit that in previous years, Kyle’s recklessness and inexperience severely contributed to his demise, but with those issues resolved, or should I say seemingly under control, this was going to be Kyle’s year! What happened?!

There are seven races left, and sitting in 12th place in the standings Kyle has nothing to lose. But, maybe that’s how he wanted it. Maybe he was so bored with being all alone at the top of the field that he wanted to create some excitement and wanted a challenge. Maybe he thrives off of racing like he’s got nothing to lose. Maybe there’s a reason he feels at home in the middle of a three-wide pack. Maybe he wants to give fans of other drivers a glimmer of hope that their precious driver might win the title before he dominates the field once again.

The next few weeks will determine how this chapter in Kyle Busch’s racing career will unfold. No, I’m not burning my Kyle Busch man purse just yet, and I may or may not be mischievously lobbing M&M’s at the #88 car when the field comes to Charlotte in a few weeks. In the meantime, I’ll reflect on the highlights of a dominating 2008 season.

Remember this?

Breaking Down The Chase For The Sprint Cup

2008-09-21T10:23:00.000-07:00

Despite the fact that Kyle Busch, Carl Edwards, and Jimmie Johnson have won 18 of the first 26 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races in 2008, now that the Chase roster has been determined, 12 drivers set their sights on winning the 2008 Sprint Cup. Here are some interesting facts that you may or may not know about this year's Chase contenders.

*Jimmie Johnson & Matt Kenseth are the only two drivers to make the Chase since it's inception in 2004. Kenseth's top finish was a 2nd place effort in 2006. Johnson is going for his third straight Cup title in 2008, a feat that has only been accomplished once, when Cale Yarborough won three in a row from 1976-1978.

*Kyle Busch, Jimmie Johnson, and Carl Edwards certainly have momentum on their side. Starting with the July 5th Daytona race, they combined to win 9 straight events up through the final race before the Chase at Richmond on September 7th.

*All 12 drivers in the 2008 Chase for the Sprint Cup are Chase veterans. In addition to Johnson and Kenseth participating in all five years of the Chase, this is at least the second Chase for the Cup that the other 10 drivers have been a part of: Jeff Gordon & Tony Stewart (4 times), Jeff Burton, Kyle Busch, Carl Edwards, Dale Earnhardt Jr, Denny Hamlin, and Kevin Harvick (3 times), and Greg Biffle & Clint Bowyer (2 times).

*Four drivers in the 2008 Chase have yet to win a race in 2008: Jeff Gordon, Kevin Harvick, Matt Kenseth, and Tony Stewart. Entering the 2007 Chase they had a combined nine wins between them.

The Chase for the Sprint Cup has truly given NASCAR a "playoff" atmosphere. With a little luck, any one of these 12 drivers can step up and claim the title. There are a lot of interesting stories in this year's Chase. I don't have a favorite, but I would love to see a close race that gets decided in the final laps of the season at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Bowl Me Over….

2008-09-15T04:18:00.000-07:00

In terms of fitness and athletic prowess, one of the most popular sports in America—bowling—pales in comparison to the superhuman feats of the “ultramarathoners” referenced in Aaron’s recent blog below. However, I’m sure we bowlers have more fun (and less chafing!). As another bowling season starts up, it’s time to not just set records of mediocrity--and hopefully roll the elusive 200 game!--but to also bond with neighbors and friends seldom seen in the “off season.”

While pitchers of your favorite cold beverage are the usual backdrop to league night, the most common bond at the alley, a bond that runs thru the fabric of America, is sports. Sports are on the numerous TV monitors and big screens. Sports are also on the minds of bowlers of every size and shape. Bowlers often don the attire of their favorite team or school on bowling night—particularly if they’re on the big screen that evening.

From Saturday college football games to speculation on how the new rookies will impact their NFL teams to the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup to the MLB pennant races, it's easy to find that common ground. When the conversations with new acquaintances move towards “where do you work?” it’s fun to see most people light up when I tell them I market “trading cards and sports licensed diecast vehicles.” It’s a fun product line/hobby that people can relate to, and a hobby that helps feed a fan’s passion for sports and gets them a little closer to the athletes and teams they cheer on.

So head on out to the alley and strike up a conversation (sorry, couldn’t resist).

Tom

Athletes of another order

2008-09-03T08:14:00.000-07:00

I’ve been mulling over in my mind what to write about this week and my thoughts go back to my most recent vacation. Some wouldn’t exactly call it a vacation but it is one of my favorite things to do. My dad and I went backpacking for 8 days in the Weminuche Wilderness of Colorado on the Continental Divide Trail. The CDT runs for nearly 100 miles through this wilderness area crossing only one remote dirt road near the end and stays above 10,500 feet in elevation the entire time. Physical fitness is a must as covering that kind of mileage in eight days at that elevation with a 40lb pack is no small task. Adding to the physical challenges are the mental aspects of putting one foot in front of the other and making that slow, steady progress. The scenery provided rewards at every turn and the ultimate reward was reaching our goal at the end.

While challenging for us, it’s a walk in the park compared to some of the seemingly super human accomplishments I’ve seen and read about recently. I’m not referring to Jeff Gordon or Carl Edwards roughing it for a few hours in triple degree heat during a Sprint Cup race. I’m talking about someone like Dean Karnazes otherwise known as The Ultramarathon Man (www.ultramarathonman.com). Karnazes recently completed 50 marathons, in 50 consecutive days, in 50 states. Not impressed? How about running without stopping for about 80 hours and covering 350 miles in the process? Now we’re getting somewhere! The guy obviously has it together physically and mentally. It makes me wonder what exactly is the physical limit for running non stop above 350 miles.

Another name that comes to mind: Ed Viesturs (www.edviesturs.com). Viesturs is a mountaineer of mountaineers. Among his many great mountaineering feats, he has climbed Everest six times and has topped out on all of the world’s 14 highest peaks (all above 8000 meters). Then you have the more recent and better known names like Lance Armstrong and Michael Phelps who are head-and-shoulders above their peers. And what about a name like “Flyin’ Brian” Robinson – first known person to hike the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide Trails within a single calendar year logging 7,000+ miles in the process.

So you may not find these names on the ESPN top 100 athlete list, but from an endurance standpoint, they are most likely in better shape than most on that list and just about anyone we see playing a major sport on television these days. They are athletes of another order.

Aaron

Fanatical Sports Fans…

2008-08-28T10:25:00.000-07:00

It never ceases to amaze me how fanatical sports fans of all walks of life are in relation to their favorite sport, team and/or, individual personality. They clamor for everything-there-is regarding their personal interest, from history, statistics, etc., all the way to sharing their passion with the ownership of cherished licensed sports collectibles and souvenirs. They proudly show, wear, eat, drink, sleep and still can’t get enough of their fill.

Have you been to a collectible/souvenir section/store/website recently? It seems like anything and everything is fair game. This frenzy of the thousands of items fans could purchase is fed by the companies who produce them, who are limited only to their imaginations of what the next prized piece might be.

Whether you’re an all-consuming serious or a casual fan, there’s something for everyone whether it’s a pennant, trading card, bumper sticker, die-cast car/truck, or one of the other thousand items. Personally, I get a charge out of being part of a company (Press Pass) who produces officially licensed sports trading cards, die-cast cars-trucks-choppers and knowing we’re a piece of that overall sports fan's pride and passion.

Jim

Olympic Sized Design

2008-08-25T05:45:00.000-07:00

I'm not a collector, I'm a fan of sports and competition in general. I've always casually checked out the Olympics when I turned on the television and they happened to be on. This year was different for me. I am sure most of you witnessed those amazing opening and closing ceremonies with all of the synchronicity and cool technologies playing together. I was blown away! But then it went even further for me. I started to notice how much art and design have become an integral part of sporting events - especially The Olympic Games.

Every logo, each athlete's uniform, the graphics displaying results, and even the Olympic torch, medals and the stadium itself are all works of art. This year's Olympics have changed the way I will watch sporting events. I now have a full appreciation for the behind-the-scenes design teams who add almost as much excitement as the athletes themselves.

Eric

Full Circle

2008-08-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

I went to my first NASCAR race on July 4^th 1984, the Firecracker 400 in Daytona Beach, Florida. I don’t remember much about the race save that we had infield camping tickets and that Richard Petty and his #43 STP Pontiac won the race. I don’t even remember what year we went to the race or if I was 8 or 9 years old. I asked my mom and she didn’t remember the year either, just that “The King” won. With little help from Wikipedia I was able to find out that Richard Petty won the 1984 Firecracker 400 so I was 8 when I saw my first NASCAR race live.

My family ended up spending a total of five Fourth of July weekends making the trip up the Florida coast to watch the Firecracker 400. I remember the last race much more than the first race for two reasons. My mom’s favorite driver, Bill Elliot, won but also the race wasn’t actually held on the 4^th of July. We celebrated Independence Day and set off fireworks at home that year since the race was on July 2^nd. My parent’s enthusiasm for racing combined with actually going to a few races has made me a NASCAR fan since my youth. From Cale Yarborough and Richard Petty to Dale Earnhardt and Bill Elliot to Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson I’ve enjoyed spending the last 25 years watching cars go fast and turn left.

An even greater passion of mine is collecting cards. My grandfather turned my brother and I into sports cards collectors. My grandfather had given me a Dale Murphy card, when Dale was the reigning National League MVP. That card mixed with TBS broadcasting (RIP Skip Caray) every game is what made me a die hard Atlanta Braves fan. I eventually moved from sports cards to trading card games. I was fortunate enough to get a job in the trading card industry almost seven years ago.

I started at Press Pass in early 2005 to help form the trading card game division. While I’d worked in the trading card industry for a few years before Press Pass, my previous company didn’t have any sports products. As much as I enjoy TCGs I am a much bigger sports fan than a TCG fan. Press Pass was my first chance to start mixing my childhood passions. Although I worked for Press Pass, my efforts were focused on making the TCG division successful. I didn’t get to spend near enough time working with the NASCAR or football product teams for my liking. I’m a sports fan - what fun is working for a sports-licensed company and not working on the sports products!

All of that changed this past April when I moved into the customer service/sales department. Now I get to be involved, at least a little bit, in every product that Press Pass produces. My racing passion might have faded some over the years, at least compared to baseball or football, but I do still remember being that 8 or 9 year old trying to stay cool in the Florida heat at infield at Daytona International Speedway while watching cars zoom by. Seeing some of the great NASCAR products from beginning to end brought back my racing enthusiasm pretty quickly.

Since moving over in April the first product I’ve seen from the very beginning was Press Pass VIP 2008. Even though we aren’t directly part of the product team, a member of CS/Sales takes part in the product meetings for each product and VIP 2008 was my first NASCAR product. I got to see early card rosters, autograph mock-ups, designs, and possible memorabilia pieces. Every year VIP is one of our best products and it was great that I was able to take part in the process from early planning to the logistics involved in making sure fans can get their cards on the release date.

Not everyone gets to relive a childhood passion in their job almost 25 years later. Being more involved with NASCAR really has certainly made following racing more exciting. I try and watch at least some of every race. I even repaid the 24-year-old favor to my dad and took him to the Coca-Cola 600 here in Charlotte this past May. VIP 2008 releases next week and I couldn’t be more excited. I hope you join me next week in opening a few packs looking for that Triple Grip or the Dale Earnhardt Jr. AMP Four Wide.

Trevor

Fourth Elvis Artist Sketch Card Revealed

2008-07-31T07:02:00.001-07:00

Our latest Elvis trading card release Elvis By The Numbers will feature unique artist sketch cards of Elvis Presley. These "Mini Masterpieces" feature original hand-sketched artwork from renowned Elvis artist Joe Petruccio. Previews of the first three pieces can be seen on our website. This is the fourth (and my favorite)!

Elvis Is Back!

2008-07-31T05:12:00.000-07:00

Forty years ago 33 year-old Elvis Presley put on what many feel was the greatest performance of his career. Although commonly referred to as the '68 Special or the '68 Comeback the spectacular production was simply titled Elvis.

Now, I wish I could write about what it felt like to share NBC's studio with the King of Rock 'n' Roll on that hot Thursday in Burbank California and hear him energize the crowd with classic hits like "Hound Dog" and "Heartbreak Hotel". I would even settle for being able to write about how it felt to see Elvis in his stunning black leather outfit sitting in a cozy circle next to Scotty Moore and DJ Fontana and belting out classic hits like "That's All Right" which made the 1-inch speaker on my 9-inch black-and-white television rattle on a cold Tuesday in December of 1968 when the show first aired. Sadly, I cannot. Unfortunately as an Elvis fan, I didn't come to existence until four years after his death (and hadn't even heard of the '68 Special until 2005). Now, the closest I have ever get to the Comeback Special is seeing it play in the visitor center across from Graceland's gates in Memphis as I wait for the bus to take me to Elvis' front steps for another tour of the house, which is where you can find me in two weeks.

Although I will never truly get to experience Elvis as so many of his fans did, I am lucky enough to get to help preserve his legacy. As Product Manager for our Elvis trading card brands I have had the pleasure of working with and getting to know some of those who were close to him. I must admit, when I hang up the phone after talking with Scotty Moore, DJ Fontana, or James Burton I often sit in silence for a minute and think about how surreal it is to talk to someone who was that close to perhaps one of the most famous entertainers in the world. And when I received the Elvis-worn Japanese kimono that we purchased for our latest trading card release, I swear you could feel Elvis' presence in the office.

It's a pretty powerful thing to hold in your hands a piece of clothing that he once wore, and one of the joys of what we do at Press Pass is getting to share that feeling with our collectors. Many of you probably can't afford to go out and purchase the red western shirt that Elvis wore in the movie Stay Away, Joe or a weekend Army pass that Elvis signed while he was in Germany serving our country. However, you don't have to because we get to bring a piece of him to you. When we tossed around the idea of cutting up shirts that Elvis once wore for a trading card my initial thought was "No way!" It just seemed so wrong. But as I got to know Elvis through my research and I found out more about the man he was, I realized that Elvis' fans meant the world to him, and he recognized that they were the ones who helped him along his rapid rise to fame. I also learned that Elvis was a giver. He always gave to his friends, his family, and his fans. So when I was faced with the dilemma of whether to let an Elvis shirt sit in a dark attic in some collector's house, only to be seen by a handful of people, or let thousands of Elvis' fans and admirers own their very own piece of Elvis, the choice was pretty simple.

You can own your very own piece of Elvis history with our latest trading card release Elvis By The Numbers which releases next month. If you're lucky enough to be at the Elvis Expo in Memphis during Elvis Week, stop by the Press Pass booth and you can be one of the first to open the newest release. Check our website for more information on Elvis By The Numbers.

I Was There!

2008-07-25T07:41:00.000-07:00

So often you hear sports fans share their stories about some of the significant sporting events they have witnessed in person - a no hitter in baseball, a playoff clinching NFL game, a Tiger Woods US Open victory, etc... There are some things that just having the memories of "being there" mean a lot more than watching it on TV ever could.

In June, I had the opportunity to attend the third ever Subway Series between the Yankees and the Mets. The games themselves weren't particularly spectacular (unless you enjoy watching each team beat the other by 9 runs in the other's stadium). However, considering that both teams will be getting a new stadium in '09, it will go down as the last Subway Series played in either one of those ballparks. As a baseball fan, I was excited to witness that in person, and get the full experience of trying to rush out of one ballpark to get to the other in time for the first pitch.

It got me thinking about some of the other significant sporting events that I've been able to witness in person. Looking back, the two events that standout to me the most are a NASCAR race and a tennis match. I attended the Coca-Cola 600 back in 1994. The race itself wasn't spectacular, but the winner was. Jeff Gordon walked away with his very first NASCAR Cup Series victory in that race. Since then he has gone on to capture 80 more victories and four series titles. The other event that sticks in my mind as significant is a 2006 US Open third round tennis match. Like the Coca-Cola 600, the tennis match itself wasn't a top performance, but the result was meaningful. It was Andre Agassi's final match before his retirement. After he lost, he grabbed the microphone and gave a moving speech to the crowd. He walked off the court to an incredible standing ovation, where everyone in Arthur Ashe Stadium, regardless if they were an Agassi fan, understood how much he had contributed to the sport over the last 21 years.

So now that I've shared my "I was there" memories...what are some of yours?

“I got a Basketball Jones….”

2008-07-14T04:13:00.000-07:00

Each year I look forward to the NBA draft in late June. There are many reasons...First of all, I enjoy watching college basketball; particularly the "Big Dance" in March/April. One reason is that my alma mater, the University of Memphis, usually has a competitive basketball program. This year the Tigers came as close as they ever have to winning the National Championship. If it weren’t for a lucky shot by Mario Chalmers, the Tigers would’ve have been #1 instead of Kansas. Of course, Jayhawk fans and alum (including our Press Pass Customer Service Manager, Terri) may disagree about the “lucky” part, but I digress…

Another reason I enjoy the draft is because, we (Press Pass) get to see where all of the rookie prospects (who we negotiate autograph deals with in April, May, & June) end up. We take pride in assembling a strong roster of the top rookie prospects each year. This year was especially gratifying for me since 3 Memphis Tigers were drafted (Derrick Rose, Chris Douglas-Roberts, & Joey Dorsey) and all 3 will be included in our set which ships in late July. Particularly satisfying was to see Derrick Rose be chosen first overall by the Bulls. While Memphis didn’t win the National title game, at least Memphis took the top spot in the draft! March Madness and the Final Four--that’s all old news now anyway! The “here and now” is NBA Summer League and rookie potential. I look forward to Derrick, CDR, and Joey making an impact at the next level---Go Tigers!

P.S. Oh yes, as difficult as it was for me to be objective, we also signed up a few of those Kansas Jayhawks to be included in our 2008 Press Pass Basketball releases…even that Chalmers guy.

Tom

Nascar, take a right

2008-07-06T15:06:00.000-07:00

As many of you diehard or casual Nascar fans may know, the three national series are filled with cookie cutter ovals of varying length. We even see multiple visits to the same tracks, many of which are nearly the same configuration like Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, NC. While I love watching the races each weekend, even I wonder why so many keep watching when most of the tracks are so similar. Sure you have a couple road courses thrown in here and there(2 out of 36 events), but the vast majority are cookie cutter mile-and-a-halfs. To top it all off, Nascar runs all of these ovals in a counter clockwise direction.

My solution: let's run some of these tracks in a clockwise direction to mix things up. Just think about it, most of the drivers are engrained with turning left. I think at least for a few of the drivers that making right turns around these tracks would be somewhat of a challenge. In addition, the car itself is setup specifically to make better time through a left turn.
Having to go around the track in the opposite direction would not only be a challenge for the driver, but for the pit crew and team as well. Setting up the car would be totally different and making a pit stop could be quite interesting.

While I am sure Nascar will continue running the same direction for years to come, they could very easily run a Nationwide or Truck race clockwise as a test platform for the Sprint Cup. So come on Nascar, take a right!

Aaron

Why we love sports...

2008-07-02T13:53:00.000-07:00

Has anyone been paying attention to the baseball pennant races lately? Specifically the American League Eastern Division. In case you haven't noticed, the name at the top of the standings does not feature the city name of either Boston or New York. It's not even Baltimore or Toronto. Who's left you ask? Why it's the Tampa Bay Rays. These aren't your old Devil Rays anymore.With an infusion of young stars like Evan Longoria (he's no Desperate Housewife), B.J. Upton, Scott Kazmir, James Shields and the superstar Carl Crawford these Rays are no longer laughable. Despite some key injuries (Closer Troy Percival and Slugger Carlos Pena) this team just keeps getting better.There's a lot of baseball left to be played but you know what they say about underdogs...the longer they hang around the more dangerous they become. The Red Sox are currently getting a taste of the new Rays having dropped two straight in a head-to head showdown.So just when you thought it was another cakewalk to the playoffs for the mighty Red Sox and Yankees along comes cinderella wearing a stingray on her baseball cap. The clock hasn't struck midnight just yet and we're going to find out if the Beantowners and Bronx Bombers can swim...

D.J.