JediDefender.com Forums

Community => Conventions => Topic started by: bobafett14 on October 1, 2004, 01:24 AM

Title: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on October 1, 2004, 01:24 AM
For anyone in the Pgh. area:

The December show will be the first weekend in Dec. as always.  Dec. 4-5, 2005. Only about 2 months away.

Jesse and I had a pretty good time at the last one.  Any questions, feel free to email me  bobafett.fourteen@verizon.net.  Usually some good SW finds, and usually get together w/the PA SW Collecting Society, and we almost always end up dragging our butts to Hooters at some point (usually Sat. afternoon/eve.)
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on October 1, 2004, 03:33 AM
Matt, think you can make it out here since we go to Hooters?  :)

Seriously though it is a good time, if not a bit of a small show...  Though the December one's the largest one we have actually.  Still, it's no SDCC, but it's fun and we all almost always go home with something.

I know I always buy up the random junk some table is selling...  Got a bag of MLC 3's for customs one year while the table catty-corner from him was trying to sell me one in sad shape for $10.  The bag of 3 were complete and parts were in there for like 3 more...  And I got it for $7.

I found a MIB (inserts, and no stickers applied) A-Wing there years and years ago, a MIMB B-Wing sealed, and my telescoping Luke (long before all the repros of him started to show).  It does yield some interesting fruit at times. :)
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on October 10, 2004, 04:57 PM
I usually go for the little stuff, and common stuff to plug holes(can always get stuff cheap)

Found some cool foriegn and bootleg SW stuff through the yrs., always grab a vintage item every year, one guy sells the SW ornaments for like $5 a pop.
 
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 14, 2004, 09:55 PM
Took me a while to post, but here's what I grabbed:

A vintage carded 12back sandperson.  Big crease down the center of the card, and some spider veins in the top left corner, some edge wear.   $100.

Carded At-At driver ESB with revenge offer. $10 (actually it was a package deal both for $110)

Also a boxed vintage SW TIE fighter (box was in GREAT shape) $35.
A loose vintage Han Solo blaster $10 (it works great)

Also, just recenly bought a collection from a guy pretty cheap: Sears set/Blue snaggletooth(no box), 2 AT-AT's WITH chin guns, etc., Jabbas playset, mini rigs, about 50-60 vintage loose with and without weapons, tie interceptor, original TIE, battle damaged TIE, 2 X-wings, death star space station, ewok villiage, Dagobah playset, etc. etc.  GOT a good deal on the whole lot, only needed a few vehicles, and the sears set, well worth the $$$ I paid.

 


Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on April 1, 2005, 02:29 PM
For our limited few, the show's back next weekend at the Monroeville, PA Expo-Mart.  I'm not expecting a huge show but if I have the time free to go I'm gonna try to make it.  Sounded to me like the rest of the local guys (for the most part anyway) were gonna make the run down.

Personally my $'s gearing up for C3 so things locally are taking a back seat.  Plus I gotta get my schoolwork done before I get out to Indy...  I don't want that on my mind while I'm there.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on April 6, 2005, 08:34 AM
I'm going, and I'll probnably suck it up, and pay the extra $5 ($10 total) to do the early bird entrance.

One of my "newer" areas I'd like to focus on will be Lego figures.  (I've stayed completely away from the Lego sets period up to this point, save for a few $1.99 sets I found on clearance).

I'd like t o get in, and do a quick run through to see if anyone has them in any clearance bins, or whatever I can find.  They aseem reasonably priced right now, and I just have a feeling this will be one of those quirky segments that will catch on as time goes by.

We may do the brews' afterwards. ;^)
 
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on April 6, 2005, 07:33 PM
I've got a whole collection of Lego SW you can have for what I paid for it Bob, if you wanted. :P

Catch on or not, I don't have room for all these side-things I've bought over the years like MM's, Legos, etc.  Just too much stuff for too little room.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on April 6, 2005, 10:04 PM
Just lookin for the Lego figures.  If you have them, I'll take em.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on April 8, 2005, 06:26 AM
Well, I do Bob, but I've got sets so I'm keeping that junk together.

I'll talk to you Saturday most likely...  Well, god willing I get this paper to where I'm content...  I'll likely just call you during the show this time so I'm not searching you out like last time, haha.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on April 9, 2005, 08:29 PM
Good time!  ;D  No raspberry brew  >:(

I picked up a vintage loose Luke ST w/helmet (repro I think) and a vintage loose  Han/Carbonite ($100 for both)

Also an EPI  Gungan sub w/Obi-wan for $5!!!!! (NEVER saw that when they hit retail)

and about 22 old mags w/sw covers for about $20.  MAD, Lucasfilm Fan club, Starlogs, Pop Mechanics, etc.

Observations:

* Animated Clone troopers going for about $12-$15
* Lots of ROTS Red&Blue Guards, clones (pilots, commanders, etc.) all going for about $15ea.  VERY few if any Mas Ammedas to be found-he's a heavy fig.  ;)
* Darth Taters $7.99(tons)
* Lots of vintage carded and loose.  A few store displays, but the store displays were freeaking rediculously high priced!!!!!!!!!!!!    :o

Lots


Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on April 10, 2005, 03:23 AM
I wound up wiht extras of the Outlander wave for $5 each, a couple E1 battledroids for $3-ish each.  I got an IMp. officer (blonde variant) for $5 as well.

I got two beast/junk thingies for customizing.  One's going to be a neat Stormtrooper mount on a swamp planet with another one (it's actually dino bones of some sort) I'll use for a diorama piece.

Got a G.I. Joe I wanted for $8 just for his one accessory thing.  Very cool piece I plan to use for customs.

Nabbed a couple ROTS figs on the way home but nothing special.

Didn't buy much, just wnet home dead-ass tired and slept most of the evening.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on May 10, 2005, 11:01 PM
Next Pittsburgh Toy show will be held on July 30-31 Sat/Sun at the Monroeville Expomart.

Having a Star Wars theme to it with the release of the movie and all.  There are 1,000 free figures that will be handed out to the first "paying" customers. First come first served until supplies are exhausted.

See you there. 

This show should be very interesting with all the exlusives and all the new stuff hitting now.  I'm sure they'll be lots of wheelin' and dealin' going on for this one.

Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on May 11, 2005, 01:12 AM
I truly hate our Toy Show for scalpers though...  It's turned into (well, it's this way every time STar Wars is on a "high" I guess) a scalper's delight...  $15-$20 Ephant Mon's on $3.99 KB cards, every ROTS figure you couldn't find was at the show last go-round...  Pisses me off sometimes.

I think the show is going to be smaller with them breaking it up, but I hope I'm wrong...  I'll be there, but for every Target Clone I see I'll feel like leaving a Cleveland Steamer on their tables.   ::)
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Famine on May 11, 2005, 12:40 PM
July 30-31 eh?

I'll try to make it.

How much is admission? :)

Kevin
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on May 11, 2005, 10:34 PM
$5

There's an "early bird" admission, which a lot of people do for an extra $5 ($10 total)

The reason for the early bird (aside from yet another way to make a buck) is that there's usually a TON of people lined up for the start of the show, by adding a few $ to the admin. it suts down the initial crowd rush  a tad.

This is the first time they've tried a show in July, it's always been a bi-annual event April/Dec.  so we'll see.


Either way, there's a lways a ton of the SW guys there.  A bunch from PSWCS and even some from the OSWCC.  It's fun just to meet and hang out, the brews always seem to taste pretty good afterwards also. ;D



Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Famine on May 12, 2005, 12:11 AM
Yeah, I definatley think I'll try and make this one. I'll talk to my friends in Jersey and PA, and see if they want to meet up for this event. :)

Kevin
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on June 7, 2005, 11:50 PM
The Toy Show returns in late July...  As per our front page.

If you're in Pittsburgh, pop on by!
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on July 26, 2005, 01:12 AM
I'll be there Sat. around 8AM as usual, hit the show, hang out for a few hours, and we'll probably start to head on over to John Harvards for a few drinks around 11:00ish.

Usually everyone starts showing up around then, and then one by one the guys join us as they finish thier "shopping".

Also, Vaughn and I are heading to Tom's Run to squeak in 18 holes Sunday Am if anyone wants to join us!!!! :^)

Also, the 501st will be there, and the first 1,000 people in the door will get a free SW action figure.

(hey, even if it is an EPI Jar-Jar, hey...its SW and it's free!)

 
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on July 26, 2005, 02:24 AM
I'm planning to get there earlier this go-round...  May as well I figure.

Every damn time there's a funk throughout the show though...  distinct body-odor smell.  Damn scalpers.  :)

Should be good though...  I always look forward to the Toy Show.  I just hope it gets a big turnout.  I've got some things I'm on the prowl for this outing so that should be cool.

If I golfed, I'd be all about going out golfing with you and Vaughn, Bob.  I wanna golf, but it's a hobby I can't afford. :(  And I ain't gonna be the one dragging you guy's game down.  You wanna show me how to play sometime at a driving range though, and I'm there!  I'd love to try.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on July 27, 2005, 12:19 AM
It's just somethign I look at as relaxing I would think...  It wouldn't hurt my networking abilities either...  :)

I'll chitchat with ya some at the show about it Bob...  Can't wait for Saturday to get here...  I'm anxious for just a get-together.

If anyone's in PIttsburgh this weekend (hey, ya never know right?) hit up some of us at the show...  It's always a good time to get together.  Out-of-towners are very welcome, of course!
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on July 27, 2005, 10:02 PM
I think one or two of the newer PA Star Wars Collecting Society members will be there too, should be thier first go-round at a toyshow with us.

Hope they are up for some brews...and I hope they have the raspberry brew this time around.  ;^)

See you there!  Vaughn is staying, so if you want to head back to the house on your way home for a few drinks, feel free!  Unfortunately I won't have my vintage prototype Skiff in time.





Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on July 27, 2005, 10:12 PM
I'm likely going to the gf's afterwards, but your place is on the way...  sorta.  Beers it be then.

I'm hoping for some good brews at John Harvard's too...  Good to see new people as well.  I just hope the show's good since this is the first Summer show in a long time...  And it's been known to be dead at times.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on July 31, 2005, 08:41 PM
Fun time as always, just a few pics up on:

www.pswcs.com/events/20050730.html

501st wer in attendance, not as much vintage as usual, I think much of the vintage has been picked over through the years.  Now a lot of more "affordable" stuff has been gone.  More high end or pricey stuff.  Vintage boxed Skiff in great condition for about $450.

I grabbed:
*SDCC Yoda .45 scale saber and the 3 latest star tours figs from a fellow PSWCS'er. 
* A Saga Padme $5
* A tri-0logo Nikto card is unpunched and in great shape, bubble slightly "pushed in" at 2 corners - $15
* OTC Luke Bespin w/star case $12 (yes I bit the bullet)
* Luke Hoth and Slave Leia fig/cup sets $10ea.

That's about it.  Nothing real spectacular this time around.  Nice to hang with Jesse as always, drinks/food after was fun, hung out with some guys into the eve. and golfed Sun AM as well.  Great weekend.

POTJ Duros was the fig most seemed to recieve as the free figure for attending.
* New Unleashed was about $25+, older Unleashed were all over the board, Yoda was about $90.
* New basic figs were about $10+ for the most part, I think charred Anakin was a bit higher.
* I choked when one vendor wanted $35 for the OTC Vader, and $35 for the Luke Bespin.
* New clone 3 packs were about $25+ (I think I saw a set for about $20
* I noticed some 12" (common) prices seemdd to jump, they used to have a bunch for about $12+ now seemed common 12" were about $20+.  Saga 12" Padme $50, Anakin $40 *GASP*
* Not as much modern stuff as usually is being scalped in the area.
* SDCC Leia figs were about $25+
* one vendor had ROTS, Batman, War of the World bootlegs all about $10ea.
* of note, BK toys varied in price, but some vendors had the BK toys for about $2-$3ea. some like the Maul were $5, Fett was $7, Vader $10.  A few full sets were floating around, but again not as plentiful as I expected.

I think it's more of a good sign that Hasbro and other vendors maybe hadn't flooded the market this go-round like the last two movies ?  I don;t think it's a sign of demand slowing or anything, becasue I've seen more SW collectors, and more SW talk than ever at the show.

About the best recap I can give, should have written some prices down.





Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on August 1, 2005, 01:27 AM
The show sorta bit...  It wasn't a wash, just saw a lotta disappointing things throughout the day.

First, I kicked the day off with 2 Hotwheels nimrods up my ass at Target waiting for the store to open before I popped over to the Toy Show.  I can't say I've ever had to deal with guys like this, even in our hobby, but what a couple of douchebags!  I felt like backhanding the one for being RIGHT behind me. 

The second I pulled into the lot and got out of my car to go in the store (I thought it was open), I see these maroons JUMP out of their cars and practically run to the store's door.  I was closer, so I stood there waiting on them to open it up so I could just run in and leave, but man they acted like they were 10 years old wanting to push past me.

There were only the three of us there!  How dumb is that?

Anyway...  Oh yeah, the show.

I got random junk bits and pieces.  Vintage was sporting some ok boxed stuff I saw...  Carded stuff I'm always diappointed in though as it's always damaged in one way or another.  Boxed I'm more relaxed with though so there's stuff I considered picking up.

What was really disappointing was the modern and what people wanted for basically junk.  Episode One figures for $6 or $7 that were $1.99 clearance at one point.  Lame.

I basically got none of the E1 army builders I wanted because people just wanted outrageous money for stuff. 

Second disappointing thing I witnesses was where basically every new figure in the area went if you didn't get to the stores in time.  TONS of new modern stuff.  One guy had a box about half the size of the folding tables FILLED with modern figures that were just released.  AT-RT Drivers, Obi Pilots, Tarkin, Ask Aak, Mena Tills, Zett, etc., etc... 

And Clones.  Guys with SA Clones for $15 and $20...  Target Clones for $35 and $40...  Clone paint variants (Green Commander, etc.) for $25 or more...

I just hate those ********, plain and simple.  I have nothing but snide remarks for them when they try making their deal with me while I look at their stuff.  One guy said, "I'll sell you that for $20" (about a Green Commander), then went on his schtick about it being an exclusive and limited edition item.

I looked at him, laughed, told him he was wrong and that I'd pick it up for $6 when I see it at the stores, and simply walked away.  I have such an urge to bitchslap some of those guys though, seriously.

I love seeing the old GIJoes and stuff though...  I like checking out vintage, though I didn't pick anything up this time, and I like getting deals on older modern stuff or loose stuff.  I picked up a couple loose ROTS figures for as low as $2 each, and I nabbed a bunch of droid customs fodder in a "3 for 10" table.

Got some Army of Darkness fig sets for 3 for $10 also, and wish I'd bought at least 3 more now.  :(

Got my Vader w/Med Table (also selling for $30+ at the show) from Dave for $10, and a bust-up of Leia I'd been wanting.  Nabbed the 3 plush BK things from Todd that he's been holding for me forever...

Drank some good beer, had a nice cup of soup, and that was the day...  Got some sun on the way home with the top down, and the gf made me shishkabobs!

Not a bad day, other than the scalpers/dealers leaving a sour taste in my mouth.  Seemed like more than ever.  Riding the ROTS wave I guess.

Never saw Eddie Munster or the Soup Nazi...  Saw the Batmobile though.  Yippy ****.

Oh!  I did get a couple ornaments (Destroyer/TantiveIV, and a nice see-through one of the ANH Poster) for cheap.  Love that poster too, that's a sweet little item.

Fun fun fun!
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: DSJ™ on August 1, 2005, 01:42 AM
(http://www.pswcs.com/graphics/meetings/year05/20050730-01.JPG)

Hey, I have a shirt just like that Jesse.   (http://www.cheesebuerger.de/images/smilie/froehlich/d025.gif)
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on August 1, 2005, 01:54 AM
What, a PSWCS Shirt?  *whistles innocently*  Yeah, that's just me in my PSWCS Shirt.  *whistles innocently*
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on August 2, 2005, 01:06 AM
Sounds like it was fun down that way... 

Apparantly some guy bit off some guy's ear at a bar called Carnivore's down there too (I've never even heard of that bar though).  I thought that was funny.  Glad it wasn't you Vaught or Tronz doing that.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on August 2, 2005, 09:32 AM
Hehe, I've been there, kind of a step down from the Tavern.  A little shadier place. 

Thier food isn't all THAT great, and they don't give large portions, so maybe the guy was just really really hungry.  :P
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Blue_Harvester on August 2, 2005, 03:06 PM
...
Got my Vader w/Med Table (also selling for $30+ at the show) from Dave for $10, and a bust-up of Leia I'd been wanting. 
...
Fun fun fun!

hey JJ (j2),  Glad to help you out wit dat Leia Bust-up, but I dont think
you got that Vader-on-table from me, did ya?  Whoever you got it from deserves
the props...

 And we were talking about the EU-only ROTS model kits... did you want in on
that deal?  Which ones? and for what (max) price points.  My friend in Paris
can get us all we want, but we gots to add on the kinda pricey shipping costs.

 Lemme know.

-Dave
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on August 2, 2005, 09:50 PM
You're right Dave, I got the Vader w/Table from Scott actually...  I barely got to talk to him at the show and remembered talking to you and Todd about stuff, just got confused.  Lots going on around me + beer = confusion.

I'm definitely interested, but I gotta figure out what they even have.  You were showing us something too, I forget what, that was from Paris's convention?  It was neat though, I remember that.  Very unique.

I'll PM you at the Pittsburgh site about it Dave...  Thanks for the reminder!
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on November 19, 2005, 02:17 AM
Welp, as per the front page...

(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/10-05/Pittsburgh.jpg)

The Pittsburgh Toy & Collectibles Show (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) returns to the Pittsburgh Expo Mart.  Located in the Monroeville suburb of Pittsburgh, the Expo Mart is situated right in front of the mall Dawn of the Dead was filmed in.

The show's a haven for good finds.  I got my double telescoping Luke there one year so there's some nice scores to be had.  Always good to meet up with the PSWCS members as well.

And speaking of...  The Pennsylvania Star Wars Collector's Society (http://www.pswcs.com) will be holding their annual toy drive (in conunction with the 501st Stormtrooper Legion) with a booth at the show.  They'll be accepting donations or you can contact Bill Cable at the PSWCS site to make a donation by mail.

Between Greg Brady, Horshack from Welcome Back Kotter, and the glorious me being there, how can you NOT go to this?  If you're absent...  You betta have a note!  haha, get it?  Like Horshack...  Hah!
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: MetalJedi on November 19, 2005, 01:32 PM
Welp, as per the front page...

(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/10-05/Pittsburgh.jpg)

Hey, I can see Fiddler's Green from here.  ;D
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on November 28, 2005, 09:35 AM
Welp, as per the front page...

(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/10-05/Pittsburgh.jpg)

The Pittsburgh Toy & Collectibles Show (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) returns to the Pittsburgh Expo Mart.  Located in the Monroeville suburb of Pittsburgh, the Expo Mart is situated right in front of the mall Dawn of the Dead was filmed in.

The show's a haven for good finds.  I got my double telescoping Luke there one year so there's some nice scores to be had.  Always good to meet up with the PSWCS members as well.

And speaking of...  The Pennsylvania Star Wars Collector's Society (http://www.pswcs.com) will be holding their annual toy drive (in conunction with the 501st Stormtrooper Legion) with a booth at the show.  They'll be accepting donations or you can contact Bill Cable at the PSWCS site to make a donation by mail.

Between Greg Brady, Horshack from Welcome Back Kotter, and the glorious me being there, how can you NOT go to this?  If you're absent...  You betta have a note!  haha, get it?  Like Horshack...  Hah!

Hah, I can't wait to go to this. I  came last year looking for Halo stuff and this show really got me started on SW.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on December 4, 2005, 08:02 PM
It was okay this year. I found an Ani Evolutions and a Gree, wanted to find a Gunship, couldn't find one but then saw this dad with 2 two little kids that had two. Didn't bother me because the kids were really excited. All in all, pretty good.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on December 5, 2005, 01:56 AM
Dude, you should've said something so we could have met up.  Me and some of the PSWCS guys went to John Harvard's afterwards for their beer/lunch.  Good times.

I bought a bunch of loose stuff for a fair price.  Retail actually so that's all that makes me happy.  I got 2 ROTS Royal Guards (1 red, 1 blue), a VOTC stormtroooper MOC, a Red EE Clone, a Blue EE Clone (He had a green one for $8 or I'd have got it too), an Imp. Officer POTJ, an TRU Imp pack Stormtrooper....  The guy tried cheating me though on price as I asked him to "do a deal for me on price" since I bought so much and his idea of a "deal" was basically selling me stuff for a couple bucks OVER what the stickers added up to.  I asked him if he could do better and finally I got what they basically added up to (slightly less).   ::)  What a total dick though.

And on top of that I heard, at least twice, dealers pulling the age old scam of "I thought you gave me a $10?" when giving out change.  THis has happened to me twice at the shows but not in the same day.  So either there's a lotta douchebags who failed Math at this show running dealer tables or this is jsut a pretty common scheme by guys who don't want to look for gainful employment.  I'm wagering it's more the latter.

I didn't find a LOT at the show.  It was disappointing...  Nirvana, you really should have hooked up with the local guys because someone very well may have a Gunship or Ani Evolutions available for you for cost.  The local group is really tight knit and helpful.

So that was about it for me...  I got Vintage hand-crank "Movie Viewer" lot too.  It was pretty sweet and for $16 it was cheap to get what I think is an almost complete set.

Vintage was a bit more sparse and modern was OUTRAGEOUSLY priced at the show.  As predicted I saw exactly why finding a Shocktrooper, "final 12" figure, or Evolutions set is a real bitch too.  Table upon table had modern stuff out the whazzoo, and I saw average prices of basic figures was around $15 - $30.  Evolutions were as much as $50.

Fun to look around the show and hang out.  Finding deals was tough this month though.  I don't pay over retail-ish price so I just had a rough time finding things I could justify buying.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on December 5, 2005, 03:10 PM
I bought my Evo at a reasonable price, 25 bucks. I was only there on Sunday because I had to stay after church for something and by the time I got there alot was picked over. I know, I was suprised by how high the price was on RotS basic. 10 dollars for a Royal Guard? No thanks. I suddenly knew where the Tarkin wave and the final 12 had gone to. I remember seeing this one fig- a Deluxe Rots Emporor for 28 DOLLARS. Just because he had two left hands. Who the f cares? I wasn't impressed by this year's, IMO last year was better.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on December 6, 2005, 12:14 AM
It's bigger than it had been, I give it that, because I've been at the show when half that room was filled and those were rough years, but yeah it wasn't very hoppin' with deals.

I look for customs fodder and junk...  Vintage I've sorta bowed out of till prices stabilize, but I almost did bite on a $75 Amanaman actually.  Modern's just a sham there unless you're buying stuff that's become things that dealers were stuck with.  They're like riding some weird high on SW toys though with the ROTS film year.  I think in a year we'll see things back to normal where guys have bins of ROTS figures (and older stuff) for like $3 to $5 a figure.  THEN I'm willing to buy. :)  Not before I try to weasel them down some though, that's my style!  haha!  I love it!
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 7, 2005, 02:10 AM
Heh, after all the PSWCS guys got done exchanging exclusives (we all help each other out, and on items like Wedge, Holiday Vader, trooper, etc. we all go in on bulk deals to save on S&H (works out to be like $15 and change vs. $22 per fig.)

so, I ran up a hefty exclusives tab, so I went on a mission for weird stuff like:

(2) vintage X-wing guns-got em!
(1) vintage Battle Damage TIE wing connector piece (got it)
(1) vintage Hoth Rebel trooper micro to match my 4up (got it)

Was looking for a 12" Princess Leia commemorative for a girl to open (box could have been damaged) but didn;t find one, just bought one last night off EBay.

Was a great time hanging out.  Always fun to see jesse and all the others, met a few new guys this time as well.  John Harvards was fun as always!  :^)

I'll post a few pics!
 
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 7, 2005, 11:24 AM
Here's a recap of the show toywise.  First off there was a ton of new modern stuff, and as high priced as it was, by the end of the day...IT WAS ALL SELLING! It was insane.  Good to see that the hobby is as strong as ever, but I just hate seeing all the rediculously high scalped prices. Here's what I was seeing:

Unleashed Battle Packs $20  (everyone hates em, I kinda think they'll do well)
B.B. Vader Unleashed $20-$40
Silver Fett $40
Silver Clone $20
Star Tours $25
Target Utapau trooper $25
Covert ops trooper (shopsw) $40
Holo Leia $40
New waves ROTS $10ea.
CIII Vader $40
Jedi Mickey/Yoda Disney $40 selling well at $40 I might add
Animated Clones $15ish Yoda $20
Target Clone $30
BK Vaders $5-$10 seemed to sell at the $5 price, sit at the $10
OTC common $7-$12 (very hot line) Sandtroopers for $40, ST's and Vaders $25ish
Toyfare Vader only one $200
Target Vader saw one go immediately for $50+ many sold for $60+

Vintage was scarcer than usual.  Talking to the guys, all loose vintage seemed to be selling like hotcakes!  They said it seemed younger or newer collectors that were starting to dabble in vintage for the first time seemed to be testing the waters with items like $10 loose figs vs. say $300 carded.  (this is also a good sign to see people getting into vintage)  I have a feeling it's only a matter of time before they make the jump fully.

12" common also seemed to jump, as $20 seemed to be the base for many modern, so that seemed to jump back up to what you'd normally pay retail for them.  (only a few yrs. back they were going low for about $10-$15.  Some insanely high prices on the more exclusive 12"ers. (speeders, 100th Luke, KB 3 and 4 packs, 2 packs, Taun-tauns, etc. etc.)

Vehicles still remain to be very hot.  Falcons, gunships, etc. were all gone first hour of the show.

I was dissapointed in that a majority of the new stuff was just hasbro stuff.  (I can understand vendors wanting to buy, clean the shelves and make a quick buck on $5 Hasbro figs, makes sense in that respect) I thought I would see a bunch of the miniatures, Attacktix, busts, bust-ups, and some MR, Code 3, Koto, Attackus, but saw virtually NONE.  No high end stuff whatsoever.

Do keep in mind at the show, the prices are usually slightly higher than the norm, vs. EBay you don't have to pay s&H, can usually wheel and deal for deals, you know you won;t get taken or worry about not getting what you paid for, and you actually can hold and see what you are getting, no surprises.



Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Famine on December 29, 2005, 12:34 AM
I'm going to clear the 11th of March from my Calander, and drive to Pgh so I can come to the show.

Who else is going to be there?

Kevin
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on December 29, 2005, 02:44 AM
9 chances out of 10, me.

And most of the other locals make the show...  Bobafett14 for instance, etc...  Lots of guys from the PSWCS for lack of a detailed list.  Hell Bill Cable's been known to make an appearance though I haven't seen him for a little while.

It's always a good time, let me know if you're coming into town Kevin.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on February 21, 2006, 11:58 PM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/10-05/Pittsburgh.jpg)
Another show on the horizon...  It's become a tri-annual thing around here if I'm not mistaken with a March show, a show in summer-ish time I think?, and of course the first weekend in December show that has become the "big one" in the area.

http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/

There ya go for all the information...  The upcoming show is March 11th and 12th at the Pittsburgh Expo Mart.  The Expo Mart is in the Monroeville suburb of Pittsburgh, which is easily accessable off the Parkway East from downtown Pittsburgh and also easily accessed by the Pennsylvania Turnpike, I-76.  It's very easy to get to, traffic is light...

This is also home of the upcoming Pittsburgh Comic-Con as well, due in April if I'm not mistaken (lost my paper, it's here somewhere).

If you can make either show I'll be at both on their respective Saturday's.  The PSWCS West group, and the 501st Stormtrooper Legion are always in attendance as well.  This March Toy SHow I hear is gonna have Czechov from Star Trek!  They've moved up quite a bit from Eddie Munster, the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld, Horshack from Welcome Back Kotter, and Greg Brady...  :)

Good stuff though, always a great show to browse and enjoy the sights....   Unfortunately I've found that conventions have certain smells you don't wanna enjoy but that's all cons in my experience.  :P

If you can make a weekend of it, Pittsburgh's a beautiful city to visit...  Good dining, nightlife, shopping...  You'll have a good time.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on March 10, 2006, 01:44 AM
Pittsburgh Toy Show Saturday...  Can't wait.

Show's good if you are within the range of Western PA.  You should come check it out.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on March 10, 2006, 08:36 AM
I'm going on Sunday with my friend Nick, aka Darth Nuch. I liked it back in December, just hope that I'll be able to find some moderately priced SAGA2 stuff.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on March 10, 2006, 07:04 PM
I wouldn't count on that.  You should ask around here to see what you can get for your Saga needs and beyond that I'd wait it out...

Feeding the scalpers at the show only encourages them though.

I go to just take advantage of them by getting stuff for less than retail that they can't unload...  Or vintage stuff I want and odds/ends on the cheap, but otherwise I go with the mindset that I'm not paying one cent over retail for this crap to one of the sleeze running a booth that will undoubtebly want in the $30 range for a Scorch or Utapau Clone.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on March 11, 2006, 08:39 AM
I've been there back in December, and I refuse to pay 13 + dollars for a fig. I think it all depends on the dealer. I remeber I snagged a Tarkin and Meena Tills for only 6, the price really varies for table to table.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on March 12, 2006, 06:23 PM
Well, just got back from the show. It was really great, and I think it was the best show yet. All in all, I spent 30 bucks, and got this:
2 Loose RotS SA clones
1 Carded ATTTE Gunner
1 Carded VOTC Luke Skywalker

All in all, not a bad haul. :)
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on March 13, 2006, 01:01 AM
I actually skipped the Saturday show because I wasn't feeling up to snuff, but Sunday I caved early in the morning and tore out there...  Ran into my buddy Tronzo from the PSWCS and local Pittsburgh Collecting group (though Tronz lives out in State College area).

Took my gf and her youngest to the show.  He got pictures with Jango and Darth Vader of the 501st Garrison Carida who always attend the show.  It was nice of them to do that, and they were really nice to him. 

I have to say that going on Sunday is a whole other experience to going on Saturday.  The sellers are often "abandoning ship" so to speak. :)  I love it.

Saturday I usually do the early buyer event to scoop up any of the particualrly tasty bits before someone pounces on them, but on Sunday it's all about the deals...  Saturday is about deals too but Sunday is where your money gets its mileage.

I got a plethora of random items for cheap...

I nabbed the Vintage Star Wars Slide Projector set (complete) for a mere $10 and it works.

I got a Small Head Han Solo for $10 that is the mintest specimen I've ever seen in my life off the card.  Simply flawless in every way, and while that wans't a figure I was lookign to upgrade in my loose vintage collection, I honestly couldn't pass it up.

I got the R4 and WEG-1618 from Star Tours for a mere $10, which is an outstanding price on ST figures.

I got 3 ASP-7 droids for dioramas and such for about $2 each, as well as random other modern extras like Fode & Beed, FX-7, Clone Pilot, ROTS Mas Ameda...  My gf's son got some figures on the cheap too, though he makes me proud when he says that Jango sucks becuase he "can't move".

I wholeheartedly agree with that assessment of every Jango figure. :)

I got the Episode 1 Jabba w/Announcer set for *drum roll* $12...  I got 3 Army of Darkness 2-packs for a mere $5 spot.

I found out Billy Dee Williams will be at the next show which actually has my attention for once.  I'll get a Lando autograph no doubt.

Saw lots of other good deals but passed...

By the end of the day I spent $80 at the show, plus I got 2 more Sun Fac figures at Target before teh show which rocked since I love Sun Fac (my new Geonosian Army Builder).

I think my prize is the Film Projector, that's a really nice piece.  I never had it so it's somethign I wanted that was odd...  The other stuff was great fodder, diorama bits, etc...  The Jabba I got because he was hard to find in my area and I still didn't have him so that was a steal at less than retail.

I saw few (to really hardly any) Scorch and Utapau Clones.  2 Tables had them,a nd they're the two "bigtime" scalpers in Pittsburgh that are notorious for scouring the area.  One had numerous of both, the other guy seemed like he maybe had one of each...  Doesn't account for Ebay scalpers, but of the douchesacks that set up tables there were only 2 I noticed with them so that was pleasant anyway.

If I'd had more $ I saw lots of E1 army builders I wanted but had to pass on.  Maybe next show in July.  I may do 2 days in a row for that show just to see what I can get Sunday that I couldnt' get cheaper on Saturday. :)

Good show, and if they're really gonna get guys like Billy Dee Williams, I wish the Toy Show and COmic Con would join forces on some level...  I'm shocked the Toy Show got Williams though and Comic Con didn't.  CC is more known for autographs, and still is really, but the Toy Show scored a winner with Mr. Colt .45 himself.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on March 13, 2006, 03:33 PM
I've never gone on the Saturday, but you're right, on Sundays I find that they've marked things down (got VOTC Luke for 7 bucks instead of 12) and they lower prices easier (2 SAs for 5 each instead of 7). I like the show even more every time I go. I agree with you on Scorch and Utapau- I didn't see any, but all SAGA2 was horribly overpriced- I have an abundance of Saga stuff but they were selling a Hoth Vader for 15.
Title: Pittsburgh Toy Show- July 29-30
Post by: Nirvana on July 2, 2006, 10:20 AM
Well, I figured I'd bump this up to let everyone know that the Toy Show is coming up at the end of the month. Some highlights:

Billy Dee Williams (Mr. Lando himself!) will be available for autographs on Saturday only I believe...I remember eading on their site about a week ago that the first 150 to buy an autograph will recieve a free SW action figure...it's not there anymore, so I think they scrapped it.

Richard Kiel- "Jaws" from James Bond, also the "Guns don't kill people, I kill people" guy from Happy Gilmore

Vanessa Branch- some girl from PotC, TV Shows, and the Orbit Lady

Those sound like some interesting celebs, and I might actually try to go out on Saturday instead of Sunday!
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Darth_Deastron on July 21, 2006, 05:04 AM
I'm getting Lando's auto!!! ;D
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on July 21, 2006, 09:18 PM
Are you going Deastron?  ???
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on July 22, 2006, 04:32 PM
I think he is, as well as I. Hopefully I'll be able to go Saturday. Last year, my friend came along for it, but on Sunday there's never really any good items...
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on July 28, 2006, 07:53 PM
Just another bump for the show that's tomorrow...I'll likely be going tomorrow, but if I don't, I'll have to miss the show because of my going out of town Sunday. Things that I hope to score:

Any removable helmet clones (faces always come in handy for customs)
Any Stormtroopers
VOTC Fett

 
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on July 31, 2006, 07:44 PM
So I hit the toy show up this weekend...  Here's my little recapping of it.

-Showed up around 9 and I have to say it was really hot in the center...  From what I was told the morons that run the Expo Mart wouldn't turn the AC on till 8:00 which is well after people had lined up, and just when they started to let folks in for the early buyer event...  I got there at 9:00 and felt it was still toasty in there and that's just BS.  I hope the event people got pissed off enough to say something.

-Right off the bat I ran into my buddy Bill from the local Pittsburgh collecting group (and PSWCS), and we wandered around the rows together as he'd already been through it once.  It was cool to have a buddy to wander around with, plus he sees things I always would miss.

-Immediately I saw Endor Wave, HFG, Sandtroopers, Georgetrooper, and other odds and ends from this year with prices as over-inflated as the egos I see from some of the more condescending people in this hobby in general...  It was staggering.  George Trooper was commanding nothing short of $50, which if it was all you wanted it's what you'd pay, but yowza that's a lot for one easily obtainable figure.

-HFG packs were well over the $50 mark as well...  Disappointing (at that time) because I had yet to see one and needed one for myself but also my gf's son for his birthday...  This is why I hate prick scalpers irregardless of how useless it is to bemoan those morons.  When you spend $25 on a kid for his birthday and these dickless morons buy it all up and charge $50, you're really in a tight spot within this hobby.

-I noticed that stuff from 6, 7, 8 years ago or more was often times marked up...  Anyone remember ASP-7?  I do, he's one of my favorite POTF2 figures probably and I buy extras routinely...  He went from not being able to be given away for $2 a piece at the show to a whopping $8 asking price simply because Star Wars had a good year last year...  Of course, he wasn't selling, but man did I mention how I hate the guys selling stuff at the show sometimes?  :)

-Deals could be had though!  Fear not...  I made my first purchase in the 2nd aisle when I noticed there was an $18 Evolutions Clonetrooper (Yellow) set sitting there...  The guy I bought it off of is someone I've dealt with before and who has attempted to rip me off in the past, so I looked the set over closely.  $18's well under retail for me though and it was good so I grabbed it happily.  "Our first catch of the day".

-Wandering around I ran into 2 people with overpowering body odor...  It happens every time at this show.

-Saw a stand selling stuff at overinflated prices but the guy did have some Saga for $5.  Namely AT-AT Drivers and Sun Fac's, which I bought one of each of.  I had to watch my penny's though.

-At the last aisle I saw 2 of the coolest things ever and got one of them...  One guy had a booth and had original Star Wars and Empire Strikes Back wall paper.  The SW paper was used but removed and in good enough shape to be re-used.  The ESB Paper was still on its roll.  The guy wanted $100 for each which probably in the grand scheme wasn't horrible and he would've negotiated I think...  The other thing I couldn't pass up though.  Another table had a sealed box of Puffs Tissues from 1980.  The box is all decorated in Ralph McQuarrie Art of Luke/Vader's duel on Bespin.  It's freaking great and was $12...  It's too weird not to have, so I bought it and now it's one of my proud weird ass things in my collection.  I love it because it's something that strikes me as uncanny to still be in good shape/sealed and it's also covered in McQuarrie Art which I am a huge fan of.

-The autograph people on hand were:  The Orbitz gum chick (the one that goes "fabulous!" with the nice white teeth).  She was a nice lady but nobody was looking for her autograph it seemed.  Then there was Jaws from the James Bond films...  I felt bad for him because he is obviously in pain from his size and things, and rides a scooter around.  He was the nicest guy in the building though, and would have conversation even if you weren't buying an autograph.  The guy seemed great, honestly so that was really cool I thought.

Then separate of them, and arriving later in the morning, Billy Dee Williams was there in the back of the convention center...  The 501st guys on-hand gave you a ticket to wait in line actually, and they'd call like ticket #1 to 50 to go wait in line, then 50 to 100, 100 to 150, etc., etc....  The line to see Billy Dee was slow but it steadily moved.

I saw a number of people seemingly force him to shake their hand, or put their arm around him or whatnot...  I found that to be a little overbearing towards him.  I also noticed that they were having you fill out a piece of paper of what you'd like him to write on your autograph for you, and I watched as people practically wrote out paragraphs for him.  I thought that too was ignorant irregardless of what you were paying. 

I just had him sign it to me since I figured this is the only chance for me to nab Williams' autograph.  I told him it was nice to meet him and he looked at me shocked as if I was the only one to be cordial to him all day and said it was nice to meet me as well and even referred to me by name...  That shocked me equally and I really felt he was a nice guy, but that people sort of thought they could treat him like an exhibit instead of a human and it disgruntled him a bit.  I mean I saw guys with 40's of Colt .45 in brown bags that they were going to have him autograph and I don't think that's a particularly good way to be friendly with the guy.

Anyway, he seemed cool to me and while the autograph was expensive ($30, yikes), I don't buy many auto's so this was just one of the few I'd wanted.  I got it and moved along.

So the show overall...  I didn't buy much at this show.  It was as big as ever but I found there to be too many scheisters this time.  People have an exagerrated sense of what Star Wars is worth right now and so I noticed a lot of overpriced old crap, some even with the clearance tags still on it, and so I really didn't look hard for the usual bargains like $2 loose figures and things.  They had some stuff here and there but a lot of it was now overpriced so I bailed with minor buying.

Ironically though on the way home I hit some stores and found Hunt for Grievous finally for myself and my gf's son.  Got it out of the way but at a hefty cost.  Buy now though rather than regret it later.

I of course spent time with the local collectors at John Harvard's Brew House afterwards.  Had some beer and a little soup before the hot ride home.  Always good to see my friends like Bill, Bob (And his lady friend), Dave, Mike, MikeE, Jason, Tronzo and the gang... 

It'd be great if the show got big enough to, at some point, open both wings of the Expo Mart up...  more autographs and things.  To be perfectly honest I think Comic-Con and the Pittsburgh Toy Show need to unite because separated I have pretty much ruled out going to the Comic-Con at this stage of the game (You pay and arm and a leg just to get in, and then its Star Warsy stuff is highly limited compared to past years).  If it were a true Toy Show attached to it like other Comic-Cons have become though I'd likely be more inclined to go...

Either way though that's neither here nor there.

Anyway I think the show was good...  Oh, and there was another thing.  The one bigtime vintage collector (he's part of the OSWCC though I don't know him well myself) had a Vintage carded Obi-Wan Double Telescoping Lightsaber figure on-hand at the show.  There was also a seller with what he said was an original Rocket Firing L-Slot Fett Proto...  The Fett I had a hard time verifying its authenticity but I'm not Rocket Fett expert either as it's something I just haven't ever even had on my radar.

The DT Ben I can definitely say is a pristine authentic example and it's gorgeous.  If you're a vinty guy it's a thing to behold looking at that piece.  I heard rumor that it was offered to be bought at the show as well, for $25k...  Not sure if that panned out or not.  The guy with it was to have a Vader too but I guess he didn't bring it?  Too bad, it would've been cool seeing perhaps all 3 double telescoping saber figures together at one time as I believe he has a Luke too carded.

Cool stuff for sure.  I just hope modern prices go back in the toilet soon so I can go back to buying random crap figures for cheap like usual.  I always loved my haul of a bag full of figures for dioramas and stuff that I paid like $50 total for, haha.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: JesseVader08 on August 4, 2006, 04:11 AM
Good writeup Jesse - it sounds like it has grown into a good show.

It was particularly interesting to read about your experience with Billy Dee Williams - he seems to be a great guy, too bad he appeared to be receiving a less than great treatment from the fans.  I plan on someday getting his autograph - quite often I wish I had taken the time to get it at C3.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on August 5, 2006, 09:34 AM
I went to the show at around 12 on last Saturday, and I was a tad disappointed. I was a little low on cash to spend there, but I did manage to get:

2 New DS Gunners (they were 10 bucks, and I figured I would probably never find 'em in stores anyways :))
RotS Tarkin (needed an Imp. oficer for a custom)- 8 bucks.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on November 9, 2006, 02:57 PM
I figured I might as well bump this back up to the top. It's in less than a month.

Great show, this time around I'll hope to snag one or two VOTC Fetts (probably only one, considering the best price I found last year was for 15 ::))...maybe a couple clones, and a few loose figs I want.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on November 22, 2006, 05:27 PM
The show is but a week away here...  more or less.  I'm planning on going but not planning on buying a lot because of just the holidays and finances.  I'm still gonna go to the early buyer event I think despite the additional cost to get in... 

Verne Troyer as the top guest?  Meh...  Midgets are cool and all but I'm just not interested in him.  Too bad no SW guests made the list this month.

The show's new name as "Steel City Con" is interesting...  I think they really are trying to become something much larger and more convention-like than just a toy show, which is good to me...  It'd be nice to see the Toy Show/Con take up both sides of the Expo Mart in the future actually.

I'm all about this show, I just hope I don't see anything real big that I want...  :(
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on December 4, 2006, 06:06 AM
Another show come and gone...  This was a good one.  Lots of stuff both vintage and modern.  I found a contact for some asian stuff I think I can get imported from for a lesser charge (yippee!), and definitely scored some deals on Saturday!

I got to the show a little after 9:00 a.m. or so.  Just in time to get in for the early buyer event for $10 and run around the show before the general admission crowd got in and tore up the dealer tables...  Glad I did because I scored stuff early it seemed.

I found various stuff I was interested in in the first couple rows...  A handful of modern cheap stuff for 3 for $10 and the like...  I passed a guy selling the Radio Dramas on CD (bootlegs) for $5 a set, which was kind of enticing but I passed.

I came upon a guy selling Vintage, he's a guy I've gotten to know and brought double telescoping Ben and Vader to the last show for displaying...  Not many people even knew what they werelooking at in his glass case but it was well worth checking out for me (too bad I didn't have my camera!).  He's become a friend sort of and we recognize each other now...  He had VTSC figures listed on his table for $5, and low and behold there were Tuskens amongst them (no scouts).  I asked if he had anymore, and he obliged with 3 still in the clamshell, and I threw in a $4 mini-rig...  I told him I'd take it all for $20 if he tossed in another Tusken out of its clamshell.  4 SA Tuskens and an MLC-3 that just needs a good cleaning...  Not bad for this army builder/customizer!

One guy had a rockin' ceramic Jabba bank I wanted but $40 was a bit out of my price range on a single item so I held off.  Wish I had brough a little more and I feel sure I could've gotten it for $30.  :(

Another guy was seling his vintage figures (loose), but my god were they immaculate.  Just perfect samples of loose vintage...  I wanted to fill some holes and upgrades but again $$$.  I could've gotten all the POTF Ewoks for $20 each I'm sure, and they were perfect.  Not a repro weapon or cape in sight either, just perfect stuff...  No paint chips...  Beautiful, and really depressed me I couldn't pick anything up.

Another guy had some great boxed vintage for decent prices.  His Dewback and Landspeeder both were catching my eye but again I walked away.  It was killing me.

I nabbed a Bossk Bust-Up at the first table in the hall....  Something for my Bossk collection I figured.

The Evolutions were my big score worth noting though...  Those were a bitch to find in Pittsburgh so getting them at the show for less than retail was great.  After the show I owed for my Kir/Carnor 2-pack, a case of Evolutions, a TRU Obi Fighter, and some other stuff...

Kir/Carnor pack rocks all, it's really a quality piece.  I got the other stuff and headed off to hang out with the members of the PSWCS/Pittsburgh Collecting Society at a microbrew place called John Harvards...  Good times there having Red Raspberry Beer.  Mmmmmmmm

The show's Toy Drive looked like it was going well.  I didn't have anything to do with it personally, but the toy box was flowin' good it seemed.  I snapped some photos of the "stars" at the show...  All I gotta say is that the blonde chick from Caddy Shack (The Judge's granddaughter) is really still quite hot...  and looks to have gained in the right spots.  Wowza....

Oh and Face from the A-Team looks old...  I couldn't see Mini-Me, and it seemed as though he was late or something. 

I really hope this show gets more SW Stars in the future...  I'm game for those autographs at least.  I just wish they were as inexpensive as the wrestler's autographs were...  BS that the guy that said some line for a second in ESB wants $20 for his autograph, haha.

Anyway, good show...  Good meeting with friends.  I'm happy as a clam and can't wait till the next show already.  Well yes I can, I need to save up for it. ;)
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Nirvana on December 4, 2006, 08:37 PM
Well, unfortuneately I was not able to attend the show and it sounds like you had a good time Jesse. I hope the April (right?) show will be better, we'll see the rest of TSC and all the 30AC stuff that's hit so far.

Nice-writeup as well. Is the early buyer event worth it? I usually just go on Sunday but I'm thinking about going Saturday next time.
Title: Re: Pgh toy show
Post by: Jesse James on December 5, 2006, 02:15 AM
It depends on your POV...  $10 isn't cheap but you get in early, and thus get out early, which is worth it to me...  But you also catch deals you otherwise wouldn't see because they'd get scooped up.  Not always, but sometimes you do see something early you won't see later...

$10 isn't cheap though so it's really a personal preference...  I've found Sunday you can find deals you can't get on Saturday because people are panicing to sell stuff to recoup their booth costs if they haven't already.
Title: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 5, 2007, 04:26 AM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/7-06/PittToyShowBanner2.jpg)

Pittsburgh's Toy Show, "Steel City Con" is back in March (24th and 25th) to kick off the 2007 year of shows.  Another one should roll around in July I believe, then in December the last show.

Rumor is Jeremy Bulloch is coming in July too, which I hope he is since that's one auto I don't have yet.  Not that I'm a big autograph guy, but there's a handful I'd like and his is one I'd like on a Fett photo and the Imp. Officer he played in ESB as well.

The show itself is always great though.  Always lots of Star Wars...  Often overpriced modern stuff abounds and you see why you can't find Figure A or Excluisve B, but you also see some impressive modern deals, and lots of vintage stuff usually is hiding throughout the show.  Everything from the weird to the rare...  Last time (December) they had a double telescoping Ben and Vader on display ONLY, but still pretty bitchin' to see those.

Plus I get to hang out with my PSWCS buddies, and the 501st Legion is usually there en masse with troopers willing to snap photos with the kids.  My gf's son gets a kick out of that always.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on March 25, 2007, 08:57 PM
I guess I'll post here on the recap from this weekends (3/23) show.

Grabbed an EV 9D9 fig. the last I needed for the vinatge loose run.  I've held off becasue I wouldn;t buy him online or ebay becasue the one arm is alwyas bad on him, so limited to in person deals, whcih are kinda limited.

Also grabbed a Lady Gornesh carded Ewoks fig for $20.  Card had a hole punch, and a few veins, bubble was dinged but for $20 I thought it was a prety decent deal.  Plus you don;t have to pay S&H which saves a few $.

Also grabbed a DC collecting club chewie pin which I missed on when they sold them a few years abck, and got a few extra cases off a PSWCS bud.  Now my ROTS collection is complete AND lined up in cases.

Snagged a freebie Dark Times Dark Horse poster, and some freebie packs of Evolutions trading cards.

Fun as always at John Harvards for brews and food.  Always fun seeign the local Pittsburg/PA contingency, and hanging out with Jesse for the afternoon.

See you in July!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 27, 2007, 10:15 PM
Good to see you post here Bob, it's been a while...

The Pittsburgh Toy Show was fantastic as always, and if you want a little tidbit on what it's all about you can read my Steel City Con Wrap-Up Feature (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1175041376,27892,) on JediDefender.com's front page.  We've recently become affiliates with the show and that makes me happy to say the least as the con just gets bigger and bigger it seems.

The show's promoter promised more Star Wars too in the future, with a Star Wars film celebrity booked (at least one or two) for every show hopefully.  That's fantastic news to Star Wars fans in the Pittsburgh area as many don't get to the large cons on the West Coast for autographs.  It's a big bonus to living in this area for sure!

As per usual at the show I'm not a fan of paying "scalper" prices so I avoid a lot of modern.  Some great vintage was at the show but I passed.  Just lots of eye candy to look through for me.  I look for upgrades to my loose collection here and there but for now I've bowed out of carded collecting until the modern line is really in the crapper sometime in the distant future. 

I tell ya though, it's hard sometimes at the show not plunking down a chunk of change on a nice carded figure.  Saber's Edge Collectibles was at the show with some nice stuff as always, and the chap who runs it has become somewhat friendly with me over the years now and we chit chat about vintage wares he has.  He had his double telescoping Obi-Wan at the last show.  It'd be neat to see that again I think.

I nabbed some customizing fodder and diorama pieces for the most part this time around...  Got lots of deals and my rule is not to pay a cent over retail so I came away like a bandit as always.  That's the real thing about the Toy SHow I think people don't realize.  Cheap stuff can be had and in good quantity too...  ASP-7's for cheap, I got 2 E1 Battledroids for cheap, another toy line I cleaned up on at $2 a figure set for their parts only, but well worth it.  Of course if you're looking to fill holes and you don't mind paying a little more than retail, the show is good for that too. 

Gunships from everything from $65 to $120 I saw there...  Lots of TAC, but not too much.  It's still too new that even the guys that peruse the stores haven't found it yet I guess.  I did well this month spending what my budget was and even going home a little ahead actually.  I'm really pleased with my stuff from a customizing/scene building point of view too.  I got some really good stuff for that this time around.  On the 3 for $10 table in the back someone was running, I cleaned up and got a very slick Aliens toy I'd wanted for ages but wouldn't pay what they wanted on Ebay.  Now I just need to find more this cheap! ;D

As always the PSWCS members in the Western half of the state get together for drinks after the show at John Harvard's Micro-Brewery.  At this point I think I made my best buy of the day, as our buddy Dave happened to have the ONE thing I couldn't find at the show for the life of me.  I had been sent on a mission to get a Deluxe Durge, something I didn't have an extra of, and NOBODY at teh show had one.  Very odd.  CW stuff in general was rare to see.  Anyway, our buddy Dave happened to have one and I got it for a great price ($7) off him too.  That's the comradery of the local collecting group at work there.

That Durge made a little kid pretty happy, let me tell ya.  So thanks to Dave for that, and thanks to all the guys for the fun afternoon drinking, eating, and laughing it up.  I must say I think our little collecting hoard is among the best.  The Western PA guys are easily some of the funnest people to hang with, drink with...  Outside this hobby they're still great friends to stay in touch with, and that's the real reward from joining the group I think.

I'm already stoked for July's show...  Jeremy Bulloch's likely to be coming to it, who I do not have any autographs of, and it'll be another great day I'm sure.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 30, 2007, 01:52 AM
The new site is up for the July show...  Boba Fett, Ewok, and the guy that posed for Quin Lon Vos are all on the list as autographing.  I'm gonna be in line a while, and that sucks, but I'm anxious to get Bulloch's autograph for the first time. :)

This show keeps getting better for SW fans, so I'm excited about July already!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on April 28, 2007, 02:59 AM
Nice recap Jesse, and yeah it' always good to see tyou and the guys!

I think the guy you were refering to might be Jim from the Ohio group OSWCC.  He's a great guy, and I've bought some stuff off him in the past.  That's who I grabbed my EV 9D9 off of.  We've crossed paths a few times, saw him at CIII..and he always has some great vintage stuff, especially misc. stuff like wepons, parts, etc.  (al that little stuff that's nice to rummage through at the cons)

I'm with you, won;t pay the scalper prices (don;t feel there's really a need to)   and digging for the oddball stuff still has a nice old world flea market feel to it.

Later!  Hope to see you at the comicon tomorrow!

Title: Steel City Con July 2007
Post by: bobafett14 on July 6, 2007, 02:37 PM
Details:

http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com

We'll be setup there as usual...as well as the 501st!

FYI, looking to anyone belonging to http://www.pswcs.com (PA Star Wars Collectors Society) to volunteer to work the booth Sat. and Sun.  Times available as of today are:

Sat 12PM-6PM
and
Sunday 10AM-3PM

Typicall looking for an hour, but if you;d like to man the table longer just let me knwo.  email me at: bobraspet@aim.com

Thanks!  See you there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Title: Re: Steel City Con July 2007
Post by: Jesse James on July 25, 2007, 01:34 AM
I'm bumping this since the show is this weekend.

Steel City Con has really grown into something special and it keeps getting bigger, so I'm anxious for the show to start.  I've been budgeting money for this thing all month, and thus doing without toy runs for the month for the most part (blah), so this is pretty big, haha.

I enjoy getting together with my other PSWCS buddies at the show of course, and we always do lunch down at John Harvard's Microbrew.  If you're within driving distance of the show (Ohio, NY, NJ, MD, VA, WV, etc.), you really should stop by and contact me beforehand if you want to meet up and hang out with the local gang.

Jeremy Bulloch is the big draw to this show but a couple other SW guests are attending.  It's my first time meeting Bulloch so that too is exciting for me since I'd like his autograph.

Lots of Star Wars deals usually to be had here, and if you're careful you can spend a lot, and come home with a ton more than what you spent.  Scalpers abound, but just be careful of them.  ;)

The show's fantastic though, so come on over...  It's also a very inexpensive event with $7 general admission and $10 early buyer admission.  You can't beat that considering what other shows charge these days.  See you there folks!  I'll be the spazz with a Yoda pack on.
Title: Re: Steel City Con July 2007
Post by: Nirvana on July 29, 2007, 12:51 AM
Not a bad show today...showed up from 2:30 to 4:30, saw Jeremy Bulloch (didn't feel like shelling out 20 bucks for an autograph ( ::)), and picked up some great deals. I got a loose ATTE Gunner ($7), a loose SA clone ($6), a carded ROTS Plo Koon ($5), and a loose VOTC Fett ($15, something I've been wanting for a very long time). Then I stopped at the Robinson WalMart on the way home and found 2 TAC Stormies.
Title: Re: Steel City Con July 2007
Post by: Jesse James on August 3, 2007, 03:25 AM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/7-06/PittToyShowBanner2.jpg)

I posted a little Steel City Con Wrap-Up (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1186040967,99101,) the other day on the front page.  The Pittsburgh Toy Show really is becoming one of the more fun toy/collectibles shows for the East, and with the autograph thing they're getting going it's really becoming more of a convention than just a toy show. 

As always the show's a place I spend more money than I probably should...  I was saving all month to just shop at the show though actually, so I knew where I stood going in financially.  I tend not to be a HUGE shopper there for anything "new"...  I will say, this is probably the first time I walked out with pretty much brand new stuff though. 

I'm a stickler for good prices, so I never pay over retail...  Deals can be had at the show in abundance though.  If you're into custom fodder there are always lots of dealers selling loose modern for cheap.  There was a lot of vintage again but not quite as much as the last show.  I did see some nice boxed pieces at a few tables though, and one guy had some really choice loose vintage figures w/original accessories but vintage wasn't on my radar for the day.

Anyway though, I picked up a number of loose droid figures like 2-1B, ASP-7 and the like for $2 a piece.  I got a few of the droids from the astromech packs as well (the red R4 droid for instance) for a scant $4 each.  I think I got 3 astromechs for that price...  Not bad eh?  :)  I got 4 Death Star Troopers and 2 Rebel Guards for $6 each, those were the "new" items I purchased at the show, which is rare, but for less than retail I couldn't pass them up!  :)  I mean, hell I'd pay $7.10 for those at Wal-Mart so why not $6 a piece?  I picked up 2 VTSC Sandpeople for $7 (for both) off the guy with the astromechs too.  Love that kind of a deal really...  Wound up with a $4 Yavin Ceremony Luke too for customizing...  a figure I've hardly even seen on the pegs.  I also got two Snowtroopers (VTAC) for $7 each that were opened and had the tabs removed.  I'm happy with $7 Snowies though. ;)

I got a box of Kleenex, my "oddball" purchase for the day, with ESB pictures all over it...  Unopened, nice condition.  It's a nice complement to the box I got at the last show with McQuarrie art on it I thought and for a good price I felt (not that I know what's good on those or not). 

Some things I passed on though that I saw for good prices were STAP's for $5 a piece, a yellow Evolutions Clone set for $20, etc.  Not bad prices on some things...  Other things, not so much.  Like I said though, deals can be found.  McQuarrie Concept figures were INSANELY priced.  I mean, just nutty ****.  The cheapest I saw McBacca was $12...  Boba I saw for $15 and no less...  The most I saw for a Boba or McBacca was $50 (yes, $50 for one figure).  Really stupid **** like that...  It also showed where a lot of the McQuarrie figures from PIttsburgh are too...  in the hands of scalpers.

I got to meet Jeremy Bulloch and get an autograph...  I unfortunately didn't get time to meet/speak with the other Star Wars celebs at the show as I wasn't getting autographs from everyone, but they seemed busy early Sunday and all Saturday signing stuff. 

As always, the PSWCS Western gang wound up at John Harvard's Micro-brew down the street from the Expo-Mart in Monroeville, PA.  A good time drinking, talking, and just having fun...  And some trading/selling too.  I know I had some things for others, and some folks had things for me, so I wound up spending and getting some dough all at the same time.

I had a great time though, lots of good deals ultimately...  Spent a bit, but it was worth it I think...  The only sad part of the day was running into the biggest douche of a toy dealer I think I've ever met, and that says a TON about this guy since I've met a lot of douchey toy dealers in my time, haha. ;)  He had some opened vintage modern 30AC figures and was asking $8 a piece, which he obviously had taken the mail-in tabs to send in for the coins...  So, I simply asked if he'd sell two (Leia and a Snowtrooper, my thinking being that a Leia is tough to pawn off on anyone while the Snowie is a decent figure) for $10...  Of course I'm always willing to do some negotiation and most dealers are too because they want to sell stuff... 

The guy's reply was this, "I told you, they are $8 each" with basically an eyeroll.   ;D  Now, I probably would've spent $12 or $13 for them, I would've negotiated ya know?  But he was really bitchy about it, so I put the figures down and walked away.  This was Saturday...  I came back Sunday then to the show and his table had sold hardly anything it seemed and he'd only sold the Snowtrooper (big shock) of the vintage figures he had there...  The sad thing to me was he had a 501st Legion T-Shirt on...  The 501st guys are usually a pretty great group, without a doubt, so I'm not sure he's a part of them...  He had the shirt on though, and maybe is the group's "bad apple"?  I dunno.  I'm pretty content just not to buy off him though...  From what I heard, I'm not the first of the Western PSWCS members to have trouble with him too like this, he's I guess really bitchy with others who have tried to deal with him in the past.  To each their own though I figure. 

Never had any problems with other dealers though, they usually are willing to negotiate and fun really to deal with over toys.  It's really a rarity when you get the guy who just won't budge and acts somehow offended that you even suggested a negotiation, haha.

Overall though, I must say the show was again fantastic.  I think the December show still always ranks as the biggest, best, and most active one of the year.  I think it's the build-up to the Christmas season maybe, but it really is nice to get the Summer show in too, as well as the Spring show in March/April.  They're all good and for some reason I always walk away with a lot less money.

Just talkign to the dealers too, I noticed a number of people from pretty far away...  Toronto area, Florida, the Carolinas, New Jersey, and really all over.  Of course lots from Ohio, Pennsylvania, WV, MD and the like though, and just north in NY like the Buffalo area...  Lots of dealers from all over though...  The show's growing.  I hope some day it's so big it needs both sides of the Expo-Mart to contain it. :)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on October 16, 2007, 12:41 AM
Bumping...

Show's coming back in December of course, and Richard Lapamierre (spelling) is slated to be a guest.  Not sure how many (if any) other SW guests are coming though.  Hope for more as I have my Motti autograph set, and usually like to nab a signature at these shows.

Not far off now for this one, and the December show is always, ALWAYS, the biggest, so head to Pittsburgh if you want and come out with the Western Pennsylvania crew for some beers at lunch if you can!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 3, 2007, 02:33 PM
WOW, What a weekend that turned out to be!  Lots of fun, and good seeing Jesse and the rest of the gang Sat. for drinks and lunch!

I was kinda shocked to see UGH figs going for $6 at the show.  Grabbed a few of them.  It was good to see most of the guys in the group were finding just about all of the figs fairly easily.  Lately, it seems that the the scalping has reduced drastically.  Granted tehre were a few McQuarrie figs, and some of the newer figs going for $10 or $12, but many were still sitting there by shows end Sunday.

I kinda gave up on Hasbro all together.  Why do I need for example another AT-AT when the one I buy today for $80 won't be worth that a year from now, and by then, they'll repack another one and I can get it for the same price or less.

I'd love to see Hasbro start "retiring" figs.  For example, make the last Biggs figure EVER....and stick to it.
If you collect, and you think you'll have a shot at buying somethign tomorrow for the same price or less, why buy it today?

Maybe Hasbro will now take a hint that we don't want all this repacked crap they send our way.  Even some of the dealers at the show have kinda agreed that by them repacking about 10 versions of everything, people kinda get tired of buying an action figure for $6 today that they can get for $3 next year.  Hasbro  reeeeeeeeeally killed thier own market.

 


Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Nirvana on December 3, 2007, 05:57 PM
The only time I had time to get out there was Sunday afternoon. So I got up there at about 2:30 and stayed for the rest of the show.

I was very pleasantly suprised- they still had alot of great stuff out and since it was near the end of the show, people had marked down their prices a bit.

I also had the pleasure of meeting Marauder John himself (from marauderinc.com) and was able to talk to him for a bit and get some weapons. Just for stopping by the booth you got a free weapon of your choice.

All in all, I got:
RotS Ki-Adi- $5
RotS #41- $5
TSC Death Star Gunner- $7
Marauder Guns- $7
The only real splurge I had was on the TAC Jango Fett for $10. Wasn't a bad price, and I figured I wouldn't see it anyways.

A really great show this year and I'm looking forward to the next one.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on January 16, 2008, 04:49 AM
Just some random news...

The upcoming show is for March (22nd I believe?), and Kenny Baker is the SW guest slated for the gig.  Should be fun...  Maybe we'll get some time to hang out with him because I hear he's a legendary fun guy to go grab a beer with!  He needs to come to Harvard's with us. ;D

And this isn't breaking news, but apparantly the show itself as a business is up for sale...  Crazy stuff, and I don't know what it'll mean for the show, but it's pretty interesting at least.  If I had the moolah I'd be buying it immediately.  I've always wished I could own/run something like that. :)

It's such a good show too...  The East Coast needs something big that has room to grow and improve IMO.  This show's so established, I really feel it is the kind of thing that could become that kind of a show, but that's me.

Good times...  And it sounds like Pitt Comic-Con is dead, so maybe now is the time for something like that to happen.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on June 19, 2008, 02:22 PM
Just some new news about the con. This will be the last time it will be held at the Monroeville Expo Mart since the building has been sold and will be converted into offices. :'( What a shame. I loved being able to stay at the adjoining Radisson and walk through a hallway to get into the show each morning. The new location will be announced within the next couple of weeks from what I was told. The guest list for the July 26th-27th show can be found on the website:

www.steelcitycon.com

I will still be doing this show and I hope to see most of the regulars back and also at the new location. I understand the new location will let the promoter do things that the expo mart couldn't. 8)

James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on June 19, 2008, 03:45 PM
I'd only imagine it could be the David L. Lawrence Convention Center downtown James, which is fine...  It's not as close for me as the Expo Mart though, and this totally dicks up us going to John Harvard's for lunch, but there's a myriad of places to eat at downtown too so whatever. :)

That's if it winds up there...  Honestly though I can't think of another suitable place off the top of my head.  You locals have any ideas?

Thanks for the heads up on this too James, and as always good to see you man...

I'll try to see what I can dig up about the new building too.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: stormtrooper213 on June 19, 2008, 08:19 PM
Yeah, DL is the most logical choice.  Pluse its way closer for me.  Downtown is the center for everyone.   

Of course there is the Beer House in Market square for our imbibing needs.  Plus Primantis and you can always get a Rothilisburger at peppis.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Thrawn on June 19, 2008, 10:19 PM
Dang I am going to miss the beer sampler at John Harvards....


If they move it downtown to the DL we will have to start paying for parking too.

Assuming it moves there my suggestion for Lunch would be Church Beer Works...
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 10, 2008, 11:57 PM
An update on the show...  It's right around the corner now, and this indeed will be the last show at the Monroeville Expo-Mart...  I'm as curious as the next guy where the new show will be, but I have heard word from the show's coordinator that they do have a new location procured and more will be announced on that in the future.

As always the Pittsburgh Toy Show will have members of the 501st Stormtrooper Legion: Garrison Carrida in attendance.  Likewise they'll have many members of teh www.PSWCS.com (Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society) around at the show (myself included).  We're always at the show and most of us have a club shirt on so you can always flag one of us down and ask how to sign up or go hit up the link there.

Here's the latest press release for the upcoming show (the last weekend in July) for your reading pleasure:

Quote
Steel City Con
JULY 26-27, 2008 at the Monroeville Expomart.
GENERAL ADMISSION IS ONLY $7
   
www.steelcitycon.com
 
7/2008 
 
CELEBRITY GUEST ADDITION
 
We are proud to announce that KANE HODDER ("Jason Voorhees" from FRIDAY THE 13TH) will be attending the upcoming Steel City Con in July! This is very exciting news for our Horror fans. For additional details please go to our website.
 
DEALER TABLES FOR THE JULY SHOW
 
Time is running out to get your Dealer Tables! With the recent news that the Expomart will no longer be hosting shows of any kind after October we anticipate this upcoming show will be our biggest attended show in history! Dealer tables are going quickly so DON'T WAIT ANOTHER MINUTE to secure your tables! Tables still only $75 each!   
 
NO MORE SHOWS AT THE EXPOMART
 
Oxford Development, the company that owns the Monroeville Expomart will be turning the building over to a third party in October of this year. This third party is converting the Expomart into office space and has no interest in having shows of any kind in the future. Thus, this upcoming July Steel City Con will be our last show in the Monroeville location. This information is now being communicated to all of our attendees and dealers. Since most dealers and attendees will want to attend this last show we expect it will be the biggest turnout in our history. So make your plans now to attend and please let all of your friends and family know that this will be our last show at the Monroeville location.  We do want everyone to know that we have secured a new home for the Steel City Con and we will communicate that exciting information to everyone in the weeks to come!.
   
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN SPECIAL PROMOTION
 
Our signing guests Vanessa Branch ("Giselle" from Pirates) and Lauren Maher ("Scarlett" from Pirates) will be offering a special promotion to the first 1500 attendees at the July Steel City Con. They will be giving away a free autograph (your choice of either Giselle or Scarlett) for attendees who sign up for the first month of their new web series called "Breakfast in Bed" for only $10. This new web series involves both Vanessa and Lauren travel to the homes of Pirates co-stars and Star Trek actors and conduct interviews with them "in bed"
CERTIFICATES OF AUTHENTICITY
 
Don't forget to stop off at the official Steel City Con Certificates of Authenticity Booth located in our Celebrity signing area.  This is a great way to retain the value of your autographed item. Cost is only $5 and include a FREE acrylic photo holder.
 
JULY SHOW HOTEL ROOMS
 
Due to several major conventions in the Monroeville area the weekend of our event most hotels in Monroeville are  sold-out.
 
RADISSON HOTEL: ALL rooms sold out.
 
HOLIDAY INN - MONROEVILLE - Block expires on July 5th:: Only 50 rooms available at $99 in our room block.  Call (412) 372-1022 and ask for reservations. Don't forget to mention that you are attending the STEEL CITY CON and you want the special room rate.
           
HAMPTON INN - MONROEVILLE: Only 50 rooms available at $119 in our room block. Call (412) 380-4000 and ask for reservations. Don't forget to mention that you are attending the STEEL CITY CON and you want the special room rate.
MORE SHOW SPECIALS ADDED
 
To see all the great promoter sponsored deals please go to http://www.steelcitycon.com/specials.asp
 
 
GIVEAWAYS
 
SATURDAY ONLY!  FREE DISNEY TREASURES COMBO GIFT SET! to the first 1,000 customers during EARLY BUYER EVENT on Saturday morning! This item is valued at higher than the price of admission so you don't want to miss this one! This Special Event is Sponsored by GAME AGAIN http://www.gameagainstores.com
   
CELEBRITY / ENTERTAINMENT AND COMIC GUESTS
 
ALL CELEBRITY GUESTS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR AUTOGRAPHS
BOTH DAYS FROM 10AM-4PM!

DAWN MARIE -  WWE Superstar Diva!

KANE HODDER - Jason Voorhees from FRIDAY THE 13TH

ANTHONY FORREST -  STORMTROOPER  from STAR WARS famous Jedi Trick scene! 
     
LARRY THOMAS -  SOUP NAZI from SEINFELD TV Show! No Soup For You!
 
VANESSA BRANCH  -  GISELLE from PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN!   

LAUREN MAHER  -  SCARLETT from PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN!   
 
GRAVELY MACCABRE -  CASTLE BLOOD'S MIDNIGHT MONSTER  HOP

THE BATMOBILE! -  1966 Classic TV Batmobile!  Get your picture taken sitting in the Batmobile! A rare opportunity!
 
MARS ATTACKS MT. PLEASANT! Actors from movie will be on hand at the July Show. Go to website for details!
       
RICHARD MARCEJ - Famous Illustrator and Hasbro Toy Designer!
   
JAY FIFE -  Pin-up & Fantasy Artist! DAVE NESTLER - Famous Pin-up Artist!
 
Steel City Con, Celebrating 19 years as PA's Largest Toy & Pop Culture Convention!

Now if you're curious about Steel City Con and you'd like checking it out, I advise checking out the website for it obviously, but some of the short details are that it's being held July 26th and 27th at the Monroeville Expo-Mart.  This will be the LAST show at the Expo-Mart however there is a NEW location for the next show (in December) so that's news to come later.

The show's a pretty hefty one and always packed with Star Wars products both vintage and modern.  It's a great place to score that piece you're still looking for.  :)  I know I always leave having spent way too much cash, haha.

The Monroeville Expo-Mart is very conveniently located off the Pennsylvania Turnpike and is just minutes from downtown Pittsburgh.  It's a nice idea I think to make a little weekend trip to see Pittsburgh and attend the show I think...  A little weekend getaway for you and the family.

Some hotels are open too I guess, in the Monroeville area, despite a lot of large conventions in the city at that time.  Monroeville's far enough outside the downtown area that there's some rooms available for the show yet but none at the Raddison attached to the show.

The show is also located outside the Monroeville Mall...  The setting for the original Dawn of the Dead, so if you're a horror fan it's fun to go check out the mall as it's pretty unchanged from the film actually.

If you're in Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland/DC, New York or Ontario, etc., the show is a pretty easy drive actually.  People always attend from those areas I've noted.

This is a big one since it's the last at the Expo-Mart before they move onto a new location, so I hope to see you there.  I'll be there Saturday for certain covering the event.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on July 14, 2008, 03:36 AM
***************UPDATE*************************

The Steel City Con is moving to the Pittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena(PISA) starting in October. The show will double in size and now will be 3 days (M-F) instead of two. The show will also now be only twice( tentatively October and April) a year instead of three times a year. The first show at the new location will be October 24-26 2008. The new location is one exit away(exit 56) from Monroeville and will be a much larger venue. The new Pitsburgh mills mall is 3 miles away and there's also nearby local hotels and restaurants. The Arena is visable from the freeway and will allow more exhibitors and events that the Expomart could not. More info will be posted on the site www.steelcitycon.com when it's posted to the public.

You heard it first on jedidefender.com! 8)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 14, 2008, 03:24 PM
I have been to the Pittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena, and it is indeed pretty massive...  I can't recall what the parking situation is like there but it'll be free because there's nothing else there.  Harmarville is right over the hill though and there's Primanti's there, Target...  And the Mills Mall is right up the road.

This is my neck of the woods the show is moving to actually...  Well, my gf's actually, but I'm there half of the time anyway so I'm kinda glad it's there for that reason.  I'll miss Monroeville but I think the show in this area will be a lot of fun since I practically live there.

It's an area becoming more and more built up over time so it's something that is bound to get more attractions to it.

I like having the show going to 2 times a year but I'll miss the December show.  October is sorta cool though I think.  That'll be a new experience.

This show should have a lot of new opportunities due to the building's size and capacity.  It'd be really great to see Steel City Con become more of an event to not just be a toy show, but replace Comic-Con which seemingly is dead in the water at this point.  If SCC were to take over that niche I think it would just get huge...  A Toy Show plus comic/film/etc. convention would be massive.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on July 20, 2008, 10:19 PM
I'm kinda loving it because it's minutes away!  Monroeville was pretty close, but this is nice too. Like Jesse said there's some things around the area as well.   I'm right up by Oakmont C.C. so it works.

Hey Jesse, don;t be a stranger, if you're out and about give me a ring.  I just got a promotion to National Accounts, so I'll be starting the whole East coast/west coast thing again, but not for at least another month.  Been eating at Primanti's and up by the mills more often lately. 

Later!

Edit:  Bob, I edited out your phone # so it's not public.  We don't want it getting out to people who shouldn't have it (we're cautious about it).  I've got your # in my phone and saved. :)  I'll see you Saturday if nothing else but you should come out Friday night for Midnight madness with us...  We've been discussing it some.  We're going to Cranberry and I'm going to just kill time basically and "to go" since it'll probably be the last one.

-JJ
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on August 22, 2008, 12:56 AM
Next show, late October...

Yes, the star guest of the next Steel City Con is...

Ray Park & Daniel Logan

(Had to remove the original guest, sorry)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 23, 2008, 03:36 PM
Wow...he doesn't do push-ups...he pushes the world down.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on August 24, 2008, 12:36 PM
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but The MAN! (Sorry, had to edit out the guest) will no longer be appearing at the show. >:(


He has been replaced by RAY PARK and DANIEL LOGAN. ;D

I don't know the events surrounding this but I'll try and find out.

Tickets for Ray Park will be sold starting on Friday according to the website. I think he's going to get quite a few people. I don't think he's ever done a con in Ohio or PA.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on August 24, 2008, 11:31 PM
I may try to get Park's auto...  Eh, why not?

The kids were looking forward to the now not named guest and are bummed he won't be there. :(
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 25, 2008, 02:51 AM
I may try to get Park's auto...  Eh, why not?

Why would you want to steal Ray Park's car?
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on August 25, 2008, 01:33 PM
Why, is it ******?
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Matt_Fury on August 25, 2008, 04:08 PM
Hey...you saw TPM...I'm pretty sure he could kick your ass if he wanted to.   :D
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on August 28, 2008, 02:11 AM
Or twirl around me spinning elegantly. :) 

Ray Park and Daniel Logan are pretty good guests though.  Never been here before and I am pretty set now on a Park autograph to go with my Prowse one.  I'm pumped I think...  Doubt I go for Logan's  though.  Bulloch's enough for me, and if I were ever to get one for Jango, so be it.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on September 30, 2008, 08:16 PM
The new and improved Pittsburgh Steel City Con  is right around the corner...  About a month out from it actually.

The show will feature a number of celebrity guests including Star Wars actors Daniel Logan (Young Boba Fett) as well as Ray Park (Darth Maul), both making their first appearances in the Pittsburgh area.  Not a bad duo at all, and I'm thinking I definitely want a Ray Park autograph.

The new Steel City Con location is the Pittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena just off PA Route 910 in Harmarville.  The convention's new location features more floorspace for vendors and show guests, and they're also extending the show to 3 day weekends.  Friday Oct. 24th, Saturday Oct. 25th, and Sunday Oct. 26th

As always the show is expected to generate a lot of Star Wars goodness, and this October's show will also feature the local Toy Drive.  Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collector's Society (PSWCS) and the local 501st Legion Garrison Carrida, the toy drive is always a big success, so please bring a packaged toy to donate if you can!

The new location for the Steel City Con is one exit further East (Harville/Allegheny Valley Exit) on the PA Turnpike from the old location, so it's a very convenient stop, and only 15 or 20 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh!  There are plenty of hotels in the area, and the Pittsburgh Mills Mall is a short drive North of the new show.  (And if you're in the area, I happen to live pretty close to all this so hopefully I'll see you there!)

So if your'e in the area, or not even, make the trip!  It's always a Star Wars haven and worth it.  The new and improved Steel City Con is bound to have what you want, modern or vintage, and we'll look forward to seeing you there!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on January 26, 2009, 11:46 PM
Next Show...  The weekend of April 24th!

This show will be again at the Pittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena, which is in my neck of the woods (well, where I spend half my time anyway), and they just announced today their first Star Wars celebrity guest.  Orli Shoshan is going to be there (Shaak Ti).  I have no idea for sure, but I think this is the first time she's been to Pittsburgh area, no?  Very cool.

The show had a pretty good turnout in October for the new location.  Parking is a bit of a premium so get there early, but it's not too bad either.  It's just not as abundant as the old place.

Unfortunately, my new work schedule's got me busy Saturdays, so I doubt I'm there till Sunday now.  Still, it's a great show as always, so I'm hoping Ic an convince you Pittsburgh guys to shift your day you go!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Theta 288 on February 18, 2009, 06:27 AM
Would like to visit one day

I'm about 2hr away, never been in one, but seen people bringing their huge stuff at diferent malls, price goes to ok  to extreme...

.For how much goes the price per figures,vehicle etc., at these conventions,retails,aforable, or ?

.Can one find people with their loose figure/vehicle collection & return home with a good  lot, or you seen just carded stuff?

Thats my main reason to visit, 2nd just for my wife,kids & I experience a diferent stuff, probably on a Saturday.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 19, 2009, 12:27 AM
In general it's a pretty good mix Theta...  I usually get good deals on loose stuff, army builders, random junk that I want.  There's lots of vintage at it usually which of course is pricey.  Usually a healthy mix of carded and loose there too.

Lots of carded modern at the show but the prices are usually disturbing.  Loose stuff is usually much more acceptable price-wise.

Let me know if you're coming into town for the show Theta.  I didn't realize you lived that close by.  I'm guessing you're in Ohio somewhere then. 

I'll not be at the show Saturdays for the foreseable future, but instead I'll be hitting it on Sunday.

The show is always great though.  This will only be its second time at the new venue though, so it's still going through some growing pains, but was still busy back in October.  I imagine it'll be busy this April too.

Anyway, you can always find something good at the show...  The "latest" stuff usually has a pretty outrageous pricetag on it, but older stuff is often pretty easy to obtain at a fair price.  I have a rule of never paying more than its original retail cost, and I've stuck to that since I started collecting, but yet I've always spent a lot at the TOy Show, so I manage to always get a LOT of great deals.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Theta 288 on February 21, 2009, 12:39 PM
In general it's a pretty good mix Theta...  I usually get good deals on loose stuff, army builders, random junk that I want.  There's lots of vintage at it usually which of course is pricey.  Usually a healthy mix of carded and loose there too.

Lots of carded modern at the show but the prices are usually disturbing.  Loose stuff is usually much more acceptable price-wise.

Let me know if you're coming into town for the show Theta.  I didn't realize you lived that close by.  I'm guessing you're in Ohio somewhere then. 

I'll not be at the show Saturdays for the foreseable future, but instead I'll be hitting it on Sunday.

The show is always great though.  This will only be its second time at the new venue though, so it's still going through some growing pains, but was still busy back in October.  I imagine it'll be busy this April too.

Anyway, you can always find something good at the show...  The "latest" stuff usually has a pretty outrageous pricetag on it, but older stuff is often pretty easy to obtain at a fair price.  I have a rule of never paying more than its original retail cost, and I've stuck to that since I started collecting, but yet I've always spent a lot at the TOy Show, so I manage to always get a LOT of great deals.

I'm very glad for your information Jesse!  :)

My wife liked the plan for us to stay in a hotel room for 2 days, perhaps arriving saturday, that would give us a chance to meet each other  ;)

And  indeed, I'm  an Ohioan just in front of Lake Erie to give you a hint  ;).

I'm sad to heard of how expensive one  can find the newest stuff, but of course, it was to be expected,& I will follow your rule ( not buying at scalping price).

I hope this is the way or secret if I'm not mistaking of getting  a richer SW collection for a fair price  of course not in one day...

PS: I always wonder, how a big collector like Darth Soundwave (http://threads.rebelscum.com/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=2134086&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=93&fpart=1#2134086) got his huge Clone collection, he woulnd't reveal where he got them from, but he stated that he got each figures at $2.50 each, and I know that few local stores in the same area wouldn't ever have that amount of each clones that he has... so there must be a Star Wars Black Market somewhere  :), cuz he said as well that he is not "rich" but indeed has one of the richest collection ever seen....So my question is: Where Tha F*** he got it from?  :)

Contact you soon Jess if this goes on for real!  ;), just looking for a good time with fans & family & not just up to  my foolish dream , but at least I expect to find the clone variants that I dont have  & other characters of interest.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 23, 2009, 10:52 PM
The April 24th, 25th, and 26th show updated with a new guest...

Anthony Daniels is showing up!  Pretty darn cool.  Wishing he was there Sunday, but betting he won't be, so I'm going to probably have to miss out on his autograph.  However, that's a big name for the show and it'd be great to see him.  :)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Theta 288 on March 23, 2009, 11:02 PM
The April 24th, 25th, and 26th show updated with a new guest...

Anthony Daniels is showing up!  Pretty darn cool.  Wishing he was there Sunday, but betting he won't be, so I'm going to probably have to miss out on his autograph.  However, that's a big name for the show and it'd be great to see him.  :)

Just let him sign your Exclusive C-3po card with the  large golden phallus... you will get more than his autograph  ;)

PS: dont do it... he hate that card haha!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on April 23, 2009, 06:51 PM
Hey James,

Not sure if you're around but I see a lot of folks from NY are coming in and wanting to meet up, and places to eat and things...  If you're around here before the show, let them know everyone is welcome to meet up for dinner or lunch with the PA guys.

The restaurant down over the hill that is a Pittsburgh tradition is "Primanti Brothers".  The original restaurants are down in the city, but the ones out in the burbs are just as good, and have generally bigger menues than the ones in the city do.

I'll be around Friday, maybe you can meet up with the locals and come grab a bite at Primanti's. :)

Talk to you over the weekend though.  I'm sure I'll run into you.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on April 28, 2009, 01:17 AM
A little wrap-up here on the Steel City Con from this past weekend...

First, as always the show was a good time.  The local PSWCS crew didn't have a really firm get-together though, as the location + 3-day-weekend + everyone's schedule conflicts pretty much put the kabosh on a really solid way we could all gather.  Still though I got to see/hang out with a couple of the gang, and that's always a good thing! [/end Martha]

I went Friday afternoon to get sort of a feel as to what was available and if any of it was at a fair price...  As per usual the show had a LOT of modern, and some of it was pretty good prices.  Some newer items were fairly priced too, like the Joker Squad sets, but I didn't see anything BRAND new at any table...  That's good since it means they hadn't gotten it to hock yet.  :-X

I didn't see much vintage though, and that was a bummer...  A couple of the regular vintage dealers weren't there unfortunately it seemed, so there wasn't much for the old school collector to enjoy, but I suspect the next show will be different. ;)  More on that later.

There were a number of GI Joe items, both vintage and new, but no DVD packs.  I was looking for the last one for my brother but couldn't find it.  Bummer.

There was a cool "ghost" picture booth...  This was towards the back rows, and what it was, was this guy makes pictures that, as you walk past them, they change from a normal photo to the characters in it being dead or something.  It's very cool!  I actually have something similar from Big Lots this past Halloween, and the ones this couple did and had on display were similar but much higher quality.  Very neat stuff.

There were some talented sketch artists in attendance as well, though sketch art and comics aren't my cup of tea really.

The R2 Builders Club was there and had their astromechs and mouse droids all on display and running.  They hit my foot/shin with a mouse droid after losing control of him though. ;D  Not sure if any of them stop by JD's forums to read this but I sorta laughed.  It rolled over then and fell apart.  I never saw a MD do that in Star Wars ever, but it was funny when it happened at my feet.

The PSWCS crew didn't have a table, and that's another reason it was a little hard to gather, as we always use the table as a meeting spot at the show, but it's also tough to staff the table as we don't have a huge crew out here in the West like they do in the East, plus we're all always busy on the weekends it seems so time is sparse.

I got to run into Bob, Mike, Bill F., Dave...  I'm hoping Scott/Nikki are better!

Dave, Bill, and myself all headed down to Primanti's Friday night after the show for dinner and my gf came down as well.  As always, Primanti's rocks.  I ran into Bob and Mike on Sunday, the other day I attened, and it's always good to see you guys...  Hopefully soon we can ALL get together maybe this Summer. 

Orli Shoshan was there signing, and man is she a beautiful girl...  I truly wouldn't have guessed what she looked like under the make-up.  I hope she had a good time signing.  I didn't actually get her autograph and only spoke with her as Mike was sitting with her, but she seemed pretty nice.

I did get Anthony Daniels to sign for me, as I would've forever regretted it, had I not.  I told him to have a good time in Pittsburgh and he surprised me by saying he's actually here quite often.  I heard later he maybe teaches a drama class at Pitt, so that's neat.  He said he always enjoys his time here...  he strikes me as a pretty cultured and traveled guy, so I was curious where he's found here that he enjoys dining at the most.  I'm a big dining out guy, and so I always like people's opinions when they travel and experience a lot.  He asked what name I'd like on the auto, and I asked him just for his, and he obliged.  I got it on a photo of him in the Tantive IV corridor...  It's the first scene, so how could you not? :)  Again though, Anthony Daniels was an incredibly cool guy who seemed like you could easily engage him in a conversation if you wanted to for a while.

I didn't buy a TON at this show, but I did score 3 separate "5 for $20" deals...  Two were with the same dealer different times, and one was Sunday with another dealer's table.  I got a bunch of Honor Guards, Death Star Troopers (30AC), Death Star Gunners, ROTS Royal and Senate Guard, and a Capt. Antilles (Saga) figure.  All good deals.

Dave ordered a bunch of Joker Squad sets too, so I got one of those off him for a cool $36...  I spent more than enough.  Mr. Daniels' autograph was only $25 though, so that was a steal for a photo and signature from the only guy in all 6 films.  Very cool.

OK, so the good news...  As much as I enjoy the new location since it's in my basically back yard, I'll be happy to announce that in December the show RETURNS to Monroeville, PA.  While I like having the convenience of it here, the area is just not suited to conventions.  I think Monroeville is such a big suburb with much more to do outside the show at it, that the show will be best there for growth and attracting people further away.

The new convention center in Monroeville will be right near the old Expo Mart.  The old Wickes Furniture is bieng renovated into a con center now, and that's awesome.  It'll be by the famed Monroeville Mall again (Dawn of the Dead fans rejoice at that), and I'll just enjoy having more places to dine at and things... t hough I'm cool if we always go to Primanti's now!

If any of you guys from out of town come into Pitt for a future show, LET ME KNOW!  You're more than welcome to come grab lunch with the locals.  Seriously I like hanging out with new folks, so just PM me or whatever...  It was a great show, and I'm sure it'll get growing again in Monroeville as I think the new (now old) location stunted it slightly on growth.

(And as always a thanks to the show's staff for giving me the "in" for the weekend!  Dom and the gang rock!!!!)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on May 16, 2009, 01:29 AM
The show's first SW guest for December will be Peter Mayhew! I imagine more will be announced this summer. ;)


James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on May 16, 2009, 05:13 PM
I am already stoked for this guest.  :)  New center, awesome guest...  You gotta come eat at Primanti's with us too for once.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on May 17, 2009, 05:35 PM
I am already stoked for this guest.  :)  New center, awesome guest...  You gotta come eat at Primanti's with us too for once.

I'll be set up at this one. It might be too much to ask the wife to watch the booth while I leave to go get food, but you never know. ;)

James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on May 17, 2009, 10:26 PM
I'll do dinner after the show too...  Either would suit me honestly.  You guys just have to try the local cuisine at least once. ;)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 2, 2009, 09:17 PM
It's that time of year again...

(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/7-06/PittToyShowBanner2.jpg)

Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1257214232,57095,) returns to the Pittsburgh area, and makes its homecoming back to Monroeville, PA (Home to the Monroeville Mall, the setting of the original "Dawn of the Dead").

People come from around the country for this show, and it's back in busy Monroeville so the lodging and shopping abound for those coming in for the weekend.  

Check out the link to read up on the show, and the special Star Wars guest Peter Mayhew!  I'll be in attendance for at least one day, possibly more, and look forward to seeing you there! :)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on November 14, 2009, 12:17 AM
Just an update that Peter Mayhew will be signing ALL 3 days and not just Sat and Sun. I'll be set up there(not sure where yet since it's a new venue) but look for the SABRESEDGE  banner or 4 tables worth of SW goodness! 8)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 14, 2009, 01:00 AM
We're doing dinner Friday night (the locals) if you wanna join us James.  Just let me know.  I have your cell # I believe.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on November 14, 2009, 02:24 AM
We're doing dinner Friday night (the locals) if you wanna join us James.  Just let me know.  I have your cell # I believe.

It's a possibility. I'll be at the show until 7pm and then hotel check in. I have to see what the wifey wants to do as well. I just PM'd you my cell in case you don't have it. 8)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 14, 2009, 02:25 AM
Cool man.  I'll see you Friday afternoon if nothing else...  Not sure when everyone's doing dinner, so we'll have to see but I hope you guys can make it.  I'm not likely to be there Saturday but rather Sunday I think.  Pen's tickets for Saturday.  I'll see you at the show either way, man.  :)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 1, 2009, 02:48 AM
A scant few days off and Steel City Con is back.  I'm anxious to see the show, the new location it's at (which is right beside its original home in Monroeville...  I'm just happy it's back in Monroeville), and of course to see everyone in attendance.

I'm also anxious to donate some toys to the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society's toy drive in coordination with the 501st Legion's Garrison Carrida.  They do this every year around the holidays, and you can donate packaged Star Wars items (or other toys I believe) at the show.  I'm going to donate some Clone Wars toys I think since I guess that's what the kiddies love!  I'm really trying to be conscious of this stuff this year more than ever.  I've been really saddened by the number of "gift trees" at local churches and establishments.  :-\

As always I'm hoping to attend at least 2 days this year.  I'm definitely making it for Friday, and I believe the majority of the PSWCS guys and I are attending dinner afterwards.  Sunday I'd like to get back to the show.  Saturday I've got Pen's tickets so I'm not going to make it then I'm afraid.

For those of you into horror stuff too, the new location is just outside the Monroeville Mall, the filming site of the original Dawn of the Dead, and in general it's close to downtown Pittsburgh.  A pretty nice suburb to stay at if you're coming in from a ways out of town and wishing to stay.  Plus the Holiday Inn Monroeville still has rooms left at the show rate I believe.

If you're coming in, and want to meet up and say hey, I'm gonna be there Friday for sure, so contact me here and we'll exchange info!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on January 26, 2010, 02:02 AM
Man, it was just December for the last one, but already another Steel City Con is coming to Monroeville's Convention Center in a month!  As always I am planning to attend the show, which is taking place February 26th, 27th, and 28th in Monroeville, PA.  

For those who are into horror stuff too, the show's right near the Monroeville Mall, which was the sight of the original Dawn of the Dead filming.

I plan to attend either Saturday or Sunday, and of course the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society and the 501st's Garrison Carrida will be on hand.  

Also Matthew Wood, the voice of General Grievous, was just announced as attending the show, which i believe is his first appearance at a show here.

If you're attending, drop me a PM and we can meet up and hang out!  I'm all about visiting with the fans, and so soon after Toy Fair there's bound to be a lot to talk about!  If you've got any questions you drop me a note, or visit www.SteelCityCon.com to learn all you need to know to attend.

Thanks, and see  ya at the show!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: JesseVader08 on January 27, 2010, 03:19 AM
(http://www.steelcitycon.com/images/HEADER.jpg)

I just noticed this banner at the top of the website - sure makes we wish Pittsburgh was closer so I could check it out!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 17, 2010, 02:57 AM
It gets a fair number of people...  I guess I never realized it was that big.  I enjoy it though, but if you're ever in town Jess, we'll have to hang out all weekend...  :)

Just a 1.5 weeks away and another one...  I'm hoping they're spaced out a little bit in the future.  Dec then Feb is a bit close for my tastes, but at least it means some quality time with my local buds too.  That's never bad.  ;D  Well, the hangovers can be I guess.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: pghtorchwood on February 21, 2010, 11:28 PM
I'm totally going.  I had a ball at the last one.  I hope to be able to pick up another stuffed Ewok, so mine doesn't get lonely when I leave him all day. I also bought new shoes that I can't wait to premiere at the show.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 22, 2010, 12:35 AM
You need to meet up with the other Pittsburgh collectors Torchwood...  If you want my cell # to give me a call Saturday if you wanna hang out, just let me know and I'll PM it to you.

We're going to do lunch I think, show up for the morning and hang out then for lunch.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 6, 2010, 09:02 PM
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con returns in just one month (August 6th, 7th, & 8th) to the Monroeville Convention Center.  Are you ready? 

Head on out to our front page, www.JediDefender.com, or go to www.SteelCityCon.com, to get the scoop! 

Star Wars actor Jake Lloyd is making his first appearance in Pittsburgh and heading up the celebrity guest list!  This show grows every year, so make sure you hit this up before Celebration 5, or you'll miss out on one of the largest shows in the East!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on October 28, 2010, 12:30 AM
It's back again...

Pittsburgh's Steel City Con is returning December 3rd to the 5th!

This show is always the biggest, right before Christmas, and the PSWCS and 501st's Garrison Carida are always there to hold their charity toy drive.  Bring unopened toys, any toy really (but Star Wars is appreciated the most since the 501st give them out at hospitals), and donate!  It's that simple, and it's the time of year when giving should be in everyone's hearts.

Visit The Steel City Con Website (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) for more details! 

So far, Daniel Logan is making an appearance among other celebrity guests.  This show's incredibly convenient to get to from any number of east coast locations.  It's held just 15 minutes outside downtown Pittsburgh in Monroeville, PA's Convention Center. 

Look forward to everyone being there, and PM me or email if you are going and maybe we can hang out for lunch/dinner whenever the PSWCS group gets together!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on October 28, 2010, 12:53 AM
I'll be there with lots of Modern and Vintage for sale and looking forward to a great attendance with it being right before Christmas. I'm right smack in the middle of the show in row G, so stop by and say hey. If you guys are having a dinner again on Friday LMK, and maybe we'll come out for a bit.

James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on October 28, 2010, 03:18 AM
Will do James, and maybe we'll do Primanti's so you can experience the big sammies with everything. :)

My schedule's still up in the air as to what days I'm attending.  I'm hoping to get to two though.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 3, 2011, 03:28 AM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/PittToyShowBanner.gif)

Steel City Con is back, March 4th, 5th, & 6th.

It returns to the Monroeville Convention Center, located in Monroeville, PA.  This lovely suburb of Pittsburgh is home to the Monroeville Mall (just outside the con center), where the original Dawn of the Dead was filmed.  The show's featuring a long celebrity guest list already, and is always a treasure trove of Star Wars toys/collectibles.

Sometimes the newest stuff is around in abundance, other times it's Vintage that's in good quantity and quality.  You just never know!

www.SteelCityCon.com  <=== Visit!  The PSWCS and Jedi Defender will be there, as will the 501st's Garrison Carrida!  Hope to see you there!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: darth punkinhed on February 19, 2011, 10:01 AM
I know it may be a little early, the show is still 2 weeks away, but since this will be the second steel city I'm setting up at but have not actually knowingly met any JD board members I just thought I'd see who was planning on going. I know Jesse will be there. I don't know if we'll be able to make it to any dinners or whatnot outside of the show but who knows. Things can kinda get away from us when we do events like this since we end up running into a lot of dealers from other events we do. Still, always fun to meet fellow collectors.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: McMetal on February 24, 2011, 10:23 AM
Stupid question here - do they do this thing every other month or something? I feel like every time I turn around this show is going on. Aren't most conventions this size usually an annual affair?

Does Pennsylvania just have a high # of toy freaks or does it draw from all over? I lived in PA for almost four years but I have no recollection of it being a major toy hub. That was awhile ago though.

Sounds like a fun time!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 24, 2011, 04:36 PM
They do two or three a year, usually two though, and so there will probably be a gap between this one and the next in December.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 25, 2011, 02:46 AM
Steel City Con is just a week away...  March 4th to the 6th.  The show's going to be another interesting one with Star Wars, Batman, and AFA Graded Figures being given away!

As always, I'll be there wandering around...  It's shaping up that I'll probably attend on Friday this time, but it could vary.  I've got a busy weekend on tap so I'll be there at least one day regardless.

Hope to see you there!

Oh, and check out the Monroeville Mall after the show, if you're into Zombie history...  The mall will be changing some reportedly, and so it may be your last chance to see it with J.C. Penney's where it originally was for the filming of Dawn of the Dead.  Word is the store will be moving to another end of the mall, and where Penney's is now may wind up getting developed into an outdoor portion of the mall or a theater.

Thought I'd just throw this out for the Zombie guys coming to town.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on March 11, 2011, 02:01 AM
The show was great as usual(Doug Wangler was entertaining) and I hope everyone got a chance to hit the mall. The next show will be at the end of July and Jeremy Bulloch and Richard Leparmentier(Admiral Motti) will be the SW guests.  8)

James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 11, 2011, 02:18 AM
Yup and that was right away too...

Are you making it in July James?  I'm not so sure having them so close together is a good idea really because it could burn people out, but I hope not.  I plan on attending as always.

darth punkinhead was right behind you.  That was convenient for running around talking to everyone. :)

I picked up the McQuarrie art off you, and punkinhead sold me a couple Vinty figures which I greatly appreciated.  I got a couple other items for cheap like a Vintage Wave 2 Sidious for only $3 (loose). 

Didn't buy an ASP-7 droid though...  It may be my first show I didn't ipck up at least one.  A guy had one but no prices listed so I passed.  I hate when there's not a sign at least indicating what the prices are because half the sellers tend to be engaged when you come to their table so it's hard to get their time obviously.

Now I need to get the Empire and Jedi portfolios I guess...  You can't own one and not the other two I suppose. :P
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: darth punkinhed on March 31, 2011, 12:12 PM
I know I'm a little late posting here but James, were you the guy just across the aisle from me set up next to the DVD guy? Just curious, I was right next to a James who puts on the Columbus Toy Show so I know that wasn't you. If that wasn't you we'll have to meet up at the next show.

Jesse, again, good to meet you. I'm glad I could help on a few figures. Hopefully I'll have some new stuff at the next show. See you then. Hope to meet other board members too.

 
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 3, 2011, 11:32 AM
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con returns this month!

Check the front page for all the details, and what you need to know to attend.
http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1309706569,76485, (http://www.jedidefender.com/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1309706569,76485,)

The show keeps growing and people keep coming from further away, so I'm anxious to attend this event.  It's always a fun time, and a stone's throw from downtown Pittsburgh too so there's a lot to do in the evenings. 
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: darth punkinhed on July 9, 2011, 11:04 PM
I think it should be interesting to see how this show is over the summer. December was more fun than the last show but I think that's because there were more cosplayers and less people there just to get Adam West' autograph. I'll be there again and I have a friend who will be there that not only sells a lot of vintage SW/G1TF/joe but also weapons and accessories for those in need.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 11, 2011, 02:42 AM
That's cool man, I hope we can get some time hanging out and chatting.

I'm not sure what day I'm going yet, but it usually depends on what the group decides.

Summer I'm thinking will be similar to last show.  December's always the biggest.  Not really sure why, but it has always been the larger event.  This one should be good though with Motti/Boba Fett both.

I'll stop by and say hey at least.  I want you to be busy, yet at the same time I want to BS, haha.  It's a catch 22.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jimree on July 15, 2011, 03:39 PM
I am going Friday and Sunday
Possibly Saturday

Thanks,
Jim
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 15, 2011, 05:33 PM
Not sure when I'm going yet, which will largely depend on my schedule leading up to, and afterwards, but I'll definitely be going.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on July 15, 2011, 11:21 PM
I'll be there in the same spot as usual(in the middle with the large display between the "G" and "H" row markers). Stop by and say hey. Just picked up a rather large vintage and modern collection so lots of goodies will be available. 8)

James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 15, 2011, 11:26 PM
I'll be by for sure.  Just trying to nail down what day I'll actually be there, haha.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 8, 2011, 03:48 AM
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) returns to the Monroeville Convention Center (minutes from downtown Pittsburgh) this December 2nd - 4th!

The Star Wars guests include Bonnie Piesse (Young Aunt Beru) and Mark Dodson (Salacious Crumb) this time around, but also "The Fonz" Henry Winkler will be there, as well as Margot Kidder and others, so make your plans to attend!

The Hotel Room Block at the Doubletree is expiring this week so act soon to get the discounted rate.  It's a pretty nice hotel near the convention center, and puts you right in the heart of the area's dining and other features.

Also, Zombie fans, this will be one of the last times the Monroeville Mall will be laid out fairly similar to how it was in the original Dawn of the Dead...  Just thought I'd mention this since I know some folks like to stop by to check that out.  J.C. Penney where a lot of the action took place in the film, is being moved to a larger portion of the mall and things, so it won't look much like it used to before long. (not a convention thing I know, but it sort of draws folks in I've noticed, haha)

I'll be there, as well as PSWCS and 501st Legion's Garrison Carida.  The PSWCS and Garrison Carida are doing their Toys For Tots toy drive they do every year in December, and will need help making kids happy this holiday season with unopened toys (preferably Star Wars ones, but I think almost any unopened toy would be accepted).

I'll be wandering around some Friday and possibly other days, so I look forward to seeing any/all who attend.  Contact me privately here if you want to meet up and say hello, or possibly grab dinner after the show Friday!

Take care and see you there!  The December show is always the best!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: darth punkinhed on December 1, 2011, 06:21 PM
Alas, I won't be able to make the trip this year. Car issues. I was really looking forward to this years December show too. Not to mention a usual trip on Friday nights to the Barley House a few of us dealers do. At least I think that's what the place is called called.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 1, 2011, 08:02 PM
We'll miss ya man! :(
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 6, 2011, 01:48 PM
Another fun toy show...

I probably spent the least ever, at this show, but that doesn't mean the selection was bad.  Just that prices were too high for me. 

There were tons of new figures though...  I saw all the latest Clone Wars and Vintage there, and the prices...  hoo boy.  ::)  Way out of what I think they'll get for the most part, especially with 90% of those figures returning in 2012 and a movie focus/vintage continuing.

The Clone Wars ones I think are more likely to hold value.

The WHite Boba Fett was the talk of the show...  If you want one perfect, I think it's a perfectly viable option to just plunk down the $40 and get it that way.  Guys that are getting solid cases of him are getting him minty mint, plus they're having you avoid the form/upc hastle.

If all you want is that proto fett, that makes a lot of sense, ultimately.

I picked up a few loose army builders and a show without me buying ASP7 is like a day without sunshine!

James hooked me up with a sweet WM Rebel Pilot set for cheap. :)

I think my deal of the day though, was getting Lego mini Bossk for my Bossk collection, and getting him basically for free.  That made me happy all weekend long.

By the way...  Henry Winkler...  INSANELY nice.  Guy was late Friday, came out and was shaking hands, and chatting up with everyone who was in line to see him.  Sunday he was being just as chatty and friendly with his fans.  Maybe the nicest celeb I've ever seen at the show.

The Star Wars celebs seemed really friendly and happy to talk about their experiences as well...

Dominic always puts on a good show, so I was happy to be there again.  Looking forward to the next one!

BWW dinner was better this time by the way.  Our first experience there, Diane and I weren't impressed, but Friday was pretty good.  It was great that James came out too...  We really should drag his ass to Primanti's though, at some point. :)  Though it's not like he's far and doesn't really know about it anyway I suppose, haha.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 15, 2012, 09:26 PM
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) returns to the Monroeville Convention Center (minutes from downtown Pittsburgh) this March 2nd-4th!

The Star Wars guests include Billy Dee Williams, his son Corey (who played Klaatu, which I never knew), and Anthony Daniels on Saturday only!  That's a pretty decent Star Wars list!

The Hotel Room Block at the Doubletree is expiring so act soon to get the discounted rate.  It's a pretty nice hotel near the convention center, and puts you right in the heart of the area's dining and other features.

Also, Zombie fans, this will be one of the last times the Monroeville Mall will be laid out fairly similar to how it was in the original Dawn of the Dead...  Just thought I'd mention this since I know some folks like to stop by to check that out.  J.C. Penney where a lot of the action took place in the film, is being moved to a larger portion of the mall and things, so it won't look much like it used to before long. (not a convention thing I know, but it sort of draws folks in I've noticed, haha)

I'll be there, as well as PSWCS and 501st Legion's Garrison Carida.

I'll be wandering around some Friday and possibly other days, so I look forward to seeing any/all who attend.  Contact me privately here if you want to meet up and say hello, or possibly grab dinner after the show Friday with the other locals.  Always fun to have folks along from out of town!

Take care and see you there!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 3, 2012, 01:01 AM
Had fun at the show but didn't buy a lot...

Got two Rebel Honor Guards, a Saga Antilles (he's ok for cheap as a stand-in till Hasbro does a better Rebel Officer/Captain), another Death Star Gunner, and a POTJ Security Droid, all for $25.

Got an ASP-7 for $2, which keeps my streak of buying ASP-7 Droids at every Steel City Con going yet again.

Got an ASP-7 face and 2 Sandtrooper hovering droids for $1.

Didn't find cheap metal saber hilts but I'm not deterred.  Also never ever, ever, ever see BAD parts.  You'd think you'd see them, but no.

This show had a lot, but the prices weren't good and I'm not sure if I can make it back this weekend due to some obligations, but I had a good time.  James, wish we could have hung out man.

Modern is funny right now...  Some guys jumping ship on E1 figures like you wouldn't believe.  Prices super low...  Other guys thinking it's time to try and recoop their costs on that stuff that's now ancient, because they hope the movie I guess makes it worth more since it's back out in theaters.  I think the guys jumping ship are the smarter ones but that's just me.

Shocked to see people asking $5 or more for 2002 Saga figues.  That just perplexes me.  You can't give a lot of that away.

Saw almost nothing of Wave 11 Vintage stuff...  One guy had a complete set, and I think someone spilled water on them.  Weird though with all the sightings, but right now Pittsburgh doesn't seem to have much in the way of Wave 11 for anyone, even the dealers.

Oh, and WOW is the Starspeeder 1000 cool.  Saw one in person.  It's truly massive, and hopefully will be in my collection soon.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 2, 2012, 04:59 PM
End of the month and it's baaaaaaaaack....

Steel City Con returns.  :)

Never left empty handed and don't plan to again, but I'm kind of curious to see what dealers are doing during a price gouging era like this, and shorted product.  Methinks lots of $30 vintage figures.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: darth punkinhed on July 22, 2012, 01:56 PM
Once again I won't be able to attend. Hopefully though we'll be back in December.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 24, 2012, 06:14 PM
Bumpity bump...  This weekend. :)

Sorry you can't make it Charlie...

I'm not sure when or how long I'm going to be at the show this weekend, but I will be there at some point Friday and possibly other days.  I'm not sure how buying will go this time though.  Money's tight all around, the hobby's insanely expensive anymore...  And dealers seem to think they can get the outside cent on every item they have on their table, no matter how old and worthless it is.

It'll be interesting to see how this show goes...  I may take a bag of stuff along with me to sell even.  I usually don't do that, but this time around I'm thinking I might.

Sounding like dinner after the show is on, as always.  No James report?  Where are ya man!?  Or are you prepping for C6 instead?
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 31, 2012, 01:43 AM
I'm frankly shocked at how much I bought at this show...  I kinda went ape**** and shouldn't have, but there were a ton of good deals on figures that are fetching decent cash.

It's kind of funny what's getting priced higher now, and what isn't though.  There was a lot of stuff that are good figures by today's standards even, from older lines (2006+) that were great prices...

Yet if you went to lines like 2002/2003 you were seeing stuff way overpriced IMO.  You couldn't give a lot of that away.  It's like one last grab before they know it's going to be outdone with new figures or something.

Saw similar with E1 figures last December.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on September 25, 2012, 09:20 PM
Steel City Con returns December 7th, 8th, and 9th at the Monroeville Convention Center just minutes from downtown Pittsburgh.

Just announced in the last 12 hours or so is Peter Mayhew will be joining the already pretty long list of celebrity guests!  This is, I think, his 2nd appearance in Pittsburgh if I recall.  I know he was here once before a while back.  Nice guy to chat with too.

The December show is always the biggest so make plans and come hang out!  I'll be there probably one or two days that weekend, maybe all three.  Also I'm betting the PSWCS will be taking donations for their toy drive.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on September 26, 2012, 01:58 PM
Just migt see me waking around this sho as well!  ;)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on September 26, 2012, 02:35 PM
Wait...  is that...  wait...

Is that a Rasquatch?  Get the camera Fryer!!!!!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on October 5, 2012, 02:15 PM
Haha, yeah, I slowed down for a few years...wanted to pay the house off, pay off the car off, no debt, stashsome funds away... blah blah...now I can kinda relax and enjoy life a bit.  Enjoy a few things, no pressures.

I had to step away...when I saw Hasbro just rehashing and going after the secondary market, I had to take a breather.  Got tired of seeing the prices creep up on an item like an AT-AT, then a few months later seeing yet ANOTHER AT-AT rehashed for $130.  Drives me nuts.

Still grab some of the misc. oddball items,fill in some hls in the cllection, and "reeeally good deals" evey now and then, kept up with the comics, and a few figs here and there.

Also, since when did figures become $10 a pop?  Seems like last night they were only $6ea.  Kinda makes the guys that go out and clear the shelves think twice.  If they put a run of 10 figs out it used to run you about $60, now it will run you about $100.  Won't see too many folks grabbing 3-4 of the same fig and wiping the selves clean I can tell you that!  Plus, add to it the price of gas and a little bit in taxes now if someone wanted  to try and resell individual figs...heck you gotta get at least $20-$25 a pop just to break even.  Hahaha!

$40+ tax for a 5 pack of Ewoks...wow.





Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 3, 2012, 06:07 PM
Steel City Con is just over a month away!  Can't wait, as it's a pretty big show this go-round, as December often is "the big one". :)

http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/

Celebrity list was big right off the bat...

-Louis Gossett Jr.
-Elvira (schwing! Had a thing for her since I was a little kid...  I may actually be awe struck for once.)
-Sgt. Slaughter (hah!)
-Dwight Schultz
...and more!

And of course, Peter Mayhew will be there, and the 501st Garrison Carrida And PSWCS will be there taking toy donations (and the PSWCS will also be selling their 2012 Charity Medallion!), and have booths set up.

And, obviously I'll be there 2 or 3 days of the show as well if anyone's coming into the area and wants to get together.  Just PM me!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on November 7, 2012, 04:34 PM
I'm game!

I'm up for dinner Frday night.  Just let me know when and where! If the GF is up for it, I may bring her as well.

I'll be hitting the show on Sat. AM, and will be working the PA SW Collectors Society booth for a few hours.  Pimping some of the Yoda burn camp coins we have left.

It's nice not traveling all ver the freaking place..I can sit down and enjoy a few things finally.  This should be a fun show with the Disey excitement....lots to chat up.

Yes...Elvira...same.

Bob
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 7, 2012, 07:20 PM
Hey!  Backoff!  She's mine!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on November 14, 2012, 02:14 PM
Hey,

You ever pick a place for diner that Friday night?
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 14, 2012, 02:52 PM
Check the Pittsburgh section under our Mission Logs here.  I'm going to try for a headcount soon!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 20, 2012, 05:40 PM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/PittToyShowBanner.gif)
It's that time of year again...  Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) returns on December 7th, 8th, and 9th!  Will you be attending?  Here's some details you'll want to check out!

First, the convention is located at the Monroeville Convention Center, which is located off the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and is minutes on the Parkway East from downtown Pittsburgh in Monroeville, PA.

The Monroeville Mall is the filming location for the original Dawn of the Dead, and is right beside the Monroeville Convention Center.  It's a nice little attraction for zombie film fans who maybe want to check it out too.

There are several convenient hotels in the vicinity!

If you're planning on attending, it's highly recommended you  Buy A 3-Day Pass Early (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/admission2.asp), as it gets you early admission into the show, and you also get a goodie bag valued at more than the price of the early 3-day pass itself.  Hurry and order as time is running out!

The December show is always the biggest, and doors open Friday at 2 P.M.!  The show always has a varied guest list, and this one is no different.
 
Guest List:
&

For the Star Wars fans!

While Chewbacca himself is a great addition for the fans, there will also be members of the 501st Garrison Carida (http://501stgarrisoncarida.org/about/) on hand costuming and taking pictures with the fans!  They're also taking Star Wars Toy Donations they'll hand out at children's hospitals throughout the year!

Likewise, members of the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society (http://pswcs.com/) (including yours truly) will have a booth set up.  They'll be taking toy donations as well, and will also be selling their 2012 LFL sanctioned Charity Medallion at the show, which is for a very good cause.

The PSWCS membership are also planning to dine after the show Friday.  Contact me privately either on here, or at jmccracken@jedidefender.com, if you're interested in joining the dinner after the show Friday evening.  It's very close to the convention center so even if you're from out of town it's easy to get to!

Look forward to seeing you at another great Steel City Con![/list]
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 5, 2012, 08:09 PM
Really looking forward to dinner, and to the show.  Won;t be buying much, but you never know, usually walk out with a little something at each show.

Be good to see you again my man!  Been a while.

I'll have the "box 'O crap" to do some trading.  I'm hoping some folks bring the new Topps cards, I'm hoping to trade some of the misc small stuff I have to try and piece the set together.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 5, 2012, 08:17 PM
Looking forward to it too.  Bitner helped me get the reservations...  Should be fun!

Just hope I got enough seats incase extra wind up coming along.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 21, 2012, 01:39 PM
It was good to see eveyone this year.  Was able to hit up BWW with the PSWCS (how's that for using abbreviations?) Had some fun and some trades landed me the following:

* Some more Topps Galactic Files cards and a little bit closer to completing the collection. 
* A gammorean Guard- Thanks Jesse!
* A VC ARC TRooper
* A Club Fett poster auto'd by the artist at the show.
* A Mon Mothma Celebration auto's 8X10 to add to the 8x10 autograph wall at home. (already had Caroline's auto on the fig and poster, jut not on an 8X10.

Show was pretty good as it usually has been. Was able to snag:

* Some carded VC figs (some unpunched) for $5ea. including the Luke Lightsaber deleted scene.
*  A few more LE Silver base Attactix figs.  Not really actively looking for them, but over the years I have been able to grab a bunch of the silver base variations, so if I happen to see any in the clearance bins, or boxes at shows and conventions, I'll grab them.  Got about 4 of them for $2 total, not bad.
* That's about it.  GF grabbed some misc SW and superhero figs for the kids for Xmas.

As far as what SW was at the show...the vintage is becoming scarce, and the little there rends to be pretty pricey.  one of the Ohio guys sets up shop every year and is about the only reasonably priced when it comes to vintage SW.

POTF2, POTJ, EPI...all in a lot less quantities.   Used to find a ton of these in clearance bins/boxes for $2-$3ea. carded.  Now it's more like $5 and up.  Loose you used to be able to grab most for $1-$2, now it's more like $3 or $4ea.  So the early modern is getting a bit tougher to spot, and the prices seem to be slowly creeping up on those.

The recently released modern is rediculously priced.  $40-$50 for some of the very HTF modern figs, not a ton of them available, but enought that they shouldn't be that much.  The latest VC wave wasn't all over the place like I thought it would be, but most from that wave were $14 and up, with a coupld going as high as $40.

All and all a great show, lots of fun, good seeing everyone...mission accomplished!





Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on January 18, 2013, 03:51 PM
Dave Prowse is going to be signing at the April 5-7, 2013 Steel City con.  Details below:

http://www.steelcitycon.com/

I've seen him numerous times, and have a bunch of stuff autographed by him.  One thing to keep in mind, is that a lot of the original SW folks are getting up there in age.  You just never know when the last time will be that you can get an auto or one last photo op with some folks may be.

I bought a Deluxe Vader costume last month.  I may just bring the hemlmet and have hom sign it.

See you there!

Bob



Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 19, 2013, 02:55 AM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/PittToyShowBanner.gif)
It's that time of year again...  Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) returns on April 5th, 6th, & 7th!  Will you be attending?  Here's some details you'll want to check out!

First, the convention is located at the Monroeville Convention Center, which is located off the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and is minutes on the Parkway East from downtown Pittsburgh in Monroeville, PA.

The Monroeville Mall is the filming location for the original Dawn of the Dead, and is right beside the Monroeville Convention Center.  It's a nice little attraction for zombie film fans who maybe want to check it out too.

There are several convenient hotels in the vicinity!

If you're planning on attending, it's highly recommended you  Buy A 3-Day Pass Early (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/admission2.asp), as it gets you early admission into the show, and you also get a goodie bag valued at more than the price of the early 3-day pass itself.  Hurry and order as time is running out!

Just today they announced the Goodie Bag included with the 3-Day pre-order includes a Star Wars figure too, so makes it more worth it for the SW fans.

The guest list is growing again, but two big names for fans of LFL...
 
Guest List:
&

Dave Prowse is back, and that's awesome but now Karen Allen's doing shows so the Indy fans are going to be happy too.  There will also be members of the 501st Garrison Carida (http://501stgarrisoncarida.org/about/) on hand costuming and taking pictures with the fans!  They're also always taking Star Wars Toy Donations they'll hand out at children's hospitals throughout the year!

Likewise, members of the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society (http://pswcs.com/) (including yours truly) will have a booth set up.  They'll be taking toy donations as well, and will also be selling their 2012 LFL sanctioned Charity Medallion at the show, which is for a very good cause.

The PSWCS membership always dine after the show.  Contact me privately either on here, or at jmccracken@jedidefender.com, if you're interested in joining the dinner after the show, most likely Friday evening.  It's very close to the convention center so even if you're from out of town it's easy to get to!

Look forward to seeing you at another great Steel City Con![/list]
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on April 8, 2013, 12:58 AM
Another fantastic Steel City Con is in the bag for me...  A smaller turnout for the PA group on Friday but obligations are what they are.

I managed ANOTHER ASP-7 Droid thanks to some keen eyes helping me out.  Otherwise, the steak would've ended.  whew.

A fun day though.  Got some good deals...  Didn't see a lot on Sunday I wanted, kinda was being extra cheap this show for some reason.

Sophia from Walking Dead had a huge line on Friday.  Good for her...  It was good to see Dave Prowse making the rounds.  I'm curious to see if the show lines up some of the Clone Wars cast or other Star Wars celebs going forward.  Indiana Jones actors would be nice to see more of too now that Karen Allen's doing that circuit.

Overall, as always, a great show with great people...  The longer hours are a mixed bag for many.  They don't really affect me, but I heard good/bad feelings from vendors.

James, you're the man, and always good to see you.  I need to get you a Vinty list of what I'm after asap, haha.  Amanaman is tops on that list though.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 9, 2013, 02:14 AM
Once again, right around the corner, Pittsburgh's Steel City Con returns!  Check out www.SteelCityCon.com for details.

So far Jett Lucas and Tom Kane (Voice of Yoda on Clone Wars) are attending, along with the usual litany of celebs from wrestling, TV, movies and more. 

I'm kind of shocked at Jett Lucas doing the cons now...  I figured it wouldn't be his thing.

I'm excited for this show though, and hoping more Clone Wars voice talent make the trip out to shows in the future.  It's a nice new well to dip into. :)

Myself and other PSWCS members will be there...  Also 501st, Garrison Carrida is always there.  I hope the R2 Builders are too because for some reason (could it be the insanely awesome RC lifesize astromechs?) these guys are popular.

I'm excited though, and hope to find another ASP 7.  A cheap Fleet trooper or 10 wouldn't hurt me either but not expected. :(
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 28, 2013, 05:01 PM
Steel City Con was another rousing success...  :)  I blew a cool $60 first day on good deals.

Good seeing everyone local, as well as Chris and the guys from Sandtroopers.com were there.  A lot of new vendors this time I noticed.  Lot more out of staters...  Not any empty space now.  I guess tables sold out quickly.

I'm looking forward to December's show already!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 11, 2013, 03:23 PM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/PittToyShowBanner.gif)

It's that time of year again...  Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/) returns on December 6th, 7th, & 8th!  Will you be attending?  Here's some details you'll want to check out!

First, the convention is located at the Monroeville Convention Center, which is located off the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and is minutes on the Parkway East from downtown Pittsburgh in Monroeville, PA.

The Monroeville Mall is the filming location for the original Dawn of the Dead, and is right beside the Monroeville Convention Center.  It's a nice little attraction for zombie film fans who maybe want to check it out too.

There are several convenient hotels in the vicinity!

If you're planning on attending, it's highly recommended you  Buy A 3-Day Pass Early (http://www.pittsburghtoyshow.com/admission2.asp), as it gets you early admission into the show, and you also get a goodie bag valued at more than the price of the early 3-day pass itself.  Hurry and order as time is running out!

The December show is always the biggest!  Also, this year's show has expanded to both sides of the convention center, and includes so much more.  From costuming contests, to charity auctions, Car Show cars for photo ops, Artist's Alley, Celebrity Q&A's, and more!  The show is also expected to expand to discussion panels and more.  Steel City Con continues to grow every year.

The show always has a varied guest list, and this one is no different.
 
Guest List:
&

For the Star Wars fans!

While Kee Chan is signing for the first time in Pittsburgh and is a great addition, there will also be members of the 501st Garrison Carida (http://501stgarrisoncarida.org/about/) on hand costuming and taking pictures with the fans!  They're also taking Star Wars Toy Donations they'll hand out at children's hospitals throughout the year!

Likewise, members of the Pennsylvania Star Wars Collecting Society (http://pswcs.com/) (including yours truly) will also be in attendance at the show, roaming the halls looking for deals (and signing up new members).  Want to join?  Look for the PSWCS T-Shirts!  They're all over the place at the show!

The PSWCS membership are also planning to dine after the show Friday.  Contact me privately either on here, or at jmccracken@jedidefender.com, if you're interested in joining the dinner after the show Friday evening.  It's very close to the convention center so even if you're from out of town it's easy to get to!

Look forward to seeing you at another great Steel City Con!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on November 12, 2013, 12:39 PM
Always a great show with a strong SW presence. I'll be there with plenty of Vintage and Modern stuff so get there early for the best selection. I'm in the center of the venue with the large SABRES EDGE TOYS banner. Stop on out and say hey and see everyone there!


James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 12, 2013, 02:52 PM
I'm gonna have to check out that booth. :P

See ya that Friday James, looking forward to it as always!

If you've got some really busted up MLC-3's, lemme know!  Also still searching for that original Amanaman staff even if it's with a figure in less than hot condition.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on November 22, 2013, 12:27 PM
Gonna try and make it out, possibly Friday.  May just do dinner with te guys on Fri ad hit the show Sat.  ??? always a last min. decision.  Looking forward to another Star Wars autograph, and also yet another Walking Dead autograph on my original AMC Season 1 poster.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 4, 2013, 12:50 PM
We doing Brewstone again for dinner Fri night????

Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 4, 2013, 02:06 PM
No decisions been made but I'm fine with Brewstone cuz I want beer.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: bobafett14 on December 5, 2013, 03:12 PM
Sounds good to me.  Kip mentioned Brewstone as well, so I guess that's what I'm pushing for.  I'll be at the show in the afternoon.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 5, 2013, 04:40 PM
I'm aiming for 2...  gotta work a little in the morning/early afternoon and clean up at Diane's before I head over.  Looks like weather might get funky for the ride home.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 5, 2013, 08:47 PM
Anyone worried about weather?
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 9, 2013, 03:44 AM
Well ultimately weather killed it for me since freezing rain hit right when I was to be heading to the show Friday afternoon...  On my way home from work though, I avoided an accident on some fresh ice, so I can't exactly say I felt bad for not coming out Friday like I planned.  :-X  That stuff hit exactly as they predicted and treating didn't seem to help it.  Weather's the only part of the December show I can't stand, since it's unpredictable generally.

I wound up making it Saturday.  I got to hang at James' booth a little while, but that was the extend of my visiting with anyone as I didn't see anyone else there Saturday while I walked around.   :-\  That's my really only regret and/or disappointment with this show.

When they said they were doubling the size of the show, they weren't kidding...

Saturday was PACKED with wall-to-wall nerd.

The main hall was simply jammed with people...  Parking was, simply put, a nightmare at this show compared to any other I've ever attended too.  I was really kind of disappointed in that respect as well, actually, however it didn't dampen my spirits...  It was what it was.  I just was wondering if my (IE: Diane's) car would be there when I left.

The show's toy hall seemed a little more full this time around, and I found some good deals again...  Vintage Collection figures for 3/$25 at one table and they were selling some quality figures for that price too like Fleet Troopers, INC, and more.  I felt that was a steal at the show's normal mark-up on TVC figures...  I'd take $8 RFT's all day long.

I got a 5/$20 deal on some old ROTS and Saga figures as well...  Grabbed a Tanus Spijek, Capt Antilles (2003), Blue Senate Guard, Wookiee Warrior, and Madine for $20...  That's all army building/customizing fodder there, so I was pretty pleased with that purchase.

I saw some pretty goofy prices on some newer figures...  NOT a lot of Black Series sitting around, and what was available was mostly older Wave 1 stuff with overpriced tags on it (Padme and Luke for $15 or more?  Maybe in September but not now!).

I didn't see much 6" or 4" from Black Series really...

Noticing more guys getting into gutting Legos for mini-figures.

Vintage Star Wars was, again, in shorter supply...  It becomes less every show it seems, and James always appears to lead the way in both quality and quantity.

Felt bad for the NotLD guys being stuck in the toy area rather than the "Celebrity Hall" area.  They look like someone wheels them there and drops them off.

I like the "Con" feel they're going for...  Panels are interesting.  I'm thinking that's something that could really expand into something great in the future, as there are obviously some pretty knowledgeable collectors around the area.

I saw a much more diverse crowd too...  A lot more women seemed to be in attendance.  I think the expansion had to have been a success from what I was seeing...  The hours have to be hell on the dealers though.

I didn't get to snap a pic of George Takei as I had hoped...  :(  Love that guy!  He looked as happy as I've seen any celebrity at that show, ever, and he had a huge line of people to see him.

I've got a busy couple months coming up but I hope to see some of you guys soon, even if it's just to grab some beer and conversation at BWW's or something.

Looking forward to the next show already!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 13, 2014, 03:00 AM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NewBanners/013SCC_NewLogo_TN.jpg)Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (www.SteelCityCon.com) returns to the Monreoville Convention Center just East of downtown Pittsburgh, on April 11th, 12th, & 13th!

Steel City Con has grown, and doubled in size recently, and it has so much to offer that it's much more than just a toy show now...  There are costume contests, gaming tournaments, celebrities, special guests, panels, and more. 

This show features some special sci-fi guests for April as well!

Star Trek: The Next Generation fans will be excited to see Jonathan Frakes (Cmdr. Riker, and Brent Spiner (Lt. Cmdr. Data) both are attending!  This is a first for the show, and I actually have to say as a fan of the show I'm pretty star-struck to see these two...  I'm excited that they're attending!

Star Wars fans aren't let down though, as Demot Crowley (General Crix Madine) and Femi Taylor (Oola) will also be in attendance, flying in from England for the show!  These are pretty special guests, and I'm excited to see both attending!

Other guests include Lee Majors, George "The Animal" Steele, local legend Bruno Sammartino and continuing a new tradition of always having a Walking Dead actor, Travis Love (The Governor's gunman Shumpert, who escaped with Martinez), are all in attendance!  It's an ever-growing show I'm always excited to attend.

3 Day Passes go fast now, and get you priority seating at events, and into the show earlier than non pass holders.

December's show was packed, and I'm sure April's will be as well with hopefully better weather!

As always I'll be there, and I'd really love to see some Jedi Defender fans there as well!  Hit me up if you're attending, and we can hang out after for some dinner with members of the PSWCS.

If you have ANY questions on attending you can contact the show itself or you can contact me as well.  I'm always happy to act as an ambassador for the city and the area.

www.SteelCityCon.com
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on February 24, 2014, 02:17 AM
Bump

Dealer and Artists tables are selling out FAST, even with the show doubling in size...  Bigger size seems to mean the crowds are just bigger too, so if you're wanting a table get in on that action now!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on March 12, 2014, 09:25 PM
Another reminder for all our readers!

(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NewBanners/013SCC_NewLogo_TN.jpg)
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (www.SteelCityCon.com) returns to the Monreoville Convention Center just East of downtown Pittsburgh, on April 11th, 12th, & 13th!

Steel City Con has grown, and doubled in size recently, and it has so much to offer that it's much more than just a toy show now...  There are costume contests, gaming tournaments, celebrities, special guests, panels, and more. 

This show features some special sci-fi guests for April as well!

Star Trek: The Next Generation fans will be excited to see Jonathan Frakes (Cmdr. Riker, and Brent Spiner (Lt. Cmdr. Data) both are attending!  This is a first for the show, and I actually have to say as a fan of the show I'm pretty star-struck to see these two...  I'm excited that they're attending!

Star Wars fans aren't let down though, as Demot Crowley (General Crix Madine) and Femi Taylor (Oola) will also be in attendance, flying in from England for the show!  These are pretty special guests, and I'm excited to see both attending!

They're a huge get for the show, since they're coming in from England for it.  Very nice!

Other guests include Lee Majors, George "The Animal" Steele, local legend Bruno Sammartino and continuing a new tradition of always having a Walking Dead actor, Travis Love (The Governor's gunman Shumpert, who escaped with Martinez), are all in attendance!  It's an ever-growing show I'm always excited to attend.

3 Day Passes go fast now, and get you priority seating at events, and into the show earlier than non pass holders.

December's show was packed, and I'm sure April's will be as well with hopefully better weather!

As always I'll be there, and I'd really love to see some Jedi Defender fans there as well!  Hit me up if you're attending, and we can hang out after for some dinner with members of the PSWCS.

If you have ANY questions on attending you can contact the show itself or you can contact me as well.  I'm always happy to act as an ambassador for the city and the area.

www.SteelCityCon.com

I'll be attending as will members of the PSWCS throughout the weekend...  I have a few Vintage wants I'm going to be tracking down this show now that I put my loose figure collection out.  I need some upgrades and a Wicket for some reason.

It's been ages since I bought a Vintage figure it seems!  Need a new Leia for sure. :(

This show's always great for Star Wars...  Vintage has dwindled but there are gems, always.  Modern is more dominant and I always walk out with deals there!

Look forward to going, and hopefully seeing some of you at the show!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on April 4, 2014, 04:29 AM
Bumpity bump...  are ya ready?  Next Friday, another Steel City Con in Pittsburgh.  Can't wait since weather wrecked my trip with the December show (and it's always the best one, to me  :-\).

Anxious to get out and see everyone though, and looking forward to the whole weekend!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: sabresedge on April 4, 2014, 12:47 PM
I'll be there with 7 tables packed with vintage, vintage, vintage. Always a good time and the show is now the largest toy show in PA with BOTH sides of the convention center. Hope to see everyone there and stop by and say hi!



James
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Muftak on April 17, 2014, 02:12 PM
Keep forgetting to post about my trip to PA last weekend to hit this con. Thanks Jesse for getting the word out here about it. My wife and I had been looking for a fun day trip minus the kids, and she has a huge crush on Brent Spiner so this worked out great for me.

We came our on Saturday and unfortunately missed the TNG Q&A due to the huuuuuuuuuge line out front, haven't seen anything like that at a con before! Wow! It was nice of the cosplayers to work the line though, kept things fun.

Once inside we had a good time. I didn't find anything on my short list, but I did see some Gentle Giant jumbo vintage figures for the first time in person...specifically rocket firing Boba and the Gam Guard. I didn't "get" these things before holding em in my hand, but that Fett is really a piece of art and I may be picking these up in the future. The show was a great place to see stuff like that, and stuff I hadn't seen for years. As a loose collector, seeing all those 90s and 00s packages really took me back. Never mind all the vintage...

It was just a good fun day. I hadn't been to any cons for 10 years and it was nice to be back, and the bonus was my wife had a fun time too. I didn't have to feel guilty that she was humoring me!

Thanks again Jesse for pointing out the show!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on April 17, 2014, 07:33 PM
I hope you had a good time here man...  How far was the drive?

If I'd known you were coming I'd have tried to meet up with you...  Or at least pointed you to some good places to go eat and try while you're here.  That's 50% of any trip for me is getting to try unique places from where I live, haha.

The PA group did a big meeting Friday, since that seems to work for everyone for the most part.  Lots of people, which was fun.

It was a great show...  Brent Spiner was out shopping just roaming the crowd and was behind us and kind of nodded our way since we were clearly noticing who he was, haha.  Seems like a nice guy.  I missed the ST Q&A too, and wish I hadn't. :(  I couldn't be there for it till it was over.

I hope you had a good time man, it's always fun knowing people are coming in from all over for the show. 
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Muftak on April 19, 2014, 06:11 PM
Believe me, it was more fun than I expected and enough to recharge my batteries for the week so far.

We live just south of Cleveland so it's basically a straight 2 hour shot on 76 to visit Pittsburgh. You have the closest Ikea so this wasn't even our first day trip out.

And I didn't announce the intention to come because my wife was going round and round about leaving the kids 2 hours away. I was ready to cancel at any point and ready to leave at a moment's notice, so I didn't want to ditch on you or leave you hanging. As it turned out she loved it and had a great time too.

I'm the same way on food though, I was pushing for Primanti Bros but we were pretty beat afterward and settled for the Olive Garden that was right outside the convention center.  Left me with a good excuse to go back.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on April 19, 2014, 08:14 PM
There is a Primantis right there too.  Walking distance of that Olive Garden really just up a light or two.  Any time you have free time when you come in for the show let me know! :)
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 8, 2014, 03:05 AM
Bumpity bump.

(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NewBanners/013SCC_NewLogo_TN.jpg)
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (www.SteelCityCon.com) returns to the Monreoville Convention Center just East of downtown Pittsburgh, on August 8th, 9th, & 10th!

Steel City Con has grown, and doubled in size recently, and it has so much to offer that it's much more than just a toy show now...  There are costume contests, gaming tournaments, celebrities, special guests, panels, and more. 

The show has a pretty big celeb list, and they've wrangled another Star Trek: The Next Generation celeb with Levar Burton for the first time.  Pretty awesome...  I was really kind of star truck by seeing Jonathan Frakes and Brent Spiner actually.  The Star Wars celebs don't even get me as much as those guys did.

Buuuuuuuuuuuuuttttttttttttt, Billy Dee Williams is returning to the show in August, and it's always cool to see him.  He was a pretty nice guy when I met him last time too.  Wonder if he'll get pestered about what he's doing for Rebels since he leaked his involvement in some capacity?

Penny Marshall is attending too, which kind of surprised me...  She doesn't strike me as someone who would go signing autographs considering everything she's accomplished in Hollywood.

3 Day Passes go fast now, and get you priority seating at events, and into the show earlier than non pass holders.

The show's spaced out a bit from SDCC now too as that was a conflict in the past.  Smart thinking on the promoter's part IMO.

As always I'll be there, and I'd really love to see some Jedi Defender fans there as well!  Hit me up if you're attending, and we can hang out after for some dinner with members of the PSWCS if you feel like, or just chat a bit and say hey.

If you have ANY questions on attending you can contact the show itself or you can contact me as well.  I'm always happy to act as an ambassador for the city and the area.  I love telling people where they should try eating while they're in town. :)

www.SteelCityCon.com

I'll be attending as will members of the PSWCS throughout the weekend...  I have a few Vintage wants I'm going to be tracking down this show now that I put my loose figure collection out.  I need some upgrades and a Wicket for some reason.

I'm still tracking a few things down since the last show actually.

This show's always great for Star Wars...  Vintage, I felt, made a bit of a comeback at the last show in April...  Saw a good deal of good deals, as it were.  Quality pieces for better than Ebay prices.

Look forward to going, and hopefully seeing some of you at the show!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 28, 2014, 08:29 PM

(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NewBanners/013SCC_NewLogo_TN.jpg)
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (www.SteelCityCon.com) returns to the Monreoville Convention Center just East of downtown Pittsburgh, on August 8th, 9th, & 10th!

Steel City Con returns in just under 2 weeks.  You coming to the show?  It's not just SDCC with a monopoly on good cons this time of year!  I'm always excited to see the vendors coming back with the exclusives and who, if any, lucked out.

It also lets you know who actually attended from the NE that set up here.

I'll be there, as will many PSWCS members, and I'd love to say hello if you're attending and want to meet up just to shoot the breeze a little bit!  Hit me up, but either way you'll want to make it as the Steel City Con continues to grow, year in and year out!
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 24, 2014, 04:44 AM
Steel City Con returns in a couple weeks to Pittsburgh...  Anyone JD attending outside of the normal locals I know going?  I always look forward to the December show the most, aside from possible weather hiccups. 

If you're attending, hit us up!  Would love to say hi, maybe grab a bite to eat after the show too.  The locals always try to do dinner and beer afterwards.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on December 3, 2014, 02:02 AM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NewBanners/013SCC_NewLogo_TN.jpg)
Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (www.SteelCityCon.com) returns to the Monreoville Convention Center just East of downtown Pittsburgh, on THIS weekend, December 5th, 6th, and 7th.  Attending?  Peter Mayhew is!  And the Star Trek DS9/TNG guests keep rolling in too.

I'm hoping to see some locals and some not-so-locals as always.  :)  Hope some of you guys can make the trip sometime.  The December show is always the biggest and a nice time of year to visit the city in general if you wanted to.
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 3, 2015, 02:23 AM
(http://www.jedidefender.com/jmccracken/NewBanners/013SCC_NewLogo_TN.jpg)
It's hard to believe it's already that time again!  Pittsburgh's Steel City Con (www.SteelCityCon.com) returns to the Monreoville Convention Center just East of downtown Pittsburgh, on August 7th to 9th!  Just a month away from another great show.

Matthew Wood is the Star Wars guest this time around, and that's pretty awesome because I think he was only here once before and I completely missed him for some reason or another.  He's a pretty interactive guy, so that's always fun.

Also the PSWCS is holding its annual Summer Social in Pittsburgh this year, and as such, they've scheduled it the same weekend as Steel City Con, so this one is going to be even bigger than usual for myself and the guys in the PSWCS state-wide.  I don't make many of the socials since they spread around the state in a rotation, but I do try to make this one and the Penn State one if I am able to make the trip to State College.

I'm hoping to keep my ASP-7 streak going, though I gotta admit, ASP-7 droids aren't as common as they once were.  It's possibly the dumbest streak in collecting, so let's all cross our fingers on this one!  And that it's under $5.  It should be.

And yes, ASP-7 has a friggin' figure!  Who knew right?

But aside from that I have my sights set on a few particulars this time around, and am hoping to snatch up a couple of things for cheap as well.  I always manage to spend more than I budgeted.

IF you're coming in for the show, you'll want to pre-order your tickets online.  Trust me, you'll just want to do this.

And if you are in town from out of the area hit me up and we'll grab a beer after on Friday maybe?  I'll be there for sure and am looking forward to another great SCC!  :D
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on November 26, 2015, 07:20 PM
Another www.SteelCityCon.com is here in just a week.  Anxious to get back to the show.  Last time I was pretty sick...  This time, not sure, haha.  Anyway, if you're planning to attend from out of town, feel free to hit me up as I should be there!

John Ratzenberger is at this show but not really advertising him as the Star Wars part (obviously?), but I know lots of folks going just to get his autograph.

The show's cos-play is getting better every time I've noticed too.  Last time I was there, there was an amazing 3PO costume that just blew my mind.  It was perfect.

And if all works as planned, I'll get another ASP-7 of course.  :-X
Title: Re: Pittsburgh's "Steel City Con" Toy & Collectible Show
Post by: Jesse James on July 13, 2016, 12:08 AM
And rolling back into town in a month is another www.SteelCityCon.com to Pittsburgh.  They've sort of tried to move their show time around San Diego Comic-Con I've noticed, so this show is now August 12th-14th this year.  I'm sure it makes booking celebs difficult.

If you plan to attend, they actually sold out of 3Day badges already, and now just have individual day passes available...  So get thee to the pre-order if you want to visit town.

A ton of horror guests this show, and Christopher Lloyd which surprised me that he does shows now.  I figured he just sat back and chilled.