The Brill Report

MITCHELL REPORT WILL AFFECT THE HOBBY

VOLUME 1, NUMBER 177

**HOT**BUTTON**STORY**

(LOCK OF JOHN LENNON'S HAIR WITH AUTOGRAPH FETCHES $48,000)

** MITCHELL REPORT WILL AFFECT THE HOBBY

** STEINER BETTING BALLS ON STEROIDS

** EBAY ORDERED TO PAY $30 MILLION IN SUIT

** WATCHDOG SAYS EBAY DOING BETTER

** MATTEL LOOKING FOR SUIT DISMISSAL ** CARDS FOR KIDS PROGRAM **

** TOPPS VAULT OFFERS NEW BOWMAN ** JAKKS PETS & TOYS R US **

DETAILS ON THESE AND OTHER STORIES IN TBR: THE BRILL REPORT

                                  ============================

(EDITORS NOTE: Due to the holiday season TBR will only be published on Mondays until December 31. The mid-week report will resume again on January 3, 2008. If there is breaking or important news to report we will update the newsletter and send you an email. If you are not on our email update list and would like to be, please send us your email at info@kckings.com.

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(MITCHELL REPORT WILL HAVE AN AFFECT ON THE HOBBY)

(TBR WILL UPDATE WITH KEY NAMES OF PLAYERS DURING THE DAY)

With the Major League Baseball George Mitchell Report out today (Monday) dealers are holding their collective breaths. The report, ordered by MLB, named 75 players including the bomb shells of Roger Clemens, Andy Pettitte and Miguel Tejada. The report is 409 pages and details players who the author (former Senator George Mitchell) gathered evidence regarding drug or steroid use.

The report said "each of the 30 clubs had someone" who was involved in the use of performance enhancing drugs. The report blamed everyone from MLB to the players to their Union, the MLBPA.

The release could not come at a worse time for the trading card industry and the Hobby itself. At a time when heroes are needed as sales slump and collectors back off, this report could have a powerful effect. It won't have the impact of the mid-1990's Baseball Strike had, but it will hurt.

Clemens the 300 game winner and Pettitte who has been a New York favorite, are easily the biggest names. Tejada was traded earlier this week by the Orioles to the Astros. Mitchell suggested there be no penalties except where it effects the integrity of the game, telling the gang of reporters he recommended giving the players "a fresh start."

If players who are idols and icons in certain cities are named as users and cheats, the impact on the local card market could be strong. What parent will encourage their children to collect the trading cards of a player or players who are named in such an indictment as cheaters? The Hobby itself will take a blow.

While MLB and the MLBPA have made unprecedented pitches to kids through the shops to get more kids to collect, labeling these kids' favorite players as cheaters could turn them off forever. At a time when the hobby is faltering for a lot of reasons, this could be a severe blow.

(Jason Giambi already had his day.)

What the Mitchell Report details and who it details is of paramount interest to hobby shop owners in every major league city. More so perhaps in towns around America without an afflicted franchise. These stores draw a wider base of collectors simply because there is no local premium. The smaller stores can't afford another hit and the Mitchell Report could deliver a strike out certainly.

"I have to take the other side of the hobby as I don't think the report will impact baseball cards much at all," said dealer Jeff DeGraw of Matt's Sportscards in Joliet, Illinois. "Most people don't care anymore that they (the players) have been widely used."

DeGraw added hobby store owners have a responsibility.

"The shop owners can use this to their advantage or just have another thing to sit around and complain about," he added. "It will make for great conversations around hobby stores."

Others named in the report include Eric Gagne, Paul Lo Duca, Brian Roberts, Gary Mathews Jr., Troy Glaus, Gary Sheffield, both Giambi brothers, Barry Bonds, David Segui, Denny Neagle, Ken Camaniti, Mark McGwire, John Rocker, Matt Williams, Kevin Brown, Mo Vaughn, Glenallen Hill, Chuck Knoblauch, Hal Morris, Todd Hundley, Benito Santiago with 75 players named in all. For the list you can check ESPN. Most are out of baseball, many were near career minor leaguers.

                                 ======================

(STEINER HAD MITCHELL REPORT SALE)

Steiner Sports has apologized for it's special Mitchell Report Offer earlier this week. In an email statement the company said it didn't mean to offend anyone.

"Steiner Sports would like to offer its sincerest apologies to those who were offended by our George Mitchell email special that was sent out last night.  The investigation into performance-enhancing drugs in Major League Baseball is a serious matter that we fully support.  The special that was announced is now expired but we will honor the offer to those of you who chose to participate." 

Steiner Sports had tried to capitalize on the release of the Mitchell Report.

"Tomorrow, December 13, George Mitchell will release his greatly anticipated report about the use of steroids in Major League Baseball," the Steiner email solicitation states. "It is rumored the report will include the names of 60-80 past and current players who are linked to steroids."

(How many $50 Gifts will Steiner give out?)

The ad goes on to make this special offer; last night until Midnight EST, if dealers purchased any baseballs and that player's name showed up on the Mitchell Report, the company would give the buyer "a FREE on-line Gift Certificate."

The ad showed a sealed envelope proclaiming "Top Secret."

                              =======================

(JUDGE ORDERS EBAY TO PAY $30 MILLION IN "BUY IT NOW" CASE)

A Federal judge ordered eBay to pay $30 to MercExchange which developed the "Buy It Now" technology so popular on the eBay auction site. MercExchange is a small Virginia company which sued eBay over the technology claiming eBay stole it. The case ended up in the Supreme Court after ME won a judgment from a lower court.

The lower court actually reduced the settlement to $25 million but with interest it climbed back to $30 million. ME wanted to keep eBay from using the technology and wanted licensing fees. The small company in the years since the suit was filed, fell from over 40 employees to just three. The case will likely be tied up for a while however.

"We are disappointed with the courts order and we plan to appeal it," said eBay in a statement.

A Federal Court jury handed ME the victory back in 2003 but appeals kept it going and will likely keep it going for a time longer.

                                           =================

(MATTEL SEEKING SUIT DISMISSAL STATING PLAINTIFF IS IMAGINATIVE)

Mattel claims the man who is suing the toymaker over an idea for toys he claims he came up with is asking the courts to dismiss it out of hand. The company says Joseph Ottis is "a man with a colorful past, questionable business history and an active imagination."

(Mattel Planet Pals not like Ottis says Company)

Ottiss claims Mattel stole his toy ideas for Planet Pals and Earth Rangers. Mattel said concepts cannot be copyrighted.

"On both the facts and the law Mr. Ottis claim of copyright infringement is without merit," said Mattel in a statement.

Even so, the characters created by Ottiss can be seen across Greek Mythology according to the Mattel.

                                            =================

(EBAY WATCH DOG SEEMS SOME IMPROVEMENT IN FRAUD ARENA)

eBay is getting better at policing and removing items of suspected fraud according to one expert in the industry, but wait, he isn't finished with the day so far.

"I have to admit eBay has been doing a very good job lately of responding to my reports to them on auction I know contain fake autograph items," said eBay watch dog Chris Williams. "Although what I forward to them is a very, very small percentage of the fraud on eBay they have been taking action against sellers of fake memorabilia."

Williams does dozens of quick opinions through eBay for forgeries each week and sends the results to eBay. Sometimes he says it seems as if it lands on deaf ears.

A day later however, as the holidays near, it seems as if the forgers are back in front.

"I thought eBay deserved some credit after I had been bashing them all these years," said Williams. "But still just last night I was submitting searches on eBay for Mickey Mantle and eBay is flooded with forgeries of 'The Mick,' especially forged photographs and this entire scenario is happening all over."

Williams says he realizes Mantle is always going to be a hot player. Which is certainly true this time of year and with the suffering economy for collectibles Mantle is an easy target for the forgers who also need the money.

                                            =================

(ANNUAL CARDS FOR KIDS PROGRAM LOOKING FOR DONATIONS)

James McClellan of Colville, Washington is up for another round of "Cards for Kids." Each year for the past seven years, McClellan gathers cards and supplies to distribute to children who are in the hospital for the holidays. As a child McClellan spent time over the holidays under hospital care and says he enjoyed the kindness of others who touched him.

"I have distributed cards to children who are unable to enjoy the holidays because of illness or injury that requires them to be in the hospital or long term care facilities," he wrote to TBR. "I have made it my mission to bring happiness to kids who were in the position I was once long ago."

Any concerns or questions should be addressed to McClellan at www.igotmilk23@hotmail.com or by writing him at 890 South Alder, Colville, WA 99114.

                                           ==================

(TALKIN' SPORTS ICED IN AND OFF)

Randy Cook hopes to be in studio with his Talkin' Sports hobby show sometime today. The storms in the mid-West kept the widely heard Cook off the air.

"Been battling an ice storm here in the Midwest and been unable to do my show," Cook emailed TBR.

He was expected to be back up sometime today at Talkin Sports 2000. Cook, a long time hobbyist can be heard daily on the live Internet radio show.

                                           ==================

(LENNON'S HAIR BRINGS $48,000 WITH AUTOGRAPH)

Experts thought a lock of John Lennon's hair in a book he signed would bring a few thousand dollars; certainly not more than $8,000. Some lucky collector or investor paid $48,000 for the auction item sold as part of a Beatles collection at Gorringes in London.

The auction was part of the personal collection put together by the Fab Four's hairdresser, Betty Glasow. She recently decided to put the items up for auction because she wanted fans to have them and they weren't doing her any good sitting in a drawer. The money isn't bad either as a George Harrison autograph from the collection sold for another $13,000.

              ==================

(TOPPS VAULT OFFERS 2007 BOWMAN 1 OF 1 CARDS ON EBAY)

The Topps Vault is one of the richest treasure chests in the hobby. The Vault, which sells Topps goods on eBay is now offering more current items. Previously the company offered proof versions and artist renditions of retired players.

Now the company is offering Bowman Heritage blank back 1 of 1 cards. Calling them "First Edition Cards," they are limited to one of each of the more than 300 cards in the series.

(One of the slabbed 1/1 blank back cards.)

"The exclusive offer only available through eBay features Limited Edition blank back cards created for each base card from the 2007 Bowman Heritage Baseball Card Set," the site stated. "Each card is encapsulated and graded Authentic by Beckett Grading Services."

Topps routinely offers older versions of anything it seems is laying around the office from press plates to cards which were used to study before making other cards for the coming season.

               ==================

(CHAOTIC GOES NATIONAL RETAIL)

Hobby stores got the Chaotic Game launch in October and now it's time for the National Retail market to get their fare shine. The highly successful game from 4Kids Entertainment is played with cards and with an Internet boost. Now the TCG launches nationwide at the mall retail level.It will be live December 15. Since October over 600,000 Chaotic Game cards have been registered on-line.

"We are well positioned to follow up on our successful comic and hobby launch of the Chaotic Trading Card Game with the next step of our expanded weekend roll-out to the major malls nationwide," said Bryan Gannon, CEO of Digital Games which developed the program. "Collectors and gamers alike are enthusiastically embracing Chaotic as the next hot trading card and on-line game experience."

Each card is imprinted with a code which enables the user to upload and trade their cards as well as do battle with other players.

                                          ==================

(JAKKS AND TOYS R US HOOK UP FOR PETS)

JAKKS Pacific has had a strong recent history with the pet toy and accessories world and it's any body's guess what these items are doing in Toys R Us, but JAKKS officials say it is only natural. The company is placing dog toys and treats into the more upscale toy stores.

In the mix is a line of doggy chews, clothing, beds, collars and more. JAKKS developed a Spider Man collar and dog clothiers under a license with Marvel.

"We are very excited to embark on this pet partnership with Toys R Us," said Tony Lawlor, Senior VP of Marketing for JAKKS Pets. "Toys R Us is the premier destination for toys and baby products and now families can also purchase fun, kid friendly pet products at their local Toys R Us Store."

The items will be produced under the AKC Junior and Totally My Pet brands.

                                   ==================

FEEDBACK MIXED ON UPPER DECK PARODY CARD

Volume 1, Number 176

**HOT**BUTTON**STORY**

(HOT ITEM ON EBAY; THE HILLARY NUTCRACKER !!)

** HOBBY REACTS TO UD & BUYSNER CARD

** EISNER TALKS ABOUT THE FUTURE

** RACE USED LUG NUTS BACK/15 YEARS LATER

** EBAYS HOT 2007 LIST

** ANOTHER TOY RECALL

DETAILS ON THESE AND OTHER STORIES IN TODAY'S TBR: THE BRILL REPORT

EDITORIAL COMMENT: SHAME ON YOU UPPER DECK

                                          ========================
(HOBBY REACTION MIXED TO UD PARODY OF EISNER CARD)

As the prices realized drop on eBay for the Upper Deck infamous "Michael Buysner" card from Upper Deck, hobbysts are speaking out and, about the move by Upper Deck to parody rival Michael Eisner. The card started popping out of Upper Deck Sweet Spot Signatures Tins last week. The cards were not well accepted and upon learning of the situation Major League Baseball told UD it wanted the cards recalled. UD has issued a recall letter.

(The UD Buysner Card in all it's infamy.)

We spoke to several in the hobby about their reaction to the move by UD after losing out on Topps to Eisner. At first there was outrage but some thought it was a brilliant move.

"I loved the thinking of the UDC team and big balls by Richard (McWilliam) to put fun back into the trading card business," said Tony Loiacono, former UD vice-president and current owner of Heads N Tails. "This creative approach added vitality to the 'soft' trading card market."

Loiacono, known for his own creativity, said this could offer a fun battle royale.

"Eisner's team could get creative too -- having fun is where it started, collectability without a jersey card or a relic," he added. "I hope MLB lets this batter have a chance to round second."

Others were not so kind.

(The card back is unflattering as well.)

"Are you kidding me, this sounds like something a child would do (Buysner card)?" Shouted Bob Cosner, formerly of Bob's Baseball Cards & Games in Des Moines, Iowa. "I can't believe something of this nature just slipped through the cracks and actually made it to printing and packaging."

Cosner said it sounds just like something UD would do and why he feels trust is an issue when dealing with UD.

"This shows UD is way out of control," he added. "I have been suspicious of UD ever since that "bad" cut situation with SP Legendary Cuts a few years ago."

Upper Deck at that time it was learned had inserted several forged autographs into the Legendary Cuts product. They offered to replace any that were bad and did so upon request.

"I think it was totally inappropriate, way over the top," cited one direct account.

(UD CEO McWilliam, out of the country during the flap)

"Totally childish, like something a pre-teen would do when he didn't get his way, a way of acting out," said another.

Still other dealers said "if it was meant to spur sales of a lackluster product, then it did do that. We did have some guys cracking the tins hoping to get one of these cards."

The first one sold on eBay for $310, basically the retail price of three tins/packs of SSS. They have since fallen in price now there are a few out in the market place. It however has NOT spurred the wholesale price of the product. Normally in a case such as this the BUY prices from dealer to dealer would spike. It hasn't seemed to happen just yet. Of course the product has not dried up on the secondary market either.

Major League Baseball was not happy and moved quickly to get UD to perform a recall. If a violation of the license is cited a fine could be levied. Meanwhile Topps is refusing comment on the situation for now and Eisner's own team of PR people haven't responded, nor has the MLB Players Association.

Another dealer called it "insulting" while more than one called for MLB to rip the license from Upper Deck and give it back to Donruss/Playoff. The DPL license was taken away when MLB and MLBPA decided to reduce the card manufacturer market to two; Upper Deck and Topps. We will see what action is taken next.

                                          ========================

(EISNER SPEAKS OUT ABOUT TOPPS THE ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY)

Michael Eisner is not speaking to the hobby just yet, but he is speaking to the mainstream media about THE Hobby. Eisner told the Indianapolis Star he really is going to try to turn Topps into a multi-media company where Bazooka Joe can not only have his own Internet show, he could also be reaching out to others in movies, webisodes and new media technology.

"I'm not going to say it's going to be the next Raiders of the Lost Ark but that would be our goal," Eisner said in a story reported on www.Indystar.com.

He wants to turn the company into a Sports Entertainment Brand.

"There is no reason why there can't be Topps movies, Topps Internet, Topps Television, Topps mini-series and Topps publications," he added.

Eisner has dealt with movie hits such as "The Mighty Ducks" and "Angels in the Outfield," so why not "Star Warz," "Sponge Bob Square Pants," all of which Topps has licensing rights for. It sounds as if Eisner wants the guys at Topps to be more creative.

In the same right Eisner says the other Topps intriguing business is WizKids which has games such as Mech Warrior, and again why not, didn't Transformers set the movie and marketing world on fire enough to get them a return on their investment? Then came the holidays, mega toys and more. But Joe is still the key.

"I'm hoping that Bazooka Joe has that same little piece of your brain, or somebody's brain," said Eisner. "And if it doesn't fit it will just be a good movie, and we'll create a new emotion around it."

(Michael Eisner taking on a big task with big plans at the former Topps Company)

Eisner, successful at Paramount and Disney has his work cut out for him. However he hopes with the iconic nature of Joe, not unlike Mickey (Mouse that is) people will clamor for him just as well.

For now however Eisner says he's not sure how old Joe really should be anyway. He says an entire team of people will help on that one and he's always looking for people who share his vision.

"I've talked to a few talented and creative people who are thinking about it," he told the Indy Star.

                                          =======================

(TOPPS WEB SITE OFFERS FREE SHIPPING FOR THE HOLIDAYS)

  While hobby dealers continue to struggle with light foot traffic even during the holidays, Topps is offering "Free Shipping" to customers who purchase from the company web site. Among the items sold are WizKids gaming items including accessories.

On the more traditional side of things, Topps is selling Factory sets of trading cards, Santa Claus Holiday Sets which are new this year, WizKids Gaming products and more.

To it's credit Topps links all it's website that we know, to each other.

                                     ========================

(FIRST EVER "GAME" USED COMES BACK NEARLY 20 YEARS LATER)

Victor Shaffer would be proud. When he created the very first "Game Used," or actually "Race Used" item back in the early 1990's he may have dreamed we would have gone. The very first items Shaffer created as an "insert" was the lug nut.

The idea was to place a redemption card in a pack for a lug nut taken off a wheel when the tire was changed at a prestigious race. Often it was anyone from Rusty Wallace to Terry LaBonte.

Soon the "game used insert" became as common in the hobby as the $1 rookie card who isn't playing anymore. Now Mounted Memories has brought the idea back with the race used lug-nut mounted on a frame with a photo of the driver and his car.

Memories, where Shaffer consulted, kept it's consultant's idea and took it to heart many years later. Offering a plaque with photo with the Lug Nut for $20 each wholesale. Each edition is numbered to no more than 1,000 which is a lot in today's market.

The NEXTEL licensed items measure 11.5 x 7.5 inches. The company says it comes with a COA from the race team.

                                        =========================                                    

(MORE RC2 CORP RECALLS)

More recalls announced and RC2 Corporation is right in the middle of it. The two toys recalled include one which is American made.

Of the two one is made in China. The Flush and Sounds Potty Seat might contain levels of lead which are unnaceptable. The plaques inserted into the back of the item feature Winnie the Pooh and Tigger.

(Three of the toys seats in the recalled line.)

The other American Made toy is a newborn-to-toddler reclining feeding segment. There is a flaw in some of the restraining straps. There are 12 reports of children falling out of the seats.

                                        ========================

(EBAY HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2007)

What or who were the top sellers on eBay this year. As we come to a close for 2007 and usher in 2008 there were several celebs who made the annual list of most sold on eBay. Among them are Lindsay Lohan, Bill and Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

In all there were over 19,000 Hillary and Barack items sold on eBay. Probably one of the most popular was the Hillary Nut Cracker. Insert your own jokes here. The seller did.

(HILLARY, THE REAL NUTCRACKER)

Otherwise most of the items were of a political nature; buttons, pins, ribbons, photos etc.

Science fictionites were right in the mix with Transformers and Harry Potter accounting for nearly 800,000 items sold on the auction site. Between Paris Hilton. Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan there were 70,000 items.

There were all sorts of wacko items too including the cheeseburger someone dropped when they went after Barry Bonds' homer no. 756. Sports memorabilia itself and trading cards are always amongst the highest sellers in the various categories.

                                        =======================

NOLAN RYAN BACK WITH ETOPPS

VOLUME 2, NUMBER 175

**HOT**BUTTON**STORY**

(FIND THE BABE FOR $26,000!!)

(UPDATE: Topps takes high road, won't respond to Upper Deck Buysner card)

(UPDATE: Upper Deck recall letters official)

(Major League Baseball orders recall of two Upper Deck cards.)

(Newest information in italics.)

   ** RYAN ETOPPS SELL OUT QUICKLY

   ** HOBBY STORES TRY SALES, SOME WORK

   ** MORE LEAD IN TOYS TESTS SHOW

   ** EBAY OPENS JAPAN AGAIN WITH YAHOO

** FEDERAL SUIT DISMISSED AGAINST JAKKS ** KOUFAX SIGNING MORE? **

** 4KIDS IN BUYBACK ** TOPPS & INDIANA JONES ** LELANDS SCORES BIG **

DETAILS ON THESE AND OTHER STORY'S IN TBR: THE BRILL REPORT...

                                          ========================

(TOPPS WON'T RESPOND TO UPPER DECK PARODY CARD OF NEW OWNER)

In what many in the hobby are calling "extremely poor taste" Upper Deck has released a parody of new Topps owner Michael Eisner in Sweet Spot Signature Baseball. This highly unusual move by Upper Deck includes text which isn't very flattering and is what seems to be an obvious shot at Eisner who bought Topps after a battle with UD over purchasing the older card manufacturer. Topps is taking the high road and choosing not to comment on the issue.

For it's part Upper Deck issued a statement saying the release was a mistake.

(The Buysner-Eisner Card front and back.)

"It has come to our attention that 2007 Sweet Spot Baseball contains cards that should not have been incuded in the product release. Accordingly, the Upper Deck Company has sent notices to its customers requiring them to return any and all 2007 Upper Deck Sweet Spot Baseball product that they have received and/or that they may receive in the coming days."

The letters began arriving Friday, December 7 and were dated December 1, mailed three days later. THis means Upper Deck knew as early as November 30 the product contained the Buysner card, giving them a one day leeway to compose the letter and get it in the mail. Given the fact, December 1 was a Saturday and the product shipped about that time, it raises questions as to what did officials at Upper Deck know, and, when did they know it?

Few dealers would consider returning it because it has had the desired effect of increasing sales. Although the wholesale price has not increased. The single card has sold on eBay for as high as $310 and several since at a much lower price. The only way Upper Deck can assure the product be returned, or, expect it to be returned is to offer penalities to those who don't return it. This would create a huge mess and likely won't happen.

Major League Baseball was not at all happy about either the Buysner card or the Asterisk card (see below).

"We took immediate action and discussed it with them (Upper Deck) both verbally and in written form and requested they recall the cards immediately," said Susan Goodenow, a spokesperson for MLB. "I think by the immediate action we took, we showed we take this sort of thing very seriously."

Goodenow would not say whether UD could be or would be fined or penalized in any way regarding the matter. It is obviously an issue in the licensing by the fact MLB made a formal request for the recall.

"We did not know about the card prior to their release and we did not see the card previously but as you can see from Upper Deck's recall letter the cards are being recalled," added Goodenow. "We had the same conversation regarding the Asterisk card."

We have still not heard from the Players Union or Eisner's own spokesman for the Tornante company but TBR will update the situation as warranted.

The card does more than poke fun at Eisner with comments such as "as topp dog searching for a way to bring Bazonka Joe into the 21st Century." Such comments on a card are highly irregular and possibly against licensing rules which is why we have requests for response into the licensing agencies.

In addition to the Buysner card UD also issued an Asteriski card in the set. The card features an asterisk on the front with the no. 756, or Barry Bonds final home run total. Bonds, banned from other sets so to speak, is a part of Topps cards series at least into 2008 Baseball Series One. Another shot at Topps? Perhaps, but equally as much a shot at Bonds and one collectors don't mind as much as the parody of Eisner which those we've talked to feel is in poor taste.

(The back of the Asterisk card from Sweet Spot.)

The MLBPA also takes the issue seriously especially when it comes to Bonds who could be considered a non-MLBPA player in a licensed set. Bonds for instance cannot be in the Sweet Spot Signature Series because he is not a member of the union. Neither is Eisner for that matter, or, Buysner.

                                =========================

(DON WILLIAMS UD SPOKESMAN NO LONGER)

Upper Deck spokesman Don Williams has left the company. Details are sketchy but TBR was told by one insider there were some layoffs last week and Williams was likely included in them.

                               =======================

(NOLAN RYAN SIGNS ETOPPS CARDS)

They were sold out before most people had the chance to get in, but that didn't stop anxious Nolan Ryan collectors from starting their morning with eTopps. Thursday, December 6 the lines opened up and collectors paid $89.99 for each eTopps signed card of the Ryan Express. There was a limit of two per customer. There are only 100 being offered in total.

(Nolan Ryan 1967 Style eTopps autographs)

One collector who called in told TBR they were sold out in two minutes.

Of course as usual these cards must already be in your eTopps on-line portfolio but this is expected to be one of the hottest collectibles and will pop up on eBay shortly thereafter with anyone's guess being the resale price.

These are the 1967 "never was" version of Ryan's first card since his rookie card actually was 1968. It remains one of the most sought after cards over the years despite falling from a high of $1550 to about $500 currently.

(The Topps 1968 Rookie Card is still in demand.)

The show started at 1 P.M. EST Thursday December 6.

              =====================

(HOBBY SHOPS RUNNING SALES INTO THE HOLIDAYS)

Major mainstream retailers started running sales early this holiday season rather than choosing to close out items the day after Christmas; the traditional dumping day. This year it seems the big retailers decided to take the money early as competition for consumer holiday dollars heated up early on. Hobby dealers are trying sales as well, with mixed results.

"We always do our Thanksgiving Day sale which we have done forever, but not so much on cards and collectibles through the holidays," said Scott Morse of The Stadium in Bay City, Michigan. "It really does depend on the product and yes we do sales on general merchandise and toys but not in cards and collectibles as such."

Morse, who has been in business for 25 years, said he always brings in some closeouts during the holidays for his general sports card buyers who may come in once a year to buy a box or a set for a gift.

(Hobby dealers wish for this kind of pre-sale turnout)

"It's for those buyers who get sticker shock at today's card market prices," he added. "We pre gift wrap sets and make them ready to go and people like that especially as we get closer to Christmas."

Hobby stores usually do strong dollars during the holidays but not necessarily due to specific sales. Over the years we have asked hobby store owners about running discounts for the holidays and, while there are exceptions, most say it has little effect.

"The sales didn't seem to bring people in as we are getting just our regular customers in response," said Ross Finley, of Champion Sportscards in Kennesaw, Georgia. "We ran a specific memorabilia sale in the newspaper and I was surprised at what didn't happen."

Finley has owned his store for seven years and says so far this holiday season isn't any different from last but it's always pretty good.

"We live for the holidays, right?" He said. "We are running numerous in-store sales such as one sale on rookie cards, another on jersey cards, another on autographs."

(Hobby stores in Malls saw this type of turnout.)

For Morse it's been a good turn of other products, not just sports products. His store carries knick-knacks and team related products as well as candles, lotions and toys.

"We like to call ourselves the store for the whole family," said Morse.

The toy recall didn't hurt him much despite the fact he always carries Thomas the Train items.

"We've been carrying Thomas for 12 years and it always sold well and while we only had one item involved in the recall I can see a downturn in sales in the product this Christmas," added Morse. "I can see some hesitation from customers, certainly."

Thomas, from RC2 Corporation, was involved in one of the early lead-paint recalls from China. Most retailers are seeing more caution amongst toy buyers who are backing off items made in China.

When it comes to memorabilia the scene is mixed as well. Finley says his sales remain strong and it's not local teams.

"We sell a lot more of the north eastern teams, Yankees, Red Sox, Bears, than the regional teams, but we stock a lot of variety," said the owner of Champion Sportscards.

A little different from Morse's perspective.

(This ploy doesn't seem to work in the hobby.)

"I think sports is getting very specific and it is getting harder for a store like ours to compete in that market because there is so much available on-line," said Morse. "We do well with the local teams, and I think there is a lot of collecting going on but it's just getting more selective."

Morse says a case in point is in previous years a customer would come in looking for an autographed baseball. Today they want a baseball with a certain inscription and even a certain COA. Times have changed.

Both stores continue to offer gift packages; an album, some packs, cards supplies and a Beckett Magazine. Morse offers in store gift wrapping, Finley does not. He chooses to give wrapping paper with the purchase of a box and applauds Topps for sending out wrapping paper to stores with a sports theme. Morse added his compliments as well.

As for needs; Finley said it would be really nice if the companies put more sell sheets and at least a check list in every case of cards. It helps sales.

                                   ==========================

(ADVOCACY GROUP SAYS LEAD STILL A PROBLEM IN TOYS)

The Ecology Center, a Michigan based non-profit group, said a study of toys showed 17-percent of the 1200 toys it tested showed unacceptable levels of lead. These toys contained a percentage of lead above the US government standards.

(Thomas the Train has had problems with China.)

Included were Dollar Store animal figures and Hanna Montana Pop Star Game Packs as well as Circo Baby Shoes. On the up side, 28-percent of the toys tested contained no lead at all, including some from China. Amazing Animals Hippo by Fischer-Price is one of them.

                                  ===========================

(EBAY GOES TO JAPAN AGAIN AS U-S MARKET SLOWS)

There has been a lack of eBay growth in the United States so the world's biggest auction site continues to look elsewhere for it's growth. More than half of eBay revenues are coming from outside the U-S, and now Japan is the target again. The key is eBay is moving on Japan with the help of Yahoo.

The new site, www.sekaimon.com will allow Japanese users to search for specific items of vintage style to start. It is hoped by the end of the year U-S buyers can shop on the site. One of the problems is Japanese buyers who purchase Japanese branded goods cheaply on eBay only to sell at a profit on Yahoo. This new system should eliminate these transactions.

eBay went to Japan in 2000 but the market was not ready for eBay at the time and the company left pretty quickly. Now with the help of Yahoo, eBay could be ready to rock and roll in the Orient again. The Japanese market for auctions is owned 33-percent by Yahoo and 40-percent by SoftBank, a Japanese company.

The company needs a Japanese presence after losing out in China, turning over most of it's operation there to Tom On-line. While China has a much larger population the Japanese have a higher income, at the moment. China is growing so quickly the income levels are going up and will be much stronger in the next 5-10 years probably.

There are 20 million users of Yahoo in Japan alone. Unlike the U-S model, each transaction will carry a 15-percent premium which will be split between three firms; eBay, Yahoo and Netprice which operates the site.

                                          =======================

(FEDERAL SUIT DISMISSED AGAINST JAKKS)

A federal court is dismissing the case brought by WWE against toy-maker JAKKS Pacific, although state litigation is still pending. The case, brought by World Wrestling Entertainment charged bribery was used in an effort for JAKKS to gain a WWE license. The company made games and action figures.

(The JAKKS WWE collection doing battle.)

WWE wanted damages and the license vacated, while the two continue to work together since the license is good through 2009. WWE officials charged JAKKS paid officials working on the license deal $100,000 as a bribe to get it done.

The federal court had not issued the reason for the ruling by publication time.

                                        ======================

(KOUFAX SIGNING MORE LATELY)

Sandy Koufax doesn't sign a lot but he gets a lot when he signs. Koufax recently signed a number of items with Upper Deck, Mounted Memories and continues to pretty much sell through.

(Latest Koufax balls sold by Mounted Memories.)

Koufax, named Sports Illustrated Man of the Century in 1999, remains one of the most revered and respected sports figures in history. The Mounted Memories baseballs are being offered at a wholesale price of $335 with only three dozen available. Koufax typically sells for from $400-$800 on a single signed baseball.

                                       =======================

(DREAMS INTERNET SITE GETS RECORD HITS)

It is called www.fansedge.com and on Monday December 3, it took a record number 10,228 hits with sales reaching $750,000. It is the retail site for Dreams Corp., or Mounted Memories parent company.

"We count ourselves fortunate to have success at a time when most retailers are struggling," said Kevin Bates, Dreams Retail Operation president. "I can say with confidence that our success is based on a total commitment to the customer across all facets of the business."

The increase on Monday was 40-percent over 2006.

                                   ========================

(4KIDS IN BUYBACK)

The board of directors of 4KIDS Entertainment authorized the company to buy back a million shares of stock. The repurchase will take place through the end of 2008.

"The board of directors believes that the 4KIDS stock is undervalued and that it is an excellent investment for the company to buy back shares," said Al Kahn, CEO of 4KIDS.

The stock is trading at about $11.50 a share.

                                 =======================

(LELANDS SETS RECORD WITH VINTAGE RUTH PHOTO)

If you ever wondered why someone would spend thousands of dollars for an old photo, keep wondering. A buyer just paid a record $26,349 for a photo of Babe Ruth surrounded by admiring young fans, taken in the 1920's. The original photo sold in the latest Leland's auction.

(The world's most expensive Sharpie, $3654!)

Also selling for strong numbers were a Yogi Berra Home Yankees jersey for $66,000, a Josh Gibson photo for $18,000, a Christy Mathewson photo for $9,000 and a Clara Bow publicity still went for $6900. These were not the most unusual items though.

(Josh Gibson signed contract.)

The most unusual or even unique item sold for $3654. It was the Sharpie pen used by Terrell Owens when he caught a TD pass and walked over to the stands and signed it for a fan, who just happened to be financially connected to him. In the non-sports category; the jacket Elvis wore in King Creole was signed and it sold for more than $40,000.

                                      ========================

(TOPPS HONORS BASEBALL SCOUTS WITH CARDS)

Topps will be making some cards it's never made before; cards of top notch scouts. In conjunction with the Goldklang Group, Topps is developing a series of scouts cards to honor the profession.

"Topps has an unparalleled history in recognizing the accomplishments of those associated with the game of professional baseball," said Adam Zucker, director of licensing. "This partnership is another step in the direction of Topps working to pioneer change and recognition within the scope of the scouting industry, and we are thrilled to announce we are adding scouts to our trading cards."

Scouts have become famous in their own right with some sending several big name players to the major leagues. The thing about scouts is they are on the road for much of the year, filing reports, following up on players and meeting parents. It's not easy job.

"We are able to create an exceptional opportunity for the many fans who wish to receive a clearer understanding of a scout's role," said Tyler Tumminia, vice president, Goldklang Group. "We share the passion of recognizing the achievements of scouts in baseball."

The cards and other items will be distributed through several minor league stadiums with money raised to benefit a scouts Hall of Fame of which Topps is the official sponsor. Among the minor league teams where the cards will be sold are Charleston Riverdogs, St. Paul Saints and the Ft. Myers Miracle. A scout will be honored at each park as well in pre-game ceremonies.

                                       =========================

(TOPPS INDIANA JONES TO DEBUT)

Topps will debut a new heritage set soon; Indiana Jones. Indiana Jones Heritage is timed to coincide with the upcoming release of the new Jones movie "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull."  The cards will be released close to March 1, 2008.

(Indiana Jones is no stranger to Topps.)

There will be 90 cards in the series and it continues the Topps tradition as in 1981 it released Raiders of the Lost Ark. Unlike the first series, this one will have autographs. Although Topps has not announced who will sign it does say negotiations are on-going for several of the cast members.

The packs will feature vintage style backs and gum. The newest film is expected to be one of the biggest blockbusters of all time.

                                        =================

(ITG HEROES & PROSPECTS SHIPS NEXT WEEK)

Just in time for the holidays hockey fans will be ecstatic from Vancouver to Toronto and beyond. In the Game, the long standing Canadian company issuing hockey cards, will release Heroes & Prospects in time for Christmas. It debuts December 13.

Among the cool inserts is the CHL Logo Patch of which there is a complete series. A 40-card jersey insert is a new addition as well.

                                      ===================

NEW HIGH TECH AUTHENTICTOR EMPLOYED

VOLUME 2, NUMBER 174

(**HOT**BUTTON**STORY**!!)

(EVEL IS STILL COLLECTIBLE!!)

** AUTHENTICATION PROCESS GOES HI TECH

** EVEL KNIEVEL HOBBY LEGEND DEAD AT 69

** NAXCOM HITS 10K

** A-P BACK ON TRACK

** OZZY OSBOURNE RAKES IN $800K IN MEMORABILIA AUCTION FOR CANCER **

DETAILS ON THESE AND OTHER STORIES IN TODAYS TBR: THE BRILL REPORT...

                                                 =================

(AUTHENTICATION GOES HIGH TECH)

It is called the Sirit Plug-n-Play SDIO Reader and it comes from Sirit Inc. It was used this past weekend exclusively at the Football Spectacular Show at the Dallas Convention Center. On hand to test the new system were Emmitt Smith, Joe Montana, Michael Irvin and Jerry Rice to name a few big name stars. The system records the exact time, day and place where the autographs were signed.

"The Sirit SDIO was selected because of it's plug and play compatibility with HP's iPaq pocket PC in addition to the players durability and reliability," said Charles Humphreyson, of the Prova Group which brought in the item. "Moving to the Sirit reader brings mobility and flexibility of use, easier tag reading and it lowers our cost for implementation and set up."

(The SDIO System offers portable authenticating.)

The system also offers a USB port and features an antenna. In it's mission statement Prova says it wants to simplify and accelerate commerce of the $40 billion annual worldwide collectible and memorabilia industry.

Basically what Toronto based, Prova is trying to do is add provenance and legitimacy to signed items and is using the Sirit System to further that goal. Tracer Code was among the first to use digital photography and an attached tag in the late 1990's. Tracer Code items are still among the most respected in the hobby.

"We are excited about Prova selecting our reader for this application," said Tony Sabetti, VP for Sirit Inc. "These cost effective readers can turn every day tools such as smartphones and PDA's, along with handheld computers into real time communications."

This is the first time the Sirit Mobile system has been used for autographs and authentication.

                                        ==================

(EVEL IS COLLECTIBLE, EVEN AFTER DEATH)

He was collectible when NASCAR and Formula One were not. He was the earliest pioneer of X or Extreme Sports. Evel Kienvel passed away after a rough and difficult life at the age of 69. Before Tony Hawk and the guys with the boards, Knievel was jumping the Snake River, buses, cars and his autographed photos sold.

(The motorcycle X-tremist in final days.)

"I still have some Evel Kienvel photos and they still sell," said Dave Rodriguez or Signatures.com. "He was X Sports before they were Extreme."

Super Star Greetings had loads of his stuff and was just recently soliciting dealers with autographed photos of the most daring man on a motorcycle. Knievel passed away from complications of several ailments he'd been battling over the years.

A check of eBay found over 500 items but not all in one place. Many sellers seriously mis-spelled his name, both first and last. We saw the traditional "Evil," and Kinevel, Kanevil, Kenevil and many more. Signed 8x10's such as the one at the top of this page were selling for as high as $200.

(The daredevil in Sportkings 2007)

"Anything he wanted to do he did well so it did not surprise me that he wanted his signature on the cards to look good so that collectors would be happy to get them," said Ken Whitmell of Sportkings, which landed Knievel for his final trading card this year. "His true love was hockey and we spent most of our time together talking about former players that he knew or played with. He really loved the game."

Whitmell had the pleasure of sitting down with the motorcyclist in his Clearwater, Florida home as a part of the Sportkings team.

"It was an honor and privilege to include Evel in our product," said company president Dr. Brian Price. "He truly embodied the Sportkings concept."

                                   ========================

(NAXCOM CRACKS 10K AUCTION MARK)

It's only been three weeks since NAXCOM started it's eBay style auctions and already the company has had over 10,000 listings. In the meantime the company upgraded it's image server to offer better photos of auction items.

                                                 ===================

(ADRIAN PETERSON BACK UP AND RUNNING)

After what many thought was going to be a season ending knee injury, both fantasy players and hobby dealers are all smiles again. Super rookie Adrien Peterson came back early and rushed for over 100 yards and a touchdown the first game to pad his league leading rushing statistics.

(Peterson's Chrome RC autograph are selling for up to $30, while limited versions (no. to 25) are getting as high as $250.)

Hobby dealers were sorely frustrated when the Vikings rookie running back went down. It's been too long since we've had a good rookie performing well out of the chute. Peterson set the all-time single game rushing record with 296 cards before getting hurt.

Peterson rookies and autographs are in demand again in what has been thus far not a bad NFL season.

                                                ===========

(OZZY OSBOURNE GARAGE SALE AUCTION RAISES BIG BUCKS)

The Ozzy Osbourne Garage Sale Auction (that was how it was billed) brought in over $800,000 for cancer research. The rock and roller stood by as he watched some of his prized possessions go to total strangers.

(Some of Ozzy's stuff which went to raise money for the Sharon Osbourne Colon Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.)

"We had Ozzy fans bidding against these fine art buyers which you don't see every day," said Darren Julien of Julien's Auctions which ran the event. "

Funds raised go to Osbourne's wife Sharon's charity. A cancer survivor she gave her name to the Colon Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles.

                                                 ================