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Jan
26, 2022, Roxanne — I
was going to do some measuring in my pantry but decided to email you
instead.
Oct 20, 2021, Roxanne — I hope this is a continuation of our saga which we can one day turn into a book! First of all, I need your new address so I can send you promos. Apr 2, 2020, Roxanne — A collector sent me an email telling me about this on eBay '1986 Rare one-of-a-kind Collectible letter GPK Garbage Pale Kid from Topps'. I told him the story about how we became friends because of the letter. * My personal history, relationship, and long friendship with Roxanne. I don't recall when I started to subscribe to the Non-Sport Update publication, but it must have been around the time I published my website in '98, or soon before that. I remember connecting the name 'Roxanne Toser' to the individual that I had reached out to several times via snail mail in '86—with questions about Garbage Pail Kids, naturally. For those that have watched the '30 Years of Garbage' GPK documentary, from 2017—filmed in 2015 with a backers DVD release in 2016, it was quite an honour for me to explain the steps I took to reach out to Roxanne, way back when; pretty much thirty years later—at the time of filming. It would have been closer to 40 years, this year, in 2025, marking the 40th anniversary of GPK!  SPRING 2017 PNS SHOW — ROXANNE AT THE SATURDAY NIGHT DINNER Roxanne ran a mail-order business and would send out a catalogue that she would handwrite additional new product information within, besides the U.S. GPK material, such as the infamous 'test sets' ($60 each), UK sets ($30 each), etcetera. Back then, you could tape coins to your envelope and place it in your mailbox; the mailman would later slap some postage on it. After corresponding with Roxanne several times, and her obviously being a business woman—and losing out on money by paying excessive postage—she kindly asked me to "please have your mother send any future correspondence with S.A.S.E.", not verbatim, and I wrote her back asking about other GPK questions and what SASE was? From recollection, I believe that was our last correspondence in the 80s. I don't blame her. Check out the 'Please note:' section of the Topps letter pictured further below, concerning S.A.S.E., heh, oops. But I was twelve! After being reacquainted with Roxanne in the late 90s, and becoming closer-and-closer friends ever since our in-person meet up in 2007 at a Philly Non-Sports card show, we have exchanged hundreds upon hundreds of emails to each other, free of charge, and I wanted to sprinkle some email excerpts throughout this dedication page from the source, the queen of non-sport card royalty, Roxanne. It shares snippets of her amusing stubborn personality, her upfront stance on life, and her endless spirit. What it might not completley convey is her dark (& hilariously dry) sense of humour, her nonstop support & kindness—especially if you were in her good graces—and her many other passions. Like bobbleheads! ** Feb 11, 2020, Roxanne — I just thought of something Jay once told me. I asked him what he liked to draw when he just doodled and he said he never doodled--just drew when he was being paid. [ed. Note: we lost Jay in 2017.] Apr 14, 2020, Roxanne — Marlin has been sorting through old photos and they really bring back memories. There is one of me with John Pound when we had him as a guest at our San Jose show. There are some of Jay. May 11, 2022, Roxanne — Thought I'd touch base before the show. It's either write to you or finish the centerpieces for the dinner so... |
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Harris
Toser, Roxanne's son, sent the below information to me in May 2019 for
a short presentation that took place during the Saturday night dinner
at the spring Philly Non-Sports card show. It's a wonderful synopsis
of Roxanne's involvement in the trading-card industry and card-collecting
community; a much more in depth 'life & work' description of his
mother and her career than I could ever provide... extremely impressive
and very poignant; along with Roxanne's obituary that I have posted
near the bottom of this Toser Tribute page.
 NOTE: IMAGE BY ARTIST JIM ENGEL; I BELIEVE IT TOOK OVER AS THE MAIL-ORDER IMAGE IN '88 Roxanne Toser Non-Sports We started our mail order business in 1976. Technically, it began with me as a boy, I purchased Star Wars cards and sold them in a hobby publication. I soon lost interest but the business flourished and my mother left her job as a teachers' aide in the public school system to work on the mail order business full time. She ran that from '76 to '90 when we started NSU and felt it was a conflict of interest to do both. Along the way, her and Marlin were able to travel to major card shows and were usually either the only non-sport card dealer or one of the few. Non-Sport Update Wacky Packages and
GPK's Having been a hobby dealer when the original Garbage Pail Kids series were issued, she sold Garbage Pail Kids in droves to collectors around the country and even internationally. Parody cards like Wacky Packages and Garbage Pail Kids has always been one of Roxanne's favorite parts of the hobby. I guess you could kind of say she's "Wacky" that way. SCAI Philly Non-Sports Card
Show Aside from all of her hobby accomplishments, Roxanne and Marlin have raised three sons (two of them -- Harris and Barry -- are here today along with her daughter-in-law Jody). Roxanne and Marlin have been married 63 years! [ed. Note: as of 2019.] |
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Nov
22, 2000, Roxanne
— I read your article and know you followed the directions you
were given. I heard you had sent a complete listing to Bernie [Mertes]
and I asked to see it. It's great! I would like to use it as part of
the article--perhaps as a sidebar--but this is such valuable information,
I wanted to make sure you wouldn't mind us using it. In fact, I would
like you to add values if you can.
I remember there being phone-bid auctions through the Non-Sport Update publication, and that's the first time I would speak with Roxanne Toser and other family members over the telephone—while I was living in Chicago in the late 90's—as they took bids, and I recollect winning a half box of New Zealand GPK 1st Series packs/cards by Regina for one of their many auctions. I moved out to Colorado in 2000, and recall Roxanne being excited that I had won a 9-card uncut sheet of Morbid Monster Cards through one of their NSU magazine giveaways—a year or so later after my move—and at that point she was well aware of my Garbage Pail Kids website. 
Roxanne had reached out in mid-to-late 2000 asking that I write an article on 'foreign' GPK cards, which was eventually published within Volume • 12 No. 1 (Feb-March 2001). Roxanne has a long history of supporting others in the card-collecting community, along with artists and dealers, especially if you helped support her many accomplishments within the non-sport trading-card industry. After attempting to re-collect the U.S. GPK releases in the late '90s, after 'discovering' eBay, I soon started to get serious on collecting as many of the international GPK releases as possible, along with researching the many artists behind the artwork, and the writers and their card text. I worked alongside Wayne Genauldi, of Wayne's GPK References website for quite some time, creating variation checklists for the multiple international releases, but so many others sets eluded us.  Jan 18, 2001, Me — I received my two copies of NSU with the GPK article I had written for you... what can I say, I'm speechless. Great editing, great pictures, great layout. I thank you immensely for allowing me to take up so much space in your elite magazine. Thank you, Roxanne, for the intro to my article and for the kind words, I'm glad we were reacquainted. Thank you, Bernie, for the guidance and help. And thank you, Harris, for responding to my email and for the support. Jan 19, 2001, Roxanne — Glad you were pleased with the article. I surely thought it was something well worth printing and the kind of thing I feel is a great service to our readers. Thanks for all the kind words.   * May 1, 2003, Roxanne — I hope your information is right and that John, Jay and Tom will be involved in the new set. Right now, I am waiting for answers to the e-mail questions I sent to Topps for the article. The contact knew they were coming. I volunteered to do this article since I was so involved with the earlier series (as you know!). I am really excited about the new series and hope it is successful so Topps will do more than one series. I had traveled out to New York in 2005 to visit Tom Bunk and Mark Newgarden, to gather additional research for the website, but was not able to make my first trip out to the Philly Non-Sports (PNS) trading-card show until 2007, and to finally meet Roxanne in person. I remember her immediately taking me by the hand and stating, "I have someone you must meet!" and pulling me over to introduce me to her good friend Jay Lynch—who shook my hand with a huge wad of tissue (that he was using while sketching) and jokingly said "Sorry, I'm not sure what's in there!"—and then she proceeded to personally walk me around the show, introducing me to dealers, her son Harris, etcetera. It was a whirlwind weekend to say the least, I was hooked, and it really cemented our growing friendship. 
A RARE MARLIN TOSER KEEPSAKE, CIRCA 2012 — ALWAYS A PERSONAL TOUCH WITH (THE OLD) NSU ** Oct 2007, Roxanne — I’m really looking forward to meeting you. This show should be a lot of fun! Nov 7, 2007, Me — Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the 'Philly' Allentown show over the weekend, I'm still a bit overwhelmed by the amount of people I finally got to meet in person--the show was amazing. Thank you kindly for throwing such an exciting show, it was a great privilage meeting you. Nov 7, 2007, Roxanne — It was so great to finally meet you. It’s amazing we have stayed in touch all of this time. We were especially thrilled with the atmosphere at the show—lots of electricity. I love that last bit. Very similar to Roxanne's Philly show write-up in the following Non-Sport Update publication. I sure miss the Non-Sport Notes section by Roxanne. "The Philly Show in Allentown was a huge success. The best part about it was the enthusiasm displayed by all who attended. There was an electricty in the air and it was a great feeling." Held at the Merchants Square Mall in Allentown, PA, for the first time. After electronically sifting through so many old photos of the show for this dedication page, I could 'smell' Merchants Square Mall. |
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Jun
3, 2013, Roxanne — Thought you might
be interested in coming to the Sep 21 & 22 Philly Show. We are very
excited to have Brent Engstrom setting up. Hope you can make it.
Aug 27, 2013, Harris — It's sure been a long time since I spoke to you! I think you've spoken with my mother more recently though. Hope you've been well. I wanted to see if you thought there might be anything we could do together or if you might be able to put some of this information on your site? I would love it if you could come but that's probably not possible, is it? We'd love to see you there. Aug 28, 2013, Me — Very good to hear from you! Of course I'll promote the show on my site, no question; I hope it generates some attention and attendance. I've always promoted NSU as much as possible; and will always pay tribute to your mom. * Oct 10, 2014, Me — I hope you guys have a wonderful show weekend. I'm excited the GPK Documentary still has a strong pulse; still gutted I wasn't able to make the show last year for the filming! Oct 10, 2014, Roxanne — I am still annoyed about not being part of the GPK film because during that time period, I lived and breathed GPK. Oct 10, 2014, Me — I've been meaning to congratulate you on 25 years of NSU! Unbelievable. I still can't believe we've been in contact since '86, that blows my mind. Speaking of GPK... I thought the 30 Years of Garbage crew filmed at the Philly Show that weekend? Especially in the non-Internet era of the '80s, you guys were my ONE link to GPK. I remember Topps having a short list of 'dealers' on their response letter(s); and I picked yours. Glad I did! Oct 10, 2014, Roxanne — They did film at our show and filmed Jay Lynch. I just think they’re missing the angle of a dealer selling GPK. I told them I was willing to be filmed. I’m glad you picked us, too!! Nov 11, 2014, Me — I definitely brought your name up to both Sean and Joe regarding your possible involvement in the '30 Years of Garbage' documentary; but Joe assured me that Jeff [Zapata] spoke highly of you and already had you on the 'to interview' list, and I verified this with Harris. So, this makes me extra happy. I'm actually [an] 'executive producer' for the GPK movie; I'm excited to be a part of it in some capacity. Nov 12, 2014, Roxanne — Sean said he would like to come here to interview me so I’m waiting to see if I get a call. I saw you were going to be the Executive Producer and I think that’s great. Hopefully, we’ll get tickets to the GPK premier. It was really fun going to The King of Arcades premier. Where does Tom Bunk live? Maybe we could have him as a guest artist sometime at the Philly Show. I’ve been wanting to email you regarding something else but the days just keep going by. With the 30th anniversary of GPK, I would love to produce a book on GPK similar to The Beat Goes On (Wacky Packages book). You are the person with all of the information. Would you be interested in working on a project like this with us? [ed. Note: this project did not come to fruition due to the NSU sale to Beckett.] Nov 12, 2014, Me — I 'd love to work on a similar "Beat Goes On" rendition for GPK with you guys, absolutely. That really means a lot that I was considered in your upcoming project. This is definitely the time to do it... with the documentary coming out and Topps' yet announced 30th GPK Anniv. set in the works for next year. I'm looking forward to being a part of it. On a side note, it doesn't look promising that a second Abrams GPK book will be produced (but I suppose there's always hope), at any rate, Mark Newgarden was set up to write the introduction... not sure if you'll have any intros or afterwards for your GPK book, but that's a suggestion, and hopefully an opening from you? And, it would be great to see Bunk and Lynch do an afterward. Art Spiegelman did the intro and Pound did the afterward for the Abrams book. See attached; every time I see page 2 of that letter with your name on it, it makes me smile. The memories! Tom Bunk lives in New Rochelle, right outside of New York. I'm hoping and planning on making the NYCC and Philly circuit next year. I'll definitely encourage him if need be, we email almost weekly. Nov 12, 2014, Roxanne — I love seeing the Topps letter. We would have to incorporate it in the book! Good idea about Mark Newgarden. We need to get working on this asap because, like we said, time flies.   Nov 17, 2014, Roxanne — Just wondering if you received the Wacky Book and, if so, what you think about using the same format for a GPK book? Nov 17, 2014, Me — Thanks for sending; wonderful. I believe the layout looks great; were you thinking of keeping the booklet around the same number of pages? Nov 17, 2014, Roxanne — I think the GPK book will have to be a lot bigger. I would like to list everything possible and would like to do the foreign sets, too. Why not when you have all of this knowledge? Hopefully, you have listings and it will only be a matter of changing them to another format. Nov 17, 2014, Me — Sorry for the delay, I just had a documentary phone meeting with Joe; they're scheduling west coast interviews for the end of January, and will be scheduling east coast interviews for February; you were mentioned by name and definitely on board for one. I just wasn't sure if you wanted to keep it at the same size or larger; I really like the 'zine' feel to it. I was going to say the same thing, I do have checklists on my website, etc, and like you mentioned, it would just take reformatting, etc. Nov 17, 2014, Roxanne — I think it would be great to include as many of the foreign sets as possible. Harris is leaving for a show in England tomorrow. He knows I’m working on this but I have not said too much about it. When he gets back, I’ll have a serious talk with him. It would be great to have this done in time for the May show in Allentown. Nov 18, 2014, Roxanne — I was pleased with my conversation with Harris today and think this will all work. I’m trying to remember who printed the book for us last time and will send one to our printer to see if it was them and either way try to get an idea of the price. We certainly will have pictures—otherwise it’s boring. Nov 21, 2014, Roxanne — Just looking at what you sent, I picture it as two columns—one for A and one for B. In the little write-up about the set, we would list variations, wrapper codes and things like there are two different wrappers—one with 25 cents and one without. I would think you could begin doing the write-ups and copying and pasting the sticker names per set. It’s probably amazing how much I’ve forgotten about all of this. Nov 21, 2014, Me — I'll also start working on that write-ups, most likely mimic your Wacky Package book write-up style. PS: I was incorrect; sounds like the doc crew will be planning your interview shortly after Thanksgiving. Let me know how that goes, exciting! Nov 21, 2014, Roxanne — I am having a crazy, crazy day. I couldn’t find a document I worked on yesterday and after I retyped things, the document turned up. These things always happen when Harris isn’t here. Helps to vent. Nov 24, 2014, Me — I've attached a 'draft' copy of the OS1-OS5 write-ups, just to make sure I'm on the right track. Nov 24, 2014, Roxanne — One thing—are you sure GPK was the most popular card franchise ever produced? Was it more popular than Wackys? Nov 24, 2014, Me — I thought you'd comment on that; as far a 'sales' go, it made Topps millions; I believe I've heard upwards of $100M and they had to pay out OAA around $40M for the lawsuit. However, Wacky's have been around for a lot longer, and I believe has a much 'richer' background and collector fan-base, but I'm not sure if as profitable as GPK, at least during that four-year span. I meant no offense, since I know you're a WP-er! Let's replace 'popular' with 'lucrative'? The word 'popular' is easily misconstrued; so agreed. Highlight that in 'red' ink.  Dec 19, 2014, Roxanne — Sean & Krystle were here last evening to do the interview. They had a little trouble with the audio equipment but after they got it straightened out, it was a lot of fun. I heard you are meeting them in CA when they interview John Pound. John’s a great guy. We used to run a show in San Jose and we had him as a guest. He also did one of our magazine covers. I asked Ira Friedman at Topps about the “booklet”—trying not to make it sound like a big deal. He didn’t answer that part of my email so I asked again. Dec 19, 2014, Me — Great, I'm glad the interview went well; I'm thrilled you've been included, of course; it is only fitting. I believe I might miss John Pound's interview; although, I'd love to meet him. They'll be doing a few interviews before I arrive; they'll be in Portland to interview [James Houx], and then in Eureka to interview Pound. I wasn't invited until afterwards, when they're all be in L.A. for a group of other interviews that last week in January. John wants a 'closed' interview, with not many people in attendance. [ed. Note: one crewmember also thought I was too much of a 'fanboy'.] So I'll have to wait to see him on the big screen! Definitely keep me posted on Ira's response. Hopefully it is greenlit. Dec 19, 2014, Roxanne — I’m pretty sure we did not get permission for the Wacky book. Things were a lot different then. I really wasn’t going to ask but Jay thought we should do so and I usually listen to Jay. Who else are they interviewing in CA? John Pound is a very quiet individual so that probably has something to do with it. Dec 19, 2014, Me — Yes, John is such a quiet person. I remember interviewing him for the website back in 2007, but it took years of me sporadically asking him if he was ready to do one; he kept saying "Check back...", but I was thrilled when he did. In L.A. they're [interviewing a newer artist] Layron DeJarnette. I believe some of the actors who were in the GPK movie. L.A. doesn't seem to be as artist heavy. Sean and Joe Simko mentioned they'd like to film me a bit for the documentary when I'm in L.A., as a 'GPK Historian'. Dec 20, 2014, Roxanne — You absolutely should be interviewed as a GPK Historian. Your site is amazing and you have so much knowledge. Going to see Annie. Dec 22, 2014, Roxanne — We are hoarders but I don’t think I have any of the old correspondence re GPK—wish I did. Dec 22, 2014, Me — Your type of hoarding is amazing; the shelves behind you just in the pictures from Sean's last compaign update made me drool! It's like treasure hunting. Dec 22, 2014, Roxanne — Yes, it is like treasure hunting but half the time we can’t find what we’re looking for. |
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Apr
8, 2015, Roxanne — [Topps]
asked if I had any original series 1 & 2 [singles] I would be willing
to sell. [Topps] says they need near 10,000 but will have a firm number
soon.
Apr 8, 2015, Me — Interesting; so Topps is reaching out for cards to put into their 30th anniversary set. I definitely will not mention this to anyone of course. Apr 20, 2015, Harris — We found these today--the GPK Soundtrack album and cassette. They were just kind of squirreled away from way back in the day. My mother likes to do that. :-) May 5, 2015, Roxanne — It was great seeing you again. hope you had a good time and will be back in October. When things settle down a little, I'll see if I can figure out a way to do the book. May 7, 2015, Me — The show was wonderful; I had a great time perusing the tables and shops, hanging with the GPK doc crew, seeing the Tosers (of course), what a fun weekend. And, "Yes", we should revisit the GPK book idea. May 7, 2015, Roxanne — [Topps] contacted me and needed more GPK. I sent [them] some more. This was a good opportunity to mention the book again and, of course, I did. I said "Aaron Booton who was 12 years old at the time and bought lots of sets from me was at the show this past weekend. He was such a nice polite young boy and we have kept in touch all of these years. He very much wants to help us put together a GPK booklet. I still think it would be great for all of the fans." His only reply was "Yeah, Aaron is a really nice guy and I email with him all the time. He’s got a great GPK website as well!" Jul 21, 2015, Roxanne — By now, you must think we're awful. Harris worked on a page for the book but we are yet to talk about it. July 21, 2015, Me — Ha, I would never think you guys are awful! No worries Roxanne; I figured you were dealing things and would eventually reach back out. Get back to me whenever. Sep 16, 2015, Me — I talked to Simko yesterday and found out due to commitments next year, they're attending the Fall Philly show this year opposed to the Spring show next year. I was thinking of checking to see if Bunk was available that weekend (he's in Seattle at the moment), and see if I could fly into LaGuardia and drive him down there. Sep 16, 2015, Roxanne — Since you weren't coming to this show, we decided maybe it would be best to wait until fall for GPK coverage but if the Simkos aren't coming to that show.....I just don't know. Sep 16, 2015, Me — Bunk got back to me and said he was up for it. I was all set to rent a car and pick him up, but he wants to pick me up at the airport, wants me to stay with him in New Rochelle Friday, and make an early trip down to Allentown Saturday. So, I'm pretty sure I'll be attending, regardless if there's any GPK item or event, it will still be nice to attend the show. Sep 16, 2015, Roxanne — We have not done anything yet about Star Wars for Card Talk so could still switch it to GPK. What about a panel with you (yes, I said you), Jeff, Tom, Joe and Jason Brower? 
Sep 17, 2015, Me — That would be fun to be on the panel, thank-you for including me(!), what an honor. Tom just verified the plans so I will go ahead and book two rooms for Saturday night. I'm very happy this is panning out; I know you really wanted to do something GPK-related for the 30th. Super excited to see you twice in one year! Sep 17, 2015, Roxanne — Sounds great! We'll keep you posted and you keep us posted. Sep 17, 2015, Harris — My mother has been keeping me posted on the show stuff. That's great that you are able to make it back to Allentown again! Do you own the GPK movie? We would like to show the GPK movie [Saturday night]. I was wondering if Tom and Jeff might want to exhibit on Saturday and Sunday and split this last table? Would you want to ask Tom if he's interested? Sep 17, 2015, Me — Yes, I'm extremely excited to see you guys again, so soon. Although Tom and I are in continuous contact, I haven't been out to New Rochelle since '07, so I'm looking forward to that Friday night and the drive down to Allentown Saturday. 'Yes', I do have a DVD copy of the GPK movie. It seriously is a travesty of a movie! Yeah, I mentioned to Tom that there might be an option of there being a table for him to exhibit his artwork and doing sketch cards if he wants to. I figured he could share with Jeff, that would be wonderful, thank you. Sep 21, 2015, Me — Is it okay for me to promote the show and mention Tom, Joe and Jeff will be there? Sep 21, 2015, Roxanne — Fantastic! Are you sure Jeff will be coming? We can't get a straight answer out of him. Sep 21, 2015, Me — June said he told them (Joe & herself) that he'd be there. He posted that Tom, Joe and himself would be at the show on a GPK forum. Sep 21, 2015, Harris — I asked June and Joe if they would be willing to be on a panel on Sunday morning. And I am pretty sure you said you would too...is that right? And would you mind asking Tom if he would too? I guess the focus would be '30th anniversary of GPK'. Sep 21, 2015, Me — I pretty much told Tom last week that he was placed on a GPK panel for Sunday morning at the hotel prior to the show and he said "Okay, sounds fun". It was such an honor to be asked by Roxanne to be on the panel, so yes, of course I'd love the opportunity. Sep 23, 2015, Harris — Now that the registrations are rolling in, I saw one come through for Mark Pingitore. I sent him an email right away [...] That's a pretty good "get", isn't it? I've met Mark several times before and he seems like a great guy. He said his brother lives in Allentown, and that he wants to meet Tom Bunk. Sep 23, 2015, Me — Brilliant, I'm glad Mark is on board! Nov 9, 2015, Roxanne — How about the GPK event at the toy show in Vegas? Do you know who is putting it together? Sounds like a lot of fun. Nov 9, 2015, Me — Good to see your name pop-up in my inbox. Several collectors, including myself are planning on going; our convention tickets have already been purchased and the rooms reserved. Nov 9, 2015, Roxanne — This all sounds very interesting. We'll decide what to do. |
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Jan
25, 2016, Me — How are you
doing?! 2016 is already zipping by. I was visiting Brent [Engstrom]
this past weekend in Salina, KS to check out [his] art exhibit that
runs through March 11th and to catch-up in person, it was a pleasant
visit. He mentioned he'd love to do the the Tosers (Marlin, you and
Harris) in GPK-style--I thought that would be most excellent for a NSU
anniversary issue/etc. Still very
much looking forward to the GPK documentary; the crew is still hard
at work, I did see a bit of rough first half to provide feedback and
it's great to see you on film for this project! What do you guys think
about a possible variant cover to hype the Vegas show and a possible
write up?
Jan 26, 2016, Roxanne — I just mentioned your name yesterday and then I heard from you. I don't know quite how to begin with telling you everything that's been happening around here. I have said time and time again, I feel bad about leaving you hanging re the book and I said this again yesterday before I heard from you. Your emails really depressed me because I would really love to be involved with everything you said. The purchasing company [is treating my name as a] brand and I can't be involved with any publications having anything to do with non-sports for seven years. Jan 26, 2016, Me — Of course, the news does (more than) slightly sadden me! This does answer a lot of questions since the conception of your parody book projects last year, but I thought that was primarily Topps being a stick in the mud. And, don't feel sad about the book projects, et cetera, you truly outdid yourself attempting to follow through. Jan 26, 2016, Roxanne — Thanks for being so understanding but I wouldn't expect anything less from you. Jan 28, 2016, Harris — I just wanted to drop you a line to echo what my mother has said--that we're sorry we could not get together on the book project. I'm glad she was finally able to tell you what's going on. I wish we could have worked with you on the project for the GPK Con as your ideas were great and we would definitely have gone for that. Jan 28, 2016, Me — No worries about the book project, etc.; this is all part of life! I really do appreciate your thoughts and for reaching out, it means a lot. I'll keep you posted on the GPK Doc, I know they're hoping to have it completed by June. It's great to see your mom in there! I've watched a couple of rough reels.  Feb 23, 2016, Roxanne [To ALL] — You may or may not know we have sold Non-Sport Update magazine to Beckett Media. Because of this, I have a new email address. Mar 11, 2016, Roxanne — Leaving for a weekend in New York to celebrate my birthday. More later. Mar 11, 2016, Me — Happy birthday, Roxanne! Apr 9, 2016, Roxanne — How are things going? You would think we wouldn't be busy but we are. We're trying to get things in order around here and at the same time get some things together for the Philly Show. We are still talking about coming to the Vegas show. Apr 10, 2016, Me — Great to hear from you! I'll be helping Joe out at his booth selling the GPK documentary and I believe we're trying to get Bunk next to us; so I'll be there for the long haul. Apr 10, 2016, Roxanne — I have a whole box of just pencils without the billboards. They are yellow, olive green, purple, pink and light brown. They say Garbage Pail Kids, names like Mad Mike and a Topps copyright and date of 1983. Could these be the pencils before the billboards were added? Jun 10, 2016, Roxanne — We will be in New York for the premiere and will be staying at the Gatsby Hotel. The three of us will be there. I just made a reservation for Marlin and I for Las Vegas. It's been one thing after another around here. On Mother's Day, a huge tree fell on the roof of our office. Jun 12, 2016, Me — I'm definitely looking forward to both events, the premier in NY and the GPK Con in Vegas. I cannot believe the doc will be on the big screen in less than a month. I had looked at the Gatsby Hotel but June and Joe wanted me to stay a little closer to their place (and I'll be up 'north' on Thursday visiting Tom) so I'll be staying at Central Park North and taking a taxi down to the premier that Friday; very happy you'll be attending (all three of you).  NOTE: GROSS CARD CON #1 — ROXANNE HOLDING A LETTER I HAD SENT HER THAT SHE FOUND Sep 20, 2016, Roxanne — Finding things is fun but all the work is driving me crazier than I was already. Today we found a few sets of Trash Can Tots B series of 36, Trash Kan Gang, really shiny sticker prism sets of 23, and Bunch o Brats prism sets of 12. Next Spring, I would love to have Layron, Chad Scheres, Smokin' Joe, Tom Bunk, maybe Jay Lynch and Dr. Chud as well as Neil but we can't afford to pay for hotels for all of them (let alone air fare). I don't know what to do. I think they would all be a hit on the east coast and would make money (of course their tables would be free) but I don't know what to do about asking them. What do you think? Sep 23, 2016, Roxanne — Neil has been in touch with Joe, Layron and Chad and it sounds like they will come to the show. We are trying to figure out a fund-raising idea to help pay their expenses. This would be so great. Not finding the New Zealand boxes is driving me crazy. We have the pencils but where in the h....are the boxes? Sep 23, 2016, Roxanne — I found one of the boxes!! It was in a box filled with GPK wrappers. Happy I found one and hope we find the other one. Sep 26, 2016, Me — What a shock! I received a package from you today and am very touched and excited. Thank-you. What a surprise. I will cherish them; especially the letter (on old letterhead); I miss 'letters'. Oct 24, 2016, Roxanne — While I was looking through the big box I had with [non-GPK Australian & N.Z.] items, there was a lot of correspondence. One paragraph from the guy in Australia caught my eye: "I would also like to thank you for the Garbage Pail Kids cards and wrappers. They were a real buzz. I have only ever seen one reference to them and that was on a news item on TV and it said they were a phenomenon. It showed inside a shop with a big line of people waiting to buy them by the box full. We might get them over here but I wouldn't hold my breath about it though. I would imagine if we were to get the, it would not be until after the court case has finished. But as soon as I get some, you will get some." The letter was not dated and I really enjoyed reading it. Looked on Facebook to see if I could find either one of these guys but no luck. Oct 25, 2016, Me — That individual was absolutely correct though, they received them after the settlement with a name change. I wonder what made you initially start hitting up places that didn't even have a release yet; you were definitely on a mission. I know you really wanted those Israel cards. 
NOTE: LETTERHEAD IMAGE (CIRCA '82) WAS USED ON THE MAIL-ORDER CATALOG Dec 26, 2016, Roxanne — I don't know whether or not you heard anything about this but I've known for a while and wasn't supposed to say anything. Jay has cancer and is very ill. He is going for treatments but I'm so sad to say I don't think he will be with us very much longer. He doesn't want it spread around but I think several people who found out posted about it. I've been calling him once a week and really wish I lived closer so I could help him. It is so very sad and I hate to talk about it during this holiday season but I thought you should know. Dec 26, 2016, Me — That is very upsetting news regarding Jay; I was sort of wondering since he's been so quiet on Facebook, and getting rid of art at times, etc. I'm glad he's receiving weekly calls from you, that makes me happy to hear. It sounds like it might be pretty advanced, then? Please keep me posted whenever possible. Dec 26, 2016, Roxanne — Jay's cancer is advanced. He was in intensive care for about a week and does sound better as far as his breathing goes. He has an unbelievable outlook and says he's old. I told him I was older than he is! He also told me Skip Williamson is quite ill with complications from diabetes. Jay is giving all of his papers to Ohio State University. They have some of it but need to get the rest. I don't know why he picked Ohio State and will ask him. Dec 29, 2016, Me — Mark Newgarden reached out the next day after you about Jay and sent me his phone number; I should call and see how he's doing, but I also don't want to bombard him. Have you talked to him this week? Do you know what type/kind of cancer he has? My dad passed away in 2005 (liver, etc.)... but Bunk beat the odds in 2005! Dec 29, 2016, Roxanne — I planned to call Jay over the weekend. He has lung and pancreatic cancer. People seldom beat pancreatic cancer. |
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Jan
9, 2017, Roxanne — Talked
to Jay on Saturday (his birthday). Art Speigleman and his wife were
coming to see Jay in the afternoon and they were going to Google a place
to go out to eat. I was very happy to hear this.
Jan 19, 2017, Roxanne — Marlin keeps finding GPK items as he cleans the basement and don't tell anyone but I have 70 Pop-Ups in their original form! I knew I had more than the first batch I found but never did I dream I had that many. Not taking all of them to the show. He found zipper pulls, tacky snappers and more bouncing balls. Jan 19, 2017, Me — WHAT?!? 70 Pop-Ups?!? I can imagine collectors being upset they didn't show up at the show when this information gets out there in the form of pictures, et cetera from other collectors at the show. Wow. That's a lot of great Imperial items. I miss that blue wall at Toys R Us back in the day. Jan 19, 2017, Roxanne — I thought the GPK items would go up in value but how I bought what I did without Marlin killing me is anyone's guess! I will be working every day to get items ready. Feb 15, 2017, Roxanne — Attached is the (I could use a word I never say with 'ing' at the end) [Topps] contract. Feb 15, 2017, Me — Wow, it's always something, huh? Jay Lynch tribute set has been posted to [the Topps] website. Feb 15, 2017, Roxanne — Just got the artists' contracts and had to scan and send to them. Then I sign and send to Topps. Have to send them four copies of each in the mail. Geez. I'm going to order one of Jay's sets so thanks for telling me. Feb 18, 2017, Roxanne — Just saw what you added about the tribute set for Jay. Terrific job. Jay's back in the hospital getting transfusions because he's very anemic. I talked to him yesterday before he went back in the hospital and he was really bad. His neighbor called me today to tell me he's back in the hospital. Feb 20, 2017, Me — Thanks for checking out that page for Lynch, I appreciate the feedback! I hate to even think it, but I hope Jay sticks around long enough for the set to even sell through March 15th! I shouldn't have those thoughts. Feb 20, 2017, Roxanne — It's questionable as to whether or not he will make it that long. Feb 24, 2017, Roxanne — To show how special you are, I am sending this to you. No one has seen it except Harris, Marlin and I. I asked [Topps] if he had any of the artwork and he sent these to me. I will also send you Layron's which came in another email. Joe Simko's Crockett is finished and the rest are roughs. Do not share these with anyone!! I am pretty sure Tom is doing a Sunday promo and George Wright is doing a dinner promo. Feb 24, 2017, Me — Brilliant! Will your (Toser) caricatures find their way on any card?? Feb 24, 2017, Roxanne — Nope. [Topps] wanted something which would have a wider audience. 
SPRING 2017 PNS SHOW — ROXANNE HOLDING A METAL CARD VERSION OF BUNK'S ARTWORK Feb 28, 2017, Me — My thoughts have been with you and Marlin these past two days, and of course, with Jay. I'm sure the visit meant the world to him. You guys have been good friends for such a long time. Feb 28, 2017, Roxanne — I called Ira to tell him about my visit with Jay. He has been keeping in touch with Jay, too. Tom sent the image to Harris. What do you think of it? Don't tell him I sent it to you. Feb 28, 2017, Tom to Harris — Attached the promo card. Sorry I didnt have more time to work on it but I am under a tight deadline stress. Feb 28, 2017, Roxanne — He just emailed back and asked if he could have a little more time to work on it because he's not satisfied. We need to come up with a short program for the dinner--any suggestions? Mar 5, 2017, Me — I've been told Jay has passed away this weekend? So extremely sad to hear this. I'm really glad you were able to visit him beforehand. He will be missed. Mar 5, 2017, Roxanne — I was at a concert this afternoon and it was a tribute to Barbra Streisand. I kept crying all through the concert and told Marlin I was thinking about Jay and the music made me sad. When I got home, there was a message on the phone saying he had passed. Mar 17, 2017, Roxanne — I did something really dumb. When I started entering in names of those who wanted to register for the dinner, I forgot to take into consideration the artists, their guests, Marlin, Harris and I--that's 11 people. When it dawned on me what I did two days ago, we had 59 people (the room only holds 56). I have my fingers crossed three people who said they were interested will not pay. I'm not telling anyone but thought you would like hearing about it. I have people on the waiting list. One gal said she would sit on the floor. Mar 17, 2017, Me — That made my day, Roxanne. We might have to tag-team--someone can eat half the plate and then let the other person in, heheh. Did you see the flyer that Art Spiegelman put together for a Jay Lynch memorial later in the month in NYC? I can't believe the underground comix community lost Skip (Williamson) so soon after. Mar 17, 2017, Roxanne — Jay told me Skip was on his way out so I wasn't surprised but that was crazy saying he died one day when he didn't die till the next day. Apr 11, 2017, Roxanne [Show Schedule to artists] — "There is a little restaurant in the Merchants Square Mall near the showroom. We will be running a tab so feel free to use it for lunch. Aaron Booton will be available for restaurant runs." Did you laugh when I volunteered you for lunch runs? We sort of talked about this before so I hope you don't mind. Looking forward to seeing you and looking forward to the show. Apr 11, 2017, Me — Haha, I did! Barely 2wks away, looking forward to this and seeing you, Roxanne! Apr 17, 2017, Roxanne [Philly Show Dinner email] — "We will be honoring Frank Reighter, original Philly Show promoter, who passed away in February and Jay Lynch who passed away in March. Jeff Zapata will share some of his memories of Jay and all attendees can add their memories as well. See you in five days!!" Apr 18, 2017, Me — Thanks for this information, Roxanne, See you in four days!! Apr 19, 2017, Roxanne — See you in three days! Tomorrow we pack the cars and leave very early on Friday morning. Really excited!  NOTE: GROSS CARD CON #2 (FEB 2018) — HAGGLING AT ENGSTROM'S TABLE May 5, 2017, Me — I hope you all enjoyed this show and had a lovely weekend; I know I did. It was such a special show and thanks again for always giving it your all and especially dealing with Topps. The cards turned out so nice and I'm happy you printed them yourself. Much sturdier and nicer. Thank you for all of my goodies, you always make me feel very special at the show. May 5, 2017, Roxanne — I thought the show was great. It was so much fun and I especially liked the dinner. It's going to be hard to top that show. A lot of the GPK collectors talked about coming back to the next show. If they do, they might be disappointed because I need to take a different direction. Aug 15, 2017, Roxanne — We haven't been in touch for a really long time. Hope all is well with you. We are planning to go to Vegas. You're going, aren't you? I've been working on the fall Philly Show but not with nearly as much enthusiasm as the spring show. Aug 23, 2017, Me — I hope you are well. I wanted to touch base to let you know that I will indeed be attending the show in Vegas and very much looking forward to seeing you and Marlin again so soon. If almost yearly sounds like 'soon'. Aug 24, 2017, Roxanne — Great!! The Colemans are setting up in Vegas. Dec 26, 2017, Roxanne — Hope you are having a happy holiday season. All is well here. For the spring Philly Show, we will be offering a 9-card TV Parody set. So what's new with you? Anything exciting going on? Dec 26, 2017, Me — Great to hear from you. I'm glad you touched base; it's been on my to-do list. I think that's a great idea for the Philly Show! That sounds like a fun project for any artist that jumps on board. |
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By 2018, Roxanne and
I entered our 'pen pal' stage of our friendship, often checking in
monthly, during three back-to-back PNS shows in 2018 and 2019 that
I had attended—where she graciously invited me to participate
in planning for some GPK-related promo cards that were to be printed—but
especially during COVID, starting in 2020, where our emails expanded
well beyond journal-entry correspondence. Due to the personal content
and nature of the emails, I wanted to extract specific content from
these entries to showcase just how dedicated Roxanne (Harris, Marlin,
etcetera) are for every aspect of the show, and this only slightly
reveals the process in getting trading cards published!
Jan 5, 2018, Roxanne — I haven't heard at all from two of the artists I asked to participate in the TV Parody set. They are Brent and Tom. Do you correspond with them? If so, could you ask if they've received my emails and if they're going to participate? It's getting later and later. Jan 5, 2018, Me — Hmmm... I have sent them both emails just moments ago. I know Topps had Brent working on the latest online set release this whole week. Tom's son was in town from Michigan for a spell. Jan 5, 2018, Roxanne — You worked magic--both of them answered me. Unfortunately, Tom said no. Here is what Brent sent. "Would this image work for the TV show set? Maybe a section could be cropped off to fit onto a card." I, of course, love it but can you tell me what it has to do with TV parodies? Harris says the file was labeled Twilight Zone but I somehow missed that. Jan 5, 2018, Me — I really love Brent's work, as I know you do too... especially these fun chaotic pieces. Perhaps it's more of a spoof on the Twilight Zone, than a true parody? I still think it would work well in a parody set, especially showing the character in true color and not B&W. Could you crop it down to a card-size and perhaps use the whole image as a bonus poster? OR, perhaps cut it in half and make a two-card puzzle? 
NOTE: ARTWORK ORIGINALLY COMMISSIONED BY JAMES HOUX / GPKCUSTOMS Jan 29, 2018, Roxanne — I found an almost complete set of French GPK. It's missing 22a & 31a. 8a is the same as the one you show on your site but I don't think you have a complete checklist. 1a is Stan SATAN. Do you think this is the French test set? Don't forget to contact Andy about your room. Jan 29, 2018, Me — I love that you're still finding stuff. Is it the French/Belgium mini set? I think it was released in Jordan, Belgium and France. Do you have the 3 variation cards for a total of 44 minus 2? Or the 41 minus the 2? Jan 29, 2018, Roxanne — Thanks. It is amazing that I keep finding stuff but I will be sad when it's all gone. This near set has the three variations. I'm bringing some items along to Vegas and will set up in my room. Jan 29, 2018, Me — Great, glad the three variations are included; you will have a fun room to attend! Feb 20, 2018, Roxanne — Joe Simko made it sound like a VIP badge would get you into the Sponge Bob breakfast but I told him I think you have to pay extra. He looked at it and said I'm probably right. Feb 20, 2018, Me — Well, I suppose we could attempt to strut into the Spongebob breakfast, see if we get thrown out. Feb 20, 2018, Roxanne — Yeah--let's try crashing the breakfast! Feb 27, 2018, Me — Warhola mentioned wanting to do the Spring 2019 Philly show, as you know; I know Mark [Pingitore] would love to return to the show and I'd love to get Bunk back there, especially if you decide to do a GPK/WP-esque-like set. Feb 27, 2018, Roxanne — We were talking to Kyle Drake on Monday night and mentioned how you used to buy GPK from me when you were a boy. I mentioned how there were three people Topps recommended and when you wrote to them, I was the only one who answered. Kyle said maybe if I hadn't answered you, we wouldn't have your fantastic site—really something to think about. Feb 28, 2018, Me — That is quite interesting, like the butterfly-effect, had you not answered I very much might not have ever started a website. Scary thought. I honestly cannot believe it's been up-and-running for 20 years this year.  NOTE: GROSS CARD CON #2 — ROXANNE WITH COLLECTORY KYLE DRAKE; THAT FACE. ADORABLE. Apr 4, 2018, Roxanne — I'm at the point where I wish this show was over because everything has been going wrong. Apr 4, 2018, Me — The more people I talk to, the more people are interested in a potential Philly Non-Sport show next year for your anniversary. June/Joe want to bring their friends, Bunk and myself... so I do hope you are able to do a GPK/WP theme or something. May 1, 2018, Me — Knowing if you two do not attend makes it easier for me not to attend [ed. Note: Vegas GCC show]. As you mentioned, I love the community aspect and visiting the artists and collectors, but it's just too expensive for an extended weekend getaway. May 1, 2018, Roxanne — Both Marlin and I said it was easier not to attend if you were not attending. Jun 1, 2018, Me — Here's Bunk's response: "Thanks for reminding me of the 2 Philly shows.. Next year Spring I don't know yet, but for this October I'd love to come. I've already put it in my calendar. I couldn't come last time for some reason. Anyway I would love to come. I hope I find the place, I remember last time we had to drive all over even with your smartphone. That's so super nice that you would sponsor me and organize the hotel etc...I'll figure something out to pay you back..." Jun 1, 2018, Roxanne — Really great about Tom! We'll take one thing at a time. As I said, fall comes before spring. Jul 25, 2018, Roxanne — I remember [the original show promoter] saying the show runs itself. What a joke! Aug 20, 2018, Me — PS, I know Brent is doing that GPK sketch for you from the Gross Card Con... that's another idea, even though he won't be at the show, but I believe he wants to make it Toser-themed... which might be nice for ALL attendees... or maybe for the Spring show?? Aug 20, 2018, Roxanne — We have to think of a theme for the cards (I do think we can get away with doing at least two). I would like to do something which goes together for both shows because this is probably a once in a lifetime opportunity [ed. Note: printing assistance from Topps]. I would like to have something for all show attendees but the most important thing is having special cards for the dinner. So Brent is actually doing the sketch from the Gross Card Con. A Toser-themed card might be good for all attendees. Let me know your thoughts on all of this. Aug 20, 2018, Me — I just asked Brent and he said "For sure!"... he leaves Wed for the CA GCC3 show, stopping in Denver to meet me for lunch, so I followed-up and asked if he thought he could shoot you a concept before he left. I'm hoping he can. That would be great. His would be more GPK-themed of course. Perhaps Chenduz could do something Wacky-themed? If it's two cards, one GPK and one Wacky, I wonder if you could push it and ask for an 'A' and 'B' name and come up with a Wacky concept that could have two different product names... depending on how many you can print for the dinner (or show attendees), perhaps you can have one GPK and WP for the Fall show... and they can get the matching one at the Spring show? You could place that in the ad as an incentive for people to attend both shows?? That might be stretching things, heheheh. More bang for our sponsor buck!! 
ROXANNE HOLDING SIMKO'S GIFTED CARD ARTWORK (WITH ORIGINAL WHITE BACKGROUND) Aug 21, 2018, Roxanne — I'm afraid to ask about deadlines but just think we need to do this as soon as we can before they change their minds. If Brent would do a Toser sketch (Me, Marlin and Harris) in the GPK style, we could try to get a Topps copyright approval and print these cards to give to everyone at the show. Maybe we would get some done in metal, too. This Toser sketch would be what he was supposed to do for me from the Gross Card Con. I was up for two hours during the night thinking of ideas for the dinner cards. I kept trying to not think about them but couldn't stop! Here is what I came up with so far. Let me know what you think. [Word doc.] Fall: GPK – Pumpkin head and sexy body called Hedy Pumpkin – "a" card & "b" card? Wacky – Brand of candy corn or other Halloween candy – could have corn on the cob in candy form and pieces should be on GPK card – "a" card & "b" card? Spring: GPK – Face in a flower called May Flower – "a" card & "b" card? Wacky – Brand of flour – tie it together with the GPK – "a" card & "b" card? Backs of cards numbered 1 of 4, etc. or 1 of 8, etc. On the Fall backs "Finish your set at the Spring Show on May 4 & 5, 2019"; All should have Philly Non-Sports Card Show, Roxanne Toser Ent. and Topps info Aug 21, 2018, Me — I think your dinner card ideas are GREAT, I'm a big fan of the Autumn/Fall and Spring seasons, so I really like the thematic tie-ins for both GPK and Wacky. Also, I think it's a great idea if the sketch that Brent does with the Toser theme is handed out to everyone, that would be wonderful. I let Brent know and awaiting his response... metal cards would be REALLY nice. Aug 21, 2018, Roxanne — I'm glad you like my ideas. I'll ask Chenduz to do one set and who should I ask to do the other set? It has to be someone who will work fast. What about Fred Wheaton? I really liked what he did for the TV Parody set. Should we have "a" and "b" versions which would mean eight cards or should we leave well enough alone and go with four? Aug 21, 2018, Me — Engstrom's colored Toser sketch-turned-to-card could have a Fall-name and Spring-name, too(?). If Topps agrees to eight cards, why not?!? Here are my thoughts: Fall: GPK: Simko
-- "HEDY Pumpkin" + "Squash TASH" (short for
Natasha, Tasha) WP: Chenduz "OLD Petal" Flower * Power * Powder ALL PURPOSE Flower [Flour used to be spelled Flower ... 'the best part' of wheat] ... not sure this makes sense... Aug 21, 2018, Roxanne — I need to go shopping to look at Halloween candy and it shows you how little cooking and baking I do because I couldn't think of a name of a flour brand. I'll have to wait until after Santa Clara to ask Joe but he's very dependable and I think he'll be fast. As soon as I figure out candy, I'll ask Fred. The artists are supposed to do color sketches for their sponsors so you should make arrangements with Tom so maybe he'll be able to bring it to the show. Aug 22, 2018, Roxanne — Joe and Fred are all set with their assignments. Chenduz is jumping for joy to do a card. In fact, he would do more than one. Should I let him do both cards for the Spring show? He could get started on it right away and have it done by Sep 12. If I ask Smokin' Joe or Layron, it will be a little tight for them. What do you think? Aug 22, 2018, Me — If Layron could make the deadline, he'd be my pick. Let Layron know Joe, Fred and Brent have their assignments. I know he has a lot of Marvel work, etc. on his plate at times. I'll message Brent now (if you haven't already) to let him know you have to have the artwork to Topps by the 12th. Aug 23, 2018, Me — It would be cool to see the Tosers image with an official GPK logo... and if you don't have to print it yourselves. But we can always wait to see what Brent turns in and see how you feel? If you print it yourselves, you could give it an A-name for the Fall show and a B-name for the Spring show. Sep 6, 2018, Me — I've been in correspondence with Tom; he'll be back on the 20th but said he could do a really nice image with ink and color pencils while he's in Washington State. Sep 6, 2018, Roxanne — That's it now--no more changes. Tom might want to theme his card around Halloween. Sep 6, 2018, Me — Bunk is totally on board; he said his head was already buzzing with ideas. He said he could do a Spring/May one next year if you're interested. Pingitore sent a color-rough card mock up (he said he's painting it early next week). I have not heard from Engstrom as of yet, but I'll poke the bear. Sep 10, 2018, Me — Bunk created the image for the Halloween card over the weekend with the materials he had from the Gross Card Con and just sent it to me 30mins ago completed. Sep 10, 2018, Roxanne — Tom's card is great! I'm going to send it to Harris to see what he needs to do with it. Sep 10, 2018, Me — I know Brent worked on the background to the image last night and I believe is going to do the main characters tonight. I'd imagine it will be done by Wed... and the deadline is the 21st so I'm sure he'll have it in on time. Pingitore mentioned he'd have his done early in the week, too. Sep 10, 2018, Roxanne — Thanks for being such a big help.  Sept 12, 2018, Harris — Hi Mom: Here you go. This is really something. Sept 12, 2018, Roxanne — Hi Aaron, Not sure whether or not you got this. I love it! [ed. Note: Engstrom's artwork.] Sep 15, 2018, Harris — Aaron~ You have been a HUGE help to us on these and I'm hoping you can help a bit more. Do one of you want to write up some text for the area where I have filler text? [ed. Note: reverse mock-up card image.] I bet you could come up with something good. My mother is good at this stuff too but as this is calling for a Ghostbusters/GPK related thing, I think maybe you should try? Sep 16, 2018, Me — Harris/Roxanne, I'm attaching (by pasting) the reverse cart text drafts to this correspondence. For Bunk's card I really tried to channel Lynch's poetry work found on the backs of the Meanie Babies and Bathroom Buddies cards; although, mine's a bit longer with a 10-syllable pseudo-sonnet. For Brent's card I really did go for more of a factual than fantastical approach, but I figured Roxanne could also add, embellish or delete information as needed. Her potion concoction
boils and bubbles,  
CONS & FESTS PAGE: The Non-Sport Philly Card Show took place in Allentown, PA during the weekend of October 20th and 21st and included a promo card for all attendees that was a Ghostbusters parody piece by artist BRENT Engstrom which paid specific tribute to the Tosers whom took over organizing for the show in 2012 and have been instrumental within the non-sport card community for several decades, starting out with a mail-order business and then publishing the Non-Sport Update collector magazine. The social-media promotional ad is pictured above along with Engstrom's final artwork that was updated with the Tosers uncanny likenesses. This particular promo is card '1a' with a different background, nomenclature and reverse card text to go with the May 2019 '1b' promo card. Sep 23, 2018, Roxanne — I really like the art in the new set so I decided to go to Target to see if I could find any. I haven’t opened up packs for a long time and it was fun. Oct 23, 2018, Roxanne — I know you're traveling but today is the day I'm doing thank-you notes so I'm sending this. I have so much to thank you for. Being a sponsor, being a writer, helping with cards from Brent and Tom and just being there and being you. Oct 24, 2018, Me — Good morning Roxanne, Thank you for your email and for your very kind words; I'm always excited and happy to help out, especially considering how much hard work you put into these events. The show was, once again, wonderful and already looking forward to the May show. |
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Dec
17, 2018, Me
— Brent let me know that he's hoping one of his GPK images for
the next Gross Card Con will be the original Ghostbusters/Gozer artwork
he completed before he decided to make the characters more in your
guys' uncanny likeness; so that would be nice to have on card side-by-side;
both image releases.
CONS & FESTS PAGE: The Gross Card Con / GCC4 took place in Las Vegas, Nevada during the weekend of March 1st through 3rd, 2019 at the Super Toy Con. The artists were asked to complete two images for the exlusive card set, a surfing character and/or a popular toy character(s). Engstrom created a Ghostbusters/Gozer parody concept and a Star Wars/Boba Fett parody concept for his promo card characters, both found within the GPK artists card set that was given away exclusively at the convention to V.I.P. holders at different events or sold as a set at the 'GPK & Wacky Warehouse' booth. Warehouse had the cards printed up for the convention with card backs. The Gozer gag was originally created for the 69th Philly Non-Sports Card Show, as seen in the post above (& below), but the image was given a make-over and updated digitially to enhance the Tosers caricatures as a tribute to the showrunners, and the Ghostbusters image was eventually used for the Gross Card Con event. 
Jan 20, 2019, Roxanne — I went over some of the plans for the show with Harris and here is where we stand. We will give Brent's card out to everyone attending the show, as we did last time. He said he could change the background colors so would you please ask him to do this. We'll make the other changes. Jan 22, 2019, Me — Bunk told me he would like to do a Spring Philly show image/card if you don't mind an extra entry ... maybe a 'to everyone' card? ... he says they're fun to do. I told him a spring-related GPKid. I can work on a new poem for the reverse card back. Jan 22, 2019, Roxanne — All sounds good. We certainly would never turn down a card from Tom. Feb 6, 2019, Me — Brent mentioned he was sending you both the re-colored background image for his May Philly '1b' card at some point today. I thought card '1a' was a great short biography and '1b' could touch upon the parody aspect of the card(s) and show. I wanted to send over the reverse card text/type that I had worked on after getting the assignment since Brent has turned in his homework already. Of course, open to heavy editing, suggestions, overhauls, etc. Feb 6, 2019, Roxanne — Hi Aaron, Great job! Thanks so much. CARD TEXT: Showrunner Roxanne ‘Gozer’ Toser has been surrounded by parody product humor ever since she found herself at the epicenter of the non-sport trading card scene during the 70s; glued to the Wacky Packages fad since the 60s and stuck on the Garbage Pail Kids craze of the 80s. And, much like her Ghostbusters Gozer character gag, she performs reconnaissances in this non-sport card world … leading to the publication of The Beat Goes On pamphlets in 1988 and 1997, organizing special events (like this!), attending conventions, et cetera … constantly aided by her trusty canine cohorts, Hound-dog HARRIS and Mutty MARLIN. 
ROXANNE WITH SON HARRIS HOLDING GPK SIGNAGE: THESE WERE A BIG HIT AT THE SHOW Mar 8, 2019, Me — Tom emailed me and mentioned you had been in contact with him. Since he's older and these shows are starting to wear him out a bit I suggested we drive to Allentown Friday afternoon and stay two nights at the Hilton. So please put Bunk down for both nights and I'll be sure to pay the sponsorship (and book my hotel room for two nights) by April 12th. Mar 14, 2019, Me — I just purchased my ticket to NYC; Bunk will pick me up Thursday (from the airport) and we'll make our way to Allentown Friday afternoon ... getting excited. Mar 17, 2019, Roxanne — Is Tom doing a card? I think he was going to. Mar 18, 2019, Me — Yes, Tom is doing a card; he's in the process of coming up with the concept and has titled it 'Flower Potty Kids' for the logo. Once he sends over a rough sketch I'll start on the card type and character name. The deadline is early April, right, for printing? Mar 18, 2019, Roxanne — I love the name of Tom's card and can hardly wait to see it. Yes, the deadline is April 5. Did we decide to offer his card only on Sunday, along with one of Neil's? This gets so confusing. We have Brent's card for all attendees, Neil is doing one for the dinner, Mark is doing one for everyone. Do I have this straight? Mar 20, 2019, Roxanne — I hope Tom will be ok. More important about his health than the card but I found out today, we really need the card no later than April 5. Please keep me up-to-date on how he is doing. Mar 20, 2019, Me — He's feeling much better and is in greater spirits; I can tell just by his typed word. And, he said he was almost done with the 'spring' Philly artwork so that sounded promising in regard to the deadline.  Mar 24, 2019, Me — I just received Tom's spring card image today; it's EXCELLENT. I'll send it to both you and Harris after I send this email off. Not sure of a name... maybe "Floral-Scent Flora'? I'll start thinking of a poem this week for the reverse card back of Tom's character. Mar 24, 2019, Roxanne — Tom's card is fantastic! Mar 24, 2019, Me to Harris — Tom wanted to make the logo POP so he changed it and wanted to send a hi-res version. Mar 24, 2019, Harris — Looks great Aaron. I really like it!! Mar 26, 2019, Me [ed. Note: after card back mock-up.] — My only input is from Bunk, he had wished my name was on the backside of the first card and was wondering if it could be placed on the second card? I swear Bunk suggested it! Mar 27, 2019, Me — How do you feel about this poem draft? I'm hoping this captures the essence of spring cleaning, flora, etc. from a 'users' P.O.V. Mar 27, 2019, Roxanne — Hi Aaron, I love it! If the john goes septic it might not flush, Tackle with elbow grease, plunger and brush… Beware! Under Maintenance! Toilet clogged, Danger! Out of Order! Bowl backlogged… While weeds flourish among the stink and rot, Both adult and tot perish on the pot... Say a quick prayer, hold your breath and nose, Equipped with an axe and a fire hose… The potted plant eats anything in sight, Critter, grime, litter, slime; put up a fight! Mar 29, 2019, Roxanne — I think I asked you this before but I forget what you told me. Harris was asking how old you were when you first corresponded with me. so how many years has it been? Mar 30, 2019, Me — I'm 46 now... I wrote to you in seventh grade, so I must've been 12 (Dec birthday so started school late) ... so it will be 35 years this autumn, I believe?? Crazy! Mar 30, 2019, Me — Thirty-five years! Amazing! Apr 5, 2019, Roxanne — What time will you and Tom arrive at the hotel on Friday? Apr 5, 2019, Me — Tom and I have all day Friday to leisurely get ready for Allentown [so] I'm aiming to arrive between the 3pm check-in time & 4pm timeframe. I'm glad to be there two evenings for once, that one night goes way too fast trying to catch up with everyone. Apr 23, 2019, Me — I wanted to follow-up regarding transporting Chenduz Saturday and Sunday; Bunk mentioned; "Sure we can drive Chenduz around, he is nice."   CONS & FESTS PAGE: The Non-Sport Philly Card Show took place in Allentown, PA during the weekend of May 4th and 5th and included a promo card for all attendees that was a Ghostbusters parody piece by artist BRENT Engstrom which paid specific tribute to the Tosers whom took over organizing for the show in 2012 and have been instrumental within the non-sport card community for several decades, starting out with a mail-order business and then publishing the Non-Sport Update collector magazine. The social-media promotional ad is pictured above along with Engstrom's final artwork containing the Tosers' uncanny likenesses. This particular promo is card '1b' with a different background, nomenclature and reverse card text to go with the October 2018 '1a' promo card. May 14, 2019, Roxanne — Hope you had a great time at the show and with the Simko's. I thought this was one of the best shows we ever had--if not, the best show. May 14, 2019, Me — Great to hear from you. I had such a great time with Tom at the Philly show and the week with Joe and June.  May 16, 2019, Me — I wanted to let you know that I received the package you generously sent out today, thank you so much(!). I went into the office yesterday and handed out my PNS card to several coworkers. I tried to attend as many shows as possible over the years, but it never felt like enough. I was presented a 'Philly Non-Sports Show' card by Roxanne and the Toser family, with my likeness and name, at the spring 2019 show... I was gobsmacked. I cannot put into words what this gesture meant to me. I'm an introvert by nature, and quite anxious at times, so I tend to keep a pretty low profile (even on social media)... avoid public speaking, etcetera... and at times think of the website as a journal, enjoying the research aspect, especially since I'm not very tech savvy; so a reminder like this, that I'm actually part of this trading-card community, comes to a shock to me at times, heh. Strange, but true! |
|
Roxanne
has always had a strict rule of never inviting the same artist to
back-to-back Philly Non-Sports card shows, to mix things up, and to
always change up the theme. I can't help but feel my involvement in
these three connecting shows may have skewed her beliefs a bit! I
was a bad influence on her, in a good way. But they were magical times
and fun. Although the new Expo location for the show is great, I do
miss the old Merchants Square Mall, the cafeteria smell, the upstairs
'WWF' museum, the corner diner, Red Robin aftershows. Roxanne soon
had me become an involuntary volunteer, giving all of the artists
bathroom breaks (as I sat in their seats as a placeholder saying "The
artist will be right back!'), grabbing them lunches, and running errands
for everyone.
May 30, 2019, Roxanne — Brent is coming to the October 19 and 20 show! I just heard from him and am very excited. I'm going to invite Joe and hope he can come. May 30, 2019, Me — That is wonderful news about Brent attending the autumn show! I wonder with Brent on the bill if that would be a nice incentive for Joe, I hope he's not too busy. May 30, 2019, Roxanne — I'm one step ahead of you. Joe is coming to the show and I'm hoping you will come, too. May 31, 2019, Harris — Our GPK cover is finally out. Thank you again for your PEEL HERE suggestion. I think it came out pretty cool. Hope the issue is received well. By the way, did my mother tell you our artist news for the next show? May 31, 2019, Me — So Cool!! YES, super stoked Brent and Joe will be attending; happy to hear Brent is finally making the journey again and glad Joe is free. May 31, 2019, Roxanne — I am going to ask Brent and Joe if they will collaborate on a card which we can sell to pay for travel and hotel for the two of them. 
Jun 2, 2019, Roxanne — Joe and Brent have been speaking and they have a fantastic idea for collaborating on a card. They would stitch themselves together as GPK characters! Jun 2, 2019, Me — I will definitely try to make that trip happen and Joe has already let me know that I can stay at their place again and travel with them to make things cheaper/easier. Jun 9, 2019, Me — I'm so excited for the GPK card that Brent and Joe are working on... and, I hope Ira can make a possible license happen with it. Exciting times for parody and satire. Jun 9, 2019, Roxanne — We really don't have a theme for the show [...] it will be an artist thing with an emphasis on Brent and Joe (so GPK). I will get in touch with Ira this week about the Brent/Joe card. We will probably only do 100. Brent sent me a rough of the card and it will be great. I'll let you know what Ira says. Jun 11, 2019, Roxanne — BREAKING NEWS!!! Marlin looked in a cabinet in the basement this evening and it's loaded with GPK items! Jun 11, 2019, Me — That is wonderful news, I KNEW you'd find more GPK items in your basement!! And, right in time for a fall show with some GPK artists in attendance. Jun 17, 2019, Me — Joe just sent out a message to Brent and myself about planning the trip out to Manhattan and renting a minivan for the show. Jun 17, 2019, Ira to Roxanne — I like the idea for this and am in favor of seeing it happen. Let me connect with [Topps] on the card side and get their input. Jun 17, 2019, Me — PROMISING. I figured he'd really enjoy the great idea. Jun 17, 2019, Roxanne — Very exciting!  Jun 19, 2019, Roxanne — We will also do some metal cards. Harris has a great idea about putting the artwork on a cake and serving cake and coffee. Paul Maleiro from Chicago once did that with an NSU cover and it was so nice. Don't tell anyone about this idea. Do you have any ideas for what we could call such a gathering? Jun 19, 2019, Me — Maybe the show after-hours can be called a 'Social Meet & Greet' (or something)? Very laid back and casual. Will you do a bio write-up for the backside of the card on the artists? Brent and I will be flying into NYC on Wed and heading to Joe's place; so Joe is gonna rent a minivan for the weekend and we'll arrive early Saturday for the show. I started to look at airfare. Already getting excited. Jun 19, 2019, Roxanne — Gee, I wonder who could do a bio write-up on the back of the card (hint, hint)? Jun 20, 2019, Roxanne — I wrote to [Topps] today but, so far, no answer. Jun 20, 2019, Me — Both Brent and Joe say it takes [them] forever to respond, if ever. Jun 20, 2019, Roxanne — Terrific. That's not my style. I like to get things going. I'll give [them] a week. Jun 21, 2019, Me — I woke up in the middle of the night and started to think about the special card. Do you think Topps would agree to 2 cards of 100 printed? An A-name and B-name? Joe and Brent are over-the-moon about this project, and I thought it would be extra special if they had their own personal card as well. For example, 1a Paint Job JOE and 2b Brushwork Brent; the "job/work" being a nod to their Topps illustration work and the fact they're holding an airbrush and paintbrush, respectively. The backside could contain a small bio for both artists and be the same--currently working on that. The GPK logo for each card could be a different color and the nameplate for each card be a different color; mix it up colorfully since it's all about painting. JUST some thoughts of course. Plus, I think collectors would really like a pair of traditional GPK cards, A+B. Jun 21, 2019, Roxanne — Nice to know I'm not the only person who wakes up in the middle of the night and thinks about the show. I can remember many years ago I had a frozen shoulder and I really had a hard time sleeping. I told Jay about it and he said I should call him anytime during the night because he would probably be up. Jay's philosophy was go to bed when you're tired and not go by the clock. Jun 21, 2019, Me — I loved hearing that story about Jay, that is great, made me smile. Here's a rough draft of the 'Topps GPK Bio' for the artists, so you know where my head is at ... playing off of their conjoined GPK attachment. Jun 21, 2019, Roxanne — Hi Aaron, Really, really good! [ed. Note: final text heavily truncated by Topps due to space.] Separately, Artist Brent Engstrom began illustrating for Topps in 2005 for the All-New Series 5 GPK set, while artist Joe Simko started working for Topps in 2009 for the Flashback Series 1 GPK set. Conjointly, both artists have participated in nearly every Garbage Pail Kids release since, from the Brand-New Series sets through the Yearly Series releases, including a plethora of exclusive online content. Collectively, their popular works of art can be found within several GPK projects for various clients including: IDW Publishing, Funko, Ripple Junction, WWE, FYE, Fright-Rags, Super7, Greenlight, etc. Combined, Brent and Joe have worked on more than 25 retail set releases and have painted over 1200 GPK images. We look forward to many more years of GPK artwork from these two amazing artists! 
Jun 25, 2019, Roxanne — Yay!! Fast reply and a good one. Topps — "This sounds like a fun idea, you can give the artists the go-ahead for the card." Jun 25, 2019, Me — Wonderful news Roxanne; Brent told me he started to airbrush the image, so I'm excited to see his half and then Joe's half completed; a very exciting project and promo card! Jun 26, 2019, Roxanne — I told Joe the names you came up with and the idea of different colors. Both he and Brent like your ideas and will use them. We sent an add to the Wrapper announcing the collaboration. Jun 26, 2019, Me — That sounds wonderful. And, I'm sure Les is happy for the Wrapper ad. I think the collaboration was such a good idea of theirs/yours and very happy Topps is on board. Jul 16, 2019, Roxanne — I'm waiting until after San Diego to contact Joe to see what's going on with the special card. Jul 16, 2019, Me — I believe Joe was completing a few GPK due for the next set in January (2020S1), early images for the sell sheets, etc. Brent said he was sending it to Joe to complete his half... so he must be saving it until after the SDCC show; he takes off Friday for the event. So excited to see this piece when it's done. Jul 17, 2019, Roxanne — Spent most of today working on a newsletter for our synagogue. The person who did it before passed away and somehow I ended up with the job. I would much rather be working on Garbage Pail Kids! July 22, 2019, Joe to Roxanne — Here's a peek at the final painting Brent and I did. I painted me, and Brent painted himself. I will send you a link to the hi res file in just a bit. July 22, 2019, Me — Wonderful, WOW! Are you happy with it?!? (wink) 
Jul 23, 2019, Roxanne — [Topps is] worried there is too much text for the back. I told [them], if need be to delete the paragraph starting with "Collectively." Hope that's ok. Jul 24, 2019, Me — I agree 100%, that would've been the weakest paragraph to be deleted and I figured some editing would come into play eventually. I of course trust and respect your keen eye and editing skills. We're getting closer and closer to the card being realized which is exciting. Aug 15, 2019, Roxanne — I will make sure Harris lets you know when he begins showing either the completely finished artwork or at least the final from Joe so you can begin sharing it. Sep 4, 2019, Topps to Roxanne — Attached are the images for the cards. Sep 9, 2019, Me — I feel bad I brought up the grammatical errors of the card nomenclature, it was something I noticed but if it can be corrected on time--wonderful--but it's pretty minimal within the larger picture. Sep 10, 2019, Roxanne — Here is the corrected artwork and the card backs. Sep 16, 2019, Roxanne — The metal cards will be card size and will be free to all attendees [Meet & Greet]. We are planning to have 70 sets printed to have just a few extras. Oct 15, 2019, Me — Philly is almost upon us! I'll be seeing you very soon. CONS & FESTS PAGE: The Non-Sport Philly (PNS) Card Show took place in Allentown, PA during the weekend of October 19th and 20th and included two official Topps promo cards printed for the weekend event and two exclusive metal cards printed by Faerie Metal for the Saturday night Meet and Greet. A duo Garbage Pail Kids character was painted by artists JOE Simko and BRENT Engstrom, a combined tribute to the Topps GPK parody brand and the popular OS stitched together characters; think Mixed-Up MITCH with a Double HEATHER feel. 100 cards of each twin were printed by Topps and sold at the show to cover travel and lodging expenses for the artists. The special metal cards were kept to the number of attendees at the Meet and Greet with a 64 limit headcount and created and printed by Faerie Metal. The cards numbered 1a Paint-Job JOE and 1b Brushwork BRENT, for Simko and Engstrom, respectively. Per artist Brent Engstrom on social media after the concept stage: "I'm on an official gpk card along with Joe Simko. I painted my half and then mailed it off to Joe to paint his half. As far as I know it's a GPK first!"  CONS & FESTS PAGE: The promo card image contains final artwork from various GPK projects and sets for both Simko and Engstrom, including the PNS artwork right in the middle above their heads. Joe's side contains artwork from the 2018S1 We Hate the '80s set, '80s Culture subset for cards 2a Neon ART and 2b Futuristic RIC, the FYE Garbage Pail Kids cereal, from the 2019 Valentine's Day is Gross online set for cards 1a ADAM Bomb and 1b Blasted Billy, and from the 2018S1 We Hate the '80s set, The Golbergs subset for cards 1a A.V. ADAM and 1b Grand GOLDBERG, for the creator and director Adam F. Goldberg. Brent's side contains artwork from the 2013 BNS2 set for cards 131a Hoodie HARLAN and 131b Inside Out OSCAR, from the 2017 Halloween online set for cards 8a Fiery FREDDY and 8b Roasted ROBERT, from the 2018S2 Oh, the Horror-ilbe! set, Modern Horror subset for cards 14a Mute MICHAEL and 14b Hollow DEAN, and from the 2019 WWE x GPK online set for card #13 Undead TAKER. I was excited to attend the show and felt privileged that the Tosers had me be a part of the Engstrom and Simko project by providing the reverse card text and the nomenclature that ties into the amazing artwork and theme by Joe and Brent; freelance job/work.  Oct 22, 2019, Roxanne to Ira — I think I mentioned I tried on the Chalk Line jacket the day it arrived and really liked it. At the dinner, the jacket was one of the prizes so I offered either $50 cash or the jacket. Three-year old Zy Simko won the jacket and I told him with $50 he could buy lots of toys. I ended up with the jacket as you can see by the pictures Aaron Booton sent (did he tell you I used to sell him GPK back in the 80s?). Even though I had a nice outfit to wear on Sunday, I wore the jacket instead. Lots of fun as people were teasing me about conning a three-year old out of the jacket. Oct 25, 2019, Roxanne — This is really funny! I said, yes. Oct 25, 2019 , Ira to Roxanne — I forwarded your photos to our partner for these jackets, ChalkLine. The principal, Ilan Friedman (no relation), asked if they can use these for their social media efforts. Are you OK with this request? Please let me know. PS. This could be your big chance to become a viral sensation. Oct 25, 2019, Roxanne — I wore my [ChalkLine WWE + GPK] jacket to my Mah Jong games this week and expected my friends to roll their eyes but they all loved it. |
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Jan 6, 2020,
Roxanne —
Last Sunday, we had a Chanukah party at our
synagogue. Shortly after we got to the synagogue, a fellow came
in and said he was an AP reporter. He did have credentials around
his neck but Harris is not trusting and took a picture of him when
he wasn't looking. Anyway, he wanted to interview people because
of what had happened in New York the night before at the Rabbi's
house. Eventually,
his sister came in. As soon as I saw her, I thought she looked familiar.
Turned out, she's an allergist and I had just seen her within the
last two weeks when she tested me for allergies. Really small world
but at least we knew for sure the reporter was real. I
was sent a link to the AP article the next morning and began reading
the article before Marlin got home from breakfast. I have not laughed
so hard for a long time. The reporter quoted Harris as being the
caretaker of the synagogue and, to boot, spelled his name Horris.
I knew Harris would have a fit and he did. How the reporter got
things so mixed up is anybody's guess. Harris said he hoped his
sister the doctor was a better doctor than he was a reporter! One
of the local TV stations saw the article and called the number belonging
to Larry Kapenstein (the real caretaker) and asked for Horris. Mar 29, 2020, Roxanne — We had a phone call yesterday. Got a call from a guy who thought he was calling NSU. He was perplexed because Creature Features (I assume 1980) is only $30 and if you add up cards and stickers selling at 25 cents each, it adds up to $60. He was looking at a 1994 issue of the magazine. Marlin spoke with him but I heard the conversation. He asked if card prices were going up or down. Has he been out of card collecting for the last 28 years? Mar 29, 2020, Roxanne — Everyone teases me about cooking because with the magazine and constant interruptions, I pretty much stopped. Apr 25, 2020, Roxanne — It is a really bad year to celebrate GPK 35. [ed. Note: COVID.] Apr 29, 2020, Roxanne — Gary Gerani contacted me recently. He's working on some books which sound interesting. He also has stuff he wants to sell with the first thing being an uncut 2nd series ET sheet. It's crazy but I have one of those, too and have it framed. I loved that movie and bought a lot of ET stuff (not nearly as much as GPK!). I can't remember where I got it. May 8, 2020, Roxanne — I just had a pleasant surprise. Ira called me. We talked about your visit to Topps. He liked you a whole lot and liked the story of how long we've known each other and how you first contacted me. I mentioned Brent being "sort of" quiet and he said "sort of!" very quiet but liked him, too. He's been in email contact with Clint and when I said how nice Clint is, he said Clint spoke highly of me, too. Isn't this nice.....everyone likes everyone! May 25, 2020, Roxanne — I keep going back and forth about the October show. One day, I think it will definitely be canceled and the next day, I think there's a possibility. Jul 28, 2020, Roxanne — I know this will not be a surprise but here is an official announcement we are canceling the October 2020 show. The dates for 2021 are May 15 & 16 and October 16 & 17. Stay safe and well. The guy at the Merchants Square Mall is giving me some flack which I expected. I can see his point but I hope he can see ours. We are going to send him some money and hope that will keep us on his good side--if he has one. July 28, 2020, Me — Hahaha, "--if he has one." That is extremely generous of you; I'd do the same thing to keep the peace. Good, I'm glad Joe, Dave and hopefully the promos are still on the books! Jul 28, 2020, Roxanne — Oh, I don't think I told you. [...] is having a virtual show because our governor changed the criteria to only 25 people in a gathering. [What] complete dope for even thinking about having a show at the end of July (this coming weekend). [ed. Note: down from 50, due to COVID] 
Jul 31, 2020, Harris — As you know, we cancelled the Fall Philly Non-Sports Card Show and also cancelled the Spring show last May. In order to keep collectors engaged, we thought about moving a piece of the show online and holding a series of Card Talk-like sessions on the weekend of the show. Most would be with manufacturers but we also thought it would be cool to have one or two with artists. I was wondering if you would be interested in moderating those? They would be with GPK/Wacky artists, assuming we could get them to participate. I know this is not something you relish but any chance you might be interested? Either way, please keep this under your hat for now until we announce it. Aug 3, 2020, Me — Thanks for remembering my lack of enthusiasm talking in public, heheheh, the very idea got me a bit nervous. I have gotten a bit more used to Zoom because of work meetings. But, it does sound like a fun/good idea if you're able to get participating artists, et cetera. Maybe we could co-moderate?? Keep me posted if you can, this sounds very cool for the community! Aug 24, 2020, Roxanne — Need a quick answer on this. We are having some trouble getting an artist to do one of the promo cards for the virtual sessions. Right now, we are thinking either [Chenduz] or [???]. Who do you think would be better? Aug 24, 2020, Me — I think Chenduz would be a better fit. Chris Meeks (Flash/Crash Gordon x GPK) is turning in some nice online material... and Jason Crosby has completed the GPK x Mars Attacks pack set... they all might be good candidates if you wanted 'new blood'. Aug 24, 2020, Roxanne — Thanks for the quick response. Sep 4, 2020, PNS [blast email] — SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT Like so many 2020 events, the Philly Non-Sports Card Show has gone virtual. But unlike other virtual events, this one comes with cards! And not virtual cards but exclusive, red-border Philly Show cards. Read on.... Sep 10, 2020, Harris — Looks like Aaron put the Virtual Philly link on his page. We've gotten a few new sign-ups in the past hour. Thanks Aaron! I see you've signed up too. This is all new to us so it should be interesting to say the least! I sure hope it goes smoothly though I do expect the first 15 minutes of the first session to be madness. I probably shouldn't have scheduled Topps for the first one! Nov 1, 2020, Roxanne — I preordered my Welcome to Smellville book from Amazon and it sounds like I'm supposed to get some extras. Do you have any idea how I go about this? Nov 1, 2020, Me — The prize packs were supposed to be handed out at the SDCC; since that didn't happen Abrams ended up setting up an entry form page; the item would not come from the retailer (in this case, Amazon). Nov 1, 2020, Roxanne — Oh, well. Thanks. I told you I'm out of things. * Feb 3, 2021, Me — I'm not sure if it's appropriate to recommend this show, perhaps I should run it by Harris first... but there's a British show that Amazon Prime picked up called 'Friday Night Dinner' that revolves around a Jewish family that gathers for dinner... (you guessed it)... every Friday night. There is quite a bit of foul language and 'crude' topics, but I have been laughing-out-loud a lot. Feb 3, 2021, Roxanne — Thanks for the tip about Friday Night Dinner. I certainly will give it a try. Don't worry about the foul language. We have watched some crazy shows during the pandemic. Of course, I can't think of any risque shows to tell you we've watched but nothing is shocking anymore. Sept 29, 2021, Roxanne — At one point, Ira said he would try to come to the show but now he said he and his family are going on a trip at the same time. I asked for prizes and he sent me a box with 48 t-shirts--yes, 48!! GPK and Wrestling. Now all I have to do is think of something clever to do with them. Thought you would appreciate this. |
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Feb
16, 2022, Me —
Tom had sold some pieces of artwork, so reached
out to me Monday to have me update the website, I mentioned my ordeal
[ed Note: appendix removed!] and he said in his best Bunk tongue,
"I was many times in the ER, good to be safe and surrounded
by doctors and beeping machines. Yes, the nurses are a pain, coming
every 5 minutes to check, they wake you up and ask if you are sleeping..."
hahaha, boy did that really make me laugh... It also made my stomach
hurt, but it was worth it. So true. Born in Kingston, Pennsylvania, Roxanne was the daughter of Maurice and Rae Payne (later Rae Urie.) After relocating to Harrisburg at the age of two, Roxanne was later a proud graduate of William Penn High School in 1950. She continued her education at HACC and Penn State University—while raising her three sons. Roxanne is survived by her husband Marlin, to whom she was a devoted wife for sixty-eight incredible years. She was a loving mother to her sons, Barry (Jody), of Vienna, Virginia; Marc (Cathy) of Carlisle, Pennsylvania; and Harris of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; an adoring grandmother to her granddaughters, Becca and Mia; and a cherished sister to her brother, Michael (Barbara) Payne of Ambler, Pennsylvania, all of whom also survive her. Roxanne, more than anything, loved spending time with her family. A true trailblazer, Roxanne was a pioneering entrepreneur who operated a mail-order business for fifteen years and founded the national magazine Non-Sport Update, which she ran for twenty-five years. Roxanne was the foremost authority on non-sports trading cards in the United States, exhibiting at eighty Philly Non-Sports Card shows among many others. Through this pursuit, she formed hundreds of dear friendships, impacting many people across the United State and beyond. Through her business, Roxanne had a life full of unique experiences, including appearances in the documentary “30 Years of Garbage: The Garbage Pail Kids Story” and an upcoming feature about the nephew of Andy Warhol, James Warhola. Her passions extended far beyond business. Roxanne was an avid and expert mahjong player for over sixty years, a super-shopper with an eye for the best deals, and a dedicated board member of the Historic B’nai Jacob Synagogue, where her grandfather was an original member in 1904. Roxanne will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her love, spirit, and remarkable achievements. Hetrick Bitner Funeral Home has been trusted with the arrangements. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. at Chisuk Emuna Cemetery Chapel at 52 N 34th Street, Harrisburg, on Monday, December 16th, with Rabbi Ron Muroff officiating. Shiva services will be held on Tuesday, December 17th, and Wednesday, December 18th, from 12:00 – 4:00 pm, with a religious service to follow, at Historic B’nai Jacob Synagogue at 220 Nissley Street in Middletown. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Historic B’nai Jacob Synagogue, PO Box 118, Middletown, PA 17057 or through their website at www.bnai-jacob.org. |
  
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