Those with VIP passes turned out in droves for the annual National VIP Party. It was held one hour before the show floor of the 40th National Sports Collectors Convention at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center opened on Wednesday and there was plenty of food, drink… and autographs. According to the show’s organizers, the VIP party was the largest to date. VIP packages this year started at $139.
Food was Chicago-themed, with burgers to go along with different kinds of thin and Chicago “Deep Dish” pizza. There was no running out of food and drink with different stations throughout the room offering the nourishment.
The annual VIP Party raffle took place halfway through the event and featured autographed artwork and collectibles from the likes of Jerry Rice to Jennifer Lawrence. You had to be present to win.
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VIP Party at The National with Ryan Klesko, Drew Pearson & Bill Cartwright signing autographs.
The highlight of the evening was the free autograph signings by Former New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls center, Bill Cartwright; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver, Drew Pearson and 16-year MLB player, Ryan Klesko.
Perhaps nobody enjoyed the autograph session more than Pearson, who let kids try on his Super Bowl ring and led Cowboys chants whenever a Dallas fan made his way through the line. Party attendees were able to enter the show floor a little early from a side entrance.
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