Wenatchee Toy Show

Hundreds of visitors were drawn to the first Wenatchee Toy Show at the Wenatchee Convention Center Saturday, June 24. Event director, founder and all-around "head bottle washer" Cory Clark felt the exhibition went pretty well.
"The dealers seemed happy. We're definitely doing this again next year," he said. One of those dealers definitely agreed with that assessment. Gus Foster, owner/operator of Central City Comics of Ellensburg, said attending the show "was worth it, especially since the tables only cost $40. Wenatchee has been waiting a long time for something like this. I think it's great."
Many of the dealers made the seven hour event a family affair including  husband and wife combo, Diana and Mark Emry of Dryden. "I buy collections and keep what I want and sell the rest," said Mark. The couple said they felt the event "went pretty well." Diana also sells collectibles at the Cashmere Antiques Mall. Mark is a full-time  employee as an operations manager in Rock Island. Foster was one of many dealers from out of town who took a chance on Wenatchee's first toy-specific show. Aaron Nevers came from Spokane with his collection of "action figures."
"I had a really good day. 1980s action figures are pretty popular," Nevers said.
Wenatchee native Brad Gioletti and his son Jason said his day "was a success, considering it was my first show." Gioletti's booth specialized in comic books.
Some folks have been literally waiting their entire lives to have some fun selling the toys that have surrounded them all their lives.
Martin Lambel and his mom Lee came from Richland. "I retired from work and have been hoarding toys in my basement for 25 years," Martin said. "Now I finally get the chance to start going to these kind of shows and selling them."
Toys, games, trains, trading cards, comics, video games and pop culture collectibles such as the wildly popular GI Joe dolls and Star Wars memorabilia were everywhere.
If you are a professional dealer or just a hobbyist out to have some fun and network with others that share your obsessions and passions regarding toys, call Cory Clark, 509-699-0025, to ensure your spot in next year's Wenatchee Toy Show.