Since the recent trip to the JFO Convention, I've really started to look at a few specific types of openers. One being the L-1 type. It's a 1.5 inch tall beer can with a button on top that releases a cap lifter from the bottom of the can. Since there are only about 7 different beer ones out there, I should be able to get them all in the next couple months. I've got a new search set up, and snipes are pending. Now if I can just resist buying each one that comes along....

I've been on this stag horn thing for a little while now. Sterling tips, Silver dipped, Plain, Capped, Locking frame, Williamson Fancy shank, what ever it may be....They're all cool! Here are the latest arrivals. The short one has a sterling end. Thank you to Mark for the large stag!

I don't actively search for corkscrews in Live Auctions, but occasionally they appear in my regular searches. I usually end up placing a smaller bid as there are many extra fees in addition to the winning bid. Well I recently won one and I'm pleased with my win. It had a Syroco Terrier screw mixed in the lot. He's in fantastic shape! The rest will be auctioned off. Oh, have you seen my latest listings?

This poem came with one of my Coffin guys a few weeks ago. I did not hardly even read it when I first received it as I didn't want to ruin the paperwork form 1932. It reads as follows: " Poor Mr. Prohibition's Licked - We've got him on his back! He's trying hard to make amends Before he's in "the sack". Let's look him over just for fun, He may be used at that! There's nothing in that head of his - He's "screwy" in the hat! His stomach now is changed a bit - It measured out the rye. A "Jigger-ful' each time it's used! Say! He's a useful guy! He kicks off caps with utmost ease We've got his cork in spirit! And when he passes on, dear friend We know that we can "beer-it"!

Well, as Josef and I were enjoying lunch today, I was wining about how I had purchased TWO IL Cavatappi books online and have yet to receive one of them, even after 5 months of waiting. I returned home to see my mailman unloading his cart of goodies and he had a few packages for me. One of them was the Cavatappi book! It looks to have been through hell and back, but finally in it's rightful owners hands. It's the perfect book for me as I can't read (italian that is) and it's full of Large colorful pictures! I also got a Sterling Silver bell type corkscrew. It's got a hammered finish with decorative lines. A perfect piece for Ebay! I wonder what awaits at the post office as I forgot to bring my pink slip out with me......

Time to play catch up......Over the past week or so I have had a few arrivals. A Folding pocket type (ladies leg style), a Direct pull bone handle w/brush, my 2nd coffin man. I also got a Thiery and Croselmire from Josef to finish a recent trade. Kudos to Josef and his website for being selected to be featured in a magazine! I really need to get my website off the ground. Anyone want to be "linked" up? I meet with my programer on Tuesday, but additions can be made anytime. The biggest thing on Ebay right now is the German Shepherd that has it's ORIGINAL BOX! Here is your fair warning......If you want it, you are going to pay for it, as I plan on it being in my best 6 this year. AAAAAhhhhh......Pink slip. I wonder what forgotten treasure my postmaster has for me?

Well, the JFO was crawling with collectors, but a few celebrities were spotted. I was lucky enough to get some pics with them! Seen below are John Stanley and Don Bull. They are both big time collectors of Bottle openers and Corkscrews. I've been waiting forever to meet these guys, as they have been icons in the Bottle opener and Corkscrew collecting world. Thanks for all you've done! Next, I got to meet Joe Young. He is a local guy who lives in Elgin, IL. I've got a Syroco Monk Lux Clock with his name on it. This year at the JFO he won "Best Opener" with his Arrow Beer wall mount. A very cool piece. The Guinness World Record holder of "Largest Bottle Opener Collection" was also at the convention. Art Santen also took a picture with me. I also had the chance to meet Mark Woodard, AKA "Markdmg". Though we've had a few "moments" in bidding wars, it was great to meet Mark and hunt with him. He gave a great presentation on Crown Cork and Seal. I look forward to trading again with Mark as I got a very nice Dico from him. More later.....