The first official day of events has come to a close.
The event is held at the Marriott Hotel on Louisianna Blvd:

Johnny Jimenez, the Toy Shack expert often seen on the "Pawn Stars" TV show, is just two doors up from our room. During the day many of the attendees have the doors to their rooms thrown open with signs posted on their room waste basket notifying visitors that they are open for in-room sales and trading of Matchbox treasures.

Here are some of the assorted treasures Johnny has available:


Earlier this evening the event was officially launched at the "Meet and Greet". There were two cakes available, one a general "MATCHBOX" themed cake, the other a celebration of Mattel's Michael Heralda, and his retirement after 35 years of design work.


Michael and his wife are in attendance.

The current and some of the past Matchbox Ambassadors are also in attendance. From left to right:
Terry Ozima, the current Ambassador Larry Scadudo, Mattel's Michael Heralda, Jim Gallegos (our host) and Chuck Wiersma.

Tomorrow is another day and I'll try to get back again with more updates. I can tell you that Jim has arranged for tomorrow evening's events to be streamed live as they occur! Join us if you can!