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Former Commissioner Accused of Misusing Campaign Funds for Collectibles

Ben Shoulders, a former Vanderburgh County Commissioner, is currently under scrutiny for allegedly misusing campaign funds to acquire high-value baseball collectibles. An investigation revealed that Shoulders had reportedly spent more than $41,000 on eBay using a debit card linked to his “Shoulders for Commissioner” account. These purchases, including a $235 Johnny Bench rookie card and a $570 Satchel Paige card, were allegedly mislabeled on campaign finance reports as “signs” and “banner.”

Though the majority of Shoulders’ reported expenditures seemed valid, the baseball card entries and other transactions, such as nearly $500 worth of Pokémon cards recorded as “signs” at a local store, raised suspicions among investigators. The case developed even further when Shoulders contacted the Evansville Police Department himself in October 2023, claiming fraudulent activities on his campaign account.

Initially alleging that his debit card was lost in April and denying knowledge of the disputed charges from May to August, evidence suggested oppositional claims. Records indicated Shoulders as the sole authorized user of the account, and purchases continued post his report of the lost card. Email documentation displayed confirmations of multiple eBay orders for rare baseball cards, including items like 1965 and 1967 Mickey Mantle cards and a 1966 Willie Mays card, all of which were delivered to Shoulders’ residence. The funds for these transactions were believed to have been sourced from his campaign account.

Moreover, it was revealed that Shoulders sought over $26,000 in reimbursement from Old National Bank’s fraud department for the alleged fraudulent charges. However, this request was rejected. Shortly after this disallowed claim, Shoulders resigned from his commissioner position, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the county.

Following these events, Shoulders was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including attempted fraud and filing a false report. He was released on a $500 bond while awaiting his initial court appearance. The investigation also unearthed irregularities concerning checks designated as charitable donations, which were reportedly deposited into a business account controlled by Shoulders.

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The Rise of Galaxy Rip Packs by MagProSupplies

MagProSupplies and the Rising Popularity of Galaxy Rip Packs: A Revolution in Collecting MagProSupplies has quickly established itself as a key player in the world of collectible trading cards and memorabilia, becoming the go-to source for hobbyists looking for innovative and exciting products. Among its standout offerings are the highly sought-after Galaxy Rip Packs, which have captured the attention of collectors for their unique approach and unmatched experience.

What Are Galaxy Rip Packs?

Galaxy Rip Packs are a novel creation that reinvents the traditional trading card pack opening experience. Unlike standard packs that contain a predictable array of cards, Galaxy Rip Packs offer an added layer of excitement with a unique multi-layered approach. Each pack is filled with cards that range from base-level collectibles to rare inserts, autographed cards, and even exclusive limited-edition items that can only be found through this product. The thrill lies in not just opening a single layer, but discovering potential hidden gems that lie within additional layers inside the same pack.

The Appeal of Galaxy Rip Packs

Collectors are drawn to the Galaxy Rip Packs for multiple reasons:

Variety and Surprise: The layered nature of the packs means that collectors never know what they might find as they keep opening. This concept adds an element of suspense and fun that has made Galaxy Rip Packs a must-try for anyone who loves the excitement of ripping packs.

High-Quality Cards: MagProSupplies ensures that every Galaxy Rip Pack is filled with top-notch cards, including rare inserts and limited prints that increase the value of a collection.

Exclusive Finds: Certain cards and memorabilia within Galaxy Rip Packs are exclusive to the product line, making them highly coveted in the collecting community. This exclusivity drives collectors to seek out these packs, knowing that they might come across something truly special.

Why MagProSupplies Stands Out

MagProSupplies has made a name for itself through its commitment to quality and innovation. With the introduction of Galaxy Rip Packs, the company has positioned itself as more than just a supplier of traditional trading cards. By infusing creativity and an element of surprise into their products, they cater to both serious collectors and newcomers looking for a unique entry point into the hobby.

The company has also earned a reputation for excellent customer service and a seamless shopping experience, both of which are crucial for retaining a loyal customer base. MagProSupplies has managed to stay ahead of trends and respond to the desires of collectors, setting it apart in a competitive market.

The Future of Galaxy Rip Packs and Collecting

As the popularity of trading cards and memorabilia continues to grow, products like Galaxy Rip Packs are expected to lead the way in modern collecting. The unique layered approach not only makes the experience of opening packs more engaging but also opens up opportunities for collectors to discover cards they may never have had access to otherwise.

With the success of Galaxy Rip Packs, MagProSupplies is set to keep pushing the boundaries of what collectors can expect. Whether through new themes, additional exclusive card series, or more interactive elements, the company shows no signs of slowing down its innovative streak.

MagProSupplies and their Galaxy Rip Packs have breathed new life into the card-collecting world. For collectors seeking a mix of quality, excitement, and exclusivity, these packs represent an unbeatable experience. As more hobbyists turn their attention to this groundbreaking product, the demand for Galaxy Rip Packs is poised to reach new heights, solidifying MagProSupplies as a leader in the collectible industry.

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Panini America Launches Panini College NIL Platform

Panini America is revolutionizing the world of collegiate sports trading cards with the launch of their innovative NIL platform, Panini College. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to provide college athletes with the unique opportunity to have their own trading cards under the Panini NIL brand.

The Panini College platform not only allows athletes from partner universities to have their personalized cards available for sale to fans but also serves as a cherished keepsake. Athletes participating in this program will earn compensation based on the sales of their cards, with select athletes even offering exclusive autographed versions to their fans.

Initially featuring football and volleyball players from major institutions such as Ohio State University, University of Nebraska, and University of Texas, Panini College plans to expand its reach to additional schools and sports across the country in the near future. This expansion will provide more athletes with the platform to showcase their name, image, and likeness on trading cards.

The official launch of the platform is scheduled for Tuesday, September 3rd, with fans gaining access to the Panini College website at college.paniniamerica.net. Throughout the 2024-25 academic year, enthusiasts can anticipate a continuous rollout of new products and athlete cards to keep the excitement alive.

Jason Howarth, the Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations for Panini America, expressed the company’s belief in providing every collegiate athlete, irrespective of their school, sport, or position, with the opportunity to have their own trading card. He stated that Panini College is reshaping the trading card market for athletes in all sports by offering them a platform to benefit from their name, image, and likeness. As the program expands to encompass more schools and sports, Panini is thrilled to provide fresh opportunities for athletes to gain recognition and for fans to access thrilling new collectibles.

Panini College joins a portfolio of innovative initiatives that Panini America has undertaken in the collegiate NIL landscape. The company has formed partnerships with notable athletes, such as Lexi Rodriguez, a volleyball All-American from the University of Nebraska and Panini’s first female NIL athlete. Additionally, athletes like Quinn Ewers, Tre Johnson, Arch Manning, Dylan Raiola, Julian Sayin, and Zachariah Branch have also teamed up with Panini to showcase their trading cards.

Furthermore, in a previous venture in 2023, Panini launched the widely popular Caitlin Clark Collection to celebrate the remarkable career of the University of Iowa basketball star.

Panini America’s introduction of Panini College solidifies the company’s position as a leader in collegiate sports trading cards, offering athletes a fresh channel for recognition and fans an exciting new way to engage with their favorite sports stars. The platform underscores Panini’s dedication to innovation and its commitment to supporting the flourishing collegiate NIL market.

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Aaron Judge Booklet Auto Excitement

In a recent live break, collectors tuned in to OTIAConsignments’ Whatnot channel witnessed something truly special as an Aaron Judge booklet autograph card was pulled from a Galaxy Rip Pack. The moment was electric, and the excitement of the pull underscored why Galaxy Rip Packs have become a go-to product for collectors chasing rare, high-end cards.

Aaron Judge, the towering right fielder for the New York Yankees, has captured the hearts of baseball fans and collectors alike with his remarkable combination of power, skill, and leadership. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing 282 pounds, Judge’s physical presence is as impressive as his performance on the field. Since his debut in 2016, Judge has been one of the most dominant players in Major League Baseball, known for hitting towering home runs, making jaw-dropping plays in the outfield, and leading the Yankees both in the clubhouse and on the field.

Judge’s rise to superstardom began with his breakout rookie season in 2017, where he hit 52 home runs, setting the all-time rookie record at the time (which has since been surpassed). That year, he also earned the American League Rookie of the Year award and finished second in MVP voting. His larger-than-life presence and ability to perform in the biggest moments quickly made him one of the most marketable and beloved athletes in the sport.

Off the field, Judge is a natural leader. His humility, work ethic, and commitment to the Yankees’ storied tradition have endeared him to fans in New York and beyond. It’s no surprise, then, that his autographed cards are some of the most sought-after in the collectibles market. As Judge has continued to pile up accolades, including multiple All-Star appearances, a home run derby win, and becoming the Yankees’ captain, his cards have only risen in value and prominence.

That brings us to the recent live rip of a Galaxy Rip Pack, where an Aaron Judge booklet autograph card made an appearance. The pull was nothing short of extraordinary. Booklet cards, by their nature, are among the most coveted in the hobby, offering a unique fold-out design that allows for extra-large autographs and sometimes memorabilia pieces, such as patches from game-used jerseys or bats. In this case, the booklet featured Judge’s on-card signature, marking it as an instant grail for any Yankees fan or baseball collector.

Galaxy Rip Packs have earned a reputation for delivering some of the most exciting and high-ceiling hits in the hobby. Featuring a mix of rare autographs, graded cards, and ultra-limited inserts, Galaxy Rip Packs appeal to collectors looking for the thrill of pulling something truly special. The product is known for including cards from a wide variety of sports, but it’s pulls like this Aaron Judge booklet auto that truly elevate the excitement surrounding the brand.

As the booklet was revealed, the excitement in the chat skyrocketed. Viewers shared in the collector’s joy, realizing the magnitude of the hit. Pulling an Aaron Judge autograph is a prize on its own, but a booklet auto takes things to another level. These cards often become centerpieces of any collection, not only because of the player’s significance but also due to the rarity and visual appeal of the booklet design.

Judge’s impact on the field is undeniable, but his importance to the Yankees’ franchise and to baseball as a whole cannot be overstated. With his powerful swing and commanding presence, he has brought the Yankees back into the conversation as perennial contenders. As of late, Judge has become a crucial figure in the Yankees’ lineup, regularly delivering clutch performances when the team needs it most. His ability to handle the pressure of playing in the New York spotlight has only added to his legendary status.

For collectors, an Aaron Judge autograph is more than just a card—it’s a piece of baseball history. Judge represents the next generation of Yankees legends, following in the footsteps of iconic players like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, and Derek Jeter. Every autograph card carries with it a piece of that legacy, and when a booklet autograph is involved, it feels even more significant.

The lucky collector who pulled the Judge booklet now owns a piece of that Yankees history, and the card will no doubt be a cornerstone of their collection for years to come. For others who witnessed the pull live, it was a reminder of the sheer excitement and unpredictability of live rips. You never know when you’ll hit something truly extraordinary, and that’s what keeps collectors coming back for more.

As the sports card hobby continues to grow, moments like this—when a superstar’s autograph is revealed from a pack—serve as the ultimate thrill for collectors and fans alike. The Aaron Judge booklet autograph pull from the Galaxy Rip Pack was one of those unforgettable moments, further cementing Judge’s place in the collectibles world and adding another chapter to his already storied career.

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Legal Battle Over Shohei Ohtani’s 50th Home Run Ball

Max Matus, a young baseball enthusiast, is not about to let go easily of a prized possession – Shohei Ohtani’s 50th home run ball. The ball that marked Ohtani’s impressive milestone is now at the center of a legal battle, with Matus taking legal action to halt its upcoming auction, set to kick off on Friday with bids starting at a hefty $500,000.

Matus claims that the ball, currently in the possession of fellow fan Chris Belanski, was unlawfully snatched from him during a game at loanDepot Park in Miami on September 19. According to Matus’s lawsuit filed in Florida, he had firmly secured the ball in his left hand when Belanski allegedly forcefully grabbed it away from him, with the assistance of his friend Kelvin Ramirez.

Despite Matus’s efforts to stop the auction and secure the ball in a neutral location until a resolution is reached, Goldin Auctions, the New Jersey-based auction house handling the sale, is determined to proceed. The court denied Matus’s request for a temporary restraining order, allowing the auction to move forward as scheduled.

Goldin Auctions, in response to the lawsuit, confirmed their intention to proceed with the sale, citing their review of the case and publicly available game footage. The legal battle will continue in the 11th Judicial Circuit Court in Miami-Dade County as Matus’s legal team fights for a share of the proceeds should they win the case before the auction’s conclusion on October 16.

Meanwhile, the CEO of Goldin Auctions, Ken Goldin, revealed that Belanski had swiftly reached out to them the day after Ohtani’s record-breaking game to organize the auction. Despite a tempting $300,000 offer from the Los Angeles Dodgers, Belanski opted to turn it down in favor of the auction, setting the stage for a potentially lucrative sale.

The auction of Shohei Ohtani’s monumental 50th home run ball kicks off with a “buy-it-now” price of $4.5 million available until October 9. Should bids reach $3 million before that date, the buy-it-now option will be removed, paving the way for an intense bidding war leading up to the auction’s closure.

With interest soaring and the legal drama unfolding, the sale of Ohtani’s significant sports memorabilia promises to captivate collectors, baseball aficionados, and legal enthusiasts alike. The outcome of the legal dispute will be closely monitored as the auction progresses, adding an intriguing layer to the high-stakes proceedings. Get ready with your bids at Goldin Auctions!

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Legendary Live Rip: Jordan & LeBron Autograph Card Bonanza

The sports card collecting universe recently exploded with excitement during a live rip on OTIAConsignments’ Whatnot channel, where an unsuspecting customer achieved the unimaginable feat of scoring two back-to-back monumental hits. As the two-pack of Galaxy Rip Packs was being meticulously opened, the atmosphere was electric with viewers eagerly anticipating the unfolding drama.

The first jaw-dropping moment occurred when a pristine, graded autograph card of the one and only Michael Jordan graced the screen. Cheers and applause flooded the chat section, with fans convinced they had witnessed the pinnacle of the night’s excitement. However, fate had an even more incredible surprise in store.

As the second pack was revealed, anticipation reached a fever pitch only to be surpassed by the shocking appearance of a LeBron James autograph card, also graded and flawless. The consecutive pulls of these two basketball legends—Michael Jordan and LeBron James—sent shockwaves through the stream, setting off a frenzy of elation and disbelief.

Securing a graded autograph card of either Michael Jordan or LeBron James is a collector’s wildest fantasy come true. To strike gold with both in consecutive packs is an unparalleled once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. The fortunate collector was left speechless by the extraordinary turn of events, while the chat section exploded with a deluge of congratulatory messages, emojis, and ecstatic reactions. OTIAConsignments’ Whatnot channel catapulted to the forefront of the card community’s attention as news of this epic rip spread like wildfire.

Galaxy Rip Packs are renowned for delivering top-tier, high-value pulls, but this spectacular event took their reputation to unparalleled heights. Boasting an array of premium features such as limited-edition cards, autographs, and rare graded gems, Galaxy Rip Packs have carved a niche as a premium card-breaking experience. The stunning double-whammy of Michael Jordan and LeBron James only served to cement the product’s status as a staple in cutting-edge card collecting experiences.

The live rip on OTIAConsignments’ Whatnot channel will undoubtedly go down in history as a night to remember, etching itself into the annals of sports card lore. Collectors worldwide are destined to replay the electrifying saga of the dual Jordan and LeBron hit, with anticipation building for the next blockbuster moment on the channel. It’s events like these that remind us all—seasoned collectors and newcomers alike—that the world of live rips is a realm where the extraordinary can and does happen, leaving a lasting imprint on all who bear witness.

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Topps NOW Jayden Daniels Rookie Card Autograph Opportunity

Topps, a household name in sports trading cards, is stirring up a storm with its latest Topps NOW addition. The spotlight is on Jayden Daniels, the rising sensation of college football, as a unique opportunity awaits collectors and fans alike.

In the realm of college football stars, few shine as brightly as Jayden Daniels. Commanding the field as LSU’s dynamic quarterback, Daniels has established himself as a versatile player, thriving both as a passer and a runner. His talents transcend the ordinary, making him a force to be reckoned with in the game.

Beginning his collegiate journey at Arizona State, Daniels wasted no time in leaving a mark with his ability to deliver big plays when it mattered most. Transitioning to LSU only fueled his success further, showcasing his prowess in crucial matchups and demonstrating exceptional skill in reading defenses and executing pinpoint passes. NFL scouts have their eyes on him, acknowledging his poised demeanor, accuracy, and knack for creating explosive moments on the field.

The special Topps NOW card featuring a “91.3 comp %” inscription pays homage to Daniels’ exceptional accuracy, highlighting a remarkable 91.3% completion rate achieved during a standout game. It symbolizes his precision and composure under pressure, encapsulating a defining moment in his illustrious career.

Topps NOW has carved a niche for itself by capturing pivotal sports moments in real-time, granting fans and collectors the opportunity to own a piece of history. These cards, available for a brief period usually 24 hours, directly from the Topps website, encapsulate the essence of recent events in sports, providing enthusiasts with exclusive access to freshly occurred milestones.

By introducing the limited-edition 1/1 autographed Jayden Daniels rookie card, Topps NOW elevates the excitement for fans, offering a rare chance to possess a coveted memorabilia item belonging to one of the brightest stars in college football.

For those eager to lay hands on the Jayden Daniels 1/1 rookie autograph card, securing the base card from the Topps NOW series is the first step. Each purchase automatically enters collectors into the draw for this highly sought-after item, adorned with the unique “91.3 comp %” inscription, enhancing its rarity and desirability even further.

Hurry and seize this golden opportunity to be part of Jayden Daniels’ remarkable journey from collegiate excellence to a promising NFL career. Nab your base card today and potentially snag an extraordinary memento from the ascent of one of football’s prodigious talents.

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Ohtani’s Record Card and Kraft’s Brady Purchase Steal the Show at ‘Holy Grails’

Shohei Ohtani, known for his exceptional talent on the baseball field, captivated the world of collectibles by setting a new record at the exclusive “Holy Grails” auction. Hosted in Harlem, the event marked a groundbreaking collaboration between Fanatics Collect and the renowned auction house Sotheby’s.

The star of the evening was undoubtedly Ohtani’s rare 2018 Topps Chrome Sapphire Autographs Superfractor rookie card, which fetched an astonishing $336,000. This sale shattered the previous record of $312,000, highlighting the skyrocketing value of Ohtani’s collectibles. Notably, the same card had been sold for a mere $4,800 in May 2019, showcasing the exponential growth in its worth fueled by Ohtani’s outstanding athletic achievements.

Sotheby’s had initially estimated the card’s value to be between $80,000 and $120,000. However, Ohtani’s historic accomplishments, such as being the first MLB player to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season, drove the final price well above expectations, setting a new benchmark in the realm of sports memorabilia.

Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of collectibles, expressed his admiration for the Ohtani card, affirming its privileged placement as the first lot of the auction. The evening was punctuated by a notable purchase made by Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, who acquired a Tom Brady 2000 Playoff Contenders Rookie Ticket Autograph card for a significant $120,000, garnering attention among esteemed attendees.

Among the high-profile figures present at the event were NFL legend Tom Brady himself, YouTube sensation Logan Paul, and renowned rapper Meek Mill, adding to the allure of the evening. The auction showcased a series of remarkable sales, with Elly De La Cruz’s 2022 Bowman Chrome 1st Bowman Prospect Autograph Superfractor card fetching an impressive $360,000, surpassing Ohtani’s record-breaking transaction.

However, the highlight of the night came with the jaw-dropping bid for a 2005-06 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual Logoman Autographs card, featuring basketball icons Michael Jordan and Julius Erving. This unique piece, adorned with game-used NBA logo patches from the legends’ jerseys, commanded an astounding $780,000, solidifying its status as a prized artifact for sports memorabilia collectors.

The “Holy Grails” auction encapsulated an unprecedented gathering of rare and coveted sports memorabilia, with Ohtani’s groundbreaking sale setting the stage for a night filled with extraordinary bids and iconic items that transcended mere collectibles to embody pieces of sporting history.

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Exciting Sports Card Release Calendar Update

Are you ready to expand your sports card collection with some exciting new releases? Get ready to mark your calendars, as we dive into the upcoming sports card releases from some of the biggest names in the industry. Whether you’re a baseball enthusiast, basketball fanatic, football aficionado, or soccer supporter, there’s something for everyone in this diverse lineup.

Kicking things off is the highly-anticipated 2024 Topps Sapphire Baseball set, featuring 8 packs per box, 4 cards per pack, and a guaranteed autograph in each box. This collection boasts 700 base cards from Topps Series 1 and 2, along with colorful parallels that will surely catch your eye.

For basketball fans, the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Sapphire Basketball is set to make waves with 8 packs per box and 4 cards per pack. Keep an eye out for Victor Wembanyama rookie cards and the chance to score some coveted autographs.

If hockey is more your speed, the 2023-24 OPC Platinum Hockey release is sure to delight. And for those who prefer the green, the 2024 Upper Deck Portfolio Golf set is also on the horizon, offering a glimpse into the world of golfing collectibles.

Moving on to football, the 2023 Panini National Treasures Football release on 9/27 promises 8 cards per box, including 6 autographs and/or memorabilia cards. With on-card autographs, Rookie Patch Autographs, and booklet cards in the mix, this collection is not to be missed, albeit at a higher price range.

Baseball enthusiasts will be thrilled with the 2024 Topps Five Star Baseball set, offering 2 on-card autographs per box and no base cards or inserts. Look out for the Rookie Cap Patch autographs featuring game-used patches that add a unique touch to your collection.

Basketball fans can look forward to the 2023-24 Panini Phoenix Basketball release, while football aficionados can anticipate the arrival of the 2024 Leaf Electrum Football set on 10/2. Both collections promise an exciting array of cards, including autographs and memorabilia pieces that are sure to impress.

On the football front, the 2024 Donruss Elite Football set is set to hit shelves on 10/2, featuring 20 packs per box, 2 autographs, 1 memorabilia card, and 3 rookie cards. With 100 rookies in the 200-card base set, this collection offers a wide range of cards to collect at a competitive price point.

Meanwhile, basketball fans can gear up for the 2023-24 Panini Noir Basketball release, boasting 1 pack per box, 10 cards, and an impressive lineup of 4 autographs and 3 memorabilia cards. Keep an eye out for on-card autographs, including the coveted Sneaker Spotlight Signatures that are sure to turn heads.

Last but not least, soccer enthusiasts can rejoice in the upcoming 2023-24 Topps UEFA Women’s Champions League Chrome Soccer set, which promises to bring the excitement of women’s soccer to the forefront with a dazzling array of cards to collect.

With a diverse range of sports card releases on the horizon, there’s no shortage of excitement for collectors of all interests. Stay tuned for these upcoming releases and get ready to add some standout cards to your collection.

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