Card collector turns hobby into business
Like many young boys, he started out collecting baseball cards then, as an adult, had a chance to buy a company’s inventory.
“Then the IRS told me it wasn’t a hobby,” Haire related. “So, it kind of moved into a business.”
“We’re really glad that you all are here,” FWKCC president/CEO Julie Blaylock said just before the ribbon was cut.
“I’m glad to be out here,” Haire said. “I get to come to work and look at cards all day.”
“You’re bringing me back to my childhood,” Town administrator David Smoak said. “Thank you for opening your business in the Town. It’s small business owners like you who really make a difference and help us with our sales tax revenues and our community.”
Sports Treasures, which opened March 21, nurtures collectors’ enthusiasm for the hobby, with sports cards, miniature and signed helmets, baseballs, footballs, posters and other memorabilia. He also carries collector supplies.
“We always have new releases coming in,” Haire said. “We have new singles.
“We have a direct contract with Topps [which makes the cards], Panini and Upper Deck.
Besides getting cards from Topps, Panini and Upper Deck, Haire travels to card shows multiple times a year, and he buys cards from people who come into the store.
