The Frank Thomas Candy Bar (Charity)
Produced by Morley
Candy Makers of Michigan
Arguably one of the neatest and rarest non-card collectibles of The Big Hurt. Issued as part of Frank's Big Hurt Enterprises, this version of his candy bar was produced to generate funds for local Chicgao-area charities and schools.
In
cooperation with Sports Management Network Inc (Update: I'm sorry to report
that the SMNI/Morley Candy link no longer exists on their website) and Morley
Candy Makers this incredible collectible was born.
SMNI offers professional athletes the ability to help their communities while
simultaneously providing them with access to different markets. A quote from
their website, "Our effectiveness stems from our experiences and backgrounds
in all facets of the industry, from contract negotiations to sponsorship sales
to event management to media packaging and much more."
Ever watch the adult HBO program 'Arliss' about the life of a sports agent? Same thing. <g>
Very tough to locate after so many years, this was a single season production (1996). It's considered by many longtime Frank collectors as quite rare. I want to again thank The Wheaties King for willing to part with a prime sample from his extensive sports collection --- I'm indebted to you --- thank you again! You helped me end an Indiana Jones-like, multi-year, big dollar, even bigger headache generating search. Covering nearly all fifty of our United States, Japan, Australia, England, France and a good part of the globe. It's a long story - if you want to read it - click here.
Collector's Note: Notice the back of the bar? It mentions the now-defunct Big Hurt Fan Club. A great link to his fans that I hope Frank will one day resume.
UPDATE
(8/22/03): I was stunned to learn that this
was one of TWO different versions of the 'Big Hurt' Candy Bar!
One charity (above) and the other...a Retail version! Click
here to see it.