When I was at the National Hardware Show in Vegas, I made a small side trip.

Since I had written the satire of the Pawn Stars for MAD, called Yawn Stars, a friend suggested we drop by the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, home of the series. I didn't know if they had sense of humor about themselves, but I figured, why not -- or, what me worry? Turns out the Pawn Stars were out on location when we got their place. But it looked quite a bit different from the series. It's more like 40% antiques and pawned items and 60% Pawn Star merchandise. The most merchandise is Chumlee stuff, including "Chumlee For President" t-shirts and posters. A lady at the register said Chumlee merchandise is their largest seller! Quite amazing. There was even a line to get in, but a PR person helped us. Yep, they have a PR agency too. Pawn Stars is a hit on TV. A nice guy named Richard who works for the old man said the family does have a sense of humor, and they did enjoy my MAD send-up, Yawn Stars. with wild Tom Bunk art. Thanks to Michael Sommers for driving us there and shooting the photos. Below, All Chumlee stuff!