Managed by Melvin Arion, the Original Semiannual York Antiques Show and Sale took place Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 in Memorial Hall East on the York Fairgrounds in downtown York, Pa. York has been a host site for an antiques show for decades. It is an accessible location, especially for those coming north from Maryland and northern Virginia. It is also a geographic area where the interest in traditional antiques is considered higher than many regions. Some of the show promoters that have held shows in York in the past included the late Jim Burk, Barry Cohen, Bob Goodrich, and Frank Gaglio. Today, a quarter into the 21st century, Arions Original York show and sale is the only major antiques show held in York. Taking place in the winter, typically the last weekend in January the show is known for getting a good crowd. Arion was fortunate weather-wise, not having any storms to contend with or hinder travel. Its a time during the winter when show goers enjoy the opportunity to get out. Arion had more exhibiting dealers than he has had at previous shows, which is a good sign, and pre-show and opening day selling was respectable as reported by a cross-section of the dealers. Saturdays crowd was fairly strong as well. Many of the exhibiting dealers wish the show would return to a three-day format and last until Sunday, giving people who work Monday to Friday more opportunity to attend. With expenses such as hotel costs rising, many out-of-state dealers have embraced the two-day show to cut down on bills. It has been a couple years since the change to having just Friday and Saturday show hours. I thought they had a good crowd on both days. I know some people did well on Saturday. remarked Steve Still. I think it was pretty positive for most people and furniture seemed to be selling. Dave Kurau sold a rare Washington memorial Chinese Export porcelain small platter on Saturday with monogram of JRS for Joseph and Rebecca Simms, a prominent Philadelphia family. The piece was from a well documented service. Friday was slow for us, but Saturday turned out well, said Kurau. We also sold a rare transfer on Liverpool pitcher with a view of Newburyport, Mass. Mark and Kelli Saylor sold a blue painted pie safe, a red painted corner cupboard and a fine Remmey stoneware pitcher along other things. We were happy, especially with Saturdays crowd and sales, followed up Saylor. Held twice a year, Arions next show will take place on Sept. 19 and 20. To learn more, call 302-875-5326 or visit www.theoriginalyorkantiquesshow.com.