Meet OUr 2025 Artists & Vendors
Meet OUr Experts & Collectors
Scott McKenzie
Scott McKenzie is an Assistant Professor at the Zurn School of Geology at Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA. Boasting over 61 popular and peer-reviewed publications on paleontology and geology, Mr. McKenzie was also a 2021 winner of the “Teaching Excellence Award”. Mr. McKenzie also holds a number of letters and certificates from the Geological Institute of America.
Mr. McKenzie represents Mercyhurst university at regional science fairs and conventions and has presented seminars and talks in six states and was recently featured with Mercyhurst students in a NHK Tokyo documentary on fossils and evolution.
Scott McKenzie will be presenting on Saturday, October 11th & Sunday, October 12th (1:30pm - 2:30pm) on “Odd Beach Finds” in the Great Hall and will also be available for identification and conversation in his booth both days!
Lynne & Larry
Brady
Lynne and Larry have shared photos and brought the piece of glass to experts. Several have said it had likely been in the lake approximately 100 years. Shipwreck experts at the Buffalo Beach Glass Festival said that it could have fallen off of a ship many years ago. When Lynne and Larry contacted the Corning Museum of Glass in upstate New York, they said it seemed to have been created for some purpose but had no idea what use the piece would have had.
They will have the 275lbs piece on display both days and be available for conversation, questions, photos and more!
SATURDAY ONLY!
Shea Alltmont
Shea Alltmont is the Communications Manager at the Avon Lake Public Library, but when she’s also an avid beach combing enthusiast and educator!
Shea offers a program called “Beaches Kick Glass,” a presentation for beach glass enthusiasts, treasure hunters, new beach combers and those wanting to adventure to their local beach for interesting finds that can be discovered along the shores of Lake Erie - teaching you more about this relaxing and intriguing hobby of beach combing.
Presenting on beach glass and other sandy treasures at the Avon Lake Public Library as well as other local libraries and other venues along the Great Lakes as well as operating/moderating the Facebook page “Beaches Kick Glass” for other enthusiasts to share their experiences, Shea has shared her knowledge with others for over 6 years.
She is also a member of the International Sea Glass Association and was an official shard identifier for the 16th Annual North American Sea Glass Festival in 2023!
Shea will be presenting on Sunday, October 12th (12:00am - 1:00pm)!
SUNDAY ONLY!
Alex Watkins
Alex Watkins: Bottle and Glass Identifier and Co-Owner of Rusted Rooster Rare Finds
Alex is a passionate glass enthusiast and one of the proprietors of Rusted Rooster Rare Finds in Warren County, PA. With over 30 years of experience in collecting and digging bottles, Alex has identified thousands of pieces of glass and pottery, showcasing his deep knowledge and dedication to the craft.
His journey began at the age of 12 when he stumbled upon his father’s childhood bottle collection in the basement, igniting a lifelong passion for glass. Since 2016, Alex has participated in the Great Lakes Beach Glass and Coastal Arts Festival, where he shares his expertise in identifying shard bottles and engaging with fellow enthusiasts.
Alex’s fascination with glass extends to early American pattern glass, as well as the intricate process of dating bottles through mold seams, lips, and colors—almost like a forensic analysis of history. He enjoys discussing all aspects of glass collecting and has a keen interest in identifying ceramic and pottery shards from the beach.
While beach glass represents a weathered and broken part of his hobby, Alex is still on the hunt for his first beach bottle. Join him as he uncovers the beauty and stories behind each piece of glass, sharing his love for this rewarding pursuit!
Nora
Campanella
Join Nora for a discussion about her new book, chronicling a heartfelt journey across Puerto Rico’s beaches, where her passion for sea glass and love of her family en-chanted island come alive.
Sharing her favorite sea glass beaches and stories of the island’s culture and history along with blending practical tips and other hidden gems Puerto Rico offers, this book is perfect for adventurers and collectors alike. Sea Glass of Puerto Rico is more than a guide—it’s a celebration of connection, family, and the hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Join Nora for a discussion about her book, love of sea glass, journeys to Puerto Rico and more Saturday, October 11th and Sunday, October 12th from 3pm - 4pm each day.
