In an exciting journey that combines passion and community, Jane Grissom, a resident of Salt Lake City, is preparing to embark on a remarkable trip to Milan, Italy, carrying with her an impressive collection of 1,000 Olympic pins. Grissom, who is widely recognized as one of the most dedicated Olympic pin traders in the United States, has been meticulously curating her collection for years, making her a prominent figure in the global pin trading community. Grissom's love for Olympic pins began over a decade ago when she first encountered them at the 2002 Winter Olympics held in Salt Lake City. The vibrant designs, rich history, and the camaraderie among collectors captivated her, igniting a passion that would lead her to build an extensive and diverse collection. "I was instantly hooked; every pin tells a story, and I love sharing those stories with others," Grissom said in an interview. Her collection includes pins from numerous Olympic games, featuring both summer and winter events, as well as those from lesser-known competitions. Each pin represents not just a sporting event but also the culture and spirit of the country it comes from. Grissom has pins from countries all over the world, including rare editions from nations that no longer exist, making her collection not only vast but also historically significant. As Grissom prepares for her trip to Milan, she is excited about the opportunities that await her. The 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo, and she plans to attend the pin trading events that will take place surrounding the games. These events attract collectors from across the globe, providing a vibrant marketplace for enthusiasts to buy, sell, and trade pins. "It’s like a giant family reunion for pin traders. Everyone is so passionate and friendly, and it’s wonderful to connect with people who share the same love for these little pieces of art," she explained. Not only is Grissom enthusiastic about trading, but she is also keen to share her extensive knowledge with newcomers to the hobby. She often conducts workshops and participates in local meet-ups to educate others about the significance of Olympic pins and the history behind them. "There’s so much more to these pins than just their aesthetic appeal. They represent the athletes, the countries, and the spirit of the Olympics. I want to inspire others to appreciate them as much as I do," Grissom said, underscoring her commitment to fostering a sense of community among collectors. To fund her trip, Grissom has been actively participating in local flea markets and online auctions, selling duplicates from her collection to finance her travel expenses. Her dedication to pin trading has also drawn the attention of local media, which has highlighted her story and the growing interest in Olympic memorabilia. As she prepares her collection for the journey, Grissom is also mindful of the logistics involved in transporting such a valuable assortment. She has invested in specialized protective cases to ensure that her pins remain secure during travel, and she has devised a meticulous cataloging system that will help her keep track of her trades. "I’ve spent countless hours organizing my collection, and I want to make sure that everything is in perfect order for my trip. It’s not just about taking my pins; it’s about sharing a piece of my passion with others," she remarked. Grissom’s dedication to the Olympic pin trading community has not gone unnoticed. She is often invited to speak at events and has built a network of fellow collectors who support and encourage one another. Her passion has fostered friendships that extend beyond the pins themselves, forming a tight-knit community that spans continents. As Grissom looks ahead to her trip, she is filled with anticipation and excitement. "This is not just a trip; it’s a celebration of sport, culture, and the connections we make. I can’t wait to meet new friends, share stories, and bring back memories that will last a lifetime," she concluded. In a world where digital interactions often overshadow personal connections, Grissom reminds us of the enduring power of community and shared passions. With her journey to Milan, she not only represents Salt Lake City but also the spirit of the Olympic Games, bringing together people from all walks of life through the simple act of trading pins. As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics continues, Grissom's story serves as a testament to the joy and unity that the Olympics inspire, one pin at a time.