Barbie collectors gather in Tulsa

(Tulsa-AP) -- Hundreds of Barbies and the people who love her are gathering in Tulsa for an event billed as the biggest Barbie convention ever. <br><br>Barbie collectors can play, trade and buy their

Thursday, June 15th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Tulsa-AP) -- Hundreds of Barbies and the people who love her are gathering in Tulsa for an event billed as the biggest Barbie convention ever.

Barbie collectors can play, trade and buy their favorite doll at the event. There are fashion shows, previews of the new Barbie collection, a silent auction and seminars on Barbie restoration.

Organizer Lisa Mainetti says she's calling it the Buckaroo Showdown.

Dealers and collectors from all over the world are registered,including people from Germany, Singapore, Taiwan, France and Belgium.

At the end of the event, registered attendees receive their limited edition convention doll. Mattel designs the dolls' hair and make up, while the host club dresses and boxes each of the 1,200 dolls.