Baltimore Comic-Con 2010

Another year, another comic book convention. It's been said that the Baltimore Comic-Con is the last big convention focused solely on comics, meaning no movie panels, no television panels, no actors, no porn stars. It's just comic books and comic book professionals. For someone like me, that's perfect!

Enter here!

I actually had a different mission this year. The past couple of years I've been perusing the scary, unpredictable world of independent comics. Talented people who love comics that decide to make their own books, selling them to anyone who gives them a chance. It's adventurous, because you really have no idea what you'll find. But this year I decided to bring a list (with various Cyclops, Blue Beetle and Booster Gold related comics). I was going to plunge into the back issue bins searching for those comics that accentuate my collection.

Zombies! Thanks for posing, assholes.

 I woke up early this morning and caught a ride on the Metro. (No way I was driving into the city.) As I approached the Convention Center I noticed a crowd outside the building. This is nothing new, but going inside I saw there was a HUGE line to buy tickets. The biggest I've ever seen here. It brought me immense satisfaction to bypass the line, go to the will-call booth, and pick up my FREE pass. Being a retailer has it's benefits. Walking in, smug happy face.

War Machine

I immediately set off on my search. Found one of them, Uncanny X-Men #45, took it to the cashier at the booth, that'll be $95 WHAT?!? Eheh...nevermind...  This isn't going to be as easy as I thought it would be. I decided it would probably be best to scout the area, see what my options are. While walking around I see a lot of people in costume. It's an awesome sight, but I don't think I'd ever go in costume, always being stopped to pose for pictures with kids and such. But I applaud those who do!

Catwoman and Poison Ivy

As the day went on, I found a lot of what I was looking for. Luckily all of the issues were reasonably priced, some as low as a dollar. I even found a cheaper copy of Uncanny X-Men #45, not as good condition, but I don't need it to be pristine. I circled the floor probably 20 times, each time finding something else to own.  It was around the time I literally bumped into a Gears of War Carmine that I realized...this place is PACKED! The floor was even bigger than last year, more booths more room, but there was definitely more people this time around. This comic convention thing must really be catching on!

Harley! She was adorable, and even did the voice!

After chowing down a soft pretzel I decided to attend the DC Comics panel, and that was cool. Here fans can ask comic creators and editors questions about upcoming books. Here is was announced, after the Senior Story Editor glanced at my Batman Beyond shirt, that there will be an ongoing Batman Beyond series! Because of ME!! (I'm totally taking credit for this one.)

The Riddler

After the panel I decided to go and see my favorite comic book writer/artist, Jeff Parker. I've mentioned him on this blog numerous times, as my long-time readers would know. Jeff is such a nice guy, a true professional all the way, that you can't help but like him. I asked him if he could draw a Cyclops for me, and he was more than happy to. And wouldn't you know it, it turned out great! Thanks Mr. Parker, I look forward to seeing you again!

Cyclops, by Jeff Parker

Jeff wrote and drew a book called The Interman that I highly recommend. I have an unsigned copy I can lend to anyone who is interested.

With awesome drawing in hand and backpack full of back issues I felt my mission complete and walked out satisfied happy face. When I got home I realized the only thing I bought were COMICS (and one superb drawing). Usually I end up with a couple action-figures, some trade paperbacks, maybe a collector glass here or there. Doesn't bother me one bit!

My booty.

Another great year for Baltimore Comic-Con. It's the perfect show for guys like me, without all the distractions of non-comic promotion. I can't wait to go back next year.

Oh and Russ, if you're reading this, this last photo is for you:

Captain America!