As I started the store Shawn from Spaz Dog was always preaching remember the locals and support them as much as you can. I took it too heart but also realized I was a new store and had to concentrate on the key publishers. Mistake #1, as I have found out, was that the local creators are,Pardon the phrase "The Mob" (Gladiator phrase). They are the heart and soul of the pure essence of a comic book fan. Many sacrifice hours and hours away from family and friends that MIGHT become a hit among a small percentage of fans. Those whom are lucky move up the notch and continue to strive with a smile of accomplishment but a couple of dollars in their pocket. Those who fail don't give up and amaze me at their undieing desires to get that ashcan in one more persons hand.
I remember meeting Mike Debalfo in Ken's store Drawn to Comics last year and it was real cool to meet someone humble and gracious even though he was just getting his incredible art on a Zenescope cover. We just had his second appearance at the store and this was his 1st time as a Headliner. I will tell you the pride I had for him that he didn't sit behind his table and sign. He was up and interacted with his fans. Laughing and just having a blast. He was so kind to invite his friend Milen and graciously share his table without a after thought.
Now the list is long of these special warriors who have set up their war room at the store. Of course we started of with my favorite of all time Brian Pulido rocking the house. He knew I was nervous Being our first event, with my favorite, was beyond what one could imagine. My fanboy side said "Get his picture hang out laugh and be Mr. Biggest fan" and then my Hawkeye side said "Watch the store be responsible!" However Pulido being who he is just told me relax I got it! At the end he was gracious and let me know that he had a great time and looked forward in coming back (Dec 18th 2010 by the way he returns)
Of course Raven Gregory was next and really had a great time hanging with him. I remember he wanted a pizza and when it came he asked the guys around the table if they wanted a piece. He then went into the lounge and hung out with the crew and told stories and they laughed all night.
I then knew we had to show our love for the community. Our first M.A.D (Members Appreciation day) was like dancing with bees while stacking BB's. We ran around trying to find at least 3 guest to come and Anthony jumped in to be our 4th. It was fun and at the end of the day I knew we had something. We developed C.A.D (Creators Appreciation Day) And since then we never have looked back.
A couple of things happened. I had the honor of being the comic director of the Phoenix Comic Con and the arrival of the Fearsome Four came to the store for the first time.
The Con put me on a different playing field and I got to learn and meet many creators in a much faster time span. It allowed us to bring in more talent then we could ever hope for. As I move into my second year I look forward to meeting even more local creators and having even more fun! Yes I already have next years suits pick out!
The Fearsome Four are 4 creators that I really enjoy seeing on the invites. They are Jean Arrow,April Reyna,Andy Bohn,and Tosh Delaney. They still have the rookie eyes. They know what they want but they havn't gone through all the growing pains yet. It's fun watching them grow and their art work ,every week, gets even better. Also they are Face Book junkies so that's a plus right there.
I think the four guys that I really enjoy is Jeff Pina, Christian Vilaire, Denny Ricelli, and Eric Mengel they are true local vets and have never forgot were they started from. You can tell they love there work and see it in their creations. Any help they are a Fb away. There is NEVER a hesitation to ask them a question.
There are so many more creators, John Layman who is so humble you wouldn't even know he won a Eisner this year. The Iron Man of creators by far is Tony Parker! He has saved me so many times at Phoenix con I might have to buy him a suit for next year. The support he shows to others is BEYOND amazing.
Those whom have been just cool cats to the store Russ Kazmierczak,Albert Morales, Jolene Houser, Daniel Bradford, Ben Glenddenning, the RockStars of Spaz Dog Press, The Dude Steve Rude, Heather Martin,Micah Edsall,Alfred Trujillo,Glen Curren and Bryan Kilgore.
You have Xena Simon (or smith like I call her, sorry B) and Eridess Thaden whom always draw a crowd but always are so gracious and just plain Rad ladies. We will miss Xena Smith when see moves to my hometown in December. If you come to a event and you sy you missed them you weren't looking with your eyes open!
There are two creators whom I have become fans off. Madame M's work's in the non comic community is only matched by her work in the creators community. Helping out others is second nature to her and she has a wonderful supporting family to match. Victoria Paege is a one lady wreaking war machine! She is everywhere and some times two places at once. I didn't get a chance to work with her at con last year but look forward in our continued work in the future.
Okay I will tell you who Rocks and that's Liam of the Arizona Avengers. The honor and privilege to get to work with this guy is amazing. He has garnered my admiration on his hard work and dedication to his team and the community is unmatched. Iron Man,Black cat,Wanda,She-Hulk,X-23 and of course Deadpool you all rock!
I also want to thank my Team of Anthony and Andrew whom really keep the event from running wild. April and Justin for being solid help. My Mom and Dad for keeping me in check and My wife who supports me no matter how many times I forget about important dates in our life.
ALSO I would like to thank Rianne Vilaire she is the silent Warrior and has been a pioneer in events and making it happen. Arizona Derbay Dames RULE!
Now I didn't write this to just name drop but I did it to show that we are just one store. Its to show that these creator are more then just someone who just comes, sits down and signs and does commission. They are creators who want to express themselves anywhere and everywhere. So the next time you come to anybody's store event and you see some creators stop by and say "Hi" you don't have to buy anything (though if you can that would be awesome) trust me that goes a long way and makes them want to create even more! Many say you have to drive to San Diego or fly to NY to see great creator but I truly believe that Creators Paradise is in Arizona!
P.s I normally I add pictures but with some many people just the read will have to do!!
Highest Regards
The Six Shooter Jesse James
If I forgot anybody in this Blog I'm truly sorry.
.
No comments:
Post a Comment