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Comic convention comes to Big Sandy Superstore Arena

By Staff | Apr 25, 2012

On June 9, the Big Sandy Superstore Arena will be the location of the Tri-State Comic Con (Tricon), a convention that will bring in talent from the world of large and independent comics publishing.

With such a strong base of comic fans in the area, it’s surprising that Huntington hasn’t had a dedicated convention for the comics industry since the early 1980s. To pull off an event worthy of the medium, organizers for the first ever Tricon have taken to the task of bringing in notable talents from all over the east coast, including artist Steve Scott (Batman Confidential, The Creeper, Hulk: Broken Worlds), Dennis Calero (X-Men Noir, Cowboys Vs. Aliens), Billy Tucci (Shi, Sgt. Rock), and Jim Califiore (Deadpool, Gotham Underground), as well as Huntington native Beau Smith (Spawn, Wynonna Earp).

“Tricon is Huntington’s chance to really put itself on the map as a comic-centered location. We’ve been amazed at the amount of support the show has received locally,” said show organizer James Maddox.

A Marshall University alumni and Huntington resident, Maddox is working in partnership with organizer Eric Watkins of Belpre, Ohio, to create the convention for Huntington. The two have gained attention in the independent press and large press circles thanks to their own work with the indie label Broken Icon Comics, which the two also own and operate.

“Every year, we attend multiple shows as creators, and we’ve come to enjoy the community and encouragement that come from these events. We wanted to create that sort of community in Huntington and show people how great a location it is in the process,” said Watkins.

Plans for the June 9 show are well underway, with new and future guest announcements being posted weekly on the show’s website, Facebook and Twitter pages.

With a focus on large and independent press, toys, back issues, new releases and more, the Tri-State Comic Con will take place Saturday, June 9, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena in downtown Huntington. Admission is $7 for adults and free for children under 10 with a paid adult admission. VIP passes will be available for $15 and will include giveaway prizes while supplies last. For more information and updates on dealers, artists, guests, and panels, go to www.tristatecon.net.