Comics and memorabilia please fans at weekend show
By Ry Clarke - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on August 18, 2022.
Lethbridge Comics, Cards, and Collectibles welcomed fans of every variety to the Rocky Mountain Turf Club for its annual expo. From coin collectors to comic fanatics the showroom floor was packed with a variety of nostalgia to please every fan’s fandom.DC and Marvel fans had a plethora of comics to browse, and collectors had a chance to expand their collections and find that missing must-have item.
Cory Gross, owner of Monter Kid Boo-tique made the trek down from Calgary where his store is located in New Horizon Mall. Selling his famous monsters of classic horror, retro sci fi toys, and tiki wonders. Noting being a collector and a store owner is hard when you have a passion for the product. “I buy one for my store and one for me, one for my store and one for me. It’s a vicious cycle. If anything, I have to try and limit what I collect,” said Gorss laughing as he pointed out what was his passion and sharing in stories of lucky finds with other collectors. Making new customers but also new friends on the journey down.
“Coming down from Calgary I feel is a good opportunity to expand and showcase to a market that probably doesn’t have a lot of monster exclusive products. I’m hoping to spark a hunger for that down here,” said Gross displaying classic monster memorabilia like Godzilla exclusive figures and horror movie classics on VHS. Gross also had in his collection an action figure of Elvira, the Mistress of the Dark for cult classic lovers to get a chance to snag.
This is the 6th year the event has been held, switching locations to the Turf Club with expanding vendors and more popularity sparking passions in the public. “We are always hoping people come in and are real collectors. Because we want all the vendors to do well. Hopefully find that one thing you’ve been really looking for,” said Ricky Bast, event organizer.
With more than just comics and card the event had plenty to surprise those in attendance. With free board game sessions for kids, and ax throwing outside hosted by True North Axe Throwing. “We have everything. Local crafts from local artist, comics, and cards of all types. We’re hoping people come in and enjoy the event and find something they really like,” added Ryan Ulrich, event organizer.
Collectors showcased their rarities from vintage marvel and DC, to action figures imported from around the world. Bringing a slice of their passion and collection to the public. The event will return next year with hopes of expanding more. “We’ve had people come up to us asking to sell their stuff next year, so it has the opportunity to grow and expand even more. We’re hoping people come out and find something they like or just find a new collection to begin,” said Ulrich. 2
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