High Country Comicon returns Saturday

The High Country Comicon is back, with comic books, art, collectible toys and family fun.

The comic convention takes place Saturday, March 27, at the National Guard Armory in Boone.

This time around, the show features a Magic the Gathering tournament and a return of the 501st Legion Star Wars costumers.

"This is the third show we've had, and the cool thing is each one is a little different," said convention organizer Scott Nicholson. "We have dealers coming from as far as Alabama. So, you can find a variety of new and vintage comic books, meet new artists, participate in the gaming tournament, or draw at the art table."

Artist guests include Bat Hilliard of Ashe County, Phil Juliano of Asheville, Randy Green of Greensboro, Will Caligan of High Point and Chris Bradberry of Asheville.

There will also be collectible toys and figurines, as well as some sports and non-sports cards.

From Star Wars to G.I. Joe, the show embraces every obscure corner of popular culture. "Dealer space is also available if you want to clean out the attic and get rid of your unwanted comic books," he said.

Plan 9 Comics of Boone is sponsoring the sanctioned Magic the Gathering tournament, which Nicholson said was added by popular demand. The $25 participant cost includes six packs of cards and a chance for various prizes. For more information on the tournament, or to register, e-mail Steve Carter at (cartdogg@charter.net)

Elkland Art Center is hosting the art tables, where there will be plenty of blank paper, as well as real comic pages, that all ages can color and take home.

Admission to the Comicom is $2, and everyone gets a free comic book, as well as a chance at hourly door prizes. Listen to Mix 102.3 FM and WATA 1450 AM the week of the show for giveaways and free tickets.

The National Guard Armory is located at 274 Hunting Hills Lane, near the Watauga County Parks & Recreation Complex. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information and to see more art, visit http://www.hauntedcomputer.com or e-mail (boonecomicon@yahoo.com) to get on the mailing list and be eligible for more prize giveaways.