READY TO ROLL: MARC NATHAN ON BALTIMORE COMIC-CON '07

**MattBrady** · 09-05-2007, 02:51 PM

by Matt Brady

We’re just days away from the summer’s lasy major convention – the Baltimore Comic-Con. Once again, the two-day show will host The Harvey Awards, a ton of guests, and programming galore. We spoke with convention owner/organizer Marc Nathan about this year’s show.

Newsarama: So here we are, two days out – how ready are you for the show this year?

Marc Nathan: Everything is pretty well set. The normal details that you have to do just before a show are still there, but they’re things that you can’t really do until the last minute anyway, so they’ll always be there. Television and radio, for instance – they don’t want to talk a month out, but the week before – everyone wants to talk to you. Which is good though – I can’t complain.

NRAMA: When we’ve spoken before, you’ve mention that your planning for the next year’s con starts the day, or shortly after that year’s con ends…

MN: Or sometimes before the con starts, which is what we have going on this year.

NRAMA: You already have plans for next year?

MN: Yeah - next year, we’re moving to the end of September.

NRAMA: A lot of cons are moving their scheduled times next year – why are you doing it?

MN: For us, it was just circumstance, but it’s going to help, especially in getting us away from Labor Day. But yeah – it’s weird how everybody moved into the summer like Wizard, and we’re moving away from it, so there will be a big gap in the middle after San Diego. It’ll probably really help Toronto, or just be a reason for people not to notice it, which would be a shame. But all the movement is really going to create a void in August next year.

NRAMA: I think the convention road warriors will be okay with it. It opens the door for honest to god summer vacations for some.

MN: Including me. [laughs] I might actually get to enjoy part of my summer, which would just be unreal. I would love that.

NRAMA: So how do things match up right now with how you wanted this show to be for this year when you started planning for it last September?

MN: Pretty well, actually. There are a lot of things that I wanted to do last year that I had plans for that I did remember to do this year [laughs]. And most of them really are looking like they’re working out – although I won’t know until Saturday. One of the things that I wanted to do is reach out to Boy and Cub Scouts. I had wanted to reach out to kids somehow, but I couldn’t get the schoolteachers to work on the weekend on a large level. Grass roots, I could get one te3acher that I knew to bring their class, or get Jose Villarrubia to bring his art students from MICA, which is the art college in town. I could get certain things done, but as a big thing, I couldn’t get them moving because it’s not the fairest thing in the world to ask teachers to work on the weekends, let alone bring a class on a field trip on the weekend. It’s a lot harder to get kids on a school bus to go anywhere than it was when I was a kid – not to mention take them downtown to a comic book show where they would be allowed to roam free. And all this despite the fact that there’s – presumably – a large initiative in Maryland called Comics in the Classroom. We’re waiting to see that affect us, but so far that hasn’t happened.

So I went to the Boy and Cub Scouts in the local area, knowing that they do mobilize on the weekends.

NRAMA: What kind of response did you get?

MN: I was shooting for 500 kids, which is a large number, but right now, I know that I’m over 150, so I’m pretty happy. Even though it’s a lot lower, it’s still 150 kids, and there’s a chance that there will be a lot more, because a lot of the folks who are heading it up don’t know if the individual Dens will be coming. It was made available to them, and will be free, but we won’t know until it happens.

NRAMA: You’re letting them in for free?

MN: Right. Their guardians pay their own admission. If one Den leader shows up with 20 kids, then it’s 20 kids getting in for free. So, 150 kids – I’d love to see this sea of uniforms moving up and down the aisles.

NRAMA: We have to touch on this – there’s no hurricane schedule this year, no DC sniper, hopefully no fire alarm like last year…

MN: Oh come on…[laughs] gimme a break!

NRAMA: It’s still going to be a while before you lose that stigma of the “cursed show…” That said – the Orioles are in town this weekend, like last year. And that makes for a good news/bad news thing…

MN: Yeah – it’s good news that it’s the Oriles, it brings a lot of people in to town, and everyone who’s frustrated about hotel rooms – thank your lucky stars it’s not the Ravens. This weekend, the Ravens are in Monday Night Football, and are on the road. Football fans in general are worse for us, because they don’t just take our hotels, they take our parking as well. They show up at five o’clock in the morning, and start roasting hot dogs. At least we got that.

The only thing that I’ve got to offer is that when you get downtown – you’re going to see this giant pit of construction next to the convention center – that will be a new hotel, very similar to what Shelton Drum has with the Weston in Charlotte – that will connect to the convention center, with hundreds and hundreds of additional rooms. They say it will be ready for fall of next year. “Fall” is really ambiguous…but again, we’re pushing our show back, so we’re hoping that we can be one of that hotel’s first conventions next year.

NRAMA: But for this year, the grim reality is…

MN: The entire city is sold out. The airport area as well. There are outlying areas everywhere that people can drive in from, or take trains from, and we have a lot of people who do that. It’s not quite as convenient, but it’s there, and they still have rooms. But comic fans travel hard.

NRAMA: Going into the show itself, what do you have, both in terms of guests and programming/planning that is making this year stand out in your opinion?

MN: There are a lot of really good things. The Harvey Awards again on Saturday Night, and the Hero Initiative doing their Lifetime Achievement Award, with Sergio giving the keynote address – that all will be a great time. Programming during the show – all publishers seem to have something lined up to say. I know that DC is making a couple of cool announcements, and so is Image. Marvel has a panel, too.

I’m hesitant to mention it, because part of me just gets kind of sick at promoting it, but we have the Mike Wieringo tribute on Saturday afternoon too. All things considered, we’d all rather have him here.

In addition to that, we just finalized that the Humane Society will set up a booth and collect money, and we’re going to create a benefit that we’ll do every year in Mike’s name for the Humane Society. We’ll have two booths set up, one will have people coming in and out all day doing signings and sketches to benefit this. When you reach a certain plateau in money, which I think we’re going to do within the first twenty minutes, the Humane Society makes a plaque with whoever’s name the donation is made in on it that hangs in their location. So every year, we’re going to get a plaque in Mike’s name, obviously. The Humane Society has asked to bring a dog with them, so we should have a dog at the show, too.

NRAMA: You’re a seasoned road warrior of the convention circuit, and obviously, you’re going to be biased, but what makes Baltimore different in your view?

MN: I can’t say that it’s completely different, but I feel that the accessibility to every guest on the floor helps us stand out. It’s easy to find people – unless they’re out shopping themselves – and who you’re finding – we’ve got a pretty stellar guest list from year to year. And I try to sell booths to no one other than comic dealers and toy dealers. I don’t sell booths to extraneous things like swords or purses – it makes it more competitive in the room for the retailers who do come, but at the same time, for the consumer, there are so many things to choose from. In that regard, we’re fortunate that we get a lot of local stores setting up, and this is the only show that they do. It’s a good weekend for them, but in addition, it’s stuff that isn’t on the road. By and large, what you’re going to see here is stuff that you’re not seeing up and down the East Coast and out to Chicago.

NRAMA: You’re back to back with the Diamond Retailer Summit again this year…

MN: And I love the summit. I wish more publishers would use both events. In fairness, it’s not just me saying that I don’t have enough publishers that are doing both. I have a couple of publishers/manufacturers coming to the show that aren’t going to the Summit. I wish that they used the whole weekend to do a lot of things. They can use our convention to do retail (if they can) and end up paying for the full weekend. Probably for the smaller guys, that’s a real possibility.

I really like the Summit, and it’s a great way for specifically, retailers within driving distance to have a very long, good three or four days talking about what they do. IN a perfect world, one retailer from 300 miles away will come with a shopping list of what his store is looking for, be able to buy it in the room, and then spend the next two days at the Diamond Summit.

NRAMA: But at the same time, it does steal some thunder. Last year specifically, Marvel chose to make their major announcements at the Summit, rather than at the show. Does that put you in a difficult position?

MN: I don’t know. And it will probably happen again this year. I don’t know how to feel about that. I can’t worry about stuff like that. That’s their choice. Any publisher, and not to single out Marvel, that feels it’s more necessary to make an announcement in front of 500 retailers as opposed to whatever we can fill the room with, which in most cases is substantial, than that’s what they’re going to do. I don’t want to stop them – it’s their choice. Specifically for Marvel, I’d like to see a giant Marvel booth at our show, and we haven’t been able to get that. I don’t think it’s necessarily a bad thing, it’s just a choice. It’s still happening in that week, so it’s not all bad.

NRAMA: Fair enough – okay, last minute sales pitch to any fence-sitters?

MN: Well, we’ll have an additional hall, which means that it’s all larger. Specifically, when you see it, there’s a lot of space given to Hero Initiative, both for the folks they’ll have at their booth, and things that they’re doing, like the three-minute sketch auction, which is going to be phenomenal. They’ve got a lot of things going on, and needed the space. It’s going to look great.

We’ve also got a lot of new people on the floor, like Gentle Giant, and a lot of people who were looking for more space. So there’s going to be a lot of things to do. I don’t know how anyone can do this in two days, if they choose to do everything. Of course, that brings us to your annual question, which is…

NRAMA: So when’s this going to turn into a three day show, anyway?

MN: I don’t know. I say it every year – I never rule it out, but I just don’t know.

NRAMA: Is it something that’s almost been permanently back-burnered, or is there some threshold you’re looking to cross, either in volume of people, or the right people telling you that the show should be three days?

MN: Each year I get lovingly yelled at by a few more people. It’s certainly growing, and people want it to be three days, and I certainly see the need for it to be three days. It’s coming – it’s inevitable. Let’s see how the move to later in the year goes next year. My main concern that I don’t want to force people into this before it would be beneficial for them, from retailers to publishers to guests. Let’s just see what it looks like. I want it to be worth it.

Click here for more information about the convention.

christosgage · 09-05-2007, 03:10 PM

Really wish I could be there. The wonderful Humane Society tribute to Mike Wieringo is just one more thing I'll hate to miss. Maybe next year! Hope everyone going has a wonderful time and takes a moment to honor Mike's memory in some way.

Best,

CNG

newfoundma · 09-05-2007, 03:25 PM

I live about 45 minutes south of Baltimore and would have gone home from college for the weekend for it, but I have other commitments this weekend. Bummed about missing it, it sounds like it will be fun. Totally a priority for next year!

Chesscub · 09-05-2007, 03:33 PM

This show rocks! I am so looking forward to it.

If you're in the area, it's well worth going to.

Jeff

HomerCow · 09-05-2007, 03:37 PM

This is the show I look forward to every year. I'm not sure how it'll be this year, but in past years it hasn't been too too overly crowded and the layout really is great for finding what you want.

For the most part, on one side of the room, you have the dealers, and on the other side, you have the talent. Most of the talent is clearly marked, and for the most part you aren't shoving your way through tons and tons of other people.

Plus, this show has the waid/dezago/wieringo seal of approval.

Cully Hamner · 09-05-2007, 03:40 PM

I look forward to Heroes Con and Baltimore every year more than any other cons. The only other show that ever gave me the same kind of vibe was Emerald City in Seattle, though I've only been to that one once.

I'll see everyone there!

GeorgeG · 09-05-2007, 04:17 PM

I'll be heading down there Saturday for my first Baltimore Comic-Con. I'm really looking forward to it. Catching the Oriole game that night too.

Is there a panel listing anywhere? I didn't see it on the site's homepage.

Also, as far as the dealers are concerned. Do any accept credit cards? I would imagine they'd want a minimum amount spent, which isn't a problem.

Chesscub · 09-05-2007, 04:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GeorgeG

I'll be heading down there Saturday for my first Baltimore Comic-Con. I'm really looking forward to it. Catching the Oriole game that night too.

Is there a panel listing anywhere? I didn't see it on the site's homepage.

Also, as far as the dealers are concerned. Do any accept credit cards? I would imagine they'd want a minimum amount spent, which isn't a problem.

Some do, some don't. I bought my Lost Girls hardcovers with a credit card last year.

80Pork · 09-05-2007, 04:33 PM

I'm kinda kicking myself for not going to Baltimore now. I figured out I could afford to go to two cons this year. I chose Heroes Con, which was great, and I was debating between Baltimore Comic Con and SPX. It was tough to decide, but I did choose SPX...there were people going there I have never seen at another con and honestly, I was pretty certain I would spend LESS money at SPX than I would at Baltimore...hahaha! Depending on how much I enjoy SPX this year, I may hit Baltimore next year instead...

80Pork · 09-05-2007, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chesscub

Some do, some don't. I bought my Lost Girls hardcovers with a credit card last year.

Yeah, I have noticed at cons that some companies (such as Top Shelf) does except credit cards, as well as some of the businesses (I am pretty certain I bought some stuff from Reel Cinema before with my credit card). Thank goodness Top Shelf will take the card, because I end up spending WAY too much money on their stuff.

Gordon Lee · 09-05-2007, 04:45 PM

I will miss attending this year, unfortunately, due to other circumstances, but it does help knowing the show dates are moving to the latter part of September for next year! Gonna have to start make plans......

TheCorpse · 09-05-2007, 05:15 PM

This is always one of our favorite shows to hit. Great time and great people.
Come by and see us and get your free copy of The Living Corpse 1/2 issue!

WarriorSmurf · 09-05-2007, 05:46 PM

My mother just asked me when I was coming up that way. If it took place next month, that would be a different story. If I remember correctly, the very first Baltimore Con took place at the beginning of October.

Phoenix Phan · 09-05-2007, 06:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GeorgeG

Is there a panel listing anywhere? I didn't see it on the site's homepage.

It's on their homepage as of yesterday, that I saw. Click on 2007 programming schedule.

And I really hope they change this to a 3-day con soon. There's so many people to meet, that it's becoming increasingly harder to get all the signatures I want in 2 days! It's great that all of the creators love coming each year, and supporting the show. It's my favorite con by far.

jimbo887 · 09-05-2007, 06:15 PM

I live about 15 minutes, if that, from the convention center and I already have tickets, and I don't know if I'm going to make it.

I'll try to stop through for a couple hours on at least one of the days but we'll see. This will be my first full-fledged con, if I make it.

Tom Raney · 09-05-2007, 07:05 PM

I'll be there too... can't wait! Every year Marc and co. make this show more fun!

I'll be spending most of my time at the Hero Initiative but I love just wandering the room when I get the chance. So many great people... pros, fans, dealers. Just a lot to do and see!

Ron Marz · 09-05-2007, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cully Hamner

I'll see everyone there!

Not if I see you first.

Tom Raney · 09-05-2007, 07:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ron Marz

Not if I see you first.

Sneaky.....

TCJohnson · 09-05-2007, 08:18 PM

If you see a bald guy with a reddish goatee and a blue shirt, feel free to punch him in the mouth. It will probably be me.

JCVaughn · 09-06-2007, 01:56 AM

If you want an idea of how good this show is, catch how many of the early posters in this thread are professionals!

I'm very biased about this convention since it's presently my hometown show and I know everyone involved in putting it on. On the other hand, I am widely traveled and have seen a lot of good and bad conventions.... this one is special.

I don't think guests will find a show at which they are taken care of better, and I don't think there's one with a more family-friendly disposition. Guests have ranged from Golden Age creators to absolutely indy guys.

From the "I know, we'll put on a show!" days to the present, it's been fun to watch it grow into a really superb, comic-centric show.

WC Brooks · 09-06-2007, 09:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MattBrady

by Matt Brady
So I went to the Boy and Cub Scouts in the local area, knowing that they do mobilize on the weekends.

NRAMA: What kind of response did you get?

MN: I was shooting for 500 kids, which is a large number, but right now, I know that I’m over 150, so I’m pretty happy. Even though it’s a lot lower, it’s still 150 kids, and there’s a chance that there will be a lot more, because a lot of the folks who are heading it up don’t know if the individual Dens will be coming. It was made available to them, and will be free, but we won’t know until it happens.

NRAMA: You’re letting them in for free?

MN: Right. Their guardians pay their own admission. If one Den leader shows up with 20 kids, then it’s 20 kids getting in for free. So, 150 kids – I’d love to see this sea of uniforms moving up and down the aisles.

In 2005 Mr. Nathan invited my Boy Scout Patrol (#487-Tayac) to the convention (I am an Asst. Scout Master). It was the first time any of them had ever experienced a comic con. They were welcomed with opened arms.

Needless to say they were all completedly blown away! The boys (and some Cubs) not only had a terrific time but many of them earned their "Collections" and "Art" merit badges as well. Many were truely surprised by the rich history of comics, and actually meeting the writers & artists sealed the deal. Hands were shook, pictures were took, and money was well spent. And FUN was had by all (the moms and some dads visited the Baltimore Inner Harbor - BEST seafood in Maryland)!

And YES, we will be there this Saturday (Boys in red/blue-Class B / Cubs in blue)!

Thank you Mr. Nathan.

Wayne C. Brooks
ASM #487 King Cobra Patrol (Tayac District)

Bent Corner · 09-06-2007, 11:42 AM

Parking in the Baltimore inner harbor area is going from bad to worse. Any new construction taking place in Baltimore is almost always a former parking lot getting turned into something else. I went to an Orioles game a few weeks ago and I had to pay $25 to park 15 minutes from the stadium.

dpg · 09-06-2007, 12:10 PM

Making the drive from the Pittsburgh area on Saturday morning.

Anyone need a lift?

dpg · 09-06-2007, 12:32 PM

If anyone with some experience down there can give me some ideas on parking. I would be very thankful.

TCJohnson · 09-06-2007, 12:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dpg

If anyone with some experience down there can give me some ideas on parking. I would be very thankful.

Good luck.

There are a lot of parking garages, but they are all a bit expensive.

In the past, there was a great parking lot about 10 minutes from the convention that always had parking and was like $5 for the day or something. Last year when we went to the convention it was a huge hole in the ground with cranes. Basically we just drove around the convention center until we found a garage.