Mike Malve of Atomic Comics in Phoenix, Arizona shares his experience with Free Comic Book Day 2008 (see “National Comics Holiday this Weekend”), which gave the holiday “a new Image:”

Comic book fans who visited Atomic Comics Arizona were treated to a once in a lifetime opportunity: the chance to meet the original seven artists and “Founding Fathers” of Image Comics all in one place: Jim Lee, Todd McFarlane, Rob Liefeld, Jim Valentino, Marc Silvestri, Erik Larsen and Whilce Portacio.

Eager fans lined up as early as 5:00 a.m. to get the chance to meet these comic book revolutionaries and take part in their first reunion since Image Comics began.  By the time the Founding Fathers were ready to start meeting and signing for the fans, the line was hundreds deep.  All told over 1000 people were able to get their favorite books and toys signed by these luminaries.  Huge props go out to Jim, Todd, Rob, Jim, Marc, Erik and Whilce, all of whom worked extremely hard, from walking the line to deliver refreshments, to staying late and ensuring every single fan received their signatures.  This was no 3 hour sit and go--these guys trooped it out for 6+ hours!

And if that wasn’t enough, CGC personnel flew to Phoenix for signature witnessing and grading information.  The official Marvel Characters Spider-Man was there for the kids, meeting and greeting, signing autographs, and posing for pictures.  The Hero Initiative had a table of awesome merchandise.  All four Atomic Comics locations sported huge creator line-ups--another 15 artists and writers including Mike Kunkel, James Owen, Skipper Martin, Jay Fotos, Jim Hanna and more!

To quote several jubilant customers: “Best Free Comic Book Day EVER!”

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