CGC's Big Apple 2009 Show Summary

On the weekend of October 16 – 18 CGC set up at the first Big Apple Con since it was acquired by Wizard Entertainment from Mike Carbonaro, although he has been working with them closely in setting up this event. There were some noticeable changes besides the new location at Pier 94. There was a stronger presence from the video game industry, including a large Nintendo booth displaying demos of upcoming games as well as Web-Media outlet U-Frag T.V. who was hosting events and conducting interviews throughout the weekend. Another welcome addition was the presence of numerous small concession stands selling everything from coffee and ice-cream to fresh BBQ and burgers throughout the show floor. On Friday (October 16th), Gareb Shamus, CEO of Wizard and his business partners launched GeekChicDaily an online newsletter and website for fans of pop culture. Last but not least, CGC was offering on-site grading of all tiers!

The Big Apple show has always been good at organizing an impressive guest list and this was no exception. There was of course a large roster of comic book professionals in attendance, Joe Simon, Jim Lee, Neal Adams, Joe Kubert, Adam Kubert and Andy Kubert as well as many others. This year also held many appearances from film and television actors. William Shatner was there signing autographs and promoting his new comic book “Tek.” Linda Hamilton and Edward Furlong were present signing Terminator collectibles and comics. Adam West also made an appearance posing for photos alongside the original Batmobile as well as signing autographs for fans. Most surprising however, was the presence of so many sports celebrities. Baseball legends Yogi Berra and Pete Rose, boxing great “Smoking” Joe Frazier and many members of the UFC and WWE were all available to meet fans and sign sporting memorabilia. All of that and also performance by hip hop trio Naughty By Nature at the Friday Night after party and Taylor Dane at the Saturday night party.

CGC was originally based in New Jersey before moving to Florida, so the show provided a chance for many of the employees to return to the area. Additionally there were many CGC Authorized Dealers set up at this convention, which helped to boost submissions and promote our grading service throughout the convention. Throughout the convention CGC customer service representatives had a chance to meet many of our customers and interact with them in person, instead of just over the phone or through e-mail. Overall it was a fun and successful event with many people in attendance despite the cold and somewhat rainy weather.