Bell Book and Comic to host first Comic Con

With most events being canceled due to the coronavirus, particularly major gatherings like comic conventions, it’s a little unexpected to see the new events being planned. However, the folks at the Bell Book & Comic shop decided that their own mini version of a comic con will give their customers a much-needed morale boost.

Bell Book & Comic, located at 458 Patterson Road in Dayton, is owned by Peter Bell, who has always been interested in bringing people and fun together. The slogan "Life should be more fun!" definitely speaks to the mission of the store.

“While everyone seems to understand the need for safety and public health, a lot of Bell Book & Comic customers have been disappointed to find that nearly all comic and game events have been cancelled,” Bell Book & Comic office manager Theresa Harris explained to us.

Credit: Contributed

“We felt that this first comic convention would be a good opportunity to bring cheer to the people who have stood with us during an unprecedented challenge,” she continued. “This small scale first run is our effort to give back, and practice for a growing event.”

Comic book stores have been hurt particularly hard by the pandemic, as it’s an industry that depends upon in-person shopping, not unlike vinyl record stores. The products they sell are tangible collectibles that many people prefer to shop for in stores as opposed to online.

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This event is a type of welcome back for Bell’s customers. Patrons will be expected to bring their own mask, maintain appropriate distance and be kind and respectful. Hand sanitizer will be made available, staff will be cleaning frequently, and the amount of shoppers allowed in at one time will be limited.

Credit: Contributed

The store is situated in a strip mall, so they will be able to utilize the store front next to Bell for vendors and a huge comic sale. Along with the vendors, there will be raffle prizes, special guests, as well as the Magic the Gathering Core 2021 set release and Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh gaming.

Although they are purposefully starting off small, due to current circumstances, the staff of Bell Book & Comic hope this inaugural event will grow in future years.

How to attend Bell Book and Comic’s first annual Comic Con

Location: Bell Book and Comic at 458 Patterson Road, Dayton

Hours: