Random Panels: Whale's Vagina, 2006

San Diego was actually pretty fun. Aside from the long lines and occasional smelly guy, I'd have to say it was almost worth the outrageous amount of money spent to get there. I got to meet some cool artists and watch some interesting panels.

At one point, a bounty was put on my head by an irate, Imperial Hotdog on a Stick vendor. Something about asking for too many mustard packets, or something. I was able to bribe myself out of it by handing over my tickets for the Stan Lee signing.

When DarthVader found out about the incident, he was pretty embarrassed. The Dark Lord apologized and somehow managed to get my hotel room upgraded. He presented me with some complimetary Starbucks coupons and even arranged for an armed escort for the duration of the convention.

The thing that sucked most, besides the heatwave, was that Ramona Fradon had to cancel. I hope she's well. Seeing Ted Kord up and alive, however, almost made up for it. He was there with his girlfriend, Catwoman, who I was not able to get a picture of.

So how's it feel to be among the living once more?

"Huh...Oh...Oh yeah. Um...It's pretty cool I guess."
You and Catwoman been an item for very long?
"For about, uh...fifty-two weeks now. I think."

Parking sucks. Did you bring the bug?

"Yeah. We just walked from our hotel. Had to leave the ride back home. Maybe next year though... I gotta go."

Most everyone I did meet was very nice and willing to speak about their work. The one exception was a certain silver-age great who shall remain nameless. As expected, from stories and interviews I'd read, he seemed like kind of a dick. Although, I do have to say, I got to see him do a sketch for someone and I was very impressed. The dude's still an amazing artist.

The two nicest guys I met were Paul Chadwick and Zander Cannon . Both were very giving with their time and Paul Chadwick even did a quick little Concrete sketch when I asked him to sign a book.

Some other famous people I met-

I helped Optimus Prime find the closest bathroom.

Sponge Bob said something incredibly inappropriate which I refuse to repeat here. In front of a group of children, no less.

I'm pretty sure Mystique tried to lift my wallet.

Turns out that whole animosity thing is just an act. These guys are pretty tight, actually.

This loser just wouldn't shut up about some guy named Ventura or something. His girlfriend was nice, though, I think she may have been a dude. Anyway, they saved my seat at the Adult Swim Panel while I got a peanut butter smoothie.