Three Missouri natives attend local convention

Denny O’Neil, Roy Thomas and Gary Friedrich . The organizer, store manager Ken Murphy, had something to say that I agree with:

Murphy, a sports-loving family man, hates the stereotypes that often are attached to comic book and gaming hobbyists — people who Murphy says come from all walks of life. But Murphy also said the area has long supported comic books as a hobby and a creative pursuit, as evidenced by people like Thomas and Friedrich — respected comic book names from Southeast Missouri.

I completely concur with that. That’s why I find the word “geek” which originally referred to a circus performer who ate chicken heads or something in the mid-1950s, so appalling. I remember that several years ago, when the first X-Men movie was being produced, there were quite a few press sources who seemed to use the word geek, and while it’s always possible to wear it with staunch pride, that still doesn’t mean it’s justified. Sometimes I wonder if “fanboy” is also an unfair stereotype. A very good question.