Local family experiences Comic Con for first time
Brothers Ricky and Alejandro Cruz of Brawley didn’t know what to expect when they arrived for their first-ever comic con experience in Palm Springs on Friday. The two, ages 13 and 16, respectively, admit they’re comic readers online and enjoy DC and Marvel blockbuster films. They didn’t know they would be taking photos alongside Bumblebee and Mr. Meeseeks from the animated show “Rick and Morty.” By midday Sunday, they are pros and already introducing their sisters Mia and Maryliz Campos, ages 9 and 11, respectively, to the collective fandom united for the second installment of Comic Con Palm Springs (CCPS).
Both brothers are all smiles when they talk about their exploits inside the Con. The two say they both have taken photos of the cosplay and while they didn’t participate this year, they know for next time.
Whether it’s storm troopers marching, Harley Quinn roller skating next to The Riddler or zombies roaming haphazardly, it’s a prime location for anyone to meander and take in the artistry and excitement of fans and professionals converging for a weekend.
“It’s very amazing how they just create their own stuff,” said Alejandro of the exhibitors. “I’m not very good at drawing myself but I do like admiring the art. I just love how people put all their creativity in just one painting. … I love geeking out on any type of thing.”
Alejandro is sporting a T-shirt that warns “Please do not feed the zombies,” just one of his souvenirs from the weekend that he garnered from donating blood. The junior at Brawley Union High School said it was his second time donating.
“Everyone’s so nice,” said Alejandro. “They just welcome you in. You get to talk to a lot of amazing people, you get to know about them.”
The second installment of the Con grew a few of its offerings from last year, such as a larger Lego room and an entire photo op room dedicated to the 501st Legion’s Inland Empire Squad, and brought new ones, such as weapons from the Pirates of the Caribbean movie and Stan Lee Museum. Lynda Carter performed in a concert as well as Brian Ingelson and the Palm Springs High School and CCPS Orchestra.
Gamers united in a room with video gaming as well as card games. There was a table full of table games of all varieties to try and more to purchase on site.
The Brawley family agreed the Con is worth the trip for Imperial Valley residents.
“There’s a lot of things for a lot of different people. No matter what you like. Even if you’re not a big comic book fan. There’s a bunch of things to do for people of all ages,” said Ricky.