Free Comics Prove Powerful Force at Dewey's

A line started forming outside Dewey's Comic City more than an hour before the shop opened its doors Saturday morning for the 12th annual Free Comic Book Day.

Comic book enthusiasts, including local college students and residents from other counties, lined up for their turn to choose from a selection of dozens of comics. Star Wars characters were on hand for the action and artists from The Kubert School sketched outside.

Dan Veltre, who has owned the shop more than 20 years, said his love of comic books started with a free one he received as a child—he recalls it being Superboy No. 43—and he hopes the event creates new fans.

"It's fun," he said.

Since last year's event, the shop's exterior has a new look. Dewey's changed its signage from black-and-white comic print to a new, color sign featuring Superman.