Submitted by: Cosmic Comics
Like a superhero rising after an epic battle, Cosmic Comics is back following a fire in late September – and better than ever, says owner T.J. Tipton. The fire, later ruled arson, caused both structural damage as well as extensive smoke and water damage to the store at 1905 Cornwall Ave., along with the building’s two residential tenants. No one was injured.
In all, the fire caused nearly $200,000 worth of damage, including loss of inventory for the comic shop. Approximately 5,000 slightly damaged comic books were donated to the literacy nonprofit Comics4Kids.
The beloved community gathering place received many offers of help from customers after the fire. “I feel very lucky that no one was hurt in the fire, and I am glad that we were able to make the best of a bad situation,” Tipton said. “The outpouring of support from customers and the community made all the difference in the world.”
Cosmic Comics was closed for 49 days after the fire, the longest closure in the shop’s 24-year history. The one bright spot in the closure was the opportunity to make improvements to the store including new floors, lighting and paint, a new flat screen TV for posting in-store tournament standings and a reconfigured floor layout.
“We’ve spiffed the place up,” Tipton said. “I’m excited to see what the customers think.” What is staying the same is Cosmic Comic’s offerings: comics dating back to the silver era of comic books, Magic cards, board games and disc golf supplies.
The remodel also retained the table space for customers to play their favorite games. Friday Night Magic is the weekly gathering to play the popular card game. Another customer favorite is the monthly Cosmic Comedy nights, showcasing local comedians. “A customer went to California and saw a comedy show at a comic shop there,” Tipton said. “He brought the idea back to us, and it’s been a great success.” The next Cosmic Comedy night is Jan. 22 at 8 p.m. Shows are geared toward adults.
Cosmic Comics got its start 24 years ago on Holly Street. It moved to the Parkade Building on Commercial Avenue before moving to its current home on Cornwall Avenue 17 years ago. Tipton originally owned the store with partners, but became the sole proprietor in 2014. He now has four employees. “This is a great group of employees,” he added.
A combination grand reopening and 24th anniversary celebration took place on Dec. 3 to show off the newly remodeled store.
