Many local card and comic shops in the area offer quality merchandise, but none offer the personal attention customers receive at Creative Comics in Griffith.
Owner James R. Rhone sells comic books, graphic novels, role-playing books, dice, card games and materials for preserving cards and comics. Creative Comics also carries figurines, tee-shirts and other related merchandise.
Rhone opened Creative Comics in May 2003. He taught comic book art for 10 years prior to opening the shop and used the Griffith store as a place to give lessons in addition to selling merchandise. Now taught by Rhone's friend, comic art lessons for all ages are on Tuesday nights from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Rhone said owning a comic shop was something he always wanted to do.
"It's more of a hobby than a money-maker. I still keep my full-time job. I like coming here - it's not like a job," Rhone said.
For those who buy comics regularly, the shop offers a subscription service. Those who subscribe to between 1-29 comic books receive 10 percent off each new book and 20 percent off back issues. Anyone who subscribes to 30 or more comic books will receive 13 percent off new issues and 25 percent off back issues.
The shop has a slightly out-of-the-way Griffith location with hard access during peak traffic times, but is worth the effort to reach because it provides a comfortable environment for all interested in comics and gaming.
Crystal Kolasa, a freshman majoring in hospitality/tourism management, enjoys browsing at Creative Comics because of the pleasant environment. Kolasa added that she has - as most women who enjoy comics and/or gaming have - looked for comic shops where female customers are treated the same as male customers, not leered at or ignored.
With no employees, Rhone relies on help from friends who can help out with the shop occasionally so he can spend some time with his family. Rhone gets to know his customers individually.
"I like to make it more personal," Rhone said. "You get to hear everyone's story; you get to know people. "I've made a lot of friends through the shop."
Brian J. Lynch, a Hammond resident, visits Creative Comics weekly and subscribes to approximately 20 comic books a month.
"It's not the largest shop I've ever been in, and sometimes I have to dig through boxes to find what I'm looking for, but there's always a hidden gem to be found," Lynch said. "I've been reading comics since I was 8 years old, so I've been in quite a few shops - and I have to say, Jim's is hands-down the friendliest and most comfortable,"
Between people perusing the large selection of comics and the crowded tables of gamers, the small shop is often abuzz.
Creative Comics is host to weekly games of HeroClicks, Pirates, Magic: The Gathering, Yu-gi-oh, and the Legend of the Five Rings. The games are open to everyone and generally have players ranging in age from 9 years old to 45 years old, according to Rhone.
Those interested in learning about game tournaments, tournament prizes, special events, and the upcoming week's comic book release list should visit Creative Comics at 216 E. Main St. in Griffith or call 924-1600.
Originally published in The Chronicle in February 2007 as Jade Lee Culberson.
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