Post by: NoBody on April 14, 2007, 03:55:22 PM
Would like to say hi to everyone who was there. Did anyone get a pic of the two dudes showing their tattoo's off?
~Luke~
Post by: condor knight on April 14, 2007, 07:23:30 PM
Post by: savageplay on April 14, 2007, 07:51:09 PM
ya I had a blast and already can't wait for next year. it was great meeting everyone.
Post by: Cobra Freak on April 14, 2007, 10:26:39 PM
Cobra Freak ;D
Post by: xhairs on April 15, 2007, 12:45:24 AM
Post by: xhairs on April 15, 2007, 12:45:53 AM
Post by: Jon S. on April 15, 2007, 03:07:29 AM
Kudos to Mike & Co. (the many people who worked hard on this event) for a job well done!
Post by: Redskull on April 15, 2007, 04:11:23 AM
Post by: Doc Von Eyeball on April 15, 2007, 07:18:25 AM
PS: I'm the bald short one.......
Post by: Pete The Greek on April 15, 2007, 10:45:19 AM
I actually played more wrestling this time than ever before.
Post by: Snake Charmer on April 15, 2007, 11:42:49 AM
BEST MEET EVER!!!!!
Post by: Deadshot on April 15, 2007, 01:24:29 PM
It was great to see everyone again too.
Post by: night force cynic on April 15, 2007, 02:39:22 PM
I'm emailing the best of the pictures to the joecanuck email today, the one on my myspace is the one below here, I might blog about it later tonight too. Lots of great memories from this thing! Can't wait to see everyone else's pics too.
(http://http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b190/wookietattoo/joecanuckmods.jpg)
Post by: master_stanley on April 15, 2007, 03:29:02 PM
Post by: grunt 4 mvp on April 15, 2007, 03:33:16 PM
Thanks to the dealers who hooked me up with a key figure on my want list and more than a dozen accesories I've been searching for. The trade table was great and the exclusive fig is even cooler up close.
I even enjoyed the refreshments of timbits and salami sticks! :wink:
Thanks to Mike and all who helped! ;D
Post by: xhairs on April 15, 2007, 05:17:01 PM
(http://http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/6167/joemeet020smalliu0.jpg) (http://http://imageshack.us)
Post by: xhairs on April 15, 2007, 05:17:50 PM
Post by: ViperDave on April 15, 2007, 06:11:26 PM
Post by: Agent_Loop on April 15, 2007, 07:27:47 PM
Post by: AmazonGrl on April 15, 2007, 09:09:45 PM
This was my first Joe Canuck Meet and it was AMAZING! I had a lot of fun and it was great to meet everyone.
Post by: gsmiley007 on April 15, 2007, 09:27:33 PM
Great seeing everyone again and meeting the new ones.
Did some awesome trades and got rid of stuff.
Post by: Realboss on April 15, 2007, 10:07:04 PM
I promise next year I'll make sure I can stay longer and spend more money. I missed the results of the speed painting contest---who won?
Post by: night force cynic on April 15, 2007, 10:31:43 PM
Quote from: "Realboss"
I missed the results of the speed painting contest---who won?
Moto Viper!
Dude flew all the way from Australia to win Best Custom and 1st place Speed Painter.
Post by: Realboss on April 15, 2007, 10:34:16 PM
Post by: xhairs on April 15, 2007, 10:57:31 PM
Quote from: "night force cynic"
Quote from: "Realboss"I missed the results of the speed painting contest---who won?
Moto Viper!
Dude flew all the way from Australia to win Best Custom and 1st place Speed Painter.
yup that was awsome for him and for him to come all that way it was great to see him win so much stuff. it was a great time. im glad we went it was a blast.
Post by: slopypantz on April 15, 2007, 11:12:59 PM
Cynic and X-Hairs, are you happy now? I'm in.
Nothing like making a 15 hour day just for Joes surrounded by folks that understand this hobby/addiction/affliction.
Thanks for the inspiration Raptor: the Broken Silence will be made or I'll die trying.
Post by: xhairs on April 15, 2007, 11:18:30 PM
Quote from: "slopypantz"
A good time was had for sure.
Cynic and X-Hairs, are you happy now? I'm in.
Nothing like making a 15 hour day just for Joes surrounded by folks that understand this hobby/addiction/affliction.
Thanks for the inspiration Raptor: the Broken Silence will be made or I'll die trying.
yes about time bro lol. it was a fun ride for sure lol. a well spent 15hrs. oh email me thouse pics will ya.
Post by: BHMike on April 15, 2007, 11:25:48 PM
I won't have time to 'really' reply to threads for a day or two, I'm reading them - but not 100% replying just yet.
You guys can also thank Denise, Jen, Raptor, and Scramble as well. The girls handled the door and raffle tickets, Raps and Scramble did the speed painting.
I also have to thank Stealth Viper, Radio Guy and Morgardee for being "fill in's" when I needed them.
Oh, and let's all applaud Loop for the artwork! ;D ;D
As for the box of figures that went. If ANYONE saw who took them - LMK via PM or email.
That's the wrong spirit in which they were brought up to the meet for.
Kids should always get the first pick of the freebie table - toys ARE afterall made for kids. ;-)
Email me any pictures you guys have - or send me your links to online photobuckets, etc.
Lastly, I'll 'youtube' the video segment when it airs on TV up here so you can all see Scramble and myself look like fools on TV. ;-)
Mike
Post by: night force cynic on April 15, 2007, 11:37:58 PM
Quote from: "slopypantz"
A good time was had for sure.
Cynic and X-Hairs, are you happy now? I'm in.
Thanks for the inspiration Raptor: the Broken Silence will be made or I'll die trying.
Broken Silence? Hell yeah, I love the name of that alone. And as I said while we were there, when that vehicle is coming together and looking sharp finally, I'll design a driver for it.
And yeah, I'm happy now. ;D
Finally making a Meet was SO worth the 15 hours. Looking forward to doing it again.
I think I'll make a modern style Shiver figure for '08 meet too....
Post by: VEGA1 on April 16, 2007, 02:35:35 AM
Post by: VEGA1 on April 16, 2007, 02:39:55 AM
SWEET!
Post by: BHMike on April 16, 2007, 09:40:58 AM
Mike
EDIT: I also merged all the 'Report' threads to this one thread.
Post by: latinjoe22 on April 16, 2007, 01:31:32 PM
Out of everyone at the Meet you were one of my top new gijoe connections! This was also my very first Meet and although I didn't get to speak much with the more regular attendees of the annual Meet, it was my highest privilege and surely the most fun meeting other people who were new and just as excited as I was. I look forward to any emails from you and to trade my viper pilot to you (I'm looking for a gijoe Defiant so maybe you can help me too in the future). And I hope the gijoe game I left with you will find a purpose with the one who will earn it. Take good care and welcome to the forum!
Post by: BHMike on April 16, 2007, 01:45:55 PM
Quote from: "night force cynic"
(http://http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b190/wookietattoo/joecanuckmods.jpg)
And for those curious (From Left to Right)
THE Mike, Pete The Greek, Night Force Cynic, Loop, Raptor (bottom), Scramble.
Post by: Scramble on April 16, 2007, 02:16:50 PM
How is this meet so cool? What is it that brings people in from further away each year? And why should every GI Joe fan book time off at THE Mike?s whim?
Friday, April 13th
Last year, we found out that Montreal is as far away from Hamilton as Kentucky. However, Kentucky drivers only have to worry about the border. When we?re driving in front Montreal, we have to worry about Friday afternoon Toronto traffic. Since we didn?t want to relearn that three hour bumper-to-bumper lesson, Tank-Girl and I planned to leave before 7:00am, make as few pits stops as possible, and pray for good weather. Naturally, it snowed. In April. After the groundhog promised a short winter. When Mother Nature comes to Montreal, she must get very drunk. The weather probably wouldn?t have been so bad if we hadn?t taken off our snow tires just this week.
Would we let something as simple as a freakish snowfall and dangerous driving conditions deter our enthusiasm? Screw that! We packed the car with our clothes, the figures and vehicles we were selling, and Tank-Girl?s baked goods, and we were on our way. To further proof my drunken Mother Nature theory, the snow ended just short of the Quebec/Ontario border.
Tank-Girl and I live together. We spent every day of the week together, share many friends, and socialize pretty much seven days a week. That may sound like a wonderful relationship ?and it truly is- but there isn?t much left to talk about on a seven hour car ride that we?ve taken together three years in a row. We don?t own many CDs or an MP3 player and there are long gaps without radio signals. So to fill the void, this year we downloaded close to ten hours of pod casts. Slice of Sci-Fi is a pod cast radio show about the latest in science fiction and made the drive fly by very quickly. If you?re planning a road trip, I strongly advise downloading a few pod casts yourself to pass the time.
We by-passed Toronto easily and arrived at Raptor?s home right on time. The plan was to sleep on an air mattress in one of his rooms. Viperlord would get the basement when he got there, and Moto-Viper the living room. When we arrived, a flustered Raptor informed us that plans had changed; there was no air mattress for us. Instead, he and his wife would sleep on an air mattress in their daughter?s room and Tank-Girl and I would sleep in their bed. I told him that the only way he could be more accommodating would be if he rented a hotel and just handed us the keys to his house.
Lance Sputnik and AmazonGrrl dropped by just before Raptor went to pick-up Viperlord and Moto-Viper from the airport. So there we were, an Ohioan couple and a Montreal couple standing in the Hamilton house of a family that wasn?t home. This could have been weird, this could be the premise of a horror movie, but it was just another perfect example of the insane lengths GI Joe fans will reach to help one another. Raptor?s family converted their home into a hostel for a weekend to convenience a few people Raptor knows online and gets to see once, maybe twice a year. You could literally count the number of days we?ve spent together on your fingers, and yet I love this man and consider him a great friend.
The day before the meet is very important to me because it lets us talk with fellow fans about things other than GI Joe. Sure, there?s plenty of GI Joe talk that day too, like seeing the multi-leveled Pitt Raptor made out of his basement closet. But it?s the time I get to ask Moto-Viper what his life is like in Australia that I would not have had otherwise. Similarly, I got to chat with him and Viperlord about the differences between Candian, American, and Australian chocolate bars. These completely sick topics that don?t fit into a fan convention setting are what separate friends from guys that share a hobby. When Raptor pointed out ?This is the most people I?ve ever had in my house at one time,? it made me see the one downside to the constant growth of this meet: Fewer opportunities to connect with people. AmazonGrrl and Lance Sputnik are a good example. The year before, I was calling everyone by their real name by the end of the first night. This year, they were pretty much AmazonGrrl and Lance the whole time. It didn?t help that Lance?s board name could be a real name, but his real name is Jay, also the real name of Loop and the board name of the man formerly known as Jin. And don?t even get me started on all the Petes! So confusing.
I was happy to see THE Mike arrive in time to school everyone in Smackdown vs Raw. THE Mike is always so busy the day of the meet that I almost feel selfish trying to chat with him. It's also nice to know he had a chance to relax hours before this huge event he was hosting. Hanging out with him and his wife Denise is always a treat, as was the unofficial unveiling of the first complete Shiver.
The night wound down with a few games of the GI Joe TCG, where I impressed myself by going undefeated the entire night, including a close win against Nova?s infamous Ninjar deck. I also got my Sigma Six figures! Since Canada only gets every few waves and Quebec even less than that, I?ve had to rely on the kindness of Americans to pick them up and smuggle them across the boarder for me. It?s strange to finally receive a half-dozen toys I?ve already paid for. Strange and awesome! Thanks to Viperlord and General Hawk (who was absent from the meet and had to mail the figures to Viperlord), I now had one of every Joe I wanted from the first year, and the latest Zartan and Cobra Commander in black. I?ll let Viperlord tell the story of all the problems the blinking LED caused him, as he?s a master storyteller. All this to say it was very satisfying to have a room full of 3 ?? loyalists ask to play with Sigma Six figures in spite of themselves.
Saturday, April 14th
THE Mike gave the Hamilton Meet steroids. Once upon a time, he, Raptor, Pete The Greek, Jon S, and Bandelero got together and talked GI Joe. Five years, three exclusive figures, an exclusive card, and the fanfare of legend, the popularity of the Meet exploded. The new location was twice the size of the bowling alley basement of the last few years. There was an outer ring of dealers tables and then an inner circle of more dealer?s table. A line of excited fans waited outside for the meet to start. Holy crap, THE Mike put Hamilton on THE Map.
Tank-Girl and I were allowed in early because we had a table. She was selling baked goods, I was selling some extra Joes and my convention sets. The theme this year seemed to be ?complete vehicles for cheap?. A vehicle junkie could get his fix with a wide variety of nice toys for as low as $2, and an average of less that $10. The other theme of the day: Trading. It?s great to see two people argue that they are getting the better end of the deal. Combined with the endless items on the free table, the generosity of the attendees was well-pronounced.
Between Hamilton and New Orleans, it?s fun seeing people I?ve met before. Pete the Greek, Loop, Jon S, Stealth Viper, Deadshot, Morgardee, GSmiley, and Realboss are all Hamilton mainstays. Night Force Cynic and ViperDave I got to see again. And I met xhairs -whose Back-Stop customs are front row of my Back-Stop shelf- and, funny enough, fellow Montrealer Latin Joe. We caught up, Tank-Girl sold them brownies, fun was had.
On top of great people, good prices, and wall-to-wall 3 ?? Joes (with one notable 12? exception), there were the events, contests, and customs on display. I brought the lastest of my meager custom collection, which for the first time did not include any customs of Back-Stop. The Black Ice Snake, manned by my back-up Black Ice and two Black Ice-Vipers, was well complemented. But there was no competing with the attention Nova?s gigantic Crystal Ball diorama. He managed to pack two tables with what had to be five hundred Crystal Ball figures, at least two dozen of which were customs. Searching between standard Crystal Balls for gems like Crystal Brawl and Blue Balls was like a Where?s Waldo book. And as gigantic as his display was, he didn?t even bring them all. Tank-Girl was hoping to see the Crystal Baroness custom I?d told her about, but the Iron Balladiers were at home, Nova said.
At two o?clock, we began the Speed Painting contest, where contestants would randomly pull a Franken-Joe they?d never seen before and would have one hour to paint this figure, with the only guideline being that he must be associated with the Scrapheap, a custom vehicle that would be given to the winner as a prize.
THE Mike cleared two tables and set-up as many chairs as he could, fourteen. Counting Raptor, who was participating but would not be judged as he was one of the organizers and judges, we had fourteen people join, including two ten year olds, who were painting their first customs. Tank-Girl pulled the guaranteed worst figure of the Franken-Joes, a catastrophe of colours that included a Serpentor head, Red Dog torso, and I believe Overlord left arm. Not the best parts to make a custom out of, but she pressed on.
During the contest, I was interviewed by a local news show about GI Joe fans are customizing. I am slowly becoming GI Joe?s ambassador to television. I hope I spoke for everyone when I talked about the multiple levels of customs, and look forward to seeing the footage when it airs on YouTube.
I enjoyed running the Speed Painting and enjoyed even more reminding the contestants how little time there was left. But best of all was seeing veteran customizers imparting the wisdom of their experience onto first-timers even as time was running out. In the end, we had some great customs and a few that were downright incredible. Moto-Viper took the top prize, with a custom called Death?s Head, which turned a Scrap-Iron head into a skull. Even though he was probably the worst possible person to win a fragile vehicle custom since he had to fly back to Australia in a week, he earned it. He also won the custom contest for Ice Breaker, a female associate of Black Ice?s with a stunning hand-painted Maple Leaf with Cobra logo, and a wolf that deserved to be mounted on a wall. I considered breaking his fingers because I hate being jealous of people.
Speaking of fingers, the button-mashing extravaganza that is Smackdown vs Raw: GI Joe vs Cobra was once again a highlight. CAWs (Create-A-Wrestler) based on our favourite Joe characters, with a mix of self-customs, duke it out in a single elimination tournament until one man is left standing, holding a trophy overhead. When Raptor won last year, having only played the game for less than a week, it sent out a notice: Anyone could win this tournament.
I faced veteran player Morgardee in probably the first round?s biggest match. Many of the tournament entrants didn?t own the game, so having two guys that did face off so early was impressive. He chose his self-custom, I took my Back-Stop CAW, and we got it on. Dave kept his streak alive, getting eliminated once again in the first round. My second match was a rematch from last year?s first round, taking on Loop. He was quick and crafty, using Storm Shadow?s skills to the best of their ability. But when it came down to it, Storm Shadow may be a ninja, but Back-Stop is Canadian. I advance to the semi-finals.
Lo and behold, my opponent would be the defending champion himself, Raptor. Last year he beat me in a Hell in a Cell in the finals, stealing my trophy and crushing my pride. This year I could not think of anything better than an exact rematch. Raptor, using Raptor, vs Scramble using Back-Stop, in a Hell in a Cell. When the Battle of 87 began, things weren?t looking good for me. Raptor may not have known the game that well, but the moves he did know he did over and over again. I think he kneed me in the face a dozen times in a row before changing moves to a springboard senton that he did another dozen times. By the time I stood up, Back-Stop had been worn down and my rage consumed my concentration. As soon as I took control, I made sure I dropped him with as many high impact moves as I could to even the score. He still managed to wear me down completely. If he landed his finisher on me, I knew I wouldn?t have been able to kick out. Somehow, I managed to build enough momentum to earn a finisher of my own, execute it, and pin him for a heart warming three count.
Last round, me versus THE Mike. I was expecting him to use his self-custom, but instead he went with a very cool Stalker. We were trying to determine the type of match, almost choosing an Iron Man match or TLC. Then THE Mike was struck with an idea: A special guest referee match, with Raptor?s self-custom as the ref. Raptor being last year?s winner, this would be the passing of the torch. The computer would control the ref, however, since the real Raptor had to step out for an hour. Since Special Referee matches could have a second stipulation, we also made it a Last Man Standing. To win a Last Man Standing match, you had to beat your opponent so bad he could not get up before a count of ten.
The match started and I found a nice advantage: Back-Stop was faster than Stalker. Instead of reversing his moves, all I had to do was throw a well-timed punch. And as anyone that?s memorized Back-Stop?s file card knows, Back-Stop is a golden gloves champion. THE Mike and I went back and forth evenly. I brought a chair into the ring, reminding THE Mike that weapons were legal. He briefly came back, only to get floored by a top rope elbow drop. Raptor started counting. Quickly. The computer decided it would screw THE Mike with a fast count! Five seconds later, Raptor had counted to ten and I won the trophy and the tournament! Booyah! Canadian Sensation owns all the gold.
Through gritted teeth, THE Mike next drew the final door prizes: The last Joe Canuck and the last Black Ice. Stealth Viper and GSmiley 007 took home the most elusive figures in all of fandom. The day came to a nice conclusion, it was time to pack up.
THE Mike has a legendary basement, and after everything was packed up, he wanted to bring those that had helped with the clean up back to his place to show it off. If you are a fan of GI Joe, He-Man, WWE Classics, Star Trek, or super heroes, pray one day you will be invited into THE Mike?s basement. You can stare at those figures for hours and not feel time move.
8:00 crept up on us and we were all very hungry. Every year, the hardcore of the Hamilton Meet go for supper together to digest the day and spent a few last hours with out of town friends. Much like the first day at Raptor?s house, this gives everyone a chance to socialize on more levels with fellow fans. It?s not technically part of the meet, but it?s definitely another highlight of a weekend so packed with goodness it?s hard to enjoy the rest of the year.
Post by: Raptor on April 16, 2007, 03:12:23 PM
-
Post by: Scramble on April 16, 2007, 04:04:13 PM
Post by: xhairs on April 16, 2007, 04:33:33 PM
Post by: Raptor on April 16, 2007, 05:41:18 PM
Quote from: "Scramble"
Speaking of tired, Tina and I forgot our air matress at your place. We're getting a new one anyway so I guess you can do what you see fit with that one.
Dude, I think you're supposed to keep the pillow talk to PM's.
I can't figure out how to use the jury rigged cap anyway. :shifty:
Post by: narceron on April 16, 2007, 08:19:25 PM
My favorite part of any con is always the pictures.
Its fun to see what crazy stuff people do, what they look like, etc.
Good write up scrams, :)
Post by: narceron on April 16, 2007, 08:24:29 PM
Quote from: "Realboss"
Moto Viper!
Dude flew all the way from Australia to win Best Custom and 1st place Speed Painter.
Man, I really gotta read more closely, I've always thought moto was a chic, doh!
Please don't hit me, please don't hit me, I'm inept, incompent, etc. . .
I was basically drawing on my wife's "Moto, thats a cool name for a viper."
Doh!
I think I will avoid the joe canuck meet, don't need to get beat up on foreign soil, :)
Post by: Raptor on April 16, 2007, 08:36:00 PM
But your gender bending feedback was a topic for humor and ridicule at your expense though. :lol:
Post by: Sputnik on April 16, 2007, 08:59:16 PM
ViperLord - Man, you are the hardcore. It was SO good to meat you in person. You kept me laughing the whole time. I gotta say though, that by the time you whupped me at all those TCG hands, I had been running on 18 hours of awakeness, plus coming out of having a cough/cold the day before, and I KNOW I was missing stuff that would have helped me beat you (like Saw Viper abilities...) So it looks like I will HAVE to come down to Atlanta for that other con, as I have a rematch coming to me
Moto - It's awesome that you made the trip. I know you weren't feeling too good and you seemed to have been cold THE ENTIRE TIME, so I salute you for making the trip. You and Andrew seemed to make it your mission to keep AG and I company at our table too, and that was cool. I just can't say enough how glad I am that you made the trip. And holy crap, man. What you did in an hour for the speed painting contest... AWE INSPIRING.
Stealth Viper - You were right. Hulkburger BAD! We didn't get to hang out as much, but your kid IS adorable, I'll give you that. I wish that we had been able to stick around for more fun on Sunday.
Mike - Damn man you put on a good show. Thank you so much for making it all happen, and for opening the doors to use clueless American dealers with all our useless Star Wars crap. We had a blast, and I am pumped at finally getting my hands on that Night Force Whale. And, yes, you were right, the Toy Room IS truly a sight to behold. Makes my measly 1 shelf of Boba Fett stuff look sort of like a joke though... Thanks again for everything.
Nova - Thank you for both clearing out the v1 BATs, and leaving me some Snow Serpent goodness. I had more money to spend on the SSs since there were no Bats to buy And as for the Crystal Army. I've seen it before, it's awesome, but everytime it gets better and better. I don't know how you come up with the set up that you do of the cuff like that. Every figure was posed as if you had the thing choreographed, but I know you couldn't have. Thanks for bringing the Crystal Blanka too, it was good to see him in action
There are so many others I would have liked to have talked to more, like Pete, ViperDave, NFC, and so on... heck, I didn't even KNOW Xhairs had been there until today :-
We are definately planning on a repeat visit for next year, though we would plan it a bit better. Even though I was sick one way or another the entire time, I had a blast. We moved some of our over purchased stuff, found some amazing deals on some long sought items and fetish items ( Snow Serpent v1 ), but the hanging out and chilling with likeminded individuals is what made the trip for me. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
I know I'm forgetting stuff, but hey - This is a pretty good length of post to staet out with, considering it's my first post here EVER!
Post by: xhairs on April 16, 2007, 10:12:06 PM
Post by: Pete The Greek on April 16, 2007, 11:56:21 PM
Posting some pictures of members at the meet with their board handle and real life name would help people like me to remember who is who.
Post by: Deadshot on April 17, 2007, 12:15:08 AM
Post by: savageplay on April 17, 2007, 12:35:26 AM
and everyone loves to win stuff....kids especially.
Post by: viperlord on April 17, 2007, 03:02:19 AM
DAY 1
My trip began when I arrived at the Omaha airport. I checked my duffel and sent my suitcase (With Ryan's Sigma 6 figures) through the x-ray. Apparently the blinking lights with TWO double A batteries was enough to cause alarm because they sent the bag back through the x-ray at least a half dozen times and called over 4 examiners to look at the machine. It probably didn't help that I was laughing my butt off. . .
I was crammed into the smallest freaking plane EVER in Omaha. Like a canned ham I squished myself into the seat and took off for Detroit. At least the connecting flight was on a decently sized plane that wasn't packed like a clown car :)
Arriving in Canada my trip through customs once again took all of five minutes. I gave Raptor a call, but apparently he's too good to answer his phone ;) Luckily I had Lance Sputnik's digits and was able to get an answer. His lovely wife Chandra answered the phone and both were apparently amused that I asked for "Lance". Sorry man, calling you Jay just doesn't work for me, you'll always be Lance to me.
Then Raptor arrived to pick me up. He was so cool in his dad's minivan that had I been a chick I would have TOTALLY made out with him! As I waited for Moto-Viper, he made the loop (The circle NOT the artist) over and over. Luckily for us Moto recognized me, because he had a freakin trenchcoat on over the clothes I was supposed to be looking for. Pete the Australian (Moto-Viper) is a Bond Villain in training. He has the accent, all he needs is the cat. As we drove from Toronto to Raptor's house many things were discussed: cultural differences, cars, television, even a few Joes ;)
Arriving at the nest I was greeted by faces familiar and not so familiar. Nova, Scramble, and Tank Girl I had met before. But the two giants I had not. Apparently they grow 'em big in Ohio because Lance and AmazonGrl are the two tallest people I've ever met. I was expecting (Based on his Myspace picture) Lance to be about my height. Between them, Nova, and Scramble I felt so short. . .
After a sumptuous taco dinner and birthday cheesecake (Happy Birthday Chandra!) we retired to the basement for various nerdly pursuits. We got our first look at Raps' create-a-wrestlers including the AMAZINGLY accurate Big Brawler. Watching him dry hump his opponents into submission was priceless. I also kicked Lance's ass in 4 TCG matches. It doesn't have a catchy name, but my yellow deck works OK :D After a brief visit from THE Mike we retired for the evening.
DAY 2
We rose and shone for Charles' eggs. Despite his doubts, they were FABULOUS! We dressed and loaded the MINIVAN!!! Then of course we we had to hit Tim Horton's for coffee. Personally I went for an energy drink instead, but with a convenience store that wouldn't take Visa ??? and lack of a USA compatible ATM it was a challenge.
Then we finally hit the Joe meet. I had read the numbers, but NOTHING prepared me for seeing the hall packed with vendors. We unloaded Raptor's van, checked in, and then the fun began. . .
Everytime I went near Lance and AG's table I spent money. I like to talk to them, but dang that was expensive! I got a TON of great deals, including a MIB Python Stun. I checked out the AMAZING customs table and the contest entries. I voted for Moto's figure (As did 64% of the other voters) based on the awesome paintwork. Then I was dragged onto the stage for wrestling. . .
I couldn't even move my character. Pete The Greek MERCILESSLY beat me into a bloody pulp and pinned me. It was the most embarrassing showing ever :'( Only a few Timbits and Pepperettes managed to console me. I LOVES me some pepperettes :)
Then came the speed painting. I bought my figure (I was disappointed that I didn't get the Serpentor headed one) and bought in one of the kids that was interested in what we were doing. There was some AMAZING paint work going on there. Hell I think even the little kid did better than I did! Plus my paint never fully dried. But it was fun! Again Moto took home the prize and again it was well deserved. I am AMAZED that he did that figure in under an hour.
Then came the big drawing for Black Ice and Joecanuck. I REALLY wanted Joecanuck but Ed won it. Mike later described the look on my face as if someone had kicked my puppy. But I'm glad that it went where it did. After a quick clean up and pictures a group of us retired to Mike's place to check out his AMAZING toy room. I REALLY wanted to just scoop his custom Star Trek figs into a bag and run like Hell, but I resisted.
Then it was time for dinner. While we waited for our food Loop, Scramble, Lance, and I put together my Python Stun in front of a stunned Mike. Silliness then ensued with balancing blueshirts, Skymates, and a BAAT. Loop and I had hotwings (Which Mike strangely rejected. . .) and everybody ate. We laughed, we conversed, it was great.
Back at Raptor's Scramble, Charles, Moto, and I examined eachother's hauls. I literally filled all my bags to bursting and once again split open my backpack. Exhausted we all collapsed into sleep.
DAY 3
Due to a last minute flight cancellation I got to stay an extra day in Canada and see Niagra Falls. Scramble went into chocolate overload in the Hershey?s store, we all ate at the Hard Rock Cafe and enjoyed the LEGENDARY high prices. Before I knew it it was time to go. I stopped to buy some souveniers and Raptor, and Moto snuck off without saying goodbye. As Ed was taking me to the airport the next morning I stayed with him.
We examined his AWESOME collection, talked Joes, laughed, and discussed "Shivergate" while he called Mike. We stayed up until midnight before passing out.
DAY 4
5am comes early when you go to bed late. . . Ed surprised me during my final repack by giving me an Electric Eel 2-pack. He's a great guy. We hit the Tim Hortons (Of course) and headed for the airport. We actually avoided most of the traffic and were there in no time. I said my final goodbye, zipped through customs again, and boarded a plane for home. It was over.
I reitterate again: If you want to go and hang out with a GREAT group and not spend a ton to do it, the Canuck meet if for you. I enjoy the Master Collector cons, but this is as good if not better. A big thanks to everyone who made it all happen and I'll see everyone next year!!!
Post by: Raptor on April 17, 2007, 09:47:13 AM
Post by: BHMike on April 17, 2007, 11:43:53 AM
FRIDAY
I was running around trying to get things finalized for the Joe Meet, so I got down to Raptors place later than I expected. Still, it was cool to finally see 'The closet' that I've heard about for years, and to see Charles impressive set up. It's also cool to know that I inspired portions of his collection - like his PITT, it'll never be the same as the one my dad made me as a kid, but it was damn cool! I met Nova, Lance, Amazon, and Moto-Viper - all of whom I've spoken to many many times, but never met until then. I also saw Scramble, Tank Girl, and Viperlord. I made a request that Viperlord bring me up a 'couple' of Butterfinger chocolate bars from the States..... I don't like the Canadian ones, and the American ones are just heaven. The dude brought me at least 20 of these things!? Thanks for supplying me with something to snack on as I watch Lost for the rest of the year VL! ;-)
I checked out some Sigma Six figures - Let me say this. I've always kinda liked the Destro figure from the line, and Snake Eyes (one of them) piqued my interest as well. But after seeing Ryans Zartan - I'm friggin' hooked. I have to have one..... and that's not a good thing. :shifty:
Speaking of Loop, people seemed to absolutely LOVE his art prints of Shiver. I know of about 7 people were dying to win one - and none of them did! I don't even know who did win them - besides Jon S. Once again I have to thank Loop. Not only is his work amazing, but he does the art for the Joe Meet figure for free. If you need ANY art done, seriously consider hiring Loop for it. You won't get his services for free - but any price he asks will be too cheap in my opinion.
A little known fact: I HATE talking infront of people. All my life I've hated being in front of a group of people. Due to these Joe Meets, I'm now over that. I noticed that on Saturday when I starting 'YELLING' to announce the draws. You see.... you guys all have your stories and such about the Joe Meets - and I'm right there with you. But the Joe Meet has now gotten me over one of my only 'fears' in life. And that's damn cool.
I helped judge the Speed Painting competition. I thought it would take me a short while to do.... MAN was I wrong! Alot of great figures were done. I think it was Stealth that said "I look at that and think - holy crap they did that in one hour?". That's how I thought of it as well. Each one was a great job. I look forward to adding the Speed Painting competition to every Joe Meet from now on. (Assuming Scramble and / or Raptor run it again!).
The wrestling tournament was welcomed by all again.
Someone tossed out the sheet, so this is the best I can remember it:
ROUND ONE[/b]
Erin vs XHairs (Xhairs)
Pete The Greek vs Viperlord (Pete The Greek)
Mike vs Tank Girl (Mike)
Metro vs. ?????? (Metro)
Scramble vs. Morgardee (Scramble)
Raptor vs. ???? (Raptor)
Loop vs GSmiley (draw: BOTH move on)
JOn S. vs. ??????? (JOn S.)
ROUND TWO[/b]
XHairs vs. Pete The Greek (Pete The Greek)
Mike vs Metro (Mike)
Scramble vs Raptor (Scramble)
Loop vs GSmiley vs. Jon S. (Three Way Match) - (Loop)
ROUND THREE: SEMI FINALS[/b]
Pete The Greek vs. Mike (Mike)
Scramble vs Loop (Scramble)
ROUND FOUR: THE FINALS[/b]
Mike vs. Scramble
The match stared out better than Scramble is letting on - it was back and forth for awhile. True, Scramble getting a chair did remind me that they were ALLOWED - but the fact that I didn't bother means I'm better than him anyway.
Scramble went to clothline me in the match, and hit the 'Guest Ref' = which was the 'real life' version of Raptor. After he hit Raps, Raptors character got up and started hitting Scramble. I took the chance to beat on him, mistakenly kicking Raptor in the process. Scramble knocked me off my feet, and Raptor screwed me out of winning! It's a conspiracy I tell you.... and I want a rematch. Since we're on the topic of the Joe vs. Cobra Wrestling, let's get back to Morgardee and his 'wrestling' obsession. For years, Morg and I have jokingly become rivals in the Wrestling game. It started the first year when I kept tossing him out of the ring. (Loop holds the record at going over at the 4 second mark - by me). So Morg and I would have a 'match' between us to see who the better man is. The first time, I won. The next time, I won.... see a pattern. Last year the game had a 'Create A Title' feature, so we pitted our titles against each other - I won, and in doing so became the 'Bastard' Champion taking his Bastard Title. So this year Morgardee got the game early and played the heck out of it. Mastering moves, techniques and such. He created a special character to use against me this year, and yes - both our titles were on the line again. He created Ronald McDonald. A clown so dear you could bust him open with a good chairshot to the head. (Trust me, I know!). Morgardee did pretty good... he got in more than 10 moves this year. But I squashed him. Seriously. I put him through the announcers table, made him bleed, jumped off a 2nd floor level and put him through a table. Yep, Ronald died at the Joe meet. Dave lost graciously, with everyone watching on, and I now own his 2007 Title belt as well. Next year, I won't even practice so he'll have a fair chance. ;-)
When it was time to clean up - people took over as I packed my items up. Denise, Jen, Jon, Pete, and others all helped put the tables away, close the windows, lock things up, and put all the garbage into one corner. Then EVERYONE grabbed a box of my items and helped bring it down to the van so we could leave. That was the QUICKEST I have ever packed up from a toy show. Wow. Thanks to you all - again, and I'm sorry if I missed anyone.
Like others said, we hit my place to see the Toy Room (it was on Viperlords list of things to do), and everyone seemed to enjoy seeing it. Some people like Pete, Ed, and Radio guy didn't come by, but they've all seen it before. After being here we realized we had to eat. I picked Kelseys, and as we sat down I remembered we had people waiting for us at Hooters. I'm SO sorry guys. It's completely my fault. I picked Hooters originally since it was so close and you guys would find it easy enough. After the day of being busy and stressed, it just completely slipped my mind. Hopefully you guys still had a great time at Hooters without us. Next time things should be planned out before-hand to make sure it doesn't happen again.
With dinner over, we said our good-byes to folks, and Denise, Nova, and myself headed back to my place. Nova and I (once again) were in the toy room talking about the day and all the stash he picked up. That bag of Bats was impressive. I should also say that this was the first time I ever read the Red Ninja file card. WTF was Hasbro thinking when they did that one!? ;-)
SUNDAY[/u]
I woke up MUCH earlier than anyone else and went downstairs to use the 'half finished' shower - it's not used much... as was evident by the wall of spider-webs I walked into when I got in... but that's another story. Anyway, I figured this way I wouldn't wake anyone up. Nova woke up about an hour later, followed by Denise. Ready to leave, we headed out the door to Raptors. The small group of us were going to visit Niagara Falls. The plan was to hit Raps, head to Steath's - then to the Falls. I had the great idea to get some free parking for us - so we parked at the Casino - more on that later. We parked our cars, and went down to the 'floor' level. Made a beeline for the Herseys Store, and Scramble had a grin on his face that went ear to ear. He was like a little kid in a toy store - looking around with 'wide-eyes' at the plethora of choices he could make! Would he buy the 2 foot long Hersey Bar that weighed 5lbs? Perhaps the Giant Peanut Butter cup? It quickly didn't matter when I told him there was FREE fudge in the corner. We didn't see him again for about 10 minutes. After that, we decided to eat. Hard Rock Cafe was our choice, and Scramble was thrilled to get a picture with a guitar that belonged to his idol "Bryan Adams". While waiting for dinner, I told folks that to get the 'free' parking in Niagara Falls, you had to go inside the Casino and 'sign up' for a 'Players Card'. So, once we ordered, I took Scramble, Tank Girl, and Nova inside to 'sign up'. Denise came with us - but only to tell the slots how much she missed them by inserting a $20.00 bill into them and 'pushing' their buttons. (She won her money back - plus $5.00). While teh other 3 were filling out their information for the 'Cards', I put $20.00 down on the Roulette table. I picked Red...... and I won! Woo Hoo for me! So, the guy gave me all my winnings, and I put it all on Black..... and I lost. Damn. The guy sitting at the table looked up at me and said "Well, that was 'Almost' impressive". I went back to wait for the other 3 (Denise was back in the restaurant), and watched tank Girl donate $10.00 to the slot machine of her choice. That was quick. ;-)
After our overpriced dinner with the crappy service, we headed into the Marvel Comics Fun Factory, then to the MGM Studios store before hitting what I 'know' was Viperlords favorite stop - WWE Niagara Falls. Ok... VL hates wresting, but he liked women, and there were pictures of them there... so it evened out.
After WWE, the group got split up. Ryan needed to get some Fudge from the 'only' place you should buy it from on Clifton Hill : The Fantasy Fudge Factory, and Moto, VL, Nova and the rest wanted to see the Falls. I've seen them so much, that it's now just water to me.... it's not so impressive when you live 30 minutes away. ;-)
Tank Girl and Scramble followed Denise and I to Hamilton until they knew where they were and could safelt find the way home. Denise and I then headed home and called it a day.
I enjoyed myself this weekend, but not 'as' much as past Joe Meets. The size of it this year (about 200 people through the door), and the fact that I was set up at it this year meant I couldn't talk to people as much or do anything really.... so next year, I think I'll just be 'there' and not sell anything. Don't get me wrong, I talked to a ton of people - but it's hard to talk to them, run my table, and the meet all at once. I could EASILY run my table and talk to people.... but then who would run the Joe Meet? :-)
Thanks again to everyone.
Mike
Post by: morgardee on April 17, 2007, 02:36:43 PM
Someone's gotta go down in grand style. Might as well be me. :wink:
Post by: BHMike on April 17, 2007, 02:40:29 PM
Quote from: "morgardee"
Someone's gotta go down in grand style. Might as well be me. :wink:
But at least you didn't jump off the cage this year. ;-)
Post by: Raptor on April 17, 2007, 02:50:16 PM
Also I was there on Sunday, really. I left early, but I was there. ;-)
-
Post by: morgardee on April 17, 2007, 04:58:27 PM
Quote from: "THE Mike?"
Quote from: "morgardee"Someone's gotta go down in grand style. Might as well be me. :wink:
But at least you didn't jump off the cage this year. ;-)
Now now. Lets no belittle my grand failure at Joe Canuck 2006. i jumped off that steel twice.
Post by: Radio Guy on April 17, 2007, 08:49:35 PM
I had a blast at the meet. Although I was not present at the very first one, I have been to all the rest, and this was awesome and...weird. As others have said, seeing all the vendors and the number of new faces walk through the door, the "little meet" is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with. I can only assume that the San Diego Comic Con started this way.
Anyway, although I still see Mike and Raptor and Condor Knight at the local toy shows, it was great to see Morgardee, Deadshot, Pete The Greek, Scramble, Loop and the other Joe Meet regulars. It was also great to see so many new dealers that were impressed with the turnout.
My favourite part of the meet has always been just talking Joe with others, and there was plenty of that. I also like the trades, and was happy to get a few pieces and hook up some others again this year.
I spent more money than planned, but very happily walked away with a complete Starduster and Claymore, plus several other figures to help fill the gaps in my collection.
I have never gotten into customizing figures, but have always admired the creations others display at the meet. This year was no different...they were amazing and kudos to Scramble and Raps for bringing the speed painting contest in this year. The figures were kewl, the bios were great, and I really enjoyed seeing everybody sweat as Scramble called out the time remaining.
Speaking of others creations, I brought in four big boxes of shells and incomplete vehicles and was stunned to see them pretty much dissappear within 30 minutes. I can only imagine the custom vehicles that will be created from all of those parts, and you can thank THE Mike for them, as they were picked up from the back alley of BHT after it closed.
I enjoyed watching the rasslin'...espceially Mike take on the clown and bloody him good....helped take away the sting of not being able to get the McRib anymore.
I bought some raffle tix hoping to win the Joe Canuck, but was happy that all the prizes went to good homes.
And on the topic of cutom figs...Shiver. Kicks. Ass. Mike, Loop and everyone who had a hand in it...thank you.
My only regret was that I was not able to join everybody for dinner afterwards, but there's always next year.
All in all, I have to say a big thank you to Mike for getting this Joe Meet ball rolling, and to everyone who helped, came out, and continue to support Canada's love for Joe. I can't wait till next year.
Cheers!
Radio Guy (Bryan)
Post by: fredxvii on April 17, 2007, 09:21:21 PM
Wasn't expecting to see so many people and so many vendors but oh man =p Drove up from buffalo after a friend emailed me that there was a con in my area so I figured eh something to do on my day off and maybe see some of the old stuff I used to have. We'll to make this fit I quit collecting a few years ago and sold off my massive collection of a few thousand figures and every playset known to man. As soon as I got in the door I met The Mike big guy he kicked me out for being to early =p Ah well after a nice breakfast at an all day breakfast joint(wish they had these in the states) went back to the show and thankfully didn't have to wait long to get in. Well as soon as I did blam seeing all the old stuff I used to have dragged me right back into the frenzy I bought around 20 figures and a mint stinger from the first table I came upon and ended up with around 40 by the end of the show. *raises fist* just when I thought I was done collecting =p
Donated a nice chunk of money to the raffles didn't win anything *boo* tho I was happy to support a great meet and hopefully I'll be able to come again next year.
And again damn you for getting me back into collecting these things they are addicting ;D
Post by: Metro on April 19, 2007, 08:42:29 PM
Getting caught browsing and then chatting with Loop. Totally caught me off guard but as always totally uh..refreshing. Ok, so maybe thats not the right word I want so I'll just say I always immensely enjoy talking with him.
Watching Luke (No Body) and NFC discussing the upcoming TF movie and tattoos was certainly interesting and was definitely a great highlight.
On the notion of a BHT re-union type dinner... I'll definitely say I'm in for that. Heading to the meet that morning I thought about all those hour long and then some chats just standing around in the shop. I miss those.
On the actual toys themselves: Shiver kicks ass and once I get my current Joe-Display set up again he'll be squaring off against JC. I got the chance to add a couple of smaller vehicles I'd always wanted which is awesome, and a nice Techo-Viper to boot too. Mmm, Techno-Viper.... And as for that aforementioned Thundermachine; its one of the jewels in my collection ;)
Mike, all I can say is the meet was fantastic. But not only that it rekindled my love for the hobby and gave me just what I needed. Every year you go and out-do yourself.
<--- One happy Joe-Canuck ;D
Post by: Pete The Greek on April 19, 2007, 11:30:39 PM
Quote from: "THE Mike™"
Like others said, we hit my place to see the Toy Room (it was on Viperlords list of things to do), and everyone seemed to enjoy seeing it. Some people like Pete, Ed, and Radio guy didn't come by, but they've all seen it before.
Hmmmm, I was driving up and down the Linc when this was happening, looking for your signs.
Post by: Pete The Greek on April 19, 2007, 11:46:57 PM
Quote from: "viperlord"
I couldn't even move my character. Pete The Greek MERCILESSLY beat me into a bloody pulp and pinned me. It was the most embarrassing showing ever :'( Only a few Timbits and Pepperettes managed to console me. I LOVES me some pepperettes :)
That even shocked me. The only video games I play are football and hockey on the PC. The last time I touched a wrestling video game was at the 2006 meet.
Post by: Moto-Viper on April 21, 2007, 09:52:33 PM
Post by: Scramble on April 22, 2007, 11:05:51 AM
Post by: Moto-Viper on April 22, 2007, 09:44:59 PM
Post by: Raptor on April 23, 2007, 08:42:10 AM
;D
-
Post by: Moto-Viper on April 23, 2007, 11:18:16 AM
I'm actuall feeling alot better now (though I've still got that damnable cough), but it yes, was fully sick.
Post by: Radio Guy on April 23, 2007, 01:27:53 PM
Quote from: "Moto-Viper"
Good, didn't do much and failed to take any pictures, but it was a most cromulent holiday. I actually spent a fair bit of time planning customs and vehicle paint schemes.
you embiggened the meet by attending! hope to see you next year!
b
Post by: Realboss on April 25, 2007, 07:34:01 PM
I think Mike's wife and friend did a great job at the door and I hope they know just how much it was appreciated. For if it weren't for them working the door some else from JoeCanuck would have to worry about all that went with the duty and miss out on most of the meet.
Thanks guys from all who attended.