The Phoenix Comicon had to make massive changes to the costuming policy after a man armed with several guns made it through security. The changes understandably upset several people who had spent hours working on their costumes and weaponry. The Comicon organizers worked with the police and updated their policy again today with clarifications. First, it’s important to remember that this man was heavily armed and we are all glad no one was hurt.
The list of prohibited items is short and comprehensive:
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Alcoholic Beverages
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Illegal drugs
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Weapons of all types including Simulated Weapons.
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</ul>
Permitted props include:
<blockquote>
Wands, sonic screwdrivers, plushies, masks, fairy wings, empty holsters, signs attached to costumes, fur suits, cardboard made costumes and non-weapon props, dishware associated with costumes, empty quivers, hats and helmets, Power Ranger Morphers, and umbrellas, by example, are allowed.
Ghostbuster proton packs are allowed however the Neutrino wand will need to be disconnected or permanently attached to the pack.
Any items not specifically listed here are subject to security discretion and may or may not be allowed.
</blockquote>
If you want to buy prop weaponry at the convention, you may do so, but sellers are required to keep the props are sealed and the buyers must leave them sealed until they leave the convention center.
There are now only three access points to the convention:
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<li>
Second Street between Washington and Monroe
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Third Street at Washington Street
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Third Street and Monroe <strong>This is the only place where attendees can pick up badges</strong>
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</ul>
In addition, and sadly, Con on Third will no longer be open to the general public. Convention badges are required to enter.
Convention organizers ask that you arrive early at the convention to allow for enhanced screening, including magnetic wands and backpack checks. Bring patience, good humor, and maybe a trivia game, movie, or book to help pass the time in line.
Anyone who no longer wishes to attend due to the changes may request a refund by emailing <a href=”mailto:[email protected]” target=”_blank”>[email protected]</a>. The email adds, “As all staff and crew are onsite running the convention we will not beginning responding until after Phoenix Comicon and anticipate it may take thirty days or longer to fully process all refund requests. Please be patience and thank you for your understanding.”
There’s plenty to enjoy still at the convention, and we’d love to see pictures of you there! Post them in the comments section, please, or Tweet them to <a href=”https://twitter.com/fgnmag” target=”_blank”>@FGNMag</a>. Have a great time!
The full update including access points is on the convention site at: <a href=”https://phoenixcomicon.com/urgent-update” target=”_blank”>phoenixcomicon.com/urgent-update</a>
News via update email and <a href=”http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix-breaking/2017/05/25/armed-man-arrested-phoenix-comicon/347315001/”>Azcentral.com</a>. Crossposted from <a href=”http://fangirlnation.com/2017/05/26/phoenix-comicon-props-update/” target=”_blank”>FangirlNation</a>