"This year... we are making several changes for this event", says "George" Award and Superheroes Auction" organizer, Jim Hambrick. "Admission has been lowered from $35.00 to $15.00 as we have excluded the main expense of a catered dinner to save on cost to kind of make-up for the slower economy. We have decided to go with a "Movie Theater" concession set-up with Hot dogs, warm Soft Pretzels, chips, movie theater type candy and soft drinks and bottled water and of course popcorn and other surprises! We are hoping to increase attendance by at least 30% this year!"

Another key change this year will be the addition of a "Silent Auction" for what is considered the "low end" and "more repeticious" items which will begin Friday afternoon and through the regular auction Saturday night with periodical "winner" announcements, door prizes and more inbetween action.

"We will continue the traditional activites that have helped make the "Annual 'George' Award and Superheroes Auction" an overwhelming success over the last decade", says Hambrick. "And with streamlining this event to try and save money for everyone and time as we are hoping to give everyone a chance to also enjoy other events still taking place on Saturday night."

The event is relocating to the newly remodeled (co-sponsored by "Harrah's) "Metropolis Community Center" at 900 West 10th St.

"The former location at the "Merv Griffin Theater" was becoming a little worn, rough around the edges and less accomidating and...we actually needed more space to grow", says Hambrick. "To be honest, "Harrah's Casino Hotel" was just way too expensive for us and it wasn't really "child friendly" enough according to many who bring their children to the event. Afterall, it's always about the kids (young AND old)! Which reminds me...absolutely no alchohol in the community center and we are certainly okay with that change as well."

A percentage of the admission price will be donated to the "Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation" which is now more active than ever now that President Barack Obama has signed into law a bill named for "Superman" actor Christopher Reeve that provides for paralysis research and rehabilitation. The Reeve measure provides care for paralyzed persons and others with disabilities.

"We look forward to the changes for all and hope to see you there this year as. And we also look forward to seing new faces too. It really is a FUN and ENTERTAINING event! And we really sometimes never know who's going to show up", says Hambrick. "And we know how much the collectors and fans from all over the world enjoy this show! So bring in the cool HERO goodies you have for the auction and make money on your DC comics related Superheroes items, make new friends and let's all have another great time at the annual Superman Celebration "George" award and Superheroes Auction!"

Advance ticket purchases are highly recommended as seating is limited and, with the new "special ticket prices", it's sure to sell out early this year.

For advance tickets call Connie at at the Super Museum at (618) 524-5518 Monday - Friday between 10:00am - 5:00pm.