Tardy’s Underground Comics & Collectibles is the perfect place for you if you’re a fan of new and classic comics or a toy collector looking for rare toys. With experienced staff and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home. Located in Allegan, Kort Johnson is always available to help you find any obscure collectibles you may be looking for during your visit. Visit Tardy’s Underground Comics & Collectibles for all your nostalgic needs.
Tardy’s Underground recently celebrated its second anniversary on January 14th. It is the second location of the original store, Tardy’s Collector’s Corner, Grand Rapids location. Tardy’s Underground, managed by Kort Johnson, also provides pull, and hold lists, as well as special-order services for customers’ convenience. Kort’s daughter-in-law, Landria Johnson, who is also the owner of the Sassy Olive in Allegan, contributed to the shop by adding the most eye-catching wallpaper decorations a comic nerd could ever ask for. It truly is a gift and a visual treat.
Tardy’s Underground specializes in everything related to comic books and pop culture. It is in the heart of downtown Allegan and is the go-to destination for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The store offers an extensive collection of vintage and new collectibles, including comic books, action figures, trading cards, posters, and much more. You can find a wide range of items from your favorite franchises, such as Marvel, DC, Star Wars, and many others. Moreover, the staff at Tardy’s Underground is friendly, knowledgeable, and always eager to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you’re a hardcore collector or just starting, Tardy’s Underground Comics & Collectibles is the perfect place to explore and indulge in your passion for comics and pop culture.
As soon as you step into the sunken basement location, you will be amazed by a large display case that is filled with loose toys, each representing positive memories from different decades. If you turn to your right, you will find a wall that is fully stocked with new and recently released comic books. Every Wednesday, the store receives new comic book releases. Among the new releases and the extensive selection of toys, there is a massive section dedicated to back issues. You can easily lose track of time searching for that elusive missing issue to complete your much-needed story arc. Tardy’s regularly restocks their collection of back issues, so you always have a reason to come back.
Gavin and Deanna Willard, the owners of this local business, have played a significant role in organizing a variety of fun and engaging events. These events include Anniversary Sales, Batman Day Celebrations, Halloween Costume Contests, Free Comic Book Days, sidewalk sales, and many more. The local community has always enjoyed these events, which have provided a great opportunity for people to come together and have a good time. Gavin and Deanna have been the driving force behind a series of entertaining and family-friendly events. Among them, the Flashback Friday event is my personal favorite. This event was a collaboration between The Regent Theatre and Tardy’s Underground Comics & Collectibles and featured a screening of the classic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. The audience was thrilled to relive the iconic moments of the movie on the big screen, and the atmosphere was electric. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie was first released in theaters on March 30, 1990, and remains a cult classic to this day.
Gavin and Deanna Willard started their entrepreneurial journey by buying and selling items on eBay from their small apartment in Holland. Over time, they have honed their skills and established themselves as one of the top experts in West Michigan when it comes to comic books and toys. They had been longtime patrons of the original Tardy’s Collector’s Corner located in Grand Rapids. When Kirby Tardy decided to retire, Gavin and Deanna were the perfect choice to take over the store. They hold great admiration and respect for the business and are committed to continuing Tardy’s legacy while living out their dream.
Free Comic Book Day takes place on the first Saturday of May each year. This year, May 4th is also Star Wars Day. Gavin and Deanna are always searching for ways to connect with the community. Free Comic Book Day takes place on the first Saturday of May each year. This year, May 4th is also Star Wars Day. Gavin and Deanna are always searching for ways to connect with the community.
Team Tardy participates in shows, and conventions and organizes events such as signings, guest appearances, and Free Comic Book Day celebrations in both their Michigan locations and beyond.
Donald Talonen
I was born in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and raised in Holland, Michigan. I have a positive attitude towards life, and I always try to learn something new every day. This mindset has allowed me to experience many interesting things in life, from bagging groceries to building log homes and spending time as an industrial painter.
I discovered my passion for working with databases while working in information systems. I enjoy the analytical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning aspects of my work. My job has taught me the importance of collaboration, and I value the benefits it brings.
I am passionate about writing and dream of becoming a writer. I believe that writing allows me to express myself and inspire others. I also enjoy photography, videography, and music production as they allow me to express my creativity and bring my ideas to life.
In addition to these, I also have a strong attachment to comic book heroes. As a child, I was always fascinated by their extraordinary abilities, their unique personalities, and the impact they had on the world around them. I enjoy drawing and often find inspiration from these characters, which has helped me to develop my artistic skills over the years. Overall, I believe that my passion for writing and content creation, combined with my love for comic book heroes, has shaped me into the person I am today.
I find solace in the act of creation and enjoy inspiring others to pursue their passions. I hold a firm belief that where there is a will, there is a way.