Web-Head Enterprises Attracts Magic and Comic Book Fans

For more than a decade, local residents have been able to make the most of their hobbies with help from a Wakefield business.

Web-Head Enterprises co-owner Dean Poli of Melrose explained in a recent conversation with Patch.com that he has been with the store since 1997, and that he and Mark Murphy of Salem bought it completely in 2003. 

Poli said the store sells something for everyone, from a child-friendly comic section to westerns and war movies - with an overall specialty in comics and Magic.

Lauren Bromberg, 33, of Nahant, began as a collector 20 years ago in the former Stoneham store and now is a volunteer clerk [pictured]. 

"There are other stores like this, but this one is nicer, more comfortable, and neater," Bromberg said. "It's much more personal, and the staff is knowledgeable."

She noted it sells graphic novels, ranging from $13 to $25, which contain multiple issues with one complete storyline. Batman 'Hush' is one of the most popular.

The store buys and sells DVDs, and its music selection is constantly evolving with new and used CDs coming in. As for comics, quality artists or limited editions are hung on the walls of the store. 

Craig Polizzi, 23, of Stoneham, is a member of the local store's email list. 

"It has a strong community feel to the store, as all the workers engage the customers in conversations about their purchases as well as sports and movies."

Polizzi is a subscriber, which means he pre-orders weekly issues of such books as Spiderman, Avengers, Iron Man, Batman, Superman, Justice League, Walking Dead as well as lesser known comics from Image Comics and Dark Horse Comics, which come out Wednesdays.

"I first visited Web-Head when I was very little," Polizzi told Patch. "As I grew older, I always passed it and wondered if it changed, so when I got back into comic books, I went there to get comics, because it was close, and I loved it."

Josh Davison, 19, of Nottingham, England, plays Magic at the store biweekly when he lives in Reading during school break.

"It's a hard game -- you have to mentally indulge your brain, but you have fun with people who are like-minded," Davison stated. "It's a game of skill, but just like any other game, it doesn't hurt to have a bit of luck. It's harder to find places to play Magic in England."

Kevin Jennings, sales clerk of seven years, runs the Magic nights, where 18 to 24 teenagers play Magic Thursday and Friday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. [pictured]. He has played Magic for 20 years.

"I run Magic tournaments, determine pricing for the cards, and buy used cards from customers."

According to the website, the back issue room is more than 2,500 square feet and contains one of the largest collections of back issues in New England with more than 100,000 books in stock.

Jason Priddy, 33, of Wakefield, commented on why he is interested in comics and Batman collectibles, owning everything Batman but a comforter and car covers.

"I'm totally interested in comics because they immerse you in alternate realities, and keep you as a kid at heart," Priddy explained. "Batman because he's just a normal guy trying to make a difference. He has no super powers to help him."

For more information, visit Webhead's website here.