Cobra Commander has finally won.

The evil mastermind behind the terrorist organization known as Cobra and the longtime enemy of G.I. Joe has conquered the unassuming town of Springfield, Illinois, but not by force. In fact, Springfield Mayor J. Michael Houston welcomed the Cobra invasion with open arms, later presenting the cobalt commander with the key to the city.

"Springfielders near and far, I accept your Mayor's generous gift," Cobra Commander told the people of Springfield in a rousing speech. "And let it be known that I too bring a gift for every man, woman and child of this city that is so near and dear to my heart; an invitation to join with me. Join Cobra!"

Where is G.I. Joe when you need them? Probably down the street at G.I. JoeCon, the official G.I. Joe collector's convention to be held from April 9-12 at the Prairie Capital Convention Center. The convention will see thousands of G.I. Joe fans (a.k.a. Cobra troops) congregate in Springfield for the annual convention to attend panels, meet G.I. Joe voice actors and, of course, purchase copious amounts of G.I. Joe merchandise.

But of all the places for Cobra to conquer and to hold G.I. JoeCon, why Springfield? Interestingly enough, Springfield actually once served as the location of a Cobra secret base in G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero. G.I. JoeCon will be releasing a special video (a.k.a. Cobra propaganda) documenting Cobra Commander's visit to town leading up to the hostile takeover of the convention center in the coming weeks.

What dastardly plans will Cobra set in motion now that he has the key to the city? No one can say for sure, but it probably involves kicking innocent puppies. Find out next time on G.I. Joe!

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