Press Release:

Inaugural Lightsaber Run to Debut Leading up to 2012 San Diego Comic-Con International

Course of the Force run/walk from Santa Monica to San Diego will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation

San Francisco, CA (February 9, 2012) – Star Wars fans will have a chance to channel their Force of good-will while raising a lightsaber, an elegant symbol of hope, in an epic journey worthy of the Jedi Knights.

Lucasfilm Ltd., Nerdist Industries, Octagon and Machinima have teamed up to present Course of the Force, an Olympic-style lightsaber relay held July 7-11, where participants will make a journey from Santa Monica to San Diego while benefiting a worthy cause. At quarter-mile markers (much less than 12 parsecs), participants will hand off the official Course of the Force lightsaber to the next runner as they begin their leg of the journey. Course of the Force will take place in the days leading up to the annual San Diego Comic-Con International, July 12-15.

On top of creating an event for Star Wars enthusiasts to celebrate and embrace their love of the Saga, Course of the Force will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Fans will have the opportunity to participate in the historic lightsaber relay through various promotions and online calls to action.

Participants in the relay are encouraged to come decked out in their best Star Wars or pop culture-themed running gear, not only to look good but also to win prizes. Ancient Jedi Masters carried within backpacks are not required.

“The Course of the Force lightsaber run is a great cause that combines fitness with helping others, principles that aspiring Jedi Knights can embrace. We have long supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and this is a great opportunity to raise funds and awareness while letting Star Wars fans celebrate their favorite saga,” said Kayleen Walters, Sr. Director of Marketing for Lucasfilm.

Giving the event a true fan’s touch, Nerdist Industries’ founder Chris Hardwick and co-hosts will follow the action from the Course of the Force lead vehicle each day, broadcasting live to the Nerdist platform, including its YouTube channel, youtube.com/nerdist. Machinima, the leading next generation video entertainment network for gamers, will produce and simulcast exclusive Course of the Force content through its multi-channel video network and will provide promotion for the event.

As the Course makes its stops along the iconic California coast, Star Wars-themed parties, contests and live Nerdist shows will cap off each day for fans to enjoy. Participants will receive a customized Hasbro Star Wars Ultimate FX lightsaber, along with other gifts celebrating the Force and Comic-Con.

“We aim to build on the excitement leading up to San Diego Comic-Con International, to raise awareness for the wonderful Make-A-Wish Foundation and to ensure that Course of the Force becomes an evergreen part of the pop culture lexicon,” said Nerdist Industries’ principal and Course of the Force creator and executive director Peter Levin. “Partnering with Lucasfilm, Octagon and Machinima creates a trilogy of cachet, profile and execution expertise. As a wise green man might say, ‘succeed we will, for a good cause’.”

Online Registration

Press Release:

HERO INITIATIVE HITS 2012 ORLANDO MEGACON

George Pérez, original covers and top costumers are among the highlights

Los Angeles, CA (February 7, 2012) Hero Initiative, the non-profit organization that aids comic creators in medical and financial need, will be adding to the craziness at the Orlando MegaCon, February 17-19 at the Orange County Convention Center located at 9800 International Drive in Orlando, Fla.

When you purchase your tickets for this amazing weekend, make sure you “Become the Hero!” and make a small donation to our cause. Down at the bottom of the page where it mentions, “Please support the Hero Initiative,” you can add in $1, $5 or $10 as you buy your tickets. Please purchase your tickets at: http://megaconvention.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=57024

When you get to the convention, make sure you get your picture taken with the Hero Initiative costumers just inside the D1 lobby doors. These peeps know their stuff, and they’re some of the top costumers in the nation.

The one and only George Pérez will be at the Hero booth all weekend, located at #531. Make sure to get your sketches and signatures from George here! And while you’re waiting, you’ll have the first chance to see the NEW Fantastic Four #600 original covers, our newest “100 covers” project!

Art lovers will NOT want to miss the FINAL leg of Hero’s original JLA cover auctions! The last 34 covers go up on the block Friday, Feb. 17 at 6:30 PM in Room 240c. Be there!

And to top off your weekend, the Geeks of Comedy are there to tickle your funny bone. Check out their great comedy show Saturday, Feb. 18 at 10 PM in Room 221B&E.

Hero Initiative’s booth schedule, booth #531:

Friday, Feb. 17 (con hours 12-7)
All day: George Pérez
130-230: Nelson DeCastro

300-345: “100 JLA” book signing with Cully Hamner, Dan Jurgens, George Pérez, Mike Perkins, Alex Saviuk, Billy Tucci

Saturday, Feb. 18 (con hours 10-6)

All day: George Pérez

1030-1230: Allen Bellman

1240-130: Tim Sale

130-230: Phil Hester

Sunday, Feb. 19 (con hours 10-5)

All day: George Pérez

1130-1230: Darwyn Cooke

1230-130: Nelson DeCastro

130-230: Phil Hester

About The Hero Initiative

The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strictly to helping comic book artists and craftsmen in need. Hero Initiative creates a financial safety net for yesterday’s creators who may need emergency medical aid, financial support for essentials of life, and an avenue back into paying work. It’s a chance for all of us to give back something to the people who have given us so much enjoyment.

Since its inception, The Hero Initiative has had the good fortune to grant over $500,000 to the comics veterans who have paved the way for those in the industry today. For more information, visit www.heroinitiative.org or call 626-676-6354.

Artist Phil Jimenez signs at Midtown Comics Downtown on Thursday March 8, 2012 from 6-7pm to celebrate the release of of the newest Fables spinoff Fairest. Don’t miss it!

RSVP on Facebook!

Midtown Comics
64 Fulton Street, New York, NY 10038

Press Release:

Celebrate the release of the new Peanuts comic book series Saturday, February 25th at 1pm with how-to-draw Peanuts workshops, a panel discussion, and comic book signing with its creators including Paige Braddock (Jane’s World), Shane Houghton (Reed Gunther), Matt Whitlock (Family Guy), Lex Fajardo (Kid Beowulf), Vicki Scott (Peanuts illustrator), and Justin Thompson (MythTickle). Programs are free with the price of Museum admission. Comic book creators will give an illustrated, behind-the-scenes look at the process and show how new Peanuts stories and artwork are being developed. The presentation will be followed by a comic book signing and workshops on how to draw your own Peanuts characters with artists Matt Whitlock and Vicki Scott.

In January BOOM! Studios and Peanuts Worldwide, LLC kicked off this ongoing comic book series with original stories seen for the first time alongside classic Peanuts Sunday strips. The Peanuts Sunday strips were written and drawn by Charles M. Schulz with additional stories by Vicki Scott, Shane Houghton, and Matt Whitlock.

Charles M. Schulz Museum
2301 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95403

Press Release:

Bill Sienkiewicz and Bernie Wrightson join some of Sci-Fi’s hottest at the DFW SCI-FI EXPO, Feb 11-12

Two comic book legends, Bill Sienkiewicz (ELEKTRA ASSASSIN) and Bernie Wrightson (SWAMP THING), headline the impressive artist lineup at the February 11-12 Sci-Fi Expo.  Produced by the men behind the Dallas Comic Con, this year’s Sci-Fi Expo brings in a wide variety of television and movie actors, along with several comic book luminaries including Joe Jusko and Marvel artist Mark Brooks.  This is Sienkiewicz’s first trip back to the Big D area after previously appearing at the 2009 Dallas Comic Con – his art recently graced the packaging of the new GODZILLA Blu-ray.  Bernie Wrightson has become a favorite guest of the Dallas-based shows, and will be making one of his first major 2012 convention appearances there.  Mark Brooks is making time from his busy Marvel schedule to return to Dallas for the first time in many years as well, and Joe Jusko is coming straight to the show from a big trip to Paris!  Other comic book personalities attending include James O’Barr (creator of THE CROW), Joe Eisma (artist of MORNING GLORIES), Kerry Gammill (former SUPERMAN artist) and Ben Dunn (creator and artist of NINJA HIGH SCHOOL).

Sci-Fi fans will be thrilled to meet the sexy star of BUFFY and DOLLHOUSE, Eliza Dushku, who is attending the show on Saturday only.  FIREFLY and SERENITY fans will be treated to appearances by cast members Adam Baldwin (also Saturday only), Jewel Staite, Sean Maher and Ron Glass. Other media personalities include Alexis Cruz (STARGATE), Noah Hathaway (THE NEVERENDING STORY), Angie Bolling (all three ROBOCOP movies) and James Hampton (TEEN WOLF).  Event Manager Mark Walters notes, “We pride ourselves in putting together conventions that feature something for everyone, and all with a family-friendly atmosphere.  This particular Sci-Fi Expo is our most-ambitious yet, with an incredible mix of talent… we expect the fans will be thrilled.”

General Admission is $15 (discounted tickets for children), with Priority and VIP passes available.  You can find more information on the show, which runs Saturday (11am to 6pm) and Sunday (11am to 4pm) at http://scifiexpo.com

I’m still having trouble getting excited for this movie, but at least this trailer doesn’t make it look like a horror movie. Also, this version seems to get Peter’s snappy patter, and they have the acrobatics down. Still preferred the Raimi version of the costume, though. The movie is set for release on July 3rd and stars Andrew Garfield in the title role.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Robert Kirkman

Press Release:

In 1992, seven of the most popular comic book artists in the world joined forces to create Image Comics, a company specializing in the publication of creator-owned comics and graphic novels. The first wave of Image Comics were an immediate hit with fans, and the company has grown over the past two decades to become one of the largest comics publishers in North America. In addition to publishing work by the Image partners, they give a voice to work by numerous independent creators. Its best-known series include Spawn, Savage Dragon, Witchblade, The Darkness, Invincible and The Walking Dead.

The Cartoon Art Museum’s exhibition Image Comics: A 20th Anniversary Celebration features over 40 pieces of original artwork spanning 20 years, including works from all seven Image founders, Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Jim Lee (WildC.A.T.s), Rob Liefeld (Youngblood), Todd McFarlane (Spawn), Whilce Portacio (Wetworks), Marc Silvestri (Cyberforce), and Jim Valentino (Shadowhawk). Works from Image partner Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead) will also be included in this historic exhibition.

The opening reception for Image Comics: A 20th Anniversary Celebration will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2012 from 7:00-9:00pm. Special guests include Robert Kirkman (Walking Dead, Invincible), Fiona Staples (Saga), Ryan Ottley (Invincible) and many more to be announced, as well as a few last-minute surprises. Please visit the Cartoon Art Museum’s website, cartoonart.org for updates. Admission to this party will be $5-$50, with tickets sold on a sliding scale. This party kicks off the three-day Image Expo which will be held at the Oakland Convention Center from Friday, February 24 through Sunday, February 26. Please visit imagecomicexpo.com for details.

ABOUT IMAGE COMICS
Image Comics is a comic book and graphic novel publisher founded in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Image has since gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. Image currently has five partners: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino. It consists of five major houses: Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, Skybound and Image Central. Image publishes comics and graphic novels in nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable. It offers science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. For more information, visit www.imagecomics.com.

ABOUT IMAGE EXPO
Image Expo is the premier Northern California comics convention in 2012. The three-day event takes place at the Oakland Convention Center February 24, 25 and 26. Celebrating the creative spirit of independence, Image Expo commemorates the twentieth anniversary of the formation of Image Comics. But more than just looking to the past, the event showcases the evolving the comic market by spotlighting the future of independent publishing.

Headline guests include Image Comics Founders & Partners Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri, and Jim Valentino. Special guests for Image Comic Expo include Brian K. Vaughan, Fiona Staples, Blair Butler, Ed Brubaker, Joe Casey, John Layman, Jonathan Hickman, and many more!

Cartoon Art Museum
655 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94105

Press Release:

Mike Carbo’s New York Comic Book Marketplace

Saturday, March 31, 2012, 10AM – 7PM

Early VIP Admission 9AM-10AM

Hotel Pennsylvania, 401 Seventh Avenue, 18^th Floor, NYC

www.NYCBM.com

Just in time to thaw out New York City and welcome Spring, Mike Carbo will be having his Annual One Day Comic Book Show to warm the hearts of all comic loving fans!

The Legendary Stan Lee will be our Guest of Honor! He is the man that helped define and revolutionize the comic book industry. Stan Lee is known for co-creating Spiderman, Hulk, Fantastic Four, X-Men, Thor and many other iconic characters in the comic book world.

Come and meet some of your favorite artists and comic book legends such as Joe Sinnott, Dick Ayers, Jim Steranko, Irwin Hasen, Mark Royer, Arthur Suydam, Bob McLeod, Rich Buckler and many more. Discover up and coming new artists and independent publishers. All of the artists are happy to meet and greet comic book lovers, sign autographs, and many will even draw sketches of their favorite characters. Ethan Philips who portrayed Neelix on Star Trek Voyager will also be in attendance signing autographs and greeting fans.

Over 100 dealer tables will be filled with comics old and new, toys, posters, trading cards, videos, and related pop-culture collectibles. This is an opportunity no true fan should miss!  The Penn Plaza Pavilion is located at 401 Seventh Avenue at 33rd St., in the historic Hotel Pennsylvania.

Bring your children and help introduce a whole new generation to the fun filled, awe inspiring world of comics.

INFORMATION: Contact Mike Carbonaro 201-892-1212mikecarbo@gmail.com

I love the new commercial for the The Avengers movie, which debuted during the Super Bowl. Here are regular and extended versions.

Loki: “I have an army.” Tony Stark: “We have a Hulk.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Greg Rucka signs at TFAW on Wednesday, February 29th, 2012 from 7:00PM – 10:00PM

Press Release:

Things From Another World (TFAW) is proud to announce an action-packed event at its Portland, OR location: Eisner Award-winning writer Greg Rucka will sign his newest book, Punisher HC Vol. 1, February 29 from 7-10 p.m. This is a free, all-ages event with complimentary food and beer (21+ with ID).   For Frank Castle, death comes easy–life is where things get complicated. As New York City’s body counts continue to rise, the city’s streets are teeming with more criminals than ever. The Punisher has returned with everything’s he’s got to serve his own brand of justice . . . but can he survive the darkness stored in his own arsenal?

“We’ve wanted to do an event with Greg Rucka for years,” said TFAW Marketing Manager Elisabeth Forsythe. “His Punisher series offered the perfect opportunity. It’s been a huge hit with our customers, and we’re excited to have him at our store.”   Greg Rucka is one of the most acclaimed creators in comics today, and the writer behind Stumptown, Queen & Country, Batwoman: Elegy, and more. Winner of multiple Eisner Awards, Rucka has also been honored by the Harvey Awards and GLAAD. Don’t miss out on your chance to pick up the first chapter of his epic Punisher series and get it signed February 29!

Things from Another World
4133 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97214