Wizard World Beams Up William Shatner for the New Orleans Comic Con 2012

Press Release:

Big Easy Beam:  William Shatner To Attend 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con

Iconic Star of “Star Trek,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Boston Legal” To Appear Saturday, January 28 At Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

NEW YORK and NEW ORLEANS, December 5, 2011 – William Shatner, who has starred in popular television series and movies for more than five decades, will attend 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, it was announced today.  Shatner, whose most well-known credits include lead roles in “Star Trek,” “T.J. Hooker” and “Boston Legal,” will appear on Saturday, January 28, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Instantly recognizable to several generations of cult TV fans as the square-jawed Capt. James T. Kirk, commander of the starship USS Enterprise, Shatner went on to star in several feature films in the “Star Trek” franchise’s revival in the 1980′s.  He also won two Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of attorney Denny Crane in the television dramas “The Practice” and its spin-off “Boston Legal,” and currently hosts the edgy, off-beat Biography channel original talk show “Shatner’s Raw Nerve.”

“William Shatner is a television and movie icon to the highest degree,” said John Macaluso, Wizard World Board of Directors.  “He has entertained millions of fans over the last half-century, and Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con attendees are ecstatic to have the chance to meet him in person.”

Shatner joins a list of standout guests that includes Adam Baldwin, Mary McDonnell, James Marsters, Michael Biehn, WWE® Diva Kelly Kelly™ and WWE® Superstar Zack Ryder™.  The event, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK) will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

The roster of top artists at Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con is also impressive, including Carlos Pacheco (“X-Men,” “Green Lantern”), George Pérez (“Superman,” “JSA”), Jesus Merino (“Superman,” “Superman/Batman”), Félix Ruiz (“Halo: Fall Of Reach – Boot Camp,” “Marvel Zombies 5), Tyler Kirkham (“Green Lantern: New Guardians,” “Amazing Spider-Man”), Barry Kitson(“Uncanny X-Force,” “Spider-Man”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “X-Force”), Bernie Wrightson (“Batman,” “House of Mystery”), Norm Breyfogle (“Batman Beyond, “Life with Archie”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”) and dozens of others.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests.  Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at scores of dealer booths.

New Orleans Comic Con is the first stop on Wizard World’s 2012 North American tour.  Hours are Saturday, January 28, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, January 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/neworleans.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($30 on site); weekend all-session tickets are $40 ($45 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult).  VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012 DATES *****
January 28-29 – New Orleans Comic Con
April 14-15 – Toronto Comic Con
June 1-3 – Philadelphia Comic Con
August 9-12 – Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
TBD, 2012 – Big Apple Comic Con
TBD, 2012 – Austin Comic Con

FACTS Welcomes Lou Ferrigno, Adi Granov & More

Press Release:

F.A.C.T.S is proud to announce its full line-up, with most recent the addition of “The Incredible Hulk” Lou Ferrigno as well as Adi Granov, comic-artist famous for his involvement in the Iron Man movies!

“We have been trying to get THE HULK to FACTS for years now and finally the stars and planets are perfectly aligned. Lou Ferrigno is a personal hero and whenever I put on a jeans jacket, I think of that amazing TV-series”, said Emmanuel van Melkebeke, F.A.C.T.S. Convention Director, with a disheartening honesty…

Also to have Adi Granov join the guest line-up is a thrill in itself. Adi has played a fundamental role in designing the Iron Man outfit as well as his allies and adversaries in the Iron Man movies. A Marvel exclusive artist with a major impact in both the comic as well as the movie business!

“I adore his covers to Iron Man as much as any normal FACTS-visitor would, but do not forget his Captain America and Thor coverwork as well”, commented to Emmanuel van Melkebeke.

These latest additions might not be the last even, but for now F.A.C.T.S. has a strong line-up!

F.A.C.T.S. actors:
- Charisma Carpenter: Buffy, Angel, Charmed.
- Torri Higginsoon: Tekwar, Stargate Atlantis
- Sherilynn Fenn: Twin Peaks
- Dirk Benedict: Battlestar Galactica, The A-Team
- Julian Glover: Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Game Of Thrones

F.A.C.T.S. artists:
- Keu Cha: Witchblade, Rising Stars, HEX
- Barry Kitson: Spider-Man, Fantastic Four, Legion of Super-Heroes
- Aleksi Briclot: Merlin, Spawn, Wizard of the Coast
- Aleksa Gajic: “Technotise – Edit and I” animation, Scourge Of The Gods
- Clint Langley: Slaine, 2000AD
- Minck Oosterveer: Nicky Saxx, Ruse, The Unknown
- Romano Molenaar: The Darkness, Storm, Lady Death,
- Adrien Floch: Lanfeust of Troy, Ythaq
- Adam Devreux: Game Over
- Lectrr: Belgian cartoonist

F.A.C.T.S Comicon is the signature pop culture event of the Benelux, presenting guests and programming to cater for the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, TV, and gaming industries.

Entering its 21th edition, F.A.C.T.S. is expected to draw over 16,000+ attendees to its October 22-23, 2011 convention held at the Gent Flanders Expo Convention Center located in Gent, Belgium.

The show will sport 12,000 square metres and will host dealers of toys, comics, movie merchandise, fantasy merchandise, manga and will see 400+ cosplayers and an entire fanvillage, as well as loads of surprises, brighten up the already amazing venue!

For more information, please go to http://www.facts.be

Baltimore Comic-Con 2011 Panel Schedule

Press Release:

At last it can be revealed! After months of planning and plotting – here it is. It’s the panel schedule for the 2011 Baltimore Comic-Con! 

Update:  We’ve listened to our fans and the costume contest has been rescheduled. It will now be held at 3:00pm on Saturday. Registration forms can be handed in near table #2403 in the main convention hall. With $1,000 up for grabs for the best overall costume and prizes for each of the 10 categories, this is one event all of you cosplayers don’t want to miss! For more information and a complete list of categories, visit our website’s Costume Contest page.

 

ROOM 301-303 (Saturday)

11:00-12:00 – Creating Your Comic/Manga from Concept to Publication – Husband and wife creators (and Harvey Award Nominees) Comfort Love and Adam Withers teach you how to create your own comic. The entire process – concepting, scripting, thumbnails, pencils, color, PDF’s and CBZ’s, printing, distribution, the web, and even maximizing your convention experience will be covered in this seminar. You will walk away with an understanding of the tools you will need to create and sell your own book.

12:00-1:00 – Spotlight on Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis & Kevin Maguire – Giffen, DeMatteis, and Maguire are the fan-favorite creative team behind Defenders, Metal Men, and Justice League. With stories that blend adventure and humor, their books are like no other. Join the men who put the “Bwah” in “Bwah-ha-ha” as they take a look at their work together.

1:00-2:00 – Spotlight on Charles Vess – The work of award-winning artist Charles Vess can be seen in such books as Sandman, Stardust, Rose, Book of Ballads and Sagas, and many others. Join Charles and moderator Terry Moore as they look at his art, his career, and what he’s working on now.

2:00 – 3:00 – A Conversation with Jeff Smith & Stan Sakai – Jeff Smith’s Bone celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year. Stan Sakai’s Usagi Yojimbo will soon reach its 200th issue. Now, these two talented creators sit down to discuss their work; from their beginnings to future plans. Join Jeff & Stan for what is sure to be a lively and fun look at the world of comics.

3:00-4:00 – Spotlight on the Legion of Super-Heroes – Travel with us to the 31st Century as we take a look at DC’s futuristic super team, The Legion of Super-Heroes! Join creators Keith Giffen, Mike Grell, Mark Waid, Barry Kitson, and Chris Roberson as they talk about the tales they’ve told in the Legion’s long and storied history. Long Live the Legion!

4:00-5:00 – Spotlight on Shannon Wheeler – From stapling 21,000 mini-comics to shooting a comic book to writing an opera to doing cartoons for The New Yorker – Shannon Wheeler has just gotten started in his career in comics. Recently his collection of rejected New Yorker cartoon I THOUGHT YOU WOULD BE FUNNIER won the Eisner Award for Best Humor Publication and is up for a Harvey this weekend. Join Shannon Wheeler and his trusty sidekick BOOM! Studios Marketing Director Chip Mosher as they look back on Shannon’s meteoric rise and fall in comic books. Oh, yeah! Wheeler also created TOO MUCH COFFEE MAN.
ROOM 307 (Saturday)

11:00-12:00 – Visionary Enters the Deadlands – Join Visionary Comics and their all-star roster of creators who launched Deadlands from Image this summer. Join Ron Marz, David Gallaher, Steve Ellis, Jimmy Palmiotti, Lee Moder, and Visionary’s own C. Edward Sellner as they reflect on the weird west revival in comics and Deadlands. Look for exclusive announcements on Deadlands: Year 2.

12:00-1:00 – Top Cow: We Create… – Join Top Cow Publisher Filip Sablik along with Top Cow architect Ron Marz and Echoes writer Joshua Hale Fialkov for a colorful & lively look at the last year of Top Cow releases and what the coming year has in store for Artifacts, Pilot Season, Witchblade, The Darkness, Magdalena and much more! Plus every attendee will receive a FREE gift just for attending!

1:00-2:00 – BOOM! 6th Anniversary panel – Join BOOM! Studios Founder and Chief Executive Officer Ross Richie as he pulls the curtain back on BOOM! Studios. From an upstart one-book-a-month publisher debuting in 2005 to 2011′s powerhouse comic publisher, BOOM! Studios has had one of the most meteoric rises of any comic publisher in the last twenty years. Find out what makes this company tick as Ross reminisces about the early days at BOOM! and its current success. A one-of-a-kind panel for all those that want to know the real story behind the success of BOOM! Studios.

2:00-3:00 – Marvel Universe – Wondering what’s up with the X-Men? Thinking of visiting Spider Island? Curious about the future of Daredevil? Just plain want to know what’s up with the Marvel Universe? Then this is the place for you! Join Marvel Architect Jason Aaron, Mark Waid, Barry Kitson, Paul Tobin, and Tom Raney as they explore the wonders of all things Marvel!

3:00-4:00 – Meet Legendary Comics! – Join Legendary Comics’ Editor-in-Chief, Bob Schreck and Assistant Editor, Greg Tumbarello, for a lively discussion and digital presentation showcasing the company’s exciting upcoming comics releases for 2011 and beyond, including, Frank Miller’s HOLY TERROR, Paul Pope’s PULPHOPE, and Matt Wagner and Simon Bisley’s THE TOWER CHRONICLES. Be prepared with some good questions for the Q&A to follow! If they’re really good, you may win a free Legendary T-shirt!

4:00-5:00 – DC: The New 52 – DC shocked comic fandom when they announced they were relaunching the DC Universe with 52 new #1 titles. Wondering what’s on the way? Want to know more about those books? Join creators Greg Capullo, Scott Snyder, Jimmy Palmiotti, Cully Hamner, David Finch, and Francesco Francavilla as they take a look at DC’s New 52.

 

ROOM 301-303 (Sunday)

11:00-12:00 – Comics Jukebox: All-Ages Comics in the Digital Age – Digital, web, & downloadable comics are a growing trend in the medium, but where do kids comics stand in this arena? Creators John Gallagher and Steve Conley moderate over a panel of experts, including Dan Parent (Archie), Steve Hamaker (Bone, Fish & Chips), Mike Maihack (Cleopatra in Space!), Rich Faber (Roboy Red!) and Todd Dezago (Perhapanauts, Superhero Squad). Those in attendance will get a special card allowing them to download a FREE Exclusive BUZZBOY story from John Gallagher, and one person will win the opportunity to make a cameo appearance in “Leon, Protector of the Playground,” the new all-ages graphic novel by Jamar Nicholas.

Anyone wanting more info can go to the Comic Book Diner All-Ages Pavilion

12:00-1:00 – Spotlight on Ron Frenz – Ron Frenz’s art is well known to fans of Spider-Man, Thor, Spider-Girl (whom he co-created), Superman, and many, many others. We shine the spotlight on Ron in this panel that takes a look at his impressive body of work and where he’s headed in the future.

1:00-2:00 – Going Digital: Day and Date, and what you need to know – With Marvel announcing their same-day-strategy and DC distributing their entire line starting August 31st to provide you with their acclaimed line of comics the same day digitally as they come out in print, you need to make sure you are prepared. With almost everything you want on demand or deliverable to your door, why should your comics be any different? Marvel and DC, with the help of comiXology have created a digital comics experience that puts the power back in your hands to enjoy your favorite comics on demand. Your comics, when you want them, where you want them.

Come join John D. Roberts, Co-founder of comiXology, who will lead our panel as we explore the new digital horizons together.

 

2:00-3:00 – CBLDF: Censorship Then & Now – Earlier this year the Comics Code Authority closed its doors forever, ending an era of self-censorship where comics were stigmatized in the general culture. Though the threats that brought about the Comics Code are the stuff of history books, real threats to comics are still present in the courts in the United States and abroad. CBLDF Executive Director Charles Brownstein delivers a gripping history of comics censorship from the 50s to today, and talks about life after the Code.

3:00-4:00 – Avatar Press: News and Q&A – Here’s your chance to meet the creative minds behind Avatar Press, the industry’s most ground-breaking, risk-taking publisher! Hosted by marketing director, Keith Davidsen, this panel features Mike Wolfer, whose creepy storytelling terrified readers of books like Night of the Living Dead, Lady Death, and War Goddess, and whose visceral illustrations brought to life Garth Ennis’ highly anticipated Stitched comic book series. Find out what new terrors this rogue publisher will unleash in the months ahead, and get your questions answered!

 

ROOM 307-308 (Sunday)

11:00-12:00 – DC Sunday Conversation – All are welcome to join in a relaxed Sunday morning discussion. Share your thoughts, or be enthralled, as the group shares their stories and love for this medium.

12:00-1:00 – Insight Studios – Meet Baltimore’s very own legendary creators of some of comic-dom’s most explosive stories and art with this amazing retrospective – and new announcements of projects! Focusing on Marc Hempel, Robert Tinnell, and Mark Wheatley, get an insider’s perspective on their inner-workings as artists and writers. Moderator, Mike Gold highlights the diversity and originality of these very different creators.

1:00-2:30 – Frank Cho Live Drawing Demonstration – Watch and be amazed as Frank Cho creates a drawing masterpiece right before your eyes. Audience will suggest one character, one action, one setting and Frank Cho will draw it in one hour on stage. The original art created by Frank Cho will be raffled off at the end of the drawing demonstration. Raffle tickets available at Frank Cho’s booth.

2:30 – Stan Lee VIP ticket-holders may queue up for the Stan Lee Spotlight.

2:45 – General public will be admitted to the Stan Lee Spotlight.

3:00-4:00 – Stan Lee Spotlight – Face Front, True Believers! This is a panel no comics fan will want to miss as Jimmy Palmiotti sits down with the one and only Stan “The Man” Lee! He is a Founding Father of the Marvel Universe and the face of Marvel Comics to legions of fans. Join the writer, editor, actor, and legend as he discusses his illustrious career. Excelsior!

 

2010 Baltimore Comic-Con Announces More Publishers and Guests

Press Release:

The 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con Announces More Publishers, Guests!

Baltimore, Maryland – March 19, 2010 – The Baltimore Comic-Con is proud to announce the most recent set of publishers and guests for the 2010 convention. This August, we will welcome Dark Horse Comics, IDW, and Top Shelf Comix to Baltimore, joining already-announced publishers Image Comics, Boom! Studios, and Top Cow Productions.

Additionally, come and meet new and returning guests Tom Brevoort (Executive Editor, Marvel Comics), Bernard Chang (Prince of Persia), Sean Chen (Nova), Mark Chiarello (Editor, DC Comics), Mike Choi (X-Force), Shane Davis (Superman: Earth One), Francesco Francavilla (The Green Hornet: Year One), Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez (Wednesday Comics), Sterling Gates (Supergirl), Bryan J.L. Glass (Mice Templar), Jonathan Hickman (Fantastic Four), Greg Horn (Green Lantern), Adam Hughes (Wonder Woman), Jamal Igle (Supergirl), Georges Jeanty (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Denis Kitchen (Oddly Compelling Art of Denis Kitchen), Barry Kitson (Iron Man 2 Prequel), Greg LaRocque (The Exiled), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Steve Lieber (Underground), Luna Brothers (The Sword), David Mack (Kabuki), Ron Marz (Witchblade), Mike McKone (Avengers Academy), Bob McLeod (New Mutants Forever), Mark Morales (Siege), Chris Moreno (Toy Story), Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), Jeff Parker (Thunderbolts), Lauren Perry (Blank-ees), David Petersen (Mouse Guard), Brandon Peterson (Ultimate Extinction), Chris Pitzer (Publisher, Adhouse Books), Paul Pope (Wednesday Comics), Jack Purcell (Gotham City Sirens), Mike Raicht (The Stuff of Legend), Tom Raney (Black Widow: Deadly Origin), Chris Roberson (I, Zombi), Budd Root (Cavewoman), Don Rosa (Uncle Scrooge), Craig Rousseau (Marvel Her-Oes), Jim Rugg (Afrodisiac), Tim Sale courtesy of Hero Initiative (Captain America White), Ian Sattler (Editor, DC Comics), Stuart Sayger (Bram Stoker’s Death Ship), Bob Schreck (Jurassic Park), Jim Shooter (Magnus, Robot Fighter), Andy Smith (WildC.A.T.S.), John K. Snyder III (The A-Team: Shotgun Wedding), Allison Sohn (Star Wars sketchcard artist), Billy Tan (Shadowland), Ben Templesmith sponsored by Laughing Ogre Comics (Choker), Herb Trimpe (Incredible Hulk), Dexter Vines (Ultimate Avengers), Neil Vokes (Superman Adventures), Matt Wagner (The Green Hornet: Year One), Bernie Wrightson (Swamp Thing), and Chrissie Zullo (Cinderella: From Fabletown With Love).

“Our guest list is really picking up momentum now,” said Marc Nathan, promoter of the Baltimore Comic-Con. “We’re happy to be adding guests from past years and welcoming new ones this year too. We are especially proud to welcome new guests Jose Luis Garcia-Lopez and Jonathan Hickman this year, since we know that they will fit in with our great group of returning guests. If you are a comic book fan, you will want to be in Baltimore in August! Needless to say, we’re thrilled to welcome the Adhouse, Dark Horse, IDW, and Top Shelf crews back, and look forward to hearing what all of their latest and greatest projects will be.”

Guests previously announced include: Mike and Laura Allred (Madman), Sergio Aragones (Groo), Ivan Brandon (Nemesis: The Imposters), Jim Calafiore (Secret Six), Eric Canete (New Avengers: Luke Cage), Howard Chaykin (Black Kiss), Cliff Chiang (Greendale), Frank Cho (Ultimate Comics New Ultimates), Steve Conley (Star Trek Omnibus: The Original Series), Amanda Conner (Power Girl), Dan DiDio (The Outsiders, Co-Publisher, DC Comics), Al Feldstein (MAD Magazine), Ron Garney (Wolverine: Weapon X), Michael Golden (Marvel 1602: Spider-Man), Cully Hamner (Detective Comics), Dean Haspiel (ACT-I-VATE), Geoff Johns (Blackest Night, Chief Creative Officer, DC Comics), J.G. Jones (DC Universe Legacies), Rich Koslowski (BB Wolf and the 3 LPs), Laura Martin (Girl Comics), Todd McFarlane (Spawn), Mark McKenna (Banana Tail), Terry Moore (Echo, SiP), Phil Noto (Avengers: The Origin), Ryan Ottley (Invincible), Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex), Eric Powell (The Goon), James Robinson (Justice League of America), Stephane Roux (Zatanna), Louise Simonson (X-Factor Forever), Walter Simonson (Thor), Jim Starlin (Dreadstar), Brian Stelfreeze (The Authority: The Lost Year), Karl Story (Zatanna), Mark Texeira (X-Men: Origins), Billy Tucci (Shi), Doug Wagner (World of Warcraft: Horde), Mark Waid (Irredeemable, Editor-in-Chief, Boom! Studios), Marv Wolfman (New Teen Titans), and John Workman (Heavy Metal).

In coming weeks, look for more announcements from the Baltimore Comic-Con. We are looking forward to highlighting our guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest developments can always be found at our website (http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/), Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/baltimorecomics), Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/baltimorecomiccon), MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/baltimorecomics), and ComicSpace (http://www.comicspace.com/baltimorecomicon) pages.

This year’s Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, August 28th.

Contact Information
Please use the following e-mail addresses to contact the Baltimore Comic-Con:

press@baltimorecomiccon.com – for any general press inquiries or to be added to our PR distribution
promoter@baltimorecomiccon.com – for requesting exhibitor, publisher, and Artist Alley applications
registrar@baltimorecomiccon.com – for inquiries about submitted registrations
harveys@baltimorecomiccon.com – for communications regarding the Harvey Awards ceremony and banquet
general@baltimorecomiccon.com – for general Baltimore Comic-Con inquiries

About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 11th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 28-29, 2010. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry’s oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 5 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

Mid-Ohio-Con Names Barry Kitson as Special Guest for 2010

Press Release:

Mid-Ohio-Con Names Barry Kitson as Special Guest for 30th Anniversary Show

Columbus, OH – May 10, 2010 – Mid-Ohio-Con is thrilled to announce that artist Barry Kitson will join us as our special guest for Mid-Ohio-Con 2010. Best known for his work on Marvel’s flagship title, The Amazing Spider-Man, Kitson’s first professional work was Spider-Man for Marvel UK and he rapidly developed a fan following based on his art in 2000 AD on the popular Judge Dredd and Judge Anderson strips.

His first work for DC Comics was the Batgirl Special Edition followed long tenures on L.E.G.I.ON. and Azrael. The British sensation went to draw DC’s cornerstone characters Superman and Batman on a regular basis. With Mark Waid he worked on the maxi-series JLA Year One and The Brave & The Bold. In 2004, Kitson helped re-launch Legion of Superheroes for DC and continued on it for two and a half years ending with issue #31.

In 2007, Kitson signed an exclusive contract with Marvel Comics where he has wowed fans with his work on titles including The Order, Secret Invasion: Fantastic Four, and The Amazing Spider-Man. Kitson will be sketching up a storm for fans at Mid-Ohio-Con and may even be working up an exclusive promotional piece for the 30th anniversary show if his schedule allows.

Now entering its 30th year, Mid-Ohio-Con is one of America’s longest-running and most successful comic book and pop culture conventions. Each year, Mid-Ohio-Con brings fans of all ages together with leading comic book writers and artists, film and television creators and stars, as well as publishers and retailers from across the nation. Mid-Ohio-Con 2010 will be held on November 6-7 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. Visit us online at www.midohiocon.com.

Tim Sale Sketches for Charity at Emerald City ComiCon

Hero Initiative Announces Membership Party featuring Tim Sale Three-Minute sketches and ECCC Schedule!

Los Angeles, CA: Hero Initiative will be at the 8th annual Emerald City Comic Con, March 13-14 at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle, Wash. Hero will have a star-studded guest list throughout the weekend, and a membership party at Ruth’s Chris Steak House at the Grand Hyatt Downtown Saturday night featuring artist Tim Sale. All proceeds will benefit Hero Initiative, a non-profit organization helping comic creators in need.

Fans who become new members of Hero Initiative on Saturday at the con will receive tickets to our Member Appreciation party. The party will be held from 10-11 pm at Ruth’s Chris Bar and Grill located at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Existing members, bring your membership cards for entry! At the party Tim Sale will be drawing “Colorful Characters of Marvel,” three-minute sketches at only $20 each, one per customer! There are only 10 slots available, so get to the Hero booth early on Saturday to reserve yours. They are sold on a first come, first served basis.

And the mayor of Seattle has put together a proclamation for the Seattle born-and-bred Tim Sale in recognition of his success in the comic book industry and his dedication in helping Hero Initiative. The presentation will be made at the party, so become a member so you can help celebrate!

“Wow, how cool is this? Even though I live in Los Angeles now, in many ways Seattle will always be my home town, and it’s very thrilling to be honored by the city in this way,” said Sale. “I hope I can be worthy, and that everyone comes to the Emerald City Comic Con and enjoys themselves!”

Hero Initiative booth schedule:

Saturday, March 13:
1000-1130: Phil Hester
1130-100: Barry Kitson + Tim Sale
100-230: Whilce Portacio
230-400: Jeff Parker

Sunday, March 14:
1000-1200: Matt Haley
1200-100: Steve Lieber
100-200: Alan Porter

Hero Initiative Hits the Mid-Ohio-Con

Hero Initiative hits the Mid-Ohio Comic-Con

Become a Hero Initiative Member!

Los Angeles CA. September 30, 2009 – Hero Initiative is proud to be a part of Mid-Ohio-Con in it’s 29th year as one of America’s longest-running and most successful comic book and pop-culture conventions, carrying on a fun and family-oriented tradition of bringing fans, talent and retailers of all ages together! This year’s Mid-Ohio-Con takes place October 3ndand 4th in Columbus Ohio at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Hall E.

The folks at Mid-Ohio-Con have most generously made it possible for a contribution from each ticket sold to go to Hero Initiative directly IF you start on the Hero page when you buy your tickets! Show your support by visiting our website at: www.heroinitiative.org, get your tickets and have a wonderful time!

Hero Initiative is kicking off its fall membership drive at Mid-Ohio-Con, with a fun-filled Membership Party, Saturday, October 3rd from 8pm-11pm at The Big Bar on 2 at the Hyatt Hotel in Downtown Columbus Ohio, connected to the convention center! While you are partying with some of the most amazing talent-including David Mack, Joe Jusko, Herb Trimpe, Mark Texeira, Barry Kitson, Josh Medors and more-you can renew your Hero Initiative membership! 2009 marked the first year ever for Hero Initiative memberships, and for 2010, we’ve revamped with more and better premiums! You can get full information at the party, at the booth, or order today at www.heroinitiative.org or www.heroinitiative.org/2010members. Old Members, remember to bring your membership card to claim a 10% discount!

And if joining the Hero Initiative and contributing to a very worth cause wasn’t enough, Sideshow Collectibles, www.sideshowcollectables.com, has contributed 50 gift cards worth random amounts from $10 to $50 that will be given to the first 50 people who sign-up for Hero Initiative memberships at Mid-Ohio! Get all the insider information and be invited to all the best events. Don’t miss out!

And as always, we at the Hero Initiative love to deliver the best talent lineup around! Come to our booth at Mid-Ohio and see:

Saturday October 3rd
11:00-12:00 Keith Pollard
12:00-1:00 Arvell Jones
1:00-2:00 Steve Scott
2:00-3:00 Todd Nauck
3:00-4:00 Mark Texeira
4:00-5:00 Pat Block

Sunday, October 4th
11:00-12:00 Fred Hembeck
12:00-1:00 Herb Trimpe
1:00-2:00 Darryl Banks
2:00-3:00 Scott Kolins
3:00-4:00 Barry Kitson
4:00-5:00 Michael Golden

About The Hero Initiative
The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strictly to helping comic book creators in need. Hero 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 $400,000 to the comic book veterans who have paved the way for those in the industry today. For more information, visit www.heroinitiative.org or call 626-676-6354.

Baltimore Comic-Con Announces Guests for 2009

Baltimore, Maryland – August 12, 2009 – The Baltimore Comic-Con staff have been busily working on arranging the Harvey Awards, accommodations, promotions, partnerships, exhibitors, and guests, and we’re behind announcing much of it! While there are a number of things still in the development stages, here’s some information we can share now.

Hotel Accommodations
A new feature of our on-line presence this year, the Baltimore Comic-Con is now providing a gateway to hotel accommodations around the Baltimore Convention Center! From our main webpage, click on the “Hotels” link (http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/hotels.htm). This helpful tool enables you to request rooms on-line, compare prices, and review descriptions, amenities, and locations. We encourage those of you traveling from outside of the region to take advantage of this added convenience.

Guests
Last month, we announced a number of today’s top Marvel creators attending the show, including Jason Aaron (Wolverine), Brian Michael Bendis (Avengers), Frank Cho (Ultimates 4), David Finch (Ultimatum), Matt Fraction (Uncanny X-Men), and Barry Kitson (Amazing Spider-Man). We’re bringing in an amazing slate of first-time guests this year for you to meet, including Mike and Laura Allred (Madman), Doug Braithwaite (Wolverine: Origins), Pat Broderick (Vincent Price Presents), Jo Chen (New Avengers: The Reunion), Jimmy Cheung (New Avengers: Illuminati), J.M. DeMatteis (Daredevil), Evan Dorkin (Beasts of Burden), Jan Duursema (Star Wars: Legacy), Sarah Dyer (Superman Adventures), Steve Englehart (Avengers), Bob Fingerman (Recess Pieces), Kathryn Immonen (Runaways), Scott Koblish (Final Crisis: Legion of Three Worlds), Tom Mandrake (The Outsiders), Larry Marder (Beanworld), Laura Martin (Thor), Kevin Nowlan (The Spirit), Whilce Portacio (Spawn), Buddy Prince (Night), Brian Pulido (Lady Death), Ian Sattler (Final Crisis: Aftermath), Marc Silvestri (Witchblade), Peter Tomasi (Blackest Night: Batman), Jim Valentino (Shadowline Comics), Rob Venditti (The Surrogates), Len Wein (Justice League of America), and Brian Wood (sponsored by Laughing Ogre Comics, Northlanders).

You’ll also see many returning guests, such as Dick Ayers (Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos), Jim Calafiore (Batgirl), Nick Cardy (Aquaman), Bernard Chang (Wonder Woman), Sean Chen (Dark Reign: Fantastic Four), Cliff Chiang (Green Arrow & Black Canary), Chris Claremont (X-Men Forever), Steve Conley (Star Trek: Year Four), Amanda Conner (Power Girl), Todd Dezago (Marvel Adventures: Spider-Man), Al Feldstein (Mad), John Gallagher (Buzzboy), Ron Garney (Wolverine: Weapon X), Bryan J.L. Glass (Mice Templar), Jimmy Gownley (Amelia Rules), Cully Hamner (Detective Comics), Tony Harris (Ex Machina), Dean Haspiel (The Alcoholic), Adam Hughes (Power Girl), Stuart Immonen (New Avengers), Georges Jeanty (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), J.G. Jones (Final Crisis), Joe Jusko (Kolchak: Tales of the Night Stalker), Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead), Scott Kurtz (PvP), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Greg LaRocque (Peter Parker: The Spectacular Spider-Man), Steve Lieber (Underground), Luna Brothers (The Sword), David Mack (Kabuki), Ron Marz (Witchblade), Sean McKeever (Teen Titans), Mark McKenna (BananaTail), Mike McKone (Amazing Spider-Man), Bob McLeod (New Mutants), Carla Speed McNeil (Finder), Mark Morales (Secret Invasion), Doug Murray (Jungle Girl Season 2), Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), Phil Noto (Batgirl), Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex), Jeff Parker (Agents of ATLAS), Dan Parsons (Star Wars: The Clone Wars), David Petersen (Mouse Guard), Brandon Peterson (Ultimate Comics Armor Wars), Eric Powell (The Goon), Tom Raney (Dark Reign: Hawkeye), Alex Robinson (Too Cool to be Forgotten), James Robinson (Superman), Budd Root (Cavewoman), Don Rosa (Uncle Scrooge), Craig Rousseau (Iron Man & The Armor Wars), Stephane Roux (Amazing Spider-Man), Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo), Tim Sale (Heroes), Scott Christian Sava (Dreamland Chronicles), Walt Simonson (Thor), Andy Smith (Dean Koontz’s Nevermore), Jim Starlin (Strange Adventures), Brian Stelfreeze (Final Crisis Aftermath: Ink), Karl Story (Batman: Streets of Gotham), Herb Trimpe (Hulk), Billy Tucci (Sgt. Rock: The Lost Battalion), Dexter Vines (Wolverine), Neil Vokes (The Black Forest), Doug Wagner (The Ride), Matt Wagner (Grendel), Mark Waid (The Incredibles), and Bernie Wrightson (Swamp Thing).

Guest of Honor
We’re proud and ecstatic to announce that our tenth anniversary headliner is George Perez (Final Crisis: Legion of Three Worlds)! George was one of our guests in our first year, and has returned numerous times over the past 10 years. In addition to headlining the show, George will be providing the artwork for our program in 2009!

“What an incredible line-up we’ve arranged for our 10th anniversary show,” said Marc Nathan, promoter of the Baltimore Comic-Con. “We have been chugging along, building the guest list, working with the city of Baltimore on the hotel program, coordinating the Harvey Awards, and a million other little things involved with getting things ready for October.”

In coming weeks, look for ongoing announcements from the Baltimore Comic-Con. We are looking forward to highlighting added guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest developments can always be found at our website, Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, and ComicSpace pages.

This year’s Baltimore Comic-Con will be held October 10-11, 2009. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, October 10th.

As we continue to get ready for this year’s show, we would like to remind you to mark your calendar for next year’s Baltimore Comic-Con dates: August 28-29, 2010.

About The Baltimore Comic-Con

The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 10th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held Oct 10-11, 2009. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry’s oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 4 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

Mid-Ohio-Con Announces Media Guests for October Show

Mid-Ohio-Con Announces Media Guests for October 3-4, 2009 Show

James Kyson Lee (Heroes) and Ray Park (Star Wars, G.I. Joe) will Headline Mid-0hio-Con 2009 as Special Media Guests

Lee and Park Join an Outstanding Roster of Comic Creators as Guests at the 29th Annual Mid-Ohio-Con

Registration is Now Open for Exhibitor Booths, Indie Publisher Booths and Tables in Creators’ Common

July 29, 2009 – Columbus, Ohio

Mid-Ohio-Con today announced that Ray Park and James Kyson Lee will headline Mid-Ohio-Con 2009 as special media guests. Park is best known as Darth Maul from Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace and he will star in G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra opening on August 7th. James Kyson Lee is best known for his starring role as Ando Masahashi in Heroes, which will return to NBC for its 4th season this fall.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have these two superstars on board for our 2009 show,” said James Henry, Managing Director of Mid-Ohio-Con. “Mid-Ohio-Con 2008 was acclaimed as one of the best events in Mid-Ohio-Con’s long history and we’re going to recreate last year’s magic with a who’s who of the leading names from the worlds of comic books, gaming, film, and television at this year’s show.”

The fast-growing guest list for 2009 also features guests of honor Bernie Wrightson and Michael Golden along with Art Baltazar, Jacob Chabot, Ron Frenz, Gary Friedrich, Bryan J.L. Glass, Fred Hembeck, Tony Isabella, Joe Jusko, Barry Kitson, Scott Kolins, David Mack, Sean McKeever, Todd Nauck, Josef Rubinstein, Steve Scott, Chris Sprouse, Mark Sumerak, Mark Texeira, Herb Trimpe, Renee Witterstaetter, Marv Wolfman and many more.

Registration is now open for Exhibitor Booths, Indie Publisher Booths, and Creators’ Common Tables. The show floor in Exhibition Hall E at the Greater Columbus Convention Center will accommodate nearly 200 Exhibitor Booths for retailers, publishers, manufacturers, and service providers, and 100 Creators’ Common tables for artists, writers, actors, and other guests.

Please visit the new Mid-Ohio-Con web site at midohiocon.com for further information and regular updates on Mid-Ohio-Con 2009. The new site is the primary source for all things related to this year’s Mid-Ohio-Con, including details on featured guests, registration forms, and information about show dates, venue, and other key areas of interest for attendees, exhibitors, and guests.

About Mid-Ohio-Con

Now entering its 29th year, Mid-Ohio-Con is one of America’s longest-running and most successful pop culture conventions. Each year, Mid-Ohio-Con brings fans of all ages together with leading comic book writers and artists, film and television creators and stars, as well as publishers and retailers from across the nation. Mid-Ohio-Con 2009 will be held on October 3-4 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. Mid-Ohio-Con can be found online at midohiocon.com as well as on Facebook, MySpace and Twitter.

Marvel Creators Headed to Baltimore Comic-Con

Press Release:

MARVEL COMICS CREATORS COME TO BALTIMORE 2009!
2010 Dates Announced!

BALTIMORE, MD (May. 26, 2009) — The Baltimore Comic-Con is proud to announce that top creators of today’s Marvel Universe will find themselves in Baltimore this October 10th and 11th as guests of the Baltimore Comic-Con. Jason Aaron (Wolverine), Brian Michael Bendis (Avengers), Frank Cho (Ultimates 4), David Finch (Ultimatum), Matt Fraction (Uncanny X-Men), and Barry Kitson (Amazing Spider-Man) will all convene to help celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Baltimore Comic-Con.

“This modern day Marvel bullpen, the writers and artists of today’s Marvel Comics, will really help to make this year a great show. This will be the first time that Jason Aaron and Matt Fraction have joined us, and a great second year for Brian Michael Bendis. Brian made a special effort to speak with all of his fans last year, and was a guest that many of our fans requested come back,” said Marc Nathan, promoter of the Baltimore Comic-Con. “We missed David Finch in 2008 due to the birth of his lovely daughter, and it is great to have him back. And of course, we are thrilled to welcome perennial fan favorites Frank Cho and Barry Kitson back to the halls of the Baltimore Convention Center.”

As we continue to get ready for the show on October 10-11, 2009, we would also like to announce the Baltimore Comic-Con’s 2010 dates: August 27-28, 2010. “We have spent 10 years putting on great comic book-centric shows, and I am proud to start on a second great decade. The fans come to our shows to meet and greet with their favorite artists and writers, and we plan to continue that tradition well into the future,” remarked Nathan. “While it may be early for some, we want our partners, guests, exhibitors, and fans to know our plans so that they join us in 2010.”

In coming weeks, look for more announcements from the Baltimore Comic-Con. We are looking forward to highlighting our guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest developments can always be found at our website, Facebook, MySpace, and ComicSpace pages.

This year’s Baltimore Comic-Con will be held October 10-11, 2009. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, October 10th.

About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 10th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held Oct 10-11, 2009. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry’s oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 4 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org

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