Disney Interactive to Introduce Epic Mickey 2 Game and Graphic Novel at SDCC 2012 with Marv Wolfman and Peter David

Press Release:

Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two Arrives in San Diego for Comic-Con International 2012

Video Game Designer Warren Spector, Graphic Novelist Peter David, Comic Book Writer Marv Wolfman, and Becky Cline, Director of The Walt Disney Archives, Participate in Panel Featuring the Highly Anticipated Video Game

All-New Opening Movie for Disney Epic Mickey 2 Titled “A Story Begins” Debuts at www.youtu.be/TEihtaHLInk

BURBANK, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Disney Interactive today announced that the highly-anticipated “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” video game will be featured in a panel at the Comic-Con International 2012 show in San Diego on Sunday, July 15^th. In addition, Disney Interactive’s Junction Point has released the never-before-seen opening movie for the game titled “A Story Begins” at www.youtu.be/TEihtaHLInk.

“Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” will be presented in a panel discussion taking place on Sunday, July 15^th at 1:00 p.m. at the San Diego Convention Center, Room 25ABC. Participating in the panel are video game designer Warren Spector of Disney Interactive’s Junction Point, Peter David, award-winning comic writer and author of the upcoming “Disney Epic Mickey 2 Graphic Novel” and Marv Wolfman, award-winning American comic book writer and co-writer of “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two.” The panelists will discuss how the team mapped out the story for this innovative new video game and unveil the first details surrounding the graphic novel, a 48 page retelling of Mickey’s return to Wasteland that will extend the video game experience for readers. Additionally, Becky Cline, Director of The Walt Disney Archives will be on hand to discuss the historical significance of Walt Disney’s first cartoon star, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, who is prominently featured in the video game. The panel will reveal all-new gameplay footage and artwork, and a special never-before-seen sequence of pages from the upcoming graphic novel.

“The story in ‘Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two’ will immerse players in an even deeper and richer gameplay experience than before as they take on the roles of Mickey Mouse and Oswald to befriend and battle their way through the world of Wasteland on a brand new journey of creativity and discovery,” said Warren Spector, creative director and vice president, Junction Point. “We’re honored to have collaborated with such talented individuals as Marv Wolfman, Peter David and Becky Cline on Mickey and Oswald’s next adventure, and we look forward to offering Comic-Con attendees a behind-scenes-look at the game and graphic novel.”

Written by Peter David and illustrated by Fabrizio Petrossi, the “Disney Epic Mickey 2: Graphic Novel” is a 48 page retelling of Mickey Mouse’s return to Wasteland to help Oswald the Lucky Rabbit as he faces the Mad Doctor. The graphic novel extends the videogame experience for readers and will include exclusive footage, a backstage pass, and more.

The “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” video game returns Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to Wasteland, an alternate world filled with more than 80 years of forgotten Disney characters and theme park attractions. But for the first time, Mickey and Oswald will join forces as true partners – Mickey with the magical paint brush that allows him to wield paint and thinner, and Oswald with a powerful remote control that allows him to command electricity. This new co-op play further enhances the idea that “PlayStyle Matters” – a unique approach to gameplay pioneered by Warren Spector where players tackle challenges the way they want to in order to explore a variety of possibilities and storylines, but always with consequences for their chosen actions.

Development for “Disney Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two” for the Wii™ system from Nintendo, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system is being led by Disney Interactive’s Junction Point. Supporting the latest technology, the game will also feature full support for the PlayStation®Move motion controller. “Disney Epic Mickey: Power of Illusion” for the Nintendo 3DS™ hand-held system is under development by critically-acclaimed developer DreamRift, in collaboration with Junction Point. The games are currently unrated by the ESRB. For more information, go to www.disney.com/disneyepicmickey.

Disney Interactive

Disney Interactive, one of the world’s largest creators of high-quality interactive entertainment across all platforms, is the part of The Walt Disney Company responsible for the global creation and delivery of interactive entertainment, multi-platform video games, and family-focused content across all current and emerging digital media platforms. Disney Interactive produces and distributes a broad portfolio of content from Disney Interactive Games and Disney Interactive Media. Products and content released and operated by Disney Interactive include blockbuster mobile, social and console games, online virtual worlds, #1 kid’s entertainment destination Disney.com and the #1 Family/Parenting portfolio on the Web.

Disney Interactive is the interactive entertainment part of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS).

About Junction Point

Junction Point is Disney Interactive’s Austin, Texas-based developer of console games with a focus on games where “playstyle matters.” Junction Point games offer strong, player-driven narratives, opportunities for problem-solving rather than puzzles, and choices with significant consequences. The studio’s goal is to tell stories with players, not to them, allowing each player to craft his or her own, unique experiences. Junction Point was founded in 2005 and joined Disney Interactive in July 2007. For more information on the studio, go towww.junctionpoint.com.

About Disney Publishing Worldwide

Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books and magazines with over 700 million products sold each year. Disney Publishing Worldwide consists of an extensive worldwide licensing structure as well as vertically integrated publishing imprints including Disney Book Group in the U.S., Disney Libri in Italy and Disney Libros in Spain. DPW publishes a range of children’s magazines globally, including Topolino, Le Journal de Mickey, and Donald Duck, as well as Disney kids magazines in the U.S. which include Disney Princess and Phineas and Ferb. Disney English is DPW’s English language learning business which includes Disney English learning centers in China and a worldwide retail licensing program. DPW’s digital products include bestselling eBook titles as well as original apps. Headquartered in Glendale, CA, Disney Publishing Worldwide publishes books, magazines, and digital products in 85 countries in 75 languages. For more information visit www.disneypublishing.com.

DC Provides Some Details About Their WonderCon 2012 Plans

DC Entertainment will be attending WonderCon this weekend, at Booth #501, and has provided a short list of attending guests:

Sergio Aragones, Brian Buccellato, Mike Choi, Shane Davis, Alex Garner, Mick Gray, Viktor Kalvachev, Jim Lee, Dustin Nguyen, Norm Rapmund, Scott Snyder, Ryan Snook (Friday and Saturday only), J. Michael Straczynski, Len Wein, Scott Williams, Marv Wolfman and many more.

They also promise details on BEFORE WATCHMEN, DC COMICS-THE NEW 52, the DC Nation animation block and Vertigo.

 

 

Hero Initiative Schedule for WonderCon 2012

Press Release:

Hero Initiative, the non-profit organization that aids comic creators in medical and financial need, attends WonderCon on March 16-18, 2012 at the Anaheim Convention center located at 800 West Katella in Anaheim, California. Joining us will be Dawn creator Joseph Michael Linsner. Joe will be at the Hero Initiative booth, #204, all weekend.

Joe will have books and original art on hand and will be doing sketches, so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity! “Hero is a fantastic organization that does so much good for the comics community that I feel honored to be able to help out in any way I can,” said Linsner. “The heroic folks at Hero really live up to their name. All they need are capes—they already have super-powers.”

Marv Wolfman, Christian Gossett, Mark Waid, Mike McKone, and Scott Koblish will also be stopping by for signings and sketches throughout the weekend. Check details below:

Additional schedule:

Friday, March 16 (con hours 12-7)

3:00-4:00: Marv Wolfman

 

Saturday, March 17 (con hours 10-7)

10:30-12:30: Christian Gossett

2:30-3:30: Mark Waid

4:30-5:30: Mike McKone

 

Sunday, March 18 (con hours 11-5)

1:00-2:30: Scott Koblish

 

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.

WonderCon 2012 Guest List Adds Jim Lee, Mark Waid, Art Adams, Etc.

Press Release:

WonderCon Guest List Continues to Grow

Southern California comics convention attracts wide array of talented guests

Anaheim, CA – WonderCon, part of Comic-Con International’s (CCI) family of nonprofit comics conventions, today announced another talented group of special guests, adding to its already impressive line-up. The newly announced guests include award-winning writers and artists from the world of comics as well as screenwriters and novelists. Fan favorite and DC Comics co-publisher Jim Lee appears on the list of additions, as well as award-winning comics scribes Mark Waid (Kingdom Come, Irredeemable, Daredevil) and Marv Wolfman (New Teen Titans, Tomb of Dracula).

Attracting 49,000 people in 2011, WonderCon has been an annual event in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1987. Because of renovations at its usual venue, WonderCon will relocate to Southern California for 2012. The three-day celebration of comics and popular art forms will be held in the spacious Anaheim Convention Center March 16-18, 2012, allowing many Southern California fans who might otherwise not make the trip to San Francisco to experience the wildly popular show.

Among the other recently added special guests are Arthur Adams (artist, Monkeyman and O’Brian, Ultimate Comics: X), Ernest Cline (author/screenwriter, Fanboys, Ready Player One), Joe Hill (author, Locke and Key, Heart-Shaped Box), Richard Kadrey (author, Sandman Slim, Kill the Dead), and Richard Starkings (writer/letterer/designer, Elephantmen). For a complete list of special guests and bios, visit http://www.comic-con.org/wc/wc_guests.php.

Because WonderCon is produced by the same organization that hold the annual Comic-Con in San Diego and because of its similar format—sprawling exhibit floor, numerous educational panels, exciting Hollywood appearances, and an extraordinary slate of special guests—some fans are calling the new version of WonderCon “Anaheim Comic-Con.”

“We are hoping Southern California fans will embrace WonderCon for 2012,” said David Glanzer, director of marketing and public relations for parent company Comic-Con International. “And by all indications that may be the case, as online registration opened only a few days ago to an unprecedented start!” Badges for the popular convention went on sale last week and are available for purchase at http://www.comic-con.org/wc/wc_reg.shtml.

About WonderCon:

WonderCon, one of the country’s best comics and popular arts conventions, is part of Comic-Con International (CCI), a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to creating awareness of, and appreciation for, comics and related popular art forms. The organization achieves its mission primarily through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of comics to art and culture. In addition to WonderCon in Anaheim this spring, CCI organizes San Diego Comic-Con each summer (the world’s largest comics convention of its kind) and San Francisco’s Alternative Press Expo (APE) each fall. On the web: WonderCon.org, Facebook.com/comiccon,Twitter.com/wondercon

Wizard World Austin Comic Con 2011 Programming Announced

Press Release:

Adam Baldwin, Hayden Panettiere Q&A’s, ‘Willy Wonka,’ ‘Star Wars,’ ‘The Walking Dead’ Panels, ‘Buffyfests’ Highlight Wizard World Austin Comic Con Programming

Special Kid-friendly Panels, ‘Wizard Art School’ Featuring Top Creators, Adult and Kids Costume Contests, Evening Activities at Austin Convention Center Nov. 11-13

NEW YORK and Austin, Texas, November 1, 2011 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring unique celebrity Q&A’s, music, film screenings and discussions, artist schools, contests and more for the event, set for Friday through Sunday, Nov. 11-13 at the Austin Convention Center.  Sessions featuring Adam Baldwin, Hayden Panettiere and notables from such popular TV programs and films as STAR WARS, “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “The Walking Dead,” and WILLY WONKA & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY are among the highlight attractions.

Some of the top sessions include:

• Rare Q&A sessions with Adam Baldwin (FULL METAL JACKET, SERENITY) and Hayden Panettiere (“Heroes,” BRING IT ON)
• “Buffyfests” with “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer” stars James Marsters, Charisma Carpenter,   Mercedes McNab, James Charles Leary and Juliet Landau
• STAR WARS Q&A with Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew and Daniel Logan
• Young stars Chandler Riggs and Anthony Guajardo of the hit AMC series “The Walking Dead”
• A WILLY WONKA panel featuring four of the five child stars of the original 1971 classic film
• “Stargate Universe” Q&A with the beautiful tandem of Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson
• “Kids’ Day” program with face painting, balloons, other fun activities specially designed for children, including a reading of “My Favorite Giant,” the latest children’s book by Peter Mayhew, best known as STAR WARS’ “Chewbacca”, and a “Fairy Godmother Academy” storytelling session by Jan Bozarth
• Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading creators like Michael Golden, Marv Wolfman, Kody Chamberlain, Rob Guillory, Jo Chen, Greg Capullo, Yanick Paquette and others
• Wizard World Austin Drink And Draw, hosted by artist Tommy Castillo, during which some will drink…some will draw…and the best will take on the challenge of doing both
• The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes

Unless noted, Austin Comic Con programming will take place in the designated panel rooms at the Austin Convention Center, and is included with admission to the event.  Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.

The full schedule is at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/programming-tx.html and below:

Friday 11/11

5:00–5:45PM
Con Costuming with the 501st
The 501st costuming group shares their tips, skills and ideas on how to build and improve your comic con costumes. Whether you’re a Jedi, Rebel Pilot, Trooper or Princess, they will share their knowledge on how to make sure your costume is the best. (Room A)

6:00–6:45PM
The Art af Chew and Sweets with Kody Chamberlain and Rob Guillory
Rob Guillory (Chew) and Kody Chamberlain (Sweets) team up to discuss their breakout Image hits, and how they’ve transformed their love of art and storytelling to their Chew and Sweets brands. (Room A)

7:00 – 7:45PM
Steampunk 101
Take a look into the Steampunk armory with the Steam Engine Intrepid and The Airship Isabella groups, as they give you a tour of the exciting world of prop weapons! (Room A)

9:00–11:00PM
Wizard World Austin Drink and Draw – Hosted by Tommy Castillo
Some will drink…some will draw…and the best will take on the challenge of doing both! Don’t miss your chance to hang out with some of your favorite artists at the official Wizard World Drink and Draw, hosted by Tommy Castillo! (Location TBD)

Saturday 11/12

11:00-11:45AM
Star Wars Q&A with Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew and Daniel Logan
The stars behind Anakin Skywalker (Lloyd), Chewbacca (Mayhew) and Boba Fett (Logan) take fan questions and discuss their thoughts on the evolution of one of the highest grossing film franchises in history. (Room A)

Storytelling with Michael Golden
Whether you’re a writer, artist, or just a comic lover, come for this sit-down with one of the most renowned storytellers in the business as he shares a few tricks of the trade that will help you no matter what type of story you tell or enjoy, in whatever medium. It’s a rare opportunity to talk with the co-creator of X-Men Rogue, and groundbreaking penciler on such projects as Bucky O’Hare, The ’Nam, Micronauts, G.I. Joe, and much more! (Room B)

12:00-12:45PM
Walking Dead Q&A with Chandler Riggs and Anthony Guajardo
AMC’s ambitious horror series based on Robert Kirkman’s ultra-hot zombie series from Image, now comes to life! Join the cast members Chandler Riggs and Anthony Guajardo for a Q&A, followed by behind-the-scenes footage and extended clips. (Room A)

Wizard Spotlight: Marv Wolfman
As the legendary writer behind some of your favorite characters that have been adapted into TV shows, movies and animations, Marv Wolfman discusses some of his comic creations that have been adapted to the big and small screens in movies like Blade and Daredevil, or in shows such as “Teen Titans” and “Smallville.” (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Buffyfest Q&A with Charisma Carpenter, Mercedes McNab and James Charles Leary
The forces of good and evil reunite when the stars behind Cordelia Chase (Carpenter), Harmony (McNab) and Clem (Leary) sit down to discuss their days as the characters on the hit TV show “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” (Room A)

Breaking Into Comics with Jo Chen, Greg Capullo and Yanick Paquette
Fan favorites Jo Chen (Superman; Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Gregg Capullo (Batman; Thor ) and Yanick Paquette (Batman; Superman ) team up to give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to publishers, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics. (Room B)

2:00-2:45PM
Wonka Kids Reunion
The five child stars from the original Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory reunite 40 years after the release of the classic 1971 film. Panelists include Peter Ostrum (“Charlie Bucket”), Paris Themmen (“Mike Tee Vee”), Julie Dawn Cole (“Veruca Salt”), Denise Nickerson (“Violet Beauregard”). (Room A)

Are you Smarter than a Ghostubuster?
Do you have what it takes to be a Ghostbuster? Go head-to-head against the Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin Ghostbusters groups, and find out if you’re really smarter than a Ghostbuster. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
Buffyfest Q&A with James Marsters and Juliet Landau
James Marsters and Juliet Landau reunite to discuss their days as the cold-blooded couple Spike and Drusilla on the hit shows “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Angel,” and dish about what went on behind-the-scenes of the pop-culture phenomenons. (Room A)

Wizard Writing School with Matthew Sturges and Nathan Edmondson
Join bestselling authors Matthew Sturges (Jack of All Fables; JSA All-Stars) and Nathan Edmondson (Who is Jake Ellis; PopGun) for this panel on writing and editing for comics. (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM
Adam Baldwin Q&A
With roles on sci-fi classics such as Serenity, “Firefly,” “The X-Files” and “Angel,” Adam Baldwin’s extensive résumé speaks for itself. Don’t miss his Wizard World Austin debut, where he will sit down to answer fan questions and share his favorite moments from the shows we’ve all come to love. (Room A)

Con Costuming With The Steampunks
Enter the world of Steampunk fashion. Let the seamstresses of the Airship Isabella and the great Steam Engine Intrepid show you the tricks and short cuts to achieve the look you want. From modifying clothing to creating your own, they will give you step-by-step instruction on everything costuming – including corset construction, bustling and distressing fabrics. (Room B)

5:00-5:45PM
Hayden Panettiere Q&A
Known for her role as Claire Bennett on the supernatural show “Heroes,” and from dozens of other film and TV credits, including Remember the Titans, Scream 4 and I Love You Beth Cooper! , Hayden Panettiere dishes about her rise from child star to one the Hollywood’s sweethearts. (Room A)

South by Southwest Programming
The hugely popular South By Southwest (SXSW) festivals preview some of the exciting programming at their 2012 shows (Room A)

6:00-6:45PM
The Making of ZELLWOOD: An Independent Horror Film
Don’t miss this special behind-the-scenes look at the independent horror film ZELLWOOD. A panel with the minds behind the film will follow, featuring Jason Sutton (writer/director/producer), Amber Norell (producer), Julie Anne Prescott (actress), Bruster Sampson (actor) and Kristin Diaz (hair/makeup), as they discuss the making of the low budget film that was shot in only 12 days!
Note: Trailer includes violence, recommended for mature audiences. (Room A)

7:00-9:00PM
Adult Costume Contest
Get your best costume together and come on down to Wizard World’s Austin Comic Con costume contest for fun prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend. (Room A)

Sunday 11/13

11:00-11:30AM
Crashbat: A Reading By Brimstone
Kids (ages 5-9) will enjoy a reading of the new Border-Pups book CrashBat. The story will be read by comic book creator William “Brimstone” Kucmierowski. Brim will follow the reading of the book with a game of “Brim Says,” and three lucky winners will get a free, signed copy of the book! . (Room A)

The Ladies Of Wrestling
Maria, Melina and Candice Michelle answer your questions about what it takes to hit the mat become a dashing Diva in the world of professional wrestling. (Room B)

11:30AM-12:00PM
Draw Your Own Comic Characters with Andy and Veronica Fish
Kids (ages 11-17) get into the action and learn how to “Draw a Comic Character” at this one-of-a kind workshop with graphic novel artists and writing team Andy & Veronica Fish. (Room A)

12:00-12:45PM
How To Draw Mickey Mouse
Powerhouse Animation Studios hosts this special instructional panel for kids aged 6-14, to teach you how to draw America’s favorite Disney character – Mickey Mouse! (Room A)

Stargate Universe Q&A with Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson
Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson take to the stage to spill on their days as the leading ladies Tamara Johansen and Vanessa James from the wildly popular sci-fi series “Stargate Universe.” (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Breaking Into Comics with Patrick Gleason, Kevin Maguire and Freddie Williams
Patrick Gleason (Batman & Robin; Green Lantern Corps), Kevin Maguire (Justice League; Batman Confidential) and Freddie Williams (JSA All-Stars; Batman) give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to publishers, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics. (Room B)

1:00-2:00PM
Kid’s Costume Contest
Bring kids 10 and under for this special event with fun prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room A)

2:00-2:45PM
My Little Giant Reading with Peter Mayhew
Peter Mayhew- the 7’3″ actor that brought Chewbacca to life- now brings you his latest children’s book My Favorite Giant, intended to help little ones understand that being different doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Join Peter and his wife/co-author Mary Mayhew, for their special reading and book signing. (Room A)

Doctor Who: From Totter’s Lane to Demon’s Run – Adventures In Time, In Space
Doctor Who is the longest running science fiction series in the world. Travel by TARDIS and explore this phenomenon with fans of both the classic and new series. It’s a panel about everything Doctor Who! (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
The Fairy Godmother Academy
Jan Bozarth is the author of the popular Fairy Godmother Academy series published by Random House. Join Jan as she weaves tales of the enchanting and magical world of Aventurine using gorgeous props and costumes inspired by the books. (Room A)

Austin Comic Con is the ninth and final stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour.  Hours are Friday, November 11, 4 – 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 12, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, November 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/austin.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); weekend all-session tickets are $45 ($55 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.wizardworldcomiccon.com.

***** SAVE THE 2011/12 DATES *****
November 11-13 – Austin Comic Con
January 28-29, 2012 – New Orleans Comic Con
April 14-15, 2012 – Toronto Comic Con
June 1-3, 2012 – Philadelphia Comic Con
August 9-12, 2012 – Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30, 2012 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
TBD, 2012 – Big Apple Comic Con

Hero Initiative Attending Long Beach Comic and Horror Con 2011 with Darwyn Cooke and John Carpenter

Hero Initiative And Eisner Award-winning Darwyn Cooke At Long Beach Comic and Horror Con!

World Premiere Release of Parker: The Martini Edition

And signatures by film writer/director John Carpenter

Los Angeles, CA (October 24, 2011) Hero Initiative, the non-profit organization that helps comic creators in financial and medical need, is proud to announce its attendance at Long Beach Comic and Horror Con, October 29^th and 30^th at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, California. Hero will be hosting Eisner Award-winning writer/artist Darwyn Cooke, best known for his work on comics such as Catwoman, DC: The New Frontier, The Spirit and Richard Stark’s Parker.

And IDW Publishing’s Parker: The Martini Edition will be making its world premiere at the convention as well! This will be your first chance EVER to pick up a copy, and get it signed by the master himself! In addition, Hero Initiative will have Darwyn Cooke con-exclusive merchandise so make sure you make it to our booth, #213, and be a Hero by supporting our great cause!

And that’s not all! Legendary moviemaker John Carpenter, known for Halloween, Escape from New York, and They Live, will be doing his ONLY signing of the convention for Hero Initiative as well! John has generously agreed to autograph 250 items only. Signature vouchers will be available at the Hero Initiative booth Saturday morning, limit ONE per person, at $5 each. John will then sign at booth #913 at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. Don’t miss out!

And if you like free stuff, well…you can get a FREE Ultimate Spider-Man #100 Project softcover or Transmetropolitan: All Around the World hardcover if you sign up your Ralphs Rewards card for Hero at our booth, OR drop off your old printer cartridges, cell phones or small electronics for us to redeem with Funding Factory. Please note you MUST bring your Ralphs Rewards card with you—we cannot sign you up with your phone number alone!

To find out more about Hero Initiative, check out our YouTube videos, including our most recent video featuring creators we’ve helped with support from people like you!

http://www.youtube.com/user/heroinitiative

 

Hero Initiative’s booth schedule (booth #213):

SAT., Oct. 29 (con hours 10-7)

1030-1130: Gerry Conway

1030-1230: Jon Bogdanove

1100-100: Darwyn Cooke

130-230: Marv Wolfman

230-330: Mark Waid

 

SUN., Oct. 30 (con hours 10-5)

1030-1130: Albert Morales

1130-1230: Darwyn Cooke

1230-230: Mike McKone

230-430: Darwyn Cooke

 

About The Hero Initiative:

The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strict 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 $500,000 to the comic book veterans who have paved the way for those in the industry today. For more information, visitwww.heroinitiative.org or call 626-676-6354.

CA – Teen Titans: Games Signing

Marv Wolfman signs at Comics Unlimited on Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 from 5:00PM – 7:00PM!

RSVP on Facebook!

Press Release:

We’re honored to have a comic legend such as Marv Wolfman here signing his new hardcover graphic novel, New Teen Titans: GAMES (illustrated beautifully by none other than George Perez!)

Marv has been in the comics industry since the 60s so you’ve surely got some of his work–plus he’s created some key characters and stories for both Marvel and DC, and you know what? Along with signing the new Titans book, he’ll be happy to sign a favorite issue from your collection, too!

We’re taking pre-orders for the book signing, drop by or give us a call at (714) 841-6646.

September 21st is a new comic day, too, so we’ll be really excited to see you there showing your fandom support!

Comics Unlimited
16344 Beach Blvd, Westminster, CA 92683

CA – DCU Signing

 

Marv Wolfman, Rob Liefeld, Sterling Gates, and JT Krul sign on Wednesday, September 21 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm.

RSVP on Facebook!

Press Release:

On Wednesday September 21st, Collector’s Paradise Comics & Gallery would love to invite you to our beautiful new Pasadena store, for a signing of all signings, to commemorate release of several new exciting titles from the DC NEW 52 Relaunch and the TEEN TITANS GAMES HC. From 6pm to 8pm, we are proud to host four FANTASTIC Creators and great friends of the stores, and showcase their new books for all of you who can make it to t…he event:

ROB LIEFELD – Rob Liefeld had childhood dream to draw comic books. As a teenager, he fulfilled that dream and began working for Marvel Comics X-men titles and introducing the world to Deadpool, Cable and X-Force! In 1992 Rob, with his other artist friends, launched Image Comics with the debt of the popular Youngblood franchise. This year, Rob launched THE INFINITE with co-creator and writer Robert Kirkman, and is now returning to HAWK & DOVE with Sterling Gates as part of DC’s NEW 52 Relaunch.

STERLING GATES started at DC comics writing a couple of short Green Lantern stories, which led to a stint on Green Lantern Corps, and then a regular gig on Supergirl. With DC’s new relaunch, Gates is taking over the reigns of HAWK & DOVE.

JT KRUL – already a huge store favorite at Collector’s Paradise, JT’s meteoric rise to fame in the last couple of years has been fantastic to watch. Starting out at Aspen Comics where he took over writing of Fathom & Soulfire after Michael Turner’s untimely death, JT’s writing got noticed by DC Comics, who, after a few one shots and small assignments, gave JT his biggest break, relaunching Green Arrow and taking over Teen Titans. With DC’s relaunch, JT adds Captain Atom to his Green Arrow assignment.

We are also SUPER PROUD to host, for the first time in Pasadena, our dear friend, a Comic Book Industry LEGEND, Marv Wolfman, to commemorate release of his instant Classic Hardcover Graphic Novel – “Teen Titans: Games”, drawn by George Perez. Marv is a true legend of our industry, the writer of Crisis of Infinite Earth, co-creator or creator of a huge amount of most popular comic book characters, including : Teen Titans (with George Perez), Black Cat, Blade, Nova, Nightwing, Deathstroke, Bullseye and countless others.

Collector’s Paradise
319 S. Arroyo Parkway, Unit 4, Pasadena, CA

Hero Initiative at WonderCon 2011

Press Release:

Hero Initiative Celebrates WonderCon’s 25th Anniversary With A Fundraiser Sponsored by IDW for The Cartoon Art Museum and the Hero Initiative with Special Guest Berkeley Breathed

Sketch of your choice by Arthur Adams at Auction and Special Guests singings!

LOS ANGELES, CA: WonderCon celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2011 as one of the country’s best comics and popular arts events on the West Coast! Hero Initiative, the non-profit organization that supports comic creators in financial need, will be there celebrating with the crowd at the Moscone Center South in San Francisco, Friday April 1 through Sunday April 3.

To help celebrate, The Hero Initiative and the Cartoon Art Museum proudly present the Annual WonderCon Weekend Party and Silent Auction, generously sponsored by IDW Publishing. The party will be held on Saturday, April 2, from 8pm to 11pm at the museum located at 665 Mission Street in San Francisco, right around the corner for the convention. Tickets for this event will be sold on a sliding scale from $10 to $100. Special incentives will be given for higher-level donations including membership, signed catalogs, and special limited edition prints. Advance tickets may be purchased through this link: http://guestli.st/48612. Capacity for this special event is limited, and advance reservations are recommended otherwise tickets can be purchased at the door. Don’t miss out on the fun; you never know who will show up!

In addition, we are giving you a chance to get a convention sketch from master artist Arthur Adams! Go to: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290548732226 for details, and you could win a single-character inked drawing of a character of your choosing. The winning bidder MUST be paid in full by April 1st and bring their PayPal receipt with photo ID to the Hero Initiative booth, #702.

At our booth we will have newly released Archie: 50 Times and American Icon book for sale! All 50 amazing covers have been donated from artists around the world to comprise this fantastic collection! Get it while supplies last! Don’t forget to check out our line up for sketches and signatures. Proceeds all go to Hero Initiative’s great cause. Check it out!

Booth schedule as follows:

Friday April 1, 12-7
Marv Wolfman 330-430
Jason Aaron 4-5
Francis Manapul 430-600

Saturday April 2, 10-7
Francis Manapul 1-3
Marv Wolfman 430-530

Sunday April 3, 11-5
Terry Moore 1-2

CAM
The Cartoon Art Museum is the only museum in the western United States dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of cartoon art in all its forms.

About The Hero Initiative:
The Hero Initiative is the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strict 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.

WonderCon 2011 Program Schedule Released

Press Release:

WonderCon Schedule Released, Comics and Hollywood Stars Headline

Event’s 25th Anniversary Promises to Be Most Spectacular to Date

SAN FRANCISCO, March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Comic-Con International (Comic-Con), the parent company of WonderCon, today released the much anticipated program schedule for the event, which will be held Friday through Sunday, April 1–3, at Moscone Center in San Francisco.

The popular convention features every major comic book publisher, as well as major Hollywood movie studios and stars of comics, movies, and television.

“This year’s lineup is pretty spectacular,” commented David Glanzer, WonderCon’s Director of Marketing and Public Relations. “Programming is always at the heart of our shows, and I think this year’s slate will prove to be among the most exciting yet.”

Originally considered a regional show for Northern California, in recent years WonderCon has followed her sister event, the San Diego Comic-Con, in becoming a full-fledged national show attracting attendees and media from all over the country.

WonderCon 2011 features some of the premier stars of the comics world including Jason Aaron, Sergio Aragones, Berkeley Breathed, Tony Daniel, Mark Evanier, Adam Hughes, Robert Kirkman, Hope Larson, Bob Layton, Paul Levitz, Jeremy Love, Francis Manapul, Carla Speed McNeil, Terry Moore, Ryan Ottley, Joe Quesada, Frank Quitely, Amy Reeder, James Robinson, Seth, Bill Sienkiewicz, Len Wein, F. Paul Wison, Judd Winick, and Marv Wolfman.

Hollywood has a major presence at WonderCon this year as well, joining the action with an exclusive peek at Green Lantern with stars Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively and Peter Sarsgaard; a Cowboys & Aliens discussion with director Jon Favreau; a special presentation on the movie Immortals featuring Henry Cavill (the new Superman) and Kellan Lutz; and appearances by V’s Elizabeth Mitchell, Priest’s Paul Bettany, Super’s Rainn Wilson, Human Target’s Mark Valley, and Breaking In’s Christian Slater.

The complete WonderCon programming schedule can be found at http://www.comic-con.org/wc/wc_prog.php. WonderCon ticketing details and additional information about the Comic-Con family of conventions can be found at www.comic-con.org.

About WonderCon:

WonderCon, one of the country’s best comics and popular arts conventions, is part of Comic-Con International (CCI), a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to creating awareness of, and appreciation for, comics and related popular art forms. The organization achieves its mission primarily through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of comics to art and culture. In addition to San Francisco–based WonderCon each spring, CCI organizes San Diego Comic-Con each summer (the world’s largest comics convention of its kind) and San Francisco’s Alternative Press Expo (APE) each fall. On the web: WonderCon.org, Facebook.com/wondercon, Twitter.com/wondercon.

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