Nov 11: Metropolis at JICC

Metropolis to be screened at the Japan Information and Culture Center,  Embassy of Japan.

DC Anime Club in collaboration with Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan Present screen Metropolis on
Friday November 13, 2009 6:30 pm at Lafayette Center III (Lower Level) 1155 21st Street, NW Washington, DC 20036 as part of inaugural showing for a new film series based on both Anime (Japanese Animation) and Manga ( Japanese Comics).

Kenichi and his detective uncle, Shunsaku Ban, leave Japan to visit Metropolis, in search of the criminal, Dr. Laughton. However, when they finally find Dr. Laughton, Kenichi and Shunsaku find themselves seperated and plunged into the middle of a larger conspiracy. While Shunsaku searches for his nephew and explanations, Kenichi tries to protect Tima (a mysterious young girl), from Duke Red and his adopted son Rock, both of whom have very different reasons for wanting to find her.
This event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required.

RSVP to jiccrsvpfall09@embjapan.org.

Seating is limited and granted on a first come, first served basis.

For more information please visit the Japanese Information and Culture Center website at

http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/index.htm or visit the DC Anime Club website at http://dcanimeclub.org.


CONTACT: Chris Wanamaker, (202) 262 2083 president@dcanimeclub.org

Another Luna Brothers interview

The End of the Luna's THE SWORD ... Incommminngggg!
By Vaneta Rogers
Newsarama 15 October 2009

Tomorrow - Karasik at Politics and Prose

Paul Karasik writes in

Just a head's-up that I will be coming to Politics & Prose on Sunday, October 18th to present "The Fletcher Hanks Experience". My first collection of stories by Maryland homeboy, Fletcher Hanks, netted an Eisner Award, and the second book, "You Shall Die By Your Own Evil Creation!" has been recently released. Together the two volumes comprise the Complete Works of the long forgotten cartoonist whom R. Crumb, himself, called, "a twisted dude"!
--
www.fletcherhanks.com

I've bought both volumes already.

Scoop features Mark Zaid

ORIGIN ISSUE: Mark Zaid, Scoop October 16 2009, is on why he collects.

Zadzooks on superhero animation

"Zadzooks: Batman and Superman: Public Enemies, X-Men: The Animated Adventures" Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times October 15, 2009.

OT: Tomi Ungerer in today's NY Times

Tomi Ungerer, a truly great cartoonist is profiled in today's paper so I'll put up a pointer to it - "A Perpetual Outsider With a Museum of His Own," By MICHAEL KIMMELMAN, October 15, 2009.

Comic Riffs' Herblock article also in today's hardcopy Post

A trimmed-down version of Cavna's Comic Riffs' article on Herblock is in today's paper - "Herblock, Through The Eyes Of History," By Michael Cavna, Washington Post Staff Writer, Wednesday, October 14, 2009.

Ian Sattler reminisces about being Big Planet prole

Ian, who used to write a good bit of the Big Planet Orbit newsletter even when he went Hollywood, is now a DC honcho and gave a shout out to the old home store at the Baltimore Comic Con. Another BP alum is Dan Nadel of Picturebox publishing fame.

Weldon on Matt Kindt

A Big-and-Tall Tale: See The Lovely, Haunting Images Of Matt Kindt's '3 Story'
by Glen Weldon
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog October 14, 2009

Comic Story Arc blog features opinion by local comic book reader

My friend John Daniels has restarted his comic book review blog, Comic Story Arc, with looks at Hatter M and Frank Beddor's new novel. Check it out.

DC Comic Books Examiner: Costume cavalcade at Baltimore Comic-con

Costume cavalcade at Baltimore Comic-con Tuesday, October 13, 2009 On Charles St. a Wonder Woman walks next to Tank Girl, her freind pushes a baby carriage away from the Baltimore's Convention Center, that marked the weekend occasion, towards the downtown stores and eateries. The two women set an image for conventioners... Read more » DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin Mark Ruffin, a reader of comics for over twenty years, is a freelance writer who tirelessly generates awareness for the Non-Fraternity Conversation and Write-up on Comic Books. Contact Mark here.

 

Nevin Martell interviewed at CBR

Local author Nevin Martell is interviewed about his new Calvin & Hobbes book - "Talking Comics with Tim: Nevin Martell," by Tim O'Shea, Comic Book Recources October 12, 2009.

Martell's got a nice word about Our Man Thompson too - Richard Thompson's "Cul de Sac" has a great artistic sensibility and top-notch writing -- I describe it in the book as "[looking] like Ralph Steadman and Charles Schulz fighting over a pen to draw "The Yellow Kid" crossed with "FoxTrot," with a dollop of Watterson’s wit thrown in for good measure."

Herblock exhibit covered by Tom Sherwood

NBC TV reporter (and former Wash Post writer iirc) Tom Sherwood also beat me to covering the Herblock exhibit -

He interviews my friends Martha Kennedy and Sara Duke, and you get a good sense of what the exhibit looks like.

ABC has a text story on the exhibit - "Herblock: Cartoonist Who Coined 'McCarthyism' Honored at Library of Congress; Master of Editorial Cartooning: Herbert Block Cartoons on Display," By LINDSEY ELLERSON, Oct. 13, 2009.

As does the sadly-diminished Syndicate World section of Editor and Publisher - "Library of Congress Opens 'Herblock!' Exhibit," By Elaine Williams, E& P Online October 13, 2009.

Comic Riffs on new Herblock exhibit

Michael beat me to the punch with his article -

The 'Herblock!' Show: Cartoonists, Library of Congress Pay Tribute on Legend's 100th Birthday
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog October 13, 2009

Catching up with Weingarten's irregular chats

Since he took the latest Post buyout, Gene Weingarten's been chatting irregularly. He did one on September 29th where he took Zits somewhat to task (in the first poll) for racial insensitivity.

Actually, in his comments later, he says, "Gene Weingarten: I am surprised that I am in such a small minority that finds both versions of the cartoon problematic. To me, both versions are (humorously) equating the suffering of victims of terrible cataclysmic human injustices -- the Holocaust, slavery -- to the suffering of high school students in detention." He's speaking of a reference to Harriet Tubman smuggling a student in the original, versus Oskar Schindler in his modified version. For the record, neither particularly bothered me. The debate between Gene and his readers goes on for a while if one is interested.

I agree with this responder: Baltimore, Md.: "To me, both versions are (humorously) equating the suffering of victims of terrible cataclysmic human injustices -- the Holocaust, slavery -- to the suffering of high school students in detention." Really? Can't believe you, of all people, read it so literally. It's not about detention = slavery and the Holocaust. It's about Stupid Teenage Drama that equates detention with "terrible cataclysmic human injustices."

Gene Weingarten: I accept that is how most people are reading it. I'll go further: I'll accept that I must be oversensitive.

In the second poll, he took some shots at the first Our Town panel. The polls running pretty hard against Our Town, but that's perhaps due to the negative slant the questions have. On the other hand, this was a bad choice to start the feature off with. The idea of a park for handicapped kids is not an intuitive one, as most of us have never seen such a park.

As I continue reading, I find Gene says in response to someone who'd been to the park and liked it "I don't get it. If this is about a place for handicapped children, why are there no handicapped children? If it is filled with rides, why are there no rides shown? If it is a place of extreme bliss, why is no one shown having fun? Why is everyone just... standing around? Why do the words -- bliss, joy, etc. -- seem to counteract the imagery? Does it seem to anyone else as though this seemed a little ... snide and sarcastic? I cannot believe it was meant to be that, but I'm not sure it's delivering whatever it meant to deliver. Why no color, except for in an occasional insignificant place? What purpose do the asterisks serve -- none that seems consistent with any prior use of asterisks that I have seen. Why is "acronym" continuously misused?"

Baltimore Comic Con photos continued - Cosplay

All photographs are by Claire.


Hawkwoman.


The Joker - an excellent version that reminded me of Marshall Rogers' art.


The Ghostbusters posed with a family, and doesn't the one on the right really look like Dan Ackroyd?


Rorschach, Nite Owl and Poison Ivy - a teamup that Alan Moore will never want to see.


Hawkwoman.


Scarlet Witch and the White Queen.


Scarlet Witch, #21 henchman of the Monarch from the Venture Bros cartoon, and the White Queen.

Here's an article about the cosplay contest - "Comic book fans get in character: Baltimore Comic-Con's debut costume contest draws dozens of colorful entrants," By Tricia Bishop, Baltimore Sun October 12, 2009.

I'm sure Bruce Guthrie will have plenty of photographs on his website of the cosplayers (link towards the right - over there).

Another Jeff Kinney interview

"Nothing 'Wimpy' about local author's success," By Heather McCarron, Milford Daily News Oct 12, 2009.

DC Comic Books Examiner: Baltimore Comic-con celebrated 10 year anniversary

Baltimore Comic-con celebrated 10 year anniversary Monday, October 12, 2009 Saturday's Baltimore Marathon and Sunday's Raven's game at M & T Bank Stadium were not the only events that percolated city commerce and contribute an exhuberant crowd this past weekend. The Baltimore Comic-con lit up the downtown area near Inner... Read more » DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin Mark Ruffin, a reader of comics for over twenty years, is a freelance writer who tirelessly generates awareness for the Non-Fraternity Conversation and Write-up on Comic Books. Contact Mark here.

Our Town, #3

The third Our Town appeared in the Washington Post Magazine yesterday. This piece of cartoon journalism is by Michael Cavna on the C&O Canal Boat Ride. Like the first one, I like the selection of the place, and the idea, but the strip is hampered by its small size. A half-page of a small magazine is not enough room to put in commentary and a drawing.

Washington Examiner editorial on Danish Islam Cartoons and Yale

I wouldn't have remotely written a column such as this one, but I am appalled by Yale's actions, inactions and stance regarding their Press' refusal to publish the Danish Islam Cartoons in a book about them, and then the over-reaction to Westergaard's visit. See "Yale chose Shariah over U.S. Constitution," by Diana West, Washington Examiner Columnist, October 11, 2009. I will note snarkily that the Constitution's guarantee of free speech doesn't mean that one has to take advantage of it.

Ann Telnaes has a new blog

Ann Telnaes writes in, "I'm doing a blog- not much writing, but reposting past print editorial cartoons which are still relevant today and linking to interesting news items: http://anntelnaes.blogspot.com/ "

Anyone interested in editorial cartooning should definitely check this out. Ann's one of the best cartoonists around, and her line is lovely.

Her animations are still appearing regularly on the Washington Post website.

Baltimore Comic Con photos continued

Baltimore Comic Con. Don Rosa correcting Scrooge's eyeglasses. He said he draws the view through the lenses but European publishers blank them out.


Baltimore Comic Con. Robert Montgomery and Don Rosa.


Rob Ullman. Rob said that he did well at the show, although Sunday was slower.


Frank Cho.


Image Comics booth.


Dark Horse Comics booth.


Tim Sale, racing the hourglass for some reason.


George Perez.


Scott Kurtz, with Greg Horn's booth signs showing oddly behind him.

Quick Reviews for Comics Due 10-14-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 10-14-09

By John Judy

 

ABSOLUTE DEATH HC by Neil Gaiman and Various Really Talented Artists.  If you are a Goth and a Neil Gaiman fan (but I repeat myself) you need to have this for your coffee table.  Or for that place on the floor where a coffee table one day will be.  Recommended.

 

MARVELS PROJECT #3 of 8 by Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting.  The Super-Soldier gets infiltrated, the Torch becomes a hero and Namor shows up looking for a fight!  A big one!  Recommended!

 

PUNISHER: FRANK CASTLE MAX #75 by Various Creators.  An anniversary issue containing five stories about the day Frank Castle lost it all and the world gained the Punisher.  And best of all, an eight page preview of the new Punsher series by Jason Aaron and Steve Dillon.  Recommended.  Not for kids.

 

SCALPED #32 by Jason Aaron and R.M. Guera.  Another mind-roasting issue of Indian Reservation Noir as Dash Bad Horse finds himself the object of attention of a jailed murderer and a drunk mystic (who is also a murderer).  And you think your Facebook stalkers are bad!  Highly recommended.  Not for kids.

 

UNCANNY X-MEN #516 by Matt Fraction and Greg Land.  Magneto!

 

UNWRITTEN #6 by Mike Carey and Peter Gross.  Tommy Taylor, having barely escaped the horror story murders last issue, must now get himself in tune with the Song of Roland.  And he's better be on tempo or else!  Recommended.

 

WALKING DEAD #66 by Robert Kirkman and Charles Adlard.  Last issue Rick and the gang got the jump on the cannibals who ate Dale's leg.  This issue, are they really gonna do what Rick said?  Just when you think Kirkman can't twist the emotional knife any deeper….  Recommended.  Not. For.  Kids.

 

WEB OF SPIDER-MAN #1 by Various Creators.  It's a new Spidey number one!

 

YOU ARE THERE HC by Jean-Claude Forest and Jacques Tardi.  A classic little something from Fantagraphics: An English language release of a key French book from the eighties, sort of a weird riff on Chekhov's "Cherry Orchard" about a once well-off landowner who loses the family plot to new money. High-brow comics that look good.  Recommended.

 

And finally, perhaps the best geek news of the week:  More DC Promo Green Lantern rings!  But not just in Green!  This week, in honor of the wildly successful and exciting "War of Light" storyline in the Green Lantern books, your finer retailers across the land will finally have Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo and Violet power rings!

 

I'm not saying that one out of every hundred of them really work, but I'm not denying it either…

 

www.johnjudy.net

 

Zadzooks on Marvel Ultimate Alliance videogame.

"Zadzooks: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 review," Joseph Szadkowski, Washington Times October 8, 2009.

Stitches reviewed in today's Post

It can take a while to find a book review since they're now hidden in the opinion (ie Outlook) section so I finally got to this review of David Small's Stitches - "Silenced Voice, Searing Pen," By Michael Sims, Washington Post October 11, 2009.

There's also an interview with Small on their website - "How Cinema Influences the Memoir "Stitches"," By Steven E. Levingston, Washington Post's Short Stack blog October 9, 2009.

Baltimore Comic Con photos

Dean Haspiel defacing a copy of The Act-i-vate Primer.

Here's my photographs from Sunday at the Baltimore Comic Con. Labels to follow, and more pictures will be put up here too. Most of the photographs were taken by Claire. (If you click through the link, several people are unidentified in the photo names, and if you know who they are, please comment).

Steve Conley original art

Here's a couple of pieces of Socks and Barney art I bought from Steve Conley at SPX. He ran out of them at Baltimore Comic Con or I probably would have bought some more. As you can see, you should definitely seek him out and buy some.



Steve Conley original strip art from Socks and Barney - ahh, that Mark Trail.



History judges George W. Bush.



'History' closeup - click through to note the blue line sketch behind the inks.

Jeff Kinney interview in Balitmore Sun

See "'Wimpy Kid' is becoming a popular kid: Part novel, part comic, the series by a Maryland alum is being turned into a film," By Mark Gross, Baltimore Sun October 11, 2009.

Whoops - happy birthday to Richard Thompson

Our Man Thompson turned 52 a couple of days ago, and I spaced out and missed it. So here's an 'artistic' picture for him too.

My Baltimore Comic Con plans

I'll be going up on Sunday, as early as I can get there. I just heard from Richard and he's not feeling well enough to go. Anyone who wants to try to reach me on the floor can probably find me on the artist's side most of the day, but my cell is 703-623-66-84.

Mike

The Jet Age - a comic? No, a band

Big Planet Comics owner Greg Bennett plays in a local band - The Jet Age. They've got a new album coming out on October 27th, and you can hear snippets online now. It sounds good - check it out.

Harvey's Heads, an amusing conceit

Jeff Newelt of Smith Magazine's invited artists to draw Harvey Pekar for his 70th birthday, and the results are on their Harvey's Heads page.

I'm no artist, but I think I'll try my hand, using the magic of digital cameras and Photoshop.

Post Magazine follows up on legally-blind cartoonist

See "Whatever Happened To .... Andre Campbell?: The art of kindness," By David Rowell, Washington Post Magazine Sunday, October 11, 2009.

To refresh your memory, I quote the first line, "Last December, the Magazine published an article about legally blind artist Andre Campbell and his determination to make it as a comic book author and illustrator."

Comic Riffs interviews Luckovich on Obama

They did it before the Nobel announcement though, which probably would have recast the whole conversation - "'Riffs Interview: As 'SNL' Satirizes Nobel-Winning Obama, Is Mike Luckovich Ready to Go Down That Same Road?" By Michael Cavna, Washington Post Comic Riffs blog October 9, 2009.

Oct 18: Paul Karasik at Politics and Prose

Paul Karasik writes in

Just a head's-up that I will be coming to Politics & Prose on Sunday, October 18th to present "The Fletcher Hanks Experience". My first collection of stories by Maryland homeboy, Fletcher Hanks, netted an Eisner Award, and the second book, "You Shall Die By Your Own Evil Creation!" has been recently released. Together the two volumes comprise the Complete Works of the long forgotten cartoonist whom R. Crumb, himself, called, "a twisted dude"!
--
www.fletcherhanks.com

I've bought both volumes already.

Oct 17: Poe comic signing in Baltimore

Colin S writes in:

 

The creators of Boom Studios' Poe comic are signing at GEM on Oct 17th.

 

http://www.conventionscene.com/2009/10/09/md-poe-signing/

Weldon on comics fashion

Superhero Meets Supermodel: A Short History of Comics' Weirdest Crossover

By Glen Weldon

National Public Radio's Monkey See Blog October 7, 2009

http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2009/10/superhero_meets_supermodel_a_s.html?sc=nl&cc=msb-20091008

Yes, that's Iron Man. Yes, that's Tim Gunn. We can explain. (Marvel Entertainment)

I enjoyed his post quite a bit, and just shot him a note saying so and adding a few bits as he requested:

He missed Mizrahi's Sandee the Supermodel and there's a bunch of swimsuit issues.  MSU's Comic Art Collection lists 2, but there are more -

Amazing Heroes Swimsuit Special. -- Seattle, WA :
Fantagraphics Books, 1990- . -- ill. ; 26 cm. -- Began with
no. 1 (June 1990) -- HOLDINGS: no. 1-3.
1. Pinup art. I. Swimsuit Special. II. Fantagraphics Books.

Call no.: PN6725.A47S9
-----------------------------------------------------
Marvel Swimsuit Special. -- New York : Marvel Comics, . --
col. ill. ; 28 cm. -- HOLDINGS: no. 2-3 (1993-1994)

1. Superheroine comics--Miscellanea. 2. Superhero
comics--Miscellanea. 3. Pinup art. I. Marvel Comics. I.
Swimsuit Special. Call no.: PN6728.6.M3M35In other comic art media,

Marisa Acocella did cartoon journalism for the NY Times Style section in 2000-2001 until she was fired when one of the subjects of the strip wasn't happy with her. Others have done some cartoon journalism too -

Burns, Charles. 1998. Clothes Encounters [cartoonist illustrates fashion show]. Details (August): 128-133.

and

Crumb, Robert and Aline.  2003. Fashion Week in New York OR Glamour and Free Lint Removers, September 12-19, 2003 [cartoon journalism]. New Yorker (October 13): 75-77

Oct 9: Chabon at GWU tomorrow

Comics-friendly authors Jonathan Lethem and Michael Chabon will be in town, reading from new books this fall.

Oct. 9; Chabon is at Lisner Auditorium, at 7:00, free.

Nov. 2: Lethem is at Folger Elizabethan Theatre, at 7:30, $15.

Oct 13: Baddies – Between Image and Text

From: Matt Dembicki  - 

FYI, this was posted at the DC Conspiracy messageboard...

The Program for Jewish Civilization 
at the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service
presents

Baddies – Between Image and Text
David Stromberg, Israeli Writer, Artist, and Journalist
Tuesday, October 13
4:00 PM - MSFS Conference Room, 7th Floor Intercultural Center (ICC) RSVP AT http://events.georgetown.edu/events/index.cfm?Action=View&CalendarID=349&EventID=69057

BADDIES looks aslant at everyday life, unearthing its most hilarious and ridiculous aspects amidst even our darkest fears and phobias. Inhabited by an antic and eclectic assortment of odd-ball characters, who star in chapters such as "Action and Its Doubt," "The Day and Its Battle," "Mystery and Its Carnality," these captioned cartoons capture a world forever veering off from the normal, the rational, and the "well adjusted."

http://www.mhpbooks.com/book.php?id=239

David Stromberg is a writer, artist, and journalist. His publications include three collections of single-panel cartoons—Saddies, Confusies, and Desperaddies—and he has written on art and culture for The Believer, Nextbook, St. Petersburg Times, Jerusalem Post, and Ha'aretz. His fiction has appeared in the UK's Ambit. Born in Ashdod, Israel, to ex-Soviet parents, Stromberg grew up in urban Los Angeles and currently resides in Jerusalem.

Free Admission 

Program for Jewish Civilization
Georgetown University 
37th and O Streets
Washington, DC 20057 
pjc.georgetown.edu

Questions or comments? E-mail us at cjcinfo@georgetown.eduor call (202) 687-4245
 
Missed a lecture? Visit http://pjc.georgetown.edu/events/audio/ to download it to your iPod.

The team-up you never thought you'd see! Today in the Post!

Today’s illustration for the Carolyn Hax / Tell Me About It / Ask Carolyn advice column by Nick Galifianakis is his dad, artist Peter Galifianakis and … BATMAN! See it on page C2.

 

Oct 21-25: Disney on Ice Celebrations!

Oct 21-25: Disney on Ice Celebrations! is at George Mason's Patriot Center. These shows are good fun for younger children - I took Claire to see the Incredibles on ice there a few years back, and we all enjoyed it.

Oct 22: Cartoons & Cocktails auction

Oct 22 at the National Press Club at 6 pm is the annual Cartoons & Cocktails fundraising auction.

Important Travel Information for the 2009 Baltimore Comic-Con

I got this from the BCC people today, so I'm pretty sure Our Man Thompson and I will be attending on Sunday instead.

Important Travel Information for the 2009 Baltimore Comic-Con Baltimore, Maryland - October 6, 2009 - The 10th annual Baltimore Comic-Con falls on October 10-11, 2009, and this year, the Baltimore Marathon will occur on our opening day, October 10th.  This will be different than the standard Orioles or Ravens game, so we want to pass on what information we can to make your commute into Baltimore as easy as possible.   Getting to the Show on Saturday, October 10th.  Due to the Baltimore Marathon, traffic might be a little strange due road closures on nearby streets.  Here are our suggestions for avoiding traffic problems on your way to the show Saturday morning.   Even more than in past years, the Baltimore Comic-Con recommends taking the light rail when attending the show this year.  We're excited to be sharing the stage with the Baltimore Running Festival on Saturday, October 10th, but as you can imagine, the races will affect traffic off and on during the day.  There are no road closures going directly to the Convention Center, but there will be periodic road closures in the downtown area into the afternoon, potentially causing delays.  Light Rail: The Light Rail makes it an easy trip to the Baltimore Comic-Con, costing $1.60 for a one-way pass or $3.50 for a full-day pass and dropping you within 1.5 blocks of the Sharp Street entrance of the Convention Center, our location this year.  Please click on the link below for the Light Rail stops:   http://www.mtamaryland.com/services/lightrail/schedule/June_14th_2009_schedule_changes_index.cfm Please click on the link below to find the most convenient Light Rail schedule for you:   http://www.mtamaryland.com/services/bus/schedule/LRMAP209.pdf   Parking: If you do intend to drive into the city for the show, we recommend leaving extra time in your schedule on Saturday to account for the extra people the Baltimore Marathon will be bringing downtown as well that morning.  Please follow the link to the Baltimore Convention Center Recommended parking: http://www.bccenter.org/downloads/userfiles/Parking_Web_Map.pdf As a reminder, we are in the Baltimore Convention Center and our halls can be accessed from the Sharp Street entrance.   Tickets Tickets are available at Cards, Comics & Collectibles of Reistertown, MD and Laughing Ogre Comics in Northern Virginia.  You can also buy your ticket in advance via http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets.htm to avoid the ticket line the day of the show.   Harvey Awards Ticket Sales Ticket for the 2009 Harvey Awards and Banquet are now on sale.  Place your order with a credit card by calling 410-526-7410.     We will continue to providing details on guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming leading up to the show.  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.

Fwd: DC Comic Books Examiner: Bamn creators step into comics ring as champion contenders Part 2

Bamn creators step into comics ring as champion contenders Part 2 Monday, October 5, 2009 "It was two artists who definitely had no business writing." Dave outlines the beginning stages. "At least me, not Jay, he's writing now. And Troy being a writer knew how to use words well and had a knowledge of wrestling with a background... Read more » DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin Mark Ruffin, a reader of comics for over twenty years, is a freelance writer who tirelessly generates awareness for the Non-Fraternity Conversation and Write-up on Comic Books. Contact Mark here.

 

Baltimore Comic Con Marathon?

So I was sitting around at work today, chatting over lunch and one of my coworkers mentioned that she was running in the Baltimore Marathon this weekend. To which my response was "Huh?"

Me and RT were planning on going up on Saturday, but this marathon map makes me think that we should postpone until Sunday.

You know, I hate these things in DC because I can't get into the city (oddly enough they never block the Maryland approaches), and now they're following me up the coast. Does anyone more familiar with Baltimore have an idea of how bad the roads will be?

Quick Reviews for Comics Due 10-07-09

QUICK REVIEWS FOR COMICS DUE 10-07-09

By John Judy

 

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #608 by Marc Guggenheim and Luke Ross.  In which we re-visit the glory days of Spidey history known as "The Clone Saga."  Because who doesn't want to be reminded of that?

 

ASTONISHING X-MEN #31 by Warren Ellis and Phil Jimenez.  It's X-Men versus Aliens!  I mean "The Brood."  Yes, that's what I meant.  Never want to confuse the two.  Because they are totally different.  Marvel's lawyers assure me this is true.

 

BATMAN AND ROBIN #5 by Grant Morrison and Philip Tan.  The Red Hood and Scarlet think they're so tough.  Yeah, a lot of fools in Gotham used to think that…

 

BATMAN: THE UNSEEN #1 of 5 by Doug Moench and Kelley Jones.  Nobody does The Bat quite like these guys.  In this one the Dark Knight gets to fight a guy who is turning himself invisible, one layer at a time.  "Educational visuals."  That's what you should tell your parents, kids.  Recommended.

 

BEST AMERICAN COMICS 2009 HC edited by Charles Burns, Jessica Abel and Matt Madden.  The editors read a lot of comics from all over the place.  This is what they like this year.  Chances are you will too.  Recommended.

 

BLACK PANTHER #9 by Jonathan Maberry and Will Conrad.  And now Black Panther is fighting a villain called "Predator."  Oh, Marvel…!

 

BLOOM COUNTY COMPLETE LIBRARY VOL. 1 HC written and drawn by Berkley Breathed.  From the days when Reagan was President and the weird looking penguin was funny.  Or was it the other way around?

 

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER #29 by Jane Espenson and Georges Jeanty.  If you have to fight a demon army without using slayer magic it is a good thing to have guns, missiles and grenades.  I think Sun-Tzu said that…

 

CHRONICLES OF WORMWOOD: LAST BATTLE #1 of 6 by Garth Ennis and Oscar Jimenez.  The anti-Christ and Jesus team up and Pope Jacko takes over Hell.  Soooooo not for kids.  Fun stuff though.

 

CRIMINAL: SINNERS #1 by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips.  Tracy Lawless is back, solving a crime only a guy who's not a cop can solve.  Highly recommended.

 

DAREDEVIL #501 by Andy Diggle and Roberto De La Torre.  Exploring what it means to be half lawyer, half super-hero and half ninja crime lord.  Nevermind the math, just read and enjoy.  Recommended.

 

DOCTOR VOODOO: AVENGER OF THE SUPERNATURAL #1 by Rick Remander and Jefte Palo.  Brother Voodoo is now the Sorcerer Supreme of this universe.  Somebody once suggested this would be a good idea and Marvel Comics published it.  Remember this the next time you're ready to give up on your crazy little dream.

 

DOOM PATROL #3 by Giffen, DeMatteis, Clark and Maguire.  Mento is not a breath mint and Metal Men is not the name of a band.  This is what we learn from comics.

 

EC ARCHIVES: FRONTLINE COMBAT VOL. 1 HC by Various Geniuses.  Collecting the first six issues of this masterful series of war comics from 1950-51.  Still some of the best ever done.  Highly recommended.

 

FINAL CRISIS: AFTERMATH: RUN #6 of 6 by Matthew Sturges and Fredie E. Williams II.  Even though he helped roast the Martian Manhunter like a green marshmallow, I have come to love the Human Flame and hope he will not die forever in this final issue of his mini-series which has read like CRIMINAL if it were written by Mel Brooks.  Recommended.

 

HAUNT #1 by Robert Kirkman and Todd McFarlane.  A man must solve his brother's murder with the help of his ghost!  It's sort of like "Captain Triumph Meets Spawn." Hey, anything by Robert Kirkman gets a look.

 

IRREDEEMABLE #7 by Mark Waid and Peter Krause.  So Tony the super-hero was responsible for the sound plague that killed all those people.  But was that what pushed him over the edge into villainy?  Great stuff by Waid.  Recommended.

 

JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRY FOR JUSTICE #4 of 7 by James Robinson and Mauro Cascioli.  The series is more than half over but we are getting really close to having the entire team in the same place at the same time.  Plus, some of the heroes debate using torture to save lives.  Don't they know torture only works for Batman?  Who knew Dick Cheney was writing comics?

 

KILL AUDIO #1 of 6 by Claudio Sanchez and Sheldon Vella.  An immortal man seeks his purpose in life amidst a "musical landscape."  From the author of AMORY WARS.

 

MASTERPIECE COMICS HC written and drawn by R. Sikoryak.  This one is a true Must-Have if you are a fan of classic literature, classic comics and ingenious mash-ups.  This one lives up to its name.  Highly, highly recommended.

 

PLANETARY #27 by Warren Ellis and John Cassaday.  In April of 1998 the first issue shipped.  Eleven years and change later here it is:  The final issue, three years after #26.  For those of you who wait for the trades, I admire your discipline.  Gotta look.

 

STRANGE TALES #2 of 3 by Various Creators.  Indy creators take on the Marvel heroes and there are no lawsuits because Marvel hired them to do it!  Featuring variant Red and Green Hulk covers so it must be good!  Recommended.

 

SUPERMAN: WORLD OF NEW KRYPTON #8 of 12 by James Robinson, Greg Rucka and Pete Woods.  Supes and the Kryptonians have to face down the Thanagarian Army, all of whom have the power of… Hawkman?  Ummm, how to put this delicately?  "Much as I respect the power of flying and swinging a mace…?"

 

TORCH #2 of 8 by Mike Carey, Alex Ross and Patrick Berkenkotter.  The Mad Thinker tortures Toro, who is no longer dead, in order to learn more about the original Human Torch who is dead.  Mostly.  Watch out for low-flying continuity!

 

WAR HEROES #3 of 6 by Mark Millar and Tony Harris.  If distant memory serves this is a comic about super-powered soldiers in the middle east.  Hard to say.  Issue #2 came out in September of 2008.  I imagine Mark Millar sitting in a bar looking at Kevin Smith, muttering "Damn, that guy's fast…"

 

X-BABIES #1 of 4 by Gregg Schigiel and Jacob Chabot.  Let's say the Devil appeared to you one night and said he'd give you a shot at writing or drawing a book for Marvel featuring non-traditional versions of their iconic characters.  The catch is you'd have to drink yourself into unconsciousness every night for the rest of your life.  At least you can console yourself knowing that two other guys have already taken that deal.

 

X-MEN VERSUS AGENTS OF ATLAS #1 of 2 by Jeff Parker and Ed McGuinness.  For some reason these two groups are engaged in a Big Fight!

 

www.johnjudy.net

Our Town, #2

Ok, I despise the Post Magazine's make-over. You can't tell articles from ads, and much of what is included is pointless, like the Weekend section rehash at the end.

However, I want to like Our Town, the new cartoon reporting feature that started last week, but today's by Mark Giaimo features a burrito stand at... 15th and K - a good block at the most from the Post's front door. Wow, that's exciting.

Seriously. We should care about this?

ICAF 2009 program up online

From: Charles Hatfield

Now up online, reorganized, and greatly expanded: the program for the 14th Annual International Comic Arts Forum, ICAF 2009, to be held Oct. 15-17 at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago:

http://www.internationalcomicartsforum.org/icaf/a.html

Guests will include artists American artists Guy Davis and Sara Varon, UK artist John Miers (winner of the first-ever Digital Artist award for Web & Interactive Design, announced yesterday, http://www.digitalartistawards.com/), Spanish artists Max and Pere Joan, and Italian scholar Marco Pelleteri, winner of this year's John A. Lent Scholarship in Comics Studies.

Plus we'll have the usual diverse mix of scholars from all over -- this year's cohort includes Canadian, Norwegian, Indian, Japanese, German, and Belgian as well as US scholars -- giving refereed papers about the world(s) of comics!

DC Comic Books Examiner: Bamn creators step into comics ring as champion contenders Part 1

Bamn creators step into comics ring as champion contenders Part 1 Sunday, October 4, 2009 Jay Payne, Dave Dean and Troy Jeffrey Allen of Bamn are set up at left most flank of DC Conspiracy's tabled array at Sept.'s Small Press Expo. A miniature wrestling ring with an origami crafted version of their lead comic book character Bamn sets... Read more » DC Comic Books Examiner, Mark Ruffin Mark Ruffin, a reader of comics for over twenty years, is a freelance writer who tirelessly generates awareness for the Non-Fraternity Conversation and Write-up on Comic Books. Contact Mark here.

 

Local Huffington Post writer disses Doonesbury

William Klein asks Who Reads Doonesbury (Anymore)?
Political strategist, writer, humorist in Washington, D.C.
Huffington Post October 3, 2009

Personally I still think it's one of best strips running.

Unpublished Richard's Poor Almanack

Richard did a finger puppet of Dan Brown for last weekend that didn't run, but he put it on his blog. Also he notes that the new Cul de Sac book, collecting its second year, is out.

Family Guy takes a shot at editorial cartooning

Here's Cavna's take on the Family Guy's shot at editorial cartooning. Personally I think this is just a generic shot, and not one at Tom Toles. I'm only putting this up for the historical record, as it were.

PR: 2009 Harvey Awards Dinner and Presentation Ceremony Tickets Available

2009 Harvey Awards Dinner and Presentation Ceremony Tickets Available Now! Baltimore, Maryland - October 2, 2009 - The Harvey Awards dinner and presentation ceremony, featuring emcee Scott Kurtz and the presentation of the 2009 HERO Initiative Humanitarian Award to Neal Adams will be held on Saturday, October 10th at the Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards.   Harvey Awards tickets are on sale now.  Tickets to the event, which includes full cocktail hour (cash bar), full service dinner, awards ceremony, and gift bag are now available for $100.  Tickets are available by calling Cards, Comics & Collectibles in Reisterstown, Maryland at (410) 526-7410.  Major Credit Cards will be accepted for payment.  Dinner tickets must be purchased by Wednesday, October 7th and will not be available at the door.   The Harveys, named after the legendary MAD Magazine founding editor and master storyteller Harvey Kurtzman, recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories.  They are the only industry awards both nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals.   Guests for dinner and the awards ceremony will enjoy a full Baltimore-style crabcake banquet dinner and a lively show hosted by Scott Kurtz as our Master of Ceremonies.  All 21 Harvey Awards will be announced, as well the presentation of the 2009 HERO Initiative Humanitarian Award, honoring Neal Adams.   In addition to receiving numerous industry awards, including induction into the Harvey Awards' Jack Kirby Hall of Fame, Neal Adams is renowned for his social work within the artistic industry.  His lobbying for creators' rights, including royalties and the return of artwork, resulted in the modern system of art being returned to the artists who created it, along with better benefits, including sales royalties.  His most recent efforts found him collaborating with Joe Kubert and Stan Lee in an effort to force the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum in Poland to return Holocaust survivor Dina Babbitt's wartime artwork created during her Nazi captivity.  Neal created a 6-page comic book, which he pencilled and inked, highlighting the injustice suffered by Dina.  In recognition of his efforts on Dina's behalf, Neal will be receiving the Hero Initiative Humanitarian Award.   "We love the Harveys, and I have been a fan of and admired Neal for many years.  We are excited to join the HERO Initiative and honor Neal Adams", said Marc Nathan, promoter of the Baltimore Comic-Con.   Continuing the guest-pleasing promotion from years past, a gift bag will be available to all dinner guests.  The first 250 attendees will receive a gift bag containing the following:  A Batman or DC Universe Illustrated HC by Neal Adams (DC Comics),  PvP, vol. 1: At Large TP by Scott Kurtz (Image Comics), A Magnus/Solar/Turok Archive HC (Dark Horse Comics), Darkness Accursed TP (Top Cow Productions), G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra Movie Adaptation (IDW), A Marvel Variant Exclusive Comic (Diamond Comic Distributors),  Phineas and Ferb Chapter Book (Disney Book Group), Mom's Cancer by Brian Fies (Abrams Books), Creator Chronicles Preview DVD (Woodcrest Productions and Eva Ink), A Harvey Keychain (LaserMach), A Toon Tumbler (Popfun Merchandising), & A Surprise from BOOM! Studios.   For those who wish to attend the ceremony only, tickets are available for $15, or free for those with a two-day pass to the convention.  The hall will be opened for those ticket holders at approximately 9:15pm.  Attendees who purchase a ceremony-only ticket are not eligible to receive the gift bag.  The two day convention tickets may be purchased through Ticketmaster, accessible from http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets.htm.  Ceremony tickets may also be purchased via phone at 410-526-7410.   In addition to the Baltimore Comic-Con, named sponsors of the 2009 Harvey Awards include DC Comics, ComiXology, Image Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Diamond Comics Distrubutors, Geppi's Entertainment Museum, Insight Studios Group, Laughing Ogre Comics, Painted Visions Comics, Cards, & Games, Top Cow Productions, and Top Shelf Productions.  Without these sponsors, the event would not be possible and the Baltimore Comic-Con Staff expresses their gratitude. 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.

Comics Riff on Tomorrow

Tom Tomorrow that is - Cavna has an interview online at Comic Riffs. The closest that This Modern World runs is in the Baltimore City Paper, I think.

Style Invitational comic strip mashup with Staake

The clever among us should immediately go to the Washington Post's Style Invitational's contest for Week 837: Strip Search, October 3, 2009 to answer the question: Combine two comic strips that appear in The Washington Post or at http://www.washingtonpost.com/comics . This was probably somewhat inspired by all the recent Disney-Marvel mashups, but I like Bob Staake's take on Dilbert - Spider-Man. Feel free to write to me if you have a question about a strip in the print edition.

Baltimore Comic-Con 2009 First Annual Costume Contest, More!

Baltimore Comic-Con 2009 First Annual Costume Contest, More! Baltimore, Maryland - September 30, 2009 - In addition to the all-star line-up of talent scheduled at this year's gala 10th anniversary Baltimore Comic-Con, the show will host it's first-ever costume contest ... with a $1,000 grand prize!   "We wanted to take Sunday up a notch, which is normally the more laid-back day," said Marc Nathan, Baltimore Comic-Con promoter.  "We've been asked for years and years to have a costume contest - so we're kicking it off with a bang!"   The $1,000 grand prize will be awarded to the best over-all costume at the event, including pro and amateur costumes.  Other award categories will win DVD prize packages, comic book packages, and gift certificates to Cards, Comics and Collectibles of Reisterstown, Maryland.  Everyone who enters the contest will win passes to the advance screening of Summit Entertainment's newest film, ASTROBOY, which opens nationwide on Friday, October 23rd.   A panel of celebrity media judges will determine the contest winners, including Baltimore's own Ed Norris, and some world-famous comic book creators!   The contest will start at 3pm on Sunday, October 11th at the Baltimore Convention Center!   Ed Norris Signing Baltimore celebrity and media personality Ed Norris will be signing on Saturday, October 10th from 2pm-4pm!  Stop by the HC Noel booth in Artists Alley, check out his mini-comic, and get autographs while he's at the show!   AWAKENING Halloween Signing Tour Stops in Baltimore Archaia is making the first stop of their AWAKENING Halloween Signing Tour the Baltimore Comic-Con!  Stop by and by a copy or get your copy signed and receive a free print created exclusively for the signing tour.  In addition, attendees who provide Archaia with their e-mail address will receive a special link and login info at 12am on Halloween morning which will grant them exclusive access to the first chapter of AWAKENING volume two, due out next summer.   Art Auction The 2009 Baltimore Comic-Con Art Auction will be held Saturday, October 10th at 6pm in the main convention center lobby, and will feature pieces by artists including Adam Hughes, Frank Cho, Joe Kubert, and many more.  Futher details will be made available in a future press release. Guests The Baltimore Comic-Con guest list for 2009 includes:  Jason Aaron (Wolverine), Neal Adams (Batman), Mike and Laura Allred (Madman), Josh Alves (Arachnid Kid), Dick Ayers (Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos), Paul Azaceta (Amazing Spider-Man), Brian Michael Bendis (Avengers), Ryan Bodenheim (Red Mass for Mars), Doug Braithwaite (Wolverine: Origins), Pat Broderick (Vincent Price Presents), Harold Buchholz (Apathy Kat), Buzz (Atomika), Jim Calafiore (Batgirl), Eric Canete (Iron Man:  Enter the Mandarin), Nick Cardy (Aquaman), Jerry Carr (Cryptozoo Crew), Tommy Castillo (Kong:  King of Skull Island), Mike Cavallaro (ACT-I-VATE), Bernard Chang (Wonder Woman), Jo Chen (New Avengers:  The Reunion), Sean Chen (Dark Reign:  Fantastic Four), Jimmy Cheung (New Avengers: Illuminati), Cliff Chiang (Green Arrow & Black Canary), Frank Cho (Ultimates 4), Chris Claremont (X-Men Forever), Steve Conley (Star Trek:  Year Four), Jamie Cosley (Tony Pony),  J.M. DeMatteis (Metal Men), Todd Dezago (Marvel Adventures:  Spider-Man), Michael Dolce (Descendant), Evan Dorkin (Beasts of Burden), Jim Dougan (ACT-I-VATE), Jan Duursema (Star Wars:  Legacy), Sarah Dyer (Superman Adventures), Chondra Echert (Sunday only, KILL AUDIO), Steve Englehart (Avengers), Rich Faber (Roboy Red), Jay Faerber (Noble Causes), Tom Feister (GI Joe:  Origins), Michel Fiffe (ACT-I-VATE), David Finch (Ultimatum), Bob Fingerman (Recess Pieces), Matt Fraction (Uncanny X-Men), Franco (Tiny Titans), Simon Fraser (ACT-I-VATE), John Gallagher (Buzzboy), Bryan J.L. Glass (Mice Templar), Michael Golden (Spider-Man 1602), Jimmy Gownley (Amelia Rules), Sanford Greene (Marvel Adventures Spider-Man), Jenni Gregory (Ka-Blam), Allan Gross (Cryptozoo Crew), Tim Hamilton (ACT-I-VATE), Cully Hamner (Detective Comics), Tony Harris (Ex Machina), Dean Haspiel (ACT-I-VATE), Jennifer Hayden (ACT-I-VATE), Mark Hempel (Absolute Sandman), Greg Horn (Cover Stories:  The Art of Greg Horn), Adam Hughes (Power Girl), Jamal Igle (Supergirl), Kathryn Immonen (Runaways), Stuart Immonen (New Avengers), Joe Infurnari (ACT-I-VATE), Rebekah Isaacs, sponsored by Laughing Ogre Comics (DV8), Chris Ivy (Beast Boy), Georges Jeanty (Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Van Jensen (Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer), J.G. Jones (Final Crisis), Joe Jusko (Kolchak:  Tales of the Night Stalker), Karl Kesel (Marvel Apes), Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead), Barry Kitson (Amazing Spider-Man), Scott Koblish (Final Crisis:  Legion of Three Worlds), Joe Kubert (Wednesday Comics), Scott Kurtz (PvP), Erik Larsen (Savage Dragon), Greg LaRocque (Peter Parker:  The Spectacular Spider-Man), Jerry "The King" Lawler(Headlocked), Norman Lee (GeNext), Steve Lieber (Underground), Luna Brothers (The Sword), Andy MacDonald (NYC Mech), David Mack (Kabuki), Tom Mandrake (The Outsiders), Mike Manley (Batman:  Brave and the Bold), Larry Marder (Beanworld), Laura Martin (Thor), Ron Marz (Witchblade), Michael McElroy (Ka-Blam), Sean McKeever (Teen Titans), Mark McKenna (BananaTail), Mike McKone (Amazing Spider-Man), Bob McLeod (New Mutants), Carla Speed McNeil (Finder), Pop Mhan (World of Warcraft), Mark Morales (Secret Invasion), Doug Murray (Jungle Girl Season 2), Scott Neely (Scooby-Doo), Jamar Nicholas (Leon, Protector of the Playground), Steve Niles (30 Days of Night), Phil Noto (Batgirl), Kevin Nowlan (The Spirit), Mike Oeming (Mice Templar), Ryan Ottley (Invincible), Jeff Parker (Agents of ATLAS), Dan Parsons (Star Wars:  The Clone Wars), Guest of Honor George Perez (Final Crisis:  Legion of Three Worlds), David Petersen (Mouse Guard), Brandon Peterson (Ultimate Comics Armor Wars), Khoi Pham (Mighty Avengers), Whilce Portacio (Spawn), Eric Powell (The Goon), Buddy Prince (Night), Brian Pulido (Lady Death), Jack Purcell (Gotham Underground), Mike Raicht (Army of Darkness), Tom Raney (Dark Reign:  Hawkeye), Brian Reber (Captain Britain and MI13), Kat Roberts (ACT-I-VATE), 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), Andy Runton (Owly), Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo), Tim Sale (Heroes), Coheed & Cambria's Claudio Sanchez (Sunday only, KILL AUDIO), Ian Sattler (Final Crisis:  Aftermath), Scott Christian Sava (Dreamland Chronicles), Alex Saviuk (The Phantom Generations), Mr. Sheldon (Sunday Only, KILL AUDIO), Marc Silvestri (Witchblade), Walt Simonson (Thor), Andy Smith (Dean Koontz's Nevermore), John K. Snyder III (Doctor Mid-Nite), Allison Sohn (Star Wars trading card artist), Taki Soma (Rapture), Richard Starkings (Elephentmen), Brian Stelfreeze (Final Crisis Aftermath:  Ink), Karl Story (Batman:  Streets of Gotham), Bobby and Peter Timony (Zuda Comics), Robert Tinnell (EZ Street), Peter Tomasi (Blackest Night:  Batman), Herb Trimpe (Hulk), Billy Tucci (Sgt. Rock:  The Lost Battalion), Ted Tucker (Captain Happy), Jim Valentino (Shadowline Comics), Rob Venditti (The Surrogates), Dexter Vines (Wolverine), Neil Vokes (The Black Forest), Doug Wagner (The Ride), Matt Wagner (Grendel), Mark Waid (The Incredibles), Todd Webb (Nick Magazine), Len Wein (Justice League of America), Mark Whealey (Lone Justice), Renee Witterstaetter (Tex:  The Art of Mark Texeira -- The Artist's Great Escape), Brian Wood (sponsored by Laughing Ogre Comics, Northlanders), Bernie Wrightson (Swamp Thing), Kelly Yates (Amber Atoms), and Thom Zahler (Love & Capes).   Regrettably, Amanda Conner, Al Feldstein, Ron Garney, Michael Lark, Jimmy Palmiotti, Eric Powell, James Robinson, Jim Starlin, Paul Storrie, and Mark Texeira have had to cancel.  We look forward to seeing all of the return in 2010.   Tickets Tickets are available at Cards, Comics & Collectibles of Reistertown, MD, Laughing Ogre Comics in Northern Virginia, or pick them up this Sunday, October 4th, at the Capital Associates Comic Show in Tyson's Corner, VA from the Cards, Comics & Collectibles tables.  You can also buy your ticket in advance via http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets.htm to avoid the ticket line the day of the show.   Hotels Our previously-announced deadline for discounted hotel rooms has been extended by the participating hotels!  A good number of rooms have been sold already, but there are some still available through this offer, so please take a look at http://www.baltimorecomiccon.com/hotels.htm for details on room availability at hotels around the Baltimore Convention Center.    Harvey Awards Ticket Sales Ticket for the 2009 Harvey Awards and Banquet are now on sale.  Place your order with a credit card by calling 410-526-7410.     We will continue to providing details on guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming leading up to the show.  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.

Cartoons at Saturday brunch in Arlington

The Express has the story about how to get Bugs Bunny with your waffle.

Looking for Calvin and Hobbes booksignings

Nevin Martell writes in "I'm doing a couple of DC-area events" for his book "Looking for Calvin and Hobbes: The Unconventional Story of Bill Watterson and His Revolutionary Comic Strip"

Oct 29 at 7-9 PM - Bethesda, MD at Big Planet Comics
http://www.bigplanetcomics.com/index.htm

Nov 19 in Baileys Crossroads, VA at Borders
http://www.borders.com/online/store/StoreDetailView_45?schid=GLBC|Baileys+Crossroads+VA|45

Crafty Bastards fest this weekend

The Washington City Paper’s annual Craft Bastard festival is Saturday, Oct 3, 10-5 in Adams Morgan. There’s usually cartoonists there. Rob Ullman will definitely be there, and I’m sure the City Paper’s Ben Classen will also.

Disney film opens at E Street Cinema

According to today’s Express, the documentary Walt and El Grupo opens tomorrow at the E Street Cinema at 555 11^th St. This film looks at Walt Disney’s good will tour of South  America, which resulted in The Three Caballeros and some characters we rarely see that are popular in the rest of the world.

 

Comic Riffs poll on Cul de Sac

I'm falling a bit behind but Michael Cavna asked for reactions to Our Man Thompson's Cul de Sac earlier this week.