Fwd: Small Press Expo Announces the Ignatz Award Nominees for SPX 2011

Small Press Expo Announces the Ignatz Award Nominees for SPX 2011

For Immediate Release:         Contact: Warren Bernard

                  E-Mail: warren@spxpo.com

Bethesda, Maryland; August 18, 2011 - The Small Press Expo (SPX), the preeminent showcase for the exhibition of independent comics, graphic novels and alternative political cartoons, is pleased to announce nominees for the fifteenth annual presentation of the Ignatz Awards, a celebration of outstanding achievement in comics and cartooning.

The Ignatz, named after George Herriman's brick-wielding mouse from his long running comic strip Krazy Kat, recognizes exceptional work that challenges popular notions of what comics can achieve, both as an art form and as a means of personal expression. The Ignatz Awards are a festival prize, the first of such in the United States comic book industry.

The nominees for the ballot were determined by a panel of five of the best of today's comic artists, Rina Ayuyang, Mike Dawson, Kris Dresen, Theo Ellsworth, and John Porcellino, with the votes cast for the awards by the attendees during SPX. The Ignatz Awards will be presented at the gala Ignatz Awards ceremony held on Saturday, September 10, 2011 at 9:00 PM.

Additional information on the nominees and previews (as available) can be found at http://www.spxpo.com/ignatz-awards.

SPX will be held Saturday, September 10 from 11AM to 7PM and Sunday, September 11, noon-6PM at The North Bethesda Marriott Convention Center  in Bethesda, Maryland. Admission is $10 for a single day and $15 for both days.

For further information on the Ignatz Awards, the nominees or to request an interview, please contact Warren Bernard at warren@spxpo.com.

For more information on the Small Press Expo, please visit http://www.spxpo.com.

Outstanding Artist
Michael DeForge, Lose #3 (Koyama Press)
Edie Fake, Gaylord Phoenix (Secret Acres)
Renee French, H-Day (Picturebox)
Joseph Lambert, I Will Bite You (Secret Acres)
Carol Tyler, You'll Never Know, Vol 2: Collateral Damage (Fantagraphics)

Outstanding Anthology or Collection
Black Eye, edited by Ryan Standfest (Rotland Press)
Gay Genius, edited by Annie Murphy (Sparkplug)
I Will Bite You, Joseph Lambert (Secret Acres)
Make Me a Woman, Vanessa Davis (Drawn & Quarterly)
Three #1, edited by Robert Kirby (Rob Kirby Comics)

Outstanding Graphic Novel
Gaylord Phoenix, Edie Fake (Secret Acres)
The Heavy Hand, Chris Cilla (Sparkplug)
Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword, Barry Deutsch (Amulet Books)
Special Exits, Joyce Farmer (Fantagraphics)
You'll Never Know, Vol 2: Collateral Damage, Carol Tyler (Fantagraphics)

Outstanding Story
"Blood of the Virgin," Crickets #3, Sammy Harkham (self-published)
"Browntown," Love and Rockets: New Stories No. 3, Jaime Hernandez (Fantagraphics)
"LINT," Acme Novelty Library #20, Chris Ware (Drawn & Quarterly)
"The most gripping mind-exploding triumphantly electric of our time," Papercutter #15, Jonas Madden-Conner (Tugboat Press)
"Weekends Abroad," Three #1, Eric Orner (Rob Kirby Comics)

Promising New Talent
Darryl Ayo Brathwaite, House of Twelve Monthly #3 (Comixology)
Tony Breed, Finn and Charlie are Hitched (www.hitchedcomic.com)
Jesse Jacobs, Even the Giants (AdHouse)
Jon McNaught, Birchfield Close (Nobrow)
Jesse Moynihan, Forming (Nobrow)

Outstanding Series
Crickets, Sammy Harkham
Dungeon Quest, Joe Daly (Fantagraphics)
Everything Dies, Box Brown (self-published)
Lose, Michael DeForge (Koyama Books)
Reich, Elijah Brubaker (Sparkplug Comic Books)

Outstanding Comic
Crickets #3, Sammy Harkham (self-published)
Danger Country #1, Levon Jihanian (self-published)
Habitat #2, Dunja Jankovic (Sparkplug Comic Books)
Lose #3, Michael DeForge (Koyama Press)
The Magic Hedge, Marian Runk (self-published)

Outstanding Mini-Comic
Ben Died of a Train, Box Brown (self-published)
Danger Country #1, Levon Jihanian (self-published)
Gaylord Phoenix #5, Edie Fake (self-published)
Morning Song, Laura Terry (self-published)
Trans-Utopia, Tom Kaczynski (Uncivilized Books)

Outstanding Online Comic
Alphabet Horror, Nate Marsh: www.alphabethorror.com
A Cartoonist's Diary, Pascal Girard: www.tcj.com/author/pascal-girard/
Finn and Charlie are Hitched,Tony Breed: www.hitchedcomic.com
Hark! A Vagrant, Kate Beaton: www.harkavagrant.com
Lucky, Gabrielle Bell: www.gabriellebell.com

PR: Stan Lee Signing and Photo Op Schedule for Baltimore Comic-Con

I plan on being there both days, but not attempting to see Stan.

 

Stan Lee Signing and Photo Op Schedule for Baltimore Comic-Con Announced   BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - August 18, 2011 - The Baltimore Comic-Con is happy to announce the schedule of Autograph and Photo Op Sessions with Guest of Honor Stan Lee taking place this weekend at the show. The show will be held on August 20-21, 2011 at the Baltimore Convention Center.     The schedule for the weekend is as follows (ALL TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE):   Saturday, August 20   10:30am -11:00am - Photo Op   11:00am - 12:30pm - Autograph Session   1:00pm - 2:00pm - Autograph Session 2:00pm - 3:00pm - Photo Op   3:00pm - 4:30pm - Autograph Session     4:30pm - 5:00pm - Photo Op    Sunday, August 21    10:00am -10:30am - Photo Op   10:30am - 12:00pm - Autograph Session    1:00pm - 2:00pm - Photo Op   2:00pm - 2:45pm - Autograph Session   3:00pm - 4:00pm - Stan Lee Spotlight - Face Front, True Believers! This is a panel no comics fan will want to miss as Jimmy Palmiotti sits down with the one and only Stan "The Man" Lee! He is a Founding Father of the Marvel Universe and the face of Marvel Comics to legions of fans. Join the writer, editor, actor, and legend as he discusses his illustrious career. Excelsior! (ROOM 307-308)       * all Stan Lee autograph sessions are managed by Desert Wind Comics and all photo ops are managed by Froggy's Photos.  Times and events are subject to change.   In addition, fans can pick up some limited-edition Stan Lee memorabilia at the show this weekend, including: a lithograph by artist J. Scott Campbell; a lithograph by artist Jason Palmer, courtesy of POW! Entertainment; and a collectible pint glass courtesy of Toon Tumblers.   VIP Ticket Holders should report to the Will Call Registration Booth when the convention center opens at approximately 7:00am or whenever they arrive.   VIP Ticket holders will receive priority line access when claiming autograph and photographs so please make sure to get into the special VIP line at the photo and signature booth (#2401).  Lithographs and other items will be on sale at this booth.   Full Guest List A complete list of confirmed guests for this year's Baltimore Comic-Con can be found here.   Third Annual Costume Contest at the Baltimore Comic-Con - UPDATED The 3rd Annual Costume Contest will be held on Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 3:00 pm. With $1,000 up for grabs for the best overall costume and prizes for each of the 10 categories, this is one event all of you cosplayers don't want to miss! For more information and a complete list of catagories, visit our website's Costume Contest page.   Harvey Tickets Still Available Time is running out, but there is still an opportunity to attend the party! Join our MC Scott Kurtz, nominees, presenters, Stan Lee, and other fans at the Harvey Awards Banquet! Tickets available until Wednesday at baltimorecomiccon.com/harvey-awards.   Stan Lee VIP Packages Sold Out!  Autographs and Photos Still Available!  Please Note: Although the Stan Lee VIP Packages are officially sold out, individual autographs and photographs are still available and can be purchased by visiting http://baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets/.     Save the Date! Baltimore Comic-Con 2012! That's right! Mark your calendars now for next year's Baltimore Comic-Con, which will take place the weekend of September 8-9, 2012 at the Baltimore Convention Center, and we'll see YOU in Baltimore!   Twitter Hashtag  Will you be tweeting this year from the show floor? Make sure you use the #BCC2011 hashtag! See what the latest news and excitement at the 2010 Baltimore Comic-Con is about by tracking #BCC2011!   Attending the Baltimore Comic-Con? Show your support online! Simply change your social network (Facebook, Twitter, blog, etc.) avatar pictures to the "See You in Baltimore!" image and let the world know you're attending the show!      In coming weeks, look for more announcements from the Baltimore Comic-Con. We are looking forward to highlighting our guests, the Harvey Awards, industry exclusives, and programming. The latest developments can always be found at our website, Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace pages.   This year's Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 20-21, 2011. Convention hours are Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. The ceremony and banquet for the Harvey Awards will be held Saturday night, August 21st.   Contact Information Please use the following e-mail addresses to contact the Baltimore Comic-Con: press@baltimorecomiccon.com - for any general press inquiries or to be added to our PR distribution promoter@baltimorecomiccon.com - for requesting exhibitor, publisher, and Artist Alley applications registrar@baltimorecomiccon.com - for inquiries about submitted registrations harveys@baltimorecomiccon.com - for communications regarding the Harvey Awards ceremony and banquet general@baltimorecomiccon.com - for general Baltimore Comic-Con inquiries   About The Baltimore Comic-Con The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 12th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. With a guest list unequaled in the industry, the Baltimore Comic-Con will be held August 20-21, 2011. 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 6 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.

PR: JOHN G. FANTUCCHIO, ARTIST, WILL HAVE PAINTINGS ON EXHIBIT AND FOR SALE

John G. Fantucchio, former comic fanzine cartoonist, ex-CIA illustrator, award winning designer and fine artist, is exhibiting paintings this fall. Here’s the PR:

JOHN G. FANTUCCHIO, ARTIST, WILL HAVE PAINTINGS ON EXHIBIT AND FOR SALE IN TWO EXCITING SHOWS IN THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER

Number 1:

You are cordially invited to an art exhibit and sale.  The Del Ray Artisans Exhibit for the month of September theme is 'Retakes & Transformations . . . Art From Everyday Life' - September 2 - October 2, 2011.  The Del Ray Artisans Gallery is located at 2704 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA., 22301-1124.  Opening reception is Friday, September 2, 7 - 10 p.m.  John G. Fantucchio will be there for the reception.  John will have two paintings - one is titled 'Phil and Mac,' and the other is titled ' The Edge of Truth.'  These have two completely different approaches and different media, and both are thought-provoking and haunting paintings.  Other paintings by Del Ray artists will also be on exhibit and for sale.  Bring a friend.  Mouth-watering food and drink will be served.  A unique opportunity to meet other patrons of the arts, and a good time to talk with John and ask him questions about his works.  If you're not able to attend the reception, John will also make a special appearance on Sunday, September 18, 12:30 - 3:30.  Now is the time to corner him on the hows and meanings of his works.  Looking forward to seeing you there. 

 Number 2:

You are cordially invited to the 41st Annual Labor Day Art Show at Glen Echo Park in the Spanish Ballroom, 7300 MacArthur Boulevard, Glen Echo, Maryland 20812.  John G. Fantucchio will be there Sunday, September 4, 2011, between 12 and 3 p.m.  John will have two paintings on exhibit.  One is titled 'Aerea Fresca,' a large mixed media painting; the other is also a mixed media, titled 'Ayuh, Maine.'  These will both give you a breath of fresh air, and you'll want to touch the beautifully textured surface - but don't!  John says 'touch with your eyes only.'   They are not behind glass, and both are appropriately framed.  You will find John in the Spanish Ballroom exhibit hall at Glen Echo Park.  If you don't remember what John looks like, he's about 6 feet tall, losing his hair, and has a gray beard - very much like Monte Woolley in the old time movie ' The Man Who Came To Dinner.' Refreshments may be purchased outside the ballroom, and if you want to relax, you can always jump on to the carousel.  You may bring a picnic lunch - there are picnic tables.  Great for kids and the young at heart.  Bring a camera.  Many other paintings by local artists will be on display.  This is a good time to see John and talk art with him.  If you haven't been to Glen Echo before, or if it's been a while, bring your spouse and kids, a friend - you owe yourself a nice cool day off.  Looking forward to seeing you there. 

Comic Riffs talks to Bluewater about their political comics

Michelle Bachmann and Mitt Romney will star in new biographic comics
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog (August 17 2011)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/michelle-bachmann-and-mitt-romney-will-star-in-new-biographic-comics/2011/08/17/gIQAAjj8LJ_blog.html

Monkey See on comics writer Del Connell and adult animation

Comics Creator Del Connell, 1918-2011: A Long-Overdue, Super Goof-y Appreciation.
by Glen Weldon
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (August 17, 2011)
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/08/17/139697379/comics-creator-del-connell-1918-2011-a-long-overdue-super-goof-y-appreciation

Animation, Content And Cultural Coding: The Cartoon Study

  by Linda Holmes

National Public Radio's Monkey See blog (August 17, 2011)

http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/08/17/139700895/animation-content-and-cultural-coding-the-cartoon-study

PR: SPX Needs Your Help With Room Reservations at Marriott

Hey, we need a little help from those of you that will be staying at the Marriott. Here is the scoop. We reserve a block of rooms every year at the 'special' rate, this year being $109/night w/o taxes. If we do not fill a certain percentage of those rooms by a specific date, which right now is August 19 (trying to get it extended, will keep you posted..) we then have to pay the Marriott the difference. At this point we are 37 rooms short, which means we would pay the Marriott $4625. Money we would much rather give to the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. So, if anyone is out there that just has not gotten around to making their reservations, please make them ASAP. This would help us out alot. Here is the web site for the hotel: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/wasbn-bethesda-north-marriott-hotel-and-conference-center/ Use EXPEXPA in the Group Code field under "Special Rates and Rewards" right above the FIND button on the left hand side of the page below where you enter the dates for your rooms. Oh, if for some reason you see a cheaper rate out there that you use, please send me an e-mail at warren@spxpo.com so we can get credit for your rooms. Thanks a ton for your help, we appreciate it!! See all of you soon, Warren

Jo Chen's panel at San Diego Comic-Con

CCI: Spotlight on Jo Chen
by Bryan J. Daggett, August 8th, 2011
http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=33756

Former Washingtonian Dan Nadel interviewed

PictureBox Inc.: Rewriting Post-WWII Visual Culture
by Thea Liberty Nichols
Arts:21 blog August 12th, 2011
http://blog.art21.org/2011/08/12/picturebox-inc-rewriting-post-wwii-visual-culture/

Truitt on Spider-Island again

Spider-Mom gets her time to shine in 'Spider-Island' series
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY August 15 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-08-15-Spider-Mom-shines-in-Spider-Island-digital-comic_n.htm

Team Cul de Sac artwork video preview

Team Cul de Sac founder Chris Sparks has made an artwork video preview - golly, so much to bid on.

Comic Riffs has a bit of commentary.

There's a lot of local cartoonists I see in here and the video ends on Carolyn Belefski's Curls.

PR: Intervention Con

Press Release
INTERVENTION CONVENTION BRINGS CYBER-LIFE TO REAL LIFE
Event brings creators and fans together for weekend of learning and fun

ROCKVILLE, MD, June 14, 2011: Intervention, taking place at the Hilton Washington DC/Rockville in Rockville, MD, from September 16-18, 2011, is an indie creator and geek culture convention for the Internet generation. One part conference, one part fandom event, Intervention aims to provide both creators and fans a venue to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the opportunities technology provides.

"James [Harknell] and I wanted to put together an event that would complement the existing print- centric conventions – we wanted to showcase the creators who use the Internet as their primary publishing method," says convention founder Onezumi Hartstein. "I went to conventions for years to promote my webcomic, and was always treated well, but felt that web creators needed their own space. We're giving them that with Intervention." After a very successful first run in 2010, this year will mark Hartstein's second time organizing the event.

Over thirty guests are currently scheduled to attend, bringing three days of panels and educational workshops. Fans of all stripes are also encouraged to submit their own cutting-edge programming, showcase their own works, and schedule their own meetups at the event. A special track of children's programming will be overseen by Matt Blum, managing editor of the GeekDad blog on Wired.com.

Sponsored by Think Geek www.thinkgeek.com(), Wacom www.wacom.com(), Foam Brain Games www.foambrain.com(), 4Imprint www.4imprint.com(), Squishable www.squishable.com(), and Toy Vault www.toyvault.com(), the convention will also feature video and board gaming, an extensive Artist Alley, live action roleplay (LARP), musical performances, a Steampunk-themed dance, and plenty of giveaways. A charity auction will benefit the Electronic Frontier Foundation www.eff.org(), a civil liberties group that aims to defend freedom on the Internet.

Tickets for Intervention can be bought at http://www.interventioncon.com for $35 for the full weekend (through June 30, 2011). Tickets bought at the door will cost $45, with single-day rates available. More information about guests and events can be found at http://www.interventioncon.com.

Anime USA press release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ANIME USA ANNOUNCES TROPICAL GETAWAY PRIZE

Grand prize for 2011 Masquerade will be a Hawaii trip for two

At this year's Masquerade, Anime USA will be giving away its most lavish grand prize yet: a trip for two to Honolulu, Hawaii.

The trip includes two airplane tickets and hotel lodging for three days and three nights. It will take place in Spring 2012.

Fans can begin to register for Anime USA's 2011 Masquerade (and secure a chance at the grand prize) in October, 2011, at www.animeusa.org.

 

About Anime USA: In 1999 Anime USA began as a northern Virginia convention started by fans, and in 2004 become a non-profit educational organization. Our mission is to educate the public about and promote Japanese arts and popular culture. As in the beginning, we remain a convention of fans, by fans, and for fans. Anime USA is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit.

Anime USA 2011 will be held November 18-20 at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Arlington, VA. For more information and to register for the convention, visit us at www.animeusa.org.

 ###

 

Contact: John Bowers

Marketing Director, Anime USA,

john.bowers@animeusa.org

Luna Brothers' Ultra collection coming out

Lunas Promote ULTRA Hardcover with Live-Action Trailer
By Vaneta Rogers, Newsarama 30 July 2011
http://www.newsarama.com/comics/ultra-luna-brothers-trailer-hardcover-110730.html

Truitt on the Avengers

It's the Avengers vs. Norman Osborn in 'H.A.M.M.E.R. War'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY August 11 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-08-11-Avengers-Norman-Osborn-in-HAMMER-War_n.htm

Stan Lee at Nats game on August 19th

Comics Riffs is reporting that Stan Lee will be throwing out the first pitch on August 19th.

Comicsgirl on Roman and Telgemeier appearance

Their appearance at One More Page bookstore this past week was great fun. Comicsgirl has her take on it online now.

For what it's worth, I won the 'disgusted' drawing in the raffle of the artwork, but I let all the kids who won pick first, so in the 'Dave vs Raina' artwork battle? - Raina won.

Truitt on Shaky Kane

Shaky Kane revs up a new edition of 'Monster Truck'
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY August 12 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-08-12-Shaky-Kane-revs-up-a-new-edition-of-Monster-Truck-graphic-novel_n.htm

That darn Brodner

Letter to the Editor
Lack of balance in covering the debt ceiling
Mark Stamm
Washington Post August 13 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/lack-of-balance-in-covering-the-debt-ceiling/2011/08/08/gIQAEALtBJ_story.html

That darn Galifianakis

Letter to the Editor
Children should be spared cartoon ridicule
Anne C. Whipp
Washington Post August 13 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/children-should-be-spared-cartoon-ridicule/2011/08/05/gIQAkgOuBJ_story.html

Comic Riffs on new webcomic by old hands

HOT NEW WEBCOMIC: 'Penny Arcade' & 'PvP' creators tap readers' 'horror stories' with 'The Trenches'
By Michael Cavna
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog August 12 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/hot-new-webcomic-penny-arcade-and-pvp-creators-find-fans-with-the-trenches/2011/08/11/gIQA4UX5AJ_blog.html#pagebreak

Air Force Band does Disney & Pixar favorites tonight in Arlington

The Air Force Concert Band & Singing Sergeants do Disney & Pixar favorites tonight in Arlington at the Air Force Memorial at 8 pm.

GeekDad is shocked, SHOCKED at comic book business as usual

Marvel Bribes Retailers to Destroy DC Comics
By Jason Cranford Teague
August 10, 2011
http://www.wired.com/geekdad/2011/08/the-great-marvel-comics-rip-off/

Thanks to Bruce Guthrie, who pointed this out and noted the tag line:

 

Jason lives near DC with his wife and two kids, where he works for Forum One, practicing User Experience on unsuspecting Web surfers. He loves Doctor Who, Comics, and playing Lego Rock Band and You Don't Know Jack on the Wii with his kids — although the latter is not likely to win him any parent of the year awards. Follow @jasonspeaking and @forumone on Twitter.

PR: Small Press Expo Announces Programming Slate for SPX 2011

Small Press Expo Announces Programming Slate for SPX 2011

For Immediate Release                   Contact: Warren Bernard

E-Mail: warren@spxpo.com

Bethesda, Maryland; August  11, 2010 – The Small Press Expo (SPX), the preeminent showcase for the exhibition of independent comics, graphic novels and alternative political cartoons, is pleased to announce its slate of programming for SPX 2011. SPX is proud to have earned a reputation for offering some of the most insightful, stimulating public interviews and panel discussions in comics today, assembled by comics educator and curator Bill Kartalopoulos.

Audiences at this year's festival will have the opportunity to enjoy spotlight presentations and question-and-answer sessions with many of SPX's headline guests, including Chester Brown, Roz Chast, Anders Nilsen, Diane Noomin, Johnny Ryan, Alex Robinson, Ann Telnaes, Craig Thompson, and Jim Woodring.

This year's programming will also include a number of thoughtful panel discussions such as:

– "Inside The New Yorker," featuring Roz Chast and Kate Beaton in conversation.
– "Narrative Logic: Surreal and Obscure," with Marc Bell, Matthew Thurber, and Jim Woodring.
– "The Secret History of Women in Comics" with Jessica Abel, Diane Noomin and others, moderated by Heidi MacDonald.
– "Comics in the Library," a round-table discussion with Sara Duke from the Library of Congress, Charles Brownstein, and representatives of two local library systems.
– "Navigating the Contemporary Publishing Landscape" with Mike Dawson, Meredith Gran and Julia Wertz.
– "Images of the Body" with Robyn Chapman, Jennifer Hayden, Gabby Schulz, and Jen Vaughn.

Additional programming events will include a slideshow presentation by Kim Thompson about the works of French comics giant Jacques Tardi and a hands-on cartooning workshop open to all attendees.

This year's panels and spotlight sessions will be moderated by a bevy of critics, scholars, and other experts including Johanna Draper Carlson, Rob Clough, Craig Fischer, Martha H. Kennedy, Sean T. Collins, Joe McCulloch, and many more.

The complete schedule of programming is available on the SPX web site at http://www.spxpo.com/programming.

SPX Programming Coordinator Bill Kartalopoulos teaches classes about comics at Parsons The New School for Design. He also co-organizes the Brooklyn Comics Graphics Festival, reviews comics for Publishers Weekly, and has curated several comics-related exhibits including "Cartoon Polymaths" at the Sheila C. Johnson Design Center. He recently assisted Art Spiegelman on the production of MetaMaus, a book and DVD about the making of Maus.

SPX will be held Saturday, September 11 from 11AM – 7PM and Sunday, September 12, noon – 6PM at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Convention Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Admission is $10 for a single day and $15 for both days.

That darn Pearls Before Swine

Clean up your @&%$)# comic strip
Stephen Lay, Columbia
Baltimore Sun August 10, 2011
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/readersrespond/bs-ed-comic-strip-letter-20110810,0,7490658.story

...a Columbia resident who takes the Sun rather than the Post??

Marc Singer's book on Grant Morrison appears this fall

Howard University professor Marc Singer's book on Grant Morrison appears this fall. Marc's got an insightful and incisive take on comics, so I'm looking forward to this.

Weldon on Morrison's Supergods

In 'Supergods,' Grant Morrison Lovingly Dissects Do-Gooders and Their Derring-Do
by Glen Weldon
National Public Radio's Monkey See blog August 10, 2011
http://www.npr.org/blogs/monkeysee/2011/08/10/138931794/in-supergods-grant-morrison-lovingly-dissects-do-gooders-and-their-derring-do

Von Allan, friend of ComicsDC, has a new graphic novel out

Canadian Artist Von Allan Announces His New All-Ages Graphic Novel "Stargazer Volume Two."
 August 10th, 2011 12:09am by: Von Allan
http://www.theopenpress.com/index.php?a=press&id=112708

A couple of comics ads

My buddy Warren Bernard will be signing his book on comic artists and advertising later this month at Politics and Prose. Here's a couple by noted cartoonists Ed Nofziger and William Steig I found today that he may or may not have in the book - happy hunting!

Tonight - Roman and Telgemeier in Arlington

Wed, August 10, 6:30 pm: Special visit from the acclaimed authors/illustrators of Astronaut Academy (Dave Roman) and Smile (Raina Telgemeier)

One More Page | 2200 N. Westmoreland Street | #101 | Arlington | VA | 22213

Big Planet Comics & Nick Abadzis' Laika alternate endings noted

I mentioned this here before, but here's a brief article with links to the 4 new pages - which are on Big Planet's site.

Laika the Space Dog Survives in Alternate Happy Endings by Nick Abadzis
Aug 8th 2011
By: Andy Khouri
http://www.comicsalliance.com/2011/08/08/laika-happy-endings-nick-abadzis/

USA Today on Spider-Island

A little girl becomes a heroine in 'Spider-Island' series
By Brian Truitt, USA TODAY August 8 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-08-08-A-little-girl-becomes-a-heroine-in-Spider-Island-series_n.htm

That darn anime

Letter to the Editor
As anime evolves, take a page from comic books
Washington Post August 8 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/as-anime-evolves-take-a-page-from-comic-books/2011/08/07/gIQA4MIA3I_story.html

Washington Times on Otakon, curiously after the fact

Anime, manga and Japanese pop culture at Baltimore Otakon Con
Monday, August 8, 2011 - 60 Second Attention Span by Amy Phillips
http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/60-second-attention-span/2011/aug/8/anime-manga-japanese-baltimore-otakon-con/

Weldon on Green Lantern movie (a bit late)

'Green Lantern': A Hero's Light, Shuttered By Clutter
by Glen Weldon
NPR.org June 16, 2011
http://www.npr.org/2011/06/17/137150776/green-lantern-a-heros-light-shuttered-by-clutter

August 10: Raina Telgemeier and Dave Roman in Arlington

Smile was one of my favorite books last year.

·  Wed, August 10, 6:30 pm:  Special visit from the acclaimed authors/illustrators of Astronaut Academy (Dave Roman) and Smile (Raina Telgemeier)

One More Page | 2200 N. Westmoreland Street | #101 | Arlington | VA | 22213

 

Finally - the vitally important "SPX Map" of food

From: R. M. Rhodes (the man in the purple suit - Mike):

I put together a Google Map of places to eat in North Bethesda as a reference for people to use: http://t.co/IdY6sQJ


Taste of Flesh
Oceanus Procellarum Book Three
the new webcomic
by R. M. Rhodes
http://www.webcomicsnation.com/oletheros/op

Comic Book Diner: Fun & Funny Graphic Novel Boxed Set at Kickstarter

I just got my copy from John yesterday, and got to see my daughter's cameo - very cool.

Project Update #23: Want to Star in a Comic Book? In case you are missing this at our new Kickstarter page, we have started on the cameos-- we've added seevearl more otions to star in Leon, Roboy and Buzzboy-- check it out! Here's just one of the cameos from Buzzboy-- first up, Joe Murray from Captain Bluehen, with text added. We've already shown this page, but I wanted you to see that we can really hit the likeness-- or Rich can, when he fixes up my art to his satisfaction! :) Joe is one of our oldest friends in comics, and a retailer that can take on anything! His comics shop in Newark DE, Captain Bluehen Comics is super cool! It's funny, but I really didn't think to push the comic book cameos on facebook until last night-- and a few of you were kind enough to upgrade to the Cameo tier-- if you know anyone who wants their shot at comics stardom, either in the affordable $100 cameo, or as a featured character (See the $300 tier), this is their chance! Thanks again-- and if you are one of the many from the first Kickstarter project, welcome back! John Care to comment? View this update on Kickstarter →

Unsubscribe from this project's updates with one click KICKSTARTER

Video: Timelapse of Steve Brodner drawing "Boehner in the Middle"

The Post tells me:

 

The Washington Post has published a timelapse video of cartoonist Steve Brodner drawing "Boehner in the Middle":  http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/boehner-in-the-middle/2011/08/06/gIQACTDNzI_video.html

 

This is from The Washington Post's graphic novel "Scenes from a Showdown," illustrated by Brodner.

 

although I don't think a single newspaper page, enjoyable as it is, counts as a graphic novel...

Post reviews Superheroes documentary

The thin cape between courageous and creepy [online title: HBO's real-life 'Superheroes' are gallant yet unsettlingly goofy]
By Hank Stuever,
Washington Post August 8 2011, p. C1, 3
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/hbos-real-life-superheroes-are-gallant-yet-unsettlingly-goofy/2011/08/05/gIQAnjyz0I_story.html

 

Steve Brodner in Post

SCENES FROM A SHOWDOWN
BY STEVE BRODNER
Washington Post August 7 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/special/opinions/outlook/debt-ceiling-deal-timeline/index.html

The great debt-ceiling battle of 2011 captivated Washington, alarmed the world and annoyed the public. But why did it happen at all? Artist and illustrator Steve Brodner takes inspiration from The Washington Post's reporting to tell the story of this summer's standoff. It's a tale of patient planning, unmet expectations and political gamesmanship -- with the American economy hanging in the balance.

Aug 7: Capicons comic show

Capicons Comic Book & Pop Culture Con
Sun, August 7, 2011
10 am - 3 pm

Dunn Loring Volunteer Fire Hall,
2148 Gallows Rd, Dunn Loring, Virginia
Admission $3 - Kids FREE!

Open to the public from 10 am - 3 pm. Buy, sell & trade: Gold, Silver,Bronze Age comics; Indie & Modern comics, Publishers &Creators, TV & Movie Collectibles. Non-sport cards; Videos &DVDs; Horror/Sci-Fi; figures, toys; Star Wars & Star Trek memorabilia; original artwork, posters and other comic-related collectibles.


Directions to DLVFRD: 
Take I-495 (DC/Capital Beltway) to Exit 47A (Rt.7 West). Go 1/2 Mile, Left on Gallows Rd. 1 mile to 2148 Gallows Rd

============================================================
To book a table, be added to our mailing list, request flyers, or for more info about our show, email info@capicons.com.

Thank you,
Jeff & Laura & Ed
Capicons

Maryland cartoonist Jim Hunt interviewed

Around Annapolis: Cartoonist makes 'best of' list for 7th straight year
By DIANE M. REY, For The Capital
Published 08/05/11
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/news/can/2011/08/05-22/Around-AnnapolisCartoonist-makes-best-of-list-for-7th-straight-year.html

Post spotlights Krazy Kat

Krazy Kat and the Art of George Herriman
Published: August 5 2011http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/krazy-kat-and-the-art-of-george-herriman/2011/07/11/gIQAqZf1wI_story.html

update: The Denver Post credits this to Dennis Drabelle.

CBS News on Civil War medicine

Civil War medicine: 37 pieces of history

Today's soldiers enjoy sophisticated medical care, from Medevac helicopters that function like flying hospitals to advanced surgical techniques and bionic limbs. Things were different for Civil War solders. There were no antibiotics, pain control was poor, and surgeons focused not on rebuilding or replacing injured limbs but on sawing them off. Want to take a peek back in time 150 years and see what that world was like? Keep clicking to see 37 images from the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and the National Library of Medicine...

Read more: http://www.cbsnews.com/2300-204_162-10008746.html

Bruce Guthrie's pictures from Comic-Con posted

Bruce Guthrie writes in 

I finally got through the pictures from Comic-Con and posted them on the site at http://www.bguthriephotos.com .

PR: Heroclix Tournament Saturday August 6th at Beyond Comics

Beyond Comics Heroclix Tournament... Saturday August 6th  1:00pm to 5:00pm     400pts   Captain America   $2 Entry Fee Prizes: Red Guardian LE for the top 2 and 1 for fellowship.        Check Out Our Event on FaceBook  At Beyond Comics 5632 Buckeystwon Pike Frederick, MD 21704       (301) 668-8202

USA Today on Batman's Adam West

Adam West celebrates 45 years of 'Batman'
By John Geddes, USA TODAY August 4 2011
http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/2011-08-04-Adam-West-looks-back-on-45-years-of-Batman_n.htm

Washington Times on Borders closing's effects on manga

Borders' demise signals trouble ahead for manga
By Noah Berlatsky
The Washington Times August 4, 2011
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2011/aug/4/chain-reaction/

President Obama's comics appearances

Bully blogs on President Obama's comics appearances in  Will the Real Comic Book President Please Stand Up?

Thanks to Comics Reporter for original spotting.

Smurfs in Rehobeth Beach

Spotted last week - Smurfs toys at Rehobeth Beach's Browse-about bookstore.

That darn Clay Jones

Cartoonist should bone up on weather history

Timothy M. Payne 8/4/2011

http://www.fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2011/082011/08042011/642628

Amazing Spider-Man 666 features local stores

Big Planet Comics has a lot of copies left of the variant cover that has the name of the comic book store put in where the Lizard (not in the comic) and Spider-man are fighting. It's $3.99.

Beyond Comics also ordered ones for its stores - here's a misleading article about it -

Comic book store in Frederick becomes 1st to be featured on cover of Amazing Spider-Man
    IKE WILSON  The Frederick News-Post
Columbus, IND Republic August 04, 2011
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/2ea35f1b8a654748abbd88842460e9e9/MD--Comics-Store-Spider-Man/
 

Washington Post blogs on new Spider-Man

MILES MORALES & ME: Why the new biracial Spider-Man matters
By Michael Cavna and David Betancourt
Washington Post Comic Riffs blog August 4 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/miles-morales-and-me-why-the-new-biracial-spider-man-matters/2011/08/04/gIQABzlGuI_blog.html#pagebreak

Sorry, Peter Parker. The response to the black Spiderman shows why we need one
By Alexandra Petri
Washington Post ComPost blog August 3 2011
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/compost/post/sorry-peter-parker-the-response-to-the-black-spiderman-shows-why-we-need-one/2011/08/03/gIQAViObsI_blog.html