Not a good way to end out the year. Another legend dies.....Eartha Kitt, who rose from South Carolina cotton fields to become an international symbol of elegance and sensuality, has died at the age of 81 of colon cancer on Christmas day.
a self-proclaimed "sex kitten" famous for her catlike purr, was one of America's most versatile performers, winning two Emmys and nabbing a third nomination. She also was nominated for several Tonys and two Grammys.
Her career spanned six decades, from her start as a dancer with the famed Katherine Dunham troupe to cabarets and acting and singing on stage, in movies and on television.
When her book "Rejuvenate," a guide to staying physically fit, was published in 2001, Kitt was featured on the cover in a long, curve-hugging black dress with a figure that some 20-year-old women would envy. Kitt also wrote three autobiographies.
Once dubbed the "most exciting woman in the world" by Orson Welles, she spent much of her life single, though brief romances with the rich and famous peppered her younger years.
Her first album, "RCA Victor Presents Eartha Kitt," came out in 1954, featuring such songs as "I Want to Be Evil," "C'est Si Bon" and the saucy gold digger's theme song "Santa Baby," which is revived on radio each Christmas.
In 1996, she was nominated for a Grammy in the category of traditional pop vocal performance for her album "Back in Business." She also had been nominated in the children's recording category for the 1969 record "Folk Tales of the Tribes of Africa."
Kitt also acted in movies, playing the lead female role opposite Nat King Cole in "St. Louis Blues" in 1958 and more recently appearing in "Boomerang" and "Harriet the Spy" in the 1990s.
To me, she was Catwoman on "Batman", the '60's series starring Adam West, replacing Julie Newmar who originated the role.
She was once quoted as saying "Generally the whole entertainment business now is bland," in a 1996 Associated Press interview. "It depends so much on gadgetry and flash now. You don't have to have talent to be in the business today."
Kitt was plainspoken about causes she believed in. "You send the best of this country off to be shot and maimed," she told the group of about 50 women. "They rebel in the street. They don't want to go to school because they're going to be snatched off from their mothers to be shot in Vietnam."
In 2000, Kitt earned another Tony nod for "The Wild Party." She played the fairy godmother in Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Cinderella" in 2002.
As recently as October 2003, she was on Broadway after replacing Chita Rivera in a revival of "Nine."
She also gained new fans as the voice of Yzma in the 2000 Disney animated feature "The Emperor's New Groove.'"
Kitt was born in North, S.C., and her road to fame was the stuff of storybooks. In her autobiography, she wrote that her mother was black and Cherokee while her father was white, and she was left to live with relatives after her mother's new husband objected to taking in a mixed-race girl.
An aunt eventually brought her to live in New York, where she attended the High School of Performing Arts, later dropping out to take various odd jobs.
By chance, she dropped by an audition for the dance group run by Dunham, a pioneering African-American dancer. In 1946, Kitt was one of the Sans-Souci Singers in Dunham's Broadway production "Bal Negre."
Kitt's travels with the Dunham troupe landed her a gig in a Paris nightclub in the early 1950s. Kitt was spotted by Welles, who cast her in his Paris stage production of "Faust."
That led to a role in "New Faces of 1952," which featured such other stars-to-be as Carol Lawrence, Paul Lynde and, as a writer, Mel Brooks.
While traveling the world as a dancer and singer in the 1950s, Kitt learned to perform in nearly a dozen languages and, over time, added songs in French, Spanish and even Turkish to her repertoire.
"Usku Dara," a song Kitt said was taught to her by the wife of a Turkish admiral, was one of her first hits, though Kitt says her record company feared it too remote for American audiences to appreciate.
Song titles such as "I Want to be Evil" and "Just an Old Fashioned Girl" seem to reflect the paradoxes in Kitt's private life.
Over the years, Kitt had liaisons with wealthy men, including Revlon founder Charles Revson, who showered her with lavish gifts.
In 1960, she married Bill McDonald but divorced him after the birth of their daughter, Kitt.
For years, Kitt was unsure of her birthplace or birth date. In 1997, a group of students at historically black Benedict College in Columbia, S.C., located her birth certificate, which verified her birth date as Jan. 17, 1927. Kitt had previously celebrated on Jan. 26.
The research into her background also showed Kitt was the daughter of a white man, a poor cotton farmer.
"I'm an orphan. But the public has adopted me and that has been my only family," she told the Post online. "The biggest family in the world is my fans."
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Another Death
Majel Barrett Roddenberry, wife of Star Trek creator Gene Rodenberry, passed away early morning on December 18th after a short battle with Leukemia in her Bel-Air home, surrounded by family and friends. Roddenberry was 76 years old. She began her acting career in the 1950's with roles in such popular shows as "Leave it to Beaver," "Bonanza" and "The Lucy Show; but it was her numerous roles in the legendary Star Trek franchise that fans came to know and love her. Roddenberry had featured roles in almost every Star Trek television and film entity and became an iconic figure within the fan community.
Her roles included Nurse Chapel in Star Trek: The Original Series, Lt. M'ress in Star Trek: The Animated Series, Lwaxana Troi in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine, and the voice of the USS Enterprise computer in almost every incarnation of the series. However, it was the love affair between her and the late Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry that earned her the title "The First Lady of Star Trek." Over the course of their more then quarter-century love affair, she became not only Gene's partner, but also his creative muse. Majel helped Gene expand the Star Trek universe and was an integral part of its continued legacy after his death, working on Earth: Final Conflict and Andromeda.
I also found out that she is going to be the voice of the computer one last time in the new Star Trek movie out next year.
It is reported that she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her son Rod Roddenberry and family friends.
While I never had the pleasure of meeting her, I did meet their son (did an interview with him at the SDCC) and my condolences go out to him as the only surviving member of the Rodenberry family.
Her roles included Nurse Chapel in Star Trek: The Original Series, Lt. M'ress in Star Trek: The Animated Series, Lwaxana Troi in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine, and the voice of the USS Enterprise computer in almost every incarnation of the series. However, it was the love affair between her and the late Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry that earned her the title "The First Lady of Star Trek." Over the course of their more then quarter-century love affair, she became not only Gene's partner, but also his creative muse. Majel helped Gene expand the Star Trek universe and was an integral part of its continued legacy after his death, working on Earth: Final Conflict and Andromeda.
I also found out that she is going to be the voice of the computer one last time in the new Star Trek movie out next year.
It is reported that she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her son Rod Roddenberry and family friends.
While I never had the pleasure of meeting her, I did meet their son (did an interview with him at the SDCC) and my condolences go out to him as the only surviving member of the Rodenberry family.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
You shall be Punished!
Only if you don't go and see the new Punisher movie. I liked it. I really liked it. That says alot seeing as how I was going into the movie expecting not to like it. Thomas Jane (who was born to play The Punisher was quoted as saying that he was "waiting for a good script" to make the sequel) which tells me that this movie didn't have a good script. So this movie had to work twice as hard to win me over. It did.
Now yes the story was pretty basic. Punisher kills some guys, he makes a mistake and then kills more guys to make up for that mistake. They throw in Julie Benz just so they can have a woman (IE: Heart) in the movie.
Even tho I loved it, most people passed on it. One of the 50 worst openings of all time (well, since they kept track of this sort of thing).
The two main problems I had for this movie is 1) the Actor was just not suited for the role. Even tho he only did one out of the three movies, Thomas Jane will always be Frank Castle to me (much like Linda Carter and Christopher Reeve.) and 2) it had a '90's feel. So much so that The Punisher could just walk up and down New York City in full Punisher Gear and no one would bat an eye. It's something that would fit right in a movie made 10+ years ago, but not here.
So overall, if you like humor, violence and a 90's feel, you'll like this movie. I give it an 8.
Now yes the story was pretty basic. Punisher kills some guys, he makes a mistake and then kills more guys to make up for that mistake. They throw in Julie Benz just so they can have a woman (IE: Heart) in the movie.
Even tho I loved it, most people passed on it. One of the 50 worst openings of all time (well, since they kept track of this sort of thing).
The two main problems I had for this movie is 1) the Actor was just not suited for the role. Even tho he only did one out of the three movies, Thomas Jane will always be Frank Castle to me (much like Linda Carter and Christopher Reeve.) and 2) it had a '90's feel. So much so that The Punisher could just walk up and down New York City in full Punisher Gear and no one would bat an eye. It's something that would fit right in a movie made 10+ years ago, but not here.
So overall, if you like humor, violence and a 90's feel, you'll like this movie. I give it an 8.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
The Spirit
No, not this Spirit. I'm talking about the Christmas Spirit.
As most of you know, I am a HUGE Power Rangers fan. But before Amy Jo Johnson donned her pink tights, there was a guy called Pee Wee.
Speaking of Power Rangers....
Happy Holidays!!!
As most of you know, I am a HUGE Power Rangers fan. But before Amy Jo Johnson donned her pink tights, there was a guy called Pee Wee.
Speaking of Power Rangers....
Happy Holidays!!!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
what is on my mind
"Don't rest on your Laurels", most entertainers say. "Keep it fresh", I have also heard. So how can I do those things when I need sponsors to bring back the radio show? I am still looking into the podcast and (as long as the website is fully updated by then) I plan to try to get some funds at the NYCC.
I never have been a salesman (which isnt that good of a thing when selling myself is important to get some sponsor $$) but I have to really up my game if I want to continue on my little adventure. I set out to get my book published, and it is out. I set out to go to the SDCC, and I went. So now I have to be as equally set to get some bocu bucks in order to bring the show back and keep the momentum going. Any thoughts/suggestions?
I never have been a salesman (which isnt that good of a thing when selling myself is important to get some sponsor $$) but I have to really up my game if I want to continue on my little adventure. I set out to get my book published, and it is out. I set out to go to the SDCC, and I went. So now I have to be as equally set to get some bocu bucks in order to bring the show back and keep the momentum going. Any thoughts/suggestions?
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
NYCC vs Big Apple
When I was in High school, I used to frequent a comic shop in Flushing Queens. Back then it was a big deal going to one of those places. Normally I got my comics at the newsstand by my school. Cut to a few (well, many) years later and we had Michael Carbanaro (head of the Big Apple Con) as a guest on my radio show. Turns out that he was the owner of the very same comic book store I had gone to as a kid! During that show, I found out that b/c of the great convention debacle of (I believe) '96 he founded the Big Apple cons. The aforementioned debacle was a convention at the Javits center (in NYC) that was closed down by the Fire Marshal. Mike took it upon himself to get everyone there (seeing as how he had everything he needed to start a con, people, vendors, "celebs") to go to a Church and start his own convention company that very same day. For years it was a monthly con which was out of a church (actually the basement) near Columbus Circle. Once every year he held the "National" convention which was in November at a bigger location. I got to "know" Mike and we have a business relationship. As time went on, he moved to a bigger and better venue (across the street from Madison Square Garden) which is where all of his cons are held to this very day. He has had big cons, little cons and all types in between. If you may remember I have had tables at some of those conventions. It's where I have met quite a few contacts from the comic book industry.
Then along came the NYCC. Reed Exhibitions who did Book conventions said "Hey, Comics are books. Hell, part of the word comic book is book! Let's do a convention just on that." Of course at the time, they were unsure how things would go. The city was un-cooperative "Comics are for kids, there is no money the be had" and since the other "big name" in comics never held a con there (Wizard) they rented a small portion of the Javits center out. They only had two headliners (the Wrestler Kane and Milla Jovovich) but they promoted the hell out of it.
It sold out. Not only did it sell out, people who already had tickets to get in couldn't. It was a huge disaster and a huge success at the same time. The second year, the show was double the size and it still sold out. Same for the third. It keeps getting bigger and better each year. This year is to be the biggest yet, and it is being predicted that it will surpass the SDCC (which will celebrate 40 years in 2009) in just a few more years. The con has gotten so big that they are asking for $65.00 for a 3 day pass at the door (cheaper if you buy it online).
I "know" the Head of the NYCC (Lance Fensterman) too. He also has been a guest on our show. Once again, we have a professional relationship going. So I have no "sides".
But it seems that while Mike has been puttering along and getting headliners like George Lazenby (for his most recent con). Lance gets Stephen King, Neil Patrick Harris, Grace Park and Brenden Frasier just to name a few. Now yes, Lance only has one show a year, and Mike Still has many, but Lazenby?
I think there is place for both cons in NYC. but Mike has to set up to the plate, and Lance has to remember the roots of comic book conventions.
Then along came the NYCC. Reed Exhibitions who did Book conventions said "Hey, Comics are books. Hell, part of the word comic book is book! Let's do a convention just on that." Of course at the time, they were unsure how things would go. The city was un-cooperative "Comics are for kids, there is no money the be had" and since the other "big name" in comics never held a con there (Wizard) they rented a small portion of the Javits center out. They only had two headliners (the Wrestler Kane and Milla Jovovich) but they promoted the hell out of it.
It sold out. Not only did it sell out, people who already had tickets to get in couldn't. It was a huge disaster and a huge success at the same time. The second year, the show was double the size and it still sold out. Same for the third. It keeps getting bigger and better each year. This year is to be the biggest yet, and it is being predicted that it will surpass the SDCC (which will celebrate 40 years in 2009) in just a few more years. The con has gotten so big that they are asking for $65.00 for a 3 day pass at the door (cheaper if you buy it online).
I "know" the Head of the NYCC (Lance Fensterman) too. He also has been a guest on our show. Once again, we have a professional relationship going. So I have no "sides".
But it seems that while Mike has been puttering along and getting headliners like George Lazenby (for his most recent con). Lance gets Stephen King, Neil Patrick Harris, Grace Park and Brenden Frasier just to name a few. Now yes, Lance only has one show a year, and Mike Still has many, but Lazenby?
I think there is place for both cons in NYC. but Mike has to set up to the plate, and Lance has to remember the roots of comic book conventions.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Sing along!
Now that I have figured out how to upload video, you just gotta listen to this:
I know this one has been on my Myspace for the longest, but here is a new one!
even tho these aren't my favorites, since this is a comic book blog I just have to put this one here:
and...since Bond just came out.....
of course you can see all his stuff on his you youtube channel by clicking the title of this post!
I know this one has been on my Myspace for the longest, but here is a new one!
even tho these aren't my favorites, since this is a comic book blog I just have to put this one here:
and...since Bond just came out.....
of course you can see all his stuff on his you youtube channel by clicking the title of this post!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Catching up
OK, from the looks of things, EVERYTHING should from the website will be up in time for the NYCC. I just spoke to my good buddy Lance Fensterman (who was a guest on the show and just happens to be the head of the NYCC) and I can get my press pass. The third webmaster turned out to be all talk and no action so I have to go back to my second webmaster. He had gotten backed up because of a campaign that he was running, but now that that is over, he has s'more free time.
If I get really lucky, I might be able to give away one pair of free passes to the NYCC if everything is updated in time.
Also, (for those of you who bought my comic and want to see the rest) I will be getting on top of my publisher so that all the issues and the trade will be out next year.
Wish me luck!
If I get really lucky, I might be able to give away one pair of free passes to the NYCC if everything is updated in time.
Also, (for those of you who bought my comic and want to see the rest) I will be getting on top of my publisher so that all the issues and the trade will be out next year.
Wish me luck!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
History
I have to say it. I just didn't think that the world was ready for a Black President. I guess "24" had it right all along.
Morgan Freeman being President is no longer Sci-fi.
I am speechless.
Congrats to Obama.
Morgan Freeman being President is no longer Sci-fi.
I am speechless.
Congrats to Obama.
Street Fighter: The Later Years
Just watch. It's 9 parts but totally worth it. As a bonus, I now have figured out how to post videos (at least the ones from youtube).
I have heard on the rumor mill that they will make more based off of the new Street Fighter IV game (which will be out soon).
I have heard on the rumor mill that they will make more based off of the new Street Fighter IV game (which will be out soon).
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
A shot in the arm
This past Sunday after watching Saw v (which was awesome BTW), I went to a "meeting" of some comic book guys. One of these guys waas an old High School friend of mine who wanted to make his own comic. He along with a couple of his friends had a weekly gathering that I was invited to. I have to say that it felt good sitting there and talking about comics, my company and their gaols and aspirations.
Now I have to admit, since the radio show went on hiatus, and then the economy went crazy, I haven't been as motivated as I should be regarding future cons that I should attend, pushing my publisher to put out the other books (and then the trade). But just being there, I got a little taste of motivation. Maybe these guys have the heart (and free time) that I have been looking for. Even if it is just me lending my expierence to help these guys out, that helps me get going again. Only time will tell. I plan to go again next Sunday.
Now I have to admit, since the radio show went on hiatus, and then the economy went crazy, I haven't been as motivated as I should be regarding future cons that I should attend, pushing my publisher to put out the other books (and then the trade). But just being there, I got a little taste of motivation. Maybe these guys have the heart (and free time) that I have been looking for. Even if it is just me lending my expierence to help these guys out, that helps me get going again. Only time will tell. I plan to go again next Sunday.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Let's do the Time warp
Just for fun, I decided to go back and take a look at my old blogs. I did a quick update so you can see a contrast between then and now. It's taking longer than I had expected. I'm up to my 9/11/07 entry. Take this time to go back and re-read somethings. post some comments while you are at it!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Different format/Different Versions
Now bear with me here. My thoughts are all over the place regarding this subject as I find that I usually am about 10-15 ewords ahead of myself so by the time I type "THIS" word, I'm already thinging about Linda Carter as Wonder Woman...
I was watching the New Spider-man cartoon the other day, and then while changing VHS tapes (Yes I still use thos things to watch my tv shows) I came across an episode of Fox's Spider-man Unlimited.
Seeing that made me think about a conversation I was having about Paul Dini and the various Batman carttons that have come out in the past 10+ years. I was telling him about the new Brave and Bold Batman cartoon that will be coming out soon.
Finally, I saw a commrecial for the new Hulk movie coming out on DVD.
All of these things mad me think that it would be a good subject to talk about on my little blog.
The comic books are the source material. That is where all the tv shows, movies, and yes even radio shows start out from. No Superman comic, no Christopher Reeves meeting Tom Welling. No Hulk comic, no Bill Bixby hitching a ride. But those things never happened in the comic.
In the comics, the Hulk has fallen from outer space to earth without a scratch on him, yet Lou Ferrigno falls (about) 800 feet and the Hulk died. What I am saying is that while all this stuff comes from the comics, some of it doesnt translate to a different format. Look at X-men. the movies ditched the spandex and it worked.
My question (if you still are with me after all that) is how far are we willing to go to accept the changes? At what point do we lose the "core" of the comic in lieu of the masses? I never read League of Extraoidary Gentleman, but I really liked the movie. Alot of fans of the comic HATED that movie.
I'll leave you with this disjointed thought...Just because it's popular, doesn't mean it's good.
I was watching the New Spider-man cartoon the other day, and then while changing VHS tapes (Yes I still use thos things to watch my tv shows) I came across an episode of Fox's Spider-man Unlimited.
Seeing that made me think about a conversation I was having about Paul Dini and the various Batman carttons that have come out in the past 10+ years. I was telling him about the new Brave and Bold Batman cartoon that will be coming out soon.
Finally, I saw a commrecial for the new Hulk movie coming out on DVD.
All of these things mad me think that it would be a good subject to talk about on my little blog.
The comic books are the source material. That is where all the tv shows, movies, and yes even radio shows start out from. No Superman comic, no Christopher Reeves meeting Tom Welling. No Hulk comic, no Bill Bixby hitching a ride. But those things never happened in the comic.
In the comics, the Hulk has fallen from outer space to earth without a scratch on him, yet Lou Ferrigno falls (about) 800 feet and the Hulk died. What I am saying is that while all this stuff comes from the comics, some of it doesnt translate to a different format. Look at X-men. the movies ditched the spandex and it worked.
My question (if you still are with me after all that) is how far are we willing to go to accept the changes? At what point do we lose the "core" of the comic in lieu of the masses? I never read League of Extraoidary Gentleman, but I really liked the movie. Alot of fans of the comic HATED that movie.
I'll leave you with this disjointed thought...Just because it's popular, doesn't mean it's good.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The future
While the whole world seems to be going to hell in a handbasket, I sit here trying to figure out how to get my radio show back on the air. Seems Brian wasn't able to get the skype thing going, so I'm back to looking to return to the airwaves. Last time I was in this position was during our first hiatus. That took forever to get past. I was hoping for a swifter return, but now I'm not so sure.
Every time I get just a little headway, something seems to put up a road block. I wonder if all companies went through this when they were starting out. The only good thing is that I can say that I know I can get myself back on the air and get my book in stores. Not sure how long that will take, but it will happen. I got this far, and I keep learning new things everyday to get me a little further.
The one thing that I know is that I have a quaility product, so that is my motivation to keep going.
Not sure what I'm going to do at the next con I go to. Without the radio show to promote, I'm not sure what (or how) to place on my table. Maybe I'll get the site re-launched before then and I'll have some new fliers ready to go....Might have to get my publisher to send me s'more copies of the book to sell.
Speaking of cons, I'm considering going to a con in Michigan (it would be all expenses paid, excluding transportataion to and from there). I'm just not sure if I'm ready for another drive across state lines so soon after SDCC.
Every time I get just a little headway, something seems to put up a road block. I wonder if all companies went through this when they were starting out. The only good thing is that I can say that I know I can get myself back on the air and get my book in stores. Not sure how long that will take, but it will happen. I got this far, and I keep learning new things everyday to get me a little further.
The one thing that I know is that I have a quaility product, so that is my motivation to keep going.
Not sure what I'm going to do at the next con I go to. Without the radio show to promote, I'm not sure what (or how) to place on my table. Maybe I'll get the site re-launched before then and I'll have some new fliers ready to go....Might have to get my publisher to send me s'more copies of the book to sell.
Speaking of cons, I'm considering going to a con in Michigan (it would be all expenses paid, excluding transportataion to and from there). I'm just not sure if I'm ready for another drive across state lines so soon after SDCC.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
September 30!
When I decided to make Tuesdaays "my" day to blog (Thursdays being he show day, and mon, wed, and fri being Hassan's day) I had no idea how many special "events" would fall on this day. Today is no different. It's my birthday! How old am I you ask? well, some say I can pass for 25, and others say that you are as old as you feel.
This Saturday, I felt OLD. I forgot my phone at my house and I needed to make a phone call, so I asked this girl to borrow her cell. She handed me a sidekick. I had no idea how to open it nor how to use it to make a call. I have never been computer savvy, but come on! Am I too old to figure out how to use a phone? So yes, technology got the best of me that day and I had to ask someone else for a real phone to use....
This Saturday, I felt OLD. I forgot my phone at my house and I needed to make a phone call, so I asked this girl to borrow her cell. She handed me a sidekick. I had no idea how to open it nor how to use it to make a call. I have never been computer savvy, but come on! Am I too old to figure out how to use a phone? So yes, technology got the best of me that day and I had to ask someone else for a real phone to use....
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Tree falls
You know the old saying (or is it a question?).... If a tree falls in a forest and no one is there to see it, does it make a sound? There are so many great things out there. and alot of people just don't know it exists. By the same degree, there is a whole lot of crap out there and it seems that alot of people know it's out there. I did a couple of great interviews. I did some pretty good CBN shows. I have tried (and failed) many times to get my own tv show.
They say you should write for yourself first and foremost. They also say know your target audinece. So I made a show that I enjoyed making. 99.9% feedback was positive. I wrote a book that I enjoyed reading. 80% positive (altho most have only read the preview issue).
So, I thought to myself, "let me see who has heard this tree fall.". Post on this thread, or e-mail me at mtorres@thecomicbooknovice.com and just say "Hey I read your book/listened to your show". Let me hear from you.
They say you should write for yourself first and foremost. They also say know your target audinece. So I made a show that I enjoyed making. 99.9% feedback was positive. I wrote a book that I enjoyed reading. 80% positive (altho most have only read the preview issue).
So, I thought to myself, "let me see who has heard this tree fall.". Post on this thread, or e-mail me at mtorres@thecomicbooknovice.com and just say "Hey I read your book/listened to your show". Let me hear from you.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
The 'ol College try
If you click the title of this week's little blog, it will take you to the MFC Forum. As I have mentioned before, I am not really a computer guy, so bear with me as I work on the forum. Hopefully it will become a little focal point for all my.... supporters to come and hang out.
I just started it up two days ago (what better time to have a forum than after the radio show goes off the air) and I think it is coming along nicely.
As with everything else, tell your friends about it and have them sign up. Comments suggestions are always welcome and best of all, it's free!
I just started it up two days ago (what better time to have a forum than after the radio show goes off the air) and I think it is coming along nicely.
As with everything else, tell your friends about it and have them sign up. Comments suggestions are always welcome and best of all, it's free!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Third time's the charm?
As some of you may have noticed, The site has been pretty stagnant since i got back from the SDCC. My second webmaster just got too bogged down wih (paying) work, kids and family life. Funny thing is that my first webmaster had the same problems! So now we are going to do another re-launch (hopefully by then the radio show will be bakk up and running) which should have all the interviews that I have done (and they're many still unaired). Also, I plan to (finaly) upload all the episodes from the first run of CBN so you can have (sort of) "new" content to listen to while we get back on track.
So keep checking back and let me know what you think! Also, any comments/suggestions/complaints about the site let me know so I can address them in the newest version of the site.
So keep checking back and let me know what you think! Also, any comments/suggestions/complaints about the site let me know so I can address them in the newest version of the site.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
A writer reads.
So I find myself here once again thinking about what to write about. I thought hey, howsabout a list of the books I am currently reading? So just off of the top of my head....
Incredible Herc
Ms. Marvel
New Warriors
Avengers: Initiative
Mighty Avengers
New Avengers
Iron Fist
Batman and the Outsiders
JLA
Black Canary/Green Arrow
Trinity
Gen 13
Womder Woman
Secret Invasion
Final Crisis
(I'm sure they're more, I'll keep on adding to the list)
What are you reading?
What should I be reading?
Incredible Herc
Ms. Marvel
New Warriors
Avengers: Initiative
Mighty Avengers
New Avengers
Iron Fist
Batman and the Outsiders
JLA
Black Canary/Green Arrow
Trinity
Gen 13
Womder Woman
Secret Invasion
Final Crisis
(I'm sure they're more, I'll keep on adding to the list)
What are you reading?
What should I be reading?
Thursday, August 28, 2008
The Four Marks
I was at a BBQ this past week and it came up in conversation that I was a fighter when I was little. I used to have a temper. Still do, but I have kept it in check since high school. It occurred to me that the people that I have met through my life only know one (or maybe two) of the four possible Marks that exist.
The first Mark which was from early childhood to around 1989. I had a temper, a clear view of right and wrong good and bad.
The second Mark wich started around 1988. I started to find my leadership role, and my personality.
The third Mark which came around 1999 is very contridicatory. I was depressed and full of life at the same time. Very witty and dedicated.
And the foruth and final Mark is the professional one. The private one.
Which Mark do you know?
How many "Yous" are there?
The first Mark which was from early childhood to around 1989. I had a temper, a clear view of right and wrong good and bad.
The second Mark wich started around 1988. I started to find my leadership role, and my personality.
The third Mark which came around 1999 is very contridicatory. I was depressed and full of life at the same time. Very witty and dedicated.
And the foruth and final Mark is the professional one. The private one.
Which Mark do you know?
How many "Yous" are there?
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
The Skype is the limit
We are trying to keep the show going (until we get some sponsors to go back live on the air), My co-host Brian Ferrera suggested we try and use skype to record a show online. Once we try that out we may start to update shows again. In the mean time I am looking for the tapes of our first time around of the CBN to upload that to the site.
My webmaster has been back-logged (guess he now understands the position the original webmaster was in) so the site is (very) slowly updating content. Hopefully it will all be up before the end of the year.
My webmaster has been back-logged (guess he now understands the position the original webmaster was in) so the site is (very) slowly updating content. Hopefully it will all be up before the end of the year.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
So I have been quiet for the past few days (well, week really). The show is on hiatus, but I think we might be able to do just podcasting soon. The coverages from the past two cons are being edited and (very slowly) being uploaded to the site. The book is out, and I have submitted it to Image comics and am looking into a few more places to see if I can get picked up again. The guys at Dark Elf Designs are ok with that based on our conversations (and since one of the heads of the company is inking the book, he will still get some $$).
It's weird haveing another Thursday with no show to do. Hopefully some of the potential sponsors will pick us up and we can go back on the air. Last time it took a couple of years before we were back. This time around I figure only (at most) a couple of months.
"What can I do to help?" you may be asking. Send me an e-mail, let me know if you have been listening to the show and what you think. If you want us back, let people know, spread the word, buy my book. Be active in our shows future.
It's weird haveing another Thursday with no show to do. Hopefully some of the potential sponsors will pick us up and we can go back on the air. Last time it took a couple of years before we were back. This time around I figure only (at most) a couple of months.
"What can I do to help?" you may be asking. Send me an e-mail, let me know if you have been listening to the show and what you think. If you want us back, let people know, spread the word, buy my book. Be active in our shows future.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
August 14 show
Tonight (August 14, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres, Hassan Godwin, and Terminal Press' Brian Ferrera as we discuss the role of the independent comic
What are your thoughts? Give us a call (631) 888-8811.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Support us!
What are your thoughts? Give us a call (631) 888-8811.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Support us!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Sponsors
Times are tough. While on my many road trips (all of them alot smaller than driving to California) I hear about (on the radio) how we are in a recession. Yet at the same time the Dark Knight is breaking box office records left and right and oil companies are making record profits. So I am puzzled as to if it is a good or bad time to be running a company, looking for sponsors.
Technically, I have been running this company since 2002 but we weren't "official" (or even incorporated) until 2006. Way back then I had a goal. To get my comic book out. Somewhere along the way I got a radio show. Now it's one of those things where I am the producer so It's my show. I pay for everything. To make money, I have to sell ad space.
When I first started, I focused on getting sponsors. That lasted me a little over a year. I had sponsors (a couple of them) but no one really knew about the show. This time around (after our lengthy hiatus) I focused on promotion of the show. I made a lot of contacts, did some really good interviews and gone to places I never thought I would be able to get to. So the word is out, but no sponsors.
I am rapidly approaching a point where we need a sponsor (or a couple of them) to keep the show going. The radio show is a good thing (everyone who has listened to it says they like it and the only complaint is that it is too short (better to be too short than too long). We are reaching an audience worldwide (according to the numbers on the site, people in Australia, and the UK are tuning in).
Now that the book (issue one at least) has been released, if the sales are good from that, I can use that money to keep the show going. So Buy my book, if you want to sponsor us, let me know, Promote your stuff. If you like what you see, support us.
Technically, I have been running this company since 2002 but we weren't "official" (or even incorporated) until 2006. Way back then I had a goal. To get my comic book out. Somewhere along the way I got a radio show. Now it's one of those things where I am the producer so It's my show. I pay for everything. To make money, I have to sell ad space.
When I first started, I focused on getting sponsors. That lasted me a little over a year. I had sponsors (a couple of them) but no one really knew about the show. This time around (after our lengthy hiatus) I focused on promotion of the show. I made a lot of contacts, did some really good interviews and gone to places I never thought I would be able to get to. So the word is out, but no sponsors.
I am rapidly approaching a point where we need a sponsor (or a couple of them) to keep the show going. The radio show is a good thing (everyone who has listened to it says they like it and the only complaint is that it is too short (better to be too short than too long). We are reaching an audience worldwide (according to the numbers on the site, people in Australia, and the UK are tuning in).
Now that the book (issue one at least) has been released, if the sales are good from that, I can use that money to keep the show going. So Buy my book, if you want to sponsor us, let me know, Promote your stuff. If you like what you see, support us.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Tonight's show
Tonight (August 7, 2008 ) LIVE(by popular demand) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres, our very own Movie Mike and Terminal Press' Brian Ferrera as we discuss the mega movie Dark Knight.
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned (but really who hasn't seen this movie?).
What are your thoughts? Give us a call (631) 888-8811.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Support us!
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned (but really who hasn't seen this movie?).
What are your thoughts? Give us a call (631) 888-8811.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Support us!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Buy my book!
Altho it says "preview issue" it really is the first issue of the comic. The only difference is that in the Graphic Novel the inside will be in color!
I know everybody and their dog has a comic and (I guess) each one is just as important as any other indy book. So why buy my book? I have been thinking about that question alot. I have read quite a few indy books. Some of them I have even bought. Some are good and some...not so good. I hope my book will turn out to be one of the good ones. I put my best into it and I am proud of it. I would be more proud of the Graphic novel, but I'll take this little victory.
Really haven't answered why you should by my book....
For one thing, it's finished. so the other issues will come out soon. It's $3.00 which is less than your standard fare of books these days. It's for all ages (well, pg-13 depending on how well you know your kid). but overall, the one thing I can say is that it's a fun read. So far the reviews I got were positive. I do plan to send out some issues for review. But since I am not the publisher, that is sort of up to Dark Elf Designs.
So it's my first book ever to see print, after 10 years and (basically) my entire life of waiting, I did it, so show some love and buy a copy. if you don't like it let me know, questions, comments tell me, and if you do like it spread the word!
click on the title for the link!
I know everybody and their dog has a comic and (I guess) each one is just as important as any other indy book. So why buy my book? I have been thinking about that question alot. I have read quite a few indy books. Some of them I have even bought. Some are good and some...not so good. I hope my book will turn out to be one of the good ones. I put my best into it and I am proud of it. I would be more proud of the Graphic novel, but I'll take this little victory.
Really haven't answered why you should by my book....
For one thing, it's finished. so the other issues will come out soon. It's $3.00 which is less than your standard fare of books these days. It's for all ages (well, pg-13 depending on how well you know your kid). but overall, the one thing I can say is that it's a fun read. So far the reviews I got were positive. I do plan to send out some issues for review. But since I am not the publisher, that is sort of up to Dark Elf Designs.
So it's my first book ever to see print, after 10 years and (basically) my entire life of waiting, I did it, so show some love and buy a copy. if you don't like it let me know, questions, comments tell me, and if you do like it spread the word!
click on the title for the link!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Just to sum up
Since I took a road trip and drove to the SDCC (NY to CA), I haven't been able to get the previous shows uploaded. Also, you may not have received my message about the show's topics. On the 17th of July, we talked about the Hellboy movie and my co-host Brian Ferrera insisted that we touch upon my book and the SDCC. The following week (live at the SDCC) I phoned in and just talked about My new book "The Chosen Few" that premiered there (I'll post the link where to buy it soon). Tonight (July 31, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Brian and I will be talking more about the SDCC.
If you were there, call in and share your stories.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
If you were there, call in and share your stories.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
2 hours
That is the amount of time that I am going to have to sit in the hotel lobby tonight. "Why is that?" you might ask. well, (as I would reply) seems that the Hero Envy guys (which I am sharing a room with) are dead to the world (deep asleep) and the guys who are helping me out are at a club about 90 miles away, which translates to 2 hours waiting.
So in these two hours, I will tell you about my little trip. As many of you know I left from New York right after seeing "Dark Knight" (which was...looks like, my calls to the room got thru. talk more when I get the chance!
EDIT: The story continues.
I am back home now (partially recovered) so let me finish what I was going to say back then (afterwards we go back to our bi-weekly post schedule). "Dark Knight" (which was pretty good). The movie was a little long in the tooth, but over all a good movie. Even me who was not a fan of the first one, (nor of this whole re-boot) can appreciate a well crafted movie. So I left about 2am (if my memory serves me correctly) and headed out on my 11 hour trip to Ohio. not a bad run, no traffic and with Janet (my GPS) along for the ride, it was a breeze getting there. I actually took my time in the drive (stopping at a mall and a few diners) because I was expected on Saturday morning as opposed to Friday evening. Even with all my stops and laxed driving (which set the pace for the entire trip) I got there at 9pm Friday night. Saw my niece and stayed at her dorm. Hanged out the next day with her and her BF, then headed out at 4pm Saturday (which gave me 74 hours to do a 30 hour trip). Keeping with driving only 10 miles above the speed limit and stopping for rests and food. I got to my hotel a whole day early (give or take a few hours). Had I known I was going to get there so early, I would have stopped by the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas (or one of the many casinos I saw along the way). Gas wasn't so bad except for New Mexico where it was $4.50/gal. And there were no tolls except for Oklahoma which had 2 $3.50 ones. I saw Desert (now that's a first), Cacti (another first in nature, I've seen them in stores) and a giant sign for "Howe (photo of a Native American) cars (or maybe it was motors)". When I say "photo of a Native American" that's what was on the sign between the "E" of Howe and the "C" (or "M") of cars (or motors). I thought "Wow that's funny!" (in a non-pc way). But I think they were serious. The only traffic I encountered was in Phoenix AZ and that only took up an hour or so of my trip.
So Monday I was a the hotel and got my room. Not a bad little place. I was hoping to share a room with my co-host Brian, but he wanted "alone time" with his wife (and former co-host) Jess. So A single room for me!
Tuesday I decided to keep the car an extra day, and picked up my friends (one on Wednesday). Then chaos happened. The con was crazy! I think it is too big for it's own good.
Six days later I was on a flight home. We'll talk about the con on this week's show.
So in these two hours, I will tell you about my little trip. As many of you know I left from New York right after seeing "Dark Knight" (which was...looks like, my calls to the room got thru. talk more when I get the chance!
EDIT: The story continues.
I am back home now (partially recovered) so let me finish what I was going to say back then (afterwards we go back to our bi-weekly post schedule). "Dark Knight" (which was pretty good). The movie was a little long in the tooth, but over all a good movie. Even me who was not a fan of the first one, (nor of this whole re-boot) can appreciate a well crafted movie. So I left about 2am (if my memory serves me correctly) and headed out on my 11 hour trip to Ohio. not a bad run, no traffic and with Janet (my GPS) along for the ride, it was a breeze getting there. I actually took my time in the drive (stopping at a mall and a few diners) because I was expected on Saturday morning as opposed to Friday evening. Even with all my stops and laxed driving (which set the pace for the entire trip) I got there at 9pm Friday night. Saw my niece and stayed at her dorm. Hanged out the next day with her and her BF, then headed out at 4pm Saturday (which gave me 74 hours to do a 30 hour trip). Keeping with driving only 10 miles above the speed limit and stopping for rests and food. I got to my hotel a whole day early (give or take a few hours). Had I known I was going to get there so early, I would have stopped by the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas (or one of the many casinos I saw along the way). Gas wasn't so bad except for New Mexico where it was $4.50/gal. And there were no tolls except for Oklahoma which had 2 $3.50 ones. I saw Desert (now that's a first), Cacti (another first in nature, I've seen them in stores) and a giant sign for "Howe (photo of a Native American) cars (or maybe it was motors)". When I say "photo of a Native American" that's what was on the sign between the "E" of Howe and the "C" (or "M") of cars (or motors). I thought "Wow that's funny!" (in a non-pc way). But I think they were serious. The only traffic I encountered was in Phoenix AZ and that only took up an hour or so of my trip.
So Monday I was a the hotel and got my room. Not a bad little place. I was hoping to share a room with my co-host Brian, but he wanted "alone time" with his wife (and former co-host) Jess. So A single room for me!
Tuesday I decided to keep the car an extra day, and picked up my friends (one on Wednesday). Then chaos happened. The con was crazy! I think it is too big for it's own good.
Six days later I was on a flight home. We'll talk about the con on this week's show.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
just a few mintes
I'm in the hotel lobby right now and I just want to mention (before the cab arrives) that I will be doing a live show from the San Diego con talking about my book which has arrived!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
And I'm here!
Made it a whole day early. It wasn't so bad ('cept the sunburn part). But I think that if I ever do it again, more stops and taking in the lay of the land. Now that I have a feel of time/distance I can make adjustments.
A few things to keep in mind for a trip like this: Sleeping bag (just in case you get too tired on the road and there is no motel/hotels near by). Sunblock (for your "drivers' arm"). Cheap styrofoam cooler lined with a plastic bag (for drinks and ice). These were things that I learned along the way.
A few things to keep in mind for a trip like this: Sleeping bag (just in case you get too tired on the road and there is no motel/hotels near by). Sunblock (for your "drivers' arm"). Cheap styrofoam cooler lined with a plastic bag (for drinks and ice). These were things that I learned along the way.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
First stop
Hey! I made it to Ohio. So far I got a nice sunburn on my left arm. The last time I had sunburn (in my adult life) was about 7 years ago when I shaved my head bald and I forgot to wear my hat in the sunduring a parade. The drive wasn't so bad but my phone stopped working so the complete loss of communication was interesting. I managed to stop by my niece's school Central State University in Ohio. I am going to hang out for a while. Then another 30+ hours of driving from here to California.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
July 17th show
In a few minutes, we here at "The Comic Book Novice" radio show will be talking about the new Hellboy movie!
9pm est live audio streaming at www.am1240wgbb.com
archives at www.thecomicbooknovice.com
9pm est live audio streaming at www.am1240wgbb.com
archives at www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
I'm off to see the wizard
Yep, I'm leaving tomorrow. Hopefully I'll be able to find Internet access across the country so I can post where I am and where I will be at. But first, I have to do my show and then see a Dark Knight Screening. Wish me luck!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Tickets? Tickets?
A few things I wanted to say before heading out after the show. What a week I had. I got pulled over twice and got two tickets one for forgetting my insurance at home and the other for having a busted head light. Then, my car's rack and pinion broke (good thing I'm taking a rental) and I have been running around doing last minute things. Such as making sure that we have plenty of stuff to hand out at the con and (fingers crossed) getting that book there!
A nice thing that I discovered was a GPS. Now for those of you who don't know, that is a little device that you plug into your car and it uses satellite technology to tell you where on the globe you are (hence Global Positioning Satellite. It talks (named her Janet) and I can program directions and routes. the best of all is that when I miss a turn., it gives me an alternate route so that I can get back on track. Tested it out a few times (which was on reason I got pulled over in the first place) and it is about 98% accurate as routes go.
A nice thing that I discovered was a GPS. Now for those of you who don't know, that is a little device that you plug into your car and it uses satellite technology to tell you where on the globe you are (hence Global Positioning Satellite. It talks (named her Janet) and I can program directions and routes. the best of all is that when I miss a turn., it gives me an alternate route so that I can get back on track. Tested it out a few times (which was on reason I got pulled over in the first place) and it is about 98% accurate as routes go.
Monday, July 14, 2008
To comic or not to comic
I had two conversations with my publisher and it is still up in the air that my book will be printed by the san Diego con. Fingers crossed.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
last year
I was talking with one of the guys that are going with me to the SDCC and the conversation came to the plans I had for this con a year ago. I had planned for a table, my 110 page graphic novel to be ready for sale, a bus tour from NY to Cali, and I had a completely different staff on the radio show.
I did plan to drive there and fly back, but beyond that, everything is completely different. I still am going, driving by myself (but flying back), I may or may not have a book ready in time, I have a small space on someone else's table, who just happens to be my new co-host Brian Ferrera from Terminal Press.
As I get closer (and more anxious) I wonder if I should go. I mean I am going, but should I go? I guess as long as I get some sponsors, it will be worth it.
I did plan to drive there and fly back, but beyond that, everything is completely different. I still am going, driving by myself (but flying back), I may or may not have a book ready in time, I have a small space on someone else's table, who just happens to be my new co-host Brian Ferrera from Terminal Press.
As I get closer (and more anxious) I wonder if I should go. I mean I am going, but should I go? I guess as long as I get some sponsors, it will be worth it.
2,900
Yep that is the approximate amount of miles I am going to be driving later this week. It's funny, the car rental is actually cheaper than a plane ticket (and my fear of flying makes it even more so) but the gas is going to kill me. I am flying back tho. That is because my need to get home as soon as possible trumps my fear of flying. All this is based on experience.
A few years ago I had an emergency and I had to drive 12 hours straight to Kentucky. Even tho I stayed there for a week, there was no way I could drive back home. Just wasn't happening...
So drive there, fly back.
A few years ago I had an emergency and I had to drive 12 hours straight to Kentucky. Even tho I stayed there for a week, there was no way I could drive back home. Just wasn't happening...
So drive there, fly back.
Friday, July 11, 2008
It's real now
While I was waiting for the publisher to get back to me about the status of the book (printing wise), I took it upon myself to go to staples and print me out a "demo" copy. Nothing spectacular, just copies of all the pages in regular paper (8 1/2 x 11). That way I can see how it would look in a book format. Not too shabby. I showed it to a couple of people and a few of them said "Wow, now it looks real.". I have to say that yes, it does look like it is actually going to happen. after 10 years (or so) my book will get to be published. Even if I don't have the book for SDCC, which I will be super upset, It will get printed (along with the other four issues). So now this con which was supposed to be all about the book, is not starting to look like the other cons where it is all about the show. Not sure how I feel about that yet.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
July 10th show
Tonight (July 10, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres, our very own Movie Mike and Terminal Press' Brian Ferrera as we discuss the movie Hancock.
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Check please!
OK, I just made my checklist and got my hotel info all straightened out.
Seems that I am going to be in two different hotels in the 6 days I'm going to be there. The good guys from Hero Envy are splitting a room with us from wed-sun morning. The "Sandwich days" (Tuesday and Sunday nights) are at another hotel equidistant from the convention center, just in the exact opposite direction.
So hotel: check
Car: check
Flight back home: check
book: ?
Have not heard from the publisher that they received my book.....
Seems that I am going to be in two different hotels in the 6 days I'm going to be there. The good guys from Hero Envy are splitting a room with us from wed-sun morning. The "Sandwich days" (Tuesday and Sunday nights) are at another hotel equidistant from the convention center, just in the exact opposite direction.
So hotel: check
Car: check
Flight back home: check
book: ?
Have not heard from the publisher that they received my book.....
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
And they're off!
Yep, the pages have been sent to the publisher. Now it's all up to him...well, him and the post office/mail delivery service... well, him, the post office/mail delivery service and the printer...well, him, the post office/mail delivery service, the printer, and the hotel....
Let's just say that there are many more steps to be had before I hold a printed copy in my hand in California.
Let's just say that there are many more steps to be had before I hold a printed copy in my hand in California.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Every period counts.
So I was sending the pages to the publisher and I noticed one of the pages was missing a period in one of the balloons "Holy Crap" I thought and I went to check all the other pages There were quite a few that were missing things things that I missed the first time around (then again I did just glaze over it to make sure it matched up what I had done previously) So I went back and went over each and every page with a fine tooth comb so that the finished product would be as professional as possible It is alot of extra work for my (re)letterer to go back in and add a period here and there but it really makes a difference As you can see here I purposely left out all the periods (and a few commas) and you can see just how important a little dot can be
For those who want a side by side comparison:
So I was sending the pages to the publisher, and I noticed one of the pages was missing a period in one of the balloons. "Holy Crap!" I thought and I went to check all the other pages. There were quite a few that were missing things. Things, that I missed the first time around (then again, I did just glaze over it to make sure it matched up what I had done previously). So, I went back and went over each and every page with a fine tooth comb so that the finished product would be as professional as possible. It is alot of extra work for my (re)letterer to go back in and add a period here and there, but it really makes a difference. As you can see here I purposely left out all the periods (and a few commas) and you can see just how important a little dot can be.
For those who want a side by side comparison:
So I was sending the pages to the publisher, and I noticed one of the pages was missing a period in one of the balloons. "Holy Crap!" I thought and I went to check all the other pages. There were quite a few that were missing things. Things, that I missed the first time around (then again, I did just glaze over it to make sure it matched up what I had done previously). So, I went back and went over each and every page with a fine tooth comb so that the finished product would be as professional as possible. It is alot of extra work for my (re)letterer to go back in and add a period here and there, but it really makes a difference. As you can see here I purposely left out all the periods (and a few commas) and you can see just how important a little dot can be.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
First time for everything
With the pages finished, I decided to add the cover for the second issue to the book. I called in a favor from artist Jamie Fay (you can see his work here http://windriderx23.deviantart.com/ and at Drumfish Productions).
There was some mis-communication between he and I and he send me a finished piece without a preliminary sketch first! Well, as it usually happens, I wanted a few changes and Jamie would have to re-draw everything to accommodate me. That's not fair to him since it was a favor to me, so I did it myself. I have to say, I have no idea how anyone can "draw" using a computer and a mouse. It's freaking hard and oh-so time consuming. Using Photoshop, I added/erased a line here and there and it took me about 2 hours to do (and that was without a break). More power to all of you who do it....
There was some mis-communication between he and I and he send me a finished piece without a preliminary sketch first! Well, as it usually happens, I wanted a few changes and Jamie would have to re-draw everything to accommodate me. That's not fair to him since it was a favor to me, so I did it myself. I have to say, I have no idea how anyone can "draw" using a computer and a mouse. It's freaking hard and oh-so time consuming. Using Photoshop, I added/erased a line here and there and it took me about 2 hours to do (and that was without a break). More power to all of you who do it....
Saturday, July 5, 2008
At long last!
Finally, I got the last two pages to my book. My (re)letterer is working on it right now. We might just make it to the SDCC after all! If I was computer savvy in any way shape or form, I'd post a few pages here...
I say (re)letterer because I actually lettered the whole book using the Comic Book Creator program. It is right up my alley, however the format isnt really compatable with any other program and when I "publish" the book (meaning that I save it and place it in a file). So I had my former webmaster go back in and letter the book again. As an added bonus, he even improved on it a bit making things fit better, So I am happy.
I say (re)letterer because I actually lettered the whole book using the Comic Book Creator program. It is right up my alley, however the format isnt really compatable with any other program and when I "publish" the book (meaning that I save it and place it in a file). So I had my former webmaster go back in and letter the book again. As an added bonus, he even improved on it a bit making things fit better, So I am happy.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Tickets please
So now that the car situation is taken care of, let's talk about the tickets. As most of you (should) know, the SDCC is not going to be selling ANY tickets on site. Meaning unless you buy them before, you are not getting in. As of right now, the web site says that they are all sold out.
I had planned to go to the SDCC since last year, and I sent in my application so I could get a table. It took them forever and I got turned down. Once I knew this bit of information, I immediatly bought 3 4 day passes (one for each of my "assistants" and one for myself. It was suggested that I try for a Press Pass. They are free, and they work just as well (if not better) than the 4 day passes. So I did. Just got my request under the deadline and now I had 6 passes! Refund time! Once again (with two of them anyway) I got in just under the wire and got my money back for them. However one person didn't get the info back to the SDCC guys in time so he decided to try and sell his pass on e-bay (which is legal). He got a couple of hundred for the pass where I only got my $75.00 back!
With my luck however, I bet that it wouldn't have worked out that way for me.
I had planned to go to the SDCC since last year, and I sent in my application so I could get a table. It took them forever and I got turned down. Once I knew this bit of information, I immediatly bought 3 4 day passes (one for each of my "assistants" and one for myself. It was suggested that I try for a Press Pass. They are free, and they work just as well (if not better) than the 4 day passes. So I did. Just got my request under the deadline and now I had 6 passes! Refund time! Once again (with two of them anyway) I got in just under the wire and got my money back for them. However one person didn't get the info back to the SDCC guys in time so he decided to try and sell his pass on e-bay (which is legal). He got a couple of hundred for the pass where I only got my $75.00 back!
With my luck however, I bet that it wouldn't have worked out that way for me.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
July 3 2008 show
Tonight (July 3rd 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program join Mark Torres and Brian Ferrara (Terminal Press) as they talk about the business end of comics.
want to share your thoughts? Feel free to call in! 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
want to share your thoughts? Feel free to call in! 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
2 cars, one guy
So I did go and see that Hancock screening after all. While there I met up with and talked to one of the 2 other guys who are going to go to the SDCC with me. We had to work out the problem of getting my car back to a place where I can pick it up that's near the airport so I can drive home when I get back. See, I am driving cross-country and flying back. So I am going to rent a car to go. I had three places to choose from to get the car rental. 1) the place closest to where I live, 2) somewhere near the airport (which happens to be where a few of my friends live, or 3) near the radio station. Turns out the radio station was cheapest and most convenient. That makes the plan, go to the station, get new car and drive out to Cali. I needed my friend to go to the station and get my car. the problem is that he couldn't find another driver. But that's all worked out now. It's a good thing that I have many friends...
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Arrested Development
Every time I write a blog, I try to be witty with my titles. Sometimes it works, sometimes, not so much. and then there are times when I just give up and put up a straight forward title.
Today (now follow me with this) I was thinking about my countdown. A song popped into my head. "The Final Countdown" by Europe. This song was played whenever Gob performed his magic act in the show Arrested Development. So there you go.
Today I am just organizing myself. Getting all the information in one place. If I'm up for it I might go to a free screening of Hancock. The thing is that it would be cheaper (because of gas and tolls) to just pay for the movie. Still no word from my publisher, which is bad. But he tells me that he has a special in with his printer which would give us a turnaround in a week.
Speaking of my publisher, he also happens to be inking the two pages that I need to finish the story. Turns out that he had a lawnmowing accident and sliced his had by sticking it into the blades....
Today (now follow me with this) I was thinking about my countdown. A song popped into my head. "The Final Countdown" by Europe. This song was played whenever Gob performed his magic act in the show Arrested Development. So there you go.
Today I am just organizing myself. Getting all the information in one place. If I'm up for it I might go to a free screening of Hancock. The thing is that it would be cheaper (because of gas and tolls) to just pay for the movie. Still no word from my publisher, which is bad. But he tells me that he has a special in with his printer which would give us a turnaround in a week.
Speaking of my publisher, he also happens to be inking the two pages that I need to finish the story. Turns out that he had a lawnmowing accident and sliced his had by sticking it into the blades....
Day one (30, 16 or 22 to go, depends on what you are counting)
So here we are in July. I just got home from my "day job" and I figured since there is no better way to document it (for me anyways). I decided to post each day till I leave for SDCC, when the SDCC starts and my SDCC wrap up show. Since they all are tied together, I figure why not do all three. So yes, you will be getting updates each day this month. Some will be bigger than others.
As of right now, I have two hotels that I am staying at, I have my flight to come back, I have my car rental reserved for the drive out there, and I have my press passes for the con.
Still waiting on two pages from my publisher so they can be lettered and then sent back to the publisher so he can have them for SDCC.
As of right now, I have two hotels that I am staying at, I have my flight to come back, I have my car rental reserved for the drive out there, and I have my press passes for the con.
Still waiting on two pages from my publisher so they can be lettered and then sent back to the publisher so he can have them for SDCC.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
June 26th show
Tonight (June 26th 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program I will be discussing the 6-issue story arc vs self contained issues.
What are your thoughts? Feel free to call in! 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
What are your thoughts? Feel free to call in! 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Before they were stars
While I was thinking about what to talk about this week, a little story came to mind from the Wizard Philly con. On Sunday I had a chance to walk around just a little bit and while talking to the Hero Envy guys (they were a guest on our show) I saw a HUGE line to see Katee Sackhoff. To the left of that was another huge line (unconfirmed) that was the second part of the initial line to see Katee. So basically, it was the line to wait on the line...
From where I was standing I could actually see Katee and how different she looked. She looked like "a star". She was surrounded by cameras, Wizard staff & "security". and tons of adoring fans.
Seeing her there reminded me of when I first met her. It was at an I-con (www.iconsf.org) just a few years back. The pilot of Battlestar Galactica had just aired a few weeks prior and she was scheduled to appear at a panel with (if I remember correctly) Dirk Benedict. You know as a "Two Starbucks" panel (although it could have been Richard Hatch). Anyway, Dirk (or Richard) didn't show and it was Katee all by herself. I hadn't seen the pilot but I had nothing better to do, so I stayed for the panel. There was about 20-30 people there (maybe).
She was very very nervous and she said that it was her very first convention. She was nice enough but she really didn't have much to say. I mean it was only a 2 hour pilot and she wasn't even sure that it was going to be picked up for a series. I'll never forget something that she said..."I also was in the latest Halloween (Resurrection) movie.".
Now I am a big Halloween fan and I still have no idea who she was in that movie....
From where I was standing I could actually see Katee and how different she looked. She looked like "a star". She was surrounded by cameras, Wizard staff & "security". and tons of adoring fans.
Seeing her there reminded me of when I first met her. It was at an I-con (www.iconsf.org) just a few years back. The pilot of Battlestar Galactica had just aired a few weeks prior and she was scheduled to appear at a panel with (if I remember correctly) Dirk Benedict. You know as a "Two Starbucks" panel (although it could have been Richard Hatch). Anyway, Dirk (or Richard) didn't show and it was Katee all by herself. I hadn't seen the pilot but I had nothing better to do, so I stayed for the panel. There was about 20-30 people there (maybe).
She was very very nervous and she said that it was her very first convention. She was nice enough but she really didn't have much to say. I mean it was only a 2 hour pilot and she wasn't even sure that it was going to be picked up for a series. I'll never forget something that she said..."I also was in the latest Halloween (Resurrection) movie.".
Now I am a big Halloween fan and I still have no idea who she was in that movie....
Thursday, June 19, 2008
June 19th show
Tonight (June 19th 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program join Mark Torres, Brian Ferrara (Terminal Press) and Movie Mike as they talk about The newest Hulk Movie.
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call. 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call. 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
You never know who is listening
So last week's show I had planned to talk about my experience at the Big Apple con. And I had some (light) dish to tell. Just as I was about to get into the nitty gritty of my story, the guy (nothing bad really) who one of my stories centred on actually called into the station. The show turned into an interview show. He was a good guest had lots of stories to tell. Guess maybe Lou Ferrigno might actually be tuning in!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
June 12th 2008 show
Tonight (June 12th 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program join Mark Torres and Brian Ferrara (Terminal Press) as they talk about this past weekend's Big Apple Convention.
If you were there and want to share your stories, feel free to call in! 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
If you were there and want to share your stories, feel free to call in! 1-631-888-8811
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Past Two weeks
I'm a little under the weather, so my thoughts might be all over the place.
So I did the Philly con, then the TV interview, then the Big Apple con. Boy am I beat. What didn't help was that right after the TV show, I got a pre-cold. So I was sick during last week's show and the Big Apple con this weekend. If not for circumstances I would have not shown. But I did and I'm glad I did. Despite all the chaos involved with a con, I get to meet my fans and comic book comrades. Also I get to meet some of my comic book heroes and (possibly) a celeb or two. So while both cons were a little on the slow side, I still had a good time.
The TV show...not so much. For some reason I got really nervous. I was fine before and afterwards, but during the taping...I hope it didn't show too much. Here's a little funny fact about the tv show (it went by so fast! I don't know why I would think that I would be longer than the radio show, but I did. I had so much to say and show but it kinda went by fast! And since I was sweating bullets, it didn't help much!
Now I get two days of rest and hopefully I will be all better for the show on Thursday.
So I did the Philly con, then the TV interview, then the Big Apple con. Boy am I beat. What didn't help was that right after the TV show, I got a pre-cold. So I was sick during last week's show and the Big Apple con this weekend. If not for circumstances I would have not shown. But I did and I'm glad I did. Despite all the chaos involved with a con, I get to meet my fans and comic book comrades. Also I get to meet some of my comic book heroes and (possibly) a celeb or two. So while both cons were a little on the slow side, I still had a good time.
The TV show...not so much. For some reason I got really nervous. I was fine before and afterwards, but during the taping...I hope it didn't show too much. Here's a little funny fact about the tv show (it went by so fast! I don't know why I would think that I would be longer than the radio show, but I did. I had so much to say and show but it kinda went by fast! And since I was sweating bullets, it didn't help much!
Now I get two days of rest and hopefully I will be all better for the show on Thursday.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
June 5 2008 show
Tonight (June 5, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres and Brian Ferrara (from Terminal Press) as talk about the Wizard Philly Con. If you were there and want to share your stories, feel free to call in!
If that's not all, we are giving away passes to the Big Apple Con (www.bigapplecon.com).
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
If that's not all, we are giving away passes to the Big Apple Con (www.bigapplecon.com).
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
I'm (not) ready for my close up!
I'm excited. Tomorrow I am going to be interviewed on TV. Yep finally I get my 15 minutes. Sure, it's only a cable access show, but this will be my first interview that will actually air! As an added bonus, it's going to be a whole 30 minutes dedicated to me! So really, it's not just an interview, I'm the feature! Good thing Brian is going to join me cause he's used to being on camera. As soon as the show airs (we are going to be live on tape) I'll post it here.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
May 29th show
Tonight (May 29, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres, Terminal Press's Brian Ferrara, and our own Movie Mike as we discuss the new Indiana Jones movie.
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Two two go (and then one more!)
As I type this I am just a few days away from two back to back cons. These two cons are different for me because I will actually have a table there. It really is a different thing to do a big con with and without a table. I find that you lose freedom, the stress level is about the same tho. I am still dealing with my friend in the hospital, so I am way behind schedule (as you can tell by this one day late big). Right now I am washing my "uniform", making my checklist, and burning CD's to sell (still have to cut and label them...). I am a little worried because these cons are going to be a preview for the BIG show of the SDCC. I had planned to have a preview of my book, but it's still being worked on and will be ready for SDCC. So this weekend..Wizard Philly. Next weekend, Big Apple. Wish me luck!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
May 22 show
Tonight (May 15, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres and my new co-host, Brian Ferrara (from Terminal Press) as we interview Professor Kent Worcester.
If that's not all, we are giving away passes to the Wizard Philly convention (www.wizardworld.com).
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
If that's not all, we are giving away passes to the Wizard Philly convention (www.wizardworld.com).
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Deal or No Deal
I went to traffic court yesterday (speeding ticket) and before court started, the officer pulled me aside (as he did with everyone else) and wanted me to plea guilty to a lesser charge. Now I had a case, but I wasn't 100% sure I would win it. So at that moment, I thought "So this is what they feel like on that show with Howie Mandel, take the deal, pay a lesser fine, no points, no hassle, or go to trial, risk it all in the hopes that I have a winning case."
I won!
Speaking of winning, we have a Deal of our own. "The Comic Book Novice" is having a "Gimme my Philly tix" contest. We are giving away free passes to the Wizard World Philly con (www.wizardworld.com), which is from 5/30-6/1. Head over to our site for details.
I won!
Speaking of winning, we have a Deal of our own. "The Comic Book Novice" is having a "Gimme my Philly tix" contest. We are giving away free passes to the Wizard World Philly con (www.wizardworld.com), which is from 5/30-6/1. Head over to our site for details.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
May 15th show
Tonight (May 15, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres and my new co-host, Brian Ferrera (from Terminal Press) as we interview Chugworth Academy co-creator Jamal Joseph (www.chugworth.com).
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Thursday, May 8, 2008
May 08 2008 show
Tonight (May 8, 2008 ) LIVE on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres, our very own Movie Mike and my new co-host, Brian Ferrera as we discuss the new Iron Man movie.
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
This will be a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be mentioned.
Have you seen the movie? What are your thoughts? Give us a call.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Todd and the basket of apples
There was this guy who wanted to eat some apples. He got a basket, filled it with apples sat himself under a tree in the park and started to eat them. Based on the size of the basket that he had, he got others (friends, family, even people he met passing by) to help him eat the apples.
As time went by, those other people (for many reasons such as they getting tired of eating apples, them being unable to continue eating apples, moving away, etc.) stopped eating apples with him. Yet others came along and ate apples with him.
some people ate alot of apples, some just had a few. Some even came along and decided to juggle bananas.
The guy thought that was odd. He asked those banana jugglers, "Why are you juggling bananas?"
"We wanted to help you eat the apples" they said.
"You can juggle bananas, but that is not helping me these eat apples." he replied
"Sure it is." they said.
"Well, if you want to sit with me and eat apples you are welcome to do that, but if you want to juggle bananas, please do it somewhere else." he told them.
"We are trying to help you but you are not letting us." they said.
"If you are not eating apples you are not helping. I just want to eat apples." He said.
"So you are saying that you prefer to just eat apples without us as opposed to let us juggle bananas with you?" they asked puzzled.
"Well, you don't want to eat apples, and I don't need banana jugglers....However if you decide to eat apples, then I'll be over there eating apples." he told them as he sadly walked back to his basket.
The guy's name?
It's not Todd!
When I started doing the radio show way back when I had Hassan Godwin, Jennifer Smith, and Todd Wright. Todd Wright had the right mix of old school comic book knowledge and passion for the craft. He was the first to leave the show. Circumstances just prevented him from making the long trek to the radio station each week. If he contacted me today and said "I can make it to the station." I'd put him back on the show in a heartbeat. But he never did.
The show must go on. So now it will be Myself and Terminal Press' Brain Ferrera as the show hosts. Hopefully I can find another female to take Jennifer's spot of the "novice" role.
As time went by, those other people (for many reasons such as they getting tired of eating apples, them being unable to continue eating apples, moving away, etc.) stopped eating apples with him. Yet others came along and ate apples with him.
some people ate alot of apples, some just had a few. Some even came along and decided to juggle bananas.
The guy thought that was odd. He asked those banana jugglers, "Why are you juggling bananas?"
"We wanted to help you eat the apples" they said.
"You can juggle bananas, but that is not helping me these eat apples." he replied
"Sure it is." they said.
"Well, if you want to sit with me and eat apples you are welcome to do that, but if you want to juggle bananas, please do it somewhere else." he told them.
"We are trying to help you but you are not letting us." they said.
"If you are not eating apples you are not helping. I just want to eat apples." He said.
"So you are saying that you prefer to just eat apples without us as opposed to let us juggle bananas with you?" they asked puzzled.
"Well, you don't want to eat apples, and I don't need banana jugglers....However if you decide to eat apples, then I'll be over there eating apples." he told them as he sadly walked back to his basket.
The guy's name?
It's not Todd!
When I started doing the radio show way back when I had Hassan Godwin, Jennifer Smith, and Todd Wright. Todd Wright had the right mix of old school comic book knowledge and passion for the craft. He was the first to leave the show. Circumstances just prevented him from making the long trek to the radio station each week. If he contacted me today and said "I can make it to the station." I'd put him back on the show in a heartbeat. But he never did.
The show must go on. So now it will be Myself and Terminal Press' Brain Ferrera as the show hosts. Hopefully I can find another female to take Jennifer's spot of the "novice" role.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
May 1 radio show
Tonight (May 1, 2008 ) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres and Hassan Godwin as we interview Joseph Caramanga (www.modeloperandi.net).
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Here's something I didn't realize till half way through this or I can't dance
Ever lost a day? Well, I did. I thought today was Tuesday. I got up and I was like I have so much to write about lets get to it. While writing, I turned on the TV and it said today was Wednesday. Now here is something that (might be) interesting. A little background if you will. My week usually works like this. Thursday-show, Friday-upload show to ftp (then my webmaster gets it) sleep late, Saturday thru Monday-Work at other job, Tuesday-blog, Wednesday-follow up/do stuff I didn't do. For the past few weeks, I have had Monday off. So I got an extra day to be at home. This week, got called in, so it felt like Monday was Sunday, and Tuesday was Monday. Now I didn't see any clues that it was Tuesday, When I watch TV ('cept for Judge Judy and The Price is Right (daytime version)) it's on tape. By sheer coincidence, I was watching shows that normally air on Monday (just a few months ago). So no clues there. Normally I try to catch the news (live, not on tape) but I was doing other things and I missed it, so no help there. So I figure I have to stop typing and go up to put this little note it.
We now return you to the regularly scheduled blog already in progress
Yes, I can't dance (well). I mean EVERYONE can "dance" (just move to the music). But dance like an average person? Not me. There are many things I can't do. yet the things I can do I think I do them quite well. In "Married....with Children" (one of my all time fav TV shows) there was one episode where Al told Kelly "don't try to do everything, find one thing and then do it better than anyone" (not sure if that was the exact quote). At any rate it was good advice. Many years later, I was talking to my favorite comic book writer Peter David and I asked him what was he best known for. He went on an to an extensive list of things that he is known for because he is known to many groups (Kids, Sci-fi guys, Star Trek guys, Comic guys). I said "wow, that's a lot of things" and he said "Jack of all trades, master of none". A few years after that, I was reading one of those books by the "Rich dad, Poor dad" guy (don't remember the name right now) and it said (once again not sure of the exact quote) "don't do everything yourself, if you need to do something you are not an expert on, surround yourself with those who are". So I see it as this. I can't run and maintain a website, get a webmaster. I am shy at times when meeting new people, hang out with those who are very outgoing. I can't do interviews, look good on camera, take photos, look for sponsors, edit video, hand out fliers, run a table all at the same time, but I can manage things, I can lead, I can keep a show moving. Sure it's not easy, and I can always do better, but while I can't dance, We sure as hell can move to the music!
We now return you to the regularly scheduled blog already in progress
Yes, I can't dance (well). I mean EVERYONE can "dance" (just move to the music). But dance like an average person? Not me. There are many things I can't do. yet the things I can do I think I do them quite well. In "Married....with Children" (one of my all time fav TV shows) there was one episode where Al told Kelly "don't try to do everything, find one thing and then do it better than anyone" (not sure if that was the exact quote). At any rate it was good advice. Many years later, I was talking to my favorite comic book writer Peter David and I asked him what was he best known for. He went on an to an extensive list of things that he is known for because he is known to many groups (Kids, Sci-fi guys, Star Trek guys, Comic guys). I said "wow, that's a lot of things" and he said "Jack of all trades, master of none". A few years after that, I was reading one of those books by the "Rich dad, Poor dad" guy (don't remember the name right now) and it said (once again not sure of the exact quote) "don't do everything yourself, if you need to do something you are not an expert on, surround yourself with those who are". So I see it as this. I can't run and maintain a website, get a webmaster. I am shy at times when meeting new people, hang out with those who are very outgoing. I can't do interviews, look good on camera, take photos, look for sponsors, edit video, hand out fliers, run a table all at the same time, but I can manage things, I can lead, I can keep a show moving. Sure it's not easy, and I can always do better, but while I can't dance, We sure as hell can move to the music!
Friday, April 25, 2008
How odd
For those of you that read this (and are privvy to my inner thoughts) you might have noticed that something was missing yesterday. You also may have noticed that I am posting on a Friday! Well, it seems that I goofed. Not the first time and it sure as hell won't be the last. On Thursdays, I have a simple ritual. I hit all the forums and social networking sites and post about the upcoming show. Then I head out to the station (sometimes leaving early to run some errands). At any rate, for some reason I didn't post here. Not that's it's an earth shattering event, nor that those who read this blog don't know I host a live show on Thursdays, but I like things to work a certain way. I could just go back and act like I did post on time, but hey, I thought why not talk about it. After all, that is what a blog is, a web log. So I am logging about my goof. At least I still have a 99.9% success rate on posting on Tuesdays!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
The Fight, The Con, and the Pope
So it's Tuesday! That means I get to tell everyone about my "week". For me the week starts on Thursday (because it's the day of the show). Anyway, after the show, I attended a special screening of "The Forbidden Kingdom". For those of you who don't know, that is the Jackie Chan/Jet Li martial arts epic. What can I say but the fight was great! The rest of the movie...not so much. It was..decent, and while 85% of the movie was by the numbers, there was one or two things that made me think that SOMEONE was thinking while making this movie.
During that time (of the show) our very own Belkis was attending the Stan Lee VIP event. As you can see from our main page, she snagged a photo with him. I was hoping for an interview, but he didn't stay that long at the event.
Friday, I went to the NYCC (actually, I went all three days). It was great. I got to meet up with alot of my contacts, made a few new ones and did a slew of audio and (Belkis did) video interviews (which are being uploaded to the site as I type this). I got to meet the head of the NYCC Lance Fensterman (he did the show for those of you who don't remember) and he was the coolest guy. I have to say that He does look VERY young, but handled everything like the pro he is. He said he was stressed, but he sure didn't show it.
The costumes were light (in comparison to the I-con a few weeks back) but were still plenty to see. My fave was these two hot chicks in a scantly clad version of Batman and Robin (never had my camera with me in the 4 times I saw them). I got to see Kal Penn and Neil Patrick Harris (who were cool enough to take a few minutes to sign stuff). I saw Stan Lee in the flesh (walked right by me) and a life-sized Hulk statue (which was awesome). Saturday night was the CAG awards party and I had a great time. I even recorded the entire event (which will be uploaded to the site soon). Oh, and there was the "free area" which was just for press, and professionals. It had free popcorn, soda, water, and (wait for it) air. That's wight they had an oxygen bar!
Now for my gripes (you know they had to come). First off, I was supposed to attend a press only Stan Lee panel which I missed (stupid me read the e-mail wrong). I had planed to meet (previous guest) Bill Baker (who I just couldn't find), and the thing that really got on my nerves were my co-hosts. As I have mentioned in the past these guys are working for free, and are taking time out of their lives for me, so really, who am I to complain? But, I asked both of them to bring and wear the CBN shirt so people can know who they are with. Belkis said that she read my text message wrong (and had planned to bring it until she got that message), and Hassan said that I should have told him before. Now it's not like I just sprung on the fact that the con was last weekend, they knew well in advance what I wanted. Maybe it's true what they say about surrounding yourself with people who will lift you up instead of dragging you down. "What's the big deal? It's just a shirt" you might say. Here's the thing. Yes, it IS just a shirt. So if I ask everyone to wear it, why aren't they? These things aren't free. and it is a sign of "not-caring-ness". Why do the job half-@$$ed? Obviously you are here for me, but also yourselves. When I'm at a job (a paying job) and they want such and such, sometimes I don't give 100% that's because I HAVE to be there. But these guys (supposedly WANT to be here). It's not all bad, they did help out by taking photos and doing the interviews so, it's not like they didn't do any work, and that I am not grateful (cause I am).
Oh, and the Pope was in the city!
During that time (of the show) our very own Belkis was attending the Stan Lee VIP event. As you can see from our main page, she snagged a photo with him. I was hoping for an interview, but he didn't stay that long at the event.
Friday, I went to the NYCC (actually, I went all three days). It was great. I got to meet up with alot of my contacts, made a few new ones and did a slew of audio and (Belkis did) video interviews (which are being uploaded to the site as I type this). I got to meet the head of the NYCC Lance Fensterman (he did the show for those of you who don't remember) and he was the coolest guy. I have to say that He does look VERY young, but handled everything like the pro he is. He said he was stressed, but he sure didn't show it.
The costumes were light (in comparison to the I-con a few weeks back) but were still plenty to see. My fave was these two hot chicks in a scantly clad version of Batman and Robin (never had my camera with me in the 4 times I saw them). I got to see Kal Penn and Neil Patrick Harris (who were cool enough to take a few minutes to sign stuff). I saw Stan Lee in the flesh (walked right by me) and a life-sized Hulk statue (which was awesome). Saturday night was the CAG awards party and I had a great time. I even recorded the entire event (which will be uploaded to the site soon). Oh, and there was the "free area" which was just for press, and professionals. It had free popcorn, soda, water, and (wait for it) air. That's wight they had an oxygen bar!
Now for my gripes (you know they had to come). First off, I was supposed to attend a press only Stan Lee panel which I missed (stupid me read the e-mail wrong). I had planed to meet (previous guest) Bill Baker (who I just couldn't find), and the thing that really got on my nerves were my co-hosts. As I have mentioned in the past these guys are working for free, and are taking time out of their lives for me, so really, who am I to complain? But, I asked both of them to bring and wear the CBN shirt so people can know who they are with. Belkis said that she read my text message wrong (and had planned to bring it until she got that message), and Hassan said that I should have told him before. Now it's not like I just sprung on the fact that the con was last weekend, they knew well in advance what I wanted. Maybe it's true what they say about surrounding yourself with people who will lift you up instead of dragging you down. "What's the big deal? It's just a shirt" you might say. Here's the thing. Yes, it IS just a shirt. So if I ask everyone to wear it, why aren't they? These things aren't free. and it is a sign of "not-caring-ness". Why do the job half-@$$ed? Obviously you are here for me, but also yourselves. When I'm at a job (a paying job) and they want such and such, sometimes I don't give 100% that's because I HAVE to be there. But these guys (supposedly WANT to be here). It's not all bad, they did help out by taking photos and doing the interviews so, it's not like they didn't do any work, and that I am not grateful (cause I am).
Oh, and the Pope was in the city!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
April 17 show
Tonight (April 17, 2008) Live! on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres and Hassan Godwin as we interview Keith Gleason, John Cimino and Michael Hopta
from Hero Envy (www.glintofhope.com)
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
from Hero Envy (www.glintofhope.com)
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Good news, bad news and TAXES!
As most Americans (since I know that other countries listen to my show) know, today is the final day to do your taxes in the USA. It's a big deal because (by my guesstimate) 40% of us haven't filed yet (yours truly being one of them!). But that is just the tip of the iceberg!
Cause I have REAL news. The week is the NYCC (duh) and because of which, I am getting a press pass to get in (all common knowledge). Because of said pass, I get to be on the list of press attending the event and because of that, people contact me for interviews!
Now for the bad news, I had to turn down an interview with (Mr. X-Files himself) Chris Carter. Seems they wanted to promote the panel he is doing at the con (on Friday) and wanted us to do an interview before hand. It was just too short of a notice and the fact that we had a guest on for this Thursday (and that it would have had to have been a pre-recorded interview) I had to say sorry, can't help you. It is the biggest interview we never had.
Cause I have REAL news. The week is the NYCC (duh) and because of which, I am getting a press pass to get in (all common knowledge). Because of said pass, I get to be on the list of press attending the event and because of that, people contact me for interviews!
Now for the bad news, I had to turn down an interview with (Mr. X-Files himself) Chris Carter. Seems they wanted to promote the panel he is doing at the con (on Friday) and wanted us to do an interview before hand. It was just too short of a notice and the fact that we had a guest on for this Thursday (and that it would have had to have been a pre-recorded interview) I had to say sorry, can't help you. It is the biggest interview we never had.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
4/10/08 show
Tonight (April 10, 2008) Live! on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres and Hassan Godwin as we talk about the I-con (www.iconsf.org). If you were there, feel free to call in and share your story.
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Tune in for details.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Tune in for details.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
I-conic trip?
While we will be talking about it on this week's show, I wanted to leave my thoughts on the I-con here first.
I have been going to I-con (off and on) for about 10 years. And I can tell that it has changed much over the years. The biggest thing I noticed is the rising price, the expansion of the over all con (after all, it uses the entire Stonybrook campus), the sheer number of costumes, and the decline of the "big" names. What makes up for it is that the "regulars" are always entertaining. Not for nothing some of the regulars are big names, but I find that even if Jim Lee was to come to a con for 10 years straight, it gets kinda dull.
As for content, You got your "new" movies such as "I am legend" and the old/"why am I wasting my time movies" such as "Journey to the Planet of Prehistoric Women". You got your gaming (video, Live-action role play, and card), sci-fi and literature stuff. I'm into the comics gaming (not so much) and the Movie and TV stars. Even tho there was plenty of things to do, there wasn't enough for me to do to warant me to go for the whole weekend, so I only went on Saturday.
For me, it was all about Peter David, Dwayne McDuffie, and Erine Hudson. Altho I didn't see Peter David, I had a great time on two Dwayne McDuffie panels, and I even got to interview him as well as Ghostbuster Ernie Hudson. Both audio interviews are already on the main site.
I have been going to I-con (off and on) for about 10 years. And I can tell that it has changed much over the years. The biggest thing I noticed is the rising price, the expansion of the over all con (after all, it uses the entire Stonybrook campus), the sheer number of costumes, and the decline of the "big" names. What makes up for it is that the "regulars" are always entertaining. Not for nothing some of the regulars are big names, but I find that even if Jim Lee was to come to a con for 10 years straight, it gets kinda dull.
As for content, You got your "new" movies such as "I am legend" and the old/"why am I wasting my time movies" such as "Journey to the Planet of Prehistoric Women". You got your gaming (video, Live-action role play, and card), sci-fi and literature stuff. I'm into the comics gaming (not so much) and the Movie and TV stars. Even tho there was plenty of things to do, there wasn't enough for me to do to warant me to go for the whole weekend, so I only went on Saturday.
For me, it was all about Peter David, Dwayne McDuffie, and Erine Hudson. Altho I didn't see Peter David, I had a great time on two Dwayne McDuffie panels, and I even got to interview him as well as Ghostbuster Ernie Hudson. Both audio interviews are already on the main site.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
4/3/08 show
Tonight (4/3/08) Live! on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join me, Mark Torres, Hassan Godwin and Belkis as we interview Cory J. Herndon (www.burningsea.com)
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Tune in for details.
Also free weekend passes to the I-con (www.iconsf.org). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Tune in for details.
Also free weekend passes to the I-con (www.iconsf.org). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
News!
So it turns out that Marvel Comics has approached me to write a sequel to the What if..? vol 2 #114 Which picks up right after the story left off (for those of you who don't know) the issue tells the tale of what would have happened if the Marvel Superheroes has stayed on the Secret wars world 25 years later.
We just got major funding! DC comics, along with Sony pictures have decided to become lifetime sponsors of "The Comic Book Novice" which means that we will be on every weekday night for one hour shows!
And...Superstar artist Al Rio, has agreed to re-pencil "The Chosen Few" (my comic which is due out in July) for a back end deal (meaning that he does the work for free to get a percentage of the profits).
APRIL FOOLS!!!!
Wait, I think I did that wrong....
We just got major funding! DC comics, along with Sony pictures have decided to become lifetime sponsors of "The Comic Book Novice" which means that we will be on every weekday night for one hour shows!
And...Superstar artist Al Rio, has agreed to re-pencil "The Chosen Few" (my comic which is due out in July) for a back end deal (meaning that he does the work for free to get a percentage of the profits).
APRIL FOOLS!!!!
Wait, I think I did that wrong....
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Hey look I'm the guest!
It may just be for a few minutes, But I got interviewed for a second time on a podcast! (the honor for my first interview goes to the crazee comics guys)I have been trying to figure out how to put the podcast in my blog, hopefully if you click the top link, it should take you there...
Thursday, March 20, 2008
3/20/08 show
Tonight (3/20/08) Live! on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join Me, Hassan Godwin, and Belkis as we talk to Lance Fensterman (www.nycomiccon.com)
In addition to that, we are giving away another weekend pass to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
In addition to that, we are giving away another weekend pass to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Just made it!
With all the things going on in my life I forgot today was Tuesday. I know how all of you out there are eagerly awaiting my random thoughts and insights. But hey as long as i get it in before midnight it counts!
So try this one on for size......
Person "A" goes into the future. For this purpose, he goes one hour into the future. The rules state that for the time that he is gone, he didn't exist in that time. Now let's say that when he arrives one hour into the future, he sees himself. The rules state that this means that he must have travelled through time again and arrived after he left but before he arrived within that hour span. So Person "A" figures that he has to travel back in time so he can meet up with his future self (person "B"). He does and waits till he meets himself from the future. Makes sense right?
Here's the kicker...let's say person "A" decides to take person "B" with him and he decided to leave him back in the past and travels back into the future and arrives after he had lef with person "B". The question that is bothering me is how can person "B" exist and not exist at the same time?
See person "B" is there in the future because person "A" left him there in the past. However, person "B" has to age, bceause his life is a continuous loop for that one hour. So if person "B" ages, he as to be all ages at the same time when person "A" gets him....
I just love time travel.
So try this one on for size......
Person "A" goes into the future. For this purpose, he goes one hour into the future. The rules state that for the time that he is gone, he didn't exist in that time. Now let's say that when he arrives one hour into the future, he sees himself. The rules state that this means that he must have travelled through time again and arrived after he left but before he arrived within that hour span. So Person "A" figures that he has to travel back in time so he can meet up with his future self (person "B"). He does and waits till he meets himself from the future. Makes sense right?
Here's the kicker...let's say person "A" decides to take person "B" with him and he decided to leave him back in the past and travels back into the future and arrives after he had lef with person "B". The question that is bothering me is how can person "B" exist and not exist at the same time?
See person "B" is there in the future because person "A" left him there in the past. However, person "B" has to age, bceause his life is a continuous loop for that one hour. So if person "B" ages, he as to be all ages at the same time when person "A" gets him....
I just love time travel.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
3/13/08 live giveaway ahow
Tonight (3/13/08) Live! on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join Belkis, and Your's truly as we have our re-scheduled interview with Author Chris Knowles (www.secretsun.com).
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the Wizardworld LA convention (http://www.wizardworld.com/) and a weekend pass to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the Wizardworld LA convention (http://www.wizardworld.com/) and a weekend pass to the New York Comic-con (www.nycomiccon.com). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Walking the line
As the convention season gets closer, I am starting to think about how to work a con (having a table, or doing interviews/networking) and be a fan at the same time. After all, I like going to cons, and I am a fan of many things they have to offer. But I also have a company to run. So I have to balance work and play. It's not as easy as one would think. I mean how do you choose between going to interview (let's say) Joe Quesada, and going to see a (let's say) Harlan Ellison and Peter David panel? When do you go to buy some comics/movies as opposed to handing out fliers? It's a little different when you are by yourself at a con (you stay at the table), but when you can do both, you should. After all, what is the point if going to a con if you are not going to enjoy it?
MFC-Studios is going to be at the I-con, the NYCC, The Big Apple con, the Wizard Philly con, and the SDCC in some way shape or form. And I plan to do as much as I can to promote the radio show, and have the best time going to panels, seeing movies, and meeting my favorite comic guys.
MFC-Studios is going to be at the I-con, the NYCC, The Big Apple con, the Wizard Philly con, and the SDCC in some way shape or form. And I plan to do as much as I can to promote the radio show, and have the best time going to panels, seeing movies, and meeting my favorite comic guys.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
3/6/08 show
Tonight (Live!) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join Hassan, Belkis, and Yours truly as we interview Mike Raub (www.comicmix.com).
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the Wizard World LA convention (http://www.wizardworld.com/). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
In addition to that, we are giving away another set of free 3-day passes to the Wizard World LA convention (http://www.wizardworld.com/). Call in to win.
Not in New York? Not a problem, we have live audio streaming online at www.am1240wgbb.com
9pm Eastern Standard Time
Missed a show? Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
30 seconds to spam
Just a few weeks ago, one of our sponsors pulled out. Not because of anything we did, just they stopped publishing their book. And for some reason, it seems like the shows after that we have even less time with the extra 30 seconds per show... Weird huh?
Another thing I want to mention is that on some forums, I have been accused of spamming. Of course the admins and mods (in most cases) defend me, I was just denied the ability to post on one forum because they said I would be advertising. How can I be spamming if it's a comic book radio show on a comic book forum and I am not selling anything?
any thoughts or comments?
Another thing I want to mention is that on some forums, I have been accused of spamming. Of course the admins and mods (in most cases) defend me, I was just denied the ability to post on one forum because they said I would be advertising. How can I be spamming if it's a comic book radio show on a comic book forum and I am not selling anything?
any thoughts or comments?
Thursday, February 28, 2008
2/28/08 show
Tonight (LIVE! ) on "The Comic Book Novice" Radio show, Join Belkis, Hassan and yours truly as we interview Artist/letterer/comic book creator Chris Giarrusso (www.chrisgcomics.com) on another giveaway show. In addition to Chris, we have passes to the Wizard LA con (www.wizardworld.com) and tickets to the Sci-fi play "Fight Girl Battle World" from www.vampirecowboys.com for FREE!
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
On your marks....
We here are in pre-con season and it looks like things are going quite well. We are set to have tables at the Wizard Philly Con, the "Summer Sizzler" at the Big Apple Con, and the SDCC. I (along with the rest of the crew) will be making appearances at the NYCC, the I-Con (www.iconsf.org) and maybe one or two more places.
The Book will be ready for the SDCC and may even have a "preview issue" to be debuted at an earlier con. Although as of right now it looks like I may team with another company and do a 5 issue run and then do the 115 page graphic novel.
Our 2008 Edition of the Best of Cd is on hold till Hassan can get a day off of work so we can record it. But once that is done we are all go to have them ready for the cons also
We are to have our ad in a few places (never hurts to get the word out) such as in Sam Vera's (www.crazeecomics.com) Doodie trade, Free Lunch Comic's (www.freelunchcomics.com) Sky Pirates, Wizard magazine, and in the program guides to the I-Con, and the play "Fight Girl Battle World" from Vampire Cowboys (www.vampirecowboys.com)
And best of all we will have tons of stuff to give away on the radio show. Not only do I have Wizard convention tickets to hand out, we have 3 day passes to the NYCC, I-Con, a free pair of tickets to "Fight Girl Battle World", and I hope to be able to get a few passes to give away for the SDCC and Big Apple Con too.
so let people know!
The Book will be ready for the SDCC and may even have a "preview issue" to be debuted at an earlier con. Although as of right now it looks like I may team with another company and do a 5 issue run and then do the 115 page graphic novel.
Our 2008 Edition of the Best of Cd is on hold till Hassan can get a day off of work so we can record it. But once that is done we are all go to have them ready for the cons also
We are to have our ad in a few places (never hurts to get the word out) such as in Sam Vera's (www.crazeecomics.com) Doodie trade, Free Lunch Comic's (www.freelunchcomics.com) Sky Pirates, Wizard magazine, and in the program guides to the I-Con, and the play "Fight Girl Battle World" from Vampire Cowboys (www.vampirecowboys.com)
And best of all we will have tons of stuff to give away on the radio show. Not only do I have Wizard convention tickets to hand out, we have 3 day passes to the NYCC, I-Con, a free pair of tickets to "Fight Girl Battle World", and I hope to be able to get a few passes to give away for the SDCC and Big Apple Con too.
so let people know!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
2/21/08 show
Tonight (LIVE) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program join Hassan, Belkis, Yours truly and Movie Mike as we talk about the movie Jumper.
As with all of our movie review shows, this will be a free flowing discussion, so spoliers may be mentioned.
In Addition to that, we will be giving away 2 FREE 3-day passes to the Wizard LA convention.
If you have seen the movie we want to hear from you! Listen in and call in!
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
As with all of our movie review shows, this will be a free flowing discussion, so spoliers may be mentioned.
In Addition to that, we will be giving away 2 FREE 3-day passes to the Wizard LA convention.
If you have seen the movie we want to hear from you! Listen in and call in!
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Feedback
This past Thursday I got a package. It was a self addressed stamped envelope containing an original comic and a letter. But it was more than that. It was a hand drawn comic from a kid. It kinda reminded me of my old comics I used to draw for myself. I was flattered. Without giving away too much (don't want him to think that I am giving away his secrets) it was about a superhero who stopped a bank robber. Not only is this the first package I have gotten, but the letter has such sincerity attached to it. I am honored. I wonder if Marvel gets stuff like this...
Thursday, February 14, 2008
2/14/08 show
Tonight (LIVE) on "The Comic Book Novice" special giveaway show, Belkis and Yours truly will be talking to Comic creator Brian Ferrara (www.terminalpress.com) as we give away another set of FREE 3-day passes to the Wizard LA Con (www.wizardworld.com)
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Steve Gerber
Another Death....
Seve Gerber. Best known as co-creator of the Marvel Comics character Howard the Duck.
Some little (well, little to me) known facts about Steve, He created the animated Thundarr the Barbarian cartoon, He was one of the founders of the Malibu Comics Ultraverse, co-creating Exiles, and he worked in television animation, working as story editor on the animated series The Transformers, G.I. Joe, and Dungeons & Dragons. Last year he was diagnosed with an early stage of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis which meant that he needed a lung transplant. while still working on a new DR. Fate comic, he died in a Las Vegas hospital from complications stemming from his condition.
What really hits home for me is that I went to his blog and he was allowed to use his lap top on the hospital. His final thoughts and words are...well, they are something to read. Just thinking about his mindframe during that time. it's just wow.... He was 60.
I can't say I was a "fan" but I enjoyed his run on The Sensational She-Hulk.
Seve Gerber. Best known as co-creator of the Marvel Comics character Howard the Duck.
Some little (well, little to me) known facts about Steve, He created the animated Thundarr the Barbarian cartoon, He was one of the founders of the Malibu Comics Ultraverse, co-creating Exiles, and he worked in television animation, working as story editor on the animated series The Transformers, G.I. Joe, and Dungeons & Dragons. Last year he was diagnosed with an early stage of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis which meant that he needed a lung transplant. while still working on a new DR. Fate comic, he died in a Las Vegas hospital from complications stemming from his condition.
What really hits home for me is that I went to his blog and he was allowed to use his lap top on the hospital. His final thoughts and words are...well, they are something to read. Just thinking about his mindframe during that time. it's just wow.... He was 60.
I can't say I was a "fan" but I enjoyed his run on The Sensational She-Hulk.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
2/7/08 giveaway show
Tonight (Live!) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Join Hassan, Belkis, and Your's truly as we interview Author/Designer Arlen Schumer (www.arlenschumer.com).
In addition to that, we are giving away 2 free passes to the Wizardworld LA convention (http://www.wizardworld.com/)
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
In addition to that, we are giving away 2 free passes to the Wizardworld LA convention (http://www.wizardworld.com/)
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Super Duper Tuesday
I may have mentioned this before, but during the course of the week, a lot of things come to mind to talk about, but when Tuesdays come along sometimes I draw a blank. But hey today is another day where I can just comment on the day. It's another one of those "special" days. We have the Giants parade and the media dubbed "Super Duper Tuesday" because of the elections. So I get two things to talk about.
First the Superbowl. Now I am not a "big time" football fan, I watch it occasionally (more when I was younger than I do now) but I know what's going on in the game. Now I was torn on who to root for. Peoople like the underdogs, but because of a past history with the 49'ers I didnt want them to win. However, I never had any love for the Patriots. Ever since '01 that team just didn't sit right with me. All that talk about dynasty. Then this year with all that 19-0 crap. Being undefeated aure makes one cocky. I hate cocky. So really (for me) this game was "a lesser of two evils". But even with all that, it was a good game. Close, could go anyway, last minute moves and plays. So in other words a good show. Go Giants!
Now for the election. Yes, this is just the primary but while no one else is gonna say it (we are just to "PC") but there is just no way the Democrats are going to win this one. I see it like this: what happened last election? Kerry had an early (big) lead. Word got out to the western states that he had a chance and might win. The "rest" of the nation was like "there is no way that is going to happen" and voted for Bush. I just don't think the "average" American is ready for a black man or a woman to be President. There I said it. Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think so.
First the Superbowl. Now I am not a "big time" football fan, I watch it occasionally (more when I was younger than I do now) but I know what's going on in the game. Now I was torn on who to root for. Peoople like the underdogs, but because of a past history with the 49'ers I didnt want them to win. However, I never had any love for the Patriots. Ever since '01 that team just didn't sit right with me. All that talk about dynasty. Then this year with all that 19-0 crap. Being undefeated aure makes one cocky. I hate cocky. So really (for me) this game was "a lesser of two evils". But even with all that, it was a good game. Close, could go anyway, last minute moves and plays. So in other words a good show. Go Giants!
Now for the election. Yes, this is just the primary but while no one else is gonna say it (we are just to "PC") but there is just no way the Democrats are going to win this one. I see it like this: what happened last election? Kerry had an early (big) lead. Word got out to the western states that he had a chance and might win. The "rest" of the nation was like "there is no way that is going to happen" and voted for Bush. I just don't think the "average" American is ready for a black man or a woman to be President. There I said it. Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think so.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
1/31/08 show
Tonight (LIVE!) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio show Join Hassan, Belkis, And yours truly as we interview Author Christopher Knowles (http://secretsun.blogspot.com/).
Listen in and call in!
Tonight 9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives at www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Listen in and call in!
Tonight 9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives at www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Now in our second consecutive year!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
The thing that no one saw...
On last weeks episode of "The Comic Book Novice" radio show we mentioned that the director of the movie "Cloverfield" Matt Reeves was quoted as saying (regarding the final shot in the aforementioned movie) "The thing about that shot is that almost nobody sees the shot, but once you see the shot and the thing in it, you'll never stop seeing it."
So with a little research, I found out what the hell he was talking about. I have yet to actually "see" the thing, but I'm sure to catch it eventually. If you click the title above it will take you to www.cloverfieldendingcredits.com where they explain the whole shebang. Basically at the end of the movie, "something" is shown dropping into the water by Coney Island. According to the site it was a satellite dropped into the ocean by the same company the lead guy was going to be VP of (what a connection!) as a viral marketing campaign (sort of like those "bombs" for the "Aqua Force" movie). Anyway the thing that they are promoting is a drink (slusho!) which made the monster (huh?) This was supposed to all be explained in the beginning of the movie (guess those 20 minutes were important after all!) as background chatter.....
So with a little research, I found out what the hell he was talking about. I have yet to actually "see" the thing, but I'm sure to catch it eventually. If you click the title above it will take you to www.cloverfieldendingcredits.com where they explain the whole shebang. Basically at the end of the movie, "something" is shown dropping into the water by Coney Island. According to the site it was a satellite dropped into the ocean by the same company the lead guy was going to be VP of (what a connection!) as a viral marketing campaign (sort of like those "bombs" for the "Aqua Force" movie). Anyway the thing that they are promoting is a drink (slusho!) which made the monster (huh?) This was supposed to all be explained in the beginning of the movie (guess those 20 minutes were important after all!) as background chatter.....
Thursday, January 24, 2008
1/24 show
Tonight (LIVE! ) on "The Comic Book Novice" Radio show, Join Hassan, yours truly (Belkis has the night off) as we discuss the movie "Cloverfield". Did you see it? We want to hear from you!
As with all of our movie review shows, this is a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be discussed.
9pm est www,am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
As with all of our movie review shows, this is a free flowing conversation so spoilers may be discussed.
9pm est www,am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
well...
I had planned to talk about something else today, but then Heath Ledger was found dead in an apartment owned by one of the Olsen Twins. He was 27. Holy crap! It's not just the fact that he was so young, but it came out of nowhere. It wasn't like he was a party guy or associated with drugs, but there he was (allegedly) naked in the room with pills around him. He was set to play the Joker in the Dark Knight movie. I am curious how this is going to affect the whole thing. The movie is due out this year, so I'm guessing that the principle footage was shot. This reminds me of when Donald Pleasance died during the 6Th Halloween movie. I made an earlier blog about death so I really don't have much more to add. So to his family, I feel your loss.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
1/17/08 show
Tonight (LIVE! ) on "The Comic Book Novice" Radio show, Join Belkis, Hassan and yours truly as we talk about Movies from Comics and TV.
9pm est www.am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
9pm est www.am1240wgbb.com
Archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
An important day in history
Another special day (I see a theme here). The is Martin Luther Kings B-day. When I was in school, it really was just another time when I had to write a report that I didn't want to do. But now, as I am older I can appreciate how important the man (and his dream) are. Everyone should take a look back at the man and history for a little inspiration. So thank you Mrs. King for having him!
And....On January 14, 2007 I met up with Jeff Lo (station manager at WGBB). It was then that we re-started our business relationship by me signing up for a years worth of radio shows. This week's Thursday will be our 52ND show back from my hiatus (2003). It's interesting how much has changed, yet after a long break alot stayed the same. With regards to the radio station that is. But hey! Now even they have a new website design.
I was hoping that my new website would be launched around this time (to commemorate the anniversary) but it looks like it will be ready at the end of the month (and that's just as good).
And....On January 14, 2007 I met up with Jeff Lo (station manager at WGBB). It was then that we re-started our business relationship by me signing up for a years worth of radio shows. This week's Thursday will be our 52ND show back from my hiatus (2003). It's interesting how much has changed, yet after a long break alot stayed the same. With regards to the radio station that is. But hey! Now even they have a new website design.
I was hoping that my new website would be launched around this time (to commemorate the anniversary) but it looks like it will be ready at the end of the month (and that's just as good).
Thursday, January 10, 2008
1/10/08 show
Tonight (LIVE!) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio show Join Hassan, Belkis, And yours truly as we discuss realism in comics.
What are your thoughts? Listen in and call in! Tonight 9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives at www.thecomicbooknovice.com
What are your thoughts? Listen in and call in! Tonight 9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives at www.thecomicbooknovice.com
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Vampire Cowboys
This past Saturday I went to a little place in brooklyn. It was a play. Well, more than than. I'd say it was a live performance. Actually 4 of them. The Vampire Cowboys as they call themselves, is a series of performances with a sci-fi fantasy element to it. Each month they show one part of each of the 4 on-going serials. Last week's show was part 4. Next month's will be part 5 (of 5). Once that is done (again according to the website) they will premiere new shows. So really these are one time performances.
So let me tell you a little about each show. I was about 10 minutes late for the first show, but it was still entertaining. It was a cast of 3 and it was set in the future in a college dorm. The leads were each trying to figure how they were going to have sex.
The second one was with a group of characters fighting demons in the south. One of which was a Blind amnesiac county singer and a girl who can only talk without speaking (another actress does her voice off stage)
The third show was about a desolate future out west where the hero refuses to carrry a gun and is searching for a valuable item which (of course everyone else is also)
And the last one was about an odd cast of characters involved in an alien invasion of moth women as they try to achieve immortality by reproducing.
It's good stuff.
So let me tell you a little about each show. I was about 10 minutes late for the first show, but it was still entertaining. It was a cast of 3 and it was set in the future in a college dorm. The leads were each trying to figure how they were going to have sex.
The second one was with a group of characters fighting demons in the south. One of which was a Blind amnesiac county singer and a girl who can only talk without speaking (another actress does her voice off stage)
The third show was about a desolate future out west where the hero refuses to carrry a gun and is searching for a valuable item which (of course everyone else is also)
And the last one was about an odd cast of characters involved in an alien invasion of moth women as they try to achieve immortality by reproducing.
It's good stuff.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
1/03/08 show
New year new show! Tonight (LIVE) on "The Comic Book Novice" radio program Hassan, Belkis and Yours truly
will be talking about comic book the new Aliens Vs Predator movie. As with all of our movie review shows, this will be a free flowing discussion, so spoilers may be mentioned. If you have seen the movie share your comments. Call in we want to hear from you!
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
will be talking about comic book the new Aliens Vs Predator movie. As with all of our movie review shows, this will be a free flowing discussion, so spoilers may be mentioned. If you have seen the movie share your comments. Call in we want to hear from you!
9pm EST www.am1240wgbb.com
archives @ www.thecomicbooknovice.com
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