Kid’s Comic Con 2009
March 24, 2009 by Jim Salicrup
Filed under author appearances, events
Every year, for the past few years, Papercutz has been at the two biggest comicbook conventions in the United States — Comic Con International: San Diego, out on the West Coast, and New York Comic Con, right here on the East Coast. As much as we love these super-mega-comic-cons, we also enjoy attending the much smaller Kids Comic Con in the Bronx. Held at Bronx Community College, the convention is small enough that you can experience most of the programming and spend lots of time talking to the guests, in a very casual environment. This is the third Kids Comic Con (I’ve been to ‘em all), and I’ll be there to have a great time talking about my favorite comics and graphic novel publisher. If you’re in the neighborhood, why not drop by and say hi? Here’s all the official info:
THE KIDS COMIC CON 2009 IS COMING!
FUN, ADVENTURE AND EXCITEMENT FOR ALL AGES
(and it promotes learning, thinking and reading, too!)
Hey kids (and parents! And teachers! And comic fans! And, yeah, you at the computer, too!), the KIDS COMIC CON 2009 is right around the corner! That’s right, The KIDS’ COMIC CON 2008 went so well that we’re doing it again! Get ready for fun, fantastic guests, and action — all for kids! (Okay, parents are allowed to have fun, too.) Most exciting is that’s there are more things for kids to do than at last year’s con!
The KIDS COMIC CON 2009 is set for April 25th at Bronx Community College (181st Street & University Avenue, Bronx, NY 10453). And yep, even though the economy is struggling like Superman surrounded by Kryptonite, the KIDS COMIC CON 2009 is still free for children 17 and under (and hey, Mom and Dad, its just $5 for you — making the KIDS COMIC CON one of the best entertainment values around).
KCC creator and founder Alex Simmons, writer for Archie, Scooby-Doo and oh, so much more, said he’s especially excited about this year’s KIDS COMIC CON because of all that’s happened since the first-ever KCC in 2007. “One of the guests at that con was Jay Williams, a representative of the humongous New York City Comic Con. He was so thrilled with our KIDS COMIC CON he asked if I would help redesign the Kids Day at the NYCC to incorporate what we do at the KIDS COMIC CON. In 2008 and 2009, along with others, we did that, and helped expand what was offered to hundreds of kids.” he said.
One of the added benefits of having worked with the NYCC is that Simmons and other volunteers organizing the KIDS COMIC CON were able to improve and expand on workshops that will be offered at KCC 2009, which will be here in just a few short weeks.
“Our primary goals at the KIDS COMIC CON are to promote reading and creativity in kids’ lives,” Simmons said. “Now more than ever it is imperative that we supply kids with a continuous flow of positive ideas, skills, and outlets for their thinking as well as self-esteem building activities, like creating from their own imaginations. No matter what path a kid’s life takes, having a solid habit of reading and being able to think, synthesize ideas, and come up with new concepts or fresh ways of looking at things will help them succeed. That’s what we do here, and it’s fun, fun, fun for all!”
Events scheduled for the KIDS COMIC CON 2009 include:
10 a.m.: Welcome—Alex Simmons, MC
Intro to convention events & First raffle
Marketplace & Kids’ Art Gallery Opens
10:30 AM - Kids Emotes Drawing Competition — On the convention floor children will be given a chance to win a prize by drawing their favorite Emote character.
11:00 to 11:45 PM –How To Have Fun Reading Comics — Peter Gutierrez will lead a workshop for educators, and parents on how to make using comics in an educational way, fun for all concerned.
11 AM – 6 PM: Kids’ Corner: where kids can sit and read comics.
11:30 AM -12:15 PM: He Really Is An Alien? Join author Marc Nobleman as he reveals how two teenage boys created one of the greatest comic book icons in the world. Marc will share a few great tales and images from his book, “BOYS OF STEEL,” the exciting inside story of Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel the creators of Superman!”
11:30 AM – 5 PM: Portfolio Review Crew.
All day, professional writers, illustrators, and editors will review students’ portfolios (artwork) to give them tips on how to improve their work.
11:30 a.m. – 12 PM: Youth Workshop A – Triangles, Circles, and Squares, Oh My! Is a fun introductory class in drawing kooky comics book characters by starting with ordinary shapes. Artist: Neil Numberman, illustrator of JOEY FLY, PRIVATE EYE.
11:45 AM -12:30 PM: Professional Workshop I
The ABCs of Comics and Graphic Novels: What are they and what is their value to children past, present, and future? (Panelists: TBA)
12 PM – 1 PM: Where the Action Is, Part 1 – Young people learn how the pros put so many dynamic poses and so much motion into drawing characters.
12 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Youth Workshop B – Get A Clue! This fun and clever workshop will show kids how to write and draw mystery comics, complete with suspects, clues, a climatic capture. The program is lead by Fiona Robinson, creator of THE 3-2-3 DETECTIVES AGENCY book
12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. The Art of Making Comics 101, an introductory class in creating simple and wonderful comic book characters, lead by artists Andrew Arnold, illustrator of the fun book, ADVENTURES IN COMICS.
12 – 2 PM – LIVE MAGICIAN
1 PM – 2 PM – Motion Potion: The Magic of Animation – A panel and demo on cartoon shows and animation with our special guest SCOTT GIMPLE, creator/producer of Disney’s Fillmore.
1:30 p.m. – 1:45 PM: Professional Workshop II — Comics in the Classroom. Participants will discuss benefits, methods, and curriculums for using comics in the classrooms and libraries to support understanding of academic subjects. (Panelists: To be announced.)
2 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Toon Books Readers Theater Performance. See one of the Toon Books come alive with a performance by Geoffrey and Leigh.
2:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Youth Workshop – Star Ships and Cadillac’s. Learn some of the tricks to drawing cool vehicles, weapons, and diabolical machines.
2:30 – 3:15: Toon Book Reheals for Kids presentation
2:30 – 3:15: Make Mine Manga. This a wonderful introductory class in how to create Manga style comics led by artist Yali Lin.
2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: SPECIAL EVENT — on the convention floor. TBA.
3 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: All Age Workshop– ARCHIE’ WAY – Join this members of Team Archie (old and new school) as they show how one of America’s longest running icons can be fun, fresh, and educational! New stories, looks, and plenty surprises.
3:00 – 4:00 PM: Give it Some Color! A profession artists and colorist will teach students some of the tricks of the trade in the wonderful world of coloring comics! (Artist: TBA.)
3:15 – 3:30: Toon Books Performance by Kids
3:30 PM – 5:15 PM: Youth Workshop F – The Art of Making Comics
The Art of Making Comics 101, an introductory class in creating comics. (Artists: TBA)
3 PM – 3:30 PM: SPECIAL EVENT — on the convention floor. TBA.
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.: Professional Workshop III – The ABCs of Comics. What are they, and what is their value to children past, present, and future? This time the emphasis will be on the FUTURE of comics, literacy, and kids. (Panelists: TBA)
6 p.m. Closing Remarks
* (Schedule subject to change up to 24 hours before the convention opens.)
Simmons also noted that excitement is building on both sides of the KIDS COMICS CON. “At our first KIDS COMIC CON, artists, writers, and creative folks from all aspects of the comic industry were impressively generous with their time, but many found themselves energized by the excitement and enthusiasm of our kids. And since then word has spread. This year they know what to expect and so many have told me they can’t wait to see the kids again,” he said.
Comics pros and publishers already committed to this year’s con include:
Archie Comics (Mike Pellerito, Fernando Ruiz, Tito Pena, Fred Mauser, etc.)
Soriah Chauvel, cartoonist on CAPTAIN KC!
Peter Gutierrez, writer
Brian Leung of Kidjutsu
Janna Miroshima of Diamond Kids Group
Dave Roman, of Nickelodeon Magazine
Raina Telgemeier, artist on Scholastic’s Babysitter Club graphic novel
James Sherman, illustrator
Andrew Arnold, illustrator of Adventures in Cartooning!
John Gallagher, illustrator, creator, publisher of …Boy
Danny Fingeroth, writer
Maurice Waters and ECBACC
Kerry Milliron and Random House for Kids
Ali Kokmen, and Random House Del Rey (manga)
Kyle & Liz Baker
Fiona Robinson, creator of The 3-2-3 Detectives Agency book (Abrams)
Christina Siravo, children’s book illustrator
Michael Wright, editor DC Comics
Ashanti Freeman, indy artists
Emotes
Jessica Weiss, tween publisher of the comic, Geezerville.
Samuel Vera, artist, publisher, creator of “Alien in My Toilet”
Marc Nobleman, author of BOYS OF STEEL about the creators of Superman
Ray Felix, artist, indy artist & publisher
Jim Salicrup, editor-in-chief of Papercutz
Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art (MOCCA)
Joe Staton, illustrator of Scooby Doo and so many other comics
Yali Lin, illustrator (Manga)
Dave MacDonald, creator of Hamster Sam Comics
Neil Numberman, illustrator of Joey Fly, Private Eye, from First Second Books
Scott Cunningham, writer of kids’ comics for Archie, DC, etc.
Phyllis Novin, inker for Bongo Comics
PalOOza Toys
Mark Mariano, creator, artist of Happloo comic book series
Reggie & Dionne Byer, creators of Kidz of the King Comics
Kevin Pyle, artist
Ed Mouzon, illustrator
Gary Camp, illustrator
Rich T., illustrator, and teaching artist
For information on how to donate time, money, or books to support the Kids’ Comic Con, write to Alex Simmons at: Alex@SimmonsHereAndNow.com
A Few Thoughts on Tough Times…
March 16, 2009 by Jim Salicrup
Filed under Papercutz Blog
This is just a quick message to let you know that all of us at Papercutz are painfully aware of the current state of the world’s economy. Even though I will continue to let you know about all the latest Papercutz developments here and on the “Watch Out For Papercutz” page in the back of all our graphic novels, we know that for many of our fans these are very difficult times.
That’s why I want to mention to everyone that most of our Papercutz graphic novels are available at most public libraries, as well as at many school libraries. As much as we want our line of graphic novels to be as successful as possible, we understand that at times like these, families are faced with tough choices – and food and shelter must always come way before spending hard-earned dollars on movies, video games, or graphic novels. So, if you, or your family, are struggling to make ends meet, keep in mind that you can always go to your local library and check out DVDs and many graphic novels for free.
And for you fortunate folks not hit by hard times, checking out Papercutz titles from your local library is a great risk-free way to sample Papercutz graphic novels that you may not have tried yet.
Of course, if you’ve picked-up HARDY BOYS Graphic Novel #16 “Shhhhhh!” by Scott Lobdell, writer, and Paulo Henrique, artist, you already know that Papercutz is a big supporter of libraries. Not only do we see that Frank and Joe’s mom, Laura Hardy, is a librarian, but we also see her introduce President Barack Obama, in a surprise cameo appearance, and include a snippet from his real-life pre-presidential speech to librarians. We included a link to the speech in question, but unfortunately that link has expired. To read an article by then-Senator Barack Obama based on that speech, go to:
http://www.ala.org/ala/alonline/resources/selectedarticles/obama05.cfm
In the meantime, everyone here at Papercutz is working extra hard to ensure that we’re delivering the best value we possibly can in every comicbook and graphic novel we produce. We also wish everyone the strength, confidence, and courage to get through the many difficult days ahead.
In the Beginning…
February 26, 2009 by Jim Salicrup
Filed under Papercutz Blog
It’s funny, last Saturday I showed up at the doorstep of a couple of friends’ home for a party they had invited me to. Unfortunately, it turned out that I was a full day late — the party was the night before. I can’t begin to tell you how embarrassed I was, yet my hosts were kind enough to invite me in for dinner. In the end we all had a really wonderful time.
That’s kinda how I feel right now. The Papercutz blog has already been up and running for a few days, and I’m nowhere to be found! Which is also very embarrassing because I’m the Editor-in-Chief of Papercutz, the graphic novel and comics publishing company started by publisher Terry Nantier and me.
But, I hope I can make up for lost time and bring you up-to-date on Papercutz and help get this party started!
As I said, Terry and I started Papercutz, and it’s been one of the greatest experiences of my life! I mean, what comicbook fan wouldn’t be thrilled to start up an all-new comicbook company? I’ve loved comicbooks as far back as I can remember, and I’ve been lucky enough to, believe it or not, to be working in the amazing world of comics since I was 15 years old.
But a lot has changed since I started working at Marvel Comics back in 1972. For one thing, there are far more comics being produced exclusively for adults, and a lot less being created for readers of all-ages. Back then, almost all comics were suitable and fun for all ages, and kids and adults could enjoy many of the very same comicbooks. Well, a big part of Papercutz’s mission is to produce comics in that great all-ages tradition – in other words, everyone’s invited to the Papercutz party!
So, as your host, allow me to introduce you to just a few of the Papercutz people that help create these incredible comics and graphic novels…
In no particular order, there’s Sarah Kinney and Stefan Petrucha, the husband and wife writing team responsible for keeping Nancy Drew, Girl Detective supplied with fresh new mysteries. There are sixteen NANCY DREW graphic novels out now, and each one captures the spirit of the mystery-obsessed teen sleuth perfectly. I’ve been fortunate enough to know Stefan since we were both kids living in the Bronx, in New York City. We dreamed about creating comics, and now we get to do just that! Stefan’s also busy writing all sorts of great Young Adult fiction series as well. I strongly recommend Timetripper. It’s the tale a teenage boy who can sort of travel between time. But, honestly, any book with Stefan’s name is sure to be brilliantly written.
Bringing Nancy to graphic novel life is artist Sho Murase, working with 3D CG and color artist Carlos Jose Guzman. Sho’s background is in animation, but she’s evolved into a top comics artist blending American and Japanese styles into something totally new and exciting. Together they’ve brought a style and look to Nancy Drew that has helped make this one of our top-selling, and most critically acclaimed series. Although beloved by female fans of all ages, not so surprisingly, Nancy has a large following of loyal male readers, also of all ages, as well.
Scott Lobdell, is the well-known comics writer that took over Marvel’s top-selling UNCANNY X-MEN title after Chris Claremont originally left the series. Talk about having big shoes to fill! Scott has already done a great job introducing himself on his blog, that there’s little left for me to say, except that Scott has always been a real true friend. We first met when he was breaking in at Marvel Comics, and I’ve always known he was destined for greatness. Scott has done it all, everything from movie screenplays to creating TV series, and we’re so lucky that he still manages to find time to chronicle the all-new continuing adventures of the Hardy Boys for us. With Paulo Henrique drawing the Undercover Brother’s exploits, the series is looking more exciting than ever. And I can say with total confidence, the best is yet to come from this talented team!
Greg Farshtey, BIONICLE author and expert, also does a great job of introducing himself, and although we haven’t known each other very long and we’ve only worked together on his terror-tale “Murder M.A.I.D.” for TALES FROM THE CRYPT #6, I have tremendous respect for him. He’s created a universe for the BIONICLE series that’s as fantastic as it is impressive. Collecting his BIONICLE stories, beautifully illustrated by Carlos D’Anda, Randy Elliot and, Stuart Sayger, as a Papercutz graphic novel series has turned out to be one of our best decisions ever, as BIONICLE is currently our best-selling title. Our heartfelt thanks to the many loyal BIONICLE fans.
Well, there’s still many more folks to introduce you to, such as the creators responsible for our TALES FROM THE CRYPT and CLASSICS ILLUSTRATED titles, but I’ll wait till next time, and hope that many of them will simply pop up here and introduce themselves.
In the meantime, I better get back to work, for as much fun as creating these titles may be, there’s also such a thing as deadlines, a few are demanding my attention right now, so I gotta go. But please, enjoy this opportunity to interact with us at Papercutz. Tell us what you like, and what you don’t like. We’re here to listen. We want this to be a party that you’ll want to come back to over and over again!
