>>>
|
Comics: Jim Aparo R.I.P. |
The Aparo Family has asked me to send this information out to all parties. It is with the deepest regret I have to inform you of the passing of the legendary Jim Aparo early Tuesday morning, July 19, 2005. Mr. Aparo, who was 72, died from complications relating to a recent illness. All Funeral arrangements will be a private ceremony for Family and Friends of Jim.Aparo, born in 1932, was primarily self-trained as an artist. After years of working in commercial fashion design in Connecticut, his first break in the comics field was with a comic strip called "Stern Wheeler," written by Ralph Kanna, which was published in 1963 in a Hartford, Connecticut newspaper for less than a year. In 1966, editor Dick Giordano at Charlton Comics hired him as a comic book artist, where his first assignment was a humorous character called "Miss Bikini Luv" in "Go-Go Comics." Over the next few years at Charlton, Aparo drew stories in many genres--Westerns, science fiction, romance, horror, mystery, and suspense.
Aparo was notable for being one of the relatively few artists in mainstream comics at that time to serve as penciler, inker, and letterer for all of his work. These tasks were typically divided between two or more artists.
In the late 1960s, Aparo moved on to National Publications/DC Comics, which is where he came to fame in the Comics Community. Originally starting at DC on the Aquaman title, he then moved on to also work on the Phantom Stranger and DC's horror titles.
In 1971, Aparo worked on his first Issue of Brave & The Bold. Issue 98 featured the Phantom Stranger teaming up with Batman. Beginning with Issue 102 Jim was then the regular artist on the series and provided pencils & inks on almost every issue from 102 until the end of the series with Issue 200. Jim's work on Brave and the Bold was his favorite work of his time at DC as he truly considered the series his "baby." Also during this period Jim did one of the seminal runs on The Spectre, where his realistic style made the Ghostly character truly come to life.
After the end of Brave and the Bold, Aparo was CO-creator for Batman & The Outsiders and also worked on the regular Batman and Detective Comics Series throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. most notably doing the Pencils on the "Death in The Family" storyline, which featured a phone-in vote deciding the fate of Robin II, Jason Todd.
Following a run on the regular Green Arrow Series, Aparo moved into semiretirement, contributing an occasional special or cover and doing a few private commissions before he eventually decided to move into full retirement.
He is survived by his wife Julie, his 3 children, his 4 Grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.
The Aparo family has asked that in lieu of Flowers or gifts, anyone wishing to honor Jim's legacy make a contribution to any worthy charity, as Jim believed that all charities were worth donating to.
For those wishing to send along their condolences and best wishes to the family, a P.O. Box has been set up for the family to receive cards. The address is:
THE APARO FAMILYThanks to all who have loved Jim's work and have supported his career.
P.O. BOX 28
NORWALK, CONNECTICUT 06852 - 0028
|
Random: Best Buy Free Fantastic Four Comic |
Best Buy Exclusive: Free Fantastic Four Comic Book
Wednesday, June 29, 2005 12:18:59 PM
For one week only, get a free Fantastic 4 comic book (a $14.99 value) with any in-store DVD purchase!
The book includes the classic Marvel Comic #62: This Man, This Monster as well as Fantastic 4 pinup art.
Fantastic 4 - See the trailer
On July 8, Marvel's first family of comic superheroes takes movie theaters by storm in a heart-pounding, live-action battle with the evil Dr. Doom.
The Fantastic 4 are: Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic, who can elongate his body; Susan Storm/the Invisible Woman, who not only can become invisible but can render other objects invisible; Johnny Storm/the Human Torch, who can shoot fire from his fingertips and bend flame; and Ben Grimm/the Thing, a hideously misshapen monster with superhuman strength.
Offer is good through 7/9/05. Minimum: 40 per store. No rainchecks.
|
Random: Human Fly film project details
|
Human Fly film project details
2005-02-28After some months of negotiation, The Foxglove Concern has secured the rights to the story of The Human Fly.
In the late 1970s, television viewers across North America were introduced to The Human Fly, a costumed, self-styled "superhero" who rode on the tail of jet liners. Never revealing his identity, the Fly claimed to be the survivor of an auto accident that took the lives of his wife and infant child. Bionically reconstructed, the Fly dedicated his life to a new purpose: accomplishing amazing feats of daring-do in support of children's charities.
For a short while, the Human Fly was famous, and became the hero of his own Marvel Comic ("The Wildest Superhero of All - because he's real!"). After an aborted attempt at jumping 23 school buses with a rocket-powered motorcycle at Montreal's Olympic Stadium, the Fly disappeared from view.
Tony is currently at work on a feature film screenplay combining elements of documentary and fiction that will reveal the bittersweetly comic true story behind The Human Fly.
|
Random: The Cure - Three Imaginary Boys
|
WHO NEEDS FLU SHOTS WHEN RHINO HAS THE CURE!
DATE: OCTOBER 26, 2004
Highly Anticipated Cure Reissue Campaign Begins With Expanded, Remastered THREE IMAGINARY BOYS December 7
LOS ANGELES - Twenty-five years after The Cure began their global pop invasion with their debut disc, THREE IMAGINARY BOYS, Rhino Records gives the album its first-ever U.S. domestic release with a deluxe two-disc edition loaded with previously unreleased tracks. THREE IMAGINARY BOYS will be available December 7 at all retail outlets and at www.rhino.com for a suggested retail price of $18.98.
THREE IMAGINARY BOYS (Dec 2004)
The album marks the kickoff to Rhino Records' revitalization of The Cure catalog. Each title will receive a sonic upgrade and be released as a deluxe double-disc set featuring the original album on one CD and numerous rarities on the other. In addition, each release will come with a 16-page booklet filled with photos and tour memorabilia from the personal archives of vocalist Robert Smith, as well as a track-by-track commentary and notes by U.K. music scribe Johnny Black.
Cure fans have long clamored for THREE IMAGINARY BOYS, an energetic 1979 U.K. debut which features "10:15 Saturday Night," "Grinding Halt," "Fire In Cairo," and a quirky rendition of Jimi Hendrix's "Foxy Lady." The band's debut U.S. album, Boys Don't Cry, featured many of the songs on THREE IMAGINARY BOYS along with singles like "Jumping Someone Else's Train" and "Boys Don't Cry." The Rhino reissue offers the original U.K. album with an added previously unreleased instrumental ("The Weedy Burton"), as well as a 20-track bonus disc which includes the additional tracks from Boys Don't Cry, previously unreleased studio and home demo versions, live renditions, and other curiosities. In total the package includes six previously unreleased songs, eight previously unreleased versions of songs, and 17 tracks never before available on CD.
Johnny Black's liner notes, which make use of extensive and exclusive interviews with Robert Smith, provide fascinating insight into the making of this classic album. One interesting story tells how The Cure managed to get the album recorded with virtually no budget: they simply snuck into Morgan Studios at night once the Jam had finished their sessions, and, using the Jam's gear, recorded through the night till dawn.
It's been almost three decades since a 17-year-old Smith formed The Easy Cure in Crawley, England. Despite various lineup changes, The Cure have forged an ongoing career highlighted by an astonishing run of artistic and commercial successes, including chart-topping hit singles, gold and platinum records, countless awards, critical acclaim, and an international fan base that follows the band with religious fervor. They have secured their place in music history by shaping modern rock as we know it today.
|
Randomly: Ripperman Graphic Novel Hits Stores
|
Ripperman Graphic Novel Hits StoresChanting Monks Press highly anticipated Graphic novel hits stands this week.November 2nd 2004 - This week, Chanting Monks Studios will release its highly anticipated one-shot Ripperman, featuring flip covers by industry favorite Ben Templesmith and Horror/Sci-Fi artist Jeff Pittarelli.Writer/Artist Joe Martino says "This is like a dream come true. When I started this book back in 1997, I would never believe the book finally made it to press. It has been a passion of mine and it is a great feeling to finally hold it in my hands"
Ripperman is a 64 page Graphic Novel; It showcases the talents of Joe Martino, Peter Palmiotti, Rick Buckler Jr., Johnny Lowe, John Orlando, Steven Preston, Dash Martin, Peter J. Romeo, Naser Subashi, Jim Taylor, Jeff Austin, Jon Hook and Allen Geneta.
Early Reviews have been better than expected,
Heath of thecomicfanatic.com says " Martino does a remarkable job of endearing this character to the reader. I was surprised by how much I cared about this character. I mean, look at him! Does this Ripperman look like someone that would induce feelings of sympathy in a reader? But from page one, I wanted to know who this character was, what his mission was"
And Chris Delloiacono from comicnexus.com says "Preacher is one of my favorite comic series and I find Dogma a hilarious look at some of the more interesting aspects of organized religion. Ripperman follows in the vein of those works, by giving us some rather compelling religious aspects, mixed with some fun comic-ass-kicking, and room to test your own religious beliefs."
Ripperman will hit stores on November 3rd, 2004. For more information please visit www.jgmcomics.com or www.chantingmonks.com.
|
Randomly: Sam Hiti's Comic Book Creatures
|
Rise of the rebel: Sam Hiti's comic-book creatures draw attention from Hollywood
Last update: October 29, 2004 at 1:59 PM
Tom Horgen, Star Tribune(excerpt)
Success. You want it? Well, you've gotta have a plan. And dedication. And hard work, too. Ugh, words most of us loathe, right?
Minneapolis comic-book artist Sam Hiti can't stop uttering those maxims, because in his case they're all true. And one more -- Boom! -- success.
After spending more than a decade painting houses while drawing comics on the side, the 29-year-old Hiti suddenly is doing the comic-book adaptation of "Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events," the big-budget holiday film starring Jim Carrey. He's sketching illustrations for the New York Times. And -- Pow! Zap! Bam! -- he's getting attention from Hollywood for a possible movie of his demon-hunter saga "End Times/Tiempos Finales," a graphic novel he published this summer.
Mike Mignola, a comic legend and creator of the cult favorite "Hellboy," said he "freaked out" when he met the mild-mannered Hiti at a comics convention in San Diego. Mignola considers "End Times" the best graphic novel of the year.
[ Read more Rise of the rebel: Sam Hiti's comic-book creatures draw attention from Hollywood ]
|
Random: Shaun of the Dead on DVD
|
The scariest day of the year is quickly approaching - Halloween! In honor of the day, complete the newest challenge - carving a Shaun of the Dead pumpkin. Take a look at the new poll and trivia to gain even more pints!In other big news, the DVD will hit stores on December 21, 2004! Visit Universal Studios to pre-order your copy today. The Shaun Squad fansite will remain open in anticipation of the upcoming DVD release and will have a whole new set of tasks and prizes. That's two more months of zombie madness, Shaun Squadders, and your opportunity to show who is King (or Queen) of the zombies!
|
Random: John Peel Dies of Heart Attack
|
Subject: S*M*A*S*H off topic - John Peel
Wed, 27 Oct 2004 10:03:31 +0100
from Stuart PackerJohn Peel often told the story hearing 'Teenage Kicks' for the first time. He was driving in his car listening to the song on a demo tape. He was so overcome by the tune that he pulled onto the side of the road to have a cry.
There are thousands of people across Britain today who will have had a similar experience on hearing of his untimely death.
From NME
JOHN PEEL DIES OF HEART ATTACKFrom BBC.co.uk
Published: 26-10-2004-14-09(excerpt)
JOHN PEEL has died of a heart attack aged 65.
The broadcasting legend, who had a career spanning over 40 years, was on holiday in Peru when he was taken ill.
A statement has been issued by the BBC which reads: "It has been confirmed that BBC radio broadcaster John Peel died from a heart attack last night whilst on holiday in Peru. He leaves behind his wife Sheila and four children."
John Peel dead at 65
Published 26 10 04(excerpt)
Returning to Britain, he became a pirate radio DJ, before joining Radio 1 for its launch in 1967, quickly establishing himself with the late night programme Top Gear. John was the first DJ to give exposure to punk, reggae, and hip-hop, long before they crossed over into the mainstream.
|
Random: Midnight Studio Comics
|
Visit Midnight Studio Comics Forum
« Thread started on: 10/24/04 at 3:51pm »
posted by AndrewWest
Hello,
This is a Public Invite to the Midnight Studio Comics Forum.
Here you can converse, share ideas with the creators which we may add to our upcoming books!
Also we have a Creator Central section where you can share your art, your sequentials, post collaboration want ads and much more!
We even have a Paying Gigs section for you guys looking for PAID WORK.
We want everyone to have a great visit, so give look and MAKE YOURSELF KNOWN!!
--ANDREW WEST
www.midnightstudiocomics.com
|
Random: Microindie Records Needs Help
|
Yes it's all true. Microindie Records is run mostly by one guy (me) from a basement in Wyoming Michigan. The label exists not for profit but to share the music I like with as many people as I can. The bands on the label are all making music for the same reason more or less.So here's the dilemma: in the past few years it has become harder and harder for basement indie labels and small indie bands to do what they love to do. Stores are going out of business and the distribution system is breaking down. Many labels are selling 25-50% of what they were selling just a few years ago. Bands and labels are finding it almost impossible to cover the cost of recording, pressing, promoting and touring. We dig in our pockets but we are all working day jobs to make it happen and the pockets aren't very deep. Many labels have folded and bands have stopped recording and touring.
Here's what you can do: support your local indie band and label. Support your favorite international indie band and label. They CAN continue to exist with this support. As an example, I have 350+ people on my email list. If I scrape together enough cash to put out the Icicles cd this fall and 350 people were to mailorder it from me, that would be enough money to pay for the pressing and a little promotion and give some money to the Icicles to repay the recording costs. The main thing is, the money I recoup for the label will then be used to start the cycle again for the next band and next release. The money the Icicles recoup will probably be used to tour in 2005. But I stress that you are a link in this chain and without that link, we can only keep this going for a limited time. Now in a way, I understand I am preaching to the choir because you are receiving this email if you are on my list, which generally means you have supported the label in the past. So for that I say thanks and I hope you continue your support in the future, not just for my label but for others like Matinee, Slumberland, Shelflife, Bus Stop, Magic Marker, Secret Crush, Happy Happy Birthday to Me, Clairecords, Candle, Endearing, Chocolate Hearts, Boompa etc…and all the bands on these labels. Thanks again!
|
Random: Ask the Editors #6
|
ASK THE EDITORS #6
September 15th, 2004(excerpt)
Aron H.:
I am writing to you as a longtime Wonder Woman fan. To say I am a fan is an understatement. In fact, fanatic is a better word. I have spent the better part of my life as a devout follower of the Amazon princess.A few years ago, I met a very special person, and he rekindled my love for Wonder Woman. About a year ago he died from HIV. It shattered me. I just passed his birthday, and am rapidly coming up on the one-year anniversary of his passing. I wanted to tell you this because without the help of some wonderful family and friends and Wonder Woman, I do not think I could have gone on living. When he died, I also found out that I had HIV. The depression of losing him coupled with my own inevitable future was crippling. Many nights I have sat at home feeling incredibly depressed, and when things get their worst, I always play one of my old Wonder Woman episodes, or read one of my Wonder Woman comics. Wonder Woman's presence in my life has once again saved me. First she did so as an icon for an awkwardly different little boy, and now as a good friend and comforting face as a man. Whenever I feel like I have no more strength for anything, I look to her exploits and her challenges and it always brightens my spirits. My whole world goes from dark to bright whenever I purchase a new Wonder Woman item or collectible. Now my friends and family have replaced my lost love's duties as builders of the collection.
[ Read more ASK THE EDITORS #6 ]
|
Random: Fantagraphics Article in Seattle Weekly
|
Saved by the Beagle
September 15 - 21, 2004
by Michaelangelo Matos
A year ago, Seattle's Fantagraphics was on the brink of bankruptcy. Now it's in the black, thanks to good ol' Charlie Brown—and a pair of dogged believers who turned a cranky fanzine into the most widely respected comics publisher in America.
It's easy to get lost looking for Fantagraphics' headquarters. Situated just off I-5 on Lake City Way Northeast, it's neighbored on the left by a, shall we say, imaginatively decorated house: hand-painted signs and bizarre metal tchotchkes leap about the exterior fence like a Dalí birdhouse explosion. Visiting for the first time, it's tempting to mistake that oddball unit for FHQ. Hey—maybe comics people really are all nuts!
That fantasy begins dissipating as soon as you walk up to the 28-year-old publisher's actual offices next door; go inside and it disperses entirely. For one thing, this office is a two-story house with a basement, an old place with a surprising number of rooms around a surprising number of corners. The kitchen is triangulated by a staffer's desk, a Xerox machine, and the refrigerator, which itself is a couple steps away from the office of Gary Groth, the company's president and the majordomo of The Comics Journal, the monthly news and criticism magazine. Groth's office window overlooks a back porch and the alleyway. The house is not brightly lit—the better, one suspects, to concentrate on the tasks at hand.
[ Read more Saved by the Beagle ]
|
Random: Heroes Helping & Healing: Hurricane Victims Relief Fund
|
Information about the project is available here: Heroes Helping & Healing: Hurricane Victims Relief FundWe've gotten committments from several former CrossGen staff including Andy Smith, Sergio Cariello, and Jay Leisten.
|
Random: Free DVD Collector's Box From Animego
|
Free DVD Collector's Box
Tuesday, May 04, 2004 10:32:47 AM
Don't forget to select a FREE DVD collector's box when ordering your favorite Lone Wolf & Cub film.
Don't forget to select a FREE DVD collector's box when ordering your favorite Zatoichi film.
AnimEigo is now offering FREE Collectors' Boxes! This is a great way to keep and display your favorite samurai DVDs. Just add a box to any DVD order and it will arrive along with your disc. You can also order a free box without purchasing a DVD, although you will have a S&H fee of $4.95**. Get yours today, because this promotion may not last forever.
Due to limited quantities of this item, please limit your order to one per person.
|
Forum for fans for fun, light-hearted comics
August 23, 2004 10:47pmA few Internet friends and I got together to make a forum dedicated to fun. A place for fans of comics and more who enjoy chatting about the things they've enjoy in past and present comics and entertainment. The name we came up for it is "IMWAN". It means pretty much whatever people want it to mean.
We're guided by a basic rule of play nice with one another.
If you'd like to stop by, the site is: www.imwan.com/phpBB2
