Random Thoughts and Musings

Hey there! I just want to confess that I am really getting behind on my internet stuff. I used to check my e-mail at work while eating lunch, or would just check out other people's sites. As of a few weeks ago, I quit doing any surfing at all. It sets a better example if I don't, and I am finding that I focus better.

Needless to say, it leaves little to no time to keep up. I leave for work at 6:45 a.m. and don't get home until around 7 p.m. That is my first chance to check my e-mail and blog. Yikes. I am so far behind on my e-mail that I am embarassed. My friends must think I suck. I also still haven't found a balance here. I wish I wasn't so tired and could make more articulate posts. Lately I have made stupid grammar and spelling errors, which drives me nuts.

I don't want to quit blogging, so I guess I am asking you to bear with me some more. Hopefully on weekends I will get more caught up.

In great news, I have lost 10 pounds on my diet. Today was officially the end of week three of a twelve week cycle, so I am on target. My pants are starting to get loose, so I am about five to ten pounds away from the next size down. That is self esteem building to say the least.

In bad news, I haven't been on my ComicSpace much at all and I am scared to see how many bulletins there are. I think I may wait until Saturday to check it out.

Not much more to tell here. I just wanted to be upfront with my lack of internet time. It is the thing that has had to give a bit in order for me to work out like I need to. I have never lifted so hard! My arms are like spaghetti tonight.

Have a wonderful evening! I will see you back here tomorrow night!

Picture of the Week: Is This Gratuitous?!?

Teen Titans 43 pg 3
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

For as long as I can stand it, I am planning a new feature called "Is This Gratuitous?" This is quite simply, where I take a picture from a comic book issue and we try and decide if it is tasteful, obscene, or somewhere in between.

For this week's feature, I present to you Teen Titans #43, part one of the Titans East storyline. On what I am presuming to be page three, Raven shows a little bit of butt to the world at large. There must have been a breeze to lift her cape up, I guess.

It makes me a bit jealous, because I don't believe my hind quarters have ever looked half as fine. It also makes me a bit upset, because I know that I will never look like that, no matter how much I work out. Does this mean that Raven is just naturally thin and pert?

This isn't the worst I have seen. I have dibs else where on that. But it isn't great. Why they couldn't have her face a different angle is beyond me.

Oh yeah.

It's the marketing.

Okay, now it's your turn. Is this Gratuitous?

New Comics for January 31

Snakewoman 7
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

It's a new week already! It seems that as my life has been stressful lately, time is going so quickly that I don't feel like I can manage it. We made a quick trip out of town Saturday, so yesterday was a panic, and now today seems like it should still be the weekend. Oh well- it was for a fun cause!

My comic list doesn't seem to be getting smaller, so I figured I would add a "drop" list to try and keep track of my purchases. Here is my first try.

Picking up:
52 Week 39
American Virgin #11
Blue Beetle #11
Deathblow #3
Ex Machina #26
Hawkgirl #6 - on the chopping block
Ion #10 (of 12) - almost over!
JSA Classified #22 - on the chopping block
Teen Titans #43- on the chopping block
Uncle Sam and the Freedom Fighters #7 (of 8) - almost over!
Hunter Killer #11 - on the chopping block
Anita Blake Guilty Pleasures #4 (of 12)
Black Panther #24
Daredevil #93
X-Men #195
Devi #7
Snakewoman #7 - Cover Pictured!
Strangers in Paradise #87

Dropped
JLA Classified #33
Jack of Fables #7
Ultimate Fantastic Four #38

Yikes. I really didn't want to drop Jack of Fables, but it was a great stopping point. I don't like the direction Ultimate Fantastic Four is going, so that was an easy drop. JLA Classified really underwhelmed me last issue, so that has to go as well.

As you can see, there are a few other books on the chopping block depending on how I feel after reading this issue. It sucks to have to do this, but there is no other choice. It is either quit reading comics all together or cut back.

On that note, have a great week and a wonderful night!

Press Release: Blue Water Productions Moves to Atomic Pop ArtEntertainment

Tenth Muse
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

For those of you who have been fans of Tenth Muse throughout her ventures to a couple of different comic book companies, great news is afoot. Blue Water Productions has found a new home at Atomic Pop Art Entertainment.

The press release reads as follows:

"APA ANNOUNCES ALLIANCE WITH BLUEWATER
New Publishers Pairs with Production Studio to Keep the Awesome Coming!

Fort Smith, AR – January 26, 2007 – BlueWater Productions—the company behind such smash hits as 10th MUSE, VSS, and THE LEGEND OF ISIS—announced today that it has reached an agreement with Atomic Pop Art Entertainment to publish a series of fan-favorite graphic novels throughout 2007.

"This new arrangement will allow Atomic Pop Art to bring back some of our best work from our past with Image Comics and Alias Comics," said BlueWater Productions president and managing editor, Darren G. Davis. “APA couldn’t be happier with our graphic novel arrangement with Darren,” says APA publisher Shon C. Bury. “BlueWater books have very loyal fans—and we’re eager to get them fresh collections of all their favorites like 10th Muse, Legend of Isis, and Judo Girl.”

2007 GRAPHIC NOVELS FROM APA AND BLUEWATER (tentative release dates):

• 10th Muse Vol. #1: God War
Release: May 2007

• 10th Muse: Crossovers
Release: July 2007

• The Legend of Isis : Dogs of War
Release: July 2007

• Judo Girl: Vol 1
Release: August 2007

• 10th Muse: Vol #2
Release: August 2007

• 10th Muse: Vol #3
Release: September 2007

The future of POP has arrived!

Comic Shop Locator Service: 1.888.COMIC.BOOK"

Interesting stuff, huh?

Creator Q & A: Dark Power's Ben Hansen

DARK_POWERS_PAGE_3_by_1314
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

When you meet Ben Hansen, the first thing that comes to mind is talent. He is personable, funny, and sweet but his art takes center stage, and he seems to like it that way. There is always a drawing instrument in his hand, and he is constantly working, even as we have a wonderful conversation about the industry today. His work is as much a part of him as his arm is- an extension of himself.

Hansen just finished work on his six issue mini-series titled Dark Powers. It will be solicited this year through Angel Gate Press. I can hardly wait to see the finished product.

Without further ado, here is my question and answer session with Ben Hansen.

Comics Fairplay: How did you get into the industry
Ben Hansen: I went to a con and got lucky.

CF: Tell me about your influences?
BH: My influences range from Jim lee, Bernie Wrightson, story board artist Collin Grant, to Humberto Ramos, director Tim Burton, and the list just keeps going. But the one who’s influenced me the most is Drew Hayes, the creator of Poison Elves. He took me under his wing and showed me that there’s a lot more out then the Jim lee’s and McFarlane’s. Then Jason Metcalf has been giving me pointers and tips which has helped out more then he’ll know.

CF: What audience are you hoping to reach with your work?
BH: Hopefully anyone and everyone from the age of 13 and up. The book after all is called Dark Powers.

CF: What unique qualities do you possess that make you stand out from your peers?
BH: I don’t know if I have any qualities that make me stand out from my peers.
We all have the same love for the field and that’s why we’re here: to draw comics.
If any thing I would have to say it’s my love for the field. I mean were else can you work on a car turning into a giant robot one day and the next your working on green haired lunatic who plays with a guy dressed as a bat. It’s just a great field to work in.

CF: What project are you currently working on?
BH: I’m currently working on a book called Dark Powers.
The book is written by Quenton Shaw, penciled by me, inked by Jeff Duba and colored by Dan Kroon. Lettering and special FX are by Eric bell. It should by hitting the stores in 2007.

CF: How many issues is your project and when do you foresee it being solicited? Anything special you can mention right now?
BH: Dark Powers is a six issue mini-series and will be solicited by Angle Gate Press under their new label Dark Angel, along with Blood and Silver and Night of the Living Bed.

CF: What do you think about the industry today? Where do you see the industry five years from now?
BH: I have mixed feelings about the industry today. I think the smaller presses are going to be the next big thing. People show up for the big names, but the fans hang out and talk with the smaller names, at least at the smaller cons. As for the future, well I really can’t say.

CF: Tell me something about yourself that has nothing to do with comic books but that people might find interesting or surprising?
BH: For the past couple of years I’ve been doing a survey with every Ben I meet.
I ask them three simple questions.
1. Do you know what your name means?
Must of them say no. So I tell them that it means two things. The 1st meaning, right hand of god, and the 2nd, gifted in the right hand.
Which brings me to the second question.
2. Are you artistic in any way?
So far they’ve all said yes. Which strengthens my theory of the name.
It’s all in the name, sort of like a birthright. So if you name your kid Ben, You might want to start saving for art lessons of some fashion.
And for the third question
3. Are you right handed?
With this one I’m batting a 1,000
So you know any Bens out there ask them these three questions. You might be surprised.

CF: Where would you like to see yourself five years from now?
BH: I don’t really know where I see myself in five years. The only thing I can hope for is that I’m still doing what I love to do- drawing comics. Oh, and I don’t have a day job.

CF: Any closing comments?
BH: I’d like to thank every one for their help and support. So a big thanks goes out to my peeps at Shari’s restaurant, the crew at Cosmic Comics, Quenton, Debbie, Chad, Jason M., Jason R., Jeff D., Eric R. Dan, Eric B, Steve Miner, Drew, my future wife Jolene, the Busby’s, the crew at Copies Now, Ken and Heather H, my mom Tanna Rogers, Jim and Heidi at Comics Fairplay and last but not least the fans. If I forgot anyone I’m sorry.

Go check out Ben's amazingly diverse gallery at http://1314.deviantart.com. If you like what you see, there is information there on how to purchase prints of his work.

My Workout Music: It's All About the Agressive Guitars, Baby!

Zakk Wylde
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

Once again my hour on the elliptical got me thinking. As I watched my fellow exercise drones do their thing, I really wondered what they were listening to. Since I live in a town that favors Country Music, I was trying to envision going 177 on the EFX with George Strait on. Possible, but not my first choice. It really made me wonder.

As a rule, I listen to agressive metal-flavored rock during my cardio session and a blend of rap, metal, and bubble gum pop to lift weights to. Here is a sample of what's on my iPod.

Right Now - Korn
Ladies and Gentlemen - Saliva
Walk - Pantera
Points of Authority/99 Problems - Jay-Z/Linkin Park
Always on the Run - Lenny Kravitz
Some Heads Are Gonna Role - Judas Priest
How Long - Hinder
Locked In - Judas Priest
Forever - Papa Roach
It's Not Over - Daughtry
Crazy Bitch - Buckcherry
Bleed for Me - Black Label Society (the lovely Zakk Wylde is pictured)
Bring the Noize - Anthrax/Public Enemy
Machine Gun - Warrant
Stranglehold - Ted Nugent
Monkey Business - Skid Row
Bulls on Parade - Rage Against the Machine
Eyes of A Stranger - Queensryche
Hungry - Lita Ford
Rockey Queen - Guns N Roses
Bodies - Drowning Pool
Breathe On Me - Britney Spears HEH HEH
Sexyback - Justin Timberlake (another palate cleanser)
Walk This Way - Aerosmith

That is a sampling of my iPod. I have 574 songs on it right now, and what I listed above is about one cardio session worth of goodness. Trying to list all my songs would be a bit much, so I just wanted to give a sample. I enjoy the music I have- it really helps de-stress me and makes the work out go faster.

Now that my secret obsessive love for metal is out in the open, I might as well embrace it. Hee hee.

What do you listen to when you work out? What about when you are trying to relax? What is on your MP3 player?

DC Teaser: World War III - The Aftermath??

DC teaser
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

Today this image was released by DC Comics as a teaser... for something. Comic Book Resources and Newsarama both posted the picture of an obviously shattered and weeping Superman being comforted by Wonder Woman while an interesting array of heroes surround them.

My guess from the looks of this is that it has to do with World War III and the aftermath. What intrigues me is the characters that were selected. Seeing Donna Troy and Kyle Rayner so close together, it makes me wonder if their romance might come back?? I also am fascinated by the "Red Robin" from Kingdom Come and the Elseworlds Batman. This leads me to believe that the "infinite earths" are bleeding into each other somehow and that there will be serious repercussions in future stories.

It also makes me wonder if this could be a shout out to the hotly rumored, upcoming new DC weekly. Supposedly it will be called Countdown and will be the heir apparent to the 52 series. Hmmm..

At any rate, I am really eager to see what comes of the characters pictured here. From the tattered remains of the statue of liberty and the murdered characters featured on the front of the image, it makes me look forward to spending this coming year checking out DC's books.

My final appreciation is that the art appears to be by Phil Jimenez, one of my favorite artists, and a very nice guy.

What do you all think?

Time For A Stiff Drink- The Boys Cancelled.. Now.

The Boys #7
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

Well Crap. I just got home from working out to find out over at Newsarama that The Boys has been cancelled as of last month's issue, number six.

Damn.

Published under the Wildstorm banner at DC, The Boys has been plagued by controversy right from the start. From orgies to a certain gerbil fetish, the book is obviously not for the faint of heart. It is an adult-themed book to be sure, one that has been labeled as such.

It figures. I love this book. I am already pumped for next week's #7 and to find out it has been cancelled before I will see anymore issues sucks. No bones about it. Along with 100 Bullets, Fables, and Manhunter, this has been one of my favorite books from day one.

Double Damn.

The official article at Newsarama reads as follows:

"Newsarama has learned that Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson’s Wildstorm series, The Boys has been cancelled by DC, effective with issue #6 of the series, which is currently on shelves. Issues #7-#10, as well as the trade collection – all of which have been solicited – will not ship.

DC declined to comment on the series or even confirm that the series has indeed, been canceled.

The series sales appear to have been healthy enough, with issue #6 seeing an estimated 27,000 copies shipping to stores in December, placing it at #81 on Diamond’s Top 300 list. For that month, only two other Wildstorm titles sold more copies, Gen13 and Midnighter. August’s issue #1 saw an estimated 31,000 copies sold.

The series was announced with much hoopla at last spring’s WizardWorld LA, and was heralded by Ennis here on Newsarama as the book that would “out-Preacher Preacher.” The phrase was later picked up and used on promotional posters for the series from DC, who saw it as part of the Wildstorm revitalization.

Robertson had perhaps the most succinct description of the series, saying: “The Boys are a team of five super-powered operatives who work for a secret department within the U.S. government. It's their job to monitor and investigate superhero behavior, they gather intelligence- i.e. dirt- on them, and occasionally to use it against them. Just as the C.I.A. has had a use for the Mafia, Sadaam Hussein, and Columbia's FARC terrorists (to name a few), so they also need superheroes. Sometimes they need them on a leash. Sometimes they have to put them down. The Boys are the people who do the job.”

When the series launched, readers found that little of what Ennis and Robertson was saying was hyperbole. The series was violent, rude, crude, and…essentially, what you’d expect if you put Ennis and Robertson together in a room with superheroes.

The series was clearly in crescendo mode in regards to content, and this was clearly seen in issue #6 when, after a super-powered individual was accidentally killed by Hughie, a hamster crawled out of…his backside.

While DC has published graphic violence, sexual situations, and individuals who prefer the ruder and cruder side of life (much of it with Ennis’ name attached) in the past, it has also, on a handful of occasions, pulled material from a comic it felt crossed the line. Again, DC declined to comment on the reasons behind the series cancellation. If the series was cancelled because the publisher felt it was too over the top, The Boys would be in rare company, joining Marvel/Epic’s Void Indigo by Steve Gerber and Val Mayerik, which only saw one issue published before it was ended, due to content issues.

On a purely speculative note, The Boys is a creator-owned property, jointly owned by Ennis and Robertson. After his series, Fallen Angel was cancelled by DC, co-creator of the property Peter David was able to regain the property and move it to IDW, where it has been published since.

When contacted by Newsarama about the situation with the series, Robertson replied:


"The Boys has been canceled effectively with issue #6.

"It became obvious that DC was not the right home for The Boys. DC is being good about reverting our rights so we can find a new publisher and we're in the process of doing that now. I'm continuing to work exclusively for DC in the meantime. I want to thank Scott Dunbier and Ben Abernathy at Wildstorm for all their hard work."

Evidently this is censorship at it's finest, folks. I can only hope that the book does indeed find another home so I can continue to follow the adventures of Hughie and his group. Instead of giving up hope, I am crossing my fingers on the mighty return of The Boys.

Buying a Book For Sentimental Reasons... Can Be Bad!

As I was doing my nightly work out, I was thinking of ways to cut expenses and the first obvious one is cutting out comics.

Hmmmm...

How about just cutting down a lot and cutting our cable television down a level?

Much better.

At any rate, as I was looking through my list of books, it really hit me that I collect quite a few books just because. Yep. Just because.

What kind of a crappy reason is that?

My best example is the X-Men titles. I have every issue of Uncanny X-Men since the early 100's. That is over thirty years of continuity. On the "adjectiveless" title, I have every issue since number one. Despite the quality of the book, I continue to buy each issue.. you guessed it... just because.

That has got to stop. I have done well with the Civil War related titles at Marvel, dropping several titles I have long enjoyed without remorse.

BUT I HAVE TO DO MORE.

If I keep collecting crappy books for the sake of continuity it does no one any favors in the long run, other then my nephews for selling my books after I pass away many years from now.

As of today I am taking a vow to drop shoddy books despite any sentimental reason. God help me, I have to. Both financially and to take a stand with the comic book companies by speaking with my money.

Of course, currently I AM enjoying the Uncanny X-Men storyline by Ed Brubaker, so maybe that is a bad example. Heh. Flash would be a better one, or Wolverine.

I will keep you posted with how I do in winning the battle over sentimentality.

How do you do?

New Comics for January 24

Fallen Angel 12
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

My blogging is suffering already from the affects of two hour workouts after work. I feel like I am sacrificing better quality, more thought-out posts for my exercise, and it is hard to reconcile the two. I guess for now I will have to be torn between the two and do the best I can.

There are several excellent new comics coming out this week. As I am cutting back, I will be retaining those quality books while dropping the ones that disapoint. I hate to do it, but funds demand it.

Here is this week's list!

Samurai Heaven and Earth Volume 2 #2 (of 5)
100 Bullets #80- my favorite book, no doubt there.
52 Week 38
Checkmate #10
Connor Hawke Dragon's Blood #2 (of 6)
Fables #57
Flash The Fastest Man Alive #8 - on the chopping block
Hellblazer #228
Helmet of Fate Ibis the Invincible #1
Robin #158- also on the block
Wetworks #5- another on the chopping block
Invincible #38
Noble Causes #26
Witchblade #103- on the block for chronic lateness
Criminal #4
Doctor Strange Oath #4 (of 5)
Eternals #6 (of 7)
Punisher War Journal #3- on the block
Silent War #1 (of 6)- a try out book
Wolverine #50- a try out book
X-Factor #15- another favorite title
Fallen Angel #12 - cover pictured
John Woo's Seven Brothers #4
Ramayan 3392 #5

That's the list for this week. Depending on my mood, I may not pick up some of these titles. I will keep you posted.

Have a wonderful evening!

Shon C. Bury's Nox is Back!

Nox 1 Covah!
Originally uploaded by shoncbury.

Last year at Emerald City Comicon, the hubby and I had the booth next to Shon Bury and Joe St. Pierre. We were lucky enough to strike up a conversation over the two days and have dinner Saturday night. Needless to say, we have been very excited about the projects that Shon and Joe have in the hopper, and it is a distinct pleasure to bring you a press release with the great news that Nox is back. Read on for details!

"Atomic Pop Art Entertainment, LLC, (APA) Press Release
For Immediate Release

SHON C. BURY’S NOX LANDS @ APA

Fort Smith, AR – January 9, 2007 – Imagine a world equally populated by mystical gurus, urban hipsters, and dark forces bent on tipping our drab, mundane world into shadows. That work is writer/creator Shon C. Bury’s Nox—an original graphic novel hitting shelves this June from upstart comic-book publisher Atomic Pop Art Entertainment. Originally formatted as a five-issue mini series that mapped the mythical Hero Cycle onto a modern world, the book will now be released as one complete graphic novel. “It’s a very self-aware study of the Hero Cylce; a low fantasy generously peppered with Everyman situations and what I like to refer to as comedy,” Shon says.

“It’s been an absolute joy working with the Nox creative team on my first OGN,” Shon says. “Nox was absolutely a product of a lifetime of reading and studying both comics and mythology—and my desire to combine the two. I always envisioned Joey and Bobby’s adventures as one, continues story...so I’m very thankful APA gave me the opportunity to bring my toys over to their very cool sandbox.”

Initially scheduled to be published in 2006, it was decided to remove Nox from the market when small-press newcomer, Narwain, mishandled their entry into the industry. Regardless, Nox garnered repeated critical acclaim throughout the industry and was named Comic Geek Speak’s Indy Challenge Winner in March of that year. Newsarama’s Troy Brownfield claimed Nox was “...an energetic book that turns your typical kid on a quest scenario on its head” while That’s Entertainment gave the book 10 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Shon C. Bury’s Nox please review the following links: Silver Bullet Comic Books, Jazma Online, NYX Comics, and Broken Frontiers. Or email sbury@atomicpopart.net.

Be on the lookout this APRIL for ordering information. On sale this JUNE!

The future of POP has arrived!

Comic Shop Locator Service: 1.888.COMIC.BOOK"

This is wonderful news for a great guy. We couldn't be happier!

Random Thoughts and Musings

Yesterday was the first day of the new year I didn't blog. I am a bit mad at myself, but am trying to get over it. I got home late from working out and was starving. By the time I ate dinner and got changed out of my sweaty clothes, it was almost 8:30 p.m. Needless to say, I just couldn't do it. I had nothing of consequence to say and didn't want to just blog to say I did.

Today being another day, I am still a bit light on ideas to talk about other then to complain like a little girl about how sore my body is from serious weight lifting and hour long sessions on the EFX. Needless to say, after blogging tonight, I am going to pop a few ibuprofens and eat some dinner. I love working out, but I hate the first few weeks of hardcore lifting. Ouch.

I do have some people I want to give shout-outs to for their blogging goodness. I have been meaning to, and got carried away by DC news so it didn't happen until today.

The fantastic Loren at One Diverse Comic Book Nation does an incredible job of rounding up reactions to Manhunter's demise while adding his thoughts. Loren, you said it perfectly.

I really enjoyed Shelly's reviews, so I want to pass them on. I appreciate how she is able to sum up her feelings so succinctly, and how often I agree completely. Go to Shelly's Comic Book Shelf to see her action figures as well. I love that she doesn't just keep them in the box.

Lisa at Sequentially Speaking has good news. Her new furnace is finally installed so she doesn't have to freeze everyday! Yay! She also has a link to tryouts for Who Wants to be a Super Hero. I wish I was creative enough to make a character and get on that show!

In really exciting news, there are more guests being added to the Emerald City Comicon. This show is going to rule! Mark March 31 and April 1 on your calendars, and go check out the website. I am going to have a booth there to promote my blog, and I would love to see you there.

If you haven't ever been to Always Bet on Bahlactus, you need to make the trip over there. He has a unique voice, and I love the fact that he is collecting every issue that features Galactus. Bookmark the site, already!

Today is Laura's birthday! Happy Birthday! Over at Bloggity-Blog-Blog-Blog, she continues her odyssey of reviewing every issue of Aquaman in existence. It is a great deal of fun!

On that positive note, I am off into the night to relax and revive so I can go workout again tomorrow! Have a wonderful evening!

Hawkgirl Title: Next on Chopping Block?

Hawkgirl 59
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

I don't know if it is the bad karma that I passed it's way by hating on a cover a week and a half ago, but signs point to Hawkgirl being the next DC title to be cancelled. Over at Lying In The Gutters at Comic Book Resources, Rich Johnston reports:

"The new DC Previews state that "Firestorm" and "Manhunter" have been cancelled. I understand that "Hawkgirl" is also to join that list. "

As much as Manhunter's demise upset me, this cancellation of Hawkgirl would come as no surprise. Since the One Year Later storyline has commenced, it has not held any momentum. I had been holding off dropping the book awaiting Hawkman's return, but that is in the crapper now.

When Hawkman (now Hawkgirl) started with a new series, I was pretty excited. Geoff Johns and Rags Morales did a wonderful job. Unfortunately, since their departure, the series has been very uneven. Everytime I would be ready to drop it, a new team would come on and my hopes would increase, usually to be dashed quickly. Unfortunately, it looks now like this title will fall victim to crossover-itis.

I am not surprised, but am sorry to see a series starring a female character I like end.

Wishing I Would Win the Lottery: DC's Donna Troy mini-bust Rules!

Donna Troy mini bust
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

I had so much to say about DC's previews for April earlier this week that I didn't get to mention the non-reading material item I loved most.

As you will see, DC is soliciting a Donna Troy mini-bust for their Women of the DCU series. This is one of those items I would really like to own. Donna is a favorite of mine, and it has been rare in the past to be able to get many items that feature her. To see an action figure solicited a few months ago and now have the opportunity to get a bust is unheard of.

I have the Wonder Woman and Power Girl mini-busts from this series, which is based on designs by Adam Hughes. I am not real fond of the the Wonder Woman final product, because it was smaller and less detailed then I hoped. The Power Girl bust came out much better because it is more of an action pose. Looking at this bust, there is a bit more to it because of the lasso, so I am hoping for the best.

I really can't afford it, so I will probably just drool a bit and really wish for it, but it is nice to dream.

Specifications on the Donna Troy mini-bust are as follows:

"WOMEN OF THE DC UNIVERSE: DONNA TROY BUST
Designed by Adam Hughes
Sculpted by Jack Mathews
Donna Troy continues the amazing line of Women of the DC Universe busts designed by award-winning illustrator Adam Hughes. This limited-edition, hand-painted, cold-cast porcelain busts measures approximately 5.5" tall x 3" wide x 2" deep and is packaged in a four-color box.
Advance-solicited; on sale September 5, 2007 o Bust o $45.00 US "

New Comics for January 17

Red Sonja Annual #1 Cover by Stephen Sadowsky
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

It is a light week here at Comics Fairplay, and I couldn't be happier. With tight finances, I am going to be dropping several titles in the next few months, so only the best will survive. Heh.

Here is this week's list:

52 Week 37
Aquaman Sword of Atlantis #48
Birds of Prey #102
Catwoman #63
Helmet of Fate Detective Chimp #1
Y The Last Man #53
Girls #21
Exiles #90
She-Hulk 2 #15
Ultimate Spider-Man #104
Ultimate X-Men #78
Wisdom #2 (of 6)
Red Sonja Annual #1- excellent cover pictured

I am keeping it short and sweet tonight because my arms and shoulders are so sore from weight lifting. Yikes. I weighed myself tonight and I have lost 4 1/2 pounds since last Wednesday, so I am pretty psyched!

Have a wonderful evening. Hopefully tomorrow will bring Marvel musings and a typical rant.

Take care!

Life Sucks Again: Manhunter and Firestorm Final Issues in April

Manhunter #30- Final Issue!!
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

As I was perusing the April solicits, I couldn't help but feel a bit of sinking in the pit of my gut. DC Comics is saying that Firestorm #35 and Manhunter #30 are the final issues of both series.

Crap.

So Firestorm gets three issues from the new creative team and ends, while Manhunter just got a reprieve only to be cancelled again. What an absolute shame.

Those of you who weren't reading Manhunter were missing something special. The evolution of the lead character and her cast was beautiful. Every month, this book was at the top of my pile, both for the gorgeous art and the tremendous scripting by Marc Andreyko.

I am also greatly saddened by the end of Firestorm. I started picking up the book at "One Year Later" and was really enjoying the story being told.

Cripes, where is the justice? Between the potentially good news on Wonder Woman and the bad news here, I don't know how to feel.

Final solicits on Firestorm and Manhunter are as follows:

FIRESTORM #35
Written by Dwayne McDuffie
Art by Pop Mhan & Rob Stull
Cover by Pete Woods
The end is here as Firestorm faces the fury of a superpowered Kalibak and a horde of Parademons! After this battle, you'll see a Firestorm that's never been seen before!
On sale April 25 o 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US o Final Issue

MANHUNTER #30
Written by Mark Andreyko
Art by Javier Pina & Robin Riggs
Cover by Jesus Saiz & Pina
The shocking series finale! When you're the best superhero lawyer on earth, where do you find your next challenge? Look to the stars…
On sale April 4 o 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US o Final Issue

Have any of you read anything about why the book is being cancelled? Is it the obligatory "bad sales" spin? If you find anything, let me know as I am very curious.

Wonder Woman Ships Twice in April??

Wonder Woman 7
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

Over at the esteemed Comic Book Resources, there is a posting of all the DC Comics solicitations for April. If my eyes do not mistake me, Wonder Woman is supposed to ship twice that month. That would be a refreshing change!

It appears that this is non-negotiable, as this Wonder Woman story arc by Jody Picoult will tie in to several other titles in April. The Amazons Attack mini-series is set to begin the same week issue 8 ships. It also seems that this event is set to tie in to World War III, which has four books shipping the same week. All of this joyous stuff fits into 52 Week 50, when said WW III is set to occur.

That basically means that if Wonder Woman is not back on track, it affects other titles rather then just affecting the author's vanity. I don't want to over-think this, but it would seem to me that there isn't any breathing room here.

According to the DC website, this means that Wonder Woman #4 ships February 7. Issue 5 is set to ship on March 14, with issue 6 arriving two weeks later on the 28th. Absolutely NO BREATHING ROOM... so it's got to run on schedule.

Bottom Line: we will either enjoy a bounty of Wonder Woman goodness, or you will have to ignore my endless rants about DC failiing to come through on it's promises. I am praying for the first choice.

Complete solicits for April Wonder Woman issues is as follows:

WONDER WOMAN #7
Written by Jodi Picoult
Art by Drew Johnson & Ray Snyder
Cover by Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson
Part 2 of acclaimed novelist Jodi Picoult's instant-classic WONDER WOMAN run finds Nemesis the victim of a trap laid for the Amazon Warrior, and Diana Prince under extreme pressure from Sarge Steel to caption her alter ego! The clues to Nemesis' fate lie in the now-abandoned Wonder Woman museum, but what awaits Diana is an even deadlier trap!
On sale April 11 o 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

WONDER WOMAN #8
Written by Jodi Picoult
Art and cover by Terry Dodson & Rachel Dodson
Part 3 of Jodi Picoult's WONDER WOMAN run welcomes the return of art team Terry Dodson and Rachel Dodson! Diana Prince was charged with capturing Wonder Woman for the Department of Metahuman Affairs, and she's unwittingly succeeded. But the true reason for her illegal detainment can and will precipitate a bloody war, one that even Diana is powerless to prevent! This issue leads directly into AMAZONS ATTACK #1, on sale the same week!
On sale April 25 o 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US

Let's all cross our fingers now...

Comic I Can't Wait to See: Amazons Attack #1

Amazons Attack #1
Originally uploaded by Heidi Meeley.

Newsarama just released a preview of comics coming in April. There are some amazing events in the hopper, like the conclusion of 52, a JLA/JSA team-up, and a new Dr. Fate series, but what I am really psyched to see is Amazons Attack.

After a drought of Wonder Woman and her Amazon sisters, I am going through serious withdrawals. The thought of multiple titles coming out in April is enough to make me giddy.

Now if only it really happens!

Specs for Amazons Attack #1 are as follows:

AMAZONS ATTACK #1
Written by Will Pfeifer
Art and cover by Pete Woods
Spinning out of the pages of Jodi Picoult's WONDER WOMAN comes the first major comics event of 2007! Well over a year has passed since the events of INFINITE CRISIS, including the retreat of the Amazons to the realm of the Gods. But now they’re back, screaming for vengeance! What could compel the Amazons to renounce their peaceful ways and attack America? The answers will prove useless to a country and hero population utterly unprepared for this savage attack. And where is Wonder Woman while all this is going on?

Written by Will Pfeifer (CATWOMAN, INFINITE CRISIS: THE SPECTRE) and illustrated by Pete Woods (SUPERMAN: UP, UP AND AWAY, SUPERMAN: BACK IN ACTION), this series unites the former Catwoman team for a story that will have devastating ramifications both in the present and all the way into 2008!
On sale April 25 • 1 of 6 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US Editor: Matt Idelson

Can I just say "Yahoo"!? To top it all off, Will Pfeifer is writing it and the amazing Pete Woods is illustrating it. It doesn't get any better then that.

Celebrating Jim's Birthday

Today is my hubby's birthday, so we are doing celebration type things. We slept in and went to Red Robin for lunch. Then it was off to visit one of his friends and some grocery shopping. Now we are home and I am going to cook dinner tonight. It is pretty low key, but that is what he wanted.

I got him page 18 of Spider-Girl #85 for his birthday. He was really thrilled as it was a page he wanted. I was pretty happy because I was able to be sneaky and surprise him. I looked at his Comic Art Fans gallery to see what issues he was missing and then went to Catskill Comics and found a page. The fun part was that he was truly surprised and that makes it fun for both of us.

Tomorrow I am hoping to post an interview with the talented Ben Hansen. His Supergirl art that I posted a couple of months back got quite a few hits, confirming what I already knew. The guy is seriously talented.

In the meantime, have a wonderful evening!

Thunderbolts Thought for the Day

Am I the only person that thought the new "Thunderbolts" were too similar to the Suicide Squad for comfort?? This would be issue #110, and I am running a few days late, so I hope I am not spoiling anything.

Just curious...