tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77471462024-03-23T11:33:15.015-07:00Comics FairplayComics Fairplay is devoted to musings about comic-related events, as well as pop culture occurrences.Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.comBlogger1391125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-21510803802247223262015-06-17T16:04:00.001-07:002015-06-17T16:04:49.879-07:00Wonder Woman Costume - you call it a bathing suit- I call it IconicThe first time I saw Wonder Woman, I fell in love. I fell in love with her strength, her kindness, her resolve, and her costume. Yes her costume. I loved that it looked like the American flag and I loved her long, flowing hair and tiara. I thought she was perfect. 44 years later, I still feel the same way.<br />
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To see the current creative team call her trademark outfit "a bathing suit" completely misses the mark. Putting her in leggings and a coat isn't going to make it better, and as past attempts to change her have found, it isn't going to have the same resonance.<br />
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I loved Brian Azzarello's take on Wonder Woman. The greek mythology, the savage loyalty, and the confidence Diana displayed every step of the way made me eager to grab each issue. Now with Meredith and David Finch on the book, I just shudder. I hate the way she is portrayed. I reminds me of the 1970's Wonder Woman in part- weepy, overwhelmed, and reliant on the opinions of others. The story doesn't flow well for me- too many things are going on and the plot jumps around until my head hurts. I can't wait for the inevitable creative change.<br />
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In the meantime, we are bowing to the so called feminists- being one myself, I find it odd that they would try and pinpoint that. Updating a character to fill a niche does not work. The complete obsession with under sexualizing characters to appeal to the loud few always irritates me.<br />
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You call it a bathing suit, I call it Iconic. Long live the bathing suit!<br />
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Link to article that set me off:</div>
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<a href="http://www.newsarama.com/24852-wonder-womwn-writer-on-donna-s-redemption-dumping-bathing-suit-costume.html">http://www.newsarama.com/24852-wonder-womwn-writer-on-donna-s-redemption-dumping-bathing-suit-costume.html</a></div>
Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-4291406147101692782015-04-17T16:02:00.001-07:002015-04-17T16:02:05.747-07:00#FBF - Seattle Comicard Show 2002<ol class="_3rbf clearfix" data-pnref="story" data-referrer="pagelet_timeline_recent_ocm" id="u_0_19_left"><div class="_5pcb _4b0l">
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My <a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/fbf?source=feed_text&story_id=10206570214193551"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl">#</span><span class="_58cm">FBF</span></a> story- back in the day we used to go to the Seattle Comicard Show at Seattle Center. There was a particular show that Joe Staton- one of my favorite artists- was going to be at. It was snowing hard on Snoqualmie Pass and I wanted to turn back a few times, but I was darned if I was going to miss meeting Mr. Staton. We got to the show and went inside. Trembling with excitement, I brought over my well loved copies of All Star Comics and Wonder Woman for Mr. Staton to <span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">sign. I think he didn't know what to think- he asked me if I had bought the books out of a quarter bin. I honestly can't remember what I said exactly, but I was absolutely thrilled and gushed about how much I loved his renderings of Huntress and Power Girl, and he was very gracious about the whole situation. I had him do this sketch of Huntress, and to this day it remains one of the most treasured pieces in my collection. I miss those days of simple comic book shows, and the opportunity for the one-on-one time that it held. In 2002, comic book shows did not look like they do today!!</span></div>
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<br />Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-77764496641018894572015-04-17T15:59:00.002-07:002015-04-17T15:59:34.110-07:00Rising from the Ashes....It has been four years since I blogged. That is a long time- like 90 years in dog years.<br />
<br />Life has been crazy. End of story.<br /><br />The comic book industry changed... a lot.... and I lost my passion for the subject.<br />
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Recent events have caused me to want to come back. These events include:<br />
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Feminism<br />
Cosplay<br />
Evolution of comicons<br />
General entitlement issues<br />
Comics being published today<br />
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The list can go on and on. Needless to say, there is so much that has changed, and not a lot of us old guard have stuck around to comment on it. Bear with me as I get my sea legs again and get back into the issues today.<br />
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I know that there is a good chance that no one will read this, but I am okay with that. :)<br />
<br />Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-75269127954377198462011-03-19T12:20:00.000-07:002011-03-19T12:35:11.262-07:00So That's Why There Was a Redesign...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrS0PNZYwHexjErVcbjrkgC7cUW5J8RszX-4y7coUa-gsMvA9XgBtmwDVO_uy-J7lmml75Vl4AHQyVAuXXI7R3oRyADH2AKlae682B9lvdhKYJR4sU52pLcNRfd88xAfzghAor/s1600/WW+EW.bmp"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5585874165562139586" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrS0PNZYwHexjErVcbjrkgC7cUW5J8RszX-4y7coUa-gsMvA9XgBtmwDVO_uy-J7lmml75Vl4AHQyVAuXXI7R3oRyADH2AKlae682B9lvdhKYJR4sU52pLcNRfd88xAfzghAor/s320/WW+EW.bmp" /></a><br /><div>When the Wonder Woman comic book series turned 600 and Diana got a new costume, I turned to Jim and told him that it must be because of a movie or television show. He agreed, we both got a giggle, and forgot about it. Yesterday, photos surfaced of actress Adrianne Palicki dressed in the new version with a few twists.<br /><br />Yet again, the internet goes wild with controversy. LOL.</div><div> </div><div></div><div>I am the first to admit that because of my age, I am prone to always think of Lynda Carter as "my" Wonder Woman. That being said, I am going to give the television series a chance. I want to support the character and see where the show goes. </div><div> </div><div></div><div>I am not thrilled with how shiny and powder blue colored the pants are, and I am praying her sense of Wonder Gravity keeps her bosom in check. I also want to know where the jacket is. The boots have heels and the top doesn't have the straps that the comic book character has, but otherwise it pretty much looks like Jim Lee's sketch. </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Now given validation that my offhand comment about the costume was on the money, I am fascinated to see how much of this series takes cues from the comic book versus using creative license not seen in the printed material.</div><div> </div><div></div><div>Much like the rest of the geek world, I will be watching and waiting. :)</div><div> </div><div></div><div>(Thanks to EW.com for the picture grab.)</div><div></div><div></div>Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-58118081304734457542011-03-06T12:12:00.000-08:002011-03-06T12:12:00.813-08:00ECCC 2011: Artist Ben Hansen Signing Prints<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/03/06/2502.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/03/06/s_2502.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />-- Post From My iPhone<br />Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-51612278231420730712011-03-06T12:10:00.000-08:002011-03-06T12:10:00.373-08:00ECCC 2011: Batgirl and RobinSo awesome! It is a good day today!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/03/06/2497.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/03/06/s_2497.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />-- Post From My iPhone<br />Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-4166145387173488432011-03-04T15:23:00.001-08:002011-03-04T15:23:10.099-08:00ECCC 2011: The Boondock SaintsI have officially hit nirvana. LOL<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/03/04/2663.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/03/04/s_2663.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />-- Post From My iPhone<br />Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-56016297991735658302011-03-04T11:41:00.001-08:002011-03-04T11:41:02.641-08:00ECCC 2011: View from the Panel Room<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/03/04/1980.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/03/04/s_1980.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />-- Post From My iPhone<br />Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-27008245132124741762011-03-01T18:56:00.000-08:002011-03-01T19:04:32.937-08:00Follow the Yellow Brick Road...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUx6Svt_89X5MJKhve-6Ky3vsGWki_CrivsEsz14mz7-rPPwx7qC6WFCW8OOfCH7rbBsNV-ME5KQrSclYEAKaHxDiRM0Q-jAtgDopXsieiI5UnhsK6pSL16cBCQXSZdwTyqDw/s1600/Transformers_colored_300dpistcopy2.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5579312828528552610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUx6Svt_89X5MJKhve-6Ky3vsGWki_CrivsEsz14mz7-rPPwx7qC6WFCW8OOfCH7rbBsNV-ME5KQrSclYEAKaHxDiRM0Q-jAtgDopXsieiI5UnhsK6pSL16cBCQXSZdwTyqDw/s320/Transformers_colored_300dpistcopy2.jpg" /></a><br /><div>This year's <span style="color:#006600;">Emerald City Comicon</span> is this weekend- Friday through Sunday, March 4 to 6. For those of you close enough to attend, make sure and head to Seattle and check it out. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Cool gift idea: pick up a copy of this awesome Transformers collectible print for $10 at the Sequential Treasures Comic Art Sales booth. Drawn as a jam piece by Randy "Rantz" Kintz and Ben Hansen, this piece just blows me away. The gorgeous colors by Eddy Swan give it a gorgeous finish that can't be beat. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>As a personal highlight, the stars of the <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0144117/">Boondock Saints </a>movies will be at the show and there will be a panel in their honor Friday night at 7 p.m.<br /><br />Head over to the<a href="http://www.emeraldcitycomicon.com/"> ECCC site</a> and take a look. Lots of good stuff to be had at the best comic book show in the Northwest!!</div>Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-20827790039261458302011-02-28T18:21:00.001-08:002011-02-28T18:27:34.521-08:00THIS IS MY BLOG, DAMMIT!!I had to get on here to let you know that I am back taking possession of my blog. Many months and thousands of air miles later, I dusted off the blog and took a spin around. I won't be posting daily- God knows that didn't work before- but I wanted to have the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">occasional</span> say in things and this is the place to do it.<br /><br />I spend around $20-30 a month on comics so I don't get to read very many titles. I also haven't had a chance to read the news sites, other than finding out that Dwayne McDuffie has passed away and being exremely saddened and dismayed. May he rest in peace.<br /><br />Since last August I have logged over 40,000 air miles and traveled to several places around the United States. It is interesting how few of those places have comic book shops. My goal is to try and find some shops when I hit the road again in a few weeks.<br /><br />If I can't afford to spend the money on comics, at least I can talk about trying to find them on the road. LOL.<br /><br />Now let's see if I can control the spam around here....Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-16704451828014080332010-07-01T17:26:00.001-07:002010-07-01T17:46:41.243-07:00Wonder Woman Changes: My Opinion<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YpdVXUJ9xLQTe1s3bEQWlXnAm6RWk8QYUs8tpnlzxDN77fkaK2AgxxtEWbagQi1zZJiL9Wb4NB-240Oib0wERfCsSP2Y8U7A6yyZjEhT1MkaeEZDBTSqoJEn4eRRckA-BYl-/s1600/WW+new+look.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 203px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489099893423511602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YpdVXUJ9xLQTe1s3bEQWlXnAm6RWk8QYUs8tpnlzxDN77fkaK2AgxxtEWbagQi1zZJiL9Wb4NB-240Oib0wERfCsSP2Y8U7A6yyZjEhT1MkaeEZDBTSqoJEn4eRRckA-BYl-/s320/WW+new+look.jpg" /></a><br /><div>I haven't blogged regularly for quite some time. I have been working a lot and trying to figure out what to do with my life, so it has been very quiet.<br /><br />Until today. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Because I have been a fan and longtime Wonder Woman reader, I wanted to give some thoughts. I believe the many dollars I have spent collecting the book from 1974 on and buying back issues that have created a continuous run from 1966 entitle me to this. No internet/comic book lurker am I- you have found the real deal here, Kids. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>First off, I am disappointed with the new costume. I am not outraged, because I know it won't last forever. My first impression was that it looked like an old school X-Men costume. My second reaction was that it actually takes away her singular, iconic form and makes her quite ordinary. I am a traditionalist and I won't apologize for it. Her "stars and spangles" costume has always set her apart, and I have never felt that she looks "cheap" or "sexy" in a way that is degrading, other then when past artists have given her the thong look that to me has always been a cop out in general.</div><div></div><br /><div>J. Michael Straczynski is going to put his stamp on the character as he sees fit in his run. Will it have lasting effects? There is no way to know at this point in time as all we have seen is a preview. I do know that there is a pretty big loophole already in place that will allow the next creative team to bring Diana back to any point in her history. This means that all the outrage that is pouring out right now may be just a moment in time. </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Has the new look made her less "revealing"? Not in my mind. She has a bustier and she is wearing lycra/leathery style pants that don't hide anything. All they have done is cover her up with tight clothing and put a jacket on her. It isn't like they put Wonder Woman in a hoop skirt, for Hera's sake. :-)</div><div> </div><div></div><div>As a reader, I am not a fan of what I have seen so far. I have already ordered issues 601 and 602 on my DCBS order, so I will have the opportunity to explore further and see if the new creative team can change my mind. </div><div> </div><div></div><div>I am not freaking out because I have read comics long enough to know that the only constant in it is change. I am also convinced that DC has done this to make it easier to produce a movie with a more "realistic" edge for non-comic book readers.</div><div></div><br /><div>Bottom line: I don't like the new look. Taking away the boots and the traditional costume have just made her less extraordinary in my book. I also don't like the fact that she has lost the traditions and rich culture of her upbringing- I always felt it made her unique. </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Her new codename should be "Urban Wonder Chick with the X-Men outfit so We can Make a Movie", cuz that is what it all boils down to.<br /></div><div></div><div>Now I am going to go read my friend's blogs to see what they think. :-)</div><div> </div><div></div><div>What is your opinion on the change?</div>Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-82015413753122758542010-06-15T20:11:00.001-07:002010-06-15T20:13:17.092-07:00A Couple of Quick Things...People who rip off deceased artists' work and sell it on eBay suck.<br /><br />The Justice League: Arsenal mini-series isn't the worst comic book series I have ever read, but it doesn't exactly toot roses either.<br /><br />Life is insane, but I miss this place. I hope that really soon things will change and I can spend a lot more time here. :-) HOPING!!Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-77603566437856957542010-03-20T15:44:00.001-07:002010-03-20T16:02:37.769-07:00Post Emerald City!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCqZ-4NVZ5QuZt4p9K7HzbN-e-jPFF7Kh-a_6dc86uvmKbAvCR46iFgMWrmzGEav91HE1N3hzNtUhA3FLDE8y4pS4kTjnq-QsJcnEwhvyYI9Q4Hq84Pn7VZ9yw4PvZCYBiFfW/s1600-h/1314con+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450853921421948722" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCqZ-4NVZ5QuZt4p9K7HzbN-e-jPFF7Kh-a_6dc86uvmKbAvCR46iFgMWrmzGEav91HE1N3hzNtUhA3FLDE8y4pS4kTjnq-QsJcnEwhvyYI9Q4Hq84Pn7VZ9yw4PvZCYBiFfW/s320/1314con+001.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I went to the <a href="http://http//www.emeraldcitycomicon.com/">Emerald City Comicon</a> with every intention of blogging photos and keeping up a stream of information. That obviously didn't happen, so here I am today following up.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This year I volunteered again for <a href="http://www.heroinitiative.org/">HERO Initiative</a> and then I helped Jim out at the <a href="http://http//sequentialtreasures.blogspot.com/">Sequential Treasures</a> artist alley table. Between those ventures, seeing old friends, and trying to recover from being sick, while deciding if alcohol would interact poorly with my meds, it was quite the full plate. LOL.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The good news is that ECCC was a wonderful time. It was busy, hectic, and tempers flared a bit, but it is always what you make it. Those of you that know me are aware that I always try and have fun, and keep a positive attitude, so finding out that I had a good time is nothing new. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We got to Seattle Friday night and waited for our good friend Brian to get off work. Then we ran over to the convention center, got the lay of the show, and got our badges. Since I was feeling so unwell with a bad head cold, we headed to Brian's place early. He was kind enough to put us up, and I am ever so grateful for that. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Saturday morning, we were up early and anxious to get to the show. Jim shared a table with Randy "Rantz" Kintz and his booth babe Phoebe. I helped him get set up and then assisted in the booth for awhile. </div><br /><div><br />HIGHLIGHT: Jim got to meet Stan Lee and get his autograph. He also got to shake his hand. I am so happy that this happened! In the early 1990's, Jim and his brother Tom tried to meet Stan Lee back in Philly but it never worked out. That being said, there was no way he was going to miss his opportunity this time! Mission accomplished, and I am happy with our decision, even though an autograph was $40. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I also got to see my good friend from college and her fiance'. It was their very first comic book show, and they had a great time. I was thrilled to see Michelle, and was happy to find out that Tony used to read comics growing up, so he had a definite point of reference. I also love the fact that they got to see what all the chaos is about. Both vowed to come back next year.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I love working the HERO Initiative booth. It is for a great cause, so it is easy to sell the product. I also get to work with great people- Brian, Kasey, Carly, Mike, etc. I was at the booth from 4 p.m. to close, and it went fast. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Saturday was a good day for friends and raising money. It wasn't the best day ever for Sequential Treasures. Selling original art is a niche, and the folks at the show didn't go overboard. We had problems that we have identified for next year- bigger signage, more table space, and a better take-away for prospective clients. The business is growing, and I am excited to be a small part of that. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We ended the day in the best way possible- at the HERO Initiative 3 minute sketch cocktail hour with Tim Sale. Jim got a killer Iron Man piece, and I got two beers. :-) </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I will be back to finish up talking about Sunday, a short blog summit, and why it is important to keep Comics Fairplay a regular commitment and bit of fun in my life. </div><div> </div><div></div><div>My picture is of Jim at his artist's alley table- ready for business!</div>Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-51627075492166952842010-03-12T21:28:00.001-08:002010-03-12T21:28:03.835-08:00Hero Initiative at ECCCSigning schedule tomorrow! Come by booth 907 tomorrow and raise money for a good cause. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/03/12/1457.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/03/12/s_1457.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />-- Post From My iPhone<br />Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-50275623196311592682010-03-09T19:57:00.000-08:002010-03-09T20:04:26.266-08:00Hitting the Limit: Comic PricesI was talking to Jim last night about the upcoming Emerald City Comicon. He wanted to know if I was going to take any spending money, and my answer was a quick "no". The reason for this is simple.<br /><br />The price of comic books in the current market have turned me off to buying new ones. When books hit $3.99, I hit my limit. Suddenly my habit felt like a burden- a huge financial one.<br /><br />I honestly have wandered around my basement looking at my many long boxes, feeling pissed off that I spent so much money over the years on books that sit in a box. Of course, I also feel the same way about DVD's, CD's, and hardcover books, so I digress a bit.<br /><br />My point is that I am scared to spend anymore money on comic books at this point. I enjoy the few that I still get, and I really appreciated your responses on what you are reading. I just wish that the limit on a new book was $2.50 or under.<br /><br />I know that publishers and creators have to make a living, so I am under no false illusion about the reality of things. It just disappoints me. I loved comic books for so many years, and now I just feel bitter. I think that is a big reason I didn't blog for awhile. I didn't get my books every week any more, and I couldn't spend much on the ones I did get. Thank God for Discount Comic Book Services. If not for them, I wouldn't be able to afford them anymore at all.<br /><br />It feels weird to go to a major comic event without any desire to spend money. I sincerely hope that when I get there it changes. Right now I want to work the HERO Initiative booth to raise money for creators in need and I want to help Jim out at his booth. I also want to see my wonderful friends, and that is the bonus.<br /><br />What do you think would help me change my mind? Is it too late, because of the price of comics? I worry that it will never be the same again.<br /><br />Has the price of comics changed your opinion?Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-45297935735328838572010-03-01T20:07:00.000-08:002010-03-01T20:17:08.654-08:00What Are You Reading?It's been awhile. I have dropped a lot of books. Some I have kept because I actually like them. It is like comic book reading the way it is supposed to be, I guess.<br /><br />My surprise ongoing favorite has been <strong>Incredible Hercules</strong>. I love Greg <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Pak's</span> scripting, and the interaction between Hercules, Amadeus <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Cho</span>, and the supporting cast is fun and fresh.<br /><br /><strong>Wonder Woman</strong> and <strong>Power Girl</strong> are my "female" go-to books. Gail Simone has lit the fire on the Amazon's book, taking it from a so-so title to a great one. She has re-energized the Amazons and given Diana a new lease on life. I appreciate Aaron <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Lopresti's</span> art on the book- he draws strong female characters without being too heavy on the sexy tip.<br /><br />Speaking of art, Amanda Conner makes it look like she was born to draw Power Girl. Her art is fun and exciting, and I appreciate the symbiosis with Jimmy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Palmiotti</span> on the book.<br /><br /><strong>The Boys</strong> is my current "favorite" read. Garth Ennis and Darrick Robertson have taken a twisted concept and added heart to it. Sometimes putting a mirror up to society and mixing in the traditional association of "valiant teams" into a dark blender can be an eye-opener. It certainly is here.<br /><br />The only X-Title I am currently getting is <strong>Uncanny X-Men</strong>. Though Terry Dodson and Greg Land on art chores wouldn't be my first pick, Matt Fraction is inspired as a writer. If I didn't know any better, he is having as much fun writing it as I have reading it.<br /><br />I have also followed <strong>Blackest Night</strong> and enjoyed it despite not buying the tie-in books other then <strong>Green Lantern</strong>. I am anxiously awaiting the hopefully astounding conclusion.<br /><br />What are you reading? Can you <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">recommend</span> me something that I am missing? I would certainly appreciate it as I don't go to comic book stores very often and don't have that point of reference.Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-17396018161159578292010-02-25T19:29:00.000-08:002010-02-25T19:40:52.482-08:00Retirement Homes Circa 2040In the past couple of years I have had the opportunity to visit my grandparents in a retirement home and observe the activities that occur therein. It seems pleasant enough, and I hope to be able to afford senior living someday.<br /><br />My sister and I were having a conversation a couple of weeks ago and ever since then I have been thinking about what I can expect at a retirement home when it is my time. Since my generation and younger is so computer savvy, and since the general outlook on life has continued to evolve, it should be pretty interesting.<br /><br /><strong>Retirement homes now:</strong><br />Bingo and Gin Rummy<br />Day trips to events like the county fair or home show<br />General telephone usage<br />Lawrence Welk and Big Band music<br />Black and White movies, big on westerns<br />A tendency to dress up in nice slacks and button down shirts and/or pantsuits<br />Remembering those that fought in World War II<br />General calisthenics and physical therapy<br />Saying "darn it"<br />Lots of pride when the grandkids visit<br /><br /><strong>Retirement homes circa 2040:</strong><br />Virtual X-Box tournaments<br />Trips to rock shows and lots of concern over if the mosh pit is going to be a hip breaker<br />Texting my homies while surfing the net and checking Facebook<br />Jay-Z and Metallica blaring on the sound system<br />Tarantino and Die Hard film festivals<br />Blingy Christian Audiger t-shirts and ripped jeans<br />Remembering those who fought for the last copy of Avatar 3D on virtual DVD<br />Wii Fit and body pump with intermittent trips to pump iron<br />Saying "f*#k it"<br />Lots of pride when the grandkids visit<br /><br />Okay, maybe some things never change.<br /><br />I just know that it will be fun finding out how we will roll, especially with so much technology at our fingertips. I wonder how we will act and if we will mellow with age or if we will continue to seek continuous instant gratification.<br /><br />What do you think?Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-72977855577791386572010-02-24T19:07:00.000-08:002010-02-24T19:16:37.618-08:00I'm Back....After a long absence, I am here announcing my renewed presence. It has been crazy in "life" and lots of things have consumed my time.<br /><br />The biggest "non time" problem is that I only get comic books once a month. Also, I haven't had time to read the comic book news or check out other blogs. I am pretty much lost when it comes to current comic book affairs. That has made it tough to blog.<br /><br />What is bringing me back?<br /><br />For one, the <a href="http://www.emeraldcitycomicon.com/">Emerald City Comicon</a> is coming up on March 13 and 14 in Seattle. I will be volunteering at the HERO Initiative booth and Jim will be there with his artists, conducting business over at artist alley.<br /><br />Original art has also become an interest, though I don't have the capital to invest in it. Watching <a href="http://http//sequentialtreasures.blogspot.com/">what Jim does</a> and how the market has beared up during the poor economic times has been fascinating to say the least.<br /><br />Last but not least, I missed you guys. :-)<br /><br />Stay tuned for thoughts, musings, and rants.... I have a Stan Lee one coming out next!Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-67133015302187966332009-09-14T20:16:00.001-07:002009-09-14T20:27:51.555-07:00Rest In Peace: Patrick Swayze<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQXFiAXuoyCUZnCauqW5fkkyk1ehZ1ktqNm8PZjEGQVBH__sXCDc-zdvmebYsdMert0Ntz2PtWLE39HCOx9noAAqd2MC-0gDKZOEocnnVB5fd894cWSJLVx-Q4GZH5QrXIJAtX/s1600-h/road_house.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381530714364388802" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 218px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQXFiAXuoyCUZnCauqW5fkkyk1ehZ1ktqNm8PZjEGQVBH__sXCDc-zdvmebYsdMert0Ntz2PtWLE39HCOx9noAAqd2MC-0gDKZOEocnnVB5fd894cWSJLVx-Q4GZH5QrXIJAtX/s320/road_house.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>What an awful day in this world. Actor Patrick Swayze has succumbed to pancreatic cancer at the age of 57. He leaves behind a beautiful wife, Lisa, and a legion of fans that span the generations. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Swayze first entered my radar in The Outsiders. In a cast of teen idols, he came off as the paternal one. Good looking and emotional, Swayze looked to have a bright future. Then there was Red Dawn. What a moment in time that was! Anyone have a favorite moment from those two movies?</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>"No one puts Baby in a corner" was burned into our collective brains in Dirty Dancing. My sister and I couldn't believe how sexy and sensitive he was. Sigh. Not gonna lie about that one now. The movie had it's hokey moments, but it continues to delight audiences.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Then there was Road House. Whew! Playing Dalton, the tough but tender bouncer, this is where I truly learned to love the Swayze. When it comes on television to this day, the hubby and I may stop to watch. This film is one of my favorite old school gems.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I know a lot of folks are fans of Ghost, but I prefer Swayze's macho turn in Point Break. Between Keanu Reeves and him, it was quite a treat for both the ladies and the action fan in general. I absolutely love this movie and I know my husband has a soft spot for it as well.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Rather then going through the rest of his <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000664/">filmography,</a> I would like to take a moment and cheris the Saturday Night Live skit Swayze did with Chris Farley. You know what I am talking about! The Chippendales tryout skit that solidified Farley's comedic genius was also a triumph for our man. It took a lot of guts to let it all hang out and be the straight man to Farley.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I will remember Patrick Swayze as a remarkable dancer, a devoted husband, and a guilty pleasure of sorts. He was one of the good guys, despite a few road bumps along the way. God Speed to you, Mr. Swayze. You have earned your rest. </div>Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-23617155691280281812009-09-12T12:42:00.000-07:002009-09-12T12:51:48.354-07:00Marvel and DC Shake Things Up... Another OpinionSo Disney bought Marvel, huh? DC is now DC Entertainment and has a female chief? Interesting. Am I supposed to go into a cold sweat and panic now? That's just not going to happen.<br /><br />God knows that sometimes things need a good shakeup. The fans and pundits have certainly said so numerous times. Here is the golden opportunity on a platter, right?<br /><br />I work in animal health, and in the last 15 years there have been several shake ups and mergers. These changes affect the employees and some lose their jobs. It also makes things seem uncertain and gives the end user cause for pause. What inevitably happens is that the top sellers go along like clockwork while the slow selling products and antiquated thinkers take a hike.<br /><br />For better or for worse.<br /><br />These companies aren't always right. There are inevitably speed bumps. Some folks don't like the new status quo. It is always full of changes and adjustments. Getting used to having new management and ideas that aren't what fit with our own ideals can be the hardest part. Embracing change isn't easy.<br /><br />That being said, do I think that comics will change? Not really. From everything I have read and seen, there is an awareness that people are in place that can handle the paper portion of the proceedings.<br /><br />What fascinates me is the changes that will be visible to the non-comic book reader. Will we walk the aisles of our local stores and see even more merchandise? Will there be more presence on our smart phones? Will video games be a bigger factor? I say yes to all the above.<br /><br />At this point as an old school fan, I want to embrace change and take the ride. I challenge the new powers involved in these endeavors to give me a reason to be excited and joyful. It would be a nice feeling.Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-12017984530184806762009-09-08T19:54:00.001-07:002009-09-08T20:04:49.525-07:00Randomly Weird Moment of the DayToday during lunch, I went to the bank, whick is located in a Safeway grocery store. To my great surprise, I found that I couldn't get through to park my car.<br /><br />Why, you may ask?<br /><br />Two elderly gentlemen were parked in the middle of the driveway in a large Impala. One was sitting in the car while the second was standing behind a Cadillac Escalade that was parked in a handicapped spot.<br /><br />I put my car in park, noting that there were at least SIX cars behind me. I called to the man outside the car and asked if he thought he could move so that traffic could filter through.<br /><br />His reply: "Nope. We are busy turning in this car that is illegally parked in a handicapped spot".<br /><br />I asked "do you think you could park next to it so that traffic can get through?"<br /><br />His crabby reply: "No. We are doing important citizen's business here today."<br /><br />My (still calm) answer: "You need to move. You are blocking traffic and causing a serious potential for accidents."<br /><br />Him: "Nope. You all have to wait."<br /><br />Me (hysterically): "There are cars backed up to the road now. It is dangerous. Move now."<br /><br />Him: glares at me and doesn't move.<br /><br />Me: "I am calling 911. You are causing a hazard."<br /><br />Him: "To hell with you all. I am almost finished."<br /><br />In the meantime, the guy behind me has gotten out of his car and is swearing at the two old guys. There is lots of honking. A store employee has come out and is observing the scene. It is chaos.<br /><br />The senior citizens pull into the next spot. I hear this:<br /><br />"Just wait until this happens to you. You kids don't appreciate a damn thing we have done for you!"<br /><br />We all are able to proceed to parking spots and go about our business. I count 18 cars behind mine. Yikes.<br /><br />As I walk in, the store employee is still getting an earful from the old guy about his rights as a senior citizen...<br /><br /><strong>Moral of the story: Two wrongs don't make a right.</strong><br /><br />For the record, my grandma is in a wheel chair, and I have been very upset at seeing non-handicapped (lazy) types use those spots. I just don't see how blocking traffic and making a scene is going to fix things.Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-13140598157386279482009-09-08T19:49:00.000-07:002009-09-08T19:53:16.408-07:00Awesomely Bad 1980's Hair: Vixen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzi96zrDdEZVVIx-UV2F8XTEAie6m1pUaLe3NKeoSK2AfIkXqXxpvZr44-MC91YxAQtVsKyOzvR65DIHXr_JVFfdwlGNRfxP4R9Hzfbz1TXPFkAfLaOY4pnR2CNsvlHS_MznY/s1600-h/JLA+234.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379295230596553890" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 211px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDzi96zrDdEZVVIx-UV2F8XTEAie6m1pUaLe3NKeoSK2AfIkXqXxpvZr44-MC91YxAQtVsKyOzvR65DIHXr_JVFfdwlGNRfxP4R9Hzfbz1TXPFkAfLaOY4pnR2CNsvlHS_MznY/s320/JLA+234.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>While I am picking on the Detroit Justice League of America, I might as well confess my extreme hatred of Vixen's hair. I know that to some it was a creative, awesome look, but to me it just looked... weird.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Vixen is sporting a mullet of sorts, with beautiful braids in the back, but a strange, scary, faux ears thing going on in front. It was hard for me to see a character that was supposed to be a model looking so funny. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>What did you think of her look?</div><div> </div><div>Pictured: Cover to Justice League of America Vol. 1 #234.</div>Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-30339986459855213152009-09-02T18:19:00.001-07:002009-09-02T18:24:37.629-07:00Awesomely Bad 1980's Costumes: Vibe<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCi7T4_XaqfFa9rbmOc6QzJcfSY1CVadHnaNV7tBWP6FV8lAc4WIV4zFBSlf5QBJXVaEscLD1Wi0n81YfmaD9oDuo2L7BMU3Q9GSv8Kzhe61mlqZ3PaUvJ_NnA2-hLh9gHNHd/s1600-h/jla+233.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377045758285432658" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCi7T4_XaqfFa9rbmOc6QzJcfSY1CVadHnaNV7tBWP6FV8lAc4WIV4zFBSlf5QBJXVaEscLD1Wi0n81YfmaD9oDuo2L7BMU3Q9GSv8Kzhe61mlqZ3PaUvJ_NnA2-hLh9gHNHd/s320/jla+233.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>When the Justice League of America broke up it was sad. Then Aquaman, Martian Manhunter, and Zatanna moved things to Detroit and picked up four new members. The one I would like to focus on tonight is Vibe.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Dressed in stylish yellow pants with black and orange on the pockets, this 1980's dreamboat was a sight to behold. His v-neck black and yellow top only served to accent this. Top off the outfit with a red bandana, green shades and gloves, and a what appears to be a fabulous mullet, Vibe is definitely on my list of "awesomely bad" costumes.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I defy any artist in comics today to make this character cool.</div><br /><div><br />There- the gauntlet has been thrown. Heh.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong>What did you think of Vibe?</strong></div>Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-66185872379421187542009-08-16T17:59:00.001-07:002009-08-16T18:00:51.350-07:00Life and Stuff...Well, once again my good intentions are for nothing. First I went on vacation to the county fair to watch the nephews. Then it was back out of town again. Then I got sick.<br /><br />Crap.<br /><br />The good news is that I am feeling better today. The bad news is that my comics have pretty much gone unread.<br /><br />Hopefully today is the day!!<br /><br />I hope life is treating you all well. I am trying to get caught up on my blog reading as well, so I hope to catch up on that as well.<br /><br />Comics still rule though!Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7747146.post-3572076260701761562009-07-25T13:49:00.000-07:002009-07-25T13:59:21.451-07:00Comics Fairplay: 5 Years of Blog-foolery and More!For the last year, I have not been very active on my blog. I have meant to, and have actually had things brewing in my head that I really wanted to write about. It is always good intentions lately. My husband and I talked about the fact that I am not doing a very good job blogging. In a nice way, he asked me if I thought I ought to retire the blog.<br /><br />For a month I thought about it. Hard. I just can't do it.<br /><br />Today is the 5 year anniversary of the creation of Comics Fairplay and I carry mixed emotions. Without CF, I wouldn't have met so many wonderful people. The list is so long, and the folks are so precious to me, that I hardly dare to list them. CF gave me an entry way to vent my feelings and frustrations about an industry that continues to confound me in every possible way. It also gave me a chance to give my opinions about feminism and comics. I like to think that in a blogosphere that was ready to rumble, I was a voice of sanity.<br /><br />So it is down to this: until I am ready to sit down and declare myself content with all things comics, this place can't go away. Though I only post once or twice a week, I still feel a sense of passion about the industry. What I encounter as a stumbling block is TIME. My life has been through so many changes in the last five years! I have lost family, have had a roller coaster ride of changes at work, I lost and gained many pounds, and I faced the most horrific challenge a person can face.<br /><br />The good news is I am still standing. I still believe that there is a place for women to read and create comics. It happens every day, Folks. I think that the industry is more powerful then ever with the avalanche of success of several comic book movies. I do cringe at the San Diego Comicon though- it has become celebrity central, and its own size threatens to swallow it whole. Give me Emerald City Comicon any day of the week!<br /><br />Five years. Joy. Pain. Terror. Anger, Happiness. Friendship. Hate. Love.<br /><br />It has all been here. Let's continue the ride a little bit longer, shall we?Heidi Meeleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01436991028382498324noreply@blogger.com7