The Babbling Scribe

Relocating...

2009-08-02T10:27:00.001-04:00

So as not to have to update multiple blogs, I am closing out this one (for now at least). I will be posting exclusively on wordpress from this point on.
Please head over there: http://thewriter425.wordpress.com

The awesome health benefits of chocolate!

2009-07-31T20:22:00.004-04:00

Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
by Kimberly Wesley
St. Louis Weight Loss Examiner

Healthy? Chocolate? Sounds like a dream come true for many. Yet scientists are uncovering facts that dark chocolate has many healthy aspects.

How can chocolate be healthy? Many people forget that chocolate is a plant-based food. It’s actually a fruit. It grows in bunches on a cocoa tree. Up until the mid 1800s, chocolate was only used as a drink. The chocolate that became very popular in the past had only 11-15% chocolate actually in it. The rest--milk and sugar.

Chocolate is packed with flavonoids, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from aging caused by free radicals, which can cause damage that leads to heart disease. Flavonoids also help relax blood pressure through the production of nitric oxide, and balance certain hormones in the body. In fact, ounce for ounce, dark chocolate and cocoa have more antioxidants than do foods like blueberries, green tea and red wine.

The key is to pick good quality dark chocolate, not milk chocolate or white chocolate, which has too much sugar and not enough pure chocolate in it to be healthy. Look for at least 70% dark chocolate. The taste will be a bit bitter, but you only need a small amount a day to reap the benefits.

Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate:

Lower Blood Pressure: Studies have shown that consuming a small bar of dark chocolate everyday can reduce blood pressure in individuals with high blood pressure.
Lower Cholesterol: Dark chocolate has also been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) by up to 10 percent.
It stimulates endorphin production, which gives a feeling of pleasure
It contains serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant
It contains theobromine, caffeine and other substances which are stimulants
It is good to know that chocolate contains ingredients beneficial to our health. However, it does not necessarily mean you should eat more chocolate products. Chocolate bars and candies are often high in fat, sugar and calories. Moderation is always the key - having a decadent piece of chocolate once in a while is not going to harm your health, either. If you have a choice, choose dark chocolate for its higher flavonoid content.

Check food labels when shopping for dark chocolate. Chocolate with ingredients such as milk fat, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, coconut or palm oil contains the more harmful saturated fats (those that increase blood cholesterol levels, putting both arteries and heart at risk).

Common Pitfalls
Overindulging, a common dilemma when one square of chocolate is not enough, may contribute to unexpectedly packing on those pounds. Portion control is a key factor to maintaining an adequate weight while reaping the benefits of dark chocolate's antioxidant effect.

http://www.examiner.com/x-12980-St-Louis-Weight-Loss-Examiner~y2009m7d27-Health-benefits-of-dark-chocolate
--------------------

I LOVE chocolate, dark more than anything. My new favorite bars are Green & Blacks Organic Dark Chocolate and Hershey's Bliss Dark Chocolate bars. The organic bars are obviously better for you health-wise, but sometimes I can't get them where I shop (Whole Foods is a once a week trip since it's on the other side of town). Either way, I try to eat a dark chocolate bar once a week, working it into my calories. Definitely a great way to end a day. :)

Obesity Rates of Americans

2009-07-31T18:58:00.002-04:00

Effort needed to turn around obesity rates

By The Pantagraph Editorial Board | Posted: Monday, July 27, 2009 12:00 am |

If only losing weight were as easy as buying a book, then we wouldn't be faced with reports about the ever growing waistline of the average American.

The latest report from the Trust for American's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation says obesity rates increased in nearly half the states last year. Not one state had a decrease.

How could that be when "Cook Yourself Thin" tops the paperback advice category of the New York Times bestseller list? Four of the top 10 in that category deal with improving our eating habits ("Martha Stewart's Cupcakes" doesn't count.)

A look in the hardcover advice category gives us "Master Your Metabolism" by Jillian Michaels, a trainer and coach on NBC's "The Biggest Loser."

But who will the biggest loser be when obese baby boomers - and their obesity-related illnesses - fill the Medicare rolls? The report says baby boomers have a higher obesity rate than any prior generation.

According to the report - whose short title is "F as in Fat" - four states have an adult obesity rate of more than 30 percent: Mississippi, Alabama, West Virginia and Tennessee. In 1991, no state had a rate above 20 percent.

Today, more than 25 percent of adults are obese in 31 states, including Illinois, which ranks 27th at 25.9 percent.

Illinois fares even more poorly when it comes to children. Our state has the 10th highest percentage of youths ages 10 to 17 who are overweight or obese - 34.9 percent. That is despite Illinois being among the few states with a requirement for daily physical education in school.

But many schools are granted waivers for that requirement and not all physical education classes include a lot of physical movement.

Among the report's recommendations is to "increase the frequency, intensity and duration of physical activity at school." It also calls for limiting "screen time" - time spent in front of a television set, computer screen or videogame.

Limiting screen time applies to adults, too, as does a suggestion that employers provide workplace wellness programs.

But we shouldn't depend on schools or employers to force us to take steps that we can and should be taking ourselves.

Going for a family walk or bike ride after dinner or on weekends would help fight obesity among both adults and children, for example.

The continued upward trend in overweight and obesity rates will be costly to our health and our wallets - through increased health care expenditures. We need to reverse this trend.

Posted in Editorial on Monday, July 27, 2009 12:00 am Updated: 12:40 pm.
http://www.pantagraph.com/news/opinion/editorial/article_bd399804-7b9d-11de-b7b1-001cc4c002e0.html

It's Friday!

2009-07-31T14:03:00.002-04:00

It's Friday and I couldn't be happier. Yes, I work for four hours tomorrow, but then I'm free until Monday at 12:30pm! I've got a number of errands/things to accomplish during the 1 1/2 days of the weekend I have including getting some writing work done, shopping (Whole Foods/Fresh Market and Publix), bringing in my sunglasses for repair since they are scratched already, clothes shopping for New York (and generally, as I don't have a lot that fits these days), and a few other things here and there. Overall, I want to get things done and have some 'down time' in there as well.

Also, I am very happy that I'm almost off a cycle of a pill my doctor changed for me last month. I did ask for something cheaper, but it hasn't had me feeling well and all, so I am anxious to simply go back to what I had been on and just deal with paying a bit more for it for now. Sometimes cheaper isn't better!

Organic food is no healthier says study

2009-07-30T19:35:00.002-04:00

Organic food is no healthier, study finds
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090729/hl_nm/us_food_organic

Wed Jul 29, 12:29 pm ET

LONDON (Reuters) – Organic food has no nutritional or health benefits over ordinary food, according to a major study published Wednesday.

Researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine said consumers were paying higher prices for organic food because of its perceived health benefits, creating a global organic market worth an estimated $48 billion in 2007.

A systematic review of 162 scientific papers published in the scientific literature over the last 50 years, however, found there was no significant difference.

"A small number of differences in nutrient content were found to exist between organically and conventionally produced foodstuffs, but these are unlikely to be of any public health relevance," said Alan Dangour, one of the report's authors.

"Our review indicates that there is currently no evidence to support the selection of organically over conventionally produced foods on the basis of nutritional superiority."

The results of research, which was commissioned by the British government's Food Standards Agency, were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Sales of organic food have fallen in some markets, including Britain, as recession has led consumers to cut back on purchases.

The Soil Association said in April that growth in sales of organic products in Britain slowed to just 1.7 percent in 2008, well below the average annual growth rate of 26 percent over the last decade, following a plunge in demand at the end of the year.

(Reporting by Ben Hirschler; editing by Simon Jessop)

------------

Um, I believe this story is crap. Of course organic is healthier, it doesn't contain artificial garbage. This story is going to be proven wrong easily.

Legs are sore tonight

2009-07-28T20:29:00.002-04:00

Ah yes, working out and soreness. They kind of go hand in hand don't they? Well, for me, they honestly haven't in awhile. So, while no one likes to be sore, I'm thinking this is a good thing. I've been experiencing a weight-loss plateau now trying to get the last six pounds off, so this could be a good sign. I decided I really needed to change up my workouts this week and pump up the intensity as much as I could. No, it's not easy, but some say this is a big key in getting over the hurdle known as the plateau. So, here's hoping for some results on that scale soon! :)

The Convention Scene 2009

2009-07-27T23:41:00.001-04:00

Since I've been asked, I just wanted to address my con appearances for this year. I have decided to focus on getting a lot done writing-wise the remainder of 2009, so I won't be doing anymore shows. Most likely, my next con will be Megacon 2010. The show will also be the first appearance of my photography work, as I will be featuring and selling photos at my tables from that point on.

In the meanwhile, I can be found online blogging, twittering and the like about not only my writings, my photography work, but also randomness. :)

Fly Away Home

2009-07-24T20:38:00.001-04:00

Fledgling fowl takes flight from Philadelphia Zoo

PHILADELPHIA – Attention, bird watchers: A flamboyant feathered friend has apparently flown the coop at the Philadelphia Zoo.

Zoo officials say the juvenile sun conure (CON'-yer) parrot disappeared Thursday during the Festival of Flight bird show. Spokesman Bill Larson says the zoo is very worried about the bird.

Larson says the birds are trained to fly from one perch to another for the show but can get distracted or frightened and lose their way.

The AWOL avian is mostly yellow with a green tail.

Anyone who catches a glimpse of the bird is asked to alert the zoo.

--------

Hopefully, the little guy (or gal) is okay. While living in the "wild" is good, these birds don't know any life but the way they had been living, so I hope he stays safe and finds his way back home soon.

Fla. cops catch man running with cash register

2009-07-24T20:33:00.002-04:00

Fla. cops catch man running with cash register

Fri Jul 24, 3:33 pm ET

GREENACRES, Fla. – Authorities caught a Lake Worth man running down the street with a stolen cash register. Greenacres police reported that a 32-year-old man entered a restaurant Thursday afternoon and asked for change for a $10 bill. When the cashier asked to see the bill, the man reportedly began screaming, "I want change!"

Police said the man then grabbed about $40 from a tip box, picked up the cash register containing nearly $300 and ran out.

The officers who arrested the suspect after a short chase had just come from reviewing surveillance footage at a nearby connivence store, where lottery tickets had been stolen a day earlier. By chance, the officers identified the man as the thief from the footage.

The man was being held on $21,000 bail for multiple charges.

(Information from: The Palm Beach Post, http://www.pbpost.com)

------

This is just sad and hilarious at the same time. And, I didn't even know there was a city in Florida named Green Acres which is funny.

The future

2009-07-24T20:18:00.000-04:00

I've got a feeling that something oh so good is coming for me this year... there has to be some kind of great opportunity heading my way. Yes, things have been okay, but I need things to be even better. I need to wake up one day and think, "wow, this is my life and I love it!" Whether that means a career opportunity, another move or what, I don't know. But, something deep down in my gut is telling me, "stay tuned, it's going to get better."

With that in mind, I am going to greet the weekend with my head held high and my dreams big. :)

Darn, the weekend is about over

2009-07-19T22:39:00.002-04:00

Meaning, tomorrow begins another week of work. I'm really looking forward to going up to New York in a little over a month for vacation. Going to be a definite blast! :)

Anyway, I did Scott Kelby's Worldwide Photo Walk on Saturday after work. I have yet to look at the shots I got (rained, so left early), so hopefully I'll do this either tomorrow night or before work Tuesday. Downtown Orlando is a great place for a photographer to roam, it's just too bad that the rain chased me away. Going to have to go back one today soon and take some more pictures.

Oh yes, it has been way too long!

2009-07-10T23:15:00.002-04:00

I have abandoned this blog for way too long. That is about to change, as I'm going to be updating here regularly again about my writing projects, conventions and what have you.

That said, I haven't been on the convention circuit much this year and that is most likely going to stay that way. Presently, I am concentrating on getting some projects going again and others started. I hope to have a lot of new books to show off in 2010.

What am I working on now? Current projects on my plate include.... THE LINE, HYPERSONIC, BLOOD IN THE SKY, YOUTHFUL FLIGHT, and TO ASHEVILLE AND BACK. Haven't heard of most of those? That would be due to the fact that they haven't been really announced. BLOOD IN THE SKY is my novel based upon a true crime that I have been working on since last November, YOUTHFUL FLIGHT is a comic book mini that is in its very infant stages and TO ASHEVILLE AND BACK is the story of my adventure of moving out of Florida to the mountains and then back again last year. More on those three soon!

2007 Appearance Schedule

2007-01-11T21:39:00.000-05:00

Ok, here's my tentative schedule of appearances for the year. I will update as needed. I look forward to an awesome con year! :)

FX Show, FL - January
Megacon, FL - February
Big Apple Con, NY - April
Tampa Comic & Toy Con, FL - May
Heroes Con, NC - June
Tampa Comic Book & Toy Con, FL - August
Orlando Comic Con, FL - September
Supercon 3, FL - December

I am going to be most likely doing a signing in NYC at Midtown in April when I am up as well. More on that soon!

Big changes coming

2006-09-30T22:30:00.000-04:00

There are some big changes in the works for 2007 for me. It's still early, but I should know for sure by November. Stay tuned if you are interested.

Been awhile, eh?

2006-09-06T19:57:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's been a crazy, crazy summer for me. Lots going on. Speaking of which....

I'll be at the Baltimore Comic Con this weekend! Misfit Comics will be set up at table #28. I'll be there with The Line #1 & #2 (and some pages from the anticipated issue #3 that Eric has been working on). Also, I've still got some 11x17 prints of Mike Oeming's cover for issue #1 for those interested. If that wasn't enough, the first-ever Misfit anthology will be premiering this weekend at the con! NOTAFINGA! features stories by yours truly, and Alysha & Colin McK (all art by Colin). I promise that you won't find another comic like this one, so be sure to check it out! And, Colin & Alysha will be premiering issue #1 of their new on-going series, Full Figure Porn!

This weekend is going to be all kinda of fun! I'll try to post some pics and such during the con if I find the time. Otherwise, look for a report and pics next Tuesday, the 12th!

(Those wondering what the hold-up with issue #3 of The Line is, Eric has been having some personal obstacles to work through the last couple months. But, rest assured, he IS working on the book as we speak and the book is going to be more than worth the wait, that I guarantee you! The pages he has been turning in are blowing me away. Thank you for your patience. )

The Line can now be found at these retailers!

2006-05-08T15:27:00.000-04:00

Presently, The Line can be ordered online via comixpress or found at these comic shops.

Coliseum of Comics Orlando
4722 S. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32839

Bad Apple Comics
8110 S. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32809

Comics and Paperbacks Plus
201 E. Main St.
Palmyra, PA 17078

And, sometime this week at these stores:

Samurai Comics
10720 W. Indian School Road, Suite 61
Phoenix, AZ

Comic Swap, Inc.
110 South Fraser St.
State College, PA 16801

Meltdown Comics
7522 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90046

Thanks for the support!

SEVEN UP interview at THE PULSE

2006-04-28T22:08:00.000-04:00

I recently did an interview with Len Wallace of The Pulse.
You can check it out here.

A Comical Christmas

2006-04-04T02:19:00.000-04:00

For those that check my site, you may have seen this in my projects section (if not, when you have a minute, check out the preview I've got up of the story art by Colin McK). Originally, it was supposed to premiere in the first-ever Misfit Comics anthology at Wizard World Chicago 2005. Obviously, this did not happen.
Anyway, I'm posting to say that the story and the antho WILL finally be published this summer. The book will most likely premiere at Baltimore Comic Con in September. More on the exact timing and release as soon as I know.

Megacon 2006

2006-03-12T01:01:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I realize I never posted about Megacon. Sorry about that. I actually got sick after the show and spend last weekend recovering.
Anyway, I thought I'd post a few pics at least. The show itself was good. I didn't sell as many copies of the book as I hoped to, but I did decently well. Thanks again to Derrick Fish and Marc Hammond for sharing their table space with me. Be sure to check out their book, Tales to Amaze!

George Perez with Scarlet Witch and the Vison!

Raven Gregory & Marlin Shoop (Marlin is the artist on the upcoming book, "The Waking" with Raven)

Dollar bill signed on Sunday night by some at the wrap dinner at Adobe Gillas.

Raven Gregory and Marc Hammond.

Derrick Fish and myself at the table.

The Line #2 at Comixpress

2006-02-10T16:50:00.000-05:00

You can now order The Line #2 at Comixpress. The book is $3.00 for 28 pages of ass-kicking story (32 page book). And, if you have yet to pick up issue #1, it is still available on Comixpress as well. Thanks!

Fri/Sat at FX

2006-01-28T23:21:00.000-05:00

Friday night there weren't many attendees at all. Thus, it was a very slow four hours. As far as how things started out...well, they put me in front of the hotties of FX. Yup, the adult "stars." I feared this when I saw the layout. Unfortunately, there wasn't anything to be done about it. I feel like I might be losing potential sales being in the location that I am. Also, the con had nothing covering the tables. This wouldn't be so bad except that the tables are very old looking. And, they wrote each creator's name on the spaces with chalk. If only they would have informed us that we needed to provided a table covering beforehand. On the good side, my neighbor to the right of me was kind enough to share his tablecloth that he brought in Saturday. So, again thank you to Mark Mekkes for that. :)

Saturday was alright. Didn't sell even close to near as many books as I had planned on or wanted to. Was much busier at least. Lots of people wandering through. I did get to chat a bit with fellow creators like Chuck Dixon, Phil Noto, Mario Gully, Joe Fauvel, and Derrick Fish as well as guys like Brian and Dwayne from Comic Book Conventions.com. Also, I meet a fellow Bendis Boarder on Friday. He told me that he doesn't really post, but he lurks the board. Always cool meeting folks from the boards. I'll be meeting the Serenity guys tommorrow, something I am very much looking forward to. :)

More on the con tommorrow night, as well as pics!

FX Show!

2006-01-27T11:59:00.000-05:00

The FX Show starts tonight and runs through Sunday.
http://www.fxshow.com

If you are in the Central Florida area, check it out! I'll have copies of The Line issues #1 & #2 on hand, as well as some signed 11x17 prints of Mike Oeming's cover for issue one.

I'll be posting pics and mini reports throughout the weekend. :)

Hypersonic

2006-01-22T14:51:00.000-05:00

Here's a look at my next project. It's a superhero mini I'm doing with co-creator/artist Chris McCarver. More on this soon! (click on image for larger version)

The Line #2 out January 27th!

2006-01-07T17:09:00.000-05:00

Yes, the issue will finally be available for purchase! It will premiere at the FX show here in Orlando the 27th-29th. If you aren't attending the con, you will be able to get a copy at comixpress' site around that time or through me after the con.

Also, I've been hard at work on a few other projects that will be out this year, including a teen superhero mini with a fellow Bendis Boarder. More on that soon!

Megacon 2006

2005-12-13T13:37:00.000-05:00

Well, bad news. Since I've been very low on funds lately (and have yet to recover the money owed from a months old debt), artist alley for the con has sold out. Thus, I'm basically screwed. This is a big disappointment for me. I really wanted to set up at the show, since it would be the first year for me in Arist Alley there. This means, unless something changes, I will not be at the show. :(

Limited edition cover for The Line #2

2005-11-04T03:21:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak peek at the limited edition cover for issue #2. Artwork by Derrick Fish (Dandy & Company).

National Big Apple Con

2005-10-10T00:05:00.000-04:00

Looks like I WON'T be at this con afterall. Few factors involved in making that appearance impossible right now. I WILL be at the Tampa Comic & Toy Con on November 20th though, here in Florida. After that will be FX 2006 at the end of January.

2006 Convention Schedule

2005-09-15T00:06:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to get a tentative schedule set for 2006. Thus far, I know I will be at these shows:

FX 2006 (Orlando, FL)
January 27th-29th

Megacon (Orlando, FL)
February 24th-26th

Wizard World Philly
June 2nd-4th

Wizard World Chicago
August ???

Baltimore Comic Con
September ???

I'm hoping to also attend Heroes Con at the end of June, as well as Emerald City in April. I WILL be making at least one NYC appearance next year. If I don't attend Emerald City, it will most likely be the March/April Big Apple Con, otherwise it will be the National Big Apple Con in November.
If anyone reading this is a fellow creator and would be interested in sharing a table or whatnot for Emerald City or Heroes Con, let me know! :)

Hope

2005-09-04T12:51:00.000-04:00

I have signed on to write a short story for the Ronin Studios anthology to benefit those affected by Hurricane Katrina. The book will focus on New Orleans and the state of Louisiana theme-wise. More on this soon.

Tampa Con Sunday!

2005-08-26T12:14:00.000-04:00

I'll be set up at the Tampa Comic & Toy Con this Sunday from 10am-4pm. I'll have copies of The Line with me, as well as some signed 11x17 prints of Oeming's cover (he signed them in Chicago). So, if you are in the area, stop by and say "hi!" :)
http://comicbookconventions.com/tampaconvention/index.htm

Personal journal

2005-08-18T13:26:00.000-04:00

For anyone interested, I have a live journal going that I'm using again for my personal musings and whatnot. This blog is just for my writing and comic stuff (basically, updates). So, if you're interested, go here.

Misfit Comics Changes

2005-08-15T15:26:00.000-04:00

Just released a press release the middle of last week concerning Tessana Nemenski and Kayla Tepps. They have decided to leave the studio and pursue their book, "The Distance" elsewhere.

Also, I should have an announcement about a new project in the coming weeks. Once things get better set, I will post about it here.

WWChi Wrap Up

2005-08-08T11:48:00.000-04:00

What a crazy show! There was SO much going on! I'm going to post a report of some sort once I get back home, as I'm still in Chi-town right now. What I will say is, changes and announcements are coming in the coming weeks. More soon! :)

Off to Chi-town!

2005-08-04T02:22:00.000-04:00

I will be leaving on a jetplane in a few hours. Not sure when I will be posting here this weekend. I may be doing a daily diary thing for the Comic Book Bin. If that is the case, I will post the info about that here when I can.
More soon! :)

Wizard World Chicago!

2005-08-02T03:28:00.000-04:00

WWChi is this week! The con runs from the 4th through the 7th (Thursday night is preview night). Misfit Comics won't be setting up on Thursday evening for Preview Night. But, we will be wondering around the con hall checking things out and whatnot.
On hand, we will have The Line #1, now with two covers (Oeming's and series artist, Eric Gravel's), The Distance #1, and the Full Figure Porn Scrapbook. So, if you are attending the con, stop by Artist Alley table #9162 and say "hello!"

Preview of "A Comical Christmas"

2005-07-15T02:23:00.000-04:00

A preview of this short story that is appearing in the "In Every Direction" anthology, can be found on my website. The antho will be premiering at Wizard World Chicago next month.

Marvel HQ Tour

2005-06-25T15:07:00.000-04:00

I was fortunate enough to get a tour of the Marvel Offices. To say I was excited is an understatement. :)
Anyway, I got there a bit before 1pm and took the elevator up. Once up, I was greeted by the secretary. She took my name and called for Joe Quesada. Unfortunately, Joe wasn't in the office. I was told to take a seat and his assistant would be right up.
So, there I am waiting in the lobby for Marvel Comics. The lobby is very nice. Posters and art on the walls and there are Marvel comics there for you to read (though, they are older issues, they even had an issue of Avengers Disassembled there). From where I was sitting, it looked like the top level contained business offices. A huge Marvel banner was hanging on the glass wall and people were coming and going.
I waited for about 10 minutes before Joe's secretary came up. She informed me that Joe was still out of town due to the funeral for Jeph Loeb's son. So, she didn't know if someone could give me the tour since she couldn't. Anyway, I got lucky and Nick Lowe was around and willing to show me around. We went back over to the elevators, as the editorial section of Marvel was one floor down.
Cubicle city! I think this set up is referred to as the Marvel bullpen, I could be wrong though. There are also offices all around the wall. Most of the Editors share actual offices. The X-Men book guys in one, the Ultimate line guys in another, etc.
Nick showed me his office (he works with the X books). On the wall there are clipboards with printouts of the current issue that is being put together. He showed me a few of them (each board has the cover colored, cover inked, cover in pencils and the pages), very cool stuff.
Then, we went over to meet the Ultimate line Editors (pic of me with them later). Spoke with them for awhile. Very cool to meet Ralph finally. Next up were the Hero Editors. Only one was in, but she was very cool (sorry, I'm blanking on her name, she works on The Pulse though). We spoke for a bit and I got to see some cover art.
That was basically it. Nick walked me back through and I got to see inside some of the cubicles. Lots of posters and toys everywhere. It was a fun time! (see pics below)

New York Pics!

2005-06-25T15:03:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics from my trip to New York.

BIG APPLE CON!

Tony Harris

Brian K. Vaughan

Michael Lark

Me with BKV and Tony

Jeff and Kat Amano (they came by the con on Saturday)

MARVEL OFFICES!

Front of building that Marvel has taken up two floors of space

Marvel banner (they have a few of these once you get onto their floors)

Joe Quesada's office

Me with the Ultimate Editors (note the wall - those are current issues of books in progress!)

BIG APPLE CON!

2005-06-20T01:28:00.000-04:00

REPORT FOR FRIDAY, JUNE 17th

First day of the con! Since I would be taking the LIRR (Long Island RailRoad) into NYC from my Aunt's house in Long Island, I was forced to deal with the
train's schedule. Thus, I had to get up at 5am to catch a 6:41am train. Now, this time of day isn't a stranger to me, as I am known to stay up til 5 or 6am
writing or whatnot, but waking up at this time was horrid. I only got maybe 5 hours of sleep (thanks in part to a call from Tess :p), so I was exhausted.
Anyway, I got ready and got down to the train station at about 6:35am, bought my ticket ($20 ouch! - and that's just TO Penn Station), and boarded the train
for the two hour trip. (Sidenote: try to never use the bathroom on the LIRR, unless you don't mind that port-a-potty cleanliness...)

I got into Penn Station a little before 9am, which meant I had three hours to kill before the con started. This wouldn't have been so bad, except that I had
my small carry-on rolling bag with me and the idea of dragging that around wasn't very appealing. Still, I decided to get something to eat in Penn Station
and do some exploring. After grabbing a bite to eat, I wanted to locate the Penn Pavilion so I knew where the show would be. Ends up, it was right across
the street attached to the Pennsylvannia Hotel. I found out that I could check in and all that jazz at 11am, so I went off to wander the streets of NYC.

Ok so, after walking around a bit for about 30 minutes and getting bothered a few times by folks trying to hand me crap and whatnot, I ended up getting a
Starbucks frap and heading back to the Hotel to wait it out until I could get into the show. What did I do in the lobby for that time? I basically spyed
on people's conversations. Yeah, I'm getting real good at that too (not sure it's something to brag about), was doing it on the train as well. I even took
notes, I was that bad. :p

Finally, 11am came and I was able to check in and get into the con to set up. Once I got upstairs where the event was being held, the talent director, Allan
helped me find my space. I was amazed to find myself smack dab in the middle of guys like Michael Lark, Brian K. Vaughan and Tony Harris. I never expected
to be located near such awesomely talented folks, people I respect so much. Anyway, I got set up and not long after, Tony Harris and his wife arrived. Tony
is a very cool guy, and his wife is very sweet. I ended up talking to her for a few minutes. Brian K. Vaughan arrived not long after as did Andy MacDonald of
NYC Mech. Andy came by and we spoke for a few minutes. Always great to see and talk to him and Ivan Brandon (who didn't make it to this show).

Anyway, the con went well. I met some great folks, a number of them are BKV Cabal members or Bendis Boarders (Steve Zegers, Mark, BNolan, and many more who's
names are escaping me - I'm so sorry, I feel bad for forgetting names). And, BKV showed me one of his scripts and talked to me a bit about his style, which
was very cool. I love seeing how different each writer is with their approach and styles.

I had to leave the con a bit early to catch the train back (another fun two hour trip). But, Friday was a good time which left me tired, but excited about
Saturday. :)

(Saturday's report coming soon!)

New York bound!

2005-06-15T23:14:00.000-04:00

I'm flying out to New York tommorrow. Going to be there for basically a week. If you're going to the Big Apple Con this Friday and Saturday in NYC, be sure to stop by my table and say "hi!" I'll have copies of The Line #1 and some prints of the cover with me. Pics shall be posted late next week! :)

Oh, and for those interested in convention info: http://www.bigapplecon.com

Cover for 2nd printing of issue #1!

2005-06-10T04:28:00.000-04:00

Issue #1 of The Line will be getting a second printing for Wizard World Chicago this August. While the Oeming cover will still be available, a second cover by artist Eric Gravel will be as well. Check it out!

Eric did an awesome job on it! I'm considering having some posters made of it as well. More info on the 2nd printing in the coming weeks!

"The Line" on IGN

2005-06-07T02:08:00.000-04:00

Hilary Goldstein of IGN has kindly featured The Line as it's current Indy Spotlight book. Head on over to check it out:
http://comics.ign.com/

The direct link to the feature:
http://comics.ign.com/articles/622/622715p1.html

Also, I'm going to the Big Apple Con in NYC next week. More info on that very soon.

Tampa Con Pics

2005-05-11T03:27:00.000-04:00

ComicBookConventions.com has some pics from April's Tampa Con up on their site. There is one photo of me posted.

Also, I may have an artist on board for the teen superhero mini I've mentioned. I should know for sure this week I believe.

Blogger fun

2005-04-29T17:13:00.000-04:00

Wow, I have SO much trouble getting on here to update. Not sure what the deal is, but I've got a few things to post about because of that.

"The Line." The series is NO longer associated with Ronin Studios. It is now with a studio that I am a co-founder of called Misfit Comics. Head on over to the website and check it out: http://www.misfitcomics.biz

Issue #2 of "The Line" still looks to be on target for an August release. And, issue #1 will hit a second printing before WWChi. That printing will see some re-tooling of sorts to the issue. Little things myself and Eric want to tweak. Nothing too major. But, we may be adding some things to the end of the book. I'll keep you updated on that.

And finally, a little report from the Tampa con! My digital camera decided not to work, so I don't have any pics. But, Dwayne from ComicBookConventions.com took a couple and as soon as I get them in my inbox, I will post them. In the meanwhile, here's my con report:

Got to the con late. Friggin huge ass accident on the Interstate. Backed up for miles. At least I beat Ethan Van Sciver to the show (he was stuck in there too).
When I got there, I got set up and I was right up front and had a whole table to myself. I thought that was very cool. Anyway, I sat next to Derrick Fish (Dandy & Company) who is an awesome guy and artist.
Sold a few books during the show, not a whole lot, it is a fairly small show really. Meet some cool folks as well. I also signed a few programs which is fun. Some even had printouts of the webpage with all of the guests pics on it for me to sign.
Did walk around for about 10 minutes and was able to snag #2-#4 of the Scarlet Witch mini I so badly want to finish reading, as well as a complete set of the Vision & Scarlet Witch mini. Good finds!
After the show, I went to dinner with Derrick Fish at this steakhouse a bit down the road. Fajitas were my pick and damn was I hungry! I hadn't had anything to eat less for a granola bar at the show.
All in all, a nice show. I look forward to hopefully doing another Tampa show in the future.

Tampa Convention today!

2005-04-17T00:56:00.000-04:00

I will be a guest at the Tampa Comic & Toy Convention later today here in Florida. If you are in Central Florida and have some time, drop by and say "hello!"
http://www.comicbookconventions.com/tampaconvention/index.htm

Busy, busy

2005-04-14T14:18:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy few weeks. Quick status on some things for those interested. I'm currently writing 4 different books.
-"The Line"
Eric is currently pencilling issue #2 as I am retooling issue #3 and working on issue #4. Timing-wise, it's going pretty well.
-Teen superhero mini-series
Now, this had a possible artist, but since I have yet to hear back, I'm assuming I will need a new one soon. So, if you are an artist and are interested in drawing a four issue mini, let me know.
-Hardcore crime book
I'm keeping pretty tight-lipped on this one. It's something I'm putting a lot of time into. This won't see the light of day until probably summer 2006 or so.
-One-shot journey story
Based on true-life events, this is another book I will be putting out sometime in 2006. More on this one in the coming months.

Also, there will be an announcement next week tha has to do with "The Line," and my future projects.
And, a quick thanks to all those who have picked up "The Line" #1. Thanks so much for your support!

"Mugging" it for the press

2005-03-25T02:35:00.000-05:00

Looks like I made it onto two comic news sites for WWLA coverage. If you want to see me all dorked out, here are the links:
Broken Frontier
The Comic Fanatic

I should be posting the inks for "The Line" poster soon, so stay tuned...

"The Line" on Broken Frontier!

2005-03-24T12:11:00.000-05:00

Broken Frontier was kind enough to feature a five-page preview of issue one. Issue is available now via comixpress or through me directly. Drop me an email more more info.

WWLA: Pictures!

2005-03-23T01:10:00.000-05:00

I swear blogger hates me. I am always having trouble getting onto the site to log in. Anyway, now that I am finally here....
I posted some pics from WWLA on my website here. More to be added soon.

Also, I'm taking a bit of a break from internet. I will be checking my email, but I won't be posting on some of my regular message boards for a time. So, if you are looking for me for whatever reason, please drop me an email for the time being. Thx.

And, I will be doing a full WWLA report within the week. Look for that soon.

WWLA: Day One

2005-03-19T11:26:00.000-05:00

The day went fairly well. Got there about 12pm to set up. Finally met with my fellow Ronin peeps (Batman Booyah, Genius J, Pat Loika) and the Silent Devils guys. We set up and then waited for the con to open!
Friday was pretty slow for us, I only sold a handful of "The Line." But, I did get a lot of lookers. Oh, and someone who looked me up online and wanted to sell me something c ncerning having some sort of clock made of Jessi Myers (my lead from "The Line). That was interesting. Didn't buy the book, just wanted to sell me something it appeared.

Good times were had at the bar (Rockbottom) that evening. I met Geoff Johns and talked to a very drunk Thomas Jane, and of course I talked to many other folks.
I look forward to an awesome Saturday at the show and after!

Day One in LA!

2005-03-18T11:31:00.000-05:00

Nothing overly exciting on Thursday. But, I DID get to sit at Fox Mulder's desk. One of the museums in Hollywood has the actual desk and chair used on the show. That was very cool. I will be posting a pic soon.
Other than that, just took it easy and checked out the area. There will be TONS more to report about later today, post-con. :)

Issue #1 copies arrive & Fanboy Radio appearance!

2005-03-16T23:40:00.000-05:00

I would have posted this yesterday, but I couldn't get onto blogger. Anyway, awesome news! The copies of "The Line" arrived on my doorstep yesterday and they look great! Also, the book can now be purchased via comixpress for those not attending WWLA or any other con I am going to this year.

Also, Scott Hinze and David Hopkins of Fanboy Radio did a short interview with me for today's show. You can download the episode, which features talk of the "State of the Indiestry" in the episode database on the FBR website.

Remember to stop by artist alley table #2031 if you are attending WWLA this weekend! I will not only have copies of the book, but I will have some 11x17s of Oeming's cover, as well as some signed 8 1/2 x 11" prints he signed when he was here for Megacon.

Check back all weekend long for reports on the convention!

Image Comics Boards

2005-03-11T23:15:00.000-05:00

So, apparently, the Image Comics Boards fell victim to a hacker late yesterday. According to the admin, it could take some time for them to recover from the attack. In the meanwhile, you can go to the "back-up" Bendis board on Jinxworld.

Also, "The Line" premieres in a week! If you won't be attending WWLA or WWChi this year and are interested in obtaining a signed copy of the first issue, please drop me an email. Thanks!

Website is online!

2005-03-09T16:17:00.000-05:00

Wooo! Go right here: www.rangerchic.com.
I am working on improving the site, so things will only get better and better there as time rolls on. Also, if you are using Firefox, the site doesn't come up right for some reason. I'm working on that, hopefully I can remedy that soon.

Hey! I leave for Wizard World LA in t-minus 9 days! :)

Website in the works!

2005-03-09T03:21:00.000-05:00

My official website should be online either later today, or Thursday. The webaddress is: http://www.rangerchic.com.

Stay tuned! :)

Megacon has arrived!

2005-02-25T03:12:00.000-05:00

Very quickly, since it's after 3am and I really have to get some rest before the start of the con later today...
There was a short signing I set-up at my Barnes & Noble (that is where I currently work). Guests included Phil Jimenez, Greg Horn and Andy Runton (Mike Oeming planned on attending, but his flight was majorly delayed due to the snow). Anyway, the event went well. Here are a few pics for those interested:

More later!

Hey look, it's an update!

2005-02-21T02:21:00.000-05:00

I meant to update last week, but I couldn't get on blogger for some reason. Anyway, issue #1 of "The Line" is at the printer! I should have it in my hands in time for WWLA next month. And, my name is on the Artist Alley list for the con!
Check it out
This week is Megacon. While I won't have "The Line," I will be attending. So, if you see me, say hello. You might find me at Mike Oeming's booth since I'm going under his site (for those unaware, I run his website).
More soon! :)

Cover image to The Line #1!

2005-01-27T01:13:00.000-05:00

Presenting the awesome cover to issue #1 of "The Line!" It was done by the great Mike Oeming.

Wow, I got on!

2005-01-13T03:38:00.000-05:00

I've been having trouble posting to my blog the last few days. Not sure what the deal is there. Anywho, a bit of an update. I am now listed on Tampa Comic & Toy Conventions' site as a guest for April 17th. Also, I'm about set for Wizard World LA in March. More on that soon.
Bit of not so good news, "The Line" most likley won't be ready in time for Megacon. Eric is finishing up the issue now, so it won't hit the printer until the last week of the month. That would only give them about 4 weeks to print up the copies. Since they have been a bit backed up as of late, I don't see the book getting to me until right before WWLA. It will however be orderable online in March.
I will be posting more info/updates on things soon! :)

2005 is officially here!

2005-01-01T01:13:00.000-05:00

A year of new experiences and fun has arrived. I look forward to what the coming months have to offer! Happy New Year everyone! :)

Artists update!

2004-12-29T20:53:00.000-05:00

I've been having trouble posting on blogger the last couple days for some reason. Anywho, I wanted to announce the artists for my two short stories.
Donal Delay will be penciling "Bookstore Ramblings" for the yet unnamed Ronin one-page anthology. And, Heather Whidden will be penciler on "A Comical Christmas," my first true experience story (title is tentative at this point). The story will be told in narrative form, with others to follow.

Bookstore Ramblings

2004-12-25T23:45:00.000-05:00

Coming in 2005! This will be a one-pager in an upcoming anthology book through Ronin Studios. I just put the finishing touches on my script this evening. As soon as I get an artist on the book and some pencil sketches from said person, I shall post them here. :)

Welcome to my blog!

2004-12-24T01:09:00.000-05:00

This blog will be used for documenting my experiences entering the wonderful world of comic creatordom! 2005 will be the year I show the Industry who Shannon Chenoweth is. :)
I will also post various things of interest to me, along the way. Some posts really will be babblings, while others will hopefully serve a more informative purpose.
Anyway, welcome to my blog! Bookmark it, and visit often.