Jamie Broadnax of the outstanding Black Girl Nerds was speaking to students today and called San Diego the Superbowl of comics. Is it really the most important event for the industry? Kind of yes, kind of no. Nonetheless, there’s a lot of effort and planning that goes into it all.
So many hopes and dreams that talented people are working hard at. I’m really excited for it all.
And with that in mind – if you’re going to the show -come on and see me at any of these amazing panels:
How to Get News Coverage
Thursday 10:30 -Room 10 
Small-press publishers: What makes the difference between a press release that earns news coverage, previews, and interviews, and one that gets ignored? Comics journalist Rik Offenberger (First Comics News, G-Man Comics) moderates a discussion with journalists, editors, publicists, and media professionals on what they look for when considering coverage, including what information to submit, how to present it, and how to build relationships with the press. Panelists include Ed Catto (Captain Action), Tim Chizmar (Film Threat’s Best Indie Horror 2024, Comedy Central), Jaese Evermore (Temple of Geek, First Comics News), Alexander Raymond (Monstar Public Relations), Rob Salkowitz (ICv2, Forbes), Francis Sky (First Comics News, Massacre Twins), Chris Squires (Archie Comics, G-Man Comics), and Josh Waldrop (Ultima Digital Media).
The Toy That Changed Everything: How Captain Action Helped Launch Customization Culture
Friday 5:30pm Room 26 AB
Sixty years ago, Captain Action and Ideal revolutionized toys and play patterns by putting customization ahead of standard approaches. Kids were challenged to create their own backstories and adventures, pulling characters from a wide range of rights holders and IP owners. Michael Polis (Atomic Toybox), Cody Fultz (ThreeZero), and Steve Forde (LBO) discuss their collaborations, what makes them work, and what doesn’t. Moderated by Ed Catto(Captain Action).
Student Activism Vs Student Participation
Saturday 10 am San Diego Library 
In an ever-changing future that uses pop culture, comics, gaming, and more as essential learning tools, what is the best way for students to be involved? Does traditional education still work? How important is hands-on learning? There’s a difference between having a seat and having a voice. Showing up is necessary, but is it sufficient? Educators who use comics, pop culture, and gaming in classrooms—including Dr. Chris Wildrick (Syracuse University), Dr. Christina Knopf (SUNY Cortland), Dr. Billy Obenauer (University of Maine), Krista Rozanski (Syracuse Libraries), Darlynne Overbaugh (First Congregational Church), and Bailey Day (Ithaca College)—discuss the challenges of teaching for an ever-changing future. Moderated by Ed Catto (Ithaca College).”
The Future of TwoMorrows Publishing
Saturday 4:00 Grand Ballroom 12 & 13 
John Morrow reveals TwoMorrows Publishing’s plans for the future and looks back at the company’s more than three decades in business. In addition to getting the scoop on his 100th issue of The Jack Kirby Collector (the publication that started it all), featured panelists include Kevin Miller (author of The Crisis Companion, debuting at Comic-Con), Keith Dallas (who will give the scoop on not one, but two upcoming American Comic Book Chronicles volumes), Peter Bosch (author of the company’s American Movie/TV Comics books), Greg Biga (author of a top-secret upcoming TwoMorrows book that will be revealed at the panel), and Ed Catto (editor of RetroFan magazine).
Hope to see you!
