Leave it to Karen

Surviving the Creative Life

2012-02-03T14:20:00.000-06:00

I know a lot of creative people -- musicians, writers, artists, and even a few actors. Most of them are semi-pros, indulging their creative sides because they have "day jobs" responsible for making ends meet. But a few have made the leap to full-time creative pursuits as a sole source of income. It takes a special kind of fortitude to do that, and it requires considerable sacrifice.

While most are overjoyed to discuss the upsides of making a living in the arts, few are ever asked to elaborate on the downsides. Last week Twitter came alight when Heidi MacDonald at The Beat directed our attention to a brilliant blog post by Faith Erin Hicks. Hicks, a full-time freelance cartoonist, got brutally honest about financially surviving the creative life. The post is on her blog, Friends With Boys, where she posts her webcomic of the same name. It's quite an interesting perspective, and I recommend you also read the comments at the end as Hicks answers questions and offers additional insights.

The Allan Handelman Show

2012-01-10T12:51:00.000-06:00

My apologies for not updating this blog. I keep running across interesting bits of info in my work and travels that I should share, and I'll do that here more often.

It was a pleasure once again to be a guest on the Allan Handelman Show. The live show was on December 23, and Allan honestly didn't know if the WZTK-FM listeners would be off to grandma's house or tuning in to Christmas-music-only stations given the very close proximity to the holiday. He needn't have worried, his audience is amazing. As with so many of our other interviews, we had a lot of callers that didn't get to talk about their toys on-air. If you're one of those folks, my apologies. If you leave a comment below, I'll do my best to get information on your old toys.

And if you have toy train questions, the Train Collector's Association website is http://traincollectors.org/. Just click on that link and you'll probably be able to find someone in your area who can offer advice.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Christmas Spirit 2010

2010-12-29T10:36:00.000-06:00

I considered writing the following true story as a Christmas letter that I would have included with my Christmas cards this year, but a friend talked me out of it. It sounds a little more like fiction than fact. It still does, but because the encounter was directly responsible for me discovering and keeping the Christmas Spirit all through the month of December, I decided not to keep it to myself.

Here it is, how I found the Christmas Spirit in 2010. Actually, it found me -- in the most unlikely of places -- and at the most unlikely of times.

December 3, 2010. Driving south on I-57, I stopped at the Effingham BP station. It was a bitterly cold morning and was at just 11 degrees at 7:30 am. Pumping gas never goes fast enough in weather like that, and my impatience grew as it does when a trip to the ladies room becomes necessary. I saw her while crossing the parking lot -- a short, round granny dressed in a bright pink hand-knit (it had to be hand-knit) sweater. She didn't so much walk as waddle, and I knew that I was still too far from the door to beat her inside. I quickened my pace and hoped that she'd go left as she entered thus leading her away from the narrow corridor on the right that led to the lavatory.

Trust me, you never want to get stuck behind a waddling old lady on her way to the lavatory -- time stands still and you could read Tolstoy in the space between. But there I was. She correctly moved right and turned to the narrow hallway just as I hit the door. NO hope of passing her in this hallway, and my pressing need no longer relevant. She moved with the grace of a sea turtle in wet sand, and my thoughts grew less and less pleasant as I followed in slow motion. Under different circumstances, I might have appreciated the Six Million Dollar Man motion and added the appropriate sound effects -- that morning, I couldn't find a kind or humorous thought.

We reached the door and she finally noticed my presence.
"It's a bit brisk out there isn't it?" she asked.
"Yes, ma'am, winter's here to stay," I managed.
As she opened the door, she floored me.
"Well, this is my favorite time of the year -- Merry Christmas to you and your family, honey."

I hesitated. I hadn't held a kind thought toward this granny since the second I saw her, and here she was wishing me a Merry Christmas. All that stuff that happened to the Grinch happened to me in a heartbeat, and I smiled. I wished her a Merry Christmas back and meant it, and we entered the line inside the very full lavatory.

Who would have thought that my Christmas angel would have arrived in shocking pink! Once back in the car, I switched to the stations playing nothing but Christmas music and had a wonderful trip.

"The O'Brien Factor" online

2010-10-14T10:14:00.000-05:00

As you may already know, I write a column for Comics Buyer's Guide magazine called "The O'Brien Factor." Primarily devoted to the work of small press and independent publishers, the column includes reviews of comics that I've enjoyed, show reports, industry news, and other comics odds and ends that are worth sharing.

Every now and again, something special is featured in the magazine that knocks columns out of the issue. When that happened in the past, the column would just appear in the next issue. With the upgrades to the CBG website, however, the columns now become online exclusives -- and that is its own kind of awesome.

Just click on the link above and you'll be directed to the magazine's home page. Click the link for "The O'Brien Factor," and you can read my column. As always, if you have events/comics/info to recommend or share, drop me a line.

Interview on the Allan Handelman Show

2010-08-20T19:42:00.000-05:00

My thanks to Allan Handelman and the WZTK-FM audience -- I had a wonderful time talking toys with all of you this afternoon. I know we couldn't answer everyone's questions on-air, so if you'd like some help identifying the value of one of your toys, just post a Comment below and I'll do my best to get you some additional information.

Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine

2010-07-21T15:29:00.000-05:00

The key to packing for a trip to San Diego is weight. I always go out there with as little weight in my bags as possible because of the volume of materials I have to transport back home. And with the airlines charging extra for bags that exceed their weight standards, I'm very attentive as to how much I bring back in my suitcase.

If I've accumulated so many books that I know my bag will break the scale, I take advantage of the on-site UPS store at the San Diego Convention Center. Shipping UPS Ground from the con is an expensive option, but it is still cheaper than paying the airline. The disadvantage is that I have to wait a few days to get the box, so I'm careful to ship the materials I picked up for my collection and keep review materials with me. This system and has worked out very well.

That brings me to the problem of what to read on the way to the con. A hardcover book is out of the question for it's bulk as well as weight, but paperbacks are a nice option. Magazines are too, but a few of them in your carryon bag does add unwanted weight. My solution is the latest issue of Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine. The newsprint paper is light and at 112 pages, the issue will keep me entertained for a good portion of the flight. If you enjoy noir, mysteries, or crime fiction, try EQMM for your next flight.

Comic-Con San Diego 2010

2010-07-21T13:28:00.000-05:00

I'm so happy to be returning to San Diego for Comic-Con July 22-25. The event as a whole is, as Galinda from Wicked said, "altogether quite impossible to describe." I've called it a gathering of 130,000 of my closest friends, and while that might speak to the sheer magnitude of the con, I don't want it to overshadow the amazing array of creative people that I look forward to visiting with each year.

Everywhere you turn, you're surrounded by an eclectic collection of creative minds. Whether nor not a particular booth strikes your fancy, you can't help but be inspired by the creative output. It's a recharge of the inspirational batteries and a kick in the butt to pursue your own endeavors.

I'm covering the con for Comics Buyer's Guide magazine. If you collect comics, are into comics history, or are looking for news and reviews you should definitely check out this magazine. You won't find it on a newsstand so ask for it at your local comics shop or stop by booth #1419 during the con, and I'll get you a copy. My column, "The O'Brien Factor," includes a round up of indie-small press comics reviews, news from the small presses, and other non-mainstream topics like podcasts, tidbits from cons, noir/pulp fiction news and events, and interviews with creators. I'm always looking for interesting topics for my column, so drop me a line if you have a book coming out, a con coming up, or can recommend a newsy story.

I'll be posting my con experiences on the CBG site and using my Twitter account @leaveittokaren, so check back often for updates!

Windy City Pulp and Paper Convention, April 23-25

2010-04-22T09:35:00.002-05:00

The 10th Windy City Pulp and Paper Convention takes place April 23-25 at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center Hotel. Fans of paperbacks, original art, movie memorabilia, old time radio, science fiction, pop culture, mystery, noir, and pulp culture are sure to love this show. After hearing some wonderful comments about Windy City, I'm looking forward to making my first trip to the con.

I'll try to update here and I'll definitely include a complete write-up for my column in Comics Buyer's Guide magazine. Looking forward to meeting Steve Haffner of Haffner Press. I reviewed The Collected Captain Future: Volume One from Haffner Press for CBG a few issues ago (if you love space pulp, you'll love this collection of Edmond Hamilton adventures) and I can't wait to see what else is in the works.

Here's the con info:
Windy City Pulp and Paper Convention
April 23-25, 2010
Westin Lombard Yorktown Center
70 Yorktown Shopping Center
Lombard, Il 60148
630-719-8000

Click on the link above for the show schedule.

S.P.A.C.E. April 24-25

2010-04-22T08:44:00.002-05:00

This weekend, the midwest's largest gathering of independent and small press publishers happens in Columbus, Ohio, with the 11th annual Small Press & Alternative Comics Expo (S.P.A.C.E). This show is all about the comics and includes everything from mini-comics to sketchbooks. It's a grand collection of writers and artists who publish their own stuff. If you've ever wanted to take that leap and jump in to the world of comics, then this is the show you can't miss.

The S.P.A.C.E. website is a place you'll want to visit, as well. Contact info for all of the creators is available, so if you can't reach the show, you can still get their comics. And don't miss the free S.P.A.C.E. Anthology 2010. What a terrific idea! I hope they do this every year -- it's 113 pages of comics contributed by the show's exhibitors as an introduction to their work and the kinds of comics you'll discover at the show. The Anthology is available through a free download on the S.P.A.C.E. site.

Small Press & Alternative Comics Expo
April 24-25, 2010
Ramada Plaze Hotel & Conference Center
4900 Sinclair Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43229
Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Contact: Bob Corby via email, bpc13@earthlink.net

April: Poetry Month

2010-04-15T14:12:00.000-05:00

In honor of Poetry Month, the good folks at Writer's Digest have dared you to write a poem a day throughout the entire month of April. Robert Lee Brewer's blog, Poetic Asides, is the host of the festivities and he's not only issuing the writing prompts, he's also writing. I imagine that this is to show us that it can be done, which is good because I managed a contribution for the first day and haven't attempted it since.

The task for Day 1 was to "write a lonely poem." My attempt:

Trains missed leave behind
solitary passengers
looking to the future
on empty platforms

It was fun to switch my brain to the compact construction of poetry. Pick out a prompt from the 15 already posted and give it a try. Then post your efforts in the comments.

Sketch Card Benefit Auction

2010-04-15T13:42:00.001-05:00

Sometimes while reading other blogs, a topic strikes me as too good to pass up, and I post it here. Thanks to my friend Chris Thorne (his blog is Sketchbook by Chris and you can find the link in my bloglist), I learned of the 3rd annual Sketch Card Benefit Auction held by Comics for Cures.

Artists (including Chris) are creating sketch cards and donating them for this auction to benefit the American Cancer Society. Last year's event raised more than $6,000 and they're hoping to do even better this year. So spread the word, bid on some cards, and do what you can for this worthwhile cause.

The dates were moved -- here are the new dates:
May 1: deadline for all artists to submit materials
May 15: auction starts on eBay
May 22: gallery show at Comics 2 Games in Florence, KY

And here is the rest of the good info:
3rd Annual SKETCH CARD BENEFIT AUCTION AND GALLERY SHOW FOR AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

Comics 2 Games is hosting a SKETCH CARD GALLERY SHOW and Benefit Auction for the American Cancer Society. Proceeds will go to the AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY.
Location: Comics 2 Games, 8470 US 42., Florence, KY 41042 phone: 859-647-7568.
For more information about participating or attending the event email: Sketchcards@bluelinepro.com or call 859-282-0096.

C2E2 April 16-18, 2010

2010-04-15T13:03:00.001-05:00

It's a great weekend to be in Chicago, the weather will be in the 60s (which is fabulous for the Windy City this time of the year), the Cubs will take on the Houston Astros for a three-game set at historic Wrigley Field and the coolest event in comics is coming to McCormick Place -- C2E2.

Check out the link above for more information, but there is definitely something for everyone at this convention. From the A-list guest stars like Neil Gaiman, Alex Ross, Peter David, Geoff Johns and many more to the special Dr. Who screening on Friday night, C2E2 is an event not to be missed.

And you can count on the con food in Chicago to be a whole lot better than in San Diego (where the pizza is dreadful and don't get me started on the hot dogs).

LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra in concert

2010-04-15T12:37:00.002-05:00

On Saturday, April 17, 2010, the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra will present its spring pops concert, State Fair: A Blue Ribbon Event at the LaPorte Civic Auditorium. The concert will begin at 7:30 pm.

Guest vocalists, the LCSO Children's Choir, juggler Thomas Misch, whistler Hans Martin Werner, and a pie-baking contest are all features of what promises to be a delightful downhome evening with the orchestra. I think the only things missing are cotton candy and elephant ear vendors!

Tickets are available at the door -- $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, students and children are free. If you can't attend and would like to make a donation to the orchestra, there is a handy button on the main LCSO website.

Here's the evening's Program:

RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN: Selections from State Fair
"Our State Fair"
"It Might as Well be Spring"
"It’s a Grand Night for Singing"

ROSSINI: "William Tell Overture"
SAINT-SAENS: Theme from BABE ("Symphony No. 3, Finale")
WENDEL: "Under the Big Top"
ANDERSON: "Clarinet Candy"
HAYMEN: "Pops Hoedown"
BERNSTEIN: "Theme from Magnificent Seven"
SCHWARTZ: "The Wizard and I"
GOLDRICH: "The Alto’s Lament"
O’BOYLE: "Country Overture"
GILPIN: "Why We Sing"
QUEEN: "We Are the Champions"
Sing Alongs, and fun for the whole family

Trivia 41

2010-04-15T11:28:00.001-05:00

This weekend, the world's largest trivia contest returns to Stevens Point, Wisconsin! Trivia 41: The Dark Side of the Contest is a title so cool, I wish I bought the T-shirt. It's not too late to register your team for this year's event, you have until 6:00 pm on Friday, but don't wait that long.

Thanks to the Internet, your team doesn't have to travel to the Stevens Point area to participate -- you can spend the weekend listening to the questions on your computer. And even if you don't have a team, test your trivia knowledge just for fun and frustration.

Enjoy the contest, and special good luck wishes to my friends on the team -- Yaargh v. The Point Sewer System (colorful team names are highly encouraged).

Cooking with Kristin

2010-03-16T10:27:00.000-05:00

Hang around me long enough and you're bound to notice that I wear my watch on my left wrist and a LIVESTRONG bracelet on my right. The silicon bracelet craze has long since been reduced to yesterday's fad, so you know there's a story behind why I wear that particular bright yellow band every day.

Among my other pursuits, I teach percussion. Cathy Cunningham is the assistant band director for the schools in the small, southern Illinois town of Pinckneyville. Director of bands Steve Cannedy and Cathy have built a fine band program and it's incredibly gratifying to work for gifted professionals who are also good people.

Cathy's daughter, Kristin -- a talented (french) horn player -- went through the band program and on to the University of Illinois. She was a fiesty high school kid when I first met her, and it was no shock when she became a fiesty adult.

Eventually, Kristin went on to pursue a master's degree in horn performance down in Austin, Texas. The kid could play! While finishing up her studies, however, she was diagnosed with lukemia. The news kicked off quite a fight for Kristin and her family. Batteries of tests and treatments, periods of remission and relapse, and a whole lot of fiesty characterized her struggle to kick lukemia.

After a three-year fight, Kristin passed away on March 17, 2008. And nearly two years later, I still wear a LIVESTRONG bracelet. The LIVESTRONG folks are on a mission to fight all cancer and have the kick-ass attitude that I respect. During her illness, I wore it to remind me to keep Kristin and her family in my thoughts and prayers. Nearly two years later, I wear it to remind myself that I better not ignore the truly important stuff, 'cause life is short.

The Cunningham family celebrates Kristin's life by organizing an annual fund raiser around St. Patrick's Day for the Lukemia & Lymphoma Society. This year's effort is Cooking with Kristin, a cookbook that Kristin started and was finished with the contributed recipes of family and friends -- I sent in my favorite Irish Soda Bread recipe. The cookbook is beautifully designed (Craig Williams Creative, Inc. handled that) and includes family photos, stories from Kristin's journal, and even some recipes from Kristin's culinary hero, Paula Deen. They've already sold out of the 500 copy inital print run, and my $20 donation is the best money I've spent all year. Another 1,000 copies are on their way and I hope they sell out just as fast.

If you're in Pinckneyville, pick up a couple of copies from the Cunninghams. If not, consider a donation to the Lukemia & Lymphoma Society or LIVESTRONG. You can click on the links above to make donations to these organizations.

Life is short and cancer sucks -- please do whatever you can.

Dallas Comic Con January 30-31

2010-01-27T08:58:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Matthew Warlick of Space-Gun Studios for reminding me that the Dallas Comic Con happens this weekend, January 30-31, 2010. For those of you in the Dallas/Ft. Worth region, here's the con info:

Richardson Civic Center
411 W. Arapaho Rd.
Richardson, TX
Saturday: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
Sunday: Noon to 5:00 pm
Admission: See HERE

Artist's Alley, special guests from film and television (Adam West, Sean Patrick Flanery, Charisma Carpenter), and a full schedule of Q&As, and an original art auction are just some of the featured attractions.
Featured artist include Tim Sale, Adam Hughes, Michael Golden, Jim Mahfood, Terry Moore, Mark Brooks, Matt Sturges, and many more. Check out the link above for a complete listing.

If you attend the show, take some pictures and I'll get them posted to the Comics Buyer's Guide site. Enjoy the con!

S.P.A.C.E., April 24-25, 2010

2010-01-25T11:28:00.001-06:00

Three comics events on my personal list of Comics-Shows-I-Must-Attend-Someday are (in no particular order) the Baltimore Comic-Con, Mid-Ohio Con, and S.P.A.C.E.

With a little luck and careful scheduling on my part, I have a real chance at attending S.P.A.C.E. because it has moved from the usual March date to April 24-25 this year. It has also changed venues and will be held here:

Ramada Plaza Hotel & Conference Center
4900 Sinclair Rd.
Columbus, Ohio 43229
Toll free: (877) 609-6086
Until April 2, the hotel has a block of rooms at a special convention rate of $79 per night, mention the con.

One of the most unique aspects of this show is that it focuses entirely on small and independent publishers. This is a creator-driven show with absolutely no interest in pop culture -- this show is all about the comics. In addition to the wide variety of exhibitors, S.P.A.C.E. will have special guests and workshops -- the announcements regarding these and schedules for them will be updated to the show site, so become a frequent visitor to stay up on the latest happenings. Check out the S.P.A.C.E. site for the great lineup of exhibitors already comitted to the show because you're bound to find several people whose work you admire and several more that you'll enjoy. Show hours are Saturday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is $8 for the weekend pass or $5 daily.

I had the opportunity to talk with S.P.A.C.E. founder Bob Corby, and he was kind enough to share his insights for my next column in Comics Buyer's Guide magazine (issue #1665). It should hit newsstands and your favorite comic shop at the end of February. (If your local comics shop doesn't get CBG, ask them to order it for your pull list -- there's great stuff in every issue.)

Bill Jacobs Chevy Swap Meet

2010-01-12T12:31:00.000-06:00

Bill Jacobs Chevrolet in Joliet, Illinois, will host its 37th annual swap meet on Sunday, January 17, 2010. Presented by the Great Lakes Region chapter of the Vintage Chevrolet Club of America, the first swap meet of the year is guaranteed to cure cabin fever.

Show hours are 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, and admission is $4.
Bill Jacobs Chevrolet is located at 2001 W. Jefferson in Joliet.
For more information, contact Jim McDonald: (708) 485-3633 or click the links above.

I attened last year's swap meet and was thrilled to find that the show was completely sold out of vendor spaces. I suspect the same will be true this year. In addition to the car parts -- which aren't limited to Chevrolets, so you Mopar and Ford fans shouldn't stay home -- there are always some interesting varieties of collectibles from Hot Wheels cars to slot cars to the two lunchboxes I picked up last year. (For those of you with long memories, the guy with the California Car Dusters is still attending this show and is still set up in the same spot! I remember him from when I was just a little kid attending the show with my dad.)

A few years ago, I couldn't find the swap meet in the Old Cars Weekly Show Calendar section, so I emailed Jim McDonald and reminded him that the show listings are free. Last year, the show was in the listings, and this year, they have an ad in the Show Calendar section. Thanks Jim, I hope the swap meet is a big success for the club.

Toy Shows: January 8-10

2010-01-07T09:31:00.003-06:00

The winter toy show season is upon us, and I'll do my level best to bring you the interesting places to go in the world of toy shows. If you know of events in your area, please add them in the comments below.

Farm Toy Shows
January 8-10, Urbana, IL: 6th Annual Illini Farm Toy Show sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau District 12 Young Leaders at the Hanford Inn and Suites, 2408 N. Cunningham Ave.
Hours: Fri. 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.; Sat. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., farm toy consignment silent auction from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Sun. 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For more info call (217) 247-2644.

January 9, Peotone, IL: 19th Annual Peotone FFA Farm Toy Show at the Will County Fair Atrium, West St. and Wilmington Rd.
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For more info call (708) 258-3236.

January 9, Burt, MI: Saginaw Valley Toy Show at Albee Township Hall
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more info call (989) 777-9819.

Toy Trains
There are quite a few train events happening this weekend. Classic Toy Trains magazine maintains one of the most comprehensive show calendars in this hobby. Click HERE to see what's going on in your area.

Have fun and remember to support your local toy shows!

So Long 2009!

2009-12-31T21:38:00.000-06:00

Making a New Year's resolution to blog more often is risky because I'm not a fan of making promises that I can't keep, but I'm choosing to look at it as a challenge. Never could resist a good challenge.

I know that one of the first rules of blogging is to pick one subject and make it your focus. But I completely threw that out of the window to write entries on the stuff I find interesting. That just happens to be a wide variety of topics -- books, comics, art, music, percussion, teaching, old cars, collectible toys, and more. Thanks for reading, I'm having fun writing the entries and I hope you're having fun reading.

Best wishes for a healthy, happy, and prosperous new year!

Train Collectors Information

2009-12-17T15:07:00.002-06:00

Around this time of the year, I receive lots of requests for information regarding toy trains. It seems that most families have at least one heirloom train or train set, and most folks aren't sure exactly what they have or how much it's worth. Fortunately, toy train collecting is a well-organized and well-populated hobby -- there are plenty of collectors in all corners of the country ready and willing to assist.

Your first task is to figure out what you have. It isn't enough to know that your train is a Lionel or an American Flyer, you also need to know its model number(s) to identify the train. And it helps if you know approximately how old the train is. Search your local yellow pages and you'll probably find a hobby shop that specializes in toy trains. The proprietor may be able to assist you, but a phone call is recommended before you visit a shop -- if no one there knows trains, you're better off searching elsewhere.

Enter your local library -- one of the most underutilized public structures in any town. There are several good reference guides with pictures that can assist you in identifying and assessing the value of your train, and the librarian can likely obtain any of these titles through Interlibrary loan.

These titles include pictures to help identify your trains:
The Standard Catalog of Lionel Trains 1900-1942 2nd Edition
The Standard Catalog of Lionel Trains 1945-69
The Standard Catalog of Lionel Trains 1970-present
The Standard Catalog of Lionel Train Sets 1945-69
The Standard Catalog of American Flyer Trains
O'Brien's Collecting Toy Trains

These guides are strictly price listings but updated yearly:
Greenberg's Pocket Price Guide to Lionel Trains 1901-2010
Greenberg's Pocket Price Guide to American Flyer Trains

Another great source of information are train collectors themselves. The Train Collectors Association is a train collecting club with chapters all over the continent. Their website contains a variety of links to put you in touch with knowledgable collectors in your area. Club chapters also hold train collecting events that bring buyers and sellers together, so check their site for shows in your area and keep an eye out for show dates in your local newspaper.

And if you're interested in learning more about train collecting, there are a variety of magazines serving the hobby. Start your search with Classic Toy Trains magazine.

Gift Subscriptions for Libraries

2009-12-16T07:52:00.004-06:00

It's the end of the year and you're giving gifts and writing checks anyway, so why not give a gift that keeps on giving the whole year? No Clark Griswold, I'm not suggesting the "Jelly of the Month Club," but I am suggesting that you share your hobby interests with your whole town.

Give a subscription to your favorite hobby magazine to your local library.

Budgets are never high enough for libraries, and magazine subscriptions are among the first things cut in order to maintain other services. Opportunities to share our hobbies exist beyond specialty shows and events, and we rarely take advantage of them. Educating and informing others about your hobbies is the first step to attracting new enthusiasts, and that's a vital component to the health of every hobby from bass fishing to old cars to antiques to...you get the idea.

Take a moment to talk to your local librarian -- don't forget to bring in a copy of the magazine -- and explain that you'd like to give a gift subscription to the library. Once you get the green light from the librarian, it's pretty easy to add that extra subscription on to your existing account.

By the way, those gifts are tax deductible for you, and that's always a welcome thing this time of the year.

Art History Tutorial for Kids

2009-12-14T12:15:00.002-06:00

I found a cool article in today's Chicago Tribune -- yes, the paper as printed on newsprint paper, not an e-article from the Trib's site -- and I decided to share it here. I'll save my lecture about how actual newspapers are still wonderful things for later.

From the Chicago Tribune, Monday, Decmber 14, 2009
by Vikki Ortiz Healy

Your 6-year-old may be all about Zhu Zhu pets and Hannah Montana this holiday season, but is he or she equally excited about Claude Monet and Norman Rockwell?

Kids should be, says Deb Herman, an associate professor of art and art education at Concordia University Chicago, who has just launched an ambitious online program that aims to make first through eighth graders as conversant about art history as they are about Bakugan.

"There are other countries that do a much better job of really totally embracing art," said Herman, who worked with the John and Frances Beck Foundation in Chicago to develop the free online lessons for teachers and parents to download at cuchicago.edu/artlessons.

The 10-lesson packets--Henri Rousseau and Vincent Van Gogh in second; Georges Deurat and Leonardo da Vinci in fourth--are designed to have kids recognizing 80 masterpieces by the eighty grade. Lessons through fifth grade already are posted. She says sixth grade will come by spring 2010, with seventh and eighth to follow in 2012.

Herman insists that once exposed to the stories behind the artwork, the children are engaged, fascinated and knowledgeable on several levels.

"What we're trying to do is to get the children to start using higher-level thinking skills," she said.

Click on the links above for more information. To expand on the information in the Trib's story, each grade level contains 10 lessons -- one lesson for a specific artist. As of this writing, not all of the links will work, but I'll update this post as more of them go active.

Farm Toy Shows, Dec. 12 & 13, 2009

2009-12-10T15:03:00.004-06:00

Holiday shopping means something different for collectors. There are a few toy shows left before the big day. I'm listing this weekend's upcoming farm toy shows in this post.

Dec 11-12, Taylorsville, Kentucky

20th Annual Spencer Co. FFA farm toy show at the Spencer Co. High School.

Hours: Fri. 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Sat. 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

For information call (502) 477-2781

Dec 11-12, Sikeston, Missouri

22nd Annual SEMO farm toy show at the Best Western Coach House Inn.

Hours: Fri. 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Sat. 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

For information call (573) 628-3643

December 12, Corning Iowa

4th Annual Corning farm toy show at the Corning Community Building.

For information call (641) 344-2686

December 12, Fairfield, Ohio

20th Annual farm toy & die-cast collectible toy show at Treasure Grove Auctions, 4771 Dixie Hwy.

Hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

For information call (513) 856-8160

December 12, St. Thomas, Pennsylvania

14th Annual P. Rodney Cover Memorial Christmas toy show at the St. Thomas Fire Co. at the intersection of Rt. 30 and School House Lane.

Hours: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm

For more information contact the Tri-State Farm Toy Collectors Club, (301) 790-2422

December 12 & 13, Fairmont, Minnesota

23rd Annual D & S farm toy show at the Five Lakes Center, 308 S. State St.

Hours: Sat. 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Sun. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

December 13, Effingham, Illinois

Annual National Trail Farm Toy Winter Show at the Effingham K of C Hall.

Hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

For more information call (217) 844-2474

December 13, Portland Indiana

23rd Annual Jay County Farm Toy Show at the Green 4-H building on the Hay County Fairgrounds.

Hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

For more information call (260) 726-6433

December 13, Gower, Missouri

East Buchanan FFA Alumni Toy Show at the East Buchanan High School gym.

Hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

For more information call (816) 244-4036

Have fun!

Westchester Toy & Train Shows

2009-12-09T09:05:00.004-06:00

With Christmas just around the corner, my mind turns to toy trains. Now that the Christmas tree is up and decorated, one last tree-related task remains for this weekend -- setting up the electric train that runs circles around the tree skirt.

As with farm toys, winter seems to be a good time of the year for toy train shows. These shows are usually run by a local club of train collectors, and they are more than happy to answer any questions about the hobby. In addition to dealers selling merchandise, many shows also feature train layouts on display, so be sure to bring the kids.

Now in its 26th year, the Westchester Toy & Train Associates, Inc. is hosting two upcoming toy and train shows. The first is on December 13 and the second is on January 31. Both shows will be held at the County Center in White Plains, New York (Rt. 100 & Tarrytown Rd.) For dealer and patron information click on the links above.

The Westchester shows feature trains and layouts, but also include toy soldiers, die-cast cars, books, and new and antique toys, as well. If you attend, take a few photos and I'll share them here.

Windiana in Concert

2009-11-16T08:40:00.004-06:00

If you're in the Valparaiso, IN area this Thursday evening (November 19), head over to the Memorial Opera House and catch the Windiana Concert Band. Under the direction of Dr. Jeffrey Doebler, the director of music education and bands at Valparaiso University, Windiana is a professional-level concert band.

Among other pieces, Thursday's program includes:

American Overture for Band, Joseph Willcox Jenkins

Second Norwegian Rhapsody, F. Melius Christiansen

Honest Abe Quickstep, William Camphouse

Mountains in the Mist, Michael Boo

Suite of Old American Dances, Robert Russell Bennett

Video Games Live, arr. Ralph Ford

Fugue on Yankee Doodle, John Philip Sousa

Towering Windows, Michael Boo

Here's the info:

Windiana in Concert

Thursday, November 19

7:30 PM

Memorial Opera House

104 Indiana St.

Valparaiso, IN

(219) 548-9137

Admission: Adults $12; Senior citizens $10, Students $7

This group can really play. Bring your friends and any young musicians you know. Everyone will enjoy this concert.

Model Train and Farm Toy Show

2009-11-15T16:26:00.004-06:00

While knocking around on Twitter recently, I discovered a press release for a 2nd annual model train/farm toy show to be held in north central Illinois next weekend. If you're in that part of the state, this sounds like a great show. Here's the entire press release:

The North Central Illinois Model Train Fair and Farm Toy Show will be held at the Bureau County Fairgrounds in Princeton, Ill., on Saturday, Nov. 21.

All types of trains will be on display and for sale including the popular Thomas toy trains, HO Scale trains and the larger American Flyer and Lionel style trains. There will also be several working train layouts for everyone to watch.

In addition farm toys and equipment manuals will also be sold at this show. Antique toys and games will also be sold.

The show runs from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. in the heated exhibit halls at the fairgrounds. Adult admission is $4. Kids 10 and under are admitted free. A concession stand is located in the building with breakfast and lunch items.

The Fairgrounds are located at 811 W. Peru St in Princeton. For information call (815)875-2606 after 5 p.m. or see www.bureaucountyfair.com

If you attend, please take some photos and I'll share them here.

U.S. Open Brass Band Championships

2009-11-06T14:04:00.002-06:00

The U.S. Open Brass Band Championships will take place on Saturday, November 7, 2009 at the Norris Cultural Arts Center in St. Charles, Ill.

Brass bands from across the nation (and Canada, too) will compete starting at 9:00 am. Tickets are $25. Click on the link above for the lineup and performance schedule.

National Farm Toy Show

2009-11-06T08:23:00.010-06:00

Of all the farm toy events and shows throughout the year, the one not to be missed is the National Farm Toy Show. Held the first weekend in November each year, the National is the granddaddy of them all. It takes place in Dyersville, Iowa, on the grounds of Beckman High School and the National Farm Toy Museum. If you collect farm toys, this is the show for you.

This year's show happens November 6-8, and hours are:

Friday 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Saturday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

Sunday 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

Admission is $5 per day and if you'd like to get in an hour ahead of the crowds, floor rights are available for $25.

The show attracts dealers and collectors from all over the world, and it's amazing to watch the population of a town of about 4,000 swell to more than 15,000. Everything from new farm toy releases to cast-iron antiques to the parts you need to fix everything in between is on the grounds at the National. The show also holds a toy auction on Saturday. The saying is true, "If you can't find it at the National, you don't need it."

Overcome A Bad Rehearsal

2009-11-04T08:10:00.006-06:00

One bad rehearsal isn't usually enough to spoil a pending performance, but several in a row can damage the whole experience. How do you prevent things from going south? Here are five suggestions:

1. Don't deny that the first bad rehearsal was bad.
Trying to see the positive, its tempting for musicians to chalk up a poor rehearsal as simply an "off day" and not give it another thought. Sometimes it really is an off day, but sometimes not digging any deeper than that perpetuates what made the rehearsal "off" in the first place.

2. Take a closer look.
Whether we like to admit it or not, outside factors affect our ability to focus on the creative tasks at hand. To find out why the rehearsal went bad, check your personal baggage at the door and take a look at the specific points where your own efforts derailed. You can't control what other people do, so start with yourself.

3. Good rehearsals start with great preparation.
In almost any bad rehearsal, you can trace the spots where you and your fellow musicians didn't have great preparation. Most of the time we arrive with merely good preparation -- we listened to the pieces on the program, spent time dissecting our parts, and practiced -- but great preparation involves a higher level of understanding that provides the confidence to adapt to every unexpected shift in the piece or motion of the conductor's baton. The trick is to be so prepared for your part that you make playing it look easy.

4. Individual, Section, Ensemble
Every performer must understand his/her responsibilities as an individual, as a member of a section, and as a member of the entire ensemble. Musicians who listen to themselves alone will not find many opportunities to play, period. Musicians must listen beyond themselves and find their balance point within their section, and the section must find its balance point within the ensemble. Things go awry in a rehearsal when individuals and sections are unsure of their responsibilities and contributions to the ensemble.

5. Change Something
To prevent one bad rehearsal from becoming a string of poor efforts, individual musicians should change something in their preparation for the next rehearsal. Listen to more recordings from different performers; practice more or alter how you practiced; practice as a section before the next rehearsal; there are myriad possibilities here. The point is not to repeat the same steps that already proved to be ineffective.

Twilight: The Spelling Bee

2009-10-26T21:43:00.003-05:00

Maybe it's the cold medicine talking, but I'm having a Twilight issue today. Yes, that Twilight--the adventures of Bella, Edward, and Jacob.

With the recent release of the Twilight: New Moon soundtrack and the countdown to the film's release garnering more and more attention, it's as good a time as any to bring up an overlooked issue with the franchise. Yes, I've read the books and seen the first film. Yes, I'll go see the second film. And yes, I found them all entertaining. They aren't rocket science, they're escapism.

So if they are or aren't your cup of tea, great. But as you vocalize your praise/criticism please bear in mind this important fact: the author's name is Stephenie Meyer. Her name isn't Stephanie Meyers or any of the myriad of misspellings I've encountered. Seriously folks, she's sold more than 50 million books--have enough respect for that at least to get her name right!

First Paragraph Contest

2009-10-15T11:11:00.004-05:00

As a fan of hard-boiled detective fiction, it's the first genre I thought of when Curtis Brown literary agent Nathan Bransford announced "The 3rd Sort-of-Annual Stupendously Ultimate First Paragraph Challenge" earlier this week.

The task was simple: write a first paragraph. It's execution, however, illustrated why Bransford called it a paragraph challenge.

Amid a flurry of responses, I scribbled a paragraph and then edited it. I obsessively edited the poor thing over the course of two rather late nights (for me) before finally entering it today. Mine was the 2,363rd entry, and I don't harbor any illusions of winning -- that was never the point. The point was just to enter, a major victory in itself.

I'll post my entry after the contest closes this afternoon. It's not too late -- if you have a first paragraph ready, click on the links above and submit it.

UPDATE: Here is my entry:

After two punishing minutes of body blows and head shots, I didn't even feel the jab that finally broke my nose. Breathing was a chore and my left eye was swelling, so I focused on my legs instead. Hitting the canvas now would defeat the purpose of climbing in this ring. Everyone knows you don't get an audience with Angelo Bianchi if you can't earn some respect against his bodyguard, one of the city's best light-heavyweights. I took my beating.

My original paragraph was too long, so I edited it to the entry above. The material I cut from the end served to finish the thought of the paragraph, but I ultimately decided that it made for a better second paragraph. Here it is:

Spilled blood served as tithe and tribute--a universal currency in the neighborhood. Okay Angelo, I get it. But as the round neared its end, I also sent a message. My overconfident opponent dropped his left just enough, and I scored a right cross that sent him sprawling.

Should I have left it as one paragraph or is it better as two? Leave a comment below.

Hunnert Car Pile Up 2009

2009-10-07T08:46:00.014-05:00

The 8th Annual Hunnert Car Pile Up is this Saturday, October 10, 2009, at the Grundy County Speedway and Fairgrounds in Morris, Illinois. An absolutely unique car show event, the Pile Up is a show of traditional hot rods, customs, and motorcycles.

Strict rules for entry are enforced as your vehicle must be a traditionally built, pre-1964 '40s, '50s, or '60s hot rod or custom. And yes, the organizers do turn cars away that don't meet the show's criteria -- they created a very specific (and very cool) type of show and you'll be glad they did when you see all of the roadsters, sleds, jalopies, coupes, and gassers that show up.

More than 1,200 cars were displayed last year, but the Pile Up is about more than just the cars, it's also a celebration of car "kulture" as well. Live music featuring surf, garage, and rockabilly bands join a variety of vendors to get everyone into the spirit of the day. Pinstriping displays and a flame-throwing pit are also planned.

The gates open at 9:00 am. Admission is $20 for show cars and $5 for spectators. Grease your hair back, grab your leather jacket, and join the fun!

What I Read for Fun

2009-09-29T08:33:00.008-05:00

In a list of the people who know you the best, of course you'd include the typical round-up of family and friends. But you should also include those people who receive regular glimpses into your personal world like your barber/hairdresser and the barista at your favorite coffee/tea shop. Your unique interaction with them gives those people an interesting perspective.

Another person who should make that list is the proprietor of your local bookstore.

I know. Your list didn't include that person, but think about it. I'm not talking about the check-out person at Books-O-Zillion who only took the job for some extra pocket money and hasn't actually read a book since sophomore English. I'm talking about the person who runs that small independent bookstore down the street -- the one who made the dream of owning a bookstore come true 20+ years ago and has struggled through thick and thin to keep it going. I'm generalizing, but you get the idea.

Sandmeyer's Bookstore, located in Chicago's Printer's Row, is one of my favorite bookshops. Getting to know the shop's owners has reaped significant literary rewards, because they know the types of books I've written, the types of books that I edit, and the books that I read just for me. (When they first asked what kind of books I read for fun, I wasn't sure how to answer. I'm always reading with writing in mind, so I hesitated.)

They caught on to my tastes quickly as I placed orders for science fiction titles from the Del Rey Star Wars line, the latest from Terry Brooks, five copies of Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book (stunning -- you should read it immediately and give copies to all of your friends, I did), and Terry Pratchett's brilliant Nation. On a recommendation from my students, I read Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga, and the Sandmeyers made an interesting note: this is one of the only series of books where they have watched interest spread from kids to adults.

Then there were the detective stories. I'm up to "J" is for Judgement in Sue Grafton's mystery series. The Sandmeyers quickly recommended Michael Harvey's The Chicago Way and when its follow-up The Fifth Floor debuted, my copy was waiting for me the same day. I could have kicked myself last Friday when I realized that Sara Paretsky's newest V.I. Warshawski novel, Hardball, came out Tuesday and I'd been distracted because I was pouring through Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol. I'd heard about Hardball months ago and made a mental note to pick it up but dropped the ball on the release date. The shop had plenty of copies, however, and I cracked it open yesterday.

Make friends with the proprietor(s) of your local independent bookstore -- I didn't miss out on a book I'd been looking forward to all year because they know what I read for fun.

What are you reading for fun right now? Click "comments" below and share.

Toy Auction

2009-09-26T11:52:00.005-05:00

Today and tomorrow (Sept. 25 and 26, 2009) Bertoia Auctions is holding part II of its auction of the Donald Kaufman collection. A noted collector of pristine prewar toys, the Kaufman collection hosts many rare cast-iron, tin litho, European, and early toys. The tractor above is an Arcade John Deere A with its original box and is just one example of the beautiful toys available in this auction.

Vehicle toys present include a wide assortment of airplanes to trucks, cars, farm toys, and motorcycles. It's not too late to get in on the action, get your checkbook and click the link above to join in on the fun.

On The Air

2009-09-24T11:35:00.005-05:00

As a lifelong toy collector, I have enjoyed all aspects of the hobby. I've edited and authored books on different areas of the hobby, attended toy shows all over the country, and written articles (and blogs) about toy collecting. It has also been a pleasure to share this hobby at talks in libraries and on radio shows.

Aside from finding a long sought-after piece for my collection, hanging out with other collectors at shows and talking about toys is my favorite part of this hobby. I never fail to learn from these knowledgeable people and they revitalize my enthusiasm with every conversation.

I hope that enthusiasm translates to my appearances on radio talk shows. When callers request information on the toys of their childhood, it's a pleasure to be able share a bit of toy history with them -- because that knowledge is part of the unique heritage of this hobby.

If you're in the central North Carolina area, I'll be appearing this afternoon on the Allan Handelman show on FM Talk 101.1 WZTK from 4:00 to 6:00 (or so). Allan is a wonderful guy and a very gracious host -- he's also a toy enthusiast -- and I always enjoy appearing on his show.

Chicago Toy Soldier Show

2009-09-23T14:34:00.006-05:00

Though I don't collect toy soldiers per se, I do collect the drummers that toy soldier companies have been considerate enough to release through the years. As a drummer myself, I can't pass up Barclay snare drummers, especially if they still have their hats. I've found a few at the Kalamazoo Toy Show and the Chicago Toy Show -- soon I'll have a nice drumline across my desk!

On Sunday, September 27, 2009, the Chicago Toy Soldier Show will be held at the Hyatt Regency Woodfield hotel in Schaumburg, IL (1800 Golf Rd.). This is North America's premiere toy soldier event, and one not to be missed if you collect miniature soldiers. The doors open Sunday at 10:00 am and the show continues through 3:30 pm, though this show is famous for its room trading in the days before the actual show. Click the links above for more information.

If you're interested in learning more about collecting toy soldiers, I highly recommend you pick up a subscription to Old Toy Soldier magazine. Its articles are well researched and always informative. You'll be able to keep up with toy soldier shows and get acquainted with the international network of toy dealers who can help you find just about everything you'd want for your collection.

Marching Band Competitions

2009-09-18T09:41:00.004-05:00

Ever find yourself on the highway early on a fall morning and wonder where all those sets of school busses could possibly be going?

Maybe you saw the first set of busses pass by in the haze of the predawn light and didn't notice the pickup pulling a long trailer behind them. By the second or third time you saw busses across the divided highway, the sun was well on its way to rising and now you noticed the different school names on the busses and the school colors adorning the long trailers. This time you also noticed the fleet of cars following along. Did that school really have its own semi-truck?

Where are all of these people headed?

To marching band competitions.

The competitive high school marching band season runs (primarily) on weekends during the months of September and October -- and it kicked off in most states last weekend. Competitions come in all shapes and sizes -- some include a parade requirement along with the field show segment, while others are strictly field show competitions. (In simplest terms, field shows are the shows high school marching bands perform during the halftime of home football games. The competitions are showcase events where bands perform their field shows for a panel of judges.)

Regardless, it takes months of practice, preparation, and fund raising to prepare a show and get bands to and from competitions.

Why tell you all of this? Two reasons, really. First, if you have elementary-aged children and think that they might be musically inclined, find a competition in your area and go. You'll open their eyes to a whole new musical perspective that they won't get in a concert hall or theater. Second, for the next two months thousands of people will be on the road at all hours of the day going to or coming home from marching competitions -- drive safe!

[Note to spelling whiz kids: according to Webster's the plural of "bus" may be spelled "busses" or "buses." I like "busses."]

2009 Windy City Comicon

2009-09-16T11:12:00.006-05:00

The 2nd Annual Windy City Comicon will be held Saturday, September 19, 2009. The event runs from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and will be held at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, Chicago, Illinois. Tickets are only $10!

This comics-oriented con will showcase the Chicago area's finest comic art talent, plus a host of creators from around the country. If you're looking for a comics convention that focuses on the comics from start to finish, this is the event for you. The con features a number of special guests including Gene Ha, David Petersen, Geof Darrow, Tony Moore, Skottie Young, and Richard Starkings.

A full schedule of events includes a Hero Initiative Sketch Jam at 11:00 am; spotlight panels on Richard Starkings and Skottie Young; a writing comics panel featuring B. Clay Moore, Sean McKeever, and Will Pfeiffer; a conversation panel with professional inkers; and a web comics panel. In addition, the exhibit floor will be filled with comic book/trade paperback/graphic novel/toy/game vendors.

If you attend the con, please take a few photos to share. Leave a comment below with your contact information, and I'll be in touch! Thanks!

Have fun and don't forget your sketchbooks!

Blueberry Festival Car Show

2009-09-05T09:37:00.004-05:00

The arrival of Labor Day Weekend means it's time for the annual Marshall County Blueberry Festival. The family-friendly event runs from September 4-7 in Plymouth, Indiana, and features a carnival, craft fair, food vendors, musical entertainment, and a lot of other activities. But my favorite feature is the car show.

The Hoosier Old Wheels Car Show & Swap Meet will take place Sunday, September 6, and is a terrific event that features all makes and models of cars from prewar classics to muscle cars to hot rods. Sponsored each year by the Hoosier Old Wheels car club, the judged show is well organized and obviously run by folks who enjoy sharing the old cars hobby. It's a great show to introduce someone not familiar with old cars to this hobby because of the living timeline present.

Admission to the car show is just $2. Registration for participating cars goes from 8:00 am to 11:30 am, and the awards are presented at 3:30 pm. Pictured above is the GTO Judge that won last year's "Best in Show" award.

Chicago Jazz Festival 2009

2009-09-04T08:42:00.005-05:00

Technically, the 31st Annual Chicago Jazz Festival lasts the entire month of August, as the Jazz Festival Preview nights feature the acts on the bill for the Chicago Jazz Festival performing at jazz clubs around the city. It's the three-day celebration held each Labor Day weekend that gets the official label, however, so I'll just go with that. And it starts today at noon.

An exciting new addition to the Festival is the Chicago Community Trust Young Jazz Lions Stage, the first new venue added to the Festival in ten years. Eleven Chicago-area groups were selected to perform throughout the weekend, including big bands and small ensembles from high schools and colleges, culminating in a jam session in the final hour on Sunday afternoon.

Click on the link above for the performance schedule and make plans to attend. There's something for every jazz taste: traditional, latin, world, you name it. Enjoy!

Orphan Auto Picnic 2009

2009-08-22T14:38:00.004-05:00

The 19th Annual Orphan Auto Picnic will take place on Sunday, August 23, 2009, at the Kendall County Fairgrounds near Yorkville, IL. Open to all makes and models of out-of-production "orphan" cars that are at least 20 years old, the picnic is an adventure in "they don't make 'em like that anymore." The family-friendly event is sponsored by the Chicagoland Corvair Enthusiasts. The show car gates are open from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, and the event ends at 5:00 pm.

As always, hot grilles are provided, so bring your own grillable foodstuffs. Picnic tables and beverages are also provided -- you supply the rest. And bring your camera, too. There will be plenty of cars attending that you've only seen in books or the pages of your favorite car magazine.

For more information, click the links above. Enjoy the picnic!

Review: Wednesday Comics

2009-08-14T10:47:00.005-05:00

In an age of newspaper closings and scary times for print journalism, DC Comics has released the smash hit comic of the summer, the weekly Wednesday Comics. The ultimate homage to the Sunday funnies, Wednesday Comics is a fold-out newsprint tribute to the full-color comics that generations of readers have enjoyed each Sunday. But this isn't your typical set of funny pages.

When folded, Wednesday Comics is 7" x 10", and when unfolded, 15 DC characters each receive one giant 14" x 20" page. WC is a treat for the eyes as DC has included not only its heavy-hitting characters like Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and Green Lantern, but the lively adventures of Kamandi: The Last Boy on Earth, Deadman, Metamorpho, and the Metal Men, as well.

An all-star cast of writers and artists has been assembled to create WC, and each creative team has embraced the characters and Sunday funnies format with unique interpretations. Metamorpho is written and drawn like a Silver Age classic, Batman is a noir detective tale, Strange Adventures has an underground comics appeal, and Teen Titans is inspired by modern manga techniques. Not all the stories or artistic styles will be your cup of tea, but you'll enjoy your favorites and appreciate the remarkable creativity.

Batman—by writer Brian Azzarello and artist Eduardo Risso (100 Bullets)
Kamandi—written by Dave Gibbons (Watchmen, Green Lantern Corps) with art by Ryan Sook (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Arkham Asylum: Living Hell)
Superman—written by John Arcudi (The Mask) with art by Lee Bermejo (Joker)
Deadman—written by Dave Bullock and Vinton Heuck, art by Dave Bullock
Green Lantern—written by Kurt Busiek (Trinity, Astro City) with art by Joe Quiñones (Teen Titans Go!)
Metamorpho—written by Neil Gaiman (Sandman, The Graveyard Book) with art by Michael Allred (Madman)
Teen Titans—written by Eddie Berganza with art by Sean Galloway
Adam Strange—by writer/artist Paul Pope (Batman: Year 100)
Wonder Woman—written and illustrated by Ben Caldwell (Dare Detectives)

Metal Men—written by Dan DiDio with art by Ian Churchill (Supergirl)
Supergirl—written by Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex) with art by Amanda Conner (Power Girl)
Sgt. Rock—written by Adam Kubert (Superman: Last Son), illustrated by Joe Kubert
The Flash—written by Karl Kerschl (Teen Titans Year One, The Flash: The Fastest Man Alive) and Brenden Fletcher, illustrated by Karl Kerschl
The Demon and Catwoman—written by Walter Simonson (Thor, Manhunter) with art by DC cover artist Brian Stelfreeze
Hawkman—written and illustrated by Kyle Baker (Plastic Man, Special Forces)

Wednesday Comics will only run for 12 issues and issue #6 shipped this week. It's not too late to see why WC has fans (me, too!) running for their local comics shops each week -- pick up an issue (only $3.99) and enjoy the funnies the way they'd look if you were in charge of DC Comics.

Review: Passport to Peril

2009-08-13T08:36:00.004-05:00

The latest release from Hard Case Crime is a re-issue of Robert B. Parker's 1951 espionage classic, Passport to Peril. Not to be confused with the Robert B. Parker (the "B" is for Brown) who writes the Spenser novels, Robert Bogardus Parker was a lifelong newspaper man. A European correspondent during World War II, Parker filed his reports throughout Eastern Europe and was secretly an agent for the OSS, crossing borders without papers and trying to stay one step ahead of the Gestapo.

Parker's experiences contributed heavily to his handful of crime/espionage novels. In Passport to Peril, American reporter John Stodder feigns Swiss citizenship and travels from Vienna to Budapest on a false passport to discover the fate of his missing brother. As the Orient Express hurries along, Stodder learns that his phony passport belonged to a murder victim whose secretary is secretly carrying a mysterious manila envelope that must not fall into the hands of her Russian or German pursuers. Stodder is suddenly knee-deep in spies from all sides and becomes the only person to know the location of the crucial manila envelope.

This page-turner is the perfect example of an early spy thriller. With its solid cast of characters and a pulpish plot favoring suspenseful turns, Parker created a genre classic. You'll also enjoy the afterword by Parker's daughter that sheds some light on the author's real-life adventures.

[Update, August 24, 2009: I also posted a review of this title on the Comics Buyer's Guide forums.]

Comic-Con 2009

2009-07-23T04:43:00.005-05:00

Comic-Con International: San Diego is upon us! The world's largest comic book/pop culture celebration officially opens its doors this morning.

You'll no boubt hear news blurbs about the crowds of 100,000+ people that cram themselves into the San Diego Convention Center and maybe they'll think to show an image or two of whatever the next big movie will be (my money would be on Twilight: New Moon for that) from the convention floor. But what they won't show you is the best reason to attend -- the assembly of so many creative people is inspiring. Writers and artists of all disciplines, experience, and talent levels all under one enormous roof casts a unique atmosphere of creative inspiration. And if you're fortunate enough to look past the celebrities, the Hollywood, the video games, and the latest offerings from toy companies, Comic-Con is a powerful recharge for your creative batteries.

That's why I'm hopping on a plane this morning and jumping headfirst into the fray. I don't think anyone will ask me to recite the Green Lantern's pledge in order to get my recharge, but I'm ready if someone brings it up.

Because I write a review-based column ("The O'Brien Factor") for Comic Buyer's Guide magazine, I'll be avaialble at their booth (#1419) at various times during the convention. If you're a comics creator and would like to submit your book for consideration in my column, you can drop it off at the table any time.

Highland Community Concert Band in Concert

2009-07-18T10:13:00.003-05:00

On Sunday, July 19, 2009, the Highland Community Concert Band under the direction of Mr. Greg Jasek will perform a concert of patriotic music at Main Square Park in Highland, Indiana. The concert will begin at 7:00 pm. Admission is free and you should bring your own lawn chairs.

Main Square Park
3001 Ridge Rd.
Highland, IN

Rain location is the Lincoln Center
2450 Lincoln St.
Highland, IN

South Shore Brass Band in Concert

2009-07-18T07:39:00.003-05:00

The South Shore Brass Band will be in concert at the Coffee Creek Ampitheatre in Chesterton, IN, on Saturday, July 18, 2009. The 6:00 pm concert will feature traditional brass band favorites and patriotic music. Admission is free. Bring lawn chairs and enjoy the evening.

US 30 Dragstrip Reunion

2009-06-26T09:07:00.004-05:00

Here's a show that makes the case for my previous post. The listing was in Hemmings and not in Old Cars Weekly. So glad I found it when I did.

The US 30 Dragstrip Reunion will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2009, at White's Pit Stop in Shererville, Ind. The event begins at 9:00 a.m. The show will feature hundreds of race cars and a car show with hot rods, classics, and muscle cars. Everyone with fond memories of the famous US 30 Dragstrip is encouraged to attend and share your stories.

Here's the info:

White's Pit Stop

330 E. U.S. Highway 30

Shererville, IN

For more information call David White or Steven White (219) 865-3337

Admission is free

9:00 a.m. - ?

Show Calendar

2009-06-26T08:03:00.003-05:00

I'm busy this summer -- the good kind of busy -- and have been attending all kinds of great car shows, toy shows, and comics shows, too.

Planning my weekend activities usually starts with a look at the Show Calendar section of Old Cars Weekly, Hemmings Motor News, or Toy Farmer magazines. And I've noticed a disturbing trend -- the calendar sections are smaller in the magazines than ever, as are their online counterparts.

It's tempting to suppose that there are fewer listings because fewer shows are being held, and it's true that many shows have disappeared from the hobbies. But I'm of a different opinion. I think that the current generation of show promoters doesn't know where to promote their shows. Perhaps they aren't tuned in to the magazines, or they assume that someone else will pass on the information, or they just don't understand how important it is to get the word out to hobbyists early. We can't attend your show if we don't know it's happening. And those Show Calendar listings are done by Old Cars Weekly and Toy Farmer for free. Hemmings will give you an online listing for free and a print listing up to 50 words for free.

Several local shows have already taken place in my neck of the woods that I never knew about. There were no listings in the car magazines and I didn't find anything in the local papers. I learned about one show because of a crude sign placed by a stop light at a busy intersection -- turns out the town was having a car show at a local park. They drew about 80 cars. They could have doubled that if they had sent notices to the magazines.

You don't need to be a show promoter to submit info to the magazines -- just send the show flyer with the event and contact information.

Here's where to send the info for car shows/cruise nights/related events:
Old Cars Weekly
Show Calendar
700 E. State St.
Iola, WI 54990
oldcars@krause.com

Hemmings Motor News
(800) 227-4373

For toy shows (I miss the calendar from Toy Shop, don't you?):
Toy Farmer
7496 106th Ave. SE
LaMoure, ND 58458-9404
(800) 533-8293
info@toyfarmer.com

And for comic book shows:
Comics Buyer's Guide
Show Calendar
700 E. State
Iola, WI 54990
showscalendar@krause.com

Peotone Swap Meet and Car Display

2009-06-09T08:48:00.004-05:00

Sunday June 14 is the 37th Annual Swap Meet and Car Display hosted by the Tri-Chevy Association at the Will County Fairgrounds in Peotone, Illinois.

One of my favorite shows of the year, Peotone attracts cars from Illinois and Indiana, of course, but also regularly features cars from Missouri, Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan, and Ohio as well. Because the show is sponsored by the Tri-Chevy Association, some of the area's finest 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevys are on display. Bring your camera, and if you're a model car builder, bring a notebook -- there is no better place to do original research on these Chevys for one of your builds.

The show is open to all makes and models, antiques, classics, street machines, street rods, trucks, corvettes, originals, and rat rods. There will be a car corral with vehicles for sale.

Several years ago, I was editing the Standard Catalog of Corvette and needed a photo of a 1960 Corvette. We didn't have any photos of that year in our archives, and it was starting to look like that chapter was going to appear without any images. But Peotone was right around the corner, and I made the trip with my dad. Sure enough, a gorgeous mint-green 1960 Corvette arrived from southern Wisconsin, and the enthusiastic owner allowed me to photograph his car for the book. Peotone is that kind of show -- no matter what you're looking for, you'll probably find it.

Last year, the show took place just a day after a tornado ripped through the area and closed down parts of I-57. This year, I'm sure the organizers have put in a request for better weather. :)

Slam Bang #4

2009-05-28T08:59:00.005-05:00

I was delighted to find the highly anticipated new issue of Slam Bang the Explosive Comic Anthology in my box the other day. Creator Allen Freeman is a frequent contributor to my column for Comics Buyer's Guide magazine, and Slam Bang is one of my favorite indie anthologies.

New issues appear roughly once each year and vol. III no. 4 features a music theme. The comics represent a wide variety of artistic styles, and I always appreciate that diversity. Some are funny, some make you think, and all are entertaining.

It also includes an excellent CD of indie bands -- I recommend reading the book while listening to set the proper (fun!) frame of mind. The black-and-white comics are printed on high-quality paper and square bound, making this a durable 6" x 9" book that will shelve nicely with your trade paperbacks.

The talented Charlene Chua provided the cover art and set the perfect tone for this fun issue. Freeman also includes an interview with comics creator Brad Foster. At just $9.95, Slam Bang is a bargain -- but be sure to pick up two issues. If your friends are like mine, one of those copies is sure to be "borrowed."

Chicago Drum Show

2009-05-15T09:41:00.004-05:00

Okay not-so-modern drummers, your big weekend is finally here! The 19th Annual Chicago Drum Show is May 16-17 at the Kane Co. Fairgrounds (525 South Randall Rd., St Charles, Illinois). The show opens to the public both days from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and admission is $15 for each day.

The impressive lineup of clinicians includes: Jane Boxall, Zoro, Will Calhoun, Donny Osborne, Bermuda Schwartz, and Danny Seraphine, with a special appearance by W.S. "Fluke" Holland (Johnny Cash's drummer). The exhibit area includes vendors from around the country featuring the best of vintage and custom drums, parts, and accessories.

For more information on the show, click HERE.

Kalamazoo Toy Show

2009-05-14T10:16:00.005-05:00

The Circus Maximus Toy Show is this Saturday, May 16, 2009. Held twice annually at the Kalamazoo Co. Fairgrounds, it's the biggest show in Michigan. And it's one of the finest toy shows in the Midwest. Period.

Like me, you may know it best simply as the "Kalamazoo Toy Show," but no matter what you call it, this show has something for everyone. Vintage pressed steel, cast-iron toys, gas-powered cars, tin wind-ups, and pedal cars all share the grounds with battery-ops, action figures, die-cast cars (Tootsietoy, Corgi, Dinky, Husky, Matchbox, Hot Wheels and more), farm toys, cap pistols, space toys, and even PEZ dispensers.

Bruce and Dee Beimers have been hosting the show since 1983 and should probably write a book on how to organize and promote a show through all of the ups and downs, changes and trends that accompany a long-running show. One of the "secrets" to their organizational success is that they've kept the show dates consistent--always the third Friday/Saturday in May and always the Friday/Saturday after Thanksgiving in November. Their consistent approach to advertising in a wide variety of hobby publications is certainly one "secret" to their promotional success. And their genuine love for the toy collecting hobby isn't a secret at all -- it's the magic that makes the show a treat for everyone.

Click HERE for additional information about the show. The doors open Saturday morning at 9 a.m. (EST).

The Top 5 “Don’ts” When Submitting Your Completed Manuscript

2009-05-12T09:17:00.002-05:00

Congratulations—you pitched your book, it was accepted by a publisher, the contracts were signed, and you embarked on your literary journey. Hopefully, you were in contact with an editorial representative from your publisher during the writing process who answered your questions and provided direction when needed.

Despite this editorial presence, however, authors often submit completed manuscripts to the publisher that are absolute disasters. Once the in-house editor receives a manuscript, the book’s individual production schedule begins. If that manuscript is a living wreck, editors will spend many long hours fixing the problems in addition to actually editing the text—while desperately attempting to keep the whole project within the allotted time schedule.

Problem projects usually cause an editor to make a negative recommendation to the acquisitions team regarding any future projects with the offending author. Developing a good working relationship with your editor from the start is good business for your current book as well as your next.

Work with your editor through good communication. As an editor, I've encountered my fair share of easily avoidable manuscript messes. The following “don’ts” have all happened in my professional career, and the best way to avoid them is to follow one simple rule: always communicate, never assume.

1. Don’t ignore the publisher’s Author Manual.
Most publishers distribute an Author Manual or set of guidelines for writing a manuscript. You’ll likely receive this when your contract is signed. Read it! Follow it! This manual contains useful information on everything from setting up your page in Word (i.e. 1” margins, double-spaced type, etc.) to which style (Chicago Manual of Style, Associated Press, etc.) the publisher uses.

The guidelines will contain many common sense suggestions that you may be aware of already, but don’t make the mistake of not reading the whole thing. By not reading, you’ll miss something simple but important.

2. Don’t attempt to “format” your manuscript.
If I had a dollar for every time authors inserted a manual return in a manuscript because they thought that “the page will look better if it breaks here,” I’d have a Ferrari in my garage. The editor and designer will handle formatting as the book is copy edited and designed.

Do indicate section breaks within chapters using whatever method your publisher outlined. And do fire off an email to your editor when a question arises regarding block quotes, footnotes, or anything else that gives you a moment’s pause.

3. Don’t include photos without identification or captions.
Mystery photos are fun in trivia contests, but you can’t assume that your editor will know what or who is depicted in the photos that accompany your manuscript. The publisher’s Author Manual will likely include a section devoted to its preferred method for identifying and captioning images. Follow it! Do not invent something you like better. The publisher’s system is in place for specific reasons that you don’t necessarily need to know, but if you still have questions, ask. (If your publisher is providing the photos/captions, take extra care to examine them at the proofreading stage for accuracy.)

4. Don’t re-submit chapters to your editor after the manuscript is turned in.
Unless you cleared this with your editor first, do not send a revised Chapter 3 to your editor two weeks after your deadline with a cheery note that you “fixed a few things.” Your editor may have already copy edited Chapter 3 and rather than helping, you just added more work for a busy editor with looming production deadlines. If you notice problems after the manuscript is submitted, notify your editor immediately and together you can decide on the best course of action.

5. Don’t assume your work is done when you submit the completed manuscript.
When the pages are designed you’ll receive a copy to proofread. Take this step seriously—depending on the publisher’s preferences and production schedule, this may be your only opportunity to view the pages before the book goes to the printer. Take special care with photos and make sure that each photo has its proper caption. Mistakes occur, and it’s better to take care at this stage than apologize for errors once the book hits store shelves.

Depending on your publisher, you’ll also have a variety of small tasks to perform for the marketing and/or public relations departments including submitting an appropriate author photo (select something professional, no pictures of you on your last boating trip, please), writing a brief personal biography, and being available for media interviews. You are your book’s best advocate to the public, and your promotion efforts are well worth the investment of your time.

Flag Etiquette

2009-05-11T12:51:00.003-05:00

With Armed Forces Day coming up this Saturday and Memorial Day just two weeks away, I've started to see more American flags flying on homes and businesses around town. While I applaud the patriotic spirit that obviously motivates flying the flag, I've seen quite a few breaches of flag etiquette recently.

Flag etiquette?

Yep, there are rules and regulations in place regarding the display of the U.S. flag. Some you are probably aware of, such as don't let the flag touch the ground and when flying multiple flags on one flagpole the U.S. flag always has the highest position. Some rules, however, seem to not have made it into daily use. Did you know that when displaying the flag in a vertical or horizontal manner that the union (the blue field with 50 stars) should be positioned in the upper right as the flag looks out from the wall? In other words, the union should be in the upper left corner as you look at the hanging flag.

Here is a site that explains some of the rules and regulations for displaying the flag that also has some very useful images.

Here is another site that contains excellent flag etiquette information.

Windy City Pulp & Paper Convention

2009-05-01T13:35:00.002-05:00

The 9th Windy City Pulp & Paper Convention starts today and goes through Sunday. The event is at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center. The guest of honor is Will Murray, who wrote the Doc Savage books as Kenneth Robeson. If you like pulp fiction, this is the place to be.

Joe Gentile from Moonstone Books will be there, and I'll try to get some impressions of the show from him next week. If you're there, check out the prose books from Moonstone -- good stuff!

Dealer room hours are:
Friday: Noon to 6:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

For more information:
Westin Lombard Yorktown Center
70 Yorktown Center
Lombard, IL 60148
888-627-9031

Hard Case Crime New Release

2009-05-01T12:35:00.007-05:00

The folks at Hard Case Crime have outdone themselves this month. While the company is known for re-publishing quality out-of-print titles, most of those selections were written decades ago. Not so with this month's new release Casino Moon by Peter Blauner -- it debuted just 15 years ago.

So why re-publish such a relatively "new" title? According to Editor Charles Ardai, "Because I love this book. And I don't think it got the readership or the attention it deserved the first time out . . .Casino Moon came and went largely unnoticed, despite telling one of the most involving crime stories, about some of the most memorable characters, I've read in years."

At the time Casino Moon was first published, author Peter Blauner had already won the Edgar Award for Best First Novel with Slow Motion Riot, but he hadn't yet become the New York Times best-selling author that he would with his next book, The Intruder.

"Plus," Ardai added, "bringing this book back into print gave me the chance to commission a boxing cover illustration from the brilliant painter Ricky Mujica, who was himself a Gold Gloves boxer before swapping right hooks and upercuts for brushstrokes."

Munster Car Show

2009-04-30T09:23:00.003-05:00

The 11th Annual Munster Car Show will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2009, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Munster Community Park. The rain date is May 9. The show is open to all makes and models. Enjoy!

Here's the info:
Munster Car Show
Saturday, May 2
9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Munster Community Park
1154 Ridge Rd
Munster, IN 46321
(219) 836-7275

Pate Swap Meet

2009-04-30T08:49:00.008-05:00

Texans can proudly hold up the Pate Swap Meet as proof that everything really is bigger in the Lone Star state. One of the largest swap meets in the country, the 37th Annual Pate Swap Meet starts today and runs through Sunday.

Hosted at the Texas Motor Speedway in Ft. Worth, Pate is a combined fundraising effort for 17 Texas antique automobile clubs. The sprawling facility will be loaded all weekend with parts and pieces for everything from street rods to prewar classics. Admission is free and a free parts hauling service means you can go ahead and buy those oversized parts even though you're far from where you parked.

If go to Pate this weekend, click "Comments" below and let me know what treasures you find.

For more information, click on the logo above.

Chicago G.I. Joe Show

2009-04-28T09:03:00.004-05:00

The Chicago G.I. Joe & Action Figure Show 2009 will be held this Sunday, May 3. Sponsored by the Chicago G.I. Joe Collector's Club, the show will take place at Harry D. Jacobs High School in Algonquin, Ill. It will open to the public at 9:00 am and close at 3:00 pm.

In addition to the dealers, patrons will enjoy 1:6-scale and 3-3/4" dioramas and displays of custom figures. Classic G.I. Joe videos will also be shown. No matter which era you prefer -- painted hair figures of the 1960s, flocked hair figures with Kung-Fu grip from the '70s, the 3-3/4" figures of the '80s (through today), or the 12" collector's editions -- if you're a G.I. Joe collector, you don't want to miss this show!

And the admission fees are going to benifit the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, so bring a friend or two or three...

Here's the info:

Chicago G.I. Joe & Action Figure Show 2009

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Harry D. Jacobs High School

2601 Bunker Hill Dr.

Algonqin, IL 60102

Show hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (Early Birds 8:00 to 9:00 am)

Admission: $4, under 10 years old is free

Early bird admission: $6

Chicago Toy Show

2009-04-24T10:11:00.003-05:00

The Chicago Toy Show is this Sunday, April 26, 2009. As always, the event will be held at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 South Randall Road in St. Charles, IL 60174. The show opens to the public at 8:00 am and will go until 3:00 pm. Admission is $7.

During the 35 (or is it 36 now?) years that the show has been held, it has been known as the Kane Co. show, the Antique Toy World show, or simply, the Chicago show. No matter what you call it, this is one of the finest antique toy shows in the country. Oh yes, it's a doll show, too. Major auction houses come to preview their upcoming auctions, toy dealers and customers from around the world attend, and if you collect toys, this is the place to be.

The show is run by Dale Kelley of Antique Toy World magazine, and the improved facilites at the fairgrounds have made the show even more fun for everyone.

For more information and driving directions, go to the website.

Free Comic Book Day Isn't Free

2009-04-23T09:23:00.006-05:00

Several people have asked about Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) lately, and I thought I'd explain a few details.

First, the comics that are free on FCBD are ones prepared and released especially for the event. Most will have the FCBD logo on them, and most stores will have one area dedicated to the free titles. The regular release titles (those that line the store shelves every day) are for sale. Store owners definitely encourage you to browse their shelves, but if you're not a regular comics reader please do remember to take care when handling the books -- condition is important.

Second, those "free" comics aren't really free. The stores do pay for the titles that they hand out on FCBD, and I think this is an overlooked aspect of this festive day. They also pay for the FCBD signs, shirts, and advertising that brought you to their store. Some stores host comics creators for the event and can incur costs bringing these professionals in for signings. Other stores host costume contests, provide door prizes, or offer other costly efforts to make the event enjoyable.

Third, not every store will offer every free comic produced for this event. Store owners select the comics that they think will appeal to the audience most likely to walk through their door and order what their budget will permit. If you couldn't find a particular free comic at your local store, you'll probably have to try another location.

Fourth, spend some money in the store that day. If you're a store regular with a pull list, pick up your comics that day. Better yet, toss in a few titles you've been thinking about trying anyway. If you just came in for the event, give a few titles a try. With the amazing volume and variety of trade paperback collections available, you can pick up on the current storyline of your favorite character by reading a couple of trades. Someone in the store can help you find what you're looking for, just ask.

Fifth, bring the kids. Yes, there are comics appropriate for kids! No, you won't find them at the grocery store like you did when you were a kid. In addition to the good kid-friendly titles produced just for FCBD, there are a number of monthly titles available for young readers and tweens, too. Strike up a conversation at your comic shop on FCBD and they'll help you find them.

If stores don't have good traffic through the door and don't post good sales on FCBD, they won't have much incentive to continue to participate in future events -- and that would be a shame. This event brings a lot of positive attention to the world of comics, and comics readers need to support it in any way that they can.

South Shore Brass Band

2009-04-20T13:29:00.005-05:00

On May 2, 2009, the South Shore Brass Band will present its spring concert at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso, Ind. The concert will begin at 7:00 and include traditional brass band selections like First Suite and English Suite as well as marches like Americans We and more contemporary pieces.

It should be a great performance in that historic hall. Here are the details:

South Shore Brass Band
In Concert
Saturday, May 2, 2009
7:00 pm

At the
Memorial Opera House
104 Indiana Ave.

Valparaiso, IN 46383

Tickets available by calling:
(219) 548-9137
For more information, email:
info@mohlive.com

$12 adults
$10 seniors
$7 students w/i.d.

S.P.A.C.E. con

2009-04-16T09:36:00.003-05:00

The Small Press and Alternative Comics Expo (S.P.A.C.E.) is this weekend, April 18-19. One of the best shows of the year for indie comics creators and fans, S.P.A.C.E. will take place at the Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus, Ohio. The show is open from 10am to 6pm on Saturday and from 10am to 5pm on Sunday. Admission is $5 for one day or $8 for both.

The exhibitor tables are sold out and the programming schedule offers a varitey of panels, discussions and cool exhibits. Check out the website for more info and have a great time at the con!

Farm Toy Show, Walnut IL

2009-04-16T09:24:00.003-05:00

Attention farm toy collectors!

For those of you in the north-central Illinois area this Sunday, April 19, the 23rd Annual Farm & Toy Show will be held at the Bureau Valley North school gym. The school is located at 323 S. Main St. in Walnut, Illinois, and the show will run from 9am to 3pm. For more information call (815) 303-8764.

Sounds like a nice show!

2009 Eisner Award Nominees

2009-04-10T11:40:00.005-05:00

The 2009 Eisner Award nominees were released this week, and it's a very diverse list that features entries from 38 publishers. Named for famed cartoonist Will Eisner, the awards are the Oscars of the comics world and are handed out each year during a ceremony at Comic-Con International San Diego.

The nice thing about the list is that it serves as a "recommended reading list" for the summer. I'm already familiar with quite a few of the titles nominated, but those that I don't know will spark conversations for the next several months. I must admit that Willie & Joe is a personal favorite, and I'll be cheering for it.

Classics Illustrated: The Raven

2009-04-07T09:34:00.009-05:00

Just received a review copy of Classics Illustrated: The Raven and other Poems from the folks at Papercutz.

Their successful revival of the Classics Illustrated series continues with this collection of Edgar Allan Poe's masterpiece, "The Raven," and other poems including, "Eldorado," "Annabel Lee," "The City in the Sea," "The Sleeper, " "The Haunted Palace," and "The Conqueror Worm" as interpreted by Gahan Wilson, the hilarious and insightful cartoonist for The New Yorker.

Wilson's style is perfectly suited to Poe's turn of phrase, as his artwork moves across the page with the cadence established by the words. But don't take my word for it. At $9.95 this modern classic is a bargain -- so order two copies and donate one to your local library!

Interview with Thom Zahler

2009-04-04T07:03:00.004-05:00

For my column, "The O'Brien Factor," in issue #1652 of Comics Buyer's Guide magazine, I had the pleasure of interviewing writer/artist/self publisher Thom Zahler. Zahler is the creator of Love and Capes, a super hero/sitcom/romance comic book about Mark, the super hero, and Abby, his normal bookstore-owner girlfriend.

The comic is brilliant, but don't take my word for it, Zahler posts panels to the website so you can check it out for yourself. Then you can feel free to click on "Comments" below and tell me what you liked about it.

My intervew with Zahler included much more material than I could use in the magazine, so I'm posting the unabbreviated version of his answers HERE. I'll add another question/answer every couple of days, so be sure to check back often.

Charlotte Auto Fair

2009-04-03T11:27:00.007-05:00

The Charlotte Auto Fair began yesterday and goes on through Sunday at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Charlotte, North Carolina. Hosted by the Hornet's Nest Region AACA club, the event is billed as the "Largest Collector Vehicle Event in the Southeast," and with an expected crowd of 150,000 and 10,000 swap meet vendor spaces, I can't dispute the claim.

The AACA (Antique Automobile Club of America) will be holding its National Spring Meet car show on Saturday, April 4, in conjunction with the Auto Fair. This is one event I'm adding to my "Gotta Get There Someday" list. Hope you have great weather, Charlotte!

Free Comic Book Day

2009-04-02T19:42:00.008-05:00

Let the countdown to Free Comic Book Day begin! We are just one month from one of the best events of the year, and I can't wait.

For those of you who might not be aware, on the first Saturday in May comics created especially for the event will be offered free of charge at participating comic shops nationwide. No kidding -- free comics. So there's no misunderstanding -- the only comics that retailers will have for free are those created for the day -- regular releases on their shelves are not free.

This year's selection of FCBD comics is one of the best lineups yet. Material for all ages and reading levels mean that there will be comics for everyone. Got kids that don't read yet -- Owly & Friends from Top Shelf is full of wordless adventures. Go to the site and click on "The Comics" to see a complete lineup.

Don't know where to find a comic book shop? Use the FCBD locator on the site, just type in your zip code and it will give you a list of shops in your area. Many shops are planning special events that day, so you may even find comics professionals making appearances. Call the shop in advance to find out what they are planning. If you're a professional, please add your appearances to the growing list on the site -- and join in the discussion on CBGxtra.

We're only a month away, so get the word out to teachers, librarians, comics fans and everyone else you know. Be sure to add the event at your local shop to community calendars, as well.

The BIG READ

2009-04-01T08:37:00.003-05:00

The Columbia College Library is presenting a month-long series of events for the annual BIG READ. The featured book is Ray Bradbury's masterpiece, Fahrenheit 451.

What is the BIG READ? Glad you asked. From the site:

In 2004, the National Endowment for the Arts released a report entitled, Reading at Risk: A Survey of Literary Reading, and its findings revealed that during the period 1982-2002, reading has declined at a high rate among all ages, but particularly in the younger age groups. As a result, the National Endowment for the Arts developed the BIG READ initiative in 2006 to address this problem, with the fundamental goal of restoring reading to the center of American culture.

Visit the site and check out The BIG READ. You don't have to attend the events to get a lot out of this series -- heck, go buy a copy of the book and follow along online.

Reading less as a society is a scary thought. Or are we just reading more junk?

Blue Man Group

2009-03-30T08:59:00.005-05:00

Have you experienced Blue Man Group lately? If not, make sure to take in a show. There is enough music and controlled mayhem to keep everyone happy.

One nice thing about Blue Man is that not everyone will get every reference or skit -- and that's okay. There was a quick reference to the German phrase "sturm und drang," which means "storm and stress," and only a few people in the audience laughed. That's fine, the rapid-fire delivery of the next funny bit lets you move on without feeling like you might have missed something.

Every drummer you know must see the show. The layers of rhythm present between the three Blue Men and the stage band are a treat to dissect -- especially the effortless use of 3 against 2. Enjoy!

Hard Case Crime

2009-03-27T19:52:00.005-05:00

Just received a review copy of The Cutie by Donald E. Westlake -- it's the latest noir release from Hard Case Crime. The paperback is a new edition of his first novel and the first to ever appear under the title he originally intended it to have.

Westlake passed away this past New Year's Eve at the age of 75. The Cutie is the first of his books to be published after his death. Here's the book's description:

"Mavis St. Paul had been a rich man's mistress. Now she was a corpse. And every cop in New York City was hunting for the two-bit punk accused of putting a knife in her. But the punk was innocent. He'd been set up to take the fall by some cutie who was too clever by half. My job? Find that cutie--before the cutie found me."

Westlake was a gifted storyteller, I'm definitely looking forward to diving in and writing the review. If you like crime fiction, especially crime fiction with a noir flavor, check out Hard Case Crime.

Welcome

2009-03-25T22:33:00.002-05:00

For those of you who remember my "Leave it to Karen" column in Toy Shop magazine, this blog will be an extension of the concept. It will also include some of the fun elements of my "Babe in Toyland" blog.

Look forward to images and reports from my travels to shows covering everything from farm toys and antique automobiles to comic books, pulp fiction, antique toys, and anything else I can think of.