Press release from Business Wire:
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Celebrates 25th Anniversary of The Polar Express
Interactive holiday calendar marks 25th year of holiday classic
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Houghton Mifflin Harcourt announced the 25th anniversary of award-winning children's book creator Chris Van Allsburg's classic book, The Polar Express. This first-person narrative of a magical Christmas Eve journey, richly illustrated with Van Allsburg's lush artwork, tells a heartwarming story of childhood faith that has become a cherished part of millions of families' holiday traditions.
To honor this landmark anniversary, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt has created an interactive online Polar Express Activity Calendar, based on the book, to count down the 25 days until Christmas. The calendar's daily family-friendly delights include a recipe for Polar Chocolate Nougat Caramel Squares, reindeer craft instructions, online games and mazes and the chance to win holiday bells and signed books. A free Calendar widget, embeddable on blogs and websites, is also available at http://www.polarexpress.com/.
"We couldn't be more proud to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this iconic picture book," said Betsy Groban, senior vice president and publisher of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Children's Book Group. "After all these years, I still get goose bumps every time I read it. Happy anniversary to The Polar Express and to its genius creator, Chris Van Allsburg."
The Company has also published an anniversary hardcover edition of The Polar Express that includes a letter from the author, companion CD with narration by actor Liam Neeson and a new keepsake ornament featuring Van Allsburg's first-ever full-length illustration of the story's Conductor.
In the quarter-century since The Polar Express was first published, this simple story of belief and hope has sold millions of copies worldwide, received a Caldecott Medal and been adapted into a feature film. Most important, it remains a steadfast reminder to readers young and old of the true magic of Christmas.
To view the Polar Express Activity Calendar, share family holiday traditions, and preview Van Allsburg's works, visit http://www.polarexpress.com/. For author information, visit http://www.chrisvanallsburg.com/.
About Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Boston-based Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company is a global education leader and the world's largest publisher of educational materials for pre-K–12 schools. The Company publishes a comprehensive set of best-in-class educational solutions, ranging from research-based textbook programs to instructional technology to standards — based assessments for students and educators. The Company also publishes an extensive line of reference works and award-winning literature for adults and young readers. With origins dating back to 1832, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt combines its tradition of excellence with a commitment to innovation. To learn more about Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, visit http://www.hmhpub.com/. [END]
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Full Meal Alchemist
I finished reading Fullmetal Alchemist, Vol. 21 (Fullmetal Alchemist (Graphic Novels))
I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin.
I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin.
Mean Joe Gets Clio... Finally!
Pittsburgh Steelers "Mean" Joe Greene won advertising's prestigious Clio Award for his famous toss-the-jersey-at-the-kid commercial, but he'd never received the trophy, until recently. Who had that damn trophy for three decades! - L
Press release from Business Wire:
Coca-Cola Presents Steelers Legend “Mean” Joe Greene with Overdue Accolade for Iconic Commercial
Greene Reunites with Co-Star from Classic 1979 Ad
PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“Mean” Joe Greene, star defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the team’s first four Super Bowl championships, was honored before the Steelers-Bengals game on Nov. 15 for some of his most celebrated work OFF the field.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the iconic “Mean Joe” TV ad for Coca-Cola, which featured the feared lineman limping down a tunnel to the locker room, followed closely by then-nine-year-old Tommy Okon, who offered a battered Greene his ice-cold bottle of Coca-Cola. As a gesture of thanks, Greene tossed his coveted jersey to the boy, who stood in amazement after encountering his hero.
For his role in the commercial, Greene earned the prestigious Clio award in 1980, recognizing creative excellence in advertising. However, he wasn’t available to accept the award at the time and never received the hardware during the ensuing 30 years. Coca-Cola recently secured the trophy and joined Steelers President Art Rooney II in presenting it to Greene in a special pre-game ceremony at Heinz Field. As part of the event, Greene and Okon, the former child actor who co-starred in the commercial, reunited for the first time in years.
“It was a special moment when we were able to finally present this Clio award to Joe,” said Bea Perez, senior vice president of integrated marketing, Coca-Cola North America. “His work in our 1979 commercial tugged at people’s heartstrings and created tremendous affection for both Joe and Coca-Cola. His accolades are well-deserved and long-overdue, and we’re proud to help get the award in the hands of its rightful owner.”
“The Coca-Cola commercial was a defining point in my life,” said Greene.
“Before, football fans knew who I was and talked about my performance on the field. Afterward, all of America seemed to know who I was and people still talk to me about it nearly every day. It was a great experience, and finally receiving the Clio is the icing on the cake.”
Since its original airing, the ad has been universally lauded. TV Guide named it one of the best commercials of all time, and it was listed among the most innovative, creative and effective commercials by the American Association of Advertising Agencies. Tens of thousands of people sent letters to The Coca-Cola Company in response to the ad, leading Coca-Cola to launch a promotion called “Win the Shirt Off My Back” which gave replica jerseys to fans by the thousands. Hollywood producers also capitalized on its popularity and developed a made-for-TV-movie called “The Steeler and the Pittsburgh Kid.” In it, Greene and his fictional football team adopt a nine-year-old boy who dreams of one day becoming quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In fact, the ad struck such a chord with fans in the United States, Coca-Cola repeated the concept with sports standouts in nations around the world, including Italy, Thailand, Argentina and Brazil. In January 2009, Coke Zero took a new twist on the beloved spot, creating an ad featuring current Steelers great Troy Polamalu which debuted during the Super Bowl.
“Mean” Joe Greene
Greene, who made up one quarter of the vaunted Steel Curtain in the 1970s, has six championship rings with the Pittsburgh Steelers – four as a player and two as a special assistant for player personnel. Following his Hall of Fame playing career, Greene spent 16 years as an assistant coach for the Steelers, Dolphins and Cardinals.
About The Coca-Cola Company
The Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world's most valuable brand, the Company's portfolio includes 12 other billion dollar brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, POWERADE, Minute Maid and Georgia Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our Web site at http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/. [END]
Press release from Business Wire:
Coca-Cola Presents Steelers Legend “Mean” Joe Greene with Overdue Accolade for Iconic Commercial
Greene Reunites with Co-Star from Classic 1979 Ad
PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“Mean” Joe Greene, star defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the team’s first four Super Bowl championships, was honored before the Steelers-Bengals game on Nov. 15 for some of his most celebrated work OFF the field.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the iconic “Mean Joe” TV ad for Coca-Cola, which featured the feared lineman limping down a tunnel to the locker room, followed closely by then-nine-year-old Tommy Okon, who offered a battered Greene his ice-cold bottle of Coca-Cola. As a gesture of thanks, Greene tossed his coveted jersey to the boy, who stood in amazement after encountering his hero.
For his role in the commercial, Greene earned the prestigious Clio award in 1980, recognizing creative excellence in advertising. However, he wasn’t available to accept the award at the time and never received the hardware during the ensuing 30 years. Coca-Cola recently secured the trophy and joined Steelers President Art Rooney II in presenting it to Greene in a special pre-game ceremony at Heinz Field. As part of the event, Greene and Okon, the former child actor who co-starred in the commercial, reunited for the first time in years.
“It was a special moment when we were able to finally present this Clio award to Joe,” said Bea Perez, senior vice president of integrated marketing, Coca-Cola North America. “His work in our 1979 commercial tugged at people’s heartstrings and created tremendous affection for both Joe and Coca-Cola. His accolades are well-deserved and long-overdue, and we’re proud to help get the award in the hands of its rightful owner.”
“The Coca-Cola commercial was a defining point in my life,” said Greene.
“Before, football fans knew who I was and talked about my performance on the field. Afterward, all of America seemed to know who I was and people still talk to me about it nearly every day. It was a great experience, and finally receiving the Clio is the icing on the cake.”
Since its original airing, the ad has been universally lauded. TV Guide named it one of the best commercials of all time, and it was listed among the most innovative, creative and effective commercials by the American Association of Advertising Agencies. Tens of thousands of people sent letters to The Coca-Cola Company in response to the ad, leading Coca-Cola to launch a promotion called “Win the Shirt Off My Back” which gave replica jerseys to fans by the thousands. Hollywood producers also capitalized on its popularity and developed a made-for-TV-movie called “The Steeler and the Pittsburgh Kid.” In it, Greene and his fictional football team adopt a nine-year-old boy who dreams of one day becoming quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In fact, the ad struck such a chord with fans in the United States, Coca-Cola repeated the concept with sports standouts in nations around the world, including Italy, Thailand, Argentina and Brazil. In January 2009, Coke Zero took a new twist on the beloved spot, creating an ad featuring current Steelers great Troy Polamalu which debuted during the Super Bowl.
“Mean” Joe Greene
Greene, who made up one quarter of the vaunted Steel Curtain in the 1970s, has six championship rings with the Pittsburgh Steelers – four as a player and two as a special assistant for player personnel. Following his Hall of Fame playing career, Greene spent 16 years as an assistant coach for the Steelers, Dolphins and Cardinals.
About The Coca-Cola Company
The Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world's most valuable brand, the Company's portfolio includes 12 other billion dollar brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, POWERADE, Minute Maid and Georgia Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our Web site at http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/. [END]
Monday, November 16, 2009
New Avengers Take on Dark Avengers in Annual
Press release from Marvel Comics:
The New Avengers Must Rescue Hawkeye From The Dark Avengers
Spinning out of Dark Avengers and New Avengers, Clint Barton (AKA Ronin) is Norman Osborn’s prisoner…but the mightiest women of the Avengers intend to change things! New Avengers Annual #3, from award winning writer Brian Michael Bendis and red hot artist Mike Mayhew present the team of Jessica Jones, Spider-Woman, Mockingbird and Ms Marvel on a quest to save their captured comrade—no matter the cost! But are the Avenger’s playing right into Norman Osborn’s hands.
Critics continue to praise New Avengers, with IGN.Com raving, “Bendis has proved to be one of the most consistent comic book writers; not only of his generation, but in the history of the form. Across myriad titles and years worth of work, the man has produced dependably good, and oftentimes great, comic books.”
Will Jessica Jones and her teammates be able to save one of their own or will their daring attempt be met with disaster? The fate of Clint Barton will forever change the Avengers and New Avengers Annual #3 has the answers!
NEW AVENGERS ANNUAL #3 (OCT090535)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Pencils and Cover by MIKE MAYHEW
Rated T+ …$4.99
FOC – 11/12/09, On Sale – 12/02/09
To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook or visit www.comicshoplocator.com
Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 5,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in licensing, entertainment (via Marvel Studios and Marvel Animation) and publishing (via Marvel Comics). Marvel's strategy is to leverage its franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world, including feature films, consumer products, toys, video games, animated television, direct-to-DVD and online. For more information visit www.marvel.com. [END]
The New Avengers Must Rescue Hawkeye From The Dark Avengers
Spinning out of Dark Avengers and New Avengers, Clint Barton (AKA Ronin) is Norman Osborn’s prisoner…but the mightiest women of the Avengers intend to change things! New Avengers Annual #3, from award winning writer Brian Michael Bendis and red hot artist Mike Mayhew present the team of Jessica Jones, Spider-Woman, Mockingbird and Ms Marvel on a quest to save their captured comrade—no matter the cost! But are the Avenger’s playing right into Norman Osborn’s hands.
Critics continue to praise New Avengers, with IGN.Com raving, “Bendis has proved to be one of the most consistent comic book writers; not only of his generation, but in the history of the form. Across myriad titles and years worth of work, the man has produced dependably good, and oftentimes great, comic books.”
Will Jessica Jones and her teammates be able to save one of their own or will their daring attempt be met with disaster? The fate of Clint Barton will forever change the Avengers and New Avengers Annual #3 has the answers!
NEW AVENGERS ANNUAL #3 (OCT090535)
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Pencils and Cover by MIKE MAYHEW
Rated T+ …$4.99
FOC – 11/12/09, On Sale – 12/02/09
To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook or visit www.comicshoplocator.com
Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 5,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in licensing, entertainment (via Marvel Studios and Marvel Animation) and publishing (via Marvel Comics). Marvel's strategy is to leverage its franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world, including feature films, consumer products, toys, video games, animated television, direct-to-DVD and online. For more information visit www.marvel.com. [END]
Dark Horse Comics Announces New Hire
Press release from Dark Horse:
DARK HORSE ANNOUNCES NEW SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
MICHA HERSHMAN JOINS THE DARK HORSE MARKETING DEPARTMENT AFTER 13 YEARS WITH BORDERS GROUP
It was announced today that Micha Hershman has joined the Dark Horse marketing department. In his thirteen-year tenure with Borders Group, Hershman developed an extensive professional experience with comics, graphic novels, science fiction, horror, and related merchandise. After handling the buyer duties for the chain’s rapidly growing graphic-novel section, he became the category director for the company’s pop-culture section. Having engineered highly successful retail and online marketing campaigns for such recognizable brands as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Twilight, and managed the children’s and fiction marketing teams, Micha comes to Dark Horse armed with both the experience and the passion needed to grow the brand’s presence in all markets.
“Dark Horse is a world-class organization, unmatched in its dedication to comics, their creators, and their fans,” said Hershman. “I couldn’t be more excited to join Mike Richardson and his team.”
“We are extremely happy to have Micha here at Dark Horse,” said President Mike Richardson. “The experience, knowledge, and enthusiasm he brings to our marketing team will be a huge resource as we look to grow Dark Horse over the coming years.”
Micha Hershman arrives in his new position at Dark Horse later this month. [END]
DARK HORSE ANNOUNCES NEW SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
MICHA HERSHMAN JOINS THE DARK HORSE MARKETING DEPARTMENT AFTER 13 YEARS WITH BORDERS GROUP
It was announced today that Micha Hershman has joined the Dark Horse marketing department. In his thirteen-year tenure with Borders Group, Hershman developed an extensive professional experience with comics, graphic novels, science fiction, horror, and related merchandise. After handling the buyer duties for the chain’s rapidly growing graphic-novel section, he became the category director for the company’s pop-culture section. Having engineered highly successful retail and online marketing campaigns for such recognizable brands as Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and Twilight, and managed the children’s and fiction marketing teams, Micha comes to Dark Horse armed with both the experience and the passion needed to grow the brand’s presence in all markets.
“Dark Horse is a world-class organization, unmatched in its dedication to comics, their creators, and their fans,” said Hershman. “I couldn’t be more excited to join Mike Richardson and his team.”
“We are extremely happy to have Micha here at Dark Horse,” said President Mike Richardson. “The experience, knowledge, and enthusiasm he brings to our marketing team will be a huge resource as we look to grow Dark Horse over the coming years.”
Micha Hershman arrives in his new position at Dark Horse later this month. [END]
Marvel Comics Launches New Series Named S.W.O.R.D.
Press release from Marvel Comics
The Astonishing X-Men Join S.W.O.R.D To Save Earth
Blasting out of Astonishing X-Men and Secret Invasion, the intergalactic S.W.O.R.D. organization now boldy takes you where no series has gone before—with the X-Men’s Beast & Lockheed along for the ride! Enter the extra-sized S.W.O.R.D. #1, from rising stars Kieron Gillen (Thor) and Steven Sanders (Five Fists of Science), as former Avengers-liason Henry Gyrich joins the enigmatic Agent Brand as top dog in space—but why does he think that ridding Earth of all aliens will save it? What will his plan do to the very fabric of the Marvel Universe? And just what does the arrival of Beast mean for S.W.O.R.D.? The answers arrive in the extra-sized S.W.O.R.D. #1, featuring a cover from superstar artist John Cassaday (Astonishing X-Men). Plus, don’t miss a bonus story by the acclaimed creative team of Gillen and artist Jamie McKelvie featuring the incomparable Lockheed!
S.W.O.R.D. #1 (SEP090475)
Written by KIERON GILLEN
Penciled by STEVEN SANDERS & JAMIE MCKELVIE
Cover by JOHN CASSADAY
Rated A …$3.99
FOC—10/22/09, On-Sale—11/18/09
To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook or visit www.comicshoplocator.com
Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 5,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in licensing, entertainment (via Marvel Studios and Marvel Animation) and publishing (via Marvel Comics). Marvel's strategy is to leverage its franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world, including feature films, consumer products, toys, video games, animated television, direct-to-DVD and online. For more information visit www.marvel.com. [END]
The Astonishing X-Men Join S.W.O.R.D To Save Earth
Blasting out of Astonishing X-Men and Secret Invasion, the intergalactic S.W.O.R.D. organization now boldy takes you where no series has gone before—with the X-Men’s Beast & Lockheed along for the ride! Enter the extra-sized S.W.O.R.D. #1, from rising stars Kieron Gillen (Thor) and Steven Sanders (Five Fists of Science), as former Avengers-liason Henry Gyrich joins the enigmatic Agent Brand as top dog in space—but why does he think that ridding Earth of all aliens will save it? What will his plan do to the very fabric of the Marvel Universe? And just what does the arrival of Beast mean for S.W.O.R.D.? The answers arrive in the extra-sized S.W.O.R.D. #1, featuring a cover from superstar artist John Cassaday (Astonishing X-Men). Plus, don’t miss a bonus story by the acclaimed creative team of Gillen and artist Jamie McKelvie featuring the incomparable Lockheed!
S.W.O.R.D. #1 (SEP090475)
Written by KIERON GILLEN
Penciled by STEVEN SANDERS & JAMIE MCKELVIE
Cover by JOHN CASSADAY
Rated A …$3.99
FOC—10/22/09, On-Sale—11/18/09
To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook or visit www.comicshoplocator.com
Marvel Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world's most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of over 5,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in licensing, entertainment (via Marvel Studios and Marvel Animation) and publishing (via Marvel Comics). Marvel's strategy is to leverage its franchises in a growing array of opportunities around the world, including feature films, consumer products, toys, video games, animated television, direct-to-DVD and online. For more information visit www.marvel.com. [END]
Return of a True Manga Classic
I finally finished The Ghost in the Shell Volume 1
I posted a review on the Comic Book Bin. This is one of the first releases from Kodansha Comics, the American shingle of Kodansha.
I posted a review on the Comic Book Bin. This is one of the first releases from Kodansha Comics, the American shingle of Kodansha.
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