Press Release: A state-of-the-art downtown venue, new dates and fresh celebrity guests mark the third Wizard World Toronto Comic Con, which today announced its standout lineup scheduled to attend the event, April 14-15 at Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC). Popular screen stars Paul Wesley, Jeri Ryan, Scott Bakula and Amy Acker will be joined by WWE® Superstar Edge® and dozens of standout celebs and talented comic book artists and writers at the convention, which promises to be even bigger and better in 2012.

Bakula (“Star Trek: Enterprise,” “Quantum Leap”) and Acker (“Angel,” THE CABIN IN THE WOODS) will appear both days, while Wesley (“The Vampire Diaries,” “24”), Ryan (“Star Trek: Voyager,” “Boston Public”) and Edge® are scheduled to attend on Saturday only.

“Toronto and the entire region have embraced Wizard World Toronto Comic Con over the past two years, and we’re excited to bring a first-class event to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre,” said John Macaluso, Wizard World Board of Directors. “From well-known, relevant stars like Paul Wesley and Jeri Ryan and classic and cult actors and actresses to an outstanding collection of big-time artists and a unique array of exhibitors and vendors, there’s something for everyone.”

The event, produced by Wizard World, Inc., will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Wizard World shows always have top-notch comics creators on hand, and Toronto Comic Con boasts one of the most impressive rosters ever. Headlining the group are Mike Deodato Jr. (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Wonder Woman”), “Jock” (“Detective Comics,” “Batman”), John McCrea (“Hitman,” “Transmetropolitan”), Javi Fernandez (“Flashpoint: The Outsider,” “Captain America: First Vengeance”), Dale Keown (“Hulk,” “The Pitt”), Tyler Kirkham (“Green Lantern Corps,” “Blackest Night”), Marcus To (“The Huntress,” “The Authority”), Ken Lashley (“Batwing,” “Avengers”), David Mack (“Kabuki,” “Daredevil”), Greg Tocchini (“Batman and Robin,” “Hulk”), Michael Golden (“Batman,” “Spider-Man”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “X-Force”) and Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”).

Other popular celebrity guests scheduled for Toronto include Colin Ferguson (“Eureka,” THE OPPOSITE OF SEX), Sean Maher (“Serenity,” “Firefly”), Jeremy Bulloch (STAR WARS: EPISODE V, VI, III, “Doctors”), Sam Witwer (“Smallville,” THE MIST), Sam Huntington (SUPERMAN RETURNS, FANBOYS), Meaghan Rath (“Being Human,” LOST AND DELIRIOUS) and Catherine Mary Stewart (WEEKEND AT BERNIE’S, THE LAST STARFIGHTER).

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests. Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at scores of dealer booths.

Toronto Comic Con is scheduled as the second stop on Wizard World’s 2012 North American tour. Hours are Saturday, April 14, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, April 15, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/toronto.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($38 on site); two-day tickets are $40 ($55 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About MTCC
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (http://www.mtccc.com) is Canada’s #1 convention and trade show facility. It is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, within walking distance of almost 13,000 hotel rooms, shopping, restaurants and Toronto sites.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworldcomiccon.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012 DATES *****
April 14-15 – Toronto Comic Con
June 1-3 – Philadelphia Comic Con
August 9-12 – Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28 – Austin Comic Con
TBD 2013 – New Orleans Comic Con

Press Release: William Shatner, who has starred in popular television series and movies for more than five decades, will attend 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, it was announced today. Shatner, whose most well-known credits include lead roles in “Star Trek,” “T.J. Hooker” and “Boston Legal,” will appear on Saturday, January 28, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Instantly recognizable to several generations of cult TV fans as the square-jawed Capt. James T. Kirk, commander of the starship USS Enterprise, Shatner went on to star in several feature films in the “Star Trek” franchise’s revival in the 1980?s. He also won two Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of attorney Denny Crane in the television dramas “The Practice” and its spin-off “Boston Legal,” and currently hosts the edgy, off-beat Biography channel original talk show “Shatner’s Raw Nerve.”

“William Shatner is a television and movie icon to the highest degree,” said John Macaluso, Wizard World Board of Directors. “He has entertained millions of fans over the last half-century, and Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con attendees are ecstatic to have the chance to meet him in person.”

Shatner joins a list of standout guests that includes Adam Baldwin, Mary McDonnell, James Marsters, Michael Biehn, WWE® Diva Kelly Kelly™ and WWE® Superstar Zack Ryder™. The event, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK) will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

The roster of top artists at Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con is also impressive, including Carlos Pacheco (“X-Men,” “Green Lantern”), George Pérez (“Superman,” “JSA”), Jesus Merino (“Superman,” “Superman/Batman”), Félix Ruiz (“Halo: Fall Of Reach – Boot Camp,” “Marvel Zombies 5), Tyler Kirkham (“Green Lantern: New Guardians,” “Amazing Spider-Man”), Barry Kitson(“Uncanny X-Force,” “Spider-Man”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “X-Force”), Bernie Wrightson (“Batman,” “House of Mystery”), Norm Breyfogle (“Batman Beyond, “Life with Archie”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”) and dozens of others.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests. Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at scores of dealer booths.

New Orleans Comic Con is the first stop on Wizard World’s 2012 North American tour. Hours are Saturday, January 28, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, January 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/neworleans.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($30 on site); weekend all-session tickets are $40 ($45 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.
 

Press Release: Wizard World Austin Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring unique celebrity Q&A’s, music, film screenings and discussions, artist schools, contests and more for the event, set for Friday through Sunday, Nov. 11-13 at the Austin Convention Center. Sessions featuring Adam Baldwin, Hayden Panettiere and notables from such popular TV programs and films as STAR WARS, “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “The Walking Dead,” and WILLY WONKA & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY are among the highlight attractions.

Some of the top sessions include:

• Rare Q&A sessions with Adam Baldwin (FULL METAL JACKET, SERENITY) and Hayden Panettiere (“Heroes,” BRING IT ON)
• “Buffyfests” with “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer” stars James Marsters, Charisma Carpenter, Mercedes McNab, James Charles Leary and Juliet Landau
• STAR WARS Q&A with Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew and Daniel Logan
• Young stars Chandler Riggs and Anthony Guajardo of the hit AMC series “The Walking Dead”
• A WILLY WONKA panel featuring four of the five child stars of the original 1971 classic film
• “Stargate Universe” Q&A with the beautiful tandem of Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson
• “Kids’ Day” program with face painting, balloons, other fun activities specially designed for children, including a reading of “My Favorite Giant,” the latest children’s book by Peter Mayhew, best known as STAR WARS’ “Chewbacca”, and a “Fairy Godmother Academy” storytelling session by Jan Bozarth
• Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading creators like Michael Golden, Marv Wolfman, Kody Chamberlain, Rob Guillory, Jo Chen, Greg Capullo, Yanick Paquette and others
• Wizard World Austin Drink And Draw, hosted by artist Tommy Castillo, during which some will drink…some will draw…and the best will take on the challenge of doing both
• The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes

Unless noted, Austin Comic Con programming will take place in the designated panel rooms at the Austin Convention Center, and is included with admission to the event. Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.

The full schedule is at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/programming-tx.html and below:

Friday 11/11

5:00–5:45PM

Con Costuming with the 501st
The 501st costuming group shares their tips, skills and ideas on how to build and improve your comic con costumes. Whether you’re a Jedi, Rebel Pilot, Trooper or Princess, they will share their knowledge on how to make sure your costume is the best. (Room A)

6:00–6:45PM

The Art af Chew and Sweets with Kody Chamberlain and Rob Guillory
Rob Guillory (Chew) and Kody Chamberlain (Sweets) team up to discuss their breakout Image hits, and how they’ve transformed their love of art and storytelling to their Chew and Sweets brands. (Room A)

7:00 – 7:45PM

Steampunk 101
Take a look into the Steampunk armory with the Steam Engine Intrepid and The Airship Isabella groups, as they give you a tour of the exciting world of prop weapons! (Room A)

9:00–11:00PM

Wizard World Austin Drink and Draw – Hosted by Tommy Castillo
Some will drink…some will draw…and the best will take on the challenge of doing both! Don’t miss your chance to hang out with some of your favorite artists at the official Wizard World Drink and Draw, hosted by Tommy Castillo! (Location TBD)

Saturday 11/12

11:00-11:45AM

Star Wars Q&A with Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew and Daniel Logan
The stars behind Anakin Skywalker (Lloyd), Chewbacca (Mayhew) and Boba Fett (Logan) take fan questions and discuss their thoughts on the evolution of one of the highest grossing film franchises in history. (Room A)

Storytelling with Michael Golden
Whether you’re a writer, artist, or just a comic lover, come for this sit-down with one of the most renowned storytellers in the business as he shares a few tricks of the trade that will help you no matter what type of story you tell or enjoy, in whatever medium. It’s a rare opportunity to talk with the co-creator of X-Men Rogue, and groundbreaking penciler on such projects as Bucky O’Hare, The ’Nam, Micronauts, G.I. Joe, and much more! (Room B)

12:00-12:45PM

Walking Dead Q&A with Chandler Riggs and Anthony Guajardo
AMC’s ambitious horror series based on Robert Kirkman’s ultra-hot zombie series from Image, now comes to life! Join the cast members Chandler Riggs and Anthony Guajardo for a Q&A, followed by behind-the-scenes footage and extended clips. (Room A)

Wizard Spotlight: Marv Wolfman
As the legendary writer behind some of your favorite characters that have been adapted into TV shows, movies and animations, Marv Wolfman discusses some of his comic creations that have been adapted to the big and small screens in movies like Blade and Daredevil, or in shows such as “Teen Titans” and “Smallville.” (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM

Buffyfest Q&A with Charisma Carpenter, Mercedes McNab and James Charles Leary
The forces of good and evil reunite when the stars behind Cordelia Chase (Carpenter), Harmony (McNab) and Clem (Leary) sit down to discuss their days as the characters on the hit TV show “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” (Room A)

Breaking Into Comics with Jo Chen, Greg Capullo and Yanick Paquette
Fan favorites Jo Chen (Superman; Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Gregg Capullo (Batman; Thor ) and Yanick Paquette (Batman; Superman ) team up to give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to publishers, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics. (Room B)

2:00-2:45PM

Wonka Kids Reunion
The five child stars from the original Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory reunite 40 years after the release of the classic 1971 film. Panelists include Peter Ostrum (“Charlie Bucket”), Paris Themmen (“Mike Tee Vee”), Julie Dawn Cole (“Veruca Salt”), Denise Nickerson (“Violet Beauregard”). (Room A)

Are you Smarter than a Ghostubuster?
Do you have what it takes to be a Ghostbuster? Go head-to-head against the Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin Ghostbusters groups, and find out if you’re really smarter than a Ghostbuster. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM

Buffyfest Q&A with James Marsters and Juliet Landau
James Marsters and Juliet Landau reunite to discuss their days as the cold-blooded couple Spike and Drusilla on the hit shows “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Angel,” and dish about what went on behind-the-scenes of the pop-culture phenomenons. (Room A)

Wizard Writing School with Matthew Sturges and Nathan Edmondson
Join bestselling authors Matthew Sturges (Jack of All Fables; JSA All-Stars) and Nathan Edmondson (Who is Jake Ellis; PopGun) for this panel on writing and editing for comics. (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM

Adam Baldwin Q&A
With roles on sci-fi classics such as Serenity, “Firefly,” “The X-Files” and “Angel,” Adam Baldwin’s extensive résumé speaks for itself. Don’t miss his Wizard World Austin debut, where he will sit down to answer fan questions and share his favorite moments from the shows we’ve all come to love. (Room A)

Con Costuming With The Steampunks
Enter the world of Steampunk fashion. Let the seamstresses of the Airship Isabella and the great Steam Engine Intrepid show you the tricks and short cuts to achieve the look you want. From modifying clothing to creating your own, they will give you step-by-step instruction on everything costuming – including corset construction, bustling and distressing fabrics. (Room B)

5:00-5:45PM

Hayden Panettiere Q&A
Known for her role as Claire Bennett on the supernatural show “Heroes,” and from dozens of other film and TV credits, including Remember the Titans, Scream 4 and I Love You Beth Cooper! , Hayden Panettiere dishes about her rise from child star to one the Hollywood’s sweethearts. (Room A)

South by Southwest Programming
The hugely popular South By Southwest (SXSW) festivals preview some of the exciting programming at their 2012 shows (Room A)

6:00-6:45PM

The Making of ZELLWOOD: An Independent Horror Film
Don’t miss this special behind-the-scenes look at the independent horror film ZELLWOOD. A panel with the minds behind the film will follow, featuring Jason Sutton (writer/director/producer), Amber Norell (producer), Julie Anne Prescott (actress), Bruster Sampson (actor) and Kristin Diaz (hair/makeup), as they discuss the making of the low budget film that was shot in only 12 days!

Note: Trailer includes violence, recommended for mature audiences. (Room A)

7:00-9:00PM

Adult Costume Contest
Get your best costume together and come on down to Wizard World’s Austin Comic Con costume contest for fun prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend. (Room A)

Sunday 11/13

11:00-11:30AM

Crashbat: A Reading By Brimstone
Kids (ages 5-9) will enjoy a reading of the new Border-Pups book CrashBat. The story will be read by comic book creator William “Brimstone” Kucmierowski. Brim will follow the reading of the book with a game of “Brim Says,” and three lucky winners will get a free, signed copy of the book! . (Room A)

The Ladies Of Wrestling
Maria, Melina and Candice Michelle answer your questions about what it takes to hit the mat become a dashing Diva in the world of professional wrestling. (Room B)

11:30AM-12:00PM

Draw Your Own Comic Characters with Andy and Veronica Fish
Kids (ages 11-17) get into the action and learn how to “Draw a Comic Character” at this one-of-a kind workshop with graphic novel artists and writing team Andy & Veronica Fish. (Room A)

12:00-12:45PM

How To Draw Mickey Mouse
Powerhouse Animation Studios hosts this special instructional panel for kids aged 6-14, to teach you how to draw America’s favorite Disney character – Mickey Mouse! (Room A)

Stargate Universe Q&A with Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson
Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson take to the stage to spill on their days as the leading ladies Tamara Johansen and Vanessa James from the wildly popular sci-fi series “Stargate Universe.” (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM

Breaking Into Comics with Patrick Gleason, Kevin Maguire and Freddie Williams
Patrick Gleason (Batman & Robin; Green Lantern Corps), Kevin Maguire (Justice League; Batman Confidential) and Freddie Williams (JSA All-Stars; Batman) give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to publishers, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics. (Room B)

1:00-2:00PM

Kid’s Costume Contest
Bring kids 10 and under for this special event with fun prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room A)

2:00-2:45PM

My Little Giant Reading with Peter Mayhew
Peter Mayhew- the 7’3? actor that brought Chewbacca to life- now brings you his latest children’s book My Favorite Giant, intended to help little ones understand that being different doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Join Peter and his wife/co-author Mary Mayhew, for their special reading and book signing. (Room A)

Doctor Who: From Totter’s Lane to Demon’s Run – Adventures In Time, In Space
Doctor Who is the longest running science fiction series in the world. Travel by TARDIS and explore this phenomenon with fans of both the classic and new series. It’s a panel about everything Doctor Who! (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM

The Fairy Godmother Academy
Jan Bozarth is the author of the popular Fairy Godmother Academy series published by Random House. Join Jan as she weaves tales of the enchanting and magical world of Aventurine using gorgeous props and costumes inspired by the books. (Room A)

Austin Comic Con is the ninth and final stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour. Hours are Friday, November 11, 4 – 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 12, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, November 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/austin.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); weekend all-session tickets are $45 ($55 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworldcomiccon.com.

Press Release: Coming off extremely successful events in its first two annual Toronto shows, Wizard World Inc. today announced a venue change for the 2012 Wizard World Toronto Comic Con, part of North America’s largest pop-culture tour. The event will be held April 14-15, 2012, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) in downtown Toronto.

Among the guests that have already committed to the event are actor Paul McGillion (“Stargate: Atlantis,” “Star Trek”), Eisner Award Hall of Fame writer Marv Wolfman(“DCU Online,” “Crisis on Infinite Earths”), and artists Mike Deodato Jr. (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Wonder Woman”), John McCrea (“Hitman,” “Transmetropolitan”) and Barry Kitson (“Uncanny X-Force,” “FF”). Additional celebrities and creators will be announced at a later date.

“Wizard World Toronto Comic Con has grown tremendously in its first two years, making this move to the Metro Toronto Convention Center a natural,” said John Macaluso, Wizard World Board of Directors. “The support from Toronto and across Canada for this event has continued to increase, and this will allow us to accommodate even more fans, vendors, celebrities, artists and sponsors next April in a state-of-the-art venue in a great downtown location.”

Toronto Comic Con is scheduled as the second stop on Wizard World’s 2012 North American tour. Hours are Saturday, April 14, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, April 15, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/toronto.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($38 on site); two-day tickets are $40 ($55 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About MTCC:
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (http://www.mtccc.com) is Canada’s #1 convention and trade show facility. It is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, within walking distance of almost 13,000 hotel rooms, shopping, restaurants and Toronto sites.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.
 

Press Release: A variety of fan clubs, podcasters and other groups are making final preparations for this weekend’s Wizard World Mid-Ohio Comic Con, Saturday and Sunday at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. From cosplayers like the Great Lakes Base of the Rebel Legion and Ohio 501st Legion and Mandalorian Mercs to the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund and Comic Book Connection Initiative, groups will be on site, meeting attendees and enriching the Wizard World experience.

Some groups that fans will run into on site include:

• Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, which exists to fight censorship and defend the first amendment rights of comic book professionals and readers throughout the United States.

• Great Lakes Base of the Rebel Legion, the local chapter of The Rebel Legion Star Wars costuming group.

• Mandalorian Mercs Costuming Group, the world’s premier custom Mandalorian costume organization.

• Ohio 501st Legion, the state’s chapter of the national organization which seeks to promote interest in Star Wars through the building and wearing of quality costumes, and to facilitate the use of these costumes for Star Wars-related events as well as contributions to the local community through costumed charity and volunteer work.

• Ohio Star Wars Collectors Club, a resource through which those who live in Ohio can discuss new items arriving, toy & collectible show dates and generally anything Star Wars related.

• Open Forum Radio, a community fueled by collective interests which seeks open dialogue and to encourage debate.

• Outlook Media, whose content contains both local and national focused features that compliment its mix of columns, editorials, arts & entertainment, sports, celebrity interviews, and community news.

•  Pendant Production Company, one of the most prolific and popular podcasting companies today, with more than 800 episodes of audio drama.

• The Comic Book Connection Initiative, a small non-profit organization that takes in donated comic books from dealers, publishers, and individual collectors then distributes them to children in homeless shelters, food pantries, after-school programs , YWCA women’s shelter and hospitals.

• The Hero Initiative, the first-ever federally chartered not-for-profit corporation dedicated strictly to helping comic book creators in need. Hero creates a financial safety net for yesterdays’ creators who may need emergency medical aid, financial support for essentials of life, and an avenue back into paying work.

• USS Asgard, a chapter of Starfleet International, which participates in community events such as Toys for Tots, Operation Feed, etc.

• USS Columbus, which does an annual school supply drive for a local school, helps in the Firefighters Toy Drive, and collects food for Mid Ohio Food Bank along with other local clubs.

• USS Lagrange, which has raised hundreds of dollars for the Akron Children’s Hospital and for various food banks in the state.

• WGTR “World Grand Theft Radio,” the nationwide internet radio station No. 1 worldwide Halloween radio station in Sept & Oct. With over 30 original shows a week live, “our mission to make your on air dreams come true!”

Wizard World Mid-Ohio Comic Con features stars James Marsters, Billy Dee Williams, Adam West, Burt Ward, Claudia Christian and Walter Koenig among dozens of celebrities and industry professionals celebrating the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Mid-Ohio Comic Con is the eighth stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour. Hours are Saturday, October 22, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, October 23, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworld.com/midohio.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); weekend all-session tickets are $40 ($50 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Press Release: Five popular celebrity guests have been added to the stellar Wizard World Austin Comic Con lineup as Diora Baird, Julia Benson, Michael Biehn, Alaina Huffman and Kevin Sorbo have committed to the event, set for the Austin Convention Center, November 11-13. The five join standouts Hayden Panettiere, Adam Baldwin, ACADEMY AWARD WINNER Louis Gossett Jr., James Marsters, Juliet Landau, Charisma Carpenter and others at the next stop on North America’s largest pop-culture tour.

Baird (THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE: THE BEGINNING, ACCEPTED), Benson (“SGU Stargate Universe,” ROAD TO VICTORY), Biehn (TERMINATOR, THE ABYSS), Huffman (“Smallville,” “SGU Stargate Universe) and Sorbo (ANDROMEDA, “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys”) further bolster the event’s robust celebrity roster.

Wizard World Austin Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

The lineup of superstar artists at Wizard World Austin Comic Con is also impressive, including Jo Chen (“Superman,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”), Matthew Sturges (“Jack of Fables,” “JSA All-Stars”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “X-Force”), Mark Texeira (“Wolverine,” “Spider-Man”), Michael Golden (“Batman,” “Spider-Man”), Stéphane Roux (“Zatanna,” “Star Wars”), Marv Wolfman “DCU Online,” “Crisis on Infinite Earths”), Bill Sienkiewicz (“Elektra: Assassin,” “Moon Knight”) and dozens of others.

Press Release: North America’s largest pop-culture tour continues as Wizard World Austin Comic Con returns to the Austin Convention Center, November 11-13, with standout guests Hayden Panettiere, Adam Baldwin, ACADEMY AWARD WINNER Louis Gossett Jr., James Marsters, Juliet Landau and Charisma Carpenter headlining the list of celebrity attendees. The event, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK) will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Panettiere (“Heroes,” BRING IT ON) will appear on Saturday only, Baldwin (FULL METAL JACKET, “Serenity”) is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, and Gossett (AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, ENEMY MINE), Marsters (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “Caprica”), Landau (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “Angel”) and Carpenter (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “Veronica Mars”) will attend all three days.

Press Release: A total of 12 Will Eisner Comics Industry Awards winners and nominees are among the more than 150 comic creators scheduled to attend Wizard World Mid-Ohio Comic Con, part of North America’s largest pop-culture tour, October 22-23 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Winners include 10-time honoree Jeff Smith (“Bone,” “RASL”), Bill Sienkiewicz (“Elektra,” “Assassin”), Christopher Sprouse (“Tom Strong,” “The Return of Bruce Wayne”) and Eric Wight (“The Escapist,” “Action Comics”).

The eight Eisner nominees scheduled to attend are Eliza Frye (“The Lady’s Murder,” “Lucky House”), Steve Hamaker (“Bone,” “RASL”), David Mack (“Kabuki,” “Daredevil”), Ed Piskor (“Wizzywig,” “American Splendor”), Thomas Scioli (“Godland,” “American Barbarian”), Marc Sumerak (“Power Pack,” “Franklin Richards”), Carol Tyler (“You’ll Never Know: Book I & II,” “Late Bloomer”) and Dave Wachter (“The Guns of Shadow Valley,” “Scar Tissue”).
The creators will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and sketch. Many Greater Columbus-based artists will be in attendance as well.

The Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards are considered the “Oscars” of the comic book industry. Established in 1987, they are named for renowned cartoonist Will Eisner (creator of “The Spirit” and several award-winning graphic novels).

Other superstar creators scheduled to attend include Pasqual Ferry (“Thor; Ultimate Fantastic Four,” “Ultimate X-Men vs Fantastic Four”), Gerald Parel (“S.H.I.E.L.D.,” “Captain America), Stephanie Hans (“Journey into Mystery,” “The Amazing Spider-Man”), Mike Grell (“Green Arrow,” “Green Lantern”), Rob Liefeld (“Deadpool,” “Youngblood”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “Hero For Hire”), Phil Jimenez (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Astonishing X-Men”), Michael Golden (“Batman,” “Spider-Man”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”), Mark Texeira (“Wolverine,” “Spider-Man”) and Ryan Ottley (“Invincible,” “The Walking Dead”).

Mid-Ohio Comic Con is the eighth stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour. Hours are Saturday, October 22, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, October 23, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets are available in advance online at the website at a savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); weekend all-session tickets are $40 ($50 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult). VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide. 

Press Reease: WonderCon, part of Comic-Con International’s (CCI) family of conventions, today announced that the 2012 show will be held March 16-18, and Anaheim, California, will play host to the long-running comics and popular arts convention. San Francisco’s Moscone Center, WonderCon’s traditional venue, will undergo renovations in early 2012, leaving the 25-year-old show in the unenviable position of either being canceled or finding a new venue.

In a move to help alleviate an overcrowded calendar, ReedPop’s C2E2, which has been waiting to announce dates for its own show in March 2012, will now seek alternative dates while Wizard World has announced that it will postpone its April 2012 Anaheim show.

“It certainly was not our wish to move,” commented David Glanzer, director of marketing and public relations for the nonprofit event. “However, when faced with the prospect of canceling the show for a year or moving locations, after careful consideration we decided to keep WonderCon on the 2012 calendar at a venue that could accommodate our needs.”

Press Release: North America’s largest pop-culture tour continues at Wizard World Mid-Ohio Comic Con at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, October 22-23, with standout guests James Marsters, Billy Dee Williams, Adam West, Burt Ward, Claudia Christian andWalter Koenig headlining the list of celebrity attendees. The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Williams (STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, BRIAN’S SONG) will appear on Saturday, while Marsters (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Caprica”), West (“Batman,” “Family Guy”), Ward (“Batman”), Christian (“Look,” “Babylon 5”) and Koenig (“Star Trek,” “Babylon 5”) are scheduled for both days.