5 Reasons Against Digital Comics...

I found an interesting article on BigBlackGeek offering 5 reasons to go digital with comics. It’s a good read and each reason is a valid one…I just respectfully disagree.

So, here are 5 reasons NOT to go digital with comics:

5) Lack of access. Our house has only one computer, and no cable television. Between watching stuff on Hulu and Netflix, and our daughter needing the internet for schoolwork, I have very little time to “read” comics on the computer. My longboxes and bookshelves are always there waiting for me, no matter what Korean soap opera the ladies of the house want to watch at any given time.

4) Re-sale-ability. A secondary market was created as people sold and bought back issues of comics to a) make money and b) fill gaps in their collections. Sotheby’s, ebay and other auctioneers have lots of comic collections (literally) to sell off. Is anyone ever going to buy a digital copy of Action Comics #1 for over a million dollars?

3) They’re easy to lose. I have seven zip drives to my name, and I’m constantly misplacing them. Are they in my pocket or on the table? When I put down a comic or trade…and yes I’ve misplaced them as well…all I have to do is look around for a big rectangle with drawings and words on them. Plus, there is absolutely no chance of my dropping a comic into the toilet before I have a chance to close the lid.

2) Appreciation of the medium. What I mean by this is that comics are created by writers and artists...who write and draw on paper. The sensations to be had by reading something you physically hold in your hands can't be replaced. It’s one thing to have a photograph of the Mona Lisa; it’s another to have it hanging on your wall. I mean whose life would be better if they stopped having sex altogether and only watched porn?

1) Electricity. All digital downloadable content – comics, music or whatever – rely on it. If my power goes out due to a storm, I can still read my comics without worrying about battery life.

Puck Part 33: Alpha Flight #37 (August, 1986)

Puck and the others arrive at the Place of Power to witness the birth of Snowbird’s baby…to everyone’s regret.

I have this issue.

Judd pilots another Omniship north of the Arctic Circle, as the team heads to the Place of Power Shaman needs to deliver Snowbird’s baby. Judd stays behind on the ship, so he misses Talisman’s treachery. It isn’t until Vindicator’s attacked that he decides to join the battle…only to fall through the ice.

Notes of Interest:

1) No real character development here, but we do learn that Judd doesn’t like peanuts.

WTF? Moment: Another small thing, but Judd doesn’t have a cold weather variation of his costume, and that stinks. On the cover, he’s wearing a full body suit, which makes sense because his regular outfit leaves his arms bare. In the comic itself, however, he has naked elbows. My thought is that there was a plan to introduce the “thermal” outfit but it fell through. Or maybe it’s still stored somewhere on the Omniship?

WTF? Moment #2: What’s the deal about Heather’s quip about keeping Judd’s eyes on the monitors? After all the months of his pining after her, he finally moves on enough to admire Aurora’s outfit and Heather calls him on it. Could she be jealous?

WTF? Moment #3: Falling through the ice? Really? Others face maggots, rust, muck and flies! What form of death and decay is shown by broken ice? Maybe Mantlo just hasn’t given Judd enough thought. I bet Byrne would have remembered his thermals…

Puck Part 32: Alpha Flight #36 (July, 1986)

Puck finds himself amidst a family matter when he learns Snowbird is pregnant.

I have this issue.

Judd is woken up in the middle of the night and helps keep Doug Thompson from attacking Shaman, who let Snowbird go so she could feed. Shaman reveals that Snowbird is pregnant, and when she returns she looks almost eight months along. The shock causes Doug to need some time to process the news. Judd follows him, and attempts to comfort Doug by telling him about Snowbird’s origin, explaining the reasoning behind her birth, the connection between her and Shaman, and her later joining Alpha Flight. Unfortunately, it doesn’t help. Doug then threatens the team while trying to take her to a proper hospital and Judd is there as Shaman and the others convince Doug to let them take her to a newly found place of power where their baby can be born.

Notes of Interest:

1) It seems that Judd wants things to work out between Doug and Snowbird.

2) It also looks like Judd’s been hitting the Alpha files, since he wasn’t around when Shaman delivered Snowbird.

WTF? Moment: This is a small thing, but wasn’t the Omniship last seen destroyed over the woods of upstate New York? I know Jefferies rebuilt it, but couldn’t Mantlo have had someone say that Jefferies rebuilt it?

WTF? Moment #2: Mantlo also seems to have altered Judd’s abilities a bit, giving him super speed as well. When Judd is on the dock at the end of the story, he’s shirtless. But when it is decided that they’re going to the place of power, he’s got his costume on. Aurora could have voluntarily flown up, grabbed his outfit and brought it down to him. But how’s he get it on so fast without anyone saying anything?

5 Things I Am Thankful For This Year...

1) My wife - who has put up with my dorkiness for twenty-two years.

2) My daughter - who accepts the dorkiness within her dad...and herself.

3) Marvel Studios - for existing, as well as creating a Marvel Movie Universe that I want to live in.

4) Warner Brothers - for setting the bar with Superman The Motion Picture, and raising it with Batman Begins so that Marvel Studios could clear it.

and finally,

5) Coast City Comics - for hosting a three-day convention in Downtown Portland this year, and for planning to do it again next year.

Happy (belated) Thanksgiving to all!!!

Puck Part 31: Alpha Flight #35 (June, 1986)

Puck and Vindicator return to Tamarind Island to find Snowbird ill and in desperate need of Shaman’s help.

I have this issue.

Vindicator is carrying Judd as they fly back to Canada from New York (since the Omniship was destroyed in Alpha Flight #34). During the voyage home, Judd confesses that he’s not thrilled with her becoming a super hero. He also apologizes for letting his feelings for her get in the way. When they arrive, they find Snowbird’s husband, Doug Thompson, waiting outside the infirmary. Snowbird lies within, strapped to a table and screaming in pain. Heather starts trying to comfort her when the goddess starts to shapeshift. Judd knocks Heather out of harm’s way as Aurora sedates their patient. The sedative doesn’t last long, and Judd witnesses more of Snowbird’s pain-induced transmutations when Shaman arrives, looking completely different.

Notes of Interest:

1) Heather doesn’t react one way or the other about Judd’s confession and the lack of response is duly noted.

2) Judd learns that Snowbird and her longtime partner Doug Thompson were recently married.

WTF? Moment: Judd finally tells her how he feels, and Heather doesn’t say anything? I call B.S. on that. He’s been there for her ever since her husband died. She knows it. Why can’t she talk to him? I’m not saying she should have feelings for him, but she should have at least told him how she feels about getting involved with anyone. I’m not a big fan of angst, but I understand it has its place in storytelling. Enough is enough! Get Judd a girlfriend already and let’s all move on.

WTF? Moment #2: I’m surprised at Judd’s response to Snowbird’s marriage. It’s probably just shock after being given the silent treatment. Judd’s the type of guy who wishes nothing but the best for his friends. But on a side note - if Heather decided to start anything with Logan, all bets are off.

Puck Part 30: Alpha Flight #34 (May, 1986)

Puck heads after Heather, who went to the one other person she can trust to help her…Wolverine.

I have this issue.

Judd ran off last issue to suit up and take the team’s only Omniship to chase after Heather. He follows the signature impulses of her battlesuit to upstate New York, not far from Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters. He arrives in time to see two combatants in an open field, and the Omniship registers one of them as using electromagnetic energy. Puck assumes it’s Heather, but it is actually Lady Deathstrike, whose blade also emits electromagnetic impulses. The person she’s facing is Logan, whom Judd recognizes too late to change course, and the Omniship clocks Logan on the back of the head. Lady Deathstrike uses her blade to shred the belly of Judd’s transport, forcing him to eject.

Judd arrives at the battlefield just as Lady Deathstrike faces off against Heather. Yuriko strikes, but the Guardian suit’s electromagnetic field proves stronger, and the blade shatters. Proving herself in battle, Heather asks both men if they still want to offer her their protection. Judd doesn’t answer.

Notes of Interest:

1) This is the first time Judd hears Heather call herself Vindicator.

2) Judd shows off his piloting skills again by flying the Omniship alone.

WTF? Moment: The ejection thing bothers me. Judd is shown essentially jumping out of the ship with no ejection seat, no protection of any kind…and no parachute. Did he just cartwheel himself safely to the ground? Maybe he bounced from tree to tree to break his fall?

WTF? Moment #2: Don’t tell me Logan isn’t just a little bit peeved for being taken out in such a stupid way. I’m sure he’ll get Judd back at some point, which leads me to…

WTF? Moment #3: …how could a computer that managed to track a specific electromagnetic signature across Canada into the United States suddenly get “confused” and misread a different electromagnetic signature? Maybe the point was that the two would be very similar since there’s a relationship between their creators. Maybe Judd simply read the readings wrong. In any case, if Judd couldn’t tell that Heather’s bright red-and-white costume was nowhere in sight on the battlefield as he approached, he deserves whatever he gets from Logan. ‘Nuff said.

Puck Part 29: Alpha Flight #33 (April, 1986)

Puck’s affections are made known to everyone currently in Alpha Flight…except Heather.

I have this issue.

Judd spends this issue stressing over not agreeing to train Heather because of his feelings for her. Aurora offers sympathy, Northstar offers sarcasm, Box offers hope, and Jefferies offers…?

Judd knows where Heather is headed before Box can locate her and storms off, preparing to offer her his apology and affection.

Notes of Interest:

1) Not much character development here, aside from his feelings for Heather being known to the others.

WTF? Moment: Jefferies calls Judd a hypocrite because he warned her about the dangers of power while secretly keeping “Razer” (or Razor, or Black Razaar, or whatever) inside himself. My question is: where did this anger come from? Jefferies has known Judd since the days of Beta and Gamma Flights but they never seemed to be more than acquaintances, so why would Jefferies care that Judd kept a secret?

Wouldn’t it have made more sense if Northstar said that?

Puck Part 28: Alpha Flight #32 (March, 1986)

We learn a lot about Puck this issue, including the secret behind his pain.

I have this issue.

Judd is about to test out the newly constructed Danger Room at Alpha Headquarters when he gets a surprise in the form of Heather entering the room wearing a new version of her late husband’s Guardian uniform. He was expecting to show her some basic fighting techniques, not teaching “Super-Heroing 101”, and argues that it is too dangerous for her. She disagrees, and has Bochs and Jefferies start the training exercise.

All goes well until Heather gets her glasses knocked off, rendering her essentially blind. Judd leaps to her aid, but is cut down when the pain hits him again. Heather figures out how to stop the exercise herself, and Judd calls her a fool for wanting to get into super-heroing at all. She leaves, intent on seeking another person she’s confident will train her, and Judd is upset over his hurt feelings.

Judd broke his promise to James Hudson when he killed Ernest in Alpha Flight #31, and that act has bothered him, which has affected his ability to focus past the pain. The desire he felt from Nemesis’ blade made things worse, and in his weakened state, Judd collapses. This causes the source of his pain, an ancient sorcerer named Razor, to be released from Judd’s body.

Aurora and Northstar are the first to encounter the Arabian spirit, followed by Box. Jefferies stumbles upon Judd’s body – now six foot six inches tall and seventy-one years old – as he regains consciousness.

Judd explains that he was born in 1914, and spent his youth as a soldier of fortune when certain dealers told him about the Black Blade of Bagdad in 1939. Upon finding it, Judd decided he was going to keep it instead of selling it to dealers. In that moment of selfishness, Razor was released. The Blade was created by mystics as a source of light in order to trap Razor, a fellow mystic who corrupted men’s souls and made them smaller. They succeeded in confining Razor within the blade, and over the millennia, Razor’s presence turned the Blade black. Having no intention of being confined again, Razor fought Judd. While no mystic, Judd recalled some of the things he had learned from his travels and realized that the Blade turned black because it couldn’t control Razor’s influence, whereas a living vessel could. Judd sacrificed his own soul to contain the dark mystic. Judd gained an extended lifespan, but it cost him his height and resulted in his being in constant pain.

Back in the present, Judd witnesses Aurora’s battle against Razor and notices that he reacts to her ability to generate light. Northstar creates a whirlwind to contain Razor while Aurora’s light weakens him and Judd then sacrifices himself and contains Razor within him once more, reducing him in size and causing him constant pain.

Notes of Interest:

1) Bochs is aware of Judd’s feelings towards Heather.

2) When Judd returns to his full height, his right ear is still disfigured.

3) This is the first we learn anything of Judd’s past prior to joining Beta Flight.

4) While we never see Judd killing anyone, it is implied here that he’s done it quite a few times before confronting Razor.

WTF? Moment: This issue is significant in that it features Judd’s origin, but not the one Byrne intended. Byrne merely wanted Judd to be an acrobatic dwarf who could fight but had no superhuman powers, and his pain was simply caused by his condition – achondroplasia. The whole “Arabian Genie in Judd’s body” thing was Bill Mantlo’s idea. I’m not exactly sure how I feel about this. Mantlo’s story explains Judd’s age, how he could have known Hemmingway as well as his worldly travels. But Byrne’s plan to just have Judd deal with the regular problems real people with this disease suffer has a certain appeal. The main thing is that what Mantlo did had no affect on Judd’s character or personality traits. It does support Byrne’s plan that Judd was in trouble with the law prior to joining Beta Flight, as well as the fact that Judd has killed people in the past. This also explains in an indirect way how Judd could have that continual crossing of professional paths with Logan. My one concern has to do with Judd’s height. Apparently, Razor’s blade has the ability to reduce the height of anyone it passes through. So it makes sense that when Judd uses the blade on himself to contain Razor, it causes him to shrink in size. However…

WTF? Moment #2: …Judd’s costume isn’t affected by the sudden height change. Unless it’s made of those famous unstable molecules, it would have either (most likely) torn significantly when Judd grew, or (least likely) sagged off his body when he got short again.

WTF? Moment #3: Despite what the cover leads us to believe, Heather leaves the mansion before Razor appears, missing the battle...and Judd’s story...completely.

WTF? Moment #4: Judd makes a passing comment to Bochs about a cripple helping a cripple. That was cold, even for Judd, but I’ll chalk it up to being in both emotional and physical pain at that moment.

WTF? Moment #5: Yes…I know that on Comic Vine the character is listed as Black Raazar, but in the comic itself, he’s called both Razor and Razer. I’ll go into that when I deal with the character sometime down the road.

Sunday, 10/17/2010 (New England Wizard Comic Con, Day 3)

So I returned to the convention early Sunday morning. My plan was to work a few hours, and then spend what time (and money) I had left before catching my bus home. I donned my yellow Volunteer shirt and entered the event when lo and behold the Vendor needed my help to set up once again…which I did, because I got to look at a lot of original art.

As I was helping, I looked over at Bill Sienkiewicz’s empty booth next door and realized that he was missing all day Saturday. I asked another of the Vendor’s employees if he knew where Bill was:

“Oh, he was stuck at Logan all day.”

Logan is an international airport located just outside Boston. My first concern was that with the President stopping by, there may have been an “incident” that required all flights to either be cancelled or delayed.

That would suck…

“Nah, they lost his luggage.”

That really sucks…

“And his portfolios.”

That REALLY sucks!

Can you imagine the frustration any artist would have if their work went missing due to airline error? The fact that it was Bill…freaking… Sienkiewicz’s work – worth quite a bit of money to be sure – was horrific.

Bill never made it to the con, and I have no idea if his property was ever found. My hope is that all was recovered, and Bill does attend future events, even if he never sets foot in Boston again.

As for me, when my work setting up was done the vendor gave me another $10, and asked once again if I could help him box things up at closing. I told him I had to work Monday morning

“Oh, where do you work?”

I told him I worked at a store for a major retailer.

“Are you a part-timer there?”

“No,” I replied. “I’m an assistant manager.”

The Vendor gave me a look of surprise/shock. The employee I spoke with earlier laughed. I smiled politely, and walked away.

Unlike Saturday, which truly felt like a Comic Convention, Sunday felt more like a Buffyverse convention. Less superhero, more vampire.

I asked my Volunteer Handler if anyone needed help, and he sent me over to cover a break at Security…

In my mind, Security meant armed guards protecting valuables from Bad People. In this case, Security meant standing in front of the door to the lounge where Guests (stars appearing for photos and autographs) took their breaks.

I was told to stay there, NOT TO ENTER THE ROOM, and make sure no one else did either.

Sounds easy enough, right?

So as I stood there, I heard a group of people talking in the room. I didn’t recognize any voices, but it sounded like a bunch of college friends talking over coffee. There’s some movement, and five people came out – four women and a man. They’re halfway to the Buffy booth when I realize that the guy was Xander, otherwise known as Nicholas Brendon. No idea who the ladies were, but they must have been other Buffy actors.

I did mention I liked the movie more than the series, right?

I then spotted two men coming toward me. At first, I wondered what to say to keep them out, but then I recognized the shorter man…James Marsters. I said hello and let him and – I guess his agent – through. A minute later, the Agent came up to me and asked if I could unlock the door to the adjoining room so James could get something he needed. I broke my first rule…staying by the door…to break my second rule…entering the room…to try the door. It’s locked of course, and I told the Agent that I’d have to get someone else with a key because I can’t leave my post. Marsters smiled kindly and said “Cheers” in something of a English accent, which is funny because I didn’t think he was British…

I returned to the doorway and scanned the convention looking for another Volunteer shirt, which I now realized was bright yellow for a reason.

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF THE VOLUNTEER SHIRT!!!

I found one, waved him over to me, and managed to get the message of my situation out. The cavalry arrived, the door was unlocked and Marsters got what he needed.

I was relieved of my Security duties and made my way to sign out for the day, and as I walked past Greg Horn’s table, he called me over and thanked me for watching his table Saturday. (I guess he finished counting his money and realized I didn’t rob him.) As a Thank You, he offered me a free signed print of my choosing.

I accepted, of course. I also offered to pay for a sleeve, but he had sold out. My solution? I went to a nearby booth and bought a cheap movie poster that came in a sleeve the same size as Horn’s print.

I signed out, completing my 10+ hours of duty, and bummed around the con for as long as I could until it was time to leave for the bus terminal.

I caught up with the Volunteer Handler who gave out swag to all volunteers as payment. Among other things, I got a Transmetropolitan Trade – my first – a novel by Colin Harvey and some Heroclix pieces.

Would I volunteer again? Maybe, maybe not. It was fun to get in early and see the “behind the scenes” stuff. I learned that Ethan Van Sciver played guitar…pretty well I might add. I also learned the importance of following fire safety laws. There was a presidential visit, and I spoke to several creators I never heard of before and buying some of their work…like Dirk Tiede’s Paradigm Shift (which is awesome by the way).

All in all, it was a great event, and something I was glad to be a part of.

Puck Part 27: Secret Wars II #9 (March, 1986)

Puck is one of the many heroes that stop the Beyonder from erasing the universe.

I have this issue.

Judd is transported along with the rest of Alpha Flight, The Avengers, The X-Men, The West Coast Avengers, The Fantastic Four and others to the Colorado Rockies by Phoenix, who plans to attack the Beyonder in order to stop him from erasing the universe. They arrive above his underground lair, and during the invasion Judd is among those attacked by Magma of the New Mutants. He survives, and is present when Molecule Man destroys the Beyonder’s machine, which almost causes annihilation. They are saved by Molecule Man, but Judd and the other heroes are stunned when they discover that the Beyonder, now in infant form, is killed as a result.

Notes of Interest:

1) This is Judd’s first run in with Magma and the other New Mutants.

2) To my knowledge, this is also the first time Judd has met any Marvel heroes outside of The X-Men, Spider-Man, Namor and Hulk.

WTF? Moment: Where to begin? I know this was one of Marvel’s first big crossovers, and it brought about their New Universe line of titles including Star Brand, D. P. 7. and Justice, but this issue is a mess. I’m glad Judd was involved, but he was just sort of thrown in there like so many others. He’s easy to spot though, he’s the little dark square with the tiny head, stubby arms and bright orange ‘P’.

WTF? Moment #2: While we don’t actually see Judd’s reaction to The Beyonder’s death, I’m assuming it’s the same as the others, when they all kind of quietly disperse as if in shock…like they were expecting a baby to survive the destruction of the machine surrounding it.

Puck Part 26: Alpha Flight #31 (February, 1986)

Puck revisits his killing days and pays the price.

I have this issue.

The story starts out right after Alpha Flight #30, with Judd and the others saying goodbye to Lionel Jefferies, when it is revealed that one of the bodies in the hospital morgue is missing. The dead body belongs to Deadly Ernest, who has risen from the grave, thanks to Scramble. Judd listens as Aurora retells the events of her and her brother’s dealings with Ernest in the past, and then he encounters both Ernest and Nemesis. During the battle, Ernest kidnaps Heather. Judd goes after her, and is given Nemesis’ blade, which is sharp enough to kill the villain. Judd follows them into a subway tunnel and is forced to dissect Ernest despite feeling a strong sense of bloodlust from the blade. Ernest keeps coming, and Judd saves Heather from an oncoming train, and lets it hit Ernest. He then finishes the job, and returns the blade to Nemesis and watches her dissolve.

Notes of Interest:

1) Judd shows his feelings towards Heather yet again when he suggests that she stay at the hospital while they investigate Ernest’s whereabouts.

2) We are reminded here that Judd was paroled into Beta Flight after promising James Hudson that his killing days were over.

3) Apparently, Judd ran with the bulls in Pamplona.

4) It is revealed here that Judd’s pain can come at any time. It’s also hinted that the pain is contained within him.

5) This is the first time Judd meets both Deadly Ernest and Nemesis.

6) Nemesis’ blade reacts to killing and has an affect on Judd, causing his pain to increase, and tempting him to release…something.

7) The bloodlust of the blade reminds Judd of another black blade he once held.

8) Judd fights the urge to kill…until he sees Heather in danger of getting hit by the train.

WTF? Moment: Judd suggests that Alpha recommend to the Department of National Health to readmit Lionel to practice medicine? This is a guy who just turned everyone he touched into a misshapen monster, including Heather. Maybe Judd’s very forgiving, having himself been reformed. Maybe he’s a little jaded after Heather’s repeated lack of response to his affections. Maybe he has short term memory loss. Whatever the reason, I would wait a bit before recommending Lionel for anything involving medicine.

WTF? Moment #2: Judd seems to know his way around a sword. Maybe he learned during his bullfighting days?

Puck Part 25: Alpha Flight #30 (January, 1986)

Puck gets acquainted to his new digs and faces a new enemy.

I have this issue.

Judd helps his fellow Alphans move into their new headquarters – Walter Langkowski’s Great-Aunt’s mansion on Tamarind Island. After settling in, Judd wakes in the middle of the night to find Heather’s taken the Omniship. The team follows her to Montreal General Hospital, where they find everyone turned into misshapen monsters. Judd learns that Madison’s brother Lionel has the ability to reshape biological matter, and was locked up at the hospital in a padded cell. They find Heather in the open cell…deformed like the others. Judd chooses to stay with her, while Box, Jefferies, Aurora and Northstar go after Lionel, now calling himself Scramble. Scramble is found, defeated and apparently cured, and returns everyone back to normal, including Heather.

Notes of Interest:

1) Judd’s not altogether trusting of the new arrangement Alpha has with the Canadian Government, and he doesn’t trust Gary either.

2) It’s hinted here that Judd has endured so much pain from his dwarfism that at some point his sanity was at risk.

WTF? Moment: The fact that Judd stays with Heather speaks volumes. He drops everything else and holds her, telling her she’s still beautiful and that she’ll be alright. What makes it a WTF? Moment is…

WTF? Moment #2: …Heather doesn’t mention it at all later on. She recoils when Lionel touches her face, which is to be expected, but no “Thank You” or “I appreciate you staying with me” or anything? I call bulls#!+ on that. Judd even tells her it wasn’t her fault Scramble got free because eventually someone would have become a victim. I’m beginning to think he’s too good for her.

Puck Part 24: Alpha Flight #29 (December, 1985)

Puck faces off against the Hulk, and must decide whether or not to remain an Alphan.

I have this issue.

The Hulk finds himself in Bochs’ lab at Alpha Headquarters, goes berserk and badly damages Box. Judd distracts Hulk long enough for Mr. Jefferies to repair him, but Hulk escapes and tears through downtown Vancouver. Judd and the team chase after him and get soundly beaten. Hulk heads South into the U. S., and Gary Cody shows up offering Heather official government funding from newly reformed Department H. Heather poses the offer to the team, and Judd says yes.

Notes of Interest:

1) This issue takes place immediately after both Alpha Flight #28 and The Incredible Hulk #313.

2) Judd holds his own against Hulk. Sure, he gets thrown around a bit, but he survives.

WTF? Moment: This is Bill Mantlo’s first issue writing Puck, and he does a decent job. Judd’s concerns for Heather’s safety are present without putting him in needless jeopardy – like pushing her out of the way of falling debris for example. In fact, it’s his feelings for her that drive him to attack rather than defend.

WTF? Moment #2: This is also Mike Mignola’s first issue drawing Judd. I guess I’m so used to how Byrne drew him that it’s hard for me to like Mantlo’s version. His shortness seems over-emphasized, and did he start bench pressing Buicks between issues?

WTF? Moment #3: Of course Judd’s going to stay with the team…if for no other reason than another chance to “pop one” on ol’ Gary.

Puck Part 23: The Incredible Hulk #313 (November, 1985)

Puck helps bring the Hulk back to Earth 616.

I have this issue.

This issue tells how Hulk returns to Earth from his perspective. We see Judd in the final panel, reacting to the Hulk appearing in their headquarters.

Notes of Interest:

1)  No character development here, but this issue takes place during - and ends at roughly the same moment as - Alpha Flight #28.

WTF? Moment: I guess it was a good thing Judd kept his costume on, eh?

Puck Part 22: Alpha Flight #28 (November, 1985)

Puck witnesses Walter Langkowski transfer his soul to an unlikely host.

I have this issue.

This issue begins by retelling the last few moments of Alpha Flight’s encounter with the Beyonder, and Judd is there, awake and feeling great, as Talisman transports the whole team back to their leased headquarters in Vancouver. While Heather orders the team to take a break, and she takes a bath, the power goes out, and she investigates. Judd is with the rest of the team in Bochs’ lab and explains to her that they’re in the process of searching different dimensions for a suitable body for Walter’s soul. The plan works in that they find a body and reel it in, it fails in that the body they find belongs to the Hulk, and Walter’s soul is lost.

Notes of Interest:

1) This issue takes place during and after Secret Wars II #4.

2) Judd doesn’t seem to have a problem explaining the logic behind such a crazy stunt.

3) This is the first time Judd meets Hulk.

4) This is John Byrne’s last issue on the title until #81.

WTF? Moment: Heather took the time to have a bath once they returned to their headquarters. Judd could have gone immediately to work with Bochs’ plan with the others, but couldn’t he have taken some time to change into regular clothes first? He’s been tossed around, thrown to the floor and transported around the country. He needs some time off. That better be a beer he’s drinking…

Puck Part 21: Secret Wars II #4 (October, 1985)

Puck meets the Beyonder, and gets tossed aside like his namesake…again…

I have this issue.

The Beyonder appears at the West Edmonton Mall just after Shaman’s pouch is restored, with Talisman trapped inside. Suspecting that he’s another member of Omega Flight, Judd and the others attack. The Beyonder grabs Judd’s arm, and holds him as Northstar and Aurora are taken out, then tosses Judd aside. He stays conscious this time, and witnesses Shaman’s pouch grow in size until Talisman is brought out of it. The pouch returns to its normal size, and Beyonder vanishes.

Notes of Interest:

1) This issue takes place immediately after Alpha Flight #27.

WTF? Moment: Judd seems too gung-ho to attack the Beyonder here. Maybe he’s just mad that he missed out on the other stuff and wants to see some action.

WTF? Moment #2: Judd seems to have finally woken up, even though his presence isn’t really necessary here. I think it would have made more sense for him to have been awake during Alpha Flight #27 and get knocked out here, but whatever...

Puck Part 20: Alpha Flight #27 (October, 1985)

Puck spends the entire issue out cold, missing some cool stuff.

I have this issue.

The story begins with Judd being carried around like an unwanted doll by Diamond Lil. “Dark Guardian”, a reprogrammed Delphine Courtney, begins torturing Talisman and that brings Shaman, Aurora and Box to the mall where Omega Flight is waiting for them. Shaman’s pouch is taken and turned inside out, which unleashes the void within, which starts consuming the real world – including the still unconscious Judd and other Alphans. Talisman succeeds in putting the void back in the pouch, thus rescuing Judd and the others, but she’s trapped inside, and Shaman is devastated.

Notes of Interest:

1) Did I mention that Judd is out through the whole thing?

WTF? Moment: To be fair, Northstar is also unconscious the whole issue, and Heather is knocked out before the void takes her as well. So it’s not like Judd’s the only one missing the fun, but still…

Puck Part 19: Alpha Flight #26 (September, 1985)

Puck gets tossed aside like his namesake by a mysterious foe that looks strangely familiar.

I have this issue.

Judd takes part in a training exercise Alpha has with the Canadian Military when information comes in saying that there’s trouble at the West Edmonton Mall. Omega Flight has taken it over, and Judd is one of the first to get there. He faces off against Diamond Lil, and gets suspended in mid-air. He recognizes the person behind his hovering before getting tossed into the floor, unconscious.

Notes of Interest:

1) Another issue with minimal character development, but it is nice to see him with the rest of the team.

WTF? Moment: Judd mentions that the general public is unaware of Guardian’s death (most likely a governmental decision), and then blurts to everyone outside the mall that Omega Flight killed him? Maybe he still holds a grudge against the government for leaving Heather out in the cold after Mac’s death. Maybe he’s on edge because Mac is back in Heather’s life. Whatever the reason, that wasn’t the best move on Judd’s part.

WTF? Moment #2: Again with the Women! Even though Judd gets a kick to the face, he turns red when he sees Diamond Lil, and I don’t think it’s from the cheap shot.

WTF? Moment #3: I’m a little disappointed that he couldn’t get one good hit in the entire issue. Not against the Gobot knock-offs, not against Lil. C’mon Byrne! Give the little guy his due!

Puck Part 18: Alpha Flight #25 (August, 1985)

Puck hears something on the emergency frequency that changes everything…

I have this issue.

Judd interrupts Northstar’s informal hearing and tells everyone that according the emergency frequency, Caliber has escaped from jail and is currently in battle…with Guardian.

Notes of Interest:

1) There’s absolutely no character development this issue…Judd appears in all of two panels.

WTF? Moment: Two panels? Really? I guess Judd just wanted to stay away while Heather and Shaman try to make sense of everything. He’s such a gentleman.

C-4!!!

So the 1st annual Coast City Comic Con starts tonight with a rave at the Space Gallery in Portland...

I've been so looking forward to this I can't even tell you.

I know I've been laaazy with reviewing my last convention attended last year, but things have been insane at work and, oh yeah, THE 1ST ANNUAL COAST CITY COMIC CON STARTS TONIGHT WITH A RAVE AT THE SPACE GALLERY IN PORTLAND!!!

So I'm going to be busy this weekend, but I still plan to post once/day with my continuation of Puck's appearances throughout my collection, and I WILL wrap up the Wizard New England Comic Con from 2010 before going into my exploits at this event.

So Happy Veteran's Day everyone, see you at the rave...

...and comment on something here will you? Feel like I'm talking to myself out here. Which is fine I guess, I do it at work all the time.

Puck Part 17: Alpha Flight #24 (July, 1985)

Puck travels to the Realm of the Beasts in search of Walter Langkowski’s soul.

I have this issue.

Judd joins Shaman, Talisman, Aurora, Heather, Snowbird and (eventually) Northstar at The Eye of the World, where they hope to return Walter’s soul to his body. While Heather stays behind, Judd and the others reach the Realm of the Beasts, confront the Great Beast Somon, and battle Tundra, Kariooq and Tolamaq. They find Walter’s soul and bring it back to Earth, only to find Walter’s body disintegrated. In order to save their teammate, Walter’s soul is transferred into Box’s physical form.

Notes of Interest:

1) Judd hints that he’s been around mysticism before.

2) He’s also familiar with Snowbird’s telling of how the Great Beasts were imprisoned; saying he’s heard it before, “in various forms, all around the globe”.

3) This marks Judd’s first meeting of the Great Beasts Tundra, Kariooq, Somon and Tolamaq.

WTF? Moment: I’m wondering what Judd was doing in the Realm of the Beasts in the first place. This is where they were imprisoned through magical means by the Ancient Gods of the North. Not a place a dwarf with no super abilities should visit. In fact, he spends the entire time running away from them. He should have stayed behind with Heather.

A Clarification on Adorkification

There’s an ongoing debate over the “true” definitions of Nerd, Geek and Dork.

Even Wikipedia has overlapping descriptions.

Here’s my definition of a “true” Dork…

My wife works in the growing Green Energy industry, and was reading a trade publication this morning over breakfast when she came upon an ad that she read to me.

“Have you got Torque Tube Displacer Problems?”

Now if I was a Nerd, I would have spouted an equation where T is the torque vector, r is the displacement vector and F is the force vector. Very Big Bang Theory.

If I were a Comic Geek, I would have said something about the Valiant Comics member of Harbinger – father to Magnus, Robot Fighter…or the Marvel Comics mutant who exists in an alternate future timeline…or the DC Comics villain who started a gang war for control of Blüdhaven.

My immediate response?

“Yeah, who couldn't use a little more Peter Tork in their lives?”

I’m a Dork…and this is my Blog.

Puck Part 16: Alpha Flight #23 (June, 1985)

Puck confronts a new villain, and an old friend…

I have this issue.

Judd’s exercising his natural ease around women as he trains Elizabeth Twoyoungmen in some hand-to-hand combat when news comes of a villain terrorizing downtown Vancouver named Caliber. Judd uses his skills to distract him, but it’s Sasquatch that deals the final blow that knocks Caliber out. The next thing Judd sees, aside from the sky getting darker, is Snowbird swoop in, turn into an owl and attack Sasquatch. She explains that Sasquatch is actually Tanaraq, one of the Great Beasts. Judd witnesses Snowbird turn into another Sasquatch form, fight and kill the Great Beast’s physical form.

Notes of Interest:
1) Judd shows genuine concern for Elizabeth’s training. It seems he has some experience teaching rookies the ropes, and worrying about them entering the battlefield too quickly.

2) He picks up on Snowbird’s carefully chosen words regarding the Great Beast’s physical form versus the death of Walter Langowski.

WTF? Moment: It’s obvious Judd has a thing for young women, but if he cares so much for Heather, why isn’t he comforting her instead of training Elizabeth? Maybe he would feel guilty about comforting a woman who may have just seen her late husband walking around, and is using sparring with Elizabeth as a distraction.

WTF? Moment #2: Judd meets another Great Beast, although technically, he’s seen this creature before.

WTF? Moment #3: Okay, time to nit-pick. Judd’s entering a confrontation with a villain who is in downtown Vancouver that very minute tearing things up. He’s in civvies, along with Walter, Aurora and Elizabeth (also in regular clothes) as they leave the gym. They all appear together in unison, in costume, to confront Caliber. Walter just has to become Sasquatch, Elizabeth just has to use her magical abilities to become Talisman, and Aurora is super fast. Which means Judd is the only one there who has to take the time to physically change his clothes. Even if Aurora flew him all the way back to his apartment in Toronto, (which I highly doubt, since Judd’s smart enough to have a spare costume nearby), and flew him all the way back to Vancouver, they’d all be standing around waiting for Judd to finish getting that cap-thing onto his head before stopping the bad guy. Talk about awkward…

Saturday, 10/16/2010 (New England Wizard Comic Con, Day 2, Part Two)

For my lunch break, I thought about returning to The Pour House, but figured there’d be something going on there that night so I went to another place further down Boylston Street. I can’t remember the name, but the food was good, and it was actually kind of nice to be somewhere not surrounded by cosplayers, vendors, or other convention-types for a while.

As I headed back to the center, I saw that the line to get in was still there, but another event was happening in the open area next door – another rally for the Governor. The road out front was still blocked off, and I learned that the event inside the center wasn’t happening until 4, so there was a chance the President, or James Taylor, or someone else from the event might stop by the Con.

Having completed my volunteering for the day, the afternoon was mine. So I stopped by some cool looking booths such as the Ghostbusters of New Hampshire, who had a real Ecto car and handmade proton packs.

There was also the 501st New England Garrison. Not your typical military outfit to be sure…

They had it set up so for $1, you could shoot a Nerf handgun at one of their Stormtrooper dressed members, $5 gave you a Nerf machine gun. The proceeds went to a local charity, which was awesome. They also answered questions about how they made their costumes and how the 501st got started. Really nice guys and gals.

My next planned event was attending the Adam West/Burt Ward Q & A. I made sure I was in line early enough to get in, but I wound up sitting on the aisle’s end closest to the wall.

This being my first convention panel attendance ever, I was unaware of the inconvenience of my location.

The panel started, and I was excited…until they made it clear that photo taking was strictly prohibited, which just sucked! Adam and Burt spoke for a few minutes before turning things over for questions. I hadn’t planned on asking any, but it seemed to me that what was asked has been asked many times before. In fact, if you’ve ever seen the extra features of the Batman: The Movie DVD, where Adam and Burt talk about their times on set and opinions about Bat-villains (which I have), you’d hear the exact same answers (which I did).

The one question I’m surprised nobody asked (and I would have if I had gotten to the mic in time) was if Adam or Burt ever spoke with Christopher Reeve or Lynda Carter, or offered advice to Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney or Christian Bale. If anyone reading this gets the chance, ask that and tell me what they said.

I mentioned my issues with zombies before, so needless to say I skipped The Walking Dead screening and continued checking out tables and talking to dealers. Both the dealers and the artists had the most to complain about regarding Obama’s visit. The overall feeling was that it hindered the con and kept everyone but the most die-hard fans away. I'm sure they're right, but this was my first three-day event and I had nothing to compare it to but a single Sunday afternoon event held in a banquet hall near Westbrook. In those terms, I thought the turn-out was pretty good.

Next was the costume contest, which was of course a blast.

Following that, I headed over to The Pour House for another bacon-burger and Captain-n’-Coke. I sat at the upstairs bar and chatted with another attendee that shared some stories and newfound treasures.

It was a fine end to a fine day, and with six more hours under my belt I had more that the required minimum to fulfill my volunteer duties. My plan was to work a few more hours Sunday morning and then spend the afternoon spending my money.

Wasn’t expecting the slight confrontation, awkward situation, and gift of appreciation I ended up with....


TO BE CONTINUED…

Puck Part 15: X-Men/Alpha Flight: The Gift #2 (January, 1986)

Puck and the rest of both Alpha Flight and the X-Men must decide whether or not to accept Loki’s gift.

I have this issue in the X-Men/Alpha Flight: The Gift Trade Paperback.

Judd is at a party inside the castle along with Heather, Professor Xavier and several others when Wolverine enters carrying the body of one of the scientists. It turns out the magic fountain that transforms humans into superhumans comes with a price: everyone whose natural abilities come from magic, starting with Snowbird and Shaman, are dying.

Lines are drawn, and Judd stands with the majority in favor of keeping the fountain. They all fight, until it is learned that in addition to magical powers being affected, those who have used the fountain can no longer create original ideas.

This changes everything, so Loki shows up and tries to force them to accept his gift by summoning an army of snow giants. Judd and the others fight the giants until the beings known as We Who Live Above in Shadow appear and force Loki to leave the humans be. Loki reluctantly agrees and removes all the abilities from everyone who went in the fountain, as well as all the benefits that came from those abilities. In Judd’s case, that means he is returned to his dwarfish body…and the pain that comes with it.

Loki offers a final chance to everyone to accept the fountain, even tempting Judd with the chance to once again “stand tall and proud…before thy lady love.” Judd responds by telling him to “take off”, and he does.

Everyone gets back on the DeHavilland Otter as the cold and snow reclaim the area, and they head for home.

Notes of Interest:

1) There’s not much here in terms of character development, but Judd meets Loki and They Who Sit Above In Shadow for the first time, and there are some cool moments for discussion…

WTF? Moment: Judd’s using a cane while six feet tall, not due to injury but because he’s lost his sense of balance. My question is: if Judd’s dwarfism is cured, along with the pain, wouldn’t his equilibrium also be “cured” and reconfigured for his new body?

WTF? Moment #2: He doesn’t appear in any of the fights, which makes sense if he’s not used to his new height and using a cane.

WTF? Moment #3: It surprised me that Judd would be in favor of keeping the fountain. I would have thought he’d be more loyal to Snowbird and Shaman than that. Maybe he just liked being six feet tall, but I don’t think he’d be that selfish.

WTF? Moment #4: Did anybody else notice that Judd’s right ear was also cured? I didn’t, not until I reread the issue for this review. Very nice touch.

WTF? Moment #5: Even Loki could tell that Judd has feelings for Heather. Is she really that thick?

Puck Part 14: X-Men/Alpha Flight: The Gift #1 (December, 1985)

Judd (and Alpha Flight) teams up with Logan (and the rest of the X-Men) to see what’s going on at Ungava Bay.

I have this issue in the X-Men/Alpha Flight: The Gift Trade Paperback.

Judd starts out this issue waiting in the…uh, waiting room…at the Sarcee Reservation Medical Center when it gets attacked by Rachel of the X-Men. The fight is over by the time he gets there, and he learns that some “terrible evil” at Ungava Bay is affecting Snowbird and may have brought down a plane carrying Cyclops and several Canadian scientists. It is agreed that both teams should investigate, and Judd manages to get a plane big enough them all to travel together.

When they arrive, they find a field of summer grass and an extravagant castle sitting in the middle of what is, essentially, the arctic north.

They are all met by Cyclops, who welcomes them into the building where the others from the downed plane are waiting. Madelyne, Cyclops’ wife, meets Judd and offers to cure him of his dwarfism. Judd agrees, and becomes over six feet tall. His clothes get reconstructed by Cornucopia, and he enjoys the feast laid out for everyone.

Afterwards, Judd joins the group Cyclops leads to the source of everyone’s abilities - a magic fountain that calls out to Heather, and transforms her into another being with special abilities. Before anyone can celebrate, Shaman’s mystic pouch goes crazy, expelling all kinds of creatures that attack him. Aurora and Northstar manage to get rid of the pouch, and with it the creatures, but Shaman is hurt badly, and Madelyne’s powers can’t cure him.

Notes of Interest:
1) Apparently, Judd has connections that allow him access to a variety of things, including a DeHavilland Otter.

2) Judd’s also an accomplished pilot.

3) This is the first meeting between Judd and: Cyclops, Rachel Summers, Nightcrawler, Shadowcat, Rogue, Colossus, Lockheed and Professor Xavier.

4) It is hinted here that Judd’s dwarfism may have been caused by something other than genetics.

WTF? Moment: I like how Judd’s first thought at seeing Heather go into the light is to be with her. That’s just sweet.

WTF? Moment #2: I guess we finally see how Judd managed to get from Toronto to Ottawa in Alpha Flight #1 – he flew himself.

WTF? Moment #3: Don’t it just figure that as soon as Judd’s tall enough to look Heather in the eye she has to go and get taller?