May 16, 2008 --
June 22: Jim Lee Signs For CBLDF in California!
This Sunday, June 22, Jim Lee, the legendary artist and CBLDF Defender of Liberty will be signing comics to benefit the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund at Outer Planes Comics & Games! 526 Seventh St.
Santa Rosa CA 95401 For more info call 707-546-2000
April 23, 2008 --
CBLDF Wins Gordon Lee Case!
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund scored a victory last Friday when prosecutors dismissed all charges against Rome, GA retailer Gordon Lee. Neil Gaiman announced that Judge Larry Salmon signed off on the dismissal on Friday evening at New York Comic Con.
"This is a victory for Gordon, and a victory for comics," says CBLDF Executive Director Charles Brownstein. "For more than three years, the comics world has stood behind Gordon's innocence and now we are vindicated."
April 02, 2008 --
APR 16: RASL Premiere Party, Tix Available Now!
Toast the arrival of Jeff Smith's new comic book epic RASL! Come meet Jeff Smith in person at his only New York City appearance of the season, enjoy an open bar, and get a takeaway bag of tons of exclusive RASL goodies. Only 100 general admission tickets and 26 VIP tickets are available so get your ticket now! Tickets are available now! Get the Full Details here!
April 01, 2008 --
APR 15: CBLDF Drink & Draw Starring Aqua Leung!
Tax Day is Over! Now drink up with NYC's best cartoonists and party for a good cause! Featuring Jeffrey Brown, David Finch, Dan Goldman, Alex Maleev, Paul Maybury, and dozens of NY's Finest Cartoonists. Sponsored by ComicSpace.com and Image Comics, premiering Paul Maybury's graphic novel AQUA LEUNG.
Tuesday, April 15
7:00 to 11:00 PM
Village Pourhouse
64 3rd Avenue at 11th St
Drink Specials all night!
$5 Suggested Donation; $20 for VIP Schwag Bag
February 22, 2008 --
Y: THE LAST PARTY Lives On With Video, Auctions!
Starting now on CBLDF's MySpace Profile (http://www.myspace.com/cbldf) you can experience the event with video featuring luminaries from the comics and entertainment world celebrating the conclusion of Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra's Y: THE LAST MAN! A benefit for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, Y: THE LAST PARTY raised over $10,000 in net proceeds. That number will rise when the CBLDF launches an auction of tribute art by the likes of Jill Thompson, Cameron Stewart, Niko Henrichon, and more created for the party on eBay this Saturday. For details on the auction, please visit (http://www.myspace.com/cbldf)
MySpace Comic Books, the comics community of the world's most popular social network, and Meltdown Comics
, the renowned Los Angeles-based comic book shop, today announced a first-of-its-kind event for the comic book industry: Y: THE LAST PARTY.
Taking place on February 8th at Meltdown, the party is a celebrates the conclusion of the internationally acclaimed comic book series Y: The Last Man and is a benefit for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. Joss Whedon will appear in person to toast Y: The Last Man co-creators Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra. All proceeds from this once-in-a-lifetime event will benefit the First Amendment work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.
VIP Tickets are sold out, but there will be standing room tickets offered on the day of the party. For more details click here
December 03, 2007 --
CBLDF Says Thank You With Member Appreciation Holiday Parties!
Come celebrate comics, support the First Amendment, and toast a host of guest creators out to thank you for supporting the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund at the CBLDF Member Appreciation Holiday Parties!
Throughout December, the Fund is hosting parties in New York City, Los Angeles, CA, Berkeley, CA, and Vienna, VA featuring comics stars, incredible jam-packed gift bags, door prizes, auctions, discounts & more! Admission to all parties is free for card-carrying CBLDF members, or those who join or renew at the door.
Read on to see what's happening!
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund proudly presents its 2007 Holiday Benefit Auction on eBay , featuring over 40 rare and one-of-a-kind items offered to support the First Amendment legal work the Fund performs on behalf of the comics community. Proceeds from this auction will directly benefit the ongoing defense of Gordon Lee in Rome, GA. Bidding is now open , with most items closing on Sunday, December 9.
Bid Now!
November 05, 2007 --
Gordon Lee Case Declared A Mistrial
The case against Gordon Lee took another in an ongoing series of bizarre turns this afternoon when statements made by State prosecutor John Tully during opening arguments led to a mistrial.
November 05, 2007 --
A Special Message From Jeff Smith
Jeff Smith has a special note for you about how we all can support the CBLDF while it goes to court for Gordon Lee in GA. Full Story
October 31, 2007 --
Gordon Lee Trial Begins November 5
On November 5, after three years of criminal charges, legal proceedings, and seemingly countless delays, Comic Book Legal Defense Fund defendant Gordon Lee will finally have his day in court. Full Story
October 12, 2007 --
Retailers On The Rise At CBLDF
As the comics retail community departs for Diamond’s Fort Wayne Retailer Summit this weekend, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF) is proud to announce the election of Joe Ferrara of Atlantis Fantasyworld to the office of Vice President of the organization, and to welcome Chris Powell of Lone Star Comics & MyComicShop.com as the newest member of its Board of Directors. Ferrara & Powell join President Chris Staros, Treasurer Milton Griepp, Secretary Louise Nemschoff, Peter David, Neil Gaiman, Paul Levitz, and Steve Geppi on the Board.
October 02, 2007 --
ComicBookShelf.Com Gives Back To The Industry
Starting October 1, ComicBookShelf.com , one of
Northern California's leading online graphic novel retailers, will be
giving back to the comic book industry by donating a percentage of
every sale to the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund and the Hero
Initiative.
August 16, 2007 --
Gordon Lee Trial Delayed Again
The long running case of Georgia v. Gordon Lee just got longer. The closely watched Free Expression case, which was scheduled to go to trial yesterday, was postponed because the judge was unable to appear due to illness. The case will be rescheduled, and is likely to run on the next misdemeanor trial calendar this November.
“Obviously we’re disappointed that the case was unable to go yesterday, as scheduled, but understand that this kind of delay is nobody’s fault and unavoidable. We wish Judge Salmon a speedy recovery,” says CBLDF Executive Director Charles Brownstein.
Full Story
August 15, 2007 --
Gordon Lee Trial Starts Today
The eyes of the comics, publishing, and Free Expression communities are focused on Rome, GA as the trial of Gordon Lee begins this morning. Full Story
August 08, 2007 --
All Star Sketch Duel & More at Wizard World!
This weekend the best of the comics industry lands in Chicago for Wizard World!
The CBLDF will be there, hosting a star-studded Sketch Duel on Saturday afternoon from 6:30 - 7:30 in the Wizard School Room. Witness live art made before your eyes and bid to take the pieces home! Participating artists will include Matt Wagner, Whilce Portacio, Phil Hester, Tony Moore, and very special guest Michael Golden!
July 20, 2007 --
CBLDF Live Art Jam At Comic-Con! With Jim Lee, Jeff Smith, Matt Wagner & Terry Moore!
Did you ever want to look over a legendary artist's shoulder while he or she created a great piece of art, then add it to your collection? Well, here's your chance to do just that and support a great cause! See Jim Lee (Batman), Matt Wagner (Grendel), Jeff Smith (Bone), and Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise) draw live art projected onto the big screen at the first ever CBLDF Live Art Jam at Comic-Con! Sunday Morning at 10:30 - 12:00 in Room 5 AB Full Details!
July 16, 2007 --
UPDATED: CBLDF Comic-Con Auction Preview Is Live & Bigger
This is the big one! Now featuring over 100 items, the CBLDF holds its biggest auction of the year at Comic-Con, and this year brings some amazing one-of-a-kind items to raise money for free speech! This year's items include original art by Jim Lee, Jeff Smith, Todd McFarlane, Paul Pope, Neil Gaiman, Brian Bendis, Jim Starlin, David Lloyd, Juan Santacruz, Terry Moore, and many, many, many more! Click here for a full illustrated preview!
Click through
for online bidding rules!
July 13, 2007 --
UPDATED: CBLDF's Comic-Con Welcome Party: Exclusives, Original Art & More!
Kick off the year's biggest comics show in style at the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund's Comic-Con Welcome Party on Thursday, July 26 at the Westgate Hotel in downtown San Diego. Sponsored by Image Comics, New York Comic-Con, Cartoon Books and Scholastic Grafix, the Comic-Con Welcome Party is presented by the CBLDF in association with Prism Comics. Join top artists for a night under the stars where you'll receive an amazing gift bag, witness an exclusive meeting of the Drink & Draw Social Club, and preview the Fund's amazing Comic-Con auction. The CBLDF Welcome Party starts at 7:30 PM on Thursday July 26. Admission is a $10 donation for CBLDF Members, and $20 and up for non-members. Click Here to check out all the cool exclusives!
July 10, 2007 --
A Message From Jim Lee
Jim Lee, superstar artist and Defender of Liberty sends a message out about supporting the CBLDF. Read on.
July 09, 2007 --
CBLDF Presents: An Evening With Laurell K. Hamilton
Meet Laurell K. Hamilton, the #1 New York Times bestselling author, at an intimate reception during Comic-Con International benefitting the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund! Ms. Hamilton will be appearing a gala benefit reception limited to 25 attendees on Friday, July 27 at a secret location in downtown San Diego. Click here to reserve your space
or read the
full story
.
June 21, 2007 --
Gordon Lee Trial Date Set – CBLDF Needs Your Help!
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund urgently needs your help. This August, the long-running case of Georgia v. Gordon Lee will finally go to trial, with court costs expected to hit $20,000. With Gordon Lee's freedom in the balance, the CBLDF needs everyone who values Free Expression in comic books to do his or her part to support this very important case. Please make your contribution today.
Learn more about the case and how you can help.
November 16, 2006 --
Gordon Lee Motions Denied, CBLDF Proceeds to Trial
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has learned that its recent motions to dismiss the case Georgia v. Gordon Lee have been denied. The Fund is now preparing to go to trial, which is anticipated to occur early in 2007.
Full Story
October 05, 2006 --
Gordon Lee Goes Back To Court
This Thursday, October 5, the long-running case of Georgia v. Gordon Lee goes back to court for a Hearing on Motions. This is the second such hearing in a case that has run for nearly two years, seen three arraignments, and at least two sets of facts, all arising from the same 2004 incident. To date the Fund has spent roughly $70,000 defending Lee’s case. Here, we provide a full look at the motions and the case's history. Full Story
July 31, 2006 --
Comic-Con International 2006 Sets CBLDF Fundraising Record!
The CBLDF is honored to thank all of our members, supporters, and partners for helping make Comic-Con International: San Diego 2006 the Fund’s most successful convention on record! The Fund raised nearly $67,000 at the Con, putting the organization on solid ground for managing the remainder of the year’s legal work. Full Story
July 18, 2006 --
Comic-Con Sketch Cards & Signing Schedule
The CBLDF is on the ground at San Diego. As everyone is busily setting up their booths, the Fund is gathering even more cool items to raise money for its free speech work at the show. Come by our booth, 1930 to see our wares, pick up a Sketch Card for a drawing by some of your favorite Fund-supporting artists, and get your books signed.
Click Here for all the details!
July 14, 2006 --
The Stars Are Out For The CBLDF Welcome Party at Comic-Con!
Image Comics, IDW Publishing, SuicideGirls.com, Prism Comics, Diamond Select Toys, and Dark Horse have teamed up to support the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund by hosting the Fund's Welcome Party at Comic-Con International! Read More!
July 14, 2006 --
CBLDF San Diego Auction Preview is Live!
Saturday evening, July 22, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund will host its annual benefit auction at the San Diego Convention Center. The Fund is offering a legendary selection of great original art, including pieces by Will Eisner, Frank Miller, Jack Davis, Jim Lee, Matt Wagner, Art Spiegelman, and many, many more. Beyond original art, we're also offering rare signed comics, graphic novels, signed scripts and other items. Check out this fantastic selection of one of a kind items, and let the bidding begin! (Can’t make it? We’re taking sealed bids as well!) Preview the auction now!
July 14, 2006 --
CBLDF Premiums at Comic-Con!
Nobody beats the CBLDF for great premiums from your favorite creators. At Comic-Con we’re releasing an all-new t-shirt by Jeff Smith, plus an array of books and comics signed by creators including Frank Miller, Art Spiegelman, Terry Moore, Garth Ennis, Amanda Conner, Neil Gaiman, and many, many more! Preview the Fund’s premiums by clicking here
June 14, 2006 --
Gordon Lee Faces New Indictment
Marking another bizarre turn in the saga of Georgia retailer Gordon Lee, Rome prosecutors have drawn up a new indictment that replaces the accusation CBLDF lawyers filed motions against earlier this month.
Full Story
June 01, 2006 --
CBLDF Files Motions to Dismiss Gordon Lee Case
Last Tuesday, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund’s legal team filed motions to dismiss the long-running case against Georgia retailer Gordon Lee, arguing that the law under which Lee is accused is unconstitutional. CBLDF counsel also filed a motion to dismiss the accusation based on prosecutorial misconduct.
Full Story
May 16, 2006 --
New Arraignment Scheduled for Gordon Lee
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has learned that a date of May 19 has been set for a new arraignment in the long-running case of Georgia v. Gordon Lee. Full Story
April 03, 2006 --
Gordon Lee: Case Dismissed, But Back To Square One
The long-running case of Georgia v. Gordon Lee took yet another strange turn of events yesterday when the prosecution dismissed all charges against the Rome, Georgia retailer only to bring a new accusation arising from the Halloween 2004 incident that resulted in his arrest.
Full Story
April 02, 2006 --
Gordon Lee Trial Begins Monday, April 3
On April 3, CBLDF defendant Gordon Lee will appear before the court in Rome, Georgia to begin his trial on two remaining misdemeanor counts of "Distribution of Harmful to Minors Material." Monday morning's calendar call will be followed by a full jury trial during the week.
Full Story
February 24, 2006 --
CBLDF Rocks New York Comic-Con With Joe Quesada, Kevin Smith, Frank Miller & Wildstorm!
The first New York Comic-Con starts today with a stellar guest list
and a blockbuster lineup of CBLDF events to raise money for free speech!
Highlights include a benefit rock show featuring Joe Quesada & Kevin Smith; Iron Gelatometti LIVE! featuring Jim Lee & Wildstorm; and a very special Frank Miller interview and auction. Read on!
February 10, 2006 --
Greg Thompson Named CBLDF Deputy Director At WonderCon
At this weekend’s WonderCon convention in San Francisco, CA, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has announced that creator Greg Thompson has been named as the organization’s new Deputy Director. Read on!
February 08, 2006 --
Frank Miller Hosts Sin City Screening For CBLDF!
Frank Miller, the legendary creator of comics and film, will be on hand to host a benefit screening of his hit film Sin City this Sunday at the Act 1 & 2 Theater in Berkeley. Plus, Comic Relief of Berkeley will be hosting an exclusive reception for CBLDF members and screening attendees. Read On!
February 08, 2006 --
"Strange" Bedfellows!
On Sunday afternoon of WonderCon from 2:45 to 3:30, Emily the Strange creator Rob Reger and illustrator Buzz Parker will be signing to support the CBLDF! Full Story
February 08, 2006 --
A Frank Miller Treasure Trove At WonderCon!
Frank Miller fans rejoice! This weekend the Fund has all your Miller needs covered at WonderCon. Two signings, a spotlight panel, and tons of rare premiums, including signed copies of Miller's entire Daredevil run from his personal archive and All Star Batman & Robin #1 -- Special Edition signed by Miller & Jim Lee for all members signing up at the show. And much more!
February 01, 2006 --
Terry Moore To Appear At Austin Books’ Fundraiser For The CBLDF!
On Friday February 3rd, Austin Books & Comics will host a fundraiser and membership drive for the CBLDF from 8-11 PM with special guest Terry Moore, creator of Eisner Award winning STRANGERS IN PARADISE to support the preservation of First Amendment rights for members of the comics community. Full Story
December 14, 2005 --
Wildstorm v. Aspen Battle Benefits CBLDF!
Two titanic comic studios. Eight colossal artists. Wildstorm’s Jim Lee, Ale Garza, Carlos D’anda, and Richard Friend faced off against Aspen’s Michael Turner, Marcus To, Koi Turnbull, and Micah Gunnell in the art battle of the year, all to benefit the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. Now you can own the pieces!
Bid Now or click here for full story!
December 07, 2005 --
Original Art Auction on eBay, Featuring Jim Lee, Tim Sale, Mark Brooks, & More!
he CBLDF is following up on its victory in last week’s hearing on motions submitted in defense of Gordon Lee with another round of eBay auctions to help subsidize the case. This week, the Fund is offering a stellar selection of original art from artists including Jim Lee, Tim Sale, Mark Brooks, Mike Oeming, and more! All proceeds from these auction will offset the immediate expenses incurred by last week’s hearings. To help the Fund continue to wage a successful defense in Georgia, please bid on these great items!
December 01, 2005 --
Prosecution Dismisses 4 Out of 7 Counts Against Gordon Lee
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund welcomes the outcome of today’s pretrial hearing on motions brought in defense of Georgia retailer Gordon Lee. Four out of seven counts against Lee were dismissed before Judge F. Larry Salmon at a pretrial hearing in Rome, Georgia. Full Story
November 30, 2005 --
CBLDF Goes to Court for Gordon Lee; Launches eBay Support Initiative
This Thursday the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund goes to court in Rome, GA on behalf of retailer Gordon Lee. The CBLDF legal team will be arguing at a hearing on motions to dismiss charges against Lee. To support the court costs of this very important hearing, the Fund is launching seven eBay auctions this afternoon at 3:00 Eastern/12:00 Pacific Time. To bid on this week's auctions, click here.
For the full story, click here.
October 12, 2005 --
Be Immortalized In Greg Rucka's New Atticus Kodiak Novel
Greg Rucka is auctioning off a major role in his upcoming Atticus Kodiak novel Patriot Acts to benefit the CBLDF. Read on to discover how you can play a big part in this upcoming book and Bid Now!
September 19, 2005 --
Joe Ferrara Joins CBLDF Board of Directors
At today’s Diamond Retailer Summit in Baltimore, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund announced the unanimous election of Atlantis Fantasyworld owner Joe Ferrara to its Board of Directors. Full Story
August 31, 2005 --
Gordon Lee Court Schedule Changes
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has learned that the court schedule in the Gordon Lee case has been changed. The hearing on the motions originally scheduled for September 8 has been moved to December 1. The trial, originally scheduled for September 12 will be rescheduled following the hearing on the motions. The rescheduling was mutually agreed upon by the prosecution and defense.
August 31, 2005 --
CBLDF Seeks Deputy Director
The CBLDF is seeking to hire a Deputy Director. Click here for the full details.
August 24, 2005 --
Exclusive Joseph Michael Linsner Dawn Print Benefits CBLDF at Dragon*Con
Joseph Michael Linsner, the acclaimed creator of Dawn, has created a new print to be unveiled at Dragon*Con supporting the CBLDF's defense of Gordon Lee. "Inflammatory Pages" is a stunning new Dawn image that will be available at Dragon*Con in a strictly limited edition of 250 signed copies, with all profits benefiting the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.
August 05, 2005 --
Wizard World Auction Goes Live!
Wizard Chicago has been fast and furious for the CBLDF. The booth is taking in brisk donations and pros have come out with more and more generous contributions for tonight’s benefit auction. Sponsored by Wizard, the auction will be hosted by Kevin Smith, Joe Quesada, Gareb Shamus, and Dan DiDio, plus a special appearance by Jim Lee.
Topping the highlights of show donations are an original page of art by Jim Lee, the first copy in circulation of the retailer incentive Batman and Robin the Boy Wonder #1 signed by Frank Miller and Jim Lee, and two very cool offers from Brian Bendis – the opportunity to be drawn into New Avengers, and the opportunity to show up as a body in Powers. The items and many more will be available at the auction. Sealed bids can be sent to CBLDF Director Charles Brownstein by 9:00 PM Eastern Time. Send bids to cbldf1@gmail.com. All bids must include the item title, bidder’s name, phone number, and a valid credit card number with expiration date. If sealed bidders win, they will be notified by phone before they are charged. All sealed bids will be deleted following the auction.
August 04, 2005 --
Industry Rallies Behind CBLDF At Wizard World Chicago Auction
Join Kevin Smith, Jim Lee, Joe Quesada, Gareb Shamus, and more of the comics industry’s best and brightest by coming out to support the CBLDF’s defense of Gordon Lee at this Friday’s Wizard World benefit auction party. Sponsored by Wizard, the Fund’s auction party gathers top pros and Fund supporters for an evening of mixing, mingling, and bidding on a variety of fantastic items benefiting the Fund’s current casework. Full Story
July 11, 2005 --
Trial Date Set in Gordon Lee Case
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has learned that a date of September 12 has been set to begin the trial of the Gordon Lee case. The trial is scheduled to begin just four days following the hearing on the motions filed by CBLDF counsel. To date, the Fund has spent in excess of $30,000 defending this case and anticipates needing to spend at least that much to properly wage the trial. Full Story
July 11, 2005 --
Sandman Portfolio Benefits CBLDF In Comic-Con Auction
The CBLDF is proud to announce the Sandman portfolio at Comic-Con International: San Diego, on Saturday July 16. A centerpiece of the Fund's gala auction, the Sandman portfolio brings together original pieces from artists like Dave Sim, Mike Dringenberg and David Mack for a very worthy cause - supporting and protecting the free-speech rights of comic book artists and their industry. Read on for the full listing!
July 11, 2005 --
Top Artists Draw For CBLDF At Comic-Con!
Score some great original art from creators Jim Lee, Jeff Smith, Terry Moore, Tim Sale, Brian Stelfreeze, Peter Bagge, Dean Haspiel and more at the CBLDF booth at Comic-Con! These creators and many more will be making commissioned drawings throughout the weekend to benefit the Gordon Lee case. Read on!
July 07, 2005 --
Experience The Magic of MirrorMask At CBLDF Comic-Con Welcome Party!
The Jim Henson Company, Destination Films, Samuel Goldwyn Films, and Dark Horse have teamed up to support the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund by hosting the Fund's MirrorMask Welcome Party at Comic-Con International. Featuring art, props, and images from the upcoming film MirrorMask —in theaters September 30—this gala party will be held at the Westgate Hotel's Terrace Under the Stars on Thursday July 14 from 8 PM until 11 PM. The catered event will be free to card-carrying CBLDF members and open to all others for a suggested $5 - $15 sliding scale donation. Full Story
June 07, 2005 --
CBLDF Moves To New York City
After more than a decade headquartered in Northampton, MA, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund is moving its offices to New York City. Full Story
May 23, 2005 --
CBLDF Takes Action in GA Case
Counsel for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund have submitted four motions to dismiss the charges against retailer Gordon Lee, owner of Legends in Rome, GA. Last February, the Fund initiated Lee’s defense against charges resulting from accidentally distributing Alternative Comics #2, a Free Comic Book Day book from 2004, to a minor. The anthology includes the story “The Salon” by Nick Bertozzi, which contains a segment depicting Picasso in the nude. The Fund has already spent in excess of $20,000 defending this case. Full Story
May 23, 2005 --
Support the GA Defense In CBLDF Auctions
The CBLDF offers the cream of the crop on eBay this week to assist in funding the Georgia Case. On offer is an Art Spiegelman drawing, League of Extraordinary Gentlemen vol. 2, #1 signed by Alan Moore & Kevin O'Neill, Batman #608 RRP Edition signed by Jim Lee, Sandman #50 signed by Neil Gaiman, Alex Ross Shazam art print, signed by Ross & Paul Dini, and Angry Christ Comix signed with a Dawn Sketch by Joseph Michael Linsner. Bid Now!Full Story
May 23, 2005 --
Call For Art Donations
Got an piece of art sitting unloved in your file drawer? Use it to help the Fund! The CBLDF is currently calling upon artists and collectors to make donations of original art and rare collectibles to assist in summer fundraising. Full Story
May 13, 2005 --
CBLDF Knocks Out South Carolina Internet Censorship Law
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund and a broad coalition representing the interests of booksellers, artists, writers and publishers have secured an important victory that strikes down South Carolina's Harmful to Minors Internet law as unconstitutional. Full Story
March 01, 2005 --
Support the Fund at STAPLE this Saturday!
This Saturday come meet the CBLDF at STAPLE! The Independent Media Expo. The show is Texas' first and only independent comics, zines, art and literature show, and is happening in Austin on March 5, 2005, from 10am-6pm at the Elks Lodge at 700 Dawson Rd.
Over 30 exhibitors from Texas and across the nation will be displaying their small-press and self published comics, mini-comics, zines, and art. Special guests and panelists include Shannon Wheeler, Lea Hernandez, Scott Kurtz, Chris Moreno, Rafael Navarro, Jessie Garza, Barb Lien-Cooper and Terry Moore.
The coolest part about STAPLE! is that it’s only $5 to get in and a portion of the door proceeds will go to benefit the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.
Fight censorship and check out the latest in indy comics at STAPLE! For more information, and to see the list of exhibitors visit www.staple-austin.org
February 07, 2005 --
CBLDF Initiates Obscenity Defense in Georgia
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has undertaken the defense of retailer Gordon Lee of Legends in Rome, GA against charges arising from the dissemination of “Alternative Comics #2.” Lee was arrested on charges of distributing material depicting nudity, and distributing obscene material to a minor; the first charge alone, a felony offense in Georgia, carries a penalty of one to three years in prison and/or fines of up to $10,000, if convicted. Full Story
February 04, 2005 --
Customs Folds Following CBLDF Challenge
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has secured an important victory against U.S. Customs concerning the seizure of parody comics in South Carolina. Full Story
January 12, 2005 --
Will Eisner’s The Spirit Graces 2005 CBLDF Member Card
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF) is proud to announce that Will Eisner’s legendary character The Spirit will be featured on its 2005 Member Card. The image, drawn by Eisner himself, is an extraordinary statement about the late master’s commitment to protecting the comics field’s First Amendment rights.
December 30, 2004 --
CBLDF Year in Review
CBLDF Executive Director Charles Brownstein summarizes the Fund in 2004, reviewing casework, changes to the Board, and fundraising highlights. Read on for this comprehensive look back.
December 06, 2004 --
U.S. Government Seizes Parody Comics At Customs
On October 27, U.S. Customs sent a letter to Top Shelf Productions notifying them that copies of the anthology Stripburger had been seized, charging that the stories "Richie Bush" by Peter Kuper and "Moj Stub" (translated, "My Pole") by Bojan Redžić, constituted "clearly piratical copies" of registered and recorded copyrights. The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has retained counsel to challenge these seizures.
November 18, 2004 --
CBLDF Wins Victory in Arkansas!
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund welcomes the November 16 ruling of U.S. District Judge G. Thomas Eisele of the federal court in Little Rock, Arkansas who ruled that Act 858, amending the Arkansas Code, is unconstitutional. The amendment criminalized the display of books which are inappropriate to younger minors but constitutionally protected as to older minors and adults. Full Story
November 18, 2004 --
Fiddler’s Green Sets CBLDF Fundraising Record!
Last weekend just over 300 Sandman fans made Fiddler’s Green the most successful fundraising event in CBLDF history. In three days the limited membership show devoted to Sandman and featuring several of its creators as guests of honor raised an early estimate of what will be $45,000 for the CBLDF. Full Story
November 10, 2004 --
Fiddler's Green This Weekend
This weekend Fiddler's Green, a celebration of Neil Gaiman's
masterwork The Sandman will take place in Minneapolis. Gaiman and
guests of honor Karen Berger, Charles Vess, Todd Klein, Caitlin R.
Kiernan, and Jill Thompson will be conducing panel discussions and
mingling with the select group of fans and enthusiasts who come out to
the convention. Other events occurring will include an auction on
Saturday night, a masquerade, and art show. All proceeds from the
auction and profits from the weekend will benefit the CBLDF. Read on for more details!
November 10, 2004 --
Sim/Gaiman Auction on Ebay
Running in conjunction with Fiddler's Green is an auction run by the Beguiling to benefit the CBLDF of "Lithograph No. 1: Neil Gaiman" Only 50 copies of the piece have been produced of which Neil Gaiman and Dave Sim have signed and numbered only 2: "#1/50" and "#2/50" and both have written the year,
"2004", adjacent to their respective signatures. Read on for bidding details
October 22, 2004 --
Arkansas Supreme Court Rules on Harmful to Minors Case
Yesterday the Arkansas Supreme Court issued an opinion answering certified questions from the U.S. District Court seeking an interpretation of Act 858, the State’s amendment to its “harmful to minors” display law. The case now goes back to the District Court for a decision. Full Story
October 12, 2004 --
Michigan Harmful to Minors Case Concludes
The CBLDF welcomes a legal decision that makes it clear that a new state law in Michigan regulating the display of material that is “harmful to minors” will not force retailers to alter the way they currently sell constitutionally protected comic books. Full Story
October 12, 2004 --
SPX Breaks Fundraising Record
During the first weekend of October, 2,400 cartoonists and readers from all over the world descended on Bethesda, MD for this year’s SPX where a record-breaking $22,000 was raised for the CBLDF! Read More
October 12, 2004 --
Queen & Country Character Auction Raises $1,000, Plus New Contest
Last week the Fund auctioned off the chance to be a character in the next, still to be titled Queen & Country novel, and the winner was Chuck Riess of Santa Clara, CA. Chuck won the auction for $887.77, then bumped his own bid up to $1,000! This week Greg is offering free bookplates and a contest to reward his readers. Find out more here!
September 30, 2004 --
Mignola & More at SPX
The CBLDF is on the road this weekend for the SPX Small Press Expo in Bethesda, MD. In its 10th year SPX is the country’s most prestigious alternative comics convention. This year CBLDF guest Mike Mignola leads off a list of creators that includes Jeff Smith, Eric Powell, Kyle Baker, Peter Kuper, Scott Morse, James Kochalka, Ted Rall and hundreds more.
The SPX is chartered to benefit the CBLDF and also has one of our most exciting auctions of the year. This year’s auction includes many great items including the very first page of original art from Craig Thompson’s Blankets to ever be released to the art market! Read More
September 30, 2004 --
Be A Character in Queen & Country
Be immortalized in the next Queen & Country novel in the latest CBLDF benefit auction. The CBLDF is auctioning off a role in Greg Rucka’s next Queen & Country novel this week on eBay. The winning bidder of this auction will have a character named after him or her written into the book. The lucky bidder will also receive a signed Advance Reading Copy of the novel signed by Rucka when it comes out, as well as a signed first edition hardcover of the book. Bid here!
September 13, 2004 --
Steve Geppi Joins CBLDF Board of Directors
During last night's presentations at the Diamond Retailer Summit, the
Comic Book Legal Defense Fund announced that Diamond's founder and
President, Steve Geppi, has accepted a seat on the group's Board of
Directors. Geppi joins Chris Staros, Peter David, Neil Gaiman, Milton
Griepp, Greg Ketter, Frank Mangiaracina, Louise Nemschoff, and Paul
Levitz in overseeing the direction of the non-profit organization.
September 13, 2004 --
Paul Levitz Joins CBLDF Board of Directors
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund last night announced that Paul Levitz has accepted a seat on its Board of Directors. The announcement came Sunday night during a dinner with members of DC’s retailer focus group (the RRP) preceding Diamond’s Baltimore Retailer Summit.
September 10, 2004 --
Baltimore Comicon & Even More Fund
This weekend the CBLDF touches down at Baltimore Comicon, the East Coast’s greatest Fall convention. Every year Baltimore Comicon goes all out to support the CBLDF, and this year is no exception with the premiere of Even More Fund Comics. The show also gathers a great guest list and is full of fun and surprises. Read on to see what's happening, what's on auction, and who's gonna be there!
September 02, 2004 --
Exclusive Peter David Book at DragonCon
The CBLDF is proud to offer an exclusive new chapbook by Peter David
available only to CBLDF members. 'Archetype/Angel: Rare Writings to
Benefit the CBLDF' will be available exclusively at DragonCon. The
chapbook features the out-of-print story "The Archetype" and the
script to "Fallen Angel #16" It is strictly limited to a signed and
numbered edition of fifty. "Archetype/Angel" is available to
card-carrying CBLDF members only for a $10 donation starting on
Saturday morning of DragonCon. [More]
August 27, 2004 --
WoodchuckPalooza at Mile High This Saturday
This upcoming Saturday, August 28th, marks the first ever Woodchuckpalooza - an autograph signing party on a Mile High scale!
Ten guests from all over the country, and all over the comic book industry, will be coming together to sign at the Mile High Comics Mega-Store in Thornton, Colorado (five miles north of Denver) from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.. These guests include many well known artists throughout the industry, as well as several hot young rookies. The ten guests include Talent Caldwell (Superman: Godfall), Tommy Castillo (Detective, Toe Tags), Christian Gossett (The Red Star), Livesay (The Flash), Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise), Chris Moreno (Travelers), Don Rosa (Uncle Scrooge), Andy Runton (Owly), Tone Rodriguez (Violent Messiahs), and Jim Shooter (former editor-in-chief of Marvel, Valiant, and Defiant).
August 27, 2004 --
After Hours Comic Book Jam at Canadian National Expo
On Saturday night of the Canadian National Expo, meet and mingle with comics’ crème de la crème at the Comic Book Jam. The jamming is reserved for professional comic book artists and those exhibiting in the Expo¹s Artist Alley, but all are welcome to attend. This intimate and interactive event gives our artists a chance to create and network in more social setting. All original art pieces from the Jam will be auctioned off at a later date with proceeds going to the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.
August 06, 2004 --
A Personal Message from Chris Staros
A message from the new president of the Fund the members -- and non-members -- about what you can do to take action.
August 04, 2004 --
Changing of the Guard at CBLDF
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund elected new officers at its Board of Directors meeting at July’s Comic-Con International. Founder Denis Kitchen retired from the Board, and will be replaced as President by Chris Staros, publisher of Top Shelf Productions. Milton Griepp was elected as the organization’s new Treasurer, succeeding Frank Mangiaracina. Peter David, John Davis, Neil Gaiman, Frank Mangiaracina, Greg Ketter, and Louise Nemschoff were also re-elected to serve another term on the Board of Directors. Full Story
July 20, 2004 --
CBLDF Signings & More at San Diego!
The CBLDF needs your support at San Diego, and to get it we're rolling out all the stops. From superstar signings, to our biggest auction of the year, to the return of t-shirts you demanded and all new prints, we're offering you some of the best opportunities you'll ever have to reward yourself while supporting free speech. Visit us at 4504/4506 and see all this cool stuff:
July 20, 2004 --
CBLDF San Diego Benefit Auction This Saturday
Every year the professional community rallies behind the CBLDF at Comic-Con in San Diego to help us hold our best auction of the year. This year we’ve got another full slate of amazing one-of-a-kind pieces, all to be auctioned off by Defender of Liberty Chuck Rozanski.
Some 60 items make up this year’s benefit auction, with highlights including:
· Jim Lee’s Art Portfolio, with Batman and Joker sketch on back. This is the ultimate item for any Jim Lee aficionado. It’s the portfolio that saw him through the transition from hot penciller to Image founder to superstar innovator behind today’s top superhero comics. This is a one-of-a-kind item that is not to be missed!
· John Romita, Jr, double page spread from Spider-Man #72. A beautiful action cityscape penciled and inked by the master craftsman of contemporary superhero comics.
June 30, 2004 --
CBLDF Victorious in COPA Fight
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund applauds yesterday’s Supreme Court decision upholding the ban on the Child Online Protection Act (COPA), a federal law which would have banned content providers from posting First-Amendment protected “harmful to minors” materials online.
“The Fund and our First Amendment allies see the decision as a key victory in the preservation of free speech in an online environment,” said Executive Director Charles Brownstein. The CBLDF has participated in challenges to COPA including both fights in the 3rd Circuit and both appearances before the Supreme Court. Full Story
May 20, 2004 --
CBLDF Touches Down At Wizard World Philly
This weekend the Wizard World Tour comes to Philadelphia and the CBLDF will be there with special events, cool new items, and breaking news from the front lines of free speech!
First up is Friday’s WizardWorld Sketch Duel featuring Skottie Young (Venom), Amanda Conner (The Pro), Tim Seeley (GI Joe), and surprise guests jamming away on cool original art that can be yours for the bidding. The Sketch Duel is at 2:00 on Friday afternoon. Read More
May 18, 2004 --
New Censorship Bill Turns Parents into Prosecutors
The Parents' Empowerment Act is in its earliest stage, but if it passes, it will seriously threaten retailers, distributors, and publishers. Family.org talked to Hunter who said, “If the people who published (the material), published it in such a way that they could reasonably have expected children to access it, then the parents can receive an award of $10,000.” Full Story
May 18, 2004 --
Teen Poet Gets Day In Court
On May 27, the teenager who was convicted of making a criminal threat by sharing his poetry will have his day in the California Supreme Court. Full Story
April 30, 2004 --
First DF FanFest Packs In the Crowds
The first ever, Free Dynamic Forces Fan Fest was held in Runnemede NJ this past weekend (April 24th at the Holiday Inn), and was a great time for Northeast Comics Fans. The show boasted a guest list that included some of the industry’s biggest names, including Brian Azzarello, Eduardo Risso, Chuck Austen, Jim Starlin, Howard Chaykin, Mark Millar, Josh Middleton, Ale Garza and Marvel Editor-in-Chief Joe Quesada. Read More
April 30, 2004 --
WonderCon Strikes San Francisco
This weekend the CBLDF will be attending WonderCon, the California Bay Area’s premiere comics convention. Entering its second year at San Francisco’s Moscone Center, WonderCon boasts an A-List guest roster of Fund supporters including Sergio Aragones, Erik Larsen, Matt Wagner, Greg Rucka, Judd Winick, and Jen Van Meter who will all be signing at the Fund booth over the course of the event. Read More
April 22, 2004 --
CBLDF At DF Fan Fest!
This Saturday the CBLDF will be sailing in to Runnemede, NJ for the very first Dynamic Forces Fan Fest! The DF Fan Fest is a novel idea – a free convention populated by scores of talented creators. Starting at 10 AM on Saturday you’ll be able to meet Brian Azzarello, Dave Johnson, Eduardo Risso, Will Dennis, Nelson DeCastro, Chuck Austen, Mark Millar, Tom Palmer, JG Jones, Jim Starlin, Michael Avon Oeming, Ale Garza, Howard Chaykin, Scott Hanna, Kevin McCarthy, Josh Middleton, Jamal Igle, Jose Villarrubia, Mark Morales, Joe Quesada, Dan DiDio, Jimmy Palmiotti and Jim McLauchlin under one roof, for absolutely no charge! Full Story
April 02, 2004 --
Pizza With The Pros: A Dynamic Team-Up
Millar. Azzarello. Chaykin. Starlin. Austen. Oeming. Risso. No, it’s not a superteam or the spine on a trade paperback. Those are just some of the pros that you’ll be meeting at the Dynamic Forces Fan Fest! To commemorate that special event, DF is teaming up with the CBLDF to bring you Pizza with the Pros, where the top five bidders on this CBLDF eBay auction will go to dinner with the all-star creators coming to this exciting DF show. Read More or Bid Now
March 26, 2004 --
Planet Comicon Coming Up This Weekend
This weekend the Fund will be set up at Planet Comicon in Kansas City. Planet is the largest pop culture and comic book convention in its area, will be held on Saturday March 27 from 10-5 and Sunday March 28 from 10-4 at the Overland Park International Trade Center, 115th and Metcalf, in Overland Park, Kansas.
The Fund will be set up at the show and will be doing a Sketch Duel on Saturday afternoon. Stop by and show your support.
For more information visit http://www.planetcomicon.com.
February 03, 2004 --
CBLDF, Marvel, & Perez Smash Censorship!
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, Marvel Comics, and George Perez have teamed up to smash censorship!
January 26, 2004 --
Cartoon Art Museum & CBLDF Team Up For APE Party!
The Cartoon Art Museum and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund are proud to announce the Fourth Annual Alternative Press Expo (APE) Benefit Bash. On February 21, 2004, come to CAM to mingle with dozens of the finest stars in comics and many up-and-coming cartoonists as they gather to celebrate the comics medium and support these two distinguished organizations.
January 14, 2004 --
CBLDF Joins Michigan "Harmful to Minors" Fight
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has joined a coalition of
booksellers, publishers and magazine distributors in filing a federal
lawsuit in Detroit last Monday that challenges the constitutionality
of a new Michigan law that makes it a crime to allow a minor to
examine a book that is "harmful to minors."
January 14, 2004 --
COMICON.COM HOLIDAY AUCTION RAISES $7,800 FOR CBLDF
The Second Annual Comicon.com Holiday Auction closed on Christmas Eve raising $7,800 for the CBLDF. Brainchild of Comicon.com founders Rick Veitch and Steve Conley, the duo established the annual benefit auction last year as a way of giving back to the Fund.
December 16, 2003 --
More Fund Comics Raises Over $17,000 in 2003!
More Fund Comics, the benefit book published by Sky Dog Comics with the Baltimore Comicon has raised over $17,000 for the CBLDF so far this year. Read on for the full story...
December 09, 2003 --
2nd Annual CBLDF Benefit Auction from COMICON.COM Starts Today!
Frank Cho, Rick Veitch, Neil Gaiman, Stan Lee, Phil Jiminez, Bill Griffith, JH Williams, and more have donated work for auction to kick off the 2nd Annual Comicon.com CBLDF benefit auction. Read on for full details!
November 03, 2003 --
CBLDF Joins Patriot Act Fight
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has joined an amicus brief in support of an ACLU challenge of Section 215 of the Patriot Act. Full Story
November 03, 2003 --
CBLDF Joins The Media Coalition
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund is proud to announce that it has become a member of the Media Coalition, a national association that defends the First Amendment right to produce and sell books, magazines, recordings, videotapes, videogames, and now comic books. The Fund's membership in the group affords its members a stronger voice in the law. Read on
October 29, 2003 --
CBLDF Goes Vegas, Baby!
This weekend the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund will be raising funds and boosting the fun at the inaugural Las Vegas Comic-Con! Afterwards we'll be swapping notes with the nation's best retailers at the Diamond Retailer Summit. Read on to find out what the Fund's up to at these exciting events!
October 10, 2003 --
T-Shirt Auction!
The Fund just completed its third quarter inventory and found a small cache of some of our out of print t-shirts. Classic designs by artists including Dave Sim, Terry Moore, Linda Medley, Frank Miller, and Peter Kuper were among the finds, which we’re passing along to you on eBay right now. Visit eBay to bid on these out of print tees. Once they’re gone, they’re history!
October 10, 2003 --
Summer Recap!
“How did it get to be October already,” CBLDF Director Charles Brownstein asked your reporter when work started on this edition of CBLDF News. Brownstein was speaking rhetorically: time flew is what happened and for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund a lot of time was spent flying around the country to keep up with the super-busy late summer convention season and the Fall term of First Amendment work. Read on to discover what’s been going on.
August 06, 2003 --
Wizard World Auction Preview
Click here to check out the cool items being auctioned off to benefit the Fund at Wizard World. From scripts by Alan Moore & Garth Ennis to one of a kind art by Frank Miller and much more. Check it out!
August 05, 2003 --
Supreme Court Denies Castillo Appeal
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has learned that the U.S. Supreme Court denied Jesus Castillo’s petition for writ of certiorari, bringing his three-year quest for justice to a close. Castillo is presently serving a period of unsupervised probation. Full Story
July 30, 2003 --
Comic-Con Premiums on eBay!
Signed Neil Gaiman, Alan Moore, Frank Miller, and Garth Ennis work is up on eBay this week, straight from Comic-Con! Read descriptions here and bid here
July 25, 2003 --
Blogging For Liberty!
The 2003 Blogathon starts tomorrow at 6 AM Pacific Time. Blogathon
is a 24 hour telethon-like event where webmasters post articles /
updates to their website every 30 minutes for 24 hours straight.
Users pledge either a flat amount or an amount-per-hour, and all
proceeds go to the charity or organization of the webmasters'
choosing. This year the following supporters are sacrificing sleep
and sanity to benefit the Fund. Pay them many visits or better yet,
make a pledge and watch the results! Full Story!
July 10, 2003 --
CBLDF Benefit Auction in San Diego
The Fund’s annual San Diego auction brings out our best donations to raise funds for our casework and this year’s is no exception. Keynote items include a Sandman quilt presented to Neil Gaiman on his 42nd birthday; Rich Koslowski’s cover to Busted #12; Jim Lee’s lobster bib from the Palm Restaurant in Denver; a reproduction of the script to Big Numbers #3 signed by Alan Moore, and much, much more. Click here to see the full list
July 10, 2003 --
CBLDF Events in San Diego
From the Members Reception at the Dublin Square to a benefit reading by Neil Gaiman, the CBLDF has a full schedule of great events coming your way in San Diego. Click here to see what we've got planned!
July 10, 2003 --
San Diego Signing Schedule
Frank Miller, Neil Gaiman, Brian Azzarello, Greg Rucka, Jaime Hernandez, Denis Kitchen, Keith DeCandido, Jai Sen, Jill Thompson, Rich Koslowski, Larry Marder, and more cool creators will be signing at the CBLDF booth #1233/1235 at San Diego. Find out when by clicking here!
July 10, 2003 --
CBLDF Debuts at Comic-Con San Diego
Get the low down on new prints by Frank Miller, Neil Gaiman, and Larry Marder as well as the SPX book and Vertigo Desk Diary premiering at San Diego to benefit the CBLDF! Full Story
July 02, 2003 --
Chuck Rozanski Named 2003 Defender of Liberty
As last Saturday’s Jim Lee signing party began, Fund Director Charles Brownstein announced that the CBLDF Board of Directors has selected Chuck Rozanski to be the 2003 Defender of Liberty. Rozanski joins past winners Harlan Ellison, Neil Gaiman, Frank Miller, George Perez, Brian Pulido as recipients of the Fund’s highest honor. Full Story
June 26, 2003 --
CBLDF Files Suit Against New Arkansas Law
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has joined the American Booksellers
Foundation For Free Expression Inc, the Arkansas Library Association;
the Association Of American Publishers, Inc.; the Freedom To Read
Foundation, Inc.; the ACLU of Arkansas and others to strike down
Arkansas Act 858, which requires any content deemed "harmful to
minors" to be both segregated and blinded. CBLDF and
co-plaintiffs assert that the law unconstitutionally requires
retailers and libraries to prevent all minors from accessing
constitutionally protected materials that may be considered
inappropriate for younger minors. Full Story
June 11, 2003 --
DC Comics Prevails in Winter Case
Last week the California State Supreme Court unanimously decided in favor of DC Comics and the creators of Jonah Hex: Riders of the Worm & Such in the long-running dispute with Johnny and Edgar Winter. The California Supremes agreed with arguments set forth in DC’s briefs and in an amicus brief filed by the MPAA, CBLDF, and others, that the characters Johnny & Edgar Autumn used in the series were legitimate expressions in the context of a larger, First Amendment protected, expressive work. Full Story
June 11, 2003 --
Free Speech Prevails in St. Louis Video Game Case
Last week the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that video games were speech, overturning a 2002 decision. It was an important win for entertainment at large. Full Story
May 13, 2003 --
Write On! Greg Rucka Queen & Country Auction Raises Over $3,000
Last week we announced that Greg Rucka would write the winner of a CBLDF benefit auction into his upcoming Queen & Country novel. After a week of fierce bidding, Fund supporter Chris Lankford put in the winning bid of $3,050! Full Story
May 13, 2003 --
This Week on EBay
Be sure to visit the CBLDF on eBay during the week of June 13 to bid on great stuff including Super Friends action figures; signed prints by Will Eisner and Terry Moore; a signed Frank Miller tip-in plate; even a rare Alan Moore newspaper interview outlining his career as a magician. Bid now
May 13, 2003 --
A Well Traveled Bunch 2003 SPX Anthology Contributors!
The CBLDF is proud to announce the contributors to this year’s SPX Anthology. Published annually by the CBLDF to coincide with the Bethesda, MD small press comix convention, the SPX Anthology has become the comics equivalent of serious literary magazines like Granta and The Paris Review. The 296 page book features a new Jaime Hernandez cover and work by Full Story
March 26, 2003 --
CBLDF Joins MPAA Amicus Brief in 'Jonah Hex' Case
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has joined the Motion Picture Association of America, Association of American Publishers, and six other trade organizations in an Amicus Brief supporting the DC Comics and the creators of “Jonah Hex: Riders of the Worm & Such” in their First Amendment fight against the rock duo Johnny and Edgar Winter. The new brief is filed in the Supreme Court of California, where arguments in the case will be heard on April 1. Full Story
February 28, 2003 --
2003 Jim Lee Member Cards Are In!
Jim Lee, comics' #1 artist, has provided all-new art for the CBLDF's 2003 Member Card. This art is exclusive to the CBLDF and will never be offered in another format. Click here for the full scoop!
February 28, 2003 --
Join The Century Club!
As added thank you to Fund supporters, Lee is inaugurating the CBLDF Century Club. Jim will sign Member Cards number 1 – 100 for the first hundred supporters who join or renew their membership at $100 or better. Click here to sign up!
February 28, 2003 --
More Cool Auction Items
In addition to the My Thingie auction, our friends at Slave Labor have passed along some cool signed Little Gloomy, Gloom Cookie, and Charm School comics. Jeff Smith is offering a signed hardcover copy of Bone v. 8: Treasure Hunters. We’re even offering a Green Lantern Power Ring signed by the character’s creator Martin Nodell from the Fund archives!
Support the Fund on eBay and get your shot at these one of a kind items!
February 28, 2003 --
MyThingie.com Auction Continues
It's week two of the MyThingie.com CBLDF benefit auction, which is your opportunity to support the Fund by bidding on items such as C. Scott Morse's Elektra art, plus work by Jim Mahfood, Jon Hastings, Bill Willingham, Olivia, Simon Bisley, and more!
February 20, 2003 --
Comix Experience & Slave Labor Support CBLDF
This week two Bay Area supporters have stepped up their contributions to the CBLDF with three cool auction items.
Brian Hibbs at San Francisco’s Comix Experience donated a copy of his DC RRP Exclusive edition Super Friends Batman statue. This is Batman as so many of us first met him and he’s #125 of 125. Support the Fund on eBay this week and grab on to this cool item.
Meanwhile, Slave Labor has donated twoissues of comics starring Jhonen Vasquez's Filler Bunny signed by Jhonen himself!
February 14, 2003 --
West Coast Road Report
The CBLDF was on the road for the first week of February where we met dozens of supporters and friends of the Fund at San Francisco's APE and Seattle's Emerald City Con. Read on for the Fund's convention adventures: APE parties, Matt Wagner's Seafood, Peter Bagge at the bar, and more!
February 07, 2003 --
West Coast Finds On EBay Now!
The Fund is back from APE and Emerald City Comicon and we're passing along a bunch of great items that creators donated to reward our supporters. Check these items out now on eBay.
February 07, 2003 --
CBLDF/Cartoon Art Museum Party Raises the Roof
The Cartoon Art Museum played host to the third annual joint CAM/CBLDF A.P.E. weekend fundraiser -- the most successful joint effort to date (with a 300% increase in donations compared to the 2002 fundraiser).
January 31, 2003 --
Cartoon Art Museum and CBLDF Party Like Monkeys on Saturday Night!
Saturday night the Fund is teaming up with the Cartoon Art Museum for our third annual APE Party. Everyone through the door gets entered into a raffle to win cool prizes, such as signed prints by Peter Kuper, Neil Gaiman and Craig Thompson, signed books by Gahan Wilson, Neil Gaiman, and Frank Miller, and much more!
January 31, 2003 --
Lowbrow Artwork Raises Highbrow Funds for CBLDF!
LowbrowArtwork.com has a cache of original Freak Brothers Art from the Idiots Abroad saga that they're releasing to the art market, and until March 1 they'll donate 15% of any art sale to the CBLDF!
January 22, 2003 --
Kraft Settles With King
After a year of legal maneuvers, Kraft has settled its trademark dilution suit against CBLDF defendant Stuart Helm. Full Story
January 15, 2003 --
New Auctions for 2003
Artists, collectors, and publishers are getting behind the Fund’s ongoing auction initiatives. Every week the CBLDF is proud to offer a selection of rare, cool items on eBay where the winning bids help keep the fund running strong. This week we’re offering a great selection that includes three Darkness action figures signed by Marc Silvestri; art prints by Frank Miller; Marvel statues by Diamond Select and More! These items are available until Friday when we put another set of cool pieces up. Click here every week to find out how you can bolster your collection and keep the Fund fighting!
December 24, 2002 --
Donna Barr at Modern Myths
Northampton comics fans should head to Modern Myths on Wednesday, January 15 at 6:00 PM for the Donna Barr signing and CBLDF Benefit! Indy comics legend and Desert Peach creator Donna Barr will sign books, talk about her efforts to create a new model for comics publishing, and do sketches in exchange for donations to the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. We'll also be raffling off a chance to win an appearance in one of Donna's comics, with proceeds donated to the Fund! More Info: Modern Myths
December 24, 2002 --
Comicon.Com Auction Raises $15,000 For CBLDF!
After four weeks of offerings, the Comicon.com benefit auction for the CBLDF has raised over $15,000 for this year's casework. Over 40 pieces of original art and rare merchandise were auctioned during the event, which was the Fund's most successful auction initiative of the year! Full Story
December 10, 2002 --
A Word From The Director
This week the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund sent a $10,000 retainer check to Jesus Castillo’s legal counsel to pay for the first stage of his Supreme Court appeal. We were able to do this thanks to the generous contributions raised in auctions initiated by Jim Lee, Comicon.com, and Mile High Comics. CBLDF Director Charles Brownstein recaps this season's auction activity and brings you up to speed on the Fund's year end activities. Full Story
November 19, 2002 --
Comicon.com Raises $6,700 In First Week of Auction Comicon.com’s CBLDF benefit auction is well on its way to being the CBLDF’s most important fundraising event of the year. The first week’s items closed on Thursday morning and pulled in a phemonemal $6,710! Full Story
November 19, 2002 --
Mile High Wins Jim Lee Auction for $6,700!
Chuck Rozanski, owner of Mile High Comics.com, one of the nation’s leading comic book retailers, made the winning bid of $6,700 in the auction for Jim Lee’s CBLDF In-Store Benefit Signing. Combined with Lee’s donation matching the first $2,000 of bids, this event has raised $8,700 for the Fund so far! With newly announced contests Rozanski is initiating, that total will be sure to increase well before the event begins. Click Here for Full Story
November 14, 2002 --
Comicon.com Auction to Benefit the Fund Comicon.com founders Rick Veitch and Steve Conley have assembled an
auction of over 36 striking pieces of original art and rare merchandise from members of the Comicon.com community to benefit the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. The auction will run throughout November and assists the Fund financially as it petitions the Supreme Court to hear the case of Texas v. Castillo.
The auction starts today on eBay where Fund supporters can bid on a great selection of original art, including a Frank Miller page from The Dark Knight Strikes Again; a fully painted Swamp Thing cover by Rick Veitch; an original single page Howard Cruse strip; a page from The Tale of One Bad Rat by Bryan Talbot; a Tug & Buster page by Marc Hempel; a James Sturm illustration; and an artists proof Doonesbury print by G.B. Trudeau.
For full auction info click here
November 13, 2002 --
One Bidding Day Left For Jim Lee Benefit Signing
After a week of vigorous bidding, the Jim Lee, benefit signing auction is about to close. Lee, the visionary artist of Batman and founder of WildStorm Productions, is offering retailers a chance to support the CBLDF by flying himself in for a benefit signing to the store who bids best in this week's eBay auction.
Bidding closes Friday at 11:58 am EST. The winning store will get Jim in for a signing during the first months of 2003, an original sketch, and dinner with Jim, the store contact, and five of the store's guests. The winner will also be profiled in Busted! and at least one major comic book news source. A great auction for a great cause, don't miss your chance to bid in this auction today!
November 13, 2002 --
Fund Challenges South Carolina Internet Statute
The CBLDF has joined five other artists and First Amendment groups in challenging the State of South Carolina’s “harmful to minors” Internet statute. The law “imposes severe content-based restrictions on the availability, display, and dissemination of constitutionally protected speech on the Internet by making it a crime to ‘sell, furnish, present, distribute, or allow review or perusal’ of a variety of materials in the form of ‘digital electronic files’ that are ‘harmful to minors.’ Under the Act, “harmful to minors means that quality of any material or performance that depicts sexually explicit nudity or sexual activity.”
The Fund joins the Southeast Booksellers Association; Print Studio South, Inc.; American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression; Association of American Publishers; and Families Against Internet Censorship in the complaint against Charlie Condon in his official capacity as Attorney General of South Carolina and other officials in their capacities as South Carolina Circuit Solicitors.
The CBLDF and its co-plaintiffs seek to have the Act declared unconstitutional and void and to have the State permanently enjoined from enforcing the act, by reason of the First and Fourteenth Amendments to, and the Commerce Clause of, the U.S. Constitution.
November 05, 2002 --
CBLDF To Appeal Castillo Decision To The U.S. Supreme Court
The Board of Directors of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has voted unanimously to appeal the case of Texas v. Castillo to the United States Supreme Court. This decision follows last week’s notice from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals that Castillo’s Petition for Discretionary Review was refused.
[click here for full story]
November 01, 2002 --
Second Castillo Appeal Denied
In a setback for First Amendment rights, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals has denied the Petition for Discretionary Review of the "display of obscenity" conviction of Texas comic retailer Jesus Castillo. This appeal by the attorney for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund was a second appeal; in the first, the Fifth District Court of Appeals upheld Castillo's conviction in a 2-1 decision. The notice of the denial came via postcard, dated October 23rd, to CBLDF executive director Charles Brownstein. It said only, "On this day, the Appellant's Petition for Discretionary Review has been REFUSED." The only remaining course of action is an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. The CBLDF board of directors is currently voting on whether to proceed with that appeal; a decision is expected by Monday.
Full Story at icv2.com
October 23, 2002 --
Jim Lee Benefits CBLDF
Beginning November 5, Jim Lee, founder of WildStorm Productions and one of the comic book medium's most celebrated and popular artists, will be spearheading a series of fundraisers that will benefit the CBLDF.
September 27, 2002 --
Adrian Tomine Interviewed in Boston on Friday, October 4
Nationally recognized graphic novelist Adrian Tomine will discuss his new book Summer Blonde with CBLDF Director Charles Brownstein at the Virgin Megastore in Boston on Friday, October 4. Show your CBLDF Membership Card and get a special Adrian Tomine gift, courtesy of Drawn and Quarterly.
September 27, 2002 --
Signed Kurtzman, Gaiman, Miller, and More in Benefit Auctions
Get a chance to own some history when you bid on the Fund's new e-Bay auctions. Currently live are auctions for a copy of Fun & Games signed by Harvey Kurtzman; A Walking Tour of the Shambles signed by Neil Gaiman and Gahan Wilson; Elektra Lives Again signed by Frank Miller; and much more.
September 27, 2002 --
CBLDF Joins ACLU in New Challenge to COPA
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has joined the American Civil Liberties Union and several other cyber-rights groups and publishers in trying to halt governmentally imposed censorship on the Internet.
September 17, 2002 --
Chris Staros Joins CBLDF Board of Directors
September 17 (Northampton, MA): The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF) welcomes graphic novel publisher Chris Staros as a member...
August 26, 2002 --
Milton Griepp Joins CBLDF Board of Directors
Milton Griepp has joined the Board of Directors of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. Griepp brings nearly 30 years of comics industry experience to the Fund.
July 17, 2002 --
Kraft Wins Preliminary Injunction Against Helm
CBLDF defendant Stu Helm has lost the first round in his battle against corporate censorship. Magistrate Judge Arlander Keys handed down a 32 page decision granting Kraft's request for preliminary injunction against Helm's use of the nickname "King VelVeeda."
July 17, 2002 --
Fight Censorship Like A Pro
Ennis, Conner, Palmiotti and Mounts will appear in NYC on Wednesday, July 24 at Jim Hanley's Universe and at an after-party to celebrate the release of PRO, the story of the world's first super-powered prostitute, and to benefit the CBLDF.
May 29, 2002 --
CBLDF Defends Stu Helm in Kraft Lawsuit
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund is defending Chicago cartoonist Stu Helm against Kraft Foods in a trademark dilution and infringement suit over Helm's nickname King VelVeeda.
February 08, 2002 --
Brownstein Named New CBLDF Director
The Board of Directors of the CBLDF has selected prolific comics journalist Charles Brownstein as its new Executive Director. Brownstein becomes the Fund's fourth full-time director, replacing the recently departed Chris Bleistein.
January 31, 2002 --
CBLDF Executive Direct Resigns
Chris Bleistein has resigned from the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. He had been an employee of the CBLDF more than four years, serving for the past thirteen months as the organization's Executive Director.
May 07, 2001 --
"The Pérez Archives" Project Looking for Contributions
This summer, at the 2001 San Diego Comic Con, Mangels will be presenting a special publication dubbed "The Pérez Archives," as a benefit for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.
April 15, 2001 --
Usagi Yojimbo/Mid-Ohio-Con T-shirt to benefit CBLDF
Unitl April 29, you can buy the Mid-Ohio-Con staff shirt designed by Stan Sakai for only $20, and all profits from the sale will go to the CBLDF.
March 23, 2001 --
Join Spidey and help the Fund
If you live near Los Angeles, you can help out the CBLDF and be an extra in the new Spider-Man movie! Visit Golden Apple Comics in Los Angeles on Friday, March 23rd or Monday, March 26, 2001 to get bused to the Spidey set, and production company will donate cash to the Fund.
February 21, 2001 --CBLDF
Cancels Making Waves Cruise
We regretfully announce the cancellation of the 2001 Making Waves
Cruise. This decision follows a thorough investigation by a specially
appointed committee of the CBLDF Board of Directors. The reasons:
lower cabin bookings than last year, the loss of the Big Easy Con
as a marketing partner, and of course our need to pay for two ongoing
cases. For more read
on...
Video
from the 2000 Cruise Still
wondering whether the Making Waves Cruise would have been fun? Wonder
no more. These video clips from last year's cruise will show you
just how much fun there it was for comic creators like Will Eisner
(right), Jill Thompson, Neil Gaiman, Mark Waid, and so
many more. (To view clips, you must have QuickTime
installed.)
December 16, 2000 -- Chris
Oarr Departs the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund Chris Oarr has announced that he is resigning as executive director
of the CBLDF. Oarr has steered the organization for more than three
years.
December 13, 2000 --
Trouble in Texas: Second
Charge Dismissed
The CBLDF has succeeded in having one of two charges dismissed in
a case brought against a Texas comics retailer. The store manager
was indicted on two counts of promoting obscenity for selling adult
manga (Japanese comics) to adults.
December 12, 2000 --Trouble
in Texas: UPDATE
A Texas comic shop clerk charged with two counts of obscenity for
selling adult manga comics to adults was found guilty on one count
(the trial for the second count is to come this month). An appeal
on the first count is going forward, and due to the way the case
was handled by the jury, hopes are high for a positive outcome.
November 30, 2000 -- Cartoonist
Kieron Dwyer Sued By Starbucks
The
CBLDF will be supporting cartoonist Kieron Dwyer's defense
of a suit brought against him by the Starbucks Corporation. Starbucks
is suing Dwyer for copyright and trademark infringement over a parody
of its "mermaid" logo, which Dwyer has pegged as "Consumer
Whore."
November 22, 2000 -- Trouble
in Texas: Trial Looms
A trial date has been set in the case of a Texas comic shop manager
charged with two counts of obscenity for selling adult manga comics
to adults.
October 24, 2000 -- Gaiman's
Last Angel Ascends to New Heights
NEIL GAIMAN's LAST ANGEL TOUR reaches its conclusion this week with
a reading in LOS ANGELES on OCTOBER 26. Gaiman, who read to sold-out
theatres in Chicago and New York last week, was enthusiastic about
this, his final tour. Gaiman
will be reading exclusive excerpts from his soon to be published
novel, American Gods.
PLUS--We're
featuring a manuscript auction
on eBay of Gaiman's Neverwhere to accompany the
Last Angel Tour. View some of the pages here.
October 1, 2000 --The
Last Angel Tour
In small, intimate theatres across the country, Neil Gaiman has
mesmerized audiences with poems and tales of the macabre and the
fantastic. And in the course of these tours, he has raised more
than $100,000 to support the CBLDF. But now it's the end of an era:
Gaiman has announced that for him this will be THE LAST ANGEL TOUR.
Plus: Gaiman will be reading exclusive excerpts from his
soon to be published novel, American
Gods.
September 13, 2000 -- ACLU
Sees Political Opportunism, Not Science, In Report Linking Pop Culture
and Youth Violence
"Violence is caused by the media." It's the argument you'll
be hearing all throughout the election-- and likely beyond. But
our colleagues at the American Civil Liberties Union say the report
by the Federal Trade Commission is nothing but politics, with non-scientific
research "based on inconclusive and refutable data." From
ACLU.org.
August 31, 2000 -- DC
Comics Stands Up for Its First Amendment Rights!
The Associated Press reports on a ruling filed Aug. 29, that dismissed
Charles Atlas Ltd.'s lawsuit against DC Comics over a parody of
the old Atlas bodybuilding ads.
