Thursday, September 24, 2015

2015 Baltimore Comic-Con Announces Media Guests Details

Baltimore Comic-Con Media Guests Announcements and Details

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - Join the 2015 Baltimore Comic-Con at the Baltimore Convention Center the weekend of September 25-27, 2015 for our biggest show yet. Tickets are available now for General Admission, VIP, and the Harvey Awards! We now have some additional details to release about our announced media guests, a clarification, and a couple of additions.

We are thrilled to announce that Edward James Olmos WILL be at the show for all 3 days of the weekend! Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Blade Runner, Battlestar Galactica, Miami Vice, Green Hornet, and Wolfen fans rejoice (as well as fans of his other vast body of work!).

Katie Cassidy of Arrow will still be attending the show, but will now be attending only on Sunday. We regret any inconvenience, but are thrilled that Katie was able to work her schedule to be with us on Sunday!

Raphael Sbarge (Once Upon a Time) and Ming-Na Wen (Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) will be with us Saturday only.

Paul Blackthorne of Arrow and The Dresden Files will be at the show Saturday and Sunday.

Autograph tickets and Media Guest VIP tickets can be purchased until Thursday at http://baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets.

We are also now able to provide details on photo opportunities with celebrity guests. A professional photographer will capture your moment with your favorite star! You'll receive an 8 x 10 photo printed out within minutes of your picture-taking. You may pre-purchase your photo op to avoid lining up to buy at the show by navigating to https://store.epicphotoops.com/baltimore-comic-con/2015 now.

Photo ops will be provided by Epic Photo Ops. Click here to pre-purchase. Photo ops will be located by the celebrity guests. Schedules and prices can be found by navigating through https://store.epicphotoops.com/baltimore-comic-con/2015.

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled photo op time.  Media guest schedules for the weekend are as follows:

Paul Blackthorne (Arrow, Saturday and Sunday)
Saturday:
10:00am-12:00pm - Signing
12:15pm-1:15pm - Panel
2:00pm-2:30pm - Photos
2:30pm-7:00pm - Signing
Sunday:
10am-1:00pm - Signing
2:15pm - Photos

Katie Cassidy (Arrow, Sunday only)
Sunday
10:00am-12:00pm - Signing
12:00pm-12:45pm - Panel
1:00pm-2:30pm  - Photos
2:30pm - Signing

Edward James Olmos (Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Battlestar Galactica)
Friday
2:00pm-5:30pm - Signing
5:30pm-6:00pm - Photos
6:00pm - Signing
Saturday
10:00am-1:30pm - Signing
3:30pm-4:30pm - Photos
4:30pm-7:00pm - Signing
Sunday
10:00am-1:00pm - Signing
1:00pm-2:00pm - Panel
3:00pm-3:30pm - Photos
3:30pm - Signing

Raphael Sbarge (Once Upon a Time, Saturday only)
Saturday
10:00am-11:00am - Signing
11:00am-12:00pm - Panel
12:30pm-1:30pm - BOOM! Studios booth appearance
1:30pm-4:30pm - Signing
4:30pm - Photos

Ming-Na Wen (Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Mulan, Saturday only)
Saturday
10:00am-12:30pm - Signing
1:30pm-2:30pm - Panel
2:45pm-3:30pm - Photos
3:30pm-7:00pm - Signing

Patrick Clark, a 19-year-old wrestling coach from Washington, D.C., was a competitor on WWE Tough Enough, a reality show competition for a shot as a WWE pro wrestler. Clark pursued a career in sports-entertainment after the death of his father. Clark's drive led him through 10 years of JROTC and to amateur competition wrestling for Forestville Military Academy from 2011 to 2013. Clark is currently a competitor and a coach in the Mid Atlantic Wrestling Association.

Melina Perez is one of WWE's most decorated Divas in their history! She's also considered to be one of the most unique women to ever set foot in a WWE ring. Her infamous splits entrance has captivated the WWE Universe for over 6 years, and has made her a stand out Diva. Melina moved to WWE's flagship show, becoming a Diva over the course of time, and in 2007, her hard work was rewarded with a win over Mickie James for the coveted Women's Title. Melina would go on to win the title two more times. With the demise of the Women's Title, Melina started to pursue the Divas Championship. After being drafted back to RAW, Melina defeated Jillian to win the belt. However, her reign was cut short due to a torn ACL. After eight months out of action, Melina returned and quickly regained the belt she never lost.


About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 16th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 10 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

-----------------


Robert Rodriguez Receives "Vision Award" at 28th Hispanic Heritage Awards

(Photo provided by Business Wire)

The Hershey Company Presents the Prestigious Vision Award to Robert Rodriguez at the 28th Hispanic Heritage Awards

Innovative filmmaker Robert Rodriguez accepted the Vision Award, sponsored by The Hershey Company, during the 28th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards.

HERSHEY, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) presented the Vision Award to innovative filmmaker Robert Rodriguez during the 28th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards (HHAs) on September 17th, 2015 at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C.

    “Hershey is at its best when every member of our team believes they can help us find new paths to growth and success”

The Hershey Company is a Medallion Sponsor of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, an organization that honors notable Latinos who have distinguished themselves in various fields and made a positive difference in the U.S. and globally. The Hispanic Heritage Foundation Awards are considered the highest honor “for Latinos by Latinos.”

Robert Rodriguez is a film director, screenwriter, producer, cinematographer, editor and musician and founder and Chairman of El Rey Network, the genre-busting English-language cable network.

His first feature film, “El Mariachi,” was made for $7,000 and won the Audience Award at the 1993 Sundance Film Festival. It became the lowest budget movie ever released by a major studio and Rodriguez went on to write, produce, direct and edit numerous successful films including, “Desperado,” “From Dusk Till Dawn,” “The Faculty,” and the “Spy Kids” franchise.

“We are proud to have presented the Vision Award to Robert Rodriguez who embodies the spirit of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s mission and work,” said Javier Idrovo, Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer at The Hershey Company. “Hershey is dedicated to the Latino community and providing great career opportunities for Latinos.”

Milton Hershey made his mark hiring employees from diverse backgrounds from the earliest days of the company. He saw diversity of perspectives as a source of strength. Today, Hershey has teams of people throughout the organization with unique talents and diverse perspectives, which drives innovative thinking and success.

“Hershey is at its best when every member of our team believes they can help us find new paths to growth and success,” added Idrovo.

To learn more about The Hershey Company’s Corporate Social Responsibility efforts please visit: http://www.thehersheycompany.com/social-responsibility.aspx


About The Hershey Company
The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY), headquartered in Hershey, Pa., is a global confectionery leader known for bringing goodness to the world through its chocolate, sweets, mints and other great-tasting snacks. Hershey has more than 22,000 employees around the world who work every day to deliver delicious, quality products. The company, which has more than 80 brands around the world that drive over $7.4 billion in annual revenues, includes such iconic brand names as Hershey's, Reese's, Hershey's Kisses, Jolly Rancher, Ice Breakers and Brookside. Hershey is focused on growing its presence in key international markets while continuing to build its competitive advantage in North America. Additionally, Hershey is expanding its portfolio into categories beyond confectionery, finding new ways to bring goodness to people everywhere.

At Hershey, goodness has always been about more than delicious products. For 120 years, Hershey has been committed to good business by operating fairly, ethically and sustainably to make a positive impact on society. This means contributing to a better life for its employees, consumers, communities, and, ultimately, creating a bright future for children in need. This commitment is exemplified by Milton Hershey School, established in 1909 by the company's founder and administered by Hershey Trust Company. The children who attend the school receive education, housing, and medical care — thriving as direct beneficiaries of The Hershey Company's success.

--------------------


Masashi Kishimoto and Naruto Tour NYC for New York Comic Con 2015

VIZ MEDIA WELCOMES RENOWNED NARUTO MANGA CREATOR, MASASHI KISHIMOTO, FOR SPECIAL APPEARANCES AT NEW YORK COMIC CON 2015

Creator Of Bestselling Ninja Action Series Makes His First U.S. Appearance During New York Super Week And Comic Con For Autograph Sessions, Panel Discussions And Theatrical Premiere

San Francisco, CA – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest publisher, distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, in partnership with The Japan Foundation and ReedPOP, prepares to welcome iconic manga artist Masashi Kishimoto, the renowned creator of the NARUTO manga (graphic novel) saga, for a series of very special appearances during the upcoming 2015 New York Comic Con.

VIZ Media will exhibit at New York Comic Con in Booth #1346 and will offer a wide array of exclusive NARUTO manga and anime products for purchase throughout the convention. In response to overwhelming fan interest, VIZ Media is also pleased to announce the addition of one more autograph session for Masashi Kishimoto on Thursday, October 8th, 2015 at the Javits Center.

Interested NY Comic Con attendees may pick up a raffle ticket at the VIZ Media booth between 10:00am and 1:00pm on Thursday October 8th for a chance to win 1 of 100 available wristbands to attend the signing later that day. Please visit the VIZ Media booth for the winning ticket drawing time and additional details.

Masashi Kishimoto also complements his first ever U.S. professional appearances with a pair of autograph sessions and in-store appearances during New York Super Week, co-sponsored by the Japan Foundation. These appearances will take place at the Manhattan locations of Kinokuniya Bookstore and Barnes & Noble Tribeca, on October 9th and 10th, 2015, respectively. Full details are available at: http://www.newyorksuperweek.com.

New York Comic Con is the crown jewel of New York Super Week and takes place October 8-11, 2015 at the Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. Kishimoto will headline a special panel on Thursday, October 8th focusing on his work and hit manga series, NARUTO. On Saturday, October 11th, 2015, Kishimoto will deliver some opening comments before the highly anticipated North American theatrical premiere of BORUTO: NARUTO THE MOVIE.

Masashi Kishimoto 2015 New York Comic Con Appearances:

VIZ Media Presents: An Evening with Masashi Kishimoto
Thursday, October 8th, 5:30PM – 6:30PM
Main Stage 1-D

The creator of the global phenomenon known as Naruto makes his first appearance outside Japan! The legendary Kishimoto Sensei will discuss his career and creative process and answer questions about his work. Attendees will also have a chance to win some very special prizes. This panel of a lifetime is brought to you in partnership with the Japan Foundation.

VIZ Media Presents: BORUTO: NARUTO THE MOVIE Premiere
Saturday, October 10th, 11:30AM – 2:00PM
Hammerstein Ballroom – 311 W. 43th St.

Masashi Kishimoto, creator of Naruto, makes his Executive Producer debut and will introduce the North American English-subtitled premiere of the most anticipated Naruto movie yet! Naruto Uzumaki protects the Hidden Leaf Village as the 7th Hokage, while Boruto, his troublesome son resents his father's responsibilities that take his time away from him. Seeing this, Sasuke takes Boruto under his wing, while Sasuke's only daughter, Sarada, dreams of being Hokage one day. This panel of a lifetime is brought to you in partnership with the Japan Foundation.

Come early - the first 100 attendees in line for BORUTO: NARUTO THE MOVIE will get to attend a special Saturday signing session at 10am with Masashi Kishimoto!

Masashi Kishimoto 2015 New York Super Week Appearances:

Masashi Kishimoto Kinokuniya Signing Event
Friday, Oct. 9th, 8:30pm
Kinokuniya Book Store, 1073 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10018

Meet Masashi Kishimoto, creator of NARUTO, the best-selling manga series that inspired a generation of fans around the world and spawned hit anime series, movies, video games, novels and more. This event is an extremely rare opportunity to see the legendary Kishimoto in his first public appearances outside of Japan.

All participants must secure a SuperWeek event ticket. NARUTO Volume 72, featuring an exclusive New York Comic Con variant cover drawn by Kishimoto, will be available for purchase. Attendees will receive a free autographed Shikishi art board with purchase of one of Kishimoto’s works. (*Note: Kishimoto will only sign the provided shikishi and on-site purchased book.)

Masashi Kishimoto Barnes & Noble Tribeca Signing Event
Saturday, Oct. 10th, 3:30pm
Barnes & Noble Tribeca, 97 Warren St., New York, NY 10007

Masashi Kishimoto makes his second appearance for New York Super Week at the Barnes & Noble Tribeca location. This signing will be limited to the first 110 customers that purchase one of Kishimoto’s works the day of the event; NARUTO Volume 72 featuring an exclusive New York Comic Con variant cover drawn by Kishimoto will also be available for purchase at this venue. Each person will receive an exclusive shikishi art board signed personally signed by the artist. (*Note: Kishimoto will only sign the provided shikishi and on-site purchased book.)

Masashi Kishimoto was born in 1974 in rural Okayama Prefecture, Japan. His first version of NARUTO, drawn in 1997, was a one-shot story about fox spirits; his final version, which debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1999, quickly became the most popular ninja manga in the world. The series spawned multiple anime series, movies, novels, video games and more. Having concluded the series in late 2014, he has kept himself busy with the side-story Naruto: The Seventh Hokage and the Scarlet Spring and with writing the story for the latest Naruto movie, both of which will focus on the title character’s son, Boruto. The NARUTO manga series is published in North America by VIZ Media.

For more information on NARUTO manga and anime titles published by VIZ Media, please visit VIZ.com/naruto.


About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan.  Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular digital manga anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and ONE PIECE, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages.  VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products.  Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.

-----------------------

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

VIZ Media Announces DVD Release of Bleach Anime Finale

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES THE HOME MEDIA RELEASE OF THE ANIME SERIES FINALE OF BLEACH

Catch The Exciting Climax Of The Hit Supernatural Action Series With Final Episodes Available This Month On New DVD Home Media Edition

San Francisco, CA – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest publisher, distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, brings one of Japan’s most celebrated anime series to an exhilarating conclusion as it announces the home media release of the final BLEACH DVD Box Set Edition on September 29th, 2015.

BLEACH Set 26 contains 2-discs with the climactic final 12 episodes (355-366) of the series about the adventures of a clairvoyant teenager. Content is available with dialogue selections for dubbed English as well as subtitled, Japanese 2.0 audio, with episodes presented in 16x9 video. The set will carry an MSRP of $44.82 U.S. / $51.99 CAN.

In the final episodes, Ichigo begins training under Ginjo in order to develop his Fullbring powers, while Orihime and Chad discuss what little they know about Tsukishima and Uryu begins his own investigation into the attacks. Once his training is complete, Ichigo returns home, only to find that his family and friends have accepted Tsukishima as if they've known him for years. Confused and shaken, Ichigo goes to the one person he thinks he can rely on, but with everyone turning on him, who remains to be trusted? Find out in the anime's final chapter!

The BLEACH animated films and TV series (distributed in North America by VIZ Media, rated ‘TV-14’) are based on a smash hit manga series created by Tite Kubo (also published in North America by VIZ Media, rated ‘T’ for Teens) that follows the adventures of Ichigo, a 15-year old student with the ability to see ghosts. When his family is attacked by a Hollow – a malevolent lost soul – Ichigo encounters Rukia, a Soul Reaper, and inadvertently absorbs her powers. Now, he’s dedicating his life to protecting the innocent and helping tortured souls find peace.

For more information on BLEACH manga and anime titles published by VIZ Media, please visit www.viz.com.


About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan.  Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular digital manga anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and ONE PIECE, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages.  VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products.  Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.

----------------


Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Bluefin Reveals Samurai Influenced "Star Wars" Figures



BLUEFIN ANNOUNCES EXCITING NEW ADDITIONS TO MEISHO MOVIE REALIZATION STAR WARS LINE OF FIGURES FROM TAMASHII NATIONS

Highly Detailed Figures Incorporate Japanese Samurai Aesthetic; Pre-Orders Open For “Ronin” Boba Fett, “Daisho” Darth Vader, “Teppou Ashigaru” Sandtrooper and “Akazonae” Imperial Guard; “Taisho” Darth Vader And “Ashigaru” Stormtrooper Figures

Available Now!!

Irvine, CA – Bluefin, the leading North American distributor of toys, collectibles, and hobby merchandise from Japan, Hong Kong and more, offers Star Wars fans and ardent collectors something unique as it highlights a variety of super-detailed figures from the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars line by Tamashii Nations.

The Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars line pays homage to the Samurai aesthetic and artfully reimagines several Empire characters from the legendary films with feudal-style Japanese armor and weaponry. Each figure is exquisitely crafted by some of Japan's top sculpting talent and constructed with hybrid materials featuring up to 15 points of articulation to create endless posing possibilities.

The newest addition to the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars product line is the “Ronin” Boba Fett, which debuts in December and depicts the intergalactic bounty hunter as a “lordless” Samurai warrior via the sculpting talent of artists Takeyuki Takeya and Junichi Taniguchi. The “Daisho” Darth Vader depicts the Dark Sith Lord as a Samurai General clad in sinister black “Death Star” armor and will debut in January 2016. It will be followed in May 2016 by the imposing Akazonae Royal Guard, outfitted with a Japanese-style katana and pike and resplendent in beautiful crimson-robed armor. Pre-orders for these figures are available now.

Fans that want to dive into the Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars line immediately can select from a trio of figures – available now – that includes the “Ashigaru” Stormtrooper, and the Samurai General “Taisho” Darth Vader. Each is clad in a unique set of armor and comes with an array of weapons and other accessories.

Meisho Movie Realization “Ronin” Boba Fett
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available December!

Everyone's favorite bounty hunter goes medieval! Boba Fett joins the Meisho Movie realization series in a spectacular feudal Japan aesthetic, appropriately portrayed as a lord-less “Ronin” Samurai via the sculpting talent of artists Takeyuki Takeya and Junichi Taniguchi. In addition to his EE-3 rifle portrayed as an flint-lock style blaster, this deluxe figure set features an extensive array of accessories that includes a characteristic backpack missile that can be removed/attached, and a moveable helmet mounted scope. In addition to a short ninja-style katana and sheath, numerous ninja-style blade accessories that are also included can be subtly attached to shin and forearm area mounting points.






Meisho Movie Realization Samurai General “Daisho” Darth Vader
Height: Approx. 7 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available: January 2016

The greatly popular Samurai General Darth Vader makes a comeback in an all new Death Star motif. Another stunningly unique artistic interpretation master crafted by acclaimed artist Takeya Takayuki, Darth Vader - Death Star Armor - has a revamped armor design. Most notable is the fearsome Death Star-style crest on the helmet and highly detailed chest plate pattern. Set includes interchangeable hands, gun (large, small), and katana sword (light saber and regular).

Meisho Movie Realization “Teppou Ashigaru” Sandtrooper
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available: March 2016

The third figure to join this unique series is the artillery packed Teppo Ashigaru Sandtrooper! The Sandtrooper version comes with two gun powder type rifles and a Japanese katana sword ready for battle. A special backpack is designed with meticulous detail and finished with a rusty patina look. Flexible material makes posing the Sandtrooper holding a firearm a breeze. The set includes three sets of interchangeable hands, blaster rifles (small and large), a Japanese katana set, and backpack.   

Meisho Movie Realization “Akazonae” Royal Guard
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $89.99
Available: May 2016

The imposing crimson-robed Akazonae Royal Guards are next to join the Samurai General’s side in this high-quality Japanese feudal take on the Star Wars legacy. The Akazonae Royal Guard comes wielding not only the iconic force pike-esque staff, but a traditional Japanese-style katana as well. The front robe pieces are removable, giving the option of displaying the Guard in a samurai armor fashion. For further nuanced posing, the Akazonae Royal Guard set also includes interchangeable hands. The unique use of “wa,” Japanese style also makes for a one of a kind sculpt design that fans cannot find anywhere else.

The following Meisho Movie Realization Star Wars products are available now through various retailers:

Meisho Movie Realization Samurai General “Taisho” Darth Vader
Height: Approx. 7 inches; MSRP: $92.99
Available Now!

An exquisitely rendered figure of Darth Vader portrayed as a Japan feudal era Samurai General. A unique artistic interpretation master crafted by acclaimed artist Takeya Takayuki, this original stylized figure pays homage to the Japan aesthetic and film influences on Star Wars. Tamashii Nations' Movie Realization brand takes the theme of movies and infuses that concept into high quality figures. And the secret ingredient? All figures have an added pinch of "wa" (Japanese style) that makes for a one and only, unique design – from the tip of his sharp lightsaber-turned-katana to the meticulously sculpted Samurai-esque armor. Look closely at Vader’s helmet and one will notice the Imperial insignia arranged in elaborate “wa” style. Set includes two interchangeable lightsaber parts and 3 sets of interchangeable hands perfect for posing the Samurai-styled Sith Lord as he manipulates the Force.

Meisho Movie Realization “Ashigaru” Stormtrooper
Height: Approx. 6 3/4 inches; MSRP: $81.99
Available Now!

In this interpretation, Samurai Vader's foot soldiers of the Empire come clad in far-gone Japanese feudal era attire and armament. The exquisite figure has been master crafted by Japan's top sculpting talent and features hybrid materials used for dynamic posing possibilities Set includes katana and blaster rifle accessories, as well as three sets of interchangeable hand parts.


About Bluefin
Based in Irvine, CA, Bluefin built its reputation as a leading distributor of Japanese toys, collectibles, novelty and hobby products. In recent years, Bluefin has grown to include a range of high quality collectible lines from the United States, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore and established itself as the official North American consumer products and retail development partner for Studio Ghibli. Selling to thousands of specialty, chain and independent stores, Bluefin is an official North American distributor for Bandai Hobby, Kotobukiya and Capcom, is the sole provider of Bandai Tamashii Nations products, and is also the exclusive and official distributor for Hero Cross, Beast Kingdom, Comicave, Mr. Hobby, Groove’s Pullip dolls, SEN-TI-NEL and X-Plus. Bluefin also represents TruForce Collectibles products worldwide. Additional information is available at: www.bluefincorp.com.

----------------------------


Vivek J. Tiwary Hosts "The Harvey Awards" at 2015 Baltimore Comic Con


Join the Comics Industry at The Harvey Awards

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - People can attend, on the evening of Saturday, September 26, 2015, the Harvey Award Ceremony and participate in an experience like none other in Comic Fandom. Attendees will have an opportunity to see Harvey Awards nominees, along with some of the top talent in the industry. The Harvey Awards ceremony will honor the award recipients and induct two creators into the Harvey Kurtzman Hall of Fame. In addition, The Hero Initiative will present their annual awards.

Harvey Awards tickets are on sale NOW! Tickets to the event, which includes a full cocktail hour (cash bar), full service dinner (featuring a Baltimore Crabcake!), the awards ceremony, and a gift bag, are now available for $125. Tickets are available at our website via credit card at baltimorecomiccon.com/tickets.

Following a cocktail hour where you can rub elbows with industry professionals and fans alike, this exciting evening will be highlighted by our host Vivek J. Tiwary, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, Tony Award-winning Broadway producer, and the founder of multi-platform arts and entertainment company Tiwary Entertainment Group.

Vivek will welcome our presenters to the stage, including comics professional like Darwyn Cooke, Mike Gold, David Petersen, Sara Richard, Mark Waid, and Marv Wolfman.

In addition, you will be witness to the honoring of legendary comics talent being recognized for their contributions to the industry. The Hall of Fame inductees will be Will Eisner, represented by Carl and Nancy Gropper, and Jules Feiffer. From The Hero Initiative, the 2015 Hero Lifetime Achievement award will be presented to Russ Heath, and the Giordano Humanitarian recipient is Denis Kitchen. Attendees can join in honoring this legendary group!

The Harvey Awards are also pleased to present a gift bag to the first 300 attendees purchasing tickets for this comic event of the fall. This year's gift bag is a wonderful collection of books, including such treasures as Wally Wood's EC Stories Artisan Edition from IDW, The Fifth Beatle Collector's Edition from Dark Horse, 3 Pen & Ink (Hit, George Perez's Sirens, and Day Men) editions from BOOM! Studios, and a beautiful Jules Feiffer Art Print from Abrams ComicArts. In addition to these wonderful books, expect contributions from other publishers as well, including DC Entertainment, Valiant Entertainment, and Archie Comics.


About The Baltimore Comic-Con
The Baltimore Comic-Con is celebrating its 16th year of bringing the comic book industry to the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area. For more information, please visit www.baltimorecomiccon.com.

About The Harvey Awards
The Harvey Awards are one of the comic book industry's oldest and most respected awards. With a history of over 20 years, the last 10 in conjunction with the Baltimore Comic-Con, the Harveys recognize outstanding achievements in over 20 categories. They are the only industry awards nominated and selected by the full body of comic book professionals. For more information, please visit www.harveyawards.org.

------------------


2015 BET "Hip Hop Awards" Nominations Announced; Plus, Uncle Scoop is Back!

Uncle Snoop Returns to the Biggest Stage in Hip Hop to Host the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015 Premiering Tuesday, October 13th at 8:00 P.M.*

Drake Leads the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015 Nominations for a Second Year in a Row with Twelve Nominations Including Album of the Year; Followed by Big Sean with Ten Nominations; Nicki Minaj Scores Nine Nods; Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole Tie with Eight Nods

Taping at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, GA

#HIPHOPAWARDS

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Third time’s the charm as entertainment icon Snoop Dogg aka Uncle Snoop and BET Networks team up again for the biggest night of hip hop, electrifying cyphers, powerful performances and legendary tributes that encompass the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015! Highly respected with more than 20 years in the industry, Uncle Snoop continues to set trends and pave the way for both new and established artists. At last year’s “Hip Hop Awards,” Uncle Snoop wowed the audience with his hilarious monologue and skits as well as witty, OG banter throughout the show. An entertainment icon, Snoop is affectionately known as Uncle Snoop in the music industry for the leadership and guidance he provides to both established and up and coming artists. With more than 20 years in the business, Uncle Snoop has become an international name for his work in music, film, entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

    “We’re gonna do it big with more surprises and more performances—you’re not gonna wanna miss this!”

“With the huge success of the first two shows, I'm excited to host my third BET ‘Hip Hop Awards’ this year,” said Uncle Snoop. “We’re gonna do it big with more surprises and more performances—you’re not gonna wanna miss this!”

For a second year in a row, Drake leads the BET “Hip Hop Awards” 2015 with twelve impressive nominations for ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘MVP of the Year,’ ‘Album of the Year,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ ‘Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip Hop Style)’ and as a featured artist for two ‘Sweet 16: Best Featured verses,’ ‘Best Hip Hop Video,’ two ‘Best Hip Collabo, Duo or Group’ and ‘People’s Champ Award’ nods. Followed by Big Sean with 10 nominations; Nicki Minaj with 9 nominations; Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole in a close tie with eight nods.

The awards will be taped on Friday, October 9, 2015 at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, GA for the tenth year running, and will premiere on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 at 8:00 p.m. ET.

Sprite® returns as a sponsor of the BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 2015, presenting in part the always noteworthy cyphers along with MetroPCS, as well as the “green” carpet. Also returning is the “I Am Hip Hop” Award, recognizing an individual who has made a profound imprint on hip hop music and culture throughout the years.

Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment will serve as Executive Producer of The BET Hip Hop Awards along with Stephen G. Hill; BET’s President of Programming; Connie Orlando, BET’s Senior Vice President of Music and Specials; and Lynne Harris Taylor, BET’s Vice President of Specials.

The complete list of BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” ’15 Official Nominees:

Best Hip Hop Video
Big Sean F/ Chris Brown & Ty Dolla $ign - Play No Games
Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West - Blessings
Fetty Wap - Trap Queen
Kendrick Lamar - Alright
Nicki Minaj F/ Beyoncé - Feeling Myself

Best Collabo, Duo or Group
Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West - Blessings
Big Sean F/ E-40 - IDFWU
Fetty Wap F/ Monty - My Way
Nicki Minaj F/ Beyoncé - Feeling Myself
Nicki Minaj F/ Drake & Lil Wayne - Truffle Butter

Best Live Performer
Drake
J. Cole
Kanye West
Kendrick Lamar
Nicki Minaj

Lyricist of the Year
Big Sean
Drake
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
Nicki Minaj

Video Director of the Year
Alan Ferguson
Benny Boom
Chris Robinson/Lil Chris
Colin Tilley
Director X

DJ of the Year
DJ Drama
DJ Envy
DJ Esco
DJ Khaled
DJ Mustard

Producer of the Year
DJ Mustard
J. Cole
Kanye West
Mike Will Made-It
Pharrell Williams
Timbaland

MVP of the Year
Big Sean
Drake
Future
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
Nicki Minaj

Track Of The Year
Alright – Produced By Pharrell Williams & Sounwave (Kendrick Lamar)
Blessings – Produced By Boi-1da & Vinylz (Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West)
Commas – Produced By DJ Spinz & Southside (Future)
IDFWU – Produced By DJ Dahi, DJ Mustard, Kanye West & Key Wane (Big Sean F/ E-40)
Trap Queen – Produced By Tony Fadd (Fetty Wap)

Album Of The Year
Big Sean – Dark Sky Paradise
Drake – If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late
J. Cole – 2014 Forest Hills Drive
Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp A Butterfly
Nicki Minaj - The Pinkprint
Wale – The Album About Nothing

Who Blew Up Award
Bobby Shmurda
Dej Loaf
Fetty Wap
Rae Sremmurd
Tink

Hustler Of The Year
Dr. Dre
Drake
J. Cole
Jay Z
Nicki Minaj

Made-You-Look Award (Best Hip Hop Style)
A$AP Rocky
Dej Loaf
Drake
Kanye West
Nicki Minaj

Best Hip Hop Online Site
Allhiphop.Com
Complex.Com
Hotnewhiphop.Com
Rapradar.Com
Worldstarhiphop.Com

Best Club Banger
Big Sean F/ E-40 – IDFWU (Produced By DJ Dahi, DJ Mustard, Kanye West & Key Wane)
Dej Loaf – Try Me (Produced By Dds)
Fetty Wap – Trap Queen (Produced By Tony Fadd)
Future – Commas (Produced By DJ Spinz & Southside)
Rich Homie Quan – Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh) (Produced By DJ Spinz & Nitti Beatz)

Best Mixtape
Future – 56 Nights
Future – Beast Mode
Future – Monster
Lil Wayne – Sorry 4 The Wait 2
Travis Scott – Days Before Rodeo

Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse
Drake – Blessings (Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West)
Drake – My Way Remix (Fetty Wap F/ Drake)
E-40 – IDFWU (Big Sean F/ E-40)
Kendrick Lamar – Classic Man Remix (Jidenna F/ Kendrick Lamar)
Lil Wayne – Truffle Butter (Nicki Minaj F/ Drake & Lil Wayne)

Impact Track
Big Sean F/ Kanye West & John Legend – One Man Can Change The World
Common & John Legend – Glory (From The Motion Picture “Selma”)
J. Cole – Apparently
J. Cole – Be Free
Kendrick Lamar – Alright

People’s Champ Award
Big Sean F/ Drake & Kanye West – Blessings
Fetty Wap – Trap Queen
Future – Commas
Kendrick Lamar – i
Rae Sremmurd – No Type
Rich Homie Quan – Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)

Join the conversation on social media by logging on to BET’s multiple social media platforms:

    On BET.com: http://www.bet.com/shows/hip-hop-awards.html
    On Twitter by using hashtag: #HipHopAwards; follow us @HipHopAwards and @BET
    On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/HipHopAwards

Follow Snoop Dogg on Twitter (@SnoopDogg), Instagram (@SnoopDogg), Facebook.com/SnoopDogg, YouTube.com/WestFestTV and SnoopDogg.com.

*Note: BET “Hip Hop Awards” is a private event and tickets are not available for purchase to the public. Talent tickets are reserved for BET “Hip Hop Awards” show talent and nominees.


ABOUT BET NETWORKS:
BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation’s leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.

ABOUT BET “HIP HOP AWARDS”:
BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET Networks delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force.

ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT:
Jesse Collins Entertainment is a full service television and film production company founded by entertainment industry veteran Jesse Collins. For more than a decade, Collins, the company’s CEO, has played an integral role in producing some of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. Formerly Executive Producer/EVP of Cossette Productions, Collins has produced ground-breaking and award winning television programming including the BET Awards, the GRAMMY Awards, BET Honors, The UNCF Evening of Stars and the BET Hip Hop Awards. Collins currently Exec. Produces “The Real Husbands of Hollywood,” (now going into its 4th hit season) alongside industry Icons Stan Lathan and Ralph Farquhar; and has worked with superstar talent such as Will Smith, Chris Rock, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Prince, Mariah Carey and many more.

ABOUT SNOOP DOGG AKA UNCLE SNOOP:
An entertainment icon and with more than 20 years in the business, Snoop continues to pave the way in the hip-hop industry, serving as a mentor to many new and established artists. Snoop stands at the forefront of popular culture with award-winning and multi-platinum albums and songs, critically acclaimed films and television shows, lifestyle products, philanthropic efforts and tech and digital ventures, including his YouTube original series “GGN News,” and his best-selling app, Snoopify. Snoop defines hip-hop history. He’s set records with his seminal album Doggystyle, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over 800,000 copies in the first week. Throughout his career, Snoop’s produced chart-topping hits including “Gin & Juice,” “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?),” “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang,” “Next Episode,” “Beautiful,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Signs,” “Sensual Seduction” and “I Wanna Rock.” BUSH, Snoop’s latest album via Columbia Records and executive produced by Pharrell Williams, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Album Chart, marking Snoop’s sixth chart topping hit. Snoop’s non-profit work in the community is commendable, as he established the Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) in 2005 to give children between the ages of five and 13 the opportunity to participate in youth football and cheer. SYFL teaches them the values of teamwork, good sportsmanship, discipline, and academics.

Follow us @BET_PR

--------------------