A Lions, Tigers and Bears volume I trade paperback second printing, and The Phantom #12, can both be found in the July cover dated Previews Magazine. Be sure to check out the Image and Moonstone sections of the newest Previews Magazine, and let your comic retailer know you want the 2nd printing of the LTBv1 trade and The Phantom #12!

Newest Runemaster, Paul “Gutz” Gutierrez joins writer Mike Bullock at the Image Comics’ booth (#2729), on Friday, June 21, 2006, from 11:45am - 12:45pm, and again on Saturday, July 22, 2006, from 4:45 - 5:45pm. Gutierrez will be doing sketches, as well as giving visitors a sneak peak of Lions, Tigers and Bears Volume II #3. Make a point to come on by and see us!

The first issue features two covers, one by series artist Jack Lawrence and the other by Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man artist Mike Wieringo. Get on down to your local comic shop today, and be sure to pick them up!

Jack Lawrence and Mike Bullock Land New Gigs. Jack Lawrence has recently been named sole artist on Panini Comics’ Action Man: A.T.O.M! A new issue hits stores every three weeks, so if you’re in the UK, swing by your local comic shop and pick one up! Meanwhile, Mike Bullock has recently taken over the writing helm of Moonstone Books’ The Phantom. Bullock’s first issue, The Phantom #12, is scheduled to ship in May. Make sure to preorder your copy now!

Ever wanted to get snatched by a Beastie? Ever had the desire to appear in a comic book? Well, the folks at Runemaster Studios, Inc. and Image Comics are giving you the chance to be the next victim of the vile Beasties in their newest contest.

We're looking for someone to willing to be captured by a Beastie. Here's your chance to be immortalized in an issue of Lions, Tigers and Bears. All you need to do is send in a picture of you or someone you know being defended by a stuffed animal; preferably pictures featuring kids between the ages of five and twelve, but if you don't have any pictures from that age, send what you can and you still might win.

By entering this contest, you agree to allow Image Comics and Runemaster Studios, Inc to put your likeness in an issue of Lions, Tigers and Bears Vol. II, shipping to comic stores worldwide in mid-2006. All entries become the property of Runemaster Studios, Inc. and no pictures can be returned.

You're also agreeing to let the Beasties snatch you, so be brave!

Entries must be received by Runemaster Studios, Inc. no later than January 1^st, 2006. Contestants can send their entries electronically to contest@runemasterstudios.com

The best picture will be chosen by Team Lions, Tigers and Bears and used as reference to put you in a comic. The winner will receive a complete signed set of Lions, Tigers and Bears v2, as well as a signed copy of the first Lions, Tigers and Bears trade paperback.

So get out those cameras, dig through those photo albums, and get those pictures coming. Make sure to include your name and mailing address in your email entry. The winner will receive the prize package in summer of 2006.

Union Entertainment, a company best known for feature films such as “GODSEND” and video games such as “THE DARKNESS,” has set its sights on Runemaster Studios and their properties “LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS” AND “THE GIMOLES,” with the intent of bringing both properties to movie theaters and game consoles in the near future.

“It is rare to find properties which are as directly translatable to film and video games as ‘LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS’ and ‘THE GIMOLES,’” said Union President, Sean O’Keefe. “Not only are both comics conceptually compelling, but Mike Bullock’s sophistication as a storyteller has provided bedrock themes and story architectures in both properties that we can easily build on for film. As far as developing video games, both comics offer rich universes to explore as well as imaginative characters from which we can invent exciting new modes of gameplay.”

While most production companies are only involved in either the film or game side of property development, Union Entertainment is one of the first of a new breed of entertainment companies to jointly cultivate both hand-in-hand. All too often a video game will arrive based on a movie or vice versa and the secondary product will be inferior to the first. By producing games and films in a rather sibling-like fashion, Union Entertainment can ensure that each is true to the source material while complimenting one another in a fashion that most joint game/film ventures fail to achieve.

“With Union Entertainment, not only do we feel our vision will remain untainted, we’re also assured that by developing the games and movies simultaneously, both will grow into strong products,” stated Mike Bullock, author of “LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS” and “THE GIMOLES.” “We’ve had quite a few offers of this and that ever since our books first debuted. Why did we choose Union over the others? Simply put, Union Entertainment provides a synergistic combination of vision, expertise and unbridled passion for our properties. What more could we ask for?”

Union Entertainment is currently assembling production teams for both properties; expect more announcements in the coming months.

More information on Sean O’Keefe, Richard Leibowitz and Union Entertainment, its partners, properties and services can be found at www.unionent.com.

When Runemaster Studios went searching for a home for the second series of their wildly popular LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS, the offers stacked up just as rapidly as they had for the first series. However, history has a way of repeating itself and the heroes of the Stuffed Animal Kingdom have once again found themselves under the banner of Image Comics.

"There really is no way around it, LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS was always destined to be an Image book," said series writer/co-creator Mike Bullock. "Jack and I are just thrilled that we’ve been given the chance to keep it that way."

With all the excitement around this property, from the ten-week stint in the Arizona Republic (where an all-new story was introduced to hundreds of thousands of new readers every Sunday), to the downloadable version for the Sony Playstation Portable (PSP), to the multitude of accolades and critical acclaim, the denizens of the Stuffed Animal Kingdom have certainly made their mark.

"People have asked why I'm happy to be back at Image. My answer? Well, y'know, it's IMAGE," exclaimed artist/co-creator Jack Lawrence. I was 16 when they launched, and the memory of that stands out as a benchmark in my life as a budding comic creator. I devoured everything they put out back then, but if anything, I think now is a more exciting time to be at Image than any other. Professionalism, honesty, and bloody good books. That's all you need, isn't it? And Image has all that in spades."

Image Comics is equally pleased to bring the hit series back to their readers and is confidant the second series will meet with even greater success than the first.

"Readers of all ages have responded positively to LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS. It's fun for young and old," said Image Publisher, Erik Larsen. "The response to the book has been very heartfelt and enthusiastic. The first chapter of LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS was just the beginning. Readers will be astounded to read the next exciting adventure. It's like nothing else on the stands."

As a primer for new readers and a treat for existing ones, Image will be releasing a new version of the first LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS trade paperback in the month preceding the release of Volume II, #1. A bonus six page story and new pinups will flesh out the larger, second printing of the trade.

Letterer Dave Lanphear and Editor Ron Marz will also be on board for the next adventure in the Stuffed Animal Kingdom.

Runemaster Studios, Inc. has announced that it is severing ties with Alias Enterprises, effective immediately. Runemaster's partnership with Alias produced the sold-out mini-series Lions, Tigers and Bears, published through Image comics, as well as the debut issue of The Gimoles. The trade paperback collection of Lions, Tigers and Bears, also produced in partnership with Alias, sold out of its initial printing.

“Our relationship with Alias initially seemed like a match made in heaven,” stated Runemaster’s President Mike Bullock. “However, the current direction Alias is pursuing no longer fits with our vision for Runemaster Studios, so we have no choice but to part ways.”

According to Bullock, Runemaster is terminating the licensing agreements for Lions, Tigers and Bears and The Gimoles for cause, due to material breaches committed by Alias.

“It's unfortunate the situation has come to this,” Bullock said. “We’ve exhausted every avenue of reconciling our differences with Alias and securing what is owed to us. This is a last resort, but we've been left with no other option.”

As for the future of Runemaster’s properties, a new publisher has already been secured for a second Lions, Tigers and Bears mini-series, with the first issue of the series already nearing completion. Fans can expect to see it in stores in early 2006. The Gimoles #2 was delivered to Alias in mid-July for release in August, but has yet to appear in stores. According to Bullock, Runemaster has yet to receive a satisfactory explanation from Alias for the delay, nor has a new release date been established.

“It's frustrating. I'd like to personally apologize to the fans who supported us by picking up the first issue of The Gimoles,” Bullock said. “This is something that's out of our hands right now, but I promise you, the story will be finished, one way or another.”

In an ongoing campaign of charitable activities, Runemaster Studios, Inc. has just placed a large collection of Runemaster related items on eBay, with all proceeds from the auction going directly to Sharing Down Syndrome Arizona, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals afflicted with Down Syndrome.

Having donated hundreds of comics to local libraries, one story to the Arizona Public Library’s Children’s Literacy Program, two stories to Ronin Studios’ Hope: A Tsunami Relief Anthology and a previous eBay auction to benefit children with Rett Syndrome, Runemaster Studios is no stranger to charitable events and hopes the successes of previous endeavors carries through on their latest efforts.

Interested bidders can find this auction at the following link: eBay Charity Auction.

The first printing of Runemaster Studios’ Lions, Tigers and Bears Vol I trade paperback has officially SOLD OUT from Diamond Comic Distributors. The publisher will provide Diamond with more copies in the coming days in order to fill orders while a second printing gets underway.

The Gimoles #1 and Lions, Tigers and Bears trade paperback are now available to a limited number of comic shops and online comic retailers worldwide and will be available everywhere by Thursday, August 4th, 2005. Make sure you gets your copies before they’re all gone!

Anyone attending the San Diego Comic Con International is invited to drop by the Runemaster Studios booth (#1115) and pick up a copy of The Gimoles #1, signed by creators Mike Bullock and Theo Bain, along with a Gimoles poster for only $1!

For the first time ever, Runemaster Studios’ own Jack Lawrence, Mike Bullock, Theo Bain and Scott Kinney will be together at a major convention signing, sketching, unveiling new properties and making announcements regarding the future of the popular studio best known for its all-ages comic work.

Hailing from Kent, England, it’s not often that Lawrence and Bain can attend North American events, but when the opportunity arose to travel to beautiful downtown San Diego for this year’s Comic Con International, the pair jumped at the chance.

“Theo and I really can’t wait to just take it all in,” said Lions, Tigers and Bears artist Jack Lawrence. “We’ve heard what a huge event the convention in San Diego is and just knew we had to make sure we were there.”

Joining the two artists are creator/writers Mike Bullock and Scott Kinney. While Bullock is rapidly making a name for himself as a premiere creator/writer of all-ages comic properties, Kinney is taking a turn from his Hollywood action stories (Killer Stunts, Inc and Exxtreme Idiotz) to officially unveil his first all-ages property, Zak Kosmic, formerly known as Kid Kosmic.

Those already familiar with Runemaster’s stable of properties might wonder about the name change on Kinney’s property.

“We were contacted by Jim Starlin and made aware of his concern that the name Kid Kosmic was very similar to his Kid Kosmos property,” stated Kinney. “While the similarities end with the titles, out of respect for Jim and all his great work, we decided to go with Zak Kosmic instead.”

Bullock will be on hand enjoying his first ever signing with creative partners Lawrence and Bain, as well as showcasing his two new properties, The Light Knights and The Unholy Dawn. The former is Runemaster’s first superhero title, while the latter is a departure from the studio’s all-ages work into the mature, horror realms.

“The Light Knights is about a group of young friends who find out that getting their wish to become superheroes might be more than they can handle,” said Bullock. “With Derrick “Dandy & Company” Fish providing the artwork on The Light Knights, I’m sure our readers will love what they see. And just as I’ve wanted to do a superhero book, I’ve also had a horror itch that needed scratching, which is where brilliant, young artist Marlin Shoop comes in with our book The Unholy Dawn.”

Along with single issues of Lions, Tigers and Bears and the newly printed trade paperback of the critically acclaimed series, Runemaster will also have Lions, Tigers and Bears t-shirts, The Gimoles #1, posters featuring The Gimoles and LTB, as well as assorted other goodies for everyone who stops by the Runemaster table, featured in the Alias Comics Pavilion (#1115).

TAMPA, FL – May 6, 2005 -- PSPcmx.com, the premier licensed comic book online portal, has announced their official release of the first issue of Lions, Tigers and Bears Volume 1. With the first three issues of the acclaimed Lions, Tigers and Bears mini-series from Image Comics sold out, this will provide millions of PSP users with their first opportunity to enter the world of the Stuffed Animal Kingdom.

“We’re extremely overjoyed that so early in PSPcmx.com’s launch we’re able to offer Lions, Tigers and Bears to the PSP audience! When I tell you this series is written with sensitivity and adventure and drawn in a captivating animated style, it isn’t just because I am part of the original comic book team – but as a comic fan, it is a style of book that I’ve waited all my life to read!” said Dave Lanphear, co-founder of PSPcmx.com. “Lions, Tigers and Bears is terrific all-ages reading!”

Lanphear’s twenty years of award-winning print production experience, accentuated with his decade long emphasis on pure digital production and his strong, personal ties to the comic industry through his studio Artmonkeys.com, has opened a large library of comic book properties for PSPcmx™.

“I’d heard Dave raving about Lions, Tigers and Bears earlier in the year, and he lavished a lot of time on the books,” recalls PSPcmx.com’s other co-founder Gabo Mendoza. “When I saw the online version, it was my first time seeing the books, and it’s nothing short of a blockbuster animated film and fun video-game brought to life as a comic book! I was blown away!” Mendoza is best known by his first name, Gabo of Gabocorp.com. Since 1997, Gabo has been lavished with international acclaim for his revolutionary vision and online exhibitions of cutting edge web and media development.

“When we were approached by PSPcmx to put the first issue of Lions, Tigers and Bears out on the PSP, the only thing I could think of was just how utterly cool this is,” exclaimed Mike Bullock, creator and writer of the critically acclaimed comic book series. “I’ve been a fan of the Playstation since the first time I ever laid eyes on a Twisted Metal commercial on television and to be able to look at the gorgeous artwork Jack Lawrence created for Lions, Tigers and Bears on a Playstation console is just unbelievable!”

PSPcmx.com will roll out the first issue of Lions, Tigers and Bears over two downloads, keeping file sizes optimally small and quick. The first download, Lions, Tigers & Bears 1A, is online now and can be downloaded directly from the site at www.pspcmx.com. The update for Lions, Tigers and Bears 1B will be available May 25th 2005.

For fans of either the PSP or Lions, Tigers and Bears, this couldn’t come at a better time, with the recent announcement of the 112-page Lions, Tigers and Bears trade paperback, collecting the entire mini-series and made available through comic book retailers and book sellers worldwide in July from Alias Entertainment and Runemaster Studios, Inc.

As many comic retailers and readers gear up for the summer season, some may notice the impending first LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS trade paperback is conspicuously absent from the Image Comics section of Previews Magazine. However, those who continue turning the pages in the May 2005 cover dated Previews Magazine will find the trade in the Alias Enterprises section, on page 235, which Diamond has graced with their Spotlight On and Certified Cool distinctions.

"Alias couldn't be more proud of the success our first all ages title, LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS has had around the country, and around the world," stated Mike S. Miller, Alias' Executive Director. "We are absolutely thrilled to have the rights to publish the trade paperback, and are sure it will be a favorite amongst readers of all ages for decades to come!"

The 112-page full-color, soft cover trade will feature all four issues of the first LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS mini series as well as a new ten- page story. In addition to the story content, the trade will feature pin-ups from industry greats such as Luke "GREEN LANTERN" Ross, Fabio "DRAGON'S LAIR" Laguna, Andy "OWLY" Runton and Theo "THE GIMOLES" Bain and others, as well as never before seen imagery from series artist Jack Lawrence. With a cover price of only $9.95, Alias Enterprises is confidant that this trade paperback will be the first in a long line of quality all-ages collections offered at a price point that's affordable to persons of every age.

"We really wanted to go back to print on the single issues when we saw just how fast they were selling out," said series creator and writer Mike Bullock. "But when we found out that wasn't in the cards, we did our best to make the trade paperback available as soon as possible. Hopefully, the trade will soothe the hunger so many people have for this series while whetting their appetite for future stories."

With an in-store date of July, 2005, Alias Enterprises and Runemaster Studios are hoping the wave of sold out single issues will carry over to the trade paperback.

"We intend to keep the trade in print as long as there is a demand," added Miller "and with preliminary requests for stock already in place from book store chains and comic retailers, we're expecting that demand to continue for a long time."

Runemaster’s Lions, Tigers and Bears will be used by the Arizona Public Library system in conjunction with their Summer Children’s Literacy Program. The all-new story will run in the Arizona Republic, Arizona’s largest newspaper, every Sunday starting on May 22^nd for ten consecutive weeks.

The good folks at Samurai Comics in Phoenix have been involved with the local libraries ever since they first opened about five years ago,” said LTB writer Mike Bullock. “They’ve been casting about for a solid story to run for the Children’s literacy Program for some time and after showing LTB to the library, Samurai was given the green light to approach Runemaster Studios regarding re-printing the first mini series in the paper.

Read more here.

On Wednesday March 16^th, 2005 Lions, Tigers & Bears #2 hit stores and by the following day, Diamond Comic Distributors had completely sold out. With the first issue selling out in 18 days and the second selling out in 18 hours, it seems Image Comics and Alias Enterprises have a bona fide hit on their hands.

The story, chronicling the adventure of young Joey Price on his trip through the Stuffed Animal Kingdom, has become one of the hottest all-ages titles in years. Retailers present at this past weekends’ Wizard World Los Angeles comic convention were exclaiming the virtues of this series to everyone who would listen.

“This book is wonderful,” said Gail Burt, owner of Metropolis Comics. “We're always searching actively for titles that are all-ages friendly, not strictly geared for young kids, but good for EVERYONE, and Lions, Tigers and Bears certainly qualifies. It’s one of the hottest selling books we’ve had in a long time.”

Retailers and fans alike lined up at the Image Comics and Alias Enterprises booths to get copies of the book as well as have copies signed by series creator, Mike Bullock.

“I was overwhelmed and overjoyed at the response we received at WWLA,” stated Bullock. “Not only was it one of the best conventions I’ve ever been to in terms of attractions from other publishers and creators, but it was hands down the best reception Lions, Tigers and Bears has received at any one time.”

Advance copies of Lions, Tigers & Bears #3 were on hand for convention goers and the limited amount of issues were sold out by the end of the convention, as well as the promotional posters Alias Enterprises brought with them. If retailer reactions at WWLA are any indication, expect Lions, Tigers & Bears #3 to sell out before it even ships.

Lions, Tigers & Bears is a four issue, all-ages monthly mini series launched in 2005 from Image Comics. Created and written by Mike Bullock with art by Jack Lawrence, Lions, Tigers & Bears has quickly become one of Image Comics most critically acclaimed debuts of 2005.

Lions, Tigers & Bears creator Mike Bullock will be appearing at Wizard World Los Angeles the weekend of March 18^th at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, California. Fans of the sold out Lions, Tigers and Bears can meet Mike at the Alias Enterprises and Image Comics booths throughout the weekend. Mike will have a limited number of LTB #1 on hand as well as LTB T-shirts and other goodies especially made for the convention. Be sure to stop by and begin your journey through the Stuffed Animal Kingdom!

On February 2^nd of 2005, Runemaster Studios, Alias Enterprises and Image Comics joined forces to release Lions, Tigers and Bears #1. Two and a half weeks later, when retailers contacted Diamond Comics Distributors to replenish their depleted stock, they found out there were no more available. It seems that comic readers are ready for more than just superheroes and stories based on licensed properties after all.

Lions, Tigers and Bears has rapidly made its way to the forefront of the new wave of original, all-ages material currently hitting the comic market. The fact that the first issue in the series sold out before the second issue even shipped to stores proves the demand for original all-ages material is growing at a rapid pace.

“We really wanted to do something fresh and new,” states Jack Lawrence, artist on the hit series. “When Mike and I first began discussing our views on comic creation, we found out rather quickly that we have a lot in common and one of those things is the desire to create stories anyone of any age can enjoy.”

"I really wondered just how the book would be received when we first decided to do it. I mean, there really are no superheroes or super villains, no giant robots, no evil alien despots and the only real power in the book comes in the form of the imaginations of two children," said writer Mike Bullock. "Thankfully, both retailers and fans embraced Joey and the Night Pride and we couldn’t begin to thank them enough for their overwhelming support.”

With the second issue coming out in less than two weeks, on March 9^th, Team Lions, Tigers and Bears hope readers make sure their retailers are aware of the demand for the series.

“It’s a terrible shame the precarious position retailers are placed in with the current comic market,” added Bullock. “Order too high and risk getting stuck with piles of non-returnable merchandise. Order too slim and watch as your customers are unable to purchase things from your store. It’s really a double-edged blade they’re forced to walk every month. Hopefully, retailers will see the demand for this first issue and respond accordingly with re-orders for the next two issues and stronger pre-order numbers on the final book in this series.”

Lions, Tigers and Bears is a four issue, all-ages monthly mini series launched in 2005 from Image Comics. Created and written by Mike Bullock, with art by Jack Lawrence, Lions, Tigers and Bears has quickly become one of Image Comics most critically acclaimed debuts of 2005.

Here’s what others have to say about Lions, Tigers & Bears #1:

"This has all the ingredients of a truly incredible story." -Mike Kunkel, HeroBear and the Kid

"Well, let's take inventory here; amazing concept, great script, gorgeous art, and a pure love of storytelling that permeates every page. First class all the way, and I want more NOW." -Gail Simone, Birds of Prey

“Mike and Jack have crafted a book that confirms to the youngest of us the possibilities of magic in our world-- and touches the hearts of the oldest of us to remind us of the power and importance of imagination.” -Mike Wieringo, Fantastic Four

“Bullock and Lawrence seem determined to remind us that comics are supposed to be fun to read.” -Michael Maillaro, Comics Nexus

“[Lions, Tigers and Bears] stirs memories of childhood boredom and the fun you can have with the greatest gift you were given, your imagination.” -James Redington, Silver Bullet Comic Books

“This is one of the most delightful and original stories I've ever read within the pages of a comic book.” – Robin Parrish, Infuze Magazine

Platinum Studios, an entertainment company that controls the world’s largest independent library of comic book characters, has announced the acquisition of the next four graphic novels by acclaimed horror writer Wil Radcliffe. Platinum will develop all four graphic novels as live-action features.

The acquisition is part of a major expansion of Platinum’s thriller line on the heels of Platinum’s recent $200M deal with Gold Circle films (HR, 10/26/04) and exclusive deal with independent comics publisher Top Cow Productions, Inc. (HR, 7/21/04).

Platinum’s deal with Radcliffe came about following a blind submission from Radcliffe to Platinum. Platinum responded enthusiastically to Radcliffe’s imaginative concepts, evocative settings, and interesting character hooks.

“I liked Platinum’s approach to the business and had heard great things about them, so I thought, ‘What can it hurt?’” says Radcliffe. “Now I find myself with not one, but four projects with them. It’s a little intimidating, but exciting at the same time.”

Radcliffe's first professional writing sale was the short story “Shadow Plays” to Marion Zimmer Bradley's Fantasy Magazine. He is also a contributor to Comics Buyer's Guide and Cracked Magazine. Last year, Radcliffe published his first young adult fantasy novel, “Noggle Stones”.

“Wil has an incredible gift for creepy, scary material,” said Platinum Studios chairman Scott Mitchell Rosenberg. “We loved the first graphic novel story he submitted and asked him if he had more--all of them were great. Platinum is always looking for writers with great ideas, and I personally love horror and thriller stories. We’re fortunate to be working with him.”

The four projects included in the deal are “Bone Hill”, a thriller about a psychiatrist trying to save young female patient whose psychoses may hold the key to ending an ancient, mystic evil, “The Whisper King”, about a man who must protect a group of kids from the monsters who abducted him as a child, “Macabre”, a teen supernatural horror story about a young man possessed by a vengeful spirit, and “Play Dead”, in which a family is haunted by the malevolent spirit of their beloved household pet.

More information on Platinum Studios and their properties can be found at www.platinumstudios.com

The first convention of the 2005 season is about to get underway. While this is the first convention of the season, it is also the first convention appearance for the characters of Lions, Tigers & Bears as Mike Bullock will be in attendance with all the denizens of the Stuffed Animal Kingdom. Mike will be signing at both the Alias and Image booths through Friday and Saturday. As an added bonus, Mike will have the first ever Lions, Tigers & Bears t-shirts on hand, limited to only 100. These shirts are sure to be a hot item, so make sure you find Mike and get your shirt before they’re all gone!

Those blasted Beasties are at it again! This time they created some bizarre printing glitch and it seems Diamond didn’t receive the copies of Lions, Tigers & Bears #1 until a week after they should have arrived. Due to lateness, the first issue was pushed back one week. We’re pretty sure Grumble is behind this, as this certainly smacks of Beastie interference!

Sorry for the delay, but rest assured Ares is on the case and has ensured the books are in the Diamond Comic Distribution warehouse. Pallo himself is currently overseeing the shipments to make sure they’re being processed for delivery to stores worldwide next week.

If anyone has concerns regarding the timeliness of the series, I’ll let you in on a secret: Jack just finished the final pages of issue #4 and once Dave letters them and Ron proofs the edits (which should all happen by the end of this week), the series will be complete and ready to print!

Thanks as always for your unending support!

What happens when an eleven-year-old boy finds an alien battle suit in his closet? Zak's first idea is to live out his fantasy of being a real-live superhero, but when a dark alien overlord comes looking for his stolen technology, he must fight for the survival of himself, his family, and every man, woman and child on Earth.

"I've had the privilege of watching Mike (Bullock) develop Lions, Tigers & Bears behind the scenes and have been impressed from day one," states Kinney. "Kid Kosmic is a series that's been rolling around in the back of my mind for many years, and when I saw how masterfully Mike and Jack (Lawrence) were handling all-ages material like Lions, Tigers & Bears, the thought of bringing Kid Kosmic to Runemaster sparked and caught flame. I believe this studio is going to carve out a respectable niche in the all-ages category and build a brand associated with creativity and quality."

Just as various interested parties have approached Bullock and Lawrence regarding a Lions, Tigers & Bears feature film; Kinney has discussed the possibility of adapting Kid Kosmic as a CGI animated feature in the vein of The Incredibles with individuals in the entertainment industry. A writer/director who is currently finishing a multi-million dollar 3D CGI animated feature has also expressed interest in writing the screenplay and potentially directing the Kid Kosmic film.

"I'm just in the discussion stage as far as anything outside of a comic series (coming in 2005) goes," said Kinney. "After the success of The Incredibles, people can easily see the film appeal with the wonder of a kid superhero in an alien-powered 'supersuit' who gets caught up in the middle of an intergalactic war. We've also talked about it being done as a combo of CGI/live action ala Spy Kids instead of 100% animation, but it's all just talk right now-the possibilities are wide open."

According to the creator, the premise of the idea is simple: A young boy's ultimate superhero fantasy comes true when he awakens one morning and finds a powerful, artificially intelligent battle suit lying in the corner of his closet-and it's just his size. The only downside is that the owner of the suit, a universally feared galactic overlord, says it was stolen from him...and he wants it back.

"I'd heard Scott's pitch for Kid Kosmic at last year's San Diego Comic Con International, while he was shopping Killer Stunts, Inc. to prospective publishers. As much as I love Killer Stunts, Inc., Kid Kosmic is really what caught my eye and gave me such a strong admiration of Scott's talent," said Runemaster Studios, Inc. Founder and President Mike Bullock. "When Scott voiced interest in bringing Kid Kosmic and his adventures to Runemaster Studios, we jumped all over it. The entire studio is very enthused by Scott's creativity and we're all very honoured he wants to toss his hat into our ring."

Kid Kosmic has been described as "ET meets Star Wars told with a young comic book hero in the vein of Spider-Man."

Adam Lawrence, the Studios' 3d animator, is currently developing 3d CGI models for the Kid Kosmic characters. Discussions abound to create the Kid Kosmic comic book in 3d CGI with Lawrence attached as the sole artist on the series.

With strong interest to take Kid Kosmic from a fledgling comic book series to a CGI feature film, video game and other incarnations, 2005 should bring big things to Kinney and his creation.

Meltdown Comics, on Sunset Blvd in Hollywood California has announced Lions, Tigers & Bears Day on Saturday, January 29th to celebrate the release of the newest Image Comics all-ages mini series. Series creator Mike Bullock will be on hand from 1pm to 4pm to sign comics and other promotional items as well as interact with readers and other special guests.

Meltdown Comics and Runemaster Studios, Inc. are joining forces to provide visitors with a contest, while making Lions, Tigers & Bears #1 available for signing. One lucky contestant will leave with an original piece of artwork from the first issue of the series. The creative team has vowed to never sell art pages from the first issue, so contests such as this one will be the only way readers can get their hands on an official page of Lions, Tigers & Bears artwork from the first issue.

Gaston Dominguez-Letelier, head buyer for Meltdown Comics, had this to say about Lions, Tigers and Bears, "Not since POGO or Calvin and Hobbes have I been as excited in the art of comics. What Bullock and Lawrence have achieved with this series will let me as a comics’ retailer feel comfortable in recommending their books to young readers and adults alike. Lions, Tigers & Bears is the ‘kick in the pants’ all-ages comics needed."

Furthermore, Mr. Dominguez-Letelier stated, "If you frequent comics’ stores worldwide and see Lions, Tigers & Bears on the shelves, do a good deed and share your love of the form, buy 20 copies of this book to donate to your local Library and give the gift of comics, I know I will!"

“Having lived just a few short blocks from Meltdown Comics during the early ‘90s, it’s a pleasure and a treat to have one of my first signings for Lions, Tigers & Bears at this store,” said Bullock. “Gaston and the entire Meltdown crew have such an infectious love of comics and storytelling that I’m sure a good time will be had by all.”

Along with Bullock, various movers & shakers in the Hollywood firmament are expected to be in attendance throughout the afternoon to help celebrate Lions, Tigers & Bears Day, as well as other comic creators from Image, Alias and several small press publishers.

Lions, Tigers & Bears #1 (of 4) will be available in better comic shops Wednesday, January 26th, 2005. Published monthly by Image Comics, Lions, Tigers & Bears is a four-issue, original all-ages mini series.

Established in 1992, Meltdown Comics is now the largest comics’ shop on the entire west coast and the comics outlet of choice for Hollywood, California. Voted into the Best of LA in 2004’s Los Angeles Magazine voting, Hollywood moguls who want to keep their finger on the pulse of comics know where the heart beats: Meltdown Comics.

More information on Meltdown Comics, Lions, Tigers & Bears Day and other upcoming events, as well as general store information can be found at http://www.meltdowncomics.com or by calling 1.323.851.7223.

Runemaster Studios' Wil Radcliffe has spent several years developing an in-depth role-playing game based upon his critically acclaimed young adult novel, Noggle Stones. For 2005, Radcliffe has made the beta version available free to players online at the Runemaster Studios’ Forums. The Noggle Stones RPG allows readers of the Noggle Stones novel and comic book to create their own characters and adventure in a unique and vibrant fantasy world by participating in on-line campaigns, run by Radcliffe himself on the Runemaster Studios message boards.

Noggle Stones takes place in 1899 in the American Midwest. Strange, mystical events merge this world with the world of legendary creatures such as goblins, ogres, and the like.

While searching for the lost ruins of an ancient temple, the mad goblin scholar, Bugbear, and his gambler cousin, Tudmire, come into possession of a most peculiar scroll. It is with this scroll that the worlds of Fey and 19th Century Earth are suddenly and inadvertently thrust together.

“It's an opportunity to actually become part of the story,” said Radcliffe, “to explore the rich fantasy world of Noggle Stones and even interact with characters from the novel and comic book.”

The Noggle Stones RPG is an original system created by Radcliffe after years of gaming experience.

“While designing the game system, “My goal was to enable people who've read the book, or people who enjoy fantasy novels, comic books and role-playing games, to find the Noggle Stones RPG easily accessible and highly enjoyable,” added Radcliffe.

Players can expect to interact with other fantasy fans and characters from the novel, like Bugbear, the demented goblin scholar and Tudmire, his wily cousin. Radcliffe will treat players to the unique fantasy setting Noggle Stones offers, with rules that are easy to follow, yet detailed enough to add an extra dimension of realism and excitement to game play.

Many critics have praised Noggle Stones for its unique plot and characters.

P.C. Hodgell, author of the Godstalk Series calls Noggle Stones: "Clever and original.”

Former D.C. Comics Editor, Ernie Colon says: "In the tradition of Tolkien and Rowling, Wil Radcliffe carves out his own territory in the fantasy genre with this fast-paced, richly peopled tale.”

Barry Cunningham, the editor who discovered J.K. Rowling, says of Noggle Stones: "It's great fun!"

Visitors to the Noggle Stones mini site will have the opportunity to download the rules book and play the game before it hits the bookstores and hobby shops later this year.

Runemaster Studios’ head honcho Mike Bullock will be appearing at Comics Plus from 4-8pm on Wednesday, December 22^nd, 2004 in the Shoreview Village Mall to support his new Image all-ages series Lions, Tigers & Bears. As a special holiday treat, Bullock will have limited edition signed and numbered copies of Lions, Tigers & Bears #1 on hand in a very limited quantity.

“I’m very excited about this,” said Dave Thompson, owner of Comics Plus, “and a lot of my customers are looking forward to it as well.”

“I'm really looking forward to this event because most of the all-ages comics in my store are superhero-related, geared toward younger readers, and this gives me an opportunity to provide my customers with something a little different,” continued Thompson. “My younger customers and their parents, whether they are regular readers of humorous comics like Archie & The Simpsons, or more heroic comics like Spider-Man & Justice League, have all been very excited for this signing. They've responded very favorably to the synopsis of what the comic is about and they're thrilled at the notion of meeting a real-life writer of comic books."

Lions, Tigers & Bears is a four issue, all-ages monthly mini series beginning in January 2005 from Image Comics. Created and written by Mike Bullock, with art by Jack Lawrence, Lions, Tigers & Bears has quickly become one of Image Comics most highly anticipated debuts of the New Year.

Open since July of 2004, Comics Plus is Shoreview’s first-ever comic specialty shop. Located at 1060 Highway 96, Shoreview, MN 55126 in the Shoreview Village Mall at Highway 96/Lexington Ave, just 2 miles north of I694/Lexington Ave. Comics Plus can be reached by phone at 651-482-8385.

Founded in early summer of 2004, Runemaster Studios has set before itself the task of creating properties for comics, movies, television, gaming and toys. Originally brought to life by Mike Bullock, Runemaster Studios has grown to include such talents as Jack Lawrence (Lions, Tigers & Bears), Frederik Hautain, Theo Bain (Monster Club), Wil Radcliffe (Noggle Stones), Rob Schwager and Adam Lawrence.

More information regarding Lions, Tigers & Bears or Runemaster Studios, its members, services, properties and other projects can be found at http://www.runemasterstudios.com.

Runemaster’s own Wil Radcliffe has officially become a creator for Platinum Studios, with two new projects in development for the ground-breaking new entertainment company. Bone Hill and Whisper King are Platinum’s latest offerings. Surf on over to Wil’s Platinum Page for all the latest info on these exciting new properties

Lions, Tigers & Bears #2 is now available for preorder in the Diamond Comic Previews December 2004 issue on Page 148. Runemaster Studios would like to thank everyone who ordered #1; the response has been overwhelming and we greatly appreciate it. Click here to view the pre-filled December order form.

Click here to get your first glimpse of the new series, coming in January 2005 from the wonderful folks at Image.

Lions, Tigers & Bears will make its Diamond Previews Magazine debut this Wednesday, October 27th, 2004 in the Image Comics section on page 142. In order to make sure your retailer gets the book for you, we’ve created a handy-dandy form you can print out, fill in your information and take to your retailer to ensure you get Lions, Tigers & Bears #1. If you have an online retailer, feel free to email this form to them along with your information so they can get it for you. Click here to view the order form.

Atomic Comics, the largest comic book retail chain in the Southwestern United States, will be hosting Free Comic Book Day 3.5/Atomic Con on Saturday October 23rd, 2004 at all four of their Phoenix area stores. Runemaster Studio’s Mike Bullock will be appearing at the Metro Center store from 11am to 4pm, promoting his new Image title, Lions, Tigers & Bears. Bullock will have promotional flats with the first issue’s cover art, sneak peaks of the first issue, as well as character images and more to share with fans. Other attending professionals include Robert (Walking Dead, Invincible, Captain America) Kirkman, Rob (Youngblood) Leifeld, Marat (Youngblood) Mychaels and more. For more information, surf on over to Atomic Comics’ official website at www.atomiccomics.com.

"A child's instinctual need for the comfort of a stuffed animal is rooted in a reality long forgotten by the adult world. The hidden truth is that these companions have been defending children since the dawn of time."

With those words, creator Mike Bullock kicks off his new four-issue mini-series, LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS, debuting in January from Image Comics. Created and written by Runemaster Studios' Bullock, with pencils, inks and colors by studio partner Jack Lawrence, LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS is a four-issue mini-series that critics have dubbed "Monsters Inc. meets The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe."

The series revolves around young Joey Price as he discovers that the noises he hears at night aren't just figments of his imagination. Those noises come from the monstrous Beasties, who spend every night trying to "get" little children. Luckily for Joey, his stuffed animals are more than he ever thought they were, as they come to life to defend him from the Beastie perils. Follow young Joey on the adventure of a lifetime as he travels through the Stuffed Animal Kingdom, a journey that puts the fate of all the world's children in his hands and brings him face-to-face with his destiny.

"I really wanted to create something timeless with this story, something anyone of any age could enjoy today, a year from today, ten years from today," says Bullock. "Hopefully, Jack and I have done just that."

LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS was first previewed at the San Diego Comic-Con International in July of 2004. After receiving several offers from various publishers, Bullock met with Image publisher Erik Larsen and asked Larsen to look through the promotional kit. Larsen was quick to jump on the all-ages book, and wasted no time in snatching up the property for Image Comics.

LIONS, TIGERS AND BEARS is set for release in January of 2005 and can be found in the Image section of the November Diamond Previews. For more information on the book, please drop by www.runemasterstudios.com.

Image Comics is a comics and graphic novels publisher formed in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Since that time, Image has gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. There are currently four partners in Image Comics (Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino), and Image is currently divided into three major houses (Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions and Image Central). Image comics and graphic novels cover nearly every genre, sub-genre and style imaginable, offering science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today.

Visit www.imagecomics.com for more information.

9/24/04 - Runemaster Radio

The Dragon Page, a highly successful, syndicated radio talk show that focuses on fantasy and science fiction has recently expanded their repertoire to include comic books and other mediums for discussion on the air. Evo Terra, co-host/founder of the show, has invited Runemaster Studios’ own Mike Bullock to participate in this week's show, Sunday September 26th, 2004. If you’re in the Southwestern United States you can tune in to Dragon Page and listen live on your local Clear Channel Entertainment station, for those not in the area, navigate to www.dragonpage.com and listen via streaming audio this Sunday, 6PM PST (9PM EST).

7/19/04 - Runemaster Studios Announces New Properties

Young Studio Wastes No Time Unveiling New Works

Runemaster Studios is proud to announce their first two creator-owned properties just in time for this week’s Comic Con International in San Diego, California. While the young studio has only been in existence a short while, they’ve been hard at work creating a brand new tale for fans of all ages in Lions, Tigers & Bears as well as adapting the acclaimed young adult fantasy novel Noggle Stones.

Lions, Tigers & Bears is the product of Mike Bullock’s imagination brought to vivid life by UK comics sensation Jack Lawrence. With industry veteran Ron Marz attached to the project as Editor and Hollywood mogul Leo Partible onboard as the producer, the sky is the limit for this exciting new property. Critics have called Lions, Tigers & Bears “Monsters Inc. meets The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe!”

Noggle Stones, a hit fantasy novel penned by Wil Radcliffe is being faithfully brought to life by UK comics rising star Theo Bain. While still in the developmental stages, the Noggle Stones comic series has already received overwhelming praise from critics and fans that have been shown the preliminary artwork.

“In the tradition of Tolkien and Rowling, Wil Radcliffe carves out his own territory in the fantasy genre with this fast paced, richly-peopled tale.” Ernie Colón.

With San Diego’s Comic Con International rapidly approaching, Runemaster Studios hopes to finalize a publishing deal during the Convention and will announce the particulars of said deal as soon as possible.

Runemaster Studios invites everyone to find out more about these two properties at their website:

http://www.runemasterstudios.com/ltb.php

http://www.runemasterstudios.com/nogglestones.php

7/18/04 - Runemaster Studios Welcomes Newest Partner

Runemaster Studios is proud to announce our newest member, comic industry professional Rob Schwager. A fourteen-year veteran of the comics industry, Schwager has worked for Image, DC, CrossGen and Marvel in various capacities as well as running his own graphics art company for the past eight years. The addition of a talent such as Schwager is yet another blessing for the members and fans of Runemaster Studios.

7/12/04 - Runemaster Studios Breaks New Ground

Six creators come together to form an imagination factory

After months of planning, Runemaster Studios is officially open for business. The small studio offers a large array of services to the world at large including art, writing and promotional work.

Founded in early summer of 2004, Runemaster Studios has set before itself the task of creating properties for comics, movies, television, gaming and toys. Originally brought to life by Mike Bullock, Runemaster Studios has grown over the last month to include senior partners Jack Lawrence (Darkham Vale) and Frederik Hautain as well as junior partners Theo Bain (Monster Club), Wil Radcliffe (Noggle Stones) and Adam Lawrence.

Bullock, Hautain and Jack Lawrence all became acquainted via www.brokenfrontier.com. The online comic magazine owned and operated by Hautain, employs Bullock as a senior writer and until recently, as the Reviews Editor. Jack Lawrence also calls Broken Frontier home as his official fan forum is hosted on the Broken Frontier message boards.

Theo Bain and Adam Lawrence worked alongside Jack Lawrence at APComics and Lightmaker.com, a computer animation company that handles work for the Cartoon Network, Disney and Universal Pictures to name a few, respectively. After realizing the potential for Runemaster Studios to help them bring their own creative visions to life, the two graphic artists wasted no time in signing on.

In addition to their creative properties, Runemaster Studios is also engaging in promotional work for other creative entities such as Dabel Brothers Production, DPGVisions, A&C International and Metal Ages Records.

The studio plans to announce its first two properties next week, just in time for this year’s San Diego Comic Con International.