tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14090249949229084312024-02-19T19:01:15.589-06:00MAYBE BLOGGING WILL HELP"All these things happening... confusing me. Can't concentrate! Can't use the power of my brain!" --Jean Grey, X-Men #5John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comBlogger254125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-77058780096514072882023-01-08T17:25:00.000-06:002023-01-08T17:25:02.483-06:00KING-CAT #82 -- Available Now!<p>Hi everyone, the new King-Cat, #82, is now available for ordering!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBd4UFf99nOWofmp__bb0Lyb4UnXDFbuAjBCFQeSfrmpzjxJG16FTmCIbXC-WiFgaH7uA2Y4D6KJdLpfyX8HkPTqNOPcBhW5R1ggfzzOoIGmp3LyzCfe-ZYukJfaUGpTY5mVzYUBqchI4BkgcTgnQXeQ0kAsB0YmM4orPyWE_WGVox_5-d1jDMHhq/s4032/PXL_20230104_000240122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBd4UFf99nOWofmp__bb0Lyb4UnXDFbuAjBCFQeSfrmpzjxJG16FTmCIbXC-WiFgaH7uA2Y4D6KJdLpfyX8HkPTqNOPcBhW5R1ggfzzOoIGmp3LyzCfe-ZYukJfaUGpTY5mVzYUBqchI4BkgcTgnQXeQ0kAsB0YmM4orPyWE_WGVox_5-d1jDMHhq/w300-h400/PXL_20230104_000240122.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">It's 32 digest pages, featuring: Michi Moo Love, Nature Notes, lots of stuff about 7-11s (and video games and Conan's Savage Sword); plus: Walking Slowly in the Backyard, Wooden Toothpicks, Dreams, Driving Country Roads, Catbird Talk, Letters, and more!</span></div><p>To order ONE copy directly, please send the following, via PayPal to johnp_kingcat AT hotmail DOT com:<br /></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>USA: $6.50</b></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b>CANADA: $7.50 USD</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>REST OF WORLD: $9.50 USD</b></div></b><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">These prices include shipping in a plain manila envelope! If you prefer shipping with a cardboard backer in a padded envelope/box (more expensive), please order from <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com">www.spitandahalf.com</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">To order a copy along with other comics, please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com">www.spitandahalf.com</a></p><p>Thank you!<br />John P.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt6L_-0jQTV1tXBFkomNPEa2KmPJEB0nuRrPzLBJzopm0CPCTai7MyHmNp84bl_R6-T58Jl6tPAbwaXq_8gOvmIn8klyYBPZEKpPxfRarF89Uj7bdpyTlr3AA_rZNmqVlSJJk8-9uDYTDQwds12JywXj0EBdViZ9HdYgqMk3iOnezNsXH-w_2o670/s2048/323866966_850956496137709_5907648274425915208_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFt6L_-0jQTV1tXBFkomNPEa2KmPJEB0nuRrPzLBJzopm0CPCTai7MyHmNp84bl_R6-T58Jl6tPAbwaXq_8gOvmIn8klyYBPZEKpPxfRarF89Uj7bdpyTlr3AA_rZNmqVlSJJk8-9uDYTDQwds12JywXj0EBdViZ9HdYgqMk3iOnezNsXH-w_2o670/w400-h300/323866966_850956496137709_5907648274425915208_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaZvreBGI12p1JEpQldxsGB0m56IeHtKkgtiJ-5SNivC49uGr0Lv8jhkK3oH25X_-uMS1F9VjKRT2fd2kKokgo6vL_OkD4aZHAuUNcVOYmhHo9teY2QFf8JrDcP6i3-BDm65o6p8_Q_MO4cy03BOHjpAD_KEVn9bTkXnwvq0YnW1QU6XeE_qgq9k-/s2048/323900384_521473880048189_6805427908908964940_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaZvreBGI12p1JEpQldxsGB0m56IeHtKkgtiJ-5SNivC49uGr0Lv8jhkK3oH25X_-uMS1F9VjKRT2fd2kKokgo6vL_OkD4aZHAuUNcVOYmhHo9teY2QFf8JrDcP6i3-BDm65o6p8_Q_MO4cy03BOHjpAD_KEVn9bTkXnwvq0YnW1QU6XeE_qgq9k-/w400-h300/323900384_521473880048189_6805427908908964940_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8AMOWBDrGTwAj406INN2g82kGEUJhLhgmmQcS9v690EMHPkjRFIilrJ6SLyeJq2df_eLJoFNVCKq91qZ61u295tw9jd5-KZjuiQoFbUaZPuUKY4Z1_v4OXN6HsLIgKazX2_oYhr7BbQiSm6woHONS9ZeucDnFIXqIWWhWaPU2b292Pkz78rHt2av/s2048/324022802_618866536706694_854259805095958494_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8AMOWBDrGTwAj406INN2g82kGEUJhLhgmmQcS9v690EMHPkjRFIilrJ6SLyeJq2df_eLJoFNVCKq91qZ61u295tw9jd5-KZjuiQoFbUaZPuUKY4Z1_v4OXN6HsLIgKazX2_oYhr7BbQiSm6woHONS9ZeucDnFIXqIWWhWaPU2b292Pkz78rHt2av/w400-h300/324022802_618866536706694_854259805095958494_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-90537529842749968622022-12-08T16:18:00.003-06:002022-12-18T11:29:51.062-06:00THE STONEWARE JUG -- Available Now!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9v8i0Xq79YTwSjQvYzv8ChpSP3Oc_wuhHGbqySQ5VEbGzXYaPw8LKpFCGHobstRiDsRWWvJM3Ky8Z-fHExWTraK82yJRCRIW8Cu8DXZNKtfraP1AJOkXGdr_3FJJPlgSD0K-zV9eIcG2KK25fv6kaqtLB3PiM_JzrOxIQAKHv7H0RLUoz-bBqY-YS/s2048/318497494_10218431221851029_4635252653158231404_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9v8i0Xq79YTwSjQvYzv8ChpSP3Oc_wuhHGbqySQ5VEbGzXYaPw8LKpFCGHobstRiDsRWWvJM3Ky8Z-fHExWTraK82yJRCRIW8Cu8DXZNKtfraP1AJOkXGdr_3FJJPlgSD0K-zV9eIcG2KK25fv6kaqtLB3PiM_JzrOxIQAKHv7H0RLUoz-bBqY-YS/w300-h400/318497494_10218431221851029_4635252653158231404_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><b>Stefan Lorenzutti</b> is an American poet living with his family in a small house in the mountains of Poland, from which he and his wife run their <b>Bored Wolves</b> publishing imprint. From my first encounter, I was enchanted with their books– simple, beautiful, elegant, with none of the ponderous opacity that makes up so much contemporary poetry. A few years ago, Stefan and I collaborated on a print called <b>“Whiz,”</b> in which I adapted a short poem of his into comics form. It worked so well, we decided to do it twelve more times! <b><i>The Stoneware Jug</i></b> collects 13 comics-poems (including Whiz), that focus on the seasonal, mundane-but-transcendent experiences of domestic life: baking, laundry, ice. Fans of King-Cat will, I think, enjoy this very much. 28 pages, black ink on lovely soft paper, saddle-stitched, 7.875″ x 5.5″ (Co-Published by Nieves Books/Bored Wolves/Spit and a Half)<br /><br /><b>To order ONE copy directly</b>, please send the following, via PayPal to johnp_kingcat AT hotmail DOT com:<br /><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>USA: $9.40</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>CANADA: $10.00 USD</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>REST OF WORLD: $11.35 USD</b></div><p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>These prices include shipping in a plain manila envelope! If you prefer shipping with a cardboard backer in a padded envelope/box, please order from <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com">www.spitandahalf.com</a></b></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>To order a copy along with other comics,</b> <b>please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com">www.spitandahalf.com</a></b></div><br />Thank you!<br />John P.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVB3RhIguBAa2AntZDl37lLtvSYMV2VUaUkpBUCOFyz-21TpwvhRsAXGDPbrVtTZCA02DQBj8BoEJHmsEiX11H1pKZU2EueVQRSA3krzFUGj12CdWhcR0GI9X-9l0gqk4UGiIbkABxE8tpAHr-qoLuR71itYAQkBecVbmIv-jPiwR-woKH9DXTdVv/s2048/318331061_10218431221731026_1556044028260343873_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVB3RhIguBAa2AntZDl37lLtvSYMV2VUaUkpBUCOFyz-21TpwvhRsAXGDPbrVtTZCA02DQBj8BoEJHmsEiX11H1pKZU2EueVQRSA3krzFUGj12CdWhcR0GI9X-9l0gqk4UGiIbkABxE8tpAHr-qoLuR71itYAQkBecVbmIv-jPiwR-woKH9DXTdVv/w400-h300/318331061_10218431221731026_1556044028260343873_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFkhRnDcFkboDtrRsSioc6T3fz5p0Lw4qz8EF0qFf2iRUqBj04y-sjD-J3bOcJG1Aew5WznFvwEsYu-7Rwn__W1sie-sJ70XsXSkWBpsrrD5cNbXo7V0GtCrCcHwoEHxb9oS4Ip2UxPMYgS9jOWts534EKOWvicW0tDbbZLS2JbN-pliLT8rX3Z7I/s2048/317835269_10218431221451019_4736564737278739395_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFkhRnDcFkboDtrRsSioc6T3fz5p0Lw4qz8EF0qFf2iRUqBj04y-sjD-J3bOcJG1Aew5WznFvwEsYu-7Rwn__W1sie-sJ70XsXSkWBpsrrD5cNbXo7V0GtCrCcHwoEHxb9oS4Ip2UxPMYgS9jOWts534EKOWvicW0tDbbZLS2JbN-pliLT8rX3Z7I/w400-h300/317835269_10218431221451019_4736564737278739395_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-56411623397634257952022-06-20T09:02:00.003-05:002022-06-20T09:05:03.156-05:00ROCK N ROLL NEVER FORGETS #1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_b-hqbEW9RM4ghjt3n4WmsZOxujU1qnwTKvfwbRVyfkaFWoMmVRw1qGhx2drV_1QmEuieJHwI_AT4hxL5Z5yALv4v6FG3ZF6MnEf5CYqlDHvbUnNQKuJSvyPOx3V3BCgAu0cYXjWZlHY8Kvso9o3D39bfI1t_dkD9-r_bizZYHTbR-KhEutU4CcX/s1124/289280332_10158972855962616_8596528834912095365_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1124" data-original-width="843" height="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_b-hqbEW9RM4ghjt3n4WmsZOxujU1qnwTKvfwbRVyfkaFWoMmVRw1qGhx2drV_1QmEuieJHwI_AT4hxL5Z5yALv4v6FG3ZF6MnEf5CYqlDHvbUnNQKuJSvyPOx3V3BCgAu0cYXjWZlHY8Kvso9o3D39bfI1t_dkD9-r_bizZYHTbR-KhEutU4CcX/w352-h469/289280332_10158972855962616_8596528834912095365_n.jpg" width="352" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1995, Denver.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This was one of the last shows we played. My ears were already fucked up. I remember I was sooper sick that night, and I showed up for the gig in my pajamas. The Wreck Room was like an 80's hair metal club that never got the memo, and I was bewildered that we were actually playing there. I remember at one point saying into the mic, "I though Kurt Cobain killed you." I'm sure that endeared us to the crowd.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Afterwards, I walked home in the snow and ice in my PJs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">--John P.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>Photo courtesy Eric Lowe of the fabulous Christines.</i></div></div>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-41737581677883692872022-02-11T17:12:00.007-06:002022-02-17T12:17:27.838-06:00KING-CAT #81 AVAILABLE NOW!<p>Hey folks, King-Cat #81 will arrive from the printer on Sunday Feb. 13, 2022! Wow.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitEJnVyPoiwjrFiHXdWUawgdrbtHqUMyQjUJxBX30lZ1Qp8zofdgnqsz9ILPxttCEJ1qq-jX8C7cHdUYvseMEEdZsZ6BkZTr9UdFStrCmZGczzdfywogN9ozFS8Gp5pomSfM3_u8NpMJkNSpUhv-6m9S79uFlkczZcT9A7qbLHCSJmNoce2bKwRD9f=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitEJnVyPoiwjrFiHXdWUawgdrbtHqUMyQjUJxBX30lZ1Qp8zofdgnqsz9ILPxttCEJ1qq-jX8C7cHdUYvseMEEdZsZ6BkZTr9UdFStrCmZGczzdfywogN9ozFS8Gp5pomSfM3_u8NpMJkNSpUhv-6m9S79uFlkczZcT9A7qbLHCSJmNoce2bKwRD9f=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><p>The epochal thrills of Medicine Cabinets, Garbage Days, and the decline and collapse of American Empire all come together in this new issue. Plus: Sparrows in the Rain, Faded Hearts, Where’s Miss Moo, James Brown vs Prince, Monobrow, Letters, and all the rest. 36 digest pages, black and white throughout.</p><p>If you would like to order a copy as part of a larger Spit and a Half order, you can do so <a href="https://www.spitandahalf.com/product/king-cat-81-by-john-porcellino/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>If you would prefer to order a <b>single, standalone copy</b>, prices are as follows:</p><p><b><u>--ORDER a SINGLE COPY directly...</u></b></p><p><b>USA: $6.50<br />CANADA: $7.25 USD<br />REST OF WORLD: $8.90 USD*</b></p><p>Payable via PayPal to: kingcat_paypal AT Hotmail DOT com</p><p>If you're in the US, you can also send a check for $6.50 payable to:</p><p>John Porcellino<br />PO Box 142<br />South Beloit, IL 61080</p><p><b><u>--GET a SUBSCRIPTION...</u></b></p><p><b>Subscriptions get you FOUR issues of King-Cat delivered to you as they become available.</b></p><p><b>USA: $20.00<br />CANADA: $23.00 USD<br />REST OF WORLD: $31.00 USD*</b></p><p>Payable via PayPal to: kingcat_paypal AT Hotmail DOT com</p><p>If you want to order a subscription along with other books, please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com">www.spitandahalf.com</a>.</p><p><b><u>--JOIN my PATREON...</u></b></p><p>For a pledge of $5/month (US) or $6/month (INT'L) you will receive copies of all physical, self-published zines I produce (King-Cat plus other titles, such as the upcoming Prairie Pothole zine), PLUS a laminated, signed/numbered OFFICIAL® King-Cat Fan Club Membership Card, and exclusive online content like my monthly newsletter THE BONEY ISLAND OBSERVER.</p><p>[You can also pledge at lower rates to receive web-only premiums (PLUS a physical Membership Card).]</p><p>Patreon info is at <a href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino">www.patreon.com/johnporcellino</a></p><p>THANK YOU!!!</p><p>John P.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBWcS7hhnBSOyoC0xQbxMz4-lgeoUMMRVlsfz74fhhQTqV_XP1SAKi4M9icfIn1QEQ0zrxZmSOkkFMbI9lFlYS1uqus__zwNDF9TDFCnwY03GEZQFqmYcBJVn5ZZyBR0RK7do02mDAJ1vBOEOFxWaqGMrwaiWiHMZ9SvKsipdY05Fm4JDMBP8C6gps=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBWcS7hhnBSOyoC0xQbxMz4-lgeoUMMRVlsfz74fhhQTqV_XP1SAKi4M9icfIn1QEQ0zrxZmSOkkFMbI9lFlYS1uqus__zwNDF9TDFCnwY03GEZQFqmYcBJVn5ZZyBR0RK7do02mDAJ1vBOEOFxWaqGMrwaiWiHMZ9SvKsipdY05Fm4JDMBP8C6gps=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLDYh2AwrdoHXEBHluav4p3xviFGF1xWspi5djrAOLHktoAjQZq_2FWDTReteM_yuFHsxOyssmlA3AD3rO4edmgJOG729Ir6B4RcFMM0yAJMNhovaZC9vfGC9yUVfI6mdD7bXYdL8sgMnI2v0Nfgmf4TUCl9Tdfrap3US2mBqX78wBbdJB4nTOrVre=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLDYh2AwrdoHXEBHluav4p3xviFGF1xWspi5djrAOLHktoAjQZq_2FWDTReteM_yuFHsxOyssmlA3AD3rO4edmgJOG729Ir6B4RcFMM0yAJMNhovaZC9vfGC9yUVfI6mdD7bXYdL8sgMnI2v0Nfgmf4TUCl9Tdfrap3US2mBqX78wBbdJB4nTOrVre=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">*AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND CUSTOMERS: Please note the US Postal Service is currently NOT shipping to your countries. HOWEVER I have a workaround in place -- when ordering though, please anticipate delays. Thank you!</div>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-9954025372931547552021-11-28T16:19:00.009-06:002021-11-28T16:57:35.841-06:00THE BEATLES - GET BACK (dir. Peter Jackson, 2021)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMgLB4Lu1Rc-3uKLADnGtlfBN_4y0T66jSui-83h410xef-ydg5O29Y2qBSWwVHw5Hx5xcaDD9cN4BZnGVagiNe5TaGUXBEWuKKyZpecEN_I1JORfUjENTL_FCW5igsisx3xCpoLYwusM/s2048/get-back.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1301" data-original-width="2048" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMgLB4Lu1Rc-3uKLADnGtlfBN_4y0T66jSui-83h410xef-ydg5O29Y2qBSWwVHw5Hx5xcaDD9cN4BZnGVagiNe5TaGUXBEWuKKyZpecEN_I1JORfUjENTL_FCW5igsisx3xCpoLYwusM/w400-h254/get-back.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>In the fall of 1979, either for my birthday or for Christmas, I asked my mom for some Beatles albums. This is one of the great mysteries of my life, because up to that point, my personal record collection consisted of A) the <i>Saturday Night Fever</i> soundtrack, and B) <i>The Stranger</i>, by Billy Joel. My mom had a copy of <i>If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears</i> by the Mamas and the Papas that we played as kids, and my dad had his collection of scratchy Sinatra albums that came out on Saturday mornings, but the Beatles were a non-entity in our house growing up. So I have no idea what prompted me to ask my mom for those records.</p><p>In any case, one morning I was presented with the <i>Red Album</i> and the <i>Blue Album</i>. Those two records changed my life in ways that I may never fully realize. They were like receiving a treasure map for some alien land, a land that was mysterious, and wonderful, and even a little bit scary sometimes. </p><p>I used to listen to them over and over, standing at the side of the couch and pretending to play piano. I loved how they told a story. How they started so simple, yet so clever, and got progressively deeper and weirder as you went on. And then at the end they just started rocking again... "Revolution" and "Old Brown Shoe." I don't even think I knew what "Rock n Roll" was, but I was unknowingly receiving a crash course.</p><p>Then there was <i>Rarities</i>, with "There's a Place" and "Misery," and "You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)," and that bizarre reflective double album, <i>Rock n Roll Music</i> -- with raunch like "Bad Boy" and "Hey Bulldog" on it.</p><p>Meanwhile I was checking every Beatles book I could out of the library. I obsessively memorized each detail, learned all the trivia, went to the School Of Cosmic Beatles Fandom. </p><p>The hot lunches at school were $1.90, so each morning my mom would press two dollar bills into my hand on the way out the door. I saved the dimes I got in change and every twelve weeks, when I had $6.00 saved up, I made the pilgrimage to the Flip Side to buy my next Beatles album.</p><p>I pored over my Beatles books, learning every tiny detail about albums I'd not yet heard, and ranked them based on how crucial they seemed, creating a long-term Purchasing Strategy... One after the other, they became mine: <i>Revolver</i>, <i>Sgt. Peppers,</i> <i>Rubber Soul</i>. (The White Album was a double so I asked for it for Christmas 1980.)</p><p>And then John got shot. I was in the bathroom getting ready for school. My mom knocked on the door and told me, "It was just on the news... one of the Beatles got shot last night..." That day at school was one of the strangest days ever. Beatles music poured from every room in the building. The teachers all had radios on in the classroom that played Fabs tracks nonstop. And they were crying. I was a little too young to understand, in all but the most abstract way, what had happened.</p><p>The arrival of the White Album that Christmas was the arrival of a kind of Rosetta Stone, a tool for me to use to understand the universe. Those photo inserts, the crazy poster, the lyrics. John Paul George and Ringo. Dear Prudence. Back in the USSR. Happiness is a Warm Gun. Yer Blues. Revolution 9. I was cosmically proud to learn that Paul McCartney wrote, and the Beatles recorded, the song "Birthday," ON THE ACTUAL DAY I WAS BORN, September 18, 1968.</p><p>In High School, my Freshman year art teacher, learning of my Beatles obsession, came prepared with a trivia question for me every morning. I almost can't believe it, but she never stumped me once. I remember one day, almost blowing it, my mind a blank, digging painfully deep in frustration, until finally I blurted out, correctly, "RORY STORM AND THE HURRICANES!!!"</p><p>For three or four years, from 1979-1982, all I listened to was the Beatles, all I read about was the Beatles, and all I thought about was the Beatles.</p><p>Eventually I started listening to New Wave music, and, oddly, Yes (they reminded me of childhood, and as I entered puberty with its attendant hormonal insanity, my childhood took on a kind of peaceful, hopeful resonance for me). Then of course, punk, and Hüsker Dü, the Replacements, Flipper, and REM; Neil Young, and Bob Dylan, the Byrds, Robyn Hitchcock. But I always loved the Beatles.</p><p>Nowadays, once or twice a decade, I fall back into my Beatles hole. I listen to all the records again, read a few new books, and as time goes on, my understanding of them continues to grow and evolve. With each new phase of my life, I see their work in a different light.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgPJMdotkRZjyGbdmchXyWfVh7M4Fv6J3bEOsDwa7tkq95zDcD8F9tujuLu5iDU4VsjjrbbKjEeBP6YUiAwxC07X4f2Ug7ZgPsRsWYEhkqGl1WBUkulIX7oUE8fWHzSwiQTLDkB8YEFo/s1200/The-Beatles-Get-Back.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgPJMdotkRZjyGbdmchXyWfVh7M4Fv6J3bEOsDwa7tkq95zDcD8F9tujuLu5iDU4VsjjrbbKjEeBP6YUiAwxC07X4f2Ug7ZgPsRsWYEhkqGl1WBUkulIX7oUE8fWHzSwiQTLDkB8YEFo/w400-h225/The-Beatles-Get-Back.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Peter Jackson has taken the old, buried film shot to make their 1970 movie, <i>Let It Be</i>, notorious for its depiction of a once inseparable band on its last legs, cleaned it up and re-edited it with modern technology, and gifted Fabs Obsessives with over 7 hours of incredible footage. If nothing else, the story has grown exponentially richer. We all know how it ends, but we now see firsthand how it happened day by day. All the little asides noted in books and bootlegs have been made clear for everyone to see, with their own eyes.</p><p>The movie is not perfect. It's boring at times (when the sessions were boring, you really feel it), but if you make it through the dismal early sections, you see the band gradually come back to life, and for a brief moment in time, rekindle enough of the spark to get the job done. The constant quick cutting, and unfortunate slicing and dicing of songs into three second snippets, made my brain hurt after awhile, but that only seemed to make the transcendent moments come even more vividly to life. The scene of McCartney realizing his band, his life, was <i>this </i>close to just disappearing one day, brought tears to both his eyes and mine. As Lennon re-energizes after a heart to heart with ol' Paul, his ferociously smart and cutting brain-tongue steals scene after scene. George settles in and smiles, and Ringo seems relieved at last to be finally playing music.</p><p>The famous rooftop concert, now extended to include the full set, is stunning. In contrast to the uncertainty and lack of resolve of even a few days prior, once the lads finally climb the stairs and plug in, they instantly return to being an unstoppable force of nature.</p><p>Clearly this movie is not for everyone. But for anyone who loves the Fabs, or loves the sixties, or loves old vintage music/recording gear, it's a stunner. It'll turn your brain inside out for a few days.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEireaSMOQOSQgTrw3lHQdBLwb_5hdUfRcEIR7MpRg4MtGirElrUmY20oGfwpxpzXMw7No9mG-zkG2SOAfWmo4rqAEZS4uJA9FCJHOlZ4TZ7PWuif7yA973F-yi_aTkXBWERkDSiRzqVVAY/s1200/The-Beatles-Get-Back-Got-A-Feeling.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1200" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEireaSMOQOSQgTrw3lHQdBLwb_5hdUfRcEIR7MpRg4MtGirElrUmY20oGfwpxpzXMw7No9mG-zkG2SOAfWmo4rqAEZS4uJA9FCJHOlZ4TZ7PWuif7yA973F-yi_aTkXBWERkDSiRzqVVAY/w400-h211/The-Beatles-Get-Back-Got-A-Feeling.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p><i>(This essay originally appeared in </i>Criterion Diary <i>#9, my online movie review column for Patreon supporters. For information on joining, please visit my site at <a href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino">www.patreon.com/johnporcellino</a> Thank you!)</i></p>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-4860035065413907942020-12-28T13:37:00.002-06:002020-12-28T13:39:24.309-06:00KING-CAT 80 ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MgITzvMCuYf7i9m1sO45g374Xpq5lS6QiDzXdWQhpU-blgUKymNB4EayAJPznxExBh1iKGPrSEnIe_4GCKQajiewoUHKI44bg04j5Y1p2e59I8ukEEg2s0_VhF2OBomGCID-y7dItHY/s960/133984361_10215322016722844_6049015894887362722_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MgITzvMCuYf7i9m1sO45g374Xpq5lS6QiDzXdWQhpU-blgUKymNB4EayAJPznxExBh1iKGPrSEnIe_4GCKQajiewoUHKI44bg04j5Y1p2e59I8ukEEg2s0_VhF2OBomGCID-y7dItHY/w390-h390/133984361_10215322016722844_6049015894887362722_n.jpg" width="390" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hey folks, <b>King-Cat #80</b> will arrive from the printer on Thursday Dec. 31, 2020! Wow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This daring issue features: Married, Young Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Dogs, Cats, Birds, Feeding the Birds, Squirrels, Dreams, Letters, Top 40, Mom, Childhood Neighbor, Flowers, and a Chimpanzee. YES A CHIMPANZEE. 44 digest pages in glorious black and white. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you would like to order a copy as part of a larger <b>Spit and a Half</b> order, you can do so <a href="https://www.spitandahalf.com/product/king-cat-comics-80-by-john-porcellino/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you would prefer to order a single, standalone copy, prices are as follows:<br /><br /><b>--<u>ORDER a SINGLE COPY directly...</u></b><br /><b></b><u></u><br /><b>USA: $6.50<br />CANADA: $7.25 USD<br />REST OF WORLD: $8.90 USD</b><br /><b></b><br />Payable via PayPal to: kingcat_paypal AT Hotmail DOT com<br />If you want to order KC 78 along with other books, please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/king-cat-79-by-john-porcellino/" target="_blank">www.spitandahalf.com</a>.<br /><br />If you're in the US, you can also send a check for $6.50 payable to:<br /><br />John Porcellino<br />PO Box 142<br />South Beloit, IL 61080<br /><br /><b>--<u>GET a SUBSCRIPTION...</u></b><br /><b></b><u></u><br />Subscriptions get you FOUR issues of King-Cat delivered to you as they become available.<br /><br /><b>USA: $20.00<br />CANADA: $23.00 USD<br />REST OF WORLD: $31.00 USD</b><br /><br />Payable via PayPal to: kingcat_paypal AT Hotmail DOT com<br />If you want to order a subscription along with other books, please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/?s=subscription">www.spitandahalf.com</a>.<br /><u><span style="color: #000120;"></span></u><br /><b><u>--JOIN my PATREON...</u></b><br /><b></b><u></u><br />For a pledge of <b>$5/month (US) or $6/month (INT'L)</b> you will receive copies of all physical, self-published zines I produce (King-Cat plus other titles, such as the upcoming <i>Prairie Pothole</i> zine), PLUS a laminated, signed/numbered OFFICIAL® King-Cat Fan Club Membership Card, and exclusive online content like my monthly newsletter THE BONEY ISLAND OBSERVER.<br /><br />[You can also pledge at lower rates to receive web-only premiums (PLUS a physical Membership Card).]<br /><br />Patreon info is at <a href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino">www.patreon.com/johnporcellino</a><br /></div><p></p><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-size: 16px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">THANK YOU!!!<br />John P.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>---BETTER PHOTOS COMING SOON---</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzKo603OQUU9VVbURo1_67AR1PfCgFOFqZRxQoIS8ImjIU4zsFdrFUdNjzBusT52NCBDWJMXrEkMMkjLTxT18CEMj264cQBG7czwpkCiYofOn17I3a6bAphBjEcZLkh7ycVdt24BisZU/s960/132414323_10215322014922799_4328581627764864592_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxzKo603OQUU9VVbURo1_67AR1PfCgFOFqZRxQoIS8ImjIU4zsFdrFUdNjzBusT52NCBDWJMXrEkMMkjLTxT18CEMj264cQBG7czwpkCiYofOn17I3a6bAphBjEcZLkh7ycVdt24BisZU/s320/132414323_10215322014922799_4328581627764864592_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYphhbn6gln-p00QvtOZjUnPkwPGXSd2Pr8X6W4O37PBX6kso6RQBLasmTVylrilQm7XsGRhlUBSOUiCGb2ZbYH_X5n-n22ad5LxeZ4VEBnR4tvP_5QhO256Hg5dQnJNvs2n3AsDByoKs/s960/133079395_10215322013602766_293000923116887254_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYphhbn6gln-p00QvtOZjUnPkwPGXSd2Pr8X6W4O37PBX6kso6RQBLasmTVylrilQm7XsGRhlUBSOUiCGb2ZbYH_X5n-n22ad5LxeZ4VEBnR4tvP_5QhO256Hg5dQnJNvs2n3AsDByoKs/s320/133079395_10215322013602766_293000923116887254_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6jK5I0Kfy2QAvOqeyzIX2HrBxumUHLOo1QUWoj5ctznRpK9XFirh2gAN0pt4ihTbIyiJyahWr8sN-KNTA9WX7mFY6ossJPWoVvdYQz6k87h8tlFdXM5b0i-1n8GoSuK0IRLpXQHf08VA/s960/133650889_10215322012482738_7169517627005497438_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6jK5I0Kfy2QAvOqeyzIX2HrBxumUHLOo1QUWoj5ctznRpK9XFirh2gAN0pt4ihTbIyiJyahWr8sN-KNTA9WX7mFY6ossJPWoVvdYQz6k87h8tlFdXM5b0i-1n8GoSuK0IRLpXQHf08VA/s320/133650889_10215322012482738_7169517627005497438_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawwHb8Pg8D5FPjghlvaTVBZCDhCLs0Qa8LltMybyhQ0ITrwr03623sM4rFOHnhoDzz-7VcVxoH5GMJOf5C7_Psx_3WJYNKcfGGj9pYyoi5MuSihY7-FO8L5RsJRZhPQ2P8ikEnme62RI/s960/133699440_10215322015762820_2394376695508563214_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawwHb8Pg8D5FPjghlvaTVBZCDhCLs0Qa8LltMybyhQ0ITrwr03623sM4rFOHnhoDzz-7VcVxoH5GMJOf5C7_Psx_3WJYNKcfGGj9pYyoi5MuSihY7-FO8L5RsJRZhPQ2P8ikEnme62RI/s320/133699440_10215322015762820_2394376695508563214_n.jpg" /></a></div>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-52535374868549590572020-10-20T10:16:00.002-05:002020-12-07T12:34:00.208-06:00NEW PRINTS AVAILABLE!<p>Hi Folks, I don't often collaborate with other artists, but recently the poet Stefan Lorenzutti and I worked together on this letterpress comic print, where I illustrated a poem of his.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eNhJVaDG0UUsLQflistGxRaxsOUeJqkE6YowLduGjKml2TNZS8I8pkJafmxi2R_XJ29H0du-nBfpy_hfKhpE_2dw6tJCfOqEt172uNsqPq0N-lG3-tsAkCSr_NMrGg8kgp7BmzAqBJI/s827/whiz1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="827" data-original-width="620" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3eNhJVaDG0UUsLQflistGxRaxsOUeJqkE6YowLduGjKml2TNZS8I8pkJafmxi2R_XJ29H0du-nBfpy_hfKhpE_2dw6tJCfOqEt172uNsqPq0N-lG3-tsAkCSr_NMrGg8kgp7BmzAqBJI/w300-h400/whiz1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>(Click to enlarge!)</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Prints are 5.5" x 9" on beautiful thick paper, signed and numbered by the artists, and will be shipped protected in a rigid photo mailer.</b></p></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIk8Bzt1z48Xm0N9IOm_Q_yRoHW1lzPSMD2vw2LpVE4fREyWmPxYKgS2PXGgZ48km46ccq6xQSscViMaLmJjQnFK3I13-nZCm-_0oR0rLQj0GmCFrkc2mpcdYLkzlGgqSdkbiLSI3AAaQ/s1280/thumbnail_whizprint3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIk8Bzt1z48Xm0N9IOm_Q_yRoHW1lzPSMD2vw2LpVE4fREyWmPxYKgS2PXGgZ48km46ccq6xQSscViMaLmJjQnFK3I13-nZCm-_0oR0rLQj0GmCFrkc2mpcdYLkzlGgqSdkbiLSI3AAaQ/w400-h300/thumbnail_whizprint3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hdpWKww-W9n3z0Ya9i7kFlB4WDD6qr0KAiv3uxKaiZMxHHxvx6L6JAOd19pBLaB0vDpQ91oZESJ8IpCicxVok5MmTjC6h8CWEglVDZXv1-fekpCPjGUMtW6XasAcAeTkWPmn1XHkTfE/s1280/thumbnail_whizprint1+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hdpWKww-W9n3z0Ya9i7kFlB4WDD6qr0KAiv3uxKaiZMxHHxvx6L6JAOd19pBLaB0vDpQ91oZESJ8IpCicxVok5MmTjC6h8CWEglVDZXv1-fekpCPjGUMtW6XasAcAeTkWPmn1XHkTfE/w400-h400/thumbnail_whizprint1+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-_8CpY7nLXKRQAHKws9ATDWK3mJpDDqjrw_9gBvPdohr8TpzeTMTW5slruMYQdcSMpO8sPwQMamB2jFdGNFpomngDsF2ZWXGIcmJoZj2aH-N_8DiDIraaFKet7v9Gf3iw4SJYYJmRVv0/s1280/thumbnail_plateprint.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-_8CpY7nLXKRQAHKws9ATDWK3mJpDDqjrw_9gBvPdohr8TpzeTMTW5slruMYQdcSMpO8sPwQMamB2jFdGNFpomngDsF2ZWXGIcmJoZj2aH-N_8DiDIraaFKet7v9Gf3iw4SJYYJmRVv0/w400-h300/thumbnail_plateprint.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Prices below include shipping and handling:</p><p><b>USA: $17.70<br />CANADA: $25.50 USD<br />REST OF WORLD: $27.85 USD</b></p><p>Payable via PayPal to johnp_kingcat AT Hotmail DOT com</p><p><u>Please be sure to include your correct mailing address.</u></p><p><b>THANK YOU!<br />John P.</b></p>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-33969690561733943722019-12-21T11:35:00.000-06:002019-12-22T10:15:47.320-06:00KING-CAT 79 ORDER INFO!!!<br />
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Hey folks, King-Cat 79 is being shipped from the printer as we speak, and will be available shortly after Christmas 2019. There are several ways to go about getting a copy!<br />
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<b>--<u>ORDER a SINGLE COPY directly...</u></b><br />
<b></b><u></u><br />
<b>USA: $6.50<br />CANADA: $7.20 USD<br />REST OF WORLD: $8.75 USD</b><br />
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Payable via PayPal to: kingcat_paypal AT Hotmail DOT com<br />
If you want to order KC 78 along with other books, please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/king-cat-79-by-john-porcellino/" target="_blank">www.spitandahalf.com</a>.<br />
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If you're in the US, you can also send a check for $6.50 payable to:<br />
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John Porcellino<br />
PO Box 142<br />
South Beloit, IL 61080<br />
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<b>--<u>GET a SUBSCRIPTION...</u></b><br />
<b></b><u></u><br />
Subscriptions get you FOUR issues of King-Cat delivered to you as they become available.<br />
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USA: $20.00<br />
CANADA: $23.00 USD<br />
REST OF WORLD: $31.00 USD<br />
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Payable via PayPal to: kingcat_paypal AT Hotmail DOT com<br />
If you want to order a subscription along with other books, please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/?s=subscription">www.spitandahalf.com</a>.<br />
<u><span style="color: #000120;"></span></u><br />
<b><u>--JOIN my PATREON...</u></b><br />
<b></b><u></u><br />
For a pledge of <b>$5/month (US) or $6/month (INT'L)</b> you will receive copies of all physical, self-published zines I produce (King-Cat plus other titles, such as the upcoming Christmas Stories zine), PLUS a laminated, signed/numbered OFFICIAL® King-Cat Fan Club Membership Card, and exclusive online content like my monthly newsletter THE BONEY ISLAND OBSERVER.<br />
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[You can also pledge at lower rates to receive web-only premiums (PLUS a physical Membership Card).]<br />
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Patreon info is at <a href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino">www.patreon.com/johnporcellino</a><br />
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THANK YOU!!!<br />
John P.<b><br /></b><br />
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<b><br /></b><b>KING-CAT 79</b> features: High School Memories, Backyard Dog Comix, A Visit to the Mystery Spot & Dickeyville Grotto, Grandpa John, Beer Bottle Poem, Top 40, Letters, a SPECIAL SURPRISE GUEST ARTIST, and more! 36 digest pages, black and white throughout.</div>
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John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-90670707153650451172019-11-14T17:50:00.001-06:002019-11-15T14:27:56.608-06:00TOM SPURGEON, 1968-2019<br />
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Yesterday one of my best friends in comics, Tom Spurgeon, passed away suddenly. Tom was one of those people in comics who was everywhere, involved in everything, connected to everyone. It's impossible to gauge what a huge loss this is to our community. For all the things Tom did in public to encourage and support artists and comics in general, there were all the things he did in private. There was no one like him.</div>
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Like he did for so many others, he showed me incalculable support throughout my time in comics. Since his passing I've heard from many people whose story was, "I was nobody and published a crappy minicomic, and Tom got hundreds of them for review, and yet he took the time to write a few encouraging words."</div>
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The photo at the top of this post was taken by Robin McConnell at the 2012 Brooklyn Comics Festival. I love the photo because Tom and I are both pretty cynical, depressed dudes, and yet here you can see our genuine joy at being together at a comics show in a school gymnasium in Brooklyn. </div>
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The photo above (by Jared Gardner) is Spurge and I at CXC 2018. Was this the last time we saw each other? Every time I was in his presence I felt so lucky, like I had to savor every word that came out of his mouth. He was a font of knowledge, wisdom, support, and yet he could be deeply critical of the failings of our comics community, especially what he saw as his own failings within that sphere. People have sometimes (lovingly) described him as salty, and curmudgeonly. He <i>was</i> those things, beautifully so, but only because he loved comics and cartoonists so much. He worked very, very hard to improve his world. And he succeeded to an amazing degree.</div>
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God bless him.</div>
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John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-38113400995434292452019-05-16T11:41:00.000-05:002019-05-16T12:02:36.339-05:00UPCOMING STUFFSHey, it's been a long, hard winter and a nearly-as-long, hard spring. But I'm whackin' away at <b>King-Cat 79</b>, and still hoping to have it out in time for <b>CAKE</b> in a few weeks! Maybe it will happen, maybe it won't. I'm getting too old and tired to really worry about it anymore.<br />
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Might as well post about some upcoming stuff.<br />
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Foist of all, this weekend is <b>Chicago Zine Fest</b>. Tomorrow, Friday May 17 (which is also King-Cat's 30th Birthday!), I'll be participating in <b>ZINE JEOPARDY</b> at Cards Against Humanity Theatre, 1551 W. Homer St. in Bucktown, 9 PM.<br />
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Then <b>Saturday May 18th</b> is tabling from 11-6 at the Plumber's Union Hall, 1340 W Washington Blvd.<br />
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<b>CAKE</b> is June 1-2 this year, at the usual spot. If I manage it I'll have KC79 on hand. If not, it'll be out shortly thereafter, sometime in June.<br />
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Other stuff coming out in 2019 includes two standalone zines, <i><b>The Collected Prairie Pothole</b></i>, gathering all the stories (click <a href="https://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/ArticleArchives?category=66522247" target="_blank">here</a> to read them online) for my short-lived :( weekly strip in the <i>Chicago Reader</i> (including three unpublished strips), and <b><i>Christmas Stories</i></b>, collecting three short holiday-themed comics, due out by the end of the year.<br />
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You can get all this and more delivered directly to your door by signing up for my <b>Patreon</b> at the $5/+ level ($6/+ International). Info here: <a href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino">www.patreon.com/johnporcellino</a><br />
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ROCK ON and GO BUCKS!<br />
John P.John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-38192888024244089912019-01-07T12:35:00.000-06:002019-01-07T17:51:20.360-06:00HEJIRA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another year in the bucket. Around here, things are cuspy. I mean, they're on the cusp of change. It's not always fun or exciting. It's that period when the old way has passed its time but the new way hasn't yet started. Limbo. Waiting, wondering.<br />
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In my case I'm talking about my future on this planet. As an artist, and as a person. The big news is I'm in the process of slowly backing away from the Spit and a Half distro.<br />
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When I restarted <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/" target="_blank">Spit and a Half</a>, in 2009 or so, it was with the hope I could grow it into a part-time job... something to do a few days a week to bring in some extra income and lift the financial burden off trying to survive as an artist alone (which is tough, everybody knows). Then there was a point when things kept growing where I thought, "Wow. This is really filling a need in the comics community… this is a real business." It became a full-time job (but it didn't really pay like a full-time job). And then it became a six-and-a-half days a week job that paid like a full-time job. (Thank you!)<br />
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Now if you're working a six-and-a-half days a week job, packing comics in boxes, answering the endless parade of emails, texts, Facebook messages, Instagram messages, twitter messages, dealing with problems, headaches, setbacks, mistakes, first of all, one thing is clear -- you sure as hell aren't gonna be drawing your own comics. Second -- every tiny lapse compounds upon itself. Wait, you have a doctor's appointment? The pile of work grows higher. You have to take your dog to the vet? Higher. You're just so depressed and tired you can't get out of bed? Higher.<br />
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It was a case of bad timing. If only this had happened when I was 25... When I had a community around me (ie in the same town as me) to help out, hell, to <i>hire</i>... And when I had energy and nerve and youthful idealism. But I'm fifty years old now and I have none of those things.<br />
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So now I'm fucking up. Maybe not super bad, but the writing's on the wall. I'm hundreds of books behind on updating the website. I've got 1000 titles scattered throughout our house (and a storage unit!), spilling everywhere and messing with the Feng Shui. I'm misplacing people's books... which one of a dozen stacks of boxes are those twelve missing minicomics in? I DON'T KNOW.<br />
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Like Cometbus said, "I wish there was something I could quit." So I just kept getting deeper and deeper behind, and feeling worse and worse. And then I was listening to Joni Mitchell's <i><a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=hejira+lyrics&oq=hejira+lyrics&aqs=chrome.0.69i59j0l5.3608j1j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8" target="_blank">Hejira</a></i> album. I've listened to it many times and never wondered about the title. Turns out <i>hejira</i> is an Arabic word meaning "a journey, especially when undertaken to escape from a dangerous or undesirable situation." (Good ol' Merriam-Webster.) And it clicked. I need my hejira. My tactical retreat.<br />
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Like all of us I'm sure, I grow more and more alienated from the modern world with each new day. I'm broken down by the constant cycle of bad news, horror, stupidity, greed, anger. In the pre-Distro days, if I was overwhelmed like that, I'd be able to retreat for a while, hide for a bit, regroup. Draw, think, walk in the woods, heal. But with the Distro that's an impossibility. There's always another email, always another order. PLEASE don't get me wrong, I'm incredibly humbled by and grateful for the support the Distro has gotten from the community. It's an honor to serve you all! But the time has come for me to pass on this mantle to the next generation. It's just not a job one old dude can do on his own anymore.<br />
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As a survival instinct, I've started drawing more (from life), and playing music again... and in those acts I've begun to touch parts of my spirit that have been neglected for a long time. It feels like the start of a rebirth. I'm fifty, and I hate to talk about it, but men in my family don't live very long. Early sixties maybe. My Dad made it to 64 by a few weeks. I have a lot of work still to do in this life... personal work. Comics to draw, letters to write, birds to feed. So I'm beginning to break down the distro... culling old titles, returning books to publishers... in an effort to restore some balance. Knowing me, it will be a long slow process, but over the last few months I've begun taking the first steps.<br />
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More soon.<br />
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I love you all! Thank you,<br />
John P.<br />
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PS: Thanks everyone for the well wishes I've received in response to this blogpost. To clarify, I'll (likely) continue to run the distro going forward, but it will be at a drastically reduced level, with a small, highly specific and rotating selection of books. Something that I really can take care of easily on a one or two day per week schedule.<br />
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<br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-25722640181539646002018-09-17T08:57:00.000-05:002018-09-17T09:15:44.188-05:00ZINE NOT DEAD X<br />
Oftentimes when people look at me sideways upon hearing that I live in a smallish town on the Wisconsin border, I half-jokingly explain that "I live as close to Chicago as I can afford to." Even though it drives me crazy, the City of Chicago is my hometown, where I grew up as a kid, and will always be a special place to me. So, I feel lucky that I get to live in an affordable, peaceful place, surrounded by nature and open space, yet am only a quick drive to "The City." A few weeks ago, I was invited to participate in the tenth iteration of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/zinenotdead/" target="_blank">ZINE NOT DEAD</a>, a Chicago zine/comix reading organized by Matt Davis of <a href="http://www.perfectly-acceptable.com/" target="_blank">Perfectly Acceptable</a> and Brad Rohloff of <a href="http://www.bredpress.com/" target="_blank">Bred Press</a>.<br />
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<i>View from the back porch of the event space, Ballroom Projects.</i></div>
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Steph and I headed into the city, and Google Maps took us in on Ogden Avenue. So we got to drive through Lagrange ("They gotta lotta nice girls there"), Lyons, Brookfield, Stickney, and other mysterious suburbs that I never really go to. We arrived early and had dinner, then took seats at what we called "The Grown Ups' Table" in the kitchen area of the event space. We got to chat with a succession of the Most Awesomest™ Cartoonists in Chicago. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/doyouevenreadcomics/" target="_blank">Max Morris</a> cuddled for a bit; <a href="https://www.drawnandquarterly.com/sabrina" target="_blank">Nick Drnaso</a> and his wife Sarah discussed house plants; <a href="http://aaronrenier.com/" target="_blank">Aaron Renier</a> and <a href="https://thenib.com/jessica-campbell" target="_blank">Jessica Campbell</a> went dog crazy; and <a href="http://2dcloud.com/" target="_blank">Raighne Hogan, Maggie Umber</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iona_fox/" target="_blank">Iona Fox</a> all said hi. Presently the room filled with people. I was like "Where were all these folks when <i>I</i> was 24???"<br />
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<i>Genius poster from the World's Greatest Cartoonist, <a href="http://www.hai-life.com/" target="_blank">Anna Haifisch</a>, hanging in the bathroom, Ballroom Projects.</i></div>
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Soon the show started. Brad and Matt had the crowd in stitches as they work through their usual "technical difficulties."<br />
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I spoke third (out of six) so Stephanie and I could make it back home to Beloit before midnight. (Our usual bedtime is about 9 pm.) I read from King-Cat 78, mostly comics about our cats and dogs, so it was fun. People seemed to dig it, and I felt overwhelmed by the warmth and support this community has for one another. It was very moving.<br />
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After I read I stuck around for the intermission, which featured a hilarious roast of the hosts by special guests <a href="http://www.ginawynbrandt.com/" target="_blank">Gina Wynbrandt</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahsquirm/" target="_blank">Sarah Squirm</a>. The crowd was howling. I felt kinda sad to have to split early, but I'm old.<br />
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<i>Gina as Matt, Sarah as Brad, killing it.</i></div>
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There were, I would guess, well over 100 people in the audience. On the way home I was telling Steph how when I first started making King-Cat you could count the number of US cartoonists making artful, literary comics on two hands. WE'VE COME A LONG WAY, BABY!</div>
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John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-70531002509213774902018-08-24T12:37:00.000-05:002018-08-24T13:48:27.708-05:00AUTOPTIC REPORPTIC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey it's been a long time since I've posted regularly on Ye Olde Blogge®. Partially it's because now that I've achieved Total and Complete Domination of Social Media™ I spend most of my time posting on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Myspace. Also, I write a monthly recap for my <a href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino" target="_blank">Patreon</a> supporters (hint hint) and that takes up a lot of what was once known as My Blogging Energy®.<br />
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That said, we all know how sinister Social Media is, and how inescapable Corporate Culture™ is nowadays... so I would like to focus more energy here going forward. I know Blooger is a wholly owned subsidiary of some Mega-Corp or another, but at least this is something with my name on it and there's no ads...<br />
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So without further ado, here's my report from the <a href="https://www.autoptic.org/" target="_blank">Autoptic Festival</a>, which I attended this last weekend in Minneapolis.<br />
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I have to admit I'm burned out on shows. I'm burned out on a lot of things (watch for upcoming Blogge Posts on this subject), but I'm burned out on shows. It used to be that after a weekend of traveling, tabling, dehydration, not eating well, and not sleeping well, I felt awful, and it took me sometimes close to a week to recover. Nowadays I feel that way <i>before</i> I leave for a show. Also, after two decades of utter chaos and upheaval, I'm in love with my current domesticated, backyardish life, and I'm usually loathe to leave even for short trips of a few days.<br />
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Prior to leaving for Minneapolis, though, I'd been fried out by several months of six-and-a-half day workweeks at the distro and I was kinda looking forward to seeing friends. Plus, Minneapolis in the summertime is never a bad idea. So off I went.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from atop the lookout.</td></tr>
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Traffic was bad through the Dells, as usual, but then it opened up into some of the prettiest interstate driving in the Midwest. I stopped at a rest area I'd never visited before, that promised a "scenic overlook." Sure enough, across the parking lot was a nicely maintained path into the trees. It wound up a hillside, onto a meandering boardwalk that spanned some nice gullies, and out onto a platform. The view was beautiful, with hills and woodland green spreading out to the horizon. I took some deep breaths and headed back down. I had to be in Minneapolis that evening for a panel discussion.<br />
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I was hungry and tired, and looking for a Burger King (don't judge me), and finally found one across the river in Minnesota. I parked and went in. It was grimy and dark. A few lonely people milled about at tables, nursing coffees. At the counter, ordering problems ensued, and the guy couldn't get the register open to make change; they made my gluten free burger with a bun, then they gave me a burger with no vegetables or condiments. When the guy was unable to give me a receipt I felt so sad that I couldn't even broach the subject with him.* The staff was clearly unhappy with each other, the management was bugging people about extra shifts etc etc. As I ate, I thought "Is this the World's Saddest Burger King?" I had my phone out and was about to tweet that, when a young woman and three little kids came in, bought frozen Cokes and proceeded to run into the Indoor PlayGround, laughing and smiling. No way it could be the World's Saddest anything anymore. So I put my phone away.**<br />
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A few minutes later I was in town, pulling up at <a href="https://www.moonpalacebooks.com/" target="_blank">Moon Palace Books</a>, where Autoptic events were being held. Lots of Comix-looking people milled about, and one of the panels was in progress when I arrived. Soon it was time for me to get up there. It was a panel on "Destigmatizing Vulnerability in Comics," hosted by <a href="https://twitter.com/aaronmfking" target="_blank">Aaron King</a>, with <a href="https://twitter.com/SageCoffey" target="_blank">Sage Coffey</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/AnxiousAa" target="_blank">Alexis Cooke</a>, and me. It went well. Afterwards people hung out in the bookstore café talking about comics, salami, and exhaustion.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vulnerability panel. Photo by<a href="https://twitter.com/melgillman" target="_blank"> Melanie Gillman.</a></td></tr>
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That night I stayed with <a href="http://www.uncivilizedbooks.com/" target="_blank">Uncivilized</a> publisher Jordan, his wife Jess, and Shoe the Cat. BFF <a href="http://www.freebensears.com/" target="_blank">Ben Sears</a> was there too. We stayed up late talking about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/TheOfficialMBV" target="_blank">My Bloody Valentine</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=gluyas+williams" target="_blank">Gluyas Williams</a>. Then off to Dreamland.<br />
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In the morning I drove Ben to the Autoptic venue. When we got there he realized he'd left a box of books back at Jordan's. He apologized profusely, but I assured him it was no big deal, and we headed back. On the way, he kept apologizing and beating himself up over it. Ironically, we had earlier been discussing <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=is+kentucky+in+the+midwest&oq=is+kentucky+in+the+midwest&aqs=chrome..69i57j0l5.7916j0j4&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8" target="_blank">whether Louisville (where he's from, and still lives) is the Midwest or not</a>. I have to say, after his impressive display of self-deprecation and apologetics, even if it's not, I hereby ordain him an Honorary Midwesterner. (<i>Sorry!</i>)<br />
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Anyhow, we went in and did the show. <a href="https://www.google.com/search?safe=off&biw=1536&bih=710&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=gzeAW9HpNcXQjwSHmZnICg&q=aria+minneapolis&oq=aria+minn&gs_l=img.3.1.0l3j0i8i30k1j0i24k1l6.253890.255174.0.256963.9.9.0.0.0.0.162.809.3j4.7.0....0...1c.1.64.img..2.7.807...0i67k1j0i10i67k1j0i30k1j0i5i30k1.0.nEoQrh1Kl3s" target="_blank">Autoptic is in an amazing space</a>, some kind of massive vaulted former warehouse. In that way alone it feels very different than most comics shows. It doesn't feel claustrophobic or oppressive. It also attracts a slightly different crowd than your average comics con. There were a lot of older people attending, as well as families and groups of friends. A number of people came to my table and told me they had just happened to be in town for the weekend and saw the show listed in the paper, and decided to check it out. So there was a kind of openness and curiosity to the attendees that I usually only feel at a zine show. (It should be noted, Autoptic has a somewhat larger scope that just a "comics show," featuring zines, printmaking, and other small press publications as well.)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ye Olde Spit and a Half table.</td></tr>
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I was located between my old buddies <a href="https://kevinh.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kevin H.</a> and <a href="https://www.patreon.com/zak_sally/posts" target="_blank">Zak Sally</a>, so it was nice to get to hang during the show and make fun of each other etc. I had a great time tabling, even though I had the usual con-related dehydration and blood sugar problems (nobody's fault but my own, folks!). In the afternoon I moseyed on over to a nearby Whole Foods and got something hot and non-sugary to eat and then it was smooth sailing through the end. All in all, sales were wonderful, I saw a bunch of old friends, met a bunch of new ones, and got to pick up some awesome comics.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-anD_JF_O0zc3XFArfy65hnq9CtKpc25cNzYxjevDfAR8Fu8lgyEo_6UXGDYy-0RTAyHiv0Ja7pcQax_ye8W8o8-frh85B-02jGcWItbkI3SRE2McwngAguiM7-CLm61-8wMlwZvsTI/s1600/40010734_10209937666197446_120343583474581504_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7-anD_JF_O0zc3XFArfy65hnq9CtKpc25cNzYxjevDfAR8Fu8lgyEo_6UXGDYy-0RTAyHiv0Ja7pcQax_ye8W8o8-frh85B-02jGcWItbkI3SRE2McwngAguiM7-CLm61-8wMlwZvsTI/s320/40010734_10209937666197446_120343583474581504_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Help! I'm trapped inside a comics festival with no protein!</td></tr>
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Afterwards a group of us walked over the bridge to the official restaurant/afterparty location. I shared a table with <a href="https://gabriellebell.com/" target="_blank">Gabrielle Bell</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hannahratblood/status/1032362219944792064" target="_blank">Hannah and Anna from Philly</a>, <a href="https://uncivilizedbooks.com/the-whistling-factory/" target="_blank">Jesse McManus</a>, Zak, Ben, <a href="https://twitter.com/iona_fox" target="_blank">Iona Fox</a>, and Kevin. Wow. I kinda hate comics sometimes, but I love cartoonists! God Bless 'Em All.<br />
<br />
After having a lengthy discussion with Gabrielle about spontaneous kundalini awakening, and a mutual apology session with <a href="https://www.drawnandquarterly.com/sabrina" target="_blank">Nick Drnaso</a>, and chatting with <a href="http://www.tintopress.com/" target="_blank">Ted Intorcio</a>, and eating a few of <a href="http://aaronrenier.com/" target="_blank">Aaron Renier</a>'s gigantic Potato Chips, it was time to go.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t4fefwJyAYAtvSlugINPC0O1yiEsj4mmxd3ZhqvZlSM_VtkVqEarwggvvIHZL9QZh1st6LkZ_XOvA07-W-x1UHFY6DmSlaXhRM0yTXtol1m_CSdvddytDMcKPBQVps1rK4b8wLy7fww/s1600/39990264_10209937664797411_263114811859009536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2t4fefwJyAYAtvSlugINPC0O1yiEsj4mmxd3ZhqvZlSM_VtkVqEarwggvvIHZL9QZh1st6LkZ_XOvA07-W-x1UHFY6DmSlaXhRM0yTXtol1m_CSdvddytDMcKPBQVps1rK4b8wLy7fww/s320/39990264_10209937664797411_263114811859009536_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aaron Renier illustrates the Wisconsin Food Pyramid: Beer and something deep-fried.</td></tr>
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Zak and I met up at his house where I was leapt upon by the bundle of nervous, unbridled energy known as Polly the Dog, or as I came to call her, Lynette. We stayed up til 2 AM talking about drugs, Buddhism, relationships, money, noise, dogs, and life. I had the choice of either the couch or Zak's son's bed. It was determined that if I chose the bed, Polly could join me. So I got in bed, slapped the sheets and exchanged slobbery dog kisses for belly-rubs all night long.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss Lynette "Da Lovebug" Sally.</td></tr>
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And there you have it, kids: comics will break your heart, but they'll also lead to lifelong friendships, big laughs, and, possibly, tongue baths.<br />
<br />
Next morning -- coffee, gas, and on the road. Through rain so intense outside of Madison that I ended up on an off-ramp because the roadsigns were unreadable. It was slow going, but I was home. Gibby gave me jazz hands and Iris snorked my arm... I took a shower to wash the road off of me, and got into bed. I turn fifty in three weeks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>*Cartoonists and Comics Industry Peeps: Always, ALWAYS, get your receipts and write this shit off your taxes. The less money you pay in taxes the less bombs they can drop on innocent brown people.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>**I should mention that I would never hold it against a fast food worker for any seeming unruliness, exasperation, sadness, anger, or despair. That's a tough life, folks. Cut 'em some slack.</i>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-40684893699237062972018-06-19T12:44:00.000-05:002018-09-24T11:24:15.952-05:00KING-CAT 78 AVAILABLE NOW!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Hey everyone, King-Cat 78 is at the printer! Subscriber/Patreon copies will be going out ASAP. If you would otherwise like to (pre)order just one copy of this issue, the best way is to PayPal the money to me directly, as follows:<br />
<br />
<b>USA: $6.50</b><br />
<b>CANADA: $7.20 USD</b><br />
<b>REST OF WORLD: $8.75 USD</b><br />
<b></b><br />
<b>Payable via PayPal to: kingcat_paypal AT Hotmail DOT com</b><br />
<b></b><br />
If you want to order KC 78 along with other books, please visit <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/">www.spitandahalf.com</a>.<br />
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Thank you!<br />
John P.<br />
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- - - </div>
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King-Cat 78 features lots of funny animal stories like “A Story About Ninny,” “Lady Tuff ‘n’ Tender,” and “Nighttime Encounter with the Void”; tons of Nature Notes featuring Monarch Butterfly Lifecycle and “Shrews Thru History”; an extensive letters section with notes from T.E. Bak, Megan Kelso, and more; plus poetry, Top 40, a Zen Story, and the Usual Gang of Schtuff. 40 digest pages in eye-catching black and white. (Spit and a Half)<br />
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<br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-81501904241918014542018-03-31T09:18:00.001-05:002018-03-31T09:18:42.432-05:00FROM LONE MOUNTAIN Available Now!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hey everyone, my latest KCat collection from D+Q is out now!<br />
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<b>FROM LONE MOUNTAIN</b> compiles issues 62-68 of King-Cat (2003-2007), along with a selection of previously unpublished strips and detailed commentary. It features such classic stories as “Trombones No. 1,” “Great Western Sky,” The Sound of the Birds,” “Like a Pigeon,” “Iowa City,” “Las Hojas/Football Weather,” “Freeman Kame,” and the first batch of Diogenes comics. Every page of the original zines is reproduced in order including front and back covers, letters columns, Snornose pages, and Top 40’s. Also includes the standalone zines <i>3 Poems About Fog</i> and <i>The Ones That Everybody Knows</i>. 308 pages, 6″ x 9″, two color cover, black and white interiors.<br />
<br />You can purchase it from your favorite bookseller, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lone-Mountain-John-Porcellino/dp/1770462953" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, <a href="https://drawnandquarterly.com/lone-mountain" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">D+Q</a>, or even directly from me at <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/from-lone-mountain-by-john-porcellino/" target="_blank">Spit and a Half</a>. I'll also of course have copies with me at my upcoming festival appearances.<br />
<br />D+Q's Tom Devlin writes about FLM <a href="https://drawnandquarterly.com/blog/2018/03/lone-mountain-here" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> and Charles Hatfield has an extensive review up at <a href="http://www.tcj.com/reviews/from-lone-mountain-king-cat-comics-stories-2003-2007/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TCJ</a>.<br />
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<b>Thank you!</b> And don't forget I'll be on the road a bit reading from the book. Full tour dates can be found <a href="http://johnporcellino.blogspot.com/p/upcoming-events.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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LOVE - John P.<br />
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<br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-40930681064504601502018-02-05T19:27:00.001-06:002018-02-05T19:29:01.399-06:00FROM LONE MOUNTAIN Tour DatesHi all, I'm old and tired and will only be doing a small tour in support of my new D+Q book, <b><i>From Lone Mountain</i></b> (available March 20!). Please see below for dates. I would love to see you if you're able to come out and say hi!<br />
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LOVE, John P.<br />
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<br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-36519537065382952282018-01-16T09:18:00.002-06:002018-01-16T17:34:47.104-06:002017/2018 YEAR IN P/REVIEW<br />
2017 was a hell of a year, and we all know it. On the personal side I spent much of it dealing with family health issues, which was hard too. I was always an idealist, but never an optimist. I don't know what this new year will bring, but let's hope somehow it's better than the last one.<br />
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Comics-wise, it was busy for me. In the spring I published <b>King-Cat 77</b> and Jenny Zervakis' <i><b>Complete Strange Growths</b></i> book in quick succession. Then in the fall I put out a new edition of Pascal Girard's sweet and funny <b><i>Apartment Number Three. </i></b>Additionally, the fine folks at Uncivilized Books published my<b><i> South Beloit Journal. </i></b>These can all be purchased online at the <b><a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/" target="_blank">Spit and a Half distro</a></b> site.<br />
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Speaking of the distro, it continues to grow not only in size, but in the time it requires of me. I'll turn 50 this year and at some point I will need to refocus my attention on my own comics. But the distro is also such a big part of who I am, and how I want to function in this world. It's tough to balance.<br />
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Balance may be my key word of 2018. Things are out of hand -- in the world, in my head -- and I'm looking to restore some steadiness. On my <b><a href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino" target="_blank">Patreon page</a></b> I wrote recently about the three things that have never let me down in this life: Zines, Nature, and Zen. As the world outside rumbles off its axis, I'm finding myself in retreat towards these grounding forces in my life. I also have the feeling that I'm running out of time. Fifty is young in most terms, but not for Porcellinos. I'm hoping I have fifteen more years. Anything beyond that will be gravy. If I'm looking at the limits of life in the suddenly foreseeable future, I need to make some serious decisions about what that life is going to entail. I feel like I'm on the cusp of change again.<br />
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One of the changes I plan to make is to limit my time spent on social media. In many ways social media was made for me as an artist. I love to share, to communicate, and especially in the form of small tidbits and little asides. But the rise of anti-rationality, argumentativeness, and snark on social media is depressing to me. I'll still be online on Facebook, and Twitter, and Instagram, etc etc, but in a less interactive way. If I can swing it. Addictions are hard to kick.<br />
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Meanwhile, this blog has languished somewhat. I hope to come back to it again this year and begin posting more things here rather than on other more corporate platforms. Look for my "Fave Comics of 2016" (!) list shortly, and then my 2017 List soon after.<br />
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I have <b>King-Cat 78</b> in its wrapping-up phase, and hope to publish it in February. After that, the next two issues are already conceived and I should be able to get a lot of work done on them quickly, with at least one of them also being published in 2018. And my next D+Q book, <b><i><a href="https://drawnandquarterly.com/lone-mountain" target="_blank">From Lone Mountain</a></i></b>, will be published in March, collecting King-Cats no. 62-68, plus bonus material.<br />
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So, we'll see. Thanks for all your support this last year, and all these years. It means the world to me.<br />
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Talk soon,<br />
John P.<br />
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<br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-68761941756044872982017-09-22T12:30:00.000-05:002017-09-22T12:31:08.163-05:00SOUTH BELOIT JOURNAL (2017)<br />
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<b>HEY FOLKS!</b></div>
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It's out! -- You can order my "new" comic <b>SOUTH BELOIT JOURNAL</b> now, at the Spit and a Half site:</div>
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<a data-ft="{"tn":"-U"}" data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spitandahalf.com%2Fproduct%2Fsouth-beloit-journal-by-john-porcellino%2F&h=ATM9f7BAxVfoPVJFz8JpdGRBhD9B8XKUja4W8uNhrNj2iu0We52yIY__cMXiX9NI5wVnCnaoXjutkDaRwdRKsuMV1Da-uJstTeiBU9LgDhA_bApdzJcLRuyYgUTsOxgo9iCoMcybjkBUB-Ca_VOJ0TeWin5vjdLz-GVdic4NhnIKpWZYIypPfuLz8KMR1bl9xvs-LfcbjPp7M5eJU5_HBdwODFt1Wg-oXAkiSnl1jGcDtDAmkDFdDWIDoFzdaZBfnvAlS_M3bpIKh-c_-giLQlG1kHYADumLnSnW2VN3" href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/south-beloit-journal-by-john-porcellino/" target="_blank">http://www.spitandahalf.com/…/south-beloit-journal-by-john…/</a></div>
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If you're a <b>Patreon</b> supporter at $5+ per month you'll be receiving a copy via mail in several weeks, along with the Spit and a Half edition of Pascal Girard's <b>APARTMENT NUMBER THREE</b>. If you'd like to sign up for my Patreon, you can do so here: <a data-ft="{"tn":"-U"}" data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.patreon.com%2Fjohnporcellino&h=ATNi4BSHMGFfRBApw0Xglv-BykUiOA3hi4G0i3-dO-h3sULFhTKawJdhGaliv5-F-cx428Zfr_-svjG_fpFoD6-Et_-vqF8DHVKKdXv2jInCKFbzKi_Iqu1z5CCsQ7A_gR2E-waJdJhzyKA9575lYDFZXJTwYPiVRASn2LiwD8gZQoHTa-ElzOMKGDhp_cJsvlOfbV_Tct9PGrVG14wDfYZ5n9mLLQe1nwu6lCaQeAweBil3NhEsl_SotJYpizAbb5Pj3AUmyvPsZTcOJu3DocaFH0JNUbPxXsk5LMBH" href="http://www.patreon.com/johnporcellino" target="_blank">www.patreon.com/johnporcellino</a></div>
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Thanks!</div>
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John P.</div>
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<i>"Over the winter of 2010-2011 I found myself at the lowest point of my life: Twice divorced, heartbroken, mentally insane, and living in poverty and isolation in a cold, grey cinderblock apartment in a small, gritty town in Northern Illinois… South Beloit.</i><br />
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<i>One of my projects at the time was illustrating a book about suicide, </i><b><a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/the-next-day-by-john-porcellino-jason-gilmore-and-paul-peterson/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Next Day</a><i>,</i></b><i> for the Canadian publisher Pop Sandbox. As I trimmed the pages to size, I found myself with ninety-one 2” x 6” scraps of Bristol board. They looked perfect for a comic strip, so I began drawing upon them one little diary comic per day. I tried not to censor myself (though sometimes I still did), but to just let the ink spill without preconception or prejudice. </i><b>South Beloit Journal</b><i> collects these strips."</i><br />
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40 pages, 6.5″ x 8″, two color covers, black and white interiors. (Uncivilized Books)<br />
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<i>(</i><b>Apartment Number Three</b><i>, Pascal Girard's lovely, funny comic from 2011, will be back in print soon!)</i></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><u></u><i></i><i></i><br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-65490149900992751702017-09-15T19:43:00.000-05:002017-09-15T19:46:18.818-05:00SPX and BEYOND<br />
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Hi everyone,<br />
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I won't be able to make it down to <b><a href="http://www.spxpo.com/" target="_blank">SPX</a></b> this year in person, but <b><a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/" target="_blank">Spit and a Half</a></b> will be staking out a corner of the <b><a href="http://www.kilgorebooks.com/" target="_blank">Kilgore Books</a></b> table <b>(I 8-9)</b> where <b>Jenny Zervakis</b> will be selling copies of her acclaimed* <b><a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/the-complete-strange-growths-1991-1997-by-jenny-zervakis/" target="_blank">COMPLETE STRANGE GROWTHS</a></b> collection, and there'll be recent issues of<b> King-Cat for sale</b>, including the new one, #77. Please drop by and check it out. Jenny would be happy to sign your book for you!<br />
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<br />
Since <a href="http://johnporcellino.blogspot.com/2016/04/" target="_blank"><b>last year's debacle</b></a> I've told myself I will only do one "long distance" show per year from here on out, and this year that show is <b><a href="http://cartooncrossroadscolumbus.com/" target="_blank">CXC</a></b> in Columbus, to be held Sept. 30 - Oct. 1. I'll be tabling with good ol' Zak Sally at that show.<br />
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Then a few weeks later I'll be at the <b><a href="https://www.stlouissmallpressexpo.com/" target="_blank">Saint Louis Small Press Expo</a></b> on October 14, followed by my annual final show of the year, <b><a href="http://milwaukeezinefest.org/2016/index.php" target="_blank">Milwaukee Zine Fest</a></b> (Date TBA).<br />
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See you there!<br />
John P.<br />
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*"Book of the Year!" -- Frank Santoro, <i>Comics Workbook</i><br />
<i></i>"Book of the Year!" -- Ron Regé, Jr., Author of <i>The Cartoon Utopia</i>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-26683993167574164742017-05-10T20:21:00.001-05:002017-05-10T20:23:15.021-05:00KING-CAT #77 AVAILABLE NOW!<br />
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Hey everyone,<br />
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I just got the boxes from the printer, and <b>King-Cat #77</b> is now available for purchase!<br />
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It's 40 digest pages loaded with dogs, cats, possums, mountain lions, moths, frogs, and toads, in stories including Night of the Living Possums, Bee/Bike Story, Big Cats in Illinois (and Wisconsin) Exist!, Caterpillar Story, Fluttering Moth, plus an adaptation of Edgar Lee Masters' poem "Willie Metcalf," and more! (40 digest pages, black and white throughout)<br />
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To order a single issue of <b>King-Cat #77</b>, costs (including shipping/handling) are as follows:<br />
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<b>USA: $6.50</b><br />
<b>CANADA: $7.20 USD</b><br />
<b>REST OF WORLD: $8.75 USD</b><br />
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Via PayPal to kingcat_paypal AT hotmail DOT com<br />
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If you're in the US you can also send cash/check/mo payable to:<br />
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"John Porcellino"<br />
PO Box 142<br />
South Beloit, IL 61080<br />
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<b>If you would like to order KC 77 along with other items, please use the convenient online shopping cart at <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/king-cat-77-by-john-porcellino/" target="_blank">SPIT AND A HALF</a>. </b><br />
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Thank you!<br />
John P.<br />
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<br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-86649221768038436192017-05-05T07:54:00.000-05:002017-05-05T07:55:28.392-05:00MORNING GLORY RESTAURANT PRINT (STRANGE GROWTHS FUNDRAISER #3)<br />
Wow, after a whole lot of fits and starts, the <b>COMPLETE STRANGE GROWTHS</b> by Jenny Zervakis is at the printer! Barring any unforeseen difficulties, it will be debuting at CAKE in June in Chicago. Jenny will even be on hand at the <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/" target="_blank">Spit and a Half</a> table to sign copies! (See below for info about the book...)<br />
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I'm still raising money to cover the printing expenses, and am offering the following prints for those who may be interested. This is a design I've had in the back of my mind since last year. I finally put it together for a benefit art show organized by Matt Davis of Chicago's <a href="http://perfectly-acceptable.com/" target="_blank">Perfectly Acceptable Press</a>.<br />
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Based on the complete drawing I made for the cover of King-Cat #76, this is a memorial print of the <b>Morning Glory Family Restaurant</b> of Machesney Park, Illinois, which recently closed after a great many years of service to the community.<br />
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The image s available in two editions, one is the limited (25 copies) risograph run printed by Mr. Davis himself. The print is in black and metallic gold on a nice soft off-white paper, with an OFFICIAL™ Stamp of Authenticity on the reverse, and signed and numbered (again, on the reverse) by yours truly. The print measures 11" x 16" and is Suitable for Framing®.<br />
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<b> Morning Glory Restaurant, Machesney Park, Illinois</b></div>
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<b>Black and Gold Risograph, 11" x 16"</b></div>
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<b>Edition of 25</b></div>
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<b>Prices include Shipping:</b></div>
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<b>USA: $38.00</b></div>
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<b>CANADA: $40.00</b><br />
<b>REST OF WORLD: $45.00</b><br />
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Payment via PayPal to kingcat_paypal AT hotmail DOT com</div>
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Thank you!!!</div>
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The second version is a hi-res inkjet print in black ink, made at home by your humble narrator, 8.5" x 11", printed on this delightful gold-foil embossed paper I got at Walmart. Signed and dated on the reverse, this is an unlimited edition. I'll make as many as I need for those who want one. And it's Suitable for Framing®, natch.<br />
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<b>Morning Glory Restaurant, Machesney Park, Illinois</b></div>
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<b>Black ink on gold embossed paper, 8.5" x 11"</b></div>
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<b>Unlimited edition</b></div>
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<b>Prices include Shipping:</b></div>
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<b>USA: $23.00</b></div>
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<b>CANADA: $30.00</b><br />
<b>REST OF WORLD: $35.00</b><br />
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Payment via PayPal to kingcat_paypal AT hotmail DOT com<br />
Thank you!!!<br />
<br />
Questions: johnp_kingcat AT hotmail DOT com<br />
<br />
<b>Still some cool old King-Cats available from our previous fundraiser! Click <a href="http://johnporcellino.blogspot.com/2017/04/old-and-rare-king-cats-strange-growths.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</b><br />
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<b>ABOUT <i>THE COMPLETE STRANGE GROWTHS</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyYKiD9eWfJwvk6KEozzgt_h5GIfxwmlxD1eNo5dDfF-I5QoJ1bH_B8G4WTCFyo7OBQmvFbNF0AWwPZtj5mJOVqkVGFDiNPjfRkesWcVPjOFIIokqg36l_YSyAEI7rtcDMWCJUL41ftE/s1600/SG-cover--Keeli-for-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyYKiD9eWfJwvk6KEozzgt_h5GIfxwmlxD1eNo5dDfF-I5QoJ1bH_B8G4WTCFyo7OBQmvFbNF0AWwPZtj5mJOVqkVGFDiNPjfRkesWcVPjOFIIokqg36l_YSyAEI7rtcDMWCJUL41ftE/s400/SG-cover--Keeli-for-web.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
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Jenny Zervakis is one of the great unsung creators of 1990's DIY comics. Her zine<i> Strange Growths</i> was gentle and sincere at a time when most alt-comics were loud and sarcastic. They were poetic and allusive, delving into the heart of the human experience, and they were one of my biggest influences as a cartoonist.</div>
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In 1997, as the <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/" target="_blank">Spit and a Half distro</a> grew, I had plans to begin publishing a series of nice but simple book collections of my favorite underground cartoonists, and Jenny was at the top of that short list. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter, I fell seriously ill and had to spend the next 10 or 12 years focusing on my health issues. So this publishing venture was delayed... for twenty years!</div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b><b><i>The Complete Strange Growths, 1991-1997</i></b> will be approximately 240 pages, and collect the entirety of <i>Strange Growths</i> numbers1-13, plus an assortment of rare comics from anthologies, and a new interview with Jenny conducted by Robert Clough. It should debut this June at CAKE in Chicago.</div>
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John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-74407489654579277752017-04-24T14:38:00.001-05:002020-06-30T12:28:25.063-05:00OLD AND RARE KING-CATS (STRANGE GROWTHS FUNDRAISER #2)<br />
Hi Everyone, I'm still in the process of collecting funds to cover the publication of Spit and a Half's first book form publication: <b><i>The Complete Strange Growths, 1991-1997</i>, by Jenny Zervakis</b>. The <a href="http://johnporcellino.blogspot.com/2017/02/affirm-strange-growths-fundraiser-1.html" target="_blank">AFFIRM print sale</a> raised around $600, and I'll be conducting a few more fundraisers in the weeks to come.<br />
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Below, I'm offering for sale a number of <b>Highly Collectable™</b> and <b>Potentially Lucrative®*</b> <b>OLD KING-CATS</b> from my office stash.<br />
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These are in very limited numbers, so if you are interested, please write to me first at johnp_kingcat AT hotmail DOT com to confirm availability.<br />
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Thank you for your support!<br />
John P.<br />
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<b>ABOUT <i>THE COMPLETE STRANGE GROWTHS</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyYKiD9eWfJwvk6KEozzgt_h5GIfxwmlxD1eNo5dDfF-I5QoJ1bH_B8G4WTCFyo7OBQmvFbNF0AWwPZtj5mJOVqkVGFDiNPjfRkesWcVPjOFIIokqg36l_YSyAEI7rtcDMWCJUL41ftE/s1600/SG-cover--Keeli-for-web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyYKiD9eWfJwvk6KEozzgt_h5GIfxwmlxD1eNo5dDfF-I5QoJ1bH_B8G4WTCFyo7OBQmvFbNF0AWwPZtj5mJOVqkVGFDiNPjfRkesWcVPjOFIIokqg36l_YSyAEI7rtcDMWCJUL41ftE/s400/SG-cover--Keeli-for-web.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
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<br />
Jenny Zervakis is one of the great unsung creators of 1990's DIY comics. Her zine<i> Strange Growths</i> was gentle and sincere at a time when most alt-comics were loud and sarcastic. They were poetic and allusive, delving into the heart of the human experience, and they were one of my biggest influences as a cartoonist.<br />
<br />
In 1997, as the <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/" target="_blank">Spit and a Half distro</a> grew, I had plans to begin publishing a series of nice but simple book collections of my favorite underground cartoonists, and Jenny was at the top of that short list. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter, I fell seriously ill and had to spend the next 10 or 12 years focusing on my health issues. So this publishing venture was delayed... for twenty years!<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>The Complete Strange Growths, 1991-1997</i></b> will be approximately 240 pages, and collect the entirety of <i>Strange Growths</i> numbers1-13, plus an assortment of rare comics from anthologies, and a new interview with Jenny conducted by Robert Clough. It should debut this June at CAKE in Chicago.<br />
<br />
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<b>I'm selling the following old issues of King-Cat to raise funds for publication.</b></div>
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<b>(Add $5 shipping per order in the US) </b><br />
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<b>International Customers:</b> I'll figure the cheapest way to get the books to your location and let you know the cost. Please include your mailing address when writing.</div>
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These books are in good shape, but may have a few dings, dents and corner folds. Best copies go to the earliest purchasers! Many issues contain oddities that have never been collected, like letters pages, Snornose pages, ads, photos, and other ephemera. ("Uncensored" pages are those which I edited for the book collections, usually to remove potentially litigable content.)</div>
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<b>KING-CAT #27</b></div>
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<b>The Second Racky Raccoon Issue</b></div>
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<b>June 1991</b></div>
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The funniest King-Cat ever features Racky Raccoon eating a radioactive sour grape gumball and growing to enormous size. My tribute to the Jack Kirby monster comics of the early 1960's. Contains six uncollected pages. 16 page digest. <b><span style="color: red;">SOLD OUT!</span></b></div>
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<b>KING-CAT #48</b></div>
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<b>Nuts and Bolts</b></div>
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<b>May 1995</b></div>
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Contains "Nuts and Bolts," "Barr Lake Story," "Hello Death/Goodbye New Wave," and many more. Includes four uncensored pages. 20 digest pages.<b> </b><b><span style="color: red;">SOLD OUT!</span></b></div>
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<b>KING-CAT #53</b></div>
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<b>Perfect Example Volume II</b></div>
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<b>February 1998</b></div>
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The second half of the story later collected as <i>Perfect Example</i>, features "The Fourth of July" and "Celebrated Summer," and includes two uncollected/uncensored pages. 44 digest pages.<b> <strike>ELEVEN </strike>SIX COPIES AVAILABLE! $15.00</b></div>
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<b>KING-CAT #55</b></div>
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<b>The Owl</b></div>
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<b>June 1999</b></div>
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Contains "Prick Test," "Spring Signs" One and Two, "Eyeball Lesson," "Ryokan's Moon," "The Owl" (collected in <i>Diary of a Mosquito Abatement Man</i> TPB), and much more. One uncensored page. 28 page digest. <b><span style="color: red;">SOLD OUT!</span></b></div>
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<b>KING-CAT #56</b></div>
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<b>Punt No Tell</b></div>
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<b>December 1999</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Contains the book length "Punt No Tell," plus "Busy Bee," and Letters to the Editor. 28 page digest, includes extended uncensored sequence.<b> <span style="color: red;">SOLD OUT!</span></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>KING-CAT #57</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Psalm</b></div>
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<b>August 2000</b></div>
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Includes "Psalm," "Spiritual Light," "Spotlight on Pill Bugs," and much more. 32 digest pages, two uncensored/uncollected pages. <b><strike>FOUR</strike> <span style="color: red;">SOLD OUT!</span></b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>KING-CAT #61</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Shoppin' with Ma</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>September 2002</b></div>
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Includes "Shoppin' with Ma" parts One and Two, "Bird Story," "First Hot Night," and more, including the rare, easily lost <i>The Kukoc Cat Named Maisie</i> mini-zine. 24 digest pages, pus 24 page mini.<b> <strike>FIVE </strike>TWO COPIES AVAILABLE. $35</b></div>
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<b>KING-CAT #62</b></div>
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<b>The Sound of the Birds</b></div>
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<b>August 2003</b></div>
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Includes "The Sound of the Birds," "Long Day," "Fabyan Street Bridge," and more. 32 digest pages. <b><span style="color: red;">SOLD OUT!</span></b></div>
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<b>KING-CAT # 68</b></div>
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<b>Cloud Mountain</b></div>
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<b>October 1997</b></div>
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Includes "Cloud Mountain" parts One and Two, "7 Weeks of Snow," "Anthill," Breathe," multiple Diogenes Stories, Warm Light," and more. 36 digest pages. To be collected in From Lone Mountain, Fall 2017. <b>ONLY <strike>THREE </strike>TWO AVAILABLE. <span style="color: red;">SOLD OUT!</span></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><span style="color: red;"></span><br />
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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! John P.</div>
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<i>*Not all King-Cats go up in value. Some go down. WAY down.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-24231447642831837182017-02-28T12:31:00.000-06:002017-03-19T13:58:02.256-05:00AFFIRM (STRANGE GROWTHS FUNDRAISER #1)<br />
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<br />
Dear Everyone,<br />
<br />
Back in 2005 I did a nice letterpress print with Alvin Buenaventura. A few of these went out into the world, but for the most part the project was lost to time. With Alvin's passing last year I got in contact with his family to see about the fate of some of his Pigeon Press publications and pick them up for the Spit and a Half distro (<i>Sir Alfred #3</i> by Tim Hensley, <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/worst-behaviour-by-simon-hanselmann/" target="_blank"><i>Worst Behaviour</i></a> by Simon Hanselmann, <a href="http://www.spitandahalf.com/product/facility-integrity-by-nick-maandag/" target="_blank"><i>Facility Integrity</i></a> by Nick Maandag, etc). At the time it was also confirmed that the family had located a stash of my 2005 prints.<br />
<br />
They generously donated these to me, and now I'd like to offer them to King-Cat fans as part of a fundraising drive to help with the publication of the Jenny Zervakis <i>Strange Growths</i> collection this summer.<br />
<br />
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<br />
Jenny Zervakis is one of the great unsung creators of 1990's DIY comics. Her zine <i>Strange Growths</i> was gentle and sincere at a time when most alt-comics were loud and sarcastic. They were poetic and allusive, delving into the heart of the human experience and they were one of my biggest influences as a cartoonist.<br />
<br />
In 1997 as the original distro grew, I had plans to begin publishing a series of nice but simple book collections of some of my favorite underground cartoonists, and Jenny was at the top of that short list. Unfortunately, shortly thereafter I fell seriously ill and spent the next 10 or 12 years focusing on my health issues, and this publishing venture had to be delayed. For twenty years!<br />
<br />
<b><i>The Complete Strange Growths 1990-1997</i></b> will be approximately 224 pages, and collect the entirety of <i>Strange Growths</i> 1-13, plus bonus comics and a new interview with Jenny conducted by Robert Clough. The book will debut at <a href="http://www.cakechicago.com/" target="_blank">CAKE </a>in Chicago this June.<br />
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In the meantime we're beginning to raise funds for publication. If you buy one of these Buenaventura prints, proceeds will go directly to the Strange Growths fund. A bit further down the line I'll be offering a preorder book sale, which will include some premiums from Jenny (color prints, drawings etc).<br />
<br />
Supplies of the print are very limited, so <i><b>please email me at johnp_kingcat AT hotmail DOT com before sending money.</b></i> Thank you!<br />
<br />
John P.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>AFFIRM letterpress print by John Porcellino and Buenaventura Press, 2005</b></div>
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<b>Edition of 100 plus artist's proofs</b><br />
<b>Approx. 9 inches x 8 inches </b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>SOLD OUT! THANKS EVERYONE!</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please write to confirm availability before sending payment!</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>COST, INCLUDING SHIPPING:</b></u><br />
<b>USA:</b> $35.00<br />
<b>CANADA: </b>$42.00 USD<br />
<b>REST OF WORLD:</b> $46.00 USD<br />
<br />
Payable via PayPal to kingcat_paypal AT hotmail DOT com<br />
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<br />
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<br />John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-49174280525161383852017-02-14T11:19:00.000-06:002017-02-14T11:20:07.042-06:00DAHLOV IPCAR: 1917-2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Word has come that the great children's book artist and writer Dahlov Ipcar has passed away, seven months short of her 100th birthday.<br />
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She was one of my favorite artists as a child. The cover of the
forthcoming King-Cat #77 was drawn in tribute to her, and in working on it I
pulled out some of the old Scholastic Books editions of her work that I’ve
owned since I was a kid… I was surprised and delighted to see how big of an
almost unconscious influence she’d had on my own work. I had no idea she was
still alive while I was drawing it. <br />
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Tucker Stone of No Brow Books has shared the following remembrance (via Facebook and <a href="http://www.tcj.com/98611-2/" target="_blank"><i>The Comics Journal</i></a>), and posted a <a href="https://vimeo.com/98166431" target="_blank">short video</a> made a few years back in her studio. A treasure. <br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"A few years ago, pretty soon after I started at Nobrow, my
friend Jason and I drove to Georgetown
Maine and interviewed Dahlov
Ipcar, who was 96 at the time, about her children’s books that we were getting
ready to re-issue via Flying Eye. She was electric: 96 years old, living alone
(it was her elderly son’s job to supply her with groceries), very direct, funny
and acerbic as hell. I loved her. I wrote her letters afterwards (that was her
preferred method of contact with me) whenever I had something of note to tell
her about my work on her books, and I spoke to her a few times on the phone to
set up some interviews and assist her with supplying books for events she would
do at a local children’s hospital. She was always on top of it, and funny in a
crusty, tough way that belied decades of commitment to craft and hardcore
farmhouse living. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>She just passed away, which was expected. I am sorry to her
family for that, but I know how incredibly proud her sons were to work with
her, and how much she loved and missed her husband, who passed away himself
decades ago. Her life was lived as fully as one could dream of –a family she
loved, and an art she devoted herself too. One of the first things that she
told Jason and I when we arrived to make the attached video was that she had no
interest in living to be 100 years old–as she put it, she was tired of spending
so much of her morning going to the bathroom–and that was only the first of
many things that made us laugh. </i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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<i>I just checked. Her 100th birthday would have been this
November. Nice work, Dahlov."</i></div>
</blockquote>
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--Tucker Stone</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="239" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/98166431" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="425"></iframe><br />
<a href="https://vimeo.com/98166431">Dahlov Ipcar</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/user2666906">Nobrow Ltd</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
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Thank you Mrs. Ipcar.</div>
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John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1409024994922908431.post-10317227968083211492016-12-28T09:04:00.000-06:002016-12-28T09:05:57.094-06:00(Some of my) FAVORITE COMICS OF 2015They say that timing is everything, and in this age of nanosecond attention spans and constantly refreshing newsfeeds that's more true than ever. So it's with great delight that I present here a brief and certainly incomplete list of <b>Some of My Favorite Comics of <i>2015</i>.</b><br />
<br />
Every year more and more cool comics are released in droves, and every year I have less time to read them. But I buy them, and they stack up in boxes and overflowing shelves waiting for that moment when I can retire from the daily grind and sit down and read all those DeForge books. And mark my words, friends -- <i>That day shall come.</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GA2GDp32zSIxN4xfdRct6_VCqQxtOzLXc3_qh6aTzHfeFYYenMcC_KveutSdGklrPfASLLvTW7Vp8dB0G4qhqoCHjrUAMl85WZMdtGREOoxqZjwEqVDiKefj-y3sovP90LGwHbhBda4/s1600/EGS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GA2GDp32zSIxN4xfdRct6_VCqQxtOzLXc3_qh6aTzHfeFYYenMcC_KveutSdGklrPfASLLvTW7Vp8dB0G4qhqoCHjrUAMl85WZMdtGREOoxqZjwEqVDiKefj-y3sovP90LGwHbhBda4/s200/EGS.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<b><i>Extra Good Stuff</i> by Dennis Eichhorn and Various (Last Gasp)</b> More from the genius storyteller Dennis P. Eichhorn, released shortly before his death. <i>Extra Good Stuff </i>(like 2014's <i>Real Good Stuff</i>) teams Eichhorn up with some of the hottest, brightest cartoonists going today (Noah Van Sciver, Max Clotfelter, Tom Van Deusen, Aaron Lange) as well as old time favorites like Mary Fleener and Triangle Slash. A blast from the past blowing open the doors of today! Or something. Excellent.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMkpFBjIpVVPU0QzLLzRaAyyyV1tq-kFuD0yKnZal-xJa_87yeeA5bavkV39eg5IYmDN12Smki48i1_VkCzpZb9Ksd7mTIMy7yUE1qRMm5B7nPmK__-nGG00b9NOb1vfOwKXF_AAHqyw/s1600/Hairy+Who.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMkpFBjIpVVPU0QzLLzRaAyyyV1tq-kFuD0yKnZal-xJa_87yeeA5bavkV39eg5IYmDN12Smki48i1_VkCzpZb9Ksd7mTIMy7yUE1qRMm5B7nPmK__-nGG00b9NOb1vfOwKXF_AAHqyw/s200/Hairy+Who.jpg" width="141" /></a></div>
<b><i>The Complete Hairy Who Publications</i> edited by Dan Nadel (Matthew Marks Gallery)</b> It's hard to wrap my mind around the sudden increase in interest, or at least in publication, of the Hairy Who, some of the most influential but underappreciated artists of the late 20th Century. Decidedly unhip at a time when conceptual and minimalist art was in fashion, in the late 60's and early 70's this Chicago based artists group produced work that was funky, emotional, bright, weird and graphic, drawing inspiration from everyday life, including comic books. For each of their exhibitions, they produced a catalog that was more of a comic, featuring work from each of the members, Jim Nutt, Karl Wirsum, Gladys Nillson, and this books collects 'em all in ravishing full color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkIN2uZQ4qtFvKtZdMrReind4PPPGcGHR_Z5K1_rRvACdWbB0qmpfxeSZleX1vJVfZv1lqn6bKSv1McHJACkEitQ4dqZWjieNboLMRK4FD-j4rLdMyA9a6i7caqX0Gengok_fGNwfTJlw/s1600/Pussy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkIN2uZQ4qtFvKtZdMrReind4PPPGcGHR_Z5K1_rRvACdWbB0qmpfxeSZleX1vJVfZv1lqn6bKSv1McHJACkEitQ4dqZWjieNboLMRK4FD-j4rLdMyA9a6i7caqX0Gengok_fGNwfTJlw/s200/Pussy.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<b><i>Big Pussy </i>by Gina Wynbrandt (2D Cloud)</b> A hilariously self-abasing and brilliantly acerbic comic from young wunderkind Wynbrandt depicts the artist negotiating life, lust, and love in the Internet Age. Smart, wickedly funny, and transgressive. More comics like this, please!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDdAkt1GAknIyH-W-C59dYRDc1KL2vNQQ9F1sk3ZVjyoUSeME79AhgUMRR5iMwXafdYV46Ak-ifF4DxwpKa8SjvxKS1mcQr0OicysIJ7jvZ5HlhcPxuyJ_gjgfn7o05viJTMYf_aMbuU/s1600/Disa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDdAkt1GAknIyH-W-C59dYRDc1KL2vNQQ9F1sk3ZVjyoUSeME79AhgUMRR5iMwXafdYV46Ak-ifF4DxwpKa8SjvxKS1mcQr0OicysIJ7jvZ5HlhcPxuyJ_gjgfn7o05viJTMYf_aMbuU/s200/Disa.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<b><i>Remember This </i>by Disa Wallander (KUŠ)</b> This funny and gently sardonic story examines our memories: why do we have them, why don't we have them, what do they mean? How does art encapsulate time? That sounds stuffy, but this comic is anything but. A delight.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_BPQYFXNyVCJIKCTEfObit3WeoAwL8xK6jMFjryeYADvxCUg0mYJlQPLSSMAHUDj-mZeO5BBkltz46YAO-P7qcRuc3XgTCAdWAYOPb3kZYOtOflGk4fznyJC2sJCkOuhlfo6ooeZFTw/s1600/MHD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz_BPQYFXNyVCJIKCTEfObit3WeoAwL8xK6jMFjryeYADvxCUg0mYJlQPLSSMAHUDj-mZeO5BBkltz46YAO-P7qcRuc3XgTCAdWAYOPb3kZYOtOflGk4fznyJC2sJCkOuhlfo6ooeZFTw/s200/MHD.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<b><i>My Hot Date</i> by Noah Van Sciver (Kilgore Books) </b>This one could just as easily have been Noah's <i>St. Cole </i>or <i>Fante Bukowski </i>(Fantagraphics), <i>I Don't Hate Your Guts</i> (2D Cloud) or <i>Blammo #8.5</i> (Kilgore). The fact is, no one in comics right now is blasting away skill-wise as breathlessly as Noah Van Sciver. His writing continues to get even better, his drawing effortlessly depicts a real, tangible, livable world with ease and understated power, and now that he's figured out his secret coloring technique, in which colors pop and ebb with distinct and beautiful shadowing and tonal effects, he's simply unstoppable. Noah will bury us all, but at least we get to come along for the ride.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlDR_0bCfoOaSCS7x8AVpOdI_-br9y6xyo1mePsOcgX0yHPeKnhwuCy0j2sEfspGix6RFDg9BQdjDqq_mjS6wm1R79BuX6c3EG_0FaHaDZQc8PQhbS3UoIeyCxVYB9LeJAYuuFBE5RO4/s1600/Ikebana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlDR_0bCfoOaSCS7x8AVpOdI_-br9y6xyo1mePsOcgX0yHPeKnhwuCy0j2sEfspGix6RFDg9BQdjDqq_mjS6wm1R79BuX6c3EG_0FaHaDZQc8PQhbS3UoIeyCxVYB9LeJAYuuFBE5RO4/s200/Ikebana.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<b><i>Ikebana </i>by (Retrofit/Big Planet Comics)</b> The silent protagonist of <i>Ikebana </i>guides us through a humorous look at the foibles of art school and then moves into the "real world" with a ruthless clarity before climaxing in wonder and surreal ambiguity. This short comic is endlessly surprising and deeply affecting, and stayed with me long after I read it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDRTfKbcPpfXcHYtFmIm9G5OOPX2QhG6E7xWo1KOU8lWWK6H3y5KCXehf9pDDdEgHu5vJ07i-gMKsjp5Ax4I4lUvu1BHMGXR-0e1BNqXJvitRg4YZeTCQY0YeKqmTjZwzkpTBogrtYeU/s1600/OMWOT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDRTfKbcPpfXcHYtFmIm9G5OOPX2QhG6E7xWo1KOU8lWWK6H3y5KCXehf9pDDdEgHu5vJ07i-gMKsjp5Ax4I4lUvu1BHMGXR-0e1BNqXJvitRg4YZeTCQY0YeKqmTjZwzkpTBogrtYeU/s200/OMWOT.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Terror Assaulter: OMWOT: One Man War On Terror</i> by Benjamin Marra (Fantagraphics)</b> Marra's ridiculous and pitch perfect satire of masculinity and violence is odd, funny, disturbing, idiotic, and brilliant.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_yzKVq23F7dNaqhHgJS0RUl2QeuR3ENUlVeqGNNQ3n3YfxQZoJ2XE-fMCOt2Xv7y2wV_D7yWl_lweCfHyDrfSqpDgXTapMo3kJ10FoM13CEd0byjfoXzpcXp82rcpK-xOj7LIIzofv8/s1600/Ron+Rege+Comic+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_yzKVq23F7dNaqhHgJS0RUl2QeuR3ENUlVeqGNNQ3n3YfxQZoJ2XE-fMCOt2Xv7y2wV_D7yWl_lweCfHyDrfSqpDgXTapMo3kJ10FoM13CEd0byjfoXzpcXp82rcpK-xOj7LIIzofv8/s200/Ron+Rege+Comic+6.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<b><i>Hey America! Wake the Fuck Up!</i> by Ron Regé Jr. (Self-published online) </b>As Amerika® descends deeper into cruel stupidity and vacuous self-absorption Art can still remind us of who we really are, and who we want to be. Regé's brief response to modern life does not mince words or ideas, but is still full of compassion and heart. Fantastic, powerful, and much-needed.<b> <a href="http://ronregejr.tumblr.com/post/136136362007/i-drew-this-blobby-boys-comic-for-vice-earlier-in" target="_blank">Link</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaC-Ux8_ArK1liMcthQ8h-60InjiWlOQ6i3fh3jPBkcoN7s_N_F76iAjkp9dyq7hg3tRjKXRQGrNwYAUcTuaWx8bXEU0zo-3oOsPIX7VDQjVN_E2TLL7j7cW80a_Fo-m5ZxjdFlc0gyk/s1600/Stroppy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaC-Ux8_ArK1liMcthQ8h-60InjiWlOQ6i3fh3jPBkcoN7s_N_F76iAjkp9dyq7hg3tRjKXRQGrNwYAUcTuaWx8bXEU0zo-3oOsPIX7VDQjVN_E2TLL7j7cW80a_Fo-m5ZxjdFlc0gyk/s200/Stroppy.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<b><i>Stroppy </i>by Marc Bell (Drawn and Quarterly)</b> Marc Bell's first extended foray into comix storytelling in some time is a savagely funny and absurd look at hyper-capitalism and corporate control. Poor Sap Stroppy unwittingly gets mixed up in a Capitalist Poetry scheme, while his evil boss Monsieur Moustache plots his fiendish creative coup. All with Bell's trademark nuttiness and surreal good humor, natch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kSg4sH4vqaC1oBEJl4lGHrCdxbm6tzuO4Mu-lTkk3gPS-53-6V1d00rRfaYE9QysQj3c7BBFO3DAmIcmq6ldjiuhQL178MdAXuop4YeY_puRw7ZqLUuaZSj7mN1AjYaLcpbA_2a-Q4o/s1600/Recid+IV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kSg4sH4vqaC1oBEJl4lGHrCdxbm6tzuO4Mu-lTkk3gPS-53-6V1d00rRfaYE9QysQj3c7BBFO3DAmIcmq6ldjiuhQL178MdAXuop4YeY_puRw7ZqLUuaZSj7mN1AjYaLcpbA_2a-Q4o/s200/Recid+IV.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>Recidivist IV</i> by Zak Sally (La Mano 21)</b> Harkening back to the fuck all days of alternative comics,
when the integrity of one's personal expression was the all-consuming goal of
our art, Recidivist IV is a deeply intense, dense, and difficult guide to one
person's battle with his life and art. Reading the book requires that you sweat
it out in the trenches with the author, and when you finally come out the other
side you've had an undeniable taste of his struggle. A real achievement in a
world where many cartoonists actually seek mediocrity, and ho-hum is often the most one can expect.</div>
John Porcellinohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11857989027423938268noreply@blogger.com0