ComiCentric

In the vast expanse of California, there exists a peculiar phenomenon—one so eerie that even the bravest souls tread cautiously around it. It's not the foggy lakes of Paris, the night DTLA alley rain, or the clear sky alien encounters in Death Valley that send shivers down spines; no, it's the mere mention of THE weather.

In this the Golden State of climatic chaos, where the sun and clouds play an eternal game of tag, asking about the weather is akin’ to invoking’ the spirit of small talk death. Conversations wither, enthusiasm evaporates, and the room falls into an awkward silence. California weather, you see, is not just a topic, it's a saga of unpredictability, a chronicle of climatic capriciousness.

Yet, beneath the surface of this weather-induced dread lies the truth. The shared atmosphere that unites Californians. While small talk might seem as droll as a conversation can get, it's a lifeline, a bridge connecting disparate lives under the same expansive sky.

“HOW’S THE WEATHER?”CALIFORNIA LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT.

Emotionally, some Californians dance, dance and dense denso with the weather. The sun brings joy, the rain melancholy, and the unexpected chill, a touch of atmospheric drama. It's a symphony of meteorological moods, playing out across the palm-lined streets and sun-kissed beaches.

And then, as the sun sets and the stars emerge, weather becomes the silent accomplice to the silver screen. The creepy lake sets the stage for mystery, the night alley rain adds rhythm to thrillers, and the clear sky becomes the canvas for extraterrestrial encounters in the forest of Lost Angeles.

So, dear Comicentric, don't ask a Californian about the weather. Instead, marvel at its unpredictability, complement its sporadic beauty, for there truly ain't no weather like Californian weather—an atmospheric enigma that binds, baffles, and sometimes, just sometimes, brings a touch magic to our everyday mundane life.



xoxOX

CRUZ

ALSO DONT FORGET THIS FRIDAY the 13th @NOSTALGIC COMICS.

We start out this week Comicentric with a spooky treat. … our faces~! WOooooOOOooo. This is the first time we do a zoom podcast. Nathaneil Osollo the curator of

What started as a simple self-promotion gallery project. Turned into a social gallery showcase. A place to showcase your taste without haste. Since the gallery walls inception, we have had a few shows including Dark Mouse, Spiderman art show and the recent Blue Beetle art show. With such artist as:

Teodor Dumitrescu: watercolor, mini paintings, and surreal artist.

Philip McVann: based out of Arizona. Artist, big mac eater.

Bob Kurthy: sketcher, doodler, illustrator, project designer etc.

Mike Castro: photographer and video editor. artist and movie enthusiast.

Rafael Flores: digital artist, illustrator, conceptual artist.

Nathaniel Osollo:  our very own curator and comic creator

And all that beautiful blue beetle art can be worn and adorned by you just head on down to:

https://eyedraugh.threadless.com/

And you can always pick up a shirt to support the artist.

So, if you have time go down to Nostalgic Comic shop before the gallery changes. Oh, wait you thought we were done? SHEEEEEEEEEET! Coming up on October Friday the 13th 2023 at Nostalgic Comics the

Whos going to be there well according to the flyer:

 Erwin Papa

Philip McVann

Mike Castro

Candy Briones

Raymar Brunson

Casey Howard

Sean Lenahan

Jason Lego

Adam Lemnah

So grab your shovel and come dig some awesome art. Do you need a costume for Friday the 13th?  No? but it be a lot cooler if you did.

Again, October Friday the 13th, 2023 at Nostalgic Comics 513 S Del Mar Av. San Gabriel, CA 91776 starting at 4PM. Don’t make me come looking for you!

Ch ch ch ah ah

CRUZ

JIF that jiffing good.

Comicentric Issue 76: Aaaaand I'm out of brothers. With Freddy Cruz

In a cozy little casita in Este of Lost Angeles, there lived a peculiar gatito named Freddy. Now, Freddy wasn't your average feline. He was a weeb through and through, with a particular fondness for the world of Overwatch. When he wasn't busy chasing yarn or napping in sunbeams, you could find him glued to his computer screen, engaged in epic battles with fellow gamers from around the world.
One sunny morning, Freddy's adventurous spirit got the best of him. He decided it was high time to get off his gaming chair and head out for an epic quest, something that went beyond the virtual realms of his favorite game.

He dashed out the door and embarked on his grand adventure.

XOXOX

Cruz

ComiCentric ISSUE 75: I knew the whole time it was Angel Valadez

In the bustling town of Nostalgicville, there lived an angel like no other, aptly named Angel. While his celestial duties often kept him busy, there was one earthly pastime that truly set his heart aflutter: playing the saxophone. Angel's saxophone melodies resonated through the city streets, bringing solace and joy to all who heard.

But Angel's passions didn't end there. He was an unabashed Bat-enthusiast, with a collection of Batman comics that could rival any fan's. His love for the Caped Crusaders and iron avengers extended to the cinematic realm, where he eagerly devoured the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movies. Iron Man, with its blend of genius and heroism, held a special place in his heart as the first MCU movie he ever watched.

One fateful day, Angel received an invitation to be a guest on a podcast, "Comicentric." Excitement bubbled within him as he realized he'd have the chance to discuss his two greatest loves: comics and movies.

Hoping that he would arrive at the podcast studio, saxophone in hand, ready to jam. The hosts, two of his favorite comic clerks turned podcasters, welcomed him with open arms. They talked about their favorite Batman story arcs, dissected MCU plots, and even shared their thoughts on the soothing power of the saxamaphone.

After the podcast recording, Angel returned to his cozy home, where his awesome and adorable girlfriend, Jazley awaited him. She greeted him with a warm smile, knowing that today was special for him. As they cuddled on the couch, Angel couldn't help but feel grateful for the harmonious blend of his earthly and celestial interests, the sweet notes of his saxophone still echoing in his heart.

In the embrace of his love, Angel found his own slice of paradise, where the music of his soul and the adventures of his favorite heroes intertwined to create a life filled with love, joy, and endless wonder.

XOoxXO

CRUZ

ComiCentric ISSUE 73 & 74: How I bamboozled my brother onto the podcast. With Carlos Cruz

In quiet Los Zombietown, lived a rather unconventional zombie named Charley. While most zombies were content with their usual brain-eating habits, Charley was different. He had a peculiar fascination with a short film titled "Night of the Living Bread." In this heartwarming tale, loaves of bread came to life and embarked on a deliciously amusing adventure. Charley couldn't help but watch it over and over, even though his zombie friends didn't quite understand his obsession.

One evening, Charley mused, "I'm just waiting until the day zombies happen, and people are like, yeah…And?" His friends chuckled, thinking he was joking, but Charley's desire for acceptance ran deep.

One fateful day, Charley's older brother, Henry, approached him with a sly grin. "Hey, Charley," he said, "I've got something exciting for you. But it’s at the shop and I need you to come with me. lo and behold he did not know he was to be a guest on sed podcast, Zombiecentric.'"

Charley's eye sockets widened with both excitement and trepidation.  He stammered, "Y-you want me to help you with what?

Henry nodded. "No worries, I will fill you in when we get there don’t worry, you'll be a hit, Charley. You're the cutest zombie in town, after all."

Charley hesitated but eventually agreed. He felt that this was his chance to show that he can help and that zombies could be more than just scary creatures.

As the podcast recording began, Charley, wearing only his Zombest, nervously shuffled into the recording studio. Henry introduced him to the Microphone and asked, "So, Charley, what's your favorite thing about being a zombie?"

Charley took a deep breath and replied, "I love 'Night of the Living Bread.' It shows that even zombie movies can have a sense of humor…”, he continued to spread his love for "Night of the Living Bread" while forging connections that once lay dormant in Henrys head.

The podcast went on for too long, and listeners from all over Los Zombietown had to tune in next week to get the full story...

Will Charley make it out of the podcast alive?

Will Henry realize that making things two partners might not be such a good idea?

This and more next Zombtime same Zombchannel !!

XOXOX

CRUZ

ComiCentric ISSUE 73: How I bamboozled my brother onto the podcast. With Carlos Cruz

In quiet Los Zombietown, lived a rather unconventional zombie named Charley. While most zombies were content with their usual brain-eating habits, Charley was different. He had a peculiar fascination with a short film titled "Night of the Living Bread." In this heartwarming tale, loaves of bread came to life and embarked on a deliciously amusing adventure. Charley couldn't help but watch it over and over, even though his zombie friends didn't quite understand his obsession.

One evening, Charley mused, "I'm just waiting until the day zombies happen, and people are like, yeah…And?" His friends chuckled, thinking he was joking, but Charley's desire for acceptance ran deep.

One fateful day, Charley's older brother, Henry, approached him with a sly grin. "Hey, Charley," he said, "I've got something exciting for you. But it’s at the shop and I need you to come with me. lo and behold he did not know he was to be a guest on sed podcast, Zombiecentric.'"

Charley's eye sockets widened with both excitement and trepidation.  He stammered, "Y-you want me to help you with what?

Henry nodded. "No worries, I will fill you in when we get there don’t worry, you'll be a hit, Charley. You're the cutest zombie in town, after all."

Charley hesitated but eventually agreed. He felt that this was his chance to show that he can help and that zombies could be more than just scary creatures.

As the podcast recording began, Charley, wearing only his Zombest, nervously shuffled into the recording studio. Henry introduced him to the Microphone and asked, "So, Charley, what's your favorite thing about being a zombie?"

Charley took a deep breath and replied, "I love 'Night of the Living Bread.' It shows that even zombie movies can have a sense of humor…”, he continued to spread his love for "Night of the Living Bread" while forging connections that once lay dormant in Henrys head.

The podcast went on for too long, and listeners from all over Los Zombietown had to tune in next week to get the full story...

Will Charley make it out of the podcast alive?

Will Henry realize that making things two partners might not be such a good idea?

This and more next Zombtime same Zombchannel !!

XOXOX

CRUZ

ComiCentric Issue 72 : “The time I meet batman” with Rodolfo Orozco PART 2

Embarking on an exciting journey of exploration, this month unveils a captivating series of mystery guests. Every other week me for the month of august, Pete and I will bring in a mystery guest.  The voyage commences with mystery guests’ number one:

To commence our first enigmatic figure is Rodolfo Orozco, affectionately known as Rudy to those in his inner circle. Distinguished as a member of the East LA CAPE, Rudy adorns multiple hats as an accomplished athlete, a visionary architect, and an unabashed Batman enthusiast.

Rudy's roots trace back to a time when attending ComiCon was far from trendy—it was a devotion. An avid collector of comics and an enthusiast of all things nerdy, Rudy's predilections preceded the mainstream's embrace of such passions. His narrative intertwines seamlessly with that of his dear and oldest friend, Peter, as they embarked on a shared odyssey to the realm of San Deigo.

Junior high bore witness to a pivotal chapter in Rudy's story, as he and Peter united within the folds of a dedicated comic club. A nerd sanctuary in world not yet ready to accept the nerd-ally challenged. United by their enthusiasm, they embarked on pilgrimages to ComiCon, whether squished like sardines within a rented van or ensconced within the confines of a station wagon's trunk—no obstacle deterred their pursuit of comic connoisseurship.

The bond forged through countless hours of nerding out is so profound that it necessitates a bifurcated exploration, deserving of a two-part saga. As the narrative unfolds, Rudy's unique perspective and shared escapades promise to captivate audiences, shining a spotlight on a journey that precedes trends and thrives on unabashed passion.

So come back next week to enjoy our 2 part 1 mystery guest. its my turn to bring someone. who will it be? so join us as we continue chatting, complaining, commentating, and contemplating…

XOXOXo

CRUZ

ComiCentric Issue 71 : “The time I meet batman” with Rodolfo Orozco

Embarking on an exciting journey of exploration, this month unveils a captivating series of mystery guests. Every other week me for the month of august, Pete and I will bring in a mystery guest.  The voyage commences with mystery guests’ number one:

To commence our first enigmatic figure is Rodolfo Orozco, affectionately known as Rudy to those in his inner circle. Distinguished as a member of the East LA CAPE, Rudy adorns multiple hats as an accomplished athlete, a visionary architect, and an unabashed Batman enthusiast.

Rudy's roots trace back to a time when attending ComiCon was far from trendy—it was a devotion. An avid collector of comics and an enthusiast of all things nerdy, Rudy's predilections preceded the mainstream's embrace of such passions. His narrative intertwines seamlessly with that of his dear and oldest friend, Peter, as they embarked on a shared odyssey to the realm of San Deigo.

Junior high bore witness to a pivotal chapter in Rudy's story, as he and Peter united within the folds of a dedicated comic club. A nerd sanctuary in world not yet ready to accept the nerd-ally challenged. United by their enthusiasm, they embarked on pilgrimages to ComiCon, whether squished like sardines within a rented van or ensconced within the confines of a station wagon's trunk—no obstacle deterred their pursuit of comic connoisseurship.

The bond forged through countless hours of nerding out is so profound that it necessitates a bifurcated exploration, deserving of a two-part saga. As the narrative unfolds, Rudy's unique perspective and shared escapades promise to captivate audiences, shining a spotlight on a journey that precedes trends and thrives on unabashed passion.

So come back next week for part two as we continue chatting, complaining, commentating, and contemplating…

XOXOXo

CRUZ

Comicentric issue 70 El Gordo 3 : Part Deux

This week the El Gordo team emerges once more, with their creative spirits soaring higher than ever before, as they prepare to launch their second Kickstarter campaign for the highly anticipated third issue of "El Gordo: The Teenage Flying Saucer." A symphony of passion and artistry was slated to commence this week, yet the harmonious overture has been temporarily delayed by the whims of Kickstarter bureaucracy or technical difficulties.

But fear not, for the countdown to launch draws near, promising an electrifying experience for backers and fans alike. This dynamic team, comprising the ingenious minds of writers Miguel Acedo and Peter Mellini, alongside the artistic prowess of Valeria Ontiveros, vows to unveil an enchanting tapestry of storytelling.

In a splendid twist, the campaign welcomes a distinguished guest—Javeri Hernandez, the mastermind behind the illustrious Latino lead hero comic, "El Muerto." A homage cover, a bridge between creative realms, bears witness to the unity of visionaries and is sure to delight Ed Wood fans.

"Back to conquer the world," proclaims Valeria Ontiveros, the visionary artist whose brushstrokes infuse life into their celestial narrative. A saga enriched by imaginative storytelling, adorned with cliffhangers that tease the imagination, awaits eager readers. Who knows what lurks in the minds of these creators.

With aspirations soaring higher than the stratosphere, the El Gordo team yearns to replicate the triumph of yesteryears (like 11 months ago). When the first Kickstarter campaign, supported by a valiant 65 backers, breathed life into the second issue. Now, the team casts their net wider, hoping to welcome more intrepid souls aboard the El Gordo spacecraft, embarking on a cosmic journey that promises riveting escapades.

As anticipation mounts, the prospect of a new issue beckons. And as Issue 4 dances tantalizingly beyond the horizon. And in an episode of epic proportions, the team indulges in a leisurely exchange of thoughts and laughter, crafting one of their longest dialogues to date. As you savor the symphony of camaraderie and creativity, remember to savor your tomatoes, for even as you dine, a cosmic journey of imagination and companionship awaits you.

That’s why once the kick starter is up and running. Don’t hesitate to help make this another successful and less stressful campaign.

XOXOX

Cruz

ComiCentric Issue 69: heh. heh… Sixty Nine!

In the midst of a tiresome week, the anticipated order Marvel of books arrived late, throwing Nostalgic into a frenzy. Frustration mounted as shelves remained bare, and customers grew impatient. Some stated that they will return with the next sun rise. The situation was dire, prompting the staff to harken back to the traumatizing glory days of Comic Galaxy.

But the tranquility at Nostalgic was short-lived as an unexpected visitor returned: the mischievous ghost, Becky. Once a friendly presence, she had now taken on a playful, albeit vexing, demeanor. Faulty equipment, misplaced bookmarks, and a constant chorus of laughter turned the store into her personal playground.

Amidst the litigation, the lamentation of automation loomed large. Robots, once confined to science fiction, have infiltrated the workforce, threatening jobs and livelihoods. (DEYtookOURjorbs!) Some day, H.e.r.b.i.e. from the Fantastic Four cartoon will be hawking comics and suggesting the next great graphic novel to customers.

As discussions shifted, questions arose about pop culture's iconic robots. The ultimate Roboto, Helper, from "Venture Brothers," entered the fray, sparking animated conversations about venturing forth.

In a world that embraced both the extraordinary and the everyday, an enigmatic phenomenon emerged—non-human biological beings, dubbed "aliens." These entities defied conventional definitions, prompting debates on the essence of extraterrestrial existence. And they are real. Or so we are told by our government. The disclosure of documents doth deviate the world narrative but while we look at the evidence. What are we not paying attention to? Where is Art Bell when we need him?

With the story finally reaching its climax, the Secret Wars concluded. As the dust settled, the tales of Secret Wars has left us intertwined with discussions to disastrous to decipher. The more you look the bigger the holes get.

In the end before we sign off, the spotlight shifted to an epic showdown: Godzilla versus King Kong versus the Justice League. This week Supes squared off against Gzilly and we put our bets on this a titanic clash. Just as we ventured the story into the cosmic unknown, as the enigmatic Starro entered in the narrative, setting the stage for next week's discussion—Batman versus Gzilly.

And so, amidst the whirlwind of comics, robots, aliens, and epic battles, the bookstore's ordinary walls transformed into a realm of imagination and discussion. The week may have been long, but its stories and conversations were nothing short of Comicentric.

XOXOX

CRUZ