Free comic books, art and cosplay contests to be held

A Free Comic Book Day and art and cosplay contests will be held by Green Flash Comics in cooperation with the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library next Saturday, June 13.

Over a thousand comic books will be given away as Saipan celebrates Free Comic Book Day next Saturday, June 13. The event, as well as announcement of winners for the art contest and cosplay will be held at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library in the morning and will continue at the Green Flash Comics store in Garapan. (Frauleine S. Villanueva)

According to owner Glenn Keaton, the comic store received more than a thousand comic books to be given away this year.

“The wide array of comic books being published today ensures that reader of all ages—children, teens, and adults—can find something appropriate that will stir their imagination,” Keaton said.

Free Comic Book Day is celebrated in comic book shops around the world, usually on the first Saturday of May. But because of shipping delays, it will be celebrated on the second Saturday of June on Saipan.

At least two or three comic books may be given to each person.

“Last year we had about 500 people,” Keaton said.

Over 4.6 million comic books are given away by participating stores with the hope of introducing the industry and the art to as many people as possible.

Those who wish to get free comic books should drop by the public library in Susupe from 9:30am to 11:30am or the Green Flash Comics on Beach Road, Garapan from 12pm to 7pm.

“We’re going to be here in the afternoon, so if you missed it in the morning, you can come here,” Keaton said.

Art contest
Aside from the free comics, a Mariana Islands Legends art contest is also being held.

Participants may submit original artworks in whatever style they wish, provided that they contain one or more of the themes: Chief Taga, Son of Taga, and Mermaid Serena. It must be hand-drawn on a paper no larger than 8.5 by 11.5 inches.

Deadline for submission is tomorrow, June 6, and must be given in person to the Green Flash Comics store. Entries will be posted online for community voting and winners will be announced on June 13.

“The last day of submission is Saturday, 7pm. When we close, it’s got to be in here, that’s the deadline,” Keaton reminded the public, adding that participants waited until the last minute last year to submit.

Cosplay
A cosplay contest will also be held next week at the public library. Last year, around 15 persons participated in the event.

“This year, some have been waiting so I think we’ll have more. We did it last year so we’re doing it again this year,” Keaton said.

There will be a division for kids, teens, and adults. Initial prizes to be given away are gift certificates from National Office Supply and bags of special comic books. Tan Holdings will also be sponsoring some of the prizes as well.