Censorship of Comics Bibliography Comics and Cartoons before the Batman Articles: Books: Broun & Leech. Anthony Comstock: Roundsman of the Lord. DeGrazia, Edward. Girls Lean Back Everywhere: The Law of Obscenity and the Assault on Genius. Hess, Stephen, and Northrop, Sandy. Drawn & Quartered: the History of American Political Cartoons, Elliott & Clark Publishing, Montgomery, Alabama, 1996. Legal Publications: Committee on Public Information Bulletin for Cartoonists, circa 1918. Laws: Post Office Act, ch. 89, section 16, 13 Stat. 504, 507 (1865). Criminalized sending "obscenity" through the mail. An Act for the Suppression of Trade in, and Circulation of, Obscene Literature and Articles of Immoral Use, ch. 258, 17 Stat. 598-99 (1873). Named Anthony Comstock a "special agent" of the Post Office with the power to monitor the mail for obscenity. 1917 Espionage Act Cases: Masses Publishing Co. v. Patten, 244 Fed. 535 (S.D.N.Y.1917). 1930's Articles: Books: Legal Publications: Laws: Cases: Philips v. Commissioner, 283 U.S. 589 (1931). 1940's Articles: Association of Comics Magazine Publishers Comics Code (1948) Hoult. "Comic Books and Juvenile Delinquency," 33 Social. Soc. Res. 279 (1949). National Cartoonists Society Comics Code (1946). Thrasher. "The Comics and Delinquency: Cause or Scapegoat?" 23 J. Educ. Sociology 196 (1949). Wertham, Frederick. "The Psychopathology of Comic Books--A Symposium," 2 American Journal of Psychopatholgy 472 (1948). Wertham, Frederick. "The Comics--Very Funny," from Saturday Review of Literature, May 29, 1948, p. 6. Wertham, Frederick. "What Your Children Think of You," from This Week, Oct. 9, 1948, p. 4. Wertham, Frderick. "What Are Comic Books?" from National Parent Teacher Magazine, Mar. 1949, p. 16. Books: Legman, G. Love & Death: A Study in Censorship, Breaking Point, New York, 1949. Evaluates comics censored by local sex and violence laws. Legal Publications: Laws: City of Quincy (MA) Rev. Ordinances c. 64 (1949). Los Angeles County Ordinance No. 5201 (1948). Cases: People v. Dickey No. CR A 2528, Cal. Super. Ct., App. Dep't, Dec 27, 1949. Winters v. New York 333 U.S. 507 (1948) 1950's Articles: "Obscene and Other Questionable Comics Are Targets for a series of Albany Bills" in The New York Times, p. 2, 21. 2/18/1953. "Are Comics Horrible?" in Newsweek, p. 60. 5/3/1954. Crime/Horror Comics: Gives an overview of the Senate hearings held to determine whether comics are harmful to minors. Overviews the history of comics; the testimony of William M. Gaines, a publisher of horror comics; and the testimony of Dr. Fredric Wertham, a New York City psychiatrist adamantly opposed to comics. "Horror Comics" in Time, p. 78. 5/3/1954. Crime/Horror Comics: Overviews the testimony heard by the three-man Senate Subcommittee on Juvenile Delinquency. Gibbs, Wolcott. "Keep Those Paws to Yourself, Space Rat!" in The New Yorker, 5/8/1954. Crime/Horror Comics: A detailed breakdown and review of Dr. Werthams book, Seduction of the Innocent, and it's implications on comics. "Horror on the Newsstands" in Time, p.77. 9/27/1954. Crime/Horror Comics: a wake of self-censorship and local anti-comics laws are spawned by the Senate hearings on comics. "Horror' Books Banned," in The New York Times, pp. 5, 20. 9/23/1954. "Obscene and Other Questionable Comics Are Targets for a series of Albany Bills" in The New York Times, p. 2, 21. 2/18/1953. "Horror' Books Banned," in The New York Times, pp. 5, 20. 9/23/1954. American Library Association. "American Book Publishers Council Conference on the Freedom to Read," April 23, 1953. Comics Code Authority Comics Code (1955). Crist. "Horror in the Nursery," from Collier's, March 27, 1948, p. 22. Frank. "Comics, Radio, Movies--and Children." Public Affairs Comm., Pamphlet No. 148 (1949). McNickle. "Policing the Comics," I Editorial Research Reports 223 (1952). Southtown (Ill.) Economist, July 18, 1954, p. 1 "The Shocking Story of CRIME AGAINST YOUTH." This kicked off a state-wide campaign against comics. Further articles were in the August 1, August 4, August 11, August 18, August 22, and July 28, 1954, editions, all on the front page. Wertham, Frederick. "What Parents Don't Know," from Ladies' Home Journal, Nov. 1953, p. 50. Wertham, Frederick. "Blueprints to Delinquency," from Reder's Digest, May 1954, p. 24. Wertham, Frederick. "It's Still Murder," from Saturday Review of Literature, April 9, 1955, p. 11. Books: Wagner, Geoffrey. Parade of Pleasure, Library Publishers, 8 West 40th Street, New York, 1955. Wertham, Frederick. Seduction of the Innocent, (1954). Legal Publications: "Battling Crime Comics to Protect Youth," 19 Federal Probation 26 (September, 1955). "Censorship of Obscene Literature By Informal Governmental Action," 22 University of Chicago Law Review 216, (1954). "The Citizen's Committee and Comic-Book Control: A Study of Extragovernmental Restraint," Law and Contemporary Problems, Volume 20, 1955. "Comic Books and Juvenile Delinquency, Interim Report," 84th Cong., 1st Session 33 (1955). "Comic Book Regulation," Legislative Problems No. 2 University of California, p. 7 (1955). "Crime Comics and the Constitution," 7 Stan. L. Rev 237, (1955). "Crime Comic Books: Goverment Control and Their Impact On Juvenile Conduct," 7 Mercer Law Review, 331 (1956). "Delinquency, Comic Books and the Law," 18 Ohio State Law Journal 513 (1957). "Hearings Before the Select Committee of the House of Representatives on Current Pornographic Materials." 82d Congress, 2d Session 76 (1952). "Hearings Before the Subcommittee to Investigate Juvenile Delinquency of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary," 83d Congress, 2d Session 91 (1954). 5 Juvenile Court Judges Journal 4 (1954) "The Law of Obscenity," 38 Minnesota Law Review 295, (1954). New York 1952 Legal Document No. 64 "Report of the New York State Joint Legislative Committee to Study the Prohibition of Comics." New York Legislative Document No. 15 (1951). New York Legislative Document No. 37 (1954). New York State Legislative Annual, 1952 (p. 419). New York State Legislative Annual, 1955 (pp 25-35). "Obscenity in the Courts," 20 Law and Contemporary Problems 596 (1955). "Regulation of Comic Books," 68 Harvard Law Review 489 (1955). "A Seal of Approval for Comic Books," 19 Federal Probation 19 (June, 1955). Laws: Connecticutt General Statutes, Section 3293d (1955 Supp). Georgia Code Ann. Sections 26--63A (1953). Maryland Crime Comic Books Act, Md. Ann. Code art. 27 section 420-425, as amended 1959, ch. 197, 1959 Md. Laws 253. Massachusetts Ann. Laws c. 272 Sections 28--30 (Supp. 1953). National Institue of Municipal Law Officers, NIMLO Model Ordinance Service, Rhyne, ed., Washington, D.C. (1954), for model comic statute. NY Law of April 29, 1955, Ch. 836, @ 541 (1955). New York Penal Code Section 1141 (2) (1941). Oklahoma city Ordinance No. 7371 (1954). Ohio Revised Code, Section 2903.10. Washington Comic Code: Act of Mar. 18, 1955, ch. 282, 1955 Washinton Acts 1231. Cases: Adams v. Hinckle, 51 Wash. 2d 763; 322 P.2d 844 (1958). J. Katzev et al., Appellants, v. County of Los Angeles et al., Respondents, 52 Cal. 2d 360; 341 P.2d 310 (1959). Roth v. United States, 354 U.S. 476, 77 S.Ct. 1304, 1 L.Ed.2d 1498 (1957). Kingsley Books v. Brown, 354 U.S. 436 (1957). 1960's Articles: Books: Legal Publications: Laws: Cases: The People of California v. Thomas S. Tierney et al, 253 Cal. App. 2d 1 (1967). Police Commissioner of Baltimore City et al. v. Siegel Enterprises, Inc., Etc, 223 Md. 110; 162 A.2d 727 (1960). People v. Bookcase, Inc. 14 NY 2d 409, 201 N.E. 2d 14 (1964). Wisconsin v. Voshart, 39 Wis. 2d 419; 159 N.W.2d 1 (1968). 1970's Articles: Books: Siden, H. Sadomasochism in Comics: A history of sex and violence in comic books. San Diego: Greenleaf Classics, 1972. Gilmore, D. H. Sex in Comics: A History of Eight Pagers. 4 vol. San Diego: Greenleaf Classics, 1971. Legal Publications: Laws: Cases: Feldschneider v. Georgia 127 Ga. App. 745; 195 S.E.2d 184 (1972). People of the State of New York v. Charles Kirkpatrick and Peter Dargis, 32 N.Y.2d 17; 295 N.E.2d (1973). "Zap #4." Sol Gordon, Director, Family Planning and Population Information Center v. Frank Walkley, as Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, 34 N.Y. 2d 927; 316 N.E. 2d 870 (1974). Walt Disney Productions v. The Air Pirates, 581 F.2d 751 (1978). 1980's Articles: Sanglacomo, Michael. "Obscenity Case Involves Comic Books" in Post-Tribune, pp. A1, A3. Gary, Indiana, 1/21/1987. Friendly Frank case: Details of the police raid on the comic store, arrest of Michael Correa, store manager, and his legal defense plans. Interview with Frank Mangiaracina, store owner. Holecek, Andrea. "Judge Hears Testimony on Obscenity Charges" in The Times, p. A2. Indiana, 10/20/1987. Friendly Frank case: Trial of Michael Correa for obscenity. Interviews with police officer Van Gorp (Prosecution), and Catherine Yronwode president of Eclipse Comics (Defense). Sangiacomo, Michael. "Evidence is Heard in case of Clerk Accused of Selling Pornographic Comic Books" in Post-Tribune, pp. B1-B2. Gary, Indiana, 10/20/1987. Friendly Frank case: Trial of Michael Correa for obscenity. Major points of the prosecution and defense. Testimony of Assistant State's Attorney James Knibb and Catherine Yronwode. Britt, Phillip. "Comics Store Operator Arrested" in Hammond Times, p. A16. New Chicago, Indiana, 12/12/1987. Friendly Frank case: Arrest and trial of Michael Correa. Details of the evidence being presented. Sanglacomo, Michael. "Man Guilty of Obscenity Count" in Post-Tribune, pp. B1-B2. Gary, Indiana, 1/14/1988. Friendly Frank case: Michael Correa sentenced to a year under court supervision and fined $750. Top comics artists put together a portfolio to help fight the legal battle. "Comic Book Seller Convicted of Obscenity" in Chicago Sun-Times, Metro Digest. Chicago, 1/14/1988. Friendly Frank case: Quick summary of the trial of Michael Correa from arrest to conviction. Thompson, Maggie. "Friendly Frank's is Found Guilty" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #742, pp. 1, 3. Iola, Wisconsin, 2/5/1988. Friendly Frank case: Michael Correa gives his two week notice. Frank Mangiaracina plans to appeal. Kitchen Sink produces an art portfolio to raise funds for legal fees. Interviews with Dennis Kitchen of Kitchen Sink, publisher of "Omaha the Cat Dancer", and Frank Mangiaracina, store owner. Reid, Calvin. "Comics Producers Fight Obscenity Ruling Against Illinois Bookstore" in Publishers Weekly, p. 12. 4/1/1988. Friendly Frank case: The basis of the appeal. How comics are perceived. Interviews with Burton Joseph, defendants attorney, and Frank Miller, comic artist and writer. Thompson, Maggie. " Friendly Frank's' Conviction Overruled" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #838, pp. 1, 20, 26, 28. Iola, Wisconsin, 12/8/1989. Friendly Frank case: Circuit court decision overturned. Text of the appellate court decision, including the case background. "Comic Book Legal Defense Fund Names a Board of Directors" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #839, pp. 1, 3. Iola , Wisconsin, 12/15/1989. CBLDF: Wide support to defend Michael Correa in the Friendly Frank's case leads to the formation of a more permanent organization. Interview with Dennis Kitchen. "Illinois Comics Obscenity Ruling Is Reversed" in Publishers Weekly, p. 16. 12/22/1989. Friendly Frank case: Quick summary of the Appellate Court decision to overturn. Sanglacomo, Michael. "Obscenity Case Involves Comic Books" in Post-Tribune, pp. A1, A3. Gary, Indiana, 1/21/1987. Friendly Frank case: Details of the police raid on the comic store, arrest of Michael Correa, store manager, and his legal defense plans. Interview with Frank Mangiaracina, store owner. Holecek, Andrea. "Judge Hears Testimony on Obscenity Charges" in The Times, p. A2. Indiana, 10/20/1987. Friendly Frank case: Trial of Michael Correa for obscenity. Interviews with police officer Van Gorp (Prosecution), and Catherine Yronwode president of Eclipse Comics (Defense). Sangiacomo, Michael. "Evidence is Heard in case of Clerk Accused of Selling Pornographic Comic Books" in Post-Tribune, pp. B1-B2. Gary, Indiana, 10/20/1987. Friendly Frank case: Trial of Michael Correa for obscenity. Major points of the prosecution and defense. Testimony of Assistant State's Attorney James Knibb and Catherine Yronwode. Britt, Phillip. "Comics Store Operator Arrested" in Hammond Times, p. A16. New Chicago, Indiana, 12/12/1987. Friendly Frank case: Arrest and trial of Michael Correa. Details of the evidence being presented. Sanglacomo, Michael. "Man Guilty of Obscenity Count" in Post-Tribune, pp. B1-B2. Gary, Indiana, 1/14/1988. Friendly Frank case: Michael Correa sentenced to a year under court supervision and fined $750. Top comics artists put together a portfolio to help fight the legal battle. Thompson, Maggie. "Friendly Frank's: One Month Later" in Comics Buyer's Guide, pp. 20, 22. Iola, Wisconsin, 3/4/1988. Friendly Frank case: Transcripts from the trial. Basis of the appeal. The Illinois obscenity law. The affect on other comic distributors. Interviews with Burton Joseph of the Chicago law firm of Barsy, Joseph, and Lichtenstein and Gary Colabuono, the owner of Moondog's Inc. Reid, Calvin. "Comics Producers Fight Obscenity Ruling Against Illinois Bookstore" in Publishers Weekly, p. 12. 4/1/1988. Friendly Frank case: The basis of the appeal. How comics are perceived. Interviews with Burton Joseph, defendants attorney, and Frank Miller, comic artist and writer. Queenan, Joe. "Drawing on the Dark Side," in The New York Times Magazine, p. 33. 4/30/1989. Thompson, Maggie. " Friendly Frank's' Conviction Overruled" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #838, pp. 1, 20, 26, 28. Iola, Wisconsin, 12/8/1989. Friendly Frank case: Circuit court decision overturned. Text of the appellate court decision, including the case background. "Comic Book Legal Defense Fund Names a Board of Directors" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #839, pp. 1, 3. Iola , Wisconsin, 12/15/1989. CBLDF: Wide support to defend Michael Correa in the Friendly Frank's case leads to the formation of a more permanent organization. Interview with Dennis Kitchen. "Illinois Comics Obscenity Ruling Is Reversed" in Publishers Weekly, p. 16. 12/22/1989. Friendly Frank case: Quick summary of the Appellate Court decision to overturn. Books: Legal Publications: "The Control of Media-Related Imitative Violence," 38 Federal Communications Law Journal (1987). "Restricting Adult Access to Material Obscene as to Juveniles," 58 Mich. L. Rev. 1681 (1987). Laws: Cases: People of the State of Illinois v. Micheal Correa, 191 Ill. App. 3d 823; 548 N.E.2d 351 (1989). "Friendly Frank." 1990's Articles: "Playboy's History of the Sexual Revolution," Playboy, February, 1998. Evaluates Wertham from a 90's perspective. A., Joyce. " Out in West Field" in Westfield Newsletter, p. 3. January 1990. Friendly Frank case: Summary of the appellate decision with case background and editorial reactions L., C. "Friendly Frank's Ruling Over" / "Kitchen Names Directors For Legal Defense Fund" in Comics F/X, #13, p. 1. January 1990. Friendly Frank case (CBLDF): Appellate Court decision summary, directors chosen for CBLDF. "Comics Store Manager Freed, Arrest Erased" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #886, pp. 1, 3. Iola, Wisconsin, 11/9/1990. Xeno's , Jacksonville: Windsor Parker pleaded "No Contest" to obscenity charges from his arrest in July and all charges were dropped. The CBLDF paid $1500 for his defense. Costa, Bruce G. "Guest Editorial" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #886, p. 4. Iola, Wisconsin, 11/9/1990. Censorship: Editorial on the case of Charles Freeman, arrested for selling "As nasty as They Wanna Be" album by 2Live Crew, and the impossible task for a retailer to be aware of the complete content of every comic sold. H., M.C. "Adult Comics Seized in Florida" in The Comics Journal, #139, pp. 9, 10. December 1990. Gainesville; Xeno's: Two Comic shops in northern Florida have obscenity charges brought against them using the same Florida obscenity code used to prosecute 2 Live Crew. Details the actions of both stores, the books that the charges are based on and defense plans. Haefer, Todd. "Police Raid Comics Store, Books Confiscated" in Sunday Northwestern, pp. A1-A2. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, 3/10/1991. Oshkosh, WI: A police raid is spawned by an issue of "Hard Boiled" sold to a sixteen year old boy. Four crates of comics were seized by police. Charges were not yet issued against the store. Interview with Maggie Thompson of Comic Buyer's Guide. Haeffer, Todd. "The Comic Controversy, Store's Bust No Surprise to Industry" in The Oshkosh Northwestern, pp. A1-A2. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, 3/17/1991. Oshkosh, WI: Details of the police raid on The Collectors exchange as well as critiques of Hard Boiled the comic that spawned the raid. Several industry leaders speak on comics "growing up". Haeffer, Todd. "Comic Books Have Always Found Controversy" in The Oshkosh Northwestern, p. A2. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, 3/17/1991. CBLDF: A brief history of controversy in comics from 1936, up to the "Hard Boiled" incident in Oshkosh. Haeffer, Todd. "The Comic Controversy, Author Aware Work Disturbs" in The Oshkosh Northwestern, p. A1-A2. Oshkosh Wisconsin, 3/17/1991. Oshkosh, WI: Hard Boiled author Frank Miller's take on his work Hard Boiled, and other projects he is a part of. Taylor, Kate. "Comic Cops Cause Concern Because of Sweeping Seizures" in The Globe & Mail, The Arts. Toronto, 3/21/1991. Foreign - Planet Earth Comic Shop, Dragon Lady Comic Shop: Police raids on the close knit Toronto comic community end in obscenity charges against two stores. Members of both are going to court. Many feel police overstepped their bounds. Interviews with store owners. Cooly, Glenn. "Comic Stores Hit With Obscenity Charges" in Now Magazine, p.19. Toronto, 3/21/1991. Foreign - Planet Earth Comic Shop, Dragon Lady Comic Shop: Summaries of the police raids against the two comic stores and critiques of some of the comics seized. Interview with Mark Pijanka, manager of Dragon Lady Associated Press and Northwestern staff. "Store Owner Acquitted in Comic Case" in The Oshkosh Northwestern, p. A1. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, 4/4/1991. Gainesville, Fla.; Oshkosh WI: A bookstore owner is acquitted, with aid from the CBLDF. The case is similar to the "Hard Boiled" case in Oshkosh Wisconsin and may be considered as a precedent against filing charges against The Collectors Exchange. Thompson, Maggie., Thompson, Don. "Editorial" in The Comics Buyer's Guide, Iola, Wisconsin, 4/5/1991. Oshkosh: Short editorial on the "Hard Boiled" case in Oshkosh, questions equal protection under the law. H., M.C. "Florida Retailer is Acquitted" in The Comics Journal, #142, pp. 10, 11. June 1991. Oshkosh; Gainesville: Bill Hatfield of Gainesville Fla. has been acquitted of two counts of selling material harmful to minors. Overview of the case from beginning to end. Gives an overview of the case against Richard Manser in Oshkosh WI. including the raid, the trial, and Hardboiled the book that spawned the raid. Moreland, Jo. "Comic Books Seized in Raid" in The Daily Californian, vol. 100, #145, pp. A1, A2. 6/20/1992. El Cajon: Details a raid on Amazing Comix in El Cajon including the details of the investigation and the opinions of both sides of the case. P., V. "Comics Store Manager Arrested in Florida" in The Comics Journal, # 151, pp. 9, 10. July 1992. Sarasota Fla.: Details the history of a particularly troubling case in Sarasota Fla. where Timothy Parks seems to have been blatantly persecuted by the law and the surrounding community. P., V. "Police crack Down on California Comics Stores" in The Comics Journal, #151, pp. 10, 11. July 1992. El Cajon; Chino Hills: Overviews the raids and material seized from two California comic shops. "California Retailer Fights for His First Amendment Rights" in Diamond Dateline, vol. 4, #10, pp. 1, 2. 11/19/1992. El Cajon: City Comics in Chino Hills has been the victim of an ongoing campaign to close the store. The CBLDF is paying for their defense now that formal charges have been filed related to a police sting organized four months ago. Flagg, Michael. "Wrong kind of Funny Business?" in The Los Angeles Times, pp. E1 E13. Los Angeles, 1991. Censorship: Onetime comic retailer John Fulce, now a born-again Christian, fights to "clean up" the comic industry. Katz, Leanne. "How Censorship Efforts by the Religious Right Disrupt Education" in The New York Times, New York, 12/11/1992. Censorship: Editorial by Leanne Katz executive director of the National Coalition Against Censorship. Hultkrans, Andrew. "Declare the Pennies on Your Eyes" in Mondo 2000, #10, p.105.1993. California Board of Equalization: Paul Mavrides fights the California State Tax Board to legally recognize comic books as literature and rescind the sales tax applied to them. Cunningham, Scott. "Boiled Diana" in Gauntlet, vol. II, pp. 147-149. 1993. Mike Diana: Runs through Mike Diana's history, a break down of his artistic style, and his prosecution. It also includes a general look at the state of free speech in America. All in a highly editorial style. Griffin, Laura. "Magazine Boils Down to Smut" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1B. 4/19/1993. Mike Diana: Excellent article, Gives a break down of the material in Boiled Angel, and the early stages of the case as well as statements from Mike Diana and prosecuting attorney Stuart Baggish Griffin, Laura. "Artist Pleads Not Guilty to Obscenity Charge" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3B. 4/20/1993. Mike Diana: Mike Diana pleads not guilty, anti-Diana grandmothers protest in front of the court house, statements from both sides. The sentence being sought by the prosecution includes jail time. Griffin, Laura. "Testing the Boundaries of Free Speech" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1A. 5/19/1993. Mike Diana: Support is drummed up for Mike Diana, the CBLDF is paying for his case, many people are supporting him on principle regardless of content. The article takes an in-depth look at the zine culture, includes an overview of Diana's past, and statements from the prosecution. Strausbaugh, John. "Making Book" in New York Press, vol. 8, #7, 7/7/1993. Mike Diana: Excellent article written in editorial style critiques various works by Diana, includes an overview of his past, interviews both Mike Diana and Luke Lerot, Diana's CBLDF retained attorney. Captures the scene at the hearing, and summarizes other CBLDF case work. Shepherd, Chuck. "Fallen Angel" in Creative Loafing, vol. 6, # 24, pp. 3-7. 9/16/1993. Mike Diana: In depth article, Prosecutor Stuart Baggish is set to turn Mike Diana into a warning for other artists, looks at The Miller v. California obscenity precedent and the "community standards" of Pinellas county. A brief history of Mike Diana and a brief history of the CBLDF. Pittman, Craig. "They Test Obscenity's Limits and Find Love Along the Way" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3B. 11/17/1993. Mike Diana: Short article, Mike Diana is gaining emotional support from Suzy Smith who was suspended from her cable access show for displaying "obscene" material. Judge Walter Fullerton ruled that Diana's case will be tried in Pinellas County. Pittman, Craig. "Comic Book Artist Wins One in Court" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3B. 12/2/1993. Mike Diana: Circuit Judge Fred Bryson overruled the earlier decision by Judge Fullerton. Because Diana sent his comic through the mail, and only a federal court can decide what is illegal to send through the mail, Pinellas county may not be able to try Diana locally. Stuart Baggish disagrees with the decision. Pittman, Craig. "Obscenity Case May be Heard in County Court" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3B. 12/14/1993. Mike Diana: Judge Fred Bryson reversed his earlier ruling which clears the way for Mike Diana's trial in Pinellas county. Pittman, Craig. "It's Ugly But is it Art?" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1B. 3/23/1994. Mike Diana: It starts with an anecdote about Mike Diana's childhood, the courts are discussing the artistic value of Boiled Angel. Pittman, Craig. "Comic Book Lacks Merit as Art, Experts Testify" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3B. 3/24/1994. Mike Diana: A pair of Eckerd college professors appearing for the prosecution have testified that Boiled Angel has no literary or artistic merit because it lacks a life affirming quality, includes statements from the professors. Pittman, Craig. "Comic Book Called 'Warped and Profane'" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3B. 3/25/1994. Mike Diana: Further statements from expert witnesses, statements from the defense's expert witnesses, slight delve into zine culture Yelverton, William. "Jury Rules 'Boiled Angel' Obscene Material" in Tampa Tribune, p. 1, 3. 3/26/1994. Mike Diana: The Pinellas county jury deemed Boiled Angel obscene, Diana is to be held in a county jail without bail until he is sentenced, statements from Mike Diana's fiancee and Stuart Baggish, prosecuting attorney. Pittman, Craig. "Comic Book Ruled Obscene" in St. Petersburg Times, pp. 1B, 6B. 3/26/1994. Mike Diana: Mike Diana is convicted of obscenity, gives a detailed picture of the trial with statements from both sides. Moncada, Carlos. "Largo Artist Gets Probation" in Tampa Tribune, p. 1, 3. 3/29/1994. Mike Diana: Mike Diana is sentenced to three years probation, a three thousand dollar fine, his home is subject to unannounced searches to determine if he has been creating more obscene material, he must undergo a psychiatric evaluation, avoid contact with minors, perform eight hours of community service a week, and take a college-level course in journalistic ethics. "'Boiled Angel' Case is Troubling" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 14A. 3/29/1994. Mike Diana: an Editorial decrying the procedures used and the outcome of the Mike Diana trial. Marbin, Carol. "'Boiled Angel' Cartoonist Sentenced" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1B, 5B. 3/19/1994. Mike Diana: Neither side is happy with Mike Diana's sentence. The prosecution would have been satisfied with nothing less than jail time, while the defense is unable to accept the severe breech of the first amendment. Troxler, Howard. "A Threat to One Right is a Threat to All Rights" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1B. 3/30/1994. Mike Diana: An editorial/article, Giving the government the power to ban books is too much power, he also interviews Stuart Baggish on First Amendment issues. "Comic Ruled Obscene; Artist to Study Ethics" in Charleston Daily Mail, p. 3A. 3/30/1994. Mike Diana: quick summary of the sentence with a few statements from the prosecution. Siano, Brian. "Tales From the Crypt," in The Humanist p. 40. March/April 1994. Kanfer, Stefan. "Pow, Zap, Porn," in Self Magazine p. 162. April 1994. Lidwell, Jan. "Reality is Foolish Enough" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 5. 4/2/1994. Mike Diana: There are some really stupid things done in government, The Mike Diana case is mentioned alongside many other ridiculous cases. Melone, Mary Jo. "Maybe Our Priorities are Obscene" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1B. 4/3/1994. Mike Diana: An Editorial that attacks Pinellas County for its actions in the Mike Diana trial. Goshier, Elijah. "It's Time to Serve Up Reality With Breakfast" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1. 4/4/1994. Mike Diana: An editorial that supports Diana's work as reflecting reality, something few other media will attempt to do. Reid, Calvin. "Comic Book Ruled Obscene in Florida" in Publishers Weekly, pp. 10-11. 4/4/1994. Mike Diana: recaps the trial and unusual sentence of Mike Diana for obscenity. Pittman, Craig. "Obscenity Conviction has Cartoon Creators Frowning" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 6B. 4/5/1994. Mike Diana: Cartoonists and publishers from across the industry speak out in opposition to Mike Diana's conviction. Shepherd, Chuck. "Foiled Angel" in Creative Loafing, vol. 7, # 1, 4/7/1994. Mike Diana: An excellent article that gives a very thorough breakdown of each part of the trial, from jury selection, to sentencing, to possible legal precedent. It's presented in favor of Diana. Clark, David Aaron. "Sex Scene: falling angel" in Screw, p. 10. 4/10/1994. Mike Diana: A good article. It looks at each portion of Mike Diana's conviction in a separate paragraph. Noble, Anne R. "A Letter From Florida" in Media & the Law, vol. 2, # 8, pp. 1, 6. 4/15/1994. Mike Diana: A look at the Mike Diana case as well as many other questionable cases in Florida "the Constitution... as little more than a suggestion" R., E. "Michael Diana Convicted" in The Comics Journal, # 168, pp. 15-21. May 1994. Mike Diana: A thorough breakdown of the testimony and witnesses in the Mike Diana trial. On a side note Timothy Parks of Sarasota is still in prison, convicted of displaying Adult material. "CBLDF Member Under Fire" in The Comics Journal, # 168, pp. 15, 16. May 1994. CBLDF: Mitch Berger, board member and second vice president of the CBLDF has been accused of negligence. Allison, Stephanie Jo. "Beware Controversial Writers: Big Brother is Reading" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 2. 5/11/1994. Mike Diana: A student from Eckerd College, the Christian college that supplied the prosecution with expert art witnesses, Has written a guest editorial in protest of Mike Diana's conviction. Kuper, Peter. "It's Obscene" in The Village Voice, vol. 39, # 21, p. 37. 5/24/1994. Mike Diana: Full page cartoon gives an overview history of the Mike Diana case, from his arrest for obscenity, to his extreme and unusual punishment which includes his being forbidden to create work for himself, in his own home. "Cartoonist Charged With Passing Counterfeit Money" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3B. 5/27/1994. Mike Diana: A summary, Mike Diana violated his probation by passing a counterfeit bill in Hooters Orlando. Diana's attorney has asked to have his sentence stayed until after the appeal. Pittman, Craig. "Voicing an Objection" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1. 5/30/1994. Mike Diana: Peter Kuper, expert witness for the defense, has drawn a full page comic titled "It's Obscene" satirizing the Mike Diana trial. Kuper, Peter. "A Cold Eye" in Print, pp. 110, 111. May/June 1994. Mike Diana: Peter Kuper was one of the expert witnesses in Mike Diana's defense. He tells the story of the trial from his perspective. "Anthology Book to Benefit Cartoonist Forbidden to Draw" in Michael Hunt Publications, June 1994. Mike Diana: A call to arms by Mike Diana's publisher Michael Hunt, asking for artistic contributions to benefit Mike Diana. Rosenberger, Jack. "Fanzine Cartoonist Forbidden to Draw" in Art In America, p. 31. June 1994. Mike Diana: Details of Mike Diana's trial, conviction, and punishment for obscenity. Goldscheider, Eric. "Adult Comics: Art or Obscenity?" in Union-News, pp. B7, B12. 7/6/1995. Mike Diana (CBLDF): Takes a look at the Mike Diana trial as well as the work history and organization of the CBLDF. Hermes, Will. "Tales From the Courts" in City Pages, pp. 17, 23. 7/27/1994. CBLDF: A short but compelling article that looks at the large number of comic book censorship cases present at the time, it also looks at the CBLDF, comics as a medium, and the atmosphere that is producing these cases "Burton Joseph" in Diamond Dialogue, pp. 21, 76, 78. August 1994. Censorship: An interview with CBLDF legal council Burton Joseph on censorship and obscenity. Shepherd, Chuck. "Loony Toons" in The Playboy Forum, August 1994. Mike Diana: Excellent article, it gives a good critique of the key players and events in the trial. Lovece, Frank. "Sealed For Your Protection," in Entertainment Weekly, p. 69. 8/22/1994. "Mike Diana is Free to Draw Again - For Now" in Comics Buyer's Guide, # 1084, p. 28. 8/26/1994. Mike Diana: The CBLDF paid a $3,000 appeal bond to stay the conditions of Mike Diana's conviction. Rat, Art. "That's Not Funny!" in Art Alternatives, #6, p. 14. August 1994. CBLDF: A good summary of CBLDF case work in 1993/1994. Sodaro, Robert J. "Legally Yours" in Entertainment Retailing, #13, pp. 46-48. August 1994. CBLDF: Excellent article that describes the CBLDF; it's birth, what it is, and what it does. Gillespie, Nick. "Comic Injustice" in Reason, p. 16. August/September 1994. Mike Diana: A quick summary of the trial, it suggests that the trial would not have occurred in a more urban area, but this small town success may encourage prosecutors from larger towns to attempt to prosecute similar cases. Magcosta, Stephan. "Drawing on the Wrong Side of the Law" in The Stranger, vol. 3, #52, pp. 25-26. 9/20/1994. Mike Diana: A very complete editorial style article covering the Mike Diana Case, and a short look at the possible ramifications of the case on other areas of the art community. Magcosta, Stephan. "Drawing on the Wrong Side of the Law, Part Two" in The Stranger, vol. 4, #1, 9/27/1994. CBLDF (Mike Diana): Details on the Mike Diana trial and an overview of comic book obscenity cases and censorship over the past fifty years. R. E. "Texas Retailer is Latest Victim of Obscenity Bust" in The Comics Journal, #172, November 1994. Hero's Comics, Fort Worth (CBLDF): Ron Killingsworth, owner of Hero's Comics is charged with obscenity, The CBLDF has taken up his defense, but is running low on funds. Interview with DeAnne DeWitt , CHAOS publisher, and Malcom Dade, attorney for the defense. Henry, Sean. "Comic Threat" in Mother Jones, vol. 19, # 6, p. 67. November 1994. Mike Diana: Describes the case in detail and shows why it such a grievous violation of the first amendment. Pittman, Craig. "Videos by Convicted Cartoonist for Sale" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1B. 11/17/1994. Mike Diana: Videos made by Diana, and for sale on the Internet, may be in violation of his probation Baker, John. "Police Cite Comic Book Store Owner" in The Foothill Leader, pp. A3, A14. 11/23/1994. Shooting Star Comics, Glendale: Sam Silbert has been cited for not keeping sexually explicit material away from minors, even though all adult books were wrapped in plastic kept in a separate part of the store and affixed with "adults only" stickers. Reynolds, Eric. "The Michael Diana Interview" in The Comics Journal, pp. 17-25. December 1994. Mike Diana: Mike Diana talks about the trial, spending three days in jail, and all the violations of his probation, The Florida courts just don't want to leave him alone. Chun, Alex. "Letter of he law not to Mavrides' Advantage" in The Comics Journal, # 173, pp. 26-28. December 1994. California Board of Equalization: Three years ago Paul Mavrides started his fight with the State of California to recognize comics as an authors manuscript, not commercial art, in order to eliminate a sales tax. This is an excellent article that describes the tax law and legal precedents involved. "California Retailer Charged" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1098, p.6. 12/2/1994. Shooting Star Comics, Glendale: Sam Silbert store owner was charged with "display of indecent material". The CBLDF and the ACLU were contacted for assistance. The CBLDF will provide legal funds. Roche, Tim. "Comics Deemed Obscene Could Help Pay Artist's Legal Fees" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 2B. 12/22/1994. Mike Diana: With the aid of Michael Hunt Publications, Diana has been able to sell almost three thousand copies of the two issues of Boiled Angel deemed obscene at $6.66 a pop. All the proceeds will go to pay the legal fees from he trial that deemed the issues obscene in the first place. "Cartoonist Fights Loss of Sales Tax Exemption" in California Publisher, p. 4, 16. December 1994/January 1995. California Board of Equalization: Details of Paul Mavrides fight to have comic books legally recognized as literature in order to eliminate a sales tax loop hole. "Cartoon Cash Clash" in NuCity, vol. 3, # 51, Albuquerque, New Mexico. 12/28/1994-1/10/1995. California Board of Equalization: The CBLDF and Cartoonist's from across the state and country are rallying to aid Paul Mavrides fight The Board of Equalization to recognize cartoonists as authors. Frauenfelder, Mark. "A Day Without Boiled Angel is Like a Day Without Sunshine" in Wired, pp. 34-35. January 1995. Mike Diana: A summary of the case and sentence, Boiled Angel's sudden jump in popularity. Interview with Mike Diana on his sentence. Holmberg, Hartley. "Boiled Angel" in Grind, pp. 22-25. February/March 1995. Mike Diana: An in-depth interview with Mike Diana focusing on his experiences and his artwork. Holmberg, Hartley. "The Legalities of Cartooning" in Grind, pp. 23-25. February/March 1995. CBLDF (Mike Diana): Shane Bugbee, Mike Diana's publisher, attacks the CBLDF, the ACLU, and the lawyers defending Mike Diana as incompetent and accuses them of working with the state attorneys. Adair, Benjamin. "Keeping Comics Clean" in The Los Angeles, 2/9/1995. Shooting Star Comics, Glendale: A successful fund-raiser is held to fight Sam Silberts charge of display of indecent material to minors. Lowe, Johnny. "Four Color Controversy" in The Chimneyville Almanac, # 5, pp. 2-10. March 1995. Shooting Star Comics, Glendale: A n interview with Sam Silbert about his experiences and the signing fund-raiser. "Shooting Star Signing a Success" in Hero Illustrated, p. 19. March 1995. Shooting Star Comics, Glendale: A summary of the Fundraising organized to help Sam Silbert pay his legal fees. R., E. "Censorship Incidents on the Rise" in The Comics Journal, # 175, pp. 11-15. March 1995. CBLDF: Excellent article, addresses a rise in censorship with possible causes. Gives breakdowns of CBLDF case work including "California State Tax Board", "Mike Diana", "Hero's Comics, Fort Worth", "Shooting Star Comics, Glendale", "Timothy Parks, Sarasota", "Gordon Lee, Rome, GA.", and other small incidents. Interviews with Burton Joseph and Frank Miller of the CBLDF. "Two CBLDF Cases Laid to Rest" in The Comics Journal, #177, p. 32. May 1995. Hero's Comics, Fort Worth; Shooting Star Comics, Glendale: Short article, both cases were dismissed on insufficient grounds. Pittman, Craig. "They're No Angels" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1. 5/22/1995. Mike Diana: Mike Diana appeared on "Rolanda" titled " Is the man I Love a Sex Predator?" Williams- Ahmed, Mary. "Children's Comic Book Promotes Racial Hatred" in Grand Forks Herald, 6/15/1995. Spawn 30: A woman picks up an issue of Spawn 30, in which Spawn fights a faction of the Ku Klux Klan, and, without reading it, goes on a rampage buying all the issues she can get her hands on to keep it out of stores and writing angry letters. This is her editorial. Branvold, Barry. "Comic Book Critic Misses the Point" in Grand Forks Herald, 6/28/1995. Spawn 30: An editorial written in response to "children's comic book promotes racial hatred". It tries to set the record straight about Spawn and compares him to Michael Landon from "Highway to Heaven", but he makes a BIG mistake in stating that Spawn is not a black man. Graham, Boyd. "Chilled Views" in Golden Page of Comics, vol. 1, issue 13, pp. 3-5, 8. July 1995. Mike Diana: Recounts the Mike Diana Trial as well as the authors personal encounter with Mike. Robinson, Hardy. "Comic Degrades Black People" in Grand Forks Herald, July 1995. Spawn 30: An editorial, this person feels that any one who is making money with Black History is automatically degrading Blacks. LaRocque, Larry. "Comic Books Don't Foster Racist Acts" in Grand Forks Herald, July 1995. Spawn 30: An editorial, another person tries to set the record straight, and brings to light the point so blatantly left out in the "Children's Comic Book Promotes Racial Hatred" that spawn is fighting the KKK. Brue, Mike. "Cartoon Enemy" in Grand Forks Herald, p. 1A. 7/27/1995. Spawn 30: Mary Williams-Ashmed has gotten Sen. Byron Dorgan to rally behind her, and has been interviewed by TV's "A Current Affair" in hopes of censoring comics like Spawn. Butler, Jerry. "Comic Books Teaches Discrimination is Wrong" in Grand Forks Herald, 7/28/1995. Spawn 30: An editorial, Mary Williams-Ahmed has taken her comic battle to her local senator, the author writes about Dr. Wertham and past comics censorship. R., E. "Mavrides' Claim Denied - Appeal Filed" in The Comics Journal, # 178, p. 20-21. July 1995. California Board of Equalization: The California State Board of Equalization member Carl Besset passed a written denial to Paul Mavrides, which states that the decision on this issue can only be made by an assembly in court. Interview with Sanford Pressant, Mavrides' attorney. Miner, Michael. "Hot Type, A Tax on Cartoons" in Chicago Reader, section 1. 8/11/1995. California Board of Equalization: Details Paul Mavrides fight with the California State Tax Board. The accidental beginnings and predictions for it's future. Joubert, Bernard. "La Justice Americaine Condamne Un Dessinateur... A Ne Plus Dessiner!" in Bede X SM, #85, September 1995. Mike Diana: An article in French covering Mike Diana's trial and art. Owen, Penny. "Police Raid Store for Explicit Comic" in The Daily Oklahoman, p. 1, 2. 9/7/1995. Planet Comics: Reports on the raid of Planet Comics which was spawned by the comic "Verotika", supposedly if it's found to be obscene it is illegal to sell to anyone regardless of age. The police have vowed not to stop with Planet Comics. Berry, Annete. "Students: Cops Stay Out of Comic Shops" in The Oklahoma Daily, pp. 1, 2. 9/8/1995. Planet Comics: A recap of the raid and "Verotika" with statement calling for the individual to decide what they want to see rather than the government. Raphael, Jordan. "Still Hungry" in The Comics Journal, #181, pp. 7-9. October 1995. California Board of Equalization, Planet Comics: The California State Board of Equalization performed an audit on a Los Angeles based creators syndicate for the sales tax on selling comic strips and editorial cartoons. Summarizes a raid on the Planet Comics store in Oklahoma City, store owners were charged with eight counts of obscenity and could spend a combined 86 years in prison and $100,000 in fines. Stark, Jeff. "The Difference Between Comics and Literature" in San Francisco Weekly, p. 7. 10/4/1995. California Board of Equalization: Details Paul Mavrides fight with the California State Tax Board. Includes personal information on Paul. David, Peter. "But I Digress" in Comic Buyer's Guide, # 1142, pp. 84, 86. 10/6/1995. Censorship: An editorial, it addresses the question of absolute freedom of speech. Discusses Verotika, " A Taste of Cherry" and Spawn #30. "Police Raid Oklahoma City Comics Shop" in Comic Buyer's Guide, #1142, 10/6/1995. Planet Comics: Details police raids on the two stores. Both raids were spawned by Verotika #4. Godfrey, Ed. "Comic Shop Owners to Face Charges" in The Daily Oklahoman, 10/13/1995. Planet Comics: Describes the obscenity charges being brought against the two owners of Planet Comics, as well as various statements from the police and prosecution. "Comics Retailers Indicted on Obscenity and Child Porn Charges" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1147, p. 6. 11/10/1995. Planet Comics: Details of the Planet Comics indictment of Michael Kennedy and John Hunter. Andelson, Andrea. "As Comics Are Taxed Some Fail to Laugh" in The New York Times, p. D7. 11/13/1995. California Board of Equalization: The article addresses the sales tax on cartoons itself and the possible affects it may have on publishing companies. Nolan, Martin F. "Those #%&!#$%! Taxes" in The Globe, 1995. California Board of Equalization: Looks at the Sales tax from the Los Angeles creators syndicate's point of view. Details on what is and isn't taxable under the sales tax law. Ronan, John F. "BOE Blinks as Mavrides Appeal Nears" in The Comics Journal, #182, pp. 13-15. November 1995. California Board of Equalization: A new sales tax policy is proposed as Paul Mavrides oral appeal draws closer. Pressure from newspapers, public officials, and the comic industry all have aided in bringing around this course of action. Raphael, Jordan., Ronan, John F. "Planet Comics Seizes Industry Attention" in The Comics Journal, #182, pp. 7-12. November 1995. Planet Comics: Excellent article with information on the raid, the indictment, "Oklahoma's For Children and Families" the organization that claims responsibility for the raid, breakdowns of the material contained within the seized books, and those organizations who have come to the aid of the indicted store owners. Raphael, Jordan. "From the Front Lines: the Planet Comics Principals on the Record" in The Comics Journal, #182, p. 12. November 1995. Planet Comics: Various quotes from different people involved in the Planet Comics case. David, Peter. "But I Digress" in Comics Buyer's Guide, # 1147, 11/10/1995. Planet Comics: This article/editorial looks at the charges and particularly at Glen Danzig the publisher of "Verotika" who has refused to help the Planet comics Owners. The CBLDF will be paying The pairs legal fees. Enders, John. "First They Came for the (Dirty) Comic Books" in Daily Tidings, p. 4. 11/18/1995. Amazing Tales, Ashland: An editorial, shouldn't the government being doing better things with tax money than setting up stings on comic shops? Luciano, Elizabeth. "Nothing Funny About This Defense Fund" in The Boston Globe, p. 77. 11/26/1995. CBLDF: A brief look at the Planet Comics case, the CBLDF, and the comic market. "Election Year Bust in Oklahoma City" in Industry News, pp. 5, 6. December 1995. Planet Comics: Looks at the possible political motivation behind the Planet Comics Case, as well as some other recent comic censorship cases. Included is the official response of Fantagraphics Books to the Child Pornography charge of "Devil's Angel". Dean, Michael. "The State of Oklahoma vs. Planet Comics" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1151, p. 30. 12/8/1995. Planet Comics: Details of the raid, interviews with publishers from Verotik offering aid. Miller, Frank. "Reasons to be Cheerful" in Fan, pp. 350-352. January 1999. Censorship: an editorial about the problems facing today's comic book retailers. Associated Press. "Comic Author Fights Sales Tax Bill" in The Oakland Tribune, 1/11/1996. California Board of Equalization: Summary of Paul Mavrides' fight with the California Board of Equalization to eliminate the sales tax on comics. Belante, Aldyth. "A Few Words About Freedom of Speech" in Overstreet, #8, pp. 104-107, January 1996. CBLDF: An interview with Susan Alston, executive director of the CBLDF, on several cases and CBLDF issues. R., J.F. "Planet Comics Prepares for Hearing, Police Raid Retailer's Home" in The Comics Journal, #183, pp. 15-16. January 1996. Planet Comics: A second police raid was made on the home of John Hunter, they seized business documents, his computer, and over 250 floppy disks. Planet Comics is being driven to financial ruin. Family troubles are stemming from the negative publicity. R., J.F. "Paul Mavrides Wins Appeal, Cartoon Tax Overturned" in The Comics Journal, #183, pp. 12-13. January 1996. California Board of Equalization: Paul Mavrides' appeal is granted by a 3-2 vote. Mavrides says, "now I'm going to blow up Disneyland". Included is a list of the many groups who gave Mavrides support. Coatney, Cary William-Shannon. "Oh, So?" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1159, p. 16. 2/2/1996. Censorship: An editorial written in response to a report by a news station about the San Diego Comic-Con titled "Close Encounters of the Porn Kind: Have comics crossed the line?". Thompson, Maggie. "Editorial" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1159, 2/2/1996. Censorship: A brief editorial comparing the atmosphere surrounding the Planet comics case to the atmosphere that led to the creation of the Comics Code. Abrams, Garry. "Zap! Pow!" in California Law Business, pp. 22-25. 2/5/1996. California Board of Equalization: Excellent article, summarizes the decision to overturn the California sales tax on cartoonist's royalties. Alston, Susan. "CBLDF 1995 in Review" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1160, p. 60. 2/9/1996. CBLDF: A break down of CBLDF case work through 1995, three won, two lost, two still active, and the four that were averted before they became a problem. R., J.F. "Eight Point Appeal Set for Diana Case" in The Comics Journal, #184, pp. 13-16. February 1996. Mike Diana: Detailed article, describes point by point the defense and prosecutions arguments for and against Mike Diana's appeal. "No Censorship-- No Measure 31" in Freedom., Spring 1996. Censorship: A newsletter in opposition to measure 31, a censorship bill in Oregon. It includes various types of media that have had censorship threats brought against them. "Measure 31: An Invitation To Censorship" in ACLU OR(Oregon), Spring 1996. Censorship: An ACLU brief in opposition to the Oregon obscenity measure, includes an information bar on ways to oppose the measure. Ronan, John F. "Planet Comics Closes, Case Continues" in The Comics Journal, #184, pp. 7-10. February 1996. Planet Comics: Business pressures and bad publicity created from the trial has driven Planet Comics out of business. Details changes to the charges against the two store owners. Includes a general history of Planet comics. Gray, Bob. "Picking Our Fights Is supporting every title worth a jail term?" in Comics Retailer, pp. 26-27. March 1996. Censorship: An editorial which takes a pragmatic look at censorship. Is the fight worth it when the risk is so great? "Planet Comics Closes" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1165, p. 6. 3/15/1996. Planet Comics: A quick look at the Planet Comics case up to the closing of the store. Williams, Scott. "Toons on Trial" in Public News, #720, p. 14. Houston Texas. 3/27/1996. Planet Comics: Severely questions the logic of the charges against the Planet Comics store owners, particularly the child pornography charge. Interview with Frank Thorne, Devil's Angel creator. S., G. "Charges Reduced In Planet Comics Hearing" in The Comics Journal, #186, p.15. April 1996. Planet Comics: The child pornography charge has been dropped, the three felony charges have been changed to misdemeanors. Interview with the DA on the charges and the police raids. S., G. "Singin' The Blues: Winter Brothers File Lawsuit Against DC Over Comic Depiction" in The Comics Journal, #186, pp. 11-14. April 1996. Winter Brothers: The Winter Brothers have filed a law suit against the DC creators of Jonah Hex: Riders of the Worm and Such saying that two of the stories characters, "The Autumn Brothers", are a malicious defamation. The indemnification clause in the creators contracts may cause DC to settle out of court and send the financial recourse to the creators. Describes the arguments of the plaintiff and defendant. "Dialogue" in Comics Retailer, pp. 8, 10, 12, 14, 18. May 1996. Censorship: Various editorials challenge Bob Gray's editorial on pragmatism in censorship printed in the March 1996 issue of Comics Retailer (see above). Miller, John Jackson. "Editorial" in Comics Retailer, p. 6. May 1996. Censorship: An editorial that looks at the way the comic industry handles censorship. "Charges Reduced in Planet Comics Case Child Pornography Charge is Dropped" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1174, p. 6. 5/17/1996. Planet Comics: Child pornography charges are dropped, the prosecution appeals to turn the three misdemeanors back to felonies. Includes a Planet Comics timeline. S., G. "Felony Charges Reinstated Against Planet Comics" in The Comics Journal, #187, p. 16. May 1996. Planet Comics: Two of the three misdemeanor charges have been reinstated as felonies in a state requested appeal hearing. The prosecution has requested an appeal to upgrade the third charge in the highest court in Oklahoma. Stump, Greg. "CBLDF Backs Truman/Lansdale/Glanzman" in The Comics Journal, #187, p. 9. May 1996. Winter Brothers: Article breaks down the civil suit against the creators of Jonah Hex: Riders of the Worm and Such. Interviews with the three creators. "Judge Upholds Obscenity Conviction Against Artist" in The Tampa Tribune, p. 6. 6/1/1996. Mike Diana: The Florida courts denied Mike Diana's appeal and maintained all counts but that of advertising obscenity. Pittman, Craig. "Cartoonist's Conviction Upheld" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1. 6/4/1996. Mike Diana: Mike Diana's appeal has been denied by the Supreme Court of Florida on every count but that of advertising. Susan Alston, CBLDF executive director, would like to take the case to the Federal Supreme Court. The article also recaps the initial conviction. "Grotesque, But Not Obscene" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 14A. 6/12/1996. Mike Diana: An editorial, Diana's artwork may appeal to peoples prurient interest, but it has redeeming social value. Weiberzahl, Sue. "Store Owner, Vexed By Obscenity Law, Turns To Comic Book Legal Defense Fund" in Syracuse Herald Journal, vol. 120, pp. A1, A14. 6/12/1996. George's Comics, Syracuse: George Georgiade is being made an example, with a 1980 obscenity law that prohibits any material with nudity, sex, extreme violence or obscenities within 1,000 feet of a park school church or residence. He will have to remove almost %50 of his inventory to comply. The CBLDF and Legal council Burton Joseph have agreed to help him fight the citation. Alston, Susan. "Oh, So?" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1179, pp. 21-22. 6/21/1996. CBLDF (Foreign): An editorial that addresses the CBLDF mission statement and difficulties on aiding those outside the US "Diana Loses Obscenity Conviction Appeal" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1180, p. 6. 6/28/1996. Mike Diana: The Sixth Judicial Court of Florida upheld two of the three obscenity convictions against Mike Diana. The count that was overturned was the count of advertising obscene material. Anderson, Mark K. "Truth, Justice and the American Way" in The Valley Advocate, 1996. CBLDF: An article describing what the CBLDF does and a breakdown of CBLDF case work. Stump, Greg. "Obscenity Charges Upheld as Diana Loses Appeal" in The Comics Journal, #188, pp. 7-8. July 1996. Mike Diana: The Highest Court in Florida has upheld Two of Three obscenity convictions against Mike Diana. The ACLU was denied the ability to participate in the trial. Provides assorted details of the trail. Groth, Gary. "It Has To Do With Our Puritanical Roots," in The Comics Journal, #188, pp. 61-69. July 1996. Censorship: A very thorough and in depth interview with Nadine Strossen ACLU national president. They address censorship throughout our history, specific comic cases, the Supreme Court, obscenity law, and the first amendment. Bongiorni, Sara. "First Amendment Issues Surface At This Year's Comic Convention" in San Diego Daily Transcript, vol. 111, #135, pp. 1A, 12A. 6/5/1996. CBLDF (Censorship): First amendment issues will be a focus at the 1996 Comic-Con International in San Diego. Perry, Matt. "George Battles a Dragon" in Syracuse NewsTimesx, p. 6. 7/10-7/17/1996. Goerge's Comics, Syracuse: George Georgiade is being cited for an obscenity law while topless bars down the street go free. The law he is being cited for is extremely vague and will be challenged by the CBLDF and legal council Burton Joseph. The area in which his store is located has been going down hill for years. Doherty, John. "Comic Store Owner Continues Fight With City" in Syracuse Herald Journal, p. A9. 8/7/1996. George's Comics, Syracuse: George's deadline for removing objectionable material is drawing closer, he has removed all adult videos, but nothing rated R or lower. Moriarty, Rick. "Comic-store Owner Sales Off Adult Movies to Avoid Crackdown" in The Post-Standard, p. C3. 8/8/1996. George's Comics, Syracuse: George has sold off all his X-rated movies in a hope to satiate city officials. The City has refused to define exactly what materials in his shop violate the law. Dean, Michael. "Retailer Faces Possible Prosecution" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1186, 8/9/1996. George's Comics, Syracuse: The Deadline to remove adult material passed without incident, but the city has told him that they will prosecute unless the store is moved or brought into compliance with the anti-adult material ordinance. Everyday he's is open its more and more likely he'll be arrested. Sula, Mike. "Shocks to the System" in Reader, vol. 25, # 44, pp. 1, 28-32. 8/9/1996. George's Comics, Syracuse: An article about Mike Diana's alternative publisher Shane Bugby. "CBLDF presents Defender of Liberty Award in San Diego" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1188, 8/23/1996. CBLDF: The CBLDF gives it's first Defender of Liberty awards to Paul Mavrides and Dave Sim. "Comics Under Fire" in Playboy Forum, September 1996. Planet Comics: recaps the Planet Comic raid and case. Overzealous prosecutors doesn't have to prove material obscene, they simply need to make the cost of fighting too high. Helmer, William J. "Comics: Threat or Menace?" in Playboy Forum, September 1996. Censorship: An editorial, one man recalls the Senate hearings on comics in the 1950's, the Comics Code, and the more recent censorship cases. S., G. "DC Standing Behind Creators In Jonah Hex Lawsuit" in The Comics Journal, #190, pp. 21-26. September 1996. Winter Brothers; George's Comics, Syracuse: A CBLDF update, DC will defend the creators of Jonah Hex in their lawsuit with the Winter Brothers. A comic retailer in Syracuse, avoids prosecution but is forced to remove a quarter of his inventory, updates on Mike Diana and Planet Comics. Roseilli, Mario. "DA Says Comic Book Violates Several Laws" in The Clarton-Ledger, October 1996. Maxx 26: After leafing through an issue of Maxx 26: the origin of Mr. Gone, a mother goes ballistic, She calls the local DA who holds a press conference to warn the town about the comic and manages to keep the book from being shipped to any store in the Jackson Mississippi metro area. Spurgeon, Tom., Stump, Greg. "What's the Story Behind Diamond's Rejection of Mike Diana?" in The Comics Journal, #192, pp. 7-10. December 1996. Mike Diana: Shane Bugby accuses Diamond Distribution of laying a blanket condemnation over Mike Diana refusing to distribute any of his works for fear of "getting in trouble". Diamond used procedures used for no other artist in making the decision not to carry his work. Diamond denies the claims Fleming, John. "A Dangerous Man?" in Florida Humanities Council Forum, pp. 20-24. Winter 1996/1997. Mike Diana: The article addresses the Mike Diana trial, particularly how he has become a martyr and will have more influence now than he ever would have otherwise. Pittman, Craig. "Cartoonist's Obscenity Appeal Denied" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 3. 1/25/97 Mike Diana: The 2nd District Court of Appeals refused to hear Mike Diana's Obscenity appeal, which is he end of the line for the case, he now has to begin serving his sentence. Dean, Michael. "Florida Court Denies Appeal Of Diana Obscenity Conviction" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1213, p. 8. 2/14/1997. Mike Diana: Mike Diana has exhausted all his appeals within the state of Florida without an overturn, the only remaining course of action is to apply for a writ of habeas corpus from a federal court. Only 3% of the cases submitted to the Supreme Court are accepted. Raphael, Jordan. "12 of Your Peers..." in The Comics Journal, #193, pp. 29-32. February 1997. Planet Comics: An interview with John Hunter, and Michael Kennedy Planet Comics owners. They discuss the trial and the affect the trial has had on their business and lives. S., G. "Another Legal Setback for Mike Diana" in The Comics Journal, #193, pp. 13-17. February 1997. Mike Diana: Mike Diana's appeal is denied by the State of Florida, a Federal appeal is unlikely. Mike Diana's work has been seized by UK customs based on his reputation in the US. Diamond Distributors refuses to carry Diana's work, they site poor sales. "Hearing Favors Planet Comics" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1217, p. 6. 3/14/1997. Planet Comics: The prosecutions appeal to upgrade the final misdemeanor charge to a felony has been denied, which clears the way for the case to go to trial in late spring or early fall. S., G. "A Small Victory for Planet Comics Retailers" in The Comics Journal, #194, pp. 14-15. March 1997. Planet Comics: Detailed article, the prosecutions appeal to upgrade the final misdemeanor charge to a felony has been denied, which clears the way for the case to go to trial in the late spring or early fall. S., G. "Showdown in Huntington Beach" in The Comics Journal, #195, pp. 17-18. April 1997. HB Comics and Cards, Huntington Beach: Lisa Whiteman has been denied the ability to rent a space next to a public library because the library director, Ron Haydon, found the some of the material offensive. Stump, Greg. "ACLU, CBLDF Team Up to Petition Diana Case to the Supreme Court" in The Comics Journal, #195, pp. 7-8. April 1997. Mike Diana: With the aid of the ACLU the CBLDF was willing to maintain funding the Mike Diana case in order to petition the United States Supreme Court. This is the first CBLDF Supreme Court petition. Diana has been granted his request to serve out his sentence in New York City. S., G. "Davis and Davis Join CBLDF Board" in The Comics Journal, #195, p. 8. April 1997. CBLDF: Peter David, Comics Buyer's Guide Columnist, and John Davis, former Capital City Distribution Co-owner, have been added to the CBLDF board. Covert, Henry. "Scratch Comix" in Indie File, The Carolinas' Music Monthly, June 1997. Censorship (CBLDF): An interview with Neil Gaiman, he discusses Censorship, CBLDF case work, and his work in comics. Stump, Greg. "Diamond Carries Top Shelf #5, Raising Questions About Diana Incident" in The Comics Journal, #197, pp. 14-15. July 1997. Mike Diana: Citing poor sales reasons, Diamond Distributors did not carry Top Shelf #4 , an alternative anthology with a short piece by Mike Diana, however Diamond has recently decided to carry Top Shelf #5, which does not carry any of Diana's work. Mike Diana starts to work off his community service hours with the CBLDF, and speaks publicly with Neil Gaiman. Pittman, Craig. "Supreme Court Will Not Hear Obscenity Case" in St. Petersburg Times, p. 1. 7/2/1997. Mike Diana: The US Supreme Court refused to hear Mike Diana's appeal, there is no other court in which to appeal, the conviction stands. Stump, Greg. "They Said 'No"': Supreme Court Declines To Hear Diana's Petition" in The Comics Journal, #198, pp. 7-8. August 1997. Mike Diana: The Supreme Court denies Mike Diana's appeal without comment. Diana will begin serving his sentence. According to the ACLU the case has very little value as a precedent for those wishing to prosecute other obscenity cases. S., G. "Tables Turn On Oklahoma City Authorities" in The Comics Journal, #198, pp. 9-10. August 1997. Planet Comics: Oklahoma City police have been charged with procedural violation for seizing copies of the film "The Tin Drum". The lawsuits may indirectly aid the Planet Comics case because they are aimed at the same group of individuals who brought the Planet Comics store owners to trial. S., G. "New Distinction in Child Porn Laws Raises Concerns" in The Comics Journal, #198, p. 11. August 1997. Child Pornography Prevention Act: A new law passed by congress prohibits any visual image of minors in sexual situations. Burton Joseph, Legal council for the CBLDF, calls it hopelessly vague. Could create serious problems for comic art. Bailey, Holly. "Planet Comics Case Comes to Close With Plea Bargain by Former Owners" in The Oklahoma Gazette, 9/10/1997. Planet Comics: Michael Kennedy and John Hunter have plead guilty in exchange for three years probation and $1,500 in fines. Questions the actions of the obscenity watchdog group OkaF for the Planet Comics case and their involvement in the "Tin Drum" incident. Dean, Michael. "Planet Comics Owners Plead Guilty in Return for Reduced Sentence" in Comics Buyers Guide, #1245, p. 6. 9/26/1997. Planet Comics: Michael Kennedy and John Hunter have plead guilty in Return for a reduced sentence. They did so without consulting the CBLDF whose policy is only to take cases where the defendants agree not to plead guilty. Includes a perspective on whether they could have won the case, and the possible repercussions of this action. "Oh! Klahoma City's Censorship Battle" in Censorship News, #67, pp. 1-2. Fall 1997. Planet Comics: A newsletter from the NCAC, it gives a breakdown of Oklahoma City's recent crusade for censorship. Rogers, Adam. "Arrested Development" in Wizard the guide to comics, #74, pp. 38-40. October 1997. Mike Diana: summarizes Mike Diana's life. His early years, the trial, and what he's doing now. Includes a timeline. Stump, Greg. "Sudden End To Planet Comics Case: Retailers Plead Guilty Just Days Before Trial, But Avoid Jail Time" in The Comics Journal, #199, pp. 13-15. October 1997. Planet Comics: Details of the legal proceedings and plea bargain in the Planet Comics case, and what these actions may mean both to the industry and Verotika #4. Interviews with the CBLDF. S., G. "Alston Leaves the CBLDF" in The Comics Journal, #199, p. 15. October 1997. CBLDF: Executive director Susan Alston has left the CBLDF during the recent lapse in cases. Details her work with the fund. S., G. "Child Porn Act to be Challenged by First Amendment Advocates" in The Comics Journal, #199, p. 9. October 1997. Child Pornography Prevention Act: Though specifically designed to target the Internet, vagueness of wording of a new Child Porn Act could have implications on all who work in the visual medium, including film and comics. These complaints have led to formal federal complaint against the act. "Chris Oarr Named New Executive Director of CBLDF" in The Comics Journal, #201, p. 21. January 1998. CBLDF: Chris Oarr, the primary organizer of the Small Press Expo has been elected as the new executive director of the CBLDF. S., G. "Key Charges Dismissed in Jonah Hex Lawsuit Dismissed by Judge" in The Comics Journal, #201, p. 15. January 1997. Winter Brothers: The defamation lawsuit brought against "Jonah Hex" creators by the Winter Brothers for two comic book characters "The Autumn brothers" has been dismissed. Jonah Hex publisher DC paid the creators legal fees. S., G. "Princess Diana Comic 'Slips Through the Cracks'" in The Comics Journal, #201, pp. 10-12. January 1998. Censorship: A questionable and unequally applied policy of Diamond Distributing on unauthorized biographies could potentially lead to a lawsuit funded by the CBLDF. "Oarr Steers CBLDF" in Comic Shop News, #557, 1998. CBLDF: Chris Oarr, primary organizer of the Small Press Expo, has been named as the new executive director of the CBLDF. Claxton, George W. (III). "Freedom is Never Free or The Perils of Being an Artist in the Bible Belt" in VMAG, #5, pp. 20-21. March 1998. Mike Diana: Summarizes the Mike Diana as the first Cartoonist to be convicted of obscenity. Includes a summary of what the CBLDF does. LeBlanc, David. " Interview with Chris Oarr" in Kluttered Visions, #10, pp. 23-26. Spring 1998. CBLDF (Censorship): An interview with CBLDF executive director Chris Oarr. He discuses the CBLDF, censorship, and his work with the Small Press Expo. "No Justice, No Piece #2 Will Continue Support of First Amendment Rights" in Diamond Dialogue, p. 36. May 1998. CBLDF: A portion of the profits from "No Justice, No Piece" #2,a collection of stories and artwork against censorship will be donated to the CBLDF. Stump, Greg. "Teenage 'Zinesters Under Fire" in The Comics Journal, #204, p. 12. May 1998. Kent, Wa.; Miami Fla. 'Zine crimes: Students in Both Kent and Miami have come under fire from their schools for distributing zines with a satirical nature. The ACLU became involved in the Miami case. Sanglacomo, Michael. "Adult Issues Denied Protection" in The Republican, 5/10/1998. Censorship: An editorial style article which tries to determine why the Mike Diana and Planet Comics cases happened at all. "Oni Press to Aid CBLDF With Free Speeches" in Diamond Dialogue, p. 40. June 1998. CBLDF: "Free Speeches" from Oni Press is a collection of speeches on censorship and the first amendment, proceeds go to the CBLDF. Dean, Michael. "How to Handle an Obscenity Complaint" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1284, p. 6. 6/26/1998. Censorship: Roy Booth of Bemidji Minn. and Burton Joseph, CBLDF legal council, provide a good example of the proper way to diffuse a complaint against a comic store. Dean, Michael. "Clipping Service" in Comics Buyer's Guide, #1285, July 3, 1998. Mike Diana: Quick article, Mike Diana was interviewed on Good Morning America as a preview of a special news report titled Sex, Drugs, and Consenting Adults. Caldwell, Samantha E. "Comic Book Legal Defense Fund" in Lawyers for the Creative Arts Newsletter, 6/16/1998. CBLDF: Excellent article describes exactly what the CBLDF is and what it does. Includes a source bibliography. Groth, Gary. "Since None of You Asked..." in The Comics Journal, #206, pp. 1-2. August 1998. CBLDF: Assorted Fundraising ideas for the CBLDF. "Bongo Confronts Censorship with Simpsons Comics #39" in Diamond Dialogue, August 1998. CBLDF: A "Simpsons" satire on Comic Book Censorship. "Mike Diana: Petition Denied" in Tail Spins, #31, p. 67. August 1998. Mike Diana: Summarizes The Mike Diana trial from its beginnings to the Supreme Court denial in a section called "Mike Diana Update". O'Leary, Devin D. "Comic Booked" in Weekly Alibi, pp. 28-29. 9/2/1998. Case Histories: A breakdown of all major CBLDF case work starting with Friendly Frank's. Includes a brief timeline of the adult comics movement and comic censorship by decades. O'Leary, Devin D. "Give Them an Inch..." in Weekly Alibi, 9/2/1998. CBLDF: "Free Speeches" from Oni Press is a collection of speeches on censorship and the first amendment. Proceeds go to the Comic Book Legal defense Fund. "Harlan Ellison Receives 1998 Defender of Liberty Award" in Big Planet Orbit, vol. 2, #10, October 1998. CBLDF: Writer Harlan Ellison has been given the 1998 Defender of Liberty award at DragonCon for his efforts to promote free speech in the comics community. "CBLDF Names Harlan Ellison 1998 Defender of Liberty" in Diamond Dialogue, p. 7. October 1998. CBLDF: Writer Harlan Ellison has been given the 1998 Defender of Liberty award at DragonCon for his efforts to promote free speech in the comics community. Easter, David. "CBLDF Counsel Addresses PACER" in Comics Retailer, December 1998. CBLDF: CBLDF legal council Burton Joseph answers questions concerning display laws. Shukov, Victor. "Drawn By the Darkness" in The Gazette, Canada, 1/17/1999. Censorship: This article tells us that today's comics are evil demoralizing trash that pander to innocent children. Books: Sabin, Roger. Comics, Comix, and Graphic Novels, Phaidon, 1996. Adelman, B. Tijuana Bibles. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1997. Fukushima, A. Manga and the Japanese: Disecting the myth of harmful comics ruining the nation. Tokyo: Nihon Bungeisha, 1992. Juno, A., ed. Dangerous Drawings: Interviews with comix and graphix artists. New York: Juno Books, 1997. Sabin, R. Adult Comics: An introduction. New York: Routledge, 1993. Legal Publications: "Media Self-Regulation of Depictions of Violence: A Last Opportunity," 47 Oklahoma Law Review 445, (1994). Laws: Cases: Lee v. The State of Georgia, 214 Ga. App 164; 447 S.E.2d 323 (1994). Florida v. Micheal Diana