The Comic Relief

What Can Smaller Fundraisers Learn From Comic Relief and Its Fundraising Ideas?

Comic Relief in the UK is now one of the most well known, popular and successful charity fundraising events in the world. The 2009 event raised over £60 million which will be spent on development projects mostly in Africa but also in the UK. The money is raised through a day of "Be Funny For Money" events and an evening of television comedy, sketches, send ups and skits with the public pledging money online and via the telephone.

Comic Relief is notable for the participation of high profile celebrities all willing to get involved and often send themselves up. The comedians and celebrities who take part are however only one part of a story that seems to really capture the public's imagination. Across the UK all sorts of Comic Relief events take place as people look for ways to "Be Funny For Money". The list of fundraising ideas range from simple charity head shaves, body waxing, beard dyeing, baked bean bath sitting to much more elaborate events. Most schools also take part with many opting for No Uniform Days where the kids dress up in amusing costumes in exchange for a donation etc. My own daughter's small school raised a very laudable £300.00 this way - while also having a lot of fun.

Musing on this made me wonder why certain events will capture people's hearts and bring in the money while others struggle. There is never one simple answer of course. Comic Relief has a lot of resources behind it, and celebrity backing that most non-profits would give their right arms for. However I believe that behind all that are a few very simple things that are relevant to all fundraisers. Ok as fundraisers we are never going to be able to match up to something like Comic Relief. But sometimes it does no harm to analyse the success of something to see what lessons we can learn

Comic Relief offer-

1. A very simple, well articulated message.

2. An inclusiveness - this is cleverly woven in to everything they do. The celebrities and the people working on the street or in their office are all clearly part of a bigger idea and there is little room for ego. Comic Relief have attained the unique position where it is cool to be part of things and it is those not participating who are on the outside.

3. Clear actions to support the appeal that are very easy to do. Buy a fundraising product or ring / click in with a donation.

4.Plenty of enthusiasm. The lifeblood of fundraising.

5.Success - Comic Relief are careful to show where your donations go and the difference they make. Its making a difference that people are buying into.

6. Plenty of fun. Comic Relief actually is funny. The events are great to be involved in. The night of comedy TV will be discussed at work and schools the next day.

I believe that these simple things which work so well for Comic Relief can also help fundraisers working on much smaller scales too. You just need to slow down and take a good hard look at your fundraising ideas and plans. So whether you are planning a simple school fundraiser or a more complicated charity fundraising programme take inspiration from an organisation who do it well. There are lessons here for us all.



Comic Relief - Anxiety & Panic

My husband and I watched a movie over the weekend. "Without a Paddle",
have you seen it?

What's interesting in this movie, is one of the guys is a doctor
and claims to develop a new phobia every day. In one scene he actually
resorts to repeating lines from Star Wars (he is a big star wars fan)
in order to block out thoughts of fear.

Ok ok, so at the time that he was attempting this tactic he was
being chased by a bunch of thugs that wanted to kill him. I would
call that "appropriate anxiety", and "appropriate anxiety" is
built-in to us from birth, it can save your life.

However, there is something to be learnt from the tactic that
he is using to block out the fear he is feeling. He is pushing
the bad thoughts aside and trying to replace them with something
he enjoys (Star Wars).

So next time your feeling the mighty "big fear", try to push those
thoughts aside, and replace those fearful thoughts with something
you "enjoy" thinking about.

I recommend you all get this movie out. Not for the factor of
observing "his" phobias, but simply because it is entertaining
and a barrel full of laughs. Watching comedy movies can very
therapeutic and will take you away from your day to day drudgery
of dealing with anxiety & panic.

In fact, I once heard that a guy cured himself from cancer by watching
comedy movies for 8 hours each day. Think I heard that on one of my
Tony Robbins CD's. There is some food for thought for you ;-)



5 Great Options For Comic Relief on Satellite TV


Everybody needs a laugh now and then, and lately it seems like comic relief is being sought out more and more. When times start going bad, comedy can be a much-needed companion. If you are a satellite TV subscriber and need a laugh at any time, you can take advantage of the numerous options available to you. Whether it be movies, stand-up performances or the original series being offered by the premium networks, you have no excuse for keeping the frown on your face. Check out these five solutions.

1. Bill Maher...But I'm Not Wrong. Mr. Politically Incorrect himself has a whole new slew of topics to explore since he last took center stage on the HBO HD networks. In this brand-new performance taped at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, Maher gets into all the latest action from the American scene, from what he calls 'fake patriotism' to the transgressions of governors from the state just below that of his North Carolina audience. You can be sure that he won't be pulling any punches.

2. The Ricky Gervais Show. You may have become familiar with Ricky Gervais from the original Office or the hit film The Invention of Lying, but there's more on the way from this new force in comedy. Reprising a series of podcasts that had an unbelievable large audience, this animated show features three characters - Gervais and two collaborators - who discuss what is going on inside their strange minds. With Gervais, you can sure a lot of squirming - and a lot of laughter - will be on the menu.

3. Arrested Development. The cast of this series - Michael Cera, Jason Bateman, Jeffrey Tambor - can be found in all of the latest hit movies, but this series had them all gathered together in peak form. It's no wonder that many continue to call this show one of the best comedies to ever hit the airwaves. Though it was cancelled in its prime, satellite TV subscribers can relive the hilarious moments again and again on IFC repeats or utilizing the On-Demand feature.

4. Dr. Strangelove. Strangelove is one those characters etched into the imagination of several generations at this point, and it's a good time to relive this classic film in HD on Turner Classic Movies. Peter Sellers outdid himself, playing three roles, but none is more convincing than the good doctor himself. If the War Room were this much fun in reality, our security would be in less than the safest hands. This hilarious film will brighten up any day - especially when you are tired of the hypocrisy of the times.

5. Curb Your Enthusiasm. Larry David and his dyspeptic crew are out there, reading between the lines and making one another furious yet again. This already classic series has only enhanced the sterling reputation of one of satellite TV's best networks, HBO. Whatever you think about your own personal relationships, you'll find a more dysfunctional version on this show, guaranteed to make you smile.



Comic Relief Compliments of the U.S. Government and Attorney General John Ashcroft

Comic relief compliments of the U.S. government and former attorney general John Ashcroft during the senate congressional hearings and inquisition of corruption throughout the Bush administration.

Funny ...while catching up on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart concerning some hearings with gov't officials...these remarks came from former Attorney General John Ashcroft when he was questioned. Ashcroft replied:

"I must admit that its been difficult for me sometimes to distinguish between what I in fact recall as a matter of my own experience and what I remember from the accounts of others."

"Any statement I did or did not make, or would or would not make in a classified setting, I would not comment on."

"I can't answer a hypothetical about what the President might or might not have done."

"I don't have any recollection of an awareness of that."

"My communications with the President are privileged communications."

"I'm trying to think of all the reasons that are appropriate for met to refuse to answer that question."

What a beautiful thing it is when one is so educated and intellectually clever enough to be evasive, while obstructing the very justice system he was hired to uphold. This certainly gives the American people great confidence in the government and justice department that so quickly penalizes we the people for the smallest infraction, while obstructing justice themselves at the highest level and then denying all wrong doing without hesitation.

There's your comic relief for the day compliments of the U.S. government.

It's sad and unfortunate that the American people cannot even trust the highest judicial office in the land to be straight and forthright with we the people. Is it any wonder America has more criminals and people incarcerated than any nation on earth? We learned from the best, beginning with are governmentally appointed officials.

Corruption in high places filters down and saturates society, making us untrustworthy reprobates seeking merely our own rather than what is good for all.

Comical and pitiful indeed.

Invite worldwide minister Paul F Davis and author to speak in your city! RevivingNations@yahoo.com (or) gmail.com

If you liked what you read, check out Paul's new book "A New Earth - Connect with Your Creator & Experience Endless Awakenings" (a 200 page Christian response and perspective to Eckhart Tolle and Oprah's 'New Earth')

Paul's new book at http://paulfdavis.com/booksvideos.htm

Paul Davis is a highly sought after worldwide minister who moves in the miraculous to touch and transform humanity.

Paul has a unique ability to hear the voice of God, naturally bring forth the supernatural in a playful and heartfelt fashion, unlock and simply explain divine mysteries, impart life changing revelation, and usher in powerful manifestation bringing heaven to earth.

What Can Smaller Fundraisers Learn From Comic Relief and Its Fundraising Ideas?

Comic Relief in the UK is now one of the most well known, popular and successful charity fundraising events in the world. The 2009 event raised over £60 million which will be spent on development projects mostly in Africa but also in the UK. The money is raised through a day of "Be Funny For Money" events and an evening of television comedy, sketches, send ups and skits with the public pledging money online and via the telephone.

Comic Relief is notable for the participation of high profile celebrities all willing to get involved and often send themselves up. The comedians and celebrities who take part are however only one part of a story that seems to really capture the public's imagination. Across the UK all sorts of Comic Relief events take place as people look for ways to "Be Funny For Money". The list of fundraising ideas range from simple charity head shaves, body waxing, beard dyeing, baked bean bath sitting to much more elaborate events. Most schools also take part with many opting for No Uniform Days where the kids dress up in amusing costumes in exchange for a donation etc. My own daughter's small school raised a very laudable £300.00 this way - while also having a lot of fun.

Musing on this made me wonder why certain events will capture people's hearts and bring in the money while others struggle. There is never one simple answer of course. Comic Relief has a lot of resources behind it, and celebrity backing that most non-profits would give their right arms for. However I believe that behind all that are a few very simple things that are relevant to all fundraisers. Ok as fundraisers we are never going to be able to match up to something like Comic Relief. But sometimes it does no harm to analyse the success of something to see what lessons we can learn

Comic Relief offer-

1. A very simple, well articulated message.

2. An inclusiveness - this is cleverly woven in to everything they do. The celebrities and the people working on the street or in their office are all clearly part of a bigger idea and there is little room for ego. Comic Relief have attained the unique position where it is cool to be part of things and it is those not participating who are on the outside.

3. Clear actions to support the appeal that are very easy to do. Buy a fundraising product or ring / click in with a donation.

4.Plenty of enthusiasm. The lifeblood of fundraising.

5.Success - Comic Relief are careful to show where your donations go and the difference they make. Its making a difference that people are buying into.

6. Plenty of fun. Comic Relief actually is funny. The events are great to be involved in. The night of comedy TV will be discussed at work and schools the next day.

I believe that these simple things which work so well for Comic Relief can also help fundraisers working on much smaller scales too. You just need to slow down and take a good hard look at your fundraising ideas and plans. So whether you are planning a simple school fundraiser or a more complicated charity fundraising programme take inspiration from an organisation who do it well. There are lessons here for us all.



Comic Relief - Anxiety & Panic

My husband and I watched a movie over the weekend. "Without a Paddle",
have you seen it?

What's interesting in this movie, is one of the guys is a doctor
and claims to develop a new phobia every day. In one scene he actually
resorts to repeating lines from Star Wars (he is a big star wars fan)
in order to block out thoughts of fear.

Ok ok, so at the time that he was attempting this tactic he was
being chased by a bunch of thugs that wanted to kill him. I would
call that "appropriate anxiety", and "appropriate anxiety" is
built-in to us from birth, it can save your life.

However, there is something to be learnt from the tactic that
he is using to block out the fear he is feeling. He is pushing
the bad thoughts aside and trying to replace them with something
he enjoys (Star Wars).

So next time your feeling the mighty "big fear", try to push those
thoughts aside, and replace those fearful thoughts with something
you "enjoy" thinking about.

I recommend you all get this movie out. Not for the factor of
observing "his" phobias, but simply because it is entertaining
and a barrel full of laughs. Watching comedy movies can very
therapeutic and will take you away from your day to day drudgery
of dealing with anxiety & panic.

In fact, I once heard that a guy cured himself from cancer by watching
comedy movies for 8 hours each day. Think I heard that on one of my
Tony Robbins CD's. There is some food for thought for you ;-)



5 Great Options For Comic Relief on Satellite TV


Everybody needs a laugh now and then, and lately it seems like comic relief is being sought out more and more. When times start going bad, comedy can be a much-needed companion. If you are a satellite TV subscriber and need a laugh at any time, you can take advantage of the numerous options available to you. Whether it be movies, stand-up performances or the original series being offered by the premium networks, you have no excuse for keeping the frown on your face. Check out these five solutions.

1. Bill Maher...But I'm Not Wrong. Mr. Politically Incorrect himself has a whole new slew of topics to explore since he last took center stage on the HBO HD networks. In this brand-new performance taped at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, Maher gets into all the latest action from the American scene, from what he calls 'fake patriotism' to the transgressions of governors from the state just below that of his North Carolina audience. You can be sure that he won't be pulling any punches.

2. The Ricky Gervais Show. You may have become familiar with Ricky Gervais from the original Office or the hit film The Invention of Lying, but there's more on the way from this new force in comedy. Reprising a series of podcasts that had an unbelievable large audience, this animated show features three characters - Gervais and two collaborators - who discuss what is going on inside their strange minds. With Gervais, you can sure a lot of squirming - and a lot of laughter - will be on the menu.

3. Arrested Development. The cast of this series - Michael Cera, Jason Bateman, Jeffrey Tambor - can be found in all of the latest hit movies, but this series had them all gathered together in peak form. It's no wonder that many continue to call this show one of the best comedies to ever hit the airwaves. Though it was cancelled in its prime, satellite TV subscribers can relive the hilarious moments again and again on IFC repeats or utilizing the On-Demand feature.

4. Dr. Strangelove. Strangelove is one those characters etched into the imagination of several generations at this point, and it's a good time to relive this classic film in HD on Turner Classic Movies. Peter Sellers outdid himself, playing three roles, but none is more convincing than the good doctor himself. If the War Room were this much fun in reality, our security would be in less than the safest hands. This hilarious film will brighten up any day - especially when you are tired of the hypocrisy of the times.

5. Curb Your Enthusiasm. Larry David and his dyspeptic crew are out there, reading between the lines and making one another furious yet again. This already classic series has only enhanced the sterling reputation of one of satellite TV's best networks, HBO. Whatever you think about your own personal relationships, you'll find a more dysfunctional version on this show, guaranteed to make you smile.



Comic Relief Compliments of the U.S. Government and Attorney General John Ashcroft

Comic relief compliments of the U.S. government and former attorney general John Ashcroft during the senate congressional hearings and inquisition of corruption throughout the Bush administration.

Funny ...while catching up on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart concerning some hearings with gov't officials...these remarks came from former Attorney General John Ashcroft when he was questioned. Ashcroft replied:

"I must admit that its been difficult for me sometimes to distinguish between what I in fact recall as a matter of my own experience and what I remember from the accounts of others."

"Any statement I did or did not make, or would or would not make in a classified setting, I would not comment on."

"I can't answer a hypothetical about what the President might or might not have done."

"I don't have any recollection of an awareness of that."

"My communications with the President are privileged communications."

"I'm trying to think of all the reasons that are appropriate for met to refuse to answer that question."

What a beautiful thing it is when one is so educated and intellectually clever enough to be evasive, while obstructing the very justice system he was hired to uphold. This certainly gives the American people great confidence in the government and justice department that so quickly penalizes we the people for the smallest infraction, while obstructing justice themselves at the highest level and then denying all wrong doing without hesitation.

There's your comic relief for the day compliments of the U.S. government.

It's sad and unfortunate that the American people cannot even trust the highest judicial office in the land to be straight and forthright with we the people. Is it any wonder America has more criminals and people incarcerated than any nation on earth? We learned from the best, beginning with are governmentally appointed officials.

Corruption in high places filters down and saturates society, making us untrustworthy reprobates seeking merely our own rather than what is good for all.

Comical and pitiful indeed.

Invite worldwide minister Paul F Davis and author to speak in your city! RevivingNations@yahoo.com (or) gmail.com

If you liked what you read, check out Paul's new book "A New Earth - Connect with Your Creator & Experience Endless Awakenings" (a 200 page Christian response and perspective to Eckhart Tolle and Oprah's 'New Earth')

Paul's new book at http://paulfdavis.com/booksvideos.htm

Paul Davis is a highly sought after worldwide minister who moves in the miraculous to touch and transform humanity.

Paul has a unique ability to hear the voice of God, naturally bring forth the supernatural in a playful and heartfelt fashion, unlock and simply explain divine mysteries, impart life changing revelation, and usher in powerful manifestation bringing heaven to earth.

the comic strip

How Charlie Brown Became America's Favorite Comic Strip

Let us know something about Charlie Brown first. Above all, Charlie Brown is the main character of the comic strip Peanuts. It is an original illustration and strip by Charles M. Schulz. I am very thankful with this guy because Peanuts characters are one of my favorite things in life. I grew up with this cartoon, although it's already running as a comic strip long before my existence but I still remember how I have loved watching them in front of the television. Actually, everyone loves the comic strip and it has influenced every household during its time.

What I know about Charlie is that he is a simple American boy. There was no mention of his parents and his only sibling sister is Sally that has a good heart to everyone and takes life easy. His got a pet dog named Snoopy that has a little yellow bird friend called Woodstock. He has plenty of friends however and they are his everyday companions. I remember Charlie Brown as a lovable humble kid, quick to get anxious and need self-confidence. He has lots of hope and vey determined but some kids named him as a loser. His peers take advantage of him but he does not mind this. To sum it up, Charlie Brown is a very good boy. Those are the characteristics that he possesses.

I love the way Charlie give affection to her love interest Marcie who wore eyeglasses, wore t-shirts and shorts, to top it all also love him. She has a tomboy best friend called Peppermint Patty and one of his school friends. I also remember her calling Charlie Brown Chuck. One of the regular characters is Lucy who is a selfish little girl and very bossy to everyone especially to Charlie Brown. She has a little brother called Linus the best friend of Charlie that always brings his security blanket with him and a baby brother Rerun who is the youngest character. How I love when Lucy gives attention to her love interest Schroeder who is always playing the piano. There are more characters in Peanuts cartoons that I think was the portrayal of the behaviors of every American kid.

It became so popular during his time because of the common characterization of Charlie and his friends. They are the models of all the personalities you will notice in every kid. You will see different emotions and unconsciously agreeing to all of their representations. The famous character you will see in Charlie Brown is his being neurotic. He is very prone to despair and worry, constantly anxious in anything. All of these and some other things have become the funny stuff during that time.

Charlie Brown has become popular because of their famous characterization and portrayal of everyday life. Its effectiveness has touched the lives of many people; I would say that being funny in their own ways makes them effectual and successful. Lastly, Charlie Brown Cartoon Strip is very educational and young ones can get good things from them.

Funny Comic Strips - How to Make Your First One

When you are actively trying to draw a funny comic strip with cool characters, the only requirement is your creativity (or the desire to draw), imagination and your sense of humor.

With proper strategies, you will be able to make your very first funny comic strip in no time at all. The perfect setting will come along as you go.

How will you make your first funny comic kits?

Step 1: You need to practice drawing cartoons like people, animals, backgrounds and different props normally found in our daily lives such as food items, appliances and other similar items.

Step 2: Once you have basic background on drawing, start creating your characters as if you were creating a movie. Choose catchy names to call your characters and experiment what type of character you wish them to portray. Do not limit yourself since your imagination is unlimited.

Step 3: Stop for a while and think of a plot or a story that will send people laughing. It may be about any other ordinary day that is amusing or a story behind the jokes. Remember, it is your plot and you do what you want with it.

Step 4: Do not finalize your copy on the first try yet. Instead, you should first have a rough copy by utilizing stick figures or abstract drawings to plot your story.

Step 5: Make a catchy title for the entire funny strip.

Step 6: Finalize your strip by completing it with colors, all detail and other essentials. You can also color it through your computer if you are computer savvy.

It is important that when you do the rough copy of your funny strips that you use erasable pencils until you get better at drawing and creating characters. Do not be frustrated if you mess up in your first try since learning starts when you mess up. You just need to be patient and try it out again.

Sometimes a great source of inspiration for your Funny Comic Strips is your family. There could be funny moments that you have shared with your family that you can capture the moment and turn it into a comic strip.


Comic Strips - The Boondocks

The Boondocks is a daily comic strip and now a weekly animation that was created by Aaron McGruder in 1997. Aaron was born in Chicago and went to the University of Maryland where he got his bachelors in African studies. McGruder started writing this strip while working in the presentation center of University of Maryland. His strip debuted in the college's newspaper called Diamondback.

The strip quickly moved from the Diamondback pages in 1997 into the monthly hip hop magazine known as Source. Due to the increasing popularity and loyal fan base of the comic strip, it was then picked up by the Universal Press Syndicate in 1999, making its national debut on April 19 of that same year.

The Boondocks is a popular and very controversial strip, which deals with different issues involving the African-American community, American politics, etc. However, these issues are seen through the eyes of its main character, a ten-year-old African American boy named Huey Freeman.

McGruder sold the television and film rights for The Boondocks to Sony Pictures Entertainment. In the fall of 2005, the strip was adapted into an animated television series with the same name, for Cartoon Network's Adult Swim programming section. The great success of The Boondocks on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim earned it a second season.

Aaron McGruder in his own right is an activist who frequently speaks on political and cultural issues, some which he as even displayed in his comic strip.

To be honest, I don't fully agree on a lot of McGruder's views and approach, but I would definitely give him the respect I think he well earned on his work.

McGruder has been able to display his views about the community in relating to politics, racism, violence and things of this nature. Although McGruder maintains many stereotypes in strip, he tries to keep the strip as accurate as he possibly can. Whether one likes, dislikes, agrees or disagrees with what is portrayed in The Boondocks, I believe most would admit that it is a good comic strip.

Any person who desires to create a good comic strip can definitely learn from McGruder. McGruder knows he has something to say and a story to tell. Even though his story was seen as very controversial stories, and something that would not be successful, he still spoke out and told his story.

In my opinion McGruder has what many comic strip and book creators of this age are lacking, which is the combination of a willingness to tell a purposeful story and passion for the story.

As a writer, author or comic strip creator, you have to have something to say and you have to have something to offer. I say this because many have compromised their voice to try and gain more recognition or make more money.

Creating a strip like The Boondocks comes with a price because of its outspoken nature concerning politics, cultural and socio-economic class issues. The strip has been withheld by newspapers on many occasions. McGruder has received many complaints from whites and blacks as well. And still, no compromise for McGruder. He continues to try and write what he sees, feels and knows, with a voice that is his own.

The point is not to try and make a controversial strip, but staying true to your work and yourself. Don't be a copycat. Everyone has a voice, except many choose to let their voice get lost in the crowd. As a creator you have to have something to say and you must let it be your voice. In my opinion, The Boondocks is a good example of this.



Comic Strips and Their Vast Popularity!

Comic strips are almost as popular as comic books in some
circles. So I would be remiss if I didn't compile an
article about them. Strips have ended up in a multitude of
newspapers and other media all over the world. Most people
who read the Sunday paper can't pass up the comic section.
I know I sure can't.

Comic strips are short strips or pieces of sequential art,
telling a story. They are drawn by cartoonists and are
published on a recurring basis in newspapers, magazines or
on the Internet.

Strips can be humorous like Beetle Bailey, Hi & Lois, or
Hagar the Horrible, with no continuous story but ends with
a typical punch line. Or they can have a soap opera like
continuity (like Judge Parker or Little Orphan Annie) with
serious story lines in serial form. They are, however,
nonetheless known as "comics" - though the term "sequential
art", coined by cartoonist Will Eisner, is becoming
increasingly popular.

In America, the great newspaper icons of the time, Joseph
Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst were continuously
warring with each other during the late 1800's and early
1900's. This created a great popularity in comic strips and
"The Little Bears" was the first American comic with
recurring characters. Then the now famous, "Yellow Kids"
became the first color comic and was part of the first
Sunday comic section in 1897. This is where the term
"yellow journalism" supposedly formed its origin. Mutt and
Jeff was the first daily comic strip appearing in 1907.

Comic strips not only provide us with the laugh each day or
week that we must have to start the day. They also give a
political platform to some of the strip creators in which
they can pass on their social and political opinions.

Comic strips have long held a distorted mirror to
contemporary society. They have long been used for
political and social commentary, ranging from the staunch
conservative values of Little Orphan Annie to the unabashed
liberalism of Doonesbury.

Pogo used animals to particularly devastating effect,
caricaturing many prominent politicians of the day as
animal denizens of Pogo's Okeefenokee Swamp. Creator Walt
Kelly, in a gutsy move, took on Joseph McCarthy in the
1950s, caricaturing him as a bobcat named Simple J.
Malarkey, a megalomaniac bent on taking over the
characters' bird watching club and rooting out all
undesirables.

Kelly also defended the medium against possible government
regulation in the McCarthy era. At a time when comic books
were coming under fire for supposed sexual, violent, and
subversive content, Kelly feared the same would happen to
comic strips. Going before the congressional subcommittee,
he proceeded to charm the members with his drawings and the
force of his personality. Due to his actions, the comic
strip remained safe for creative satire.

Comic strips have also made quite a splash on the Net since
the World Wide Web came into play in the 1990s. This led to
an explosion of amateur webcomics, comic strips created
solely for Web sites. Webcomics differ from published
comic strips, in that anyone can start his own strip and
publish it on the Web. No longer is there any need for a
creator to meet the approval of a publisher or syndicate.

Currently there are hundreds of webcomics. Many of which
are low quality and sporadically updated. However, a number
have endured, and the best ones rival their newspaper and
magazine counterparts in terms of quality and quantity.
Megatokyo, Penny Arcade, PvP, Sluggy Freelance, and User
Friendly are considered to be among the best of the
webcomics.

The majority of traditional newspaper comic strips now have
some Internet presence. Syndicates often provide archives
of recent strips on their websites.

So the next time you sit down to the Sunday paper, take
particular note of the funnies section. Keep your favorite
comic strips near and dear to your heart. And remember the
trials and tribulations these strips have gone through to
continue to provide you with everlasting entertainment.



Public Speaking: Caricature, Cartoons, and Comic Strips

When certain prominent features of something or someone are highlighted and other features are diminished, that is called caricature. Studies have found that it is easier to identify a political leader from a caricature than from a real photograph.

You can use caricatures of yourself in your own promotional material or in your programs to make fun of yourself. You can do the same thing to make fun of your competitors or your competitor's products by amplifying whatever feature you want to emphasize.

Caricature artists are not too hard to locate. Many times you can find them by looking in the yellow pages under the categories of entertainment or party planning because they frequently perform at parties.

Cartoons and Comic Strips are the most universally accepted formats for humor across cultures. Find out why by viewing this website's article:

'Show 'em' When You Cross Cultures'.

There are three ways to use cartoons: first, you can tell the audience about a cartoon you saw; second, you can cut the cartoon out of its publication and show it; and third, you can make up a cartoon yourself.

I saw a cartoon once where a lady was holding a gun to her purse. The caption said, 'Give up the keys!' I use this example in my Business Lite Seminar when I want to illustrate the use of humor to help ease the tension in embarrassing situations. (I have also used this line many times when I am with a woman who is fumbling through her purse.) When I tell the audience I saw a cartoon, it helps them paint a mental picture of what I am describing with words.

Describing a cartoon is an easy method for using cartoons without having them physically available or needing audio/visual equipment to show them. Showing a cartoon is a more powerful way to convey its humorous message. This is especially true in international audiences where the visual aspect takes on a greater significance. In a very small crowd I might hold up the cartoon or I might pass it around. In larger audiences, the cartoon should be projected (don't forget to get permission from the copyright holder) so everyone can see it clearly. I like this method better anyway because I can control when it pops up on the screen. I want everyone to see the cartoon simultaneously so their laughter will be cumulative. Try to fill the frame of the visual with your cartoon or comic strip. You will create a greater impact.

The third way to use cartoons is to make them yourself. When I first started teaching this subject I could not take advantage of this method unless I hired an artist. Things are different now. There are a number of inexpensive computer software programs available which can be used, one of which is Corel Draw. This program has 25,000 pieces of electronic clip art, many of which are cartoons. I can make custom overhead cartoons for my speaking engagements. All I do is pick an applicable cartoon, add a custom caption for my audience.



Your Wedding Ceremony - Comic Strip Teaches About Going With the Flow at a Perfect Wedding

We're now in the last week or so of Lynn Johnston's current version of her comic "For Better or For Worse." Elizabeth is marrying Anthony. She and Anthony moved her wedding ceremony up because she realized how much she wanted her grandfather at the wedding. Her grandfather has had a heart attack and won't be at the wedding. Now, this is the one place I disagree with the decisions being made. The family has decided not to tell Liz that her grandpa is in the hospital before the ceremony. There are a few reasons I think this isn't a great idea:

* Brides and Grooms do pay attention to their community when they're standing up front. One of the things I liked the most about my wedding ceremony was looking at who was there. My parents were elderly and didn't walk with me. I walked in with my God-daughter Hannah. The first thing I did as we all walked in was go and kiss my parents hello. I know that I was an older bride, but for me, one of the most wonderful things about the day was the huge community gathered to celebrate our marriage. It was magical. I would have noticed if my immediate family wasn't there. And if it were a favorite grandpa, I'd have worried. And that would have overset me more than being told. And if I'm happier than I've ever been before in my life, doesn't it stand to reason I'm stronger?
* Brides and grooms are people as well as brides and grooms. Hopefully, they're adults as well. Being married is a wonderful thing and the day is really special. But it isn't so special that life doesn't continue to happen. I was at a wedding where the bride wanted her grandfather to make his fabulous barbecue ribs for the rehearsal dinner. He was elderly, it was too much for him. So, rather than say anything, two cousins went to work and made the barbecue happen. The bride who'd been a little over-indulged and who was a little over-tired, went crazy because it wasn't his sauce. "It's my wedding, can't I at least have things the way I want them?" Ummm. No. Life isn't just about your wedding. In this case, the thought should have been to honor your grandfather's gifts and to be incredibly grateful that your cousins had stepped up. And, up to that point, everyone else had been enjoying the barbecue, but now we all knew it wasn't "perfect."
* When something unexpected happens, particularly something that cuts at the heart of the couple, this is an amazing opportunity to make your ceremony so real and so personal. If I'd been the celebrant and Liz my bride, I'd have put an extra paragraph in to say how central her grandpa had been in their decision about when to marry. I'd have said a prayer for his health. I'd have dedicated the ceremony to him and his two very happy marriages and asked the Liz and Anthony might follow his lead and live happily and healthily in marriage. It's the unexpected moments that can make a wedding ceremony, always a wonderful thing, completely transcendent.
* Liz and Anthony may want to be able to plan for enough energy to sweep into the hospital after the reception with favors for her grandparents and a piece of cake for Iris. He'd be well enough and happy enough for a quick glimpse of his beloved little girl.

Lynn doesn't marry people for a living, so we have to forgive her for not getting all the details right. Not all that many people think about the wedding ceremony as a living, growing entity. But she certainly got the grandfather's heart attack right. Life does continue to happen, even as you plan and live into your spectacular day and your amazing marriage. So embrace it. Your marriage will be better for it and so will your wedding ceremony.

How Charlie Brown Became America's Favorite Comic Strip

Let us know something about Charlie Brown first. Above all, Charlie Brown is the main character of the comic strip Peanuts. It is an original illustration and strip by Charles M. Schulz. I am very thankful with this guy because Peanuts characters are one of my favorite things in life. I grew up with this cartoon, although it's already running as a comic strip long before my existence but I still remember how I have loved watching them in front of the television. Actually, everyone loves the comic strip and it has influenced every household during its time.

What I know about Charlie is that he is a simple American boy. There was no mention of his parents and his only sibling sister is Sally that has a good heart to everyone and takes life easy. His got a pet dog named Snoopy that has a little yellow bird friend called Woodstock. He has plenty of friends however and they are his everyday companions. I remember Charlie Brown as a lovable humble kid, quick to get anxious and need self-confidence. He has lots of hope and vey determined but some kids named him as a loser. His peers take advantage of him but he does not mind this. To sum it up, Charlie Brown is a very good boy. Those are the characteristics that he possesses.

I love the way Charlie give affection to her love interest Marcie who wore eyeglasses, wore t-shirts and shorts, to top it all also love him. She has a tomboy best friend called Peppermint Patty and one of his school friends. I also remember her calling Charlie Brown Chuck. One of the regular characters is Lucy who is a selfish little girl and very bossy to everyone especially to Charlie Brown. She has a little brother called Linus the best friend of Charlie that always brings his security blanket with him and a baby brother Rerun who is the youngest character. How I love when Lucy gives attention to her love interest Schroeder who is always playing the piano. There are more characters in Peanuts cartoons that I think was the portrayal of the behaviors of every American kid.

It became so popular during his time because of the common characterization of Charlie and his friends. They are the models of all the personalities you will notice in every kid. You will see different emotions and unconsciously agreeing to all of their representations. The famous character you will see in Charlie Brown is his being neurotic. He is very prone to despair and worry, constantly anxious in anything. All of these and some other things have become the funny stuff during that time.

Charlie Brown has become popular because of their famous characterization and portrayal of everyday life. Its effectiveness has touched the lives of many people; I would say that being funny in their own ways makes them effectual and successful. Lastly, Charlie Brown Cartoon Strip is very educational and young ones can get good things from them.

Funny Comic Strips - How to Make Your First One

When you are actively trying to draw a funny comic strip with cool characters, the only requirement is your creativity (or the desire to draw), imagination and your sense of humor.

With proper strategies, you will be able to make your very first funny comic strip in no time at all. The perfect setting will come along as you go.

How will you make your first funny comic kits?

Step 1: You need to practice drawing cartoons like people, animals, backgrounds and different props normally found in our daily lives such as food items, appliances and other similar items.

Step 2: Once you have basic background on drawing, start creating your characters as if you were creating a movie. Choose catchy names to call your characters and experiment what type of character you wish them to portray. Do not limit yourself since your imagination is unlimited.

Step 3: Stop for a while and think of a plot or a story that will send people laughing. It may be about any other ordinary day that is amusing or a story behind the jokes. Remember, it is your plot and you do what you want with it.

Step 4: Do not finalize your copy on the first try yet. Instead, you should first have a rough copy by utilizing stick figures or abstract drawings to plot your story.

Step 5: Make a catchy title for the entire funny strip.

Step 6: Finalize your strip by completing it with colors, all detail and other essentials. You can also color it through your computer if you are computer savvy.

It is important that when you do the rough copy of your funny strips that you use erasable pencils until you get better at drawing and creating characters. Do not be frustrated if you mess up in your first try since learning starts when you mess up. You just need to be patient and try it out again.

Sometimes a great source of inspiration for your Funny Comic Strips is your family. There could be funny moments that you have shared with your family that you can capture the moment and turn it into a comic strip.


Comic Strips - The Boondocks

The Boondocks is a daily comic strip and now a weekly animation that was created by Aaron McGruder in 1997. Aaron was born in Chicago and went to the University of Maryland where he got his bachelors in African studies. McGruder started writing this strip while working in the presentation center of University of Maryland. His strip debuted in the college's newspaper called Diamondback.

The strip quickly moved from the Diamondback pages in 1997 into the monthly hip hop magazine known as Source. Due to the increasing popularity and loyal fan base of the comic strip, it was then picked up by the Universal Press Syndicate in 1999, making its national debut on April 19 of that same year.

The Boondocks is a popular and very controversial strip, which deals with different issues involving the African-American community, American politics, etc. However, these issues are seen through the eyes of its main character, a ten-year-old African American boy named Huey Freeman.

McGruder sold the television and film rights for The Boondocks to Sony Pictures Entertainment. In the fall of 2005, the strip was adapted into an animated television series with the same name, for Cartoon Network's Adult Swim programming section. The great success of The Boondocks on Cartoon Network's Adult Swim earned it a second season.

Aaron McGruder in his own right is an activist who frequently speaks on political and cultural issues, some which he as even displayed in his comic strip.

To be honest, I don't fully agree on a lot of McGruder's views and approach, but I would definitely give him the respect I think he well earned on his work.

McGruder has been able to display his views about the community in relating to politics, racism, violence and things of this nature. Although McGruder maintains many stereotypes in strip, he tries to keep the strip as accurate as he possibly can. Whether one likes, dislikes, agrees or disagrees with what is portrayed in The Boondocks, I believe most would admit that it is a good comic strip.

Any person who desires to create a good comic strip can definitely learn from McGruder. McGruder knows he has something to say and a story to tell. Even though his story was seen as very controversial stories, and something that would not be successful, he still spoke out and told his story.

In my opinion McGruder has what many comic strip and book creators of this age are lacking, which is the combination of a willingness to tell a purposeful story and passion for the story.

As a writer, author or comic strip creator, you have to have something to say and you have to have something to offer. I say this because many have compromised their voice to try and gain more recognition or make more money.

Creating a strip like The Boondocks comes with a price because of its outspoken nature concerning politics, cultural and socio-economic class issues. The strip has been withheld by newspapers on many occasions. McGruder has received many complaints from whites and blacks as well. And still, no compromise for McGruder. He continues to try and write what he sees, feels and knows, with a voice that is his own.

The point is not to try and make a controversial strip, but staying true to your work and yourself. Don't be a copycat. Everyone has a voice, except many choose to let their voice get lost in the crowd. As a creator you have to have something to say and you must let it be your voice. In my opinion, The Boondocks is a good example of this.



Comic Strips and Their Vast Popularity!

Comic strips are almost as popular as comic books in some
circles. So I would be remiss if I didn't compile an
article about them. Strips have ended up in a multitude of
newspapers and other media all over the world. Most people
who read the Sunday paper can't pass up the comic section.
I know I sure can't.

Comic strips are short strips or pieces of sequential art,
telling a story. They are drawn by cartoonists and are
published on a recurring basis in newspapers, magazines or
on the Internet.

Strips can be humorous like Beetle Bailey, Hi & Lois, or
Hagar the Horrible, with no continuous story but ends with
a typical punch line. Or they can have a soap opera like
continuity (like Judge Parker or Little Orphan Annie) with
serious story lines in serial form. They are, however,
nonetheless known as "comics" - though the term "sequential
art", coined by cartoonist Will Eisner, is becoming
increasingly popular.

In America, the great newspaper icons of the time, Joseph
Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst were continuously
warring with each other during the late 1800's and early
1900's. This created a great popularity in comic strips and
"The Little Bears" was the first American comic with
recurring characters. Then the now famous, "Yellow Kids"
became the first color comic and was part of the first
Sunday comic section in 1897. This is where the term
"yellow journalism" supposedly formed its origin. Mutt and
Jeff was the first daily comic strip appearing in 1907.

Comic strips not only provide us with the laugh each day or
week that we must have to start the day. They also give a
political platform to some of the strip creators in which
they can pass on their social and political opinions.

Comic strips have long held a distorted mirror to
contemporary society. They have long been used for
political and social commentary, ranging from the staunch
conservative values of Little Orphan Annie to the unabashed
liberalism of Doonesbury.

Pogo used animals to particularly devastating effect,
caricaturing many prominent politicians of the day as
animal denizens of Pogo's Okeefenokee Swamp. Creator Walt
Kelly, in a gutsy move, took on Joseph McCarthy in the
1950s, caricaturing him as a bobcat named Simple J.
Malarkey, a megalomaniac bent on taking over the
characters' bird watching club and rooting out all
undesirables.

Kelly also defended the medium against possible government
regulation in the McCarthy era. At a time when comic books
were coming under fire for supposed sexual, violent, and
subversive content, Kelly feared the same would happen to
comic strips. Going before the congressional subcommittee,
he proceeded to charm the members with his drawings and the
force of his personality. Due to his actions, the comic
strip remained safe for creative satire.

Comic strips have also made quite a splash on the Net since
the World Wide Web came into play in the 1990s. This led to
an explosion of amateur webcomics, comic strips created
solely for Web sites. Webcomics differ from published
comic strips, in that anyone can start his own strip and
publish it on the Web. No longer is there any need for a
creator to meet the approval of a publisher or syndicate.

Currently there are hundreds of webcomics. Many of which
are low quality and sporadically updated. However, a number
have endured, and the best ones rival their newspaper and
magazine counterparts in terms of quality and quantity.
Megatokyo, Penny Arcade, PvP, Sluggy Freelance, and User
Friendly are considered to be among the best of the
webcomics.

The majority of traditional newspaper comic strips now have
some Internet presence. Syndicates often provide archives
of recent strips on their websites.

So the next time you sit down to the Sunday paper, take
particular note of the funnies section. Keep your favorite
comic strips near and dear to your heart. And remember the
trials and tribulations these strips have gone through to
continue to provide you with everlasting entertainment.



Public Speaking: Caricature, Cartoons, and Comic Strips

When certain prominent features of something or someone are highlighted and other features are diminished, that is called caricature. Studies have found that it is easier to identify a political leader from a caricature than from a real photograph.

You can use caricatures of yourself in your own promotional material or in your programs to make fun of yourself. You can do the same thing to make fun of your competitors or your competitor's products by amplifying whatever feature you want to emphasize.

Caricature artists are not too hard to locate. Many times you can find them by looking in the yellow pages under the categories of entertainment or party planning because they frequently perform at parties.

Cartoons and Comic Strips are the most universally accepted formats for humor across cultures. Find out why by viewing this website's article:

'Show 'em' When You Cross Cultures'.

There are three ways to use cartoons: first, you can tell the audience about a cartoon you saw; second, you can cut the cartoon out of its publication and show it; and third, you can make up a cartoon yourself.

I saw a cartoon once where a lady was holding a gun to her purse. The caption said, 'Give up the keys!' I use this example in my Business Lite Seminar when I want to illustrate the use of humor to help ease the tension in embarrassing situations. (I have also used this line many times when I am with a woman who is fumbling through her purse.) When I tell the audience I saw a cartoon, it helps them paint a mental picture of what I am describing with words.

Describing a cartoon is an easy method for using cartoons without having them physically available or needing audio/visual equipment to show them. Showing a cartoon is a more powerful way to convey its humorous message. This is especially true in international audiences where the visual aspect takes on a greater significance. In a very small crowd I might hold up the cartoon or I might pass it around. In larger audiences, the cartoon should be projected (don't forget to get permission from the copyright holder) so everyone can see it clearly. I like this method better anyway because I can control when it pops up on the screen. I want everyone to see the cartoon simultaneously so their laughter will be cumulative. Try to fill the frame of the visual with your cartoon or comic strip. You will create a greater impact.

The third way to use cartoons is to make them yourself. When I first started teaching this subject I could not take advantage of this method unless I hired an artist. Things are different now. There are a number of inexpensive computer software programs available which can be used, one of which is Corel Draw. This program has 25,000 pieces of electronic clip art, many of which are cartoons. I can make custom overhead cartoons for my speaking engagements. All I do is pick an applicable cartoon, add a custom caption for my audience.



Your Wedding Ceremony - Comic Strip Teaches About Going With the Flow at a Perfect Wedding

We're now in the last week or so of Lynn Johnston's current version of her comic "For Better or For Worse." Elizabeth is marrying Anthony. She and Anthony moved her wedding ceremony up because she realized how much she wanted her grandfather at the wedding. Her grandfather has had a heart attack and won't be at the wedding. Now, this is the one place I disagree with the decisions being made. The family has decided not to tell Liz that her grandpa is in the hospital before the ceremony. There are a few reasons I think this isn't a great idea:

* Brides and Grooms do pay attention to their community when they're standing up front. One of the things I liked the most about my wedding ceremony was looking at who was there. My parents were elderly and didn't walk with me. I walked in with my God-daughter Hannah. The first thing I did as we all walked in was go and kiss my parents hello. I know that I was an older bride, but for me, one of the most wonderful things about the day was the huge community gathered to celebrate our marriage. It was magical. I would have noticed if my immediate family wasn't there. And if it were a favorite grandpa, I'd have worried. And that would have overset me more than being told. And if I'm happier than I've ever been before in my life, doesn't it stand to reason I'm stronger?
* Brides and grooms are people as well as brides and grooms. Hopefully, they're adults as well. Being married is a wonderful thing and the day is really special. But it isn't so special that life doesn't continue to happen. I was at a wedding where the bride wanted her grandfather to make his fabulous barbecue ribs for the rehearsal dinner. He was elderly, it was too much for him. So, rather than say anything, two cousins went to work and made the barbecue happen. The bride who'd been a little over-indulged and who was a little over-tired, went crazy because it wasn't his sauce. "It's my wedding, can't I at least have things the way I want them?" Ummm. No. Life isn't just about your wedding. In this case, the thought should have been to honor your grandfather's gifts and to be incredibly grateful that your cousins had stepped up. And, up to that point, everyone else had been enjoying the barbecue, but now we all knew it wasn't "perfect."
* When something unexpected happens, particularly something that cuts at the heart of the couple, this is an amazing opportunity to make your ceremony so real and so personal. If I'd been the celebrant and Liz my bride, I'd have put an extra paragraph in to say how central her grandpa had been in their decision about when to marry. I'd have said a prayer for his health. I'd have dedicated the ceremony to him and his two very happy marriages and asked the Liz and Anthony might follow his lead and live happily and healthily in marriage. It's the unexpected moments that can make a wedding ceremony, always a wonderful thing, completely transcendent.
* Liz and Anthony may want to be able to plan for enough energy to sweep into the hospital after the reception with favors for her grandparents and a piece of cake for Iris. He'd be well enough and happy enough for a quick glimpse of his beloved little girl.

Lynn doesn't marry people for a living, so we have to forgive her for not getting all the details right. Not all that many people think about the wedding ceremony as a living, growing entity. But she certainly got the grandfather's heart attack right. Life does continue to happen, even as you plan and live into your spectacular day and your amazing marriage. So embrace it. Your marriage will be better for it and so will your wedding ceremony.