May 2008 CAG AWARDS

AND THE WINNERS ARE:
The leadership team of the Comicbook Artists Guild is honored to announce the winners of the 1st Annual CAG Awards. In the categories of Best Writer and Best New Talent, Everett Soares was recognized for his work on his comic book series Sky Pirates of Valendor. Soares was presented with his first award by his wife, Susan, and his second by the Connecticut CAG Coordinator and President of Free Lunch Comics (publisher of Sky Pirates), Matt C. Ryan.

The next category awarded was for Best Artist. Chris Torres, artist for Agent Unknown, was recognized for his outstanding contributions in illustration and his profound contribution to the books that CAG has published. Creative Director and Vice President of the New York Metro Region Mark Mazz presented Torres with his award.

The CAG MVP distinction was bestowed upon Guild Membership Coordinator, Susan Soares for her work on building the membership database and making the process for recruitment a smoother one. Soares received her award from Guild President Keith Murphey.

The final award of the evening was awarded for Special Award for Production Excellence, and was presented by CAG member and Free Lunch Comics Publisher, Steve Kanaras. Matt C. Ryan proudly accepted this recognition for his work in such titles as Bigger, Only in Whispers and Pork N’ Beans. Sharing the distinction with Ryan was Philip Clark from the LA Chapter of CAG. Clark is the creator of Quantum: Rock of Ages and was recognized for this work and his contribution to the CAG Anthology Publications.

The 1st Annual Comicbook Artists Guild Awards were announced at the Indy After-Party at the Twin’s Pub in Manhattan. The leadership team of the nationwide networking organization celebrated the triumphs and talents of many of its members. Earlier in the year, nominations were cast from its membership and voting took place to decide the winners of 5 distinguished categories. The Comicbook Artists Guild also inducted a number of honorary members into its ranks, including Gary Cohn, Peter Palmiotti, Ray Feliz, Lauren Perry, Danny Fingeroth, Kirk Abrigo, Christian Beranek, Jesse Hansen, Ryan Markle, and John Francis Moore. These distinguished professionals were nominated and inducted by the leaders of CAG for their contributions to the industry and their dedication to the ideals of the Comicbook Artists Guild.