Maximizing Potential

By Mike Pellerito

Maximizing potential.

Usually we start out with a question, but this time a statement seemed more appropriate. Don't worry the questions will be coming. It's one of those silly business phrases that people utter to give their ideas a little punch. It did spark a thought, which lead to two questions (see told you): "What can we do better?" and "How can we do it better?"

Simple enough and not at the same time. This is the resolution this year, to be better, to maximize potential. Over the course of the last few years slowly we have been improving ways to promote our All Ages books at Archie, industry wide. Archie allowing one of its editors to go out and promote not just their own books in this weekly column, but also that of competitors was a huge step. This year alone Archie has created a PTO Fund raiser to help schools, expanded it Graphic Novel program, revamped Katy Keene (on sale this week in Archie & friends # 106), and most recently given Betty & Veronica a new look in Betty & Veronica Double Digest #151. It's funny talking to Steven Butler, the penciller on the project, because he never thought this new look would cause so much commotion. Steven is not only one the most talented and easy to work with people you'll find, but also one of the nicest. Working with him for years off and on Sonic, Sonic X and a handful of other projects, it was plain to see he would be the right guy for the job. These new look B & V stories will be longer, and slightly more mature. Still nothing any parent would object to but more emotional and involved than a typical B& V story. Something along the lines of the current feel of what Tania Del Rio is doing with Sabrina The Teenage Witch. The goal is to make an Archie comic for every audience. To maximize our potential.

Hopefully this column has been moving forward and doing what it does better. Lots of teachers and parents have been emailing with questions and suggestions. Other industry pros and readers alike are always willing to recommend some great titles that fit this genre, and thankful for the attention. Thanks to all of you who have been so open with your ideas. It has been a blast talking with you all.

So expect more reviews, hidden treasures, some interviews, more ratings and ravings, and of course more Archie inside info in 2007. See you next Tuesday.

Happy New Year and send your thoughts, would love to hear them: MikeP@SilverBulletComicbooks.com

Check out some new All Ages reads on sale this week:

OCT063138 ARCHIE & FRIENDS #106 $2.25
OCT063142 BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #148 $3.69
NOV060252 JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #29 $2.25
NOV060256 LOONEY TUNES #146 $2.25
NOV062303 MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN #23 $2.99
OCT060023 PERHAPANAUTS SECOND CHANCES #3 (OF 4) $2.99