Hot Topic, Nerdist Industries and Her Universe Get Irrational for Pi Day with Contest and New Nerdist Pi Shirt

Instagram Contest will send one winner and a guest to San Diego Comic-Con 

Chris Hardwick and Chloe Dykstra want you to #beirrational for Pi Day

LOS ANGELES, CA- March 11th, 2014 - Pi day is coming and to help fans celebrate this ultimate nerd holiday, Hot Topic, Nerdist Industries and Her Universe have joined forces on a "Be Irrational for Pi Day" contest that will send one special fan plus a guest to San Diego Comic-Con in July. The contest is a part of a new merchandise agreement between Nerdist and Her Universe. 

Pi Day is an annual celebration commemorating the mathematical irrational number π observed on March 14th. "I adore Pi," said Chris Hardwick, Nerdist Founder and CEO. "I memorized 150 digits of Pi. I co-wrote a song about Pi. It is a human imperative to give Pi the celebration it deserves! Thanks to Her Universe and Hot Topic for helping me realize this irrational dream." 

The "Be Irrational for Pi Day" contest runs March 14th through March 31st and requires fans to create a clever Instagram video featuring their favorite ways to celebrate Pi Day using the hashtag #BeIrrational. An official video with ways to enter, contest rules and other information can be found at www.hottopic.com/PiDay on 3/14/14. The contest is open to anyone living in the United States and who is 18 years or older. The winning video will be chosen for it's creativity by Nerdist's Chris Hardwick with support from Hot Topic and Her Universe, and the winner plus a guest will win a trip to San Diego Comic-Con which includes two 4-day badges, flight, hotel and two tickets to the Nerdist Podcast Live. 

"It's been really exciting to design this shirt with Chris Hardwick," said Her Universe Founder Ashley Eckstein. "There is no better way to begin our merchandise partnership than with a Pi shirt for Pi day! Plus a chance to win a trip to the biggest and best comic convention, San Diego Comic-Con. It’s perfectly irrational." 

The special Nerdist Pi shirt is available for men and women exclusively at Hot Topic stores across the country and online at hottopic.com. The shirt features the Nerdist logo, Pi symbol and the words "Be Irrational" - the perfect equation for fans of Pi. "We love all things nerdy, and it doesn't get much better than a celebration of Pi Day," said Cindy Levitt, vice president and general merchandise manager at Hot Topic. "We're especially thrilled to be working so closely with Nerdist and Her Universe. These guys get it and we love it." 

About Hot Topic 

Hot Topic is a mall-and web-based specialty retailer beloved by rebellious and expressive teens for 25 years. Hot Topic offers music and pop culture junkies band-related apparel and accessories, licensed merchandise, and fashion apparel and accessories. Hot Topic operates 635 stores in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico and an online store athottopic.com. Find Hot Topic on Twitter (twitter.com/hottopic), Facebook(facebook.com/hottopic), YouTube (youtube.com/hottopic) and Instagram(instagram.com/hottopic). 

About Nerdist Industries 

Nerdist Industries is a multi-platform creator of genre and popular culture content. Its online presence includes a website at Nerdist.com; a premium YouTube channel(youtube.com/nerdist) featuring Nerdist News hosted by Jessica Chobot; 2.1 millionTwitter followers; a Podcast Network including the flagship Nerdist Podcast; The Nerdist School comedy training program; and the Nerdist Alliance, a community of curated partnerships with some of YouTube's most talented and passionate creators. Nerdist also produces content for television including All Star Celebrity Bowling for AMC and In the Name of Science for National Geographic Channel. Further, Nerdist hosts live events around the country such as The Nerdist Podcast Live! and Course of the Force, an annual lightsaber relay in partnership with Lucasfilm LTD and Octagon which leads up to San Diego Comic-Con International. 

About Her Universe 

Her Universe was launched in 2010 by actress and entrepreneur Ashley Eckstein and The Araca Group, a leading theatrical production and brand management company. Ashley and Araca created Her Universe to address the expanding market of female sci-fi and fantasy fans. They entered their first agreement with Lucas Licensing to develop and produce a line of female-centered Star Wars apparel and accessories. The success of that line was followed up with a collection for BBC Worldwide for Doctor Who, CBS Consumer Products for Star Trek and AMC for The Walking Dead. You can learn more about Her Universe and purchase the current line of fangirl apparel and accessories by going towww.heruniverse.com and by following Eckstein & Her Universe on Facebook(facebook.com/HerUniverse) and Twitter (twitter.com/HerUniverse)

Photo credit: - Kelsey Edwards Photography- http://www.kelseyedwardsphoto.com/ 

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STAN LEE’S COMIKAZE EXPO PRESENTED BY POW! ENTERTAINMENT RETURNS TO LOS ANGELES THIS NOVEMBER 1 – 3

LA’s Ultimate Pop Culture Experience to Host Celebrities, Exclusives, Reunions, Gaming, Shopping and More

Santa Monica, CA – October 30, 2013 – Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo presented by POW! Entertainment, and co-owned by the largest producer of trade shows and events in the nation, Advanstar Communications, Inc., returns to Los Angeles this weekend. Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo kicks off this November 1-3, 2013 at the Los Angeles Convention Center and promises an incredible experience for fans of comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy and anime. This year’s event will feature an amazing line-up of attractions from vendors and exhibitors, interactive contests, celebrity autograph signings, screenings, renowned panel sessions and gaming tournaments.

"I’m beyond excited for this year’s Comikaze Expo," stated Stan Lee, Chairman and Founder of POW! Entertainment. "Comikaze continues to grow bigger and better every year and the offerings this year are going to be immensely enjoyable for all of our attendees. It’s great to have such a fun-filled expo that attracts the Hollywood crowd just as much as the geek, comic and gaming crowd and it’s all right here in our backyard – Los Angeles!"

This year fans can experience NERD Black Friday and also have access to geeky shopping, see all the new toys, games and movies as well as meet all of their favorite actors and celebrities. Fans can shop from retailers like Hot Topic, Toynamii, Mattel, Tokidoki as well as from new emerging artists and creators. These retailers have created exclusive items available only at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo.

"My partners and I are committed to creating a unique, one-of-a-kind fan experience that will be enjoyed by all. I am proud to bring Stan Lee’s Comikaze back to your great city. Comikaze is a show for fans by fans....it embodies everything that is LA," said Regina Carpinelli, founder and CEO, Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo. "Part of fulfilling that goal is to partner with industry giants like Diamond Comics, Hot Topic, SyFy Channel and many others! Together we can create amazing and unique fan experiences to make Comikaze one of the world’s largest and most diverse pop culture conventions."

Additionally, Stan Lee will be on hand to meet his fans, and share with them the largest collection of Marvel movie props and memorabilia ever assembled in one place. On site will also be amazing movie props that Stan Winston Legacy Studios created for hits like Iron Man, Captain America and Thor. Additionally, Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment will play a big role with several panels at Comikaze, including a special Slam 7 announcement, an unveiling from Mattel, and an introduction of a new app game, along with others. As always, Stan Lee may drop in on other panels as a special guest.

"Comikaze is part of the fan community. Our experience in events, licensing and entertainment will help them exponentially expand their reach and concept globally. We couldn’t be more excited to be part of the Comikaze team!" said Chris DeMoulin, Executive Vice President of Customer Development and President of Licensing for Advanstar.

Celebrities making an appearance at Comikaze include Stan Lee, Elvira, Bruce Campbell, Weird Al, LeVar Burton, Tara Strong, John Romita Jr, Marc Silvestri he entire cast of AMC’s Comic Book Men, and many more. Panel discussions run the gamut, with topics regarding new movie and television show premiers to in-depth comic discussions and workshops on how to become a voice actor to break into the comics industry. The full listing of panels is available at http://www.comikazeexpo.com.

"POW! Entertainment will have a significant presence at this year’s Comikaze Expo," stated Gill Champion, President and CEO of POW! Entertainment. "We are excited to host our own pop culture expo in our backyard to share with the fans and Hollywood crowd alike, and showcase Los Angeles as the center of pop culture."

Take a look behind the scenes at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo by watching the SyFy Network’s new hit show "Fangasm," which features seven super-nerd fan boys and fan girls who move into the same house in LA, and work as interns for Stan Lee’s Comikaze.  New episodes of "Fangasm" air every Tuesday night at 10pm on SyFy.

Buy tickets at Comikazeexpo.com or at the door!
 
The Expo Basics:

WHEN:

Friday, November 1, from 1p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, November 2, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday, November 3, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

COST:

$25 per day, or $60 for 3-day pass
FREE for children under 12
 
WHERE:

Los Angeles Convention Center
1201 South Figueroa Street, South Hall
Los Angeles, CA 90015


For additional info: http://www.comikazeexpo.com, Twitter @StanLeeComikaze, Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/comikazeexpo

###


About Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo
Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo, held November 1-3 , 2013 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, is the largest multimedia pop culture convention in Los Angeles. Partnering with comic legend Stan Lee and Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, Comikaze brings together the best in comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, anime and all other pop culture programming.

About Advanstar Communications, Inc.
Advanstar Communications Inc., the largest producers of trade shows and events in the U.S., is a leading worldwide media company providing integrated marketing solutions for the Fashion, Licensing, Life Sciences and Powersports Industries. Advanstar serves business professionals and consumers in these industries with its portfolio of 147 events, 68 publications and directories, 267 electronic products and Web sites, as well as educational and direct marketing products and services. Market leading brands and a commitment to delivering innovative, quality products and services enables Advanstar to "Connect Our Customers with Theirs."

About POW! Entertainment, Inc.
POW! Entertainment, Inc. (OTCQB: POWN), a multi-media entertainment company, was founded by noted comic book writer Stan Lee, together with award-winning producer Gill Champion and the late intellectual property specialist Arthur Lieberman. POW!’s principals have extensive backgrounds in the creation and production of original intellectual properties, including some of the most successful entertainment franchises of all time. POW! is utilizing Stan Lee’s historical background by perpetuating his legacy while creating and developing all new live-action films, television, digital games, merchandising, licensing and related ancillary markets, all of which contribute to global expansion. POW! partners with third parties and strategic alliances, including studios and networks, in the production and distribution of new POW! character franchises.

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LA’s Ultimate Pop Culture Experience to Host Celebrities, Exclusives, Reunions, Gaming, Shopping and More

Santa Monica, CA – October 22, 2013 – Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo presented by POW! Entertainment, and co-owned by the largest producer of trade shows and events in the nation, Advanstar Communications, Inc., returns to Los Angeles next month. Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo kicks off this November 1-3, 2013 at the Los Angeles Convention Center and promises an incredible experience for fans of comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy and anime. This year’s event will feature an amazing line-up of attractions from vendors and exhibitors, interactive contests, celebrity autograph signings, screenings, renowned panel sessions and gaming tournaments.

“I’m beyond excited for this year’s Comikaze Expo,” stated Stan Lee, Chairman and Founder of POW! Entertainment. “Comikaze continues to grow bigger and better every year and the offerings this year are going to be immensely enjoyable for all of our attendees. It’s great to have such a fun-filled expo that attracts the Hollywood crowd just as much as the geek, comic and gaming crowd and it’s all right here in our backyard – Los Angeles!”

This year fans can experience NERD Black Friday and also have access to geeky shopping, see all the new toys, games and movies as well as meet all of their favorite actors and celebrities. Fans can shop from retailers like Hot Topic, Toynamii, Mattel, Tokidoki as well as from new emerging artists and creators.  These retailers have created exclusive items available only at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo.

"My partners and I are committed to creating a unique, one-of-a-kind fan experience that will be enjoyed by all. I am proud to bring Stan Lee’s Comikaze back to your great city. Comikaze is a show for fans by fans…it embodies everything that is LA,” said Regina Carpinelli, founder and CEO, Stan Lee's Comikaze Expo. “Part of fulfilling that goal is to partner with industry giants like Diamond Comics, Hot Topic, SyFy Channel and many others! Together we can create amazing and unique fan experiences to make Comikaze one of the world’s largest and most diverse pop culture conventions.”

Additionally, Stan Lee will be on hand to meet his fans, and share with them the largest collection of Marvel movie props and memorabilia ever assembled in one place. On site will also be amazing movie props that Stan Winston Legacy Studios created for hits like Iron Man, Captain America and Thor. Additionally, Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment will play a big role with several panels at Comikaze, including a special Slam 7 announcement, an unveiling from Mattel, and an introduction of a new app game, along with others. As always, Stan Lee may drop in on other panels as a special guest.

“Comikaze is part of the fan community. Our experience in events, licensing and entertainment will help them exponentially expand their reach and concept globally. We couldn’t be more excited to be part of the Comikaze team!” said Chris DeMoulin, Executive Vice President of Customer Development and President of Licensing for Advanstar.

Celebrities making an appearance at Comikaze include Stan Lee, Elvira, Bruce Campbell, Weird Al, LeVar Burton, Tara Strong, John Romita Jr, Marc Silvestri he entire cast of AMC’s Comic Book Men, and many more. Panel discussions run the gamut, with topics regarding new movie and television show premiers to in-depth comic discussions and workshops on how to become a voice actor to break into the comics industry. The full listing of panels will be available soon at www.comikazeexpo.com.

“POW! Entertainment will have a significant presence at this year’s Comikaze Expo,” stated Gill Champion, President and CEO of POW! Entertainment. “We are excited to host our own pop culture expo in our backyard to share with the fans and Hollywood crowd alike, and showcase Los Angeles as the center of pop culture.”

Take a look behind the scenes at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo by watching the SyFy Network’s new hit show “Fangasm,” which features seven super-nerd fan boys and fan girls who move into the same house in LA, and work as interns for Stan Lee’s Comikaze.  New episodes of “Fangasm” air every Tuesday night at 10pm on SyFy.

Buy tickets at Comikazeexpo.com or at the door!

The Expo Basics:

WHEN:    Friday, November 1, from 1p.m. to 8 p.m.

        Saturday, November 2, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

        Sunday, November 3, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

COST:        $25 per day, or $60 for 3-day pass

 FREE for children under 12

WHERE:    Los Angeles Convention Center

            1201 South Figueroa Street, South Hall

Los Angeles, CA 90015

For additional info: www.comikazeexpo.com, Twitter @StanLeeComikaze, Facebook- www.facebook.com/comikazeexpo

###

About Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo

Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo, held November 1-3 , 2013 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, is the largest multimedia pop culture convention in Los Angeles. Partnering with comic legend Stan Lee and Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, Comikaze brings together the best in comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, fantasy, anime and all other pop culture programming.

About Advanstar Communications, Inc.

Advanstar Communications Inc., the largest producers of trade shows and events in the U.S., is a leading worldwide media company providing integrated marketing solutions for the Fashion, Licensing, Life Sciences and Powersports Industries. Advanstar serves business professionals and consumers in these industries with its portfolio of 147 events, 68 publications and directories, 267 electronic products and Web sites, as well as educational and direct marketing products and services. Market leading brands and a commitment to delivering innovative, quality products and services enables Advanstar to "Connect Our Customers with Theirs."

About POW! Entertainment, Inc.

POW! Entertainment, Inc. (OTCQB: POWN), a multi-media entertainment company, was founded by noted comic book writer Stan Lee, together with award-winning producer Gill Champion and the late intellectual property specialist Arthur Lieberman. POW!’s principals have extensive backgrounds in the creation and production of original intellectual properties, including some of the most successful entertainment franchises of all time. POW! is utilizing Stan Lee’s historical background by perpetuating his legacy while creating and developing all new live-action films, television, digital games, merchandising, licensing and related ancillary markets, all of which contribute to global expansion. POW! partners with third parties and strategic alliances, including studios and networks, in the production and distribution of new POW! character franchises.

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When I heard about this event I was pretty excited because not only would I get a a chance to attend a pre-screening of this action packed science fiction movie with some pretty hot actors, but I would also get the chance to meet them in person and get their autographs! Wow what a deal right? Well on February 12, 2011 I would actually meet Alex Pettyfer an English actor known for his work as Alex Rider: Operation Stormbreaker (2006), Tormented (2009), and Beastly (2011), Dianna Agron, who also stars on the hit television series "Glee" on Fox, which by the way is one of my favorite shows, and Teresa Palmer known for her works in "2:37" (2006), "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" (2010), and "Take Me Home Tonight" (2011).

First they would be making an appearance at the Hollywood & Highland Hot Topic located at 6801 Hollywood Blvd, CA. 90028 at 2pm. Hot Topic +1 members could purchase any I Am Number Four T-shirt at this location and receive a wristband that guarantees the opportunity to meet these three beautiful stars and also have access to the special screening immediately after the signing event. Only one catch though, there would be no photos taken with or of Alex, Dianna & Teresa during the meet and greet session. We did come away with a nice sized poster with their autographs, which by the way is among the other signed posters I have on my wall of fame from last years Comic-Con 2010. Dianna was nice enough to actually sign the "Glee" poster I acquired that year so I am definitely glad I had brought it along since she was not among the cast members to not show up. The publicist for "I Am Number Four" wasn't too happy about it but Dianna didn't seem to mind. She was actually the only one who extended her hand out as she greeted me, Teresa and Alex not so much of a greeter. In fact Alex didn't even say a word, just smiled and nodded as I said "I can't wait to see you in 'Beastly' next month as well." All in all it was fun meeting and talking to them in person.

Now for the pre-screening of the movie. It would be my very first time watching a movie at the Grauman Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, because as you know this is where all the red carpet premiers take place. As an avid movie goer, I was so ecstatic! So after waiting a few hours in line, in walks Alex & Dianna with a couple of Hot Topic backpacks! Alex wore a Star Wars Storm Trooper backpack & Dianna wore an oh so cute Yoda backpack. Now how awesome is that! I couldn't tell if Teresa had one too, but nonetheless I am such a huge Star Wars fan myself that when i saw them wearing them i screamed a little inside. I only wish that i could have taken my own pictures and recorded the whole thing for everyone to see. I did mange to get a few photos from Hot Topic though as you can see. Dianna, Alex and Teresa said a few words about the movie and Teresa stressed how sweet the soundtrack to the movie was and to be sure to get it. Nice plug for the artists i must say.

The movie was as good as I thought it would be, the storyline riveting, the acting genuine, the love story very believable, well there have been rumors that Alex & Dianna had been dating, and the special effects pretty damn awesome. There was also a hint of a sequel towards the end.

So yes I would definitely recommend watching this movie and of course anything these fabulous three are working on in the future.

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