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Marvel Man

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Blog Entries posted by Marvel Man

  1. Marvel Man
    Welcome back ladies and gentlemen! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Now, today I take on a formidable threat to comics, which, up until recently, I had avoided. What could this strange thing be? What could cause such a divide in opinions? The answer's simple. Digital Comics! So step on board Marvel's train of challenges and puzzles. Look at the picture, which is half way done. Look at the book, and behold the illustrations! Etc. 
    __________________________________________________
    Today's Topic: Digital Comics
     
    Now, as we all know, the sweet feeling that one gets when they're reading a really good comic is only matched by a couple hundred other experiences (Like the ladies!) Still, remember when you're deep into the story, and you actually want to turn the page and see what happens. That's a nice feeling, right? Getting to hold that comic in your hands? Well, what if you weren't at your comic book shop, sitting in a corner, trying to read the comic book without paying? What if you were at home, in your Stan Lee PJs, as I am now, reading the book through the internet.
     
    Yes, madness I know. However, with all the techonogical revolution going on, it was natural that it would happen. 
     
    Of course, due to the amount of time I've spent online, chatting with FPLers, I have become very nostalgic. Comic books, although expensive, are pretty cool. After all, who wouldn't want to pay 4$ to read 22 pages of sometimes ad free stories featuring fictional characters. It's just like reading a book.
     
    Except, you have to buy lots of comics to get the whole story, since, y'know, each comic only moves the plot a couple inches. 
     
    So yeah, how the comic book industry could be struggling is beyond me. And how anyone could turn their back to the printed comic book, the backbone of nerdery, is mind boggling! It was something I would never do. I would never turn to digital comics. 
     
    At least, not unless they offered me great savings. My semi-worship of comics is only bested by my love of money. And this opportunity arose this Cyber Monday, the Monday after Black Friday. It's very similar, except that it all takes place online, where the chances of being trampled are a lot lower. 
     
    https://walyou.com/img/black-friday-deals-funny-jokes-9.jpg
     
    When my wallet cried out to me, I listened. A form later, and Marvel Digital Comics was open to me. 
     
    https://marvel.com/digitalcomics/
     
    So, after a week what is my opinion of Digital Comics?
     
    Pros:
     
    1. Selection:
    Oh man, the selection! Over 8,000 comics. All of them, free (after paying 5$ a month for a year). There's old school comics from the sixties, and brand new ones, just from last year. Not only that, but every week, twenty something comics get added. How awesome is that? At this rate, I can't imagine ever needing to go out and buy more comics. 
     
    2. Exclusives:
    So, Marvel, being the comic genius that it is, thought of a brand new marketing campaign. Selling really old comics online was a good idea, but a better one was to make brand new comics, exclusively for Online viewing! Bravo! 
     
    Now, of course, these online books don't carry as much weight, or feature that important heroes, but they do have positives. They give writers more freedom. 
     
    https://freedomthirst.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/freedom.jpg
     
    Now, if my grammar didn't tip you off, I'm not a comic book writer. However, from what I've seen, it must be terrible to be a mainstream writer. Nowadays, you're not that well paid, you have strict deadlines, almost every marketable storyline has been used, and there's such a small space to be creative. Heck, if I was an Iron Man writer, and I wanted Iron Man to build a suit of armor made of bark and other green material because he had become aware of global warming, I couldn't do it. Why? Cause it doesn't sell comics. 
     
    No. Comics are sold when a super famous writer writes the story, when it has pictures of hot women inside, and every once in a while, because it has a good interesting story. 
     
    Having writers write comics online totally takes that pressure off them. Look at the last exclusive I read. "Galacta - Daughter of Galactus".
     
    https://th01.deviantart.net/fs71/PRE/i/2010/049/b/9/GALACTA__Daughter_of_Galactus_by_AdamWarren.jpg
     
    For the record, it was the idea that interested me in the book... The hot protagonist merely sealed the deal. 
     
    Anyways, a story like that has a small chance of getting published. There's too much risk. However, with this digital comic shop open, there's a lot more space for creativity...
     
    Cost:
    60$ a year. For over 8,000 comics. I can't even get most of these where I live. This thing is a sweet deal. 
     
    Cons:
     
    1. Eye Stress:
    Guys, girl (hopefully there's one out there), as cool as I seem, I do have some obvious nerdy giveaways.
     
    Glasses. 
     
    Unlike my love of comics, which only my closest friends and current girlfriend know about, I can't hide the fact that I wear glasses. Naturally, I prefer the old school comics, because they don't strain my eyes. 
     
    Now, while the time spent of the Internet has probably built up a defense towards reading stuff on a computer, it's still a strain. I wouldn't recommend it to older people, or those who can't handle reading stuff online (Note: The comics do have nifty zoom tools that make even the smallest writing huge).
     
    2. Delay
    I can't really complain about this one. 
     
    But I will anyways. 
     
    You see, all the comics are at least six months old. This is done to prevent actual comic book shops from competing with the digital comic book shop (since digital comics would stomp them all day long... And then they'd stomp them in night as well). This makes sense, and is probably a smart thing to do business wise, but still bothersome. I can't read up to date stuff? I want to read the stuff that people are talking about! Who even remembers Secret Invasion?
     
    Eh... On the plus side, old school comics are there in droves. 
     
    3. Mobility:
     
    Say you're on a long car trip, and you want to have something cool and interesting to read. You go for "Earth: The Book" only to see your cousin borrowed it. Naturally, you turn to the next best thing. A Marvel comic book. 
     
    Ooh...
     
    Tough break reading digital comics on the go. 
     
    Unless you're paying 3G, or plan on stopping at Starbucks for Wi-Fi, you can't read the comics. You can't even download/save them and read them later. 
     
    Well, that's cool. I mean, you have your iPhone right? You can still read those things. Right?
     
    Nope. 
     
    You see, to read comics on your iPhone, there's a whole other thing you have to use (An App). The bad thing here is that there is no Digital Comics App on the App store. Instead, you have to get a regular Comic app or a Marvel Comics app. 
     
    Well, that doesn't matter right? I mean, you can read the comics on your iPhone. After all, you did pay to read them on your computer. Why can't you online?
     
    Oh wait, you can't. If you want to read Marvel comics on your iPhone, you have to buy every single comic for 1-2$.
     
    Yeah. That kind of sucks if you planned on reading comics... Outside of your home. 
     
    Overall:
    So, what did I think at the end? Is this thing the future? Or just a cheap ploy?
     
    Honestly, if it's done right, this could be the future. After all, its cheaper to make the comics this way, no need for printing/shipping. Marvel can reach markets that it couldn't before. The reading program works great. The selection is wonderful, and an easy way to kill tons of time. Sure, there's huge gaps in between some comics, none of them are up to date, and you can't really download them to read offline, but it's pretty good. 
     
    Score: 3 out of 5 Stan Lees
    https://www.collider.com/wp-content/uploads/stan_lee.jpghttp://www.collider.com/wp-content/uploads/stan_lee.jpghttp://www.collider.com/wp-content/uploads/stan_lee.jpg 
     
    I recommend it to those who don't want to waste tons of cash keeping up with all the comic events. It has a pretty good selection, so there's definitely something for everyone.
     
    Note: For those on the fence, there are comics that you can read on the website for free. Check it out. 
     
    That's all for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Excelsior!
     
    EXCLUSIVE:
     
    Soon... Very soon...
     
    A new Admin interview is coming! 
     
    https://filmdirectors.co/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/nosferatu-shadow.jpg
  2. Marvel Man
    Welcome back. This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Today I have a special surprise. An interview with an EF ADMIN! ... I mean, EF MODERATOR!
     
    Click on the blog for this once in a lifetime opportunity as this Mod tells all. 
     
    Also, Marvel's Corner has reached four thousand views. I congratulate all of you, and promise to continue providing the Electric Ferret with a blog (because my fellow members are lazy/have actual lives to live). But enough about them, look no further for this special interview with a valuable EF member & Moderator. 
    --------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Moderator Interview
     
    Due to unprecedented circumstances (such as me being lazy & occupied with watching as many NCIS episodes as I can) this interview is quite old. So old in fact, that our guest was an Admin at the time. Since then, things have changed. However, just remember that the following interview took place on November 22, 2009.
     
    But by now you must be asking, "Marvel Man, just tell me who the Moderator is. It's Tarvius isn't it. Do we even have another Moderator?"
     
    And to this I can only say, "Yes. A guy named General M. Bison also moderates the site. However, with all his world conquering plans/schemes, he is constantly forced to put the EF aside. However, you still don't know who our secret guest is..."
     
    So, without any more background, I will now reveal our guest... He goes by many names, but you know him as...
     
    TARVIUS!
     
    http://www.electricferret.com/forum/index.php?showuser=5
     
    Yes, after hiring a squad of trained Colombian drug-warriors from our friends down south, Marvel's Corner was able to get in touch with Tarvius. We asked many things, and after a few days of torture (which was mostly having him tied and forced to listen to the Twilight Series Audiobook collection) Tarvius finally cracked (everyone does... Hehe...)
     
    So, what did he say? Read ahead, True Believers, and prepare to have your mind blown...
    ----------------------------------------------
     
    About Tarvius:
     
    Q. Have you ever been in a fight?
     
    A: -Skip
     
    MM: I, of course, assume that by this, Tarvius is trying to draw away from his bloody past. There used to be a lot of EF Moderators, but they've all been turning up missing these last few months. Coincidence?! I think not...
     
    Q. What is your favorite music group?
     
    A: -Metallica
     
    MM: *Nods*
     
    Q. What's the worst flame war you've gotten into?
     
    A: -Not Sure. Most debates that I remember being in have been pretty mild.
     
    MM: Keywords: "That I Remember"....
     
    Q. Do you have any role models?
     
    A: -I have a few.
     
    MM: It was at this point in the interview where we were forced to torture Tarvius some more (We read out loud from fanfiction.net. It was brutal)
     
    Q. Is there anything you will debate over on the Internet?
     
    A: -Yes?
     
    MM: Don't worry dear reader, we did a few vague questions before hitting the tough questions. Speaking of...
     
    Q. Why did you pick your username?
     
    http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/gawker/2009/06/stephen-colbert.jpg
     
    A: -Tarvius is the name of the main character in my book Gondra. Not really sure why I thought of that name for my book. I guess I just wanted something Fantasy sounding.
     
    MM: I imagine this is your book cover:
     
    http://www.henkbloemberg.eu/fantasy/Fantasy Art - Unicorn vs dragon (Boris Vallejo).jpg
     
    Note: A few days later, I went back to Tarv and asked a few follow up questions. Here's a bit from that:
     
     
    MM: And edit I did. Let's move on. 
     
    Q. Do you speak any other languague?
     
    A: -I don't speak any languages. I just pretend to be able to speak English.
     
    Q. How did you find the CBUB?
     
    A: - I'm not exactly sure. All I know is that I was searching Google for who knows what
     
    MM Edit: Oh, we can imagine *wink* Stock tips, right?
     
    and there was a link to one of the old write-ups Serge and the other Admins use to do. Surprisingly enough I can't remember what the match was. Come to think of it I think I may have had a run in with the FPL before I hit the CBUB. Not sure about that though
     
    MM: Huh. Has anyone ever found the FPL before the CBUB? I mean, I'm pretty sure there are guys on the CBUB that don't know what the FPL is. 
     
    Q. What was/is your favorite school subject?
     
    A: -History.
     
    MM: As you can tell, I'm a vicious interviewer. I get all the juicy details. Tarv was on the ropes after that last question. 
     
    Q. Is there anything you regret?
     
    A: - Absolutely, both on this site, and in life outside of the site.
     
    MM: Life outside the site? Clearly he's talking about the ladies. Darn it Tarv, how many shattered hearts are at your feet?!
     
    About being a Moderator:
     
    Q. Is Tarvius your real name?
     
    A: -Secret
     
    MM: I'll take that as a yes.
     
    Q. What have you done to help the EF?
     
    A: -Not enough
     
    MM: Notice that this is an old interview. A year later I'm sure Tarv's answer is a different one. 
     
    Q. Have you ever moderated a site before?
     
    A: -Yes. I've been an Administrator/Moderator for Haven/Writers Kingdom for about two years.
     
    MM: Excellent plug. Link to the Writers Kingdom Website:
     
    http://s1.zetaboards.com/Writers_Kingdom/index/
     
    Q. What are the daily challenges of moderating the EF?
     
    A: - Probably dealing with some of the more immature members of the site, who insist on arguing with every point I make when in the long run I'm just trying to help the site.
     
    MM: I've actually seen some of these arguments. They usually go like this:
     
     
    Q. If EFers met you in real life, would they be surprised?
     
    A: -I can't really say. I guess it has more to do with how often I've conversed with them. Then again I haven't exactly been an open book, so yes I'd have to say everyone would be surprised at least to some degree.
     
    MM: Hmm... Maybe Tarvius is famous? Or a woman? ... Or BOTH?!
     
    http://static.thehollywoodgossip.com/images/gallery/olivia-wilde-photograph.jpg
     
    Ah, Olivia Wilde...
     
    Q. Which do you like the most, the CBUB or the FPL?
     
    A: -The FPL hands down.
     
    MM: I would be lying if I said I didn't see that one coming. Once you go into the FPL, you never come out... Also, CBUB #1.
     
    Q. What is your favorite Official CBUB Match?
     
    A: -Hmmmmmm.... I'll have to think about that one.
     
    MM: At this point, Tarvius got real quiet for several hours. Eventually we just moved on to the next question. 
     
    Q. Is the EF better now that we've undergone the makeover?
     
    A: -I'm a little confused with this question. I definitely like the layout better if that's what you mean. However, if you're talking about how people are acting then I do feel like the sites been overrun with irrational idiots, but I don't think that has anything to do with us moving?
     
    MM: I guess the fact that it's the Internet doesn't help much. But hey, look on the bright side, the layout's the bomb. Every character gets a mini wikipedia article on their fights. Now we just have to get people to stop clicking the hide option and actually read them.
     
    Q. Do you feel like Moderators aren't as respected as they should be?
     
    A: -At times I suppose. Then again we don't really do that much to get respect. If there's anyone who deserves respect its, Serge and Mr. Graves who've spent hundreds of hours of their own time coding the site.
     
    MM: Hundreds of hours. Do you guys hear that? That's days and days of hard work! 
     
    That makes me feel lazy. Anyways, I guess Tarvius is trying to explain that Moderators' activities are shrouded in mystery and that most of the general public couldn't handle what they do. 
     
    Anyways, now we hit the big one. Everyone needs to listen up. I'd tell you to turn up your speakers, but that really wouldn't do anything considering this is just text. I guess you could read the following question out loud, but you'd risk looking dumb. So just read on silently. 
     
    Q. What can EF Members do to help the EF?
     
    MM: Now who among us hasn't asked this? I was expecting Tarvius to link me to a donations page and explain that hosting a website isn't cheap. Maybe he'd tell me that the EF would improve if we all left the CBUB and joined the FPL instead. Instead, he said this:
     
    A: - First off try to be a little more mature about things. People really need to grow up. 
     
    MM Edit: I'm pretty sure we all know who he's talking to *cough* FPLers *cough*
     
    Secondly, as biased as it may sound listen to the admins. They've been doing this for years, and for the most part they know what they're talking about.  
     
    MM Edit: Indeed they do. I resisted asking if thats why they don't talk much (See what i did there). But seriously, I agree. They're admins for a reason. And its not just because they were here first, although, that must factor in somewhere. So listen to what they say. They are very wise.
     
    Finally, think about what you're posting before you hit the post button. I guess the larger picture behind that is thinking about what you're doing.
     
    MM Edit: This advice should be put on the EF FAQ (Note to self: Find out if we have a FAQ) But seriously, a lot of things would improve if we followed this sound advice. It works well outside the site as well. Just think before you act.
     
    Of course there's plenty more people could be doing to help the site
     
    MM Edit: Like getting a college degree in coding and helping the finish this site. Also, if any of you guys have a bunch of extra cash just sitting there (such as myself. I use my cash as firewood during the cold winter months) send them to the EF Staff. They're highly underpaid. All of them are literally working for food... Wait, no, they don't get food. What's it called when you work for free? 
     
    , but these are things seem fairly important. 
    Also, start typing in complete sentences, and use proper grammar
     
    MM: Nevr! 
     
    Note: Actually, typing in full sentences would really help everyone who likes to understand what you just wrote. So invest in a good dictionary, or learn how to use google.
     
    Q. What's your favorite Disney movie?
     
    A: -Don't have one.
     
    MM: As you can see, like all the other admins, Tarvius is both wise and spiteful at things that bring joy to children. 
     
    http://blogs.nyu.edu/blogs/bmg258/berniestakeonthead/Disney.jpg
     
    Q. Did Michael Jackson die naturally?
     
    A: -I think he died of a natural drug overdose
     
    MM: Man this interview's old. 
     
    Q. Which is better, the Wii, Playstation 3, or X-Box 360?
     
    A: - They all have their pros and cons. I don't really have a favorite
     
    MM: Props to Tarvius. I haven't seen someone dodge a question that skillfully since Couric interviewed Palin.
     
    Q. Ever dated a blonde?
     
    A: -Secret
     
    MM: After answering, Tarvius let out a loud sigh and chuckled. 
     
    Q. What type of phone do you have?
     
    A: - IPhone
     
    MM: Tarvius then spent the next twenty minutes showing me the type of apps he has. His favorite is this one app that makes it look like you're drinking beer. Actually pretty cool. 
     
    http://blog.thebigwordproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/ibeer.jpg
     
    Q. Which do you read, the New York Times, USA Today, or TIME?
     
    A: - I read whatever I can get my hands on
     
    Q. What do you look for in a woman? 
     
    A: - Thinking...
     
    MM: So, she just has to be able to think? Clearly, Tarvius has lowered his standards since those blonde-hunting days. Or so I assume. 
     
    Q. Do you trust our government?
     
    A: -Hell no.
     
    MM: Smart man. Remember, Bush was president at the time of this interview, way back in... 2009? Well, then Tarv must made some type of typo...
     
    Q. What's your favorite movie?
     
    A: -I don't really have one.
     
    Q. Which do you like more, Marvel or DC?
     
    A: -Skip
     
    MM: As an Admin, Tarv had to show no preference to either side. However, keep in mind that he agreed to be interviewed by "Marvel's Corner", instead of DC's Edge, my competitor. Ah, curse them...
     
    Finish this Sentence:
     
    Q. Barack Obama needs to ___________ in order to help America.
     
    A: - Start embracing the principles of the constitution.
     
    Q. These questions are ___________?
     
    A: -Designed to spark an argument.
     
    MM: Tarv's a smart guy. Tried to get him to spell icup later on, but he quickly refused. 
     
    Q. The Inte rnet is full of ___________?
     
    A: -Websites
     
    MM: ...
     
    Q. The biggest mistake you've ever made is __________?
     
    A: -When I was just a baby, My Mama told me, "Son, Always be a good boy, Don't ever play with guns," But I shot a man in Reno, Just to watch him die, When I hear that whistle blowin', I hang my head and cry.
     
    MM: A No Prize for whoever gets this reference. Seriously, I love the south, and I had trouble with it, so I don't think anyone will get it immediately.
     
    Q. Power needs to be used ________?
     
    A: -Electricity
     
    MM: ?
     
    Q. A bad EF members should be ________?
     
    A: -Dealt with according to their actions.
     
    MM: After this question, Tarvius smiled in a creepy fashion, then pulled out a ban-hammer. EFers, beware!
     
    On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest...
     
    Q. How smart are you?
     
    A: - It depends who you ask.
     
    MM: Indeed. Einstein might say I'm an average thinker, but guys like Jay Leno will admit I'm a genius. 
     
    Q. How much do you exercise?
     
    A: -6
     
    MM: Huh. Tarvius may not be living in the US....
     
    http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd94/SeabiscuitChick/fat_kid.jpg
     
    Q. How often do you read?
     
    A: -9
     
    Q. How much do you like the EF?
     
    A: -8 on a good day. 4 on a bad day.
     
    MM: I'm a sure Tarvius would move his numbers up a little nowadays. We've improved quite a lot recently. Right? ... Right?!
     
    Q. How good is Mexican food?
     
    A: -7
     
    MM: Should be a 10... However, judging from his avatar, he probably likes Asian food more...
     
    Q. How good are you at martial arts?
     
    A: -It depends who you ask.
     
    MM: Yep. Tarvius can kill a man with the jaws of life, a life-preserver, and the irony derived of both those items.
     
    Q. How much time do you spend on the EF?
     
    A: -Ha too much I suppose.
     
    MM: Ha. Don't we all...
     
    Q. How awesome is Marvel Man?
     
    A: -
     
    MM: Clearly, a 1-10 scale was too small. I'm like a 100...
     
    . How important is grammar?
     
    A: -Very important.
     
    MM: Arg! It's a 1-10 question Tarv...
     
    Q. How much do you like the Admins?
     
    A: -It kind of depends who you're talking about. I don't dislike any of the admins, but I prefer some to the others
     
    MM: Huh. Clearly, Tarvius is hinting at the deep Admin politics that go on behind closed doors. Which reminds me... You guys want to know why Tarvius is a mod now? It's cause-...
     
    ADMIN EDIT: SILENCE YOU FOOL! MUWAHAHA!
     
    http://daily.likeme.net/lm/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/ed-evil-dead-zombie.jpg
     
    ... -and then, when the police squad had finally left, the remaining Admins agreed to demote Tarvius. It was a sad day for all. The End.
    -----------------------
     
    Well, there it is. An interview with a CBUB Legend and current EF Moderator. I hope you guys all learned something (that Johnny Cash references are about as obscure as you can get on a comic book forum). 
     
    Now I'd like to take a moment to thank Tarvius for agreeing to participate in this interview. The guy's great, and one of the main reasons the CBUB is still running. If you could, take a moment to thank Tarvius for all his hard work yourself. And if you're ever bored, learn how to draw his avatar. Impress Asian chicks & what not.
     
    Anyways, that's it for today. This is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Excelsior!
     
    Fun Fact: Tarvius' original name was Superwolverineman, and you should all do your best to convince him to change it back (how awesome would it be if Wolverine was Superman?! However, would he be able to use his adamantium claws, or would his indestructible skin cancel that out?) Anyways, that just goes to show that there isn't a better guy to moderate this comic book forum. Thanks Tarvius!
  3. Marvel Man

    Quote of the Day: 8/17/09

    By Marvel Man,


    glitch
    Welcome, this is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Well, for the first time in my blog's history, I'm going to keep my commitment, and post another quote of the day (unlike my MMMMM. Don't worry, that might come back).
     
    Anyways, here it is:
    -------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Quote of the Day 8/17/09
     
    "Never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today."
    - Benjamin Franklin
     
    Again, another call against lazyness and overall procrastination.
     
    Anyways, that's it for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off.
    Excelsior!
  4. Marvel Man

    Quote of the Day: 8/15/09

    By Marvel Man,


    glitch
    Alright, welcome, young and old, this is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Now, tonight I'm going to post something I rarely do. Infact, this is the first time I ever do this. What is it?
     
    THE QUOTE OF THE DAY!
     
    Oh yeah. Every other day I'll post one of my personal favorite quotes. This, I promise. Now, enough talk, let's get to this quote!
     
    ---------------------------------------------------
    Today's Quote: 8-15-09
     
    "You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today. 
    - Abraham Lincoln
     
    So true. I hope laziness is one day destroyed... 😞
     
    Anyways, this is Marvel Man, signing off.
    Excelsior!
  5. Marvel Man

    Quote of the Day 8/19/09

    By Marvel Man,


    glitch
    Alright, welcome people. This, is Marvel's Corner!
     
    As you all know, every other day I post one of my own cool quotes. Well, now, every once in a while, I'll also add an awesome quote from a Marvel character. Today is one of those days.
     
    ----------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Quote
     
    The quote:
    "He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you. "
    - Friedrich Nietzsche
     
    And the Marvel quote:
    "While Solo lives, Terror Dies!"
    - Solo
     
    That's it for today. Until next time.
    Excelsior!
  6. Marvel Man
    Ladies and Gentlemen! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Today, before you lays a never before seen exclusive. A look into the mind of an individual so unique, so entertaining, that he puts us all to shame with his every word. Armed with his unique brand of humor, and a wit sharper than any sword forged by man, this individual now roams the Electric Ferret site as an Admin. But who is this man? How did he become an Admin? Is it true that he has my mother hostage?
     
    Read on my readers. For tis the tale of rags to riches. This is the tale of
    Treacherous! CBUBer! FPLer! Admin!
     
    http://www.electricferret.com/forum/index.php?showuser=104
     
    ----------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: An Interview with Treacherous
     
    For those of you who don't know Treacherous, 1) What?! How do you not know Treacherous? And 2) I have a short biography ready for you. It'll catch you up and explain some basic questions.
     
    Biography: Treacherous
    By Marvel Man
     
    I first met Treacherous a few years back. Having wasted all of my fortune, and having been kicked out of most Internet forums for my extreme love of Marvel, I arrived to the CBUB as a young, naive, and lost man. It was during this time that I first encountered Treacherous. At the time, the CBUB was a different being than it is today. There were trolls and multi-accounters here and there, but for the most part, the CBUB was populated by excellent writers who filled the place with wonderful and often entertaining matches. Guys like Granobulax and Boston Celtic, and many more who's names have been lost to the ages. It was during this time, that Treacherous ruled as the undisputed King of the CBUB! The man roamed its halls with the respect of every man, and the heart of every maiden (So, about two girls. On a good day). Treacherous rightfully earned his place at the top through his matches, which were always excellent and definitely set the golden standard. I had the good fortune of reading some. Among these was his "Tournament of Fighters", which, on a separate note, was a tournament in which Iron Fist was eliminated before his time (Why! Why?!).
     
    However, more so than his raw talent, his great personality was what won over many a peer. Indeed, when I was first learning how to use a comma (a skill I have yet to master), Treacherous took me in as a pupil. In the school of hard knocks, I, as well as many other young CBUBers, trained day after day until we could find the vote buttons with a blindfold on. We trained in the coldest days of winter, in the hottest days of summer, and the rainiest days of monsoon season (which totally sucked for our computers). Pretty much all I know about writing came from two sources. Public Education, and Treacherous (But it was mostly Treach).
     
    Anyways, having done everything on the CBUB (and I mean everything. This man's record was as long as Marvel's awesomeness) Treacherous took a bold step into uncharted waters. The FPL.
     
    The beast of the Electric Ferret. The hawk to the CBUB's dove. The part of the site which maintains itself on CBUBers' hopes and dreams. In fact, the FPL was started after serge broke up with his girlfriend, who loved to write. serge, in an act of anger, created a writer's greatest opponent. It fears nothing... It killed Amelia Earhart... It lives in your nightmares...
     
    http://images.webdesignbooth.com/cartoon-character-tutorials/cute-furry-vector-monster.jpg
    AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!
     
    Knowing this, Treacherous still entered. Oh, what a dark day it was for the CBUB, for it knew, that its favorite son was gone.
     
    Or was he?
     
    Despite all odds, Treacherous triumphed as he always did. Battling through the FPL, Treach rose to Hall of Fame status. His two most famous characters lay below:
     
    http://www.electricferret.com/fplstatic/ar...3-450342009.htm
    http://fantasypowersleague.wikia.com/wiki/...Golem_of_Warsaw
     
    Now, flashforward: The times are changing. Looking for new leaders, serge came upon Treacherous. Beloved by all the men, and loved by all the women (and some of the men as well), Treacherous was a natural choice. It was then that Treach transcended into a new realm of power. He was now more than a CBUBer. More than a FPLer. He was... AN ADMIN!
     
    Vowing to lead the CBUB into a new golden age, Treacherous now battles the evils of multi-accounting, trolls, and rampant corruption (or, at least, until the check clears). So, with my pleasure, I agreed to interview Treacherous (I was not at all intimidated into doing this...)
     
    Mother, if you're reading this, I'll save you! I'LL SAVE YOU MOTHER!!!
    ---------------
     
    About Treacherous:
     
    Q. How long have you been reading comics?
     
    A: Since around Elementary School. My first comics were Power Pack, Alpha Flight (Don't tell Sober) and X-men.
     
    MM: Ah, what an odd mix. Canada's crime fighters (being Canadian, Alpha Flight mostly battled angry lumberjacks, French Canadians, and the occasional beaver gang), a group of misunderstood but superpowered kids, and the X-Men.
     
    Q. What is your favorite music group? Any specific genre?
     
    A: I am really into an artist named Janelle Monae. She's so eclectic. I like non-contrived weirdoes.
     
    MM: *Google search* Oh, I saw her on Dancing with the Stars.
     
    ... I mean, uhh... I saw it on those ESPN awards...
     
    Q. Do you have any kids?
     
    A: I have a little 2 year old girl.
     
    MM: Congratulations!
     
    Still, now the world must wait and wonder if this young girl will turn out like her father. Will she be the next Treacherous?
     
    http://mem.fm/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/cute-baby-girl.jpg
    Treachery!!
     
    Q. As a kid, who'd you look up to?
     
    A: My dad. Still do. He's a great man.
     
    MM: That's nice. Y'know who I look up to?
     
    My mother! What have you done to her?
     
    Q. Is there anything you will debate over on the Internet?
     
    A: I'll debate anything I know anything about. However, I think I have A.D.D. Debates don't hold my interest long.
     
    MM: Whether to prove a point or not, Treacherous refused to answer any more questions and instead began to swivel back and forth on his chair.
     
    We had to wait forty minutes before he finally calmed down.
     
    Q. How did you pick your username?
     
    A: It was my name when I left G.I.Joe to join Cobra.
     
    MM: After this, I laughed for a good bit. Throughout the whole thing, Treach just gave me one of those death stares. I quickly surprised him with the next question.
     
    Q. Quick! Your wife/girlfriend can't read this, so answer truthfully. Do you have a celebrity crush?
     
    A: I don't trust you at all. This has set up written all over it.
     
    MM: See, Treach is just not that trusting.
     
    Note: Mrs. Treach, sorry. I tried. Please don't kill me. I tried woman!
     
    Q. How did you find the CBUB? The EF? The FPL?
     
    A: Serge came down from the heavens and chose me to view it. I did. He was happy.
     
    MM:
     
    Q. Were you/are you, a good student in school?
     
    A: Not until college. I hated school. I didn't see the point until college...then...it was too late.
     
    MM: At this point, Treach broke down. For a while. I'm not joking, it was at least two hours of crying. Heck, the staff and I went to eat at Olive Garden, we came back and Treach was still crying (Don't worry, we got him some breadsticks).
     
    Q. Is there anything you regret?
     
    A: Not seeing the point until college.
     
    MM: It's cool Treach. You have a good future administrating the Electric Ferret. I'm sure the pay's good.
     
    About being an Admin:
     
    Q. What was your first reaction when you were asked to become an Admin?
     
    A: I was a little intimidated. Plus, Cobra Commander wasn't going to be happy with my many alliances.
     
    MM: ... Is it safe for me to post this? Should I hire bodyguards? I don't want to mess with Cobra. I still have scars from last time...
     
    Q. What have you done to help the EF?
     
    A: Nothing positive. There was that one guy I killed for Iva...I've said too much.
     
    MM: Aha! Now we know what happened to all the women and children on the EF.
     
    Those fiends.
     
    Q. Have you ever Administrated a site before?
     
    A: Two little sites called the Haven of Wiidom and Writer's Kingdom. But don't tell the other Admins. If they knew that they'd drop me like a bad diet. This is a private interview right? Right?
     
    MM: This is true. The Admins follow a strict guide. Through intense bribery, begging, and sheer charm (which I call more bribery), I was able to obtain a few pages. Check em out:
     
     
    Q. What are the daily challenges of Administrating the EF?
     
    A: The killings.
     
    MM: ...
     
    Q. If EFers met you in real life, would they be surprised?
     
    A: Yes. Someone once said they thought I was a redneck. I most certainly am not.
     
    MM: Treach didn't help his case much. After this question, Treach made the staff and I listen to Willie Nelson cassettes, watch two hours of NASCAR, and then go hunting with him.
     
    On the bright side, we ran over a deer, which was kind of cool. Well, in a "I finally killed something" kind of way.
     
    Q. Which do you like the most, the CBUB or the FPL?
     
    A: Come on Marvel. Come on. Are you trying to get me kicked out of the Admins?
     
    MM: Yes.
     
    The CBUB needs you Treach! It needs you!
     
    Q. What is your favorite Official CBUB Match?
     
    A: Goku vs. Superman. Classic
     
    MM: Eh... It lacked enough Marvel characters.
     
    http://www.electricferret.com/fights/issue_156.htm
     
    Q. As you know, members run in fear from admins. Is this fear justified, or totally justified?
     
    A: The Admins are harmless. People are really over exaggerating the baby sacrifices and the Conspiracies plot of destroying the world.
     
    MM: You heard it here first boys and (hopefully) girl. Our suspicions were proven right. It is just a matter of days before the Admins rise up and overthrow our government. Hide your kids, hide your wife, etc.
     
    But seriously, when they come for you, try to remember...
     
    I was right!
     
    Q. From the fine halls of the FPL, to the lowly CBUB slums, there have been rumors of multi-accounting running rampant on the site. Is the threat that bad? And if so, when and how will the admins deal with this?
     
    A: Man is inclined to exaggerate almost everything - except his own mistakes. ~Author Unknown
     
    MM: "In the beginning there was nothing. God said, 'Let there be light!' And there was light. There was still nothing, but you could see it a whole lot better." ~ Ellen DeGeneres
     
    Q. My connections inform me that there is an Admin only part of the forum. Is this true? And if so, how cool is it? Is that where all our female members are kept?!
     
    A: Who are your connections? What do they know? Tell me now!!
     
    MM: During the interview, Treach would occasionally state something like this. The situation usually ended like this:
     
    Me: "You'll get nothing out of me!"
     
    Treach: "Bah! That's what they all say! Behold!"
     
    Me: "Haha! Do your best, you mo-... Wait, what's that? What are you doing?"
     
    Treach: "Oh, you mean this autographed but also mint issue of X-Men # ? I'm just looking at it. It's kind of dark here though. I don't want to strain my eyes..."
     
    Me: "No! Put the lighter down! NOOOOO!!!!"
     
    Treach: "Oh man, this issue is way too heavy. I might just drop it unless, I don't know, someone were to hand over their sources..."
     
    Me: "NNNNNNNOOOOOOO!! AAHHHHH!!!"
     
    Q. What can EF Members do to help the EF?
     
    A: Send me money.
     
    MM: ...
     
    Silly/Extra:
     
    Q What was your favorite cartoon as a kid?
     
    A: G.I.Joe and Transformers
     
    MM: You mean the movies? Wait, they were cartoons?
     
    Q. Do you agree or disagree with that helmet to helmet NFL rule?
     
    A: I think helmets should stick to their own kind.
     
    MM: ...
     
    Q. Have you ever smoked?
     
    A: Nah.
     
    MM: Woo!
     
    Q. Ever had a crazy girlfriend?
     
    A: Better question: Have you ever not...
     
    MM: Even better question: You have the money, now where's my mother?
     
    Q. What type of phone do you have?
     
    A: IDK, it rings a lot.
     
    MM: Ah, yes, I think I know which one you're talking about it. I almost bought the same one.
     
    http://www.cottontreepress.com/images/old-phone.gif
     
    Q. If you could have any accent, from any country, which would you have?
     
    A: What?
     
    MM: I am unfamiliar with that accent. It could just be that I'm reading it wrong. The voice in my head speaks in a thick Arnold Schwarzenegger accent.
     
    Q. What type of reading material do you read?
     
    A: Comics...the end.
     
    MM: This is why he is an Admin. You guys reading this probably read books, and newspapers. Not Treach though. You've got to admire that.
     
    Q. What do you look for in a woman?
     
    A: Intelligent life.
     
    MM: As in, extra terrestrial? A bit odd Treach. A bit odd.
     
    http://www.browsergame-base.de/bilder/artikel/star-wars-konzepte/shaak-ti-final.jpg
     
    Q. Do you trust our government?
     
    A: I'm content to live in ignorant bliss.
     
    MM: When asked who our current president was, Treach responded "Jimmy Carter of course... Right?"
     
    Q. What's your favorite movie?
     
    A: I don't have a particular favorite. I like things with big budgets and explosions
     
    MM: I just like big budgets... In my bank account.
     
    Q. Which do you like more, Marvel or DC?
     
    A: Are those my only choices?
     
    MM: Is there anything else?
     
    I'll just assume Marvel.
     
    Finish this Sentence:
     
    1. The egg came out of the bird?
     
    2. The funniest thing I ever read on the Internet was your screen name.
     
    MM: Oh, haha. Clever. Here Treach, let's celebrate your joke with some delicious, non-poisonous apples...
     
    3. These questions are created by you, so...what can you expect?
     
    MM: Ah! The flaw has been exposed...
     
    4. The average CBUBer is extremely scared of multi accounters that may or may not exist.
     
    MM: May exist? Treacherous is clearly implying there are tons of them! Quickly run for the hills! Abandon all hope, and hand over your women! Let us hope they know mercy...
     
    5. The average FPLer is currently a bunch of CBUBers that don't get it.
     
    MM: So... Improvement?
     
    6. The Internet is full of porn?
     
    MM: *high five*
     
    7. When my friends forward me funny cat videos on YouTube, I stop being their friends?
     
    MM: Really? Not even the ones where the cat has mittens on its feet?
     
    8. Power needs to be used by me?
     
    9. A bad EF member should be dealt with in the most excruciating way possible?
     
    MM: Wait, you're gonna make us read bad fan fiction?! Noooo!!!!
     
    10. Comics nowadays are all written by Brian Michael Bendis?
     
    MM: This is true in that "OMG! Why is this true?!" type of way.
     
    On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest...
     
    Q. How smart are you?
     
    A: You really have to add common sense to my smart and even then, I don't get much higher than a six.
     
    MM: I add in my age and easily pass ten.
     
    2. How cool are you to younger people?
     
    A: If they can take a joke, then I'm great to them.
     
    MM: Treach then told several jokes, all with a Seinfeld voice. It was painful.
     
    3. How often do you read?
     
    A: Whenever I'm not on the computer, working, watching T.V. or supporting a family.
     
    MM: ... So... Is that three or four hours?
     
    4. How much do you like the EF?
     
    A: This much... *holds out hands*
     
    MM: Dang. That's a lot. I only like it this much... *Holds thumb and index finger slightly apart*
     
    5. How cool is the USA?
     
    A: The US is coming to an end of its reign. I've got a passport for Canada ready. Look out Soberguy, here I come...
     
    MM: Treach then busted out a big Canadian flag, announced his love for hockey, and chugged a liter of maple syrup.
     
    6. How funny would you say you are?
     
    A: Sorry, couldn't hear you from all the laughing in the background.
     
    MM: This true. I do all my interviews before a live audience.
     

    Audience during my entrance... I should get riot walls.
     
    7. How much time do you spend on the EF?
     
    A: Too much. Way too much.
     
    MM: ... don't we all...
     
    8. How awesome is Marvel Man?
     
    A: What?
     
    MM: ... There's no way you didn't understand the question. The correct answer is "OMG! Marvel Man is my hero! He is the coolest guy ever. Marvel for president!", or if you are Olivia Wilde then it is, "I want to make sweet love to him. Then give him tons of money."
     
    https://graphics.pohlbrothers.com/graphics/wall/img/wOliviaWilde0-1600x1200.jpg
    Looking for this picture was awesome.
     
    9. How important is grammar?
     
    A: Just important enough for me to be able to understand what you are trying to convey.
     
    MM: Me not understnd!
     
    10. No seriously, how awesome is Marvel Man?
     
    A: That's going to cost you extra.
     
    MM: More than I already paid?
     
    11. How much do you like the Admins?
     
    A: The admins are good people, despite being blasphemous, cynical, bastiches.
     
    MM: Ah, do you feel the love tonight? (Boom! Elton John reference. And Treach said it couldn't be done...)
     
    Bonus Question: How do you decide what you put in your signature?
     
    A: It doesn't take long. People say the darndest things. I take those things and twist them to my whim
     
    MM: And twist them he does... Like a pretzel.
     
    And finally, is there anything you want the EF members to know?
     
    A: I need you all to know that sending me money through any means is okay. Thank you.
     
    MM: Yes. The bank account is under my name, but... uh... the whole thing is going to Treach...
     
    Yeah...
     
    *Insert interesting fact people would be surprised to know about you*
     
    I'm holding Marvel Man's mother ransom. Send that money. Heil Cobra!
     
    He's not joking! Help my mother!
     
    ----------------------------------------------------
     
    Well, this interview was a long time coming, and I want to thank Treach for his patience. Having said that, Treacherous is an amazing admin, doing things most admins don't have the guts to do (Like admit they were ever into the CBUB). The man is always there, ready to help the younger members, while also being able to provide humor and entertainment on a regular basis. Who amongst us can resist smiling as we read his ever changing signature? And while he is often seen in the FPL, he will always be remembered as that guy who used to write awesome CBUB matches. I've been on this site longer than I can remember (so three days, at least), and I can't think of a more trustworthy, funny, and all around likeable guy. Treach, had you not kidnapped my mother, I would still have wanted to inteview you. The EF will always be a fun, and highly nostalgic website as long as you're around. On behalf of all my staff, and the majority of the EF, I'd like to say:
     
    Thanks Treacherous!
  7. Marvel Man
    Hello and welcome back ladies and gentlemen! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    No, you are not having that dream where Marvel Man updates his blog. No, this is actually happening. So sit right back and I'll tell you how I became the Prince of Blogs. And afterwards we'll discuss some Japanese Animation. 
     
    -----------------------------------------------------
    Tonight's Topic: Marvel Man's Top 5 Anime List Of All Time
     
    Before we begin, we have to take a look at what an anime is. We'll explore the origin of this unique Asian form of animation, and how it developed into the art form it is today.
     
    ... Nah, I'm joking with you guys. Let's get down to the list. Also, due to the oncoming economic armageddon, I will rank these shows with euros. We all know that currency won't last long. Long live America!
     
    Anyways, coming in at number 5:
     
    5. Blood +

     
    Plot: Female High School student meets mysterious Cello Player, who reveals that she is actually a Vampire Queen. Bewildered Girl must then fall in love, battle her sister (who is an EVIL Vampire Queen), and protect her family. 
     
    Thoughts: First of all, this list is based entirely off my Anime Watching experience. I have watched all these series from beginning to end. I would have made this into a Top 10 list, but I don't think I've watched ten anime series. If any serious anime fan is reading this, allow me to apologize. Blood + comes in at number 5 mostly because I needed a fifth anime for this list. No one ever wants to read a Top 4 list. That just sounds lame.
     
    Anyways, I don't recommend watching Blood +, unless you're a teenaged girl. This series is a young girl's fantasy with bloody violent action scenes. The main character, who is so bland that I can't remember her name, stumbles though a relatively simple plot (which is somehow stretched into 50 episodes?). Her every move is ridiculously predictable, and most of her time is spent freaking when her bodyguard/love interest gets wounded (not to worry folks, the guy's a vampire so nothing can kill him, not even sunlight). This anime is not worth your time. I only watched this because a friend of mine really liked it. 
     
    Two Euros out of Five:
    €€
     
    4. Claymore

     
    Plot: Imagine the Middle Ages, except instead of imaginary dragons you have real demon beast things, and instead of brave knights you have blonde chicks with superpowers/swords. Bad demon beast things are bad, while Claymores are good. 
     
    Thoughts: Claymore is a much better anime than Blood +. It has a huge amount of action. This is one of those anime series where humans have had all their insides filled to the brim with blood, so a single cut will have them squirting blood everywhere. Still, I'm not complaining. The plot is easy to follow, and there is rarely a moment where someone or something is not killing something. My only complaint is that all the Claymores (the good guys) look almost identical. When they're flying around slashing things at ninja speeds, it's hard to tell who's who. 
     
    Three Euros out of five:
    €€€
     
    3. Death Note

     
    Plot: Super smart teen faces off against another equally smart teen in a game of cat & mouse. A notebook that can kill people is involved somehow. Also, demons!
     
    Thoughts: Death Note was the first anime I watched in recent years. My lady friend had been begging me to watch it for a while, but I had always brushed away anime. It looked childish. I focus on more adult things, like comic books. Boy, was I surprised when I finally watched Death Note. These characters were definitely not school girls with magical powers. They were not perfectly white characters. At various times, I found myself rooting for Light (the "bad guy" of the series). Sure, I'd been exposed to gray moralities before, but in anime form I had never really expected anything. 
     
    I highly recommend watching Death Note. The series is relatively short (I watched it all one weekend). It makes one think, somewhat. It is far from a masterpiece, but it'll take a while to push it out of my Top 5 Anime list. 
     
    Three and half Euros out of five:
    €€€ €/2
     
    2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

     
    Plot: Based in a world where alchemy defeated modern science during the Middle Ages, two brothers attempt to bring their mother back to life. Limbs are lost, but the action sets the boys on a path full of adventure. 
     
    Thoughts: If Death Note showed me that Anime was more than just cartoons, FMA showed me that Anime could be greater than traditional tv shows or movies. I watched the original FMA first, then slowly began Brotherhood (The original series has some fifty episodes in it, all of which are more or less summarized in Brotherhood's first fifteen episodes). FMA: Brotherhood had a fast paced plot, with many likable characters. I actually wanted to see what happened next in this show (that's far more than I expected from it). I recommend this series to anyone who likes a good story. There are so many good moments in this series. 
     
    Four Euros out of five:
    €€€€
     
    And now, for my personal favorite anime of all time...
     
    1. Dragonball Z

     
    Plot: Blasted from his dying world, Kakarot grows up to become the Earth's greatest champion. Tons of action, yelling, and all around awesomeness is involved. 
     
    Thoughts: What is there to say about DBZ that hasn't been said? Appearing sometime in the 90s, DBZ was the right show for the right time. DBZ filled the hearts and minds of young boys and girls all around the world. It featured heroes who believed in fighting for good for the sake of good. The bad guys were evil, and beating them into a pulp was always a good thing. Goku, although a nice guy, never tried to get Cell or Frieza to talk about their feelings. He just ripped his shirt off, yelled for a couple episodes, then punched a hole through the bad guys. Things were simple enough, but it never felt like the show was for little kids. Having grown a little since then, I'm man enough to admit that DBZ is far from the Greatest Anime of All Time. That title probably belongs to an anime where a robot, who represents modern consumerism and human greed, befriends a talking dolphin, who represents humanity's need for a connection with nature. But I'm okay with that, because DBZ was awesome and I loved it. 
     
    Five Euros out of five:
    €€€€€
     
    Well, that's the end of this list. I hope you guys enjoyed it. All these shows (except for DBZ) can be enjoyed on Netflix. Also, I hope I can update this blog more often, but who knows what will happen. Thanks for the views though!
     
    That's it for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Excelsior!
  8. Marvel Man
    Welcome! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Today I'm doing something that goes against everything good ol' Grandpa Marvel Man taught me about blogging. I'm spilling the beans. I'm letting it all hang out. I'm giving away all the tips and tricks. 
     
    So join me! Quickly! Soon my staff will realize that there is no lost puppy and come back to stop me. So act now!
    ---------------------------------
    Today's Topic: How to Start an EF Blog
     
    Okay, I'm going to let you in on a secret. I know for certain that all the talented CBUBers follow Marvel's Corner. I aim my blog at the core problems of our time and provide deep up to date news. Also, I fill the blog with pictures of hot ladies and kittens. 
     

    I was going to find a hot lady picture, but I spent three hours looking for this picture instead. 
     
    Anyways, the secret? It's about the future. The future of the EF. It ain't in the FPL or in the CBUB. It isn't the forum. Nah. The future...
     
    IS BLOGGING!
     
    So act now! Follow my patent pending process to start up your blog today!
     
    Step 1: Idea:
    Do you ever wonder how Shakespeare, Homer, or any of the great writers of old were able to be so successful? Its easy. It requires hard work, determination, and the ability to completely rip off any good idea you might encounter. Or at least, that's what Wikipedia told me. 
     
    Nowadays, since Al Gore invented the Internet, you can't get away with plagiarizing anymore. So, before you start your blog, think of some original ideas/themes. What will your blog cover? Will it be driven by reviews or news? What will your blog be named?
     
    Of course, this step is totally optional. I jumped into the blog game with no idea what I was getting into. I still don't know what the blog's about, so you don't have to either. Just go with the flow sometimes. However, the following step is very important.
     
    Step 2: The Name
    In the real world, people tell you "location, location, location". And not only for obvious questions, like "Can you please say 'location' three times?" People say that word three times in real estate and in the business world, because location really does matter. Do you think Hummers sell well in Ethiopia? How many snuggies do you think Cuban people buy? Ever bought water in a bottle, when it's basically free from the tap?
     

    Yeah... Eh... Who'd do something so silly...
     
    Anyways, location doesn't really matter on the EF, so we say "Name, name, name". I mean, I don't know if other people say it, but I demand that my staff shout it once every hour. 
     
    Reader: Yo, Marvel Man, I'm not interested in hearing how you abuse your staff. What's so important about the name?
     
    Ah, good question. The name is your brand. It's the first thing people see when they click on the EF Blogs. It's what people will say to one another if they ever talk about your blog. Just try to think about all the times you heard someone mention Marvel's Corner. 
     
    ...
     
    Yeah, I know. You probably hear about my blog everyday. No need to tell me.
     
    Anyways, Naming Tips:
    •  If your name is something really long with numbers at the end, think of another shorter name. I'm not bashing people's names, I'm just stating the obvious. Long ridiculous names aren't catchy. As everyone knows, catchy = success. 
    • Get creative. Once the EF audience reads this "How to", everyone will want to get into the blog game. Don't fall into the "Username's Blog" trap. Try something else. Maybe "Nova's Crib", "Soberguy's Canadian Blog", or "Watch Treacherous and the other Admins Torture CBUBers". All are good names. 
     
    Step 3: Pictures
    People like them. They make your blog post look a lot bigger than it actually is. You can also use pictures to keep a post from becoming to wordy/lengthy. But most importantly, it gives you an excuse to look up pictures of kittens and/or hot ladies. 
     

    These drive bloggers everyday. 
     
    Step 4: Content
    This might not be a concern for most blogs, but if you really want to stand out, you're gonna need some content. Looking through the EF Blogs, a lot don't have any posts in them, yet have tons of views. However, the truly followed, adored blogs will have content 99% of the time. 
     
    Content Tips:
    • Content is up completely up to you. Use your blog how you want. Day to day journal? Kinda girly, but ok. A way to record all the women you've dated? Really weird, but ok. A list of your favorite comic books? Perfect. Something happened in sports? Nice. New movie you want to review? Great. 
    • Content can be enhanced with pictures, but don't rely on them too much, unless they're really awesome. 
    • Top 10, Top 5, Top # lists are great and used by every blog out there. There are websites that literally, only post these lists. This means tons of competition, but the lists are easy to make and have an infinite number of subjects. Have fun making them.
     
    That's basically all you need to know to make and run a blog. However, here comes the hard, dangerous parts. These are the things all bloggers need to watch out for. I've seen a lot of good blogs go down due to these. They're called, the THREE BLOGGING NIGHTMARES!
     

     
    The Last Day
    The first threat you face when you want to post a new blog post isn't too bad. It's just the end of time itself. 
     
    Yes! The end of time itself. You see, the blog system that serge designed was meant to stop on December 31st, 2009. This is the date serge assumed to world would end. Although a genius, serge was also a bit superstitious. By adding up all the comics Marvel and DC post every year, then dividing the sum by the amount of times Jean Grey has died, and finally multiplying by the amount of times Superman has been attacked with kryptonite, you get 2009. To get the month and date, serge read the bible, the letter W's encyclopedia, and Peter David's Hulk run. I don't know the exact formula, but he got December 31st for some reason. On this date, an invasion from various alien lifeforms would take place. The only way to combat the aliens would be to a "Comic Book Universe Battle" writing competition. This is why serge originally created the CBUB. To save mankind. So keep writing on the CBUB. You're writing for the world. 
     

    That's the CBUB.
     
    How to beat it: As you probably know, the world didn't end in 2009. And if you didn't know, congrats! You lived past doomsday! Anyways, since this is the last date available to post. In order to maneuver around this, a blogger must take all 365 days from 2010, add whatever date he wants to post in 2011, then multiply by 24 (for every hour of each day). This huge number is then typed up on the time space, which can thankfully be changed. 
     
    Example: You want to post on July 30, 2011.
     
    365 + 210 (July 30 is the 210th day in 2011) x 24 = 13,800
     
    So, to post a blog entry on July 30th, you'd set your date at Dec 31st, 2009 and the time would be 13,800: 08.
     
    And yes, you must do this calculation everytime you want to post. One day serge will return and fix this. And then we'll face the aliens. 
     
    Feedback
    This isn't as big of a deal as it is on the CBUB, but some people may still fall to this. As anyone who has written anything on the internet knows, you want someone to read what you just wrote. It's the whole point of writing it online. Otherwise, you could just keep a journal or something. 
     
    Having said that, you can't allow yourself to be discouraged by the lack of audience. The EF is a small site, so don't expect hundreds of instant views. Of course, sometimes the small size helps. Because the EF is so small, you have a better chance of getting people to read it, as opposed to starting a blog on some large blog-site where a new blog pops up every few minutes. 
     
    How to beat it: Don't be discouraged about the lack of early views. Keep at it and your blog will grow. Maybe it'll spread to other comic book sites? Then who knows...
     
    Laziness
    This has affected everyone whenever they do anything everywhere since the beginning of time. It's man's greatest foe. It's why we aren't all ripped even though exercise is available to almost everyone. It's why people buy those "Go Green" shopping bags but never use them. It's why you hate doing chores. Just think what the world would be like if no one was ever lazy. We'd all be well read, have tons of muscles, and this blog post wouldn't have taken me as long as it did. 
     
    Anyways, the foe is laziness and his brother, procrastination. They must be overcome to do anything in life, and specially to run a constant, well kept blog. 
     
    How to beat it: Heh. No idea. Have you seen my blog? I update every few months. Laziness and procrastination beat me like a breakfast egg. I can hear them singing Michael Jackson's "Beat It" everyday. All I can tell you is to find the inner strength to write a blog post every once in a while. Lock yourself in a room with a computer and Internet connection once a month. That'll keep your blog healthy, right? I mean, what else would you use a computer for? 
     
    Recap:
    • Use the math formula provided. 
    • Use pictures, but remember that each blog post limits you to a certain number. I think it's ten. Maybe less. If you post more, the Admins will find you. 
    • Keep the updates constant. At least in the beginning. Later you can start to update twice a year.
    • Hire a staff. Get information on all their close relatives and friends, then force them to work in harsh conditions. You got to break them before they stop complaining about working for a blog. Shut down that air conditioning and rip the "Hang in there" poster off the wall. Get them crappy Christmas presents, like snuggies, Nintendo Wiis, or HD DVDs. Later, you can demand a warm frapuccinoc a good DC comic, or something else that's hard to find.  
    • Don't take the blog too seriously. We all love to discuss politics, religion, and race, but this isn't the place for it. Unless your religion post is about how surprised you were to find out the Thing is jewish, I wouldn't post it. And yes, Fantastic Four's Thing is Jewish. 
    • Get a link to your blog and stick it on your signature. Unless you're already using some ridiculously large picture, no one will mind. 
     
    Anyways, that's it for today. Hope that helps someone. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Excelsior!
  9. Marvel Man
    Welcome folks! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Today I bring some sad news. This is my last soccer post for a while... But wait, that isn't the bad news. The bad news is that the Gold Cup Final occurred. And, well, check it out...
     
    ---------------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: The Gold Cup Final
     
    THE GOLD CUP: CONCLUSION

     
    Well, the tournament progressed like everyone knew it would. The two superpowers of North America met last Saturday. The proud, valiant USA met the powerful and confident Mexico. It was the Mexican-American War Part: II. USA was going to send Stonewall Jackson, General Lee, and a bunch of other Civil War guys, kick some booty, and take a whole bunch of land. Or, as Hollywood has shown us, we could simply send in Larry the Cable Guy. 
     

     
    Sadly, it was not meant to be. Just like the usual American digestive system when confronted by a spicy Mexican dinner, the USA national team put up a good fight but ended up in extreme pain. 
     
    The game started well though. A couple minutes in, Bradley scored a great header. Bradley, by the way, is the son of the USA soccer team's coach. The USA Coach, looks like this:
     

     
    See if you can spot his son:
     

    Heheh. 
     
    Anyways, a few minutes later, Donovan, the USA's most impressive player, delivered an impressive goal. That's right, minutes into the match, USA was winning 2-0. 2-0! In an MMA fight, that would be like one guy breaking both of the other guy's arms. 
     
    But then, it all came down. Crashing down like some sort of modern Bay of Pigs invasion. In spectacular fashion, Mexico clawed their way back, scoring two goals and tying the game up before half time. 
     
    Although the USA started the second half with heart, the Mexican team quickly ripped that heart out and ate it with a side order of beans and rice. Two more goals later, and it was all over. The last goal, in particular, was, even though scored by Mexico, great soccer at work. 
     
    Highlights: http://losangeles.sbnation.com/2011/6/26/2245121/usa-vs-mexico-2011-gold-cup-final-highlights
     
    I hope you guys check out the highlights. It was a good tournament, but in the end, it wasn't meant to be. Mexico takes the Gold Cup down south...
     

     
    That's it for today. This is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Until next time, Excelsior! 
  10. Marvel Man
    Welcome one and all! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    We are back! After a few months long turf war with some other blogs, a tornado strike on our HQ, and a battle over union rights with my staff, Marvel's Corner is back. Don't worry, I crushed my staff's spirit. Those socialists were draining me dry. "We have car payments to make... My kid can't drop out of school, she's only in fourth grade... Blah blah... You can't pay me with Marvel money, that stuff doesn't exist... I haven't eaten in days..." You want overtime, go to a DC blog. I'll just hire children. 
     
    Anyways, I'm glad to be back. I missed you guys. Plus, serge stopped mailing me checks. But seriously, let's skip past my usually witty and grammatically incorrect banter and get to the reason of this blog post. It's something you all love. Something everyone will be watching. It is...
     
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: The Gold Cup 2011
     
    THE GOLD CUP!
     

     
    People, I know you're all excited about this news, but please calm down. Some of you are probably shouting at your computer screens right now out of sheer anticipation. In fact, your excitement is so intense that it defies the laws of logic and common understanding of science by radiating throughout all time and space, so that, even now, I feel it; yes, even before I'm done writing this post I feel your excitement. 
     
    Anyways, let's get down to it for that one guy reading this who doesn't know what this prestigious soccer tournament is. As you all know, soccer leagues are broken down by continents such as Asia, Europe, South America, etc. Every few years each league/conference holds a continental tournament to find that region's top dog. The main man. The Superman. The Goku. The Team that will be able to break in lines at the cafeteria and give other teams wedgies and whatnot. For North America and that awkward stretch of land between South America and North America called Latin America, it is the Gold Cup.
     
    Twelve teams enter. Only one will emerge as America's Best Dance Crew! Wait, no, that's another competition. They do, however, earn the right to go to a pre-World Cup tournament where each continent's champion faces off. Typically Antarctica's Polar Bear team dominates that competition... 
     

    A lot of good players are lost during that tournament...
     
    Now, despite the fact that I'd love to cover every game, due to time constraints and my staff's need to sleep, I'm only gonna follow Team USA. 
     

     
    Now, I'm willing to do some sort of funny cyber-bet with anyone out there, that the USA Team will reach the final. Having won four Gold Cups (2nd most, Mexico has five), the USA Team is ready to bring it on tonight at 8 PM ET. This is a chance to start the tournament strong. They play their neighbors from the North, the capital of Hockey and homeland of Justin Bieber, Canada. Canada, although not known for soccer, has actually won the Gold Cup (back in 2000), so this will definitely be an intense match. 
     
    Having said that, the USA's greatest competition comes from the South, where longtime foe and capital of sombreros/spicy food, Mexico, awaits. The Mexican squad started out red hot, blowing out El Salvador with a 4-0 ownage Saturday. 
     
    They are, so far, the favorites.
     

    Team picture, 2011. 
     
    For more info and other teams' schedules, check this link out: http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/united/2011-gold-cup-at-a-glance/2011/06/06/AGQgNbKH_story.html
     
    Well, that's it for today folks. I hope you have all enjoyed my grammatically incorrect soccer blog. If anyone wants the ten pages longer version of this post, filled with even more soccer, PM me. 
    Until next time, this Marvel Man, signing out. 
     
    MARVELNOTE: By the way, thanks to everyone who's been checking out the blog. Reached 9000 views the other day, which surprised me considering I haven't blogged since February. Thanks. 
  11. Marvel Man
    Welcome one & all! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Today we tackle a pillar of Marvel folklore, Captain America, as we examined who will play him on the big screen. Don't know who it'll be yet? Then check our the blog!
    ------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Captain America
     
    Let's get to it. His name is Chris Evans, and you will forever know him as...
     

     
    THE HUMAN TORCH?!
     
    Wait, let me check. 
     

     
    Gah! It is him!
     
    Darn. I guess this officially retcons the Fantastic Four movies. Unless...
     
    Chris Evans is also planning on being Namor! The one man Invaders!
     

     
    But seriously, is Marvel doing the right choice here. He's a lot younger than Downy Jr & Ed Norton, but he's better than some of the rumored choices (which included that guy off GI Joe?!).
     
    Anyways, here's a pic some guy photoshopped. Ultimate Cap + Chris =
     

     
    Meh. I'll still see it. 
     
    Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Excelsior! 
  12. Marvel Man
    Welcome one and all, this is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Today we celebrate a very special occasion. We celebrate one of my favorite hero's birthday! And who is this hero? Well, if you haven't read the topic title yet, it is none other than the Merc with a Mouth, DEADPOOL! To truly celebrate, I dug into the Marvel archives and found his first appearance: New Mutants #98.
     

    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Happy B-day Deadpool/REVIEW: New Mutants #98
     
    For those of you who don't know who Deadpool is, here's a quick summary:
     
    Deadpool was once just a regular cancer stricken dude who volunteered for some weird Canadian program (which, I imagine, involved injecting him with Mapple syrup). For some odd reason, the Canadian FBI/CIA was also responsible for creating Wolverine, and in this experiment they decided to inject Wade with some of Wolverine's DNA/Substance. Due to Wolvie's healing factor and sheer badassery, this substance was succesful in saving Wade from cancer. On the negative side, his whole body was brutally scarred. He also ended up being tortured and experimented on many more times (His body survived only due to his insane healing factor. His mind however, did not make it. This whole thing made him the insane guy he is now). A few years later, Deadpool emerged with his new name (Wade Wilson) as the world's deadliest mercenary! And so began his adventures in the Marvel Universe!
     
    But in reality, this month, on this day, 20 years ago, the world saw Deadpool for the first time. Created by Rob Liefeld and Fabian Nicieza, the character was somehow able to avoid Rob's power of terrible comics (he was bitten by a radioactive DC comic. BOOM! Take that DC!). Although a minor character in his first appearance, in twenty short years, Deadpool has moved onto to rival Wolverine, and Spider Man for "Being in the most comics a month" title.
     
    Having said that, the character is definitely one of the staff's favorites. So once again, from the Marvel's Corner Staff and myself, Happy Birthday Deadpool!
     

     
    Next year he'll finally be old enough to drink!
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     
    And now for the highly anticipated review of New Mutants #98!
     

    Published Feb 10, 1991
    Writer: Fabian Nicieza
    Penciller (cover): Rob Liefeld
    Colorist: Steve Buccellato
    Letterer: Joe Rosen
    Editor: Tom DeFalco
     
    Alright, right off the bat, I can tell this will be a good comic. Look at the cover. You got three characters being introduced, while a bunch of other people gasp out of shock. Well, all of them except Cable, who looks kind of confused. On a seperate note, is Gideon a sumo wrestler or something? He's got the looks for it.
     
    Okay, so first two pages have Gideon in some weird training room. Tons of robots show up, which of course, Gideo rips through. He is also talking to some guy named Adam.
     
    He then flies down and talks to Adam, who looks like he's a young butler or something. They talk about some chick named Eve, and some guy who's name is really hard to spell.
     
    The scene then shifts to Cable and Cannonball training in the Danger Room. Cable is acting pretty unheroically here, and even goes into a speech about how all life is war. Cannonball is clearly disturbed at how Cable talks about two other mutants who died (and honestly, who wouldn't? Cable doesn't even seem to care that two kids died under his command).
     
    The scene shifts again, and we see Eve kill that really hard to spell guy's name. Her weapon of choice, poisoned coffee, of course! Only the really hardened assasins use coffee. It is, after all, a serious health hazard.
     

    BEWARE!
     
    Anyways, the scene goes back to the X-Mansion (I think). There's some really bad art in these pages, so I really didn't pay much attention to the words. However, I did see Boom Boom (yes, that's her name), and Rictor talking. They then walk out and talk to Cable about something (weather?). Finally, things get real. Out of nowhere, Cable gets blasted! By whom?
     
    DEADPOOL!

     
    Can I get a "YEEEEEEEAAAAAHHHH!!!!"?
     
    Anyways, Deadpool and Cable talk some smack before they actually start throwing punches. Cannonball, Hispanic guy, Boom Boom, and Rictor all show up to watch history be made (Deadpool takes out Cannonball and Rictor with some weird cables). Seeing that his team of mutant kids is no match for a trained assassin, Cable finally decides to do something. He breaks Deadpool's jaw, to which Deadpool responds:
     

     
    Yep. How he talked with a broken jaw, I don't know or care. But take that Cable! You know Deadpool could'be hit you in a different spot... That's mercy right there.
     
    Anyways, three pages later and Deadpool goes down. He gets attacked from behind by Domino (sadly).
     

     
    Despite expecting more Deadpool action, this is the last time he's mentioned in the comic:
     

     
    Domino and Cable then talk about who they could recruit for their team. They run down a list of superpowered teens, but most are brainwashed by an evil organization, or captured by villains. Being the hero, Cable decides that they aren't worth rescuing and then plays Domino in Jenga (I assume). Meanwhile, Rictor leaves for somewhere, and the Hispanic dude is visited by Gideon in the middle! Gideon tells him that his Dad was killed by poisoned coffee. The comic then ends. I was in no way interested in continuing the Deadpool-less story...
     
    Had it not been for Deadpool, this comic would have gotten two Stan's. With Deadpool, it gets three Stan's.
     
    Anyways, that's it for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off.
    Excelsior!
  13. Marvel Man
    Welcome back ladies and gentlemen. This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Now, before we begin, I want to apologize for the our absence. You may not know it, but due to the dire economic recession, I was force to fire most of my staff. 
     
    Well, the staff didn't take it that well, (They kept talking about the fact that they needed to feed their families or something). In desperation, they tried to keep me from blogging (They even formed picket lines!) Well, a few months later, and the strike is officially over. My staff is back, plus, they all get new health benefits. Oh, and the mandatory group showers have been closed down. 
     
    Anyways, enough chit chat. This blog's not like my past posts (You won't find news about comics, Marvel, or pictures of attractive women). This blog is aimed at the CBUB. So, whether you're a hardened vet who's seen countless Superman vs Goku matches, a newbie who is still wondering who would win a fight between Goku and Superman, or an FPLer who will deny ever watching DBZ, step inside. The CBUB's fate lies in your hands...
     
    --------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: The Comic Book Battle Universe (CBUB)
     
    Now, I'm gonna split this post into three things. 
     
    1. The CBUB, Then and Now. 
    2. The Achilles Heel of the CBUB
    3. What You Can Do to Save the CBUB
     
    Let's start with a quick history lesson. 
     
    1. The CBUB, Then and Now
     
    The story of the CBUB, is one as old as time itself, (So, about 14 years). It deals with the new Internet Age, Global Warming, and several powerful Colombian drug lords. But most importantly, it deals with a man known simply as serge.
     
    Few people know who serge is, and even less know why his name isn't capitalized. What we do know, is that serge created the Electric Ferret in 1996. The reasons why are unknown. Although, theories range from the sensible "He wanted to create a place for comic book fans.", to the strange "He really likes ferrets... And electricity?".
     

    Then again, who doesn't like ferrets?
     
    Anyways, in the beginning, the CBUB was a place of good, where massive crowds gathered to watch two fictional characters fight to the death. Indeed, these were good times for the CBUB, when men could have hilariously long usernames, and women were... They were somewhere, probably hidden behind equally long usernames. Anyways, the CBUB's former glory can still be seen in the archives:
     
    http://www.electricferret.com/fights/
     
    However, all good things must come to an end, and the CBUB's came from two different directions. One, was allowing members to create their own fights, which although a good concept, eventually led to the CBUB's decline, as terrible set ups outnumbered the good ones. 
     
    The second, was the creation of the FPL, which would, over the years, steal away promising writers from the CBUB. As the writing gap between the two sisters widened, it was clear which side the CBUB was on. She was the fat cheerleader at the bottom of the pyramid, while the FPL was the hot one who could cheat off anyone in her math class (cause her parents would be so disappointed if she got anything but an A...). 
     
    To make matters worse, serge, the creator, was able to move on to bigger things. Leaving the CBUB, serge began a successful chain of fast food restaurants. You know these chains as "Burger King" (Or so my sources claim...).  
     
    With these formidable forces working against it, the once great CBUB fell. 
     
    And fell. 
     
    And fell. 
     
    Until it hit rock bottom. 
     
    Then it fell some more. 
     
    During these cold, dark years, the CBUB was plagued by multi-accounters, bad matches, and poor writing. 
     
    For a while, it looked like the CBUB had reached the end. It wrote a will, picked out where it wanted to be buried, and called all its family. But then, just as the darkness began to engulf the CBUB, there was a sudden flash of light! 
     
    The creator, serge, had returned!
     

    Hallelujah!
     
    With a new layout, a new 6 point system in place, and the FPL out of commission, it looked like the CBUB would return to its former glory. 
     
    Sadly, this was not to be. The CBUB continued down the road to destruction. So, nothing could save it?
     
    Not if serge can help it!
     
    Again, he returns!
     
    But is it enough to save the CBUB?
     
    --------------------------------------------
     
    2. The Achilles Heel of the CBUB
     
    So, why is the CBUB failing?
     
    A lot of folks would like to say that the Character Database is to blame. "We can't add characters!", they'll say. "My match ideas are being limited!", they'll say. 
     
    So, is this the CBUB's flaw?
     
    No. 
     
    While Character Additions have been down for a while, it's not the reason why the CBUB is how it is. There are countless match possibilities available with the existing Database. Besides, the Database is full of characters no one has ever used in a match. 
     
    That's not it. 
     
    Well, is it a lack of knowledge? After all, if you use a character no one has ever heard of, your match will most likely be ignored. Or, if you pit an unknown character against a well known one, odds are most will vote for who they know. 
     
    So, is that the flaw?
     
    Nope. 
     
    You see, serge already fixed this. Sort of. 
     
    Right below every character, in every match, are helpful links that will explain any character to anyone who can click a mouse. Most probably don't use it, but it's there. Like recycle bins, they're there to help, even if most simply ignore them. 
     
    Is it the System itself? After all, the CBUB allows anyone to use up to six characters! That right belongs to people who can complete a sentence without misspelling simple words. Right?
     

     
    No, that's not it. 
     
    You see, serge was too smart to fall into such an easy trap. The System corrects itself. Sort of. 
     
    Right below every match, you should see a grading box, where you can give a set up an "It's Bad", "It's Okay", or an "It's Good" (serge removed the "OMG, THIS IS AWESOME!" option, sadly...). This should keep bad writers somewhat limited.
     
    But wait, couldn't bad writers or multi-accounters just give themselves good ratings? Did you think of that, serge?
     
    "Haha! Don't make me laugh!"
    - serge (Not actual quote...)
     
    You actually have to have a good enough rating to rate others. 
     
    Point, serge. 
     
    So, that's not it either. 
     
    But wait, it's the writers' fault! After all, who writes the matches? Who uses the same characters over and over?
     
    So, is it the writers?
     
    Sorry, but no. 
     
    You see, for every dozen of terrible writers, who write a two sentenced set up, there is at least one decent writer who actually thinks about his match. You'll recognize this guy as the one who spells "definitely" right. 
     
    So, putting the blame on the writers is unfair. 
     
    But then, who do we blame?! ... I mean, how do we address the problem, if we don't know what it is?
     
    I'll tell you. 
     
    The Achilles Heel of the CBUB....
     
    Is...
     
    ...
     
    ....
     
    YOU!
     

     
    Well, not you, you. Specifically, it's the commentator's fault. And the raters. And the voters. And the viewers. 
     
    And who's that?
     
    You. 
     
    "Huh?", you might be asking yourself (And it's really weird when you talk to yourself, specially when you're browsing the Internet).
     
    Let me explain. 
     
    1. The System is set up to keep bad writers down, while rewarding good writers. However, without people to rate matches, it can't do it's job. 
     
    2. Good writers want their hard work to be rewarded. What's that reward? It's comments. Ask any writer, and they'll tell you that good comments are always appreciated (They normally say things like "I write matches for my own enjoyment." That's a lie. We all crave comments). But without commentators, writers are discouraged, and often stop writing at all.
     
    3. On the opposite side of the spectrum, overdone matches, those Goku vs Superman/Thanos vs Darkseid/JLA vs Avengers matches get tons of attention. Even if they have set ups that even a five year old would mock, they'll get tons of views and comments. And who gives those comments and views? 
     
    You do. 
     
    And then, later, most of the CBUBers will complain about how their matches get ignored, and/or that bad matches are everywhere. Well, guess who's commenting on those bad matches and ignoring the good ones?
     
    You are. 
     

     
    But wait, there is still hope. The EF's founder, serge, has returned to beat the imperfections out of the system. Adding Characters will come back, and minor bugs shall be crushed as well. But the main flaw isn't the system. So, is the CBUB doomed?
     
    No. And the hope has a name:
     
    *Insert Your Name Here*
     

    --------------------------------------------
     
    3. What You Can Do to Save the CBUB
     
    I'll wrap this up so you can start. 
     
    1. Go Back to the CBUB!
     
    A lot of you guys reading this might be agreeing with what I'm saying (or you could totally disagree. Comment and tell me.), but odds are that you haven't been to the CBUB in a while. Yes, I'm taking to you, forum crowd. Well, if you want the CBUB to be enjoyable, go back and participate. 
     
    It's that, or keep things the same. Without the CBUB, it's just the FPL. And do you really want to head into the FPL? They'll devour your soul!
     

     
    ... Okay. So, you're back in the CBUB, wondering what happened to the cool comic-y background. Now what?
     
    2. Comment
     
    If you see a good match, write a comment! Even if you can't rate a match, tell the guy who wrote it that it was a cool match. If you don't know who's fighting, and can't tell who'd win, at least tell the guy that his set up was good.
     
    Well...
     
    That's it.
     
    Yes, just those two steps will help tremendously. By rewarding good writers with comments, you'll start to see more good matches. 
     
    Yes, rating the matches is important too. As is writing a match yourself. But the most important thing, is commenting. 
     
    Don't believe me?
     
    Check the old Back Pages/Issues again. What do you see in the CBUB's golden years?
     
    http://www.electricferret.com/fights/
     
    There's a good match up, between closely matched characters. There's a short, often witty banter between two commentators (Pat & Jay, Callisto & Clown Girl, etc.) Then what?
     
    Comments. 
     
    Tons of comments. 
     
    Some are funny. Some make good points. Some have dirty jokes in them. Some wrote detailed reviews of the match. Some reference old movies.
     
    All are interesting. 
     
    After that, there's a short recap of the match, where we see the fight through the eyes of the commentators.
     
    And it's over. 
     
    Now, hopefully you caught what made the old CBUB awesome. It wasn't the match ups. It wasn't who won. 
     
    It was the comments. 
     
    And who makes the comments?
     
    You do. 
     
    --------------------------------------------
     
    So, that's it. I've done what I can. The rest, is up to you. 
     
    Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Excelsior!
  14. Marvel Man
    Ladies and Gentlemen! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Today I dive into one of the hardest jobs on the Internet (and by job, I actually mean volunteering. I have yet to be paid!). The job? Working on the Electric Ferret Site, as an Official Reviewer.
     
    Yes. Every little secret, from the end of the year parties, to the staff only section of the site. If you dislike having your mind blown, don't read this blog!
    ---------------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Working for serge!
     
    Okay, first up, a quick Q&A from my audience:
     
    Q. There are people who work on the EF site?!
     

    Treacherous, after a hard Monday morning.
     
    A. Yes. The Electric Ferret site is run by a small army of administrators, moderators, and of course, reviewers. And by army, I mean maybe twenty people (tops).
     
    Q. Sweet! How much do you guys get paid?
     
    A. Oh, serge doesn't pay anyone. Or, if he does, he only pays in "That nice feeling you get for volunteering" currency.
     
    But then again, who wants money? Aren't the best things in life free? So the EF Staff's labor must be the best!
     
    Q. If you aren't paid, why do you work for the EF?
     
    A. I can't answer this for everyone, but I know why I work for serge. He defeated me in battle, but spared my life. As payment, I agreed to come to his site and help review the endless stream of characters.
     
    Q. Yeah... This isn't mindblowing in any way. I'm gonna go see Tarvius's blog...
     
    A. Wait! He doesn't have any posts up yet. Please stay. I'm about to move onto what I actually do in my small corner of the EF. Don't you want to know about how we pick characters to review, and what not?
     
    Q. I'm not really sure I should be answering questions. I am, after all, the Q...
     
    A. Anyways... Let's move on:
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     
    Time: 6 PM
     
    Alright, after a hard day of sleeping, reading comics for free at my nearby comic book shop (the trick is to find a quiet secluded spot), and another failed attempt at finding the Cash Cab, I log onto the EF website. At this point, I check to see if any of my questions in the bug forum have been answered (They aren't), before browsing the other CBUB threads.
     
    Time: 6: 15 PM
     
    Having posted my unique brand of Marvel related humor in as many topics as I could, I then browse through the other sections of the forum. The Artsy one, the Electricferret one, and the RP one. Whenever I have to get to the Image section, I quickly scroll past the FPL section (I usually close my eyes and/or hope that the screams of failed writers won't haunt my dreams all night).
     
    Time: 6:20 PM
     
    At this point, there's not much more to do on the forums. This is when the guilt begins to set in. Guilt from my inbox (yes, I realize I should clean that out; as long as I have three free spaces for messages, I won't), and guilt from my many projects. The RPs that died under my eyes. The FPL character that still resides in the deepest part of my Microsoft Word folder. Etc. Rocked to my core by all this guilt, I meditate on what to do.
     
    Time: 6:21 PM
     
    Having gotten over my guilt, I realize that there is still something I can do. I can review characters! Haven't done it in weeks. Still, I'm sure there's one or two characters waiting approval. I need to help out.
     
    Time: 6:25 PM
     
    Four minutes later, and I have filled out the twelve forms required to access Reviewer Controls. I attatch a copy of my birth certificate (as usual), to an email, then sign in with my thirteen letter password. I am then transported to the secret EF Control Room.
     
    Time: 6:30 PM
     
    Here, I brought my camera to the EF Base. Check it out:
     

    The "serge" Room:
     
    As usual, the room is empty. Still, to speed up his imminent return, there is a stack of cash sitting in the chair (sometimes this causes serge to return).
     

    The Moderator Room:
     
    I usually run into Tarvius here. He doesn't seem to be here today.
     

    The Review Room:
     
    As usual, the room is completely empty. I rarely run into another Reviewer. Also, I see that Tarvius and his fellow Moderators are still trashing the Reviewer Room (they always remind us how we're not really "On the EF staff"). I can tell it's Tarvius by the lack of graffiti, which, if present, indicates that a rogue Admin got bored.
     

    Admin Room:
     
    Speaking of Admins, check it out! I finally got in. Well, not "in" in. But hey, that twenty bucks I gave the bouncer was so worth it. I wonder what it's like when the Admins are in here...
     
    Time: 7:15 PM
     
    Okay, time to get to work. Having had my fun, I go back into the Review Room. Wading through the trash and empty pizza boxes, I reach my desk. A quick prayer to Stan Lee, and an even quicker kiss to the picture of Olvia Wilde I have on desk later, and I am ready to work. This greets me (from today!)
     

     
    900 Pictures???!!! Over 100 characters?! What?!
     
    Time: 7:20 PM
     
    Being the biased guy I am, I naturally check the Comic section first. After checking links here, and stating why that character is being denied there, I move onto the odd section. The Pop Culture one. Here, I find Goths being submitted.
     
    Why?
     
    After a quick click on all the links, I ask myself what type of matches need Goths? I mean, this is the CBUB! We want interesting fights! Action!
     
    Feeling uneasy about the character, I leave it there for other gutsier Reviewers. I then switch to reviewing images.
     
    Time: 9:00 PM
     
    After a hard hour and a half of work, I check on my progress. To my dismay, there are still tons of images! Why?!
     
    Enraged, I head off to YouTube to watch cute cat videos.
     

    Ah.... This is what life is all about...
     
    ... I will probably review more stuff tomorrow...
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
    That's it for today. This is Marvel Man, signing off.
    Until next time, Excelsior!
  15. Marvel Man
    Welcome back ladies and gentlemen! This is Marvel's Corner!.
     
    Today I introduce you to a new segment. The Rise of Electric Ferret Animation Studios!
     
    What is "EF Animation"? Click on the link and find out.
     
    Seriously, click it. 
     
    ...
     
    Did you click it?
     
    ...
     
    Okay. I'm pretty sure you clicked it. Let's get down to it.
    --------------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: EF Animation
     
    So, what is this so called "EF Animation"? 
     
    It is the new arm of the Electric Ferret. The animation arm. It is only natural that the Electric Ferret expand like this. It is what serge would've wanted...
     
    Anyways, animation, as defined by myself after years of research (such as watching cartoons, and animated movies) is just seeing things move, apparently by their own power, even though they normally couldn't. For example, in stop motion animation, you can have pretty much anything appear to move by itself. That's just one type of animation. There are many other ways to do it. Here's the three that are used the most:
     
    The Super Expensive but Awesome Quality Type
     

     
    Yes, the expensive, but awesome looking, Pixar method. It's basically paying hundreds of young enslaved children to work computers. Each little frame is hours and hours of painful, backbreaking labor. Such hit movies, like Toy Story and Wall-e, rocked this medium. 
     
    Pros: Great picture quality. Tis what dreams are made of.
     
    Cons: Hours of hard work. Tons of employees needed. Swimming pools full of cash (Scrooge McDuck style).
     

     
    The Old School Method
     

     
    This is your grandfather, and your father's animation. Where Pixar's way requires advanced computers to work around the clock, this way requires an army of skilled artists working around the clock. Yes, as crazy as it sounds, each frame is drawn by hand. While Disney eventually mastered this medium, in the beginning, cartoon animation was primitive. Often black and white, with storytelling kept to a minimum. As the years progressed, and the technology became better, a new crop of movies mastered this style. I'm talking about the "Lion King", and "Beauty and the Beast"..
     
    Pros: Looked pretty good back in the day. Had some good stories told on it. 
     
    Cons: Army of artists. Hours of work. Tons of paper. Patience. But mostly, an army of artists. 
     

     
    Stop Motion Animation
     
    Ah, here it is. The working man's animation. This one just required a camera, and a hilarious amount of free time. You basically took a picture of an object, barely moved it, then took another picture. You would then repeat this process for a long, long time. When you flipped through all the pictures, it looked like the object was moving by itself. Naturally, the more pictures you took, the better the final product was. Such hits, like Wallace & Gromit, as well as some early Star Wars scenes, really proved what this was about. However, the best example, in my opinion, was Gumby. 
     

     
    Pros: Anyone can do this. Easy to work with. 
     
    Cons: Required hours of hard work. Plus, who had enough time to do this?
     
    -------------------------------------------
     
    As you just saw, the easiest animation is, thanks to various iPhone apps I purchased, the Stop Motion Animation method. It is what Electric Ferret Animation Studios will focus on. This blog, will chronicle its rise to animation power. 
     
    Part 1: Supplies
     
    After serge had instructed me in his EF dream to one day rule the world through a multimedia empire, I got to work on gathering the supplies needed. Armed with a minuscule budget, I realized I would have to make do with what little I had. So, I began...
     
    • First I realized what apps I could use on my iPhone. There's the "iTimelapse App", as well as the "ReelDirector App". Add in the "Slow Mo App" and I have the App store's finest. 
    • Next up, I set up a set. A search through my basement ended with me finding a suitable location, as well as an old teenage mutant ninja playset.
    • Finally, I found suitable characters. Among them, there's a sweet "Limited Edition: Barack Obama Action figure" I got on my trip to DC. Looking through old boxes in my basement, I found plenty of action figures, such as Superman, Batman, Hulk, and Thor. 
     

     
    And so ended my search for supplies. Now a new obstacle awaited me. The story. 
     
    This, I hope, is something my electric ferret comrades can help me with. What sort of creative masterpiece will be the EF Studios' first production? 
     
    Well, whatever it is, it will only help fuel the EF. Join me next time, as my quest for animation continues. Until next time, this is Marvel Man signing off. 
    Excelsior! 
  16. Marvel Man

    Mini Marvels!

    By Marvel Man,

    Welcome ladies & gentlemen! This, is Marvel's Corner!
     
    Now, today's blog isn't really new, but it is interesting and something people who visit the EF forums should check out. What is it? 
     
    Mini-Marvels! And something really stupid that Marvel's doing.
    ----------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Mini Marvels
     
    Now, I'm sure you're asking what is Mini Marvels?
     
    Go ahead, ask.
     
    .....
     
    Well, I'm glad you asked. Mini Marvels are minuture comics, usually found at the back of regular Marvel comics.
     
    What's cool about them, is that the comics feature kid versions of all the Marvel Characters, and are drawn peanuts style.
     
    Before:
     

     
    After:
     

     
    I personally find them very entertaining. Still, I'll let you guys be the judges. Just check a few out:
     

     

     

     

     
    Not only that, but the guy (Chris Giarrusso) also makes his own comic (G-Man):
     
    http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/w...igest_cover.jpg
     
    He also does kid versions of classic Marvel covers. For example, this:
     

     
    Becomes this: 
     

     
    And just in case you want more, go to the official website: http://www.chrisgcomics.com/
     
    Anyways, guess what?
     
    Mini Marvels have been canceled, and replaced. 
     
    Yes, Marvel just did something stupid, proving that nothing's perfect. And what are they being replaced with?
     
    This:
     

    Super Hero Squad.
     
    It started as just a few toys, but is now an animated series, as well as having its own comic:
     
    1st: http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/superherosquad.jpg
    2nd: http://triciahelfer.com/new/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/superherosquad.jpg
    3rd: http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/SHS_HeroUp_OneShot_HeroCover.jpg
     
    Here's some examples:
    http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/w...009/04/shs5.jpg
    http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/w...009/04/shs4.jpg
    http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/w...009/04/shs3.jpg
    http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/w...009/04/shs2.jpg
    http://goodcomics.comicbookresources.com/w...009/04/shs1.jpg
     
    Honestly, I admire anyone who was able to read all those comics. Is it just me, or is that the worst attempt at humor Marvel has ever tried?
     
    I mean, c'mon! Mole Man? Mole Man?! 
     
    Marvel decided that these two were too alike, and canceled Mini Marvels. Am I the only one who finds that stupid?
     
    Oh well. Marvel's acting strange. Very strange. I blame Disney (I have no proof, but I've never trusted that mouse...) That, and the fact that Super Squad's making more money...
     
    Anyways, that's all for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off.
    Excelsior!
  17. Marvel Man
    Welcome back ladies and gentlemen! This is Marvel's Corner.
     
    First of all, Happy Halloween everyone! Now's the time of the year when children are free to knock on random houses, and receive free candy. Did I mention that you can dress up as anything? Add in all those costume parties for those too old to trick or treat, and you have a pretty awesome holiday. 
     
    But in comics, where people can dress up as anything everyday, costumes have to be pretty awesome for anyone to notice. That's why I made this list. A list of noteworthy and unique costumes. So, before you go out this night, check it out. Enjoy!
     
    -------------------------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Top 10 Costumes
     
    Note: Before I begin, the following aren't the most useful, iconic, or even scariest. They're simply the most interesting. If anyone comes to your house dressed like this, you better hand over all your candy (and maybe some cash and/or precious jewels).
     
    Honorable Mention: Batman/Superman
     
    Now, I know I said that this list wasn't based on iconic-ness, but these two clearly are. Batman and Superman's look? These things are so well known, that I doubt there has been a Halloween without kids in these costumes (I'll admit it. Despite my bias for all things Marvel, I too was once went trick or treating as Batman). Any costume list without these two should be ignored. Anyways, now that I mentioned them, we can move on. 
     
    10. Iron Man

     
    By now, after the Iron Man 1 and 2 movies, pretty much everyone knows Iron Man's story. Billionaire Tony Stark loved to build weapons, sleep with women, and drink. After getting captured by communi-... I mean, terrorists, Tony reformed, built a superpowered suit, and become Iron Man, a superhero who loves to beat down criminals, sleep with women, and drink (Big change?). And what a suit it was! Not only does it serve to keep him alive, it can also fly, lift a good 50 tons (at least), and has more weapons than Cold War Era USSR.
     
    Of course, it takes a lot more than a fancy suit to get on this list. Luckily, Tony apparently, has a small army of slightly different suits. There was his, underwater suit, his Hulk-buster suit, his War Machine suit, his Thor-buster suit, etc. 
     
    Heck, what type of person sees Thor in action, and still builds a Thor-buster suit? 
     
    Tony, you got guts. 
     
    9. Mogo

     
    The Green Lanterns are an elite group of superpowered cops, who wield the strongest weapon in the DC Universe, a green power ring. Now, as a rule, to be a Green Lantern, you must be among your species' elite. You need creativity, courage, and responsibility. 
     
    Now, I don't know much about the Earth or planetology (word?), but most planets I've seen do not strike me as heroic. Or, villainous. Or, even alive (Which is also a requirement).
     
    But something about Mogo must have gotten the Green Lanterns' attention, since he is a Green Lantern. However, as a rule, all Green Lanterns must also have the GL logo somewhere on their costume. Being a planet, how in the world would Mogo get around this (pun intended)? Call in those guys from Design Star (Not that I watch that show or anything... I- uhh... watch football)? Get tons of spandex?
     
    Mogo said no to all these. 
     
    He then grew a logo. 
     
    Yes. That huge logo, is made up of trees, shrubs, and other green things. And it can be seen from space. 
     
    Look at a picture of Earth, and see what you can spot. See a huge amount of green? See any man made structure (other than the Great Wall)?
     
    Mogo, that's impressive. 
     
    8. Steel

     
    Steel, also known as John Henry Irons, was once a wealthy weapon designer, at least, until he was captured by terrorists, and forced to build weapons for them. He built a superpowered suit, and become Iron Man!
     
    Wait, no, that's not it. 
     
    Instead, after finding out that the weapons he designed would kill people (seriously? It's a weapon! That's what it's for!), he faked his death and traveled to Metropolis. Earning his daily bread by the sweat of his brow, John lived a humble life for a while. 
     
    Then Superman came in. 
     
    Saving a construction worker is probably a slow Wednesday for Superman. But for John, getting saved by Supes was a life changing experience. After Supes told him to live a life worth saving, John decided that he'd be a better man, like Superman. 
     
    Of course, a few days later, Superman was killed by Doomsday. 
     
    When chaos began to consume the city, John built a  bad@$$ suit, grabbed a hilariously large hammer, and went out to kick butt. Calling himself "The Man of Steel", John was the least douchiest of the Superman wannabes that showed up after Supes' death (It helps that the others were an emotionless krypton robot thing, an evil Cyborg, and Superboy, back when he wore a leather jacket and had sunglasses). His name is later shortened to Steel, for legal purposes (Superman sued).
     
    For not having superpowers, but still going out in Metropolis, Steel earns his spot. 
     
    7. Penance

     
    Almost no one knew who Speedball was, but his tragic story starts with Speedball as he once was. A happy go lucky superhero who occasionally crossed over to more popular heroes' comic books. At least, until he, and a bunch of other obscure heroes banded together as the New Warriors!
     
    Sadly, a few years later, these heroes would cause a little thing called, the Stamford disaster (is that what it's called?), when they attacked Nitro, a bad guy who can explode. Nitro, of course, exploded. 
     
    Pumped up on super-steroids, Nitro's explosion was huge. He took out all of Speedball's teammates, a nearby school, etc. It was only due to Speedball's powers that he even survived. 
     
    For some unknown reason, the explosion also affected Speedball's powers. They were more powerful. Less innocent. They were now triggered... by pain. 
     
    Assigned to the new Thunderbolt team, Speedball was put in a twisted suit, deigned to take advantage of his new power. The suit has some 600 spikes, one for each person killed in Stamford. These provide the pain needed to activate his power.
     
    Yes. That freaky looking suit is a chamber of pain. 
     
    Speedball's transformation was complete. He was now, Penance!
     
    *lightning*
     
    For having such a hardcore suit, Penance earns his spot. 
     
    6. Stilt Man

     
    Not much to say here. Inventor builds a suit that takes advantage of stilts. He then commits crime... On stilts!
     
    Later reforms. Fights crime... On stilts!
     
    Finally killed by the Punisher...
     
    Still, wow. The guy fails so much and so often, but he just doesn't stop. You've got to admire that. 
     
    5. Symbiotes

     
    So, let's pretend you're Spider Man. 
     
    Cool, huh?
     
    Anyways, now that you've been sent to Battleworld, to battle for the all powerful Beyonder's amusement, you'll need a new suit. The one you have is made of cheap cloth, and is easily torn. 
     
    Luckily, you've just stumbled into a secret lab! 
     
    Not only that, but there's a costume machine, right there! What are the odds of finding one of those? I'm sure it's not anything dangerous. I mean, come on. If you can't find a costume machine on Battleworld, where can you?!
     
    Everything will be fine. 
     
    *A few months later*
     
    OMG! It wasn't a costume! It was a f****** alien! And it's been feeding off you this whole time! Quickly, to the church! You need sound. Really loud sound. 
     
    *Even more months later*
     
    Crap. 
     
    What are the odds that your symbiotic costume would fall into the hands of some crazy reporter who blames you for everything that went wrong in his life. Well, it could be worse. It's not like he has all your powers, or something.
     
    He does?
     
    Well, can he be detected by your spider sense?
     
    He can't? 
     
    And he knows your secret identity?!
     
    AAAHHH!!!
     
    *Even more months later*
     
    Man, I am so glad Venom is in jail. That dude is craaazy.
     
    What? 
     
    He's escaped? And a new, red version of the symbiote has appeared? And it's attached to a serial killer?!
     
    AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
     
    *Years later*
     
    Boy, I wonder what happened to Venom. Did he die, or something?
     
     Wait, what?
     
    The symbiote bonded to the Scorpion? And he's working for Norman Osborne?! AND I USED TO BE MARRIED?!!!
     
    AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!
     
    4. Captain America/Wonder Woman

     
    Now, like I said, this list isn't based on a specific category. However, if it was patriotic, it'd be these two battling it out for first. 
     
    Diana was a skilled amazon, who went into Man's world, to fight for good and stand up for women! Now, why she picked a metal bikini, I don't know (nor do I complain). However, it is extremely patriotic.
     
    Then there's Cap. The symbol of World War II USA. Powerful. Great leader. Invincible. 
     
    And what a costume to match! If anyone else wore it, you'd probably laugh. A huge A on the forehead? Wings on the side? What do those even do? Make him faster, or something? 
     
    Still, it's Cap. Captain America. He will remind you that that A on his forehead doesn't stand for France! It stands for America! USA! USA!
     
    3. Hulk 

     
    Oh snap! The Hulk is in the house! Do I need to explain anything about him? He's the Hulk. He goes from frail, and puny Bruce Banner, to ripped beyond comprehension Hulk. Seriously, look at the Hulk. He's got muscles on top of muscles. 
     
    With an extra layer of muscles on top of that. 
     
    Seriously, in our Universe, guys who work out look at pictures of Arnold Swchazenager (Can anyone really spell that? Seriously, imagine being in kindergarten and having to spell that?!), well in Marvel, I'm sure the kids look at the Hulk. Then they probably cry, since no amount of exercise would get them to that level. 
     
    However, what they can get, is a sweet pair of Hulk pants! Yes. His iconic purple pants. Why purple? What size are they? Is it just because of the comics code that he didn't go Dr. Manhattan on everyone?
     
    Either way, Hulk's look is pretty awesome. Whether he's slugging it out with the army, fighting the Avengers, or just kicking the Abomination around, the Hulk's indestructible pants are ever present. 
     
    2. Everyone from Asgard

     
    Look at that picture. All those colorful costumes. It's exactly the type of costumes a god would wear. Why?
     
    Because they're gods! Who will get angry at these guys?
     
    Look at Thor.
    http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/1277/28403966.jpg
     
    What's with the vest? 
     
    Or Loki?
    http://media.comicvine.com/uploads/0/77/85...-gods_super.jpg
     
    ... Actually, I can't make fun of him. Not with that hat on. It's just too awesome! Aaahhhh!! My eyes! Too awesome!
     
    1. Power Girl/Emma Frost/Witchblade/Women in Comics

     
    Wow. After looking for candidates for this list, I realized something shocking. Women in comics are not at all portrayed in a realistic fashion. It's like comic book readers don't look for intelligent women. They wa-....
     
    ... 
     
    What was that?
     
    Oh, sorry guys. A member of my staff (a lady), just got on my computer. 
     
    What's this about sexism?
     
    ... Hmm...
     
    That's crazy. I mean, look at all those strong women who don't have a supermodel body. There's...
     
    Big Bertha?
    http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3...1_June_2005.jpg
     
    Oh wait, never mind. She actually is a supermodel. She can switch her body from super large to super thin.
     
    http://media.comicvine.com/uploads/0/77/62...son02_super.jpg
     
    So, I guess all comic book women wear revealing costumes?
     
    I guess so. 
     
    Any guys complaining?
     
    Nope. All right, I guess that's the list. Comic book women in general take the cake. 
     
    That's all for tonight. This is Marvel Man, signing off. 
    Excelsior! 
     
    And Happy Halloween! 
  18. Marvel Man
    Look alive people! You're at Marvel's Corner!
     
    *cool music*
     
    Yes, today I have great news. Marvel's getting back in the game.
     
    What game?
     
    The animated cartoon game.
    ----------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Cartoon
     
    As you all know, Marvel hasn't made a cartoon in recent years (except for the Wolverine one), and has instead concentrated on Animated Movies. Well now things are changing. Here's a picture of the new series which is set to air on Cartoon Network.
     

     
    Yes, they aren't too intimidating, or too tough looking, but it's something, right?
     
    Anyways, I'm not complaining. Check out the cast.
     
    • Shawn Ashmore (X-Men films) as Iceman
    • LeVar Burton (Ali, Roots) as Rhodey
    • Taye Diggs (Private Practice) as the Black Panther
    • Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street) as Dormammu
     
    • Greg Grunberg (Heroes) as Ant-Man
    • Mark Hamill (Star Wars) as the Red Skull
    • Lena Headey (Sarah Connor Chronicles) as the Black Widow
    • Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galactica) as Sif
     
    • Cheryl Hines (Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Ugly Truth) as Stardust
    • Wayne Knight (Seinfeld) as Egghead
    • James Marsters (Smallville, Buffy The Vampire Slayer) as Mr. Fantastic
    • Jennifer Morrison (Star Trek, House) as the Wasp
     
    • Adrian Pasdar (Heroes) as Hawkeye
    • Kevin Sorbo (Hercules, Meet The Spartans) as Ka-Zar
    • George Takei (Heroes, Star Trek) as Galactus
    • Michelle Trachtenberg (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gossip Girl) as the Valkyrie
     
    • The cast is also joined by comics legend Stan Lee in a recurring role as the Mayor of Super Hero City
     
    How awesome is that? Mark Hamill as the Red Skull? Stan Lee?
     
    Well, that's all for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off.
     
    Note: I am now the #1 Most Viewed Blog. YYYYEEEESSSS!!!!
    I want to thank all my readers for all the support. Without you, this would be really stupid (me writing stuff & posting it on the Internet). Thanks for reading...
  19. Marvel Man
    Alright, I have some more good news to tell (Don't I always :-). Here it is:
     
    Marvel's Corner has gotten 33 views!
     
    *crickets*
     
    ..... And, that means that I've just moved past Boston_Celtic's blog and become the 2nd most viewed blog!
     
    *crowd roars* *I stand up and take a bow* *The crowd goes even crazier, and begin to shower me with flowers, chocolates, & women's underwear*
     
    Yes, yes, please calm down. Miss, is this yours? Oh, I'm sorry.... Sir.....
     
    Anyways, if you're wondering who's #1, that'd be Rakai Thwei's blog (with only one entry?! Is there no justice in the world?), with 7(insert number) views. Still, he deserves it, great guy.
     
    *crowd moderately claps*
     
    Well, enough iddle talk, let's move on to today's topic (or rant).
    -----------------
     
    Today's Topic: Twitter
     
    Alright, can someone, anyone, explain just what's so great about Twitter?
     
    For those that don't know what Twitter is, google it.
     
    *crowd boos*
     
    Alright, (I use these words a lot, don't I?), basically, you write what you're doing (in 140 characters or less), and post it on the Internet. These posts are called Tweets (which explain the birds..... Sort of...), and you can follow people's Tweets.
     
    Now, I don't know about you, but hearing what *insert name* had for breakfast, is not something I'd be interested in. And why in the world would I write my thoughts, actions, rants, etc, and post them on the Internet?! What kind of nut has so much time?
     
    What makes this worst (and why I even bother typing this), is a story I recently read (in Time Magazine, of all places. Time. As in, the respected Time).
     
    Basically, the cover of the issue was an iPhone with a Tweet on it, describing the issue's content. To make matters worse, the article was mostly about how Twitter is changing the world, and its future.
     
    I nearly lost my lunch after reading it (luckily, I was in the bathroom at the time).
     
    How can people take this seriously?! It's just a fad. It's the spur of the moment. It's like wanting to read Twilight, you don't want to, but everyone thinks it's great.
     
    Man, I hate Twitter (not real hate, just inspirational hate. The type that inspired me to write this, and the angry letter Time will soon recieve. It'll have plenty of frowny faces, as well as bolder words :-( )
     
    Which reminds me, check out this new face I made up (I'm probably not the one who actually made it up. :-(
     
    ^,,,,^
    . • •
    (00)
     
    It's a pig.
     
    .......
     
    Note to Self: Get a Hobby.
     
    Anyways, thanks for reading. That's it for today.
     
    Excelsior!
     
    *Marvel's Corner was filmed before a live audience*
  20. Marvel Man

    First Entry

    By Marvel Man,

    Well, so begins the new Age of Marvel! The last one died with Spider Man: One More Day.
     
    Man, I hate that book.
     
    As you can tell, this blog is basically me talking about anything I want to. I'll try to keep things interesting but c'mon, you're reading this. You're obviously bored. Any old joke/pop cultural refrence will get you to smile.
     
    Pull my finger.
     
    *crowd laughs*
     
    Marvel's Note: My blog also has a laugh track.
     
    Okay, time to actually write something.
    --------------------
    Today's topic: The New CBUB.
     
    Well, after a long wait, the promise land (or a Beta Version of it) has finally arrived. I'll be frank with it.
     
    Marvel's Note: Where did the term "Frank" come from? That makes little sense. Why not be George about something? Meh, back on topic.
     
    Honestly, I like it. It's amazing that anyone has enough time to do this, but serge did it!
     
    *crowd laughs*
     
    Nah, I'm joking. Serge's awesome. He does this for free too. That's just pure skill. The forum works great, and it's very easy to use. I also like the whole, have an Avatar/Sig thing. I also like this whole, have your own blog thing (as you can tell). Still, the 2vs2, 1vs2, etc, is the actual change. I made a quick match to see how it worked (Sinister Six vs Super Skrull vs Iron Man). Works great.
     
    I'm also currently adding a character (Jack of Hearts), but I can't find a good image.
     
    Marvel's Rant: Darn you Bendis! You killed him off before he had a chance! Why?!
     
    The only thing I don't like is the way I can't tell if snatch has new comments. Still, this is just me being lazy. I'll get over it. I got over Red Hulk....
     
    Marvel's Rant: Jeph Loeb. I. Will. Find. You. You better watch out!! Rrrrrr!!
     
    Also, I'm hoping we get the old graphics (background) back. I'm used to seeing it, so it might just be me not used to, or willing, to give it a chance.
     
    Well, so ends my first rant/blog. So, until I find something else to write about, this is Marvel Man signing off. Mar the Power Cosmic be with you....
  21. Marvel Man
    Alright, listen up, my blog has gotten 10 views, which means one thing.....
     
    Time to party!!
     
    Woo! *throws confetti*
     
    Oh yeah..... Woo.....
     
    Hmm.....
     
    Throwing a party over the Internet is not as easy as I thought it'd be... Hmm...
     
    What now? Well, I guess I could actually write something productive....
    ------------------
    Today's Topic: Global Warming
     
    That's right, today's blog is for tree huggers, and hipies (spelling?).
     
    Marvel's Note: Seriously, how does one make hipie plural? Or is it spelled hipy? Hmm...
     
    Anyways, I want to make it clear that this is a real threat. Maybe even bigger than-.... *gasp* DC Comics!
     
    *scary music plays (on a piano, of course)*
     
    Still, enough joking, our planet's in danger, and I've done some research. Here are some of my own tips:
     
    GREEN TIPS
     
    1. Don't drive.
    I know this sounds like something that would be impossible, but through sheer determination, it can be done. Imagine what would happen, if we switched all our cars for horses and buggies. Problem solved!
     
    2. Bikes.
    Alright, if tip #1 failed, tip #2 should help. Ride a bike instead of riding car. Not only will this help with the Carbon Dioxide problem, but it could also help with the growing obesity rate!
     
    *comedic drums*
     
    3. Recycle.
    Alright, my next tip will definetly help you (or at least, make you chuckle in front of your computer). Here are the three Rs, to tip #3. Recycle. Repeat. Recycle again.
     
    By Recycle, I don't mean just paper. I mean, recycle everything possible! That's the problem with current recycling, it ain't enough. Switch to Extreme Recyclying.
     
    > Don't stop at newspapers, recycle legal papers, birth certificates, taxes, etc.
     
    > Wear clothes over and over again, and once the clothes are too small, use them for rags. Once they begin to fall apart, sow them together into a great quilt! Just keep using them.
     
    > Recylce bottles, batteries, and pretty much anything else. Despite popular belief, everything can be recycled. EVERYTHING.
     
    4. Alternate power.
    We all know gasoline and other fossil fuels are bad, but there's nothing else available, right?
     
    WRONG!
     
    Dead wrong.
     
    We have solar, hydro, nuclear, etc. Heck, we have that energizer bunny! Someone should just hunt that thing down, and BAM! Problem solved.
     
    Actually, I now declare that my one mission. I shall find that rabbit! I cannot fail!
     
    Gotta go.
     
    Marvel's Corner is written and produced by Marvel Man in partnership with Marvel Comics.
  22. Marvel Man

    Marvel did what?!

    By Marvel Man,

    Welcome, ladies & gentlemen!
     
    To MARVEL'S CORNER!!!
     
    *crowd does the wave*
     
    Yep, I've got a great blog topic today. Marvel's own, Non-Battle Pope!!!
     
    Woo!
     
    But before that, I have a quick announcement.
     
    I'M THE KING!
     
    Of what, you may ask? In what silly world, you may say.
     
    Well, in this one. You see, I am officially the most viewed, top rated, most commented, and top blogger!
     
    Let all before me cower! Muhahahaha!!!!
     
    No, seriously, I'm getting off topic. Thanks guys, and hope you enjoy the blog.
    ------------------------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Marvel's Non Battle Pope
     
    Presenting, the most powerful pope in Marvel comics....
     

    Pope John Paul II!!!!
     
    Yes, surprisingly, quite a while back, Marvel decided that the Pope was way too awesome and needed a comic. And so, the wonderful adventures of the Pope began!
     
    Sadly, only one comic was published/made, and Paul was somehow able to avoid spiders, radiation, and evolution. Still, don't let that fool you.
     
    This one comic had assasination attempts, bears, and WWII. For those who were not lucky enough to get this comic, here's a recap of the entire thing (including scans, & comments).
     
    http://www.4thletter.net/2009/06/marvels-n...rt-i/#more-3764
     
    Anyways, that's all for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off.
    Excelsior!
  23. Marvel Man
    Welcome back to Marvel's Corner!
     
    Now, today I'm starting a new segment here on my blog, it's called, the Video of the Week. This week just happened to be crazy. Anyways, I won't waste your time with small talk, WATCH THIS!
     

     
    I laughed so hard...
     
    Anyways, that's it for today. This is Marvel Man, signing off.
  24. Marvel Man
    Welcome! This is Marvel's Corner!
     
    We are now in 2010! Not only that, but in this post I declare war against Australia! Join my crusade! You can help by clicking on this blog and/or telling your friends to click on this blog too. Woo!
     
    ----------------------------------------
    Today's Topic: Australia & Black Panther
     
    Alright, we all know what Australia is. It looks like this:
     

     
    ... Wait... Hold on...
     
    Darn America's Public School System! 
     
    Anyways, my assistants tell me that this is Australia:
     

     
    I just thought it was a movie with Wolverine & Nicole Kidman. Still, that matters very little.
     
    What matters is this:
     
    Tonight, I use my Marvel powers to declare war on Australia! CBUB Members! FPL Members! Join me!
     

     
    As for why, it has something to do with this guy:
     

     
    Black Panther's was the first African comic book hero (Wikipedia can't lie!). Plus, he's not one of those throw away heroes either. You know when you run into Black Panther.
     
    Smart as Reed Richards?
     
    Check. 
     
    Awesome Ninja Moves?
     
    Check. 
     
    Has his own country?
     
    Check. 
     
    Married to Storm?
     
    Double Check.
     

     
    Naturally, when Marvel decided to make an animated series, with Stan Lee as a voice, the world stopped! And then Australia moved in!
     
    That's right, an awesome animated series has been claimed by Australia. The Black Panther animated series airs only in Australia, with no date set for USA broadcast. We must resort to watching short blurry clips on YouTube.
     
    ....
     
    Wait.
     
    Really?
     
    Alright, my assistants are telling me that we don't even get that. All we have been able to get (after two weeks of negotiation) is the intro. 
     
    Sadly, this intro is pretty awesome. Has anyone heard of John Romita Jr?
     

     
    Alright, that's it for today. Until next time, this is Marvel Man, signing off. I'm off to Australia!
     

  25. Marvel Man
    Alright people of the CBUB. Today's blog is purely & simply, a Man-Blog. 
     
    Sorry ladies, but today we'll be talking about barely clothe women in comic books (which is most women).
     
    Marvel Note: I'd do a barely clothe men blog, but that's not how I roll.
     
    Anyways, due to the large amount of women in comic books, today, I'll stay focused on Marvel. 
     
    Note: Today's Segment is Man-13. Men under 13 (or those that have yet to feel an attraction to a female/still believe in cooties) might not feel so comfortable. Still, this blog's tasteful (or tries to be), so women/kids can probably enjoy it as well. 
     
    --------------------------
    Today's Topic: Top 20 Marvel Babes
     
    Marvel Note: This blog was originally Top 5, but there was no way I could pick only 5. So it grew, and grew, until I finally reached 500. Deciding that it was extremely stupid to list every single one, I decided to do only 20.
     
    But enough notes! Crack open some beef jerky, grab a seat, & enjoy: 
     
    MARVEL MAN'S TOP 20 MARVEL BABES
     
    At #20, we have.....
     
    20. Silver Sable
     
    http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/marvelda...r_Sable_008.jpg
     
    This woman may lack super powers, but she makes up with all her high tech weponry/training. She's a tough mercenary, and will do any job if you're willing to pay.
     
    ..... Man, that came out wrong.
     
    Pros: Great shape, Silver Hair, Uses Guns
     
    Cons: Lacks a special something.  
     
    19. Mystique
     
    http://www.femininebeauty.info/i/mystique.jpg
     
    This fine mutant's a very dangerous person. Not to be trusted. Still, this is a beauty contest, and with her ability to shapeshift, I can totally overlook morals.
     
    Pros: Shapeshift into anyone
     
    Cons: Blue (altough, to some, that ain't bad), Evil (again, to each his own).
     
    18. Wasp
     
    http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff277/b...008/TheWasp.jpg
     
    Founding Avenger, successful business woman, etc. Her resume is as long as Batman's fan list. Okay, maybe not as long. Darn batfanboys....
     
    Pros: Great Person, (I'm not that shallow).
     
    Cons: Hair, once married to Hank Pym
     
    17. Elektra
     
    http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_eQ5BBnWj_T8/SEoB...elektra_400.jpg
     
    Hot ninja babe. Psycho, but hot. Nuff said. 
     
    Pros: Barely clothe (always a plus), ninja
     
    Cons: Psycho, Dies too often
     
    16. Black Widow
     
    http://coronacomingattractions.com/sites/d...rvel_comics.jpg
     
    Secret Agent AND wears leather? 
     
    Pros: Look up ^^^^^^
     
    Cons: Same as Silver Sable. Too military-ish. 
     
    15. Jean Grey
     
    http://www.geocities.com/jeanxlogan/jean.jpg
     
    The first X-Babe. Sure, she died several times, but everytime she came back, she looked just as stunning as ever.
     
    Pros: Intelligent, powerful, nice hair
     
    Cons: Dies too much. Has a cheating heart (Wolverine?)
     
    14. Rogue
     
    http://looknoreallylook.files.wordpress.co...rogue-1-big.jpg
     
    What's not to like. She has that streak of white in her hair, a great personality, & that southern accent. Not too bad. 
     
    Pros: Accent, Streak
     
    Cons: You can't touch her. Yeah. Really throws off the mood.
     
    13. Enchantress
     
    http://xrayvision.today.com/files/2009/02/...ntress_0035.jpg
     
    Evil Asgardian Goddess. Goddess of what? Goddess of seducting men!
     
    Oh yeah.
     
    Pros: Blonde (I'm bias), has magical powers to seduce men (does she even need them?!)
     
    Cons: Only desires Thor. Everyone else is simply a tool (which wouldn't be too bad).
     
    12. Storm
     
    http://z.about.com/d/comicbooks/1/0/W/R/storm.jpg
     
    This lady's got it all. Intelligence, looks, powers, AND is portrayed by Halle Berry. Darn you Black Panther. Darn you. 
     
    Pros: Berry, looks, great leader, hair
     
    Cons: Married (yeah, that's a horrible excuse, since plenty of other women on this list are married, but still.)
     
    11. Ms. Marvel
     
    http://media.comicvine.com/uploads/0/77/76...arvel_super.jpg
     
    A proud Avenger. Great leader, blonde (plus, at least for me), and she's not married! Ms. Marvel, prepare to become Mrs. Marvel (*hint* *wink*)
     
    Pros: Blonde, powerful, great leader
     
    Cons: Worked with Tony Stark during Civil War (Cap died because of that). 
     
    Marvel's Note: Yep. That's a horrible excuse for a Con.
     
    10. Mary Jane
     
    http://www.comicvine.com/mary-jane/29-1338...858/105-717897/
     
    Spider Man's wife (or ex). The lady may not have powers, ..... Heck, she's not even a superhero, but she definetly has the looks. She's a Supermodel!!
     
    Pros: Supermodel, red haired, great bod (depends on artist, but most do her justice)
     
    Cons: Not a hero
     
    9. She Hulk
     

     
    The green skinned beauty is a great person, as well as very seductive. Many men have fallen prey to her greenish charm (Juggernaut, Hercules, John Jameson, 99% of Marvel, etc)
     
    Pros: Easy, smart, nice hair (I like the green hair look).
     
    Cons: Easy (not always a good thing), Green (not always a good thing), and Hulk's cousin. If you break her heart, HULK SMASH!
     
    8. Shanna the She Devil
     

     
    Barely clothe Jungle Girl. Oh, and she's blonde. Plus, she has great.... Uhh... Great spirit....
     
    Yeah, that's what I was gonna say....
     
    Pros: Barely clothe (even among those listed, she's practically nude), blonde, 
     
    Cons: Lives in a dangerous Jungle. Also, married to Ka-Zar (darn you Ka-Zar!)
     
    7. Polaris
     

     
    I've always had a soft spot for Polaris. Maybe it's the green hair, or her amazing.... Powers, but she's a great character. 
     
    Pros: Green haired, intelligent
     
    Cons: Magneto's daughter?! Break her heart, & thou shall feel his wrath!!!
     
    6. Black Cat
     

     
    Leather. Cat. Seductive (Spidey was married, & he still couldn't resist). Rich. This lady's got it all.
     
    Pros: Look up
     
    Cons: Hair (wait? What am I saying?! Her hair's a Pro!)
     
    5. Emma Frost
     

     
    Evil yet hot. Blonde. A wicked person. She's forbidden, which makes you crave her more! Add in the fact that she barely dresses (and what she wears is very.... Seductive...).
     
    Pros: Hot. Just hot.
     
    Cons: Plays with your mind. Very painful (but totally worth it).
     
    4. Scarlet Witch
     

     
    Another character I've had a soft spot for. Darn you Magneto. What's in your genes that make your daughters look the way they do? 
     
    Pros: Hair, personality, powerful
     
    Cons: Crazy. Magneto will rip you limb from limb if you do something.....
     
    3. Invisible Woman
     

     
    First woman in Marvel history. She's had 2 (or was it 3) kids, yet her waist is the size of a gamecube disk. Very beautiful. 
     
    Pros: Blonde, smart, hot
     
    Cons: Married
     
    2. Psylocke
     

     
    Dang. Where to start? Seductive. A ninja. Asian. Hot. Hot. (That's not a typo. She's that hot).
     
    Pros: Everything. 
     
    Cons: ..... Can't think of anything. 
     
    And so, we finally reach #1. After all those beauties, who could it possible be?! It's.... It's....
     
    1. Power Girl
     

     
    So what if she's not a Marvel character. She's got it all (and a little extra. Hehe...) 
     
    Pros: Two reasons (.... Not that!) 1. Blonde. 2. ..... Well endowned.....
     
    Cons: She's a DC character. Why?!
    --------------
     
    And that's it for today. All these were my personal opinions. Most were simply for laughs. Hope you enjoyed it. 
     
    This is Marvel Man, signing off. May the Power Cosmic be with you....
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