Press Release for Anime Punch!

April 8, 2009

Anime Punch! announces Mushi-Pro secretary as guest

COLUMBUS, OH - April 7, 2009

Haruko Nogawa worked for over a decade as a personal secretary to the legendary Osamu Tezuka, the man granted the title of "God of Manga". This weekend at Anime Punch, an anime convention in Columbus, Ohio, she will be sharing her experiences as part of the Tezuka panel hosted by staff of the convention. Although she is unfamiliar with American fandom, and has never been to a convention before, she is excited to talk about her time with Tezuka at Mushi Productions. She will be providing both professional and personal insight to a man who practically founded anime and many of the traditions we still see today. For most American fans this will be a once in a lifetime experience.

ABOUT OSAMU TEZUKA:
Osamu Tezuka was born on November 3, 1928 in Toyonaka City, in Osaka. A frail, skinny child growing up, he was teased ruthlessly by his classmates. Turning to his mother for comfort, he found support and inspiration in her and her love for the Takarazuka Theatre, an all-female theatre troupe.

After surviving the horrors of World War II, Tezuka began work as a manga artist, creating such classics as Astro Boy, Princess Knight (known in Japan as Ribon no Kashi), and Kimba the White Lion. Throughout the 1960's, he began his famous studio Mushi Productions, and is credited as having the first full-length anime on television in Japan, known as Astro Boy. The infamous episode of Astro Boy known as Dolphin Civilization is also credited as the highest-rated program in Japanese history, if not the world.

He is known as "The God of Manga" not only for his prolific contribution, but also for his quality. He is known for such acclaimed works as Adolf, Buddha, Black Jack, Apollo's Song, Phoenix, Unico, and Dororo.
Osamu Tezuka died on February 9, 1989 of stomach cancer. His death was in the same month as the Showa Emperor Hirohito, and is it said that his death was such an impact that it took away from the Emperor's death.

ABOUT ANIME PUNCH!: Known as "The Armageddicon", Anime Punch! (http://www.animepunch.org) is attempting to provide a completely new convention experience. While keeping the existing convention framework intact, A.P. prides itself on having the most unique programming around. A.P. strives to strike perfect balance between the most intellectual panels and discussions with the wildest events and most fun atmosphere of any convention yet. We promise to take any fan's suggestion and do our best to make it happen!

Anime Punch 2009
URL: http://www.animepunch.org
Info@animepunch.org
April 10 - 12, 2009
Doubletree Worthington/Columbus (614) 885-3334
Columbus, Ohio
$35 at the door.

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