At the annual ComicsPro meeting, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund (CBLDF) announced a brand new Board of Directors for the organization. Replacing Top Shelf’s Chris Staros as President is Chris Powell, general Manager of Lone Star Comics. Chris is the first retailer to hold the position of President in the history of the organization. Taking Staros’ seat on the Board of Directors is Larry Marder.
“It’s been an honor to serve on the Board of Directors of the CBLDF,” Staros says, “but as Top Shelf has grown, I find myself not having the time to support the day-to-day activities of the Fund in the way that I used to, and, of course, that’s the signal that it’s time to move on, and pass the torch on to others ready to lead the charge. And now, with Chris Powell as the new President and Larry Marder joining the Board, I know that the Fund will have some fresh energy to devote to the cause. So, while I won’t be on the Board, I’ll always support the CBLDF, as it’s still a cause I truly believe in.”
Setting goals for his Presidency of the organization, Powell said in a prepared statement, “The Fund will continue to grow and evolve, finding new and innovative ways to support comic fans, creators, and sellers. We will increase our use of 21st century technology in our mission and fundraising work. We will increase our outreach to new and current members, and increase our ability to share news and information about the ongoing fight to protect the First Amendment rights we all depend upon to do business.”
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund’s board members are: Joe Ferrara, Vice-President; Milton Griepp, Treasurer; Louise Nemschoff, Secretary; Peter David; Neil Gaiman, Steve Geppi, Paul Levitz, and Larry Marder.
