New Annual Award to Recognize 'Humanitarian of the Year'

LOS ANGELES, CA (August 23, 2010) – The Hero Initiative, the charitable organization dedicated to helping veteran comic creators in medical or financial need, is honoring one of comics' greatest gentlemen with a special award in his name.

The Dick Giordano Humanitarian of the Year Award will make its debut at the Harvey Awards Banquet at the Baltimore Comicon Aug. 28-29. Giordano, who passed away in early 2010, was part of Hero Initiative's Board of Directors. He was also a legendary artist, a guiding force at Charlton Comics and DC Comics for many years, a mentor to his colleagues, and a friend to all who knew him. His legacy epitomizes the caring and commitment Hero Initiative strives to achieve. In honor of Dick, The Dick Giordano Humanitarian of the Year Award will recognize one person in comics each year who has demonstrated the generosity and integrity Dick brought to the charity and to the comic book community at large.

"So many people have referred to Dick as 'The Great Gentleman of Comics', and I'm sure he'd love to see his name and legacy carried on, especially in such a wonderful way that honors others who have shown kindness and generosity," said Pat Bastienne, Giordano's longtime friend and co-worker and now the executor of Giordano's estate. "If Dick were here, he'd raise a Rob Roy and toast the idea."

"As both a fan and a friend of Dick Giordano, I'm honored that this award bearing his name will be given out at the Baltimore convention" said Baltimore Comicon owner/operator Marc Nathan. "We're pleased to be a part of keeping Dick's everlasting legacy going."