Prism Comics, which supports GLBT comics, creators and readers, is hosting a program of GLBT comic events including four panels, a mixer and silent auction, creator signings, portfolio review and a “Young Heroes” party at the San Diego Comic-Con International convention at the San Diego Convention Center from July 22 to 26.

“San Diego Comic-Con continues to be the best way for Prism to reach the LGBT comics audience,” said Ted Abenheim, events chair of Prism Comics. “Our presence has had a small but significant influence on the comics industry and it’s gratifying to see.”

The program starts with “Tipping Point for LGBT Portrayals in Comics,” a panel discussion in room 32AB on Thursday, July 23, at 4 p.m. Panelists will discuss how GLBT issues have taken a central place in the cultural zeitgeist and how this is being illustrated in comics: What is the longterm significance of first-time lesbian headliners Batwoman and The Question in Detective Comics, and is their apearance an isolated event or a tipping point in the acceptance of GLBT characters? David Stanley (Prism co-president) moderates with panelists Greg Rucka (Detective Comics), Marc Andreyko (Manhunter), Judd Winick (Pedro and Me), José Villarrubia (The Mirror of Love), Scott Allie (editor, Dark Horse Comics, Buffy Season 8), Mimi Cruz (retailer, Night Flight Comics, Salt Lake City, UT), Perry Moore (Hero) and Matt Wagner (The Aerialist).

The second panel, “True Confessions: LGBT Slice-of-Life Comics” in room 10 on Friday, July 24, at 11:30 a.m., explores the coming of age of GLBT autobiographical comics. Prism Comics Publication Chair Roger Klorese will moderate with panelists Lee Marrs (The Further Fattening Adventures of Pudge, Girl Blimp), Ariel Schrag (Likewise), Jeff Krell (Jayson Goes to Hollywood), Robert Triptow (Gay Comix), and Justin Hall (True Travel Tales).

On Friday, Prism Comics and Ned Cato, Jr. host the “Young Heroes!” party at Rich’s San Diego from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The fifth annual party includes go-go dancers, drink specials and its annual Superhero Costume Contest with cash and prizes. Costume-contest categories include sexiest, best costume, best body, most original and crowd favorite. Those who attend will have the opportunity to have their picture taken from a selection of young heroes and mingle with special guests and superheroes in the VIP Young Heroes Creators Lounge. An expert makeup artist will offer face and body painting. Special guests include award-winning artist Joe Phillips, artist J.J. Kirby, Captain Rich’s and Twink Boy and others. Those who come in costume get in free until the costume contest. You can also show your Comic-Con badge and get a discount off the cover charge at the door. Rich’s San Diego is located at 1051 University Ave. in Hillcrest. For more information, call 619-295-2195 or visit www.richssandiego.com.

The third panel “Love is in The Air: LGBT Romance Comics” in room 30AB on Saturday, July 25, at 4:30 p.m., focuses on GLBT creators inspired by but moving beyond the boy-girl romance comics of yesteryear. Prism Comics Founder and Web Chair Charles “Zan” Christensen will moderate with panelists Terry Moore (Strangers In Paradise), Tim Fish (Cavalcade of Boys), Mari Morimoto (Naruto), Steve MacIsaac (Shirtlifter), Colleen Coover (Small Favors), and Michelle Nolan (Love on the Racks: A History of American Romance Comics).

The final GLBT Comic-Con panel “Gays in Comics: Year 22!” is in room 6DE on Saturday, July 25, at 6 p.m. Long-running Founding moderator Andy Mangels (best-selling author of Star Trek novels and Iron Man: Beneath The Armor), presents a look at diversity in the comics world with Greg Rucka, Phil Jimenez (The Amazing Spider-Man), Gail Simone (Wonder Woman); Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Marvel Divas), Peter David (Fallen Angel), Ed Luce (Wuvable Oaf), Perry Moore and Sina Grace (Books with Pictures).

Following the “Gays in Comics” panel, Prism hosts “Gays in Comics Mixer and Silent Auction” in room 6A at 7:30 p.m. Guests are offered the opportunity to mingle with comics writers, artists and fans, and there will be a special drawing of a gift basket of comics and a silent auction of comics items.

Prism Comics has an expanded booth (number 2146) at this year’s Comic-Con. Comic creators Jeff Krell, Justin Hall, Charles “Zan” Christensen, Ed Luce, Steve MacIsaac, and Sina Grace will exhibit their work and meet fans at the booth.

The organization will also host nonstop signings with creators, including Ariel Schrag, Jen Van Meter (Hopeless Savages), Greg Rucka, Perry Moore, Eric Schlegel (Skipping Out) and many others, plus an appearance by, Lucky Legendary.

In addition to its comics signings, Prism is offering a portfolio review. Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex, Countdown), Phil Jimenez, Bob Schreck (Editor at Dark Horse, Oni Press, DC), Georg Brewer (DC Direct), Colleen Coover and José Villarrubia will critique the work of those interested in applying for this year’s Queer Press Grant (QPG), established by the comics organization to encourage new GLBT talent. Applicants are required to read the QPG guidelines before attending the sessions, available at the following Web address.

For more information about this year’s GLBT Comic-Con events, visit www.prismcomics.org or e-mail david@prismcomics.org. At the convention, guests can pick up “The Gay Agenda,” which includes Prism event information and a program schedule, at the Prism booth.