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A Time of Thanks

With Thanksgiving sneaking up on us like a Nightcrawler attack, we wanted to take time to list a few things we are thankful for this year. So here are 6 things we couldn’t live without (in no particular order of course).

Books

Whether it’s Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein or a Star Trek novel, we wouldn’t be anywhere without books. We are so grateful to be able to dive into the wonderful worlds given to us in books, sometimes over and over again.

Comics/Graphic Novels

The beautiful art that makes up a comic or a graphic novel has surely touched us all at some point. The stories told in near or far-off worlds through a mixture of art and text have given us understanding, justice, love… they’ve connected us to characters we always felt but never knew we needed. I personally went through a period where I only read X-Men. If I had to do it over again, I would do it the exact same way.

Movies/TV Shows

Now with movies and TV shows more readily available at our fingertips it is no surprise that they make our thankful-for list. Inspiring everything from creatures to set design, the films/shows we watch lift us up and also get our creative juices flowing. And when we have worked too hard and need to relax, we are thankful to have action movies that we cannot get enough of like Die Hard.

Action Figures

All of us wouldn’t be who we are without the toys that made us (and yes, that goes for the Netflix show as well). We are grateful for the re-used molds that brought us the Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Friar Tuck figure. Just as we love, and always need, more Star Wars Action Figures regardless if they start to have silly names. He-Man figures with too many muscles that have to stand just so or just don’t make any character sense… yes, please!

Collectibles

 

While action figures are near and dear to our hearts, so are high-end collectibles with multiple points of articulation, high sculpture detail, multiple head and eye options, impeccable fabrications, realistic paint design, or sculptures that are top-to-bottom brilliant. After all, if we love it, we want to own it! #notashamed

Costumers

Above all, we are extremely thankful for all of our wonderful customers! We have the absolute best patrons and we couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your lives throughout the years. Thank you so much for sharing your loves, or hates, with us. Thank you for your support be it for events, holidays, or just for coming in!

What are you thankful for this year? Did we miss something you think we should have listed? Let us know!

 

Top 6 Black Comic Book Superhero Dads

In the vibrant and diverse world of comic books, there are numerous black superheroes who have not only saved the day but have also excelled in their roles as fathers. Dads who have inspired readers with their heroism, strength, and unwavering love for their children. From time-traveling mutants to high-flying superheroes, these fathers have shown us that being a hero extends beyond the battlefield and into the realm of family. Sweet Christmas! Let’s take a look at our top 6 black comic book superhero dads.

6. Bishop: The Time-Traveling Protector

Starting us off at #6 is Bishop, aka Lucas Bishop, a time-traveling mutant from the X-Men. While Bishop is not often portrayed as a father, in the “Age of X-Man” story line, he becomes a protective father figure to a group of young mutants. Bishop guides and fights alongside these mutants, ensuring their survival and teaching them to harness their powers. He also saw himself as a father figure to Hope Summers, though after hunting and attempting to kill her multiple times, Bishop says in “Uncanny X-Force Vol. 2 #5” that he was really a monster even though he thought he was doing the right thing. We all make mistakes, right? Nothing that Psylocke and Storm can’t erase.

5. Sam Wilson/Falcon: The Avian Guardian

Sam Wilson, also known as Falcon, soars high as one of Marvel’s beloved superheroes. When he takes on the mantle of Captain America, he becomes a symbol of hope and justice. In addition to his heroic feats, Falcon is a father figure to his nephew, Jody. Sam Wilson imparts valuable life lessons to Jody, teaching him the importance of using his abilities to fight for a better world. Through his unwavering support and guidance, Falcon molds Jody into a courageous and compassionate individual.

4. Black Lightning: An Ex-static Dad

Jefferson Pierce, also known as Black Lightning, is not only a high school principal but also a superhero with the power to generate and manipulate electricity. As a father to his daughters, Anissa and Jennifer (aka Thunder and Lightning), he strikes a delicate balance between his superhero responsibilities and his role as a parent. Black Lightning guides his daughters, teaching them important life lessons about justice, compassion, and the responsible use of their own powers. His commitment to protecting his family and community sets a powerful example.

3. Blade: The Ultimate Daywalker Daddy

Blade, the half-vampire/half-human hybrid, is widely known for his relentless pursuit of supernatural creatures. However, beneath his tough exterior lies a deep sense of responsibility towards his daughter, Brielle “Bri” Brooks (aka Bloodline).  While Bri grew up without knowing her father, he did gift some killer weapons to her mother Safron in order to keep her safe. He also gifted her with some sweet daywalker powers such as enhanced strength and speed, night vision, quick reflexes, and a sense of the supernatural; not to mention, she can really handle herself. Once Blade and Bri meet, he takes her under his half-vampire wing and trains her, showing his support by rewarding her with a leather jacket of her own.

2. Luke Cage: The Indestructible Hero

Luke Cage, also known as Power Man, is a street-level hero with unbreakable skin and superhuman strength. Sweet Christmas! But beyond his superhero persona, Luke Cage exemplifies what it means to be a loving and protective father. His daughter, Danielle, holds a special place in his heart, and he goes to great lengths to ensure her safety. Luke Cage serves as a positive role model, teaching Danielle the values of integrity, strength, and standing up for what is right.

1. T’Challa/Black Panther: The King of Wakanda

Rounding out our list and topping it off at #1 is the iconic T’Challa, also known as Black Panther, the king of Wakanda. T’Challa’s commitment to his nation extends to his role as a devoted father to his children. Despite his royal duties and responsibilities as a superhero, T’Challa takes the time to instill in his children, such as Azari, the values of honor, courage, and responsibility. He teaches them the importance of protecting their people and fighting for justice.

Don’t see your favorite black comic book superhero dad on our list? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on social media! IG @blastftp or on Facebook.

Celebrating the Superheroic Moms in Comic Books: Empowering Women, Inspiring Readers

Comic books have long been a source of inspiration and empowerment, showcasing extraordinary characters who navigate extraordinary circumstances. While superheroes often take center stage, it’s essential to recognize the incredible impact of mothers within the comic book world. In this blog, we pay tribute to the moms in comic books who embody strength, resilience, and unwavering love. From iconic figures like Martha Kent and Aunt May to modern heroes like Jessica Jones and Sue Storm, these super moms demonstrate that maternal power knows no bounds.

1. Maternal Role Models

Comic books have a rich history of presenting strong maternal role models who not only nurture their children but also embody exceptional qualities. One of the earliest and most revered superhero moms is Martha Kent, who raised Clark Kent (aka Superman) with a sense of morality and compassion. Her unwavering support and guidance molded the Last Son of Krypton into the world’s greatest hero.

Another beloved mother figure is Aunt May, who has been a constant presence in Peter Parker’s life. Despite the challenges they face, Aunt May’s love and wisdom provide Peter with a sense of stability and serve as a moral compass throughout his journey as Spider-Man.

2. Superpowered Moms

Comic books have also introduced us to superpowered moms who balance their heroic duties with the responsibilities of motherhood. Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman of the Fantastic Four, epitomizes this dual role. As a founding member of the team, Sue showcases her incredible force-field powers while being a devoted mother to her children, Franklin and Valeria. Her ability to protect her family and the world simultaneously is awe-inspiring.

Similarly, Storm, a member of the X-Men, leads by example as both a powerful mutant and a loving mother figure. Her leadership skills and ability to empathize with young mutants make her an inspiration not only for her teammates but also for readers.

3. Complex Motherhood

Comic books have also explored the complexities of motherhood, delving into the challenges faced by superhero moms. Jessica Jones, a former superhero turned private investigator, navigates the hardships of raising her son while battling personal demons. Her struggle to balance her past, her responsibilities, and her own well-being resonates with readers who appreciate the complexity of motherhood.

Another powerful example is Martha Wayne, the mother of Bruce Wayne (Batman). Though her life was tragically cut short, her influence on Bruce’s journey cannot be overstated. Her love and sacrifice drive Bruce to become Gotham City’s Dark Knight, ensuring that no other child experiences the same loss he did.

4. Breaking Stereotypes

Comic books have been a platform for challenging stereotypes surrounding motherhood. Characters like Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel) and Ororo Munroe (Storm) prove that being a mother doesn’t limit one’s capacity for heroism. These characters demonstrate that women can be mothers and superheroes, breaking down traditional gender roles and inspiring readers to embrace their full potential.

The presence of moms in comic books is a testament to the importance of motherhood in shaping the lives of superheroes. These characters, with their diverse personalities, powers, and struggles, provide readers with a multifaceted understanding of maternal strength. By celebrating the superpowered moms of comic book lore, we not only acknowledge their impact on their respective universes but also honor the powerful, nurturing figures in our own lives. As we turn the pages of these stories, we are reminded that being a mother is an extraordinary feat in itself, deserving of admiration and appreciation.

9 Movies That Are Great Even After Christmas

It happens to the best of us, Christmas comes and goes but we still yearn for more holiday movies. Luckily there’s those movies that hint at Christmas time but focus their attention elsewhere making them movies that are watchable all year long. Here is a list of 9 Movies That Are Great Even After Christmas. Huzzah!

9. Die Hard (1988)

Yes, it comes up every year, and maybe you even view Die Hard as a true Christmas movie, but nevertheless this comedic action thriller has all the kicks and punches that make us come back again and again all year long. We can’t get enough and neither should you. Yippee-kay-yay!

8. Lethal Weapon (1989)

Continuing with our love for action, Lethal Weapon is indeed a Christmas time movie. In fact, there’s even a scene that takes place lit in red by the Christmas tree. And with a mullet like Mel Gibson’s this movie deserves to be played on repeat.

7. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

As lovable as his McFarlane Toys action figure which we’ve carried in the past, Edward Scissorhands knows how to decorate for Christmas. Yet with the green foliage, hot tight pants, and Avon lady world that is this movie, you can watch this film year round. It will give you all the good vibes you wish for with a Tim Burton picture and leave you wondering, why don’t I watch this more often?

6. Gremlins (1984)

Gremlins may be more on the nose about its Christmas feelings then the other movies on this list but the mayhem that it creates makes it an all-the-time favorite. Christmas time, Halloween time, random day in March, this film is viewable at any time. And how we love the collectibles that remind us of this heartwarming movie, like the 2-Pack Winter Gremlins Action Figures released by Neca shown below.

5. Batman Returns (1992)

As our excitement grows about the newest Batman movie, The Batman (2022), we can’t help but yearn for Batman Returns. Nothing gives you those Christmas-feels like Gotham blowing up and Danny Devito as the Penguin. However, the movie doesn’t get hung-up on the fact that it’s Christmas time instead it let’s Batman fall in love with Catwoman while the Penguin tries to take over Gotham City. Pure Batman gold in Tim Burton glory. In fact, you can enjoy this movie over and over again as you cuddle next to your Batman Returns action figure. We’ll allow it.

4. Shazam! (2019)

A wizard at Christmas time? Sign me up! Not only do you get the child-like wonder that is Zachary Levi but this movie offers a warming family cheer with bad guys and good guys fighting amongst Christmas decorations. Score!

3. 12 Monkeys (1995)

I’ll admit this movie took me awhile to go back to with being in a pandemic but the truth is 12 Monkeys has always been a great movie. Another Christmas time movie featuring Bruce Willis (Die Hard), the zany apocalyptic world designed by Gilliam is a non-stop enjoyment-fest. Did I mention ’90s Brad Pitt? Yea, reason enough to watch all year.

2. Prometheus (2012)

We can’t get enough of the Alien universe and that includes Prometheus. The fact that it takes place during Christmas time makes me want to jump up and down with my Alien collectibles. So, yes, we will be watching the Alien movie franchise on repeat during 2022.

1. Iron Man 3 (2013)

Writer and Director Shane Black knows what we want during this time of year (Lethal Weapon, Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang) and it’s no different with Iron Man 3. He once said that, “Christmas bands together and cements a story.” It brings everyone together those in the film and watching it. We couldn’t agree more. In fact, it’s bringing us to watch this movie right now.

No matter what time of year, these 9 movies are sure to bring you the warmth of Christmas without hitting you over the head with it. And, yes, it’s okay to watch Christmas movies in the middle of July. We asked, and also, we won’t tell. So, carry on, friends.

Your movie addicts at Blast From the Past

Scary Movies to Binge This Weekend

There’s a lot of viewable content out there which is why a watch list is so important. With Halloween on Sunday, time is of the essence, we need scary movies and we need them now. Here are 6 movies to binge this weekend that may or may not have been on your radar.

1. Werewolves Within (2021)

A fun twist of a werewolf movie. Full of delightful comedy and scary bits, it is perfect for anyone looking for a werewolf who-done-it or just a great comedic horror movie.

2. The Birds (1963)

Hitchcock got it all right with this suspenseful slow burn. So right that it still holds up today. Despite having some dated moments that may get a chuckle more than when it was released, The Birds still builds anxiety like a true horror should and is definitely worth a rewatch or a first viewing this time of year.

3. Arachnophobia (1990)

A spider, ew! Or yay, depending on your taste. But what if there are a lot of them? Like, way too many? This may be a movie forgotten, but one viewing and you’ll see why you’ll never forget it again. John Goodman plays an exterminator who is hired by arachnophobe Jeff Daniels to help clean his new house of, well, more than a few deadly spiders.

4. Killer Klowns From Outer Space (1988)

They came from outer space and they aren’t here to make friends. Another fun, creepy movie that will have you enjoying every minute. Unless you are deathly afraid of clowns, then… then this movie might be too much.

5. Nightbreed (1990)

From legendary Clive Barker and Danny Elfman, this fantasy, monster mash-up will hit all your light-hearted horror needs. And if after watching it you need something scarier, there’s always Hellraiser (1987).

6. The Faculty (1998)

School is scary enough but this school is ridiculous. Somewhere between From Dusk Till Dawn (1996) and Spy Kids (2001), Robert Rodriguez brought you The Faculty which follows a group of kids who band together to try and figure out what’s coming over their school. It features an amazing cast and promises to offer some spooks and chills!

In addition to this list there’s always the great Halloween staples and their sequels: Halloween (1978), A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), and Friday the 13th (1980). What scary movie(s) should we add to our watch list? Let us know below or on our social media: IG @Blastftp, Twitter @BlastFTP, or on Facebook @blastfromthepastinc.

You Might Be a ’90s Kid If…

Whether inspired by animations, comic books, or originally imagined action figures before their spinoff tv shows, the ’90s filled our childhood hours with fun and imagination. They bat-a-ranged into our hearts and never let go. To us, they defined the 90s. Here’s a countdown of action figure lines that made us and defined us as ’90s kids.

5. SPAWN

4. BATMAN THE ANIMATED SERIES

3. THE SIMPSONS

2. REN & STIMPY

1. HE-MAN

 

There’s a whole lot of other toys from the ’90s that inspired us. What were the lines that called to you? If you haven’t had a chance, make sure to watch “The Toys That Made Us” on Netflix. It features some of these lines and has really great insider information on the lives of these figures. And the more you watch, the more likely the powers that be will grant us more episodes!

 

Till next time, friends!

 

6 Bad A** Women Lead Movies to Watch

As Black Widow hits screens everywhere we took a look at what other women lead movies to recommend. If you are looking for fun, bad a** women movies, we decided that these are the six to start with. Do keep in mind they may not be suitable for all ages, after all, it’s hard to be a lady all the time when you’re kicking butt.

Black Widow (2021)

Just released, we love the strength and feisty attitude of Scarlett Johannson as Natasha Romanova, aka Black Widow. What’s even better is that there are many women making their mark in this movie which shows that not only one woman can take names but many.

The Hunt (2020)

This movie was a surprise hit for me. It is subtle, funny, full of action, and features Betty Gilpin who, since I love Netflix’s Glow, is everything. Keep in mind this is a movie with people being hunted so it’s not for every age, but if you are in the mood for a strong female lead with dark comedy and blood, you are golden.

Cruella (2021)

The animation style of the 1961 One Hundred and One Dalmations is one of my favorites and has a special place in my heart. Watching Cruella de Vil careening down the road with her crazy hair and maddening eyes made me scared and excited. That’s why I was over the moon to see Emma Stone hunched over the driver’s wheel just like the animation in the Cruella trailer. The movie also didn’t disappoint. Have some punk fun and root for the girl who doesn’t apologize for being bad.

Atomic Blonde (2017)

Atomic Blonde is a non-stop thrill ride of woman bad-a**ery. Charlize Theron did her own stunts in this movie and they are incredible. Also a movie not suitable for youngins’, this movie is packed with ’80s dressed spy-ness. So grab some pink lipstick because this ride is going to be killer.

Wonder Woman (2017)

When DC’s Wonder Woman hit theatres in 2017 we were unprepared. Suddenly a blockbuster action movie that did well in the box office featured a strong female lead. Now it’s not like female leads didn’t exist before 2017, but it was the first time a whole world of strong women didn’t rely on another sex to tell a story. Despite the story falling into the realm of love stories, Diana Prince and her Amazonians showed that if you believe in truth and love you can kick meanies butts. After all, besides an invisible jet isn’t that what most of us want anyway? If you’ve been waiting to watch this movie, do it now. And if you’ve already seen it, watch it again. Then go back and watch some Geena Davis movies, women film education people.

Thelma & Louise (1991)

Speaking of Geena Davis, if you want a powering women duo, Thelma & Louise is a must-see. I can never get enough of this movie. It is quirky and familiar, strong and unapologetic, it’s the right actors with the right dialogue and story, and yes, even has the famous Brad Pitt abs. Though the dynamics between Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis is enough a reason for me.

You may be asking yourself, “This is July? Shouldn’t this be a list of 7 Bad A** Women Lead Movies?” The reason for there being no #7 just as there are no numbers marking this list, is that any film that features a powerful lady is #1 in our book, and we want to know what your favorite movies are to watch! Let us know which movies we missed below or on social media. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Stay classy collectors. Your bad a** blogger,

Diane

4 Must-Read Comic Book Series 4 April

As we know, April is the 4th month of the year which makes these 4 comic book series even more special. This time of year may make you think of several things: springtime, Easter, taxes… and that’s why when trying to pinpoint which comic book you should read next, we recommend these following 4 gems. 4 series 4 you to read in 4 of 2021, still following me here? Good. Then, read on.

4. Spring Break Wolverine

Now, this is a tricky one which is why it makes our #4 spot, but “Spring Break Wolverine,” a fan story by Jason Latour and Robbi Rodriquez released in 2012, hits our party time curiosity. It had a short run online and has since been pulled but the available pages make it an itch in my want-to-read-more cap. It is said that it was unsuitable for work, but with a premise like Wolverine finds himself accidentally in the thralls of kids partying during spring break I’m sold. If anyone knows where we can find a copy, please comment below or reach out to us on social media (links below).

3. Lenore

Hitting our #3 spot is Roman Dirge’s Lenore because it is to die for (pun intended). Lenore is the cute little dead girl who lives her life not fully aware of her surroundings which usually ends up in fatal accidents. It’s a series that’s been running since 1998 and it’s the cutest and most twisted thing… I love it. Why Lenore makes our April Comic Book Series List is because in one story she accidentally catches the Easter Bunny in a bear trap. Helping out, she dons a “bunny suit” and goes around delivering eggs to children… well, she tries at least. We will just say this is the friendly version of how this plot goes down, but the original is just as dark and lovely as one can imagine.

2. Superman

April is the time for the terrible T-word, taxes, and flying into our #2 spot of comic book series you should read in April is, yes, Superman. It seems odd at first, but Superman had at least 2 issues that rehashed a similar tale of Superman never paying his taxes and owing the IRS a billion dollars. Superman No. 114 released in July 1957 which featured the story on the cover and then in October 1961, the recycled story made an appearance in Superman No. 148. Somehow I find it comforting that the man in blue even had trouble with the government, but that could be just my glass-half-full wanting to come through rather than the alternative.

1. Swamp Thing

Bringing this list home is one of my favorites, Swamp Thing. As we approach Earth Day who better to remind us of what happens when you mess with nature than Swamp Thing. Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson planted this wonderful creation in 1971 and then broke out his solo self-titled series in 1972. And if you still haven’t watched the DC hit television series based on the comic/original movie, go watch it — now. It’s one of the best adaptations that’s ever come out of the DC Universe.

If our 4 for month 4 list wasn’t enough to hold you for this month just remember… Don Cheadle was Captain Planet before he became War Machine.

“With our powers combined [we can read more comic].”

Busy Reading Diane

Have other comic book series that just scream April to you? Let us know! Leave a comment below or give us a shout-out on social media. IG @Blastftp, Twitter @BlastFTP, or find us on Facebook at Blast From the Past.

Dear Galaxy I Love You #NotAshamed

We all have a story behind our pop culture loves that indefinitely link us to the toys we hold so dear. One world that is big in our store is Star Wars. We carry action figures, original 70s/80s/90s and new, memorabilia, promotional items, unique items, you-think-it-and-they’ve-probably-made-it items, enamel pins and everything in between. To the point, we love Star Wars. I love Star Wars and my connection to it goes back to, yes, when I was wee.

My father started it, my connection with Star Wars. It was the late 80s by the time I discovered his copy of the original VHS release of the trilogy. I was already familiar with the figures. We had quite the collection: action figures, an Ewok mask, a cork board featuring the cast, a lunchbox and even a tiny, kid-size Star Wars desk. The movies, however, blew me away. And even though I was of the in between generation, between the release of Episode IV-VI and the release of the prequels, I loved them all.

Those original three movies drew me in, as it did so many others, but why? Was it that it took you on an adventure over and over? Was it that good always won out no matter how appealing the dark side became? Was it the ridiculous creatures that somehow captured our hearts? For me, I believe it was all of the above. It didn’t matter how clunky some of the machinery or droids seemed to be, it didn’t matter how many side swipes jumped you from story to story, it had passion and heart from everyone who touched those films. It was the love of the people making those films that I believe in turn reached me and unleashed my imagination. It whisked up my hair into oversized cinnamon buns and said, “hey, this is pure fun and it’s alright.” And still to this day, the amount of ultimate joy I get by seeing a Jumbo Kenner-inspired Gamorrean Guard by Gentle Giant is an extension of that welcoming imagination. The figures and collectibles allow that rush of feeling, of love, and of awe I received from those films to wash over me like a kiss from a Bantha.

February is a month for many celebrations, but I think as we talk about love around Valentine’s Day we should speak about the love of our passions. After all, the love we feel for the movies, tv shows, and comics that made us is forever. To the artists who made them, we love you. You are astounding and we are not ashamed to say, yes, we probably will be dressed in head-to-toe cosplay and sleep in a several day, nay week(s), line the next time a Star Wars premiere is releasing in theaters and we are allowed to go.

Until then…

Stay Classy, Friends

– Movie Marathon Diane

Roundup the Troops It’s Game Time

Whether you are spending more time indoors with family these days, your 60-year-old roommate, or your three cats, we have some fun items in stock to help you pass the time.

1. Puzzles

No matter your pop culture delight of choice, we probably have a puzzle for it. One of my particular favs is the Gremlins Collage puzzle by Aquarius, not pictured (and it may be gone by the time I finish this blog). We have many White Mountain Puzzles for the nostalgic puzzler and other Aquarius puzzles.

2. Board Games

Bring out your dice! These board games will have you rolling (get it!?)! Have fun with 1-5 players with these games based on your ultimate movie favorites like Horrified: a Universal Monsters Strategy Board Game. It allows you to play as the Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula, the Invisible Man, etc. which hits all our classic horror bones. However, keep an eye out because some of these games are recommended for ages 10+.

3. Video Games

While we don’t specialize in retro video games, we do get in a collection from time to time. So, if you are wanting to play an old school game with your roommate or sister, or just ignore everyone in your family all together, then these games are vintage gold. It’s best to call our store directly to see what we still have available in stock.

4. Model Kits

You love your collectibles and you love creating them yourself, or you’ve always wanted to build a model kit but never had the time, and well… now you do. Then these guys are for you! We love model kits ourselves like this Aurora King Kong kit! They are perfect for filling that artsy itch and whittling away some hours. They also look beautiful on the shelf when complete! Check-in with us to see what we still have in stock as our inventory is always shifting on these unique items.

5. Playing Cards

Whether you’re in the mood for playing solitaire or tricking your father out of a few M&Ms in poker (you scallywag), these pop culture cards are sure to add a little twinkle to your smile. We have horror-themed, superhero-themed, or fantasy-themed playing cards just to name a few.

So gather the troops and pass the skittles, it’s time for a little play and relaxation Blast From the Past style.

– Reliably Retro Diane