Volume 3, No. 6. March 28, 2003
A
super gift
As part of the growing
synergy between the technologically advanced thrill rides and the longtime DC
Comics superheroes who have inspired those thrill rides’ names, the three
Six Flags parks that this year are installing new Superman-themed rides—Great
Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey; Great America in Gurnee, Illinois; and Six
Flags Over Texas in Arlington, Texas—are also getting new Superman comic
books to sell in their stores.
It's just such an old-style comic book that’s grabbing attention among
media members covering Six Flags Great America. Susie Storey, public relations
manager for the park, approached DC Comics with a request for Superman comic
books to use as media teasers and promotional gifts in her publicity campaign
for the May 3 opening of Superman Ultimate Flight, a B&M flying coaster.
DC Comics obliged with about 2,000 copies of The 10 Cent Adventure version of
Superman. “We said, ‘Here’s how many we’d like,’ and
they sent them right to me,” Storey said. “They’ve been great
to work with. They’ve been very, very nice.”
The book, in which Superman takes on Amok in various guises, is a perfect primer
for people unfamiliar with the Man of Steel. It briefly details his back story
and displays his many superhero abilities. “It’s talking about how
Superman came from another planet and made his home here, and what we’re
saying (in the ride’s promotional campaign) is that Superman is coming
to make his home in Illinois,” Storey said.
Thematic tie-in aside, the book has served its purpose. Storey sent a copy to
some 500 media members. “A lot have called to say they got it and like
it,” she said. “They are asking when we’re sending invitations
to media day.” She also plans to use the comics for promotional gifts,
and her office mailed copies to the homes of full-time employees. “We not
only want to get the public excited but get the whole park excited as well,”
Storey said. “It’s been really fun. People have made a point to come
into the office and say ‘We got our comic book!’”
THE LOOP is written and produced by Eric Minton, Minton Enterprises, LLC. To see more examples of Eric Minton's work and Minton Enterprises services, visit www.ericminton.com.
©2003, Minton Enterprises
LLC
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