Tom Brevoort, Marvel’s Senior Vice President of Publishing, started a Twitter initiative called “While They Live Wednesday” in response to the sudden passing away of comics professional Dwayne McDuffie. McDuffie was a young, talented, and often underappreciated creator in the comics and animation industries. Using the hashtag #whiletheylive on Twitter, fans can celebrate industry professionals while they are still alive to appreciate the kind words. Many people have had the same idea, but kudos goes out to Tom Brevoort for making it a reality. I think this a wonderful idea who’s time has come thanks to the advent of current social media. Imagine the explosion of tweets and facebook tributes if we had this technology when someone like Jack Kirby passed away! Read Tom’s blog for more info as it becomes available. The celebrated industry pro for Wednesday February 23rd, 2011 is Gene Colan.