A couple of local comics-related events you should know about:

The second DC Comicon is this Sunday at George Mason University. Guests include Frank Cho, G.I. Joe artist SL Gallant, G.I. Joe writer Larry Hama, superhero stalwart Jim Starlin, and comic book artist Todd Dezago and the Kids Love Comics co-op. Dealers from as far away as Charlotte, NC will be selling comics, sometimes at ridiculously low prices. Sneak out and spend some quality Father’s Day time sucking in the fumes of paper, ink and nostalgia. Free.

If that doesn’t interest you, on Monday the State Department is bringing in 20 cartoonists from countries that are undoubtedly pleasant to visit, but whose names perhaps aren’t synomymous with freedom of the press. Under the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) the cartoonists, from countries in North Africa, the Middle East, and South and Central Asia, are traveling around the U.S. and meeting their American counterparts. In the spirit of international diplomacy, their names are not being announced until they are actually safely in America. “Daring to Draw: An Evening With Political Cartoonists From Around the World” is their opening reception at the National Press Club, with a cash bar and a display of their works, on Monday evening beginning at 5:30 pm. Registration is required. $10.