HeroesCon: Where to Eat 2014 Update

So, it's been almost a year since my last post on here, but HeroesCon is upon us and there are new places to eat!  You can see previous year's lists in these spots: 2013, 2012, and 2011.  I also recommend following Heroes' very own, Rico Renzi on instagram for photos of all the local eateries he personally enjoys! You can also follow my food and comic friendly instagram, too!

Master Bacon Food Truck

There are new food trucks! I do so love our ever growing food truck community and I hope our lovely city continues to support that growth.  There's a food truck for the carnivores among you dedicated to BACON! They're also vegetarian friendly and will do off menu requests.  Their breakfast sandwiches are pretty amazing. If you love bacon, I encourage you to follow Master Bacon on twitter at the address listed below.  Twitter is also the best option to find out where the food trucks will be each day.

New Food Trucks:
Master Bacon: @MasterBacon911
The Pig and Cow, Inc: @thepigandcow
KO Food Truck: @KOFoodTruck
Gourmet Gombahs: @GGombahs
Hot Box Street Food: @Hotboxstfood
Juan's Taco Truck: @juan_taco_truck
OooWeeBBQ: @EatOooWeeBBQ
Wafflez and Wings: @WafflezandWings
Chrome Toaster: @ChromeToasterNC

OooWee BBQ Sundae

Charlotte Food Trucks: @cltfoodtrucks and Sizzlin' Saturday" @SizzlinSaturday are both good places to find information on all the Charlotte area trucks.  There's a food truck lot on South Blvd which will have trucks on both Friday and Saturday nights.  Just make sure you're back in time for the Drink and Draw and Art Auction each night!

New Heroes Store Area:
Bang Bang Burgers: The Heroes guys love this place for Fat Fridays.  The portions are generous and yummy.  Veggie options are also available.
Pizza Peel: Good pizza and good beer, plus I've heard rumors of a lunch buffet in which large volumes of said pizza may be consumed.

Close-ish to Uptown:
Tupelo Honey Cafe: One of my Asheville favorites has come to town! Located not far from the heart of Uptown on South Blvd, this place is good for all three meals.  I lean towards their breakfast and we all know that's the most important meal of the day.
The Liberty: Seth said I would be remiss if I didn't include the restaurant that serves his favorite burger in Charlotte.  If you're a burger love, try the Black Angus “Carolina” Burger.  It has the Seth stamp of approval.  I love their house made soft pretzels with beer cheese! The Liberty is across the parking lot from Tupelo Honey.


Sunday Brunch Options:
Mert's Heart & Soul 

Bistro la Bon Brunch at the Bar

Tupelo Honey
Bistro la Bon
Nan and Byron's 

Just be aware that Charlotteans love their brunch.  Plan on going early or be prepared to wait.  Bistro la Bon and Nan and Byron's are both buffet style brunches with a nice variety of options.  I am normally so full from both that I only need a very light dinner.

I'm sure I've missed wonderful new options so you have any additions, please add them in the comments!
Can't wait to see all of you soon!

~Heather

HeroesCon 2013 Report

Is HeroesCon 2013 really already in the books? While I am glad that I will see more of my dear (and very tired) husband, I did so enjoy my retreat from the outside world this past weekend.  It's lovely to make such wonderful friendships that cement over just a few days together each year.  But y'all don't want to hear me wax poetically about about the bonds formed across a table, you want to know about the art, the guests, and most of all the COMICS! Because at the heart of it, that's what HeroesCon is about.  

There's normally something else going on at the Convention Center during HeroesCon and this year it was the NC Republican Convention.  I will tell you now that I am neither Republican nor Democrat and I don't know that some of the reactions I observed were about political affiliation, but some of the delegates seem just baffled and others rude about how we all show our love for comics.  Now admittedly, some of us at some laughs at the expense of the GOP.  It's hard not to make the cosplay jokes with all the suits and bowties and well, Karl Rove is an entity all to himself.  I do have to say he looks much more grandfatherly than Sith Lord in person.  However, I did get the feeling on more than one occasion that some of the delegates rather than just not understanding the cultures of comics they were encountering, they looked down upon us.  I did have some positive interactions with a few of the delegates, including a dapper gentleman in a lovely sherbet colored blazer, but it was a reminder that people outside of comics don't understand our passion for the medium.     

But enough of that dreariness, on to the fun stuff that makes HeroesCon such a great event!

Cara's Tea Ball Machine

First up: comics, comics, and more comics! There was something for everyone from Silver Age collectors to Cara McGee's fandom teas are a sweet way to celebrate your love of comics and her tea ball machine is an excellent way to sample her special blends.  I came away with Dean, Loki and Draco Malfoy and I have thoroughly enjoyed all three.  I can't wait to try some more tea ball samples in the future.  I also picked up some adorable Marvel Baby variants that I was missing from Apocalypse Comics and Painted Visions Comics.  I also scored some great indie comics which I plan to review on our Tumblr site at a later date (spoiler alert: buy anything Robbi Rodriguez has on his table!).  Seth also had the Heroes booth stocked to the gills with more amazing comics than I can even conceive of-their kids section was outstanding and he put mad hours into keeping the current stock, well, current! ;)
Indie Island lovers and even tea drinkers! While not necessarily "comics",

I attended two panels this year, which is actually less than last year if you count the two panels I moderated, plus Seth's.  I picked some great ones to attend.  Jason Latour, Jason Aaron, and Frank Cho were an entertaining trio discussing their work on Wolverine.  Seth did a wonderful job on his Hawkeye panel with Matt Fraction and Steve Lieber which you can read more about on both CBR and Bleeding Cool.  I am happy to share that Wolverine and the X-Men and Hawkeye are two of my favorite comics.  

Seth working it at the Drink and Draw

Speaking of Seth, I just want to take a bit to tell you all how much work he puts into the Con.  The man is dedicated to doing his part each year to ensure that HeroesCon is one of the best shows around.  This means in the weeks leading up to the con, I hardly get to see him before bedtime.  Not only is he stocking the booth (as mentioned above), but he's editing the Program Book, preparing for his own panel, working on the Drink and Draw, as well as continuing his normal work as the Warehouse Manager.  I never fail to be impressed by all he does.

The Drink and Draw was relocated to the uptown Hilton this year and it was a change for the better.  Not only was it indoors which helped us avoid the monsoon that overtook Charlotte.  The staff at the Hilton was amazing and responded to every request we had with speed and professionalism.  There was also a larger crowd this year of both artists and fans which meant the amount of money raised for Team Cul de Sac was more than doubled from the last two years.  Seth and I are both so happy to be able to play our small part in the fight against Parkison's.

Cosplay! It seemed like there were more costumes than ever, including some that had to be explained to me.  To make this even more fun, two of the Indie Island ladies, Kytri and Pickles, had "Keep Calm and Cosplay Bingo" cards.  Thanks to the assistance of the lovely Suzann Knudsen, I managed a double bingo on my card! I'm actually planning a little bit of cosplay for next year, but that will be a secret that will only be revealed at the Con.  Just another reason to block June 20-22, 2014 on your calendars now!

The art auction was totally packed to the gills with amazing pieces and I was so very happy to come home

So happy to have won Michelle's Harley. Photo by Patrick Sun

with the Harley Quinn painting by Michelle Poust that I honestly had my heart set on since the moment I saw her painting it.  I'm not sure how I felt about the new format this year.  I know the professional auctioneers are very efficient, but they were also very loud and I left the auction the moment I won Harley.  It seems that there must be a good balance between the relaxing atmosphere of the past and the speed and professionalism of this year.  I am sure the staff is already brainstorming as to that very notion.  While it's always fun to hang out in the hallway outside of the auction, we need as many people as possible in the ballroom until the end bidding on all that the HeroesCon auction has to offer.

I want to take the last part of this post to give some mad love to everyone who made the weekend super awesome: Joel Carroll, Kevin Mellon, Ed Piskor, Chris Pitzer, Jim Rugg, Robbi Rodriguez, James Harren, Jason Latour, J.Chris Campbell, Rob Ullman, Joey Weiser, Duane Ballenger, Mike Freiheit, Pat Sun, Steve Lieber, Andy Runton, Dustin Harbin, Rich Barrett, Alexis Ziritt, Sanford Greene, and Chris Schweizer.  Plus Little John for his awesome cookies and Suzann Knudsen for her Doop-napping plans that were foiled! I also had some great lunch buddies in Janis and Izzy Renzi.  Last, but not least, thanks to Linda Drum, who knows that being a Heroes wife isn't always comics and smiles and takes care of us ladies accordingly.  (I'm sure I am forgetting someone, but if I saw you and chatted this weekend chances are I think you're pretty awesome!)

I enjoyed myself so very much this year that I'm not sure if they'll ever get me back behind the Info Booth!  You can check out all the fun I had over on Flickr.  

HeroesCon Drink and Draw

This year will be the third annual HeroesCon Drink and Draw benefiting Team Cul de Sac.  This event gets

Drink and Draw coaster by Evan Dorkin

bigger and better each year and has outgrown its former location of Fuel Pizza and will be taking over the uptown Hilton Bar this year.  The Drink and Draw takes place Friday, June 7 after the show closes for the day.  If you have never been, you could be thinking that if you don't drink and you don't draw, why should you attend? Well, have I got some reasons for you:

1.  Great Cause:  The proceeds of all the art sold at the Drink and Draw go to Team Cul de Sac.  TCDS was founded by Chris Sparks following the Parkinson's disease diagnosis of Richard Thompson, the creator of the comic strip, Cul de Sac.  In 2012, TCDS raised over $100,000 to fund research for a cure.  Part of that fundraising effort was HeroesCon's Drink and Draw.  

2.  Great Art:  Drink and Draw features all sorts of artists who have stopped by and put pen (or marker or pencil or paint) to coaster/bristol board.  Most of those artists donate their creations to be auctioned off by the Heroes staff  for fans to take home.  It's a super opportunity to take home a one-of-a-kind piece of art in a mostly relaxed bidding setting.  Chris has also gathered up some amazing art from creators who won't be at the show that will be available, you can see more here.  

3.  Great Fun: What better way to cap off you first day at the con than unwinding with friends, both old and new? Add in a beverage of your choice and you've got an excellent start to the weekend.  Even better some massive karma points when all of this fun is dedicated to a great cause.  This year also features live music by Jack the Radio, a NC based Southern indie band whose second album "Lowcountry" debuted this May.

Here's a look at last year's Drink and Draw.  Hope you'll stop by and join us this year!  I've been informed that my husband/Heroes manager Seth will be co-emceeing the event along with Heroes' Justin Crouse.  Knowing the two of them, ridiculousness should ensue.

The HeroesCon Drink and Draw takes place at the Center City Hilton located at 222 East 3rd Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202.  The fun starts at 7:30pm and goes until the last piece of art is auctioned off.  If you want more information be sure to check out the Heroes' blog post.

Also new this year, Jerry's Artarama is sponsoring Pedi-Cab rides to and from the Drink and Draw.  Just look for the HeroesCon Drink and Draw banners!

Heather's Top 10 Things to Do at HeroesCon 2013

Believe it or not, this will be my first ever HeroesCon as just as fan.  My HeroesCon experience started behind the Info Booth and I have decided to take year off to just enjoy all there is on the Charlotte Convention Center floor.  I picked an excellent year to do this in that HeroesCon will be in two halls which means a bigger Artists Alley and more exhibitors! Without further ado, my HeroesCon 2013 Top 10 Things I will be doing:

Drink and Draw

1.  Drink and Draw: I've been working this excellent fundraising event the past two years and I am happy to just

hang out, eat, drink, and bid on art to support the great cause of Team Cul de Sac.  For those of you that may be unfamiliar, Team Cul de Sac's creator, Richard Thompson, was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and Asheville's own Chris Sparks assembled a wonderful art book in support of both Richard and research for a cure.  Be sure to stop by the Hilton bar after the show closes on Friday!

2.  The Art Auction: Even if you don't win (or even bid on) a piece of art, this is a fun event.  There's so much art to enjoy, you'll want to get there before the auction starts on Saturday night to view all of the pieces contributed by various guests of the show.  

3.  Panels: I've heard rumors of a Wolverine panel featuring my two favorites Jasons and I was able to strong arm Seth into confessing that he will be moderating a Hawkeye panel.  I am reading so much Marvel this year! As always there will be a ton of panels to choose from no matter what your reading selections of the moment may be, so be sure to set aside some time to grab a seat.  

4.  Artist Alley (Guests and Small Press):  Where do I even start? No, really, I need some help mapping out who to see and where to go! I need to assemble my sketch and art "wish list".  

5. Indie Island: It's like a convention within a convention.  Discover new creators and check out the new works of old favorites.  If you can think of a crazy comic idea that you want to read, someone in Indie Island has probably already made it! 

Nick Cardy painting at the Live Art Stage

6. Live Art Stage: Want to see where all the magic happens for the Art Auction.  Stop by the newly enlarged Live Art Stage in the center of the convention floor and watch works of art come together before your very eyes.  

7. Westin Bar: The best place to wind down after a long day at the show and hang out with your friends before heading to bed.  Although it seems like some nights at the con are more like power naps than a full night's sleep.  

8.  Sunday Art Auction:  There's so much great art that the auction has evolved into a two day event concluding with an auction on the con floor by the Live Art Stage that even has it's own place on the map this year.  

9.  Cos-play Photo Shoot: On the Saturday of the con, tons of cos-players will be gathering at 2pm for their

Wonder Woman!

annual group shot.  If you love seeing your favorite characters in real life, this will be a great place to gather to snap photos and see for yourself all the amazing costumes people have assembled to celebrate their love of comics.

10: The Heroes Store Booth: The heart of the convention for many reasons for me.  Admittedly, this will be the best place to find my husband who has been working tirelessly to have the best stock pulled for both grown-ups and kids.  Seriously, the kids' stock is great.  No worries about your little reader stumbling across books they don't need to read for years when they have their own boxes to hunt through.  

   

HeroesCon: Where to Eat 2013 Update

Greetings my fellow HeroesCon attendees! Is it lunchtime yet? That's a question you'll overhear from me this year as I will be at my first HeroesCon as fan.  I will be out from behind the Info Booth and in the wild for my meals! In place of doing a whole new post, I have just added some additions to last year's post which you can find here.

Have I mentioned my love of food trucks and that Charlotte is graced with some amazing trucks? We now have a grilled cheese truck, y'all! Few foods make me happier than a delicious grilled cheese sandwich.  Well, perhaps an elaborate and delicious cupcake, but really, dessert is a totally separate food group.  Cupcake Delirium and Roaming Fork are generally parked on Pecan Street (the side street that runs on the Crisp side of the Heroes store) on Friday nights while others gather in the food truck lot on South Blvd.  If you're interested, be sure to check the twitter accounts of the specific trucks for location information.

Food Truck Additions and Favorites:
Papi Queso: @papiquesotruck
Cupcake Delirium: @onthegocupcakes
Roaming Fork: @roamingforkNC
Maki Taco: @makitacotruck

Walking Distance Additions:
Queen City Q: You're in North Carolina, you might as well stroll on over to take part in what seems like one of our main food groups, BBQ.  For those of you of the non-Southern persuasion, BBQ doesn't mean hamburgers and hot dogs, but rather smoked meat like pork shoulder, brisket and chicken.  Queen City Q also has a wide selection of traditional sides like collard greens, potato salad, and green bean casserole.

Worth the Drive Additions:

JJ's dogs have the Renzi stamp of approval

JJ's Red Hots: A hot dog joint with something from everyone now that a veggie dog has been added to the menu.  Seth and Rico can probably give you feedback on most dogs on the menu between the two of them.  I love the salmon sliders myself and their onion rings are delicious.

Bean Vegan: Bean is now open and there's a familiar face behind the counter with vegan chef, Charles, who some of you may recognize from the Info Booth at HeroesCon.  There's a lot on the menu to make both vegans and their meat eating friends very happy.  I recommend the pulled BBQ sandwich and the cowboy cookies (these are up there with some of the best cookies I have ever eaten! If you go to Bean, bring me some cookies!)


Heroes Neighborhood Additions:

Phat Burrito: That's right, Rob Ullman, there are two locations for you to choose from, one just down the block from Heroes.  Pick up a comic or ten and enjoy a pleasant stroll to work off that gigantic burrito you're about to consume.

The Central Burger at Joe Hooper's
Photo by Rico "The Belly" Renzi

Joe Hooper's Beverage and Sandwich Exchange: Seth and Rico love this new restaurant that features insane burgers and other delicious bar food.  They even top their Central Burger with a giant ball of fried mac and cheese.  Unhinging python jaw optional?

Hubee D's: If you're a fan of the delicious banned meat of Chew, be sure to check out Hubee D's, another Fat Friday favorite of some unnamed Heroes staff members.

Happy HeroesCon and happy eating, my friends! See you in two weeks!

UPDATE: I've been informed by Heroes' one and only, Shelton Drum, that not only will HeroesCon be taking place June 7-9, but Taste of Charlotte will also be going on in uptown.  This event gives you an opportunity to sample a number of Charlotte restaurants, just a short walk from the Convention Center.  For my vegan friends, ZiZi's Vegan (which is located more in the University area) will be set up, giving you another excellent vegan option!

I also had some suggestions from friends on some restaurants I missed on the first round.  Be sure to stop by Rick Fortenberry's booth at the Con and thank him for suggesting Mac's Speed Shop, Bill Spoon's BBQ, and Brooks Sandwich House.  The caveat to Brooks is they are only open Monday-Friday, 7am-3pm so you'll need to hit that for lunch on Friday or Monday.

Infertility isn't a four letter word, but damn, if it doesn't feel like one.

Our hiatus from the blog has lasted much longer than either of us anticipated.  I am back with a post that has nothing to do with either comics or music.  We are nearing the end of National Infertility Awareness Week founded by Resolve: The National Infertility Awareness Association.  

A few months ago, I received a diagnosis of infertility.  That diagnosis was probably a few months overdue, but I ignored what my body was trying to tell me because I didn't want the diagnosis that to me meant I was broken and defective.  I still feel that way some days, but I have found an amazingly supportive community online of women in the exact same situation.     Finding that community has enabled me to slowly come out to people about my own struggles with infertility.  

The current estimates are between 1 in 7 and 1 in 8 couples are dealing with infertility.  However many of those couples suffer in silence and, believe me when I tell you there is suffering.  Infertility has been one of the more painful things I've dealt with in my life.  We are still early in the process and don't yet have a clear answer as to what is causing the infertility.  I waiver between hope and despair each month as to modern medicine's ability to solve this issue.  

I don't share this brief bit of my story for pity or solutions, I share for others like me who have been enduring a painful silence to say that you're not alone and there is support out there, don't be afraid to look for it.

On that note, I'd like to share some links that I've found both helpful and comforting:

• Bitter Infertiles Podcast: the title is slightly misleading as the podcasts I have listened to have not felt bitter, but enlightening and educational.
• Redbook's The Truth About Trying: Redbook has put together a series of videos from women, men and couples discussing their struggles with infertility.  It's inspiring and will probably make you cry.  I know I did.  It also has a nice blog roll.
• There are also Facebook groups like Infertility Awareness and Infertility Awareness and Support Group started by women going through their own infertility and reaching out to support others.  

~Heather 

Upcoming Event: SPX 2012

SPX 2011

Outside of HeroesCon, my favorite type of comic shows are the small press shows.  I adore mini-comics.  Small press shows are a mecca of mini-comics.  The Small Press Expo (SPX) is two glorious days of mini-comics and other wondrous indie comic finds. 

It's a big year for SPX with a rather impressive list of special guests: Daniel Clowes, Chris Ware (one of Seth's favorites), Gilbert and Jaime Hernandez, Adrian Tomine, and Francoise Mouly. 

There's a big list of exhibitors this year (they sold out all of their table space!).  While I can't include everyone here I would like to highlight some of our favorite people, especially the North Carolina creators heading up this year. 

Some Favorites:

Animal Alphabet Mini Comic Cover by Ben Towle

• Lamar Abrams: In the aftermath of HeroesCon, it dawned on me that I totally missed seeing Lamar and his smile at this year's con, but never fear, SPX draws near so I can see what new fun he's bringing to the world of comics. 
• Adhouse Books: Chris Pitzer is sure to have an awesome collection of indie books.  We were lucky enough to pick up a copy of Jim Rugg's Notebook Drawings at HeroesCon and if you haven't flipped through this wondrous, pink spiral notebook yet, do yourself a favor and head over to Adhouse for this and more! 
• Alphabet Press: Back in 2011, a drawing challenge was issued by Rob Ullman and Ben Towle: each week following the letters of the alphabet, new animal drawings would be created and posted on tumblr.  The participation seemed to grow each week and when the end of the alphabet was reached with the animals, AlphaBeasts was born and then followed AlphaBooks which is currently ongoing.  This year at SPX, you'll find a table dedicated to these AlphaProjects with works including mini comics, postcards, flashcards, and prints from artists like Ben Towle, Rich Barrett, Sam Wolk, Issac Cates, and Rob Ullman. Some of the participating artists that are unable to attend SPX will be mailing Alphabet items in to the table organizers making this your one stop alphabet mini stop at SPX!
• Last Dollar Comics: At the last SPX, this was on my list for one comic: "Don't Mess with the Pink VooDoo Bunny", however instead of coming away with one comic, I walked away with the Total Package of all of his comics, plus a toy surprise.  It was awesome and I'm looking forward to visiting Last Dollar Comics again this year. 
• Alec Longstreth: I'm not sure it is possible or wise to discuss Alec without mentioning what might be the most well known beard in indie comics (maybe in all of comics).  Just do a google image search and you'll see what I mean (some people even keep time based on that beard!) [Update: I was informed via twitter that the beard is no more! A moment of silence for the beard.]
• Nobrow Press: If pretty European comics and art books are your thing be sure to stop by the Nobrow table and delight your eyes. 
• Chad Sell: Admittedly, I did not discover Chad through my normal comic channels, but rather Drag Queens.  One of the queens competing on the last season of RuPaul's Drag Race tweeted a portrait done by Chad and I knew I had to see more. I ordered both 30 Queens and Shadow Play and loved both books.  I cannot wait to come home with 40 Queens and maybe some prints for my Drag Race loving law partner and friend, Paula. 
• Ed Piskor: Ed might just be one of my favorite guys in comics.  He's super nice, interesting to talk to and has an extensive collection of Public Enemy attire.  Beyond that, he's just had his hacker web comic, Wizzywig published in a sweet hardcover.  Be sure to also check out Ed's Hip Hop Family Tree over on boingboing. 
• Jim Rugg: What is with these guys from Pittsburgh? Could they be any nicer? Not only is Jim talented on the page, but he shares the knowledge on his new podcast, Tell Me Something I Don't Know.  And as mentioned above, be sure to stop by the Adhouse table and pick up Jim's beautiful Notebook Drawings and marvel at what he does with a ballpoint pen. 
• Top Shelf Comics: Not only does Top Shelf have an excellent all ages comics section, but their graphic novels of late are nothing short of amazing.  If you haven't picked up Jeff Lemire's The Underwater Welder, be sure to stop by their table for a copy or two. 
• Ron Ullman: Do you like pretty ladies? (who doesn't?) You should stop by to pick up some pretty ladies of your very own from Rob (his are much less maintenance than real women).  Rumor has it that you may even be able to pick up some pretty lady art to wear, just in case you missed the super cute HeroesCon Indie Island shirt by Rob this year.  
• Joey Weiser: One of my favorite mini comic series has to be Mermin.  I love that adorable little sea creature on land.  If you haven't read Mermin yet, you're in luck as there are now five issues out for your reading pleasure. 

North Carolina:

Not only do all of these guys hail from North Carolina, but they all participated in the Alphabet drawing projects.  

AlphaBeast prints by Rich Barrett

• Rich Barrett: Based in Charlotte and member of the local sketch group, Sketch Charlotte, Rich is in the progress of publishing a graphic novel both page by page on the internet as well as in print.  Nathan Sorry is a twist on a 9/11 story in which the title character believed killed in the Towers is actually on the run with money and fake identity that he accidentally procured.  Rich plans to have both volumes one and two as well as Alphabet Press items.  This is his first time setting up at SPX. 
• Henry Eudy: Also planning his first time behind the table at SPX is another Sketch Charlotte member and one of the funniest and self-depreciating guys I know, Henry Eudy.  Henry will have a selection of minis, prints and original art.  
• Ben Towle: Ben is manning the Alphabet Press table, but he'll have some non-Alphabet related books with him (if not displayed on the table). Be sure to ask for Strikes, the Star Wars fan comic written by Ssalefish Comics' own Bret Parks and illustrated by Ben. 

I cannot wait to explore all the tables at SPX and fill my bag with mini comics wonders.  Be sure to check back here the week following SPX to see for yourself everything we picked up!  Seth and I will be there to check out the best indie comics around, and will have plenty of info and postcards about the Heroes Pop Swap, Charlotte Mini Con and HeroesCon '13.  If you see us make sure to say hello. 

Where:
Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center

5701 Marinelli Road.
North Bethesda, MD 20852

When:
Open to the public Saturday and Sunday, September 15 and 16, 2012.

Hours:
Saturday, September 15: 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sunday, September 16: noon - 6:00 pm

Admission:
One day memberships: $10.00
Weekend memberships: $15.00

Collected at the door the day of the show

Country Law Shack Intellectual Property Law: Sketch and Learn

Whether an artist or a writer, you know your work as a creator has value, but you may not be aware of how to protect your work legally.  You may not know what steps to take when you discover someone using your work without permission.  If you draw sketches or publish sketchbooks with licensed properties, you may be wondering if you are exposed to legal action for something you drew with innocent intentions. 

You can learn the answers to the above questions and more on August 23, 2012 at very first Country Law Shack Intellectual Property Law: Sketch and Learn during Sketch Charlotte's regular Thursday night meeting.  Paula Yost, United States Patent and Trademark Attorney, will be giving a free presentation on how to protect yourself, your art, and your talent. You will learn information you would normally have to pay for in a legal consultation and be able to ask questions in an open forum.  In addition, the Country Law Shack will be offering group discount rates for all IP work for qualified group members. 

If you are unable to attend this presentation and would like to have one for your own creators' group, please contact our office to set this up.  We will travel within reason to meet with your group. 

 

Feel free to send advance questions to paula@countrylawshack.com

You may also contact us by calling the Country Law Shack at 704-436-2214 or by emailing Heather at heather@countrylawshack.com

Sketch Charlotte meets on Thursday nights in various locations in Charlotte, North Carolina.  The August 23 meeting will take place at Showmars located at 2004 East 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204 across the street from Heroes Aren't Hard to Find.  The meeting will start at 6:30pm and end at approximately 9:00 pm.  Both Paula and Heather will be available for questions following the presentation. 

Comics Review: Chew

Art by Rob Guillory

Let me begin this review by saying, "Terence Hoskins, you were right.  I should have been reading Chew way before now.  You are a genius among men and your comic advice is not to be ignored."

Flipping through Previews a few months ago, I stumbled upon a cover of a comics I knew I must own, Chew: Secret Agent Poyo.  There was a wonderous rooster with metal parts.  Perhaps some of you are unaware of my love of giant metal chickens which started with this blog post. (This one shot just came out and reading it made me furiously happy.) How was I *NOT* reading a comic featuring a homicidal cybernetic rooster?!? This was a situation that needed to be remedied and fast!

Thankfully, Seth works at an excellent comic shop and loves to make me happy by bringing me glorious comics and Chew: Volume One was in my hands before I could fret too much over missing out on Secret Agent Poyo for so many months.  (Can I side-note for a moment on how much I love trades? Don't get me wrong, I love my single issues, but as far as being able to read through 4-6 issues with no ads in a sitting, trades are sheer comics pleasure.)

On its face, the premise of Chew isn't one I would typically select for myself.  It's rather gory when you contemplate special agents of the FDA that solve crimes (i.e. icky murders with yucky dead bodies) by biting the evidence.  That's right, they bite into those aforementioned dead bodies, chew them to pick up what looks like psychic visions or memories from that rotting flesh.  Grossed out yet? Here's the thing that makes Chew work for me: rather than super realistic way too detailed close of art of horror/crime books, these books have a lovely cartoon style to them.  Biting into some dead guy's arm looks funny rather than vomit inducing.

Chew also brings an interesting state of affairs in that after a particularly bad bout of bird flu, chicken consumption is now illegal in the U.S.  This explains why as mentioned above the FDA is now investigating things like murder.  There's a booming and dangerous trade in outlawed chicken.  You might be thinking, "Outlawed chicken?!? How interesting can that be?" Well, like anything enjoyed widely by the public, demand causes a black market to spring up.  Chicken is the new heroin and the dealers take their business very seriously.  There's also an undercurrent of a government conspiracy leading to the ban of chicken.

Chew assembles a fun and interesting cast of characters from Tony Chu, our lead character and Special Agent of the FDA due to his cibopathic abilities to his partner, John Colby, who becomes cybernetic after being critically injured during a stakeout to Special Agent Mason Savoy, another cibopath gifted with a fabulous mustache as well as Tony's brother, Chef Chow, who rebels against the chicken ban and his love interest, Amelia Mintz, a food critic.

All around, this is a fun read despite of the perhaps disturbing nature of the story.  I have now read the five volumes of trades that have been released to date and am eagerly awaiting the release of the sixth!  Chew is written and lettered by John Layman and drawn and colored by Rob Guillory.     


Bonus Review: Chew: Secret Agent Poyo is one of my favorite one-shots ever. "Poyo is just really, really bad ass." Writer, John Layman, took the words right out of my mouth.  This one shot focuses on Poyo's journey from fighting chicken to special agent.  It's wondrous and you should go by it now. 

Kickstarter Plea: Go back the Heroes Doc (please!!!)

I have a somewhat selfish plea for all of you: go back the Heroes Doc on kickstarter.  As of the writing of this post, the project is not fully funded and it deserves to be.  Am I coming from a bit of a biased stance in encouraging you to spend your money on supporting this documentary? Perhaps, but that doesn't make it any less worthy of your hard earned dollars. 

Some of you might be wondering why this would be a biased plea and I am happy to disclose my connections to the documentary.  Many of you know that Seth works for Heroes Aren't Hard to Find and I've been volunteering at HeroesCon since 2008 working myself up from volunteer to convention staff.  The wonderful guys behind the documentary have not only filmed interviews with both Seth and me, but our wedding reception in the Heroes store as well.  Of course, I am hoping to see those interviews and a joyous occasion in our lives captured in this documentary, even if only at a glimpse.  

However, I would be remiss not to tell you about all the hard work and long hours this crew has put in capturing, well, all the hard work and long hours the staff and family at Heroes puts into the running of both the store and the con.  Jere and Randy, two of the guys I know the best, actually managed to beat Seth and me to Heroes events (and we're generally the earliest ones there).  There have been lots of early mornings and late nights involved just in the filming of the Heroes Doc.  I can only imagine the time that will be put into editing all the great footage they've captured in what is sure to be a wonderful end product.  

You might be wondering what these guys have been recording since August 2011.  The answer would be a lot.  Not only did they cover special events like the Pop Swap, the annual December sale, the Mini-Con and Free Comic Book Day, but they captured the true behind the scenes work that gets comics from Diamond to your reserve bag every Wednesday.  There's a lot of work to make sure those copies of Wolverine and the X-Men, Wonder Woman, and the Walking Dead end up in the right bags as well as the shelves each week.  I've only assisted in the pull and re-order sorts and I got my fair share of paper cuts and chipped nails making sure comics get in their correct places.

Of course, the documentary captures all the work behind HeroesCon from all the prep the staff does to the actual convention itself.  There were somewhere between five to seven cameras capturing all the action of the 30th Anniversary of the show.  They were recording confessionals with attendees, guests and staff throughout the weekend.  I really want to see those cosplayer interviews I caught glimpses of from the Info Booth!!

Most importantly, the Heroes Doc captures the best part of Heroes Aren't Hard to Find: the family element.  I'm not talking about the biological connection between Shelton and his two kids, Shelley and Winslow, who both work at the store, but rather the feeling of a family you choose amongst the staff as well as the creators and fans that flock to HeroesCon each year.  HeroesCon is like a family reunion with all the relatives you like the most (ok, maybe with a drunk uncle or two thrown in, but hey, we can always use more humor in our lives).  I felt that connection more than ever last year, following the unexpected loss of my mother a week before the con.  No matter which direction I turned, someone was waiting with a hug, a kind word, something to eat or just a familiar smile.  Like any wonderful family, Heroes takes care of its own.

With that, I ask you sweetly, to make your way over to kickstarter and help the hard working guys behind the Heroes Doc fund this project that is so very close to our hearts here on the Exile blog.    

Further On Up the Road

Seth moderates the BPRD Panel at HeroesCon (l-r: Seth, Mike Mignola, Jason Latour, Paul Azaceta, James Harren)

I should start by publicly acknowledging my wife for picking up the bulk of Exile writing for the past few months.  As many of you know, I stepped away for a bit to help wrangle the behemoth that was HeroesCon's 30th Anniversary.  Since many of the con's highlights from her wrap up post were ones I shared, I won't talk too much about my own experiences from the con.  It's always humbling to help people further their comics experience, and always an amazing thing to talk, often about normal, day-to-day things with creators whose work I respect so much.  Conversations with experienced creators are always something that help build my confidence in my own work.  It's like studying at the feet of more learned people.  After recovering from this year's con, I'm excited to be back working on my own ideas again.

So what does that exactly entail?  One thing I've learned from my past experiences in music is not to show all my cards too early.  I feel comfortable in saying that at this point, I do have some other creative projects that I'm actively working on.  'Active' is the key word here because, often, past projects rarely got beyond the thinking or planning stage.  Learning about the craft of comics writing has been a challenging and rewarding experience.  Understanding that there are fundamental differences between comics writing and songwriting or journalism is an obvious but necessary lesson.  It's still probably premature to talk specifics about exactly what stories I'm working on, but those will come to light when it's time to talk about them.  

In the meantime, I'm going to continue to figure out ways of how to use things like poetry in a visual form.  It's also important that I continue to minimize the amount of unnecessary dialogue and verbal description.  This is, after all a visual medium, and far too many writers forget that.  Things like that seem silly and obvious, but look around the comic shelves and you'll see plenty of examples of excessive writing.  I'm learning that the best thing a writer can do when contributing to a comics story is to present an open enough idea that will be enjoyable for an artist to illustrate, then offer up ideas for different options of how to approach it.  This is, I suppose, a supplementary effort.  I don't ever want an artist to feel like I'm dictating every motion and pose on a page.  At best, it's some kind of collaborative result where writer and artist both feel like they're contributing to something bigger than the individual parts.

     

     There are a few different comic stories being worked on at the moment, I can at least say that.  I'm also still happily writing for the Heroes Blog, though some of my specific roles there will be changing a little bit in months to come.  It's all for the better, and all out of an effort to maintain enthusiasm for this medium I love so much.  My writing for Exile should be picking back up again, too.  I've started several little articles on music and comics, and hope to post once every week or so over the summer.  As for music, that boat may have finally sailed...or maybe it's more apropos to suggest I've lowered the anchor.  Both a lingering injury to my left hand and a recurring bout with tendonitis in my right wrist have limited any kind of productive work on the music front.  I'm slowly coming to terms with this, though I don't think I'll ever completely get music out of my system.  Maybe I'll get back around to it at some point.  Until then, there are other stories to tell. 

Heather's HeroesCon 2012 Wrap Up Report

Wow, another HeroesCon in the books and what a giant entry in the books the 30th Anniversary Show is.  I decided the easiest way to break down everything was a mirror of My Top 10 Things to Do with my list of favorite things from this year's show.  

1. Matthew, the Make-A-Wish Child:  HeroesCon was honored this year with the presence of a very special guest.  His name is Matthew and while he's not a name most of us would recognize, this little boy was the highlight of the weekend.  Matthew is 5 years old and has a terminal illness.  His wish was to meet Spider-Man.  I hope Matthew had as much fun meeting Spider-Man as we all had meeting him. 

Matthew and his family aren't the only families out there that need a wish granted.  Be sure to check out the Make-A-Wish Foundation page for all the sweet stories and ways you can help kids like Matthew make their wishes come true.

2. Friday Night's Drink and Draw:  With the second year behind us, I think we can now label this an annual event.  Thanks to everyone's art contributions, we exceeded the amount of money we raised last year for Team Cul de Sac.  Seth and I came away with some great art, including coasters by Evan Dorkin, Roger Langridge, Amy Mebberson, and James Silvani as well as a sketch portrait of Richard Thompson by first time attendee, Nick Galifianakis. 

3. Saturday Night's Art Auction: Speaking of great art, man, was the Art Auction full of it this year.  Seth and I opted to go paddle-less this year and just enjoy the auction without our competitive natures (ok, mostly my competitive nature) running away with us.  This also meant I had one had free for a beverage and the other for my camera.  The camera came in handy when Stan Lee surprised us with a visit.  After a greeting to the enthusiastic audience, Stan signed a beautiful piece by Phil Noto, then stepped back to enjoy the bidding process.     

4.  My Panels: Andy Mansell assigned me to two wonderful panels this year.  Last year would have been my first time moderating a panel, but I was too overwhelmed to take part.  I think that worked out for the best as my first panel was comprised of some of the nicest people in comics: Roger Landridge, Amy Mebberson, James Silvani, and Ramon Perez.  Not only were they so very easy to moderate, but each of them signed and sketched a Muppet on the panel sign that was outside my panel room.  I cannot thank Andy enough for the opportunity to moderate as well as making sure I got that sign.  My second panel with Skottie Young was also great.  Skottie is a joy to talk to and the audience had a lot of excellent questions for him. 

5.  Little John's Jack Daniels Chocolate Chip Cookies: Back around Christmas, Little John tweeted about making Jack Daniels Chocolate Chip Cookies.  I was so intrigued, that I wanted the recipe.  Unfortunately, this is a secret family recipe so I was not able to make these cookies myself.  However, while I was working at the Small Press Check-In on Thursday, John presented me with a dozen of these cookies for my very own.  Not only did these cookies make a wonderful snack for everyone working in Registration, but they also made a wonderful breakfast on Friday morning.  I hope these cookies become a HeroesCon tradition. 

6.  Small Press Check-In: Boy, does HeroesCon have a great group of creators setting up in Small Press each year.  I enjoyed meeting so many of them as they checked in on Thursday.  Everyone was nice and excited about participating and I was excited to hear how many of them were setting up for the first time this year.  It's great to see everything that bring with them from zombie kitchen wares to adorable stuffed characters to mini-comics and prints. 

7.  HeroesCon Volunteers: Did you know that Heroes Aren't Hard to Find has less than a dozen staff members? They all do a very impressive job, not only day-to-day, but also harnessing a con that exploded to over 25,000 attendees this year.  They couldn't do this without the tireless efforts of the volunteers that come from all walks of life to help out.  From line capping to greeting attendees to wrangling creators for their panels, no job is too big or too small for these ever capable volunteers to tackle.  Y'all are amazing!

8.  Awesome t-shirts: We had some great shirts this year, so great that we sold out of more sizes this year than we have since I started working at the Info Booth in 2008.  Both Jaime Hernandez and Rob Ullman gave us some great ladies to wear on the Con shirt featuring Love and Rocket's Maggie and Hope and the Indie Island shirt featuring a cute red head surrounded by super indie comics (including Love and Rockets!).  We also featured a uber-comfy Heroes Aren't Hard to Find tee and a Fun Run tee with art by Eric Cante (which did sell out completely). 

9.  Indie Island: Oh, Indie Island, what little free time I did have on the con floor was spent with you.  Oh, how I love your mini-comics, beautiful prints, and friendly and talented creators.  My favorite pick up of the con has to be the Retro Circus tote bag from Stephanie Buscema.  I started using it the Friday I bought it and it now makes my trips to the post office so much more fun.  If you missed this most useful and cute item, never fear!, it's available for purchase here. 

10.  Appreciation of the Earlier Generations of Creators: I love when our comic elders appear at the con and get the reception they deserve.  While I missed Irwin Hasen to the point of tears this year, it was nice to see the fans turn out for Walt and Louise Simonson, Nick Cardy and oh yes, Stan Lee.  I hope we'll all continue to appreciate these great creators.   

Bonus Pick: Pinky's tacos at the "Dead Dog" Party.  Pinky's set up a taco bar this year and it was so very delicious.  I partook of both the fish and tofu and loaded those suckers up with cheese and veggies.  I could have eaten a dozen of those and passed out happy.  (Well, I probably would have passed out from sheer exhaustion at that point anyway.) 

What to see more? Be sure to check out my flickr HeroesCon Collection for Days Zero-Three of HeroesCon as well as the evening events. 

Fighting the Post-Con Funk

So far this week as been dedicated to getting back to my real job and working to get over this post-con funk that has slowly creeped in and taken over my feelings about this past weekend.  I promise a full wrap up report on HeroesCon 2012 will be on its way after the weekend.  

While Seth's only task this weekend will be resting and taking care of his wrist that is currently in a brace due to de Quervain's tenosynovitis, I will beating down this funk with a girls' weekend that includes a viewing of Magic Mike on Saturday and a Drag Queen brunch on Sunday.  I sincerely hope that "It's Raining Men" is featured in both.  If strippers and queens aren't your thing, then let me direct you to some lovely con reports and my con photos to amuse yourself until my report appears on Monday.  

HeroesCon What-not, Links, and Etc.: 

• Henry Eudy poses as Shannon Smith
• Jason Latour waxes poetically  
• Josh Latta gets all well, Josh Latta-like 
• Roger Langridge posts HeroesCon sketches (I want them all) 
• Heroes Aren't Hard to Find Round-Up
• I took a lot of photos...
  

In the meantime, I've been reading the awesome comics that I was able to pick up in the small amount of time I was able to shop this year.  I've also found a way to make carrying legal stuff around much more fun thanks to an adorable tote bag from Stephanie Buscema.  I hope she makes a new one each year as I expect mine will get a lot of us.  

To borrow from Jason Latour, "More soon..."

Come See us at HeroesCon 2012!

Head over to the Charlotte Convention Center and see us at the 30th Anniversary HeroesCon! Starting tomorrow at 11am and running until Sunday at 6pm, we'll be surrounded by comics and awesomeness.  Heather will most likely be found at the Info Booth or on the con floor taking photos and Seth will at the Heroes Booth with lots of great comics and deals! Pick up HeroesCon t-shirts and affordable Stan Lee issues for the signings that will be taking place. 

On Friday night you'll find us working at the Drink and Draw hosted at Fuel Pizza right across from the Convention Center and on Saturday night you'll find us hanging out and relaxing at the Live Art Auction (which are two of Heather's Top Ten Things to Do at HeroesCon).

One of these things is not like the others!

We'll each also be moderating panels this year.  Heather will be moderating the Oz Discussion Group with Skottie Young on Saturday and  a Henson Properties Panel with Roger Langridge, Anne Ebberson, James Silvani  and Ramon Perez on Friday.   Seth will be moderating a B.P.R.D. panel with Mike Mignola, Jason Latour, Paul Azaceta and James Harran on Friday.  We've included the panel descriptions from the Program Book below.  

PANELS!!! (by us):

 Friday at 1:30pm
Room 203A
HENSON PROPERTIES
Roger Langridge, Amy Mebberson, James Silvani and Ramon Perez sit down with Heather Peagler to discuss the challenges of working with the Henson characters. There will be Q and A, but Mrs. Peagler will not accept any questions from the balcony. In your face Statler and Waldorf!

Friday at 2:30pm
Room 207ABCD
BPRD Roundtable
Because Peagler Really Digs (deep), we are having Heroes’ own Seth Peagler moderate this incredible panel featuring Mike Mignola, Jason Latour, Paul Azaceta and James Harren.  Only a Frog or a member of The Black Flame would stay away from this one!

Saturday at 11:00am
Room 203A
HEROES DISCUSSION GROUP #47
OZ with Skottie Young. Come and meet the new Wizard of OZ-- incredibly talented artist and storyteller Skottie Young. There are dozens of topics to discuss, like influences and the challenges of adapting a well-known work. And remember to pay attention to that person in front of the curtain--our Discussion moderator Heather Peagler!

We hope you'll stop by and say hi while enjoying all the great comics and guests put together by the hard working and dedicated Heroes staff.

HeroesCon is located at the Charlotte Convention Center in uptown Charlotte, NC.

 Charlotte Convention Center
501 S. College St.
Charlotte, NC 28202

ADMISSION:
1-day Pass: $15 per person
3-day Pass: $30 per person
Kids 12 & Under get in FREE!

SHOW HOURS:
Friday: 11AM-7PM
Saturday: 10AM-6PM
Sunday: 11AM-6PM

HeroesCon: Where to Eat 2012

It’s that time of year again: HeroesCon!!! Which means it is time for an update to the all-important where to eat while you’re here.  One of my favorite things about visiting different cities is finding the awesome local restaurants.  Hope the list gives you a jump start in finding a place that makes you and your tummy gloriously happy.  While this list isn't all inclusive, we tried to think of most of our area favorites.  Please feel free to share any we missed in the comments. 

Walking Distance:

Fuel Pizza: Home of the HeroesCon Drink and Draw and right across from the Convention Center, this local pizza chain sees a lot of business during the con.  With mult-grain and gluten free crusts as well as a number of veggie pizzas, you've got yummy and healthy options on the menu. 

Amelie’s Uptown: Sure they serve soups and sandwiches, but you should really go for dessert.  The salted caramel brownies are the best.  You can also pick up coffee to refuel for a busy day of comics.

King’s Kitchen: Southern food paired with a good cause makes this a popular uptown location.  King's Kitchen features both lunch and dinner hours and now features a new bakery as well. 

Room 112: Decently priced sushi and a warm atmosphere can be found at this little tucked away Asian restaurant.  It does get a little crowded at peak lunch hours with uptown workers so plan accordingly.  Featuring vegan and vegetarian menu items as well, this can be a good compromise for a mixed dining crowd. 

Basil Thai: More on the pricy side of Asian dining, but portion sizes do make you feel a little better about a $12 lunch entree.  It's also a popular lunch location.  Vegan and Vegetarian friendly.

Green’s Lunch: This is for the meat eaters in the bunch-go enjoy a hot dog with chilli for a vintage dining price.  Sure there are other items on the menu (even grilled cheese for the veggies in your group), but why bother? Seriously, my dad has been known to leave the empty bags in a co-workers truck to let him know he's been there without him. 

Mert’s Heart and Soul: I would be remiss not to include a link to this most delicious Southern restaurant (and fried chicken lovers would probably run amuck in the street at such a snub).  Mert's features lunch, dinner and brunch on both Saturday and Sunday (which answers the elusive question of where to eat breakfast uptown that isn't a hotel).  The veggie plate makes this an excellent suggestion for vegans craving some down home cooked vegetables as only the green beans are cooked in animal fat.  The collard greens bypass the usual ham/fatback treatment and are seasoned with fresh tomatoes and onions (and June will be full on local grown tomato season!). 

Alexander Michael’s: This local restaurant and tavern off the beaten uptown path in 4th Ward has a cozy sports bar feel to it (meaning it's a good place to catch up on all the sports news you missed on the con floor, but it won't annoy the non-sports fans among you).

Dean & Deluca: If you're craving a quick and tasty salad, stop in for the salad bar.  While some of their menu items can be on the pricey side, the salads are large and in a reasonable price range (especially for the uptown area). 

Heroes Store Area:

Fried Chicken and Sides by The Diamond. Photo by Rico Renzi

Crisp: Just two doors down from the store, this is a great place to grab a quick and healthy lunch.  Vegan and Vegetarian friendly.

Sunflour Bakery: If healthy's not you your thing, then cross Pecan and head to Sunflour and load up on delicious cupcakes and pastries.  There's also a wide selection of beverages from loose leaf teas to wine and beer to accompany the six flavors of cupcakes you had to try.  For breakfast (or any time of the day), I highly recommend the cheese biscuits! 

Cajun Queen: Enjoy the tastes of the bayou and live jazz just down the street from Heroes.

Dish: Homey Southern food that will comfort your soul after a long day on the con floor.  I think their tomato soup has healing powers.  Vegan and Vegetarian friendly.

The Diamond: Pig wings, fried pickles, and big block burgers, oh my! This old school diner full of all your fried food needs, plus some great blue plate specials.  Vegan and Vegetarian friendly.

Common Market: Sandwiches and salads, plus a large bottled drink and snack selection this local deli/market is a great place to grab a delicious quick lunch.  Very Vegan and Vegetarian friendly.  The hummus is very yummy!

Zada Jane’s: A super popular brunch location on both Saturdays and Sundays, this eclectic eatery is a great local place to check out.  Vegan and Vegetarian friendly. 

Soul Gastrolounge: This tapas bar above the 22 Gallery makes the most of local produce.  They have a pistachio pesto that will make you want to lick your plate, especially when paired with heirloom tomatoes.   Open for dinner and Sunday brunch.  Vegan and Vegetarian friendly.

John’s Country Kitchen: No frills diner with a great breakfast and delicious lunch specials.  Be aware they only take cash and are closed on Sunday.

Bistro La Bon:Delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere might seem slightly surprising when located in a strip mall, but don't let the outside deceive you.  Their buffet style brunch is amazing.  Chocolate Waffles!!!

Kickstand Burgers: From veggie to beef to shrimp, there's a range of options for the burger lovers among you. My favorite on the menu would be the tots which come in both the regular and sweet potato varieties (and can be ordered in a mix so you don't have to choose). Vegetarian friendly.     

Pinky's Pimpin' Fries

Worth the Drive:

South 21:Step back into history and eat at this drive-in restaurant.  My favorite onion rings in Charlotte should always be washed down with a Cherry Lemon Sprite. 

Bean Vegan:The Info Booth won't be the same place without Charles this year, so be sure to stop in and support his restaurant which will be opening soon.  His vegan cupcakes look amazing!! (Update: I have not been able to confirm opening date so please call (980) 939-1234 to check hours before driving out there.)

Pinky’s: We love Pinky's so much, they catered our wedding reception.  Their Pimpin' Fries (waffle fries smothered in their homemade Pimento Cheese) are a party in your mouth.  Another great location place for fried pickles.  Vegan and Vegetarian friendly.

CowFish: Sushi or burgers? Why decide when Cowfish has the best of both worlds? You can even order combos that mix the two.  

Food Trucks:

Cupcake by Cupcake Delirium with Cherry Lemon Sprite

The food truck trend has hit Charlotte! Check out our local trucks on twitter and follow them for locations and menus.  Cupcake Delirium makes those wonderful cupcakes that show up on my twitter and instagram feeds. You can also catch a lot of these trucks at Food Truck Friday located in the South End Charlotte Lunch Lot not far from uptown.  Food Truck Friday runs from 5pm-9pm.  Trucks do sell out so aim for earlier and be aware that bad weather may not permit some of the trucks to be out.


SCQ Mobile Cupcakery @southerncake

Cupcake Delirium: @onthegocupcakes

Roaming Fork:  @roamingforkNC

The Tin Kitchen: @TheTinKitchen

Goody Woody’s: @goodywoodys

Napolitanos: @NapolitanosMkt

The Herban Legend: @herban_legend

Maki Taco: @makitacotruck

Wingzza Truck: @WingzzaTruck
Clover Joes: @cloverjoes
Roots Farm Foods: @rootsfarmfood
Harvest Moon Cart: @HMGCart
Chef and Friends:@ChefandFriends
Dan the Pig Man:@danthepigman  

Auto Burger and Fry Guys: @AutoBurger
Smoke and Go:  @Smokengocafe
Red's BBQ: @redsbbq
Turkey And: @TurkeyAnd
Sticks and Cones: @SticksAndCones
Sal's Roadside Eatery: @SalsRdsideEatry

Sunday Options:

Mert’s Heart and Soul: See above in "Walking Distance".

Bistro La Bon: See above in "Heroes Store Area".

Zada Jane’s: See above in "Heroes Store Area".

Sunflour Bakery: See above in "Heroes Store Area".
Soul Gastrolounge: See above in "Heroes Store Area".

Vegan Options:
Bean Vegan:See above under "Worth the Drive"

Zizi's:While not a dine in option, the vegan restaurant delivers to the Convention Center zipcode, so if you're busy and craving vegan just give them a call.  Local Vegan expert, Herc Petmezas, swears by Zizi's.

In addition to the vegan specific restaurants, a lot of the restaurants listed above are vegan friendly. 

Convention Center Dining Options:
Delish Food Court: If you really don't want to leave the Convention Center, then the Delish Food Court is for you with choices of Bojangles, Einstein Brothers, and buon cibo. 
Starbucks: For all your caffeine needs within the Convention Center (there's also a couple of other Starbucks scattered throughout uptown.)

Chains:
Just check out the EpiCenter and the surrounding building for all your chain dining needs.  From Moe's to Chick-fil-a to Caribou Coffee to Jason's Deli (which is a good option for gluten-free dining), you can find most any familiar chains within walking distance.  As with all dining options on Friday, be sure to consider the uptown lunch crowds.  Going before noon or after one can help cut down on some of the lunch hour traffic. 


And now for something completely different..
Alcohol Isn't Hard to Find:
by Guest Blogger Ted Tarver

This is what Ted looks like. He owes you a drink.

Apparently, I’m the biggest degenerate Heather knows so I’m the person she asked to do a quick rundown of the bar scene in uptown Charlotte.  I still don’t know if I should be offended or not….

After a long hard day on your feet waiting in line, there’s nothing better than a nice adult beverage (classy) to soothe the pain away.  Here’s a quick list of places that can aid your buzz:

Your Room

You just dropped hundreds of dollars on a commission (even though the artist wouldn’t draw the character you wanted because he wasn’t “feeling it”).  Tomorrow, you’re shelling out to yell “EXCELSIOR!” at Stan Lee (no one has ever thought of that!).  The last thing you want to do is spend $10 on a vodka tonic downstairs at the bar.  Well, it’s a good thing you planned ahead and you have BOOZE IN YOUR ROOM!  Catch a ride or take a cab to the ABC Store at 3^rd and Cherry and take care of all your liquor-based needs beforehand.  Your wallet will thank you. 

The Westin Bar

Let’s not over-think it here.  The Westin Bar is where you’re going to find the highest concentration of Con attendees after hours and it’s a MUST VISIT Saturday night after the Heroes Art Auction. 

Pros: Frequent creator sightings and convenience (if you’re at any of the nearby hotels).  Saturday night is a BLAST. 

Cons: Usually only two or three bartenders working so the line can be crazy-long.  Drinks are night-club expensive.  Also, creators don’t like it when you interrupt their conversations to drunkenly critique their work.  What’s their deal? 

5^th and Tryon

Intersection that serves as home to several really cool bars including: Connolly’s (my favorite bar in all of Charlotte), Ri-Ra’s, Dandelion Market, Town Tavern and Prohibition.  Each bar has its own characteristics, but a common theme among them on Friday and Saturday night will be loud music, crowds and cover charges ($5 or less except for Prohibition, which can get up to $10 or $15).  Also, lots of cute girls out there for us to not talk to. 

The Epicentre

Huge entertainment block in uptown located at 4^th & College (you seriously can’t miss it).  Tons of different options here depending on what you’re looking for.  Also houses the two best late night dining options in uptown: Five Guys and Libretto’s. 

- Mez: a movie theater / bar.  Pro tip: After midnight, Mez charges a ton for cover and has a strict dress code.  You know who gets around that?  The folks who went to go see a movie at 9pm or 10pm and then lingered around as the transformation into night club takes place.  I do it all the time. 

- Strike City: bowling alley / sports bar.  Pro tip: Keep your eye on the clock.  Strike City charges by hour, not by game.  If you’re drinking and having a good time with your friends, you can easily burn up your lane time before you finish a single game. 

- Suite / Black Finn / Whiskey River: definitely the places to be if you’re looking to dance or meet someone (hahaha, let’s be realistic…none of us are going to these places). 

Hope that helps you get your buzz on.  If you want some more information, I’ll be the handsome guy at the Dollar Bin table located in Indie Island.  If you see me out and about, first drink’s on me. 

Legal disclaimer: Ted will not actually buy you a drink.