I’m a little late to the party, I know, but I really needed a day to gather my thoughts before I wrote my tribute to Mr. Burton Leon Reynolds, Jr., who passed away yesterday at the age of 82.  Cause of death was listed as a heart attack.

I grew up in Tampa, and if there’s one thing that Floridians were always proud of it was that Burt Reynolds was one of us!  Yes, he was born in Michigan but at age 10 he and his family made their way to the Sunshine State, so he’s one of ours!

Burt became an actor by accident.  He attended Florida State University on a Football Scholarship (in high school he had been named both ALL STATE and ALL SOUTHERN as a fullback).  In his sophomore year, he injured his knee.  He later injured the other knee, and ruptured his spleen, in an automobile accident.  These injuries hampered his ability and, seeing his dreams of playing professional football dashed, he decided to look for a career.   After hearing him read Shakespeare in English class, his professor convinced Reynolds to try out for a play he was producing, called Outward Bound.  Reynolds won the lead role and, for his performance, was given the Florida State Drama Award.

With the award came a summer at the Hyde Park Playhouse in New York.  There Burton met actress Joanne Woodward, who introduced him to agents in the area.  This lead to his first appearance on Broadway, in the play Look We’ve Come Through, earning good reviews.  He went on the road with the show but soon found himself out of work.  However, he soon found himself in the company of Mister Roberts, with Charlton Heston in the lead role.  The play’s director got Reynolds an audition for the film Sayonara, but that film’s director, Joshua Logan, informed Reynolds he couldn’t use him as he looked too much like the film’s star, Marlon Brando.  Logan did encourage Reynolds to go to Hollywood, where he soon found himself in small roles on television.

His big break came when he starred on the television show Riverboat.  He gained more fame when he joined the cast of Gunsmoke as Quint Asper, a “half-breed” blacksmith.   As his success in television grew, he began doing films, including Angel Baby and Navajo Joe.  Reportedly producer Albert Broccoli asked Reynolds to be George Lazenby’s replacement as James Bond, but Reynolds turned him down, being unable to imagine an American playing the British secret agent.

Reynolds ascended to star status with his role in the film Deliverance.   The film, coupled with Reynolds appearing as the centerfold of “Playgirl” magazine began a run of success that would, by the end of the decades, see him named as the most popular actor in Hollywood.

His meteoric box office run included such films as The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing, White Lightning, Gator, The Longest Yard, Lucky Lady and the second most popular film of 1977:  Smokey and the Bandit (damn you, Star Wars!)  1978 gave us all a double shot of classic Reynolds, as both Hooper and The End are released.

As the 1980s rolled in, he continued his streak with roles in Smokey and the Bandit 2, Cannonball Run, Best Friends and Paternity.   He also took more interest behind the camera, directing several of his films, including Sharky’s Machine, which was both a box office and critical success.  Having released an album in the early 70s, Reynolds was a natural to star opposite Dolly Parton in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.  He later went on to star on the long running television series Evening Shade, earning an Emmy as Best Actor in a comedy.

Though he has played many an iconic character, Reynolds also turned down many roles that made other actors stars.  Besides James Bond, he turned down the role of Han Solo in Star Wars, Michael in The Godfather and John McClain in Die Hard.  The one role he regrets turning down was one written especially for him, that of former astronaut Garret Breedlove in Terms of Endearment.  Citing a promise to his friend Hal Needham to do the film Stroker Ace, Reynolds turned the role down.  The part was given to Jack Nicholson, who would go on to win the Academy Award as Best Supporting /Actor for his work.  The one role he’s glad he turned down?  Edward, the lonely businessman played by Richard Gere in Pretty Woman.  Reynolds actually repeatedly turned down the role that would bring him his only Oscar nomination, that of Jack Horner, the adult film director in Boogie Nights.

We at Media Mikes have many fond memories of Burt Reynolds.  Both Mikes (and our wives) met up in New Jersey, where Reynolds was scheduled to be a guest at the Chiller Theater convention.  Due to scheduling reasons, Reynolds could not attend, but we spent the weekend making each other laugh as we all tried to impersonate Reynolds classic, high pitched “Ha-ha!” laugh.  In 2011, Mike G. got the envious job of getting to interview Reynolds for the site.  You can read that interview HERE

And if you want to hear that classic laugh, click HERE.

Last year my wife gifted my son and I gift cards to the new-to-Kansas City attraction known as TOPGOLF..  TOPGOLF is basically an elevated driving range with various targets which you can hit to score points while competing against your friends.  Sounds fun, I know, but the constant hassles are not worth the energy and time spent.

Depending on where you live, the hourly rates may differ from the ones in KC.  Here the cost is $25 an hour if you go before noon, $35 an hour between noon and five o’clock and $45 an hour after five.  We got there at 11:30 a.m. and were sent to one of the elevated tees.  We were going to play for two hours (thinking since we were there before noon that the cost would be $50.00) but learned that, even if you’re there before noon, once the clock strikes “12” the price goes up.  Not wanting to pay $60 we elected for play for 90 mins at a cost of $42.50.

My son “signed in” to the game and his name appeared on the screen.  We tried to “add a player” but were unable to.  I finally signaled one of the employees and he came over.  We explained the situation and he said that I’d have to pay $5.00 to add my name.  I told him we had already paid for the time and he told me that there is also a $5.00 charge to come in.  It reminded me of the old casinos here in Kansas City -when they first opened you had to pay a $15.00 “docking fee” to go inside.  That’s right…you had to give them money for them to allow you to spend your money!  I agreed to pay the five bucks and we began hitting balls.

At TOPGOLF, if you want a ball you have to wave your club over a sensor, which then has a machine spit a ball out.  Sadly for us, you had to wave your club over the sensor repeatedly…sometimes five or six times…before a ball came out.  The constant wait for a ball obviously ate into our time.  Also, we would alternate our shots but sometimes, even though I was noted as the player up, after I hit the ball it would suddenly change to my son and award him the points.  At 12:15 everything stopped and a message on the screen told us we had 15-minutes left to play.  As we had signed up for 90-minutes we were surprised to see this.  After a few minutes I tracked down the same employee.  Again he came over and pushed some buttons.  “You only paid for an hour,” he told us.  “No,” I said, “we requested 90 minutes.  The cost was $42.50.”  Again, he had to push some buttons.  The whole exchange probably took another five minutes off of our playing time.  I mentioned that and he shrugged.  It was obvious he could care less.  I jokingly said to my son, “well, this isn’t going to look good in my write up.”  As if I had flicked a switch, he immediately showed some interest in us, asking if there was anything he could do for us.  I told him “no.”  A few minutes the manager approached us and asked the same thing.  I explained to her all of the problems we had had and how we had probably lost 15-minutes of our time to glitches.   Obviously she felt that, despite hearing about all of the problems we had had, none of them qualified for the “something I can do” request to be followed up with actually doing something.  No “I’m sorry, let me extend your time” or “I’m sorry, let me get you a pass to come back another time.  Like the previous employee, she just shrugged.  She walked away, we finished up and left.

Maybe when everything is working properly TOPGOLF is a fun time.  But if I’m going to drop $45, I’m going to play 18 holes.

There have been talks in New Jersey surrounding the decriminalization of marijuana which has sparked a lot of mixed reactions from various constituents around the state. In fact, many have a differing opinion as to whether this is the right move to make or not.

There is a marijuana bill with issues surrounding both recreational and medical marijuana that is currently being reviewed. This bill proposes the expansion of the medical marijuana program and the legalization of possessing and using marijuana for adults above the age of 21 years. If this bill is to become law, the possession of an ounce of marijuana will immediately be decriminalized.

With that said, here are 5 things you should know about marijuana decriminalization in New Jersey:

• It Will Result In An Increase In Marijuana Dispensaries

New Jersey currently has 6 medical marijuana dispensaries. With the passing of the bill to decriminalize marijuana, the result will be an increase in the number of these dispensaries. There is a possibility of hundreds of recreational dispensaries being set up across the state along with medical marijuana stores.

It is proposed that for each of the 40 legislative districts in Jersey there be at least two recreational dispensaries and an extra 40 in other places around the state. These dispensaries will be established systematically as the reported number of marijuana patients increases.

• Predefined Places For Using Marijuana

With the decriminalization of marijuana, there would be predefined places in New Jersey where people would be allowed to consume it openly. In each of the marijuana dispensaries that is set up, there will be a lounge where people who’ve just bought the marijuana can consume it.

This is a progressive move for consumption in the public space as it was previously limited to consumption within a private residence.

• Marijuana Taxes Will Be Applicable

There are marijuana taxes that will be applicable with its decriminalization. In the initial year, recreational marijuana will attract a 10% exercise tax for each purchase which will progressively increase to 15% in the following year. This will then grow to 20% in the third year followed by an increase to 25% in the 4th year and remain that way in the subsequent years that follow.

It is estimated that the New Jersey market will make around $300 million in tax revenue every year from marijuana. Medical marijuana tax will be eliminated after 3 years. Patients currently pay 7% tax.

• Reduction Of Marijuana Related Crimes

Decriminalizing marijuana is expected to ultimately reduce the number of people and the record of crimes related to marijuana in New Jersey. There will be lesser people being convicted and taken to prison because of it.

• Possible Clearance Of Old Marijuana Arrests

Decriminalization of marijuana in New Jersey comes with the possibility of clearance of old marijuana arrests. People with recorded convictions of possession of marijuana in low-levels will be eligible for clearance of their charges but they will be required to apply for clearance.

There is a bill that has been introduced that will Expunge a Marijuana Charge in NJ. The expungements are expected to be automatic. The bill is however still being reviewed.  

A VPN is a great tool that can benefit pretty much anyone who accesses the Internet regularly, although is much more usable for certain people than others. Read this article and find out what VPNs are, what are their benefits, who they are especially useful for and how to choose the best VPN provider for your needs.

What is a VPN?

VPN stands for virtual private network. It extends a private network across a public network, which enables its users to send and receive data over public networks to each other as if they were connected to a private network, for example sitting in the same office building.

Virtual private networks were created for the business world, as they allowed remote workers or branches of the same company to work together as if they were located in the same building, while taking advantage of the security that comes with VPNs.

Why people use VPNs

However, VPNs are now widely used outside of the business world, too. There are two main benefits that make them more and more popular and useful:

• Security and protection of personal information, identity and location
• Circumvention of geo restrictions and blocking implemented by various websites and online services

The first benefit is pretty straight-forward. VPNs add an extra layer of protection to your internet and network usage. That is especially useful if you change location often and connect to the internet from multiple locations and maybe even networks with questionable security. You can be sure you’re browsing the internet and communicating online privately and securely, even when connected to an unsecured network.

The ability to circumvent geo blocking is even more useful to many people. Since you are establishing a secure connection with a server located in another country, you will seem to be in that country as well. This is useful for many types of websites that implement geo blocking, such as:

• Netflix is a great subscription streaming service. It’s available pretty much everywhere by now, but the selection of movies and series is nowhere near as vast as in the US in many countries. Although Netflix is not happy about it and tries to block known VPN servers, you can still access Netflix through a VPN and enjoy a full content database, but you need to choose a good VPN provider so that Netflix doesn’t block your access.
• Online casinos. Web-based gambling operators generally only accept players from certain countries and there is no way around that. However, some countries have implemented their own blocking system that doesn’t always make sense or is good for the players. VPNs offer a good way to go around this, although it’s advisable to check the local regulations first.
• Local television when traveling abroad. National TV stations often broadcast over the internet, but access is almost always limited to just people in the country. That shouldn’t be an issue if your VPN makes it seem that you are in your home country, even if you are on the opposite side of the globe.

But that’s not all. Some countries have really vast internet censorship and something like a VPN can help people from such parts of the world enjoy a more free and unrestricted browsing experience and get to information they otherwise wouldn’t be able to.

How to choose the best VPN provider

If you already tried looking for a VPN to use for free or purchase, you know there are countless sites offering comparisons and linking you mostly to the premium VPNs you will have to pay for. There are also free VPN services and servers, although their quantity and quality of servers is generally nowhere near that of premium VPN services.

Some VPN services are extremely easy to use, although their functionality might be a bit limiting to advanced users. A great example of this is TunnelBear. If you are a beginner, it might be a good choice for you, but if you require advanced functionality, it’s best for you to look further.

There are many more advanced VPN services with better functionality, that are still quite easy to use and don’t require strong technical knowledge on the user’s side. Services like ExpressVPN, NordVPN or IPVanish offer a great balance of usability and rich functionality.

It’s impossible to pick the best VPN service for everyone. Some excel in security, other offer great selection of servers from a big number of countries and some might have features that their competition simply doesn’t. When looking for a VPN, make sure to think about what you want to use it for and select accordingly. And make sure to read best VPN reviews, as they might be really useful in helping you pick the best option for you.

Juul devices have become a common item amongst teenagers, especially those in affluent neighborhoods. This popularity comes not just from the trendy design of the device, but also because it allows them to avoid most of the negative effects of cigarettes. Juuling, as it’s now popularly called, allows one to smoke nicotine without the tar that causes bad breath and other health issues. But for most young people, the fun is not just in the Juuling, but also in the aesthetics of the Juul device. That’s why many people are constantly looking to upgrade their Juul devices, and stand out amongst their peers. In case you want to upgrade yours, here are 4 tips to upgrading your Juul device on a budget.

• Wrap it

One of the best ways to upgrade your Juul device is by wrapping it. Juul wrappers come in different labels depending on your tastes and preferences. For instance, if you are into politics, you can get one that has a label of your favorite political figure. Basically, it all boils down to what you feel makes look cool as you Juul.  The best thing is that Juul wraps are not expensive. You can get a cheap juul wrap from a trusted vendor such as wraps studio. They not only sell them cheap, but also do free shipping.

• Refill it with a 0mg nicotine-free liquid

Juul devices were originally meant for smokers, trying to quit. However, it’s now a cool trend, and if you don’t want the nicotine aspect to it, then you can always try adding a nicotine-free liquid, in your device. This allows you to get the cool feel of Juuling, without inhaling any nicotine. The best part is that these nicotine-free liquids are very affordable, and make for the perfect upgrade. You get to maintain a cool image, while staying healthy at the same time.

• Ask your friends for advice

If you vape, then you probably know a couple of friends who do too. Since they most likely also use Juul devices, ask them for help with regards to upgrading your device. You will be surprised that they know of a few tricks on how to upgrade your Juul on a budget. Besides, you can join hands and do upgrades together. This way, you cut on the costs of the upgrades, while at the same time keeping the cool effect that comes with using a Juul device.  

• Join online vaping forums

There are lots of online forums for people who enjoy vaping. These forums can be on social media or other platforms such as Reddit. Once on these forums, ask for tips on how to upgrade your Juul device on a budget. You will get lots of creative ideas from fellow vapers who use Juul devices from all across the world. You will also get to learn of the latest trends in vaping, and how you can jump on the bandwagon.

Related Content

• 2018 Holiday Season Gift Guide Kick Off!
• Why VPNs are useful and how to choose the best one
• “TOPGOLF” – A waste of time and money
• Behind the Screen: Remembering Burt Reynolds
• Could Online Casinos Replace Land Casinos?

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• 5 Things You Should Know About Marijuana Decriminalization In New Jersey
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Over the years, Media Mikes has mentioned Joel D. Wynkoop.  A long time Tampa friend of mine, Joel is known for his locally produced horror films and is quite the cult hero in (and beyond) the Sunshine State.  He also has his own magazine that not only promotes his work, but the work of other aspiring actors in Florida.

The on-line site Creative Loafing Tampa Bay is compiling votes for its 2018 BEST OF THE BAY contest and Joel has been nominated in the category of Best Actor.  I’m hoping you readers will click HERE and, in the category of Best Actor, cast a vote for Joel.  For some reason, nominees are listed alphabetically by FIRST name, so look for Joel under the “J’s.”

For a look at some of Joel’s work, click HERE

Thanks!

Media Mikes is excited to be working with Feld Entertainment again to bring our readers a wonderful opportunity to win a family 4-pack of tickets to the upcoming Disney on Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party at the Amway Center in Orlando, FL.  If you want to win this great prize, please leave a comment below or email us with what Disney character would you love to see make an appearance at a Disney on Ice show!This giveaway will remain open until August 24th at Noon, Eastern Time. This is open to our readers in Orlando, FL only, no travel included. One entry per person, per household. All other entries will be considered invalid. Media Mikes will randomly select winners. Winners will be alerted via email.

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party brings the magic closer to fans than ever before through dynamic and immersive moments that take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats when the show comes to Amway Center in Orlando September 7-9, 2018 for six performances. Produced by Feld Entertainment Inc., the worldwide leader in live touring family entertainment, Disney On Ice is once again elevating the ice show experience with brand-new engaging elements that will fascinate both newcomers and seasoned guests, alike. Tickets are on sale now at DisneyOnIce.com.

Joined by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, live hosts will enliven the performance space by welcoming everyone into the magical world of Disney On Ice, setting the stage for a participatory adventure. Guests will embark on a search for clues to find Tinker Bell after Captain Hook tries to capture her magic. As each scene unfolds, compelling storytelling will be delivered through multi-level production numbers by skaters, performers and acrobats, alike. As Miguel from Disney●Pixar’s Coco crosses the Marigold Bridge, he finds himself in the magnificent spirit realm painted with vibrant color, with skeletons atop sway poles oscillating back and forth over the audience in this culturally rich, heritage celebration. Through video projection, Arendelle builds from the ground up, and ice harvesters from Disney’s Frozen use extreme skating to launch themselves from the mountainous, wintry slopes delivering an athletically-driven performance as they chop their way through blocks of ice. The iconic chandelier seen in “Be Our Guest” comes to life as Belle and the enchanted objects from Beauty and the Beast become a rotating carousel using aerial silks and lift upward into the air, mesmerizing onlookers seated above and below.

Media Mikes is excited to be provided a special discount for our readers: Save 20% off select seats with code SAVE20. Not valid on premium VIP seating. Hurry for the best available seats! Code expires September 6, 2018.

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Mickey’s Search Party will feature a collection of Disney characters fans know and love portrayed by decorated performer-athletes who push the boundaries of what is possible. Their theatrical talent, combined with this innovative Disney On Ice production, elevates the live entertainment experience and will leave families with memories that will last a lifetime.

Ticket Prices: Starting from $18. For ticket information, visit DisneyOnIce.com.
Orlando Show Times: Friday, September 7, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, September 8, 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, September 9, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Venue: Amway Center, 400 W. Church Street #200, Orlando, FL 32801
Stay current on the latest developments through social media, including instructions on how to access presale codes for future Disney On Ice productions:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DisneyOnIce
Twitter: @DisneyOnIce #DisneyOnIce #MickeysSearchParty @NicoleFeld (Show Producer)
YouTube: www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce
Instagram: @DisneyOnIce @feld_nicole (Show Producer)

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About Feld Entertainment:
Feld Entertainment® is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, Disney On Ice, Disney Live!, Marvel Universe LIVE!, Sesame Street Live!, DreamWorks Trolls The Experience (coming Fall 2018) and Jurassic World Live (coming Fall 2019). Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 75 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information.

I am a Feld Entertainment Blogger Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and other exclusive opportunities.

Having muscle mass can be of great significance to your body and health in general. It increases the rate of metabolism in your body, which is essential for controlling weight. You will also have increased strength, which makes it easier for you to carry out difficult tasks and other physical activities effectively. Working out is one good way to increase muscle mass.

High-intensity interval training using the right equipment will help you bulk up. Using legal steroids is essential for your workouts because they provide you with endurance and also increase your muscle mass. The anabolisant is one legal steroid you can try out. You can get them from various online stores and select shops.

We have witnessed quite a number of bodybuilders make it to different movie casts. Back in the day, seeing a bodybuilder as a cast member in movies left many in awe. This is because they were not regarded as actors by most people. However, things have changed over recent years.

Bodybuilders are playing the lead acts in many movies, which is different from the past when they were given minor roles. Aspiring bodybuilders should watch the following movies that feature big muscle guys.

Stand Tall

During the mid-70s, professional American bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno retired from bodybuilding to pursue an acting career. He starred as the Hulk in The Incredible Hulk TV show, which was released in 1977. His muscle build up was the main reason why he landed that lead role.

Predator

The movie, which was released in 1987, features Arnold Schwarzenegger, a renowned bodybuilder, as part of the main act. Schwarzenegger has proved on several occasions how he can use his muscle strength to outpower any human who comes his way. Other characters with an impressive muscle definition in this movie include Jesse Ventura, who is a professional wrestler, and Carl Weathers.

The Perfect Physique

This is a bodybuilding documentary that was released in 2015. The film takes an in-depth look at the different professional bodybuilding competitors. Some of the physique challengers featured in this documentary include Sadik Hadzovic, Jeremy Buendia, and the departed Greg Plitt.

The Bodybuilder and I

This is a 2007 movie that features one of the oldest professional bodybuilders. 59-year-old ‘Grandmaster’ Bill Friedman is the main act in this field. In this movie, he reunites with his son Bryan as he attempts to get back to the top by winning back his senior bodybuilding award.

Generation Iron

This is one of the most famous bodybuilding documentaries, which was released in 2013. Generation Iron is a film that covers some of the best bodybuilders of the century like Kai Greene, Phil Heath, Dennis Wolf and Branch Warren. There are also special appearances from other greats like Lou Ferrigno and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Pumping Iron

This is a factual film that focuses on some of the most professional bodybuilding competitions. Mr. Olympia 1975 and IFBB Mr. Universe, which happened during the same year, are the competitions highlighted in this documentary. Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of the top competitors featured.

5 Things to Look for in a Dab Rig

Dabbing is the latest trend with a whole lot of celebrities doing it. The direct effect of smoking weed is intensified. With dabbing being in vogue currently, simply smoking weed, traditional style is so not cool. But then, the whole process of dabbing may look cumbersome to some especially if you haven’t heard about glass dab rigs. Even those who love it, often make some mistakes in getting their perfect dab rig. So, how do you make it right?

The Top Things to Look for To Make the Right Dab Rig Choice

Here are a few of the things that you need to look for when it comes to choosing the right dab rig.

Here is what you need to do to make things simpler for you.

• Look at the Function:

Not everyone needs the same dab ring. Smaller ones will get you a direct hit within seconds. If you are more into a prolonged and slow hit, get the bigger one. Many do need it just for decorative purpose. In this case, you need to get the perfect look. So, always get your dab rig purpose in place and then venture out for buying.

• Know the Nail material:

Dab nails come in all sorts of variety. The glass ones are the cheapest. But they are most fragile. Then you have got quartz ones, ceramic and titanium nails. But the best of all is the metal nail. It is most durable. These days, e-nails are most popular. They heat up themselves and spare you the process of heating up on an open flame.

• Is it Going to be Cost effective For You?

While e-nails are the safest, they are also the costliest. Always pay attention to your budget. This way, you will be able to enjoy dabbing for long. Otherwise, all your money will be gone in getting an e-nail with no money to spare for the weed.

• What are the Safety features on offer?

When buying a dab rig, pay equal attention to the safety features. Not that it has many but d pay attention to how the dome is located. Also, look for the material. Otherwise, it may break while dabbing causing serious damage to your face. It should have enough space for you to heat it up.

• What is the Type of torch?

You will need a torch for lighting up the dab. Go for the butane one. Never get a big torch. It will make it hard for you to manage the heating. Also, never get a propane lighter. It is unsafe as well as heats fast. With fast heating, you might not be able to enjoy the dab.

Dabbing is the coolest way to smoke weed. You get to prepare for it and with ample sophistication, you get an instant high. Not only that, with bigger dab rigs, you can even opt for smoother hits. So, let yourself indulge in this latest trend and be the coolest kid in the city.

Some might wonder about the experiences San Diego Comic Con has to offer given that all the information and trailers released at panels drop onto the Internet a short time later, and in some instances before the panel is even set to begin. Some could simply live it through other’s photos or through their favorite Youtube personality. But I urge those with a tingling sense for adventure, or even a nerdy bone in their body, to attend.

As I stated in my article last year, when I was a newbie, that no matter how much research beforehand is done, you’re going to miss out on something. In my second year of attendance, that still holds true. As I heard from several veterans, it’s finding what you want to do and prioritizing it by day. This year I went with an offsite and inside approach. I’d start out my days checking out the sights and sounds before heading in and joining the indoor spectacle.

For a handful of hours Wednesday night, the massive vendor and exhibit hall was opened for thousands. It’s known as Preview Night. Most in attendance were ready to snag some merchandise while others, like me, simply took in all the sights and sounds. Folks with multiple bags of merchandise scurried about while others waited in lines for several booths and exhibits. The hottest spots were at Funimation, Funko, Hasbro, “The Walking Dead” area and a few usual suspects.

For those without a chance to step inside the hallowed grounds of the convention center, the outdoor areas provided some much needed fun, rest and goodies. “The Purge” offsite was literally handing out shirts, as people got to take some play money and purchase exclusive merch with that play money. It was one of the best offsites in terms of simplicity and swag. “Jack Ryan” offered a training ground, gear and (from what I read on Twitter) free money to those ballsy enough. Adult Swim, in the evening hours, opened up a mock camp site as the sun began to set. But when the sun set, “Adult Swim” staples entertained the masses until the midnight hours. The crown jewel of everything outside though was the “DC Universe” offsite where they offered food, drink, previews of games and shows, a Harley Quinn room and an escape room.

Meanwhile, others kept pace by offering simple things. FXHibition is where folks got to take pictures with some items representing their favorite show. The Experience near PetCo Park also offered a lot in terms of a place to stop for a quick bite to eat, or one of their interactive displays, including an escape room. Escape rooms seemed to be the hot thing this year as several other offsite events had an escape room, something I encourage as escape rooms slowly become even more popular. Even offsites like the Nerdist House scored huge points in my book just by offering free food and drink to those who were smart enough to search it out.

Inside, I managed to once again avoid Hall H. That didn’t stop me from getting curious when I read about some experiences on the Hall H line being easier than in years past. The reason, or the truth, behind those tweets are up in the air. Maybe next year I’ll camp out and see what all the fuss is about in the Hall where folks got a preview of “Halloween,” DC movies and an evening with Director/Writer Kevin Smith.

Don’t be discouraged though. Other rooms offer their own treats, whether it be exclusive footage or on-stage appearances by other celebrities. I found myself inside Ballroom 20 for Marvel’s “Cloak and Dagger” only to be treated to the breaking news announcement that a second season had been confirmed by the creator during the panel. Once inside and away from the Exhibit Hall, you’ll find something fun to sit in on or a group of people with the same interests that you can chat it up with.

The takeaway from fans inside was one of pure joy. Sure the long waits, sweat, frustration, and sometimes ineffectiveness of how things work can bear down on you. But when you unpack the gear you snagged and look through the pictures, you know it’s an event you’re happy to have been apart of. And part of you, just like me, will want to go back and do it all over again. If you’ve been on the fence in the past, it’s time to get off that fence and grab a plane ticket. SDCC 2019 is next July 17th-21st, so mark your calendars and start digging through the couch for some loose change.

PHOTOS BY DAN LYBARGER

A few years ago I wrote a very scathing review of the Kansas City Crypticon Convention.  I felt my review was honest and it was based on not only my own observations but those of people I spoke with, both convention guests and attendees.  While I continued to attend each year, I didn’t write anything about the show because I didn’t want it to look like I was uncaring or that I was just looking to continually kick the organization.

Last year the show left the nasty hotel (recently torn down by the city) it called home and headed an hour north up Interstate 29 to the birthplace of Jesse James:  St. Joseph, Missouri.  I wasn’t able to attend last year because of a previous commitment that weekend but this year I decided to check it out.  And what I discovered was a pretty cool con.

The show was held at the St. Joseph Civic Center, and I thought the layout was perfect.  The bottom, open middle section was set up for the dealers.  Whereas in Kansas City the dealers rooms were always cramped and hard to navigate, here they were a breeze to explore.  Plenty of room, and a nice selection of goods.  The upper level was devoted to a few dealers and ALL of the celebrity guests.  The area was bright and clean and every celebrity had a very nice banner, as opposed to the construction paper and magic marker creations from the past.

And the celeb lineup was first class.  As this is mostly a horror-themed convention, the guest list was perfect.  Linda Blair from The Exorcist.  Nick Castle and P.J. Soles from Halloween.  William Kaat from Carrie.  And, for fans of more recent horror, you couldn’t do any better than “American Horror Story’s” Dennis O’Hare.  These guests, and about a dozen more, greeted fans and many of them (especially the Halloween gang) seemed to have a steady line at their tables.  Autograph/photo op prices were pretty reasonable as well, which is always a good thing at one of these events.

Congratulations to the people behind the Crypticon conventions.  You’ve done an amazing job in transforming your show from one of the worse in the Midwest to a destination event.  I look forward to next year.

No hard feelings?  🙂

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The Perfect Phone Accessory: Wallet, Kickstand and Grip All-in-One

Monet is beauty and function for your phone. The ultimate fashion accessory for the on-the-go minimalist. It’s an extension of your hand with its easy slip on grip that provides a secure hold on your phone while taking better selfies. That same grip becomes your kickstand and Monet is a sleek wallet to hold money and cards. It’s currently available in 30 color variations with more colors currently in production. Monet is your 3-in-1 phone grip and the only accessory you need for a busy lifestyle:

The Gym
Pilates
Coffee dates
Meeting for brunch
Dinner Dates
Night Clubs
Traveling
Quick shopping trips and more….

Celebrity Influencer Jake Paul introduced Monet at the Consumer Electronics Show in January with much fanfare. Additionally, many other celebrities including Scott Disick, Stephanie Shepherd and The Selfie Kid with Justin Timberlake are putting Monet’s on their phones to help them #selfiebetter! Available at Amazon.com and Monetbrand.com, with other retailers hitting this Fall! SRP $19.99

Social media handle
@monet_brand

Instagram Hashtags
#selfiebetter
#monetallday

About Quest Basics

Quest Basics Corp was founded in 2013 to deliver creative design and hiqh-quality sourced products at affordable prices. Their first launch was IJOY launched at CES 2014 with incredible response leading to the company tripling sales by year’s end. The company continued to expand and in 2017, they launched SpinPop, a unique and patented phone holder mechanism. Monet is their next launch in the phone holder space. Quest Basics is based in Brooklyn, NY.

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