The Magnificient Seven: 7 Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane

Hi Ya'll--With convention season starting up again next month, and a good portion of my life spent on a plane, I'm always looking for travel tips to make life a little more manageable. 

Just in time, after the holidays, www.smartertravel.com posted this article by Caroline Costello on "Seven Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane."  

Now, I have my own ideas. Ten years ago, I was very much into wearing overalls on planes. Loose and comfortable with lots of pockets. I called it my flight suit. However, now with tightened security, the metal tabs that hold the straps on always set off the metal detectors. 

 These days I more often than not opt for cargo pants with side pockets and some good shoes that are easy to slip off. A long sleeve top is also good. Most of the flights (except a few on Iberia which were terribly hot, are rather cold.) I don't think I'm making any fashion statements, but it's practical and comfortable. 

For you road warriors perhaps this article will also offer few valuable tips. It reminded me of a few things I SHOULD be doing.  My notes follow each of the seven.

--R.

________________

"Seven Things You should Always Wear on a  Plane"
By Caroline Costello

Dressing appropriately for air travel means knowing what will keep you comfortable on the plane—and given the cramped seats and various temperature changes on flights, this isn't always easy. The following seven items, which provide plenty of comfort plus a touch of style, are essential for any jet-setting flyer's wardrobe. Be the best dressed in the cabin with our guide to in-flight apparel.

1.)

Layers, Layers, Layers

Air travel is often an assemblage of various disparate micro-climates, from the sweat-inducing sunny tarmac to the arctic air-conditioned cabin during flight. So fight discomfort with plenty of layers. I like to wear a washable cotton scarf (like this one from J.Crew Factory) that's a large enough to double as a wrap when it's particularly chilly. Pashminas, shawls, wraps, cardigans, sweatshirts, vests, and light jackets are perfect. You can even fold or roll soft items, like cotton jackets, and use them as makeshift pillows during flight.
Plus, the more layers you pile on your body, the less you need to pack in your luggage. Roll items and stuff them in your carry-on bag or under the seat in front of you if you're too warm. A foldable, reusable bag like Baggu, which takes up almost no suitcase space and can even be scrunched up and stuffed into a pocket, is useful for toting extra apparel that you've taken off.
Layers that help you regulate temperature while flying also come in very handy when traveling through various (actual) climates. And for travelers hitting the road during shoulder season, when weather is particularly unpredictable, layers are key for optimal comfort.

(Renee's Note: Layers are a must. I always take a jacket or hoodie to wear on the plane, as well as a pashmina--that translates to scarf--most of mine from a flea market in Paris. Especially now that most airlines do not provide pillows and blankets, these come in handy. Your hoodie can also double as a pillow. And as she mentions above, on a side note, somewhere in my luggage I do have an extra bag made of lightweight material that can be used as a carry on, if I happen to return with souveniers, etc. )

2.)

Breathable Fabrics

Maintain in-flight comfort and cleanliness by wearing breathable fabrics—materials that allow air and moisture to pass through—like cotton, silk, or linen. Fabrics that don't allow air to circulate will hold sweat on the skin, likely making you feel dirtier faster and probably necessitating a good spin in the washing machine upon landing. Natural fabrics are great, but moisture-wicking manmade fabrics are suitable options as well.

(Renee's Note: Could not agree more. Cotton is my favorite fabric for travel or any time. Not a fan of the manmade fabrics however. I always feel like I can't breath, much less my clothes.) 

3.)

Support or Compression Legwear

Many doctors recommend that pregnant women wear support or compression stockings or socks in flight. But compression legwear is also a good choice for those with pre-existing medical conditions, travelers taking long-haul flights, and anyone who flies often. The socks or stockings, which promote blood circulation, help prevent swelling of the legs, and help guard against deep vein thrombosis (DVT), work by putting pressure on leg muscles and increasing blood flow. You can find them at many pharmacies and drug stores, and they're often available from travel-supplies stores like Magellan's.

(Renee's Notes:  This is a new one for me. I know several friends with Diabeties that are using these socks to help improve circulation. And they work wonders.  I can see how they'd be great on a flight. Especially a long one.)

4.)

Comfortable, Simple Shoes

It's best to wear extremely comfortable, mostly flat shoes on the plane—think of your poor feet after hours or even days of sitting, standing, and walking en route to your destination. You'll also want to select shoes that are easy to slip on and off when passing through airport security (as we advise in 10 Ways to Speed Through Airport Security.)
My favorite shoes to wear on a plane are Keds Skimmers for women, which offer sneaker-grade comfort but look more like cute ballet flats. Additionally, I recommend CitySlips (for women), Toms (for men and women), and higher-end Tieks (for women). Tieks also offers a line of vegan shoes.

(Renee's Notes: There was a time when I use to wear cowboy boots everywhere and for every occassion. I don't any more-- except when I'm Cajun dancing. Nice comfortable shoes are now a must on the plane.)

5.)

Clothes with Lots of Pockets

With all kinds of airline baggage fees dropping like hot bricks, clothes that do double duty as wearable carry-on bags are de rigueur. We love the Scottevest Travel Vest (available for men or women), which is also one of our picks in 10 Best Travel Clothes to Wear on the Road. And there are myriad other travel jackets out there that feature an explosion of pockets, like the Ultimate Travel Jacket from Orvis or the (admittedly dorky-looking) Voyager Vest, which appears to be exactly the same as a fishing vest. But it gets the job done, if you can pull off the angler look.

(Renee's Notes:  As mentioned I'm a big fan of cargo pants. Haven't gone the vest route though, except on one trip to Peru. Remember however, the more pockets you have, the more pockets you have to remember to take things out of when going through security. And here's my biggest tip: If you are going to Peru, or the Amazon, or someplace where you KNOW you are going to get dirty. Don't spend a ton of money on these things. Go to your local thrift shop, find what you need, pay a fraction of the cost, and help a charity all at the same time. If it falls into the Zambezi you aren't going to cry over it. )

6.)

Loose-Fitting Clothing

As we mentioned before, DVT is a danger on flights, where travelers stuck in cramped seats for long periods of time are at greater risk for developing blood clots. To reduce the risk of getting DVT, the University of Washington Medical Center recommends avoiding "tight clothing, nylons, or socks (especially the type that are too tight at the top and/or leave marks on your skin) that might restrict blood flow through veins." So leave your skinny jeans at home and opt for less restrictive garments like A-line skirts, loose-fitting dresses, or more relaxed straight-or wide-leg pants. TravelSmith's Aero Microfleece Pants (for men) feel and fit like sweats, but won't make you look like a hospital escapee.

(Renee's Notes: I swear, as God is my witness, I will never wear a cat sweat top. Loose top yes. With Feline on it, no! )

7.)

Something Stylish

Don't throw fashion totally out the window. When it comes to dressing for a flight, much of our advice focuses on function. But dressing with a bit of style—while keeping conscious of comfort, of course—could help you get a free upgrade. An anonymous source told Goop, "On a Virgin flight back to Heathrow, I spotted one of the staff's monitors that read, 'Look for well-dressed people to upgrade.' The staff then began looking around for well-dressed people to upgrade. I'm not saying this will happen every time, but if you are looking to get upgraded, it helps to look smart." Throw a flowy, fashion-forward dress on over your compression socks and flash the airline staff a smile.

(Renee's Notes: Gone are the days that folks dressed for dinner and the theatre, alas, much less for flying. I would love a little more class, in first class or domestic class for that matter, to tell you the truth. Just like I'd still like a nice meal with real silverwear and real plates, and a pillow and a blanket.... sigh... Still... There are ways to make yourself look put together, without looking silly or overdressed. I do bother sometimes, but... I generally go for comfort and just hope that I don't see anyone I know.... but maybe I'll revise my stance. :-) if it means that much to Virgin! LOL)

_____

And there you have it. Tips for a more comfortable ride. As for me, I'm still holding out hope for teleportation in my lifetime.  

Happy trails, everyone!

--R. 

A Life in Words-- Interview with Renee Witterstaetter, "Texarkana Gazette," 12-30-12

Renee's Notes: A visit home to Texas this Christmas, included a nice interview with the local newspaper, "The Texarkana Gazette." Back in college, I also wrote travel articles for them. So it was kinda fun to see myself on the front page. A few things I talked about in the interview didn't make it into the final article. So, I'd also like to mention the names of these several folks who were important to me early on, and whom I've never forgotten. Besides of course, going more in-depth about my parents, Erma and Raymond Witterstaetter, who sacrificed so much of their time and energy to raise my brothers and I, there are others... 

Namely, Coach McGregor who was my history teacher at Westlawn Jr. High School, Mark Gruenwald, my boss and wonderful teacher at Marvel Comics. Craig Anderson, my direct boss at Marvel Comics, and Jim Salicrup, my friend and boss at Topps Comics. All people I feel blessed to know. 

Since you have to have a subscription to the paper to read the story on-line, here is the article in it's entirety. 

Telling Stories: Love of Reading led to a lifelong career of film, comic books and publishing for Wake Village native Renee Witterstaetter


*Renee Witterstaetter, a writer, comic book editor and color artist who has worked for Marvel and DC Comics, holds a copy of one of her books, "Michael Golden's More Heroes and Villains," on Friday in the graphic novels section of Books-A-Million in Texarkana, Texas.

By Marie Martin * Texarkana Gazette
December 30, 2012

Storytelling comes naturally to Wake Village, Texas native Renee Witterstaetter, whose homegrown talent gave her a lifelong career in the creative worlds of comics, literature, music and film.

Witterstaetter, a 1980's graduate of Texas High School and East Texas State University-Commerce, spent her childhood reading, writing and watching old movies. She said her introduction to comics came from reading comics collected by her brothers, Robert and Ray.

"Spider-Man," specifically the issue where Peter meets Mary Jane, by Marvel Comics and DC Comics "Jerry Lewis" books…these were the first comics I discovered as a kid from my brother's collection, long before I knew I'd ever work in comics."

Witterstaetter said she returns to East Texas two or three times a year to keep herself grounded and reminded of the place where she "found the early love of storytelling," including the inspiration from her grandmother.

"(She) was always writing poetry," Witterstaetter said of grandmother Eva Hicks of Texarkana. "She made quilts and used them to remind her of a story from her life with fabric from an old dress or a flour sack."

(My Grandmother, Eva Vann Hicks with me right before my move to Connecticut, and below as a teenager.)

In December, Witterstaetter visited Books-A-Million in Texarkana, which sells a number of graphic novels that list Witterstaetter's name in the credits.

Witterstaetter is the daughter of Erma and Raymond Witterstaetter. She said her influences were many, including elementary teacher Jewel Gwyn; French teacher Sue Kimbro, who encouraged her to got to Paris on a school trip; high school Journalism teacher Connie Penny; and college professor Dr. Lawrence McNamee, who taught her about William Shakespeare and worked with her on writing collaborations.

(Above, my parents visiting in Connecticut, and my dear friend Dr. Lawrence McNamee.)

Witterstaetter said she became aware of her creative aptitude when she won an award in Junior High School for a World War II slide show. She recruited a concentration camp survivor to narrate the project.

(Working at the East Texan at ETSU Commerce.)

Just after completing college, Witterstaetter left East Texas to work at a company that organized comic book events. Eventually, she became an editor at comic book publishers DC, Marvel and Topps. She worked on "Superman" at DC. At Marvel she worked on the "Silver Surfer," "Conan the Barbarian," the reintroduction of "She-Hulk" and the "Conan Saga." At Topps, she was the editor for "Jurassic Park," "Xena" and "Hercules." She is the co-creator of the comic book series "Spartan X" with artist Michael Golden.

(With the one and only Stan Lee at the Dallas Fantasy Faire, where I was the Co-Chair.)

Now, Witterstaetter owns her own publishing company, Eva Ink in Connecticut, and represents several comic artists in the Eva Ink Artist Group. She also has written several historical, film, art and children's books.

(Children's book, "Kerry and the Scary Things," with cover by Michael Golden, text by Renee Witterstaetter and illos by Keith Wilson.)

Witterstaetter said her career--which took her from working with a Dallas company that organizes comic conventions, to authoring her own books, to working on music videos with Madonna, Usher and Seal--is proof that "doors are always opening."

"When a door opens and it feels right, that's what I do. I am very fortunate and blessed."

Witterstaetter said the comics business is collegial.

"It's a small industry, and everyone knows everyone in the industry."

One of those Witterstaetter knows is Mike Carlin, an editor at Marvel and DC.

"He taught me a great deal about the essentials of telling a good story."

Witterstaetter travels to China, Norway, Spain, Australia, Costa Rica and Hong Kong and other places have introduced her to celebrities, including Jackie Chan, about whom she wrote a book and whom she considers a good friend, and famed comedian Buster Keaton's widow, Eleanor, whom she traveled to Los Angeles to introduce to Chan at one point.

Witterstaetter worked with Chan on his movie "Rush Hour 2" and with Anthony Hopkins on "Red Dragon."

(With Jackie in Hong Kong, on his birthday one year.)

Witterstaetter studied journalism in high school, at Texarkana College and at Texas A&M Commerce. She was the editor of the Tiger Times, TC News and at A&M (Then ETSU)--Commerce's student newspaper The East Texan. She also worked at Citizens Tribune newspaper in New Boston.

(Working on the school newspaper at Texas High School.)

Witterstaetter said most o the books Eva Ink publishes are limited edition, and some are picked up by other companies for various foreign editions. Her book "Nick Cardy: The Artist at War" recently was picked up by Britain's Titan Publishing. The book can be purchased on Titanbooks.com and will be in bookstores soon.

Cardy is a movie poster artist and a comic book artist on DC's "Tomahawk," "Aquaman" and "Teen Titans."

Witterstaetter said the idea for the Cardy book came after she visited the artist a couple of years ago. He showed her some of his never-before-seen combat sketches of World War II. Cardy, 93, carried his artist tools with him while an assistant tank driver in the 3rd Armored Division. He received two Purple Hearts.

(With Nick Cardy at MegaCon in Orlando, Florida.)

Witterstaetter said despite the popularity of electronic media, there always will be a place for paper books.

"It's a treasure that shouldn't be lost…(It's) an artifact, history of our existence as people," she said.

Witterstaetter, who fancies ballroom and Salsa dancing and still likes to fish in NYC's Central Park, has a number of nieces and nephews in East Texas. She will travel to Russia next year to lecture on comics.



Renee Witterstaetter List:

A partial list of some of the books on which Renee Witterstaetter has worked:

*"Nick Cardy: The Artist at War" by Renee Witterstaetter, published by Eva Ink (2011) and Titan Publishing (2013)

*"Santa Confidential"--Artwork by Chris Browne of "Hagar the Horrible" fame, text by S. Claus, edited and designed by Renee Witterstaetter. Consultant Ric Meyers. Eva Ink Publishing (2012)

*"Nick Cardy: Wit-Lash," by Renee Witterstaetter, published by Eva Ink (2012)

*"Dying for Action: The Life and Films of Jackie Chan," Warner Publishing, author Renee Witterstaetter (1998). Updated version due in 2013.

*"Kerry and the Scary Things," children's book by Renee Witterstaetter. Cover by Michael Golden. Interior art by Keith Wilson. Published by Eva Ink (2011)

*"Tex: The Art of Mark Texeira," author Renee Witterstaetter. Published by Vanguard Productions (2009)

*"Excess: The Art of Michael Golden," author Renee Witterstaetter from Vanguard Productions (2009)

*"Fantastic Art of Arthur Suydam," Editors J. David Spurlock and Renee Witterstaetter. Text by Arthur Suydam. From Vanguard Publishing (2007).

Matt Triano: "Sherlock Holmes: The Liverpool Demon" #1--Hits the Stands!

Sherlock Holmes is busy doing what he does best, solving a case of far-reaching international notoriety. It has landed him at the Port of Liverpool, a bustling hub of commerce both legitimate and illicit. As that chapter closes, ours begins. They head to Lime Street Station, to catch a fast steam locomotive home to London and Baker Street, when violent weather keeps The Great Detective and Watson in Britain's second city a while longer. Long enough to encounter a monster, discover the Liverpool underworld, and to become embroiled in one of his strangest cases yet.

Bringing Holmes and Watson to life is the stunning artwork of artist Matt Triano!

Matt Triano is already known for his storyboard work, motion comic work, and artwork for various ad agency projects developing custom comics for high profile clients. His art can currently be seen in works for Robin Hood Charities in New York, Moonstone (Captain Action), Zenescope (Grimm's Myths and Legends, Robyn Hood, Sleepy Hallow, Story of Mankind), The Discovery Channel and Marvel Trading cards (Marvel Characters), as well as a Batman story for the "DC Halloween Special. "Sherlock Holmes" is a stellar addition to the list!

Story by Leah Moore and John Reppion, Pencils and inks by Matt Triano, cover by Francesco Francavilla. Cover price: $3.99 Publisher Dynamite Entertainment.

To read a little more about Matt, go to:

http://witterstaetterwrites.blogspot.com/2012/01/spotlight-new-interviw-with-matt-triano.html

For more information on Matt's booking and assignments contact Renee at Eva Ink Artist Group at: evaink@aol.com

 

Painting Commission List Opens for Mark Texeira!

It's that time again. Mark Texeira is accepting two painting commissions. And only when those two are completed will the list be open again.

Fine art painter, Mark Texeira has long been known for a conflagration of characters, including "MoonKnight," "Black Panther," "Ghost Rider," "Wolverine," and much more. Currently his series "Space Punisher" has been released to rave reviews. His catalogue of work over the last 30 years has astounding.

Take a look at this just completed Black Cat commission by Mark to get you started!

Of course, throughout 2013, at various convention appearances, Mark will also be accepting, penciled, inked as well as watercolor commissions to be done on site. 

 

But here is a rare opportunity to get on Mark's list for a fully painted original piece!! Character of your choice. 

 

 

 

For more information, contact Renee at: evaink@aol.com for details and pricing.
 

NYCC 2012 in Pictures and Posts!

 (Jim Steranko, Renee Witterstaetter and Mark Texeira.)

 (Bob Camp, Larry Hama, Hecto Calazzo, Jim Salicrup, Michael Golden, Renee Witterstaetter.)

 (Glenn Herdling, Ed Lazellari, Scott Morelli, Renee Witterstaetter and Mark Texeira.)

 (Renee Witterstaetter, Steve Bunche, and Mark Texeira.)

(Jim Steranko and Michael Golden)

The New York Comic Con was great this year: A new room all to ourselves, great space on and behind the tables, and enthusiastic folks through the door.

Pitching up badges and getting organized was a breeze. Of course there are always a few glitches with a show this big, but they didn't come from the organization. Despite the massive crowds, it all seemed to go like clock-work.

Highlights included meeting many new fans, as well as seeing some regulars. Much thanks to those that were courteous and worked with us for signings and sketches. A few kind words and consideration for the artist and their time can go a long way. You helped make it enjoyable for both sides of the table.

Writer Jack Abramowitz also stopped by and much thanks for him highlighting our books and appearance at the NYCC by Michael Golden, myself, Mark Texeira, Dennis Calero, Matt Triano, Ric Meyers and Rodney Ramos. With our trusty assistant Constance Katsafanas on hand!

Here's a little of Jack's report:

"Renee Witterstaetter represents not only her own work but also that of Michael Golden, Mark Texeira, and many others. Her company, Little Eva Ink, produces art books and portfolios including two from Nick Cardy. 'Nick Cardy: The Artist at War' features sketches from World War II, which Witterstaetter described as “one man’s story of the war as told through his art.” 'Nick Cardy: Wit-Lash' presents a collection of Cardy’s humor work. New sketchbooks available include 'Joe Jusko: Maelstrom' and 'Michael Golden: Alchemy.' Making its debut at Comic Con, however, was 'Santa Confidential,' drawn by Chris Browne (current creator of the comic strip Hagar the Horrible) and ostensibly written by Santa Claus himself. “It’s 52 questions, one for every week of the year,” Witterstaetter explained. “These are actual questions that the kids have asked of Santa over the years so parents can read one question a week to their kids leading up to Christmas.” '

You can read the full article here:


http://www.cbgxtra.com/knowledge-base/con-reports/you-can-do-it-all-at-new-york-comic-con

And finally, the best thing about any show is seeing people we know and love. We had far too little time with most of them. But just reconnecting for a few moments is still grand. Even if your photo isn't here (I didn't start snapping until the last day,)  you know who you are.

Until next time….

--Renee

(Constance with Squirrel Girl. Bringing up the tail end.)

Alert: Artwork Stolen From Suydam Studios-- Keep an eye out!

Hi Everyone-- Arthur asked me to circulate this for him. If you have been approached by the person(s) trying to sell this stolen work, he'd appreciate hearing from you. All tips are confidential. If you have a blog or place to post this, please do to help spread the word. Best, Renee

________


For Immediate Release:
October 15, 2012

STOLEN FRAZETTA, SUYDAM,  ARTWORK !!!
REWARD!

Alien  Genocide  by  Arthur Suydam

Little  Devil   by  Frank Frazetta  (  artist sketch of stolen  artwork)

 These  artworks, among others, were  recently stolen  from  the  studio  of   artist Arthur  Suydam .  If  you  see these artworks or have any information on  their  location, please  contact Arthur at  suyd@earthlink.net, 

212 475 4840.

All personal information will be kept  confidential.

Description of Two of the Pieces:

Alien Genocide  by  Arthur Suydam (  gouche  painting )

Little   Devil   by   Frank   Frazetta  (  ink  drawing 8 1/2 x 11”)

Santa Spills the Beans in "Santa Confidential!"--Artwork by Chris Browne

Are you the real Santa?"

"How do you deliver presents when we don’t have a chimney?"

"How do the reindeer fly?"

"Can you really see us when we’re sleeping?"

"How do you know who’s been naughty or nice?"

Did you ever want to know the real answers to these questions? All of them, and many more, have been asked of Santa Claus over the years, and he thinks it's time you knew the truth.

Here, in this amazing, entertaining, and funny book are the answers to the top fifty-two questions – one for each week of the year.

So whether parents read them to their children, or you read them for yourself, you’ll have fun every week from Christmas to Christmas.

Illustrated by world-famous artist Chris Browne, and penned by the “jolly ol’ elf” himself, Santa Confidential reveals what you’ve always wanted to know. 

 

The book is available for ordering from Diamond, and will ship in time for Christmas! (Stocking Stuffer, you know.)

ISBN # Signed Edition: 978-1-4675-3957-9
$17.99

ISBN # Sketch Edition:  978-1-4675-3959-3
$125.

For more information or to order directly from Eva Ink, contact us at: evaink@aol.com