Owner of The Short Box, Heath Pecorino works on a mural inside his new comics shop. Photo: Steve Altis
Who They Are:
Heath Pecorino is the mastermind behind the business that is The Short Box. An expert in the world of comics, Heath’s store, which opened January 12, 2011, specializes in the sale of comic books, graphic novels, trade paperbacks, and comics memorabilia. The Short Box has found a home at 3 Lawyers Row in the heart of downtown Staunton.
Entrepreneurial Philosophy:
Heath believes that there is a comic book for everyone, and he has made it his mission to make those connections. “Whether a customer’s appreciation is of art, modern mythology, tales of interstellar morality, or grim reality, comics are complex and detail-oriented works that have a wide appeal.”
Says Heath “Comic books appeal to a wide variety of audiences, and as such The Short Box will provide products aimed at all of these audiences. Children looking for a new hobby, teens who are avid readers, and adults who have fallen in love with comics will all be welcome!” Heath canvassed his fellow small business owners in Staunton to explore ways in which mutually beneficial relationships could be built. “This cross-pollination with businesses like Barrister Books, Pufferbellies, and the Dragon’s Hoard will be key to The Short Box’s success as well as to the overarching success and sustainability of small, local businesses in Staunton.”
Not only will The Short Box make every effort to stay on top of the hottest trends within the comics industry, Heath will be taking his commitment to the community one step further by using the store as a means to promote the works of local artists and musicians. Additionally, The Short Box hopes to partner with local schools, libraries, and other non-profits to promote interest in reading. “Comic books are an amazing medium to promote literacy; they can create more interest in a young person’s mind in reading and in art than most people would expect,” says Michael Hurt, a Staunton resident and comics aficionado. Says Heath, “We want The Short Box to be a safe and community-centered environment where parents feel confident about letting their children spend time.”
How did you get here?
A longtime resident of Staunton, says Heath, “there is a reason I live and am starting this business in Staunton. This is just a cool community and I am really excited to be a part of that.”
Having grown up on comics, Heath has continually cultivated his love and appreciation for this unique form of art throughout his adult life. “It’s something I want to share, and I think this is the right place to do it.”
Meet Them:
The Short Box
3 Lawyers Row
Right behind the Augusta County Courthouse in Downtown Staunton
540.887.3366
