Gothic Fest 2005 in Villa Park, IL - 9/17/05

On Sept. 17, 2005, I was a book signing guest at the Gothic Fest at the Villa Park Odeum Expo Center. I had a great time, sold a few books, made some new friends and enjoyed some amazing up-and-coming bands. My friend Jim Leonardo stopped by to help promote my signing schedule by passing out promo cards while Blair and the gang at Dark Star Records hosted me at an add-on table; they were all great to hang out with during the 13-hour event. I finally met and quaffed a couple beers with Grave Grrrls Comics founder Scott Licina, better known in Chicago as "Vlad" the vampiric leader of '90s band The Dark Theater, and Michelle Belanger, former editor of Shadowdance magazine -- the 3 of us found we had many old friends in common. I also met fellow Red Scream Magazine contributor Gashley Darcane, who was womanning the Red Scream table (unfortunately the magazines were delayed in shipping and didn't make the expo). I finally met Gwen of Grigori 3, who has been an occasional e-mail pal for a year or two now. Her band, along with Rachael's Surrender and Ghost Orgy were among the highlights of the 20 acts that played over the course of the day. I can't wait until next year! Following are some pix taken throughout the day.