FUN: The Celebration of 10 Years in photos


The big celebration is over. I’ve had 24 hours to recover. Now is when I re-hydrate and consider all that happened.

As the weekend progressed, a growing sense of pride threatened to overwhelm me. There are so many smart, incredible people who are part of the Apex family that it astounds me. I’m nobody special, but what Apex Publications has become is more than a book company—it is a nexus for a collection of fans, friends, authors, artists, and editors.

The proceedings began around 5pm when we kicked off the event with the Apex panel and Q&A. Myself and two of my longtime editors, Janet Harriett and Lesley Conner, joined our facilitator Geoffrey Girard to share some ‘worst of the slush’ experiences, good memories, bad memories, and ‘why we do what we do’.

My words are music to their ears --Photo credit Nicole Platania--
My words are music to their ears
–Photo credit Nicole Platania–

After the panel Apex Magazine poetry editor, Bianca Spriggs performed some FANTASTIC poetry. Her piece about Pluto being demoted from a major planet really hit a chord with the crowd.

Bianca Spriggs Photo credit Nicole Platania
Bianca Spriggs lamenting Pluto’s demotion
–Photo credit Nicole Platania–

Then horror and dark fantasy icon Gary A. Braunbeck provided an introduction that had several amusing and clever anecdotes.

Gary A. Braunbeck introducing me. I want his hat. --Photo credit Nicole Platania--
Gary A. Braunbeck introduced me. I want his hat.
–Photo credit Nicole Platania–

Then a nervous and excited redneck stood in front of the crowd and read an excerpt from FOR EXPOSURE: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF A SMALL PRESS PUBLISHER (Chapter 9: Stoned and Delirious).

And then I was lost in the town of Silent Hill... --Photo Credit Nicole Platania--
And then I was lost in the town of Silent Hill…
–Photo credit Nicole Platania–

Then we signed books. Afterward, we gathered for a group photo.

Jason wept. --Photo credit Brian K. Hatcher--
Jason wept.
–Photo credit Brian K. Hatcher–

The bookstore has a bistro where we gathered for the Apex dinner. Plenty of book gossip and industry whispering happened.

--Photo credit Brian J. Hatcher--
“Psst, talk Jason into another Time Travelers Tonic and he’ll publish your book!” –Photo credit Brian J. Hatcher–

After the dinner, we converged at a hotel suite and engaged in social activities and alcoholic beverages. Cameras were not allowed for this portion of the festivities.

The following morning, the stragglers gathered for breakfast at Ramsey’s. We committed coffee-fueled omelet-based gluttony.

Lots of hugs and well-wishes commenced. I took photos with some folks. Here is one.

Me and Nicole Platania (Bet you thought I would post the pic of me and Mina!) --Photo credit Nicole Platania--
Me and Nicole Platania (Bet you thought I would post the pic of me and Mina!)
–Photo credit Nicole Platania–

Bear with me while I express gratitude to a large group of people who helped make this weekend happen: Patricia Murphy, Susan Sizemore, Lesley Conner, Janet Harriett, Gary A. Braunbeck, Geoffrey Girard, Hannah Krieger, Douglas F. Warrick, Mari Adkins, Maurice Broaddus, Jerry Gordon, Amanda Weaver, Judi Davidson, Nicole Platania, Damien Angelica Walters, Elizabeth Massie, Jettie Necole, and Bianca Spriggs.

Thank you to everyone who took part and attended!


One response to “FUN: The Celebration of 10 Years in photos”

  1. Nicole Avatar

    It was a really fun time! I know Mina is an amazing kid so yes I’m surprised I was chosen to grace your blog 😛

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