Dan Parent at Wizard World 2021

Fan Expo returns to Chicago August 14-16. Of course, I will be "On the Beat" all weekend meeting all sorts of celebrities and interesting creators.

Dan Parent is an artist and writer I met many years ago. Known for his work on the Archie franchise, Dan has done plenty of other work, too. He has done so much great work with Archie that other work gets overshadowed.

With Archie, he introduced Kevin Keller, the first openly gay character in the series. He also has done crossovers with Sharknado and Batman.

With a lot fewer comics in my youth, Archie was one of the most popular. It seems the series got left behind for a while when flashier, more action-packed comics flooded the market. Thanks to folks like Dan though, Archie has regained some steam. At Fan Expo, it is always good to see the attention Dan gets for Archie. This just proves good stories written by talented writers are timeless.

For more info on Fan Expo go to fanexpohq.com. Also, check here for my recurring coverage. Also, follow Dan on Instagram to see his great work.

Dan Parent and me in Rosemont, IL-October 2021.

Jason Mewes at Wizard World (Fan Expo)

Running August 14-16, Fan Expo is approaching fast. Of course, I will be "On the Beat" as usual.

The convention scene in general has undergone changes over the many years I have been covering cons. There use to be a lot more comic books. The focus started to shift to celebrity appearances. As that got more popular, bigger names started appearing, while the overall guest list got a bit smaller. Either way, there is something for everyone.

I met actor Jason Mewes about a decade ago at Wizard World (now Fan Expo). Mewes is probably best known for playing Jay, the vocal half of the Jay and Silent Bob duo. Although very popular, Mewes still made sure everyone had a special moment while meeting him.

I especially like these type of interactions. While I was a fan of his, I didn't know a ton about him. I wanted to meet him for my coverage, but didn't know what to expect. It turned out to be completely enjoyable.

Every year, I have a few such interactions. I look forward to another year of meeting new folks and seeing how those moments go.

For more info on Fan Expo go to fanexpohq.com. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.

Jason Mewes and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2016.

Victor Dandridge at Fan Expo

Fan Expo Chicago is exactly three months away. Running August 13-15, it is a three-day celebration of pop culture fun. As the Fan Engagement Specialist, my longtime buddy Victor Dandridge is on hand making sure it is fun.

I first met Victor when he had a booth promoting his 8bit art. Although that was really cool and I have a Johngy 8bit tshirt to prove it, Dandridge would go on to bigger things. In fact, he's gone on to many bigger things.

The man is called "the hardest working man in comics" for good reason. He's also one of the coolest folks I know. Part of his platform is aimed at youngsters to grow the comics hobby and to pass it on for future generations. You can learn all about his work from my interview at Talking Travel with Victor Dandridge.

Of course Dandridge isn't the only reason to attend Fan Expo. Many celebrities, hundreds of vendors and creators, panels, photo-ops and more are part of the engagement Dandridge and the Fan Expo crew offer. It really is a three-day pop culture celebration. 

For more info on Victor and his work, go to VantageInhouse.com. Also, check fanexpohq.com for scheduling and more.

Victor Dandridge Jr. and me in Rosemont, IL-October 2021.

Friend Encounters: Lisa Marie Varon and Glen and Alicia Rylko

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

I have featured my pal Glen many times. A longtime pal from conventions and wrestling, Glen passed away a few years ago and I miss him. I use this to keep his memory alive.

Glen, his wife Alicia and son Patrick were always very kind to me. We caught up at various events, but Glen and I would often text each other our complaints, laughs or just checkups. He really was a great guy.

I saw him and Alicia take many pictures with celebrities. One of the last ones was with former wrestler and Chicagoan Lisa Marie Varon. Glen and I had similar favorites and Lisa was definitely one of our favorites.

These pictures are always bittersweet. I miss my pal, but I remember so many fun times. Rest in Peace, Glen.

Glen, Lisa Marie Varon and Alicia in Rosemont, IL-August 2019.

Jason Nugent at Wizard World St. Louis 2017

Fan Expo is the world's largest comic con, having bought Wizard World a couple years ago. There are more than a dozen Fan Expo events, with Chicago's event running August 10-13. 

Since taking over Wizard World, Fan Expo has not skipped a beat. They deliver the same con experience. There are celebrities, creators, vendors, cosplayers and much more. If not for the signage, it would be hard to tell the difference.

One of my favorite parts is meandering through Artist Alley, meeting creators of all sorts. That is where I met author Jason Nugent. A best-selling author and resident of southern Illinois, Nugent has authored several books, focused on fantasy, sci-fi and more related subjects. On his website, it states he is a one time BBQ champion, who has skated with Tony Hawk and several other interesting achievements.

His books include a fantasy adventure series, a thrilling young adult scifi series, short stories and more. In the picture below, he is holding The Selection, a book in The Forgotten Chronicles (Rise of the Forgotten and The War for Truth are the others). It's the story of a boy on another planet who has 30 days to fight through various obstacles to get to Victory Point. It's a fantasy story of survival with pkenty of twists along the way.

Nugent has not been announced for Fan Expo yet, but there will be plenty of author authors and other creators there. Of course, I will be there "On the Beat" as usual.

Go to JasonJNugent.com for more info on Jason. Check FanExpoHQ.com for scheduling and updates.

Jason Nugent and me in St. Louis, MO-April 2017.

Zombie Bit Me at Wizard World Chicago 2017

The convention scene has been disrupted over the last two years. This year things are getting back to somewhat normal, but Wizard World as we know it is gone, having been purchased by Fan Expo. Wizard World will live on through the Fan Expo events though. I look forward to Fan Expo's run in Chicago July 7-10.

One of the most interesting folks I have met at Wizard World is Zombie Bit Me. You can watch my interview with her at On the Beat With Zombie Bit Me.

She is a model and a cosplay artist. Cosplay has become so big in the comic con world. There are professional cosplayers and Zombie Bit Me is one of the best and most popular. 

I believe she is now known as Zombae. Whatever name she chooses, she is still one of the most recognizable cosplayers on the comic con scene. Based in Canada, she doesn't get down here often and I am glad I met her when I did.

Wizard World is full of cosplayers and my goal is to meet more of them every year. As the lines and prices for other celebrities keep growing, I look for other fun at comic cons and cosplayers are a definite alternative. They are usually happy to pose and get any extra exposure.

I don't know if Zombae will be at Fan Expo, but I hope to see her. I do know many cosplayers will be there. I also know I will be there "On the Beat" as always.

You can learn more about her at Zombae.com. Also check out her Zombae Facebook page. Go to FanExpoHQ.com for scheduling info for the rest of the year. You don't want to miss any fun!

Zombie Bit Me and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Friend Encounters: Henry Winkler and Glen and Alicia Rylko

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities.

Today I feature one of the coolest guys with Henry Winkler. With no disrespect to The Fonz, Glen Rylko was one of the coolest, nicest people I have known. Unfortunately, Glen passed away a couple years ago. I miss my convention pal.

Glen and his wife Alicia were constant presences at comic cons. We often crossed paths in various lines, stopping to chat and take pictures every time. It was uncanny how many times our celebrity meet lists were nearly identical.

I knew Glen for many years. We also shared a passion for wrestling. I always enjoyed seeing Glen at events.

We texted often between events. We'd vent our wrestling frustrations for laughs. I knew Glen's health wasn't great, but I never heard him complain. Then there was a long stretch with no texts. I texted his son, hoping there was some other reason. Sadly, Glen was not doing well. Shortly after, his son relayed the news Glen had passed.

Every time I go to any convention now, I always think of Glen. I don't see Alicia at cons, because I think it was more Glen's thing.

Rest in peace, my friend. You're at every convention in spirit!

Glen, Henry Winkler and Alicia in Rosemont, IL-August 2019.

Jenny Parks at Wizard World Chicago 2017

I long to return to the convention scene. I am recalling some of the talented folks I have met over the years at Wizard World like Jenny Parks. 

Jenny bills herself as a "scientific Illustrator." That's a cool title for a fantastic artist. Jenny also describes herself as a nerd and a cat lover. The second label is proven in her artwork. She creates unique art featuring cats as pop culture characters. She even published Star Trek Cats, a fully illustrated book.

This all leads to lots of questions, which I hope to ask her someday at a future convention. She was far too busy to talk when I met her several years ago. Business always takes precedence over interviews.

Anyway, I wonder how she decides which cat she will draw for each character. Is it a feel for the character? Is it just an artistic whim? Does she try different cats until one feels right? I am certain she has a reason and I will eventually learn it.

Until then, I enjoy following her on her site and social media. I love seeing the new cat artwork she does. One of my favorites from Jenny is "Purrinecess Leia."

Go to JennyParks.com for more on Jenny and her art. Also, check FanExpoHQ.com for info and scheduling on all of their events.

Jenny Parks and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Lisa Marie Varon at Wizard World 2011

I started really focusing on comic conventions around 2008. Lisa Marie Varon was one of the first celebrities who became a comic con friend. Over the years, we have become friends away from the comic con scene, too.

An amazing wrestler, Lisa attained much success in the WWE, Impact and elsewhere. She was one of the most successful women wrestlers of her era and really is one of the best of all time.

She also owned and ran The Squared Circle a popular restaurant on the near north side of Chicago. Lisa was not an absent owner. She was hands-on and very visible, often even joining folks at tables for chats and laughs. I loved going to her place.

For all she accomplished professionally, it is her just being Lisa which makes her awesome. She greets me with a big smile and a warm hug. She is such a sweetheart.

Lisa would be a great addition to Women's Wrestling Army. It seems built for her. WWA focuses on great in-ring action. Lisa could be commissioner or advisor or some other role. Any company would benefit from Lisa's knowledge and mere presence.

Lisa has been a guest at Wizard World a few times, including 2011, as seen below. Wizard World was purchased by Fan Expo, but it remains pretty much the same great convention. The next Fan Expo is June 2-4 in Philadelphia, but Chicago's is August 10-13. It promises to be another great event.

Check out a lot of cool Lisa merchandise at her Big Cartel store. Fr more info on Fan Expo, go to FanExpoHQ.com.

Lisa Marie Varon and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2011.

Roxi Heart and Joey Roth at Wizard World 2021

My pals Roxi Heart and Joey Roth are not just world famous fabulous idols on the wrestling scene, they are just as world famous and fabulous in the world of comic cons. Both are fixtures on both scenes.

I probably crossed paths with the couple long before I actually knew them. Roxi is a world class cosplayer and Joey usually can be seen toting one of his many title belts (real ones, not fake replicas). Joey has also assisted me on Johngy's Beat by conducting interviews with several creators.

Despite being the ultimate villains in wrestling (roles they relish), the power couple is the opposite in life. They are two of the nicest, funniest people I know.

Joey has an excellent mind for wrestling and is quick on his feet. That makes him great on the mic. It also makes him great to do interviews. He doesn't need much prep, because he is so good at improv.

Roxi's acting background is put to use in her wrestling career. More important or impressive though, is her courage in battling and discussing her eating disorders. She talked about her issues on an interview onn The Johngy "OR ELSE" podcast.

When I see them at wrestling shows, I know I am supposed to boo them, but I can't. They are just so good. Hmm maybe I will have to join them. Could Johngy become a world famous fabulous idol? Stay tuned.

Until then, look for all of us at Fn Expo in Chicago August 10-13. For info and scheduling, go to FanExpoHQ.com.

Roxi Heart, Joey Roth and me in Rosemont, IL-October 2021.

James Finn Garner at Wizard World Chicago 2017

While I haven't seen James Finn Garner recently, he is always one of my favorites at any comic con. I have interviewed him many times at Wizard World. All of my Wizard World interviews can be found on the Johngy's Beat Wizard World playlist on YouTube.

You might ask why a best-selling author is dressed like a clown. That could be part o the comic con experience, but in this case, James is drawing attention to Rex Koko, one of the great characters he created. The Rex Koko series is clown noir, which in itself is also a unique concept. I was sold as soon as I heard about it, but delving into the books, I fell in love with the stories and character.

James has a bunch of other books, too. He even has nonfiction books. Several of his works are on my bookshelf.

Wizard World was purchased by Fan Expo. There are a few changes, but it is still a fantastic event. The next Fan Expo is in Philadelphia June 2-4.

For more info on Jim, check out JamesFinnGarner.com. Also, go to FanExpoHQ.com for news and schedules for events all year.

James Finn Garner and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Bianca Beauchamp at Wizard World Chicago 2017

Native Canadian Bianca Beauchamp is one of the most famous cosplayers in the world. She is also one of the nicest and coolest ones I have met.

At Wizard World a few years ago, she did her take on cosplaying Superman (or maybe Supergirl?). Bianca has acted abit on television and in movies and has been a model, appearing on the cover and in many magazines. She also self-published a book and a reality documentary on herself.

Named after Bianca Jagger, her personality is lively and perfect for the convention scene. If her beauty doesn't catch you, her aura will. She is a sweetheart.

Go to BiancaBeauchamp.com and the Bianca Beauchamp YouTube channel for more fun.. Also, check FanExpoHQ.com for all the news and schedules of their events.

Bianca Beauchamp and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Tom Richmond at Wizard World Chicago 2017

One of my favorites on the comic con scene is Tom Richmond, perhaps most notably known for his outstanding work with Mad Magazine. The freelance cartoonist and caricaturist is amazingly talented and very friendly.

In addition to Mad Magazine, Tom did work for Cracked, the Married... with Children comic book for NOW Comics and The Coneheads, the mini-series for Marvel Comics. Tom also created his version of my Johngy character. It is one of my favorite pieces and proudly hangs on my wall/

Tom is a great guest at comic cons. He is extremely engaging and has lots of cool artwork. One of the most enjoyable things is to catch him sketching. To see him in action is simply amazing. Watching ablank sheet come to life with his artwork is always one of the highlights for me at any comic con.

I have followed Tom's work for many years and I always look forward to seeing him at comic cons. My next chance should be Fan Expo Chicago, August 10-13.

Check TomRichmond.com for info and art. Go to FanExpoHQ.com for news and schedules for events all year.

Tom Richmond and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

The bWo at Squared Circle Expo III

We are now less than two months away from Squared Circle Expo III. Running April 7-8 at Wyndham Indianapolis West, SCX III promises to surpass the first two fantastic SCX events.

My last update listed the first couple rounds of wrestling guest announcements. That list was packed with legends, including Hall of Famer and Olympic Gold Medal winner Kurt Angle, All Elite Wrestling's MJF, WWE legend Tatanka, podcasters and current stars Matt Cardona and Brian Myers, AEW's Jamie Hayter, WWE Hall of Famer “Big Sexy” Kevin Nash, Heath, Rhyno, current SCX champ Jake Omen, WWE Hall of Famer Lisa Marie Varon, WWE legends Tugboat/Typhoon and Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake, multi-time WWE and TNA/Impact Women's champ Mickie James, multi-time NWA champ Nick Aldis and ECW stars Al Snow, Sandman, Shane Douglas, “The Queen of Extreme” Francine and the bWo's Blue Meanie, Nova and Stevie Richards.

Recently added were WWF Hall of Famer Tito Santana, Christian, Evil Uno, AEW's Toni Storm, NJPW's Juice Robinson, WWE HOFer Sgt. Slaughter, AEW's Willow Nightingale, Red Velvet, Dvon Dudley, SoCal Val, Impact's Ace Austin, Impact's Crazzy Steve, PG-13 (J.C. Ice and Wolfie D), Shark Boy, Athena and Danhausen. That' makes 40 wrestling greats and the promoters aren't done yet. As I have previously written, although that list would be enough for any regular convention, SCX III never settles for regular. That list keeps growing.

There are nearly 30 great vendors announced, too, including Great Lakes Championship Wrestling, artist AJ Moore, Mess Bucket Comics, Tony Hunter Promotions and Collar and Elbow. If you are looking for wrestling memorabilia or merchandise, chances are some vendor will have it or at least tell you where to get it. I have picked up qute a few Roddy Piper pieces, some I didn;t even know existed until I saw them at SCX.

SCX also has Q&A sessions, panels, photo ops and more. Ending each day is a night of wrestling. The first two SCX events had wrestling only on Saturday, but because ethe promoters are always trying to outdo themselves, they added another night of wrestling. My friend Tony and I agreed last year's wrestling was possibly the best independent wrestling show we have evenr seen.

Aside from it simply being twice as much wrestling, it also creates a lot of possibilities. Actions from the first night could affect the second. It also opens the possibilities of some wrestlers now being able to make one of the nights, if they had a previous commitment on the other.

I am excited about the whole weekend, but one thing especially cool is the bWo's appearance. This si a rare chance to meet three of the core members of the famous ECW stable. Since it is Throwback Thursday, I am featuring interviews with Stevie Richards, Nova (Mike Bucci) and Blue Meanie (Brian Heffron) from several years ago at a comic con. I post this as an example of how much fun these guys are. I expect the same at SCX III.

Those interviews are at On the Beat With Blue Meanie, Nova and Stevie Richards.

Friend Encounters: John Travolta and Glen and Alicia Rylko

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring my friends who have met celebrities.

Today I feature my dearly departed friend Glen and his widow Alicia with one of the biggest stars they or I ever met. I remember this day clearly.

Glen and I were convention buddies,. While we didn't really get together outside of comic cons and wrestling events, we kept in touch with texts. I valued his friendship and I really miss my buddy.

At Wizard World a few years ago, we all met John Travolta. As we waited to see him, we wondered how he would be. Big name celebrities can be hit-or-miss. Most are at least polite, if not outgoing and friendly, but you never know.

I met Travolta first and then did not see Glen and Alicia until later that day. As we compared notes, we agreed he was super nice. Keep in mind, the time constratints limit the actual interactions, but Travolta was as cool as could be given the situation. He asked our names and thanked us for coming. That's all we really wanted. That's all it takes to make a nice encounter in those photo ops.

Sadly, Glen passed away early last year. He had been sick for a while, but we kept in touch until the very end. His son Patrick delivered the sad news about a week after our last text.

As we head into comic con season, I am thinking about Glen. He is no longer with us, but he is there in spirit. Glen always supported my efforts and encouraged me. He was a great friend and a wonderful human. RIP alwys Glen.

Alicia, John Travolta and Glen Rylko in Rosemont, IL-August 2019.

Carla Wyzgala at Wizard World Chicago 2017

The Pandemic caused havoc with the Wizard World convention schedule the last two years. A lot has changed, too. Wizard World was bought by Fan Expo. Wizard World will live on through Fan Expo, which has several events this year, including Fan Expo Chicago running this weekend, Thursday through Sunday.
Carla Wyzgala is a watercolor pin-up illustrator. Her artwork is a combination of femininity and strength, but always a celebration of the female form. She is also the co-creator and illustrator of Hidden Door Comics
Currently based on the west coast, Carla had her beautiful artwork on display in her hometown Wizard World a few years ago. Despite having a booth full or her work, it was only a fraction of her portfolio. Her site features much more, some of which is grouped as Skull Masquerade, Zodiac Burlesque, Witches and Mermaids, Comic Con Collection and Disney Boudoir.
Carla uses watercolors to make soft, flowing creations. I always find it interesting when artists like Carla tackled the rough world of sports. I love the merging of such opposites. One of my favorites from Carla is Stanley Cup 2013 Ice Crew girl. While it doesn't depict an athlete, it does delve into hockey. It is in keeping with Carla's usual focus, but with the sports twist. Also, it commemorates a Stanley Cup win of my beloved Chicago Blackhawks!

Carla's work is fantastic. I don't know if he will be appearing at Fan Expo, but I hope to see her this year. Fan Expo Chicago is July 7-10 and I will be "On the Beat" to see the new incarnation of a con.
Check out Carlations.com for more info on Carla and her creations. Go to FanExpoHQ.com for news and schedules for events all year.

Carla Wyzgala and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Charlotte Flair at Wizard World Chicago 2017

Fan Expo hits Chicago next Thursday through Sunday. This is a big event, because Fan Expo acquired Wizard World last year and needs to come out strong. Fan Expo has has several events elsewhere this year and reports have been great. I will be "On the Beat" and reporting back here on all the fun.

WWE wrestlers had a big presence at Wizard World over the years and Charlotte Flair was one of my favorites. It was a little bittersweet meeting Charlotte. I grew up watching her father Ric carve out a Hall of Fame career. Meeting his grown daughter makes me feel a bit old, but I guess I am old.

Charlotte is carving out her own Hall of Fame career. She has already won 12 singles titles in the WWE, along with being named Rookie of the Year and Woman of the Year. Earlier this year, she won the Women's Royal Rumble. At 34, she still has plenty of time to add to her awards and accolades.

When I met Charlotte at Wizard World, I was a bit in awe. She has a certain charisma that comes out much better than on television. She has a definite presence and a lot of personality.

She is very proud to be carrying on the Flair legacy, but she also is intent on being her own person. Still the shadow of the Nature Boy is always there and she embraces it, even wearing a shirt adorned with Ric's face (presumably in mid "woooooo").

 Charlotte was one of the most fan-friendly WWE wrestlers I have ever met in a photo op. In fact, she was one of the most fan-friendly of any celeb in a photo op. The time is limited obviously and most fans try to extend it for a few precious seconds. Charlotte actually initiated a real conversation about my fandom and who I was there to see. I told he she was at the top of my list. It's not often I can meet a legit top star of the WWE and I wasn't going to miss her. She seemed genuinely appreciative.

Charlotte gets a bit of criticism from some of the WWE fan base because of her father and also they are simply fickle. Take away her name and any connection and Charlotte is still one of the best ever.

Check WWE.com for more info on Charlotte and the WWE. Also, be sure to check FanExpoHQ.com for updated scheduling for their events.

Charlotte Flair and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Dan Dougherty at Wizard World St. Louis 2017

Wizard World was purchased by Fan Expo, but the comic con will live on. Actually, especially after the last two pandemic years, I think Fan Expo will come out strong this year. Either way, I'll be "On the Beat" at Fan Expo Chicago July 7-10 meeting celebrities and creators.

Dan Dougherty is an illustrator and writer of comics and children's books. He has produced more than 100 works in his career. In 2020, he branched out into the music field, releasing Bad Ideas, his first solo album. A second album is planned.

I started following Dan as a fan of his other work. One book he produced with fellow creator DJ Corchin, Do You Speak Fish?, made my Great Reads 2021 article on Global Traveler. A children's book, it made my list as a great book for adults to read to children. It has important lessons and cool art work.

When I learned of his foray into music, I went to his site to listen. The three tracks there were excellent. They reminded me a bit of the BoDeans. I definitely am looking forward to un Times Ahead, his planned second album.

I have a special interest in Dan's work because of his focus on children. Much of the work in Artist Alley is aimed at collectors of all sorts. Very little is actually aimed at children. That takes guts and heart. His work is aimed at teaching children without lecturing to them. It's great stuff for children and adults with children.

Go to BeardoComics.com for more info on Dan. For more info on Fan Expo, go to FanExpoHQ.com.

Dan Dougherty and me in St. Louis, MO-April 2017.

Chris Ehnot at Wizard World Chicago 2017

The much-anticipated Fan Expo runs in Chicago July 7-10. It's a big event, as it is the first Chicago event since Fan Boy acquired Wizard World. Fan Expo has had several other events and the reviews have been great.

One of the staples of Wizard World was Chris Ehnot, a graphic designer and illustrator. He has done many covers and other work. He is super-talented and one of the most popular and busiest folks in Artist Alley at any convention.

Chris is another creator whose booths always amaze me. It's juts one beautiful creation after another. I can get lost in the art. I sometimes have to step back, so others can actually do business with CVhris at his booth.

In lieu of an Aquaman, I probably pick hs Supergirl as my favorite of his works. Of course, he has so many more, including a lot of newer characters. I'm old school though.

Chris sells commissions through his website. He has various options and they are all written clearly. Some of them include donations to The Hero Initiative, an organization created to help comic creators in emergency need. I applaud Chris for his efforts for The Hero Initiative and I support the cause as well.

Check out ChrisEhnot.com for more info on Chris and his artwork. Also, check FanExpoHQ.com for info and schedules on all of their events.

Chris Ehnot and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Friend Encounters: Sheryl Steines and Joey Roth at Wizard World (...and Fan Expo)

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends meeting celebrities. Today is a special edition in anticipation of the upcoming Fan Expo.

Fan Expo is less than one month away. Running July 7-10 in Rosemont, IL, Fan Expo takes over for Wizard World. Fan Expo promises to be just as fantastic as Wizard World always was.

One of my favorite guests at Wizard World was Sheryl Steines. I first met the Chicago area writer there years ago and have interviewed her several times since. Last year, Johngy's Beat Special Contributor Joey Roth handled the interviewing and that interview can be found at On the Beat With Sheryl Steines at Wizard World 2021.

An admitted television junkie, Sheryl credits Nancy Drew novels with inspiring her. That inspiration led to Sheryl's writing several books. Her first book, "The Day of the First Sun," was released in November of 2010. It is a supernatural murder mystery. The best description I saw for the book was it was a mystery about "the magical murder of a non-magical princess." The book appealed to me, because it seemed to be something unlike anything I have read.

I am not a huge fan of that genre, but I gave it a read and really enjoyed it. That book led to several more in her Wizard Hall Chronicles series.

Sheryl's writing is interesting and unique. She balances everything and keeps me engrossed. I can't wait to finish each book, but I never want it to end. At least I know there will be more.

One of the cool things about Sheryl is following her on social media. She posts about the process of writing, including rough patches. It makes me appreciate the finished product even more, but it shows how hard she works and how dedicated she is. I applaud her honesty and openness in putting that out there.

I look forward to seeing Sheryl at Fan Expo and hope to get an update interview with her. Sheryl will be one of several great creator friends I will see, as well as meeting new and different ones.

Go to SherylSteines.com for more info on Sheryl and her work. Go to FanExpoHQ.com for more info and scheduling.

Sheryl Steines and Joey Roth in Rosemont, IL-October 2021.