CAKE 2015: 5 Days Left to Apply!

The deadline to apply as an exhibitor for CAKE 2015 is on December 15th, which is only five days away. If you haven't yet done so, you can apply at http://www.cakechicago.com/2015-cake-exhibitor-applicationIf you're still pondering your decision whether to apply, here's a note from Caitlin McGurk, of the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum, about her experience at CAKE 2014. Caitlin interviewed Tony Millionaire for one of the panels, and she had the following to say to Tom Spurgeon of The Comics Reporter about the weekend:"I like CAKE! No in fact, I love CAKE. Few other American comics shows come to mind (other than Short Run, perhaps) where I have felt energized the entire time by the homegrown, we-can-do-this-if-we-try attitude that their entire organization is fueled by.  Young fans and cartoonists that are clearly dedicating themselves to this year after year just out of the love of it, and have rather impressively pulled off a professional and well-oiled-machine within only 3 years of operating. Their website is tight and cohesive. Their programming is original, satisfying without being overly-ambitious or packed in, and doesn't just cater to big names but exposing lesser-known folks."And speaking of panels, they are the only indie comics show that I am aware of (and please correct me if I'm wrong) who actually PAY their moderators. As someone who is frequently asked to moderate or interview folks for part of a conventions programming, I know just how much time, energy, and cash (from purchasing the artists' books) goes into researching and preparing for that kind of event, and it's an enormous help to be passed $100 or so as a sign of thanks and appreciation. Especially for those of us who moderate but otherwise have no place at a convention beyond being a fan and picking up work."Unfortunately, I can't speak to how the sales were, as I haven't tabled at CAKE, but late-Saturday and throughout Sunday seemed fairly busy, and morale remained high. Both the programming venue and the exhibitor areas are beautiful, well-lit, comfortable and well located in a friendly neighborhood with plenty of good food. The after parties are always a blast, and it's nice to go to a convention where basically everyone at the show actually does go to the official after-party, rather than dispersing throughout small parties in the city. In short, keep doin' it right guys. And thanks for another great festival."The Fourth Annual Chicago Alternative Comics Expo will take place on Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7, 2015 at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted Ave. If you have any questions about CAKE, please contact us.