Chicago Article Page 1

O-Town Gives Their Heart and Soul to Chicago
June 12, 2003
Story by Sonia Cavazos
Photos by Adrienne Quinn Washington and Shawna Canavesio

It was about 5:30 p.m. when those covering the event were finally led up to the 2nd level where the concert was going to be. The experience was absolutely surreal. We were allowed to walk out onto the floor, and it was totally empty. Then my eyes hit the stage and saw Dan and Ashley, holding their guitars, and towards center stage was Erik-Michael, in a grey hoodie under a spotlight. I couldn't see his face, just a baseball cap bill sticking out of the sweatshirt hood, and him holding a microphone. It then dawned on me that we were witnessing the sound check! Unfortunately, Press were not allowed to photograph this part of the evening. As an extra added bonus, though, while waiting for the Meet and Greet, we were able to hear "The Joint" and "Every Six Seconds" being rehearsed. My excitement and nervousness were building.

I was unaware of exactly how much time passed, but it seemed like forever with the huge butterflies in my stomach. Mike Morin eventually appeared to lead us (Media) and those waiting in the Meet and Greet line to O-Town. Leading up to the room where the Meet and Greet took place were what seemed like millions of stairs! Once atop the staircase the door opened into a tiny, tiny room! And to the right were all five O-Men, squished onto this three seater couch behind a low table (I remember thinking, "POOR Dan & Trev!" who had to sit on the ends).

The overall Meet and Greet was a fabulous experience because Mike Morin only allowed a few people in at a time. This allotted the necessary time for everyone to get everything signed. As a whole, each group of fans was able to spend about five minutes with the guys, talking, obtaining autographs, and taking pictures! Mr. Morin HIMSELF even acted as photographer quite a few times for people - it was neat! This tiny room heated up FAST, and as I said, the guys were squished on this little couch. BUT, you never would've known it from their demeanor. They were gracious to everyone, had smiles and conversation for everyone, posed for every picture, and signed EVERYTHING put in front of them. And they continually thanked each fan who came through. Don't EVER let anyone tell you O-Town a) doesn't have fans or b) doesn't CARE about the fans. They are appreciative beyond belief.

As we walked in, the guys were all smiles, greeting everyone with a friendly hello. Dan beamed and welcomed fans warmly. He was interested in everything that he was being told. Ashley was the same. Erik-Michael made a point of hugging fans and signing everything passed his way, all the while being genuine and kind-hearted to all in attendance. Jacob was extremely kind to everyone and even paid high respects to AQW for her photography skills (more on that in a bit)! Trevor, as usual, was pulling people in from every direction for pictures; he even pulled one girl across his lap for a pose!