From: Ron Ivanjack
Carbondale was my 8th show of the Farewell tour and my 2nd General Admission show so I had a pretty good idea of what to expect. I made the 6-hour pilgrimage with my Mom for her 2nd show of the Farewell Tour. It only seemed right to share this experience with the person responsible for brining Kiss into my life 21 years ago.

We arrived at the venue at 3 with 3 hours until the door opened. There was a merchandise booth set up outside so I picked up the Carbondale event shirt and another new design from the famous “Outer Space” photo shoot from ’76. The sweltering heat could not take away from the fact that we were third in line at our door and destined for the front row. Just before 6, the venue staff came out to distribute wrist bands for those of us with G.A. floor seats. This was the first sign that this venue had a top-notch staff. At 6 when the doors opened, we made a mad dash for the stage and got the exact spot I wanted-front row in front of Ace’s riser.

Skid Row played their usual tight 30-minute set. Even with Bas, I really enjoy their set. Scotti Hill threw guitar picks both to me and my Mom. Ted’s set was also the usual although he has added a small mock campfire during Fred Bear.

Some 6 hours after our arrival, it was time for Kiss. Nothing can beat seeing Kiss from the front room. Contrary to what anyone says about the band looking tired or drunk or the set being the same, when you’re in the front row you see that people love to complain. The band looked, sounded and acted great. Al the effects went off. When Ace shoots his second rocket, a entire section of lights crashes down instead of the previous one. There was a little less pyro no doubt due to the smaller sized venue. A member of Kiss’ crew spotted my Mom and asked if she was okay. He returned a moment later and gave her a handful of Paul picks. During Paul’s Do You Love Me wrap, I saw Ace grab a pick from his pouch. I was wearing my Ace shirt and he winked at me and threw me a pick. It was one of the special event picks. Paul and Gene also spotted me and threw me picks but they sailed over my head. Before RARAN Ace threw me another pick-a white one this time. Halfway through Beth, one of the security guards walked over and handed my Mom one of Peter’s roses. They also spent much of the show handing out glasses of water to anyone that needed it. It was the most professionally run concert I’ve ever attended.

Kiss never disappoints. I can’t believe I’ve now been in the front row twice and even got my Mom up there. After listening to the band for 21 years, it is so fulfilling to have each member of the band notice you even if only for a moment. The best part is that I have four more shows left.

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