Chicago Sun-Times reports:

A birthday celebration got out of hand for a Wisconsin man, who is accused in two states of firing his gun into the air — including while driving, police said.

Ryan Stanek (former BROKEN HOPE drummer), 39, of Trevor, Wis., fired shots into the air near the intersection of Main and Orchard Streets in Antioch at 2 AM Friday, according to Antioch Police Chief Craig Somerville.

He was cited with disorderly conduct while armed and discharge of a firearm within 100 feet of a residence.

Read more at this location.

Former Broken Hope/current LUPARA guitarist and author Jeremy Wagner recently posted his first video blog online.

An update from Wagner states: “This video blog was filmed and edited by my friend and award-winning video director/indie movie producer, Frankie Nasso of Nova Entertainment Group (MUDVAYNE, HATEBREED, HELL YEAH, EMMURE, etc.). Frankie is currently finishing the treatement for my book-trailer (for The Armageddon Chord).

As I continue promoting the upcoming release of my debut novel, The Armageddon Chord, I thought this clip would provide a cool peek into my home and I'd share the things I surround myself with that inspire me as I write my novels and music (ie: horror decor, art, my library, music, books I love, movies, ESP guitars and more).”

Watch the video below:

As previously reported, Wagner recently signed a book deal for his debut novel, The Armageddon Chord.

An updated from Wagner states: "As you can see, I've unveiled the artwork for both the trade paperback version and special, limited hardcover version of The Armageddon Chord, for all to see.

The trade-paperback cover was designed by artist Chris Jones and this edition will be in bookstores everywhere. The limited-edition hardcover design was created by artist Joe Lohr. The limited-edition hardcover will also contain exclusive artwork inside by artist Claudio Bergamin along with other cool features.

Moreover, kRP Publishing has also given me the official release date for The Armageddon Chord as (drum-roll....): August 22nd, 2011. I'll provide more details regarding special bonuses relevant to both editions of the book along with info on the e-book version."

The synopsis for Jeremy Wagner's The Armageddon Chord reads as follows:

"An ancient and evil song written in hieroglyphics is discovered; once transcribed and performed, the song will bring the Apocalypse upon the Earth and a gifted guitarist finds himself caught between the forces of good and evil."