Volume 11, Issue 1 ConNotations February/March The Bi-Monthly Science Fiction, Fantasy & Convention Newszine of the Central Arizona Speculative Fiction Society

seem to develop, it starts to distance him from a real human being,” Raimi ReAnimation In This Issue 24 Frames explained. “It distances him from the Movie News & Reviews average kid in school. So we felt since Anime Reviews he’s bitten by this spider and he takes on News & Reviews By Lee Whiteside the powers of this spider - crawling By Craig L. Dyer SF Tube Talk ...... Back Cover walls, the ability to leap like some 24 Frames spiders have, great proportionate Over the Holidays I had a chance to Lord of the Rings Principal Filming by Lee Whiteside ...... 1 Concludes strength relative to his size- it was a look a few tapes and DVD’s. I have Peter Jackson and company finished logical progression to let him also spin given them a one to five star rating. ReAnimation principal filming on the three Lord of the his own webs. And in that way he * = Poor ***** = Fantastic By Craig Dyer...... 1 Rings movies shortly before Christmas. [would remain] a human being that we Videophile ...... 1 can identify with.” ** Sol Bianca - The Legacy 1: Even though principal filming is com- FYI...... 2 pleted, there is still a lot of work to be On the heels of his success with Lost Treasures done before the first movie opens on Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, *** Sol Bianca - The Legacy 2: CASFS Business Report...... 2 December 19. Ian McKellan explains this director Ang Lee’s next project will be Separation AZ Pro News **** Trigun 1 - The process in a message on his website The Hulk, a movie based on Marvel’s by Daryl F. Mallett ...... 3 $$60,000,000,000 Man (www.mckellen.com): Incredible Hulk comic. It will be ConClusion...... 4 produced by Gale Ann Hurd and **** Trigun 2 - Lost Past “The answer lies in the lie that all ...... 12 Marvel Studios president Avi Arad **** Trigun 3 - Wolfwood Gamer’s Corner filming is completed. ‘Principal photogra- **** Trigun 5 - Angel Arms based on a script by David Hayter, who In Our Book (Book Reviews).....14 phy’ of the actors is, indeed, finished and ** Hyper Doll B Acts 1 and 2. wrote the script for the X-Men movie. we don’t expect to be recalled to New ** Amazing Nurse Nanako 1 - Zealand. But each of us has a double who Memories of You Speical Feature may well be working again by the middle **** Dual 1 - Visions Filtered Memories ...... 5 of January, shooting essential linking **** Black Heaven 1 - Legend of shots, ‘pickups’ that Peter Jackson and Rock Bottom Forrester’ Found To Be Great .5 his editors need to mesh the final jigsaw ***** Nazca: Blade Of Fate Final Fantasy...... 6 together. In WETA’s digital workshops (Episodes 1-3) By Shane Shellenbarger Gandalf’s image, shot against bluescreen, ***** Nazca: Blood Rivals will be matched to backgrounds of deepest (Episodes 4-6) Moria or the highest sky, with a computer- ***** Nazca: Betrayal Of Convention & Fandom ized battling Balrog and soaring Gwaihir Humanity (Episodes 7-9) Club Listings...... 17 carrying him to safety from the Tower of ***** Nazca: Eternal Power Convention Listings...... 19 (Episodes 10-12 Orthanc. Andy Serkis’s Gollum will take Convention Registration Form.19 months to perfect. Even when the pictures ** Green Legend Ran are close to completion and Peter’s final * Catnapped cut is ready for New Line’s approval, the Art Work huge job of re-recording the dialogue has Sue Dawe ...... 4 to be done, with a cast now working on or ~~~~~~~~~~~ Sherlock...... 13 considering other projects in Australia, Sol Bianca - The Legacy Europe, Asia or North America. Then Warner Bros is still developing two ** 1 - Lost Treasures there are sound effects and music to be different Batman movies, one a live- *** 2 - Separation VideoPhile composed. All in all a good year’s work to action version of Batman Beyond, the AIC/Pioneer LDC, 60 Min, be done — and so the world must wait.” other a movie based on Frank Miller’s English Dubbed, 13up, $24.98 each Farscape - Premiere / I, E.T. Spidey & Other Super Heroes in the Batman: Year One graphic novel. Both $24.99, ADV Films Works are in the early development stages and Sol Bianca is a space pirate ship whose Filming has started on the Spiderman have not yet been given a production crew is all female. The Legacy 1 - Lost If you’ve not had access to the SciFi movie, which will star Toby McGuire as green light by Warner Bros. Treasures is about the captain’s family Channel and have been wanting to see Peter Parker/Spiderman, Kirsten Dunst as Star Trek X - Scripter is a True Fan heirloom that is stolen and it’s up to the what this Farscape show is all about, Mary Jane Watson, Willem Dafoe as Work continues on the script for the crew of the Sol Bianca to recover it. But a now’s your chance. If you are a Farscape Norman Osborn/The Green Goblin and next Star Trek movie, planned for young girl stows’away may make things fan and would like to get complete, uncut James Franco as Harry Osborn. The release sometime in 2002. John Logan more difficult. Later, during a routine episodes with bonus material, you’ve movie is being directed by Sam Raimi. (Gladiator) is finishing up the first draft treasure hunt, Jun and Mayo get trapped really got your chance. ADV Films has The script reportedly stays pretty true to of the script. He tells the official Star between Heaven and Hell as the rest of obtained the rights to release Farscape on the comic series, although things have Trek web site (www.startrek.com) that the crew fights with the Blue Comets to home video, and they’ll be releasing it on been updated some. Instead of a radioac- he has always been a big fan of Star get them out. VHS and on DVD with bonus features. tive spider biting Peter, it is a genetically Trek, “My mother tells me some of her In The Legacy 2: Separation, a terrorist First to be released is the “Premiere” altered one. Peter’s web-shooters will be earliest memories of our relationship was takes control of the Sol Bianca, but fortu- episode and the second produced episode, organic, not something created by Parker. my arguing with her to stay up late and nately, he plays the situation to Jani’s “I, E.T.”. “In the comic book, which I am a giant watch Star Trek,” Logan said. “She says strengths and she is able to answer the In “Premiere”, we see the start of the fan of, [Peter Parker] is a genius. And I was very non-confrontational as a situation in her favorite way with guns series where astronaut John Crichton we’re going to keep that. He’s a very child, but that obviously was important blazing. travels through a wormhole during a test smart kid. But when he can develop a to me. While other kids went out to play This series is Fully Computer Generated material that even 3M Corporation can’t of his Farscape experimental spacecraft, ( Cont’d on Page 6 ) ( Cont’d on Page 7 ) ( Cont’d on page 9 ) Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 1 FYI CASFS Business Report Who’s Who This Issue Faithful Reader, unnecessary. Editor: Stephanie L. Bannon ConNotations Now Bi-Monthly As you all know, the biggest news in HexaCon 11 changed its dates, because Co-Editors: Craig L. Dyer & Sue Beginning with this issue, ConNotations recent months involved election results. of conflicts with another convention that Martin will publish 6 times a year. Advertising Unlike the lovely State of Florida, attracts a large crowd. It is now sched- Graphics Editor: Craig L. Dyer rates remain the same but subscription however, we managed to successfully uled to be held July 27-29, 2001. Mem- Film & Video Reporter: Barry Bard rates have gone up $2 to $12 for 6 issues. elect officers—including a President—in bers take note; and if you haven’t bought Staff Writers: Pam Allen, Barry We hope you enjoy the change. just one night. CASFS doesn’t have term your membership yet—why not? It’s only Bard, Craig L. Dyer, Michael Griffin, CASFS Sponsored Book Discussion limits, so our incumbent President and $20! Check out http://www.casfs.org/ Bob LaPierre, Daryl F. Mallett, Shane Groups Vice President, David Hungerford and hexacon/hex11/hex11.html for more Shellenbarger, Tom Tuerff, Lee We have two monthly book discussion Lee Whiteside, remained in office. Two details on what to expect. Whiteside, Randall Whitlock, Mike groups going, one at Glendale Public incumbent board members, Jim Cryer and The biggest news to you guys, of Willmoth Library on the first Thursday of each Stephanie Bannon, also retained their course, is the announcement that Layout & Design: Stephanie L. Bannon month and another at Barnes and Noble positions. I would like to welcome the ConNotations is going to be published Keeper of the Mailing List: Craig L. in Metro Center on the fourth Thursday third and newest member, Bob LaPierre, bimonthly rather than quarterly. That’s Dyer and Doug Cosper of each month. Here’s a schedule of to office. Congratulations, Bob; I’m sure right, six issues of your favorite fannish Contributors: Catherine Book, C.F. upcoming books: you’ll do a great job. zine, delivered right to you. Don’t forget Yankovich Labeling Crew for Volume 10 Issue 4: GLENDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY: 1st A bylaw was passed, eliminating us at Hugo time.  Special thanks to our Thursday of each month Article X from the bylaws. Article X, for tireless editor, Stephanie Bannon, for Stephanie Bannon, Craig L. Dyer, Ray & Pinkie Gish, Mike Griffin, Bob & Lori March 1: Cosmic Engineers by Clifford those of you who are interested, estab- volunteering to take on the extra work. LaPierre, Sue & Jo Martin, April Rice, Simak lished a bid for the 1999 NASFiC under Until next time, Gary Swaty, Gus & Garion Talbot April 5: Road Marks by Roger Zelazny the aegis of CASFS. As the bid has been The Frantic Scribe About ConNotations: ConNotations is May 3: Ghatti’s Tale: Finder’s Seekers defunct for some years, the article is the fan published newszine of the Central by Gayle Greeno Arizona Speculative Fiction Society June 7: Callahan’s Crosstime Saloon by (CASFS) an IRS-recognized 501(c)3 non- costumed characters. An assortment of Spider Robinson books. Three stages will be dedicated to profit organization. Circulation is For information on the Glendale group author discussions on a variety of topics exhibitors including CASFS, LepreCon estimated at 4,000 readers for this issue, contact Sue Martin at 623-939-7815 all with a southwestern influence. And Inc, booksellers, publishers, libraries, primarily CASFS members and attendees BARNES & NOBLE METRO CEN- kids will enjoy an entertainment stage bookmakers, artisans and even reading of recent AZ sf/f conventions. TER: 4th Thursday of each month geared for the young reader. groups will offer something for every Subscriptions: The newszine is currently Feb 22: The Arkadian by Lloyd In addition to the stages of entertain- interest and every level of reader. sent free of charge to anyone who has Alexander ment, the festival will host a children’s For further information please contact: attended a CASFS or LepreCon sponsored Mar 22: Seer’s Blood by Doranna area with hands-on arts and crafts [email protected] convention in the last two years and to all Durgin including papermaking as well as CASFS members. Subscriptions are avail- April 26: Star Wars: Rogue Planet by able. Cost for a six issue subscription is: Mike Stackpole USA: $12/bulk, $18/First class; Canada & May 24: Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Press Release – DarkCon 2001 Mexico $18/First class or Europe $25/ Card airmail. Request rates for other countries. Copyright: Articles, fiction, photos and June 28: Cities In Flight by James Blish When the Membership of the Dark Ones, Inc. voted to have artwork in this issue are copyright © of the For information on the Barnes & Noble author/artist and cannot be reproduced in group contact Stephanie at 602-973-2341 DarkCon 2001 it was with a great degree of caution. As a new any manner without their written consent. If you would like CASFS to sponsor a “Science Fiction / Fantasy” convention trying to become established in If no author or artist is credited the book discussion group near you, please the valley there is of course some financial risk. artwork or article is copyright ©of the contact Stephanie at (602)973-2341 Central Arizona Speculative Fiction BORDERS FANTASY & SCI-FI Due to losses at the first two DarkCons in 1995 and 1999 the Society. BOOK DISCUSSION: 4th Wednesday membership set down goals to be met by the committee of DarkCon Publication: Publications dates are cur- of each month at Borders, 7320 W Bell . 2001. These goals would be the guidelines for moving forward on the rently February, April, June, August, Feb 28: House Atreidesby Brian Herbert October & December. Publication date of & Kevein J. Anderson convention and designed to minimize any losses. this issue is 01/31/2001; mailing date is March 28: Good Omens by Terry The Chair, Secretary and Treasurer of DarkCon 2001 agreed 02/05/2001 Advertising: ConNotations reaches Pratchett & Neil Gaiman to meet or exceed the goals when they were placed in their positions. For contact Deborah and Tanya at 623- approx. 4,000 science fiction, fantasy, 487-9110 If these goals were not met, then the Membership would at that time gaming and horror fans throughout the INFORMATION LINE: For up to date cancel DarkCon 2001 to avoid the potential financial losses to the Phoenix metro area, the Southwest and nationwide. Our ad rates are:Back cover/ information on each month’s CASFS and corporation. fan sponsored sci-fi related events call $150, $100/full page; $70/two-thirds page; As of 12/31/00 DarkCon 2001 has not met these goals. $50/half page; $35/one-third page; $25/ (602)973-2341 and select option 7 for a one-fourth page; $18/one-eigth page. More pre-recorded message. There is also a Therefore it is the duty of the Board of Directors, on behalf of the information can be obtained by contacting weekly email update. If you wish to Membership, to at this time to cancel DarkCon 2001. Stephanie L. Bannon, Email: receive the email update send your email Any further inquiries into this matter should be addressed to: [email protected] or [email protected] or address to Stephanie at [email protected] Mail: PO Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082- LOST & FOUND If you lost anything at The Dark Ones, Inc. 2613 Phone or FAX; (602)973-2341 a LepreCon, HexaCon or CopperCon in Submission Info: Writers and artists are the past two years, please contact PO Box 82575 encouraged to submit work for publica- Stephanie at 602-973-2341 and describe Phoenix, AZ 85071 tion. While we cannot pay you for your the item. I’d like to reunite these items efforts your work will be seen by over with their owners if possible. -or- 4,000 fans across the Southwest and the AZ Book Festival country. You will retain the copyright to your work for future publication. To The Fourth Annual Arizona Book www.darkones.org submit your work or for more information Festival is a free springtime event hosted please write to: ConNotations; PO Box by the Arizona Humanities Council, on 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082-2613 or Saturday, April 7, 2001 at Margret T. For those who purchased DarkCon 2001 Memberships, contact us via Email at [email protected] Hance Deck Park (Third Street south of you will receive your refund via mail by February 28th, 2001. Contact Information: ConNotations and McDowell Road) in Phoenix. The Book its contributors can be contacted by mail at Festival will feature the largest gathering PO Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082-2613 of authors on hand for readings, discus- Thank you to all the people who supported DarkCon 2001! or via email at [email protected]. sions, to answer questions and sign ISSN: 1082-7765 Page 2 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 11 (maybe), to testify for the U.S. collection The Baku (Subterranean Press) January will see the release of three new PRO NOTES Department of Health and Human is at the bindery and finished copies chapbooks to our line. Holy Rollers, by Services’ National Committee on Vital should be available by the end of the first James Newman, DeadFellas, by David By Daryl F. Mallett and Health Statistics. Then February 2, week in the new year. And I’m reassured Whitman, and Natural Selection, by Happy New Year…and New Millen- I’m back to give a keynote to The by Dan Simmons that his introduction for Weston Ochse. All chapbooks retail for nium (since everyone KNOWS the new Association of Grantmakers about “The the collection Flirting with Death $8.99 and are deluxe quality with full millennium started THIS January 1st, and Future of Philanthropy” (of all things!) (Cemetery Dance) will be completed the color glossy covers and incredible interior not last…). [see ]. Cheryl and I fairly hefty collection of my horror and later this month when the new catalog I spent Thanksgiving in snowy Utah with took a very quick trip to Paris and then suspense fiction can go into production goes online after the end of the sale.” friends (I hadn’t been in the snow in Barcelona, where I gave speeches and for publication around mid-year.” DarkTales Publications editor Victor probably 15 years); Christmas in warm interviews to help present The University Beat writer Brio Burgess says, “a Heck has signed an agreement with California with family and friends; and of Catalonia Literary Awards. Paris was, chapbook of some of my poems--Saratoga Spanish publisher HT Editores to publish freezing Minnesota for New Year’s with of course, wonderful, despite being as Ice & Rocking Horse Blues—was brought a Spanish version of The Asylum anthol- friends. dirty and rude as we recall from living out by David Greenspan of Butcher ogy series, as El Manicomio. More The Big Event approaches for the there from 1990-92. Naturally, we ate Block Publishers in Oneonta, NY on information can be found by visiting western half of the SCA, and we’re off like crazy and walked off every calorie, December 11, 2000. WAIL!, a book of and toEstrella War XVII in February (Queen rushing about to see all our old favorite memoirs published by Daryl F. Mallett clicking on the “Manicomio” button at Creek, AZ). sites and many new ones. Paris in late at Jacob’s Ladder Books, is to come out the bottom. The Psycho Ward is sched- Brian W. Aldiss sends: “As I expect November can be brutally cold, windy in the Spring of 2001. I graduated with uled to be released in Spain in June 2001. you have seen, posters for Steven and wet, and yet all the museums were my M.A. degree in English/Creative A brief glimpse of our upcoming titles for Spielberg’s A.i. are already about. packed! What a racket they have going. Writing on December 16, 2000 from The early 2001 follows (i.e., Feb.-May—this Beautifully clever and severe. You will Barcelona was warmer. It is a jewel of a College of St. Rose in Albany, NY, and is by no means complete; more info have heard that Spielberg has been given city, filled with wonders and the most my short story, “Electric Eyes,” is being always on the way so stay tuned): The a knighthood—quite a rare honour for an delightful people. The blend of old and published in the Graduate Chapbook of Compleat Levesque, a deluxe chapbook extraterrestrial—pardon me, I mean to hyper-new is better than anywhere I’ve The College of St. Rose’s English poetry collection by Richard Levesque; say a foreign national. Let it be placed on seen. I was surprised to learn that the Department on January 29, 2001. I am Six-Inch Spikes, a tpbk. collection of record how genial and generous have Catalonian language is closer to French also listed in The Directory of American erotic horror by Edo van Belkom; Faust: been his dealings with me. The same (actually Occitan) than it is to Spanish! Poets and Fiction Writers 2001-2002.” Love of the Damned, a tpbk. media tie-in certainly goes for Warner Brothers UK, The architecture of Gaudi is simulta- Dan Case’s book, The Complete Guide screenplay book for the movie Faust by and their Vice President, Rick Senat. neously so wonderful and offensive that it to Writing and Selling Magazine Articles David Quinn; Cold Comfort, a tpbk. U.K. publisher, House of Stratus, has makes the brain hurt, provoking unex- is “finally for sale now.” collection of horror stories by Nancy bought two new novels from me: The pected thoughts. That is what the best art Artist “Paul Castiglia here, with the Kilpatrick; and The Charm, a tpbk. Cretan Teat and Jocasta. I am expecting should do, of course, even when it’s same old news: still writing the Archie reprint of the novel by Adam Niswander. a U.S. sale when my New York literary painful. I’ve been busy with this new comic book series, Archie’s Weird Artist Max Espinoza tells us, “I’m agent comes through. Stratus is negotiat- public speaking thing. In June, I spoke to Mysteries…” going for my play called Weather ing to buy another ten books from my a World Bank Conference in Miami, then Sandra Chang is releasing web Permitting getting its first staged reading back list. That makes four such batches to a Pentagon futurist meeting, then animations from her futuristic series in February, with hope for a full produc- they have bought.” DARPA, The Library of Congress...and a Akemi. They’ll be seen at and . Installments of and Wade, and is going for his second half way through and desperately trying Gift Shop -DFM] on the planet. The Akemi are released monthly in YOLK book which we hope can be printed late to complete by the end of January. The week before I was in Cincinnati, address- Magazine and published issues of Akemi this year. We currently have our website book is to be published next November in ing the execs and techies of Procter & can be seen at . up () for any Blackwood’s death.” gathering in Las Vegas, where I met got a mainstream novel coming out from and all who need artwork and graphics Marleen Barr has had two books come Penn & Teller! Penn is bigtime a sci-fi Xlibris Books and we’re getting ready to come out with out recently: Genre Fission:A New and technology fan. My prediction as a called Thinking of You in January. new books of satire this year—no plans Discourse Practice for Cultural Studies “noted futurist”? I predict my present Xlibris is a print-on-demand company. yet, however, to appear in a booth at con (Univ. of Iowa Pr.) and Future Females, surge of fancy speaking engagements will It’s really a novel of “high strangeness” this year…” The Next Generation: New Voices and all dry up in 2002, when people, sick of with some SF twists toward the end. The Artist Adam Gastelum sculpted the Velocities in Feminist Science Fiction “da futchah,” will go nostalgia-crazy and SF novel I’m working on now is called props for The Labyrinth of Jareth Criticism (Rowman & Littlefield). want nothing but retro! In a few weeks The Karma Kommandos. I will be Masquerade in December. He is also David Bischoff has been very busy. He I’m heading to Chattanooga for a science turning it into my agent probably some- finishing the works for his new exhibit has “three new books and an old one out fiction convention, where I also hope to time in the summer. I’m also writing “SOMINIUM,” which opens in March in from Wildside Press”: novels Philip K. walk the site of The Battle of Lookout classical music reviews for amazon.com, San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well Dick High and J. R. R. Tolkien Univer- Mountain. It’s the most amazing thing. ClassicsToday.com, and Andante.com. as drawing the last chapters of the dark sity, and a short story collection, Tripping Faced with an almost sheer slope, the Busy, busy, busy.” cyberpunk series Dragon’s Edge, with the Light Fantastic, as well as a reprint of Union generals could not imagine doing a John Clute’s SF novel, Appleseed, is Shawn Strider. Nightworld. He also has “two book for frontal assault. Sherman’s way into the due out the first week of April from Brian E. Gross reports: “My first Foggy Windows Press--Diplomatic Touch South was blocked. Rebs on the ridge Orbit/Little Brown in the U.K. “The story, “Last Chances,” will be published and The Last Wild Ride [as well as] lots above kept peppering the Union troops Canadian release is simultaneous, and I’ll (under the name Earl W. Parrish) on a of short stories in Marty Greenberg below with harassing fire. Big mistake. be doing a very short tour (Toronto- limited edition, signed CD-ROM anthol- collections. I’m also writing articles for Frustrated soldiers started coming out of Winnipeg) between 5-9 April 2001.” A ogy titled Extremes 4: Darkest Africa Rampage [edited by horror writer their trenches, shouting defiance at the second SF novel, Earth Bound, is due for from Lone Wolf Publications (). It will be ment.” He also has a story in Heat, a louder. Then more, stepping closer. DarkTales reports that it has launched released some time in 2001. Extremes 1 Foggy Windows anthology and writes Then more. Then, to the horror of its own line of horror merchandise. is out now, Extremes 2 will be out in Jan music reviews for Progression and Sherman and the brass, the whole Union “Cthulhu t-shirts & sweatshirts, baby doll 2001, Extreme 3 and Extreme 4 will be Expose and has a FarScape tie-in novel Army started up, without any command. t-shirts for the ladies, DarkTales coffee out later in 2001.” coming out soon called Ship of Ghosts. Like an angry swarm, clambering in the mugs, Asylum mousepads, and more. Veteran writer James E. Gunn’s book, Veteran writer Ray Bradbury was the face of withering fire...and took the Additional products will be added soon, The Science of Science Fiction Writing keynote speaker at the “Wrangling with mountain and won the war. After that and our shirt and mousepad designs will has been released from Scarecrow Press. Writing” conference, presented by The day, the South had no defensive line. change every so often as well, so check He says “you can sample it on my website Society of Southwestern Authors (19-20 Georgia lay open like a ripe fruit. It was back often.” Go to ), Jan 2001) in Tucson, AZ. the most important battle, and the www.darktales.com> and click on as well as the information on the summer David Brin says, “Soon I go to DC for soldiers themselves won it.” “Merchandise Catalog” in the main menu program” for the Center. Ed Bryant has “confirmation that my to see the items available. “The month of speaking engagements…twice—January (Cont’d on page 13 ) Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 3 Gounley and then Small Telescope from, etc. It seems he was given a pile of thing at once and she was the only server ConClusion Astrophotography. The latter was notes by Majel Barrett Roddenberry on in the whole place. Shortly after we got handled by Michael Weesner whom I the concept and he took it from there. His there a large group of Russians came in LosCon 27 Review had met at Honolulu’s Westercon. He was wife came up with the name for Trance for a pre-ordered dinner, so our service By Mike Willmoth an amateur astronomer as I am, but Gemini while they were driving on a road stopped for quite awhile as she served [email protected] brought his equipment to view the skies trip. There were lots of little tidbits like them en masse. from Hawaii. In Burbank he was showing that. Ray Bradbury was supposed to What is it about Sunday dinner? a display from his laptop for his web site give a talk, then do a signing, but he During the con we had time to visit the The Los Angeles Science Fantasy with photos he’d taken using an analog, didn’t show up. So, Forrey Ackerman Art Show and Dealers Room. The former Society (LASFS) puts on an annual then digital camera. It was pretty impres- came in instead and chatted with fans. I was well stocked and some really nice science fiction / fantasy convention called sive. I don’t have the web address (URL) moved to Ancient Medieval Economic stuff was available from Eggleton, but LosCon. This was the 27th annual one for you or I would list it here. Just do a Systems and got stuck there rather than those payments were killers. The DR had held in Burbank, California, at the search on his name and it should pop up. moving on to Plans For Space Explora- some of the usual items: clothing, Airport Hilton Hotel. It ran Friday Next I stuck my head into Alternate tion For The Next 20 Years. Oh well. jewelry, artwork, books (new and used), November 24 to Sunday November 26, History with Harry Turtledove, Bar- We did dinner with some more friends gaming stuff. I missed the Fan Lounge 2000. Guests-of-Honor were Orson Scott bara Hambly, Rick Foss and Will before returning for the evening activi- since last year it was used as the Video Card (author), Bob Eggleton (artist), Shetterly. As I left there I ran into some ties. My wife was upset at having missed Room. I also visited Anime’ briefly Harry Knowles (cybercelebrity - Ain’t It friends from the east coast and we caught the Celtic Cabaret with Rick Foss since it several times, but couldn’t get into what Cool News), Robert Hewitt Wolfe up on things in the hallway. I also visited got moved to Friday from Saturday; I had was being shown at those times. The (producer - Andromeda), Craig Miller briefly The Best SF Films of the Century stumbled into it the night before, but she gaming room had computers, but there and Genevieve Dazzo (fans) and Frank with Harry Knowles, Craig Miller, had already returned to the room. We was some sort of strange arrangement for Kelly Freas (illustrator). Chairs of this Larry DiTillio, Michael Engelberg and found out later from Rick that he had them. It seems they got them donated by year’s con were J. Shaun Lyon and Eric Hoffman. The taping of Hour 25 requested Friday all along due to all their Princess Cruises, but the hotel would only Christian B. McGuire. Programming (LA radio show that has moved to the schedules, but it got moved to Saturday give them one phone line to use for the was done by Mike Glyer web) was done by Warren James and without his knowledge. So, he had it Internet. I hope they plan better next year. (File770, Worldcon 1996 Chair). Suzanne Gibson; they interviewed the moved back. We missed the Masquerade I also understand that they had lots of My family and I have attended all but GoHs. I got to see this last year with which was reinstated this year. So, off I problems with the hotel this year due to one LosCon in the last decade and they Connie Willis and others, too, and it was went to the parties. Ours was this night staffing changes, so lots of stuff got can be a lot of fun. We usually travel over quite good. We went out to eat dinner, and I needed to help out. Before I did that passed over or dropped through the on Thanksgiving Day (for those in the then returned to the Ice Cream Social I wanted to hit the others. Near the cracks. I seem to recall that they’ll be U.S.) and return the Monday following. which had already run out of supplies. elevators I had a lengthy chat with Tom there next year, too. We flew the first few times, but found it a Actually, they still had sherbert, but it’s Veal (Worldcon Chair Chicago 2000) Before leaving the LA area we usually real pain to eat out without wheels. We not the same. The Regency Dancing with and Scott Dennis (Fo’ Paws Merchandis- try to visit a shopping area and we now drive over. As we did this year, John Hertz was going well when I went ing) about elections, politics, etc. It felt stopped in downtown Burbank. There are although we got started late and had TD in for a spell. He did our RD for like watching a ping pong game in some locally available things that we dinner at one of the few open restaurants Westercon in ‘92 here in Phoenix. Later, China. Slam left then slam right (in a can’t get here, so even though some of the in town before we hit the road. At least the modern dance also had energy, but friendly way). Once I made it to our party stores are chain stores, we still hit them they didn’t run out of turkey until we had not like what I’d seen last year at I ran into some native Arizonans, one of for treasures. And because my wife gotten our dinners! Gallifrey One. Please see my previous whom had moved to California and the bought lots of artwork I had to wrap it for I think we rolled into the hotel about review of that con. gal he was dating was from Gilbert. We the trip back home. We got packing tape 1:15am local on Friday. I had reserved a This year LosCon had lots of parties. got to compare notes and get updates on from Office Depot and managed to fit the Junior Suite which last year worked out Last year it was just a few with Phoenix our parts of town (since I’m from south large framed piece in the station wagon real well; it had a separate bedroom from hosting one for the 2002 Westercon bid Scottsdale). Again we received lots of without damaging it. I couldn’t see out the living room. Unfortunately, this year (that we lost to LA in Hawaii this last accolades for our efforts to pursue the the back window, but that’s not important they had us in a smoking JS, not non- summer). We were back for the 2004 bid, 2004 bid and we expect to remain when driving freeways in LA. Somehow, smoking as we are both asthmatics but only doing it Saturday night. All the unopposed throughout the bid, with any we made it home safely on Monday and (which is not to be confused with math- parties were on two floors this year, so it luck. San Diego is regrouping after their rested up from another interesting ematics, but that was my major in was easy to take the elevator to the higher primary sponsoring organization had a convention. All in all we had a great college). In order to accommodate us they floor and walk the hallways until you problem with their legal status, so they time. It wasn’t the best LosCon we’d had, gave us a board room in the west tower. reached the other end, then jog down the plan to bid for 2006 instead. We sold but it was one of the top ones. If you’ve Usually, we’re in the east tower with the stairs to the next floor and repeat. Besides some pre-support memberships both at never been, then I encourage you to try parties, so that wasn’t so bad. It turned the Worldcon parties (Boston and the party and at the fan table in the foyer one and see. Perhaps I’ll see you there out to have a double murphy bed (instead Charlotte were in attendance for the 2004 of the convention center (next to the east and we can compare notes. Until next of two doubles) and no sleeper sofa. bids) there were the Gaylaxians (didn’t tower). I think we may have even paid for Fortunately, my mother-in-law doesn’t time. stay long at that one), San Diego fans, the party! sleep horizontally, but sitting up. So, this Los Angeles (Westercon 2002), and a Sunday brought Two Millennia Of worked out on the regular sofa. The whole lot more that I can’t recall immedi- Roman Rule, Cleaning Up The meeting table was folded and put away in ately. It was quite impressive for LosCon. InfoDump, Film Trailers (movie pre- the closet along with the stack of meeting Saturday brought more programming. views), J. Michael Straczynski spoke chairs. Even with the armoire holding the Guest-of-Honor speeches, CGI: The New about his upcoming project with TV we still didn’t use a quarter of the Stars, Mojo: Foundation Imaging (got to Showtime on Jeremiah. It takes place in room. Plenty of space. see this one, he’s always entertaining), the future after a plague wipes out post- After a good night’s sleep we hit the Andromeda: The Writing Team with puberty humans. Now that the kids are restaurant in the hotel for breakfast/ Ethie Ann Vare, Ashley Miller and reaching puberty they have to decide: do lunch. Yet again the menu had changed Zack Stentz. There was synergy between we continue living off what’s left or do from the year before. They also had a these 3 writers and they talked about their we rebuild society. We didn’t bother with buffet going for breakfast, so we did that. backgrounds, how they came about to be Closing Ceremonies, so we hit a Russian We also saw lots of fen in the restaurant. writing for the show, etc. Robert Hewitt restaurant with the Foss’ and their Although we ate through the first set of Wolfe then gave a talk about Andromeda relatives. It was an interesting experience © Sue Dawe program events, we split up when we left TV show, how he came to the rights to do (we had done it last year as well) and our the restaurant. I attended a portion of it, where the characters’ names came waitress was a trip. She could only do one Galileo Mission To Jupiter with Robert Page 4 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 Filtered Memories: The Kapp, etc.) with Set Design by Matt Terrace at Legend City, Arizona’s largest Forrester’ Found To Be Great Marich, The Wallace & Ladmo Show is a (read “only”) amusement park, which was Wallace and Ladmo Show By Shane Shellenbarger By Shane Shellenbarger production that spares every expense but scrapped in the 80’s to make way for a laughter. Originally produced for the Salt River Project expansion. Glimpses of Do you remember Mr. Bubble, larger stage of Desert Foothills Theater in the old park can be caught in the video Despite what you may have heard, this Acquanetta, and Funny Face Drinks? March of 2000, Marich’s set combines collage for the song 1954, produced by film isn’t about being poor, or Black, or How about Roger Ramjet, Donkey elements from several periods in the Sharon Kelly and KPHO TV. Movie having Hoop Dreams. Finding Forrester Basketball, or Fizzies? Super Chicken? shows history and doesn’t greatly suffer House Mogul Dan Harkins makes a is about making and breaking connec- Legend City? The one thing they have in from being scaled down to the smaller cameo appearance when Wallace and tions with other people. common is a 35 year television program stage of Herberger’s Stage West in the Ladmo use their Time Machine to Jamal Wallace (played by newcomer, that was supposedly for children, but in production last June or it’s current third journey to the year 2001! th Robert Brown) is accepted by a prep actuality it appealed to all ages run through January 14 , 2001. The play They say you can’t go home again. is told from the perspective of Mike Things change, people change. The last school because of his test scores and For those of you who don’t have direct incidentally because of his talent with the experience with The Wallace and Ladmo Condello (Christian Miller), the Musical Wallace and Ladmo Show aired on Dec. Director of the show who started when he 29th, 1989; Ladimir Kwiatkowski Round Ball. While playing Basketball was fifteen. It’s set in late March of 1989 (Ladmo) died on March 2nd 1994; and with his friends, Jamal notices “The and the fall of 1964. While old time fans Mike (Commodore) Condello left us on Window” is watching his group. On a of the show will recognize favorite skits August 17th, 1995. Nothing is as it was. dare, Jamal sneaks into the Bronx (Mr. Grudgemeyer “Balloons! Bal- However, for two hours you can be a kid apartment, intent on removing an item to loons!”), those who didn’t grow up with again, maybe even enjoy a childhood you prove that he made it in. Instead he is so the show can still appreciate the humor, never had. I was heartened to feel a chill distracted by the collection of books he the comraderie, the pursuit of happiness, go up my spine at both the Desert finds that he is startled by the inhabitant and what it takes to walk away from a Foothills Theater and the Herberger Stage and leaves behind his backpack. “deal with the devil.” West when Ben Tyler introduced Pat Much of the play’s humor is derived McMahon. I joined the audience in a The next day, his pack hangs in the from local events and characters such as standing ovation to one of the partners window facing the Basketball court. the aforementioned Donkey Basketball in who holds a special place in my child- Jamal notices that the man who delivers which Wallace (Wes Martin), Ladmo hood. If you’ve missed the current to “The Windows” apartment has pulled (Hamilton Mitchell), Gerald (Bob production, contact the Herberger Theater up in his BMW. Both the car and the Sorenson), and Condello would play Box Office at 602-252-TIXS (8497) and man are out of place in this neighborhood Show, you may still know about Wallace, Basketball against the staff of such local tell them you want to “Tune in” to The and Jamal tries to engage the slightly Ladmo, and Gerald. Or Aunt Maud, or high schools as Bagdad High. On Wallace and Ladmo Show. Ho ho ha ha nervous man in conversation. After Boffo the Clown, or Captain Super, or donkeys! Really! The cast also makes hee hee ha ha! showing the man his is more than he Marshall Good. If you know who all of references to actress, Acquanetta, “The http://www.wallaceandladmo.com/ appears to be, Jamal is surprised to find these people are, you have a chance to Venezuelan Volcano” who was born on http://www.ladmo.com/ that his backpack has been returned to relive your youth and refresh old memo- an Arapaho reservation in Wyoming and http://www.johnnyfranklin.com/ ries. If you don’t know who those grew up in Norristown, Pennsylvania wallaceandladmo.html him in a slightly unconventional manner. characters are, you can be a kid again, at before she became a Manhattan model http://viewdesigns.com/book.html Further, he is amazed that his writings least for the two hours of the play, The who moved to Hollywood to appear in http://www.herbergertheater.org/ contained in the pack have been read and Wallace & Ladmo Show. such “B” movie classics as Tarzan and index.htm expertly commented on by the Man in the Written by Ben Tyler, Directed by the Leopard Woman (1946) and Captive http://www.azcentral.com/rep/music/ Window. Cathy Dresbach (an actor and writer for Wild Woman (1943) before she married articles/1214bestband7.html the show from 1984 to 1989) Produced by Arizona car dealer, Jack Ross. One of the http://www.azcentral.com/rep/music/ Bill Thompson (Wallace) and Pat great trips down Nostalgia Lane comes articles/1228moments28.html McMahon (Gerald, Aunt Maud, Hub when the cast talks about Compton

Thus begins a student-mentor relation- ship that seesaws back and forth as the teenager and the man each shares and betrays the hard-won trust of the other, but they remained bound by their com- mon love of the written word. Sean Connery’s performance as the curmudg- eonly irascible, one-novel genius, William Forrester, is filled with fire and is as cluttered with nuance as his apart- ment is crammed full of books. Brown as Jamal is low-key and subtle, but he’s no Shrinking Violet in Connery’s presence. This is an intimate story that is well worth the time of anyone who can appreciate the affect words and the people who speak them can have on us all. As Forrester says, “Family isn’t always what you’re born with-sometimes it’s the people you find, sometimes it’s the people who find you.” Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 5 have been busy editing Star Wars: Jun 15 - Tomb Raider, Altantis, Sword- have appeared on television. While it has 24 Frames (cont’d from page 1 ) Episode Two into recognizable form fish been reported that the film is not based on the game that same sense of wonder, that Cowboys and Indians, I was playing Kirk aiming towards a two hour plus cut. Jun 29 - A.I. “WOW” factor, also permeates the trailer and the Klingons. “When I got this job, it According to producer Rick McCallum July - Jurassic Park 3, Kiss of the for Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within. was a good feeling to call up my mother “There’s a lot of work to do, you go Dragon, Evolution, Final Fantasy, through various emotional stages when Planet of the Apes The detail is so amazing you can see the and say, ‘See? All this really paid off!’” wrinkles, eyelashes, even the pores on the Picard and crew will face off against reviewing this footage. At times, you August 2001 - Osmosis Jones, Collateral have to face the truth of what you didn’t Damage, Jason X skin of the characters. You can count the new aliens and some familiar ones, freckles on the face of the heroine, you including Romulans. Logan has created a get and what you hoped for. The second Fall 2001 - Queen of the Damned, 13 stage is that you’re amazed by all the Ghosts, Bones, 2001: A Space Odyssey can almost feel the breeze that caresses new foe for Picard that he thinks ranks up her hair, and you can sense the things you did get that you didn’t even (re-issue), Harry Potter and the there with Kirk’s nemesis Khan. As a fan shockwaves from explosions. It’s been think you got. And then the third stage is Sorcerer’s Stone, Monsters, Inc. Fellow- of the show, Logan will be paying reported that sixteen cameras are being attention to the details of the Trek that you see certain things are infinitely ship of the Ring used to digitize actor’s bodies so that the universe. “There will be lots of little better than you could have even imag- motion capture computations will allow things that fans will recognize,” Logan ined.” Final Fantasy: for realistic movement and action. This says. “I want to put in a lot of cool stuff Lucas screened the first three and a half The Spirits Within will be a beautiful film! Few details about that no one in the main audience will reels of the movie to staffers at Industrial By Shane Shellenbarger the films plot are currently available other understand, but fans will see and get it Light and Magic to give them an idea of than it takes place on a post-apocalyptic right away. One of the best parts about what they have to look forward to If you’ve attended a few films during Earth in 2065, involves a fight with writing this is that I get to do things with working on. . “It’s the first time George the Thanksgiving through New Years invading aliens, and deals with the the races, the characters and the has gone through every single scene,” period and you weren’t in line for questions of what is life and what homeworlds that I’ve always wanted to explains McCallum. “ILM is ready to popcorn during the previews, you’re happens after death. do.” pounce on this.” going to be nodding your head in agree- The director is Hironobu Sakaguchi “The very fact that they hired me and Upcoming Movie Release Dates ment with what I have to say next: go see (producer of the games Final Fantasy I- VIII), and the screenwriters are Al are supportive of what I am doing with Feb 2 - Valentine Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within. Reinert (cowriter of Apollo 13), Jeff “Star Trek X” should show fans some- Feb 9 - Hannibal If you haven’t seen the trailer for this Mar 30 - Spy Kids July 13th, 2001 release and you don’t Vintar (cowriter of Long Hello and Short thing. This is a very ambitious story, and Goodbye) and Hironobu Sakaguchi it takes some risks,” says Logan. “I think Apr 6 - Pluto Nash know what I’m talking about, read on. You may be familiar with the (debut) what I will bring to it is my love for the Apr 11 - Monkeybone, Pokemon 3 SquareSoft video Role-Playing Game The actors who lend their voices include characters and the world of Star Trek. At May 11 - The Mummy Returns series, Final Fantasy, with FFIX (9) the Ming-Na (Doctor Ani Ross) whose age 39, to be able to sit in the captain’s May 18 - Shrek, American Outlaws, Cheaters current release available for the Sony previous voice acting included Disney’s chair is a dream come true; my hope is Mulan and her other feature film credits May 25 - Pearl Harbor Playstation, and FFX (10) and XI (11) in that it will form every part of my writ- include 12 Bucks, One Night Stand, Jun 1 - A Knight’s Tale the works for On-Line gaming and Sony ing.” Street Fighter, The Joy Luck Club and the Jun 8 - Dr. Dolittle 2, House of a Playstation2. If you haven’t played the Star Wars: Episode II Well Into Post- games you’ve probably seen clips that Production Thousand Corpses (Cont’d on page 7 ) George Lucas and editor Ben Burtt

Page 6 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 fall-down-funny performance as Hades in well as the telefilms The Secret She ReAnimation (Cont’d from page 1 ) Fantasy (cont’d from page 6) Disney’s Hercules. His recent feature Carried and Fight for Justice: The Nancy independent feature “Call O’ The Glen” credits include Any Given Sunday, The Conn Story. Digital Animation. The Graphics were She was a regular on the NBC series General’s Daughter, True Crime, The It‘s been reported in Variety that Square very good. Sol Bianca - The Legacy 1and “The Single Guy” and she can currently Virgin Suicides, John Carpenter’s USA will start production on Final 2 - Lost Treasures and Separation would be seen on the NBC drama, “ER”, as Dr. Vampires, My Name is Bill W. and Fantasy 2 soon after finishing this film in make a lot more sense if you saw the two Deb “Jing-Mei” Chen. Contact. early 2001. They expect that they will be previous tapes Sol Bianca 1 and 2. -CLD Alec Baldwin (Captain Grey) starred in Donald Sutherland (Doctor. Sid) was able to trim a third off the four years the recently released State and Main, recently seen in Space Cowboys. His spent on the first that puts the FF2 release **** Trigun 1 - The Thomas and the Magical Railroad, and other feature film credits include Instinct, sometime in 2004. The only details given $$60,000,000,000 Man 100 Min Outside Providence. His film credits Virus, The Puppet Masters, Fallen, The about the sequel is that the film will **** Trigun 2 - Lost Past include The Hunt for Red October, Lifeforce Experiment, A Time to Kill, develop the characters further and take 75 Minutes Mercury Rising, The Edge, Beetlejuice, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Invasion of the place in the same setting. **** Trigun 3 - Wolfwood The Marrying Man, The Juror and Body Snatchers and Six Degrees of The Film: 75 Minutes Ghosts of Mississippi. Separation as well as the classics Klute, http://www.finalfantasy.com/ **** Trigun 5 - Angel Arms M*A*S*H, The Day of the Locusts and http://www.spe.sony.com/movies/ 75 Minutes Ordinary People. finalfantasy/ Pioneer Entertainment, English Ving Rhames (Ryan) earned a Golden http://www.squareusa.com Dubbed, Rated: 13up $24.98 each Globe nomination for his performance as http://www.movie-list.com/f/ Don King in HBO’s Don King: Only in finalfantasy.shtml Based on the comic by Yasuhiro America. His feature film credits include http://starbulletin.com/1999/01/15/ Nightow, Trigun is a post-apocalyptic Mission: Impossible 1 & 2, Entrapment, features/story1x.html future comedy western. The legendary Out of Sight, Con Air, Rosewood, The Actors: Striptease, Jacob’s Ladder, The People www.ming-na.com Vash the Stampede is a gunfighter so Under the Stairs, Kiss of Death and Pulp The Games: ruthless that he has a $60 Billion bounty Fiction. http://www.squaresoft.com/ (You only on this head and entire towns evacuate at Steve Buscemi (Neil) will next be seen need to register for on-line play) the rumor of his arrival. Fortunately, the in Betty Thomas’ 28 Days. Buscemi’s http://www.alphaff.com/ real Vash the Stampede is more heroic other film credits include Armageddon, http://www.eyesonff.com/ (Slow to load) than ruthless, even if he does act like a Big Daddy, The Wedding Singer, Barton http://geocities.com/ericqkh/ complete idiot sometimes. Wherever Fink, The Hudsucker Proxy, Con Air, final_fantasy_9.htm Vash goes disaster is sure to follow which Escape From L.A., Pulp Fiction and http://www.geocities.com/~squarezone/ is why Meryl, a perky insurance agent is James Woods (General Hein) is a two- Fargo. ff9.html (Music and animation may slow searching for him to stop him from caus- time Academy Award¨ nominee for Peri Gilpin (Jane) plays Roz Doyle on down) ing more damage. The story follows Salvador (Best Actor, 1987) and Ghosts the NBC series Frasier. She has lent her http://www.ffshrine.com/main.html Vash’s travels in his attempts to live in of Mississippi (Best Supporting Actor, voice talents to the animated series http://members.tripod.com/ff-9/ peace, while everyone else wants Vash for 1997). Animation fans will remember his Hercules and The Lionhearts, appeared in http://geocities.com/rinoa242/ reasons of their own. the independent film Spring Forward as http://www.totalff.com/ (Cont’d on page 8 ) Mesa in 2004 Westercon 57 Bid July 2-5, 2004

It is time for another Arizona Westercon. Please support us and help us bring you the best Arizona Westercon of the new millennium. Pre-supporting memberships: $10 Friend of the Bid: $50 Includes voting fees at the 2002 Westercon and, if necessary, a supporting membership in the LA 2002 Westercon Bid Sponsor: $100 Includes all privileges of Friend of the Bid as well as free attendance, if desired, at the Locus Banquet when we win.

There will be a graduated scale of conversion to full membership in the Mesa 2004 Westercon depending on the level of pre support. Check our website at www.az-sf.org for more details.

We also are looking for fans and/or professionals interested in supporting the bid by being an active member of the bid committee. Please contact us at Mesa in 2004, PO Box 67457, Phoenix AZ 85082, Email: [email protected] Craig Dyer at (602)973-2341 - Email: [email protected] or Mike Willmoth at (480) 945-6890 - Email: [email protected]

Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 7 ReAnimation (Cont’d from page 7 ) about to become the subject of Dr. **** Black Heaven 1 - this may well appeal to not only the I really liked the story of Trigun and the Ogami’s greatest experiment. Legend of Rock Bottom Anime fan but to those who like a good character of Vash the Stampede. It’s one Nanako whined so much it was annoy- Pioneer Entertainment, 100 Min story. The 13 and up rating is more for of those that once I started to watch, I ing and her overly developed breasts English Subtitled, Rated: 13up, $24.98 the occasional four letter word than for an couldn’t stop until I had watched all the bouncing again and again and again was real gore. - Stephanie Bannon tapes I had. Trigun was a joy to watch. - demeaning. All of this got very old very Oji is a middle-management drone CLD quickly. The plot was choppy and tiring. whose only grip on sanity in the drudgery ** Green Legend Ran Not done very well. -CLD of his corporate lifestyle are the few Pioneer Entertainment, 120 min, ** Hyper Doll - Acts 1 and 2. shreds of hope surrounding his past life English Dubbed, Rated: 13 up $24.98 Pioneer Entertainment 80 Min En- **** Dual 1 - Visions as the amazing guitarist of Black Heaven, glish Dubbed, Rated: 13up, $14.98 Pioneer Entertainment, 100 Min a heavy metal band that almost made it. On a polluted Earth, mysterious objects English Dubbed Rated: 13up, $24.98 In his bleakest moment, the magic of per- fall from space and suck up air, water and Mew and Mica are super heroines from forming is restored to him when a beauti- living beings leaving the remaining in- space that get stuck here on Earth. They Kazuki is a nerd plagued by visions of ful and mysterious woman informs him habitants to live on a planet with no disguised themselves as mild mannered giant, destructive robots that no one else that only his special sound can save the oceans or rainfall and a landscape domi- high school students but in reality they can see. Before he knows what’s happen- universe from an evil alien invasion. nated by a huge monolith type object are fighting a never-ending battle to pro- ing, a pretty girl ensnares Kazuki, and Even though this was subtitled I enjoyed called Rodo. Generations pass - the Rodo tect the people of Earth. These two are then a mad scientist’s experiment throws the music and the feeling of being there. has become an object of worship, served out to keep the nasty giant jellyfish away Most married men will relate to this one. by the Rodoists who enjoy clean air and from the populace while keeping their Very well done, pass the air guitar. I water and control the restricted zones. clothes on. can’t wait to get the next tape. -CLD The Rodoists are opposed by the Hazard . In Act 2 Mew and Mica are just try- who wish to end the Rodoists control of ing to get through the day without ***** Each the world. things going wrong when Mt Fuji un- Nazca: Blade Of Fate (Episodes 1-3) Ran is an orphan who wishes to join the expectedly erupts and a giant worm Nazca; Blood Rivals (4-6) Hazard and overthrow the Rodoists. shows up to terrorize Japan. Nazca: Betrayal Of Humanity (7-9) While attempting to join the Hazard, Ran The target audience for Hyper Doll is Nazca: Eternal Power (10-12) meets a beautiful and mysterious girl about a 12 to 14 year old boys’ and it Pioneer Entertainment, 75 min each, named Aira. When she is taken away by shows. I was not impressed with Hyper English Dubbed, $24.98 each, 13+ Hazard officers, Ran recognizes one of Doll at all, but I’m not a young teen them as the person he blames for the either. It is cheaper to buy the DVD Kyoji is the reincarnated, immortal soul death of his mother. that the two tapes. The tapes cost more of an Incan warrior, as is his Kendo In his attempt to rescue Aira and exact than double the DVD. -CLD teacher, Tate. As their immortal souls revenge for his mother’s death Ran be- awaken, these close friends become the comes involved in events that will change ** Amazing Nurse Nanako 1 - enemies they were in their ancient Incan him as well as the entire world. him into his world of visions! Now the Memories of You past.. Tate wishes to release the power of The story is sort of Dune meets Star danger is very real and his allies are twice Pioneer Entertainment 60 Min Iriyatesse to destroy the world while Wars meets Boy Comes of Age story and as strange as he ever imagined! On the English Dubbed, Rated: 16up, $24.98 Kyoji seeks to stop him. Joined by other the conclusion is no surprise. Shown on plus side, he gets to drive the robots! awaken mortals should both Tate and the Sci-Fi channel, this is more less PG I really enjoyed this one. Of course I Dr. Kyoji Ogami is the world’s leading Kyoji refight their ancient battle over the rated. There is no inappropriate language am a Robo-Tech fan and this is somewhat surgeon, scientist and bio-engineer, fate of the world? nor is there blood and guts type violence. close to it. Can’t wait to see the next one. Nanako Shichigusa, an addle-minded This was an interesting story line, so This is OK for an afternoon with the kids -CLD whining troublemaker with over devel- much so that we watched all 12 episodes but the older Anime fan may find it too oped breasts, is his nurse, and house- in one sitting. The characters aren’t one slow and predictable to truly enjoy. - keeper. Despite Nanako’s flaws, she is dimensional, there are some subplots Stephanie Bannon along with the main storyline and as such * Catnapped Pioneer Entertainment, 75 min, English Dubbed, $24.98, Rated 8 & up

Catnapped tells the story of two young children, Toriyasu and Meeko, who travel to the hidden world of Banipal Witt, a world that belongs only to cats, in search of Toriyasu’s dog, Papadoll. In Banipal Witt the sun changes creatures from the real world into monsters and this is the fate that has befallen Papadoll. The evil sorcerer cat, Burburina, is using Papadoll along with the talent to turn any living thing into a balloon with just a touch, in an attempt to control the world. Can the kids, along with the help of a group of feline engineers, save Papadoll and defeat the evil sorcerer Burburina? My gut reaction is “Who cares?”. The animation is ok but the voices are so shrill they gave me a head ache. While the rating says 8 and up I don’t think the average 8 year old would be interested, this seems more aimed at the 5-6 year old crowd, though portions of it might frighten them. All in all I don’t think I’d recommend buying this one ... wait for it to show up on the Cartoon Channel. - Stephanie Bannon Page 8 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 Videophile (cont’d from page 1 ) haven’t been paying attention to recent the-shelf with no loss in product quality. Funding for the project has been cut off developments until now.) For the holi- And the marketing? Who wants to go see and the professor is going to send Jack coming out on the other end in the days we got a DVD player and some a movie that is only portrayed as the home to the El Simian Nature Preserve to middle of a space battle. Crichton crashes DVDs and I’m truly enamored of this destruction of the earth? Hey, it’s got a live with his chimp family. But, inevita- into an alien spaceship, killing it’s pilot, format and all it has to offer. Titan A.E. happy ending that reverses that! So rent bly, the professor dies before this can be and then finds his ship is pulled onto the is one fo the first DVDs we watched. the video and see what greatness Fox done and the evil college administrator sentient starship Moya. He discovers that This is the story of a young hero, Cale, threw away. - Michael Griffin sells Jack to a medical experimental lab. Moya is a Peacekeeper prison ship that who, reluctantly at first, goes on a quest Jack and his friend, the janitor, overhear has been taken over by it’s prisoners, to save humanity and find them a new Sleepy Hollow this plan and arrange Jack’s escape to D’Argo the Luxan Warrior, Zhaan, the home. Paramount, 105 min, $29.99, Rated: R return to the nature preserve. Delvian Priest, and the deposed Dominar Earth, 3028. The evil Drej, fearing what Directed by Tim Burton Meanwhile in the frozen north, we meet of Hynerian Empire, Rygel the Sixteenth. humanity has the potential to become, the Westovers. The son, Stephen, wants They are joined by Peackeeper Officer totally destroys Earth and most of the Sleepy Hollow is a dark fantasy that has to play hockey and joins the lackluster, Aeryn Sun, who is deemed contaminated humans. Cale’s father gives him a ring little resemblance to the original story. local hockey team. His sister Tara, who is by her Captain, Bialar Crais, and joins and sends the child to safety while he Icabod Crane (Johnny Depp) is a police deaf, is having trouble fitting in with her the rest of the crew of Moya in escaping takes the Titan, part ship, part something investigator sent to Sleepy Hollow to new classmates Crais’s pursuit. unexplained, into hiding. investigate a series of murders supposedly Of course, they find Jack, who has In “I, E.T.”, Moya crash lands on a Fifteen years pass and Cale (voiced by caused by a headless horseman. Katarina overshot his stop for the nature preserve backward planet in the Uncharted Ter- Matt Damon) has grown into a disillu- Van Tassel (Christina Ricci) is somehow and is lost in their small Canadian town. sioned young man, one of the few humans connected to the murders. Throw in some In typical kid movie fashion Jack helps on the Tau 14 salvage station. Enter real supernatural events, a wonderfully Tara make friends at school and teaches Korso (voiced by Bill Pullman) who has dark atmosphere along with a few comic the guys on the hockey team about having tracked Cale down in order to enlist his touches and the stage is set for a wonder- pride in themselves and doing their best, aid in finding the titan using the map ful story and a memorable film. helping the team go to the championships genetically coded in the ring Cale’s father This is definitely a Tim Burton film. for the first time. gave him. The effects are quite good, there are The characters are well-defined and the With the Drej in hot pursuit Cale several cameo appearances by notable humor will appeal to both adults and travels across the universe with the crew actors and all in all I think this will kids. All in all this was a throughly of the Valkyrie; Akima (voiced by Drew become a long time favorite film in enjoyable movie. - Stephanie Bannon Barrymore) and Stith (voiced by Janeane anyone’s collection. Garofalo) in a desperate attempt to find The DVD contains several extra Komodo the Titan before the Drej find and destroy features including the director’s commen- Sterling Entertainment; 90 mins, it. tary, cast bios and a making of feature. - $29.95, Rated: PG-13 The animation is wonderful - at times it Stephanie Bannon is so real it seems to be live action. The In typical, monster movie fashion we story, for the most part, moves quickly Princess Mononoke begin with a clandestine boat landing by and smoothly and holds the attention of 133 min., animated, smugglers bringing in exotic animals and ritories where the locals had never had a both the adults and youngsters watching. by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli endangered species. While transporting Close Encounter of any kind. While some Extra features on the DVD include the animals, one smuggler dumps a of the crew work to disable a homing bea- deleted scenes, a music video, trailers and This 1997 movie is touted as the state of smelly batch of eggs into the island’s con that would lead Crais to them, Crich- TV spots, a still gallery and a choice of the art, but I think ‘Akira: Ring of swamp and drives away. ton, Aeryn, and D’Argo venture out to English or Spanish subtitles and English Destruction’ from a decade ago is still Fast forward 19 years and we find find an anesthetic they can use on Moya. or French soundtrack in Dolby Surround just as good. The difference is that Patrick (Kevin Zegers) and his family They find the locals are afraid of them Sound. Also included is “The Quest For ‘Akira’ portrayed an urban, science arriving on the island for a last vacation and they are soon running for their lives. Titan” featurette, which is a “making of” fiction setting and ‘Mononoke’ shows a before the oil company finally drives The episodes serve as a good introduc- feature, a director’s commentary, which rural, fantasy setting. Both anime are so everyone away with their drilling. While tion to the show for the virgin Farscape intriguingly, is the movie with a voice good that you’ll forget you’re watching exploring, Pat is attacked by an unseen viewer. The picture quality is very good, over from the directors in place of the animation and just get overwhelmed by something. Escaping he and his dog, and the audio quality is outstanding. dialogue soundtrack and an interactive the imagery. ‘Mononoke’ has a luminous Buster, rush home to an empty house. They also have six minutes of additional Titan game to play on the Internet via forest with magical creatures and animal Before he knows it, Buster has been footage not seen on SciFi in the episodes, your PC. - Stephanie Bannon gods. It involves a princess girl raised by pulled out of the house through the dog which is a big plus for regular Farscape wolves and a village boy cursed by demon door, into the darkness. What’s worse, he viewers. On the DVD, both episodes TITAN A.E. (After Earth) blood. The story, dubbed in English, hears his parents on the front porch have a separate audio commentary track, 20th Century/Fox Animation takes place in medieval Japan and has a calling him, horrified screams and then with creator Rockne S. O’Bannon, Brian fine ecology theme. For a violent tale of an ominous silence. Pat is alone. Henson and Ben Browder (Crichton) on This movie did not deserve to take the apocalyptic war, that theme is still Weeks later, suffering from Post “Premiere”, and Claudia Black (Aeryn blame for killing Phoenix’s Fox Anima- conveyed with the subtlety and beauty of Traumatic Stress, Pat is brought back to Sun) and Anthony Simcoe (D’Argo) on tion Studios. It does deserve the title of haiku. - Michael Griffin the island by a psychologist, Victoria (Jill “I, E.T.”. Other special features on the state of the art for American animation, Hennessy) and his Aunt Amy, in an effort DVD include a “Making of a Space and Fox could have built upon this. Those MVP to help him remember the events sur- Opera” Documentary, an actor profile of 300 employees could have all kept their Warner Bros., 93 min, $19.96, PG rounding his parent’s disappearance. Ben Browder, plus a section with some of jobs churning out more great stuff. Meanwhile the oil company, knowing the conceptual drawings and another with Supposedly the box office receipts were I’ll admit that when we sat down to full well what is loose on the island, has an image gallery. The weakest part is the only a fourth of the production cost: $20 review this film I wasn’t thrilled. For the completely closed the island and sent image gallery, which puts the image in a million versus $80 million. But it is a most part, the recent crop of kid’s movies Oates (Billy Burke) to eradicate the frame that makes them take up only the truism in Hollywood that any movie can have been just that, movies that amuse endangered Komodos. The hunt is on as middle of the screen. The conceptual break even on cable and video sales. So kids and leave the adults watching the the humans hunt the Komodos and the drawings are neat to see, but a zoom was the executive decision based on profit clock waiting for the end. So it is with Komodos hunt the humans. capability would be nice, especially for margins? The video includes a promo surprise and pleasure that I can say MVP The plot is a little thin, in particular those viewers without a large screen TV. trailer on the making of the movie which doesn’t fall into this category, this is Oates’ motivation to serve the oil com- - Lee Whiteside shows where costs could have been cut actually a film the whole family can pany instead of exonerate himself, but way down. Big-name stars were used for watch together and enjoy. overall this was an enjoyable little Titan A.E. voices that any unknowns could have The premise is this: Jack is a sign- monster romp. There isn’t a whole lot of Twentieth Century Fox, 95 mins, done. And the stars didn’t draw the language speaking chimp who lives at a gore, the acting is OK and the Komodo $19.95, Rated PG crowds! The studio was apparently given college and is part of an ongoing teaching dragons are done nicely, though I think a blank check to build facilities. A lot was experiment. The opening sequences of the scale to the humans is off. - I have discovered a wonderful new spent reinventing the wheel and duplicat- Jack in his very home like “cage” sets the Stephanie Bannon format for home video, DVD. (OK, so I ing resources that could have been off- stage well for the action that follows. Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 9 Author Guest: Julian May Local Author: Diana Gabaldon at the Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort, Scottsdale, AZ for Julian May author of Black Tril- lium, Blood Trillium, Diamond Mask, Jack the Bodiless, Magnificat, Perseus CopperCon 21 Spur, Sky Annual Science Fiction & Fantasy Convention Trillium, The Adversary, The September 7-9, 2001 Golden Torc, The Many- Colored Land, Artist Guest: Mark Roland Metaconcert, The Nonborn Music Guest: Heather Alexander King. (Sponsored by the Phoenix Filk Circle) Mark Roland, artist, whose work incudes this piece: Diana Gabaldon Scheduled Participants for - author of the Coppercon 21 include: Outlander books: Outlander, Dave Duncan, Mel Gilden, Sean McMullen, Dragonfly in Yvonne Navarro,Janine Ellen Young, Liv Amber, Voyager Margareth Alver, Janet Berliner-Gluckman, Joe and Drums of Autumn Bethancourt, Larry DiTillio, Stephen Goldin, Francis Hamit, Thea Hardy, Peter J. Heck, David M. Heather Honigsberg, Michael Johnson, Katherine Alexander - Lawrence, Terry McGarry, Steve Miller, Gerald Celtic Musician David Nordley, Andrew Pollack, Irene Radford , Gary Raham, Ray Vukcevich, Sara Wrench, Will- iam F. Wu, Charlene C. Harmon, Laura J. Mixon- Gould, Henry Vanderbilt (All participants sub- Membership Rates: ject to change)

$30 April 30, 2001 EVENTS INCLUDE: For more information Location Info Holiday Inn Sunspree $35 August 26, 2001 Art Show, Prints, write: 7601 E Indian Bend Rd , $40 at the door Demos & Auction Coppercon 21 Kids 7-12 half price Anime Scottsdale, AZ 85205 PO Box 62613 (480)991-2400 Kids 6 and under - free Panels Phoenix, AZ 85082 Standard: $67 S thru Q with paid adult Consuite or call (602)973-2341 Suite: $125 S thru Q membership Dealers Room Email to: Those who pre-register Limit of 2 half-price Video [email protected] with the convention and child memberships Gaming reserve a hotel room by per 1 paid adult LARP August 26, 2001 Dealer’s Room Info Filking are eligible for our Cost: $60 per table: raffle. Winners get a Modern Dance Dealer’s tables include 1 Exclusively for our Children’s choice of: pre-registered full membership and 1 GoH Dinner for 2 Programming dealer’s room only pass. members: special Free Room Night Masquerade Dealer’s room passes are 2 Memberships to events, fun and Meet the Pros upgradable for one half surprises on the CopperCon 22 CharityAuction the current registration The SunSpree is a NO PET evening of Thursday to benefit rate. Limit 2 tables per hotel. We apologize for Sept 6 Reading is dealer. Contact Craig Dyer - the inconvenience. If you Fundamental (RIF) 602-973-2341 have trouble making reser- Check out our and vations, contact Volunteer Info Website at: Best Friends Animal Stephanie at 602-973-2341 Rebecca www.casfs.org/cucon Sanctuary or [email protected] Page 10 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 11 series, starting with TNG in Fall of 2001, will find out about Dawn’s true nature SF Tube Talk (cont’d from back cover ) GAMERS CORNER Deep Space Nine in Fall of 2004, and (including Dawn) and we’ll see more of By Bob LaPierre ancient prophecy. In The Void, Voyager Voyager in Fall 2006. TNN outbid SciFi Glory and the mysterious Ben, finding falls into an empty area of subspace and TNT for the rights, hoping to use out more about them and why they are Ever since I picked up my first copy of where there is no apparent means of Trek as a means to draw a broader here. In Crush, a Valentine’s Day “Chainmail” I have been hooked on escape. Janeway has to decide how to audience with their new emphasis on episode, Spike reveals his true feelings to fantasy RPGs. I have adopted numerous manage to survive and try to form an more mainstream programming. Buffy and Dawn gets a crush on Ben. In “house rules” to play, because the rules alliance with other ships trapped in the Elsewhere on UPN, they’ve already “I Was Made to Love You”, Buffy and the have always been confusing, complex, area. In the big budget two part episode cancelled one of their new genre shows, gang encounter a robot dangerously in contradictory, or non-existent for certain Workforce (airing on consecutive weeks, Freedom, and Level 9 is likely to love with her creator. We’ll have a circumstances. Now Wizards of the not in the same night), the Voyager crew disappear from Friday nights as well once crossover episode at the end of sweeps Coast« has come out with a new version is captured and are forced to become UPN has finished aired it’s initial order when Angel finds out that Spike is of Dungeons and Dragons«. At first I was laborers on an alien city, with no memory of 13 episodes. UPN plans to debut their smitten with the Slayer, he visits skeptical, after all I had been promised of their past lives. When Chakotay, mid-season genre shows sometime in Sunnydale to warn Buffy, although he is strange and wonderful things with the Neelix and Paris find Voyager missing March, nights to be determined (although unaware of Spike’s chip (you’d think previous versions. I joined the discussion when they return from an away mission at least one of them on Friday nights is a they’d at least let Angel know about lists, and talked to play-testers. I was told and have to track the crew and missing good bet). that!) It’s rumored that a time travelling of Eric Noah’s website ship down and rescue them from their First is All Souls, as described in UPN’s sentinel will help out in the battle with (www.rpgplanet.com/dnd3e) a veritable new lives. Of course, many of them don’t press release: “From prolific producer Glory that has been appearing as a cornucopia of information. Finally in want to leave their new lives, including background character in a few episodes August I bought the new Players Hand- Janeway who is happy and in love! already. Anya will find a way to become a book. According to Kate Mulgrew “I think vengeance demon again and has to It took several sessions to re-align my viewers will be surprised and delighted by choose between Xander and immortality. thinking to the different style, but it was On Angel, Angel’s dark turn continues, well worth it. The system is more with Wesley, Cordelia and Gunn starting intuitive, and less complicated then their own agency, and getting some previous versions had been. Arbitrary assistance from Virginia. Angel will limits have been removed, you can continue thwarting Darla, Dru, and gradually improve your base scores, and Wolfram & Hart. We’ll see Gunn’s best multiclassing is now easier and more friend in The Thin Dead Line played by logical than ever. Looking back I see my Jarod Crawford of Felecity. The last All Souls Cast hesitation as fear that we were being sold two episodes will be part of the crossover © UPN a “pig in a poke” again. But the new with Buffy, starting on Angel in “The version has allowed me to explore the Aaron Spelling comes All Souls, a Remains of the Day”, continuing on limits of character development and I chilling hospital drama that prescribes a Buffy the following week and concluding can’t break the system. The skills and healthy dose of terrifying paranormal on Angel that night. It will reunite Darla feats are balanced so well that whatever I Voyager occurrences and gripping medical and Dru with Spike and Angel. © Paramount do I have tough choices to make. emergencies, all with the added shot of a There’s not much advance news on Ryan Dancey of WotC championed detective mystery.” Set in a 300 year old Roswell to report. In an interview, creating something called the d20 system. it. In it, Janeway is in an altered personal- hospital in modern Boston, it stars Katherine Heigl (Isabel) had this to say This system uses D&D as it’s base and ity. But she’s terribly happy. You’ve Grayson McCouch as an enthusiastic about her character: “Isabel is becoming, allows the creation of compatible sce- never seen her act this young, this happy first year medical resident Dr. Mitchell I think, a far more interesting young narios by others. This is a remarkable or this in love. She comes to learn in a Grace. He begins to suspect that things woman, who is very complex, but who is move for WotC, to allow others to create very difficult way that this persona is not are not what they seem at the hospital, taking the things and experiences she’s modules and creatures for their best her reality, and she has to say good-bye to including the mysterious death of his dealing with and turning them into selling RPG. When they announced this it. It’s beautifully done.” father at the hospital 20 years earlier. something that is shaping her and who project numerous companies began Other episodes in the works include one Next is Special Unit 2, as described in she is and who she will be. I’m really gearing up to take advantage of it. The with the return of Q and his now- UPN’s Press release: “This sci-fi detective loving the evolving process of this most remarkable was Sword and Sorcery teenaged son, one where The Doctor series tracks the wild stories of Special character. She’s sort of coming into her Studios«. They are the result of a decides to pen his memoirs, and another Unit 2, a secret, high-tech precinct of the own now.” Heigl also said that the collaboration between White Wolf« and where Seven of Nine starts experimenting Chicago Police Department devoted to season will culminate in a big surprise Necromancer Games«. They brought out with a fantasy life, trying to recapture battling malicious, paranormal creatures but she’s in the dark about it until they an alternate to the Monster Manual« some of what she felt in Unimatrix Zero. that are “missing links” between man and film it. “I don’t know, because they won’t called the Creature Catalogue«. Now for Next time we’ll preview the final episodes beast. The only hope in stopping them is tell me. I keep trying to get information the important thingàThey brought it out of Voyager, which will culminate in May Special Unit 2, especially its brash out of them, and they won’t tell me. But I ten days BEFORE the WotC book. on UPN with special shows on Tuesday, hotshot Detective Nick O’Malley think there’s something big going to Comments from WotC? Cool, I like May 22nd and the series finale on May (Michael Landes - Lois & Clark’s happen. I just don’t know what.” . There are now more 23rd. original Jimmy Olsen), a vociferous Link- Andromeda continues to be the highest non-WotC d20 products than WotC. I On the subject of the next Star Trek hater, and his new partner Kate Benson rated syndicated hour drama and will think the system is going to bring about a series, the pilot movie has supposedly (Alexondra Lee), who has had a sixth have these episodes to finish of the Latest new era in cooperation between game been written but (yet again) TLPAWS has sense about Links since childhood.” Also batch of new episodes: The Mathematics companies that will result in gamers left things uncertain as to when it would starring is Richard Grant as Captain of Tears has Andromeda encountering receiving higher quality products, and start production. Other rumors are that Richard Page and Danny Woodburn as her damaged sister ship, the Pax Magel- being able to try other games without Paramount is hesitant to run it on UPN, Carl, a gnome-like Link and compulsive lanic, and leads the crew of the Androm- learning new systems. considering the networks uncertain petty thief who is a constant thorn in eda Ascendant on an eerie mission. In Next issue I’ll discuss some of the future. In any case, it is highly likely that Nick’s side. Among the Links they have Music From a Distant Drum an amnesiac companies involved and their products. the 2001/2002 season will be the first to combat are Gargoyles who are looking Tyr crashes and takes refuge on a world May all your skill checks be 20s since the start of The Next Generation in for humans to feed their incubating where humans are enslaved by Bob LaPierre 1987 without any new first run Star Trek babies; Thropes, sharp, yuppie-types by Nietzscheans - the same Nietzscheans (If you have a gaming related product you on the air. day who turn werewolf by night; a who murdered his family years earlier. would like us to review please send it to However, the 2001 fall season will see Merman, who sucks the souls out of Forced Perspective sees Dylan captured us at ConNotations, PO Box 62613, the debut of Star Trek: The Next virgins; and a Japanese Samurai Mummy. and put on trial for a crime he’s accused Phoenix, AZ 85082 - if using FedEx or Generation on The National Network Over on The WB, Buffy and Angel are of committing three hundred years UPS please contact us for the address to (formerly known as the Nashville moving along, keeping their fans on the earlier. use) Network). TNN has acquired the repeat edge of their seats. On Buffy, we’ve seen According to co-writer Joe cable rights for all three recent Star Trek the sudden departure of Riley and Spike’s Reinkemeyer: “We find out something growing infatuation with the Slayer. With about Dylan’s backstory, which suggests the arrival of The Council, more people ( cont’d on page 13 ) Page 12 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 Sky, the shows do have more character Scorpion and The Secret Adventures of SF Tube Talk (cont’d from page 12 ) Pro Notes (cont’d from page 3 ) moments and the final episode did take Jules Verne. Black Scorpion has had a into account that it was likely the last very negative reaction from most fans Fiona Kelleghan is happy to report that that he is less than the Boy Scout that he episode. while the response to Jules Verne has “There are TWO pictures of me in the appears to be. It’s a really nice episode In other syndicated news, Earth: Final been much better. However, the ratings current Locus from the World Fantasy because the character is forced to confront Conflict, Beastmaster and The Lost for both shows dropped around 20% from Con.” A book she edited, Magill’s a little darker choice than happens in World have each been given orders for their debut to the second week while Choice: 100 Masters of Mystery and some of our episodes.” In Harper 2.0, A another season next fall. Sheena is doing Farscape rose 25%. In fact, the daily Detective Fiction, (Salem Pr., 2001), will fugitive Perseid entrusts Harper with a well and is likely to return as well. repeats of Babylon 5 have been doing as be available in the spring. “I hope. I have Ratings for Queen of Swords and The good or better than some of the other other publications but I don’t think any of Immortal have not been very strong and SciFi first run shows. Babylon 5 creator ‘em have appeared yet.” their fates are much more uncertain. J. Michael Straczynski has been hinting Daryl F. Mallett is pleased to report Over on Cable, SciFi’s broadcast of the that he may be involved with producing that Pilgrims and Pioneers: The History six hour Dune mini-series was their something related to Babylon 5 for the and Speeches of the Science Fiction highest rated programming ever, almost SciFi Channel, with an announcement Research Association Award Winners, co- doubling their previous highest rating. edited with Hal W. Hall (SFRA Press, Writer/Director John Harrison is busy 2000), has finally gone to press and will working on the script for a follow-up be shipped on January 26. Wail!, by Beat miniseries, covering parts of the next two writer Brio Burgess (Jacob’s Ladder novels. A DVD release with extra Books, 2001) and Sherlock Holmes: The footage of the miniseries is scheduled for Great Detective in Paperback, by Gary a March release. Lovisi (Gryphon Publications, 2001), Lexa Doig as Andromeda In January, SciFi debuted new episodes both edited by Mallett, have been turned © Tribune Entertainment and new series after several months in. Mallett and fellow Arizona writer hiatus. Farscape finished off it’s second Adam Niswander are working on two secret that makes Andromeda the target season with a fast moving set of episodes scripts for a new television series being of an interstellar bounty hunter. Harper resulting in a pretty nasty cliffhanger pitched to Fox, and he is working as a co- ends up with the knowledge of the with Aeryn Sun apparently dead and both producer/co-screenwriter/co-author on a universe downloaded into his brain, Crichton and Moya in pretty bad shape. film called First Rose of Spring with Jules Verne Cast becoming a complete mess. Ending this The third season is scheduled to start in fellow SCAdian & writer Sheryl © SciFI batch of new episodes will be Star mid-March, which will be a tough six Flournoy, in which he will also play the Crossed, guest starring Michael Shanks weeks for Farscape fans to wait to see role of Zar the Wizard/Narrator. Louise Marley is “making a round of (Stargate SG-1) as the avatar of another what happens. First Wave kicked off its expected very soon at press time. In an ship that Andromeda falls in love with, third season on Mondays with Traci appearances at bookstores with William interview, SciFi’s Programming Execu- Wilde Zeitler, virtuoso of the glass only to be betrayed. Lords joining in the fight against the tive Bonnie Hammer confirmed that they Xena has some different episodes aliens, breathing some life into the series. harmonica, and we are recording a CD in had been talking about possible Babylon January of music for glass harmonica and coming up during sweeps, including the Lexx continued the crew’s adventures 5 movies with Straczynski and are likely last Xena clip show. The God You Know on Fire and Water, seeing return appear- voice, all composed by William. He was to be picking up the produced episodes of my consultant and invaluable resource for features Ares (Kevin Smith) and ances by Mantrid and Lyekka. February Crusade to air on the channel. Aprhodite (Alexandra Tydings) and will close out the 13 episode third series the novel, The Glass Harmonica, which Shows being pitched to stations at the came out at the end of September. supposedly guest stars Alexis Arquette as of Lexx. In Battle, the Lexx crew fight a annual NATPE convention in late Caligula. It also deals with Aphrodite gondola war with Prince and his minions, Susan R. Matthews reports: “I went to January include Mutant X from Tribune Orycon in November and had an abso- losing her powers (and you know she’ll only to have Xev get stranded in the and Marvel about genetically engineered not be happy about that). The next desert on Fire. In Girltown, Stan meets lutely lovely time. What a nice conven- humans with special powers (which isn’t tion! I’ll be at Rustycon in January and episode, You Are There, guest stars up with the Queen, who looks like old foe based on the recent Marvel comic of the Hercules Michael Hurst in an homage Gigerotta, and Xev and Kai contend with at VCon in April; I’ll be going to the same name), Starhunter, starring local anime convention, Sakuracon, in to the CBS news show “You Are There”, Michael Pare as an intergalactic bounty where historical figures are interviewed April as well, but as a fan, not as a pro hunter on a ship named Tulip, Tracker guest =). I turned in the manuscript for while they are making history. The starring Adrian Paul as an Alien bounty show will supposedly follow Xena as she my sixth novel, Angel of Destruction,” in hunter on Earth, tracking down escaped November, and am now working on the works to restore Ares’ and Aphrodite’s alien criminals, Colesseum starring powers. Things get more serious in editorial revisions received from Laura Andrew Dice Clay as a Bronx boxing Anne Gilman at Roc. We may change “Path of Vengeance” where the Amazons promoter who gets transported back to capture Xena’s daughter, Eve, and put the title to Malcontent. This is a stand- ancient Rome via a magical amulet where alone novel set within the Koscuisko her on trial for her crimes as Livia. As a he ends up as the booker for the result of the trial or something, “To universe, but featuring characters who Colesseum, and a weekly movie series have been secondary in the Koscuisko Helicon and Back” looks to be an episode from Full Moon hosted by William long battle sequence featuring lots and novels themselves, to wit: Garol Vogel Shatner called William Shatner’s Full (and, to a lesser extent, Jils Ivers), and lots of Amazons, sort of “Xena tries to Moon Fright Show. save Private Ryan”. Rounding out the takes place between the action of Prisoner latest batch of new episodes will be “Send of Conscience and Hour of Judgment.” in the Clones” where a present-day James A. Moore of Werewolf: The scientist played by Claire “Alti” Apocalypse fame has a book called Stansfield manages to clone and resurrect Xev from Lexx Fireworks due out in April or May. Xena and Gabrielle. It’s rumored that the ©SciFi Minnesota writer Lyda Morehouse’s episode may playfully satirize the online debut science fiction novel, Archangel Protocol is being released by Roc on May Xena fan community. In the last batch of some gay seamstress dudes, inciting them new episodes in May will be a flashback 8, 2001. Lyda has also agreed to be a to revolt. However, in The Beach, Stan preliminary judge for the paranormal/ episode with Joxer, another musical and Kai fall from their moth to Water and episode and a trip to Japan for Xena and time travel/fantasy entries for The Third both die, leading to Stan meeting up with Annual Merritt Contest (Cleopatra 2525 will be changing over www.sara.com/meritt>), sponsored by and Water” where Stanley is judged. In The San Antonio Romance Authors. The to hour long episodes in February, now the season finale, “Heaven and Hell”, we that Jack of All Trades is over. Accord- contest deadline is February 1, 2001. find out the true nature of the two planets. Winners will be announced at The ing to Jennifer Sky at a recent conven- SciFi will also be showing the first four tion, there were only six hour long Merritt Conference in San Antonio on Lexx TV movies on Saturday, Feb 17th April 7, 2001. For more information, see episodes produced and they look to all be from noon to 8 pm ET/PT. airing through February. According to © Sherlock Debuting on Friday nights were Black (Cont’d on page 14 ) Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 13 Pro Notes (cont’d from page 13 ) released yet) is tentatively slated for late Snake ‘N’ Bacon’s Cartoon Cabaret her website at . Her story, working on a fantasy sequel to the Anonymous Rex: A Detective Story HarperCollins, 128 pp., $13.00 “Twelve Traditions” (SF AGE, May graphic novel Among Green Leaves. He by Eric Garcia 1999), is in its final year of eligibility for also reports that The 4th Labyrinth of Vivard Books, Trade PB: $11.95 This DC Comics writer has an under- The John W. Campbell Award. Jareth Fantasy Annual Fantasy Masquer- ground side, both in his writing and art. Kiwi writer Till Noever has sold a ade Ball took place on January 12, 2001 Anonymous Rex is one of those books We have an entire alternate universe full novel called Keaen and “more info will in Los Angeles, CA and featured the band that sounds stupid on the surface, but of comic book formatted stories and be sent when it cometh my way.” Civilization. “Lords and ladies danced once you get into it, it’s quite enjoyable characters. Most of these characters Artist Martina Pilcerova is busy under fey enchantment and reality faded and worth the read. The star of the book aren’t super, though. Instead, we get helping plan Istrocon 2001, “an annual into the night. Fantasy and imagination is Vincent Rubio, a down on his luck ‘Cousin Grampa’, ‘Pablo Picasso - His convention taking place in Bratislava. It gained precious breath as faerie wings private eye in Los Angeles who just Amazing Life’, ‘Dick Crazy’, or the team is attended by approximately 700 people and dark wanderers stepped through the happens to be a Velociraptor disguised as of a snake and a talking piece of bacon. from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, crowds, joining the revels, losing them- a human. It seems that dinosaurs didn’t Some are super, like ’19th Century Austria, Hungary and Poland. Slovak selves within the ambiance of the Goblin die out, but got smaller and now co-exist Hercules’ or ‘The Mannister.’ Mixed in Television and many magazine editors Court. Eyes wandered across sculpted with humanity wearing guises to make with the panels are parody comic book are present to conduct interviews and displays and fantastic imagery in the them appear human. The tone of the covers. Not for kiddies, but just right for write articles. Our Istrocon 2000 guests darkened halls, tinged with velvet. novel is the usual hard boiled private eye the absurdist rebel in all of us adults. - were writer Mike Resnick and actor Ted Wandering up the Goblin’s tower, a novel, with Rubio always getting beat up Michael Griffin Raimi (Joxer of Xena fame-thank you, secret faerie market was found. Climbing while slowly making progress on the Daryl for helping us get Ted here!). This higher, the tower’s peak appeared, where case. Abduction year’s invited writer guest is fantasy Sypher’s guardian waited with fiery Vincent Rubio is down on his luck after by Robin Cook writer Robert Holdstock from England, minions blazing through the realm and and the media guest is as yet unan- watching over the doorway to the If you’re lucky, no one knows that you nounced.” Goblin’s Court. Inside the main cham- read science fiction; otherwise someone Melissa Shaw has “great news—the bers, while the goblin bartenders served may suggest that you read Abduction by French translation of my short story, fey drinks, the floor was awash with Robin Cook. Dr. Cook (a real MD) has “The Sea Hag” (originally published in lights and projections. Haunting music written a carload of mainstream medical Silver Birch, Blood Moon) has just come floated throughout the castle…” It was a thrillers and two science fiction novels. out in a French anthology called Il Etait great event, as usual, and more informa- His first foray into SF, Invasion, was so- Une Fee (It Was a Fairy), from Oxymore tion can be found at ).” www.sypher.net/loj>. Abduction.. Her website can be seen at . “Cheerfully willing to celebrate a dual An oceanic exploration company is Will Shetterly says, “My latest novel, New Year, I’m now willing to agree that drilling into a seamount along the mid- just released at the end of December is the new century [began] on Monday Atlantic ridge when a volcanic eruption Voyage of the Basset #4: Thor’s Ham- [January 1, 2001]. I’ve seen 92 years of occurs; a deepsea exploration ship with the old one, and I feel that it has been the mysterious death of his partner, and crew and 2 divers are lost. Well, not mer.” takes on a case investigating a nightclub Artist Virgil Simpelo is currently remarkably generous to me. I’m still really. They’re really captured by feeling well, able to live alone, enjoying arson. He discover leads that take him to humans residing in the Mohorovic working on the elfin fantasy series Among New York and deeper into the biggest Green Leaves” and the animation of the the support of good friends and loving discontinuity beneath the sea in the world relatives, working with due deliberation case of his life, assuming he lives through of Interterra. It seems that this is the series. Virgil also built a small exhibit of it. As he gets deeper into the case, Rubio works based upon the fantasy series on a new story, and looking hopefully second time that humans evolved; they forward to the incoming century. I no finds that things aren’t as they seem originally showed up about a half billion which was shown at The Labyrinth of when he learns the truth about a mur- Jareth Masquerade and will appear at The longer attend many conventions, but I years ago. The first humans are peaceful, look forward to our annual SF lectureship dered wealthy dino who was engaging in loving, civilized, technologically ad- Alternative Press Expo. interspecies sex, a dino taboo. Joan Slonczewski reports: “My main at Eastern New Mexico University here in vanced - in contrast to us primitive Homo Portales on March 2. Our guests this year We get a good look at the secret Saps. Along the way, there are a couple news this year is my new book, Brain dinosaur society, how they have infil- Plague, which came out to stunning are to be Scott Edelmann, Kristine murders, an escape, and a semi-surprise Kathryn Rusch and Dean Wesley trated human society, and how they keep ending. In other words, this is Jules reviews—links here: .” fleshed out characters that really add to Brian Stableford says, “Things have Spider Island, Volume 4 of my collected knowledge of geology is a detriment. shorter fiction, is coming from Haffner the atmosphere. There’s a good deal of Cook makes such bloopers as stating that been quiet since the last update. Sarob humor and a good detective yarn all Press will do Knightshade, a translation Press, perhaps in time for the lecture- there are no fossils of the Interterrans ship.” rolled up into a fun read. - Lee because they developed on the only of a Paul Feval novella, some time in the Whiteside Summer of 2001. I think The Cassandra Sara T Wrench, the author of The continent, which was completely sub- Duke of Sumava (Baen Books,1997), sumed about 400,000 years ago. This Complex is now due from Tor in March The Death Prayer and Pawns of Chaos by “Brian Craig” “now unfortunately out of print,” has conveniently ignores the Canadian shield, “lots of copies to sell at conventions. I by David Bowker the lowest strata of the Grand Canyon, should be out from Games Workshop Borealis-White Wolf, 220 pp., $11.99 sometime in between the two. Sean Alan plan to be at Norwescon and Westercon and rocks in Greenland which are in the Wallace’s Cosmos Books should be in 2001. I’m still trying to find a billion plus date range. Ooops. publisher for my second novel, The Wild At first I was afraid this was a horror And those Interterrans - it’s been a long making some texts available on a POD novel, but I was relieved to discover it’s a basis, but I’ve no hard information yet as Boar’s Legacy (another historical fantasy time since I’ve read about such boring, set in Sumava), and am currently writing fine detective story instead. Like all one-dimensional characters! I spent over to which ones and when. Ben Jeapes detective novels, this one is a quick read. hopes to put out Swan Songs (an omnibus a humorous fantasy and a space opera.” half the book waiting for the mask to slip! That’s it for now. If I’ve missed Unlike most such, it crosses genres into Why can’t advanced civilizations have of the “Hooded Swan” novels) sometime the supernatural thriller. The main in the summer.” anybody, I apologize for the oversight. some variety? The abducted humans Please pass this along to your pro characters are a male-female pair of didn’t fare much better. We figure out by Shawn Strider, while finishing up his British detectives. They’re on the trail of work on Among Green Leaves and the colleagues (artists, writers, actors, etc.) the second chapter that the 2 divers are and have them let us know what we’re grisly murders done by supernatural going to be the bad guys - they had dark cyberpunk series Dragon’s Edge, is forces. The villain: a new-age con man also setting up a collection of writings to doing so we can publicize it! Hope you all abusive fathers, so naturally they are had a great holiday season and a Happy who’s abusing Hawaiian Kahuna magic. violent, heavy drinkers, bigoted, etc...The be released cooperatively through Sypher This book could easily have been con- Studios and Barnes & Noble. The New Year and New Millennium! female oceanographer is brilliant, highly verted into an X-Files TV episode, but attractive, civilized - a boring copy of a softcover collection will feature over a it’s better than that. It’s a well-written, dozen published and unpublished stories, classic pulp heroine. The company spiritually interesting story, whether you president is almost as boring. poems and artwork by Adam Gastelum. like either genre it covers. - Michael The collection (the title will not be Griffin ( Cont’d on page 15 ) Page 14 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 into. We may have to coin a new genre wants him to save his people, the talking In Our Book ( Cont’d from page 14 ) Circle at Center just for Christopher Moore. It’s sort of a fruitbat, and the camaraderie he enjoys In other words, if you want to read Douglas Niles cross between a murder mystery and with the islanders during the nightly something by Robin Cook, pick up a used Ace Fantasy 400 pp $13.00 fantasy with a little humor thrown in for drink circle. Not to mention the prospect copy of Toxin, Vector, or one of his other good measure. of the blond Sky Priestess deciding to use medical novels. - C.F. Yankovich The first time I encountered Douglas Our “hero” (I use the term loosely), him for the “choosing”. Niles’ work was when I was given his Tucker Case, is a hopeless drunk and Mr. Moore is very good at what he does Inside The Worlds Of “Circle of Light” series as a gift. I am womanizer who crashed his employer’s (whatever this is…) and I enjoyed this Star Wars Episode I pleased to say reading this book returned pink plane during a mid-air sex romp. story very much. The author is skilled at By Kristen Lund me to those times. His world starts as one His best friend helps him find a new job story development. Character develop- DK Publishing, 46 pps, $19.95 that has already defeated chaos once and after his licence is pulled and he believes ment was adequate for the story (we has taken pains to insure that it doesn’t Mary Jean Cosmetics is out to get him for didn’t need to know what their childhood This large format book shows us the arise again. The changing roles and destroying the plane. The new job is on a was like). The humor wasn’t laugh-out- inside story of many of the locations of conversion from pacifism to war was really, really remote island in Micronesia. loud as Robert Asprin does for me, but it Star Wars Episode I including Naboo, logical and well thought out. Everybody It’s so remote, it doesn’t even belong to was definitely worth a bunch of smirks. Tatooine, Anakin’s hovel, Galactic senate knows that nothing is forever (except anyone. He’s supposed to fly medical The most amazing thing about this story and much more. The team was given maybe taxes) so it should come as no supplies for a missionary - in a Lear! is how Mr. Moore combines such access to the original blueprints, scale shock that chaos arises again. I thought One mishap after another keep Tuck characters as the cross-dressing Filipino, drawings and models at Skywalker the book was well written, if a little from reaching the island and he finally his fruitbat, the cannibal, a dead WWII Ranch. The book is suggested for ages 10 predictable, and I will seek out the other becomes so desperate (he’s afraid they’ll pilot, a mad doctor and a crazed blond and up but it will be a welcome addition volumes in the series. . - Bob LaPierre hire someone else if he’s late) that he sex goddess and makes it work! Take a to the avid Star Wars fan who wants more hires a boat and guide to take the last leg. break from SF and fantasy and dip into information and detail than the films The Devil’s Workshop The boat is a skiff and the guide is a this one. - Catherine Book provide. The fold out diagram of the Mos Stephen J. Cannell Filipino cross-dresser who keeps a talking Espa Arena is truly stupendous, as is the Harper, 421 pp, $6.99 fruitbat as a companion. Of course, they Singer From The Sea overview of the Grass Plains Battle and get blown off route by a tropical storm By Sheri Tepper Otha Gungun, the glowing bubbles of the The Devil’s Workshop is a biological and then picked up and nursed back to Avon EOS, 526 pp $6.99 underwater city. These views include warfare thriller, rather than traditional health by the Shark People. Coincidently, information on areas not seen in the film Science Fiction. the Shark People know all about the good A fascinating premise – that a world as well as an overview of some that In The Devil’s Workshop, a section of doctor whom they call the Sorcerer. The has a soul. To get to this premise, Ms makes the relationship of the movie the Army theoretically concerned with Sorcerer’s main job is announcing the Tepper takes us on a journey of discovery scenes more easily understood. This is a defending against bio-terrorism is arrival of the Sky Priestess who brings through the experiences and awakening welcome addition to the fine Star Wars actually developing biological weapons in the islanders much good cargo. It seems realizations of a young noblewoman, guides from DK. - Stephanie Bannon secret, and against the law of the land. the islanders are a cargo cult. They Genevieve. Stacy Richardson, in process of taking worship the WWII pilot, Vincent, who Genevieve lives on a very isolated, poor Colony Fleet her doctorate in microbiology, is in- saved them from the Japanese and world, Haven, that is ruled utterly by a by Susan R. Matthews formed that her husband has committed brought cool stuff like coffee and sugar. single man who enjoys, apparently, an HarperCollins, $6.50 suicide. However, she had spoken to him The plane was called the Sky Priestess. unnaturally long life. On the other hand, just before the reputed event, and finds Tucker is eventually taken in by the Haven, seems to be quite deadly for “She would go to Allmeet and tell the that it is a cover up for murder. Just doctor and his lovely wife and then held noblewomen in their late 20’s who have Jneers there that they were mistaken before his death, he had E-mailed her in seclusion until required to fly the just had a baby. Genevieve, like her about Mechs and resources. She owed it information about the secret research plane. His flights seem to coincide with mother, has true visions. Some of her to the DeeCee to do that much at least. It which she discovers after her return the Sky Priestess’ appearances to the “dreams” are of the sea, which she has would not be a popular message, but they home. Her refusal to accept the suicide as natives and they only go to Japan and never seen and of a great voice calling to would have to believe it coming from her- fact costs her doctorate through funding back. His flights also seem to coincide her. they knew she was as good a Jneer as the pressure on the university. She sets out to with one of the villagers being “chosen” Genevieve is something special, bred to next, Comparisons notwithstanding. expose the illegal research. by the Sky Priestess. At first Tucker is a special purpose. She’s not the only one; Didn’t they? Meanwhile, Chris Cunningham, a content with his lot, he’s healing up she’s just the one whose mother lived Or would they discount her words as decorated war hero, has lost his daughter long enough to complete her training. evidence rather of her revealed Mech to congenital abnormalities caused by his She is not what the men expect. And, she basic nature, and not evidence of having Gulf War exposure to biological weapons. is determined to achieve this purpose, no been mistaken all these years at all? He has hit the skids, becoming an matter the cost; because the price is the The colony was going to need flexible alcoholic hobo. In Vanishing Lake, whole world. people. The colony could not afford to be another biological experiment causes the Ms Tepper creates some memorable directed by people who would rather deny death of a hobo pal. and the destruction of characters and some very interesting a woman her birthright than acknowledge an entire area, either by the escaped mysteries. All of the mysteries and that wrong had been done. Hilbrane felt a mosquito vector, or the efforts to contain questions have a single answer. Like any sickening sense of certainty that the it. The two link up to expose the group. good mystery writer, Ms Tepper give us Jneers at Allmeet would do just that, While still another plot develops. tiny hints along the way but we cannot however, and reject solid testimony as A fanatical white supremist preacher see the answer any more than can contrary to their preconceptions. Hadn’t decides to use the bio-toxins to target Genevieve or her love, Aufors. We are led she watched it happen, and to her, before people of Jewish or black extraction. If he to the conclusion just as Genevieve is; her very eyes?” can’t use the bio-toxin in his plan, he will perhaps, with divine guidance. It’s just And so our heroine grows up. Susan R. blow up a toxic waste train in Washing- nicely after his adventures, he has plenty not the Divine that you might expect. Matthews has given us a very good book ton, DC. to eat and the lovely wife is screwing his Ms Tepper may be known to some as a in Colony Fleet. it is a well crafted story Add in another subplot, nicely inte- brains out. The down side is that he rather militant feminist author. It is true that grabbed my attention and held it to grated, with a cocaine snuffing movie doesn’t know what happened to his guide that many of her stories seem strongly the very surprising end. Her character producer and you have an entertaining (who’s living with the villagers’ token anti-male; I see them as strongly pro- development is excellent and the interper- page turner that will make a splendid cannibal) and the lovely wife seems to female. Her women become empowered sonal conflict between characters makes action flick or TV movie. have multiple personalities: perfect to take control of their lives and by doing you want to hiss at the antagonists. Though not Sci-fi, it’s worth a read. - housewife and nurse and erotic, sexy, so, correct injustices perpetrated by men, I would strongly recommend this book. Pam Allan bloodthirsty goddess. often to their relief. Therefore, I reluc- - William B. Whitmore The story progresses quickly and tantly caution you, gentle readers, this is hilariously through Tucker’s growing a story for women. – Catherine Book Island of the Sequined Love Nun realization that he has to take responsibil- By Christopher Moore ity; something he’s never been very good Avon Books, Inc., 322 pp, $13.00 at. ‘Course he did get some nudges along the way from the Vincent apparition who I’m not sure what genre this book falls ( cont’d on page 16 ) Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 15 Hunted CENTRAL ARIZONA SPECULA- In Our Book (cont’d from page 15) James Alan Gardner Club TIVE FICTION SOCIETY, INC. Such a Pretty Face Eos, 419 pp, $6.99 (CASFS) The non-profit corporation that Ed. Lee Martindale puts on CopperCon conventions, Meisha Merlin Publishing, 312 pp, Hunted is a quirky, funny, and action- Listings SmurfCons, HexaCons, occasional $16.00 packed space opera perfect for a lazy fall regional cons, and publishes Con- day [or winter] . (EDITOR’S NOTE: Please check your club listing Notations. Best described as SF/F Being a plus-sized individual, I was Edward York, son of Admiral for errors. Please send corrections and updates to the generalists with a strong bent towards curious about what Lee had in store for us Alexander York, was illegally gene editor in writing or via email) literary SF/F. Guests welcome - meets at with this book. I was expecting more tweaked along with his twin sister, 8pm on the last Friday of each month in comic relief characterization and empty Samantha. Unfortunately, they didn’t ADRIAN EMPIRE A medieval and January thru September and the second stories. I found realistic heroes and give him the brains of his father or sister. renaissance recreationist club. Sword- Friday in October, November and thoughtful stories. One of the most out- As he grew up, he was always under the fighting, arts, banquets, masquerades, December at JB’s Restaurant, 2560 W. standing was also one of the smallest, aegis of his sister, acting as her body- dances. meets every Wednesday night Indian School in Phoenix, AZ. Write PO “Eleven to Seven.” The author list reads guard. As an Outward Fleet Explorer, he from 7-10pm at Encanto Park. All are Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082-2613 or like a who’s who of current SF/Fantasy. accompanies her to the troubled planet welcome. Free. For details, call call Stephanie L. Bannon (602)973-2341 And I haven’t found a clunker in the Troyen, the home of the Mandasar. (602)582-6990. for information. Web www.casfs.org book. Not all of the characters are likable, Sam and the Alien queen, {who was nor are they all on the side of right, but Edward’s “consort”] are killed. Edward is ARERIAL MIRAGE JUGGLING THE DARK ONES (Dark-wunz) n. 1) they are all well thought-out and despite exiled to Troyen’s moon for twenty years, CLUB International Juggling Associa- An organization formed for the expres- their size quite often are larger than life. until escalating violence forces evacua- tion affiliate club meets 7-10pm Wednes- sion and exploration of various cultural The book is not for everyone but if you tion. On the way home, the entire crew of day evenings at Encanto Park. No dues, themes including, but not limited to, the have ever felt even the slightest bit the starship is wiped out as bad guys. The everyone welcome. All levels skill Dark Ages and the Renaissance through discriminated against, you will find ship still makes it to its destination, but exchange in many areas of object ma- forms of art including, but not limited to, people here who understand and offer Edward finds himself being hunted as the nipulation. Devils’ Club meets Fridays painting, drawing, writing, photography, solace.. - Bob LaPierre only witness. Fellow explorers help him 5pm north of the Hayden Library on the spoken word, and acts of characterization. flee the ship, and he finds that his ASU campus. For more info, call (602) 2) a member of this organization. 3) Death of the Dragon consort-ship gains the devotion of the ex- 585-7623, or write 2326 E. Electra Lane, Information available at (602) 978-9314. Ed Greenwood & Troy Denning patriot Manama on the planet. Phoenix, AZ 85024. Wizards of the Coast, 376 pp, $21.95 This starts him on a journey into his DAYSTAR HOLT Arizona’s first and past, and his future, both fraught with ARIZONA LANBASHERS LEAGUE longest-running Elfquest fan club. For those of you who don’t know, this more twists than the double helix that A collaboration of computer gaming Daystar meets to talk about EQ and book is set in the “Forgotten Realms.” appears to rule the present. Fortunately, enthusiasts, the Arizona LANbashers related stuff, develop characters, publish The dragon is King Azoun IV of Cormyr. he has the greatest Explorer, Admiral League throws quarterly LANparty stories in our ‘zine Playelf and create an This novel deals with the fulfillment of Festina Ramos, aiding him. Together, events. Between parties, support is given annual calendar. Other common interests prophecy and the signs of true leadership. they enter a future that requires them to to local groups who wish to advertise include music, bellydance, camping and The foreshadowing and the title kind of unravel a secret conspiracy that will their own gatherings. We have no set of course, SF. Membership is free (18 or give away the fact the King Azoun dies. either bury the hopes of Mankind and the genre of games and play anything from over) and is attained by group vote after But this novel is more about the strength Mandasar, or lead them out of the strategy games to first-person shooters to you attend two meetings or holt-related of his character and that he is truly the wilderness. driving/flying simulations. No annual get-togethers. Meetings are usually the epitome of what it means to be a King. Did I say the book was a page turner membership is required and admission to first Saturday of each month; for more The good of the kingdom comes before that can keep you enjoyably occupied for an event ranges from $5-$15. See our info, call Tom or Janice at (602) 581- the safety and desires of the king. The hours. I found a desire to read more of webpage for current events. Email: 2258. They have a website up at http:// court intrigues were well-written and by this author’s work. I think you will too.. [email protected] Web: http:/ members.home.net/jeanderson/ having an outsider present, it allows Pam Allan www.gibbed.com/all VoiceMail: 602- daystarholt.html things to be explained for those of us who 306-9339 don’t intuitively know about courtly Lord Of The Fire Lands DESERT LURKERS Tucson based matters. It was enjoyable, especially so for Dave Duncan THE AWAY TEAM: The Away Team, Babylon 5 fan club. Meets and communi- people familiar with Ed Greenwood’s Eos, 456 pp, $6.99 is a general sci-fi appreciation group that cates via listserver over the Internet. Forgotten Realms. I recommend this for meets once a month for discussion of Anyone with e-mail access can subscribe all gamers who want to see how a “good” Lord Of The Fire Lands is the second various sci-fi news regarding several to the Desert Lurkers by sending e-mail handles adversity.. - Bob LaPierre volume of The Kings Blades series. The mediums to include: television, movies, to [email protected] and putting first book is The Gilded Chain. The books video, books, comics, magazines, collect- “subscribe” (minus the quotation marks) Titan stand alone. ing, and so forth. The meetings are in the subject line. Interested people can Stephen Baxter Raider and Wasp are students at comprised of news, review and comment, contact Alexander Goodrum at E-mail HarperPrism $23.00 Ironhall, They are graduating as some of BBS/computer news and help, meeting address: [email protected] the finest swordsmen in the realm. A new members, video presentations, Can NASA launch a successful manned Kings Blade is forever bound, [till death games, and socializing fun! Food and EARTHLINK SCI-FI CLUB SF mission to Saturn’s moon Titan? Using does them part] to bodyguard the person drinks are provided, via a $3 munchie fee generalists with some focus on comics Skylab and Shuttle technology? The they are sworn to defend. When it is (per meeting) to compensate the host. and environmental issues. Meets at heroes of this book believe they can and revealed that Raider is actually Radgar, (No other fees are involved.) The elec- various conventions and occasions. are willing to bet their lives on it. the heir apparent to the Fire Lands, Wasp tronic home of the Away Team, is the Publishes a quarterly newsletter called Opposed by entrench bureaucrats, rogue becomes bound to him through choice. Lightspeed Space Station BBS at (520) Cosmic Wavelengths. For information air force officers, and a cost cutting They both are plunged into treachery and 325-6674.... Member ages for the group contact them at 8508 E. San Lorenzo, Congress, they still manage to launch. intrigue. To survive, Radgar must return range from 13-40-something with both Scottsdale, AZ 85258, or call Nohl Rosen But will they make it to Titan? Read the to the Fire Lands, gain the ruling of this male and female members. Other activi- at (602) 991-8847. book to find its surprising ending. land once ruled by his assassinated father ties include null-modem link gamefests, I found this book to be unevenly and punish the destroyers of his family. group theater movie viewings, convention THE EMPIRE OF CHIVALRY AND written. Its slow beginning was a slog. Its They both must face not only political trips and more. Have sci-fi fun in a STEEL, INC. The Empire of Chivalry high points are interspersed with long and military opposition, but must banish relaxed, low-structure environment. NO and Steel specializes in the general sections of sociological BS. If I had not a firedrake before it cremates the land. RUBBER EARS ALLOWED!! For recreation of the culture of the Middle agreed to review this book, I never would This is a page turner, with lots of twists questions, you can call the BBS, or write Ages including all of the Art Forms, have finished it as a pleasure read. It’s and turns, wit and character in a break- to: LSS c/o R. Martin; 2522 N. Sparkman Events (Feasts, Tournaments, Ceremonies apocalyptic view of the future is depress- neck speed adventure. I couldn’t put it Blvd.; Tucson, AZ 85716 and Wars) and Combat Arts covering the ing and the story line fragmented. I do down. Recommended as a good read, but years of 800AD up to 1650AD and any not recommend this book. - William B. should have a printed BASFA Baja Arizona Science Fiction location within Europe or its explored Whitmore warning....Hazardous to bedtimes, and tv. Association, a non-profit organization. territories. For more information contact - Pam Allan Puts on TUS-CON Convention annually. ( Cont’d on page 18 ) Page 16 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 HexaCon 11 Arizona’s Largest Gaming Convention July 27-29, 2001 These games were played last year and CHESS currently are tentatively planned for AT THE hOLIDAY iNN SUNSPREE RESORT Double Bugout Hexacon 11: Kreigspeil BOARD GAMES Speed Chess Age of Renaissance Team Chess Air Baron CCG RPGA American Megafauna Legend of the 5 Rings Champions Axis & Allies Magic ThG Classic AD&D Scenarios Battle Cry by Avalon Hill Pokemon Ravenloft Scenarios Dawn Patrol Star Trek Graduation Day: Star Wars MISC: History of America BattleTech Insecta GURPS MECCG Sealed Deck Jump Into The Unknown Demo Car Wars The Great Dalmuti Junta Chez Geek Warzone Lords of the Sierra Madre Dino Hunt Rio Grande’s Lost Cities’ In Nomine PLUS Risk OGRE RSI Robo Rally - Tile Chess PAReX Settlers of Catan TOON (Phoenix Area Robotics eXperimenter) Silverton Zombie Hunt Anime Successors Consuite LARP Dealer’s Room Pokemon Miniatures Painting Contest Used Game Auction On Thursday, July 26, there will Location Information: be a special RPGA Event as well Contact Information: as other events and prizes available HexaCon 11 Holiday Inn SunSpree PO Box 62613 7601 E Indian Bend Rd only to those who preregister for Phoenix AZ 85082 Scottsdale, AZ the convention. Gaming starts at Phone/FAX (602)973-2341 (480) 991-2400 Email: [email protected] Room: $67 S/D/T/Q 10:00 AM on Friday, July 27 and Webpage: www.casfs.org Suite: $100 S/D/T/Q runs NON-STOP until We apologize for the inconvenience but the Sunday, July 29 at 3PM Game Director: Craig Hier SunSpree is a NO PET hotel. Used Game Auction: J.B. Talbott There will be a raffle for those who pre- Membership Rates: Miniatures Contest: Gus Talbott register with the convention and reserve a $20 until 06/25/2001 hotel room before 06/15/2001 $25 at the door Ads: Stephanie Bannon Our 4 winners will each get a choice from Ad Rate Info & Deadlines the following prizes: Dealer’s Room Info Back Cover: $125 GURPS Book autographed by Steve Jackson Inside Cover: $115 Free room night Cost: $50 per table: Dealer’s tables include Full Page: $100 $50 in coupons usable in the dealer’s room Half Page: $ 50 1 full membership and 1 dealer’s room only Two memberships to HexaCon 12 Quarter Page: $ 25 pass. Dealer’s room passes are upgradable for Two (2) Business Cards:$ 25 one half the current registration rate. Limit 2 If you have trouble making reservations, Special Request placement: $ 10 extra tables per dealer. Contact Michael Bauerlein at contact Stephanie at 602-973-2341 or Accepted submissions : Camera Ready, Word, .tif 480-325-7485 .gif .bmp Deadline: July 5, 2001 [email protected] Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 17 optional monthly newsletter is $5/year or http://www.pc.maricopa.edu/departments/ Phoenix, AZ 85082-3191, Voice Mail Club Listings ( Cont’d from page 17 ) $.50 per month. Call Tom Perry at (602) studentact/organizations/sface/ at (602) 864-0901, E-mail TARDIS- Bart Smith (Phoenix) (602)937-6995 or 996-2196 or write 3241 E. Altadena, [email protected] or visit http:// Leonard Bird (Tucson) (520)742-2432 Phoenix, AZ 85028. SHADOWKEEP BBS Intelligent conversa- www.primenet.com/~jgeorge/ tion, awesome graphics, stupendous door tardis.html INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD RAGE ACROSS THE SOUTHWEST games, unworldly filebank, RPG forums, OF JEDI KNIGHTS Members of the A Live Action Theatre Troupe based out QWK message system and online RPG BBS- TEKWAR FAN CLUB Sanctioned by Tatooine Base have revised the Interna- of the ASU campus in Tempe, AZ. It is moderated games! Our BBS is mainly RPG the series’ production companies and tional Brotherhood of Jedi Knights, a not- dedicated to the game Werewolf: The oriented and we offer many services to GMs the USA Network! It is THE informa- for-profit fan club dedicated to Star Wars. Apocalypse by White Wolf publishing. and players. No fees necessary for users who tion conduit between the fans and the Membership is $8.00 U.S. and/or $11.00 Contact Mike McLaughlin at (602)461- post intelligent messages! $5 in credits to series! Fan club membership will bring (Canada/foreign) and includes a member- 5842 or write 1730 W Emelita Place new users. Over 20 conferences and 10 you the following 1) subscription to the ship packet consisting of a one year #2025, Mesa AZ85202-3144 or email to doors to choose from! Shadowkeep BBS - info filled Tek Informer newsletter; 2) subscription to The New Jedi Times [email protected] PCBoard 15.2/M - US Robotics 28.8 official TekWar Fan Club membership (published 6 times a year), membership Modem. Phoenix, AZ (602)245-0919; card and kit. Membership is by rgular card, IBOJK charter & bylaws informa- RAW GAMES (Role-players & Connect at 2400-28800 mail only and the newsletter nad tion on Jedi studies and a free gift. Wargamers, Inc.) Role-players & materials will not be reproducd Checks should be made to either Patty Wargamers, Inc. is the Valley’s oldest THE SOCIETY FOR CREATIVE electronicaly. To join the action and Vance or Elizabeth Laignel. For further role-playing and wargaming club. ANACHRONISM The kingdom of initiate your annual membership, make information send a self-addressed, Currently meeting at Carrow’s Restaurant Atenveldt doth lie in the state of Arizona. check or moneyorder out for $12.50 to: stamped envelope to: The I.B.O.J.K.; P. at 7th Street & Monte Vista in Phoenix Within the fair kingdom can be found six Official TekWar Fan Club (Member- O. Box 5459; Glendale, AZ 85312-5459; every Sunday from 3pm-9pm (except Baronies: Atenveldt, Mons Tonitrus, Twin ship section), 2522 N Sparkman Blvd., or call either Patty or Lilly at (602) 843- during conventions and other special Moons, SunDragon, Tir Ysgithr and Ered Tucson AZ 85716-2417 8303. May the Force show you the way of events). Open to new members - call Sul. For more infor-maton on any of these or the Jedi! (602) 849-9515. for general information on thy past tomor- T.H.E.M. T.H.E.M. is ASU’s science rows thou mayest contact Mistress Myrddina fiction and fantasy club. Weekly INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION ROLE PLAYING GAMES CLUB o Dolwyddelan (Terry Schwartz) PO Box meetings are held in the Memorial COUNCIL Meets every 1st and 3rd (RPGC) The official gaming club of Az. 584, Sonoita AZ 85637 (520)455-5835 Union, with dates to be announced Saturday of the month. Meeting at the State University. Activities include: live- Email: [email protected] after the semester starts. For more Westridge Mall (75th Ave. and Thomas action roleplaying games, tabletop www.atenveldt.org information, contact Erik Wennstrom, Rd. Phoenix, AZ. The IFC is regimental gaming, conventions, parties, etc. email: [email protected] Phone: 480-968- (Using Ranks and structured simmialrly General meetings are open to the public THE SOUTHWEST COSTUMER’S 5257.To subscribe to our listserve, to ST) but has social events as well. and are held every Friday at 6pm in GUILD The Southwest Costumers Guild is send a message to them- Attends local Creation And Trek Produc- ASU’s Memorial Union. Dues are $5/ a loose organization of persons inter-ested in [email protected]. tion Cons, and ST Movie premiers. POC semester. For more info, contact Michael all facets of historical, cultural, science for IFC is A/Fleet Admiral John Nelson McLaughlin, 1730 W. Emelita #2025, fiction, fantasy, and humor cos-tume. TUCSON FAN ALLIANCE E-Mail (602) 934-3987 or by voice mail (602) Mesa, AZ 85202-3144, or call (602)464- Members are often seen on stage and behind Address is [email protected] or 409-7169 or c/o P.O. box 14370 Phoenix, 3144; [email protected] the scenes atmost local and regional Science [email protected]. AZ 85063-4370. E-Mail: Bnelson502 Fiction Convention masquerades.They meet @aol.com Membership Approx 35-50. SCIENCE FICTION CONTINUUM on the last Sun-day of each month at various Z-PHILES are the ariZona x-PHILES. The Bi-Monthly newsletter is Cactus Log. The Science Fiction Continuum: An mmbers’ homes in the greater phoenix area. We maintain a mailing list for news Independent Star Trek and Sci-Fi club in For details. Southwest Costumers Guild, PO and get-togethers of fans of the X-Files THE JEDI KNIGHTS Meetings are the Phoenix, AZ. The SFCOM is an active Box 39504, Phoenix, AZ 85609 or call living in Arizona. We get together in 3rd Sunday of each month. For more club that participates in Local Phoenix, Randall Whitlock at (602)995-7514, email: both the Phoenix and Tucson areas. To information call Carol Alves, Publicity, and Southwestern Star Trek and Sci-Fi [email protected] or Website: http:// subscribe, send an empty message to z- (760)244-9593 or write Jedi Knights, c/o conventions and movies. The SFCOM members.aol.com/souwesgld/guilg.html [email protected] Jim Lowerre, 12291 Meade Street, has three different divisions. The SFCOM Garden Grove, CA 92841-3629 itself, a free group where fun is the name STARBASE TUCSON Tucson Arizona UNITED FEDERATION OF of the game. The Deep Space SolarFlare based Star Trek club. For info call Geof PHOENIX A Phoenix area Star Trek LEPRECON, INC. One of the two (DSSF) an active member club in the Wood at (520) 746-1822 or write Starbase and general SciFi fan club. We are a Phoenix area corporations that put on International Federation of Treker’s Tucson ; 3314 E. Benson Hwy ; Tucson AZ social club that meets every two weeks yearly conventions. Best described as SF/ (IFT). This group is based on DS9 (a 85706. Email:[email protected] at various locations around the F generalists with a main thrust into SF/F space station). And the IKV Sto-Vo-Kor Phoenix area. The UFP has been art. Guests are welcome. The meetings (Independent Kilngon Vessel). A Klingon STONEHENGE BBS Enjoy over 60 online meeting for over 20 years of continu- are quarterly on the second Saturday of Bird of Prey, roming the desert looking games including TradeWars 2002, ous activity. Dues are $10/per year February, May, August & November for battle. Are the Fed’s too soft, looking StarFight, The Pit, Dirty Play, Usurper, prorated when you join; no restric- unless otherwise notified. August is the for combat, feel the call to glory. This is LORD, and Battle Grid (new, like tions. Membership includes member- annual meeting where board positions are the ship for you. Membership in the Battletech). Topical message boards, E- ship roster and monthly newsletter. determined. For more information, write SFCOM is free! To join DSSF or the Sto- Mail, and Network Echoes. 1000’s of files to Come to any two meetings at no PO Box 26665, Tempe, AZ 85285 ; call Vo-Kor a nominal fee for the national download: utilities, games, GIF pictures, & obligation. For information, write the Mike Willmoth at (480) 945-6890 or clubs involved and uniforms. For further more every day! Stop by and give us a try at UFP at PO Box 37224, Phoenix, AZ Email: [email protected] information contact President John Stonehenge BBS (602) 947-2223, FidoNet 85069, or call Jim Strait at (602) 242- Nelson at (602) 409-7169 or on the 1:114/120, 300-9600bps, V.32/V.42bis, 24 9203. Web page: http://www.U-F- THE PHOENIX FANTASY FILM internet at; [email protected] or hours a day. P.org or Email to [email protected] SOCIETY A Phoenix based club inte- check out our web site. http:// rested in the entire realm of SF, Fantasy www.thesfcom.com TARDIS TARDIS is a Phoenix-based UNITED WHOVIANS OF TUCSON and Horror film. PFFS has been in General SF/Fantasy Fan Club, specializing A well-informed and very active Dr. existence for 25 years, meeting every 6 SFACE (Speculative Fiction And in International media SF/Fantasy since Who club. $15 yearly membership weeks in member’s homes. Dues are $10 Computer Enthusiasts) Phoenix College’s 1983. TARDIS meets every two weeks at includes four issues of their fanzine - per year. Membership includes newslet- one and only connection to the worlds of different locations around the valley. TARDIS Time Lore - written by semi- ters, an annual film awards and various speculative fiction, including science Activities include watching videos, discus- pros and other dedicated fans. For outings. For information, contact PFFS, fiction, fantasy, and horor as well as table sions, parties, fund-raisers, auctions, games, more information, contact The United P.O. Box 34023, Phoenix, AZ 85067 or top, live action and internet gaming, camping trips and outings. We also main- Whovians of Tucson at P. O. Box call David Storck at (602) 274-7404, SFACE also serves as a guide through the tain an active presence at local conventions. 13541, Tucson, AZ 85732-3541. Also, e-mail: [email protected]. Internet - both teaching basic use and TARDIS publishes a monthly informative you can contact the president at utilizing as a source of speculative fiction. newsletter, The Index File, with a national [email protected] or the UWOT PHOENIX JAPANIMATION SOCI- For more info contact Dr Ray Bromley at circulation which is included with member- webmaster at ETY Local chapter of Japanimation/ [email protected]. The ship. Annual membership is just $12.50. [email protected] Web page general animation oriented fans - meets SFACE Web site is found at You can contact us at P.O. Box 63191, at: http://www.azstarnet.com/ monthly. Membership is free, though ~hgadlng/uwotclub.htm Page 18 ConNotations Volume 11 Issue 1 Pre-Registration Attending Membership CritterConDiego (San Diego, CA) July Convention $35 through March 12, 2001 The 20 - 21, 2001 The ConFurence Group, ConFurence Group, c/o Darrel L. Exline, P.O. Box 84721, San Diego, CA 92138- Listings P.O. Box 84721, San Diego, CA 92138- 4721 619-523-9814 (evenings), Email: 4721 Voice: 619-223-9482, Fax: 619- [email protected], Website: http:// The Twelfth Regeneration of Gallifrey 523-9814, Email: [email protected], confurence.net One (Van Nuys, CA) February 23-25, 2001, Airtel Plaza Hotel, Guests: Sarah Website: http://confurence.net Sutton, Mark Strickson and Bonnie HexaCon 11 (Scottsdale, AZ) July 27- Langford from Doctor Who and Paul LepreCon 27 (Scottsdale, Arizona) May 29, 2001 NEW DATES!! Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort. Arizona’s Largest Darrow of Blake’s 7 Memb: $50 at the 18-20, 2001 Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort Annual Gaming Convention Member- Door. Info: Gallifrey Conventions, PO Artist GoH: Stephen Hickman, Author ships: $15 until 12/31/2000, $20 thru 06/ Box 3021, North Hollywood, CA 91609 GoH: Michael A. Stackpole, Local Artist: 25/2001, $25 at the door. Special Thurs- (818) 752-3756, [email protected] Robert Ross, Music: Echo's Children. Web: www.gallifreyone.com Memberships $25 through 8/31/00, $30 day night events for pre-registered through 12/31/00 $35 through 5/01/01, members only. Info: Hexacon 11, PO Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082 Phone: (602) AZ Book Festival, April 7, 2001 $40 at the door. Kids 7-12 half price, Children 6 and under are free when 973-2341; Email: [email protected] The Fourth Annual Arizona Book accompanied by and adult Holiday Inn Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort, 7601 E Festival is a free springtime event hosted Sunspree Resort, 7601 E. Indian Bend Indian Bend Road, Scotts-dale, AZ (480) by the Arizona Humanities Council, on Road, Scottsdale, AZ (480) 991-2400. 991-2400. Rooms: $67 + tax S/D/T/Q. Saturday, April 7, 2001 at Margret T. Rooms $73 + tax S/D/T/Q, Suites $125 + Suites $100 + tax S/D/T/Q Hance Deck Park (Third Street south of tax S/D/T/Q Info: LepreCon 27, PO Box McDowell Road) in Phoenix. The Book 26665, Tempe, AZ 85285 Phone: (480) Costume College 2001 (Van Nuys, CA) Festival will feature the largest gathering 945-6890 Email: [email protected], July 27 - 29, 2001 Airtel Plaza Hotel, of authors on hand for readings, discus- WWW: www.leprecon.org/lep27 7277 Valjean Ave, Van Nuys, CA Call: sions, to answer questions and sign 1-800-350-1111 for room reservations. books. Three stages will be dedicated to BayCon 2001 (San Jose,CA) May 25 - $65 ICG/CGW Members until June 15, author discussions on a variety of topics 28, 2001 San Jose Double Tree 2001, $90 Non-ICG/CGW Members until all with a southwestern influence. And Hotel.Writer Guest of Honor - Rudy June 15, 2001, Join CGW ($12 one year kids will enjoy an entertainment stage Rucker, Artist Guest of Honor - Bill Membership) Make Checks Payable to geared for the young reader. Hartmann, Fan Guest of Honor - James Costumer’s Guild West, P.O. Box 3052, In addition to the stages of entertain- and Kathryn Daugherty, Special Guest - Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670-3052 Info: ment, the festival will host a children’s Poppy Z. Brite. ($60 12/1/2000 - 2/28/ Call (818) 343-0723 or Email: area with hands-on arts and crafts 2001)($65 3/1/2001 - 4/30/2001)($70 5/1/ [email protected] Website: including papermaking as well as 2001 on & at the door) BayCon 2001, http://www.costumecollege.org costumed characters. An assortment of Attn: Registration, P.O. Box 610427, San exhibitors including CASFS, LepreCon Jose, CA 95161-0427 Website: http:// Bubonicon 33 (Albuquerque, NM) Inc, booksellers, publishers, libraries, www.baycon.org August 24 - 26, 2001 Guest of Honor: bookmakers, artisans and even reading Sarah Zettel, Toastmaster S.M. Stirling groups will offer something for every AgamemCon V (Burbank, CA) June 8- Memberships: $20 thru Feb. 14, 2001, interest and every level of reader. 10, 2001 Burbank Airport Hilton, Send All Payments, Suggestions & For further information please contact: Babylon 5 and SF Media oriented Inquires To: NMSF Conference, P.O. Box [email protected] convention. Guests include: Tracey 37257, Albuquerque, NM 87176 General 2000, $30 thru April 1, 2001, $35 thru Scoggins, Alexandra Tydings, David A. Info: (505) 266-8905 or (505) 232-2892 - Aug 1, 2001, $40 at the door. Kids 7-12 ConFurence 12 (Burbank, CA) April Brooks, Bear Burge and more! Full Noon to 9:30 pm Art Show: (505) 796- half price, 6 and under free with paid Science programming track Memberships 19-22, 2001Hilton Burbank Airport Hotel 0933 / (505) 293-8671 Website: adult membership. Holiday Inn Sunspree $30 to 8/31/2000; $40 to 11/30/2000; $50 and Convention Center. Guests of Honor: members.aol.com/bubonicon Resort, 7601 E Indian Bend Road, Writer-Jymn Magon, Artist-Monika until 5/15/2001 and $60 at the door. Kids Scottsdale, AZ (480) 991-2400; Room 8-12 half price, 7 and under are free. Livingstone, Illustrator-Mike Kazaleh CopperCon 21 (Scottsdale, AZ) Sept 7- rates are $67 plus tax S/D/T/Q, Suites Info: AgamemCon, PMB# 330, 92 9, 2001 Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort. $125 plus tax. Info: CopperCon 21, PO Corporate Park, Suite C, Irvine, CA Author Guest: Julian May; Artist Guest: Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082, Email: 92606; Email: [email protected]; What is CASFS? Mark Roland, Local Author: Diana [email protected] Phone (602)973-2341 www.agamemcon.org What is really behind putting on a Gabaldon, Music Guest: Heather Alexander. Membership $25 thru Dec 1, convention? What the funds raised by a Gathering 2001: City of Angels (Los convention used for? Why not attend a meeting and find out? We’re the sponsor of Angeles, CA) June 22 - 25, 2001 The ConNotations, CopperCons, HexaCons, Fifth Annual Gathering of the Gargoyles, Generic Convention Regestration Form SmerfCons and other conventions. We are Sheration Universal Hotel, 333 Universal a charitable, non-profit organization that Terrace Parkway, Universal City, CA exists to further science fiction, fantasy 91608 Tel: (818) 980-1212, Toll Free: Name:______and science fields in Arizona. CASFS currently meets at the JB’s Restaurant at (888) 627-7186, Fax: (818) 985-4980. Badge Name:______Special Guests: Marina Sirtis, Thom 2560 W Indian School Rd in Phoenix (NW Address:______corner of I-17 and Indian School). The Adcox-Hernandez, Crispin Freeman. meetings begin at 8PM and are held on the Memberships: $40 Adult (age 15and up) - City/State/ZIP:______last Friday of the month Jan. Through 1/1/2001 to 5/15/2001, $20 Child (age 10 Sept. And on the second Friday of the Phone:______Email:______month Oct through Dec. Everyone is to 14) - 1/1/2001 to 5/15/01, $FREE invited to attend two meetings as a guest Hatching (age under 10) before 5/15/ Enclosed is $______for ______memberships for (non-member). Membership rates are $12/ 2001. Website: http:// year plus an initial $3 application fee and gathering.gargoyles-fans.org ______convention. rates are pro-rated for the amount of the (See calendar for mailing address) year remaining. For more info Call: More info on __ Masquerade __Art Show __Volunteer __ Other Stephanie L. Bannon (602)973-2341 Webpage: www.casfs.org email: [email protected] Volume 11 Issue 1 ConNotations Page 19

© Sherlock funeral as well. Don’t expect him to stay SF Tube Talk dead, though. The last episode of the February sweeps Your back cover ad could have been here for By Lee Whiteside will introduce us to agent Monica Reyes, played by Annabeth Gish (Desert Bloom, only $150! Welcome to the first bi-monthly edition Mystic Pizza). Gish will play a major of SF Tube Talk. With the beginning of role in the three part mini-arc and may be Future ConNotations deadlines and ad rates February comes the February Sweeps a regular if the series continues on to a where we get all new episodes of your ninth season. Reyes is brought on board can be found inside the front cover or contact favorite shows. Leading off this column the Mulder case by John Doggett, with is the latest news on The X-Files and who has a previous history with her. She us at PO Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082 other FOX shows. is stationed in New Orleans, and her The X-Files brings us the beginning of speciality is ritualistic crime detail a three-part story that will bring Mulder dealing with satanic cults. Chris Carter back as well as introduce a new recurring torture, and Logan consults with a doctor, says “She is quite unlike any of the other kind of stuff where the government is only to learn that she has a price on her character. Before we get there, there’s agents. She has been neither a firm several Mulder & Doggett adventures lying to us. Also white-collar crime and head and a Manticore assassin on her leading up to it. Starting off the month is we`ve got a story about the legendary trail. As you may have noticed, FOX “The Gift”, where a case Mulder kept water-powered car. We`ve got a story put Freakylinks on hiatus through most secret from Scully comes to light as about a philandering senator. We`ve got a of November and December, bringing it Doggett investigates circumstances that story about a possible Nazi war criminal, back in January. The Ratings Gods have may ultimately relate to Mulder’s who is a woman living in America.” not been kind, though, and it is being unexplained disappearance. This episode Where the show will end up after it’s pulled for February sweeps. Needless to does include flashback sequences with initial run in March will depend largely say, FOX has not ordered any additional Mulder as well as Skinner and The Lone on how well it does in the ratings. episodes of the series. FOX has also been Gunmen. In Medusa, Scully and Doggett Also likely turning up sometime in pretty silent of late about their other mid- race to investigate a string of bizarre March on FOX will be the live action season shows, Night Visions and Ultra- deaths in the tunnels of the Boston © Fox version of The Tick. It stars Patrick violet. It is possible they may hold those subway system linked to a mysterious Warburton as the big blue dense back to be used in case The Likely killer which is in the form of an algae believer nor a major skeptic, either.” superhero, David Burke as Arthur, Liz Pending Actor and Writer Strikes that consumes human flesh. Don’t eat After the February Sweeps, instead of Vassey as Captain Liberty, and Nestor (hereafter referred to as TLPAWS) go on dinner during this one! After that is Per getting X-Files repeats, FOX will debut Carbonnell as Batmanuel. The show is for months. Manum in which Scully and Doggett are the X-Files spinoff series, The Lone produced by Barry Sonnenfeld (Men in UPN has managed to stay alive by called in to investigate reports of alien Gunmen. As previously reported, the Black) and Larry Charles (Seinfeld, reaching an agreement with Rupert impregnations of human subjects. As they series will star the X-Files supporting trio Dilbert) and Tick creator Ben Edlund. Murdoch, owner of the Chris-Craft discover more disturbing clues, Scully is of Bruce Harwood as John Byers, Tom Also on board as a writer/producer is station group, to extend their affiliate forced to question whether she should Braidwood as Melvin Frohike, and Dean David Sacks (The Simpsons) and one of agreement for 18 months, effectively to reveal the secret of her pregnancy to Haglund as Richard Langly. Joining the early episodes was directed by Dean the end of the 2001/2002 season. UPN Doggett. Clues to the identity of who — them will be Zuleikha Robinson as Parisot (Galaxy Quest). Making an was hoping for a longer time span, but or what — the father of Scully’s baby Vyves Adele Harlow, and Stephen appearance in the pilot is Christopher was not able to get it. With the departure may be revealed. The final sweeps Snedden as Jimmy Bond. Harlow will be Lloyd and both Edlund and Sonnenfeld of Voyager in May and (again) episode, “This Is Not Happening”, the one of the Gunmen’s competitors and make cameos when The Tick’s feet go TLPAWS, that could be all the longer search for Mulder intensifies as FBI agent sometimes co-hort, if the pilot episode is through a ceiling. Not much more is that UPN lasts. Monica Reyes joins the hunt for the any indication. Bond was not part of the known about the individual episodes, but Before we get to Voyager’s finale, missing Mulder in the first of a three- produced pilot episode and his role is as if the pilot is any indication (where some however, we’ve got quite a few episodes episode story arc. As Scully and of yet unknown, although from the Russians bring the robotic assassin The left, including a new batch through the Doggett’s difference of opinions about the photos, it appears he could have been Red Scare out of mothballs when Jimmy end of February that features a big budget missing Mulder heighten, Doggett enlists added for sex appeal. He will likely be Carter is in town), the show should be two-parter. Early in the month should be Reyes’ help to bring her own viewpoint to introduced in the second episode, “Bond, worth catching even if the Neilsen Prophecy (formerly titled Descendants) the case. Needless to say, the end of the Jimmy Bond”. The series has been families snub their nose at it. with the Klingon generation ship reported episode will leave fans hanging until the described as a “misguided Mission: Dark Angel continues to do well in the on last column. It seems that when some second part, which won’t air until early Impossible team lacking social skills.” ratings, making it a good bet to continue of the Klingon’s find out about the Paris/ April. The next part is rumored to Chris Carter says “Right now, they`re for another season. During February, Torres baby, they believe it is the coming include appearances by the Lone Gun- not dealing with the paranormal...[Their Max has to take drastic measures when of a new Klingon messiah to fulfill an men, Krycek, as well as Jeremiah Smith. cases] have more to do with what I`d call the Red Menace returns, she has to deal It is also reported to have Mulder’s contemporary crime and injustice. The with Zack, who escapes from Manticore after months of mental and physical

ConNotations Non-Profit Org. Central Arizona Speculative Fiction Society US Postage PO Box 62613 PAID Phoenix, AZ 85082 Permit 839 Phoenix, AZ

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