Con-Etiquette…

Rule #1 & Other Rule #1: Have Fun & Learn Some- LARP: “Who Dunnit?” Come join this slice of alter- presents… thing—about sf/f, about science, and about fandom. nate reality, with liberal splashes of color and madness. Memberships: Like most volunteer-run cons, The two Goddesses will guide you through this Colorful Con†Stellation sells Memberships, not Tickets. We’re Theater in Three Parts. Check the schedule on pages all stakeholders and everyone (except our listed guests) 6–7 for meetings each day to anchor a weekend of magic. Con Stellation XXVIII: Vulpecula pays their way. If you can pitch in to help, we’ll wel- † come it. If you have an idea to improve the con, talk to Dances: Dances will occur on both Friday and Satur- any staff member. (Of course, if it’s your idea, and if it’s day nights. Both dances will feature a wide variety of something we can fit in, we’ll want you to at least help music from the 50’s through today. Our DJs for both Make It Happen.) dances are Manda & Marie; meet them in Lobby II for 18-20 September 2009 Weapons Policy: Don’t Be Stupid. More specific? lots of fun. No functional projectile weapons (even water pistols). Gaming: Here’s another place to look for posted Holiday Inn Express All weapons to be boxed, bagged, or peace tied—edged schedules. There’ll be room for Open Gaming too, so weapons to be sheathed as well. No drawing of weap- jump in to promote your own pickup games. Then, sign Huntsville, Alabama onry, no horseplay, no careless weapon handling. Keep up for the Killer Cutthroat Spades Tourney—a Nice staves/staffs/pole arms vertical. The convention has the Friendly Game of Cards™. final say on whether any weapon may be brought into Autographs: The autograph session is 1:00P Sunday convention areas. Handle weapons at your own risk. in Lobby II. Please be considerate with your requests David Weber Exceptions? For the Masquerade, if approved in then, and at all other times. Guest of Honor advance by the Masquerade Staff. Violations? You lose Art “Stuff”: The auction is late Saturday; bid your membership with no refund. But really, folks, early—and often—in the Art Show and Charity Auc- Jack McDevitt Don’t Be Stupid and it will be all right. tion starting Friday. Master of Ceremonies Drinking Age: Alabama’s drinking age is 21. Our Dealers Room: Our Dealers are Members, badges do not indicate age; parties are strongly encour- too—except they’ve got the goods and you’ve got the aged to card everyone before serving alcohol. We’d money. Hmm… can an exchange be arranged? John Picacio also like to add: Do Not Drink and Drive. Masquerade: Got a costume (or just part of one) but Artist Guest of Honor Con†Stellation wouldn’t exist without your support, no idea what to do on stage? We’ll be glad to help; you and we want you back next year! just might win a share of $100 in prize money. Gary Shelton Con†Stellation XXVIII: Vulpecula Fan Guest of Honor Convention Committee Also Expected to Attend Co-Chairs ...... Mike Kennedy & Sam Smith Lou Anders, Julie Cochrane, David Drake, Mark Fitzgerald, Treasurer ...... Sam Smith Allan Gilbreath, Sarah Hoyt, Les Johnson, Scott Oden, Stephanie Art Show ...... Randy Cleary Con Suite ...... Judy Smith Osborn, Dr. Travis S. “Doc” Taylor, and Toni Weisskopf Dance DJs ...... Manda Freeman & Marie McCormack Dealers Room ...... Sue Thorn Artwork Credits Game Room ...... Craig Goodrick Cover Art Elric and the Horn of Fate ...... John Picacio Guest Liaison ...... Sue Thorn Interior Art Projections ...... John Picacio Hotel Liaison ...... Mary Lampert Badge Art Sci-Fi Fox Girl ...... Randy Cleary Con-Etiquette & The Con†Stellation XXVIII: Vulpecula Committee . . . IFC LARP ...... “Goddesses” Liv Andre & Brandy Miller David Weber, A Complex Individual ...... 2 Masquerade ...... Manda Freeman Significant Others: Ray Beddingfield, Michael Breitbach, Operations ...... Kevin “KO” Omel Shelly Breitbach, Bruce Butler, Gene Chapman, Nancy Jack McDevitt — An Exposé...... 4 Programming ...... Doug Lampert Cucci, Jennifer Deal, Jeff Freeman, Wolfgang Freeman, Schedule of Events ...... 6-7 Publications ...... Mike Cothran & Bill Savage Adam Grin, Maria Grim, Sunn Hayward, Jim Kennedy, Publicity & Webhead ...... Bill Savage Joshua Kennedy, Tracey Kennedy, Brandy Spraker, Jenny What Goes Into a Picacio ...... 8 Registration ...... Mike Stone Leach, Jon Lassiter, Russ McNutt, Tim O’Neil, Rob Peck, You Don’t Know Jack… err, Gary ...... 10 Spades Tournament ...... Uncle Timmy Robin Ray, Ali Scanland, Eric Seemann, Steve Sloan, Deb T-Shirt Design ...... David O. Miller Stone, Jenna Stone, and The Science Fiction Writers Group Gary “The Fish” Shelton ...... 10 T-Shirt Maven ...... Anita Eisenberg and Cake Appreciation Society. Hotel Layout ...... IBC …and Information ever invited another author to participate in story once your hero or heroine has the series in novel-length. But, more than become—as Honor has by now—a top admi- that, I was excited by the prospect. ral, confidant of the queen, and a major polit- The reason is simple. I like complex and ical force in her own right, then you’re look- David Weber; A Complex Individual long stories. I always have, from the time I ing at a very different dramatic equation. was a kid. And there isn’t any series out there Forester essentially ducked the problem, as in the way of space opera—and never has almost all authors do. David, however, is tack- been, that I can think of—that has a setting as ling the dramatic problem head on. Honor by Eric Flint complex, rich and well-worked-out as David Harrington remains at the center of the series, Weber’s Honor Harrington series. and the military and political challenges she I don’t think most people fully appreciate confronts keep growing, not diminishing. the immense challenge David has set himself And he has to do all this while not losing the in this series. The common comparison, of essential action/adventure character of the course, is to C.S. Forester’s famous series that drew readers to it in the first place. Hornblower series. But, starting several nov- I love working in the series. Partly because els ago, David ventured into territory that I enjoy it on its own terms, of course. But also I first ran into David Weber because of an From then on, I started following the series Forester carefully stayed away from. (So did because I enjoy working with David. advertisement that Baen Books ran to pro- very closely indeed. And when, a year later, Patrick O’Brian, in his well-know Aubrey- Collaborative writing is a term that brings mote my first novel, Mother of Demons, back David asked me if I’d like to write a story set Matuchin novels.) a sneer in some quarters. But, done properly, in 1997. I can’t remember any longer where in the Honor universe for one of the accom- Here’s the problem, in a nutshell. It’s one it’s not a watered-down version of what an the ad appeared. Probably in the pages of panying anthologies, I eagerly accepted. The thing to write a series of action/adventure author does on his or her own. It’s a different Locus, but I won’t swear to it. I also don’t result was a short novel titled From the High- stories with a hero or heroine who’s a captain. literary medium altogether, actually. As dif- remember the precise wording of the ad, but lands, which appeared in Worlds of Honor 3. That’s hard enough, at least if you do it well. ferent as chamber music is from a solo the gist of it was: David liked it enough he asked me to write a But when you move on and continue the recital. “From the publishing house that sequel, which I did in the novella “Fanatic”, brought you Lois McMaster Bujold, which appears in World of Honor 4. Elizabeth Moon and David Weber, By that time, at Jim Baen’s suggestion, † heeeeeeeeeeeeere’s Eric Flint.” David and I had agreed to collaborate on a Con Stellation XXIX: Leo I’d read several of Lois’ novels, and sequel to my novel, 1632. That sequel, 1633, 17-19 September 2010 — Holiday Inn Express although I hadn’t (at the time—that’s came out in August of 2002. By the time we Guest of Honor Master of Ceremonies changed since) read anything by Elizabeth, I were done with it, we’d found that collabo- knew who she was. But the name “David rating was extremely enjoyable. So, David Wen Spencer Steve Jackson Weber” rang only a vague bell. proposed that we work together on three nov- Since it was obviously my duty to correct els set in his Honor Harrington universe, Artist Guest of Honor that oversight, I quickly perused the titles which would take the material I’d developed Vincent DiFate available, and figured out soon enough that initially in the two anthology stories and this Weber fellow was best known for his weave it into the mainline developments of Fan Guest of Honor Honor Harrington series—and, lo and the series as a whole. Warren Buff behold, the first novel in the series was sitting To begin with, of course, I was quite hon- right there on the shelves. So, I made my way ored by the offer. It was the first time—and Don’t Be Laying Around — Special Rates Sunday to the cash register and bought it. still, so far, the only time—that David has 2 3 ever invited another author to participate in story once your hero or heroine has the series in novel-length. But, more than become—as Honor has by now—a top admi- that, I was excited by the prospect. ral, confidant of the queen, and a major polit- The reason is simple. I like complex and ical force in her own right, then you’re look- David Weber; A Complex Individual long stories. I always have, from the time I ing at a very different dramatic equation. was a kid. And there isn’t any series out there Forester essentially ducked the problem, as in the way of space opera—and never has almost all authors do. David, however, is tack- been, that I can think of—that has a setting as ling the dramatic problem head on. Honor by Eric Flint complex, rich and well-worked-out as David Harrington remains at the center of the series, Weber’s Honor Harrington series. and the military and political challenges she I don’t think most people fully appreciate confronts keep growing, not diminishing. the immense challenge David has set himself And he has to do all this while not losing the in this series. The common comparison, of essential action/adventure character of the course, is to C.S. Forester’s famous series that drew readers to it in the first place. Hornblower series. But, starting several nov- I love working in the series. Partly because els ago, David ventured into territory that I enjoy it on its own terms, of course. But also I first ran into David Weber because of an From then on, I started following the series Forester carefully stayed away from. (So did because I enjoy working with David. advertisement that Baen Books ran to pro- very closely indeed. And when, a year later, Patrick O’Brian, in his well-know Aubrey- Collaborative writing is a term that brings mote my first novel, Mother of Demons, back David asked me if I’d like to write a story set Matuchin novels.) a sneer in some quarters. But, done properly, in 1997. I can’t remember any longer where in the Honor universe for one of the accom- Here’s the problem, in a nutshell. It’s one it’s not a watered-down version of what an the ad appeared. Probably in the pages of panying anthologies, I eagerly accepted. The thing to write a series of action/adventure author does on his or her own. It’s a different Locus, but I won’t swear to it. I also don’t result was a short novel titled From the High- stories with a hero or heroine who’s a captain. literary medium altogether, actually. As dif- remember the precise wording of the ad, but lands, which appeared in Worlds of Honor 3. That’s hard enough, at least if you do it well. ferent as chamber music is from a solo the gist of it was: David liked it enough he asked me to write a But when you move on and continue the recital. “From the publishing house that sequel, which I did in the novella “Fanatic”, brought you Lois McMaster Bujold, which appears in World of Honor 4. Elizabeth Moon and David Weber, By that time, at Jim Baen’s suggestion, † heeeeeeeeeeeeere’s Eric Flint.” David and I had agreed to collaborate on a Con Stellation XXIX: Leo I’d read several of Lois’ novels, and sequel to my novel, 1632. That sequel, 1633, 17-19 September 2010 — Holiday Inn Express although I hadn’t (at the time—that’s came out in August of 2002. By the time we Guest of Honor Master of Ceremonies changed since) read anything by Elizabeth, I were done with it, we’d found that collabo- knew who she was. But the name “David rating was extremely enjoyable. So, David Wen Spencer Steve Jackson Weber” rang only a vague bell. proposed that we work together on three nov- Since it was obviously my duty to correct els set in his Honor Harrington universe, Artist Guest of Honor that oversight, I quickly perused the titles which would take the material I’d developed Vincent DiFate available, and figured out soon enough that initially in the two anthology stories and this Weber fellow was best known for his weave it into the mainline developments of Fan Guest of Honor Honor Harrington series—and, lo and the series as a whole. Warren Buff behold, the first novel in the series was sitting To begin with, of course, I was quite hon- right there on the shelves. So, I made my way ored by the offer. It was the first time—and Don’t Be Laying Around — Special Rates Sunday to the cash register and bought it. still, so far, the only time—that David has 2 3 but he manages to tell entirely personal tales He is also a fanboy down to his bones, Jack McDevitt—An Exposé centered around a few exceptionally well- appearing not just at Con†Stellation but at drawn characters. numerous science fiction conventions It’s like a bright pinpoint of light in an echo- throughout the year. ing cavernous room implying immensity and He reads science fiction. He loves science By Kevin J. Anderson intimacy at the same time. fiction. He even holds cherished memories of So, he’s got both the science fiction part old superhero comics, and he was one of the down, and the characters… which should be avid first readers of my 1940’s-era Justice enough for any writer. Society of America comic series from DC, But Jack also tells gangbuster stories, and of my Superman/Batman novels Ene- intriguing and meaningful novels that are mies & Allies and The Last Days of Krypton. real page turners that explore every aspect And he’s not ashamed to be a fan, either. A about an idea, while leaving some of the Big man who can accomplish so much and so Jack McDevitt is a showoff. For War (1989) took him to a different sec- Questions open for the reader. well might be content to rest on his laurels, That’s the first thing you should know. He tion to the galactic canvas and introduced his Jack is not a precious, artsy writer; his withdraw from “the rest of us,” buy an expen- doesn’t mean to be, and he certainly doesn’t continuing character Alex Benedict [also prose is clear and vivid, sweeping you along sive cigarette holder and discuss the merits of let it go to his head, although by his continu- Polaris (2004), Seeker (2005), The Devil’s and often making you forget that these are impossible-to-pronounce varieties of ous output of absolutely splendid fiction over Eye (2008)]. just words on a page. imported wines. the years, Jack has quietly and unequivocally Jack is best-known for his Priscilla Yet, even with such a transparent and But not Jack McDevitt. proved that he can do just about anything in “Hutch” Hutchins series of novels (The unpretentious style, Jack has somehow man- He is also a great person, self-effacing, gen- science fiction—and do it well. And he has Engines of God (1994), Deepsix (2001), aged to endeared himself to the critics and to tle, interesting and interested, a man who earned the quiet envy of many of his fellow Chindi (2002), Omega (2003), Odyssey the awards community. worked for years in the patent office, always authors, including myself. (2006), Cauldron (2007)). He has been nominated more times for quick to return a favor, and a pleasure to be I first encountered Jack’s work with The Not one to be typecast, though, Jack has major science fiction awards than I could around. Hercules Text (1986), part of the prestigious also written several excellent standalone nov- ever count, and he won the Nebula Award for Once again, he shines in so many areas that line of the new Ace Specials. Anyone chosen els—Ancient Shores (1996), Eternity Road Seeker. he has to be a showoff. But don’t let that color to be included in that lofty line was immedi- (1998), Infinity Beach (2000), and best of all As I said, he’s a showoff. your impression of Jack. I’m sure he’ll be on ately saddled with high expectations in the Moonfall (1998), which I read in bound gal- But Jack McDevitt doesn’t let the awards his best behavior during the con. community. Now that more than two decades leys and still consider to be one of the best and critical acclaim go to his head. Get to know him. You’ll be glad you did. have passed and more than half of the other cosmic disaster novels ever written, on par Holiday Inn Select “Special Children” have shuffled off the with Lucifer’s Hammer and far superior to genre stage, Jack forged onward, showing the big-budget films Deep Impact and Arma- Atlanta-Perimeter the rest of us how it’s done. geddon, both of which were released at May 28-30, 2010 In 1988 I encountered Jack again with his approximately the same time. short story “The Fort Moxie Branch” in the But don’t get the impression that Jack www.timegatecon.org much-lauded anthology Full Spectrum 1 waves his word processor over such enor- Kelly Yates [tentative] (comic book artist, Doctor Who: The Forgotten) (which also included one of my early short mous galactic empires that he loses track of David Read (Gateworld.net) [tentative] Dominic Glynn (composer, Doctor Who) stories); “Fort Moxie..” was nominated for the people. Lars Pearson & Christa Dickson (Mad Norwegian Press) [tentative] the Nebula Award. His novels may be set in the context of Andrew Cartmel (script editor, Doctor Who) Jack’s sophomore novel effort, A Talent galactic empires and multiple solar systems, Anthony Taylor (author, The Future was FAB: The Art of Mike Trim) 4 5 but he manages to tell entirely personal tales He is also a fanboy down to his bones, Jack McDevitt—An Exposé centered around a few exceptionally well- appearing not just at Con†Stellation but at drawn characters. numerous science fiction conventions It’s like a bright pinpoint of light in an echo- throughout the year. ing cavernous room implying immensity and He reads science fiction. He loves science By Kevin J. Anderson intimacy at the same time. fiction. He even holds cherished memories of So, he’s got both the science fiction part old superhero comics, and he was one of the down, and the characters… which should be avid first readers of my 1940’s-era Justice enough for any writer. Society of America comic series from DC, But Jack also tells gangbuster stories, and of my Superman/Batman novels Ene- intriguing and meaningful novels that are mies & Allies and The Last Days of Krypton. real page turners that explore every aspect And he’s not ashamed to be a fan, either. A about an idea, while leaving some of the Big man who can accomplish so much and so Jack McDevitt is a showoff. For War (1989) took him to a different sec- Questions open for the reader. well might be content to rest on his laurels, That’s the first thing you should know. He tion to the galactic canvas and introduced his Jack is not a precious, artsy writer; his withdraw from “the rest of us,” buy an expen- doesn’t mean to be, and he certainly doesn’t continuing character Alex Benedict [also prose is clear and vivid, sweeping you along sive cigarette holder and discuss the merits of let it go to his head, although by his continu- Polaris (2004), Seeker (2005), The Devil’s and often making you forget that these are impossible-to-pronounce varieties of ous output of absolutely splendid fiction over Eye (2008)]. just words on a page. imported wines. the years, Jack has quietly and unequivocally Jack is best-known for his Priscilla Yet, even with such a transparent and But not Jack McDevitt. proved that he can do just about anything in “Hutch” Hutchins series of novels (The unpretentious style, Jack has somehow man- He is also a great person, self-effacing, gen- science fiction—and do it well. And he has Engines of God (1994), Deepsix (2001), aged to endeared himself to the critics and to tle, interesting and interested, a man who earned the quiet envy of many of his fellow Chindi (2002), Omega (2003), Odyssey the awards community. worked for years in the patent office, always authors, including myself. (2006), Cauldron (2007)). He has been nominated more times for quick to return a favor, and a pleasure to be I first encountered Jack’s work with The Not one to be typecast, though, Jack has major science fiction awards than I could around. Hercules Text (1986), part of the prestigious also written several excellent standalone nov- ever count, and he won the Nebula Award for Once again, he shines in so many areas that line of the new Ace Specials. Anyone chosen els—Ancient Shores (1996), Eternity Road Seeker. he has to be a showoff. But don’t let that color to be included in that lofty line was immedi- (1998), Infinity Beach (2000), and best of all As I said, he’s a showoff. your impression of Jack. I’m sure he’ll be on ately saddled with high expectations in the Moonfall (1998), which I read in bound gal- But Jack McDevitt doesn’t let the awards his best behavior during the con. community. Now that more than two decades leys and still consider to be one of the best and critical acclaim go to his head. Get to know him. You’ll be glad you did. have passed and more than half of the other cosmic disaster novels ever written, on par Holiday Inn Select “Special Children” have shuffled off the with Lucifer’s Hammer and far superior to genre stage, Jack forged onward, showing the big-budget films Deep Impact and Arma- Atlanta-Perimeter the rest of us how it’s done. geddon, both of which were released at May 28-30, 2010 In 1988 I encountered Jack again with his approximately the same time. short story “The Fort Moxie Branch” in the But don’t get the impression that Jack www.timegatecon.org much-lauded anthology Full Spectrum 1 waves his word processor over such enor- Kelly Yates [tentative] (comic book artist, Doctor Who: The Forgotten) (which also included one of my early short mous galactic empires that he loses track of David Read (Gateworld.net) [tentative] Dominic Glynn (composer, Doctor Who) stories); “Fort Moxie..” was nominated for the people. Lars Pearson & Christa Dickson (Mad Norwegian Press) [tentative] the Nebula Award. His novels may be set in the context of Andrew Cartmel (script editor, Doctor Who) Jack’s sophomore novel effort, A Talent galactic empires and multiple solar systems, Anthony Taylor (author, The Future was FAB: The Art of Mike Trim) 4 5 Schedule of Events Schedule of Events Friday 12:00 p.m. Registration Opens Lobby II 2:00 p.m. Slide Show: The Art of John Picacio — John Picacio Patriot Room Con Suite Opens Room 309 Win Sam Smith’s Money! — Sam Smith, Gary Shelton Lobby II Operations Opens Lobby II Fan Videos — Dan Thompson Room 310 Dealers Room Opens for Move-in Apollo Room Make It & Take It: Origami — Robin Ray — 2 hours ConSuite Prep Room Art Show Opens for Move-in Garden Spot 3:00 p.m. Registration Closes — See Signs for After-Hours Registration 2:00 p.m. Art Show Opens Garden Spot Slide Show: Baen Books — Toni Weisskopf Patriot Room Dealers Room Opens Apollo Room Behind the Man — Sharon Weber, Maureen McDevitt, et al. Lobby II 5:00 p.m. Steampunk 101 — Tomas Quin Patriot Room 4:00 p.m. Guest of Honor Ceremony — All Guests Lobby II Make It & Take It: Pirate Stuff, Arrrgh! — Robin Ray — 90 min Lobby II 5:00 p.m. Why You Should Buy Our Books — Mark Fitzgerald, et al. Patriot Room Reading — Julie Cochrane Room 310 Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 3 — 90 minutes Room 310 6:00 p.m. Reading — Sarah Hoyt — 30 minutes Room 310 Art Show Closes 6:30 p.m. Opening Ceremony Patriot Room Dealers Room Closes 7:00 p.m. LARP: Cast of the Crayons — Liv Andre, Brandy Miller Patriot Room 6:00 p.m. Reading — David Weber Patriot Room The Huntsville Science Fiction Writer’s Group Lobby II Art & Charity Auction — 90 minutes Lobby II and Cake Appreciation Society Readings — 2 hours 6:30 p.m. Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 4 — 90 minutes Room 310 Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 1 — 90 minutes Room 310 7:00 p.m. Beginner’s Mistakes Patriot Room 8:00 p.m. Reading — Mark Fitzgerald — 30 minutes Patriot Room — Jack McDevitt, Toni Weisskopf, Lou Anders, Eric Flint Art Show Closes 7:15 p.m. Masquerade Pre-Judging Lobby II Dealers Room Closes 8:00 p.m. Masquerade Lobby II 8:30 p.m. Reading — Stephanie Osborn Room 310 9:00 p.m. Alien Invasion — Travis “Doc” Taylor Patriot Room 9:00 p.m. Hard SF is Fun SF! — Toni Weisskopf, et al. Lobby II Reading — Dan Hoyt — 30 minutes Room 310 9:30 p.m. Chairman’s Reception — All Guests — 90 minutes Patriot Room 9:30 p.m. Concert — Jeff Uglyshoes & the Cemetery Surfers Lobby II Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 2 — 90 minutes Room 310 Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 5 — 90 minutes Room 310 10:00 p.m. Registration Closes — See Signs for After-Hours Registration 10:00 p.m. Reading — Jack McDevitt Patriot Room 10:30 p.m. Friday Night Dance — Manda Freeman & Marie McCormack Lobby II 11:00 p.m. Saturday Night Dance — Manda Freeman & Marie McCormack Lobby II 11:00 p.m. Ghost Hunting — Allan Gilbreath, Jeff Uglyshoes et al. Patriot Room Reading — Scott Oden Room 310 Saturday Sunday 9:00 a.m. Registration Opens Lobby II 10:00 a.m. Art Show Opens Garden Spot 10:00 a.m. Art Show Opens Garden Spot Dealers Room Opens Apollo Room Dealers Room Opens Apollo Room An Hour with Eric Flint — Eric Flint Patriot Room Just How Did Pirates Actually Talk? — David Weber, et al. Patriot Room 11:00 a.m. Roundtable: Cover Art and You — 2 hours Lobby II 11:00 a.m. Slide Show: Paradise Regained — Les Johnson Patriot Room — Jack McDevitt, et al. Networking on the Net — Lou Anders, et al. Lobby II Movie Year in Review — Gary Shelton Patriot Room Dr. Horrible Meets Rocky Jones Meets MST3K Room 310 12:00 p.m. LARP: True Colors Revealed — Liv Andre, Brandy Miller Patriot Room — Jeff Uglyshoes — 3 Hours 1:00 p.m. Autographs — All Guests — Gary Shelton Facilitator 2 hours Lobby II 12:00 p.m. Slide Show: Pyr Books — Lou Anders Patriot Room Homesteading Space — David Hitt Patriot Room Reading — David Drake Lobby II 2:00 p.m. Art Show Closes 12:30 p.m. Crock Pot Cooking — Nancy Cucci ConSuite Prep Room Dealers Room Closes 1:00 p.m. LARP: Check Your Colors — Liv Andre, Brandy Miller Patriot Room 3:00 p.m. Con Suite Closes Pirates Stole Our Topic, Arrgh! — Jack McDevitt, et al. Lobby II 6:00 p.m. Dead Dog Lobby II 6 7 Schedule of Events Schedule of Events Friday 12:00 p.m. Registration Opens Lobby II 2:00 p.m. Slide Show: The Art of John Picacio — John Picacio Patriot Room Con Suite Opens Room 309 Win Sam Smith’s Money! — Sam Smith, Gary Shelton Lobby II Operations Opens Lobby II Fan Videos — Dan Thompson Room 310 Dealers Room Opens for Move-in Apollo Room Make It & Take It: Origami — Robin Ray — 2 hours ConSuite Prep Room Art Show Opens for Move-in Garden Spot 3:00 p.m. Registration Closes — See Signs for After-Hours Registration 2:00 p.m. Art Show Opens Garden Spot Slide Show: Baen Books — Toni Weisskopf Patriot Room Dealers Room Opens Apollo Room Behind the Man — Sharon Weber, Maureen McDevitt, et al. Lobby II 5:00 p.m. Steampunk 101 — Tomas Quin Patriot Room 4:00 p.m. Guest of Honor Ceremony — All Guests Lobby II Make It & Take It: Pirate Stuff, Arrrgh! — Robin Ray — 90 min Lobby II 5:00 p.m. Why You Should Buy Our Books — Mark Fitzgerald, et al. Patriot Room Reading — Julie Cochrane Room 310 Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 3 — 90 minutes Room 310 6:00 p.m. Reading — Sarah Hoyt — 30 minutes Room 310 Art Show Closes 6:30 p.m. Opening Ceremony Patriot Room Dealers Room Closes 7:00 p.m. LARP: Cast of the Crayons — Liv Andre, Brandy Miller Patriot Room 6:00 p.m. Reading — David Weber Patriot Room The Huntsville Science Fiction Writer’s Group Lobby II Art & Charity Auction — 90 minutes Lobby II and Cake Appreciation Society Readings — 2 hours 6:30 p.m. Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 4 — 90 minutes Room 310 Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 1 — 90 minutes Room 310 7:00 p.m. Beginner’s Mistakes Patriot Room 8:00 p.m. Reading — Mark Fitzgerald — 30 minutes Patriot Room — Jack McDevitt, Toni Weisskopf, Lou Anders, Eric Flint Art Show Closes 7:15 p.m. Masquerade Pre-Judging Lobby II Dealers Room Closes 8:00 p.m. Masquerade Lobby II 8:30 p.m. Reading — Stephanie Osborn Room 310 9:00 p.m. Alien Invasion — Travis “Doc” Taylor Patriot Room 9:00 p.m. Hard SF is Fun SF! — Toni Weisskopf, et al. Lobby II Reading — Dan Hoyt — 30 minutes Room 310 9:30 p.m. Chairman’s Reception — All Guests — 90 minutes Patriot Room 9:30 p.m. Concert — Jeff Uglyshoes & the Cemetery Surfers Lobby II Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 2 — 90 minutes Room 310 Torchwood: Children of Earth, Part 5 — 90 minutes Room 310 10:00 p.m. Registration Closes — See Signs for After-Hours Registration 10:00 p.m. Reading — Jack McDevitt Patriot Room 10:30 p.m. Friday Night Dance — Manda Freeman & Marie McCormack Lobby II 11:00 p.m. Saturday Night Dance — Manda Freeman & Marie McCormack Lobby II 11:00 p.m. Ghost Hunting — Allan Gilbreath, Jeff Uglyshoes et al. Patriot Room Reading — Scott Oden Room 310 Saturday Sunday 9:00 a.m. Registration Opens Lobby II 10:00 a.m. Art Show Opens Garden Spot 10:00 a.m. Art Show Opens Garden Spot Dealers Room Opens Apollo Room Dealers Room Opens Apollo Room An Hour with Eric Flint — Eric Flint Patriot Room Just How Did Pirates Actually Talk? — David Weber, et al. Patriot Room 11:00 a.m. Roundtable: Cover Art and You — 2 hours Lobby II 11:00 a.m. Slide Show: Paradise Regained — Les Johnson Patriot Room — Jack McDevitt, et al. Networking on the Net — Lou Anders, et al. Lobby II Movie Year in Review — Gary Shelton Patriot Room Dr. Horrible Meets Rocky Jones Meets MST3K Room 310 12:00 p.m. LARP: True Colors Revealed — Liv Andre, Brandy Miller Patriot Room — Jeff Uglyshoes — 3 Hours 1:00 p.m. Autographs — All Guests — Gary Shelton Facilitator 2 hours Lobby II 12:00 p.m. Slide Show: Pyr Books — Lou Anders Patriot Room Homesteading Space — David Hitt Patriot Room Reading — David Drake Lobby II 2:00 p.m. Art Show Closes 12:30 p.m. Crock Pot Cooking — Nancy Cucci ConSuite Prep Room Dealers Room Closes 1:00 p.m. LARP: Check Your Colors — Liv Andre, Brandy Miller Patriot Room 3:00 p.m. Con Suite Closes Pirates Stole Our Topic, Arrgh! — Jack McDevitt, et al. Lobby II 6:00 p.m. Dead Dog Lobby II 6 7 authors with the leverage to do so—and I bringing him into my home state means a know some very big name ones who have great, great deal to me. This weekend you’ll What Goes Into a Picacio done this—demand that their publishers see what a warm and gracious individual he engage him. It’s why a science fiction grand- is, how thoughtful and considerate. He car- master once told me to make his own name ries himself with a self-possessed dignity we smaller on the book cover so that more of all should aspire to. He is unbelievably well- by Lou Anders John’s art would show. (Trust me, this never spoken and articulate for one who makes his happens.) Finally, it’s why John has been living in a visual, non-verbal medium. He’s a nominated for the Hugo award the past five great guy. He’s a genius—even in a field rife years in a row, why he has won the Locus with geniuses. He’s an artist. Thank you for Award, two International Horror Guild having him as artist guest of honor at Awards, three Chesley Awards and the much- Con†Stellation. Be sure to make the most of The process goes something like this: I hire piece I am paying you for. And I say it’s done. coveted World Fantasy Award. It’s why he’s it—engage him on anything and everything John for a book cover. John reads book. We Trust me, John says. It’s not done. here right now. you want. Just don’t ask him if my next cov- talk it to death over several weeks. John I worry for the next week as he makes such I first met John Picacio in 2000, at the ers are really done, no matter how much I sends me early sketches (called roughs). panic-inducing statements as it still needs a World Fantasy Convention in Corpus insist to you that they are. We both know There may be several different concepts. We lot of work and such and such needed a com- Christi, Texas. He was just getting started what he’ll say. And he’ll be right. He’s the talk this over more. One of them doesn’t so plete redo. Promise me you saved the previ- then, as was I. The wonderful British fanta- artist. much as emerge as the direction—as point to ous version, I say. Finally, the final piece sist Graham Joyce put us together, or rather, it. John has breakthrough and comes back arrives. Graham came to me and said that there was a with a concept. I may or may not understand. It is even better. really talented new artist at the con that I abso- A 2009/2008/2007 Hugo Award nominee, 2008 Philip K. Dick John does painting. I ask to see it. John wor- We’ve done this on about 18 covers so far. lutely had to meet. Somehow we connected Award nominee, 2008/2006 Chesley Award winner/nominee, ries that it’s not done and doesn’t want me to We will be doing it as you read this, as he is on a level deeper than either of us initially and 2006 World Fantasy Award nominee, Lou Anders is the edi- see it until it is further along. John relents and currently working on three more. Around the torial director of Prometheus Books' science fiction and fantasy fathomed. We were both very driven individ- imprint Pyr, as well as the anthologies Fast Forward 2 (Pyr, shows it to me anyway, either because he time of this convention, I imagine we will be uals, both at the start of our careers, and we October 2008), Sideways in Crime (Solaris, June 2008), Fast can’t help himself or because my whining right around the it’s done/no it isn’t phase. fell into parallel tracks in that wonderful way Forward 1(Pyr, February 2007), FutureShocks (Roc, January wears him down. It’s brilliant. Absolutely You can ask either of us the question. John’s of only the most stimulating friendships, 2006), Projections: Science Fiction in Literature & Film perfect. Seeing it reinforces all my faith, con- will be the right answer. (MonkeyBrain, December 2004), Live Without a Net (Roc, where each serves to inspire, drive, and fuel 2003), and Outside the Box (Wildside Press, 2001). In 2000, vinces me it’s the only possible solution for Because John is the artist. He prefers the the other. Nine years later, and we are still he served as the Executive Editor of Bookface.com, and before the book in question, he is the only possible term illustrator, reserving “artist” for only running our career in tandem. We seem to that he worked as the Los Angeles Liaison for Titan Publishing artist capable of executing it. It’s a master- those truly vanguard individuals who are his have our best times, our lowest points, our Group. He is the author of The Making of Star Trek: First Con- piece. own inspiration. But an illustrator would busiest months, our greatest successes, all at tact (Titan Books, 1996), and has published over 500 articles in such magazines as The Believer, Publishers Weekly, Dreamwatch, It’s not done, John then says. It needs a lot have stopped when the client told him the the same time, oddly—but not longer sur- DeathRay, free inquiry, Star Trek Monthly, Star Wars Monthly, Bab- more work. work was finished. That he pushes himself prisingly—synced. This past August, he won ylon 5 Magazine, Sci Fi Universe, Doctor Who Magazine, and John, it’s perfect, I say. It’s good to go. beyond the requests of his client, past the his third Chesley for the cover of my latest Manga Max. His articles and stories have been translated into Trust me, John says. It’s not done. John, I point of what is more than and absolutely suf- Danish, Greek, German, Italian & French. anthology, a cover I art directed, and five min- Visit him online at http://louanders.blogspot.com/ am really happy with it, I say. It’s perfect, I ficient, and that he doesn’t stop until he has utes later, I won my first Chesley for Best Art say. You really don’t need to do anything satisfied his most demanding critic—himself Director. That’s how it works with us, and more to it, I say. We may fight. When this —is why people in this industry speak of “a why I can’t dream of a career without him. fails, I add something like, This here is the Picacio” in reference to his art. It’s why He’s a best friend and a brother, and your 8 9 authors with the leverage to do so—and I bringing him into my home state means a know some very big name ones who have great, great deal to me. This weekend you’ll What Goes Into a Picacio done this—demand that their publishers see what a warm and gracious individual he engage him. It’s why a science fiction grand- is, how thoughtful and considerate. He car- master once told me to make his own name ries himself with a self-possessed dignity we smaller on the book cover so that more of all should aspire to. He is unbelievably well- by Lou Anders John’s art would show. (Trust me, this never spoken and articulate for one who makes his happens.) Finally, it’s why John has been living in a visual, non-verbal medium. He’s a nominated for the Hugo award the past five great guy. He’s a genius—even in a field rife years in a row, why he has won the Locus with geniuses. He’s an artist. Thank you for Award, two International Horror Guild having him as artist guest of honor at Awards, three Chesley Awards and the much- Con†Stellation. Be sure to make the most of The process goes something like this: I hire piece I am paying you for. And I say it’s done. coveted World Fantasy Award. It’s why he’s it—engage him on anything and everything John for a book cover. John reads book. We Trust me, John says. It’s not done. here right now. you want. Just don’t ask him if my next cov- talk it to death over several weeks. John I worry for the next week as he makes such I first met John Picacio in 2000, at the ers are really done, no matter how much I sends me early sketches (called roughs). panic-inducing statements as it still needs a World Fantasy Convention in Corpus insist to you that they are. We both know There may be several different concepts. We lot of work and such and such needed a com- Christi, Texas. He was just getting started what he’ll say. And he’ll be right. He’s the talk this over more. One of them doesn’t so plete redo. Promise me you saved the previ- then, as was I. The wonderful British fanta- artist. much as emerge as the direction—as point to ous version, I say. Finally, the final piece sist Graham Joyce put us together, or rather, it. John has breakthrough and comes back arrives. Graham came to me and said that there was a with a concept. I may or may not understand. It is even better. really talented new artist at the con that I abso- A 2009/2008/2007 Hugo Award nominee, 2008 Philip K. Dick John does painting. I ask to see it. John wor- We’ve done this on about 18 covers so far. lutely had to meet. Somehow we connected Award nominee, 2008/2006 Chesley Award winner/nominee, ries that it’s not done and doesn’t want me to We will be doing it as you read this, as he is on a level deeper than either of us initially and 2006 World Fantasy Award nominee, Lou Anders is the edi- see it until it is further along. John relents and currently working on three more. Around the torial director of Prometheus Books' science fiction and fantasy fathomed. We were both very driven individ- imprint Pyr, as well as the anthologies Fast Forward 2 (Pyr, shows it to me anyway, either because he time of this convention, I imagine we will be uals, both at the start of our careers, and we October 2008), Sideways in Crime (Solaris, June 2008), Fast can’t help himself or because my whining right around the it’s done/no it isn’t phase. fell into parallel tracks in that wonderful way Forward 1(Pyr, February 2007), FutureShocks (Roc, January wears him down. It’s brilliant. Absolutely You can ask either of us the question. John’s of only the most stimulating friendships, 2006), Projections: Science Fiction in Literature & Film perfect. Seeing it reinforces all my faith, con- will be the right answer. (MonkeyBrain, December 2004), Live Without a Net (Roc, where each serves to inspire, drive, and fuel 2003), and Outside the Box (Wildside Press, 2001). In 2000, vinces me it’s the only possible solution for Because John is the artist. He prefers the the other. Nine years later, and we are still he served as the Executive Editor of Bookface.com, and before the book in question, he is the only possible term illustrator, reserving “artist” for only running our career in tandem. We seem to that he worked as the Los Angeles Liaison for Titan Publishing artist capable of executing it. It’s a master- those truly vanguard individuals who are his have our best times, our lowest points, our Group. He is the author of The Making of Star Trek: First Con- piece. own inspiration. But an illustrator would busiest months, our greatest successes, all at tact (Titan Books, 1996), and has published over 500 articles in such magazines as The Believer, Publishers Weekly, Dreamwatch, It’s not done, John then says. It needs a lot have stopped when the client told him the the same time, oddly—but not longer sur- DeathRay, free inquiry, Star Trek Monthly, Star Wars Monthly, Bab- more work. work was finished. That he pushes himself prisingly—synced. This past August, he won ylon 5 Magazine, Sci Fi Universe, Doctor Who Magazine, and John, it’s perfect, I say. It’s good to go. beyond the requests of his client, past the his third Chesley for the cover of my latest Manga Max. His articles and stories have been translated into Trust me, John says. It’s not done. John, I point of what is more than and absolutely suf- Danish, Greek, German, Italian & French. anthology, a cover I art directed, and five min- Visit him online at http://louanders.blogspot.com/ am really happy with it, I say. It’s perfect, I ficient, and that he doesn’t stop until he has utes later, I won my first Chesley for Best Art say. You really don’t need to do anything satisfied his most demanding critic—himself Director. That’s how it works with us, and more to it, I say. We may fight. When this —is why people in this industry speak of “a why I can’t dream of a career without him. fails, I add something like, This here is the Picacio” in reference to his art. It’s why He’s a best friend and a brother, and your 8 9 You Don’t Know Jack… err, Gary Legend: count one point for each right answer 9 Mississippi Delta Science Fiction Association 21 You are Gary 10 Flyswatter, Rice Bag, MDSFA Button, Back 16-20 Good Buddy with Gary Scratcher, Rice grown in the MS Delta by Sue Thorn 11-15 Friend of Gary 11 Krispy Kreme doughnuts, little powdered sugar 6-10 Acquaintance of Gary doughnuts, unsweetened tea 0-5 You Don’t Know Gary, go introduce 12 Baen Beer Minions or Loyal Legion of Liquor Do you think you know our Fan Guest of Honor, Gary Shelton? yourself. He’ll be the tall, blue eyed Lackeys — they serve as bartenders at Baen Take this quiz and find out just how well… blond wearing a Hawaii shirt playing Parties and are known by both names Killer Cutthroat Spades. 13 U. S. Department of Agriculture Fill-in the Blank 12 To what Baen sub-group does Gary belong? Answers: 14 Wayne 1-4 Gary grew up in (1) city, (2) state, but 13 Who is Gary’s employer? 1 Scottsboro 15 Yes, one older brother now resides in (3) city, (4) state. 14 What is Gary’s middle name? 2 Alabama 16 Blue 5 What card game will you find Gary 15 Does Gary have any siblings? 3 Stoneville 17 Magnum Opus Con 2, 1987 playing at conventions? 16 What color are Gary’s eyes? 4 Mississippi 18 False, he loves them 6 Gary’s favorite non-alcoholic drink is… . 17 Gary’s first convention was… 5 Killer Cutthroat Spades 19 False, he always wears one at conventions 7-8 In what book did Gary die? (7) Author, True or False 6 Unsweetened ice tea 20 True, at LibertyCon (8) Title. 18 Gary would not be caught dead in a casino. 7 David Weber 21 Only Gary knows the real answer to this one 9 Gary started what Science Fiction 19 Gary would never wear a Hawaiian shirt. 8 Ashes of Victory organization? 20 Gary has won an award in a masquerade. 10 Name at least 2 of the items that Gary, Optional representing that organization, has given 21 When did Gary lose his… oh never mind, let’s away at conventions. not go there. 11 Gary can be bribed with certain foods, name one. View answer key and scoring legend to right. Gary “The Fish” Shelton By Tim Bolgeo

Gary Shelton was born in Scottsboro, Alabama, just a far flung areas on the south to find fannish company. That’s stones throw from Huntspatch! Most people only know why you will see him pop up at convention from Memphis to Gary from watching him playing Killer Cutthroat Spades at Chattanooga, St. Louis to New Orleans and numerous points the cons. But Gary also supports cons by his efforts. He has in between. been knocking around conventions for many years helping Gary typifies the idea that he might be easy, but he’s not out. He very seldom formally joins any organizations, but he cheap. But, there is an exception or two with him for this is always there helping out during setup and teardown at golden rule. His main exception to the rule would be if a cons. He typifies a lot of those unsung fans who are there lovely lady were to try to tempt him with little white pow- helping out who very seldom ever get any praise for their dered sugar donuts, he would be putty in her hands. efforts. In his real life, Gary is an Agronomist and works for Gary has been a friend of mine and traveling partner for the US Department of Agriculture in Stoneville, Missis- many years and there is one thing I can tell you without any sippi. I am always joking with him about “violating soy chance of being wrong. The con-committee made an excel- beans” in the heart of the Mississippi Delta. There are very lent choice when they selected Gary “The Fish” Shelton to few fans in the Stoneville area and Gary has to travel to the be your Fan Guest of Honor. 10 11 You Don’t Know Jack… err, Gary Legend: count one point for each right answer 9 Mississippi Delta Science Fiction Association 21 You are Gary 10 Flyswatter, Rice Bag, MDSFA Button, Back 16-20 Good Buddy with Gary Scratcher, Rice grown in the MS Delta by Sue Thorn 11-15 Friend of Gary 11 Krispy Kreme doughnuts, little powdered sugar 6-10 Acquaintance of Gary doughnuts, unsweetened tea 0-5 You Don’t Know Gary, go introduce 12 Baen Beer Minions or Loyal Legion of Liquor Do you think you know our Fan Guest of Honor, Gary Shelton? yourself. He’ll be the tall, blue eyed Lackeys — they serve as bartenders at Baen Take this quiz and find out just how well… blond wearing a Hawaii shirt playing Parties and are known by both names Killer Cutthroat Spades. 13 U. S. Department of Agriculture Fill-in the Blank 12 To what Baen sub-group does Gary belong? Answers: 14 Wayne 1-4 Gary grew up in (1) city, (2) state, but 13 Who is Gary’s employer? 1 Scottsboro 15 Yes, one older brother now resides in (3) city, (4) state. 14 What is Gary’s middle name? 2 Alabama 16 Blue 5 What card game will you find Gary 15 Does Gary have any siblings? 3 Stoneville 17 Magnum Opus Con 2, 1987 playing at conventions? 16 What color are Gary’s eyes? 4 Mississippi 18 False, he loves them 6 Gary’s favorite non-alcoholic drink is… . 17 Gary’s first convention was… 5 Killer Cutthroat Spades 19 False, he always wears one at conventions 7-8 In what book did Gary die? (7) Author, True or False 6 Unsweetened ice tea 20 True, at LibertyCon (8) Title. 18 Gary would not be caught dead in a casino. 7 David Weber 21 Only Gary knows the real answer to this one 9 Gary started what Science Fiction 19 Gary would never wear a Hawaiian shirt. 8 Ashes of Victory organization? 20 Gary has won an award in a masquerade. 10 Name at least 2 of the items that Gary, Optional representing that organization, has given 21 When did Gary lose his… oh never mind, let’s away at conventions. not go there. 11 Gary can be bribed with certain foods, name one. View answer key and scoring legend to right. Gary “The Fish” Shelton By Tim Bolgeo

Con Suite Con Suite 315 313 311 Prep 309 303 301 To Ice s l s e Patriot Room m e t o n 314 312 310 o 300 o Programming t i H R F

400-block rooms 310 Additional Programming upstairs

Lobby II Hotel Map Programming, T-Shirts, Not To Scale Schmoozing

To Pool

Apollo Room Galaxy Dealers Room Room Breakfast Bar and Gaming Hotel Guests Art Show Only, Please

12 Hotel 100- & 200- block rooms Lobby

Con Suite Con Suite 315 313 311 Prep 309 303 301 To Ice s l s e Patriot Room m e t o n 314 312 310 o 300 o Programming t i H R F

400-block rooms 310 Additional Programming upstairs

Lobby II Hotel Map Programming, T-Shirts, Not To Scale Schmoozing

To Pool

Apollo Room Galaxy Dealers Room Room Breakfast Bar and Gaming Hotel Guests Art Show Only, Please

12 Reversed or Negative Plate of Dumbbell Nebula

Vulpecula & the Dumbbell Nebula

The constellation of Vulpecula is unusual, because it did not belong originally to those created by Ptolemy—but to the works of Johannes Hevelius. Vulpecula is bordered by the constellations of Cygnus, Lyra, Hercules, Sagitta, Delphinus and Pegasus. It is best seen at culmination during the month of September. Since Vulpecula is considered a “modern” constellation, there is no mythology associated with it—although the stellar pattern was very visible to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Late in the 17th century, astronomer Johannes Hevelius created the constellation of Vulpecula when he was preparing his own set of star charts known as Firmamentum Sobiescianum. At the time, he named it “Vulpecula Cum Ansere” which translated literally to mean the little fox with the goose–and he illustrated it as a fox with a goose caught in its jaws. At the time, Hevelius did not consider it to be two separate constellations—yet it was later divided into two halves—Vulpecula and Anser “The Goose”. When star charts were once again consolidated, the constellations merged again to be known under the modern name assigned to it by the International Astronomical Union as Vulpecula, yet the primary star retains a reminder of its origin, being properly named Anser. Although its brightest stars are only 4th magnitude it is notable for the Dumbbell Nebula. Dumbbell Nebula [M27] Right Ascension: 19:59.6 (h:m) Declination: +22:43 (deg:m) Distance: 1.25 (kly) Visual Brightness: 7.4 (mag) Apparent Dimension: 8.0×5.7 (arc min) NGC 6853

As chance would have it, we happen to be looking at this planetary nebula from the viewpoint of its equatorial plane. Hanging out around 1200 light years from our solar system, this dying star is ejecting a shell of hot gas into space for about the last 48,000 years. The star responsible is an extremely hot blueish subdwarf dwarf—which emits primarily highly energetic radiation of the non- visible part of the electro-magnetic spectrum, which is absorbed by exciting the nebula’s gas, and re-emitted by the nebula. What’s that spell? Try the forbidden zone of doubly ionized oxygen… one spectral line only, in the green light at 5007 Angstroms! That’s why Messier 27 glows like a green apple core. So where did Messier 27 get its famous moniker? Try Sir John Herschel, who wrote: “A most extraordinary object; very bright; an unresolved nebula, shaped something like an hour-glass, filled into an oval outline with a much less dense nebulosity. The central mass may be compared to a vertebra or a dumb-bell. The southern head is denser than the northern. One or two stars seen in it.”

Written by Tammy Plotner; Credits to Universe Today, visit them for more fun information: http://www.universetoday.com/guide-to-space/constellations/vulpecula/ http://www.universetoday.com/guide-to-space/messier-objects/messier-27/ and for some nice pictures of nebulae, this gallery: Http://www.universetoday.com/2008/03/10/planets-might-actually-shape-planetary-nebulae-plus-a-gallery/

Back cover courtesy of Mike Cothran & Universe Today; Illustration from Atlas Coelestis of John Flamsteed, published 1729.