Science Fiction/San Francisco

Issue 109 Editor-in-Chief: Jean Martin September 29, 2010 Editor: España Sheriff email: [email protected] Compositor: Tom Becker

Contents Editorial...... Jean Martin...... 2 Dreams of the City...... España Sheriff...... 4 A Comic-Con Vacation...... Christopher Erickson...... Photos by Christopher Erickson...... 6 The Raygun Gothic Rocketship Lands in San Francisco...... JohnnyAbsinthe...... Photos by JohnnyAbsinthe...... 15 On Set With Castle...... Patricia M. Yulo...... Photos by Patricia M. Yulo...... 17 w00tstock...... España Sheriff...... Photos by John O’Halloran...... 21 Oui, Au Contraire!...... Tom Becker...... Photos by Tom Becker...... 24 Pacificon 2010...... William La Cross...... Photos by William La Cross...... 38 Dragon*Con 2010...... Photos by Noelle Paduan...... 41 The Hugos 2010...... Chris Garcia...... 45 Letters of Comment...... Jean Martin...... 49 BASFA Minutes: Meetings 1046-51...... 52 Bay Area Fannish Calendar...... España Sheriff...... Photo by Lucy Huntzinger...... 59

Art Credits Cover Alamo Square’s Painted Ladies by Lucy Huntzinger

Science Fiction/San Francisco is the monthly news zine for the San Francisco Bay Area. All issues can be found at www.efanzines.com. Except as noted, all articles and photos are copyright 2010 by the original creators. Used with permission.

1 Editorial

By Jean Martin as well as obtaining articles. Which, I just love photos. One non-fandom event Editor-in-Chief guess, goes with my title as Editor-in- I’m going to soon is an all-day Chief anyway. Besides, my writing has scrapbooking tea party at a tea place in This issue is a pretty big one with been featured heavily in most of our 100 San Mateo called Sweeteas (owned by a several reviews of out-of-town + issues over the past fives years. It’s lovely lady named Julita whom I know conventions that have happened over the good to take a break. And I do enjoy from my old Oracle days). summer, which is the time when a lot of editing and getting people to write for us I did go to a lot of fannish events people travel anyway. I suppose it would as well. As I’ve said before, it adds to with my boyfriend this summer. He’s make a nice vacation to go to a the variety to our zine with different actually been excited about writing convention outside of the Bay Area. I’d perspectives and experiences from other about some of these, though, so that only done this once to go to Comic-Con people. I don’t want the zine to be just takes some of the writing off of my in 2005. But I haven’t done this since all about me. plate. I knew he liked taking photos but I then because Comic-Con is too huge and Still, I want to keep writing for SF/ didn’t know he liked to write too. And chaotic for me and July has always been SF and I have a backlog of events that I he’s quite good at both. a busy time for me at work. And in my would like to write about. They may be So we have his Comic-Con (San current job, I can’t even take days off in old news but I think they’d still be Diego) report in this issue, which is a July. I’d mentioned in past Editorials interesting. And I’d promised the more comprehensive review than the that I was hoping to go to WorldCon in organizers of some of these events that I more specific coverage from Cordelia Melbourne, Australia, but that didn’t pan would do so. But with so much writing Willis and Thad Gann that we had in our out. at my day job (i.e., tired brain and eyes), last issue. There’s also Chris Garcia’s Since I wasn’t able to go anywhere and these events starting to fade from analysis of the Hugo Awards given out this summer and I can’t be everywhere, my memory, it’ll be quite a challenge. at WorldCon (Australia), Tom Becker’s it’s great that we have such willing and Thank goodness for photos. That’s why I coverage of Au Contraire! (New talented contributors that have stepped take lots of photos, which serve as a Zealand), photos of incredible costumes up to the fore. Since we don’t have a visual journal of things I’ve done and at Dragon*Con (Atlanta) by Noelle proofreader anymore, my role in SF/SF been to. And it makes it easier to write Paduan (I really should go to so far this year has been mostly editing about events after the fact. And well, I Dragon*Con one of these days), and Pat

2 Yulo’s fun adventure as an extra on the only rained a little in the Bay Area this Orlando. I can’t wait for a real vacation! set of the TV show Castle (L.A.). summer but we haven’t really had much I haven’t gone outside the Bay Area We’ve got local coverage too with sunny weather either. I can only since Gallifrey One, a Doctor Who William La Cross’s writeup on Pacificon remember two weekends when it was convention, in February of last year. And (Santa Clara), a gaming convention; warm enough to use the pool at my that was only in nearby L.A. España Sheriff’s review of w00tstock apartment complex. I hope we do get a Hope everyone’s summer has been a (San Francisco), a nerd-dom variety bit of an Indian Summer in October. blast. It’s the first day of autumn as I show; and a news flash and photos by Then I’m off to Florida for my write this, and now our thoughts are all JohnnyAbsinthe on the unveiling of the somewhat fannish vacation to the probably shifting toward Halloween and Raygun Gothic Rocketship art Kennedy Space Center for the second to Thanksgiving. I can’t wait for these two installation (San Francisco). the last space shuttle launch (fingers holidays as well. So yes, this issue is more packed than crossed that it doesn’t get postponed usual. When it rains it pours! Well, it again), Disneyworld and Universal

3 Dreams of the City

By España Sheriff same reason I am writing it up for this Gate Park. So of course I try to calculate Editor column… it’s set in San Francisco. The which park entrance and what bus, but Bay Area has a long tradition of both it’s all so vague that it’s hard to maintain Seanan McGuire is a local author and noir and fantasy fiction, so the a sense of place. Which is a shame fan, she chaired Baycon in 2003 and combination would seem to have quite a really, since even when I am reading returned as Toastmistress in 2007. She’s bit of potential. Nine Tail Fox, reviewed about cities I am unfamiliar with, the also well known in filk circles and was in this column in SF/SF #123, made me unique nomenclature and geography of the Filk guest of honor at the combined very happy; and I was looking forward places often helps ground stories, and Westercon/ConChord earlier this year. to what an author who actually lives large parts of modern SF worldbuilding She also just won the Campbell Award here could do with the place. is based on faking up the sort of for best new writer last month. As it turns out, the world and history background that a real world setting For all these reasons, and since there of the Fairy seem to have a lot of provides for free. has been considerable buzz around it, I thought put into it; and I suspect the The main exception, as mentioned is was looking forward to reading her mythology will become richer and Golden Gate Park, or more specifically debut novel, Rosemary and Rue, but deeper as the series continues. But the the Japanese Tea Garden. Several major honestly it didn’t really do much for me. actual physical location seems to get plot developments happen within or near Part of it is simply the genre, I’m not short shrift. The cold and fog get their the Tea Gardens. It’s a good choice, a the biggest Urban Fantasy series fan. I obligatory nod, of course, but except for naturally otherwordly spot anyway. And enjoy some variations on it, like the Golden Gate Park, there are hardly any I liked the description of the Park as a Inspector Chen books or even Justina streets, neighborhoods or landmarks series of fiefdoms. Hopefully to be Robson’s Keeping it Real. But mentioned. Likewise our protagonist, described in greater detail in later books specifically, the tough as nails female October “Toby” Daye gets on a generic of the continuing series. However, I was detective (or cop, or bounty hunter) who San Francisco cab, rides a generic San a little surprised that the Rose Garden is also a fairy (or vampire, werewolf, Francisco bus and some of the action didn’t get a mention, given how roses etc.) and awesome (but damaged) takes place at the San Francisco feature elsewhere in the book and that mostly leaves me cold. Museum of Art. She drives from the Bay Toby passes right by them at least once, The other reason I was looking Bridge down a unnamed one way street, if I am reading the action correctly. forward to Rosemary and Rue is the boards the bus and ends up at Golden

4 Still, the world McGuire creates in Artificial Light, with two more to be synopsis tells me that the protagonists the book is probably worth exploring published next year: Late Eclipses in are a brother and sister team of bloggers further, and I may eventually pick up the March and The Brightest Fell in living in Berkeley. Even better, the rest of the series, although that might September. setting is near future post-zombie involve some heavy lifting if she Incredibly she has also managed to apocalypse, and you know I love me continues putting them out at the start a whole other series at the same some zombies, so I think the fairies may incredible pace she has maintained so time, under the pen name Mira Grant, have to wait a bit. You can look forward far. Rosemary & Rue came out just last and the first book in that series, Feed, to a writeup of Feed in the next few year and already there are two follow has been getting a lot of good press and months instead. ups: A Local Habitation and An word of mouth as well. A peek at the

5 A Comic-Con Vacation

By Christopher Erickson both had to leave late in the evening drove off. I drove down from San Jose Staff Writer around 8:00 p.m. since we both had to give here some rest as she had just work circumstances where we could not gotten off of work about an hour before. Comic-Con is always a fun time of get Wednesday as a travel day. It worked We spent the first three hours or so year for me because it lets me travel a out in my favor since I could spend reminiscing and catching up, as well as bit, though it is always more of a road some time with Jean before I left. When dishing on our respective love lives and trip. Comic-Con has also been a great Elena met me at my place, I gave her a how we were both happy that we found for me because I have had major quick tour around my studio apartment very special people. The rest of the drive bonding time with my best friend (the two minute grand tour as I call it) was our road trip tradition of playing thrown in with the road trip. Elena and I and we packed my things in her car and The Mamas and the Papas and various

The Seventh Doctor with Tony Lee on the Right by Christopher Erickson Elena in True Blood Costume by Christopher Erickson

6 other tunes. Elena also shared with me was grateful for small favors as I drove the soundtrack to Repo! The Genetic the entire way and had been up since Opera and the Buffy The Vampire Slayer about 5:00 a.m. the previous day. We musical episode “Once More With both managed to get into our rooms Feeling” to get me into a geektastic without further delay and I promptly mood. introduced myself to my roommates and The trip was somewhat uneventful then went to bed. until somewhere in Southern California I promptly woke up the next day after Anaheim but before San Diego. (Thursday, Day 1), got up and got all Interstate 5 was closed in the nice and dressed. The big things on my southbound direction for all lanes due to agenda were the Doctor Who cosplay construction. This significantly slowed gathering for the showing of the finale us down as it was around 11:00 p.m. or of Series 5 of Doctor Who and the so and we had to detour onto city streets. Charlaine Harris panel since I read the The detour took us to another highway Sookie Stackhouse mysteries that True that connected back up to I-5 but the exit Blood is based on. After finally getting was poorly marked and we continued on dressed as the Third Doctor and testing for a few minutes before we decided to my new camera, I made the now follow the other drivers back to the exit familiar walk to the Fashion Valley that everyone else was taking. Island light rail station with Elena. She Superman, Wonder Woman and the Flash We arrived at the hotel about 1:30 was dressed as a serving waitress/ by Christopher Erickson a.m. and tried to check in. We were both werewolf at Merlotte’s Bar from True part of a co-op rooming situation that a Blood. The train ride was the usual to get recognized by several people friend of ours runs to keep costs down surrealistic trip I have come to expect before even stepping into the Sails and the person that organizes the co-op with people wearing T-shirts I normally Pavilion. usually arranges to make things smooth only see in my own wardrobe on a day- Most of the time spent before the for those arriving late. This was the to-day basis and other recognizable Charlaine Harris panel was taking second year in a row that we had late characters. This year was no exception photos and scoping out the dealer’s check-in problems as there were no keys as Marla Singer from Fight Club and room since I was not able to go to left for us at the lobby. I was lucky Juno were sitting side-by-side on the car. preview night and get the lay of the land. enough that my roommates were still up The day started off grand as I got my The dealer’s room was packed even on at the time that they could let me in. I ticket without any hassles and managed the first day and I had a hard time

7 navigating to anything other than some since the TV show emphasizes certain convention center and continued to of the back aisles to get around. characters that are rather minor in her collect photos and joined the Doctor The Charlaine Harris panel was well books and that she had no problems with Who cosplay meetup. Most of the attended and drew lots of fans. Charlaine the adaptation. I even got one of my Doctors and companions were the 11th Harris was presented with the Inkpot questions answered. Doctor and Amy Pond, but there were Award at the panel for her contributions After the panel, I ventured into the several classic Doctors and companions, to fantasy fiction. She mostly answered Gaslamp District to grab a meal from a TARDIS, and a Steampunk version of questions at the panel about her books Ralph’s Grocery since they have a a Dalek and a Cyberpunk version of the and her thoughts on the adaptation of the wonderful deli section. The amount of Cybermen as well. It was the tradition TV show. She presented the argument effort put into providing flavor outside that I usually get involved in of getting that they are completely different works of Comic-Con was incredible. Beyond into a large gathering of similar the usual viral campaigns for upcoming cosplayers and having something of a movies, there were several events staged paparazzi experience. in the Gaslamp District including an After the cosplay group I wandered outside bar for True Blood, an ice-cream for a bit and then decided to go back to truck handing out free Rocket popsicles, the hotel to get some rest and food as I Adult Swim giving out free pizza, a was running on a less-than-ideal amount series of storefronts hosting comic book of sleep. On the way back to the station art on their windows, the return of Cafe across from the convention center, I Diem from SyFy, a blood drive giving noticed that the station signs had been away True Blood merchandise, and a turned into Klingon language signs. The parade of geek-inspired cars including a signs were a welcome sight for any Star recreation of KITT from Knight Rider Trek fan. I boarded the train and went that I didn’t even realize what it was home to get dinner and rest. until it turned the corner. The amount of The second day, Friday, was a get- events and city flavor was amazing to up-somewhat-late day for me. It was see, but may have been just a shameless also the debut of my Hush costume that ploy to keep Comic-Con in San Diego in I actually constructed with some the coming years. assistance from Cordelia Willis. I did the After getting something to eat and red trim hand sewing on the shirt and grabbing more photos in the Gaslamp pretty much scrounged up other things The Third Doctor with the Brigadier District, I wandered back into the to complete the costume. My plan for by Christopher Erickson

8 the day was to get photos with the DC panel that she was running late for and Universe characters, especially the hoped to get into it since she had a Batman characters. volunteer badge. We eventually got to I hopped on the train again and sat the convention and I headed out trying across from a woman who did a great to get photos with every Batman villain version of Sally from The Nightmare and hero I could find. I managed to get a Before Christmas. Since we were taking few photos early with Batman just by the regular train instead of the special hanging out at the DC booth as well as a events one, we had some time on our couple of Green Lanterns. hands to chat and take some photos as I then coordinated with Elena to meet well. She was also trying to make it to a up and hang out for a bit. It was interesting since I couldn’t find her for a while as we were texting back and forth. I then found a really cool female version of Whiplash based on the Iron Man 2 movie. I was thinking that Elena would enjoy it immensely if I could take a photo. The female Whiplash then said “Hi Chris” and I was shocked to figure out that it was Elena. I didn’t recognize Classic Battlestar Galactica uniforms her standing about 10 feet away from me by Christopher Erickson and I was expecting her to be in her Merlotte’s waitress outfit. We hung to wander through some of the booths as around the bathroom area near Ballroom well as take photos. 20 for a bit to relax and spent a good By this time I was eventually portion of the time there. I was also able noticing that there was a resurgence of to grab a bunch of pictures of people Batman characters due to the popularity walking by in costume. Elena and I even of the “Batman: Arkham Asylum” video struck up a conversation with another game as well as several Green Lanterns person there as well. I eventually made with the coming release of the new my way back down to the dealer’s room movie. G.I. Joe was also popular again this year with more characters in Conan by Christopher Erickson

9 attendance besides the usual of Scarlett, and a Mario carrying around a sign Snake Eyes, Cobra Commander and the reading “Thank you Mario, but our Baroness. The Tim Burton version Alice Princess is in another castle!” I also ran in Wonderland characters were very into a mother and daughter who were popular as well. doing the Lynda Carter and Debra We went back down and journeyed Winger versions of Wonder Woman and the floor and I got to geek out over some Wonder Girl from the 1970s show. I sat really cool costumes including Sgt. down and had lunch with them and had Slaughter from G.I. Joe and a George a nice relaxing conversation about Reeves Superman done in black and Wonder Woman and where we were white. I then decided to go home early to from originally. get some rest and grabbed a few extra I then went to the fan club level that I photos on the way back to the hotel. discovered when I went to pick up my Saturday was a bit of a solo day for VIP ticket for the Masquerade. I was to me as I got up a bit early and dressed in film the Viva Las Villains skit that my Seventh Doctor costume. The train Cordelia Willis put together. I picked up ride was exciting as always since I was the video camera and watched them able to geek out over a Justice League practice for a bit. I then wandered group that included the Blue Beetle and around the fan club tables. Booster Gold. We conversed on the train Prince Zuko and Toph from Avatar-The Last I then tried to make my way to the and I was able to take pictures with the Airbender by Christopher Erickson Hilton Hotel across from the convention group. I wandered the dealer room floor center for the Sanctuary panel. The and continued to take pictures until I the game and can proudly say that I beat convention has gotten so large that they drifted over to the Just Dance 2 booth. I out the little girl and the zombie. have expanded to the hotels across the joined a group that included a fairy, a After the dancing game, I wandered street to hold other panels as well as host little girl and a zombie. Since I was around taking photos and taking the anime screenings, film festivals, player 1, I got to choose the song and I advantage of the crossover possibilities game tournaments and fan group chose “The Power” by Snap. It must throughout the convention center. Some meetings. I got stopped to take pictures have been interesting to see the of the more interesting costumes with a fem Fifth Doctor and a Dalek and combination of a fey, a zombie and a including Gizmo from Gremlins, ended up getting into the panel line late. Time Lord with an umbrella dancing to Aquaman coming from the BP oil spill, I didn’t make it to the panel, but I ran an early 90s hit song. I placed second in Lady Gaga, Jack from Jack In The Box into a woman dressed as a TARDIS that

10 she constructed out of cardboard. I stood characters and a few TV crews relax after our disappointment at missing in line with her while she was waiting surrounding him. The group paused right our photo op of Stan Lee. I went to get for The Guild panel. During that time, in front of us and we tried to get a photo the drinks and ended up playing around we had our picture taken by a Storm of Stan Lee in the crowd. Elena with a Kirk and McCoy from the new Trooper biker from Endor, Captain Kirk positioned herself to get the shot and I Star Trek movie. Elena and I than and several passersby. had a clear path to a good picture when a relaxed in one of the hallway nooks I then made my way back to the woman shot her arms up after Elena said when we got news from a text message convention center and got together with “I have the shot.” Neither of us got a about a stabbing at the convention. The Elena to hang out and just enjoy the photo when that happened. details were somewhat sketchy at that costumes. We ended up over by We made our way out to get point but an argument ensued in Ballroom 20 and just stood there for a something to drink from Starbucks and Ballroom 20 over a saved seat. One while. We even both geeked out when a person had been sitting in the hall all woman dressed as vampire Willow from day for a specific panel and got into an Buffy the Vampire Slayer walked by. We argument with a person who was upset were both stunned because we had that other people were not able to get talked about the lack of Buffy cosplayers into the panel they wanted to attend. a bit earlier. Elena and I then went to One person pulled out a pen and stabbed grab some food at the fan booth level the other one in the temple near the eye. that I discovered that day as it was a nice The victim started to bleed and people quiet area to sit and relax in. We were nearby detained the perpetrator. The able to see some cool costumes perpetrator was taken out and arrested including Spiral from X-Men and a by the San Diego Police. Elena and I plushie version of Luke Skywalker and talked about possible consequences that Yoda from the Empire Strikes Back the convention would have to implement training scene. We then explored all of such as not allowing any props in the tables at that level. because of the stabbing since we were We then made our way back down to under the impression that the stabbing the dealer room to explore it some more was due to a pocket knife, the bad press and get more photos. We were standing for the convention since there was around when a large group was already a question about it remaining in approaching and none other than Stan San Diego, and the hassle of trying to Lee was walking by with several Star Trek Mirror Universe get into the panels because of people by Christopher Erickson

11 in shows popular with the Comic-Con Venom, a Tron character, Lady Gaga, crowd. The Flash, Batman, a Merlotte’s waitress We then grabbed something to eat and The Doctor. Elena and I left early to and went our separate ways since she get back to the hotel so we didn’t miss was waiting in line to see the the tram. The tram was operating late to Masquerade simulcast in the Sails take people back to their hotels during Pavilion and I had to get in line for the the later events past midnight such as the VIP area in Ballroom 20. I got a good masquerade and the other panels. view of the entire masquerade due to my Day 4 on Sunday was a lazy and VIP pass. The entries were rather short day. I got up and packed, showered inventive including a Mass Effect 2 and then went back to bed. I eventually entry, a clever BioShock 2 entry, a time travelers mixup with Doctor Who, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, Back to the Future and Quantum Leap characters, a number of Batman entries and the Viva Las Villains entry. I wasn’t exactly sure when Cordelia’s group was going to be on, so I was running low on Professor and Indiana Jones battery power by the time the awards by Christopher Erickson came around. I had to do some conservation but managed to capture doing the exact same thing that caused them getting the Best in Show trophy the argument. We compared it to paying award. After the show, I caught the to window shop. We speculated that the group during their photo session and cause of this is the fact that there are grabbed a few pictures myself. I then several panels that are really only joined Elena for the dance that was tangentially connected to the geek crowd happening in the Sail Pavilion. There like Sons of Anarchy and the Showtime was a snack stand and a couple of bars shows (Weeds, Californication, etc.) with a few beers and a some hard liquor since they feature actors that have been for sale, a DJ and several people dancing in costume including a Spider-Man and Kick Ass, Hit Girl and Big Daddy by Christopher Erickson

12 noticed a fake rock. We picked it up and I got my comics signed at the IDW examined it. The rock had writing on it booth by Tony Lee and then made my and then we realized that it was the rock way up to join Elena for the line for the that the couple had lost. We caught up to last event, the Buffy musical sing-along. them and gave it back to them and they We joined in the singing with Chris, were very excited. whom Elena met in the line while Elena and I went into the hall and waiting. After the sing-along, we hung walked around the dealer’s room for a out and grabbed a few more pictures and while and stopped at a couple of booths. saw people cosplaying the stabbing We then made our way up to the Sails incident the previous day. On the way Pavilion where another Doctor Who out, I was able to grab those last few cosplay meetup was scheduled. There photos of really cool costumes and the were several more people that showed Black Beauty from The Green Hornet up after I mentioned it to people I ran movie near the tram stop. into and we were even joined by John There was also a demonstration/ Levene (Sgt. Benton) who was signing protest of sorts with a Captain America autographs in the area. Elena and I split with an animal defiling a Mickey Mouse up as I was making my way down to the doll to try to raise awareness about IDW booth to get my Doctor Who Comic-Con’s contract with the San Tron Lady by Christopher Erickson comics signed by Tony Lee. On the way Diego Convention Center expiring in a I took a few more photographs and ran few years. The speculation is that the got up and dressed again as the Seventh into a fully functioning Kermit the Frog convention may move to Las Vegas, Los Doctor. Elena and I then packed up the as the on the spot news reporter. I started Angeles or Anaheim. San Diego has car and headed on down to the tram. We the music alert and said “we now go to been the home of the convention since stopped and talked to a couple dressed Kermit the Frog with another fast its inception, but comments I have seen as Prince Zuko and Toph from Avatar: breaking news story.” Kermit responded online by San Diego columnists say that The Last Airbender. They told us about a by saying “Hi ho, Kermit the Frog here. the convention should move on since papier-mâché rock that they had lost that Comic-Con had to be canceled due to there are other businesses and was signed by some of the people who low attendance and the only people here conventions that bring in more money. worked on the show. We rode the train (Kermit looking me up and down) are Given that the convention center will be over and started to walk to the weirdos.” This is the second straight expanding, the local hotels were convention hall when Elena and I year I have been dissed by a puppet. allowing use of their space for events,

13 and that the tram system was running dollars. Los Angeles would be a terrible late trains specifically for the choice as traffic is terrible even on the convention, the city leaders are trying to weekends, all the hotels are spread out, make every effort to keep Comic-Con in there is no central location for an event San Diego. My thinking is that San of this size and diversity for hotels and Diego is the perfect place to host it as eateries, the public transit system is the summer weather is warm but not unreliable and almost non-existent, and extreme, there are plenty of public the city weather is both hot and muggy transit options for those who stay at during the summer. hotels farther away from the convention We then made our way back to the center, and most of the eating hotel to get Elena’s car. We finally hit establishments are conveniently located the road after saying goodbye to our near the convention center including a friends and then started our drive to the 24-hour grocery store. Las Vegas would Bay Area. Elena drove while I was have the same conditions as San Diego, riding shotgun and we continued our except for the summer weather being road trip traditions by playing ABBA on extreme and being a drawback for all of the way back and getting lost trying to the costumers, and also being farther get back on the freeway after missing away for the Hollywood studios than the switchback in the L.A. freeway San Diego. Anaheim has a decent system for I-5. As we passed through Kermit the Frog by Christopher Erickson convention center, but I am not familiar Anaheim, we caught the fireworks going with their public transit system and the off at Disneyland, which was a rather hotels would have competition with poignant ending to Comic-Con. Disneyland for the summer tourist

14 The Raygun Gothic Rocketship Lands in San Francisco

Well, the good ship is back and has doors are sealed shut to the general landed at the Port of San Francisco, and public. In August, the Mayor of San will remain at Pier 14 Tidal Plaza at the Francisco, Gavin Newsom, welcomed the 40-foot ship along with the artists who created this project, Sean Orlando (who also created the Steam Punk Tree House), Nathaniel Taylor and David

by JohnnyAbsinthe By JohnnyAbsinthe Contributing Writer and Photographer

by JohnnyAbsinthe A few months ago the Raygun Gothic Rocketship was taking passengers at the Embarcadero for 14 months as a Maker Faire in San Mateo and blasting temporary exhibit. This time, though, we off to places unknown in the universe. will not be able to look inside—the by JohnnyAbsinthe

15 Shulman. Apparently, the ship has been grounded by its captain due to some faulty wiring and will not be space- worthy until October 2011. Actually, it’s the latest in a series of temporary public art exhibitions sponsored by the Black Rock Arts Foundation to enliven and activate public spaces. In the meantime, please come by and marvel at the beauty of this retro-futuristic rocket ship while it’s here. I think the Embarcadero is the best place for displaying an idea of futuristic space travel, along the waterfront and piers, tying it with the ships that we used to and still travel our world. For more information, go to: www.raygungothicrocket.com

by JohnnyAbsinthe

16 On Set With Castle The adventures of a newbie extra on set of the hit ABC show

By Patricia M. Yulo Next step: wardrobe approval. My costume was approved with a cursory What would you do if someone glance and a two thumbs up. I wore two posted this on Facebook: “Castle is skirts that I had made—one from red tag looking for Steampunk extras. Mail a fabric from Joanns and the other from an picture of you in costume to this email old bedsheet from Goodwill. I wore a address…?” basic brown corset from Fredericks of Of course I sent a picture! There was Hollywood that I had embellished with over a week of waiting for a reply, with paint and embroidered with beads and the general feeling that it was all for tiny watch gears. Nestled in my naught. Then one day, I’m fiddling with upholstery holster, specially ordered my iPhone, and there it was–an email from Blue Moon Designs, were my saying that I’m in and that I need to be “ekin” guns, two squirt guns I had in L.A. for the shoot in a week’s time! painted with husband’s Warhammer What’s there to think about? Pack my paints. The goggles were from eBay, bags, gas up the car and off I go. The bought before I knew any better. Other drive down to L.A. was uneventful. The details, like the bustle and hat piece, beauty of long car rides by yourself is were made from other projects’ that no one cares how badly or loudly leftovers. you sing along to “A Brand New Day.” Pat in her Steampunk finery With the costume approved, the real Now I’ve never been an extra before, by Pat M. Yulo meat of the day was to begin. We headed so the process was new and exciting to to the holding cell, where hair and me. Until I realized that on August 23rd, goodies. The set was located in an makeup were housed. This was to be our I had to be up at 4:00 a.m. so I could be industrial warehouse often rented by new home for the next 15 hours. For fully costumed and on the lot by 6:00 studios for its versatility. Contrary to every five minutes on set, you get to be a.m. Thank god for craft services (which popular belief, it was not filmed at the in the holding cell for an hour. Being the industry calls “crafty”) and their Edison, a local L.A. haunt. there afforded a lot of the regular burning hot coffee and warm egg

17 professional SAG extras, who also so Carpenter of Light Speed Imports happen to be heavily into Steampunk. (formerly Corellian imports) provided The League of S.T.E.A.M., an L.A. an array of leather accessories, ranging based organization of inventors and from belts, arm armor and gun holsters. scientists, had cast members on set. Pieces from Pendragon Costumes was Some of the characters really stood scattered amongst all the different out from the crowd. Shawn Crosby, costumes. known for his H-Wing Carfighter, was There was a palatable disparity dressed as a Steampunk Ghostbuster between the real Steampunk extras and outfit, complete with a light-up proton the skinny, young, good-looking pack. Someone else was dressed as Doc counterparts who were intrigued to find Emmett Brown’s great, great out what the genre was called. The grandfather, with a flux capacitor nicely Steampunk extras ran the gamut of stored in a cabinet-cum-backpack. Tadao humanity and an instant camaraderie Tomomatsu, our most recent BayCon was born out of a common love of toastmaster, was dressed in traditional corsets, bustles and gadgets. Japanese robes, brandishing about four For those of you who don’t watch very large weapons, the most famous of Castle, it is a crime procedural drama which was named “Bertha.” starring our favorite Captain Hammer Doc Emmett Brown with his flux capacitor Wardrobe also did a magnificent job from Dr. Horrible, Nathan Fillion. He by Pat M. Yulo putting outfits together from past films. stars as Rick Castle, a crime writer who Bryan Forrest was lucky enough to wear partners up with New York cop Kate Steampunkers time to compare and a peach pinstriped suit from the 1951 Beckett (actress Stana Katic) to solve admire their costumes and wares. film Showboat. One woman wore a heinous murders. Castle also uses Needless to say all the extras who beige, red-striped canvas dress from the Beckett as inspiration for a new line of were in their own Steampunk costumes 1890s. You could see where the wear novels (which creepily enough are shared a lot of cross-cultural history. and tear on the dress was, with careful available on Amazon). Everyone had either participated in Ren hand-stitching keeping it up in places. The show usually features a large Faire, Dickens Fair or SCA at one point Her necklace was a piece from the collection of people in parties, events or in time or another. Some of them were House of Wormwood. fashion shows. This time around, it vendors, who sell their wares at A lot of vendors of Steampunk wares hosted an imaginary Steampunk club conventions or online. Others were were also represented. Brayton and Amy called The Gaslamp. The set crew did an

18 amazing job of creating three rooms interact with me). I did catch him to spend more time on set. If it was filled with Victoriana and moving playing video games on his phone in possible for us to hug it, miniaturize it machinery, including a time machine between takes. Stana, on the other hard, and keep it in our pockets, we would and a skeleton piloting a bicycle/ was really friendly and seemed to make have done so. helicopter contraption. Extras were a point of commenting on all the props Season 3, Episode 4: “Punked” of given cocktails full of fake Absinthe and and goodies that people were wearing. Castle airs on October 11 at 10:00 pm Scotch. One of the guest stars had the She even complimented me on my guns! on ABC. luck of riding a decked out penny I got to tell her how much I loved the farthing. red jackets that she wore in all the As extras, our job was not hard at episodes. I was dying to ask wardrobe all–pretend you’re having fun in the what the symbolism of it meant! environment. The very first time they My one run in with Nathan happened called “Action,” we all tried to crane our in the late afternoon. Extras were necks and catch a glimpse of the real allowed to go backstage and pick up Malcolm Reynolds from Firefly. To our some sodas. Nathan was leaning on the initial disappointment, his stand-in cooler and we very calmly asked him to walked through for the first three tests. move. He smiled, said something to my When Nathan finally walked on set, we compatriot and stepped away. We very, could not stop grinning. The excitement very slowly searched for just the right was palpable and obviously captured on sodas. screen. I cannot remember exactly how many We were not given any opportunities times I was chosen to be in the scene, to take pictures with any of the actors. but I felt like I was on there a lot. I know However, we did take a lot of photos of for certain that at the end, when they ran the set. Later on in the day, we were after the culprit, they ran right by me warned that “officially” we were not and I needed to protect my absinthe. So I allowed to take photos but that know I’ll be in at least one scene! “unofficially” they acknowledged that it We did not end filming until 9:30 was great for publicity. p.m., at which point in time some On set, Nathan did not interact with a women had been in corsets for over 15 lot of the extras (at least he didn’t hours. That did not stop us from wanting The Time Machine on Set by Pat M. Yulo

19 Vendors and Other Cool Things Mentioned in the Article

Blue Moon Designs – handy-dandy pocket belts to keep all your stuff on you Katherine Becvar www.blue-moon-designs.com

H-Wing Carfighter – decked out Honda Del Rio Shawn Crosby www.h-wing.com

House of Wormwood – precious millinery pieces Wilamina Wormwood www.houseofwormwood.com

League of S.T.E.A.M. – L.A.-based Steampunk organization www.leagueofsteam.com Behind the Scenes on Set by Pat M. Yulo Light Speed Imports – purveyors of intergalactic finery Brayton and Amy Carpenter www.corellianimports.com

Pendragon Costumes www.pendragoncostumes.com

20 w00tstock

By España Sheriff us to do this?” And as it turns out, the funny, the loose and cheerful vibe and Editor answer was “oh, hell yes!” (Note: This audience participation created a story is not true) wonderful energy. w00tstock can best be described as a Well, in some circles “let’s put on a So, when they announced the new list variety show for nerds. The official show!” is a punchline, but in nerd-dom of cities for 201,0 and San Francisco tagline is “3 hours of geeks+music,” that is how Worldcon bids, and was on the list, I knew I’d be going which is fair enough, but it doesn’t begin apparently massively successful touring back. This time, the show was at the to cover what you actually get to see on variety acts, are born. I was at show Great American Music Hall, which seats stage. 1.0.1 in San Francisco at the Swedish at least a hundred more people than the It is the brain child of Wil Wheaton, American Hall in November of 2009 previous venue and has table service. Adam Savage and the musical duo Paul and had a fantastic time. Aside from the Beyond that, The Hall is a beautiful old & Storm. Wheaton is probably still best fact that everyone involved is very building, and from the balcony we had a known as Wesley Crusher from Star pretty nice view of the stage—although Trek: The Next Generation, but has since the speakers unfortunately blocked a become better known as a gamer and decent chunk of the monitor. I had general geek about town. Adam Savage forgotten how many videos and visual is a local guy, of course, and best known aids the show uses. to fans for blowing shit up as the more The founding members were all verbose half of the Mythbusters team. there, of course. Paul & Storm opened, Paul & Storm have been entertaining mostly playing songs I already knew, but nerds since they were part of Da Vinci’s that simply meant that this time I was Notebook and continue the tradition of able to sing along where appropriate. music that makes you laugh and groan Wil Wheaton read from his books, “The simultaneously. Happiest Years of My Life,” a charming Not so very long ago, these lovely story of his first Rocky Horror Picture folks presumably got drunk and spent an Show midnight screening. Adam Savage evening horsing around and one of them likewise had a coming of age story, in said; “hey, I wonder if people would pay by John O’Halloran his case about “Dungeons and Dragons”

21 Lewis, who plays a mean ukelele and seeing the participants who were not does both original songs and some currently onstage mingle by the amazing covers, and Kid Beyond, a backstage door chatting, drinking and beatboxer you have to see to believe. watching whoever was performing at the This time Molly was back, and it was time. It was clear that they could just as great to see the amount of confidence easily have been off in the green room she has gained onstage since last year. eating delicious hummus, but wanted to The rest of the lineup included Bonnie hang with their friends and be part what Burton, who did a Star Wars crafts was going on. presentation and told some very troubling glitter and googly eyes anecdotes. Mike Phirman, of Hard N Phirm, who did a couple of very fast- paced songs including one that had a delightful Dr. Demento vibe to it. The more sciencey guest was futurist Jamais Cascio who spoke about how the Singulariy isn’t the “End of the World,” and while it was interesting enough it seemed more tailored for a mainstream audience. On the other hand, Grant Imahara’s BeerBot was just about by John O’Halloran perfect in tone and execution. Beer plus robot, plus hot guy—what’s not to love? and teen lust, but more importantly he Mixed in with all this were vids such came on stage with the Blade Runner as the “A Moment with Wil” series, blaster replica that he made strapped on. funny clips and music bits to feed the The audience went nuts. ADHD-enhanced audience, my absolute Aside from the main team, every favorite of which was the truly inspired w00tstock has special guests. Some Generic Movie Trailer from Britanick. announced in advance and others The neatest thing about the evening, surprises. Last year we had Molly though, wasn’t even on the stage. It was by John O’Halloran

22 All good things must come to an end, though, and as is traditional, the evening wrapped up with the crew back on stage for The “Captain’s Wife’s Lament,” which is a simple pirate ditty that requires audience participation and ends up being a 20+ minute long audience participation saga. I recognized a number of my fellow nerds in the audience, including John O’Halloran, who was kind enough to provide the photos for this writeup, and it was fun to see the tweets the following night as people got ready to head out to the Friday night show. Each night is unique, but I knew they’d be in for a good time.

by John O’Halloran

23 Oui, Au Contraire!

By Tom Becker Compositor

Au Contraire!, the 31st New Zealand National Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention, was held in Wellington on August 27-29, 2010, the weekend before the WorldCon in Melbourne. The convention committee was very savvy in setting the date so fen from overseas could attend both conventions. It worked out so well, there now is a WorldCon bid for New Zealand in 2020. After a long flight from San Francisco via Los Angeles and Auckland, Spike and I spent the night at Booklover’s B&B. It is run by Jane Tolerton, a journalist and biographer. As one would expect, her home is full of interesting books. I bought a copy of her Waiting in the Auckland Airport Jane Tolerton – Journalist and Innkeeper biography Ettie, about Ettie Rout, a courtesy of Tom Becker by Tom Becker remarkable New Zealand woman who was a friend of H.G. Wells and ran a The B&B is right next to Mt. Victoria But there were great views of downtown very controversial, unorthodox, and Park, where some of the scenes in Lord Wellington and the harbor. successful campaign to prevent venereal of the Rings were filmed. We walked up Saying au revoir to Wellington, we disease among the troops in The Great the Great East Road, and somehow we took a ferry to South Island. Fortunately, War. missed Bree and the Prancing Pony Inn. the weather was sunny and the seas were calm. Cook Strait can get very rough,

24 The Road to Bree by Tom Becker Wellington Harbor by Tom Becker

Queen Charlotte Sound by Tom Becker Museum of Wearable Art by Tom Becker

25 but this time was smoother than many Drive, with more incredible views of the and it was worth going to New Zealand ferry rides I’ve had on San Francisco Sound at every turn. just to see them. Bay. About a third of the trip was spent The most amazing thing we saw in The next day we drove to Blenheim slowly going through long narrow Nelson was the Museum of Wearable (pronounced “Blen’em”), first going passages between islands in Queen Art and Classic Cars. In 1987 a rural art past vineyards with sheep grazing on the Charlotte Sound. It was incredibly gallery near Nelson held a small bright green grass between the vines, beautiful as each turn lead to a new costume contest as a promotion. It now then up into the steep forested hills with vista. My idea had been to spend a is a professional costume art contest giant tree farms and clearcuts, stopping couple of days before the con relaxing in with corporate sponsors and an audience near the top at Lake Rotoiti in Nelson the less scenic but conveniently close of 35,000 over ten days. The contest is Lakes National Park. Next to the lake is north end of the South Island. I could now held in Wellington where there is a forest where the government and local see already that the “less scenic” part more room for it, but the museum citizens are removing invasive species was only relative. At the ferry port in remains in Nelson, in an old car factory and restoring the native bird habitat. We Picton, I picked up a rental car, and we (hence the classic cars). Many of the walked through the woods listening to drove to Nelson, along Queen Charlotte costumes in the museum were amazing the splendid bird calls and gawking at

Lake Rotoiti by Tom Becker Cloudy Bay Vineyard by Tom Becker

26 the strange objects that had been placed science fiction at the same time, and book, which will resolve the theological there as part of the habitat restoration how cool it is when writers master problems introduced in the first two. She effort. multiple literary toolkits. And that was talked about some of her other books, Blenheim is the main town in the when I’d read only the first third of the and a really interesting novel her sister Marlborough region, home of the book. I finished it on the ferry, and I Sarah wrote about a woman who passes famous New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, wondered what could possibly come as a man in order to join a bomber crew which I’m not actually that fond of. But next. in WW II. We found out the best used it was very pretty (in a low-key, not as At the kaffeeklatsch Elizabeth was bookstore in town was very close to the scenic as the south end of South Island quite excited to see that we had an con hotel, and started making plans. way). American edition of Vintner’s Luck. She Sean Williams, the International Then it was back on the boat to told us there was going to be a third (!) Guest of Honor from far away Australia, Wellington, where we made it in time for the Au Contraire! kaffeeklatsch with Elizabeth Knox. When we were planning to go, Spike realized she had one of Elizabeth’s books. We brought along her copy of Vintner’s Luck and I read it on the way. It was stunning: beautiful prose, vivid imagery, characters that are smart, passionate and mysterious, and amazing but very rational extrapolation from a simple fantastic premise. Elizabeth Knox is a very strong writer and in terms of ability and style (but not length) I would compare her to George R.R. Martin. At Booklover’s I found that Jane had a series of book discussions at the B&B, including one with Elizabeth. Of course she had. I tried to explain to Jane how Vintner’s Luck seemed to work as fantasy and mainstream fiction and Elizabeth Knox by Tom Becker Sean Williams by Tom Becker

27 was also at the kaffeeklatsch, basically as a fan, and participated in the discussion. It was pleasant and relaxing, except when we thought about how much our bags were going to weigh after we hit the bookstore. In the picture you see Sean is wearing a daffodil pin. The 27th was Daffodil Day in New Zealand, when volunteers from the Cancer Society sell flowers to raise money for cancer research. Istanbul not Constantinople by Tom Becker To complete my trifecta, I ran into Norway, England and Ireland. The other Paul Mannering, the Fan Guest of table had a strong contingent from Honor. BASFA, plus some fans from New For dinner, a whole bunch of us Zealand and the amazing Jay Lake. The walked down Cuba Street to Istanbul, a food was good too. Turkish restaurant that was The convention formally opened with recommended as good for large groups. a spirited fannish manifesto by Daphne. Indeed it was, and no sooner had they (All the concom members are women pulled a couple of tables together and and they all went by their first names.) got us seated than another group of fans Guests of honor Sean Williams, came in the door. Our table had Elizabeth Knox and Paul Mannering representation from California, Texas, were introduced.

Paul Mannering by Tom Becker

28 Opening Ceremonies by Tom Becker Fan Funds Panel by Tom Becker

Dance Party by Tom Becker Science Discussion by Tom Becker

29 The Fan Funds Panel featured Maree great beat and I could not stop dancing There was a temporary dealer’s room Pavletich (FFANZ), John Hertz (DUFF to them. called the Floating Market that happened 2010), Norman Cates (DUFF 2004) and The next morning I got up early on Saturday morning. I had a nice chat James Shields (GUFF), and was (which wasn’t hard, being jet-lagged) with Dee and Peter Sowter, who had a moderated by Flick (League of Fan and tottered on my creaky knees to a table selling all sorts of collectables and Funds). They explained how fan funds 9:00 a.m. science discussion. At opening cosplay wearables. They go to build connections between fans in far-off ceremonies, Daphne had gone on about Armageddon Expo, the big media places, and how they work. how Au Contraire! was all about fannish oriented SF convention with an That evening the con had a dance participation. Well, they really meant it, attendance of 40,000, as well as the party with DJ Sean Williams, spinning and it showed in the program. The much smaller fannish conventions like ’80s new wave hits on an excellent science discussion had a circle of chairs Au Contraire!. sound system. It was brutal, realizing and we were all the panelists. It worked The debate featured dueling DUFF that indeed these were the songs of my out fine, and we had an interesting time winners Norman Cates and John Hertz youth, and worse yet, that they had a with people talking about biotechnology, arguing the question, “The evil overlord climate change and the space program. is more interesting than the sword-

Treasures at the Floating Market by Tom Becker The Debate by Tom Becker

30 Elizabeth Knox Guest of Honor Speech by Tom Becker Jay Lake Auctioneering by Tom Becker

The Quiz by Tom Becker Sean Williams Guest of Honor Speech by Tom Becker

31 wielding hero.” If I recall correctly, Mr. I was on my way to lunch and there’s everything, all the personal stuff. I guess Hertz advocated for the evil overlord. It Jay Lake auctioning stuff off for charity. I am one of his closest personal friends was an interesting debate and both Mr. He wasn’t listed on the program and I now, along with many others. I’m not Hertz and Mr. Cates spoke courteously wasn’t expecting him to be on any sure I’m ready for that, because of and well. panels, considering that he was still course, as a personal friend, I should Elizabeth read from an essay “The recovering from chemotherapy, but he’s have read most of what he’s written, if Charm of Fantasy”, published in her a darn good auctioneer and there he was, not all of it. Maybe not all 41 (?) books book The Love School: Personal Essays. helping out. that he’s published. 20 or 30 should be A quote: “The fantasy that I’ve loved – The quiz had a big room packed with okay. Ulp. But he’s a really nice guy, fantasy, science-fiction, horror – has, it teams of contestants. The questions were and I’d better do it. Fortunately, most of seems to me, often been inspired by fantastic, science-fictional and his books are available in the States. dread or longing.” It was a short essay, horrifically difficult. It moved along fast The masquerade was small but had but a fantastic one, but I could also feel too. some excellent costumes. The halftime the horror as my luggage went “thunk” In his Guest of Honor speech, Sean entertainment was also good, featuring a again with one more book. told us all about himself. I mean, like

Masquerade Halftime Theremin Concert by Tom Becker Agatha Heterodyne by Tom Becker

32 Exobiology by Tom Becker Patrick Nielsen Hayden and Tim Jones by Tom Becker theremin concert and bellydancing Molloy. There was some discussion of Earth Abides. I pulled out my camera (sadly not together). the long history of SF poetry in New and got it powered on and into movie Jonathan Cowie, from the UK, gave a Zealand, where people can find SF mode as fast as possible. I just made it talk on what might be possible in poetry today, and the panelists each read and got a video of Harvey reading “The exobiology given what we understand one of their poems. I was bemused when next ten thousand years.” When he was about evolution and biology here on Harvey Molloy asked if it would be done (and it was a good, thoughtful Earth. It was a good mix of hard science okay if he read a sonnet, and explained poem), I raised my hand and explained information, speculation and humor. rather sadly that he had a poem that about Potlatch and asked if I might be Apparently having a good understanding would never get published because it able to get permission to publish his of the biological principles behind beer was in such an archaic form, and it was poem in the program book. Harvey was is very helpful. science fiction about an obscure book by happy to say yes. Come to Potlatch and The SF poetry panel featured Tim George R. Stewart called Earth Abides. you should be able to see the video of Jones, co-editor of Voyagers: Science At that point I freaked out. I’m doing the him reading it too. Fiction Poetry from New Zealand, and program for Potlatch 20 next year in Paul Mannering creates audio plays poets Janis Freegard and Harvey Sunnyvale, and our Book of Honor is for fun, collaborating with other fans all

33 Harvey Molloy by Tom Becker Paul Mannering Guest of Honor Speech by Tom Becker around the world, and making them available on the Internet. His Guest of Honor speech was enthusiastic, energetic, and, needless to say, well enunciated with a fine radio voice. Sir Julius Vogel was a 19th century social reformer, science fiction novelist, and Prime Minister of New Zealand, so it obviously was very appropriate to name the New Zealand fannish science fiction awards after him. SFFANZ, who administer the awards, came up with a really wonderful design for the trophies too.

Sir Julius Vogel Awards by Tom Becker

34 Best Bartending by Tom Becker Best Fan Publication Nominees by Tom Becker There should have been award for making the drinks. I can say the Best Bartending. The hotel set up a bar “Adrenalin and Soma” was tasty. outside the awards ceremony. As you The award ceremony was run by may have seen at other conventions, Norman Cates, of whom we had been there was a cocktails menu with clever seeing a lot, in a fine white jacket. At the science-fictional names for the drinks. beginning there was some chanting of This one was especially creative, with “Norman, Norman” from the audience, interesting ingredients, not just unusual which seemed to be some sort of in-joke names. For example, their non-alcoholic that Norman didn’t mind much at all. Raktajino recipe included “cardomom The ceremony ran smoothly. One nice and palm sugar syrup infused with chili touch was to give the pro awards first, shaken with chocolate soya milk and starting with Best Novel, and get them served in a tall glass.” True Klingons out of the way before moving on to the might be appalled, but there was a long more interesting and highly contested line, and the staff worked like crazy awards such as Best Fan Writing and Simon Litten – Sir Julius Vogel Award winner for Best Fan Writing by Tom Becker

35 BASFA Meeting by Tom Becker Sean and Norman by Tom Becker Best Fan Publication. Then it was determined that it was had stopped bidding, and in a frenzy, After the closing ceremony was over Norman’s birthday, plus or minus six overbid himself twice. Then it was done. and the catatonic cat party was getting months, so it was time to auction him off I was disappointed, but not bitter, and I underway, Dave Gallaher got up and for charity. Bidding was fast and furious, resolved not to let it affect my friendship called a BASFA meeting. (According to and it ended up being between me and with Sean. Wikipedia, Dave Gallaher was a great Sean Williams. Sean ran out of money The winner of a BASFA birthday New Zealand rugby player who played but strangely seemed unperturbed. Then auction may require the birthday person on the All Blacks from 1903 to 1906. I saw fans running from all over the to do whatever he is asked to do, that he But I mean our Dave Gallaher.) Norman room to give him more money. The fix is willing to do. Sean asked Norman to Cates was inducted into BASFA and was in. My dreams of getting Norman to bid for a New Zealand Worldcon. appointed the Ministerial Ambassador to write for SF/SF were crashing like a Norman allowed that he was willing, The Colossal Squid. piano falling down a flight of 200 steps. and that is how the New Zealand in Meanwhile, Sean failed to notice that I 2020 bid got started.

36 The Colossal Squid by Tom Becker

37 Pacificon 2010

By William La Cross Contributing Writer

On Labor Day weekend, there was a plethora of gamers at the Santa Clara Marriot for Pacificon 2010. In the shadow of Great America (literally across the street from the hotels main entrance), players of multiple types of games invaded the hotel for four days of what I say at work as “getting my geek on!” Just like Kubla Con in May, you see a wide array of gamers representing all types of games. The only difference here is the amount of specific types of games. While Kubla Con is known for role playing games (RPGs), Pacificon is known for the type of games called Historical Miniatures or minis. It was sad to see the economy affecting attendance of this convention, as a lot of people did come, but many did not bring by William La Cross there whole families nor did as many stay for the whole convention as they In contrast to Kubla, for those of you not) and it is still a family-oriented had in previous years, a sad reminder of who read my article concerning that event. They were not able to have a the external forces that can affect the convention, Pacificon is slightly smaller, children’s room this year because of playtime of any adult. but the gamers are just as serious (or room constraints, but there was a BBQ

38 fund raiser at the pool/patio for another rooms for children. A small maze was problem keeping their child in constant event we were sharing the hotel with, erected with poles and sheets and the view. Great America right across the street, children got to “hunt down” an Alien. One of the big draws this year was beautiful warm weather and loads of Any parental concerns were easily the Board Game Library. A large gaming. abated, as the maze was built for amount of board games were brought in, Attendees did get to see the “Alien children, but full-grown adults had no volunteers staffed it, and people were Maze,” a small event in one of the larger allowed to check out and play them. I witnessed a lot of families playing together. I felt so warm and fuzzy inside, I thought I swallowed a Tribble. Something new this year was an extension of the yearly flea market, called the Traders Square. Each night, late, attendees were able to put out gaming things they were willing to part with, and could sell or swap them. You also saw the return of many convention favorites, including Board Game Tournaments, dealers’ room and the PSA/RPGA room. The PSA is the Pathfinder Society and the RPGA is the Role Players Gaming Association. The RPGA is an organized campaign utilizing the fourth Edition Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) rules, while the PSA utilizes the Pathfinder rules printed by Paizo Press. Pathfinder is much closer to the 3.5 D&D rules. If you enjoy fourth ed., RPGA is the way to go, if 3.5 is the style you like, Pathfinder is the game for you. We saw the traditional 10 slots in by William La Cross

39 this room, with over 100 games going off during the whole weekend. If you play other types of RPGs, this convention probably had it being played sometime over the weekend, if you could not make it this year, hopefully next year. The next convention in the Bay Area is DunDraCon 2011, in San Ramon. It takes place on Presidents’ Weekend in February, is quite a lot of fun, and if you have the time and resources I hope you can come and check it out for at least one day. Game on people.

by William La Cross

40 Dragon*Con 2010

By Noelle Paduan Dragon*Con is the largest and fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, multimedia and popular culture art, music and film. September 3-6, 2010 convention focusing on science fiction www.dragoncon.org Atlanta, GA

Codex from the Guild by Noelle Paduan Steampunk Alice in Wonderland by Noelle Paduan

41 Harry, Hermione and Ron from Harry Potter by Noelle Paduan Steampunk Fashion Show by Noelle Paduan

True Blood Panel by Noelle Paduan

42 Slave Leia from Star Wars by Noelle Paduan Thor by Noelle Paduan

43 Summer Glau from Firefly and Sarah Connor Chronicles by Noelle Paduan

GI Joe Cobra Force by Noelle Paduan

Black Spiderman by Noelle Paduan

44 The Hugos 2010

By Chris Garcia Wu was two votes away from the ballot, actually running ahead of File 770, Editor Emeritus and Frank Wu followed in seventh place. Argentus and Challenger, which is a Ditmar, while not from the BArea is one huge shame as it was the best fanzine There was good, there was bad. I was of the most original fan artists in the page for page of 2009. Go and read it at happy with a lot of the winners, and world, followed the Wus. Mo Starkey, a Challzine.net! there were a couple of serious problems; regular in The Drink Tank, came in 10th, The nominations were really but ultimately, it’s a year that I think will with one more vote than Spring interesting as Challenger was the one be widely remembered. Shoenhuth, who had one more than our with the most nominations, followed by Let’s start with the Campbell Award own España Sheriff, who tied with SSS, who heavily campaigned for those which is not, I repeat NOT, a Hugo. A legends D. West, Kurt Erichsen, Marc noms, and then Argentus, Banana Wings local favorite, Seanan McGuire, won! Shirmeister and Randall Munroe. It’s a and File 770 and The Drink Tank. Steam Sadly, I’ve not read Rosemary & Rue, great turnout for us San Francisco types. Engine Time was in seventh, and but Seanan is a talented, talented person. Banana Wings was named the Best Journey Planet, my other zine with My pick, Gail Carriger, ran third. I really Fanzine of 2010, while StarShipSofa James Bacon and Claire Brialey, was thought she had it wrapped up. won the Best Fanzine Hugo. This was a one vote behind that. This fine First off with the actual Hugos, shame, a downright crying shame. Yes, publication came in 15th, which is a there’s Best Fan Artist. Brad W. Foster España, I hear you. Seriously, name good showing as it tied with another won. He’s one of the greatest fan artists another award where two things of BArea zine Trap Door. I think SF/SF of all-time, now a seven-time Hugo completely different forms compete in got two more votes than last year, and winner, and a good dude. Dave Howell the same category? As Steven H Silver then Exhibition Hall went in at 19th. came second, and my pick, Taral Wayne, said at NASFiC, 60 Minutes does not That means I had four zines in the top came in third, in front of Steve Stiles compete with The New York Times for 20. That’s weird. and Sue Mason. Dave Howell was Best Newspaper. The forms are so OK, the Best Fan Writer was always nominated on the strength of his Hugo different they can’t really be compared. going to be Fred Pohl, and he blasted design, and it was amazing. It’s weird Banana Wings came second, with everyone, with Claire Brialey earning that Taral’s never won. Or Stiles. exactly half the votes of SSS. This was a not even half the votes of Fred Pohl, and On the nomination side, there were good finish for the Fishlifters, a strong he only needed one set of redistributions BArea-ites all over. Brianna SpaceKate- finish. Drink Tank came in third, to settle the win. I went third in both

45 first place votes and in the redistributes, I’m somewhat surprised that Tor.com that happen? I mean, have people which is weird. James Nicoll went didn’t pull more than 13 votes. actually been reading Asimov’s lately? fourth, then Lloyd Penney came in fifth. Best Professional Artist was Shaun It’s a mess! Ann VanderMeer was sixth, It’s a nice distribution, and anytime Tan, which was no shock as he was the Gardner Dozois seventh. Neither Alisa Claire gets close to the top, I’ll be Artist Guest of Honor. John Picacio Krasnostein (15 nominations, tied with happy. came in a strong second, and I’m betting Shawna McCarthy) nor Cat Rambo (13 The nominations? There’s some fun. next year is his year. Stephan Martiniere tied with David Hartwell and George R. Fred Pohl got 44, I got 41, then Lloyd was third, the legendary Bob Eggleton R. Martin) made the ballot. They’re both had 31, Nicoll behind that by 1, and came in fourth, and Danny Two Saints, fantastic editors and both Australians, Claire one behind that. Steven H Silver Daniel Dos Santos, ran last. Phil Foglio and both are going to be doing stuff missed the ballot by one vote, and Dave was off the ballot by a lot. That’s a that’ll change the genre over the next Langford and Guy Lillian both had 26. shame because he’s my favorite. Donato few years. Australian legend Bruce Gillespie tied Giancola, last year’s winner, declined Best Editor–Long Form was Patrick with Taral Wayne and John Hertz with his nomination. He’s awesome, but he’s Nielsen Hayden, winning a pretty close 24 nominations each. Cheryl Morgan a guy who believes in spreading the contest with Lou Anders. Ginjer and Niall Harrison both had 22. It’s an wealth, possibly because there were so Buchanan ran third, and then it was Liz interesting distribution. many years where he was bumped by Gorinsky and then Juliet Ulman. I really Best Semi-Pro went to Clarkesworld, folks who wouldn’t step aside. wish that Juliet had done better. which is a fine zine and I’m glad to see Best Editor Short Form was a Nominations? Dave Hartwell that it won. Interzone came second, shocker. Ellen Datlow won, and that declined his nomination, which he said followed by the BArea’s own Locus. shouldn’t be a surprise, but Jonathan he’d do. Beth Meacham missed the Weird Tales and then Ansible pulled up Strahan was the favorite, had 31 more ballot by one nomination. Jacob the rear. The distribution of nominations first place votes than Datlow, but after Weisman got 9 nominations. I’d love to was almost the same as the voting, save redistributions he lost by 15. Somehow, see him climb the nominations ladder. for Locus and Interzone were swapped. Sheila Williams came in third, beating Best Dramatic Presentation–Short This was something of a surprise, as Gordon Van Gelder, whose F&SF is the Form was always going to be Doctor Charles Brown passed away last year best of the three promagazines out there. Who, and “Water of Mars” was the and I figured that’d get them some extra Stanley Schmidt, the longest-running winner, though I still say “The Next votes. This year was not the year for continuous nominee without a win, Doctor” was way more entertaining. In a sentimentality. The New York Review of came in fifth. weird twist, Dollhouse got more first Science Fiction came in a distant sixth. Nominations? Strahan had the most, place votes for “Epitaph 1.” What the followed by Sheila Williams. How does hell, man! Despite that, it only managed

46 fourth behind the three Doctor Who and what’s wrong with it. It’s an because it’s awesome and I’m so glad I episodes. FlashForward beat “No interesting look at things. The winner got a copy at World Horror. I love it. I’m Award.” Good to hear. was Girl Genius. No doubt, the best so hoping that Brighton Shock! gets a Nominations were what you’d thing won, though I totally thought that nom for next year. expect, but mostly it followed the final Batman: Whatever Happened to the Best Short Story. “Bridesicle” won. voting. One of my favorite things was Caped Crusader was going to take it, Not my fave, but it happens. “The Bride that Pixar’s Partly Cloudy, which I but alas, it ran second, Fables third, of Frankenstein” by Mike Resnick came assume was a knock at the then soon-to- fourth went to Captain Britain, which in second, followed by “Non-Zero be-released Cloudy with a Chance of was a damn shame, and Schlock Probabilities” by N. K. Jemisin. “Spar”, Meatballs, was 10th. Mercenary was last. Schlock Mercenary by Kij Johnson, was far-and-away my OK, Best DramLong was a huge managed the ballot by just one vote over favorite, came in fourth, followed by shock. First off, Moon won. Well- Grandville, Bryan Talbot’s masterpiece, Lawrence Schoen’s “The Moment.” I deserved, best film on the list, easily, which was the biggest miss for the ballot was very disappointed that “Spar” didn’t and District 9 came second, Up third, in my eyes. Scott Pilgrim vs. The win. The only surprise in the Star Trek fourth, and Avatar last. This is Universe was also close. nominations was “Useless Things” by almost as big a shock as 2000 when Best Related Work went to Jack Maureen McHugh, which came in 10th. GalaxyQuest beat The Matrix and Star Vance’s This is Me, Jack Vance! (Or She’s great and I loved that story, though Wars. A shocker. More Properly, this is “I”), whom I I didn’t read it until after the nomination The nominations were very good. believe is the oldest winner ever. He’s period. Star Trek was second in noms, and the only nominee who is allowed to call Best Novelette would not have gone Avatar was last. Torchwood: Children of Fred Pohl ‘kid.’ The Inter-Galactic to “The Island” if Peter Watts had just Earth was sixth, Coraline seventh and Playground came in second. Farah’s a stayed in his car. It’s not a bad story, but Watchmen eighth. Harry Potter was perennial nominee. Hope-In-The-Mist it’s not a great story either, and there ninth, but had almost 60 fewer by Michael Swanwick was in third were other great stories in the anthology, nominations. Sherlock Holmes was also place, followed by The Secret Feminist and on the ballot. Charlie Stross’s way down. Cabal, and On Joanna Russ, and lastly “Overtime” was the one that got the OK, let me start something of a rant. Canary Fever by John Clute. I was most first place votes and then it went Go to eFanzines.com and look at issue hoping for a better showing by Clute, back and forth with “The Island” in the 247 [of The Drink Tank – ed.]. That’s the but alas, no. lead. It ended up with “The Island” Comics issue where James Bacon, Liz The best book of any kind last year, taking the win. “Overtime” took second. Batty and Nick Honeywell look at what Powers: Secret Histories, was seventh, “Eros, Philia, Agape” came in third. I the Best Graphic Story is, what it means five votes off the ballot. That’s a shame really liked that one. “It Takes Two” by

47 Nicola Griffith, my least favorite, took Gwynne’s by the late Kage Baker, which Just fantastic. Boneshaker made a very fourth, ahead of my two faves: “One of came third behind The God Engines by good showing with a third place finish. Our Bastards is Missing” and “Sinner, John Scalzi. The God Engines actually The awful Wake by Robert J. Sawyer Baker, Fabulist, Priest; Red Mask, Black had the most first place votes until the held on for fourth over Julian Comstock Mask, Gentleman, Beast”. It’s a shame. third redistribution, when Baker’s story and then Palimpsest by Catherynne M. Nominations were pretty interesting. took over for the next two redists, and in Valente in last. I would have loved to “Overtime” had one more nomination the end it was “Palimpsest” by 11 votes. have seen Palimpsest finish higher, and that “The Island” and all the others on Nancy Kress’ “Act One” brought the I’m sure in the future there will be the ballot were tied with 38 nominations. bile to the back of my throat by placing significant confusion between Valente’s “Zeppelin City” by Eileen Gunn and fourth, followed by my two favorites: Palimpsest and Stross’. I’m just glad the Michael Swanwick was 12 nominations “Vishnu at the Cat Circus” and two best novels of the year won. off the ballot, which is a shame as I Shambling Towards Hiroshima. Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld was really enjoyed that one. “A Journal of Nominations saw a few stories in nine off the ballot, which would have Certain Events of Scientific Interest interesting places. “Wives” by Paul made for two solid Steampunk novels on from the First Survey Voyage of the Haines was five votes off the ballot. the ballot. Galileo’s Dream by Kim Southern Waters by HMS Ocelot, As “Hot Rock” by Australian Greg Egan Stanley Robinson was 17 votes off the Observed by Professor Thaddeus was 13th, two votes ahead of “Earth II” ballot, which is a shame as it’s an Boswell, DPhil, MSc; or, A Lullaby” by by Stephen Baxter. amazing book. The Quiet War and Helen Keeble was in the top 20, and I The Main Event: Best Novel. It was Yellow Blue Tibia were both far too low didn’t read it until well after the good stuff as my two top picks: The on the nomination list. nomination period, but if I had, it would Windup Girl and The City & The City A good set of winners, though as have had another vote. tied to both take home the award. That’s always, it’s not perfect. Next year is Again, no sentimentality as Charles great as they both had the same number Reno and who knows what’ll happen! Stross won Best Novella for of first place votes and also had the “Palimpsest” over The Women of Nell same final number after redistribution.

48 Letters of Comment

Lloyd Penney writes: Best Novelette Doctor Who: “The Waters of Dear Jean and España: “The Island” by Peter Watts Mars”, written by Russell T. Thank you for another Science (The New Space Opera 2; Eos) Davies & Phil Ford; directed Fiction/San Francisco, issue 108 this (Canadian!) by Graeme Harper (BBC time around. As you might imagine, this Best Short Story Wales) is been a crazy day… I found out this “Bridesicle” by Will McIntosh Best Professional Editor – Long morning about the Hugo winners (Asimov’s 1/09) Form through the Web, and though I was a Best Graphic Novel Patrick Nielsen Hayden nominee, I found myself a one-time Girl Genius, Volume 9: Best Professional Editor – Short Hugo loser within minutes. I have some “Agatha Heterodyne and the Form hopes for Reno next year. Heirs of the Storm”, written by Ellen Datlow Jean Martin responds: Kaja and Phil Foglio; art by Best Professional Artist Congratulations on the nomination! Phil Foglio, colours by Shaun Tan Too bad you didn’t win. But that’s great Cheyenne Wright (Airship Best SemiProzine that you were nominated. Best of luck Entertainment) Clarkesworld, edited by Neil next year! Best Related Work Clarke, Sean Wallace & Cheryl I don’t know if you’ve received the This is Me, Jack Vance! (Or Morgan list of winners, but just in case… More Properly, This is “I”) by Best Fanzine Jack Vance (Subterranean) StarShipSofa, edited by Tony Best Novel (tie): Best Dramatic Presentation – C. Smith The City and The City by Long Form Best Fan Writer China Miéville (Del Rey; Moon, screenplay by Nathan Frederik Pohl Macmillan UK) Parker; story by Duncan Jones, Best Fan Artist The Windup Girl by Paolo directed by Duncan Jones Brad W. Foster Bacigalupi (Night Shade) (Liberty Films) John W. Campbell Best New Best Novella Best Dramatic Presentation – Writer Award “Palimpsest” by Charles Stross Short Form Seanan McGuire (Wireless; Ace; Orbit)

49 Thanks for the list. Chris Garcia should be a separate category for it. we’ll be gone again. If there’s nothing does a full analysis in this issue. But But that’s understandable that awards for us to do, it will probably be another it’s good to have a list of the winners in in general are slow to recognize new 10 years before we return. Fan eXpo’s an easy-to-read format. media and trends. It’s just like when big problem this year was its surge of There were surprises, some shock, Jethro Tull won the first ever Heavy attendance, the fire marshal locking and one of the few ties the Hugos have Metal Grammy Award, beating out the down the building at one point while the ever had to deal with, and of course, the more appropriate and more well- show continued to sell tickets, and the Best Fanzine category is causing the deserving Metallica. I myself have not north half of the Metro Toronto expect grumping and groaning, over a listened to any podcasts. I have an iPod Convention Centre was just too small podcast winning the category. Maybe but am not really into radio shows and for the event. They either need to cap someday, a fanzine will win the Best talk shows, which podcasts seem to be attendance, or get more space. The Fanzine category, but not today. more like. Crotchety Old Fan website had quite a Well, SF/SF came in 15th. Not a bad I wasn’t sure that Warren Buff wasn’t good article about this fiasco. The showing as Chris Garcia says in his going to burn himself out by chairing the biggest thing visible was a display with Hugo article in this issue. I’m still NASFiC by himself, but looks like he the new to-be-released movie Tron: amazed that people know about us, did a fine job, and already, he’s back on Legacy being promoted. I remember the much less actually write down our his regular zine publishing schedule. original in the theatres, so I’d like to see name and submit us as a nominee! Toronto Evelyn? That wouldn’t be the 27-years-late sequel. I have not heard any SF podcasts, Evelyn Baker, would it? An old, old Bigger cons are just too big for me. and I don’t have an iPod to listen to friend. I think she knows Kim Kofmel With too much to do and winding up them. I think they should have their own from when she lived up here. One of the with nothing much to do at all. Too category, but this may simply be a chairs of the new Kansas City bid is many people make it difficult to get symptom of a fannish generation gap, Diane Lacey, another Toronto resident. around to do things and get into panels. and the feeling that the older folks Toronto has its own version of Tron was promoted heavily at both who’d still like to win a rocket are now Comicon, called the Fan eXpo. It had WonderCon and Comic-Con. The being pushed out of the way by the been 10 years since I’d been to one, trailer looks good. I hope the actual newer and bigger boys who have loyal since there’s almost nothing there for movie lives up to the hype and my fond followers in sufficient numbers as to me. This year, there would be another memories of the original. overcome the rest of the voting masses. Steampunk fashion show, so we were My loc… I did sign up with the Yipe! Yes, that is unfortunate that a there. If we are there next year, it will be Fair Warning There’s An Issue Coming podcast won Best Fanzine. There for whatever we’ll be doing, and then Service, so I won’t fall behind any more.

50 And, I’d like to do a Match Game some time, too. I think we’d soil ourselves laughing. We’ll meet in Reno, money willing, and a big hug for you. Better explain to the new boyfriend… I can’t wait for Reno! Hope to meet you there. My eyes are shutting, so I’d better wrap this up and get it to you. Reno’s just a year away, so see you there.

Join our crew! We are looking for writers to cover local events, conventions, fan groups and the fannish scene in general. Contact Jean Martin at [email protected]

51 BASFA Minutes: Meetings 1046-51

Meeting 1046 The Vice President reported that college at 7pm, bring $2 for parking & “there are things happening that you that Hairspray the singalong will be at August 23, 2010 would not – could not – understand”. the Retro-dome this Saturday and The President had nothing fannish to Sunday. Trey Haddad, President report. Adrienne announced that the Chris Garcia, Vice-President Speaking of BASFA meetings at program schedule has been posted for Dave Gallaher, Treasurer Worldcon & beyond – [tall] Kevin Aussiecon & that she’ll be gone for the Galen Tripp, Sargeant at Arms moved to direct the Treasurer to convene next 3 weeks. Barbara Johnson-Haddad, Secretary BASFA meeting #1047 in Wellington as Dave C announced that there is a new Held at Coco’s, 1206 Oakmead the Oriental Bay meeting – and that the Cargo Cult catalog out. Parkway (Lawrence Expressway/101 Melbourne meeting will be annexed as [evil] Kevin announced that he fwy), Sunnyvale -> HOWEVER please the Port Phillip Bay meeting #xxxx – doesn’t have site selection ballots with be aware that Coco’s is doing a remodel! and this motion passed. him. The blinds are back on the window, but Dave C reported that there will soon Josh announced that Facebook has they are closing at 9pm and we are be more BASFA members in Melbourne the dates wrong for Gastronomicon & he starting meetings early. than there has been in the past 11 years will be having informal meetings for this Began at 7:50 pm – commenting and that plans are going well. [aka “Glutton-con”] in the next few about the remodeling. Mo requested that if anyone visiting weeks; check for details at 22 people attended. Australia can bring back a “Starkey” www.thought4food.org. Secretary’s report: the minutes from beer label or can she would like to have Glenn announced that SMOFcon will meeting 1045 were accepted as “thanks one & Chris requested an official Aussie be the 1st weekend of December & to the secretary”. rules snow-globe. Armadillo-con is this weekend and he’ll No Treasurer [and he will be away be there. for the next few weeks, too] and the faux Announcements Chris announced that Corflu is the Ken announced that this Friday is the Treasurer report was that last week we 2nd weekend in February [11-13] and Legion of Rassilon meeting, same time took in $2.53 in the regular jar & $3.25 will be the debut for a 60-year old slide and place; then on Saturday is a in the party jar. show. Psychotronic Film Festival at Foothill

52 [tall] Kevin announced that the cost Dave C reviewed Don of the Dead by - Norman Cates was appointed for Melbourne’s Worldcon wifi will be Casey Daniels as the main plot actually Ambassadorial Minister to the Nation of $30 for 8 hours and because of this there finished and it’s worth full price & Colossal Squid may be live Hugo coverage online. recommends the live action Youtube - Russell Kirkpatrick was appointed Then we did auctions – a magazine trailer for Dora the Explorer. Ambassador to the Wall of Night for $0.25. Adrienne reviewed getting a pedicure Reviews were received for Au The rumor of the week was: “You as wonderful and she even got her toes Contraire, the con hotel and Air New don’t need to spend money to get hold of done. Zealand, all positive. Mo’s can”. Josh reviewed Star Wars Revisited as Sean Williams asked Norm Cates to this is what the special edition should run a Worldcon bid for New Zealand in Reviews have been. 2020. People threw money. Andy reviewed a Danish film, Lisa reviewed visiting Disneyland as Love ’n’ hugs, Adam’s Apples as completely and utterly they stayed at the Disney hotel – and Cheryl deranged – easily worth Netflix & recommends avoiding the Wonder tower reviewed The Adventures of Picasso as since they are remodeling & that World Total revenue for the meeting was bizarre madness, see it when drunk and of Color is wonderful. NZD$124.90, or about USD$88.75. also worth Netflix; then Chris follow- We adjourned at = 9:07 pm – in Dave on’d for Adam’s Apples that it’s dark and memory of DisneyCon, the happiest con he laughed at it. on Earth. Glenn reviewed Fuck Me Ray Meeting 1048 [in the Bradbury as school girl fantasy stuff, sequence] funny & he recommends it & reviewed a BASFA Meeting 1047 Chinese food place on Castro in MV as August 30, 2010 Hi Everyone, the food was awful and the service was Norman Cates was birthday worse; reviewed a McKillip bood – The Trey Haddad, President auctioned for $NZD109.90, which Throme of the Erril of Sherrill as YA, a Chris Garcia, Vice-President inverts to $78.07. fast read with an interesting ending; Dave Gallaher, Treasurer Dave reviewed 4 days spent in Yosemite as Galen Tripp, Sargeant at Arms beautiful and he had a great time. Barbara Johnson-Haddad, Secretary Also Chris reviewed Clementine by Cherie Held at Coco’s, 1206 Oakmead - Sean Williams was appointed Priest as good but it suffered from evil Parkway (Lawrence Expressway/101 Ambassador to Adelaide white guy syndrome. fwy), Sunnyvale -> HOWEVER please

53 be aware that Coco’s is doing a remodel! The Ad-Hoc Committee for the Baby Diane announced that there will be a The windows are covered and the tables Present reported that baby Richard came Ren Faire next weekend in Hayward. are done, but they plan to re-carpet and by and Marina may well be back The rumor of the week was: “They we were told they are likely to close at working here next Monday. went thru the desert for a zine with no 9pm next Monday [as well as tonight]. Then we did auctions – a snowglobe theme” Began at 7:55 pm. for $2.25 and a book for $0.75. 18 people attended. Reviews Secretary’s report: the minutes from Announcements Andy reviewed a drinking game, meeting 1046 were accepted as “better Mike announced that this weekend is “Wizard Sticks” as an actual game with than jury duty”. Pacificon at the SC Marriott. drinking and not bad; there were follow- No Treasurer [and he will be away Andy announced that he and [evil] ons. for the next few weeks, too] or Kevin will be at fenCon in Dallas as fan Lisa reviewed going to a Steampunk treasurer’s report. GoHs in the near future and he’s looking picnic as fun; Chris follow’d on that he The Vice President reported that he for artwork and articles for a fanzine – was there, filming the steam-punkers as made a documentary and it’s pure crap – the ikinook Reader. they oogled the Babbage engine. a new Drink Tank will be out, soonish, Ken announced that this weekend is Ed reviewed The Return by Barnes printed in Australia on paper – and he the Retro-dome’s anniversary and they and Aldrin as well done sf plus a plans to make a movie. will be showing Raiders and Temple of detective story and he gives it high The President said that there are Doom for fan appreciation weekend – marks and enjoyed it & reviewed Kick things happening out there that he will and KFJC will have a 1pm to 6pm Ass and The Losers as well worth not – cannot - understand. penny pitch at Streetlight Records on renting from Red Box; Chris opined that Remember that the next BASFA Bascom this Saturday. he liked Losers and Josh felt Kick Ass meeting is at Melbourne = the Port Glenn announced that SMOFcon will was a good adaptation. Phillip Bay meeting and its number is be the 1st weekend of December. Glenn reviewed ArmadilloCon in #xxxx. Sarah announced that will be a Austin, TX as it was hot outside, about The Party Committee reported that he meeting for Gastronomicon here at 400 people attended, he made some has been abused, scape-goated and fired Coco’s on Sept 18, 4pm; check for friends and had a good time. from FurCon and thus will not details at www.thought4food.org. Chris reviewed the first half of the personally hold a BASFA party there – Chris announced that there was a Psychotronic Film Festival as well worth so does anyone -else- want to hold a snookering and thus there is a new full price [Ken & Geri agreed] and BASFA party at FC? Worldcon bid for 2020. reviewed a book by SM Peters, White Chapel God as bad – but not terrible –

54 and he’d read it again for the cover; we were told they are likely to close at Mountain View - and that Creature reviewed Rules of Engagement as 22 9pm next Monday [as well as tonight]. Features night at PacBell Park is in 2 minutes you’ll never get back again and Began at 8-ish. weeks - and the Giants play the Brewers you’ll lose extra time besides. 13 people attended. that night. Ken also reviewed Hairspray the Secretary’s report: the minutes from Josh announced that the date for singalong at the Retro-dome as great fun meeting 1048 were accepted as “better Gastronomicon is now right on and the next one will be in October for than Jerry Springer”. Facebook [check for details at Willy Wonka the Gene Wilder version. No Treasurer& the faux treasurer’s www.thought4food.org]. Carole reviewed Liang Village in report was that last week we took in Cupertino = Taiwanese/Chenese as good $8.00 in the regular jar and $2.50 in the Reviews food. party jar. Chris reviewed Blameless by Gail We adjourned at = 9:07 pm The Vice President reported that Carriger as the best of the 3 she’s written there’s a new Drink Tank out - the so far and he recommends it & he Meeting 1049 [in the comics issue - a new Exhibition Hall out reviewed a short story from Strange and he placed 3rd in the Hugos. Horizons June 2009 issue, “Lullaby” by sequence] The President said that he has Helen Keeble as excellent and worth nothing fannish to report - and that the seeking out. September 6, 2010 - with applause construction here is allegedly done. I reviewed the new content in Avatar for Marina [aka “attack of the cute blue kitty Announcements people”] as pretty good. Trey Haddad, President Chris announced that his predictions We did auctions – a book for $5.00. Chris Garcia, Vice-President for the Hugo award for best novel came The rumor of the week was: “Lies! Dave Gallaher, Treasurer true as there was a tie for the award - Lies! These are mostly lies!” Galen Tripp, Sargeant at Arms plus Clarkesworld got the win and Mo We adjourned at = 8:37 pm Barbara Johnson-Haddad, Secretary placed 10th for best fan artist and Spring Held at Coco’s, 1206 Oakmead placed 11th. Parkway (Lawrence Expressway/101 [evil] Kevin announced that the fwy), Sunnyvale -> HOWEVER please anime issue of Yipe comes out this be aware that Coco’s is doing a remodel! month - possibly next week. The windows are covered and the tables Ken announced that KFJC will have are done, but they plan to re-carpet and a 1pm to 6pm penny pitch fund raiser at Rasputin Records this Saturday in

55 Meeting 1050 The Sports Committee reported that Josh announced that will be a 1st both Bay area football teams lost – tho meeting for Gastronomicon here at September 13, 2010 Chris pointed out that the Giants had Coco’s on Sept 19, 4pm; check for beat the Padres – then Ken pointed out details at www.thought4food.org. Trey Haddad, President that this Saturday night is the Giants Mo announced that she has an article Chris Garcia, Vice-President Creature Feature night. in Bob Hole’s new fanzine. Dave Gallaher, Treasurer Andy moved to establish a committee Galen Tripp, Sargeant at Arms to secretly take over the 2020 World Reviews I reviewed a book by Eric Flint & Barbara Johnson-Haddad, Secretary Exhibition, with himself as its chair & Ryk Spoor: Threshold as well written, Held at Coco’s, 1206 Oakmead the “sense of the meeting” was fun science fiction with a dash of space Parkway (Lawrence Expressway/101 unanimous in its support. opera thrown in. fwy), Sunnyvale -> HOWEVER please The Ad-Hoc Committee for the Baby Andy reviewed the weekend as hurry be aware that Coco’s is doing a remodel! Present reported that baby Richard came up or wait & reviewed St. George Spirits The windows are covered and the tables by and Marina may well be back new Agua Libre as worth the $30-odd are done, but they plan to re-carpet and working here next Monday. dollars a bottle & amazing. we were told they are likely to close at Glenn reviewed his surgery as the 9pm next Monday [as well as tonight]. Announcements: Dave C announced that Starcrash is drugs were effective; reviewed Began at 8 pm. being released on BlueRay tomorrow. McKillip’s book Moonflash as 18 people attended. Glenn announced that Kevin interesting sf; & reviewed his new Borg Secretary’s report: the minutes from McCarthy died from body-snatching. appliance [“Jawbone”] as the earpiece is meeting 1049 were accepted as “wait – [evil] Kevin announced that o/~ there flimsy & the charger is tiny. Avatar has content?” & the minutes is FenCon in Texas – a con of burning [evil] Kevin reviewed Mandrake – a from meeting xxxx were accepted as gold o/~ where he and Andy will be Fan Skiffy movie seen so “you don’t have “waylaid by Greg Benford”. GoHs & announced that Renovation’s to” as it stole the plot from Tobanga – so No Treasurer – but the faux rates go up at the end of September. watch Tobanga, not this. treasurer’s report was that last week we Andy announced that the first issue Ed reviewed The Expendables on the took in $5.25. of his fanzine – the ikinook Reader – big screen as welfare for over-the-hill The Vice President reported that he will be released at FenCon. action stars & not worth even a dollar; made a shirred egg in a pyrex bowl & a Ken announced that KFJC will have by reviewed a book by Ralph Peters, new Drink Tank is out. a 1pm to 6pm penny pitch in SF at War after Armageddon as he really liked The President had nothing fannish to Aquarius Records this Saturday. and enjoyed it. report.

56 Dave C reviewed Aussiecon 4 as an BASFA Meeting # 1051 OK convention but smallish; Chris Announcements Dave Clark announced that Starcrash follow-on’d that the program book was 20 September 2010 the “best evar” & reviewed Dracula’s – is available in regular DVD, in addition to Blu-Ray. a night club he went to with Adrienne as Trey Haddad, President Mo announced that she has the food was OK & there was vaudeville Chris Garcia, Vice-President SorcererCon flyers (including the & it was worth full price; then Dave C Dave Gallaher, Treasurer obligatory typo) and that she and reviewed a wine tasting trip where he Galen Tripp, Sargeant at Arms Corrine Howlett spent last week passing decided that Aussies “like their tannins” Barbara Johnson-Haddad, Secretary them out at various likely sites. and it was worth the visit. Held at Coco’s, 1206 Oakmead Howeird announced that he will be Chris reviewed being a member of Parkway (Lawrence Expressway/101 playing with the Ye Olde Towne Band at the Arbitron family as he now has a freeway), Sunnyvale. (The management Shoup Park in Los Altos at 1:30 PM on leash & he’s been watching terrible TV tells us the remodeling is complete; Saturday. Best of all, it’s free. because of this [he needs a reason?!?] & someone pointed out that they failed to Ken announced that the Legion of reviewed The Kids are all Right as okay remodel the bathrooms, which defeats Rassilon will be meeting this Friday at & reviewed the Piedmont theatre as nice the purpose of improving the customer the usual spot. and the floors aren’t sticky – worth full experience that the remodel should Glenn announced that this would be price & reviewed For all Mankind as he provide.) his last meeting for a while, and said enjoyed the hell out of it, highly Called to order at 8:02 PM, Vice something about him and Allie once a recommended & reviewed China President Chris Garcia presiding. month. Meiville’s Kraken as well-produced and 26 people attended. Josh announced that planning for “so pretty”. President and Secretary were absent. Gastronomicon is moving right along Then we did auctions – videotapes We established a party jar. and that the staff meeting went very for $0.40; PS2 games for $0.60; PSP No Secretary, no Secretary’s Report. well. games for $0.25; computer games for The Treasurer reported that we have Sarah announced that she had no $2.00 & $1.00 & $0.25 and a book & money. announcement. games for $0.25. The Vice-President reported that he Bill announced that the Secret The rumor of the week was: “I miss had snorted hollandaise sauce and that Combat Manual of the Warrior Class is Stellan”. there is a new issue of The Drink Tank available at BookBuyers in Mountain We adjourned at = 9:27 pm out. View. New guy George Harrison introduced himself.

57 Reviews [Evil] Kevin reviewed the Yard Dog Gordon reviewed Bubonicon in Mo reviewed seeing flying pigs after Press books Four Redheads of the Albuquerque as very good. drinking wine in Santa Clara. Apocalypse as goofy, fun, wonderful Sarah reviewed the Peppermill in Addrienne reviewed Aussiecon 4 as books. Reno as a good place to stay during pretty low key, though with lots of stuff Glenn reviewed “Moon in the Face” Worldcon. happening. There were many A4 by Patricia McKillip as very enjoyable. Chris reviewed showing his follow-ons. She also reviewed This was SF, not fantasy. He also documentary in an awesome, craptastic Melbourne as very interesting, and that positively reviewed Bruno’s Barbecue in location. she had an intense experience with Scott Valley and Palace Barbecue Buffet We auctioned various items and Vegemite. in Sunnyvale. people. Andy reviewed Fencon as Fan Guests Dave G reviewed Au Contraire, the The rumor of the week was “None of Honor as lots of fun and it is a nice New Zealand NatCon as very enjoyable walks into a bar.” little con; they almost drink as much as and highly recommended. We adjourned at 9:51 PM. Iowa cons. Sweeny Todd at the Sunnyvale Players was positively reviewed.

58 Bay Area Fannish Calendar

Life is complicated; putting on an event is even Friday, October 8 Saturday, October 16 more so. Please check before attending, as The Ball of C’thulhu: A Monster Mash SF in SF: Claude Lalumiere and Karen Joy events are sometimes canceled or times and The DNA Lounge Fowler locations changed. 375 Eleventh Street, San Francisco Variety Preview Room in the Hobart Building www.dnalounge.com 582 Market Street, San Francisco Follow the calendar on Twitter: Swing Goth and Clockwork present: Abney www.sfinsf.org @sfsfcalendar Park, Vernian Process and Unextraordinary Doors open at 6:00PM. Cash Bar - Proceeds to Gentlemen Variety. Readings begin at 7:00PM, followed New listings are highlighted in red. 8 p.m. $23 by Q & A moderated by Terry Bisson. Signing Ongoing events are toward the back. and schmoozing in the lounge afterwards Friday, October 15 6 p.m. Free Midnites for Maniacs Saturday, October 2 The Castro Theatre Saturday-Sunday, October 16-17 The Evil League of Evil Villains’ Ball 429 Castro Street, San Francisco Alternative Press Expo PEERS Event, www.peers.org Triple Bill: Fright Night (1985) An American The Concourse Masonic Lodge of San Mateo Werewolf in London (1981) and The Evil Dead 620 7th Street, San Francisco 100 N Ellsworth Ave, San Mateo (1982) www.comic-con.org/ape Guests are invited to attend as their favorite 7:30 p.m. $12 Confirmed special guests as of press time are Evil character – historical, fictional, or original. Lynda Barry, Daniel Clowes, Rich Koslowski, Live music by Avalon Rising. Costumes may Saturday, October 16 and Tony Millionaire. be historical, science fiction/fantasy, modern Anime Destiny evening dress. The event includes musical UC Berkeley Campus, Berkeley Sunday, October 17 performances, a no-host (cash) bar, and a light animedestiny.silential.com Author: Ken Scholes snack buffet. Potluck contributions to the buffet Anime Destiny was originally created by Borderlands Books will be greatly appreciated. Berkeley’s very own anime club, Cal Animage 866 Valencia Street, San Francisco 7 p.m. $20 Alpha, as a way to bring together anime fans www.borderlands-books.com from the UC campus and the bay area. Ken Scholes reads and signs the third volume $10 in the projected five-book ‘Psalms of Isaak’ series; Antiphon. 3 pm Free

59 Monday, October 18 lodge for drying out. Suggested costume: Early Saturday, November 6 Forbidden Thrills Movie Night 1960s. Le Bal des Vampires Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge Check website for details. PEERS Event, www.peers.org 1304 Lincoln, Alameda Masonic Lodge of San Mateo www.thrillville.net Sunday, October 24 100 N Ellsworth Ave, San Mateo Cult Movies & Cocktails, hosted by Will the East Bay Mini Maker Faire There is no dress code for the ball, suggested Thrill. All shows free, first feature starts @ Park Day School, 370 43rd Street, Oakland costume is evening dress of the century and 7:30 PM, second feature @ 9:15. Free Popcorn 2601 Monarch Street, Alameda country of your “rebirth.” Our band upstairs and Trivia Prizes. October’s films are Werewolf ebmakerfaire.com ballroom is chamber ensemble Bangers & in a Girls Dormitory and Manster (1954) The East Bay Mini Maker Faire will follow the Mash and downstairs there will be DJ music in 7:30 p.m. Free big Maker Faire model of celebrating do-it- the Dracula’s Daughter Discotheque. Hosted by yourself creativity and tinkering, but will be Dark Moon, the club also features a no-host Tuesday, October 19 smaller in scale and will showcase the wonders (cash) bar, and light refreshments. Half-time The Complete Metropolis of Alameda and Contra Costa counties. show in the ballroom is a performance by the Pacific Film Archive 10 a.m. $20 celebrated Le Theatre des Vampires. 2575 Bancroft Way, Berkeley 7 p.m. $25 (until October 30) www.bampfa.berkeley.edu/film/FN18770 Friday-Sunday, October 29-31 Judith Rosenberg on Piano. Co-presented with Yaoi-con Saturday, November 14 the Goethe-Institut San Francisco Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport GBACG Costume Salon: Victorian 7 p.m. $9.50 1333 Bayshore Highway, Burlingame Location TBA www.yaoicon.com www.gbacg.org Saturday, October 23 A Celebration of Male Beauty and Passion in Bring your projects and ideas and join us for Mad Men Vodka Tasting Anime and Manga. 18+ GOH Anayo Yamame potluck tea, socializing, and sharing resources. Hangar One Distillery $65 If you’d like to attend, email 2601 Monarch Street, Alameda [email protected]. www.gbacg.org Sunday, October 31 1 p.m. Free As part of landing our latest client and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde becoming familiar with their products, office Davies Symphony Hall staff will be at the Vodka Tasting Tour at San Francisco Alameda based Hanger One in Alameda. Clean www.sfsymphony.org cut office wear from the Kennedy Era/Age of A newly restored version of the 1920 silent Optimism once again gets to soak up the classic plays with Ruffatti organ accompaniment. cocktails. After the Distillery closes, designated The Buster Keaton short “The Haunted House” drivers (as needed) will ferry staff to the will also play. Half price for ages 17 and under. Mahogany Room of the nearby Alameda Elks 8 p.m. Check website for prices.

60 Monday, November 15 Friday-Sunday, December 3-5 Monday, December 13 Forbidden Thrills Movie Night SMOFcon 28 Forbidden Thrills Movie Night Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge Sainte Claire Hotel Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge 1304 Lincoln, Alameda 302 South Market Street, San Jose 1304 Lincoln, Alameda www.thrillville.net www.smofcon28.org www.thrillville.net Cult Movies & Cocktails, hosted by Will the SMOFcon is an annual convention for people Cult Movies & Cocktails, hosted by Will the Thrill. All shows free, first feature starts @ who run science fiction conventions. Thrill. All shows free, first feature starts @ 7:30PM, second feature @ 9:15. Free Popcorn $55 (through Oct 1st) 7:30 PM, second feature @ 9:15. Free Popcorn and Trivia Prizes. November’s films are Glen and Trivia Prizes. December’s films are Santa or Glenda and Bride of the Monster Saturday, December 4 Claus Conquers the Martians and Santa Claus 7:30 p.m. Free GBACG Goes to Dickens 7:30 p.m. Free Dicken’s Faire Friday-Sunday, November 26-28 www.gbacg.org Saturday, January 1, 2011 SorcererCon The GBACG goes to the The Great Dickens Victorian Twelfth Night Ball Sainte Claire Hotel Christmas Fair. Visit with friends, view the PEERS Event, www.peers.org 302 South Market Street, San Jose costume competition, and make merry in Masonic Lodge of San Mateo www.sorcerercon.com Dickens’ London with our annual GBACG 100 N Ellsworth Ave, San Mateo Fantasy Convention meet-up! A 12th Night Ball hosted by Mr. and Mrs. $50 Check website for details. Fezziwig from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Bangers and Mash will play a variety of Friday-Sunday, November 26-28 Sunday, December 12 Viennese and rotary waltzes, polkas, mazurka Loscon 37 SACCON waltzes, schottisches, the Lancers, reels, and LAX Marriott Scottish Rite Center other set dances popular in the early and 5855 West Century Boulevard, Los Angeles 6151 H Street, Sacramento mid-19th century www.loscon37.org www.sacramentocomics.com/html/index2.html Suggested costume is evening or day dress GOH: Emma Bull, Phil Foglio, Kim Brown, Sacramento’s Toys, Comics and Anime show. from 1837 through 1870 . Modern evening Jordan Brown 10 a.m. $6 dress is, as always, a completely acceptable $40 (until September 30) substitute for period costume, and there is no dress code for the evening. 7 p.m. $15 (till December 24)

61 Wednesday-Saturday, January 12-15 and Saturday, February 5, 2011 Friday-Sunday, March 4-6, 2011 19-22, 2011 Gotham City Black and White Ball Consonance Machine: A Fire Opera PEERS Event, www.peers.org Hilton Newark/Fremont The Crucible Masonic Lodge of San Mateo 39900 Balentine Drive, Newark 1260 7th Street, Oakland 100 N Ellsworth Ave, San Mateo www.consonance.org www.thecrucible.org/events/fire-operas-ballets/ Vintage or modern evening dress is admired, Filk convention, GOHs; Joe Giacoio & Carla 366 not required; black and white attire is optional. Ulbrich, Interfilk Guest: Denise Gendron, Conceived and staged by Mark Streshinsky Guests may also come as their favorite Toastmistress: Lynn Gold, International Guest: specifically for The Crucible’s performance superhero or heroine in disguise or incognito. Chris Malme space and capabilities, this original fire opera is Sara and Swingtime plays an evening of $40 (through October 31) based on a sci-fi short story by Derek J. elegant vintage ballroom dance music and hot Goodman, with original score by Clark Swing of the 1920’s, 30’s and 40’s in keeping Friday-Sunday, March 4-6, 2011 Suprynowicz. with the Film Noir ambience of the city! Pre- Potlatch 20 Details TBA ball dance lesson from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. There The Domain Hotel will be a no-host (cash) bar, and a light snack 1085 East El Camino Real, Sunnyvale January 22-February 5 buffet, and potluck contributions to the butler’s www.potlatch-sf.org Shadowlands pantry would be greatly appreciated. Literary science fiction convention. Book of Lucie Stern Theatre, 7 p.m. $15 (till January 29) Honor: Earth Abides. 1305 Middlefield Rd # 1, Palo Alto $55 www.paplayers.org Saturday, February 19, 2011 In the 1950’s, C.S. Lewis, the Oxford professor The Gilded Age Glissade Saturday, March 5, 2011 and creator of Narnia, met American poet Joy Palo Alto Masque of the Red Death Carnivale Ball Gresham. He was reserved – a content bachelor www.gbacg.org PEERS Event, www.peers.org in his fifties. She was outspoken – a divorcee A romantic afternoon spent skating in the Masonic Lodge of San Mateo 17 year his junior. Their friendship developed outdoors. Suggested costume: 1870-1900. 100 N Ellsworth Ave, San Mateo into an unlikely but deep and abiding love – Check website for details. Celebrate both Carnival and Mardi Gras at the one which upended Lewis’ convictions about Masque of the Red Death Carnivale Ball. The God and His plan for the world and revealed a Saturday-Sunday, February 19-20, 2011 band for the evening is Avalon Rising, who will vital truth: a heart awakened to great love is Anime on Display play a variety of dance music from elegant also a heart made vulnerable. By William Hotel Kabuki waltzes and tangos to wild polkas and reels, Nicholson, Directed by Marilyn Langbehn. 1625 Post Street, San Francisco from elegant Renaissance dances to Preview on January 21st. www.aodsf.org Renaissance rock. Suggested attire is period Check website for tickets and showtimes. Animation convention. costume, fantasy Mardi Gras or Carnival $25 (until February 5) costume, or a fanciful version of period costume (Renaissance, 17th, 18th and 19th

62 century costume is especially fashionable for Friday-Sunday, March 18-20, 2011 Saturday, June 4, 2011 Carnival but any earlier historical period ConQuest Sac VI Pyrates Ball costume works well, too). Modern evening Sacramento Marriott Rancho Cordova PEERS Event, www.peers.org dress is perfectly acceptable and there is no 11211 Point East Drive, Rancho Cordova Details TBA dress code for the ball. To protect your www.conquestsac.com reputation, masks are strongly recommended. Gaming convention Sunday, June 5, 2011 There will be a no-host (cash) bar, and a light $25 (through September 30) SACCON snack buffet. Potluck contributions to the buffet Scottish Rite Center will be greatly appreciated. Friday-Monday, March 18-21, 2011 6151 H Street, Sacramento 7 p.m. $15 (till February 26) Pantheacon www.sacramentocomics.com/html/index2.html The Doubletree Hotel Sacramento’s Toys, Comics and Anime show. Sunday, March 6, 2011 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose 10 a.m. $6 SACCON www.pantheacon.com Scottish Rite Center Pagan convention. Thursday-Sunday, July 1-4, 2011 6151 H Street, Sacramento $65 (through January 15) Westercon 64 www.sacramentocomics.com/html/index2.html The Fairmont Sacramento’s Toys, Comics and Anime show. Friday-Sunday, April 1-3, 2011 170 South Market Street, San Jose 10 a.m. $6 Wondercon www.westercon64.org Moscone Center South GOHs: Patricia A. McKillip, Kaja & Phil Friday-Sunday, March 11-13, 2011 San Francisco Foglio, Mike Willmoth FOGCon www.comic-con.org/wc $65 (through Oct 15) Holiday Inn Golden Gateway Hotel Details TBA 1500 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco Saturday, August 6, 2011 fogcon.org Saturday, April 2, 2011 Suffragists’ Picnic Dance Guests of Honor are Pat Murphy and Jeff Jane Austen Ball PEERS Event, www.peers.org VanderMeer. The theme for 2011 is “The City PEERS Event, www.peers.org Details TBA in SF”. Details TBA $55 (through November 1) Saturday, May 7, 2011 Ball of the Gods PEERS Event, www.peers.org Details TBA

63 Wednesday-Sunday, August 17-21, 2011 Ongoing Sakuramento Anime Society Worldcon: Renovation Rancho Cordova Library Reno Sparks Convention Center Daily 9845 Folsom Boulevard, Rancho Cordova 4590 South Virginia Avenue, Reno, NV Meets every Sunday to watch old and new Reno, Nevada Cartoon Art Museum anime and anime music videos, play collectible www.renovationsf.org 655 Mission Street, San Francisco card games, practice artwork and make AMVs. The 69th World Science Fiction Convention. www.cartoonart.org 3-7 p.m. GOH: Tim Powers, Ellen Asher, Boris Vallejo, 11-5 p.m. $6 (Closed Mondays) Mondays Charles N. Brown. San Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking Tour $160 (till September 30) Begins: Queen Anne Hotel Bay Area Science Fiction Association Saturday, September 3, 2011 1590 Sutter at Octavia, San Francisco Coco’s The Space Cowboys Ball www.sfghosthunt.com 1206 Oakmead Parkway, Sunnyvale PEERS Event, www.peers.org Closed Tuesdays. www.basfa.org Details TBA 7-10 p.m. $20 8 p.m. Free

Saturday, October 1, 2011 VIZ Cinema Dukefish Victorian Octoberfest Ball 1746 Post Street, San Francisco Jake’s of Sunnyvale PEERS Event, www.peers.org www.newpeopleworld.com/films 174 E. Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale Details TBA VIZ Cinema is a 143-seat underground cinema games.groups.yahoo.com/group/dukefish inside New People in San Francisco. Its Group meets weekly to play German-style Saturday, November 5, 2011 programming focuses on the latest and hottest strategy board games such as Settlers of Catan, Le Bal des Vampires films from Japan, as well as classics, favorites, Carcasson and other games, plus an occasional PEERS Event, www.peers.org documentaries and anime. game of bridge breaks out. Meet up at 8:00 Details TBA Please check theater for showtimes and tickets. p.m., figure out who wants to play what, and typically start playing games no later than 8:30 Sunday, December 11, 2011 Sundays p.m. SACCON 8 p.m. Free Scottish Rite Center MGI SF&F/Horror/Speculative fiction 6151 H Street, Sacramento Writing Group www.sacramentocomics.com/html/index2.html Personal Residence (email for details) Sacramento’s Toys, Comics and Anime show. Emeryville 10 a.m. $6 groups.yahoo.com/group/MGISFFWriters 7:30 p.m. Free

64 Mondays and Wednesdays East Bay Strategy Games Club Thursdays EndGame Silicon Valley Boardgamers 921 Washington, Oakland CAS: NightLife Mountain View Community Center www.michaeldashow.com/eastbaystrategy/ The California Academy of Sciences 201 S. Rengstorff Avenue, Mountain View home.html 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park, www.davekohr.users.sonic.net/svb 7:30 p.m. - 11 p.m. Free San Francisco Group meets regularly to play mostly German- www.calacademy.org style strategy boardgames such as Settlers of Fanboy Planet Podcast Every Thursday night, the Academy opens its Catan; also multi-player Avalon Hill-style, Illusive Comics and Games doors for NightLife, a chance for adults to historical war games, and others. 2725 El Camino Real, Suite 105, Santa Clara explore the museum in a whole new light. 6:30 p.m. $2 www.fanboyplanet.com Dance to some of San Francisco’s most popular Live from Illusive Comics and Games, it’s the DJs, enjoy food and cocktails, and mingle Tuesdays Fanboy Planet Podcast with your host, Derek while you delve into the Academy’s world- McCaw. class exhibits and get up close and personal MGI Boffers & Outdoor Games 6 p.m. Free with aquarium critters. Codornices Park 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. $12 (21+) 1201 Euclid Ave, Berkeley Wednesdays and Saturdays mgisciaf.angelfire.com Fridays groups.yahoo.com/group/MGIFamilyclub Hayward Collectibles Show Bad weather: we meet the same time at 33 22300 Hathaway Ave (rear bldg), Hayward SF Games Revolutions Record Shop & Cafe, El Cerrito www.toysandbaseballcards.com Muddy’s Coffeehouse for boardgames. Wednesdays 3 p.m.-8 p.m. and Saturdays 10 1304 Valencia Street, San Francisco 3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Free a.m.-5 p.m. vax.hanford.org/dk/games Free SF Games is a collective name for a bunch of Wednesdays people who get together and play board games and card games every week. Also has a regular Bay Area Role-Playing Society cards night at Atlas Café, 20th and Alabama Go-Getter’s Pizza Streets, Tuesday nights from 6:30-10. 1489 Beach Park Boulevard, Foster City 7 p.m. to midnight Free www.BayRPS.com Hosts a weekly game night. For club and game night details email [email protected] 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Free

65 Fridays-Mondays Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers’ Group Rocky Horror Picture Show Borderlands Books The Clay, 2261 Fillmore Street San Francisco/ Haunted Haight Walking Tour 866 Valencia Street, San Francisco The Guild, 949 El Camino Real Menlo Park Meets at Coffee To The People Meets the second and fourth Thursdays of each www.bawdycaste.org 1206 Masonic Avenue, San Francisco month at 6 pm. Contact Jade Livingston at The Bawdy Caste presents the classic midnight www.hauntedhaight.com [email protected] for more information. movie the first Saturday of the month, Reservations required. alternating between the Clay in San Francisco 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. $20 Monthly and the Guild in Menlo Park. Midnight Fridays and Saturdays Dorkbot-SF www.dorkbot.org/dorkbotsf/ QSF&F Book Club Vampire Walking Tour Dorkbot hosts regular forums for artists, Borderlands Books Meets corner of California and Taylor, San designers, engineers, students, and other people 866 Valencia, San Francisco Francisco doing strange things with electricity. www.qsfandf.com www.sfvampiretour.com Free, donations welcome Meets the second Sunday of the month. Led by Mina Harker. Tour is canceled if there 5 p.m. Free is heavy rain. Foothill Anime 8 p.m. $20 Building 5015, Foothill College East Bay Star Wars Club Los Altos Hills Central Perk Biweekly Monthly event where people can get together to 10086 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito watch anime and meet like minded others. 510-558-7375 PenSFA Party Usually meets the first Sunday of every month The Peninsula Science Fantasy Association www.ebstarwars.com at noon. Meets the second Friday of every month. meets every two weeks for a party at the home 12 p.m. Free of one of their members. They also host parties 7:30 p.m. Free at local conventions. Email Silicon Gulch Browncoats Fantastic Frontiers [email protected] for information on Various locations (see website for details) www.freewebs.com/fantasticfrontiers/ attending. PenSFA standard party rules: bring www.silicongulchbrowncoats.org Social club for Sacramento County sci fi/ something edible or drinkable to share, or pay Silicon Valley fans of Firefly/Serenity meet up fantasy fans usually meets the second Saturday the host $2. Don’t smoke in the house without on the first Saturday of the month. of the month. Check website for meeting times checking with the host first. Normal start time Noon - 2 p.m. Free and locations. is 8 p.m. but may vary depending on the host.

66 No-Name Anime Micro Gods, Inc. Other Realms Book Club Saratoga Library Berkeley Public Library, West Branch Books, Inc. 13650 Saratoga Avenue 1125 University Ave, Berkeley 1375 Burlingame Ave, Burlingame Saratoga mgisciaf.angelfire.com www.booksinc.net/localinterest/291027 www.nnanime.com groups.yahoo.com/group/MGIFamilyClub/ Meets the 4th Wednesday of the Month. Anime screenings usually take place on the Family Club for fans of Science Fiction, 6:30 p.m. Free second Saturday of the month. Fantasy, Movie, Anime & Manga. Meets every Free 3rd Saturday, please check Yahoo group for Legion of Rassilon updates. Carl’s Jr. SF Browncoats 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Free 2551 N 1st St , San Jose Cafe Murano www.legionofrassilon.org 1777 Steiner Street, San Francisco USS Northern Lights Doctor Who fan group usually meets the fourth www.sfbrowncoats.com Contact [email protected] for Friday of the month: Episodes of Doctor Who, SF Firefly/Serenity fans usually meet up on the specifics. news, discussion of recent movies, and a raffle. second Saturday of the month. sites.google.com/site/ussnorthernlights 7:30 p.m. Free Noon Free ’Lights is a chapter of Starfleet International and a swell group of science fiction fans. We USS Augusta Ada Science Fiction and Fantasy Book Club do more than Trek. Usually meets the third Round Table Pizza Borderlands Books Saturday of the month, with social event TBD. 3567 Geary Blvd, San Francisco 866 Valencia, San Francisco 7 p.m. Free trek.starshine.org www.borderlands-books.com Augusta Ada is both a chapter of Starfleet Meets the third Sunday of the month. Please Religion & SF Book Club International and a Linux and *BSD user contact Jude at jfeldman@borderlands- First United Methodist Church group. Usually meets the fourth Saturday of books.com for more information. 1183 “B” Street, Hayward every month. 6 p.m. Free Meets the 4th Sunday of the month. Please 1 p.m. Free contact Rev. Randy Smith at USS Defiance [email protected] for more information. Veritech Fighter Command ONE-THREE 5026 Don Julio Blvd, Sacramento 7 p.m. Free Round Table Pizza 1566 Howe Ave, Sacramento 4403 Elkhorn Blvd, Sacramento www.myspace.com/d2121978 916-338-2300 Star Trek fan group meets the third Friday of Anime/cosplay group usually meets the last the month. Saturday of the month at 1800 hours. 7 p.m. Free 6 p.m. Free

67 Alamo Square’s Painted Ladies by Lucy Huntzinger 68 Bay Area Fannish Calendar Ð October 2010

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

MGI SFF/H Writing BASFA MGI Boffers BA Role-Playing Soc CAS: NightLife SF Games Sakuramento Anime Dukefish E.Bay Strategy Games SV Boardgamers Fanboy Planet Podcast SV Boardgamers 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 The Evil League of Evil Villains’ Ball Rocky Horror

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Foothill Anime The Ball of C’thulhu Fantastic Frontiers East Bay Star Wars No-Name Anime SF Browncoats

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 QSF&F Book Club SF&F Writers’ Group Midnites for Maniacs Anime Destiny USS Defiance Lalumiere & Fowler Alternative Press Expo Micro Gods, Inc USS Northern Lights

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Ken Scholes Forbidden Thrills The Complete Legion of Rassilon Mad Men Vodka Alternative Press Expo Movie Night Metropolis Tasting SF/F Book Club USS Augusta Ada

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 East Bay Mini Maker Other Realms SF&F Writers’ Group Yaoi-con (thru Sun) Veritech Fighter Cmd 13 Faire Religion & SF 31 Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde

Science Fiction/San Francisco #109 – September 29, 2010 – SF/SF is the monthly news zine for the San Francisco Bay Area – www.efanzines.com. 69