Volume 21, Issue 6 December 2011/ January 2012 ConNotations NewsZine FREE The Bi-Monthly Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror & Convention Newszine of the Central Arizona Speculative Fiction Society SF TUBE TALK: It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like the Holidays by Lee Whiteside It’s the end of the year and that leaves us with a episode will air on the BBC on Christmas Day and few new things leading up to the holidays including more than likely will also air on BBC America the Christmas episodes from Doctor Who, Eureka, same day as they did last year. Warehouse 13 and Haven. Beyond the Christmas Special, fans may have to First of all, this year’s Doctor Who Christmas wait until the fall for more Doctor Who. The BBC has special reportedly is set during the World War II era commissioned fourteen episodes for series 7, with the and is inspired by C. S. Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch, first half airing in the fall with an assumed Christmas and the Wardrobe. Guest stars including comedian Bill Special airing at the usual time. The remainder of Bailey, Alexander Armstrong (who voices Mr. Smith the season will likely air in the spring of 2013. This on the Sarah Jane Adventures), comedienne Arabella change of airing schedule follows on from splitting Weir, and Claire Skinner as widower Madge Arwell. the season in 2011 into two parts and also likely sets According to The Daily Star, “The special sees the things up to lead into the fall of 2013 and whatever Time Lord (Matt Smith, 28) crash land in war-torn is being planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary England. Posing as the caretaker of a creepy old house of Doctor Who. Doctor Who spinoff The Sarah Jane in Dorset he embarks on a magical mystery adventure Adventures aired its final episode on the BBC this fall with Madge Arwell and her two children, Lily and with a likely DVD release coming soon. It has ended Cyril. The three have been evacuated from London due to the death of Elisabeth Sladen earlier in the year. as the capital comes under attack during World War Torchwood concluded the Torchwood: Miracle Day episodes of Eureka, Warehouse 13, Haven, Ghost Two. And there’s plenty of surprises as the Doctor series on Starz and BBC with fairly decent ratings for Hunters, their new miniseries Neverland, and a leads them into a new world.” A preview clip was both the BBC and Starz. There’s been no word on what snow themed Saturday movie. Sunday and Monday, screened during the annual Children in Need telethon is being planned, if anything, to continue that series. December 4 & 5, sees the debut of the minseries on the BBC on November 18th, which should have Coming up in early December on Syfy is their Neverland, which is a prequel to author J.M. Barrie’s been made available online shortly after it aired. The Countdown to Christmas week, feature Christmas classic Peter Pan. It takes the viewer from the turbulent Continued on Page 3
BUSINESS REPORT ... Page 2 CALENDAR OF EVENTS ... Page 10-11 CONVENTION REVIEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS ... Pg 15 SF TUBE TALK ... Page 1, 3 & 4 GAMERS CALENAR ... Page 11 IN OUR BOOKS ... Page 16 From the Managing Editor ... Page 4 MOVIE REVIEW ... Page 12 GRAPHIC BOOKS & MANGA REVIEWS ... Page 17 EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS ... Page 7 FAN FICTION ... Page 12 CONVENTIONS LISTINGS/CLASSIFIED ADS ... Page 18 24 FRAMES ... Page 8 FEATURED FICTION ... Page 13 TRAVEL LOG ... Page 18
SCIENCE EXPLORATION ... Page 9 MOVIE/VIDEO REVIEWS ... Page 14 CLUB LISTINGS ... Page 19
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Non-Profit Org. Non-Profit Central Arizona Speculative Fiction Society Fiction Speculative Arizona Central ConNotations Pick up your copy of ConNotations CASFS Business Report at the following locations BOOK STORES Cactus Rd, #302, Phoenix AZ 85032 (602) (Covering July 12 to October 14) 494-4263 Anasazi Bookstore By Gary Swaty CASFS Secretary Game Daze #2 10540 W. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ Superstition Springs Center, 85037 (623) 877-5336 CASFS Board of Directors-- Chairman: Mark Boniece, Vice Chair: Jeff Jennings, 6555 E. Southern Ave #2026, Secretary: Jeff Jennings, Corporate Treasurer: Tina Batt, Board Members: Kevin Bards Books Mesa AZ 85206 (480) 981-4850 McAlonan, Gary Swaty, Susan Uttke, Mike Willmoth. 3508 N. 7th St,Ste. 145, Phoenix, AZ Game Daze #4 Tucson Mall, 4500 N. 85014 (602)274-7530 Oracle Rd, #263, Tucson, AZ 85705 (520) Book Gallery 293-7940 CASFS Procedural Officers: President: Randall Whitlock, Vice President: Gary 3643 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix AZ Game Daze #5 Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Swaty, Secretary: Gary Swaty, Treasurer: Tina Batt. 85018 (602)468-0400 Broadway Blvd #258, 50 W. Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201 (480) Tucson, AZ 85711 (520) 745-0468 Additonal Officers: Historian/Archivist: Jim Strait, Quartermaster: Bob Beckwith, 835-0757 Game Daze #6 Webmaster: Craig L Dyer, Keeper of the Databases: Donald Jacques, ConNota- Book Krazy Chandler Fashion Mall, 3111 W. Chandler tions Editor: Patti Hultstrand 1601 E. Bell #4-5, Phoenix, AZ 85022 Blvd #2416, Chandler, AZ 85226 (480)- (602) 867-1018 8997406 CASFS Convention Officers -- CopperCon 31 Chair: Mark Boniece (Acting for Bookmans Game Daze #7 Arrowhead Towne Centre, the Board), Banker: Stephanie L Bannon. CopperCon 32 Chair: Bob LaPierre, 1056 S. Country Club, Mesa, AZ 85210 7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Ctr, #2256, (480) 835-0505 Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 979-5360 Banker: Stephanie L Bannon. 8034 N. 19th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021 Game Daze #10 (602) 433-0255 Arizona Mills Mall, 5000 Arizona Mills Attendance at the CASFS Bookclub and Social is increasing with a minimum of 1930 E. Grant, Tucson, AZ 85719 (520) Circle #530, Tempe, AZ 85282 (480) 491- eight at our recent discussions. Our discussions were July 19, 2011 - A Princess of 325-5767 0719 Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs, August 16, 2011 - The Left Hand of Darkness by 6230 E. Speedway, Tucson, AZ 85712 Game Depot Ursula Le Guin, September 20, 2011 - Signal to Noise by Eric Nyland and October (520) 748-9555 3136 S. McClintock #11, Tempe, AZ 18, 2011 - The Man with the Golden Torc by Simon Green. Next we discuss on 3733 W. Ina Rd, Tucson, AZ 85741 (520) 85282 (480) 966-4727 579-0303 November 15, 2011 - Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep by Philip K Dick and Gamers Inn on December 20. 2011 - Mystic and Rider by Sharon Shinn. The November book Books 1232 E. Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ social will be at Bookman’s 19th & Northern at 7:00 P.M., but December onward 9201 N. 7th Ave, Phoenix AZ 85021 Imperial Outpost (602) 678-4576 4920 W. Thunderbird, Glendale, AZ 85306 will be at a new venue to be announced. Dog-Eared Pages (602) 978-0467 16428 N. 32d St, Phoenix, AZ CopperCon 31 was held. Our Guests of Honor were Author Carrie Vaughn, Local OTHER ESTABLISHMENTS (602) 283-5423 Author Janni Lee Simner and M.R “Hilde” Hildebrandt. The convention was very Poisoned Pen Bookstore AJ’s Mongolian BBQ popular with the attendees. The Hotel loved the Convention and our attendees. 4014 N. Goldwater Blvd, Suite 101, 9620 N. MetroParkway W. #20, Phoenix We had 275 members when we needed 283 to break even. We needed 75 rooms to Scottsdale AZ 85251 (480) 947-2974 85051 (602) 944-6818 reduce our function costs to zero, we had 53. CopperCon 31 will not pay for those COMIC STORES All 4 Anime passed through to CopperCon 32. The hotel was good to us charging us only $500 Metrocenter Mall Ste. 2218, All About Comics for Function space when a strict enforcement of the contract would have rquired Phoenix, AZ 85051 (602) 997-0895 5060 N. Central, Phoenix, AZ (602) 277- a $1000 charge. Thus a portion of the seed money will be repaid. Things are not 0757 Barro’s Pizza looking good, but we are in rebuilding mode and there may be hope. Ash Avenue Comics & Books 2510 W. Thunderbird Rd, Ste 6, Phoenix, 810 S. Ash, Tempe, AZ AZ 85023 (602)866-8336 (480) 858-9447 BreadCrafters CopperCon 32 - (Bob LaPierre Chairman) Our Author GoH is Ari Marmel, Author Drawn to Comics 12635 N. Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85032 of Gehenna: The Final Night (2004), Agents of Artifice (2009), The Conqueror’s 5801 W. Glendale, AZ 85301 (602)494-4442 Shadow (2010), The Warlord’s Legacy (2011), The Goblin Corps (2011), and (623) 847-9090 Evermore Nevermore Household Gods (Coming in 2012). Check him out on his website at www. Gotham City Comics & Coffee 127 W. Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201 (480) mouseferatu.com. He has also worked as a developer of role playing games. Other 46 W. Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201 (480) 964-4624 Guests are in negotiation. The development of the Convention Committee continues Foothills Branch Library 649-3065 with appointment of the experienced Alice Massoglia as Programming Person. 19055 N. 57th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85308 Gregg’s Comics Most recently she ran programming for LosCon three years ago. Most Committee 2722 S. Alma School Rd, #8, Mesa, AZ (623) 930-3830 positions are filled, but we still need some experienced people to fill spots on the (480) 752-1881 Himmel Park Branch Library Hero Comics/Bookmaster 1035 N. Treat Ave Tucson, AZ (520) 791- committee. Neophytes who want Committee positions are encouraged to work as 13616 N. 43rd Ave, Ste 2, 4468 staff in the areas they are interested in. Glendale, AZ 85304 (602) 843-6320 Pop Cultures Paradise Jesse James Comics 707 S. Forest Ave #A, Tempe, AZ 85281 New Officers - In July Tina “Nyki” Robertson was elected President of CASFS 10620 N. 43rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85304 (480) 557-6640 and as a member of the Board. In September after CopperCon 31, she suffered (602) 993-0392 Toy Anxiety health and personal issues and resigned as Boardmember, Board Secretary, R-Galaxy Comics 13825 N. 32nd St, #15, Phoenix AZ 85213 President and CopperCon 31 Chairman. October 14th we held a Special Election (602)308-0292 2420 N. Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719 and she was replaced by Randall Whitlock as President(through December 2011) Trails (520) 322-0422 and Mike Willmoth as Board Member( through June 2012). The Board Chairman, Samurai Comics 2501 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ Mark Boniece, will hold the Chairmanship of CopperCon 31 during the closeout. 1051 E. Camelback Rd, (602) 957-4587 Phoenix AZ (602) 265-8886 Tucson Racquet and Fitness Club Jeff Jennings is the new Board Secretary. Tina Batt was elected Treasurer in July. 10720 W. Indian School Rd, 4001 N. Country Club Rd. 85716 (520) Stephanie Bannon stepped down as editor of ConNotations and Patti Hultstrand Phoenix AZ (623) 872-8886 795-6960 was appointed. Craig Dyer has stepped down as Database Administrator and GAME STORES Woods Memorial Library Postmaster. The new Postmaster is Tina Batt. The new Database Administrator is Game Daze #1 3455 N. 1st Ave, Tucson Donald Jacques. Paradise Valley Mall, 4550 E. (520) 791-4548 Page 2 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 SF TUBE TALK Continued from Page 1 is the Canadian series Lost Girl, staring Anna Silk as supernatural seductress ConNotations NewsZine Bryant), seem to Bo, a Succubus who feeds off sexual NEW Staff feel anything is energy. Raised by human parents, Managing Editor: Patti Hultstrand unusual. Yet, when Bo had no reason to believe she was Haven residents anything other than the girl next door Assistant Editor: Donald Jacques start disappearing -- until she “drained” her first boyfriend Web Administrator: Donald Jacques into thin air, Audrey to death. Bo discovers she is one of the Graphics Assistant: Hop David convinces Nathan Fae, creatures of legend and folklore, Special Artwork: Jason Youngdale they must find a way who pass as humans while feeding off Promotions Directors: Len Berger, to stop it. Wednesday them in secret. Bo decides to take the Richard Bolinski, Mark Boniece December 7 sees middle path between humans and the Proof Readers: Donald Jacques, Ghost Hunters Fae while embarking on a personal Gary Swaty look for the ghosts mission to unlock the secrets of her Science Editor: Craig Porter of Christmas Past origin, protecting humans along the and the Saturday way. Zoie Lamber co-stars as Lauren Columnists: PJ Hultstrand original movie is and Emmanuelle Vaugie guest stars as Gaming Editor: Jason Youngdale S n o w m a g e d d o n The Morrigan, the leader of the Dark Reviewers: Christina Paige, Jeffrey Lu with Michael Hogan, Fae. Staff Writers: Jeffrey Lu, Christina David Cubit and BBC’s Merlin is currently in its Paige, Gary Swaty, Lee Whiteside, Magda Apanowicz fourth series airing on the BBC in Mike Griffin, Randall Whitlock, Donald starring in a story the UK with Syfy starting to air it on Jacques, Shane Shellenbarger about a mystical January 6th. A fifth has been ordered Layout & Design: Patti Hultstrand snow globe that when by the BBC. Series Four sees Arthur shaken, makes very beginning to lead the Knights of the SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOW- ING IN THIS TRANSITION PERIOD: bad things happen in Round Table and take on the mantle of Cathy Book, Mark Boniece, Lee Whi- the real world. King as Morganna ramps up her plans to teside, Jason Youngdale, Craig Porter, In January, take over Camelot The two part opener and to all the new advertisers. Syfy sees the return The Darkest Hour sees Morganna seas of the pirates of the Caribbean and If your name has been deleted from this of Being Human on summoning the Callieach to rip open list, it is because you had not contacted the back alleys of Dickensian London Monday, January 16. The second season the veil between worlds, unleashing us about whether you wish to stay in to a world of pure imagination. The of Syfy’s hit drama picks up where a horde of Hellish creatures. It falls to your position or not, or we had heard miniseries stars Rhys Ifans as James you were leaving the position. If this is the explosive season finale left off. Arthur and his loyal knights, including not correct, please contact Patti at Hook, Keira Knightley as the voice Aidan tries to steer a leaderless Boston Lancelot, to protect the kingdom. Merlin [email protected] of Tinker Bell, Anna Friel as Captain while resisting his deadlier vampire realizes that it will take more than just Elizabeth Bonny, Bob Hoskins as Smee instincts, as he finds himself tempted swords to restore the barrier and it will ConNotations (ISSN: 1082-7765) is published six times a year by the Central Arizona (who previously played the character in and tormented by a figure from his require a “a sacrifice of unimaginable Speculative Fiction Society, PO Box 62613, Steven Spielberg’s feature Hook), Raoul past. Sally must face the consequences proportions”. Next up is The Wicked Phoenix, AZ 85082 Trujillo and Charlie Rowe as Peter of missing her door, while figuring out Day, which sees Camelot ready to Advertising: ConNotations reaches approx. Pan. On Tuesday, December 6th, the how to navigate life on earth as a ghost. celebrate Prince Arthur’s birthday, but 7,000 science fiction, fantasy, gaming and night kicks off with Eureka’s animated horror fans throughout the Phoenix metro Werewolf Josh searches for a cure for his in the midst of the celebration, Odin area, the Southwest and nationwide. Our ad Christmas episode Do You See What I condition while struggling to maintain has arranged for an assassin, leaving rates are: $180/Back cover, $125/ full page; See? Sheriff Carter and Allison Blake $85/two-thirds page; $65/half page; $45/ his relationship with Nora and, like the Camelot devestated. In Aithusa, a one-third page; $35/ one-fourth page; $25/ are planning a holiday surprise for their rest of his roommates, trying to build a mysterious stranger arrives with news one-eighth page. Discount for cash or check kids when a mysterious kaleidoscopic future for himself beyond simply being of a magical secret that threatens to payments. More information can be obtained by contacting Advertising, wave of color hits Eureka, leaving the a monster Also debuting on January 16 change the kingdom forever. He claims Submission Info: Writers and artists are entire town and its inhabitants animated. encouraged to submit work for publication. They will use several different animation While we cannot pay you for your efforts, your work will be seen by over 7,000 fans styles including stop motion animation across the Southwest and the country. You popular with many classic Christmas will retain the copyright to your work for future publication. To submit your work or for more specials. Guest star voices include information please email to: editor@casfs. Jim Parsons (as Sheriff Carter’s Jeep), org Edward James Olmos (as the leader of Disclaimer: Acceptance of advertising or listing a pack of sled dogs), Chris Parnell, and in club or convention notices or the calendar Matt Frewer. Warehouse 13’s homage does not imply formal approval or ownership of those events or clubs. In particular, CASFS to It’s a Wonderful Life, The Greatest does not warrant or authorize any club or Gift, Pete Lattimer is hit on the head event not held by CASFS. by an artifact and wakes up in a reality ConNotations ISSN: 1082-7765 where he was never born. Pete must hunt PUBLISHED: Six times a year down the members of the Warehouse BY: Central Arizona Speculative Fiction 13 team and convince them to join him Society, PO Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ on a mission that will set things right. 85082 Haven’s Silent Night Audrey Parker ISSUE NUMBER: (Emily Rose) begins seeing Christmas Volume 21 Issue 6 decorations mysteriously popping up all over Haven in the middle of July yet SUBSCRIPTION: nobody else, including Nathan (Lucas $25 for 6 ISSUES
Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 3 SF TUBE TALK Continued from Page 3
FROM THE DESK OF THE MANAGING EDITOR:
There are many things I could write about, but since the holidays are fast approaching, I will focus on being thankful. Thankful for WHAT? In this time when people are losing their homes, their jobs, and/or their businesses, how can anyone be thankful for the times we now live in? I don’t know about you, but the number of friends who are being diagnosed with different forms of cancer, has increased. Is this simply because I am getting older, with my life edging towards my fifty year mark? Or are there some other underlying health issues that we don’t know about now, that we find out about in another ten or twenty years, when science confirms that the preservatives we eat every day, will indeed kill us all eventually? Or maybe it’s environmental, with the track from those who believe in the decline of to have the key to the tomb of Ashkanar, been doing fair so far this season in the ozone layer? Or perhaps that there are just too many people in the world which contains the last dragon egg. the ratings. Vampire Diaries has been now, with some 7 billion people, and living like sardines in the inner cities Merlin is both excited by this news, but holding up in the ratings while new is what’s going to lead to humanities demise. also suspicious of the stranger and his series Secret Circle has been holding on If you are a science-fiction enthusiast, like I have been since reading intentions for the egg. to about 60% of the Vampire audience. “Martian Chronicles” by Ray Bradbury, you will know that these vintage Back in the UK, the fourth series All of the CW series return with new sci-fi authors have been toting doom and gloom when it comes to the human of Being Human is expected to start episodes the first week of January. condition for decades now. We don’t just spread our dirty laundry across on BBC 3 sometime in January, with Elsewhere on cable, FX’s American it to air on BBC America in the US Horror Story has performed well for our Earth, but if we get the chance, we would likely spread it across the sometime in the spring. There’s not the network and a second series of 13 cosmos. much information on the new season episodes has been ordered for it. In I had wondered whether cancer is more prevalent now then in centuries aside from Toby Whithouse indicating announcing the renewal, FX President before this one. Will more of us be ailing from this insidious killer in the that part of what is planned for series and General Manager John Landgraf centuries ahead? Of course, we have no answer to this, really. four is to re-establish the premise of a indicated “It’s one thing to have the So, as I tell my friends and relatives who are currently fighting all the vampire, werewolf and ghost sharing ambition and guts to reinvent a genre in different varieties of cancer; we can take some small comfort knowing a flat together. Joining the cast will be a way that makes it captivatingly fresh that we have more answers now then decades before us. More women are Damien Molony as very English upper for a broad audience - it’s something surviving breast cancer and I am personally happy to know that my Aunt class vampire Hal, who they have else entirely to have the craft to back (she knows who she is) is a colon cancer survivor. developed an extensive back story for. that ambition up. Ryan Murphy and But, no matter how optimistic I try to sound to these people who are Over on the broadcast networks, Brad Falchuk have hit the trifecta with living in the trenches of this disease right now, I am not in there with them, the new genre series have done fairly Nip/Tuck, Glee and now American so WTH do I know? While I have not gotten cancer (yet - and pray I die in well for themselves, with other dramas Horror Story, which will be scaring taking the hit in the ratings. Terra FX’s viewers to death for many years my sleep instead), I have already come so close to death from an infection, Nova debuted with decent, but not to come.” AMC has been happy with that I surprised death when I didn’t check out of this world about nine years outstanding ratings, but has held steady the second season of The Walking ago. So, you see, I do know something about fighting an illness and fighting for the most part although it did take Dead, ordering a third season already. for my life. There are many things that came out of that experience, but the a hit on Halloween. What will likely The series has been setting records for main ones were: We must live life as if tomorrow is the end for us, and be determine if it continues is how the adult demographics on basic cable and thankful for what little we may have right now. overall ratings hold up versus the cost of has also performed exceptionally well We are all where we need to be right now -- even if that is fighting for making the show. Grimm debuted with outside of the US. The series will take our lives from illness or from the economic conditions of our families. Take decent ratings for a Friday NBC show, a break during December and January stock in your blessings while they are still your blessings. I wish you and almost doubling the ratings of Chuck, and will return with the second half of yours a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year. See you in which makes it a good bet that NBC season two in February. 2012. will keep it on the air unless ratings On the animated DC side of things, ---- And that’s all I have to say about that. drop significantly. Over on ABC, Once Cartoon Network ended the run of Patti Hultstrand -- Managing Editor, ConNotations NewsZine Upon a Time debuted very strongly and Batman: The Brave and the Bold in overall ratings held up in the second November and debuted The animated and third weeks, even increasing in Green Lantern series with a one hour WhICh ChEST WOULd YOU RAThER hAVE ? some demographics., Returning series special. It is not clear when regular 1. The chest that is closed so there is a mystery of what it contains. Chuck saw a series low in its return and airings will commence on Green 2. Or the chest that is open and has what appears it is already intended to end after this Lantern, though. They continue to to be a full content of coins, but you can’t final run of 13 episodes. The question slowly roll out new episodes of Young be sure unless you dig in there to check. now is if NBC will keep it on the air for Justice, having started new episodes the full run. Fringe has had fair ratings in November after about a nine month and chances for it to continue past this stretch. They have ordered a second season look to be slim unless it picks season of the series, which will start up up steam. On the CW, Supernatural has at some point in 2012. CoN
Page 4 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 5 Page 6 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS
EVENT REVIEW: PIRATES FEAST Ever wonder what the glory days of Tortuga might have been like? The DREAD Fleet offered a glimpse on the evening of October 16th. Welcomed into Clan Everheart’s port of call thanks to the good word of the Fireland Faerie Nation, the pirates created a desert isle. Guests sipped knew who the pirate child was when, at the start of her duel, the lass drew a homemade lemonade (a fine non-alcoholic grog), beer and wine while the diminutive replica pistol. Children are so adorable. Fleet served up a bountiful buffet of tender, savory roast pork, honeyed Finally, the real sweet treats of the evening, a stunningly choreographed baby carrots, seasoned potatoes and buttery biscuits. Dessert was sinfully stunt fight between Captain Red Cap of Delirium and her First mate Calico sweet bread pudding topped with berry sauces and a bit of rum! Not a soul that wowed attendees with a flurry of blades, fists and Red Cap’s signature had excuse to leave the table hungry! elbow drop. The night closed with an intimate dance circle lead by AdeebA But, the meal was only the appetizer to this eventful night, the main Korsana and Sumomo of bint Hazine. The shimmying duo even taught some course, a clash of steel sure to be the talk of many a pirate. Rapier fighters of the pirates a few moves! of all levels faced off for a chance at a cash purse of $50.00 in gold coins. This Inaugural Feast is just one of many exciting events the DREAD Fleet Members of the DREAD Fleet, Empire of Chivalry and Steel and people Ships concoct. We are always looking for talented desert pirates wanting to who had never touched a blade outside of the kitchen before, displayed learn rapier fighting, belly dance, or choreographed stunt performance. valor and sportsmanship but it was a pirate who ultimately won the day. In Join the adventure! a spectacular display of swordsmanship, Theodoric Brandywine, Master at Arms of Despair, disarmed Lord Sir Kheldar of the ECS and won the day! Inaugural DREAD Feast Perhaps, the most notable confrontations of the evening included two Go Gilbert, Arizona -- October 16th, 2011 Daddy employees with no experience with the sword holding their own www.piratefeast.info -- www.azcorsair.ning.com against pirates even besting Maxmillion, Captain of Despair. Even the wee ones took up arms - foam ones but they still looked very cool - and joined in the festivities with their own tournament. Everyone
Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 7 (Animation) Buena Vista, Not Yet One For the Money (Action Rated Comedy) Liongate, PG-13, Actor- Katherine Heigel, Producer- Sidney Contraband (Thriller) Universal, R, Kimmel Director: Baltasar Kormakur, Actors- Mark Wahiberg, Kate Beckinsale, Rumors: Ben Foster Who will have the leading role in Joyful Noise (Music Drama) Warner the movie, “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies?” Blake Lively, by Jeffrey Lu Brothers, PG-13, Actors- Queen 24 Frames: Latifah, Dolly Parton Emma Stone, Natalie Portman, Mia Wasikowska, or Scarlett Johanson? Seasons greetings. A few sequels. The Iron Lady (Drama) Weinstein Friday, January 20, 2012 Few remakes coming. A season of Company, PG-13, Actors: Jim Kung Fu- T.V. Series into a movie? Haywire (Action) Relativity, R, new stuff. A present to behold from Broadbent, Meryl Streep (Warner Brothers) Actors: Ewan McGregor, Michael all months old. Reboot Popeye movie? (Sony) Carnage (2011) (Drama) Sony Douglas, Antonio Banderas In the Production News: Classics, R, Director- Roman Red Tails (Action/Adventure) Fox, Gary Oldman- Warner Brothers Polanski, Actors: Jodie Foster, Kate There will be a Smurfs sequel. Not Yet Rated, Producer- George wants him in two movies: The Winslet Release Date: August 2, 2013 Lucas (Executive), Actors- Bryan Colonel in “Akira,” and Merlin in Wednesday, December 21, 2011 Cranston, Cuba Gooding, Jr. “Arthur & Lancelot.” Only he will Dreamworks has acquired rights decide. to Roald Dah;s book, “The BFG.” The Adventures of Tintin Underworld Awakening (Action Release Date: Unknown. (Animation) Paramount, PG, Horror) Sony/Screen Gem, Not Yet Jennifer Lopez might star in “Where Director: Steven Speilberg, Voice Rated, Actors- Kate Beckinsale, in the World is Carmen Sandiego?” Tron 3 script in works. Release Date: Only she will know. Unknown. Actors- Daniel Craig, Simon Pegg, Michael Ealy Producers: Peter Jackson, Steven Parting Shots: Steven Speilberg plan to film, Speilberg Friday, January 27, 2012 “Robopocalypse,” next year. Release The Grey (Action Drama) Open Bill Murry as FDR? Not a Date: 2013? The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo Ghostbuster? Wish him well and (2011) (Thriller) Sony/Columbia, Road Films, Not Yet Rated, Actor: Liam Neeson, Dermut Mulroney hope he gets an Oscar in his Xmas Scream 5 in works. Release Date: Not Yet Rated, Actors- Daniel stocking, next year. Unknown. Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Man on a Ledge (Thriller) Summit Plummer Entertainment, PG-13, Actors: Sam Happy New Year, X-mas, and/or Clash of Titans 3- “Wraith of the other holidays! Titans,” Warner Brothers. Release Mission Impossible- Ghost Protocol Worthington, Elizabeth Banks, Ed Date: Spring 2012 (Action) Paramount, Not Yet Rated, Harris CoN Director: Brad Bird, Actors: Tom X-Men: First Class sequel in works. Cruise, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, Release Date: Unknown. Jeremy Renner Dirty Dancing remake. Liongate. Friday, December 23, 2011 - Release Date: July 26, 2013 We Bought a Zoo (Comedy/Drama) Bill Murry as FDR in “Hyde Park on Fox, Not Yet Rated, Actors- Matt the Hudson.” Release: 2012. Damon, Scarlett Johansson Andy Serkis will return for “Rise Sunday, December 25, 2011 - of the Planet of the Apes” sequel. Release Date: Unknown. The Darkest Hour (Sci-fi Thriller) Summit Entertainment, PG-13, Expendable 2 actors list: Sylvester Director- Chris Garak, Actors- Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Emile Hirsch, Olivia Thirlby, Rachel Dolph Lundgren, Chuck Norris, Taylor Randy Couture, Liam Hensworth, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bruce Warhorse (War) Buena Vista, PG- Willis, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. 13, Producer and Director- Steven Release Date: August 17, 2012. Spielberg, Actors- Tom Hiddleston, David Thewlis, Emily Watson December 2011/January 2012 Schedule: Friday, January 6, 2012 Friday, December 9, 2011 The Devil Inside (Horror) Paramount, Not Yet Rated Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked (Family Comedy) Fox, The Possession (Horror) Lionsgate, Not Yet Rated, Writers- Jonathan R, Actors- Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Aibel, Glenn Berger Kyra Sedgwick, Producer- Sam Raimi Sherlock Homes: A Game of Shadows (Adventure) Warner Friday, January 13, 2012 Brothers, Not Yet Rated, Actors: Robert Downey, Jr., Jude Law Beauty and the Beast (3D)
Page 8 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 Science Book Review: How do you go to the Bathroom in Space? Science Exploration by William R. Pogue, astronaut Tor 1999 The title draws one to satisfy your curiosity, though cloning possible. It would be possible it takes a few pages to get to the answer. The answers A Primer on for instance for a wealthy individual to are both enlightening, and entertaining. Most of Stem Cells grow copies of themselves and harvest the questions and their answers are timeless, a few By Michael Bradley organs and other parts as necessary to are dated. The charm of this volume is the sense of sustain their lives. These topics are rife adventure, and curiosity it inspires in the reader. It For the last several years there has with moral and ethical discussions and is difficult to put down once your interest is aroused. been much discussion and controversy consequences. There are bonus sections in the rear that provide around stem cell research but few have Master stem cells can be removed additional references for further study, and even taken the time to explain the issue from six cell embryos but still have in layman’s terms. This topic is too rejection issues. You can also attempt to groups to join and share space expeeriences with. critical to the future for the majority re-program an adult cell to a stem cell -- Reviewed by Donald Jacques of us to remain unaware. Each of us state, or you can de-nucleate a cell by began life as an egg from our mother removing its DNA and replacing it with Fiction Book Review: fertilized by a sperm cell from our the desired DNA. father. That fertilized egg contains one There have been verified cloning of I Am Diving deoxyribonucleic acid string (DNA) animals using stem cells, including the from the mother and one from the famous sheep Dolly. In that case, a skin father. Early on, these cells multiply cell’s DNA was placed into an egg cell Published by Joseph Valentinetti, increasingly by dividing into more cells. At this that had been “de-nucleated” by having Upland California, USA m a n i f e s t early stage, all the cells are alike, but its own DNA removed. This “reset” themselves. later, they will become a wide variety the egg to the new DNA and after “I AM DIVING” is a novel that of cells, including blood, bone, brain, being replaced in the uterus, a clone He and his shows the connection betweenJosel a nerves, and muscles. Before they split was delivered. A human ear has been wife visit what husband and wife through the worst into this variety, they are called “stem grown through a grafting process onto a they believe a cells”, because they can stem off to mouse. Other animal experiments have of times. It shows the desperate need memorial for become any kind of cell in the whole also been successful. to be loved and to love. The need to the crew of the Thresher to find that it is cell family. However, attempts with humans be there to support one another. The more than a memorial, it is a call to action For this reason, stem cell research have not been successful so far. In couple are beset by what appears to to avenge the death of the crew. Shortly has been funded to replace the cells of 2004, a Korean team claimed to have be a Post Traumatic Syndrome that after this Jack finds himself in Dallas those lost in people with paralysis, brain accomplished the feat of human cloning, threatens the husbands sanity and Texas on the day in November 1963 that injuries, burns, organ loss, Alzheimer’s but it was later proven to be fraudulent. challenges the wife’s ability to deal President Kennedy is assassinated and and many other conditions. The thought Recently, researchers reported they were with circumstances. The husband the Governor Texas, John Connolly is is if we can grow those tissues and able to place DNA into donated human has been removed from the Naval wounded. Shortly thereafter Jack returns restore them, these conditions can be eggs from women and create stem cells. Service due to an event that ended home and finds Teri asleep on their sofa reversed and cured. Two problems arise In this research, over 270 eggs thus in a Dishonorable Discharge that he however; first, getting the DNA from treated produced only two viable stem with the TV broadcasting the news from has tried to get set aside. Because of the patient into the cell; and second, cells. The method also involved adding Dallas. the mental problems that are a part of getting the cell to become the proper a third set of DNA, instead of the two This Novel is based on a letter received type of cell. Research using adult cells sets needed for continued growth. It is the husbands life he has a tendency to by Governor Connolly in August of has been easier to show results, as it not known how difficult it will be to use disappear from his home for periods 1963. It is a good story and it does have takes the actual type of cell from the this method and then remove the third of time that are unexplained. a few faults in spelling and word usage host and attempts to replicate them, set of DNA. Early on in the story Jack, the that a good proofreader would have eliminating these two roadblocks. In any case, it appears that future husband, and Teri, the wife, meet quickly corrected to make the story more At this point many may wonder why will hold more research into stem cells a newly wed couple in the bar and appealing. this practice of stem cell research is and the push to produce a human clone restaurant, young and on a quicky -- Reviewed by Craig D. Porter controversial. Other than a few lines continues. This research could change honey moon before he has to sail. of stem cells in use by the scientific everything as we know it in healthcare His assignment is aboard the USS community, new stem cells for research and will likely lead to increasing Thresher, a Nuclear Submarine under primarily come from aborted fetuses. legislation by politicians who only going Sea Trials. Pro-life advocates view using this vaguely discern the possibilities such The USS Thresher has weaknesses in material will encourage more abortions breakthroughs present. it’s design and manufacture that have and that using the remains of a fetus is CoN unethical. If life begins at conception, doomed the boat to an early demise, to Michael Bradley has appeared as an lie on the Atlantic Floor with it’s crew. they believe this to be murder. If life expert witness on health finance on begins at live birth, as some others several occasions and lectured on several When the problems with the Sub are believe, then it is simply using tissue. occasions regarding the pharmaco- submitted to the Navy, no action is There is additional controversy economic impacts of third generation taken and the boat sails into a disaster because if a stem cell can be successfully psychotropic medications, the benefits of that shakes the country. When Jack self-funded trusts, health savings accounts, implanted with DNA from another consumerism, legislation updates, and learns of this, his mental problems human and grown, it makes human cutting edge wellness initiatives.
Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 9 of the largest aviation Museums ion the world, and the largest non-government 5th 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm funded aviation museum in the United Model Airplane Make and Take (Chil- CALENDAR OF EVENTS States. The Museum maintains a col- dren 5 and older and their adult com- lection of more than 300 aircraft and panions.) spacecraft from around the globe, in- Program free with paid or member SCIENCE GROUPS Program cluding many rare and one-of-a-kind, admission. and more than 125,000 artifacts. Reservations are suggested - Con- 1:00 pm Simulated Space Mission tact Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER (Reservations Required) October pimaair.org 1st 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm FAMILY EVENTS 1:30 pm Nature of Light Presentation Model Airplane Make and Take (Chil- 12th 9:30 am - 10:30 am URL: http://www.azscience.org/ dren 5 and older and their adult com- NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION 2:30 pm Properties of Flight panions.) (Every second Saturday of the month.) November: (Whirlybirds) Body Depot Workshops every Saturday Program free with paid or member 12th 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm and Sunday: SETI Institute admission. IMAGINE ROCKETS (Children 8 11:30 am Monster Manual or Venom URL: hppt://www.seti.org/ Reservations are suggested - Con- years and older bring an adult to expe- 1:00 pm Busy Bones There are no scheduled events tact Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ rience the power of rockets. available at this time. pimaair.org Reservations are recommended - Con- ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Info for Media - Fact Sheets Available tact Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ URL: http://iho.asu.edu/events_lec- SETI Institute at a glance 8th 9:30 am - 10:30 am pimaair.org tures SETI History NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION The Future of SETI Research (Every second Saturday of the month.) 26th 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm BECOMING HUMAN: 8th 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm YOUNG FLYERS FUN (For children 30th ANNIVERSARY LECTURE TITAN MISSILE MUSEUM 4 - 7 years old and their adult compan- SERIES URL: hppt://www.titanmissilemuseum. IMAGINE ROCKETS (Children 8 ions). (for additional information on lecture org/ years and older bring an adult to expe- Reservations are required - Contact series go to iho.asu.edu/30thlectures) 1580 West Duval Mine Road, rience the power of rockets.Reserva- Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ All lectures will take place at 5:30 pm Sahuarita, AZ tions are recommended - Contact Mina pimaair.org at the Carson Ballroom, Old Main. The Open hours Monday thru Sunday from Staffod e-mail mstaffordpimaair.org Museum of Anthropology will be open 8:45 am - 5:00 pm. 22nd 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm from 7:00 to 8:00 immediately after AUTHOR SIGNINGS each lecture. The Titan Missile Museum south of Tuc- YOUNG FLYERS FUN Upcoming Signings / Events at son must surely be considered unique (For children 4 - 7 years old and their The Poisoned Pen Origin of the Genus Homo and a chilly reminder of the Cold War. adult companions). 4014 N Goldwater Blvd. Suite 101 Thursday October 6 5:30 - 7:00 pm. Go underground and see one of the old Reservations are required - Contact Scottsdale, AZ 85251 CHALLENGER SPACE CENTER Titan ballistic missiles watch the roll- Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ www.poisonedpen.com ARIZONA back silo door open, follow operations pimaair.org 1-888-560-9919 URL: http://azchallenger.org/calendar- at the launch control center, and watch 28th 5:00 pm - 9:pm of-events demonstrations of countdown proce- November 4 – John Connolly signs 21170 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria, AZ dures. Tours begin every half hour. NIGHT OF FRIGHT (Family friendly The Burning Soul and Infernals – 7 pm 85382; phone: 623-322-2001 To reach the Museum go south on I safe Halloween event). - Poisoned Pen 19 and take exit 69 to the Duval Mine Old fashion carnival games and a Cos- October: Road and follow the signs. November 19 – A Study in Sherlock Saturday October 1st tume Contest. Admission for this night is free for Anthology Event with editors Leslie 10:30 am Special Viewing The MOON SOCIETY PHOENIX (Legends of Flight) children under 12 and $12.00 for Klinger and Laurie R. King with other URL: http://www.msphx.org/ children over 12 and adults. contributors - 6 pm - Poisoned Pen 10:30 am Simulated Space Mission Contact Meghan Marum e-mail (Reservations Required) Meets the third Saturday of each month [email protected] November 29 – Diana Gabaldon at Denny’s on the month at 3:00 pm. November 5th 9:00 am - 4:00 pm launches The Scottish Prisoner at the 11:30 am Properties of Liquid Nitrogen Denny’s is located on the Southeast cor- Arizona Biltmore – 7 pm - Details via ner of US 60 and Rural Road. 12:30 am Properties of Flight TUCSON RC CLUB MODEL AIR Poisoned Pen (Whirlybirds) PLANE DISPLAY Saturday November 19th we will be December 3 – Holiday SF/F Authors 1:00 pm Simulated Space Mission reviewing the ongoing Chapter’s ongo- Join members of the Tucson Radio con- Event with many local science fiction (Reservations Required) ing projects, Lunar Agriculture, Lunar trol Club as they show off their aircraft and fantasy authors appearing. Details Homesteading, Lunar Ground Trans- in Hanger 4. TBA at the Poisoned Pen 1:30 pm Properties of Liquid portation, Lunar Industrialization and Free with paid or member admis- Nitrogen others. sion. Contact Mina Staffod e-mail Sunday, December 11 - Yuletide [email protected] Universe - Holiday SF/F Authors 2:30 pm Properties of Flight PIMA AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM (Paper Airplanes) Event with Kevin Hearne (The Iron - TUCSON 5th 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Druid Chronicles), Lisa McMann (The Sunday October 2nd URL: HTTP://WWW.PIMAAIR.ORG/ WINGS AND WHEELS Unwanteds) , Joseph Nassise (Eyes to 10:30 am Special Viewing 6000 E. Valencia Road A show case of historic military See), Janni Lee Simner (Faerie Win- (Legends of Flight) Tucson, AZ 85756 vehicles, aircraft, jeeps, trucks and ter), David Lee Summers (The Solar Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm motorcycles. Sea), and Sam Sykes (Black Halo) - 10:30 am Simulated Space Mission Last admittance at 4:00 pm Regular admission applies. Contact 2 pm (Reservations Required) 520-574-0462 Meghan Marum e-mail mmarum@ 11:30 am StarLab Planetarium pimaair.org The Pima Air & Space Museum is one Page 10 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 BID FOR LONDON IN 2014 FOR AUTHOR SIGNINGS WORLDCON Gamers CALENDAR: As taken from the website: Changing Hands Bookstore http://www.londonin2014.org/ GAME DAZE: IMPERIAL OUTPOST GAMES 6428 S McClintock Dr., Tempe London in 2014 - for the bid to bring the ALL EVENT CAN BE FOUND Federation Commander. 2nd ONLINE AT: http://www.gamedaze. www.changinghands.com 72nd World Science Fiction Convention, Saturdays, noon com/GameDaze-Whats-Happening.aspx RPGA. 1st Sundays or Worldcon, to London in August 2014. Saturday, December 3 - Christopher Monday Night Magic Standard The site for 2014 will be selected by GAME DAZE CORPORATE Format. Mon, 7pm. Paolini signs Inheritance - 2 pm at vote of members of the Chicon 7, 2012 1407 W. 10th Place, Suite #A-105 Burton Barr Central Library, 1221 N. Boardgames & Demo Nite. Worldcon. Between now and 2012, the Tempe, AZ 85281 Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004 Mondays & Thursdays, 6pm. bid committee will be publicizing and ARIZONA MILLS Magic Drafts. Tues, 7pm promoting the bid to science fiction fans Contact Changing Hands bookstore 5000 Arizona Mills Circle #530 War Machine. Wednesdays, 4pm for details on signing limitations. all around the world. Tempe, AZ 85282 Hammerhead 40K Club Meeting. (480.730.0205) Assuming the bid is successful, the Wed & Thurs, noon ARROWHEAD TOWNE CENTRE Hammerhead Club 40k www.changinghands.com convention will be held from Thursday 14 to Monday 18 August 2014 in the new 7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center #2256 tournament. 1st Wed, noon Glendale, AZ 85308 International Convention Centre, which Magic The Gathering League. Wed, 6pm B&Ns locations can be found at Friday Night Magic. Fridays, 7pm BN.com is part of the ExCeL exhibition centre CHANDLER FASHION CENTER complex in London’s Docklands. 3111 W Chandler Blvd #2416 SAMURAI COMICS Chandler, AZ 85226 AUTHOR EVENTS (check website for correct store location) MEET UP WRITING WORK- Under the Paradise Valley Mall 4550 E. Cactus Road #302 Yugioh Tournament. Sundays, SHOPS OR CRITIQUE GROUPS: Phoenix, AZ 85032 noon (Cmlbk) & Sat, noon (west Laughing Moon valley) East Valley Writing Workshop Superstition Springs Center Anime Club. Sundays, noon (west Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Laughing Moon Con is an opportunity 6555 E. Southern Ave. #2026 valley) at Village Inn in Mesa, AZ for veteran sci-fi/fantasy/comic book/ Mesa, AZ 85206 Pokemon. Sundays, 2pm (west and gaming fans to introduce their valley), Wed 5pm (Cmlbk) East Valley Writing Workshop Tucson Mall D&D Encounters. Wed, 6pm favorite hobbies to a new generation. 4500 N. Oracle Road #166 Every Sunday 1:00 PM at Shadow (Cmblk) Now more than ever we need kids Tucson, AZ 85705 Mountain Village - Main Clubhouse in Magic, The Gathering. Friday, to discover the world of comics, Scottsdale, AZ 6p (both stores), Tues, 6pm (west art & literature and the incredible Park Place Mall 5870 E Broadway Blvd # 258 valley), Sat 1pm (Cmlbk), Mon Publishing, Networking, and Marketing stories they hold within their pages. Tucson, AZ 85711 6pm (Cmlbk) Meetup -- FIRST Saturdays, monthly, Geared toward a high-school aged except in December. audience, the event has something Pop Culture Paradise Check web sites or contact stores for more Shadow Mountain Village - Main Club- 707 S. Forest Ave. #A, on ASU Campus info: for everyone. Guests include comic Tempe, AZ 85281 (480) 557-6640 house - 1pm - 3pm book artists, authors, paranormal Calendar: [email protected] 8780 E Mckellips Road, Scottsdale, AZ Game Depot, 480-966-4727 experts, and a burnout with K.I.T.T. or get calendar online at http://www. http://www.azscience.org popculture-comics.com/ READING GROUPS from Knight Rider. Attendees will http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/ have an opportunity to sample a Empire games storelocator/stores.aspx?x=y& The CASFS Book Discussion is wide variety of tabletop games, 1766 S Greenfield Rd #102, Mesa, AZ http://beyond.asu.edu held at: Bookmans - 8034 North 19th including author Todd VanHooser’s 85206 - 480-813-1525 http://www.bookmans.com http://www.borders.com/online/store/ Avenue in Phoenix (NWC 19th Avenue “Adventures Under the Laughing http://www.empiregamesaz.com/pmwiki. php?n=Main.Calendar LocatorView & Northern). Community Room in the Moon.” With only a $5 entry fee, back of the store. http://www.cemeterydance.com the event is easily affordable, and all GAMING & COMIC EVENTS http://www.contact-conference.org/ November 15, 2011 - Do Androids proceeds go towards school extra- DRAWN TO COMICS http://www.devastationevent.com/ Dream of Electric Sheep by Philip K curricular clubs. Held on December Marvel vs Capcom 1st Fridays 6pm http://www.drawntocomics.com Dick 17th, Laughing Moon Con will be HeroClix. Sat 1pm http://www.edgewebsite.com http://www.azchallenger.org held at Desert Edge High School, Sit-and-Sketch with local artists. 3rd Saturday, 6pm-8pm http://www.gamersinnaz.com/ 15778 W. Yuma Road in Goodyear, Check FaceBook for other events http://www.imperialoutpost.com WHAT THE HAY?? AZ. More information can be found http://www.library.pima.gov Competition in the mid-west with ideas from http://www.loftcinema.com/showtimes farm boys with too much time on their hands. on www.laughingmooncon.com. GAME DEPOT HeroClix. Wed, 5:45pm-8pm http://madcaptheaters.com/ D&D Encounters. Wed, 6pm-8pm http://www.pimaair.org Magic, The Gathering. Thurs, 6pm. http://www.poisonedpen.com Open Game Day. Fridays all day http://www.pspublishing.co.uk Flames of War Fridays 2pm http://www.pyrsf.com/catalog.html 30th Store Anniv, lots of events Aug 6 http://www.samuraicomics.com L5R cardgame Aug 20 noon http://www.scottsdalepublicart.org/ WarHammer 40K 2-day NOVA TheLibraryTheGallery.php tournament Sept 3-4 http://www.seti.org Magic the Gathering Celebration http://www.subterraneanpress.com/ Sept 10 noon http://www.titanmissilemuseum.org/ http://tucsoncomic-con.com/ GAMER’S INN http://tucsonfestivalofbooks.org/ Check website for upcoming events
Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 11 MOVIE/VIDEO REVIEW: The Three Musketeers By PJ Hultstrand When I saw the movie teasers, were completely over the top with a I stated to a friend of mine, “Now long sequenced fight on the rooftops this is taking the old classic that has of the palace. COME ON -- but then been redone more than any other again, didn’t we love those sort of movie I know, and finally gave it light saber fight scenes in Star Wars. some kick.” When I saw the movie, Does it really need to stay in a closer I was not disappointed by any lack reality just because the story was of action, fun or new moves. You based on historical rivalries between really need to leave the original the French and the English? novel by Alexandre Dumas at the Even though most sequences were door though, and just let yourself so over the top that they may as well have fun with this adaptation. have called it a historical fantasy; Otherwise, you will probably think I think the movie works as long they have gone over the top to make as you don’t take it or yourselves this a STEAM PUNK movie, (like too seriously. And for the women DUH) with its interesting gadgets viewers; there was enough eye candy and the da Vinci airship secrets. to keep us all happy. Every woman The swordplay is top notch and as has “their type” of man they love, and always with The Three Musketeers, we are lucky to get a smorgasbord of this is one of the main reasons I delectable sweethearts in this one. watch the movies. Some scenes Huzzah! CoN FAN FICTION: A Cthulu Christmas Story By Jeffrey Lu not approve of us being here but it’s one of my vices,” Grandfather said. He The pale boy made a face. patted his fat stomach, “I like to eat.” Seafood was not his favorite. With a conspiracy quiet tone, he continued, “Speaking of vices, your mom The elderly Whipple chuckled and aunts would have a fit if they knew what I have here,” said Whipple. and said, “Howie, it’s not so bad. Grandfather suddenly produced a small paper sack from his coat. He It’s the only restaurant open on added, “This is for you. Merry Christmas, Howie.” Christmas Day. Especially lunch Early that day, Howie received the usual presents from his mom and time!” two aunts- knitted sweaters, socks, homemade fudge, and shoes. He had Howie looked around the wondered where his grandfather was. When Whipple appeared later that Asian diner - tanks of live fish lined morning, Howie wondered if the elder forgot this important day besides his up in front of the shop. Inside, he birthday. Instead, his grandfather asked him to help with his business around looked around to see endless plates town. Howie agreed and now opened the brown paper bag. of seaweed, fish, and prawns moving Howie whistled. He looked at a book of poetry- a rare and forbidden to different size of tables. The smell one. was revolting to his stomach. He did The title said, “Tamerlane and Other Poems.” It was by “a Bostonian” Artwork By Jason Youngdale not care for the cooked molluscs, Grandpa Whipple said, “Child, this will not give you nightmares. crustaceans, and echinoderms in any form. But he wondered why his Hopefully, your mom and aunts won’t know who this ‘Bostonian’ is. grandfather, a businessman, brought him here to a corner with a small table Otherwise, they’ll throw this out to the trash cans like ‘The Raven’ and other only for two. horror stories.” Whipple nodded and whispered, “My doctor told me to go on a seafood “I know you’re sick most of the time but I know you love his work. diet. So, when I see food, I eat.” Maybe one day you can write something worthwhile. Be a Poe or poet? Or Howie’s eyes looked upward. It was going to be one of those days. Even both?” on Christmas. Howie thanked his grandfather for this wonderful Christmas present. He The old man grinned for awhile. He shrugged, “Okay, grandson, bad began to read while his grandfather enjoyed his lunch. joke. One reason I’m here is to try the sushi.” Afterward, Howie finished the book before dinner. A few he memorized The nine-year-old stared at him. “Squishy?” for life. He decided he will be like Poe. He will love this craft. “Close but no cigar, young one” said Whipple. “It’s eating raw fish.” Howie’s full name is Howard Phillips Lovecraft. Little Howie stared and turned a little shade of green. Later that night, Howie did not dream of sugar plum fairies but an odd “Don’t worry. This is an acquired taste. Your mom and your aunt would large octopus with wings...
Page 12 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 and the future all came together for the love for and the understanding of FEATURED those special events that could change heard how the forest came to be and we the forest, and the love of our people lives and define experiences. As I bided heard how it is home to many of our for the forest. Remember that without my time, waiting for the events to brother creatures. We learned how it it the forest will die and so shall all die. unfold, the sounds of the forest began provides the food and shelter for those You are entrusted with this message for to beckon me to come and join them; all that live within its boundaries. We heard the strangers. You are to remind those of my brothers, on this magical night. the Spirit tell how the forest’s effects go the ‘blood’ to listen to the forest again.” The wind began to softly sing its love far beyond itself, how it helps to warm, She began to fade away, to become part song in the branches of the trees with shelter and feed the strangers beyond of the environment surrounding us. I tunes that brought forth the ancestral itself. And how it helps to clean the called after her and said, “Why me, memories of other nights long ago. air and cause the rain to fall in other Spirit of the people?” Above the treetops, the full moon of places. Her reply came softly on the breeze. FICTION Indian Summer shown in its graceful As the Spirit finished talking to the “Because, my grandson, you are of the beauty, as small puffy clouds scudded one sitting by the fire, we could feel the ‘Blood’.” Suddenly, I was back at the by on the night wind’s breath. Slowly empathy of the other. Then we heard the camp fire, shivering in the cool breeze the moon mounted higher into the starry other one say to the Spirit of the forest, and feeling at home at last. Awakening night sky and the forest began to call me “My Brother, I will honor that which ______By Craig D. Porter again to come and join my brothers and has been told to me and I will honor the people of the forest. that which is yours, and I will teach the This was first written approximately Many years ago, as I sat beside my Off in the shadows, brother wolf others of my kind what they must know. fifteen years ago as an assignment for campfire, watching the bright tongues called again for me to come join him To keep faith with you for what you a writing class. It was and is meant to of flame, the brightly shining sparks in the hunt. Finally the urge to join my have given to them.” be a tribute to my Great, Great, Great emitted by popping embers of the fire brothers became more than I could resist. As the stranger stood and turned to the Grandmother, White Crane, English and listening to the sounds of the night We padded quietly through the forest others gathered around the clearing, he name Patience Crane, a young Indian with its whispering breeze as it caressed along the time worn paths, listening to repeated the promise to me and each of maiden that married an American the trees caused the fire to dance in the calls of our other brothers as they my brothers that were gathered there. Revolutionary soldier and bore him its playfulness. As I sat there, in that softly followed the many rituals of the Then as he faced me, I realized that three children. In the early 1800s she surrealistic place, I felt myself drawn hunt on this magical night. the stranger was in fact, me. And in that and thousands of Cherokee were ripped to this never-never land; the land that We tracked our brother, the hare, until instant, there appeared in front of me, a from their home in North Carolina and never was, but might have been or could he ducked into his burrow and then we Spirit of the people in the shape of an sent West to Indian Territory, today be in the future. followed brother squirrel to his tree den, old woman, dressed in beads, a white North Eastern Oklahoma. But, she did As the time slipped by, I began to feel as he safely scampered up its side and buckskin dress, buckskin leggings and not complete that journey, she died in into his home. We met brother moccasins. Her hair constrained only Eastern Tennessee at the beginning Bobcat this night also, hunting by a fur headband. of the trip. Her children survived the for his family and passed him She stood watching me for what trip and one became my Great , Great, quietly by. We ran after our seemed an eternity; her legs slightly Grandfather on my father’s mother’s sister, the Doe, until she safely spread and her arms crossed in front of side of the family. returned to her family and the her, and then slowly began to speak to protection of brother Stag. me. “My child, take from here tonight, CoN Gasping heartily, we stopped to drink from a stream that meandered through the forest. Quietly following the stream toward the center of the forest, we surprised brother Possum and ran him up a tree. Oh, what a grand night this was, exhilarating and full of light-hearted fun. Brother Wolf and I sat and reveled in each other’s company, contemplating this night’s fun. It was one of those nights that you never wanted to end. the presence of the forest spirits draw Then, off in the distance, we sensed nearer and nearer bringing with them a strangeness in the night air, an the comfort of their presence. Then the uneasiness, as if calling us to a place of touch of my Scout uniform seemed to importance for some unknown reason. change into the feel of soft buckskin As we silently neared the place that had breeches, moccasins, vest, and there was beckoned us, we moved warily, cautious even a medicine bag about my neck. At of each and every step and sound that my side, I could sense the light touch of came to us; ready at a seconds notice to a blow gun and the thistle darts for it. take to our heels if need be. Off to the right of the fire, I saw a light Finally we came to a small clearing in glistening off the eyes of my brother, the forest, where there stood a Spirit of the wolf. Then off to my left I could the forest softly speaking to a stranger hear my brother the owl, softly calling who sat there. We looked around and me from the shadows to come hunt with seeing others who had come before us, him. Then he was gone, off with a soft that were quietly sitting, we also sat as flutter of his wings in the cool evening quietly as possible. breeze. We began to hear and to listen with This night was becoming one of those the rest of our brothers, as the Spirit special nights when the past, present explained the forest to the stranger. We
Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 13 MOVIE/VIDEO REVIEW: Real Steel By PJ Hultstrand
I must admit up is set In 2020, where humans front that I would have been replaced by robots have gone to see in boxing. Definitely a science- this movie just fiction story line, but the father- to enjoy another son kindled relationship set with Hugh Jackman the underdog “Rocky” boxing flick, but I was story, greatly overshadows the very surprised at fantastical idea of the movie. how great it was These factors, along with the and how much the action packed ending would entire theater got even make my father happy to into the action. Yes, there was plenty see this one in the theater. That is, of action, especially the rip roaring as long as I don’t tell him that REAL ending that left us all cheering for STEEL is really a sci-fi movie. the underdog, made winner. But, this The story line really isn’t new, movie also had a REAL story that but what it offers the movie goers and holiday offerings? It probably is was set with STEEL performances by is a refreshing change to the usual doing better than expected because not only Jackman as Charlie Kenton, foray of horror movies or over-done of its timeliness in October and into but from his co-actor, Dakota Goyo, sequels. Would this one have done as November, well before the holiday (the preteen son Max). well in the prime-time movie seasons, movies take center screen. However, The premise of the story, which along side the summer blockbusters this is a feel good, family oriented movie with a box office favorite, with Hugh Jackman, which I think would have done well, no matter what the season. For those who didn’t get enough of this movie and its kick-butt robots, there is a viral website with simulated fights from Zeus and others. You can even build your own fighting robot online at http://www.wrb.com/
CoN
Page 14 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 CONVENTION ANNOUNCEMENTS Convention Listings REVIEWS: November 19-20, 2011 - 5th Annual Phoenix SPECULATIVE LITERATURE FOUNDATION Fireland Faerie Festival at Estrella Mountain ANNOUNCES GULLIVER TRAVEL GRANT Park, Goodyear AZ. http://www. SPOOKY EMPIRE’S ULTIMATE WINNER westerngatesfaerierealms.com/ HORROR WEEKEND: October 7-9, PhoenixFaerieFestival.htm 2011 at Wyndham Orlando Resort SPECULATIVE LITERATURE FOUNDATION PO Box 1693 December 3, 2011, 7-930 PM - Fiesta of Light By Michael D’ Ambrosio Dubuque, IA 52004-1693 Electric Light Parade in Phoenix, Central Ave from Spookie Empire is a full-scale horror convention Montebello to Camelback to 7th St. then Indian [email protected] - School This year’s theme is “Silver Bells.” held in Orlando the first weekend in October at http://www.speculativeliterature.org/ the Wyndham Resort Center. They also host a http://phoenix.gov/parks/calendar/index.html convention over the Memorial Day weekend For Immediate Release: Nov 1, 2011 called Mayhem. They host a star-studded lineup December, 2011 (date and time TBD) - Mainly on that included Clive Barker, Sam Trammel and The Speculative Literature Foundation is delighted the Train* SWCG Road Trip. Take a ride on the Kirsten Bauer from True Blood, as well as Lance to announce that Ibi Zoboi is the winner of the 2011 Arizona Eastern Railroad’s “Copper Spike” train Henrickson and an assortment of actors, producers Gulliver Travel Grant. from Globe, Arizona. Costume and authors. Zoboi will use the $800 grant to travel to Haiti and encouraged. http://www.copperspike.com/ The dealers hall is very unique compared the Dominican Republic to research her YA dystopian novel set in both countries. She was born in Port- to dealers areas at many conventions. There DarkCon (January 12-15, 2012) Steampunk - au-Prince, Haiti, and had always loved the magical Fantasy - Gaming Convention. At the Phoenix were horror dolls, horror-themed housewares, aspects of the Haitian literary tradition. She has been costumes, masks, tattoo artists, and many of the Marriott Mesa 200 North Centennial Way, Mesa published in Crossed Genres, Haiti Noir, and Dark AZ 85201. Guests of Honor: Author Jacqueline more familiar items. The evening entertainment Matter: Reading the Bones, among others. was highlighted with bands playing into the wee Carey; Actors Doug Jones, Meg Foster; Makeup The Travel Grant judges said of Zoboi’s entry, Guru Bill Myer; Artist Ruth Thompson and hours of the morning and parties, parties, parties! “The sample story was provocative and haunting, Game Designers John Wick & Ken St. Andre. In another area, authors manned tables and and stayed with us for weeks after reading it. This, hosted discussion panels on a variety of topics. combined with the knowledgeable treatment of the Membership $40 thru 12/31/11, $50 at the door. The amazing thing about the convention is how subject and the compelling project idea, made it a Paypal available, Room rates $109 S/D/T/Q. Hotel accessible the guests and participants were. When clear winner.” phone: 800-835-9873. Website: www.darkcon. attending this convention, it is recommended Also shortlisted were: Tiffani Angus, Lillian org. email: [email protected]. Workshops, that you stay at the Wyndham to maximize your Cohen-Moore, Hunter Liguore, Kirsty Logan, Valya Gaming, Demos, Merchant Room, themed Social exposure to the activities both day and night. At a Dudycz Lupescu, Sandra McDonald, Kate Milford, Events, much more. Trina Phillips, and Hilary Smith, for their unique rate of $69.00/night, one can hardly go wrong. and thought-provoking submissions, which made February 25-26, 2012 - Vul-Con gaming The Wyndham is located in an ideal location at the selection of the eventual winner a difficult but Sand Lake and International streets just beyond convention at the Phoenix Convention Center. enjoyable process. http://www.vul-con.com/ the convention center where most restaurants and CoN shops are within walking distance. Con-Nichiwa 2012 - March, 2012 http://www.con-nichiwa.com/ Holiday Inn Palo Verde - Tucson, AZ This is primarily an Anime convention but will also have some additional programming tracks.
April 6-8, 2011 - LepreCon 38 at the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel in Tempe, Arizona features guests Franchesco and Joe Haldeman. http:// www.leprecon.org/.
May 11-13, 2012 - Costume-Con 30* “Sands of Time” at the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel in Tempe, Arizona. http://www. costumecon30.org/CC30 News
KimeraCon 2012 - May 11th - 13th, 2012 http://www.kimeracon.com/Kimeracon/Home. html -- Phoenix Mesa Marriot - Mesa, AZ This is a new con for 2012 and advertises that it is a con for many genres’: Fantasy, Gaming, Science Fiction, Anime/Manga, J-Fashion, Music, and Pop Culture.
Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 15 young adult one can feel their emotions to destabilize the Soviet Union so the as they try everything against all odds to general can sieze power. finish the Weevil once and for all. In the supporting we have Lois Lane In Our Books This series has proven to be a classic as the serious, dedicated girl reporter that I feel rivals Star Trek and Star Wars we all knew and way back in the fifties. for originality, imagination, character She has endless energy for her work, is uniqueness and credibility. I really heedless of danger and has a soft spot GATEWAYS satisfying for me, I’d rather read a felt as though the events in the series, for Superman. She even likes Clark, but ed. by Elizabeth Anne Hull novel. But this has got to be the most especially in Galaxy of the Damned, only as a distant second to the caped Tor, $15.99, 416pp enjoyable anthology I’ve ever had the were really occurring. This is a series hero. Jimmy Olsen remains the brash, pure pleasure of reading. you need to read for yourself to feel the enthusiastic and eager iphotographer. He Fred Pohl’s wife, adventure. Elizabeth Anne idolises Clark and Lois and especially Each author contributed an Afterword The most striking part of the series Superman. Hull, assembled this with their anecdotes of Fred Pohl, his was, without a doubt, the ending. book as a birthday In the secret identity departmen influence on their work/life, and/or Several things happened earlier in the Bruce wayne is retaking control of present for Fred. She an homage to his accomplishments. series that were stunning but the ending gathered together an Wayne enterprises from board members Interspersed between the stories are nearly brought tears to my eyes. It is a subverted by Luthor. Clark Kent is busy amazing assembly Appreciations from several writers shame that this series had to end. Each of writers who falling in love with Lois and is always who weren’t able to send a contributing and every adventure left me on the edge strangely absent when important events were influenced by piece. All of those memories add up of my seat wanting to know if Will, or loved Fred. I can only imagine the occur. to a very affectionate portrait of this Shanna and their friends survive. Their The plot revolves around an engineered lineup she might have gotten even 20 man who has had an enormous effect adventures were far from a walk in the years earlier. The list is a veritable who’s neuclear strike, a death ray, a secret on our favorite genre. I wish I had had park as their lives were quite indicative island laboratory and a fake invasion who which, of itself, says quite a bit the chance to know him. ~~ Catherine of how difficult things would really be about Fred Pohl’s existence. Some are from space. Lois is rescued repeatedly. Book. - Catherine Book in an interspecies environment flooded Jimmy takes pictures. Batman saves short, some long, all are extraordinarily with mistrust and delicate treaties. professional. Superman. Superman returns the favor. Galaxy of the Damned I highly recommend Galaxy of the Much turmoil ensues and all ends as it by Michael D’Ambrosio Damned, but after reading the first three should and always did for fifties Super David Brin has quite a long piece that Helm Publishing; 2012 books in the series: The Eye of Icarus, Heroes. was fascinating to contemplate. The Dangerous Liaisons, and The Devil’s Eisensteins’ was quite amusing. Joe Galaxy of the Kevin J. Anderson has brought back Playground. Perhaps one day, we’ll see an era of Comic Book wonder that I Haldeman’s was a bit disturbing. James Damned was a these in a movie format - one can only Gunn’s left me a bit dry, I didn’t finish surprising ending for had forgotten. I would recommend this hope. book to anyone. It is still available as a it. I was a bit disappointed in Gregory the Space Frontiers - Jessie Timmins (Akron, Ohio) Benford’s & Elisabeth Malartre’s Series. As Will and new book. - Gary L. Swaty offering - it was way too reminiscent Shanna struggle Enemies and Allies of Jean Auel’s stories. Vernor Vinge against seemingly by Kevin J. Anderson Tesseracts 14 was typically brilliant. While I enjoyed i n s u r m o u n t a b l e William Morrow/HarperCollins , New York, Strange Canadian Stories. Edited by John N.Y., 2009. Hard Cover, 326, $26.99. the piece from Greg Bear, I was at a obstacles in their Robert Colombo and Brett Alexander loss to connect it to our genre. The efforts to defeat the Savory. Edge Publishing, 287 pages TPB, long short story from Frank Robinson Weevil, their plans are jeopardized This is a book for $17.95 was chilling and ugly and oh-so-well- as an unexpected alien race, the those who love the written. “King Rat” by Gene Wolfe Calamaari, joins in the hunt to destroy old Superman and Oh those wacky was just ....charming although that them. Their love for each other and Batman comics of Canadians. Once might not be the way anyone else their determination to end the alien war the 1950’s. Batman again we have an would characterize it. Although Harry once and for all leads them to a plan that and Superman anthology of some Harrison’s Stainless Steel Rat stories has the potential to end the war. When verses Lex Luthor. It of their best science are some of my favorites, I would have Shanna becomes infected by the blood is an homage to the fiction, fantasy and wished for something new rather than of the new Calamaari leader after a Suerman and Batman horror stories with the first chapter of his last book. raid on their base, she suffers through a of yesteryear. Batman as the ultimate some poetry thrown mutation that threatens to make her more vigilante and Superman with his faith in in. Overall, the Jody Lynn Nye wrote the most human of hideous than the Calamaari themselves. Law, Truth, Justice and The American editors called the all the stories, a perfect delight. While I Will incorporates new allies to help stop Way. There is a certain disharmony stories dark fantasy, and you may take like Brian Aldiss, I didn’t really care for and reverse the mutation before it’s too in their views of how things should that to mean that they don’t necessarily his story at all, couldn’t see the point. late. The action continues at a feverish be done – idealism verses grim stark have a happy ending. For example, Ben Bova had a lovely laugh-out-loud pace as they approach the end with a reality. Light and Darkness coming to Matthew Moore’s very realistic ‘The final line and his story was, I think, the plan that looks to end the Weevil threat tems and working together. Machinery of Government’ describes the only one that had a direct relationship once and for all until someone from the As villains we have Lex Luthor with chaos of a military invasion of Canada with his Afterword. The second best past turns up seeking revenge against his self-centered mad passion for wealth by an unknown Army. Not that I am any laugh-out-loud final line came from them. and power and the Russian General, expert on the old pulp magazine Weird Sheri Tepper. I could feel the frustration Will and Shanna’s relationship is Anatoly Cerdov, with ambitions to rule Tales, but I get the impression that if of Mike Resnick’s characters - caught not only inspirational but leaves one the Soviet Union. To complicate matters you like that then you will like this. in the vacation of a lifetime... and no rooting for them every step of the way. for Superman the general is mining a - Mike Griffin way out. Cory Doctorow’s made me With the loss of several friends, they strange green substance from a 1938 feel simple. Not sure I really got it. are driven to finally achieve peace and meteor srike in Siberia. Luthor and lead a normal life with their barely seen the general wants to create immediate Anthologies are not always that daughter, Marina. As a parent, one can neuclear danger to increse the number sympathize with their plight, while as a of defense contracts Luthor has and Page 16 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 the short story, “The Trials of Isador.” FEATURED FICTION: Graphic Novels/Manga/Others: A different kind of Space Marine that by Jeffrey Lu has a shadowy past. Interesting concept. Let E.T. Ride Recommended to dark sci-fi war readers by Dwayne Albert Bearup GRAPHIC NOVELS fi readers and/or Warhammer 40,000 and/or Warhammer 40,000 fans. and MANGA: fans. “Mister Wilson? I’m Doctor 7) The World According To Groucho Peterson. The nurse tells me you 1) Chew Volume Four: Flambe by 4) Warhammer 40,000 Imperial Glory Marx by David Brown, Michael believe you may have contracted a John Layman and Rob Guillory, by Richard Williams, Black Library, O’Mara Books Limited, $12.95, 160 parasite of some kind?” Image, $12.99 $8.99, 410 pp. pp. “Of some kind? What are you, blind? Look at me!” This is the further Dr. Doom and One last battle is “There’s no call for rudeness Sir, adventures of needed for this Loki are plotting nor for ventriloquism. I can only psychic eater Tony Brimlocks’ imperial to take out Thor. Chu, the cibopathic army to retire and Will friends of Thor help you if you can tell me what’s federal agent of colonize a new world be able to counter wrong... though I must say I see no FDA. He will not in peace. Not only do this threat before outward signs of any parasite. Is it only find his cases the men have issues, Thor is seriously under the Johnny?” strange but also a but the enemy is damaged? This is “Under the... look Doc, that’s not no win situation that brutal and unending volume three and my name but I guess you could say final with J. Michael might cost him his job. Need to read - orks. Will there be it’s under me. It won’t let me do volumes one to three to understand Straczynski. Need to read the other two any survivors after the war is done? anything, go anywhere I want to go. what is happening. Winner of Harvey to know what is happening. Good story. Dark. Tragic. Well done. Recommended I’m only here because it wouldn’t go Award and continuing Will Eisner to dark sci-fi military readers and/or Recommended to Marvel Thor graphic Comic Industry Awards. Rated M- Warhammer’s 40,000 fans. novel fans. where I told it too. And I can hear Mature. Extreme cartoon violence. Sick it trying to think--a task for which it and twisted. Irony. Dark. Good stuff. 5) The Iron Druid Chronicles: the Slayers will be the new enemy. And is tremendously ill-equipped I might Recommended to fans of Chew. Hammered by Kevin Hearne, Del Rey, oh yes, Buffy’s sister, Dawn, changes add.” $7.99, 326 pp again. “I... I don’t follow you, Mister 2 ) Hellsing Vol. 10, Kohta Hirano, This is volume five. Helps to read Wilson. Why don’t you just lay Dark Horse and DMP, $13.99, 190 pp. After a few the last four to know what’s going on. down and let me take a look at you, Recommended for mature audience. adventures, Atticus hmm?” This is the monster Violence. Liked it. Definitely different in is now committed to “Listen, Doc, I’m trying to tell you, “war” conclusion pay off a debt with vampire TV reality show. Entertaining. it won’t obey my commands. I’ve of series Hellsing. friends and allies: Recommended to Buffy The Vampire What seems to end hunting Thor, killer Slayer fans. been trying to get this lummox to is only the beginning of innocents. What turn around and walk me back to my and a beginning of will be hard will not OTHER BOOKS: ship for days but it won’t cooperate. an end... For Readers be finding Thor but When I realized it had brought me to 13+- Violence, Mild the aftermath - someone or some thing 1) Flashforward by Robert J. Sawyer, this primitive medical facility I was language. Need to is hunting him back on Earth. This is the Tor, $7.99, 319 pp. terrified--I’ve seen your species’ read first nine to know what is going on. third book of the series. Need to read movies--but now I understand it Dark. Plot twist. Interesting aftermath. In a time of less then the other two books to understand what may be my only hope of getting free Comical but sad. Recommended to is going on. There are some comical three minutes, the of this body and going home.” horror action graphic novel fans. moments. Overall, good. Surprise people of Earth blacks ending on one of Atticus’ friend. out. Millions die “What is... Mr. Wilson, what is 3) Warhammer 40,000 Salvation’s Creepy. Recommended to urban fantasy from plane crashes, wrong with your hair?” He stepped Reach by Dan Abnett, Black Library, fans and/or The Iron Druid Chronicles car accidents, and back in alarm, reaching behind his $24.99, 314 pp. followers. accidents. But some back for the door knob. Unable to are able to see one’s lay his questing fingers upon it he Gaunt and his team 6) Warhammer 40,000 Dawn of War: future in six months tried to turn his head, but found he time. This is a story are going for broke Blood Ravens- The Dawn of War was unable to move. to raid Salvation’s of a few scientists at CERN’s Large Omnibus by C S Goto, Black Library, “Don’t bother trying to run, Doc,” Reach for some $11.99, 767 pp. Hadron Collider and how they live intelligence on their through these strange times. Enjoyable. the parasite said, pulling itself to enemy. This may be Here are the stories A possibility even though it’s fiction. the front of Mr. Wilson’s skull, its the turning point for of Blood Ravens Recommended to fans of Robert J. tendrils pulling out of his brain with the Sabbat World Space Marines led Sawyer and/or futuristic what-ifs. a wet slurp. “I can control you from Crusade. This is the by Captain Gabriel here.” thirteenth book of the Gaunt’s Ghosts Angelos to battle As Wilson’s now lifeless body series. It is also the second book of orks, eldars, and pitched forward, the parasite the Victory section. Need to read the other enemies of the projected one last, ecstatic thought: first twelve to know what is going on. Empire. This tome “The boys on Tau Ceti were right... Excellent. There are a lot of surprises. includes the novels, the smart ones are definitely easier to Realistic. Dan Abnett is the epic master Dawn of War, tame.” (Add the parasite jumping.) of future war. Looking forward to his Dawn of War: Ascension, and Dawn other books. Recommended to dark sci- of War: Tempest. This also includes Submit to Weird Tales... Or Brevity. Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 17 An American in Iberian Peninsula Part Six: An Aquarium in Genoa Convention Listings: DarkCon (January 12th-15th) at the Hotel nothing. I stared at her for a moment. By Jeffrey Lu was about but there were turtles talking Marriott of Mesa on Centenial Way. Guesta I then pointed at one sign, “Amazon.” about the ecology systems. of Honor: find the list on DarkCon ad page She had a frown on her face. I then My first stop before going to my Iberian Fourth, there was a hummingbird 8, Cost $40 or $50 at the door. Room rates pointed the top sign on the window Peninsula was to go to the birth place of exhibit that one had to pay extra. Sadly, $109 and hotel sells out fast. Website: above the tank. Her mouth opened and http://www.DarkCon.org Christopher Columbus, Genoa. When I these birds were afraid of visitors and her eyes were like saucers. The sign was there, I met a few old friends and tried to flee to the deepest box/nest they LepreCon 38 (April 6-8, 2012) Artist said, “Piranha.” I later found out the talked about old times and about this could find. Being a hummingbird fan, Guest of Honor; Franchesco! Author Guest management feed these creatures at area. I was disappointed but hope they were of Honor, Joe Haldeman; Local Artist GoH, night. Some has mentioned an aquarium. not mistreated. Mark Greenwalt; Gaming GoH, Todd Another was a petting pool. Yes, one So, I decided to research this and found Last, there was a “Finding Nemo” VanHooser; Music Artists GoH, Jeff & can pet a fish. Stranger than fiction. To Maya Bohnhoff. Website: www.leprecon. this on the web: exhibit. This had all the fishes from me, the feel of the fish was slimy but it org/lep38 The Aquarium of Genoa (in Italian: clowning fish to regal tang. Amazing was alive and moving. My lady friend eMail: [email protected] Acquario di Genova) is the largest how small these creatures were. petted hers but this fish seems to be aquarium in Italy and the second largest Overall, I liked it. The different tanks CopperCon 32 (Aug. 31 - Sept. 3, 2012) taken by her. It followed her to the rim in Europe. Built for Genoa Expo ‘92, the had different waters from Mediterranean Author Guest of Honor; Ari Marmell, Local of the pool. Aquarium of Genoa is an educational, to the Caribbeans. I look forward to Author Guest James A. Owen. Cost: $40 Next, we went to a small theater. thru August 15, 2012 - More at the door. No scientific and cultural centre. Its mission seeing more aquariums. There was a 3-D movie in Italian about checks or credit cards will be accepted at is to educate and raise public awareness as Coming Soon: An American in Iberian fifteen minutes. Not exactly sure what it Peninsula Part Seven: Malaga, Spain con. Website: www.coppercon.org regards conservation, management and eMail: [email protected] responsible use of aquatic environments. It welcomes over 1.2 million visitors a year. Control of the entire environment, including the temperature, filtration, CLASSIFIEDS: and lighting of the tanks was provided Clash of Steel Miniatures by local Automation Supplier Orsi www.clashofsteel.biz Automazione, acquired in 2001 by Hand-cast pewter 25mm and 54mm Siemens. The Aquarium of Genoa is co- miniatures. Custom mold-making ordinating the AquaRing EU project. It services, rules, and games. also provides scientific expertise and Classified Ads for Great Price a great deal of content for AquaRing, Five lines + one headline including documents, images, academic ONLY $5.00 per issue for two months content and interactive online courses, in Printed version of ConNotations via its Online Resource Centre.[40]” NewsZine and in the new website (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genoa) in October. Email us your copy: Later, I tried to find anyone to join me [email protected] for this sightseeing tour. A lady friend of mine told me others have already gone but she would like to come along. So, we went to find this aquarium. At first, I thought this was a mistake. No big buildings. No large arenas. Just imagine the outside had hodgepodge truck trailers connected up-and-down with side-to-side near the port. The place is suppose to look like a cruise ship. But my English lady friend insisted this was Europe’s best aquarium. With great reluctance, I went in and paid the admission. Within, there were different climate controls for a vast number of animals from penguins to manatees. Some of the tanks had the usual stuff- sharks, dolphins, and penguins. But there were a few things that surprised me. One seemed to be a tank with a school of contented fish. They stood there with mouths opening and closeing. My lady friend ran by the exhibit not knowing what this was. I looked carefully at the exhibit. All of them had a red bottom. With one of my eyebrow lifted, I looked up at the sign near the exhibit. My English companion told me this was
Page 18 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6 MIB Arizona Cell Leader at MIB.6361@gmail. com more information contact: MVD Ghostchasers--Debe . We are also recruiting new MIBs in some areas of Branning, Director--480-969-4049 Web page: www. SUPERSTITION SPACEMODELING SOCIETY - Club Listings: Arizona. If you’re interested, contact us. You can also mvdghostchasers.com or [email protected]. is Arizona’s club for builders of model and high-power find additional information about us on our Facebook rockets and those who love to see them fly. Launches So you live in North Phoenix ACROSS PLUS - group, Arizona Men in Black. ORANGE COUNTY SCIENCE FICTION CLUB - are held on the second Saturday morning of each month and are interested in anime? Well there is a club out meets last Wednesday of every month (except Dec.) in Rainbow Valley. SSS hosts the annual G. Harry there available for you people. Across Plus is a social BASFA - Local Tucson science fiction group that in Fullerton. The meetings are built around guest Stine Memorial Rocket Launch every October. Visit club that discuses anime, video games, manga, other puts on TusCon. Contact us at PO Box 2528, Tucson speakers. We’ve had authors such as Octavia Butler www.sssrocketry.org for membership information, animation, and the Japanese culture. We meet at AZ 85702-2528 or [email protected] our website at and Greg Benford. Non-members are welcome. For directions to the launches and meetings, and to read Bookman’s on 19th Ave and Northern on Sundays at http://home.earthlink.net/~basfa/. details of current events and location see our website the monthly newsletter, “Newton’s Minutes.” 7:00pm until 9:00pm. In general, we explore anime, www.ocsfc.org or email [email protected]. manga, and other styles of animation, creative educative CENTRAL ARIZONA SPECULATIVE FICTION TARDIS is a Phoenix-based General SF/ Fantasy Fan demonstrations, participate in interactive discussions, SOCIETY, INC. (CASFS) - The non-profit PAReX - is a non profit organization dedicated to Club, specializing in International media SF/Fantasy attend local Arizona conventions, and make cosplay. corporation that puts on CopperCon conventions, building and promoting Autonomous robotics. The since 1983. TARDIS meets every two weeks at We are willing to gain any new members out there SmurfCons, HexaCons, occasional regional cons, club has been in existance since 1998. Meetings are different locations around the valley. Activities include who are interested. Our members are very friendly, and publishes Con-Notations. Best described as SF/F currently conducted twice a month at two different watching videos, discussions, parties, games, and respectful, and fun. We welcome any and all. For generalists with a strong bent towards literary SF/F. Phoenix, Arizona locations, http://www.parex.org/ occasional outings with more to come now that Doctor more information, contact Todd Miles at acrossplus@ Guests welcome - meets at 8pm on the last Friday meetings.shtml Club dues are on an annual basis: Who is returning from hiatus. Many members maintain acrossplus.org of each month in January thru September and the Regular members $20 Student members $15 Of course an active presence at conventions. You can contact us second Friday in October, November and December at visitors are always welcome because we know you will at 2243 W Wagon Wheel Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85021, ADRIAN EMPIRE - A medieval and renaissance Denny’s, 2360 W Northern Ave in Phoenix, AZ. For eventually become a member anyway Web page: http:// Voice Mail at (602) 864-0901, E-mail TARDIS-Info@ recreationist club. Sword-fighting, arts, banquets, information: write PO Box 62613, Phoenix, AZ 85082- www.parex.org/ E-mail Contact: [email protected]. cox.net or visit us at http://members.cox.net/tardisaz/ masquerades, dances. meets 3rd Saturday 10am at El 2613 or email [email protected] Web www.casfs.org. tardis.html. Oso Park. Web: http://www.kingdomofumbria.com/ RAW GAMES - (Role-players & Wargamers, Inc.) events.html All are welcome. Free. C.R.O.F.T. - Celtic Reenactment of Fellowship Role-players & Wargamers, Inc. is the Valley’s oldest T.H.E.M. is ASU’s science fiction and fantasy and Trades is Phoenix based Reenactment group role-playing and wargaming club. Currently meeting club. Weekly meetings are held on the Arizona AERIAL MIRAGE JUGGLERS - Meet specializing in the western European renaissance. We at 8159 W. Weldon in Phoenix every Sunday from State University campus, with dates and places to Wednesday, 7:30-10 PM. Encanto Park, 14th Avenue, research lifestyles and trades concurrent with the Celtic 12noon-5pm (except during conventions and other be announced after the semester starts. For more Peoples from 400 BC until 1746 AD. We emphasize south of Encanto. Elliot Goldstein, 602-266-4391, special events). Open to new members - call (623) information, Email them@themonline. org Web www. Scots, Irish or Welsh crafts and do Celtic re-enactment. e-mail [email protected], 5535 N. Eleventh Street, 849-9515. themonline.org. Phoenix, AZ 85014; or Timmie Ann Schramm, 602- We open participation to anyone with an interest in - The Shield is a RPGA club located in the 585-7623, 2326 E. Electra Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85024. period crafting and entertainment. Demonstrations SHIELD UNITED FEDERATION OF PHOENIX - A greater Phoenix area. If you are interested in Living occur at the Highland Games, Scarborough Fair, and the Phoenix area Star Trek and general SciFi fan club. We Greyhawk catch one of our meetings the 1st Sunday ARIZONA BROWNCOATS - A social group Arizona Renaissance Festival. Web page http://www. are a social club that meets every two weeks at various crofters.org Gatherings are held at the Irish Cultural of every month at Imperial Outpost Games (www. and state non-profit devoted to continuing the spirit locations around the Phoenix area. The UFP has been of Joss Whedon’s inspired series Firefly through Center on the 2nd Saturday of every month. The center imperialoutpost.com) in Glendale. If you are interested in Living Arcanis or Living Spycraft catch us on the meeting for over 30 years of continuous activity. charity events, a presence at local conventions, and is located at 1106 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 3rd Sunday of every month also at Imperial Outpost Dues are $15/per year prorated when you join; no social events. We are all over Arizona with monthly 85004, phone number 602-258-0109, across from the Burton Barr Library. The Board meeting will be at Games. The Shield of Almor hosts RPGA events at the restrictions. Membership includes membership roster shindigs in Phoenix and Tucson. In September, both 12:00 Noon with the General meeting starting at 12:30 local Phoenix conventions. For more information visit and monthly newsletter. Come to any two meetings at cities will be hosting screenings of Serenity to benefit pm. us at games.groups.yahoo.com/group/AZ_RPG/ or no obligation. For information, write the UFP at PO Equality Now. For more details, visit our website at you can sign up for games at www.nyrond. org Or you Box 37224, Phoenix, AZ 85069, or call Jim Strait at http://azbrowncoats.org and follow our twitter @ DARK ONES - (Dark-wunz) n. 1) An organization can just stop by the 1st Sunday of the month. Meeting (602) 242-9203. Web page: http://www.U-F-P.org or azbrowncoats. formed for the expression and exploration of various starts at 10am. Hope to see you there. Email to [email protected]. cultural themes including, but not limited to, the ARIZONA LANBASHERS LEAGUE - A Dark Ages and the Renaissance through forms of SOCIETY FOR CREATIVE ANACHRONISM USS LEONIDAS - The Leonidas is a member of collaboration of computer gaming enthusiasts, the art including, but not limited to, painting, drawing, - The Kingdom of Atenveldt is part of the Society Region IV of STARFLEET International. The chapter Arizona LANbashers League throws quarterly writing, photography, spoken word, and acts of for Creative Anachronism (SCA), a not-for-profit is an opportunity for those that share a love of Star Trek educational organization that studies western European to have fun and help the community at the same time. LANparty events. Between parties, support is given characterization. 2) a member of this organization. 3) history by recreating the “best” pastimes and crafts of The Leonidas stresses uniforms or other costumes to to local groups who wish to advertise their own Information available at www.darkones.org gatherings. We have no set genre of games and play the Middle Ages. The Atenveldt branch of the SCA have the ability to participate actively in various events anything from strategy games to first-person shooters EMPIRE OF CHIVALRY AND STEEL, INC. - The encompasses all of Arizona and small parts of Utah as they present themselves but they are not required. and California. Within the fair kingdom can be found Membership with Starfleet International is required. to driving/flying simulations. No annual membership Empire of Chivalry and Steel specializes in the general six Baronies: Atenveldt, Mons Tonitrus, Twin Moons, www.sfi.org Upon joining STARFLEET a member is is required and admission to an event ranges from $5- recreation of the culture of the Middle Ages including $15. See our webpage for current events. Web: www. SunDragon, Tir Ysgithr and Ered Sul. For more a Cadet. Upon passing the Officer’s Training School all of the Art Forms, Events (Feasts, Tournaments, information on any of these or for general information Exam at the Online Academy, the member becomes lanparty.com/all/ Ceremonies and Wars) and Combat Arts covering the on contact the Kingdom Seneschal. Email: seneschal@ a Commissioned Officer aboard the Leonidas. The years of 800AD up to 1650AD and any location within AZ PARANORMAL INVESTIGATIONS - We are a atenveldt.com Web www.atenveldt.com. chapter does not have dues as of yet. The dues to be a Europe or its explored territories. For more information member of STARFLEET International are $15 a year. highly trained, non-profit paranormal investigation Web: http://www.ecs-galandor.org/. SOUTHWEST COSTUMER’S GUILD - The group, registered with the state of Arizona, providing No newsletter, but members do receive an activities Southwest Costumers Guild is a loose organization of E-mail update. No web site yet. Contact : Arthur service to Arizona and the Southwest since 1994. GATHERING OF PLAYERS - Find Your persons interested in all facets of historical, cultural, Fesler-Butts, Jr. [email protected]. Having served the public for 12 years, we are one of Adventure - Our club is running into our sixth year. science fiction, fantasy, and humor costume. Members the oldest, most respected paranormal investigation Join us for games and adventure set in the Dungeons are often seen on stage and behind the scenes at local WESTERN SCIENCE FICTION ASSOCIATION groups in Arizona. We are primarily science based and Dragons realm. We offer Living Forgotten Realms and regional Science Fiction Convention masquerades. - (WesternSFA) A nonprofit corporation that sponsors and don’t go on an investigation looking for and Pathfinder Society. We welcome both new and They meet on the last Sunday of each month at various AniZona, RandomCon, the ConRunners seminars and ghosts, we go looking for answers. There is never experienced players. Visit http://www.warhorn.net/ members’ homes in the greater Phoenix area. For sponsored the 2004 Westercon. Dedicated primarily to a charge for an investigation. Contact us at by gathering, to see what we have coming up. If you have details. Southwest Costumers Guild, PO Box 39504, educational activities relating to literature, music, and e-mail at info@arizonaparanormalinvestigations. any questions email us at agatheringofplayers@gmail. Phoenix, AZ 85609 or Randall Whitlock at costumers@ visual and performing arts, especially in the genres of com or visit our website at: http://www. com. casfs.org or www.southwestcostumersguild.org. Anime, science fiction, fantasy, costuming, gaming and arizonaparanormalinvestigations.com/ science. Applicants for membership in WesternSFA SPACE ACCESS SOCIETY - Space Access JEDI KNIGHTS - (Founded 1977) Meetings are must be sponsored by a current active WesternSFA Society’s sole purpose is to promote radically cheaper AZCorsairs - “Founded in 1971 as a branch of the the 3rd Sunday of each month. For more information member. Dues are $10 yearly plus a $5 non-refundable access to space, ASAP. We think it’s possible within Society for Creative Anachronisms, or SCA, our primary call Carol Alves, Publicity, (760)244-9593 or write application fee. General Meetings are held on the first ten years, with a little luck and a lot of hard work. Join focus is 16th - 18th century European culture and the Jedi Knights, c/o Carol Alves 8038 “I” Street, Hesperia Friday of February, May, August and November, check us and help us make it happen! SAS membership is pirate lifestyle of the time. The Corsairs will extend CA, 92345-7066. our website for meeting location Guests are welcome. $30 for one year, which gets you emailed Space Access pirate portrayals as far back as Phoenician, Roman Era For more info contact Craig Dyer at WesternSFA, LEPRECON, INC. - One of the two Phoenix Updates the instant they pass final edit, plus discounts or to future Space, Science Fiction genre, and more PO Box 67457, Phoenix AZ 85082 Email: info@ area corporations that put on yearly conventions. on our annual conference on the technology, politics, publicly recognizable Hollywood styled pirate. Corsair westernsfa.org Webpage: www.westernsfa.org. membership is largely volunteeroriented, gathered Best described as SF/F generalists with a main thrust and business of radically cheaper space transportation, together for fun and while helping others out. into SF/F art. Guests are welcome. The meetings are featuring leading players in the field. Email us at: Members of the Arizona Corsairs are, much like their quarterly on the second Saturday of February, May, [email protected] Web page: www. historical counterparts, masters of their own destiny. August & November unless otherwise notified. August space-access.org. Creation of characters, complete with backstory with is the annual meeting where board positions are deter- correlation to history, period costume, and emulation mined. For more information, write PO Box 26665, of pirate traditions and arts, rests on each performer, Tempe, AZ 85285; call Mike Willmoth, 480-945-6890, creating varied storylines and deep, interesting Email [email protected] Webpage: www. characters. leprecon.org. For more information, please contact Captaim Max MVD GHOSTCHASERS - The MVD - Ambassador, AZCorsairs [email protected] 602- Ghostchasers are a paranormal team established in 799-6184. 1995. This band of ghost hunters conducts regular investigations of haunted, historical locations AZ MIB - The Men in Black is the official global throughout Arizona. They also research and investigate organization of field operatives for Steve Jackson “house call” hauntings for the public. The MVD Games. The Arizona Cell attends local and regional Ghostchasers lead Spirit Photo Workshops/Tours conventions to demonstrate and promote products of to various haunted locations across Arizona. These Steve Jackson Games. We also schedule demos in local workshops give ghost hunters, paranormal team gaming stores as well as community service events. If members and folks wanting to learn the art of ghost you have a gaming store, convention, or community hunting a chance to work and learn techniques together. service that you would like to have official Steve The MVD Ghostchasers team are guest speakers at Jackson Games representation at, please contact the many venues and have appeared on TV news reports and the subject of several newspaper stories. For Volume 21 Issue 6 ConNotations 19 Page 20 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 6