Connotations Newszine

Volume 21, Issue 5 October/November 2011 ConNotations NewsZine FREE The Bi-Monthly Science Fiction, Fantasy & Convention Newszine of the Central Arizona Speculative Fiction Society SF TUBE TALK: Walking Dead Gets Animated on AMC Unveiling the Mystery of the by Lee Whiteside Horsemen of the Apocalypse by Don Wiest on ABC will be Once Upon a Time, in which Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison), a 28 year old bail bonds Contrary to popularly held beliefs, the account of the collector, is reunited with her ten year old son she gave 4 Horsemen, visualized and subsequently penned by up for adoption. Her son tells her he has learned that John the Beloved while exiled on the Isle of Patmos, she is the missing daughter of Snow White (Gennifer is not a prediction concerning key political figures, Godwin) and Prince Charming (Josh Dallas) from an natural disasters, super plagues, aliens from space, or alternate universe where FAIRY TALES ARE REAL catastrophic events raining down upon the earth from (gasp)! She was sent away to protect her from the Evil the heavens. John himself tells us that he had no idea Queen’s (Lana Parrilla) curse and the fairy tale world of the purpose or meaning behind these mysterious was frozen in time. The other escapees are living in yet ominously foreboding visions but he faithfully Storybrooke, but don’t have their memories of the recorded what he saw. fairy tale world and when Emma goes there with her It is important to note that this particular vision son, she starts to learn more about her past and the lies within the book of Revelation (Chapter 6: 1-8) dangers she may be facing. The show does have some which means it was specifically intended for people producers and writers with a good track record behind witnessing last day prophesies scheduled to occur prior it, including Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis from to the return of Christ. It is also necessary to point out PHOTO CREDIT: Gene Page/AMC Lost, plus Jane Espenson (Buffy, Angel, Torchwood: Continued on Page 4 The new season is underway and we’ve got a few Miracle Day) as well. So it be worth checking out since new genre shows hitting the broadcast networks as it appears to be taking an approach that might result well as a few new shows and shows with new episodes in a good ongoing story, not unlike Bill Willingham’s on cable and elsewhere. comic series Fables. ABC has debuted their new take on Charlie’s Over at NBC, their take on FAIRY TALES ARE Angels, and while the debut was OK in the ratings, REAL is Grimm, which debuts in late October on the general reaction has been lukewarm at best. None Friday nights, and focuses on Nick Burkhardt (David of the main characters seem to have struck a chord Guintoli), a homicide detective who learns from his with the viewers and unless the ratings hold steady or ailing Aunt Marie (Kate Burton), that he is the latest in a the writing improves, I don’t expect it to stick around long line of Grimms, hunters who keep the supernatural for long. Debuting later in October on Sundays nights monsters at bay and protect humanity. As he learns Continued on Page 3

SPECIAL ARTICLE ... Page 1, 4 & 5 EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS ... Page 9 MOVIE/VIDEO REVIEWS ... Page 16 SF TUBE TALK ... Page 1, 3 & 5 24 FRAMES ... Page 10 GAMER’S CORNER & CALENDAR ... Page 17 From the Managing Editor ... Page 6 SCIENCE EXPLORATION ... Page 11 IN OUR BOOKS ... Page 18-19-20 CONVENTION REVIEWS ... Page 6 CALENDAR OF EVENTS ... Page 12 & 13 GRAPHIC BOOKS & MANGA REVIEWS ... Page 21 &22 CON HEADLINE NEWS ... Page 7 FEATURE ARTICLES ... Page 14 CONVENTIONS LISTINGS/CLASSIFIED ADS ... Page 22

AUTHOR HEADLINE LOCAL NEWS ... Page 8 FEATURED FICTION ... Page 15 EDITORIALS ... Page 22 CLUB LISTINGS ... Page 23

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Page 2 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 SF TUBE TALK Continued from Page 1 The executive producers have a good before FOX will invest in another the arrival of the Hollow Earth refugees, track record, and include J. J. Abrams, season beyond the 13 episodes being the balance between Abnormals and more about his Aunt’s past, he “he will Bryan Burk (Lost), Jonathan Nolan produced for the first season. FOX also humans is severely upset. In order have to shoulder the responsibility of his (Momento), David Semel (Heroes) and has Fringe returning to Friday nights, to keep the peace, Magnus and team ancestors -- and contend with a larger- Greg Plageman (Cold Case) and if the following on from the game changing must throw out the rulebook. But than-life mythology of the Brothers pilot is any indication, this could be the season finale. Reports are that the new forging their own way means they’re Grimm that is now all too real.” Other hit new show of the season.. season will be a good starting point for not just dodging dangerous Abnormals cast includes Bitsie Tulloch as Juliette FOX has what is probably the new viewers who might be concerned anymore, now they’ve got world Silverton, Reggie Lee as Sgt. Wu, most expensive new genre show with about the very complex back story. governments and new villains nipping Russell Hornsby as Hank Griffin, Sasha Terra Nova, which will air on Monday Initial ratings were decent (comparable at their heels. As part of their 31 days Roiz as Captain Renard, and Silas Weir nights this fall. The basic premise is to the season finale), so it should stick of Halloween event, Syfy will debut the Mitchell as Eddy Munroe. Jim Kouf that the Earth of the future (2149) has around for the full season, but whether original movie Zombie Apocalypse on (“Angel”) and David Greenwalt (“Buffy been screwed up enough, that a group it will get any more will depend on how Saturday, Oct 29th, which stars Ving the Vampire Slayer,” “Angel”) are the of colonists are sent back in time to the ratings hold up. Rhames as part of a group of survivors creators/executive producers of the try to start things over and do it right, Over on The CW, with Smallville of a Zombie Apocalypse who fight their series, so there is some experience with effectively setting up an alternate gone, Nikita has moved to Friday nights way cross country to a rumored refuge making this type of show and hopefully timeline (which, of course, allows them and a new series, The Secret Circle, on the Catalina Island. For Halloween make it more than just a “Monster of the to keep interacting with people from based on a novel series by Vampire night, Oct 31, Ghost Hunters will once Week”. If they can do more than just the future). The series focuses on the Diaries creator L. J. Smith, pairs up with again be live, this time from the streets the standard cliches, this show might Shannon family, part of the group of Vampire Diaries on Thursday night. it of New York City. have a chance, but it’s Friday time slot settlers in the Terra Nova colony. Led stars Britt Robertson as Cassie Blake, a Syfy’s big miniseries this year will doesn’t give it much of a starting point, by Jim Shannon (Jason O’Mara) and high school girl who moves in with her be Neverland, airing over two nights on but with NBC is in such dire straits, OK his wife Elisabeth (Shelley Conn), they grandmother Jane in the small town of Sunday and Monday, Dec 4 & 5. Syfy ratings may be good enough for Grimm are joined by their 17 year old son Josh Chance Harbor, Washington, after her describes it as “an original prequel to to survive. Returning to NBC on Friday (Landon Liboiron), their fifteen year mother dies in a (possibly suspicious) author J.M. Barrie’s classic Peter Pan, nights in late October is Chuck, for its old daughter Maddy (Naomi Soctt), and fire. Cassie soon finds out she is a sweeps in time from the turbulent seas fifth and final season. With Chuck and witch, and has of the pirates of the Caribbean and Sarah now married and having started special powers the back alleys of Dickensian London up their own spy company, they find and that she to a world of pure imagination.” It out that things aren’t less complicated has a destiny to stars Rhys Ifans as James Hook, Keira than they were before. Carrie-Anne fight the rising Knightley as the voice of Tinker Bell, Moss (The Matrix) turns up as Gertrude dark powers Anna Friel as Captain Elizabeth Bonnie, Verbanski, who runs a competing spy (or something Bob Hoskins as Smee, Raoul Trujillo agency and also generates some sparks along those and Charlie Rowe as Peter Pan. with Casey. Morgan has ended up with lines). She Walking Dead returns to AMC on the Intersect, and his life gets more teams up with Sunday, October 16, with a 90 minute complicated, while Big Mike hooks a group of episode, followed by six more episodes up with Morgan’s mom, and Jeff and c l a s s m a t e s , in the fall, with the show returning Lester have relationship issues. and form The for the rest of the season in February. CBS has two new shows with Secret Circle The second season will see Rick and some genre elements, A Gifted Man, on to contend with the survivors venture out of the cities Fridays, is about Michael Holt (Patrick the opposing and find a refuge on Hershel’s Farm. Wilson), a work-obessed surgeon to forces. The According to Walking Dead creator/ the wealthy, begins to be visited by the first couple of producer Robert Kirkman “that’ll be ghost of his deceased ex-wife, Anna PHOTO CREDIT: Greg Nicotera/AMC episodes have a place that they stay in for a while, (Jennifer Ehle), who was an idealistic their five year old daughter Zoe (Alana paired up well with Vampire Diaries, and so we’ll be introduced to Hershel, free clinic doctor, who convinces him Mansour), who has a secret that may so it may stick around for a while. who is a big character from the comic that he needs to take over for her. As endanger the Shannon’s future with Vampire Diaries executive producer book series, and Maggie, who in the described by CBS, Michael is “touched the colony. Also starring are Stephen Julie Plec has said about the new season comic book series has a relationship by those in need and accepting of Lang as Commander Nathaniel Taylor, “we are fortunate in that this season, as with Glenn. So we’ll possibly see a Anna’s compassionate “presence,” Allison Miller as Skye (who hooks up a result of where we ended last season, little bit of romance between Glenn Michael’s attitude toward serving the with Josh), and Christine Adams as there’s a lot of new roads to travel down, and Maggie as we move forward into rich and poor is turned upside down, Mira, the leader of a splinter colony of both for our characters who we think the second season.” Joining the show and he begins to see that there’s room renegades. It has Steven Spielberg as we know, and also in the supernatural will be Scott Wilson as Hershel Greene, in his life for everyone.” CBS seems to Executive Producer (Jurassic Park, etc.) world that we had only previously Lauren Cohan as his daughter, Maggie, be trying to cater to fans of The Ghost with Rene Echevarria and Brannon tapped into, which is werewolves and and Pruitt Taylor Vince as Otis. In Whisperer with this one. On Thursdays Braga as EPs actually running the show vampires.” Supernatural has picked addition to the cable series, AMC is CBS has Person of Interest, which stars and a host of others getting their fingers up from the sixth season finale, dealing also producing a web series focusing Michael Emerson as Finch, a wealthy into the mix. As of press time, I’ve not with Castiel’s revelation that he is God on Bicycle Girl, telling her origin story inventor who has created a program seen the pilot, and reports of behind and the ramifications of that. Sam and and how she became the Zombie that that uses pattern recognition to identify the scenes production issues haven’t Dean will also continue hunting down turned up in the series. Also airing potential victims of violent crimes. given me much hope that the series will other supernatural threats including on AMC will be The Talking Dead a He recruits Reese (Jim Caviezel), an actually be any good. But, it will have a doppleganger, ghosts, a witch, and weekly half hour after show hosted by ex-CIA operative who is believed to DINOSAURS!, and that may be enough more. Chris Hardwick (The Nerdist) and will be dead, to join him in a crusade to to keep it going, although as expensive Sanctuary is returning to Syfy on feature interviews with cast and crew take justice into their own hands and as it reportedly has been to produce, the Friday nights, following Wrestling, for as well as fans of the show. It will air prevent these crimes from happening. ratings will likely need to be outstanding its fourth season of 13 episodes. With SF TUBE TALK Continued on Page 5 Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 3 Continued from Page 1 not gained through provincial commerce carries an oversized sword is also an form of government. or the maintenance of its own standing indicator of its militant source of power. The fourth and last symbol is a pale that the practicalities of presenting a army but through the control of secular Since its revolutionary inception in the horse bearing a hate-filled rider wielding prophetic vision of events, set to occur rulers who could be threatened with 1900’s, the advance of Communism a sword. This religious government is almost 2,000 years after the death of its excommunication, economic sanctions, has historically been recognized by its the last institution to rise to power and author, was a considerable challenge for or invasion by other allied countries, ability to destabilize all other forms is identified as the institution of Islam. It the heavenly messenger as well! This if they didn’t obey. The political of government and thus replace peace is important to note that the word pale is could only be accomplished through the intrigues initiated by the Holy Roman and tranquility with conflict. The actually a mistranslation which appears use of symbolic images which might Empire, against secular kingdoms, was reason for this is that Communism in most Bibles today. It was originally be gibberish to someone in John’s time extremely effective, empowering them successfully incites the masses against translated from the Greek word chloros, but completely understandable and to instigate numerous battles where the ruling aristocracy via the doctrine of which literally means green. This was an meaningful to modern day readers. victory for the church was assured. The revolution. This, in turn, usually results unfortunate error, for if we understand Christ employed this strategy very fact that the church used other countries in a civil bloodbath. Even in its own that the symbolic horse was green then effectively in His teachings when He to fight their wars is represented by the country, the Russian Revolution was we can immediately identify Islam as conveyed complex ideas through the empty bow. The extensive use of white responsible for the deaths of countless this religious government since that is use of timeless symbolic parables. within the papal diocese leaves no millions. The infamous Stalin purge the dominant color used in the majority This particular apocalyptic vision doubt as to the symbolism of the white alone murdered 35 to 50 million of its of its national symbols and flags. We also was actually intended to herald the citizens, depending on which historians know this rider is filled with rage and emergence of major geo-political one chooses to read. No one really hate because the text literally states that institutions. Human governments have knows how many millions perished “Death was the name of its rider and hell always been necessary as a means of during the Chinese Civil War as a result followed after him.” More importantly, avoiding anarchy and civil breakdown of military clashes between Communist we learn that this religious government which undoubtedly occurs in their and Nationalist parties. At present the would be given authority over twenty- absence. Unfortunately most human doctrine of Communism appears to be five percent of the world’s population governmental systems are created waning in popularity since many nations to kill with the sword, famine, disease and deployed by its ruling class, who now recognize that socialistic ideals and/or by wild beasts. inevitably manage to live above the encourage laziness because the working Today Islamic doctrine along with law while effectively subjugating, class invariably lacks the incentive its form of religious government is the persecuting, or decimating its to work harder when the reward is an fastest growing institution in the world populations. If this statement seems equally distributed portion. with over 1.5 billion souls in attendance harsh then consider the staggering The third symbol to appear was (which incidentally is approaching one death tolls represented by some of a black horse with a rider holding a quarter of the earth’s population). There these apocalyptic institutions. It is pair of balance scales and chanting “a is no doubt that once Islam’s fanatical conceivable that the true villains of loaf of wheat bread or three loaves of rulers gain control over a population humanity may not be plagues, wars, barley for a day’s pay. And don’t waste they routinely instigate its slaughter by or natural disasters, but instead human horse, and the large oversized shape of the oil or wine.” The balance scales, starvation or by the sword if the religion governments. the distinctive Papal Tiara explains the along with the chant of a proportional of Islam is refused by its victims. If the The description of each horse along enormous crown worn by the symbolic exchange rate, instantly gives our horse reader doubts this then observe the with its rider is significant therefore rider. and rider away as representing the current on-going destabilization efforts they are presented below in the order of This religious monopoly began to lose institution of Capitalism. Though the conducted in many African countries their appearance. Each symbolic horse its stranglehold in 1517 when Martin color black has historically represented where an Islam-based government has and rider can be categorized within two Luther challenged the Catholic Church death, in this example that is not the infiltrated! It is by far the most ruthless types of governing institutions. The over the issue of indulgences, plus other case. Economically speaking, the most and oppressive form of government ever first and last horses represent religious lesser offenses. The next major blow lucrative shopping day of the year conceived by man. It is so devastating governments. By this we mean their occurred approximately thirteen years in the United States is the day after that it is prophesied to herald the advent primary method of control is through later when Henry VIII declared that his Thanksgiving, the day we universally of global catastrophes and the subsequent religious-based political intrigues to right as a God ordained English king refer to as “Black Friday”. It is named appearance of the antichrist along with subjugate its masses. For example, “do trumped the coronation of a foreign as such because it represents the the final wars of annihilation. While it as we say or we will punish you with vicar located in Italy. Henry then expectation of every merchandiser to has not yet achieved its stated goal of excommunication, starvation, military proceeded to nationalize monasteries balance their ledgers in the black instead taking over the world and dispatching invasion, selective execution”...and throughout England, which incidentally of the red. The “Don’t Tread on Me” the last infidel, it continues to use the list goes on. The second and third created an enormous windfall profit at black snake on a yellow background or relentless subversion and terrorism in horses represent governments which are the expense of the Vatican! The power orange snake on a black background, an all-out effort to achieve its mandated based on economic principles. A good of the Holy Roman Empire was finally were the dominant battle flags used mission. analogy for these governments would broken by Napoleon Bonaparte in during the American Revolution. be “eat what you kill,” or the polar the early 1800’s when he conquered The Declaration of Independence opposite which is, “we will confiscate the European provinces, removed was a unique document that, for the what you kill and redistribute it as we incumbent cardinals, and instituted first time in history, placed the power (the government) decide”. secular dictatorships. of the individual first, the power of The first vision to appear was a white The second vision to appear was the state second, and the power of the horse bearing a rider with an enormous a red horse bearing a rider holding a nation last. This revolutionary concept crown and holding an empty bow. We large broadsword and the authority transformed an insignificant collection are also told that this horse rode out to to remove peace from the earth. This of 13 colonies into the richest and most win many battles and gain the victory. major government is based on economic powerful governmental institution on This was the first appearance of a major principles and is embodied in the earth. On the other hand government religious-based government and it was Utopian doctrines of Communism. Few intrusion through prohibitive taxation, called Catholicism. In its hay-day the will argue the fact that the national color over-regulation, and excessive Catholic Church represented a very representing Russia is, without a doubt entitlement programs, is an anathema to powerful ruling force throughout the red, thus validating the red color of the the principles of Capitalism. If allowed known world. Its political strength was apocalyptic horse. The fact that the rider to flourish, it will quickly destroy this Page 4 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 Continued from Page 4 If we are a Believer we must accept SF TUBE TALK Continued from Page 3 Jessica Lange Constance, the Harmon’s that imperfect man, if left to his own neighbor; Evan Peters as Tate Langdon, devices, is decidedly incapable of each Sunday night following the encore one of Ben’s patients; and Denis O’Hare sustaining a perfect government. airing of that nights new Walking Dead as Larry Harvey. Also appearing is We must also accept that even when episode. Alexandra Breckenridge as Moira humans manage to envision a perfect New to cable is BBC America’s O’Hara (Young) and Frances Conroy as government, the seeds for its eventual Bedlam, about a group of residents in Moira O’Hara (Old), their housekeeper corruption and downfall will invariably a housing project who discover that the who keeps changing back and forth rest with evil men who will always building’s past as an insane asylum now between an old lady and a young woman. empower themselves at the expense means that there’s lots of unhappy spirits There’s not been much revealed about of others. The unshakeable hope of a to contend with in their residence. the series itself, although critic reaction Believer is the Biblical promise that The series stars Charlotte Salt, Theo from a press screening indicates that human governments will end when James and Ashley Madekwe. It is only there is lots of gore and blood and might King Jesus returns and establishes the six episodes and reports are that it has be a “fetishist’s and horror fan’s dream.” Millennial Government . . . a perfect not been renewed for a second series by In any case, it’s likely to stir up a lot of government ruled by a perfect Creator its UK home, ITV. interest, especially for horror fans. and intended for recreated humans who FX debuts American Horror Story In the cartoon realm, the Cartoon are made perfect through the elimination on Wednesday, October 5, and it might of evil. Network has finally started showing be the next big thing on cable. It new episodes of both Young Justice CoN What all this means is that we are revolves around The Harmons, a family and Batman: The Brave and the Bold as left with choices. If we are a Humanist, Don is an enthusiastic student of history of three who move from Boston to well as the fourth season of Star Wars we must believe that man carries and archeology, especially as it relates Los Angeles as a means to reconcile Clone Wars. Sometime in November, within himself the immutable hope for to the Bible. As well as writing a book, past anguish. Unfortunately, the house they will also start airing Green Lan- a future which embodies the gradual he has directed and produced a number they move into has been the scene of tern: The Animated series. It focuses on improvement of human-kind through of multi-media presentations and has multiple murders and appears to be Hal Jordan’s Green Lantern as he is sent knowledge, spirituality, technology, been the featured guest speaker at haunted, really haunted. It was co- off to deep space to fight the evil Red and social enlightenment. We must numerous churches, symposiums, and created by former Nip/Tuck executive Lanterns. Joining him is Green Lantern embrace the expectation that as a public functions. producers and current Glee co-creators/ Kilowog and other heroes as they work species we can eventually overcome executive producers Ryan Murphy to keep the Red Lanterns at bay. Bruce this specter of corruption which seems and Brad Falchuk. The cast includes Timm is Executive Producer, so fans to creep in and remind us of our human Dylan McDermott as Ben Harmon, a are expecting similar quality as was failings...yet despite these failings, we psychiatrist; Connie Britton as Ben’s seen with the previous Batman, Super- remain determined to strive towards a wife Vivien Harmon; Taissa Farmiga as man and Justice League Unlimited that more peaceful, considerate, and loving Violet, the Harmon’s teenage daughter; Timm was in charge of. CoN world.

Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 5 CONVENTION REVIEWS:

KILLER CON: Not for time in late September of next year the Weak Hearted and give yourself a much-deserved Vegas vacation at KillerCon 4. Just FROM THE NEW MANAGING EDITOR: By Darryl Dawson Brown like a vivid nightmare, it will leave a lasting impression! I’d have to admit that I had a lot of flourished things to say over this last KillerCon is the ultimate gathering week to everyone from potential advertisers to publicists, and our readers of purveyors and consumers of the ROC-CON: Rocked about the changing of the guard for ConNotations. But, now that I sit here to twisted and terrifying, and the perfect write something for all the regular readers of the newspaper, I am void of all Rochester last weekend way to prepare for Halloween season. those words that sounded so good last week. By Michael D’Ambrosio This past weekend marked its third Being the managing editor of ConNotations has been a wish of mine incarnation, and by all indications, Roc-Con debuted in Rochester this for many years; 21 to be exact. I have been a convention goer for that many this event will only become bigger weekend (9/24) at the historic Armory years and, during all of them an avid reader of this rag. I had never realized, and more popular as word gets around. on Main Street. With an array of until this opportunity literally fell in my lap, that ConNotations is 21 years Held at the Stratosphere Hotel in Las vendors, costuming and programs, old, so I have been an admirer for that long. But even when I found out the Vegas, KillerCon is the creation of Roc-Con was a success. Things went position was empty, for whatever the reason was, I still did not jump at it. I hardcore horror author Wrath James so well that next year, the Comicon- told others closest to me of my long-standing wish, but had swore that if it White (The Ressurectionist, His style convention will go to two was not asked of me, I would not offer to take the position. Pain), who, after asking himself days on September 22 and 23rd of WHY? You may ask. a rhetorical question--“Why can’t 2012. With plenty of room to grow, Basically, this position takes a lot out of anybody. I know how our there be a horror convention in Las anything is possible. Alicia Lurye, previous managing editor for more than a decade could have grown very Vegas?”--decided to attempt the the convention’s organizer, and her weary of the job. But, I also held back because I have responsibilities to the impossible and give it an answer. army of volunteers have plenty to clients served by my own company. So, whenever I make a decision that He, with the help of fellow authors, be proud of. Follow their website at will take my time away from them, I must know that I am meant to go that Bailey Hunter and Tucson’s, R.J. http://rochesterscifianimecon.com/ direction. Cavender, established a fun-filled for upcoming details for next year’s Did I make the right decision? Only time will tell, really. Because chautaugua in Sin City, packed with convention programs and guests in honestly, I have to say that the political issues that have followed this position top-tier authors and up-and-comers historic downtown Rochester. are much greater than I had considered. It really worries me as a long time like myself, in an environment convention goer that we have such divided factions in our conventions here where we can all learn from, and SPOOKY EMPIRE’S in Arizona. party with, each other. Among this Going headlong into both the CASFS organization and also as the ULTIMATE HORROR year’s activities: a blood-splatter LepreCon 38 programming director, I thought that it would be a terrific demonstration, panels on pitching WEEKEND: Will be opportunity to bring to bear my years of publishing and graphics design a book and writing extreme horror, October 7-9, 2011 at Wyndham experience for both organizations. However, I find opposition instead. It is an erotic horror fiction contest, a Orlando Resort only my desire to help make the ConNotations NewsZine become a solvent “gross-out” contest (bring your publication, while also bringing together advertisers with our customers for own vomit bag!), and readings from By Michael D’ Ambrosio the NewsZine and the program books for both CopperCon and LepreCon. Jonathan Maberry, William Nolan, I will be out at the Spookie Empire There are a handful of individuals who move pretty easily, back and Jack Ketchum, Ben Etheridge and in Orlando and it is really big. They forth in positions for all the cons here in Arizona, so why not open lines of many others. I spent most of my also run the Mayhem Madness communication and offer ways where all convention organizations can work time in the Dealer’s Room, which convention in May over the holiday together to the benefit of our organizations and healthy growth into the future. was reasonably priced and well- weekend. Their website is http:// Now, during these hard economic times, is not the time to stay divided, but attended, especially during the Mass www.spookyempire.com/. They to consolidate for the benefit of the organizations and even more important, Autograph Session on Saturday! are multi-genre but primarily target for our present and future members of the speculative-fiction convention Do yourself a favor: reserve some horror. goers. I hope to introduce my grandchildren to these cons. These last 21 years, I have been a part of the Arizona speculative-fiction convention scene, mainly as a spectator. I can’t imagine how my life would have been different without the influences of these cons, their organizations, and the NewsZine for over three decades. I would like to see them go for another three decades or more. I went to college to be a journalist, until I found out how biased the newspapers were in Arizona. I may be an old-fashioned idealist, but I believe a newspaper should be produced to inform and to be an open-minded, unbiased medium. So, I am telling you now, to do this job, I plan to be open- minded to all cons in Arizona or outside our borders. I really work for all those who go to the conventions now and into the future.

---- And that’s all I have to say about that. Patti Hultstrand -- Managing Editor, ConNotations NewsZine

Page 6 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 fantasy in prose, television and comics, and is the LoneStarCon (the 1985 North American Science CON HEADLINE NEWS only person to have been a Hugo Award nominee for Fiction Convention) and Adventures In Crime & Space all three media. He’s written Action Comics for DC Books. He is a former para-librarian at the University Comics and Doctor Who for the BBC. His novels of Texas Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center LoneStarCon 3 wins 2013 Worldcon are Something More and British Summertime. His where he developed its speculative fiction collection. bid for San Antonio forthcoming novel, an urban fantasy, will be published Norman Spinrad is the author of more than by Tor in 2012. 20 novels, including Bug Jack Barron, The Iron FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 20, 2011 Ellen Datlow has edited science fiction, fantasy Dream, Child of Fortune, Pictures at 11, Greenhouse and horror short fiction for three decades. She served as Summer and The Druid King. He has also published RENO, Nev. – The World Science Fiction Convention fiction editor of Omni magazine and SCI Fiction, and approximately 60 short stories collected in a dozen will return to Texas for the first time since 1997 after has edited many anthologies for adults, young adults volumes. voting results announced Aug. 20 at Renovation, and children. She has won multiple Locus, Hugo, Darrell K. Sweet is an artist most famous for the 2011 Worldcon, awarded the right to host the Stoker, International Horror Guild, Shirley Jackson providing the cover art for the fantasy epic saga The international conference to the Texas in 2013 bid. and World Fantasy Awards. She was the recipient of Wheel of Time. He is also the illustrator for the well- LoneStarCon 3–the 71st World Science Fiction the 2007 Karl Edward Wagner Award for “outstanding known Xanth series by Piers Anthony, the Saga of Convention–will be held Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2013, at contribution to the genre.” Recluce series by L.E. Modesitt, Jr., and the Runelords the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Leslie Fish is one of the best-known authors of series by David Farland. CoN Antonio, Texas. The Mariott Rivercenter and Mariott filk songs including “Banned from Argo,” a comic Riverwalk will serve as the host hotels. song parodying Star Trek which has spawned more The guests of honor list for LoneStarCon 3 includes than 80 variants since first performed. Phoenix in 2014 NASFiC Bid - Ellen Datlow, James Gunn, Norman Spinrad, Darrel James Gunn is a science fiction author, editor, K. Sweet and Willie Siros, with Paul Cornell serving scholar and anthologist. His most significant writings A bid for the 2014 North American as toastmaster and featuring special guests Leslie Fish include fiction from the 1960s and 70s and his Science Fiction Convention and Joe R. Lansdale. scholarly Road to Science Fiction collections. Gunn Founded in 1939, the World Science Fiction is a founding director of the Center for the Study As was taken from the website at: Convention is one of the largest international of Science Fiction. He won a Hugo Award for non- http://www.leprecon.org/phoenixin2014/ gatherings of authors, artists, editors, publishers and fiction in 1983 and was honored in 2007 as a Damon fans of science fiction and fantasy entertainment. The Knight Memorial Grand Master by Science Fiction In years in which the Worldcon is held outside of annual Hugo Awards, the leading award for excellence and Fantasy Writers of America. North America,a NASFiC (North American Science in the field of science fiction and fantasy, are voted Joe R. Lansdale is the author of more than 30 Fiction Convention) can be held. Since London in on by Worldcon membership and presented during the books and is known to his fans as Champion Joe, Mojo 2014 is the current uncontested bid for Worldcon in convention. Storyteller. His is known for his horror stories, the Hap 2014,this leaves an opportunity to have a NASFiC that LoneStarCon 3 is sponsored by ALAMO, Inc., and Leonard mystery/thriller series and the theatrical year. Leprecon,Inc. has announced at Renovation,the (Alamo Literary Arts Maintenance Organization), a film Bubba Ho-Tep. Lansdale’s many awards include 2011 Worldcon in Reno,our intentions to bid for 501(c)3 organization. Membership for LoneStarCon 16 Bram Stoker Aawards, the Grand Master Award NASFiC in 2014,voting for which,provided London 3 may be purchased at www.LoneStarCon3.org. In from the World Horror Convention, a British Fantasy wins the 2014 Worldcon,will be held at Lone Star Con addition to individual memberships , LoneStarCon 3 Award and the American Mystery Award. 3 in Austin,TX in 2013. We are planning to hold the will also offer a family rate. For more information about Willie Siros was instrumental in starting the convention early in August,which will not overlap LoneStarCon 3, memberships or hotel information, long-running Austin science fiction convention, with the planned dates of the London WorldCon or visit www.LoneStarCon3.org. Armadillocon, serving as chair of the first three EuroCon. About the Guests of Honor for LoneStarCon 3: editions. Siros also contributed to the founding of the Our planned location is the Tempe Mission Palms Paul Cornell is a writer of science fiction and Fandom Association of Central Texas, the original in downtown Tempe,Arizona. It has been the site for previous events sponsored by Leprecon,Inc.,including the 2009 North American Discworld Convention, FiestaCon (Westercon 62),the 2006 Nebula Awards Weekend,and World Fantasy 2004. Phoenix in 2014 NASFiC Bid Pre-Support Levels can be found on the following web page: http://www.leprecon.org/phoenixin2014/ membership-information/ CoN

BID FOR LONDON IN 2014 FOR WORLDCON As taken from the website: http://www.londonin2014.org/ London in 2014 - for the bid to bring the 72nd World Science Fiction Convention, or Worldcon, to London in August 2014. The site for 2014 will be selected by vote of members of the Chicon 7, 2012 Worldcon. Between now and 2012, the bid committee will be publicizing and promoting the bid to science fiction fans all around the world. Assuming the bid is successful, the convention will be held from Thursday 14 to Monday 18 August 2014 in the new International Convention Centre, which is part of the ExCeL exhibition centre complex in London’s Docklands. Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 7 So two of your characters find get rescued by AUTHOR LOCAL HEADLINE NEWS: LENNIE ROSS men? Author of “Blow Me” novel, visits Phoenix I wouldn’t say that. I’d say they rescue themselves through learning to have healthy relationships with Interviewed on KWOD Radio Blog Talk Show What inspired you to write your novel? caring, supportive men who do not come in the on Monday, September 26, 2011 by Patti Hultstrand I read a lot of women’s contemporary fiction or cookie-cutter package. One is older and rather heavy; “chicklit” and it all seems to be based out of New the other while young and handsome is short. I read Lennie Ross writes a York, and I wanted to represent Los Angeles. I think in Psychology Today that women like strong male blog on dating in Los the life of women, particularly single women, in Los characters in romance novels. They fantasize about Angeles called Lennie Angeles is very unique and intriguing. doctors, hedge fund managers and princes—not Ross Writes and accountants and bartenders. Accounting is not sexy. works as a researcher, What is the main message of your book? story editor, and story It’s a novel, so it’s primarily an escape read. The kind If you could give women one piece of advice, either consultant for other of thing you take on vacation, or read while the kids through your blog or through your book, or through screenwriters. Under a are taking a nap. But, the general theme is about single this interview, what would it be? pseudonym, she wrote women and their struggles to find a decent man, about I see a lot of women struggling with self-esteem several screenplays for how sometimes they look up too late before they realize issues and it breaks my heart. I used to have terrible Playboy’s now defunct it’s time to get married and have children. I don’t thin self-esteem issues. It’s not possible to have a healthy film division, Indigo women have found a perfect balance between working relationship when you don’t feel confident inside. Entertainment. She has and being a woman. I think we all struggle with this. So, my message is to never sell yourself short in a also written several relationship. Aretha Franklin said it best: RESPECT. romantic comedy and You talk about The Wonder Woman Complex, Allowing a man to open a car door for you does not suspense thriller feature film scripts. Her screenwriting which is a phrase you coined, correct? make you inferior; it is not sexist. It does, however, credits include: writing and hosting a documentary on Yes, I often use the term in my blog. What I mean send a message that you deserve to be treated well, like asthma; writing, producing, and starring in her own by this is that in addition to providing women with a goddess or a princess, and that you want your man sitcom pilot, and writing and starring in her own play, more freedom and choices, women’s lib put more to be a prince. There is nothing wrong with wanting I Think I’m Falling In Love With You. Lennie wrote pressure on women as women are still expected to a good man who loves, respects and cares for you as two episodes of the Japan-Canada co-production be all the things they were before they were working well as wanting a career. animation series, Cyber- Six, and has had several TV women. Now we have to earn a six-figure salary, be a movies optioned. sex kitten, a mother, a wife, a homemaker, a personal About Lennie Ross: assistant, event coordinator for the family, etc. Society • I write a blog on dating in Los Angeles called www. While pursuing a screenwriting career, Lennie has puts that pressure on us, men put that pressure on us, lennierosswrites.com worked as a producer, talent agent and assistant casting and we put that pressure on ourselves. • I used to write screenplays for Indigo Entertainment. director for roughly ten years. Prior to her adventures Prior to that I did some TV movie development, prior in the screen trade, Lennie wrote advertising copy for Are you saying we can’t have our cake and eat it? to that I wrote magazine articles print and television, and fashion and travel articles I’m saying it’s very difficult to do that. I think it puts • I used to produce TV commercials for a living and for regional, national, and international publications great stress on us, and I think we are juggling too many also worked as a talent agent and in casting. including Beautiful B.C., Canadian Inflight, balls, and in doing so, every once in a while, one is • I live the “glamorous” fashionista Carrie Bradshaw Adventure West, Pacific Northwest, Western Living going to drop. Let’s hope it’s not the baby! One of the single life in LA and its not as pretty (or glamorous) as and Vancouver Magazine. most common statements I hear from single men or it looks. divorced men is, “My ex was bi-polar.” When I hear About Blow Me: this, I think to myself, she wasn’t bi-polar, she was just Lennie Ross came to town on Monday and Tuesday, Blow Me is the story of three single women—Skylar, having a nervous breakdown from all the stress on her. September 26 and 27th, to interview with us and to Dawn, and Chloe—all hovering precariously close I think we need to give ourselves a break every once in appear at her book signing event at Park Avenue Blow to forty, and stuck in a lifestyle that they have long a while and say, “no, I’m not going to do it all. I don’t Dry & Beauty Bar from 6-8pm. outgrown. Aware that the women’s magazines of their have to do it all.” She signed copies of her new Sex and the City style youth sold them a false bill of goods about having novel, “Blow Me” and had her fabulous “Blow Me” it all—the amazing career, the baby, the house, the So, the girls in your book, are suffering from the tank tops for sale! husband—each woman is desperate in her own way to wonder woman complex? The Cake Contessa provided some yummy treats for achieve some sense of stability. Skylar, a hairdresser/ To a degree. They are also suffering from fear and this event. executive assistant who lost her job and burned down anxiety. Basically, they didn’t plan their lives well, her apartment after a fondue party, is living out of her and they wake up one day and realize they don’t have car; Chloe, a struggling actress/real estate agent with the great career, the great husband, the great home, a heavy French Canadian accent who has never sold a and the 2.5 kids. They have none of that. I guess it’s a house and doesn’t have her SAG card, is trying to find precautionary tale. But it does have a happy ending. a way to stay in the United States; and Dawn, an MBA- educated dating service matchmaker who can’t find And by happy ending, you mean happily ever a decent guy, is hedging her bets against the ticking after? clock by freezing embryos. Not having achieved any of Uh, yes. My bad. I mean happily ever after! The girls their goals, their lives are in complete chaos and their in my book are looking for their happily ever after, and only hope now is to be rescued through marriage or two out of three get it. Those aren’t bad odds. Another by a Hairy Godfather. Situated in the shallow world of message I want to convey to women is that even with Los Angeles, this provocative novel in the style of Sex women working and having careers, it’s okay to still and the City provides a humorous, edgy look at aging, want to find your Prince Charming and to want a CoN dating, and being single in the new millennium. happily ever after.

Page 8 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 EVENTS SPOTLIGHT

TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY 2011

Pirates fighting in true sword buckling fashion and in full pirate garb at the Corsairs recent Talk Like a Pirate Day 2011 @ Westgate City Center! Saturday, September 17, 2011 in Glendale, AZ

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR THE AZ CORSAIRS HALLOWEEN at The Phoenix Zoo Time: October 28, 2011 at 6:30pm to October 29, 2011 at 11pm Location: The Phoenix Zoo Street: 455 N Galvin Pkwy City/Town: Phoenix, AZ 85008 Everyone was involved, even some mermaids http://azcorsair.ning.com/events/howl-o-ween-the-phx-zoo who hung out for this event.

Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 9 Patterson, Kristen Stewart, Taylor New Evil Dead movie without Lautner, Michael Sheen character Ash?

Friday, November 23, 2011 - Silk movie redo?

Arthur Christmas (in 3D) Sigourney Weaver’s choice: Avatar (Animation) Sony/Columbia, PG, 2 or Ghostbuster 3- to be decided in Director: Sarah Smith, Producer: 2012. Peter Lord 24 Frames: by Jeffrey Lu Ghostbuster 3 movie may not have Hugo (Family Adventure) Bill Murray. Paramount, Not Yet Rated, Director: COMMENTS: Paranormal Activity 3 (Horror) Martin Scorsese, Actor: Sacha Parting Shots: Paramount, Not Yet Rated, Producer- Baron Cohen, Richard Griffiths, Ben Trick: Scary stuff, these coming Oren Peli months. Mostly repeats, revisions, Kingsley, Jude Law, Christopher Have a safe Halloween, folks. Enjoy Lee the turkey (and not the fish with updates, and endless sequels coming The Three Musketeers (2011) (Period teeth) on Thanksgiving. to a theatre near you. The horror of Action), Summit Entertainment, PG- CoN The Muppets (Family Comedy) it all... 13, Actors: Milla Jovovich, Orlando Buena Vista, PG, Director: James Bloom Treat: No 3D on every movie. Also, Bobin, Writers/Producers: Jason Segel, Nick Stoller a strange movie for a holiday... Friday, October 28, 2011 - Piranha 3DD (Horror Comedy) In the Production News: In Time (Sci-fi thriller) Fox, PG- Weinstein/Dimension, Not Yet 13, Director/Writer: Andrew Niccol, Rated, Director: John Gulager, Man of Steel- production is now Actor: Justin Timberlake moved to Vancouver. Actor: Christopher Lloyd Anonymous (Period Drama) Sony/ Rumors: Underworld Awakening- will be in Columbia, PG-13, Director: Roland IMAX 3-D, next year. Emmerich, Actor: Rhys Ifans, The Man from U.N.C.L.E. remake? Vanessa Redgrave Tarantino’s next movie will be Blair Witch modern take? “Django Unchained.” Date release: Johnny English Reborn (Action Christmas, 2012. Kevin Costner Comedy) Universal, PG, Actor: exits out of Tarantino’s next movie, Rowan Atkinson “Django Unchained.” Friday, November 4, 2011 - J.J. Abrams will direct the Star Trek (2009) sequel. Date release: 2013? Puss in Boots (Animation) Paramount (Dreamworks), PG, Director: Chris Stephen Rea to be in Universal’s Miller, Voices: Antonio Banderas, updated version of Wolfman. Bill Bob Thornton

October/November Schedule: A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas (Comedy) Warner Bros. Friday, October 7, 2011 - (New Line), R, Actor: Kal Penn, John Cho The Ides of March (Thriller) Sony/ Columbia, Rate R, Producer/actor/ Friday, November 11, 2011 - writer/director- George Clooney. Immortals (Fantasy Drama) Real Steel (Action Drama) Buena Relativity, Not Yet Rated, Director: Vista, PG-13, Director- Shawn Levy, Tarsem, Actor: Henry Cavil, Mickey Actor- Hugh Jackman Rourke

Friday, October 14, 2011 - Friday, November 18, 2011 -

Footloose (2011) (Musical) Happy Feet Two (Animation) Paramount, Not Yet Rated, Director/ Warner Bros., Not Yet Rated, Writer- Craig Brewer Producer/Director/Writer George Miller, Voices: Elijah Wood, Robin The Thing (2011) (Sci-fi Horror) Williams, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon Universal, Not Yet Rated, Writer- Eric Heisserer The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn (Part One) (Romance) Summit Friday, October 21, 2011 - Entertainment, Not Yet Rated, Director: Bill Condon, Actor: Robert

Page 10 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 Science Exploration Space Pollution: Orbital Debris

By Donald Jacques ultimately threaten all of us from both our landfills and “orbital space-dump”. Prior to 1961 there were less than 60 Clearly NASA can no longer keep manmade objects in orbit around the its information accurate, much less earth. Today there are several million mitigate space junk, any more than floating around up there creating a politician can tell the truth. But is it increasing issues for space science, realistic to cease all future launches Space debris populations seen from outside geosynchronous orbit (GEO). Note the astronomy, and future human missions until the mess is cleaned up? I am not two primary debris fields, the ring of objects in GEO, and the cloud of objects in to space. sure, but I DO believe that the time for low earth orbit (LEO). In the same way that the collection us as individuals to reach out and pay of consumer waste and overflowing attention to what our bureaucracies Donald Jacques is currently the Executive VP, and a past president of the Moon Society of sanitation systems create threats to our are up to, and make them accountable Phoenix, and spearheading multiple projects exploring technologies for the colonization health here in our cities, so the increasing for the increasing number of “messes” of space. Donald is owner of Wiz Kidz, International, a web design and hosting company, Weavers of Dreams dot com, an author tools website, and is the author of three novels. numbers of dead, dying, and discarded they keep leaving us, the public, to deal satellites is increasing the risk to both with. The Whipple shield represents a Personal Website: www.DonaldJacques.com manned and unmanned space vehicles single effort to protect satellites in space Settlement Site: www.LunarSettlement.com placed in orbit to tell us more about our from this junk, but I was unable to find world. Just as human wastes play hosts any references to any other tool in use. to bacteria and viruses that can sicken NASA is true to it’s form of selecting New Books Published on Space and cause death in our cities, so too our one track and “sticking to it” no matter man-made objects are colliding and how limited it’s application is. Nuclear Power breaking apart into smaller and smaller I do believe that private space pieces that represent real threats to companies hold the cards in the - September 21, 2011 not only spacefaring vehicles, but on opportunity they represent. It is private occasion fall out of the sky and injure companies that represent (at least for A three volume series on the history human missions to the Red Planet by people below. now) the energy, vision, and enthusiasm and engineering of space nuclear power the 1980s. NASA, among others continues we need to tackle the challenges that and propulsion systems has just been The third and final book of this series, (after 50 years) to study the problem face us. SpaceX, Bigelow, Virgin are published. Written by 50-year space Space Nuclear Fission Electric Power using what else? more sattellites. But just a few who are exploring different nuclear program veteran David Buden, Systems, discusses the components that here is a curious thought; NASA tells ideas to further our push into space. these books provide a comprehensive make up nuclear fission power systems, us in this page that the LDEF was And just to offer my own idea ... How look into the space nuclear systems the principal requirements and safety launched in ‘82 and retrieved in ‘90, about a gas-charged parasol of mylar that may play a critical role in enabling issues involved, various development yet here, NASA LDEF Data Page they on a mile-long cable that acts like an human missions to the planet Mars. programs, status developments and say it was launched in ‘84 and retrieved anchor for satellites that have outlived The first book, Space Nuclear development issues. Such systems are in ‘90. Granted, the difference is only their usefulness. Align the satellite Radioisotope Systems, describes the key for enabling the production of rocket two years, but if they cannot keep track so the parasol points to earth, fire the technical workings of radioisotope propellants on the Martian surface, of the true data from one sattellite, how charge, sending the parasol deeper into systems, the requirements and safety thereby making possible mission plans can we expect them to keep track of the atmosphere like an air-anchor or air- design considerations of these systems, such as Mars Direct. thousands of active satellites, hundres brake. It could be built from inexpensive the different systems using this The author of this series, David Buden, of dead ones, and the millions of pieces materials, mass-produced for satellites. technology that have been developed, is an engineer whose career spans of deady bolts, tools, and other bits of Hey, its an idea, clearly something and their operational history, including five decades of space nuclear research metal threatening any new project for NASA is short of these days. CoN information on the two Viking missions and development and was involved space. using radioisotope system technology. in the development and management So, ... what now? I can imagine a host The second book, Nuclear Thermal of various advanced nuclear power of interesting sci-fi stories of the future Propulsion Systems, explores the systems from the days of the nuclear challenges to space travel, in fact, I can fundamentals of nuclear rockets, airplane to the SP-100. remember reading at least one or two including the safety issues, mission As a technical resource, these books in my life already. While intriguing, requirements, developmental history are essential for anyone interested in we must become far more aware of of various concepts both in the U.S. the engineering of space nuclear power our environment - the plastics we buy and Russia, and a summary of the systems. All three books are currently that do not degrade, the food wrappers, key developmental issues of this available for purchase at www.amazon. and coffee cups, and cigarettes we technology. This book also includes a com. indiscriminately discard out of the comprehensive history of the Rover / ______car window must each be re-thought. NERVA rocket programs, which took For further information about the We must begin holding our legislators NTP systems from the drawing board Mars Society, visit our website at www. to task for self-serving decisions that to the verge of flight tests as part of marssociety.org. CoN NASA’s post-Apollo plans to achieve Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 11 Titan ballistic missiles watch the roll- tions are recommended - Contact Mina back silo door open, follow operations Staffod e-mail mstaffordpimaair.org at the launch control center, and watch 22nd 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm CALENDAR OF EVENTS demonstrations of countdown proce- YOUNG FLYERS FUN dures. Tours begin every half hour. (For children 4 - 7 years old and their To reach the Museum go south on I adult companions). SCIENCE GROUPS CHALLENGER SPACE CENTER 19 and take exit 69 to the Duval Mine Reservations are required - Contact ARIZONA Road and follow the signs. Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ URL: http://azchallenger.org/calendar- pimaair.org ARIZONA SCIENCE CENTER of-events The MOON SOCIETY PHOENIX 28th 5:00 pm - 9:pm 21170 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria, AZ URL: http://www.msphx.org/ FAMILY EVENTS 85382; phone: 623-322-2001 NIGHT OF FRIGHT (Family friendly URL: http://www.azscience.org/ Meets the third Saturday of each month safe Halloween event). October: at Denny’s on the month at 3:00 pm. Old fashion carnival games and a Cos- October: Saturday October 1st Denny’s is located on the Southeast cor- tume Contest. New! Real Pirates Fall science Camp 10:30 am Special Viewing ner of US 60 and Rural Road. Admission for this night is free for for kids ages 6 - 12. (Legends of Flight) children under 12 and $12.00 for Saturday October 15th there will be a children over 12 and adults. Body Depot Workshops every 10:30 am Simulated Space Mission (Reservations Required) wet run of the Teleprescience Remote Contact Meghan Marum e-mail Saturday and Sunday: Control Racing Cars. This run will be [email protected] 11:30 am Monster Manual or Venom 11:30 am Properties of Liquid Nitrogen Video taped and will be available for November 5th 9:00 am - 4:00 pm 1:00 pm Busy Bones viewing on our website, www.msphx. Rocking Rock Cycle Saturday Science 12:30 am Properties of Flight (Whirlybirds) org. TUCSON RC CLUB MODEL AIR PLANE DISPLAY Family workshop Oct. 1st: 10:00 - 11:30 am 1:00 pm Simulated Space Mission Saturday November 19th we will be (Reservations Required) reviewing the ongoing Chapter’s ongo- Join members of the Tucson Radio con- Preregistration required; trol Club as they show off their aircraft call 602-716-2000 ext. 2529 ing projects, Lunar Agriculture, Lunar 1:30 pm Properties of Liquid Homesteading, Lunar Ground Trans- in Hanger 4. Nitrogen Free with paid or member admis- See what happens to rocks when they portation, Lunar Industrialization and others. sion. Contact Mina Staffod e-mail are exposed to different geological 2:30 pm Properties of Flight [email protected] events! Identify rocks by their physical (Paper Airplanes) PIMA AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM and/or chemical characteristics. Learn 5th 9:00 am - 5:00 pm to create beautiful crystals at home. Sunday October 2nd - TUCSON 10:30 am Special Viewing URL: HTTP://WWW.PIMAAIR.ORG/ WINGS AND WHEELS (Legends of Flight) 6000 E. Valencia Road A show case of historic military Ahoy There Matey! vehicles, aircraft, jeeps, trucks and Saturday Science Family Workshop Tucson, AZ 85756 10:30 am Simulated Space Mission Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm motorcycles. Oct 29th; 10:00 to 11:30 am (Reservations Required) Regular admission applies. Contact Preregistration required; call 602-716- Last admittance at 4:00 pm 520-574-0462 Meghan Marum e-mail mmarum@ 2000 ext. 2529 11:30 am StarLab Planetarium pimaair.org Yo, ho ho, it’s a pirate’s life for me! Program The Pima Air & Space Museum is one Dress like a pirate and hop aboard as 5th 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm we explore the science and technology 1:00 pm Simulated Space Mission of the largest aviation Museums ion the (Reservations Required) world, and the largest non-government Model Airplane Make and Take (Chil- of pirates who traversed the seas. Learn dren 5 and older and their adult com- about tying knots, navigation and how funded aviation museum in the United 1:30 pm Nature of Light Presentation States. The Museum maintains a col- panions.) pirate ships were affected by ocean cur- Program free with paid or member rents. lection of more than 300 aircraft and 2:30 pm Properties of Flight spacecraft from around the globe, in- admission. Reservations are suggested - Con- November: (Whirlybirds) cluding many rare and one-of-a-kind, and more than 125,000 artifacts. tact Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ Body Depot Workshops every Saturday pimaair.org and Sunday: SETI Institute October 11:30 am Monster Manual or Venom URL: hppt://www.seti.org/ 1st 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm 12th 9:30 am - 10:30 am 1:00 pm Busy Bones There are no scheduled events available at this time. Model Airplane Make and Take (Chil- NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION dren 5 and older and their adult com- (Every second Saturday of the month.) ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY Info for Media - Fact Sheets Available SETI Institute at a glance panions.) URL: http://iho.asu.edu/events_lec- 12th 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm tures SETI History The Future of SETI Research Program free with paid or member IMAGINE ROCKETS (Children 8 admission. years and older bring an adult to expe- BECOMING HUMAN: Reservations are suggested - Con- rience the power of rockets. 30th ANNIVERSARY LECTURE TITAN MISSILE MUSEUM tact Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ Reservations are recommended - Con- SERIES URL: hppt://www.titanmissilemuseum. org/ pimaair.org tact Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ (for additional information on lecture pimaair.org series go to iho.asu.edu/30thlectures) 1580 West Duval Mine Road, 8th 9:30 am - 10:30 am All lectures will take place at 5:30 pm Sahuarita, AZ NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION 26th 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm at the Carson Ballroom, Old Main. The Open hours Monday thru Sunday from (Every second Saturday of the month.) YOUNG FLYERS FUN (For children Museum of Anthropology will be open 8:45 am - 5:00 pm. 8th 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm 4 - 7 years old and their adult compan- from 7:00 to 8:00 immediately after ions). each lecture. The Titan Missile Museum south of Tuc- son must surely be considered unique IMAGINE ROCKETS (Children 8 Reservations are required - Contact years and older bring an adult to expe- Mina Staffod e-mail mstafford@ Origin of the Genus Homo and a chilly reminder of the Cold War. rience the power of rockets.Reserva- pimaair.org Thursday October 6 5:30 - 7:00 pm. Go underground and see one of the old Page 12 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 AUTHOR SIGNINGS Anthology Event with editors Leslie 9:00 a.m. KATHLEEN COOK - Pub- PUBLIC SERVICE Klinger and Laurie R. King with other lishing on Amazon’s Create Space Upcoming Signings / Events at contributors - 6 pm - Poisoned Pen 10:30 a.m. PATRICIA L. BROOKS - ANNOUNCEMENTS The Poisoned Pen Publish Yourself as the Expert 4014 N Goldwater Blvd. Suite 101 November 29 – Diana Gabaldon HARD ROCK CAFE PHOENIX HOSTS Scottsdale, AZ 85251 launches The Scottish Prisoner at the MEET UP WRITING WORK- “JACK AND WHITE” FEATURING www.poisonedpen.com Arizona Biltmore – 7 pm - Details via SHOPS OR CRITIQUE GROUPS: “AMERICAN IDOL” BROOKE WHITE 1-888-560-9919 Poisoned Pen AS PART OF GLOBAL PINKTOBER™ BREAST CANCER AWARENESS CAM- East Valley Writing Workshop October 18 – F. Paul Wilson signs Dark PAIGN - Event to Benefit The Breast Can- December 3 – Holiday SF/F Authors Wednesdays, 6:00 PM at the End and S. J. Rozan signs Ghost cer Society Event with many local science fiction at Village Inn in Mesa, AZ Hero – 7 pm and fantasy authors appearing. Details Phoenix, AZ, September 20, 2011 October 22 – Richard Kadrey signs TBA at the Poisoned Pen East Valley Writing Workshop – Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix brings Aloha From Hell - 5 pm Sunday Oct 02, 1:00 PM at Shadow together musicians and fans for the The Poisoned Pen, 4014 N Goldwater Mountain Village - Main Clubhouse in 2011 PINKTOBER™ campaign – November 4 – John Connolly signs Blvd. Suite 101, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Scottsdale, AZ supporting a cause that affects millions The Burning Soul and Infernals – 7 pm www.poisonedpen.com across the globe. On Friday, October 7, 2011, Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix will host November 19 – A Study in Sherlock Publishing, Networking, and Marketing Changing Hands, 6428 S McClintock live performances by “American Idol” Anthology Event with editors Leslie Meetup -- FIRST Saturdays, monthly Dr., Tempe, Arizona www.changing- Finalist and Arizona native, Brooke Klinger and Laurie R. King with other Shadow Mountain Village - Main Club- hands.com White and her band “Jack and White” contributors - 6 pm house - 1pm - 3pm 8780 E Mckellips Road, Scottsdale, AZ and local band Chicks With Picks. Proceeds from the event will benefit November 29 – Diana Gabaldon B&Ns locations can be found at The Breast Cancer Society, an Arizona- launches The Scottish Prisoner at the BN.com READING GROUPS based organization that is one of the only Arizona Biltmore – 7 pm AUTHOR EVENTS The CASFS Book Discussion is national breast cancer charities with a December 3 – Holiday SF/F Authors held at: Bookmans - 8034 North 19th primary focus on providing direct help Event with many local science fiction SEDONA BOOK FESTIVAL and Avenue in Phoenix (NWC 19th Avenue and financial aid to those suffering from breast cancer. and fantasy authors appearing. Scottsdale Society of Women Writers & Northern). Community Room in the Details TBA Saturday, October 1 · 9:00am - 5:00pm back of the store. For the 12th year, Hard Rock locations Location: Yavapai College Sedona worldwide support the cause through the Monday, October 3 - Scott Westerfeld 4215 Arts Center Drive, Sedona, AZ October 18, 2011 - The Man with the multifaceted PINKTOBER campaign. signs Goliath - 7:00 pm at Changing More Info: Golden Torc by Simon Green Get spotted at your local Hard Rock Hands, Tempe partying for PINK, while listening to SEDONA BOOK FESTIVAL November 15, 2011 - Do Androids the sounds of rising stars at live-music Third annual event Dream of Electric Sheep by Philip K Tuesday, October 4 - C. J. Hill signs events, benefiting local breast cancer www.sedonabookfestival.com Dick Slayers - 7:00 pm at Changing Hands, AUTHORS and VENDORS and organizations. Or be seen sipping Hard Rock’s non-alcoholic PINK drinks and Tempe SPEAKERS MUSIC and FOOD FREE OTHER EVENTS dining on PINK menu offerings at Hard to the public. Get out of the heat and Wednesday, October 5 - Scott Wester- Women Arising Conference Rock Cafe locations throughout the come to the Red Rocks! feld signs Goliath - 7:00 pm at Barnes October 9 and 10 month. & Noble, Dana Park, Mesa An empowering boutique women’s JAMMIN FALL FESTIVAL Is shopping more your style? Rock the event featuring inspirational women Sunday, October 23 · 3:00pm - 7:00pm season’s hottest color with Hard Rock’s October 18 – F. Paul Wilson signs Dark Location: JAM presenters at the glorious Enchantment PINKTOBER merchandise including at the End and S. J. Rozan signs Ghost 6938 E. 1st Street Resort in the awe-inspiring red rocks the limited-edition 2011 PINKTOBER Hero – 7 pm Old Town Scottsdale, 85251 of Sedona. pin, a wearable replica of “Artist Arts, Crafts & Antiques for YOU! Ambassador” and breast cancer survivor October 22 – Richard Kadrey signs Celebrate EFAZ’s 10th Anniversary We’ll be jammin right into Fall @ Melissa Etheridge’s custom Ovation Aloha From Hell - 5 pm October 13 - 6:00-9:00pm jam. Located in the historical Charles PINK guitar. Additional offerings The Hackett House, Tempe, AZ Miller home in Old Town Scottsdale include the 2011 PINKTOBER T-shirt, Friday, October 28 - Joseph Nassise Tickets are $29/person. robe, PINK sheets, pin and more. in the newly developed Charles Miller signs Eyes to See, Barnes & Noble, efaz.org Products are sold exclusively at Hard Square. Desert Ridge 7:00 pm Environmental Fund for Arizona Rock properties worldwide, including (EFAZ) is a vibrant partnership of Cafes, Hotels, Casinos and on www. AZ AUTHORS FALL WRITERS Saturday, October 29 - Halloween with 29 envrironmental and conservation hardrock.com. Proceeds from the sale CIRCLE - publishing experts to Tom Leveen - 7:00 pm at Changing nonprofits all across Arizona. We serve of PINKTOBER products will benefit speak Hands. YA author Tom Leveen (Party, to connect Arizonans with the amazing The Breast Cancer Research Foundation Saturday, October 8 · 9:00am -12:00pm Zero) directs a cast of local actors in variety of ‘green’ causes across the state, (US) and The Caron Keating Foundation Location: McKeown Landscape this creepy, fun evening of readers’ and to provide education, volunteer (UK) with 75 percent of the retail price Conference Room theatre, featuring classic and contem- opportunities, and ways to donate to the of each pin and 15 percent of the retail 8028 W. Thunderbird Road, Peoria, AZ porary works from EC Comics’ The causes you love. price of other products going directly to Haunt of Fear and The Vault Of Horror, the cause. AZ AUTHORS ASSOCIATION WEL- Lord Byron, Ray Bradbury, Edgar Al- The breast cancer race/walk - sunday, COMES Patricia L. Brooks and Kath- lan Poe, and more! Oct 23, 2011 When: Friday, October 7, 2011 leen Cook 7:30 p.m. Event begins PLEASE NOTE OUR New Location: Registration online today at: November 4 – John Connolly signs Where: Hard Rock Cafe Phoenix McKeown Landscape Meeting Room Active.com --- Keyword: The Breast The Burning Soul and Infernals – 7 pm 3 South 2nd Street, Phoenix, AZ www.azauthors.com Cancer Race/Walk 2011 - Poisoned Pen 602-261-7625 FREE to all participants - registration [email protected] Admission: $10 Suggested donation recommended [email protected] November 19 – A Study in Sherlock Phone: 480-284-4014 x 109 All ages welcome

Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 13 FEATURE ARTICLE: Which Type of Sci-fi Reader Are You? By Melanie Tighe

Many bookstores still shelve sci-fi and used this method, for the past two years, fantasy together, a practice that drives to help guide my customers in their most Sci-Fi readers to fume and mutter search to find new books to enjoy. while they scan the shelves for something Trekkies, of course, enjoy reading the new to read. Who can seriously believe series Star Trek. They read to learn the that the works of Tolkien and Asimov philosophy of the future. I have found have anything in common? At Dog- they also savor Asimov’s Foundation Eared Pages, one of the first things I did series, Herbert’s Dune series, Orwell’s was to separate them. However, after 1984 and Heinlein’s Stranger in a three years of helping readers find new Strange Land. It’s not so much about authors, I believe the science fiction the advanced technology, but the more section could be divided even further. subtle and profound thoughts these swords swashing and titanium helms Anna Questerly author of The I could be wrong, although I rarely books force their readers to tackle. buckling. They root for the good guys Minstrel’s Tale and manager of Dog- am, (just don’t ask my husband). There Trekkies love to read about the possible and see themselves in the midst of the Eared Pages bookstore in North have been no studies or experiments futures of mankind, both good and bad. action. Above all, they crave a great Phoenix. Anna can be reached at to back up my theory, but I believe They relish the politics, belief systems story. www.annaquesterly.com or www. there are different reasons why people and schools of thought about the future. Are you a Trekkie or a Warrior? Or dogearedpagesusedbooks.com or read the genre. While all sci-fi lovers Trekkies often ponder and anguish over do you think there should be a third through Facebook as either Anna share the common expectation that which direction we are headed for now. category? Do you believe my theory Questerly or Dog-Eared Pages. the advancements and achievements Warriors, are a completely different lacks substance and should be shoved in technology are paramount and the breed. They devour the Star Wars series. into the theory disposal unit? I’d be Dog-Eared Pages, LLC science behind them better be accurate They’re usually drawn to authors such interested to hear your thoughts. I’m still (602) 283-5423 and believable, I think there are two as Cherryh, Bova, Card and Clarke. considering whether to break my sci-fi 16428 N. 32nd Street, Suite 111 Phoenix, AZ 85032 distinct types of readers. I call them Warriors read for adventure. Warriors section down into these two categories, www.dogearedpagesusedbooks.com trekkies and warriors. I have successfully want their battles complete with lasers and would love to hear from some hard- core sci-fi readers. CoN CoNTINUEd FEATURE ARTICLE: An American in Iberian Peninsula Part 5: Lifeboat drill B By Jeffrey Lu

“Why are we wasting time? Why do we I looked across the ocean. I was packed do this stupid thing?” said an American with other passengers like sardines but tourist with an over-sized Mae West life did not mind the fuss. It was an initiation jacket. and wake-up call to the harsh cold sea. Anything can happen here. Including I replied, “I’m sure The Titanic would the thought of a sinking ship. have loved to have this.” Anyway, I chatted with friends and He paused and looked at me. With a allies to pass the time. Then the ship’s shrug, he said, “I stand corrected.” blared its horn for the last time. The fi nal announcement was thanks for waiting. The reason for this outing on the fi rst The crowd slowly dispersed. day of the cruise was to go to one’s quarters, wear a life jacket, and walk I walked back to my cabin to put away to where the lifeboats were. The down my orange rectangle fl oatation device. side was not only the long hours of Hoping on this cruise, never to use it. waiting in a very crowded area with the afternoon sun shining but listening to NEXT ISSUE: An American in Iberian German, Italian, French, Spanish and Peninsula Part Six: Genoa, Italy English instructions,

Not fun but necessary. One of the CoN crewmen adjusted my life jacket.

Page 14 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 been smoking for three years and had driveway and I followed him. looked at me, but he had a blank stare FEATURED virtually shunned aerobic exercise. In the house, he led me to the living and I could tell he wasn’t really looking The house was large and yet it seemed room. The furniture was dusty and the at me. compact. It was a series of interlocking fireplace was full of ash. I sneezed and “They went away,” said Jacob. cubes, which gave the house the coughed. Jacob didn’t seem to notice. “I need to leave Jacob. It is getting appearance of a child’s toy. The house “I will get the tea.” Jacob disappeared late and dark. Thank you for the gas was dark and I wasn’t sure if anyone into the foyer, which I assumed led to Jacob. I am leaving. OK?” I was only was home. I walked up the stairs on the the kitchen. a few steps from the front door when porch and was about to knock when the I looked around and noticed several Jacob reached out his hand and grabbed door opened. photos of two dark haired girls – one my arm. He was still swinging the ax “Oh, hello.” The man who opened the had a toothy grin and the other had a with his other arm. door look flustered, as if he had been in toothless grin. I also noticed a picture of “Women always leave,” said Jacob in FICTION an argument and had lost. a woman with lustrous black hair. She a low voice. I pulled away from his arm “Hello,” I said. “My car ran out of gas wasn’t smiling and looked terribly sad. and opened the front door. My heart by your driveway. Do you know how As I stared at the photos I felt a rush of was pounding so hard in my chest that I far away a gas station is?” cool air and the presence of something thought I might faint. Jacob The man blinked. “I have extra gas in heavy. I looked at my arms and noticed I ran down the driveway and almost By Risa Peris my garage.” that I had goose bumps and my fine hair fell two times as my speed and the “Oh, good. I can pay you. Thank was standing straight up as if pulled by descending gradient caused me to I had run out of gas near a dirt driveway you.” a magnet. I looked around me and saw stumble. When I saw the car I stopped at a bend in a long road, weaving its The man closed the door and headed to nothing. to pull my car keys out of my purse. My way through the forest. I was far into the garage on the left side of the house. “Jacob,” I called. There was no hands fumbled and finally caught hold the Appalachian Mountains and had I wasn’t sure I should follow him, so I answer. I wandered to the fireplace and of the surfing board key chain that had been crisscrossing through its terrain stayed on the porch. The man emerged a looked at the mantel. There were more “California” stamped on it. for days. I had no destination and my minute later holding a red gas can with pictures of the girls and the woman, and My car started after two tries and I only goal was to explore. That is what a long spout. He started walking down as I gazed at them I heard footsteps. I slammed on the accelerator and sped I told myself, but really I was running the driveway. I ran to catch up with him. turned around and saw nothing. down the highway. I drove 80 MPH from a life I didn’t like. The man seemed much focused, as if he “Jacob,” I called again. There was until I saw a sign for a motor inn about I had a job as waitress that bored me, were concentrating on a difficult task. still no answer. I suddenly had a heavy a half hour from the house. It was called and a boyfriend more enraptured by “My name is Arlene,” I said. sense that all was not right. I looked the Snooze Inn and when I saw the comic books than me. When my Aunt “Jacob,” uttered the man quickly. out the window and saw that dusk was lights and the cars parked in the parking Agnes died two weeks ago I was given Jacob was slightly shy of six feet. He shading into night and that the forest lot I breathed a strong sigh of relief. her old Lincoln Continental and the had dark hair threaded with gray and was gradually becoming draped in deep I went to the front office and asked for balance of one of her savings accounts, was wearing an oversized gray sweater black. a room. The desk attendee was old and which amounted to $685.06. I sold my with brown slacks and suede shoes. He I heard a distinctive creek. I looked up he was smoking Marlboros. decade old Honda Accord and was able had the ruffled and astringent look of a and saw Jacob standing a few feet from “You look like you have been through to collect an additional $550.00. I was professor. me. He had an ax in his right hand and a war,” said the man in a raspy voice. flush with money and decided to take a “How long have you lived “I think I need to talk to the police,” I vacation from work and my boyfriend here?” I asked. told him. and hit the open road. The Appalachians Jacob looked at me and shook “What happened?” I told him about were my first choice, full of mist and his head. “I don’t remember.” running out of gas, the dark house, the mystery. The roads were often bumpy I thought the answered odd ax and Jacob. but I had yet to blow a tire. At night, I but didn’t press him. We were “I know what house you are talking stayed in little motels and inns off the coming close to the highway about,” said the man. “Shame what side of the road. Each night I would and Jacob broke into a sprint happened to that family. They were check the mattress for bed bugs. when he saw the mailbox. He killed by Jacob. Practically split each I had been driving through the stood in front of it for a few of them in two with an ax. It was the mountains for hours and forgot to check seconds and then opened the biggest story to come out of this place the gas. The blue green mountains, crisp latch. He peered in and then in almost six decades.” sky and deep forests had distracted me. looked confused. “We should call the police,” I said I was surprised when my car chugged, “I never seem to get mail,” he frantically. “I just saw Jacob.” spurted and then died. At first I thought said. “Not possible. He killed himself with my engine had malfunctioned and then “You are definitely in the a shot gun.” I looked at the gas gauge. boonies.” I looked at Jacob and “But I just saw him.” “Damn, damn, damn,” I yelled. smiled. “I can pour the gas.” “I don’t know what to tell you. No one I couldn’t remember how far back a Jacob looked down at the red has lived in that house for two years. gas station was and I couldn’t remember container. “Nonsense. I will The grandparents can’t sell it because any signs indicating that a gas station pour the gas.” He walked to the of the massacre.” was up ahead. I got out of the car and right side of the car and opened “But…” looked around me. The narrow highway the gasket. He fitted the spout “Relax. Here is your key.” was girded by dark trees and even into the gasket and tilted the I grabbed the key and walked numbly darker hills. I was about to start crying container up. It only took a few out of the office. I stared into the night in frustration when I saw a mailbox. It minutes for the gas to empty full of nocturnal sounds. Tomorrow had 638 etched onto it. I walked over into my tank. I would drive far away from Jacob to the mailbox and opened it. It was “Have tea with me,” said Jacob. he was swinging it gently. and that strange house on the hill. But empty, but I could see that the dirt path “I really shouldn’t impose.” I was “They wouldn’t listen.” Jacob was somehow I knew Jacob would weave was really a driveway and I felt hopeful. anxious to drive and find an inn to hole staring at the mantel. his way through my mind for years to I pulled my purse out of the front seat up in for the night. I felt a strong jolt of alarm. “Who come. I thought of the pictures of the and locked my car. “No imposition. I rarely get visitors wouldn’t listen?” girls and the woman. I shivered and I trudged up the driveway breathing and would love to chat.” “The girls, my wife…they just headed to Room 6 where I would check hard and practically panting. The I couldn’t say no. The man had just wouldn’t listen.” for bed bugs and quell the hard fear in driveway was on a steep gradient and I given me gas. “OK.” “What happened to them?” I asked as my stomach with vodka and orange was not at my physical best since I had “Wonderful.” Jacob started up the I edged towards the front door. Jacob juice. CoN Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 15 of redemption, wrath, despair, gets a much needed upgrade. MOVIE/VIDEO REVIEW: and hope with compassion and Eventually, these three form the core X-Men 1st Class As with all complexity. of a government-assembled cadre of By Chris Paige reboots, some The movie starts by showing young mutants. Some have minor h i s t o r i c a l two boys with completely different abilities, some have awkward, hard X-Men 1st Class is first-rate. Stan revisioning backgrounds and experiences of to control powers, and not everyone Lee himself had a hand on the helm, occurs, but World War II. Eric is interred in a wants to join - such as a certain irate, and made sure that this film steered much less concentration camp and tortured bearded, beer-swilling Canadian. true. than in most to trigger his mutant powers, while Then things turn ugly. Viewers who have never picked M a r v e l wealthy, privileged Charles, who is For Eric’s nemesis, the man up a comic book can enjoy this t r a n s i t i o n s clearly more intelligent than any of who killed his family and tortured movie for its strong, focused story- to film. The the adults around him even without him, has figured out that the telling, action sequences, character X-Men, after his ability to read (and control) massive radiation released by the development, and the eye candy all, are probably minds, befriends an outcast, runaway bombs dropped on Hiroshima and component. (Lots of eye candy!!) the team closest to Stan Lee’s heart, shape-changer named Raven, Nagasaki, not to mention all the Aficionados can savor the nuances and not just because of their success. virtually adopting the blue-skinned subsequent testing of bombs by of forming and shifting alliances, They have been the team that girl as his sister. The three mutants cold war world powers, has caused and historians can get a kick out of challenges our social prejudices and evolve into a one man obsessed a spike in the occurrence of children the cultural depictions. One reviewer reflects our social moods; they deal with avenging his past, another who born with mutant powers. He wants sneered fiercely at an ethnically with political fallouts; they are the thoughtlessly uses his powers to his to encourage this evolution of the stereotyped scene later in the film, Platonically just men (and women) own advantage, and a shy woman species, and the fastest way to make but the very stereotyping of that scene who act justly even when there is who hides in the shadow of the more mutants while simultaneously is a historically accurate example of no reward for doing so, even when “brother” who ignores her feelings. clearing the field of competition it how strongly held prejudices were they are vilified; under writer Chris They meet when Charles saves to initiate a third world war, one that getting exploded in the 1960s. It’s an Claremont, they introduced concepts Eric’s life, and all three humanize will blanket the planet in radiation. embarrassing steryotype now; back of spirituality and philosophy each other. Eric genuinely befriends Humans will die, mutants will then, it was a game-changer. And radically new to many readers; and Raven: he thinks she is beautiful and flourish. An elegant solution, is it the cold war showdown, laid over a over the years, as villains became he admires her power; meanwhile, not? With his own assembled team bed of simmering fury left over from heroes and heroes became villains, in the process of arguing ethics of ruthless and extremely powerful World War II, is utterly riveting. the X-Men have exemplified themes with Eric, Charles’ own conscience mutants, he is goading the United States and the USSR into attacking each other with nuclear weapons, while simultaneously attacking the stronghold where the young mutants are held - not to assassinate them, to recruit them! And really, which would you choose? On the one side, there is the government agency which isolates you from the world and whose agents ridicule you because they fear you, but there are also your friendships and a budding sense of shared purpose; on the other side, an invitation to be winners and creators of a new world, even if your new boss is creepy-scary and has a murderous henchman who sports horns and a tail. For several hours after seeing the movie I found myself wondering, if I were such and such character, what would I have done? Would I have behaved differently? The true indicator of a movie’s achievement is not only how many times you make sounds like Homer Simpson to express your approval, but also, how long it lives with you after the lights come up. CoN

Page 16 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 Hammerhead Club 40k http://www.cemeterydance.com Gamers CALENDAR: tournament. 1st Wed, noon http://www.contact-conference.org/ Magic The Gathering League. Wed, 6pm http://www.devastationevent.com/ Friday Night Magic. Fridays, 7pm http://www.drawntocomics.com Saboten Con Empire games http://www.edgewebsite.com For the Otaku in you! 1766 S Greenfield Rd #102, Mesa, AZ SAMURAI COMICS http://www.azchallenger.org 85206 - 480-813-1525 (check website for correct store http://www.gamersinnaz.com/ Sept 30 - Oct 2, 2011 http://www.empiregamesaz.com/pmwiki. location) http://www.imperialoutpost.com http://sabotencon.conmagick.com/in- php?n=Main.Calendar Yugioh Tournament. Sundays, http://www.library.pima.gov dex.php/site/index noon (Cmlbk) & Sat, noon (west http://www.loftcinema.com/showtimes Game Nightz valley) http://madcaptheaters.com/ 10225 N Metro Pkwy E GAME DAZE: Anime Club. Sundays, noon (west http://www.pimaair.org Phoenix, AZ 85051-1515 ALL EVENT CAN BE FOUND valley) http://www.poisonedpen.com (602) 870-8501 ONLINE AT: http://www.gamedaze. Pokemon. Sundays, 2pm (west http://www.pspublishing.co.uk http://www.gamenightz.com/calendar com/GameDaze-Whats-Happening.aspx valley), Wed 5pm (Cmlbk) http://www.pyrsf.com/catalog.html D&D Encounters. Wed, 6pm http://www.samuraicomics.com GAMING & COMIC EVENTS GAME DAZE CORPORATE (Cmblk) http://www.scottsdalepublicart.org/ DRAWN TO COMICS 1407 W. 10th Place, Suite #A-105 Magic, The Gathering. Friday, TheLibraryTheGallery.php Tempe, AZ 85281 Marvel vs Capcom 1st Fridays 6pm 6p (both stores), Tues, 6pm (west http://www.seti.org HeroClix. Sat 1pm valley), Sat 1pm (Cmlbk), Mon http://www.subterraneanpress.com/ ARIZONA MILLS Sit-and-Sketch with local artists. 6pm (Cmlbk) http://www.titanmissilemuseum.org/ 5000 Arizona Mills Circle #530 3rd Saturday, 6pm-8pm http://tucsoncomic-con.com/ Tempe, AZ 85282 Check FaceBook for other events http://tucsonfestivalofbooks.org/ ARROWHEAD TOWNE CENTRE Check web sites or contact stores for more GAME DEPOT 7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center #2256 info: Glendale, AZ 85308 HeroClix. Wed, 5:45pm-8pm D&D Encounters. Wed, 6pm-8pm Game Depot, 480-966-4727 Magic, The Gathering. Thurs, 6pm. CHANDLER FASHION CENTER http://www.azscience.org Open Game Day. Fridays all day 3111 W Chandler Blvd #2416 http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/ Chandler, AZ 85226 Flames of War Fridays 2pm storelocator/stores.aspx?x=y& 30th Store Anniv, lots of events Aug 6 http://beyond.asu.edu Paradise Valley Mall L5R cardgame Aug 20 noon http://www.bookmans.com 4550 E. Cactus Road #302 WarHammer 40K 2-day NOVA http://www.borders.com/online/store/ Phoenix, AZ 85032 tournament Sept 3-4 LocatorView Magic the Gathering Celebration Superstition Springs Center Sept 10 noon 6555 E. Southern Ave. #2026 Mesa, AZ 85206 GAMER’S INN Tucson Mall Check website for upcoming events 4500 N. Oracle Road #166 Tucson, AZ 85705 IMPERIAL OUTPOST GAMES Federation Commander. 2nd Park Place Mall Saturdays, noon 5870 E Broadway Blvd # 258 RPGA. 1st Sundays Tucson, AZ 85711 Monday Night Magic Standard Format. Mon, 7pm. Pop Culture Paradise Boardgames & Demo Nite. 707 S. Forest Ave. #A, on ASU Campus Tempe, AZ 85281 (480) 557-6640 Mondays & Thursdays, 6pm. Calendar: [email protected] Magic Drafts. Tues, 7pm or get calendar online at http://www. War Machine. Wednesdays, 4pm popculture-comics.com/ Hammerhead 40K Club Meeting. Wed & Thurs, noon

Gamers Corner: GAMING Mini-Cons Take the Valley by Storm By Jason Youngdale

Gamers across the valley have taken at these events. Come out and try up the quest to keep board game, a new game or make new friends card game, and RPG events alive while getting out of your house. The and well outside the realm of hobby Guise Knights, AZ Men In Black, stores and conventions. One day Time Renegades, and other official mini-cons are the new rage, with valley gaming groups are in regular them being hosted at someone’s attendance, and several events at house for a more intimate setting both ends of the valley will give you that is laid back. These events are a chance to hang out. Volunteers are free, though donations are accepted also always welcome. See you at the as free food and drink are the norm next one!

Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 17 - “supermen” - deemed heretical by the live the millennia elves enjoy, impose Catholic Church, and feared by colonists. or endure the burden of age-discrepancy The question is, are they feared for upon a wife? A mortal young enough In Our Books themselves, or for the repercussion of to bear children would be a mere child sterilization that is visited upon planets in his eyes; and the elven maids who infected by hubris incarnate? Or is the show an interest are ... old enough to Church simply looking for an excuse be his mother. Heck, they all remember that effectively divides Webmind in www: WONDER to get rid of a planetary population that his mother. And honestly, he has more by Robert J. Sawyer two separate entities - with disastrous enjoys a heretical, happy freedom of pressing concerns, like protecting the Ace Books, 2011, $25.95, 338 pages results, for the parts are considerably its own? Theoretically, by sending five kingdom from invasion. less than the whole. investigators, only one of whom is a Mikeli has his own hornets’ nest to www: WONDER I refuse to provide spoilers, because priest, an objective and fair assessment deal with. - Chris Paige follows www:WAKE the revelations are brilliant, and each will be made. Hmmm. and www: WATCH. reader deserves the chance to discover Five different agendas - more, when Evolve Two These three books this treasure trove for him/herself. Not you factor in the citizens of Pock’s Edited by Nancy Kilpatrick constitute a genuine only are the plotlines intriguing, the World and the diallelons - jostle for pre- Edge Science Fiction and Fantasy trilogy - not a characters are wonderful. These include eminence in this story, and the reader Publishing, 2011, 263 pp massively large Caitlyn’s mother, an expert in Games gets to make up his or her own mind as single story that got Theory; Caitlyn’s dad, a mathematical which has the ring of truth, or if all of This anthology published in three genius who happens to have Asperger’s’ them are variations on a theme of self- presents a variety of volumes, not a “trilogy” that expands Syndrome; Hobo, who confronts no less deception. vampiric futures, all into an unending series, but an actual august body than the United Nations, The cover art is designed to appeal of them exploring trilogy like the Greek playwrights and tells members the truth about to the young adult market, but there is aspects of predator- used to construct, each with its own themselves; and Wai-Jeng, a hacker who YA and YA. Pock’s World is in Golden prey relationships, thesis, antithesis, and synthesis, each risks his life to make communication Compass territory, not to be confused some with humor, contributing its part to a story arc; the possible in Communist China. How can with teen angst or Heinleinian chest- some via horror, ending is definitively The End, and a you not love a book in which a nerd thumping. - Chris Paige several with most satisfying one it is. All together, with Asperger’s is one of the heroes?!? truly original twists of the tail. The they make for one of the best SF reading The book was published weeks Kings of the North demarcations of hunter and hunted are experiences to come along in the last 3 before a certain international event that by Elizabeth Moon often ambiguous. Stories are organized years. I simply cannot say enough good had huge political ramifications, but Del Rey, 2011, $26.oo, 478 pp into three groups: Pre-Apocalypse, things about these books - just, WOW! other events, such as the 2012 election, Post-Apocalypse, and New World If you haven’t already discovered how are anticipated with unusual warmth - When an author Order. Some of the Pre-Apocalypse good a writer Sawyer is, this is a great even heat. It is increasingly rare for SF returns to a trilogy stories, however, are already set in time to discover him, and to share the to take on politics with any directness; after an absence of extreme conditions of over-population adventure. This series, with its young but with all the leverage and censorship 20 years and extends and global warming that are far past heroine, qualifies as SF/Young Adult politicians exert on scientific endeavors, it, there is invariably the tipping point, barely this side of the cross-genre, and makes for an excellent it is past time for writers to return the a shift; the author breakdown threshold. gift set. compliment. herself has changed, One of my favorites is “Six There are three subplots that develop For all the book is sheer fun to read, hence, so does the Underground” by Michael Lorenson: and intertwine in these books. First, it is hugely informative. Very, very few story-telling. Moon’s in a neat reversal of the film Twelve Caitlyn Decter, 15 years old and blind writers provide an education along with style of writing is less romantic in tone, Angry Men, a lone juror who is from birth, good at math and science their story; Sawyer is one of the best. I less Tolkienesque, more pragmatic, convinced that a Guilty verdict should with a strong online persona, is invited hope he gets a Hugo nomination for this even as she describes wonders and be returned, sets out to convince the to participate in an experimental surgery one. - Chris Paige terrors, magic, necromancy, elves and other 11. The story has cunning layers that might make her sighted. Second, daskdraudigs. of logic and revelation, and more SF the world-wide web is developing Pock’s World Kings of the North is the 5th in the packed into its pages than any other by Dave Duncan sentience. And third, a bonobo-chimp epic Deed of Paksenarrion continuum. three stories combined. “Toothless” is Edge Science Fiction, 2010, $15.oo, 250 pp hybrid named Hobo is at the heart of a The focus has shifted away from another standout; a detective story set research project studying cross-species Paksenarrion herself to the men she in a near future where a few minutes of communication. The potentials of cross- Pock’s World examines the made kings: Kieri and Mikeli. Paks still exposure to sunlight is enough to boil boundary communication is the theme shows up, but she is very much on the anyone’s skin. (In both these stories, at the heart of the trilogy. human tendency, or temptation, to sidelines, at least for now. the differences between humans and In this, the third volume, Caitlyn her Kieri is under pressure to re-marry vampires are vanishing.) The descriptions friends and family are trying to protect a play God. Five men and women, each and provide heirs to the kingdom, of how vampires are being affected still fragile Webmind from Government preferably heirs who will strengthen by all the ambient radiation, and by agents who want to shut it down while of them influential in very different the elven-mortal ties and be able to human adaptations, are simultaneously they still can. Webmind has some good wield magic. He is reluctant to make hilarious and ghastly. “Nosangreal” by ideas on how to demonstrate his benign ways (political, moneyed, media-sleaze, corporate, and a merely political alliance, especially Ivan Dorin is the weirdest contribution, nature, and he wins lots of friends as when adjacent kings are sending their and yes, that’s a compliment. The other he uses his information sorting and religious) are sent to evaluate whether the population of an entire planet young daughters as either hostages or two I enjoyed the most were “Out with synthesis skills to help humanity. assassins. Furthermore, he is distracted the Old”, a Post-Apocalyptic story by Even so, said agents are ungrateful needs to be “sterilized” to eliminate an “alien” influence from taking hold. by warning messages from ghosts, and by William Meikle, and Sandra Kasturi’s and terminally paranoid. While the US the incomprehensible, erratic behaviour “The Slow Turning of the World”, government tries to directly destroy But just how alien are they, really? The so-called Diallelon abominations of his elven grandmother who is the co- which is the end piece, and an unusually the basis for Webmind’s existence, the ruler of the kingdom. Most problematic successful example of pure narrative. Chinese government erects a firewall are nothing other than extensively genetically modified synthetic hominins of all, how could he, a half-elf who can Ms. Kilpatrick did fine work here, expect to live for centuries but will not and her Introduction essay is good to Page 18 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 read in and of itself. Anyone looking The Canadian New can be a problem. Morgan is on the trail tangling our heroine’s movements and for reading group material, or for Wave of edgy fiction of a murderer who seems to be after creating an emotional cliff-hanger. Just examples of modern fiction to share continues with this immortality - why else the obsession like real life, that. with a literature class, should consider collection of short with 15th century alchemist John Dee According to Carrie Vaughan, it is assigning some of these. Definitely fiction and poetry of and his works? very important to support the series you recommended. - Chris Paige Zombie erotica. It is Levene brings startling elements like while they are still new. If the first appropriately broken together: alchemy, Old Testament one sells well, there will be more. But if Awakenings down into categories conflicts, angels, demons, shape- readers wait to see if the series succeeds by Edward Lazellari of Romance, changers and tricksters. She is good with before they commit, it won’t. So if A Tor Book, 2011, $24.99, 348 pp Revenge, Risk, and details, from the high-school assassin you’ve ever wondered what happened to Raunch. If you loooove zombies, or wearing a George W. Bush mask, to so-and-so’s oh so promising series that A band of guardians if you want a dementedly fresh (heh!) Alex’s forays into a realm where truths petered out after only two installments, from another take on erotica, this is the book for you. are ugly and lies hurt the speaker like now you know: too many readers held dimension were sent It’s a quality paperback with gorily knives, to the emotional undertows that off, and that killed the publisher’s to our world to find, lurid illustrations throughout by Galen drag characters into dark waters. The commitment. So try to find at least protect, and serve a Dara, Miranda Jean, and Robert Nixon. climax takes place in a very ... surprising one enjoyable new author a month and lost prince, but in a The mixture of passion, love, lust, and place, and what happens there is all actually buy a book, e-format or paper, miserable fluke of horror in these short stories - most of kinds of problematic. Honestly, you to keep them viable. - Chris Paige the transport, they all them are less than a 1000 words - is will want to see where she takes this in arrived with wiped astonishingly arousing. This could be the sequel. 7th Sigma memories, strangers and orphans in a the year’s outstanding gift book for Of all the speculative genres, horror, by Frederik Pohl strange land. To the best of their abilities fetishers, either for the holidays or because it deals with inner scapes and An Orb Book, 2011, $16.99, 267 pages they are leading ‘ordinary’ lives, but next Valentine’s Day, because it will strong passions, tends to be the most their natures warp reality around them probably put your partner in a playful gripping. Horror tends to ask, indirectly, It is quite important to read the quotes to a certain extent. Callum MacDonnell mood. - Chris Paige the tough questions, questions like at the beginnings of parts and chapters is a policeman with a family, a man What do you want? What will you pay of 7th Sigma; not only do they explain of integrity, courage, and honor. Seth The Infernal Game: Ghost Dance to get it? and Are you the sort of person the title and prepare the reader for what Raincrest is a trickster who seems to by Rebecca Levene who tries to cheat on the Deal? Every follows, they make amply clear that survive every situation, no matter how Abaddon Books, 2010, $9.99, 277 pp now and then, it can be cathartic to take this fantastic book is a science-fiction disastrous it proves for others. Daniel is a long look in that dark mirror. - Chris version of Rudyard Kipling’s young in foster care, and no matter how hard Two story lines Paige adult novel, Kim. Yes!!!!! he tries to do the right thing, violence converge in this Just as Pat Murphy’s There and erupts around him, overwhelming him supernatural thriller Black Wings Back Again was an SF (and gender- and others. about Alex, an by Christina Henry bending) tribute to The Hobbit, and Now a former ally Lelani has unwilling agent for Ace Books, 2011, $7.99, 295 pp Charles Sheffield’s Billion Dollar Boy followed after to find and reactivate the the CIA, and Morgan, was a space-age cover of Captain’s guardians, but the whole situation is a a street operative on Black Wings kicks Courageous, Steven Gould has invented mess, complicated by a rival group who the other side of the off a new series in the a new setting for the coming of age story have arrived with memories intact, even pond who works for urban fantasy genre. of a resourceful boy who encounters a if their powers are somewhat abated by an organization called the Hermetic It has stylish cover very wise teacher with whom he travels. our world’s dampening effect on magic. Division. He gets called up to deal art to catch they eye, Kipling poured all his love for India into That’s not too much of a problem if you with things almost as nasty as himself. with enough subtlety his original book, and his own frustrated also have brute strength and cunning on The Alex storyline is supernatural with to hold attention. desire to be a player in The Great Game your side, and can coerce cooperation, horrific components, the Morgan parts The writing is lucid, was sublimated into Kim’s adventures as disgraced detective Colby Dretch are the inverse ratio. Very yin-yang. and besides carrying as a junior field agent for the British finds out. Now it’s a race to locate the Sixteen year-old Alex gets conscripted the action narrative, it swirls and eddies Secret Service. missing prince, and there are no rules. after she calls a California TV station into some lovely side-waters. So, what if Kim were to live in a time This first novel straddles Young Adult to complain about their coverage of Madeline Black makes a rather of space colonies? - Chris Paige and SF genres like a Colossus, which is a high school massacre - before it incongruous Agent of Death, being not all that surprising, given Lazellari’s happens. Her call had been dismissed short and cute, but she has an impressive Man Plus background as a writer (and artist!) for as mere drug-induced looniness by wingspan. She and her fellow agents by Steven Gould Marvel Entertainment, DC Comics, and Patriot-Act funded listeners, but then are responsible for moving souls on Tor Book, 2011, $24.99, 384 pp Jim Henson Productions. A blend urban reality catches up with her foresight. to the Great Beyond, although some fantasy, romance and realism, this is Alex does not want to become a spirit souls get lost, or refuse the guidance, This republication of a 1976 classic the first volume of a projected series world snoop, but her passive-aggressive and irrevocably become ghosts. Maddy is remarkably timely, concerned as it that should appeal to a wide range of maneuvers prove futile. Her controller gets some guidance of her own from is with the affects of overpopulation, readers. It isn’t often that a single book is determined to use her talents, first a stone gargoyle; unfortunately, she dwindling resources, war, and the reminds me of both Tolkien and Steven to verify torture-induced confessions, often ignores its advice. So a tall, dark, dangers of colonizing another planet King, for the story has epic resonances, then to infiltrate a cult that is sending handsome stranger, with a name that offset by the imperative to survive well. even as the scenes and characterizations shockwaves through the supernatural should have sent “Uh-Oh!” alarms A mystery component ends the book are entirely modern.- Chris Paige ether. Alex’s partner, PD, wishes he ringing in our heroine’s head, moves with a revelation that kicks the whole had the talent she loathes, so tensions, into her duplex. Hey, she needed the story up an octave, like the final chorus Rigor Amortis resentments, and misunderstandings are rent! Next a demon comes terrorizing of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. Edited by Jaym Gates and Erika Holt inevitable. Chicago, and being one of Death’s Limpidly well-written, it is startlingly Edge Science Fiction and Fantasy Morgan is an all-purpose Shiva, Agents proves to be no protection. on the mark in its predictions of politics Publishing, 2011, $9.99, 134 pp impossible to destroy, but dangerous Supernatural magic abounds, and there and environmental breakdown. as hell to be around - the splash zone are plenty of romantic complications This is a man-alone adventure about Roger Torraway, who is torn away from

Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 19 Branwell Hall and all who dwell therein. Continued from Page 19 dark Earth Magic, his wife dies in wept unabashedly at this scene. childbirth. Enraged and embittered, And when European unrest erupts into The author shows a tremendous Richard Whitestone disowns his baby the unholy mess that becomes “The appreciation for the coexistence of his good life as a back-up astronaut to daughter, Suzanne. He becomes a Great War,” Whitestone finds the perfect “old ways” and religious traditions undergo radical alteration and then sent complete recluse and brings a blight grounds to continue his revenge against so characteristic of Old England. She away to Mars to establish a footing so upon the very estate his family has all who sheltered Suzanne. portrays the persistence and validity of that others, unenhanced, can follow. protected for generations. One of the best features of this book is the former, and she slips in a corrected He is at once sacrifice and pioneer, Suzanne is raised by the servants, how Lackey portrays aspects of World translation of a diabolically (I use that crucified in the laboratory and launched learning, not the social airs and graces War One: the horror of it, the ghastly word advisedly) mis-translated, and into near-immortality on the red planet. of a young lady, but practical, homely conditions of the trench warfare, the infamous abused passage of the Old skills - and magic. Robin Goodfellow, stupidity and lies that propagated it, Testament. This was very well done, It takes a slight mental shift to read Puck himself, straight out of Rudyard the conditions that nurses endured and and may even make up for not including SF written before social networking Kipling’s Puck of Pook’s Hill, is her the responsibilities they shouldered, Rudyard Kipling or Dorothy Sayers in rewrote our templates, but this one is teacher. It is Suzanne who creates and how those who knew better could her Dedication. Misty may not always most rewarding, definitely worth the boundaries to contain the blight cast only mitigate the horrors. Suzanne acknowledge her sources, but she does adjustment. - Chris Paige by her father’s wretchedness, and who doesn’t get to dance in dresses woven of her homework. establishes good will with the local sunlight, moonlight, and starlight; she Editorial comment: there are a couple Unnatural Issue elementals: the fauns, brownies, and dons a nurse’s uniform in Mons behind of continuity errors in this first edition. by Mercedes Lackey other earth-spirits of Old England. the Front. Early in her escape, Suzanne burns a DAW Books, 2011, $25.95, 361 pp In his secret study, Richard turns to Furthermore, Lackey uses the magical bundle; later on, she is using it the writings of necromancers in search language of magic to portray, if not again. And a time anomaly presents one Unnatural Issue is of a way to bring back his wife from always facts, then certainly truths. character in the trenches in December, primarily a retelling the dead, but he is stymied by the need Many of us really do experience the then shifts forward - to November. These of a fairy tale that for a body to serve as a vessel for her kinds of sensitivities her magicians are minor annoyances in an otherwise goes by many names: soul. Then, from his curtained window, employ as they wield magic; this series enjoyable confection. - Chris Paige Cattikin, Many-Furs, he sees 20 year old Suzanne, the very is one of the rare validations of the Donkey-Skin, etc. image of her mother. From that point numinous experiences we rarely have Comic-Con Episode IV: A Fan’s In most versions, a on, all his energies are bent on making words to describe. (I submit this with Hope queen dies, a heart- his wish a reality. some trepidation, having read Lackey’s by Morgan Spurlock and Alba Tull broken king refuses Suzanne discovers her danger in time recent internet posting, reminding her DK, $24.99, 192 pp. to marry anyone to escape. She flees across the moors readers forcibly that she is writing F-I- who is not a match for his dead queen, and finds refuge at Branwell Hall, C-T-I-O-N. I agree with everything she Here are photos and and a princess must flee her father’s where Earth Magic is understood, and had to say.) words from people amorous intentions. I recommend welcomed. This ability to sum up, to epitomize, in San Diego Comic finding Cattikin, for in that variation, Meanwhile, Richard’s meddling with and to transform experiences that Convention 2010. the princess is quite resourceful. First necromancy has caused ripples which society is vigorously relegating to Inside are costumes, she tries to postpone the marriage into alert the White Lodge, and, somewhat under the carpet or behind the curtain celebrities, and cool oblivion by asking for impossible gifts: belatedly, Lord Aldridge sends an is Lackey’s greatest talent. In her stuff. dresses of sunlight, moonlight, and Elemental Master to investigate and various writings, she has shone a By the way, starlight, each of which fits into a walnut intervene. clear light on the self-deceptions of found out this book shell; and a cloak made from 1000 At this point, Lackey performs a bit survivor guilt and co-dependency in never had episodes different furs. When delaying tactics do of literary necromancy of her own, re- abusive relationships; she has invented one to three. Only, Morgan Spurlock not suffice, she removes herself from the animating one of the great characters of characters who became paradigm shifts has done this documentary about a small unhealthy equation and takes a position all times: Lord Peter Whimsey, created for readers who were consequently able peak on this convention. I guess he’s a as kitchen maid in a neighboring by Dorothy L. Sayers. In Unnatural to go from victim status to survivors big fan of Star Wars...This book gives kingdom. There she prepares soup Issue, he is slightly changed into Lord and even heroes in their own life stories; a glimpse of the biggest fan gathering of exquisite deliciousness, attends Peter Almsley - he is, after all, a gift she has incorporated into her stories the in the U.S. (130,000). Awesome. dances attired in her magical dresses, to any story in which he manifests - a grim realities that soldiers and rescue Recommended to fans of San Diego and gives mysterious gifts to the king, Master of the Element water, with a workers undergo, so that their neighbors Comic Con. - Jeffrey Lu hidden in his bowl of soup. The king is flair for infiltration. Almsley appeared can have some comprehension of their intrigued and eventually figures that the previously in The Gates of Sleep in a ordeals; she has parsed the big lies that irrational-seeming discrepancies lead to supporting role; now he is the heroine’s politicians and their flunkeys love to the discovery of his beloved. complement. Alchemically, he has tell, tearing off the genial mask to reveal Robin McKinley previously novelized evolved from side-kick quicksilver to the monstrous greed and cruelty beneath the motif in Deerskin, but that book is hero’s gold. the façade. rough-going, because in her version, the Lord Peter gets himself installed as Lackey is, quite simply, a fantastic worst is not averted, it happens. Branwell Hall’s new gameskeeper in writer. Consider the range, the contrast, Mercedes Lackey resets this gem of order to suss out Suzanne - her magical of the following. In one scene, Suzanne a story in her Elemental Masters series, ability, her history, and whatever she and another girl are systematically bringing back most of her previous might know of an elusive necromancer. using their Earth Elemental magic in main characters in cameo roles, as well Richard Whitestone is not about to the dairy to protect the milk, cream, as introducing new main ones. give up his plans, and now he has no and butter from spoilage. In another, an Instead of being a king, Richard compunctions about conjuring and Earth Mage is being overwhelmed by Whitestone is a hereditary Earth Master, commanding legions of the dead, animated corpses on a battlefield, and landed gentry with a good estate, and a and even nastier things like trolls and the earth elementals of the ravaged land, trusted member of the White Lodge. redcaps. Once he discovers Suzanne’s including a unicorn, come to his rescue, Tragically, while he is in London whereabouts, he declares war on even as they are themselves dying. I tracking a murderer who has employed

Page 20 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 Adult situations. Different. Liked it. An Buffy’s old classmate, Harmony Graphic Novels and Manga: interesting what-if story. Recommended Kendrall, is now a vampire with her by Jeffrey Lu to dark time traveling graphic novel own TV reality show. The popularity readers. of the show makes vampires the hottest GRAPHIC NOVELS: Buffy is a superheroine. Also, Twilght thing on the market. But there is a catch, is revealed. Enough said. 8) Thor by J. Michael Straczynski and the Slayers will be the new enemy. And 1) Buffy The Vampire Slayer The This is volume seven. Need to read Marko Djurdjevic, Marvel, $14.99. oh yes, Buffy’s sister, Dawn, changes Long Way Home by Joss Whedon and the first six to know what is generally again. Georges Jeanty, Dark Horse, $15.99 going on. Recommended for mature Dr. Doom and This is volume five. Helps to read audiences. Adult situations. Violence. Loki are plotting to the last four to know what’s going on. Buffy and her friends, Not surprised at who Twilight is. Good take out Thor. Will Recommended for mature audience. Willow and Xander, story. Recommended to Buffy The friends of Thor be Violence. Liked it. Definitely different in are back. She will Vampire Slayer graphic novel readers. able to counter this vampire TV reality show. Entertaining. have an army of threat before Thor is Recommended to Buffy The Vampire slayers. They will not 5) Conan The Hand of Nergal by seriously damaged? Slayer fans. only have to battle Robert E. Howard, Timothy Truman, This is volume three supernatural forces Tomas Giorello, Dark Horse, $17.95. and final with J. 12) Daytripper by Fabio Moon and but also the military Michael Straczynski. Need to read the Gabriel Ba, Vertigo, $19.99. with someone known Here is a Robert E. other two to know what is happening. as “Twilight.” Howard’s piece that Good story. Recommended to Marvel Here is Bras de Oliva Domingo. In this This is volume one. This starts as was not complete. Thor graphic novel fans. book is different chapters of his life. “season eight.” Violence. Amusing. With Mr. Truman’s Each chapter will have some meaning Different from what I generally read. help, the story is 9) Buffy The Vampire Slayer Wolves to his life. Each end of the chapter will Need to see the entire TV series to finally told. Conan At The Gate by Goddard, Jeanty, and be his death...Suggested for mature understand what’s going on. Strange the Barbarian will Whedon, Dark Horse, $15.99. readers. Nudity. Adult situations. but enjoyable. Recommended to fans of face many obstacles Potential violence. Different concept of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. to save a friend. Buffy will have to dying at the end of each story. Touching. He will also fight deal with a theft Sad. Overall, cool. Surreal but life’s 2) Buffy The Vampire Slayer No Future something unnatural. from Japanese interesting steps to fulfillment. This is For You by Brian K. Vaughan, Georges This is Volume 6. Reading volume 4 vampires. She will an amazing work. Can’t believe this is Jeanty and Joss Whedon, Dark Horse, and 5 will help making this story clearer. need Xander’s old the first time for the brothers. Highly $15.99 Suggested for mature readers. Graphic friend, Dracula, to recommended to a life-well-lived violence. Cool. Lots of twists and turns. counter these foes. graphic novel readers. More stories of Buffy the Vampire Great story. Recommended to Conan This is volume three. Slayer. In one story arc, Amy is give a the Barbarian fans. Need to read the first MANGA BOOKS: secret mission by Giles. Her job is to two to know what is generally going take out another slayer in England. 6) Sandman Mystery Theatre The on. Recommended for mature audience. 1) Cirque Du Freak Allies Of The This is volume two. Continuing as Hourman and The Python by Matt Adult situations. Violence. Different. Night by Darren Shan, art by Takahiro “season eight.” Violence. Interesting. Wagner, Steven T. Seagle, Guy Davis Amused in seeing Buffy’s sister, Dawn, Arai, Yen Press, $11.99, 188 pp. Liked it. Recommended to fans of Buffy and Warren Pleece, Vertigo, $19.99, fighting a metal monster of herself. the Vampire Slayer. 199 pp. Recommended to Buffy The Vampire Darren Shan will Slayer fans. face something more 3 ) Buffy The Vampire Slayer Retreat Wesley Dodds a.k.a. The Sandman and trouble as he goes by Espenson, Jeanty, and Whedon. his love, Dian Belmont, are investigating 10) Buffy The Vampire Slayer Time back to school. He two cases. One of them will be a future of Your Life by Whedon, Moline, and will also meet an Buffy and her friend and ally. Another will be a return Loeb, Dark Horse, $15.99. old friend and an friends are trying to of an enemy. Hints of World War Two old ally. Yet, the lose their magical loomed in the background. Suggested In this book, Buffy vampaneze are still powers. Why? So, for mature readers. Cursing. Graphic time travels to met murdering innocents they can disappear violence. Cruelty. Surprises in the another Slayer, Fray. in a city Darren once called home. Will from their magical usual pulp hero story. Recommended Also, Dawn changes Darren and his allies able to counter enemy, Twlight and to Sandman pulp hero graphic novel and Willow in the them in time? his allies. But Buffy readers. future is pure evil. This is volume eight. Read first seven and her friends will This is volume four. to understand what is going on. There is be found out and 7) Pax Romana by Jonathan Hickman, Helps to read the last a teen level warning. they will have to fight against a military Image, $14.99. three to know what’s Surprises. Dark. Recommended to invansion... going on. Recommended for mature dark supernatural readers. This is volume six. Need to read the The Vatican found audience. Violence. Also, Winner of first five to know what is generally going that time traveling the 2007 Eisner Award for Best New 2) Cat Eyed Boy by Kazuo Omezu, Viz, on. Recommended for mature audience. is possible. With Series. Good story. Recommended to $24.99, 532 pp. Adult situations. Violence. Interesting. this information, Buffy The Vampire Slayer fans. Recommended to Buffy The Vampire they decided a team Cat Eyed Boy is somewhat the horror Slayer graphic novel readers. should go in the time 11) Buffy The Vampire Slayer Predators narrator but also trys to help out in most of Constantine and and Prey by Whedon, Espenson, of the stories. In one, he will attempt 4) Buffy The Vampire Slayer Twilight change history... DeKnight, Greenberg, Krueger, Petrie, to prevent tsunami monsters from by Meltzer, Jeanty, and Whedon. Suggested for and Jeanty, Dark Horse, $15.99. destorying a village. He suceed but at mature readers. Graphic violence. what cost? This is volume one. This is

Volume 21 Issue 5 ConNotations 21 Continued from Page 21 On Science Fiction: Rebuttal to M L Fringe Convention Listings: TusCon 38 (November 11-13) at the Hotel rated T+. In other words, recommended By Mike Griffin fiction” is like an oxymoron. It isn’t Tucson City Center, 475 North Granada, for older teens. Graphic. Dark. Creepy totally earthbound, but is limited to Tucson AZ 85701. Guest of Honor: Patricia but well done. Recommended to horror M L Fringe certainly has lots of only what we now know is possible: Briggs, Cost $40 thru 6/30, $45 thru 11/1 manga fans. religious fanaticism for one who no FTL, no space aliens, no time travel, and $50 thereafter and at the door. Paypal claims so much nihilism. Let’s see, only space travel within our solar available, Room rates $69 studio, $79 3) Cat Eyed Boy by Kazuo Omezu, Viz, based on both articles in the last paper system generally. There’s a website for suite, $89 Jacuzzi suite. Hotel phone 520- $24.99, 487 pp. issue of Connotations, MLF doesn’t it at mundane-sf.blogspot.com if you 622-3000. Website: http://home.earthlink like: any traditional religion, movies, want to learn more. Mundane sci-fi has net/~basfa/ -- eMail: [email protected] Cat Eyed Boy is again trying to help mainstream literature, literary critics, or perhaps always been written a little bit, LepreCon 38 (April 6-8, 2012) Artist humans from the coming horror. He will any supernatural or fantasy genre. That but how limited in imagination! Is this Guest of Honor; Franchesco! Author Guest do his best but not all will be a success. leaves ... science fiction? Well, actually what Fringe wants? of Honor, Joe Haldeman; Local Artist GoH, This is volume two. Need to read volume no it doesn’t. The big point MLF seems And as long as nobody gets hurt Mark Greenwalt; Gaming GoH, Todd one to understand what is going on. to have missed is that there’s a good anymore, what’s wrong with religious VanHooser; Music Artists GoH, Jeff & This is rated T+. This is recommended reason a spaceship sits on its own Genre tolerance? Let me give a quote to counter Maya Bohnhoff. Website: www.leprecon. for older teens. Graphic. Refreshing. Peaks of the Metaphor Mountains. all of his, from Al Franken: “The point org/lep38 Like the story, /The Meatball Monster/. Most of science fiction literature is is that it doesn’t really matter what eMail: [email protected] Highly recommended to horror manga impossible fantasy just as unrealistic religion you are. God has 1000 faces CopperCon 32 (Aug. 31 - Sept. 3, 2012) fans. as anything “supernatural.” If you look and you only need to have one of them Author Guest of Honor; Ari Marmell, Local on tvtropes.org for the “Mohs Scale Of smiling upon you ... I don’t care what Author Guest James A. Owen. Cost: $40 4) Hellsing Vol. 8, Kohta Hirano, Dark Science Fiction Hardness” you can get kind of nonsense you believe, I can tell thru August 15, 2012 - More at the door. No Horse and DMP, $13.95, 202 pp. some idea of how wrong most science you that religion will be a crutch which checks or credit cards will be accepted at fiction is, but it gets worse than that. you can lean upon in times of adversity.” con. Website: www.coppercon.org eMail: [email protected] A year and a half Even the most “hard” science fiction is I’d call a helpful crutch a human thing, later, this volume making wishful leaps beyond what we and good. And no, MLF, I’m not going CLASSIFIEDS: finally comes out. know, for example with assumptions to limit my reading to mundane science The story is about a of faster than light (FTL) space drives fiction or anything else spun by fanatics Clash of Steel Miniatures battle among Vatican - relativity rules reality, dude. So a who know what’s best for me. Chill www.clashofsteel.biz fighters, vampire logical extrapolation of MLF’s criteria out, dude. Read something fun, like Hand-cast pewter 25mm and 54mm miniatures. Custom mold-making Nazis, and a British would make the one true religion only speculative fiction maybe? services, rules, and games. Hellsing who has that newest of identified sub-genres Helpful sites: a secret weapon- in science fiction: mundane science http://mundane-sf.blogspot.com/ Classified Ads for Great Price Dracula. But in this issue, Dracula is fiction! http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/ Five lines + one headline going againt a Vatican team of experts, This is so new a term that I should pmwiki.php/Main/ ONLY $5.00 per issue for two months an Archbishop and monster fighter, explain it. In fandom, mundanes are MohsScaleOfScienceFictionHardness in Printed version of ConNotations NewsZine and in the new website Anderson. people who aren’t fans - earthbound, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mundane_ in October. Email us your copy: For Readers 13+- Violence, Mild get it? Infidels? So “mundane science science_fiction [email protected] language. Need to read first seven to know what’s going on. Worth the wait. Dark. Cool battles. Recommended to horror action graphic novel fans.

5) Hellsing Vol. 9, Kohta Hirano, Dark Horse and DMP, $13.95, 226 pp.

In this book, the battle between Anderson and Dracula finally ends. Another, Hellsing’s butler, Walter, betrays his master. Something foul is going on in England... For Readers 13+- Violence, Mild language. Need to read first seven to know what’s going on. Dark. Did not expect this encounter with vampires all over the place. Recommended to horror action graphic novel fans.

Page 22 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5 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 5 ConNotations 23 Page 24 ConNotations Volume 21 Issue 5