VOLUME 3 NUMBER 2 APRIL, 19911 THE WRIGHT STUFF THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE U.S.S. KITTY HAWK NCC 1659

THRILLED WITH THE FIRST SUCCESSFUL FLIGHT OF THEIR

NEW PLANE) WILBUR CONTEMPLATES HIS NEXT PROJECT. THE WRIGHT STUFF

VOLUME 3 CONTENTS NUMBER 2

A VIEW FROM THE CATBIRD SEAT 1 FIRST OFFICER'S LOG 1 CHIEF ENGINEER'S LOG 2 EASTER 2 THE ADVENTURES OF MYSTERY AND SPOT - EPISODE SEVEN 3 RECREATION LOG 4 NASA STUFF 4 A MOC VIRGIN NO MORE 5 A NIGHTMARE TREK 6 THE PENDRAGON CYCLE (Review) 6 THE NASA TRIVIA 6 DOIN' THE CON THING AGAIN 7 TREK FILM AND VIDEO 7 WRIGHT MERCHANDISE AND COLLECTOR'S REPORT 8 HELLO 8 ERIN GOING, GOING 8 STARFLEET PRESS RELATIONS 9 STUFF PROS AND CONS 9 VOLUME 3 NO. 2 M-O-C- 7: ONE CON'S LIFE 10 TO BOLDLY GO WHERE 10 is a publication of the U.S.S. Kitty AWAY TEAM SECURITY REPORT 10 Hawk, the Raleigh, N.C. chapter of THE SHUTTLE SHUFFLE 11 STARFLEET, an international STAR STAR TREK ITEMS FOR SALE 11 TREK fan organization. This publication NASA LEMON-AID: THE SAGA OF ENDEAVOUR 11 is provided free of charge, to all chapter DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS (In alphabetical order by department) 12 members in good standing. NAME THE UNIFORM INSIGNIA 12 Subscriptions for non-members are $8.00 per year (six issues). Please address all correspondence to CATBIRD Publications, 5017 Glen Forest Dr., CREDITS Raleigh, N.C. 27612. This publication is a non-profit enterprise and is not PUBLISHER I. R. FISHER meant to infringe upon any copyright or EDITOR JANE FISHER trademark held by Paramount Pictures, FRONT COVER PAT HEINSKE Gulf & Western, or any other holder of ASSISTANTS AND CONTRIBUTERS LYNETTE CROWLEY STARTREK copyrights or trademarks. J.R. FISHER Unless otherwise noted, ENTIRE JEFF HABRYCH CONTENTS ARE COPYRIGHT 1992 PAT HEINSKE CATBIRD Publications/THE WRIGHT DEBORAH HERNDON STUFF. Nothing in whole or in part JOHN MILLER may be used without the written LARRY PISCHKE permission of the publisher. THE LIZ READ WRIGHT STUFF assumes all material ELAINE ROYAL submitted for publication is gratis. The JOHN TROAN publisher and editors reserve the right to TERESA TUEL edit all submissions. ROBERT YATES

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A VIEW FROM THE CATBIRD S SEAT By J. It. Fisher

It seems that things have settled down We had two excursions into nature this Party and they have agreed to a special from the excitement of winter turning to month. Our new recreation officer led a price and arrangement for us. They will spring. Members of our crew attended small band of courageous crew out into allow us to attend all day Saturday and M.O. C. and the Region I STARFLEET the wild on the backs of some rather Sunday, no meals, for ten dollars. They conference and reported that it was interesting horses. Ask the participants have breakfast at 8 AM both days, with interesting. We had the best turn out yet how that went! The second venture was athletics starting at 10:30 on Saturday for our highway cleanup which was very far more sedate with a cookout, (only and the auction at 9 AM on Sunday. fortunate as we had the most trash on two of us did any nature trekking) at the This will allow us to participate in their our stretch since we started cleaning it. park. While food played the major part activities and still attend the telethon It is time to renew our contract with the in the cool afternoon's activities, there Saturday night. Just mark your state if we choose to continue cleaning were a few horseshoes thrown (don't ask application as $10.00 and they will the highway. about the horses they were attached to), understand you are a day person. Volleyball practice did not occur on the card games, frisbee wars, and a lively Our future looks bright so let us make fourth as inclement weather slowed round of charades. it so. Pat found a quote from one of the everyone down, so some of the crew So onto the future. We will be original men with the Wright Stuff '...It attended an S.C.A. event in the deciding a number of things during May. is not really necessary to look too far afternoon prior to the meeting. The renewal of the highway cleanup; into the future; we see enough already to Following the meeting, many of the crew participation in the Duke Telethon; the be certain it will be magnificent. " adjourned to local fast food vendors and trip to Kitty Hawk; new T.V. shows; A lot of you contributed to this edition returned to the Fisher abode with their other conventions; and of course, the of the newsletter. I hope everyone will purchases to consume them while fate of our own convention, all await enjoy reading it. watching the new episode of Next your decisions. O.T.S. classes will take Generation. It seems that the Trek place soon. The Victory Day hopefully ESSE QUAM VIDERI version of "Win, Lose, or Draw" has will get launched this month. become the rage on the Kitty Hawk. Have talked with the people at Landing

FIRST OFFICER S LOG By Teresa Tutel

The crew has been very busy these last just returned from that area with my transporter room mock-up and captain's few weeks with ship activities, faithful Indian scout (Mom), it is well chair for the camera buff in the group. conventions, and community projects. I worth the trip, especially if swim suits The transporter room makes a great back would like to thank Suzanne Miller, J.R. are packed. We also made a trip to drop for a group picture. Fisher, Dave Forvendel, and Kathy D.C. for the Star Trek Exhibit. You Until next time, hope to see everyone Forvendel for their support of the Duke must have a ticket (free of charge at the and have a safe holiday. Phone-a-thon. As announced earlier, museum or a ticket can be purchased at the Duke Telethon is the same weekend Ticket-Trop for $2.50) in order to get as Landing Party. If you are interested into the Star Trek Exhibit. You do not UPCOMING EVENTS in helping with the telethon, please let need a ticket to see the rest of the Air FOR JUNE J.R. or myself know. In the past, we and Space Museum. Sunday, June 14 - Durham have worked the graveyard shift, filling The Star Trek Exhibit was alright, but Bulls game, 1:00 P.M. in wherever we are needed. We usually not as great as I had expected from all Saturday, June 27 - invade a local breakfast-eatery and the newspaper reports. There are Silver Lake Water Park, continue the fun. several cases with toys and props from 11:00 A.M. - meet at Pat Heinske is planning a trip to the the show. Numerous costumes were also Debbie's. outer banks and Kitty Hawk. Having included in the exhibit. There is a

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 1 APRIL, 1992

CHIEF ENGINEER S LOG By Pat Hems. ke

"Chief Engineer's Personal Log - tower is three-sided and sits on a base As I walk back down the hill to the Stardate 9203.15 - 9:34 a.m. local shaped as a five-pointed star. When I launch rail, I stop to pick out of the planetary time. I am standing on the reach the base, I find that two of the tread of my boots pieces of the small very launch rail laid into the sand at the sides of the tower are embellished with cacti that grow around the sides of what foot of Kill Devil Hill in North Carolina wings of a rather timely, art-deco look, is actually a gigantic sand dune, and I by Orville and Wilbur Wright in and the third bears the names of the two ponder over why this 160,000 pound December of the year 1903, old dating men honored here. I am also able to granite monolith stands here. The reason system. There is a light wind blowing read, at this distance, the statement I am enlightened with is this: This down the length of the rail as there carved into the lower portion of the memorial to the Wright brothers serves usually is in this location. The almost tower: to inspire people who are willing to constant breeze is one of the reasons the 'IN COMMEMORATION OF THE believe, and by believing, find that they Wright brothers chose this spot to test CONQUEST OF THE AIR BY THE can accomplish the impossible. their newly-built flying machine. BROTHERS WILBUR AND A quote from Wilbur Wright tells us As I look down the rail, I see, 230 feet ORVILLE WRIGHT CONCEIVED just how much of a visionary this man distant, the landing point of the first BY GENIUS ACHIEVED BY truly was. It makes a statement not just successful flight. The plane was piloted DAUNTLESS RESOLUTION AND for him and his era, but even now shows by Orville, who won the distinction by UNCONQUERABLE FAITH'. incredible insight and makes me proud virtue of winning a coin toss. 55 feet From the top of this 'Kill Devil Hill' that we on the U.S.S. Kitty Hawk can be beyond this is landing point #2; 45 feet (so named because of the grounding of a linked to a man such as him: further is #3, and 652 feet beyond that is ship carrying Kill Devil brand rum), I It is not really necessary to look too landing point #4. Out of fairness, the can see for miles in every direction. To far into the future; we see enough brothers took turns at the controls, and the right and left is the sea; to the rear is already to be certain it will be although Orville was first, it was Wilbur the town of Kill Devil Hills, and to the magnificent. Only let us hurry and open who proved to be the better pilot (at least front, the launch site. the roads." for that day). Directly to my right stands the hangar and quarters that the Wrights built to protect both their project and their EASTER persons from the gusting sometimes damaging winds here at Kitty Hawk. It By Deborah Herndon was this very wind, the same wind that carried the men aloft to victory, that prevented a fifth flight that day. A gust, perhaps angry that mere men would dare intrude upon its place in the heavens, We are just about to enter into here. And since we are, let us rejoice in turned over the Flyer as it was being Spring...The time of year when flowers it. Let us give a smile to the guy who is carried/dragged back to its place on the spring up and the weather finally turns not quite so happy spring has arrived or rail, damaging it too severely to be warm. And the Easter Bunny arrives a hand to the mother and child who flown again that afternoon. (along with Mr. Cavity). We all wear have struggled to bring and be alive. Over my right shoulder stands the our bonnets and don our best clothes and We are blessed in this land, here we see monument erected to commemorate the go have a wonderful brunch (perhaps a vision and can attain it. Let us see and incredible accomplishments of the two beforehand we attend church). But never forget that this is a good place men. As I turn towards it and begin the whatever we do on that day, we often filled with struggles but nonetheless long walk to the top of the hill, I see that ultimately are celebrating life. It is in a good place. Smile for this is one of it is a sixty-foot tower, similar to those the air, the people we greet; it is in their the days THE LORD has made (no not used to mark courses in air races, the smiles, and the sights we see all remind Lord Roddenberry-People). design of which is credited to Rogers us of the fact. Whether we are and Poor, a new York architectural firm. celebrating our lives or Jesus, we know Theirs was chosen as best in a that the time of year has arrived when it competition with 34 other entrants. The can't be ignored that we are alive and

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 2 APRIL, 1992 THE ADVENTURES OF MYSTERY AND SPOT EPISODE SEVEN: THE EMPATHY CONNECTION By Elaine Royal

Data stood patiently waiting for also, however, quite curious as well. changed to something else Troi could not Counselor Troi to answer the summons "Go ahead, explore if you like. " She identify. Spot seemed to be engrossed in to her door. His fluffy yellow cat, Spot, turned to concentrate on her work, something, as though listening was tucked securely into the crook of his keeping a tiny portion of her mind attentively. Suddenly Troi realized what left arm. The door slid open and attuned to the cat. was happening. The cats were Deanna smiled up at Data. "Come in, The first day and night passed communicating telepathically! For once Data. Are you ready to go so soon?" uneventfully. By the next day, Troi had in her life, Troi sincerely doubted the Data entered the counselor's quarters. become accustomed to the cat's presence accuracy of her empathic sense. If this "The Hood will rendezvous with the on the edge of her consciousness. She were true, she reasoned, wouldn't Enterprise in 10.4 minutes to take me to was in the gym, just finishing her someone have discovered it by now? the cybernetics conference on Telgar IV. morning exercises, when she felt a However, it did seem that Mystery, the I do not wish to keep them waiting. " change in his emotional state. experienced explorer, was explaining "Of course not." Deanna turned her "Is there something wrong?" Beverly something to Spot, the Neophyte. The attention to Spot. "So, little fellow, Crusher asked as she threw a towel over counselor opened her mind to the felines you're to be my roommate for the next her shoulder. as much as possible, but was unable to few days." She reached out to take the "No, not really. I promised Data I'd discern anything more specific than the cat from Data. He purred softly as she stay in tune with his cat while he's gone, emotional content of the animals' caressed his fur. and I'm sensing the animal is agitated." exchange. Of course, even if she could "I must warn you, he has been known She paused for a moment, concentrating. have read their minds, the language to escape from my quarters..." The "No, he's excited. Like he's anticipating would have made no sense to her, as perplexed look on Data's face made something. I'd better check on him, see they were speaking Feline. Actually, Deanna smile. what he's up to. I'll see you later." She Mystery was telling Spot that this room "So I hear. Let me guess. You want grabbed her gym bag and hurried toward was where lots of people gathered and me to try to figure out how he does it." her quarters. The door "whooshed" there were many pleasant places to curl "He managed to evade the trap Geordi open at her touch. up and sleep, or make new friends. and I set for him. It is possible that with "Spot? Are you here?" But she Several crew members were engaged in you empathic talents, you could sense already knew he was not in the room. conversation or games. Troi entered, something that the computer could not." She sensed him, happily moving away feeling conspicuous in her sweaty "I normally try to tune out animal from her. exercise garb, but she tried to look emotions. They are often chaotic and "Alright. You can't have gotten far." nonchalant as she approached the food unfocused, and can be distressing." Deanna dropped her bag on the floor and slot and ordered a glass of orange juice. Deanna noted the look of disappointment hurried out into the corridor. She The cats wandered past the people and on Data's face. "However, I'll see what paused only a second, deciding which leapt up on a pair of comfy chairs with a I can do. I'll view it as a unique way to go. She over took the two view of the stars. challenge." adventuring cats in a minute and "Yikes! What is that?" Spot asked as "Thank you, Counselor. I will return followed them at a distance as they made he stared into the depths of space. for him in three days." With that he their way through the corridors of the "That is what is outside this ship, of gave Spot a farewell pat on the head and Enterprise. At first they seemed to be course. Those are stars." Mystery left her alone with the feline. going no where in particular, then sounded bored, as if she were getting Deanna set out a bowl of food and suddenly Troi felt a distinct sense of tired of explaining everything to her water for the cat, and set him down near purpose in Mystery's mind, as though friend. She began bathing herself. it. she suddenly decided where they were "But it's so BIG!" Spot couldn't take "Alright, Spot. Make yourself at going. A few moments later they halted his eyes off of the spectacular view. He home. I have work to do. " She settled in front of a door. Troi watched as had been able to see outside from Data's in at her computer terminal to review Mystery stood motionless before the door quarters, but somehow the extra large some patient files. She tentatively to a recreation lounge. In a moment, it view port in the lounge made him feel opened her mind to the cat's emotions. opened. She registered delighted much closer to space than he had in the He was a little tense, probably due to surprise from Spot and then smug safe confines of his quarters. He sat, the unfamiliar surroundings. He was satisfaction from Mystery, which quickly alert and full of wonder.

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 3 APRIL, 1992 "Relax, you're making me nervous," opened the door to my quarters. I'm corner from me. (Directions given at Mystery commanded, although she was sorry I can't be more specific." June meeting). Look in newsletter for actually not nervous at all. Her eyes Data accepted her explanation with upcoming events in July? August? by Pat closed as she continued grooming resignation. "Thank you for trying. Heinske. herself. Perhaps your information will eventually After a few minutes, Spot was able to prove useful." tear his attention away from the stars. "Perhaps," Deanna agreed. For a He began to examine his immediate moment she debated telling Data the rest NASA STUFF surroundings. The lounge was a little of what she suspected, but decided By John P. Miller like the first place he and Mystery had instead to keep it to herself. Who would visited, 10-Forward, only smaller. Also, believe it, anyway? there was no hostess here, only a food slot in the wall. There were a number Hi folks. For those of you who don't of games available, as well as RECREATION know me, allow me to introduce myself. comfortable chairs for relaxing and I am the All-Being, Master of Time, reading, and computer terminals for LOG Space and Dimension. Except on access to the ship's library. By. Deborah Herndon Tuesday, when I work as a lumberjack. "Oh no, oh no!" Spot jumped down Actually, I was on the Kitty Hawk a from his chair and ran for the door. while back, but had to drop out of the "What?" Mystery was annoyed. Acting recreational officer Deborah J. scene for a while. Well, your repass is "That one there. She will capture me Herndon reporting. The crew has had a over. I'M BACK! (Oooh, n0000000!) and take me away!" variety both in scope and success in their As for that intro stuff: I am currently "What?" missions. I am happy to report that each studying Mechanical Engineering at "That's who is feeding me while my one has carried out their duty in this NCSU and am a Co-op with NASA at android is away!" department with the sense of dementia Kennedy Space Center. As I write this, "Oh!" Mystery leapt down from her that this section is well known for and my first work term is just about over (3 chair and hurried to the door, where very proud of. The roster of events and weeks to go) and I am looking forward Spot was already waiting anxiously. activities are as follows: (certain items to getting back to Raleigh and getting Deanna had sensed the moment Spot where necessary got a follow up report involved with ship activities this summer. noticed her, and the moment Mystery to be found elsewhere in this paper) A) There's not much else to tell. Between seemed to grasp the situation as well. Comedy Night-- Officer Herndon was working for NASA and trying to keep a She was ready to follow them again, but not in attendance due to shuttle repairs GPA greater than .02, I don't do much this time at a further distance. She did beyond her control. B) A visit to the else. Except for Star Trek, that is. not want them to know she was right Planetarium-- 3 crew members attempted Well, while I am in Florida, I am behind them. She pretended not to to complete this mission but time going to try to keep the Kitty Hawk crew notice when they left the lounge, but as coordinated mistakes caused it to be updated on what is going on at NASA. soon as they were gone, she headed for aborted. C) A St. Patrick's Day Party I'll try not to just rehash stuff you the door. Somehow she knew they'd be was highly successful with many persons probably heard on CNN. Instead, I hope heading back to her quarters. She was in attendance. The Captain, I believe, to impart a little bit of what it's like to close enough to see Mystery pause by was giving out Shore Leave willy-nilly. work with the space program. An the door, flick her tail, and wait. The More on this later. The crew also got insider's point of view, if you will. Of counselor gasped softly as the door slid together for a good cause and you can course, you realize that means that all open and Spot darted inside. The door read about that in the report "HELLO". my rambling will no doubt be colored closed again and Mystery proceeded on I am hoping more crew members show with my own prejudice and arrogance. her way. up for the upcoming events. For those By the way, if anyone is interested in Two days later, Data returned. of you who need a reminder of events, getting an up to date list of shuttle Deanna gave him a rueful grin as she April is over with by the time you get missions and expendable launch vehicle handed him his pet. this and for May the ship only has (ELV) missions, just call (407) 867- "Were you able to learn how he gets Landing Party planned out. Then on INFO. There is no charge for this call, out?" Data asked. June 14 (which is Flag Day) the crew save the regular long distance charges. "I learned a great deal, but as to that, will meet at 1:00 for a Durham Bulls You will get a recorded message that is all I can tell you is, whatever Mystery game at the ballpark. Everyone bring updated every few weeks. The does to open doors, it is entirely mental, one thing and we will coordinate a pot recording will not, however, list and I doubt there is a defense against it. luck lunch. Then on June 27th we'll get missions that are less than about 2 weeks I definitely sensed something, very together at my house at 11:00 a.m. and away. strong and very brief, when Mystery head over to the water park around the

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 4 APRIL, 1992 A MOC VIRGIN NO MORE "A MOC 7 PERSPECTIVE" By Jeff Habrych

I am writing down what I can the Home Slave Shopping Network. an Enterprise bridge control panel, some remember from my first trip to Magnum Be sure to congratulate Larry and ST: VI door stickers and some misc Opus Con 7 (MOC) before I lose any Elaine on their wedding (MOCK of scripts, shooting schedules and the like. more brain cells. As my first big course). It was a lovely affair performed These items were auctioned off for the convention, I think I made the right by a minister in front of the whole STARFLEET scholarships and this time choice by choosing MOC because it was convention, with flowers, beautiful music I was able to bid on a couple of items not just a Star Trek convention, but a and a wonderful reception afterwards, at and win. collection of the craziest and most insane which they served a delightful white Bjo was promoting a new cable channel people I have ever encountered. I zinfendal, NOT!!! It was in a small side called Space, Fantasy, Adventure LOVED IT, besides how could I pass up room with a couple of guests, a plastic Network (SFAN) and she is enlisting our FREE beer. bouquet, a couple of bums singing "DA, help for a letter writing campaign (see I mean how many cons do you get a DA, DA DAAAAAA, DA DA, DA, me for details). chance to play Roulette with Robert DAAAAA", no reception (what Saturday was the slave auction, Asprin, discuss "Flesh Gordon" with Bjo cheapskates) and a warm beer. But Costume and FMS contests. I missed Trimble, and actually be able to bid on more important was who they got to these because I was having dinner with items at the STARFLEET auction and perform the ceremony. It could be Jesse Bjo, but in the highlights I saw that the win. Helms (although you wouldn't be far Alien Queen costume won Best of Show. MOC was also the STARFLEET off)? I think not. Could it be Jesse Again afterwards there was dancing till Region I conference, so we got to mingle Jackson? I think not. Could it be Dan dawn. with some of the other ships of the fleet Quayle? I think not. Could it be This year the con suite was stocked and find out about some of the (dramatic pause) SATAN (imagine with free beer and pop donated by a interesting things they are doing or dramatic, ominous music and back and local distributor, so you never had to go planning in the near future. forth camera zooming, ie. the church thirsty and the con suite always had Thursday was a slow day, there were lady, for this one)? Yes the MAN something going on. still many mundanes roaming around the himself, come up from the darkest I can't forget to mention that I met hotel and things really couldn't start until depths of the Netherworld to perform an Jesus at MOC. He was sitting on a they left. But Thursday night, things unholy matrimony. Of course the Mock toilet, passing out beer and blessing really started to sizzle. With the Con marriage was all in good fun, but ask everyone, though I didn't let him kiss Suite and Casino open, people started to Larry to show you the Cewtificate of me. I'll only go so far for a free beer. filter in dressed in costumes. And some Mawwaige. I may be cheap, but I ain't easy. of the costumes the waitresses had on... Friday night saw the Annual Bimbo Sunday was wind down day, get that well let's just say I had to stand in a and Mr. Macho contests and everybody last item at the dealers' room, say good- bucket of ice water. Robert Asprin had a good time. The contestants had to bye to new friends, make sure you get showed up at my roulette table and we perform a talent and answer such phone numbers and addresses, and get shot the breeze while playing, well I questions as, "How many licks does it ready for that long drive home. But should say "while I was losing". take to get to the center of a Tootsie before that was the STARFLEET raffle While taking a break from losing, I Pop". The winning talent was, well let's and I won a choice of Jimmy Doohan noticed some people fencing in the upper just say it involved a garden hose and a autographed pictures. atrium. Larry, Elaine, and I went over golf ball (let your imagination run wild I'll be catching up on sleep for at least to check it out and Larry and I got to do here). Afterwards was the Dance till a month. All in all, I think that MOC 7 a little fencing. Dawn party in the hotel atrium. was a success and I'm already trying to Friday, the dealers' room opened and The highlight of the convention was the think of a costume for MOC 8. it was, A BUYING FRENZY, (trust me chance to meet and talk with Bjo Anybody got any suggestions? it's a MOC thing) with dealers displaying Trimble. Bjo was wonderfully honest their wares, ranging from Star Trek about the goings on behind the scenes at memorabilia to drinking horns to Paramount and is a good source of medieval costumes to miniature figures information. Bjo brought several items to some very nasty looking swords. with her from the Paramount garbage Later that afternoon was the premier of bin, some film clips of ST:II and ST:IV,

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 5 APRIL, 1992 Merlin a Christian, chosen and ordained by God himself, to bring about His will. A NIGHTMARE TREK This twist makes the second book the OR most intriguing and the most interesting (considering most don't hold this view). HOW I SAVED TWO LIVES AT THE For action and intrigue though, Arthur is SMITHSONIAN the book that delivers these. And Taliesin brings all the history and who is By Liz Read answers to the fore. All in all, this trilogy is a wonderful story of the life and times of an era that may or may not An away team, consisting of myself With heavy hearts, we abandoned the have been, but one which we all wish and three family members, left NAS Museum for the Natural History will come again. Richmond, VA for the National Air and Museum, where we spent the day. We Space Museum (NAS) in ANOTHER saw moon rocks, but it just wasn't the attempt to see the Star Trek exhibit. The same. CMO out! drive was wonderful. The day was NASA TRIVIA sunny. The Metro was on time. We walked into the NAS and turned left By John P. Miller heading for gallery 211 - Star Trek! THE Then we saw it: PENDRAGON CYCLE What was the name of the first Space A SPECIAL PASS IS Shuttle built? NEEDED FOR THE Reviewed By Well, we all know that Enterprise was STAR TREK Deborah Herndon the prototype used for the approach and EXHIBIT! landing tests; however, this vehicle never ALL PASSES FOR had the potential to be outfitted for space TODAY HAVE BEEN flight. Columbia was the first shuttle to GIVEN OUT. The Pendragon Cycle is a trilogy by actually go into space, but it was NOT Steven Lawhead. The story depicts the first one built. The tail numbers of Taliesin, Merlin, and Arthur. Lawhead the shuttles illustrate this point: brings this story alive by making his OV 099 Structural and stopped, as they say, dead in our characters so utterly believable that one Test Article tracks. And read it again. Then we has a hard time remembering it's all OV 101 Enterprise read it out loud to each other. Not fiction and each rendition is a work that OV 102 Columbia believing the sign could possibly apply to holds to the author's imagination. But OV C0099 Challenger us, we headed toward the information you really do want to believe Lawhead OV 103 Discovery desk at warp nine. The NAS has all the correct information. The OV 104 Atlantis administrators obviously expected us; story begins with the father of Merlin OV 105 Endeavour they had a special desk just for queries (whose ancestry remains forever about ST. And they fiendishly staffed it unknown), Taliesin and Charis, their The Structural Test Article was a with two elderly lady volunteers. They lives before they met, what events complete space frame that was used for thought no one could hurt someone who brought them together, and how they structural stress testing. After the looked like their grandmother. They started the destiny that was to be successful flights of Columbia, it was didn't count on my brother. Camelot. The story gives a depth and decided we needed a second orbiter. Thwarted so close to our goal, and perception to Arthur that is not often Instead of building one from scratch, and possessed of a temper that flashes in a ... found in such literature, and a history since Enterprise could not be made well, in a flash, he was out for blood! and geography of the time and land that space-worthy, it was decided to "change (We've always thought he's part while not completely historical and over" the Structural Test Article (099) Klingon.) Being dedicated to preserving factual, does have elements of both. and make it a space-worthy craft; hence life in all its forms, I threw myself in However, the most surprising and the new tail number 00099, for Change front of him and kept his hands from interesting point of the Trilogy is Over of vehicle 099. Just in case you locking on their throats. (I think they Lawhead's slant on Merlin. Most are wondering, 100 was never used. were probably Romulans in disguise. literature and stories of the famed Should've let him go.) magician is that he was a sorcerer; not That pretty much ended the mission. so in this rendition. Lawhead paints

THE WRIGIIT STUFF PAGE 6 APRIL, 1992

DOIN THE CON THING AGAIN By Pat Hawke

STARDATE 9203.28 - 5:00 a.m. - Anyway, this year, M.O.C. was in the con suite - I hope I see you again packed a few things into my bike bag, designated the STARFLEET Region One next year!), beer, 'FLEET meetings, hopped on my Maimed High-Warp Probe Conference, so quite a few STARFLEET beer, breakfast, beer, lunch, beer, (license It CHF ENG) and warped out activities were scheduled. The brass was supper, beer, parties, beer - well, you for the 5-hour trip to Greenville, S.C. well-represented as well. Right away, I know where it's going. What a for Magnum Opus Con #7. Up until 2 found I was just in time to participate in weekend! days earlier, I had decided not to go, but an Engineering Forum attended by the Then, Sunday night about 5:00, we I figured that if I could do it on a Chief- and other Engineers from all the warped back home, Elaine and Larry in shoestring budget, I had to go for it. ships represented at the con. We his shuttlecraft, and me on my And go for it I did! I (and my bike) exchanged a few ideas and addresses, M.H.W.P., to arrive in Raleigh about arrived (amazingly intact) at the Hyatt and had a really good time. 10:00 p.m. What a trip!! And you can Regency Greenville at 10:00 a.m. and I The Kitty Hawk Contingent later met bet that I'm doing it again next year! immediately found the rest of the Away up with Steve and Suzanne Cox, and also One final note: The local TV station Team, listed in order of appearance: John Miller, who drove up from Kenney ran a repeat of 'The Naked Now' instead Elaine Royal, Larry Pischke, Jeff Space Center in Florida, where he co- of the new episode of ST:TNG. Habrych, and Kristen Schlicht. Elaine ops with N.A.S.A. (I love connections!) Fortunately, we were at Steve and and her ball and chain arrived on One of the Con guests was Bjo Suzanne's house and NOT at the con, so Thursday, and Jeff and Kristen on Trimble, and Steve arranged a dinner out we did not get involved with the riot that Friday. (M.O.C. was expanded this with Bjo for all the STARFLEET ensued - but unfortunately, we were also year from three days to four - YEAH!) personnel. Bjo turned out to be a not involved with contacting the U.S. S. If I remember correctly, the first four wonderful guest, and I hope to see her Rebel orbiting overhead who enacted our words I heard from Larry mouth were: again. Nice job, Steve!! revenge by way of a couple of well- "FREE BEER, ALL WEEKEND." Or After that, it's pretty much a blur of aimed photon torpedoes. So, if there maybe those were just the first words I uniforms, beer, dealers rooms, beer, were any survivors at the TV station who took notice of. Actually, those are the artwork, beer, hot, gorgeous babes may get to read this, may the sand fleas only words I remember - from the whole (especially that slim, good-looking of a thousand Hortas infest your armpits. weekend. HMMMMM... blonde who was sitting across from me

TREK FILM AND VIDEO By John Troan

I finally logged back onto EOS after a contacted about directing. two-month lapse. After weeding through 414 FIRST DUTY -Most of what you hear about the backlog, I managed to locate a 4/11 NEW GROUND (R) Star Trek: Deep space Nine is schedule for the rest of the fifth season. 4118 HERO WORSHIP (R) only rumor. Anyone connected Do note that the episode titles near the 4/25 COST OF LIVING with the series apparently signed bottom aren't final, but the dates 5/2 THE PERFECT MATE a nondisclosure contract. The probably are. 519 IMAGINARY FRIEND only facts are that Paramount is Other information I discovered: 5/16 VIOLATIONS doing it and that it will start -Paramount has decided ST6 5/23 THE MASTERPIECE January 1993. made enough to justify making SOCIETY (R) -Next Gen will continue through Star Trek VII. The article 5/30 I, BORG the end of a sixth or seventh mentioned preproduction will 6/6 THE NEXT PHASE season, depending on who you start later this year and shooting 6/13 INNER LIGHT listen to. would probably start next 6/20 CONUNDRUM (R) spring. Leonard Nimoy was 6/27 TIME'S ARROW

TIIE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 7 APRIL, 1492 MERCHANDISE AND COLLECTOR'S REPORT By Larry Pisehke

These are just a few little odds and these before) tell me that the entire boom license to Star Trek kits) has no plans to ends that I have picked up from sources separates to eject the parachute. The do this ship any time soon. There is, through the Hobby Masters and at MOC retail price for each of these is $29.99. however, a resin kit, which I first saw at 7 dealers. -Dealers at the conventions are MOC. It's fairly large (about 18") and -Estes has rereleased their old USS apparently still looking for the Hallmark heavy, which is normal for resin. The Enterprise and Klingon battlecruiser kits Enterprise ornaments; we were offered parts consist of the primary and (both original series). These come in quite a bit for them at MOC. One of the secondary hulls, the warp engine pylons nice cardboard boxes embossed with the dealers there told us that Hallmark will as one piece, and the two warp engines. 25th anniversary logo on them, instead be reissuing the ornament this year, This kit is pricey, ranging at the of the old plastic bag that Estes usually minus the 25th anniversary markings on convention from $100 to $175. packages their rockets in; the original the box; the ornament will be the same. -Finally, Hobby Masters may be releases came in these bags. They are She also suggested going to Hallmark carrying resin kits such as prop still flying kits, although its hard to see now and reserving one, as they run out duplicates and the above ship, with any how. The Enterprise has the engine quickly (right, J.R.?). luck. Thanks to the work of Jeff mounted in the saucer section, but I can't -Those of you interested in a USS Habrych, contact has been made with see where the parachute goes. On the Excelsior model kit will have to fork one of these companies, and they seem Klingon ship, the engine mounts in the over the big bucks. Sources say that amenable to dealing directly with me. back, and my sources (people who had AMT (the model company with the I'll keep you posted on progress.

HELLO ERIN GOING, By. Deborah Herndon GOING By Deborah Herndon

It was my second year of answering the heard the aliens say they were tearing up telephones for the PBS telethon. This their trade agreement (this is unverified On March 21 at around 8:00, 20 year was just as much fun as last year, if at this time). All in all, a very pleasant weirdos (I mean crew members) invaded not more so. There was around 15 and fun time had by all. (entered) my home. The occasion was a people on the crew and all excluding our St. Patrick's party. There was lots of fearless Admiral wore their ANSWERS TO TRIVIA TEST by food devoured and games played. The communicator. We debated whether to Deborah Herndon (2/92 newsletter) crew played Trivial Pursuit OR beam out without him or not but 1. Golden Gate Park; 2. Iman; 3. I've Trektionary actually. Some of the considering he was holding the been dead before; 4. Trusted Kirk; 5. drawings should have been allowed to coordinates, we decided to let him join T 'Khat; 6. Grayson; 7. Sam/Peter; 8. count as art because they certainly in. Amazingly enough, there were 2 Flanagan; 9. Joanna. weren't clues. The consolation was that extra people that they didn't have jobs there was no time limit so you could for, so we swapped when necessity keep on drawing and come at it from a called. After we gruelingly answered totally different angle. All in all, the (Ha-Ha) the phones for 3 hours, we event proved entertaining and was well headed on over to the O.K. ? SO-SO? attended. Hopefully all future events PASSABLE? Golden Corral and there will be like this. we proceeded to act like the sophisticated group of intellectuals we are NOT! After about 2 1/2 hours and many jokes later we left the sight and the Aliens (I mean employees) were much delighted. One crew member even said that they Lynette Crowley

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 8 APRIL, 1992 STARFLEET PRESS RELATIONS OR "SO YOU WANT YOUR NAME IN PRINT" By Jeff Habrych

During the Region I conference at with a group of others, the sooner he/she would be better suited to answer and MOC, I sat in on an interesting is to give you a fair shake in their politely thank them for taking interest in presentation called "Creating a stories. you. This makes you seem like a Successful Public Relations Image" given A reporter must sell the story - reasonable person. by the Fleet Admiral's PR advisor. I Generally there are two good reasons to I think that if you will follow these will pass on the handout to the Captain, make space available for a feature story: rules along with a little common sense but I thought there were a few items I. Reports of the strange or when dealing with "mundane" (non sci- which are good FYI for everyone when borderline. fi) reporters, not only will the story be dealing with reporters at cons or just in 2. Community members who give favorable, but you will also get the general. of time and talent to improve the enjoyment of seeing your name and Avoid 'buzz' words -- There are community. possibly picture in print. certain "buzz" words and phrases which STARFLEET members do community you should try to avoid. Phrases like service as a matter of course and deserve "fan club" give the impression of the media coverage for this kind of a screaming teenagers. Remember the story. Stories of this type are a welcome PROS AND official name of our organization is relief to the hardcore news items that STARFLEET, the International Star generally fill news reports. CONS Trek Fan Association. If you dislike Readers/listeners/watchers are impressed the term "trekkie" explain to the reporter to learn about the generosity of others MOC 7 MEMORIES that you prefer the term "trekker". and are often willing to assist in future By Larry Pischke Patiently explain that to many Trek fans, fund-raising campaigns. the term "trekkie" is derogatory and not Try not to come off as strange or generally used. borderline, by quoting episode dialogue Stress the Positive aspects of the or explaining how warp drive works. Most of the fantastic convention is still Chapter -- Explain that the Kitty Hawk This is fodder for a reporter and usually a blur to me, even after three weeks. I is involved in many aspects of diminishes chances of a favorable story can only recall bits and pieces, images community service. Explain the highway and makes you seem a little less and impressions. Here are some of cleanup, our involvement in the PBS believable. them: telethons, and most important our chosen Be patient with reporters -- Many Thursday: Dull Day charity "The DUKE Children's times reporters are assigned stories they Reunion: Steve and Suzanne, Big John Hospital". Also remember to talk about don't particularly want. In these cases "Welcome to the Region One the STARFLEET scholarship programs. be especially patient and understanding. Conference - Please work Security" Most parents are interested in anything Charm the socks off the reporter and Free Beer! that will help pay their child's tuition. they will find it hard to write a bad "It's a buying frenzy!!" ("Then send Explain your terms Remember story. them this way!") when you talk about "starships and Call the editor and reporter -- After Pat finally shows up shuttles", "admirals and captains", the story is printed, contact the media. New episode... "The Naked Now!!?! explain these terms to the reporter. To Tell them what you like/dislike about the Bjo Trimble is a great guest them it might sound as if you actually story, correct any mistakes you feel were Affordable auction prices - but still believe that there is an actual spaceship made, and most importantly be polite nothing bought in high orbit above the city. and thank them for their time and effort Mawwage : "I Do ... Pig!" Cultivate a relationship with the and indicate your willingness to work Slam dancing? Last year's dance was reporter — Even if it is a couple of with them in the future. better questions, try to let the reporter get to Feeling awkward about answering Jesus on the toilet handing out beer know you. The sooner the reporter gets questions -- If you don't know or feel "Afro man Afro mangy" to know that you are just an average you cannot answer the question politely, What a convention! Sign me up for next person who shares a common interest direct them to someone who you feel year!

IHE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 9 APRIL, 1992 that can afford the trip and like to see interesting things are encouraged by M-O-C 7: ONE CON'S LIFE this crew member to make the trip. I By John P. Miller went and really enjoyed myself. Only pack your own lunch (prices are ridiculous).

Magnum Opus Con 7. That pretty be missed. A truly good time was had much says it all. This was my first by all, and some mortals even got to buy REAL convention, or would that be stuff at the auction since STARFLEET's AWAY TEAM MOC convention? After driving some two main highrollers (namely J.R. and 550 miles from Cape Canaveral, I was Jeannette Maddox) weren't trying to SECURITY ready to party! I arrived about 12:30 outbid one another. Even so, I still a.m. (as in after midnight) on Thursday couldn't afford to buy anything! Maybe REPORT night/Friday morning. After paying my next year... See ya there. By Jeff Habrych 10,000 credits to get in, I got a chance to check things out. Just as I expected. MOC is a cool place to be in the spring. The dealer's room was quite impressive. TO BOLDLY GO I am happy to report that the MOC 7 Almost as impressive as their prices! away team made it safely back to the And of course, since everyone in the WHERE ship with only minor injuries (ie. mostly hotel was with fandom (i.e. NO By Deborah Herndon hangovers and bruised egos). MUNDANES!!) it was a great While there were plenty of Klingons, atmosphere to promote revelry. There well behaved I might add (there were no were MOC Marriages (psst, Larry, the unnecessary deaths), the Romulans must marriage is over now, or is it?), costume My mission was to successfully locate have gotten bad intelligence because contests, dancing, general partying, and report the conditions of the Star none showed up. fencing demonstrations, etc. One of the Trek exhibit. After a long and During MOC, I had the opportunity to better events was the Slave Auction. somewhat treacherous journey, I had sit down with the Region I Security Yes, that's right. If you had the green, found the designated place for the Coordinator and Chiefs to discuss a you could bid for a slave that had put showing. I quickly ascertained that the Region I security newsletter, Region him/her/it-self up for auction. The mission would prove to be more time security patches, and other related money went to charity, and you got a consuming than anything else. The security items. slave for three hours to do your bidding. Aliens in charge (some refer to them as Some interesting topics were discussed And if you couldn't make the auction, museum employees) had decided the best about doing convention security and I there was the Home Slave Shopping method of control would be to issue hope to discuss them with our security Network on MOC TV, the convention passes every 15 minutes. To give an chief for implementation at our next television channel. example, the STARFLEET personnel convention. Speaking of MOC TV, it was run just could arrive at noon and if there had like you would run your own TV station. been 1,400 people to see the show While we were watching The already, all the tickets would have been Terminator, during Linda Hamilton's given out. Now this is all highly nude scene, the picture suddenly improbable, but nevertheless not ME TRANSMITTE FROZE. It then rewound and started at impossible. So all future crew members the beginning of the nude scene again! who are going to attempt this mission SURSUM, Talk about service! And we didn't even should be thus noted. Now on to the CALEDONI have to touch the remote control!! data of the mission itself; in a word it STARFLEET's Region One was very good. There were costumes Conference was held at MOC this year. that previously were unaccessible, BEAM ME After attending the prerequisite meetings several models including the permanent UP, and doing all the political brown-nosing Enterprise. I do not want to destroy the SCOTTY type stuff (just kidding, thrill by going into detail about all of the really honest and I mean that) we different items but some very interesting got to go to the USS Star League's one stories or information about the show Liz Rea d year anniversary party. Singing was displayed and a couple of wonderful filksongs with the likes of the Admiralty photo opportunities were presented for and special guest Bjo Trimble is not to the general enmasse. Crew members

THE WRIGHT STUFF PA GE 10 APRIL, 1992

THE SHUTTLE SHUFFLE STAR TREK ITEMS By John Troan FOR SALE By Robert Yates

As of this writing, Discovery just landed at KSC in Florida, The crew's mission was to monitor and record ozone levels in the atmosphere. DOLLS: Thee mission for the rest of '92 (in short) are listed below. The TASHA YAR (4 left) $10.00 each launch dates are (obviously) subject to change at any time. BOOKS: STS-49 5/7 Endeavour Intelsat VI Reboost ALL STAR TREK BOOKS (16 left) . . . $.50 each Space station Construction Testing TAPES AND RECORDS: STS-50 6/9 Columbia US Microgravity Lab STAR TREK IN VINO VERITAS Extended Mission (RECORD - 9 left) $1.00 each (about 2 weeks) STS -46 7/11 Atlantis Tethered Satellite COMIC BOOKS: System GOLD KEY COMICS European Retrievable Carrier JUNE ISSUE (mint - 1 left) $10.00 STS-47 8/12 Endeavour Spacelab (Japan) SEPTEMBER ISSUE (mint - 1 left) $10.00 Get Away Special MARCH ISSUE (mint - 1 left) $7.00 Bridge OTHER ISSUES (mint and good - 9 left) $3.00 each STS-52 9/24 Columbia Laser Geodynamics Satellite WHITMAN COMICS US Microgravity Payload THE IMMORTAL (1 left) $.50 Attitude Sensor Package SPOCK'S BRAIN (1 left) $.50 STS-53 10/15 Discovery Defense Department Mission (no details yet) OTHER ITEMS: STS-54 12/33 Endeavour Tracking and Data Relay STAR TREK FIRST SERIES TRADING CARD PACKS Satellite (#6) (5 left) $.75 each Diffuse X-ray Spectrometer The missions for '93 are just as diverse, but still mainly Call Robert Yates at (919) 552-7053 for availability. scientific-based. The highlight is the mission tentatively planned for December to install the corrective instruments in the Hubble Space Telescope.

NASA LEMON-AID: THE SAGA OF ENDEAVOUR . By John P. Miller

Well, after the Space Shuttle get all the bugs worked out. Endeavour May 5, 1992. It is believed that the Endeavour's Flight Readiness Firing, we is still sitting on Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSME's) can come to find out that the new orbiter is Space Center. Fortunately, the engine be replaced without having to postpone living up to its namesake's reputation. change-out should be possible at the pad. the launch date. Two of Endeavour's three main engines Having to roll-back to the Vehicle "Endeavour is a 95% scale model of a will have to be changed out due to Assembly Building (VAB) and de-stack REAL orbiter." -- a NASA engineer problems with the turbo pumps in each the orbiter to put it back in the Orbiter overheard while talking about the new one. This was a new design turbo pump Processing Facility (OPF) would create an orbiter while it was undergoing repairs for from Pratt & Whitney; one that should enormous delay in processing flow. some of the 15,000 problems we have had prove superior to the original, once they Endeavour's maiden voyage, STS-49: with it since it was delivered to us by Intelsat Re-boost, is still scheduled for Rockwell International.

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 11 APRIL, 1992 DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS

COMPUTER SCIENCE MEDICAL SCIENCE By John Troan By Liz Read By John Troan

Nothing much here - most of my time Now that warm weather is here, many Due to the lack of a department head has been spent in the Science Offices. of us are planning vacations, trying to (again), I will be filling in. Most of the From some of the incoming reports, I lose "winter pounds", or taking up a new sub departments have enjoyed the see we've been streamlining the data sport. (Been to volleyball practice?) leisurely mapping mission - except the flow from the mostly unused terminals. When exercising or engaging in a new astronomers. They're mentioning the There is also a team working on the sport, go slow. Start easy and build up lack of time to log the coordinates of all holodecks to liven things up. to higher levels of performance the objects in the sector. gradually. One of the most important ENGINEERING things to remember is to warm up and By Pat Heinske cool down. Listen to those muscles - they know when you're overdoing it. Vacations! Who doesn't live for that All is well in Engineering, and I am wonderful break from routine? Planning glad to report that the department has NAME THE ahead will ensure you have a great one. expanded! As of this writing, it now In addition to plane and hotel UNIFORM consists of myself, Kelly Rasmussen, reservations, think about health. You'll Robert Yates, Adolf Viol, Steve Motley, probably need good sunglasses and INSIGNIA Josh Klapper, and Zeke Crater. Robert sunscreen. Do you take prescription By Lynette Crowley Yates has been appointed as Electrical medicine? Take enough to last while Engineering Chief. Propulsion is in the you're away, and take a copy of your capable hands of Adolf Viol, and Steve prescription in case the pills are lost. Motley is now the Kitty Hawk's Consider packing a few things like Transporter Chief. (So does this make aspirin, stomach remedies, etc., so you him Chief O'Motley?) don't have to pay the exorbitant prices in Replies have started coming in for the the hotel gift shop. first annual trip to Kitty Hawk, N.C., Finally, don't include alcohol in and the date of the trip will be decided anything like diving, hang-gliding, white- immediately after the May meeting. water rafting, etc., etc., - or driving. The highway cleanup was held before the April meeting, and we had the largest number of volunteers that we've OPERATIONS ever had! Thanks, everyone! As you By Larry Pischke can see, it REALLY makes a difference when you make the effort! Afterwards, Well, I finally found my office. It's the group descended upon Denny's for a been so long since the Kitty Hawk has Huge Hurl (oh, I mean Grand Slam) had an OPS department head that no one Breakfast, and then half a dozen of us remembered where the office was. went to the Renaissance Fair at Theatre- When I asked the computer, it just in-the-Park. Then, on to the meeting at laughed at me. Stupid computer. 4:00. oh, I smell smoke. I had My major task seems to be rewriting better go see what Robert's gotten his the Operations Manual. I found the old hands into now. (I hope it's just his one holding up the corner of the desk. hands!) Gotta go! Chief Engineer out. What a mess! I guess I have my work cut out for me. Now, if Engineering can get my Ho-Ho-Omatic up here, I'll get started. Pat?

THE WRIGHT STUFF PAGE 12 APRIL, 1992