March/April 1999
Contents
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Join the In-Club
Forthcoming Books: April 1999
WSFA's Little Shop of Horrors
Madeleine Reviews
Cat Haiku
And Wild Excitement is Heard
Hard End of the Spectrum
Joe's Grumblings
Senate Votes for Star Wars
Ursula Le Guin to Read
Nebula Nominees
Join the In-Club
If You Aren’t On the List, You Need to Pay Your Dues
| Alexis Gilliland | Bernie Bell | Bob MacIntosh |
| Candy Myers | Chuck Divine | Collen Stumbaugh |
| Covert Beach | David Dines | Elspeth Kovar Burgess |
| Erica Ginter | Evan Phillips | Gail Dodd |
| George Shaner | Jim Uba | Joe Mayhew |
| John Pomeranz | Judy Kindell | Kathi Overton |
| Lance Oszko | Lee Gilliland | Meredith Wagner |
| Mike Nelson | Mike Taylor | Mike Watkins |
| Nikki Lynch | Rebecca Prather | Richard Lynch |
| Sam Lubell | Sam Pierce | Steve Smith |
| Vicki Smith | Winne Lin |
Back to ContentsForthcoming Books: APRIL 1999
By Samuel Lubell
The following books may be found in your local bookstore on the first of April.
Teletubbies: The Novel by Alan Dean Foster. (Ace: $6.99) In a post-apocalyptic landscape, the teletubbies live in a spaceship, follow orders from a voice broadcast over loudspeakers, and have televisors implanted in their bodies. Are they humanity’s last children or the descendents of its conquerors? Novelization of the PBS television series, by the author of Nightmare on Sesame Street.
Bronx Transfer by John Slith (Tor: $6.99) Sequel to Manhattan Transfer. Aliens kidnap the entire Bronx and hold it for ransom. "Good riddance" says the people of Earth who refuse to pay. Now it is up to a motley assembly of Bronx residents, completely on their own, to defeat a Galactic Empire, invent faster-than-light travel, and somehow find their way back home. Meanwhile, the Earth is demanding that the aliens pay up if they want the Earth to take the Bronx back. This one gets a Bronx Cheer.
Touched by the President by Lawrence Watt-Evans. (Tor $6.99) A certain intern’s adventures in a fantasy kingdom. Sequel to Touched by the Gods.
The Empire’s Lost Knight. By Sir Terry Pratchett (Corgi:
ê 6.99) The kingdom of Termazu, about to be taken over by the evil Dark Overlord, uses the magic of its Last Wizard to summon a knight from the future in the hopes that a future knight would know of weapons mighty enough to defeat the Darkness. But what they got was a recently knighted author of humorous fantasy who persists in making fun of everything he sees in the kingdom. Rumor has it that the always funny Terry Pratchett tried to get this one sold as non-fictional autobiography. What a jokester.
The Bad Old Stinkers edited by Gardner Dozois (St. Martin’s Press: $25) The anthologist of The Good Old Stuff and The Good New Stuff turns his attention to stories never before reprinted. It includes stories that I had no idea existed even though they were written by big name science fiction authors. Each story is introduced by the editor repeating threats of what the author would do to him if he dared reprint that bad old stinker. The editor’s preface is signed "by Salman Rushdie’s new room-mate".
The Lost Lens by E.E. Doc Smith (Old Earth Books $20) Along with the other Lensmen novels, Mike Walsh got a bonus, the long unavailable lost Lensman novel. Kinnson drops his lens on a multicolored carpet and stumbles around for the rest of the novel unable to see or read minds. But somehow he must defeat an evil Boskonian. Think Mr. Magoo meets space opera.
The Superfluous Dragon by Kit Kerr (Bantam $14.95) Although a dragon is prominently featured on the cover, it only enters at the last page of the book, after the battle has been fought. Gee, one would think putting dragons on covers caused books to sell better or something.
Nano-Nano by Vernor Vinge and Robin Williams. (Warner $30) The latest celebrity collaboration. In the year 9999, as the world approaches the singularity, scientists discover that nanotechnology won’t function in years with five digits. Only an anachronistic old actor/doctor/programmer/Indian chief can reprogram the nanos through the power of humor.
Rad-Trek by Peter David. (Pocket $6.99) A Star Trek TNG book. After coming within seconds of lethal radiation exposure for the nth time, all the crew start showing signs of radiation sickness. This severely jeopardizes their mission to the planet Coiffure, where hair style is a mark of status. The cover with bald versions of Worf, Rikker and Troy is especially eye-catching.
WSFA’s Little Shop of Horrors
The February First Friday on 2/5/99 was called to order with Judy banging, "All right. Let’s have a meeting. It’s 9:15." There was no old business. The treasury stood <metaphorically speaking> at $5,199.77. "Dues are due and payable" said Bob the Mac. "A reminder," said Prez Judy, "Dues are up. We doubled them," the club gasped, "to $10." Covert commented, "That’s far better than if we pegged them to the rate of inflation from when we set up the $5 dues." Elspeth directed Sam to print a list of members. "I’ll have to get one," Sam said.
"Any reports from Disclave?" "No," said Covert, secretively.
Lee Gilliland announced that the entertainment committee has an object. "I got it for an early Valentine’s Day present. Alexis bought a bunch of singing dancing flowers." The club looked and she was right. They were singing, dancing plastic flowers. "You can’t turn it off. The cat knows how to turn it on." "Wow," said a WSFAn. "It’s just like the plant in Little Shop of Horrors." Elspeth said, "I have a friend who NEEDS one for a wedding present." "I got it at Lord and Taylor’s" Alexis admitted.
For old business Judy reminded everyone of the March switch. March First Friday in Beltsville, Third Friday in Virginia. "Do we have new business?"
"It’s not a formal motion," said Elspeth. "But there are two related events. 1. We aren’t doing a Disclave. 2. We changed our tax status so we need to do something educational."
Judy said, "It needs to promote science fiction." Alexis pointed to The WSFA Journal as something the club does to promote science fiction. "We need to do something to balance the social activities," continued Judy. "If you have any thoughts to promote the science fiction genre, submit them to us."
Joe said, "My library in Greenbelt has sponsored a SF day. I don’t have the only one. Try to think of some venue. We have lots of SF writers in the area. Think of things like that in your backyard. WSFA can help provide writers."
Joe then gave away his gloves. Richard Lynch passed out AussieCon 3 Reports and Mimosa issue 23.
The Committee to Upgrade the Soda Machine said that Thomas the Red suggested that BSFS upgrade the soda machine and purchase it. Lee Gilliland is operating a home for lost beanie babies in her garbage can. Lance is doing a mailing list for Eurocon. Judy announced a Bucconeer Writing Contest. She had envelopes and letters and stamps for a folding party. Elspeth said she isn’t homeless, nor are the cats. She is facing a deadline and moving at the end of month. Dan is in Gaithersburg, all cats survived. Meeting adjourned at 9:33.
Pres. Judy Kindell, VP Elspeth Kovar Burgess, Sec. Sam Lubell, Treas. Bob MacIntosh, Trust. Steven Smith, 2000 Chair Covert Beach, Bernard Bell, Gail Dood, Alexis and Lee Gilliland, Eric Jablow, Keith Lynch, Nicki and Richard Lynch, Keith Marshall, Joe Mayhew, Michael Nelson, Lance Oszko, Rebecca Prather, Richard Pugh, George Shaner, Michael Taylor, Michael Watkins, Nick Sanders, David Grimm, Scott Hoffman, Victoria Smith, Chris Holte, Mary Bentley, and C3PO and R2D2.
Madeleine Reviews:
The Hour of Judgement by Susan R. Matthews
Reviewed by Madeleine Yeh
This is the third book in a series. I started writing reviews with the first book in this series Exchange of Hostages. It was wonderfully original and horrible. It had a rarity in SF universes, a modern, advanced, organized and totally repressive government. An oppressive, dictatorial rule of law. Most universe follows Star Wars, with tyranny and cruelty being the hallmark of empire; and justice and mercy the identifiers of legitimate government. Here the rule of law produces the cruelty. After the second book came out, I took to reading vampire novels. A vampire is a much safer and less monstrous villain. The books were so enthralling despite the horrific universe, that I grabbed the third book as soon as I saw it.
Hour of Judgment, is definitely part of a series. The main character and the universe are established in the earlier books. You need to read Exchange of Hostages in order to appreciate this book, and you ought to read the second book; Prisoner of Conscience again as well.
In case you haven't read the previous two books, let me recapitulate. Our hero, Andrej Koscuiko, combines the jobs of being Chief Medical Officer and Torturer for the Jurisdiction Fleet Ship Ragnarok. The Jurisdiction is a multiplanet political system which spans thousands of planets. It uses torture in a methodical method to both obtain information and to execute. The First Level of Inquiry results in no permanent damage or serious injury, the Tenth Level has the prisoner being tortured to death over a period of 6 or more days. A medical degree is required lest the victim die too early or before confessing. There is an acute shortage of Inquisitors, few doctors want to torture people, and many of those don't last long. Andrej is one of the few competent and reliable Inquisitors. He was forced into the Fleet, and into this job by his father for an eight year enlistment. This term is nearly up.
The Jurisdiction Universe is a less overtly horrible place than in the previous two books. There are no torture chambers filled with victims to be tortured one after another after another. There are no villains plotting their enrichment by mass murder. The cruelty and callousness are still there but more a part of the background than the forefront.
At first I thought this was a much lesser book than its predecessors. The setting was more normal, a city half wrecked from war, and abandoned by most of its populace. The previous books were set in a dark and isolating space station and a prison. The characters included normal civilians like a doctor, a gardener, and a young girl dreaming of romance. The monsters in this book were more mundane, a sadistic captain and his racist, bigoted, stupid, vicious thug. Then I found myself reading and rereading this book.
The language and style is very clear and very elegant, leading the reader from one line to the next, one scene to another. The characters are distinct and individualistic with their own desires and values. The setting and the detail are wonderful. This is a good book. Its not as innovative as the earlier ones, but it is still very good.
The Jurisdiction Universe is more depressing in its banality than in the avalanching horror of the previous book. It systematically dehumanizes everyone. Andrej has finally finished his tour of duty with the Fleet. Now the civilian branch of the government, the Bench wants him. This is referred to as " annexing a critical resource" as opposed to "drafting or pressganging or shanghaiing a person". A woman suffers aggravated assault and battery, the perpetrator is blamed for damaging Bench property. The Bench indentures a world over to a private individual, caring only that the taxes are paid. Various people ranging from slaves to our hero are described as "resources". Slavery in one form or another is pervasive.
The villains might be lesser monsters, but they are disgusting enough. Captain Lowden enjoys hurting people. He specializes in playing vicious practical jokes on his crew. Not only does he enjoy see people tortured, he's managed to find a method of making it lucrative. He illegally sells the records of Andrej's torture sessions. Andrej has been forced to cooperate by threats to his bond-involuntary troops. Lieutenant Wyrlann is a bully who runs around looking for victims. The Fleet's automatic opposition to the Bench is protecting these people from justice.
CAT HAIKU
Source Unknown
You never feed me.
Perhaps I'll sleep on your face.
That will sure show you.
You must scratch me there! Yes above my tail! Behold elevator butt.
The rule for today Touch my tail I shred your hand. New rule tomorrow.
In deep sleep hear sound cat vomit hairball somewhere will find in morning.
Grace personified.
I leap into the window.
I meant to do that.
Blur of motion then -- silence me a paper bag. What is so funny?
The mighty hunter Returns with gifts of plump birds -- your foot just squashed one.
You're always typing. Well let's see you ignore my sitting on your hands.
My small cardboard box. You cannot see me if I can just hide my head.
Terrible battle. I fought for hours. Come and see! What's a 'term paper'?
Kitty likes plastic Confuses for litter box Don't leave tarp around
Small brave carnivores Kill pine cones and mosquitoes Fear vacuum cleaner
I want to be close to you. Can I fit my head inside your armpit?
Wanna go outside. Oh sh1t! Help! I got outside! Let me back inside!
Oh no! Big One has been trapped by newspaper! Cat to the rescue!
Humans are so strange. Mine lies still in bed then screams My claws are not that sharp.
Cats meow out of angst "Thumbs! If only we had thumbs! We could break so much!"
Litter box not here You must have moved it again I'll cr@p in the sink
The Big Ones snore now Every room is dark and cold Time for "Cup Hockey"
We're almost equals I purr to show I love you Want to smell my butt?
"And Wild Excitement is Heard"
The Third Friday 2/19/1999 meeting at the Ginters opened with Elspeth in charge. "Do you folks want to have a meeting or continue with your funny stories." The club voted for the funny stories. Fortunately Prez Judy walked in. "See, I knew if I delayed long enough Judy would show up," said Elspeth. "Shall we go ahead and have a meeting," Judy took charge. "I’m here, we might as well. It’s 9:14 by my watch so we’ll go with that. Any old business?"
Sec. Sam reminded the club about the switch in March meeting locations and about the need for us to have an education purpose to stay a social welfare organization." Evan asked for our status. Nebulous. Judy said, "We are in-between a social club and educational organization. We have to have as our primary purpose the promotion of science fiction." Evan said, "We haven’t had a Disclave in 2 years. No income." Judy said, "We start having quibbles."
Treasurer Bob reported a "piddling $5,046.95". "Let’s all see Star Wars!" That’s in May. Disclave 2000 reported, "You haven’t told me of our incorporation." The trustees went Duh. The Entertainment Committee announced that they made the impeachment go away. The club applauded. "It was an impairment," said Joe. "Don’t write that down," objected Lee.
Joe’s Committee to do something about history. Joe reported that "Evan is scanning in The WSFA Journal editions from 1967. He’s done a hell of a lot of work. He has an idea that it’s a finite job. He scanned 460 photos. We have stuff I took and Mike Nelson. But a good idea for people to look through their stuff. Fans are notorious for not having a memory. There are pictures of me with brown hair." Mike Nelson was shocked, "They had color back then?" "There’s even pictures of Mike Nelson before he became a monk," Joe retorted.
Evan said that the first two years of The WSFA Journal were scanned in as .pdf files (for Adobe Acrobat). Erica asked, "Would it be helpful to use our sheet feeder?" Evan said No, "Some of the pages are sort of crisp. It is a couple of MB. I’m doing 200, 400, and 600 dpi. With 600 you can print a facsimile of the original." Joe said, "It can be scanned into letter files and reformatted." "Let’s all thank Evan," said Elspeth and the club applauded.
Sam said that he received a list of members and will publish them in the Journal.
Joe said, "On the subject of what to do, I looked into getting the community center [in Greenbelt.] They want $20 an hour. The library would have to get approval. I’d like to do a proposal that I don’t want seconded. I think it may be good to remove all references to Disclave in the Constitution." Judy said that this was already done and Covert confirmed it.
Lee Gilliland said, "I talked to the Arlington library. They are very eager and won’t charge. They want us to do it when schools are not in session." Joe said, "If successful, we could farm it out to other areas. Maybe even Greenbelt that wants to charge me for something that I as a citizen have the right to do." Judy asked Lee to chair the committee. Lee said, "I thought from the glares I would have to." Judy and Elspeth offered to help. "And wild excitement is heard," commented Alexis.
Erica has posted a guide of what cats are to be in, out, and don’t belong. She is now an ordained Minister of the Universal Church. "So not only can I bake your wedding cake, I can marry you too." Lee said, "I am too." Joe explained how ministers witness marriages.
David Hines said Winnie Low and David Hines represented WSFA at Boskone. He showed off a flag that he has limited custody of until the next auction. It is a hamster cozy. Alexis explained the evolution of SFWA’s initials. The Church of England has fewer antecedents at its services than the mosques. Joe said, "That’s no fair. Islam is a religion."
Chuck said that a friend is trying to sell SF art. Mike Nelson said scientists slowed light by putting it into extreme cold. Judy thanked those who helped with the mailing in time for the children’s sf contest. Meeting adjourned at 9:45. Elspeth has a new apartment:
Elspeth Kovar Burgess 610 Main Street, #514 Laurel, MD 20707 301-483-3601
Attendance: Pres. Judy Kindell, VP Elspeth Kovar Burgess, Sec. Samuel Lubell, Treas Bob MacIntosh, Trust. Chuck Divine, 2000 Chair Covert Beach, Bernard Bell, Alexis and Lee Gilliland, David Hines, Eric Jablow, Winnie Lim, Keith Lynch, Nicki and Richard Lynch, Keith Marshall, Joe Mayhew, Candy Myers, George and Michael Nelson, Barry Newton, Judy and Meridel Newton, Evan Phillips, Richard Pugh, Michael Taylor, Madeleine Yeh, and Jean-Luc Picard and William Riker
Hard End of the Spectrum
Editorial by Richard J. Pugh
Someone posed an interesting question to me during a book discussion. Namely, they asked me what I meant by "hard science fiction." It was a more difficult question than I thought it would be, because in order to define "hard science fiction," I had to identify some of the other styles of the genre.
As far as I can tell, the term "hard science fiction" is science fiction literature that doesn't use technology that doesn't exist. Most well known science fiction, especially that from the media, doesn't fall into this category.
Star Trek, for example, is "standard" or "soft" science fiction. It is filled with ultra fantastic technology that looks great on the screen, but frankly doesn't have much basis in modern science. Star Trek works on the assumption that science and economics will change over time to make things like faster than light drive, artificial gravity, replicators, and the like possible.
Doctor Who is "science fantasy." From a literary standpoint, it has more in common with Tolkien and C.S. Lewis than it does with Asimov and Clarke. The technology is very advanced, and no real attempt is made to explain it. Star Wars is also science fantasy, but it has a very different tone. Much of the technology in Star Wars is based on real or existing technology, but the attitudes and behavior of the people who live in that universe have more in common with a medieval or Renaissance age society. In fact, the Galactic Empire bears an uncanny resemblance to the late Roman or Byzantine Empire.
Babylon-5 straddles the lines between hard, standard, and fantastic science fiction. Most of the human technology in Babylon-5 is an extrapolation of what we currently know and use. But at the same time, the more advanced races have technology that is far ahead of what the humans have. The setting has hyperspace, which like warp drive, has no solid basis in what is currently known. It also incorporates elements of the supernatural, and has alien races that are by human standards, and for all practical purposes, super beings.
I'm not trying to say there is anything intrinsically wrong with any of these approaches. In the right hands, any one of them can generate superior literature. A setting does not a good story make; the skill of the writer does. But, the setting can effect how a writer should approach certain things. My own plans in the science fiction arena are clearly set in the "hard" science fiction realm. That may change over time, but for now, that's the route I'm planning to take, and that's why I'm describing hard science fiction.
Most hard science fiction writers try to stick with existing science wherever possible. They only bend the rules when the story absolutely requires it. One topic that typically bends the rules is faster than light, or FTL travel. Most science fiction requires the ability to get from one star system to another in a short period of time. Star Trek and Star Wars absolutely depend on it.
Personally, I have an ongoing difficulty with FTL travel. I like the concept, but every time I look at the issue objectively, I find faults in the theory. So for my own projects, I applied Occam's Razor to the question and went with the easiest, most simple solution. What's the easiest answer for FTL travel? You don't, you can't, and you never will. You might as well try walking through a brick wall.
I don't put much stock in theories that use quantum particles, warping space, hyper space, folding space, or any of that stuff. They all fail my reality check. If you have to resort to technobabble, the way Star Trek does, then why not just declare it to be *magic* and be done with it? Arthur C. Clarke said that sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic; call it magic and save yourself the trouble of trying to explain it.
Artificial gravity fails my check as well. The reason it exists in most science fiction was because writers didn't want to have to deal with that particular problem. Unfortunately, most contemporary readers have seen pictures of people moving around in the Space Shuttle, or in the Mir space station, and they are floating in micro-gravity. Writers who don't address artificial gravity are likely to have themselves questioned somewhere along the line.
Artificial gravity *might* be possible, using electromagnetic fields and such, but I don't expect to see it within my lifetime. Furthermore, the amount of energy it would require to generate an electromagnetic field strong enough to simulate one gee would probably be prohibitively high. In my setting, gravity on a spacecraft or space station is simulated by a centrifuge. If artificial gravity is used anywhere, it would be on something like the moon or mars, where you have the space to build a sufficient power plant, and the population base the justify building such an infrastructure.
As for FTL travel, there is one real world theory in existence that suggests using an artificial wormhole to connect two points of space, but it would also require a huge amount of energy. Don't expect a prototype application of this theory any time soon. As much as I would like it to be possible, I don't believe FTL travel to be possible.
Early science fiction never had to deal with these things. Readers just accepted FTL travel and artificial gravity as a matter of fact; they never thought about it. But modern readers are too sophisticated for that now, largely because we know more about the universe. You have to explain your technology, and if you can't do that effectively, then your audience stops taking you seriously.
There, I'm finished. That is my definition of "hard science fiction." If anyone has a good counterpoint, argument, or comment to this, send it to me.
Richard J. Pugh
(RJPugh@patriot.net)
’s Grumblings
By Special Guest Scribe Joe Mayhew (Thanks Joe)
WSFA Minutes March 5th at Ginter's,
Elspeth called the meeting to order at 9:15. She asked Joe Mayhew to take minutes. He grumbled but acceded. Bob MacIntosh reported WSFA's treasury balance as $5,0998.95.
There is a fifth Friday in April so WSFA is looking for a host.
As both sets of WSFA's hosts will be at Balticon on the first Friday, thus their houses will be unavailable. It was suggested that WSFA "do something" at Balticon, in place of the meeting. The preferred time was Friday night, from 9 to 1 or 2 am. Possibly in a room where some refreshments could be supplied, or, failing that, in function space. Joe Mayhew grumbled that he would investigate whether BSFS could provide space or help.
Joe Mayhew opened discussion of WSFA's materials in storage at the BSFS club house. For the past few years, the art show, con suite, etc. supplies have been stored in the BSFS club house. Previously they had been kept in a space rental facility in Bladensburg which was closed on Memorial Day (requiring that the stuff used be kept until the following Tuesday). It cost more than $1,200 a year. Following Joe's suggestion that WSFA pay $1,000 a year to BSFS to store WSFA's stuff at their clubhouse, it was so arranged, to WSFA's benefit, as well as to BSFS', which was then in need of funds to pay off the mortgage on the clubhouse. However, things have changed. Firstly, BSFS, thanks to Bucconeer, has paid off its mortgages and has title to the building now. Furthermore, there is a lot of material stashed there which is unneeded or unlikely to be used, as well as much that BSFS could share use of. The new WorldCon hangings will probably replace WSFA's set, and our dollies, soda machine and other con suite service items could be used by Balticon - if they could be dug out from the mass of dross stacked in the corner of the BSFS clubhouse. There was some discussion of moving WSFA's material upstairs (making it more difficult to get when needed.)
Someone should be authorized to review, weed and reduce WSFA's property at the club house. Joe estimates that, due to changes since the arrangement was made, the material being stored is worth considerably less than the fee for storing it. By reducing the volume of WSFA's supplies to what we are likely to need, and by sharing use with BSFS of much of what needs storage, BSFS could well forgo further rent. Joe asked that this be discussed so some action can be made soon.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:51
Attendance: Elspeth Kovar Burgess (VP), presiding. Attending: Bob MacIntosh (Treas), Steve Smith (Trust.), Joe Mayhew (scribe) Richard & Nicki Lynch, Eric Jablow, Erica Ginter, Jim & Ginny Tracy, John Pomeranz, Kathy Overton, Bill Squire, WInnie Lim, David Hines, Colleen Stumbaugh, Meredith Wagner, George Shaner, Bernard Bell, Richard Pugh, Madeline Yeh, and Evan Phillips.
Senate Votes for Star Wars, Sight Unseen.
By Samuel Lubell
In a ringing endorsement of the new Star Wars movie before it even comes out, the Senate has voted 97-3 to buy the Star Wars Missile Defense Playset, action figures sold separately.
As the hometown science fiction newsletter, The WSFA Journal was able to obtain an exclusive preview of how the system will work.
When missiles are detected in flight toward the U.S., NORAD technicians will hit a big red button connected to the George Lucas’ Skywalker Ranch in Marin County, California. The team will fly out from there on a moment’s notice, assuming that the hyperspace drive on the Millennium Philcon er Falcon is working this week. Luke will use the Force to divert missiles while Han Solo and Chewbacca shoot down missiles from their ship. Lando Calrissian charms the ruler of whatever nation shot the missiles to visit his home in Cloud City. And the ghosts of Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anikin Skywalker, and Yoda haunt the country until the people surrender.
Ursula K. Le Guin to Read in Virginia and Maryland
The Writing Center is sponsoring a series of readings by Ursula K. Le Guin at various sites in Virginia and Maryland. Ursula K. Le Guin will be in residence at the Writer's Center from March 20 to March 28. During her residency she will offer a workshop and readings and talks around the region. Her residency will be funded in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Lila Wallace/Reader's Digest Fund as part of the Audiences for Literature Network initiative. For all tickets call 301 654-8664
Sunday, March 21, 1999 7:30pm Lee Arts Center in Arlington
Center members and Arlington residents: $5; Member guests: $7; Non-members: $10.
5722 Lee Highway (at the corner of Lee & Lexington St. in a former elementary school). From North Glebe Road, turn west on Lee Highway and left on Lexington. From the Beltway, take 66 East, exit at Lee Highway , turn left, and turn right at Lexington) Park at the rear of the building, but enter through the front door.
Friday, March 26, 1999 7:30pm. Leesburg City Hall.
Center members and Leesburg residents: $5; Member guests: $7; Non-members: $10
Saturday, March 27, 1999 7:00pm Queen Anne's County Arts Council, Centreville, VA. Admission: Members of the Center, the Queen Anne's County Arts Council, and the Eastern Shore Writers Association: $5; Center Member Guests: $7; Non-members: $10.
206 S. Commerce St. (in a red brick, former church with a large Arts Council sign). From Route 50/301 going west, turn right on 213N and continue north into Centreville (about 2 miles). Route 213N becomes Commerce St., a one-way street. The Arts Council is on the left.
Sunday, March 28. 2:00 p.m. The Writing Center, Bethesda MD
4508 Walsh Street, Bethesda MD 20815 Voice: 301 654-8664
Alexis and Lee Gilliland
Invite the Members of WSFA
To a Special New Year’s Eve Party
Friday December 31st , 1999 Fifth Friday
Nebula Nominees. Nebula Final Ballot Novels: Novellas: Novelettes: Short Stories: By my count that’s six for Asimov’s, three for F&SF and three for SF Age.
SFWA has announced the following as nominees for the 1998 Nebula Awards for the best in science fiction. Nebula winners are determined by the vote of fellow authors in SFWA. Winners will be announced Saturday, May 1.
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