

THE OFFICIAL AS IT GETS NEWSLETTER OF NECRONOMICON '97
Tampa, Florida October 10-12, 1997
A Wade in the Water publication by Ann Evelyn Morris
74273.1607@compuserve.com
ph: 813/677-6347
P.O. Box 2076, Riverview, FL 33568
Web pages: http://www.stonehill.org and http://milieux.com
NECRONOMICON '97
OCTOBER 10 (NOON) thru 12 (6 p.m.).....TAMPA, FLORIDA
CAMBERLY PLAZA
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NOTES FROM ANNIE'S ATTIC
The questions a newsletter should answer are, "Who?
What? Where? When? Why?" and, "How?" So, here are the answers to the essential questions.
WHO?
This year's NECRONOMICON will host Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca
Moesta, and Joseph Green as its Guests of Honor. Other delightful and esteemed guests will be: Charles Fontenay, Don Callander, Scott Ciencin, Matthew DiPalma, Barbara and Ben Bova, Craig MacDougal, Steve Antczak, Owl Goingback, Jeanette Spencer, Vince Courtney, Kendall F. Morris, Mitch Hyman, Jack Haldeman, Barbara Delaplace, Richard Lee Byers, Rick Wilber, Gary Roen, Jeffrey Cisneros, Randy Miller, James Bassett, Ingrid Neilson, Sarah Clemens, Rembert and Beverly Parker, Cat Mitchell, and Gerry Duran.
WHAT?
Here's the scoop. NECRONOMICON is a science fiction, fantasy, and
horror convention for fans of these genres (and related topics) who want to spend a weekend going to panels, participating in games and workshops, visiting a dealers room and art show, showing off their finest costumes, answering trivia questions, hanging out at parties, singing in the rain--uh, singing SF and fantasy folk songs, and generally having a fine old time.
Panels
We will have several tracks of programming featuring subjects such topics as Suspect Science, Salvador Dali as Science Fiction Artist, Writing for the Younger Set, etc. Our writers, scientists, artists, and other experts will give you the benefit of their knowledge in the science fiction, fantasy, and science fields. There will be a track of fan programming along with the events that feature our professionals in these fields.
Art Show and Auction
Our art show will be the place to pick up that certain something you've been needing to complete the gothic decor of your family room or add to the Techno theme you've got going in your dining room. Perhaps you'll find just the right gift for Grandma's birthday. You never know what you'll find but it will be interesting and wonderful. You not only can enjoy the view but can help determine which artists take receive honors for their efforts. Each year we ask those who visit the art show to vote for their favorite pieces. So, even if your purse is poor, you can be a part of the art world.
The Art Auction will take place on Saturday night and it will be a lively affair. Items that have received three bids in the art show will go to auction. Perhaps one piece you bid on will go too high for you but then, that charming little piece you thought you never could own just might go for an amazingly affordable price right into your happy hands.
Gaming
There is going to be so much gaming at NECRONOMICON '97 that the gaming department is going to have its own program book. We will have live role playing, traditional R.P.G.s, and card games.
We are proud to be host to the national "Middle Earth" Tournament sponsored by I.C.E. Two hundred players will be participating in this tournament. We wish all of them good luck and good times.
For schedules, games and more info, follow this link to: Necro Gaming
For further information on gaming, please write to Gaming at P.O. Box 2076, Riverview, Fl 33568, or send e-mail to gaming@stonehill.org
2nd Annual Cthulhu Memorial Ice Scream Social and Carnival of Souls
Get your just desserts Friday night. Come to our ice scream social and then have a go at our midway of the macabre where you can get your fortune told or exhibit your skills at the games. The ice scream is free and it costs a mere pittance to purchase tickets to use at the carnival. The proceeds from ticket sales will go to our charity, Wildlife Rescue, Inc.
Fan Cabaret
"Life is a cabaret, old chum. Come to the cabaret." Once you've had your sweet treats and a turn around the carnival, why not stick around and experience the talents of your fellow fans. Perhaps you would even want to be a part of the show. Get the guitar out from under the bed, dust off those tap shoes, work on that stand-up routine, or practice that song you are always singing in the shower. Show us your stuff. We'll have advance sign- up but you can pop up and volunteer to entertain us right at the cabaret, if you wish. This is your chance to be a star!
Mighty Rassilon Art Players
Yes, those thespians from the North (well, Georgia IS north of Florida) will be with us once again. We aren't at liberty to tell you what to expect. Just expect ANYTHING! We do know that they plan to present a one act play and a radio program. Those of you who have been with us the past two years know that whatever the Mighty Rassilon Art Players do is great.
Ygor Party
The mystique of the Ygor Party is something you just have to be there to understand. Nobody can explain it to you. This yearly event is always S.R.O. It's a Friday night Con Suite tradition.
This year, the theme for the party is THE ROARING TWENTIES. We do mean the 1920s. So, go up to your granny's attic and look for some funky old clothes to wear and practice your Charleston. Here are a couple of costuming hints for you. If you can't find old clothes from the 20s, the non day-glow stuff from the 60s will do nicely for the ladies. Guys will do fine in suits with wide lapels on the jackets and wide ties. An alternative for the fellas is to wear suspenders with slightly baggy pants and go without a jacket. With prohibition in effect, you know we have to be careful, so you gotta use the password, "Ygor sent me," to get into our cozy little speakeasy. Once our keeper of the spirits knows you are okay, you can join in the GHOURMET BHEER TASTING where you can learn about brews from all over the world.
Remember, the word is, "Ygor sent me."
Fencing Demonstration
Not everyone can be a Zorro, a Scarlet Pimpernel, or even an Edmund Blackadder. There just isn't much call for swashbuckling heroes these days. However, the sport of fencing is alive and well and you can learn about it at our fencing demonstration. Maestro Gerardo (Gerry) Duran of Tampas Fencing Academy will be with us to illustrate some of the skills that go into becoming a fencer. Join Maestro Duran and you just might be lucky enough to get to try your hand at wielding one of those long, lovely swords.
Children's Programming
We've added something new to our program this year. So many of our members have grown up with us and now have little people of their own running around that the time to provide some program topics just for kids has come. We will have workshops for the younger set on art, music, and costuming. Along with the workshops, there will be games and a scavenger hunt. We do encourage parents to attend with the kids. In addition to the programs just for kids, we will have a panel for the parents on what you should be reading to your children.
Con Suite
The con suite will be open from Friday at noon till Sunday evening at 6. There, you will find munchies and soft drinks to help you keep your energy up through the weekend. The con suite is also a good place to sit and chat with friends or just relax for a while.
Dealer's Room
Start saving your pennies now because you are going to find all kinds of goodies at our version of the Bizarre of the Bazaar. Our merchants will be ready, willing, and able to entice you with their wonderful wares from noon to 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Belly Dancing Workshop
This is not just for those who want to see some lovely ladies doing sensuous dances. Our belly dancing divas Beverly Parker and Cat Mitchell want you to get up out of your seats and dance with them. They'll show you some of the basic moves and have your toes twinkling in no time. If you think the belly dancing workshop is only for the ladies, you are mistaken. There are many men who do this well-known type of Middle Eastern dance as well and we'd love to have some of our gentlemen participate in the workshop. Don't be shy. It'll be fun.
Trivia
Those who enjoy testing their knowledge of the archaic and arcane can do so in our trivia quiz. If you know who the costume designer for "The Day the Earth Stood Still" was and what George Lucas had for breakfast on May 23, 1977, this is the game for you. Even if you don't know those particular tidbits, this could be the game for you. You will be able to sign up for this pursuit of trivia at convention registration.
Hall Costume Contest
If you like to dress up and show off your alter-ego but don't care for strutting it on stage in the masquerade, we have just the contest for you. Friday evening from 7 p.m. until midnight and Saturday from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m., our hall costume judge will be lurking about handing out ribbons to hall costume wearers who are deemed deserving of special recognition. The only restriction on winning one of these awards is that the winner may not enter the masquerade with the same costume.
Masquerade
This is the place to be on Saturday night. Whether you want to be a part of the audience or one of the ones who take it on stage, you'll be with the 'in-crowd' at the masquerade. The show begins at 8 p.m. but get there early to get a good seat. If you are interested in entering the masquerade, you need to be signed up for it by 5 p.m. Saturday. We will have information and forms available at convention registration. For more information on the masquerade, send e-mail to: 74273.1607@compuserve.com or write to: Masquerade, P.O. Box 2076, Riverview, FL 33568, or call 813/677-6347 and ask for Ann.
WHERE?
The place to be for all the festivities is the Camberley Inn in Tampa,Florida.
If you are going to be staying at the hotel overnight, we suggest that you reserve your room early. There is a lot of demand for hotel space in October in Tampa and last year many of our members had to stay elsewhere because they waited till it was too late to get a room in our hotel. The room rate will be $79 per night plus tax for 1-4 people.(Limit of 4 persons per room will be strictly enforced by the hotel.) For suite prices, check with the hotel. Be sure to mention you are with the convention to get the special rate. The toll free number for the Camberley Inn is 1-800-555-8000. The local number is 623-6363. The address is 10221 Princess Palm Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610. If you are not able to get a room in the Camberley Plaza, close hotels are Sumner Suites,Sabal Park (within walking distance of the Camberley), 813/622-8557, Red Roof Plaza- Fairgrounds, 813/623-2545, and Red Roof Plaza,Brandon, 813/681-8484.
Directions to the Camberley Inn
WHEN?
Mark these dates on your calendar with big friendly circles. OCTOBER 10-12, 1997!
Registration, art show, dealers room will open at noon on Friday. Other activities will begin later in the afternoon. The whole thing (except for any dead dog parties that just happen to pop up) will wind down at six p.m. Sunday.
WHY?
Because we like you. Those of you who are as old as I am know that reference (but don't get the idea this is some kind of Mickey Mouse convention). We do run NECRONOMICON because we like fans and even more so because IT'S FUN! We hope you'll be with us to join in the high spirits.
HOW?
To be a member of NECRONOMICON, all you gotta do is send us money and then show up on the appointed weekend (remember, OCTOBER 10-12, 1997) to have a good time. The cost of membership is $18 till September 15. Then, the cost goes to $25. We will accept early registration till October 1st. The at-the-door cost will still be $25. One day memberships will be $10 and may only be purchased at the convention. There will be a membership ceiling of 800 people, so please register early if possible.
Send checks or money orders made out to NECRONOMICON, or to STONE HILL SF ASSOC. to:
Linda Bennett
NECRONOMICON '97
P.O. Box 2076
Riverview, FL 33568
For More Information
Although a lot has been covered here, there will surely be some questions that have not been answered. So, here's a list that may be of help. These are the departments that get the most questions before the convention and whom to contact with inquiries.
Art Show & Auction: Sherri Mustaq, (813)621-6645
Convention Hotel,Camberley Plaza: 1-800-555-8000 (nationally) or (813) 623-6363 (locally)
Dealer's Room: Rolaine Smoot, 9813)684-1144 or e-mail: rolaine.smoot@soft.gifl.com
Fan Cabaret, Masquerade: Ann Morris (813)677-6347 or e-mail: 74273.1607@compuserve.com
Gaming: Heather & Dean Dryer, (813)903-0390, or e-mail: gaming@stonehill.org
Live Role Playing Games: Debbie Hicks, (813)677-6347, or e-mail: 74367.312@compuserve.com
Memberships: Linda Bennett, (813)671-2859, or e-mail: bennettl@gte.net
Program Book Ad Information: Mark Jones, (813)677-6347, or e-mail: jomark@ix.netcom.com
Whatever Is Left: Ann Morris or Debbie Hicks (813)677-6347.
Please don't ask us for the convention schedule ahead of time. Except for the events whose days or times are given in this newsletter, the schedule will not be available or "set in stone" until the time of the convention.
Contact us by snail mail at:
NECRONOICON '97
P.O. Box 2076
Riverview, FL 33568
by E-Mail at: 74273.1607@CompuServe.com
by phone at: 813/677-6347
Visit our web pages at:
www.milieux.com and www.stonehill.org
NECRONOMICON is a non-profit organization run by fans for fans.
If you have special needs, feel free to contact us with any questions you may have about accessibility.