Bellerophon

From Fanlore
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Zine
Title: Bellerophon
Publisher: Star Klique
Editor(s): Judith Aho
Type: 1975-?
Date(s):
Frequency: bi-monthly
Medium: print
Fandom: Star Trek: TOS, later added science fiction and fantasy
Language: English
External Links:
Click here for related articles on Fanlore.

Bellerophon is the Star Trek: TOS newsletter for the Star Klique, a Star Trek club based in Daly City, California.

The newsletter contains news, trivia, poetry, and reviews. Starting with issues 18-20, the fanzine became "a showcase for sf & fantasy talent" and averaged 40 pages.

A 1986 description:

Star Klique, as some of you may know, puts out a combination sf and fantasy zine. Issue 20 is now for sale, 21 is almost finished, and 22 is just beginning. Anyone interested in contributing art or short fiction to the zine (Bellerophon) is heartily encouraged to do so. Media stories are accepted, adult is ok (sorry, no slash), and non-media stories are welcomed with open arms. [1]

Regarding the Title

The title of the zine: Bellerophon (/bəˈlɛrəfən/; Greek: Βελλεροφῶν) or Bellerophontes (Βελλεροφόντης) is a hero of Greek mythology. He was the greatest hero and slayer of monsters, alongside Cadmus and Perseus, whose greatest feat was killing the Chimera.

From the first issue: "BUT, THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH OUR CHOSING [sic] THE NAME 'BELLEROPHON' FOR OUR PUBLICATION -- WE JUST LIKE THE WAY THE NAME SOUNDED AND LOOKED!!!!!!!"

Like some newsletters of that era, earlier issues were published without the required pre-1989 copyright notices, possibly placing the fanzine in the public domain.

Poor Alex

Alex, one of the contributor's to this zine, has his or her last name spelled at least three different ways: Hochstrasser, Hochstraser, and Hockstraser.

The First Issue's Editorial

What you are reading at this moment is our introductory issue of BELLEROPHON, a bimonthly publication of STAR KLIQUE formed in April 1975 by 15 Star Trek and science fiction aficionados. We had worked on a newszine before and felt we would like to have one published by our newly donned organization. Why the name BELLEROPHON? Purely for visual and pronouncing merits of the word. It is interesting to note that the first 5 letters BELE ( Which is F, fr. fem of beau beautiful) and that the last 4 letters PHON (which means sound: voice: speech). Everyone in STAR KLIQUE works on BELLEROPHON in some way, whether it be writing, drawing, typing, etc., and it is our hope that our new publication will be of interest to everyone. We welcome submissions for BELLEROPHON, but of course there is no payment, as our aim is just to break even on the expenses of having BELLEROPHON printed and mailed. Our next issue will be mailed out at the end of August. Six issues will be $3.00, or $.50 per copy. We are enclosing with this issue a BELLEROPHON subscription order.

WHAT KIND OF A CLUB IS STAR KLIQUE? We are basically a social organization although we plan to begin some charitable work in August. What we do is attend lectures, movies, exhibits, and have rotating meetings and gatherings at each other's homes on a regular basis. If you are in the Bay Area and would like further information regarding STAR KLIQUE, please send a self-addressed stamped envelope.

V.1 N.1

Bellerophon v.1 n.1 was published in June 1975 and contains 11 pages. The front cover is by Sharon Stone, the back cover is a montage of photos taken at Equicon/FilmCon.

  • The Legend of Bellerophon by Frances Aguilar (article about the meaning of the word "bellerophon") (1)
  • Comments Made by Gene Roddenberry at Equicon/FilmCon (2)
  • Poetry Corner by K.G. Runkel (article) ("In SPACE SEED, Khan, after receiving the terms of his and hla people's amnesty, refers to Milton. Scotty, not being up on his Milton, asks to what Khan is referring. His answer is the quote "Better to reign In Hell, than serve in Heaven." Here is the complete soliloquy of Satan in Book I of Milton's PARADISE LOST, lines 242 to 271. [snipped] Khan, portrayed by Ricardo Montalban in SPACE SEED, does a masterful job of conveying the arrogance that Satan has In PARADISE LOST. The prior passages point up that Satan is not sorry fit all for what he has done; indeed, he will attempt to thwart God at every step of the way into eternity.")
  • Report From the East Coast by Karin E. Giblin (article, spotlight on the club: Star Trek Legion) (5)
  • Filmcon Awards (6)
  • Captivity: A Personal Record, original fiction by D.J. Wheeler

V.1 N.2

Bellerophon v.1 n.2 was published in August 1975 and contains 15 pages. The cover is by Karin Giblin. The interior illos are by Karin Giblin and Judith Aho.

front cover of v.1 n.2, Karin Giblin -- portrays Janice Rand
  • Film Reviews of "Devil's Rain," "Dark Star," "The Land That Time Forgot" (2)
  • Lasers and Fusion Power by Sandy Stone (article) (3)
  • Poetry Corner by Karen Gates Runkel (article) (3)
  • Talbot Mundy, review of the books: "Tros" and "Helma" by Karen Gates Runkel (review) (4)
  • Westercon Report by Judith Aho (con report) (5)
  • The Trouble with Trivia by William Deen (6)
  • Trivia Answers (7)
  • Runkle Patch #2, description by Kathy and Cliff Runkle of a bookstore at 1335 Polk Street called "The Paperback" (8)
  • Alien, a poem by Sandy Stone (8)
  • Janice (Part 1), fiction by Pat Turner (9)
  • reply from the Smithsonian
  • Bits and Pieces (12)
  • We Write Letters (12)
  • a full-page black-and-white publicity still of the Enterprise (unnumbered page, not listed in the table of contents)

V.1 N.3

Bellerophon v.1 n.3 was published in October 1975 and contains 19 pages.

cover of v.1 n.3, uncredited
  • Poetry Corner: Sea-Fever (the poem by John Masefield that Kirk quotes in "The Ultimate Computer"), by Karen Gates Runkel (2)
  • Movie Review: "A Boy and His Dog" (3)
  • news (4)
  • photo of Arlene Martell (actress who portrayed T'Pring) (5)
  • more news (6)
  • The First Planet Vulcan, short article by Pat Turner (8)
  • a short memorial for James Blish (8)
  • trivia answers (8)
  • Book Reviews: "Breakaway" and "Mood Odyssey" (Space: 1999 tie-in books) (9)
  • poem by Sandy Stone called "Planetfall" (11)
  • S.S. Delos, full-page illo of a space ship, artists is uncredited (12)
  • Janice, part 2, fiction by Pat Turner (13)
  • Poetry Corner: She Walks in Beauty (14)
  • book reviews: Dome Around America, The Paradox Men (16)

V.1 N.4

front cover of v.1 n.4, Larry Telles
back cover of v.1 n.4, Larry Telles; this is the first issue with an illo on the back cover.

Bellerophon v.1 n.4 was published in December 1975 and contains 16 pages. Interior illos are by Sandy Stone, Karin Giblin, and lettering by Alex Hockstraser.

  • a review of Star Fleet Technical Manual, see that page (2)
  • open letter by Franz Joseph, see Some Comments by Franz Joseph: 1975 (3)
  • The Runkle Patch, description of the bookstore: Holmes Book Company in San Francisco and in Oakland (4)
  • Lasers by Sandy Stone (article) (4)
  • review of book "Islands of Space," by John W. Campbell, reviewed by Katherine Runkle (5)
  • Space: 1990?, an article by Katherine Runkle (6)
  • puzzle page by Bill Deen (7)
  • Janice, conclusion, fiction by Pat Turner (8)
  • puzzle answers (8)
  • "Return to Yesterday," reviews of some models to build, by Alex Hockstraser (12)
  • "Fade Out" book review by Sandy Stone (12)
  • record review: "Fantasy Film World of Bernard Harmann (13)
  • I Am Not Spock illo by Sandy Stone, lettering by Alex Hockstraser (14)
  • I Am Not Spock (review) by Karin Giblin, see that page (15)
  • news tidbits (16)

V.2 N.1

Bellerophon v.2 n.1 was published in February 1976 and contains 22 pages.

front cover of v.2 n.1, Alex Hochstraser (spelled differently in this issue than in the previous one)
back cover of v.2 n.1, Karin Giblin

The art is by Alex Hochstraser (spelled differently in this issue than in the previous one), Karin Giblin, and Sandy Stone.

  • Table of Contents, planet scene by "SanKa"/Sandy Stone (1)
  • Rollerball, movie review by Alex Hochstraser (2) (the table of contents calls it a "book review")
  • Uhura, illo by Sandy Stone (3)
  • "The Chinaberry Tree," short story by Katherine Gates Runkle (4)
  • "Unpredictable Am I," poem by Julie Augustine (8)
  • Puzzle Time, puzzles by Steve Lampen and Bill Deen (9)
  • Star Trek Poetry from Ancient Terra by Katherine Gates Runkle (printed poem (Ode to a Grecian Urn) and commentary regarding poetry referenced or spoken on the show) (12)
  • In Memorium: Bernard Hermann (13)
  • publicity still of the actor Bruce Hyde (14)
  • Interview with Bruce Hyde (15)
  • book review by Sandy Stone: "Heaven and Hell and the Megas Factor" (18)

Reactions and Reviews: v.2 n.1

News, reviews, short fiction, trivia games, art -- BELLEROPHON has it all. It's a vital, alive fanzine. Featuring, in this issue, an interview with Bruce Hyde (Kevin Reilly) who has only very recently been introduced to the incredible world of Star Trek fandom. Also there is poetry, a large ST crossword, a Rollerball review, and a short story by Katherine Gates Hunkle that reads well. This is the best issue yet, and it's getting better. Layout still needs work, and art is plentiful but not quite what it could be. However, it is above average for a zine of its type and frequency. Plus it comes out often and regularly - two points in its favor.[2]

V.2 N.2

Bellerophon v.2 n.2 was published in April 1976 and contains 25 pages.

front cover of v.2 n.2, Steve Leialoha
back cover of v.2 n.2, Wayne Santos

The art is by Steve Leialoha, Wayne Santos, Alex Hochstrasser, Karin Giblin, ALKA-2, and Bill Deen.

  • Equicon Report, a con report and photos by Judy Aho (2)
  • A Psychological Profile of the Cast of Star Trek by B. Larry Fawn (4)
  • The Waiting, poem by Julie Augustine (6)
  • S-F Fair by the Staff (6)
  • Leonard Nimoy as Sherlock Holmes by Mary Frame (7)
  • Star Trek Word Game by Ley Cash (8)
  • The War, original science fiction, meta piece (with a tiny Star Trek twist at the end) by Stephen H. Lampen (reprinted in issue #6 in 1978) (9)
  • The Runkle Patch by Kathy and Cliff Runkle (12)
  • Through the Vortex, fiction by Donald H. Dailey (13)
  • Album Review of "Planet of the Apes" by Karin Giblin (19)
  • Conventions, Bits and Pieces, Fan Clubs (20)

Reactions and Reviews: v.2 n.2

Bellerophon is a frequent small fanzine, a little sparse on the news side, but always containing a wide variety of offerings. For example, this issue contains: a one-page Equicon report with an accompanying page of photos in a montage; an article by B. Larry Fawn; some poetry; a review of Leonard Nimoy's "Sherlock Holmes"; a massive Star Trek word hunt; a 4-page short story by Stephen H. Lampen; another longer short Star Trek story by Don Dailey; and some news items. Plus a really lovely cover illustration by a premier comic artist. Steve Leialoha, which I suspect was bought at the Equicon art auction. (Right, Judy?) [3]

V.2 N.3

Bellerophon v.2 n.3 was published in June 1976 and contains 21 pages. Staff: Judith Aho, Alice Aho, Bill Deen, Karin Giblin, Alex Hochstraser, and Debbie Bello. Art by Wayne Santos (front cover), Karin Giblin, Daphne Smith, and Anita Stone (back cover)

cover of v.2 n.3, Wayne Santos

This issue has been scanned here.

  • Table of Contents (1)
  • On the Inside ("At the recent Star Trek con in San Jose, members of Star Klique were pleased to act as escorts for three of the five Star Trek guest stars in attendance: James Doohan, Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, William Campbell, and Bruce Hyde.") (2)
  • Star Tracking (3)
  • Three Wishes (Star Trek fiction by Cliff and Kathy Runkle) (4)
  • Embryo (movie review, includes photos) (6)
  • Outworld Bestiary by Daphne Smith (8)
  • Andromeda Strain (movie review) (10)
  • Alas, Babylon (book review) (10)
  • Echoes by Julie Augustine (poem) (11)
  • Space Museum Opening (11)
  • Star Trek crossword puzzle (12)
  • Escape to Tomorrow by Alex Hochstraser (story in graphic art form) (13)
  • Runkle Patch (article about space colonization) (19)
  • Bits and Pieces (announcements about science fiction movies and fan gatherings) (20)

V.2 N.4

Bellerophon v.2 n.4 was published in August 1976 and contains 30 pages.

front cover of v.2 n.4, Sandy Stone
back cover of v.2 n.4, Karin Giblin

The art is by Sandy Stone, Alka 2, and Karin Giblin.

  • Contents (1)
  • Logan's Run (film & music score reviews by Sandy Stone) (2) ("Can you spend 12 million dollars on a film, have great sets, a fine musical score, good actors, and yet still lay an egg? Yes.")
  • Dean Williams (fiction by Kathryn A. Wendt) (4)
  • Jesco von Puttkamer - Space Scientist at Oakland Con (6)
  • Star Tracking (7)
  • Too Many of Him (fiction by Stephen H. Lampen) (8)
  • F.O.T.G. - review by Stephen Lampen and Bill Deen of the movie "Food of the Gods" (10)
  • Puzzle (13)
  • The Long Afternoon of Earth - Book Review (by Cliff and Kathy Kunkle) (14)
  • Super 8 Film-Maker - Review (by Sashi Hughes) (15)
  • The Mirror Revisited (Star Trek fiction by Stephen H. Lampen) (17)
  • Earthling I Presume, poem by Shirley E. Logan (18)
  • Poetry (by Judith Lorraine Davidson and Kathryn A. Wendt) (19)
  • Fanzine Reviews (20)
    • "Spicey 2" ("The fanzine review section smacked of a group of friends gathered together to congratulate and pat each other on the back.")
    • All My Crewmen, see that page
    • IDIC #1, see that page
    • "The Galactic Review"
  • Solaris - Movie Review by Steve Lampen (21)
  • Answer to June 30 Puzzle
  • Enter the Zirconions (comic) (22)
  • Bits & Pieces (28)

V.2 N.5/6

Bellerophon v.2 n.5/6 covered the period of October–December 1976 and contains 38 pages.

front cover of v.2 n.5/6, Karin Giblin
back cover of v.2 n.5/6, uncredited

The art is by Karin Giblin, Wayne Santos, William Bow, Sandy Stone, Daphne Smith, and Alex Hochstraser.

The editor writes:

We apologize for this issue being so late. Our convention which was held in December sort of took the wind out of our sails as far as creating Bellerophon went. We have tried to put as much into this issue as possible -- hopefully you will not be disappointed.

The February issue is already in the works and will be available (barring any problems arising) the first week of March. Thank you for your support of our fanzine. We appreciate all of the kind words (and criticism). Please feel free to tell us what you would like to see in Bellerophon and we will try to accommodate the requests.

  • Contents (1)
  • The Rotting of the Urchins (fiction in script-form by Albert Hilliard-Hughes) (2)
  • The Time Traveller (comic) (7)
  • Star Trek Word Game (13)
  • Poetry (14)
  • Feed Me (fiction by Steve Lampen) (16)
  • Hugo Awards Announced (19)
  • Star Trek Motion Picture Poll
  • Outworld Bestiary (written and illustrated by Daphne Smith) (20)
  • An Interview with DeForest Kelley (22)
  • Star Trek Movie to be Directed by San Franciscan (23)
  • Photo Spot (24)
  • Untitled (fiction by Alex Hochstraser) (25)
  • Key to August Puzzle (26)
  • Fantastic Journey Preview (27)
  • Space Shuttle - A Look Into The Future (28)
  • Star Wars Preview (29)
  • Bits and Pieces - Star Tracking (30)

V.2 N.7

Bellerophon v.2 n.7 was published in 1977 (month not specified; the submission deadline for the next issue is April) and contains 37 pages.

front cover of v.2 n.7, Karin Giblin
back cover of v.2 n.7, Karin Giblin

The art is by Karin Giblin, Pet, Anita Stone, and William Bow. The editor writes: "This is beginning to look like a Giblin Special -- aren't there any other artists out there who would like to contribute to Bellerophon!"

  • Contents (1)
  • Convention Report - Space-Con 3 (2)
  • One and One is Two (fiction by Mike Bubrick) (4)
  • Illegal Sale of Star Trek Films (8)
  • Dragons and Kings (poem by Anita Stone) (10)
  • Movie Reviews - "Demon" and "Wizards" (by Stephen Lampen) (12)
  • Up-Coming Conventions (13)
  • We All Fall (fiction by Dean Estes) (14)
  • The Coming of the Darku...The Mind Killer (comic) (15)
  • Poetry (22)
  • I'm All Ears (fiction by Stephen Lampen) (23)
  • Photos from "Fantastic Journey" (29)
  • Bits & Pieces - Awards (32)

V.2 N.8

Bellerophon v.2 n.8 was published in 1977 and contains 26 pages. It was edited by Judith Aho.

front cover of v.2 n.8
back cover of v.2 n.8
  • Table of Contents (1)
  • I Am In Control, fiction by Stephen Lampen (2)
  • Illustration (4)
  • We Get Letters (5)
  • Fan Items (5)
  • New Star Trek Book (5) ("Meaning in Star Trek" by Karin Blair, uses Jungian concepts to examine the interrelationships between "Star Trek" and its viewers)
  • World Child, fiction by Stephen Lampen (7)
  • Television Viewing (10) (television station contact information)
  • Convention Report (11) ("Douglas Wright's Science Fiction Fantasy and Horror Convention over Easter weekend at the Los Angeles Marriott attempted to fill the void left by Trimbles' cancelled Equicon: Filmcon, the creme-de-creme of fan cons, but Wright's convention was a sorry shadow of what con goers have come to expect.")
  • We Win (11) (a blurb about "a new version of Star Trek" created by Paramount)
  • Puzzle (12)
  • Klaatu (15)
  • Orbit Wars, non-fiction by Steve Schenkofsky (16)
  • Spectre (18)
  • Upcoming Conventions (19)
  • 21 Photos from Star Wars (20)
  • One and One is Two (conclusion), fiction by Mike Burbrick (22)
  • Sylvia (23)
  • Bits and Pieces (26)
  • art by Wayne Santos (front cover and interior), Karin Giblin (back cover and interior) , Alex Hochstraser, Carol Anderson

Reactions and Reviews: V.2 N.8

I am rather disappointed with this issue of Bellerophon. Writing is fair, sometimes even bad. It was advertised on the cover that there was Star Wars material, and all there was of that were four poorly reduced pictures. There was a somewhat inter esting article on the possibility of spacial war between the US and USSR, but there was little else of note. A full page crossword puzzle took up more room than it warranted: two full pages of clues! The comic strip that usually appeared in the zine was missing, and quite frankly, the only redeeming quality of this particular issue is in: l) Karen Giblin's art, and 2) the "Bits and Pieces" column. Other than that, I really don't know, I have seen better issues put out by Star Klique, so I assume that this issue was just one of the duds that occasionally come out of fandom when all is not well. LAYOUT: 3 CONTENT: 2 OVERALL RATING: 5 [4]

V.3 N.13

Bellerophon v.3 n.13 was published in 1977 and contains 30 pages. The editor was Judith Aho.

front cover of issue #13, Sandy Stone
back cover of issue #13, Karin Gilbin

The art is by Karin Giblin, Bill Bow, Sandy Stone, and Alka.

The editorial:

STAMP OUT STAR TREK

said the button, and I felt a coldness, Stamp Out Star Trek - why? Because of Star Wars? How can you compare the two? Star Trek was a successful television series - with limitations not only technically but limited because of the medium and network pressures. i*m sure if you took Gene Roddenberry to a screening of star wars and asked him to list the things you are seeing on the screen he wanted to do but coulo not because of network pressures or money limitations the list would be very impressive.

Let's re-examine Star Trek. How many of you have benefitted from Star Trek? I don't mean monetarily - although that has been done too. I mean, how many friends do you have that you never would have met? How many of you started to write, draw, design, etc, just because of Star Trek? How many of you came out of your shells and met people who were like you, and you felt like you belonged? Not like before when people thought you were different. Now there was some way you could really communicate with other people on a mutual plane.

Another button says "Star Trek Wars" with the Trek crossed out. Why can't there be room for both of them. Granted - Star Warsis an exceptional film. It is already a classic and will be remembered and reshown for years to come. It has set a precedent for other science fiction films yet to be made. But where is the character development and interplay that was possible on Star Trek. So far it does NOT EXIST. It will in future movies. But right now that is the one thing the movie lacks that Star Trek had.

We have been teased by the Gods many times about THE STAR TREK MOVIE. At last it seemed like a reality and then once again we were fooled-no movie -now a series would be in the offering. If Paramount had been quicker on the draw, they would have had the impact with the Star Trek movie that went to Star Wars. Star Wars is a tough act to follow - apparently someone at Paramount decided to at least get the corner on the television market with a proven product. too bad - "what might have been". Now there are rumors that the series will never take place and if it does, will not have the original stars it is obvious that many of us feel "Don't talk to me about it anymore until it is something real and concrete and i can see with my own eyes!"

Perhaps the Enterprise will not fly again. Perhaps it is a blessing. I don't t know. My desire to see new voyages of the Enterprise is tempered with my fear of a sloppy shadow of the original.

So, enjoy Star Wars, you should - it' a wonderful film. But, if we are going to Stamp Out Star Trek, then maybe we should stamp out Forbidden Planet or The Day the Earth Stood Still; because they can't measure up to the technology of Star Wars.

Peace!

  • Editorial, the topics are Star Trek vs Star Wars, and the Star Trek movie that can't get off the ground, by Judith Aho (2)
  • Close Encounters of the Third Kind, article about cast, plot (3)
  • Diversions & Delights with Vincent Price, article by Steve Schenkofsky (7)
  • The Demise of Space: 1999, essay by Kathy and Clifford Runkle ("Fred Freiberger has struck again! It wasn't enough that he utterly ruined Star Trek's final season with banalities. He had to do it again with Space: 1999's second second.") (8)
  • Sandy's Toy, fiction by Bill Bow (original science fiction) (10)
  • We Love Star Wars, essay by Anita Stone (14)
  • The Long Hallway, original science fiction by Steve Lampen (22)
  • We Get Letters, LoCs (24)
  • The Tunnels, original fantasy fiction by Heather Margaret Kerns, age 9 (does not appear in the table of contents) (25)
  • Bits & Pieces (26)
  • Lord of the Rings News, article by Linda Whitten about the upcoming movie by Ralph Bakshi (27)
  • World Child, original science fiction by Steve Lampen (28)

V.3 N.14

Bellerophon v.3 n.14 was printed in December 1977 and contains 26 pages.

front cover of v.3 n.14, Anita Stone
back cover of v.3 n.14, Karin Giblin

Art by Linda Whitten, Anita Stone, Karen Giblin, Bijov, and Carl Cordini.

  • World Child, part three, fiction by Stephen Lampen (2)
  • The Trekking Trekker by Alex Hochstraser (4) (short bit about the differences and cuts in the Star Trek episodes shown on cable in different cities)
  • film review: "Damnation Alley" by Steve Schenkofsky (5)
  • Variety Reports (6)
  • We Get Letters (7) (sole content is an interesting letter from Gene Roddenberry about his talks with Leonard Nimoy about both a future “Star Trek” TV series with the old cast and the production of a 2nd Star Trek movie, see To Fellow Nimoy-Spock Fans)
  • Tribblets by Linda Whitten
  • Aborjil by Linda Whitten
  • Alphabet Soup, or The Place of S.W. and C.E.3.K. in S.F. Films by Steve Schenkofsky (14)
  • Tribblets by Linda Whitten (17)
  • Showscan, The Next Gimmic [sic] by Albert H. Hugues (18) (perhaps reprinted from something called "S.F. Chronicle")
  • Red Alert by John Hedstrom (20) (a fan urges other to write letters to Jimmy Carter and NASA in support of a Haley's Comet Probe)
  • Bits and Pieces (22)

V.3 N.15

Bellerophon v.3 n.3 was published is undated, but published in 1978, and contains 30 pages. The art is by Karin Gilbin. This issue was edited by Judy Aho.

front cover of issue #15, uncredited artist
back cover of issue #15, Planet of the Apes
  • Contnets (1)
  • We Get Letters, a reprint of a very long, detailed form letter (no date) and a shorter one (March 28, 1978) by Gene Roddenberry that were printed in many fanzines. The subject of the first was was the decline and rise and decline of Paramount's plan for a new Star Trek series, a Star Trek movie.... Roddenberry specifically mentions Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Star Wars as reviving the publics' interest in science fiction and propelling a Star Trek movie as being viable. The second letter by Roddenberry talks about how Paramount is now going to do the movie. Included is a very long press Paramount Press release. (2)
  • Octocon 2, announcement of this con (5)
  • The Dinosaurs, poem by Conrad Watson (5)
  • We Get Letters, a very long political letter asking fans to support "to see our civilization expand off-planet" by means of expanded space programs and specifically the Satellite Solar Power Station Prototype (7)
  • Star Wars Sequel, info about the second movie (8)
  • Attention: Space Modelers by Steve Schenkofsky & Hochstraser (9)
  • Star Wars Models - Photos (11)
  • Bits & Piece's (12)
  • The Cylinder, original science fiction by Steve Schenkofsky (16)
  • The Martian, poem by Conrad Watson (19)
  • Kirk Alyn, The Original Superman, article by Dona Kerns (20)
  • World Child, original science fiction by Steve Lampen (conclusion) (23)

V.3 N.16

Bellerophon v.3 n.16 is undated, but was published in 1978, and contains 42 pages.

front cover of issue #16, Wayne Santos
back cover of issue #16, Wayne Santos
full cover of issue #16

The art is by Wayne Santos, Karin Gilbin, Linda Whitten, Steve Schenkofsky, Claire Griese, Alex Hochstraser, Sandy Stone.

From the editorial:

Welcome to Volume 3 #16 of Bellerophon. Witn this issue, we are drastically changing not only the "look" of the magazine, but the content as well. In the days before the prozines, such as Starlog, fanzines attempted to bring news to the fans about upcoming films, reviews, interviews, etc. Now, however, it is no longer possible for us to compete with a monthly publication. By the time our fanzine arrives at your door, some of our news is already stale.

However, the demand for fan-oriented fiction continues. Our goal is to bring as much fiction to you as possible, illustrated by fan artwork. We encourage authors to give us an idea of what kind of illustrations they want to go with their stories. We would like to run one main piece of artwork along with small illustrations accompanying each story. Of course, we are also still interested in individual pieces of fan artwork as well.

Starting with this issue, we will be publishing Bellerophon on a quarterly schedule. This will allow us to produce a larger, higher quality 'zine containing longer stories and more artwork. In the next issue we'll be letting you know the revised subscription rates.

  • Contributor's Bios (2)
  • The War, original science fiction, meta piece (with a tiny Star Trek twist at the end) by Steve Lampen, reprinted from v.2 n.2 (3)
  • Bits and Pieces, news (6)
  • The Journal of Commander Maratta, Star Wars fiction by Steve Schenkofsky (7)
  • Centerfold: Star Trek: The Motion Picture, consists of some publicity photos
  • The Feel of Space, original science fiction, explicit, featuring perhaps tentacle sex by Tansy Ragwort (22)
  • Janor Who by Doyle/Morris (27)
  • Mad Duel by Conrad Watson (36)

V.17

Bellerophon 17 was published in January 1980 and contains 34 pages. It was edited by Judy and Steve Schenkofsky.

front cover of issue #17, Al de la Rosa
back cover of issue #17, Steve Le Clair

The art is by Carol Anderson (inside front cover, interior), Al de la Rosa (front cover, inside back cover, interior), Alex Hochstraser, Steve Le Clair, Yvex Sartre, Steve Swenston.

  • The Lady and the Dragon by Judith L. Davidson
  • Editorial, We Get Letters (2)
  • A Dark Time in Carnival, a comic by Steve Le Clair (3)
  • Xmas Story #93,638 by Alex Hochstraser (13)
  • The Microcosmic Style, a Writers' Guide by R. Faraday Nelson (14)
  • Bio, Lucy Buss. Record Review - "Greatest Science Fiction Hits" (15)
  • Artists Coerner (16)
  • The Fairy Ring by Lucy Buss (18)
  • Space Music by Steve Lampen (23)
  • Bio, Al de la Rosa (25)
  • Starship Design - blueprints by James Ellison (26)
  • Coming Attractions - blueprints by Alex Hochstraser (29)
  • Dream House by Steve Lampen (very early and rare Star Trek RPF — in the story, Shatner, Doohan and Kelley are involved in tense negotiations over whether to appear in the new Star Trek movie. They wake up on the Starship Enterprise in the year 2241. After encountering a Klingon battle cruiser, the terrified actors are more than willing to accept the roles. Reprinted from Archives' Log in 1974.) (30)
  • Twas the Knight, Star Wars Poem by Bonnie Frank (34)

V.18

Bellerophon 18 was published in February 1981 and contains 51 pages. It was edited by Steve Schenkofsky and Judy Schenkofsky.

front cover of issue #18
back cover of issue #18

The art is by John Alexander, Al de la Rosa, Claire Griese, Juliet Hamak, Steve Mills, Eric Minor, Sandy Stone, Steve Swenston, Tracy (Tanna), and Mauel A. Vazquez.

The Circle, poem by Donald Kerns (inside front cover)

  • Marzook and Mooglick by Stephen H. Lampen (2)
  • Meeting the Challenge by David Gerrold (6)
  • Project Cyclops by Clark McDonald (9)
  • The Key, a comic, art and story by Al de la Rosa, script and dialogue by Steve le Clair, and lettering by Roger Brand (10)
  • On the Set: Dracula's Disciple by Judy Schenkofsky (22)
  • An Interview with George Takei by Steve Schenkofsky (24)
  • General Plans, ship blueprints by Alex Hochstraser (26)
  • Alien Values by Lucy B. Buss (29)
  • Unreality at Large by Connie Stanley (36)
  • Who is the Other by Dona Kerns, Cynthia Taylor, and Alice Aho (37)
  • Artists' Corner (40)

V.19

Bellerophon 19 was published in February 1982 and contains 79 pages.

cover issue #19

The art is by Cliff Bishop, Dave Caldwell, Donna Chess, Al de la Rosa, Norman Felchle, Claire Griese, Alex Hochstraser, Dave Kottas, Al Labo, Dwayne Macadangdang, Mike McCarthy, Eric Minor, Greg Murphy, Mary Soderstrom, Tracy.

  • Tech by Teresa Sarick (inside front cover)
  • Editorial, Jackbook Fandom (the trend towards "morbid science fiction" and the wearing of heavy weapons in cosplay at cons) (2)
  • Steve LeClair: A Remembrance by Al de la Rosa (13)
  • Museum Piece by Al de la Rosa (11)
  • Steve Swenston, a Portfolio (20)
  • Marvelous Puzzle by Connie Stanley (28)
  • Power Corrupts by Greg Murphy (30)
  • Consequence of a Challenge by Charlotte Davis (40)
  • Contemplation by Norman Felchle (54)
  • The Creatures and Features of John Stanley by Steve Schenkofsky (58)
  • Galactican Problems, article by H.E. Noble (Battlestar Galactica) (61)
  • Artists' Corner (62)
  • A Touch of Logic by Mark Crispin (75)
  • I Am the Co-Pilot by A. Stone (inside back cover)

Reactions and Reviews: Issue 19

To go into detail about the contents of this 76-page tome would fill this entire column, so I'd like to hit just a couple of the highlights.

The contents are quite varied, as you might expect. There is fiction, art, strips, and even a Marvel Comics crossword puzzle. The fiction ranges from straight science fiction to Star Trek fiction and Star Wars poetry.

There is even an interesting little article about problems the Battlestar Glactica crew might have faced upon landing on Earth (which would have made the program interesting and watchable if the producers had taken the time to consider the possibilities as H.E. Nobel does in his article). For me, however, the high point of the issue is the art work.

Three sections of the 'zine are devoted solely to art and they are all quite impressive. The first is a portfolio of work by Steve LeClair, a contributor and friend of the BELLEROPHON family who died recently at age 22. Although the art isn't as slick and polished as some, it shows great talent and potential. It is a shame to lose someone before he has realized the fullness of his talent, but it is wonderfully touching that his friends have given him such a loving tribute.

Second is an excellent selection of Conanesque art by Steve Swenston. Steve's work is full of detail and surprises and shows his potential to become one of the finest illustrators in the SF and fantasy field.

The third art section is the Artists' Corner, which gives everybody a chance for exposure, whether the art is intricately rendered or not. This is an unbiased showcase.

Another artistic nod should go to Al De La Rosa, whose front cover art and art direction for the entire 'zine contribute enormously to its quality.

My only complaint about the entire package is the strip that occupies eight pages near the center of the book, "Power Corrupts" by Greg Murphy. Call me foolish, but I can't make head nor tail of this one. It seems to be set in a funny-animal universe where amphibians (frogs and the like) are the dominant life form. The story begins with no explanation of this, however (although I may be coming in on a continuing series), and proceeds to a conclusion that concludes nothing and gives no hint as to whether it will be continued in future issues. Super-powered frogs are fine, but please give me some idea of what's going on so I can enjoy the story.

Minor complaints aside, though, I can recommend this beautifully produced effort fully. What makes it even more pleasurable to recommend. aside from its quality, is the fact that profits from the sales of BELLEROPHON are used to support the Children's Brain Diseases Foundation and The Motion Picture and Television Fund. This isn't just entertainment and exposure for talented fans, it's an effort to help out in a world where help is too often hard to find. This one deserves everyone's support. [5]

V.20

Bellerophon 20 was published in Autumn 1983 and contains 70 pages.

front cover issue #20
back cover issue #20, Norman Felchle

The art is by Kirk Bath, Cliff Bishop, Mark Bode, Kim Carnes, Al De La Rosa, Kirk Durfey, Norman Felchle, Irene Hochstraser, Lynn-Harriet Lay, Mike McCarthy, Greg Murphy, Roger D. Norton, G. Phillips, Jay Stewart, Mary Soderstrom, Mark Strahin, and Steven Swenston. The art is only identified by signatures, and not specified in the table of contents which makes it difficult to determine attribution.

  • Terminus by Alma Hendick
  • Editorial by Staff (2)
  • The Unmasking by Shannon Bryony (4)
  • Contemplation, part 2, number 1 by Norman Felchle (12)
  • Power Corrupts, part 2 by Greg Murphy (14)
  • 10 Minutes by George W. Smyth (22)
  • Space Models: Wrath of the Conned, Or: Space Confessions, articles by Steve Schenkosky (24)
  • Bios (Mark and Shannon) (26)
  • Ghost of a Chance by Dave Smeds (two versions, designed to show how editing works) (27)
  • The Hobbier by Gary Lovisi (34)
  • Sci-Fi: Facts About Fiction, crossword puzzle by Dawn Goto (38)
  • Contemplation, part 3 number 2 by Norman Felchile (39)
  • Cat, fiction by Al De La Rosa (40)
  • The Experiment by Matthew Todd (50)
  • Artists Corner (52)
  • Nightmare, poem by Connie Stanley (60
  • Inspired by the Hugos by Foundations Edge (62)
  • Conversations Overheard by Sober, Sensitive Ears, fiction by Laura Be (63)
  • Light Riders by Alma Hendrick

References

  1. ^ K/S & K.S. (Kindred Spirits) #18
  2. ^ from Stardate #8
  3. ^ from Stardate #9
  4. ^ from a review in The Clipper Trade Ship #17, (the scale: Layout is from 1-5, Overall Effect is from 1-10)
  5. ^ from Jim Bertges in the October 7 1982 issue of the Comic Buyers Guide, reprinted in the editorial of "Bellerophon" #20