Communications Console (Star Trek newsletter)

You may also be looking for the adzine Communications Console.

Zine
Title:	Communication Console (often shortened to "ComCon" -- not to be confused with Con Com)
Publisher:	Allies for Star Trek
Editor(s):	Debbie Gilbert (1980s), Barbara Adams (1980s), Jean Ann Hodge (1985), Chris B. Roberts (1987)
Type:	letterzine
Date(s):	1975 to 2000s
Frequency:	bi-monthly for many years, became quarterly in the 1990s
Medium:	print
Fandom:	Star Trek: TOS, much about each film as they came out, and later Star Trek: TNG
External Links:
Click here for related articles on Fanlore.

Communications Console (often referred to as "ComCon") was a newsletter published by a Memphis, Tennessee club called Allies for Star Trek, which was originally begun as college activity for Memphis State.

Its focus was Star Trek: TOS, each film as they came out, and later Star Trek: TNG.

The fan club began in 1975 and remained active until the mid-2000s.

Summary

From a fan in summer 1982:

Everything you've ever wanted to know about Star Trek before it happens! Up-to-date ST news and con information hot-off-the-wire... Star Trek is getting bigger and better than ever!... ComCon is published bi-monthly and runs about 25 pages. It's crammed full of ST articles, short stories, poetry, and artwork... ComCon is more like a minizine than a newsletter."

Many Issues Had the Eyes and Ears of TPTB

Susan Sackett and Gene Roddenberry received issues of this newsletter.

one example of an issue sent to Gene Roddenberry, the Nov/Dec 1984 issue

Copies of reviews, such as the one for the Star Trek pro novel, "Strangers from the Sky," were sent to their authors. From the Nov/Dec 1987 issue - a letter from Margaret Wander Bonanno:

(Written to Com Con columnist Debbie Gilbert) "Thank you so much for your lovely note and your most complimentary review of Strangers from the Sky (Sept-Oct Com Con). I know how difficult it is to please a fan audience; your review indicates I have succeeded. Also, I could not have been more pleased with the way you synopsized this 402 page behemoth,in two succinct and precise paragraphs, while including mention of the 'inside jokes' as well as the 'big stuff'. My compliments on your insight. My next Trek endeavor, if there is one, will be a sequel to Dwellers in the Crucible, my first Trek novel. Now if I can only come up with a plot..."

Oct 1975

Communications Console Oct 1975 This first issue was edited by Chris Bradford.

Sept/Oct 1982

Communications Console Sept/Oct 1982

• contains a review of Visions #1
• contains a review of Eternal Triangle #1 and #2
• other unknown content

Jan/Feb 1983

Communications Console Jan/Feb 1983 It was dedicated to Susan Sackett.

first page of the Jan/Feb 1983 issue

It contains much news about the actors and their current endeavors, newspaper and magazine clippings, reviews of various pro Star Trek books, booster-ism for the upcoming movie and Lincoln Enterprises.

It also has a bunch of club news, a poem by Melissa (Mele) Lee, short con ads, small illos, a very unflattering illustration of two Star Trek fans by Annette Taylor, a financial reporting for the club, and a membership roster that includes addresses and phone numbers.

One clipping is called "Discover of Rare Network Brochure Exposes Attempt to "Exorcise" Mr. Spock." The topic is the Paramount pamphlet called "Advanced Information on 1966-67 Programming: Star Trek," and early ideas, pitches, and revisions to the concept of the show.

A very happy New Year to all ALLIES! Things look bright on the horizon for fans with the fast approaching start date for ST III. And while news is still very slow, we anticipate the pace to quicken drastically within a very short time.

We'd like to take a moment to dedicate this issue of Com-Con to Susan Sackett. Everyone is aware of Susan's efforts on behalf of fans. Too often it may be that fans take her and her efforts for granted. In the past few weeks, we have learned that there has been serious illness within Susan's immediate family, making it necessary for her to spend considerable time away from the office. With the pressures of family, work, and a newly published book, we know that these recent days have not been easy ones for her.

Our thoughts and prayers have been much with her, and we are sure all of you will want to join us in sending our love and support to someone who has proven such a dear friend to all of us. Much love, Susan!

And a very special hello to our "favorite fellow". Gene Roddenberry, who has been minding the store in Susan's absence...

Everyone had a ball at the showing of 16mm episodes in November at the Main Branch Library. Emily Ross and Franke Jackson from Nashville were able to join in on the festivities and we're glad they could make it. Thanks go to Harold Feldman and Terry LeCroix for manning the projector and to the Bauers-Lauren and Jenny and Coxes-Anna and Henry, as well as Inge Bryant for "munchies". It was Terry and Franke's birthday, so it was a double-dose of good times and friends...

Those ALLIES who will be participating in the musical, "THE PLANET SPOCK" , should contact Jean Ann no later than the February 26th showing of episodes. Rehearsals begin in March. We will need a rough schedule of your work hours, school hours, etc, in order to coordinate rehearsal times. Scripts of the play will be available for reading after January 28th.

Carol Oswalt-Marsh and Jean Ann Hodge will be attending Love of Trek '83 in February. Anyone in Memphis, or along the Memphis-St. Louis-Kansas City-Omaha route wishing to share the ride and/or room should contact Jean Ann or Carol as soon as possible. (This trip will be contingent on weather conditions.) Thanks!

Lincoln Enterprises fans will be in for a pleasant surprise early in the new year. Majel Barrett-Roddenberry and her company will be introducing a brand-new catalog of merchandise for sale to ST fans. Included will be a ton new merchandise, along with the old favorites. One special item to look for is a selection of 10 color posters available, all copies of original work by Douglas Little, an ALLIES member from New Jersey. (Doug, as you will recall, had his work featured on the cover of KIRK, a fanzine by WISHpress. Doug states of KIRK. "I'm deeply honored to have my pastel drawing of Admiral Kirk on the cover of the KIRKzine first issue. I'm deeply honored again, in having such an important publication announced in the Communications Console by focusing on my drawing.") The 10 works are part of a collection of 21 drawings that Majel has commissioned and received from Doug over the last two years. We thank Doug and Mrs. Roddenberry for permission to relay this important news on to you, and know you join us in anxiously awaiting the new catalog's release. (Note: If any of you are serious collectors of ST art, you will want to add some of Doug's to your collection. He does work on commission, and you may contact him at the address listed in the membership roster enclosed this issue. Please send an SASE. Thanks!)

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1983 issue

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1983 issue, a very unflattering illustration of two Star Trek fans, Annette Taylor

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1983 issue

March/April 1983

Communications Console Mar/Apr 1983 and contains 28 pages.

front cover of the Mar/Apr 1983 issue: design by Annette Taylor, Starship/Shuttle logo: Terry LeCroix

back cover of the Mar/Apr 1983 issue, Annette Taylor, Nimoy the director vs Spock the character

It contains interior art by Annette Taylor.

A new printing plan for the newsletter:

Before you rush over to Dr. McCoy's for a dose of Retinax-Five, let me assure you --- your eyes are not failing you; this issue of COM CON does look different. Having resolved this, you might decide that this occurrence can only be attributed to more "delusions of grandeur" in Jean Ann's and Inge's warped minds. Again, let me assure you that this is only a TRIAL issue. Why? Well, because -1. We wanted to get a lot of flack from those out there who will say they need a magnifying glass to read this; 2. We wanted to give the photo-copier at least a one-issue rest from over four straight hours of copying; and last, but most definitely not least 3. We wanted to prove our mathematical equations correct in showing that we can now have the newsletter printed as cheaply as photocopying because of increased volume (there's more of you!) and postage savings because of reduced print.

[...]

And if this printing experiment works, Inge and I will have no fears when the Klingons in their white jackets come for us, because we know a continued "quality" newsletter will insure the retention of the out-of-town members that we value. The combination of loyal local plus satisfied out-of-town members will insure the future for the news- letter and the club. Allies will not dependent on anyone for access to equipment. For if a future editor does a competent job, even a Tribble can send the newsletter to the printer! It's a goal Inge and I have worked for, one we're glad to see being achieved, especially since we just received our notice of scheduled rehabilitation on ELBA II!

EDITOR'S NOTE: WE HAVE JUST SEEN NOTIFIED THAT GENE RODDENBERRY WILL BE UNABLE TO ATTEND SPACE-TREK II. FOR FANS, SUCH AS INGE AND I, WHO GENE RODDENBERRY AND SUSAN SACKETT AT THE VERY TOP OF OUR FAVORITE'S LIST, THIS WAS VERY SADDENING HEWS. WE CAN ONLY HOPE THE OPPORTUNITY AVAILS ITSELF FOR US TO SEE GENE AND/OR SUSAN IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

• editorial (2)
• updates on the third Star Trek film (3)
• updates on the next Space Trek (Joining Walter Koenig and James Doohan will be Leonard Nimoy. However, Gene Roddenberry will not be able to attend.) (3)
• Trek Tidbits (Trek and Trek actors in the news) (4)
• review of Black Fire, see that page (11)
• Trivia Quiz (all about this fan club and its members) (11)
• Star Strokes (a review of the zine, Kirk, see that page) (13)
• a con report for Tulsa Star Trek - 83, see that page (15)
• Gene Roddenberry appears at "Mizzou," by Phyllis Sutter (a report about Roddenberry's lecture at The University of Missouri on February 10, 1983) (17)
• Hooray for Live [sic] of Trek, con report by Phyllis Sutter (Love of Trek February 11-13, 1983 in Omaha) (17)
• Love of Trek '83 Con Report (or, "The Night Linda Slept with De's Coat") by Jean Ann Hodge (Love of Trek February 11-13, 1983 in Omaha) (19)
• Star Trekking With Scotty by Phyllis Sutter (a report about James Doohan's lecture on February 14th at the University of Omaha, following Love of Trek) (21)
• Poet's Corner: "Designer Gene" ("You've heard of designer shirts, designer perfume, designer jewelry... Melissa Lee offers a different kind of "Designer Gene," dedicated to the one who first dreamed the ST dream." (22)
• The Nightmare, fan fiction by Melissa (Mele) Lee ("a haunting story about a "nightmarish" possible aftermath of ST II") (22)
• answers to the trivia quiz (26)

• 

  from the Mar/Apr 1983 issue, book review, trivia quiz

• 

  from the Mar/Apr 1983 issue, illo by Annette Taylor, trivia quiz

• 

  from the Mar/Apr 1983 issue, illo by Annette Taylor

• 

  interior art by Annette Taylor

• 

  fanfiction from Melissa Lee

May/June 1983

Communications Console May/June 1983 contains 16 pages.

front cover of the May/June 1983 issue, design by Annette Taylor, Starship/Shuttle logo: Terry LeCroix

Many thanks to all of you for your overwhelming positive response to our change in format. Although a few of you still prefer the 8 1/2 X 11 format, most of you have written to say you prefer the ease and convenience of the smaller booklet, especially when it comes to easy storage of the newsletter.

A special word of thanks is due this issue to Tom Bauer, for his invaluable ass1stance in providing me with proportion scales. Thanks to h1s timely assistance, we are now preparing the newsletter on 8 1/2 x 14 sheets, instead of 8 1/2 x 11. What this means is that we are getting more news in less space. We are actually getting the equ1valent of about 20 pages on 16 pages, the equivalent of 26 pages in 20 pages, etc. This is an additional savings in printing for us, but it also gives us the freedom to go over the 24 page length should someth1ng important arise. (This issue however, we actually go under the 24 page length.)

From the book review of biographies by William Rotsler:

The lives of the seven major characters are documented using excerpts from letters, diaries, histories" Starfleet reports, etc. Rotsler's attention to detail makes it all seem plausible and authentic. However, one must remember that it is the product of the author's imagination and should not be accepted as canon. Many fans will disagree with the way he has filled in certain informational blank spaces. For example, he gives Uhura the first name "Nyota". He's within his rights to do so, because no one really knows her full name, but in fandom we've generally adopted the appellation "Penda". Rotsler made up other names as well, but I noticed he didn't have the courage to tackle Spock's first name.

• Newsletter News (about page size and fonts, some thank yous) (2)
• Star Trek III Update (3)
• Trek Tidbits (Trek in the news, quotes from clippings, con announcements, mentions of Memphis Fantasy Con and Memphis Film Festival, mention of ArkCon) (3)
• Star Strokes (reviews of books and fanzines: "Star Trek Distress Call, "Star Trek II Short Stories," and "Star Trek II Biographies" (pro books), Indian Summer and Other Seasons (fanzine).) (6)
• Star Trek 1½: ABC's Version of ST: The Motion Picture, commentary by Debbie Gilbert (about the showing of Star Trek: The Motion Picture as it was shown (re-edited and added footage) on television) (This review is also in TREKisM #29, and later, TREKisM at Length #5.) (8)
• a very negative review by Howard Cross of the pro-book, Triangle (reprinted from the Chattanooga News Free Press, April 10, 1983) (10)
• a review by Anna Maria Avolio (from Rome, Italy) of Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan, see that page (11)
• con report for Galactic Enterprise III by Jean Ann Hodge, see that page (12)
• Contemplation, fan fiction by Jean Ann Hodge (Scotty-centric) (13)

• 

  from the May/June 1983 issue, Annette Taylor

• 

  from the May/June 1983 issue, Annette Taylor

July/Aug 1983

Communications Console July/Aug 1983 contains 20 pages.

cover of the July/Aug 1983 issue, design by Annette Taylor, Starship/Shuttle logo: Terry LeCroix

The art is by Annette Taylor.

Full of metaphors, the meta by Jeanie Peeples, "Reflections in a Broken Glass Slipper - Observations," appears to a address something disappointing in club politics, possibly centering on the very recent Space Con:

Allies' broken glass slippers reflect the morning sunlight as I add our latest broken slipper to the collection. Broken in a variety of ways, slipper's hideous edges ironically cast rainbows on the walls around me and I find myself wondering, why Allies cannot seem to keep even one glass slipper intact. Do we expect too much from these slippers of honesty, integrity, and truth? Are these slippers too frail to wear? Are they out of style? They certainly seem to be easily broken when confronted with the harsh realities of fandom. Why do we keep these shards of disappointment, frustration, and pain? The glass is sharp and easily cuts the skin no matter how carefully it is handled. wouldn't; it be easier to substitute an unbreakable slipper of selfishness, pretense, and falsehood? Such slippers seem more durable and long lasting. No, Allies could never wear the artificial glass slipper. Nor could we throw away the fragile remains of our old broken ones. Too many moments of value are reflected there. We remember the lessons painfully learned from these souvenirs and grow stronger in this knowledge. We see reflected in this new glass slipper the loving fans who so warmly received the play Allies worked so hard to give them, the new friends who joined our circle of camaraderie, and the depth of our love and caring for each other which is so often overlooked or taken for granted when the slipper is intact.

No, Allies could never settle for less. Crystal slippers are harder to wear but they reflect the light we have to share much better than plastic.

Comments by Emily Ross about two pro book reviews:

I found the book review in the last newsletter so unpalatable I felt I had to respond. Your 'professional reviewer' admires Black Fire for the same reasons I disliked it, and pans Triangle for the very qualities about it that I enjoyed!

"Black Fire" tumbles mindlessly from one improbable action sequence to another. I got bored and started flipping pages to see whether all this exercise was leading anywhere. It wasn't.

The book's main character is Spock, but you'd never know it if you weren't told. It's not so much that he's out of character as it is that there's no character there, just a cardboard figure going thru the notions.

Black Fire is flashy, but shallow, like a roller coaster ride, it goes nowhere, just leaves you sick at your stomach.

As for Triangle, Marshak and Culbreath are not, I admit, everyone's cup of tea. They do happen to be mine. The authors adore their protagonists, and they spend a lot of time just playing with them, body and mind, for the sheer pleasure of it. I'll go along with them, any time, whether they bother to throw in a plot or not!

• comments about the success of the skit, The Planet Spock (2)
• comments about Space Trek, including feeling disappointed and patronized by Leonard Nimoy's speech and Q&A (2)
• Star Trek III movie update (3)
• Trek Tidbits (Trek and the actors in the news, includes this short blurb: "Gene Roddenberry will be spending the summer working on his novel, "Report from Earth", which is about an alien named Gan and his observations of Earth cultures.") (3)
• a clipping from "The Commercial Appeal" May 20, 1983, called "Dream On, Trekkies" - includes a cartoon by Bill Day of Howard Cosell reporting from the Space Shuttle (5)
• comments by a fan about the two reviews by Howard Cross of Black Fire and Triangle that were in the previous issue (7)
• a review by Howard Cross of the pro book, Web of the Romulans, see that page (7)
• a blurb about ArkCon (9)
• Star Trekkin' with Scotty: Texarkana, Ark, a report by Regenia Marracino of James Doohan's lecture and Q&A on April 8, 1983
• Star Strokes: How to See Hollywood in Five Days on One Leg, report by Debbie Gilbert (visiting Hollywood to see William Shatner get his Hollywood Walk of Fame star, visiting with various fans including Vel Jaeger, going to a club meeting, going to a too-loud cocktail party, visiting the set of T.J. Hooker, going to an industry and club banquet with William and Marcy Shatner and Adrian Amed and his wife, getting lots of special favors because of Shatner's benevolence and "magic" voice...) (10)
• Space-Trek II: An Honest Critique, con report by Melissa Lee and Jeanie Peeples (14)
• I Never Promised You a Rose Garden: A Space Trek II Report by Melissa Lee (15)
• Reflections in a Broken Glass Slipper - Observations, meta with heavy metaphors, by Jeanie Peeples (topic is the club Allies for Star Trek and perseverance, dedicated to Annette Taylor "with love") (16)
• Newsletter Fund - Semi-Annual Financial Report for the Period Covering January-June 1983 (17)
• Summer Rain, fan fiction by Melissa Lee (17)

• 

  from the July/Aug 1983 issue, Annette Taylor

• 

  from the July/Aug1983 issue, club financials

Sept/Oct 1983

cover of the Sept/Oct 1983 issue design by Annette Taylor, Starship/Shuttle logo: Terry LeCroix

Communications Console Sept/Oct 1983 contains 24 pages.

The art is by Annette Taylor.

From the letter by Gene Roddenberry:

I am not very often speechless but certainly was on stepping into my office this morning and finding that enormous painting of myself looking down on me from where Susan hung it. Will certainly have to take it along with me if I am ever invited to May Day ceremonies in Red Square. Maybe since it has arrived before my birthday, we can hang it from our fourth floor office window on the 19th and see how the Paramount brass react. If anyone salutes, I guess we could be pretty certain that a person is a fan.

Thank you. That seems to be the safest thing to say and I really do appreciate all of you and the artist specifically going to all that trouble. Everyone says it is an excellent likeness, so compliments are in order on that too. As for what I will do with it, will have to depend upon staff, friends, and family for suggestions. Suggestions from enemies will be ignored in advance.

• A Touch of Class. con report by the editor for Starship Cincinnati, see that page (2)
• Star Trek II, movie update (3)
• Star Trek Tidbits (includes a clipping from Bristol Herald Courier about the fire at Paramount Studios that damaged Star Trek sets) (4)
• a letter dated August 16, 1983 from Gene Roddenberry to the members of Allies for Star Trek (It thanks them for the portrait of himself; it includes a short movie update. This portrait was titled "Tribute," and it was created by Annette Taylor. It was first displayed at Space Trek II.) (7)
• a letter dated August22, 1983 by Susan Sackett, address to the members of the fan club (about the portrait, and other newsy Star Trek items) (8)
• an outlandish clipping from possibly The National Enquirer (9)
• club contest announced (9)
• a puzzle by Don Rubin (reprinted from elsewhere) (10)
• Star Strokes, a review of Visions #2, see that page (11)
• Star Strokes, a review of Eternal Triangle #3, see that page (11)
• Star Strokes, a review of Kobayashi Maru , see that page (12)
• a review by Bill Seal of Susan Sackett and Cheryl Blythe (reprinted from the August 27, 1983 issue of TV Guide) (13)
• a short description of "ST Saturday," which was a minicon held in December 1981 at the "Main Library" (400 fans attended, it was free, there were episodes shown, the blooper reel, posters and fanzines for sale, and some NASA materials were shown: "It remains a precious memory for those of us who participated and who were "shocked" at the massive response.") (13)
• a con report for a mini-con, see Quincy Mini-Con (14)
• a con report for Shore Leave #5, see that page (14)
• a con report ("Nice Things Come in Small Packages") for Starship Cincinnati, see that page (14)
• Eternal Triangle, poem by Melissa Lee (dedicated to the editors of Eternal Triangle) (17)
• untitled fan fiction in script form by Laura Lee Kyro (a winner of the Space Trek II writing contest) (17)
• A Short Trek, fan fiction by S. Catherine Jones (reprinted from an unknown issue of JDIFC) (20)

• 

  from the Sept/Oct 1983 issue, letter from Gene Roddenberry thanking a fan for a portrait of himself, drawn by Annette Taylor.

• 

  from the Sept/Oct 1983 issue, letter from Susan Sackett, about the Roddenberry portrait

• 

  from the Sept/Oct 1983 issue, Annette Taylor

Nov/Dec 1983

Communications Console Nov/Dec 1983 contains 24 pages.

cover of the Nov/Dec 1983 issue design by Annette Taylor, Starship/Shuttle logo: Terry LeCroix

From the movie update:

One topic of interest with the fans that seems to be getting a lot of attention is the story surrounding Kirstie Alley's replacement in 3T III by New York model, Robin Curtis.

It seems that Kirstie's salary demands for the movie were 10 times her initial salary with Paramount Studios. Harve Bennett, in an Associated Press Release. had this to say, "It became clear that she wasn't going to come down to earth fiscally." and went on to say that Kirstie's salary demand would have placed her at a "plateau above all but the principal stars."

Steve Dontanville, Kirstie's agent, had this response. "We were insulted by their offer, so we countered very high. The demand was merely a bargaining ploy. They refused to move to a middle ground."

About the story, "Creature of the Night":

... [It] is in dire need of a few words of explanation for those of you who, after reading this will say, "What the heck is this all about?"

Many of you are aware that Joel Murdock portrayed Spock in our production, "The Planet Spock. Lauren Bauer portrayed the enchantress, Tinkerbell.

What you may not be aware of is that Lauren also appeared this summer in a production of "Dracula" at the Memphis Children's Theatre. Almost all of the cast of "The Planet Spock" attended the opening performance to cheer Lauren on. Almost immediately a new image popped into our minds: that of Joel as Spock-Dracula. It quickly became a running joke among our group. Obviously Mele (Melissa's nickname) took it a lot more seriously.

• Editorial (2)
• Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, update ("The above report could not have been compiled without the assistance of ED FINE, UNIT PUBLICIST, SUSAN SACKETT, The STW Newsletter (supplied graciously by Jeanie Peeples), INTERSTAT ASSOCIATED PRESS, Jeanne Powers, and anybody else that I forgot about.") (3)
• Trek Tidbits (5)
• a con report by Jeanne Powers about the 1983 RoVaCon (October 14-16, held in Roanoke, VA) at which George Takei was a guest, the comments are mostly about Takei's comments on Star Trek: The Search for Spock (8)
• Books (reviews and blurbs about pro books, including a long report of "Mutiny on the Enterprise" - "...it has adventure, if you don't mind the character flaws, but I found the flaws in this novel far out-weigh any good qualities I could find. I do have one question: if Vardeman could do a relatively good job with the characters in KLINGON GAMBIT, why couldn't he keep it up?") (9)
• Club Membership Roster as of October 1983 (includes full home addresses and phone numbers) (11)
• cartoon by Annette Taylor (15)
• Con Calendar (16)
• Star Strokes, reviews by Debbie Gilbert of The Making of Star Trek, On the Good Ship Enterprise: My Fifteen Years with Star Trek, The Best of Trek #6, "The Making of Return of the Jedi," "Skywalking: The Life and Films of George Lucas") (18)
• Stop the Galaxy, poem by Elizabeth (Beryl) Turton (19)
• Creature of the Night, fan fiction by Melissa Lee (20)
• Incident Report: Case Report #79-9082, fan fiction by Phyllis Langdon (21)
• cartoon by Annette Taylor (23)

• 

  from the Nov/Dev 1983 issue, cartoon by Annette Taylor

• 

  from the Nov/Dev 1983 issue, poem "Stop the Galaxy" by Elizabeth Turton

• 

  from the Nov/Dev 1983 issue, cartoon by Annette Taylor

• 

  from the Nov/Dev 1983 issue, Incident Report: Case Report #79-9082 by Phyllis Langdon

Jan/Feb 1984

Communications Console Jan/Feb 1984 contains 20 pages.

cover of the Jan/Feb 1984 issue, design by Annette Taylor, Starship/Shuttle logo: Terry LeCroix

Jean Ann Hodge and Inge Bryant are stepping down as club presidents, and Debbie Gilbert is stepping down as the columnist of "Star Strokes" to become the newsletter editor.

Jeanie Peeples and Joel Murdock step up to be the new co-presidents of the fan club.

Debbie Gilbert includes some comments about the last installment of her column, "Star Strokes." Her regrets about discontinuing this column are clear. Presumably, she can no longer have opinions because she is becoming the editor?:

It is with a great deal of sadness that I announce this as my final column for the newsletter. (All right now, cut that out! I can understand your sighs of relief, but the joyous rounds of applause at my departure I can do without.) Although the title "Star Strokes" often seemed to imply that I was "stroking" myself, I'd like to clarify what this column was really all about.

For the past three years I have faithfully submitted something to every issue (after, racing against a deadline and working around school and other obligations) because I felt I was providing a service to Star Trek fans.

I intended this feature to be a sort of Consumer Reports; a buyers guide to show you how to spend your Star Trek "allowance" wisely. If someone else does not step forward now to continue providing this service, our newsletter will be lacking in something I feel is important. As far as my personal view of the matter is concerned, I feel as though my vocal cords are being severed.

• Editorial (2)
• Membership Info, movie updates (3)
• Trek Tidbits (includes a con report for Sioux Empire Peace Trek) (4)
• The Doctor's Rx, essay by Davie (Bones) Jackson (his recollections about being in the play The Planet Spock) (6)
• Super Sulu, cartoon by Annette Taylor (7)
• My Weekend with Star Trek, a lengthy description by Vicki Holden of being given a multi-day tour of Paramount studio lots by Richard Arnold (8)
• a description of a trip to the Paramount Studio lot, by Dr. Marvin Bensman (printed on Memphis State University, Theatre and Communication Arts letterhead, dated October 24, 1983) (10)
• a review by Melissa Lee of for-profit Star Trek calendar (11)
• Memory Serves, fan fiction by Melissa Lee, includes an illo of David Marcus by the author (12)
• review of TREKisM at Length #3, see that page (16)
• review of Galactic Discourse #4, see that page (17)
• illo and farewell by the editor (18)
• club financial report (18)
• illo by Bauer (19)

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1984 issue by Annette Taylor

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1984 issue, fanfic and art by Melissa Lee

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1984 issue, Debbie Gilbert

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1984 issue, Sabina Bauer

March/April 1984

Communications Console March/April 1984 contains 20 pages. It was the first issue under a new editor, Debbie Gilbert.

The cover and interior art is by Annette Taylor and someone named James.

From the editorial:

There is but one universal constant —- change.

You hold in your hands the first issue of ComCon produced under its new editor, who through some quirk of fate happens to be me. As a friend of mine, the editor of TrekisM has told me, "things look a lot different from this aide of the desk". Reactions to the "changing of the guard" have ranged from total support of the "new management" to a wait-and-see attitude which dares us to prove we can do the job as well as did our predecessors. Allies members who live out of town have good cause to be apprehensive; for them, the newsletter is virtually the sole manifestation of their membership. It's very important that they receive a quality product.

Allies, this is your newsletter. It's my job to give you what you want. Everyone, out-of-towners especially, is urged to drop me a line and air their opinion. What do you like best (and least) about ComCon? What features would you like to see more (and less) of?

Your submissions, of course, are always welcome. However, now is a good time to clarify my editorial prerogatives, I reserve the right to make minor grammatical revisions of material. I also have the final say on what ultimately will grace the pages. How do I decide what goes in? In general, the more directly an item relates to Star Trek, the greater its chances of seeing print. Original creative work by members receives very high, priority. Thus, if you send in a review you've written of a recent ST novel, I will almost surely print it, whereas if you submit a TIME magazine article on computer gaming, I probably will not use it.

I'd like to see more illustrations, especially cartoons. I know that many of you possess imagination and creativity -— give me some tangible evidence of it! Unfortunately, many of the pictures I get cannot be used. Here are a few guidelines; no color photos! Make ink drawings dark, and make sure that all details and words can be clearly seen (remember, its size will be reduced at the printer's).

One final note, concerning the use of the editorial "we". It doesn't exist here. "I" refers to my opinion only, not to that of Allies as a whole. "We" refers to the collective opinion of the officers —— Jeannie, Joel, and myself.

• the editor cracks the whip on 17 subscribers who behind in their dues; she lists them by name, including one who "paid up as this was going to press, and was thus snatched from the abyss of non-membership."
• an update for the upcoming movie The Search for Spock as reported by Interstat, TrekisM, and Starlog
• there are plans for "an Easter party"
• a fan writes of attending a speech by Gene Roddenberry at Texas A & M (Feb 18, 1984) -- she reports he didn't talk much about Star Trek but instead about the future of computers, but that it was still a good chance to get together with other Trek fans to talk
• another fan writes of his experience seeing Roddenberry's talk at Tacoma Community College (January 20, 1984)
• there is a list of Roddenberry's college/university appearances
• there is a newspaper clipping from "The Tacoma News Tribune" by Cheryl Tucker about Gene Roddenberry losing weight in case he has a chance to fly on the space shuttle
• a clipping about Nichelle Nichols from "The Baltimore Sun"
• a clipping from the December 27, 1983 issue of "Star" about the future of space exploration
• poetry by MeLe: "The Plan(e)t Spock"
• an essay about fans, fandom, cliques, getting along by Susan McCutchen called IDIC, see that page
• an article about Star Trek comic books
• ads for fannish goods
• there are several short notes about what the celebrities are up to, William Shatner gives marriage advice, a psychic talked to William Shatner's dog about health problems ("The dog said to me, 'When they were shipping me back from up north in Washington, the airline dropped the crate. It hurt my neck real bad.'"), and a detailed description of Parker Stevenson and Kirstie Alley's wedding (Neil Sedaka sang, there was snow, everyone cried, Kirstie's wedding dress was lovely, and "Parker looked like a million bucks.")
• there is a list of upcoming cons, available tie-in and pro Trek books, and a Trek "laserdisc arcade game based on Star Trek: III"

• 

  cover of the March/April 1984 issue, Terry LeCroix and Annette Taylor

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  inside page from the March/April 1984 issue, Annette Taylor

May/June 1984

Communications Console May/June 1984 contains 20 pages.

cover of the May/June 1984 issue

From the editorial:

It has been very difficult for me to work on this issue. I would rather put Star Trek III out of my mind altogether, in order to be completely surprised on June 1st. But I have been forced to think a great deal about the movie, and such thinking creates such excitement in me that I can hardly stand it! You'd feel the same way, I'm sure, if you're a true red-blooded (make that green-blooded) Star Trek fan.

Many thanks to all who complimented my first, flawed -but- sincere issue of ComCon. As Franke put it, "Debbie's trying..."

[...]

And now, for something really different...Annette Taylor has gone out on a limb this time, with a clever parody of a certain popular magazine (see the inside back cover.) Lauren Bauer's cartoon takes a nostalgic look at an experience dear to the hearts of Allies. And newcomers Mike and Colleen Melnyczenko offer a beautiful rendition of the matte painting from "The Menagerie". I thank all of my artists (as well as anyone who contributed anything to make this newsletter special).

Next time is the post-movie issue. I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU. Send in your opinions and reviews of the movie: what you loved, what you despised, what could have been improved, what actors did the best job. I'll print as many comments as I can squeeze in. And yes, I'll be doing a review as well. Editor's privilege — right, Jeanie?

That's it for now. Gee you at the premiere ——- and save me the aisle seat!

From "Club Notes":

MARATHON... MIXED REACTIONS: From 5p.m. April 27, to 5p.m. April 28, WMKW-Channel 50 treated us to 24 hours of Star Trek, While we were very pleased to get more than our fill of Trek, especially after having been deprived of it for so long, we were also appalled at the major surgery conducted on many of the episodes ("City on the Edge", in particular, was butchered until the plot made no sense). To WMKW: Every scene has a purpose; that’s why it is there. You have no right to destroy the continuity of a story simply to sell a few more commercial minutes.

On the plus side, several Allies members came on between episodes to present 50 "Trekker Trivia" questions. You may pick up a list of these at any Memphis Wendy's restaurant. Anyone with all 50 answered correctly will win a small prize, and will be eligible for the grand prize, a Caribbean cruise. Deadline is May 11, and the drawing is May 16, If you did not participate in making the trivia commercials, you can play and win, so what are you waiting for? Head out to Wendy's!

• Editor's Log (2)
• Club Notes (3)
• Movie Update (4)
• Trek Tidbits (one tidbit: Shirley Maiewski's 4-year old grandson one a raffle in a cereal box, and his prize was a "full-size, 500-pound arcade-type STAR TREK game that he does not have to put quarters in to play") (5)
• Reviews and Plugs for Pro Books (8)
• "People Need Someone to Look Up to Nowadays; There Aren't Many Heroes" - a clipping about fan Jeanie Peeples, in the Bristol Herald Courier, Tennessee, Sunday February 26, 1984
• The Great Bird Speaks (more reports from various lectures by Gene Roddenberry) (10)
• "One thing's sure about 'Star Trek III': Nimoy's in charge" - clipping from The Gazette in Montreal, February 21, 1984)
• illo by Mike and Colleen Melnyczenko
• The Enterprise Man, poem by Beryl Turton (13)
• "Enterprising 'Star Trek' magazines" - a rendition of the article by Wiley Hall III, Under-the-counter magazine presents alternative Treks (it quotes the first part of the original article, and paraphrases the second part) (13)
• To seek out new life, article by Katherine Gillen, reprinted from SigNature News (a newsletter for conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts) (14)
• illo by Bauer (17)
• illo by Annette Taylor (18)

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July/August 1984

Communications Console July/August 1984 contains 24 pages.

issue published in July/August 1984

• Editor's Log (2)
• Club Notes (3)
• What Allies Do for Star Trek, "a report on the Memphis promotion for Star Trek III," by Melissa Lee (3)
• Fan enjoys trek into fantasy, clipping by Michael Donahue (5)
• Trek Tidbits (6)
• Letters from Our Readers (8)
• Cons (9)
• Old Ironsides, a poem by Oliver Wendell Holmes (10)
• The Enterprise, poem by S. Catherine Jones (10)
• Enterprising Trekkies lobby for their ship, clipping by Ellen Kozak for USA Today (11)
• Trek Books (reviews and plugs for pro books) (12)
• Star Trek: The Search for Spock Fan Reactions (13)
  • Debbie Gilbert: "The Great Bird Has Impeccable Taste"
  • Paul Neuwirth: "Star Trek III: A Nauseating Shock"
  • Robyn Dalby: "Dynamic Meaning"
  • Michael Melnyczenko: "Mixed Feelings"
  • Susan Fuller: "Perfect Blend"
• Star Trek III: Media Reviews (from many mainstream press sources) (17)
• You Heard it at Space Trek 3! (distilled information from audio recordings a fan made of some of the speakers) (20)
• illo by Annette Taylor (21)

Sept/Oct 1984

Communications Console Sept/Oct 1984 contains 24 pages.

cover of the Sept/Oct 1984 issue

From the editor:

We have a NEW feature this time, one in which you can actively participate. (I try at all times to undermine the effects of television, which I believe turns us into passive consumers and shrivels our imaginations.) On the page you will find a word-cross puzzle, courtesy of Melissa Lee. She sent a whole stack of these, and I hope to use them all eventually. Being a puzzle constructor myself, I know how tedious and painstaking the work can be, so I was truly overwhelmed by this unexpected windfall. Our puzzle this month concerns the life and lore of our club, and there may be references in it that newcomers won't understand. If this is the case, please write, and I'll explain them to you; I don't want you to feel left out because you can't make sense of our "in-jokes".

There may be those who protest that this issue is biased in favor of one person's work. To those people I say: You can easily rectify the situation by writing or drawing something of your own, stuffing it into an envelope, and slapping a stamp on it. I can't print it if I don't receive it! Equal time is guaranteed.

• Editor's Log (2)
• Club Notes (parties, presentations...) (3)
• Trek Tidbits (4)
• clipping about the The Four Banned Star Trek: TOS Episodes in the UK (5)
• Letters from Our Readers (three letters from fans: the topic was the recent Trek movie) (6)
• clipping: "'Trekkie Syndrome' result of winner's visit with cast" (Murfreesboro, TN, Daily News Journal, June 9, 1984, topic was fan Gale Pierce) (7)
• Space Trek 3: A Personal Account, con report by Phyllis Langdon (8)
• And Evening with the Squire, a Report of the Memphis Film Festival by Jean Ann Hodge and Inge Bryant (8)
• The Needs of the One, fan fiction by Mele (Melissa Lee) (9)
• Membership Roster (names, home addresses of members as of August 1, 1984) (11)
• untitled poem by Emily Ross (nominated but did not win a K/Star Award: "the judges had no taste, that's all...") (12)
• Trek Books (reviews and blurbs of pro Trek books) (13)

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Nov/Dec 1984

Communications Console Nov/Dec 1984 contains 24 pages.

front of Nov/Dec 1984 issue

back of Nov/Dec 1984 issue -- two items of interest: the fantastic sehlat illo, and the fact that this issue was sent to Gene Roddenberry as a courtesy

From Roddenberry's comments about the Four Banned Episodes in the UK :

... I disagree [with the ban] very much. 'Empath' to me was a beautiful story... If someone is to say to me, 'You can't have hurt and pain', I say, 'Nonsense!' Suffering and pain are a part of life. They should be handled, and handled well. I feel the same way about violence and sex. My objection to violence and sex is on the shows where it goes on for a while and someone says, 'Well, it's going slow now, why don't you have a fist-fight, or a shooting?' Then they put it in to raise the ratings. What I hate about violence are... shows where grown men strike out and hit each other in the face with their fists... and after hitting themselves for thirty minutes with all their strength in the face, they grin and say, 'Wow, wasn't that fun!' That's not how life is! If a grown man hits another man in the face, teeth crack, bones break, knuckles get bruised. I think one of the reasons why people were willing to go into the last war, and into various wars, is that death is such a lovely thing in war, you know --- "giving my all for my country!' That's not how it is! I know! Men lie out there and scream their guts out for hours, in agony. If you're gonna do violence, do it that way. Then people will say, 'Well, yeah, we don't want our boys to do that.' And sex [is] the same way. I see nothing wrong with sex. I think copulation is a lovely thing. I think, however, you just don't bare your tits, or something, just because the film happens to be going slow at that moment... I'll tell you a story about how my feelings go. There was a convention in the United States where, to my total surprise, a young lady came out nude, and she was billed as 'The Costume NBC Wouldn't Let Mr. Roddenberry Use!' I was startled... at the same time... I was more outraged at the people who came out in costumes with zap guns, and weaponry, and those things, than a simple human body. That's how I feel about that.

• the editor notes that this extra big issue is due to enthusiastic fan effort in the form of a six-page cartoon (and the cost of producing the zine made them go over-budget), that more fans need to submit material, and (on the other hand) it hurts to have to turn away top-notch material if the zine gets too big (so keep those submissions short).
• a list of members, some new addresses for members who have moved house
• "Will There Be a Star Trek IV?"—article about the upcoming movie, contains a partial transcript of Roddenberry's presentation given to the Atlanta Star Trek Society, also includes lengthy quotes from Shatner in "Variety" and from the Shatner Weekend (the latter reprinted with permission from The Shatner File)
• a short report on the positive comments about this newsletter received at the William Shatner Fellowship Weekend
• there is mention of a con skit: the next club meeting will have a "showing of "Planet Spock," so if you haven't seen it yet, don't pass up this opportunity to see Joel performing with stardust in his eyes!"
• lengthy report by Jan Driggs on The William Shatner Weekend
• a review of the pro book The Vulcan Academy Murders, see that page
• a review of the pro book, "The Tears of the Singers"
• untitled poem by Jean Ann Hodge
• "Choices," poem by MeLe
• three fan letters
• a Search for Spock crossword puzzle
• "Trek Tidbits"—various Trek news and promotional bits, including a lengthy comment by Roddenberry made "during a August 24 news conference in Newcastle, England," about the Four Banned Episodes in the UK

• 

  from the Nov/Dec 1984 issue, cartoon commentary by Annette Taylor

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  from the Nov/Dec 1984 issue, Annette Taylor -- "you ain't nuthun' but a sehlat..."

May/June 1985

Communications Console May/June 1985 contains 15 pages.

cover of the May/June 1985 issue

from the May/June 1985 issue, Patti Pasda

From the editor:

Folks, I need your help. We're putting together a special issue of ComCon this summer. Sure, I know every issue has been special in one way or another. But this time we're aiming for something extraordinary.

What's the occasion? In the month of July, Allies for Star Trek is celebrating its tenth anniversary. Given the ephemeral nature of fan organizations, our club's longevity is rather incredible. I think the key to our success has been our ability to ride the tide. In the fever pitch oi enthusiasm surrounding a major Star Trek event such as a new movie, fans get caught up in the excitement and clubs spring up overnight. In the lull between films, however, momentum is lost, and these fledgling clubs are often disbanded. We've survived because we are able to switch gears, to move into a low idle but still maintain a certain level of interest among our readers. The world of Trek fandom is apparently in a doldrums period now, but I'm asking all of you to shake off your inertia and get your creative fires heated up. We'd like as many of you as possible to help us observe our first decade of existence.

I don't want to do merely a straight history of the club, starting with the circumstances of its founding. Ninety-eight percent of our current members (including ye old editor; were not present for that historic occasion.) But just because you are not a member of the "old guard", it doesn't make you any less a part of Allies. What I'd like to see are highlights of the club's history from your, point of view. What is your most cherished memory? Your most unforgettable moment? Think back carefully on all the cons, the trips, the parties, the promotional work we did for the movies. Pick one or several and write about it. (I warn you: if you don't write something, you'll have to listen to me rattle on. Just offhand, I can already think of half a dozen experiences I'd love to reminisce on.) Out-of-town members whom we know only through correspondence: your participation is needed also. You can write about what being a part of Allies—receiving the newsletter and being in on a nationwide network of fans and friends has meant to you. You could even broaden it to explain how Star Trek has influenced your life.

Submissions can take any form you choose —— essay, poem, cartoon or drawing—but we'd like to receive them by the 15th of June. Our goal is for as many of you as possible to participate in assembling our "Allies Ten-Year Scrap-book", So, as our Vulcan friend says, "Remember" —— and send it in!

• Editor's Log (2)
• All About Allies (includes the then-current club finances) (3)
• Trek Tidbits (what the celebrities are up to, club activities) (4)
• Trek Books, a review of The Best of Trek #8 by Walter Irwin and G.B. Love (6)
• reviews of various Trek pro books (6)
• Star Trek 2½, by Melissa Lee (a review of The Wrath of Khan as it was shown on television, and comments about the extra 15 minutes of footage that was put back in.) (NOTE: while the topic and the title are the same, this is NOT the same article by Debbie Gilbert in TREKisM #54 in 1987.) (7)
• Star Trek IV Update (7)
• a reprint of Harlan Ellison's negative review of Star Trek: The Search for Spock ("Several years ago, Harlan Ellison's review of ST:TMP in STARLOG magazine provoked a great deal of comment and controversy within Trek fandom. For this reason, I thought our readers would be interested in what he had to say about Star Trek III.") (originally printed in the September 1984 issue of "Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction") (8)
• a review of the science fiction con, "Midsouthcon" IV (March 22–24, 1984) (9)
• seven fan letters (10)
• a pro review of "The Search for Spock," reprinted from "Video Times" February 1985 (13)
• some newspaper clippings, and reprinted pro cartoons

July/Aug 1985

from the July/Aug 1985 issue

Communications Console July/Aug 1985 contains 20 pages.

From the editor, Debbie Gilbert:

Thanks, guys.

Last issue, I sent out a plea for material to put together our tenth anniversary edition. Your response was gratifying. I wouldn't exactly say I was inundated with contributions, but among those I did receive, there were some lovely surprises. I'd like to thank each of you by name, but you know who you are, and so will everyone else when they read the pages that follow. Special mention, however, must be given to two of our artists: Melissa Lee, whose cartoon on the inside cover was just what I was looking for; and Terry LeCroix, who went to a lot of trouble to re-design our front cover, giving it a sleeker, more modern look. It's the perfect new image for ComCon as we enter our second decade.

As delighted as I am by the number of members who chose to contribute, I am also saddened by the many who are conspicuous in their absence. These were members who in the past made enormous contributions to the club and played a vital role in its history people like Jean Ann Hodge, Inge Bryant, Joel Murdock, Annette Taylor, Anna Cox, Fred Black, Emily Fox, Paul Neuwirth, Carol Marsh, and Franke Jackson. It doesn't seem right to have an anniversary issue without at least mentioning them. I want it to be known that we have not deliberately slighted these members we simply didn't receive any thing from them. I fear that I have alienated some of these people, who may feel that the club has gone downhill since I took over the helm as editor. But my editorial policy has been, and continues to be, an open one: I welcome all kinds of input from all points of view.

And speaking of welcomes, it's party time! This newsletter is but half of our anniversary celebration; the rest comes July 20th, when we have what coordinator Lauren Bauer calls a "barbecue bash". Those of you who have never attended an Allies party, HERE IS YOUR CHANCE! I hope you will receive this newsletter in time to make your plans to come. (And if you're not enthusiastic about the club's anniversary, consider that July 20th also marks sixteen years since humans first landed on the moon. You could celebrate that instead.) I hope to see as many of you as possible at the party. "The more the merrier" certainly holds true where Allies is concerned.

My reminisces are included elsewhere, but in closing I'd like to briefly say what Allies has meant to me. The social interaction it provided helped pull me out of an extremely difficult period in my life, and it gave me some close friends whom I know I can count on. For this, I will be forever grateful to Allies for Star Trek.

From "Trek Tidbits" - Roddenberry begging to fans:

We helped Gene, but now his wife needs our assistance. Majel Barrett Roddenberry would like very much to return as Christine Chapel in ST IV. If you feel the same way, it is not too late to voice your opinion. You can write to Mr. Frank Mancuso [...] As always, be brief, polite, positive and mature. Do not write "Star Trek" on the envelope, or identify yourself as belonging to any Star Trek organization. Majel says that one intelligent letter on her behalf will have the same effect as 3000 signatures on Paramount's decision.

Comments by the editor about the rumor of Eddie Murphy being cast in the next Star Trek film:

Dear God, please tell me this is only a rumor. I've accepted all the other changes in Trek -- the takeover of Harve Bennett, the death of Spock, the destruction of the Enterprise -- but his is the absolute last straw. They are putting a box-office "name" who has no business being in trek, for the sole purpose of pulling in more bucks. Murphy's presence will destroy credibility; Trek will become a joke, an object of ridicule. I am vehemently opposed to a plot line in which the Enterprise crew meets up with a real-life comedian of the 20th century. It is trash, utter drivel. Surely the writings can come up with a better solution than this!

• Editor's Log (2)
• All About Allies (3)
• Trek Tidbits (More begging to fans by Roddenberry, it includes news from Susan Sackett that enough money ($3000) has been collected from fans to buy Gene Roddenberry his Hollywood Walk of Fame star; James Doohan contributed some cash to push the amount over the edge. Any additional money collected will be donated to a charity of Roddenberry's choice. "The unveiling ceremony has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 4, 1985 at 12 noon. It is likely that most of the Star Trek cast will attend. Susan wishes to thank all the fans that made this dream a reality.") (4)
• various clippings (including one that echoes the rumor that Eddie Murphy was going to be in the next Star Trek film.) (6)
• Some Words from the Creator ("The following was taken from the STAG Newsletter. It is a partial transcript of a press conference with Gene Roddenberry, taped in Newcastle, England, on 24 August 1984.") (8)
• Trek Books (includes a review of Mind Meld #2, see that page, as well as some pro Trek books including Ishmael and The Vulcan Academy Murders ) (9)
• Remember: Join us as we reminice over the last ten years (12)
  • Debbie Gilbert
  • David Jackson
  • Jeanie Peeples
  • Robyn Dalby
  • Dr. Marvin R. Bensman
  • Melissa Lee
  • Patti Pasda
  • Mike Melnyczenko
• untitled poem by Rhea Brainerd (16)
• One from the Heart, three poems by Debbie Gilbert (17)
• Letters from Readers (three of them) (18)

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Sept/Oct 1985

Communications Console Sept/Oct 1985 contains 15 pages.

issue published in Sept/Oct 1985, Terry LaCroix

From the editor:

WE ARE SORRY!!!

We know that the newsletter has been difficult to read lately, and this is unacceptable. It grieves us that you should spend your hard-earned money for a substandard product. But we are trying to correct the problem: Jeanie is working with the printer to see if we can't get darker reproduction, and I just spent $30 to repair (supposedly), the tension control on my typewriter. So this issue should be more legible. If you still find it unsatisfactory, please let us know at once.

We are also sorry in a different way -- sorry that each and every one of you couldn't make it to the "barbecue bash" on July 20th. It was Allies' biggest party ever! Coordinator Lauren Bauer accomplished a miracle of planning and the party room at the Mall of Memphis was perfect for once we weren't cramped like sardines in somebody's living room! The front half of the room offered visual entertainment ("The Planet Spock" play, the blooper reel, animated episodes, and Terry's film of our Space Trek trips), while the back section held alternative activities. An entire table was filled with members' photo albums depicting ten years of memories, I spent half an hour wallowing in nostalgia. Another table was set aside for games. I engaged trivia maven Emily Ross, along with several other out-of-towners, in a battle-of-the-brains, but the new Star Trek trivia game proved too easy; nobody ever missed a question! (It wasn't designed with people like us in mind!) And of course, there were two tables laden with food. In addition to the barbecue Lauren had ordered, there were the usual drinks, snacks, and several cakes, one of which read: "Allies: A Perfect 10" After new members were initiated with "The Claw", Lauren and Jeanie handed out awards. Though I am nominally a part of the "exec-com", I knew nothing, of this, so I was very surprised and pleased to receive a beautifully scripted certificate for "excellence in writing and editing." (Melissa did the calligraphy, in addition to making the wonderful signs and posters adorning the walls. Jean Ann and Inge were given marble plaques for their past years of service. The only drawback to the party room was that we had to vacate by 10 p.m. But a few of us die-hards continued our fun over at Fred's house, where we watched the movie "Splash" on TV, It was great to renew old friendships (as with the Jacksons —— my, how James T. has grown!), and to make new ones (as with Alisa Schnaars, whom I previously knew only on paper). Allies is a terrific bunch of folks, and I'm lucky to be a part of it!

From the book review section:

AN UPDATE from Paramount's Eddie Egan: The Killing Time [sic] by Della Van Hise had an initial print run of 150,000 and sold out quickly. However, it contained "questionable material," so Pocket Books has reissued it in a revised edition. No indication is given of what is considered "questionable." And since there are now two versions in circulation, does this mean that completists will have to obtain one of each? Also, you may have heard a rumor that Pocket Books is pulling Ishmael off the shelves because of legal difficulties concerning its "rip-off" of Here Comes the Brides. Egan assures us that this rumor is false.

• Editor's Log (2)
• All About Allies (3)
• Trek Tidbits, info about the celebrities, lots of professionally-produced things for sale (Includes a note about Susan Sackett's "handsome, gold-lettered invitation" to attend the ceremony in California to attend the dedication of Gene Roddenberry's Hollywood Walk of Fame star -- "A number of members are planning to fly out for the ceremony (and I expect a full report for the next newsletter, guys!) THANK YOU, SUSAN SACKETT, for remembering us! We Trek fans will no doubt give Gen one of the most memorable moments of his entire life.") (4)
• a reprints of newspaper cartoons (7)
• Trek Books, includes an update from Paramount's spokesperson, Eddie Egan about "The Killing Time by Della Van Hise (8)
• Trek Books, three Trek pro book reviews by Roberta Rogow, reprinted from "Voice of Youth Advocates," a professional journal for librarians: "Uhura's Song," "Shadow Lord," and "Best of Trek" #8 (8)
• art by Patti Pasda (10)
• a reprinting of "Mr. Spock and Gaan: Alien Perspectives on the Future" (part one) by Gene Roddenberry (This originally appeared in Feb 1995 issue of "The Futurist." This appears to be what was mentioned in the July/August 1983 issue of the newsletter with the description: "Gene Roddenberry will be spending the summer working on his novel, "Report from Earth", which is about an alien named Gan and his observations of Earth cultures.") (11)
• Letters from Our Readers, nine letters from fans (12)
• a Star Trek crossword puzzle (15)

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  from the Sept/Oct 1985 issue, Patti Pasda

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Jan/Feb 1986

Communications Console Jan/Feb 1986 contains 20 pages.

cover of the Jan/Feb 1986 issue, artist is Annette Taylor

The editor was Jean Ann Hodge, the club president was Inge Bryant, the staff artist was Annette Taylor, and the columnists were Debbie Gilbert and Jeanne Powers.

From the editor, a description of some changes:

The newsletter not only has a slightly new look, but a new editor as well. Actually, I'm not new, just "re-cycled." The first thing you will notice is that Debbie(the outgoing editor) and I have totally different styles .. . partly because of Infinite Diversity, and partly because I am more than a bit "scatterbrained." [...]

I think we have a very good issue for my "return to the typewriter." Every page is filled with news or reviews or reports on happenings in the world of Star Trek.

One of the first things you'll notice is the absence of a "letters" column this month. Because of all the material I received, I had to choose news over letters . .. news always being the first priority. That is, after all, what you pay $6.50 for! We do love hearing from you, and I will print letters whenever space allows, so keep writing, please! I have tried to incorporate some of your comments received throughout the newsletter and hope that I have achieved an "easy reading!' issue for you.

Please let Inge and I know what you love, or HATE about the way we run the club, do the newsletter, etc. ALLIES belongs to you, because YOU ARE ALLIES. We are here simply to "steer" us through the 20th Anniversary Year. Working together, we can all have the best year in Star Trek Ever!

From the editor:

This issue Debbie Gilbert makes a smooth transition from editor to her former role as columnist for the COM CON. For those of you who have not been around as long as us "old-timers", let me say that you are in for a real treat. "Star Strokes" is where you will really see Debbie shine. Her columns are always something out of the ordinary, and always spark a lot of interest and comment. I know she would very much appreciate any comments you'd like to send along to her a bout her column , or any of her other writing for that matter. I am sure that most of you are aware that she is accepted as a fine fan writer in Star Trek and Star Wars fandom . .. of course, we're proud to say she is a long time friend and Allies member. We're proud we found her first!

From the editor, a description of a proposed second Star Trek Saturday, and some examples of a lot of unpaid fan labor to benefit Paramount, which in turn benefited fans:

A REPORT ON THE NEW YEAR'S EVE BUSINESS MEETING/PARTY: The usual 20-some odd people filled Jean Ann's tiny apartment for an enjoyable combo business meeting and party. Since details on the cons are still vague, the main outcome of the meeting was the decision to host another "STAR TREK SATURDAY" as the club's celebration of the 20th Anniversary of ST. The tentative date has been set for September 13th, providing we can book the facilities, etc. For those of you who weren't around for the event we sponsored a few years ago, let me say that STAR TREK SATURDAY will be basically a community service project offered free to fans in the area. We provide numerous displays, ST news and info, and video.

In December of 1981, we threw a "small" one, expecting maybe a 100 people to browse through during the day. We ended up with about 400! We may not draw that many this time, but we are hoping to have a small celebration of Trek, and stir up a little interest for the new movie. If you'd like to be involved, please let us know. More details will follow as plans progress.

The club will also be placing displays at the libraries during the September-October-November. build-up to the new movie. We will again be focusing on the 20th Anniversary and throwing in a plug for the new movie. We will be doing a variety of different displays - books, plates, memorabilia, ST & NASA, etc. If you'd like to help us, please let us know. Displays are also something you out-of-towners can get involved with. Call you local library and see if they have a locking display case (locking, for obvious reasons). Sign up for a display. Fans really enjoy it, and it's a good way to meet new fans, since your name and number will be on the display. If any of you do one, please send us a photo or two. We'd love to see it.

The club is also looking forward to working with Bill York at Swearingen and Conaway (the local Paramount reps) on the promotion for ST IV. We've talked to Bill, and he seems as excited as we are about the prospects for the new movie. Bill has been a pleasure to work with on Star Trek II and Star Trek III (he doesn't think we're all nuts!) and it will be good working with him again later this year as Paramount plots its promotional strategy.

Some more promotional begging and unpaid fan labor, this time for Bjo Trimble:

Allies member Sandra Fouts is asking fellow ST fans to write to Pocket Books to help Bjo Trimble in getting a ST novel published. Sandra writes, "In my conversations with Bjo Trimble, she has informed me that she is having problems getting her novel published. In my opinion, Bjo is a neat person and a very good writer. She has done a lot for Star Trek and the fans. Therefore, Kathleen Fisher and I have been asking people to write Pocket Books a nice letter and tell them that we would very much like to see a ST novel by her."

• Editor's Log (2)
• Club Notes (3)
• Movie Update ("With Nicholas Meyer adding his creative genius, we seriously doubt that Bill has anything to worry about!") (5)
• Trek Tidbits (5)
• A Report on the October LA Convention by Susan Ray with Betty Schmidt (11)
• Star Strokes, return of an old column by Debbie Gilbert (the topic is analysis, commentary, and reviews of the new Twilight Zone on television; Gilbert also reviews The Best of Trek #9, see that page) (13)
• Paper Chase, a new column by Jeanne Powers (the focus is STAR TREK as it appears in the print media) (15)
• a review of Infinite Diversity #6, see that page (16)
• On the Music for Star Trek, article by Doug Little (17)

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1986 issue

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1986 issue, art by Annette Taylor

Mar/April 1986

Communications Console Mar/Apr 1986 contains 20 pages.

cover of the Mar/Apr 1986 issue, Annette Taylor

The editorial is about the recent space shuttle disaster with Challenger.

From the Washington Post clipping, Roddenberry disses some fans, and makes a distinction between good fans and bad fans:

Fans can line themselves up behind at least two subdivisions: Trekkers and Trekkies. The former, a more serious species of devotee, tend to look down their noses at the latter, who are considered shallow because they wear 'Star Trek' costumes and tend to get overexcited at conventions.

At this year's convention, however, there seem to be few of the Trekkie order, although some have t-shirts that say, "Beam Me Up, Scotty. There's No Intelligent Life Down Here." "You get some who wear Captain Kirk suits," says Roddenberry, "who jump up and down and scream. But at conventions like these you ' ll also meet prominent surgeons and schoolteachers ... Some are absolutely brilliant computer wizards and some, fine artists. A dozen of them have become well known writers, artists, and photographers."

At an unnamed Midwestern university, the distinguished head of the sociology department was to introduce Roddenberry before a lecture. "So, at 8 o'clock, this gentleman, gray-haired, comes out wearing a Captain Kirk suit. I did not know how to relate to him."

• Editor's Log (2)
• In Memory (quotes from famous men about the shuttle disaster) (3)
• Apparition, poem by Debbie Gilbert (about the shuttle disaster) (4)
• Fan Comments about the Shuttle Disaster (4)
• Club Notes by Inge Bryant (5)
• Pen Pal Project (6)
• Trek Tidbits (7)
• clipping from the Washington Post: Head Trekkie: Gene Roddenberry Boldly Went Where No Man Had Gone Before, Against Network Executives, by Desson Howe (12)
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert (contains a poor review of Carl Sagan's book "Contact" and a positive review of TREKisM at Length #5, see that page) (15)
• Paper Chase, column by Jeanne Powers (contains much about Diane Duane, and many other topics) (17)
• illo by Annette Taylor (portrays female fans who hope to be in the next Star Trek movie) (19)

• 

  from the Mar/Apr 1986 issue, Patti Pasda

• 

  from the Mar/Apr 1986 issue, Patti Pasda

• 

  from the Mar/Apr 1986 issue, Annette Taylor, portrays fans who'd like to be in the next Trek movie - it is commentary on good fans and bad fans (and shame) and isn't a glowing example of IDIC

July/Aug 1986

Communications Console July-Aug 1986 was edited by Jean Ann Hodge, and 40 pages in length.

It is "Special Anniversary Issue."

front cover of the Jul/Aug 1986 issue, Lisa Hockett

frontispiece of the Jul/Aug 1986 issue, show's club logo

The cover design for this issue is by Lisa Hockett. Other artwork in this issue is by Patti Pasda and Gamin Davis.

The "Steve Barnes" listed is not M.L. "Steve" Barnes, nor the African-American author Steven Barnes.

From the zine:

THANKS to Diana Jenkins and Patti Pasda for extra stamps.

OUR EXTRA SPECIAL THANKS will have to go for "Our Favorite Klingon", Henry Cox, and his wife, "Commodore" Anna Cox, whose generous contribution every month to the club's special fund has made the printing of this 20th Anniversary issue possible. By using the special fund money to put out this extra special newsletter, everyone in the club will benefit.

Jean Ann, thanks for donating the envelopes, and thanks to your employer, the Serta Mattress Company for donating t he use of the typewriter while yours is in the shop.

Here is something I want to share with you because I could hardly believe it when I read it. This is what Allies member Carolyn Barrett wrote:

"You'll never guess the convention we missed on July 5 in Chattanooga, TN. It was a one day FREE con, that's right, a free con that was sponsored by a local TV station. The guests were Jimmy, George, and Nichelle!"

Oh well, it's a shame people never find out about these things until it's too late...a few days LATER, it even made USA TODAY!

Allies member Diane Durham had quite a special time at Space Trek when Nichelle read two poems of hers, "Inquisitive Mind" about Uhura and a tribute to the Challenger crew....Diane was treated to a standing ovation by the audience....those of us from Memphis were unfortunate enough to MISS it, as we were on the road headed toward home when it occurred. Wish we had been there!

• Club Notes, by Inge Bryant (5)
• Star Trek News (about the fourth Star Trek film, various clippings) (6)
• Convention Reports (16)
  • Starlog's Salute to Star Trek by Carolyn Barrett, see that page
  • Space Trek IV by Diane R. Durham, see that page
  • Space Trek IV by by Carolyn Barrett, see that page
  • A Dinner with Eddie Egan at Kansas City Con by Judy Decker, see that page
  • Kansas City Con by Inge Bryant, see that page
  • My Dinner with Ralph Winter at Kansas City Con by Jean Ann Hodge, see that page
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert (27)
  • a review of Likely Impossibilities #2, see that page
  • a review of Kaleidoscope, see that page
• Paper Chase (short reviews of books, newspaper articles, comics) by Jeanne Powers (29)
• What Star Trek Means To Me by Harold Feldman, Diane Bell, Betty Dain, Steve Barnes, Robyn Dalby, Norma Taylor, Jean Ann Hodge, Patti Pasda (a poem), Jeanne Powers, Debbie Gilbert (Gilbert's essay is also in TREKisM #53)) (30)
• Final Notes (40)

• 

  from the July-Aug 1986 issue

• 

  from the July-Aug 1986 issue, Gamin Davis

• 

  from the July-Aug 1986 issue

• 

  from the July-Aug 1986 issue

• 

  from the July-Aug 1986 issue, Patti Pasda

• 

  from the July-Aug 1986 issue

July-August 1986: What Star Trek Means to Me

Some excerpts:

Diane Bell:

always watched and loved Star Trek. Why, I'm not real sure. Maybe it's the characters and the love they have for each other. Maybe it's the aliens they meet, that makes us think we aren't really alone in this universe and peace is a possibility between different peoples and races. (After all, if Spock and Kirk can be best friends, don't you think our little "differences" seem small?)

Then, it could be the fact that I too, dream of space and space travel. You know, on every single mission I'm right there with them, seeing, feeling, and experiencing with them ... learning, loving, sometimes failing with them . Through the magic that is in Star Trek alone, I too can go where no man has gone before.

Up until 1985, I didn't know of fandom or conventions so my highlights are just beginning. My big experience of 1986 has been SPACE TREK IV, my very first con! I do know that as the years go by I will have more memories to add to the list, but for now I have my new friends from Allies, my ST plates (a gift from Earl, my husband), and my license plate that says Trekker. So if you ever see a Tennessee car with that license plate, just honk and give me the Vulcan salute and I'll understand!

Betty Dain:

Star Trek save my life, or at least improved my health. When I was a teenager (and long before that) I had the bad habit of eating salt. My friends and family did everything they could to break me of the habit, but nothing worked.

The evening I saw the episode "The Man Trap", my life was changed. As you can imagine, it broke me of my habit faster than anything anyone else could have tried. Everyone who was concerned for me will forever be grateful to Star Trek...one look at that monster cured me forever...now I rarely use salt at all!

I probably would never have watched Star Trek had it not been for another series, Captain Video. It only took one week for me to be hooked on Star Trek and its belief for the future, a future where we can all work together and get along.

I like the whole crew. My favorites have to be Spock and his Vulcan father, Sarek. A friend of mine used to tell me that I was not human. When she saw Star Trek, she said, "Now I know, you are Vulcan!"

That is what Star Trek has done for me...

Steve Barnes:

Back in the 1960's everything seemed to be either black or white; there were no shades of gray. A war was dividing our country, we were torn by the civil rights struggle ... these are only two of the issues which I remember ...

It seemed that television offered a western every night, or at least , if not a western, a cops and robbers show. Sometimes you wondered what would come next - perhaps a Tokyo type show with people throwing atomic bombs at one another? Fortunately for us man has not gone quite that far ... but twenty years ago, these were my perceptions. As a handicapped person, television has always been one of the few ways to get some kind of idea about what is going on in the world ... especially since I have never found the news magazines and newspapers much help in unravelling the day's happenings.

There were a few shows and specials which seemed to proclaim hope for mankind, but they were few and a galaxy apart...until one night when my brother came in to turn the television to a science fiction show, one which would change the way I saw the world. Need I tell you what show it was? No, it was not THE OUTER LIMITS! That was the show I was watching when my brother angered me by turning the channel to ... STAR TREK.

I watched the show all three seasons, and thought it was a good show. It was nothing more than that until a few years later, when in reruns, I began to appreciate it as so much more. It offers hope, a dream to live for, and... most importantly, a role model to teach me about issues. I have always found the stories to be like parables...but molded in a way to be allowed during the restrictive 1960's. If the show were to be on the air today, I'm sure they would handle issues more directly than could ever have been done in the 60's.

Robyn Dalby:

Trek has meant more the me the last 10 years really than from

its origin. The first Trek episode I ever saw was when it first aired. I thought it was ridiculous ... of course I only saw 10 minutes of it, so what kind of opinion can that really be? Must have been a lack of mature appreciation for good science fiction, huh?

Anyway - in 1976 I started watching the show in syndication and I got hooked - right away! Although I must admit I was a closet Trekkie. When the first movie was released, I "broke out in the open" and have enjoyed Trek with some really wonderful people.

I think Trek appeals to me because of the honest, close, and genuine relationships between the main characters. I feel that this fact wrapped together with such excellent science fiction is what keeps this storyline going.

I'll tell you one thing - if there really was a Fantasy Island, my fantasy would be to beam aboard the Enterprise and head out to deep space with the crew's next mission. (That would sure beat changing diapers, fixing meals, and cleaning toilets at home!)

Norma Taylor:

Trek to me is a way of life, optimistic about its outlook on the future and belief in all types of mankind. In short, "IDIC" says it so beautifully. It is hard to improve upon the Vulcan "Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations". The Great Bird of the Galaxy created a new way of life that is incomparable, or hard to improve upon!

Jeanne Powers:

I find it difficult to easily summarize what Star Trek has meant to me because it has been such an integral part of

my life for twenty years - and I'm only twenty-eight! I do know that it represented hope for the future at a time when there was little hope and did so with a quiet assurance.

Instead of constantly harping and preaching like the "relevant" shows, Star Trek led by example. We saw be ings of many different worlds all working together routinely; this was the norm, not anything unusual. And they were a family. They cared about each other. They didn't always agree, but they respected the right to disagree (in most cases, anyway!).

Different was not always wrong. I saw different philosophies, different moral standards, and different beliefs presented without instant condemnation. At the time, I didn't realize that this didn't always happen in the real world. I simply accepted it. It occasionally made for some rude awakenings, but it also gave me an ideal to move toward.

I don't know that loving Star Trek for all these years has made me a better person, but I do know that it has given me joy, hope, and a very special bunch of friends. I couldn't ask for more.

Debbie Gilbert:

Star Trek is Me: For many of us, Star Trek was an experience of our youth. It was fun while it lasted , but--because the only universa l constant is change -- we eventually grew up, graduated, got married, "gafiated ".

Only we didn't, really. If you were raised on Star Trek, you could not now escape it even if you wanted to. It has become a part of your inner fiber; it helped mold you into the person you are today.

Though I hold strong opinions on such issues as overpopulation, war, ecological destruction, and prejudice, I now realize that these opinions are not entirely my own, that Star Trek must take a large share of the credit.

[...]

As much as my parents or my schooling, Star Trek has made me what I am. I hope that I'm a better person than I would have been without it. During t he next fifty years in which I expect to live, Star Trek may often seem very far away from me. But something inside me will always be bonded to it, as if by the Vulcan ritual:

"Parted from me, and never parted -- Never and always I touching and touched."

Sep/Oct 1986

cover of the Sept/Oct 1986 issue, "The cover design for this issue was provided by Sue Keenan, the head of the DKFC and a long time friend and Allies member. Thanks, Sue!"

Communications Console Sep/Oct 1986 contains 24 pages.

It was the last one headed by Jean Ann Hodge and Inge Bryant.

This issue contains a short letter by Harve Bennett: "Thanks for your kind letter and for my copy of the 20th Anniversary Special. I loved the piece on "Dinner with Ralph.""

From Jean Ann and Inga, the editor and president:

This issue of COMMUNICATIONS CONSOLE marks our last as your editor and president. We are permanently retiring with the premiere of ST IV. We've shared a lot of wonderful times together, which we will always treasure, but the time has come for us to move on to other priorities.

The club will continue under David Jackson's leadership, ably assisted by Chris Roberts and her editorial staff, so please give them all your support as they begin their journey into the ins and outs of running a club. If we could have, we would have made this issue as large as we had material for. Unfortunately, we couldn't. I, as editor, had to hold out a lot of material you sent in...and will pass it along to Chris and David for the next issue...

Before we say our farewell, we would like to thank a few extra special people who have helped us in our efforts to give you a quality product with each issue of COM CON:

JEANNE POWERS - Jeanne, you've been our resource person, our "universal provider", our "newsletter within a newsletter" ... and more than that, our good friend.

HAROLD FELDMAN - You've never failed to spot just about everything, and then share it with all of us.

ANNETTE TAYLOR - You've shared your talent and your friendship, we couldn't have asked for more.

DEBBIE GILBERT - Debbie, we appreciate your talent, your honesty, your friendship, and your support. Thanks!

And thanks to all of you, who have given us your friendship and support. May you live long and prosper...May the Force be with you in all your endeavors...and May all your encounters be happy ones....

[...]

With the mail out of this issue, Allies will begin the transition phase of passing "command" to the "new management". While Jean Ann and I will still be steering the club through Star Trek Saturday and the premiere, all other functions of the club will transfer on November 1st.

From the info about the upcoming new series, (Star Trek: TNG:

The news of the new ST series has sent shock waves through fandom, pleasant shock waves. We are all excited about the prospect of having more Star Trek, particularly since it will be created by Gene Roddenberry, the man who knows his creation best. I think I speak for most ST fans when I say that we don't expect a carbon copy of the original, nor do we want one, but we are excited about what we know Gene will give us: real, honest, people-oriented science fiction that speaks to us about issues, and about life. It's an exciting prospect and we wish Gene the best of luck with this project.

Now the real task begins for Gene, in choosing the staff and the cast, trying to get that perfect blend. While we have heard nothing official on any others involved, we have heard a rumor that Edward Milkis is being considered as producer to work under Gene. Ah Eddie, the series, the blooper reel, "Happy Days", and now back to ST....I suppose those are the cycles of life.

About the upcoming Trek film:

There will be a lot of humor, and a lot of the feeling of the series about this film... and expectations are high that this will be the most popular film yet... to quote a phrase that Gene Roddenberry is reported to have make when he saw the script. "It's so good it scares me..."

From the comments about Vonda McIntyre's recent Trek books:

Regular readers may recall my vehement objections to Vonda McIntyre's novelization of Star Trek III. My contention was that she took too many liberties with the script and spent too much time developing her own characters. In order to enjoy the book, the reader had to erase the filmed version from her mind. Most people buy a novelization in order to re-experience the movie, and it is a dreadful disappointment not to get what you thought you paid for.

However, if the author has not been hired by a movie studio, if the story is entirely her own concoction, then she is free to be as wildly experimental as she wishes. Thus, with Enterprise: The First Adventure (Pocket Books, $3.95), Vonda McIntyre gives rein to her prodigious imagination, and the results are amazing.

• Editor's Log (2)
• Club Notes by Inga Bryant (includes info on Star Trek Saturday) (3)
• Star Trek News (much about the upcoming film, a blurb about the upcoming new series (Star Trek: TNG) (5)
• Excerpts from "The Handbook of Production Information for Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home" (courtesy of Swearingen and Conaway Communications and Paramount Picture Corporation) (6)
• a photocopy of a Paramount Pictures Corporation News Release (topic is Star Trek: The Next Generation) (10)
• Membership Roster as of October 28, 1986 (It is 5 pages long, but is unnumbered)
• "New Star Trek Television Series on the Launch Pad," newsclipping by Morgan Gendel, Los Angeles Times (11)
• excerpt about Star Trek: TNG from "Variety" on October 15, 1986 (12)
• a report from Broadcasting Magazine, embedded in a October 17, 1986 letter by Dr. Marvin R. Bensman (on Memphis State University letterhead). It also includes information on how the broadcast industry works: syndication and such. (14)
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert (mainly, a long review of Vonda McIntyre's book, "Enterprise: The First Adventure") (15)
• Paper Chase by Jeanne Powers (comments about various video releases, comments on some Trek pro books and their numbering, info on decorative plates, on calendars and a lot of official swag) (17)

• 

  from the Sept/Oct 1986 issue

Nov/Dec 1986

Communications Console Nov/Dec 1986 contains 20 pages.

cover of the Nov/Dec 1986 issue, portrays Majel Barrett Roddenberry and Gene Roddenberry

The editor was Chris B. Roberts (one of the original founding members), the columnists were David Jackson, Debbie Gilbert, and Chris B. Roberts, the editorial staff were Patricia Pate, Jane Dike, Amy Fleischer, Harold Feldman, George Roberts, and James T. Kacarides.

The club president was David Jackson.

From the editorial, some changes:

As you know by now, there has been a change of staff here at the Communications Console. Even though Inge and Jean Ann left a legacy that will be hard for us to match, we will be attempting to uphold the standards which they have established and maintained.

An interloper! Another Communications Console!:

YELLOW ALERT!

Jeannie Peeples has brought it to our attention that Marion McChesney and Sandy Zier of Baltimore, Maryland 21211, has started a Fanzine Directory. However, they have also decided to use the name "Communications Console", which is the name we have been using for twelve years. So that there can be no static, which could cause some communication breakdowns, we would like to say at this time that we have had no interfacing with this other "Console". However, we will attempt to transfer any misguided communications that should come our way.

• Editor's Notes (2)
• Club Notes by David Jackson (includes a report on the recent Star Trek Saturday) (3)
• Trek Tidbits (4)
• Just a Little Problem of Morale, fan fiction by Diane R. Durham (to be continued) (6)
• untitled poem by Diane R. Durham (6)
• Spotlight on a Star (about Catherine Hicks, actress) (7)
• short Treks by David Jackson (Star Trek tidbits and clippings) (8)
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert (glowing praise for the fifth Star Trek movie) (9)
• more random clippings
• a long letter from Henry Pabst who wants to sell fans many Star Trek and Star Wars things (13)
• more random clippings
• Trickling Sands of Time, poem by Diane R. Durham (18)
• illo by Annette Taylor

• 

  from the Nov/Dec 1986 issue

Sept/Oct 1987

Communications Console Sept/Oct 1987 contains 18 pages. While the official editor was Chris B. Roberts, this issue was temporarily edited by James Kacarides.

front cover of the Sept/Oct 1987 issue, Taylor

• Trek-Bits by Pat Pate, Trek in the news (4)
• In Defence of STTNG by David S. Jackson (5)
• various newspaper clippings from newspapers
• Tribbles and Bits by David S. Jackson (10)
• more clippings (12)
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert, a review of the Tie-in book by Margaret Wander Bonanno's book "Strangers from the Sky" (Gilbert sent the author of this pro book her review, and the author responded with a letter, printed in the Nov/Dec 1987 issue) (15)
• The Paper Chase by Jeanne Powers, article Trek in the news (16)
• some short fan testimonials by fans about how great "Com Con" is (18)

• 

  from the Sept/Oct 1987 issue, Taylor, the Cabaret is likely a con thing

• 

  from the Sept/Oct 1987 issue, Taylor

Nov/Dec 1987

Communications Console Nov/Dec 1987 contains 20 pages.

Though Chris B. Roberts is listed as the editor, this is a courtesy, as Roberts is stepping down at the end of the year.

Editorial staff: Jane Dike, Harold Feldman, Amy Fletcher, James T. Kacarides, George Roberts and Pat Pate. Columnists: Debbie Gilbert, David Jackson, and Jeanne Powers.

cover of Nov/Dec 1987, Jane Dike

The cover is by Jane Dike.

Some changes for the newsletter and club:

As we draw to a close of the year Allies For Star Trek has much it can look back on over the past twelve years. Due to the dedication of many persons to the Star Trek ideals, the club has performed it's 'prime directive' of keeping the dream alive in the best way possible among our members and friends. But looking back isn't the proper focus for us today. If we did, we would not exist today. Only a year ago, sincere and devoted members of Allies recommended we shut the club down. At such a time, real commitment must surface if it exists at all. And exist it did in the person of David Jackson who refused to let the club die, by offering himself as a candidate for President. Other members rallied around Chris Roberts who volunteered to serve as Editor with a staff of eager workers. Allies went on!

We came to the Edge, but the Dream - at least our small part of it, refused to die. The membership owes a sincere debt of gratitude, appreciation - and Love to David and Chris for the fine work they have done in 1987 in guiding Allies and publishing Com Con. In the grandest tradition of the Service - "A Hearty Well Done," They step down from the Bridge in '88, but their presence will always be felt in many, many ways within the Allies.

We salute our new Command Staff elected in November: Co-Presidents - Pat Pate and Harold Feldman, and our new Editor - Jane Dike. They follow in the footsteps of many excellent officers of AFST over the past years. Those examples will serve them well.

Be prepared for a superb 1988, and make yourself available to serve Allies in any way you are able to. I have heard some of the ideas and projects under discussion and we will be hearing about them from the officers in the months ahead. There will be a part for us to play to make them succeed. And succeed, they will.

A letter from Margaret Wander Bonanno:

(Written to Com Con columnist Debbie Gilbert) "Thank you so much for your lovely note and your most complimentary review of Strangers from the Sky (Sept-Oct Com Con). I know how difficult it is to please a fan audience; your review indicates I have succeeded. Also, I could not have been more pleased with the way you synopsized this 402 page behemoth,in two succinct and precise paragraphs, while including mention of the 'inside jokes' as well as the 'big stuff'. My compliments on your insight. My next Trek endeavor, if there is one, will be a sequel to Dwellers in the Crucible, my first Trek novel. Now if I can only come up with a plot..."

From Gilbert's essay about Star Trek: TNG:

I need somebody to love. And so far, I haven't found that somebody in "Star Trek: The Next Generation". It's an interesting show, and I like it very much, but no one has yet captivated me as did the Big Three years ago. Of course, I neither wanted nor expected to see clones of Kirk, Speck, and McCoy, but I had hoped that one of the newcomers might sweep me off my feet in the same manner.

I'm still trying to pin down the secret of Star Trek. Was it the people, or the format? Roddenberry has always asserted that the show could exist independent of any particular character or actor. He is right. "The Next Generation" is one hundred percent authentic star Trek. It bears far more resemblance to the original series than did any of the theatrical movies. The format is indeed immortal, and the surroundings, despite being "new and improved", are so familiar that one need only look around briefly to feel right at home.

Unfortunately, the plots at times have been a bit too familiar. It's almost inconceivable that they are willing to spend a million dollars per episode to get every detail correct, yet they sabotage it all with bad writing. For "Encounter at Farpoint", the story of the Bandi people enslaving the gigantic space-eating jellyfish would have been adequate. The business with "Q" was superfluous, not to mention stupid. Some viewers have compared "Q" to the Squire of Gothos, but at least Trelane had a charming naivete - be was "naughty" because be didn't knew any better.

"Q" is just plain despicable, and since his motivation is never revealed, be remains a cardboard villain.

• Editor's Log (2)
• Club Notes by David Jackson (3)
• Trek Bits by Pat Pate (Trek celebrities, information in the news) (4)
• a flyer for Creation Con (Nov 21-22, 1987) (5)
• Mail Call, there are five letters of comments from fans (6)
• clippings about about Star Trek: TNG (7)
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert (essay about Star Trek: TNG, review of the show)
• names and addresses of about 100 club members (11)
• another clipping about ST: TNG (14)
• more fan reviews of Star Trek: TNG (15)
• a letter reprinted from Starlog (#122, Sept. 1987) (speculation about Saavik, and David Marcus -- and mutual grandchildren for Spock and Kirk via The Romulan Commander) (16)
• more clippings (17)
• Paper Chase by Jeanne Powers (more Trek, more official things to buy) (18)

• 

  from the Nov/Dec 1987 issue, the essay by Gilbert, about Star Trek: TNG

• 

  from the Nov/Dec 1987 issue, the essay by Gilbert, about Star Trek: TNG

Jan/Feb 1988

Communications Console Jan/Feb 1988 contains 20 pages.

cover of the Jan/Feb 1988 issue

Editor: Jane B. Venters-Dike. Co-Presidents: Patricia Pate and Harold Feldman.

Editorial Staff: Jane and Reece Dike, Linda and Dean Eckhart, Harold Feldman, James Kacarides, Patricia Pate.

Columnists: Debbie Gilbert, David Jackson and Jeanne Powers. Cover: Jane B. Venters-Dike. Club logo: Annette Taylor.

From the editor:

I guess I could start by saying "My name is Jane B. Venters-Dike and I'm your new editor. However that sounds yucky at best. So, let me start by saying thank you to everyone who has helped me get this first issue under control, under budget and on time. THANK YOU! Thank you for sending your contributions. Thank you for your calls of support. Thank you for your encouragement. Thank you for your typing, glueing, stapling, and mailing. This Com Con issue is the product of your sweat--I hope you enjoy the reading!

Communications Console is , of course, by and for A.F.S.T.. To further the goal of each member participating in the production of our newszine, the Editorial Board has decided to use this space to announce the themes for 1988 issues. We hope knowing what is upcoming will encourage each of you to send in more reviews, more original stories, pictures, ideas and thoughts. We want each of our 20 page issues to be filled with ,not only the latest news about STAR TREK and the Stars, but also the best of YOUR work, Of course, our regular contributors are the backbone of ComCon and continues to do a wonderful job. We just want to discover more regular contributors.

January-February: First Officer: Riker

March-April: Spock vs. Data

May-June: Women in STAR TREK

July-August: Kids in STAR TREK

September-October: Continuing in space. The Discovery Launch

November-December: Family Issue

From "Star Strokes":

A portion of my last column was omitted without my consent, so I will start off by recommending again David Gerrold's novelization of Encounter at Farpoint. It is overpriced, at $3.95 for 192 pages of rather large type, but the writing is clean and unadorned, a refreshing change from Vonda McIntyre's self-indulgent elaborations. Helpful background information is provided for the characters, particularly Data. We learn that Data was not built by the Federation, but by a now-dead alien civilization, and that he chose his own name, because "I love knowledge". I would really like to see all of the episodes appear in book form, with perhaps two or three shows in each volume. I also don't see why they can't come out with professional novels featuring the new characters, since every conceivable plot surrounding Kirk, Spock, and McCoy has been exhausted. I'm hoping "The Next Generation" will spawn a new crop of fanzines as well.

From "Tribbles and Bits":

Allies members Jane Dike and myself at a last minute notice, made an appearance on the local talk show "On Cable Tonight". Our show hosts were Debbie White and Robert Thompson. We discussed the club, showed Star Trek photos, saw a brief film clip from "The Planet Spock", and did a promo for the Creation Con that was upcoming. Jane signed up a new member right on the spot. Jane is also the artist that did the captain to captain cover on the Nov-Dec ComCon.

The Orlando Florida Sentinel newspaper, October 4th issue, carried an article called "Star-less Trek". It covered parts of two pages as well as the TV preview page. The paper had color photos and a large B&W and wouldn't you know it, yes, it was the age old upside down version! You would think they would have learned by now!

Thru the grapevine it's heard that Dorothy Fontana is leaving the set of the new series. She is said to want newer type story-lines, rather than the rehashing of old ideas, and its seems that others don't want this. We will have to wait and see.

From the con report:

A "Portable Convention" is my description of a CreationCon. I call it a portable con, because there was no costume contest, art room, video or film rooms, or banquet.Even so I enjoyed the con very much.

There were slides of TV shows and films, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. They also had a Star Trek Trivia competition, and a preview on a new movie epic called Willow, by George Lucas and Ron Howard. A no minimum bid Star Trek creation auction , the Famous Star Trek blooper reel and our very good Russian Enterprise Commander Chekov that is our fine actor Walter Koenig. They also had a good dealers room, which, as always, they got my money.

All in all a very good portable convention.

• Editor's Log (1)
• Trek Bits ("Walter Koenig was in Memphis for Creation Con at the Marriott Hotel. He said that he had proposed a script for the new series, but was turned down.... Walter Koenig also has a movie he is working out and also a science fiction movie. We will let you know more as we find out." (3)
• clippings (5)
• an essay by Harold Feldman (about TNG as reported in an issue of Starlog) (8)
• more clippings (9)
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert (about David Gerrold's TNG novelization, about novelizations in general, but mostly short reviews of TNG episodes) (11)
• A Review of Star Trek IV by Bill Stewart (13)
• Tribbles and Bits by David Jackson (14)
• clipping (15)
• Notes on the Creation Convention in Memphis by Harold Feldman (16)
• another clipping (17)
• illo by Patti Pasda (18)

• 

  from the Jan/Feb 1988 issue

Mar/Apr 1988

Communications Console Mar/Apr 1988 contains 20 pages.

cover of the Mar/Apr 1988 issue

Co-Presidents: Patricia Pate & Harold Feldman; Editor: Jane B. Venters Dike; Editorial Staff: Jane & Reece Dike, Linda & Dean Eckhart, Harold Feldman, Amy Fleischer, James T. Kacarides, and Patricia Pate. Columnists: Debbie Gilbert and Jeanne Powers.

From the editor:

I must assume from the TOTAL lack of response concerning the proposed changes in the Club's By-Laws, that no one out there is violently opposed. However, I am very concerned that NO response was forthcoming! I have received exactly two letters with feedback about the January - February issue; good letters with valuable points made to improve later issues. I truly wish more of you would take the time to jot down your thoughts - either for publication or not - and ~ them to any of us on the Editorial Board. Or, if you're like my husband and prefer to use the phone, that's fine too; the answering machine is on whenever we are not around.

• Editor's Log (1)
• President's Log (much about the upcoming elections in the US, and further plans for space exploration) (2)
• In Memoriam (letters reprinted from Interstat about the passing of Kay Johnson) (3)
• Mail Call (reprints a letter from Shuttlecraft Columbia from Patrick Stewart to a fan named Norma Taylor; there are also other letters reprinted from that newsletter) (5)
• Trek Tidbits by Patricia Pate (6)
• Data Input (letters and poems from fans about Data) (8)
• Star Strokes by Debbie Gilbert (a review of the pro Trek book, "The Final Frontier" by Diane Carey; also reviews of some Star Trek: TNG episodes) (9)
• Paper Chase by Jeanne Powers (this one was supposed to be in the previous issue but there was a mail mix up) (11)
• Paper Chase by Jeanne Powers (the column written for this issue) (13)
• Star K'lips by Harold Feldman (clippings) (14)

May/Aug 1990

cover of the May/Aug 1990 issue

Communications Console May/Aug 1990 contains 20 pages.

Administrative Officer: Patricia Pate Treasurer: Chris Roberts First Officer: Jimmy LeDuc Editor: Jane B. Venters Dike Editorial Staff: Jane & Reece Dike, Linda & Dean Eckhart, Miles Fears, Harold Feldman, David Jackson. Jimmy LeDuc. Carol Marsh, and Patricia Pate Columnists: Debbie Gilbert, Jimmy LeDuc, and Patricia Pate

From the Editor's Log:

Five different people have worked on typing this extended issue of COMMUNICATIONS CONSOLE. A happy collective effort to bring each of you a new collection of Trek "what for's", "how to's”, and "how come's". With this one off the press and out to the world, I am happy to say we are ready for the new season of TNG. Local members are to see the first episode of the new season at a premier party to be held at Pres. Pat’s house. I need the support for this one... How 'bout you ? What could they have in mind for Picard, the Enterprise, the Crew, the world, and life in general? I am very interested to see how they get themselves out of this corner.

I would like to thank Monica Koppel publicly for her letter. It addressed something which needed to be pointed out, and it kicked me, once again, in the tail for letting sloppy typing get out of this house. I don’t always use the resources available to me in my hurry to try to balance my day job (teaching special kids), my family responsibilities (husband, three girls, house, pets, etc.), my Church responsibilities (choir, etc.), and my editing responsibilities (the COMCON, et.al.). I will try in the future not to trust the many people who help me type to also proof. I trust the forgiving nature of each of you, to tell me of the mistakes, but not to hold them against me or any of the rest of our volunteer staff! The other issue is one of editing. Everybody here loves to receive your letters and other contributions. However, with the monetary restrictions of a limited number of pages to print in each issue, we must edit your contributions. Please do not take this action as a slight. Any editing done is only meant to consolidate and elucidate.

I hope everyone enjoys this extended summer issue of COMCON. It’s time to start on September. Look forward to notes from members on their reactions to TNG's "Dallas-style" cliff hanger in our next issue.

From one of the letters:

I have recently taken over from Margaret Richardson as President of the Star Trek Action Group, and in the process have inherited the club's collection of your Com Con newsletter going back to 1984. Reading them has provided me with many hours of enjoyment.

I am particularly interested in your reprint of local and national newspaper articles on the cast members as this type of item rarely appears in the UK press. For instance the article from the Baltimore Sun, reprinted in your March/April 84 issue, is an interesting and well-written profile of Nichelle Nichols, and I've also noticed articles on Gene Roddenberry's lecture tours. Only Bill Shatner and Leonard Nimoy get press coverage here.

As I am sure STAG's members would be as interested as I am. I wondered if you would consider giving me permission to reprint some of these articles in our newsletter. This would be with respect to press articles only, not original work from members, and I would of course give credit to the author/publication. and to yourselves.

[...]

I look forward to our continued association. - Lynn Collins

• Editor's Log (1)
• Results Received from Survey of AFST Membership (favorite episodes) (2)
• Letters from Fans (14 of them) (2)
• some black and white photocopies of Star Trek: V posters from Germany (9)
• Trek Bits (11)
• Trek Quest, more Trek bits by Jimmy LeDuc (18)
• Star Trek Comic Books by Harold Feldman (very brief synopses of Gold Key offerings from the 1970s) (20)
• various clippings (22)
• updates about Trek from a fan who attended Dixie Trek (24)
• several more terrible photocopies of stills from Star Trek: V from Germany (26)
• reviews and descriptions of Starlog by Harold Feldman (with Star Trek TNG content) (29)