posted 08-17-2007 08:46 PM               

I spoke with Ed Mitchell for 30 minutes Uninterrupted. I gave him a copy of my book and Music CD 'Citizens of Planet Earth', and he gave me a HUGE discount on his book, Autograph, and New DVD (The VIEW FROM SPACE: A MESSAGE OF PEACE).

All the Lines were short. I spoke to many of the Astronauts as if they were hanging in my BackYard.

I called Dr. Buzz a 'SPACE REBEL' , and he looked back at me with a mean smile and said, 'I am not a Space Rebel, Burt Rutan is a REBEL' and we all laughed.

Dr. Buzz has a New Look ... it is very interesting ... a very rebelious Look !

Dr. Buzz spilled coffee on his Blackberry phone and it wasn't working correctly ... he was trying to fix it while taking pictures with people and signing their stuff ... he seemed a little upset that his phone stopped working. I feel for him!

I spent time in the Art Gallery ... it was very nice. I saw Kim Poor in a wheel chair ... I hope he gets better.

I met MANY People and shared many stories with them.

I bought a silver ring with a small Iron meteorite in it ... very Cool!

Overall, it was a Great Experience, short lines and lots of Fun. I doubt it going to be like that on Saturday or Sunday. So I guess I took advantage of going on Friday.

Good Luck to Everyone at the Show and I look forward to Hear Your Stories!

posted 08-17-2007 09:20 PM               

A "coincidental" breakfast with Walt Cunningham - he told stories of being a young Marine stationed in Japan. And how NASA needs to regrow some bigger... uh, "stones."

Buzz' new look - I told him the beard suited him (I am also bearded), and he said to tell his daughter the doubter! He claimed a true "greybeard" (the expression for a sage aerospace guru) suits him - I agree!

Charlie Duke: The nicest true southern gentleman you can imagine. He took loads of time with everyone, and man does he write beautifully.

Gene Cernan: other than a wrist brace (not on his signing hand), he was smiling and inspiring (especially the youngsters) at the speed of light.

Joe Kerwin: First time he's done a show, I think. Really generous and outgoing gentleman, and for a great bonus, he was assisted by Jayme Flowers, of Apollo 10 stuffed Snoopy photo fame.

The test pilots, often quite underappreciated I think, got quite a kick of the whole autograph convention thing. I think some didn't realize they have "fans."

A real nice moment when an Army Warrant Officer aviator in uniform visited. All the astros treated him with such respect, and thanked him for his service.

Whew. Novaspace is off with a bang in the Spacefest business.

posted 08-18-2007 12:33 AM               

Zee I'm glad you enjoyed it, it's been a lot of fun. Early reports from the astronauts report they are very pleased - VERY.

This room is quite large, and we managed to have it quite filled several times during the day.

As a minor correction, Kim can walk, he was in a scooter so as not to not wear himself out, but he was having the time of his life today.

As to be expected by Kim, Sally & Novapsace, this has been an extremely class affair. And that seemed to be the byword of many guests and astronauts.

Combined with a space art show, and a booth manned by Paul & Chris Calle, that alone was worth the trip. The Calles are true gents and a lot of fun to be around.

The over 6' LAUNCHABLE Saturn V is a sight to behold too (from Spacetoys at their booth).

I have to say, the ambience and totality is something quite amazing.

Yes, I am prejudiced, but I think many will agree.

This is Joe Kerwins 1st show appearance and he's been having a ball. Won't meet a nicer guy.

Richard Hatch's flight, like most everyones, was delayed. His talk has been rescheduled for tomorrow and I bet it's a grand one. He's a really nice guy. Thanks for recommending him!

The test pilots are amazed at the autograph requests and how many people remembered them. The interaction with the astronauts has been very heartwarming as well, not to mention the mutual respect that is very obvious.

posted 08-18-2007 10:40 AM               

We went and saw the movie "The Wonder of It All" and it was so inspiring to get to see those who had walked on the moon talk about their experience like a "regular" guy. My wife, who has always been supportive of my love of all things space related, came away from that movie with a new outlook on the men and the nation's accomplishment.

posted 08-18-2007 07:27 PM               

Back (L to R): Scott, Lousma, Walker, Carpenter, Schweickart, Mitchell, Aldrin, Cernan

Front: McCandless, Bean, Duke, Cunningham

(Click to enlarge)

posted 08-18-2007 07:42 PM               

Favorite Q & A reply:

Q: Sir, you've flown three different launch vehicles. Which one had the most vibration?

posted 08-19-2007 05:43 PM               

The test pilots idea was a unique flair that I hope to have the honor of participating in again. They are such a wonderful group of folks with such unique stories and experiences. Bob Cardenas’ story about what happens when only one of two JATO bottles fires at take off just left me rolling on the ground laughing.

I can’t thank Kim, Sally, Gerry and my friend Al, who always seemed to be right around the corner with a smile on his face, enough for sponsoring this wonderful party/convention.

Oh yeah, and the cheesecake at the banquet was top flight stuff. God bless my wife who sweet talked her way into getting a few extra pieces to go. My little girls loved them!

------------------
Kind Regards

Douglas Henry

posted 08-20-2007 12:09 AM            

quote:

---

Originally posted by Whizzospace:
John Young just slayed the audience with his talk about the past and future of lunar exploration, chock full of his reknowned dry wit.

---

posted 08-20-2007 08:49 AM               

Despite 110 degree heat, the hotel was nice and cool. There was a large venue with separate areas for space art, vendors, and the astronauts and test pilots (each of whom had their names and mission plaques behind them). The layout was well-planned.

I got in late Friday just in time for the movie, which was outstanding. I felt like I had just had a conversation with the featured moonwalkers (Mitchell, Duke, Bean, Aldrin, and an eloquent Cernan). It was more about their human side than about technical details.

The lines on Saturday were quite reasonable (except for Dave Scott, who had a long line most of the day). The autograph fees ranged from the reasonable ($10 for General Cardenas and the other test pilots) to the high side ($175 Aldrin; $150 Scott; $125 Cernan). Except Aldrin, most of the signers were nice to add inscriptions for free. Cernan signed covers (which he doesn't always do), as did Bean; Aldrin would not.

The astronauts and test pilots seemed to be having a great time. They all were friendly and readily posed for photographs, most even standing up to do so. Buzz Aldrin was especially friendly and upbeat, as he sported a new beard (makes him look older).

I really enjoyed meeting Joe Kerwin (first American M.D. in space) and Charlie Walker, neither of whom attended previous shows. They were generous with their time and very warm.

For those who appreciate space art, the show was amazing. Besides Kim, Robert McCall, Paul
Calle, Chris Calle, William Hartman and many oothers were in attendance. I especially enjoyed Paul Calle's great stories about his interactions with the Russians such as Leonov who are fellow space artists. Paul, Chris and Bob McCall, who have designed almost all U.S. space stamps, were happy to sign first day covers of their artwork, and the Calles had a lot for sale.

As noted above, one of the treats of the show was the gathering of most of the astronauts there for a group picture as the show was closing on Saturday (Kerwin, Weitz, and Young were MIA from the grouping).

The banquet was good, although I wish they would have introduced the featured guests. Andy Chaikin was the host and Jerry Doyle, the radio host, gave a short talk. The food was above average for such an event. I enjoyed a table with P.J. Weitz, his wife and his son Matt (who writes concert reviews for a Dallas newspaper). I asked Weitz why he was asked to be deputy director of JSC after the Challenger accident and he said "I have no idea," explaining that Dick Truly called him asking him to take the job. We had a very pleasant conversation at the table talking about space but also about our families. I learned that Weitz attended Penn State, where my son goes; P.J. was on campus there when Joe Paterno started as an assistant. He said there were 12,000 students then (now it's over 40,000). He lives in Flagstaff and enjoys fishing, but no longer flies.

Some of the highlights were observing the personal interactions. Before the banquet Gene Cernan was near our table and I saw him warmly hug and talk to a white-haired woman, who I later learned was Jan Evans, Ron' widow. Mrs. Evans came to the banquet with space artist Bob McCall and his wife (they al live in the Phoenix area) and seemed to enjoy seeing everyone. I had breakfast outside Saturday morning with Rob Gallagher and some of the Novaspace staff. John Young and his wife Suzy walked by and warmly hugged and greeted some of the staff (Young remained out of view except for his witty talk and the banquet, which he quickly exited after it was over, in contrast to most of the other astronauts who stayed behind for pictures).

Overall, the show was well-organized and featured some unique people and experiences compared to past ones. I greatly enjoyed my brief visit and look forward to future ones.

posted 08-20-2007 10:19 AM               

Regarding Dave Scott, I witnessed him posing for photos with several people (grown ups & children) who did not buy autographs from him.

And Godspeed to collector and overall great guy Charles Davis, who leaves for Iraq this week.

posted 08-20-2007 10:44 AM               

All of the astronauts I met were quite friendly and talkative. One astronaut even said "I know you, you post on collectSPACE." (So yes, folks, they DO read these pages!) For me, it was a real honor to meet the test pilots and talk to them. I was especially happy that I got to sit at the banquet table with Gen. Cardenas. He has so many fascinating stories to tell that I was worried he wasn't getting enough time in between breaths to eat his own meal. But he didn't seem to care. He was just happy to share his experiences. His stories of Pancho Barnes were particularly interesting!

One of the biggest highlights was meeting so many fellow collectors and many of the people I have talked to online. Everyone thought the name tags were a terrific idea. Since I know a lot of names, but not many faces, it helped me connect with many people I might not have otherwise recognized. The astronauts also commented on how nice the name tags were, since they could see where everyone was from. It was great to finally meet in person guys like Derek (and his new wife Debbie), Scott, Al, Paul, Yvan, John, Bruce, Dave, and so many others.

It was also a great pleasure to finally meet Kim, Sally, Rob, Randy, and all of the Novaspace crew. They are to be congratulated for putting on such a tremendous show. For those who dropped off items with Rob for the McDivitt and Borman signings, they will know just how much thought and consideration he puts into pen types and signature placement. I was very impressed with his attention to detail.

posted 08-20-2007 01:12 PM               

For Charles: godspeed your safe return. Keep your head down and come back in one piece.

For Jerry Doyle: Great little speech. Your family was a joy to witness, particularly your daughter and her obvious devotion to you. I have the ultimate respect for a man such as yourself who places family above all else.

For Al: Thanks for all of your help and encouragement. Nobody shot me--which is legal in this state btw--nobody stalked me and nobody met me outside later. Maybe it was just too hot.

For everyone who brought their children: The children will lead us to greater things in the future. When you expose your children to grand ideas at a young age, they are better able to produce grand visions and accomplishments in the future. Thank you for bringing them.

For Kim and Sally: You both worked long and hard both before and during the show. Take a day off on me.

For Rob, Lisa, Linda and Alina: I'm really sorry I had to leave you early Sunday. I hope you managed to get done before midnight.

Note: Opinions expressed here are my own.

posted 08-20-2007 07:02 PM               

Enjoy it we did - it was fantastic. Given our time constraints I had to choose carefully among the many opportunities for attendees. My two young daughters - ages seven and five - were with us and we spent our time meeting the astronauts. I'm so pleased to know that they have now met five of the men who walked on the moon, and that they have photos to show to their grandchildren one day. My Emily will turn 70 the year of the 100th anniversary of Apollo 11. Unfortunately we were not able to meet Dave Scott since it was Friday, and a few other folks such as Scott Carpenter were missed due to our rushed schedule. I was practically speechless, just as I always am whenever I am around these gentlemen.

My greatest surprise, and easily one of the highlights, was the opportunity to meet and chat with Andrew Chaikin. He was just as friendly as could be, and he clearly was excited to be there.

Of the items that I picked up my favorite is a black & white 16x20 (the closeup of Alan Bean taking the soil sample with Pete reflected in the visor). Alan, before he signed it, took the time to tell me how they were laughing at the mess Pete had made trying to get the soil into the container.

Thanks to Kim and the entire crew who made the event possible!

posted 08-20-2007 07:04 PM               

The positive: All of the signing astronauts were very nice and all were willing to allow you to take a photo with them. The space art was really cool and a big plus for the show. You really see a different crowd with many people belonging to the art and science world that we have never met before.

We sat with Carpenter at the dinner- The volume of the room was very high so it was very difficult to hear, but we did ask some questions and he was very attentive and answered all of us at the table and greeted each of with a hand shake before and photos after.

I must say the event was a class act and having the event in Phoenix gave us an opportunity to see the Grand Canyon, Meteor crater, and the Titan 2 missile silo.

Now the negative: They should have just not advertised John Young. Although others may have had a different experience, he was not very personable- and when he was asked to have his picture taken he flat said no- and rushed to the exit, (this was true after the speech and after the dinner- I guess this is why they put him next to the door). Maybe he had a bad day, however- many people were at this event primarily to met Borman, McDivitt and Young. (I seen a lot of the UACC regulars)I am sorry if this is not the true Young- but he did disappoint me and my father who traveled 2000 miles just to met the one moonwalker that we have not met yet. (It wasn't like we wanted an autograph- we just wanted to shake his hand.

By the Way- all of the other astronauts -minus Young- stayed after the dinner, took pictures, and talked with the crowds long enough that we got to talk and get our picture with all of them.

posted 08-20-2007 07:13 PM               

I think the astronauts enjoy coming to Arizona... I wonder how many astronauts trained in Arizona's landscape for the moon landing?

posted 08-20-2007 09:51 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by jam1970:
We sat with Carpenter at the dinner- ....he was very attentive and answered all of us at the table and greeted each of with a hand shake before and photos after.

---

What I found disappointing was the Col. Scott did not show up on Friday [or wasn't scheduled], and for those of us who only had one day planned at the event, that information wasn't readily available, or at least I didn't see it posted anywhere. Multiple people asked at his empty booth on Friday where he was. Also disappointing due to poor time management on my part; I missed meeting Dr. Kerwin, someone who I had hoped to chat with. ~~~ General Duke could have used a volunteer at his table to help out with the long lines, credit card transactions and the like. Why the staff at SF didn't notice his predicament and fix it, perplexed me. ~~ Had a great talk with Col. Cunningham & his wife Dot. If you haven't gotten his *All American Boys* boxed set on CD, you should. There are laugh-out-loud moments through out his reading of the book. Well worth having in the car for a long drive. --- & If Captain Cernan ever looses Claire, who knows what would happen to him! -- Lastly: Dr. Mitchell and Capt. Bean are as gentle, and poetic, and artistic in soul, form and function; as anyone you would ever want to meet.

In the memorable moments category. I had the opportunity to briefly help Commander Carpenter on Friday AM in setting up. When I got to his booth, there was this "homeless" looking person wearing a blue baseball cap and unpressed shirt and pants talking to Commander Carpenter.... Much to my surprise, after a long double-take -- it was Buzz Aldrin, sort-of-scruffy-incognito! Sorry, Doctor Aldrin, but that is a memory I soon won't forget! Hope you all have similar memories!

Cheers all! G

posted 08-20-2007 10:12 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by gajs:
What I found disappointing was the Col. Scott did not show up on Friday [or wasn't scheduled], and for those of us who only had one day planned at the event, that information wasn't readily available, or at least I didn't see it posted anywhere.

---

It was posted here, among other places: http://collectspace.com/ubb/Forum37/HTML/000320-2.html

Most collectors there knew that Scott was only planning on being there on Saturday. Actually, Dave Scott stayed longer than advertised and was there until about noon on Sunday.

quote:

---

Originally posted by gajs:
General Duke could have used a volunteer at his table to help out with the long lines, credit card transactions and the like. Why the staff at SF didn't notice his predicament and fix it, perplexed me.

---

posted 08-20-2007 10:44 PM               

As to Duke: You're running a show and making $$ off of it. You ask a guest to attend. He's 72 years old. [Forget the fact that he could probably still out perform either of us]. In my world, I'd cut him some slack and not make him have to cook, clean and wash the dishes --- before he leaves my house, after having been invited as a guest. Get the idea? Best, G

Gerard A.J. Stodolski, Inc. - ABAA, PADA, ILAB
Historic Autographs, Rare Books & Manuscripts
Five Chickadee Court
Bedford, New Hampshire 03110

posted 08-20-2007 11:43 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by gajs:
As to Duke: You're running a show and making $$ off of it. You ask a guest to attend. He's 72 years old. [Forget the fact that he could probably still out perform either of us]. In my world, I'd cut him some slack and not make him have to cook, clean and wash the dishes --- before he leaves my house, after having been invited as a guest. Get the idea?

---

Maybe, for all we know, Duke PREFERS to do his own cooking and cleaning. Until you or I know any differently, it's best not to criticize. It a matter between Duke and Spacefest...and none of our business, to be quite frank about it.

posted 08-21-2007 01:13 AM               

Don't worry, they were not allowed near the dishclothes or brooms.

As for El Baz, we simply were not able to work it out.

posted 08-21-2007 12:22 PM               

First, it's not much of an argument. The astronauts do need more assistance at the signing tables. Yes, on the one hand, as a general matter, some astronauts are very ably helped by family members and others. On the other hand, just as a generational matter, some astronauts tend to spurn well-meaning offers of volunteer and paid help.

Here's what the show organizers could do: Go to the local state university placement office. Post a weekend job announcement for astronomy or astrophysics students. Offer $20/hour. Ask the students to show up promptly in a suit and tie. Ten minutes of orientation, perhaps offer a pass to the gala. Tell the astronauts beforehand that these helpers will be available. That you have x numbers of students from XYZ state university. Ask the astronauts to sign up for one of them.

My sense also is that astronauts would be happy to pay for the service, which, as I say, show organizers should set up as a courtesy to our septuagenarian and octogenarian heroes.

The students would take photos, keep track of pens and inscriptions and monies. Run credit card machines if necessary, and generally manage lines, time, breaks, etc. This builds community around the shows and introduces astronomy students to astronauts.

Seems to me that the service would actually pay for itself in time the astronaut would save: allowing him to spend time signing instead of on managing the store.

Just my 2 cents.

posted 08-21-2007 01:33 PM            

I suspect that some astronauts simply don't want it known by a volunteer or helper how much they make at these shows.

posted 08-21-2007 02:12 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by Novaspace:
Not necessary at Spacefest. We had perhaps 100 wonderful, knowledgeable, capable volunteers
Kim

---

Thanks, Kim. Happy to be educated. So many volunteers! That's great.

posted 08-21-2007 02:42 PM               

If possible please could people from the event post some of your photos .Thank you. Bye.

posted 08-21-2007 04:21 PM               

It was apleasure to see him as always.

Sometimes you get the problem too, of people who help them set up. Well meaning and of course, 1st in line to get lengthy inscriptions which ties it up for those behind them also.

posted 08-21-2007 05:24 PM               

A particular note of appreciation for Charlie Walker - his approachability, enthusiasm and comunication skills brought the experience of shuttle flight alive. Hopefully Charlie will become a regular at space events.

posted 08-21-2007 07:34 PM               

The Astronauts were fantastic all taking time to chat, i was sat next to Walt Cunningham and his lovely wife Dott for the banquet, this was a great end to the weekend for me.

Big thanks to Kim his charming wife Sally Linda, Lisa, Rob,and Randy it was the best weekend iv'e had ever and of coarse i've spent a fortune but no regrets.

cant wait for the next chapter.

posted 08-21-2007 09:03 PM            

quote:

---

Originally posted by Kev:
A particular note of appreciation for Charlie Walker - his approachability, enthusiasm and comunication skills brought the experience of shuttle flight alive. Hopefully Charlie will become a regular at space events.

---

posted 08-21-2007 09:11 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by zee_aladdin:
I thought Robert (Collectspace) was going to be at the show. What happened? I was looking forward to say hi to him and see his collection all over again.

---

posted 08-21-2007 09:26 PM               

Each has its own particular slants, strengths, and weaknesses. I say "at least at this time," because it remains to be seen (obviously) whether interest can be sustained over multiple years. No matter what, the organizers can help themselves by having a longer amount of time between events than just two months (and, as someone living in Ohio, taking advantage of the "reward" of leaving the bad weather for good if in places like Florida or Arizona.

On to Spacefest:

I think the event was very well organized and applaud everyone involved for that. The backdrops in the autograph area for each GoH was a nice touch (both in terms of giving them their due as to accomplishments as well as providing a good background for photographs).

I particularly liked the talks and actually spent a good deal of time each day at them. Of special note were those by Paul Calle, Carolyn Porco, and Jim Rice (plus John Young, though perhaps more for his significance than the presentation).

Another strong point (for me) were the artists. Paul Calle was very interesting and extremely personable. At the banquet, I was at the table of Mr. and Mrs. McCall and they were both wonderful people. I had brought Mr. McCall's book, simply in the hopes I could have it signed, but he took the time to fill the entire full page with a drawing and dedication to myself. Attendees came very close to seeing a grown man cry as I could not believe that the man responsible for the artwork (not just the main poster) for the film 2001 was doing that for me, in front of me -- it was a special moment I shall cherish.

Next to me at the banquet was Mrs. Evans, who was wonderfully nice and treated me to special stories about the (ongoing) relationship amongst the astronaut wives and a great anecdote about watching the first moomwalk with (the then) Mrs. Armstong.

In the signing area, I was especially pleased with interaction with Walt Cunningham, Rusty Schweickart, Bruce McCandless, and Paul Calle. As shown in another topic, I was especially concerned about getting a moonwalker piece inscribed in a certain way (all others so far have name, then mission, then which number moonwalker) by Dave Scott. It turned out in my favor, most likely because I was early in the day and because it was likely seen as an extension of his mission info rather than extraneous copy (or as they put it, a "dissertation.)

As always, the attendees were excited, admiring, enthusiastic, and welcoming in conversation. Some I had met in the past; others new.

I do agree, though, with a previous posting that the banquet would have been stronger if the GoH were introduced and acknowledged, if for no other reason that some of us may not have known about some of their accomplishments (for instance, I don't know that much about the test pilots aside from those who later became astronauts.

The banquet, as with the hotel's restaurant, suffered from some major personnel shortage issue. Both times I visited the restaurant, everything was so slow as to be unbelievable (even though those working did the best they could). At the banquet, for instance, 4 of our table only got their salads after multiple requests and at the time others were getting their entrees. Entrees (good as they were) came late to nearly half of our group (embarassingly enough, including Mr. and Mrs. McCall, the latter of whom had to settle for an entree she did not prefer just "to get something." Then we never got our dessert or coffee (though am glad to hear others say how good it was).

All in all, a great time, enjoyable to learn from the speakers, and see the guests in informal settings. It was especially nice to see how much they truly care for one another, a community unto itself -- Gene Cernan visiting Mrs. Evans on multiple occasions and bringing fresh glasses of wine to her and Mrs. McCall was very nice. Also a class touch I've not heard about elsewhere was Buzz Aldrin at Dr. Porco's talk. It was significant enough that he left his signing area at a main time of the day to attend and had some very kind words for her and her efforts to the audience after her talk. Very class act I thought.

One other important memory was that, after the Wonder of it All film, I made a special trip to the autograph area to see many of the people I had seen in the movie "in real life." Several were there, with one more joining the next day. Irreplaceable.

posted 08-21-2007 09:44 PM               

quote:

---

Originally posted by zee_aladdin:
Dr. Buzz spilled coffee on his Blackberry phone and it wasn't working correctly... he was trying to fix it while taking pictures with people and signing their stuff... he seemed a little upset that his phone stopped working. I feel for him!

---

I was also right in front of kosmo and family in the Dave Scott line- I'm sorry that you weren't able to get a picture, we felt so bad for you afterwards.

Overall though, we had an amazing time!!! I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed talking to all of the test pilots- what a great group of people! I agree alot with what has been said already: there was ample time to talk to the astronauts, they were all approachable and great conversationalists, Kim, Sally & the Novaspace team (especially Randy!) did an amazing job, and the whole experience was so much fun.

One last fun anecdote to share- we weren't sure at first if our cab driver took us to the right hotel (we had a hard time understanding him). We walk in not sure if we're in the right place, and who's right in front of us at the front desk waiting to check in??? John Young! Yep, we were in the right place at the right time indeed! Very cool.

We have many memories, pictures, and autographs that we will cherish forever! Thanks to everyone who contributed to our experience, and here's hoping there's more events like this in our future!

posted 08-21-2007 10:03 PM               

Kim Poor, Al Hallonquist, and company did a splendid job. I saw far too many friends to mention everybody, because I'd be sure to leave someone out. Everyone who was there was cool.

Rusty Schweickart, Charlie Duke, Jack Lousma, Gene Cernan, and Bruce McCandless were the big highlights for me among the astronauts. Great guys who didn't nickel and dime you. Rusty and Charlie went far and above in providing some terrific inscriptions. Joe Kerwin was extremely nice and easy to deal with. I hope to see him again.

I missed seeing Kris Stoever! Let me know when you get your copies of those obscure Mercury photos we talked about at KSC, Kris. I sent them along with Carpenter.

I loved the test pilots and was proud of my friends in the group of collectors who brought them to Phoenix. Ray McPherson, Ken Chilstrom, Bob Smyth, and Bob Cardenas were excellent guys and great breakfast and dinner companions.

At breakfast on Friday, Al invited us over to Chilstrom's table, and Bob Smyth joined a few minutes later. After some guy talk about baseball and the coming college football season over eggs and bacon, Smyth leans over to Chilstrom, and says, "Say, you're Ken Chilstrom, aren't you?" Chilstrom said he was. Smyth, 80 years young and sharp as a knife, then says, "I last saw you in 1948 when your squadron was sent over to Wright Field where I was based." The conversation took off from there, as we watched 60 years melt away at the reunion of two legendary aviators. I think that's about as good as it gets in the aviation/space world.

My good buddy David D'Angelo was kind enough to offer us his tickets to the dinner when he learned he wouldn't be able to attend. What a nice gift from a great guy. We sat with Bruce McCandless, who could not have been nicer to everyone he met. Thank you, David. Because of your absence, Bruce was happy to sign a photo to you and it'll be in the mail hopefully tomorrow. I owe you a case of Black Label (Just kidding).

The facility was great, the hotel was nice, and the air conditioning worked fine. Though Borman and McDivitt couldn't swing the date, I was really pleased with the "consolation signing" at the reduced prices. It was a good faith effort that went a long way in making up for their absences. That salvaged the situation for me in that I still will get everything signed that I had planned to get signed, so all is well that ended well. In the end, I didn't really mind. Stuff like this happens sometimes, and Kim and Al made up for it to my satisfaction.

I did like the academic twist to the show. I also enjoyed the artistic side. Calle was wonderful. The guy is very down to Earth. McCall had an ear to ear grin the whole time he was there. Great gallery. Linda, Lisa, Sally, Rob Gallagher...great people. Thanks to everybody!

posted 08-22-2007 07:55 AM               

For me highlights were:
· meeting so many people with whom I’ve corresponded, bought and sold over the years (too many to mention, but thank goodness for the name badges which should be a feature of every show).
· Being on Dave Scott’s table for dinner and being complimented on the quality of my questions!
· The post-banquet “session” with some other drunken bums. Mike Constantine has some very strange photos of the event.
· Being in the company of so many space and avaition pioneers - all of whom had time to chat with you. Especially nice to meet Joe Kerwin.
· Having some super chats with the TPs – all of whom are so modest.
. the overall diversity of the show with some outstanding talks.

I'd just like to thank Kim, Sally, the rest of the hard-working Novaspace team, Al, Gerry and others too many to mention for a super 3 days.

Paul Bramley