Four AM, 22 December 2005, my alarm went off. It was going to be a long day. I had two hours sleep and I was facing a twelve hour shift at the Arrest Processing Unit, Calgary Police Service. I worked as Civilian Support for the Calgary Police.
My routine was to check the street to see if there was any snow on the ground. Small blessing this morning, there was no snow.
I had not turned on any lights, however there was enough light from the street that I could see Sue sitting in the chair in the Bonus Room, where I had left her. I remember thinking that she was finally resting. I went down stairs to the kitchen and put the coffee on. With two hours sleep, I was going to need that caffine kick start.
I went back up to the Bonus Room, and looked as Sue. I was concerned that when my daughter, Angela woke up, her dog, a Shih Tzu, would jump on Sue and startle her. I thought I could walk Sue back to our bed and make her more comfortable.
To wake her up, I placed my hand over her wrist.
I was now fully awake and aware.
Her wrist felt cold. I placed my hand on her neck, her skin was cold and hard. She had no pulse. I turned the lights on and realized that there was nothing I could do. I was too late.
I wish I could describe how I felt. The closest I can approximate is my reality shattered. My legs buckled and I collapsed on the floor. Breathing was an effort. I was numb, physically and emotionally. I knew I had to pull myself together. I had to think of Angela and I had to look after Sue.
Calling 911 seemed like a waste of time. There was no emergency, I was too late. My best friend was sitting in a chair. She had died while I was sleeping in the next room. Some protector I was. Sue had died on my watch and I had failed her.
I called the 911 operator. Taking Joe Friday's advice, I gave just the facts. My wife had passed during the night, my name and my address. Did I really need to give my address? The 911 operator should have call display.
My next thought was that I was not going to working my shift at the Arrest Processing Unit. I called the "office", and told them I would not be coming in because my had died during the night.
A police car was at my door within moments of my calls. I hadn't expected that. I thought that I was going to be arrested for being negligent with Sue. I felt I deserved to be taken out in handcuffs. The officer who attended told me that they had been sent to my house because I worked at the Arrest Processing Unit. It was the APU who requested they attend.
The EMS techs arrived shortly after the police. Small consolation, they confirmed my assessment. There was nothing I could have done for Sue. She had been dead for at least an hour when I had found her.
After they had taken Sue away, I woke up my daughter. Another reinforcement on my new reality. I wanted to be as gentle as I could. I told Angela that Sue was gone.
"Gone where?"
Be strong, set the example, for God's sake do NOT break down. Angela was sixteen and had not had to face this situation.
I told her that Sue had passed away during the night.
My day was just beginning.
Sue's funeral was scheduled for the 28th of December. Six days after her passing. This was becoming a logistical nightmare.
The worst possible time to die is just before Christmas. Most of our family and friends were back east. Sue was from Montreal and the majority of our friends were in Halifax. I made the calls to Sue's family. Her passing was so sudden and so unexpected.
I made a posting to the Club; very Klingon - "Effective this date, Qoneqo has joined the Black Fleet."
The Black Fleet being the place fallen Klingon Warriors go. Klingon Heaven.
We had only been in Calgary for three years, so our network of friends was minimal.
Only one person was able to get a seat on a plane for her funeral, my sister Julie. She flew in from Moncton. I still do not know how she managed it.
Karen was in Victoria. When she heard, she drove to Calgary, non-stop. By the time she arrived I was a wreck. She arrived in the early evening of the twenty-fourth, with a bottle of Macallan's scotch. We toasted Sue, and I think I drank most of that bottle. As I recall, Karen was the last man standing on that Christmas Eve, 2005.
James, posted this tribute for Sue on his web site. http://www.ikcvktan.org /Sue/Sue%20Larose.htm If you have been following this blog, you will recognize some of the photos.
Another source of support was Jason. He called me every day from Halifax over Christmas and until the funeral. I haven't had a chance to really thank him for his support. I think he knows how much I appreciate him.
The next event that I was to attend was Galaxy Fest in Vulcan. There was a tribute for Sue planned. I did not want to put my costume on. Too many memories.
Sue and I had always "leathered up" together. I would help her with her costume, she would help me with mine. We would discuss the event, the people at the event, some mischief we would pull on some of the people. Cons and events past. Future Cons and events. Putting the costume on was now - painful.
When I was in Vulcan, I had the opportunity to talk with Casey Biggs and Vaughn Armstron. They were the guest stars that year. They both encouraged me, strongly, to continue on with my involvement in Fandom.
At the time, I was not ready to commit. I left early on Saturday night, as I had not taken time off for Galaxy Fest. I missed the planned tribute for Sue.
The members of Edmonton's IKV Swifthawk, made this for me. Another one of my treasures.
Wednesday 28 September 2011
Thursday 30 June 2011
A Klingon In Paradise - Part 3
In November 2004 we took possession of our new house. It was the first time Sue had owned a home. She was excited and proud of what we had accomplished. Just prior to taking possession, while we were waiting for the possession date and the lawyer, Sue asked me what it was like to be a homeowner.
We were still coming to terms with the magnitude of what we had managed to accomplish. The only answer I could give her was, "when you invite someone over to 'your house', I'm going to ask you what it is like being a homeowner".
It was just after New Years 2005, I overheard her talking on the phone inviting a couple of our friends over for dinner. When she hung up, I asked her what it was like to be a homeowner. Her eyes misted over and she hugged me.
My daughter Angela was visiting and caught the moment.
On the 18 January, I went to Vulcan to meet with Michelle Becker, who was the Tourism Trek Coordinator at the time. Michelle wanted to talk to me about the upcoming Galaxy Fest. She had a short list of Guest Stars, and wanted my input. She had been talking to Robert O'Reilly and J.G. Hertzler.
This was the first time that I had been asked who I wanted as a Guest Star. Michelle was bringing in actors who had portrayed Klingon characters for Klingon Fans. I was thrilled.
When I got home I told Sue about the conversation I had had with Michelle. June and Galaxy Fest seemed a long way off that night.
I think it was a couple of weeks later, I received a phone call from Rob Uhrig. I had not talked with Rob for a few years, and was surprised when I heard his voice. Rob wanted to know if I would be interested in becoming a member in The Order of St George. I was being recognized for the work I had done in Halifax supporting different charities and organizations. Rob and Jason Hemsworth had already been recognized and wanted to include both Sue and me.
Sue and I both could not afford the trip together, so it was decided that I would go first and Sue would be invested as a Dame in 2006.
On the 14 May 2005, I was inducted into the Order of St George at Niagara Falls, Ontario.
It was fun being invested. Very formal - black tie. My usual formal attire is a Klingon suit, complete with latex forehead and hair. I was socializing with Members of Parliament, Members of the Ontario Legislative Assembly and I think there was an odd General or two. The last time I had been even close this illustrious a group, I was in the Military and acting as a server at an Officer's Mess Dinner. The difference this night was I was having the time of my life. My only regret was that Sue was not with me, I was missing her and was already anticipating the stories I would be telling her.
When Rob and I get together, it turns into a giggle-fest or outright belly-laughs. We have a shared history and love telling our stories. That night, as had become our habit, we had an audience as we re-told our stories.
About three weeks after the Investiture, we were getting ready for Galaxy Fest in Vulcan. Doug Welsh, who had replaced me as the Ice Dragon Fleet Commander for Eastern Canada and Debbie Hodgeson from Ontario, had traveled to Calgary to join us.
I had a concern that they would be disappointed by what Vulcan had to offer. Debbie and Doug are both seasoned and sophisticated Canadian Con veterans. By the standards set by Cons in Toronto, Vulcan is small.
I think Debbie summed it up quite well, she told us that Galaxy Fest had a family feel to it.
On Friday night at the Meet-N-Greet, the Throne Of Kahless was on display. We were serving Warnog. Both Robert O'Reilly and J.G. Hertzler were inducted as Warnog Warriors.
When I was working on the MarFest committee in 1996, the first year, we had tried to get Robert as a guest star. that fell through. Nine years later, it was worth the wait.
One of the events held at Vulcan's Galaxy Fest is the Klingon Fear Factor. On a whim, Sue entered and won. the prize was a BBQ.
One of the first people Sue had met in Calgary is James. James had helped us get the IKV K'Tan off the ground, and had been very supportive of us. We wanted to do something special for him. We had acquired a resin kit of the 'blaster' used on the original Battlestar Galactica television series. We had planned to give it to James at Galaxy Fest at our room party.
We had invited both Robert and J.G. to the party, however Robert had to leave the Con early. J.G. agreed to attend. I wanted to make the presentation of the blaster as memorable as possible for James, so I asked J.G. to make the presentation to James.
James had just bought a jacket based on the uniforms worn on the television series and Sue had asked James to wear his jacket to the room party.
When James arrived, J.G. asked him about the jacket, and James prouldy told how he had bought it on e-bay.
J.G. asked James if he was concerned about the infringement on licensing by being in possession of the jacket and the consequences of his actions. James was getting visibly getting upset, his face got red, he broke out in a sweat and his hands were shaking. J.G. finally said that he had no alternative but give him "this", and produced the blaster from behind his back. I think James thought he was going to be shot. It took a while for him to understand that he was being given the blaster.
On Sunday evening, June 12, when we were home from Vulcan Sue asked me if I could feel a lump in her breast. I could not detect anything unusual. I asked if she was going to get it checked out. She was not too concerned and said she would get a mammogram.
On the 13th of August Sue got a blood test and that was followed up on the 24th of August with a mammogram and ultra sound. These confirmed that there was "something", however it required a biopsy and that was scheduled for the 13th of September.
On the 27th of September we had a consultation with her surgeon, who confirmed that she in fact had a tumor. The tumor was less than a centimeter in diameter, and he did not foresee any real problems with her treatment. Sue had caught it in the very early stages. He gave us worse case scenario's, however he also was optimistic in a positive outcome.
As we left his office, Sue turned to me and said, "I don't want to die".
Based on what was said in the Doctor's office, I told her that I was not going to let that happen. This is perhaps the most significant promise, besides our wedding vows that I had ever made, and the only one I was not able to keep.
On the 5th of October, Sue had the surgery to remove the tumor.
Sue was determined that she was going to get back on her feet as soon as possible. She did not want to be an invalid. She had made arrangements to be back to work on the 27th. We also planned to be in Vulcan on the 29th.
A pilot was being shot at the Vulcan Trek Station and we had been asked to attend and wear our costumes. Sue was in good spirits, she had had her first chemo treatment, and did not feel all that bad.
We were there for 5:30 pm and the shoot went until 02:00 am. We both went in expecting to be extra's. When we arrived we were given 'sides', or pages to read. We had speaking parts.
Sue and I had worked as extras, the most recent being the set of Tom Stone. We were both surprised when they asked us to read lines.
One of the enticements to keep the people in the Trek Station was the serving of alcohol. They wanted the set to be relaxed, by 02:00 the set was extremely relaxed.
When we were driving back to Calgary that night, Sue asked me why we did not move to Vulcan when we moved to Alberta. I did not have an answer.
On the 10 of December, we were invited to a taping of "Big Show For A Small Town", in Vulcan. Footage had been shot during Galaxy Fest, and the footage was being built around this dinner.
It was the next day that Sue asked me to shave her head. Her brush was pulling her hair out. She did not want patches of hair on her head.
I asked why she wanted me to shave her head, and she told me that she did not trust herself with a razor. She told me that she knew I would be careful and gentle and not nick her scalp.
Sue was already planning on how she could use her new look at a Con. She was considering going as a blue Bolian and perhaps Lt Ilia the Deltan from Star Trek the Motion Picture.
Sue was not able to return to work. The chemo treatments were too much for her.
December 22, just after midnight, Sue was uncomfortable trying to sleep. She complained that her back was bothering her. This was not unusual, as she was often bothered by back pain. She credited that with her time in the Military.
We spent time sitting by the fireplace, and discussed our plans for finishing the house. Landscaping and a deck. We also discussed the furniture we wanted to put in the house. This was not the first time we had discussed this topic. It was our way of dreaming and passing time.
At around 02:00 am, Sue told me to get some sleep, as I had to get up at 04:30 to go to work. She was sitting in the bonus room. I got her a blanket and a toque. I gave her a kiss on her cheek; she held my hand, smiled and said, "you're the best".
When I got up at 04:30, she was gone.
Sue had caught a virus and her lack of immune system had been the cause of her passing. It was not the cancer that killed her, it was the cure.
We were still coming to terms with the magnitude of what we had managed to accomplish. The only answer I could give her was, "when you invite someone over to 'your house', I'm going to ask you what it is like being a homeowner".
It was just after New Years 2005, I overheard her talking on the phone inviting a couple of our friends over for dinner. When she hung up, I asked her what it was like to be a homeowner. Her eyes misted over and she hugged me.
My daughter Angela was visiting and caught the moment.
On the 18 January, I went to Vulcan to meet with Michelle Becker, who was the Tourism Trek Coordinator at the time. Michelle wanted to talk to me about the upcoming Galaxy Fest. She had a short list of Guest Stars, and wanted my input. She had been talking to Robert O'Reilly and J.G. Hertzler.
This was the first time that I had been asked who I wanted as a Guest Star. Michelle was bringing in actors who had portrayed Klingon characters for Klingon Fans. I was thrilled.
When I got home I told Sue about the conversation I had had with Michelle. June and Galaxy Fest seemed a long way off that night.
 |
| Rob Uhrig (my Evil Twin) and me. |
Sue and I both could not afford the trip together, so it was decided that I would go first and Sue would be invested as a Dame in 2006.
On the 14 May 2005, I was inducted into the Order of St George at Niagara Falls, Ontario.
It was fun being invested. Very formal - black tie. My usual formal attire is a Klingon suit, complete with latex forehead and hair. I was socializing with Members of Parliament, Members of the Ontario Legislative Assembly and I think there was an odd General or two. The last time I had been even close this illustrious a group, I was in the Military and acting as a server at an Officer's Mess Dinner. The difference this night was I was having the time of my life. My only regret was that Sue was not with me, I was missing her and was already anticipating the stories I would be telling her.
When Rob and I get together, it turns into a giggle-fest or outright belly-laughs. We have a shared history and love telling our stories. That night, as had become our habit, we had an audience as we re-told our stories.
 | |
| Doug Welsh and Debbie Hodgeson |
I had a concern that they would be disappointed by what Vulcan had to offer. Debbie and Doug are both seasoned and sophisticated Canadian Con veterans. By the standards set by Cons in Toronto, Vulcan is small.
I think Debbie summed it up quite well, she told us that Galaxy Fest had a family feel to it.
When I was working on the MarFest committee in 1996, the first year, we had tried to get Robert as a guest star. that fell through. Nine years later, it was worth the wait.
 |
| Sue winning the Klingon Fear Factor |
One of the events held at Vulcan's Galaxy Fest is the Klingon Fear Factor. On a whim, Sue entered and won. the prize was a BBQ.
One of the first people Sue had met in Calgary is James. James had helped us get the IKV K'Tan off the ground, and had been very supportive of us. We wanted to do something special for him. We had acquired a resin kit of the 'blaster' used on the original Battlestar Galactica television series. We had planned to give it to James at Galaxy Fest at our room party.
We had invited both Robert and J.G. to the party, however Robert had to leave the Con early. J.G. agreed to attend. I wanted to make the presentation of the blaster as memorable as possible for James, so I asked J.G. to make the presentation to James.James had just bought a jacket based on the uniforms worn on the television series and Sue had asked James to wear his jacket to the room party.
When James arrived, J.G. asked him about the jacket, and James prouldy told how he had bought it on e-bay.
J.G. asked James if he was concerned about the infringement on licensing by being in possession of the jacket and the consequences of his actions. James was getting visibly getting upset, his face got red, he broke out in a sweat and his hands were shaking. J.G. finally said that he had no alternative but give him "this", and produced the blaster from behind his back. I think James thought he was going to be shot. It took a while for him to understand that he was being given the blaster.
On Sunday evening, June 12, when we were home from Vulcan Sue asked me if I could feel a lump in her breast. I could not detect anything unusual. I asked if she was going to get it checked out. She was not too concerned and said she would get a mammogram.
On the 13th of August Sue got a blood test and that was followed up on the 24th of August with a mammogram and ultra sound. These confirmed that there was "something", however it required a biopsy and that was scheduled for the 13th of September.
On the 27th of September we had a consultation with her surgeon, who confirmed that she in fact had a tumor. The tumor was less than a centimeter in diameter, and he did not foresee any real problems with her treatment. Sue had caught it in the very early stages. He gave us worse case scenario's, however he also was optimistic in a positive outcome.
As we left his office, Sue turned to me and said, "I don't want to die".
Based on what was said in the Doctor's office, I told her that I was not going to let that happen. This is perhaps the most significant promise, besides our wedding vows that I had ever made, and the only one I was not able to keep.
On the 5th of October, Sue had the surgery to remove the tumor.
 |
| Paul & Sue on "set" Vulcan Trek Station 29 October |
A pilot was being shot at the Vulcan Trek Station and we had been asked to attend and wear our costumes. Sue was in good spirits, she had had her first chemo treatment, and did not feel all that bad.
Sue and I had worked as extras, the most recent being the set of Tom Stone. We were both surprised when they asked us to read lines.
One of the enticements to keep the people in the Trek Station was the serving of alcohol. They wanted the set to be relaxed, by 02:00 the set was extremely relaxed.
When we were driving back to Calgary that night, Sue asked me why we did not move to Vulcan when we moved to Alberta. I did not have an answer.
It was the next day that Sue asked me to shave her head. Her brush was pulling her hair out. She did not want patches of hair on her head.
I asked why she wanted me to shave her head, and she told me that she did not trust herself with a razor. She told me that she knew I would be careful and gentle and not nick her scalp.
Sue was already planning on how she could use her new look at a Con. She was considering going as a blue Bolian and perhaps Lt Ilia the Deltan from Star Trek the Motion Picture.
Sue was not able to return to work. The chemo treatments were too much for her.
December 22, just after midnight, Sue was uncomfortable trying to sleep. She complained that her back was bothering her. This was not unusual, as she was often bothered by back pain. She credited that with her time in the Military.
We spent time sitting by the fireplace, and discussed our plans for finishing the house. Landscaping and a deck. We also discussed the furniture we wanted to put in the house. This was not the first time we had discussed this topic. It was our way of dreaming and passing time.
At around 02:00 am, Sue told me to get some sleep, as I had to get up at 04:30 to go to work. She was sitting in the bonus room. I got her a blanket and a toque. I gave her a kiss on her cheek; she held my hand, smiled and said, "you're the best".
When I got up at 04:30, she was gone.
Sue had caught a virus and her lack of immune system had been the cause of her passing. It was not the cancer that killed her, it was the cure.
Friday 24 June 2011
A Klingon In Paradise - Part 2
After the successes of Conversion and Galaxy Fest in 2003, Sue and I were motivated to build a new ship in Calgary. Following the model we had established in Halifax, Sue was able to secure a meeting room at the Harry Hays building.
Sue was not able to do this on her own, however she was able to find an employee who would sponsor her.
We were back in a conference room. We had access to Audio-Visual, computer hook ups, a digital projector, conference table and a white board. We would meet every two weeks. Our first goal was to build membership. Sue and I wanted to put face painting at the top of our list of priorities.
Calgary is about four times the size of Halifax, and Sue and I saw opportunities for growing a new ship. We named the ship the K'Tan, after the founder of KAG Kanada. That was John Gannon's Klingon name.
While we were planning for the 2004 Galaxy Fest, we became friends with the Trek Coordinator in Vulcan, Michelle Becker. During the course of conversation, we were invited to provide a Klingon Honor Guard for the Guest Star, Marina Sirtis. When it was announced that Marina was going to be the Guest Of Honor at Vulcan, we were both surprised and excited at the prospect of meeting her in Vulcan.
Sue and I started to 'drill' with Bat'leths for the Honor Guard. Michelle, at the last minute, decided against an armed Honor Guard. However, we were ready!
One of the unique features of Vulcan is that there has not been a "peace bonding" policy in place. In all of the conventions I have attended, all 'weapons' have to be peace bonded.
Peace bonding a weapon means that the weapon is secured in such a fashion that makes it very difficult to take it out of its sheath.
The knives and Disruptor (alien space gun) that are part of my costume are secured with heavy plastic cable ties. Carrying a weapon such as a Bat'leth is not allowed. They can be displayed in a society room, or used as part of an approved demonstration, but not allowed to be carried in the open as part of the convention.
There have been incidents where "weapons" have been inappropriately brandished at conventions. In Vulcan this has not been an issue; yet.
Because Vulcan is so small a town, Galaxy Fest/Spock Days is very unusual. The population of Vulcan is Seventeen hundred people.
The fact that Vulcan is so small, and the number of people attracted to Vulcan would be far less than any Con I had previously been associated with, meant that we would have more quality time with the Guest of Honor.
This photo was taken at the Friday Night Meet and Greet. One of Sue's goals at Cons was to have a photo taken with the Guest Stars. She was thrilled to have the opportunity to have time to pose for this photograph. It also reinforced our commitment to return to Vulcan on a regular basis.
The costume that Sue is wearing, is the first costume she ever wore at a Con. This is how I first saw her at MarFest 96. It was packed away for eight years.
Two of the K'Tan members, Pam and Ron, approached Sue and I about getting married in Vulcan as Klingons. They wanted the ceremony in Klingon. We thought that was an outrageous idea. I asked Ron if he realized how much of a media frenzy that would create. Ron said he was aware of that and that he and Pam did not mind. They had had so much fun at the Galaxy Fests in 2003 and 2004 that they wanted to get married in costume in Vulcan.
We called the Trek Station in Vulcan and talked with Michelle, the Tourism and Trek Coordinator. Of course she thought that was a great idea. We started planning for the wedding. Pam and Ron found a Klingon "Cleric", and a Marriage Commissioner, Alberta's equivalent of a Justice Of The Peace, was brought in to make sure it was legal.
One of the glitches was a news crew from The A Channel in Edmonton, arrived just after the Wedding Ceremony. We had to re stage the events. The actual wedding was a dress rehearsal for the camera's. The Marriage Commissioner was not needed for the re enactment.
Michelle, was contacted by talk shows and news organizations from North America. They were contacted from California to New York, as well as Canadian media outlets.
Ron hasn't spoken to me in some time. The last time we talked he told me he was still being recognized on the streets in Calgary, as the guy who got married in Vulcan.
2004 was also a time of personal growth for Sue and I. We built our home in Calgary. When we moved to Calgary, we were renting a duplex. It was a nice house, two bedroom. Each bedroom had its own en-suite. Because we did not have children, we thought that was an amazing idea for guests. When we were planning our home we modified the plans of a three bedroom house to a two. Two bedrooms, each with their own en-suite.
One night, while we were living in the duplex, I made the comment to Sue, that if we were to put the money we spent on rent into a mortgage, we could actually use the mortgage as a way to save money. I think at that point, Sue was on a mission.
This was very significant for us, as we both had been living in Military housing and then renting for most of our lives.
Sue was not able to do this on her own, however she was able to find an employee who would sponsor her.
Calgary is about four times the size of Halifax, and Sue and I saw opportunities for growing a new ship. We named the ship the K'Tan, after the founder of KAG Kanada. That was John Gannon's Klingon name.
While we were planning for the 2004 Galaxy Fest, we became friends with the Trek Coordinator in Vulcan, Michelle Becker. During the course of conversation, we were invited to provide a Klingon Honor Guard for the Guest Star, Marina Sirtis. When it was announced that Marina was going to be the Guest Of Honor at Vulcan, we were both surprised and excited at the prospect of meeting her in Vulcan.
One of the unique features of Vulcan is that there has not been a "peace bonding" policy in place. In all of the conventions I have attended, all 'weapons' have to be peace bonded.
Peace bonding a weapon means that the weapon is secured in such a fashion that makes it very difficult to take it out of its sheath.
The knives and Disruptor (alien space gun) that are part of my costume are secured with heavy plastic cable ties. Carrying a weapon such as a Bat'leth is not allowed. They can be displayed in a society room, or used as part of an approved demonstration, but not allowed to be carried in the open as part of the convention.
There have been incidents where "weapons" have been inappropriately brandished at conventions. In Vulcan this has not been an issue; yet.Because Vulcan is so small a town, Galaxy Fest/Spock Days is very unusual. The population of Vulcan is Seventeen hundred people.
The fact that Vulcan is so small, and the number of people attracted to Vulcan would be far less than any Con I had previously been associated with, meant that we would have more quality time with the Guest of Honor.
 | |
| Sue and Marina Sirtis |
The costume that Sue is wearing, is the first costume she ever wore at a Con. This is how I first saw her at MarFest 96. It was packed away for eight years.
 |
| August 01, 2004 |
 |
| Klingon Wedding Cake |
 |
| Michelle and the A Channel reporter. |
Michelle, was contacted by talk shows and news organizations from North America. They were contacted from California to New York, as well as Canadian media outlets.
Ron hasn't spoken to me in some time. The last time we talked he told me he was still being recognized on the streets in Calgary, as the guy who got married in Vulcan.
2004 was also a time of personal growth for Sue and I. We built our home in Calgary. When we moved to Calgary, we were renting a duplex. It was a nice house, two bedroom. Each bedroom had its own en-suite. Because we did not have children, we thought that was an amazing idea for guests. When we were planning our home we modified the plans of a three bedroom house to a two. Two bedrooms, each with their own en-suite.One night, while we were living in the duplex, I made the comment to Sue, that if we were to put the money we spent on rent into a mortgage, we could actually use the mortgage as a way to save money. I think at that point, Sue was on a mission.
This was very significant for us, as we both had been living in Military housing and then renting for most of our lives.
Thursday 9 June 2011
A Klingon In Paradise Part 1
What do I write about next? I thought that I had reached the end of "my" story. Then Elizabeth suggested I write about my association with Vulcan Alberta.
In 2002, Sue and I moved to Calgary. I have moved eight times in twelve years, from Comox to Halifax and back to Calgary. I hate moving.
I am a pack rat, as was Sue. We didn't just have stuff, we had our treasures.
When I met Sue, we combined my belongings with hers. We lived in an apartment in Bedford, and the dining room was floor to ceiling boxes.
In 2002, after our successful House Hunting Trip, we contacted the Military, and proceeded to make arrangements to load up the truck, and move to Calgary.
Our first home in Calgary was a duplex. But it had a basement. We now had a place to store our stuff.
When we arrived in Calgary, the only people we knew were my daughter Angela and my ex wife.
Sue and I were fortunate that we got along with my ex. Our relationship with her was cordial, even friendly. My ex was very helpful in our settling in.
Sue and I went to work for the Canadian Corps Of Commissionaires. Sue worked at the Harry Hays Building in Calgary. Her function was to work the Information Desk. Sue's major qualification was her bilingualism, in a predominantly English part of Canada.
One day, while Sue was taking care of some administration, she met James. James recognized the Bath'lets on Sue's SonchIy jacket. James turned out to be a fan of Science Fiction and wanted to know more about Sue, me and the SonchIy. The beginnings of the IKV K'Tan were taking shape.
We also started attending committee meetings for the Calgary Science Fiction Convention, Conversion. Sue and I would take over Registration Desk for the Convention.
The highlight for us was hosting a BBQ after the Con with Dorothy (D.C.) Fontana and Dennis Skotak at our home. Sue and I invited Dorothy and Dennis to Conversion XX. Sue and I had worked with Dorothy at MarFest in 1997, and we had maintained a dialog since then.
In June of 2003, Sue and I attended our first Galaxy Fest/Spock Days in Vulcan Alberta. We had heard about it, but not much was known. The only person we had met up until this time, who had actually attended a Galaxy Fest/Spock Days con was James. From what he described, it sounded more like a street festival. Sue and I were curious, so we decided to attend.
We arrived on Friday morning. The first event was a Meet and Greet at the Trek Station, scheduled for six or seven in the evening.
I was curious about the Trek Station.
In 1988, while stationed in Wainwright Alberta, I had been involved in a provincial initiative called The Tourism Action Plan. I lived in a small town, Irma, west of Wainwright. The purpose of the Tourism Action Plan was to provide funding for small communities to promote their communities.
A few examples of what is promoted are Vegreville. This town boasts the "Worlds Largest Easter Egg". St Paul has the "UFO Landing Pad". Vauxhall has the town's mascots Sammy and Samantha Spud and claims to be the Potato Capital of the West. And of course Vulcan has the association with Star Trek.
When I was in Irma, I had heard about the plans to link the town of Vulcan to Star Trek. At that time Star Trek The Next Generation was being aired and was very popular. I was enough of a fan that I was a little green with envy.
Our first stop was the Trek Station. I was very skeptical. This building could not possibly host a Science Fiction con. It is just too small. Every Science Fiction and Trade convention I had attended had been in a hotel. I wanted to see how they would make this happen.
We looked at the different displays, talked to the staff and decided to go for a walk into the town. One thing I do like about small towns is just how friendly the people are. In one store that we went into, the lady behind the counter told us that when The Next Generation was playing, the town had sent a letter to Paramount asking that Vulcan Alberta be mentioned on an episode. The reply they received was that Vulcan was a copyrighted name, and the town would have to change the name. The town was incorporated in 1913, and that was not going to happen.
It was back to the motel for dinner and then change into our costumes.
When we went into the Trek Station, Sue and I were challenged by the Klingon K'Rau. He came up to me, demanding to know who I was. I told him that I was the Senior Command Officer of KAG Kanada.
K'Rau challenged me three times. I was beginning to believe that he had comprehension problems. There had not been a representative of KAG Kanada in attendance at a Galaxy Fest/Spock Days before, and to meet the Senior Command Officer was totally unexpected.
When this picture was taken, I was becoming irritated and I think Sue was too.
At this convention we met Mike Kerr. He asked us to pose with him. Mike was in the process of writing a book about the towns of Alberta. As I write this, my copy is in storage.
I think this photo was used in his book, What's So Funny About Alberta".
Sue and I were interviewed by a couple of local newspapers, and our introduction to Vulcan was, for a couple of media sluts, great.
There are two classes of Sci-Fi/Fantasy Cons. These are Fan run conventions and Creation Conventions. The Fan run conventions are by the fans for the fans. Their stated goal is not-for-profit. The Creation Con is for profit, and are more expensive.
Galaxy Fest/Spock Days is unique. This is part of the Tourism mandate of the town and county of Vulcan. Instead of hosting the Convention in a building, such as a hotel, the events are hosted in the town. The CRC or Community Resource Center, the Legion, the school, the Trek Station all host events.
Scheduling is sequential. There are not multiple events happening at the same time, so conflicts in programming are not an issue.
On the Friday evening, there is a Meet and Greet. The Guest Stars are brought into the Trek Station. There is a bar and finger foods are provided.
On Saturday mornings of Galaxy Fest/Spock days a Pancake Breakfast is provided. Later in the morning there is a parade. The community, Guest Stars and fans all participate. Saturday evening there is a Banquet, usually themed.
Sue and I were hooked. Vulcan was definitely on our "come-back" list.
In 2002, Sue and I moved to Calgary. I have moved eight times in twelve years, from Comox to Halifax and back to Calgary. I hate moving.
When I met Sue, we combined my belongings with hers. We lived in an apartment in Bedford, and the dining room was floor to ceiling boxes.
In 2002, after our successful House Hunting Trip, we contacted the Military, and proceeded to make arrangements to load up the truck, and move to Calgary.
Our first home in Calgary was a duplex. But it had a basement. We now had a place to store our stuff.
When we arrived in Calgary, the only people we knew were my daughter Angela and my ex wife.
Sue and I were fortunate that we got along with my ex. Our relationship with her was cordial, even friendly. My ex was very helpful in our settling in.
Sue and I went to work for the Canadian Corps Of Commissionaires. Sue worked at the Harry Hays Building in Calgary. Her function was to work the Information Desk. Sue's major qualification was her bilingualism, in a predominantly English part of Canada.
One day, while Sue was taking care of some administration, she met James. James recognized the Bath'lets on Sue's SonchIy jacket. James turned out to be a fan of Science Fiction and wanted to know more about Sue, me and the SonchIy. The beginnings of the IKV K'Tan were taking shape.
 |
The highlight for us was hosting a BBQ after the Con with Dorothy (D.C.) Fontana and Dennis Skotak at our home. Sue and I invited Dorothy and Dennis to Conversion XX. Sue and I had worked with Dorothy at MarFest in 1997, and we had maintained a dialog since then.
 |
| Dennis Skotak and Dorothy Fontana second and third from the left. |
In June of 2003, Sue and I attended our first Galaxy Fest/Spock Days in Vulcan Alberta. We had heard about it, but not much was known. The only person we had met up until this time, who had actually attended a Galaxy Fest/Spock Days con was James. From what he described, it sounded more like a street festival. Sue and I were curious, so we decided to attend.
We arrived on Friday morning. The first event was a Meet and Greet at the Trek Station, scheduled for six or seven in the evening.
I was curious about the Trek Station.
In 1988, while stationed in Wainwright Alberta, I had been involved in a provincial initiative called The Tourism Action Plan. I lived in a small town, Irma, west of Wainwright. The purpose of the Tourism Action Plan was to provide funding for small communities to promote their communities.
A few examples of what is promoted are Vegreville. This town boasts the "Worlds Largest Easter Egg". St Paul has the "UFO Landing Pad". Vauxhall has the town's mascots Sammy and Samantha Spud and claims to be the Potato Capital of the West. And of course Vulcan has the association with Star Trek.
When I was in Irma, I had heard about the plans to link the town of Vulcan to Star Trek. At that time Star Trek The Next Generation was being aired and was very popular. I was enough of a fan that I was a little green with envy.
Our first stop was the Trek Station. I was very skeptical. This building could not possibly host a Science Fiction con. It is just too small. Every Science Fiction and Trade convention I had attended had been in a hotel. I wanted to see how they would make this happen.
We looked at the different displays, talked to the staff and decided to go for a walk into the town. One thing I do like about small towns is just how friendly the people are. In one store that we went into, the lady behind the counter told us that when The Next Generation was playing, the town had sent a letter to Paramount asking that Vulcan Alberta be mentioned on an episode. The reply they received was that Vulcan was a copyrighted name, and the town would have to change the name. The town was incorporated in 1913, and that was not going to happen.
It was back to the motel for dinner and then change into our costumes.
 |
| Kat, Sue, Paul and Jaymz. |
K'Rau challenged me three times. I was beginning to believe that he had comprehension problems. There had not been a representative of KAG Kanada in attendance at a Galaxy Fest/Spock Days before, and to meet the Senior Command Officer was totally unexpected.
When this picture was taken, I was becoming irritated and I think Sue was too.
At this convention we met Mike Kerr. He asked us to pose with him. Mike was in the process of writing a book about the towns of Alberta. As I write this, my copy is in storage.
I think this photo was used in his book, What's So Funny About Alberta".
Sue and I were interviewed by a couple of local newspapers, and our introduction to Vulcan was, for a couple of media sluts, great.
There are two classes of Sci-Fi/Fantasy Cons. These are Fan run conventions and Creation Conventions. The Fan run conventions are by the fans for the fans. Their stated goal is not-for-profit. The Creation Con is for profit, and are more expensive.
Galaxy Fest/Spock Days is unique. This is part of the Tourism mandate of the town and county of Vulcan. Instead of hosting the Convention in a building, such as a hotel, the events are hosted in the town. The CRC or Community Resource Center, the Legion, the school, the Trek Station all host events.
Scheduling is sequential. There are not multiple events happening at the same time, so conflicts in programming are not an issue.
On the Friday evening, there is a Meet and Greet. The Guest Stars are brought into the Trek Station. There is a bar and finger foods are provided.
On Saturday mornings of Galaxy Fest/Spock days a Pancake Breakfast is provided. Later in the morning there is a parade. The community, Guest Stars and fans all participate. Saturday evening there is a Banquet, usually themed.
Sue and I were hooked. Vulcan was definitely on our "come-back" list.
Tuesday 24 May 2011
A Klingon at the Aurora Awards
A Klingon winning the Aurora has been done before. Bernard Reischl won in the category of Fan Achievement at Toronto Trek in 2000. When I first heard that Bernie had been nominated for the award, I did not know what an Aurora was. I had flown in the Aurora aircraft a few times when I was posted to Comox.
I remember being pleased that Bernie had been recognized for his work as the Commanding Officer KAG Kanada. I did not truly understand the significance of the award. Sue/Q'Oneqo and I had been in attendance at Toronto Trek 14. Larry Stewart was nominated for an Aurora award, and had told us that over dinner, prior to the presentations.
I had met Larry on a couple of occasions in Halifax, at the two MarFests I had worked on. Larry had been the Master Of Ceremonies at those Conventions. Larry is one of those people that commands attention and attracts those around him. He is a very accomplished impersonator, and having a conversation with Larry is most entertaining.
Sue and I went to the awards presentation, and I was surprised to hear Bernie's name mentioned at the presentation ceremony as one of those nominated and then to hear that he had won the award was another surprise. I had not known that Bernie was nominated.
It wasn't until 2006, when I realized just how much Sue had been influenced by the Aurora Awards Presentation.
The year 2000 was a very significant year for Sue and me. It was the year we both retired from the Military and it was the year we were married. Another story.
We started discussing where we wanted to live. Calgary was very prominent. Sue had not spent any time in Calgary, other than to land at the airport to get to Banff, in the mountains. She did like the mountains.
My daughter, Angela, lived in Calgary with her mother. I missed her very much. We had been bringing Angela to Halifax at least once a year while she was growing up. We thought that it would suit our life styles being closer to Angela.
In 2001 I became aware of a covert operation within KAG Kanada. It was very subtle. Conversations would cease or abruptly change direction when I approached a group of people. I had just been appointed Senior Command Officer of KAG Kanada, and I was feeling very distanced from those who I had been close to. This new ostracism by my friends was not pleasant.
We were using Yahoo groups for club purposes, and things were said or hinted at that started raising my suspicions. Sue and I had a talk about this one night. I asked her what was going on. When it came to KAG Kanada, I wanted to know what was going on.
At first Sue was very innocent, but as I pressured her, her demeanor changed and she told me emphatically to mind my own business. I was caught off guard. She told me that if I were to keep digging I would uncover what was going to be meant as a surprise.
Sue reminded me of what I had been preaching for years, recognition. Sue told me that the club wanted to recognize me in a very special way, and if I continued to dig I would spoil their fun and ruin what they were working towards. This was one of those "Jiminy Cricket" moments when I had to shut up and listen - for my own good.
From then on, when the conversation stopped, or when Sue 'guided' me away from a group of Klingons, I went willingly, not asking any questions.
When the nominations were announced, the light went on and I had my answer. I had been nominated for the Aurora Fan Achievement category. My head swelled so much, my latex forehead no longer fit. It was a thrill. I don't know who was prouder, me or Sue.
The awards were to be handed out in Calgary at Conversion, August 09 2002.
Sue and I were entitled to a 'House Hunting Trip' as part of our retirement benefit from the Military. We decided to combine our entitlement with Conversion. We would combine our entitlement with the Aurora Award Ceremony.
I wanted to do something special with my daughter. Sue and I decided to surprise her with our appearance in Calgary. We wanted to do something that would be memorable, besides just showing up on her doorstep.
I hatched a plan, that I thought would be rather fun. I called Angela from Halifax and told her that I was going to order a pizza for her. I would call her back when the pizza was ordered, and I wanted her to call me as soon as the pizza was delivered. I told her that I was working on a formula that would allow me to predict the exact moment a pizza was delivered to her door, if I ordered it from Halifax.
I then called the closest Boston Pizza to Angela and ordered her pizza. I called her and told her the pizza was ordered, and to call me back when it was delivered. She did.
A couple of weeks later, I again phoned and went through the same procedure. Angela called me back to tell me that the pizza had been delivered.
When we arrived in Calgary we booked into the Regency Suites Hotel in Calgary, and drove to the Boston Pizza we had been calling from Halifax. When we arrived at the pizzeria I placed the order then phoned Angela. I told her that I had ordered another pizza, and I would call her when the delivery guy was at her door. I knew that the call display would show my phone number complete with the area code. As far as Angela would know, I was still in Halifax.
When the pizza came out of the oven, we drove to Angela's house and I called her from the car. I told her that the pizza was on its way to her door, and I started counting down from ten. When I reached one, I pressed the doorbell.
When Angela opened the door the look of shock was priceless. Sue was taking pictures as fast as she could. The digital camera we used at that time wrote to a three and a half inch disk. It took time to reset for the next picture.
We had the Awards Ceremony to attend that night, The pizza was forgotten.
Angela was vibrating through the dinner. She did not care where we were, or why we were there. We shared the table with one of the Guest Authors, and I don't remember who he was. I was very excited to be with my daughter as well.
Angela's conversation was something like this:
"I have a school play coming up and....holy shit - you can come to it!"
Angela was apologizing for her profanity, constantly. Sue and I, being the old soldiers we were, were not offended. Angela's profanity was very tame compared to what we were used to.
I did not win the Aurora that night, however I was most pleased with my consolation prize. Having the opportunity to spend a very special night with my daughter and including her in what was an important and significant trip to Calgary.
In 2006 after Sue had passed, I was closing out her accounts, I found a Yahoo site called KPAK. There was correspondence that referred to the Aurora nomination. Sue had posted a question to the club, "Would you buy Qel Iv a drink?" That was the cost of a vote. For all those people who bought me an Aurora drink, I thank you.
On November 04 2011, I was presented with a pin for being an Aurora Award Nominee. I couldn't help but to think of Sue and the excitement and anticipation of being in Calgary in 2002.
I have only had occasion to wear it once. That was when I was recognized by the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station at a Wine and Cheese Party for the contributions I had made to Vulcan and the Trek Station on behalf of KAG Kanada.
I don't think anyone at the Wine and Cheese Party recognized the Aurora Nomination Pin for what it represented.
Sue and I frequented and supported the Trek Station in Vulcan between 2003 and 2005. I have maintained a presence in Vulcan since Sue's death, at their events and recently I started working at the Trek Station.
I wore the pin with pride and very much felt Sue's presence as I accepted the award from the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station.
I remember being pleased that Bernie had been recognized for his work as the Commanding Officer KAG Kanada. I did not truly understand the significance of the award. Sue/Q'Oneqo and I had been in attendance at Toronto Trek 14. Larry Stewart was nominated for an Aurora award, and had told us that over dinner, prior to the presentations.
I had met Larry on a couple of occasions in Halifax, at the two MarFests I had worked on. Larry had been the Master Of Ceremonies at those Conventions. Larry is one of those people that commands attention and attracts those around him. He is a very accomplished impersonator, and having a conversation with Larry is most entertaining.
Sue and I went to the awards presentation, and I was surprised to hear Bernie's name mentioned at the presentation ceremony as one of those nominated and then to hear that he had won the award was another surprise. I had not known that Bernie was nominated.
It wasn't until 2006, when I realized just how much Sue had been influenced by the Aurora Awards Presentation.
The year 2000 was a very significant year for Sue and me. It was the year we both retired from the Military and it was the year we were married. Another story.
We started discussing where we wanted to live. Calgary was very prominent. Sue had not spent any time in Calgary, other than to land at the airport to get to Banff, in the mountains. She did like the mountains.
My daughter, Angela, lived in Calgary with her mother. I missed her very much. We had been bringing Angela to Halifax at least once a year while she was growing up. We thought that it would suit our life styles being closer to Angela.
In 2001 I became aware of a covert operation within KAG Kanada. It was very subtle. Conversations would cease or abruptly change direction when I approached a group of people. I had just been appointed Senior Command Officer of KAG Kanada, and I was feeling very distanced from those who I had been close to. This new ostracism by my friends was not pleasant.
We were using Yahoo groups for club purposes, and things were said or hinted at that started raising my suspicions. Sue and I had a talk about this one night. I asked her what was going on. When it came to KAG Kanada, I wanted to know what was going on.
At first Sue was very innocent, but as I pressured her, her demeanor changed and she told me emphatically to mind my own business. I was caught off guard. She told me that if I were to keep digging I would uncover what was going to be meant as a surprise.
Sue reminded me of what I had been preaching for years, recognition. Sue told me that the club wanted to recognize me in a very special way, and if I continued to dig I would spoil their fun and ruin what they were working towards. This was one of those "Jiminy Cricket" moments when I had to shut up and listen - for my own good.
From then on, when the conversation stopped, or when Sue 'guided' me away from a group of Klingons, I went willingly, not asking any questions.
When the nominations were announced, the light went on and I had my answer. I had been nominated for the Aurora Fan Achievement category. My head swelled so much, my latex forehead no longer fit. It was a thrill. I don't know who was prouder, me or Sue.
The awards were to be handed out in Calgary at Conversion, August 09 2002.
Sue and I were entitled to a 'House Hunting Trip' as part of our retirement benefit from the Military. We decided to combine our entitlement with Conversion. We would combine our entitlement with the Aurora Award Ceremony.
I wanted to do something special with my daughter. Sue and I decided to surprise her with our appearance in Calgary. We wanted to do something that would be memorable, besides just showing up on her doorstep.
I hatched a plan, that I thought would be rather fun. I called Angela from Halifax and told her that I was going to order a pizza for her. I would call her back when the pizza was ordered, and I wanted her to call me as soon as the pizza was delivered. I told her that I was working on a formula that would allow me to predict the exact moment a pizza was delivered to her door, if I ordered it from Halifax.
I then called the closest Boston Pizza to Angela and ordered her pizza. I called her and told her the pizza was ordered, and to call me back when it was delivered. She did.
A couple of weeks later, I again phoned and went through the same procedure. Angela called me back to tell me that the pizza had been delivered.
When we arrived in Calgary we booked into the Regency Suites Hotel in Calgary, and drove to the Boston Pizza we had been calling from Halifax. When we arrived at the pizzeria I placed the order then phoned Angela. I told her that I had ordered another pizza, and I would call her when the delivery guy was at her door. I knew that the call display would show my phone number complete with the area code. As far as Angela would know, I was still in Halifax.
We had the Awards Ceremony to attend that night, The pizza was forgotten.
Angela was vibrating through the dinner. She did not care where we were, or why we were there. We shared the table with one of the Guest Authors, and I don't remember who he was. I was very excited to be with my daughter as well.
Angela's conversation was something like this:
 |
| Angela and Dad at the banquet |
"I have a school play coming up and....holy shit - you can come to it!"
Angela was apologizing for her profanity, constantly. Sue and I, being the old soldiers we were, were not offended. Angela's profanity was very tame compared to what we were used to.
I did not win the Aurora that night, however I was most pleased with my consolation prize. Having the opportunity to spend a very special night with my daughter and including her in what was an important and significant trip to Calgary.
 |
| Angela holding an Aurora |
In 2006 after Sue had passed, I was closing out her accounts, I found a Yahoo site called KPAK. There was correspondence that referred to the Aurora nomination. Sue had posted a question to the club, "Would you buy Qel Iv a drink?" That was the cost of a vote. For all those people who bought me an Aurora drink, I thank you.
 |
| Aurora Nomination Pin |
I have only had occasion to wear it once. That was when I was recognized by the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station at a Wine and Cheese Party for the contributions I had made to Vulcan and the Trek Station on behalf of KAG Kanada.
I don't think anyone at the Wine and Cheese Party recognized the Aurora Nomination Pin for what it represented.
Sue and I frequented and supported the Trek Station in Vulcan between 2003 and 2005. I have maintained a presence in Vulcan since Sue's death, at their events and recently I started working at the Trek Station.
I wore the pin with pride and very much felt Sue's presence as I accepted the award from the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station.
Tuesday 17 May 2011
The Pop Tab Challenge - 1999
The Challenge of 1998 was over, or was it?
When we got home after Toronto Trek 12, a posting was made on the KAG Kanada list that stated, "Qel Iv and the jokers of the SonchIy."
I replied, in character, "I will not rest until I have your trophy hanging from my banner!" In total there were three ladies who challenged me. I was determined to win this challenge.
This set the stage for the even Greater Pop Tab Challenge of 1999. This time though the competitors were the Steel Fist Fleet, Force Recon and the Ice Dragon Fleet. I think it fair to say the Ice Dragon Fleet's champion was the SonchIy Squadron.
The pressure was on. We knew that the Steel Fist Fleet wanted to assert their dominance in the upcoming Pop-Tab-Challenge. The SonchIy Squadron was determined not to be upstaged in the second Pop-Tab-Challenge. We would pick tabs in restaurants, we would pick tabs in bars we would pick tabs in the streets, we would never surrender!
And we did.
Every Friday night, Sue and I would spend hours at the Jr Ranks Mess Chief and PO's Mess and the Officers Mess in Halifax, pulling pop tabs. By the time we finished, our fingers were sticky and numb. We would hear similar stories from the members of the SonchIy.
In hindsight, they were great times. We enlisted anyone and everyone we could to pull the tabs.
One of the conversations I had been involved in was the need for an alcoholic beverage that would not knock out the participants too early during the evening festivities. There was a drink that was circulating, called "Darkon Ale". I think it was a concoction of Vodka, Blue Curacao, and Triple Sec.
Some of the stories that were produced by the ingesting of this drink will be declassified in ninety nine years.
When I had been on board the HMCS St Johns, I had hovered around the Stewards when the ship made port. The HMCS St Johns, when in port, liked to host parties on the Flight Deck. We had an on board band, and would host, what essentially was a Kitchen Party. The Stewards would mix up Moose Milk. The recipe is a closely guarded secret, and I wanted it. It took me two years to finally break down one of the Stewards, however I was successful.
When I was asked if I had any ideas as to what could be a new Klingon drink, I thought Moose Milk was different enough to qualify. However, the name was not Klingon enough. It needed to be ridged up a bit. So, it was rechristened War Nog.
For a Klingon Drink, we needed a suitable serving dish. Sue and I had been 'veterans' of many military functions. We discussed different ideas on what to serve the Moose Milk/War Nog out of. One night while we were discussing this, for the umteenth time while we were sipping scotch, the idea of using a toilet as a punch bowl came to us. The Throne Of Kahless was born.
I got hold of an old friend of mine, Dan, who is as off the wall as I am. I met Dan in Comox in the mid 70's. Dan was building dioramas when we were posted at Comox. I told Dan that I wanted to use a toilet as a punch bowl. I wanted something that was the antithesis of what people would expect as a punch bowl. I also wanted something that was fun. Dan liked the idea and agreed to work on the project.
Sue and I went to a plumbing supply store, and bought the brand new toilet. We took it to Greenwood, where Dan lived.
 |
| The Throne Of Kahless |
The framed sign reads:
"After many years of research and painstaking restoration, SonchIy Squadron is proud to present
THE THRONE OF KAHLESS
Discovered in a sealed cavern on the home world, the throne is presented here as it would have been in the time of Kahless. When discovered, the throne was complete with a roll of Warrior's Wipe, and an odd hidden compartment under the seat that even contained a section of Kahless' personal log.
Interestingly, even though Kahless espoused the tradition of spartan living conditions for warriors, careful observers will note that the throne seat is actually padded, although it is disguised to resemble raw ch'ta wood."
The Throne was to be a one time only gag. Sue and I thought that this would enhance Toronto Trek 13, and then it would become just another Con story. When we booked into our room at T-Trek, we used the luggage cart to transport the 'Throne' to our room. We covered it with clothes and luggage. I pushed it and Sue picked up the items that fell off. We did not want anyone to see what we were transporting. It was such a secret.
 |
| SonchIy Squadron Room Party |
Sue had printed up business cards as an invitation to our Room Party. We passed those out in the lobby of the hotel.
Our party was crashed by some people from California who had heard that a party was in progress. When I served the War Nog from the Throne, I was asked what it was. I told him that it was Moose Milk. He looked at me wide eyed, and asked what Moose Milk was. The hook was in; I told him that I had my pet Moose in the parking lot, each year we would milk her and we served her milk at conventions. He looked at his friend and exclaimed, "Must be a Canadian 'thang'".
I had received a phone call from T-Trek Con Com asking if I knew how to get in touch with Mark Okrand. I was caught off guard and asked why I was being asked. The answer I got was that, "we have heard that you party with Mark". I was flattered that I was developing such a reputation.
I called Mark and asked if he wanted to go to Toronto for T-Trek 13. He said he was interested and I gave him the contact information.
The best part was that this time when we met, I knew who he was.
I have served this to various Guest Sars at Cons, most of them being in Vulcan Alberta. The best description of War Nog I have heard was from J.G. Hertzler. He calls it "pantie remover".
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| Mark Okrand and Qel Iv - Toronto Trek 13 |
I called Mark and asked if he wanted to go to Toronto for T-Trek 13. He said he was interested and I gave him the contact information.
The best part was that this time when we met, I knew who he was.
One of the things I was concerned about was the possibility of loosing the Pop-Tab-Challenge. I knew where the girls would get their trophies, and I was determined to loose with as much grace as I would have as a winner.
To the members of the SonchIy Squadron, I motivated them, I hoped, by constantly telling them we were the best in KAG Kanada, and we would once again show that at Toronto Trek 13 by again winning the challenge. I was also well aware that the competition would be very fierce.
In Truro Nova Scotia, Stanfields has a factory outlet. Sue and I went shopping there and found red flannel underwear. The full body type with the butt-flap in the back. This was going to be the trophy I would put up. I still had the image of Sean parading through the halls of T-Trek 12 and I envisioned the red flannels being paraded in the same way.
I took the underwear to the company that did our embroidering and had the SonchIy logo embroidered on the left breast, my name 'Qel Iv' on the right and the names "Recon" and "Steel Fist Fleets" embroidered on the butt flap on the back of the underwear.
I went to the Base Clothing Stores, lied through my teeth, and got Naval Captains shoulder board rank epaulettes. Four thick gold bands, signifying Captain's rank. I had the rank of Captain in the club. Even though they were not Klingon issue, they made their point.
We had just picked up the underwear prior to our departure to Toronto Trek 13. When we settled into our room, Sue started stitching gold trim around my trophy, the underwear. She literally locked herself in the room Friday night and most of Saturday. She came out for breaks, and these were to pass out the invitations to the room party. The first appearance she made as Q'Oneqo, was the Grand Assembly itself. When the tabs were brought in, I was not sure if we would win. I still wanted to give the impression that I was confident that we would win the challenge.
I took the microphone and stated that it was too bad that no one would see what they were loosing when I won and to prove that I was a gracious winner, I would wear what I had ready to surrender in the event I lost. I told the audience that, in the event that I won, I would wear my trophy to breakfast the next day, Sunday.  |
| K'Char shows her trophy offering. |
Today, when I raise my 'official' flag, those trophy thongs are affixed to the flag and I am still singing the song of victory.
I also knew that the assumption would be that I had a pair of boxers or something similar.
 |
| The SonchIy Flag placed at the table. |
 |
| The look of disbelief |
This is perhaps my favorite photo of Frank, the Steel Fist Fleet Commander. This photo was taken by Sue as I descended in the elevator. He was slack jawed. I remember suppressing the urge to laugh as I was coming down the elevator. The first thing Frank saw was my boots, followed by my legs and then the rest of me in the underwear.
 |
| My entrence into the restaurant |
In hindsight, it is a good thing I won. I doubt the ladies would have been so brave.
 |
| Qel Iv and Kalot share a laugh. |
 |
| K'Ostya (Stacey), Qel Iv's good side and Bernie |
This picture made the cover of the last issue of the Disruptor, KAG Kanada's fanzine. It was titled "The End". Stacey almost had all the buttons undone, thankfully Q'Oneqo intervened.
The pop tab weight tally was very close. I understand that some of the tabs committed that were not able to be in Toronto could have tipped the contest the other way, however I don't think the stories or pictures would have been nearly as interesting; of course if the Klingon women had worn their trophy this could have had an entirely different outcome. Perhaps I could have thrown the challenge... Ah well, opportunities missed.
People still tell me that they have buckets of pop tabs, should I want them. I am at a point where I almost have a phobia about the little things. When I see a pop tab today I think of Sue.
Thursday 5 May 2011
A Klingon In Naples
While writing my blog, I have attempted to keep things in chronological order. This story is like an itch I can't scratch. It has to be told.
In 1998 I was posted from the CSOR to the HMCS (Her Majesty's Canadian Ship) St John's. I wasn't really very impressed with this. I wore an Air Element uniform. When I was posted to the Fleet Diving Unit (Atlantic) I was referred to as their "Token Zoomie". I was the only "Sky" blue uniform among the Navy blues.
On the St John's there were a few more "Sky" blue uniforms, but not that many.
I had been promoted, in KAG Kanada, to Commander and been appointed as the Ice Dragon Fleet Commander. Botaq had just been appointed Senior Command Officer, KAG Kanada, and we were putting the logistics together for my being able to participate long distance as Fleet Commander.
In 1998, we were not as connected as we are today. Being on the ship was a further restriction. To send an e-mail, we had to save it to a disk and have the Communications section transmit. When an e-mail arrived, it was saved to a disk, and then given to the member.
We could only send e-mails once a week. Instant Messaging was not even a consideration. We were impressed with this because the alternative was snail mail.
The Commanding Officer of the ship even joked about my Klingon rank, having two Commanders on the one ship. His rank was Commander. When we set out for the NATO exercise in September, he asked me to bring my Klingon costume. I was not sure what he had in mind, but I welcomed the recognition and approval of my interest in Trek and participation in Klingon fandom.
Prior to deployment all personal have to be medically certified as being physically fit. I did have a medical condition, but it was deemed not to be serious enough to interfere with the deployment.
I can remember as a very young boy being shooed out of the room by my mother so she could talk about "woman issues" with her friends. I can also remember thinking that I was lucky to be male, as women seemed to have a lot of issues.
Males have issues too. It seems the only time they are discovered are when they interfere with our daily lives. I had an issue for a few years. There was no pain and only slightly inconvenient.
A name was put to my condition when I was being screened for the NATO exercise. What I had was a hydrocele. I had no idea there was a name for 'it'. What is a hydrocele? I didn't know the name, but I was very well aware of the symptoms.
My scrotum was the size of a grapefruit. It was so large, I had to turn sideways to pee. More than once while using the public urinals, I was asked what I was looking at!
At the time, Sue was more concerned about it than I was. I was actually kind of proud of it and Sue told me more than once that I had the biggest balls of anyone she ever met.
I was cleared medically to proceed on the NATO exercise, hydrocele and all.
When we were well underway, we stopped in the Gulf Stream and took advantage of the warm water and warm sea air. The BBQ's were lit, and we were swimming in the gulf waters. This was all new to me. Guys were jumping off the ship into the water. I was just a tad hesitant because of the armed guards that stood watch in case of sharks. These guys were sailors, not infantrymen. I just did not trust their aim!
The CO asked me if I wanted to put on my costume. That turned out to be interesting. Most of the crew did not know how to react. For the most part they totally avoided me.
I found out why the CO wanted me in my costume. He had watched the members of the SonchIy at the various events hosted by the Military. He also had a sense of humor.
One of the exercises that was planned was for the HMCS St John's to be boarded by US sailors. The role the HMCS John's was to play was to be a freighter suspected of transporting contraband. This was also before 9/11 and the mood was not as intense as it was to become later.
The CO wanted me to be in my Klingon costume as the US bording party entered the bridge of the St John's. He wanted to see their reaction when they realized there was a Klingon sitting in the Captains Chair, commanding the ship.
After a week at sea, it was a very big deal to enter the Straight of Gibraltar. It was my first time in the Mediterranean. I could see Spain on one side and Morocco on the other. This was the first time I had seen both countries. We were going to be docking in Naples, and I was planning on visiting Pompeii. I was looking forward to being a tourist for a couple of days.
I was naked from the waist down, my pants were gathered around my ankles and I was undergoing a "short arm inspection." I wasn't going anywhere soon, so I agreed.
The Doctor's assistants were two female PA's, or Medics. Three, very Mediterranean women, all gorgeous, with their gaze focused on my crotch. I am sure I have seen this scenario in a porn movie somewhere, however being the center of their attention was not stimulating.
The PA, my PA and the Doctor went into yet another huddle. He came back to me and told me to pull my pants up. The Spanish Doctor was not able, (or qualified), to make a determination on my condition, and I was now being refereed to the US hospital in Naples.
Later that day I was in the US hospital. I was given a choice of an operation in Naples or being returned to Canada. If I stayed in Naples, I would be operated on in an Italian hospital. I wanted to have any surgery done in Canada so I could at least talk to the doctors myself.
I had to wait a few days before the flight home. I spent my time at the USO storefront, as I was excused all duties. Alan and I communicated by internet via Yahoo. We thought it would be fun if he, as Senior Command Officer, ordered me to return to Canada. We would build up a story to bring me back to Canada. Alan sent out an e-mail via the KAG Kanada list ordering me back to Canada. I replied that I was making my arrangements and would give my itinerary as soon as I had it.
The interesting thing was, no one in the club participated. Not a word. My thoughts were that the assumption by the club was that I was in trouble with the Military.
My only regret is because of the hydrocele I did not get to sit in the Captains Chair. It is also a Photo Op I regret missing.
In 1998 I was posted from the CSOR to the HMCS (Her Majesty's Canadian Ship) St John's. I wasn't really very impressed with this. I wore an Air Element uniform. When I was posted to the Fleet Diving Unit (Atlantic) I was referred to as their "Token Zoomie". I was the only "Sky" blue uniform among the Navy blues.
On the St John's there were a few more "Sky" blue uniforms, but not that many.
I had been promoted, in KAG Kanada, to Commander and been appointed as the Ice Dragon Fleet Commander. Botaq had just been appointed Senior Command Officer, KAG Kanada, and we were putting the logistics together for my being able to participate long distance as Fleet Commander.
In 1998, we were not as connected as we are today. Being on the ship was a further restriction. To send an e-mail, we had to save it to a disk and have the Communications section transmit. When an e-mail arrived, it was saved to a disk, and then given to the member.
We could only send e-mails once a week. Instant Messaging was not even a consideration. We were impressed with this because the alternative was snail mail.
The Commanding Officer of the ship even joked about my Klingon rank, having two Commanders on the one ship. His rank was Commander. When we set out for the NATO exercise in September, he asked me to bring my Klingon costume. I was not sure what he had in mind, but I welcomed the recognition and approval of my interest in Trek and participation in Klingon fandom.
Prior to deployment all personal have to be medically certified as being physically fit. I did have a medical condition, but it was deemed not to be serious enough to interfere with the deployment.
I can remember as a very young boy being shooed out of the room by my mother so she could talk about "woman issues" with her friends. I can also remember thinking that I was lucky to be male, as women seemed to have a lot of issues.
Males have issues too. It seems the only time they are discovered are when they interfere with our daily lives. I had an issue for a few years. There was no pain and only slightly inconvenient.
A name was put to my condition when I was being screened for the NATO exercise. What I had was a hydrocele. I had no idea there was a name for 'it'. What is a hydrocele? I didn't know the name, but I was very well aware of the symptoms.
My scrotum was the size of a grapefruit. It was so large, I had to turn sideways to pee. More than once while using the public urinals, I was asked what I was looking at!
At the time, Sue was more concerned about it than I was. I was actually kind of proud of it and Sue told me more than once that I had the biggest balls of anyone she ever met.
I was cleared medically to proceed on the NATO exercise, hydrocele and all.
When we were well underway, we stopped in the Gulf Stream and took advantage of the warm water and warm sea air. The BBQ's were lit, and we were swimming in the gulf waters. This was all new to me. Guys were jumping off the ship into the water. I was just a tad hesitant because of the armed guards that stood watch in case of sharks. These guys were sailors, not infantrymen. I just did not trust their aim!
 |
| This Sailor could not look me in the eyes. |
I found out why the CO wanted me in my costume. He had watched the members of the SonchIy at the various events hosted by the Military. He also had a sense of humor.
One of the exercises that was planned was for the HMCS St John's to be boarded by US sailors. The role the HMCS John's was to play was to be a freighter suspected of transporting contraband. This was also before 9/11 and the mood was not as intense as it was to become later.
The CO wanted me to be in my Klingon costume as the US bording party entered the bridge of the St John's. He wanted to see their reaction when they realized there was a Klingon sitting in the Captains Chair, commanding the ship.
After a week at sea, it was a very big deal to enter the Straight of Gibraltar. It was my first time in the Mediterranean. I could see Spain on one side and Morocco on the other. This was the first time I had seen both countries. We were going to be docking in Naples, and I was planning on visiting Pompeii. I was looking forward to being a tourist for a couple of days.
 |
| My "Gowron" stare. |
When we docked in Naples, I became a tourist. I did get to Pompeii and I found a computer with internet access at the USO. I used my Yahoo account to correspond with Sue, Alan and the Ice Dragon Fleet from the Dock in Naples.
One morning I awoke with a pain in my abdomen. I thought it was my stomach, but the pain was radiating from my groin. I went to the PA (Physicians Assistant), the Canadian Military equivalent of a Medic.
He was aware of my condition, as he cleared me for the deployment. I could not ignore this any longer, and living on a ship meant climbing and going down ladders. This was no longer an option.
When I went to the Sick Bay, the PA told me that he could not make a determination about my condition. That had to be made by a doctor. The Duty Doctor was on the Spanish ship. He would have to make an appointment with the Duty Doctor and when that was done, he would have me called to the Sick Bay.
I returned to my bunk, having been excused all duties. A little more than an hour later I was called to the Sick Bay. I met the PA and we made our way to the Spanish ship.
As we were making our way across the jetty the PA was making small talk, telling me what to expect should I have to be sent home because of the hydrocele. As we crossed the brow, while my arm was up in the salute, (The brow is the ramp that connects the dock with the ship. The country's flag flies on the aft or back of the ship.), the PA said, "Oh, by the way, the Doctor is a woman. Do you have a problem with that?"
I had been ambushed by the frakin Medic.
I was being asked to make an immediate decision. This was not going to be my finest moment, however I reasoned that she was a doctor, been through medical school, and was serving on a warship. Obviously, she was competent. I could and would 'man' up.
We made our way to the Spanish Sick Bay. The Doctor was simply, lovely. Olive skin, long raven black hair and a great figure. All I could think was that I was glad Sue was on the other side of the world. She would never have believed this.
The Doctor and the PA went off in a corner, and it was evident that she did not speak English and the PA did not speak Spanish. This just got better and better. The PA came back and told me to drop my pants. I knew my troubles were not over when her eyebrows arched and her eyes widened. My comfort levels were quickly diminishing.
Another huddle by the Doctor and the PA. Whispered broken English and what I presume was broken Spanish; a pause in the conversation, then both turned and looked at me with what I hoped was clinical interest. The PA came over to me and stated, "this is a condition that they don't usually have a chance to see", indicating the Doctor. "Would you mind if she brought in her assistants so they could familiarize themselves with this condition?"When I went to the Sick Bay, the PA told me that he could not make a determination about my condition. That had to be made by a doctor. The Duty Doctor was on the Spanish ship. He would have to make an appointment with the Duty Doctor and when that was done, he would have me called to the Sick Bay.
I returned to my bunk, having been excused all duties. A little more than an hour later I was called to the Sick Bay. I met the PA and we made our way to the Spanish ship.
As we were making our way across the jetty the PA was making small talk, telling me what to expect should I have to be sent home because of the hydrocele. As we crossed the brow, while my arm was up in the salute, (The brow is the ramp that connects the dock with the ship. The country's flag flies on the aft or back of the ship.), the PA said, "Oh, by the way, the Doctor is a woman. Do you have a problem with that?"
I had been ambushed by the frakin Medic.
I was being asked to make an immediate decision. This was not going to be my finest moment, however I reasoned that she was a doctor, been through medical school, and was serving on a warship. Obviously, she was competent. I could and would 'man' up.
We made our way to the Spanish Sick Bay. The Doctor was simply, lovely. Olive skin, long raven black hair and a great figure. All I could think was that I was glad Sue was on the other side of the world. She would never have believed this.
The Doctor and the PA went off in a corner, and it was evident that she did not speak English and the PA did not speak Spanish. This just got better and better. The PA came back and told me to drop my pants. I knew my troubles were not over when her eyebrows arched and her eyes widened. My comfort levels were quickly diminishing.
I was naked from the waist down, my pants were gathered around my ankles and I was undergoing a "short arm inspection." I wasn't going anywhere soon, so I agreed.
The Doctor's assistants were two female PA's, or Medics. Three, very Mediterranean women, all gorgeous, with their gaze focused on my crotch. I am sure I have seen this scenario in a porn movie somewhere, however being the center of their attention was not stimulating.
The PA, my PA and the Doctor went into yet another huddle. He came back to me and told me to pull my pants up. The Spanish Doctor was not able, (or qualified), to make a determination on my condition, and I was now being refereed to the US hospital in Naples.
Later that day I was in the US hospital. I was given a choice of an operation in Naples or being returned to Canada. If I stayed in Naples, I would be operated on in an Italian hospital. I wanted to have any surgery done in Canada so I could at least talk to the doctors myself.
I had to wait a few days before the flight home. I spent my time at the USO storefront, as I was excused all duties. Alan and I communicated by internet via Yahoo. We thought it would be fun if he, as Senior Command Officer, ordered me to return to Canada. We would build up a story to bring me back to Canada. Alan sent out an e-mail via the KAG Kanada list ordering me back to Canada. I replied that I was making my arrangements and would give my itinerary as soon as I had it.
The interesting thing was, no one in the club participated. Not a word. My thoughts were that the assumption by the club was that I was in trouble with the Military.
My only regret is because of the hydrocele I did not get to sit in the Captains Chair. It is also a Photo Op I regret missing.
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