Louis' Page

How it all began:

In the early to mid 1980's, the popularity of the British long running science fiction series DOCTOR WHO had gained to a substantial level due largely to the fact that many local PBS television affiliate stations began airing the series. Conventions were becoming very common that would feature guests from the cast and crew of the series as well as all various merchandise collectibles. It seemed to echo the momentum of the early days of STAR TREK fandom. Also during this time, more and more local fan organizations based on the series began to sprout up all across the country. These local organizations had the benefit of holding local meetings, events, and working conventions in their local respective areas so that the fans could be actively involved and participate with each other within these events. As opposed to a national organization which only meant receiving a newsletter.

It was at this time, in 1984 to early 1985 that it became clear that there was no local organization catering to the New York area, more specifically Long Island. So in Spring of 1985 I decided that I would form an a fan club that will bring together the fans within Long Island. To give them the same opportunities as with other localities across the country in which fan clubs have grown and flourished. The first thing I needed to do is get other people interested in the idea. I created flyers which were posted in various science fiction/comic book shops which resulted in a few people coming forward with an interest. After that time in the Summer of 1985, we went to our first convention with a table there for our club, the Gallifreyan Embassy of Long Island. This was instrumental to getting the word out and increasing the membership. By September 1985, we held our first monthly meeting at the Holiday Inn of Rockville Centre. The turnout was favorable. Together we went out to achieve our goals by continuing with our monthly meetings both in Nassau and Suffolk counties of Long Island, in addition to a regular newsletter, attending and working local conventions, volunteering at local PBS stations, etc. We expanded our focus to cover all British science fiction, and eventually expanded it even further to encompass the entire science fiction genre in all its various mediums.

Today, 15 years later it continues and has expanded even further by embracing the Internet and what it has to offer. It continues to provide meetings and other activities such as field trips for people who share similar interests. For those involved with the organization, many have formed friendships because of it which will last a lifetime. As it continues to be a source of fun and enlightenment, it will continue for another 15 years and beyond.

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