FROM THE BRIDGE

by Commander Becky Norris

Bonjour, crew! I hope everyone had as much fun at the convention as I did. Armin Shimerman was a pleasure (probably the best guest we've had) and the whole con was delightful. I managed not to spend too much money, and the One Whose Name Must Not Be Spoken did not so much as show his face. Who could ask for more than that?

Those of you who were not able to be at the convention certainly missed a treat. Armin was a truly fine guest who was gracious and funny and utterly charming. We had such fun with him at a special brunch I was able to set up with the hotel (and if you didn't know about it, you shouldn't have missed the meeting!) and his talk during the convention was one of the best I've ever heard. I only regret that Armin had to rush off to the airport to make a flight that would enable him to be in makeup at 3AM the following morning--it would have been great to sit around and listen to stories of DS9 all night.

I would like to take a moment to thank all of the crew members who participated at the convention. As always, you conducted yourselves in an honorable manner, and the demeanor of the convention was proof that this is indeed the finest crew ever assembled in the history of Starfleet. I would like to propose to the senior staff that all crew members who worked at the convention, either as security or manning the shuttle table, be awarded a special commendation for service above and beyond the call of duty. I for one was very proud to be able to say that I serve with all of you.

Okay, anyone who missed the meeting doesn't know that in honor of the birthday of the Fearless, we are throwing ourselves a birthday party. Everyone please join us at Maxine Cathey's house (hopefully there are directions in this newsletter) for the Firthful and Fruitful Frolic of Frivolity for the Fearless on August 19th. Maxine will cook hot-dogs and provide all the good squishy stuff that goes on them--everyone else needs to whip out the ole Better Homes and Gardens cookbook and stir up a delightful dish that will send all of us into orbit (literally!). Translated--bring a side dish, youse guyz. There will be fun for all, and I have promised to bake a Riker cake with a straw in his head. You wouldn't want to miss that one! Besides, who woulda thought that we would have ever stuck by through thick and thin. So let's celebrate--we earned it!!

If you haven't congratulated the newly elected officers yet, please do. Let them know that you support them (that really is so important), and that you are willing to help the shuttle (hopefully soon to be a ship) achieve its goals any way you can. We've proven time and time again that we can accomplish any goal if you all work together, and with the momentum we have going, there's no reason to stop now. Also, if you weren't appointed a committee chair and you feel like there is something you can contribute to the shuttle, speak up, and before you know it, you'll have your very own committee! Pretty cool, huh?

One last thing--everyone needs to get together their car-washing devices--the fund-raiser will be held at the end of August and it should be a day of fun and bonding (not Klingon bonding, though--some of that looks kinda painful). Watch for details, and don't miss the picnic, where I'm sure you will be enlightened beyond your wildest dreams!

Sayonara (multi-lingual---check it out!) - LL&P, Becky