Universal Monster Army

I hear that Count Gore De Vol is planning to attend this year.Iam up for it,who else is planning to go?

 I love Count Gore De Vol, have all three VHS tapes spaning his show.  It would be great to see him in person.  The dead space where my heart should be says YES, YES.  My wallet slaps me in the face and says NO,NO.

I too love Count Gore, he was my Horror Host growing up, I have all his DVD's and met him a couple times (most recently at Horror Find 2008).

As for going, we'll have to see how the money is looking. I also am wanting to go to Monster Bash this year, since I have never been. Looks good with the Frankenstein theme. We'll have to see.

Reservations were made before Christmas!  I always try to make it to the 'fest.  May be my last year for a while though with the economy the way it is......

I'd very much like to be there, considering my renewed level of activity in the kit world.  But with baby arriving in late March and a tight budget, it's not looking like it'll happen.

If you think you might be able to attend, it's a good idea to make a reservation at the Crown Plaza (formerly the Executive West) hotel, since it always sells out of rooms. If it turns out you can't make it, you can always cancel your room.

I wish I could get there. I am certainly due for a trip. I miss all of the friends there.

Wonderfest asked me to tell you that it wants to be held in Melbourne, Australia.

and.... what are the dates for this year's Wondy?

This year Wonderfest is May 15 -17. The "official" days are Saturday and Sunday, but there is a lot of activity and programming on Friday night as well.

http://www.wonderfest.com/news.htm (http://www.wonderfest.com/news.htm)

The Guest List so far:

Veronica Cartwright
Tom Woodruff
Ken Kelly
William Stout
Frank Dietz
Larry Blamire & Jennifer Blaire
Bob & Kathy Burns
Cortlandt Hull & Dennis Vincent
Pat McClung
Kenny Miller

PLUS screenings of the original LOST SKELETON OF CADAVRA and the new sequel, THE LOST SKELETON RETURNS AGAIN.

Bummer, I'll be in New York / New Jersey.  By May 2010 I'll be out of the Navy; I guess that's when I'll get to dedicate more time to the (UM)Army

Reservations have been made. Unless I get caught in another natural disaster, I'll be there.

Quote from: depressedlarrytalbot on February 03, 2009, 04:22:50 PM
Wonderfest asked me to tell you that it wants to be held in Melbourne, Australia.

No,Palm Beach Florida. I distinctly heard them through my tinfoil hat say "Palm Beach Florida."

Got my room booked!! I'll be flapping my bat wings along with momulia and my chihuahua.

Last year, Raymond and Andy shacked up together at Wonderfest.  Andy won't be going this year.   >:(  Finally - video evidence as to his reason:

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/muu0fVaHRjXMWqq4Bf1W (http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/muu0fVaHRjXMWqq4Bf1W)

Quote from: CreepyJeff on February 12, 2009, 12:19:50 AM
Last year, Raymond and Andy shacked up together at Wonderfest.  Andy won't be going this year.   >:(  Finally - video evidence as to his reason:

http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/muu0fVaHRjXMWqq4Bf1W (http://sendables.jibjab.com/view/muu0fVaHRjXMWqq4Bf1W)

But... but, I thought Raymond was Terry's muffin of love. I'm so confused. :-\

I may NEVER recover from watching that.

Rob

Make it STOP!  lol

BK

Ray, you look good in red!! So has anyone heard any more updates about Count Gore??

Good God, my eyes!!! My eyes!!!

Actually, yeah, you make a fine woman Ray. It's Terry as the man that I find funny...  ;)

Mike C.

If I still have a job, and I am not working that particular weekend, I will be there.  With the wifey and kids.  I'll wear my t-shirt so you'll know I am one of you.  You just won't know which one unless you introduce yourself..... ;)

Quote from: Anton Phibes on February 25, 2009, 04:49:40 PM
If I still have a job, and I am not working that particular weekend, I will be there.  With the wifey and kids.  I'll wear my t-shirt so you'll know I am one of you.  You just won't know which one unless you introduce yourself..... ;)

Ah, but what if you're the only one who wears a t-shirt? ;)

Hey Wonderfest friends,

There is now an Official Wonderfest Group on MySpace. It's brand new and needs members. Come join us!

http://groups.myspace.com/wonderfest (http://groups.myspace.com/wonderfest)

Done and done Frank.

Angela Cartwright, FX magician Steve Johnson and David J. Schow all on board for Louisville in May!

I always wanted to go to Wonderfest, and hope to get there one year...:) Hopefully someone takes lot's of pics to post!

Quote from: artistguy on March 30, 2009, 05:33:13 PM
I always wanted to go to Wonderfest, and hope to get there one year...:) Hopefully someone takes lot's of pics to post!

Adam,
You should try setting up with some of your work.  It's a good show; you would probably do well.

As of present, I plan to be at Wonderfest.  I have my room reservation.  Will report for duty upon arrival.   It will be nice to be back in one spot (the host hotel) this year.

And please don't forget, the annual Rondo Awards Ceremony will be on Saturday night at 5 p.m. at Wonderfest!

david
'You'll believe a man can live in a sack.'

This year I'll be taking my mom and my uncle with me to wonderfest. Uncula, is very excited about meeting my posse!

Hey Poseablemonster....

I'm hoping to one of these years... it's a far trip for me and I'd have to drive with my stuff... I wouldn't chance them  being shipped... they can be fragile....LOL!  Now that LEMAX is hanging on by a thread and many of us have lost our jobs... I may start doing shows again...:)

*BUMP*

I thought I would bump this thread up today.

Who all is confirmed and planning to go to WonderFest?  (Of course-- barring natural disasters, economic collapse and/or mass zombie uprisings between now and then.)

Previously listed as confirmed:
Terry, Raymond, CreepyJeff P., SketchyFrank D., Nicole, Miss Drac (with Momula and Uncula in tow), Chuck/Phantasm, and Elizabeth (with long-suffering husband in tow).

Harry Hammock, you had said you were up for it-- are we going to see you?

Dr. Phibes, you were a maybe-- are you on for the show?

And what about Baron Wolf/Timothy?

Anyone else going to be there?  Anyone out there (lurking perhaps, a bit shy about posting) who is going?  Please give a holler ... it's nice to know for whom to peel an eyeball...

(Gotta have enough eyeballs to go around.)

Hi Elizabeth,

I'll be at the show too. Looking forward to seeing lots of friends, both old and new!

-Tim

I'll be there!  My first time.


Looking forward to seeing you guys there.

Glad to hear it Universal Tim and Getter! It will be great to meet you!  :D

And Joe Moe has said he is coming this year too.

I still want to go, but if this swine flu problem turns into a pandemic, my family is going to chain me to the furniture. :-[

Well, chaining up young women is certainly a time-honored horror tradition.

However, I think we really all should be fairly safe in Louisville, and the medical authorities are really working to nip it in the bud... so let's think positive that you are going to be there, Nicole.  Rinse out your UMA t-shirt and have that ready to pack!  ;)

(Tell the family we can have a big bottle of Purell hand sanitizer at the display, as a precaution.)

Oh yeah Elizabeth I'll be there for my 8th in a row.

Quote from: Elizabeth on April 29, 2009, 04:01:37 PM
so let's think positive that you are going to be there, Nicole.  Rinse out your UMA t-shirt and have that ready to pack!  ;)

(Tell the family we can have a big bottle of Purell hand sanitizer at the display, as a precaution.)

Thank you, Elizabeth. I will be staying positive. :)

I'm planning to be there. I'm riding up with some of my local friends, and I think we're planning to stick around for the showing of "Alien" that evening.
George

Great, Ramsey37-- it will be good to see you there!

For anyone else pondering the ALIEN screening, this is the page on the WonderFest site with the info:
http://www.wonderfest.com/after-hours.html#AlienScreening (http://www.wonderfest.com/after-hours.html#AlienScreening)

I seem to recall hearing somewhere that there was concern the theater might sell out, so if you want to be sure of a ticket, it's wise to use the mail-in order form (linked in the movie announcement on that page) and get that ticket reserved!

I will be there. This will be my 10th.

...not to interrupt the conversation but im new to this board and Im goiong to look it up but what does wonderfest entail?

Quote from: Creepy_lil_Boy on May 02, 2009, 08:25:35 PM
...not to interrupt the conversation but im new to this board and Im goiong to look it up but what does wonderfest entail?

For a quick answer, here's their website:        www.wonderfest.com

A lot of UMA members go to it and so does our display of vintage toys.

ROb

One week away!

Is there anyone out there that can pick me up a couple of Tom Woodruff autographs?  PM me if you can.

Thank you
BK

Well, unless things turn around by Wednesday, I am going to have to sit this one out.  The funds to go and be tempted to buy something just aren't accessible at the moment.  Please take plenty of pictures and post them in this link for those of us who missed. Thanks!

I'm not sure if I officially announced it--but yes, I'll be there.  UMA toy exhibit will include a tribute display of some of Uncle Forry's Ackermuseum artifacts--toys, memorabilia, and the prototype replica Maria robotrix head Forry commissioned--from my collection.  Stop by and have a look!

Less than a week now!  I can't wait!  I hope everyone coming has an uneventful and safe trip and I'll see you all there!

Chuck

I wish I could have been there. Looking forward to the photos!

Darn it, Nicole. :(

I'm still need of a couple Tom Woodruff autographs who is a guest at Wonderfest?  I'll even pay a few extra bucks for your trouble.  PM me if you are able to.

Thank you
BK

Brian, I don't have the pocket money needed up-front for several autographs, I am afraid.  If someone else who is going is comfortable loaning the money, I don't mind doing the standing in line and getting things signed part. 

Attn: Brian!  Elizabeth, I will front Brian for a couple Woodruff's--we were gift-exchangers a while back, and he's a darn good guy!

Thanks guys, PM's will be on the way!   ;D  This group is awesome!

BK

Roger that. ;)

Got your PM Brian, and I will meet up with Robert this weekend and take care of this for you.  I've printed out the message you sent me.  (And yep, I am familiar with both movies, so no problem.)

It's good there is sort of a head count here, so Raymond and Terry have an idea who to expect for the UMA group photo.

Remember to pop by the booth this weekend and ask when the UMA picture will be taken!

(Says the person who missed last year... )

Leaving for Louisville around 2:00 this afternoon, Forry memorabilia all packed.  Looking forward to a quiet, peaceful weekend...oh, who am I kidding, it'll be nonstop go-go-go and talk-talk-talk (monster talk, especially).  Full reports will undoubtedly follow!

Safe travels! And don't forget to take lots of pictures! ;D

Enjoy, have fun and be safe.  I really wish I could be there, but it's not possible for me this year. :'(

Quote from: typhooforme on May 14, 2009, 09:13:36 AM
Leaving for Louisville around 2:00 this afternoon, Forry memorabilia all packed.  Looking forward to a quiet, peaceful weekend...oh, who am I kidding, it'll be nonstop go-go-go and talk-talk-talk (monster talk, especially).  Full reports will undoubtedly follow!

Robert - Terry & I with display will be leaving Chicago about 4:30cst and should arrive at the hotel just before midnight.  If I know you Robert (and I think I do), you'll be sitting in the comfy chair in the lobby awaiting our arrival.  Prepare yourself for a "Richard Olson Style Monster Hug".  You have always been quite the hugger.  >:)

To all UMA Members heading to Wonderfest, please have a safe trip and enjoy yourselves.  Take lots of pictures and have lots to share when you return so that those of us unable to attend are brought up to speed.  Have a great time everyone, David

Wish I could be in the UMA group photo with all you monsters...  but then again, I'd hate to break a perfectly good camera.

Have a monstrously great time everybody.

Mark

I'll be there! If any mask geeks out there want to talk shop, just flash the secret HMA sign.

I am going.  I prolly won't be able to buy much...but at least I am going. Yippee!! ;D

I went, but was not impressed this year with the UMA exhibit. A few changes, but honestly not for the best. I think the UMA has become  focused on certain "personalities" (cerain members), and has become very elitist, and thus has resulted in an every increasing decline in the interest of the UMA display. A good idea would probably be to focus less on these personalities and more on actually generating interest and completely equal discussion of the classic Univeral Monsters topic. This group was MUCH better when it was a Yahoo group.

Brother D

Sorry you didn't like the display; everyone has their own opinion, as ever... but what's this about elitism?
The UMA is the most open, welcoming, least confrontational, least argumentative forum about classic horror around. I'm sorry you didn't like the choices shown in the display, but you have to realize the display is put together by a handful of dedicated UMAers doing it mostly out-of-pocket and on their own time; it's not like the entire UMA gathers for some conference to decide what goes into every detail of the display. I'm sure Ray, Max, Robert, Terry, et al, would love ALL UMAers to be a part of the display, but that's just not possible... so where's the elitism in that?
Which 'personalities (certain members)' are you talking about, anyway? If you believe the UMA is too hung up on 'certain members' and would benefit from changing this behaviour, have the guts to actually name them so we can immediately begin the un-worshipping.
Many other monster/horror boards seem to be generally four or five guys dominating, battling over who's the smartest/best informed/most collected, with newbies generally ignored or referred to the search feature because 'that's been asked/mentioned/debated too much already'.
NONE of that exists in the UMA.
And why do you think it was 'MUCH' better as a Yahoo group? Nothing changed but the format and greater ease of posting. It's still Terry's group, with Max and the others mod'ing.
Unless you're feeling that back when it was more effort to post and reply, and there were less members, it was better. But that would be elitist... so it can't be that. Right?

Elitism? Cripes.

Mike C.

The fund raisers help to offset the cost of the display somewhat, but a lot more is spent than is raised.  Over the years pieces have had to be replaced and that costs money.  A van/truck sometimes needs to be rented = more $.  Some of the stuff in the display is brought by the ones that attended, but others are mailed/shipped.  It takes a lot of work and many tiring hours to put the thing together and set up the toys only to do the reverse a few days later.  As the theme of the shows change, the group has tried to tie in with that, but that is not always easy, as toys and items need to be lent.  This year the display paid tribute to Linda Miller and her art, as well as Forry Ackerman.  Linda was a nice, warm woman that contributed a lot to the UMA and Uncle Forry needs no explanation.  I really hope that you're not objecting to this aspect of the display. 

Quite frankly,  I'm actually very disappointed with your posts.  You announced last July that you were "moving on" from UMA and I kind of wish you had just kept on going.

Rob

There was only a VERY small section devoted to Uncle Forry, if we are going to be accurate. A much larger section was devoted to Big Foot and Loch Ness Monster toys. In any event, you have proven my point, thanyou. The UMA does not take objective critisism lightly. I posted (by the way) more as a LONGtime Wonderfest attendee than a former UMA member.

Brother D

Quote from: Brother D on May 18, 2009, 12:51:43 PM
In any event, you have proven my point, thanyou (sic). The UMA does not take objective critisism (sic) lightly.

Silly person... No one got 'heavy' about your dislike of the display; it was your cowardly half-slam of the UMA that would bother anybody.
Your criticism was not at all objective.
How is 'this was MUCH better as a yahoo group' in any way objective? It's your opinion.
How is 'the UMA has become  focused on certain "personalities" (cerain members), and has become very elitist' in any way objective? It's your opinion.
The rest of your post is just the same: 'every (sic) increasing decline in interest', etc. is unprovable, unclaimable. Just your subjective opinion.

If the criticism is based on flawed ideas or simply untrue assertions why should it be taken lightly? No one takes objective criticism lightly, so I don't know what "point" you were trying (poorly) to make in the first place.

Emphasizing your status as a 'LONGtime Wonderfest attendee' doesn't grant you any objectivity or right to gripe; but it does show a bit of an elitist streak.

And what's this about 'former UMA member'? You're still here.


Mike C.

Uhhh...I didn't attend Wonderfest, so please pardon my being confused. Are the Loch Ness Monster and Bigfoot the ones with the ego problem you were referring too??

As for making Uncle Forry's section bigger--how much of Uncle Forry's stuff do you think we have?  Robert Taylor packed a lot of stuff and filled up a large portion of the vehicle that he came in (along with his cousin and his cousin's son).   Joe Moe brought along some key Forry pieces, but if you're looking for Forry's rings or capes, we don't have them.  You have no idea how much time and effort goes into the thing months in advance.  Next time try constructive criticism.

Quote from: Brother D on May 18, 2009, 12:51:43 PM
There was only a VERY small section devoted to Uncle Forry, if we are going to be accurate. A much larger section was devoted to Big Foot and Loch Ness Monster toys. In any event, you have proven my point, thanyou. The UMA does not take objective critisism lightly. I posted (by the way) more as a LONGtime Wonderfest attendee than a former UMA member.

Brother D

Brother D,

The UMA Toy Tour began, and continues, as a labor of love for all the things we as a group have in common.  There is no egotism involved in it.  It is a lot of hard work, planning and a huge group effort - not to mention expense.  As a Wonderfest attendee and UMA member - former or otherwise - you have every right to voice your criticism of the display; but you should expect a passionate response from those people who worked so hard to bring the display to the public.  It is easy enough to be uninvolved and critical; if you care enough about it you should know that any member's efforts in the project are welcomed and appreciated.  

And I think that there are some people who prefer the old days of the Yahoo group, which is valid for those individuals.  However, there is no denying the growth that the group has shown.  Not just in numbers or size, but the depth of conversation, the wealth of information and the ease of using features like pictures and links - there really is no comparison.  I don't think that the spirit of the community has suffered in the least.  This is a welcoming group of people - good people who are passionate about the hobby and good friends to one another.  

Okay. I just posted some pictures from Wonderfest on my website. If you appear in an image or have a model depicted and wish to have it removed just let me know through a PM. I did not include pics from the Old Dark Clubhouse though I have some of those as well.
It was very nice meeting everyone and hope to see you again soon!
http://monstermoviebooks.homestead.com/untitled1.html (http://monstermoviebooks.homestead.com/untitled1.html)

Thank you to the super team of UMA members for the wonderful work done on the UMA display at Wonderfest.  Even though I was not able to attend, the great pictures supplied have been enjoyed greatly.  The exhibit was great, in my humble opinion.  Wish I could have been a part of the group at the event.  Thank you all.  David

Quote from: Brother D on May 18, 2009, 11:45:43 AM
I went, but was not impressed this year with the UMA exhibit. A few changes, but honestly not for the best. I think the UMA has become  focused on certain "personalities" (cerain members), and has become very elitist, and thus has resulted in an every increasing decline in the interest of the UMA display. A good idea would probably be to focus less on these personalities and more on actually generating interest and completely equal discussion of the classic Univeral Monsters topic. This group was MUCH better when it was a Yahoo group.

Brother D

I went last year and I didn't witness any kind of egotism or elitism taking place. On the contrary, as a newcomer to the UMA and to Wonderfest, they made me feel quite welcome. Brother D, you mentioned an emphasis being placed on "certain personalities" but still have not given us any names. If you are referring to those who make the display possible each year, I believe they do deserve attention and recognition for all their hard work and effort. That is not elitism, it is respect and gratitude.

Quote from: drmonster on May 18, 2009, 01:30:43 PM
Okay. I just posted some pictures from Wonderfest on my website.

Thanks for sharing those awesome photos!

Quote from: drmonster on May 18, 2009, 01:30:43 PM
Okay. I just posted some pictures from Wonderfest on my website. If you appear in an image or have a model depicted and wish to have it removed just let me know through a PM. I did not include pics from the Old Dark Clubhouse though I have some of those as well.
It was very nice meeting everyone and hope to see you again soon!
http://monstermoviebooks.homestead.com/untitled1.html (http://monstermoviebooks.homestead.com/untitled1.html)

Great pics, thanks so much for sharing them with those of us who couldn't make it.

Mike C.

Quote from: Brother D on May 18, 2009, 12:51:43 PM
There was only a VERY small section devoted to Uncle Forry, if we are going to be accurate. A much larger section was devoted to Big Foot and Loch Ness Monster toys. In any event, you have proven my point, thanyou. The UMA does not take objective critisism lightly. I posted (by the way) more as a LONGtime Wonderfest attendee than a former UMA member.

Brother D

Wow.

I just returned home from my weekend away to WonderFest.  My 46 year old body (with certain parts that no longer function at optimum capacity) is aching from this weekend's activity of participating in this year's exhibit.  However, my heart was warm and full reflecting on what had been accomplished.  I made a cup of tea, and sat down to check email, and to pop over here to post I made it home, and to read whether or not the sleep-deprived and overworked men who I spent my weekend with arrived home safely.  They have not had a chance to post yet it seems.  Perhaps because-- Terry and Jeff had to drive the rental truck back to Illinois, unload the many hundred pounds of lumber and materials that form the display cases, as well as their own boxes, pick up Jeff's vehicle, return the rental, and get Terry to the airport, after which Jeff could go home.  Raymond, meanwhile is driving back with an over-packed car to St. Louis, and Bobby is heading back to Texas.  That is a lot of driving.  Especially after a lot of lifting, carrying and bending.  These guys are pretty darn tired.  May they be safe and sound wherever they are.  May their packages of toys, those en route being shipped out there, be safe as well.

And then I read this.  It feels like someone just kicked me in the aching knee. 

Wow.  Or more accurately... ow.

But, before I let that knee jerk... *deep breath*

[Note: I am exhausted, sleep deprived and hurting... so no points off for bad spelling or grammar.]

As for the current display...

There were two displays "cases" connected to our dear, wonderful Uncle Forry.  One window was more streamlined and elegant, in the central anchor exhibit wall, the simplicity highlighting the two truly exceptional pieces featured in that window, artifacts that could be said to form the foundation of the man who became 4E.   Another window was jam-packed, filled with an amazing abundance and variety of pieces (thanks to Robert Taylor and Joe Moe).  The one window to which I assume you refer to was probably filled with more "things" than were in any other window there... and the variety and abundance represented a slice of life as it had been at the Ackermansion. 

So... there was the tribute to Forry, the gorgeous art display honoring Meek... and then another theme window special to the show featuring toys produced for the 1979 release of ALIEN, in keeping with the WonderFest theme this year.  (He can hit me for sharing this but... when Raymond's request for toys for that theme window did not garner much response, he sought and purchased toys for the display, at his own expense, even though the movie is not a favorite or a focus of his.  Thank you for all that special effort, Raymond-- the Alien fanatics were loving that window.)

The Bigfoot/Nessie display was anchored front and center with a copy of the book, The Mysterious Monsters... said book from the collection of Forry Ackerman, so, another nod there to Forry.

Shifting gears... regarding the format change from Yahoo to message board...

Brother D, I too preferred the Yahoo group style.  I was sorry when the group moved to this message board format.  It's not as comfortable for me.  However, the UMA can't function solely on my opinion, for my convenience.  There are a LOT of people here, and the success of this forum is clearly visible and undeniable... no matter how little you and I post.  (We both have low post numbers in our profile.)  There are an amazing number of people here, and that membership count that grows daily.  Clearly, there are a number of people who love this new format, and the convenience it affords the majority of folks here is unarguable.  We are in the minority.

However, ultimately it's not a "majority rules" or democracy issue at all.  It's my choice to elect to spend time here interacting with people and reading posts, how much of that time I will spend, whether or not I will come, and I can share my opinions... and get frustrated... but in the end, I remember this group was created by Terry Ingram-- and the stewardship of this group rests ultimately (and I imagine at times heavily) in his hands.  It was his spark, creativity and ingenuity that got this started-- without Terry there would be no UMA, and I think the Monsterkid World would be a sadder place without it. 

This house is a club house that Terry built.  He built it for us, and inspired other people along the way to join in the work of building a home and creating a community.  Ultimately, though, Terry is our host, and we are guests here.

You are welcome to have an opinion... and I hope you will feel that I too am welcome to have one.  As I said earlier, you and I share in common a frustration with this mode of communication-- the message board.  It limits my posting on line, but it does not conflict with my participation "IRL." (In Real Life = as in, when it comes time to build the exhibit.)  It's a big group.  One size won't fit all, but we can find niches and activities within this large community that 'fit' for us.

Where I differ with you is in when and how you delivered this message.  So, my opinion: there are times and places and ways of communicating our opinion.  If I go to a party at my relative's home, dessert is not the best time to tell her I think her decorating style stinks and I don't care for her cooking.

In the days and weeks to come, I am sure there will be posts discussing the exhibit, how it could be improved, if it should continue, what happened at WonderFest, etc.

What I also hope to see are posts discussing how we can involve more people with the UMA exhibit. 

Driving home (rubbing my sore knees and counting the miles until I'd be home and could get a heating pad on my back), it struck me what this group needs is a serious enlistment drive. 

THE UMA NEEDS YOU!

The UMA exhibit needs people to HELP... help with loading, moving and building.  It needs ideas and innovations, imagination and creativity to help it continue... and to become even more amazing than it was this year (and frankly I thought it was the best yet this year).

Brother D, if you are able to attend WonderFest, then you are exactly the kind of candidate we need.  Grab your mess kit and pack your napsack for field duty opportunities abounding! 

There are many ways to get involved! Ideas for window displays, donations of toys for the exhibit, help transporting the exhibit to the hotel, help unloading the exhibit, the hours and hours and hours it takes to set the exhibit, financial assistance to purchase the gas to fuel the truck... and then there are still more ways to help!  During the show, the exhibit needs to be attended... people have to be there when the room opens to check for any changes within the display, to turn on lights and audio/video equipment, be there to greet guests and answer questions.  But wait... there's still more opportunity here!!! When the show is over, then  it's time to carefully unpack the cases, dismantle the displays, load them into the truck, pack all the hardware, lights and materials that are in the display, wrap the Plexiglas and then there are the toys which need to be carefully wrapped and packed, being certain the loaned toys are prepared to ship back to the folks who lent them.

So, your voice has been heard. Help is needed.  We are glad to know you are one of the folks fortunate enough to attend WonderFest.  It would be great to know we could count on your help and support next year, and have your assistance in the yearly battle against the clock that ticks too quickly.

And hopefully other folks out there will be inspired to join in as well-- it's truly a case of 'many hands make light work.'

And next to finally.... ;-)

I am not a collector, which makes my presence here always rather odd.  I am, however, a fan of classic horror, especially the Universal monsters.  I don't operate with a lot of knowledge or authority when it comes to the toys in the display.

Although I am not a collector, there is one area in this where I can speak with some authority.  As a former archaeology/museum studies major, at a college with an outstanding museum program, I was (and I cannot say this strongly enough) BLOWN AWAY the first time I saw the display, by it's professionalism, it's brilliant design, and the engineering ingenuity.  Chatting with John Mitchell, I was sold, and determined to become a more active and participating member of the group I had mostly lurked in up to that point.  Every time I work with the display, I am still stunned by the spot-on brilliance of it all, from how it fits in the truck, to how it goes up, to how it appears.

I am also always impressed and humbled by the dedicated scholarship Raymond brings to the window displays, the themes, periods and materials displayed, the labels and illuminating touches he is dedicated to adding to the exhibit.  His attention to detail is unparalleled and an important part of what elevates this display to museum quality work.

This was my third time participating in the building and dismantling of the exhibit.  I cannot say enough about the wonderful, hard-hard-working people I've worked alongside-- Terry, Raymond, Jeff, Bobby, and others who have worked in amazing and sometimes brutal circumstances.  So much work is involved ahead of time, researching materials for the display, laying out what will go in the cases, getting commitments to loan toys, ascertaining that the toys can arrive at the destination in time to be installed in the exhibit... on top of safely packing those toys, getting all the little odds and ends needed (tape for the exhibit, sticky putty, risers, picture frames, tape to repack boxes), and then the loading and moving of the cases themselves.  The process of making this all happen is one that pretty much guarantees one a hefty measure of stress, out-of-pocket expenditures for supplies and such, and all culminates in a sleep-deprived weekend (which frankly is expensive, with hotel bills, meals out, and such) and unparalleled levels of mental and physical exhaustion at the end.  Each time we figure it out a little more, do it a little fast, get it working better and things going better.  But, it has been and always will be a Harryhausen-level Homeric feat to get that exhibit there, put up and taken down.

Do tempers get short at times when in the heat of display building battle? You betcha.  We get tired and cranky.  When it's done, we are plum worn out.  That may perhaps make someone seem cold and distant when they are standing in front of the display at 4:30 on Saturday, having had little sleep the last couple days, nursing a sore back and wondering if they dug all of that wood splinter out of their hand.

Sure, when you are working under such stress with looming deadlines personalities can tangle and we can ALL drive one another nuts, but at the beginning of the whole thing, when we arrive there, to the last time that we head out to go home... these are guys that I am damn happy to see, to hug, and to work beside.  We are an Army of one... it's the only way to get the job done in the end; so you can't have a problem with one of the construction platoon's personalities without it being about the whole platoon, if you will. ;) 

Having done with difficulties, on to the delights.  So why do it?

Well, Brother D... I can testify, as a battle-tested private (who has a low post count here just like you), that the soldier in the UMA has amazing benefits, benefits you won't find at another group, or another board, or anywhere else.

Such as? The satisfaction of seeing a job well done.  The stunning level of professionalism in the display.  Sharing knowledge.  Educating people.  Spreading the love of the wonderful world of monsters.  Being part of something that is bigger than one person.  Could it get any better?  Bringing people together through the celebration of our beloved monsters... it is absolutely the PERFECT way to keep the torch burning, to keep the spirit of Forrest J Ackerman alive!

This group represents the absolute BEST in fandom.  The UMA is the ultimate "plays well with others" group.  Guys like Terry, Raymond, Bobby, Jeff... members like Robert Taylor and Dan Roebuck... they pack up insanely valuable, highly coveted and long sought collectibles into shipping boxes and mail them across the country.  This is not showing off.  This is unbelievably generous and selfless.  Little things happen here and there-- dings, rips, and such.  So far  no huge losses.  But it's a risk they take each and every time.  Ultimately, though, these guys know the joy of these items is not having stacked in closets or on shelves... it's having them out, where folks can see them, where the positive energy attached to them can generate happy memories and spark more love and appreciation for these monsters.

The UMA exhibit is visible testimony that whenever we fans gather to work together--

Forrest J Ackerman shall not die!

Quote from: mike c on May 18, 2009, 12:19:01 PM

The UMA is the most open, welcoming, least confrontational, least argumentative forum about classic horror around.

Hear!  Hear!  Folks here have gone WAY out of their way to answer any questions I have in the friendliest of tones.  What impresses me most about this forum is the kindness shown to all.

Elizabeth,

That was fantastic.  You said so much while weak and weary, and so much better than I did fully rested.  I thank you for all you did this weekend and in times past.  What you and the others have contributed was effort.  Effort means actually doing something, and not just sitting back thinking that someone else will take care of everything.  I salute our UMA team and their major achievement.  Thank you.

Rob

That was beautifully said, Elizabeth.  It was wonderful to have the pleasure of working with you this past weekend for the first time--far more than that, to have you create the display designs for my Forry artifacts.  I was very pleased--Joe Moe was very pleased--and we both thought that, were he there with us (and we always feel he is in some ways), Forry would have smile his big Forry grin of approval.   Thank you so much, dear friend E!

Quote from: Elizabeth on May 18, 2009, 10:32:01 PM
Forrest J Ackerman shall not die!

Thank you Elizabeth.  I think the above sentence sums it up.  Forry is the example I try to follow as a collector, and the inspiration behind the display.

Sure wish I could have been there.  Silly Navy.  Well, by this time next year, I will have retired, so there's no reason I can't get there next year.

Where is the thread with the pix from this year?

Quote from: Crazy1van on May 19, 2009, 12:09:28 AM
Sure wish I could have been there.  Silly Navy.  Well, by this time next year, I will have retired, so there's no reason I can't get there next year.

Where is the thread with the pix from this year?

Ask and ye shall receive:
http://www.universalmonsterarmy.com/forum/index.php?topic=4449.0 (http://www.universalmonsterarmy.com/forum/index.php?topic=4449.0)
(Actually it's only a few threads below this one!)... Chuck posted his Flickr url, wonderful pics!

Mike C.

Wow, that's a LOT of pix to wade through!  I may have to wait till I'm home to see them all; the network at work doesn't interface with Flickr all that well.

Unfortunately, Marian and I are back at work and Wonderfest is now just a wonderful memory, and I do mean WONDERFUL! This was our fourth Wonderfest in the past five years (we missed last year's), and truly one of the best. While the programming and dealers' room were top-notch, as always, the Old Dark Clubhouse (and everyone in it) was a focal point of this year's Wonderfest for us. But first, back to the programming: the Rondo Awards was the true highlight of the show for us, and not just because we were inducted into the Monster Kid Hall of Fame, an honor we appreciate so much! Two particularly heartwarming moments were, first, the speech by Elizabeth Haney, who accepted the Best Horror Host award for Rich Koz (Svengoolie). She related her experience of being told by a fan how much Rich's show had meant to her and her family and how everyone had gathered to watch the show each week. The second was Joe Moe's (Monster Kid of the Year) acceptance speech, in which he spoke of Forry's last days and the aftermath of his death. Both speeches were heartfelt, and many eyes welled up with tears. A big congratulations to David and Eileen Colton for a fabulous presentation of an equally fabulous award---long live the Rondos! Another very memorable event we attended was the Saturday night screening of The Lost Skeleton Returns Again ("slowly, slowly..."). This sequel to The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra is just as funny, if not funnier, than the original. And seeing it with a crowd that "got it" was even better. On the subject of Lost Skeleton, meeting Larry Blamire and wife Jennifer ("rawrh...") Blaire was a real treat. Larry and Jennifer lived up to all the great comments we'd heard about them; they're both terrific, just like their movies. What fun it must be to work with them on a film; Frank Dietz is one lucky guy! Also, after seeing the preview for Dark and Stormy Night, we're chomping at the bit to see that film as well.

Now, to the Old Dark Clubhouse: This year's theme was Captain Company, and walking through the door was like entering a live version of the back pages of a vintage copy of Famous Monsters of Filmland---it was spectacular, the best Clubhouse ever in our (and many others') opinion. Gary Prange (with some help from Joe "Sorko" Schovitz, who really needs to make the trip to Wonderfest) outdid himself this year. And, take it from someone who's been in a lot of Old Dark Clubhouses over the years (both at Monster Bash and Wonderfest): that's not an easy task, as each year Gary raises the bar. These days, for Marian and me it's not so much about the convention and its activities anymore; it's all about the friendship and camaraderie of the ODCH. It just feels like home, and every year we feel more love and kinship than the year before. It truly is like a family reunion, and all I can say is, man, do I LOVE that place! While sitting in there I thought, How cool would it have been to have had a place like that to hang out in when I was 12 years old?! But, truthfully, it's cool now at 48, because inside (like most of the people who stopped by the ODCH) I'm still a kid, a Monster Kid, and the Old Dark Clubhouse brings out the best in me and everyone who walks through the door. This year a ton of people walked through, maybe more than ever, as the room was constantly packed. Tim and Donna Lucas were almost always present to keep the party hopping. I have to say, Donna Lucas---and Richard Olsen, who, unfortunately, couldn't make it this year---are two of the nicest, kindest, sweetest, and most caring people I've ever met in my life. Both of them light up any room they enter, and Donna's light was burning bright all weekend long! (Congratulations on the first---and only---Dondo Award, Donna!) Along with Gary, Tim, and Donna, many other longtime friends were there, including Joe Busam, Chris and Lisa Herzog, David and Eileen Colton, Donnie Waddell, Linda "Nurse Moan-Eek" Wylie, Bob and Kathy Burns, Harry Hatter, Frank Dietz, Tim Keegan, Kerry Gammill (briefly on Sunday), Terry and Anita Pace (and kids), Dave Conover, Rod Barnett, Troy Guinn, Tim Herron, Max Cheney and Jane Considine, Elizabeth Haney, Terry, Creepy Jeff, Ray, Bobby, and everyone else from the Universal Monster Army (who again had a fabulous toy display, along with a touching tribute to the late Linda Miller), Robert Taylor, Cortlandt Hull, Dennis Vincent, David Schow, Joe Moe, Dick Dyszel (Count Gore De Vol) and wife, and many more. There were also many faces that were new to me, including Larry Thomas (longtime friend of Joe Busam), Mike (Precode) Schlesinger, Larry Blamire and Jennifer Blaire, Cameron McCasland, Jovanka Vuckovic (Editor of Rue Morgue magazine), artists Ken Kelly and Ethan Black, and many others. True to form, our newfound friends are just as wonderful as our longtime buddies! It's hard to put into words the vibe that's always present in the Old Dark Clubhouse, but it's something special that I'll treasure for the rest of my life. I'd also like to mention what a wonderful time we had Friday night when about 22 of us went to a local sushi bar (Sapporo) for dinner. Good food, beer, saki, and conversation flowed freely all night. I've never seen so much sushi pass before my eyes. I think I can speak for all of us when I say we left the restaurant stuffed and happy!

As always, this magical weekend ended too soon; unfortunately, we had to leave late Sunday afternoon. It was hard to say goodbye to everyone, knowing that it may be a whole year before our paths cross again (although we're determined to try our hardest to attend the Wonderfest Reunion in November). Everything about the weekend was perfect, and being inducted into the Monster Kid Hall of Fame was the icing on the cake! If only we could all pile into Bob Burns' Time Machine, journey back to May 15th, and do it all again, maybe even going back far enough to bring Lugosi, Karloff, Chaney Jr, Price, and many others along to share in the joy and pleasure the Old Dark Clubhouse brings. To everyone whose path crossed ours this past Wonderfest weekend, we raise our glasses and toast you, our dearest friends!

Love and Friendship Always,

Jim & Marian Clatterbaugh

Brother D~

I wish I had the opportunity to meet you in person at Wonderfest, and am sorry to have missed out on that.  It seems that many of our members were shy about approaching us at the convention, and this and your comments gives me pause to think that something about the way we are dealing with things could be improved to be more welcoming.  I think your comments and feelings are based on your experience, and I'd love to hear more about why you feel that way and possibly what we could do to improve in the future.  If you don't feel comfortable posting in the forum (the Brother D criticism is ramping up, and I think he has something valuable to share), through email, private message, or phone would especially be most welcome.  I have to run out right now but I'll PM you in a bit. 



Everyone, please go easy on him.  It's rare that people share their real feelings when they are along the lines of what Brother D shared, and it's from that we are able to learn and improve.   Congratulations are always nice, but from them we learn nothing..

I posted this in another thread, but it seems to pertain here:
"I was at Wonderfest, but I think I only actually ever spoke to Raymond Castile and DrMonster from the UMA. I saw Terry making a deal for a Formex set, and believe I spotted Mr. and Mrs. Severed Head and a few other folks. My own natural shyness and lack of social skills always make me a bit unsure of approaching people I only know from online. The display looked very nice this year. I spent too much money on odds and ends in the dealer's room. I'll post a pic of my swag once I get a chance to edit my pics."
I saw quite a few familiar faces from the UMA over the course of Saturday, but I felt kinda weird about following them around, knowing they wouldn't have a clue as to who I was.
George

George, Your post fills me with regret!  Every one of the UMA folks you name is so very warm and welcoming--just coming forth and introducing yourself would have brought forth a volley of handshakes and hugs and smiles, and your initial shyness would have been evaporated like a skim of dew under the bright morning sun!  Next time, my friend, next time--we want to meet you and greet you!

Toyranch and Elizabeth (and others),

Thankyou for acknowledging that I have a right to my opinion. I would remind others that I praised the UMA display the first two years around. I gave an honest opinion of this year's set-up. As for helping out...well, to be precise I volunteered a number of times the last couple of years. and was never sent a reply. That, and the fact that no matter what you post, if you're not in the "in crowd" you generally get ignored, or very little interest, prompted me to wander away from the group to begin with (especially considering I had been a member, and regular poster, for a number of years prior to the move, and even afterwards). Yes, I did hate the move from Yahoo, because I felt Yahoo was more public, and allowed for a greater variety of people to participate (and thus reflected a less "exclusive" feel to it). The new site has always been uncomfortable for me to navigate,  and again was geared toward the "inner-circle". I really only dropped back by on a whim to give my critique of this year's display. Since I received such a vicious response (not unexpected) I won't visit or post again. Those posts I received in response pretty much prove my point. I have plenty of other  groups and extra-internet projects I am involved in. I wish all well, and will leave you with this...Uncle Forry was NEVER elitist or exclusive-- he opened his home to thousands of people over the decades, and was one of the most charming men I ever met, very unassuming and unpretentious. Peace and Blessings.

Brother D

Posting, whether in email posts (like Yahoo) or on a board like this, is really a limiting form of communication.  As humans, we communicate with more than just words... we use body language, facial expression, vocal changes and such to convey further meaning to our words.

Brother D, it strikes me (and I certainly could be wrong) that there might be a measure of miscommunication here.  In saying that, please know that I am not being dismissive of your feelings... and again, I might be wrong.  But it feels like really this could be a misunderstanding and more of a communication snafu (however that is spelled). 

However, to be honest... I am still hurting so bad here and so exhausted (and I would guess the other folks who were there this weekend are feeling similarly), that I am concerned a day or two recovery is needed for thoughtful replies to flow... so I would sincerely urge that you not just step away from the group here, Brother D, but give folks a couple days to recuperate and recharge, and perhaps then we can begin a truly useful exchange. 

As for marginalizing people, I can only speak to my own experience...

When I first saw the exhibit at WonderFest 2007, and met the guys in person, and volunteered to help, I said, "See you at Monster Bash."  So... when I got to Monster Bash that year, around 9pm on Thursday night, I simply went in and found someone to direct me to where the group was working, walked in and said, "Give me something to do."  The guys handed me rags, cleaning solution, and pointed me to the windows, and I got to work.  When I ran out of stuff to do, they pointed me somewhere else.  Thus did the insanity begin.

As a woman, I can tell you there are MANY times I feel marginalized in this hobby. 

However, the men here in the UMA have not done that to me.

I've never heard anyone working in or around the display ever say anything about not wanting someone around.  Quite the contrary, what is generally lamented is not having more hands and help.

And, as far as message boards go... I do agree with others who have said the UMA board is one of the most civil communities you will find on-line.  I've seen some really unpleasant exchanges at most of the other horror groups on line, and there are places I will not post, because frankly I find the atmosphere too stressful.

But that is not unique to horror/sci-fi fandom...

I used to moderate a discussion board for homemakers, and you would not believe the flame wars that could be generated there over homemaking methodology, religion, immunization, breastfeeding... Halloween!

Give folks a few days to get unpacked, get their land legs back (mine feel like rubber) and catch up on home stuff and sleep, before you give up on the UMA.

Beast witches to all!
-Elizabeth

Our intention isn't elitist or exclusive at all, and I'm sorry you got that impression from us.  The display is a huge amount of work and whenever a member comes to us during setup or teardown of it offering help, they have plenty to do.  One of the problems with having the toy display as our convention contribution is that it's so much work we spend all weekend working on it or with it and don't have much time for anything else.  Friday I left the motel in Little Rock at 6:30am and drove 9 hours to Louisville, arriving at 3:30pm.   Then worked on the display until about 9:30 when I went to dinner for a bit, and came back and worked until midnight or so.  Then I was back up at 7 when they opened the door for setup again. 

When folks came up to talk, invariably I was interrupted by something to do for or with the display and then they'd wander off. 



As far as the Old Dark Clubhouse goes...  I don't have anything to do with it, but at the Rondo Awards ceremony (a listed event, open to anyone and everyone), David Colton invited the whole room of a couple hundred or more people to the ODC and gave out the room number over the mic. 

Quote from: Toy Ranch on May 19, 2009, 11:28:35 AM
As far as the Old Dark Clubhouse goes...  I don't have anything to do with it, but at the Rondo Awards ceremony (a listed event, open to anyone and everyone), David Colton invited the whole room of a couple hundred or more people to the ODC and gave out the room number over the mic. 

Yep... I went up to take a peek this year because the room number was announced at the Rondos.

It's good that Bobby raised this distinction too.

The Old Dark Clubhouse is an off-shoot of the Classic Horror Board, that sponsors the Rondos.  So... comments about that room/group should best be directed to the folks at the CHB.

Closest to our hearts here is the traveling exhibit, and how to keep that rocking.

I just wanted to say how great it was to see some of you at Wonderfest. I wasn't able to arrive until Sunday afternoon due to a family event. Sorry I missed some of you, but seeing Robert, Terry, Raymond, Elizabeth and some others was wonderful. The display was fantastic. It was a particular treat to see some of those masks from the old Captain Company ads in the "flesh" for the first time. I had the Lagoon Monster mask when I was a teen but it disintegrated after a few years from the Texas heat. Too bad they didn't make those out of a little bit thicker rubber. A few more of them might still exist. I love the UMA membership kit and the disc with an unbelievable amount of great, rare hi-res photos and posters. Many thanks!

Something I'm not sure if we communicate well...

Terry and Raymond paid for the materials for the display out of pocket, and John Mitchell built it for us at no charge.  He also stored it, sometimes piled up in his home!) for several years.  Setup and loading takes about 12 hours.  Taking it down is much less time, 4 or 5 hours.  Jeff has it stored at his place of work in Chicago.  Terry flies in and helped Jeff load it (and Elizabeth often pitches in with this somewhere along the line too).  Then it's a 6 hour drive to Louisville for the assembly.  Raymond planned all the displays, working with Robert on the Forry memorial and Max on the Meek memorial.  Robert spoke with Joe Moe about lending the very personal items like Forry's personal copies of FM#1 and Amazing Stories #26 and the SCIFI license plate and brought wonderful items he's collected.  Raymond received a lot of that in St Louis and drove it in.  Then all the work began.  The conventions give us a place to set up, and after the first couple exhibits we added a comped room to the "rider".  They don't pay the UMA to bring the exhibit.  All money for that is raised through donations and the proceeds from various items we sell.  Richard Olsen does most of the graphics for the display, as well as the membership kit, posters, etc.  He printed them for us to sell to raise money for the display.  It's a labor of love, representing hundreds of hours of work, thousands of out-of-pocket dollars, and a gargantuan overall effort to make it happen. 

Some expect it to contain the rarest and best, but actually that's not the goal.  At the end of the packing a Wonderfest staff member walked up and struck up a conversation about Big Frankie in the exhibit.  He still has the Big Frankie he bought new at the store as a kid and never built.  He treasures it and remembers the drug store where he bought it, and the owner who invented a "layaway" plan so he could afford it over a couple months without someone else buying it.  All weekend long we hear stories like this from people who see something they remember and it brings up those wonderful memories of happy times in childhood.  That's why the exhibit exists.  That's what we get out of it.  That, and hanging out with other UMA members and con attendees...  We could fill it with stuff so rare nobody's ever seen it before, and we put a few things like that in it, but people see the stuff they remember and it makes them happy and that's what the exhibit and the UMA are all about. 

Quote from: Elizabeth on May 19, 2009, 11:34:18 AM
Yep... I went up to take a peek this year because the room number was announced at the Rondos.

It's good that Bobby raised this distinction too.

The Old Dark Clubhouse is an off-shoot of the Classic Horror Board, that sponsors the Rondos.  So... comments about that room/group should best be directed to the folks at the CHB.

Elizebeth, I was heavily involved in the genesis of the Old Dark Clubhouse. It's no more an offshoot of the CHB than it is the UMA. As to the present, I am unaware of any group sponsership of it. But I am not a member of the CHB so things may have changed. Please explain more.
The Rondo Awards are sponsered by the CHB, I believe.
Best,
Richard

Just a very quick post to let everyone know that I'm back in one piece and still very much alive .. well, sort of.  I plan on posting later this evening with gratitude for everyone who assisted us, supported us, and apparently even ignored us.  I also look forward to addressing Brother D's post in particular.  I will say real quick, we are a lot of things alright, but we are NOT an elitist organization or community! Never have been, never will be. I can swallow almost any kind of criticism you can throw my way, but that is certainly not one of them. I know myself and the people involved with the UMA way too well to allow a comment like that to go unaddressed.

It's great to be back home, but I still feel as if I'm in Louisville, Kentucky.  :-\

Quote from: Richard on May 19, 2009, 02:31:46 PM
Elizebeth, I was heavily involved in the genesis of the Old Dark Clubhouse. It's no more an offshoot of the CHB than it is the UMA. As to the present, I am unaware of any group sponsership of it. But I am not a member of the CHB so things may have changed. Please explain more.
The Rondo Awards are sponsered by the CHB, I believe.
Best,
Richard

If anything the Old Dark Clubhouse is a offshoot of Richard Olson, Gary Prange, and Joe "Sorko" Schovitz, the fact that a lot of Classic Horror Film Board members frequent it is because they know where a good time can be had! :) But the ODCH excludes no one unless you make an a$$ of yourself there. The Rondo Awards are sponsored and paid for by David Colton, they are promoted through the CHFB which David is the founder of. I hope this clarifies things.

Richard, I think of the ODC in terms of the Classic Horror board, because Gary, David, and the rest of the usual suspects mostly post there.  As to it's origins being there, that's an association I made in my head, not from facts, just because it's where most of them post.  To my understanding, Gary was more or less a one man band on putting things together this year, with some support from others of course.  It really looked cool! 

I'm sorry you weren't able to make it Richard.  You were missed very much, and we talked about your absence and contributions often over the weekend.  The buttons you made for Monsters From The Vault were a huge hit!  Those who hadn't seen the Membership Kits in person were knocked out by how cool they are. 

I know Elizabeth, Raymond, Terry, Jeff and I are all bone weary and exhausted.  Heck, I forgot to mention Max's contributions earlier, and Elizabeth's husband Dave.  Probably forgot some other stuff too.   

One area in which we have been remiss is that we need to have a member get-together other than the group photo.  A dinner or something to give all UMA members a chance to hang out and spend time together without having work involved.  The nature of the exhibit is such that there is so much work we don't have much energy for anything else, but that needs to be re-thought going forward.  There are some understandably frayed feelings in this thread.  I'm not going to lock it, but if we could start over talking about Wonderfest elsewhere, maybe we could leave some of this behind.

Welcome back everyone! I sure missed going and seeing my friends but there'll be others. Great job spreading MONSTER JOY .

Quote from: Brother D on May 18, 2009, 11:45:43 AM
I went, but was not impressed this year with the UMA exhibit. A few changes, but honestly not for the best. I think the UMA has become  focused on certain "personalities" (cerain members), and has become very elitist, and thus has resulted in an every increasing decline in the interest of the UMA display. A good idea would probably be to focus less on these personalities and more on actually generating interest and completely equal discussion of the classic Univeral Monsters topic. This group was MUCH better when it was a Yahoo group.

Brother D

Ask not what the UMA can do for you, but what you can do for the UMA.

And I'm not talking about building exhibits or sending money either. 

Look, you're only going to feel as involved as you choose to get. Coming into this thread after months of being inactive, just to take a shot at the exhibit and this community, is an easy cheap shot in my opinion. Especially considering it was you Brother Damien who made no effort whatsoever in approaching any of us during the weekend. Elitist? Exactly. Had you announced yourself, we would have welcomed you with open arms. And if it was further involvement you were looking for, we would have gladly passed you a hammer. Again, you're only as involved as you wish to be. 

I wasn't even going to respond to this matter since it is mostly without merit, but there's too many wonderful people who make this all possible not to. And guess what? The majority of those people weren't even at the convention! They are the good folks who make up this entire community. The landscapers, postmen, reporters, teachers, managers, custodians, librarians, soldiers, doctors – people from all walks of life. Everyday folks who regularly contribute (and sometimes silently)  in making this one of the best monster forums found anywhere on the web.

You can criticize the exhibit all you want and I won't ever flinch, but to label this forum as one built on a few "star personalities" with an elitist flair is not only insulting, it's damn near crazy.

Speaking of our soldiers, has anyone heard from John Mitchell?

BK

Quote from: michblk on May 19, 2009, 09:19:59 PM
Speaking of our soldiers, has anyone heard from John Mitchell?

BK

He sent me a Facebook message Thursday asking if I had left for Louisville yet.  I replied from the hotel that I was already there.  I haven't heard back since.

Quote from: fmofmpls on May 19, 2009, 08:39:05 PM
Ask not what the UMA can do for you, but what you can do for the UMA.
...
The landscapers, postmen, reporters, teachers, managers, custodians, librarians, soldiers, doctors – people from all walks of life. Everyday folks who regularly contribute (and sometimes silently)  in making this one of the best monster forums found anywhere on the web.
You can criticize the exhibit all you want and I won't ever flinch, but to label this forum as one built on a few "star personalities" with an elitist flair is not only insulting, it's damn near crazy.

Hear! Hear!.
Terry, Bobby, et al, I'd really like to do nothing more than go back to yesterday and elect NOT to post my replies to Brother Damien; I was one of the first to respond to the Brother D post Terry has quoted here, and while I do not retract a single sensibility exhibited in my reply, I know it made some, including Brother D, upset.
I never want to stir up hard feelings, but my own passion for not only the UMA but all the things I hold dear in my life sometimes make me kneejerk, and rather than the more controlled, mature examples shown by Toy Ranch and Elizabeth, I sometimes shoot without aiming very well. Please accept my apologies, I have been a part of the negativity currently running through this thread.
I suppose I need a thicker skin.
I joined to enjoy, not to inflame.
But it's just... when someone insults others with simply baffling and unfounded 'objective criticism', and then cries foul that he was unable to express his 'opinion' (flip-flop!) it makes me upset.
And then when that person plays the victim, and in his 'final post' tries to level an Uncle Forry lesson about openness and a welcoming attitude... please don't ever do that. We ALL knew and loved him in our way, and I believe his brand of kindness is EXEMPLIFIED in the UMA. Don't ever tell a UMA soldier what Forry was about... we have known for a long time.

And so I guess all of that was at the core of my irritation.

If my passion is a symptom of an immaturity that had a part in making the UMA forum a place where some feel elitism runs rampant, I am truly sorry.

I will be going to Monsterpalooza next weekend, my first 'all-alone-go-to-the-bash' convention ever. I am SO looking forward to meeting not only fellow UMA soldiers but any and all monster lovers; I hope to represent the best the UMA is about, as well as just being myself and having a great time.
I need to remember that every time I enjoin the members of this fine forum, the same hope and easy-going attitude should apply.

But let no one think the UMA is anything less than the single most open, welcoming, unassuming classic monster board anywhere. We share knowledge, and answer the same questions we asked ourselves when we were new to things. We laugh at stupid jokes, entertain ridiculously fun fantasies, and argue useless trivial facts with gusto. We wish each other happy birthdays, happy weddings/anniversaries/baby/grandbaby births, we call each other when there are hard times. We look out for each other, whether newbies, veterans or all the equally meaningless levels in between. We surprise each other with packages of monster goodies, come to each others' aid, and delight in each others' joys, toys and scores. Should there be something MORE than this?

I'm sorry for any bad feelings. But don't insult my team.

Mike C.

Thank you, Mike.  We appreciate your strong loyalty and love for the group.  If your kneejerk reaction post did inflame matters a bit--it was nonetheless well-meant on your part.  Devoted UMA friends like you are, I suspect, more the rule than the exception.  As General Terry says, say what you will about the toy/Forry exhibit--but I will echo him in stating that this is possibly the least elitist group imaginable.   When I joined the UMA some years ago, I felt a little uncertain about whether or not I belonged--it is, after all, at heart, a toy collectors' group, and I don't collect toys (and still know damn little about 'em!).  I was taken in and made welcome.  It's a great gang of folks.

UMA Elder, Robert Taylor

Quote from: Toy Ranch on May 19, 2009, 03:40:09 PM
Richard, I think of the ODC in terms of the Classic Horror board, because Gary, David, and the rest of the usual suspects mostly post there.  As to it's origins being there, that's an association I made in my head, not from facts, just because it's where most of them post.  To my understanding, Gary was more or less a one man band on putting things together this year, with some support from others of course.  It really looked cool! 

Bobby, you are correct.

To explain a bit to all-
Gary Prange has taken the Old Dark Clubhouse under his personal care and has made it more wonderous every year! He IS the heart & soul of it now! I think the confusion that it is a Classic Horror Film Board "retreat" is due to the fact that it was created by people who knew each other through the old AOL Classic Horror board (which is NOW the Classic Horror Film Board~ CHFB) and originally wanted a cool place to hang out after hours at the Monster Bash in Pennsylvania. I attended Monster Bash #1 & #2 (1997 and 1998) and remember discussions of fixing up a room with a monster kid theme. Monster Bash #2 (1998) was the real start of everything. Gary Prange and Joe 'Sorko' Schovitz were the main creators at the start and continued to build the idea, pushing each other on year after year to make the Old Dark Clubhouse more complex & cool than the one before it. But many contributed each year with ideas, items, artwork,  $, time ~me included.

The Old Dark Clubhouse has always been 'open' to anyone but tends to have it's regular attendees each year (sort of a yearly family reunion  :D ) Unfortunatly, the room is only so big and can easily become overcrowded! That may make some people feel that it is an "exclusive club" if they can't get in because of no room (keep in mind, in this state of overcapacity, people probably can't get out either!).
Someone has to be in the room and be responsible if the door is open for visitors. In the past, a handful of us each had keys to the room so it could remain locked when not occupied. A danger of an unguarded, unattended open door policy is damage from vandalism, mischief or theft. There can be some expensive/rare items in the room which need to remain there. Any damage to the room itself becomes the responsibility of the signing guest (Gary). Pop, chips, beer (which ain't free to obtain for the room) will "walk off" if not under control (I saw this actually happen~ a stranger walked in, grabbed a few beers out of the cooler, and walked out down the hall without so much as a look at the room, a "Hi" to the occupants, nor a "thanks" for the free beer). Gary's high voltage 'jacob's ladder' could cause real trouble if someone touched it. This is NOT being snobbish or elitist. It's protecting the room experience for the enjoyment of all.

Did I mention the large amount of work to make this room happen?! Like the UMA display, the ODCh doesn't just set itself up and take itself down. It takes a lot of work, before the show event and afterwards.
.
Again, this is a cool little monster kid room (Gary Prange's labor of monster kid love)~ open for view and fellowship for anyone at appropriate times. My original concern (with Brother D's implication that the Old Dark Clubhouse is an elitist group or exclusive member's club) was to set the record straight about the ODCh. Because it 'seems' to be CHFB controlled~ well, that's just because the regular attendees almost all started with the AOL boards. Many here at the UMA did too.

Best,
Richard

ps. I miss seeing everybody so much! It makes me very sad talking about the Old Dark ClubHouse and the UMA Display these past couple days, and thinking of another "missed" WonderFest. So, I will hold further comment for now. I really appreciate seeing the pictures and hearing the stories of WonderFest though! Thanks to all for posting!!!

Richard, your absence is felt.  I hope I see you at a show sometime in the next 12 months.  And if we do the display at Wonderfest again next year, you really HAVE to be there.  That's an order, soldier.

Hey, just wanted to say I had a great time at Wonderfest and it was great meeting you guys.  I only got to speak with a few of you on Sunday but it was nice finally meeting you guys!

Can't wait for the next event that UMA attends (formally or informally).

Jasen

Jasen, It was a pleasure to meet you!  I didn't stand and talk, for which I apologize, but my Wonderfest experience this year was troubled with my back/hip pains (hence the constant cane I was leaning on).  From now on, when I see "getter", I'll have a face to put with the name!  Glad you stopped by and introduced yourself!

I also heard that Ranier (Nightmares in Plastic) was there all the way from Germany.  Ranier, can you confirm?

Rob

Quote from: monsterphile on May 20, 2009, 09:06:54 AM
I also heard that Ranier (Nightmares in Plastic) was there all the way from Germany.  Ranier, can you confirm?

Rob

He was there.  He came up and talked to us.

Hey All,

I finally made it home and got caught up on some much-needed sleep!

I want to thank everyone who put in so much of their time and effort to make the UMA display this year and every year so much fun for me. It's really appreciated.

And Elizabeth, it was so nice to meet you and talk with you at the show! I'd love for the UMA members to have, say, a breakfast get-together at next year's show. I know maybe 8-10 members on sight, and since most members don't exactly resemble their avatars (ha ha) I can't pick members out of the crowds at the show!

I look forward to meeting more UMAers at Monsterpalooza and at next year's Wonderfest!

-Tim

Yeah Monsterphile- for the forth time in a row I attended WF- and had a blast!

Was great talking to the UMA members, even I wished to have some more time to do so. I had to catch up with all my magazines writers & modelers as well, so heck, blame me how time flies!

The display: Hats off to those who put it together! I liked it very much (wish I had only half of the stuff) and can't see any "elitist" thing going on there - The Memorial to Meek was touching and reminded me how much she's missing. Everybody was friendly and approachable. Picked up a Terry Toys Dracula and can only recommend everybody to get one - it couldn't get any better. More characters ...pleeeease with maggots on top!

Bought of course lots of Kits like f. ex. Ceasare from Caligari, a lifesize Mummy and Lugosi head and even found that '76 King Kong Whiskey bottle at an Antique Mall in Bullit County. The latter unfortunately didn't make it in one piece - shattered to pieces only the head survived. But I finally got me a Big Frankie and  Monster scenes figures, whoooza!

I salute the General, Creepy Jeff, Ray, Elder Robert , Frank Dietz and those I forgot now: Hope to see you all again next year!

PS: Robert, I scan the piece we talked about within the next days (first I have to get back in gear jetlagwise) and give you a heads up!

Quote from: Richard on May 19, 2009, 02:31:46 PM
Elizebeth, I was heavily involved in the genesis of the Old Dark Clubhouse. It's no more an offshoot of the CHB than it is the UMA. As to the present, I am unaware of any group sponsership of it. But I am not a member of the CHB so things may have changed. Please explain more.

Sorry for the lag in replying here to your direct post-- and nice to meet you, Richard! :)

I read both your original post here, and the longer post you made later in this thread, with the Clubhouse history.

My intention was in no way to indicate that I had any kind of background information or additional information on the Old Dark Clubhouse.  (And I hope I did not sound off-handed, dismissive or disrespectful in anything I posted previously.)

My intention was, rather, to echo what Bobby said: that our focus here (on this board) should be on this community, and the UMA exhibit.

Criticisms, comments and so forth regarding the ODCH would be more appropriately shifted over to the CHB, and onto Gary P's broad shoulders a moderator at that community.

And I do indeed concur with you that there are a lot of parallels in terms of work load with the UMA exhibit and the ODCH room decorations-- it was very apparent that a great deal of forethought, work and thoughtfulness goes into making those decorations and creating the atmosphere in that room!

To be honest, it made me miss some of the art work that the UMA used to display with the exhibit... the large reproductions of the cards from the Old Maid style card game and Remco package faces and such... and I can't believe I just said that, because I think the last time those were displayed, I got to do a lot of the sticking up, and boy did that take a long time...

Quote from: UniversalTim on May 20, 2009, 04:16:18 PM
And Elizabeth, it was so nice to meet you and talk with you at the show! I'd love for the UMA members to have, say, a breakfast get-together at next year's show. I know maybe 8-10 members on sight, and since most members don't exactly resemble their avatars (ha ha) I can't pick members out of the crowds at the show!

I too really enjoyed having the chance to chat with you, Tim!

The weekend went by in such a flash-- it's kind of a blur now, and hard to remember if I have the right faces to go with the names, after meeting so many folks.

I think your suggestion for a get-together at breakfast time is a great idea-- it's such a tricky meal to get at the hotel, if the buffet lines get long, so maybe we could figure something out with that.

And I *do* look like my avatar... when I have my hair up.

Quote from: Brother D on May 18, 2009, 11:45:43 AM
I went, but was not impressed this year with the UMA exhibit. A few changes, but honestly not for the best. I think the UMA has become  focused on certain "personalities" (cerain members), and has become very elitist, and thus has resulted in an every increasing decline in the interest of the UMA display. A good idea would probably be to focus less on these personalities and more on actually generating interest and completely equal discussion of the classic Univeral Monsters topic. This group was MUCH better when it was a Yahoo group.

Brother D

As a newbie and virtual NOBODY on the UMA, I've experienced ZERO elitism. I've been welcomed, befriended, and inundated with gifts for my 8 year old son to encourage his love of the Monsters.

Elitist?? Hardly.

We're friendly folks, by and large (I am one of the "large", of course!).  Everyone is welcome--and then, of course, one's bed is what one makes it.  I think some folks make their beds out of thorns and rocks, though why that is completely escapes this old codger.  You, now--you came in and carried a comfy chair out of the corner and--well, here's to ya, Scatter!  Cheers!

I think having Ootmas would make everybody happy!

Or a nap. 

Naps always make me happy.  :D

Quote from: Elizabeth on May 20, 2009, 07:34:11 PM
To be honest, it made me miss some of the art work that the UMA used to display with the exhibit... the large reproductions of the cards from the Old Maid style card game and Remco package faces and such... and I can't believe I just said that, because I think the last time those were displayed, I got to do a lot of the sticking up, and boy did that take a long time...

I miss that artwork, too.  Maybe there will be a way to return some of that decor in 2011.  I don't think it will happen next year, but we have some ideas that might make it possible the following year, with John Mitchell's help.

Quote from: typhooforme on May 20, 2009, 09:32:15 PM
We're friendly folks, by and large (I am one of the "large", of course!).  Everyone is welcome--and then, of course, one's bed is what one makes it.  I think some folks make their beds out of thorns and rocks, though why that is completely escapes this old codger.  You, now--you came in and carried a comfy chair out of the corner and--well, here's to ya, Scatter!  Cheers!

Thanks, and cheers to you my friend.

Some pics  http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v640/barnabus/?action=view&current=100_0760.jpg    Just click on view album.

ELIZABETH writ: "Or a nap... Naps always make me happy."  :D
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
... Or, a "PAN", as "NAP" is spelled, Backwards!  ;)
... Howe'er, a BED-PAN would be a DEB-NAP, or, NAP-DEB. Consult your loco, local, low-cal, Listings.

````````````````````````````````````````

PACKY PAUL writ: "I think having Ootmas would make everybody happy!"
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
... Or, "OOTMAHS", spelled, backwards, is "SHAMTOO", which we're, decidedly, not!
... Merely, an earlier form, no doubt, of the product name: "SHAMWOW!"
... 'Cos, we "clean up our Act!"
... Nor, should "HAPPY" be, ought, save, "Y PP, AH-h-h-h-h-h-h-h!" Rather self-explanatory, eh wot?!  ::)
... And, never, "SAD" :'( !
... Howe'er, were we, to replace the letter "T", with the letter "P":
... Then "OOPMAHS" would be "SHAMPOO", in reverse form... and, worth, everso, much, more!
Remember; the word, "FROWN", spelled, backwards, may be "NWORF", but, upside down, it's a "SMILE"! :)
EXANIMO EVERNOW,
BARON TIMOTHEUS, OOTMAH, of JUNE, AD 2006  :-*

As always Baron, your thought processes would boggle the mind... had I one to boggle.

Quote from: HARRY HAMMOCK on May 20, 2009, 10:31:35 PM
Some pics  http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v640/barnabus/?action=view&current=100_0760.jpg    Just click on view album.

Cool pics Harry...........THANKS!!

Quote from: BARON TIMOTHEUS BGG on May 21, 2009, 11:46:25 AM
ELIZABETH writ: "Or a nap... Naps always make me happy."  :D
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
... Or, a "PAN", as "NAP" is spelled, Backwards!  ;)
... Howe'er, a BED-PAN would be a DEB-NAP, or, NAP-DEB. Consult your loco, local, low-cal, Listings.

````````````````````````````````````````

PACKY PAUL writ: "I think having Ootmas would make everybody happy!"
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
... Or, "OOTMAHS", spelled, backwards, is "SHAMTOO", which we're, decidedly, not!
... Merely, an earlier form, no doubt, of the product name: "SHAMWOW!"
... 'Cos, we "clean up our Act!"
... Nor, should "HAPPY" be, ought, save, "Y PP, AH-h-h-h-h-h-h-h!" Rather self-explanatory, eh wot?!  ::)
... And, never, "SAD" :'( !
... Howe'er, were we, to replace the letter "T", with the letter "P":
... Then "OOPMAHS" would be "SHAMPOO", in reverse form... and, worth, everso, much, more!
Remember; the word, "FROWN", spelled, backwards, may be "NWORF", but, upside down, it's a "SMILE"! :)
EXANIMO EVERNOW,
BARON TIMOTHEUS, OOTMAH, of JUNE, AD 2006  :-*

Trying to decide whether I'm in the presence of madness or genius. Or if there's even a difference.

Harry, I love those photos!  That one of the Medusa--with her varied and different snakes--what a beautiful model!

I really wish i would have had the money to buy the Dimensional Designs Mummy ring while I was there. :'(

I posted our photos from Wonderfest on the Classic Horror Film Board and they can be viewed here:

http://monsterkidclassichorrorforum.yuku.com/topic/23755 (http://monsterkidclassichorrorforum.yuku.com/topic/23755)

I decided just to post the link here instead of posting them all for a second time.

Jim, thanks for posting those!  I want one of those Aurora posters that says "More Movie Monsters Are On The Loose".  Does anyone sell those?

BK

Wow, Jim.  Thanks for the link.  The ODCH looked fantastic!  By far my favorite theme yet; just amazing.

Just wanted to pop in and say how much I enjoyed the UMA display this year, particularly the homage to FJA.  I really loved the Metropolis robot face and hands and I never can get enough of the Dick Smith Dorian Gray noggin.  Believe me, I know how much work, logistics and planning go into an exhibit like that, which is another reason I wanted to convey my appreciation.

Regarding the ODCH, it is as Richard describes, though he really was the inspiration behind its evolution when he brought his 8mm projector and home movies into the room (which was simply one of our hotel rooms in the beginning).  Each year a little more planning went into it until it became the unbridled monster that each year threatens to destroy its creator.  Now if only I could get Sorko and Richard physically back into the room . . . (physically because spiritually they never left it).

I'd also like to add a bit to the conversation about the accusations of elitism.  That's a symptom of growing pains -- and UMA is growing pretty fast!   I remember being taken aback when that kind of accusation first cropped up on the CHFB back in the AOL days.  I think what happens is that new members show up among friendships that were established years ago and feel a little out of the loop.  Usually all it takes is fairly regular participation to feel more a part of things.  Just give it some time.  It also helps if more seasoned members go out of their way to welcome new members.  It's easy when a forum is small; less so when it gets larger and a new member can quickly fall through the cracks.

As the CHFB grew many members naturally gravitated toward other members they felt particularly close to for whatever reason.  Same sense of humor, same taste in films -- it can be anything.   That's the way friendships develop in the real world.  It's something of a paradox because the larger a forum grows, the easier it is to feel lost or overwhemed.  But it's also easier to be scooped up by an established group of friends or start a new alliance of friendships within the forum.  For example the more artistically inclined members of the CHFB have really gravitated toward one another, which is a pretty cool thing, especially how they encourage each other.

Terry summed up participation when he posted that you are as involved as you want to be.  It really is that simple.  One person can make a heck of a lot of difference in an organization or forum.  All you have to do is step up.

BTW, spellcheck suggested I change Sorko to Sicko.  Heh, heh, heh . . .

Thank you Gary for dropping in.  I really enjoyed the ODCH this year.  Fantastic work.  I'm a big Topstone fan, so that display jumped out at me.  The life-size Frankie was beautiful.  But as elaborate as the displays were, they did not seem untouchable or intimidating.  People could still let their hair down and have fun.  It felt like a party room, not a museum.  You established a certain atmosphere, then stepped back and let it take on a life of its own.  A very impressive job on many levels.

Crazy 1van writ: "As always Baron, your thought processes would boggle the mind... had I one to boggle."
Scatter writ: "Trying to decide whether I'm in the presence of madness or genius. Or if there's even a difference."
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
... A very fine line, at best... but, who's counting?  ;) ME! I LUFF TO COUNT! VUN! TWO! THREE!

Gary, It was a tremendous pleasure for me to bring the Robotrix head and the Dorian Gray head as well as my other lesser Forry artifacts from my collection, and it pleases me more than I can say that you and other Wonderfest attendees enjoyed seeing them.  Thanks very much for your kind comments!  Sharing his collectibles was something Forry did regularly, but I don't often have an opportunity to do the same, and particularly not for such a large appreciative audience! Having Joe Moe lend us Forry's original 1926 AMAZING STORIES and his SCI FI license plate was the icing on the cake.

Here's something most UMA members don't see--the set-up stage.  In the early moments of creating the displays--our wonderful Elizabeth Haney, who is an accomplished creator of museum displays, had just set things up on a trial basis in these photos, as we figured out what would go where.  Notice Forry's saucerman figure (which was a gift to him years ago from Michael Ruffalo of Billiken) standing with his rear end facing outward--we decided to turn him around before the display was finished!:
(http://www.geocities.com/marcusfayne/robotwfest.jpg)
(http://www.geocities.com/marcusfayne/dorianwfest.jpg)

Gary, very nice to see you pop by!

Thank you for your kind hospitality at WonderFest-- your room decorations were stunning!  And I sincerely enjoyed the opportunity to chat with you one-on-one a bit that weekend.


And Robert-- thank you again for letting me play with your toys!  I am so glad it was the Saucerman who was photographed from behind this year, not me. ;)

Quote from: BARON TIMOTHEUS BGG on May 25, 2009, 06:56:16 AM
Crazy 1van writ: "As always Baron, your thought processes would boggle the mind... had I one to boggle."
Scatter writ: "Trying to decide whether I'm in the presence of madness or genius. Or if there's even a difference."
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
... A very fine line, at best... but, who's counting?  ;) ME! I LUFF TO COUNT! VUN! TWO! THREE!

Genius it is!!

BROTHER SCATTER,

... "It takes one to know one!"

... This ARMY calls, forth, the MAD GENIUS, in, ALL, of us!

... Our Collective Presence, at WONDERFEST and other Conventions, serves, to, repeatedly, validate and intensify this Proof.

... I am, as are, so many, here, an OLD DARK CLUBHOUSE "Member", too!

... By my choice, to celebrate their Artistic Genius; to intertwine and engraft, my Mad Celebrations, into ITS Magical Atmosphere, and interact, most convivially, with some, of the most humble, beautiful, amazingly talented MONSTER KIDS, that I could ever hope, to meet, I, always, come, away, feeling much richer, as a Person, who is thrilled and enthralled, by CLASSIC MONSTERDOM!

... Acting my original FRANKENSTEIN and DRACULA Scenes, within the very Heart, of The ODCH, whilst it resided, at THE MONSTER BASH, I found deep fellowship; union, with so many great hearts:
DAVID and EILEEN COULTON, GARY PRANGE, JOE BUSAM, JIM and MARIAN CLATTERBAUGH, DON REESE... WOW! The list goes, on, and, on!

... I hope, that, in addition, to the Performance, which I am honoured, to share, in front, of the UMA Display, that, I might be doubly-honoured, to Gift the ODCH, with additional reprise, of my talents.
EXANIMO EVERNOW,
TIMMY & THE BARON & BARONESS & UMA, ODCH & CHFB FRIENDS, GOO-O-OODD-D!, B.G.G.

Some pictures and wonderful comments have been posted about the Universal Monster Army's displays at Wonderfest this year. As Memorial Day is a day for remembrance of those who have passed on, I wanted to focus on the two exhibits created for the UMA that celebrated two people very important to our members, Forrest J. Ackerman and artist Linda Miller.

Robert Taylor, Raymond Castile and Joe Moe created a touching and awesome tribute to Forry Ackerman and to Famous Monsters for the display. Robert has posted some pictures.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v640/barnabus/100_0751.jpg)


One of the many highlights of Wonderfest (for me) was talking to Bob Burns about the late Linda Miller. "Meek" had many friends here at the UMA and all over, and is still missed by many.

I helped just a bit with unloading and setting up the UMA display, but the contribution I'm proudest of was helping to produce an exhibit of Linda's monster art for the display. I had the idea and the photos. Raymond produced and shaped the exhibit, and then we arranged the art together, with MUCH (and much appreciated) assistance from Robert Taylor and my wife Jane. Raymond and I worked on the text.


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v640/barnabus/100_0759.jpg)


The images above are from Harry Woodbury, who is like Raymond Castile: a really nice guy who's also an excellent photographer! I think of him as the "film blanc" version of Coffin Ray.

One of the many highlights of Wonderfest (for me) was talking to Bob Burns about the late Linda Miller. "Meek" had many friends here at the UMA and all over, and is still missed by many.

An article on Linda will appear in the next issue of SCARLET magazine, which will debut at next month's Monster Bash.

I was talking to Bobby about the exhbit the other day, and we both simultaneously commented that the exhibit of Meek's work looked like a wall of B&W photos from a distance, and in most pictures.  Such an amazing talent.  I'm really glad that the tribute turned out so well.

I talked to a number of people as they passed by the Linda Miller display, and many were shocked that some of the drawings were NOT photos.  Our little friend had a formidable talent.  I'm glad the display came to be and that it was so extensive.  Linda's talent amazed people, and rightly so.

I know what you mean.  I know that they're NOT photos, but I couldn't get over how much they look like they are.  I don't know how she did it. 

Rob

I actually asked her before because they looked so much like B&W Photos, she told me you can find her initials or name in there somewhere. 

BK

Quote from: poseablemonster on May 26, 2009, 12:37:03 PM
I was talking to Bobby about the exhbit the other day, and we both simultaneously commented that the exhibit of Meek's work looked like a wall of B&W photos from a distance, and in most pictures.  Such an amazing talent.  I'm really glad that the tribute turned out so well.

Well, count me as one that thought they were photos.  I was wondering when there would be a shot of her display and there it was all the time.  Incredible!

Ok, you know, I was going to just let this go and move on, but the fact is I was a member of the UMA for YEARS before it changed its emphasis from just laid back monster Universal Monster fandom to a "cult of celebrities". THAT is the first reason the move from the the more public Yahoo group (whatever they say) to the private site (Old Dark Clubhouse "elders" site) was so distressful to me. I praised the UMA display for the first two years (because it deserved praise), and the FIRST year I have issues with it, I am branded as a heretic. I had VERY valid complaints against this year's ehxhibit, most notably the aburd entire setion devoted to Big Foot and the Loch Ness Monster (which everyone knows, whether they wish to acknowledge it or not, comes from a single individual's interest, and has  NOTHING to do with Universal Monsters), but also the very meagre sections devoted to Uncle Forry. I am NOT a member of this forum anymore, and no longer wish to be, but BE HONEST, and admit that this site has become a site to grovel at the feet of famous "monster kids", and NEVER adimit the Emperor has no clothes. The display this year was FAR inferior to the first two years, and I felt I needed to critique it. What I got was nasty, vicious comments that I DARE to question the hierarchey of the UMA. So be it. I was honest, and that is a HELL of a lot more than the rest of you are being.

Brother Damien

Brother D.  Your displeasure with this year's display has been duly noted.

There is no question that the Bigfoot/Nessie window was included at my request.  It was my idea, my toys, my window.  No doubt about it.

There are three points I want to make:

1.  I received more positive face-to-face comments about the Bigfoot/Nessie window than any other part of the display, including the two Forry windows.  It was not even close.  And it wasn't just "buddies," either.  Strangers were telling me how happy they were to see that window.  They remembered the toys and films from their childhood.  It was a real rush of nostalgia to see those things again for the first time in 30 years.  So based on my personal interactions with Wonderfest attendees, the Bigfoot/Nessie window was a crowd pleasing success.

2.  UMA is about more than the Universal Frank, Drac, etc.  That is the core, as it is in the display, but our interests are broader and more eclectic.  The Unimonsters are the touchstone, but they are also the springboard that launches us into a wider world of fantasy and horror.  That is reflected in our membership, our online discussions, and our toy display.  And you can only show people the same Auroras, AHIs and Marx toys so many times.  We always keep those classic Unimonster toys at the core of the display, but we add sci-fi and other non-Universal items to keep things varied and interesting.  Just like Uncle Forry did in Famous Monsters.

3.  We welcome, want and need member involvement in the UMA display.  And we get it.  Every year, several members donate their time, talent and treasures to make the display possible.  If you are passionate about it, the best thing to do is get involved.  Be with us at 2 a.m. when we are exhausted but still plugging away, trying to get this thing up in time for the crowds that are coming just a few hours later.  Donate some toys, or help us wrangle toys from other members.  We spent close to $2,000 to make this display happen this year.  We spend about that much every year.  Luckily, we were able to raise enough money this year to cover most of it.  But I will still be out at least $200-$300, even after reimbursement.  The first year, I think I poured about $1,500 of my own money into this project with no reimbursement.  Other members have done the same.  And brother, I am not wealthy.  Fact is, if I wanted a government handout, I would qualify for food stamps.  No joke.  So I can't just throw money around like it was nothing.  But I enjoy this project, the fellowship it brings, and the enjoyment it delivers to many hundreds of people.  But you can't please everyone.  If you try, you will end up pleasing no one.

I'm sure there are other people who did not enjoy the Bigfoot window and other parts of the display.  But please understand that many people DID enjoy it.  Do not dismiss them as groveling just because they liked something that you did not.  Based on the overall feedback and my own impressions, I really do believe that Wonderfest 09 was the best UMA display appearance ever.

Damien, I don't have a lot of money--and I realize that I don't have the very top memorabilia from Forry's collection--but I do treasure the things I have, and I had hoped that visitors to the Forry windows would find the things I brought interesting and a worthy tribute to a man I loved and admired very much.  You can't imagine how saddened I am by your comments.  

Quote from: typhooforme on June 01, 2009, 01:50:16 PM
Damien, I don't have a lot of money--and I realize that I don't have the very top memorabilia from Forry's collection--but I do treasure the things I have, and I had hoped that visitors to the Forry windows would find the things I brought interesting and a worthy tribute to a man I loved and admired very much.  You can't imagine how saddened I am by your comments.  

I think most people were very interested, impressed and touched by the Forry windows.  Forry's influence was present throughout the display, has been since day one, and will continue to be as long as the project continues.

Quote from: Brother D on June 01, 2009, 12:05:04 PM
... but BE HONEST, and admit that this site has become a site to grovel at the feet of famous "monster kids", and NEVER adimit the Emperor has no clothes. ...
Brother Damien

grov⋅el  /ˈgrʌvəl, ˈgrɒv-/  Show Spelled Pronunciation [gruhv-uhl, grov-]  Show IPA
–verb (used without object), -eled, -el⋅ing or (especially British) -elled, -el⋅ling. 1. to humble oneself or act in an abject manner, as in great fear or utter servility.
2. to lie or crawl with the face downward and the body prostrate, esp. in abject humility, fear, etc.
3. to take pleasure in mean or base things.

I refuse to grovel.   I'm still not sure what the issue is.  Even though I only see the display through photos, I think you guys do a great job.  Oh wait, am I groveling?  I think those that spend the most time, money and effort should have more of a say as to what is displayed.  I would also like to believe that if I make a suggestion, that it would be heard and considered, but doesn't necessarily have to be taken. 

With this new format, I've posted things and no one has commented.  I don't have a problem with it, I just hope someone has enjoyed or agreed with what I have posted.  I do think with a group this large, some things get overlooked.  It won't stop me from posting.

As for Famous Monster Kids, I'm not sure who is in that group, but I do feel humbled by the talent that is included in our membership, but that is only because I don't really have any artistic talent.  I still refuse to grovel.  We are all monster kids and that gives us a bond.  I appreciate all members and think everyone in this Army is important.  I've had people do kind things for me that I've never met. That is what makes us the best group out there.

What you felt as vicious comments were mainly just people protecting what they enjoy.  Some are better at expression than others.

The Emperor with no clothes, I never want to see the General like that...  ;)

BK

Brother D! I see by the number(20) you don't post very often?How dare you come on here and put down the exhibits and hard work that our members do at Wonderfest!
These people donate their time and like Raymond said some of their own money to go and represent the UMA the best way possiable.
Like Ray said if you have such a big problem with the way they do things then get off your arse and join in and help!
   If your not willing to do that then keep your opinions to yourself as I'm sure others here like myself have no desire to hear them!!!! >:(

Quote from: michblk on June 01, 2009, 04:56:12 PM
grov⋅el  /ˈgrʌvəl, ˈgrɒv-/  Show Spelled Pronunciation [gruhv-uhl, grov-]  Show IPA
–verb (used without object), -eled, -el⋅ing or (especially British) -elled, -el⋅ling. 1. to humble oneself or act in an abject manner, as in great fear or utter servility.
2. to lie or crawl with the face downward and the body prostrate, esp. in abject humility, fear, etc.
3. to take pleasure in mean or base things.

I refuse to grovel.   I'm still not sure what the issue is.  Even though I only see the display through photos, I think you guys do a great job.  Oh wait, am I groveling?  I think those that spend the most time, money and effort should have more of a say as to what is displayed.  I would also like to believe that if I make a suggestion, that it would be heard and considered, but doesn't necessarily have to be taken.  

With this new format, I've posted things and no one has commented.  I don't have a problem with it, I just hope someone has enjoyed or agreed with what I have posted.  I do think with a group this large, some things get overlooked.  It won't stop me from posting.

As for Famous Monster Kids, I'm not sure who is in that group, but I do feel humbled by the talent that is included in our membership, but that is only because I don't really have any artistic talent.  I still refuse to grovel.  We are all monster kids and that gives us a bond.  I appreciate all members and think everyone in this Army is important.  I've had people do kind things for me that I've never met. That is what makes us the best group out there.

What you felt as vicious comments were mainly just people protecting what they enjoy.  Some are better at expression than others.

Well said, Brian!

I too am bewildered.  The "cult of celebrities" thing--  I don't get it.  I've heard Brother D say it several times, but I still don't get it.  I hear and understand that Brother D feels this way, but in my experience here (which like Brother D's goes back to the Yahoo group days) I don't see it.

Likewise, with this being the worse exhibit ever... having seen several exhibits in person now (and photos of old ones), I can't say I agree with that either.

However, THAT is the thing about opinions... folks have a right to express them, but there is no guarantee that people are going to agree with them, or even understand them. 

But, what also bewilders me is... does disagreement have to lead to language that ramps up towards lighting torches and sharpening pitchforks?  That can happen SO quickly in the world of internet forums.  When folks on either side toss around angry phrases like "I dare to question" and "how dare you" it makes my breath catch a bit in pain.

Blue states and red states, Yankees and the Mets, Beatles and Stones,  Hammer versus Universal, tastes great or less filling... sadly, people seem to always find things to fight about. 

And sometimes, no matter how passionately we state our side, no matter how rational we think our arguments are, the simple truth is that folks cannot always see eye to eye.  It's a blessing and a curse.  It gives humanity wonderful creativity and diversity, but sometimes creates painful strife.

The thing is... we don't have to agree. 

What I have always loved about this site is folks seek first the common ground-- and that posts here tend to be kindly worded.  This is one place where I rarely flinch while reading posts.

Brother D has implied (twice now) that he is giving up participation in this forum.  If I take him as a man of his word (and there is no reason to not do that) I have to assume that future efforts to reach him through posts here are useless and futile, since he says he is no longer a member of this forum.  I wish him well.  I am sorry he is so unhappy.  I am genuinely sorry we did not have the chance to meet at Wonderfest this year.  Perhaps, talking face-to-face, with the added help of vocal inflection and body language, a conversation could have been different.  I am sorry should he feel anything I said was nasty or vicious.  I certainly only meant to convey my feelings and affection for this organization in the strongest way possible, because my affection for the organization is deep and very real.  Ultimately, I can accept we don't see eye-to-eye. 

What would pain me infinitely more than Brother D's criticism, though, is watching a critique of the annual event of primary importance to this group devolve into a verbal donnybrook... an edge we may be dancing on here.

I'd like to be able to come back to this thread and remember the happy memories I have of this year, the fun and excitement of working on the exhibit.

The hours of my life are precious to me.  I really do not want to spend them arguing about Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster toys.  Or Universal monster toys, for that matter.  And I'd rather not spend time reading arguments about them, as well.  These are ultimately just things.  Really cool neat things, and valuable things, but just stuff.  These things are not people, memories and affections-- the real stuff that life is made of.

I would rather spend as much time as I can with a joyful, playful spirit. 

Brother D can say this year's UMA exhibit stunk.  Other folks can say it did not.  We can turn our respective cheeks and chose to let it end there.

I'd rather expend energy counting the days until the next Wonderfest convention.   ;D

Quotebut BE HONEST, and admit that this site has become a site to grovel at the feet of famous "monster kids", and NEVER adimit the Emperor has no clothes

I need to jump in here and BE HONEST, though if Brother D mentioned he was no longer part of the forum he won't see this but I sure will benefit from writing it. It's my pleasure to write it.This is the story of my first encounter with a "famous monster kid". As a matter of fact he calls himself a "Famous Monster"..of Mpls. Ok being 55 (and a half) years old and I have loved monster stuff my whole life, and I was there there building and painting when the original Aurora kits were first released. I then grew away from that scene except I had picked up the Luminators and a few incidental monster related things over the years. One day I was surfing the web and did a search on "monsters" and discovered the CHFB or whatever it's called. I didn't stay there long, because I saw a link to a Yahoo group and a reference to "Famous Monster of Mpls". Within a day I had an email from a guy introducing himself and asking me where in the area I lived. As it it turned out we were only about 5-10 minutes apart! I mentioned I had a modest but sincere collection and he was so eager to see it - he made a point to get us hooked up, I remember his Jeep pulling up, my wife and I were in the front doing yardwork. As we introduced ourselves it instantly became as if we had known each other for years! I brought him down to see my ONE small table decorated with a few models, some skeleton stuff and a Kong puzzle. His humble enthusiasm was like an electric shock. For my old "monster fever" it was a true  "It's Aliiive!" moment. His obvious passion just for my dinky display was contagious. Then we decided it was plenty early yet and to go over to his house. He led me down to his Monster room ....words couldn't describe the fantasy that came true at that moment. Most of you have seen Terry's display at least in pictures...of course I've learned since then that MANY if not most of you have incredible collections, but this was my first look at the real deal. I couldn't believe my eyes. (I still can't). But here's the kicker - I at NO time EVER  got even the slightest bit of impression of egotism or self aggrandizing, no, instead I almost got the feeling he had made the entire display for me personally! But the stunning didn't end there, you see -  when I left I had my arms full of monster stuff! Model kits - Halloween bucket - monster ID card - and more! "Here you want this? Here take this.." What th'? I went home and basically doubled the size of my display! It was then I learned the biggest joy about being a monster kid - giving stuff away! My greatest happiness from being connected to this group has come whenever I have had the chance to give somebody a monster gift. And lo and behold guess what - it keeps coming back and I have also received gifts for no reason. It's not about the stuff though. At all.  I have come to realize that the lesson that General Terry (FM of Mpls) demonstrated that evening exemplifies the true spirit of realizing we are human beings first, monster kids second, which makes it that much more enjoyable. Grovel? GROVEL?? If Terry saw anyone groveling to him he'd probably throw up. He'll probably kick my ass for even writing something nice about him. But through this great group (who cares what shape the forum takes?) I have made TONS of close close friends, not any of which has a snake's hair of intimidation or elitist attitude.  I mean come on really we all know each other to different degrees and I dare say to whatever extent anyone cares to take it. I have never met anyone on this board that didn't want to swap phone numbers. Well I'm typed out...if I had any steam left I'd start naming more names, probably better I don't or I'd risk being implicated as a groveler. Now about five? six? years later -  my monster collection is taking over the entire basement I grovel and drool all the time here in my monster heaven! I might add with an open invitaion  to each and every one of you. And If you ever do make it to my city I guarantee we will go visit a "famous monster kid" who will make you feel like the celebrity!

It's all about sharing.  And that's probably the most important aspect of Forrest J Ackerman's legacy we can take with us.  We share enthusiasm, ideas, collections, work, time, effort and resources.  That's the best part of our little family, isnt it?

When I saw the bigfoot/nessie items I knew right then part of Raymond was in the window and that's what made the display meanigful.  And it was also pleasing to see something outside of the classic horror film orbit.  Dinosaurs and the popular beasts of cryptozoology were always on the periphery of and often intersected with the monster craze of the '50s, '60s and '70s.

There's always room for constructive criticism but it even better to get involved and share a little bit of yourself.

Quote from: Brother D on June 01, 2009, 12:05:04 PM
Ok, you know, I was going to just let this go and move on, but the fact is I was a member of the UMA for YEARS before it changed its emphasis from just laid back monster Universal Monster fandom to a "cult of celebrities". THAT is the first reason the move from the the more public Yahoo group (whatever they say) to the private site (Old Dark Clubhouse "elders" site) was so distressful to me. I praised the UMA display for the first two years (because it deserved praise), and the FIRST year I have issues with it, I am branded as a heretic. I had VERY valid complaints against this year's ehxhibit, most notably the aburd entire setion devoted to Big Foot and the Loch Ness Monster (which everyone knows, whether they wish to acknowledge it or not, comes from a single individual's interest, and has  NOTHING to do with Universal Monsters), but also the very meagre sections devoted to Uncle Forry. I am NOT a member of this forum anymore, and no longer wish to be, but BE HONEST, and admit that this site has become a site to grovel at the feet of famous "monster kids", and NEVER adimit the Emperor has no clothes. The display this year was FAR inferior to the first two years, and I felt I needed to critique it. What I got was nasty, vicious comments that I DARE to question the hierarchey of the UMA. So be it. I was honest, and that is a HELL of a lot more than the rest of you are being.

Brother Damien

Nobody has attempted to stifle you from sharing your opinion.  I don't happen to agree with a lot of what you said earlier, and practically none of what you are saying now, but that doesn't mean your opinion isn't valid for you.  The part that people mostly seem to object to is that you have stated a number of things which are simply untrue.  One thing you said earlier is that there was more space dedicated to Bigfoot/Nessie than to Forry.  That's simply untrue.  The Forry section was twice as big as the Nessie/Bigfoot.  If we had more Forry items, it would have been even larger.  Robert Taylor has a lovingly assembled collection of items that once belonged to Forry.  He was kind enough to drive them down to display at Wonderfest.  Joe Moe brought Forry's personal copy of FM#1 and his personal copy of Amazing Stories #26, the magazine that Forry bought as a young boy and began his lifelong passion for Sci-Fi and Monsters.  What it may have lacked in quantity, I think was more than made up for in quality.  If you believe the exhibit had more space dedicated to Bigfoot/Nessie than to Forry, you did not look at it well enough to realize what was there.  There were explanations of the significance of those Forry items posted adjacent to them.

You stated that the exhibit had fewer people interested than in years past.  That may have been the case when you were there, but over the course of the weekend, we had more people looking, taking pictures, and asking questions than ever before.  There is no question of that.

The UMA is not exclusively about Universal Monsters.  It's not even exclusively about classic horror.  The exhibit is not about assembling the rarest and finest Universal Monster toys, it's about showing a spectrum of different toys from different eras and interests that give monster fans a chance to say "Ooohhh, I remember that!" or "Wow, I never knew there were so many Alien toys" or whatever interests them.  The theme for the Wonderfest show this year was Alien, so there was an Alien window.  Among the various Alien toys was the Kenner prototype of a man in a space suit, made of resin that was never produced.  In the Alien exhibit next to the UMA, with items brought by Bob Burns and other Alien fans, was the screen used suit that the Kenner toy was modeled after.  We didn't know it was going to be there, it just worked out like that.  This may not have interested you in the least, but to the hundreds of Alien fans who were in attendance this year, it was incredibly cool.  

QuoteI was a member of the UMA for YEARS before it changed its emphasis from just laid back monster Universal Monster fandom to a "cult of celebrities". THAT is the first reason the move from the the more public Yahoo group (whatever they say) to the private site (Old Dark Clubhouse "elders" site) was so distressful to me.

This doesn't make sense.  The Yahoo site was not "more public", in fact the main reason we moved from Yahoo to this site was to make the UMA more visible than it was before and to make it accessible to more people.  A year and a half after the move, we have more members and 6x the activity.  We are indexed into search engines so people can find us more easily.  The reason for the move was to be more inclusive and more public, and we very much are.  No longer do people have to register just to read our forums.  And your continues reference to the Old Dark Clubhouse is confusing at best.  That has nothing to do with the UMA.  

As far as the "celebrity groveling" thing that you insist we "admit".  I'm sorry, but that doesn't even make sense.  Old Dark Clubhouse folks and "celebrity" monster kids are mostly at the Classic Horror Film Board.  Dan Roebuck is a celebrity of sorts, but is the most down to earth guy you'd ever want to talk to.  We're all just monster fans, Brother D.  It's not about celebrity worship or being "less public" or whatever you seem to think.  It's just not.

Your comments before did get us to talking about the need to have some member events at the next tour stop, so we can all socialize and hang out.  Thank you for that.

Quote from: Toy Ranch on June 01, 2009, 11:42:52 PMYour comments before did get us to talking about the need to have some member events at the next tour stop, so we can all socialize and hang out.  Thank you for that.

I hope there are muffins.

And gin.   It's only gin, you know. Only gin. I like gin...

Quote from: Elizabeth on June 01, 2009, 11:58:03 PM
I hope there are muffins.

And gin.   It's only gin, you know. Only gin. I like gin...

I'm guessing that's a combination that'll taste much better going down than it will coming back up ;)
George

Bobby, I don't see how it could be answered/explained better than the way you just did it.  Thank you so much.  And yes, Elizabeth--there are sure to be muffins.  And gin.  And I'm hoping for fried tomatoes. 

I want fried okra and homemade ice cream.

Quote from: Toy Ranch on June 01, 2009, 11:42:52 PM
Robert Taylor has a lovingly assembled collection of items that once belonged to Forry.  He was kind enough to drive them down to display at Wonderfest.  Joe Moe brought Forry's personal copy of FM#1 and his personal copy of Amazing Stories #26, the magazine that Forry bought as a young boy and began his lifelong passion for Sci-Fi and Monsters.  What it may have lacked in quantity, I think was more than made up for in quality.  

Your comments before did get us to talking about the need to have some member events at the next tour stop, so we can all socialize and hang out.  Thank you for that.

At Wonderfest in 2007, we (the UMA)  had an open reception with food for anyone wanting to come. We also had a special screening of monster-related short films. (Ah, the nostalgia of Castle Films.) At Monster Bash we had folks signing a guest book. We round up folks every year for a group picture. All of this is done with volunteered time and, often, money.

This year, thanks to some dedicated folks, we had a special display about one of our most talented and beloved members, Linda Miller.

A cliquish cult of personalities at the UMA display? No way. A friendly bunch of people who believe in being inclusive, and who believe in the friendships that a love of classic monsters can foster.

And don't forget potatoes.Have a potato,Robert ! You too,Elizabeth !

Oh, may I have a po-tay-to, too, please?

You can have a potato, but...

NO BEDS!

;)

I've never eaten a bed before !

I wanted to post my thoughts on this matter too and this is not about putting anybody down at all here in this group.I wanted to say this about the UMA and Toy display.When the UMA got started on the Yahoo group the toy display was never brought up until later on down the years that came.But the comments that Packy made does make since.Just to remind everyone who may not know this I was the one who got CreepyJeepy Jeff to join up with the UMA plus i was like the 4th or 5th person to join up in the UMA when it was on Yahoo.I been dealing with Jeff for a long time and i thought he be good for the group because he could get monsterstuff to sale to us all.I thought if we had someone who was dealing with monster toys and different things we would have a chance to be able to build up our collections as we seem fit to do.Also I also who was one of the people who got Terry Ingrim to come to the Bash to see what was going on.After he saw how nice everything was and the people friendly and how much fun he would have.Then that s when some of you had made the trip there too.I was not one of those members that help build or paint the toy display but i do have alot of respect for the display and one other thing to and that is if you look at the things that are happening in this world today we the monsterkids who are collectors have something that we can work with to keep our minds off of the troubles around the world.We should be able to enjoy our hobby we have and not be jealous of other people s hobby.One of the subjects that is hard to deal with and that is art.That s right Art that means some people think they are better then others when it comes to doing drawings paintings other stuff like that.To me I am not jealous of anybody s artwork i think everybody does a wonderful job if you got what it takes to be an artist.So i just wanted to add these comments so it gives you a better understanding about other collectors too.Being a monsterkid and collector is the best thing that makes me happy in life.

QuoteBut the comments that Packy made does make since.

Thanks Creeper - Owch! Rereading my too-long post with less tired eyes today I see I wasn't crystal clear in the main point I was babbling about.

What I was attempting to convey was that even as a novice monster collector I was treated with equality and respect by an accomplished monster collector. There are no real ranks here by definition. I still think we need Ootmahs it might make everyone feeeeeeel better. 

Sorry to you poor ducks that waded through that indulgent drivel I assure you I am coherent again and to reward myself about to go to Dairy Queen.

Quote from: The Drunken Severed Head on June 02, 2009, 11:36:43 AM
I want fried okra and homemade ice cream.

I had some fried okra the other day.  Pretty good.

Truly sad. Has the switch from Yahoo made these wonderful folks elitists, or did the switch rather make you bitter?? The tenor of your posts is the best evidence against your position.

Quote from: avenger on June 02, 2009, 04:14:07 PM
I've never eaten a bed before !

I once dreamed I ate a giant marshmallow. When I woke up, my pillow was gone!

Quote from: raycastile on June 02, 2009, 07:35:27 PM
I had some fried okra the other day.  Pretty good.

Raymond, my friend, if you come to Pittsburgh I'll make you the BEST fried okra! And anything else you want!

avenger writ: "I've never eaten a bed before !"
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Oh, I say! Good Form, AVENGER, Good Form!
... Here, are some, of the reasons, why, I agree, with you; common sense prevailing! ;)

"I've never eaten a bed before...
... Breakfast, unless, I'm, too tired, to get, out, of bed, to eat... because, if I do, then, I have, to get up, but, only, need a glass, of orange juice, as a chaser!"

"I've never eaten a bed before...
... Lunch, as it always makes me sleepy, in the mid-afternoon!

"I've never eaten a bed before...
... Dinner, as it spoils my appetite, and, I, usually, have, to skip dessert !

"I've never eaten a bed before...
... Bedtime, as it makes it difficult, to find a place, to sleep!

"I've never eaten a bed before...
... Purchasing it, at the Mattress Shoppe!

... Decidedly, frowned, upon, as a social faux passe, of the most ignorant sort!
... I committed this derelict behaviour, only, once... resultantly, the Shop-Keeper had the gall, to threaten me, with shop-lifting... so, I ate him, too! BUUURRRPPPP!

... Howe'er, 'tis, rather, difficult, to resist, the temptation; a good Mattress shoppe is, like, being, at a Smorgasbord! BEDS! YUMMMMMMMMM!

EXANIMO EVERNOW,
TIMMY & THE BARON & THE BARONESS & FRIENDS, GOO-O-OODD-D!, B.G.G.

I wasn't going to post again, but saw the posts like this one from Toysoldierman, and since I had been contacted by a longtime UMA member (who shall remain nameless, but who I have great respect for), I decided to respond one last time. First all, as far as posts like Toysoldierman's, you know what you can do with it (that is, exactly where you can put the post). I was a member on the UMA for YEARS. Once again, I am going to remind you that I praised the UMA display for the first TWO YEARS of it being displayed, and the first year I have problems with it, I am branded as some sort of traitor. I gave my honest opinion of the display, and stand by it. I also stand by the assertion that the UMA has become a FAR less laid back and "common man's" forum as opposed to an elitist group who cowtows to a certain few. That's why I left. I in fact DID offer my services for the UMA display for the first couple of years, and it was made plain to me that they weren't really required. When I was a regular UMA poster, I posted regularly and often, LONG before most of the current members were regulars posters. I DO apologize to the members such as the one who contacted me, and others who are well-intentioned, if I came across as being too critical, but I honestly felt that input needed to be put forth. Otherwise, exactly HOW does change occur? I am sorry, but as I have said before, when I see that The Emperor has no clothes, I stand up and proclaim it loudly. If there can be no dissenting opinion, then exactly HOW is this group  NOT elitist? Always have, and always will be, one who marches to his own drum. Uncle Forry lives! Peace and Blessings.


Brother D

D, you are quick to accuse us of condemning you for expressing your opinion, but aren't you doing the exact same thing?  Perhaps you are not familiar with common courtesies and believe that being blunt and ruse is the best way to get others to listen to you.  If that is so, I pity your childhood, but still hold you accountable for your own behaviour.

If you thought the display this year was not up to par, that would be a valid opinion that could be conveyed without open slurs.  I *AM* relatively new to the UMA, and I have only made it to one Con since joining, and I cannot in all honesty claim that I have contributed anything more than written posts and the occasional uploaded photo.  But I have made friends around here, and I truly believe that if I had a complaint, even if it was a highly subjective complaint, that I could let the folks here know about it without purposely trying to enrage anyone, or belittle their hard work.  

I cannot comment on how legitimate your view was regarding this year's display, but let's assume they are completely accurate; that Uncle Forry was not properly memorialized and that the materials displayed were not keeping to the traditions of Universal Monsters.  How does that translate into an elitist group of fan wanks than grovel at the feet of the Inner Circle?  You seem to disregard the amount of hard work and money and time put into everything, as though this was a television show that didn't live up to expectations in the 3rd season.  It isn't.  It is a labor of love, and had you made CONSTRUCTIVE comments then you would not have drawn so much ire upon yourself.  As someone who is clearly NOT one of the 'elite', I know I can still get them to listen to me in dissention by communicating without attacking.  That's not ass-kissing, it's just etiquette.  

For example, I was one of the many who resisted the switch from Yahoo groups to the open forum format.  There were a lot of us, as you should well recall, who wanted to stay at Yahoo.  Okay, we lost.  But that doesn't mean we were ignored.  The arguments were made and weighed, and the poeple doing all the work ultimately did what they thought would be best for the community they had created.  Did they make the right decision?  Who can say?  But they did make an INFORMED decision because people spoke up declaring pros and cons, and I can hardly resent them for doing what they felt was best.  After all, I was free to create my own forum with my own resources and pimp it out as an affiliate, alternative, or even arch-rival to the UMA forum site, and if I really thought they'd blown it I would have.

Something like, "Hey guys, I saw the display this year; first time in quite a while.  Some of you may remember me from the Yahoo days.  I remember how impressed I was with the display the first couple times I saw it, but this year it seemed to stray a bit much from the source material.  Any chance we'll see a return of the focus to one of the Universal classics next year?  Looking forward to it, Brother D." wouldn't have been too hard for someone with your obvious talents for writing.  Instead, you chose a confrontational stance that only a great fool wouldn't have predicted the negative responses garnered.  And since you are clearly not a great fool, I cannot choose the wine in front of you.

Change is good, and criticism can lead to needed change.  But do consider applying some of the critical comments made against you to the attitude you bring to the table, assuming you are going to continue posting here.  Every time you comment, you seem hung up on how you are a FORMER member, and that you are only posting AGAIN out of necessity.  Unless this necessity was to get a rise out of people, I believe your opinion has been voiced, and if you genuinely would like to see a shift in UMA Display focus, you may want to start making posts that will help achieve this, rather than keeping a swollen bruise enflamed for as long as you can.

I consider you very lucky to have been on the ground floor of the blossoming UMA, and I envy your presence at this year's WonderFest.  If these are things you see as positives, rather than negatives, please don't flaunt them around at people as though they should feel ashamed or afraid of, and use your position to suggest improvements without taking pot shots and indicating exactly what you think everyone else can do with their opinions that don't comply with your own (that is, telling them where to put their comments, like THAT was real mature).

And as always, we thank you for your support.

I found the "shove it" comment particularly charming. It's a mystery to me why folks don't simply succumb to your endearing manner. Now, if you'll all excuse me, I'm going to suggest to Jordan that he could do a better job cleaning his room by beating him with a 2x4.