What is the U.S.S. Chesapeake, of which I so often speak? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

Q: What is the U.S.S. Chesapeake?

A: We’re a non-aligned (not part of a larger fan organization) Star Trek and science-fiction club in the greater Washington, D.C., area. We especially appreciate good writing, so we’ll often talk about not only what worked in a story, but also what didn’t. We like to analyze and study what makes good sci-fi television. We also read novels, most often those based on the shows we enjoy, although we do read and watch other quality entertainment. The club has been around since February, 1991.  We love to laugh, and often do. 🙂

Q: What does the club do?

A: We meet once a month, usually on the third Saturday night. We gather at the Hard Time Cafe in College Park, Maryland, or at club members’ homes in the Washington, D.C., area – DC, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland, and Arlington County in Virginia. We get together socially besides that, but everything is on a volunteer basis, so there is no pressure to participate if someone has other plans.

We also attend conventions together, staying overnight at the hotel where the con is held. Depending on the con, we can often be found hosting discussion panels, providing as many as 20 hours of programming over the weekend.

Q: What shows do you watch?

A: Most club members view a variety of shows, from the latest Star Trek to other science fiction, fantasy, and adventure shows. Currently, members are talking about Eureka, Warehouse 13, Supernatural and Sanctuary. Many of the club members also enjoy non-SF shows including Burn Notice, CSI, CSI: Miami and CSI: New York.

Q: What happens during club meetings?

A: After dinner, we discuss club business, member activities, Star Trek/other science-fiction news, upcoming conventions and anything else that interests us.

Of course, you can check out the club’s website where PDF files of our monthly publication the COMSTAR can be downloaded. A test blog for the periodical can be seen here.