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Just who is this Joe Haldeman guy, and why does he deserve to be the Writer Guest of Honor at DemiCon II? Is it because he's written a large number of novels, novellas, novellettes, short stories, short storyettes, and some pretty impressive captions? No. To be sure, his stories are imaginative, interesting, well written, and original; unlike some writers who seem to write the same story over and over, Joe keeps coming up with new ideas.
Is it because the aforementioned stories have earned Joe accolades from writers and readers alike? No. Joe has won two Hugos, a Nebula, a Ditmar, and a best legs contest at Ormand Beach. His latest novella, The Hemingway Hoax, has garnered Joe another Nebula nomination, and should bring in a Hugo nomination as well (this being a subtle hint to those with Hugo nomination ballots). This story is to be confused with a recent novel named The Hemingway Hoax which was also written by a Joe Haldeman. Coincidence… or not? Only Joe's agent knows for sure.
Is it because he has been a WorldCon Guest of Honor? No. Although Joe was a fine guest at the 48th WorldCon in the Hague. Ask him sometime about howw you can use the Science Fiction Chronicle and the obituary page to get your first story published.
Is it because he's a fine filk singer and writer? Probably not, though you'll get your money's worth at any filk-sing when Joe is in attendance (free is free, after all).
Is Joe Haldeman our Guest of Honor because he has this penchant for suggestive acronyms. Well, not really… although moving to a state beginning with an 'I', just so he could start a club named SFLIS ("Science Fiction League of Iowa Students," but pronounced like the disease) is a sign of true dedication to one's art. This did, however, cause another SF group to ask him not to submit a name suggestion for their club. (No, the group was not DMSFS.)
Is it because Joe is married to our Fan Guest of Honor, Gay Haldeman? That answer shows some real promise.
Is it because Joe is a wonderful story teller — one who can talk to a group of five or five hundred, and keep them spellbound for hours? No. I have listened to readings by many writers, and never have I found anyone who can hold an audience like Joe. His reading after the DemiCon opening ceremonies should be standing room only, so come early.
The real reason that we invited Joe Haldeman to be the DemiCon II Writer Guest of Honor is that Joe is all of these things, and a lot more besides. Sit down with Joe, offer him a glass of Scotch or a bottle of Heinekin. Then you too will be able to answer the question, "Just who is this Joe Haldeman guy, anyway?"
"Joe has won 2 Hugos, a Nebula, a Ditmar, and a best legs contest at Ormand Beach."
This page created by: Kevin G. Austin