Maryland Trip, Dr. Gregory Hampton

Just came back from Maryland where my crew and I interviewed Dr. Gregory Hampton, the professor from Howard University who put together the first event that I videotaped for the documentary in 2003. A New Frontier: Blacks in Science Fiction brought in Octavia Butler, Steven Barnes, Tananarive Due and Nalo Hopkinson. There were also a number of papers read from different academics during the two-day event where the focus was on Blacks, Literature and Science/Speculative Fiction. Dr. Hampton is currently publishing two works, one on Octavia Butler and the other a review of his 2003 conference. Good Interview, nice long drive.

Philadephia Trip, L. A. Banks

Philly seems to be the spot for me and this project. We interviewed L. A. Banks today and I have to say that this woman is not only a prolific writer but a really good person. Her story is amazing, her writing the result of desire, necessity and creativity. She has not only written a number of romance novels but is as of this writing up to her 6th vampire huntress novel with 3 more in the works. Her fan base is dedicated and amazing too. I've had the opportunity to be present at several events where she has spoke on panels and the room is always filled with laughter. Check this woman's work out and don't be surprised if you see the vampire huntress in the theatres in the future!

L. A. Banks