It’s short but sweet, folks:

First and foremost, to Keith R.A. DeCandido. We’ve been through a lot together, from being “loquacious” in English class in high school, to the Wednesday Night of Cheesy Movies, to The Chronic Rift, to this. Thanks for always thinking of me and for giving me this opportunity. It’s been fun.

Next comes Susan Drew, my better half and my editor. Like Jean-Luc Picard, I spell knife with an “n,” and this piece looks as good as it does thanks to this woman.

To my son, Edward Declan, I say thanks for letting Daddy use the computer for a while. You can get back to playing with Elmo and Clay.

To my family, Mom, Dad, Denis, Anna, and Bridget—I know you don’t always understand me, but I hope you enjoy reading this.

To my friends, the Geek Patrol, of which Keith (Edit Boy) is a founding member: Orenthal Vance Hawkins (Hawkman), Marina Frants (Tall Cool One) and Andrea Kristin Lipinski (Lipchick), thanks for being understanding when I missed out on Wednesday nights.

To those who inspired me: Gene Roddenberry, David Gerrold, Robert Heinlein, Kenneth Johnson, Ben Bova, and Alan Dean Foster. It’s your fault I enjoy writing as much as I do.