BGR: What got you interested in Battlestar Galactica in the first place?

RJ: I had always been interested in science and outer space since I was 8. TV sci-fi wasn't around much then, but we had a few shows like Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers. Then there came Star Trek, then of course Star Wars which piqued my sci-fi interest. Then that fateful night in '78 I watched "Ben Cartwright" in a space movie. My wife watched for "That guy from Streets of San Fransico." (Not Carl Malden heh heh) When I saw the Cylons...I was hooked. The premise and storylines had me "glued" every airing since!

BGR: In your opinion, why do you think people love the show so much?

RJ:Probably the Mythology, believable characters and of course the tin-heads.

BGR: What is it about Battlestar Galactica that draws you to it, personally?

RJ: The believable characters. Believable mythology/theology from a different galaxy, close to our own, yet different. I found the "suggestions" of Earth's own past to be the binding factor.

BGR: Do you have a favorite episode?...and why?

RJ: I have two actually. "The Living Legend" and "The Man With Nine Lives". "The Living Legend" because of the "fight back" attitude of Commander Cain. It made us think that there could be a victory once and for all against superior numbered forces. Also it introduced new characters such as Sheba and Bojay. That episode also showed us the different Cylons, from Drones up to the Imperious leader. Yes, the Cylons were indeed a machine race! "The Man With Nine Lives" gave spice to Starbuck's character. A father who loved him so much that he wouldn't tell him he was his father. Besides, I'm a Fred Astair fan anyway. It was a very enjoyable episode.

BGR: Again with favorites!...do you have a favorite character?...and again why?

RJ: No one particular character stands out above the rest with me. Each character was unique and interesting. If I had to choose, I guess it would have to be Apollo because of his loyalty and leadership, much like his father.

BGR: Tell us about Battlestar Callisto and Gold Squadron.

RJ: Gold squadron and the Battlestar Callisto was put together a few years ago by a group of us on the Battlestar Galactica Bulletin Board. At first we merely chatted about BSG, but after a while we decided to DO something about helping the revival. We contacted the International Battlestar Galactica fan club, got some basic info and proceeded to form an on-line squadron. (The first one ever..I might add!) We had the blessings of the fan club and went from there. Although the Fan club became stagnant, we went ahead and declared ourselves a Battlestar. We chose the Name Callisto, after a Jupiter moon. The club has grown since we put a web site up for it. We are very proud of the members enthusiasm and support. Black Squadron was formed early on as well as a way to keep the books straight on who is and isn't an official Battlestar Galactica club member. (As required in the club by-laws, only members count as a squadron). Core command of the Battlestar Callisto dissolved that ruling later on. Now we are one big happy family...most of the time! The biggest thrill was when Anne Lockhart accepted Commander status aboard the Battlestar Callisto! Our mission is simple...spread the word about the revival efforts, and have FUN doing it. We have all made good and close friends aboard our bird. All are welcome to join.

BGR: The Revival has hit fever pitch...what do you think has moved people so much?

RJ: Without a doubt it has to be Richard Hatch's passion and hard work. Everyone he touches wants to get involved. The Battlestar Galactica community was just waiting for the opportunity to make noise! We did, and we will continue to make noise till we get what we want.

BGR: Did you ever think the revival would build up this kind of steam?

RJ: I had no doubt whatsoever. That great epic deserves, and will get a "real" chance.

BGR: Another question on that front...did you ever think you would be so involved?

RJ: Actually I was looking to get involved long before I found the Battlestar Galactica forum! Before I was even on-line I was looking for a Battlestar Galactica fan base, but met with no success. When I got on-line that's when the Battlestar Galactica world made itself known to me. I got goosebumps when I found Battlestar Galactca sites! Finding the Battlestar forum was the will of the Lords of Kobol I think. I can't take full credit for the Battlestar Callisto club, but I think I got peoples juices flowing a bit. The rest is history.

BGR: With the differing proposal's floating around...What do you see as the prospects of either?

RJ: IMHO, Glen Larson's intentions are history. No need to ask...

BGR: Well then, what are your thoughts regarding Richard Hatch's version?

RJ: Richard seems to have a much better grip on what the fans really want to see. He listens to us and treats us like we're old friends. He built the character of Apollo. Who would be better at it than him?

BGR: What do you see for the future of Battlestar Galactica?

RJ: Battlestar Galactica could de-throne Star Wars if handled right. (IMHO!) With all the new special FX techniques and new story writers...all I can say is WOW. The franchise would net a pretty nickle for those involved. The story line could be continuous, much like Babylon 5. New ships, new characters and a more deadly race of Cylons would make it a long running show. Movies would be a spectacle to behold. There is no question, the future of Battlestar Galactica looks very bright to me!