Hi! An open forum with Mr. B. will be held on Oct. 4, 7:30 p.m. at The Long Beach (CA) Performing Arts Center on Ocean Blvd. It is sponsored by the Long Beach Public Library Foundation.

Tickets are $40 - or $100 for premiere seating and a pre-event reception with Mr. B.

Please call 1-800-505-5990 for information and tickets.

I bought tickets for myself and my 13 year old son, and here's my vow: this time we will not be conquered by our shyness. We're going to shake Mr. Bradbury's hand, get his autograph, and say "Thank you" for all the wonderful synapse activity he has inspired.

I've gone public; now I'm committed! DZ

Do it!

I met him at a book signing once. In fact, I was there early and was milling around. He came up from behind and asked if I was here to get my book signed (I was carrying it around). I said yes, and it was Ray. He literally changed my life with his writing. I wanted to say something to tell him how much he influenced who I became in my life through reading his books and stories and I just couldn't do it. I stammered out some lame thank you for signing the book so I wouldn't have to wait in line.

He deserves more effusive fans!

Lay it on him.

I'm a little confused by this Oct. 4 appearance by Mr. Bradbury in Long Beach.

If you check the 9/02 message, "Ray At San Diego Comic-Con Aug. 03", there is mention of another Oct. 4 appearance in Duarte, Ca. Which one is correct?