In later life , Pelz was best known for his activities in organizing science fiction conventions , sometimes referred to as SMOFFing . He was heavily involved with nearly every convention held in Los Angeles from the mid-60s until his death . Pelz was instrumental in convincing the LASFS to start holding an annual convention , Loscon , and he chaired Loscon X ( 1983 ) . He co-chaired the 30th World Science Fiction Convention in 1972 , with Chuck Crayne . He co-chaired the 1969 Westercon , and served as chair of the 1976 and the 2002 Westercon ( his wife Elayne Pelz , also an experienced conrunner , assumed leadership upon his death and the con was held successfully ) . He was Fan Guest of Honor of the 38th World Science Fiction Convention in Boston in 1980 . Pelz also lent his time and expertise to conventions held in other cities , even outside of North America . His leadership was instrumental in rescuing the ill-fated 1966 Westercon , Westercon XIX , in San Diego . For many years he drove a car with the license plate " SMOF 2 "
30th World Science Fiction Convention
30th World Science Fiction Convention
Bruce Pelz