Pokemon Chat Report - Thursday, April 19, 2001
by Team Compendium (with special thanks to Magmar2000 & Echidna)

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darkmaster_steve says, "Meowth!!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Hi gang! Welcome to another exciting episode on As the Weedle turns!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Happy Happy Jy Joy!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Hi everybody!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Instead of actually answering anything today, I thought I would just spend the next 2 hours singing to you, hows that?"
master_trainer_mike says, "Everyone cool with that????"
master_trainer_mike says, "Ok, instead how about I start with the long list of announcements??"
master_trainer_mike says, "Ok, announcement time."
master_trainer_pat says, "Hey Mike, do you have any announcements?"
master_trainer_mike says, "Some announcements, first some DCI info for you. Since the QT's and the STS main tournaments are all DCI sanctioned, if you participate in one of the 2 day QT's and you win on the first day, you CANNOT participate in the same tournament on the second day. This will also be true at the STS. If you happen to win on of the 3 age group main tournaments on Saturday, you will NOT be able to participate in the same tournament on Sunday."
master_trainer_pat says, "Whoa!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Of course, you would be welcome to take part in the leagues or other activities, just not the main tournament again."
master_trainer_mike says, "Also since these are DCI sanctioned events you WILL have to have a DCI number. If you don't already have one, you can get one (for free of course) when you register for these events."
master_trainer_mike says, "The Season 4 promo for the league will NOT be Scizor as some of you may already know. It will be Igglybuff (promo #36). Due to some shipping errors, the Igglybuff point grid stickers were sent out to the leagues along with the Scizors. We will be sending out the Igglybuff cards to use with the point grids stickers for Season 4. All Leagues will be told to hold onto the Scizors for Season 5 instead."
master_trainer_mike says, "If a league gives away its Scizors before Season 5, it will NOT be given any more copies of that card so pass along that they want to hold onto them or they will be without any promo cards until Season 6."
master_trainer_mike says, "Don't forget you can also do an activity and earn a very cool Reverse-Holo Pichu in Season 4 as well. Supplies are limited so get to your league now!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Really!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Booyah!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Here is a ruling correction:"
master_trainer_mike says, "Q. What happens when you attach a Rainbow Energy to Blaine's Ninetales when it has 10 HP left? Does it get knocked out or not?"
master_trainer_mike says, "A. It would get Knocked out. Rainbow energy only counts as all types when it is already in play. You do the 10 damage from Rainbow when you attach it which takes place before it is in play and before the Healing Fire Power would trigger."
master_trainer_pat says, "Hey What about the format for this year's STS?"
master_trainer_mike says, "Ok, taht's it, thanks for coming! See you next week!"
master_trainer_mike says, "BYE!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Hey, Hey Hey"
master_trainer_mike says, "hee hee hee"
master_trainer_mike says, "Now for a song!"
master_trainer_pat says, "We want the format!"
master_trainer_mike says, "I GOTTA BE ME!!!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "I GOTTA BE ME!!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "oh yeah, the format........."
master_trainer_pat says, "D'oh!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Should we tell them the format Pat?"
darkmt_mike says, "Your Evil!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Hmmmm."
master_trainer_mike says, "Hey that rhymed!"
master_trainer_pat nods solemnly.
darkmt_mike nods solemnly.
master_trainer_mike says, "I'm a poet and didn't know it!"
master_trainer_mike says, "heh heh heh"
master_trainer_pat says, "Yeah, let's go!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Ok"
darkmt_mike says, "Tell them!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Now what you have been waiting for, the ESTS format announcement!"
master_trainer_mike says, "DMTM says its XYZ!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "BUT he's wrongo!!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "In order to provide a more robust play environment, we have, as in the past, created a deck design format for the East Coast Super Trainer Showdown. That format will be as follows:"
master_trainer_mike says, "Only Pokemon TCG cards from the following sets may be used: Team Rocket, Gym Heroes, Gym Challenge and Neo Genesis. Cards from any sets previous to these sets or from the Neo Discovery set are not permitted for deck construction."
master_trainer_mike says, "All Pokemon TCG promo cards may be used, with the exception of promo cards that have identical versions in Pokemon TCG card sets that are have been restricted from use. This includes all Pre-Release and foil stamped versions of these cards. (Pre-Release Clefable, Pre-Release Aerodactyl, etc.)"
master_trainer_mike says, "Sneazel, a Pokemon from the Neo Genesis expansion cannot be played in this event."
master_trainer_pat says, "Sneazel-free STS!"
master_trainer_mike says, "We have removed the older sets from this environment in order to generate new deck styles and deck ideas for play. A large enough base of cards has been included to allow players to build decks without limiting the types of viable Pokemon, or removing the key cards necessary to play decks with multiple Pokemon types."
master_trainer_mike says, "The decision to remove Sneazel from this environment does not indicate that we consider the card a problem for normal constructed play. We did feel that, in this environment, Sneazel presented too strong a Pokemon choice to be ignored by skilled trainers and that he would be included in most decks. We felt this would not allow decks ideas to be fully realized, since Sneazel would be chosen as the optimal Active Pokemon. It is our belief that with the release of later sets, that Sneazel will not populate decks so fully as to curb good deck construction concepts."
darkmt_mike grins evilly.
master_trainer_mike says, " good thing I can type quickly :)"
master_trainer_mike says, "So, any questions??????"
master_trainer_pat smirks.

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #5 from chrisbo:If Ditto previously used Venomoth�s Shift power, and Venomoth retreats for another Pokemon, does Ditto remain as the shifted type, or does the Transform power override to change Ditto into the new defending Pokemon�s type?
master_trainer_mike says, "Sorry Chrisbo, this one still doesn�t have an answer, we have a rules meeting in 2 weeks and will cover it (and argue about it) then."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #6 from chrisbo:Say a pokemon with Focus Band gets hit with an attack that poisons and also does enough damage to knock it out. Even if the flip for Focus Band leaves it with 10hp remaining, wouldn�t the poison take it out immediately after that?
master_trainer_pat says, "Correct."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #7 from pkmn43:Will Weedle Be the Offical pokemon For the sts?
master_trainer_mike says, "If I have MY WAY!!!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Now that that darn dark cat Pokemon is gone!!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #8 from chrisbo:If you qualify for three byes at the STS, can you choose to use only some of them or do you have to use all three? If "some", then do you have to state up front how many you�re going to use or can you decide at any time during the first three rounds?
master_trainer_pat says, "You can choose to use them or not. You cannot split them up."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #9 from pkmn43:When Does Neo2 , CrossTrainer , And Neo 3 come out?
master_trainer_mike says, "Later on dude!"
master_trainer_pat says, "We can�t be more specific yet."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #11 from samantha_129:DMTM said in WizPOG that the format was to be announced today. So...?
master_trainer_pat says, "Did ya catch it!"
darkmt_mike says, "It has!"
master_trainer_pat says, "We'll announce it later on if you missed it."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #12 from warlockmaster:Can we confirm what Shawn has said, that your opponents' w/l percentage will be used instead of resistance at the STS as a tiebreaker, and this will have no drawback for those who accept byes? If so this is great, because it eliminates the worry associated with taking byes under a resistance tiebreaker :-)
master_trainer_mike says, "Correct, opponent's win/loss will be used for tiebreakers if necessary."
master_trainer_mike says, "BTW, anything that Shawn says on the Pokegym IS OFFICIAL!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Though he has been known to be wrong from time to time... :)"
master_trainer_pat says, "From time to time..."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #13 from mew190:what should I do now?
master_trainer_pat says, "Have fun!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #14 from metal_entei:for Entei, do we flip for Bolt if the was killed my posion between turns
master_trainer_pat says, "No, only an attack on Entei will trigger Bolt."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #15 from magmar2000:I'm heading to the M's game later, so I better ask now. Where do you guys think you will be at SouthCenter this weekend?
darkmt_mike says, "League Zone!"
master_trainer_mike says, "There will be signs for it, we will be in the League area."
master_trainer_pat says, "Of course!, who are the M's playing?"
master_trainer_mike says, "baseball again...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz"
master_trainer_pat says, "Ichiro rules!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #16 from metal_entei:some people are alrelady selling Promo #33 and the badge for Season4 and it still haven't started yet, shouldn't WOTC do something about it
master_trainer_mike says, "They will be hunted down like dogs....."
master_trainer_pat says, "We'll pinch them in the noggin'"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #18 from metal_entei:what should I do if I can't get to the QT or the STS
master_trainer_mike says, "Play in the League!!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #19 from trovtwo:So what's this week's phrase?
master_trainer_mike says, "Sanitized for your protection."
master_trainer_pat says, "Hmmm..."
master_trainer_mike says, "THere ya go!"
master_trainer_pat says, "wonderful!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #20 from metal_entei:will Reverese holo. Charizard come with 3rd movie DVD/Video Type
master_trainer_pat says, "Dunno"
master_trainer_mike says, "No idea!"
master_trainer_mike says, "But if it DOES IT will be"
master_trainer_mike says, "Sanitized for your protection :)"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #21 from trovtwo:Was Igglybuff supposed to be the Season 4 promo?
master_trainer_pat says, "That's right."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #22 from trovtwo:What is a format?
master_trainer_mike says, "type this onto your computer and see what happens!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "format....ummmm......."
master_trainer_mike says, "nevermind"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #24 from trovtwo:Do yu guys put alot of thought into things?
master_trainer_mike says, "not the pohrases...."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #25 from mewboy12345:How have you been?
master_trainer_mike says, "DUCKY!!!"
master_trainer_pat says, "peachy"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #26 from bloodix:How come the Plains Badge and the Whitney's Challange Sticker hasn't came to any stores yet?
master_trainer_mike says, "They have, if the store hasn't received them, they didn't pay for them........."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #28 from trovtwo:When dose As the Weedle turns come on?
master_trainer_mike says, "Every thursday 3-5 PST!!!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #29 from hi_jynx:Does Smeargle's Paint attack override Venomoth's PP: Shift?

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #30 from trovtwo:Sing Mike,your way better than a spear or a sink
master_trainer_mike says, "That's what I was saying....."
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes, Shift overrides the Paint and vice versa"
master_trainer_mike says, "warning slow typing at work..."
master_trainer_mike says, "hee he hee"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #31 from zapdos24:I thought you can't ban cards.....
master_trainer_mike says, "Not overall, but for an STS?? Sure!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #32 from warlockmaster:"Sneazel"? What's "Sneazel"?
master_trainer_mike says, "Geshundeit!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "hee hee hee"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #33 from samantha_129:What's the quote/word of the week?
master_trainer_pat says, "sanitized for your protection"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #35 from indigomaster33:Please don't threaten to sing, we went through that once
master_trainer_mike says, ""

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #36 from mewboy12345:What baby pokemon should I use in a deck?
master_trainer_mike says, "Weedy!!!"
master_trainer_pat says, "You mean outside of Cleffa"
master_trainer_mike says, "You can see him on the fan created cards we have posted on our website!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Pichu."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #38 from trovtwo:So will there be prizes at the STS?What are they?
master_trainer_mike says, "No specifics but there will be prizes!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #40 from hi_jynx:Erika's Weepinbell LV. 26 Flytrap attack: If I choose a baby pok�mon from the bench, do I still have to do the baby flip?
master_trainer_pat says, "You wouldn't have to flip for attacking the baby"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #41 from trovtwo:Aha so thats why there were Igglybuff stickers!Thank you Mike.
master_trainer_mike says, "Welcome!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #42 from mew190:ok stop you are going to fast
master_trainer_mike says, "STOP THE WORLD I WANT TO GET OFF!!!!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #43 from chrisbo:If I have an old DCI number that got registered during Pokemon League Year 1, but haven't used it since then, is it still a valid number to use for the STS?
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #44 from trovtwo:Do you have to bring the ad card to get the Pichu crossword activity?
master_trainer_mike says, "Nope!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #45 from bloodix:Are the Happy Birthday Pikachus still in becauce I sent that create a card in about 2 mounths and havent gotten it?
master_trainer_pat says, "We're still sending them out."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #46 from feralshade:regarding the discovery contest, how many times can one enter: once or once per week?
master_trainer_mike says, "Dunno, try as oftem as you want!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #47 from phoenixaudubon:Was the whole 15+ not being allowed at STS a publicity stunt?
master_trainer_mike says, "no!!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #49 from trovtwo:Will there be more cards to earn in future league seasons other than the sticker points?
master_trainer_mike says, "Each season will have at least the one card to eran, some seasons more than one."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #51 from pkmn43:can sneaSel be played or can neither sneaZel and sneaSel be played?
master_trainer_pat says, "Sneasel and Sneazel can't be played at the STS"
master_trainer_mike says, "NO SNEASELS with an S! or with a Z! Or with 3 silent Q's in the middle!!"
master_trainer_pat says, "How ever you spell it, you can't play it"
darkmt_mike smiles.

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #54 from lugia_401:hello just got here whats the weeks phrise
master_trainer_mike says, "Sanitized for your protection!"
master_trainer_mike says, "So it ouwld be!"
master_trainer_mike says, "MINTY FRESH!"
master_trainer_mike says, "BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA"
darkmt_mike says, "Cheese fries?"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #55 from feralshade:is the non-base-jungle-fossil format restricted to the entire event?
master_trainer_pat says, "No, just the main DCI tournaments"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #56 from mewboy12345:Whats your reaction on the annoucement from WB about the fourth movie?
master_trainer_mike says, "sorry but we haven't heard anything"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #57 from samantha_129:As far as the format, I'm sensing some Misty's Wrath for card drawing......
master_trainer_mike says, "Elms I think and Cleffas and don't forget the ever useful Mary cards!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "ok, maybe not Mary........"
master_trainer_pat says, "There's plenty in the format. Don't forget Master Ball either..."
master_trainer_mike says, "The All Blaine's Quizzes format!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "BOOYAH!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #59 from lugia_401:I heard the lower your DCi rank is the more wins you start off with. Is that true?
master_trainer_mike says, "no, you have to have a higer DCI rating to earn any byes"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #60 from soslowpoke:what # promo is Igglybuff?
master_trainer_pat says, "36"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #62 from phoenixaudubon:Is there an exact date for the WCSTS yet?
master_trainer_pat says, "No there isn't"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #63 from mewboy12345:What happened to the Murkrow promo?
master_trainer_pat says, "What Murkrow promo"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #65 from y2ace:If a no removal gym is in play and the I have a slowking and they play a ser do they have to discard the cards from their hand first and the energy as the gym effects the card before it is played then it is effect by mind games
master_trainer_pat says, "Good question..."
master_trainer_mike says, "OK, here you go. In this case, your opponent WOULD have to discard the 2 cards from their hand due to the No Removal effect to actually PLAY the SER. Then you could check for the Slowking effect, and it might have the SER have no effect and then it would get placed back on their deck."
master_trainer_mike says, "They would NOT have to discard the energy card for the SER actual effect unless that card actually resolves."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #66 from general_surge:Do you realize that all decks will have rocket's zapdos?
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes."
master_trainer_mike says, "So, its not that great a card."
master_trainer_pat says, "I disagree with Mike on this one"
master_trainer_mike says, "By itself it won;t win ayou a game."
darkmt_mike says, "We tested well against it."
darkmaster_steve says, "Yeah, Meowth can take a TR Zapdos out.....really it can!~"
master_trainer_pat says, "Ha!"
darkmaster_steve says, "Why is everyone laughing at me?"
master_trainer_pat says, "We're not laughing at you...we're laughing near you."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #68 from feralshade:do you have a more definative date for Discovery's release?
master_trainer_pat says, "No, we don't yet."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #70 from delta00_pokemasters:is the prize package transferable like if i couldnt go but i wanted to give it to a friend...could i do that?
master_trainer_mike says, "NOPE!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #71 from phoenixaudubon:For the STS format, when you say that only cards from Team Rocket and later are allowed, does that include both Base Sets?
master_trainer_mike says, "Correct, no cards from Base, Jungle, Fossil or Base Set 2 are allowed."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #72 from soslowpoke:so leagues will be getting Igglybuffs in soon(how soon) and they will get more scizors next season?
master_trainer_pat says, "We can't say how soon. You will not be getting more Scizors, so don't go giving them out yet."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #74 from trovtwo:Is Igglybuff the Third movie one?
master_trainer_mike says, "nope"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #75 from benjita:Are there any other limitations besides the sets and Sneasel?
master_trainer_mike says, "60 card decks, max 4 of each non-basic energy card, can't use Anvcient Mew or Birthday Pikachu and if you play Rocket's Zapdos, you will be JUST LIKE EVERYONE else!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #77 from hi_jynx:My Smeargle and Cool Porygon blow Sneazle out of the water! Any word on the West Cost STS dates and formats?
master_trainer_mike says, "We just announced the East coast format today!! Hold your water!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #79 from mewtrhee:Why did base-fossil got banned?
master_trainer_mike says, "They are just not being used for this main tournament. You have noticed how broken the unlimited environment has been right?"
master_trainer_mike says, "(getting ready to hear some whining over that statement)"
darkmaster_steve says, "They were afraid that to many meowths could be played."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #82 from lugia_401:Did the sizor promo come out yet?
master_trainer_mike says, "It will be the season 5 card."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #86 from mewtrhee:What about the qualifiers in other countries?Will there be a quilifier in Greece?
master_trainer_mike says, "We will be announcing qualifiers for Europe for events later, watch our web site for details when we have them."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #87 from general_surge:Why did you ban when Media Factory said you can't?
master_trainer_mike says, "Media Factoy had concerns that we discussed with them. This is only for the one STS!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #88 from spago_:can you clarify that the card referred to in the announcement as "Sneazel" is, in fact Sneasel?
master_trainer_mike says, "Yes"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #89 from lugia_401:Do you know if there will be discounts for hotel and/or plane fairs if your with your family and/or a group. Like group or special rates?
master_trainer_mike says, "At this point I would recommend contacting hotles yourself. We have not heard of any info as of yet."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #91 from phoenixaudubon:Do any of you have a DCI rating?
master_trainer_pat says, "If I do it's for Magic and it's very old, because when we take jobs here we agree to never play in DCI sanctioned tournaments again."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #92 from intensity:So if its Rocket through Neo, does that mean that Neo 2 won't be released by the time the ECSTS rolls around?
master_trainer_mike says, "Ah good question."
master_trainer_mike says, "Since it will most likely be released only a short time before the ESTS, we have decided to be fair, that it will not be allowed in the main tournaments."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #94 from dark_hydra:so no base set/base set2 in STS?
master_trainer_mike says, "Feel free to use it in the league stuff though."
master_trainer_pat says, "Right"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #96 from ninetales2000:*Should* Iggly arrive by Saturday?
master_trainer_pat says, "No, probably not."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #97 from d_paulius:is it true that neo isnt gonna be shipped to ireland
master_trainer_mike says, "contact the WOTC UK office."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #98 from general_surge:Are you aware you made Rocket's Zapdos very good?
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes. He can be beaten."
master_trainer_mike says, "He is a strong card, but he can be beaten, and he forces a commitment to electric energy. Electrical decks can be beaten."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #99 from indigomaster33:So does that mean that we can't use the promo scyther in the STS since it is only in Neo 2 but it is a promo?
master_trainer_mike says, "Scizor can be used."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #100 from y2ace:When is the Offical Release date for Neo Discovery What day and month?
master_trainer_pat says, "Sometime in June."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #101 from phoenixaudubon:Will this be the first time a single card has been banned from a tournament not for being a humorous card?
master_trainer_pat says, "Not in Japan."
master_trainer_pat says, "Here, for Pokemon? Yes."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #102 from lugia_401:so is the going to be a STS promo card/
master_trainer_mike says, "don;t think so"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #103 from kreeber:how does morty's challenge work?
master_trainer_mike says, "THere will be a couple of GREAT articles on our stragety pages soon."
master_trainer_mike says, "Basically you cannot retreat or use any effects that retreat your Active Pokemon."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #104 from trovtwo:Will Scizor come later on as a NP promo,league promo,etc?
master_trainer_pat says, "Season 5 earned card for the league."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #105 from lugia_401:Will you be able to put up a banner for your team at the STS(S) on the STS ground?
master_trainer_mike says, "Sorry but no banners will be allowed"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #107 from lugia_401:So does that mean you can use the birthday pika?
master_trainer_mike says, "No , I just said you can't sorry :)"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #108 from thundrchld:will this no sneasel,rocket-neo format be only for the 1st day or both? =/
master_trainer_pat says, "Both days of competition."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #109 from hyperstar:What about Rocket Zapdos and Steelix
master_trainer_mike says, "A good combo!"
master_trainer_mike says, "But blaine's fire decks can be tough too!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #112 from pika_fx:Does this apply to the Qualifier Tournament? The "no" Sneasel rule?
master_trainer_pat says, "No it does not. It only applies to the STS itself."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #113 from warlockmaster:I am being completely serious, as I expect some sort of trick, and am now even more suspicious. You specifically said "Sneazel" with a Z, and repeatedly. Is "Sneasel" the neo genesis card banned/removed from STS tournament play or not?
master_trainer_mike says, "Let us be seriuous and clear. Sorry but it was a misspelling."
master_trainer_mike says, "Sneasel is banned for this ESTS main tournament."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #114 from kreeber:can you explaine ecogym?
master_trainer_pat says, "EcoGym will return your non-colorless energy cards back to your hand if an opponent uses a trainer, attack or something else to cause you to discard energy from your Pokemon"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #118 from trovtwo:When will the Create-a-card gallery be up?Will it be detailed or just picturers on pages?
master_trainer_mike says, "It is already up! Look on the bottom of the League page!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #122 from xvssgohanvx:Will You need your DCI card for the Qualifers?
master_trainer_pat says, "You will need your card if you have one. If you don't you can sign up therer"
master_trainer_pat says, "- the r"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #124 from indigomaster33:so if i have a murkrow active and i feint attack and attack my opponnents cleffa on the bench must i flip for the baby rule?
master_trainer_pat says, "No."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #125 from y2ace:Do you realize in this format rocket zapdos and steelix will run rampant?
master_trainer_mike says, "GUYS! Blaines Fire decks cut right through that!!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Hello!!!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Good luck, you've just told everyone what you'll be playing!"
master_trainer_mike says, "We have beaten those decks you keep mentioning. If we can, you can!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #126 from gold_gyarados:i have a strange japanese pikachu that i would like to know about. could you help me out?
master_trainer_pat says, "Sorry, we can't help you with that."
master_trainer_mike says, "OOOHHHH STRANGE!!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #127 from pika_fx:How long are the Qualifer Tournaments? As in the day? What time will they start at?
master_trainer_mike says, "The 2 days events run 10 am to 6pm, the one day events vary. Contact the TO and ask them."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #128 from metal_entei:how come Canada only have 3 loactions for QT and Us have like 30 locations?
master_trainer_mike says, "Well, Canada does have 1 tenth the US population, so the math would be.,...??????"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #129 from gold_gyarados:so does the format have effect on the qt's?
master_trainer_pat says, "no"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #130 from samantha_129:(RE: Q#56) They said they may not bring Pokemon 4 to America... =(
master_trainer_mike says, "Hadn"
master_trainer_mike says, "Hadn't heard that"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #131 from ckbrown123:What is the penalty if you are caught cheating in a DCI tournament?
master_trainer_mike says, "depends on what happened, could be a disqualification. All penalties are sent to the DCI, could be bannings, etc."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #132 from ninetales2000:Is it true that any participant in the 2-day qualifier will get 4 free boosters for even a complete loss?
master_trainer_pat says, "We're don't think so..."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #133 from phoenixaudubon:Is it true everyone starts out with the same DCI rating when they sign up for a number?
master_trainer_mike says, "Yes, 1600 is your starting rating."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #134 from ninetales2000:Is preregistry required for 2-day qualifiers?
master_trainer_pat says, "No"
master_trainer_pat says, "It would be a good idea to get there early."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #135 from wizo_pikapi:Are you guys up to any new special projects?
master_trainer_mike says, "We are getting ready for the World Trainer Center that you will help us build at the ESTS"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #136 from lugia_401:is there any early/ rough idea of where a WCSTS QT in canada will be?
master_trainer_mike says, "no info yet"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #137 from pika_fx:I have a DCI card for season 1 of the Pokemon League. But I don't think my league keeps track of the DCI ratings (or whatever) I really want to get ratings! What should I do?
master_trainer_pat says, "You don't earn points for the league, you actually have to participate in tournaments"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #139 from y2ace:is the san diego location for the wsts set in stone?
master_trainer_pat says, "No, it's not set in stone"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #140 from indigomaster33:What about the promo eevee (japanese neo 2) that has been circulating across the net? are they fake?
master_trainer_mike says, "no idea sorry"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #141 from megamanx:what are that sets that we can use in the STS?
master_trainer_mike says, "Team Rocket, Gym Heroes, Gym Challenge, Neo Genesis (in the main tournaments)"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #143 from ninetales2000:Will any non-League promos be released this year?
master_trainer_mike says, "maybe, Entei for the movie!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #144 from samantha_129:As for Neo 2 (I'm sorry if you cannot answer it yet, but...) I've heard both May and June for its release date. What is it really?
master_trainer_pat says, "JUne."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #145 from feralshade:being that its scheduled for release around this weekend (shipping error aside), can you reveal any specs for #36?
master_trainer_mike says, "Well, like most Pokemon cards it is 3.5" by 2.5""
master_trainer_mike says, "hee hee hee"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #146 from gold_gyarados:i would like to know if you guys could help me learn more about a strange japanese pikachu card i have i think it is a vending card
master_trainer_pat says, "No, we can't"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #148 from trovtwo:Were the same patterns for the reverse holo holos the same?A swirl here a dot there.

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #147 from soslowpoke:Will we ever see more pics of you guys on the Space Weedle site?
master_trainer_pat says, "I don't know"
master_trainer_mike says, "Sure! I am bringing my camera to this weekends 2 day QT in Seattle."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #149 from gold_gyarados:can we have energies from the fossil base and jungle sets?
master_trainer_pat says, "There are no energies in Fossil and Jungle. You can only use _basic_ energy cards from base set in your deck if you want."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #151 from ninetales2000:Is there enough time for one to play in the qualifier AND participate in the league to get a promo?
master_trainer_mike says, "Sure, there are multiple flights on the 2 day qt's, you should have time to do both."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #153 from lugia_401:did the sizors come out yet?
master_trainer_mike says, "They were sent to stores but they are being held for Season 5, Igglybuff isthe season 4 card."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #152 from trovtwo:Will the ruin tower be the smbol for Neo2 like it was in Japan?
master_trainer_pat says, "YEs."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #154 from megamanx:what about at the qualifier? will you be able to play base set jungle and fossil cards at it?
master_trainer_pat says, "Once again, this format does not affect the QT's at all."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #155 from kirbycopies:Pichu was given out at the league last weekend. Will the upcoming Scizor be seasons 4 promo or will it be a Season 5 and Pichu a season 4?
master_trainer_mike says, "Then they were released to early. Pichu and Igglybuff are the season 4 cards. Scizor is the Season 5 card."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #156 from feralshade:do you anticipate seeing igglybuff integrated into wiggly/sneasel decks or would that slow it down too much?
master_trainer_mike says, "It's not a bad card, maybe."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #157 from trovtwo:Re 74 so it isn't like the one given out at the third movie in Japan?
master_trainer_pat says, "We don't know what you're talking about."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #159 from lugia_401:Do you think there are a lot of rocket zapdos and pichu 1st still around?
master_trainer_mike says, "you mean first edition??? 1st edition Rocket Zapdos's will be hard to find."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #160 from soslowpoke:is the Igglybuff promo the one released in Japan to go with their third movie?
master_trainer_mike says, "Sorry but we live in the Staes. Don;t know what happens this specifically in japan."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #161 from samantha_129:I can't go, but I wouldn't play Rocket's Zapdos anyway...I'm one of the few players that tries to be original (A stall deck with Miltank and Brock's Onix? Yup...)
master_trainer_mike says, "YAY!!"
master_trainer_mike says, "YOU ROCK!!!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Finally someone with some imagination!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #162 from hi_jynx:Must my basic energy cards have the Hero/Challenge/Neo symbol on them (asking half seriously)?
master_trainer_mike says, "No, you can use basic energy from earlier sets."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #163 from rjagan:what is the deck format for east sts?
master_trainer_pat says, "we'll announce it again at the end of the chat."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #165 from trovtwo:So Sneasel can still be played in tournaments?
master_trainer_mike says, "sure, just not in the main tournaments at the ESTS"
master_trainer_mike says, "go on our web site, click on Events, then tournamnets, then the DCI"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #166 from dark_hydra:where can i go to check on my DCI rating?

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #168 from gold_gyarados:how can you see the dci ratings?
master_trainer_mike says, "you can check there"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #167 from megamanx:does no base through base set 2 mean you cannot have double colorless energies or any of that set's energies in the deck?
master_trainer_mike says, "RIGHT!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #169 from general_surge:Are you aware that there are actually less usable decks now than in open format?
master_trainer_mike says, "There will be NEW decks for this format iknstead of the same old blah blah blah decks."
master_trainer_mike says, "A game needs to chjange to remain dynamic and interesting."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #170 from delta00_pokemasters:will crosstrainer be allowed at ESTS??
master_trainer_pat says, "It won't be out by then."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #172 from chrisbo:I found a link on WotC's website that point to the European QT information and makes mention of the location for West STS. Is this official yet? Care to comment about it?
master_trainer_mike says, "not official yet, wait and see"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #173 from trovtwo:Should we trust rumors?Should we take things you say seriously
master_trainer_mike says, "when we give announcements at the start of the chat, they are all factual"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #175 from hi_jynx:What does D C I stand for?
master_trainer_pat says, "Duelist's Convocation International"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #174 from pika_fx:When I went to the West STS there was a guy who worked at Wizards and he would teach (through out the day on the Q.Mary) kids how to play the TCG. I battled him at the Torrence STS Qualifier Tournament. Will he be at the Westminister Mall to battle
master_trainer_mike says, "sorry but we don;t know"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #176 from bahamutt:How many new cards will there be in Neo2?
master_trainer_mike says, "wait and see"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #177 from trovtwo:Dose Wizards have the right to produce cards that dn't affect gameplay ex.Special Vending cards?
master_trainer_pat says, "I don't think so."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #178 from lugia_401:will there be the pichu at the STS like at the toy fair?
master_trainer_mike says, "dunno"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #180 from trovtwo:Will Wizards ever release the first foil they used for pokemon cards?
master_trainer_mike says, "most likely not, we used up most of it laready"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #181 from lugia_401:do you know anything about a league shutting down without notice? do you have any clue about that in canada? (why would they do that)
master_trainer_mike says, "League sites are up to the store that was running the league, if they shut down, you need to ask them why they chose to do so"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #182 from delta00_pokemasters:if i only have energy from base set can i still use it? (electric, water etc.)

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #183 from delta00_pokemasters:this means no DCE...right?
master_trainer_pat says, "You can use basic energy, but not DCE's"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #184 from feralshade:will prop 3-15 be in effect at any of the ests events?
master_trainer_mike says, "15/3 is dead! A big old rock fell on its head."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #186 from purity1:how can we use scizor, if scyther is no longer available?
master_trainer_mike says, "guess you can't!"
master_trainer_mike says, "not effectively anyway :)"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #187 from toonpark:Does Mr Mime's Invisible Wall power prevent damage done by attacks that place damage counters such as the ones on Sabrina's Golduck, Sabrina's Kadabra & Rockets Mewtwo ?
master_trainer_pat says, "No, it does not."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #188 from gold_gyarados:i have a blaines deck exactly how good will it be?
master_trainer_pat says, "That depends on what's in it."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #192 from trovtwo:Will the Southern Islands cards have Neo or regular design(Weakness resistance look)?
master_trainer_pat says, "We don't know yet."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #194 from feralshade:regarding "GUYS! Blaines Fire decks cut right through that!!!", how do you get around slow energy build-up using strictly blaines pok�mon: mantine would make short order out of b's growlithe (stoke will only take you so far)
master_trainer_mike says, "why do you have to ONLY use blaine's POKEMON!??!?!"
master_trainer_pat says, "That will remain our secret...."
master_trainer_pat grins evilly.
master_trainer_mike says, "Geez guys! Think outside the box!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #190 from scrye_fung:MTM .. What's the schedule like for the upcoming Seattle qualifier? Got a website where I can check out?
master_trainer_mike says, "There is not a specific schedule outside of multiple flights for the qt's and league activities the whole time. MT Pat, DMT Mike and I will be there both days in the league zone playing and others will come and go."
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes! So if you're in the area come by and challenge us!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #191 from toonpark:I see there is no date in the UK for the European qualifiers. Will one be added ?
master_trainer_mike says, "When we have more information to post, we will do so."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #193 from soslowpoke:hey guys, if your not doing anythign on tues. night put on Fox Sports network at 7 PM and watch the sox-A's game and see our band play
master_trainer_mike says, "Ok :)"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #196 from dark_hydra:why are you only doing a couple 2-day QT? the people who are doing the 1 day Qt here in FL are really making this difficult
master_trainer_mike says, "We are doing less 2 day events so that we can afford to do more 1 day events in more areas and allow more players the opportunity to participate."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #197 from phoenixaudubon:Say, MTPat, what is your point of view on the whole "Maple Bar" issue?
master_trainer_pat says, "Maple Bars are yummy!"
darkmt_mike says, "Hey!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #198 from feralshade:will you post photos of the trainer center's development--as you did with the Space Weedle?
darkmt_mike says, "Way to go!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Plan to :)"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #199 from trovtwo:Glad to hear no bickering on the debate of Doughnuts as Maple Bars and vice-versa.
master_trainer_mike says, "yeah that was getting old"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #200 from lugia_401:Where do I find places in canada for offical DCI tourneys cuz the league I go 2 has a tourney but it dosent count on your DCI rank
master_trainer_mike says, "Just go onto our web site , click on events and use the DCI tournament locator"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #201 from phoenixaudubon:So, what's the caveat for using promos again?
master_trainer_pat says, "You can use any of the Black Star promos except for Ancient Mew an B-day Pikachu"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #202 from phoenixaudubon:Will this format apply to WCSTS as well?
master_trainer_mike says, "NO!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #205 from hi_jynx:What is the URL for the Space Weedle site?
master_trainer_mike says, "its at http://home.earthlink.net/~seawolven"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #206 from feralshade:will you ever consider making a standard size of the card "articuno, zapdos, and moltres", or is it too powerful?
master_trainer_pat says, "Nothing planned right now."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #207 from dark_hydra:aaahhhh no more DCE???
master_trainer_mike says, "NOPE!!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #208 from trovtwo:How do you bring the Space Weedle places with you?
master_trainer_mike says, "well we are o for 2 in getting it out to the public :)"
master_trainer_mike says, "we will keep trying"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #210 from soslowpoke:i have a track meet on the same day as our qualifier, if i get there late will i still be able to regiuster for the later events?
master_trainer_pat says, "If it's a 2-day event you should be ok."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #211 from michel1be:My opponent has Slowking on the bench and I want to play Computer search. Do I discard 2 cards before my opponent flips, or do I discard only if he flips tails when I use my CPU search ?
master_trainer_pat says, "No, you wouldn't"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #212 from blaine19054:what is the format for STS
master_trainer_mike says, "only allowed to use cards from Team Rocket, Gym Heroes, Gym Challenge and Neo Genesis and Sneasel is banned."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #213 from lugia_401:do you think the pichu cards are still at the league
master_trainer_mike says, "They shouldn't have started yet until season 4 starts this weekend!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #216 from hi_jynx:No Double Colorless Energy allowed at the ECSTS? ;-(
master_trainer_pat says, "That's right."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #217 from lugia_401:My league got shut down untill ferthier notice. I would like to know if my league would of still got that stuff shiped to the cornator. And if not could they get it when the league opens again?
master_trainer_mike says, "not sure, email us with details at [email protected] and we might be able to find out for you"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #218 from trovtwo:Re152 So will the Neo2 Symbol be larger or smaller than it's Japanese one?
master_trainer_pat says, "As far as I can tell it looks the same."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #220 from mewboy12345:Giovanni is the best gym leader
master_trainer_mike says, "ok"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #221 from haymakermaker:Can we use Base Set 2 cards at sts?
master_trainer_mike says, "NOT IN THE MAIN TOURNAMENT (outside of basic energy)"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #222 from spago_:is promo psyduck allowed under the ECSTS format?
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes, you can."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #224 from soslowpoke:Ok, lets rephrase this, Is the Igglybuff promo the one with Sing attack?
master_trainer_mike says, "have to wait and see"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #225 from feralshade:it's probably already been asked, but would effects on ditto (agility, swords dance, smokescreen,etc.) remain if the defending pok�mon is benched?
master_trainer_mike says, "yes they would"
master_trainer_mike says, "(as long as Ditto wasn;t the defending Pokemon in this case)."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #226 from hi_jynx:With all the redundant questions, ever consideri copy/paste the announements at the top of the second hour also?
master_trainer_mike says, "we used to do taht but then we didn;t have as much time to answer your questions."
master_trainer_pat says, "It doesn't seem to cut down on the repeat questions."
master_trainer_mike says, "So we announce at the start and at the end."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #228 from trovtwo:Was the Charizard in the Japanese Promo folder for the third movie a repeat of the base set one just different appearence?
master_trainer_mike says, "ok, let's be clear on this, we do NOT make the japanese cards and do NOT answer questions about them"
master_trainer_mike says, "next"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #229 from chrisbo:Since the format for the STS is going to be "expansion-specific", can you tell us anything yet about how the deck checks for that will be handled?
master_trainer_mike says, "There will be deck checks done just like Magic tournaments are done. You will fill out a deck list when you register and after each round there will be random checks done."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #230 from phoenixaudubon:I remember that there was some card combo involving The Rocket's Trap, and some other Trainer. Will that be a factor, besides Rocket's Zapdos and Steelix?
master_trainer_mike says, "Well you don't have Lass anymore or Imposter Professor Oak so the Trapper combo isn't as effecetive."
master_trainer_mike says, "And with Cleffa and Elm, we stopped used Trap a while ago here."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #231 from darkaspenth:There have been rumors about when Neo Discovery is to be released.Will it be out in May or June?
master_trainer_mike says, "June."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #232 from phoenixaudubon:Are you aware that the word "convocation" carries a rather strong religious connotation?
master_trainer_pat says, "convocation n 1: a group gathered in response to a summons 2: the act of convoking [syn: calling together]"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #233 from trovtwo:Can we win the doughnut box under your computer at the STS?

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #234 from purity1:well.....earlier you said that we could....(use scizor) :P
master_trainer_mike says, "ewww... I throw all the icky maple bars in there...I heard it move and make noise earlier today, not sure if you would want it"
master_trainer_pat says, "Right, you can use Scizor, but you'd only be able to get him in play with Brock's Ninetales"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #235 from feralshade:about the new format, these days most new decks i see are new cards applied to retain the classic archetype themes (feraligator/blastoise, gligar/scyther, r. zpdos/electabuzz, etc). Do you think this will be reflected in the ests, or has Haymaker finally met its maker(or more accurately, lost it's maker :) )?
master_trainer_mike says, "That will be entirely up to you, the public. We play with other deck types here competitively, but will you?"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #236 from chrisbo:I know this is a bit nit-picky, but I presume that you can use basic energy cards (fire, grass, etc.; not DCE) from either of the Base sets at the STS, right? :p
master_trainer_mike says, "Right, just like you can use earlier copies of cards in Magic, you can use earlier copies of allowed cards in Pokemon in this format"
master_trainer_mike says, "NOT COUNTING PROMO PSYDUCK, you must have the promo card in this case."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #237 from hi_jynx:Scizor can be used in a deck that has Brock's Ninetales Shapeshift PP, right?
master_trainer_mike says, "RIGHT!!!"
master_trainer_pat says, "You got it!"
master_trainer_mike says, "(thanks for the save!)"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #238 from crazy_nut_man:Is SCIZOR promo #33? IS it League Promo #4?? [Let me guess what your going to say]
master_trainer_pat says, "It's promo #33, season 5"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #239 from darkaspenth:When Neo 3 is released,will Shiny Magikarp and/or Shiny Gyarados keep their special holofoil pattern and three-star rarity?
master_trainer_mike says, "geez, Neo 2 hasn't even come out!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #242 from trovtwo:For Scizors attack on the American card Metal Pincher,do you keep flipping a coin after the pokemon is knocked out or do you stop?
master_trainer_mike says, "you keep flipping until you get tails. Damage isn't placed until the total amount of damage is determined first"
master_trainer_pat says, "Remember you don't place damage on until the attack has finished"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #243 from soslowpoke:So will the southern islands giftbox just be the 18 cards from that set?
master_trainer_mike says, "wait and see!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #244 from gold_gyarados:i was playing a game and my opponent was using a blaines charizard and he said that you use fighting energy to use his first attack i called the gym leader and he said it was right was that right?
master_trainer_mike says, "Sorry but your friend is wrong, that was an errataed misrpint that we announced last year. Should have been a fire symbol, play it as if it WAS a fire symbol."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #245 from toonpark:Does a Muk coming into play, playing a Goop Gas Attack card or that Magby attack have any effect on an allready buzzapped Electrode ?
master_trainer_pat says, "No, the Electrode is effectively an energy card after using Buzzap."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #246 from phoenixaudubon:If my League hasn't yet received its Season 3 stuff, like Smeargle sticker/promo and badges, should I have my Gym Leader inquire about it?
master_trainer_mike says, "Heres the scoop guys, every store that has actually paid us for the materails gets them sent to them. If a store has not received them in the past, they should have contacted us LONG ago."
master_trainer_mike says, "In most of these cases, the store has not paid its bill."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #247 from gold_gyarados:where do you go to view dci rankings?
master_trainer_mike says, "On our website, go under events, then tournaments, then DCI"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #248 from crazy_nut_man:Do you known that it is a fact that pojo mag. is shutting down?
master_trainer_mike says, "I read about that but that is all I heard"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #249 from jay_lv99:if you have a Sabrina's Alakazam and use megaburn, then next turn use psylink to another sabrina's alakazam's mega burn
master_trainer_mike says, "nope, you cannot use that named attack next turn, whether it is a copy or not"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #250 from scrye_fung:Any chance for Space Weedle @ Seattle Qualifier?
master_trainer_mike says, "sorry but no, the traveling beats it up"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #253 from haymakermaker:Are there any easter eggs for play it version 2?
master_trainer_mike says, "haven't heard of any"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #256 from jay_lv99:about proxies, if you have proxies in your deck for ecsts and a card of the proxie offhand can you use a proxie?
master_trainer_mike says, "nope, proxies have never been allowed in DCI sanctioned events"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #257 from darkaspenth:Are there any plans to release the jumbo Entei as an english promo?
master_trainer_mike says, "not that I know of"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #258 from goku07:how can i get the silver wing on gold verson for gameboy
master_trainer_mike says, "I'd ask Nintendo that one"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #259 from phoenixaudubon:Does the "Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres" promo have a number?
master_trainer_mike says, "nope, it was an oversized card released by WB stores last year"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #260 from pika_fx:At the STS Qualifier Tournaments are those DCI Tournaments? Will they make your ratings go higher or what? ^-^
master_trainer_mike says, "yes they are sanctioned and can affect your DCI rating"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #263 from feralshade:does WOTC plan to sponsor any more non-promotional tournies besides the annual (or semi-annual depending how you look at it) sts?
master_trainer_mike says, "well we do sanction other events, but that is it for now"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #264 from phoenixaudubon:Looking at the pictures, does the Space Weedle actually float ON TOP of the water, or has the picture been doctored? What about the Leaning Tower of Pika?
master_trainer_mike says, "well that would mean Pat and I float on watre too right? Do we Pat?"
master_trainer_pat says, "Actually the Mana Pool is really shallow that's all."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #265 from chrisbo:Sorry if I've missed this already, but if Neo: Discovery is released prior to the STS date, will those cards be allowed?
master_trainer_mike says, "Nope. Since they will be relased too close to the event, it would not be fair to allow them as most players might have difficulty getting them in time. They will not be allowed in the main tournaments"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #268 from phoenixaudubon:When would I use the phrase, "Many Bothans died"?
master_trainer_mike says, "that phrase has been sanitized for your protection"
master_trainer_pat says, "right before ' to bring us this information'"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #269 from feralshade:can a japanese fossil mew be used as a proxy in the main ests tourny?
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes, but you must have an English version with you"
master_trainer_mike says, "why would you want to? we gave away zillions of those in english!!!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #270 from phoenixaudubon:So, who actually held the Tropical Mega Battle? Was it Wizards, or M
master_trainer_mike says, "That is Creatures gig."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #271 from chrisbo:RE Q230 OK, so the Lass part of the classic Trapper combo won't be there. Can you think of any other trainers or attacks that would act even remotely similar to Lass. P.S. Imp.Oak's Revenge is from TR, so only 1/3 of the combo is missing.
master_trainer_mike says, "Sorry I was thinking of Imposter Professor Oak"
master_trainer_pat says, "Trapper suffers against a deck with Cleffa in it."
master_trainer_mike says, "How about Secret Mission? You get to look at their hand and then you can discard cards and draw more."
master_trainer_mike says, "Not quite as good but you can see what thye are holidng and decide whether to Trap them or ot."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #272 from feralshade:will there ever be a way to discard one or more of your opponents trainers instead of merely having them send it/them back their deck?
master_trainer_pat says, "There is one Pokemon that will do this but I think it's a flip to do it."
master_trainer_mike says, "dunno"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #273 from haymakermaker:Could you put up another Promo card checklist on the site soon?
master_trainer_mike says, "we will pass that suggestion along"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #274 from sd_pokemom:Is there a location and date set yet for the WCSTS in San Diego ?
master_trainer_mike says, "nope"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #275 from haymakermaker:If Electrode is Energy Flowed or Ecogymed back into your hand, is it still an energy card?
master_trainer_mike says, "no, it reverts back to beiung Electrode"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #276 from samantha_129:I know it was already ruled upon, but DO you play Dark Vileplume as though it really had a fighting weakness (the non-holo misprint)?
master_trainer_mike says, "correct, play the card as written"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #277 from pika_fx:In the Pokemon TCG what are Limited and Constructed?
master_trainer_mike says, "those are magic terms, don't necessarily apply to Pokemon"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #278 from sd_pokemom:Is it true that Togepi/Cleffa/Pichu supplies are out-of-stock? We are still waiting on all our promo card supplies..we have the kits, but NO cards!
master_trainer_mike says, "we are not out of stock, are you the person who runs theleague?"
master_trainer_mike says, "it sounds like the store is not willing to p ay the bill"
master_trainer_mike says, "every store that has paid for their supplies, has received them"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #279 from tyais:Since I know tons of people are already flipping out, let me make some open suggestions. Think outside the box. As it is, people are looking to Rocket's Zapdos to own everything. However, you CAN get outside that mold. Whooper is a great anti-Zapdos card. As well, look for evolutions thats have cool effects like Dark Muk, Dark Vileplume, Slowking, Erika's Victrebell, and other Pokemon that work off great attacks. Rocket-Neo can be a very varied format so long as you look for invnetive decks... because an inventive deck is what will win this STS.
master_trainer_mike says, "Thak you Tyais :)"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #280 from feralshade:is there an official correlation between Magic and Pok�mon( besides the manufacturer) or are gameplay similarities just a coincidence?
master_trainer_pat says, "No official correlation"
master_trainer_mike says, "Magic was first, most subsequent TCG's have used some of the methods pioneered by it"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #281 from pokotcg:If I'm using Rocket Scyther, and Shadow images is in effect. If I knock out Rocket Gyrados would my you flip 2 coins or just the 1 coin 4 final beam?
master_trainer_pat says, "Just one coin..."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #282 from jay_lv99:when is the sts date?
master_trainer_mike says, "JUne 23-24th"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #283 from lugia_401:On how well pokemon is selling will the be at least 2 more STS's (not including 2001's) if pokemon sales stay and/or rise?
master_trainer_mike says, "we are working on the current ones, the future can b e cloudy ytoung one"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #284 from jay_lv99:can you use a japanese Meganium in a deck if you have the american card also so you can see?
master_trainer_pat says, "Sure, just make sure it's the correct version."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #286 from phoenixaudubon:This is just my opinion, but it seems that MTPat is the only one who MAINTAINS being serious during these chats...
master_trainer_pat says, "No, I get nutty behind the scenes too. I do try to give you guys the right rulings though, so does Mike."
master_trainer_mike says, "ummmm...errrr...........maybe???"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #287 from jay_lv99:what's the pronunciation of meganium?
master_trainer_mike says, "throck warbling mangrove"
master_trainer_mike says, "OH, was I not being serious?!?!?!?!"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #288 from lugia_401:Where do you guys really chat? like are you all together in the same room? are you in the car with your laptops? are you in your house?
master_trainer_pat says, "We drive around in a Jeep with a satellite connection, like in Pump Up the Volume."
master_trainer_mike says, "we are stacked like cordwood in a small damp closet........"
master_trainer_mike says, "Kierin phones in from Air Force One."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #290 from jay_lv99:I came late, so Base 1 and 2, Jungle, and fossil can't be used in ecsts?
master_trainer_mike says, "Correct, not in the main tournament"
master_trainer_pat says, "Hey Mike are we ready for the announcements soon?"
master_trainer_pat says, "5 minutes..."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #292 from gold_gyarados:how long have you three been playing the pokemon tcg?
master_trainer_pat says, "January 1999"
master_trainer_mike says, "I started in May 1999."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #293 from tyais:People seem to think Trapper will be an all awesome combo here, however, Trapper works of a no hand principle. With Cleffa, that is hard. Even furthermore, the main card engines prevent you from playing any more Trainers. Trapper will take either 2 Traps which you then have a 25% chance of pulling, or 3 cards in hand with a 50% chance of happening.... it won't be a problem.
master_trainer_mike says, "Right on brutha!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Man, we should hire you...."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #294 from phoenixaudubon:Who drew the illustrations for each of you?(like MTM's in his "Akimbo!" series)
master_trainer_mike says, "They were done by Luke Matthews, a fellow employee."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #295 from phoenixaudubon:By the way, MTM, did you know that there is a play entitled, "Kimberly Akimbo"?
master_trainer_mike says, "Really??"

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #296 from toonpark:Can I just say that I think the STS format is a brave and welcome choice that will make for a more open playing field. It is just a shame I live in the UK and can't attend.
master_trainer_mike says, "Thanks for your support :)"
master_trainer_pat says, "What a very refreshing attitude you have."

master_trainer_pat presents the speaker with question #297 from gold_gyarados:is your baseball tcg selling at all?
master_trainer_mike says, "YUP!"
master_trainer_pat says, "Yes, it is."

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #298 from masteryoda:are there going to be any expansion, or single card bans at ECSTS?
master_trainer_mike says, "wait for the closing announcements"
master_trainer_pat says, "Chill master yoda"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #299 from gold_gyarados:is up to the leagues owner to decide if a person can use foreign cards?
master_trainer_mike says, "no, they have to allow them if they have an english card with tem"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #301 from tyais:At the last STS there were some judging problems, has Wizards taken any steps to correct this for the upcoming STS? ;-)
master_trainer_mike says, "would that be shamelss self promotion Tyais?????"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #306 from feralshade:thanks for answering our questions and thanks for actually posting announcements this week :)
master_trainer_mike says, "not a problem, sorry we tell you stuff when we have it :)"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #307 from masteryoda:will any restrictions be added on to any cards? (such as limiting trainer denial to not useable on 1st turn) I was told U were gonna do that
master_trainer_mike says, "nope"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #309 from warlockmaster:I'd also like to add to Tyais' thoughts, evolutions shall rule the STS. I can especially say that Steelix is not such a broken card. You have high-hitting fire cards plus Blaine's Charmander. Creativity will surely do well here..
master_trainer_mike says, "Right on!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #314 from pika_fx:Will there be any publicity at the East STS? Like at the West STS? (Newsreporters, etc?)
master_trainer_mike says, "Sure!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #316 from pkmn43:will there be a chance that the space weedle will arrive at NJ this time in full?
master_trainer_mike says, "We hope so!"

master_trainer_mike presents the speaker with question #315 from gold_gyarados:my gym leader told me that he doesn't allow japaneses cards in his league can you e-mail me a copy of that rule so i could tell him because i had copied the translations and still didn't let me
master_trainer_mike says, "sorry, make sure you have the english cards with you, we hear of many cases where the students don;t have them"
master_trainer_mike says, "also there are many leagues, if you don;t like that one, try another"
master_trainer_mike says, "Ok now the closing announecemnts"
master_trainer_mike says, "Some announcements, first some DCI info for you. Since the QT's and the STS main tournaments are all DCI sanctioned, if you participate in one of the 2 day QT's and you win on the first day, you CANNOT participate in the same tournament on the second day. This will also be true at the STS. If you happen to win on of the 3 age group main tournaments on Saturday, you will NOT be able to participate in the same tournament on Sunday."
master_trainer_mike says, "Of course, you would be welcome to take part in the leagues or other activities, just not the main tournament again."
master_trainer_mike says, "Also since these are DCI sanctioned events you WILL have to have a DCI number. If you don't already have one, you can get one (for free of course) when you register for these events."
master_trainer_mike says, "The Season 4 promo for the league will NOT be Scizor as some of you may already know. It will be Igglybuff (promo #36). Due to some shipping errors, the Igglybuff point grid stickers were sent out to the leagues along with the Scizors. We will be sending out the Igglybuff cards to use with the point grids stickers for Season 4. All Leagues will be told to hold onto the Scizors for Season 5 instead."
master_trainer_mike says, "If a league gives away its Scizors before Season 5, it will NOT be given any more copies of that card so pass along that they want to hold onto them or they will be without any promo cards until Season 6."
master_trainer_mike says, "Don't forget you can also do an activity and earn a very cool Reverse-Holo Pichu in Season 4 as well. Supplies are limited so get to your league now!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Here is a ruling correction:"
master_trainer_mike says, "Q. What happens when you attach a Rainbow Energy to Blaine's Ninetales when it has 10 HP left? Does it get knocked out or not?"
master_trainer_mike says, "A. It would get Knocked out. Rainbow energy only counts as all types when it is already in play. You do the 10 damage from Rainbow when you attach it which takes place before it is in play and before the Healing Fire Power would trigger."
master_trainer_mike says, "Now what you have been waiting for, the ESTS format announcement!"
master_trainer_mike says, "In order to provide a more robust play environment, we have, as in the past, created a deck design format for the East Coast Super Trainer Showdown. That format will be as follows:"
master_trainer_mike says, "Only Pokemon TCG cards from the following sets may be used: Team Rocket, Gym Heroes, Gym Challenge and Neo Genesis. Cards from any sets previous to these sets or from the Neo Discovery set are not permitted for deck construction."
master_trainer_mike says, "All Pokemon TCG promo cards may be used, with the exception of promo cards that have identical versions in Pokemon TCG card sets that are have been restricted from use. This includes all Pre-Release and foil stamped versions of these cards. (Pre-Release Clefable, Pre-Release Aerodactyl, etc.)"
master_trainer_mike says, "Sneazel, a Pokemon from the Neo Genesis expansion cannot be played in this event."
master_trainer_mike says, "We have removed the older sets from this environment in order to generate new deck styles and deck ideas for play. A large enough base of cards has been included to allow players to build decks without limiting the types of viable Pokemon, or removing the key cards necessary to play decks with multiple Pokemon types."
master_trainer_mike says, "The decision to remove Sneazel from this environment does not indicate that we consider the card a problem for normal constructed play. We did feel that, in this environment, Sneazel presented too strong a Pokemon choice to be ignored by skilled trainers and that he would be included in most decks. We felt this would not allow decks ideas to be fully realized, since Sneazel would be chosen as the optimal Active Pokemon. It is our belief that with the release of later sets, that Sneazel will not populate decks so fully as to curb good deck construction concepts."
master_trainer_mike says, "That's it!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Thank you all for coming!"
master_trainer_pat says, "See ya next week gang. Unless you're going to be at the Southcenter QT this weekend. In which case we'll see you there!"
master_trainer_mike says, "See you next week!"
master_trainer_mike says, "Look for us there!"