Norwescon 40 Membership Guide

Norwescon 40

The full membership guide for Norwescon 40

Norwescon

April 13–16, 2017

Acrobat .pdf (distributed on paper during the con).

English

NORWESCON 40 MEMBERSHIP GUIDE AS OF 2/22/2017

Contents

MEMBERSHIP 4

MEMBERSHIP OF MINORS 4

BADGE REPLACEMENT FEE 4

RIGHT OF REFUSAL 4

RULES AND POLICIES 4

CHILD AND TEEN RULES 4

HARASSMENT POLICY 5

WEAPONS POLICY 5

DRINKING 6

PARTIES 7

SMOKING 7

ANIMALS 7

FLYERS 7

SLEEPING IN HALLS AND STAIRWAYS 7

EVENTS 7

ART IN ACTION 7

ART SHOW 7

CLOSING CEREMONIES 8

MASQUERADE 8

PRESENTATION JUDGING 9

WORKMANSHIP JUDGING 9

ONIONS AND ROSES 9

OPENING CEREMONIES 9

PHILIP K. DICK AWARD CEREMONY 9

SINGLE PATTERN CONTEST 10

SERVICES 10

NORWESCON PROVIDED 10

CLOAK ROOM 10

CONVENTION AND SECURITY OFFICES 10

DAILY 'ZINE 10

GUIDEBOOK 10

INFORMATION TABLE 10LOST AND FOUND 11

PEACEBONDING 11

TEENS AND TEEN RUNNERS 11

VOLUNTEERING 11

HOTEL PROVIDED 12

HOTEL SHUTTLE 12

POOL AND HOT TUB 12

INTERNET ACCESS 12

PARKING 12

HOTEL PARKING RATES 12

DOUBLETREE RESTAURANTS AND BARS 12

COFFEE GARDEN AND SEAPORTS MENUS Error! Bookmark not defined.

WHAT'S IN THE LOCAL AREA 13

RESTAURANTS 13

CONVENIENCE STORES 14

GROCERY STORES 14

BANKS AND ATMS 14

TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR CONVENTION EXPERIENCE THE BEST 15

MEMBERSHIP

Everyone attending Norwescon who is 13 years of age and over is required to fill out a membership form before receiving a membership badge. Membership forms are now digital and completed and signed via the Norwescon registration website/database. Signing the membership form indicates that you understand the rules of conduct as listed in this document and posted in our policies manual (available on our website) and agree to abide by them. Children 12 and under receive a free membership when attending with their parent or guardian; their membership is linked to an adult's registration.

Membership includes:

• The right to attend the convention

• Membership badge

• Program/Souvenir Book, Pocket Program, and Member's Guide

• Post-Con Report (for all current members)

Your membership badge must be visibly displayed while in any designated convention space. Anyone who cannot produce a current membership badge upon request will be asked to leave convention space.

MEMBERSHIP OF MINORS

A minor, as defined by the State of Washington, must have a parent or legal guardian/individual designated by the parent or legal guardian who is on-site when the minor is on-site. Minors must have a permission slip on file with Registration signed by a parent or guardian.

BADGE REPLACEMENT FEE

If a membership badge is lost, you are encouraged to search everywhere before a new one is issued. Make sure you check with Lost and Found (both the hotel and the convention have Lost and Found departments), Registration, and Security before purchasing a replacement badge. The fee for replacement of a lost badge is $55.

RIGHT OF REFUSAL

Norwescon reserves the right to refuse or withdraw membership for any reason.

RULES AND POLICIES

CHILD AND TEEN RULES

Norwescon welcomes its young and future fans. To do this, we have programs planned throughout the convention geared for different age groups. Please refer to the Pocket Program and online guide for information about programming for children, tweens, and teens.

A minor, as defined by the State of Washington, must have a parent or legal guardian/individual designated by the parent or legal guardian who is on-site when the minor is on-site. Minors must have a permission slip signed by a parent or guardian on file with Registration.

Norwescon does not accept responsibility for supervision of attending minors; that responsibility remains with a minor's parent/guardian/designee. If child care is needed, the DoubleTree by Hilton

Seattle Airport has a relationship with Best Sitters, Inc.; for more information on Best Sitters, call (206) 682-2556.

HARASSMENT POLICY

Norwescon strives to provide a safe and welcoming space for persons of all descriptions. Everyone should be able to have a great time, in their own way, at the convention---but not at the expense of others. As a community, we insist on behavior that respects the autonomy of each individual member.

Norwescon members and convention staff have the right to be free from unwanted harassment at the convention and while performing convention-related duties throughout the year. Harassment is behavior that focuses unwelcome attention on a person and either inappropriately crosses reasonable expectations of social boundaries or continues after a clear showing of disinterest or a request to desist.

Harassment during the year may be reported to the Personnel executive, the person's immediate supervisor, the chair, or the vice chair. At the convention, harassment reports are handled by convention security or the Personnel executive. Any staff member wearing a convention badge may receive a report of harassment. Each staff member is responsible for treating a person making such a report with respect and to offer to accompany the person to convention security or the Personnel executive. The Personnel executive may designate a person to receive reports of harassment on his or her behalf.

Violations of this policy may lead to a range of consequences based on the circumstances, from a warning to more serious steps, such as revocation of convention membership or banning from future conventions.

Convention staff are required to report all incidents brought to their attention. These incidents should be reported to convention security or the Personnel executive as soon as possible.

WEAPONS POLICY

WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO INSPECT AND REJECT ANY WEAPON AT ANY TIME.

VIOLATION OF THIS POLICY IN PART OR IN WHOLE MAY LEAD TO YOUR REMOVAL FROM THE CONVENTION BY CONVENTION EXECUTIVE STAFF AND FROM THE HOTEL BY HOTEL SECURITY OR LOCAL AUTHORITIES.

This policy includes all real and replicated weapons of any type that may be construed as a projectile weapon or any extension of the human hand.

Peacebonding will be available next to the Information Table during open registration hours and in the Security Office when the Peacebonding table is closed.

Peacebonding is required on all weapons visibly worn/carried on the hotel property, including parking areas and indoor spaces. The only type of peacebonding allowed is that provided by the convention. Fashion coordinated substitutes are not sufficient.

NO unsheathed weapon allowed in ANY public space (unless approved in advance for Masquerade or Programming event in which bonding ties will be removed for such an event and replaced immediately afterward).

All bladed/pointed weapons will be appropriately covered in all public areas and function spaces, including but not limited to daggers, swords, pikes, axes, and polearms, be they made of steel, plastic, or any other hard material.

Polearms, spears, staves, and other such weapons shall be kept upright at all times and have weapon heads sheathed and bonded. The ends of said weapons must never project more than 12 inches from the bearer's body.

Some weapons are never allowed: tasers, batons, real guns, pepper spray, crossbows, slingshots, pellet guns, water pistols, blowguns, catapults, or any type of functioning projectile weapon.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING:

"Airsoft-style" or "Nerf-style" weapons:

At NO time is ammunition allowed, in weapon or in magazine.

Empty magazines are NOT allowed in the weapon but are allowed in a belt or pouch for costume purposes (again NO ammunition allowed).

Bows (again, crossbows are NOT allowed):

Arrows must be secured (proof required) in such a manner as to be unable to be removed from their container and be secured by Peacebonding, as with all weapons.

Any obvious appearing toy "side arms," such as disruptors, phasers, laser tag pistols/rifles, laser pointers, or any other item that can project/emit light or sound shall be peacebonded and remain in an appropriate holster at all times or held in an appropriate manner. Exemptions must be authorized by qualified Security personnel.

Special consideration will be granted by the Convention Services Executive or a select designee by said Executive to Merchants or Dealers who display or show for the purpose of sale. Any weapons removed from the Dealers' Room will fall under the above guidelines.

No weapons are allowed in Maxi's Lounge, Seaport Lounge, or Coffee Garden Restaurant.

This policy complies with hotel policy and local, state, and federal laws.

THERE WILL BE NO APPEAL TO ANY VIOLATION OF THESE RULES.

DRINKING

Norwescon encourages responsible consumption of alcohol by persons over 21. As such, Washington State laws concerning alcohol consumption can and will be enforced by police, hotel security, and convention security. Norwescon also requires all parties serving alcohol to check ID.

PARTIES

Guest rooms in Wing 5b and suites will be available for social events. A "social event" is a reception or open house-type event held in a guest room in Wing 5b or a hotel suite. Food and beverages may be served in compliance with hotel, state, and local regulations. Maximum occupancy guidelines will be enforced. Service of alcohol must be in accordance with Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board provisions. A special occasion license or banquet permit must be obtained and posted in the suite. Events that do not qualify for a special license or permit must not serve alcohol. Alcohol service times must be in accordance with state regulations. Complete Social Event guidelines are posted on the Norwescon website.

SMOKING

Washington State law states that smoking is prohibited within a presumptively reasonable minimum distance of 25 feet from entrances, exits, windows that open, and ventilation intakes that serve an enclosed area where smoking is prohibited, so as to ensure that tobacco smoke does not enter the area through entrances, exits, open windows, or other means. Smoking areas at the hotel are clearly marked.

ANIMALS

Only service animals are allowed in Norwescon convention space. Service animals will be issued convention identification at registration. Contact the hotel for their rules about animals in guest rooms and public hotel areas.

FLYERS

Flyers may be posted only on the paper or cloth covered kiosks provided by Norwescon. Check at the Information Table for locations. Do not attach anything to walls, windows, or doors. The hotel and/or the convention staff will remove any flyers found in unauthorized places.

SLEEPING IN HALLS AND STAIRWAYS

One word on this subject:

Don't.

EVENTS

ART IN ACTION

Come see art in action! Art in Action is a very special area where you can interact directly with artists and makers while they work. See the process unfold and ask questions as several artists, working in multiple media, show how they do it. There will also be artists and makers hosting create-an-item events (many for a small fee). Come down and take a look! If you like what you see, original works may be available on a limited basis. Art in Action is located on the first floor of corridor two. The schedule of events will be posted on the wall and in the online Guidebook.

ART SHOW

BAG CHECK: For the safety and protection of the artwork, some personal items may need to be checked at the time of entry into the art show, at the bag check station. These items may include, but are not limited to: all bags, large coats or cloaks, and any large costume accessories that may cause safety concerns.

BIDDING: You can use the kiosk in the art show to generate bid stickers that are tied to your Norwescon account. Then just attach one of the stickers to the bid tag along with the amount of your bid. Remember that a bid is a commitment to buy and you will be held to that commitment should you win. Under no circumstances may you withdraw your bid, so please consider carefully before placing any bids. It is not fair to the artist or other potential bidders if you bid on a piece and then decide you do not want it.

DIRECT SALE: If you purchase a piece at the direct sale price, it belongs to you and will be marked SOLD. For attendees with a full membership, the art must remain on display until Sunday morning. A receipt will be issued at the time of sale and you must present this receipt when picking up your art on Sunday. Attendees with one-day memberships may take their purchases with them at the time of sale. Pick-up times will be provided by the Art Show Director.

AUCTION: Items with four written bids go to the Sunday Auction for voice bidding. This event is a combined Art Show and charity auction.

PRINT SHOP: Many of our artists bring prints of their work. Watch for a sign in an artist's display area advertising if they have prints for sale. Print Shop items may be purchased at any time during the convention. Additionally, many of our music performers have their CDs available for sale in the Art Show Print Shop.

CLOSING CEREMONIES

The last event of the convention each year, closing ceremonies gives us a chance to say "good bye" and "thank you" to our Guests of Honor.

MASQUERADE

Each year the Norwescon Masquerade showcases the works of many of the best costumers in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. The Masquerade is held Saturday night in Grand Ballrooms 2 and 3 and is open to all Norwescon attendees.

If you are interested in participating in the Masquerade, there is still time. Pick up the Masquerade rules and entry form at the Norwescon information table and read them carefully. You must go to ONE of the two Masquerade panels listed in the Pocket Program, as this is where you will get all your questions answered and where you turn in your forms and music.

If you have never seen a masquerade, here are a few tidbits as to what to expect.

Entries are categorized by SKILL DIVISIONS. The divisions are based on the guidelines of the International Costumers Guild (www.costume.org). The divisions are:

RISING STAR is for any contestant 16 years of age or younger who is not part of an adult group. Rising Star costumes must be made by the entrant with no more than a minimum amount of supervisory help. An adult-made costume may not be entered in this category and should instead be entered in the appropriate skill division of the adult or in the children's masquerade.

NOVICE is for any contestant who has not previously won an award for a costume in any masquerade or who has won a maximum of two awards in the Novice division for different

costumes at a world-class convention masquerade, such as Worldcon or Costume Con, or at a regional convention masquerade, such as Norwescon or Westercon.

JOURNEYMAN is for any contestant who has won a maximum of three awards for different costumes in the Journeyman division at a world-class or regional convention masquerade.

MASTER is for any contestant who has won four or more awards for different costumes in the Journeyman or Master division or who has won one or more best in show awards at a regional or world-class convention masquerade. Professional costumers must enter the Master division.

JUDGING FOR THE MASQUERADE has two components: presentation and workmanship.

PRESENTATION JUDGING

Presentation judging evaluates the presentation as it is displayed on stage. It judges the costume's appearance from the audience, how the contestant acts and moves, the effectiveness of the music and voiceovers, and more. The judges give awards that are divided by skill levels and excellence of performance within each skill level.

WORKMANSHIP JUDGING

Workmanship judging is optional. It takes place in the masquerade backstage area before the show begins. It allows the workmanship judges to consider exceptional accomplishment in crafting costumes, props, and accessories. Here, the exquisite attention to detail is recognized.

During the judging process, there is a halftime presentation. During the halftime, there will be an opportunity for taking photos, special announcements, and the announcement of next year's confirmed guests of honor, after which the masquerade awards will be presented. You will miss a lot of great things of you leave early, so please stay until the end and applaud the winners.

ONIONS AND ROSES

Onions and Roses is a panel held immediately following closing ceremonies on Sunday. At this panel, the convention membership provides feedback both positive (roses) and negative (onions) to the Norwescon chair and convention services director.

OPENING CEREMONIES

Opening Ceremonies are held Thursday night of the convention. They are an excellent way to catch a first glimpse of our guests of honor and find out who is on the executive team this year.

PHILIP K. DICK AWARD CEREMONY

The Philip K. (PK) Dick Award is presented annually for distinguished science fiction published in paperback original form in the United States. The Philadelphia Science Fiction Society sponsors the award, and the Northwest Science Fiction Society and Norwescon sponsor the award ceremony. For more information on the award, see: http://www.philipkdickaward.org.

The first time the PK Dick Award was presented at Norwescon was at Norwescon 7 and went to William Gibson for Neuromancer. See your pocket program for the location and time of this year's ceremony.

SINGLE PATTERN CONTEST

The single pattern contest focuses on wearable art pieces created from a preselected pattern. Each year the contest coordinator selects a pattern, which often ties into the convention's theme. The entrants then create their designs prior to the convention. Entrants show their creations at the Single Pattern Contest Fashion Show. In addition to the Judges' Awards, a Fan Favorite Award is given based on votes received from the audience.

If you would like information on entering future Single Pattern Contests watch the Norwescon website or register for the Norwescon eNewsletter.

SERVICES

NORWESCON PROVIDED

CLOAK ROOM

The Cloak Room is located in Wing 7, room 7101. See the Pocket Program or online Guidebook for hours of operation. This is a free service provided by the convention for the use of convention members. The Cloak Room is for temporary storage of parcels, coats, and bags and is not meant as a substitute hotel room, food locker, or storage of medications or medical supplies. Please make other arrangements for these types of items. We reserve the right to refuse any article.

Norwescon is not responsible for items left in the Cloak Room. Use of the room is at your own risk. We suggest that before you place your items in the room, you make certain to understand the hours of operation. A 25¢ charge will be assessed for lost claim tags.

CONVENTION AND SECURITY OFFICES

The nerve centers of the convention are the convention offices. The main Convention Office and the Convention Security Office are both located in Olympic 3. Someone will be available all hours of the day to help iron out any wrinkles you may encounter.

DAILY 'ZINE

Norwescon's official Daily 'Zine contains news of the day from around the con and last minute schedule changes. After 9: 00 am, copies of the 'zine can be found in numerous locations throughout the convention.

GUIDEBOOK

In addition to the pocket program, Norwescon provides access to the information online via Guidebook. Guidebook is user-friendly on iPhones, Android phones, Blackberries, and any other devices that you might use. There is a native app for iPhone and Android and a mobile web app for other devices. Access it via guidebook.com/getit.

INFORMATION TABLE

Information about the convention, the hotel, and the local area can be found at the Information Table, which is located in the convention lobby, across from Registration, and where you may recycle pocket programs. If you have questions after the Information Table closes, please go to the Convention Office or the Security Office in Wing 7.

LOST AND FOUND

The Lost and Found is located in Olympic 3, Convention Security. If you lose something during the convention, check both the convention's Lost and Found and with the hotel. If it does not turn up right away, check back on Sunday afternoon, as sometimes a lost item can take a little while to be discovered and filter in.

Unclaimed articles left in the Cloak Room after 4 p.m. on Sunday will either go into the hotel's lost and found or will go home with Norwescon's Lost and Found manager. Determination of which location items will be placed will depend on their nature - luggage and like items will be placed with the hotel's lost and found, and miscellaneous objects and small items with the Norwescon Lost and Found. Again, please check with both the convention and the hotel lost and found departments for items that you may have misplaced during the convention.

After the convention, inquiries about lost items can be made to or 100 Andover Park W Suite 150-165 Tukwila, WA 98188-2828. Inquiries should also be made with the hotel. Lost items will be kept until July 1 of the convention year. After that date, any unclaimed items will be auctioned at the Volunteer Picnic, with the proceeds going to the Northwest Science Fiction Society (NWSFS).

PEACEBONDING

SEE RULES AND POLICIES: Weapons Policy

TEENS AND TEEN RUNNERS

Norwescon recognizes that the future of convention attendees and volunteering staff will come from the teens currently attending the convention with their parents. In an effort to give you, our younger members, the opportunity to gain firsthand experience and a behind-the-scenes look into the world of conventions, Norwescon implemented the "Teen Runner" program. If you are between the ages of 13 and 17 and are looking for things to do at the convention, stop by Volunteers and try your hand in helping out as a Runner. There are jobs in many areas, such as Registration, Technical Services, Office Service, Volunteers, Masquerade, and Dispatch, which are suitable for teenagers and are vital to the convention.

VOLUNTEERING

Norwescon runs on volunteers, and without them no convention would be possible. As such, everyone is encouraged to volunteer at the convention for a few hours. There are many things that you can volunteer for that allow for attendance at certain events. As a bonus, volunteers who have helped at any time during the con have early entry into the Masquerade, may attend a special event arranged for them, are invited to a post-con party during the summer, may be entered in drawings for special gifts, and receive tokens to show our appreciation. Go to the volunteer table in the convention lobby or the Volunteer Office and sign up for a shift (or two, or three, or four, or five).

The Volunteer Office does not provide babysitting. Minors may volunteer with permission of their parent/guardian/designee but should not be dropped off at the office without a specific purpose. In the event that child care is needed, the DoubleTree by Hilton Seattle Airport has a relationship with Best Sitters, Inc.; for more information on Best Sitters, call them at (206) 682-2556.

HOTEL PROVIDED

HOTEL SHUTTLE

The hotel shuttle can transport you to and from SeaTac International Airport. Check with the Concierge for availability, departure, and return times.

POOL AND HOT TUB

The pool and hot tub are open to hotel guests 24 hours a day and can be accessed with a hotel room key. The pool and hot tub will be closed for scheduled cleaning and maintenance during part of the day. Please read the pool and hot tub rules posted in that area. The rules must be obeyed if we want to keep this area open for the weekend.

INTERNET ACCESS

High speed internet (DSL) access is available in all guest rooms during Norwescon for a fee. Please call the hotel front desk for access.

PARKING

The Hotel has a monitored parking system. There are four entry gates into the hotel parking lot. Tickets are dispensed at each gate, and payment is made as you leave or in one of the marked kiosks in the hotel lobby. Off-site parking is also available nearby.

HOTEL PARKING RATES

• The first car registered to each hotel room is free.

• Any additional cars registered to the same hotel room are charged $8. 00 per day and receive in/out privileges.

• Attendees who drive to the convention but do not stay at the hotel, will be charged $8.00 per 24-hour day with NO in/out privileges.

• Motorcycles are charged the same convention rate of $8.00 per 24-hour day. No special motorcycle parking spaces are available, and a standard parking space must be used.

• If you are pulling a trailer and use more than one space, the parking fee will be based on the number of parking stalls used.

• Handicapped parking stalls are charged the same convention rate of $8. 00 per day.

Parking is always limited at Norwescon. Do not park in fire lanes. Do not park in spaces marked for those with disabilities unless you have a valid handicap permit. Please only park in marked parking spaces. Vehicles parked in unauthorized areas (including those set aside for reserved parking spaces) will be towed. Please park legally and walk the distance rather than parking in unauthorized areas. Many parking lots are available in the area, and some provide transport to and from the airport and hotel.

DOUBLETREE RESTAURANTS AND BARS

Thunderbird Market, open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Offers an expanded menu with breakfast pastries from Alki Bakery and Macrina Bakery in Seattle, house breakfast sandwiches and wraps, cereals, oatmeal, Greek yogurt, fruit, Beecher's cheese, American salami, Seattle Chocolate truffles, and a wide array of dry snacks, chips, and munchies for your eating pleasure. For lunch and dinner, we are proud to serve locally made samosas, gluten-free cupcakes from Bellevue, house-made individual pizzas, a variety of fresh sandwiches, blackened

salmon salad, macaroni and cheese, and a fantastic selection of desserts...but wait, there's more! Featuring a fabulous selection of 22 oz. Northwest micro brews and craft sodas as well a great little selection of Northwest wines in small format. You have to try the blanc de blanc from Treveri in Walla Walla. Celebrate in style! Come and check out what the chefs have created for your taste buds this year.

Fishbowl Grill

Our chefs will be serving up burgers, bratwurst, and chicken and tofu stir fry for lunch from 11: 30 a.m. until 2: 30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Also featuring great Northwest microbrews to keep your thirst quenched and provide you just the right attitude to enjoy the show!

Coffee Garden

The Coffee Garden will be open from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. and offers the same fabulous menu that the chefs have created for Seaports. Chowder, nachos, chicken tenders, salads, sandwiches, Pacific salmon, and even buffalo!

Seaports Open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Come and partake of cocktails, great micro brews on tap, and our fabulous wine list. Seaports will feature draft specials all weekend long, as well as all of your Northwest and comfort food favorites.

Room Service

Room service is available daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. Dial 22 on your hotel room phone to access this hotel service.

New Allergy Procedures

We take food allergies very seriously. So seriously that we created an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) for handling these very special orders. Each allergy order is handled with care as a hand­written ticket is created by the server, delivered to the chef, and accompanies the dish throughout the execution and delivery of the meal. Ask for a red ticket for your meal. You can rest assured that our team will pay very close attention to handling and expediting each and every allergy-sensitive order.

WHAT'S IN THE LOCAL AREA

RESTAURANTS

13 Coins - 18000 International Blvd. (206-243-9500). Five minute walk north of the hotel. Serving up hearty fare 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Denny's - 18623 International Blvd. (206-248-1558). Across the road from the convention hotel. Open 24 hours.

Dave's Diner and Brew - 2825 S 188th St. (206-277-7196). Two minute walk. Classic diner food. Diner open 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Lounge open until midnight.

Jack-In-The-Box - 2840 South 188th (206-244-6293). Across International Blvd. from the convention hotel. Open 24 hours.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue - 18613 International Blvd., Bldg. B-3 (206-432-9646). Across International Blvd. from the convention hotel. The name says it all: Hawaiian style BBQ and other Hawaiian staples. Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. -- 11 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. -- 9 p.m.

Mango Thai Cuisine & Bar -18613 International Blvd (206-243-1888). Across International Blvd. from the convention hotel. Casual, contemporary eatery offering a varied menu of classic Thai dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Monday - Friday 11 a.m. -- 10 p.m.; Saturday - Sunday 12 p.m. -- 10 p.m.

Masae's Teriyaki - 19021 International Blvd. (206-241-6231). South on International Blvd. from the convention hotel, just past the Days Inn. Japanese food. Thursday -- Saturday 11 a.m. -- 9 p.m. Closed Sunday.

Sharp's Roaster & Ale House - 18427 International Blvd. (206-241-5744). Across from the convention hotel. Features rotisserie chicken, baby back ribs, smoked meats, and American food. Dining room open until 10 p.m. The Bent Prop Pub is open until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Subway - 18613 International Blvd. (206-436-8570). In the WallyPark across from the convention hotel. Sandwiches and salads. Thursday - Saturday 8 a.m. -- 12 a.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. -- 12 a.m.

Taco Bell - 18812 International Blvd. (206-243-8171). Across 188th St. from the convention hotel.

Thursday 7 a.m. -- 1 a.m.; Friday - Saturday 7 a.m. -- 2 a.m.; Sunday 7 a.m. -- 1 a.m.

CONVENIENCE STORES

7-Eleven - 20008 Pacific Hwy S. (206-824-3984). South on International Blvd. from the convention hotel, just past the Day's Inn.

7-Eleven - 3120 S 176th St (206-242-4559). North on International Blvd. from the convention hotel and right on 176th St. Near the Hilton.

7-Eleven - 19023 International Blvd. (206-243-8854). South on International Blvd. from the convention hotel.

GROCERY STORES

Costco -- 400 Costco Drive #150 (206-575-9191). Fifteen minute drive east of the convention hotel. Open Monday - Friday 8: 00 a.m. - 8: 30 p.m.; Saturday 9: 30 a.m. - 6: 00 p.m.; Sunday 10: 00 a.m. - 6: 00 p.m. Costco membership required.

Safeway - 4011 S. 164th St. (206-244-2567). Includes a deli, bakery, pharmacy, Starbucks, video, and liquor departments. Open 24 Hours.

Safeway -- 21401 International Blvd. S. (206-824-2737). Includes a deli, bakery, pharmacy, Starbucks, video, and liquor departments. Open 24 Hours.

BANKS AND ATMS

There is an ATM in the hotel lobby. There is a Chase Bank at the north end of the parking lot; it is a full-service bank with an ATM. The Safeway listed above has a Wells Fargo bank and ATM.

TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR CONVENTION EXPERIENCE THE BEST

• Attach your badge to the outside of your outfit. This act saves you from having to fish it out when asked by door guards or convention security.

• Remember to carry your identification (driver's licenses, state identification, etc. ) with you at all times. Identification is required at the hotel bars and room parties. Also, remember to bring money or your credit card; you never know when you will see something you want in the Dealers' Room or the Art Show.

• Note: You may be asked to provide your identification for entry into events and panels labeled "A" for adult or 18+ with ID. Without your ID, you may be refused entry.

• Floor 14 (Maxi's Lounge level) is limited to members 21+ with photo ID from 8: 00 p.m. -- 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday; carry your ID or you might have to make the elevator journey twice.

• Carry the Pocket Program with you so that you know what's happening and where to find it.

• Download the Guidebook app and add Norwescon 40. Every year this app is expanded and now contains more than just the daily schedule. Guidebook is updated regularly during the convention to keep you up-to-date on what is happening or what has changed.

• Highlight the panels you want to attend so that you do not miss them.

• Check out the online schedule and calendar; sync the appropriate one with your smart phone.

• Pick up a Daily 'Zine every morning to learn of any changes to the daily schedule.

• Visit the Convention Lounge for a fannish family reunion. Catch up with old friends and share your fannish interests with new friends.

• Please remember to eat! As noted above, the hotel has several options available at a variety of price points, and there are other food options within walking distance. Due to the hotel's corporate policy changes, Norwescon is only able to offer snacks in our new Convention Lounge, but feel free to bring in your own food while catching up with friends.

• Smile and say "Hi" to the people around you! You never know who is standing next to you. They may be the next big author or artist. Then you can say, "I knew them when..."

• Volunteer. It's a great way to get to know people.