Norwescon 42 Saturday-Sunday Pocket Program

Norwescon 42

The Pocket Program for Saturday and Sunday of Norwescon 42.

Norwescon

April 20-21, 2019

Art by Tran Nguyen

POCKET PROGRAM Saturday & Sunday

NORWESCON FORTY TWO

Welcome to Norwescon 42: Don’t forget your towel

The Forty-second Annual Northwest Regional Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention

Author Guest of Honor — Mary Robinette Kowal

Artist Guest of Honor — Tran Nguyen

Science Guest of Honor — Dan Koboldt

Publisher Guest of Honor — Sub-Terranean Press (Yanni Kuznia)

Special Guest of Honor — Nancy Pearl

Honored Professional — Neil Clarke

Except where noted, contents are copyright ©2019 Norwescon for the contributors.

All opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Science Fiction Northwest, Norwescon, or the Northwest Science Fiction Society.

All pocket program art © Tran Nguyen

Programming

Your pocket program contains all kinds of cool stuff. It has Norwescon’s policy for attendance, including our harassment policy. There are schedules for events, information on those events, services available, maps, and convention hours.

For further information about the convention, go to the Information Table located in the convention space lobby.

The most up-to-date information can be found in the Guidebook app (guidebook. com/getit), as updates are made frequently during the convention. Feel free to download the app on your phone or other mobile device.

Your pocket program and event descriptions are broken up into three books for easier transportation. The first book contains the Member’s Guide, convention hours, and panels and events by subject.

The second book contains Thursday and Friday event programming.

The third book contains Saturday and Sunday event programming.

Hotel Maps

Art Show

Friday 10 a.m. -8 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. -7 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. -2:30 p.m.

Panels

1 Tran Nguyen

2 Sandra Swan

2 Danielle Harada

3 Stephanie Cost

3 Theresa Halbert

4 Julie Dillon

5 Heather Hudson

5 Tammie Dupuis

6 Lee Moyer

7 Heather Gamble

7 Camille Meehan

8 Braden Duncan

8 Josh Foreman

9 Sarah Clemens

10 Rebecca Flaum

10 Bruce Brenneise

11 Rob Carlos

12 Geek Calligraphy

12 Belsac

13 Mark Roland

13 David Lee Pancake

14 Shaughnessy

14 Melissa Mary Duncan

15 Mark Ferrari

16 Betsy Mott

16 Beatrice Pelagatti

17 Talking Dog Art

17 Michael Brugger

18 NightshadeRose Studio

18 L. Pierce Ludke

18 Jo Brown

19 Stanley Morrison

19 John Granacki

19 Soulless Inc

19 Chelsea Santamaria

20 Peter Pan

20 Lauren Blake

20 Goldeen Ogawa

21 Agathon McGeachy

21 Brittany Torres

22 Azhmodai

22 Stevena House

22 Joy Alyssa Day23 John R. Gray III

23 Jasmine Zellmer

23 Jeliza

24 Krister Eide

24 Ingrid Kallick

25 Theresa Mather

25 Meredith Dillman

25 Eden Hopkins

26 LA Wilson

26 Douglas Herring

27 Jeff sturgeion

28 Lizzy D.

28 Ginger Opal

29 Tiffany Dae

30 Zariqueen

30 Miriam Keith-Stanley

30 Eric Vargas

30 MoonDragon

31 Margaret Organ-Kean

31 Tarot of Brass & Steam

32 Andy Vanoverberghe

32 Char Hall

33 Laurie Noel

33 M. Scott Hammond

33 Katie Croonenberghs

East Tables

E Michael Duquett

E Mike Rerick

E Lynne Magie

E Marj

E Keith Amarak Waters

E Asstarte

E Jo Brown

E Peri Charlifu

E Rubiee Tallyn Hayes

North Tables

N T. M. Originals

N Ruth Peterson

N Brigid Nelson

N Jeliza

N My Treehouse Studio

N Sidhefire

N Joy Alyssa Day

N Agathon McGeachy

N David Lee Pancake

N John Granacki, Master of Space and Time

South Tables

S Shaughnessy

S Whimsical Whiskers

S Victoria Shaffer

S Scarlet Rabbit

S DragonPAWs

S Lynne Taylor Fahnestalk

S NightshadeRose Studio

S Michael Brugger

S Chelsea Santamaria

Norwescon raffle!

This year Norwescon is holding our first ever raffle to support our programs and services. Tickets are only $5! You must be 18 years or older to purchase tickets. Look for our floating raffle brigade during some events or stop by the info table.

So far prizes include but are not limited to:

• A personalized reading list from our very own Guest of Honor, librarian Nancy Pearl!

• A Don’t “Panic Kindle” with an Amazon gift card to purchase the complete works of Douglas Adams!

• One overnight stay at the SeaTac Double tree with parking included!

• Tickets to the Norwescon 43 Guest of Honor banquet!

• Full 4-day memberships to Norwescon 43!

• And more!

The winners will be drawn during the half time of the masquerade on Saturday, but you do not need to be present to win.

A Note From the Charities Department:

Did you know that NWC is a 501(c)3 charity? That’s right! Any donations you give might be tax deductible.

Where do your donations go? Some go to Northwest Harvest, some go to our volunteers, and some go back into Norwescon to help us grow and hold conventions for years to come.

What kind of donations are we looking for? Money is always good, and some workplaces (such as Microsoft, Boeing, and others) will match your donations if you report them, so we recommend checking with your employer. But we understand that not everyone has extra money to spare. Volunteering a few hours at the con is a great way to help our community and keep the con functioning.

Your time is also considered a donation. Using Amazon Smile and choosing Norwescon as your charity of choice will get us a little cash from every purchase you make on Amazon. Bringing non-perishable food items to the convention to donate to Northwest Harvest is also greatly welcomed (bins are located in the main lobby area). Finally, donations such as books, art, autographed items like T-shirts and photos, replicas, and even handmade items are amazing and would be welcome as volunteer rewards or used for our Charity Auction. And don’t forget to attend the auction and bid on something! Thank you for your continued support of Norwescon and have a great convention!

SATURDAY PANELS

Lazer Tag/Nerf Free Play 7:30–9 a m. Grand 2

Free play will open with Laser Tag for the first half of the session and switch to Nerf for the last half. Rules for each session will be posted. Underage players must have a parent present to play. Equipment is provided at the play area.

Organized Play - D&D AL and Pathfinder 8 a.m. -10 p.m. Rotunda 1

Dungeons & Dragons Adventurers League and Pathfinder Society will be running games throughout the weekend. Check the games schedule for details.

Saturday Morning Cartoon PJ Party With PBS Kids 8:30–10a.m. Olympic 1

Come for Saturday morning cartoons and color in your jammies. Ease into Saturday with PBS Kids! We’ll have cartoons on and character coloring sheets available.

Danielle Gembala (M), Kari Ann Ramadorai

All-Ages Game Demos 9 a.m. -8 p.m. Salon

All weekend there are dealers and game developers running demos of games in Maxi’s Salon. Come up and see the latest and greatest games and talk to game developers.

All-Ages Scheduled and Open Games 9 a.m. -8 p.m. Maxi’s Ballroom

Come sign up for a game run by our GMs or check out a game from our lending library. We have RPGs, computer games, LARPs, card games, board games, and so much more! Need ADA access for a game? Speak to our staff when you sign up and we will be sure to meet your needs.

Writing Class: Creating Better Characters With Kate Ristau 9:30–11 a.m. Cascade 13

Join an interactive discussion on developing characters in a way that moves the plot forward and makes your story shine. We’ll discuss some easy tips and tricks to help you focus on creating characters with motivations that matter and with authentic needs and desires. Bring your pen and paper. Characters suggested but not required. We can create a few of our own, too. Presented by Willamette Writers. Ages 16+. Space is limited and sign-up is required in Cascade 1.

Kate Ristau (M)

Superhero Yoga 9:30–10a.m. Grand 2

Start off your super day! Gain strength and confidence from power poses, which sometimes correlate to traditional yoga or martial arts, straight from the panels or scenes. Breathe deeply. Relax and loosen those muscles like the hero you are. Go boldly into your Norwescon Friday energized for the day’s activities! Wear comfortable clothes. This is a low-impact physical activity.

Eva L. Elasigue (M)

Biology Still Doesn’t Care What You Believe 10–11 a m. Cascade 5 & 6

The democratic process has no impact on science fact, no matter what you may believe.

Dr. Ricky (M), Jake McKinzie, Alan Andrist

All About Westercon 73 10–11 a m. Cascade 7 & 8

The 73rd Westercon will be held in this hotel on July 2–6, 2020. Come and help us with suggestions on what you would like to see on paneling, events, and other activities during the convention. We are also looking for volunteers, of course.

Sally Woehrle

Want to be an Editor? 10–11 a m. Cascade 9

Where can or do you begin? It’s hard to get an editing position when you don’t have work under your belt. Listen to editors share the details of how they got started and learn some of the pitfalls to avoid.

Chimedum Ohaegbu, Gordon Van Gelder, Cat Flambo, Jasmine Silvera

Story Endings: The Big Finish 10–11 a m. Cascade 10

Who doesn’t love a book with a powerful ending? What must writers do to maximize the impact of their finale? Is a big twist or revelation at the end necessary for a book to feel rewarding? What does “rewarding” mean, and how are endings uniquely responsible for the sensation of "reward? " Is redemption crucial in the final act? Join us and let’s talk about our favorite climaxes!

Peter Orullian (M), Kat/K. R. Richardson, Jack Skillingstead

Real Talk on Tabletop Toxicity 10–11 a m. Cascade 11

Tabletop has a toxicity problem, and it should be discussed openly and honestly. Join our game industry pros for an open discussion on racism, sexism, ableism, transphobia, and homophobia. If you think the tabletop community has none of these issues, you should really come listen with an open mind. Learn how to support marginalized players in your home games, in game stores, and at conventions.

Matthew Moore (M), Gabriel de los Angeles, J. F. High

Choose-Your-Own Adventure! 10–11 a.m. Cascade 12

Audience participation mayhem ensues as our troupe of fearless authors guide you through writing the world’s fastest three-act young adult melodrama. Learn a little something about archetypes, plot devices, and hoisting oneself with ones' own petard along the way.

Lisa Mantchev (M), G. S. (Gabrielle) Prendergast

The Wild, Weird West 10–11 a.m. Evergreen 1 &2

The Weird West has been a sub-cross-genre since the 1970s. Encompassing fantasy, horror, western, steampunk, and mystery genres, it often pulls tropes from across the spectrum to end up in some dusty, sepia-toned, ghost-town places. What is it that draws us to this tumbleweed wasteland? And what follows us back?

Laura Anne Gilman (M), Rhiannon Held, Mark Teppo, K. G. Anderson

So You Want To Be a Futurist 10–11 a.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Futurism is the study of the likely evolution of trends that will play out in the next years, decades or even centuries. It’s become a fast-growing profession. Part data scientist, part analyst, part historian, the futurist looks to quantify trends in science, technology, geopolitics, and culture to determine what comes next. Join our panel of futurists to discover techniques for future analysis and understand the tools that they use.

Brenda Cooper (M), Dr. Seungwhan (Shane) Moon, Kurt Cagle

Autograph Session 1 10–11 a m. Grand 2

Our guests of honor and attending professionals are available to sign autographs. Please note: so that as many fans as possible can participate, we will be enforcing a three-items-at-a-time (or single-sketch) autograph limit.

Nancy Pearl, Yanni Kuznia, Mary Robinette Kowal, Dan Koboldt, Neil Clarke, Tran Nguyen, Carol Berg, Stephen L. Gillett, Pat MacEwen, Lee Moyer, Spencer Ellsworth, Caroline M. Yoachim, Curtis C. Chen, Evan J. Peterson, Julie McGalliard, Scott James Magner, Joseph Brassey, Fonda Lee, Barth Anderson, KJ Kabza, Violet DeVille, Abie Ekenezar, Greg Bear, Ren Cummins, Nisi Shawl, Nancy Kress

Word Art 10–11 a.m. Olympic 1

Cut, paste, and create wearable take-home items with words we find in magazines, newspapers, and random papers around us.

Kari Ann Ramadorai (M)

Workshop - Tactical Warfare Problem 10-noon Olympic 2

Come join our continuing series of "how to think tactically, '' a two-hour problem designed to teach you how to improve your tactical warfighting skills. Taught by experienced warriors. Especially useful in learning how to write battle scenes effectively.

Adrienne Carlson (M), Dr. Mark Bounds, Michael Mammay, Maj. James Franklin (Bet. ), Wendy Wasik

Artemis 10a.m. -7p.m. Rotunda 2

Be the crew, report to the bridge! Artemis is a spaceship bridge simulator where players assume the jobs of captain, helm, science, communication, engineering, and weapon control. Together you operate your ship and defend the sector from evil aliens. Artemis simulates spaceship bridges by networking several computers together and is a social game where several players work together on each bridge. Multiple bridges can participate in cooperative multi-ship missions. Each simulation runs 20–40 minutes. Players can drop in any time. Any group with a crew of four or more people can pre-book a bridge during any open slot.

Reading: Louisa Morgan 10:30–11 am. Cascade 3

The Witch’s Kind. Louisa will be reading from a new novel set on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula in the 1940s. Rated G.

Louisa Morgan (M)

Reading: Barth Anderson 11–11:30a.m. Cascade 3

The Riddle of the Hanged God. A retelling of an Odin myth. Rated PG.

Barth Anderson (M)

Prop Making Contest: Judging 11-noon Cascade 5 & 6

Inspired by The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, please create one of three useful items to assist you in your trek across a galaxy of your choice: a Babel fish, an electronic thumb, or The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Props will be judged on the following criteria: originality, construction, and backstory. Open to all convention attendees, with prizes for top finishers! All contestants get reserved seating during the masquerade. More information is available at:

Cheryl Dyson (M)

The Importance of YA Lit 11 -noon Cascade 7 & 8

It’s been said that young adult fiction is the most important genre in literature because of how much it can impact its group of readers, whose ages range from 12 to 20. We’ll hear from YA authors about expectations placed upon them by their readers, as well as the expectations these writers place on themselves.

Marta Murvosh (M), Fonda Lee, G. S. (Gabrielle) Prendergast, Spencer Ellsworth, Brenna Clarke Gray

Star Trek Discovery 11-noon Cascade 9

Star Trek is back on TV—new tech, new Klingons, new uniforms. We boldly go where no one has gone before... and talk about the new clothes on our favorite sci-fi TV show.

Curtis C. Chen (M), K Tempest Bradford, Sarah Guide, Alexandra Samuel

Grotesque: The Body Horror Panel 11-noon Cascade 10

From Frankenstein to David Cronenberg, body horror is one of horror’s most persistent genres, as well as one of its most controversial. What makes something body horror? Is there a trick to getting it right? Are there lines of grossness do we not want to see crossed? Should we cross them anyway?

Jon Lasser (M), Evan J. Peterson, Eric Morgret

I Love Your Work, I Promise: Support Tips for Busy Geeks 11-noon Cascade 11

We’ve all been there. An artist we like is doing something cool, and we want to support them, but we don’t have the money, the time, or the spoons. How can we still show our support? Come find answers direct from our pros (who are fans too! ). They’ll share tips on ways to show fannish gratitude, even when you’re strapped for resources.

Jonny Nero Action Hero (M), Eva L. Elasigue, Shubzilla, LEX the Lexicon Artist

Worldcon: Pithy Title Here 11-noon Cascade 12

Ever wanted to know more about Worldcon? Confused about how to vote for a favorite location? Want to know more about the Hugo Awards and how to participate? Come to this panel to learn all about Worldcon, the World Science Fiction Society (WSFS), and the Hugos. Also, learn more about the effort to bring Worldcon to Seattle in 2025.

Kathy Bond (M), Helen Montgomery

Writing Class: The Poultry Dilemma: Character or Worldbuilding? with Mark Teppo 11–1 p.m. Cascade 13

Which comes first: character or worldbuilding? In this workshop, Mark Teppo, well-practiced at ignoring warning signs and plunging ahead into the weeds, will deconstruct this riddle and reveal how character and worldbuilding are part of the magic triangle of narrative structure (the third part being “plot”). Tools for shoehorning characters into worlds! Magic tricks for making worldbuilding stick to your characters. Sleight of hand for switching the two while distracting your audience with chicken jokes. Ages 18+. Space is limited, and advance sign-up is required in Cascade 1.

Mark Teppo (M)

New Propellants for New Missions 11-noon Evergreen 1 & 2

The traditional propellants that fueled the first 50 years of spaceflight—kerosene/oxygen, hydrogen/ oxygen, hypergolics, and solids—are being challenged by methane/oxygen, nuclear thermal, and electrical propulsion systems for the more demanding missions of the future. What’s driving this trend?

Dr. Dana Andrews (M), Dan DeLong, Dan Dubrick, Stephen L. Gillett

Teaching Science Fiction 11-noon Evergreen 3 & 4

How does teaching science fiction writing differ from other types of fiction writing? How does teaching science fiction differ from more traditional literary styles? Each panelist will discuss their experience teaching genre fiction.

Nisi Shawl (M), Greg Bear, Elliott Kay, Nancy Kress

Autograph Session 2 11-noon Grand 2

Our guests of honor and attending professionals are available to sign autographs. Please note: so that as many fans as possible can participate, we will be enforcing a three-items-at-a-time (or single-sketch) autograph limit.

Nancy Pearl, Mary Robinette Kowal, Dan Koboldt, Neil Clarke, Tran Nguyen, Yanni Kuznia, Kurt Cagle, Rhiannon Held, Kat/K. R. Richardson, Cat Rambo, Jack Skillingstead, Patrick Swenson, Kay Kenyon, Sienna Saint-Cyr, Peter Orullian, Lisa Mantchev, Louisa Morgan, Brenda Cooper, Laura Anne Gilman, Sandra M. Odell, John (J. A. ) Pitts, Michael Mammay

Family Open House 11-noon Olympic 1

Olympic 1 will be free for play, reading, crafts, and lounge time.

Kate Ristau, Danielle Gembala

Reading: Tod McCoy 11:30-noon Cascade 3

Raschor, The End of Days. A man decides he doesn’t want to take a job as an asteroid miner and gets lost in the underground maze of tunnels, where he runs into a monkey who claims it’s the harbinger of the end of days. Rated PG.

Tod McCoy (M)

Reading: Spencer Ellsworth noon-12:30 p.m. Cascade 3

The Great Faerie Strike. An excerpt from Spencer’s new novel, out this month! Rated G.

Spencer Ellsworth (M)

Single Pattern Contest: Judging noon-1 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Entrants in the Single Pattern Contest must register and present their entries to the panel of judges. Entries are all based on the same pattern, which this year is Simplicity Pattern 8804: Women’s and Men’s Robe and Pants. Entries will be shown to the public in the next hour.

Victoria Shaffer (M), Holly L. Forbis, Kier Salmon, Betty Bigelow

Character Illustration noon-1 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Panelists will discuss the art of creating iconic characters, from costuming and props to colors and poses. Learn how artists create endearing and interesting characters.

Bryan Syme (M), Beatrice Pelagatti, Kadesh Flow, Tricia Diaz

Aquaman—Fish or Fashion? noon-1 p.m. Cascade 9

Aquaman finally got the big screen love, what do you think? Does Atlantean fashion sink or swim? We review the looks from down under the water and rate our favorites.

Richard Stephens (M), Bronwyn, Deborah Strub, Yl’luria, Merdragon Michele

Unlikely Heroes noon-1 p.m. Cascade 10

What do you do when your protagonist is fighting the good fight but doesn’t look like or act how most people consider heroic? Let’s break down alternate origins for heroes, and how to make them shine.

Gabriel de los Angeles (M), Carol Berg, Kay Kenyon, Elliott Kay, Peter Orullian

Best Of the Best noon-1 p.m. Cascade 11

There’s the good, the bad, and the ugly. But what about the amazing, the astonishing, and the beautiful? We’re going to talk about the very best of the best, the cream of the crop when it comes to films in the fantasy, science fiction, and yes, even horror genres. These are the must-sees, so come ready to reminisce over your favorites and discover some new treasures to check out!

Eric Morgret (M), Chris Wiswell, Glenn Dallas, Nick Fraser

Invisible Disabilities noon-1 p.m. Cascade 12

Not every disability is apparent at a glance, nor is anyone’s personal health anyone else’s business. From mental illness to chronic disease, to a variety of syndromes and impairments too lengthy to list, we’ll discuss the difficulties of living with chronic health conditions, the associated stigmas, what progress has (or hasn’t) been made in reforming public perception, and strategies on getting other people to mind their own blasted business.

Jason Vanhee (M), Sandra M. Odell, Cheryce Clayton

Blogger, Min3r, Gamer, Al: Tomorrow’s Jobs noon-1 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

What will your job be in 20:30? Chances are, it doesn’t even exist today. Within the next twelve years, thirty percent of all job categories will go extinct, but a plethora will be created in an increasingly Al-driven world. Maybe you’ll be a drone wrangler, a social media maven, a cyberwarfare soldier, or a cosmetic prosthetist. Explore what the world of work (and not work) will look like in the next ten to fifty years.

Kurt Cagle (M), Alexandra Samuel, Dr. Seungwhan (Shane) Moon

Interview and Q&A with Neil Clarke noon-1 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Come to an interview and Q&A session with our honored professional, and reviewer for this year’s new writers workshop, Neil Clarke.

Neil Clarke, Sienna Saint-Cyr, Barth Anderson

Norse Sword, Shield, & Spear Tactical Combat noon-1:30 p.m. Grand 2

Hands-on combat demo. Groups of 20+ participants, equipped with wooden swords, spears, and shields, will learn & practice basic Norse weapon combat skills in a safe, controlled environment. Experience what it is like to participate in the "Shield Wall. '' Instructors will provide swords, shields, and spears and train participants. The audience will play an important part in the experience.

Bill Gruner (M), Ann Shilling, Agathon McGeachy Norman K. Moss, Maj. James Franklin (Bet. ), Adrienne Carlson, V Whitlock

Creativity Toolbox For Young Writers and Artists noon-1 p.m. Olympic 1

Come to Olympic 1 to join a variety of fun games and activities that will build a toolbox of skills for young creators of all kinds.

Kari Ann Ramadorai (M), Eva L. Elasigue

Basic Embroidery Stitches noon-2 p.m. Olympic 2

Basic embroidery stitches for crazy quilting and silk ribbon embroidery. Stitches covered: stem stitch, blanket stitch, French knot, feather stitch, herringbone stitch, lazy daisy, and bullion stitch if time allows. Kit included; $5 fee to instructor. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1

Brigid Nelson (M), Bethany Roullett

Reading: Laura Anne Gilman 12:30–1 p.m. Cascade 3

Laura reads from her upcoming urban fantasy novel. Rated PG.

Laura Anne Gilman (M)

Reading: Kat/K. R. Richardson 1–1:30 p.m. Cascade 3

To be determined. Rated PG.

Kat/K. R. Richardson (M)

Single Pattern Contest: Show & Share 1–2 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Come and watch as the competitors introduce their entries. Your votes will decide the winner of the Fan Favorite award.

Victoria Shaffer (M)

Who Wants to Live Forever? 1–2 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

As we search for the fountain of youth, what would that mean? How would society survive? Brain in a jar or a 3:30-year-old who looks 30?

Jake McKinzie (M), John Schlick, KJ Kabza

Tops to Tails: Mermaid Costuming 1–2 p.m. Cascade 9

Have you always wanted to swim with the fishes like a real mermaid? This is the panel for you! With this quick run-through style discussion, we’ll cover everything from shell tops and crowns to fabric and silicone tails! Perfect for getting your fins wet in the world of mermaiding, and learning about new options and accessories for more seasoned sirens. No matter what your age, gender, size, or ability, you CAN be part of that world!

Yl’luria (M), Melissa “Merlissa” Thomas, Ellieanna Naiad, Merdragon Michele

Good Omens: Another Look at the Book 1–2 p.m. Cascade 10

With the Good Omens miniseries debuting in 2019, it’s worth taking a second look at the original Neil Gaiman/Terry Pratchett collaboration.

Richard Stephens (M), Julie McGalliard, Jon Lasser

What is SFWA? (Science Fiction Writers of America) 1–2 p.m. Cascade 11

Panelists will discuss the origin and history of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA), what the organization does for professional fantasy and science fiction writers and the genre, how and why to join, and what the organization’s direction will be in coming years.

Cat Flambo (M), Curtis C. Chen, Adam Rakunas, Patrick Hurley

What is Your Story’s Engine? 1–2 p.m. Cascade 12

Your story can be plot-driven, character-driven, or even author-driven in a voice piece or a more poetic work. Learn to recognize what’s driving your story, play to your strengths, and how to keep a balance that keeps your story moving forward.

Fonda Lee (M), Nancy Kress, Louisa Morgan, Caroline M. Yoachim, Jack Skillingstead

Writing Class: Rich Description with Brenda Cooper 1–3 p.m. Cascade 13

This class explores how to look at the world as a writer, and pick the best telling details to make a scene real. There will be in-workshop writing. Ages 10+. Space is limited, and advance sign-up is required in Cascade 1.

Brenda Cooper (M)

Interview and Q&A with Tran Nguyen 1–2 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

Come to an interview and Q&A session with our artist guest of honor, Tran Nguyen.

Lee Moyer (M), Tran Nguyen

Old Space Vs New Space 1–2 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

“New space” companies such as Bigelow, Blue Origin, and SpaceX came out of nowhere and are stealing business from veteran “old space” firms, including Boeing, Lockheed, and Northrup Grumman. At least, that’s the popular narrative. But are the new players really so much better at this game, or are they playing by different rules?

Peter N. Glaskowsky (M), Alan Boyle, Dr. Dana Andrews, Dan DeLong

Storytime Adventures with Kate Ristau 1–1:30p.m. Olympic 1

Come bring your imagination to build a story time adventure with author Kate Ristau and her Storytime Friends.

Kate Ristau (M)

Roman Legionary Gladius and Scutum Tactical Combat 1:30–3p.m. Grand 2

Teams of 20+ participants, each equipped with wooden gladius (sword), and regulation scutum (shield) will learn & practice basic Roman legionary combat skills in a safe, supervised environment. Learn what it is like to be part of the "Roman Line. " Instructors will provide swords, shields, and training. The audience will play an important part in the experience — scenario: Legionaries ‘attacked’ by barbarians.

Maj. James Franklin (Ret.) (M), Norman K. Moss, Agathon McGeachy, Bill Gruner, Adrienne Carlson, V Whitlock

Young Artists Alley Saturday 1:30–2:30 p.m. Olympic 1

Young artists can sign up for space in Olympic 1 to display, make, and sell/swap their art and crafts. Space will be limited and a first-come-first-served basis. Contact Youth Track lead Danielle Gembala for questions and information.

Tricia Diaz (M)

Reading: Nancy Kress 2–2:30 p.m. Cascade 3

“Semper Augustus.” A new novella published by Asimov’s. Rated G.

Nancy Kress (M)

Cleaning & Maintenance of Costumes 2–3 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

How to plan and build your costumes so that they can be cleaned later. Also, the various ways to clean costumes, and taking care of them, and storing them to keep them in their best shape. It is your investment—don’t trust it to just any dry-cleaner. Join our team of experts as they discuss methods for cleaning, storing, and giving your costumes the care they deserve.

Carmen Beaudry (M), Deborah Strub, Torrey Stenmark

“All That Blood Looks Good on You” 2–3 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Some writing prompts are cliche, others inspiring, and some are actually microfiction in disguise. We’ll share some of the best and worst story starters the internet has to offer and discuss their usefulness, then give dramatic readings of the ones that are perfect just the way they are.

Lisa Mantchev (M), G. S. (Gabrielle) Prendergast

Podcasts: Creating Vocal Art for the Internet 2–3 p.m. Cascade 9

So you’ve heard some audio presentations and said to yourself, "Holy hot audiophiles, Batman, I can read better than that! But how do you get into the narration business? What equipment do you need? How do you go about getting assignments? What riches and wonders shall be yours if you dabble in the dark arts of... wait for it... okay, cue the reverb... podcasting. This panel explores EVERYTHING. Industry experts! Tasty samples! Boom! Drop the mic!

Sandra M. Odell (M), Joseph Brassey, Jonny Nero Action Hero

Martial Law 2–3 p.m. Cascade 10

The political and social impact of implementing martial law to control civilian populations. When it works; when it does not. We’ll review the mechanics of establishing, operating, and ending martial law. How and when to incorporate martial law into your story.

Clayton Mann (M), Matt Muenchrath

The New Norwescon Writers Workshop Q&A 2–3 p.m. Cascade 11

Meet the facilitators of the new Norwescon Writers' Workshop. Find out how the workshop works, and ask questions of our moderators.

Sienna Saint-Cyr, Barth Anderson, Carol Berg, Craig Laurance Gidney, Nisi Shawl, Neil Clarke

Just Make It Gay Already! 2–3 p.m. Cascade 12

Join our panelists in a discussion on LGBTQIA+ characters and representation in young adult fandom. We’ll grade them A+ (Steven Universe! ) to F (Dumbledore, we’re looking at you! ).

Kiri S. Callaghan (M), Amelie Mantchev, Julie McGalliard

The Future of Military Aviation 2–3 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

From today’s planning horizon to speculations on the distant future, military aviation experts will lay out the aviation battlespace, technologies, and aerospace/ecosystem/culture. Bring your questions and learn how to write convincingly about military aviation.

Wendy Wasik, Arthur Bozlee, Thom Gilster

Fifty Years After Apollo 11 2–3 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

If you were alive in 1969, you were probably watching. If you weren’t, you might be wondering why everyone keeps talking about it. Come hear our panel explain why the Apollo program was such a big deal.

Mary Robinette Kowal (M), Dr. Dana Andrews, Alan Boyle, Greg Bear, Geoff Nunn

Betsy Tinney in Concert 2–3 p.m. Grand 3

Betsy Tinney is a cello storyteller. Using her cello and an electronic looper, she weaves rich, complex and varied tapestries of sound; her original cello compositions paint pictures and tell tales, from thunderstorms and skeletal mice to dancing elephants and humpback whales.

Dr. Owl (M)

Life Drawing Workshop 2–4 p.m. Olympic 2

Come and learn how to draw the human figure with the help of industry professionals using real live models.

Lee Moyer (M), Douglas Herring

Photo Op with Krampus and Santa!! 2–4 p.m. Registration Lobby

All dressed up in your finest costume? Come memorialize your look for the holidays by having your photo taken with Santa and Krampus. All proceeds benefit Northwest Harvest. Look for our holiday heroes in the photo area in the main lobby.

Reading: Fonda Lee 2:30–3 p.m. Cascade 3

Welcome to the Legion of Six. Fonda Lee reads a new superhero short story and also gives a sneak peek into the soon-to-be-released novel Jade War, sequel to the World Fantasy Award-winning Jade City. Rated PG.

Fonda Lee (M)

Slime Time! 2:30–3:30 p.m. Olympic 1

Who needs more slime? We need more slime! Come join us in Olympic 1 to make slime, play with slime, and learn more about the science of SLIME!

Elizabeth “Liz” Vann-Clark (M), Cindy Fangour, Kari Ann Ramadorai

On the Edge of Forever: Remembering Harlan Ellison 3–4 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Over his 60+ year career, Harlan Ellison specialized in tense, visionary tales and dark comedy. He was also just as notorious for his volcanic temper as he was for his sense of humor. Writers and fans discuss his influence on their work and share some stories about him.

Gordon Van Gelder (M), Berlynn Wohl, Sandra M. Odell, KG. Anderson

Levelling Up at Punching Up 3–4 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Okay, you’re pretty sure you’ve got the basics down, but now let’s join with our panelists as they give examples from their own work and from media of people punching up, as well as plenty of counterexamples of punching down with explanations of why that’s not just problematic, but actively bad.

Jason Vanhee (M), Gabriel de los Angeles, Brenna Clarke Gray

Franken-Patterning 3–4 p.m. Cascade 9

Can’t find the pattern you want? No problem, learn how to adjust, fit, size up, and combine various pattern pieces to get the final pattern you need.

Theresa Halbert (M), Bronwyn, Torrey Stenmark

Start a Small Press, E-zine, or Web Comic 3–4 p.m. Cascade 10

So you want to start a press, e-zine, or webcomic—now what? Join professionals as they share the steps they took and things you may want to consider before diving in headfirst.

Lee Douglass (M), Patrick Swenson, Neil Clarke, Yanni Kuznia

Reading: Ted Butler 3–3:30 p.m. Cascade 3

Randport. A teen naval officer and teen twin girls must prevent a Pearl Harbor event and thwart the bosses of asteroid Randport and Dillon Corporation.

Ted Butler (M)

Military Technology Spinoffs 3–4 p.m. Cascade 11

Weapons research & development has produced many high-impact civilian economic advancements. We’ll review historical examples of war spending facilitating the development of civilian technologies. On a cost­benefit basis, were they worth it? How efficient were they?

Cathy Plesko (M), Wendy Wasik, Dan DeLong

Weird Life on Earth 3–4 p.m. Cascade 12

From the fossil record to modern organisms, some life on earth is weirder than the aliens we imagine. Xenomorph= ichneumonids, human centipede, deep-sea angler fish, what else don’t you know that actually exists outside of your nightmares? Let us enlighten you.

Charlotte Lewis Brown (M), Greg Bear, Pat MacEwen, Coral Moore, DameRuth

Writing Class: Crash Course: Basic Prose with Barth Anderson 3–4:30 p.m. Cascade 13

Prose and composition are crucial elements to master if you want to be a professional writer. We can’t cover everything in one session, of course, but we’ll play grammar games with sentences, examine five types of paragraphs, have some formatting fun, and study the bones of good dialogue. Bring paper and pencil, and strap on your helmets, kids. We’re going in hot! Great for beginners, but a good refresher for pros. Ages 18+. Space is limited, and sign-up is required in Cascade 1.

Barth Anderson (M)

All About the Apollo Exhibit at The Museum of Flight 3–4 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

The Smithsonian Institution’s touring Destination Moon exhibit opens just five days before the con and just eight miles away at Seattle’s Museum of Flight. Come hear a Museum representative describe what’s on display, including Columbia, the actual Apollo 11 command module, and many other artifacts that haven’t left Washington, D. C. since the 1970s.

Geoff Nunn

From Librarians to Information Scientists 3–4 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

It used to be that librarians didn’t get much respect in organizations, especially corporate ones. However, as information management and data analytics increasingly become an integral part of many corporations worldwide, the role of librarians has shifted dramatically. This panel looks at how librarians are increasingly at the forefront of managing the new data-oriented corporate world, and explores what libraries, taxonomists, ontologists, and data scientists do within these organizations.

Nancy Pearl (M), Marta Murvosh, Nick Fraser, Kurt Cagle

Musket & Pike: Killing Men & Horses 3–4 p.m. Grand 2

Learn how professional armies coordinated the use of long pikes, used by Alexander the Great, with personal firearms (muskets). Participants will experience what it is like to wield a pike and maneuver with (dummy) muskets.

Agathon McGeachy, Bill Gruner, Maj. James Franklin (Ret.), Ann Shilling

Megathruster in Concert 3–4 p.m. Grand 3

*MEGATHRUSTER* is two geeks from Oregon, armed with acoustic guitars to bring their special blend of funny nerd rock to the masses. Described as "Tenacious D meets Jonathan Colton, '' the duo has taken their funny and energetic stage show to pop-culture conventions such as Emerald City and Rose City Comic Cons as well as events such as FuMPFest in Chicago and Gen Con in Indianapolis. Their hit, "It’s Rough to Be a Hufflepuff, '' on their debut album, 20 Sided Vice, earned them a Logan Award nomination for best comedy song,

Dr. Owl (M), Chris Waffle

Mermaiding DeTails: FAQ 3–4 p.m. Poolside

For this hands-on, interactive panel we’ll dive into topics like how different monofins and tails perform in the water, what makes the best water-safe costuming, and how best to keep your wig on when you’re fathoms below! From draining and cleaning tails to hot glue and nose plugs, there’s no better place to learn about proper care n' maintenance of a merperson and all their treasures!

Yl’luria (M), Merdragon Michele, Melissa “Merlissa” Thomas, Ellieanna Naiad

Reading: Nisi Shawl 3:30–4 p.m. Cascade 3

“Conversion Therapy.” This is the third in a series of short stories featuring Brit Williams, a young teen with supernatural powers. In this installment, she rescues a queer protege from a camp meant to "cure'' her of her lesbianism. The camp has been taken over by malevolent spirits capitalizing on the nastiness of the original founders. Rated PG.

Nisi Shawl (M)

Reading: Evan J. Peterson 4–4:30 p.m. Cascade 3

“The Husband Suit.” A woman’s loyalty and openness are challenged when her best friend brings home his new husband: a faceless, unnamable monster he met in the Florida Everglades. Rated G.

Evan J. Peterson (M)

Technology at the Gaming Table 4–5 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

iPads, laptops, cell phones, and computers are all popping up at the game table, and apps are being developed to assist with character management and rules tracking. But do these elements hinder immersion into the game and distract more than they help? Our panelists will discuss the pros and cons of using technology during role-playing games and recommend their favorite programs.

Gabriel de los Angeles (M), Bruce P. Cordell, Matthew Moore

Need a Editor? 4–5 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Need an editor? What can you expect? How do you find one that fits within your budget, has a good reputation, and is knowledgeable of your genre?

Cat Flambo (M), Cory Skerry, Rhiannon Held, Jasmine Silvera

Art Directing 4–5 p.m. Cascade 9

What is it? How do you do it? And more importantly, how do you do it well and keep your artists from pulling out their hair?

Bryan Syme (M), Christen N. Sowards, Yanni Kuznia, Sandra Swan

Rules of Engagement 4–5 p.m. Cascade 10

A follow-on from last year’s Basics of ROE panel. How warfighters and commanders make decisions on the legality of the use of force. We’ll review cases ranging from piracy to nuclear targeting: what is “legal” and what is not?

Clayton Mann (M), Michael Mammay Matt Muenchrath

Mommy, Where Do Writers Come From? 4–5 p.m. Cascade 11

Do only MFA recipients get published? What advantages are there to attending workshops like Clarion, Odyssey, or the Norwescon Writers' Workshop? Is it possible to write and publish completely on your own? This panel will explore the options available to new writers and what worked best for panelists.

Craig Laurance Sidney (M), Kat/K. R. Richardson, Caroline M. Yoachim, Jack Skillingstead, Yilin Wang

Dear Teen Me, Norwescon Edition 4–5 p.m. Cascade 12

Most of us probably have a word or two of advice we could have imparted to ourselves back in the day. Come listen to the letters composed by our panelists to their teenaged selves and contribute your own time-machine pearls of wisdom.

Lisa Mantchev (M), Beatrice Pelagatti, Spencer Ellsworth, Cathy Plesko, Laura Anne Gilman, Joseph Brassey, Brenna Clarke Gray, Pen Cummins

MoPOP Science Fiction + Fantasy Short Film Festival, Part 2 4–5 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

Norwescon is proud to present a selection of films from MoPOP’s 2019 Science Fiction + Fantasy Short Film Festival! Enjoy the artistic and imaginative achievements showcased in two programs of both animated and live-action science fiction and fantasy films made by new and upcoming filmmakers.

Mimi Noyes (M)

The Second Century of Aerospace 4–5 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

The Boeing Company is now a century old but is increasingly looking beyond the atmosphere. Space X is a relative newcomer reshaping the space field. What does the next century of human obsession with flight look like?

Dr. Dana Andrews (M), Alan Boyle, Dan Dubrick, Dr. Mark Rounds

Vixy & Tony in Concert 4–5 p.m. Grand 3

Vixy & Tony’s lighthearted folk/rock musical style combines with science fiction and fantasy lyrics to tell engaging and beautiful stories. Their energetic performances can be enjoyed by both sci-fi fans and mainstream music fans alike, earning them the Best Performer Pegasus Award in 2008. Michelle “Vixy” Dockrey and Tony Fabris have joined forces with cellist Betsy Tinney and violinist Sunnie Larsen to form a “four-person duo” with a lush, amazing sound. Their music can be found at VixyAndTony. com.

Dr. Owl (M)

Sketchbook School 4–5 p.m. Olympic 1

Calling young artists! Bring your own sketchbooks or borrow some paper on hand and start keeping your own drawing sketchbook or journal. We will provide several sketching prompts and drawing challenges during this panel to help you begin and build a practice of keeping a sketchbook.

Tricia Diaz (M), Adia

Bead Embroidery Workshop 4–6 p.m. Olympic 2

This 2-hour hands-on workshop will cover the basics of bead embroidery: supplies needed, options for fabric, stabilizers, needles, and thread. In addition, we can discuss where you can use bead embroidery and how to apply it, from costumes to broaches, bags, and quilts. You’ll get hands-on experience with at least 3 different bead embroidery stitches. Worksheet and supplies will be provided. Sign up in Cascade 1.

Theresa Halbert (M), Bethany Roullett, Brigid Nelson

Reading: Carol Berg 4:30–5 p.m. Cascade 3

An Illusion of Thieves. Throughout the independencies of the Costa Drago, sorcerers are condemned by the magic that marks them as descendants of a monster. Romy was once a dangerous man’s courtesan, hiding her dangerous and hated gift. But when she is cast as the scapegoat in a plot to overthrow Cantagna’s Shadow Lord, she convinces her young brother, a professional dualist and most unusual metalsmith, to join in a scheme to foil it. The four plunge into a dangerous intrigue of forgery, aristocratic double-dealing, and an ancient artifact that challenges the world’s oldest myths. Rated G.

Carol Berg (M)

Writing Class: Kids Create Characters with Kate Ristau 4:30–6 p.m. Cascade 13

Join us to create a character you would want to hang out with and write about too! We’ll create our own characters and figure out some tips and tricks on how we can use these characters in our own writing — presented by Willamette Writers. Ages 13–17. Space is limited, and sign-up is required in Cascade 1.

Kate Ristau (M)

Reading: Kay Kenyon 5–5:30 p.m. Cascade 3

Nest of the Monarch. Undercover in Nazi Berlin, Kim Tavistock discovers the secret creation of a company of enforcers with perverted Talents used to compel citizen obedience. As winter and fascism descend on Europe, Kim is swept up in a race to stop a Nazi operation to enslave the continent. Rated G.

Kay Kenyon (M)

Children’s Masquerade Pre-Meeting 5–6 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

If you have a little one that wishes to enter the children’s masquerade, please come to this panel where you will get your little one signed up. We will lead you all down to the masquerade when the time is right. Children go on first to accommodate their early bedtimes.

Kat Marier (M)

Online Presence for Authors 5–6 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

We’ve all heard the warnings, “Be careful what you put online; it’s forever!” Is this really a concern? We’re encouraged to have a heavy online presence, but sometimes it can feel like walking on eggshells. Hear pros share how they balance their fanbase and personal sharing, where it’s gone right and gone wrong.

K Tempest Bradford (M), K. G. Anderson, Cat Rambo, Chimedum Ohaegbu

Create, Don’t Hate 5–6 p.m. Cascade 9

"Be the change you wish to see in the world. '' Nowhere is that more applicable than transformative fandom. Instead of getting angry about other people’s creative decisions, make your own decisions, your own stories, and your own art! Our panel of experts will offer tips and tricks for learning to love building things up rather than tearing them down.

Victoria Shaffer (M), Lee Douglass, Berlynn Wohl, DameRuth

Beginning Conversational “Old Norse” 5–6 p.m. Cascade 1 o

Learn to speak basic words and phrases in Old Norse. How much Old Norse is embedded in modern English? Join Masha LePire, an accomplished Old Norse conversational speaker.

Masha Lepire (M), Maj. James Franklin (Ret.), Alan Andrist

Sci-Fi and Fantasy in Audio Fiction Storytelling 5–6 p.m. Cascade 11

Audio fiction podcasts are an increasingly popular medium that is capturing more and more people’s attention every day. A lot of the stories being told are based in science fiction and fantasy. What is audio fiction? Why does it lend itself so well to speculative fiction? What are some of the highlights of the medium? How can I make my own audio fiction podcast? All this and more will be covered in this talk.

Mary Robinette Kowal (M), Sandra M. Odell, Patrick Hurley

First Page Idol 5–6 p.m. Cascade 12

Feeling brave? Want to see how your first page holds up in a cold read? Send the first page of your manuscript to to have it anonymously read aloud and critiqued by a panel of pros.

Curtis C. Chen (M), Nancy Kress, Tod McCoy, Adam Rakunas

Makers in Space 5–6 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

Rob Hoyt, chief executive officer of Tethers Unlimited in Bothell, Washington, will talk to us about the Prefabricator, a 3D printer and recycling system built by his company and delivered to the International Space Station in late 2018, and the future of in-space manufacturing and assembly.

Rob Hoyt (M)

Interview and Q&A with Nancy Pearl 5–6 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Come to an interview and Q&A session with our special guest of honor, Nancy Pearl.

Marta Murvosh (M), Nancy Pearl

Arts and Crafts Open House: Minecraft Theme 5–6 p.m. Olympic 1

Drop by for Minecraft themed take-home crafts and activities for our young members and their families.

Danielle Gembala, Elizabeth “Liz” Vann-Clark, Kari Ann Ramadorai

Reading: Coral Moore 5:30–6 p.m. Cascade 3

“Most Ais Are Jerks” Dating is tough, even when you’re an Artificial Intelligence. Rated G.

Coral Moore (M)

Reading: Mike Brennan 6–6:30 p.m. Cascade 3

Jenifer and Paul, late of Earth and now in a world of magic and activist gods, battle the minions of an evil empire in a story one reviewer called "Wonder Woman meets Captain Underpants. " Rated PG.

Mike Brennan (M)

#MeToo and Geekdom 6–7 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Hear a discussion on the intersection between geek culture and sexual harassment, assault, and rape. Topics include common occurrences in games, conventions, and our favorite industries, how fans might be complicit in this behavior, and how we can stand up against the problem.

K Tempest Bradford (M), Sienna Saint-Cyr, Brenna Clarke Gray

Working in Games Real Talk 6–7 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

“Working in games is fun! I should start a game company! Freelancing is great!” All of these can be true, but let’s real-world for a moment. Taxes are a thing. Your enthusiasm can/will be turned against you. Many game companies (big and small) pull some real sketchy stuff because you’ll endure it for your dream job. Following your dream doesn’t need to mean being abused. It might also mean keeping your day job.

Bruce R. Cordell (M), Crystal Frasier, Kiva Maginn, Christen N. Sowards

Decolonizing Your Fantasy World 6–7 p.m. Cascade 9

Even when writers are making up worlds from whole cloth, it can be easy to gloss over and/or erase the issues that bring riches to the cultures that we’re creating. There can be ugliness underneath those trade goods and treasures. Narratives in fantasy can carry over remnants of the oppressive structures that began and exist in our contemporary world. What kind of work do we need to do to recognize colonial creep in our fiction, and how do we fight it?

Gabriel de los Angeles (M), Nisi Shawl, Fonda Lee, Yilin Wang

Updated Horror Tropes 6–7 p.m. Cascade 10

Many of our favorite horror tropes have become problematic or stale over the years. How would we like to see these tropes updated for the future?

Cory Skerry (M), Glenn Dallas, Julie McGalliard

Are You Blocked? 6–7 p.m. Cascade 11

Is a writer’s block just laziness? Or is something bigger blocking writers who can’t write? We’ll talk about different kinds of blocks (e. g., emotional blocks, external demands, imposter syndrome, perfectionism) and how panelists have dealt with them. Come share ideas about how to shatter blocks!

Rhiannon Held (M), John (J. A. ) Pitts, Caroline M. Yoachim, Louisa Morgan

Goodbye, Cruel Worlds 6–7 p.m. Cascade 12

Has the long preoccupation with “dystopia” finally ended? Is this why we have one Star Trek series now and another on deck, because we now need the optimism embedded in the Roddenberry universe? Do you think world events change the tastes of genre fans? Should writers be polishing up their utopias if dystopias are falling out of favor?

Scott James Magner (M), Gordon Van Gelder, Joseph Brassey, Ian McDonald

Intro to Licensing 6–7 p.m. Cascade 13

The licensing basics you should know before you get into licensing your intellectual property or obtaining another companies license for your product lines. What is protectable and what aren’t typical deal sheet terms, how to approach licensing, red flags, and more.

Jessica Blair (M)

Crispr Babies: Beggars in... China? 6–7 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

At the end of 2018, a scientist in China announced that he had created the first gene-edited babies. It isn’t a new concept—it’s been a subject within science fiction for decades. Panelists will address questions like what are the pros and cons of editing human embryos? What could go very wrong or very right?

Pat MacEwen (M), Nancy Kress, John Schlick, Dan Koboldt

Reading: Mary Robinette Kowal 6–7 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

The Relentless Moon. The Relentless Moon takes place while the first Mars expedition is underway, as a parallel novel to The Fated Sky. It focuses on Nicole Wargin and Myrtle Lindholm in the lunar colony. You can expect everything from church services to bridge parties, which all become more complicated in low gravity. And then a saboteur strikes.…

Mary Robinette Kowal (M)

Doors Open for Masquerade 6–6:30 p.m. Grand 2 & 3

Come on in and find a seat.

Glitter Tattoo and Face Painting Party 6–7 p.m. Olympic 1

Come in and pick out your very own glitter tattoo. They last for a few days and wash off. We may also have face painting if enough people are available to help

Cindy Fangour (M), Elizabeth “Liz” Vann-Clark

Beginnings of Bookbinding 6–8 p.m. Olympic 2

Let’s delve into the basics of bookbinding: folding, cutting, creating signatures, and putting your text block into a cover. This is a hands-on workshop in which you’ll make a small sample-sized blank book while learning about other non-adhesive based bookbinding techniques. Limited to 20 participants. Sign up in Cascade 1.

SunnyJim Morgan (M)

Masquerade 6:30–8:30 p.m. Grand 2 &3

Join us at the pinnacle event for Saturday evening, the Norwescon 42 Masquerade. Come and watch our fabulous contestants perform for your entertainment. Will your favorites match the judges'? Whether they do or not, we know the show will blow you away. Come and join us as the doors open at 6 p.m., show to start at 6:30. The masquerade will be followed by hall costumes, and awards for the single pattern and props competitions. An announcement of next year’s convention guests of honor and a presentation of the winners of the masquerade will conclude the program.

Sancho (M), Kat Marler

Reading: Sarah & Frances Stewart 6:30–7 p.m. Cascade 3

Vigilant: Through Shadows and Dreams, Book One. On a world as devastated as Scarn, what does it cost to become a hero? Join Eochaid Lenahr as he seeks a place in the Veshian Vigilants and learn the answer. Rated PG.

Sarah & Frances Stewart

Freelance Illustration 7–8 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Why would you do this?! How do you get into it, and what are the skills and techniques you need to make a living at it?

Bryan Syme (M), Beatrice Pelagatti, Kadesh Flow, Christen N. Sowards

Intro to Self-Publishing Your Game 7–8 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Come learn the basics of self-publishing your board/card game, role-playing games, and more from those who’ve been through it and survived.

Matthew Moore (M), Crystal Frasier

What’s Happening in Social Horror 7–8 p.m. Cascade 9

Jordan Peele helped identify and promote this horror genre ("The best and scariest monsters in the world are human beings'') to describe his film Get Out. What’s been happening with social horror since then? What are some issues we’d like to see tackled?

Jon Lasser (M), Craig Laurance Gidney

Using your privilege for good: Intervening and Amplifying Voices 7–8 p.m. Cascade 1 o

How or when do you intervene in situations of harassment or other poor behavior? What are tips on doing so safely? How do you amplify the voices of marginalized communities instead of taking over? How can we all make our communities safer and more inviting for all people to enjoy what fandom has to offer?

Gabriel de los Angeles (M), J. F. High, Tess Wilder

Hook 'Em While They’re Young 7–8 p.m. Cascade 12

Exposure to genre fiction starts with picture books about magic purple crayons and anthropomorphic objects and animals, then continues through middle grade and on through young adult. Come hear our panel of experts discuss how fantasy and science fiction feature heavily in books for young readers and how that story you’ve been trying to write might just be meant for kids.

Marta Murvosh (M), Fonda Lee, G. S. (Gabrielle) Prendergast, Jaime 0. Mayer, Lisa Mantchev

'Tis But a Flesh Wound 7–8 p.m. Cascade 13

How realistic is that injury/death scene? Remember in The Last Action Hero when Arnold comes to the ‘real’ world and is shocked to get hurt? Yeah, that paper-cut hurts!!!!!

Pat MacEwen (M), Cheryce Clayton, Alan Andrist

Beyond Apollo 7–8 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

With planned improvements, Apollo hardware could have delivered twice the payload of the Space Shuttle at 1/50th the price per pound. We’ll show you the original documents and explain why NASA didn’t choose this path forward.

Peter N. Glaskowsky (M), Arthur Bozlee, Dr. Dana Andrews

Reading: Dan Koboldt 7–8 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

The Triangle. Written by Dan Koboldt, Sylvia Spruck Wrigley, and Mindy McGinnis. Since two massive hurricanes hit the Bermuda Triangle region, ships and planes have disappeared, leaving behind a trail of haunting radio transmissions. A covert task force investigates but finds themselves caught in a third hurricane and shipwrecked on an uncharted island. They discover something shocking there—and not just that they aren’t alone on the island. Can they survive long enough to escape the Triangle and tell the world?

Dan Koboldt (M)

Mind Control: What is it Really? 8–9 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

“Tell me Neo, would you even know if you were being controlled?”

Coral Moore, Jake McKinzie

Book Cover Mayhem 8–9 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Book covers are the first thing a customer sees, whether in the bookstore or on their e-reader. They are crucial to the reader picking up your book. Hear pros discuss where covers go wrong and how they can go right.

Sandra Swan (M), Patrick Swenson, Patrick Hurley, Lee Moyer

Broad Universe Rapid Fire Reading 8–10 p.m. Cascade 9

Come and find your new favorite author at this fast-paced reading featuring the excerpts from stories and novels written by members of Broad Universe. As always, we will have chocolate and drawings for books. Broad Universe is a nonprofit organization that accepts members from all genders and has supported women who write, edit, and publish speculative fiction since 2000.

Amanda Cherry, Erin Wilcox, Dawn Vogel, Janka Hobbs, Marta Murvosh, Carol Berg, Jude-Marie Green, J. Tullos Hennig, Debora Godfrey, K. G. Anderson

Constrained Writing: Writing in Hard Mode 8–9 p.m. Cascade 10

Less is more. You’ve heard that before. 'A blank canvas kills ideas." You’ve heard that too. How do constraints stimulate creativity, and what’s what is it like to write under particularly esoteric constraints? Can work made this way stand as something other than a gimmick? Join our panelists as they explore—and demonstrate by example—how writing in Hard Mode stimulates the creative mind.

Kiri S. Callaghan (M), Kadesh Flow, Klopfenpop, LEX the Lexicon Artist

Soul of the Warrior 8–9 p.m. Cascade 12

We’ll look at how different cultures perceive the Warrior: Conqueror, Plunderer, Protector, and the evolution of the warrior’s ethos and place in society, their roles, and self-image. We’ll look at how you can apply this self-awareness to deepen your writing and make it more authentic.

Cheryce Clayton (M), Yilin Wang, Clayton Mann

A Conversation at the Leaky Cauldron 8–9 p.m. Cascade 13

Potter’s Pockets podcast live! A team of teachers from different cities has been podcasting their way through the Harry Potter books. Join them for a live taping as they approach the end of the series, from literary, psychological, and theological perspectives.

Potter’s Pockets (M)

Anime, Anime, Anime! 9–10 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

For all of you who wish you could be at Sakura Con as well as Norwescon, this panel is for you! We’ll be diving into the wonderful world of anime and covering the basics for those of you who are sticking your toes in for the first time, as well as exploring the latest and the greatest for those of you who have been swimming around for a while now.

Mimi Noyes (M), Gabriel de los Angeles, Eva L. Elasigue

Murder Most Magical 9–10 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Genre fiction often combines multiple disciplines, and many fantasy stories are murder mysteries with magic. But creating a successful mystery story inside of a successful fantasy story can be a tricky prospect. What elements of a mystery make for satisfying fantasy? What elements of fantasy make for satisfying mysteries? When the stakes are fantastical, how does that change the approach?

Pat MacEwen (M), Carol Berg, Kat/K. R. Richardson, Nancy Pearl

Home Producing: Not Just Recording Yourself 9–10 p.m. Cascade 10

You’ve recorded your own album for Bandcamp, or to sell on CD, and now your friends want you to help them record THEIR stuff! Which tasks earn you “recording engineer” credit vs. “producer”, what are the pitfalls, and how do you stay friends through the process?

Dara Korra’ti (M), Bill Beats, Klopfenpop, LEX the Lexicon Artist

BDSM 101 9–10 p.m. Cascade 11

Interested in BDSM? Want to find out what it’s all about? What are these limits, boundaries, and play people keep talking about? We will endeavor to answer your questions, or if we can’t, we’ll point you to a resource that can. We will also discuss BDSM etiquette and resources for you to find out more. 18+ WITH ID

Sandra M. Odell (M), Tess Wilder, Kiva Maginn

Anglophile Film Festival 2018 9-midnight Cascade 12

With the passing of Anglicon, the 2018 festival lost its home and the festival had to be postponed. Norwescon has gratuitously allowed the festival to show these films for the first time. These are independent short films of all genres from talented United Kingdom filmmakers. Hosted by Shawn Marier.

Sci-fi B Movie Bingo: Cat-Women of the Moon 9–11 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

Join the Seattle Movie Geeks for the gamification of bad-movie watching as we bring one of our regular events to Norwescon. We’ll be showing a bad movie with accompanying bingo tiles. Mark off your cards and win prizes! Never has playing bingo been this much fun! Don’t worry; knowledge of B-movies isn’t necessary or even helpful to play. Our B-movie is going to be... Cat-Women of the Moon! Astronauts travel to the moon where they discover it is inhabited by attractive young women in umm... well, y’know... slinky black outfits.

Chris Wiswell (M), Nick Fraser

Lazer Tag and Nerf Pajama Party 9 p.m. -2 a m. Grand 2

Laser Tag and Nerf Free Play. Feel free to wear your favorite (public appropriate) pajamas as we battle until the wee hours of the morning (but please wear shoes).

Saturday Night Pan-Galactic Gargle Blaster Dance with DJ TeeeBone 9 p.m. -2 a m. Grand 3

Right after the masquerade come dance the night away with DJ TeeeBone and his collection of top 40 and classic fan favorites!

DJ Teeebone

21+ Scheduled and Open Games 9-midnight Maxi’s Ballroom

Come sign up for a game run by our GMs or check out games from our lending library. We have RPGs, computer games, LARPs, card games, board games, and so much more! Need ADA access for a game? Please speak to our staff when you sign up so we can be sure to meet your needs. 21+ only with photo ID.

All-Ages Scheduled and Open Games 9:30–2 a m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Come sign up for a game run by our GMs or check out a game from our lending library. We have RPGs, computer games, LARPs, card games, board games, and so much more! Need ADA access for a game? Please speak to our staff when you sign up so we can be sure to meet your needs.

Friends of Bill W. 10–11 p.m. Cascade 3

The Elements of Slash 10–11 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Writing adult material is a skill, much the same as writing any other genre, and adult-oriented slash fanfiction is no exception. This panel examines what makes slash good—and fun! —for writers and readers. 18+ only.

Berlynn Wohl (M), Lee Douglass, Elliott Kay, keerawa

Designing Horror Into Your Costumes 10–11 p.m. Cascade 13

Add more scares and tingles to your costume; learn how to creep people out and get them to move away when they see you coming! Discover the elements of horror you can design into your costumes.

Richard Stephens (M), Joy Alyssa Day

SUNDAY PANELS

Adventure Quest 7:30–9 a.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

In Adventure Quest the children and teens become the heroes of an incredibly fun and dynamic quest, working together in a mythical and magical world to overcome interesting challenges, solve mystifying riddles, brainstorm unique solutions to puzzling dilemmas, and swashbuckle with foes. Wielding safe foam Swasher swords, the participants play dueling games and act out challenges in an environment that teaches good sportsmanship, fair-play, and respect for others. Then they exercise their minds as they try to piece together the clues in a coded riddle and follow a map to buried treasure.

Lydia Randall (M)

Organized Play - D&D AL and Pathfinder 8–2 p.m. Rotunda 1

Dungeons & Dragons Adventurers League and Pathfinder Society will be running games throughout the weekend. Check the games schedule for details.

Open Games 8–2 p.m. Rotunda 2

Bring your own games and play in the open game area.

Masquerade Viewing & Debriefing 9–11 a m. Evergreen 1 & 2

Join us to watch a recording of the Masquerade and then have a debriefing of it. Any lost and found items from the backstage area will be available at this panel. Any awards not previously picked up will be here also.

Easter Egg Hunt—Ages 0–2 9–9:30a.m. Olympic 1

Baby and toddler-friendly filled eggs will be placed around the room for our youngest fen and their helpers to find. A sign-up sheet for the participation of children ages newborn to three years old will be available in Olympic 1 until Saturday evening to guarantee space and supplies.

Danielle Gembala, Kari Ann Ramadorai

All-Ages Game Demos 9-noon Salon

All weekend there are dealers and game developers running demos of games in Maxi’s Salon. Come up and see the latest and greatest games and talk to game developers.

All-Ages Scheduled and Open Games 9-noon Maxi’s Ballroom

Come sign up for a game run by our GMs or check out a game from our lending library. We have RPGs, computer games, LARPs, card games, board games, and so much more! Need ADA access for a game? Please speak to our staff when you sign up so we can be sure to meet your needs.

Easter Egg Hunt—Ages 3–5 9:30–10a.m. Olympic 1

Preschooler-appropriate candy and toy-filled eggs will be hidden in the room for kids ages four to six to find with their caregivers. A sign-up sheet for participation will be available in Olympic 1 until Saturday evening to guarantee space and supplies.

Danielle Gembala, Kari Ann Ramadorai

Reading: Berlynn Wohl 10–10:30am. Cascade 3

"Noticed You Were Out. " This short story from Berlynn Wohl’s sci-fi anthology Oh, Earthman! was inspired by a docudrama screened at Norwescon in 2017 about the Maury Island Incident. The story concerns a UFO witness who becomes romantically entangled with the mysterious government agent who warns him to keep quiet about what he saw. Rated R.

Berlynn Wohl (M)

Alien Sex 10–11 a.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Yeah, the visitors are back by popular demand. 'Nuff said.

Pat MacEwen (M), DameRuth

Fandom in Daily Life 10–11 a m. Cascade 7 & 8

Are you weird, geeky, or a total nerd and proud of it? Do you express your fannishness in daily life, or do you tone it down for your day job? Come participate in a discussion and share how you show your fannish colors.

Lee Douglass (M), Brenna Clarke Gray, Jonny Nero Action Hero, Elizabeth “Liz” Vann-Clark

Pen Names - Are They Right for You? 10–11 a m. Cascade 9

There are many reasons for a pen name when it comes to publishing. You may write in multiple genres and need a separation, or it might be that your day job requires a level of anonymity. Learn the reason pen names can help us, hinder us, or might serve a purpose (like placement in a bookstore).

Jasmine Silvera (M), Louisa Morgan, K. G. Anderson, Kat/K. R. Richardson

The Economics Of War 10–11 a m. Cascade 10

From primitive societies to the modern military industrial complex, we’ll explore war’s direct and indirect costs and economic return. When does it pay; when does it not. We’ll examine Sun Tzu, Genghis Khan, Von Clausewitz, and Eisenhower. Finally, we’ll discuss the importance of embedding “guns or butter” trade­offs into your story to make it more authentic and realistic.

Mike Brennan (M), Michael Mammay, Clayton Mann

Best Of the Worst 10–11 a.m. Cascade 11

When it comes to movies, there are bad movies, and then there are BAD movies. We’re going to talk about the real stinkers—not movies that are so bad that they’re good, but movies that are so bad that they’re terrible! Why do people still love these movies? Can you stomach them or are they truly unwatchable? Be ready to hear about some real stinkers!

Nick Fraser (M), Glenn Dallas, Eric Morgret, Chris Wiswell

Genres Without Borders 10–11 a m. Cascade 12

Chinese, Korean, and Spanish sf/f writers are cranking out great material, but the work remains unavailable to many eager American fans—until the work is translated into English, of course. How do translators bring new worlds into new languages? The panel will look at the difficulties of successfully translating foreign genre fiction from the points of view of translators, authors, editors, and publishers.

Neil Clarke (M), Yilin Wang

Writing Class: Writing in Scenes with Nancy Kress 10–11:30 a m. Cascade 13

Is your story dramatic? Not melodramatic, but constructed and written to best capture readers' (and editors') interest? Often the critical difference between salable fiction and the almost-but-not-quite-there manuscript is dramatization—and dramatization, for the fiction writer no less than for the playwright, means constructing successful scenes. This workshop will use a combination of lecture, hand-outs, and brief writing sessions to cover scene construction, effective description within a scene, use of dialogue, different types of scenes, and that eternal problem, exposition. Ages 18+. Space is limited, and sign-up is required in Cascade 1.

Nancy Kress (M)

Historical Influences in Sci-fi and Fantasy Costumes 10–11 a.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Many costumes in sci-fi and fantasy have incorporated elements from historical sources. Join us and learn to recognize these classic lines and uncover new/old sources for creative costuming.

Theresa Halbert (M), Adrienne Carlson, Torrey Stenmark

Easter Egg Hunt over 5 10–10:30 a.m. Olympic 1

Eggs filled with candy and surprises will be hidden in the room for our bigger kids to find. A sign-up sheet for participation will be available in Olympic 1 until Saturday evening to guarantee space and supplies.

Danielle Gembala, Kari Ann Ramadorai

Introduction to Silk-Ribbon Embroidery-Basic Leaves and Roses 10–11:30a.m. Olympic 2

Participants should be familiar with the following basic embroidery stitches: French knots, stem stitch, feather stitch. Students will learn to embroider rosebuds, leaves, and antique roses with silk ribbon. Kits will include precut supplies sufficient to complete a needle book for storing sewing/embroidery needles. $10 fee to instructor. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

Brigid Nelson (M)

Reading: Eva L. Elasigue 10:30–11 a.m. Cascade 3

Bones of Starlight 2: Abyss Surrounding, the newly-released second volume of Bones of Starlight, the fantasy space opera trilogy! When few can cross the growing divide, those who do become the fulcrum in the turn of events. Vedani, the Hirylien Remainder, Kao-Sidhe, and exile Dragons, together exert their concerted resentments upon the Pan-Galactic Imperium, which begins to waver with uncertainty. Chains of connection break and form as critical elements rearrange. Rated PG.

Eva L. Elasigue (M)

Easter Egg Mystery Hunt 10:30–11:30 a.m. Olympic 1

Each youth who signs up will be given a clue that will lead their team to a clutch of eggs hidden somewhere in the con space. A sign-up sheet for participation will be available in Olympic 1 until Saturday evening. Clues will be distributed at the time of the hunt.

Danielle Gembala, Kari Ann Ramadorai

Reading: G. S. (Gabrielle) Prendergast 11–11:30 a.m. Cascade 3

Zero Repeat Forever. What if survival means losing yourself? When an invasion of murderous creatures signals the end of the world, a wayward teenage girl must band together with a dangerous ally if she’s to have a chance at survival in this high-stakes, heart-wrenching story of destruction, hope, and freedom. Rated G.

G. S. (Gabrielle) Prendergast (M)

Living and Working with Horses 11-noon Cascade 5 & 6

There can be a spiritual relationship between individuals and horses. What is it about a horse that can cause it to bond with a person? Horses can provide moments of absolute pleasure and instant terror. Participate in a discussion of equine character.

Ann Shilling (M), Maj. James Franklin (Pet. ), Yanni Kuznia, Adrienne Carlson, Laura Anne Gilman

Impostor Syndrome and Fandom Creativity 11-noon Cascade 7 & 8

Impostor Syndrome - our internalized fear and doubt about our accomplishments - plagues creative people of all varieties, no matter how skilled or successful. Our panelists will discuss how these insecurities manifest and share techniques for how to beat them.

Berlynn Wohl (M), Lee Douglass, Torrey Stenmark

The Shape Of Future Cities 11-noon Cascade 9

Ray Kurzweil is a futurist working with Google and a strong proponent of the Singularity. James Kunstler is a writer who believes that civilization is nearing collapse and the future will look much more like the past. Both are heavily invested in the way that society builds its habitations, from elaborate megalopoli to a move towards an ecotopian future. Our panelists will explore where urban and rural spaces are heading, and whether the future will look more like Blade Runner or Tolkien.

Kurt Cagle (M), Brenda Cooper, Stephen L. Gillett, Dr. Seungwhan (Shane) Moon

Satan Through the Ages 11-noon Cascade 10

From The Witch’s Black Phillip to Sabrina’s Dark Lord, from medieval woodcuts to Milton’s Paradise Lost, and from Robert Johnson to Ozzy Osbourne, we’ve been fascinated by the Devil for a long time and depicted him in a huge variety of ways. What are some of the most interesting ways the character of Satan has been used in horror, and what does our fascination with him say about us?

Mark Teppo (M), Carmen Beaudry, Jon Lasser, Julie McGalliard

Writer AND Publisher - What Were You Thinking? 11-noon Cascade 11

Science fiction writers who are also publishers talk about the different skills of a writer versus a publisher, and why they ended up doing both.

Tod McCoy (M), Eva L. Elasigue, Sienna Saint-Cyr

The Precarious Art of Shipping 11-noon Cascaded

Some relationships are canon, and others belong purely to fandom. John and Sherlock, Hermione and Viktor... half the fun is putting couples together as the author never intended! Learn the do’s and don’ts of shipping, whether you’re a fandom veteran or newbie!

Amelie Mantchev (M), Victoria Shaffer, keerawa

Keith and Alan’s Movie News and Previews—End Game! 11–1 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

This is your second and final chance for the latest previews, news, and rumors from Hollywood. Including, at no additional cost, the famous "why? Why? WHY? ''

Keith Johnson (M), Alan Halfhill

Building a Space Library 11-noon Evergreen 3&4

It can be hard to find good books about space, especially older titles that were never published in quantity or in e-book format. Libraries tend to focus on biographies, introductory texts, and kid-oriented picture books. Technical titles, especially, are painfully expensive. Our panelists will explain how they built their own collections and show off some of their favorite books.

Peter N. Glaskowsky (M), Arthur Bozlee, Dan Dubrick

Reading: Kiri S. Callaghan 11:30-noon Cascade 3

"Are You Sure'' (And Other Lives). Pieces of personality performed poetically and without apology. Rated G.

Kiri S. Callaghan (M)

Writing Class: Writing Your Way Into Your Novel With Cat Rambo 11:30–1:30 p.m. Cascade 13

The process of novel-writing varies greatly, but one thing is always true: a butt must go into a chair, and the words must be written. Come find out how to get past sticking points through a combination of lecture and writing exercises that will help you map out your course for navigating the sea of words and build a daily writing practice that will get you to the end of the book. This workshop is aimed at writers in the early stages of their book. All Ages. Space is limited, and advance sign-up is required in Cascade 1.

Cat Rambo (M)

Norwescon Art & Charity Auction 11:30–1:30 p.m. Grand 2

Norwescon presents a fun-filled opportunity to bid on the hottest and most sought-after art from the Norwescon’s art show. This event also raises money for our longtime supported charity, Northwest Harvest. Hundreds of donated items will be on display before the start of the event. Come early for a good spot to watch and bid from. Doors open at 11:30 and bidding starts at noon.

Reading: Russell Ervin noon-12:30 p.m. Cascade 3

“Emergency Chocolate.” On the way home from a disappointing sales call, I helped a stranger give herself permission to buy a simple pleasure in life—chocolate, which is so much more than it seems, and in the process found the purpose of my day and the way forward. Rated G.

Russell Ervin (M)

Glass Fusing Workshop Part II noon-1 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

If you participated in the glass fusing workshop on Thursday, come pick up your art! We’ll discuss what worked and what didn’t, and how to fix it for next time.

Joy Alyssa Day (M)

My Favorite Fictional Spaceship noon-1 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

From the Enterprise to the Planet Express Ship, we all have one fictional spaceship that we like best. What’s yours? Audience participation is strongly encouraged!

Dan Dubrick (M), Arthur Bozlee, Bill Gruner, Agathon McGeachy

Are You a Good Witch or a Bad Witch? noon-1 p.m. Cascade 9

Witches have traditionally been women society deems untrustworthy and outcasts. But when a corrupt society has a stranglehold on what roles women can play, disreputable outcasts take on whatever illegitimate power they can. The scariness of witches is that those whom society discards might have power others have overlooked and trivialized. Are these charismatic outcasts unlikely heroes resisting corruption, or do they give into it? How do you like your witches?

Evan J. Peterson (M), Louisa Morgan, Kiri S. Callaghan, Julie McGalliard

Board Games 101: Catan to Scythe noon-1 p.m. Cascade 10

Take a dive into board games as we discuss the ins and outs of this fast-growing hobby!

Matthew Moore (M), Sandra M. Odell

Taking Feedback From Editors noon-1 p.m. Cascade 11

Getting a manuscript (even one that’s already sold) back covered in red can be intimidating. What should you change and what might you leave alone? Learn from the pros the best way to approach your editor respectfully and open a dialogue around your edits.

Rhiannon Held (M), Patrick Hurley, Chimedum Ohaegbu, Sienna Saint-Cyr, Laura Anne Gilman

Writing for Anthologies noon-1 p.m. Cascade 12

Anthologies are an excellent opportunity for writers to get their work out to new readers. Where to look for submission opportunities, how to write to a theme, tips on catching the editor’s eye (in a good way), and a what-not-to-do list are some of the things to address.

K. G. Anderson (M), Marta Murvosh, Neil Clarke, Yanni Kuznia

Find Your Instrument noon-1 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Have you ever wondered how people figure out what kind of musical instrument they want to play? Several of our pros will bring their instruments and introduce them to people. This is a hands-on workshop; after an introduction of the instruments, participants will be able to try out various instruments and given brief introductions on how to play them by their owners. This panel is aimed at teens and adults. Kids are welcome but must be of an age and attitude appropriate to handle other peoples' musical instruments!

Dara Korra’ti (M), Klopfenpop, LEX the Lexicon Artist

Doodle Bugs! noon-1 p.m. Olympic 1

We will bring the paint, markers, pens, colored paper swatches, googly eyes, scraps of fabric, etc. so you doodle bugs can create your own doodle monsters. This is a great way to start “just doodling” for those who are reluctant, or afraid, to get started on a project!

Tricia Diaz (M)

Printmaking noon-2 p.m. Olympic 2

Try your hand at the oldest copier technology around: block prints! You’ll get a demonstration of how to make your very own relief print, and then have the opportunity to carve a block, ink it, print it, and see how easy it is to make multiple original pieces of art! Come prepared with either a drawing or some idea of what you would like to make. Limited to 12 participants. A materials fee of $5 will be collected by the instructor.

Mimi Noyes (M), Bronwyn

Reading: Dr. Mark Rounds 12:30–1 p.m. Cascade 3

“Mad as a Rocketeer” is a steampunk piece set in England and near-Earth orbit. Without giving away the plot, there is an attempt to sabotage a flight and a daring rescue attempt. This piece will be published in the Other Worlds anthology coming out (hopefully) in December. Rated G.

Dr. Mark Bounds (M)

Reading: Kurt Cagle 1–1:30 p.m. Cascade 3

"Mermaids Among Us: Rain. " It’s raining in Seattle. A lot. Meteorologist Esme Chandler discovers both that the powerful often will do anything to deny the obvious if it threatens them, and that if it gets wet enough out there one CAN grow gills. Mermaids Among Us is a collection of mermaid-themed stories Kurt has written over the years. Rated PG.

Writing the Mad March Hare 1–2 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Since Edgar Allan Poe and Lewis Carroll, fantastic writing has long turned to madness for subject matter. Do we alienate mentally ill people when we write about differing consciousnesses? How can writers write about mental health without injecting old cliches and insults into the work (like "mad as a March hare'')? What books and movies approach different cognitions with imagination and compassion?

Barth Anderson (M), keerawa, Craig Laurance Gidney, Scott James Magner

Biological Apocalypse 1–2 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

Zombies, Captain Trips, flying piranhas, blah, blah, blah... we know how it will all really end. Would you like to be in on the news?

Pat MacEwen (M), Charlotte Lewis Brown, Nancy Kress

... But It Was Always So Awesome! (Liking Problematic Things) 1–2 p.m. Cascade 9

Suddenly it seems like all the media you loved before is betraying you with sexism, racism, homophobia, and ableism. How do you reconcile your love of a problematic fave? How do you still enjoy media once you’ve become aware of everything that’s wrong with it? Our panelists have been through it and have some tips for you.

Sarah Guide (M), Jasmine Silvera, J. F. High, Jonny Nero Action Hero

Farm Animals of the Ancient and Medieval worlds 1–2 p.m. Cascade 10

Before people grew crops, they domesticated animals. We’ll discuss the origin of these animals from farms around the world. How have they been altered over time?

Alan Andrist (M), Ann Shilling, Maj. James Franklin (Ret.)

MST3K - Past, Present, and Future 1–2 p.m. Cascade 11

How can you save a bad movie? By MSTing it, of course! MST3K has come and gone and come back again, both on television and through their offshoots of Rifftrax and Cinematic Titanic. These are the guys who took the unwatchable and made it not only watchable but hilariously so. Best of all, you can do it too! Let’s talk about the past, present, and future of MST3K as well as how we can make our own awesome movie riffs!

Berlynn Wohl (M), Curtis C. Chen, Chris Wiswell

“On This Special Episode” in YA Lit 1–2 p.m. Cascade 12

When young adult authors address important topics like suicide, addiction, mental health, sexuality, and racial tension, it must be done with respect and skill. Come learn how to include big issues facing today’s teen readers without messing it up or bashing the reader over the head with the After School Special hammer.

Marta Murvosh (M), Jaime O. Mayer, Ren Cummins

“Hangover Detector” Costumes 1–2 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Come to our panel and show off your hangover finest.

Richard Stephens (M), Theresa Halbert

Let’s Create a Character 1–2 p.m. Olympic 1

A hands-on workshop that teaches basic figure drawing and resources for young artists who wish to create their own characters. Participants will leave with handouts on brainstorming resources and a drawing (or a list of drawing prompts they can work from later) of a character they created.

Tricia Diaz (M), Beatrice Pelagatti

Surface Embellishments 2–3 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Trapunto, decorative stitching, quilting, couching trim—so many different ways to add interesting details to fabric using your sewing machine—our panel of experts will demonstrate various techniques you can do at home to take your costuming up to a new level.

Theresa Halbert (M), Bronwyn, Carmen Beaudry

Consensual Non-Monogamy 2–3 p.m. Cascade 7 & 8

What is consensual non-monogamy? Is it polyamory, or swinging, or polygamy, or relationship anarchy? Why would anyone want more than one partner? What important advice is there for starting out? How do you do you minimize hurt feelings? Can you? How do more conservative family members react to these plural relationships? Should you, shouldn’t you? What are the pros and cons?

Kiva Maginn (M), Tess Wilder, keerawa

Deep Time, Deep Space 2–3 p.m. Cascade 9

Forget the next 50 years, what’s going to happen to us in the next 100, 1,000, or 10,000 years? What will the continents look 100 million years from now, and the planet a billion years hence? Are we ready for the collision of the Milky Way and Andromeda 2. 5 billion years down the road, or the explosion of our sun in 4 billion? This panel looks at deep time, from the end of human civilization to the end of the universe itself. It’s the end of the world as we know it, and we feel fine!

Kurt Cagle (M), Dr. Seungwhan (Shane) Moon, Stephen L. Gillett

Infrastructure Disruption 2–3 p.m. Cascade 10

Chaos as a tactic. The Internet of Things (loT) is forcing us to re-evaluate the vulnerability of equipment and systems previously thought to be safe from, and unavailable to, our enemies. How do we harden critical infrastructure—and at what cost? How do we use this in our writing?

Mike Brennan (M), Ken Alexander, Adrienne Carlson, Dr. Mark Bounds

Remembering Douglas Adams: So Long and Thanks for all the Fish 2–3 p.m. Cascade 11

A discussion of the best of Douglas Adams' work. Writers and fans discuss their favorite pieces of Douglas Adams' writing and how it influenced their own writing.

Michael Mammay (M), Glenn Dallas

Surviving A Modern-Day Dystopia 2–3 p.m. Cascade 12

Is this how the Hunger Games started? In this new era of oppression, the up-and-coming generation needs to take command to set things right. Learn the role of teens in the current political climate and what we can do until we’re old enough to cast our votes.

Julie McGalliard, Kiri S. Callaghan

Digital Photography Workshop with Dr. Owl 2–3 p.m. Cascade 13

Dr. Owl will cover the basics of digital camera operation, photographic composition, and pro camera use to make your photography better! Bring your camera (or camera phone) for some hands-on learning.

Dr. Owl (M)

Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Self? 2–3 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Monsters can be seen as the ultimate other, something that subverts or overwrites our humanity. Werewolves, vampires, zombies, ghosts—all were people to start with, but have morphed. What are we exploring when we go where the monster lies? Who is the real monster?

Evan J. Peterson (M), Chimedum Ohaegbu, Kat/K. R. Richardson

Dino Roars 2–2:30 p.m. Olympic 1

Come on down to share what we know about our prehistoric dinosaur friends, learn a dino dance, and roar some dino roars!

Danielle Gembala (M)

Geeky Swap 2:30–4 p.m. Evergreen 1 & 2

Have geeky items cluttering your house? Clean out your closets and trade your stuff to other folks who can provide a forever home! Bring in your comics, costumes, graphic novels, crafting supplies, books, games, and small housewares to swap with other folks in the Norwescon community. Set up a table with the items you no longer want or just come and see what’s available! Items will be available for trade or for free depending on the owner. See the website and posted signage for guidelines. Open to geeks of all types.

Vehicles of Self Expression: Costuming for Wheelchairs, Walkers, and Other Necessary Helpers 3–4 p.m. Cascade 5 & 6

Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, glasses, service dogs, and other helping apparatus don’t need to harsh your mellow when it comes to costuming! Join us for what is sure to be a lively discussion and brainstorming session on what you can do with these necessary items to enhance your costume experience. If you have a wheelchair, you’ve got your very own starship Enterprise!

Carmen Beaudry (M), Richard Stephens

Villains and Mental Health 3–4 p.m. Cascade 9

Being a villain takes a toll, but sometimes the toll makes the villain. From Nellie Oleson to the Joker, see how the role of mental illness and life trauma can shape our villain and save our souls.

Kurt Cagle, Bill Gruner

Subversive Horror 3–4 p.m. Cascade 10

Horror can be seen as conservative, reinforcing the status quo by destroying the monster that represents deviation. But it can also be seen as subversive, celebrating those same monsters, treating them sympathetically, and even turning them into heroes. Our panelists discuss the horror they see as subversive and why.

Evan J. Peterson (M), Jon Lasser, Craig Laurance Gidney, Eric Morgret

'Oumuamua - Alien space probe or just a weird rock? 3–4 p.m. Cascade 11

What exactly was 'Oumuamua, the object that zoomed through the solar system in 2017? Last fall, Harvard researchers analyzed its trajectory and suggested it may have been an alien space probe using a solar sail. It’s still possible, however, that it was just a big rock. Although it’s moving fast enough to escape the sun’s gravity, it hasn’t escaped us yet. Should we chase it down and get a closer look, or would it be safer to let it go?

Stephen L. Gillett (M), Arthur Bozlee, Peter N. Glaskowsky

LARPing Techniques at the Gaming Table 3–4 p.m. Cascade 12

Some role-players like to dress up and run around the woods/castles/university campuses acting out their characters in freeform, often rules-light, situations; others prefer to be in the warm and dry around a table with their bags of dice and rulebooks. Some do both! But how can LARPing techniques help enrich your tabletop game? Join us and find out!

Gabriel de los Angeles (M), J. F. High, Glenn Dallas

Closing Ceremonies 4–5 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

Come send off Norwescon 42’s guests of honor with fanfare. We’ve made it through another year, and we want to celebrate the good times we’ve had.

Rob Stewart (M), Mary Robinette Kowal, Nancy Pearl, Neil Clarke, Tran Nguyen, Yanni Kuznia

Onions & Roses 5–6 p.m. Evergreen 3 & 4

The convention is over. Here’s your chance to weigh in on what went well and what didn’t. Tell us your favorite and least favorite parts of the convention so that we can try to make it better next year. After all, as a member of Norwescon, this is your convention!