Friday Programming

Scheduled Gaming
Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Cascade 11 & 12
The first full day of the con is packed with games! Stop in to see what we've added! There's always more than you find in the book, because game masters pop in and schedule at the last minute! Sit in on demos of new games! Chase ghosts, conquer kingdoms, and win riches! The only way you'll know what you're missing is by coming in! The more games you play the better chance you have at winning a prize!
Kathi Pickett

Open Gaming
Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 a.m. (yes, all–night)
Rotunda 1 & 2
Got an hour before your next session? Stop by open gaming and play for a while. We have plenty of tables for fans to sit down with old friends (or new) and play... no sign-up sheet required. The Rotunda is available for open gaming all weekend on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Pro Roy

Fictional Linguistics
Friday, 9:00 a.m.
Cascade 6
A linguist discusses how to use existing languages as a model for fantasy or alien languages. A fascinating look at how what we say (or don’t) shapes our world and how that principle affects alien tongues.
Jake Ballin(M), Brent Kellmer, John M. Lawler, Kris Millering

Climate Change in the 21st Century
Friday, 9:00 a.m.
Cascade 7
There is more CO2 in the atmosphere now than at any time during the last 650,000 years. Climate alterations are expected to be serious: more intense storms, more pronounced droughts, coastal areas more severely eroded by rising seas. At the high end of the predictions, the world could face abrupt, catastrophic, and irreversible consequences. Is there any chance at all that we can alter people’s behavior enough to slow down global warming? If not, are there engineering solutions to climate change? Can giant space mirrors or salt water sprays realistically solve our problems?
Mary Rosenblum(M), Kurt Cagle, Brenda Cooper, Derek Zumsteg

European High Fashion of the 14th Century
Friday, 9:00 a.m.
Cascade 8
The age of chivalry and grand heraldic display marked a significant shift in fashion from the previous century. Tighter, shorter, and more colorful garments enraged some moralists of day, while others railed against women parading about in masculine attire. Jewels, furs, fine linens, and richly embroidered fabrics; hats, hoods, and sleeves of extravagant length with no purpose other than fashion were reproduced in great detail in manuscript illumination and sculpture. Join us for a survey of the clothing and accessories of this fashionable age and learn how to reproduce them using modern materials.
Anita Taylor(M), Cymbric Early-Smith, Jonnalyhn Wolfcat

Reading: John Alexander
Friday, 10:00 –10:30 a.m.
Cascade 3
I, Bonita, The misadventures of an immortal witch, Rating: PG
John P. Alexander

Artist Koffee Klatch
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Cascade 4
Come spend an hour with some of our fine artists in an informal setting.
Russell D. Campbell, Alan M. Clark, Mark Roland

Space Propulsion Systems
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Cascade 6
While the space shuttle is being retired, its successor is based on the same basic propulsion technology. What advances are in the pipeline, and what will we need to make space travel commonplace? Are there better technologies we could be using?
G. David Nordley(M), Greg Paddock, David Stuart

The Comics Format as a Storytelling Device
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Cascade 7
How does the combination of words, sequential pictures, and art style affect the story being told? Do you need all three to tell a good story? Come take a look at the unique methods only available to the comic format.
Brandon Jerwa(M), Roberta Gregory, Anthony van Winkle

Stuck On The Surface
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Cascade 8
From stencils to embroidery to flowers and feathers, embellishments add dimension and interest to a costume.
Melissa Quinn(M), Katrina Marier, Julie Zetterberg

Drowning in the Gene Pool
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Cascade 9
What are the ethical problems of the Human Genome Project? Are we playing God when we fool around with genes and chromosomes? Can a world of all "perfect" blonde children be far behind? When we can work miracles on the molecular level, will the people in areas we can "correct" be discriminated against? Have we begun a massive eugenics project without knowing it?
Amy Thomson(M), Janet Freeman, Guy Immega, Felicity Shoulders

Let's Make a Movie: Plan It!
Friday, 10:00 a.m. – Noon
Cascade 10
You were there for part 0, right? Quick! Time travel! In part 1, we go over the plan, figure out the gear, work up a story, write the script, plan the shoot, and pretty much anything else we can think of. That's right, from soup to nuts, we're going to make an entire movie here at Norwescon. This is your chance to be a part of the annual fun and learn how to make a movie on a budget so tiny calling it "shoestring" would be an insult to shoestrings. The key to making a movie, of course, is good planning!
Ryan K. Johnson, Edward Martin III, Eric Morgret, Brian D. Oberquell

Origami
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Cascade 13
Your basic course in basic paperfolding. Learn how to make hearts, stars, snowflakes, etc. while getting a solid grounding in the foundations of this craft. We’ll show you how to read the instructions, and how to make a couple of nifty things out of plain old paper.
Jacqualynn D. Duram Nilsson(M), Alma Alexander, A.M. Dellamonica, Jean Johnson, Kevin Radthorne

Playing God, Part I: World Building
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Evergreen 2
A world created in seven days? Yeah, right. Not in the gaming industry. Come hear what our industry professionals have to say about the back-breaking labor involved in shaping the huge backdrop that is a game’s setting.
Clint Ogre Whiteside(M), James Jacobs, Andy Megowan, Anthony Pryor

Fly Me to the Moon: Fleet Workshop
Friday, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Olympic 1
Design and assemble your own private fleet of futuristic paper aircraft. Then join us in the afternoon for intensive test flying and competition.
James Poua

If All the Computers Stopped Working
Friday, 10:00 a.m.
Grand 2
Do you remember a time before cell phones, iPods, and UPC codes? Computers affect just about every aspect of our daily lives now. Many people under the age of 30 do not remember the world before computers. How would your life change? What have we lost in the transition?
Don Glover(M), Michael Ehart, Christopher Konker, Charles F Radley, Vernor Vinge

Reading: Steven Barnes
Friday, 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Cascade 3
The Moon Maze Game, The fourth Dream Park novel, Rating: PG
Steven Barnes

Reading: Alma Alexander
Friday, 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Cascade 3
TBA, Rating: G
Alma Alexander

Urban Fantasy 101: Introduction to the Field
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Cascade 4
What are the seminal works in this field? What should people be reading? Old classics, new roads?
Darragh Metzger(M), Mark Henry

Fandom in Daily Life
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Cascade 5
Weird and/or geeky... and proud of it. Do you express your fannishness in daily life? Come participate in a discussion and share how you show your fannish colors.
Kevin Standlee(M), Joseph Hill, Jonnalyhn Wolfcat

Independent and Small Press Publishing
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Cascade 6
Thinking about starting up a small press? What do you need to know? Where do you find authors and artists? What niche do your books fill? Do you need a million bucks, or will a couple hundred do? How do you get what you publish into stores? Are independent small press projects financially viable in today's market?
Caren Gussoff(M), Jim Finkel, Rosemary Jones, Rose O'Keefe, Mary Robinette Kowal

The Dark Side of Trek
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Cascade 7
From the Mirror Universe, to the Borg, to distorting planets, come look at the dark side of Trek. The side that Starfleet doesn’t want you to see.
Greg Cox(M), Ben Andrews, Leo Roberts, Merrillee Schedin

History of Underwear
Friday, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 9
What did our ancestors wear under their clothing? How unmentionable were unmentionables, really? Find out the difference between stays, corsets, hoops, panniers, bustles, and more as we make a quick trip through the history of underwear.
Carmen Beaudry(M), Tammie L Dupuis, Deborah Strub, Anita Taylor

Tradition vs. Technology
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Cascade 13
As art continues to evolve, has digital media made all other mediums obsolete? Or is there still value to be found in the hand-created object, be it collage, an oil painting, an acrylic painting, or a hand-pulled print?
Rob Carlos(M), Russell D. Campbell, Peggy Foy, Mark Roland, Jeff Sturgeon

Medieval Weaponry for Fun and Profit
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Evergreen 1
An overview (in 50 minutes) of medieval weaponry, in all its fascinating variations. Who would have used them, how, and what kind of damage did they do? Is anyone still making this stuff, and if so, where can I get it?
Christopher Konker(M), Bill Gruner, Rebecca Neason

What is Consciousness?
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Evergreen 2
How does the brain, with its diversely distributed functions, come to arrive at a unified sense of identity? As neuroscientists marvel at the patterns cascading from their high-resolution brain scanners, they are nagged by a mischievous question: who's running the show? Can we speak of a person's brain without, ultimately, speaking of the person? What is human consciousness? If the Singularity does happen, what will machine consciousness look like?
Janet Freeman(M), Daryl Gregory, Jason Henninger, Christian t. L. Mecham, Jack Skillingstead

Wargaming 101
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Evergreen 3 & 4
What is miniatures wargaming? How does one get started? Do you really have to be a good painter? Do games last for hours? What is the difference between skirmish and battle? Is this a good hobby for women? Come learn more about miniatures wargaming, from historical to sci-fi/fantasy and steampunk. Our panelists will explain the attraction to the hobby and what types of games are available for everyone, from newbies to experienced players.
Dylan S.(M), Jason Bulmahn, Chris Pramas

Computer Misconceptions in Science Fiction Literature and Film
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Grand 2
Viruses that take out alien computers, text that flows across the screen, code written in a few keystrokes to do complex tasks. How does the presentation of computers in literature and media affect the expectations of the public?
Ted Butler(M), Cory Doctorow, Brian David Johnson, David Shoemaker

Scavenger Hunt
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Salon
Come participate in the Norwescon Scavenger Hunt! Grab your list, hear the rules, and then run amok through the Con, gathering items as you spot them. The winner will receive a paid membership to next year’s Norwescon!
Sheye Blaze

Reading: Jennifer Brozek
Friday, 11:30 a.m. – Noon
Cascade 3
Grants Pass & In a Gilded Light, Horror/Dark Urban Fantasy, Rating: PG
Jennifer Brozek

Reading: Michael Ehart
Friday, Noon – 12:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
TBA,
Michael Ehart

SF Con or Pop Culture Event?
Friday, Noon
Cascade 4
When does a SF con lose its identity and become a Pop Culture Event? The nature of fandom and its acceptance into the mainstream has changed the nature of conventions. As more and more convention runners subscribe to the “grow huge or die” philosophy, the identity of conventions must change to accommodate it. What is lost in the change? Is the future of Norwescon headed this way?
Kevin Standlee(M), Chris Nilsson, Jesse Simpson

Biology in SF: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Friday, Noon
Cascade 5
What science fiction movies or books handled biology well? Day of the Triffids, The Left Hand of Darkness, Battlestar Galactica: each of these dealt with biology and evolution. What other SF books and films have addressed this subject well and how did they do it?
Miki Garrison(M), John P. Alexander, Annie Morton

Beyond Doctor Who: Other British Sci-fi
Friday, Noon
Cascade 6
Life on Mars, Ashes to Ashes, Blake's 7, and The Survivors. Come find out about other BBC sci-fi shows you may not have heard of.
Ryan K. Johnson(M), Janet Borkowski, Ian McDonald

Another Zombie Panel
Friday, Noon
Cascade 7
There can never be enough discussions about zombies. As the zeitgeist of our generation, we tend to think they shambled their way out of our recent imagination, but this is far from the case. A historical look at the evolution of zombies from the victims of voodoo ritual to Venus radiation, to virus spreaders who stumble and then run, we will poke and prod our way to the philosophical underpinnings that make these brain eaters so compelling.
Ciandi Patry(M), The Reverend En Fuego, Derek M. Koch

Survivor: Pandora
Friday, Noon
Cascade 8
Pandora, Skull Island, Jumanjii – all these fantasy locations had extremely hostile environments that make a reasonable person wonder – could anyone actually survive there? Survival strategies, discussion of arms, gear and more will be discussed.
Andy R. Bunch(M), Robert Grey, Jacqualynn D. Duram Nilsson

Alternative Energy: Its Political Implications
Friday, Noon
Cascade 10
Political and economic issues are inherent in any new source of power or “green energy” being developed. There are social implications as well. What new energy technologies are available, and what are their political, social, and economic consequences?
Mike Brennan(M), Bart Kemper, Eden Robins, Amy Thomson

Steampunk Art
Friday, Noon
Cascade 13
From gadgets to weapons to jewelry, we've all seen fabulous steampunk paraphernalia. But is steampunk only for costumes and cool devices? No, we say! Come meet some artists who represent both arenas to see how they imagine, design, and create these beautiful steampunk works of art!
Diana Vick(M), Myke Amend, Peggy Foy, Tiffany Toland

The Universe is Changing!
Friday, Noon
Evergreen 1
Or rather, our understanding of it is. Are cosmic strings still in? How much of the universe is dark matter? How many planets are there outside our solar system now? Come and discuss the current state of the universe.
G. David Nordley(M), Dr. John G. Cramer, James C. Glass

Build a Better Adventure
Friday, Noon
Evergreen 2
What makes a good adventure? One that players can’t wait to continue; that they spend their off-time thinking about and planning for until they play again? Join our gaming panelists in a discussion of how to design better adventures
Erik Mona(M), Richard Baker, Bruce R. Cordell, James Jacobs

What If the Singularity Does NOT Happen?
Friday, Noon
Evergreen 3 & 4
Vernor Vinge still believes that a Singularity event in the next few decades is likely - that self-accelerating technologies will speed up to the point of so profound a transformation that the other side of it is unknowable. This transformation will be driven by Artificial Intelligences that, once they become self-educating and self-empowering, will soar beyond human capacity with shocking suddenness. But what if it doesn’t happen? Vernor Vinge has come up with three possible scenarios outlining a non-Singularity future. Come hear Vernor talk about A Return to MADness, The Golden Age, and The Wheel of Time.
Vernor Vinge(M), Alan Halfhill

Courage: The Series - A Firefly fan series panel and episode premier.
Friday, Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Grand 3
A two hour panel with the entire cast of the new fan series, Courage, based on Joss Whedon's Firefly universe. Ask the cast questions and get to see special footage followed by an episode premier! Attending cast include: David Townsend (Director), Chris Kimball (Director/Producer), Justin Rister (Creator/Actor), Phil Delorenzo (Actor), Daniel Wolf (Actor), Aimee Binford (Actress), John Branch (Actor), Erica Pomerleau (Actress), and Alyssa Roerenbeck (Actress).
Nathan Crowder

Reading: Carlos Cortes
Friday, 1:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
TBD,
Carlos Cortes

Devising Magical Systems
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
How do you go about devising a magical system in urban fantasy? How fantastical is too fantastical? Do magic missiles work in this genre or is subtlety the key? What do you pick and choose from existing mythology, and how much do you invent yourself?
A.M. Dellamonica, Jim Finkel, Jeanne C. Stein, Saje Williams

Working On Your Craft: Writing as an Evolving Process
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
As with any other art, writing requires practice; and a writer's skill can improve over time. Writers discuss techniques they have learned as they have evolved and ways in which they gained new levels of expertise. How can you tell when you're improving? How can you judge your own progress as a writer?
Cat Rambo(M), Daryl Gregory, Eileen Gunn, Randy Henderson, Jack Skillingstead

101 Songs Every Filker Should Know
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
The list of songs every filker should know changes over time. Come discover some songs you don't know and probably should - and maybe bring a few you know that more people should learn.
Creede Lambard, David Nasset, Sr.

Tomorrow’s World
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
What amazing advances in technology are about to change the way we live? In the works are farmscrapers, cybertecture that integrates technology, multimedia, intelligent systems and user interactivity to create customizable living and working spaces, "nap pods" (sci-fi shaped sleep capsules) at the work place, energy-positive buildings, software almost indistinguishable from reality, portable consoles embedded in sophisticated spectacles, or endlessly variable alternative worlds that demand you press emotional buttons, not plastic ones. We’ll explore the science fiction that’s on its way to becoming a reality.
Kurt Cagle, Guy Immega, David J. Williams

Copyright and You
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
What do you need to know about copyright law to both protect your own work and ensure that you don’t infringe on that of others? What are the best ways to get your art out into the public but protect it from being used without your permission? How do the new copyright extension laws affect artists today? Come to learn the answers to these questions and bring some more of your own.
Spring Schoenhuth, Tiffany Toland

The Latest Board and Card Games
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 9
Board and card games certainly have changed since the early days of Monopoly and Candyland. With the economy a tangled mess, more people are buying board and card games instead of going out on the town. Find out which games are the most popular as well as which ones are worth the time and money investment.
Julie Haehn(M), Jason Bulmahn, Jeremy Holcomb

They're Gonna Put Me in a Spaceship!
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 10
Art Bozlee is in training to fly the XCOR LYNX! Come find out more about this spacecraft program with film, photos, and actual prototype hardware, and see how easy it really could be for the average citizen to become an astronaut.
Arthur Bozlee

Angels and Demons – Costuming the Divine and the Damned
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
How does one dress the armies of Heaven and Hell? Is there more to angelic garb than just a white robe? If dressing a demon, what further options are there than horns and forked tail? Our stellar panel wrestles with these cosmic challenges of how to costume the highest and lowest of celestial soldiers.
Richard Stephens, Garth Stubbs, Diana Vick, Jonnalyhn Wolfcat

Are Vampires Just for Tweens?
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1
Why do people hate Twilight so much when it is getting young girls to geek out and read? Are there other new vampire stories being told these days that are targeted at a more mature audience? Or a better read for the YA audience?
Julie McGalliard(M), Rosemary Jones, Adrian Phoenix, Jaye Wells

Future of Malware?
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Evergreen 2
Malware (viruses, worms, trojans, etc.) is getting more sophisticated and widespread by the day (hour?). What happens when the network is in all our stuff? In our bodies? Just how scared of future malware should we be?
Don Glover(M), Ted Butler, Michael Ehart, Greg Paddock

Interview with John Cramer
Friday, 1:00 p.m.
Evergreen 3 & 4
Dr. John G. Cramer

Gothic Tea Party
Friday, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Presidential Suite
What is a Gothic Tea Party? Don't be left in the dark, stop by and find out.
Jillian Venters

Reading: Spencer Ellsworth
Friday, 1:30 – 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
The Girl Who Was Loved By The Sea, Rating: PG
Spencer Ellsworth

Reading: Ian McDonald
Friday, 2:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
TBD,
Ian McDonald

Amateur Contributions to Space Exploration
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
You don’t have to have a Ph.D. or be a professor to make contributions to astronomy and planetary science! Come and hear about recent discoveries made by amateur astronomers that have excited the scientific community, and learn how you can get involved.
Tanya N. Harrison, David Stuart

Welcome to the Scary World of Horror
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Intro to horror fiction/movies "Horror 101" and/or Horror for non-horror geeks.
Jenna M. Pitman(M), SatyrPhil Brucato, Shannon Flowers

Performance Enhancement
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
Do you want to play in front of others, but are shy about performing in front of crowds? Are you okay with crowds, but just don't know what you're doing? Do you just want some tips? Sign up for this workshop, play a song of your choice, and get feedback and commentary from our panel of experienced performers.
Creede Lambard, S. J. Tucker, Jess Hart, Steve Perry

Gay Characters in Comics
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
Batwoman may be the first gay A-list superhero, but lesser known heroes have been around for a while, along with autobiographical comics. Come take a broad look at gay characters and creators in the industry, and the challenges they face.
Ashley Cook, Spencer Ellsworth

Bones, House, and CSI: Fantasy Masquerading as Reality
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
More and more shows present unrealistic tech in the guise of realism. What does that mean for the everyday understanding of real science and technology? How does this affect our understanding of things such as our legal system? Our panelists discuss the worst offenders and the shows and movies that get it closer to real.
David Boop, A.M. Dellamonica, Miki Garrison

Artists’ Sci-Fi/Fantasy Pictionary
Friday, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 9
The audience comes up with the clues; the artists do their best to draw them! Let the games (and the silliness) begin!
Betty Bigelow(M), Myke Amend, John R. Gray III, Roberta Gregory

Vehicles Of Self Expression: Costuming For Wheelchairs, Walkers And Other Necessary Helpers
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 10
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 idea sketch show on what you can do with these necessary items to enhance your costume experience. If you have a wheel chair, you've got your very own star ship Enterprise!
Richard Stephens(M), Carmen Beaudry, Tammie L Dupuis, Deborah Strub, Garth Stubbs

Medieval Re-Creation and Medieval Re-Enactment Societies.
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
An overview. The SCA, Realm of Chivalry, Medieval Studies & Recreation, Hastings, and others. Their histories and where to find them.
G.Robin Smith, Jonnalyhn Wolfcat

And They Pay Me for This!
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1
There are jobs, careers even, that can satisfy the geekiest of us. Come listen to our panelists talk about what they do to feed their inner nerd and pay the bills.
L.J. Bothell, Janna Silverstein

Rolling With the Dice: Role Playing, Pop Culture, and Philosophy
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Evergreen 2
"Know Thyself. Nothing In Excess." These five words inspired over 2000 years of philosophical development in the West; while similar simple origins also compelled the philosophers of the East. Your panelists are here to argue that similar platitudes can be found in gaming, especially classic table top games such as Dungeons and Dragons, the World of Darkness, and GURPS. Your panelists will explore the various ways in which philosophy permeates gaming and how gaming can, in turn, influence philosophy. No a priori or a posteriori knowledge of philosophy is required, just bring your enquiring mind and a set of dice.
Mike Derheimer, Greg Lotz, Christian t. L. Mecham

Intellectual Property and Creative Commons
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Evergreen 3 & 4
In this fast-changing world, new modes of publishing and production are leading to new ideas about ownership and rights. Creative Commons offers new possibilities and new challenges, but can also open writers up to exploitation. Where is the future of copyright and intellectual property going?
Eileen Gunn(M), Ben Dobyns, Cory Doctorow, Elton Elliott

I Robot
Friday, 2:00 p.m.
Olympic 1
Create fanciful robot paperdolls from a variety of materials
Kim Poua

Lazer Tag
Friday, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Grand 2
The younger players are encouraged to come and play Lazer Tag for our first-ever daytime session. We have equipment for use; it is compatible with the Tiger Lazer Tag system, not the Team Ops system. For those players who are under 18, you must have a parent or guardian present at the arena. Lazer Tag is a live action, NON-CONTACT sport.
Scott Perrin, Elizabeth Fellows

Attack of the Movie Previews!
Friday, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Grand 3
Join us for the latest previews, news, and rumors – the hot topics and the latest trends – out of Hollywood.
Keith Johnson(M), Alan Halfhill

Reading: Daryl Gregory
Friday, 2:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
Becoming Digital, Author's note: the title doesn't mean what you think it means., Rating: PG
Daryl Gregory

Reading: A.M. Dellamonica
Friday, 3:00 – 3: 30 p.m.
Cascade 3
BLUE MAGIC, the sequel to INDIGO SPRINGS, Rating: PG
A.M. Dellamonica

Crossing the Rainbow Bridge to Valhalla
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
Valhalla: home of the fallen heroes and central focal point of Norse Mythology. We review the various concepts and conceits of Valhalla in pre-Christian Scandanavia and what the promise of living in the Halls of Heroes meant to average Norse men.
Jeff Davis, John A. Pitts, Ben Thompson

How to Run a Fest
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Interested in starting a fest or taking over one that has been abandoned? It's harder than it seems. Come discuss the pros and cons of fandom fests and formats, and if you are still interested, some tips and tricks to help you get started.
Cheryl Dyson, Byaghro Esby Gibson

Is Electronic Publishing the Future?
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
With the advent of electronic readers like the Kindle and even iPhones, will all books eventually turn into ebooks? Books are being published on electronic readers along with your music and movies – is it all merging into one multi-media future?
L.J. Bothell, Ben Dobyns, Jim Finkel, Rosemary Jones, Jak Koke

Terraforming 101
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
Can a lifeless planet really be made to support life? How might it be done? Is it practical? How do we know that said planet is indeed “lifeless?” What are the questions that would need to be asked to make that kind of decision?
Bob Crichton, Brent Kellmer, Pat MacEwen, Mickey Phoenix

Personal Heads-Up Display
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
Where’s my personal heads-up-display? Will the “contact lens display” work? What about personal-area networks, smart clothes, etc.? Come discuss the fusion of technology, communications, and clothes.
Chris Nilsson, Greg Paddock, Burt Webb

Did the Revolution of the `60s Succeed?
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 10
The Women’s Movement, the Anti-War Movement, the Civil Rights Movement - all of these were parts of one of the most significant, yet undigested, movements in America. Has there been a lasting effect? What have we learned? Why aren’t there movements like these against the Iraq War?
Gordon Eklund, Julie McGalliard, Amy Thomson

Masquerade Tips
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
How to write a presentation, move on stage, pick your music and generally look like you know what you are doing, even if it's your first time on stage.
Julie Zetterberg(M), Janet Borkowski, Peggy Stewart, Anita Taylor

The Large Hadron Collider
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1
What are we going to learn from the LHC? Note: it’s NOT going to create a black hole and destroy the Earth.
Dr. John G. Cramer, James C. Glass, Corry L. Lee

What is D&D?
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Evergreen 2
D&D has been through a number of editions, each of which has changed the rules and the core setting around it. In the past few years, games like Pathfinder, Castles and Crusades, and Swords & Wizardry have emerged from the OGL to offer their take on traditional, D&D fantasy gaming. What is the core of D&D; and what allows it to remain so popular despite the rise of digital games?
Wolfgang Baur(M), Jason Bulmahn, Bruce R. Cordell, Chris Pramas

Story Hour
Friday, 3:00 p.m.
Olympic 1
Kim Poua

Reading: Brian David Johnson
Friday, 3:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
Nebulous Mechanisms, Dr. Simon Egerton is sent to find out why the robots are going to church. Based on actual research in AI and robotics., Rating: PG
Brian David Johnson

Reading: Jean Johnson
Friday, 4:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
Theirs Not To Reason Why: A Soldier's Duty, Futuristic Military Science Fiction, Rating: PG
Jean Johnson

Writing: The Long and the Short of It
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
Why are some people good at writing novels but not short stories or vice versa? What does it take for an idea to be `novel length?’ Are short stories just like novels only you finish sooner?
Mary Rosenblum(M), Daryl Gregory, Eileen Gunn, Mary Robinette Kowal, Jack Skillingstead

Will the Robots be Our Friends?
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
How will the humanoid robots feel about us when we create them? As robotics and AI technologies mature, we will create beings that will have mobility and intelligence. When will they become sophisticated enough to pose a threat, and what will their attitude be toward their makers?
Brian David Johnson, David Shoemaker, Felicity Shoulders

The Medieval Night Sky - The State of Astronomy in the Middle Ages.
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
How different cultures saw what we call the Big Dipper and other familiar constellations. How different Medieval cultures' cosmology worked.
Cymbric Early-Smith(M), Ben Andrews, Adrian Phoenix

Marty and Doc's Final Ride
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
20 years ago, in 1990, Marty McFly and Doctor Emmet Brown embarked on their final adventures in time travel. Take a look back at Back to the Future III, as well as the other movies in the trilogy. Why has this trilogy stood the test of time? Is time travel truly possible, be it at 88 MPH or not? Perhaps someone may even answer that age old question: what the hell is a gigawatt?
David Boop(M), Shannon Flowers, Jeromie Foulger, Brandon Jerwa

Unusual Fibers (How'd You Get THAT!?)
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 9
How to use items not usually considered as fabric or costume notions as materials for clothing or accessories. Cellophane, Angelline fiber, hot glue and more. This includes the use of an iron and ironing board, and can be done as a hands-on to even make a simple pair of wings or a necklace/brooch.
Jonnalyhn Wolfcat(M), Molly Boone, Katrina Marier, Deborah Strub

Geek Parents
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 10
All 'lol virgin nerd' comments aside, there are a lot of geek/nerd parents in the world, and among the numerous other concerns that face them, they must confront some tough questions only nerds would know. How early should you involve your kids in your geeky activities? When do you start exposing them to fantasy literature and know they will understand the nuances of fiction? How do you balance gaming with child rearing? Are there activities that you both can enjoy that's fun and educational? This will be a very discussion heavy panel, so come in with your ideas!
Michelle Lyons, Kris Millering, Dierdre Phoenix, Steve Savitzky

Face Painting Basics
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
Face paint is a quick way to take a costume from ordinary to FANTASTIC! We can show you the fundamentals to create fun characters, from animals to aliens to whatever your imagination can come up with!
Jacqualynn D. Duram Nilsson

Energy Weapons: A Reality Check
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1
Flash Gordon aside, what are the weapons most likely to be used in the future?
Brent Kellmer, Greg Paddock, David J. Williams

Underwater Ninja Tigers! (or A Friendly Discussion on Monster Design)
Friday, 4:00 p.m.
Evergreen 2
What makes a truly great monster in a game? Our panelists discuss the best of the best in the gaming menagerie (or the worst of the worst, depending on your perspective), with an emphasis on the monsters themselves and not on any particular game systems statistics, and give their expert advice on how to come up with your own creations.
Erik Mona(M), Wolfgang Baur, James Jacobs

Autograph Session #1
Friday, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Evergreen 3 & 4
Alma Alexander, Bethalynne Bajema, Richard Baker, Steven Barnes, Arthur Bozlee, Andy R. Bunch, Alan M. Clark, Greg Cox, Dr. John G. Cramer, Cory Doctorow, Elton Elliott, James C. Glass, Lisa Mantchev, John Jude Palencar, John A. Pitts, Mark Rahner, Leo Roberts, Merrillee Schedin, Jeanne C. Stein, Eric James Stone, Jeff Sturgeon, Vernor Vinge, Jaye Wells, Saje Williams

Alexander James Adams and Tricky Pixie in Concert
Friday, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Grand 3
Alexander James Adams, S. J. Tucker

Reading: Cat Rambo
Friday, 4:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
Queen of the Fireflies, Section from a horror novel, Rating: PG
Cat Rambo

Fly Me to the Moon: Test Flight & Competition
Friday, 4:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Grand 2
Join us in Grand 2 and test the mettle of your fleet against your fellow test pilots'.
James Poua

Reading: Jak Koke
Friday, 5:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
Edge of Chaos, a Forgotten Realms novel, Rating: PG
Jak Koke

Creating Your Voice
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
Plot and character are critical; but voice and point of view can be just as important for crafting an effective work of fiction, and can even suggest interesting new stories. We’ll explore point-of-view, tense, voice, and character choice, and we’ll show how an understanding of these elements can actually create ideas and stories.
Mary Rosenblum(M), Eileen Gunn, Darragh Metzger, Kevin Radthorne, Mary Robinette Kowal

The Natural World
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Despite being set in urban locales, the natural world seems to creep into some urban fantasies quite regularly in the form of fairies, green things, and other aspects of the animalistic side of human nature. Is this just modern, tree-hugging environmentalism or does it speak to something deeper in our psyches?
A.M. Dellamonica, Jim Finkel, Adrian Phoenix

Biological and Scientific Accuracy in Your Art
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
To draw a dragon is one thing. To draw a dragon that not only looks realistic, but in fact could be real, is quite another. Meet with some of our experts in how to make anything that doesn’t currently exist look like the real thing.
John P. Alexander, Russell D. Campbell, Rob Carlos, David W. Ehlert, Tiffany Toland

Webcomics
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
Are they replacing newspaper comics as the preferred daily/weekly comic strip? How does the medium affect the message – or at least the art and storyline? What are some of the challenges and limitations for creating webcomics?
SatyrPhil Brucato, Brandon Jerwa, Anthony van Winkle

Art of the Salon: Hosting the Dark and Decadent
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
Some people claim there is no place for lively conversations and light refreshments in today's online universe of screen names and avatars. Fie, we say! Come and learn how to revive this ritual of human interaction in our increasingly cyber world.
Alexia Roy(M), Delta Hranek, Elisabeth Van Every, Jillian Venters

Floozies, Soiled Doves and Ladies of the Evening: The Oldest Profession in the Old West and What They Wore
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 9
Join us while we explore the myths and truths of prostitution in the American West, and how prostitutes and dance hall girls dressed both in reality and in media portrayals.
Subject matter and reference material may not be suitable for those under age 16.
Carmen Beaudry(M), Janet Borkowski, Wendy Prather, Victoria Shaffer

The First One is Free!
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 10
Casual games are usually free on-line or free to download and try; and are “casual” in that they have extremely simple gameplay, like a puzzle game, that can be played in a web browser or cell phone. And they are addictive. Oh, so addictive… Join our panelists in a discussion of the numerous types of casual games, how they’ve evolved from their humble beginnings, and how they affect the gaming market.
Donna "Danicia" Prior(M), James Ernest, Andy Megowan

What is the Future Made Of?
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
Fullerenes. Buckypaper. Bose-Einstein condensates. Metallic glass. Quasi-crystals. Aerogels. Materials technology is finding strange and wonderful materials with fascinating properties at a rapid pace. What materials are out there, what can they do, and what is on the horizon? A look at materials technology and what it holds for our future.
David Nasset, Sr., G. David Nordley

Language Fossils
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1
Language evolves, leaving a trail of outmoded words and expressions behind it leading back to the past. How does language evolve and why?
John M. Lawler, Kris Millering, David R. Silas

Female Friendly Horror
Friday, 5:00 p.m.
Evergreen 2
Some women are put off by horror films, but there has to be women-friendly horror out there. Join a discussion of the tropes, stereotypes, and archetypal themes that both bring women viewers flocking and turn them off, off, off.
Shannon Flowers(M), Jenna M. Pitman, Lorelei Shannon

Single Pattern Contest Judging
Friday, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Olympic 1
Closed Judging session for the Single Pattern Contest entries. Judges and pre-registered participants only.
Terri "Sprite" Specht(M), Richard Stephens, Garth Stubbs

Poker Tournament Qualifying Round 4
Friday, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Rotunda 2
Do you have a poker face like Worf? Able to bluff like Riker? Know a few Jedi mind tricks to float yourself successfully down the river? Or maybe you're just hoping to pull a Maverick with a royal flush. It's a social tournament; so whatever your skill level, there's a place for you at the table. If you're a beginner and would like some pre-game instruction, please come by a little early. Remember, the first place winner at the final table Saturday night wins a prepaid membership for Norwescon 34!
Mariah Johnson

Reading: Wolf Lahti
Friday, 5:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
WIP: Wolf In Progress, Wolf reads from novels and novellas that aren't finished yet. (Maybe you could give him ideas?), Rating: PG
Wolf Lahti

Reading: John Pitts
Friday, 6:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
Black Blade Blues, Urban Fantasy Novel excerpt, Rating: PG
John A. Pitts

Non-Profits, Fundraising, Grassroots Awareness.
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
"Fundraising is not about asking for money. It's about inspiring people to believe that they can make a difference, then helping them make that difference." WAYYY beyond putting a jar out on a counter or begging from your friends, fundraising is about time, ideas, and energy as well as money. How to encourage, network, respond, and change your thinking, from being on a board to developing a fundraising strategy. Taught by G.Robin Smith, the Washington Ambassador for SOFII (Showcase of Fundraising Innovation and Inspiration www.sofii.org) and the COO for Five Rivers Fundraising (www.FiveRiversFundraising.org) and the new marketing organizer for the SCA, Inc." Useful to teachers, PTA members, concom leaders, and non-profit organizers.
Charles F Radley, Ken Scholes, G.Robin Smith

Alien Religions and Religious Practices
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Avatar gave us a serious look at aboriginal religious practices. We review other noted religious systems in SF/F and compare how they are similar and different.
Spencer Ellsworth, Brent Kellmer, Darragh Metzger

Relationship Woes: Or What Does It Take for a Supernatural Being to Find True Love?
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
Urban fantasy protagonists often have difficult finding true love. Some sustain relationships for a couple of books, but then the relationship withers. Why do you think this is? Is it just easier/more exciting to throw relationship trouble at your characters? Is it that everyone wants to read about that "first blush" of love?
Rhiannon Held, Irene Radford, Mary Rodgers, Jaye Wells

Kaaaaaaate! We Have to Go Baaaaaaack!
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
This is it. The 6th and final season of Lost is coming. It’s been a wild ride; and they really dropped a bombshell last season. How do you think they’ll be able to wrap up all the loose ends of the series without incident? Theories are all we’ve got at this point, so lets hear ‘em!
Chris Nilsson(M), Andy R. Bunch, Judith Herman

Influence of Goth Subculture on Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Mainstream Media
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
The goth aesthetic has moved out of the horror realm and become more prevalent in other genres during the past two decades. Join us for a discussion of how this happened and the impact it's had on media and culture.
Andrew Herington, Delta Hranek, Elisabeth Van Every, Jillian Venters

What Happened to Robots?
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 9
By now we were supposed to have our own robotic servants cleaning our homes and doing all the hard work for us. What is the true state of robotic science and will there ever be humanoid robot companions in our kitchens?
David Boop(M), Janet Freeman, Guy Immega

Polyamory 101
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 10
What is polyamory? Why would anyone want more than one partner? How does everyone interact so eveyone’s needs are met and no one gets hurt? How do more conservative family members react to these plural relationships? Should you, shouldn’t you? What are the pros and cons?
Robert Grey(M), Jake Ballin, Loree Parker

Thrifting Your Way To A Steampunk Wardrobe
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
Where to look, what to look for and how to put it all together for a look that works. From everyday steam to steamy heroine, you can find everything you need if you look.
Victoria Shaffer(M), Janet Borkowski, Joanne Kirley, Wendy Prather, Diana Vick

Best Board Games for a Party
Friday, 6:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1
Tired of breaking out Pictionary, Trivial Pursuit, or, heaven forbid, Twister, at your parties so everyone can play a game together? Have no fear! Our panel of gaming experts can help you find a game for six or more players for your next shindig!
Mike Selinker(M), James Ernest, Jeremy Holcomb

Michael Ehart Book Launch Reception
Friday, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Presidential Suite
Join Michael Ehart for the launch of his new book The Tears of Ishtar! Eat his food and drink his booze as he celebrates the launch of his best fantasy yet. Fantasy legend Michael Moorcock says "It’s a very long time since I read a fantastic tale as good as this!" Dancing girls (and boys) are optional.
Michael Ehart

Reading: Jenna Pitman
Friday, 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
Chosen Dancer, Novel in progress: a young woman, the last queen of an ancient line of exiled rulers, must fight to bring her people into a land of safety., Rating: PG
Jenna M. Pitman

Creede Lambard in concert
Friday, 6:30 – 7:15 p.m.
Evergreen 2
Creede Lambard

Reading: Irene Radford
Friday, 7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
Shadow Dancer, Steampunk about the premiere performance of Giselle, Rating: PG
Irene Radford

Medieval Characters - Women Authors
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
Marjorie Kemp, Christine de Pisan, Marie de France, Hildegard of Bingen, the anchorite Julian of Norwich, etc. Their works and influences on their world and ours. An introduction and overview.
G.Robin Smith(M), Michelle Lyons, Rebecca Neason

The Amazon Princess
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Is Wonder Woman a feminist icon, a stereotype designed by and for men, an archetype, something of each of these, or something beyond? Come and take a fresh look at the most well known and influential superheroine.
Ashley Cook(M), Marcus Evenstar, Shannon Flowers

Star Trek Fans and the Changing of the Guard
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
Most people (or so I am led to believe) love the new Star Trek movie, and a few don't. What does this mean for the future of Star Trek and Trekker/Trekkie fandom? Will Trekkie fandom split or is there room enough for everyone?
Ben Andrews, Christopher Konker, Jesse Simpson

How to Survive the Apocalypse
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
If an asteroid was on a collision course with Earth, what could we do with today’s technology to survive as a species? What are the challenges we would face in implementing them in time? And if we couldn’t destroy the asteroid, could we still survive?
Pat MacEwen(M), David Stuart

Gamers Need Love, Too
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
How to hook up at conventions. Hook-up safety, communications skills, and etiquette. Hey, you respect the GM and your fellow gamers, respect should follow you into the bedroom. How to not be "that creepy person" others avoid.
Loree Parker(M), Peggy Foy, Clint Ogre Whiteside

Aging and Distressing Costumes
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
Ways to make your costumes look old and dirty without rolling in mud.
Diana Vick(M), Joanne Kirley, Ieva Ohaks, Julie Zetterberg

Single Pattern Contest Fashion Show
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1
Fashion Show and Awards Presentation for the Single Pattern Contest. Come and see all the wonderful entries of the Single Pattern Contest, cheer on the contestants, vote for your favorite, and see the presentation of the awards. Along with the judge's awards we'll be presenting the Fan Favorite award and maybe your favorite will win.
Terri "Sprite" Specht(M), Richard Stephens, Garth Stubbs

Lazer Tag
Friday, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Evergreen 3 & 4
Join us for another exciting night of Lazer Tag action. We have equipment for use; it is compatible with the Tiger Lazer Tag system, not the Team Ops system. For those players who are under 18, you must have a parent or guardian present at the arena. Lazer Tag is a live action, NON-CONTACT sport.
Scott Perrin, Elizabeth Fellows

Pre-Masquerade Meeting
Friday, 7:00 p.m.
Olympic 1
To enter the Masquerade you MUST attend either this meeting or the Saturday morning pre-Masquerade meeting. You will receive the important information that you need to know to compete. This year, we are asking for everyone's music by the end of this panel, even if you can't stay for the panel. If you haven't already gotten your Masquerade forms at the Information Table, you can get them here. Please turn in your completed entry forms by the end of this panel (or you can turn your forms in at the Saturday morning panel), but the sooner the better. The hard deadline for both is Saturday morning at 10 a.m. If you have questions about entering, or aren't quite sure you want to, come to the meeting and all your questions will be answered.
Trent Lum

PK Dick Awards
Friday, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Grand 2
William Sadorus(M), Carlos Cortes, Dr. John G. Cramer, Cory Doctorow, Jim Finkel, Daryl Gregory, David Hartwell, Ian McDonald, John Jude Palencar, Vernor Vinge

Tempered Glass in concert
Friday, 7:15 – 8:00 p.m.
Evergreen 2
Callie Hills, Naomi Rivks, Steve Savitsky

Reading: Kal Cobalt
Friday, 7:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
Agrathia's Freedom, A sentient spaceship is rescued by freedom fighters., Rating: R, for spaceship-on-human sexuality.
Kal Cobalt

Reading: Lorelei Shannon
Friday, 8:00– 8:30 p.m.
Cascade 3
Possum Kingdom, Supernatural Southern Gothic, Rating: R
Lorelei Shannon

What is Goth?
Friday, 8:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
Why is denying that you're Goth the most Goth thing you can do? What is up with all you freaks in black anyway? Are you really as spooky as you look?
Bryan Lovely, Alexia Roy, Elisabeth Van Every, Jillian Venters

Fanfic Love, Fanfic Hate
Friday, 8:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Everyone writes down three things they love and three things they hate about fanfiction. Panelists will collect the lists - ranting and praise to follow.
Betty Bigelow

Steampunk Archetypes
Friday, 8:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
How to use the main archetypes to figure out how to dress. Are you an aviator, an explorer, or a mad scientist? What are the archetypes, and what would they wear?
Diana Vick(M), Peggy Foy, Victoria Shaffer

Can Hollywood Leave Joseph Campbell Alone Now?
Friday, 8:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
Somewhere in the ‘70s Hollywood suits discovered Joseph Campbell's theories on the “Hero’s Journey” and it seemed every SF/F movie had a quest formula with certain archetypical characters, which has been repeated for the last 40 years. Is it time to retire this formula or does it still have value and meaning? Is the Hero’s Journey different for men and women? Is the Journey always a quest?
Jesse Simpson(M), David Boop, Andy R. Bunch, Ben Dobyns, Andrew Dolbeck

BDSM 101
Friday, 8:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
Interested in BDSM? Want to find out what it’s all about? What are these “limits,” “boundaries,” and “play” people keep talking about? Come to BDSM 101 and 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., Rating: A (18+ only, ID required)
Mickey Phoenix(M), Matt Bamberger, Clint Ogre Whiteside

“Controlled Accident” Demo
Friday, 8:00– 10:00 p.m.
Cascade 13
Artists Alan M. Clark and Mark Roland will demonstrate a style of painting by which techniques for creating textures, shapes, and contrasts inform the artist of exactly what the subject matter will become and what the final painting will be. Come watch two artists work to ‘discover’ a painting and make it come to life before your very eyes.
Alan M. Clark, Mark Roland

Totally Out-of-This World Pajama Party!
Friday, 8:00 p.m.
Olympic 1
Come decked out in your comfiest jammies and snazziest slippers and spend a couple of hours lounging around, playin' games, and engaging in the odd pillow fight or 2.
LouAnna Valentine

Poker Tournament Qualifying Round 5
Friday, 8:00– 10:00 p.m.
Rotunda 2
Do you have a poker face like Worf? Able to bluff like Riker? It's a social tournament; so whatever your skill level, there's a place for you at the table. With only a limited number of seats at the final table, you will need to win one of the qualifying rounds.
Mariah Johnson

Reading: Jack Skillingstead
Friday, 8:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
TBD, Rating: PG/R
Jack Skillingstead

Friends of Bill W.
Friday, 9:00 p.m.
Cascade 3

Hey, Check out the Sex Scene in My Fantasy
Friday, 9:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
Writers discuss the challenges and rewards of writing sex scenes. What do you need to construct believable sex scenes? How can you tell when they are a necessary addition to the plot? Is it O.K. to just be hot? How explicit do you need to be to best serve your story? Examples may be read aloud, so use your judgment if you are easily embarrassed.
Greg Cox(M), Jim Finkel, Mark Henry, Joshua Palmatier, Eden Robins

Philosophy and the Undead 101: Philosophical Zombies Think, Therefore Brains!
Friday, 9:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Coming back like the proverbial cat, this year's "Philosophy of the Undead" panelists will continue their explorations down the dark alleys and graveyards of mind and matter. Join them as they link the walking dead of pop culture to the philosophies of Socrates, Augustine, Heidegger, and more. No background in philosophy required; the freshly unearthed are more than welcome to join us as we explore the epistemological, ethical, and metaphysical ramifications that our living impaired peers present to us.
Christian t. L. Mecham(M), Mike Derheimer, Greg Lotz, Sonia Orin Lyris, Ciandi Patry

Gender Queers in Urban Fantasy
Friday, 9:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
Where are the novels that discard the gender binary in this genre? Where are the drag queens and other gender queers?
K.C. Ball(M), A.M. Dellamonica, John A. Pitts

Alien Sex
Friday, 9:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
How might alien reproductive biology work? What are the questions you need to ask to “flesh” out a believable reproductive strategy? Come discuss how this might work and what resources for research are “out there.”
Jake Ballin(M), Annie Morton, Amy Thomson

Steampunk Gaming
Friday, 9:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
With the arrival of more steampunk than ever in games, what makes this genre tick? What can players and game masters expect? What companies are supporting steampunk with rules, adventures, and settings? Our panel has a very genteel and civilized round of fisticuffs about the "new" style in games.
Julie Haehn(M), Wolfgang Baur, Donna "Danicia" Prior

Match Game
Friday, 9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Cascade 9 & 10
Get ready to match the stars! In this SF/F-themed version of the classic Match Game game show, contestants will be randomly selected from the audience to compete in guessing how our panel will complete fill-in-the-blank questions such as 'Captain Kirk has the biggest ____ in Starfleet!' Prizes include book packages worth more than $100, gift certificates to selected Norwescon dealers, and a membership to next year's Norwescon. All contestants will also receive “Lovely Parting Gifts."
Lisa Hayes(M), Andrew Dolbeck, Christopher Konker, Spring Schoenhuth, David Shoemaker, Kevin Standlee

Fannish Fetish Fashion Show
Friday, 9:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Evergreen 1 & 2 (18+)
We want… Flesh! Flesh for fantasy.
Surrender your flesh to your fantasies of delicious latex and lustful corsets. The Fannish Fetish Fashion Show is at it again! This year there is magic in the air, mystery around the corner, Tempting Tarts Burlesque and a few surprises hidden up our sleeves (or is that tucked away snug under that bustier?). You know you want to take a peek... Rating: ADULT
Laurie Reynolds, emcee: Caren G.

Costumers Stitch & Bitch
Friday, 9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Olympic 1
The traditional Friday night stitch & bitch.
Wendy Prather, Terri "Sprite" Specht

Stardance
Friday, 9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Grand 2 & 3
Come on down to Bartertown, that outpost of civilization on the edge of the apocalypse. Leave your weapons behind and be careful not to pick a fight or you might find yourself facing death in the Thunderdome! DJ's Girly Girl and Black Maru play music to accompany the end of the world as we know it.
Todd Clark(M), DJ Girly Girl, DJ Black Maru

Reading: Jaye Wells
Friday, 10:00 –10:30 a.m.
Cascade 3
The Mage in Black, urban fantasy, Rating: PG/R
Jaye Wells

Zombies: How Do They Happen?
Friday, 10:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
What makes a zombie? Viruses scare us now, but is that what creates a zombie? Come discuss all the possible origins of this loathesome creature, from the historical to the supernatural.
Derek M. Koch(M), Julie McGalliard, Mark Rahner

Home Recording I
Friday, 10:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
Everybody wants to make a demo. What can you do with what you've got? If that won't do - and it probably won't - what do you really need to create a good demo? How little can you get away with; or, if you have even a small budget, what can you do to turn a spare bedroom into decent recording space?
Alexander James Adams, Michelle Dockrey, Tony Fabris

Vampire World-Building
Friday, 10:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
Vampires in a Charlaine Harris' book can’t handle daylight. Stephanie Myers’ vampires can. It all depends on the writer who creates the rules. Are there any universal vampire rules that writers must follow? Writers discuss vampire world-building and culture, including vampire mythology from other countries.
Kris Millering(M), Adrian Phoenix, Jeanne C. Stein, Saje Williams

Thinking Small
Friday, 10:00 p.m.
Cascade 7
Where will the nanotech revolution lead? At a recent meeting of the American Academy of Sciences, researchers reported that developments in nanotechnology are moving faster than predicted. Nanotechnology will make the future very different from what many of us, and most science fiction stories, have suggested.
Raymond McCauley(M), Doug Odell

Build Your Own Bimbo
Friday, 10:00 p.m.
Cascade 8
A fun way to build aliens and their cultures is to start with their sex lives... what kind of culture results when sex is fatal? When do you need four genders? What if males and females never meet? When gender depends on the time of day, how does that affect everything from the workplace and leisure pursuits to the act itself? A workshop with audience participation and/or role playing would be fun. Start with sex, and end with religion and politics.
Mickey Phoenix(M), Kal Cobalt, Pat MacEwen

Weird Tales party
Friday, 10:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Maxi's Lounge (21+)
Ready for an exciting night of music, drinking, dancing and literature? Yes, literature. Weird Tales is sponsoring tonight’s party in Maxi’s Lounge on the 14th floor. This is Norwescon’s first year with exclusive use of Maxi’s Lounge; help make it a huge success by joining Weird Tales and your friends up in our new space. Weird Tales and their fabulous authors will be providing the night’s entertainment. It is 21 and over, with ID and Norwescon badges required. You must match your ID, so watch the makeup and masks. Weird Tales promises to give you a thrilling time you won’t soon forget, so join us for the inaugural night in Maxi’s Lounge., Rating: 21+ (photo ID required)
Peggy Stewart

Poker Tournament Qualifying Round 6
Friday, 10:00 p.m. – Midnight
Rotunda 2
Do you have a poker face like Worf? Able to bluff like Riker? It's a social tournament; so whatever your skill level, there's a place for you at the table. With only a limited number of seats at the final table, you will need to win one of the qualifying rounds.
Mariah Johnson

Reading: David J. Williams
Friday, 10:30 – 11:00 p.m.
Cascade 3
The Machinery of Light, Reading from forthcomng novel (Bantam Spectra May 2010), Rating: R
David J. Williams

Slash Stereotypes
Friday, 11:00 p.m.
Cascade 4
Let’s take the gloves off, and talk about slash stereotypes. Top/bottom roles, kink, hurt/comfort… what are the stereotypes that you love, and which ones get under your skin?, Rating: ADULT
Cheryl Dyson

This Blood's for You
Friday, 11:00 p.m.
Cascade 5
True Blood’s season two just wrapped. For the most part the producers and crew have stayed true to the Southern Vampire series by Charlaine Harris in this HBO adaptation, but so much has been added to the show it’s like watching something new! What are some of our favorite moments from the show? Things that we could seriously do without? Do you love the additions, or do they make you wanna do bad things to the screen writers?
Loree Parker(M), Phillip Brugalette, Mimi Noyes

Victorian Sex
Friday, 11:00 p.m.
Cascade 6
Love the subtle bondage and discipline a corset implies? A hint of ankle or flash of stocking come across as shocking? Want to incorporate the Victorian sensibilities of steampunk into your "bedsport?" Come learn about the not-so-straightlaced Victorians and what was really going on underneath all that clothing., Rating: ADULT
Mickey Schulz(M), Victoria Shaffer

Friday Night Open Filk
Friday, 11:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.
Evergreen 3 & 4
Come-as-you-are music performance, one song at a time, taking turns. Or just come and listen! Everyone welcome.

Midnight Movie - Rocky Horror Picture Show
Friday, Midnight (seating 11:30 p.m.)
Evergreen 1 & 2
The Vicarious Theatre Company returns to give you a night of live action Rocky Horror Picture Show that you will never forget. Seating starts at 11:30p.m., so don't be late!
Vicarious Theatre Company