If you plan to enter the masquerade, you must attend this meeting if you DID NOT attend the Thursday or Friday night meetings. You will be provided all the info you need to compete and we will be there to answer any questions you have. Please make sure to bring your music to turn in. We will also have a computer for you to sign up online to compete if you haven’t already done so.

Come sign up for a game run by our DMs 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.

Saturday morning cartoons and coloring in your jammies—ease into Saturday with PBS Kids! We’ll have cartoons on and character coloring sheets available, followed by a visit and photo opportunity from Jet Propulsion from Ready Jet Go! Courtesy of KBTC Public Television.

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

All weekend there will be 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.

Various Works: Epic fantasy through a personal lens. Rated G

After all the learning and planning and dreaming the dream, we yell ACTION! Come be a part of our two hour, frantically paced film shoot! Share the laughs and terror of cramming something Hollywood takes 3 months to do, all in two hours.

How do you get a literary agent anyway? What are the best practices for querying? Our panel of professionals will discuss the query process and how to keep plowing forward despite rejection, as well as what agents do for authors and why you probably want one.

The face of feminism has changed over the decades, from the suffrage struggles of the first wave, the women’s liberation movement of the second wave, and the intersectionality of the third wave. Women are well-represented in local fandom, but a lot of fan media is still a boys’ club. Then, there are comic book heroines with improbable poses and battle lingerie. What does this say about the future of feminism? How do we inspire the next generation of girls to love the same genres we do? How do we overcome representation issues?

There’s purple prose, there’s white room, and then there’s just right. How do you avoid the first two and arrive at the third? Discuss with our panelists how rich, colorful phrasing can be best utilized while avoiding tired and overwrought prose.

There are so many good games out there to play on different platforms. Is World of Warcraft still the top dog? Do I need a computer or can I just play on my phone? Let’s look at the different games out there, which are the best for different kinds of players, and what is needed to play them.

Whether your problems are physical or psychological, there’s no denying that being creative and creating art is difficult to almost impossible when a disability stands in your way. Come learn how different artists and writers work with, past, or through their personal disabilities and limitations to create their art.

We all know that ebooks are a necessary component of sales, but how does one go about making one on their own? Can it be done? Yes, it can. This seminar will give you the basics of creating ebooks from scratch. We will crack an ebook open and look at the coding, talk about formats and what freeware to use, how to work with covers, testing, and where you can post your ebook for sale. Oh, and ISBNs. Presented by Clarion West. Ages 18+. Space is limited and advance sign up is required in Cascade 1.

Flowers made from ribbons and sewn on skirts, dresses, jackets, and hats were a popular form of embellishment during the Victorian era. Though very showy and glamorous, the techniques are not difficult and once you have the concept you can create all kinds of amazing botanical beauty. This workshop is suitable for adults and teens. Space is limited—Please sign up in Cascade 1.

Let us assume that faster-than-light space travel really is impossible, and we are unable to develop artificial wombs or effective cloning technology. So we build star arks: biomes rich with Terran life that might take centuries to reach an inhabitable world. What kinds of problems would these generation ships likely encounter, and how might they be addressed?

In any disaster, whether natural or human caused, one of the things that suffers the most is communication. But there is an alternative: amateur radio. This panel will tell you the basics of what amateur radio is, how to get licensed, what the capabilities are, and how you can get started in this exciting field.

Groups of 20+ participants, equipped with wooden swords, spears, and shields, will learn & practice basic Norse weapon combat skills in a safe, controlled environment. What is it like standing in the shield wall? Instructors will provide training swords, shields, and spears to be used by participants. The audience will play an important part in the experience.

Perihelion Burn: Four decades after alien probes streaked through the solar system, heralding an impending invasion, mankind has established a tenuous foothold throughout the asteroid belt. The Commonwealth Corporation leads the charge to build the defenses necessary to protect humanity. On a small, icy planetoid, volatiles prospector Tom Yeaton discovers what may be one of the alien probes. On Koronis Depot, the stronghold of Commonwealth’s defenses, the beautiful, troubled savant Alix Kenai finds that the Quantum Intelligence that manages the economy and defenses of the Outer System is going mad, and may be guilty of murder. Tom’s quest to decipher the mystery of the alien artifact and Alix’s mission to expose the forces driving the Quant insane will take them on a chase through the wondrous and strange frontiers of humanity’s future, leading them to an epic confrontation that threatens to ignite the entire solar system in war. Rated PG

Storytime and activities just for our youngest fen in Olympic 1. Ages 0-2 (older siblings welcome).

War Dogs: A selection from this trilogy. Rated R.

Ms. Marvel, Princeless, The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, and others are specifically seeking to engage younger readers, in particular younger female readers. What comics do our panelists recommend for your teen and pre-teen readers?

What makes for a compelling mythos? How do they develop or define characters? What do they say about the setting and world? Join our pros as they discuss implementing these elements in a fantasy setting.

Pokémon Go introduced millions of people to augmented reality, where virtual reality leaks into real reality. How did that first mass experience work? How did it not? What do we have to look forward to in the future?

Body shaming is rife in cosplay circles, with constant cries for bigger fans to play “body appropriate” characters… because there are so many of those to choose from? What do you do if you don’t have the body type of your favorite character? We’ll show you why it’s okay to be a plus size Wonder Woman, Power Girl, or Superman.

At different times and in different countries, there were RULES for how one would dress when in the presence of the royal sovereign. Our panelists will take us on a guided tour through time and around the world to splendid, opulent courts to showcase how one would dress to impress and not be embarrassed in the royal presence.

In this workshop, kids will begin to write a story, and every few paragraphs we will learn how to make it better by writing good description, using strong verbs, adding characters’ thoughts, and thinking up exciting things to happen in the story. Worksheets will be provided. Ages 8-11. Space is limited and advance sign up is required in Cascade 1.

What makes an editor pass on a story instead of buying it? What are common writing mistakes that make editors lose interest? What can you do to improve your chances of selling your work? Editors and other pros who’ve been around the block will discuss what works for them and what makes them stop reading.

Our Youth Pros will interview Bridget Landry, chemist and planetary scientist, on her work in STEM, followed by an open discussion and questions from our young audience.

Remember when? We used to meet up all the time in 1970s and 1980s. Come join us to reminisce or learn about the good old days. Fandom has changed since the new early days, it’s more main stream now and I have an electronic device I carry with me that allows me to argue with strangers and to share pictures of cats. What’s up with you?

A small, informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

A small, informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

POST: What if the Pacific Northwest survived world-wide troubles (climate change, economic collapse, illness) and began to rise from its challenges? How would that would feel to a sheltered teen who hid through most of the troubles? What would she do to help and what dangers would she encounter? Rated G.

Every budding mad scientist needs to start somewhere… and this is where! We will take cute fluffy stuffed animals and hack them into pieces only to reassemble them into marvelous monsters and creative chimera! Please bear in mind that to attend this workshop, one must be capable handling scissors and needles safely and if you cannot personally sew together your monster’s various bit and pieces you must bring a minion (aka “parent”) to do the dirty work for you! The only skills required are rudimentary sewing skills (plush is very forgiving) and a sick sense of humor. There will be a $5 materials fee per participant to cover the cost of DNA splitters, splicers, and experimental specimens. WARNING! Only adults serving as minions will be allowed to attend!

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 stand in the Roman line. Instructors will provide training swords and shields, to be used by each group of 20+ participants. The audience will play an important part in the experience. Legionaries might expect to be attacked by barbarians.

Do you love things that are fast? Do you love to go? Come learn about the science of propulsion and build some model jets, experiment with jet propulsion, and meet our friend Jet Propulsion from the PBS Kids’ Ready Jet Go! Jet’s appearance courtesy of KBTC Public Television.

At the Table of Wolves. This new series is paranormal espionage set in 1936 England, an alternate timeline where the psychic trauma of WWI has caused people to develop extrasensory abilities (Talents). Book one, At the Table of Wolves, introduces Kim Tavistock, who uses her talent for hearing the truth to uncover a Nazi plot to subdue England with a mysterious power over cold and ice. Rated G.

Entrants in the competition will register and present their entries to the panel of judges. Entries are all based on the same pattern.

What can the mild-mannered Science Fiction Fan do to his or her wardrobe to spice it up in a way that lets those in the know know that you know, too? Our panelists offer suggestions both for the Con and for your “real life”, if they are not the same thing.

Shakespeare got away with making up his own vocabulary because the people of his day didn’t know any better. Your readers do. Creative words and names can enhance the mystique of your setting and characters, but sloppy naming and a tin ear can detract from them just as easily. What goes into effective names and vocabularies, without them looking like a cat walked across your keyboard?

No matter how exotic a space mission might be we cannot get away from some earthbound habits. Like three square meals a day. So what do you eat in space, how do you cook it, and where are the best French fries in the solar system found?

The technological hurdles of SF are often addressed via the special gadget. Our panelists discuss classical examples, imagined things now a reality, and which hurdles they struggle with in their own work.

Everyone participates in this extravaganza. Bring your questions for the professionals and materials with which to create art on the spot. Everyone paints, draws, sketches, and blabs about art.

All you need is a piece of paper and a pencil and you can make an unfolding mini-comic that doesn’t need staples, has hidden surprises and gets your story out into the world fast. Once you’ve created your original piece, foldies are one of the fastest and cheapest zines to get out in the world as all you need is one page B&W double sided printing. This workshop is suitable for anyone who wants to play around with visual storytelling, from people who aren’t sure how to draw stick figures, writers who want to collaborate better with artists, to visual artists looking for a different way to play with the form. Some art supplies will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring pencils, pens, or erasers. Presented by Cascade Writers. Ages 10+. Space is limited and advance sign up is required in Cascade 1.

We’re going out to C! Or sea? BOTH, when it’s sea shanties! Come fill your lungs like bellowing sails and sing along to some favorite songs used on ships for work and entertainment. Don’t know the difference between a capstan and a haul shanty? That’s okay; we’ll show you the ropes!

Hold your breath and open your eyes under the water… With your MERsona on the way, let’s talk swimming! Strategies? Safety? Tail? How do you breathe!? (Please enter poolside from Concourse 2.)

A small, informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

A small, informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

An Oath of Dogs. Kate Standish has been on Huginn less than a week and she’s already pretty sure her new company murdered her boss. When curiosity drives her to investigate, she connects a secret chemical test site to a nearly forgotten disaster in Huginn’s history, revealing a conspiracy that threatens the whole town and Standish herself. Corporate flunkies, loggers, eco-terrorists, and even the dogs are out to get her… if they’re really dogs. Rated PG.

Olympic 1 will be filled with sensory-friendly items and activities for our neurodivergent members and their caregivers to drop-in to a safe space to slow down, stim, or just be themselves.

The Poison Eater The Poison Eater is the first novel in the Numenera line. Talia was once one of the twelve martyrs of the forgotten compass, a prisoner of the unhuman creatures known only as the vordcha. She barely escaped that life with her body and soul intact. Now she has a new life as a poison eater in the city of Enthait. Here she is hailed as one of the city’s protectors. No one knows her history. No one has asked about her past. She’s been here long enough that Enthait is her home now, these are her people. She loves them and they her. But in the Ninth World, the past is a living, breathing thing. And when it hunts you down, you can run. You can fight. Or you can die. Rated G

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

The Hero’s Journey is a metaphor for the human experience. In this panel, we will explore each stage of the Journey and examine its roots in Jungian archetype and the collective consciousness.

Want to run a game day, house con, or console party? Need some tips and ideas about how to make this a fun venture instead of a giant headache? Come and discuss the ins and outs of community game organizing.

How do today’s militaries project power into harm’s way? We’ll provide a basic review of the current land, sea, air, and space platforms from which warfare is conducted. We’ll briefly examine the evolution which brought us to this point and what we expect in the near future. This will be a ‘101’level introduction to weapons systems, fire control systems, and the state of the art for engineering systems. Especially useful for those with limited or no exposure to the military.

To boldly go where no man has gone before. These immortal words spoken 50 years ago gave rise to the Star Trek Franchise. Let’s talk about the TV show, movies and Star Trek’s impact on popular culture.

The balance between technical details and story are discussed as our panelists dive into the junction between being specific and still captivating the audience.

What’s the easiest thing about being a writer? Sitting in a chair! What’s the second easiest thing about being a writer? Putting your hands on a keyboard! What’s the hardest thing about being a writer? Making words come out of your brain! It doesn’t matter if you’ve just started thinking about writing a novel or have done a dozen of them; getting started on a new project is always the hardest part. Learn a technique that will help you outline an entire novel in a little under two hours. Idea stacking, plot spinning, pants wearing: all of these tools will be at your disposal as you settle into that writing chair and start your brain fire! Ages 18+. Space is limited and advance sign up is required in Cascade 1.

Our panelists will take your questions about biology, evolution, language, medicine, and more!

What does it really take to be a pirate? Learn basic exercises and activities needed to make it as a pirate on the high seas. Open to pirates of any and all genders. Brought to you by Swords for Scribes.

Need a quiet place where you can release your babies from confinement and let them socialize while you relax? Drop in for an hour and let your little ones roam free in the room.

Have some mini-figs to trade? Want to share stories about finding the Holy Grail of mini-figs? Have tips about how best to find the ones you want? This is the group for you!

Face the realities of having no legs in the human world and glimpse the “less than lovely” sides of Mer Life. (Please enter poolside from Concourse 2.)

Rain Music. Rated PG.

TWICE (The upcoming on-line serial!). Matt Rhymer was a 50-year-old man the night he… may or may not have been beaten to death by a troll while trying to save a teenage girl’s life in a downtown alleyway. In the final moments of THAT life, he made a rather hastily considered dying wish—of sorts. Not until the next morning did he realize his wish had not been as academic as he’d thought, or nearly as thought through as it should have been. Rated PG

Not every great hero or villain reaches their prominence by means of the proverbial sword. Join our panelists as they discuss characters who use attributes other than physical prowess to best their opposition.

In which we discuss religious themes in horror, from demons and devils to possession and the apocalypse. This blessed and ordained panel will lead you to the gates of Hell and back in one short hour.

From Luke Cage’s hackneyed “jive talking” to artists drawing Riri Williams, a 15-year-old girl, like an adult woman, white cis het male comics creators have had a bad habit of blowing it when it comes to representation, even when they mean well.

You’re an independent writer. You’re an independent musician. You’re an independent artist. You make indie games. How big do you need to be to make a sustainable living? The traditional track to success has involved the large imprints and labels, but that’s not working so well anymore, particularly not for musicians. Is there a way forward? Come listen to our independent creatives talk about forging new paths in their industries.

The role of the military commander has evolved from kings, pharaohs, and generals leading from the front of an army and sharing the risk of the battlefield, to those making corporate and bureaucratic decisions from the protection of bunkers, often far behind the lines or in headquarters on distant continents. We’ll review the shifting center of command and leadership styles around the world, and analyze the impact on military culture. We’ll review partial case studies of Grant, Pershing, Marshall, Eisenhower, Powell, and Petraeus.

Masculine tropes are commonly used in the depiction of heroes, but toxic masculinity is increasingly being explored as well. What is toxic masculinity, and how does it lend itself to the writing of villainy and evil?

Participants will be able to make and take archery bows formed from prepared PVC (3/4” sch40) bow staves. Using low temperatures from heat guns, each person, working as part of a team, will be able to custom form a bow over an array of curved wooden forms, then fashion a simple Dacron bowstring and measure the draw weight of the finished bow. Examples of different types of bows will be provided. (Although temperatures should not exceed 150 degrees F., and there are little to no plastic fumes generated, individuals with any kind of respiratory sensitivity might choose to avoid this workshop.)

A concise summary of the most significant events in space operations from the rest of the world. This is a perennial Norwescon favorite so be sure to get your seat early!

You want to do a historic costume from a culture that is not your own. What are the considerations an ethical costumer employs to make sure one does not cross over to cultural appropriation? What is the difference between a tribute celebration and tacky lifting of cultural motifs for fashion plunder? When doing recreation, what about make-up to change ethnicity and do the rules of cosplay apply to historic recreation and vice versa?

Our 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.

The PDX Broadsides have been playing music together since 2011. Accidentally formed as an a capella pirate shanty group, they soon branched out into their own original compositions. The Broadsides love things, and as a result many of their songs are about the things they love. Turns out those things are basically nerdy.

Interview by our youth pros with Cat Rambo, writer, editor, and current president of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America. Followed by a short reading and an open discussion and questions from our young audience.

A selection from the Devil’s West universe. Rated PG

Chat with author and podcaster Tina Connolly and our youth pros about her work, followed by a short reading and an open discussion with our young audience.

Skyfarer. The Axiom Diamond is a mythical relic with the power to show its bearer any truth they desire. Men have sought it across many continents for centuries, but in vain. When trainee sorceress Aimee de Laurent’s first ever portal-casting goes awry, she and her mentor are thrown into the race to find the gem on the skyship Elysium. Opposing them are the infamous magic-wielding knights of the Eternal Order and their ruthless commander, Lord Azrael, who will destroy everything in their path!

Fantastic Beasts brought us a new look at the wizarding world and a glimpse of the couture looks of American witches and wizards in the early twentieth century. We review our favorite fashion finds and how we would create our own magical looks.

No matter how you’re published, if you want to make writing into a career you need to treat it like a business. This panel will discuss best practices for keeping track of finances and royalties, the nitty-gritty of contracts, and how to run your small business without letting it take over the creative side of writing.

Many cultures around the world have their own stories of shape-changers. From the Skinwalkers of the Navajo to the Loup Garrou of the French or the Hindi Rakshasa, shape-changers are an enduring part of world culture. Our expert panel will discuss their historical roots and how they grew to influence modern horror.

Batteries used to be dull, if pretty important. Now they are even more important, and as exciting as your pants on fire. What has put the spark in batteries, and where will the currents of technology take portable electricity?

The idea that fandom and SF/F is more accepting and diverse is often bandied around. Is that true? How do we move beyond oppressive tropes and what can we do to be aware of creating a truly accepting environment?

Creativity takes time and energy, and life has a way of eating up both. Pros will discuss how they juggle chores, children, pets, day jobs—and all the other things that suck up time like a vacuum—while still getting words on the page. Includes tips on time management, organization, and how to say no to things that keep trying to encroach on your writing time.

The Space Shuttle was hailed as the cheap, routine road to space. Yet in the 30 years of the program it proved far more maintenance intensive, far more dangerous to fly than anyone thought, and it costs a staggering amount for each launch. What went wrong? Why did the reality diverge so radically from the theory? And why did the Soviet Union only fly its shuttle once and then drop the program?

Learning from the tragic past (and e-book present), this panel will hope to prevent future crimes against authors and readers alike.

Who would win in a fight? A fast-paced, bracket-style, breathtakingly unscientific showdown to determine this year’s Ultimate Fictional Champion. Ready… Fight!

Vandy Hall talks in depth about her work in the show and shares her thoughts about selected other works as well. Come enjoy an artist’s perspective on the Norwescon Art Show!

Our 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.

Celt Check! is a dynamic quartet providing “full frontal harmonies”! They are a family band, with father, Gareth Davis, daughter, Darcy Davis, significant other, Ari Stolar, and long-time family friend, Finn McFaire. Gareth plays 6-string and 12-string guitars and vocals, and has been performing music in various venues for most of his life. Darcy plays recorder and vocals and has been singing and performing for over 25 years. Ari is their percussionist, playing bodhran, and made his stage debut in the summer of 2015. Finn McFaire plays 12-string guitar, doumbek, tin whistle, and vocals, and has also been performing music in various professional venues for most of his life. They have extensive lists of Celtic songs from Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, varying from authentic Celtic ballads to toe-tapping tavern pieces, and contemporary rock and folk songs of the 20th century. Slow-and-sweet to rock-the-bar, Celt Check! does it all!

Our fantastic costume pros will help families create a one-of-a-kind costume for the Children’s Masquerade Parade using the items you bring and the accessories and bling we have on hand!

Come meetup to discuss evolution and the book Grandmother Fish. We will also have the game Clades, the Evolutionary Card Game.

Behind the Lines; Empire of Night. Scott James Magner reads from the next installments of his novel series The Transgenic Wars and The Hunters Chronicle. Rated PG.

Tod McCoy reads a pair of short stories. Rated PG

Cosmic Ash Studios presents: The prop contest. Theme: future tech. Sci-fi weapons and gear: You want to build a ray gun to blast those pesky aliens? Hand-held radar to track down precious and scarce metals? All that and more will qualify: this contest is looking for the weapon, gear, gadget of the future. You will be judged by the quality of construction, story, and how coherent the piece is. The first 10 entries will receive a free pack of materials to get you going, from TAP Plastics (Worbla, InstaShape and foamed PVC). First register, first serve. Registration is live on our website. Awards will be announced at the end of the Masquerade.

Whether one was born a baroness or a tavern wench, an abbess or a farm wife, people in current times have formed impressions of the characteristics and roles that women had in their societies. May women of the past be seen more clearly?

Video games have evolved from dots and lines mimicking sports and war, to graphic adventures that explore worlds and themes. Some games even forego intensive gameplay for immersive narrative. Our panelists will discuss the rise of deep storytelling in electronic gaming and where this trend will take us.

After hearing a short passage, two artists compete to come up with a cover for the story, and the audience gets to cheer them on.

Back by popular demand: New and Improved! We are extending the one-hour panel to a two-hour workshop. Come away with an intimate understanding of the Operational Order format and how to build one from first principles through “signature ready.” Receive small group interaction with OPORD experts. When completed, we’ll run an exercise to demonstrate its completeness and show you the holes in your plan and how to correct them.

Come one and all, and bring ideas! We’ll work on creating a song in the panel!

Layering information for plot and clue development and world building. See examples of how Kat layers clues and information into her timelines and outlines to create an arch and achieve follow through. This method will help whether doing traditional worldbuilding or in cases of mysteries, “where the clues make the story,” to ensure that each clue hits its intended marker. Attendees will be able to ask questions after the lecture portion and get input on ways to layer their own information throughout their story/novel. Presented by Cascade Writers. Ages 18+. Space is limited and advance sign up is required in Cascade 1.

Learn the basics of model rocket construction and build a rocket of your very own to fly! Materials supplied.

Join our panelists as they discuss the concept of the singularity, both as a scientific principle and an element in fiction.

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

Bring your guppies over to Olympic 1 for some Fintastically magical stories, and possibly songs and games.

A small, informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

A small, informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

Everfair. Everfair is a steampunk adventure set primarily in Congo during King Leopold II of Belgium’s reign. Rated PG.

Drop by for crafts and activities for our young members.

Are you a rabid Harry Potter fan? Do you routinely correct people when they get HP facts wrong? Wear your house colors and come to this magical meetup!

The PrEP Diaries. The PrEP Diaries is a safe(r) sex memoir about life in the new era of Truvada, a daily pill that blocks HIV transmission. What was considered science fiction for three decades is now science fact; Peterson’s book chronicles flirting, dating, and hooking up in the rapidly changing culture of apps, social media, and non-lethal, frequently non-contagious HIV. Rated PG.

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

Bring your favorite comic characters in mind, and our crack team of comic know-it-alls will develop stats for them to battle it out in an RPG Comics Smackdown to End All Smackdowns!

Art and games are linked in ways both obvious and subtle, from graphics and illustration to more ephemeral concepts like narrative and form, but many people overlook the concept that a game in and of itself can be art. If art is something that evokes feeling and has meaning by its intent, then games can certainly be art. Join our panelists in this discussion of what art is, what games are, and how the two are not mutually exclusive.

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

The Pacific Northwest is home to a dazzling variety of life, from tide pools to old-growth forests, from rainforests to the Scablands. Our panelists will talk about the rich diversity of our part of the world, and where you can go to see them.

The court costumes of Westeros feature stunning examples of beadwork and appliqué. Our experts take you through some of the techniques employed by the outstanding design team that make the Game of Thrones costumes the best looking fantasy costumes on television.

Come paint a miniature with expert advice from our panelists. Paint, brushes, miniatures, and other supplies provided free, and you get to take your figure home at the end!

Only 12 years separate Forbidden Planet from 2001: A Space Odyssey. The two films look like they come from different ages. How did the space movie transform from a simple straightforward story (granted a very well told one) to one of the more difficult to understand if not one of the most controversial films in cinema history? And will we ever see a film as radically different as 2001 again?

A small, informal social gathering for coffee and conversation. Space is limited. Sign up in Cascade 1.

Scattered Objects. In this upcoming science fiction police thriller, a mass murder in an ethnic ghetto sparks racial and political tensions that could lead to genocide or civil war on a corporate-controlled planet. A controversial detective and his rookie partner face opposition on all sides as they race toward a solution that could be more lethal than the crime itself. Rated PG.

Here is an opportunity for you and your peers to read the first 750 words of your stories aloud (approximately 3 manuscript pages, 5 minute time limit), then critique each other’s work in a round-table marathon moderated by one of our pro writers. Space is limited, advanced sign-up required in Cascade 1.

Machinations. Rated PG

Building on last year’s lively “Fandom in Daily Life” discussion, this panel will explore what fandom looks like in the academic world. From teaching students to embrace their own fandoms, to the pleasures and pitfalls of teaching science fiction and horror to undergraduates; we will discuss the many ways in which academics express and promote their fannish passions, whether in the classroom or the lab.

Is there a reason that, when they become bad guys, characters like Loki and the Riddler seem to be drawn smaller, more slender, and dare I say, more fey? Why do we use stereotypically feminine traits to code for villainy in comics?

Urban fantasy often seeks to connect with a contemporary audience; however, the speed of technology can quickly date those setting nuances. Join our pros as they discuss ways to include a contemporary world without it being outdated.

And how not to be. Navigating social media as a professional can be challenging, but it can also be a fun way to bring a human face to your brand—as long as you don’t come off like a spambot trying to sell your book. Our experts talk about common mistakes and pitfalls authors make on social media and how to avoid them, as well as best practices for utilizing social media, email, and blogs, and creative ways to help you connect with—not alienate—readers.

Alien and fantasy landscapes are essential to SFF art; what strategies go into creating them, and what landscapes here on Earth influence the landscapes we create?

The door closes and the car shoots upward. Next stop: Space! A science fiction dream or a real engineering possibility?

Crafting your film begins and ends with a good edit. Editing can and does make or break films. You can craft the story with editing, you can make a bad actor a good actor with editing, or you can create a jump scare or wind up tension out of nothing. We’re going to concentrate on the craft of editing, not any specific software, as there’s a ton of good, free software at your fingertips. Don’t believe those other guys, editing really is the single most important step in filmmaking! Come learn how master it!

Have you ever wondered how people figure out what kind of musical instrument they want to play? Several of our pros have volunteered to 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 be 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!

Come on in and find a seat.

Ever get wound up and have a hard time getting ready for bed? Are you overclocked and your wires crossed? Come join your fellow Robots in Olympic 1 for a cool-off and wind-down at the end of a busy day.

The Darkness: “Do you remember me? I used to call you Mommy.” Rated R.

Join us at the pinnacle event for Saturday evening, the Norwescon 40 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. So come and join us as the doors open at 6:00 p.m. The show begins with the Children’s Masquerade. After the show stay around as we present the winners of the Single Pattern and Props competitions, and finally stay in your seats to learn who our GOHs for next year will be.

TBD Rated PG

Nature is rewriting the once immutable rules of worldbuilding. There’s liquid water on Mars. Who knew? Dinosaurs had feathers. Exoplanets exist in defiance of everything we knew about planetary mechanics. What does it mean for today’s writers when the building of credible landscapes is proving a much more organic and free-flowing process than once believed?

Torn from your home, beaten, starved, humiliated, you probably face a life of toil and degradation in a strange land. From earliest times, the strong or rich have used the weak in any way they desire. What was slavery like in the ancient and medieval world? Who were the masters and who the slaves? How did slavery flourish and change over two thousand years?

Let’s look at Star Wars over the last 40 years and what is in store for the future. Movies, comic books, TV, and books.

You completed Flirting 101, did the homework, and are ready for more advanced topics. Bi, poly, pan, no-labels, typicals, and aliens are all welcome to this advanced session. Certificates awarded to those who attended both workshops, completed homework, and took the final exam.

Once your film is edited, you’re almost done! You just need to adjust the color, mix the sound, and then figure out how to export it for eager eyeballs. Come learn all the final steps in getting your movie ready for the masses!

Get a glimpse into artist Jeff Sturgeon’s innovative techniques and distinctive style.

From the tablet to cell phones, we live in an era forecast long ago in science fiction. Our panelists look ahead 50 years and extrapolate on what the current stories of today may forecast for tomorrow.

Winds of Danger: In Spain at the turn of the 15th century, the Church hunts fey with magic of its own. Risking discovery, a young Jewish fey runs away from home to find freedom at sea with his best friend. Rated PG.

“Debase.” An erotic BDSM story about a woman who loves humiliating men, until those tables turn and she finds herself in the hot seat of humiliation. Nothing will ever be the same for poor Emma, or any of the men in her office. Rated R

A fast-paced reading featuring excerpts from stories and novels written by Broad Universe members. Come and find your new favorite author. Broad Universe is a nonprofit organization that accepts members from all genders and has supported women writing, editing, and publishing speculative fiction since 2000. We will have chocolate and a drawing for books and other giveaways.

Horror has a formula, especially in cinema. Our expert panel will discuss horror movie endings, where they fall down, and how they can be better.

Come for a lively review of the history of men and women’s roles in combat. We’ll look at different cultures from past and present, going beyond Amazons, women Samurai, and Joan of Arc to the experience of the Russians, Chinese, and Israelis. We’ll examine science fiction writers, such as Heinlein and Starship Troopers to speculate on changing gender roles in future military structures. This is especially timely as the U.S. military moves towards opening all combat roles to women.

How has the king of role playing games influenced popular culture? D&D has left its mark on movies, TV shows, comic books, and video games. Let’s talk about our favorites, and some of the ways that Dungeons & Dragons has imprinted on our popular media.

You want to create a hero for the masses! The unrepresented! The downtrodden! How do you do that without putting your foot in it big-time? Tips and tricks for writing people who are not you, or to help you know that maybe you are not the person to write this and is there someone you could support who could do it better?

Hanford was a technological garden in the desert; bringing huge numbers of people, cutting edge science, and blanketing security together to make plutonium, one atom at a time (sort of). Today things are a little different. Come listen to some old fogies tell tales of the strange old days.

DJ teeebone presents Mos Eisley Cantina Night. Now that the Force has been awakened, the Rogue One is on the loose! Returning to Norwescon from a galaxy too close for comfort, DJ teeebone will be serving up his unique blend of classic rock, pop, mashups, and con favorites Star Wars style! So drop in after the Masquerade (in costume or not) and dance the night away!

Bits & Pieces: Join SF/F author Raven Oak as she reads a snippet from her upcoming book, Amaskan’s War, or possibly a cat short story. Honestly, she’ll read whatever the audience wants her to read. She’s bringing several possibilities, including a video game player’s guide if that’s what you really want (I kid, I kid!). Either way, it’ll be fun and there will be chocolate! Rated PG.

“Rabbit Hole.” Rated G.

A returning panel from last year where we discuss the importance of setting in a horror narrative, complete with favorite settings from our panel of horror professionals.

A discussion regarding elements of a dystopia that bring realism to a fallen world, without being mired in details that fail to move the story forward. Join our panelists as they discuss these elements and their implementation into dystopian storytelling.

English is one of many languages that uses pronouns that distinguish between male and female persons. In the last couple of decades, a number of non-gendered replacements have been proposed, from singular “they” to entirely new words. Our panelists will discuss these pronouns and why they matter.

Writers have been wrong before and they’ll be wrong again. A bad blog post, a great tweet— it’s part of the job to take risks. But even if you’re writing well, you’ll make mistakes. Join us as we discuss potential appropriation issues and how to handle these writing and professional snafus, both within yourself and your audience, and how to grow from the experience.

Interested in creating digital maps for your campaign, book, or board game but not sure where to even start? Let me show you some tips and tricks I have learned over the years on how to create digital maps. From where to start, available cartography programs, source material, mapping communities to show and discuss your work, and some common hang-ups and how to get through them.

Already know the basics? It’s time to put it to use. Each individual in this class-like panel will go through a step-by-step process to write a five minute short film they can shoot themselves! We’ll delve into the depths of dialogue, how to drive a scene, and how to tell a story from beginning to middle to end in only five minutes. (Please feel free to bring your laptop or notebook and pen; we’ll have paper and pens available as well.)

Come sign up for a game run by our DMs 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.

Can you survive the Zombie Maze? Make your way through solo or in groups, armed with a Nerf Blaster and your wits, with zombies just around the next corner. This is played only in the provided area. Those underage players must have a parent present to play. Equipment is provided at the play area.

Come sign up for a game run by our DMs 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, MUST MEET HOTEL DRESS CODE TO BUY DRINKS IN THE BAR.

Mask of the Blood Queen. Two adventurers set out across the frozen tundra, one seeking to atone for past mistakes, one pulled by the call of a stolen birthright. Set in the apocalyptic fantasy World of Ruin. Rated R.

The Nathaniel Johnstone Band hails from Seattle, Washington, led by multi-instrumentalist Nathaniel Johnstone (violin, banjo, and guitar). Their vibrant sound crosses boundaries and borders, resulting in a blend of rock, jazz, surf, and folk with a penchant for storytelling and myth-bending. Joining the band on stage is world-renowned bellydance fusion artist Tempest, adding another incredible level to the band’s dynamic stage show. All together, they provide an incredible audio-visual experience that delivers solid, reliable music and high-quality entertainment—all while getting folks up and dancing!

So you know the basics of BDSM, maybe you’ve engaged in play or had a kinky relationship. Where do you go next? And what exactly is edge play, anyway? We’ll explain all that, and give suggestions on how to do the edgier things more safely and sanely. 18+ only, please.

It’s the last open filk of Norwescon 40! After you’ve partied around a bit, and after the concerts are over, come sing or play whatever you want, alone or with friends, to the most supportive crowd you will ever run into ever, anywhere. Bring your instrument, bring your voice, and put some of that participation into participatory culture!