Conifer 1
Friday, Oct. 25
4-4:50pm: World Naming – Alien Atlas
On the naming of your geography — what do you call your mountains/rivers/plains/cities? How do you make it blend well with the rest of your setting? Listen as these authors discuss the ways they’ve done it well and perhaps how they have missed the mark.
A. Ritchey (M), C. Wilson, L. Teffeau, M. Rotundo
5-5:50pm: Revision strategies: how to draw order from the chaos.
Writers share tips on how they like to organize material from their draft and turn it into something readable.
C. Berg (M), D. Slayton, L. MacNaughton, K. Campbell
6-6:50pm: Why NOT to monetize your hobby
Everyone has a side hustle these days. However, maybe that’s not always for the best? Our panelists will talk about why you should probably not monetize your hobby.
E. Mah (M), FeyMeggan, J. Barnes, S. Wahl
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
0-10:50am: To Infinity and Beyond, the IAAA
Artists Rick Sternbach and Michael Carroll to discuss the International Association of Astronomical Artists.
R. Sternbach, R. Cassell
11am-11:50am: Behind Space Command
Join artist Chris Bagley and Denver Art Museum’s Ann Lambson as they probe some of the boundless mysteries of space brought down to earth. In conversation, they will explore the altered reality of Bagley’s Space Command—its elevating inspiration, vision, and experience in this immersive installation on view at the DAM. With an eye on culture’s periphery,
A. Lambson, C. Bagley
Noon-12:50pm: Museum Nerds
Join our museum-affiliated panelists as they geek out about all things museum.
Cam (M), C. Vaughn, K. YU, T. Hutcheson
1-1:50pm: Blind Slush Panel
Join our panel of experts as they read aloud blind submissions and explain what did and did not catch their ear/interest.
J. Van Pelt (M), M. DesJardin, C. Hightshoe, J. Stith, P. Sartucci
2-2:50pm: Colorful Colorado
Our beautiful state could be a character in and of itself. Authors will read from their stories set in Colorado and discuss what makes our great state so compelling of a setting.
J. Van Pelt, M. Acevedo, P. Sartucci
3-3:50pm: Gothic Gardens – dark flowers & poisonous beauties
Let’s talk all things gothic and gardens. Dark flowers, hidden poisons, and the beauties therein.
G. Hobbit (M), J. Lambert, R. Rice, M. Whittaker
4-4:50pm: Worldbuilding for DMs
Creating your world might be one of the most important things a DM can do. Our panelists will share their tips, tricks, and experiences to help you be a better DM
Fred Poutre Cloven Fruit Games (M), Karen, R. Rice, D. Beetem
5-5:50pm: From Barcode to QR Code
Where do we see the future of the codes so ubiquitous in our life going? What’s the next technological tracking innovation?
D. Knippling (M), N. VanDerWerken, C. Stout, Courtney Willis
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
10am-11:50am: Instant Slush Pile
Bring your manuscript of 250 words or less and listen live as a panel of editors give their opinions, if you dare.
L. Berger
Noon-12:50pm: Cosplay Pattern Hacking
Not sure where to start with a pattern? Let our panelists help you figure that out, and give their best tips for hacking patterns to make your cosplay.
FeyMeggan, G. Hobbit, D. Feldman, J. Coyle
1-1:50pm: I Wasn’t Expecting That – twist endings, sudden switches, reversals and other fictional flip-flops
2-2:50pm: Cats in SF/F/H
Crest cats, Kzinti, Hani, flat cats, tree cats, Fams, the Cheshire Cat, Billy the Kit … we’ll discuss some of the many feline permutations we’ve seen/read and offer thoughts on why cats are so purr-vasive in the genre.
R. Owens (M), R. Williscroft, D. Bell, J. Bigelow
3-3:50pm: How to Sell yourself on BookTok and Bookstagram
So you’ve heard of BookTok and Bookstagram but are not sure how to sell yourself or best use it to market? Let our panelists help you pave your way to better views.
L. Johnson (M), Qwordy, S. Johnson, Jason Henderson
Conifer 2
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
2-2:50pm: Moderator 101
So you’re a new moderator wondering how on earth this moderating thing works? Or you’re an experienced moderator looking for a few new tips? Or you’re just a panelist wondering how this whole moderating thing works? This is the panel for you — our expert moderators will share their tips and tricks on how to be competent, reliable, and most importantly a moderator who is asked to moderate again!
C. Kemp (M), J. Lambert, S. Johnson, J. Van Pelt
3-3:50pm: Panelist 101
The hows and whats of how to be a good panelist. From what should go in front of you (beverage, your name placard, not too mamy things you’re selling), to how to behave (sit up, don’t look at your watch, don’t talk over others) — our panelists will set you on the right course to be a good panelist who’s asked to participate again in the future.
FeyMeggan (M), E. Mah, Jason Evans, I. Tregillis
4-4:50pm: Handling Rejection (as an Artist or Author)
No one wants to be rejected — but it can be taken as a badge of honor. Our panelists will discuss how they’ve handled rejection, how to pick yourself up after a rejection and move forward, how to find the wheat from the chaff in a rejection to make a work stronger, etc.
T. Hutcheson (M), S. Lawrence, A. Armstrong, Qwordy
5-5:50pm: Horror Cliches We Want to Die
We all have seen them — the final girl, the girl punished for having s3x, the idiots who split the party, etc. Let’s talk the horror cliches we want to see go the way of the dinosaurs — extinct!
D. Knippling (M), H. Werner, Jo, M. Acevedo
6-6:50pm: Military SF
Listen as three of our authors read from their Military SF works and discuss what does and doesn’t work within the genre and how they see it moving forward.
V. Robertson (M), J. Brazee, A. Gaffen
9-9:50pm: Why are books about Shifters So Popular?
Join us for a fan-focused discussion on why books about shifters have so much appeal among readers. Why do we love them? What needs do they fulfill? Does everyone just want to be able to shift into a tough alpha creature to tackle their problems?
S. Lawrence (M), R. Wilber, C. Wilson, M. Whittaker
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
10-10:50am: Readings about Strong non-male characters (women, enbies, agender folks, etc)
Join our panelists for their readings featuring strong non-male characters and a short discussion of why this inclusion is important.
J. Lambert (M), E. Lell, I. Brazee-Cannon, K. Merritt
11am-11:50am: The Math of Wildcards – Superheroes and Jokers
Learn about the science behind the superheroes and jokers of the Wild Cards universe.
I. Tregillis
Noon-12:50pm: The DASFA Turkey Readoff Zombie Invasion
Join our annual readoff from the very special books our panelists have brought to wow you with.
Arlen (M), D. Feldman, T. Anderson, R. Beetem
1-1:50pm: Standalone or series?
When picking a standalone or a series, how do they differ for the reader, the author, and the industry?
J. Bigelow (M), B. Davis, C. Berg, S. Tefoe
2-2:50pm: Flash Fiction Chopped
Join our panel of authors as they battle it out for flash fiction supremacy from a basket of story ingredients provided by the audience.
M. Ward, D. Ausema, H. Werner, Karen, L. MacNaughton
3-3:50pm: The Realistic Applications of AI
What can or should we use AI for realistically? Our panelists will attempt to answer that question, and more.
Arlen (M), Dr. Jim, C. Fantastic, Jim Henderson
4-4:50pm: Epidemiology, human psychology and the next pandemic
D. Dvorkin (M), B. Rutledge, Jo, B. Davis
5-5:50pm: BookTok/Bookstagram for the Fans – Drama, Darlings, and Dirty Details
Let’s get a deep dive into the fan side of BookTok and all of the surprising drama therein.
M. Ward (M), Qwordy, T. Hutcheson, A. Kessler
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
9-9:50am: Ecumenical Worship Service
Join Reverend Burgess for an ecumenical worship service where all are welcome.
M. Burgess
10-10:50am: The Appeal of Paranormal Romance
Fated mates, vampires, shifters, witches, warlocks, fae — what is the appeal of the paranormal, particularly in romance?
R. Owens (M), J. Bigelow, M. Whittaker, C. Wilson
11am-11:50am: Horses (because we can!)
Why do we love horses so much? From the companions of Valdemar, to the loyal Artax, to the frying pan wielding Maximus — they’re characters in and of their own right.
K. Campbell (M), R. Mingault, C. Barili, S. Tefoe
Noon-12:50pm: Covers from the Artist’s Perspective
Let’s talk all things covers from the artists perspective.
E. Mah (M), N. VanDerWerken, P. Charlifu, H. Roberds
1-1:50pm: Fairy Tales for Modern Times
The original fairy tales were designed as moral lessons and could be quite dark. With the continued impact of the internet, there are newer modern fairy tales what moral lessons do things like Mothman, Slenderman, etc teach us?
A. Kessler (M), J. Black, D. Knippling, S. Tem
2-2:50pm: SF&F Westerns
Our authors will read from their western inspired works and discuss what makes the mashup work and where it can go awry.
S. Ulibarri, B. Dornbusch, W. McCarthy
3-3:50pm: Coder’s Corner (let’s talk coding/tech!)
As it says — let’s have a roundtable discussion on best editors, favorite (and least!) programming languages, if AI will be useful for coding or has been already, etc
A. Kessler (M), A. Burt, Arlen, V. Calisto
Conifer 3
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
3-3:50pm: Cosplay Presentation Tips
Participating in the masquerade? Thinking about a Halloween costume contest? Join our panelists for tips and tricks on how to improve your presentation sklils.
G. Hobbit (M), R. Rice, D. Feldman, J. Barnes
4-4:50pm: Modern Magic
Join our panelists as they discuss mixing elements of the fantastic into a contemporary setting. A literary or cross-media panel focused on contemporary fantasy, urban fantasy, paranormal, magical realism, super hero stories, etc. set in a close approximation of our current world.
E. Lell (M), L. Braden, R. Owens, C. Vaughn
5-5:50pm: Art & AI: the ethics and morals thereof
As it sounds like — our panelists will discuss Art, AI, and the ethics around the use of AI in art. Settle in for an interesting discussion as our panelists do their best to come to a cohesive and acceptable definition of where these ethics lie.
Arlen (M), A. Burt, C. Fantastic, C. Kemp
6-6:50pm: Futures – dystopian, utopian, and beyond
Join our authors as they read from their works and discuss the varieties of futures that might face humanity.
L. Teffeau (M), H. Hendrix, Connie Willis
9-9:50pm: *Welcome to Night Vale Reader’s Theater
Join our moderators for interactive reading from Night Vale, and watch out for the weather.
G. Hobbit (M), R. Beetem
10-10:50pm: *Flash Fiction Chopped: After Dark (18+)
It’s the no-holds barred, R-Rated version of Flash Fiction Chopped. Four authors enter, only one is crowned champion. The audience provides the character, setting, and conflict, and our authors write their hearts out in five to seven minute sprints.
M. Ward (M), Fred Poutre Cloven Fruit Games, J. Barnes, C. Barili, J.T. Evans
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
10-10:50am: Modern Stop Motion Animation
Modern Stop Motion animation in film and television and some of the ways new technology is integrated into the oldest filmmaking media. Plus a look at what it takes to make studio-grade puppets and how to get into the industry.
H. Wahl
11am-11:50am: Tales from the Slush Pile: Tales from the Slush Pile
What actually goes through a screener’s mind when they read submissions and how you too can screen manuscripts.
C. Hightshoe, D. Bell, V. Calisto, Jason Henderson
Noon-12:50pm: Your favorite story you’ve sold
Panelists will read from their favorite story they’ve sold and then discuss why it was so special.
A. Ritchey (M), D. Bell, H. Roberds
1-1:50pm: Resources & Ideas for SF/F/H in the Classroom & Library
Let’s talk about how to make SF&F and horror more prevalent in the classroom and libraries and how to successfully incorporate it.
D. Slayton (M), V. Robertson, H. Werner, D. Ausema
2-2:50pm: We Named the Dog Indiana
It’s a well known line for a reason — names stick with us and have great power. This intrepid group of panelist adventurers will discuss all things names for writing, gaming, and beyond.
S. Lawrence (M), L. Johnson, S. Ulibarri, K. Campbell
3-3:50pm: Writing Unconventional Relationships
Let’s talk all things unconventional relationships. From found families to why choose, all spectrums of queer relationships, platonic relationships, and beyond.
A. Armstrong (M), I. Brazee-Cannon, V. Calisto, B. Dornbusch
4-4:50pm: The art of Story Blending
Our panelists will discuss gathering inspiration from ordinary experiences and tweaking it to make it something extraordinary.
T. Anderson (M), D. Bell, S. Ulibarri, Chip
5-6:50pm: Ed Bryant Memorial and Book Launch
The first volume of the Ed Bryant retrospective is ready for release. Join the book launch to learn more and/or reminisce about Ed Bryant and his remarkable life.
S. Johnson, J. Gervais
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
9-9:50am: SWFA Member’s Panel/Meetup (only current SFWA Members)
A. Gaffen, J. Wilker, M. DesJardin, Jim Henderson, J. Rew
10-10:50am: Urban and Suburban SF&F/H
Authors will read from their urban and/or suburban s&f or horror stories and discuss the genre as a whole.
Chip, S. Tem, T. Hutcheson
11am-11:50am: Add a Dash of Mystery
Our panelists will talk about adding a bit of mystery to whatever you’re working on and how to do that in the best way possible.
C. Berg (M), D. Knippling, J. Black, J. Stith
Noon-12:50pm: Do Grammar and Punctuation Still Matter?
As the title says – do they still matter? Are you team oxford comma or don’t care? Does my excessive use of question marks in this description annoy you? And of course there’s the debate around whether or not using periods in text messages is rude.
R. Wilber (M), R. Williscroft, L. Johnson, R. Seagren
1-1:50pm: Crowdsourcing Science: The Increasing Importance of Citizen Science Initiatives
D. Dvorkin (M), G. Hobbit, S. Wahl, Cam
2-2:50pm: IP That Should Have Its Own RPG (and Sometimes Why It Doesn’t)
As the title says — let’s talk intellectual properties we think really should have their own role playing games and the logistics and considerations that might make that impossible at times.
J. Black (M), C. Kemp, J.T. Evans, J. Fiala
3-3:50pm: Space Travel in the News
From Boeing’s Starliner to SpaceX and beyond let’s talk all things space travel in recent news.
S. Wahl (M), A. Mayer, H. Hendrix, Jim Barnard – Denver Space Society
Evergreen A
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
3-3:50pm: The Gentle Art of the Query Letter
What is a query letter? How does on write one? What goes into it? There’s a definite art to writing a good query letter, and our panelists will discuss their experiences with them.
J. Lambert (M), J.T. Evans, J. Rew, M. Stallings
4-4:50pm: Disability in SF&F/Horror – the good, the bad, and the unconscionable
Disability is a constant in many people’s lives, and yet so often handled so poorly in genre writing. Our panelists will discuss the good, the bad, and the very very ugly.
C. Barili (M), Jo, K. Merritt, G. Hyde
5-5:50pm: Teen Roundtable (for the 13-19 set)
Teens! This is for you — come and chat with each other and plan your weekend of fun.
Qwordy (M), Q. Brazee-Cannon
6-6:50pm: Improvisational Fun & Games
Come play improv games with fellow fans.
R. Beetem (M), Q. Brazee-Cannon, T. Anderson
7-8:50pm: Teen Roleplaying
Young adventures far and wide feel free to come join a wondrous adventure. Whether you are new to roleplaying, or a long time player come join the Adventure, all in the hopes to just have fun, with the power of imagination heart and the huge amounts of beautiful shiny math rocks!
Q. Brazee-Cannon
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
10-10:50am: Machines and Consciousness
Join the Doctors Gunderson to discuss machines, consciousness, and how/if/when they might be linked.
Dr. Jim, L. Gunderson
11am-11:50am: How to Find your Beta Readers
Beta readers — whether you’re published or writing fanfic or anywhere in between, what is a beta reader and how do you find them?
L. Jacobs (M), K. Jonuska, R. Wilber, M. DesJardin
Noon-12:50pm: Masters of the Multiverse
We’ve all got our favorite characters that we think can take on anyone! Wether it be the prep time king, Batman, the mad titan Thanos, the God of War, Kratos, or even the friendly ghost, Casper. The real question though is who could actually take on the entirety of the multiverse, and which of your favorite characters can truly be crowned as the strongest!
Q. Brazee-Cannon
1-1:50pm: Keep it fresh – Creating in a series or shared universe.
Our panelists will talk about how to create in a series or a shared universe in a way that allows you to explore your voice and mesh well with the other creators.
L. Braden (M), A. Ritchey, D. Summers, H. Roberds
2-2:50pm: Teen Challenge Panel: Best Superhero
If you think you know who the best superhero is for any reason bring them to the table! If you’ve never done a challenge panel don’t worry come by and we’ll help you figure it out just come in with your favorite hero!
Q. Brazee-Cannon
3-3:50pm: Teen Improv
If you’re a fan of acting or even just being spontaneous, this may be the spot for you! We will play plenty of improv games and just have fun! The important part here is to have fun and let yourself feel free in a non judgemental environment.
Q. Brazee-Cannon, H. Brazee-Cannon
4-4:50pm: Speed Meet an Author
What it sounds like! Meet an Author and then meet another Author. (If you’re an author not assigned to this panel, feel free to just show up!)
R. Beetem (M), J. Black, R. Williscroft, R. Seagren, S. Tem, V. Robertson
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
11am-11:50am: Ed Bryant Memorial Panel
Come and reminisce about longtime attendee, panelist, guest of honor, and former convention chair Ed Bryant.
J. Gervais, S. Johnson, Connie Willis
Noon-12:50pm: Teens talk about Writing
Passions are important! If you’ve got a passion for writing, come join us to talk about it, no matter what genre writing is a fantastical way of expression and could be a strong way to explore your ideas and those passions in a judgment free zone!
Q. Brazee-Cannon
1-2:20pm: Speed Mentoring
Like speed dating, but for mentoring. Could be any topic – writing, convention running, crafting, costuming, technology, etc. Open to anyone, including those not scheduled on the panel who are interested in being a mentor.
Jo (M), E. Mah, FeyMeggan, Fred Poutre Cloven Fruit Games, H. Wahl, Jason Henderson
3-3:50pm: Kids/Teen Lightsaber battle
Younglings! It is time to put your skills to the test! Fight against people of your same skill level in a powerful lightsaber battle! Whether it be your advisory, friend or sibling May the Force be With You!
Q. Brazee-Cannon, H. Brazee-Cannon
Evergreen B
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
3-3:50pm: Pantsing Vs Plotting
Do you write by the seat of your pants? Do you carefully plot everything out in advance? Join our panelists to discuss the relative merits and drawbacks of both.
B. Dornbusch (M), D. Ausema, J. Wilker, S. Ulibarri
4-4:50pm: Readings from your first or second sale
Three of our authors will read from their first or second sale and talk about what that sale meant to them at the time.
G. Engel-Cox (M), L. Berger, C. Berg
5-5:50pm: I Was Told There’d Be No Math: The Dork Side of Crafting
Our panelists will discuss the very real math that can go into creating costumes, doing home improvement, and crafts. Bring your questions!
K. Jonuska (M), FeyMeggan, P. Charlifu, R. Lickiss
6-6:50pm: Self-Care in a World Gone Wild
*gestures vaguely at the world around us* Our panelists will discuss self-care in a world that is often stranger than fiction.
R. Friesen (M), L. Jacobs, S. Lawrence, R. Kuintzle
8-8:50pm: Malicious Actors & Social Vigilantes in Computing – what does the future hold?
Join our panelists as they discuss ripped from the headlines social vigilantes (did anyone have furries versus the Heritage Foundation on their 2024 bingo card?) and the future of malicious actors and social vigilantes in computing in general.
R. Friesen (M), D. Knippling, H. Hendrix, N. VanDerWerken
9-9:50pm: Knots, Tentacles, Tails, Tusks, Horns & More
Join our panelists as they discuss how to write believable alien and paranormal sex. Yes, anatomy discussions will be involved. Not for the faint of heart (or the under 18 crowd, please!).
D. Dvorkin (M), A. Newitz, H. Roberds, J. Lambert
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
10-10:50am: SF&F romances
Authors will read from their SF&F Romances and discuss the genre as a whole.
C. Wilson (M), R. Owens, Qwordy
11am-11:50am: Challenge Panel – Best Bond Villain
In the challenge panel, those who start on the panel many not finish. Bring your arguments for and against the best Bond villains of all time and see if you can knock a panelist off the panel and take their place.
L. Teffeau (M), S. Wahl, D. Beetem, R. Rice
Noon-12:50pm: Writing When Truth is Stranger Than Fiction
When our world is on literal and metaphorical fire, so how do you keep your works relevant/from being outdated too soon?
A. Armstrong (M), A. Burt, M. Whittaker, Connie Willis
1-1:50pm: The story that had the most rejections before sale
Authors will read from the story that got rejected the most and then discuss what they learned along the way.
A. Mayer (M), I. Tregillis, M. Rotundo
2-2:50pm: Making Sense of Reviews
How to look past review-bombing in media (goodreads, rotten tomatoes, iMDb, etc and how can you use reviews to get a sense of a thing beyond “OMG THEY PUT WOMEN AND QUEERS AND NOT WHITE PEOPLE IN MY THING”
E. Mah (M), Qwordy, A. Newitz, C. Kemp
3-3:50pm: 200 years of dinosaurs
In the 200 years since paleontology first became a field of study, we’ve learned so much about them and also how wrong some of our past scientists were. Join our panelists for a lively discussion on what we’ve learned and what we know now.
D. Dvorkin (M), L. Johnson, K. Campbell, R. Raham
4-4:50pm: 45 Years of Star Trek Movies — have we boldly gone?
What’s left to do in the cinematic star trek universe? Our panelists will debate this, as well as the varying qualities of the movies (i.e. the rumor that only the even-numbered ones are good).
C. Kemp (M), D. Summers, N. VanDerWerken, P. Hester
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
10-10:50am: Local Conventions You Should Know About
Conventions local to Colorado (and slightly beyond!) that you should know about.
Arlen, Fred Poutre Cloven Fruit Games, C. Chrissinger, A. Gaffen
11am-11:50am: 70+ Years of Horror Special Effects
It’s the 70th anniversary of Creature from the Black Lagoon, the panel will talk about how special effects in horror have changed, what’s good, what’s not, etc
E. Lell (M), T. Due, V. Calisto, H. Wahl
1-2:50pm: Art Auction
Did something you had your eye on in the art show go to auction? Well, here’s your chance to try and make it yours to take home.
M. Burgess
3-3:50pm: How to be a good Player (And maybe only slightly annoy your GM)
You know you need a DM to play, so you can’t annoy them too much. But what about annoying your fellow players, navigating the rulesets and being fun to play with in general? Let our panelists show you the way.
C. Ward (M), Fred Poutre Cloven Fruit Games, H. Werner, D. Beetem
Evergreen C/D
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
3-3:50pm: An hour with Artist GOH Rick Sternbach – Voyager at 30
Join artist GOH Rick Sternbach for Voyager at 30. For seven seasons beginning in 1995, Rick Sternbach contributed designs for starships, engineering devices, medical equipment, and weaponry seen on Star Trek Voyager. While many familiar bits of Starfleet hardware received updated looks, the U.S.S. Voyager NCC-74656 was new from her keel up, beginning with stacks of sketches and two rounds of blueprints, to reach the final result of a highly detailed five foot filming miniature. Joining in Voyager’s stories were additional physical models and computer generated ships like the Delta Flyer, the Equinox, the Prometheus, and Jupiter Station. The alien civilizations Voyager encountered all required designs with unique styles, including the Hirogen, the Voth, the Malon, and the Markonians. Starfleet and alien props were translated from pen and ink drawings to resin and metal and paint. And along the way, some distinctly non-technical art got done, like a Klingon serpent and some reptile eggs. All part of the fun.
R. Sternbach
4-4:50pm: Faster than Light Travel
Join our panelists for a science-based look at the reality, or lack thereof, behind faster than light travel.
W. McCarthy (M), A. Mayer, R. Williscroft, Courtney Willis
5-5:50pm: Roll the dice, throw the bones, pick a card, flip a coin — unique ways of decision making in plots
Everyone has their preferred method of plotting a thing — let’s go beyond the pantsing and the outlines and talk about how to make choices for your plot in a way that might give you a new perspective, or at least something to try the next time you’re stuck staring down that fork in the plot unsure which direction to go.
C. Kay (M), J.T. Evans, Fred Poutre Cloven Fruit Games, Connie Willis
6-6:50pm: Loving Everyday Machines
Our panelists discuss the every day machines that make their lives easier and brighter … sewing machines, typewriters, computers, InstaPots, etc.
M. Acevedo (M), C. Stout, Jim Barnard – Denver Space Society, Karen
7-7:50pm: Opening Ceremonies
Join us as we kick off the convention with our Guests of Honor and bestow the inaugural MileHiCon Lifetime Achievement Award
C. Anders, Jason Evans, M. Ward, A. Newitz, R. Sternbach
8-8:50pm: Pro/Fan Cabaret
See our pros and fans do their best to entertain you.
G. Hobbit (M), B. Rutledge, F. Dorchak, Jason Evans, A. Ritchey, S. Johnson, R. Rice, R. Beetem
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
10-10:50am: An hour with Author Guest of Honor Tananarive Due
Join Author GOH Tananrive Due for an hour of whatever she’d like to present.
T. Due
11am-11:50am: An Hour with Steven Barnes, Author Guest of Honor
Join Steven Barnes for a reading and lecture on the “MAGIC” Formula for self-improvement.
S. Barnes
Noon-12:50pm: Performance by Apsara
MileHiCon’s favorite dance troupe brings their own unique performance to our main stage.
Apsara
1-1:50pm: An hour with Author Guests of Honor Charlie Jane Anders and Annalee Newitz
Join our author guests of honor, Charlie Jane Anders and Annalee Newitz, as they read from a secret, a surprise, something new. It’s bound to be enjoyable.
C. Anders, A. Newitz
2-3:20pm: The Reading Game!
It’s everyone’s favorite mystery matchmaking game show, The Reading Game! Come on down to see who wins a date with a book from a mystery author.
R. Beetem (M)
3:30-4:50pm: An hour with Toastmaster Jason Henry Evans
Join our Toastmaster to test your skills at Jeopardy! and celebrate the launch of his latest book.
Jason Evans
7-8:50pm: Masquerade
It’s the MileHiCon Masquerade. Join us for the contest, the literacy auction, and any other special surprises.
D. Feldman
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
10-10:50am: Should You Start a Podcast?
Podcasts — everyone has one, but do you really need one? Our panelists will debate the merits of having a podcast and talk about their experiences with them.
C. Ward (M), L. Jacobs, S. Lawrence, S. Barnes, P. Hester, Jason Henderson
11am-11:50am: The Year in Science
Join our panelists as they discuss the past year in scientific discoveries.
D. Dvorkin (M), A. Newitz, J. Seaman, K. YU, R. Kuintzle
Noon-12:50pm: Five Kinds of Foreshadowing I Bet You’ve Never Heard Of
Join former MHC Guest of Honor and SFWA Grandmaster Connie Willis for a talk on all things foreshadowing — including ones you may never have heard or thought of!
Connie Willis
1-1:50pm: Movies and Books that Defined a Generation
The forgotten generation, X, had some seriously dark and traumatic literature and media. Our expert panelists will discuss the depths and despairs (and some highs) that defined a generation and might explain its ongoing ennui and depression (or that might be that GenX is tired of being overlooked and thus cranky!)
C. Ward (M), A. Ritchey, C. Kay, C. Anders, V. Calisto
2-2:50pm: Guest of Honor Remarks and Awards
Join our Guests of Honor for their opinions on the convention and farewell remarks.
C. Anders, Jason Evans, T. Due, S. Barnes, A. Newitz, R. Sternbach
3-3:50pm: In Defense of Popcorn Media
Popcorn media, or potato chip media, or fluffy/lightweight/smutty/etc books/movies/media and why we love them.
Jason Evans (M), J. Wilker, V. Robertson, C. Hightshoe, J. Coyle, C. Chrissinger
4-4:50pm: Closing Ceremonies & Orchids & Onions
Come and bid farewell to this year’s convention and gavel our way into next year’s! Stick around to give feedback positive & constructive on how the convention went.
S. Lawrence, Jason Evans, R. Sternbach
Evergreen E
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
3-5:50pm: New and Improved Wyrm on a String
Come and create a Loyal Dragon friend and their own dragon egg to hatch from!
A. Lickiss, J. Lickiss, R. Lickiss
6-6:50pm: Friendship Bracelets
Learn a fun new way to make your own friendship bracelets.
R. Lickiss
7-7:50pm: Flower Crowns
[$15 supply fee] Come and learn how to create your own flower crowns with wire and artificial flowers. Take home instructions and materials will be provided with your fee.
B. Warner
8-8:50pm: Storytime w/Danyda
Join MileHiCon’s favorite story teller for stories for the young and young at heart.
D. Feldman
9-10:50pm: Open Filking
Join the open filk at MileHiCon — sing or listen or play or all three. This is done in the bardic circle style.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
9-9:50am: Coloring
R. Lickiss
10-10:50am: Gentle Yoga for all Ages
A calm way to start the day with a nice gentle yoga work out.
K. Jonuska
11am-11:50am: Jedi Academy
Come and build your very own Light Sabres and learn the ways of the Jedi.
J. Lickiss, Q. Brazee-Cannon, H. Brazee-Cannon
Noon-12:50pm: Pipe Cleaner Fairies
Come and create your own fairy out of pipe cleaners and tissue paper
M. Ward
1-1:50pm: Pokemon Escape Room
Can you escape team rockets dungeon using only your wits and materials provided!? Come and see
G. Lickiss, J. Lickiss
2-2:50pm: Origami
Learn the ancient paper folding techniques to create your own masterpieces!
J. Fiala
3-3:50pm: Wacky Science
Join Josiah Seaman for wacky science you can do at home.
J. Seaman
4-4:50pm: MileHiCon Olympics
Come and try your hand at the Tribble Toss, the Five Nights at Freddy’s Dash, Hero posing and more!
A. Lickiss, J. Lickiss
5-5:50pm: Sewing Machines
Try out the old fashioned hand crank sewing machines! Make a small project to take home with you.
Courtney Willis
9-10:50pm: Open Filking
Join the open filk at MileHiCon — sing or listen or play or all three. This is done in the bardic circle style.
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
9-9:50am: Coloring
R. Lickiss
10-10:50am: The Pinhead Solar System
Join Michael Carroll for a look at the solar system via pinhead. Kids very encouraged, parents and other adults are welcome, too!
M. Carroll
11am-11:50am: Make and Take Monsters
[$25 materials fee] Make some monsters out of self drying clay
P. Charlifu
Noon-12:50pm: Star Wars Loteria
R. Beetem
1-1:50pm: Beginner Crochet
Come and learn some beginner stitches and get some ideas on your own crochet projects.
C. Sundseth
2-4:50pm: Pumpkin Carving
A Mile Hi Con tradition, come and learn pumpkin carving and win prizes for best pumpkin. Be sure to take the pumpkin home with you, just in time for Halloween!
A. Lickiss, J. Lickiss, M. Temple, N. Tegan
Evergreen F
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
3-3:50pm: 30 Years of Amazon – how has convenience changed society for good or ill?
Hard to believe it’s been three decades since Amazon burst onto the scene, changing how we view convenience. With other companies following suit, and more and more things available for delivery to the home (from groceries, to clothing, to electronics, and beyond) — how has this changed society? Who benefits from the ease and convenience and who gets left out in the cold?
E. Lell (M), B. Davis, C. Barili, S. Leininger
4-4:50pm: The TRS-80 Story
Join inventor Steve Leinenger for the “TRS-80 story” (luck is when preparation meets opportunity).
S. Leininger
5-5:50pm: AI and Climate
Join our panelists as they discuss the very real impacts of the use of AI on climate and how it might be mitigated.
D. Dvorkin (M), R. Friesen, Dr. Jim, N. VanDerWerken
6-6:50pm: The Makerspace Movement
Join our panelists to discuss all things makerspace!
C. Angel, S. Leininger, T. Roberts, Z. Alcorn
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
10-10:50am: Ways to Introduce Kids to Science in Your Own Home
Join our panelists as they talk about how to introduce kids to science using things you might have at home. Start them early in causing controlled chaos and learning the scientific method.
C. Ward (M), Cam, D. Summers, Courtney Willis
11am-11:50am: The Good, The Bad, The Anatomically Incorrect
Join Cameron Pittman and Martha MacMillan for the science behind human hybrids—like centaurs, Angel (from the X-men), and Abe Sapien—to our staff.
Cam, M. MacMillan
Noon-12:50pm: Revisiting the Gaia Hypothesis
The Gaia Hypothesis, of course, as formulated by Lynn Margulis and James Lovelock, proposed that Earth’s biosphere acts as a homeostatic mechanism to maintain conditions on Earth so that they remain suitable for life. In my books I went a step further and created a sentient Gaia disturbed with the activities of human and alien creatures inhabiting her planet and who attempts to actively curtail their behavior. The talk I envision would remind attendees about the original hypothesis and highlight themes in my Vonnegut-style stories about the critical interrelationships among all the living kingdoms on Earth (in a humorous, tongue-in-cheek way).
R. Raham
2-2:50pm: Dark Energy Update
Join astronomer David Lee Summers for a look behind the scenes at DESI, Kitt Peak National Observatory’s Dark Energy Spectrograph which is been used to create the most detailed 3-D map of the known universe ever made. What is dark energy and what have we learned about it from the survey? What else have we learned about the universe along the way? How do you even make a map of this magnitude?
D. Summers
3-3:50pm: Art for the Army
Join past Guest of Honor, artist, author, and retired Army soldier Mario Acevedo as he talks about his experiences being a soldier-artist during Desert Storm.
M. Acevedo
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
10-10:50am: Microsoft Excel for Science Fiction Writers
Join Wil McCarthy for a look at using excel for basic tasks like the motion of a spaceship under constant acceleration, or the speed of a circular orbit at different altitudes?
W. McCarthy
11am-11:50am: Star Wars in Your Backyard
The Star Wars movies introduced us to some jaw-dropping astronomical wonders, but you don’t have to watch a screen to see them. When you look up into the night sky, you are looking into space. You can see many of the REAL wonders that inspired the creators of Star Wars from your own back yard, even in the city! You don’t even need a telescope! This lively presentation links memorable settings from the Star Wars saga to their real counterparts in the night sky, and shows you how to see them.
C. Stout
Noon-12:50pm: The Ends of the Earth: Mass Extinctions Past & Present
As a phrase, “Ends of the Earth” is most commonly used in a spatial and geographic sense — particularly involving points great distances from each other. The phrase can also be used in a temporal, alternate historical, or multiversal sense too, particularly regarding the great variety of ways this planet, or its species and civilizations, can come to an end. The final and perhaps most interesting reading of the phrase involves “ends” as “goals” or “purposes”. Can a planet or its biosphere have a “purpose” or be “goal-directed”? How about individual species? Civilizations? Join us as we examine how questions of and distinctions between products and processes help us understand the nature of evolutions at various scales.
H. Hendrix
1-1:50pm: Alien Earths of our Past
Our home world was, at one time, like Venus, like Mars, like the Moon, with no oxygen, or completely frozen over, etc
M. Carroll
2-2:50pm: The world of book reviews
Learn how to get free books so you can keep up with the latest releases even when you’re broke.
A. Armstrong, J. Rew, M. Whittaker
Con Suite (1107)
FRIDAY, OCT. 25
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
9-9:50am: Kaffeeklatsch
Coffee, tea, snacks, artists, authors, and conversations in the con suite sponsored by Who Else Books.
M. Acevedo, J. Seaman, S. Barnes
10-11:20am: Stitch & B*tch
Bring your crafts and your conversation to the consuite for a social hour.
G. Hobbit (M), C. Vaughn, R. Mingault
SUNDAY, OCT. 27
9-9:50am: Kafeeklatsch
Coffee, tea, snacks, artists, authors, and conversations in the con suite sponsored by Who Else Books.
R. Kuintzle, P. Charlifu, J. Van Pelt