Minn-StF Wiki - User contributions [en]

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-05-08T21:25:22Z

Mkingsley: /* Psi Phi - Mental-Based Superpowers in Comics */

The following is the list of ideas for panels/activities at Minicon 51. If you have an idea you'd like to add, you may either edit this page or send it to the Minicon 51 programming department at programming AT minicon51.mnstf.org

==Art==

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

===Hugo Nominees Reaction Panel===
The Hugo Award nominees have just been announced! What is your reaction to the list? Will there be tears of joy or cries of anguish?

===Dead Puppies Aren't Much Fun===
How did that Sad/Rabid Puppies thing turn out? What effect will they have on future Hugos? What did they do for the Hugos awarded in 2015, and what do we forsee for the future? Early on after the Puppy Slate, there was talk of amending WSF rules. What has been proposed?

==Gaming==

===How to Make Memorable Non-Player Characters===
Non-Player Characters (NPCs) are controlled and (usually) created by the Game Master (GM). NPCs may be one of the more challenging elements for any GM to facilitate in a game, and hearing from other GMs about how they run their characters is often a good way to learn new ways to do it.

==Literature/Writing==

===Mermaids, Sirens, Selkies, and Other Water Creatures & Spirits===
Oceanic water creatures have captured the imagination of humans since antiquity, as well as fresh lake mythological creatures. What are the differences between types of water spririts, such as Naiads, Nereids, and Rusalka? Why have some been portrayed as benign and others as dangerous?

===The Moon is a Harsh Mistress - Fifty Years Later===
(needs description)

===Horror Story Lovers Not-So-Anonymous===
It can be argued that horror is one of the more maligned sub-genres of SF. Why is it so underloved? What do horror fans enjoy about a scary story? What makes a good horror story? What are some of the tropes that need to be bludgeoned with an ax?

==Media==

===How to Survive a Horror Movie===
Well now you've gone and done it, or somebody in your Scooby gang has ... you're now in the middle of a monster movie plot. How do you avoid doing something incredibly stupid that is going to result in making you a tasty, late-night snack? What gear do you need to scrounge up to be able to make it until daybreak? Should you split up (duh)?

===J Horror===
Japanese Horror is often noted for focusing on psychological or supernatural themes, though there's certainly no limit. What about J-Horror appeals to International Audiences? What American movies have been remakes of J-Horror, and what story elements were changed for American sensibilities? What recommendations do we have to share with each other?

===The Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Superheroes===
If unauthorized action figures were made, could superheroes sue for copyright infringement without revealing their identity? At the U.N. Council, does the ruler of Latveria get a vote without proper identification? Should Superman and Thor be deported as illegal immigrants? Lex Luthor asserts that an alien with near infinite power probably shouldn't be unconditionally trusted by humanity. Is he right?

===Psi Phi - Mental-Based Superpowers in Comics===
Psionics used to be huge in written SF, but appeared to drop in popularity in the late 20th century. However, in graphic media such as X-Men, psionic concepts such as Professor Xavier's telepathy and Psylocke's psychokinesis are readily accepted. Was this due to the counterculture of the 1960s when such stories originated, rites of passage for teens, or something else?

==Science and Technology==

===Ice Cream Science===
Ice cream can be used to teach about emulsions and foams in chemistry classes and demonstrate heat transfer in physics classes. What are the different types of saccharides? Why do monosaccharides such as fructose or glucose produce a much softer ice cream than disaccharides such as sucrose? What are the types of stabilizers used and what are their sources from the plant and animal kingdoms?

===25 Years Of The Hubble Telescope===
The Hubble Telescope was launched in 1990 and is still regarded as the best available space telescope. From early visual problems to the modern era of spectacular photos, what is Hubble's legacy? What did we learn from the development and implementation of Hubble? What did we learn about our universe? How has the political climate for large extra-terrestrial projects changed in the last twenty-five years? Will future telescopes have similar issues?

===The Future Of Food===
(needs description)

===The Future Of Sex===
(needs description)

===3D Printers Don't Need Special Glasses===
3D printers are rapidly becoming more affordable and available to everyone. We still shop at grocery stores instead of printing our food, we still shop for clothes 'off the rack' instead of having a computer pattern created to our measurements, and we still shop at the hardware store rather than printing out a washer when the sink starts to leak. How will 3-D printers feature in our daily lives in the years to come? What influence could they have? What areas are they already important in?

==GOH Events==

==Minicon/Mnstf History==

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-05-08T21:22:47Z

Mkingsley: /* The Moon is a Harsh Mistress - Fifty Years Later */

The following is the list of ideas for panels/activities at Minicon 51. If you have an idea you'd like to add, you may either edit this page or send it to the Minicon 51 programming department at programming AT minicon51.mnstf.org

==Art==

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

===Hugo Nominees Reaction Panel===
The Hugo Award nominees have just been announced! What is your reaction to the list? Will there be tears of joy or cries of anguish?

===Dead Puppies Aren't Much Fun===
How did that Sad/Rabid Puppies thing turn out? What effect will they have on future Hugos? What did they do for the Hugos awarded in 2015, and what do we forsee for the future? Early on after the Puppy Slate, there was talk of amending WSF rules. What has been proposed?

==Gaming==

===How to Make Memorable Non-Player Characters===
Non-Player Characters (NPCs) are controlled and (usually) created by the Game Master (GM). NPCs may be one of the more challenging elements for any GM to facilitate in a game, and hearing from other GMs about how they run their characters is often a good way to learn new ways to do it.

==Literature/Writing==

===Mermaids, Sirens, Selkies, and Other Water Creatures & Spirits===
Oceanic water creatures have captured the imagination of humans since antiquity, as well as fresh lake mythological creatures. What are the differences between types of water spririts, such as Naiads, Nereids, and Rusalka? Why have some been portrayed as benign and others as dangerous?

===The Moon is a Harsh Mistress - Fifty Years Later===
(needs description)

===Horror Story Lovers Not-So-Anonymous===
It can be argued that horror is one of the more maligned sub-genres of SF. Why is it so underloved? What do horror fans enjoy about a scary story? What makes a good horror story? What are some of the tropes that need to be bludgeoned with an ax?

==Media==

===How to Survive a Horror Movie===
Well now you've gone and done it, or somebody in your Scooby gang has ... you're now in the middle of a monster movie plot. How do you avoid doing something incredibly stupid that is going to result in making you a tasty, late-night snack? What gear do you need to scrounge up to be able to make it until daybreak? Should you split up (duh)?

===J Horror===
Japanese Horror is often noted for focusing on psychological or supernatural themes, though there's certainly no limit. What about J-Horror appeals to International Audiences? What American movies have been remakes of J-Horror, and what story elements were changed for American sensibilities? What recommendations do we have to share with each other?

===The Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Superheroes===
If unauthorized action figures were made, could superheroes sue for copyright infringement without revealing their identity? At the U.N. Council, does the ruler of Latveria get a vote without proper identification? Should Superman and Thor be deported as illegal immigrants? Lex Luthor asserts that an alien with near infinite power probably shouldn't be unconditionally trusted by humanity. Is he right?

===Psi Phi - Mental-Based Superpowers in Comics===
Psionics used to be huge in written SF, but appeared to drop in popularity in the late 20th century. However, in graphic media such as X-Men, psionic concepts such as Professor Xavier's telepathy and Psylocke's psychokenesis are readily accepted. Was this due to the counterculture of the 1960s when such stories originated, rites of passage for teens, or something else?

==Science and Technology==

===Ice Cream Science===
Ice cream can be used to teach about emulsions and foams in chemistry classes and demonstrate heat transfer in physics classes. What are the different types of saccharides? Why do monosaccharides such as fructose or glucose produce a much softer ice cream than disaccharides such as sucrose? What are the types of stabilizers used and what are their sources from the plant and animal kingdoms?

===25 Years Of The Hubble Telescope===
The Hubble Telescope was launched in 1990 and is still regarded as the best available space telescope. From early visual problems to the modern era of spectacular photos, what is Hubble's legacy? What did we learn from the development and implementation of Hubble? What did we learn about our universe? How has the political climate for large extra-terrestrial projects changed in the last twenty-five years? Will future telescopes have similar issues?

===The Future Of Food===
(needs description)

===The Future Of Sex===
(needs description)

===3D Printers Don't Need Special Glasses===
3D printers are rapidly becoming more affordable and available to everyone. We still shop at grocery stores instead of printing our food, we still shop for clothes 'off the rack' instead of having a computer pattern created to our measurements, and we still shop at the hardware store rather than printing out a washer when the sink starts to leak. How will 3-D printers feature in our daily lives in the years to come? What influence could they have? What areas are they already important in?

==GOH Events==

==Minicon/Mnstf History==

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-05-08T21:21:49Z

Mkingsley: /* Media */

The following is the list of ideas for panels/activities at Minicon 51. If you have an idea you'd like to add, you may either edit this page or send it to the Minicon 51 programming department at programming AT minicon51.mnstf.org

==Art==

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

===Hugo Nominees Reaction Panel===
The Hugo Award nominees have just been announced! What is your reaction to the list? Will there be tears of joy or cries of anguish?

===Dead Puppies Aren't Much Fun===
How did that Sad/Rabid Puppies thing turn out? What effect will they have on future Hugos? What did they do for the Hugos awarded in 2015, and what do we forsee for the future? Early on after the Puppy Slate, there was talk of amending WSF rules. What has been proposed?

==Gaming==

===How to Make Memorable Non-Player Characters===
Non-Player Characters (NPCs) are controlled and (usually) created by the Game Master (GM). NPCs may be one of the more challenging elements for any GM to facilitate in a game, and hearing from other GMs about how they run their characters is often a good way to learn new ways to do it.

==Literature/Writing==

===Mermaids, Sirens, Selkies, and Other Water Creatures & Spirits===
Oceanic water creatures have captured the imagination of humans since antiquity, as well as fresh lake mythological creatures. What are the differences between types of water spririts, such as Naiads, Nereids, and Rusalka? Why have some been portrayed as benign and others as dangerous?

===The Moon is a Harsh Mistress - Fifty Years Later===

===Horror Story Lovers Not-So-Anonymous===
It can be argued that horror is one of the more maligned sub-genres of SF. Why is it so underloved? What do horror fans enjoy about a scary story? What makes a good horror story? What are some of the tropes that need to be bludgeoned with an ax?

==Media==

===How to Survive a Horror Movie===
Well now you've gone and done it, or somebody in your Scooby gang has ... you're now in the middle of a monster movie plot. How do you avoid doing something incredibly stupid that is going to result in making you a tasty, late-night snack? What gear do you need to scrounge up to be able to make it until daybreak? Should you split up (duh)?

===J Horror===
Japanese Horror is often noted for focusing on psychological or supernatural themes, though there's certainly no limit. What about J-Horror appeals to International Audiences? What American movies have been remakes of J-Horror, and what story elements were changed for American sensibilities? What recommendations do we have to share with each other?

===The Legal Rights and Responsibilities of Superheroes===
If unauthorized action figures were made, could superheroes sue for copyright infringement without revealing their identity? At the U.N. Council, does the ruler of Latveria get a vote without proper identification? Should Superman and Thor be deported as illegal immigrants? Lex Luthor asserts that an alien with near infinite power probably shouldn't be unconditionally trusted by humanity. Is he right?

===Psi Phi - Mental-Based Superpowers in Comics===
Psionics used to be huge in written SF, but appeared to drop in popularity in the late 20th century. However, in graphic media such as X-Men, psionic concepts such as Professor Xavier's telepathy and Psylocke's psychokenesis are readily accepted. Was this due to the counterculture of the 1960s when such stories originated, rites of passage for teens, or something else?

==Science and Technology==

===Ice Cream Science===
Ice cream can be used to teach about emulsions and foams in chemistry classes and demonstrate heat transfer in physics classes. What are the different types of saccharides? Why do monosaccharides such as fructose or glucose produce a much softer ice cream than disaccharides such as sucrose? What are the types of stabilizers used and what are their sources from the plant and animal kingdoms?

===25 Years Of The Hubble Telescope===
The Hubble Telescope was launched in 1990 and is still regarded as the best available space telescope. From early visual problems to the modern era of spectacular photos, what is Hubble's legacy? What did we learn from the development and implementation of Hubble? What did we learn about our universe? How has the political climate for large extra-terrestrial projects changed in the last twenty-five years? Will future telescopes have similar issues?

===The Future Of Food===
(needs description)

===The Future Of Sex===
(needs description)

===3D Printers Don't Need Special Glasses===
3D printers are rapidly becoming more affordable and available to everyone. We still shop at grocery stores instead of printing our food, we still shop for clothes 'off the rack' instead of having a computer pattern created to our measurements, and we still shop at the hardware store rather than printing out a washer when the sink starts to leak. How will 3-D printers feature in our daily lives in the years to come? What influence could they have? What areas are they already important in?

==GOH Events==

==Minicon/Mnstf History==

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-29T17:22:28Z

Mkingsley: /* Literature/Writing */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-27T16:13:59Z

Mkingsley: /* Gaming */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-27T16:04:05Z

Mkingsley: /* Ice Cream Science */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-24T18:05:10Z

Mkingsley: /* Science and Technology */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-24T17:41:46Z

Mkingsley: /* Hugo Nominees Reaction Panel */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-24T17:40:15Z

Mkingsley: /* Media */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-24T17:21:41Z

Mkingsley: /* Literature/Writing */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-24T17:00:06Z

Mkingsley: /* Fandom and Zeitgeist */

M51 Programming Brainstorm

2015-04-24T16:58:56Z

Mkingsley: /* Fandom and Zeitgeist */

The following is the list of ideas for panels/activities at Minicon 51. If you have an idea you'd like to add, you may either edit this page or send it to the Minicon 51 programming department.

==Art==

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

Hugo Nominees Reaction Panel
The Hugo Award nominees have just been announced. What is your reaction to the list? Will there be tears of joy or cries of anguish?

==Gaming==

==Literature/Writing==

==Media==

==Science and Technology==

==GOH Events==

==Minicon/Mnstf History==

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-07-08T14:14:00Z

Mkingsley:

Information about how to create an account and edit this page is at the bottom of the [[Main_Page]]. Folks are also welcome to submit ideas to the programming department at programming@minicon49.mnstf.org

==GOH Specific Ideas==

===Catherynne M. Valente Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-Hugo nominated and Hugo Award winner Catherynne M. Valente

===SF Squeecast===
Experience or discuss the previous incarnations of the Hugo awarding winning Podcast with SF Squeecast co-host Catherynne M. Valente.

===Janny Wurts Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-award winning author The Cycle of Fire trilogy, Wars of Light and Shadow, and Empire Trilogy.

===Don Maitz Art Slideshow===
Art by Don Maitz including Fantasy, Maritime, and who could forget, the "A little Captain in ya" Captain Morgan.

===Janny Wurts Art Slideshow===
Art by Janny Wurts including Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Art of the Cosmos

===Catherynne M. Valente Concert===
In addition to her writing credits, Ms. Valente is also an accomplished musician. Would she be interested in a spot in the concert schedule?

===Live Art Demonstration===
Don Maitz

===Live Art Demonstration===
Janny Wurts

===The History of the Prester John Legend===
From the 12th to 17th centuries, the legends of priest-king Prester John were popular in Europe. The story captured the imagination of Europeans, who translated it into many languages and embellished upon the original story. What made this story go viral (by medieval standards)? How did the legend influence exploration, European expansion, and exploitation? Cat Valente has written two Prester John novels, The Habitation of the Blessed and The Folded World, with a third novel forthcoming (hopefully). She has also uploaded a YouTube video, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lu_A72N10/ Prester John: International Man of Mystery], explaining the history of the medieval legend of Prester John, as told by action figures.

===Imagining the Conjurer===
Don Maitz has several pieces of artwork depicting wizards, mages, and sorcerers. What information can be garnered of the personalities represented in his depictions of the conjurer?

==Art==

===Industrial Strength Super Bubbles===
Minicon will be later in the year than it usually is. Maybe we can combine this with Richard Tatge's Bubbles in an outdoor venue.

===Knitting: It's Not Just a Hobby; It’s a Post-Apocalyptic Survival Skill===
Learn the basics of knitting, and the role this skill plays in the lifestyle of SF fans. In the event of a worldwide catastrophe, what benefits would those of us with strong, nimble fingers bring to the new society?

===Book mutilation as transformative work===
This hands on roundtable event will allow participants to carve, sculpt, etch, shape and alter books into new works of art. Books, glue, scissors, knives and other craft supplies will be provided.

===Puppet Sprint===
An idea for Next Generation programming. Participants write a puppet script to be performed for kids in the Rumpus Room. Need puppet wrangler and director.

===Don Maitz painting demo===
Don Maitz has asked for a 3 hour block for a painting demo.

===Crafting in Spaaaaace===
Through archaeology, it's been determined that explorers had a tradition of crafting (''e.g.'' all male nautical crews used needles and scissors for repair). It seems logical to assume that crafting (''e.g.'' [http://science.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/05/14/18254269-first-quilter-in-space-nasa-astronaut-plans-to-turn-orbital-rags-to-stitches?lite/ quilting]) will be used in the space frontier as well. What type of crafting will appear in space travel and colonization? What are the best skills to learn and teach in establishing a new colony? Why isn't crafting seen in media SF?

===For The Sake Of Art===
Creativity will help you be a better problem solver! Scientific research shows that older people who practice creativity have better health! In today's economy, no one can afford NOT to be innovative! Well, what if there was no benefit to art? Would it still be worth doing? Is the "value" of art greater if it communicates to a wide audience? Does an artist have a responsibility to make their work accessible enough to be easily appreciated? What is "art for art's sake" or "l'art pour l'art"? Is this concept necessarily anti-utilitarian? As one example of cultural demands for art to be useful, in 2013, local musician Venus DeMars and her spouse were told by the Minnesota Department of Revenue to pay over $100,000 in back taxes because their work isn't profitable enough. Apparently, if art is not profit driven, it's not even art by some standards. Is that the biggest load of bullshit ever, or is it just in the top five art bullshits? What are the top five art bullshits?

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

===Would You Rather?===
Which sounds more appealing ... driving a tractor-trailer full of gasoline through Mad Max territory or driving away from a Tyrannosaurus Rex in Jurassic Park? Would you rather comb Beetlejuice's hair or brush a dragon's teeth? Watch as panelists contemplate SFnal dilemmas from literature and media.

===Rock and Roll in Speculative Fiction -- It's Hip to be Square===
When we think of fantasy or the future, we don't think of rock and roll. But starting in the 1950s, SF has combined the influences of hedonistic young whippersnappers with fantastic narratives. A discussion on the rebellious spirit of rock and its influence in SF.

===So, you're being invaded by space aliens===
In the coming days, how will humans adapt to the alien invasion? Will we band together as a species, or continue fighting amongst ourselves? What alien strategies should we plan for? Of what interest are we to the aliens? Are they here to help us, to mine our resources, or 'to serve man?'

===All About Coffee===
During the American Revolution, terrorists dumped tea into Boston Harbor, and tea became symbolic of our British overlords. Thus began our love affair with what is arguably America's favorite legal drug delivery system. Let's talk about the history of coffee, coffee in fiction, coffee in fandom, coffee in pseudoscience, great recipes containing coffee, how to make the perfect cup, and the chemical process of run on sentences.

===Patent Trolls and Copyright Trolls===
Patent trolls and Copyright Trolls are hideous creatures who dwell beneath decency, and pursue financial gain to which they have little or no claim. Recent estimated costs of defending against a patent infringement suit is around $1 million before trial, and $2.5 million total. Copyright Trolls often exploit the default avoidance-of-legal-nature of privately owned social media. Even the most blatantly non-meritorious suits are often settled, just to avoid the potential cost of trial. What is corporate Patent trolling? What is Copyright trolling? How are they similar or different? How do patent trolls and copyright trolls exploit the legal system? Most importantly, how do we hunt them to extinction?

==Gaming==

===The Gamification of Everything===
Collectively, the planet is now spending more than 3 billion hours a week gaming. What accounts for what appears to be an accelerating mass exodus from reality? Should we be concerned about this, perhaps try to find ways to block people from escaping into games? Or should we use everything we know about game design to fix what's wrong with real life: structuring school and work activities to offer clear achievable goals, immediate feedback, and the opportunity to keep leveling up forever? This argument, vividly presented by video game designer Jane McGonigal in her book ''Is Reality Broken?'' is gaining traction in all sorts of places these days, from 21st century marketing campaigns to the park in Sweden with the whistling trash can.

===Matt McMillan Gaming Panel===
Placeholder

===Healthy Online Gaming; Just One More Turn===
How much time each week do you spend as your MMO self? Does your social life revolve around people you've never met IRL? What are some strategies for balancing an online world and a meat world? Is it considered "balance" if you've met your MMO friends in meat space?

==Literature/Writing==

===Maenads, Oracles, and Other Madwomen of Myth & Folklore===
A bit touched, or privy to knowledge unknown to her female cohorts? A discussion of the frenzied, fanatical, and eccentric women that appear in the literature of the fantastic.

===Page 117===
Somewhere between "It was a dark & stormy night" and “the butler did it" lies page 117. If all you knew about a novel was the contents of page 117, would you read and/or buy it? Page 117s of well-known novels and fresh works are read aloud and discussed by the panelists and audience members.

===Terra Incognita: The Role of Maps in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature===
A discussion of maps used in speculative fiction, either as endpieces or as part of the story. What are good (and bad) examples of maps of imaginary worlds? Can the inclusion of maps create problems? What can maps tell us of the modes of transportation, natural setting, and politics of the realm? Are maps for modern fantasy novels too modern (''i.e.'' accurate)?

===Books That Can Change Your Life===
Fiction can open a door, allowing a reader to explore new ideas and see things that didn't seem to be there before. Some books have a profound effect on their readers. How'd that happen?

===I Read a Book and 20 Years Later it was a Different Book===
Sometimes books don't survive the test of time as well as we would like. Sometimes they age like fine wine. How does the reader change a book, just in the reading? What does a reader bring to the experience?

===What the Heck is the Deal with Speculative Poetry?===
April is National Poetry Month, wherein the Academy of American Poets tries to widen the attention of poetry to individuals and media. But within the SF community, appreciators of poetry are not abundant. Is specualtive poetry written for a specific subset of readers, and inaccessible to the general community? Reading poetry is a skill; how can that be encouraged?

===Why Fairy Tales Are For Adults (Again)===
Fairy tales survive by adapting across cultures and history, and don't belong only to children. Their themes and tropes can be found in "adults-only" media like ''Game of Thrones'', ''True Blood'', and ''Once Upon a Time''. Fairy tales have been used by parents to establish a moral compass by "scaring children into good behavior"; how can this type of storytelling be used to examine cultural anxieties, or to benefit adults as well?

===Atheist Writing Panel===
A discussion of atheist writing, including non-fiction about atheism, atheism as presented in fiction work, and work by atheist authors.

===Flash Fiction Teen Writing Spree===
Write a short story of under 1000 words in 24 hours. Topic will be provided. At-con Judges needed.

===Including disability and disabled characters in fiction===
More than ten percent of Americans live with an apparent disability - yet films, television, comics, and traditional books are seriously lagging in their inclusion in media. Even when disabled characters are included, they are sometimes portrayed as broken, pitiable, or irreparably damaged. What can authors do to include characters with disability in positive ways? What are some positive and negative examples of disabled characters in fiction?

===Women in YA===
While the adult bestseller author list can often be described as a sausage-fest, the bestsellers in YA are overwhelmingly written by women. Popular series like Hunger Games, Harry Potter, Twilight, and Divergent are just a few examples. YA is arguably dominated by women authors, and most often marketed to young women and girls. Why do we think this is? Are the portrayals of women and girls in YA fiction positive portrayals? Should they be?

===Soundtracks for Books===
Movie/TV soundtracks have been used to enhance role-playing games; how about for reading enjoyment? Some novelist have included playlists in their novels and blogs. What type of music is good to write/read to? Do readers add their own soundtrack when they read? Based on a panel at FinnCon 2013.

==Media==

===Sherlock, The Series===
Thoughts on the Benedict Cumberbatch series. How well are these stories translating to the modern era?

==Science and Technology==

===M49 at M49===
M49 is a elliptical galaxy in the Virgo cluster, and one of many objects that is barely visible in the city night sky with a telescope. An interactive discussion of parking lot astronomy.

===Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss===
The first institutions recognized as universities were established during the Middle Ages. How did the traditional four elements form the [http://www.kheper.net/topics/typology/four_humours.html "four humours"] theory of medicine? What was the accepted worldview for citizens of the medieval world? Was it based on natural observation, superstition, or something else? What was the influence upon the arts, architecture, and literature of the time?

===Two photography panels that might be one photography panel===
Perhaps these are similar enough to be combined. Perhaps not.

====Learning How Cameras and Imaging Software "Lie" to You====
A lot of astro-based pseudoscience relies on images (There are cities on Mars! NASA is hiding ancient ruins on the moon!). What exactly is the process for converting photons to pixels? How (and why) do scientists apply filters, resizing, levels, and curves? And why doesn't NASA just give the public the original images?

====Lies, Liars, and Photography====
The 2013 World Press Photo Foundation "Photo Of The Year" winner was falsely accused of being a composite image. Though the original image scene had not been altered, some work had been done with the contrast and color. How much is too much? Where is the line where digital manipulation becomes deception? At what point do photos become as untrustworthy as drawings? Are we ever going to reach that point? Are we already there?

===Show And Tell - Outdated Devices===
What currently antiquated, but former high-tech device do you still use? What is the advantage of keeping the old tech up and running? What are some of our most admired feats of technology that barely garner a second glance these days? Note: Minicon will not be responsible for the conveyance costs associated with any demonstration items, especially things that are embossed with the words "UNIVAC."

==Readings==

==Signings==

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-05-23T13:14:12Z

Mkingsley: /* Science and Technology */

Information about how to create an account and edit this page is at the bottom of the [[Main_Page]]. Folks are also welcome to submit ideas to the programming department at programming@minicon49.mnstf.org

==GOH Specific Ideas==

===Catherynne M. Valente Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-Hugo nominated and Hugo Award winner Catherynne M. Valente

===SF Squeecast===
Experience or discuss the previous incarnations of the Hugo awarding winning Podcast with SF Squeecast co-host Catherynne M. Valente.

===Janny Wurts Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-award winning author The Cycle of Fire trilogy, Wars of Light and Shadow, and Empire Trilogy.

===Don Maitz Art Slideshow===
Art by Don Maitz including Fantasy, Maritime, and who could forget, the "A little Captain in ya" Captain Morgan.

===Janny Wurts Art Slideshow===
Art by Janny Wurts including Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Art of the Cosmos

===Catherynne M. Valente Concert===
In addition to her writing credits, Ms. Valente is also an accomplished musician. Would she be interested in a spot in the concert schedule?

===Live Art Demonstration===
Don Maitz

===Live Art Demonstration===
Janny Wurts

===The History of the Prester John Legend===
From the 12th to 17th centuries, the legends of priest-king Prester John were popular in Europe. The story captured the imagination of Europeans, who translated it into many languages and embellished upon the original story. What made this story go viral (by medieval standards)? How did the legend influence exploration, European expansion, and exploitation? Cat Valente has written two Prester John novels, The Habitation of the Blessed and The Folded World, with a third novel forthcoming (hopefully). She has also uploaded a YouTube video, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lu_A72N10/ Prester John: International Man of Mystery], explaining the history of the medieval legend of Prester John, as told by action figures.

===Imagining the Conjurer===
Don Maitz has several pieces of artwork depicting wizards, mages, and sorcerers. What information can be garnered of the personalities represented in his depictions of the conjurer?

==Art==

===Industrial Strength Super Bubbles===
Minicon will be later in the year than it usually is. Maybe we can combine this with Richard Tatge's Bubbles in an outdoor venue.

===Knitting: It's Not Just a Hobby; It’s a Post-Apocalyptic Survival Skill===
Learn the basics of knitting, and the role this skill plays in the lifestyle of SF fans. In the event of a worldwide catastrophe, what benefits would those of us with strong, nimble fingers bring to the new society?

===Book mutilation as transformative work===
This hands on roundtable event will allow participants to carve, sculpt, etch, shape and alter books into new works of art. Books, glue, scissors, knives and other craft supplies will be provided.

===Puppet Sprint===
An idea for Next Generation programming. Participants write a puppet script to be performed for kids in the Rumpus Room. Need puppet wrangler and director.

===Don Maitz painting demo===
Don Maitz has asked for a 3 hour block for a painting demo.

===Lies, Liars, and Photography===
The 2013 World Press Photo Foundation "Photo Of The Year" winner was falsely accused of being a composite image. Though the original image scene had not been altered, some work had been done with the contrast and color. How much is too much? Where is the line where digital manipulation becomes deception? At what point do photos become as untrustworthy as drawings? Are we ever going to reach that point? Are we already there?

===Crafting in Spaaaaace===
Through archaeology, it's been determined that explorers had a tradition of crafting (''e.g.'' all male nautical crews used needles and scissors for repair). It seems logical to assume that crafting (''e.g.'' [http://science.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/05/14/18254269-first-quilter-in-space-nasa-astronaut-plans-to-turn-orbital-rags-to-stitches?lite/ quilting]) will be used in the space frontier as well. What type of crafting will appear in space travel and colonization? What are the best skills to learn and teach in establishing a new colony? Why isn't crafting seen in media SF?

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

===Would You Rather?===
Which sounds more appealing ... driving a tractor-trailer full of gasoline through Mad Max territory or driving away from a Tyrannosaurus Rex in Jurassic Park? Would you rather comb Beetlejuice's hair or brush a dragon's teeth? Watch as panelists contemplate SFnal dilemmas from literature and media.

===Rock and Roll in Speculative Fiction -- It's Hip to be Square===
When we think of fantasy or the future, we don't think of rock and roll. But starting in the 1950s, SF has combined the influences of hedonistic young whippersnappers with fantastic narratives. A discussion on the rebellious spirit of rock and its influence in SF.

===So, you're being invaded by space aliens===
In the coming days, how will humans adapt to the alien invasion? Will we band together as a species, or continue fighting amongst ourselves? What alien strategies should we plan for? Of what interest are we to the aliens? Are they here to help us, to mine our resources, or 'to serve man?'

===All About Coffee===
During the American Revolution, terrorists dumped tea into Boston Harbor, and tea became symbolic of our British overlords. Thus began our love affair with what is arguably America's favorite legal drug delivery system. Let's talk about the history of coffee, coffee in fiction, coffee in fandom, coffee in pseudoscience, great recipes containing coffee, how to make the perfect cup, and the chemical process of run on sentences.

==Gaming==

===The Gamification of Everything===
Collectively, the planet is now spending more than 3 billion hours a week gaming. What accounts for what appears to be an accelerating mass exodus from reality? Should we be concerned about this, perhaps try to find ways to block people from escaping into games? Or should we use everything we know about game design to fix what's wrong with real life: structuring school and work activities to offer clear achievable goals, immediate feedback, and the opportunity to keep leveling up forever? This argument, vividly presented by video game designer Jane McGonigal in her book ''Is Reality Broken?'' is gaining traction in all sorts of places these days, from 21st century marketing campaigns to the park in Sweden with the whistling trash can.

===Matt McMillan Gaming Panel===
Placeholder

==Literature/Writing==

===Maenads, Oracles, and Other Madwomen of Myth & Folklore===
A bit touched, or privy to knowledge unknown to her female cohorts? A discussion of the frenzied, fanatical, and eccentric women that appear in the literature of the fantastic.

===Page 117===
Somewhere between "It was a dark & stormy night" and “the butler did it" lies page 117. If all you knew about a novel was the contents of page 117, would you read and/or buy it? Page 117s of well-known novels and fresh works are read aloud and discussed by the panelists and audience members.

===Terra Incognita: The Role of Maps in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature===
A discussion of maps used in speculative fiction, either as endpieces or as part of the story. What are good (and bad) examples of maps of imaginary worlds? Can the inclusion of maps create problems? What can maps tell us of the modes of transportation, natural setting, and politics of the realm? Are maps for modern fantasy novels too modern (''i.e.'' accurate)?

===Books That Can Change Your Life===
Fiction can open a door, allowing a reader to explore new ideas and see things that didn't seem to be there before. Some books have a profound effect on their readers. How'd that happen?

===I Read a Book and 20 Years Later it was a Different Book===
Sometimes books don't survive the test of time as well as we would like. Sometimes they age like fine wine. How does the reader change a book, just in the reading? What does a reader bring to the experience?

===What the Heck is the Deal with Speculative Poetry?===
April is National Poetry Month, wherein the Academy of American Poets tries to widen the attention of poetry to individuals and media. But within the SF community, appreciators of poetry are not abundant. Is specualtive poetry written for a specific subset of readers, and inaccessible to the general community? Reading poetry is a skill; how can that be encouraged?

===Why Fairy Tales Are For Adults (Again)===
Fairy tales survive by adapting across cultures and history, and don't belong only to children. Their themes and tropes can be found in "adults-only" media like ''Game of Thrones'', ''True Blood'', and ''Once Upon a Time''. Fairy tales have been used by parents to establish a moral compass by "scaring children into good behavior"; how can this type of storytelling be used to examine cultural anxieties, or to benefit adults as well?

===Atheist Writing Panel===
A discussion of atheist writing, including non-fiction about atheism, atheism as presented in fiction work, and work by atheist authors.

===Flash Fiction Teen Writing Spree===
Write a short story of under 1000 words in 24 hours. Topic will be provided. At-con Judges needed.

==Media==

===Sherlock, The Series===
Thoughts on the Benedict Cumberbatch series. How well are these stories translating to the modern era?

==Science and Technology==

===M49 at M49===
M49 is a elliptical galaxy in the Virgo cluster, and one of many objects that is barely visible in the city night sky with a telescope. An interactive discussion of parking lot astronomy.

===Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss===
The first institutions recognized as universities were established during the Middle Ages. How did the traditional four elements form the [http://www.kheper.net/topics/typology/four_humours.html "four humours"] theory of medicine? What was the accepted worldview for citizens of the medieval world? Was it based on natural observation, superstition, or something else? What was the influence upon the arts, architecture, and literature of the time?

===Learning How Cameras and Imaging Software "Lie" to You===
A lot of astro-based pseudoscience relies on images (There are cities on Mars! NASA is hiding ancient ruins on the moon!). What exactly is the process for converting photons to pixels? How (and why) do scientists apply filters, resizing, levels, and curves? And why doesn't NASA just give the public the original images?

==Readings==

==Signings==

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-05-23T12:51:04Z

Mkingsley: /* Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss */

Information about how to create an account and edit this page is at the bottom of the [[Main_Page]]. Folks are also welcome to submit ideas to the programming department at programming@minicon49.mnstf.org

==GOH Specific Ideas==

===Catherynne M. Valente Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-Hugo nominated and Hugo Award winner Catherynne M. Valente

===SF Squeecast===
Experience or discuss the previous incarnations of the Hugo awarding winning Podcast with SF Squeecast co-host Catherynne M. Valente.

===Janny Wurts Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-award winning author The Cycle of Fire trilogy, Wars of Light and Shadow, and Empire Trilogy.

===Don Maitz Art Slideshow===
Art by Don Maitz including Fantasy, Maritime, and who could forget, the "A little Captain in ya" Captain Morgan.

===Janny Wurts Art Slideshow===
Art by Janny Wurts including Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Art of the Cosmos

===Catherynne M. Valente Concert===
In addition to her writing credits, Ms. Valente is also an accomplished musician. Would she be interested in a spot in the concert schedule?

===Live Art Demonstration===
Don Maitz

===Live Art Demonstration===
Janny Wurts

===The History of the Prester John Legend===
From the 12th to 17th centuries, the legends of priest-king Prester John were popular in Europe. The story captured the imagination of Europeans, who translated it into many languages and embellished upon the original story. What made this story go viral (by medieval standards)? How did the legend influence exploration, European expansion, and exploitation? Cat Valente has written two Prester John novels, The Habitation of the Blessed and The Folded World, with a third novel forthcoming (hopefully). She has also uploaded a YouTube video, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lu_A72N10/ Prester John: International Man of Mystery], explaining the history of the medieval legend of Prester John, as told by action figures.

===Imagining the Conjurer===
Don Maitz has several pieces of artwork depicting wizards, mages, and sorcerers. What information can be garnered of the personalities represented in his depictions of the conjurer?

==Art==

===Industrial Strength Super Bubbles===
Minicon will be later in the year than it usually is. Maybe we can combine this with Richard Tatge's Bubbles in an outdoor venue.

===Knitting: It's Not Just a Hobby; It’s a Post-Apocalyptic Survival Skill===
Learn the basics of knitting, and the role this skill plays in the lifestyle of SF fans. In the event of a worldwide catastrophe, what benefits would those of us with strong, nimble fingers bring to the new society?

===Book mutilation as transformative work===
This hands on roundtable event will allow participants to carve, sculpt, etch, shape and alter books into new works of art. Books, glue, scissors, knives and other craft supplies will be provided.

===Puppet Sprint===
An idea for Next Generation programming. Participants write a puppet script to be performed for kids in the Rumpus Room. Need puppet wrangler and director.

===Don Maitz painting demo===
Don Maitz has asked for a 3 hour block for a painting demo.

===Lies, Liars, and Photography===
The 2013 World Press Photo Foundation "Photo Of The Year" winner was falsely accused of being a composite image. Though the original image scene had not been altered, some work had been done with the contrast and color. How much is too much? Where is the line where digital manipulation becomes deception? At what point do photos become as untrustworthy as drawings? Are we ever going to reach that point? Are we already there?

===Crafting in Spaaaaace===
Through archaeology, it's been determined that explorers had a tradition of crafting (''e.g.'' all male nautical crews used needles and scissors for repair). It seems logical to assume that crafting (''e.g.'' [http://science.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/05/14/18254269-first-quilter-in-space-nasa-astronaut-plans-to-turn-orbital-rags-to-stitches?lite/ quilting]) will be used in the space frontier as well. What type of crafting will appear in space travel and colonization? What are the best skills to learn and teach in establishing a new colony? Why isn't crafting seen in media SF?

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

===Would You Rather?===
Which sounds more appealing ... driving a tractor-trailer full of gasoline through Mad Max territory or driving away from a Tyrannosaurus Rex in Jurassic Park? Would you rather comb Beetlejuice's hair or brush a dragon's teeth? Watch as panelists contemplate SFnal dilemmas from literature and media.

===Rock and Roll in Speculative Fiction -- It's Hip to be Square===
When we think of fantasy or the future, we don't think of rock and roll. But starting in the 1950s, SF has combined the influences of hedonistic young whippersnappers with fantastic narratives. A discussion on the rebellious spirit of rock and its influence in SF.

===So, you're being invaded by space aliens===
In the coming days, how will humans adapt to the alien invasion? Will we band together as a species, or continue fighting amongst ourselves? What alien strategies should we plan for? Of what interest are we to the aliens? Are they here to help us, to mine our resources, or 'to serve man?'

===All About Coffee===
During the American Revolution, terrorists dumped tea into Boston Harbor, and tea became symbolic of our British overlords. Thus began our love affair with what is arguably America's favorite legal drug delivery system. Let's talk about the history of coffee, coffee in fiction, coffee in fandom, coffee in pseudoscience, great recipes containing coffee, how to make the perfect cup, and the chemical process of run on sentences.

==Gaming==

===The Gamification of Everything===
Collectively, the planet is now spending more than 3 billion hours a week gaming. What accounts for what appears to be an accelerating mass exodus from reality? Should we be concerned about this, perhaps try to find ways to block people from escaping into games? Or should we use everything we know about game design to fix what's wrong with real life: structuring school and work activities to offer clear achievable goals, immediate feedback, and the opportunity to keep leveling up forever? This argument, vividly presented by video game designer Jane McGonigal in her book ''Is Reality Broken?'' is gaining traction in all sorts of places these days, from 21st century marketing campaigns to the park in Sweden with the whistling trash can.

===Matt McMillan Gaming Panel===
Placeholder

==Literature/Writing==

===Maenads, Oracles, and Other Madwomen of Myth & Folklore===
A bit touched, or privy to knowledge unknown to her female cohorts? A discussion of the frenzied, fanatical, and eccentric women that appear in the literature of the fantastic.

===Page 117===
Somewhere between "It was a dark & stormy night" and “the butler did it" lies page 117. If all you knew about a novel was the contents of page 117, would you read and/or buy it? Page 117s of well-known novels and fresh works are read aloud and discussed by the panelists and audience members.

===Terra Incognita: The Role of Maps in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature===
A discussion of maps used in speculative fiction, either as endpieces or as part of the story. What are good (and bad) examples of maps of imaginary worlds? Can the inclusion of maps create problems? What can maps tell us of the modes of transportation, natural setting, and politics of the realm? Are maps for modern fantasy novels too modern (''i.e.'' accurate)?

===Books That Can Change Your Life===
Fiction can open a door, allowing a reader to explore new ideas and see things that didn't seem to be there before. Some books have a profound effect on their readers. How'd that happen?

===I Read a Book and 20 Years Later it was a Different Book===
Sometimes books don't survive the test of time as well as we would like. Sometimes they age like fine wine. How does the reader change a book, just in the reading? What does a reader bring to the experience?

===What the Heck is the Deal with Speculative Poetry?===
April is National Poetry Month, wherein the Academy of American Poets tries to widen the attention of poetry to individuals and media. But within the SF community, appreciators of poetry are not abundant. Is specualtive poetry written for a specific subset of readers, and inaccessible to the general community? Reading poetry is a skill; how can that be encouraged?

===Why Fairy Tales Are For Adults (Again)===
Fairy tales survive by adapting across cultures and history, and don't belong only to children. Their themes and tropes can be found in "adults-only" media like ''Game of Thrones'', ''True Blood'', and ''Once Upon a Time''. Fairy tales have been used by parents to establish a moral compass by "scaring children into good behavior"; how can this type of storytelling be used to examine cultural anxieties, or to benefit adults as well?

===Atheist Writing Panel===
A discussion of atheist writing, including non-fiction about atheism, atheism as presented in fiction work, and work by atheist authors.

===Flash Fiction Teen Writing Spree===
Write a short story of under 1000 words in 24 hours. Topic will be provided. At-con Judges needed.

==Media==

===Sherlock, The Series===
Thoughts on the Benedict Cumberbatch series. How well are these stories translating to the modern era?

==Science and Technology==

===M49 at M49===
M49 is a elliptical galaxy in the Virgo cluster, and one of many objects that is barely visible in the city night sky with a telescope. An interactive discussion of parking lot astronomy.

===Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss===
The first institutions recognized as universities were established during the Middle Ages. How did the traditional four elements form the [http://www.kheper.net/topics/typology/four_humours.html "four humours"] theory of medicine? What was the accepted worldview for citizens of the medieval world? Was it based on natural observation, superstition, or something else? What was the influence upon the arts, architecture, and literature of the time?

==Readings==

==Signings==

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-05-23T12:49:24Z

Mkingsley: /* Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss */

Information about how to create an account and edit this page is at the bottom of the [[Main_Page]]. Folks are also welcome to submit ideas to the programming department at programming@minicon49.mnstf.org

==GOH Specific Ideas==

===Catherynne M. Valente Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-Hugo nominated and Hugo Award winner Catherynne M. Valente

===SF Squeecast===
Experience or discuss the previous incarnations of the Hugo awarding winning Podcast with SF Squeecast co-host Catherynne M. Valente.

===Janny Wurts Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-award winning author The Cycle of Fire trilogy, Wars of Light and Shadow, and Empire Trilogy.

===Don Maitz Art Slideshow===
Art by Don Maitz including Fantasy, Maritime, and who could forget, the "A little Captain in ya" Captain Morgan.

===Janny Wurts Art Slideshow===
Art by Janny Wurts including Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Art of the Cosmos

===Catherynne M. Valente Concert===
In addition to her writing credits, Ms. Valente is also an accomplished musician. Would she be interested in a spot in the concert schedule?

===Live Art Demonstration===
Don Maitz

===Live Art Demonstration===
Janny Wurts

===The History of the Prester John Legend===
From the 12th to 17th centuries, the legends of priest-king Prester John were popular in Europe. The story captured the imagination of Europeans, who translated it into many languages and embellished upon the original story. What made this story go viral (by medieval standards)? How did the legend influence exploration, European expansion, and exploitation? Cat Valente has written two Prester John novels, The Habitation of the Blessed and The Folded World, with a third novel forthcoming (hopefully). She has also uploaded a YouTube video, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lu_A72N10/ Prester John: International Man of Mystery], explaining the history of the medieval legend of Prester John, as told by action figures.

===Imagining the Conjurer===
Don Maitz has several pieces of artwork depicting wizards, mages, and sorcerers. What information can be garnered of the personalities represented in his depictions of the conjurer?

==Art==

===Industrial Strength Super Bubbles===
Minicon will be later in the year than it usually is. Maybe we can combine this with Richard Tatge's Bubbles in an outdoor venue.

===Knitting: It's Not Just a Hobby; It’s a Post-Apocalyptic Survival Skill===
Learn the basics of knitting, and the role this skill plays in the lifestyle of SF fans. In the event of a worldwide catastrophe, what benefits would those of us with strong, nimble fingers bring to the new society?

===Book mutilation as transformative work===
This hands on roundtable event will allow participants to carve, sculpt, etch, shape and alter books into new works of art. Books, glue, scissors, knives and other craft supplies will be provided.

===Puppet Sprint===
An idea for Next Generation programming. Participants write a puppet script to be performed for kids in the Rumpus Room. Need puppet wrangler and director.

===Don Maitz painting demo===
Don Maitz has asked for a 3 hour block for a painting demo.

===Lies, Liars, and Photography===
The 2013 World Press Photo Foundation "Photo Of The Year" winner was falsely accused of being a composite image. Though the original image scene had not been altered, some work had been done with the contrast and color. How much is too much? Where is the line where digital manipulation becomes deception? At what point do photos become as untrustworthy as drawings? Are we ever going to reach that point? Are we already there?

===Crafting in Spaaaaace===
Through archaeology, it's been determined that explorers had a tradition of crafting (''e.g.'' all male nautical crews used needles and scissors for repair). It seems logical to assume that crafting (''e.g.'' [http://science.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/05/14/18254269-first-quilter-in-space-nasa-astronaut-plans-to-turn-orbital-rags-to-stitches?lite/ quilting]) will be used in the space frontier as well. What type of crafting will appear in space travel and colonization? What are the best skills to learn and teach in establishing a new colony? Why isn't crafting seen in media SF?

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

===Would You Rather?===
Which sounds more appealing ... driving a tractor-trailer full of gasoline through Mad Max territory or driving away from a Tyrannosaurus Rex in Jurassic Park? Would you rather comb Beetlejuice's hair or brush a dragon's teeth? Watch as panelists contemplate SFnal dilemmas from literature and media.

===Rock and Roll in Speculative Fiction -- It's Hip to be Square===
When we think of fantasy or the future, we don't think of rock and roll. But starting in the 1950s, SF has combined the influences of hedonistic young whippersnappers with fantastic narratives. A discussion on the rebellious spirit of rock and its influence in SF.

===So, you're being invaded by space aliens===
In the coming days, how will humans adapt to the alien invasion? Will we band together as a species, or continue fighting amongst ourselves? What alien strategies should we plan for? Of what interest are we to the aliens? Are they here to help us, to mine our resources, or 'to serve man?'

===All About Coffee===
During the American Revolution, terrorists dumped tea into Boston Harbor, and tea became symbolic of our British overlords. Thus began our love affair with what is arguably America's favorite legal drug delivery system. Let's talk about the history of coffee, coffee in fiction, coffee in fandom, coffee in pseudoscience, great recipes containing coffee, how to make the perfect cup, and the chemical process of run on sentences.

==Gaming==

===The Gamification of Everything===
Collectively, the planet is now spending more than 3 billion hours a week gaming. What accounts for what appears to be an accelerating mass exodus from reality? Should we be concerned about this, perhaps try to find ways to block people from escaping into games? Or should we use everything we know about game design to fix what's wrong with real life: structuring school and work activities to offer clear achievable goals, immediate feedback, and the opportunity to keep leveling up forever? This argument, vividly presented by video game designer Jane McGonigal in her book ''Is Reality Broken?'' is gaining traction in all sorts of places these days, from 21st century marketing campaigns to the park in Sweden with the whistling trash can.

===Matt McMillan Gaming Panel===
Placeholder

==Literature/Writing==

===Maenads, Oracles, and Other Madwomen of Myth & Folklore===
A bit touched, or privy to knowledge unknown to her female cohorts? A discussion of the frenzied, fanatical, and eccentric women that appear in the literature of the fantastic.

===Page 117===
Somewhere between "It was a dark & stormy night" and “the butler did it" lies page 117. If all you knew about a novel was the contents of page 117, would you read and/or buy it? Page 117s of well-known novels and fresh works are read aloud and discussed by the panelists and audience members.

===Terra Incognita: The Role of Maps in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature===
A discussion of maps used in speculative fiction, either as endpieces or as part of the story. What are good (and bad) examples of maps of imaginary worlds? Can the inclusion of maps create problems? What can maps tell us of the modes of transportation, natural setting, and politics of the realm? Are maps for modern fantasy novels too modern (''i.e.'' accurate)?

===Books That Can Change Your Life===
Fiction can open a door, allowing a reader to explore new ideas and see things that didn't seem to be there before. Some books have a profound effect on their readers. How'd that happen?

===I Read a Book and 20 Years Later it was a Different Book===
Sometimes books don't survive the test of time as well as we would like. Sometimes they age like fine wine. How does the reader change a book, just in the reading? What does a reader bring to the experience?

===What the Heck is the Deal with Speculative Poetry?===
April is National Poetry Month, wherein the Academy of American Poets tries to widen the attention of poetry to individuals and media. But within the SF community, appreciators of poetry are not abundant. Is specualtive poetry written for a specific subset of readers, and inaccessible to the general community? Reading poetry is a skill; how can that be encouraged?

===Why Fairy Tales Are For Adults (Again)===
Fairy tales survive by adapting across cultures and history, and don't belong only to children. Their themes and tropes can be found in "adults-only" media like ''Game of Thrones'', ''True Blood'', and ''Once Upon a Time''. Fairy tales have been used by parents to establish a moral compass by "scaring children into good behavior"; how can this type of storytelling be used to examine cultural anxieties, or to benefit adults as well?

===Atheist Writing Panel===
A discussion of atheist writing, including non-fiction about atheism, atheism as presented in fiction work, and work by atheist authors.

===Flash Fiction Teen Writing Spree===
Write a short story of under 1000 words in 24 hours. Topic will be provided. At-con Judges needed.

==Media==

===Sherlock, The Series===
Thoughts on the Benedict Cumberbatch series. How well are these stories translating to the modern era?

==Science and Technology==

===M49 at M49===
M49 is a elliptical galaxy in the Virgo cluster, and one of many objects that is barely visible in the city night sky with a telescope. An interactive discussion of parking lot astronomy.

===Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss===
The first institutions recognized as universities were established during the Middle Ages. How did the traditional four elements form the [http://www.kheper.net/topics/typology/four_humours.html/ "four humours"] theory of medicine? What was the accepted worldview for citizens of the medieval world? Was it based on natural observation, superstition, or something else? What was the influence upon the arts, architecture, and literature of the time?

==Readings==

==Signings==

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-05-22T21:07:30Z

Mkingsley: /* Crafting in Spaaaaace */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-05-22T20:31:27Z

Mkingsley: /* Crafting in Spaaaaace */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-05-22T20:30:05Z

Mkingsley: /* Crafting in Spaaaaace */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-05-22T20:25:30Z

Mkingsley: /* Art */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-25T12:27:36Z

Mkingsley: /* Media */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-25T12:27:27Z

Mkingsley: /* Science and Technology */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-25T12:26:38Z

Mkingsley: /* Fandom and Zeitgeist */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-25T12:26:10Z

Mkingsley: /* Literature/Writing */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-25T12:19:16Z

Mkingsley: /* Literature/Writing */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-16T16:02:18Z

Mkingsley:

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-12T13:12:40Z

Mkingsley:

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-08T15:46:34Z

Mkingsley:

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-05T21:41:40Z

Mkingsley: /* Bedtime Stories */

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-05T14:45:45Z

Mkingsley: /* Terra Incgonita: The Role of Maps in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature */

==GOH Specific Ideas==

===Catherynne M. Valente Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-Hugo nominated and Hugo Award winner Catherynne M. Valente

===SF Squeecast===
Discuss the Hugo awarding winning Podcast with SF Squeecast co-host Catherynne M. Valente. Maybe a podcast can happen during the panel.

===Janny Wurts Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-award winning author The Cycle of Fire trilogy, Wars of Light and Shadow, and Empire Trilogy.

===Don Maitz Art===
Art by Don Maitz including Fantasy, Maritime, and who could forget, the "A little Captain in ya" Captain Morgan.

===Janny Wurts Art===
Art by Janny Wurts including Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Art of the Cosmos

===Catherynne M. Valente Concert===
In addition to her writing credits, Ms. Valente is also an accomplished musician. Would she be interested in a spot in the concert schedule?

===Live Art Demonstration===
Don Maitz, Janny Wurts or both at the same time.

===The History of the Prester John Legend===

From the 12th to 17th centuries, the legends of priest-king Prester John were popular in Europe. The story captured the imagination of Europeans, who translated it into many languages and embellished upon the original story. What made this story go viral (by medieval standards)? How did the legend influence exploration, European expansion, and exploitation? Cat Valente has written two Prester John novels, The Habitation of the Blessed and The Folded World, with a third novel forthcoming (hopefully). She has also uploaded a YouTube video, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lu_A72N10/ Prester John: International Man of Mystery], explaining the history of the medieval legend of Prester John, as told by action figures.

===Imagining the Conjurer===
Don Maitz has several pieces of artwork depicting wizards, mages, and sorcerers. What information can be garnered of the personalities represented in his depictions of the conjurer?

==Art==

===Industrial Strength Super Bubbles===
Minicon will be later in the year than it usually is. Maybe we can combine this with Richard Tatge's Bubbles in an outdoor venue.

===Knitting: It's Not Just a Hobby; It’s a Post-Apocalyptic Survival Skill===
Learn the basics of knitting, and the role this skill plays in the lifestyle of SF fans.

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

==Gaming==

===Matt McMillan Gaming Panel===
Placeholder

==Literature/Writing==

===Maenads, Oracles, and Other Madwomen of Myth & Folklore===
A bit touched, or privy to knowledge unknown to her female cohorts? A discussion of the frenzied, fanatical, and eccentric women that appear in the literature of the fantastic.

===Page 117===
Somewhere between "It was a dark & stormy night" and “the butler did it" lies page 117. If all you knew about a novel was the contents of page 117, would you read and/or buy it? Page 117s of well-known novels and fresh works are read aloud and discussed by the panelists and audience members.

===Terra Incognita: The Role of Maps in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature===
A discussion of maps used in speculative fiction, either as endpieces or as part of the story. What are good (and bad) examples of maps of imaginary worlds? Can the inclusion of maps create problems? What can maps tell us of the modes of transportation, natural setting, and politics of the realm? Are maps for modern fantasy novels too modern (''i.e.'' accurate)?

==Media==

==Science and Technology==

===M49 at M49===
M49 is a elliptical galaxy in the Virgo cluster, and one of many objects that is barely visible in the city night sky with a telescope. An interactive discussion of parking lot astronomy.

===Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss===
The first institutions recognized as universities were established during the Middle Ages. What was the accepted worldview for citizens of the medieval world? Was it based on natural observation, superstition, or something else? What was the influence upon the arts, architecture, and literature of the time?

==Readings==

==Signings==

M49 Programming Brainstorm

2013-04-05T14:42:14Z

Mkingsley:

==GOH Specific Ideas==

===Catherynne M. Valente Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-Hugo nominated and Hugo Award winner Catherynne M. Valente

===SF Squeecast===
Discuss the Hugo awarding winning Podcast with SF Squeecast co-host Catherynne M. Valente. Maybe a podcast can happen during the panel.

===Janny Wurts Interview===
Attend an interview with the multi-award winning author The Cycle of Fire trilogy, Wars of Light and Shadow, and Empire Trilogy.

===Don Maitz Art===
Art by Don Maitz including Fantasy, Maritime, and who could forget, the "A little Captain in ya" Captain Morgan.

===Janny Wurts Art===
Art by Janny Wurts including Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Art of the Cosmos

===Catherynne M. Valente Concert===
In addition to her writing credits, Ms. Valente is also an accomplished musician. Would she be interested in a spot in the concert schedule?

===Live Art Demonstration===
Don Maitz, Janny Wurts or both at the same time.

===The History of the Prester John Legend===

From the 12th to 17th centuries, the legends of priest-king Prester John were popular in Europe. The story captured the imagination of Europeans, who translated it into many languages and embellished upon the original story. What made this story go viral (by medieval standards)? How did the legend influence exploration, European expansion, and exploitation? Cat Valente has written two Prester John novels, The Habitation of the Blessed and The Folded World, with a third novel forthcoming (hopefully). She has also uploaded a YouTube video, [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8lu_A72N10/ Prester John: International Man of Mystery], explaining the history of the medieval legend of Prester John, as told by action figures.

===Imagining the Conjurer===
Don Maitz has several pieces of artwork depicting wizards, mages, and sorcerers. What information can be garnered of the personalities represented in his depictions of the conjurer?

==Art==

===Industrial Strength Super Bubbles===
Minicon will be later in the year than it usually is. Maybe we can combine this with Richard Tatge's Bubbles in an outdoor venue.

===Knitting: It's Not Just a Hobby; It’s a Post-Apocalyptic Survival Skill===
Learn the basics of knitting, and the role this skill plays in the lifestyle of SF fans.

==Fandom and Zeitgeist==

==Gaming==

===Matt McMillan Gaming Panel===
Placeholder

==Literature/Writing==

===Maenads, Oracles, and Other Madwomen of Myth & Folklore===
A bit touched, or privy to knowledge unknown to her female cohorts? A discussion of the frenzied, fanatical, and eccentric women that appear in the literature of the fantastic.

===Page 117===
Somewhere between "It was a dark & stormy night" and “the butler did it" lies page 117. If all you knew about a novel was the contents of page 117, would you read and/or buy it? Page 117s of well-known novels and fresh works are read aloud and discussed by the panelists and audience members.

===Terra Incgonita: The Role of Maps in Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature===
A discussion of maps used in speculative fiction, either as endpieces or as part of the story. What are good (and bad) examples of maps of imaginary worlds? Can the inclusion of maps create problems? What can maps tell us of the modes of transportation, natural setting, and politics of the realm? Are maps for modern fantasy novels too modern (''i.e.'' accurate)?

==Media==

==Science and Technology==

===M49 at M49===
M49 is a elliptical galaxy in the Virgo cluster, and one of many objects that is barely visible in the city night sky with a telescope. An interactive discussion of parking lot astronomy.

===Getting Medieval (Science) on Your *ss===
The first institutions recognized as universities were established during the Middle Ages. What was the accepted worldview for citizens of the medieval world? Was it based on natural observation, superstition, or something else? What was the influence upon the arts, architecture, and literature of the time?

==Readings==

==Signings==