You are a monarch, like your parents before you, a ruler of a small pleasant kingdom of rivers and evergreens. Unlike your parents, however, you have hopes and dreams! You want a DOMINION! (Base game plus all expansions) Panelists: The Source (mod)
The early bird gets to play on the newest computer!! Come up to LAN gaming starting at 11:00 AM on Thursday morning to get the best seat in the house and kick your friends' tailfeathers in any of the games on our PCs. Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:00am - 12:30pm CDT
DoubleTree 2206
Gentlemen, start your engines! Pedestrians, watch your @$$es! Race across the country in your weaponized roadster, lighting up your opponents and scoring points by killing pedestrians. It’s all about the size of your gun and the speed of your ride! Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
When devils slay the knightly leader of Arwyll Stead and orcs from the Hell's Fury tribe attack the town, all hope seems lost for the brave people living on Lastwall's border. (5 players) Panelists: Jeffrey Reed (mod)
Quests are a series of 1 hour adventures meant to take new players through their first experiences with the Pathfinder Society. Will run every hour throughout the day for anyone wishing to play, simply ask in 2203. (Up to 6 players per session) Panelists: Pathfinder Society (mod)
Each year, The Source brings a library of games to CONvergence for folks to play in their room on the Gaming floor - table 2205c has been reserved for this purpose throughout the convention. Games from this collection need to stay in 2205. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
It's fun. It's therapeutic. It's Zen. It does not matter your motive, coloring is fun! Come kick off the start of Convergence with some fun, geeky coloring sheets and oodles of coloring tools. We’ll have sheets for all ages! Panelists: Sandbox Staff
And how do we get . . . where? What places around the world are must-see destinations for geeks? Panelists: Miriam Krause, Sarah Humphries (mod), Peter Lane, Windy Bowlsby, Rebecca Barney
The all-female Ghostbusters premieres this summer. Let's talk about our expectations and fears for the movie as well as the gamut of reactions, from the hilarious tantrums (no, it won't ruin your childhood--you don't have to see it) to the hopes for more. Panelists: Dave Margosian, Adam J. Whitlatch, Matt Gamble (mod), Samantha Bitner, Crystal Huff
Sci-fi has given us stories filled with themes of acceptance. Worlds where mutants, aliens, and mud-bloods struggle to live among humankind while being different. Panelists discuss how sci-fi impacts our views of diversity and reflects our world. Panelists: Lathan Murrell, Dave Romm, Derek "Duck" Washington, Kerry Peterson
Come and discuss the physics and technology behind the possibilities of interstellar travel. Panelists: Melanie Galloway, Steven Theiss, Bob Johnson (mod), Dan Berliner
Coming of age stories are common in genre fiction. What does it mean to become an adult, both in fiction and reality? Panelists: Camille Griep, Joan Marie Verba, Renate Fiora (mod), Bradford Walker, Lee Blauersouth
Panspermia is the concept that the building blocks of life could have been delivered to Earth via comet or meteorite impact. Come for a panel discussing this hypothesis, and learn about the support for and against its validity. Panelists: John Shea, Nicole Gugliucci, Michael Kingsley
Learn tips on shooting at CONvergence and elsewhere. Everything from manners to technical questions answered. Panelists: Roger Pavelle, Jamie Bernstein, Josiah Mannion
Thursday June 30, 2016 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
Considering a Plug-In Electric vehicle or curious to learn more? Panelists will share their experiences and enthusiasm for EV-related topics including 2nd gen. 200+ mile range vehicles, deployment of fast charging infrastructure in Minnesota, and more. Panelists: Birch Hansen, Colin Lee, Emily Herron, Ralph Jenson, Mark Hanson
There's been a lot of discussion about the ability to reproduce experiments, especially in the social sciences. How serious is the problem? What can be done? Panelists: PZ Myers, Vernon McIntosh, Laura Okagaki-Vraspir, Peter Larsen, Topher Hunter (mod)
How is it that Disney's Gargoyles still captures our imaginations over two decades since it first aired, and in what ways does it accomplish things that contemporary cartoons still struggle with? Gargoyles is still relevant. Let's explore why that is. Panelists: Greg Weisman, Christopher Jones, Chandra Reyer, Alana Profit, Patrick Fisher
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip and the weirdest news stories. (Up to 12 players, ages 13+) Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. (Up to 8 players, ages 13+) Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Deck Building Game set in the Marvel Comics Universe. Battle other players with heroes, villains, and if you’re strong enough, take on the Mastermind! (4 players, ages 16+) Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
Players make the best romantic pairings between cultural and pop icon the “matchmaker” selects and one from their hand. Depending on the group, we’ll play rounds with or without scenario-based (“Meet the Parents”) storytelling. (Up to 6 players) Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
One of the most popular games in the world. Team tournament matches will be held during the morning, with finals on Saturday afternoon. Also available for team play during open gaming/late night gaming. PERSONAL ACCOUNT REQUIRED** Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Room open for casual Magic: the Gathering play - this is the time to playtest, fishbowl, trade, and generally prepare for the weekend's events. First event begins at 6 pm. Panelists:
Upon hearing that the daughter of an eminent and wealthy of citizen of Sauerton has gone missing, the Pathfinders rush to her aid in the hope of earning her father’s goodwill and support in upcoming endeavors. (Up to 5 players) Panelists: Hilary Moon Murphy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Have you ever wanted to be in a radio play, performing beside a professional voice actor, playing one of your favorite characters? Now is your chance! We are holding auditions for a live performance at CONvergence! Panelists: Greg Weisman, Christopher Jones
How do you start your own YouTube channel? We'll talk about everything from making your own videos and starting a YouTube channel to getting subscriptions and more. Panelists: Tactical Pinup, Nicholas Boden, Kyle Dekker (mod), Luxander Pond
In addition to being one of the most prolific stuntmen in the world, Hal Needham directed films where cars crashed with wild abandon and Burt Reynolds winked a lot. Join us for a discussion of his life and movies, from Cannonball Run to Megaforce. Panelists: Melissa Kaercher, Derek Mahr, C. Robert Cargill
Sometimes, you're on a panel that starts to go wrong: some guy starts talking over all the women in the room or the person who volunteered to moderate the panel turns out to be a blowhard. How do you fix this on the fly? And not be That Guy? Panelists: John Seavey, Sigrid Ellis (mod), Mark Oshiro, Michael Carus, Stephanie Zvan
Thursday June 30, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
Bridging the generations of fandom: from the foundations nearly a century old to the new generations and what they're bringing to the mix. Reflect, hear the in-jokes, learn the secret handshake, and share what fandom means to you and where its going. Panelists: Elise Matthesen, Catherine McFerrin, Trisha Lynn (mod), Kiah Nelson, Bess Stuvenoxend
It's one of the great unspoken rules of sci-fi and fantasy: don't let your characters' names make the reader wonder whether your cat walked over the keyboard. How can you create inventive, original, internally consistent names for your world? Panelists: J.M. Lee, Kathryn Sullivan, Tyler Tork (mod), Emma Bull
Hurry to the panel and discuss the most recent season of the CW show. Panelists: Mark Goldberg, Jim Kakalios, Geoffrey Hofman-Frethem, Adam Lueck, Lee Harris (mod)
First there was The Walking Dead, now Fear the Walking Dead. Discuss both shows, what works and doesn't in both timelines, and how they may have gone "off-script" from the comics and why. Panelists: Patrick Marsh, Stephan Stomberg, Kris Coulter (mod)
From the Christ-like figure of Superman to the metaphysical adventures of the Enterprise, fantasy and science fiction have long explored religious and philosophical questions. What is it about SFF that touches our spirituality? Panelists: Amanda Larsen, Cetius d'Raven (mod), PZ Myers, phillip andrew bennett low, Kristina Halseth
The local nonprofit GPS exists to support our local fan community. Find out how they can connect you to your fandoms and grow partnerships. Learn about their events and activities. Panelists: Jody Wurl, Ann Roubik, Seth Chmelik, Terri Schultz
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories (12 players, ages 13 and up) Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Storytelling game based on the H.P. Lovecraft Universe. Players play cards as they tell their story – if they can link multiple cards together, they receive a bonus of some sort vs. the Great Old Ones. (Up to 5 players, age 16+) Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Each player will get to use 1 of the different themes of munchkin. Compete to be the first to level 10. Fight monsters, level up, equip gear, loot treasure, and mess with other players. Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Red Flags is a card game where players pick qualities that would make a perfect date for the “single” player. Then an opponent brings up the date’s “red flag.” The date might “love to cuddle” and is an “astronaut” but what if they “bring mom to the date? Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
Take the twenty-card decks of two factions, shuffle them into a forty-card deck, then compete to smash more Bases than your opponents! Each faction brings a different mechanism to the table, and every combination brings a different play experience. Panelists: The Source (mod)
High school student Takumi Fujiwara works as a gas station attendant by day and a tofu delivery boy by night. Little does he know, his precise driving skills and his father's modified Toyota Sprinter AE86 Trueno make him the best amateur road racer on Mt. Akina's highway. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Build spaceships, rockets, jets, boats, trains or other vehicles using cardboard tubes of various sizes and other craft supplies. Panelists: John Garner
Recently Marvel & DC have been promising more diversity in characters, creators, genres, and story direction. What’s truly new, different, and moving forward? What’s more of the same? And what are other publishers offering that challenges the status quo? Panelists: Meredith Gillies, Jonathan Palmer, Jordan West (mod), Christopher Jones
Many games are developed around popular books, films and television series. How do designers immerse themselves in universes others have created, and how do they bring something new to the table? Panelists: Mark Redacted (mod), Monica Valentinelli, Bob Johnson, Bradford Walker, Cam Banks
HHGG is a radio series, a book series, a tv series, a record and a movie, all of which are different. The movie left out a lot, but added a few new wrinkles. We will discuss the similarities and our favorite versions and try not to hear any Vogon poets. Panelists: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Dave Romm, Beth Voigt, Lee Harris
Authors discuss writing animals and plants that behave the way animals and plants really behave. This panel includes discussion on some good and bad examples in media and literature as well as resources for writers to do the appropriate research. Panelists: Camille Griep, Elizabeth Bear, Anthony Eichenlaub, Michael Carus (mod), Melissa Olson
Come and discuss the physics and technology behind the possibilities of time travel. Panelists: Melanie Galloway, Renate Fiora (mod), Dan Berliner, Jim Kakalios, Greg Weisman
Cultures worldwide have different myths and legends about twins. How much can science explain? Do twins share a special connection that transcends scientific understanding? This panel will explore myths and facts about twins. Panelists: PZ Myers, Kathryn Sullivan, Windy Bowlsby
Mulder and Scully reunite in a series of new adventures. How do you think it compares to the first 9 seasons? What worked and what didn't? Panelists: Jennifer Lundstrom, Allyson Cygan, Alex Musial, Stephan Stomberg, Mark Oshiro
What happens when the pattern you need for a costume doesn't exist and/or come in your size? Join Snow and Brichibi Cosplays as they discuss up-sizing patterns, how to combine different pattern pieces, and how to make your costume work for your body type. Panelists: Briana Lawrence, Jessica Walsh
Thursday June 30, 2016 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories! (Up to 12 players, ages 13+) Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. (Up to 8 players, ages 12+) Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
An updated version of Counter-Strike, this offering features revamped versions of classic maps, as well as several brand new maps, weapons, characters, and game modes, as well as cosmetic items like weapon skins added post-release. Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Come play (or learn) some quick, affordable, travel-sized games (Sushi-Go, Fluxx, Love Letter). Games will be started as folks arrive; no need to stay for the whole block – drop in and out as you please. Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Megalopolis is in trouble! Tachyon, Bunker and The Mighty Ra must team up to defend the city against the evil Baron Blade! Sentinels is a cooperative card game where superheroes come together to save the day. (Up to 5 players, age 13+) Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Players are merchants, who see Prince John’s visit to Nottingham as an opportunity to make a quick profit by selling goods in the bustling city, but all goods must come through the city gate, under the watchful eye of the Sheriff! (4 players, ages 16+) Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
Have you ever wanted to play a magic wielding, two headed, zombie with an inferiority complex in a Steampunk world and was told by the GM "NO, you can't play that!!"? Then this is the game for you. 5 players, age 13+ Panelists: Kenneth Justiniano (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
*Schedule Change* Apathetic swordsman Van is on a journey to kill his fiancé's murderer. The only characteristic he has to go by is that the murderer has a claw for an arm. Panelists:
Searching for 2 gem keys to unlock the Vault of Larin Karr, the party is also en route to stop a diabolical telescope from being built which will summon a host of devils to raze the land... A long-running CONvergence D&D 3.5 adventure! Ages 12+ welcome. Panelists: Burl Zorn (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Design and build your own mini hovercraft while learning how floating on a bed of air is a frictionless (if impractical) way of getting around. Race your friends and experiment with modifications to improve speed and control. Panelists: Brianne Bilyeu
Is the Sy-Fy Channel the new drive-in? Deliberately cheesy B movies have been made for decades, but now they are receiving promotion as bad movies right from the start. Sharknado, anyone? Temporary trend or filling a void? Panelists: Jack Reher, Joel Arnold, Axel Kohagen, Matt Gamble (mod), Niles Schwartz
Vehicular combat has been featured in SF stories by such authors as Harlan Ellison and Alan Dean Foster, and has been a feature in RPG games (e.g., Car Wars) and video games. How and why did the popularity of autodueling games change with the times? Panelists: Jeremy Stomberg, Bradford Walker, Perrin Klumpp (mod)
Found the character you’d like to cosplay but don’t know where to start? Making your first costume can be fun and easy. Sewing, prop making, scouring thrift stores, armor making and more! Panelists: Jess Dunow, Melissa Sowers, Laura Oliver, Gregory Laffrenzen, Bess Stuvenoxend
A discussion of the creative process across different industries, science, technology, and the arts. Brainstorming and problem solving. What tools are similar, what are different? Is there a particular mindset one needs to cultivate? Let's explore! Panelists: Christine Mitzuk, Scott Keever, Carrie Patel (mod), Carl Zachmann
Is crowdfunding your best bet? Which crowdfunding option should you choose? And how do you get from unknown to funded? The promise and perils of the crowdfunding journey will be explored. Panelists: Marie Porter, Anj Olsen, Chrysoula Tzavelas, Stephanie Zvan (mod), Tania Richter
Since 2009, Andrew Hussie's manic and groundbreaking webcomic has steamrolled into internet fame. Now that Homestuck is at its conclusion, it's time to look back: Why did it become so popular? What impact has it had? And really: what was it all about? Panelists: Sasha, Graham Barr, Dirk Ykema, Brittany Nickel
Most of us take the bad with the good in our entertainment, but some issues are dealbreakers. What was the last straw for you in books, movies, or TV shows that you just couldn’t get past? Panelists: Camille Griep (mod), Aimee Kuzenski, Mark McPherson, Ryan Placzkowski, Melissa Olson
Come talk about what happens during the Masquerade, the fabulous Costume Wars and Art of the Dress Fashion Show and with the department staff. Ask questions. Plan your entry. Find out the details of how the whole process works. Panelists: Gregory de Danann
Meteorite collecting is a lifelong exploration into both history and science. Come see a collection of hundreds of specimens and a comprehensive presentation on the topic. Stay after for a chance to hold a piece of The Moon and Mars! Panelists: John Shea
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. Up to 12 players, age 13+. Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
The forest is filled with all kinds of monsters who waited patiently for you to build your castle and train your soldiers. Now they want a piece of you! Work with your friends to defend your castle against the roaring, angry hordes! (5 players, age 16+) Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. Up to 8 players, ages 12+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Munchkin, with a twist! Each player uses 1 of the different themes of munchkin, and players compete to be the first to level 10. Fight the monsters, level up, equip gear, loot treasure, and (of course) mess with other players in true Munchkin tradition. Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (this showing is captioned) Panelists:
The Pathfinders' task is simple: clear the abandoned manor in Cheliax of any remaining threats from the Age of Lost Omens before the Blakroses move in. Unfortunately, the estate hasn't sat empty as long as folks think it has. 5 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Keith Apperson (mod)
Earth needs YOU to hunt down and take revenge for what they did to our home world! Become a Marine, go to strange, exotic worlds aaaaaaand basically kill everything that moves. (Up to 10 players, ages 13+) Panelists: Robert "Ski" Cudinski (mod)
The Company of the Talon wishes to join Deadlystrike. To be accepted each company must endure a trial for the honor of inclusion. So ready blade, firearm, spell, and warmachine... and prepare for the very worst Immoren has to offer! (8 players, age 13+) Panelists: Jeb Worrall (mod)
The Company of the Talon wishes to join Deadlystrike. To be accepted, each company must endure a trial for the honor of inclusion. So ready blade, firearm, spell, and war machine, and prepare for the very worst Immoren has to offer! (8 players, ages 13+) Panelists: Jeremy Thigpen (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Humans and demons lived in harmony until demons started attacking humans and plotting to unleash Gyumao, an evil demon imprisoned for millennia. Now a rogue priest must team up with three demons and embark on a perilous journey to the west to stop the resurrection of Gyumao and restore the balance between humans and demons. Panelists:
Big Fun Radio Funtime presents old time radio plays for a new time audience. Sit back, close your eyes, and let the funny sounds transport you to different places and times. There might be aliens, vampires, monster trucks, or even shoe salesmen but it will all be fun. Maybe even Big Fun! Presented by Fearless Comedy Productions. Panelists: Angela Fox, Dawn Krosnowski, Charles Hubbell, Tim Wick, Christopher Jones, Windy Bowlsby, Salsa Sterling
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Kick your CONvergence off with a little Magic! $15 entry (tickets at Dreamer's Vault Games dealers' booth), 3 rounds of play. Prizes will be 1 pack per round won; anyone who goes 3-0 will get an add'l booster pack. Plan ahead - event starts at 6 PM. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (this showing is captioned) Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Hello, fellow rocketeers! The CONvergence Opening Ceremony is our official kick-off for the convention. Come meet our Guests of Honor after they have their personal hovercrafts parked by our robot valet, and learn what exciting adventures are in store for the rest of your journey as we kick off this year's event. Panelists: Amal El-Mohtar, Amy Shira Teitel, Cam Banks, Christopher Jones, Joseph Scrimshaw, Ytasha Womack, Daren Dochterman, Mark Oshiro, Dawn Krosnowski, Greg Weisman
With the popularity of genetic testing (23&Me) and the discovery of direct gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9, potential dystopian futures written as sci-fi may yet come to fruition. What are the potential ethical implications of using these tools? Panelists: Destiny Ziebol, Vernon McIntosh, Kris Coulter, Bryan Jones, Stephanie Zvan (mod)
Forget 1984; we've moved into a world where we constantly monitor and report on ourselves, often with wearable electronics. Is it making a difference in health? Do physicians have any idea what to do with this data? Panelists: Jamie Bernstein, Maggie Schultz, Sara McAtee
We have so many choices beyond network TV that we can't possibly watch it all. How do you choose which shows to watch next and which to pass on . . . for now? Panelists: David Rust (mod), Catherine McFerrin, Ryan Placzkowski, Jen Manna
What laws of physics would need to be bent, broken, or worked around to make it possible to travel through time TARDIS-style? Where is the line between science and fiction in how the TARDIS uses space, including within? Panelists: Lathan Murrell, Steve Manfred (mod), Ryan Consell, Renate Fiora, Dan Berliner
We'll discuss the best, the worst, and the meh in television science fiction, from The Man in the High Castle and the new Minority Report, to Dark Matter. Panelists: Dave Margosian, Elliott Wilcoxon, Lee Harris (mod)
Where's my Squirrel Girl movie? What books and comics haven't been made into films but would be awesome on the big screen? Panelists: Kelly Jo Ernst, Michael R. Underwood (mod), Taylor Cisco, Matt Gamble, Kevin Eldridge
Is the Snowpiercer train plausible? How about a train between planets? Let's talk about all the trains that appear in our favorite books, movies, and TV shows. Panelists: Patrick Marsh, Katie Dahl, Michael Kingsley, Rebecca Barney
Most professional careers have their ups and downs. The average writer experiences lots of highs and lows. This panel will focus on how to survive and thrive on the roller coaster. Panelists: Carrie Patel, Eli Effinger-Weintraub, Jay Gallentine (mod), Chrysoula Tzavelas
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip and the weirdest news stories. Up to 12 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Reach for the sky, varmint! What better way to celebrate America's birthday than a good old-fashioned Wild-west gunfight? High Noon Saloon is the fast-paced card game of quick draws and hot lead. Ages 13+, all materials provided. Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Heroes: Characters from Blizzard games all fighting together in one MOBA. Hearthstone: Blizzard's free to play CCG. Matches throughout the day, with possible tournament style brackets available on request. PERSONAL ACCOUNT REQUIRED for both games! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Tournament-flavor Munchkin - come get your card game on with CONvergence’s annual Munchkin Tourney. Tournament rules may be available at the front desk on 22, but no guarantees. First round may run long due to number of participants. Panelists: Andy Mullin (mod)
A Pathfinder leading a diplomatic envoy from Five Kings Mountains has gone missing, and the balance of power hangs on her successful rescue. The party must enter Razmiran, locate the missing group, and escape with their lives. 5 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Jeffrey Reed (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Following an encounter with a UFO, Mutta Nanba and his younger brother Hibito vowed to become astronauts, but 19 years later Mutta has lost sight of his dream. After losing his job at an automotive company, however, Mutta might get the chance to catch up to his brother. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Grab your event ticket from the Dreamer's Vault Games booth, bring your Standard-Legal deck, c'mon up and throw down! $8 entry for 4 rounds of play, and prizes are at least two booster packs for everyone! Plan ahead - event starts at 8 pm! Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Join GPS & Greg Weisman (aka "Fancy Bastard") for his second ever Fancy Bastard Pie Competition. Bring your best pie from home and Fancy Bastard will choose his favorite. Winner will be be granted 1 spoiler request. Come ready to eat some pie. Panelists: Greg Weisman
Why handshakes, bathing, and thank-you notes still matter, as do ethics in the digital world. Let's discuss how we act--and interact--in a space that is both very private and very broad. In a global community, the smallest actions matter. Panelists: Camille Griep, Cassandra Phoenix, Renate Fiora, Hal Bichel (mod)
Season 6 takes us beyond where the books left off (at least until Martin finishes the next book in the series). How does this season compare to seasons before? Which characters and storylines have met or exceeded expectations and which have fallen short? Panelists: Axel Kohagen (mod), Alex Musial, Mark Goldberg, Luxander Pond, Kris Coulter
Juliet is now Eve, Renard is running for mayor backed by a Vesen terrorist group, and Wu's "hulking" out. Come talk about the developments in Season 5. Panelists: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Kristina Winn, Ann Laabs, Emma Bull
What makes a good horror game? What can a game do to scare you that a film can't? This panel looks at the techniques and traits of the industry's spookiest video games. Panelists: Jessica Walsh, Stephan Stomberg, Ansley Grams, Anna Besmann
Creating a fictional universe, whether it's for film or for a novel, can be a daunting task. What's it look like? Who lives in it? What kind of society do they live in? Join us and share your tips on world-building, and maybe learn a bit, too! Panelists: J.M. Lee, Ty Blauersouth, Carrie Patel (mod), Kelly McCullough
At the end of season 1, Claire and Jamie were headed to France to try to stop the Jacobite uprising. Come talk about their continuing adventures. Panelists: Lis Morton, Michelle Farley (mod), Lynne M Thomas, Amy Fischer, Anne Fry
Spaceship crews supposedly need to be sexually compatible; if you have normal human beings cooped up together, there's going to be sexual attraction. But asexual people, aces, don't feel sexual attraction. What role might aces play in space exploration? Panelists: Jamie Riedesel (mod), Rory Ni Coileain, Laura Thurston, Graham Barr, Riley Davis
With many of its romantic and implied sexual relationships, Steven Universe is arguably the queerest all-ages cartoon we've ever seen. But the best part is they are treated as absolutely normal. Let's talk about why that's a great step forward. Panelists: K Tempest Bradford, Kiah Nelson, Bri Lopez Donovan (mod), Dirk Ykema, Dani Pennella
In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
The award winning zombie co-op action horror FPS takes you and your friends through the cities, swamps and cemeteries of the Deep South, from Savannah to New Orleans across five expansive campaigns. Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
The greatest vehicles in fiction square off against one another in a battle to determine which of them has the drive to be a champion! Our panel of vehicular experts will look under the hood of each match-up and determine which mode of transportation will move on and which will stall. Panelists: Tim Wick (mod), Melissa Kaercher, Christopher Jones, Kelvin Hatle, Joseph Scrimshaw, Tim Uren, Barb Abney, Sharon Stiteler, Daren Dochterman
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Visit the best transit station lounge in space and enjoy your layover. Social hosts are available to help you select appropriate smoothie refreshment between stops, double-check arrivals and departures, or direct you to your next departure point. Panelists:
Thursday June 30, 2016 9:00pm - Friday July 1, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree Veranda 8
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Ryuuko Matoi arrives at the prestigious Honnouji Academy in search of her father's killer. Armed with a sentient, parasitic school uniform and the Scissor Blade, she challenges the sinister student council to finally uncover the culprit. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Scotch and cigar discussion with smoking and drinking at Smokers' Paradise. Bring your favorites to share, discuss, and further encourage those interested in learning about the lifestyle. Panelists: Cetius d'Raven, Brianne Bilyeu, Todd Kyseth, John Shea
New for 2016, the Foreign Sci-Fi Short Film Festival brings you the best in genre short films produced by filmmakers from around the globe. VOTE for your favorite films in the Audience Choice Awards! Panelists: Troy LaFaye
How do these panelists handle critics as they live their lives online? As critics themselves, how do they manage that filter as they try to consume things for fun? Panelists: Mark McPherson, Mark Oshiro, Laura Zats (mod), Amal El-Mohtar
Gratuitous rape and other violence against women is used as entertainment, filler, to make a bad guy look villainous or a good guy turn heroic. We'll discuss why this is problematic, as well as how rape and violence can be done well in fiction. Panelists: Melissa Olson, Olivia James, Kristina Halseth, Elizabeth Reynolds, Michael Carus (mod)
From Barbarella to Gem, Labyrinth to Hunger Games, we'll talk about over-the-top clothes and costumes in films and TV. Panelists: Sarah Prentice, Michelle Farley, Amanda Hofman-Frethem, Melissa Sowers, Maggie Schultz (mod)
A key aspect of sexuality, gender identity, and attraction factors such as kinks is that they can be fluid and don't necessarily reveal themselves early in life. This panel will challenge assumptions that identities must be claimed early and held for life Panelists: Cassandra Phoenix, Ben Blanchard, Benny Vimes (mod)
Science fiction and fantasy are huge sections of this growing self-pub market, and many of it's works have roots in fandom. How do you find the good stuff, and how can you join the fun? Panelists: Jaime O'Brien, Lee Blauersouth, Ty Blauersouth (mod)
Riding dragons, being carried by an angel, flying on handlebars - getting from point A to point B doesn't always involve traditional vehicles. We'll discuss the unusual, the ridiculous, and the unique in transportation in books, TV, and film. Panelists: Eli Effinger-Weintraub, Katy Kelley, Rebecca Barney, Kathryn Sullivan (mod)
How GMs can deal with problematic behaviors of players, why they should, and what techniques they can use. As a GM, you have the power. Use it for good. Panelists: Beth Kinderman, Jim Tigwell, Mark Redacted (mod), Eric Zawadzki, Jess Banks
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip and the weirdest news stories. Up to 12 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. Up to 8 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Survive 5 nights as security guard in Freddy Fazbear's Pizza, eluding animatronic band members who'll helpfully put you into a suit ... ignoring that the suit is currently filled with mechanics!! Not for the faint of heart! Ribbons awarded for surviving! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Thursday June 30, 2016 10:00pm - 11:30pm CDT
DoubleTree 2208
Join forces to create and build towers and vehicles to turn the Sandbox into a mini cardboard city. We will use this city for kids and members to cosplay, and maybe unleash their inner Godzilla, Friday morning. Panelists: Nick Glover, Molly Glover
Thursday June 30, 2016 10:00pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:00am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 2
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Thursday June 30, 2016 10:00pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:00am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 4
In memory of a wonderful lady and longtime CONvergence volunteer (Anna Catherine Hagen-Heine) who left us far too soon. Come celebrate her life, sense of humor, and truly twisted mind with family and friends you may (or may not) have met. ID required. Panelists: Anna's Minions (mod)
Thursday June 30, 2016 10:00pm - Friday July 1, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2202
A fun, casual format that uses cards from any MTG set released in 15-card packs. Get your $15 event ticket at Dreamer's Vault Games dealer booth - 3 rounds of play, 1 prize pack per round won; 3-0 gets 1 bonus booster pack. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
The Evil League of Evil invites you to attend Joss Whedon's Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog. Thrill to the heroics of Captain Hammer as he attempts to foil Dr. Horrible's plans to impress Penny & Bad Horse! Singing and dancing shall be yours. Don't forget to attend "Can't Stop the Serenity" on August 11th, 2016 at the Riverview Theater in Minneapolis. Panelists: Barbara Jungbauer
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Meet Hitmi, an average Japanese high-school girl who finds herself whisked away to the magical world of Java, where conflict is brewing between the kingdom of Folgeria and the Starbach Empire. Could it be that Hitmi has the power to save the day? If you don't know the answer to that, you probably haven't seen much anime. Panelists:
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 1
How do we bridge the gap between the great future we are so good at imagining and the seemingly intractable current political climate? Panelists: Jim Tigwell, Celia Yost, Jamie Bernstein (mod), Amanda Marcotte, Rebecca Watson
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Edina
This season inhabited The Cortez, based on real horror hotels, and visited some past haunts of the series. Explore characters and themes new and familiar, and perhaps speculate on who or what is next. Most of all, give thanks our CON isn't in the Cortez. Panelists: Kristina Halseth, Ann Laabs (mod), Amanda Hofman-Frethem, Geoffrey Hofman-Frethem
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 7
Continuing our “made me gay” panels, we look at Anime, discussing the gender-bending heroes of Utena and Ranma 1/2, the lesbian Sailor Senshi, old school yaoi and yuri fandom, and the heroes (and villains) that made our childhood selves blush. Panelists: Donald Kaiser (mod), Riley Davis, Brittany Nickel, Jason Tucker
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 2
Ash and his Boomstick are back decades after his original encounters with the Deadites, this time in a TV series. Let's talk about how well the character and story have held up and transitioned to television and what we hope for from the next season. Panelists: Niles Schwartz, Neil Anderson
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 3
In our continuing "[drinks] with [author]" series, we will discuss and celebrate the life and works of Jules Verne while our bartender serves the panel with Verne-inspired cocktails. Can gears be used as a drink garnish? Let's find out! Panelists: Melissa Kaercher, Dawn Krosnowski, Jerry Belich, Pat Harrigan (mod), Tim Uren
Many of us don't see ourselves in even our favorite media. How have you brought your gender identity, sexual orientation, faith, race, disability or mental health into your interpretations of your favorite works? Panelists: Dee Bitner, Kiah Nelson, Graham Barr, Nick Stoner, Lee Blauersouth (mod)
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 4
Some people love them, some hate them, some find them useful, some run screaming from the room. Let's discuss the pros and cons and the various levels of spoiling that can happen. SPOILER WARNING! Panelists: Benny Vimes, Christopher Martinez, Jen Manna, Michael Shappe (mod), Laura Thurston
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 6
Late-night adults-only hours for LAN - take a break from your party rotation for a game of Counter-Strike or Left 4 Dead 2 against your 18+ friends! Room is open as late as the LAN crew can put up with you, or 2:00 AM, whichever comes first! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Thursday June 30, 2016 11:30pm - Friday July 1, 2016 1:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2208
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
How do we get there? By dancing, of course! No matter what conveyance you utilize to get to Mainstage, we'll accelerate your journey to the stars with an all-night jet-fueled mix of retro, remixes, electro-swing, mash-ups, and all-around good cheer. Panelists:
Kasuga Takao spends his time reading Baudelaire and worshipping his classmate Saeki Nanako from afar. On a mad impulse, he steals Saeki's gym uniform but is quickly overcome by shame and guilt. Furthermore, creepy outcast Nakamura saw him do it and begins to blackmail him for her own inscrutible purposes. Panelists:
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Infamous scientist Zorndyke believes the reign of humans on earth needs to end, so he builds a new race of ocean-dwelling beings to destroy humanity. It is up to Blue Submarine No. 6 and the rest of the Blue Fleet to put an end to Zorndyke's madness. Panelists:
Visit the best transit station lounge in space and enjoy your layover. Social hosts are available to help Whether you’ select appropriate smoothie refreshment between stops, double-check arrivals and departures, or direct you to your next departure point. Panelists:
When Giovanni, a lonely boy in a hill town, goes to get milk for his ailing mother, he finds himself crossing the Milky Way on a faster-than-light steam railroad. Fantasy and reality blur as Giovanni visits a variety of human "types" at stations across the galaxy. Panelists:
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (this showing is captioned) Panelists:
Get your kids, get your costumes on, and come cosplay in our miniature cardboard city. We will have areas to strike a pose, and other areas to Hulk smash your enemies and save the day! Panelists: Nick Glover, Molly Glover
What games do people play when they do not have a lot of time to game? We'll talk about the best options from mobile to PC to console. Panelists: Amanda Larsen, Sean Sullivan, Ross Conklin (mod), Caitlin Knight, Ryan Placzkowski
Dinosaurs are everywhere in film in TV, from the Flintstones to Jurassic World and the Good Dinosaur. Come discuss the variations in portrayal. Which films and shows get the most right? Which are not even close? Do the changing depictions reflect society? Panelists: Matt Kuchta, Adam J. Whitlatch, Melissa Olson
Being a genius is the easy part. Getting paid for your work? That’s the challenge. We'll share insight on getting paid, keeping your rights, and other cool stuff. Panelists: Boone Dryden, David Walbridge, Rory Ni Coileain, Scott Lynch, Jorge Salgado-Reyes
The animal kingdom is nothing if not creative. Explore the weird world of locomotion, from walking cacti to jet powered living fossils, with a panel of scientists and experts. Panelists: Brianne Bilyeu, Jim Tigwell, Siouxsie Wiles
We've talked about them for a long time, but can we actually build them? What are the challenges? Panelists: Tom Kastan (mod), Ryan Consell, Katie Dahl, Dan Berliner, Elle Kennedy Cadieux
Hear the stories of real life mech warriors who operated and maintained U.S. military land vehicles including Humvees, Strykers, Tracks and more. Will the depictions of army drivers & vehicles in your favorite fiction stack up to the real thing? Panelists: Kyle Dekker (mod), Perrin Klumpp, Michael Spaulding, Paula Merns, Jerry Keohen
The issues and experiences of teens today aren't exactly the same as the adolescent experiences of authors publishing YA now. How can authors cross that generation gap, and what's still missing? Teens welcome to come provide input. Panelists: Melinda Layden (mod), Lana Wood Johnson, Susan Chang
Superhero stories are full of characters who've had some form of major change to their body and their relationship to it. Come find out what psychology knows about how people adapt to these kinds of changes, with MCU case studies and real-life corollaries Panelists: Lee Blauersouth
Renton Thurston lives with his mechanic grandfather in a backwater town and dreams of joining the mercenary "Light Finding Operation." However, when an unexpected visit by the LFO leaves his home destroyed, he quickly realizes that behind the facade of a traveling group of mercenaries is a very bitter reality. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come join invited guests and expand your knowledge with an assortment of science-themed stations including bugs, Tiny Drawings with the Science Museum of Minnesota, creating straw rockets and planes, and more. Panelists: Monica Valentinelli
Of all the D&D incarnations over the years, have they finally gotten it right with Fifth Edition? Veterans of the D&D universe and newcomers alike are welcome to weigh in! Panelists: Ty Blauersouth, Jim Tigwell, Chris Severin, Kyle Dekker (mod), Cam Banks
Which YouTube channels are you and your friends watching all the time? Come share with other kids your favorite channels and learn some new ones to subscribe to. All ages welcome, but focus and priority on kids. Craig: added Karatina Larsen Panelists: Gawain Bitner, Katarina Larsen, Amanda Larsen
Can Facebook predict who will become a criminal? Can we use Twitter to foretell the next election results? Does Target know you're pregnant before you do? What does Big Data truly know and what are the implications of that knowledge? Panelists: Desiree Schell (mod), Siouxsie Wiles, Vernon McIntosh, Jamie Bernstein, Jason Thibeault
Friday July 1, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
With the release of the Trespasser DLC, there's a lot to discuss about the future of the Dragon Age franchise and where the story might go next - and a lot of great moments to reminisce about, too. Spoilers will abound! Panelists: Beth Kinderman (mod), Alee Ellingsberg, Aaron Coker, Jaime O'Brien, Brittany Nickel
When fictional astronaut Mark Watney becomes stranded alone on the Red Planet in the novel and film "The Martian," people and technology from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory play important roles in his castaway adventure. Panelists: Renate Fiora, Amy Shira Teitel
What games are worth your time and money? We'll share recommendations and provide an introduction to board games for those just getting (back) into them. Panelists: Satish Jayaraj, Brianne Bilyeu, Peter Lane (mod), Ryan Placzkowski, Hertzey Hertz
What did you think of The Force Awakens? How does it compare to what's come before? Come discuss the latest Star Wars movie and the future of the Star Wars universe. Panelists: Allyson Cygan, Jeremy Stomberg, Zach Nyhus, Niles Schwartz, Michael Carus (mod)
Amal was given twenty-eight kinds of honey. She tasted each one and wrote The Honey Month. Elise was inspired to make a piece of art for each piece of writing. Watch Amal see the art pieces for the first time, and hear her discuss her writing. Panelists: Amal El-Mohtar, Elise Matthesen
Missed yesterday morning's Open LAN time? Start your Friday right with any of the games on our PCs - CS:GO, TF2, Left 4 Dead 2 and others! Be warned: they who get there first sit at one of the newest computers! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Deck Building Game set in the Marvel Comics Universe. Battle other players with heroes, villains, and if you’re strong enough, take on the Mastermind! Up to 6 players, ages 13+ Panelists: The Source (mod)
Hey you, let's fight! Them's drinkin' words! Return to Red Dragon Inn where adventurers gather to drink, gamble and brawl when they get back from killing the monsters. Last one sober(ish) with money to spend wins! Up to 8 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Come watch the 2015 documentary about building an elevator to space, with and post-movie Q & A with Director Miguel Drake-McLaughlin. (Limited seating - 2nd showing Saturday). Panelists:
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Still need an Arlinn Kord for your deck? Maybe you'll open one! Purchase your $15 event ticket at the Dreamers' Vault Games dealer booth, and be in 2206 at 11 AM. 3 rounds of play; prizes 1 pack per round won, with 3-0 getting an additional bonus pack. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
The coincidental arrival of the mysterious half-orc Vegazi raises unsettling questions, and it's up to the heroes to make sense of these events and end the Hell's Fury tribe's threat to Arwyll Stead once and for all. Up to 5 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Jeffrey Reed (mod)
Quests are a series of 1 hour adventures meant to take new players through their first experiences with the Pathfinder Society. Quests will be run throughout the day whenever players are available. Up to 6 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Keith Apperson (mod), Jason Rosauer (mod)
Every year, The Source brings a library of games to CONvergence - this table has been reserved for folks who would like to play games from that library. Please keep all games borrowed from The Source's library in 2205. Panelists: The Source (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Justy Ueki Tylor enlists in the United Planets Space Force for a cushy pension, but when war breaks out with the Raalgon Empire, he quickly finds himself in command of the cruiser Soyokaze. His allies and enemies alike can only wonder - is he a genius or a complete fool? Panelists:
Pick up your blank ballots for the Steam Century Scavenger Hunt at the 22nd floor Front Desk starting noon-ish on Friday. Instructions available at the table, and completed ballots due Sunday by noon. Panelists: Red Ribbon Society (mod)
Friday July 1, 2016 12:00pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2200 Lobby
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come join invited guests and expand your knowledge with an assortment of science-themed stations including bugs, Tiny Drawings with the Science Museum of Minnesota, creating straw rockets and planes, and more. Panelists: Monica Valentinelli
Have you ever wanted to be in a radio play, performing beside a professional voice actor, playing one of your favorite characters? Now is your chance! We are holding auditions for a live performance at CONvergence! Panelists: Greg Weisman, Khary Payton, Christopher Jones
There's more to forming a student club than just getting a faculty adviser. How do you find other students who share your interest? How do you decide on activities, service projects, events? How often should you meet? What makes a great club? Panelists: Renate Fiora, Lis Morton
What changes did the movie make to your favorite book or comic that irritated you the most? Which changes were an improvement on the source? Panelists: Jon Durmin, Tim Lieder (mod), Jack Reher, Ann Laabs, Niles Schwartz
How do you pass on your mastery of a subject to the next generation? What are some ways for someone new to an art form learn it? These experts are already mentoring the next generation. Find out how. Panelists: Kelly McCullough, Roy C. Booth, Michael Shappe (mod), Daren Dochterman, Lynne M Thomas
Diversity (or lack thereof) can be painful and messy. In movies, games, TV, etc., what are some successful examples of getting away from the default white male character? Panelists: Michi Trota, Tanya DePass (mod), Briana Lawrence, Jonathan Palmer, Trisha Lynn
As a safety and headline driven nation, how will we explore dangerous, distant places that are inherently unsafe without losing the public will or disrespecting the lives of those who go? Panelists: Desiree Schell (mod), Sarah Prentice, Jim Tigwell, Abra Staffin-Wiebe, Rebecca Watson
A live recording of Joseph Scrimshaw’s hit show from the podcast feed, FORCE CENTER! Weird Star Wars characters are picked from the official databank files of Star Wars dot com and made to fight for our amusement! Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw, Molly Glover, Jeremy Stomberg
Why is steampunk so enamored with travel by airship, dirigible, or other heavier-than-air travel? A brief discussion of the history of airship travel and the prevalence of airships in steampunk, dieselpunk, and other retrofuture genres. Panelists: Boone Dryden, Christopher Baye (mod), Tyler Tork, Michael Carus
Join Dr. Jim as he previews his next book, describing the physics underlying the technology surrounding us in our daily life, as you drive to the doctor, go through TSA security at the airport, give a business presentation and relax in your hotel room. Panelists: Jim Kakalios
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
One of the most popular games in the world. Team tournament matches will be held during the morning, with finals on Saturday afternoon. Also available for team play during open gaming/late night gaming. **PERSONAL ACCOUNT REQUIRED** Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Tournament-flavor Munchkin - come get your card game on with CONvergence’s annual Munchkin Tourney. Tournament rules may be available at the front desk on 22, and will also be explained at each session. Panelists: Andy Mullin (mod)
Zombie apocalypse, medieval times! Necromancers have unleashed a zombie invasion in the age of swords and sorcery, and it's up to your group of straggling survivors to survive and take back the realm and punish those responsible! 5 players, age 16+. Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
Queen Bee is fearful that her long-time friend may have gone missing near Dragon Snot Falls and requests adventurers such as yourself to help! Up to 7 players, ages 8 and up. Panelists: Jeremy Thigpen (mod)
Confirmation is typically an individual affair; the society discovered a site on the Isle of Kortos that would be perfect for initiates but is too dangerous to handle alone. Successfully complete your Confirmation as a Pathfinder. 5 players, age 13+ Panelists: Kris Spiesz (mod)
NEW Steam Century mystery: Play detective in an interactive crime-solving game set in a steampunk world. Follow clues around the convention and interact with costumed characters. Must start by 3:00, answers due 5:00, finale at 5:30. All are welcome! Panelists: Red Ribbon Society (mod)
"Room Party": play cards to give yourself the most memorable, most awesome room party at the con! "Smash-Up": battle icons of fandom and see who wins in an free-for-all! Join in! Learn and have fun with some of the best geeky party games in existence! Panelists: David Rust (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Filmmakers from around Minnesota and the upper Midwest submitted short films of various geeky genres and styles. Come see some of Rex’s favorites. Panelists:
Bring your Standard deck, get your event ticket at the Dreamer's Vault Games booth, and see if your Bant Aggro can beat your buddy's Orzhov Control! 4 rounds of play, and at least two boosters for everyone - 4-0 gets 8 packs, 3-1 gets 4. Come get some! Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Marin and her sister Urin leave their home in the sea for the first time to return a beautiful ring. Their encounter with the owner, a young girl living on an isolated island, awakens a hidden power as the world is threatened by an enveloping darkness. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Amazing Soft Sculpture Artist Julie Bowman will be teaching all ages how to make wonderful creatures from the Flexible Master of Craft Materials...the Pipecleaner. Mosifications are also shown and it can get crazy from there. Panelists: Julie Bowman
The latest Marvel movie pits Avengers against Avengers. Let's talk about the politics and personalities behind the split, how well the film pulled it off, and how Civil War furthers Capt. America's storyline and fits in with the Marvel Universe as a whole Panelists: Christopher Jones, Aaron Coker (mod), Satish Jayaraj, Michael Shappe, Neil Anderson
Sometimes reporting on the real world leads you into fandom, or vice versa. How does fandom and journalism intertwine for these panelists? How does reporting on fandoms support the community as well as their own interests? Panelists: Dave Romm (mod), Patrick Tomlinson, Jordan West, Scott Smith, Michael Damian Thomas
How do indie filmmakers develop their artistic visions? What if you have something to say beyond telling a good story? Panelists: Jack Reher, Alex Musial, Matt Gamble, Kyle Dekker (mod), Ytasha Womack
Science fiction allows you to explore the human condition under sometimes extraordinary circumstances. How do these tropes bring out both the best and worst in people? What are some powerful examples of how this works? Panelists: Kelly Jo Ernst, Riley Davis, Caroline Symcox (mod), Anna Waltz
What are the dreams and practicalities of colonizing space? How might humanity reach beyond our planet? We'll discuss the science of human spaceflight in reality and fiction. Panelists: Emily Finke, Ryan Consell, Nicole Gugliucci (mod), PZ Myers
A band of brothers off to take out Hitler; a fantasy realm like 15th century France; zombie apocalypse in the trenches of the World War I. Real history presents unique challenges to players and GMs alike. Where is your balance of reality and fiction? Panelists: Sarah Ravely, Bradford Walker, Cam Banks, Jess Banks (mod)
Professional Wrestling is growing within geek culture. Pro Wrestling 101 seeks to give an overview of The Business in its current standing. Want to know what Kayfabe is? Want the skinny on story-lines and how feuds work? We are here for you. Panelists: Taylor Cisco, Jeremy Stomberg, Trisha Lynn (mod), Steve Bentley
Hamilton turns the five minutes you fell asleep during history class into everyone's favorite new musical. Is there anything that SF&F could take from it? Yeah, it's really just an excuse to have a panel about that Broadway musical. #Fans4Ham Panelists: Mark Oshiro, Ty Blauersouth, Windy Bowlsby, Amal El-Mohtar, Lee Blauersouth
What books outside the usual genres are you interested in reading? Does it affect the type of sci-fi and fantasy that you are drawn to? Panelists: Tim Lieder, Camille Griep, Paul Weimer, Naomi Kritzer, Jody Wurl (mod)
Audio drama is a uniquely challenging and rewarding medium for the writer. Learn from experience at this panel of writers from Our Fair City and other audio dramas. Panelists: Jim McDoniel, Aimee Kuzenski, Patrick Marsh (mod), Emma Bull, Greg Weisman
Come watch two-person teams compete in a head-to head one-hour themed guerrilla challenge. The teams are each given the theme and a surprise grab bag and will have one hour to make the costume then show it off to win the title Guerrilla Costume Warrior. Panelists: Gregory de Danann
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip and the weirdest news stories. Up to 8 players, age 13+. Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Charades-based party game of famous historical or fictional characters for teams of two or more players. 8 players (4 teams of two each), ages 12+. Panelists: The Source
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
A fast-paced, humorous look at B-rated science-fiction movies. Players create bad horror / sci-fi films using cards that represent characters, props, locations, creatures and special effects. The strongest characters in play when the credits roll win!! Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Chaos reigns - draft using cards from *any* Magic set released in 15-card packs! Get your event ticket at Dreamers' Vault Games dealer booth - 3 rounds of play, 1 prize pack per round won; 3-0 gets 1 bonus booster pack. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Stretch your creative muscles by writing a 100-word story based on a surprise prompt item. Entries will be judged during the weekend and the winners announced at the end of the convention. Panelists: Ann Roubik, Heather Bufkin
Costuming has the potential of becoming an expensive hobby, but it doesn't have break your budget. We will discuss where to get low-/no-cost materials, DIY, and tips and tricks for taking advantage of the network to barter and trade. Panelists: Amanda Jade, Erin Schneider (mod), Dorianne Jarchow, Leah Groess, Caitlin Knight
They may have started out as sidekicks in the early days of comics, but now teenage superheroes are a genre onto themselves. From Young Justice to Teen Titans to the students of Xavier's school, let's look at why their stories are so compelling. Panelists: Christopher Jones, Khary Payton, Greg Weisman, Sylus Rademacher, Jessa Markert
Home, Steven Universe, Avatar the Last Airbender- the last years have seen kids shows taking in imperialism in ways we rarely see in adult media. Why? What's going well, and what's missing? Panelists: Melinda Layden (mod), Gabriela Santiago, Peter Larsen, Lee Blauersouth, Max Gladstone
What inspires these panelists to write poetry? What kind of market does it have? How does the Rhysling Award work? Panelists: Elise Matthesen, Patrick Marsh (mod), Renate Fiora, Amal El-Mohtar
What are the best movie and TV soundtracks, from classic to current? What makes a soundtrack good? How well it fits the story? How objectively good the music is? A combination? Panelists: Scott Keever (mod), Michi Trota, Bryon Stump, Derek "Duck" Washington, Ansley Grams
Ever since the opening shot of Episode IV, vehicles have been a major part of the Star Wars Universe. Discuss what you love about the vehicles in a galaxy far, far away. Panelists: Zach Nyhus, Amy Fischer, Kyle Dekker (mod), Samantha Bitner, Daren Dochterman
These days, the Western is the genre equivalent of peanut butter: not often served on its own, and yet it seems to go with just about everything. Why is the Western so appealing and adaptable, and what are the best examples of great Western fusion? Panelists: William Leisner, Camille Griep (mod), Abra Staffin-Wiebe, Bradford Walker, Eric Heideman
On Wonder Woman's 75th anniversary, award-winning playwright phillip low has created an adaptation of her earliest appearances! Come listen to a full-cast reading of William Moulton Marston's eccentric alchemy of war, myth, feminism, comedy, and kink. Panelists: phillip andrew bennett low, Joshua Scrimshaw, Dawn Krosnowski, Kelvin Hatle, Jen Scott, Jena Young
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. Up to 8 players, age 13+. Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
You play as spectators, cheering and betting on the melee ongoing in a fantasy arena / Colosseum in which fantasy creatures are pitted against each other in battle - the player who finishes with the most money wins! 4 players, ages 16+. Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
The fourth game in the Counter-Strike franchise, this offering features revamped versions of classic maps, as well as several brand new maps, weapons, characters, and game modes, as well as cosmetic items like weapon skins (added post-release). Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Trapped in an abusive foster family, Hana fantasizes about the day when she will finally be whisked away by her own Prince Charming. She never expected her savior to be a violent convict on a stolen motorbike, who charges in claiming to be her mother. Panelists:
If you have registered for the Art of the Dress Show, come line up and get last-minute tips for the show. Mandatory for Art of the Dress participants. Panelists: Gregory de Danann
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Join the AGMAA for weapons training & Opening Qualifier for Saturday's Tournament. Ages 14+ with parental consent. To Register Visit: http://www.assassins.celticmagicinc.com/2016-tournament/ Panelists: David Bianchi
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Searching for 2 gem keys to unlock the Vault of Larin Karr, the party is also en route to stop a diabolical telescope from being built which will summon a host of devils to raze the land... A long-running CONvergence D&D 3.5 adventure! Ages 12+ welcome. Panelists: Burl Zorn (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Build your own paper rocket while learning about aerodynamics, then race to find the flaws in your design. Edit, update, and race again! Panelists: Beth Voigt, Topher Hunter
Get an update on the latest with the organization that runs CONvergence with members of the Convergence Events Board of Directors. Panelists: Margaret Eastman, Nadim Khalidi, Thomas Keeley, Ishmael Williams, Jonathan Palmer
Thousands are moving away from subscribing to cable every year. Subscription streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon and Hulu help bridge the gap, plus antennas are making a comeback. Will cable soon be obsolete? Panelists: William Leisner, Mark McPherson, Elizabeth Reynolds (mod), Lana Rosario, Adam Lueck
Heinlein, Orwell, Rand, or Smith, the pattern seems to be clear: how bright our future looks is inversely proportionate to how much government our species requires. Panelists: phillip andrew bennett low, Naomi Kritzer (mod), Jamie Riedesel, Bob Johnson, Jorge Salgado-Reyes
Agent Carter knows her worth and so do we! Let’s talk about second season. Panelists: Cetius d'Raven (mod), Allyson Cygan, Grace Ulak, Jordan West, Caroline Symcox
Hollywood and other media are still giving us the same tropes of the lone, crazy scientist pursuing science to the destruction of all else. Why won't this trope die? How is science really done? Panelists: Siouxsie Wiles, Vernon McIntosh, Jim Kakalios, Laura Okagaki-Vraspir (mod), Nicole Gugliucci
There are still too few roles written for people of color, despite plenty of great actors of various backgrounds. Even those written as POC are sometimes portrayed by white actors. Are the writers still mostly white? Is this changing? Why so slowly? Panelists: Elliott Wilcoxon (mod), Trisha Lynn, Rob Callahan, Derek "Duck" Washington, Ytasha Womack
What better way to travel than on your own two feet (or wheels)? Run, walk, shamble, or roll your way through a zombie apocalypse in Six to Start's groundbreaking fitness app! Panelists: Elizabeth Bear, Catherine McFerrin, Molly Glover, Peregrin Winkle
After last year's successful Kickstarter, Vermin has been produced and you can get your first look at the finished product! Show creators and puppeteers will be on hand to talk about the process and some of the next steps. Panelists: Gordon Smuder, Tim Wick, Jennifer Menken
Impostor Syndrome has been described as the feeling that you aren’t really qualified for the work you are doing and will be discovered as a fraud. This workshop is aimed at helping attendees overcome Impostor Syndrome. Panelists: Crystal Huff
Deck Building Game set in the Marvel Comics Universe. Battle other players with heroes, villains, and if you’re strong enough, take on the Mastermind! 4 players, ages 18+ Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
Come one come all, travel over to the Mainstage and witness performers of amazing feats! From bellydance of various flavors, to our balancing acrobats; a beautiful siren songstress, some special new high flying guests, and so much more to delight! A little something for everyone- so by robot, Catbus, or TARDIS- please come join us for a trip to the Circus! Panelists:
Slash - a card game where players make the best romantic pairings between cultural icon the “matchmaker” selects and one from their hand. 8 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
Hunters and huntresses replying to a posting for the opening of a new children's hospital have been asked to dress as super heroes... It seems like a pretty simple job ... until something starts moving by the mountain outside town... 6 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Katie Dahl (mod)
Tournament time!! Bring your best 9-player team - All their base will belong to YOU! Game modes include CTF, Payload, Control Point, King of the Hill, and Man vs. Machine. Winners go home with prize ribbons! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Earth needs YOU to hunt down and take revenge for what they did to our homeworld! Become a Marine, go to strange, exotic worlds aaaaaaand basically kill everything that moves. 10 players, age 13+. Panelists: Robert "Ski" Cudinski (mod)
Blow the dust off your Modern deck, get an $8 event ticket at Dreamer's Vault Games dealer booth, and venture up to 22 for a little Modern fun! This gets you 4 rounds of play with prizes for all - 8 packs for 4-0, 4 for 3-1, 2 for all others. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
After his shipments of sun orchid elixir vanished without a trace two years in a row, the ruler of Pashow is desperate to ensure that his next delivery goes off without a hitch. Pashow has hired your team to test a convoy's defenses. 5 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Brett Indrelee (mod)
Soon after a pair of initiates sneaks into the archive and steals a few items on a dare, the Overflow Archives inexplicably spring a leak. Investigate this phenomenon, and stop it, before priceless artifacts are ruined forever. 5 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Jeffrey Reed (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
After the Nano Hazard, humanity evacuated to space by digitizing their minds within space station DEVA. One day, a hacker originating from Earth called Frontier Setter infiltrates DEVA's mainframe. Agent Angela Balzac, in a prosthetic body, teams up with Earth native Dingo to track the hacker across the wasteland. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
If you have registered for the Masquerade, come and get last-minute information about the tech rehearsals, judging, and the show. Masquerade participants must attend one of the orientation sessions. Panelists: Gregory de Danann
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Join our Master of Illustration, Christopher Jones, and learn tips and tricks for drawing characters and other illustration features. Whether you like pencils, pens, markers or more, build on your skills with this fun hour. Guest Moderator, Greg Weisman. Panelists: Greg Weisman, Ruth Thompson, Christopher Jones
Fact: human brains vary widely. Theory: this fact is totally okay. Join us in exploring the variations in the human mind and how "disorders" may just be differences. Panelists: Sarah Ravely, Olivia James, Richard Wielgosz, Emilie Peck, Jess Banks (mod)
We ask our Guests of Honor what got them interested in what they do and the stories of their first love in genre. Panelists: Mark Oshiro, Cam Banks, Daren Dochterman, Ytasha Womack, Khary Payton
Thirteen American women, narrowed down from 25, passed the same physical & psychological tests that determined the original Mercury 7 astronauts. However, astronaut training did not follow. Hear the story of these Fellow Lady Astronaut Trainees (FLATs). Panelists: Nicole Gugliucci, Amy Shira Teitel
Let's talk about good examples of disability and disability culture in SF&F, such as the character with a hearing impairment in Dr. Who. Does not talking about it make it mainstream? Not a big deal anymore? Panelists: Vetnita Anderson (mod), Josie Browning, Lee Blauersouth, Michael Damian Thomas, Lynne M Thomas
Fans of dark fantasy have more choices than ever on TV: Supernatural, Vampire Diaries, Grimm, Sleepy Hollow, and the list goes on. Why the trend, and will it continue? Panelists: Cetius d'Raven, Jessica Walsh, Patrick Marsh (mod), Jody Wurl
How well does this show riff off of the DC Universe? What do you think about the characters? How often does it pass the Bechdel test? Panelists: Caroline Symcox (mod), Kavin Senapathy, Dana Baird, Kevin Eldridge, Anne Fry
Come watch, listen, and heckle this year's evil presidential candidates as they attempt to bully, bribe, and bluster their way to the presidency. Afterwards, cast your vote in the Campaign Convergence party room. Vote early, vote often. Panelists: Genevieve Woodward, Ken Merriman, Chris Whiting, Brian LaBounty
Join comedian and guest of honor Joseph Scrimshaw (RiffTrax, Obsessed Podcast) for an hour of “geek-flavored” stand-up comedy about coping with the 21st century. Thrill to tales of haunted iPhones, bizarre YouTube comments, and getting life advice from a box of frozen pizza. Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw
Two competing teams of "experts" tell you the plot of a book, based only upon the cover art they see on the screen. Panelists: Melissa Kaercher, Tim Wick (mod), Molly Glover, Nick Glover, Dawn Krosnowski, Jerry Belich
A card game where players pick qualities that would make a perfect date for the “single” player. Then an opponent brings up the “red flag.” She “loves to cuddle” and is an “astronaut” but what if they “bring dad to the date?” 8 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
Gentlemen, start your engines! Pedestrians, watch your @$$es! Race across the country in your weaponized roadster, lighting up your opponents and scoring points by killing pedestrians. It’s all about the size of your gun and the speed of your ride! Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Ages 13-20. Make smoothies, DJ, or just have all the awesomeness of Space Lounge for your teen-self and friends during this Teen/Space-Lounge cooperative event! No alcohol will be allowed into the room. No non-teens other than staff allowed into the room. Panelists:
Tournament-flavor Munchkin - come get your card game on with CONvergence’s annual Munchkin Tourney, run by our Steve Jackson Games rep. Tournament rules may be available at the front desk on 22, and will also be explained at each session. Panelists: Andy Mullin (mod)
Has Westvale Abbey eluded you? Come see if you can open one! Get your event ticket at the Dreamer's Vault Games dealer booth - $15 gets you 3 rounds of play with prizes of 1 pack per round won. Anyone going 3-0 gets an additional prize pack. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Old rivalries resurface in the Iwatobi Swim Club as Haruka, Makoto and Rin begin their last year of high school and are faced with life after graduation. Will the team make it out stronger than before or sink under pressure? Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Have you ever imagined a world whose laws of physics differ from our own? Welcome to the Twin Cities’ first open-mic dedicated to speculative fiction! Sign up for 5-7 minutes and tell us about a place of which we’ve never dreamt. Panelists: phillip andrew bennett low
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Have fun at participating party rooms Friday and Saturday evenings AND be rewarded for it. Ballots and instructions available on the 22nd floor beginning noon-ish Friday. Return completed ballots to 22nd floor by Sunday Noon to claim your prize! Panelists: Red Ribbon Society (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Draw your masterpiece in glowing bacteria! Participants will have the opportunity to create an artwork using glowing bacteria on a petridish. We will then take a photograph of the resulting artwork for participants to download from Flickr. Panelists: Siouxsie Wiles
Join us for a meet and greet at the Art Show. Gather outside the art show and then we will tour the Art Show as we put faces to the art. Stick around afterwards in the Art Show coat check area for some refreshments and conversation. All are welcome. Panelists: Christine Mitzuk
Steampunk Superman. Jedi Disney Princesses. What happens when we move past trying to just imitate a character's look and start reimagining it? Panelists: Graham Barr, Bess Stuvenoxend, Melissa Sowers, Maggie Schultz (mod)
Do games make you more violent? Is gaming inherently damaging or a waste of time? We'll discuss the truth (or lack thereof) behind common myths about gaming and gamers, including what studies have shown and what they have not. Panelists: Tactical Pinup (mod), David Rust, Ross Conklin, Luxander Pond, Anna Besmann
Women's sexuality has been used as backstory for far too long. We'll talk about other ways to flesh out female characters, realistic portrayals of trauma, and the variety of motivations for women, with examples from Furiosa, Jessica Jones, and more. Panelists: Chrysoula Tzavelas, Cassandra Phoenix, Amanda Marcotte, Amal El-Mohtar, Rebecca Watson
What are the best books, audio dramas, and podcasts for road trips or plane rides? Come share your favorites and stock up on ideas for your next big trip. Panelists: Adam J. Whitlatch, Lee Harris (mod), Ben San Del, Skazka 9000, Jerry Stearns
Lousy drivers in the docks, voracious vermin, and automated systems eating the cargo are just some of the fun events faced by stationmasters on interstellar space stations. What characteristics are needed for this job? Who would be crazy enough to want it Panelists: Elizabeth Bear, Katie Dahl, Michael Shappe (mod), Kathryn Sullivan
As we move further into the future, we and our children are becoming comfortable with more and more technology. How is this tech being folded into the classroom experience? Is it enhancing education? Is it forcing our society to lose vital skills? Panelists: Taylor Cisco, Renate Fiora, Dan Berliner, Sean Casey, Peter Larsen (mod)
Lots of things (RPGs, books, movies, etc.) are being sold for their diversity of representation. But if the same old powers-that-be turn diversity into another marketing gimmick, then it will fail. Let's discuss why we need diverse creators and more. Panelists: Jonathan Palmer, Kate Norlander, Trisha Lynn (mod), Dirk Ykema, Greg Weisman
So many gadgets, set pieces, and art design decisions in film and TV seem to have no purpose beyond looking cool (windows in submarines?!). Let's discuss examples of form completely overriding function in fiction. When does it work and when does it fail? Panelists: Topher Hunter (mod), Celia Yost, Ryan Consell, Daren Dochterman, Christopher Jones
Four "experts" each give a PowerPoint presentation... but they have never seen the slides before, and the slides make no sense! Panelists: C. Robert Cargill, Molly Glover, Sharon Stiteler, Tim Uren, Barb Abney, Tim Wick, Paul Cornell, Joseph Scrimshaw, Melissa Kaercher, Bill Stiteler (mod)
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. Up to 12 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Award winning zombie co-op action horror FPS takes you and your friends through the cities, swamps and cemeteries of the Deep South, from Savannah to New Orleans across five expansive campaigns. Complete with asymmetrical versus mode, fun for all! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Since 2008, the Midwest Sci-Fi Short Film Festival has been bringing you the best in genre short films produced by filmmakers around the midwestern USA and Canada. VOTE for your favorite films in the Audience Choice Awards! Panelists: Troy LaFaye
Start with a captain and a ship, hire and equip a crew, travel the 'Verse to complete jobs and get paid while avoiding Reavers, Alliance patrols and rival captains who may be pirates. 4 players, age 13+ Panelists: Stan Carlson (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Bring your Standard-legal deck and an event ticket from Dreamer's Vault Games dealer booth up to 22 to get in on the fun! $8 gets you 4 rounds of play - prizes for all! 8 packs for 4-0; 4 packs for 3-1, and 2 packs for everyone else! Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Visit the best transit station lounge in space and enjoy your layover. Social hosts are available to help you select appropriate smoothie refreshment between stops, double-check arrivals and departures, or direct you to your next departure point. Panelists:
Friday July 1, 2016 9:00pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree Veranda 8
With the help of his sidekicks, the robot vacuum QT and cat-like alien Meow, and his slightly-used ship the Aloha Oe, Dandy roams the galaxy searching for new alien species. What he usually finds, however, is adventure, danger, and romance, and no two journeys (or universes) are ever the same. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
The Midwest's greatest steampunk rock band! Panelists: John Heimbuch, Marc Gutman, Keith Prusak, Elizabeth Borchert, Michael Borchert, Charles Borchert
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
A discussion of the concept of consent culture, the idea that interpersonal relations of an intimate nature (ahem, "fusion") should always be approached with the express ongoing consent of all parties, within "Steven Universe". Mature subject matter. Panelists: Jason Thibeault, Benny Vimes, Amal El-Mohtar, Violet --
We believe geek relationships are the best ones, but they will fail without some important philosophies. Discuss friendships to romance, the spectrum of possibilities therein, and the importance of concepts like honesty, openness, and acceptance. Panelists: Dorianne Jarchow, George Miller (mod), Kerry Peterson
He wrote books, TV, and even movies, and along the way, he had to invent lots of solutions and modern technology. In more than a few cases, he predicted the future. His ideas included a waterbed design, camelbak canteens, and much of modern politics. Panelists: Sarah Richards, Ross Conklin, Michael Carus
The promise of an Earth without racism has always been an important part of Star Trek. Let's discuss how the civil rights struggles of the past affected this show, and how the civil rights struggles of the present should affect the new series in 2017. Panelists: K Tempest Bradford (mod), Gabriela Santiago, Gregory Parks, Hal Bichel
What's new in urban fantasy? Which books or series are your favorites and why do you find them so appealing? Which ones are not worth the time? Panelists: Lana Rosario, Melissa Olson
What does it sound like where no person has ever been? What does warp speed sound like? How about hyperspace? Come explore the mysteries of sound. Panelists: Dave Erwin, Jerry Stearns
Whether it's an AI, a sentient ship, or Seaman Jones at the helm, someone who isn't the main character is behind the wheel. Discussion centering around the types and problems of autopilots, AI, and crew that handle the ship while the main characters act. Panelists: Simon Bitdiddle, Christopher Baye (mod), Tyler Tork
Vilification Tennis is a structured improvisational show where competitors engage in a battle of insults. The show is never the same because the competitors keep changing and the material is constantly evolving. We feel that there is humor inherent even in the most taboo subjects and we are, therefore, willing to make fun of things that most people would think aren’t the least bit funny. Like your mom. Beware- this show is not for those with delicate sensibilities. Panelists: Tim Wick
The ladies of the XCPD podcast will be recording live with a special guest, lavishing our adoration on the movies we love so much. (Sobriety optional.) Panelists: Greg Weisman, Melissa Kaercher, Windy Bowlsby
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
All three installments of this cult indie-horror game hit - can you survive five nights as a security guard in Freddy Fazbear's Pizza? Elude the animatronics, keep your wits, and you might leave alive. NOT for kids! Ribbons awarded for surviving! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Science is messy, sex is dirty, but we are doing this for posterity. Come use the experimental method to explore sex with 3 hands-on activities designed to test knowledge, engage sexual selection, and draw out laughs along the way. 18+ Bring ID. Panelists: Jezabel Starfox
Friday July 1, 2016 10:00pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:00am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 2
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (this showing is captioned) Panelists:
Friday July 1, 2016 10:00pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:00am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 4
WTFs (women/trans/femmes) playing Magic the Gathering casually, by the rules mostly, while responsibly enjoying adult beverages; opportunities for non-standard deck builds/scenarios, and supportive/fun place for newbs. No dude-bros, please! Panelists: Tara Jenson (mod)
Friday July 1, 2016 10:00pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2201
This is the foul-mouthed, inappropriate, slightly-crazed, biker-gang brother of that classic party favorite, Apples to Apples. Bring your ID, your *wrong*, and your sense of humor – you’ll need all of them! ID and Adult CONvergence badge required. Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Friday July 1, 2016 10:00pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2202
Do you like movies with convoluted plots, betrayal, redemption, insanity and jealousy all rolled into a ball of misanthropy and murder? Welcome to Fiasco, the storytelling game about people with strong desires and weak self control. 18+, ID Req'd Panelists: Lauren Sindt (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Nerdlesque - pop culture, nerd inspired burlesque Panelists: Mona Montague, Opiumm Hayze, Ivory Clover, Holliedazzle, Tre da Marc, Luna Rouge, Anjela, Apollo Hawthorne
Friday July 1, 2016 11:00pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:00am CDT
Crowne Plaza A-E-I-O
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
All Keanu and Ash wanted was to have a good time at ASUX (the largest anime convention in the known universe). If they knew the fate of the con would end up in their hands, they probably would've stayed home. Panelists:
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 1
The latest seasons of Archer have taken us through many changes, from the demise of ISIS to the creation of The Figgis Agency in Hollywood. Say goodbye to safe spaces and join us in the Danger Zone to talk about all things Archer. Sploosh! Panelists: Michael Zecca (mod), Hertzey Hertz, Stephen Nemer
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 4
You've seen the show, there's two guys, their female love interests have needs and storylines that get pushed aside, because they care about each other that much, that's what the show is about! Is it exploring masculine love? Or just excluding women? Panelists: Elise Matthesen, Cassandra Phoenix, Jordan West (mod)
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 3
How often do we get a story where the zombie is the hero? Let's talk about the first two seasons and what we hope for and expect from the third season, especially with Vaughn dead and the introduction of Vivian Stoll as a new nemesis for Liv and friends. Panelists: Grace Ulak, Kevin Eldridge, Damarra Atkins (mod), Kiah Nelson
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 3
Once again, the English language (and a few others) gets pun-ched, pun-ked, and pun-ji'd without fear of flying fruit! The Pun-El returns. Speech class was never like this! Panelists: Katie Dahl, Kyle Dekker, Margaret Eastman, Edward Eastman, Brian LaBounty
Do you enjoy talking about same-sex shipping? You're in luck! It's the annual panel brought to you by the "Now Kiss!" meme. Let's discuss the State of the Slash Union 2016. (This panel is 18+; we're gonna talk about the fan fiction with the porn.) Panelists: Bess Stuvenoxend, Skazka 9000, Brittany Nickel, Jo Thrace, Kes
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Edina
How can you deal with trolling in real life? How do you manage the conversation? What is the community's response? What does a "safe space" mean? Panelists: Jen Manna, Simon Bitdiddle, Hal Bichel (mod)
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 7
The Killer B's show is film, improv comedy, and live music rolled together into a burrito of joy. As clips of strange movies play onscreen, a team of voice actors and musicians create a whole new soundtrack...without ever seeing the movies before! Panelists: Kirsten Wade, Joseph Scrimshaw, Melissa Kaercher, Jerry Belich, Kelvin Hatle, Molly Glover, Tim Uren, Scott Keever
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 6
Late-night adults-only hours for LAN - bring your friends up to 22 for a game against your 18+ friends! Room is open as late as the LAN crew can put up with your shenanigans, or 2:00 AM, whichever comes first! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 1:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2208
If these two cars were represented musically and were to clash in a head-on, all-out battle- who would come out on top? You, of course, because you'd get to dance to some of the faster and more aggressive audio escapades that we have to offer. We'll keep you topped off with guzzoline as we spend an evening focusing on industrial, hard electro, trance, and whatever the man with the flaming guitar decides we should play. Panelists:
Friday July 1, 2016 11:30pm - Saturday July 2, 2016 5:30am CDT
DoubleTree Main Stage
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Demoniacs, mindless creatures mysteriously born from human corpses, have Germany under siege. A task force is formed to combat the threat, and are shocked to discover new, thinking Demoniacs developing from living humans. The Blassreiter rises above these other Demoniacs, capable of saving the world or destroying it. Panelists:
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
In the year 2062, the world's two superpowers are fighting a long and brutal war. Pilot Kei Katsuragi is given the mission to detonate a super weapon called the Space/Time Oscillation Bomb, and the results are completely unexpected: a multitude of dimensions, times, and realities are unleashed into the world. Panelists:
If you have registered for the Masquerade, come and get last-minute information about the tech rehearsals, judging, and the show. Masquerade participants must attend one of the orientation sessions. Panelists: Gregory de Danann
The wizard Kukuruku builds a castle using dolls transformed from men as building parts. To help a girl named Cherry recover the kindness in her brother, who is a student of Kukuruku, the adorable unicorn Unico must do battle with the wizard. Panelists:
Explore rockets using safe physical and chemical reactions! Make little rockets with just water and Alka-seltzer, and see the famous "Coke and Mentos" demonstration. Learn more about how rockets get us where we want to go. Safe and fun for all ages. Panelists: Nicole Gugliucci
Disney is known for rewriting classic literature in their trademark vanilla style, turning age-old stories into products they can sue over. Now they are even rewriting their own stories. How far can Disney-style recycling go? Are any myths out of reach? Panelists: William Leisner, Jim McDoniel, Alex Bledsoe, Josiah Mannion, Michael Damian Thomas (mod)
Building a comprehensive world, whether it is for a novel, comic, or serial can be a huge challenge. Join the panelists as they discuss tools, strategies, and both successes and failures in world-building. Panelists: J.M. Lee, Melissa Olson, Michael Carus (mod), Greg Weisman, Lynne M Thomas
Where do you look? How do you find an artist if you're self-publishing? What do the big houses do? What do you need to know? Panelists: Brea Behn, Joan Marie Verba, Aimee Kuzenski, Patrick Marsh (mod), Chrysoula Tzavelas
Today anime is hotter than ever, but what did fans do years ago before the Internet made it so accessible? Learn about fansubs, the hentai wars, and the "original senpais" of the early age. Panelists: Peter Lane, Ty Blauersouth (mod), Anna Waltz
Remember when we all would get in the car, drive for hours to get to a con? Neither do many others. Is this dying out as cons get more common and community-forming goes more online? Or is there still room for the long drive to mingle with your tribe? Panelists: Brianne Bilyeu, Michael Shappe
Many books include time travel, some more successfully than others. How does time travel affect plot lines and history in different ways in different books? What are some of the more creative uses of time travel and ways around the paradoxes? Panelists: Paul Weimer, phillip andrew bennett low, Scott Jamison (mod), Jim Tigwell, Tyler Tork
Flying Cars? Hoverboards? We’ll look at the predictions for transportation in the past and how they have played out in the present. Plus we'll look to the exciting near future of getting around. Panelists: Tom Kastan, Ryan Consell, Topher Hunter, Desiree Schell (mod)
What's makes a novel YA? Catcher in the Rye, A Clockwork Orange, and Stephen King's Carrie all feature teen protagonists and are no more violent than Hunger Games, Twilight or Harry Potter, yet only the latter are considered YA. Why? Panelists: Olivia James, Meredith Gillies, Sean Casey, Laura Zats
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
See live raptors such as owls, hawks, and falcons, and learn about them through a variety of hands-on props and activities. Panelists: Alison Falldin, Kelsey Griffin
Free Red Cross lunch coolers and badge ribbons for donors while supplies last. Sign up in rooms 107 and 108 (USS Nokomis/WDF) Thurs. or Fri. evening or at www.redcrossblood.org. Donors will be greeted in the main lobby, then sent out to the bloodmobile. Panelists:
Mido Ban and Amano Ginji are known as the Get Backers, retrievers with a success rate of 100%. Whatever is lost or stolen, they can definitely get it back, but few people actually want to hire them. As a result, the pair of them tend to do dangerous jobs. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Put a little swish in your step with a My Little Pony yarn tail to go on your belt! Tails can vary from one color to a full rainbow. Once the main tail is put together, we'll spend the rest of the time embellishing to make them our own! Great for all ages Panelists: Jem Jensen
Want to write the funny? Come and learn the techniques and tools for writing jokes, scripts, and books. We might even have a few laughs. It's as simple as one, two, badger. Panelists: Dave Walbridge
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
Possibly the most widely played RPG, D&D has some mighty flaws built into its design and play. It's complicated, based in an odd mixture of myths, and AC makes no sense whatsoever. Can the flaws be overcome by good players? Panelists: Pedro Rodriguez, Cetius d'Raven (mod), Bob Johnson, Scott Lynch, Cam Banks
Human spaceflight captures the imagination like nothing else, but robotic probes have explored the Solar System with relative ease. We'll weigh the costs and benefits of sending humans to other planets versus sending our robotic proxies. Panelists: Jim Tigwell, Amy Shira Teitel, Desiree Schell (mod), Nicole Gugliucci, Jason Thibeault
How will parenting change aboard your generational colony ship? The values you impart will determine the success or failure of the ship and how society develops once you arrive. What parts of Earth’s culture will you jettison? Panelists: Cassandra Phoenix, Topher Hunter, Kavin Senapathy
When you’re world building, how do the choices you make, such as setting, affect the decisions you make later about plot? Has your world inspired your plot more than your plot has inspired your world? Panelists: Jean-Marie Sobeck, Michael May (mod), Dana Baird, Jack Reher, Kelly McCullough
Norton Juster's "The Phantom Tollbooth" is full of word play you may not have caught when you read it as a child. Let's discuss the book through an adult's eyes. Panelists: Lis Morton, David Schwartz, Joel Arnold, Paul Weimer, Lyda Morehouse (mod)
There's a fine line between diverse representation and tokenism, but where is that line? The panel discusses how to make inclusion of non-white/non-male characters substantive, and whether highlighting diversity bolsters or undermines the effort. Panelists: Tanya DePass, Jonathan Palmer, Mark Oshiro, Ytasha Womack, Rob Callahan (mod)
Do you think a TIE fighter is an effective spaceship? Discuss both practical and impractical designs you have seen in science fiction. Panelists: Alexander Taylor, Katie Dahl, Rebecca Barney, Daren Dochterman
Heroes come in every size, every shape, and every color. From Jubilee, Black Widow, and Ms. Marvel to Cyborg, Oracle, and Hawkeye, we'll discuss the importance of diversity in the superhero biz. Panelists: Khary Payton, Greg Weisman, Christopher Jones, Lynne M Thomas, Bri Lopez Donovan
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Hey you, let's fight! Them's drinkin' words! Return to Red Dragon Inn where adventurers gather to drink, gamble and brawl when they get back from killing the monsters. Last one sober(ish) with money to spend wins! 5 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Join us a Tournament of Champions! The greatest warriors will face off in a contest of might. Registration is limited & restrictions apply. To Register Visit: http://www.assassins.celticmagicinc.com/2016-tournament/ Panelists: David Bianchi
This is the one we were *hoping* someone would pull this year - the twisted example of WRONG that sparked the Doom Box: My Little Pony + Call of Cthulu... come find out what happens when Friendship is Madness! 6 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Mark Wyler (mod)
One of the most popular games in the world. Team tournament matches will be held during the morning, with finals on Saturday afternoon. Also available for team play during open gaming/late night gaming. **PERSONAL ACCOUNT REQUIRED** Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
What does Vegazi have to do with the raiders' diabolical plot? Who will rally Arwyll Stead now that the town's icon has been cut down? And who is the mastermind orchestrating the orc tribe's alliance with devils from beyond? 5 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Jeffrey Reed (mod)
A recent discovery by the Pathfinder Society has revealed a brief opportunity to navigate the Gloomspires safely and search for the lost treasure of Sevenfingers. Unfortunately, the Pathfinders are not the only visitors... 5 players, age 13+ Panelists: Keith Apperson (mod)
Each player gets a Value Box of 30 rares & 400 commons / uncommons - open the box, make a deck - everything else is usable as sideboard to change up your deck between matches! $15 event ticket from Dreamer's Vault Games dealer booth, 64 player max! Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Quests are a series of 1 hour adventures meant to take new players through their first experiences with the Pathfinder Society. Quests will be run throughout the day whenever players are available. 5 players, age 13+ Panelists: Pathfinder Society (mod)
Every year, The Source brings some of their library of games to CONvergence - this table is reserved for playing games borrowed from that library in The Source's room. Please keep all borrowed games in the room while playing. Panelists: The Source (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
The most benevolent yet at the same most deadly super power ever known to mankind--both in the real world as well as in the world of Convergence!! Panelists: John Knowles
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Pick up your blank ballots for the Steam Century Scavenger Hunt at the 22nd floor Front Desk starting noon-ish on Friday. Instructions available at the table, and completed ballots due Sunday by noon. All are welcome! Panelists: Red Ribbon Society (mod)
Saturday July 2, 2016 12:00pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2200 Lobby
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Paul Cornell teaches cricket to Americans. This year he'll be teaching it outside - with real bats, balls and wickets! Fore! Or whatever you say in cricket... Location: Meet by Atrium 8 before we head outside. Panelists: Paul Cornell
One favorite types of transport: the dragon! Build a dragon puppet out of fleece and your imagination, simple hand sewing skills a plus. Kimberly from Joy Filled Puppets will guide you as you create a Night Fury, Ukrainian Underbelly, or Fire Drake. Panelists: Kimberly Baerg
There are other time machines in sci-fi besides the TARDIS. We'll talk about time travel, from H.G. Wells to the Time Tunnel to Quantum Leap. Panelists: Lathan Murrell, Sarah Prentice, William Leisner, Tyler Tork (mod), Niles Schwartz
Humanity may one day spread its influence beyond our planet. But colonization on Earth has been incredibly problematic, causing oppression and destruction in its wake. Can we colonize space without all the baggage? Panelists: Desiree Schell (mod), Cassandra Phoenix, Emily Finke, Celia Yost
Introducing children to Euro-style, deck building, and role playing games can start really early. Learn the do's and don'ts of explaining and introducing people (of all ages) to new styles of games. Craig: added Katarina Larsen Panelists: Katarina Larsen, Naomi Kritzer, Michael May, Kerry Peterson, Peter Larsen
From the recent portrayals of the Kingpin to the Joker, villainy has gotten complicated. When did people stop being bad and start being diagnosed? Panelists: Tim Lieder, Dana Baird, Axel Kohagen (mod), Jen Manna, Damarra Atkins
The Know-it-all-Cast is a live podcast where the hosts don't know what they are going to talk about until the audience tells them! Watch the debut recording of this new improvisational show featuring special guest experts! Panelists: Tim Wick, Andrea Wilkins
Saturday July 2, 2016 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
Most people think of trade routes as means to exchange goods and money. They are also the roads of culture and influence. Let's talk about the power trade routes have exerted on history and in genre. Panelists: Bradford Walker, Katie Dahl, Sigrid Ellis (mod), Emma Bull, Michael Carus
Two Soviet “Lunokhods” roamed the moon in the early 70s, run by 5-man teams from a secret facility in the middle of nowhere. Hear stories of choosing these people, their bizarre training, and life behind three guarded gates. Panelists: Jay Gallentine
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+. Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
With a roll of the dice, you determine whether to hurl a tankard of ale at the out-of-tune bard or smash a chair over the drunken barbarian's head. Treachery and chaos abound, as every game promises a new and hilarious tavern brawl! 5 players, age 13+ Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, age 13+. Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Come play (or learn) some quick, affordable, travel-sized games (Sushi-Go, Fluxx, Love Letter). Games will be started as folks arrive; no need to stay for the whole block – drop in and out as you please. All players welcome. Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Red Flags is a card game where players pick qualities that would make a perfect date for the “single” player. Then comes the date’s “red flag.” They “love to cuddle” and they're an “astronaut” but ... they “bring mom to the date?" 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
Facing starvation and abductions at the hands of fearsome mechanized bandits, the farmers of Kanna Village make the dangerous choice to hire samurai for protection. Through great risk and a bit of luck, they pull together seven samurai to battle the bandits and the merchants behind them. Panelists:
Join the Royal Manticoran Navy in David Weber's Honor Harrington Universe for a tactical simulation of the Saganami Island Battle! Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Elimination-style competition on a 2-player glass table-top arcade machine featuring games ranging from the classic to the bizzare. (Space Limited) Panelists:
CONvergence Guest of Honor Cam Banks runs a GenCon preview of Pillar of Fire – a new epic Science Fiction RPG from Atlas Games! Panelists: Cam Banks (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
However we get there, it'll be more enjoyable with a friend. Build your own cuddly Baymax-ian robot out of a simple sock. Recommended for ages 5 and up, with adult helper for hot glue safety. Panelists: Kathleen Lamb
Who are your favorite non-American authors? Which international sci-fi/fantasy books should we all add to our reading list? We'll talk current and classic, well-known to obscure gems. Panelists: David Schwartz, Anthony Eichenlaub, Sarah Humphries, Lee Harris (mod), Crystal Huff
What will the future run on? Will it be solar power, fuel cells, children's laughter, or unicorn farts? Scientists, engineers and enthusiasts speculate and debate what the future of fuel might look like. Panelists: Benny Vimes, Steven Theiss, Ryan Consell, Nicole Gugliucci, Desiree Schell (mod)
In previous improvised comedy CONspiracy panels we've brought you the "truth" about contrails, lizard people, and the dinosaurs being farmed in the hollow center of the moon. This year, we present a new truth: Monlock is peace, Monlock is truth. Panelists: Molly Glover, Nick Glover, Tim Wick, Jeremy Stomberg
What keeps X-wings in the air? How do scorpion tanks keep rolling? Military vehicle/aircraft maintainers share their stories & expertise on the reality of military-grade vehicle upkeep. Gain insight on how fantasy military vehicles might work...and break! Panelists: Chris Thompson, Leah Bloodgood, Kyle Dekker (mod), Sean Berry, David Rossing
Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon are all releasing original content, some of it taking us in interesting directions in sci-fi and fantasy. Will online original content soon make networks obsolete? Panelists: Alex Musial, Matt Gamble, Lyda Morehouse, Grace Ulak
Fans and professionals perform in a live original radio play written by animation and comic book writer Greg Weisman to totally pander to his geeky fans! Panelists: Christopher Jones, Greg Weisman, Khary Payton, Jim Kakalios
A comedy game show where contestants have to guess which of them is lying, and which of them is telling the truth, in which we learn a lot of weird facts about their lives... or not. Hosted by Paul Cornell. Panelists: Paul Cornell (mod), Joseph Scrimshaw, Amy Shira Teitel, C. Robert Cargill, Caroline Symcox, Amal El-Mohtar, Scott Lynch
Ryan will discuss how lessons from sci-fi and fantasy entertainment can help society respond to the novel issues created by accelerating breakthroughs in genetics, robotics, information technology, neuroscience, and nanotechnology. Panelists: Ryan Johnson
Saturday July 2, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
This signing is for Invited and other Participants to sign their work. Panelists: Tactical Pinup, Camille Griep, J.M. Lee, Kathryn Sullivan, Patrick Tomlinson, Jack Reher, Sharon Stiteler, Michael R. Underwood, Adam J. Whitlatch, Chrysoula Tzavelas, Taylor Cisco, Jay Gallentine, William Leisner, Joan Marie Verba, phillip andrew bennett
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+. Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Munchkin, twisted! Players use 1 of the different themes of munchkin, and compete to be the first to level 10. Fight monsters, level up, equip gear, loot treasure, and mess with other players in true Munchkin tradition. 6 players, age 13+ Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Quarriors - mighty mystical warriors who have the power to capture dangerous quarry from the untamed Wilds! They must conjure mysterious powers of Quiddity, cast powerful spells, and summon creatures to battle to overcome rivals! 4 players, ages 14+. Panelists: The Source (mod)
Slash is a card game where players make the best romantic pairings between the pop icon the “matchmaker” selects and one from their hand. Depending on the group, we’ll play rounds with or without “Meet the parents” storytelling. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
The Empire must fall. Our mission must succeed. By destroying their key bases, we will shatter Imperial strength and liberate our people. In 5 nights we reshape destiny or die trying - we are the Resistance! 7 players, age 16+. Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
Downfall is a tabletop RPG that explores the collapse of a society, a cataclysm brought about by a fatal Flaw at work within it. You tell the story of a hero who tries to save their world... But in Downfall, the hero fails. 3 players, age 16+ Panelists: Mark Wyler (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
To escape his parents' impossible expectations, Yuugo Hachiken enrolls at an agricultural boarding high school in Hokkaido. Contrary to his expectations, farm life is not simple or easy, and he has a lot to learn about livestock to catch up to his farm-raised classmates. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
This signing is for Invited and other Participants to sign their work. Panelists: Camille Griep, J.M. Lee, Kathryn Sullivan, Patrick Tomlinson, Jack Reher, Sharon Stiteler, Michael R. Underwood, Chrysoula Tzavelas, Taylor Cisco, Jay Gallentine, William Leisner, Joan Marie Verba, phillip andrew bennett low, Brea Behn, Aimee Kuzenski, Ro
Megalopolis is in trouble! Tachyon, Bunker and The Mighty Ra must team up to defend the city against the evil Baron Blade! The game is your opponent and your fellow players your trusted allies in justice. 5 players, ages 13+. Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Artists of skill level from novice to professional collaborate to make art master pieces using various media. Open to all ages. You might even get to go home with an amazing picture! Panelists: John Garner
Archery is everywhere these days. A bow and arrows are preferred by Robin Hood to Oliver Queen. What is the appeal of this sport? Find out the history of archery and its life in pop culture. What does it take to be an archer yourself? Panelists: Cetius d'Raven, Kristina Halseth, Renate Fiora (mod), Nicole LaBat, Edward Eastman
DC/Marvel comics are not being made for or read by teenagers. Is this a temporary trend? Generational? Is manga filling that spot in teen interests? Panelists: Michael May (mod), Cassandra Phoenix, Sean Casey, Meredith Gillies
Shows like Steven Universe and Avatar:The Last Airbender have given young folks a course in colonialism, that it is horrifying and not just done by The Baddies. Being on the good side means correcting things done for your benefit by the folks in charge. Panelists: Kiah Nelson, Gabriela Santiago, Amal El-Mohtar, Max Gladstone
How do you go from concept to final design? How do protect your intellectual property? Once your have your mascot, how do you make the most of her? Panelists: Christopher Jones, Dawn Krosnowski, Gordon Smuder
"If you want more diversity, you should go out and create it." That's just part of what needs to be done to get more representation in fiction. We will discuss the importance of creation, good representation, and support. Panelists: Michi Trota, Briana Lawrence, Jessica Walsh, Mark Oshiro, Abra Staffin-Wiebe (mod)
Fan-run conventions can have a lot of barriers for disabled people/people with disabilities. Let's have a discussion about how we can reduce those barriers and how doing so benefits our convention communities. Panelists: Hal Bichel (mod), Mandy Tempel, Bri Lopez Donovan, Jess Banks, Alisha Srock
Why is the AT-AT designed to be so difficult to navigate? Would the car from League of Extraordinary Gentlemen even work? What about time machines? We'll discuss our favorite examples of improbable transportation. Which vehicles do you want to ride in? Panelists: Katie Dahl, Kyle Dekker (mod), Craig A. Finseth, Mitchell Faas
Does your online persona affect your book or art sales? What are some basic principles for creators to craft a persona that is both genuine and audience friendly? Panelists: Adam J. Whitlatch, Kavin Senapathy, Melissa Olson, Tanya DePass, Tactical Pinup (mod)
A presentation on the basic tenets of copyright law for artists, including what is protected, what is fair use, and how to license work. Panelists: Boone Dryden, Rory Ni Coileain
Saturday July 2, 2016 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, age 13+. Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Come play (or learn) some quick, affordable, travel-sized games (Sushi-Go, Fluxx, Love Letter). Games will be started as folks arrive; no need to stay for the whole block – drop in and out as you please. All players welcome. Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Zombie apocalypse, Medieval setting! The Necromancers have unleashed the zombie apocalypse, and it's up to your party to take back the realm and punish those responsible! 5 players, age 16+ Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
Rumors of a lost shrine in the Segang Jungle draw the Pathfinder Society’s attention, but the prohibitive cost of sending a team into the wilds of Jalmeray threatens to shut down the expedition before it even begins. 5 players, age 13+. Panelists: Keith Apperson (mod)
Have you ever wanted to play a magic wielding, two headed, zombie with an inferiority complex in a Steampunk world and was told by the GM "NO, you can't play that!!"? Then this is the game for you. Panelists: Kenneth Justiniano (mod)
A quick preview of the thundering taiko drums that await in Harisen Daiko's Sunday performance on Mainstage (home of the Taiko Sci Fi medley!). Stop by the garden court to get a taste of Harisen BRINGING THE BOOM! Panelists: Steve Sylvestre
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Most ponykind live in isolated communities, far from civilization, but growing numbers have migrated to multiracial cities, where they trade, craft, and make their livings. Come join our party in Everglow, adventuring with these foremost of the Fey! Panelists: Dan McNitt (mod)
Searching for 2 gem keys to unlock the Vault of Larin Karr, the party is also en route to stop a diabolical telescope from being built which will summon a host of devils to raze the land... A long-running CONvergence D&D 3.5 adventure! Ages 12+ welcome. Panelists: Burl Zorn (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Strange sounds in the darkness and unearthly music from an old crystal radio are her only warning. A simple walk to her clubhouse catapults Asuna Watase into a nightmarish adventure that will take her beneath the Earth to a lost land, where she might discover the secret of life itself. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
This class focuses on folding an Origami Lotus flower, with other simple but stylish models to learn for those who complete it and want to learn something more, as well as a simple technique for cutting a square out of an ordinary sheet of paper. Panelists: Degon Pickel
Our invited professionals and guests talk about their experiences. What are the benefits and pitfalls? How do you divide and conquer the work? Panelists: Joseph Lee, Michael May, Adam J. Whitlatch, Monica Valentinelli, Cam Banks
7.8% of America has PTSD. Cons can be heavy with triggers. Share your coping techniques. Longtime CON fixture Bob Wagner will be present to share his insight and sign his book "What's Your Superpower? Living and Coping With PTSD". Non-sufferers welcome. Panelists: Bob Wagner, Brea Behn, Haddayr Copley-Woods, Amy Fischer, Stephanie Zvan (mod)
Strategies for starting and running a geeky small business. The discussion will include: funding strategies, selling online, involvement with local conventions & festivals, developing unique creations, testing the market, & working with fellow artisans. Panelists: Tania Richter, phillip andrew bennett low, Dorianne Jarchow, Anj Olsen
Saturday July 2, 2016 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
We're seeing more strong female characters in media, but many are still written into supportive roles, such as Hermione in the Harry Potter series and Wildstyle in the LEGO movie. Let's discuss these examples and more. Panelists: Chrysoula Tzavelas, Kathryn Sullivan, Crystal Huff (mod), Greg Weisman, Joan Marie Verba
Teleportation is not as easy as it looks. We’ll discuss the science that would be involved in various theories of teleportation and how it would affect our lives. How would it work? How would it make life easier? More complicated? Panelists: Lathan Murrell, Ryan Consell, Katie Dahl, Dan Berliner
TwinCitiesGeek.com is made by Minnesota geeks, for Minnesota geeks. Learn how it came about, and the effect that boosting the diverse gambit of voices in the community has on the community. Panelists: Madeline Vasaly, Rob Callahan (mod), Hal Bichel, Jonathan Palmer, Bri Lopez Donovan
From Rush's "2112" to the Decemberist's "The Hazards of Love," let's talk about storytelling in album form. With artists like Prince, Pedro the Lion, and Dio, what works and what is just noise? Panelists: Joel Arnold, Alex Bledsoe, Beth Kinderman (mod), Stephan Stomberg, Barb Abney
In “celebration” of the Nobel Prize winner who said women are always falling in love and crying in labs comes this comedic panel about the achievements and complexities of women in science. Women! What are they! Does anyone know!? Panelists: Bill Stiteler, Maria Walters, Emily Finke, Nicole Gugliucci
It's Geeks Without God's fourth birthday! We recorded our 1st episode at CONvergence in 2012 and have been delivering a new episode every week since. This panel will be a LIVE recording of the Geeks Without God atheist comedy podcast. Panelists: Kelly McCullough, Tim Wick, Molly Glover, Nick Glover, Amanda Marcotte
Players choose the roles of Agent Smith, Neo, Morpheus, Trinity, or play an Agent or Zionist. Any number of people can play, joining in and leaving at any time. Panelists: Shannon Green
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Munchkin, twisted! Each player uses a different theme of munchkin, and players compete to be the first to level 10. Fight the monsters, level up, equip gear, loot treasure, and (of course) mess with other players in true Munchkin tradition. Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Eternal Masters! $35 event ticket (packs cost more) from Dreamer's Vault Games dealers' booth gets you a 3-round booster draft using cards from the Eternal Masters release. 64 player max, Sheraton Garden Court. Prizes are in Eternal Masters packs! Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Once home of a self-immolation cult, the Citadel of Flame in Qadira's Meraz Desert was thought wiped out decades ago, but its rediscovery prompts the Pathfinder Society to send your team to close the book on Qadira's mysterious cult. 5 players, age 18+ Panelists: Jeffrey Reed (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (this showing is captioned) Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Prince Chagum is accused of being possessed by an evil spirit: the water demon, defeated by the emperor 100 years ago. Balsa, mercenary spear woman, is held by a mysterious vow to save eight souls before she dies. Can she fend off an entire empire and make Chagum her eighth soul? Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Ever wonder what makes a comet? Make your own! Explore how a comet is formed, learn how it moves through the Solar System, and see pictures of real comets in space. We'll use dry ice, so adult supervision is requested for young participants. Panelists: Nicole Gugliucci
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
That thing you posted? It's not real. Why do humans keep believing false things over and over, even though it's easier than ever to check the facts? We'll discuss the history and psychology of false beliefs and how they apply to the modern digital era. Panelists: Siouxsie Wiles, Kavin Senapathy, Brianne Bilyeu (mod), Abra Staffin-Wiebe, Stephanie Zvan
A live recording of Joseph’s comedy podcast about liking things a lot. Joseph will be joined by husband-and-wife, Bill and Virginia Corbett, to dive deep into the weird wizarding world of Harry Potter! Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw
What is the composer's role in original scores? How do they influence the tone of the film? Does the return of synth music, for example, signal a change in mood across films? Panelists: Dave Margosian, Scott Keever (mod), Matt Gamble, Adam Lueck
Eleven seasons in, and the world has not ended yet. Should it? Why do you think the show keeps on going? Panelists: Adam J. Whitlatch, Cassandra Phoenix, Alexandra Howes, Jennifer Lundstrom, Nicole LaBat (mod)
Join our esteemed authors for children’s storytime! Each author will read a favorite picture book to all children and adults attending. Help promote literacy development and enjoy some wonderful books. This event is open to kids of ALL ages. Panelists: Amal El-Mohtar, Paul Cornell, Melissa Olson, Alex Bledsoe, Lee Harris
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 12 players age 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Heroes: Characters from Blizzard all fighting in one MOBA. Hearthstone: Blizzard's free to play CCG. Come play matches throughout the day, with possible tournament style brackets available on request/demand. *PERSONAL ACCOUNT REQUIRED* for both games. Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Who will be the Biggest Munchkin of them All? Final round of the tournament restricted to Invitation-only, but spectators welcome… after all, what’s Muchkin without a little trash talk? Panelists: Andy Mullin (mod)
The panel where we talk about anything and everything *except* the CONvergence Masquerade. If you are interested in everything *except* the masquerade, this is the panel for you! Panelists: Melissa Kaercher, Derek Mahr, Jeremy Stomberg, Molly Glover
The CONvergence Masquerade is where those friends you used to have who disappeared for seven months in preparation for this convention can finally be seen again. Come see what they locked themselves away for. Showcasing the talents of costumers spanning all skill levels from beginners to masters, awards are given by judges for both workmanship and presentation. Panelists:
Start with a captain and a ship, hire and equip a crew, travel the'Verse to complete jobs and get paid while avoiding Reavers, Alliance patrols and rival captains who may be pirates. 4 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Stan Carlson (mod)
Misspent Youth is a tabletop pen-and-paper roleplaying game about friendship, rebellion, and kicking @$$. In the game, you play 12- to 17-year-old kids in a future world screwed-up beyond recognition by The Authority. Up to 4 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Mark Wyler (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
*Schedule change* Bean Bandit and his partner Rally Vincent are couriers for hire. When they are hired to escort a girl to her home, they don't realize they're being framed for her kidnapping. Panelists:
Have fun at participating party rooms Friday and Saturday evenings AND be rewarded for it. Ballots and instructions available on the 22nd floor. Return ballots to the Gaming Badging Station by noon Sunday to claim your prize. Panelists: Red Ribbon Society (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Join Guest of Honor Cam Banks for an opportunity to choose your own adventure and design a game. Use cardboard, paper, and various craft materials. Members can strike it solo or collaborate with each other to create a board game or card game. Panelists: Cam Banks
From comics to TV to movies, reboots of old and even modern properties are eclipsing new content. What drives the desire of creators to strip mine ideas of the past to create "new" properties? Can a "reboot" ever supersede the original? Panelists: Aaron Coker (mod), Satish Jayaraj, Michael May, Jon Durmin, Damarra Atkins
The Jupiter II! The Spindrift! The Seaview! The television shows of Irwin Allen produced a number of iconic vehicles that have carried so many fans into worlds of imagination! Join us in a fond remembrance of these classic ships of the 60s! Panelists: Craig A. Finseth (mod), Christopher Jones, Bryon Stump, Jim Kakalios
It's been a while since we talked about the state of genre works on-stage. What's new (and old and new again) in the realms of offerings for the geeky theater-lover? Panelists: Eli Effinger-Weintraub, Lee Harris (mod), Lana Rosario, John Heimbuch
It's not just "filler": travel between point A and point B in tabletop RPGs is crucial storytelling time. But how do you make it work so that traveling the road is more than random encounters? How do you do it in settings where travel is instantaneous? Panelists: Beth Kinderman, David Rust, Eric Zawadzki, Jamie Riedesel, Ross Conklin (mod)
Ownership is complicated - just because you own something, doesn't mean you have the rights to it. A rather fun look at ownership - especially art, ideas and digital forms by a non-lawyer. Yes we will cover various forms copyright, trademark & others. Panelists: Boone Dryden (mod), Tactical Pinup, Vernon McIntosh, Sarah Heller
The Netflix original series presents arguably the most complex, nuanced Marvel character to date in the antihero Jessica Jones. Join us to discuss season 1 of Jessica Jones and what we expect and hope for from season 2. Panelists: Keane Amdahl (mod), David Schwartz, Olivia James, Grace Ulak, Lyda Morehouse
So we got a continuation of the Sandman's Lucifer, retired from Hell, living in L.A. as a TV show. Does the concept work as a show? Panelists: Ty Blauersouth, Alexandra Howes
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Award winning zombie co-op action horror FPS takes you and your friends through the cities, swamps and cemeteries of the Deep South, from Savannah to New Orleans, across five expansive campaigns. Complete with asymmetrical versus mode, fun for all! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
BYOB!! Return to Red Dragon Inn where adventurers gather to drink, gamble and brawl when they get back from killing the monsters. Last one sober(ish) with money to spend wins! 6 players. Panelists: The Source (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Held once every five years, everyone wants to stake their claim to fame at Redline, the most deadly racing tournament in the universe. All the while, organized crime and militaristic governments want to leverage the race to their own ends. Can a high speed romance survive a mass destruction race? Panelists:
Learn about day-to-day life on a submarine from those who have lived it. And boy do they have stories to tell. All questions will be answered with varying degrees of dignity. This panel will likely contain mature content inappropriate for children. Panelists: Doug Kirks, Dan Stiglich, Andrew McKay, Christopher Baye, Kyle Dekker (mod)
The works of H.P. Lovecraft and the Cthulhu mythos have been represented in films, in audio dramas, in comic books, on stage, in video games, in board games, and in role playing games. How well do these other media capture Lovecraft's work? Panelists: Kevin Horner, Tim Uren (mod), Skazka 9000
How does oppression intersect with the experience of chronic pain? How are different groups perceived when they express the need for healthcare or reasonable accommodation for their pain or other invisible illness? Panelists: Jamie Riedesel (mod), Katy Kelley, George Miller, Kris Coulter, Sarah Prentice
It's become more and more evident that there's massive crossover in the geek and kink communities, even in the works we love. This is a chance to learn, and ask questions, about sexuality, gender, fetishes - and find out just what the heck THAT means! Panelists: Lathan Murrell, Samantha Bitner, Luxander Pond, Bri Lopez Donovan, Damarra Atkins (mod)
Masculine tropes are common for heroes, but toxic masculinity is being increasingly explored in villains and antagonists today - Jessica Jones, for example. What is toxic masculinity and how does it lend itself to evil or misguided characters? Panelists: Cassandra Phoenix, Chrysoula Tzavelas, Chrysoula Tzavelas, Olivia James, Amanda Marcotte, Rebecca Watson
No engines, no wings. Walking may be slow, but requires no extra equipment. Let's discuss the classic perambulatory journeys in books and film. Panelists: Linda White, Elizabeth Bear, Scott Jamison, Aaron Coker
What kind of trouble have Hank and Dean gotten into this season? How super is the science? What are the odds of survival for the Venture family? Panelists: Lis Morton, Ben Blanchard, Molly Glover, Nick Glover (mod), Nick Stoner
The tradition continues as an intrepid team of masochistic geeks test questionable booze for your entertainment. Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw, Melissa Kaercher, Jerry Belich, Bill Stiteler, Laurie Richardson, C. Robert Cargill, Barb Abney, Virginia Corbett
Not witnessed in this corner of the galaxy since solar cycle 2002, Zurround returns from their tour of GN-z11 for a limited engagement in the Space Lounge! They're bringing you the latest in interstellar beeps and beats to activate your kundalini. Panelists:
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
It's your last chance to try to survive 5 nights as the new guard at Freddy Fazbear's Pizza - beware the animatronics, and keep your wits about you! Survivors go home with ribbons, and this one is DEFINITELY not for kids! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players age 13+. Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Sandbox After Dark presents: Body Painting! You paint, we paint, it's fun for everybody! This year we'd also like to do an additional large project on one volunteer as a collaboration of multiple artists working together. 18+ Bring ID. Panelists: John Garner
Saturday July 2, 2016 10:00pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:00am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 2
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Saturday July 2, 2016 10:00pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:00am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 4
Do you like movies with convoluted plots, betrayal and redemption, insanity and jealousy all rolled into a ball of misanthropy and murder? Fiasco – a game about people with strong desires and weak self -control. 6 players, age 18+ (with ID) Panelists: Robert "Ski" Cudinski (mod)
Jetpacking Rambo, pulling any weapon out of his arse? 100-story-tall, bee-belching, Sherlock Holmes? Create a random character and do what nerds do best; argue ridiculous points about made up people! Broken... wrong... SUPERFIGHT! 7 players, age 18+ Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
The foul-mouthed, inappropriate, twisted, slightly-crazed, biker-gang brother of that classic party favorite, Apples to Apples. Bring your ID, your *wrong*, and your sense of humor – you’ll need all of them! Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Saturday July 2, 2016 10:00pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2201
This evening's dance starts with our traditional 2-hour celebration of science-fiction and geek-related music in all forms. We'll hit critical speed and make you groove to the classics and speed back to the present for all the latest in parodies and tributes. The night continues into the wee hours as we pump out deep grooving electro, psychedelic trance, and dirty beats with some of your favorite mixes to keep your energy going at full speed. Please note: the Doubletree Bloomington has asked that we keep all hoverboards off (and also not above) the dance floor, though self-tying shoes are encouraged. Panelists:
Saturday July 2, 2016 10:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 6:30am CDT
DoubleTree Main Stage
Visit the best transit station lounge in space and enjoy your layover. Social hosts are available to help you select appropriate smoothie refreshment between stops, double-check arrivals and departures, or direct you to your next departure point. Panelists:
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:00pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 2:00am CDT
DoubleTree Veranda 8
It doesn't bother Shinji that his father (who might be a pimp) thinks giant robots are babe magnets. It doesn't bother him that he shares an apartment with a strangely masculine German girl. It doesn't even bother him that the world may be coming to an end thanks to a Prince song. The only thing on Shinji's mind is the nookie, whatever that is. Panelists:
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 1
The air might turn blue as you listen to these miscreants talk smut about some of our favorite animated characters. Panelists: Greg Weisman, Khary Payton, Christopher Jones, Lyda Morehouse, Jenna Powers
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 6
On its surface Broad City seems like merely a buddy comedy with women, but look closer and you'll find a groundbreaking feminist comedy that shows a side of women's lives that other shows are afraid to touch. Yas Kween! Panelists: Jamie Bernstein (mod), Amy Roth, Rebecca Watson
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Plaza 3
North Country Gaylaxians read 10 to 12 books with positive portrayals of LGBTQAI situations and characters or from LGBTQAI authors in a year. This panel will give an update on the books we’ve read, which we thought were good, which we disliked and why. Panelists: Donald Kaiser (mod), Claudia Slovacek, David Lenander, Kendra Akin
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 2
Satirical trailers are some of the best humor around. We'll share our favorite examples of honest trailers. Panelists: Dave Margosian, Damarra Atkins, Niles Schwartz
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 7
Back by popular demand! Join our expert panel of readers as they explore the "best" in SFF erotic fiction. Dramatic readings assisted by a healthy dose of humor and alcohol, along with completely scientific diagrams. Panelists: Windy Bowlsby, Kristina Winn, Kate Cornish, Scott Raleigh, Katie Rumley, Katie MacInnes, Katherine Affeldt, Molly Hair
Have you ever noticed how the world needs saving every five minutes, but nobody ever seems to get sick? Let's change that! Join us as we machinate magical maladies, discuss dragon dysentery, and hypothesize a hobbit hantavirus! Panelists: Siouxsie Wiles, Brianne Bilyeu (mod), Jon Durmin, Emily Finke, Topher Hunter
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Edina
Use a time machine for historical or geological research? Ha! According to time travel romance novels, you use it for hooking up. Is it better to have loved, lost, and moved on, or keep screwing up until you latch onto that special someone in the past? Panelists: phillip andrew bennett low, Renate Fiora, Tyler Tork (mod)
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 12:30am CDT
DoubleTree Atrium 3
It's the last night for late-night adults-only hours for LAN! Room is open as late as the LAN crew can put up with you, or 2:00 AM, whichever comes first! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Saturday July 2, 2016 11:30pm - Sunday July 3, 2016 1:00am CDT
DoubleTree 2208
Guest of honor and local favorite Joseph Scrimshaw worked on the writing crew for a recently released Rifftrax. He’ll discuss the process and the film, and then you get to see it. See at-con publications for what movie. Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw
Ken Kaneki, a shy, bookish college student, is instantly drawn to Rize Kamishiro, an avid reader like himself. However, Rize is not exactly who she seems, and this unfortunate meeting pushes Kaneki into the dark depths of a new, inhuman world. Panelists:
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (this showing is captioned) Panelists:
Following the collision of an ice asteroid, massive terraforming has made Venus a planet capable of supporting life, but war has followed. Hiro Seno, a hotshot motorcycle jockey, witnesses the first strike against his country Aphrodia and soon finds himself fighting for his life on the front lines. Panelists:
Nine of Japan's leading animators were asked to create a short segment that followed the theme of "Robots." The common element is human interaction with robots, namely the consequences of creating life with one's own hands, played in nine very different ways. Panelists:
KIDS!! Bring your parents to this Exciting Story and Activity Hour. Crayon (Caryn Lengeek) leads this wonderful CONvergence staple. Panelists: Caryn Lengeek
Those few, those happy few, that band of artists...are art collectives becoming more prevalent in the digital age? How do you create one and keep it healthy? Panelists: phillip andrew bennett low, Sarah Heller (mod), Lee Blauersouth, Amal El-Mohtar, Max Gladstone
Two comedians in London started something kinda like church, but way more fun, totally secular, and inclusive of all. Community, without the God or the guilt. It's called Sunday Assembly, and there's a Minneapolis chapter. Sound cool? Come learn more. Panelists: Erin O'Brien, Erin McCrorey, Matt McCrorey
Patrick Rothfuss's Kingkiller Chronicle is about to be made into a movie, TV series, and video game. Let's talk about our fears and expectations for each incarnation. Panelists: Beth Kinderman, Eric Zawadzki, George Miller (mod), Kerry Peterson
This Netflix sci fi series explores politics, identity, sexuality, gender and religion through eight strangers with a mysterious connection. How did it do? Panelists: David Schwartz, Brianne Bilyeu (mod), Laura Okagaki-Vraspir, Jonathan Palmer, Grace Ulak
Come talk about all the ins and outs of writing your first book for national novel writing month in November! Panelists: Patrick Tomlinson (mod), David Rust, Eli Effinger-Weintraub, Nicole LaBat, Rory Ni Coileain
Want to become a pilot for the Resistance? Or maybe enlist as a First Order Storm Trooper. Join our panelists from the Minnesota Force, Rebel Legion, and 501st for tips on crafting your very own Resistance flight suit and more Star Wars costumes! Panelists: Jon Durmin (mod), Amanda Fineran, Jeff Scalise, Philip Glover
Some of the creative forces behind the Young Justice TV show and comics come together to talk shop and the future. Panelists: Khary Payton, Greg Weisman, Christopher Jones
If you've ever wondered how to start your own podcast, this panel is for you! We're here to answer any and all of your questions on podcasting, whether it be how to get started, specifics on sound equipment, or even what a podcast is. Panelists: Amanda Jade (mod), Christopher Martinez, Michael Grimm, Jerry Stearns
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Mondays suck and this one sucks more than most. Now it's just you, your co-workers and a building full of zombies. Fight your way to safety or join the menu in this encore of a CONvergence classic. 6 players, age 13+. Panelists: Bob Wagner (mod)
Sakamichi Onoda, a cheerful otaku looking to finally make friends, is disappointed to learn his new school's anime club was disbanded. When a competitive cyclist classmate sees him powering up a hill on his old bike to Akihabara, he might have a chance at friends (and an anime club) after all. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
The Red Ribbon Society hosts an hour of steampunk-themed crafts. Create a mechanical collage, color your own vintage paper dolls, assemble beads, or build a helium airship! Panelists: Kevin Borchers
Sunday Morning Standard for all the early birds! $8 event ticket gets you rounds of Standard play plus prizes - 8 packs for 4-0, 4 packs for 3-1, and at least 2 packs to everyone who wasn't as lucky. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Some people think fandom is only for the young folks. Let's discuss why this idea is wrong, and where fandom gets better as it ages. Panelists: Joan Marie Verba, Cassandra Phoenix, David Rust (mod), Emilie Peck, Bess Stuvenoxend
Want to squeal/sob about your favorite Undertale characters, plotlines, and secrets? Want to talk about how queerness and nonbinary gender is represented in the game? Have cool theories to share? Bring all your determination to this panel! Panelists: Allyson Cygan, Lyda Morehouse, Jason Thibeault (mod), Luxander Pond, Anna Besmann
H.P. Lovecraft's legacy is large, but he was also a racist. His likeness for the World Fantasy Award was recently removed. How do you reconcile being a fan of someone's material when they have a problematic history? Panelists: Axel Kohagen (mod), Mark Goldberg, Monica Valentinelli, Derek "Duck" Washington, Mark Oshiro
Jessica Jones, Iron Fist, Agent Carter, Daredevil, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., and more--Marvel's TV lineup appears to be going strong! Let's talk about this year's hits and misses. Panelists: Karen Guest (mod), Keane Amdahl, Jonathan Palmer, Michelle Farley, Chris Severin
What will happen when we build out beyond our planet? This panel will explore space elevators, Dyson spheres, and other non-planetary destinations for life in space. Panelists: Topher Hunter, Ryan Consell (mod), William Donohue, Nicole Gugliucci, Elle Kennedy Cadieux
Sunday July 3, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Crowne Plaza U
Let's discuss how adding backstory (history, family, etc.) to a character can aid both the player and the game master in crafting a better game. From motivations to plot devices, a fleshed-out character often has more to offer than filling an archetype. Panelists: Cetius d'Raven, Cam Banks, Laura Thurston, Michael Carus (mod), Hertzey Hertz
This is our annual look at how space exploration, robotic and human, is faring under the cash-strapped Obama administration. Panelists: Eric Heideman, Michael Kauper, Ben Huset
Come learn more about the nature-inspired aesthetic, sustainable living, and optimistic near-future idealism behind one of the newest and fastest-growing 'Punk' movements today! Panelists: Peregrin Winkle, Sarah Heller (mod), Renate Fiora, Eli Effinger-Weintraub
All silent auction items that went to voice auction will be sold at this charity auction benefiting the Geek Partnership Society. Panelists: Melissa Kaercher, Ann Roubik
Kavin Senapathy, Forbes contributor, co-Executive Director of March Against Myths, and co-author of the book the natural and organic food industry doesn't want you to read, will read selected passages from her book, The Fear Babe. Panelists: Kavin Senapathy
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
In Concept, your goal is to guess words through the association of icons. A team of two players – neighbors at the table – choose a word or phrase that the other players need to guess. 6 players, ages 12+ Panelists: The Source (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Try your skills at making the best battle vehicle! Take your car through Rocks? Demons? Silly putty? Let’s see if you have the designing skills that pay the bills! Bonus: you get to keep your picture of your awesome ride! 10 players, age 13+ Panelists: Katie Dahl (mod)
Your last chance for Chaos at CONvergence! Uses cards from any Magic set released in 15-card packs. Get your $15 event ticket at Dreamer's Vault Games dealer booth - 3 rounds of play, 1 prize pack per round won; 3-0 gets 1 bonus booster pack. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
Sunday Morning Standard for all the early birds! An $8 event ticket gets you 4 rounds of Standard play plus prizes - 8 packs for 4-0; 4 packs for 3-1; and 2 for those who weren't as lucky. Panelists: Dreamer's Vault Games (mod)
During the recent attack on Nerosyan, Pathfinders sought out a local venture-captain to aid in the city’s defense. What they found instead suggested the leader had not only fled recently but had played a part in the demons’ offensive... 5 players, age 13+ Panelists: Brett Indrelee (mod)
Chill out on Sunday with a little Open Gaming to close it all out. Relax and kick some tail in LAN gaming while you recover from last night's parties, shows, or shenanigans! Panelists: LAN Gaming (mod)
Quests are a series of 1 hour adventures meant to take new players through their first experiences with the Pathfinder Society. Quests will run throughout the day whenever there are folks who want to play. 5 players, age 13+ Panelists: Hilary Moon Murphy (mod)
Every year, the Source brings games from their library to CONvergence for our attendees to play - this table is reserved for folks who'd like to do so, all we ask is that the games you borrow not leave the room. Panelists: The Source (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
After losing his mother, Lag Seeing becomes a letter whose delivery is assigned to Gauche Suede, a Letter Bee. The two of them eventually become friends, leading Lag to realize his calling: to deliver people's most important feelings in the form of letters, just as Gauche has done. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
How do we get there by air? In a fancy balloon! Use decorative paper to create the steampunk conveyance of your wildest dreams! Panelists: Nikita Woltersen
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
When people say "artist", many people think only of painters and graphic designers. But art has more dimensions. Come discuss the artistic process with sculptors, musicians, and other non-residents of Flatland. Panelists: Tania Richter, Elise Matthesen, Windy Bowlsby (mod), Michael Zecca, Carl Zachmann
The worst elements of any story - in books, movies, TV-seem to have one thing in common: lazy writing. Let's discuss examples of cliches, tropes, predictability, stereotypes, and more that all come down to copying and pasting rather than original writing. Panelists: Alex Musial, Jorge Salgado-Reyes, Ben San Del (mod), Laura Zats, Mark Oshiro
Spend an hour with the admins of the "Twin Cities Geeks" Facebook group and learn all about the goals, challenges, mistakes, and rewards unique to running a large, diverse internet community of Minnesota geeks. Panelists: Hal Bichel (mod), Bri Lopez Donovan (mod), John Garner (mod), Vincent Hopwood (mod), Cynnthia Michaels (mod), Rachel Rand (mod)
Come for a recap of the results from Saturday’s Masquerade. Talk with the winners. See the entries up close and learn a little more about the costumes. This is less a panel and more show and tell from the winning costumers. Panelists: Gregory de Danann
Cons use panels the way the dark side goes through death stars. The sit-and-talk format has many problems, yet it's the most common form of programming, everywhere. Let's discuss the problems of panels . . . on a panel. Panelists: Michi Trota, Ben Blanchard, David Walbridge (mod), Jen Manna
Hear about the adventures of Rain Cacique, a girl who can see ghosts, as she explores a hidden new world at the edge of the Bermuda Triangle, her home. Ask Greg Weisman about the series of books as well as AudioPlays based on them. Panelists: Greg Weisman
Rivers frequently play a large role in transportation in many worlds. Let's talk about some of the memorable riverboats in genre fiction. Panelists: Boone Dryden (mod), Emma Bull, Ruth Berman
Ever wondered how dragons could REALLY breathe fire? How the Hulk’s body can handle...hulking out? Why Wookies have claws they don’t use? The panelists from Cryptofauna 101 return to apply real biological principles to answer these questions and more! Panelists: Jon Durmin, Vernon McIntosh, Jessica Miller
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Come play (or learn) some quick, affordable, travel-sized games (Sushi-Go, Fluxx, Love Letter). Games will be started as folks arrive; no need to stay for the whole block – drop in and out as you please. Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Card game where players make the best romantic pairings between the pop icon the “matchmaker” selects and one from their hand. Depending on the group, we’ll play rounds with or without “Meet the parents” storytelling. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
The artists return to the Thunderdome with new challenges to challenge their brain and their artistic integrity. Join us to find out how artists can achieve the IMPOSSIBLE! Panelists: Jerry Belich, Melissa Kaercher, Louis Frank, Danielle Pebbles, Holly Chamam, Dawn Krosnowski, Tim Wick, Christopher Jones, Ruth Thompson
On a remote planet, the worst criminal scum from a dozen star systems have been dumped, charged with building new lives under the watchful eye of Authority. Only the shrewdest, the toughest and the luckiest will succeed. 4 players, age 16+ Panelists: Mark Wyler (mod)
Start with a captain and a ship, hire and equip a crew, travel the 'Verse to complete jobs and get paid while avoiding Reavers, Alliance patrols and rival captains who may be pirates. 6 players, age 13+ Panelists: Stan Carlson (mod)
Searching for 2 gem keys to unlock the Vault of Larin Karr, the party is also en route to stop a diabolical telescope from being built which will summon a host of devils to raze the land... A long-running CONvergence D&D 3.5 adventure! Ages 12+ welcome. Panelists: Burl Zorn (mod)
An operative fed up with the Aspis Consortium's practices has contacted the Pathfinder Society: assist her in leaving, and she will supply the Society with years of insider intelligence about their longstanding rival. 5 players, ages 13+ Panelists: Jason Rosauer (mod)
Murder Mystery - Golden Bough Clan Member has been murdered - the clan master has tasked you to solve this incident...within the 5 intercalary days. Panelists: Donald Kaiser (mod)
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Players in The Game try to discard all 98 cards in the deck onto four discard piles in order to win, but they need to do so in the right ways. 4 players, ages 16+ Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (with English subtitles) Panelists:
Any seats not used by tournament play are open for casual players until the room closes when the last tournament ends or at 3 pm, whichever is later. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Valkyrie Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Valkyrie, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Easily the premiere go-to event for those that aren't still sleeping in their Sunday, Harisen Daiko presents CONvergence with a unique interpretation of science-fiction themes via traditional Japanese percussion and performance. Panelists:
Come play in our two unique and customized bridges for the Artemis Bridge Simulator! Physical sign-up sheets will be available in the room daily. The online Sched system is for interest in playing Artemis, it does not reserve you for the time slot. Panelists: The Royal Manticoran Navy (mod)
Learn to turn fiber into yarn. Explore physics, biology, history and chemistry in One fun panel! Create your own paper spindle and learn to use it. Discuss fiber which can be spun, both traditional & New. Kid Friendly project. Panelists: Char Haas
The Merc with a Mouth got a movie with moxie. Or did it? Come discuss your opinion of the film. Panelists: Keane Amdahl (mod), Satish Jayaraj, Grace Ulak, Sean Casey, Damarra Atkins
What books, movies, and TV shows seem to rely on physical disabilities and mental illness stereotypes in place of realistic portrayals? We'll discuss why these portrayals are problematic and how they could have been done better. Panelists: Sarah Prentice, Haddayr Copley-Woods, Josie Browning, Jess Banks (mod)
A live recording of the Doctor Who podcast "Get Off My World!" featuring passionate opinion, idiosyncratic expression, general nerdery and an opportunity for audience-suggested topics. Panelists: Joseph Scrimshaw, Joshua Scrimshaw, Pat Harrigan, Kelvin Hatle
Space Battleship Yamato/Argo is one of the iconic vehicles of science fiction anime. We will be looking at the classic series, the dub, the movies, and the remakes. We might even have a singalong of the American theme song! Panelists: Scott Jamison (mod), Daren Johnson, Lyda Morehouse, Nick Stoner
From Nautilus to Sting Ray to Sea Quest and beyond, let's talk about submarines in science fiction and fantasy. Panelists: Michael May, Bryon Stump, Simon Bitdiddle, Christopher Baye (mod), Dan Stiglich
Costumes are frequently large and elaborate affairs. How do you build costumes that can travel well? Panelists: Melissa Sowers, Jordan West, Todd Murray, Nicole LaBat, Maggie Schultz (mod)
GoH will describe his career in the film industry, and what exactly a concept designer does, and his work in visual effects. He may even illustrate his work with slides! Panelists: Daren Dochterman
Have you made bad decisions today? Admit it to yourself: you love a bit of salacious gossip, most people do. In Bad Decisions, you and the other players team up to create the juiciest gossip, and the weirdest news stories. 12 players, age 13+ Panelists: Harry Thompson (mod)
Kitsune (pronounced kit-soo-nay) are Japanese fox-spirits, known for tricking unwary mortals. In this a game of luck and tactics, those who gain all nine tails of the mythical spirit fox earn their place among the kitsune elders. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Susan Price (mod)
Munchkin, twisted! Each player uses a different theme of munchkin, and competes to be the first to level 10. Fight the monsters, level up, equip gear, loot treasure, and (of course) mess with other players in true Munchkin tradition. 6 players, age 13+ Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Card game where players pick qualities that would make a perfect date for the “single” player. Then bring up the date’s “red flag.” The date might “love to cuddle” and is an “astronaut” but what if they “bring mom to the date? 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Chas Swedberg (mod)
Card game of UNO for ages 7 + with celebrating the convention theme of transportation was using the Disney Cars and Thomas the Train and Friends decks for all ages to come together for an awesome time! 10 players, age 7+ Panelists: Elizabeth Jones (mod)
The Syncam Corporation has sent the Saldes and its crew of thirteen (and one cat) out into deep space to explore a newfound planet 20 years away. Once they awaken from stasis, however, the crew find that not everyone is who they seem, and the mission becomes a struggle for survival. Panelists:
The Victorian Lady Doctors invite you to join us for our 5th Tea Party. Come dressed as your favorite Doctor, Companion, Villain, or Dedicated Fan. Various tea and dainties will be on offer. Photography encouraged. Tomfoolery highly encouraged. Panelists: Natasha Jo Krentz
Star Trek: Catan takes two well-known media properties and merges them into, well, into something that is 95% The Settlers of Catan glossed with Trek tropes and spiced with a Trek-themed version of a mini-expansion. 3 players, age 16+ Panelists: Eric R. Peterson (mod)
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! Panelists:
Discussion of issues related to culture and race as they apply to cosplay. What is cultural appropriation? How can it be avoided and prevented? How do you cosplay as a character with identity attributes different from your own? Panelists: Jonathan Palmer, Gregory Parks (mod), Briana Lawrence, Stephanie Kyola
Economics, food and where it comes from, spiritual systems, laws - all things that impact our daily lives but often get glossed over in fantasy world-building. Let's take a deep dive in building daily lives in fantasy worlds. Panelists: Tania Richter, Eli Effinger-Weintraub, Monica Valentinelli, Tyler Tork (mod)
This panel covers all geeky movies released since the past CONvergence. What was great? What wasn't? What were the underappreciated gems? Panelists: Matt Gamble, Elizabeth Reynolds, Niles Schwartz, Adam Lueck, Shaun Duke (mod)
Writing a novel? Wondering what to do with it when you're finished? We'll delineate the pros and cons between indie (self) publishing and traditional publishing in today's ever-changing marketplace, so you can make the choice that works for you. Panelists: Linda White, Laura Zats (mod), Fes Works, Boone Dryden
Let’s face it: The vehicles were the stars in Anderson's shows. Let's discuss them all, from Stingray to Thunderbirds to Space 1999. Panelists: Craig A. Finseth, Dave Romm (mod), Joan Marie Verba, Daren Dochterman
Why do we keep seeing the predictable villains of Big Corporate and Big Government? Are there any twists on these ideas? What new villain types might we see in the future that get away from these cliches? Panelists: phillip andrew bennett low, Anthony Eichenlaub, Daren Johnson (mod), Jamie Riedesel
More and more comics live online. Which web comics are the best of all time? Which are the best up-and-comers? Panelists: David Schwartz, Kathryn Sullivan, Meredith Gillies, Scott Jamison (mod), Boris Smelov
Steven Universe. It's the best. But why and/or how is it the best? What is it exactly? Why do genre professionals weep into their Twitter accounts at the very mention of it? Our panelists will discuss the most perfect cartoon to appear in recent memory. Panelists: Amal El-Mohtar, Ben Blanchard, Peregrin Winkle, Hal Bichel, Christopher Jones
The Helsinki Worldcon has the support of several people from the Twin Cities area. Come learn about Worldcon and why there are a number of fans, both local & national, actively involved in running the convention. Panelists: Michael Lee (mod), Crystal Huff, Doug Yoder
Munchkin, twisted! Each player uses a different theme of munchkin, and competes to be the first to level 10. Fight the monsters, level up, equip gear, loot treasure, and (of course) mess with other players in true Munchkin tradition. 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: Jennifer Bergk (mod)
Hey you, let's fight! Them's drinkin' words! Return to Red Dragon Inn where adventurers gather to drink, gamble and brawl when they get back from killing the monsters. Last one sober(ish) with money to spend wins! 8 players, age 13+ Panelists: The Source (mod)
In the midst of a war, the prince of the Levamme Empire proposes marriage to Juana del Moral. The mercenary pilot Charles accepts the mission to bring Juana to her fiance, but flying alone into enemy territory proves much more dangerous than anyone could have anticipated. Panelists:
See the full Cinema Rex schedule, including information about this film, in the printed Programming Guide, Grid, or stop in at Cinema Rex to see what's playing! (this showing is captioned) Panelists:
One last chance to reflect upon this year's convention before we clear the parking lot of all those spaceships. Panelists: Mark Oshiro, Amal El-Mohtar, Amy Shira Teitel, Cam Banks, Christopher Jones, Daren Dochterman, Joseph Scrimshaw, Ytasha Womack, Dawn Krosnowski, Greg Weisman