4:00-7:00 p.m., Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Star Trek: New Voyages
This non-profit internet series follows the continuing voyages of the U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701, picking up where the third season of the show left off. New Voyages is a wonderful tribute to Gene Roddenberry's vision, featuring high production values with sets nearly identical to those used in the original series and some familiar faces from the original cast, including Walter Koenig, William Windom, and Barbara Luna. (An episode guest-starring George Takei and Grace Lee Whitney is forthcoming.) www.startreknewvoyages.com
Note: This screening is free and open to the general public without a convention membership. Seating is available on a first-come first-served basis.
4:00-5:00 p.m., Krushenko's (Concierge/ Room 1332)
Discussion: Marvel's "Civil War"
Since last summer, a storyline has been running through Marvel Comics involving a government Superhuman Registration Act that splits the super hero community down the middle. Some, led by Iron Man, consider the act reasonable. Others, led by Captain America, view it as a violation of civil liberties, and form a resistance movement. In contrast to Marvel and DC's many overblown Universal Crisis storylines, "Civil War" is narrated at human scale and involves believable politics, as friend turns against friend over ideals. Which side would you be on?
Eric M. Heideman, mod.
5:00-6:00 p.m., Executive Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Q&A with Eric Larson
Come hear Ben Ellis interview our Fan Guest of honor Eric Larson and hear about his fanish experiences working with Lucasfilm and starting Filmcon.
Presenters: Ben Ellis, Eric Larson
5:00-6:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Building a Great Party Room
Presenters: Todd Coss, Nathan Lalum, Katie Nelson, Jennifer Peck, Roric LaLeech
5:00-6:00 p.m., Krushenko's
Presentation/Discussion: Night Voices, Night Journeys
"Night Voices, Night Journeys" is a series of translated books that are essentially H.P. Lovecraft-inspired horror stories from Japan. Discussion of the series and its impacts/implications.
Presenters: Bryan Thao Worra, Brian K. Perry
6:00-7:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Is Bioresonance the 21st Century's New Medicine?
Everything is based on frequency! You've seen it in Sci-fi books and films for over thirty years. Learn the basics and what corporation based out of the Twin Cities is a major international player in this technology. I will demonstrate a portion of the technology and have limited handouts available. If you bring a memory stick along, you may be able to copy some of my selected materials.
Presenter: Joe Swenson
6:00-7:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Amazons in Fiction and Reality
Women with swords. What's more fun than that?
Catherine Lundoff, mod.; Paula L. Fleming, Kathy Sullivan, Rebecca Marjesdatter
7:00-8:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Opening Ceremonies
A fine, old convention tradition. Meet the convention committee and the guests, and start the convention off with a bang.
8:00-9:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Inside Stargate SG-1
The secret military team, SG-1, was formed to explore recently discovered stargates, alien artifacts that provide gateways to other planets. Like so many good shows, what helped Stargate SG-1 was its awesome cast. Meet the talented actor who portrayed Lieutenant General George Hammond and hear stories from behind-the-scenes of U.S. television's longest-running science fiction series.
Presenter: Don S. Davis
8:00-10:00, Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Movie: Stupid Teenagers Must Die!
It's a classic tale. . . It's the 1980s and a group of high school kids are getting together to hold a séance in a haunted house off the old highway. All the typical 80s horror movie characters are there: the cool hero, the innocent girlfriend, the goth chick, the tough guy, the beautiful blonde girl, the shy guy in love with the beautiful blonde girl, a couple of lipstick lesbians and two big geeks. In true 80s horror movie fashion, weird things start happening around the house. . . people are dying preposterously bloody deaths, girls are getting naked for no apparent reason and people walk into pitch black rooms and say things like, "Is someone in here?" As the poor, hapless kids are sliced and diced, it's up to our hero to either lead them to safety or watch as the house is filled with blood and well, you know! R, 73 minutes
8:00-9:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Artistic Inspiration
Authors and artists discuss what inspires them to write or create. What sorts of things spontaneously inspire you? What things do you seek out when you need inspiration? We've all heard of writers' retreats; is it possible to force inspiration? What doesn't work to jog or instigate inspiration? What squelches your enthusiasm (big-picture general things, not specific tiny events or things)?
S.N. Arly, mod.; Eleanor Arnason, Walter H. Hunt, P.M.F. Johnson, Lyda Morehouse, Kathy Sullivan
9:00-10:00 p.m., Main Stage
Introduction to the World of Middle Eastern Dance
A short performance followed by an introductory class on the basic movements involved in Middle Eastern Dance (bellydance). No experience necessary.
Presenter: Badria
9:00-10:00 p.m., Ballroom Foyer (2nd Floor)
Friday Autograph Session: Don S. Davis
9:00 p.m., Art Show (Empire Room)
The MarsCon Artists' Reception
We are continuing this great tradition! All artists and fans of the Art Show are invited to join us for a lovely, relaxed evening with all the resident local artists who contribute to our Art Show. There will be no formal tour, just a chance to spend time perusing the show, enjoying the artwork and art-talk. This is a great opportunity for fans of science-fiction/fantasy art to meet some of the artists and for the artists to meet their most loyal patrons.
Art Show Director: Nora Leverson; Kristy Effinger, Lucia Johnson
9:00-10:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Conventions!
A panel on conventions...different types and how they are put together. How cons have changed in the past 25 years!
Presenters: Eric Larson, David E Romm, Ben Ellis, Rick Gellman
9:00-10:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
International Space Station Update
The International Space Station, the largest cooperative program in history, combines the resources of 16 nations in scientific research. Get the latest information on the program.
Presenters: Ben Huset, Minnesota Space Frontier Society
9:00-10:00 p.m., Masquerade Lounge (Room 310)
Judging 101/ Sitting in Judgment
Just how do masquerade/cosplay judges reach their decisions? What are some of the factors in their choices, and what can you do (or not do) to score extra points. Quiz judges and masquerade directors about how judges go about deciding stuff.
Presenters: Rae Lundquist, mod., previous and current masquerade/cosplay experienced judges
9:00-10:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Fiction Reading: Walter H. Hunt
9:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m., Krushenko's
Arcana Party
Hosted by this "Convention of the Dark Fantastic," to be held October 14-16 at the Best Western—Bandana Square, St Paul, with GOH George Clayton Johnson
10:00-11:00 p.m., Exec. Conference Room (2nd Floor)
UFO Encounters in Wisconsin and Minnesota
What are some of the UFO events occurring in Minnesota and Wisconsin? Join Craig Lang, hypnotherapist and Minnesota MUFON researcher/investigator for an exploration of the UFO and close encounter phenomenon in our own backyard.
Presenter: Craig R. Lang, MUFON
10:00-11:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
The Worst Sci Fi Ever!
This will be an open discussion about the worst science fiction/fantasy ever, including books, television series, films, all media, excluding the obvious (i.e., Star Wars prequels, etc…). Also, no genre wars. We are talking crap-tacular--badly written, badly acted, badly directed, unrealistic dialogue, unsympathetic characters, the SF that makes you personally cringe.
Presenters: Jessie Berg, Kevin Borchers, Mickie Erickson, Tom Erickson, Jennifer Steadman, Whitestar Phoenix
10:00 p.m.- Sat Midnight, Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Friday Dementia Concert Series
DJ Particle:DJ Particle: is, since 1994, the stage, club, and radio alias of Emi Briet, a radio show host, sometime disc jockey and recent novelty music artist.
Rob Balder: Rob Balder is a self-described "renaissance geek," who spreads his creative energies across the fields of comics, game design, small press publishing, writing, poetry, and filk.
Worm Quartet: Worm Quartet is a one man (Reverend Timothy F. Crist, A.K.A. -=ShoEboX=-) Comedy Synth Punk band.
The Gothsicles: Darker than darkwave. Colder than coldwave. So cold, it's frozen on a stick. The Gothsicles. Also known as "...the best gothic-industrial-nerdcore-comedy band in the multiverse..."
10:00-11:00 p.m., Masquerade Lounge (Room 310)
Masquerade 101
Pick up tips and hints on how to enter a costume contest.
Presenter: Rae Lundquist
10:00 p.m., Parties Floors (12th & 13th Floors)
Friday Night Party Judging
Parties Liaison: Nicky Luckes
10:00-Midnight, Blue Mars (Room 1306)
D.N. Angel
Daisuke Niwa begins to live a double life, literally, when he turns fourteen and the dashing master thief, Dark Mousy, begins to periodically possess him. To make matters worse, Dark tends to take over whenever Daisuke thinks about Risa Harada, a girl on whom he has a horrible crush. A complicated love triangle ensues when Risa falls head over heels for Dark the first time she sees him inhabiting Daisuke's body. PG
10:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars (Room 1340)
Friday Night Filking
Filking is a fanish tradition, active since the 1950s, when the earliest fans gathered in hotel room s for late-night singing sessions at the occasional science fiction convention. While filk music commonly has a science, SF or fantasy theme, filkers have been known to write filk songs about a variety of tangentially-related topics. Bring your voice. Bring your instrument if you have one. Bring your own lyrics, or grab a songbook and join in the singing.
Presenter: Rich Brown
11:00-Sat Midnight, Fuji (2nd Floor)
Dalek, Dalek, Truck
You think you want to build your own (life-sized) Dalek? Come to this panel and find out why not. (Just kidding) Local Dalek fans show you what goes into building a Dalek, where to get started with your Dalek plans, and how not to get exterminated by your own Dalek. If you want to find out what four hot wheels trucks, six dozen Christmas ornaments, and all-purpose Bondo have to do with building your own Dalek, this panel is for you. Even if you don't want to build your own Dalek, you can still come see what goes into one.
Presenters: DeadLegato & Nat W.G.
Sat Midnight-Early Morning, Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Friday Night Drum Jam
Sat Midnight-1:00 a.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Out of the gaming pit and into the sunlight: can we please stop embarrassing ourselves?
Geeks, nerds and gamers -- along with scifi fans, comic collectors and renboys -- have a terrible reputation for dress, comportment and social abilities. And it is all well deserved. Perhaps a few minutes spent on the social graces and a hard look at how the 'other' world views us would benefit all. If you don't think you need this panel -- please come!
Presenters: Cap'n Bligh, Nathan Lalum, David Walbridge, Anna Waltz
10:00 a.m.-Noon, 2nd Floor Hallway
Fan Faire
Mingle with representatives from other fan clubs and organizations, and learn what's out there in fandom. All fan organizations are welcome to table from 10am to Noon. Tables are first come, first served.
10:00-11:00 a.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Science Fiction & the Sword
The Twin Cities Budokan is a school of traditional Japanese swordsmanship. The school focuses on training in the classical samurai arts and specializes in the art of Kenjutsu. There are no prerequisites to kenjutsu training; the only thing that is needed is a desire to learn. If you have a desire to learn the art of the sword, check out our website or give us a call. We are happy to answer any questions you might have. We hope you enjoy our presentation at this year's MarsCon. Our website is: www.twincitiesbudokan.com
Presenter: Al Kilgore, Twin Cities Budokan
10:00-11:00 a.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Belly Dance: Beginner Veil Choreography
Short veil choreography to Turkey's hot pop star Tarkan's "Simarik" (the kiss-kiss song). Beginning middle eastern dance/veil experience recommended, but not necessary. There will be some veils available for use in class, but participants are encouraged to bring a veil (3 yard length of lightweight fabric) along for the class if possible. Bring extra veils if you have some to share.
Presenter: Badria
10:00-11:00 a.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Space Elevator Update
Basic presentation and update with Q&A. The idea of a Space Elevator has been around for over a hundred of years; however, the technology to build such a remarkable structure has not existed until now. Recent advances in carbon nanotube technology, robotics, and lasers now make the concept of the Space Elevator a viable engineering project.
Presenter: Frank A. Smith, LiftPort
10:00 a.m.-Noon, Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Mondo Collecto
Mondo Collecto is a thrilling documentary that boldly reveals the world of the Modern Collector. Produced by filmmaker R.P. Whalen and featuring Ted V. Mikels, Mondo Collecto is the result of a four-year project that presents some of the most unusual collectors and their collections that Whalen could find using a very minute budget. The end result is a fascinating, thrilling, and sometimes shocking documentary that will entertain you from beginning to end with all points in between.
Presenters: Raymond Whalen, Earl Luckes, Ben Ellis
10:00-11:00 a.m., Krushenko's
Panel: Eccentric Pluto
The astronomers have decided that Pluto is too eccentric—too little, too odd in its orbit—and also too ordinary (way too many if the dwarfs recently discovered start getting counted), to be a planet. They suggest a new category of dwarf planet for Pluto. A pity? A good idea? No difference? What Pluto fiction stands out, and does getting put out of date diminish such stories?
Ruth Berman, mod.; Paula L. Fleming, Walter H. Hunt, Kent Nebergall, MASF, MNSFS
10:00-11:00 a.m., Re(a)d Mars
Presentation: Heinlein's Rules for Writing
What can we learn about the techniques of writing from the Grandmaster? Using Robert A. Heinlein's "On the Writing of Speculative Fiction" essay as a starting point, what can we learn, deduce, and apply to ourselves as writers? What did Heinlein do about discipline, editors, tools, and characters? Come and find out.
David Walbridge, presenter
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Q&A: Patricia Tallman
When she portrayed "Lyta Alexander" in the Hugo Award-winning Sci-fi series Babylon 5, Patricia Tallman was the most powerful telepath in the universe. Other films include Sweet Justice, Benefit of the Doubt, Army of Darkness, and both Austin Powers films. TV shows include Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Runners and Dark Skies.
Presenter: Patricia Tallman
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Film Making
Discussion of the craft.
Presenters: Eric Larson, Mod., Tom Draeger, Matthew Dunn, David Kiefer, James Pickens, Tim Richardson, Brandon Springer, Ian Strandberg, Raymond Whalen
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Masquerade Lounge (Room 310)
Mask Making
Patrick Fischer will describe how he created his gargoyle mask.
Presenter: Patrick Fischer
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Krushenko's
Panel: Your Favorite Lovecraft? (That Fresh Shiny Cylinder...)
Which is your favorite story by H.P. Lovecraft (1890-1937), and why? Also discuss Lovecraft's evolution away from fantasy-horror to science fiction-horror.
Paula L. Fleming, mod.; Ed Rom, Ron Searby, Bryan Thao Worra, Brian K. Perry
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Writing: The Craft
Q&A with professional writers on questions of plot, world, character, etc.
Kelly McCullough, mod.; Eleanor Arnason, P.M.F. Johnson, Lyda Morehouse, Kathy Sullivan
Noon-1:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Q&A: Don S. Davis
Don S. Davis is a character actor, painter, designer, woodcarver, former theater professor, and was a Captain in the United States Army during the sixties. Don's television credits include his series regular role as General George Hammond in Stargate SG-1; and recurring roles in The X-Files, where he played father to Gillian Anderson's Agent Scully, and Twin Peaks, where he played Major Briggs. Don has guest starred in dozens of television series including The West Wing, NCIS, The Dead Zone, Northern Exposure, L.A. Law, Knots Landing, Twenty-One Jump Street, Wiseguy, and Macgyver.
Presenter: Don S. Davis
Noon-5:00 p.m.
USS Nokomis MarsCon Blood Drive
USS Nokomis is sponsoring the second annual USS Nokomis MarsCon Blood Drive in conjunction with the Red Cross. Sign up in the hotel lobby on March 3rd, 2007 from noon to 5pm.
Noon-1:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Most Distressing: Aging and Weathering Models and Props
A squeaky-clean finish is great for something that's factory-fresh. But show me a factory-fresh X-wing! And an heirloom bat'leth without a few nicks? Do'Ha'! Join the Model Citizen for some hands-on tips about aging and weathering using a variety of techniques. Bring a model or prop of your own to work on if you want.
Presenter: Roger Sorenson
Noon-1:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Orbital Commerce Project Update
So you want to go into space, but NASA won't take you, and you can't afford Virgin. Have you considered applying to train at the Orbital Commerce Project, the worlds first non-gov't funded training centre for sub-orbital pilots and payload specialist? Come and listen in as their Official Spokesperson updates us on developments at OCP.
Presenter: Hugh S. Gregory, Spaceflight Historian
Noon-1:00 p.m., Masquerade Lounge (Room 310)
Mask Making for Kids and Adults
Try your hand at making your own mask with materials provided in the Masquerade Lounge (a small donation will be asked to cover cost of materials).
Presenter: Mary Mac
Noon-2:00 p.m., Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Chrono Crusade
The year is 1928. Jazz is hot, bootleg liquor is king and the idle rich of a nation have discovered a horrifying new past-time: summoning demons! To combat this growing threat, a new order of Holy Warriors has arisen. This is the story of Sister Rosette, an elite Exorcist in the Order of Magdalene, whose soul has been bound by alchemy to that of the devil Chrono. Armed with Sacred ammo, they form an unstoppable team, ready to wage war at a moments notice... because when the gates of Hell are opened, someone's got to put the devils back! PG-13
Noon-1:00 p.m., Krushenko's
Panel: Horror's Correlation with Science Fiction and Fantasy
Horror, science fiction, and fantasy are highly popular genres. Why are they often pushed to the back of the bookstore while the film industry feasts on the genres?
S.D. Hintz, mod.; Karen Sylte, Brian K. Perry, Jason D. Wittman
Noon-1:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Round Robin Poetry Reading
P.M.F. Johnson, host, Rebecca Marjesdatter
1:00-2:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Mars Desert Research Station/ Analogue Mars
The Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) is one of four planned simulated Mars habitats maintained by the Mars Society. It is the second such research station to be built, after the completion of the Flashline Mars Arctic Research Station on Devon Island in the Arctic in 2000. The project's goals are to develop field tactics based on environmental constraints (ie, being required to work in spacesuits), to test habitat design features and tools, and to assess crew selection protocols. The crews usually consist of a mix of astronomers, physicists, biologists, geologists, engineers and the occasional journalist. Hear from veteran MDRS crew members about the experience.
Presenters: Hugh S. Gregory, Ben Huset, Kent Nebergall
1:00-2:00 p.m., Ballroom Foyer (2nd Floor)
Saturday Autograph Session: Don S. Davis, Gary Jones
1:00-2:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Panel about Nothing - 2nd Annual!
Come, chat, share!
Presenters: Katie Nelson, Nathan Lalum, Larry Andrle, Matt Brogmus, Brian Timm, Todd Coss
1:00-3:00 p.m., Masquerade Lounge (Room 310)
Becoming Elizabeth I
A combined wig/make-up/costume demo with Bill Hedrick and Elizabeth Sloan (and Rae Lundquist) where we will join forces to create Queen Elizabeth I in all her aged glory!
Presenters: Rae Lundquist, Elizabeth Sloan, Bill Hedrick
1:00-2:00 p.m., Krushenko's
Panel: Heinlein's Impact
2007 is the centennial of Robert A. Heinlein (1907-1988). What impact did Heinlein have on the development of science fiction since 1939, i.e. how did his work affect what other writers did, and what became popular? Did any one writer have an impact as great as he, and if so, who and why?
Eric M. Heideman, mod.; Walter H. Hunt, Ed Rom, David Walbridge
1:00-2:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Broad Universe Rapid Fire Readings
Writers (usually BU members) read short excerpts of their work.
Catherine Lundoff, host; Kathy Sullivan, S.N. Arly, Anna Waltz, Lyda Morehouse
1:30-2:30 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Live Bats!
Join local bat conservation enthusiast and advocate Stephanie Reynolds, and learn about these often misunderstood creatures of the night.
2:00-5:00 p.m., 2nd Floor Hallway
Autograph Sessions
Authors are invited to do signings en masse.
2:00-6:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Saturday Dementia Concert Series:
Hosted by Wyngarde, formerly of The Nick Atoms
Eric Coleman: From his hapless manhandling of a drum set in the mid 70's to nasally punk singer in the late 70's to pathetically trendy synth-pop maven in the 80's to a mostly failed attempt to ignore the entire 1990's, Eric has had the sort of career that would make most musicians hopelessly incontinent.
Carla Ulbrich: Carla Ulbrich is an American singer, songwriter, guitarist, and smart aleck from Clemson, South Carolina. - Concert rescheduled for Sunday
Possible Oscar: Bud Sharpe, former producer for The Nick Atoms, and the formidable Marshall Stanton, master of all stringed implements and the ancient art of Feng Shui.
Sudden Death: By combining hip hop and comedy, Sudden Death has become one of the most popular acts on the Dr. Demento Show.
The Great Luke Ski: "The great Luke Ski", otherwise known as Luke Sienkowski, writes, records and performs comedy music on a variety of pop culture subjects ranging from Lord of the Rings and Star Wars to Spider-Man and Keanu Reeves. Luke has enjoyed repeated success on the Dr. Demento Show.
(brief break for the next act to set up...)
Ookla the Mok: Our MarsCon 2007 Musical Guests of Honor, Ookla the Mok is Fandom's Own Rock Band. They've been playing at Science Fiction and Comic Book Conventions all over North America since 1994.
2:00-4:00 p.m., Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Movie
See the program book for details.
2:00-3:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Mutants: Are You on the List?
Will cover the latest on Heroes and other mutant favorites such as The X-Men.
Presenters: Kevin Borchers, Mickie Erickson, Christine LaBounty, Jennifer Steadman, Whitestar Phoenix
2:00-3:00 p.m., Krushenko's
Panel: J-Horror That Doesn't Suck
Truth to tell, Japan is becoming a leader in the production of innovative horror cinema. What are some of your favorites, and why?
Bryan Thao Worra, mod.; S.D. Hintz, Catherine Lundoff
2:00-3:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Writing and Self Promotion
Is self promotion a necessary evil or a waste of time. Professional writers talk (read argue) about the pros and cons of self promotion.
Kelly McCullough, mod.; Eleanor Arnason, Walter H. Hunt, Lyda Morehouse, Kathy Sullivan, Rob Balder
3:00-6:00 p.m. Elysium Sanctum (Con Suite/13th Floor)
Admiralty Tea Party
The IKV Warhammer and the U.S.S. Behr'ak would like to invite you to an Admiralty Tea Party in celebration of the merger of the two clubs. Hot tea and cookies will be served. Please come and meet our group, see what we are all about, and spend a cozy time discussing one of our favorite subjects-Star Trek.
Hosts: Theresa Miller, IKV Warhammer, U.S.S. Behr'ak
3:00-4:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Wildlife: Invertebrates and Vertebrates
The Girard family, Beth, Becky and Jessie, present live animal programs for several organizations including the Wildlife Science Center (Forest Lake, MN) and Eco Education (St. Paul, MN). They will be on hand to answer those overwhelming questions you may have regarding the vertebrate classes. Invertebrates and animals from each of the five major vertebrate classes will be presented.
Presenters: Beth Girard, Becky Girard, Jessie Girard
3:00-4:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Science Fiction's Solution to Global Warming
Presenters: David Buth, Minnesota Space Frontier Society
3:00-4:00 p.m., Krushenko's
Panel: Movie Westerns
The first movie Western debuted in 1903, the year after the first SF film. We'll look at oater cinema's history, stars, directors, themes, and enduring appeal. Minnesota is where the West begins. Are we ready for our own Western convention?
Eric M. Heideman, mod.; David Christenson
3:00-4:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Critique Groups—Functional and Dysfunctional
What are the benefits of being in a critique group? How about the disadvantages? When has a group become dysfunctional? Can a dysfunctional group be salvaged, and if so, how?
S.N. Arly, mod.; Paula L. Fleming, Kelly McCullough, Karen Sylte
4:00-5:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Star Wars: Was it good or bad for science fiction
What has the effect of Star Wars been on science fiction? Yes, it attracted new fans to the genre. Have those fans helped or hurt science fiction. And is Star Wars really science fiction at all?
Presenters: Nathan Lalum, Eric Larson, Kelly McCullough, Ben Ellis, Todd Coss
4:00-5:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Meet the Rocketman
Presenter: Ky Michaelson
http://www.the-rocketman.com/
4:00-6:00 p.m., Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Dork of the Rings
The insidious Dork-Mart Corporation threatens to take over Muddle-Earth with its endless megastore chains. Only the throbbit, Frudo Buggins, possesses the One Ring of Circular Credit and he must journey to Lardor and close down Lord Mauron's bank account. Pursued by Nosedrools and Sporks, he is joined by his plump companion Ham, Randolf the Wizard, Gimpi the Dweeb, Legoblocks the Elfis, Arrogant the Rangler, Princess Femowen, and the annoying creature Scrottum.
Presenters: David Kiefer, James Pickens, Tim Richardson, Ian Strandberg
4:00-5:00 p.m., Krushenko's
Discussion: The Works of Eleanor Arnason
Share your thoughts and/or come learn about the writings of our Author GOH.
Eric M. Heideman, mod.; Eleanor Arnason. Sponsored by Second Foundation, a speculative fiction book-discussion group that has met regularly since 1983.
4:00-5:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Reading/Autographing: S.D. Hintz
S.D. Hints reads from and autographs his new novel, The Offering.
5:00-6:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Web Comics
Come and share your hidden gems. Convert your neighbors.
Presenters: Mickie Erickson, Jennifer Steadman, Whitestar Phoenix, Rob Balder
5:00-6:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
MDRS & FMARS Engineering
An overview of Engineering and general operations at the Mars Society's Mars Desert Research Station and the Flashline Mars Arctic Research Station. Some of the topics to be discussed are the various refit operations, including the upcoming FMARS refit and four month crew operation. Also included will be topics as the nature of analog Mars (and general space) operations. A slide show of various MDRS and FMARS pictures, mostly refit pictures, will be included in the presentation. There will be a generous Question and Answer time.
Presenter: Hugh S. Gregory (subbing for Paul Graham)
5:00-6:00 p.m., Krushenko's
Eleanor Arnason Autographs
5:00-6:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Fight Scenes in Speculative Fiction
Fight scenes are an almost necessary element in SF/F (both in film and print media). Why are these included? What do they bring to the story? What is the difference between real fights and good film and literary fights (what doesn't play out as well on film or on paper)? What elements does a writer need to include and be able to do well, and what should a writer avoid? How does this differ from what can be done in film? What can go wrong with fight scenes?
S.N. Arly, mod.; Paula L. Fleming, Walter H. Hunt, P.M.F. Johnson
6:00-7:00 p.m., Hotel Parking Ramp Top Floor
Total Eclipse of the Moon
This is a weather permitting event.
6:00-7:30 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Art Auction
Bid on a masterpiece!
Art Show Directors: Nora Leverson, Kristy Effinger; Lucia Johnson
6:00-7:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Creative Trance Workshop
A workshop for the creative imagination: A moment of progressive relaxation takes you into your deepest and most creative inner mind. Take some time to enjoy some imaginal scenery. Ask a question. Invent an idea. ...or simply travel into the amazing universe of the imagination.
Presenter: Craig R. Lang, MUFON
6:00-8:00 p.m., Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Anime: Full Metal Alchemist
The attempt by two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Eldric, to resurrect their dead mother through the power of alchemy has played havoc with their bodies. Edward is now lacking two limbs, and Alphonse has fared even worse, his spirit trapped in an ancient suit of armor. They now wander the world in search of the Philosopher's Stone, hoping that its alchemical power might restore them. A smash hit in Japan, this anime blends humor, action, and drama in an engaging mix. PG, 105 minutes
6:00-7:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Heinlein's People
Relationships in Heinlein's books and his life (especially Virginia Heinlein). RAH lists his qualities for a good human, and also incorporates these qualities into his heroes. Did he, himself, reach these lofty goals? Can anyone? Does Angelina Jolie count?
David Walbridge, mod.; Ed Rom
7:00-8:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: The Death of the Vampire
Has romantic vampire fiction "jumped the shark?" Is this sub-genre on its way out? If it is, what finally killed the vampire?
Karen Sylte, mod.; Tate Hallaway, Jason D. Wittman
8:00-10:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Masquerade & Half-time Show
A grand costume contest with half-time entertainment by University of Minnesota Parapara dancers and prizes!
9:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m., Krushenko's
Diversicon Party
Hosted by this multicultural, multimedia convention to be held August 3-5 in the Holiday Inn Express International Airport—Mall of America (right here!), with GOH Andrea Hairston and Special Guests Christopher Jones and Melissa S. Kaercher; co-sponsored this year by ConSume Relaxacon 7.
10:00-10:30 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Zaharat: Belly Dancing
Dazzling performance by local belly dancing troupe Zaharat.
10:00-11:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
LINDA: The Panel
Always scouting for a blue box? When did you first hear about the Doctor? Got an urge to listen to some ELO? Join the London Investigation 'n Detective Agency to share your favorite Doctor Who fannish experiences! Fans of classic and new Who of all ages are welcome. Don't worry, no attendees will be absorbed into the being of the panelists during this discussion.
Presenters: Revolutionary Jo, DeadLegato, Michael Lee, Ben Ellis
10:00-11:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Cloud Experiments
Science fun with the fluffy whites.
Presenter: Roger Carlson
10:00 p.m., Parties Floors (12th & 13th Floors)
Saturday Night Party Judging
Parties Liaison: Nicky Luckes
10:00- Sun Midnight, Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Case Closed: The Time-Bombed Skyscraper
The city is in the grip of a crazed bomber and nobody is safe as a crushing wave of terror washes over the innocent citizens. Planes, trains, and massive towers all threaten to light up the night sky; the sick whims of a brutal lunatic played out in sudden balls of fire. Conan Edogawa finds himself in a desperate race against the clock, an explosive game of cat and mouse with a deviant madman...and every second counts. Can he unravel the maniacal malcontent's schemes before the next timer reaches zero? You never know when your time might come. PG, 95 minutes
10:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars (Room 1340)
Saturday Night Filking
Filking is a fanish tradition, active since the 1950s, when the earliest fans gathered in hotel room s for late-night singing sessions at the occasional science fiction convention. While filk music commonly has a science, SF or fantasy theme, filkers have been known to write filk songs about a variety of tangentially-related topics. Bring your voice. Bring your instrument if you have one. Bring your own lyrics, or grab a songbook and join in the singing.
Host: Rich Brown
11:00p.m.- Sun Midnight, Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Possum Willy Concert
Hear the band that supersedes all boundaries of Musical Thought. A band that has embraced and catapulted all sonic frequency aspects of emotion, from happy to whimsical, from pensive to aggressive. Sadness and Bitterness and every other trait of human being emotion have been absorbed into the Psyche of the Gods of Possum Willy.
11:00 p.m.- Sun, Midnight Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Guns of Sci-Fi
Guns, blasters and other weapons of sci-fi & action...what's new? What's old? What do we want to see, and what are we tired of?
Presenters: Erik D. Pakieser, Nathan Lalum, Blair Keith, Bryan Thao Worra
Sun Midnight-Early Morning, Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Saturday Night Drum Jam
Sun Midnight-1:00 a.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Punnel
Phun with Puns!
Host: Brian LaBounty
Sun Midnight, Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Nerdz
From crazed customers to lesbians and lightsabers, they do it all. Oh, and they might even fix a computer here and there. Join Jeremiah, Izac and the rest of the crew of your favorite computer repair shop, Nerdz.
Presenters: Tom Draeger, Paul Moreau, Zac Petrich, Zach Smith, Brandon Springer
10:00-11:00 a.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Japanese Swordplay
Mr.Wolfe trains and teaches with the Minneapolis GOJU-KAI Karate School held at Pershing Park in South Minneapolis. Bob will demonstrate sword techniques from IAI-DO and empty hand techniques from GO-JU RYU.
Presenter: Bob Wolfe
10:00-11:00 a.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Meet the Exec: MarsCon 2008
Hear about our evil plans for MarsCon 2008... the planned Guests of Honor, the theme, the horror! This will be our 10th anniversary convention, and it will be a leap year con. (February 29-March 2, 2008) Brain storm with us, register and then give in to your uncontrollable urge to sign up!
Presenters: Nicky Luckes, Jamie Huddle, Fiona Eustathiades
10:00-11:00 a.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Free/Libre/Open Source Software for Fan Films
So you want to make a movie, little fan? How's your budget? Pro post-production software can cost a bundle. Or you can use FLOSS. What's out there? Will it do what you want?
Presenters: Rich Brown, Bryan Thao Worra
10:00 a.m. - Noon, Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Full Metal Panic
On the surface, Kaname Chidori appears to be a normal, popular high school student. The problem is, she doesn't realize just how popular she is. Unbeknownst to her, a group of terrorists believe she possesses the special powers of "the Whispered," and they're out to kidnap her. Enter Sousuke Sagara, a young, hotshot agent from the stealth anti-terrorist organization Mithril. Will he be able to protect Kaname without her finding out what's really going on? Or will he just drive her crazy as he tries to fit in as her awkward, gung-ho, war-crazed classmate?
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Beyond Babylon 5: Patricia Tallman
Equally important to Patricia Tallman are her roles of wife--she is married to Jeffrey Willerth (Kosh, Babylon 5)--and mother (to 6-year-old Julian). Dedicated Patricia Tallman fans make a hobby of trying to spot her in her many stunt performances. An extremely athletic and fearless member of the Stunt Woman's Association of America, Pat has tumbled, slid and taken punches for the likes of Laura Dern (in Jurassic Park), Gates McFadden (in Star Trek: Generations), Geena Davis (in The Long Kiss Goodnight) and Hudson Leick (in Chill Factor).
Presenter: Patricia Tallman
11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Masquerade Lounge (Room 310)
Dolphie (Costumed Doll) Display and Contest
The contest starts at 11am, with the winners announced at 1:30pm.
Presenter: Elizabeth Sloan
11:00-Noon, Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Yet Another Robot Panel
Real World Robot Technology
Presenters: Richard Caylor, William Crolley, Robert Odegard - Sponsored by the Twin Cities Robotics Club
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Fuji (2nd Floor)
The State of the Animation
What's going on in animation. Will discuss both technology as well as what’s out there, what is coming, and what might be changing.
Presenters: Jennifer Steadman, Whitestar Phoenix
11:00 a.m.-Noon, Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Is There Anything New Under the Sun?
We'll talk about whether or not the science fiction of today reflects original ideas, or just new spins on concepts of the past. Are all the new ideas gone, or can fans expect that the best heroes, villains, and strange worlds are yet to come?
Eleanor Arnason, mod.; Lyda Morehouse, Walter H. Hunt
Noon-1:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Beyond the Stargate: Don S. Davis
Don began working in the film industry while teaching at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada in the early 1980s. He left teaching to pursue acting fulltime in 1987. Don has appeared in numerous feature films including Alaska, A League of Their Own, Needful Things, Look Who's Talking, Con Air, and Best of Show. He has had feature roles in over thirty made for television movies including In Cold Blood, The Ranger, The Cook and The Hole in the Sky, Columbo: A Bird in Hand, and the mini-series Atomic Train.
Presenter: Don S. Davis
Noon-1:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Charity Auction: Items on Display
Noon-1:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Anime that Doesn't Suck
Where am I? Who are you people? Nani o shimasu ka? WAKARANAAAAAAAAI! You want to join this crazy anime fandom, but where to get started? 10,000 titles, what's good? Get some friendly advice for getting into anime beyond what's on Cartoon Network.
Presenters: Revolutionary Jo & DeadLegato, Anna Waltz, Rebecca Marjesdatter
Noon-2:00 p.m., Blue Mars (Room 1306)
The Dork of the Rings
The insidious Dork-Mart Corporation threatens to take over Muddle-Earth with its endless megastore chains. Only the throbbit, Frudo Buggins possesses the One Ring of Circular Credit and he must journey to Lardor and close down Lord Mauron's bank account. Pursued by Nosedrools and Sporks, he is joined by his plump companion Ham, Randolf the Wizard, Gimpi the Dweeb, Legoblocks the Elfis, Arrogant the Rangler, Princess Femowen, and the annoying creature Scrottum.
Presenters: David Kiefer, James Pickens, Tim Richardson, Ian Strandberg
Noon-1:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Reading: Eleanor Arnason
Our Author GOH reads from her fiction and poetry.
1:00-2:00 p.m. , Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Concert Series:
Beth Kinderman: Beth is a singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist from Minneapolis.
Art Paul Schlosser: Art has been a street musician and busker as well as an outsider artist on State Street in Madison, Wisconsin since 1986. He is best known for his song Have A Peanut Butter Sandwich which made the Funny 5 of the Dr Demento radio show 4 times in the year 2001.
1:00-2:00 p.m., Ballroom Foyer (2nd Floor)
Sunday Autograph Session: Don S. Davis, Gary Jones
1:00-4:00 p.m., Exec Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Charity Auction
Help us raise funds for two worthwhile causes by bidding for some incredible items, donated by fans like you. Proceeds will benefit the Gordy Dickson Memorial Scholarship Fund and the Fans' Educational Network for Science Fiction. Thank you for your generosity!
1:00-2:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
Private space exploration and the future of Mars missions
This will include a discussion of 4Frontiers.
Presenter: Hugh S. Gregory (subbing for Paul Graham)
1:00-2:00 p.m., Krushenko's Annex (Room 1331)
Panel: Time is Really Big...
Fun with time travel in fantasy and science fiction—Hitchhiker's Guide, Thursday Next, the Doctor, and a cast of dozens.
Catherine Lundoff, mod.; Kathy Sullivan
1:00-2:00 p.m., Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Cthulhu Overexposed? (AKA Slimy Tentacles are so 20th Century...)
Are Lovecraft's Elder Gods and Ancient Ones helped or harmed by their many appearances in popular culture and Cthulhu Mythos stories by other writers?
Bryan Thao Worra, mod.; Brian K. Perry, Jason D. Wittman
2:00-3:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Concert Series
Carrie Dahlby: Carrie has performed for MarsCon before in the role of Buffy in last year's Buffy the Musical, and she is prominently featured in Luke Ski's stage show in multiple roles, including the Princess Leia in Grease Wars.
Power Salad Concert: Power Salad has appeared many times on the national "Dr. Demento" radio show as well as other funny music shows around the country, and recently in Holland! They are the creators of such hits as My Cat Is Afraid of the Vacuum Cleaner.
2:00-4:00 p.m., Fuji (2nd Floor)
The Promises and Perils of E.T. Contact
What would E.T. contact mean to each of us? What are the ups and downs of meeting our neighbors? What can we expect and what could go wrong? Join Craig Lang, Hypnotherapist and Minnesota MUFON UFO encounter researcher, in an exploration of contact scenarios and their promises, perils and pitfalls.
Presenter: Craig R. Lang, MUFON
2:00-3:00 p.m., Masquerade Lounge (Room 310)
Costumers' Guild Meeting
This is the first meeting of the newly organizing Costumers' Guild. All con-goers are welcome, as is the public. (So if you know someone who might be interested, please invite them to the meeting.) No one will need a con badge to attend this meeting.
2:00 p.m., Blue Mars (Room 1306)
Fruits Basket
After her mother's death, Tohru Honda finds herself living with the Sohma family consisting of three cousins: Yuki the 'prince charming' of their high school, Kyo the hot headed, short tempered outcast, and Shigure the mischievous novelist, if not sometimes that of a perv. Tohru finds out the terrible Sohma secret... When a member is hugged by the opposite gender they turn into the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. As rivals clash and doors get smashed life at the Sohma house has changed completely!
2:00-3:00 p.m., Krushenko's Annex
Panel: Championing Adaptations
There have been a number of adaptations to film in the last few years. Source material has varied from comics to graphic novels, novels and short stories, television, video games, and even amusement park rides. There are some particular challenges when adapting from one medium to another, even in the related media (TV to film or short story to novel). What are some examples of well-done adaptations and why do these work while others fail or don't succeed quite as well? How do you defend what you feel to be an excellent adaptation in the face of the purist argument that it utterly failed to bring the story/spirit/world or characters to the big screen?
S.N. Arly, mod.; Anna Waltz, Rebecca Marjesdatter
2:00-3:00 p.m. , Re(a)d Mars
Panel: Starship Bloopers: Are we Living in Heinlein's Future?
Heinlein invented and predicted many things—some of them frighteningly accurate. Nuclear power, the water bed, personal ride-able transportation, kilts on men, a religious theocracy running the nation, and many more ideas. Where are we in his "Future History" timeline? His Starship Troopers lived in a dangerous world with enemies everywhere, they fought endless battles, and died with the best equipment for reasons they did not understand. Sound familiar? Was this 1959 novel his most accurate prediction?
David Walbridge, mod.; Bryan Thao Worra, Ed Rom
3:00-4:00 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Dementia Smackdown!
Our dementia artists join forces for some booty-stompin' block-rockin' dementia classics! Come on and finish off this year's MarsCon with a big demented bash!
3:00-4:00 p.m., Executive Conference Room (2nd Floor)
Cassini Update
Cassini-Huygens is a joint NASA/ESA/ASI unmanned space mission intended to study Saturn and its moons. Hear the latest.
Presenters: Craig Rostell, Minnesota Astronomical Society
3:00-4:00 p.m., Krushenko's Annex
Diversicon Meeting
Hear what's up with this local convention from the Chairs of Diversicon 15 an 16.
Rick Gellman, D15, Eric M. Heideman, D16, co-mods.
4:30-5:30 p.m., Main Stage (2nd Floor)
Closing Ceremonies
Say "farewell" to the guests & "thanks" to volunteers. Hear news about next year's convention plans, and do the big group sing.
7:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. , Krushenko's Annex
A Party for Readers and Viewers
Co-hosted by Tales of the Unanticipated, a serial fiction anthology, and Second Foundation, an SF book-
Discussion group (since 1983) whose members are also film buffs.
After Con Con Suite (Elysium Sanctum/13th Floor)
Dead Cow Party
Party 'til the cows come home.
MarsCon 2007
March 2-4, 2007
Holiday Inn Select
Bloomington, MN
If you're looking for the Marscon held in Williamsburg, Virginia click here.
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