BayCon 2009 Preliminary Schedule

MONDAY, MAY 25

This is primarily a panel for the fantasy writer (new or established) who does not have much real experience with armor. We'll cover the basic physics of metal armor as well as the practical issues that your characters will face. This panel will focus on the basics of chain and solid armor styles and feature both discussion and demonstration of helmets and bucklers. There will be a hands-on period at the end of the session to allow participants to get a real feel for the weight, cleaning, wearing, and movement issues inherent in armor.

With more local conventions and the rise in Internet fandom, has Westercon outlived its purpose? Or should we change the mission statement to better reflect the needs of modern fandom?

The Punisher and Rorshach are a far cry from Superman's dedication to truth and justice. Even Captain America has tarnished his shield in the name of expedience. And Wolverine, who never brings them back alive is still ragingly popular. Has the definition of "superhero" changed since the Golden Age of comics or has there always been a dark edge to our noble protectors?

Dragon opera. Treeant karaoke. And can a gryphon play the banjo? How might a species' physiology effect their musical styles?

With the shuttle fleet being retired and the replacements not yet built, there is a gap in our orbital launch capability. Is this a chance for private enterprise to supplant the public-funded approach? Should Virgin Galactic look to partner with UPS and move into cargo transport? Or will unmanned vehicles take over all but the most crew-essential launches?

Join other current and retired members of the military to talk about your experiences.

If you own a computer you probably have more digital video editing power at your fingertips than has ever been subject to the hands of Ordinary People. We'll show you a little about editing and how we took all that crazy footage down and made it into a movie. And then, we SCREEN THE MOVIE. You tell us if it makes some kind of sense.

A panel for the fantasy or aspiring fantasy writer who does not have much experience with melee (hand held) weapons. This panel will cover the basic physics of melee weapons, from daggers to six and half foot killing swords. We'll also discuss some of the practical issues your heroine/hero will face, such as size and space requirements, how and why to clean their weapons, and the mechanics of lugging around those large chunks of steel. There will be a hands-on demonstration section at the end of the panel.

The Atlantis orbiter just returned from the final mission to maintain the Hubble Space Telescope. In the nearly two decades since the Hubble was launched, has the return been worth the investment? Is the idea of a space-based telescope dead? What are we likely to see advanced as replacements?

The world is littered with Lost Cities and Floating Islands, both real and fictional. The tales of how they were lost and later found are as intriguing as anything that Spielberg directed for the screen.

There are many familiar faces missing this year. Join us for an opportunity to reminisce in a supportive environment.

Dorothy had her ruby slippers, the Fourth Doctor had his giant scarf. Accessories can make or break a costume. Learn where to buy & how to make the right hat, the perfect purse, or a piece of jewelry to finish a SF/F or historical outfit.

Join other current and retired members of the military to talk about your experiences.

Pieces from the Art Show that have four bids go directly to auction. There's no set auction order, so make sure you're there early to get that piece you really wanted.

"Book N of an N+1 Series" How should you change your plot-arc if you're planning an eight-book series? What do you add to the hero's background to make him interesting for a five-volume mission? And how do you keep track of what the villain's girlfriend was wearing six books ago?

"There's no place like home." "I feel like I've fallen down the rabbit hole." Some fantasy and sci-fi classics have permeated popular culture to the point that people get the reference without even knowing the original source material. Is this a good thing or has popular culture finally jumped the shark?

So, what does "Hugo Winner" actually mean? Is a Hugo more important than a Ditmar? And who votes on these things, anyway? Join us and find out.

Can you break into the world of writing on your own or is expert guidance a requirement? Is the art market more hospitable to independents? And when (if ever) is an author big enough to go it alone? Our panel of professionals will field all of your questions without an hourly fee.

The origins of the BayCon Cryogenic Culinary Academy are shrouded in the mists of time. It is rumored that the founder still uses traditional Pyrocumulon recipes. We do know that there's always good ice cream at the Academy functions!

Join the Chairman and our Guests of Honor as we bid a tearful farewell to Pyrocumulon. Those with sharp ears may even pick up hints of next year's destination.

Let us know what you liked about BayCon 2009 and what you think we can improve for next year. This is also your last chance to buy memberships for BayCon 2010 at the special 2009 attendee price of only $45.