Ravencon 2015 @ DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Richmond, 1021 Koger Center Boulevard, North Chesterfield, Virginia

Timetable | Tags | People

Saturday

All | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | By Time | By Name

00:00

Late Night Dance Party with DJ Drae!

DJ Drae
Venues: Ballroom E, Ballroom F
Tag: Music
Ends: 01:00

DJ Drae will get you dancing with his unique blend of 80s hits, 90s alternative, goth, industrial, and more. Requests are welcome.

09:00

Collaborative Writing

Lawrence Ellsworth, Harry Heckel, Steve White
Venue: Anna
Tag: Literature
Ends: 10:00

Panelists discuss some of the different approaches to collaborative writing, why you would want to write collaboratively, and how you write collaboratively without killing yourself (or your co-author).

Science of Cryptozoology

Robert Blaskiewicz, L. Jagi Lamplighter, Randy Richards
Venue: Ballroom C
Tag: Panels
Ends: 10:00

A scientific discussion of Bigfoot, yeti, chupacabras, Nessie, sea serpents, and other mysterious creatures.

Rise With the Machines: Robotics Demo

Lord of the Bricks 7039 , Midloantics 1541 / Midlothian HS , Synergy 975 / James River HS , Kelly Lockhart
Venue: Ballroom E
Tags:
Ends: 10:00

Wake up to the sights and sounds of our future overlords chugging, whizzing, and battling it out as local high school robotics clubs strut their mechanical stuff. Fun for all ages!

Twelve’s Debut

Doc Coleman, Darin Kennedy, Gail Z. Martin, Jennifer R. Povey, Devo Spice
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Panels
Ends: 10:00

A look at Peter Capaldi’s first season as the Doctor, his interpretation of the character, Clara and Danny, Missy and the rest—Which episodes did you love or hate, how well did Capaldi make the role his own, where do you think we’ll go from here?

Virginia is for Haunters

Scott Bergman, Arthur Brill, Mr. Scream Freak, Ryan Sligh, Chip Wells
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Panels
Ends: 10:00

Haunted Attractions are a staple during the Halloween season. For some reason Virginia has never had a huge haunted attraction following when compared to neighboring states. “Virginia is for Haunters” is a grass-roots campaign to grow haunting in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Come meet haunters from around the region and learn what it takes to create these events and the struggles and successes each one has faced.

Reading: Bud Sparhawk

Bud Sparhawk
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 10:00

Women and Geek Culture

Ellie Collins, Emily Lavin Leverett, Chiara Scuro
Venue: Bon Air
Tag: Panels
Ends: 10:00

A friendly discussion of some of the hurdles faced by women in geek culture (the “fake nerd girl” meme, body image and cosplaying, women in refrigerators, gaming communities, online gaming) and what we can do to become a more inclusive community.

Researching Your Costume: Historical, SF, Fantasy, or Steampunk

Saucy , Cailin Hammer, Heidi Hooper, Kristin Mehigan, Kirsten Vaughan
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Panels
Ends: 10:00

What’s the difference between Victorian and Edwardian clothing? A Tolkien wizard or one from J.K. Rowling? Star Trek: TOS and Star Trek: Voyager?

Character Design for Comics

Rachel Hixon, Monica Marier
Venue: York
Tag: Workshops
Ends: 10:00

Monica Marier has been designing Characters for over ten years for Animation and Comics. She’ll go over the basics of shapes, body-type, age, posture, which includes the turn-around sheet and the expression sheet. She’ll also address questions like “Where do I get costume ideas?” “What does my color pallet say about my character?” and “Should I go detailed or simplified?” Bring your sketchbook and pencils and let’s draw some characters!

10:00

Writing Dialogue

Lou Antonelli, Noah McBrayer Jones, Karen McCullough, Kate Paulk, Lawrence M. Schoen
Venue: Anna
Tag: Literature
Ends: 11:00

Panelists discuss writing convincing, interesting dialogue. What about accents, physical quirks, and differing vocabulary from character to character? How can you use physical beats and dialog tags to pace a conversation?

Why Editing Matters

Philippa Ballantine, John Gregory Betancourt, Emily Lavin Leverett, Michael A. Ventrella
Venue: Ballroom C
Tag: Literature
Ends: 11:00

Editors are the unsung heroes of the writing industry, and they sometimes get a bum wrap for asking the tough questions and getting the story ready for prime time. Why do editors have the reputation of “adversary” with some writers? What are your expectations for them? What is their job and how does it fit in with your job as a writer? What’s the difference between developmental and line edits? Why is editing so important?

How To (Not) Ruin Your Writing Career

J. T. Glover, Chris Kennedy, Gray Rinehart, Allen Steele, Jack Trammell
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Literature
Ends: 11:00

We live in a world where saying the wrong thing at the wrong time can severely damage your career at its inception. Especially with the internet, one misspoken phrase or comment taken out of context can gain you enemies, lose you fans and land you on a publisher’s black list. But don’t fret! It’s just as easy to avoid these pitfalls as it is to stumble into them. Panelists will talk about recognizing and avoiding such pitfalls.

Nuclear Power vs. Fossil Fuels

Jim Beall, Dr. Ben Davis, Stephen J. Simmons, Michael Z. Williamson
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Panels
Ends: 11:00

How do the potential (and rare) hazards of a Chernobyl or Fukushima balance against the known hazards of coal and oil?

Digital Tools for Making Art

Brianna Wu
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Art
Ends: 11:00

Our experts show you how to get the most out of creating artwork in a digital workspace.

Reading: David Walton

David Walton
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 11:00

Concert: Blibbering Humdingers

Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Music
Ends: 11:00

Medieval, Renaissance and SCA music with the Blibbering Humdingers.

SHIELD Undercover Training, Kid’s Programming

Venue: Cove
Tag: Kid's Programs
Ends: 12:00

New SHIELD agents will practice the art of disguise and engage in team-building exercises.

Signing: Travis I. Sivart

Travis I. Sivart
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 11:00

The Raven Society

Kristin Mehigan, Fiona Quinn
Venue: York
Tag: Literature
Ends: 11:00

The Raven Society is a semi-secret honorary society for students, faculty and alumni at UVA. Led by a member of the Raven Society, this presentation will cover Poe’s time as a student and his dorm room, which is still available for viewing at UVA, with a short slide show presentation and Q&A session. PLUS The Poe Toaster- A brief history of the masked “phantom” who visited Poe’s grave for decades. Followed by a short discussion.

11:00

New Releases from Perseid Press

Richard Groller, Michael A. Ventrella
Venue: Anna
Tag: Literature
Ends: 12:00

Come hear about this year’s upcoming releases from Perseid Publishing!

Troll Hunting 101

L. Jagi Lamplighter, Kelly Lockhart, Jennifer R. Povey, Xexilia Zajac
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Panels
Ends: 12:00

How to deal with online haters and cyber stalkers.

Tips for Aspiring Writers

Lou Antonelli, Ellie Collins, Paula S. Jordan
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Literature
Ends: 12:00

If you’re a new writer or someone who’s thinking about taking the plunge into the world of fiction, getting started can be a bit intimidating. Now’s your chance to learn some tricks of the trade from our panel of published authors. They’ll share tips and answer your questions about getting your writing career off the ground.

Frank R. Paul: A Retrospective

Frank Wu
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Art
Ends: 12:00

Frank R. Paul was the first great science fiction artist. Period. His covers for Amazing Stories were the first science-fictional images ever seen by Ray Bradbury, Arthur C. Clarke and Forrie Ackerman. So great was his stature that he was the only Guest of Honor at the first Worldcon, and he was the first man to ever make a living drawing spaceships. Come and see his marvelous robots, aliens and other wonders!

Dreams of Reality

E. L. Fortner
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Literature
Ends: 12:00

What was the concept behind the new book? What really brought about its conception and eventual synopsis and storyline? What idea’s and thought went into developing it and give it life? These questions and more will be answered about the upcoming book, “Dreams of Reality”

Book Launch: War of Shadows

Gail Z. Martin
Venue: Bon Air
Tag: Literature
Ends: 12:00

The end of the world… And cake! Celebrate the launch of War of Shadows, Book Three in The Ascendant Kingdoms Saga from Gail Z. Martin. Fun and prizes!

Geek Radio Daily

Flynstress , Saucy , Billy Flynn, Rich Sigfrit
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Podcasting
Ends: 12:00

Come to a taping of the award not-winning podcast of GRD’s Weekly Podcast. We will be discussing with the audience all the geeky goings-ons of RavenCon and we might just have a surprise or two lined up for you. It is a lot of fun and not to be missed.

Signing: Lawrence M. Schoen

Lawrence M. Schoen
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 12:00

Allen L. Wold’s Writers’ Workshop

R. S. Belcher, Jack McDevitt, Bud Sparhawk, Allen L. Wold
Venue: York
Tag: Literature
Ends: 13:00

Allen’s classic workshop. Writers will be given a brief exercise, on which the panel will comment, helping the writer understand what they have done well and where they can improve.
Limit 12 participants

Events Continuing at 11:00

SHIELD Undercover Training, Kid’s Programming From 10:00 until 12:00

12:00

You Did (Not) Attend this Panel in an Alternative Universe

Jim Beall, Doc Coleman, Stephen J. Simmons, David Walton
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 13:00

Many SF novels explore the idea of alternate universes, some very similar to our own, some very different.  Some views of alternate universes suggest that every choice we make in this universe (or, for that matter, every time a quantum probability wave resolves), the other choice is made in a parallel universe, branching out infinitely.  What are your favorite parallel universe stories or ideas?  What does the possibility that another you could be making an opposite choice do to the concept of morality?

Reading: Allen Steele

Allen Steele
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Reading
Ends: 13:00

Allen Steele reads from his latest work and answers questions from the audience.

Indie Publishing: The Economics of Self-Publishing

Stuart Jaffe, Chris Kennedy, Christopher Nuttall, Robert Sommers
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Literature
Ends: 13:00

Find out how much it really costs to self-publish.

Adding Mystery/Suspense To Your Writing (With A Quick Homage To Poe)

Mary Miley, Heather Weidner
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Literature
Ends: 13:00

Join mystery authors Mary Miley and Heather Weidner for a workshop about adding techniques of the mystery/thriller genres to your writing. Learn about conventions that date back to Poe, Doyle, and Christie; traditions; and writing techniques as we explore a brief history of the genre. Then join a discussion about tips for writers who want to get their work published.

Reading: Gray Rinehart

Gray Rinehart
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 13:00

The 10 Best Video Games of All Time

Chris Impink, Tee Morris, Genesis Moss, Lawrence Schick, Brianna Wu
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Panels
Ends: 13:00

In keeping with the “RavenCon is 10” theme, we attempt to make “the” definitive list of the top ten video games of all time. Audience participation is requested and encouraged.

Signing: Steve White

Steve White
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 13:00

Magic Tournament

Venue: Ballroom C
Tags:
Ends: 17:00

Events Continuing at 12:00

Allen L. Wold’s Writers’ Workshop From 11:00 until 13:00

13:00

It's Only a Flesh Wound! Realistic Injuries in SF and Fantasy

Chris A. Jackson, Stuart Jaffe, Darin Kennedy, Mike McPhail, Kate Paulk
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 14:00

Gruesome and gory injuries, what is deadly, what is not, and how far can your character go after he takes that bullet in the gut?

Signing: Author GOH Allen Steele

Allen Steele
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Signing
Ends: 14:00

Allen Steele will be signing books.

How Run a Successful Kickstarter Campaign

Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Rob Balder, Gail Z. Martin, Travis I. Sivart
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Panels
Ends: 14:00

Panelists will discuss successful Kickstarter campaigns and ideas about networking, partnerships, social media promotion, building a base of fans, setting goals, choosing swag items, stretch goals and so on.

How to Remember Anything!

Lawrence M. Schoen
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Panels
Ends: 14:00

Cognitive psychologist Lawrence M. Schoen will discuss some of the many different kinds of memory humans have, and then walk you through the underlying principles that make all these types work. He’ll also teach you a nifty little mnemonic device that will allow you to remember anything!

Reading: Randy Richards

Randy Richards
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 14:00

Author Randy Richards will be reading “The League of Founding Fathers,” from the upcoming book “Paul Revere: The Zombies are Coming!”

Book Launch: Eternity Concepts

Xexilia Zajac
Venue: Bon Air
Tag: Literature
Ends: 14:00

“All will be revealed in Time. . .with pizza!  Come meet author and
artist of Eternity Concepts and help celebrate it’s first ever book
release!  Fun, prizes, and pizza!”

Gallifrey Pirate Radio Live

Davey Beauchamp, Billy Flynn
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Podcasting
Ends: 14:00

Join us for a live taping of a Doctor Who podcast.

Signing: Lou Antonelli, Richard Groller

Lou Antonelli, Richard Groller
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 14:00

Ignite Your Worldbuilding

J. T. Glover
Venue: York
Tag: Literature
Ends: 15:00

How do you create memorable worlds? Come learn techniques that combine research, inspiration, and your personal experience. Participants will leave with a list of resources to inspire their creativity, whether they want to create engrossing stories or paintings with lived-in worlds. We’ll discuss the limits of worldbuilding, and signs that it’s time to join Worldbuilders Anonymous. Be prepared to talk with your fellow creators, and bring a notebook, computer, or other writing device.
Limit 20 participants

Events Continuing at 13:00

Magic Tournament From 12:00 until 17:00

14:00

Wildside Press

John Gregory Betancourt
Venue: Anna
Tag: Literature
Ends: 15:00

A look at Wildside Press’s unique place in the publishing field, a preview of upcoming releases, and free books/ebooks for the audience.

Frank Wu: Artist GOH

Frank Wu
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Art
Ends: 15:00

Frank Wu talks about his art and his career.

Why Science Fiction Matters

Stephen L. Antczak, Emily Lavin Leverett, Jack McDevitt, Jennifer R. Povey, David Walton
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Panels
Ends: 15:00

Science fiction has inspired careers, fostered new ideas, and given people hope for the future. All while being darned entertaining. Our guests tell us why SF matters to them.

Meet the 501st

Venue: Ballroom G
Tags:
Ends: 15:00

Garrison Tyranus of the 501st Legion, aka Vader’s Fist, comes to RavenCon for a return visit! Stop by and meet the ’troops!

A Comical Reading from "The Cleric’s Guide to Smiting"

Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 15:00

The brother-sister duo of Monica Marier and David Joria will read aloud from their best-selling fantasy book of jokes, japes, jests and insults. Be prepared for nonsense and silly voices.

Concert: White Plectrum

Keith Brinegar
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Music
Ends: 15:00

White Plectrum plays some of their classic filk songs, such as “The Ballad of Jones the Cat,” “Call of Cthulhu,” and “The Loveable Lament of the Dragon and the Lady.”

SHIELD Training: Laser Maze, Kid’s Programming

Venue: Cove
Tag: Kid's Programs
Ends: 16:00

New agents of SHIELD will be tracking Hydra and securing Artifacts of Power. (Kids will negotiate a maze of yarn.)

Signing: Nicole Givens Kurtz, Pamela K. Kinney

Pamela K. Kinney, Nicole Givens Kurtz
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 15:00

Events Continuing at 14:00

Ignite Your Worldbuilding From 13:00 until 15:00
Magic Tournament From 12:00 until 17:00

15:00

The Business End

Rob Balder, Karen McCullough, Ian Randal Strock, D. Alexander Ward
Venue: Anna
Tag: Literature
Ends: 16:00

A panel of professional wordsmiths discuss the not-so-sexy business of advances, royalties, contracts, finances, tax responsibilities and other necessary evils of making a writing career.

Author Guest of Honor Interview

Michael D. Pederson, Allen Steele
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Literature
Ends: 16:00

RavenCon Chair, Michael D. Pederson, interviews Author Guest of Honor Allen Steele.

How To Move

Jonah Knight
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Workshops
Ends: 16:00

Sore back? Breathing hard? This interactive workshop will help you create a movement plan (not an exercise plan) that will help you eliminate aches and pains, improve your health, and reduce your risk of illness.

Dr. Who Trivia

Davey Beauchamp, Billy Flynn
Venue: Ballroom G
Tags:
Ends: 16:00

Think you know the Doctor? Come test your skills!

Reading: Lawrence M. Schoen

Lawrence M. Schoen
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 16:00

A Day in the Life of a LARPer

Strange Aeons Productions , Owen Anderson
Venue: Bon Air
Tags:
Ends: 16:00

“Alone Unto the Sea,” a 3-day role playing event from Strange Aeons Productions. The game masters explain LARPing to newcomers and help start them off in the current game.

Getting Started in Podcasting

Alex Matsuo, Rich Sigfrit, Travis I. Sivart, Devo Spice
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Podcasting
Ends: 16:00

Signing: Stuart Jaffe

Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 16:00

Zombie Makeup Workshop

Mariah Johnson, Angela Pritchett
Venue: York
Tag: Costuming
Ends: 16:00

Come join special FX makeup artists Mariah and Angela as they show you how to make yourself into a zombie, just like the ones they did in the film Plan 9! In this workshop you will learn how to apply a prosthetic piece and paint it up so you look just like a zombie!

Cost $15 (includes prosthetic, adhesive, makeup and blood to make yourself into a zombie!).
Limit 15 participants
Ages 12 and up

Events Continuing at 15:00

SHIELD Training: Laser Maze, Kid’s Programming From 14:00 until 16:00
Magic Tournament From 12:00 until 17:00

16:00

Voices of Tomorrow

Michael Winslow
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 17:00

High school students discuss what about today’s science fiction and fantasy inspires them.

Inside The CW

Adam Brown, Ashly Pallister, C. Doug Sutton
Venue: Ballroom E
Tags:
Ends: 17:00

The staff of Richmond’s CW will tell you what to expect from some of their top shows (Flash, Arrow, iZombie, etc.) and explain the inner workings of television programming.

Becoming a Voice Actor

Doc Coleman, E. L. Fortner
Venue: Ballroom F
Tags:
Ends: 17:00

Do you find yourself doing a number of different character voices? Do you find yourself falling into these same characters and wanting to develop them? Do you like to tackle a challenge of something new that could lead to maybe a new career or just a hobby? Come out and find out what it takes to be a voice actor.

Baen Traveling Road Show

Kelly Lockhart, James Minz, Gray Rinehart, Steve White, Michael Z. Williamson
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Literature
Ends: 18:00

Come see what new releases Baen Books has coming out this year.

Reading: Stuart Jaffe

Stuart Jaffe
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 17:00

Broad Universe Rapid Fire Reading

Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Nicole Givens Kurtz, L. Jagi Lamplighter, Gail Z. Martin, KT Pinto, Jennifer R. Povey, Jean Marie Ward
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Reading
Ends: 17:00

Author’s from the Broad Universe will (quickly) share sections from as many works as possible.

Signing: David Walton

David Walton
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 17:00

How to Get Your Mom to Read Comics

Barb Fischer, Cailin Hammer, Emily Lavin Leverett, Jack Trammell
Venue: York
Tag: Panels
Ends: 17:00

Does your mom, or anybody else, for that matter, think comic books are not “real reading”? Maybe she just hasn’t found the right book. This panel offers tips, tricks, and titles to turn a detractor into not just an advocate, but another comic book reader.

Events Continuing at 16:00

Magic Tournament From 12:00 until 17:00

17:00

Reading: J.T. Glover

J. T. Glover
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 18:00

Fantastic Books Book Launch

Tom Purdom, Bud Sparhawk, Allen Steele, Ian Randal Strock
Venue: Bon Air
Tag: Literature
Ends: 18:00

Come celebrate with Fantastic Books the release of Allen Steele’s “Tales of Time and Space”, Bud Sparhawk’s “Distant Seas” and Tom Purdom’s “Romance on Four Worlds.”

Shooting a Movie Short on a Shoestring

E. L. Fortner, Kevin Kelleher, Genesis Moss, Frank Wu
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Panels
Ends: 18:00

You don’t need big bucks to make a good movie. Our experts tell you how.

Tinker's Trials Tournament and Kickstarter Launch Party

Michael Winslow, Scott Winslow
Venue: Cove
Tags:
Ends: 19:00

Michael Winslow has developed a new Steampunk card game that will launch it’s Kickstarter campaign on April 27. Come try out the game and see if you can win a pre-release copy.

Signing: Gail Z. Martin

Gail Z. Martin
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 18:00

If I Ran DC Comics

Flynstress , Stephen L. Antczak, R. S. Belcher, John C. Wright
Venue: York
Tag: Panels
Ends: 18:00

The last few years have been one bad move after another from DC Comics. The panelists (and then the audience) take their turns describing what they would do differently if they ran DC.

Events Continuing at 17:00

Baen Traveling Road Show From 16:00 until 18:00

18:00

RavenCon Masquerade

Wade Cutrell, Billy Flynn, Heidi Hooper, Angela Pritchett, Rich Sigfrit
Venues: Ballroom E, Ballroom F
Tags:
Ends: 20:00

Fan costumers show off their latest creations. Plus, a teaser from the first episode of The Messengers.

Successful Indie Publishing: Tricks and Traps

Chris Kennedy
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Literature
Ends: 19:00

This workshop will help attendees navigate the intricacies of independent publishing, showing them what to do and what things to avoid in order to become a successful self-published author.

Authors vs. Artists Pictionary

Danny Birt
Venue: Chesterfield
Tags:
Ends: 19:00

Fun for the guests and fun for the audience. All are welcome to attend and participate.

Ten Real Poe Mysteries

Chris Semtner
Venue: York
Tag: Literature
Ends: 19:00

Richmond’s resident Poe expert, Chris Semtner, breaks down his top 10 favorite Edgar Allan Poe real-life mysteries.

Events Continuing at 18:00

Tinker's Trials Tournament and Kickstarter Launch Party From 17:00 until 19:00

19:00

Launch Party: Blood Savages

D. Alexander Ward
Venue: Bon Air
Tag: Literature
Ends: 20:00

Fast cars, trash talk, beastly vampires, and unlikely heroes. Author D. Alexander Ward celebrates the release of his new action horror novel from Necro Publications, Blood Savages. Join us for cupcakes, brownies, refreshments, fun and prizes!

Get Off My Lawn: Anime Discussion for the Over 30s

Rachel Hixon, Chris Impink, David Joria, Monica Marier
Venue: Chesterfield
Tags:
Ends: 20:00

Do you remember the glory days of your college anime club and Toonami after school? Bring your rocking chairs, and bask in the tales about Ranma ½, Cowboy Bebop, Voltron, Gatchaman, and other golden oldies. Perfect time to share your battle scars earned in the Sub/Dub War.

The State of Nutrition

Jonah Knight
Venue: Cove
Tags:
Ends: 20:00

The “common wisdom” of what we should be eating has changing drastically over the last ten years. Come find out what foods will help you improve your health and energy while reducing your risk of disease without “dieting.”

Weird Westerns

Danielle Ackley-McPhail, R. S. Belcher, Doc Coleman, Nicole Givens Kurtz, Jean Marie Ward
Venue: York
Tag: Literature
Ends: 20:00

What is it about the West that draws upon speculative fiction writers? Firefly, The Dark Tower, Cowboy Bebop, Trigun, and The Wild Wild West, film, television, anime and commercial fiction use the west as a setting and place for magic to happen. Why do we love this sub-genre? Where is it going next?

Events Continuing at 19:00

RavenCon Masquerade From 18:00 until 20:00

20:00

Beyond Xena and Leia

Nicole Givens Kurtz, L. Jagi Lamplighter, Gail Z. Martin, Travis I. Sivart
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 21:00

Panelists will discuss examples of women of various ages and abilities found in different media. The focus will be on female characters of all ages and shapes, able and disabled, rich and poor.

Celebrating 25 Years of Flood

Danny Birt, Devo Spice
Venues: Ballroom E, Ballroom F
Tag: Music
Ends: 21:00

They Might Be Giants’ 1990 album Flood is a landmark in early Geek Culture. RavenCon’s music guests join together to pay tribute to this album. Followed by an all-in filk jam with Blibbering Humdingers, Paradox Machine, and White Plectrum.

Charity Auction

Actin' Foolish Improv Group , Bob Snare
Venue: Ballroom G
Tags:
Ends: 22:00

We’re auctioning off some REALLY cool stuff to raise money for the Richmond Animal League (RAL)

Reading: KT Pinto

KT Pinto
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 21:00

KT Pinto reads from her adult fiction.
Ages 18 and up.

The Business of Art: How Do You Make a Living as an Artist?

Robert Quill, Frank Wu
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Art
Ends: 21:00

How do you actually make a living doing art? It’s hard to make a living doing art, and even harder in a rough economy. How do you pay the rent? And what, if anything, is health insurance? We’ll talk about the hard realities, and how you can survive as an artist.

Writing Critical Hits

Harry Heckel, Chris A. Jackson, Mike McPhail, Michael A. Ventrella
Venue: Cove
Tags:
Ends: 21:00

Writing RPG tie in fiction without letting the reader hear the dice roll. This panel can also go into what to expect from RPG publishers as far as what you can and can’t do in their worlds.

Star Wars: Not the Tropes You’re Looking For

Darin Kennedy, Genesis Moss, Stephen J. Simmons, John C. Wright
Venue: York
Tag: Panels
Ends: 21:00

A mystic warrior and his young apprentice undertake a quest to dethrone an evil emperor. Our panelists make a case as to why Star Wars is more fantasy than science fiction.

21:00

Plotting and Pacing a Short Story

Lou Antonelli, Warren Lapine, Kristin Mehigan, Tony Ruggiero
Venue: Anna
Tag: Literature
Ends: 22:00

Our panelists discussed the hows and whys of short stories on Friday. Today they delve deeper into the short story writing techniques, focusing on the plotting of short stories and developing the pacing of short stories.

Concert: Danny Birt

Danny Birt
Venues: Ballroom E, Ballroom F
Tag: Music
Ends: 22:00

Author/filker Danny Birt entertains the crowd with his warped musical offerings.

Reading: Gail Z. Martin

Gail Z. Martin
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 22:00

Supernatural, the TV Show

Wade Cutrell, Pamela K. Kinney
Venue: Bon Air
Tags:
Ends: 22:00

Panelists will discuss the twists the show puts on actual lore (vampires, werewolves, ghosts, mythical creatures, Greek gods, etc.) and how it differs or compares to other popular TV shows, movies, and books.

12th and 13th Century Historical Costuming

Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Costuming
Ends: 22:00

Writing a piece set in “Jolly Olde England”? Have a desire to nit-pick Robin Hood movies? Working on your Eleanor of Aquitaine or Richard the Lionheart cosplay? Let’s learn about Anglo-Norman fashion, clothing and accessories – from underwear to headgear and everything in between. We’ll play some dress ups too and have some medieval show and tell!  In addition to being an international wizard-rock icon :-) , Kirsten Humdinger has made a life-long study of medieval clothing from this period, and is recognized in the SCA as a Mistress of the Laurel for her research and efforts. She has dressed hundreds of re-enactors, advised theatre productions, and had her work cited by many re-enact groups of the period.

Schmoozing 101

R. S. Belcher, Kevin Kelleher, KT Pinto, Ian Randal Strock
Venue: Cove
Tag: Panels
Ends: 22:00

How to network and make the most of a convention without coming off like a weasel.

Webcomics/Manga: How to Write a Story

Rob Balder, Barb Fischer, L. Jagi Lamplighter, Xexilia Zajac
Venue: York
Tag: Literature
Ends: 22:00

We’ll discuss basic story writing, pitfalls to avoid, common problems new writers have, and other issues when writing for a graphic medium.

Events Continuing at 21:00

Charity Auction From 20:00 until 22:00

22:00

The Villain's Journey

Emily Lavin Leverett, Kate Paulk, D. Alexander Ward, Jean Marie Ward
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 23:00

We all know about the Hero’s Journey. But is there a corresponding Villain’s Journey? Panelists will discuss the arc villains (or antagonists) can and should take through novels and other media.

Concert: Devo Spice

Devo Spice
Venues: Ballroom E, Ballroom F
Tag: Music
Ends: 23:00

Join Devo Spice for an hour of comedy-rap songs about technology, Doctor Who and whatever else he finds funny.

Reading: Jennifer R. Povey

Jennifer R. Povey
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 23:00

His Favorite Things

Rick Albritton, Butch Allen
Venue: Bon Air
Tags:
Ends: 23:00

RavenCon recently lost our Vice Chair, John Jones. In honor of John, we would like to spend an hour discussing some of his favorite things that never get their own panel. Our panelists will discuss DC’s Legion of Super-Heroes, Steve Perry’s Matador series, and the classic tv show Blake’s 7.

Ask A Scientist

Jim Beall, Robert Blaskiewicz, Dr. Ben Davis, Richard Groller, Darin Kennedy, Carrie Rose, Stephen J. Simmons, Frank Wu
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Literature
Ends: 23:00

RavenCon’s science guests answer science questions for aspiring writers in the audience.

No Longer Strangers in a Strange Land

JT , The Bruce , KT Pinto, Rich Sigfrit
Venue: York
Tag: Panels
Ends: 23:00

A discussion on nontraditional relationships, including LGBTQ, non-monogamy, and non-traditional family structures.
Ages 18 and up.

23:00

Want To See Something Really Scary?

Pamela K. Kinney, Nicole Givens Kurtz, Travis I. Sivart
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 23:59

Our panelists will discuss what you should be reading and watching. They will discuss writing horror stories for different media. What works and what doesn’t? Review trends in the horror genre. Join us for a panel discussion about anything horror.

Concert: Blibbering Humdingers

Venues: Ballroom E, Ballroom F
Tag: Music
Ends: 23:59

Wizard Rock with the Blibbering Humdingers. Ages 18 and up.

Naughty Custom Art and the People Who Love It

Robert Quill
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Art
Ends: 23:59

Robert Quill specializes in custom work for individual clients. Many of whom ask for rather saucy subjects and over his 20-year career, Mr. Quill has accrued a number of engaging stories regarding the fantasies he’s been asked to fulfill, ranging from the bizarre to the shocking… to the downright hilarious. Come hear the stories and see some of the artistic results. Ages 18 and up.

Reading: Darin Kennedy

Darin Kennedy
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 23:59

Representations of Gender in Graphic Literature

Ellie Collins, Cailin Hammer, Jennifer R. Povey
Venue: Bon Air
Tag: Panels
Ends: 23:59

A discussion of the representation and treatment of women in the comic industry.

The Eye Of Argon

Gail Z. Martin, Ian Randal Strock, Michael A. Ventrella
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Panels
Ends: 23:59

The worst science fiction story ever written gets a reading by our brave panel as they compete to go the longest without tripping over a misspelled word or laughing uncontrollably. Audience members are also encouraged to take a chance. Can you keep a straight face, especially when the panel begins acting out the story?

Babes in Toyland

JT , The Bruce , KT Pinto, Rich Sigfrit
Venue: York
Tag: Panels
Ends: 23:59

Most of us are used to keeping our toys mint in box, but not these toys.  Adults have a wide range of toys from stingy to thuddy, to vibratey and shocking. Ages 18 and up.

09:00

Laser Tag

Venue: Ballroom C
Tags:
Ends: 11:00

Yes, that’s right. Laser. Tag. The staff of LaserQuest will be at RavenCon with their gear to run special laser tag games. How cool is that?

Fan Knit-In

Monica Marier, Lesley Reuter, Xexilia Zajac
Venue: Ballroom G
Tag: Crafting
Ends: 11:00

Bring your fiber-projects and sit and chat with fellow geeks about your favorite movies, TV shows, books, and (of course) fiber-art projects.

10:00

Indie Publishing: Marketing Your Work

Chris Kennedy, Gail Z. Martin, Alex Matsuo, Fiona Quinn
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 11:00

Now that you have your work available, how do you draw attention to it and gather sales?

No Right Way To Write: Techniques for New Writers

Danielle Ackley-McPhail, Mary Miley, Lawrence M. Schoen, Robert Sommers, Allen Steele
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Literature
Ends: 11:00

There is no one correct way to write. One of the challenges for new writers is to find the way that works best for them. Some people require strict outlines. Others require only bullet points. And still others require nothing more than an idea and a few notes on a napkin. This panel is on writing techniques, from using outlines to writing organically. Learn the way to write that is right for you!

Armor 101

Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Costuming
Ends: 11:00

Garrison Tyranus of the 501st teach you the basics of making your own stormtrooper armor.

Reading: Tee Morris

Tee Morris
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 11:00

Buffy: Looking Back

Saucy , Barb Fischer, Jennifer R. Povey, Devo Spice
Venue: Bon Air
Tag: Panels
Ends: 11:00

Looking back at 18 years and how the characters and the writing have changed television.

Concert: Paradox Machine

Billy Flynn, Jenny Hendricks, Sean McLane, Alex Taylor
Venue: Chesterfield
Tag: Music
Ends: 11:00

Paradox Machine is Richmond VA’s newest, geekiest band and are the coolest thing since bowties.

Riding the National Security Coattails

Gray Rinehart, Stephen J. Simmons, Travis I. Sivart
Venue: Cove
Tag: Panels
Ends: 11:00

Much of US rocket technology originated as ballistic missile technology (including some from our captured German scientists). Even some commercial space launch capability derives from national security launch contracts. What national security needs can provide impetus for other space exploits, or for other technologies in general?

Signing: Angela Pritchett, Grig Larson

Grig Larson, Angela Pritchett
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 11:00

SHIELD Mission Assignments: Kid’s Programming

Venue: Hotel Lobby
Tag: Kid's Programs
Ends: 13:00

Children will meet in the in the main lobby to receive their undercover assignments for next year and to say farewell to their fellow agents.

Old is New Again: The Rebirth of Fairy Tales

Harry Heckel
Venue: York
Tag: Literature
Ends: 11:00

Author Harry Heckel talks about how fairy tales continue to resonate in our literature and the modern transformations of old stories.

Events Continuing at 10:00

Laser Tag From 09:00 until 11:00
Fan Knit-In From 09:00 until 11:00

11:00

Making Magic Work

Chris A. Jackson, Stuart Jaffe, Karen McCullough, John C. Wright
Venue: Anna
Tag: Panels
Ends: 12:00

How to make a magical system in your world work logically and realistically without making your wizards into Superman.

Extra Life: Play Games and Heal Kids

Amy Dickstein, Jillian Ryan
Venue: Ballroom C
Tag: Panels
Ends: 12:00

Extra Life is an annual 24-hour video/card/table top game marathon where the proceeds go to benefit the kids at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. The staff of Extra Life tell you how you can get involved.

Reading: Jack McDevitt

Jack McDevitt
Venue: Ballroom E
Tag: Reading
Ends: 12:00

Returning GOH Jack McDevitt reads from his latest work and answers questions from the audience.

Ancient Aliens: Stealing Credit for 10,000 Years

Robert Blaskiewicz, Nicole Givens Kurtz, Randy Richards, Michael A. Ventrella
Venue: Ballroom F
Tag: Panels
Ends: 12:00

If ancient aliens exist, does this mean humanity is not responsible for inventing anything? A discussion of the likelihood and alleged evidence for ancient alien visitations.

Making Videos for YouTube

Genesis Moss
Venue: Ballroom G
Tags:
Ends: 13:00

YouTube veteran Genesis Moss discusses how to make entertaining videos for YouTube on any budget, passes on hard won knowledge about the mistakes to avoid, and includes tips to really make your videos stand out.

Reading: Philippa Ballantine

Philippa Ballantine
Venue: Board Room
Tag: Reading
Ends: 12:00

Costuming with Disabilities

Heidi Hooper, Pamela K. Kinney, Jack Trammell
Venue: Bon Air
Tags: Costuming, Panels
Ends: 12:00

Panelists will discuss some of the problems and potential solutions for cosplay for people with disabilities and people with medical devices

Allen L. Wold’s Writing Workshop, Part 2

Allen L. Wold
Venue: Cove
Tag: Literature
Ends: 12:00

Participants of Part 1 return to share their revisions from the previous workshop. Only those that have attended Part 1 may attend.

Signing: Lawrence Ellsworth/Lawrence Schick

Lawrence Ellsworth, Lawrence Schick
Venue: Dealer's Room
Tag: Signing
Ends: 12:00

The Artists' Role as a Storyteller:

Rob Balder, Chris Impink, Kevin Kelleher, Mike McPhail
Venue: York
Tag: Art
Ends: 12:00

This panel would discuss the visual aspects of storytelling. Storytelling in comic books is not just the word balloons and captions we read, but images created by the artists to help clearly communicate the story in the most entertaining way.

Events Continuing at 11:00

SHIELD Mission Assignments: Kid’s Programming From 10:00 until 13:00