Diversicon 17 Activities

Flash Fiction Contest Returns!

The Flash Fiction Contest, introduced at Diversicon 16 by then-Guest of Honor Anne Frasier, returns to D17 with judge Guest of Honor Kay Kenyon.

Short stories up to 250 words (firm) on the convention theme "When the Impossible Has Been Eliminated . . ." Entries will be judged on the creative interpretation of the theme, the quality of the writing, and emotional/intellectual impact. Top prize is a cool certificate, the honor of winning, and the opportunity to read your work out loud at our Auction Halftime. Submit no later than 11:59 PM Central Time, July 14, 2009, to d17flash[ at ]gmail.com. Reading period begins June 15; you may submit at any time before the deadline but do not expect acknowledgment of your submission until the reading period begins. No entry fee, but open only to attending members of the convention. Writers of any experience level may submit. The Diversicon Chair and Programming Director and the SF Minnesota Board members are ineligible. Authors retain all rights to their stories.

Programming

We're compressing Programming into two tracks (about 40 items) to accommodate the smaller attendance expected due to the economy, but have no fear: our schedule will be ample and diverse, including Guest readings; our usual lively mix of panels and discussions on SF in literary media, film, TV, anime/manga, and graphic arts; speculative science; alternative lifestyles; and—especially—multicultural SF. We'll hold our 10th annual Yugo Awards Book Review for “Best SF Books That Should Have Been Written,” and screen a few films closely related to the live Program. Other topics will include the work of our Guests, both living and posthumous; a panel on “The Cinema of Sherlock Holmes;” opportunities for readings and storytelling; and the fabulous SF Minnesota Auction.

Your suggestions are welcome! Ideas received by May 1 will receive priority consideration. Contact Eric M. Heideman, Rebecca Marjesdatter, and/or Scott Lohman to submit ideas and/or to let Programming know of your interest in being on panels.

Want inspiration? Check out the Program Book from Diversicon 15: D15 Program Book.

Krushenko's

Inspired by a Manhattan bistro in Larry Niven’s Ringworld, this space for people who like to spend much of their time at SF conventions talking about SF started at the 1983 Minicon. It also materializes at MarsCon, OdysseyCon, WisCon, CONvergence, and Arcana (including a Diversicon party at most of these venues!). At Diversicon 17, it will be near Hospitality and will be partnered on Saturday by Krushenko's Annex. Stop by for a mix of films, readings, discussions, and parties hosted by SF groups. Stop by for a mix of films, readings, discussions, and parties hosted by SF groups.

Dealers' Room

Dealers get our lowest adult membership rate ($25 per person); tables are $15 for the first table, $10 for the second, if available. Contact Scott.

Art Show

Attending Artists will get our lowest adult membership rate ($25) in return for volunteering for an hour on Saturday to hang out and talk with other D17 members about their work. The Attending Artists’ rate is $1 per bid sheet (per piece). Walk-in art will be accepted from a non-attending artist or their agent at the rate of $1.50 per bid sheet. No mail-in art will be accepted. Items that receive two or more Silent Auction bids will be included in the SF Minnesota Auction. Contact Eric. Diversicon and its representatives are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items in the Art Show.

Hospitality Suite

Hospitality veteran Sybil Smith will once again host a pleasant weekend of snacks and good conversation.

Parties!

We like parties! If you and/or your SF-related group are interested in hosting a party at D17, contact Hotel Liaison Eric.