Speculations Reading Series!

We've updated the Speculations reading series info -- three terrific authors will read in March, April, and June at Dreamhaven Books (2301 E. 38th Street, Minneapolis). Check it out at http://www.diversicon.org/SFMinnesota.html or go to http://www.diversicon.org/ and click on the blue SF Minnesota logo in the lower left.

This seems like a good time to note that a key contributor to SF Minnesota, Intermedia Arts, has encountered a challenging funding environment and is no longer able to sponsor the Speculations reading series. (Read here for details.) Though we are continuing the series on our own, the lack of sponsorship means a $750 gap in our annual budget. We are a small organization with an annual budget of around $5,000. Thus, we are facing about a 15 percent shortfall. We're also committed to keeping the con as accessible as possible; thus, we are loathe to raise our membership rates.

We know that this is a tight year for everybody -- the economy is a dark and scary place right now. Nonetheless, we ask that if having a programming-centered SF convention that celebrates diversity of people, community, media, and ideas in the Twin Cities is important to you, that you support SF Minnesota and Diversicon however you can. One way is by buying a membership in the convention. Another is by making a donation (no amount too small). Another is by purchasing an ad in the convention program book. Other ways involve no money whatsoever. If you've had a good experience at Diversicon in the past, talk it up to your friends and on your blog. Alternatively, just show up at one of the readings or our parties at other cons -- your presence and energy are welcome!

May 2009 be a good year for all of you, despite all the reasons it might not be.

2009 Speculations Readings; D17 Flash Fiction Contest

The Web site is almost up-to-date.

• The Diversicon 17 hotel info is now up, including a link to a map.
• The D17 Activities page has been updated, including with information about our second Flash Fiction Contest.
• Information about more wonderful authors in the Speculations reading series has been posted.

The first Progress Report is planned to go in the mail soon. Don't forget: The early registration deadline is March 15, 2009! A registration form is at the Web site, as well as instructions for registering via PayPal.

Diversicon 18: Proposals Wanted!

Diversicon 18 will be held in 2010, but it's time to start planning now. SF Minnesota has published a Request for Proposals. (You can also go to the site's main page and click on the purple box labeled "Prospectives.") The deadline to know of your interest is Monday, January 5, so if you've ever thought about steering a Diversicon from twinkle in the eye to a successful Closing Ceremonies, now is the time.

Diversicon 17: Guests, Hotel, . . . !

The Webmistress has taken a break, but she's ba-ack. The site will see a steady succession of updates over the coming weeks. To start with, we now have all our Guests posted. We're excited that two Special Guests will be joining author GoH Kay Kenyon at D17: scholar and author Michael Levy and poet Sandra Lindow. Check out their bios and photos.

Also, we have a contract signed with a hotel. We'll get full info up at the site soon. In the meantime, here's the basics:

D17 will be at the home of four previous Diversicons, umpteen Arcanas, and two Con-Sarnits: the Best Western—Bandana Square, 1010 Bandana Blvd. W., St. Paul (651-647-1637). [Click on the address link to see a map.] The hotel is built inside an historic train repair shop, incorporating the original train tracks and wood beams in the lobby; the lobby's ample seating makes a great locus for hanging out. Our programming and party space will be conveniently located on the first floor around the lobby. The Diversicon room rate is $97.99 + 13.25% tax per night; mention Diversicon when reserving a room. Deadline: July 10, 2009.

It's a Wrap!

We have Diversicon-ed! For the 16th time!

Many thanks to everyone who came and made D16 a wonderful experience -- especially to our author guests, our panel participants, our dealers, and our volunteers.

Special thanks also to everyone who filled out a member survey form. We'll be compiling and digesting the feedback once we catch our breath. One bit of data that's very gratifying is the response to this question: Will you attend Diversicon again? Respondents had a choice of definitely yes, maybe yes, don't know, maybe not, and definitely not. 100% of respondents say Definitely Yes! That's so gratifying. And SF Minnesota will work hard to make the con even better.

Even better? That means there's another con? Yep, Diversicon 17. Guest of Honor is noted SF author Kay Kenyon. Also honoring Edgar Allan Poe and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Dates are July 31 - August 2, 2009. Location TBD, probably in a week or so. And we'll be blogging the con here as it takes shape.

National Marrow Donor Program

Hours until Guest of Honor Anne Frasier's reading at DreamHaven: 3
Hours until Convention Opening Ceremonies: 28

Many thanks to Tamu Townsend, both for supporting Diversicon and for making us aware of bone marrow registry, an opportunity to save lives. Bone marrow matches are most often found between people of the same ethnic background. Many people are waiting for compatible donors, and donors of all ethnicities are needed. However, persons of color are underrepresented in the donor registry, making matches less likely. Whatever your background, please learn more about this opportunity to save a life.

National Marrow Donor Program (U.S.): www.marrow.org

Emru's Story: www.healemru.com

What's the Weather?

Days until Guest of Honor Anne Frasier's reading at DreamHaven: 2
Days until Convention Opening Ceremonies: 3

Looks as though it's going to be a nice weekend to be inside an air-conditioned hotel -- and to take the occasional stroll outside followed by a cold drink. Highs around 90, lows in the high 60s, no rain. If that changes (and when is the forecast ever entirely right?), one place to find the latest is at Wunderground.com.

The crossing of t's and dotting of i's continues to make sure we have an organized, enjoyable convention. Hard to believe that by this time next week, we will have conned!