Loading…
Philcon 2018 has ended
Welcome to Philcon 2018!
Friday, November 16
 

4:00pm EST

Screening: Crest of the Stars (eps 1-2)
[TV-14] A massive, highly advanced alien civilization called the Abh Empire invades the human-inhabited planet of Martine. Seven years later, his son meets a spirited Abh princess who will guide him through an impending intergalactic war.
Speakers
KS

Kristyn Souder

Kristyn is happy to return to Philcon to present her thoughts on anime, gaming, fantasy, sci-fi, con-running, and all things geek. In addition to heading the Anime Track at Philcon, she is the External Communications Director for Zenkaikon, a local anime and sci-fi convention. Her... Read More →
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

4:00pm EST

Jews in Space: Friday Shabbat Services
Friday November 16, 2018 4:00pm - 5:30pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

5:00pm EST

Screening: Crest of the Stars (eps 3-4)
[TV-14] A massive, highly advanced alien civilization called the Abh Empire invades the human-inhabited planet of Martine. Seven years later, his son meets a spirited Abh princess who will guide him through an impending intergalactic war.
Speakers
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Friday November 16, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

5:00pm EST

Writing for Aliens: Creating Arts Cultures
Visual arts, music, dance, dramatic performance- even the creation of speculative fiction- can't be the province of only humankind. What might these things look like on other planets? What about types of art created for sensory systems we don't have?
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
VC

Vikki Ciaffone

Vikki Ciaffone has been reading and writing since a freakishly young age. She is a freelance editor and writer, and has worked for Spencer Hill Press. She knows a little bit about an astonishing number of largely irrelevant things. In her spare time, she plays craps with the Fates... Read More →
avatar for Peter Prellwitz

Peter Prellwitz

Peter Prellwitz has been writing stories, plays and skits since the fifth grade. As a child and young adult, Peter saw limited publication of one play and two series of children’s puppet skits. Just enough to hook him for life.Presently, Peter has a total of nine novels published... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

5:00pm EST

Match That Theme Song! [Family Friendly]
No need to have watched TV; in each round, after listening to four named audio clips, identify the challenge clip.
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media, The Family Friendly Options!

6:00pm EST

From East to West: The Changing Face of Animation
For many years, one of the hallmarks of anime has been progressive story arcs where characters evolve across episodes and seasons. Compare this to episodic Western animation where status quo is king. However, due in part to Western animators who grew up on anime, this is beginning to change. This panel will examine how this and many other attributes of anime have influenced and inspired Western animation.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
BT

Brian T. Graening-Price

Brian T. Price was hooked on japanese animation at an early age after his exposure to "Battle Of The Planets" in the first grade. But it wasn't until a chance meeting in New York City circa 1987 that he learned about organized anime fandom in the form of the Animation/Fantasy Association... Read More →
avatar for Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino Studios
Carl Paolino is a veteran of the entertainment industry. As producer, director, screenwriter, and production designer, his credits include feature films, television series, music videos, Broadway shows, and television commercials. His animated productions include: MTV’s Celebrity... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

6:00pm EST

Artists That Have Influenced Me
Our panelists reveal the artists and art movements that have influenced their works.
Speakers
AB

Alan Beck

Alan F. Beck has been an artist, designer and illustrator for over 30 years doing work for many major corporations including book covers and magazine illustrations. His work has been exhibited in art shows and Science Fiction/Fantasy conventions all across the country. He has won... Read More →
HH

Heidi Hooper

Heidi Hooper is the dryer lint Lady -- Believe it or Not! Her unusual art is featured in Ripley's Believe it or Not Museums all over the world and in their books. She's also a two time winner of the prestigious Niche award, as has been the Artist Guest of Honor at Albacon and Heliosphere... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Lilly

Nathan Lilly

N.E. Lilly is the editor of SpaceWesterns.com, Everyday Weirdness, and Thaumatrope. He develops websites for Science Fiction professionals and organizations through GreenTentacles. He has designed artwork and illustrations for a variety of media and processes, such as stage productions... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

6:00pm EST

Open Gaming starts at 6pm
Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

6:00pm EST

Creative Curses to Inflict on Your Characters
Falling asleep for a hundred years is so passe. What are some fun, fresh, modern enchantments you can use to put your protagonists to the test?
Speakers
VC

Vikki Ciaffone

Vikki Ciaffone has been reading and writing since a freakishly young age. She is a freelance editor and writer, and has worked for Spencer Hill Press. She knows a little bit about an astonishing number of largely irrelevant things. In her spare time, she plays craps with the Fates... Read More →
avatar for Elektra Hammond

Elektra Hammond

writer/editor, Until Midnight
Elektra Hammond emulates her multi-sided idol Buckaroo Banzai by going in several directions at once. She’s been involved in publishing since the 1990s—now she writes, concocts anthologies & edits science fiction for various and sundry. When not freelancing or appearing at science... Read More →
avatar for Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner is the author of three published novels and dozens of short stories, former publisher and editor in chief of the oldest extant small press science fiction magazine, SPACE AND TIME. He is also a copy editor, New York City tour guide, story teller, sound technician, and... Read More →
avatar for Nick Martell

Nick Martell

Nick Martell is the author of THE KINGDOM OF LIARS out May 7th and June 23rd from Gollancz and Saga Press.
avatar for Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman is a writer, translator, and anthologist from Brooklyn, NY. His political fantasy novel Eridani’s Crown was published in 2019. Over 120 of his short stories have appeared in Analog, Nature, Strange Horizons, and many other venues. His website is www.alexshvartsm... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

6:00pm EST

Tesla, Gernsback, and the Birth of Science Fiction
How Nikola Tesla influenced the imagination of Hugo Gernsback, and the impact it had on the SF genre.
Speakers
avatar for Miriam Seidel

Miriam Seidel

Writer
Miriam Seidel's novel, The Speed of Clouds (New Door Books), takes place in the world of sci-fi fandom. She also wrote the libretto for Violet Fire, an opera about Nikola Tesla, performed in Belgrade, New York, and Philadelphia. She’s written for the Philadelphia Inquirer and other... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

6:00pm EST

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Self-Publishing
When is it better to shop your book around to publishers, and when does it make more sense to put it out yourself?
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Panelist, eSpec Books
Award-winning author Danielle Ackley-McPhail has worked both sides of the publishing industry for longer than she cares to admit. In 2014 she joined forces with husband Mike McPhail and friend Greg Schauer to form her own publishing house, eSpec Books (www.especbooks.com). Her published... Read More →
RC

Russ Colchamiro

Russ Colchamiro is the author of the rollicking space opera, Crossline, the zany SF/F backpacking comedy series Finders Keepers, Genius de Milo, and Astropalooza, editor of the SF anthology Love, Murder & Mayhem, and co-author of Murder in Montague Falls, all with Crazy 8 Press. Russ... Read More →
avatar for Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio is best known as the author of the Fractured Time Trilogy; the Space Frontiers series; the adult horror series Night Creeps I and II and his recent new Pain series with Princess Pain and the new sequel, Queen of Pain. Michael worked for several years as a nuclear... Read More →
avatar for April Grey

April Grey

April Grey's short stories can be found in various anthologies, both in print and on-line. Her collections of short stories, The Fairy Cake Bake Shoppe, and I'll Love You Forever are also available through Amazon. She is the editor of Hell's Garden: Bad, Mad and Ghostly Gardeners... Read More →
CK

Chris Kreuter

Chris is a sci-fi author best known for the kid's novel The Intergalactic Adventures of the Rainy River Bees. The sequel, Revenge on the Rainy River Bees! comes out November 2019. He's also designed & published multiple board games as co-owner of Masquerade Games. By day, Chris is... Read More →
avatar for Paul Levinson

Paul Levinson

author, singer-songwriter
Paul Levinson, PhD, is Professor of Communication & Media Studies at Fordham University in NYC. His science fiction novels include The Consciousness Plague, The Pixel Eye, and the Sierra Water trilogy: The Plot To Save Socrates, Unburning Alexandria, and Chronica. His stories and... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

6:00pm EST

Readings: Friday 6pm
Speakers
SD

Samuel Delany

With four Nebula Awards and two Hugo Awards behind him, Samuel R. Delany became a Grandmaster of Science Fiction in 2014. His novels include BABEL-17, THE EINSTEIN INTERSECTION, NOVA, DHALGREN, STARS IN MY POCKET LIKE GRAINS OF SAND, the four-volume Return to Nevèrÿon, and his most... Read More →
BW

Barna William Donovan

Barna William Donovan is a professor of communication and media studies at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey. His first novel, CONFIRMATION: INVESTIGATIONS OF THE UNEXPLAINED, was published by World Castle Publishing in July 2018. He is also the author of three... Read More →
MW

Mark Wolverton

Mark Wolverton is a science journalist, author, and 2016-17 Knight-MIT Science Journalism Fellow. He writes for various national and international publications including WIRED, Nature, Undark, Scientific American, and Air & Space Smithsonian. He has also worked with the NASA Ames... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

6:00pm EST

Workshop: Exotic Modular & Building Block Toys [Family Friendly]
Explore construction systems beyond the paradigm of LEGO bricks.
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology, The Family Friendly Options!

7:00pm EST

Mobile Suit Lyrical Nanoha
A look at the Mecha Genre's influence on "Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha." Nanoha Takamachi's journey may have started with saving a talking ferret, but her world has more in common with that of Gundam Pilot Amuro Ray than that of other Magical Girls. Join us as we explore how the Nanoha franchise has taken inspiration from the Mecha genre.
Speakers
JH

James Hicks

A founding member of the DC-based panel troupe "Winning The War On Pants", James "Shep" Hicks has presented panels on a variety of topics within the anime fandom.
NT

Nathan Thatcher

A new presenter for Philcon's 2017 Anime track.

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

7:00pm EST

Autographs: Friday 7pm
Speakers
SD

Samuel Delany

With four Nebula Awards and two Hugo Awards behind him, Samuel R. Delany became a Grandmaster of Science Fiction in 2014. His novels include BABEL-17, THE EINSTEIN INTERSECTION, NOVA, DHALGREN, STARS IN MY POCKET LIKE GRAINS OF SAND, the four-volume Return to Nevèrÿon, and his most... Read More →
BW

Barna William Donovan

Barna William Donovan is a professor of communication and media studies at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey. His first novel, CONFIRMATION: INVESTIGATIONS OF THE UNEXPLAINED, was published by World Castle Publishing in July 2018. He is also the author of three... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

7:00pm EST

Miss Lizzy's Traveling Historical Fashion Show
Join us for an exhibit and discussion of Victorian-era dress and entertainments, with authentic antique garments, millinery and accessories, personal autograph albums, stereopticons and photographic stereovision cards to view! Miss Lizzy's is a non-profit Special Interest Group of the International Costumer's Guild whose mission is to preserve and research fashion and domestic life of the Victorian era through WWI. Hold actual history in your own hands!
Speakers
LA

Lisa Ashton

Lisa Ashton is a SF/Fantasy/Historical costumer living in Harpers Ferry, WV. At Philcon 2010 she and Sandy Swank won BIS with "The Letter", a re-creation of the famous Civil War letter written by Sullivan Ballou to his wife Sarah early in the war. She has also done a humorous but... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

7:00pm EST

Building a Bug-Out Bag
Bugging out or locking down, let's talk about how to prepare for various emergency situations. What do you need in your survival kit?
Speakers
TF

Tony Finan

Tony suffers from photophobia caused by prolonged servitude in the Philcon film room, which he had run for over 15 years. He is an avid fan of the science fiction and horror film genres, specializing in British, Asian, and Zombie films. When not watching movies, he can be found behind... Read More →
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Lilly

Nathan Lilly

N.E. Lilly is the editor of SpaceWesterns.com, Everyday Weirdness, and Thaumatrope. He develops websites for Science Fiction professionals and organizations through GreenTentacles. He has designed artwork and illustrations for a variety of media and processes, such as stage productions... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

7:00pm EST

Filk Theme Circle: Space Adventures
Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

7:00pm EST

Video Games and Disability
From ADHD and autism to wheelchairs and walkers, video games across platforms offer a unique way to connect people who otherwise would not have an avenue or outlet to reach out to people. How else does the world of digital storytelling open avenues for disabled content creators and consumers?
Speakers
MH

Muriel Hykes

Muriel Hykes (AKA Dr. Mom) At Philcon, and elsewhere in East Coast fandom, she participates in panels on nutrition, allergies, education, ADHD, learning disabilities, computers, and the future of just about everything (isn't that what SF is really about?) She and her rocket-scientist... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →
MR

Michael Ryan

Mike Ryan is a Twitch streamer (https://twitch.tv/toanstation) using playing games a vehicle to talk about games. He has been a fan of science fiction ever since the age of six. His love of the genre has expanded to include tabletop games, video games and anime.

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

7:00pm EST

Black Holes Explained!
What they are, what they are NOT, why it's A Bad Idea to confuse a black hole with a wormhole, and how to use them in scientifically accurate ways in your writing.
Speakers
JA

John Ashmead

John Ashmead has a BA in physics from Harvard, summa cum laude, and a masters in physics from Princeton. For several years he was an assistant editor for Asimov's SF Magazine. Since then he has worked as a software and database developer, working in the medical, legal, advertising... Read More →
avatar for Bob Hranek

Bob Hranek

Systems Engineer, Lockheed Martin
Six years of computer programming started my professional career, followed by 28 years as an intelligence analyst, systems engineer, and program analyst. I’m a vocal Space Exploitation Advocate, read hard-SF whenever I have time, give blood five times a year (200 pints & counting... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

I'm a PhD astronomer who defected from academia to work on weather satellites for NOAA. Ask me about being a scientist. I wrote/produced a series of short, comedic films about asexuality, because I'm asexual and wanted to see aces in action. I recently came out as agender and I got... Read More →
avatar for Peter Prellwitz

Peter Prellwitz

Peter Prellwitz has been writing stories, plays and skits since the fifth grade. As a child and young adult, Peter saw limited publication of one play and two series of children’s puppet skits. Just enough to hook him for life.Presently, Peter has a total of nine novels published... Read More →
JW

Jay Wile

Dr. Jay L. Wile holds an earned Ph.D. from the University of Rochester in nuclear chemistry and a B.S. in chemistry from the same institution. He has taught at both the university and high school levels and has won several awards for excellence in teaching. He has also published more... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

7:00pm EST

Heists on the Moon
When can science fiction most effectively mix with horror, fantasy, mysteries or any other genre? What ways can the boundaries of genres can be experimented with? Who's written excellent examples of this?
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →
avatar for Karalyn Morris

Karalyn Morris

K. L. Morris has been published in The Flexible Persona, Body Parts, and Shimmer. She has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and was an honorable mention for Ellen Datlow's Best of the Year Horror Anthology. She works as a freelance academic editor, copyeditor, developmental editor... Read More →
avatar for Shannon O’Shea

Shannon O’Shea

Shannon O'Shea is a speculative fiction writer from Phoenixville, PA. She has presented at The Pennsylvania Writers Conference and the King's College Creative Writing Conference.
AR

Aaron Rosenberg

Aaron Rosenberg is an award-winning novelist, children's book author, and game designer. His novels include the best-selling DuckBob SF comedy series, the Relicant Chronicles epic fantasy series, the Dread Remora space-opera series, and, with David Niall Wilson, the O.C.L.T. occult... Read More →
MS

Michael Swanwick

Michael Swanwick has received the Hugo Nebula, Theodore Sturgeon, World Fantasy, and Grand Roscon Awards and His work has been translated and published throughout the world. His novels include CHASING THE PHOENIX, DANCING WITH BEARS, STATIONS OF THE TIDE, JACK FAUST, BONES OF THE... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

7:00pm EST

How Different Ways You Read a Story Affect What You Get Out of It
People differ in how they read (or listen) to a story. They may read fast or linger over the text. They may search back for “clues” or just go for the ride. How can the different modes impact your experience?
Speakers
BB

Brandon Budda

Brandon Budda is a local Philadelphia-based podcast host and science fiction aficionado. He has a background in English and Philosophy. He is also the co-founder of Claytemple media and co-host of the Gene Wolfe Literary Podcast and Eldersign: A Weird Fiction Podcast. Brandon is also... Read More →
avatar for Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook is a fan, an author and an artist, generally in that order but not always. Eric's most recent work is being published in the Defending the Future series from E-spec books. He has been part of the team running the Watch The Skies science fiction and fantasy group and... Read More →
avatar for Nick Martell

Nick Martell

Nick Martell is the author of THE KINGDOM OF LIARS out May 7th and June 23rd from Gollancz and Saga Press.
GM

Glenn McDorman

G.L. McDorman writes horror and fantasy, and is lucky to have already achieved his life's ambition of having his name appear next to H.P. Lovecraft in a table of contents. Several of Glenn's speculative-fiction short stories and novellas will be published in 2019, and he is hard at... Read More →
avatar for Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson, a Philadelphia area freelance writer and editor, is the editor of Wild Violet (wildviolet.net), a weekly online literary magazine. She has published a poetry chapbook, "Picturebook of the Martyrs," an essay collection, "The Art of Life," and an ebook, "Dedicated Idiocy... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

7:00pm EST

Readings: Friday 7pm
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Panelist, eSpec Books
Award-winning author Danielle Ackley-McPhail has worked both sides of the publishing industry for longer than she cares to admit. In 2014 she joined forces with husband Mike McPhail and friend Greg Schauer to form her own publishing house, eSpec Books (www.especbooks.com). Her published... Read More →
DS

Darrell Schweitzer

Darrell Schweitzer's books include three novels, THE WHITE ISLE, THE SHATTERED GODDESS, THE MASK OF THE SORCERER, and THE DRAGON HOUSE, plus nine short-story collections, the most recent of which is a volume of Lovecraftian stories, AWAITING STRANGE GODS, published by Fedogan & Bremer... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

7:00pm EST

How Close Are We To Replicators?
3D printers have now been used to successfully print everything from rocket engines to human skin. How far are we from printing a cup of Earl Grey, Hot?
Speakers
EB

Earl Bennett

I was a product engineer on devices for the blind and deafblind individuals for twenty six years. I am currently working on production and q.c. test for Data Display Systems a producer of point of sales systems and in-store advertising devices and systems. I am now Lead Technician... Read More →
BD

Bruce Dykes

Bruce has been a long time gamer and an SFF reader for even longer. His writing career has actually achieved negative time flow.
avatar for John Monahan

John Monahan

Science Writer
John Monahan is a writer, and science teacher. He is the author of the non-fiction book They Called Me Mad: Genius, Madness and the Scientists Who Pushed the Outer Limits of Knowledge. His newest book is another non-fiction work, Babbage & Lovelace: The Victorian Computer Wizard and... Read More →
CR

Charlie Robertson

How to make a Rock Robertson. Mix two Adventure genomes (predominantly endurance-selected North African with a splash of European), decant in Asia and inoculate through Global Travel, ensuring at least four continents of pathogenic exposure. Introduce a disdain for blind Authority... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

8:00pm EST

Concert: Denebian Slime Devils
A half-hour concert.
Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 8:30pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

8:00pm EST

Venture Bros. Returns!
Fourteen years ago, an animated cartoon show on Adult Swim paved the way for the idea of a shared cross continuity entertainment universe. Blending elements from comics, pulp, science fiction, spy shows, Scooby Doo, and David Bowie and putting them against the backdrop of a failed Jet Age future...and now it's back!
Speakers
OH

Orenthal Hawkins

Orenthal V. Hawkins is an IT professional and a self-described Super Geek and Ultra Nerd. Or is that Ultra Geek and Super Nerd? Anyway... He is also adorkable, geektastic & delightfully nerdy. He is also 100% original and not a reboot. From B-movies to anime, from Old Time Radio to... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya is a freelance editor, writer, and content manager. She currently has been doing editing work for manga publisher Seven Seas Entertainment. She has also worked at the SoHo ArtHouse digital art gallery in New York City, where she organized the successful AniMiniCon SoHo... Read More →
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

8:00pm EST

Autographs: Friday 8pm
Speakers
JP

Joshua Palmatier

Joshua Palmatier is a fantasy writer with a PhD in mathematics. He is the author of nine epic fantasy novel, his most recent being the conclusion of the "Ley" series, REAPING THE AURORA, from DAW Books. He is also the founder and an editor for the small press Zombies Need Brains... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

8:00pm EST

Steve Ditko Requiem & Retrospective
Steve Ditko was a major creative force in the creation of Marvel Comics. He was the original artist and co-creator of Spider-Man, crucial in the creation and visual design of Dr. Strange, originated the DC characters The Creeper, Hawk, Dove, & Shade the Changing Man, as well as ones Alan Moore used in his original pitch for the Watchmen.
Speakers
GH

Glenn Hauman

Glenn Hauman has been called a "young Turk of publishing" by the New York Observer and a "Silicon Alley Veteran" by Crain's New York Business. He has been a featured speaker on the future of publishing at numerous industry trade shows. He's missed out on being an Internet millionaire... Read More →
avatar for Pam Smith

Pam Smith

Dame Dahlia Cosplay
Dame Dahlia is a cosplayer from Central Pennsylvania and is an active member of the Central Pennsylvania Heroes Coalition and the Philadelphia Avengers which are cosplay groups that does community service to local children’s hospitals and other organizations in Pennsylvania. I am... Read More →
avatar for F. M. Yates

F. M. Yates

Appraiser, Atomic City Comics
If you've bought comics on South St. in Philadelphia in the past 30 (?) years, then you've probably bought them from Michael. As owner of Atomic City Comics, on South St. (The coolest street in Philadelphia), Michael has been the local Comic Book pusher for decades. Writer and performer... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Comics & Graphic Novels

8:00pm EST

Workshop: Ribbonwork Techniques
Vintage ruching and other uses for ribbonwork on historical dress or quilting. Handouts and materials will be provided.
Speakers
DK

Diane Kovalcin

Diane Kovalcin is a long-time costumer, competing in both Science Fiction and Historical masquerades, a quilter and fan fiction writer. She also loves Star Wars and the BBC tv show Merlin - just ask her (or better yet, don't ask as she won't shut up about it).

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay, Workshops

8:00pm EST

8pm: PSFS Meeting & 8:20pm: How To Navigate Philcon - A Newcomer's Guide
After briefly convening for their November meeting, members of The Philadelphia Science Fiction Society- the organization behind Philcon- will answer any questions you have about the event and what to expect for the weekend.
Speakers
TD
GF

Gary Feldbaum

Overworked fan, voracious reader, I've been reading science fiction from about age 4 (and still own all of the books I've purchased). When I'm not busy working as an attorney, you can often find me working on conventions here and there.
CR

Charlie Robertson

How to make a Rock Robertson. Mix two Adventure genomes (predominantly endurance-selected North African with a splash of European), decant in Asia and inoculate through Global Travel, ensuring at least four continents of pathogenic exposure. Introduce a disdain for blind Authority... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

8:00pm EST

Game: D&D 5E - The Dragon Turtle Back Zoo
It's the first day of your unpaid internship at the Dragon Turtle Back Zoo, where the curious from every nation come to see the most exotic and dangerous monsters in the world. You hope to parlay this valuable learning experience into a long and distinguished career in cryptozoology (or least some college credit), but first you have to survive your new boss. Adventure for 1st level D&D 5E characters, pre-generated character sheets will be provided.
Speakers
A

Aaron

Attendee
Aaron Feldman is a mechanical engineer, longtime fan, gamer, fic writer, vidder, and amateur post-modernist.

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

8:00pm EST

Fantasy Without Fantasy?
How much actual supernaturalism or other fantastic elements (dragons, magic, elves, etc.) does a fantasy story require? There are examples of books marketed as fantasy, set in imaginary places, that contain no fantastic elements- How do they function within the genre?
Speakers
avatar for Ken Altabef

Ken Altabef

An active SFWA member, Ken's short fiction has appeared in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Interzone, Daily Science Fiction, Intergalactic Medicine Show, BuzzyMag, Abyss & Apex, Perihelion and others. He is the author of eleven published novels with two more on the way... Read More →
avatar for Sally Wiener Grotta

Sally Wiener Grotta

Author
Sally Wiener Grotta’s books include The Winter Boy (a Locus Magazine’s 2015 Recommended Read) and Jo Joe (a Jewish Book Council Network book). Her story "One Widow's Healing" was a 2019 Health Odyssey winner.Her hundreds of stories, columns and essays have appeared in scores of... Read More →
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →
avatar for Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino Studios
Carl Paolino is a veteran of the entertainment industry. As producer, director, screenwriter, and production designer, his credits include feature films, television series, music videos, Broadway shows, and television commercials. His animated productions include: MTV’s Celebrity... Read More →
JS

Jim Stratton

Jim Stratton is a chameleon. By day, he is a mild-mannered government lawyer, and lives with his wife and children in southern Delaware. But he's been an avid fan of speculative fiction all his life, and began writing genre fiction 20+ years ago. In recent years he's been forging... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

8:00pm EST

Learning to be an Effective Panel Moderator
Moderating a panel is more than just showing up and asking people to quiet down if a discussion gets out of hand. Learn what the best mods do to prepare for and handle the panels they are responsible for managing.
Speakers
SB
avatar for Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner is the author of three published novels and dozens of short stories, former publisher and editor in chief of the oldest extant small press science fiction magazine, SPACE AND TIME. He is also a copy editor, New York City tour guide, story teller, sound technician, and... Read More →
RR

Ray Ridenour

I'm a long time fan (since 1966) and artist. At conventions I've exhibited paintings, drawings and stained glass windows. I've acted and sang in fan-musicals, been on many panels and have also moderated quite a few. Outside of fandom, I've created commercial displays for department... Read More →
SS

Susan Shwartz

Back after several years, Susan Shwartz's most recent books are a reprint of WHITE WING (with Shariann Lewitt , writing as Gordon Kendall) and THE SUBVERSIVE JOB HUNGER'S HAND BOOK. She is also responsible for HOSTILE TAKEOVER (Tor) and the VULCAN SOUL trilogy (with the late Josepha... Read More →
avatar for Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman was the Editor-in-chief of Space and Time Magazine for 12 years. She is a short fiction author whose recent publications include, "My Dear Wa'ats" (2018, Baker Street Irregulars II: The Game's Afoot, Ventrella & Maberry, eds.), "The Lady of the Lakes" (2018, Camelot... Read More →
JW

Jeff Warner

Jeff Warner is a professor of autodidactism, stand-up philosopher, not-recently-published writer, former president of the Science Fiction Forum, freelance punslinger, and as a 'ninja-smof' a co-founder of a hat trick of sf conventions. "Geek, Nerd, AND Dork? I'm a Triple Threat... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

8:00pm EST

So You Want To Make A Podcast...
Our presenters will discuss their approaches and experiences with creating a serial podcast.
Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

8:00pm EST

Readings: Friday 8pm
Speakers
avatar for Paul Levinson

Paul Levinson

author, singer-songwriter
Paul Levinson, PhD, is Professor of Communication & Media Studies at Fordham University in NYC. His science fiction novels include The Consciousness Plague, The Pixel Eye, and the Sierra Water trilogy: The Plot To Save Socrates, Unburning Alexandria, and Chronica. His stories and... Read More →
MS

Muriel Stockdale

Muriel Stockdale’s successful 35-year career in entertainment as a designer, director, filmmaker and artist honed her ability and desire to tell her stories. She has for her entire life been fascinated by myths, spirituality and science fiction. She began avidly reading and comparing... Read More →
JW

Joan Wendland

Joan Wendland is a game designer, an engineer, and the owner of Blood and Cardstock Games. Joan has designed card games, live action role playing games, and honest to God war games for the US government. In addition she has published two novels- Backstage: a novel of secret agendas... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

8:00pm EST

Chicken Soup for the...Brain?
We are coming to a new understanding of how the brain and mind interrelate. How will this change current methods of therapy?
Speakers
MH

Muriel Hykes

Muriel Hykes (AKA Dr. Mom) At Philcon, and elsewhere in East Coast fandom, she participates in panels on nutrition, allergies, education, ADHD, learning disabilities, computers, and the future of just about everything (isn't that what SF is really about?) She and her rocket-scientist... Read More →
avatar for James Prego

James Prego

Adjunct Professor of Biology
Dr. Prego is a naturopathic doctor from Long Island and a past recipient of the NYANP's Physician of the Year award. He is an adjunct professor of Biology at Molly College, NCC, and LIU. A longtime fan of science fiction, he enjoys discussing xenobiology, health in space, fusions... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →
avatar for Mary Spila

Mary Spila

Librarian, State Library of Pennsylvania
Mary Spila is not your stereotypical, mild-mannered librarian. She is an active member in the Society for Creative Anachronism. The spins her own yard, knits, and does tablet weaving. She reads everything within visual range. Current favorites are mixed genre fiction, History, and... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

8:30pm EST

Concert: Mark Mandel
A half-hour concert.
Friday November 16, 2018 8:30pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

9:00pm EST

Anime Blinded Me with Science
When most people think of sci-fi anime they think of legendary giant robots, but some sci-fi anime gets the science more right than you may think!
Speakers
avatar for Walter Amos

Walter Amos

das Kriegsministerium
Walter first developed an interest in Japanese animation with the premiere of "Star Blazers" in 1979 on WTAF TV 29 in Philadelphia, after already succumbing to science fiction in general. He attempted to catch a movie version of this series at Philcon 1984, but missed it and instead... Read More →
RF

Robert Fenelon

Robert Fenelon walked into a room party at Philcon 1981 and was introduced to the wonderful world of VHS tape trading, Japanese pen-pals and Anime. RF spent the next four decades sharing that experience by writing, editing and publishing about anime, and showing anime at convention... Read More →
BJ

Ben Jorritsma

Ben's interests include Anime, STEM, promoting DIY/Maker culture, and promoting agricultural awareness.
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

9:00pm EST

Adapting Textile Arts for Manual Disabilities
A discussion of disability-friendly looms and art styles (such as the Saori weaving loom and machine ribbon embroidery) for people who have developed difficulties doing handwork.
Speakers
KH

Kirsten Houseknecht

Kirsten is a longtime costumer who enjoys playing with textiles and colors SO MUCH that she went back to college in her forties for fashion design. Her senior collection featured stenciling, dying, bleaching and color removal as well as hand weaving and knitting. She likes combining... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

9:00pm EST

Filk Theme Circle: Best Family Song (Pegasus Category #1)
Speakers
RR

Roberta Rogow

Roberta Rogow has been involved in Fandom since 1973 as a Filker, Costumer, Fanzine writer and editor, and Artist (specializing in needlework). She has written historical mysteries, and Alternate History, but her most recent book, Lorr and Disorder, is a noir-ish mystery, "V.I. Warshawski... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

9:00pm EST

Gaming Suite Meet and Greet
Get together with fellow gamers and fans to kick off the weekend.
Speakers
VS

Virginia Swann

Long time Sci-Fi fan and annual participant of Philcon since 2000. Big time gamer girl, she and her husband John now manage the gaming suite. Ginny is also an actress and singer.

Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

9:00pm EST

Bharat's Ballads, Part 1
Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew present an all-ages storytelling session featuring Vedic tales...with a twist! What will it be tonight? The Cycle of Shiva, Sati & Ganesh as a Domestic Dispute? Incarnations of Vishnu as WWE encounters? (Audience participation strongly encouraged!)
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

9:00pm EST

Victorian-Era Fantasy
The source of the popularization of Celtic myth, fairies, and ghost stories, what does modern fantasy owe to developments of the Victorian era?
Speakers
avatar for Philippa Ballantine

Philippa Ballantine

Author
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Philippa Ballantine has always had her head in a book. At the age of thirteen she began writing fantasy stories for herself. Her first professional sale was in 1997, and since then she has gone on to produce novel length fiction. In 2006 she became... Read More →
EC

Elizabeth Crowens

Elizabeth Crowens is the pen name for a veteran writer who is a regular contributor to Blackgate.com. A 15-year veteran of the film industry in Hollywood, a member of Mystery Writers of Americam the Horror Writers Association, Sisters in Crime and Broad Universe. A blackbelt in martial... Read More →
avatar for Linda J. Lee

Linda J. Lee

Director, Instructional Design; Lecturer, Folklore, University of Pennsylvania
Linda J. Lee is the Director of Instructional Design at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where she helps faculty use technology in their courses. She also teaches online and face-to-face Folklore courses for Penn’s School of Liberal and Professional Studies... Read More →
avatar for Mary Spila

Mary Spila

Librarian, State Library of Pennsylvania
Mary Spila is not your stereotypical, mild-mannered librarian. She is an active member in the Society for Creative Anachronism. The spins her own yard, knits, and does tablet weaving. She reads everything within visual range. Current favorites are mixed genre fiction, History, and... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

9:00pm EST

The Chromatics: Concert #1
The Chromatics perform a mix of themes from (and songs about) TV and movies, as well as songs about technology, life, and their intersections
Speakers
DP

Dr. Padi Boyd

Padi Boyd is the Chief of the Exoplanets and Stellar Astrophysics Laboratory in the Astrophysics Science Division, and the Project Scientist for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) Mission (a NASA Explorer Mission launched in April 2018). She has been at Goddard since... Read More →
JM

John Meyer

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. As the bass-baritone and vocal percussionist, John composes unique ditties that make you think, laugh, and go "huh?" Some have even been performed at the Maryland Renaissance Festival by men in tights. Others are sung... Read More →
MO

Michelle Orhan

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Michelle is a singer and a teacher. Her background in vocal performance means she teaches us a thing or two at every rehearsal. And her ability to deal with middle-schoolers means she has no trouble with the Chromies... Read More →
SR

Scott Rohrbach

A tenor-baritone, Scott was the first new Chromatic in 11 years, bringing another scientific mind to the group. He has a high energy groove, and a high frequency voice, but enjoys the occasional ballad when things get a little too excited. He's been writing original astronomy songs... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →
KS

Karen Smale

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Karen sings tenor, alto and mezzo, and writes songs about the Sun and planets, as well as the occasional cautionary tale of gridlock. She also designs most of the group's cover art.

Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Special Events

9:00pm EST

Meet The Pros & Art Show Reception
Friday November 16, 2018 9:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Promenade (Gaming) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Special Events

10:00pm EST

Anime Armaments & Toon Tactics
Join us as we discuss the all-too-rare accurate depictions of military hardware, tactics and strategy in animation.
Speakers
avatar for Walter Amos

Walter Amos

das Kriegsministerium
Walter first developed an interest in Japanese animation with the premiere of "Star Blazers" in 1979 on WTAF TV 29 in Philadelphia, after already succumbing to science fiction in general. He attempted to catch a movie version of this series at Philcon 1984, but missed it and instead... Read More →
RF

Robert Fenelon

Robert Fenelon walked into a room party at Philcon 1981 and was introduced to the wonderful world of VHS tape trading, Japanese pen-pals and Anime. RF spent the next four decades sharing that experience by writing, editing and publishing about anime, and showing anime at convention... Read More →
BT

Brian T. Graening-Price

Brian T. Price was hooked on japanese animation at an early age after his exposure to "Battle Of The Planets" in the first grade. But it wasn't until a chance meeting in New York City circa 1987 that he learned about organized anime fandom in the form of the Animation/Fantasy Association... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

10:00pm EST

Demo: Painting in Lint with Heidi Hooper
Artist Heidi Hooper will show us how to collect and apply this unusual medium.
Speakers
HH

Heidi Hooper

Heidi Hooper is the dryer lint Lady -- Believe it or Not! Her unusual art is featured in Ripley's Believe it or Not Museums all over the world and in their books. She's also a two time winner of the prestigious Niche award, as has been the Artist Guest of Honor at Albacon and Heliosphere... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Art Show (Grand Ballroom C) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

10:00pm EST

Need Help Finishing Your Masquerade Costume?
Or do you just want to socialize rather than shut yourself in your hotel room trying to get those last bits right? Either way, come on down!
Speakers
AH

Anastasia Holt

Anastasia has been sewing and costuming since she was 10 years old and started participating in convention since 2006. Anastasia started in recreation costumes and has expanded to original costumes. Anastasia has been participating in Masquerades since she was 14 years old and has... Read More →
SS

Sarah Sanders

Sarah's costuming journey runs in a straight line from reenactment to LARPing to the convention costuming circuit. She likes to work on a new skill or try a new material for every new con season, and recently leveled up to the Master division.
avatar for Pam Smith

Pam Smith

Dame Dahlia Cosplay
Dame Dahlia is a cosplayer from Central Pennsylvania and is an active member of the Central Pennsylvania Heroes Coalition and the Philadelphia Avengers which are cosplay groups that does community service to local children’s hospitals and other organizations in Pennsylvania. I am... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

10:00pm EST

Friday Night Open Filk
Speakers
MM

Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen

Marilyn "Mattie" Brahen has published fiction in magazines and anthologies in America and Great Britain. Her 2003 first novel, CLAIMING HER, and its 2009 sequel, REFORMING HELL, received good reviews. A third mystery novel, BABY BOY BLUE, was published in 2011 and resold to Linford... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

10:00pm EST

Game: One Night Ultimate Werewolf
No moderator, no elimination, ten-minute games. ONUW is a fast game for 3-10 players in which everyone gets a role, each with a special ability. In a single morning, your village will decide who is a werewolf...because all it takes is killing one werewolf to win!
Speakers
TA

Talavou Alailima

Gaming Suite Staff, and GM for "One Night Ultimate Werewolf".

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

10:00pm EST

Bharat's Ballads, Part 2
A new story for a new hour! Join master storyteller Brigand Rohan Mauryan Balraj and his crew for another Vedic tale with a twist!
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00pm EST

Read & Review: Seasons of Glass and Iron by Amal El-Mohtar
Panelists and audience members will analyze this award-winning fantasy story. Time will be set aside at the start of the panel for those unfamiliar with the work- or who want to refresh their memory- to read it.
It can be found at https://uncannymagazine.com/article/seasons-glass-iron/
Speakers
avatar for Karalyn Morris

Karalyn Morris

K. L. Morris has been published in The Flexible Persona, Body Parts, and Shimmer. She has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and was an honorable mention for Ellen Datlow's Best of the Year Horror Anthology. She works as a freelance academic editor, copyeditor, developmental editor... Read More →
avatar for Shannon O’Shea

Shannon O’Shea

Shannon O'Shea is a speculative fiction writer from Phoenixville, PA. She has presented at The Pennsylvania Writers Conference and the King's College Creative Writing Conference.

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00pm EST

Room Discussion: Westworld Season 2
Have a theory about season two's timeline? Speculation about where the show will go next? Want to discuss what it means to be human in a world that we now know can [REDACTED], or whether or not you're ready to welcome our new android overlords? Because we do!
Speakers
BW

Barna William Donovan

Barna William Donovan is a professor of communication and media studies at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey. His first novel, CONFIRMATION: INVESTIGATIONS OF THE UNEXPLAINED, was published by World Castle Publishing in July 2018. He is also the author of three... Read More →
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →
avatar for Paul Levinson

Paul Levinson

author, singer-songwriter
Paul Levinson, PhD, is Professor of Communication & Media Studies at Fordham University in NYC. His science fiction novels include The Consciousness Plague, The Pixel Eye, and the Sierra Water trilogy: The Plot To Save Socrates, Unburning Alexandria, and Chronica. His stories and... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

10:00pm EST

Paging Dr. Bashir: The Ethics of Hacking Humans
Despite near-universal condemnation of eugenics, the entangled nature of science and capitalism in our society means that someone will inevitably found a company that offers to "enhance" your children...for a fee. How will government regulations, epigenetics, common sense, and morality factor into the possible outcomes?
Speakers
MH

Muriel Hykes

Muriel Hykes (AKA Dr. Mom) At Philcon, and elsewhere in East Coast fandom, she participates in panels on nutrition, allergies, education, ADHD, learning disabilities, computers, and the future of just about everything (isn't that what SF is really about?) She and her rocket-scientist... Read More →
LK

Lawrence Kramer

Dr. Lawrence Kramer has had a lifelong interest in science, sparked at a young age by avidly reading science fiction. He worked in the pharmaceutical industry followed by a career as a programmer analyst for a Fortune 500 financial company. However, the lure of science was too great... Read More →
avatar for John Monahan

John Monahan

Science Writer
John Monahan is a writer, and science teacher. He is the author of the non-fiction book They Called Me Mad: Genius, Madness and the Scientists Who Pushed the Outer Limits of Knowledge. His newest book is another non-fiction work, Babbage & Lovelace: The Victorian Computer Wizard and... Read More →
avatar for James Prego

James Prego

Adjunct Professor of Biology
Dr. Prego is a naturopathic doctor from Long Island and a past recipient of the NYANP's Physician of the Year award. He is an adjunct professor of Biology at Molly College, NCC, and LIU. A longtime fan of science fiction, he enjoys discussing xenobiology, health in space, fusions... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →
JW

Jeff Warner

Jeff Warner is a professor of autodidactism, stand-up philosopher, not-recently-published writer, former president of the Science Fiction Forum, freelance punslinger, and as a 'ninja-smof' a co-founder of a hat trick of sf conventions. "Geek, Nerd, AND Dork? I'm a Triple Threat... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

10:00pm EST

Friday Night Dance
Speakers
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Special Events

11:00pm EST

Bad Anime, Bad! 2018 Edition
The pain! Oh dear God, the pain!! How could you ever allow these shows to see the light of day?! Do you think sanity is overrated? Want utter oblivion to be your best friend? Strap yourselves in for the worst of the worst the animation industry has to offer!
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
BT

Brian T. Graening-Price

Brian T. Price was hooked on japanese animation at an early age after his exposure to "Battle Of The Planets" in the first grade. But it wasn't until a chance meeting in New York City circa 1987 that he learned about organized anime fandom in the form of the Animation/Fantasy Association... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 11:00pm - Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00am EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

11:00pm EST

Room Discussion: The Woman Who Fell To Earth
So, what do you think about the newest season of Doctor Who, and its newest incarnation of The Doctor?
Friday November 16, 2018 11:00pm - Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

11:00pm EST

Game: Cards Against Humanity [18+]
CAH is "a party game for horrible people." Each round, one player asks a question from a Black Card, and everyone else answers with their funniest White Card.
Speakers
VS

Virginia Swann

Long time Sci-Fi fan and annual participant of Philcon since 2000. Big time gamer girl, she and her husband John now manage the gaming suite. Ginny is also an actress and singer.

Friday November 16, 2018 11:00pm - Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00am EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

11:00pm EST

Angsty Fic Tropes and Why We Love Them
What are our favorite fanfic tropes, and why are they so satisfying to read? Why don't we see these tropes as often in 'regular' fiction? Would we *want* to?
Speakers
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →
JS

Jay Smith

Jay Smith is an award-winning audio dramatist, author, and podcast producer. He is the creator and writer of the online zombie horror series HG World, pulp adventure serial Hidden Harbor Mysteries, and the upcoming weird western series The Road to Renascence. His books include the... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 11:00pm - Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00am EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00pm EST

Eye of Argon Interactive: Chapter Five
Our yearly audience-participation reading of what is best known as the worst piece of fantasy fiction ever published in a magazine.
Speakers
DK

Daniel Kimmel

Daniel M. Kimmel is the 2018 recipient of the Skylark Award from the New England Science Ficion Association. A veteran film critic, he was a Hugo finalist for "Jar Jar Binks Must Die." He is the author of a number of short stories, as well as Compton Crook finalist for "Shh! It's... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya is a freelance editor, writer, and content manager. She currently has been doing editing work for manga publisher Seven Seas Entertainment. She has also worked at the SoHo ArtHouse digital art gallery in New York City, where she organized the successful AniMiniCon SoHo... Read More →
RS

Richard Stout

Richard premiered his trilogy of kid spy movies featuring James Blond, Agent Uh-Oh 7, at Philcon, beginning with 1993's LEARNER'S PERMIT TO KILL. His horror makeup/special FX workshop "Monsters, Aliens, and Spirit Gum" has been popular both here and at I-Con. He and his wife Kathryn... Read More →
avatar for Ian Randal Strock

Ian Randal Strock

Fantastic Books
Ian Randal Strock is the editor and publisher of Fantastic Books (www.FantasticBooks.biz). As a writer, his fiction has appeared in Nature, Analog (from which he won two AnLab Awards), and several recent anthologies. His nonfiction has much wider distribution (including "Ranking the... Read More →

Friday November 16, 2018 11:00pm - Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary
 
Saturday, November 17
 

12:00am EST

Screening: Hellsing (eps 1-4)
[TV-MA] The rogue vampire Alucard is the Hellsing Organization's deadliest instrument in its mission to protect the British Empire from undead ghouls and satanic freaks.
Speakers
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00am - 1:00am EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

9:00am EST

Screening: The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (eps 1-2)
[TV-14] Kyon is a cynical and sarcastic teenager. The first day of his first year of high school is filled with hopes of a normal school experience—hopes that are immediately dashed after meeting the beautiful and eccentric Haruhi Suzumiya. At Kyon’s accidental suggestion, she decides to create her own club dedicated to finding and observing life’s oddities—like the aliens, espers, and time travelers she believes walk among normal people.
Speakers
KS

Kristyn Souder

Kristyn is happy to return to Philcon to present her thoughts on anime, gaming, fantasy, sci-fi, con-running, and all things geek. In addition to heading the Anime Track at Philcon, she is the External Communications Director for Zenkaikon, a local anime and sci-fi convention. Her... Read More →
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00am - 10:00am EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

9:00am EST

Workshop: Exotic Modular & Building Block Toys [Family Friendly]
Explore construction systems beyond the paradigm of LEGO bricks.
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00am - 10:00am EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology, The Family Friendly Options!

9:00am EST

Jews in Space: Saturday Shabbat Services
Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

10:00am EST

Screening: The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (eps 3-4)
[TV-14] Kyon is a cynical and sarcastic teenager. The first day of his first year of high school is filled with hopes of a normal school experience—hopes that are immediately dashed after meeting the beautiful and eccentric Haruhi Suzumiya. At Kyon’s accidental suggestion, she decides to create her own club dedicated to finding and observing life’s oddities—like the aliens, espers, and time travelers she believes walk among normal people.
Speakers
KS

Kristyn Souder

Kristyn is happy to return to Philcon to present her thoughts on anime, gaming, fantasy, sci-fi, con-running, and all things geek. In addition to heading the Anime Track at Philcon, she is the External Communications Director for Zenkaikon, a local anime and sci-fi convention. Her... Read More →
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

10:00am EST

Workshop: Make & Take Starry Sunsets [Family Friendly]
Using basic resist and wash techniques, make a lovely watercolor sunset silhouette. All materials provided. Ages 7+.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Hertel

Lisa Hertel

Artist, The Cogitation Zone
Lisa Hertel is an artist from a long line of artists. She specializes in clay and watercolors, but dabbles in many other media; her works are often the products of this cross-pollinization. Her recent materials include encaustics (wax painting) and alcohol inks. In her spare time... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art, The Family Friendly Options!

10:00am EST

Filk By Any Other Name
Speakers
MG
RR

Roberta Rogow

Roberta Rogow has been involved in Fandom since 1973 as a Filker, Costumer, Fanzine writer and editor, and Artist (specializing in needlework). She has written historical mysteries, and Alternate History, but her most recent book, Lorr and Disorder, is a noir-ish mystery, "V.I. Warshawski... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

10:00am EST

One Bad Apple
A primer on how to identify and handle people who make gaming less fun for those around them. We'll discuss tactics and tools to use when dealing with trolls and other toxic influences on your gaming circles.
Speakers
MR

Michael Ryan

Mike Ryan is a Twitch streamer (https://twitch.tv/toanstation) using playing games a vehicle to talk about games. He has been a fan of science fiction ever since the age of six. His love of the genre has expanded to include tabletop games, video games and anime.

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

10:00am EST

Indie Publishing 101: Becoming A Project Manager
How to plan the project, manage time, and stay on budget.
Speakers
avatar for April Grey

April Grey

April Grey's short stories can be found in various anthologies, both in print and on-line. Her collections of short stories, The Fairy Cake Bake Shoppe, and I'll Love You Forever are also available through Amazon. She is the editor of Hell's Garden: Bad, Mad and Ghostly Gardeners... Read More →
GH

Glenn Hauman

Glenn Hauman has been called a "young Turk of publishing" by the New York Observer and a "Silicon Alley Veteran" by Crain's New York Business. He has been a featured speaker on the future of publishing at numerous industry trade shows. He's missed out on being an Internet millionaire... Read More →
CK

Chris Kreuter

Chris is a sci-fi author best known for the kid's novel The Intergalactic Adventures of the Rainy River Bees. The sequel, Revenge on the Rainy River Bees! comes out November 2019. He's also designed & published multiple board games as co-owner of Masquerade Games. By day, Chris is... Read More →
MM
AR

Aaron Rosenberg

Aaron Rosenberg is an award-winning novelist, children's book author, and game designer. His novels include the best-selling DuckBob SF comedy series, the Relicant Chronicles epic fantasy series, the Dread Remora space-opera series, and, with David Niall Wilson, the O.C.L.T. occult... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00am EST

The Fiction of Steven Brust
Exploring the works of our Principal Speaker.
Speakers
CF

Carl Fink

Carl Fink has worked for conventions on and off since 1979. He was the founding chair of LI-CON, a convention based on Long Island, in New York. He has also worked for several Worldcons. In real life he is an Instructional Designer, after periods as a science teacher, programmer... Read More →
avatar for Lawrence M. Schoen

Lawrence M. Schoen

Author, Paper Golem LLC
Lawrence M. Schoen holds a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology, is a past Campbell, Hugo, and Nebula, nominee, twice won the Cóyotl award for best novel, founded the Klingon Language Institute, and occasionally does work as a hypnotherapist specializing in authors’ issues. His science... Read More →
JW

Joan Wendland

Joan Wendland is a game designer, an engineer, and the owner of Blood and Cardstock Games. Joan has designed card games, live action role playing games, and honest to God war games for the US government. In addition she has published two novels- Backstage: a novel of secret agendas... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00am EST

Transhumanism in Fairy Tales
How can thinking about folk and fairy tales help us to understand transhumanism in science fiction? Though transbiology and transhumanism are relatively recent terms, these concepts have long been part of folk narrative, especially mythology and fairy tales. This exploration of fairy tale precursors to the scientific imagination will help illuminate enduring questions about what it means to be human.
Speakers
avatar for Linda J. Lee

Linda J. Lee

Director, Instructional Design; Lecturer, Folklore, University of Pennsylvania
Linda J. Lee is the Director of Instructional Design at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where she helps faculty use technology in their courses. She also teaches online and face-to-face Folklore courses for Penn’s School of Liberal and Professional Studies... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00am EST

Workshop: Performing a Reading
You may write the best dialogue, descriptions, or sentences ever to see print, but the art of presenting your work orally presents a different set of challenges. Let's go over what they are, and how to overcome them.
Speakers
SD

Samuel Delany

With four Nebula Awards and two Hugo Awards behind him, Samuel R. Delany became a Grandmaster of Science Fiction in 2014. His novels include BABEL-17, THE EINSTEIN INTERSECTION, NOVA, DHALGREN, STARS IN MY POCKET LIKE GRAINS OF SAND, the four-volume Return to Nevèrÿon, and his most... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary, Workshops

10:00am EST

DCEU: A Light at the End of the Tunnel?
We all know that Warner Brothers has had a bit of the problem with their DCEU movies. But the latest trailers for Aquaman & SHAZAM look like they’re finally turning the page to a Brand New Day...
Speakers
BW

Barna William Donovan

Barna William Donovan is a professor of communication and media studies at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey. His first novel, CONFIRMATION: INVESTIGATIONS OF THE UNEXPLAINED, was published by World Castle Publishing in July 2018. He is also the author of three... Read More →
OH

Orenthal Hawkins

Orenthal V. Hawkins is an IT professional and a self-described Super Geek and Ultra Nerd. Or is that Ultra Geek and Super Nerd? Anyway... He is also adorkable, geektastic & delightfully nerdy. He is also 100% original and not a reboot. From B-movies to anime, from Old Time Radio to... Read More →
AL

Andre Lieven

Andre Lieven has been involved with SF conventions for [mumbly, mumbly]years and still loves it as much as in the beginning. His interests start with hard SF from Asimov and Clarke and range out to his old childhood favourites of Star Trek and Thunderbirds. All that lead to connecting... Read More →
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

10:00am EST

Writer's Workshop
Feedback sessions for those who submitted work for critique by our panel of pros. Missed this year's deadline? Visit Philcon.org for information about submitting next year!
Speakers
avatar for Ty Drago

Ty Drago

Editor, Publisher, Allegory
Since 1998, Ty has served as publisher and managing editor of ALLEGORY, an e-zine publishing quality science fiction, fantasy, and horror from new and established authors worldwide. He is also the author of nine published novels, has appeared in two anthologies, and has sold numerous... Read More →
LG

Leigh Grossman

Leigh Ronald Grossman is a writer, college lecturer, editor, and occasional reviewer. He teaches in the English Department at the University of Connecticut and is the president of Swordsmith Productions, a book development and book production company. Grossman is the author of fifteen... Read More →
avatar for Elektra Hammond

Elektra Hammond

writer/editor, Until Midnight
Elektra Hammond emulates her multi-sided idol Buckaroo Banzai by going in several directions at once. She’s been involved in publishing since the 1990s—now she writes, concocts anthologies & edits science fiction for various and sundry. When not freelancing or appearing at science... Read More →
avatar for Karalyn Morris

Karalyn Morris

K. L. Morris has been published in The Flexible Persona, Body Parts, and Shimmer. She has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and was an honorable mention for Ellen Datlow's Best of the Year Horror Anthology. She works as a freelance academic editor, copyeditor, developmental editor... Read More →
DS

Darrell Schweitzer

Darrell Schweitzer's books include three novels, THE WHITE ISLE, THE SHATTERED GODDESS, THE MASK OF THE SORCERER, and THE DRAGON HOUSE, plus nine short-story collections, the most recent of which is a volume of Lovecraftian stories, AWAITING STRANGE GODS, published by Fedogan & Bremer... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00am - 12:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

I Mustn't Run Away…I Mustn't Run Away…An Evangelion Debate Panel
Who is the best Evangelion Pilot? What do the last 2 episodes really mean? Is Hideaki Anno legitimately insane or just a misunderstood artist? Join us for an open debate and discussion on the groundbreaking anime "Neon Genesis Evangelion"
Speakers
JH

James Hicks

A founding member of the DC-based panel troupe "Winning The War On Pants", James "Shep" Hicks has presented panels on a variety of topics within the anime fandom.
NT

Nathan Thatcher

A new presenter for Philcon's 2017 Anime track.

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

11:00am EST

Tour of the Art Show with Artist Guest of Honor Gary Lippincott
Speakers
GL

Gary Lippincott

In this increasingly digital age, when images are more frequently painted with pixels than paint, Gary Lippincott remains an illustrator’s illustrator. His fantasy and faerie-themed artwork represent his mastery of a vibrancy and depth only possible in the traditional watercolor... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Art Show (Grand Ballroom C) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

11:00am EST

Autographs: Saturday 11am
Speakers
avatar for Neil Clarke

Neil Clarke

Editor, Clarkesworld Magazine
Neil Clarke (neil-clarke.com) is the editor of the Hugo and World Fantasy Award-winning Clarkesworld Magazine and several anthologies, including the Best Science Fiction of the Year series. He has been a finalist for the Hugo Award for Best Editor (Short Form) eight times, won the... Read More →
JW

Joan Wendland

Joan Wendland is a game designer, an engineer, and the owner of Blood and Cardstock Games. Joan has designed card games, live action role playing games, and honest to God war games for the US government. In addition she has published two novels- Backstage: a novel of secret agendas... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

11:00am EST

Designing Original Costumes
Movie, game and comic characters are one thing, but what if you want to dress up as one from a book, or even your own original character? What do you need to take into consideration?
Speakers
AH

Anastasia Holt

Anastasia has been sewing and costuming since she was 10 years old and started participating in convention since 2006. Anastasia started in recreation costumes and has expanded to original costumes. Anastasia has been participating in Masquerades since she was 14 years old and has... Read More →
avatar for Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino Studios
Carl Paolino is a veteran of the entertainment industry. As producer, director, screenwriter, and production designer, his credits include feature films, television series, music videos, Broadway shows, and television commercials. His animated productions include: MTV’s Celebrity... Read More →
SS

Sarah Sanders

Sarah's costuming journey runs in a straight line from reenactment to LARPing to the convention costuming circuit. She likes to work on a new skill or try a new material for every new con season, and recently leveled up to the Master division.
MS

Muriel Stockdale

Muriel Stockdale’s successful 35-year career in entertainment as a designer, director, filmmaker and artist honed her ability and desire to tell her stories. She has for her entire life been fascinated by myths, spirituality and science fiction. She began avidly reading and comparing... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

11:00am EST

Workshop: Miniature Hat Decorating - $5 fee [90 minutes] [Family Friendly]
Use feathers, ribbons, buttons and trim- or learn how to sew a rosette to attach to the hat! We provide the hat, tables full of trims and bits to try, glue guns and supervision! Open to all- children under 10 should be accompanied/supervised by a parent, but they are welcome. Presented by Carol Salemi and Lisa Ashton
Speakers
LA

Lisa Ashton

Lisa Ashton is a SF/Fantasy/Historical costumer living in Harpers Ferry, WV. At Philcon 2010 she and Sandy Swank won BIS with "The Letter", a re-creation of the famous Civil War letter written by Sullivan Ballou to his wife Sarah early in the war. She has also done a humorous but... Read More →
avatar for Carol Salemi

Carol Salemi

Carol has worked over 40 years in many aspects of costuming from creating/fabricating to teaching, judging, and masquerade directing. She competes in the master division and received this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Costumers Guild. She is a medical... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay, Workshops

11:00am EST

Diversity and Representation in 2018
From #InOurOwnVoices to "Comicsgate", there's a lot to be said about the evolving face- and body- of fiction across all media types. A frank discussion of the considerations involved when creating content intended to depict characters who are different from you, and the impact it can have on your readers, viewers, listeners, and fellow fans.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →
OH

Orenthal Hawkins

Orenthal V. Hawkins is an IT professional and a self-described Super Geek and Ultra Nerd. Or is that Ultra Geek and Super Nerd? Anyway... He is also adorkable, geektastic & delightfully nerdy. He is also 100% original and not a reboot. From B-movies to anime, from Old Time Radio to... Read More →
KP

Kevin Patterson

Kevin Patterson is an active member of the Philadelphia polyamory community. He's been practicing ethical nonmonogamy since August of 2002 after opening up a relationship that eventually became his marriage. In April of 2015, Kevin was inspired to start Poly Role Models, an interview... Read More →
AP

Alana Phelan

Alana Phelan is an author, librarian, editor, event planner, advice columnist, and lifelong nerd. Along with Kevin Patterson, she has written For Hire: Operator, the first in a series of novels set in a universe that centers characters of color, queerness, and alternative relationship... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

11:00am EST

Open Filk
Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

11:00am EST

A Tribute to Ursula K. LeGuin
A discussion of the life and works of this massively influential author, and a celebration of the 50th anniversary of her landmark EarthSea series.
Speakers
VJ

Victoria Janssen

Victoria Janssen reviews for Publishers Weekly. Her most recent novel is The Duke and the Pirate Queen, fantasy erotica from Harlequin (2010). Her major historical research interest is World War One, which is reflected in some of her fiction. Her second novel, The Moonlight Mistress... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya is a freelance editor, writer, and content manager. She currently has been doing editing work for manga publisher Seven Seas Entertainment. She has also worked at the SoHo ArtHouse digital art gallery in New York City, where she organized the successful AniMiniCon SoHo... Read More →
avatar for Miriam Seidel

Miriam Seidel

Writer
Miriam Seidel's novel, The Speed of Clouds (New Door Books), takes place in the world of sci-fi fandom. She also wrote the libretto for Violet Fire, an opera about Nikola Tesla, performed in Belgrade, New York, and Philadelphia. She’s written for the Philadelphia Inquirer and other... Read More →
SS

Susan Shwartz

Back after several years, Susan Shwartz's most recent books are a reprint of WHITE WING (with Shariann Lewitt , writing as Gordon Kendall) and THE SUBVERSIVE JOB HUNGER'S HAND BOOK. She is also responsible for HOSTILE TAKEOVER (Tor) and the VULCAN SOUL trilogy (with the late Josepha... Read More →
SZ

Simone Zelitch

Simone Zelitch is the author of five novels, most recently Judenstaat, an alternative history about a Jewish state established in Germany in 1948 which is forthcoming in paperback in 2020. A National Endowment for the Arts recipient, her work as appeared in Art Papers and The Forward... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

Foundations of Worldbuilding: Planetary Systems & Space
What effect would having two moons do to the oceans of your world? How do the orbital paths of your planets affect the transit times between them? What factors should you take into account when constructing *your* ideal star system?
Speakers
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →
avatar for Nick Martell

Nick Martell

Nick Martell is the author of THE KINGDOM OF LIARS out May 7th and June 23rd from Gollancz and Saga Press.
avatar for Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

I'm a PhD astronomer who defected from academia to work on weather satellites for NOAA. Ask me about being a scientist. I wrote/produced a series of short, comedic films about asexuality, because I'm asexual and wanted to see aces in action. I recently came out as agender and I got... Read More →
avatar for John Monahan

John Monahan

Science Writer
John Monahan is a writer, and science teacher. He is the author of the non-fiction book They Called Me Mad: Genius, Madness and the Scientists Who Pushed the Outer Limits of Knowledge. His newest book is another non-fiction work, Babbage & Lovelace: The Victorian Computer Wizard and... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

Indie Publishing 102: The Editing Process
Beta-readers, developmental editors, copyeditors, proofreaders... What do I need, where do I find it, and how much will it cost?
Speakers
avatar for Brenda W. Clough

Brenda W. Clough

My latest novel, A MOST DANGEROUS WOMAN, is a neo-Victorian thriller just out from Serial Box. My previous novel, How Like a God, is out in e-format from Book View Cafe. My other works there include Revise the World, a time travel novel, and Speak To Our Desires, a dark detective... Read More →
avatar for Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman is a writer, translator, and anthologist from Brooklyn, NY. His political fantasy novel Eridani’s Crown was published in 2019. Over 120 of his short stories have appeared in Analog, Nature, Strange Horizons, and many other venues. His website is www.alexshvartsm... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →
AS

Ann Stolinsky

Partner, Gemini Wordsmiths
Ann Stolinsky is a Pennsylvania-based word and game expert. She is the founder and owner of Gontza Games, an independent board and card game company. Two of her children's card games are currently in the marketplace: “Pass the Grogger!”; and “Christmas Cards.” Her website... Read More →
avatar for Ian Randal Strock

Ian Randal Strock

Fantastic Books
Ian Randal Strock is the editor and publisher of Fantastic Books (www.FantasticBooks.biz). As a writer, his fiction has appeared in Nature, Analog (from which he won two AnLab Awards), and several recent anthologies. His nonfiction has much wider distribution (including "Ranking the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

Tea With Steven Brust
An informal sit-down with this year's Principal Speaker.
Speakers
SB

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Executive Suite 823 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

Workshop: Pantheon Building
Whether you are designing a new campaign setting for an RPG, or looking to create a world for your fantasy fiction, the creation of a pantheon will be an important part of the process. We'll discuss how the world shapes religion, and how religion shapes the people and culture. A useful guide to help writers organize their thoughts and to craft a believable set of gods and goddesses for their fantasy realms!
Speakers
JA

Julie Ann Dawson

Julie Ann Dawson is an author, editor, publisher, RPG designer, and advocate for writers who may occasionally require the services of someone with access to Force Lightning (and in case it was not obvious, a bit of a geek). In 2002 she started her own publishing company, Bards and... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary, Workshops

11:00am EST

Space Force or Space Farce?
Join us as we discuss the fact and (science) fiction of near-future space military operations.
Speakers
BD

Bruce Dykes

Bruce has been a long time gamer and an SFF reader for even longer. His writing career has actually achieved negative time flow.
avatar for Bob Hranek

Bob Hranek

Systems Engineer, Lockheed Martin
Six years of computer programming started my professional career, followed by 28 years as an intelligence analyst, systems engineer, and program analyst. I’m a vocal Space Exploitation Advocate, read hard-SF whenever I have time, give blood five times a year (200 pints & counting... Read More →
avatar for Paul Levinson

Paul Levinson

author, singer-songwriter
Paul Levinson, PhD, is Professor of Communication & Media Studies at Fordham University in NYC. His science fiction novels include The Consciousness Plague, The Pixel Eye, and the Sierra Water trilogy: The Plot To Save Socrates, Unburning Alexandria, and Chronica. His stories and... Read More →
AL

Andre Lieven

Andre Lieven has been involved with SF conventions for [mumbly, mumbly]years and still loves it as much as in the beginning. His interests start with hard SF from Asimov and Clarke and range out to his old childhood favourites of Star Trek and Thunderbirds. All that lead to connecting... Read More →
CR

Charlie Robertson

How to make a Rock Robertson. Mix two Adventure genomes (predominantly endurance-selected North African with a splash of European), decant in Asia and inoculate through Global Travel, ensuring at least four continents of pathogenic exposure. Introduce a disdain for blind Authority... Read More →
MW

Mark Wolverton

Mark Wolverton is a science journalist, author, and 2016-17 Knight-MIT Science Journalism Fellow. He writes for various national and international publications including WIRED, Nature, Undark, Scientific American, and Air & Space Smithsonian. He has also worked with the NASA Ames... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

11:00am EST

The Chromatics: Concert #2
AstroCappella: A Musical Exploration of the Universe. The Chromatics' mission is to spread science through a cappella and a cappella through science across a wide swath of the known Universe. Multimedia performance!
Speakers
DP

Dr. Padi Boyd

Padi Boyd is the Chief of the Exoplanets and Stellar Astrophysics Laboratory in the Astrophysics Science Division, and the Project Scientist for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) Mission (a NASA Explorer Mission launched in April 2018). She has been at Goddard since... Read More →
JM

John Meyer

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. As the bass-baritone and vocal percussionist, John composes unique ditties that make you think, laugh, and go "huh?" Some have even been performed at the Maryland Renaissance Festival by men in tights. Others are sung... Read More →
MO

Michelle Orhan

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Michelle is a singer and a teacher. Her background in vocal performance means she teaches us a thing or two at every rehearsal. And her ability to deal with middle-schoolers means she has no trouble with the Chromies... Read More →
SR

Scott Rohrbach

A tenor-baritone, Scott was the first new Chromatic in 11 years, bringing another scientific mind to the group. He has a high energy groove, and a high frequency voice, but enjoys the occasional ballad when things get a little too excited. He's been writing original astronomy songs... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →
KS

Karen Smale

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Karen sings tenor, alto and mezzo, and writes songs about the Sun and planets, as well as the occasional cautionary tale of gridlock. She also designs most of the group's cover art.

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Special Events

12:00pm EST

Concert: Amy Fass
A half-hour filk concert.
Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 12:30pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

12:00pm EST

Who Framed Roger Rabbit: 30th Anniversary
Join us as we remember the film that broke all the rules and set the benchmark for future movies. What made it so groundbreaking? Does it still hold up today?
Speakers
DK

Daniel Kimmel

Daniel M. Kimmel is the 2018 recipient of the Skylark Award from the New England Science Ficion Association. A veteran film critic, he was a Hugo finalist for "Jar Jar Binks Must Die." He is the author of a number of short stories, as well as Compton Crook finalist for "Shh! It's... Read More →
RR

Ray Ridenour

I'm a long time fan (since 1966) and artist. At conventions I've exhibited paintings, drawings and stained glass windows. I've acted and sang in fan-musicals, been on many panels and have also moderated quite a few. Outside of fandom, I've created commercial displays for department... Read More →
RR

Rebecca Robare

Dr. Rebecca Robare has a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience and has worked as a college professor, camp counselor, science writer, library book-shelver, dishwasher, brain wave recorder, and cognitive simulation builder, and statistical analyst. She currently works as a research analyst... Read More →
MA

Michael A. Ventrella

Although primarily known as "that guy who predicted the Hodor plot," Michael A. Ventrella would rather be known for his humorous novels like "Big Stick," "Bloodsuckers: A Vampire Runs for President" and "The Axes of Evil." He edits the "Tales from Fortannis"anthologies as well as... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

12:00pm EST

Workshop: Make & Take Polymer Clay Sculptures [Family Friendly]
Craft your own creatures with this self-drying clay!
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Art Show (Grand Ballroom C) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

12:00pm EST

Autographs: The Chromatics
Speakers
DP

Dr. Padi Boyd

Padi Boyd is the Chief of the Exoplanets and Stellar Astrophysics Laboratory in the Astrophysics Science Division, and the Project Scientist for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) Mission (a NASA Explorer Mission launched in April 2018). She has been at Goddard since... Read More →
JM

John Meyer

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. As the bass-baritone and vocal percussionist, John composes unique ditties that make you think, laugh, and go "huh?" Some have even been performed at the Maryland Renaissance Festival by men in tights. Others are sung... Read More →
MO

Michelle Orhan

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Michelle is a singer and a teacher. Her background in vocal performance means she teaches us a thing or two at every rehearsal. And her ability to deal with middle-schoolers means she has no trouble with the Chromies... Read More →
SR

Scott Rohrbach

A tenor-baritone, Scott was the first new Chromatic in 11 years, bringing another scientific mind to the group. He has a high energy groove, and a high frequency voice, but enjoys the occasional ballad when things get a little too excited. He's been writing original astronomy songs... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →
KS

Karen Smale

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Karen sings tenor, alto and mezzo, and writes songs about the Sun and planets, as well as the occasional cautionary tale of gridlock. She also designs most of the group's cover art.

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

12:00pm EST

For Panelists, by Panelists
Tips on how to answer moderator questions, audience questions, not monopolize the panel, get a word in edgewise, combat imposter syndrome, and other aspects of handling your appearance as a Panel Presenter at cons.
Speakers
PG

Phil Giunta

Phil Giunta’s novels include the paranormal mysteries Testing the Prisoner, By Your Side, and Like Mother, Like Daughters. His short stories appear in such anthologies as A Plague of Shadows, Beach Nights, Beach Pulp, the ReDeus mythology series, and the Middle of Eternity speculative... Read More →
JH

Joseph Haughey

Merchant, ebay
Joseph "Cosplay Joe" Haughey is a musician in the geek performing arts, specializing in songs related to science fiction and anime (Japanese animation). He also does panels ranging from Anime Music Videos and anime opening and closing themes to various sci-fi topics like Back to the... Read More →
LK

Lawrence Kramer

Dr. Lawrence Kramer has had a lifelong interest in science, sparked at a young age by avidly reading science fiction. He worked in the pharmaceutical industry followed by a career as a programmer analyst for a Fortune 500 financial company. However, the lure of science was too great... Read More →
avatar for Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman was the Editor-in-chief of Space and Time Magazine for 12 years. She is a short fiction author whose recent publications include, "My Dear Wa'ats" (2018, Baker Street Irregulars II: The Game's Afoot, Ventrella & Maberry, eds.), "The Lady of the Lakes" (2018, Camelot... Read More →
avatar for Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson, a Philadelphia area freelance writer and editor, is the editor of Wild Violet (wildviolet.net), a weekly online literary magazine. She has published a poetry chapbook, "Picturebook of the Martyrs," an essay collection, "The Art of Life," and an ebook, "Dedicated Idiocy... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

12:00pm EST

Workshop: All-Ages Game Design
A hands-on, family-friendly workshop. Learn how to put together a game of your own design with your family or friends!
Speakers
BD

Bruce Dykes

Bruce has been a long time gamer and an SFF reader for even longer. His writing career has actually achieved negative time flow.
CK

Chris Kreuter

Chris is a sci-fi author best known for the kid's novel The Intergalactic Adventures of the Rainy River Bees. The sequel, Revenge on the Rainy River Bees! comes out November 2019. He's also designed & published multiple board games as co-owner of Masquerade Games. By day, Chris is... Read More →
AS

Ann Stolinsky

Partner, Gemini Wordsmiths
Ann Stolinsky is a Pennsylvania-based word and game expert. She is the founder and owner of Gontza Games, an independent board and card game company. Two of her children's card games are currently in the marketplace: “Pass the Grogger!”; and “Christmas Cards.” Her website... Read More →
VS

Virginia Swann

Long time Sci-Fi fan and annual participant of Philcon since 2000. Big time gamer girl, she and her husband John now manage the gaming suite. Ginny is also an actress and singer.

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming, Workshops

12:00pm EST

A Creative Apocalypse
What creative and original - but scientifically plausible - ways are left for storytellers to destroy the world?
Speakers
VC

Vikki Ciaffone

Vikki Ciaffone has been reading and writing since a freakishly young age. She is a freelance editor and writer, and has worked for Spencer Hill Press. She knows a little bit about an astonishing number of largely irrelevant things. In her spare time, she plays craps with the Fates... Read More →
avatar for Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook is a fan, an author and an artist, generally in that order but not always. Eric's most recent work is being published in the Defending the Future series from E-spec books. He has been part of the team running the Watch The Skies science fiction and fantasy group and... Read More →
KH

Karen Heuler

Karen Heuler’s stories have appeared in over 100 literary and speculative magazines and anthologies, from Conjunctions to Clarkesworld to Weird Tales, as well as a number of Best Of anthologies. She has published five novels and three story collections with university and small... Read More →
JP

Joshua Palmatier

Joshua Palmatier is a fantasy writer with a PhD in mathematics. He is the author of nine epic fantasy novel, his most recent being the conclusion of the "Ley" series, REAPING THE AURORA, from DAW Books. He is also the founder and an editor for the small press Zombies Need Brains... Read More →
JS

Jim Stratton

Jim Stratton is a chameleon. By day, he is a mild-mannered government lawyer, and lives with his wife and children in southern Delaware. But he's been an avid fan of speculative fiction all his life, and began writing genre fiction 20+ years ago. In recent years he's been forging... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

12:00pm EST

Indie Publishing 103: The Publishing Process
From cover design to distribution options, where do you take your masterpiece?
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Panelist, eSpec Books
Award-winning author Danielle Ackley-McPhail has worked both sides of the publishing industry for longer than she cares to admit. In 2014 she joined forces with husband Mike McPhail and friend Greg Schauer to form her own publishing house, eSpec Books (www.especbooks.com). Her published... Read More →
avatar for Ken Altabef

Ken Altabef

An active SFWA member, Ken's short fiction has appeared in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Interzone, Daily Science Fiction, Intergalactic Medicine Show, BuzzyMag, Abyss & Apex, Perihelion and others. He is the author of eleven published novels with two more on the way... Read More →
avatar for Paul Levinson

Paul Levinson

author, singer-songwriter
Paul Levinson, PhD, is Professor of Communication & Media Studies at Fordham University in NYC. His science fiction novels include The Consciousness Plague, The Pixel Eye, and the Sierra Water trilogy: The Plot To Save Socrates, Unburning Alexandria, and Chronica. His stories and... Read More →
avatar for Tee Morris

Tee Morris

Author
Tee Morris has been writing science fiction, fantasy, horror, and non-fiction for over a decade. His first novel, MOREVI: The Chronicles of Rafe & Askana, became the first novel to be podcast in its entirety, ushering in a new age for authors — podcasting. He went on with... Read More →
AR

Aaron Rosenberg

Aaron Rosenberg is an award-winning novelist, children's book author, and game designer. His novels include the best-selling DuckBob SF comedy series, the Relicant Chronicles epic fantasy series, the Dread Remora space-opera series, and, with David Niall Wilson, the O.C.L.T. occult... Read More →
avatar for Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman is a writer, translator, and anthologist from Brooklyn, NY. His political fantasy novel Eridani’s Crown was published in 2019. Over 120 of his short stories have appeared in Analog, Nature, Strange Horizons, and many other venues. His website is www.alexshvartsm... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

12:00pm EST

Remembering Gardner Dozois
Remembering Gardner Dozois -- A gathering to honor Philadelphia’s own Gardner Dozois. In addition to his 15 Hugos as Best Editor, he was two-time Nebula winner for short fiction as a writer, the founder and editor of the Year's Best Science Fiction anthologies, and editor of Isaac Asimov's Science Fiction Magazine for 20 years. Come join us in celebrating his life.
Speakers
avatar for David M. Axler

David M. Axler

Dave Axler is a long-time convention fan who's been a Philcon regular since the early seventies, when he came to his first Philcon to interview GoH John Brunner for local radio station WXPN. In the years since then, he has written an M.A. thesis entitled "'Fandom Is A Way of Life... Read More →
SD

Samuel Delany

With four Nebula Awards and two Hugo Awards behind him, Samuel R. Delany became a Grandmaster of Science Fiction in 2014. His novels include BABEL-17, THE EINSTEIN INTERSECTION, NOVA, DHALGREN, STARS IN MY POCKET LIKE GRAINS OF SAND, the four-volume Return to Nevèrÿon, and his most... Read More →
TK

Tess Kissinger

30 years ago at Philcon 1980 - Tess Kissinger met Bob Walters, and the rest, as they say, is history. Actually, paleontology. Tess and Bob are two of the most famous dinosaur artists in the world. Recently they were chosen by the US National Park Service to paint the 80 foot long... Read More →
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →
MS

Michael Swanwick

Michael Swanwick has received the Hugo Nebula, Theodore Sturgeon, World Fantasy, and Grand Roscon Awards and His work has been translated and published throughout the world. His novels include CHASING THE PHOENIX, DANCING WITH BEARS, STATIONS OF THE TIDE, JACK FAUST, BONES OF THE... Read More →
RW

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

12:00pm EST

Giant Monster Appreciation Panel
What exactly is our fascination with dinosaurs, Godzilla, and other creatures that could step on us without noticing?
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
DC

D.L. Carter

D.L. Carter was decanted from her incubation pod in the outback of Australia many decades ago. This terrifying event was closely followed by shrieks of "there, there it goes. Hit it with a brick!" These valiant attempts to correct the existence of D.L. were, unfortunately, unsuccessful... Read More →
TF

Tony Finan

Tony suffers from photophobia caused by prolonged servitude in the Philcon film room, which he had run for over 15 years. He is an avid fan of the science fiction and horror film genres, specializing in British, Asian, and Zombie films. When not watching movies, he can be found behind... Read More →
NK

Nicholas Kaufmann

Nicholas Kaufmann is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated, Thriller Award-nominated, Shirley Jackson Award-nominated, and Dragon Award-nominated author of nine books in the horror, fantasy, and adventure genres, including CHASING THE DRAGON (ChiZine Publications), DYING IS MY BUSINESS... Read More →
EP

Eric Parmer

Eric Parmer has a degree in English Literature with a focus on all the weird stuff that English Literature really shouldn't cover. Russian Fairy Tales. Vampires. Slavic Sci-Fi. You know. The classics.
SV

Steve Vertlieb

An award-winning writer, film historian, critic, archivist, musicologist and poet, Steve Vertlieb has been writing about motion pictures and symphonic film music in a variety of books, magazines, journals, tabloids, and on the internet, since 1969 and has been profiled in "Who's Who... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

12:00pm EST

Readings: Saturday Noon
Speakers
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

12:00pm EST

The Depictions of Technology in Star Wars and Star Trek
How do these universes differ in the ways they depict their tech? How did the history of each world affect the invention and uses of medical devices, weaponry, methods of transportation, and robotic beings?
Speakers
JA

John Ashmead

John Ashmead has a BA in physics from Harvard, summa cum laude, and a masters in physics from Princeton. For several years he was an assistant editor for Asimov's SF Magazine. Since then he has worked as a software and database developer, working in the medical, legal, advertising... Read More →
GH

Glenn Hauman

Glenn Hauman has been called a "young Turk of publishing" by the New York Observer and a "Silicon Alley Veteran" by Crain's New York Business. He has been a featured speaker on the future of publishing at numerous industry trade shows. He's missed out on being an Internet millionaire... Read More →
IH

Inge Heyer

Inge Heyer, Ph.D., has spent decades developing a unique expertise in astronomy communications across a variety of settings, including college classrooms, K-12 schools, informal educational settings, professional scientific journalism, and science fiction venues. Born and raised in... Read More →
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →
JW

Jeff Warner

Jeff Warner is a professor of autodidactism, stand-up philosopher, not-recently-published writer, former president of the Science Fiction Forum, freelance punslinger, and as a 'ninja-smof' a co-founder of a hat trick of sf conventions. "Geek, Nerd, AND Dork? I'm a Triple Threat... Read More →
JW

Jay Wile

Dr. Jay L. Wile holds an earned Ph.D. from the University of Rochester in nuclear chemistry and a B.S. in chemistry from the same institution. He has taught at both the university and high school levels and has won several awards for excellence in teaching. He has also published more... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

12:30pm EST

Concert: Ian Hanley
A half-hour filk concert.
Speakers
IH

Ian Hanley

Ian Hanley, known as "Taliesin" in the Society for Creative Anachronism,has been a professional storyteller for longer than he's willing to admit in public. His specialty is improvisational storytelling, with his tales ranging from side-splittingly funny to thoughtfully dark and scary... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:30pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

12:30pm EST

Workshop: Beaded Cabochons - $10 fee [90 minutes]
A beading workshop that teaches the technique of attaching a flat-back cabochon to fabric by beading around it with peyote beading. It's helpful to have a little sewing experience, but beginners also welcome. The kit has everything you need: beads, thread, choice of cabochons, needles and fabric.
Speakers
LA

Lisa Ashton

Lisa Ashton is a SF/Fantasy/Historical costumer living in Harpers Ferry, WV. At Philcon 2010 she and Sandy Swank won BIS with "The Letter", a re-creation of the famous Civil War letter written by Sullivan Ballou to his wife Sarah early in the war. She has also done a humorous but... Read More →
avatar for Carol Salemi

Carol Salemi

Carol has worked over 40 years in many aspects of costuming from creating/fabricating to teaching, judging, and masquerade directing. She competes in the master division and received this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Costumers Guild. She is a medical... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 12:30pm - 2:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay, Workshops

1:00pm EST

Social Progress at 24 Frames per Second
Many animations have been ahead of the social curve. Tezuka's Bagi protested animal experimentation in 1984. More recently, Golden Kamuy features an Ainu main character, while Code Geass depicts Japanese people being treated like Koreans have been treated in Japan. This panel will delve into the ways in which anime has challenged the social norms of Japan from the past to the present.
Speakers
avatar for Walter Amos

Walter Amos

das Kriegsministerium
Walter first developed an interest in Japanese animation with the premiere of "Star Blazers" in 1979 on WTAF TV 29 in Philadelphia, after already succumbing to science fiction in general. He attempted to catch a movie version of this series at Philcon 1984, but missed it and instead... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
RF

Robert Fenelon

Robert Fenelon walked into a room party at Philcon 1981 and was introduced to the wonderful world of VHS tape trading, Japanese pen-pals and Anime. RF spent the next four decades sharing that experience by writing, editing and publishing about anime, and showing anime at convention... Read More →
BJ

Ben Jorritsma

Ben's interests include Anime, STEM, promoting DIY/Maker culture, and promoting agricultural awareness.

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

1:00pm EST

How Not to Die From Exposure
Artists are always being asked to work for exposure. When is working for free (or “on-spec”) a bad idea? When is it a good idea? How do you know the difference?
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Hertel

Lisa Hertel

Artist, The Cogitation Zone
Lisa Hertel is an artist from a long line of artists. She specializes in clay and watercolors, but dabbles in many other media; her works are often the products of this cross-pollinization. Her recent materials include encaustics (wax painting) and alcohol inks. In her spare time... Read More →
HH

Heidi Hooper

Heidi Hooper is the dryer lint Lady -- Believe it or Not! Her unusual art is featured in Ripley's Believe it or Not Museums all over the world and in their books. She's also a two time winner of the prestigious Niche award, as has been the Artist Guest of Honor at Albacon and Heliosphere... Read More →
TK

Tess Kissinger

30 years ago at Philcon 1980 - Tess Kissinger met Bob Walters, and the rest, as they say, is history. Actually, paleontology. Tess and Bob are two of the most famous dinosaur artists in the world. Recently they were chosen by the US National Park Service to paint the 80 foot long... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Lilly

Nathan Lilly

N.E. Lilly is the editor of SpaceWesterns.com, Everyday Weirdness, and Thaumatrope. He develops websites for Science Fiction professionals and organizations through GreenTentacles. He has designed artwork and illustrations for a variety of media and processes, such as stage productions... Read More →
MM
RW

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

1:00pm EST

Autographs: Saturday 1pm
Speakers
MB

Martin Berman-Gorvine

Martin Berman-Gorvine is the author of seven science fiction novels, including the Sidewise Award-winning The Severed Wing (as Martin Gidron) (Livingston Press, 2002); 36 (Livingston Press, 2012); Seven Against Mars (Wildside Press, 2013); Save the Dragons! (Wildside Press... Read More →
MS

Muriel Stockdale

Muriel Stockdale’s successful 35-year career in entertainment as a designer, director, filmmaker and artist honed her ability and desire to tell her stories. She has for her entire life been fascinated by myths, spirituality and science fiction. She began avidly reading and comparing... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

1:00pm EST

Indie Publishing 104: Marketing
Indie writers talk about their marketing successes and fails. How do you set realistic expectations for the response to your efforts?
Speakers
avatar for Ken Altabef

Ken Altabef

An active SFWA member, Ken's short fiction has appeared in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Interzone, Daily Science Fiction, Intergalactic Medicine Show, BuzzyMag, Abyss & Apex, Perihelion and others. He is the author of eleven published novels with two more on the way... Read More →
RC

Russ Colchamiro

Russ Colchamiro is the author of the rollicking space opera, Crossline, the zany SF/F backpacking comedy series Finders Keepers, Genius de Milo, and Astropalooza, editor of the SF anthology Love, Murder & Mayhem, and co-author of Murder in Montague Falls, all with Crazy 8 Press. Russ... Read More →
avatar for Paul Levinson

Paul Levinson

author, singer-songwriter
Paul Levinson, PhD, is Professor of Communication & Media Studies at Fordham University in NYC. His science fiction novels include The Consciousness Plague, The Pixel Eye, and the Sierra Water trilogy: The Plot To Save Socrates, Unburning Alexandria, and Chronica. His stories and... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

1:00pm EST

Presentation by Special Guest Marshall Ryan Maresca
Speakers
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

1:00pm EST

Recipes for Character Creation
How do you design characters that your audience will find not only three-dimensional, but *memorable*? What will adding a dash of this or that personality trait do to your audience's opinion of them?
Speakers
avatar for Philippa Ballantine

Philippa Ballantine

Author
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Philippa Ballantine has always had her head in a book. At the age of thirteen she began writing fantasy stories for herself. Her first professional sale was in 1997, and since then she has gone on to produce novel length fiction. In 2006 she became... Read More →
SB
VC

Vikki Ciaffone

Vikki Ciaffone has been reading and writing since a freakishly young age. She is a freelance editor and writer, and has worked for Spencer Hill Press. She knows a little bit about an astonishing number of largely irrelevant things. In her spare time, she plays craps with the Fates... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →
MA

Michael A. Ventrella

Although primarily known as "that guy who predicted the Hodor plot," Michael A. Ventrella would rather be known for his humorous novels like "Big Stick," "Bloodsuckers: A Vampire Runs for President" and "The Axes of Evil." He edits the "Tales from Fortannis"anthologies as well as... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

1:00pm EST

Your Android Lover's Brain Was Hacked, and Just Like That, They're Gone Forever
Realistically writing PTSD induced by speculative scenarios.
Speakers
LG

Leigh Grossman

Leigh Ronald Grossman is a writer, college lecturer, editor, and occasional reviewer. He teaches in the English Department at the University of Connecticut and is the president of Swordsmith Productions, a book development and book production company. Grossman is the author of fifteen... Read More →
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →
JS

Jay Smith

Jay Smith is an award-winning audio dramatist, author, and podcast producer. He is the creator and writer of the online zombie horror series HG World, pulp adventure serial Hidden Harbor Mysteries, and the upcoming weird western series The Road to Renascence. His books include the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

1:00pm EST

The Orville
Expected to be just another silly spoof, The Orville turned out to be a show that takes on serious issues in a lighthearted manner. How has The Orville been making its mark independent of the franchises that inspired it?
Speakers
avatar for Ty Drago

Ty Drago

Editor, Publisher, Allegory
Since 1998, Ty has served as publisher and managing editor of ALLEGORY, an e-zine publishing quality science fiction, fantasy, and horror from new and established authors worldwide. He is also the author of nine published novels, has appeared in two anthologies, and has sold numerous... Read More →
OH

Orenthal Hawkins

Orenthal V. Hawkins is an IT professional and a self-described Super Geek and Ultra Nerd. Or is that Ultra Geek and Super Nerd? Anyway... He is also adorkable, geektastic & delightfully nerdy. He is also 100% original and not a reboot. From B-movies to anime, from Old Time Radio to... Read More →
CK

Chris Kreuter

Chris is a sci-fi author best known for the kid's novel The Intergalactic Adventures of the Rainy River Bees. The sequel, Revenge on the Rainy River Bees! comes out November 2019. He's also designed & published multiple board games as co-owner of Masquerade Games. By day, Chris is... Read More →
AL

Andre Lieven

Andre Lieven has been involved with SF conventions for [mumbly, mumbly]years and still loves it as much as in the beginning. His interests start with hard SF from Asimov and Clarke and range out to his old childhood favourites of Star Trek and Thunderbirds. All that lead to connecting... Read More →
avatar for James Prego

James Prego

Adjunct Professor of Biology
Dr. Prego is a naturopathic doctor from Long Island and a past recipient of the NYANP's Physician of the Year award. He is an adjunct professor of Biology at Molly College, NCC, and LIU. A longtime fan of science fiction, he enjoys discussing xenobiology, health in space, fusions... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

1:00pm EST

Readings: Saturday 1pm
Speakers
avatar for Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner is the author of three published novels and dozens of short stories, former publisher and editor in chief of the oldest extant small press science fiction magazine, SPACE AND TIME. He is also a copy editor, New York City tour guide, story teller, sound technician, and... Read More →
avatar for Lawrence M. Schoen

Lawrence M. Schoen

Author, Paper Golem LLC
Lawrence M. Schoen holds a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology, is a past Campbell, Hugo, and Nebula, nominee, twice won the Cóyotl award for best novel, founded the Klingon Language Institute, and occasionally does work as a hypnotherapist specializing in authors’ issues. His science... Read More →
SS

Susan Shwartz

Back after several years, Susan Shwartz's most recent books are a reprint of WHITE WING (with Shariann Lewitt , writing as Gordon Kendall) and THE SUBVERSIVE JOB HUNGER'S HAND BOOK. She is also responsible for HOSTILE TAKEOVER (Tor) and the VULCAN SOUL trilogy (with the late Josepha... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

1:00pm EST

Next Generation Weather Satellites
How much warning did you get before the last blizzard? The next generation JPSS-1 satellite recently joined NOAA’s Earth Orbiting System- come learn how the advanced instrumentation is fueling new science, allowing us to track hurricanes at night, predict river flooding from melted ice, and warn us about other impending hazards.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

I'm a PhD astronomer who defected from academia to work on weather satellites for NOAA. Ask me about being a scientist. I wrote/produced a series of short, comedic films about asexuality, because I'm asexual and wanted to see aces in action. I recently came out as agender and I got... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

1:00pm EST

Workshop: Creative Drawing [90 Minutes]
Join artist Charlene D’Alessio for a drawing workshop. Materials and references will be provided.
Speakers
CT

Charlene Taylor D'Alessio

Charlene Taylor D'Alessio has been illustrating in the Fantasy and Science Fiction genre for over 30 years. She is known for her exquisite painted Ties, whimsical, colorful and humorous fantasy paintings of Cats, Dragons, Owls, & Hamsters and miniature astronomical pieces. A graduate... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 2:30pm EST
Art Show (Grand Ballroom C) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art, Workshops

1:00pm EST

Family Friendly Open Gaming
Speakers
VS

Virginia Swann

Long time Sci-Fi fan and annual participant of Philcon since 2000. Big time gamer girl, she and her husband John now manage the gaming suite. Ginny is also an actress and singer.

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

1:15pm EST

Concert: Cosplay Joe
A half-hour concert.
Speakers
JH

Joseph Haughey

Merchant, ebay
Joseph "Cosplay Joe" Haughey is a musician in the geek performing arts, specializing in songs related to science fiction and anime (Japanese animation). He also does panels ranging from Anime Music Videos and anime opening and closing themes to various sci-fi topics like Back to the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 1:15pm - 1:45pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

2:00pm EST

Shoujo Manga that Breaks the Mold
Shoujo manga is rife with tropes and clichés, yet it is the genre that introduced many to anime and manga. And while we enjoyed it, we’ve picked some of the best series that defy the genre while still being the light-hearted romantic comedies that we love.
Speakers
LB

Lauren Bellamy

Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →
avatar for Lyndsey Bellamy

Lyndsey Bellamy

Panel Geeks
Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

2:00pm EST

Presentation by Artist Guest of Honor Gary Lippincott
Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

2:00pm EST

Autographs: Saturday 2pm
Speakers
avatar for Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner

Gordon Linzner is the author of three published novels and dozens of short stories, former publisher and editor in chief of the oldest extant small press science fiction magazine, SPACE AND TIME. He is also a copy editor, New York City tour guide, story teller, sound technician, and... Read More →
avatar for Lawrence M. Schoen

Lawrence M. Schoen

Author, Paper Golem LLC
Lawrence M. Schoen holds a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology, is a past Campbell, Hugo, and Nebula, nominee, twice won the Cóyotl award for best novel, founded the Klingon Language Institute, and occasionally does work as a hypnotherapist specializing in authors’ issues. His science... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

2:00pm EST

Entering Your First Masquerade?
What to expect from signing up, to receiving your first award.
Speakers
avatar for Byron Connell

Byron Connell

Interim Director, Masquerade Runners SIG
Byron Connell likes to help run masquerades rather than entering them. Entering once a decade is about right! Since being part of the Torcon III best-in-show entry, when he enters, he does so in the Master division. He is a member of the Sick Pups (NJ-NY Costumers Guild), the Armed... Read More →
HH

Heidi Hooper

Heidi Hooper is the dryer lint Lady -- Believe it or Not! Her unusual art is featured in Ripley's Believe it or Not Museums all over the world and in their books. She's also a two time winner of the prestigious Niche award, as has been the Artist Guest of Honor at Albacon and Heliosphere... Read More →
DK

Diane Kovalcin

Diane Kovalcin is a long-time costumer, competing in both Science Fiction and Historical masquerades, a quilter and fan fiction writer. She also loves Star Wars and the BBC tv show Merlin - just ask her (or better yet, don't ask as she won't shut up about it).
avatar for Pam Smith

Pam Smith

Dame Dahlia Cosplay
Dame Dahlia is a cosplayer from Central Pennsylvania and is an active member of the Central Pennsylvania Heroes Coalition and the Philadelphia Avengers which are cosplay groups that does community service to local children’s hospitals and other organizations in Pennsylvania. I am... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

2:00pm EST

Knitting Circle and Open Textiles Crafting
Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Executive Suite 823 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

2:00pm EST

Theme Circle: Strange Places
Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

2:00pm EST

How to Plot a Murder
A guide for horror and mystery writers. (Not murderers!)
Speakers
avatar for Brenda W. Clough

Brenda W. Clough

My latest novel, A MOST DANGEROUS WOMAN, is a neo-Victorian thriller just out from Serial Box. My previous novel, How Like a God, is out in e-format from Book View Cafe. My other works there include Revise the World, a time travel novel, and Speak To Our Desires, a dark detective... Read More →
RC

Russ Colchamiro

Russ Colchamiro is the author of the rollicking space opera, Crossline, the zany SF/F backpacking comedy series Finders Keepers, Genius de Milo, and Astropalooza, editor of the SF anthology Love, Murder & Mayhem, and co-author of Murder in Montague Falls, all with Crazy 8 Press. Russ... Read More →
EC

Elizabeth Crowens

Elizabeth Crowens is the pen name for a veteran writer who is a regular contributor to Blackgate.com. A 15-year veteran of the film industry in Hollywood, a member of Mystery Writers of Americam the Horror Writers Association, Sisters in Crime and Broad Universe. A blackbelt in martial... Read More →
avatar for Erin M. Hartshorn

Erin M. Hartshorn

SFWA Vice President
Erin M. Hartshorn did her graduate work in fish olfaction (and yes, she’s heard all of the jokes about how fish smell) before turning to words to make her living. Her freelance business makes others’ words look good through copyediting, proofreading, and indexing. Her fiction... Read More →
NK

Nicholas Kaufmann

Nicholas Kaufmann is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated, Thriller Award-nominated, Shirley Jackson Award-nominated, and Dragon Award-nominated author of nine books in the horror, fantasy, and adventure genres, including CHASING THE DRAGON (ChiZine Publications), DYING IS MY BUSINESS... Read More →
RR

Roberta Rogow

Roberta Rogow has been involved in Fandom since 1973 as a Filker, Costumer, Fanzine writer and editor, and Artist (specializing in needlework). She has written historical mysteries, and Alternate History, but her most recent book, Lorr and Disorder, is a noir-ish mystery, "V.I. Warshawski... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

2:00pm EST

The Robot "Other"
Creating empathy for humanity's not-quite-human creations was groundbreaking with Frankenstein, but now, stories told from the perspective of A.I. are common enough that they've become their own sub-genre. How do these stories affect how we perceive ourselves? Have we reached the point where we have more empathy for robots than we do for other humans?
Speakers
avatar for Neil Clarke

Neil Clarke

Editor, Clarkesworld Magazine
Neil Clarke (neil-clarke.com) is the editor of the Hugo and World Fantasy Award-winning Clarkesworld Magazine and several anthologies, including the Best Science Fiction of the Year series. He has been a finalist for the Hugo Award for Best Editor (Short Form) eight times, won the... Read More →
BW

Barna William Donovan

Barna William Donovan is a professor of communication and media studies at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey. His first novel, CONFIRMATION: INVESTIGATIONS OF THE UNEXPLAINED, was published by World Castle Publishing in July 2018. He is also the author of three... Read More →
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →
avatar for David Walton

David Walton

David Walton is an award-winning science fiction author, a space industry engineer, and the father of eight children. His latest book, THREE LAWS LETHAL (Pyr, 2019), takes on the future of the self-driving car industry, with its legal and social ramifications, while exploring the... Read More →
JW

Joan Wendland

Joan Wendland is a game designer, an engineer, and the owner of Blood and Cardstock Games. Joan has designed card games, live action role playing games, and honest to God war games for the US government. In addition she has published two novels- Backstage: a novel of secret agendas... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

2:00pm EST

King Kong
A discussion of the making and production of the original 1933 fantasy adventure classic and its lasting cultural significance, as well as its countless remakes, sequels, and reboots. Join film scholar Steve Vertlieb and writer Richard Stout for this loving remembrance of, perhaps, the greatest "Monster" film of all time.
Speakers
SD

Samuel Delany

With four Nebula Awards and two Hugo Awards behind him, Samuel R. Delany became a Grandmaster of Science Fiction in 2014. His novels include BABEL-17, THE EINSTEIN INTERSECTION, NOVA, DHALGREN, STARS IN MY POCKET LIKE GRAINS OF SAND, the four-volume Return to Nevèrÿon, and his most... Read More →
avatar for Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino Studios
Carl Paolino is a veteran of the entertainment industry. As producer, director, screenwriter, and production designer, his credits include feature films, television series, music videos, Broadway shows, and television commercials. His animated productions include: MTV’s Celebrity... Read More →
RS

Richard Stout

Richard premiered his trilogy of kid spy movies featuring James Blond, Agent Uh-Oh 7, at Philcon, beginning with 1993's LEARNER'S PERMIT TO KILL. His horror makeup/special FX workshop "Monsters, Aliens, and Spirit Gum" has been popular both here and at I-Con. He and his wife Kathryn... Read More →
SV

Steve Vertlieb

An award-winning writer, film historian, critic, archivist, musicologist and poet, Steve Vertlieb has been writing about motion pictures and symphonic film music in a variety of books, magazines, journals, tabloids, and on the internet, since 1969 and has been profiled in "Who's Who... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

2:00pm EST

Marvel's Next Phase
In the last year Marvel made us laugh with Ant-Man and The Wasp, cry with Guardians 2, and flat-out blew us away with Black Panther. And after spending the last ten years building up the teams, themes, and story elements necessary for Infinity War, the film appeared to tear the whole universe apart. So...what happens next?
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →
GH

Glenn Hauman

Glenn Hauman has been called a "young Turk of publishing" by the New York Observer and a "Silicon Alley Veteran" by Crain's New York Business. He has been a featured speaker on the future of publishing at numerous industry trade shows. He's missed out on being an Internet millionaire... Read More →
VJ

Victoria Janssen

Victoria Janssen reviews for Publishers Weekly. Her most recent novel is The Duke and the Pirate Queen, fantasy erotica from Harlequin (2010). Her major historical research interest is World War One, which is reflected in some of her fiction. Her second novel, The Moonlight Mistress... Read More →
TK

Tauney Kennedy

Living Historian, Co-Owner of Big Bear Trading Company, ad hoc Troupe Manager for Steam-Funk Studios, and Office Manager at The Nerdy Duo Productions. Recruited in April of 2013, Ms.Kennedy is a veteran performance director for Steam-Funk Studios, having co-written and produced portions... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya is a freelance editor, writer, and content manager. She currently has been doing editing work for manga publisher Seven Seas Entertainment. She has also worked at the SoHo ArtHouse digital art gallery in New York City, where she organized the successful AniMiniCon SoHo... Read More →
JS

Jay Smith

Jay Smith is an award-winning audio dramatist, author, and podcast producer. He is the creator and writer of the online zombie horror series HG World, pulp adventure serial Hidden Harbor Mysteries, and the upcoming weird western series The Road to Renascence. His books include the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

2:00pm EST

Readings: Saturday 2pm
Speakers
avatar for Sally Wiener Grotta

Sally Wiener Grotta

Author
Sally Wiener Grotta’s books include The Winter Boy (a Locus Magazine’s 2015 Recommended Read) and Jo Joe (a Jewish Book Council Network book). Her story "One Widow's Healing" was a 2019 Health Odyssey winner.Her hundreds of stories, columns and essays have appeared in scores of... Read More →
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →
JP

Joshua Palmatier

Joshua Palmatier is a fantasy writer with a PhD in mathematics. He is the author of nine epic fantasy novel, his most recent being the conclusion of the "Ley" series, REAPING THE AURORA, from DAW Books. He is also the founder and an editor for the small press Zombies Need Brains... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

2:00pm EST

The Moon, The Stars, and Mars: The Ethics of Colonizing Space
How do we expect to change the galactic landscape in an ethical way, and what can we do as humans to decrease our impact on it? What does it mean to establish human settlements on worlds not our own? A discussion of space travel, space colonies, and morality.
Speakers
JA

John Ashmead

John Ashmead has a BA in physics from Harvard, summa cum laude, and a masters in physics from Princeton. For several years he was an assistant editor for Asimov's SF Magazine. Since then he has worked as a software and database developer, working in the medical, legal, advertising... Read More →
TC

Tobias Cabral

Tobias Cabral is a clinical psychologist, whose private practice (Serenity Psychology Services) is located in Langhorne, PA. He completed his undergraduate work at New York University and his Doctoral studies at Widener University's Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology. A lifetime... Read More →
JH

Joseph Haughey

Merchant, ebay
Joseph "Cosplay Joe" Haughey is a musician in the geek performing arts, specializing in songs related to science fiction and anime (Japanese animation). He also does panels ranging from Anime Music Videos and anime opening and closing themes to various sci-fi topics like Back to the... Read More →
IH

Inge Heyer

Inge Heyer, Ph.D., has spent decades developing a unique expertise in astronomy communications across a variety of settings, including college classrooms, K-12 schools, informal educational settings, professional scientific journalism, and science fiction venues. Born and raised in... Read More →
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

2:30pm EST

Participate in a Synthetic Biology Experiment! [3 hours]
Working in teams of two, each team will conduct a full synbio experiment using a safe, publicly available lab strain of E. coli, working under the guidance of the scientists in charge of the session, and following a simple protocol. Also, as time permits, a live demo of an open source BioCAD software tool will be given, showing how biological circuit design can be done.
Saturday November 17, 2018 2:30pm - 5:30pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology, Workshops

3:00pm EST

Anime for Sci-Fi Fans
Do you keep walking by the "anime track", but aren't really sure about this anime stuff? Are you curious, but don't know where to start? This the panel for you! In this panel, we'll discuss some great series and movies for beginners to the anime, where you can watch them, and ways they may be both different and similar to traditional U.S. fare. Bring your favorite movie or genre, and we'll try find a show for you!
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
RF

Robert Fenelon

Robert Fenelon walked into a room party at Philcon 1981 and was introduced to the wonderful world of VHS tape trading, Japanese pen-pals and Anime. RF spent the next four decades sharing that experience by writing, editing and publishing about anime, and showing anime at convention... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya is a freelance editor, writer, and content manager. She currently has been doing editing work for manga publisher Seven Seas Entertainment. She has also worked at the SoHo ArtHouse digital art gallery in New York City, where she organized the successful AniMiniCon SoHo... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →
KS

Kristyn Souder

Kristyn is happy to return to Philcon to present her thoughts on anime, gaming, fantasy, sci-fi, con-running, and all things geek. In addition to heading the Anime Track at Philcon, she is the External Communications Director for Zenkaikon, a local anime and sci-fi convention. Her... Read More →
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

3:00pm EST

Getting Started with Digital Art
What are the best art applications? Platforms? Where do I learn to use them? Is a digital pen and tablet needed?
Speakers
AB

Alan Beck

Alan F. Beck has been an artist, designer and illustrator for over 30 years doing work for many major corporations including book covers and magazine illustrations. His work has been exhibited in art shows and Science Fiction/Fantasy conventions all across the country. He has won... Read More →
avatar for Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook is a fan, an author and an artist, generally in that order but not always. Eric's most recent work is being published in the Defending the Future series from E-spec books. He has been part of the team running the Watch The Skies science fiction and fantasy group and... Read More →
avatar for Nathan Lilly

Nathan Lilly

N.E. Lilly is the editor of SpaceWesterns.com, Everyday Weirdness, and Thaumatrope. He develops websites for Science Fiction professionals and organizations through GreenTentacles. He has designed artwork and illustrations for a variety of media and processes, such as stage productions... Read More →
MM
RR

Ray Ridenour

I'm a long time fan (since 1966) and artist. At conventions I've exhibited paintings, drawings and stained glass windows. I've acted and sang in fan-musicals, been on many panels and have also moderated quite a few. Outside of fandom, I've created commercial displays for department... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

3:00pm EST

Workshop: How to Draw Dinosaurs! [Family Friendly]
Learn the basics of drawing dinos from a pair of pros!
Speakers
TK

Tess Kissinger

30 years ago at Philcon 1980 - Tess Kissinger met Bob Walters, and the rest, as they say, is history. Actually, paleontology. Tess and Bob are two of the most famous dinosaur artists in the world. Recently they were chosen by the US National Park Service to paint the 80 foot long... Read More →
RW

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Art Show (Grand Ballroom C) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art, The Family Friendly Options!

3:00pm EST

Autographs: Saturday 3pm
Speakers
IH

Inge Heyer

Inge Heyer, Ph.D., has spent decades developing a unique expertise in astronomy communications across a variety of settings, including college classrooms, K-12 schools, informal educational settings, professional scientific journalism, and science fiction venues. Born and raised in... Read More →
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

3:00pm EST

Haunt & Horror Costuming
What goes into the costuming and make-up used in Haunted Houses?
Speakers
AH

Anastasia Holt

Anastasia has been sewing and costuming since she was 10 years old and started participating in convention since 2006. Anastasia started in recreation costumes and has expanded to original costumes. Anastasia has been participating in Masquerades since she was 14 years old and has... Read More →
avatar for Carol Salemi

Carol Salemi

Carol has worked over 40 years in many aspects of costuming from creating/fabricating to teaching, judging, and masquerade directing. She competes in the master division and received this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Costumers Guild. She is a medical... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

3:00pm EST

Finances for Freelancers
Advice and suggestions for creative professionals—writers and artists—on management and organization of their finances, personal planning for the future (savings, insurance, bequests), and whatever else may be of concern to those “working without a net” of corporate benefits.
Speakers
RJ

Russell J. Handelman

Russell Handelman has written both fiction and nonfiction. He lives next to a swamp in Connecticut.
avatar for Erin M. Hartshorn

Erin M. Hartshorn

SFWA Vice President
Erin M. Hartshorn did her graduate work in fish olfaction (and yes, she’s heard all of the jokes about how fish smell) before turning to words to make her living. Her freelance business makes others’ words look good through copyediting, proofreading, and indexing. Her fiction... Read More →
SS

Susan Shwartz

Back after several years, Susan Shwartz's most recent books are a reprint of WHITE WING (with Shariann Lewitt , writing as Gordon Kendall) and THE SUBVERSIVE JOB HUNGER'S HAND BOOK. She is also responsible for HOSTILE TAKEOVER (Tor) and the VULCAN SOUL trilogy (with the late Josepha... Read More →
avatar for Ian Randal Strock

Ian Randal Strock

Fantastic Books
Ian Randal Strock is the editor and publisher of Fantastic Books (www.FantasticBooks.biz). As a writer, his fiction has appeared in Nature, Analog (from which he won two AnLab Awards), and several recent anthologies. His nonfiction has much wider distribution (including "Ranking the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

3:00pm EST

Filk Theme Circle: Road Trips
Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

3:00pm EST

Don't Open That Airlock!
You want your audience drawn into the tension of suspenseful moments, not muttering, "Why didn't they just pack spare batteries?" during them. How do you develop plot devices that won't leave readers questioning your characters' intelligence?
Speakers
VC

Vikki Ciaffone

Vikki Ciaffone has been reading and writing since a freakishly young age. She is a freelance editor and writer, and has worked for Spencer Hill Press. She knows a little bit about an astonishing number of largely irrelevant things. In her spare time, she plays craps with the Fates... Read More →
avatar for Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio is best known as the author of the Fractured Time Trilogy; the Space Frontiers series; the adult horror series Night Creeps I and II and his recent new Pain series with Princess Pain and the new sequel, Queen of Pain. Michael worked for several years as a nuclear... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

I'm a PhD astronomer who defected from academia to work on weather satellites for NOAA. Ask me about being a scientist. I wrote/produced a series of short, comedic films about asexuality, because I'm asexual and wanted to see aces in action. I recently came out as agender and I got... Read More →
AR

Aaron Rosenberg

Aaron Rosenberg is an award-winning novelist, children's book author, and game designer. His novels include the best-selling DuckBob SF comedy series, the Relicant Chronicles epic fantasy series, the Dread Remora space-opera series, and, with David Niall Wilson, the O.C.L.T. occult... Read More →
MS

Michael Swanwick

Michael Swanwick has received the Hugo Nebula, Theodore Sturgeon, World Fantasy, and Grand Roscon Awards and His work has been translated and published throughout the world. His novels include CHASING THE PHOENIX, DANCING WITH BEARS, STATIONS OF THE TIDE, JACK FAUST, BONES OF THE... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

3:00pm EST

Presentation by Principal Speaker Steven Brust
Speakers
SB

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

3:00pm EST

What Scares Us Now?
A lot of imagery and scenarios that used to terrify people are viewed as laughable by more recent generations. Are there horrors that are truly timeless? How do you invoke them into the mind of the modern-day reader?
Speakers
MB

Martin Berman-Gorvine

Martin Berman-Gorvine is the author of seven science fiction novels, including the Sidewise Award-winning The Severed Wing (as Martin Gidron) (Livingston Press, 2002); 36 (Livingston Press, 2012); Seven Against Mars (Wildside Press, 2013); Save the Dragons! (Wildside Press... Read More →
NK

Nicholas Kaufmann

Nicholas Kaufmann is the Bram Stoker Award-nominated, Thriller Award-nominated, Shirley Jackson Award-nominated, and Dragon Award-nominated author of nine books in the horror, fantasy, and adventure genres, including CHASING THE DRAGON (ChiZine Publications), DYING IS MY BUSINESS... Read More →
DL

Dina Leacock

Diane Arrelle, the pen name of South Jersey writer Dina Leacock, has sold more than 250 short stories and has three published books including Just A Drop In The Cup, a collection of short-short stories and her newest collection of horror stories, Seasons On The Dark Side, . She... Read More →
avatar for Tee Morris

Tee Morris

Author
Tee Morris has been writing science fiction, fantasy, horror, and non-fiction for over a decade. His first novel, MOREVI: The Chronicles of Rafe & Askana, became the first novel to be podcast in its entirety, ushering in a new age for authors — podcasting. He went on with... Read More →
avatar for Karalyn Morris

Karalyn Morris

K. L. Morris has been published in The Flexible Persona, Body Parts, and Shimmer. She has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and was an honorable mention for Ellen Datlow's Best of the Year Horror Anthology. She works as a freelance academic editor, copyeditor, developmental editor... Read More →
MS

Mark Singer

Jack of all trades but master of none, Mark is a long-time SF fan, gamer (board and rpg), autodidact, and voracious reader of history.

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

3:00pm EST

The Big Score: The Soundtrack of Science Fiction
We always know when Darth Vader is on the way, when James Bond is coming to the rescue, or when you’re entering the city limits of Bon Temps, Louisiana. Music forms an integral part of television and cinema, yet is rarely examined or celebrated. Or are there fans out there that collect soundtracks as some collect cards and comics? What is some of the best music from the genre? Which themes are true signatures?
Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

3:00pm EST

Readings: Saturday 3pm
Speakers
avatar for Philippa Ballantine

Philippa Ballantine

Author
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Philippa Ballantine has always had her head in a book. At the age of thirteen she began writing fantasy stories for herself. Her first professional sale was in 1997, and since then she has gone on to produce novel length fiction. In 2006 she became... Read More →
CK

Chris Kreuter

Chris is a sci-fi author best known for the kid's novel The Intergalactic Adventures of the Rainy River Bees. The sequel, Revenge on the Rainy River Bees! comes out November 2019. He's also designed & published multiple board games as co-owner of Masquerade Games. By day, Chris is... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 3:00pm - 4:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

4:00pm EST

Concert: Kathy Sands
Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 4:30pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

4:00pm EST

Inuyasha: Feminism in a Feudal Fairy Tale (90 min)
Rumiko Takahashi’s hit series is beloved around the world for blending action, fantasy, and romance. Let’s take a closer look at the unique cast of women that fight demons, protect their loved ones, stand up for what’s right, and sometimes are as evil as Naraku himself.
Speakers
LB

Lauren Bellamy

Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →
avatar for Lyndsey Bellamy

Lyndsey Bellamy

Panel Geeks
Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

4:00pm EST

Workshop: DIY "Animation" [Family Friendly]
Go old-school and short-form in experiments with thaumatrope, zoetrope and flipbook. Color the pre-made strips or draw your own on templates!
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Art Show (Grand Ballroom C) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art, The Family Friendly Options!

4:00pm EST

Autographs: Saturday 4pm [GoHs]
Speakers
SB

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

4:00pm EST

2018 Hugo Nominee Review
A look back at the nominees for the 2018 Hugo Awards, as well as a discussion of other works we feel were equally deserving.
Speakers
TD
TS

Terry Steiner Sisk Graybill

Long-time moderator of the PSFS Hugo Review Panel (shhh – 38 years, but who’s counting), Terry was raised from earliest childhood on a steady diet of mythology, fairy tales and fantasy, moving into science fiction along the way. She taught science fiction and fantasy for six years... Read More →
avatar for Miriam Seidel

Miriam Seidel

Writer
Miriam Seidel's novel, The Speed of Clouds (New Door Books), takes place in the world of sci-fi fandom. She also wrote the libretto for Violet Fire, an opera about Nikola Tesla, performed in Belgrade, New York, and Philadelphia. She’s written for the Philadelphia Inquirer and other... Read More →
avatar for David Walton

David Walton

David Walton is an award-winning science fiction author, a space industry engineer, and the father of eight children. His latest book, THREE LAWS LETHAL (Pyr, 2019), takes on the future of the self-driving car industry, with its legal and social ramifications, while exploring the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

4:00pm EST

The City
As a theme and an image in science fiction. Think of Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, New York 2140, and Metropolis. How does the nature of a city inform the stories set within it?
Speakers
avatar for Ty Drago

Ty Drago

Editor, Publisher, Allegory
Since 1998, Ty has served as publisher and managing editor of ALLEGORY, an e-zine publishing quality science fiction, fantasy, and horror from new and established authors worldwide. He is also the author of nine published novels, has appeared in two anthologies, and has sold numerous... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya is a freelance editor, writer, and content manager. She currently has been doing editing work for manga publisher Seven Seas Entertainment. She has also worked at the SoHo ArtHouse digital art gallery in New York City, where she organized the successful AniMiniCon SoHo... Read More →
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →
avatar for Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino Studios
Carl Paolino is a veteran of the entertainment industry. As producer, director, screenwriter, and production designer, his credits include feature films, television series, music videos, Broadway shows, and television commercials. His animated productions include: MTV’s Celebrity... Read More →
EP

Eric Parmer

Eric Parmer has a degree in English Literature with a focus on all the weird stuff that English Literature really shouldn't cover. Russian Fairy Tales. Vampires. Slavic Sci-Fi. You know. The classics.
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

4:00pm EST

Black Panther: Where Do We Go From Here?
The movie blew all of us- and the box office expectations- out of the water. What can we expect to see next in Wakanda? How will the events of Infinity War affect their previous status quo?
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →
OH

Orenthal Hawkins

Orenthal V. Hawkins is an IT professional and a self-described Super Geek and Ultra Nerd. Or is that Ultra Geek and Super Nerd? Anyway... He is also adorkable, geektastic & delightfully nerdy. He is also 100% original and not a reboot. From B-movies to anime, from Old Time Radio to... Read More →
CR

Charlie Robertson

How to make a Rock Robertson. Mix two Adventure genomes (predominantly endurance-selected North African with a splash of European), decant in Asia and inoculate through Global Travel, ensuring at least four continents of pathogenic exposure. Introduce a disdain for blind Authority... Read More →
avatar for F. M. Yates

F. M. Yates

Appraiser, Atomic City Comics
If you've bought comics on South St. in Philadelphia in the past 30 (?) years, then you've probably bought them from Michael. As owner of Atomic City Comics, on South St. (The coolest street in Philadelphia), Michael has been the local Comic Book pusher for decades. Writer and performer... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

4:00pm EST

The 50th anniversary of 2001: A Space Odyssey
"Fifty years ago, Stanley Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke set out to make a new kind of sci-fi. How does their future look now that it’s the past?" This question was asked in a recent article in The New Yorker, and now we're asking you.
Speakers
BB

Brandon Budda

Brandon Budda is a local Philadelphia-based podcast host and science fiction aficionado. He has a background in English and Philosophy. He is also the co-founder of Claytemple media and co-host of the Gene Wolfe Literary Podcast and Eldersign: A Weird Fiction Podcast. Brandon is also... Read More →
SD

Samuel Delany

With four Nebula Awards and two Hugo Awards behind him, Samuel R. Delany became a Grandmaster of Science Fiction in 2014. His novels include BABEL-17, THE EINSTEIN INTERSECTION, NOVA, DHALGREN, STARS IN MY POCKET LIKE GRAINS OF SAND, the four-volume Return to Nevèrÿon, and his most... Read More →
DK

Daniel Kimmel

Daniel M. Kimmel is the 2018 recipient of the Skylark Award from the New England Science Ficion Association. A veteran film critic, he was a Hugo finalist for "Jar Jar Binks Must Die." He is the author of a number of short stories, as well as Compton Crook finalist for "Shh! It's... Read More →
SV

Steve Vertlieb

An award-winning writer, film historian, critic, archivist, musicologist and poet, Steve Vertlieb has been writing about motion pictures and symphonic film music in a variety of books, magazines, journals, tabloids, and on the internet, since 1969 and has been profiled in "Who's Who... Read More →
JW

Jeff Warner

Jeff Warner is a professor of autodidactism, stand-up philosopher, not-recently-published writer, former president of the Science Fiction Forum, freelance punslinger, and as a 'ninja-smof' a co-founder of a hat trick of sf conventions. "Geek, Nerd, AND Dork? I'm a Triple Threat... Read More →
avatar for Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson, a Philadelphia area freelance writer and editor, is the editor of Wild Violet (wildviolet.net), a weekly online literary magazine. She has published a poetry chapbook, "Picturebook of the Martyrs," an essay collection, "The Art of Life," and an ebook, "Dedicated Idiocy... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

4:00pm EST

Broad Universe Rapid-Fire Readings
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Panelist, eSpec Books
Award-winning author Danielle Ackley-McPhail has worked both sides of the publishing industry for longer than she cares to admit. In 2014 she joined forces with husband Mike McPhail and friend Greg Schauer to form her own publishing house, eSpec Books (www.especbooks.com). Her published... Read More →
EC

Elizabeth Crowens

Elizabeth Crowens is the pen name for a veteran writer who is a regular contributor to Blackgate.com. A 15-year veteran of the film industry in Hollywood, a member of Mystery Writers of Americam the Horror Writers Association, Sisters in Crime and Broad Universe. A blackbelt in martial... Read More →
avatar for April Grey

April Grey

April Grey's short stories can be found in various anthologies, both in print and on-line. Her collections of short stories, The Fairy Cake Bake Shoppe, and I'll Love You Forever are also available through Amazon. She is the editor of Hell's Garden: Bad, Mad and Ghostly Gardeners... Read More →
avatar for Sally Wiener Grotta

Sally Wiener Grotta

Author
Sally Wiener Grotta’s books include The Winter Boy (a Locus Magazine’s 2015 Recommended Read) and Jo Joe (a Jewish Book Council Network book). Her story "One Widow's Healing" was a 2019 Health Odyssey winner.Her hundreds of stories, columns and essays have appeared in scores of... Read More →
avatar for Elektra Hammond

Elektra Hammond

writer/editor, Until Midnight
Elektra Hammond emulates her multi-sided idol Buckaroo Banzai by going in several directions at once. She’s been involved in publishing since the 1990s—now she writes, concocts anthologies & edits science fiction for various and sundry. When not freelancing or appearing at science... Read More →
RR

Roberta Rogow

Roberta Rogow has been involved in Fandom since 1973 as a Filker, Costumer, Fanzine writer and editor, and Artist (specializing in needlework). She has written historical mysteries, and Alternate History, but her most recent book, Lorr and Disorder, is a noir-ish mystery, "V.I. Warshawski... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

4:00pm EST

Exoplanets and the TESS Mission
Worlds beyond our own solar system were once just science fiction, but today we know there are more planets than stars in our galaxy. How did that happen? Explore strange new worlds with Dr. Padi Boyd and the Chromatics, as they take you on a voyage of discovery with space science missions like the newly launched Transiting Exoplanet Survey satellite (TESS).
Speakers
DP

Dr. Padi Boyd

Padi Boyd is the Chief of the Exoplanets and Stellar Astrophysics Laboratory in the Astrophysics Science Division, and the Project Scientist for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) Mission (a NASA Explorer Mission launched in April 2018). She has been at Goddard since... Read More →
JM

John Meyer

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. As the bass-baritone and vocal percussionist, John composes unique ditties that make you think, laugh, and go "huh?" Some have even been performed at the Maryland Renaissance Festival by men in tights. Others are sung... Read More →
MO

Michelle Orhan

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Michelle is a singer and a teacher. Her background in vocal performance means she teaches us a thing or two at every rehearsal. And her ability to deal with middle-schoolers means she has no trouble with the Chromies... Read More →
SR

Scott Rohrbach

A tenor-baritone, Scott was the first new Chromatic in 11 years, bringing another scientific mind to the group. He has a high energy groove, and a high frequency voice, but enjoys the occasional ballad when things get a little too excited. He's been writing original astronomy songs... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →
KS

Karen Smale

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Karen sings tenor, alto and mezzo, and writes songs about the Sun and planets, as well as the occasional cautionary tale of gridlock. She also designs most of the group's cover art.

Saturday November 17, 2018 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

4:30pm EST

Concert: Marc Glasser
A half-hour concert.
Saturday November 17, 2018 4:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

4:30pm EST

Masquerade Rehearsals [90 min]
Saturday November 17, 2018 4:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Special Events

5:00pm EST

Demo: Watercolors with Alan Beck
Alan F. Beck will create a painting using watercolors.
Speakers
AB

Alan Beck

Alan F. Beck has been an artist, designer and illustrator for over 30 years doing work for many major corporations including book covers and magazine illustrations. His work has been exhibited in art shows and Science Fiction/Fantasy conventions all across the country. He has won... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Art Show (Grand Ballroom C) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

5:00pm EST

Autographs: Saturday 5pm
Speakers
CK

Chris Kreuter

Chris is a sci-fi author best known for the kid's novel The Intergalactic Adventures of the Rainy River Bees. The sequel, Revenge on the Rainy River Bees! comes out November 2019. He's also designed & published multiple board games as co-owner of Masquerade Games. By day, Chris is... Read More →
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

5:00pm EST

Crowdfunding for Fun and...What Do You Mean We LOST Money???
Just how does a "Kickstarter" work? Will Patreon's recent changes impact your ability to attract and keep Patrons? Is it worth setting up a KoFi account?
Speakers
avatar for Philippa Ballantine

Philippa Ballantine

Author
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Philippa Ballantine has always had her head in a book. At the age of thirteen she began writing fantasy stories for herself. Her first professional sale was in 1997, and since then she has gone on to produce novel length fiction. In 2006 she became... Read More →
GH

Glenn Hauman

Glenn Hauman has been called a "young Turk of publishing" by the New York Observer and a "Silicon Alley Veteran" by Crain's New York Business. He has been a featured speaker on the future of publishing at numerous industry trade shows. He's missed out on being an Internet millionaire... Read More →
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →
AP

Alana Phelan

Alana Phelan is an author, librarian, editor, event planner, advice columnist, and lifelong nerd. Along with Kevin Patterson, she has written For Hire: Operator, the first in a series of novels set in a universe that centers characters of color, queerness, and alternative relationship... Read More →
avatar for Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman is a writer, translator, and anthologist from Brooklyn, NY. His political fantasy novel Eridani’s Crown was published in 2019. Over 120 of his short stories have appeared in Analog, Nature, Strange Horizons, and many other venues. His website is www.alexshvartsm... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

5:00pm EST

Memorial Filk Circle
Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

5:00pm EST

Book Launch: by Phil Giunta and Steve Wilson
Speakers
PG

Phil Giunta

Phil Giunta’s novels include the paranormal mysteries Testing the Prisoner, By Your Side, and Like Mother, Like Daughters. His short stories appear in such anthologies as A Plague of Shadows, Beach Nights, Beach Pulp, the ReDeus mythology series, and the Middle of Eternity speculative... Read More →
SW

Steve Wilson

STEVEN H. WILSON is the creator of the Mark Time and Parsec Award-winning podcast series The Arbiter Chronicles, as well as the author of two novels spawned by the series Taken Liberty and Unfriendly Persuasion. He is also the author of Peace Lord of the Red Planet and three short... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Executive Suite 823 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

5:00pm EST

Point of View in Fiction
Who your narrator is, how the story is perceived, and where the “camera” is can make all the difference in the success or failure in a story. What stories have used these elements in successful ways?
Speakers
SB
DL

Dina Leacock

Diane Arrelle, the pen name of South Jersey writer Dina Leacock, has sold more than 250 short stories and has three published books including Just A Drop In The Cup, a collection of short-short stories and her newest collection of horror stories, Seasons On The Dark Side, . She... Read More →
BM

Bernie Mojzes

Had things worked out differently, Bernie Mojzes might have been a song & dance man. Fortunately, he can't dance, so instead, he writes and edits. His fiction has appeared in "Betwixt Magazine," "Daily Science Fiction," and "Crossed Genres," among others. He co-edited and published... Read More →
MS

Muriel Stockdale

Muriel Stockdale’s successful 35-year career in entertainment as a designer, director, filmmaker and artist honed her ability and desire to tell her stories. She has for her entire life been fascinated by myths, spirituality and science fiction. She began avidly reading and comparing... Read More →
JS

Jim Stratton

Jim Stratton is a chameleon. By day, he is a mild-mannered government lawyer, and lives with his wife and children in southern Delaware. But he's been an avid fan of speculative fiction all his life, and began writing genre fiction 20+ years ago. In recent years he's been forging... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

5:00pm EST

What Does a "Strong Female Character" Actually Look Like?
...and how do I write one??
Speakers
DC

D.L. Carter

D.L. Carter was decanted from her incubation pod in the outback of Australia many decades ago. This terrifying event was closely followed by shrieks of "there, there it goes. Hit it with a brick!" These valiant attempts to correct the existence of D.L. were, unfortunately, unsuccessful... Read More →
EC

Elizabeth Crowens

Elizabeth Crowens is the pen name for a veteran writer who is a regular contributor to Blackgate.com. A 15-year veteran of the film industry in Hollywood, a member of Mystery Writers of Americam the Horror Writers Association, Sisters in Crime and Broad Universe. A blackbelt in martial... Read More →
avatar for Sally Wiener Grotta

Sally Wiener Grotta

Author
Sally Wiener Grotta’s books include The Winter Boy (a Locus Magazine’s 2015 Recommended Read) and Jo Joe (a Jewish Book Council Network book). Her story "One Widow's Healing" was a 2019 Health Odyssey winner.Her hundreds of stories, columns and essays have appeared in scores of... Read More →
avatar for Erin M. Hartshorn

Erin M. Hartshorn

SFWA Vice President
Erin M. Hartshorn did her graduate work in fish olfaction (and yes, she’s heard all of the jokes about how fish smell) before turning to words to make her living. Her freelance business makes others’ words look good through copyediting, proofreading, and indexing. Her fiction... Read More →
KH

Karen Heuler

Karen Heuler’s stories have appeared in over 100 literary and speculative magazines and anthologies, from Conjunctions to Clarkesworld to Weird Tales, as well as a number of Best Of anthologies. She has published five novels and three story collections with university and small... Read More →
JW

Joan Wendland

Joan Wendland is a game designer, an engineer, and the owner of Blood and Cardstock Games. Joan has designed card games, live action role playing games, and honest to God war games for the US government. In addition she has published two novels- Backstage: a novel of secret agendas... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

5:00pm EST

Politics and Deep Space Nine
DS9 was singular in the Trekverse for its dramatic and often troubling depictions of interstellar politics, from people of honor and ideals frequently being forced to question or compromise their beliefs, to those who make no pretense of using any ends to justify their means. For the 25th anniversary of its premier, a discussion of the series and its eerie prescience regarding real-world political conflicts and issues since its airing.
Speakers
JA

Jonathan Alexandratos

Jonathan Alexandratos writes about action figures. They edited the first collection of academic essays on action figures, titled POINTS OF ARTICULATION: ESSAYS IN ACTION FIGURE STUDIES, which is out now from McFarland. Their award-winning plays have also been produced internationally... Read More →
RJ

Russell J. Handelman

Russell Handelman has written both fiction and nonfiction. He lives next to a swamp in Connecticut.
OH

Orenthal Hawkins

Orenthal V. Hawkins is an IT professional and a self-described Super Geek and Ultra Nerd. Or is that Ultra Geek and Super Nerd? Anyway... He is also adorkable, geektastic & delightfully nerdy. He is also 100% original and not a reboot. From B-movies to anime, from Old Time Radio to... Read More →
DK

Daniel Kimmel

Daniel M. Kimmel is the 2018 recipient of the Skylark Award from the New England Science Ficion Association. A veteran film critic, he was a Hugo finalist for "Jar Jar Binks Must Die." He is the author of a number of short stories, as well as Compton Crook finalist for "Shh! It's... Read More →
RR

Rebecca Robare

Dr. Rebecca Robare has a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience and has worked as a college professor, camp counselor, science writer, library book-shelver, dishwasher, brain wave recorder, and cognitive simulation builder, and statistical analyst. She currently works as a research analyst... Read More →
SS

Susan Shwartz

Back after several years, Susan Shwartz's most recent books are a reprint of WHITE WING (with Shariann Lewitt , writing as Gordon Kendall) and THE SUBVERSIVE JOB HUNGER'S HAND BOOK. She is also responsible for HOSTILE TAKEOVER (Tor) and the VULCAN SOUL trilogy (with the late Josepha... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

5:00pm EST

Readings: Saturday 5pm
Speakers
LG

Leigh Grossman

Leigh Ronald Grossman is a writer, college lecturer, editor, and occasional reviewer. He teaches in the English Department at the University of Connecticut and is the president of Swordsmith Productions, a book development and book production company. Grossman is the author of fifteen... Read More →
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →
MA

Michael A. Ventrella

Although primarily known as "that guy who predicted the Hodor plot," Michael A. Ventrella would rather be known for his humorous novels like "Big Stick," "Bloodsuckers: A Vampire Runs for President" and "The Axes of Evil." He edits the "Tales from Fortannis"anthologies as well as... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

5:00pm EST

Mars or Bust! The Theory and Practice of Travel to Mars
Why do we want to go? How do we get there? How do we live there? What might we find? What are the dangers: radiation, low gravity, dust, our fellow humans? Is there life on Mars now? Was there once? and did our own evolution actually start on Mars?
Speakers
JA

John Ashmead

John Ashmead has a BA in physics from Harvard, summa cum laude, and a masters in physics from Princeton. For several years he was an assistant editor for Asimov's SF Magazine. Since then he has worked as a software and database developer, working in the medical, legal, advertising... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

5:30pm EST

Screening: My Hero Academia (ep 1)
[TV-14] It’s an exciting age of heroes, where most people develop supernatural abilities known as Quirks. Bright-eyed kids like Izuku Midoriya — Deku for short — dream of the day they become champions of the people. There’s just one little problem standing in Deku’s way. In a world full of heroes, he’s Quirkless.
Speakers
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Saturday November 17, 2018 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

6:00pm EST

Screening: My Hero Academia (eps 2-3)
[TV-14] It’s an exciting age of heroes, where most people develop supernatural abilities known as Quirks. Bright-eyed kids like Izuku Midoriya — Deku for short — dream of the day they become champions of the people. There’s just one little problem standing in Deku’s way. In a world full of heroes, he’s Quirkless.
Speakers
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

6:00pm EST

Workshop: Drawing The Costumed Figure
This is a life drawing workshop. We will draw models with minimal instruction provided. Volunteer models welcome.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Hertel

Lisa Hertel

Artist, The Cogitation Zone
Lisa Hertel is an artist from a long line of artists. She specializes in clay and watercolors, but dabbles in many other media; her works are often the products of this cross-pollinization. Her recent materials include encaustics (wax painting) and alcohol inks. In her spare time... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art, Workshops

6:00pm EST

Autographs: Saturday 6pm
Speakers
LG

Leigh Grossman

Leigh Ronald Grossman is a writer, college lecturer, editor, and occasional reviewer. He teaches in the English Department at the University of Connecticut and is the president of Swordsmith Productions, a book development and book production company. Grossman is the author of fifteen... Read More →
MA

Michael A. Ventrella

Although primarily known as "that guy who predicted the Hodor plot," Michael A. Ventrella would rather be known for his humorous novels like "Big Stick," "Bloodsuckers: A Vampire Runs for President" and "The Axes of Evil." He edits the "Tales from Fortannis"anthologies as well as... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

6:00pm EST

Open Filk
Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

6:00pm EST

Intentionally Retro SF
Allan Steele has recently published a Captain Future novel. Can SF, which deliberately evokes older science fiction, still be regarded as speculative, or is it an alternate universe fantasy?
Speakers
A

Aaron

Attendee
Aaron Feldman is a mechanical engineer, longtime fan, gamer, fic writer, vidder, and amateur post-modernist.
RJ

Russell J. Handelman

Russell Handelman has written both fiction and nonfiction. He lives next to a swamp in Connecticut.
DS

Darrell Schweitzer

Darrell Schweitzer's books include three novels, THE WHITE ISLE, THE SHATTERED GODDESS, THE MASK OF THE SORCERER, and THE DRAGON HOUSE, plus nine short-story collections, the most recent of which is a volume of Lovecraftian stories, AWAITING STRANGE GODS, published by Fedogan & Bremer... Read More →
JS

Jay Smith

Jay Smith is an award-winning audio dramatist, author, and podcast producer. He is the creator and writer of the online zombie horror series HG World, pulp adventure serial Hidden Harbor Mysteries, and the upcoming weird western series The Road to Renascence. His books include the... Read More →
JW

Jeff Warner

Jeff Warner is a professor of autodidactism, stand-up philosopher, not-recently-published writer, former president of the Science Fiction Forum, freelance punslinger, and as a 'ninja-smof' a co-founder of a hat trick of sf conventions. "Geek, Nerd, AND Dork? I'm a Triple Threat... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

6:00pm EST

Our Fascination with Mars
Since the days of H.G. Wells, Mars has figured greatly in SF. How have SF views of Mars changed as our understanding of the planet grew. Why does it still matter today?
Speakers
JA

John Ashmead

John Ashmead has a BA in physics from Harvard, summa cum laude, and a masters in physics from Princeton. For several years he was an assistant editor for Asimov's SF Magazine. Since then he has worked as a software and database developer, working in the medical, legal, advertising... Read More →
TC

Tobias Cabral

Tobias Cabral is a clinical psychologist, whose private practice (Serenity Psychology Services) is located in Langhorne, PA. He completed his undergraduate work at New York University and his Doctoral studies at Widener University's Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology. A lifetime... Read More →
avatar for Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio is best known as the author of the Fractured Time Trilogy; the Space Frontiers series; the adult horror series Night Creeps I and II and his recent new Pain series with Princess Pain and the new sequel, Queen of Pain. Michael worked for several years as a nuclear... Read More →
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →
avatar for Paul Levinson

Paul Levinson

author, singer-songwriter
Paul Levinson, PhD, is Professor of Communication & Media Studies at Fordham University in NYC. His science fiction novels include The Consciousness Plague, The Pixel Eye, and the Sierra Water trilogy: The Plot To Save Socrates, Unburning Alexandria, and Chronica. His stories and... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

6:00pm EST

Workshop: Creating Settings for Fiction and RPGs
This panel will provide both writers and RPG designers with an easy-to-follow process for creating a functional and believable setting. Whether you are creating a small town or an entire galaxy, you'll find the methodology outlined in this workshop helpful to keeping your world building on the right track.
Speakers
JA

Julie Ann Dawson

Julie Ann Dawson is an author, editor, publisher, RPG designer, and advocate for writers who may occasionally require the services of someone with access to Force Lightning (and in case it was not obvious, a bit of a geek). In 2002 she started her own publishing company, Bards and... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

6:00pm EST

Writing Intimate Relationships in the Era of They
Our notions about romance, sex, and marriage are evolving to keep pace with a world that continues to gain a more nuanced understanding of gender identity, the spectrum of human sexuality, and what a family is. Does your writing reflect an inclusive future, or one where the standards of 1950's America have remained the norm?
Speakers
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →
avatar for Linda J. Lee

Linda J. Lee

Director, Instructional Design; Lecturer, Folklore, University of Pennsylvania
Linda J. Lee is the Director of Instructional Design at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where she helps faculty use technology in their courses. She also teaches online and face-to-face Folklore courses for Penn’s School of Liberal and Professional Studies... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

I'm a PhD astronomer who defected from academia to work on weather satellites for NOAA. Ask me about being a scientist. I wrote/produced a series of short, comedic films about asexuality, because I'm asexual and wanted to see aces in action. I recently came out as agender and I got... Read More →
KP

Kevin Patterson

Kevin Patterson is an active member of the Philadelphia polyamory community. He's been practicing ethical nonmonogamy since August of 2002 after opening up a relationship that eventually became his marriage. In April of 2015, Kevin was inspired to start Poly Role Models, an interview... Read More →
AP

Alana Phelan

Alana Phelan is an author, librarian, editor, event planner, advice columnist, and lifelong nerd. Along with Kevin Patterson, she has written For Hire: Operator, the first in a series of novels set in a universe that centers characters of color, queerness, and alternative relationship... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

6:00pm EST

Readings: Saturday 6pm
Speakers
avatar for Ken Altabef

Ken Altabef

An active SFWA member, Ken's short fiction has appeared in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Interzone, Daily Science Fiction, Intergalactic Medicine Show, BuzzyMag, Abyss & Apex, Perihelion and others. He is the author of eleven published novels with two more on the way... Read More →
MB

Martin Berman-Gorvine

Martin Berman-Gorvine is the author of seven science fiction novels, including the Sidewise Award-winning The Severed Wing (as Martin Gidron) (Livingston Press, 2002); 36 (Livingston Press, 2012); Seven Against Mars (Wildside Press, 2013); Save the Dragons! (Wildside Press... Read More →
avatar for John Monahan

John Monahan

Science Writer
John Monahan is a writer, and science teacher. He is the author of the non-fiction book They Called Me Mad: Genius, Madness and the Scientists Who Pushed the Outer Limits of Knowledge. His newest book is another non-fiction work, Babbage & Lovelace: The Victorian Computer Wizard and... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

6:00pm EST

Airships and Arya-Samaj [90 min]
An analysis of tropes in Steampunk and SF such as Multiverse Theory, Clockworks, and Airships and the origins of these concepts in cultures outside of England, with a particular focus on India and Persia.
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 6:00pm - 7:30pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

7:00pm EST

The Hunting of the Snark [30 min]
A dramatized recitation of Lewis Carroll's classic nonsense poem, with different voices for all the speaking characters.
Speakers
AF

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 7:30pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

7:00pm EST

Screening: My Hero Academia (eps 4-5)
[TV-14] It’s an exciting age of heroes, where most people develop supernatural abilities known as Quirks. Bright-eyed kids like Izuku Midoriya — Deku for short — dream of the day they become champions of the people. There’s just one little problem standing in Deku’s way. In a world full of heroes, he’s Quirkless.
Speakers
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

7:00pm EST

Book Blogger Hangout
You don't have to be a book blogger to join us!
Speakers
avatar for Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook is a fan, an author and an artist, generally in that order but not always. Eric's most recent work is being published in the Defending the Future series from E-spec books. He has been part of the team running the Watch The Skies science fiction and fantasy group and... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

7:00pm EST

Open Filk
Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

7:00pm EST

Tabletop DMing 101
Are you an experienced D&D Player but want to run a campaign for the first time? Not sure where to start in running a Tabletop RPG? Join us for the tips and tricks to help you get started.
Speakers
JA

Julie Ann Dawson

Julie Ann Dawson is an author, editor, publisher, RPG designer, and advocate for writers who may occasionally require the services of someone with access to Force Lightning (and in case it was not obvious, a bit of a geek). In 2002 she started her own publishing company, Bards and... Read More →
JH

James Hicks

A founding member of the DC-based panel troupe "Winning The War On Pants", James "Shep" Hicks has presented panels on a variety of topics within the anime fandom.
MR

Michael Ryan

Mike Ryan is a Twitch streamer (https://twitch.tv/toanstation) using playing games a vehicle to talk about games. He has been a fan of science fiction ever since the age of six. His love of the genre has expanded to include tabletop games, video games and anime.
NT

Nathan Thatcher

A new presenter for Philcon's 2017 Anime track.

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

7:00pm EST

Book Launch: by Mike McPhail and Danielle Ackley-McPhail
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Panelist, eSpec Books
Award-winning author Danielle Ackley-McPhail has worked both sides of the publishing industry for longer than she cares to admit. In 2014 she joined forces with husband Mike McPhail and friend Greg Schauer to form her own publishing house, eSpec Books (www.especbooks.com). Her published... Read More →
MM

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Executive Suite 823 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

7:00pm EST

Post-Religious Science Fiction
Is SF inherently materialistic? While there are sf stories written from a religious viewpoint, they are in a distinct minority. What does this tell us about the inherent nature of SF and the freedom to speculate vs the rigidity of dogma?
Speakers
MM

Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen

Marilyn "Mattie" Brahen has published fiction in magazines and anthologies in America and Great Britain. Her 2003 first novel, CLAIMING HER, and its 2009 sequel, REFORMING HELL, received good reviews. A third mystery novel, BABY BOY BLUE, was published in 2011 and resold to Linford... Read More →
LK

Lawrence Kramer

Dr. Lawrence Kramer has had a lifelong interest in science, sparked at a young age by avidly reading science fiction. He worked in the pharmaceutical industry followed by a career as a programmer analyst for a Fortune 500 financial company. However, the lure of science was too great... Read More →
CK

Chris Kreuter

Chris is a sci-fi author best known for the kid's novel The Intergalactic Adventures of the Rainy River Bees. The sequel, Revenge on the Rainy River Bees! comes out November 2019. He's also designed & published multiple board games as co-owner of Masquerade Games. By day, Chris is... Read More →
MS

Mark Singer

Jack of all trades but master of none, Mark is a long-time SF fan, gamer (board and rpg), autodidact, and voracious reader of history.
avatar for David Walton

David Walton

David Walton is an award-winning science fiction author, a space industry engineer, and the father of eight children. His latest book, THREE LAWS LETHAL (Pyr, 2019), takes on the future of the self-driving car industry, with its legal and social ramifications, while exploring the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

7:00pm EST

Star Trek: Discovery
There's a lot to unpack in this one...where to begin? What does Michael represent in the growth of how female characters have been depicted in the franchise? Did they portray PTSD realistically? How effective was their commentary on contemporary issues? Given how many characters died overall, did the death of "minority" characters still feel like fridging?
Speakers
JA

Jonathan Alexandratos

Jonathan Alexandratos writes about action figures. They edited the first collection of academic essays on action figures, titled POINTS OF ARTICULATION: ESSAYS IN ACTION FIGURE STUDIES, which is out now from McFarland. Their award-winning plays have also been produced internationally... Read More →
avatar for Ty Drago

Ty Drago

Editor, Publisher, Allegory
Since 1998, Ty has served as publisher and managing editor of ALLEGORY, an e-zine publishing quality science fiction, fantasy, and horror from new and established authors worldwide. He is also the author of nine published novels, has appeared in two anthologies, and has sold numerous... Read More →
IH

Inge Heyer

Inge Heyer, Ph.D., has spent decades developing a unique expertise in astronomy communications across a variety of settings, including college classrooms, K-12 schools, informal educational settings, professional scientific journalism, and science fiction venues. Born and raised in... Read More →
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →
GM

Glenn McDorman

G.L. McDorman writes horror and fantasy, and is lucky to have already achieved his life's ambition of having his name appear next to H.P. Lovecraft in a table of contents. Several of Glenn's speculative-fiction short stories and novellas will be published in 2019, and he is hard at... Read More →
JW

Jay Wile

Dr. Jay L. Wile holds an earned Ph.D. from the University of Rochester in nuclear chemistry and a B.S. in chemistry from the same institution. He has taught at both the university and high school levels and has won several awards for excellence in teaching. He has also published more... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

7:30pm EST

Doors Open For Masquerade Seating
Saturday November 17, 2018 7:30pm - 8:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Special Events

7:30pm EST

Mantras, Mudra, Sutra & MECHA!!! [90 min]
An exploration of Vedic & Southeast Asian SF & F through the numerous instances, concepts and derivative works produced by both Western and Eastern presses. We'll talk about Scripture, Literature, Saga Poetry, Graphic Novels, RPGs and more, from the Rg Veda and Ramayana 3392 A.D. to Escher and Exalted RPG.
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 7:30pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

8:00pm EST

The New Wave of Animated Royalty
Once upon a time in the West, the profession of "Princessing" was little more than glittering gowns, fuzzy woodland creatures, saccharine sing-a-longs and sporadic spunkiness. Enter the 21st Century: the next generation of animators, empowered by social change and raised on bolder, Eastern animated faire, has raised the bar for awe-inspiring animated royalty. Join us as we showcase examples, both Eastern and Western, of these heavy heads that wear the crown.
Speakers
RF

Robert Fenelon

Robert Fenelon walked into a room party at Philcon 1981 and was introduced to the wonderful world of VHS tape trading, Japanese pen-pals and Anime. RF spent the next four decades sharing that experience by writing, editing and publishing about anime, and showing anime at convention... Read More →
BT

Brian T. Graening-Price

Brian T. Price was hooked on japanese animation at an early age after his exposure to "Battle Of The Planets" in the first grade. But it wasn't until a chance meeting in New York City circa 1987 that he learned about organized anime fandom in the form of the Animation/Fantasy Association... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

8:00pm EST

Filk Theme Circle: Songs of Action
Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

8:00pm EST

Liminal Spaces in Americana
The impact of the mythology of the Midwest (and of Southern Gothic) on speculative literature.
Speakers
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →
BM

Bernie Mojzes

Had things worked out differently, Bernie Mojzes might have been a song & dance man. Fortunately, he can't dance, so instead, he writes and edits. His fiction has appeared in "Betwixt Magazine," "Daily Science Fiction," and "Crossed Genres," among others. He co-edited and published... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

8:00pm EST

Meet the Editors!
Magazine and small press editors discuss what goes into creating their publications, from the economics of staying viable in the electronic age to getting appropriate submissions.
Speakers
avatar for Neil Clarke

Neil Clarke

Editor, Clarkesworld Magazine
Neil Clarke (neil-clarke.com) is the editor of the Hugo and World Fantasy Award-winning Clarkesworld Magazine and several anthologies, including the Best Science Fiction of the Year series. He has been a finalist for the Hugo Award for Best Editor (Short Form) eight times, won the... Read More →
JP

Joshua Palmatier

Joshua Palmatier is a fantasy writer with a PhD in mathematics. He is the author of nine epic fantasy novel, his most recent being the conclusion of the "Ley" series, REAPING THE AURORA, from DAW Books. He is also the founder and an editor for the small press Zombies Need Brains... Read More →
DS

Darrell Schweitzer

Darrell Schweitzer's books include three novels, THE WHITE ISLE, THE SHATTERED GODDESS, THE MASK OF THE SORCERER, and THE DRAGON HOUSE, plus nine short-story collections, the most recent of which is a volume of Lovecraftian stories, AWAITING STRANGE GODS, published by Fedogan & Bremer... Read More →
avatar for Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman

Alex Shvartsman is a writer, translator, and anthologist from Brooklyn, NY. His political fantasy novel Eridani’s Crown was published in 2019. Over 120 of his short stories have appeared in Analog, Nature, Strange Horizons, and many other venues. His website is www.alexshvartsm... Read More →
avatar for Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman was the Editor-in-chief of Space and Time Magazine for 12 years. She is a short fiction author whose recent publications include, "My Dear Wa'ats" (2018, Baker Street Irregulars II: The Game's Afoot, Ventrella & Maberry, eds.), "The Lady of the Lakes" (2018, Camelot... Read More →
avatar for Ian Randal Strock

Ian Randal Strock

Fantastic Books
Ian Randal Strock is the editor and publisher of Fantastic Books (www.FantasticBooks.biz). As a writer, his fiction has appeared in Nature, Analog (from which he won two AnLab Awards), and several recent anthologies. His nonfiction has much wider distribution (including "Ranking the... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

8:00pm EST

The Dark Forest Theory
Cixin Liu's Dark Forest trilogy and John Scalzi's Old Man's War universe have reignited the "hostile aliens" theory. Was the Voyager map a mistake? Or will they just come for more Chuck Berry?
Speakers
BD

Bruce Dykes

Bruce has been a long time gamer and an SFF reader for even longer. His writing career has actually achieved negative time flow.
avatar for Bob Hranek

Bob Hranek

Systems Engineer, Lockheed Martin
Six years of computer programming started my professional career, followed by 28 years as an intelligence analyst, systems engineer, and program analyst. I’m a vocal Space Exploitation Advocate, read hard-SF whenever I have time, give blood five times a year (200 pints & counting... Read More →
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

8:00pm EST

The Sandy Swank Memorial Masquerade with a Half-Time show by The Chromatics
Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

8:00pm EST

Game: X-Wing Minis
Speakers
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 10:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

8:00pm EST

Game: Golden Templars RPG [8pm to Midnight]
This is an epic story. You are members of the Golden Templars, a sect within the Knight Templars who receive communion from the Holy Grail which grants them abilities beyond normal men and women. You are tasked with keeping the peace in Jerusalem and protecting the pilgrims who visit it. The feel of the campaign is mainly comic book with some secret history. Check out the Obsidian Portal: https://golden-templars.obsidianportal.com/ for more information.
Speakers
JS

John Swann

John has been coming to Philcon for over 20 years. He met his wife at a Philcon and together they decided to create the Gaming Suite as their way to give back.

Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 11:30pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

8:00pm EST

Game: Introductory Session for Pathfinder 1st Edition [8pm to Midnight]
Learn how to play the exciting Pathfinder 1st edition RPG. Chris Bell, Pathfinder Venture Agent, will run a scenario suited for beginning Pathfinder players. Pre-generated characters will be provided. This introduction to Pathfinder Society organized play will include Pathfinder Society scenario credit for participation. All experience levels welcome, including those new to the Pathfinder Society as well as PFS veterans!
Speakers
avatar for Chris Bell

Chris Bell

Consultant, Risky Content Media
Chris is a professional digital marketer who has been active in fandom since 1984. He has sat on panels related to tabletop RPGs, anime and digital marketing at Metatopia, Lunacon and other events. He ran the Lunacon anime program from 2010 to 2012 and in 2014. Chris is the social... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 8:00pm - 11:30pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

9:00pm EST

Totally Subversive Toons
We all remember when cartoons were nice and safe for kids...or were they? Sift through the subtext and you can see how shocking and tradition-defying they were, and still are to this day.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
RF

Robert Fenelon

Robert Fenelon walked into a room party at Philcon 1981 and was introduced to the wonderful world of VHS tape trading, Japanese pen-pals and Anime. RF spent the next four decades sharing that experience by writing, editing and publishing about anime, and showing anime at convention... Read More →
BT

Brian T. Graening-Price

Brian T. Price was hooked on japanese animation at an early age after his exposure to "Battle Of The Planets" in the first grade. But it wasn't until a chance meeting in New York City circa 1987 that he learned about organized anime fandom in the form of the Animation/Fantasy Association... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

9:00pm EST

Room Discussion: My Patronus is a Monster Truck
What are the best fan developments to come out of the Harry Potter fandom? Is there enough content to keep it alive despite waning interest- and expectations- in the recent additions to the canon?
Speakers
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →
avatar for Lynati

Lynati

Lynati is a freelance writer, artist, costumer, and event organizer in the Philadelphia area who has just served a fifth year as the head of Philcon's programming division. Ask not for whom the eels toll.

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

9:00pm EST

Filk Theme Circle: Best Sing-Along Song (Pegasus Category #2)
Speakers
RR

Roberta Rogow

Roberta Rogow has been involved in Fandom since 1973 as a Filker, Costumer, Fanzine writer and editor, and Artist (specializing in needlework). She has written historical mysteries, and Alternate History, but her most recent book, Lorr and Disorder, is a noir-ish mystery, "V.I. Warshawski... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

9:00pm EST

SF and Video Games
How has Science Fiction been altered and explored in the realm of player-interactive content? What impact did Metroid have on fandom and SF storytelling? What about Mass Effect?
Speakers
OH

Orenthal Hawkins

Orenthal V. Hawkins is an IT professional and a self-described Super Geek and Ultra Nerd. Or is that Ultra Geek and Super Nerd? Anyway... He is also adorkable, geektastic & delightfully nerdy. He is also 100% original and not a reboot. From B-movies to anime, from Old Time Radio to... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →
MR

Michael Ryan

Mike Ryan is a Twitch streamer (https://twitch.tv/toanstation) using playing games a vehicle to talk about games. He has been a fan of science fiction ever since the age of six. His love of the genre has expanded to include tabletop games, video games and anime.

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

9:00pm EST

The Living MultiVerse Diaries: Tropes & Tactics
So that Magic Sword is looking dull? That Laser Rifle doesn’t quite pew-pew like it used to? We'll take a look at both fantasy and postmodern armaments in Fantasy and SF Roleplaying Games, with a specific eye to synergy and implementation, as well as item creation, placement and team management from either side of the table.
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

9:00pm EST

The Paradox of Writing SF
Science Fiction is the genre best suited for ideas that challenge the status quo, because it is not bound by our reality as we know it. At the same time, SF has existed for long enough that it has become full of ossified paradigms that no longer force us to examine our perspectives. How do we keep our ideas relevant given the evolutionary nature of the genre while also dealing with the natural tendency of fiction to recycle cliches, frameworks, and touchstones that are familiar to us?
Speakers
MB

Martin Berman-Gorvine

Martin Berman-Gorvine is the author of seven science fiction novels, including the Sidewise Award-winning The Severed Wing (as Martin Gidron) (Livingston Press, 2002); 36 (Livingston Press, 2012); Seven Against Mars (Wildside Press, 2013); Save the Dragons! (Wildside Press... Read More →
avatar for Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook

Eric Hardenbrook is a fan, an author and an artist, generally in that order but not always. Eric's most recent work is being published in the Defending the Future series from E-spec books. He has been part of the team running the Watch The Skies science fiction and fantasy group and... Read More →
MM
avatar for Peter Prellwitz

Peter Prellwitz

Peter Prellwitz has been writing stories, plays and skits since the fifth grade. As a child and young adult, Peter saw limited publication of one play and two series of children’s puppet skits. Just enough to hook him for life.Presently, Peter has a total of nine novels published... Read More →
MS

Michael Swanwick

Michael Swanwick has received the Hugo Nebula, Theodore Sturgeon, World Fantasy, and Grand Roscon Awards and His work has been translated and published throughout the world. His novels include CHASING THE PHOENIX, DANCING WITH BEARS, STATIONS OF THE TIDE, JACK FAUST, BONES OF THE... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00pm EST

Saturday Night Open Filk
Speakers
RR

Roberta Rogow

Roberta Rogow has been involved in Fandom since 1973 as a Filker, Costumer, Fanzine writer and editor, and Artist (specializing in needlework). She has written historical mysteries, and Alternate History, but her most recent book, Lorr and Disorder, is a noir-ish mystery, "V.I. Warshawski... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

10:00pm EST

Game: One Night Ultimate Werewolf
No moderator, no elimination, ten-minute games. ONUW is a fast game for 3-10 players in which everyone gets a role, each with a special ability. In a single morning, your village will decide who is a werewolf...because all it takes is killing one werewolf to win!
Speakers
TA

Talavou Alailima

Gaming Suite Staff, and GM for "One Night Ultimate Werewolf".

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

10:00pm EST

Redesigning You: A Guided Meditation to Your Newly Minted Persona
A walkthrough for designing a stage character with their own background, history, circumstances, quirks and unique flair. Our questionnaire will lead participants through the process of identifying their interests, experiences, and knowledge in order to inform the process of re-defining themselves.
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary, Workshops

10:00pm EST

The 200th Anniversary of Frankenstein
Frankenstein is not just the first work of science fiction, but a seminal text on being an outsider. How might we read Frankenstein through Mary Shelley's experiences of being an outsider - a highly-educated woman and the daughter of a feminist?
Speakers
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00pm EST

Things to Remember When Negotiating a One-Night Stand with The Fae [18+]
A guide to keeping your characters safe, sane, and not turned into an equal volume of spiders.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →
LG

Leigh Grossman

Leigh Ronald Grossman is a writer, college lecturer, editor, and occasional reviewer. He teaches in the English Department at the University of Connecticut and is the president of Swordsmith Productions, a book development and book production company. Grossman is the author of fifteen... Read More →
IH

Ian Hanley

Ian Hanley, known as "Taliesin" in the Society for Creative Anachronism,has been a professional storyteller for longer than he's willing to admit in public. His specialty is improvisational storytelling, with his tales ranging from side-splittingly funny to thoughtfully dark and scary... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00pm EST

Shows We’re (Still) Not Over The Endings Of
Whether it was because of a surprise cancellation that left us with a massive cliffhanger, or the intentional plotting of a Machiavellian team of writers, some series ended in ways that- even years later- make us want to shriek. What finale left you agape?
Speakers
TF

Tony Finan

Tony suffers from photophobia caused by prolonged servitude in the Philcon film room, which he had run for over 15 years. He is an avid fan of the science fiction and horror film genres, specializing in British, Asian, and Zombie films. When not watching movies, he can be found behind... Read More →
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →
avatar for Tee Morris

Tee Morris

Author
Tee Morris has been writing science fiction, fantasy, horror, and non-fiction for over a decade. His first novel, MOREVI: The Chronicles of Rafe & Askana, became the first novel to be podcast in its entirety, ushering in a new age for authors — podcasting. He went on with... Read More →
avatar for Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman was the Editor-in-chief of Space and Time Magazine for 12 years. She is a short fiction author whose recent publications include, "My Dear Wa'ats" (2018, Baker Street Irregulars II: The Game's Afoot, Ventrella & Maberry, eds.), "The Lady of the Lakes" (2018, Camelot... Read More →
avatar for Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson, a Philadelphia area freelance writer and editor, is the editor of Wild Violet (wildviolet.net), a weekly online literary magazine. She has published a poetry chapbook, "Picturebook of the Martyrs," an essay collection, "The Art of Life," and an ebook, "Dedicated Idiocy... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

10:00pm EST

Tackling Sexuality and Gender Identity in Anime and Manga [18+] [90 min]
The spectrum of sexuality and gender identities are constantly being recalibrated and redefined. Let us help you understand with the helpful visual aid of some of your favorite characters. We invite everyone that wants to learn more about pan / bi / demi / ace sexualities, aromanticism, and intersex / trans / genderfluid gender identities.
Speakers
LB

Lauren Bellamy

Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →
avatar for Lyndsey Bellamy

Lyndsey Bellamy

Panel Geeks
Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 10:00pm - 11:30pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

10:30pm EST

Screening: AM1200 [40 min]
After a financial scam goes horribly wrong, analyst Sam Larson hits the road in a desperate bid to out run his guilt. But after hearing a radio broadcast that seems to be a call for help, his travels take an even darker turn. (Winner of ShockerFest's Best Short Film award for Horror in 2008.)
Saturday November 17, 2018 10:30pm - 11:15pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

11:00pm EST

Cosplay Court Case: Night Court [18+]
Is your character in need of justice? For the past fourteen years, the officers of Cosplay Court Case have arbitrated grievances across fandoms of all genres with assistance from audience members in this widely-loved improv event. So whether you're a Pokemon looking to file a restraining order against Ash Ketchum, Hondo Ohnaka suing the Jedi Council for wage theft, or want Fox McCloud tried for war crimes, come get yourself on the docket!
Speakers
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00pm - Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00am EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

11:00pm EST

Game: Cards Against Humanity [18+]
CAH is "a party game for horrible people." Each round, one player asks a question from a Black Card, and everyone else answers with their funniest White Card.
Speakers
VS

Virginia Swann

Long time Sci-Fi fan and annual participant of Philcon since 2000. Big time gamer girl, she and her husband John now manage the gaming suite. Ginny is also an actress and singer.

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00pm - Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00am EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

11:00pm EST

A Dramatic Reading of Chuck Tingle's Hugo-Nominated Work [18+]
It's a Tingler alright!
Speakers
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00pm - Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00am EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00pm EST

Harlan Ellison Retrospective
Ellison was a prolific writer of short stories, novellas, teleplays, essays, and criticism, with over 1,700 works to his name. What impact did he have on genre storytelling? What were his best works?
Speakers
PG

Phil Giunta

Phil Giunta’s novels include the paranormal mysteries Testing the Prisoner, By Your Side, and Like Mother, Like Daughters. His short stories appear in such anthologies as A Plague of Shadows, Beach Nights, Beach Pulp, the ReDeus mythology series, and the Middle of Eternity speculative... Read More →
DL

Dina Leacock

Diane Arrelle, the pen name of South Jersey writer Dina Leacock, has sold more than 250 short stories and has three published books including Just A Drop In The Cup, a collection of short-short stories and her newest collection of horror stories, Seasons On The Dark Side, . She... Read More →
DS

Darrell Schweitzer

Darrell Schweitzer's books include three novels, THE WHITE ISLE, THE SHATTERED GODDESS, THE MASK OF THE SORCERER, and THE DRAGON HOUSE, plus nine short-story collections, the most recent of which is a volume of Lovecraftian stories, AWAITING STRANGE GODS, published by Fedogan & Bremer... Read More →
JS

Jay Smith

Jay Smith is an award-winning audio dramatist, author, and podcast producer. He is the creator and writer of the online zombie horror series HG World, pulp adventure serial Hidden Harbor Mysteries, and the upcoming weird western series The Road to Renascence. His books include the... Read More →
MW

Mark Wolverton

Mark Wolverton is a science journalist, author, and 2016-17 Knight-MIT Science Journalism Fellow. He writes for various national and international publications including WIRED, Nature, Undark, Scientific American, and Air & Space Smithsonian. He has also worked with the NASA Ames... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00pm - Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00am EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00pm EST

Why We Hate Big Bang Theory
If you're a fan of the show, this panel is not for you. Everyone else, please join us for a delightful roast!
Speakers
BD

Bruce Dykes

Bruce has been a long time gamer and an SFF reader for even longer. His writing career has actually achieved negative time flow.
TF

Tony Finan

Tony suffers from photophobia caused by prolonged servitude in the Philcon film room, which he had run for over 15 years. He is an avid fan of the science fiction and horror film genres, specializing in British, Asian, and Zombie films. When not watching movies, he can be found behind... Read More →
CR

Charlie Robertson

How to make a Rock Robertson. Mix two Adventure genomes (predominantly endurance-selected North African with a splash of European), decant in Asia and inoculate through Global Travel, ensuring at least four continents of pathogenic exposure. Introduce a disdain for blind Authority... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:00pm - Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

11:30pm EST

Screening: Star Blazers: Space Battleship Yamato 2199 (ep 1)
[TV-14] Earth is on the verge of complete annihilation. Threatened by an intergalactic superpower known as Gamilas, humankind’s last hope for survival depends upon the generous assistance of another alien civilization - Iscandar. The Space Battleship Yamato - manned by a skilled, motivated crew and with advanced tech at its core - has only one year to seek out this planet and recover a device that could revitalize Earth.
Speakers
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Saturday November 17, 2018 11:30pm - Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00am EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation
 
Sunday, November 18
 

12:00am EST

Screening: Star Blazers: Space Battleship Yamato 2199 (eps 2-4)
[TV-14] Earth is on the verge of complete annihilation. Threatened by an intergalactic superpower known as Gamilas, humankind’s last hope for survival depends upon the generous assistance of another alien civilization - Iscandar. The Space Battleship Yamato - manned by a skilled, motivated crew and with advanced tech at its core - has only one year to seek out this planet and recover a device that could revitalize Earth.
Speakers
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00am - 1:00am EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

9:00am EST

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE IN THE TERRACE ROOM: 9am to 1pm
The Red Cross is hosting a blood drive. Please consider donating!
Sunday November 18, 2018 9:00am - 10:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Promenade (Gaming) Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

9:00am EST

Workshop: Exotic Modular & Building Block Toys [Family Friendly]
Explore construction systems beyond the paradigm of LEGO bricks.
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 9:00am - 10:00am EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology, The Family Friendly Options!

9:00am EST

Screening: Wolf Children [Family Friendly]
[PG] Hana was a student before she was a mother. She was bright and pretty, and her future held endless possibilities. Then she met a man, who turned out to be a wolf, and together they built a family.
Speakers
KS

Kristyn Souder

Kristyn is happy to return to Philcon to present her thoughts on anime, gaming, fantasy, sci-fi, con-running, and all things geek. In addition to heading the Anime Track at Philcon, she is the External Communications Director for Zenkaikon, a local anime and sci-fi convention. Her... Read More →
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 9:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation, The Family Friendly Options!

10:00am EST

Found Objects and Unconventional Materials
Fabric is great, but there’s so much more out there. Let’s talk about incorporating found objects and unconventional materials in props and costumes.
Speakers
HH

Heidi Hooper

Heidi Hooper is the dryer lint Lady -- Believe it or Not! Her unusual art is featured in Ripley's Believe it or Not Museums all over the world and in their books. She's also a two time winner of the prestigious Niche award, as has been the Artist Guest of Honor at Albacon and Heliosphere... Read More →
avatar for Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino Studios
Carl Paolino is a veteran of the entertainment industry. As producer, director, screenwriter, and production designer, his credits include feature films, television series, music videos, Broadway shows, and television commercials. His animated productions include: MTV’s Celebrity... Read More →
SS

Sarah Sanders

Sarah's costuming journey runs in a straight line from reenactment to LARPing to the convention costuming circuit. She likes to work on a new skill or try a new material for every new con season, and recently leveled up to the Master division.

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

10:00am EST

Sunday Meeting for Worship
An un-programmed non-denominational meeting for worship where attenders are encouraged to say a prayer, sing a hymn, or say something for the occasion.
Speakers
DK

Dotty Kurtz

Host of our non-denomination Sunday morning services.

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

10:00am EST

Filk Theme Circle: Classic Filk
Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

10:00am EST

Fifty Years of Pern
Anne McCaffrey's longest-running series was a trailblazing hybrid of fantasy and science fiction. What impact has it had on SF, fantasy, and multi-genre works? How well does it hold up when viewed in the present era?
Speakers
avatar for Elektra Hammond

Elektra Hammond

writer/editor, Until Midnight
Elektra Hammond emulates her multi-sided idol Buckaroo Banzai by going in several directions at once. She’s been involved in publishing since the 1990s—now she writes, concocts anthologies & edits science fiction for various and sundry. When not freelancing or appearing at science... Read More →
VJ

Victoria Janssen

Victoria Janssen reviews for Publishers Weekly. Her most recent novel is The Duke and the Pirate Queen, fantasy erotica from Harlequin (2010). Her major historical research interest is World War One, which is reflected in some of her fiction. Her second novel, The Moonlight Mistress... Read More →
avatar for Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman was the Editor-in-chief of Space and Time Magazine for 12 years. She is a short fiction author whose recent publications include, "My Dear Wa'ats" (2018, Baker Street Irregulars II: The Game's Afoot, Ventrella & Maberry, eds.), "The Lady of the Lakes" (2018, Camelot... Read More →
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00am EST

Science Fiction and The Men In Black
A discussion of conspiracy theories, secret societies, and themes of cover-ups / the creation of a false consciousness by shadowy organizations in science fiction. Should we be concerned about how paranoid society seems to be getting? Or is it all just a government ploy...
Speakers
MB

Martin Berman-Gorvine

Martin Berman-Gorvine is the author of seven science fiction novels, including the Sidewise Award-winning The Severed Wing (as Martin Gidron) (Livingston Press, 2002); 36 (Livingston Press, 2012); Seven Against Mars (Wildside Press, 2013); Save the Dragons! (Wildside Press... Read More →
avatar for Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio is best known as the author of the Fractured Time Trilogy; the Space Frontiers series; the adult horror series Night Creeps I and II and his recent new Pain series with Princess Pain and the new sequel, Queen of Pain. Michael worked for several years as a nuclear... Read More →
KP

Kevin Patterson

Kevin Patterson is an active member of the Philadelphia polyamory community. He's been practicing ethical nonmonogamy since August of 2002 after opening up a relationship that eventually became his marriage. In April of 2015, Kevin was inspired to start Poly Role Models, an interview... Read More →
MS

Mark Singer

Jack of all trades but master of none, Mark is a long-time SF fan, gamer (board and rpg), autodidact, and voracious reader of history.
MA

Michael A. Ventrella

Although primarily known as "that guy who predicted the Hodor plot," Michael A. Ventrella would rather be known for his humorous novels like "Big Stick," "Bloodsuckers: A Vampire Runs for President" and "The Axes of Evil." He edits the "Tales from Fortannis"anthologies as well as... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00am EST

Writing Like The Dickens
Steven King has been called the modern Charles Dickens—and not only for his copious output. Is that a reasonable assessment? Is King entitled to Dickens' throne? If you like your panels like your martinis—with an Olive or Twist—come join the discussion.
Speakers
avatar for Ty Drago

Ty Drago

Editor, Publisher, Allegory
Since 1998, Ty has served as publisher and managing editor of ALLEGORY, an e-zine publishing quality science fiction, fantasy, and horror from new and established authors worldwide. He is also the author of nine published novels, has appeared in two anthologies, and has sold numerous... Read More →
LG

Leigh Grossman

Leigh Ronald Grossman is a writer, college lecturer, editor, and occasional reviewer. He teaches in the English Department at the University of Connecticut and is the president of Swordsmith Productions, a book development and book production company. Grossman is the author of fifteen... Read More →
RS

Richard Stout

Richard premiered his trilogy of kid spy movies featuring James Blond, Agent Uh-Oh 7, at Philcon, beginning with 1993's LEARNER'S PERMIT TO KILL. His horror makeup/special FX workshop "Monsters, Aliens, and Spirit Gum" has been popular both here and at I-Con. He and his wife Kathryn... Read More →
JW

Joan Wendland

Joan Wendland is a game designer, an engineer, and the owner of Blood and Cardstock Games. Joan has designed card games, live action role playing games, and honest to God war games for the US government. In addition she has published two novels- Backstage: a novel of secret agendas... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

10:00am EST

Readings: Sunday 10am
Speakers
avatar for Brenda W. Clough

Brenda W. Clough

My latest novel, A MOST DANGEROUS WOMAN, is a neo-Victorian thriller just out from Serial Box. My previous novel, How Like a God, is out in e-format from Book View Cafe. My other works there include Revise the World, a time travel novel, and Speak To Our Desires, a dark detective... Read More →
avatar for April Grey

April Grey

April Grey's short stories can be found in various anthologies, both in print and on-line. Her collections of short stories, The Fairy Cake Bake Shoppe, and I'll Love You Forever are also available through Amazon. She is the editor of Hell's Garden: Bad, Mad and Ghostly Gardeners... Read More →
GM

Glenn McDorman

G.L. McDorman writes horror and fantasy, and is lucky to have already achieved his life's ambition of having his name appear next to H.P. Lovecraft in a table of contents. Several of Glenn's speculative-fiction short stories and novellas will be published in 2019, and he is hard at... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

10:00am EST

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of Current Technology Trends
What's the hottest tech about to change our world? Join us to discuss the promise, threat, and some things people usually don’t want to talk about.
Speakers
JA

John Ashmead

John Ashmead has a BA in physics from Harvard, summa cum laude, and a masters in physics from Princeton. For several years he was an assistant editor for Asimov's SF Magazine. Since then he has worked as a software and database developer, working in the medical, legal, advertising... Read More →
EB

Earl Bennett

I was a product engineer on devices for the blind and deafblind individuals for twenty six years. I am currently working on production and q.c. test for Data Display Systems a producer of point of sales systems and in-store advertising devices and systems. I am now Lead Technician... Read More →
avatar for Bob Hranek

Bob Hranek

Systems Engineer, Lockheed Martin
Six years of computer programming started my professional career, followed by 28 years as an intelligence analyst, systems engineer, and program analyst. I’m a vocal Space Exploitation Advocate, read hard-SF whenever I have time, give blood five times a year (200 pints & counting... Read More →
CR

Charlie Robertson

How to make a Rock Robertson. Mix two Adventure genomes (predominantly endurance-selected North African with a splash of European), decant in Asia and inoculate through Global Travel, ensuring at least four continents of pathogenic exposure. Introduce a disdain for blind Authority... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

10:00am EST

What Your Body Language Says About You
From casual social situations to job interviews, what signals are you sending?
Speakers
TC

Tobias Cabral

Tobias Cabral is a clinical psychologist, whose private practice (Serenity Psychology Services) is located in Langhorne, PA. He completed his undergraduate work at New York University and his Doctoral studies at Widener University's Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology. A lifetime... Read More →
PG

Phil Giunta

Phil Giunta’s novels include the paranormal mysteries Testing the Prisoner, By Your Side, and Like Mother, Like Daughters. His short stories appear in such anthologies as A Plague of Shadows, Beach Nights, Beach Pulp, the ReDeus mythology series, and the Middle of Eternity speculative... Read More →
avatar for Mary Spila

Mary Spila

Librarian, State Library of Pennsylvania
Mary Spila is not your stereotypical, mild-mannered librarian. She is an active member in the Society for Creative Anachronism. The spins her own yard, knits, and does tablet weaving. She reads everything within visual range. Current favorites are mixed genre fiction, History, and... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 10:00am - 11:00am EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

11:00am EST

Should You Watch: Symphogear?
Join us for a fun hour where we discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of Symphogear.
Speakers
BJ

Ben Jorritsma

Ben's interests include Anime, STEM, promoting DIY/Maker culture, and promoting agricultural awareness.

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

11:00am EST

Autographs: Sunday 11am
Speakers
avatar for Ken Altabef

Ken Altabef

An active SFWA member, Ken's short fiction has appeared in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Interzone, Daily Science Fiction, Intergalactic Medicine Show, BuzzyMag, Abyss & Apex, Perihelion and others. He is the author of eleven published novels with two more on the way... Read More →
avatar for April Grey

April Grey

April Grey's short stories can be found in various anthologies, both in print and on-line. Her collections of short stories, The Fairy Cake Bake Shoppe, and I'll Love You Forever are also available through Amazon. She is the editor of Hell's Garden: Bad, Mad and Ghostly Gardeners... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

11:00am EST

Workshop: Victorian Hat Stand ($15) or Pincushion ($10) [Family Friendly]
Make a Victorian style pincushion or hat stand and take it home with you! All materials provided including the stand- brass, wood, glass or ceramic, to make a fabulous pin cushion or hat stand you will love to have on your table! No experience necessary.
Speakers
LA

Lisa Ashton

Lisa Ashton is a SF/Fantasy/Historical costumer living in Harpers Ferry, WV. At Philcon 2010 she and Sandy Swank won BIS with "The Letter", a re-creation of the famous Civil War letter written by Sullivan Ballou to his wife Sarah early in the war. She has also done a humorous but... Read More →
avatar for Carol Salemi

Carol Salemi

Carol has worked over 40 years in many aspects of costuming from creating/fabricating to teaching, judging, and masquerade directing. She competes in the master division and received this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Costumers Guild. She is a medical... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

11:00am EST

Open Filk
Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

11:00am EST

The Chromatics: Concert #3
The Chromatics sing AND talk! This is an all-original music show, featuring songwriter discussion and Q&A about the songs.
Speakers
DP

Dr. Padi Boyd

Padi Boyd is the Chief of the Exoplanets and Stellar Astrophysics Laboratory in the Astrophysics Science Division, and the Project Scientist for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) Mission (a NASA Explorer Mission launched in April 2018). She has been at Goddard since... Read More →
JM

John Meyer

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. As the bass-baritone and vocal percussionist, John composes unique ditties that make you think, laugh, and go "huh?" Some have even been performed at the Maryland Renaissance Festival by men in tights. Others are sung... Read More →
MO

Michelle Orhan

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Michelle is a singer and a teacher. Her background in vocal performance means she teaches us a thing or two at every rehearsal. And her ability to deal with middle-schoolers means she has no trouble with the Chromies... Read More →
SR

Scott Rohrbach

A tenor-baritone, Scott was the first new Chromatic in 11 years, bringing another scientific mind to the group. He has a high energy groove, and a high frequency voice, but enjoys the occasional ballad when things get a little too excited. He's been writing original astronomy songs... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →
KS

Karen Smale

A member of The Chromatics, this year's musical guest of honor. Karen sings tenor, alto and mezzo, and writes songs about the Sun and planets, as well as the occasional cautionary tale of gridlock. She also designs most of the group's cover art.

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

11:00am EST

Fairy Tales for the Modern Age
Writers from Tanith Lee to Cat Valente to Seanan McGuire have incorporated and transformed fairy tales in their work. How have they managed to update the stories in a manner that feels both in line with the originals and relevant to the present day? Are their adaptations actually darker than the source material, or have the Disney versions just changed what we think of as the standard?
Speakers
avatar for Philippa Ballantine

Philippa Ballantine

Author
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, Philippa Ballantine has always had her head in a book. At the age of thirteen she began writing fantasy stories for herself. Her first professional sale was in 1997, and since then she has gone on to produce novel length fiction. In 2006 she became... Read More →
KH

Karen Heuler

Karen Heuler’s stories have appeared in over 100 literary and speculative magazines and anthologies, from Conjunctions to Clarkesworld to Weird Tales, as well as a number of Best Of anthologies. She has published five novels and three story collections with university and small... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya

Kim Kindya is a freelance editor, writer, and content manager. She currently has been doing editing work for manga publisher Seven Seas Entertainment. She has also worked at the SoHo ArtHouse digital art gallery in New York City, where she organized the successful AniMiniCon SoHo... Read More →
avatar for Linda J. Lee

Linda J. Lee

Director, Instructional Design; Lecturer, Folklore, University of Pennsylvania
Linda J. Lee is the Director of Instructional Design at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where she helps faculty use technology in their courses. She also teaches online and face-to-face Folklore courses for Penn’s School of Liberal and Professional Studies... Read More →
EP

Eric Parmer

Eric Parmer has a degree in English Literature with a focus on all the weird stuff that English Literature really shouldn't cover. Russian Fairy Tales. Vampires. Slavic Sci-Fi. You know. The classics.
avatar for Mary Spila

Mary Spila

Librarian, State Library of Pennsylvania
Mary Spila is not your stereotypical, mild-mannered librarian. She is an active member in the Society for Creative Anachronism. The spins her own yard, knits, and does tablet weaving. She reads everything within visual range. Current favorites are mixed genre fiction, History, and... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

Space Age Fashion: Dressing For The Future!
What elements contribute to the construction, aesthetic, and cultural significance of your characters' clothing? What does it imply about the world they live in?
Speakers
avatar for Byron Connell

Byron Connell

Interim Director, Masquerade Runners SIG
Byron Connell likes to help run masquerades rather than entering them. Entering once a decade is about right! Since being part of the Torcon III best-in-show entry, when he enters, he does so in the Master division. He is a member of the Sick Pups (NJ-NY Costumers Guild), the Armed... Read More →
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →
SS

Susan Shwartz

Back after several years, Susan Shwartz's most recent books are a reprint of WHITE WING (with Shariann Lewitt , writing as Gordon Kendall) and THE SUBVERSIVE JOB HUNGER'S HAND BOOK. She is also responsible for HOSTILE TAKEOVER (Tor) and the VULCAN SOUL trilogy (with the late Josepha... Read More →
MS

Muriel Stockdale

Muriel Stockdale’s successful 35-year career in entertainment as a designer, director, filmmaker and artist honed her ability and desire to tell her stories. She has for her entire life been fascinated by myths, spirituality and science fiction. She began avidly reading and comparing... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

The Creative Influence of Moorcock
Analyzing the works of Michael Moorcock and their impact of the Steampunk and Speculative Fiction genres. How do the concepts of the Multiverse, String Theory, Cosmic Foam, and Plato’s Sphere come into play?
Speakers
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →
avatar for Savan Gupta

Savan Gupta

President & CEO, Steam-Funk Studios & Geeks Gone Wild
Professional Emcee, Author, Game Developer. Former Wizards of the Coast employee. Entering the realm of fandom from a prior background in Financial Operations and Business Management, he delights in bringing proven expertise to these geeky endeavors. Quite the fan himself, Mr. Gupta... Read More →
TK

Tauney Kennedy

Living Historian, Co-Owner of Big Bear Trading Company, ad hoc Troupe Manager for Steam-Funk Studios, and Office Manager at The Nerdy Duo Productions. Recruited in April of 2013, Ms.Kennedy is a veteran performance director for Steam-Funk Studios, having co-written and produced portions... Read More →
MS

Mark Singer

Jack of all trades but master of none, Mark is a long-time SF fan, gamer (board and rpg), autodidact, and voracious reader of history.
avatar for F. M. Yates

F. M. Yates

Appraiser, Atomic City Comics
If you've bought comics on South St. in Philadelphia in the past 30 (?) years, then you've probably bought them from Michael. As owner of Atomic City Comics, on South St. (The coolest street in Philadelphia), Michael has been the local Comic Book pusher for decades. Writer and performer... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

You're Always Learning How to Write Better
Even established long-term professional writers still work to improve their skills. Authors discuss things they have learned along the way, and how they have gained new levels of expertise.
Speakers
MM

Marilyn 'Mattie' Brahen

Marilyn "Mattie" Brahen has published fiction in magazines and anthologies in America and Great Britain. Her 2003 first novel, CLAIMING HER, and its 2009 sequel, REFORMING HELL, received good reviews. A third mystery novel, BABY BOY BLUE, was published in 2011 and resold to Linford... Read More →
DC

D.L. Carter

D.L. Carter was decanted from her incubation pod in the outback of Australia many decades ago. This terrifying event was closely followed by shrieks of "there, there it goes. Hit it with a brick!" These valiant attempts to correct the existence of D.L. were, unfortunately, unsuccessful... Read More →
avatar for Sally Wiener Grotta

Sally Wiener Grotta

Author
Sally Wiener Grotta’s books include The Winter Boy (a Locus Magazine’s 2015 Recommended Read) and Jo Joe (a Jewish Book Council Network book). Her story "One Widow's Healing" was a 2019 Health Odyssey winner.Her hundreds of stories, columns and essays have appeared in scores of... Read More →
JP

Joshua Palmatier

Joshua Palmatier is a fantasy writer with a PhD in mathematics. He is the author of nine epic fantasy novel, his most recent being the conclusion of the "Ley" series, REAPING THE AURORA, from DAW Books. He is also the founder and an editor for the small press Zombies Need Brains... Read More →
avatar for Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson, a Philadelphia area freelance writer and editor, is the editor of Wild Violet (wildviolet.net), a weekly online literary magazine. She has published a poetry chapbook, "Picturebook of the Martyrs," an essay collection, "The Art of Life," and an ebook, "Dedicated Idiocy... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

11:00am EST

Writing A Film-Friendly Novel
What elements should you keep in mind while writing a novel if you're hoping to eventually see it onscreen?
Speakers
EC

Elizabeth Crowens

Elizabeth Crowens is the pen name for a veteran writer who is a regular contributor to Blackgate.com. A 15-year veteran of the film industry in Hollywood, a member of Mystery Writers of Americam the Horror Writers Association, Sisters in Crime and Broad Universe. A blackbelt in martial... Read More →
avatar for Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio

Michael D'Ambrosio is best known as the author of the Fractured Time Trilogy; the Space Frontiers series; the adult horror series Night Creeps I and II and his recent new Pain series with Princess Pain and the new sequel, Queen of Pain. Michael worked for several years as a nuclear... Read More →
BW

Barna William Donovan

Barna William Donovan is a professor of communication and media studies at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey. His first novel, CONFIRMATION: INVESTIGATIONS OF THE UNEXPLAINED, was published by World Castle Publishing in July 2018. He is also the author of three... Read More →
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →
avatar for Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino

Carl Paolino Studios
Carl Paolino is a veteran of the entertainment industry. As producer, director, screenwriter, and production designer, his credits include feature films, television series, music videos, Broadway shows, and television commercials. His animated productions include: MTV’s Celebrity... Read More →
RS

Richard Stout

Richard premiered his trilogy of kid spy movies featuring James Blond, Agent Uh-Oh 7, at Philcon, beginning with 1993's LEARNER'S PERMIT TO KILL. His horror makeup/special FX workshop "Monsters, Aliens, and Spirit Gum" has been popular both here and at I-Con. He and his wife Kathryn... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

11:00am EST

Readings: Sunday 11am
Speakers
SB
DL

Dina Leacock

Diane Arrelle, the pen name of South Jersey writer Dina Leacock, has sold more than 250 short stories and has three published books including Just A Drop In The Cup, a collection of short-short stories and her newest collection of horror stories, Seasons On The Dark Side, . She... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

11:00am EST

The Future of Synthetic Biology and Public Biohacking
Synthetic biology aims to create organisms that maintain and propagate themselves while producing a desired outcome, whether that is flowers that glow in the dark, cells that produce rare drugs, or architectural organisms that serve as living homes. From do-it-yourself biologists to biohackers to the International Genetically Engineered Machine, people are already bringing synthetic biology to life. We will discuss technologies that are available now, illustrative examples, and possible dangers of synthetic life.
Speakers
MH

Muriel Hykes

Muriel Hykes (AKA Dr. Mom) At Philcon, and elsewhere in East Coast fandom, she participates in panels on nutrition, allergies, education, ADHD, learning disabilities, computers, and the future of just about everything (isn't that what SF is really about?) She and her rocket-scientist... Read More →
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →
JS

John Skylar

John Skylar, Ph.D. is an infectious disease scientist, medical writer, and writer of both fiction and nonfiction. His work has appeared in Strange Bedfellows (Bundoran Press 2014), The Future Embodied (Simian Publishing 2014), Perihelion SF, Mashable, and The Huffington Post. He lives... Read More →
RC

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

11:00am EST

Game: Post-Apocalyptic Blues: Escapee Blues [11am to 3pm]
Fifty years after World War III, pockets of civilization try to flourish in the ruins of the old world. You lived a quiet life in a small farming settlement...until slavers raided your community and took you captive. Separated from your friends and family, you found yourself on a slave transport going to a place called Hopewell in Louisiana. And were it not for the...thing...that attached the transport, you would still be destined for slavery. But now, you and your fellow escapees must transverse the Louisiana swamps and marshes to find civilization, while avoiding the remaining slavers that want to recapture you and that...thing...that is still out there. How long can you last with on just your wits and the limited supplies you can scavenge? Players will be given pre-generated character sheets and will take on the role of an escapee from a slave transport. Uses variant d20 Modern/OGL rules. Players should bring their own dice.
Speakers
JA

Julie Ann Dawson

Julie Ann Dawson is an author, editor, publisher, RPG designer, and advocate for writers who may occasionally require the services of someone with access to Force Lightning (and in case it was not obvious, a bit of a geek). In 2002 she started her own publishing company, Bards and... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 11:00am - 3:00pm EST
Executive Suite 923 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Gaming

12:00pm EST

Concert: Dr. Seti
Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 12:30pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

12:00pm EST

Diversity in Anime and Manga [90 min]
Anime and manga hosts an entire rainbow of characters, from hair color to physical abilities. In this presentation, we focus on the range of characters that represent the diversity in all otaku—people of color, strong women, LGBTQ individuals, varied body types, and religious diversity.
Speakers
LB

Lauren Bellamy

Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →
avatar for Lyndsey Bellamy

Lyndsey Bellamy

Panel Geeks
Panel Geeks consists of two Philadelphia-area sisters/the co-founders of Nijicon(The convention that bridges the gap between yaoi fans and the LGBTQ+ community). This dynamic duo LOVES all things geeky and have decided to take their talents hosting panels on the road. Panel Geeks... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

12:00pm EST

Submitting Art to Magazines
Editors and art directors discuss their guidelines, pay rates, how they evaluate art for their magazine, and how to (politely) get their attention.
Speakers
TK

Tess Kissinger

30 years ago at Philcon 1980 - Tess Kissinger met Bob Walters, and the rest, as they say, is history. Actually, paleontology. Tess and Bob are two of the most famous dinosaur artists in the world. Recently they were chosen by the US National Park Service to paint the 80 foot long... Read More →
RW

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

12:00pm EST

Autographs: Sunday Noon
Speakers
DL

Dina Leacock

Diane Arrelle, the pen name of South Jersey writer Dina Leacock, has sold more than 250 short stories and has three published books including Just A Drop In The Cup, a collection of short-short stories and her newest collection of horror stories, Seasons On The Dark Side, . She... Read More →
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

12:00pm EST

Workshop: Fabric Manipulation
You can't just buy Padme's dressing gown from Naboo or Daenerys' dress fabric at your favorite sewing store. It has to be manipulated to give texture and depth. A workshop on North American smocking and other fabric manipulation techniques. Handouts and materials will be provided.
Speakers
DK

Diane Kovalcin

Diane Kovalcin is a long-time costumer, competing in both Science Fiction and Historical masquerades, a quilter and fan fiction writer. She also loves Star Wars and the BBC tv show Merlin - just ask her (or better yet, don't ask as she won't shut up about it).

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

12:00pm EST

Gardner Dozois’s “The Peacemaker”
A discussion of this Nebula-winning work, which will be led and audio-recorded by members of The Gene Wolfe Literary Podcast.
Speakers
BB

Brandon Budda

Brandon Budda is a local Philadelphia-based podcast host and science fiction aficionado. He has a background in English and Philosophy. He is also the co-founder of Claytemple media and co-host of the Gene Wolfe Literary Podcast and Eldersign: A Weird Fiction Podcast. Brandon is also... Read More →
GM

Glenn McDorman

G.L. McDorman writes horror and fantasy, and is lucky to have already achieved his life's ambition of having his name appear next to H.P. Lovecraft in a table of contents. Several of Glenn's speculative-fiction short stories and novellas will be published in 2019, and he is hard at... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

12:00pm EST

How to Channel Your Compulsive World-Building Habit into Something Constructive
You've got maps, star charts, cultures developed for a multitude of different races, and a timeline of the main historical developments over the last 1,000 years. But what you don't have is any clue what to do with it all! Let's see if we can help with that...
Speakers
VC

Vikki Ciaffone

Vikki Ciaffone has been reading and writing since a freakishly young age. She is a freelance editor and writer, and has worked for Spencer Hill Press. She knows a little bit about an astonishing number of largely irrelevant things. In her spare time, she plays craps with the Fates... Read More →
avatar for Brenda W. Clough

Brenda W. Clough

My latest novel, A MOST DANGEROUS WOMAN, is a neo-Victorian thriller just out from Serial Box. My previous novel, How Like a God, is out in e-format from Book View Cafe. My other works there include Revise the World, a time travel novel, and Speak To Our Desires, a dark detective... Read More →
RJ

Russell J. Handelman

Russell Handelman has written both fiction and nonfiction. He lives next to a swamp in Connecticut.
MM
avatar for John Monahan

John Monahan

Science Writer
John Monahan is a writer, and science teacher. He is the author of the non-fiction book They Called Me Mad: Genius, Madness and the Scientists Who Pushed the Outer Limits of Knowledge. His newest book is another non-fiction work, Babbage & Lovelace: The Victorian Computer Wizard and... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

12:00pm EST

Science Fiction as Social Education
How can science fiction help us become more socially aware? What allows science fiction to address social issues in unique ways not found in other forms of literature, and how can we meaningfully use it to better our society?
Speakers
PG

Phil Giunta

Phil Giunta’s novels include the paranormal mysteries Testing the Prisoner, By Your Side, and Like Mother, Like Daughters. His short stories appear in such anthologies as A Plague of Shadows, Beach Nights, Beach Pulp, the ReDeus mythology series, and the Middle of Eternity speculative... Read More →
avatar for Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya

Anastasia Klimchynskaya is a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute on the Formation of Knowledge at the University of Chicago. Her current book project focuses on articulating how the new technoscientific paradigm brought about by industrialization gave rise to the literary form... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

I'm a PhD astronomer who defected from academia to work on weather satellites for NOAA. Ask me about being a scientist. I wrote/produced a series of short, comedic films about asexuality, because I'm asexual and wanted to see aces in action. I recently came out as agender and I got... Read More →
RR

Rebecca Robare

Dr. Rebecca Robare has a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience and has worked as a college professor, camp counselor, science writer, library book-shelver, dishwasher, brain wave recorder, and cognitive simulation builder, and statistical analyst. She currently works as a research analyst... Read More →
MA

Michael A. Ventrella

Although primarily known as "that guy who predicted the Hodor plot," Michael A. Ventrella would rather be known for his humorous novels like "Big Stick," "Bloodsuckers: A Vampire Runs for President" and "The Axes of Evil." He edits the "Tales from Fortannis"anthologies as well as... Read More →
SZ

Simone Zelitch

Simone Zelitch is the author of five novels, most recently Judenstaat, an alternative history about a Jewish state established in Germany in 1948 which is forthcoming in paperback in 2020. A National Endowment for the Arts recipient, her work as appeared in Art Papers and The Forward... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

12:00pm EST

Babylon 5
Recently made available streaming on Amazon Prime, this pioneering Science Fiction TV show featured a fully-plotted story arc for each season, even as each episode told a single story. Fans both old and new will share reasons why *you* should watch it...while avoiding spoilers.
Speakers
avatar for Ken Altabef

Ken Altabef

An active SFWA member, Ken's short fiction has appeared in The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction, Interzone, Daily Science Fiction, Intergalactic Medicine Show, BuzzyMag, Abyss & Apex, Perihelion and others. He is the author of eleven published novels with two more on the way... Read More →
TF

Tony Finan

Tony suffers from photophobia caused by prolonged servitude in the Philcon film room, which he had run for over 15 years. He is an avid fan of the science fiction and horror film genres, specializing in British, Asian, and Zombie films. When not watching movies, he can be found behind... Read More →
avatar for Elektra Hammond

Elektra Hammond

writer/editor, Until Midnight
Elektra Hammond emulates her multi-sided idol Buckaroo Banzai by going in several directions at once. She’s been involved in publishing since the 1990s—now she writes, concocts anthologies & edits science fiction for various and sundry. When not freelancing or appearing at science... Read More →
LK

Lawrence Kramer

Dr. Lawrence Kramer has had a lifelong interest in science, sparked at a young age by avidly reading science fiction. He worked in the pharmaceutical industry followed by a career as a programmer analyst for a Fortune 500 financial company. However, the lure of science was too great... Read More →
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →
MW

Mark Wolverton

Mark Wolverton is a science journalist, author, and 2016-17 Knight-MIT Science Journalism Fellow. He writes for various national and international publications including WIRED, Nature, Undark, Scientific American, and Air & Space Smithsonian. He has also worked with the NASA Ames... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

12:00pm EST

What Your Action Figures Are Trying To Tell You
What is your favorite toy? Do you still have it? Or did you purge your collection when you turned a certain age? Too often, we turn our analytical brains to books, movies, music, and TV, but we throw away the significance of our toys. In this presentation, we'll look at famous toys and discuss the cultural messages contained within them.
Speakers
JA

Jonathan Alexandratos

Jonathan Alexandratos writes about action figures. They edited the first collection of academic essays on action figures, titled POINTS OF ARTICULATION: ESSAYS IN ACTION FIGURE STUDIES, which is out now from McFarland. Their award-winning plays have also been produced internationally... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

12:00pm EST

Readings: Sunday Noon
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie Burke, known to friends and readers as Flash, has a warped sense of humor and she isn't afraid to let it show. From pregnant men to six-foot cockroaches, she's covered the of the weird, the unusual, and the just plain strange. Stephanie is the co-founder of the charity organization... Read More →
RC

Robert C. Roman

Robert C Roman is an author of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Steam Punk, Space Opera, Superheroes, and Paranormal Romance. Robert has taken a long and winding path to get where he is today. Finally growing tired of life of adventure, Robert settled down with the Ur-Goth and began spawning... Read More →
avatar for Miriam Seidel

Miriam Seidel

Writer
Miriam Seidel's novel, The Speed of Clouds (New Door Books), takes place in the world of sci-fi fandom. She also wrote the libretto for Violet Fire, an opera about Nikola Tesla, performed in Belgrade, New York, and Philadelphia. She’s written for the Philadelphia Inquirer and other... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

1:00pm EST

1:30pm - Screening: Izetta: The Last Witch
[TV-14] It’s 1940 and the world is in the throes of war. Germania has threatened to invade a small neighboring country, putting their princess in danger. But in the midst of it all, a mysterious power awakens. The last witch has come to the aid of the princess, combining magic and weaponry to take on enemies.
Speakers
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

1:00pm EST

Demo: Digital Art Improv with N.E. Lilly
Nathan E. Lilly will create a digital illustration based on audience suggestions.
Speakers
avatar for Nathan Lilly

Nathan Lilly

N.E. Lilly is the editor of SpaceWesterns.com, Everyday Weirdness, and Thaumatrope. He develops websites for Science Fiction professionals and organizations through GreenTentacles. He has designed artwork and illustrations for a variety of media and processes, such as stage productions... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Two Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Art

1:00pm EST

Autographs: Sunday 1pm
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

Dr. Valerie J. Mikles

I'm a PhD astronomer who defected from academia to work on weather satellites for NOAA. Ask me about being a scientist. I wrote/produced a series of short, comedic films about asexuality, because I'm asexual and wanted to see aces in action. I recently came out as agender and I got... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

1:00pm EST

Workshop: Make & Take Foam Sabers / Therapy Swords [Family Friendly]
Pick from seven colors, then decorate the hilt with duct tape and other materials. Excellent for fun (or catharsis) at home!
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
The Gallery Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Costuming & Cosplay

1:00pm EST

Retail Skills for the Introvert
A discussion about digital customer service, self promotion, and sales skills templates that you can use every day to promote your work, and how these things are essential to selling your book or brand.
Speakers
JH

Jazz Hiestand

Born and raised in AZ, Jazz has done a lot of cool things and met a lot of cool people. As a 3rd generation member of fandom, Jazz has a rambling pile of knowledge and is willing to share it freely. Currently in cosmetology school and hanging out with amazing people online and in... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza V Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Fandom

1:00pm EST

Filk Theme Circle: Media-Inspired Songs
Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

1:00pm EST

The Impact of Learning to Write via Fanfiction
A number of well-known and well-respected authors got their start by writing fanfic. We’re talking Naomi Novik, Seanan McGuire, and Lois McMaster Bujold. Our panelists read the first published book by several authors who started out as fanfic writers, as well as interviews and other discussions of their experiences doing so, and compared the techniques seen in the books with fanfiction to extrapolate how a background in writing fic might affect one's literary style- and career.
Speakers
avatar for Karalyn Morris

Karalyn Morris

K. L. Morris has been published in The Flexible Persona, Body Parts, and Shimmer. She has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize and was an honorable mention for Ellen Datlow's Best of the Year Horror Anthology. She works as a freelance academic editor, copyeditor, developmental editor... Read More →
avatar for Shannon O’Shea

Shannon O’Shea

Shannon O'Shea is a speculative fiction writer from Phoenixville, PA. She has presented at The Pennsylvania Writers Conference and the King's College Creative Writing Conference.
EP

Eric Parmer

Eric Parmer has a degree in English Literature with a focus on all the weird stuff that English Literature really shouldn't cover. Russian Fairy Tales. Vampires. Slavic Sci-Fi. You know. The classics.

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza III Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

1:00pm EST

The Myth of the Mad Scientist
Despite a long history in fiction of solo geniuses making the ultimate breakthroughs in their basement labs, collaboration is necessary for scientific advancement. So why do we glorify the loner scientist trope? Can we make collaborative science feel equally heroic? How do we portray science being done realistically while still meeting the needs of the story?
Speakers
A

Aaron

Attendee
Aaron Feldman is a mechanical engineer, longtime fan, gamer, fic writer, vidder, and amateur post-modernist.
JA

John Ashmead

John Ashmead has a BA in physics from Harvard, summa cum laude, and a masters in physics from Princeton. For several years he was an assistant editor for Asimov's SF Magazine. Since then he has worked as a software and database developer, working in the medical, legal, advertising... Read More →
AK

Anna Kashina

Anna Kashina's writing draws on her diverse backgrounds as a Russian-born scientist, a competitive ballroom dancer, and a fan of martial arts, history, and folklore. She is the author of the award-winning “Majat Code” series featuring adventure fantasy, medieval politics, assassins... Read More →
avatar for Tee Morris

Tee Morris

Author
Tee Morris has been writing science fiction, fantasy, horror, and non-fiction for over a decade. His first novel, MOREVI: The Chronicles of Rafe & Askana, became the first novel to be podcast in its entirety, ushering in a new age for authors — podcasting. He went on with... Read More →
avatar for Alan P. Smale

Alan P. Smale

In addition to singing bass with the Chromatics, this year’s Musical Guests of Honor, Alan Smale writes alternate and twisted history, and occasional pure SF and fantasy. His novella of a Roman invasion of ancient America, “A Clash of Eagles”, won the Sidewise Award for Alternate... Read More →
JS

Jim Stratton

Jim Stratton is a chameleon. By day, he is a mild-mannered government lawyer, and lives with his wife and children in southern Delaware. But he's been an avid fan of speculative fiction all his life, and began writing genre fiction 20+ years ago. In recent years he's been forging... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

1:00pm EST

When Less Is More
We've talked a lot over the years about how to avoid infodumping, or at least, giving your readers information in a way that is entertaining and easy to parse. But sometimes the question you ought to ask is not how to insert all the facts about the world you've built, but "is it necessary?"
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Panelist, eSpec Books
Award-winning author Danielle Ackley-McPhail has worked both sides of the publishing industry for longer than she cares to admit. In 2014 she joined forces with husband Mike McPhail and friend Greg Schauer to form her own publishing house, eSpec Books (www.especbooks.com). Her published... Read More →
SB
VC

Vikki Ciaffone

Vikki Ciaffone has been reading and writing since a freakishly young age. She is a freelance editor and writer, and has worked for Spencer Hill Press. She knows a little bit about an astonishing number of largely irrelevant things. In her spare time, she plays craps with the Fates... Read More →
avatar for Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca

Marshall Ryan Maresca is a fantasy and science-fiction writer, author of the Maradaine Saga: Four parallel series set amid the bustling streets and crime-ridden districts of the exotic city called Maradaine. This includes The Thorn of Dentonhill, A Murder of Mages, The Holver Alley... Read More →
BM

Bernie Mojzes

Had things worked out differently, Bernie Mojzes might have been a song & dance man. Fortunately, he can't dance, so instead, he writes and edits. His fiction has appeared in "Betwixt Magazine," "Daily Science Fiction," and "Crossed Genres," among others. He co-edited and published... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

1:00pm EST

Screening: Starship Farragut Animated Episodes
This fan-made series follows the adventures of Federation Starship Farragut and its crew and captain John Thomas Carter during the same era that the original Star Trek series is set in.
Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Ballroom A Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Media

1:00pm EST

Readings: Sunday 1pm
Speakers
KH

Karen Heuler

Karen Heuler’s stories have appeared in over 100 literary and speculative magazines and anthologies, from Conjunctions to Clarkesworld to Weird Tales, as well as a number of Best Of anthologies. She has published five novels and three story collections with university and small... Read More →
avatar for Nick Martell

Nick Martell

Nick Martell is the author of THE KINGDOM OF LIARS out May 7th and June 23rd from Gollancz and Saga Press.
avatar for Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman

Hildy Silverman was the Editor-in-chief of Space and Time Magazine for 12 years. She is a short fiction author whose recent publications include, "My Dear Wa'ats" (2018, Baker Street Irregulars II: The Game's Afoot, Ventrella & Maberry, eds.), "The Lady of the Lakes" (2018, Camelot... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Executive Suite 623 Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Readings

1:00pm EST

How Do Radios Really Work?
A discussion for writers of range and scope, HAM radio operation, the rise and descent of CB radio, common malfunctions and simple fixes, and where they can be found in the case of zombies.
Speakers
EB

Earl Bennett

I was a product engineer on devices for the blind and deafblind individuals for twenty six years. I am currently working on production and q.c. test for Data Display Systems a producer of point of sales systems and in-store advertising devices and systems. I am now Lead Technician... Read More →
BD

Bruce Dykes

Bruce has been a long time gamer and an SFF reader for even longer. His writing career has actually achieved negative time flow.
CR

Charlie Robertson

How to make a Rock Robertson. Mix two Adventure genomes (predominantly endurance-selected North African with a splash of European), decant in Asia and inoculate through Global Travel, ensuring at least four continents of pathogenic exposure. Introduce a disdain for blind Authority... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Science & Technology

2:00pm EST

Roundtable: A Farewell to Adventure Time
A fond look back on the little show that could. Audience participation appreciated!
Speakers
PT

Phillip Thorne

Interested in everything, especially if it can be organized and analyzed, except for sportsball. "Everything" includes LEGO bricks, vintage science magazines, international travel plans, linguistics, and macroeconomic time series databases. Affiliated with Philcon since 2001 as repeat... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza IV Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

2:00pm EST

Screening: Izetta: The Last Witch
[TV-14] It’s 1940 and the world is in the throes of war. Germania has threatened to invade a small neighboring country, putting their princess in danger. But in the midst of it all, a mysterious power awakens. The last witch has come to the aid of the princess, combining magic and weaponry to take on enemies.
Speakers
TS

Tim Souder

Tim is a long time fan of science fiction and anime. He is sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of Zenkaikon (another local anime and science fiction convention). He has read all of the science fiction novels by Asimov and Clarke, and numerous other series. He is an... Read More →
RZ

Robert Zygala

The Vice-president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Delaware Anime Society. The Head of Technical Operations and member of the Board of Directors for Zenkaikon.

Sunday November 18, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza I Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Anime & Animation

2:00pm EST

Autographs: Sunday 2pm
Speakers
TK

Tess Kissinger

30 years ago at Philcon 1980 - Tess Kissinger met Bob Walters, and the rest, as they say, is history. Actually, paleontology. Tess and Bob are two of the most famous dinosaur artists in the world. Recently they were chosen by the US National Park Service to paint the 80 foot long... Read More →
RW

Sunday November 18, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Autograph Table Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Autographs

2:00pm EST

Philcon 2018 Songwriting Contest Performances
Sunday November 18, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza VI Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Filk & Music

2:00pm EST

At Loose Ends
What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?What books needed a sequel and never got one? Which series have been (or should be) beaten to death with a stick?
Speakers
GC

Gil Cnaan

By day, Gil works as a data scientist at DuPont, working not only with big data, but AR/VR, and other emerging technologies. By night, he works as an event promoter and DJ, both with his own company, Storykeeper Events, and as a coproducer of the Philadelphia Renaissance Faire. He... Read More →
CF

Carl Fink

Carl Fink has worked for conventions on and off since 1979. He was the founding chair of LI-CON, a convention based on Long Island, in New York. He has also worked for several Worldcons. In real life he is an Instructional Designer, after periods as a science teacher, programmer... Read More →
LG

Leigh Grossman

Leigh Ronald Grossman is a writer, college lecturer, editor, and occasional reviewer. He teaches in the English Department at the University of Connecticut and is the president of Swordsmith Productions, a book development and book production company. Grossman is the author of fifteen... Read More →
avatar for Elektra Hammond

Elektra Hammond

writer/editor, Until Midnight
Elektra Hammond emulates her multi-sided idol Buckaroo Banzai by going in several directions at once. She’s been involved in publishing since the 1990s—now she writes, concocts anthologies & edits science fiction for various and sundry. When not freelancing or appearing at science... Read More →
TP

Tom Purdom

Tom Purdom's first published story appeared in the August, 1957 issue of a magazine called Fantastic Universe His latest can be found in the November-December issue of Asimov's, now on sale. His contributions to the science fiction scene include novels, short stories and novelettes... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Crystal Ballroom Three Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary

2:00pm EST

Cyberpunk 2.0
It has been 35 years since Bruce Bethke’s genre-defining short story “Cyberpunk” was published in Amazing Stories. Since then we've had stories such as Neuromancer, Max Headroom, Hackers, The Matrix, and Ready Player One. Are tales of a highly-networked technological dystopian futures *too* relevant to be feel like fantasy these days?
Speakers
TC

Tobias Cabral

Tobias Cabral is a clinical psychologist, whose private practice (Serenity Psychology Services) is located in Langhorne, PA. He completed his undergraduate work at New York University and his Doctoral studies at Widener University's Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology. A lifetime... Read More →
BD

Bruce Dykes

Bruce has been a long time gamer and an SFF reader for even longer. His writing career has actually achieved negative time flow.
avatar for Nathan Lilly

Nathan Lilly

N.E. Lilly is the editor of SpaceWesterns.com, Everyday Weirdness, and Thaumatrope. He develops websites for Science Fiction professionals and organizations through GreenTentacles. He has designed artwork and illustrations for a variety of media and processes, such as stage productions... Read More →
AR

Aaron Rosenberg

Aaron Rosenberg is an award-winning novelist, children's book author, and game designer. His novels include the best-selling DuckBob SF comedy series, the Relicant Chronicles epic fantasy series, the Dread Remora space-opera series, and, with David Niall Wilson, the O.C.L.T. occult... Read More →

Sunday November 18, 2018 2:00pm - 3:00pm EST
Plaza II Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill, 2349 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002
  Literary