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Saturday, March 28
 

9:00am EDT

Everything You Wanted to Know About Coffee But Were Too Afraid to Ask
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
A seasoned coffee shop barista is here to share the tips and tricks for ordering the best coffee, spill the tea about nightmare customers (and how to not be one), and answer your most (french) pressing questions.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Charlevoix B

9:00am EDT

Book Swap
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
Do you have a pile of books that you have loved but need to find a new home? Are your shelves straining under the weight of books you have already read? Do you want to maybe find a new book to add to your horde? Do you wish to defy the capitalistic overlords and exchange goods without generating profits for the oligarchs? Well come on down to the annual Penguicon Books Swap. Bring your stacks and give them away to new homes or swap them for something in someone else's stack. Everyone is welcome, even if you don't have a stack of your own.
Speakers
avatar for John Patrick

John Patrick

I like to consider myself a "Nerd of All Seasons." I play and collect many board games, card games, RPGs and miniature wargames. I read almost anything that seemes interesting but especially love sci-fi, cyberpunk, and local history. I am a bit of a tinkerer and enjoy conversation... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am EDT
Algonquin D

10:00am EDT

Seasonal Anime BoF
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Let’s get together to squee about our favorite anime, manga, and light novels from 2025 to the present! Guilty pleasures included.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Kemner

Paul Kemner

Paul's a bit older than Godzilla, watched the original broadcast of
the Astro Boy series, and has been a fan of anime ever since. Finally retired as a database guy, he works on his 108 secret skills, studies
ancient & modern polytheist religions, plays exotic instruments, and
writes... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Portage auditorium

10:00am EDT

Creature Eyeballs
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Learn how to make various types of eyes for costumes and props. Materials will be provided to make an eye.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Charlevoix B

10:00am EDT

Knitting 101
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Learn how to take 2 sticks and some string and make a dish cloth!
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Vanderwell

Kelly Vanderwell

Ops Staff, AAA Call management
preferred pronoun They/Them
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Charlevoix C

10:00am EDT

Industrial Automation for People Who Like Computers And Employment
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
An introduction to industrial automation, the sensors, controls, and devices that make trains run, buildings work, and blinkenlights blinken. Come by if you want to see how the other half of programmers live!
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Algonquin C

10:00am EDT

Fiction Writing: Where to Begin
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Got an idea you want to turn into a story? Seasoned pros will walk you through the process of turning an idea into a story with all the necessary elements.
Moderators
avatar for Stephanie Loree

Stephanie Loree

Freelance Writer & Copy Editor, Jinx Publishing LLC
Born and still based in Ohio, Stephanie Lorée writes fantasy fiction and occasionally moonlights as a rock star. Her stories have appeared in places like Abyss & Apex and as tie-in fiction for the Pathfinder RPG. In 2013, she was a finalist for the Writers of the Future award... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters is an American author known for his genre-blending narratives that span thrillers, suspense, science fiction, and literary fiction. His stories often delve into the unexpected, exploring life's quirky tangents with a unique voice that combines humor and darkness... Read More →
avatar for Jean Davis

Jean Davis

Sci-fi & Fantasy Author
Jean Davis writes an array of speculative fiction and plays with chickens. She has written short story collections, a space opera series, stand-alone novels, children’s books about her chickens, many projects that aren’t yet finished, and a lot of pages that you will never se... Read More →
avatar for Ray Tabler

Ray Tabler

Author, Science Fiction You Can Enjoy
My aim is to write science fiction you can enjoy. So far that's manifested as what I call Light Space Opera. Imagine Starship Troopers, hijacked by Monty Python, or space opera as produced by Gilbert and Sullivan, while bankrolled and bullied by Flo Ziegfeld. Additional links:
Ray... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Blackstream

Jennifer Blackstream

Author
"Jennifer Blackstream is a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and fantasy romance. She is amazed and grateful to have made a writing career out of a Master’s degree in Psychology, hours of couch-detecting watching Murder She Wrote, and endless research into mythology... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Algonquin A

10:00am EDT

World Building in a Dystopia
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
So you're inspired to write a dystopia but not sure where to start. This workshop walks you through the rules of a dystopia and the multiple approaches to world/story building while leaving time to discuss works/ideas in progress and workshop them as a group.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Spina

Katie Spina

Author, Awesome Authors Kids
Ms. Katie is an award-winning kidlit author who writes stories for kids where finding your fit means trusting in who you are. An avid reader, she loves all sorts of books across a wide spectrum. With a Bachelor's degree in Writing from the University of Michigan-Flint, she is a professional... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Montcalm

10:00am EDT

Craft Supply Swap Rebirth
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Back for the 7th year. Any crafter knows that buying, organizing, and using craft supplies are 3 separate hobbies. Bring the craft supplies that you no longer want or need and pick up some FREE crafting items you'll actually use*. [*no promises]. Are your jewelry making supplies gathering dust and you find yourself really into embroidery instead? Want to begin painting, knitting, cross stitching, paper crafting but don't have supplies to get started? C’mon down! After the first 15 minutes - when everyone who brought items has time to go through the tables - everyone else (that means you!) is welcome. Come find some treasures to take home. Get set up for your new hobby. For free. Items not claimed at the end of the session will be donated.
Please Note: Everyone will be asked to use the provided hand sanitizer before digging through the Treasure Hoard.
Speakers
avatar for Josie

Josie

Josie (she/they) is a disabled autistic with EDS and several additional rare disorders that keep life "interesting". She advocates for the disabled and neurodivergent communities and encourages adaptation and accessibility so everyone feels welcome. 

With a background in special ... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am EDT
Board of Regents

11:00am EDT

The Anime Music Video Lounge (AMVs)
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Anime Music Videos are fan-created shorts. People with waaay too much time on their hands pick a song and create a music video using clips from one or more anime series. Think “I Am the Walrus” with scenes from Odd Taxi, or a song from Kpop Demon Hunters with battling anime magical girls. Crazy fun!
Speakers
avatar for Paul Kemner

Paul Kemner

Paul's a bit older than Godzilla, watched the original broadcast of
the Astro Boy series, and has been a fan of anime ever since. Finally retired as a database guy, he works on his 108 secret skills, studies
ancient & modern polytheist religions, plays exotic instruments, and
writes... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Portage auditorium

11:00am EDT

Career Navigation Strategies - Taking Charge of your Life
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
What's your career navigation strategy? Work requires skills and experience. It’s all about gaming strategies. Are you contemplating your opening, middle, or endgame? You need to assess if you are going for opportunities, money, or security. Your strategy will dictate your tactics. What have you been focusing on: the job search, your skill set, or market demand? This will be the bulk of the conversation. Bring your stories and your issues. Maybe we can help you work out a strategy, or at least a few tactics.

Don’t waste time experimenting with low-probability strategies. If you are established professionally consider how to augment your current skills. More importantly, how are you positioning yourself to make those difficult transition points? Recent graduates need to consider their entry strategy and how to maximize their career growth.
Speakers
avatar for Douglas Johnson

Douglas Johnson

Government Contractor, Colsa Corporation
Masters in Computers Information Systems and Aeronautical Management. 20 year veteran of US Air Force. Currently working on government contract. Adjunct Instructor for computer classes for 10 years. Helped run a Science Fiction Convention in Cincinnati, Ohio for 16 years. When my... Read More →
avatar for Mark Haynes

Mark Haynes

STEM, Dmarkhaynes Consulting
I’m a renaissance man trapped in a specialist’s body. My degree is in biology. That’s why I’m IT. I’ve worked as a software developer, with an elegant language for a more civilized age. I became a QA guy because breaking things is therapeutic. I became a process specialist... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Algonquin C

11:00am EDT

How to Talk to Anyone about Anything
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Bob is the founder of IT in the D and the host of the IT in the D podcast. Bob is a tech sales guy by trade and is known for sitting at the corner bar stool at various dive bars talking about anything to literally anyone. This session won't give you the gift of gab, but you will leave better equipped to have a conversation with anyone about anything. He has taught numerous courses on business storytelling and has over 1,500 hours of recorded content online.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Algonquin D

11:00am EDT

Round and Round the Kumihimo Merry-Go-Round: Exploring the Math, Motion, and Patterns of Circular Weaving
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Come join us on the Kumihimo merry-go-round, where we will discover how math, geometry, and rhythm spin together to create art. In this interactive session, participants will learn about the origins of this ancient Japanese braiding technique, get a chance to create their own woven patterns, and maybe even see how a LEGO robot can join the fun!
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Charlevoix C

11:00am EDT

PSTN Demystified 2.0
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
In 2013, I explained how the telephone network worked. 13 years later, I say how it works NOW, and what has changed in the last 13 years (and it's been a LOT).
Speakers
avatar for Paul Timmins

Paul Timmins

Paul Timmins has run the free telecom reference website telcodata.us for the last 10 years, and has worked as a consultant in the telecommunications industry during the same time period. Currently, he works at an unnamed competitive landline phone company, where he designs and operates... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Algonquin B

11:00am EDT

Ask a Publisher!
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Q&A with Detroit area small press Atthis Arts managing editor Chris Bell. Ask anything about the business of publishing: including contracts, finance/accounting, distribution, crowdfunding, book design (layout/ebooks/audio). Questions submitted ahead of time are encouraged. Self-publishing questions are welcome.
Speakers
avatar for Chris Bell

Chris Bell

Managing Editor, Atthis Arts, LLC
Chris Bell (he/him) is Managing Editor for Detroit-based indie publisher Atthis Arts. With a particular fondness for speculative fiction, Atthis Arts strives to publish quality books that honor the authentic and artistic voice of authors while striving for social responsibility. An... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Charlevoix B

11:00am EDT

Author Signing - Jennifer Blackstream & Christine Daigle
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Author Signing - Jennifer Blackstream & Christine Daigle
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Blackstream

Jennifer Blackstream

Author
"Jennifer Blackstream is a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and fantasy romance. She is amazed and grateful to have made a writing career out of a Master’s degree in Psychology, hours of couch-detecting watching Murder She Wrote, and endless research into mythology... Read More →
avatar for Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle is a multi-genre author whose latest release, Heavy Are The Stones, is a serial killer thriller co-authored with New York Times bestselling author J.D. Barker. She and Barker are also collaborating on a reboot of Flatliners, based on the original screenplay.  Christine... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Bookstore

11:00am EDT

What I Wish I'd Known
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Authors discuss what they've learned about writing, publishing, and marketing they wish they'd known when they first started.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters is an American author known for his genre-blending narratives that span thrillers, suspense, science fiction, and literary fiction. His stories often delve into the unexpected, exploring life's quirky tangents with a unique voice that combines humor and darkness... Read More →
avatar for Jean Davis

Jean Davis

Sci-fi & Fantasy Author
Jean Davis writes an array of speculative fiction and plays with chickens. She has written short story collections, a space opera series, stand-alone novels, children’s books about her chickens, many projects that aren’t yet finished, and a lot of pages that you will never se... Read More →
avatar for Katie Spina

Katie Spina

Author, Awesome Authors Kids
Ms. Katie is an award-winning kidlit author who writes stories for kids where finding your fit means trusting in who you are. An avid reader, she loves all sorts of books across a wide spectrum. With a Bachelor's degree in Writing from the University of Michigan-Flint, she is a professional... Read More →
avatar for Ray Tabler

Ray Tabler

Author, Science Fiction You Can Enjoy
My aim is to write science fiction you can enjoy. So far that's manifested as what I call Light Space Opera. Imagine Starship Troopers, hijacked by Monty Python, or space opera as produced by Gilbert and Sullivan, while bankrolled and bullied by Flo Ziegfeld. Additional links:
Ray... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Algonquin A

11:00am EDT

Writing Truth in Fiction
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Our written voice gives us a connection to our readers. It is important to be truthful to the readers. Through our characters and the situations they endure, we can instill empathy in our readers, help them see new possibilities, or simply help them escape the real world for a bit of time. Our words need to be honest to allow the reader to suspend disbelief and accept the world we’ve created. If what you’ve written doesn’t feel real to you, the writer, the reader won’t believe it either.
Speakers
avatar for Leslie Gulvas

Leslie Gulvas

I'm a collector of experiences and writer of both fact and fiction. I live on a farm with a giant wolf hound, a disgruntled guard pig, silly cats and an old gray horseMy books are:
Carnival Charlatan an urban fantasy,
Brenda's House a middle grade ghost story, and
Off the Reservatio... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Montcalm

11:00am EDT

Kaffeeklatsch - David Weber, Jarod K. Anderson, and Richard C. White
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Spend an hour sitting, drinking coffee, and talking with David Weber, Jarod K. Anderson, and Richard C. White.
Speakers
avatar for Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson is a writer and poet from Ohio. His new fantasy novel Strange Animals was called "a wholly captivating tale of magic and nature" by Publishers Weekly. His book about nature and mental health Something in the Woods Loves You was praised as a "brilliantly poignant... Read More →
avatar for Richard C. White

Richard C. White

Original and Media Tie-in Author. I write Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dark Fantasy, Fantasy Noir, Action-Adventure, Historical Fantasy, and Non-Fiction. I will be releasing up to 4 new books in 2026 and have been a panelist/guest at MystiCon nine times in the pre-Covid shows.

My works can be found at http://www.richardcwhite.com/bibliography... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Hamlin

11:00am EDT

The Classic Dungeon
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
One of the first board games based on D&D! You all take the roles of adventures exploring a dungeon full of monsters and treasure. Be the first to meet your goal in collected gold coins and escape the dungeon to win! 

Be warned, your hero may die, in which case you start fresh with a new one, but this cost you valuable time. Also, this is not a co-operative game, and there are options to mug fellow adventurers and steal some of their loot! 

Secret doors, magic items, deadly monsters, and magical spells are all a part of the CLASSIC DUNGEON! 
Speakers
avatar for Lloyd Williams

Lloyd Williams

Programming Concom
I am a long-time gamer, both of board games and RPGs. I love good sci-fi and fantasy novels so tell me about any new authors you like.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Nicolet

12:00pm EDT

Author Signing - Jim Butcher
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Author Signing - Jim Butcher
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Bookstore

1:00pm EDT

Crochet 101
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Learn to take a hook and some string and make dish cloths!
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Vanderwell

Kelly Vanderwell

Ops Staff, AAA Call management
preferred pronoun They/Them
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Charlevoix C

1:00pm EDT

Ask a Pagan
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Modern “paganism” is far more complex than you might think. There are countless paths, often with few things in common. Everything from honoring nature, updating ancient sundered religions for today, sacred feminism, Wicca, some forms of witchcraft, and new deliberately-constructed systems. Some have no deities, some have thousands. Some employ magic, some don’t. We’ll include as many traditions as we can. Stop by for a fascinating discussion and bring your respectful questions.
Speakers
avatar for Josie

Josie

Josie (she/they) is a disabled autistic with EDS and several additional rare disorders that keep life "interesting". She advocates for the disabled and neurodivergent communities and encourages adaptation and accessibility so everyone feels welcome. 

With a background in special ... Read More →
avatar for Paul Kemner

Paul Kemner

Paul's a bit older than Godzilla, watched the original broadcast of
the Astro Boy series, and has been a fan of anime ever since. Finally retired as a database guy, he works on his 108 secret skills, studies
ancient & modern polytheist religions, plays exotic instruments, and
writes... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Portage auditorium

1:00pm EDT

Fundamental AI Prompts for Cybersecurity and Leveraging AI For SOC Analyst
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
This presentation explores how artificial intelligence can enhance cybersecurity operations and the effectiveness of Security Operations Center (SOC) analysts. It introduces key AI models like GPT-5 and Gemini, outlines best practices for privacy and security, and defines the core roles and responsibilities of SOC analysts. The presentation demonstrates how structured AI prompts can be used to understand cybersecurity concepts, generate study material, identify and analyze threats, decode malicious code, and streamline investigative workflows. Through practical examples and live demonstrations, it emphasizes integrating AI tools to strengthen incident response, improve learning, and advance cybersecurity readiness.
Speakers
avatar for William Bowen

William Bowen

Featured Guest - Wellness Track, Penguicon

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Algonquin B

1:00pm EDT

Author Signing - Jarod K. Anderson
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Author Signing - Jarod K. Anderson
Speakers
avatar for Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson is a writer and poet from Ohio. His new fantasy novel Strange Animals was called "a wholly captivating tale of magic and nature" by Publishers Weekly. His book about nature and mental health Something in the Woods Loves You was praised as a "brilliantly poignant... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Bookstore

1:00pm EDT

Effective Worldbuilding
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Fiction requires creating interesting, immersive worlds, especially in Fantasy, SciFi, and Horror. Panelists discuss the most popular worlds in fiction and why they stand out, as well as how the panelists create the worlds they use in their fiction.
Speakers
avatar for Richard C. White

Richard C. White

Original and Media Tie-in Author. I write Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dark Fantasy, Fantasy Noir, Action-Adventure, Historical Fantasy, and Non-Fiction. I will be releasing up to 4 new books in 2026 and have been a panelist/guest at MystiCon nine times in the pre-Covid shows.

My works can be found at http://www.richardcwhite.com/bibliography... Read More →
avatar for Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters is an American author known for his genre-blending narratives that span thrillers, suspense, science fiction, and literary fiction. His stories often delve into the unexpected, exploring life's quirky tangents with a unique voice that combines humor and darkness... Read More →
avatar for Ray Tabler

Ray Tabler

Author, Science Fiction You Can Enjoy
My aim is to write science fiction you can enjoy. So far that's manifested as what I call Light Space Opera. Imagine Starship Troopers, hijacked by Monty Python, or space opera as produced by Gilbert and Sullivan, while bankrolled and bullied by Flo Ziegfeld. Additional links:
Ray... Read More →
avatar for Evan Dicken

Evan Dicken

By day, EVAN DICKEN studies old Japanese maps and crunches research data at The Ohio State University. By night, he does neither of these things.

His short fiction has appeared in: Analog, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Strange Horizons, and he has written a hefty fistful of media tie-in novels for properties such as: Warhammer, Legend of the Five Rings, Banner Saga, and Arkham Horror... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Algonquin A

1:00pm EDT

Kill 'Em or Make 'Em Wish They Were Dead
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
In fiction (you can't really do this in nonfiction without getting arrested), you should be mean as hell to your characters. This is particularly true for genre fiction, and doubly so for Horror. In this panel, we'll discuss how far to go, whether it's okay to kill your protagonist (spoiler: I have no problem doing this), and how to do it in a way that won't leave the reader mad at you (probably).
Speakers
avatar for Ken MacGregor

Ken MacGregor

Ken is a Speculative Fiction (mostly Horror) author with four story collections, an award-winning YA/MG novella, and a novel he co-wrote with Kerry Lipp. He has edited three original anthologies (one co-edited with Douglas Gwilym), one of which was a finalist for the Shirley Jackson... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

1:00pm EDT

Self-Publishing 101
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Self-published authors discuss why they chose the self-published route and detail just how they went about publishing their own books.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans is an award-winning writer, editor, and teacher whose stories have appeared in more than 40 publications, including Apex Magazine, Love Letters to Poe, and Pseudopod. Her debut horror novel, Entomophobia, was released in 2022. You can read Sarah’s short stories in the... Read More →
avatar for Jean Davis

Jean Davis

Sci-fi & Fantasy Author
Jean Davis writes an array of speculative fiction and plays with chickens. She has written short story collections, a space opera series, stand-alone novels, children’s books about her chickens, many projects that aren’t yet finished, and a lot of pages that you will never se... Read More →
avatar for Tracy Barnett

Tracy Barnett

Penguicon, Guest of Honor, Penguicon 2022
Tracy Barnett (they/them) is an award-winning non-binary games designer, podcast and game editor, and project manager from Ohio. They have been making games for almost 10 years. They specialize in games prompted by feelings and deep with story. You can find them online, anywhere... Read More →
avatar for Katie Spina

Katie Spina

Author, Awesome Authors Kids
Ms. Katie is an award-winning kidlit author who writes stories for kids where finding your fit means trusting in who you are. An avid reader, she loves all sorts of books across a wide spectrum. With a Bachelor's degree in Writing from the University of Michigan-Flint, she is a professional... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Blackstream

Jennifer Blackstream

Author
"Jennifer Blackstream is a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and fantasy romance. She is amazed and grateful to have made a writing career out of a Master’s degree in Psychology, hours of couch-detecting watching Murder She Wrote, and endless research into mythology... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Algonquin D

1:00pm EDT

Kaffeeklatsch - Storm Michael Humbert
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Spend an hour sitting, drinking coffee, and talking with Storm Michael Humbert.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Hamlin

1:00pm EDT

Intro to Self Defense
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
This panel is about dipping your toes into the world of self-defense training. An hour long Q&A. Ask your "What If"s, get thoughts and opinions not just from myself but from other attendees that are experienced.
Speakers
avatar for Derek Newland

Derek Newland

I enjoy being a technician, from cars and computers to welding and electrical motors. Fixing and building things has always been fun for me.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Algonquin C

1:00pm EDT

Mead: It's Not Just For Vikings Anymore
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Novice methier Michael Cieslak will present the basics of mead making including a presentation of the gear you need to make your own honey wine. He will also share humorous stories from his own mead making. If we're lucky, there will be mead on hand to sample.
Speakers
MC

Michael Cieslak

Dragon's Roost Press
Michael Cieslak is a lifetime reader and writer of horror, mystery, and speculative fiction. A native of Detroit, he lives in a house covered in Halloween decorations in October and dragons the rest of the year. He is a member of the Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers and is... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Board of Regents

1:00pm EDT

Cherry's Chambers
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
A ready-to-use setting for role-playing games and fiction in a very different kind of dungeon.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Board of Govenors

1:00pm EDT

Rawson's Realms - The Wild Wild West
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Rawson's Realms is a Dungeons and Dragons event where we introduce players of any experience level to our one-shot style gameplay with a focus on character improv and combat. With homebrewed mechanics, characters to choose from, and unlimited creative energy, get ready to enter RAWSON'S REALMS! The game itself is simplified for time purposes but packed with tons of fun! We use lights, sounds, and production elements seen in live entertainment to amplify experiences for others.
Speakers
avatar for Summer Rawson

Summer Rawson

Owner/DM, Rawson’s Realms
Summer "Rawson" Matkin is a multimedia juggernaut based in Downriver, MI. She began her media work in 2015, through amateur filmmaking and creating Youtube videos. With a keen eye for visual storytelling, Summer specializes in using film and live media to create engaging, character... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Board of Govenors

2:00pm EDT

Ask a Baker!
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
What IS creaming? Why did my thing do that thing? How does bread....bread? A professional baker answers your questions on the great mysteries of the mixing bowl.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Charlevoix C

2:00pm EDT

The World of Solo Gaming
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
The greatest enemy of the gaming hobby has always been scheduling. Trying to find people to play with, or against, who are free at the same time that you are free. This is an old problem and there is an option: Solo Gaming. While it may not be as fun as playing a game with friends, solo gaming can be a fun way to still game even when you are the only one who is free.
Speakers
avatar for John Patrick

John Patrick

I like to consider myself a "Nerd of All Seasons." I play and collect many board games, card games, RPGs and miniature wargames. I read almost anything that seemes interesting but especially love sci-fi, cyberpunk, and local history. I am a bit of a tinkerer and enjoy conversation... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Algonquin B

2:00pm EDT

The Comfort Cocoon
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
This follow-up to my previous talk this weekend, about how to avoid starting a cult, discusses the equal and opposite problem of hyper-individuated alienation. Almost everyone abandons voluntary associations at the slightest friction. Life is reduced to employment, a spouse, children, pets, and maybe some extended family. A life without voluntary associations is frictionless and predictable, but group skills atrophy, leading to anxiety. This is not a moral failing, just a predictable cultural drift. What can we do, without nagging or shaming, to make group life worth the trouble?
Speakers
avatar for Matt Arnold

Matt Arnold

Over the past 20 years, Matt has served in almost every position and every level of leadership in Penguicon. He has served as a Board Director and President at i3Detroit hacker space. Professionally, Matt designs and publishes board games, develops websites, makes custom Minecraft... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Algonquin C

2:00pm EDT

Author Signing - Evan Dicken
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Author Signing - Evan Dicken
Speakers
avatar for Evan Dicken

Evan Dicken

By day, EVAN DICKEN studies old Japanese maps and crunches research data at The Ohio State University. By night, he does neither of these things.

His short fiction has appeared in: Analog, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Strange Horizons, and he has written a hefty fistful of media tie-in novels for properties such as: Warhammer, Legend of the Five Rings, Banner Saga, and Arkham Horror... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Bookstore

2:00pm EDT

How To Stay Human in the Time of AI
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
With AI books flooding the market, how do we, as creators, stand out and connect with our audience? The panel will discuss tips and strategies to authentically connect with readers and rise above the AI slop.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Loree

Stephanie Loree

Freelance Writer & Copy Editor, Jinx Publishing LLC
Born and still based in Ohio, Stephanie Lorée writes fantasy fiction and occasionally moonlights as a rock star. Her stories have appeared in places like Abyss & Apex and as tie-in fiction for the Pathfinder RPG. In 2013, she was a finalist for the Writers of the Future award... Read More →
avatar for Katie Spina

Katie Spina

Author, Awesome Authors Kids
Ms. Katie is an award-winning kidlit author who writes stories for kids where finding your fit means trusting in who you are. An avid reader, she loves all sorts of books across a wide spectrum. With a Bachelor's degree in Writing from the University of Michigan-Flint, she is a professional... Read More →
avatar for Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle is a multi-genre author whose latest release, Heavy Are The Stones, is a serial killer thriller co-authored with New York Times bestselling author J.D. Barker. She and Barker are also collaborating on a reboot of Flatliners, based on the original screenplay.  Christine... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Algonquin D

2:00pm EDT

The Paths to Publishing
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
An exploration of the various paths to becoming a published author and finding your audience, whether you want to be traditionally published, published with small or medium presses, or self-published.
Speakers
avatar for Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson is a writer and poet from Ohio. His new fantasy novel Strange Animals was called "a wholly captivating tale of magic and nature" by Publishers Weekly. His book about nature and mental health Something in the Woods Loves You was praised as a "brilliantly poignant... Read More →
avatar for Jean Davis

Jean Davis

Sci-fi & Fantasy Author
Jean Davis writes an array of speculative fiction and plays with chickens. She has written short story collections, a space opera series, stand-alone novels, children’s books about her chickens, many projects that aren’t yet finished, and a lot of pages that you will never se... Read More →
avatar for Matt Betts

Matt Betts

Writer/Poet and Programmer for the UA Library, UA Library
Talk to me about horror, pop culture, poetry, scifi, books, movies! I want it all!

I'm writer and poet, and I develop programming for the Upper Arlington Public Library.
avatar for Ray Tabler

Ray Tabler

Author, Science Fiction You Can Enjoy
My aim is to write science fiction you can enjoy. So far that's manifested as what I call Light Space Opera. Imagine Starship Troopers, hijacked by Monty Python, or space opera as produced by Gilbert and Sullivan, while bankrolled and bullied by Flo Ziegfeld. Additional links:
Ray... Read More →
avatar for Llewella Forgie

Llewella Forgie

Llewella Forgie is an award-wining author who creates stories of tenacious women battling injustice and creating their own happily-ever-after. Her current work-in-progress is a pentalogy that takes place in Europe in 1802. France is planning to invade, people with psychic powers have... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Algonquin A

2:00pm EDT

Reading-Valtinen Erik Karille, Vera West, A. Carina Spears
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Listen to readings by Valtinen Erik Karille, Vera West, A. Carina Spears
Speakers
avatar for A. Carina Spears

A. Carina Spears

Author, Guild House Classic
I'm one of the Shinigami Kami. I know way too much about something most people probably aren't familiar with. If you want to talk about Shinigami/Grim Reapers, awesome.
I write horror, romance, and fantasy. I also enjoy writing challenges and to that end am playing with fan-fictio... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Hamlin

2:00pm EDT

Dead Man's Draw
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Dead Man's draw is a pirate-themed, push your luck, card game. Each game is relatively short, and a player can go from dominating to losing everything to winning the game in the span of minutes. Luck is obviously a factor, but judgement and strategy are crucial as well. Grab a bottle of rum (or coke) and start the con off with daring, cut-throat action!  
Speakers
avatar for Lloyd Williams

Lloyd Williams

Programming Concom
I am a long-time gamer, both of board games and RPGs. I love good sci-fi and fantasy novels so tell me about any new authors you like.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Nicolet

2:00pm EDT

GoHs Play Sentinels Of The Multiverse
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Guests of Honor will play a game of Sentinels of the Multiverse with each other, and attendees may spectate. This will happen on the table with the power outlets in the lobby, between the grand staircase and concessions.
Speakers
avatar for Tracy Barnett

Tracy Barnett

Penguicon, Guest of Honor, Penguicon 2022
Tracy Barnett (they/them) is an award-winning non-binary games designer, podcast and game editor, and project manager from Ohio. They have been making games for almost 10 years. They specialize in games prompted by feelings and deep with story. You can find them online, anywhere... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Blackstream

Jennifer Blackstream

Author
"Jennifer Blackstream is a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and fantasy romance. She is amazed and grateful to have made a writing career out of a Master’s degree in Psychology, hours of couch-detecting watching Murder She Wrote, and endless research into mythology... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

3:00pm EDT

GODOT 101 - Making Games with Open Source Tools
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
GODOT is a powerful and open source game engine that you can use to make your own video games. The engine is easy to learn with lots of great tutorials and detailed documentation for all skill levels. In this talk we will demonstrate some of the functionality that GODOT has, resources for people want to learn more, and build a simple game with participant feedback.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Algonquin B

3:00pm EDT

A Family Friendly Chemical Magic Show
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
A kid-friendly, family friendly series of chemistry demonstrations with prizes.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

3:00pm EDT

History of Personal Computers
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
This is a very lightweight walk through the history of personal computers. I really want to focus on the “golden age” (1973-1987). Pre-Windows “IBM clones”. 
Speakers
avatar for Keith Moore

Keith Moore

Jack of no trades.  Master of some. Proud father husband., 
Too many interests and hobbies to mention. Old computers, electronics, software, pre-war cars, pinball machines, pre-sound films, music, bee keeper, and more.

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Charlevoix C

3:00pm EDT

Intro to Linux for Absolute Beginners
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
A gentle walkthrough of what Linux is, why people care, and how to try it without breaking your computer. No prior technical knowledge assumed.
Speakers
avatar for Edward L. Platt

Edward L. Platt

Developer, Researcher, Author
I'm Ed. I create technology for communities and communities for technology. I'm also an artist, a hacker/maker, and a neuroscience fanboy. I have a PhD in Information Science from the University of Michigan and co-founded the i3 Detroit hackerspace. I am the author of "Network Science... Read More →
avatar for Mike Kwiatkowski

Mike Kwiatkowski

Instructor, Northwest State Community College
I am an instructor at at Northwest State Community College where I am the lead (or only!) faculty for the Electrical Engineering Tech and Computer Science Tech programs.  I have been a full-time instructor with the college for over 8 years.  Before that time I spent nearly 20 years... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Algonquin C

3:00pm EDT

Author Signing - Stephanie Loree
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Author Signing - Stephanie Loree
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Loree

Stephanie Loree

Freelance Writer & Copy Editor, Jinx Publishing LLC
Born and still based in Ohio, Stephanie Lorée writes fantasy fiction and occasionally moonlights as a rock star. Her stories have appeared in places like Abyss & Apex and as tie-in fiction for the Pathfinder RPG. In 2013, she was a finalist for the Writers of the Future award... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Bookstore

3:00pm EDT

Maintaining Motivation
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
A lot of writers struggle to finish a first draft. Pros offer tips and tricks to stick with and finish your book, even through the dreaded Middle.
Speakers
avatar for Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson is a writer and poet from Ohio. His new fantasy novel Strange Animals was called "a wholly captivating tale of magic and nature" by Publishers Weekly. His book about nature and mental health Something in the Woods Loves You was praised as a "brilliantly poignant... Read More →
avatar for Katie Spina

Katie Spina

Author, Awesome Authors Kids
Ms. Katie is an award-winning kidlit author who writes stories for kids where finding your fit means trusting in who you are. An avid reader, she loves all sorts of books across a wide spectrum. With a Bachelor's degree in Writing from the University of Michigan-Flint, she is a professional... Read More →
avatar for Evan Dicken

Evan Dicken

By day, EVAN DICKEN studies old Japanese maps and crunches research data at The Ohio State University. By night, he does neither of these things.

His short fiction has appeared in: Analog, Beneath Ceaseless Skies, and Strange Horizons, and he has written a hefty fistful of media tie-in novels for properties such as: Warhammer, Legend of the Five Rings, Banner Saga, and Arkham Horror... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Algonquin A

3:00pm EDT

Outline Like a Pro
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Outlining your novel can speed your writing and help you get to the finish line. Authors explore different ways to write an outline for your novel.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans is an award-winning writer, editor, and teacher whose stories have appeared in more than 40 publications, including Apex Magazine, Love Letters to Poe, and Pseudopod. Her debut horror novel, Entomophobia, was released in 2022. You can read Sarah’s short stories in the... Read More →
avatar for Matt Betts

Matt Betts

Writer/Poet and Programmer for the UA Library, UA Library
Talk to me about horror, pop culture, poetry, scifi, books, movies! I want it all!

I'm writer and poet, and I develop programming for the Upper Arlington Public Library.
avatar for Llewella Forgie

Llewella Forgie

Llewella Forgie is an award-wining author who creates stories of tenacious women battling injustice and creating their own happily-ever-after. Her current work-in-progress is a pentalogy that takes place in Europe in 1802. France is planning to invade, people with psychic powers have... Read More →
avatar for Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle is a multi-genre author whose latest release, Heavy Are The Stones, is a serial killer thriller co-authored with New York Times bestselling author J.D. Barker. She and Barker are also collaborating on a reboot of Flatliners, based on the original screenplay.  Christine... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Algonquin D

3:00pm EDT

Worldbuilding Through Food
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
How cuisine, trade, and scarcity shape believable fictional cultures more than maps or magic systems ever will.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Montcalm

3:00pm EDT

Reading-Ken MacGregor, Leslie Gulvas, Michael Cieslak
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Listen to readings by Ken MacGregor, Leslie Gulvas, Michael Cieslak
Speakers
avatar for Ken MacGregor

Ken MacGregor

Ken is a Speculative Fiction (mostly Horror) author with four story collections, an award-winning YA/MG novella, and a novel he co-wrote with Kerry Lipp. He has edited three original anthologies (one co-edited with Douglas Gwilym), one of which was a finalist for the Shirley Jackson... Read More →
avatar for Leslie Gulvas

Leslie Gulvas

I'm a collector of experiences and writer of both fact and fiction. I live on a farm with a giant wolf hound, a disgruntled guard pig, silly cats and an old gray horseMy books are:
Carnival Charlatan an urban fantasy,
Brenda's House a middle grade ghost story, and
Off the Reservatio... Read More →
MC

Michael Cieslak

Dragon's Roost Press
Michael Cieslak is a lifetime reader and writer of horror, mystery, and speculative fiction. A native of Detroit, he lives in a house covered in Halloween decorations in October and dragons the rest of the year. He is a member of the Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers and is... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Hamlin

3:00pm EDT

Black Butler Tea Party
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Relax for a while with your favorite Shinigami/Grim Reapers and enjoy some tea, games, and maybe win some prizes. Just a cozy cool-down between other events
Speakers
avatar for A. Carina Spears

A. Carina Spears

Author, Guild House Classic
I'm one of the Shinigami Kami. I know way too much about something most people probably aren't familiar with. If you want to talk about Shinigami/Grim Reapers, awesome.
I write horror, romance, and fantasy. I also enjoy writing challenges and to that end am playing with fan-fictio... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Board of Regents

4:00pm EDT

Home Alternative Energy Solutions
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Having spent the last 15 years doing (largely) DIY wind and solar setups for myself, as well as limited battery backups, generator tie-ins, and solar grid tie-ins, I would like to share my experience and sources with anyone wanting to test the waters and maybe do their own small or single house setup. Learn about low voltage and high voltage DC, battery backups, and optimal positioning.
Speakers
avatar for Derek Newland

Derek Newland

I enjoy being a technician, from cars and computers to welding and electrical motors. Fixing and building things has always been fun for me.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

4:00pm EDT

A Brief History of High-voltage Display Technologies
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Before there were LEDs and TFTs, electronic devices through the 20th century required ingenious ways of delivering information to the users of radios, televisions and early computers. Think about what it would be like if you had a computer with no display screen of any kind.  For almost 70 years, this was a problem for all electronics. There are hundreds of interesting technologies that tried to address this problem. Some are very practical, and others are downright crazy. And when you add in the fact that all of them run at high voltages (higher than 100 volts in most cases), it adds to the mystique.  This interactive session will share this history from the 19th through the 20th century with some hands-on examples of all of the major innovations of that era: Vacuum tubes, Nixie tubes, Magic eyes, CRTs, and many others.
Speakers
avatar for Keith Moore

Keith Moore

Jack of no trades.  Master of some. Proud father husband., 
Too many interests and hobbies to mention. Old computers, electronics, software, pre-war cars, pinball machines, pre-sound films, music, bee keeper, and more.

Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Charlevoix C

4:00pm EDT

Retro Game Emulation with Raspberry Pi
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Will demonstrate and assist assembly of a Raspberry Pi 4/5 kit then go over methods of running retro game emulation on the Pi platform. This will include flashing a microSD card with a popular emulation software, going over some OS setup, and how to load and play games via USB stick. We will then demonstrate a few emulated systems and control options including modern console controllers and legacy CRT light gun hardware.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Algonquin C

4:00pm EDT

Author Signing - Llewellla Forgie
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Author Signing - Llewellla Forgie
Speakers
avatar for Llewella Forgie

Llewella Forgie

Llewella Forgie is an award-wining author who creates stories of tenacious women battling injustice and creating their own happily-ever-after. Her current work-in-progress is a pentalogy that takes place in Europe in 1802. France is planning to invade, people with psychic powers have... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Bookstore

4:00pm EDT

Creating Compelling Characters with Agency
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Authors explain how they come up with characters that are complex, believable, and compelling to read about.
Speakers
avatar for Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle

Christine Daigle is a multi-genre author whose latest release, Heavy Are The Stones, is a serial killer thriller co-authored with New York Times bestselling author J.D. Barker. She and Barker are also collaborating on a reboot of Flatliners, based on the original screenplay.  Christine... Read More →
avatar for Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters

Paul Michael Peters is an American author known for his genre-blending narratives that span thrillers, suspense, science fiction, and literary fiction. His stories often delve into the unexpected, exploring life's quirky tangents with a unique voice that combines humor and darkness... Read More →
avatar for Jean Davis

Jean Davis

Sci-fi & Fantasy Author
Jean Davis writes an array of speculative fiction and plays with chickens. She has written short story collections, a space opera series, stand-alone novels, children’s books about her chickens, many projects that aren’t yet finished, and a lot of pages that you will never se... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Algonquin A

4:00pm EDT

We Love to Be Scared
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Horror authors discuss why readers love the horror genre, why they write it, and what modern classics you should check out.
Speakers
MC

Michael Cieslak

Dragon's Roost Press
Michael Cieslak is a lifetime reader and writer of horror, mystery, and speculative fiction. A native of Detroit, he lives in a house covered in Halloween decorations in October and dragons the rest of the year. He is a member of the Great Lakes Association of Horror Writers and is... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans is an award-winning writer, editor, and teacher whose stories have appeared in more than 40 publications, including Apex Magazine, Love Letters to Poe, and Pseudopod. Her debut horror novel, Entomophobia, was released in 2022. You can read Sarah’s short stories in the... Read More →
avatar for Ken MacGregor

Ken MacGregor

Ken is a Speculative Fiction (mostly Horror) author with four story collections, an award-winning YA/MG novella, and a novel he co-wrote with Kerry Lipp. He has edited three original anthologies (one co-edited with Douglas Gwilym), one of which was a finalist for the Shirley Jackson... Read More →
avatar for Matt Betts

Matt Betts

Writer/Poet and Programmer for the UA Library, UA Library
Talk to me about horror, pop culture, poetry, scifi, books, movies! I want it all!

I'm writer and poet, and I develop programming for the Upper Arlington Public Library.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Algonquin D

4:00pm EDT

Reading-Ray Tabler, Storm Humbert, Katie Spina
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Listen to readings by Ray Tabler, Storm Humbert, Katie Spina
Speakers
avatar for Ray Tabler

Ray Tabler

Author, Science Fiction You Can Enjoy
My aim is to write science fiction you can enjoy. So far that's manifested as what I call Light Space Opera. Imagine Starship Troopers, hijacked by Monty Python, or space opera as produced by Gilbert and Sullivan, while bankrolled and bullied by Flo Ziegfeld. Additional links:
Ray... Read More →
avatar for Katie Spina

Katie Spina

Author, Awesome Authors Kids
Ms. Katie is an award-winning kidlit author who writes stories for kids where finding your fit means trusting in who you are. An avid reader, she loves all sorts of books across a wide spectrum. With a Bachelor's degree in Writing from the University of Michigan-Flint, she is a professional... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 4:50pm EDT
Hamlin

4:00pm EDT

Royal Manticorian Navy Reception
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
The Royal Manticorian Navy welcomes Penguicon to eat snacks, drink beverages (especially hot chocolate!) and mingle with fans of the Honorverse.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Portage auditorium

5:00pm EDT

Doctor Who BoF
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Gather together with fellow Whovians to discuss your favourite monsters, your least favourite stories, and the current state of the show!
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

5:00pm EDT

Networking Tips from IT in the D
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Learn from the founders of IT in the D how to maximize your network. IT in the D has been running monthly networking events for 19 years and have learned a thing or two. Get some real world tips, ideas, and ways to build and maxmize your network.
Speakers
avatar for Randy Walker

Randy Walker

Cohost / Cofounder, IT in the D / Detroit Podcasting Company
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Algonquin D

5:00pm EDT

Author Signing - David Weber
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Author Signing - David Weber
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Bookstore

5:00pm EDT

Poetry Isn't Dead, It's Undead
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
A discussion of how to write poetry that resonates with a broad audience and challenges traditional ideas of verse. Poets will discuss speculative poetry and how the use of science fiction and horror tropes can make it more accessible. Panelists will also detail markets and opportunities for speculative poets, and give the audience prompts to help them get started on their own poems.
Speakers
avatar for Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson

Jarod K. Anderson is a writer and poet from Ohio. His new fantasy novel Strange Animals was called "a wholly captivating tale of magic and nature" by Publishers Weekly. His book about nature and mental health Something in the Woods Loves You was praised as a "brilliantly poignant... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans is an award-winning writer, editor, and teacher whose stories have appeared in more than 40 publications, including Apex Magazine, Love Letters to Poe, and Pseudopod. Her debut horror novel, Entomophobia, was released in 2022. You can read Sarah’s short stories in the... Read More →
avatar for Matt Betts

Matt Betts

Writer/Poet and Programmer for the UA Library, UA Library
Talk to me about horror, pop culture, poetry, scifi, books, movies! I want it all!

I'm writer and poet, and I develop programming for the Upper Arlington Public Library.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Algonquin A

5:00pm EDT

What Is Style, and Do I Have It?
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
This workshop with Storm Humber will focus on breaking down what it means to have a prose style (spoiler, everyone does) and how we go about discovering, fine-tuning, foregrounding, and capitalizing on our personal styles.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Montcalm

5:00pm EDT

Kaffeeklatsch - Valtinen Erik Karille, and Stephanie Loree
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Spend an hour sitting, drinking coffee, and talking with Valtinen Erik Karille, and Stephanie Loree.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Loree

Stephanie Loree

Freelance Writer & Copy Editor, Jinx Publishing LLC
Born and still based in Ohio, Stephanie Lorée writes fantasy fiction and occasionally moonlights as a rock star. Her stories have appeared in places like Abyss & Apex and as tie-in fiction for the Pathfinder RPG. In 2013, she was a finalist for the Writers of the Future award... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 5:50pm EDT
Hamlin

5:00pm EDT

Taxes for Sex Workers, Carnies, and Gig Workers (and Any Other Small Business)
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Intro to business income taxes for small businesses, partnerships, LLCs, S-Corps and the like.
Speakers
MG

Mel Gilchrist

This website contains all the files I use for teaching my business income tax: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1XJ6ljE6o1BW9kyK9GzuCR-u0anOZssbJ
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Algonquin B

5:00pm EDT

3-D printed Bluetooth Speaker
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
In this Penguicon fundraiser special event, we will be building our own open source Bluetooth Speaker, using the ESP32 Audio Kit developer board and Squeezelite firmware. Build your own custom 3D printed bluetooth speaker with the Penguicon logo on it, and learn more about the ESP32/Squeezelite platform, and then take your custom 3D printed bluetooth speaker home with you.
Speakers
avatar for Norman Witte III

Norman Witte III

Software Engineer/Deejay Extrordinaire
I live in my own mind, ain't nothin but a good time.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Board of Regents

6:00pm EDT

Consent, Boundaries, and Geek Spaces
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
A practical discussion of how conventions and fan communities can build healthier social norms.
Speakers
avatar for Linnea Sieh

Linnea Sieh

Questing for Change
Just a nerdy therapist out to break stigma around mental health. Happy to talk about my dog, TTRPGs, video games, sewing/crafting, or baking!
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Algonquin D

6:00pm EDT

The Panel about Panels
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Meta-discussion of what makes a convention panel succeed or fail.
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Eldridge

Kristen Eldridge

Project Manager, Sword of Odin
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

6:00pm EDT

Royal Manticorian Navy Awards ceremony
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
The Royal Manticorian Navy will recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of their members.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Portage auditorium

6:00pm EDT

How to Succeed at Vibecoding Without Really Trying
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
There are only three things you need to do to produce large volumes of high-quality code using robot friends, and you should be doing two of them already. This talk will explain all.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Algonquin A

6:00pm EDT

Technical Writing - My Journey
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
So you want to become a technical writer. If you're in it for the money or the glowing admiration of your fans, might I suggest writing Urban Fantasy Porn instead? I would like this to be an open exchange about the journey and process.
Speakers
avatar for Mark Haynes

Mark Haynes

STEM, Dmarkhaynes Consulting
I’m a renaissance man trapped in a specialist’s body. My degree is in biology. That’s why I’m IT. I’ve worked as a software developer, with an elegant language for a more civilized age. I became a QA guy because breaking things is therapeutic. I became a process specialist... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Algonquin C

6:00pm EDT

Dungeon Master Secret Society
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
DMs, GMs, Storytellers, Keepers, Facilitators, we are siblings behind the screen, the masters of the maps, the dealers of the dice! Gather to share tales of anguish and triumph, get advice, and seek support, whether you've been running games for twenty years or are still trying to schedule your first session.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Charlevoix C

7:00pm EDT

Impromptu - Being Prepared
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
I am a gamer, a convention attender, and a single dad.  Over the years, I have learned that in many situations, there is no substitute for being prepared.  But what does that mean?  You can not be prepared for absolutely everything, but with a few simple preparations, you can be prepared for many things.  In this panel, we will go over making a small everyday first aid kit, a good "Adventure Bag", and having an emergency Go Bag.
Speakers
avatar for John Patrick

John Patrick

I like to consider myself a "Nerd of All Seasons." I play and collect many board games, card games, RPGs and miniature wargames. I read almost anything that seemes interesting but especially love sci-fi, cyberpunk, and local history. I am a bit of a tinkerer and enjoy conversation... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Montcalm

7:00pm EDT

Anime Witches- Fun & Fantastic
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Witches have been weaving their spells in anime since the 60’s, while launching the Magical Girl genre. Whether it’s enchanting hijinks, learning their craft at a snooty school, chilling out, saving the world, or trying to end the Hundred-Years’ War in France, these witches are up for any challenge!
Speakers
avatar for Paul Kemner

Paul Kemner

Paul's a bit older than Godzilla, watched the original broadcast of
the Astro Boy series, and has been a fan of anime ever since. Finally retired as a database guy, he works on his 108 secret skills, studies
ancient & modern polytheist religions, plays exotic instruments, and
writes... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Portage auditorium

7:00pm EDT

Warfare In Science Fiction - A Survey
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
A group discussion on how warfare is portrayed in science fiction. Examples include David Weber's Honorverse, Heinlein's Starship Troopers, Joe Haldeman's Starship Troopers and Arkady Martine's A Desolation Called Peace. Come with your knowledge and questions.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Beeler

Jeff Beeler

Stilyagi Air Corps
Event planning
Science Fiction
Gaming
History
Reference work
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

7:00pm EDT

Surround Sound and TV Setup and Calibration
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Demonstrate how to connect and properly setup a surround sound system and display. This will include professional level calibration of the speakers and display as well as best practices for speaker placement and TV height and distances. May also go over wall mounting a TV if interest is there.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Algonquin C

7:00pm EDT

Wordpress
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
WordPress is open-source software that powers over 40% of the web, making it a great tool for establishing a stable home base online. As platforms ebb and flow, WordPress lets you control your content, your data, and your design. In this session, I’ll build a self-hosted WordPress site from scratch, live, walking through prerequisites, installation, essential setup, customization, and publishing. In this session, you’ll see how approachable it is to launch something you truly own and how to take control of your online presence.
Speakers
avatar for Randy Walker

Randy Walker

Cohost / Cofounder, IT in the D / Detroit Podcasting Company
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Algonquin D

7:00pm EDT

Why Horror?
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
A discussion of what draws people, especially young people, to the horror genre. Why some people are drawn to horror at a very young age.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Blackstream

Jennifer Blackstream

Author
"Jennifer Blackstream is a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and fantasy romance. She is amazed and grateful to have made a writing career out of a Master’s degree in Psychology, hours of couch-detecting watching Murder She Wrote, and endless research into mythology... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Board of Trustees

7:00pm EDT

DaggerHeart - The Tomb of the Everliving
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 11:50pm EDT
Using the new Daggerheart RPG, we will make characters and send them deep underground to plumb the mysterious Tomb of the Everliving. Expect to encounter mysteries, treasure, and threats from a distant age!
Speakers
avatar for Lloyd Williams

Lloyd Williams

Programming Concom
I am a long-time gamer, both of board games and RPGs. I love good sci-fi and fantasy novels so tell me about any new authors you like.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 11:50pm EDT
Board of Govenors

8:00pm EDT

Disability BoF
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
A roundtable discussion-style low pressure hangout. You can sit and listen, vent, or ask questions. In the past, we've talked about the ins and outs of living with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, asthma, cerebral palsy, amputation, blindness, migraine, fibromyalgia, mental illness, accessibility issues and wins, and more. Disabilities can be visible or invisible, terminal, chronic, and more, so come chat with your fellow Penguipeeps who understand.
Speakers
avatar for Josie

Josie

Josie (she/they) is a disabled autistic with EDS and several additional rare disorders that keep life "interesting". She advocates for the disabled and neurodivergent communities and encourages adaptation and accessibility so everyone feels welcome. 

With a background in special ... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Charlevoix C

8:00pm EDT

Real-World Romance: Anime Rebellion
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Romance is one of the largest and fastest-growing genres of manga, and successful ones become anime series. Similar to the “Clean Romance” literary genre, these stories stress building relationships, emotional connections, and character development without graphic content. This time we’re covering romances without fantasy elements. School romances are popular (and we’ll tell you why), but there are plenty with adult characters too. If you hate Hallmark movies, these series may just be for you.
Speakers
avatar for A. Carina Spears

A. Carina Spears

Author, Guild House Classic
I'm one of the Shinigami Kami. I know way too much about something most people probably aren't familiar with. If you want to talk about Shinigami/Grim Reapers, awesome.
I write horror, romance, and fantasy. I also enjoy writing challenges and to that end am playing with fan-fictio... Read More →
avatar for Paul Kemner

Paul Kemner

Paul's a bit older than Godzilla, watched the original broadcast of
the Astro Boy series, and has been a fan of anime ever since. Finally retired as a database guy, he works on his 108 secret skills, studies
ancient & modern polytheist religions, plays exotic instruments, and
writes... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Portage auditorium

8:00pm EDT

Fantasy+Romance=Romantasy
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
"Romantasy" is considered by many to be a hot "new" genre. What's the deal?
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans is an award-winning writer, editor, and teacher whose stories have appeared in more than 40 publications, including Apex Magazine, Love Letters to Poe, and Pseudopod. Her debut horror novel, Entomophobia, was released in 2022. You can read Sarah’s short stories in the... Read More →
avatar for Ray Tabler

Ray Tabler

Author, Science Fiction You Can Enjoy
My aim is to write science fiction you can enjoy. So far that's manifested as what I call Light Space Opera. Imagine Starship Troopers, hijacked by Monty Python, or space opera as produced by Gilbert and Sullivan, while bankrolled and bullied by Flo Ziegfeld. Additional links:
Ray... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer Blackstream

Jennifer Blackstream

Author
"Jennifer Blackstream is a USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy and fantasy romance. She is amazed and grateful to have made a writing career out of a Master’s degree in Psychology, hours of couch-detecting watching Murder She Wrote, and endless research into mythology... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

8:00pm EDT

Reading-Matt Betts, Jean Davis
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Listen to readings by Matt Betts, Jean Davis
Speakers
avatar for Matt Betts

Matt Betts

Writer/Poet and Programmer for the UA Library, UA Library
Talk to me about horror, pop culture, poetry, scifi, books, movies! I want it all!

I'm writer and poet, and I develop programming for the Upper Arlington Public Library.
avatar for Jean Davis

Jean Davis

Sci-fi & Fantasy Author
Jean Davis writes an array of speculative fiction and plays with chickens. She has written short story collections, a space opera series, stand-alone novels, children’s books about her chickens, many projects that aren’t yet finished, and a lot of pages that you will never se... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Hamlin

8:00pm EDT

Rock Band Open Play
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 10:50pm EDT
Equipment for an open Rock Band play area will be available in the evenings, as will Mario Kart and a selection of emulated retro games.
Speakers
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 10:50pm EDT
Algonquin C

8:00pm EDT

Dance Party
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 11:50pm EDT
Everyone can stop by and dance to epic 80's music, as well as a selection of others picked by DJ Meph.
Speakers
avatar for Norman Witte III

Norman Witte III

Software Engineer/Deejay Extrordinaire
I live in my own mind, ain't nothin but a good time.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 11:50pm EDT
Algonquin A

9:00pm EDT

WTF is This?! The Weird World of the Internet
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 9:50pm EDT
Hour Long Comedy variety panel meant to be a showcase of the strangest content that the internet has to offer.
Speakers
avatar for Sergio Bermudez

Sergio Bermudez

So You Think You Can Fanon
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 9:50pm EDT
Charlevoix C

9:00pm EDT

Keep it Spicy: Writing Intimate Scenes
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 9:50pm EDT
This is a late-night panel where writers discuss the dos and don'ts of writing physically intimate scenes.
Speakers
avatar for A. Carina Spears

A. Carina Spears

Author, Guild House Classic
I'm one of the Shinigami Kami. I know way too much about something most people probably aren't familiar with. If you want to talk about Shinigami/Grim Reapers, awesome.
I write horror, romance, and fantasy. I also enjoy writing challenges and to that end am playing with fan-fictio... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans

Sarah Hans is an award-winning writer, editor, and teacher whose stories have appeared in more than 40 publications, including Apex Magazine, Love Letters to Poe, and Pseudopod. Her debut horror novel, Entomophobia, was released in 2022. You can read Sarah’s short stories in the... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Loree

Stephanie Loree

Freelance Writer & Copy Editor, Jinx Publishing LLC
Born and still based in Ohio, Stephanie Lorée writes fantasy fiction and occasionally moonlights as a rock star. Her stories have appeared in places like Abyss & Apex and as tie-in fiction for the Pathfinder RPG. In 2013, she was a finalist for the Writers of the Future award... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 9:50pm EDT
Charlevoix B

11:00pm EDT

Anime Midnight Madness: Three Episodes Too Weird for Daytime
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00pm - Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00am EDT
Three episodes selected for maximum strangeness, screened at the hour they deserve. No content warnings, just the void staring back. You might want to bring a blanket.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Kemner

Paul Kemner

Paul's a bit older than Godzilla, watched the original broadcast of
the Astro Boy series, and has been a fan of anime ever since. Finally retired as a database guy, he works on his 108 secret skills, studies
ancient & modern polytheist religions, plays exotic instruments, and
writes... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00pm - Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00am EDT
Portage auditorium
 
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