Like most Penguicon attendees, i had a fabulous weekend. But when you're volunteering, or working the dealer's room, or both, you see a different convention than most of the 600+ SF fan and open source attendees.
No RHPS or Buffy : The Musical shadow performances, no Chaos Machine, games, hot tubbing Star Trek gripe sessions with Gene Roddenberry Jr., scotch tasting <whimper>, or open crafting for me. No SubGenius room party, 'cause i didn't throw one. i didn't catch many panels i wasn't on, but Folk Art and Copyright with Cory Doctorow, Joe Saul, and Cathy Raymond was very interesting (not least because Cory's presentation sold me on Powerpoint and its clones). As a collageist/mixologist/folk artist, Cory's preaching to a convert, and Cathy gave me a better understanding of how lawyers actually view property rights in general.
Saw the Masquerade, which, though small, was mighty. i'd have some pics, but the ballroom's lighting was too poor for my puny flash. Instead, Took got a picture of the three lovely judges, Cathy Raymond, Francine Rossi, and Joan Vinge.
Which brings me to another feature of Penguicon, guest accessibility. Guests i never saw in presentations, like Dr. Peter Salus, were chatting folks up in the common areas. We hope he'll be back next year, because he's such a great guy! i was thrilled to meet Joan Vinge at my table. The small size of the event, the hospitality of the Sheraton Novi, and the care and selection skills of the convention committee and guest liaisons give opportunities to meet everyone even if you miss panels, readings and signings. i was so busy packing stuff for my table that i forgot the books i wanted to have signed! But, at least there are pictures (thank you, Helpful Took!). Keep watching Penguicon's website for info on Penguicon 4.0.
Excellent picture, Helpful Took! You can hardly see my extra chin at all!
Posted by: franciner | April 26, 2005 at 06:59 PM