I’ve gone to at least one convention a year since 1970, when I was 15. But due to the pandemic, that 50-year streak is at an end. Luckily, virtual gatherings have risen to take the place of the traditional meatspace ones, and the next of those I’ll attend will be C’monfluence 2020, which runs from October 2-4.

I’m grateful to the organizers of this event for creating a space where community can continue to flourish even during these difficult times.

Here’s my schedule —

Podcast Panel
Friday, October 2, 2020, 5:00 p.m.
Podcasters talk about how they put together material, how they use podcasting to strengthen their brand and possibly some of their plans to use podcasting for their own nefarious ends.
with Alan Bailey, Gail Carriger, Neil Clarke and J. Thorn

Kaffeeklatsch/Literary Beer
Friday, October 2, 2020, 6:00 p.m.
Bring your beverage of choice and come hang out. This interactive, social chat is limited to 15 participants. Spaces may be determined via a lottery system.
with Mary Turzillo

Book Recs (not Wrecks)
Friday, October 2, 2020, 8:00 p.m.
Looking at newer books and what’s worth reading.
with Rachel Swirsky, Mary Soon Lee, and Michelle Sagara

Expand the Fan(base)
Saturday, October 3, 2020, 2:00 p.m.
Welcoming new generations and new books.
with Julie Czerneda, Jennifer Foehner Wells and Michael Arnzen

Information Please!
Saturday, October 3, 2020, 7:00 p.m.
Steven H Silver hosts a game show based on an old radio show in which he tries to stump a panel of experts with a series of trivia questions and brain teasers related to science fiction and fantasy.
with Steven H Silver, Cat Rambo, Julie Czerneda, and William Higgins

Feel the Love
Saturday, October 3, 2020, 10:00 p.m.
A late night panel that might be best not discussed in polite company.
with Kelly Robson, Gail Carriger, and Julie Czerneda

Check out the full Friday, Saturday, and Sunday schedules.

Hope to see you (or be seen by you) there!