MediaWest*Con/MediaWest*Con 2018

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Convention
Name: MediaWest*Con 2018
Dates: May 2016
Frequency:
Location: Lansing, Michigan
Type:
Focus: multi-fandom
Organization:
Founder:
Founding Date:
URL: Main Page
Progress Report 1
Progress Report 2
Progress Report 3
Program Grid
Program Book
Click here for related articles on Fanlore.

MediaWest*Con 38 was held May 25-28, 2018.

program book cover (unknown if original was in color)

From the program book:

It's hard to believe we've been doing this for 40 years (starting with T'Con in 1978). MediaWest*Con's focus has shifted and expanded over the years as we try to welcome new interests while retaining an emphasis on media science fiction and fantasy fandom, and we believe this makes us unique among conventions. Our basic format -- lots of panels on topics suggested by members and no official guests -- is what makes MW*C special to those who look forward to it every year, but it is limiting at the same time. Our intended audience is active fen, those who read and write fanfic, publish fanzines, make fannish videos, create fan art, do costuming, etc., or would like to.

Unfortunately, membership has been slowly declining for years, despite our efforts at promoting the con with limited resources. And as membership declines, costs of putting on the con continue to rise.

Lori will be available throughout the con at registration to listen to your ideas how to reverse the decline in membership and revitalize MW*C. There will also be a panel Sunday 11am in Delta Central and, of course, the traditional end-of-con Dead Dog panel Monday 11am in Regency C-D.

Initially Postponed

The membership deadline was extended to May 14, 2018.

On March 22, 2018, the con organizers wrote:

Thanks to everyone who answered the call to help try to increase membership to a sustainable level. Unfortunately, there has not been a significant uptick in memberships since then. Therefore, we have no choice but to postpone MediaWest*Con 38 until next year.

We hope people will understand that this is not an easy decision for us, and that it does NOT mean MW*C is dead. Rather, it gives us time to consider what changes may be necessary for MW*C to continue into the future (i.e. location, date, etc.). We are also looking into the possibility of some form of virtual MW*C somewhere online.

Apologies to those who have already made travel plans, etc.. We understand that this may be a major inconvenience for many, but we had little control over the timing as a decision had to be made by the hotel deadline to cancel without incurring very large monetary penalties, which left us with a very narrow window. We have tried to be as transparent as possible that there was an issue so that members were aware that it might be necessary to postpone MW*C 38. It has also been a particularly bad year for staff members, and we lost several due to health, family, and financial issues. Thanks to all those who stepped in to help.

Existing memberships will continue to be valid. Those who are unwilling to wait may request refunds (as usual, you can convert to Supporting and continue to receive Progress Reports, etc., or you can request a full refund). The same goes for Dealers tables. Not requesting a refund now does not mean you can’t request a refund later.

The Fan Quality Awards will continue taking nominations, and voting will be conducted as usual online and by mail, with the final results posted on the MW*C website.

As always, we encourage members to subscribe to the MW*C blog to keep up with the latest updates and announcements. We will continue to maintain the MW*C blog and website as your primary sources of information.

— Lori & Gordon [1]

Tidbits

sign advertising the 'Whose Line is it Anyway?" improv panel, going strong since 2008
lists of renewed and cancelled TV shows were posted
  • there were twenty dealers in the dealer's room (things for sale: fanart, zines, energy drinks, jewelry, buttons, media bears, wigs, glassware, crystals, things for your cat)
  • there was one hall dealer (jewelry)
  • there was a standing room 90 minute panel in which MW*C co-chairs Gordon Carleton and Lori Chapek-Carleton fielding questions from attendees about the future of MediaWest.
  • there were enthusiastic crowd and entertaining performers for the annual "Whose Line is it Anyway?" 2-hour live improv event
  • A complete list of renewed and canceled TV shows, arranged by network was prominently posted in the hotel lobby

Progress Reports

Staff

Co-Chairs (& your hosts) Lori Chapek-Carleton & Gordon Carleton would like to thank the following staffers and their assistants for all their hard work: Carol Lynn (Hotel Liaison), Scott Clark (Programming/Party Suite/Flyers), Barb Gompf (GoFers/Con Suite), Kim Vanderlaan (Pre-con Dealers), Jim & Brenda Gasahl (At-con Dealers), Keith Grunenwald & Seth Cutts (Security), Karen Klinck & Art Show/Auction Staff & Auctioneers, Jan Keeler (Fan Q), Andre Lieven (Masquerade), Sheryl Adsit (Fannish Video), Kim Dyer (Door Decoration), Laura Keeler-Britt (‘Zine Reading Room/Fan Fund), Carl Tielking (Lansing Liaison), and all the GoFers and volunteers without whom there could be no convention. It has been a particularly bad year for staff members, and we lost several (at least temporarily) due to health, family, and financial issues. Thanks to all those who have stepped in to help! Thanks to Scott Rosema for the super superhero cover and interior art. MW*C 38 logos by Gordon Carleton. [2]

Fanzine Reading Room

In 1982 the 'Zine Room began as simply the place to peruse fanzines in comfort and quiet -- well mostly quiet. Over the years, the Room found itself first becoming the caretaker of what became the MW*C Permanent Loan Collection which is the con's collection of fanzines (covering vintage and more current 'zines from almost 30 fandoms), then a display area for 'zines, new and otherwise that were being sold at the con was added. For about the last 15 years, the 'Zine Room has been the site of the SF/Media Fan Fund charity auction which has expanded greatly from its beginnings. The ‘Zine Room was Jan Gosnell’s pride & joy and we are glad it is continuing! 'Zine Room is in the Waverly Room, near the lobby elevators. [3]

Fan Fund

The SF/Media Fan Fund helps send a fan to a convention he/she would otherwise be unable to attend. As there were no nominations received this year there is no ballot. AUCTION: Many thanks to all those who donated items! The 2018 SF/Media Fan Fund Charity Auction will be held in the Fanzine Reading Room, located in the Waverly Room. In the past it has been jokingly called "the Fannish Yard Sale" and usually has a wide assortment of fannish goods. It can include artwork, fanzines, new T-shirts, tote-bags, books, jewelry, music CDs/cassettes, videos (both VHS and DVDs), and lots of media collectibles. What is offered each year depends on our wonderful donors. New items can be added until 6pm Saturday, so check in occasionally so you don't miss anything. The auction is silent bid style, see postings for hours. The last bid on the item at that time will be the winner. However, this auction also does "Quick Sale Price" which is higher than the minimum bid but means you can take your item with you immediately. When the auction ends, the room will be closed briefly to set up for immediate pick-up. ALL items sold must be picked up by 3pm on Monday. [4]

Vid Show

informal handwritten notice announcing the vidshow start times, photo by Scott Clark

In 2018, only 3 videos were shown, all from the same family."2 "regular" length and one short -- LOTR, Emergency, ST original."[5]

The SF/Media Fan Fund helps send a fan to a convention he/she would otherwise be unable to attend. All entries must be in VHS or DVD format. The entry should be the only material on the cassette/disk and should begin within a few seconds of starting the tape/disk. Mature, Gen, and Slash videos must be on separate cassettes/disks. Slash includes same-sex relationships (Queer As Folk, Will & Grace, Oz, etc.). Videos that more than hint about a physical relationship (Slash or Gen) should be labeled Mature.

[snipped]

Producers should send Sheryl the list of videos (in the order they appear on the tapes/disks) and specify Song/Title, Fandom/Multi-Fandom, Category, Mature, Gen, or Slash, and total running time of tape/disk. Please include producer names and contact info. If an entry has not been completed prior to that time, producers must be ready to provide the following information for each individual video: Song/Title, Fandom/Multi-Fandom, Category, Gen or Slash, if Mature (adult) content, and total running time of tape. Slash and Mature videos should be on separate tapes/disks from Gen (general audience) videos. Tape/disk entry info deadline is 11pm Thursday. All tapes and disks must be in the hands of the video competition organizer by 5 pm, Friday. Failure to follow entry rules may result in disqualification of all videos by that producer or group. There will be Gen, Mature, and Slash divisions for the categories below. There will be no award in categories in which there are no competing entries. Slash and Mature videos will be shown in separate groups, both groups will be shown after 9pm. The Mature rating includes videos of all orientations that are of an adult nature. This would include such "steamy" examples as the Bunnies from Hell "Addicted to Love" Wiseguy video of a dozen years ago (it certainly raised the ambient room temperature back in the old Waverly Room...). Also included would be songs with questionable lyrics, such as "Big Balls" from KOBA-TV -- which was ostensibly about large spheres, but was clearly intended to be a double entendre RE, ahem, manly endowment. These Mature tapes/disks should be placed on a separate tape/disk, for showing in a separate session after 9pm. The time limit per entry remains 15 minutes per producer, Mature, Slash, and Gen videos combined. Slash and Mature vids will be shown in separate groups, but both groups will be shown after 9pm. This will allow those who do not want to see Slash to leave after Mature vids are played. If a producer has any question about the rating of a particular video, there will be a screening session Thursday evening in the Fannish Video HQ (my room). It will be open to all producers who want to talk about video topics (not just ratings); this is the place to see if that "artsy" video really says what you want it to. [6]

Party Suite

FRIDAY, May 25:

4:00 – 6:00 PM Hunt a Killer – 1968 Rayhne
6:00 – 8:00 PM Hunt a Killer – 1968 Rayhne

SATURDAY, May 26:

1:00 – 3:00 PM Amazing Coloring Party Jynjyr, Mary Mousseau, Lorraine Anderson
3:00 – 5:00 PM The Professionals Party Kat
7:00 – 9:00 PM Party in Pajamas Rayhne

SUNDAY, May 27:

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Brunch with the Stachey-Callahans Candy A. & Vivian
1:00 – 3:00 PM Tea with Houdini & Doyle Storyfan
3:00 – 5:00 PM Hunt a Killer -- 1968 Rayhne

Skits

We are hoping to have a couple blasts from the past – slideshows The Capture (1976 Hugo nominee written by Bob Asprin and illustrated by Phil Foglio) and Supraman: The Movie Parody by Gordon Carleton. Let us know if you are interested in voice parts! See Paula Smith for The Capture or Gordon for Supraman. [7]

Art Show

Winners:

  • Best In Show: Twins by Kate Nuernberg
  • Best In Con Theme: God of Hammers? by Kate Nuernberg
  • Best in SF: You Could Be More by Kate Nuernberg
  • Best in Fantansy: Baba Yaga’s House by Lubov
  • Best in Humor/Cartoon: Dynamic Duo by Kate Nuernberg
  • Best Portrait: Token White Guy by Kate Nuernberg
  • Best in 3-D/Glass/Ceramaic: The Spider Spins by Suzy Rosema
  • Best in Fabric/Needlework: Daleks To The Left of Me by Seth Cutts & Jesse McClain
  • Best Critter: Sea Dragon by Theresa Mathers
  • Best in Cop/Investigator/Spy: Nobody’s As Bold As Bodie by Kate Nuernberg
  • 2 Cute 2 Live: Bat Dragon by Ursula Sandmann
  • Personal Favorite: Twins by Kate Nuernberg

Door Decoration Contest

  • secy fireman door decoration, back for the second year

Masquerade Contest

Programming

Television

  • The Alienist (TNT): How well is the team working? A001, Sun, Noon-1:00pm, Regency D
  • Altered Carbon (Netflix): General discussion of this Cyberpunk-influenced series based on the novel by Richard K. Morgan, A002, Mon, Noon-1:00pm, Delta West
  • American Gods (Starz): Discussion of this adaptation of Neil Gaiman's novel, as we await season two in 2019, A003, Sun, Noon-1:00pm, Delta East
  • The Americans (FX): General discussion of this 1980s period espionage drama as the series ends, A005, Sun, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta Central
  • Animated Superheroes: Then and now! A129, Fri, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta West
  • Ash vs. Evil Dead (Starz): General discussion of this horror series, which just finished its 3rd and last season, A007, Fri, 6:00-7:00pm, Regency C
  • Big Bang Theory (CBS): General discussion of this sitcom about geeks and nerds, A008, Fri, 4:00-5:00pm, Capital
  • Black Lightning (CW): General discussion of this new superhero series, A009, Fri, 6:00-7:00pm, Delta Central
  • Black Mirror (Netflix): General discussion of this Hugo-nominated edgy anthology series, A012, Mon, 11:00am-Noon, Delta Central
  • The Blacklist (NBC): General discussion of this thriller series starring James Spader, in its 5th season, A013, Sun, 8:00-9:00pm, Delta West
  • Castle Rock (Hulu): General discussion of this new drama series set in Stephen King's New England community, premieres 2018, A015, Sun, 7:00-8:00pm, Capital
  • Colony (USA): General discussion of the 2018 season. What did we learn this year? A016, Sat, 8:00-9:00pm, Delta Central
  • Commercials: Maybe the bane of TV views, but sometimes they entertain. Come discussion the commercials that made an impact on you, A131, Sat, Noon-1:00pm, Capital
  • Criminal Minds (CBS): General discussion of this long-running crime series, A017, Sat, 11:00am-noon, Capital
  • The CW'S “Arrowverse" (Arrow, Flash, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow) – General discussion of the 2017-2018 seasons, A133, Sat, 6:00-7:00pm, Delta East
  • Damage Control: They've saved the world. Who cleans up the mess? A134, Fri, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta West
  • Deception (CBS): General discussion of this mid-season series about a master illusionist aiding the FBI, A021, Fri, 9:00-10:00pm, Regency D
  • Designated Survivor (ABC): General discussion of the second season of this Kiefer Sutherland political thriller, A023, Sat, 8:00-9:00pm, Delta West
  • Destination Truth (Syfy): General discussion of this paranormal reality series from the Syfy network, A024, Sat, 5:00-6:00pm, Capital
  • Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency (BBC): General discussion of this series version of Douglas Adams' novels, A025, Sun, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta Central
  • Doctor Who (BBCA) – General discussion of the Capaldi era, A026, Fri, 1:00-2:00pm, Regency D
  • Doctor Who (BBCA): Will changing the sex of the iconic Time Lord alter the show's dynamic, moving forward?, A027/A028, Sat, Noon-1:00pm, Regency C
  • Donald Strachey Mysteries (HereTV): General discussion of the movies and books (/), A029, Fri, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta Central
  • Donald Strachey Mysteries (HereTV): Keeping a tiny fandom alive and thriving, A030, Sat, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta West
  • Elementary vs. Instinct (CBS): Is Instinct just a pale copy set in the CIA?, A031, Sat, 10:00-11:00am, Regency C
  • The Exorcist (FOX): We're all going to Hell – Do you slash Marcus and Father Tomes (/), A032, Fri, 7:00-8:00pm, Capital
  • The Expanse (Syfy): General discussion of this Syfy network hard SF sries, beginning its 3rd season in 2018, A033, Sat, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta West
  • Expedition Unknown (Travel): General discussion of this travel series that explores mysteries around the world, A034, Sun, 10:00-11:00am, Delta East
  • Game of Thrones (HBO): We're way past where the books leave off and it's moving fast, A036, Sun, 11:00am-noon, Regency D
  • The Good Doctor vs. The Resident: Are they the "new" Grey's Anatomy? A038, Sat, 1:00-2:00pm, Capital
  • The Good Place (NBC): Watching this show should earn you college credit in ethics, A039, Fri, 1:00-2:00pm, Delta Central
  • The Good Witch (Hallmark): General discussion of this fantasy-tinged family drama, A040, Mon, 11:00am-Noon, Capital
  • Gotham (FOX): Is Bruce being a tool? General discussion of this superhero prequel series, A041, Sun, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta West
  • Grace and Frankie (Netflix): General discussion about this Jane Fonda/Lily Tomlin series, A159, Sun, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta Central
  • Great Cop Shows: Some are about the relationship (S&H), while some aren't (L&O). What's the difference and why? A135, Sat, 7:00-8:00pm, Delta Central
  • The Handmaid's Tale (Hulu): General discussion of the series based on Margaret Atwood's dystopian novel, A043, Sat, 10:00-11:00am, Delta Central
  • Hawaii Five-O (CBS): A General discussion of the current TV series (/), A044, Fri, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta West
  • Hawaii Five-O (CBS): A post-mortem on season 8: The joys and sorrows (/), A047, Sat, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta West
  • Hawaii Five-O (CBS): Where McDanno has been and where are it's going? (/), A045, Sat, 11:00am-noon, Delta Central
  • Hooten & The Lady (CW/Sky): General discussion of this short-run adventure/comedy/romance series, A048, Fri, 9:00-10:00pm, Regency C
  • How Do You Watch TV? With so many different platforms and delivery methods, how do YOU watch TV?, A137, Fri, 7:00-8:00pm, Regency C
  • How to Raise a Superhero: Parents/Guardians of Superheroes and mutants, A139, Fri, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta West
  • Instinct (see Elementary, above)
  • iZombie (CW): General discussion of this horror/mystery mash-up series., A051, Sat, 9:00-10:00pm, Capital
  • Killjoys (Syfy): General discussion of this sci-fi bounty hunter series, A054, Sun, 7:00-8:00pm, Delta West
  • Krypton (Syfy): General discussion of this new series, a prequel to the established Superman mythos, A053, Fri, 9:00-10:00pm, Delta East
  • The Last Ship (TNT): General discussion of this post-apocalypse drama, A055, Sun, 9:00-10:00pm, Delta West
  • Legion (FX): General discussion of this mind-bending series about Charles Xavier's mutant son, A056, Sun, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta East
  • Lethal Weapon (Fox): General discussion of this series reboot of the classic buddy-cop movies A057, Fri, 2:00-3:00pm, Regency D
  • Librarians (TNT): General discussion of this fantasy/adventure series, A058, Fri, 6:00-7:00pm, Capital
  • Live-Action TV Superhero Nostalgia: General discussion of past superhero shows from TV's earlier days, A141, Sat, 11:00am-noon, Regency D
  • Longmire (AMC/Netflix): General discussion of the final season of this acclaimed western/mystery series, A060, Sat, 6:00-7:00pm, Capital
  • Lost in Space (Netflix): General discussion of this re-imaged version of the 1960s classic, which recently premiered on Netflix, A062, Sun, 11:00am-noon, Regency C
  • Lucifer (Fox): Should we have more emphasis on the supernatural rather than the procedural?, A064, Fri, 8:00-9:00pm, Delta Central
  • MacGyver (CBS): General discussion of the second season of this rebooted series, A067, Sat, 6:00-7:00pm, Delta West
  • The Magicians (SyFy): General discussion of this fantasy series – "Harry Potter for Adults", A068, Sat, 9:00-10:00pm, Delta West
  • The Man in the High Castle (Amazon): General discussion of this alternate history series based on a PK Dick novel, A069, Mon, 10:00-11:00am, Delta West
  • Marvel’s Agents of Shield (ABC): Season 5 – Jumping the Shark, or Groundhog's Day? A071, Sun, 6:00-7:00pm, Delta East
  • Marvel’s Agents of Shield (ABC): Now that Fitzsimmons have tied the knot, what's next?, A070, Sat, Noon-1:00pm, Delta West
  • Marvel's Netflix Series Continuity (Netflix): General discussion of Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, and The Defenders, A142, Mon, 10:00-11:00am, Capital
  • Midnight, Texas (NBC) – General discussion of this contemporary, dark fantasy series, A074, Fri, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta East
  • Mom (CBS: Burning questions from the latest season, A075, Sat, Noon-1:00pm, Delta Central
  • Mystery Science Theater 3000 (Netflix): General discussion of the revival of this cult TV classic, A077, Sun, Noon-1:00pm, Capital
  • Mythbusters (Science): Which do you like better, the new or the old? A078, Fri, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta Central
  • The NCIS Franchise (CBS): General discussion of any or all of the NCIS, all of which return next season, A079-A081, Fri, 9:00-10:00pm, Delta West
  • Once Upon a Time (ABC): General discussion of this fantasy series, in its final season, A082, Sun, Noon-1:00pm, Delta Central
  • The 100 (CW): Discuss the last season of this gritty scifi series, A083, Sun, 9:00-10:00pm, Delta Central
  • Orphan Black (BBCA): General discussion of this scifi series, which just ended, A084, Sun, 6:00-7:00pm, Delta West
  • The Orville: Is it a satire or a tribute? An home to early Trek with its social commentary and thoughtful ideas? A085, Sat, 4:00-5:00pm, Capital
  • Outlander (Starz): General discussion of this stylish adaptation of the time-travel romance novels of Diana Gabaldon, A086, Sun, 3:00-4:00pm, Capital
  • Poldark (PBS): General discussion and comparison of the new version to the 1970s version, A087, Sun, 9:00-10:00pm, Capital
  • The Professionals: Best character in a supporting role (/), A088, Fri, 3:00-4:00pm, Capital
  • The Professionals: The episode tags we wanted – which episodes screamed for a tag and what would it be? (/) A089, Sun, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta Central
  • The Professionals: Pros and Their Cons: Which episode endings satisfy the most? (/) A091, Sat, 10:00-11:00am, Regency D
  • The Professionals and Starsky & Hutch: Why we love both shoes (or why we don't) (/), A090, Sat, 1:00-2:00pm, Delta East
  • Psych: The 2017 Christmas Movie Reunion: General discussion of this reunion movie, first of several planned, A092, Fri, 7:00-8:00pm, Delta East
  • Reboot Cartoons: Is it just as good the 2nd (or 3rd) time around?, A145, Fri, 7:00-8:00pm, Delta Central
  • Red Dwarf (BBC): General discussion of the 12th season of this British sci-fi comedy series, A093, Sat, 8:00-9:00pm, Capital
  • The Resident (see The Good Doctor, above)
  • Rick & Morty (Adult Swim): General discussion about this Adult Swim animated series, which has built a large cult following, A094, Sat, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta Central
  • Scorpion (CBS): General discussion of the 4th season of this series about heroic nerds, A097, Mon, 11:00am-Noon, Delta West
  • SEAL Team (CBS): General discussion of this military/adventure series starring David Boreanaz, A098, Fri, 6:00-7:00pm, Regency D
  • Secret Identities: Do they really work in modern times? A148, Sun, Noon-1:00pm, Delta West
  • The Sentinel (UPN/Syfy/DVD): General discussion of the series, and why we still love it (/), A101, Fri, 5:00-6:00pm, Regency C
  • The Sentinel (UPN/Syfy/DVD): Why are Jim and Blair so slashable? (/), A100, Sun, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta East
  • The Shannara Chronicles (MTV/Spike): General discussion of the two seasons of this series adapting Terry Brooks' books, A102, Sat, 6:00-7:00, Delta Central
  • Sherlock (BBCA) – General discussion, A103, Fri, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta East
  • Signed, Sealed, Delivered (HMM): General discussion of this heartfelt series about postal specialists and long-lost mail, A105, Sat, 1:00-2:00pm, Regency D
  • Star Trek Discovery (CBSAA & others): How well does this fit into the overall Star Trek continuity?, A106, Sat, 1:00-2:00pm, Delta West
  • Star Trek the Original Series & Alternate Original Series/Kelvin Timeline: The Spock-McCoy relationship, A156, Fri, 1:00-2:00pm, Delta East
  • Stargate: Origins (Web): General discussion of this web-based prequel series to what we've seen before, A110, Fri, 8:00-9:00pm, Regency C
  • Starsky & Hutch (ABC): What makes them the Gold Standard for slash. (/), A111, Fri, 6:00-7:00pm, Delta East
  • Starsky & Hutch (ABC): Would we want a new version of the series? (/), A112, Fri, 8:00-9:00pm, Capital
  • Starsky & Hutch (see also: The Professionals, above)
  • Stranger Things (Netflix): General discussion of this fan-favorite retro horror/scifi series set in the 1980s, A114, Sun, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta West
  • Superhero Sidekicks: Love Them or Hate Them? A150, Mon, Noon-1:00pm, Delta Central
  • Supernatural (CW): General discussion of the latest season of the Winchester brothers' adventures, A117, Sun, 5:00-6:00pm, Capital
  • Taken (NBC): General discussion of this thriller series, adapted from the trio of Liam Neeson movies, A118, Sun, 6:00-7:00pm, Delta Central
  • Timeless (NBC): General discussion about the second season of this series about time-traveling troubleshooters, A120, Sun, 8:00-9:00pm, Capital
  • TV to Movies/Movies to TV: Who got it right, and which do you prefer? A160, Fri, 4:00-5:00pm, Regency D
  • TV Tropes: General discussion – what are your favorite TV tropes that you keep returning to? A152, Sun, 1:00-2:00pm, Delta West
  • TV Tunes (Contributions Welcome) (2 hours), A151, Sat, 2:00-4:00pm, Regency D
  • 12 Monkeys (SyFy): General discussion of this scifi series, about to start its final season, A122, Sun, 8:00-9:00pm, Delta Central
  • Vikings (History): General discussion of this history channel series, A124, Sat, 1:00-2:00pm, Delta Central
  • The Walking Dead/Fear the Walking Dead (AMC): Could this show and other post-apocalyptic zombie disasters thrive on TV if 9/11 hadn't happened? A125, Sat, *7:00-8:00pm, Delta West
  • The X-Files: Following two short revival seasons, what is the future of this series? A127, Fri, 4:00-5:00, Regency C
  • Yuri on Ice: General discussion of this Japanese Anime import, which became popular in the U.S. in 2017, A128, Sun, 10:00-11:00am, Regency D

Movies and Films

  • The Avengers: Infinity War: All that we expected, or a huge let-down?, B001, Fri, 5:00-6:00pm, Regency D
  • Black Panther: Just how wonderful was this movie? B004, Sat, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta Central
  • Guardians of the Galaxy films: The epitome of dysfunctional families – how does it work? B006, Sun, 2:00-3:00pm, Regency D
  • Justice League: General discussion of DC's 2017 big team-up movie – Did it live up (or down) to your expectations? B008, Sun, 7:00-8:00pm, Delta Central
  • How is the Marvel Cinematic Universe Represented So Much Better in Movies than the DCEU? B007, Sun, 1:00-2:00pm, Delta Central
  • Looking for Leia (Documentary): General Discussion of this documentary-in-progress, if it was shown earlier today! B010, Sat, 9:00-10:00pm, Delta Central
  • Movie Soundtracks (Contributions Welcome) (90 minutes), A151, Sat, 4:00-5:30pm, Regency D
  • Solo: A Star Wars Story: Are you looking forward to this latest Star Wars stand-alone film, or planning to avoid it? B022, Sun, 1:00-2:00pm, Regency D
  • Star Wars: The Last Jedi: Serious discussion of the Luke Skywalker dynamic and the fan controvery surrounding this film, B012, Sun, 4:00-5:00pm, Capital
  • Star Wars: The Last Jedi: Willing suspension of disbelief? B014, Sat, 10:00-11:00am, Delta West
  • Thor: Ragnarok: Too cartoonish? Or just right? B016, Sat, 2:00-3:00pm, Capital
  • TV to Movies/Movies to TV: Who got it right, and which do you prefer? A160, Fri, 4:00-5:00pm, Regency D
  • Wonder Woman: How is she changing the DCEU? B017, Sun, 10:00-11:00am, Regency C
  • A Wrinkle in Time: Faithful adaptation of the classic children's SF novel, or did it take too many liberties? B019, Fri, 3:00-4:00pm, Regency C

Actors

  • In Memoriam: A look back at the actors, directors, writers, and other genre/industry note worthies we’ve lost since last year’s MW*C. It’s been a really tough year, filled with major losses...let’s talk about them!, C001, Fri, 1:00-2:00pm, Regency C
  • Who Are Today's "Classic Actors"? Who are the modern replacements for the acting legends of yesteryear? C004, Sun, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta West

Literature

  • Anne Bishop: The Courtyards of the Others. Where will it go from here?, D020, Fri, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta East
  • Christopher Moore: Crazy Man or Genius?, D019, Sat, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta Central
  • The "Elevator" Book Review: Given 2-3 minutes only, what book(s) would you recommend, and why? D005, Sat, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta East
  • Genre Themes on Broadway: General discussion and look at the history of SF and Fantasy themes in Broadway plays and musicals, D008, Sun, 10:00-11:00am, Delta Central
  • George R.R. Martin's "Wildcards": General discussion of this "shared universe", including the planned TV series, D009, Fri, 8:00-9:00pm, Regency D
  • J.D. Robb: 48 books, 58 stories. Why is this series still fresh? D016, Sun, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta East
  • Karen Marie Moning: General discussion of the Fever series, D021, Sat, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta Central
  • The Liaden Universe: Discussion of the science fiction of Sharon Lee and Steve Miller, D012, Saturday, 10:00-11:00am, Delta East
  • Nalini Singh: The Psy-Changling Series and the appeal of multiple shape-shifters in the same world, D018, Sat, Noon-1:00pm, Delta East
  • Patricia Briggs: The Worlds of Mercy Thompson, D017, Fri, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta East
  • Stop, You're Killing Me: General discussion of historical, cozy (and anything else) mysteries, D013, Sun, 2:00-3:00pm, Capital
  • Ursula K. LeGuin: Looking back at the legendary author, following her passing, D015, Sat, 11:00am-noon, Regency C
  • A Wrinkle in Time: Faithful adaptation of the classic children's SF novel, or did it take too many liberties? B019, Fri, 3:00-4:00pm, Regency C

Fandom/Fannish Interests & Hobbies

  • Bikini Armor or What the H@LL is She Wearing? (Adult Themes), E001, Sat, 2:00-3:00pm, Delta East
  • Can Fanfic Ever Be Canon? E002, Fri, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta Central
  • The Changing Ways We Get Fannish Content: What are your favorite ways to connect with fandom today? What's next? E003, Sun, 11:00am-noon, Delta West
  • Costuming: General discussion – Come share your tips and techniques for creating costumes, H002, Sun, 4:00-5:00pm, Delta West
  • The Fast and the Furry-ous: Curious about the fannish world of the Furry? Come explore what furries are all about, with an overview of this fannish community, and a look at how anthropomorphics continue to represent in mainstream entertainment. E004, Fri, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta Central
  • Hidden Gems: What favorite books, TV and movies did you discover in the past year? E020, Sun, 11:00am-noon, Delta East
  • Improv Performing: What are the pleasures and pitfalls of performing Improv? Lead-in to MW*C's Whose Line! H008, Sun, 3:00-4:00pm, Regency C
  • Inequality for Non-Canon Ships: Why do non-canon slash ships still draw more fire from fans than non-canon het ships? (/) E007, Mon, 10:00-11:00am, Delta Central
  • Professionals: Domestic Bliss; A discussion of the canon and fanon views of the Pros in their personal environments (/), E013, Sun, Noon-1:00pm, Regency C
  • Professionals: Emergency Room or Mortuary Slab? Violence in The Professionals. Are the kicks, fists, and guns used in Professionals episodes really as lethal as the writers suggest? Does violence serve as a successful turn-on in episodes or fiction? (/) E012, Fri, 1:00-2:00, Capital
  • Professionals: Gearshifts, Girlfriends and Goons: Inventive solutions offer by fic writers (/), E011, Sat, Noon-1:00pm, Regency D
  • Professionals: The Slash Fanfic of HG – A discussion of one of the most prolif and acclaimed authors in Pros fandom (/), E010, Sun, 10:00-11:00am, Capital
  • Professionals and Starsky & Hutch: Dobey and Cowley, similarities, differences, and what they'd do when they find out their top teams are lovers? (/), E014, Sun, 1:00-2:00pm, Regency C
  • Starsky & Hutch: If you overlook the humor, in reality this is a gritty show about two tough cops. (/) E016, Sat, 7:00-8:00pm, Capital
  • Starsky & Hutch: Show and Tell – General discussion of the new stories, new art and new vids this past year, E017, Sun, 5:00-6:00pm, Delta East
  • Starsky & Hutch: Starsky without Hutch is like chocolate without peanut butter. Why these guys below together, E015, Sat, 3:00-4:00pm, Capital
  • The State of the MW*C: MW*C co-chairs Gordon and/or Lori talk about the challenges MW*C faced this year, and what the future holds, E022, Sun, 11:00am-noon, Delta Central
  • What Comes Next After Conventions? Are fan-run cons endangered? Are pro cons going to survive? Or do modern fen not need face-to-face contact? E021, Sun, 1:00-2:00pm, Capital
  • You Just Keep Me Hanging On: A final Monday morning slash fan discussion. (/) E019, Mon, Noon-1:00pm, Capital

Internet

  • App, Software and Helpful Websites for Research and Writing: F001/H001, Fri, 2:00-3:00pm, Capital
  • Taking the Con Online: How can large fan-run conventions evolve to include interactive annual events? F005, Sat, 3:00-4:00pm, Delta West

Games

  • Whose Line is it Anyway? Live Improv!, Our annual audience participation game; join the fun!, J003, Sun, 4:00-6:00pm, Regency C

Workshops

  • Fandom Merit Badges: Show your pride for your fandom in this hour of trivia and fun!, J005, Sat, 11:00am-noon, Delta East
  • The Poet's Bucket List: 20 things you should do in this lifetime (if you're a poet and you know it), J004, Sat, 3:00-5:00pm, Delta East
  • Whose Line is it Anyway? Live Improv!, Our annual audience participation game; join the fun!, J003, Sun, 4:00-6:00pm, Regency C

Programming Schedules Showing Moderators

  • Friday

  • Friday

  • Friday

  • Friday

  • Saturday

  • Saturday

  • Saturday

  • Saturday

  • Saturday

  • Sunday

  • Sunday

  • Sunday

  • Sunday

  • Sunday

  • Monday

Convention Reports

Additional convention reports are needed, especially one by members attending the event in 2018.


This past Memorial Day weekend was the traditional time to attend Media West*Con in Lansing, Michigan. I was once a faithful attendee and still miss it, but a lot of factors combined to make 2011 my last con.... ..So why did I stop going after my last trip in 2011? A lot of reasons, which probably applied to other people, too. Fandom's getting older and poorer. The economy might be great for the 1%, but the rest of us have to struggle. And dealing with the airlines? Every year it got more aggravating, not to mention less flights available at good times getting in and out of Lansing. .......Finances and dealing with the airlines did me in, exhaustion with the room lottery, and sadness over the con's lack of energy. [8]

References

  1. ^ Blog
  2. ^ Program Book
  3. ^ Program Book
  4. ^ Program Book
  5. ^ canellfan's May 25, 2018 post.
  6. ^ Program Book
  7. ^ Program Book
  8. ^ Media West*Con Memories: bradygirl_12, Archived version (June 2018).
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