ConGregate 11

Mechanical, Electrical, Nuclear - all subsets of Engineering.  Outside of the obvious, how do these different fields interact with each other and what skills should you take away if you want to a) have a career in engineering b) write an engineer or c) just know when it's completely wrong in film or TV.

Brandon?, Jim?

Modern fantasy novels like "Legendborn," "Cruel Prince," "Powerless," "Six of Crows," and "A Court of Thorn & Roses" challenge traditional genre conventions with morally ambiguous characters, intricate political intrigues, and diverse representations of race, gender, and sexuality. Authors like Holly Black, Leigh Bardugo, and Sarah J. Maas explore themes of power, identity, trauma, and desire while blending elements of romance, mystery, and horror in their storytelling. These contemporary works contrast with classic fantasy tales by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, such as "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Chronicles of Narnia," which focus on archetypal heroes and clear moral binaries. Let's discuss how the evolution of modern fantasy literature reflects shifting societal values and showcases diverse voices reshaping the genre.

requests:

Let's sit around the "backyard" and tell some "old-timers" stories.  What are some con stories from 25+ years ago? From cons that are no longer around (Stellarcon, ShevaCon, KnightstarCon) to those that happened when DragonCon was only 6000 people, let's tell some stories of the "old days".

Description: There are some movies that all of geekdom have decided are "bad." But, are they really? Come listen as our panel of defense experts will explain why these derided movies are actually worth your time! Then you, the audience Jury will determine if the films deserve exoneration, or execution!
(Note for Tera - I will need at least TWO other panelists, preferably three or four, who will let me know what movies they wish to defend. I am checking now if Michael Williams is up for this - I may also need a projector so a laptop can project a Power Point presentation).

Michael G Williams? Bill Mulligan? Jennifer McCollom? Jason Gilbert?

Requests: Syrinx, Carol Cowles

For those that GET pro-wrestling, no explanation is needed. For those that DON’T, no explanation will do. This is a
panel for those that DO. So, come on out and discuss all of your favorite pro-wrestling stuff here with other people
who also get it!

(Note: Make sure time is one that Cindy can attend)

requests: