It Bodes

Memories of Sir Terry Pratchett OR So Long I Must Be Going

2016-02-15T14:32:00.002-08:00

I finished closing down the following Facebook pages for these Discworld guilds and groups today.

Discworld Dark Clerks
Discworld Guild of Singers and Musicians
Discworld Seamstress Guild of North America
Guild of Alchemists
North American Discworld Connection - NADWCon

While there was crossover in readership, posts went out to roughly 2,500 Discworld fans. Here is the letter I posted on those sites several weeks ago.

I know some of you would like me to write more about Terry-the-man but to be honest, the loss of such a good, brave and kind person is still, for me, too recent. There are - no doubt - people who were closer to him, and who will write about him much better than I could but some day I will post a few of my favorite Terry moments. For now, here is a slice of the work we did on behalf of the fans. Terry always put the fans first, and so did we.

Dear Discworld friends:

I first met Terry Pratchett in the early 90's, well before he was famous in the U.S. I will always be grateful that I met him when he was just this nice British guy who came to my friend's bookstore, because I might have been too wary or too shy back then to talk to The Writing Rock Star he later became.

Over the years it has been both my pleasure and my privilege to organize and host DW events in my friend's honor. It began in 2002 when he asked me to throw him a party at ConJose. We had tremendous support from that con's Co-Chair and Terry's friend, Tom Whitmore, and a grand time was had by all. It meant a lot to our team when Terry said it was one of the best parties he'd ever attended.

In 1998, he asked me to to help organize the first NADWCon which took place in Tempe, AZ in 2009, I was happy to help out with programming, and to organize the Seamstress Guild's Opening Night Gala in his honor. Those of us who were lucky enough to share those times with him will cherish our memories for many years to come.

Our Seamstress and other guilds have since been involved with many DW events and meets, including the Great Discworld Fan Meet last year at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015. I was happy to serve as the DW Area Head on that ConCom, and I met many wonderful fans from all around the world as a result. I am deeply indebted to Laurie Mann, the Programing Chair for Sasquan, for her help, advice and support. We could not have done any of this work without her. We had a lot of support of others on that talent-rich, creative ConCom and the experience was a great one for our team.

My thanks also go out to all those who came to the memorial for Terry at Sasquan and who shared their stories for our documentary film, The Turtle Moves, during the course of the con.

I knew Terry for almost 20 years, and his friendship graced my life. I will always miss him. I felt it was important to honor his memory in 2015, and to help the fans do so, as well. Now that he is gone, and we've grieved this loss together, I feel that my work here is done. So while I look forward to seeing many more generations embrace the books as the years go on, I will be closing this and other FB pages, and moving on to other projects. I will keep what Terry taught has me through both his work and his life as a constant example, and I will cherish the friends that I have made through Discworld fandom over the years.

I may add on a few notes about the film, et al, before I shut down these pages for good. In the meantime, please enjoy what we've posted in past.

Cheers, and Best Wishes,

Denise Connell

P.S If you're wondering what I'm up to next, well here's a hint. It makes sense when you think about it, for who of all people could follow Terry? <grin>

Art: Tiffany and the Feegles by Paul Kidby

P.S. The @nadwcon twitter feed will close down shortly. It will soon reopen under new management.

Please note: My team and I are not associated with the current effort to organize a North American Discworld convention in 2017 in any way, shape or form. If you have questions about that event, please contact the organizers directly.

NADWCon wishes to thank three very special people - guest post

2016-02-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

Guest Post:

NADWCON wishes to thank three very special people in our organization: Denise Connell, Patty Panek and John Kentner . This team provided extraordinary support for Discworld fans over the years, and we want to recognize them for their contributions to Discworld Fandom in North America.

If you were a volunteer for NADWCON at Sasquan, you already know Patty. She was the dynamo, making everything work for the Arts exhibits, organizing the volunteers, helping with the panels and being generally indispensable. Patty began working on this project long before anyone made their reservations for Sasquan. She contacted all the guilds to make sure they were ready for the event. (In addition, Patty manages several of the guilds!) She gathered materials and encouraged people during the long preparation period for the Con. We would not have had an art show without Patty’s efforts. During Sasquan, she was busy everywhere to keep the volunteers and fans happy and involved. Patty, we can’t say enough to thank you.

John Kentner filmed a wonderful tribute to Sir Terry Pratchett and the Dicsworld fans at Sasquan. Many fans were interviewed for his project there and they all told wonderful stories. We all know how much Sir Terry has touched our lives and John worked to put that experience onto film for others to see and share. The film project has been in the planning stages for some time now. John was able to secure funding through a Kickstarter campaign which allowed him to make this marvelous documentary. Thank you, John for your creativity and drive.

You may have missed Denise Connell who works quietly and tirelessly behind the scenes to support NADWCON. She made the connections to have NADWCON collaborate with Sasquan. As the Discworld Area Head for this Worldcon Denise set up the Discworld panels and games, gathered films, supported DW events, and organized Terry's memorial at Sasquan. She also backed John Kentner’s film efforts with advice and support while wrangling people for John to interview. She was there for Patty, as well, to help with background, past experiences and aid. Without Denise, there would not have been a North American Discworld fan gathering at Sasquan.

Denise is also the founder of the North American Seamstress Guild as well as the Dark Clerks, and she has a served as a staff member at DW cons in 2009 (AZ) and 2011 (WI). She has been the NADWCon Board Chair since 2012.

Thank you to these three wonderful NADWCON volunteers. We literally could not have done it without you.

Thank you, as well, to all the volunteers who served on panels, worked as costumed docents, helped out with events, and promoted Discworld fandom at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015.

Thank you, to the various DW guilds on FB who help get the word out and contribute so much to our fun at events.

We would also like to salute the writers like Fran Wald and editors such as Anne Hoppe who served as panelists and helped make the discussions of Sir Terry’s world both illuminating and erudite.

We salute you, all, and we think Sir Terry would be proud.

Marilyn Bunzo,
Web Mistress and NADWCon senior staff member and volunteer since 2010.

Discworld Events at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 - A Timeline

2015-08-13T16:18:00.002-07:00

Below is a list of Discworld events currently planned for Sasquan / Worldcon 2015

Here is the official, online schedule for Sasquan (which is frequently updated).

The mobile app for this Convention Guide is now in the app stores; the access code is SASQUAN (it is not case sensitive)

Android:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.grenadine.confee

Apple:

https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/grenadine-event-guide/id886788146?mt=8

Please check the official convention schedule for additions and changes.

WE'RE GONNA MAKE A MOVIE!

We are happy to announce that The Turtle Moves: Remembering Terry Pratchett achieved their funding goal, and we will be making this documentary "love letter to Terry Pratchett" at Sasquan, as planned. If you are a Discworld fan and you would like to be interviewed for this film, please contact the director, John Kentner, via the Kickstarter page at the link above.

DISCWORLD THEMED EVENTS AT SASQUAN

Wednesday - 14:00
Headology and Boffo: Character and Cunning on the Discworld

Wednesday - 17:00
Ook - A Welcome To Discworld Fans

Wednesday - 20:00
Discworld Pub Quiz

Thursday - 11:00
Unseen University - A World Within A World

Thursday - 12:00
Terry Pratchett Memorial Panel

Thursday - 14:00
Nanny Ogg Knees Up - A Discworld Dance

Thursday - 14:00
Terry Pratchett for Kids

Thursday - 20:00
A Public Reading of Where's My Cow Wherein We Make All The Noises

Friday - 10:00
The YA Discworld Novels and Other Books by Terry Pratchett for Young People

Friday - 13:00
A Night in Ankh-Morpork: City of 1,000 Surprises

Friday - 16:00
How Discworld Changed My Life

Friday - 1800
Fans of Terry Pratchett Discworld Rendezvous

Saturday - 12:00
Guided Tour of Discworld Exhibit - Please note: Other tours have now been added. Please see online schedule.

Saturday - 12:00
The Turtle Moves - Discworld in the Roundworld

Saturday - 13:00
Witches, Werewolves, Seamstresses and Soldiers - The Women of Discworld

Saturday - 16:00
Science and Technology of Discworld

Sunday - 10:00
Heraldry of Discworld for Kids

Discworld Exhibit - There has been so much excitement about the Discworld Exhibit that we have added more times on for our docent tours. Please check the online schedule for days and times. Stop by any time the exhibit room to view the exhibit, and sign our guest book.

Discworld Games: Stop by the Gaming Room to try the demo version of the new Discworld game CLACKS from Backspindle Games. The BackSpindle game THE WITCHES will be on display in the Discworld Exhibit.

Discworld Movies: Please check the convention's Movie Schedule for a list of DW films to be shown at Sasquan.

Discworld Party - The Seamstress Guild has announced that, due to a series of unfortunate events beyond their control, there will be no official Seamstress Guild party at Sasquan. However, many of their members will be there with bustles on, and they have volunteered to help with the Discworld meets, games, exhibits, panels, dances and events at this convention. There are quite literally hundreds of parties at a Worldcon, both big and small, so folks won't be lacking for entertainment.

Art: Young Nanny Ogg

The Turtle Moves: Remembering Terry Pratchett - This Documentary Needs YOU

2015-07-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

Discworld fans have a chance to appear in and/or help fund "a love letter to Terry Pratchett".

We've chosen to make a film featuring fan's memories of Sir Terry at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 because he was a popular attendee at Worldcons for many years and is well known there. This particular worldcon is the site of The Great Discworld Fan Gathering and Sasquan is honoring Terry with a number of panels and events. (1) We have their permission to interview Terry's fans who are traveling from all over the world to attend, and a special memorial panel for Terry will be presented on Thursday, August 20th.

The Turtle Moves: Remembering Terry Pratchett - Kickstarter Page

This film is going to be a positive and heartfelt commemoration, and it is being made by fans, for fans.

Questions about the film itself should be directed to John Kentner, the director, via the Kickstarter page.

Please help us get this film made: Share the link to the Kickstarter page with your friends and on your FB and Twitter pages and donate a few dollars if you can. A list of rewards and perks for donors, including a DVD of the film, is available at the Kickstarter page.

Thank you,

Dj

(1) Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 is honoring Sir Terry in a wide variety of ways, including Discworld themed panels, events, dances, games, fan meets, exhibits, and more. With 6,000+ attendees it's the easiest (and cheapest) way to find a lot of Discworld fans from all over the world in one place.

Sasquan / Worldcon 2015

July Update on the Discworld Themed Programing & Events at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015

2015-07-18T15:50:00.003-07:00

Discworld Themed Programing at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 - Spokene, WA, Aug 19 - 23rd, 2015

The Discworld themed programing will include (but is not limited to):

Discworld Games

* The new CLACKS game from BackSpindle Games will be shown in the game room and available for play.

* THE WITCHES game will be on exhibit

Discworld Events:

* Discworld Discussion Group: How Discworld Changed My Life

* Discworld Pub Quiz & Pictionary Game

* Discworld Rendezvous- A Meet and Greet for Discworld fans

* Nanny Ogg Knees Up - Spirited Country Dancing sans Hedgehogs

* Public Reading of Where's My Cow Wherein We Make All the Noises

Discworld Exhibit

An introduction to the Discworld novels for the uninitiated, with extra special fun planned for the fans.

The exhibit will include docent tours by Discworld characters and the change to take your photo with some very special items.

Discworld Movies

We also hope to show some Discworld movies in the convention's movie room (permission pending)

Discworld Themed Panels: (These include but are not limited to)

* Discworld on the Roundworld - A Q&A with Anne Hoppe (Terry's American YA Editor since 2001) and others.

* Headology & Boffo: Character and Cunning on the Discworld

* A Night in Ankh Morpork, City of 1,000 Surprises

* Terry Pratchett's Books for Young People

* Terry Pratchett Memorial Panel- Join us to hear and share stories about STP

* Unseen University: A World Within the Discworld,

* Women of Discworld

Add to this all the fun of a Worldcon—meet fellow Discworld and science fiction/fantasy fans from all over the globe, attend program sessions and workshops with authors, see the Hugo Awards ceremony, participate in the Masquerade, and more, all in the setting of the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

See sasquan.org for Sasquan convention membership and registration details.

Follow our Discworld at Sasquan updates in

* The North American Discworld Connection Facebook page.

* Our NADWCon Twitter page

* The North American Discworld Connection Website

* the Discworld Monthly

and on this blog.

Discworld Fan Volunteers Welcome !—We need your help to make this the best event for Discworld fans that we can. Email us at volunteer@sasquan.org and let us know you’d like to help with Discworld at Sasquan!

5,000 people are coming to one heck of a party; we hope to see you there.

Dj

Art: Granny Weatherwax and the Unicorn by YonYonYon on Deviant Art.

A million to one chance

2015-04-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

There is a million to one chance that we might, just possibly, if the stars align, be able to announce that some very special Discworld guests will be joining us at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015.

To say any more at this time would bring me to the attention of the Assassin's Guild.

Stay tuned.

Black Hat Day

2015-04-28T12:48:00.002-07:00

Today is Sir Terry's birthday and fans around the world are remembering him by wearing black hats and doing nice things for other people.

This lady gets my vote for Nicest Thing Done In Terry's Honor Today.

Here is one of my favorite photos from the Black Hat Day page (which has over 1,000 members).

Some Updates on The Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015

2015-04-23T15:44:00.001-07:00

Updates on The Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan:

There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes regarding Discworld programing and events for Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 but much of it is a surprise, at least for now. But here is what I can tell you:

Sasquan is making ribbons for DW fans to wear on their badges so they can find one another. These will be purple and will say, "Ook".

(Traditionally, the Seamstress Guild makes up their own ribbons which have their motto: Nil Volupti sine lucre. The guild will give these out at the parties they're hosting at Sasquan.)

In addition to all the great experiences offered by a Worldcon, Sasquan will be hosting Discworld programming, events, a Discworld exhibit, guild meetups, and our fabulous Seamstress Guild parties.

Here are the Sasquan Membership Maps (along with facts and figures) for those attending Sasquan / WorldCon 2015.

Sasquan - 2015 Worldcon, the World Science Fiction Convention in Spokane, Washington | Member Numbers



				Sasquan - 2015 Worldcon, the World Science Fiction Conve... 7016 All Members Countries 42 Global Regions 6185 Americas 629 Europe 201 Asia/Pacific Space 1 Earth Orbit Countries 5813 United States of America 1 Argentina ...

				View on sasquan.org	Preview by Yahoo

Sasquan has recently welcomed new members from Chile, Estonia, Hungary, India, and Romania, North Dakota, Newfoundland, Saxony-Anhalt, and Yukon. Join us at Sasquan and make friends all over the world.

One of the Guests of Honor for Sasquan is David Gerrold, who is also a Terry Pratchett fan. Mr Gerrold has recently started an informal group called Just Us. These are Discworld fans who perform random acts of kindness at conventions and other events. We'll have more on this movement and what it might mean at Sasquan next month.

We hope to see you there.

Art: Marc Simonetti. This is a piece he painted after Terry passed. His work for the Discworld is here.

North American Discworld Fans Remember Sir Terry Pratchett

2015-03-12T11:35:00.000-07:00

Sad Oook. Sad, sad, Oook.

I got the call early this morning. I'm still in shock.

We knew this day was coming, and that our friends / his fans would need someplace they could go to grieve with those who understand the depth of their loss. So some of us have spent the morning posting to the various Discworld pages on Facebook. (1) Each time we post the same sad announcement but we put up a different photo of Himself for each guild. It's important to us that "Terry's people" know they have a welcoming place to go to in order to share their memories. He wasn't just Sir Terry -ing Pratchett to us. He was pterry. Many of us have known him years, some for decades, and we loved the man as much as we loved the work.

North American Fans are remembering Terry Pratchett today on Twitter and at the North American Discworld Connection Facebook page. You can read their comments here.

North American Discworld Connection

Our thoughts are with Terry's family and friends today. One of his long time friends, Bernard Pearson AKA The Cunning Artificer, has posted a lovely note on his FB page today.

We will host a remembrance for Terry at The Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 which takes place in Spokane, WA, August 19th - 23rd.

Update: There will be a memorial panel to Terry at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 and we will host many a glass in his name at the Seamstress Guild parties planned for that convention.

For those who are interested, I am posting some of the best tributes to Terry that I've found on Twitter on @ItBodes

Today, and May 25th we'll wear the lilac, and I'll be urging Discworld fans to contribute to two of his favorite charities in his honor. These are

Orangutan Foundation

Alzheimer's Research

This loss is huge for all of us, and it will take a long time to process. Right now, I just can't imagine a world without him in it.

In the days and weeks that follow the rest of the world will comment on his books, his profound influence on literature and culture, his courageous activism on a wide variety of fronts, and his many kind and charitable acts. But today we remember the man, and we're all glad that he died in peace, surrounded by friends and family, and with one of his beloved cats by his side.

Goodbye pterry. We love you.

*********

RIP SIR TERRY PRATCHETT

It is with immeasurable sadness that we announce that author Sir Terry Pratchett has died at the age of 66. Fans are welcome and to share their memories of Terry here today.

Terry faced his Alzheimer's disease (an 'embuggerance', as he called it) publicly and bravely. Over the last few years, it was his writing that sustained him. His legacy will endure.

Our sympathies go out to Terry's family and friends and all those whose lives were touched by this fine man and his wonderful work.

Terry passed away in his home, with his cat sleeping on his bed surrounded by his family on 12th March 2015. Diagnosed with PCA1 in 2007, he battled the progressive disease with his trademark determination and creativity, and continued to write. He completed his last book, a new Discworld novel, in the summer of 2014, before succumbing to the final stages of the disease.

We ask that the family are left undisturbed at this distressing time.

His daughter Rhianna posted these notes on his twitter page: https://twitter.com/terryandrob

(1) Some of the Discworld Guilds and pages on Facebook

North American Discworld Connection

Discworld Guild of Bakers

Discworld Dark Clerks

Discworld Guild of Engravers and Printers

Discworld Guild of Singers and Musicians

Discworld Seamstress Guild

Guild of Cunning Artificers

and our Discworld friends in the UK and all over the world are at a discussion (?) group known as The Discworld Monthly

Update: On a personal note: I would just like to say a heartfelt "Thank you" to Jason Anthony and the moderators at the Discworld Monthly and other FB pages. Thank you, all, for making these pages a safe place to share our feelings and memories. And thank you, Discworld fans, for sharing. <<hugs from afar> D.

Art - found at The Discworld Monthly

Update - The Great Discworld Gathering at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015

2015-01-23T12:25:00.005-08:00

This announcement about The Great Discworld Gaterhing at Sasquan / Worldcon 2015 just went out to the 19,500 Discworld fans who read the Discworld Monthly Newsletter.

Our sincere thanks to Jason and the great gang at DWM for

helping us get the word out about this event.

Come One, Come All to the Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan!

The World Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention takes place in Spokane, Washington on August 19-23, 2015. Known as Sasquan, it will attract over 5,000 Science Fiction and Fantasy fans from all over the world. Among their ranks will be hundreds, if not thousands, of Discworld enthusiasts. The organizers of this convention would like to invite all of you to be a part of the Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan.

Sasquan takes place in Spokane, Washington, a gorgeous area in the Pacific Northwest. It is on the west coast of the United States, about 4 hours' drive from Seattle, WA. For more information about this convention, please visit sasquan.org/

Spokane is a great city with an international airport. There is lots to see and do for individuals and families. For more information about Spokane, WA, please visit www.visitspokane.com/

Various North American Discworld Guilds have been invited to organize and host DW fan meets at Sasquan and these include:

* The Seamstress Guild (famous for its parties, it has many decorators, costumers and performers among its members),
* the Alchemists (our science minds),
* the Cunning Artificers (arts & crafts),
* Discworld Musicians and Singers (for filking and other fun),
* Engravers & Printers (our writers and editors),
* the Dark Clerks (folks who like to organize both paper and people behind the scenes),
* our fabulous Bakers (lovers of food and drink who may be leading some of our pub crawls),
* the Witches & Wizards (cunning women and men who love history, myth, and folklore),
* various DW Family Groups,
* Ze Black Ribboners (DW folks in recovery), and more.

The North American Seamstress Guild will be hosting its famous parties at this convention, and a Discworld exhibit will be mounted in the convention's Exhibition Room.

Discworld fans are invited to submit their art to the Sasquan Art Show, and costumers should consider entering the famous Worldcon Costume Masquerade.

The Programming and Events departments are working with notable fans and attendees from around the world to create a fascinating Discworld-themed track for fans.

Many events will take place at the Spokane Convention Center. Many of the parties and meets will take place at the historic Davenport Hotel (see The Davenport Hotel and Tower, Spokane, Wash. - In Photos: America's Top Historic Hotels at discworldmonthly.co.uk/url/SPO213A ).

And reservations have just opened for the new Grand Hotel, one of several hotels (with varying and reasonable rates) all serving this Worldcon. Sasquan writes that, "The Grand is still under construction, but will be open in June. It is part of the Davenport Collection, which is now branded as Marriott. It will be attached to the Spokane Convention Center (SCC) across the street via a skybridge on the southwest side. The INB Theater is the closest space in the SCC, where the Masquerade and Hugos will be held."

If you make reservations, please use the housing bureau software system: www.visitspokane.com/sasquan

To follow Sasquan on Facebook, please like their FB page: www.facebook.com/sasquan

To purchase your membership to this event, please visit Sasquan's registration page: sasquan.swoc.us/sasquan/reg.php

Please note: This is a family-friendly event and there will be a track for young people. Why not bring the kids?

It's going to be a well-organized convention and one heck of a party. We hope to see you there.

D. J. Connell
writing for the Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan
Oook!

P.S. We're hearing that there might also be a Steampunk / Discworld themed dance on the first night of the convention.

*************

Art: Tiffany Aching by Paul Kidby www.paulkidby.net. Art poster by Kim White.

Here is a direct link to the Discworld Monthly Newsletter for January of 2015

Updates: Programing for The Great Discworld Fan Meet At Sasquan

2014-08-22T13:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings all,

We've been in touch with Sasquan (WorldCon 2015) about the Discworld panels we'd like to see offered there for The Great Discworld Fan Gathering at that convention. We have suggested, among others, the ever popular NADWCon panels titled "The Science of Discworld" and "The Tech of Discworld", "The Women of Discworld" and "Folklore, World Myths, Ancient Legends and The Discworld".

Are there classes, panels, events, or meets you'd like to see there, either for kids or adults? Let us know using the link noted below.

We can and will suggest the names of interesting people (many of them folks you might know from previous NADWCons) for these panels and events AND we are always looking for new people who can add to our sum of Discworld knowledge. So don't be shy, step up and offer your skills.

Over the next few months we will be working closely with the Chair of Events and the Chair of Programming for Sasquan. We will gather names and recommend folks for *every* Discworld panel and event until May 1st, 2015 (which is the programming cut off date). If you wish to be included on a panel - or want to suggest some good ideas - please use the Sasquan Program Idea form:

http://sasquan.org/program/idea-form/

This is what you will see:

SASQUAN PROGRAM IDEA FORM:

Have an idea for Events or Program? Drop us an E-mail. We’re eager to hear what you’ve liked at conventions.

Worldcons are always interested in ways to innovate new kinds of Program and Events. Currently, we have panels, videos, dances, parties, workshops, contests, game shows, concerts, Masquerade, Hugo Awards Ceremony, readings, autographings… Over the last few years, a film festival and Strolling with the Stars have been added to the Worldcon schedule. Between now and September 1, 2014, we’d like to get con attendees to think a little about new types of Program or Events we could add.

We’re also looking for new topics and panelists for Program, and can take topic/panelist suggestions until May 1, 2015.

This idea form can help you reflect on what you’ve liked about recent conventions, and what you’d like to see Sasquan try to do in 2015.

TO FILL OUT THIS FORM, PLEASE GO TO THIS LINK:

http://sasquan.org/program/idea-form/

Your Name

Your Email

What Was the Best Event or Program Item You Saw at a Recent Convention?

Why?

Who Were the Best Event or Program Participants You Saw at a Recent Convention?

Why?

If You've Attended a Recent Worldcon, What's the One Change You'd Like to See for Sasquan Events or Program?

What's the Optimal Length for a Panel?

60 minutes
90 minutes

Suggest a New Type of Event or Program

Suggest an Idea for a Panel Topic

Suggest Participants for this Panel

Any Other Comments for Events or Program?

TO FILL OUT THIS FORM, PLEASE GO TO THIS LINK:

http://sasquan.org/program/idea-form/

Thank you,

Dj Connell
Chair, The Great Discworld Gathering at Sasquan
Chair, NADWCon Steering Committee
Founder, Seamstress Guild of North America
Co-Founder, Dark Clerks of North America
Blah, blah, blah, Ginger

Art: Death Playing Guitar by Paul Kidby www.paulkidby.net

We R Igors - 2015 Discworld Calendar

2014-07-30T05:30:00.000-07:00

Good news: The new Discworld Calendars, from Gollancz will be available from The Discworld Emporium in August of this year.

The Discworld Emporium writes:

As any Igor will tell you, ‘What goeth around, cometh around’. This excursion into Pratchett’s world of the Igors has taught us more about anatomy, and indeed ‘re-cycling’, than one could possibly have wished to know. Regardless, we’re delighted to share it with you in this little tome. Hopefully it will have you in thtitcheth!

The Gollancz announcement states that

The Discworld Diary 2015 is the most lavishly illustrated Discworld diary Gollancz has ever produced – full-colour throughout for the first time – and is published in hardback on the 21 August 2014.

Time to do some Hogswatch shopping ....

Enjoy,

D.

Programming for The Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan

2014-07-27T15:04:00.001-07:00

Programming for The Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan in 2015

As many of you know, the World Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention takes place in London in 2014. In 2015, it will be in the U.S. and it's called Sasquan. There is going to be a Great Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan in August of 2015.

Sasquan has asked us to offer Discworld and other programing ideas for this WorldCon, which will host 5,000 or more attendees from all over the U.S., Canada and the world. If you wish to offer DW or other programing ideas, here is the form to use: http://sasquan.org/program/idea-form/

You don't have to buy a membership in order to give suggestions. If you have been to a NADWCon or other DW con please let them know what these cons offered that you enjoyed. (Excepting Terry and Rob, of course, as they can't make it). We know you folks have many skills, a lot of experience, and a wealth of ideas, and now would be a a great time to share these.

Sasquan takes place in Spokane, WA., a gorgeous area in the Pacific Northwest. It is on the west coast of the United States, about 4 hours drive from Seattle, WA. For more information about this convention, please visit http://sasquan.org/

Spokane is a great city with an international airport. For more information about Spokane, WA, please visit http://www.visitspokane.com/

Various North American Discworld Guilds will be joining us in organizing and hosting DW fan events and these include:

The Seamstress Guild (famous for it's parties, it has many decorators, costumers and performers among it's members), the Cunning Artificers (arts & crafts), Musicians (all kinds), Printers & Engravers (our writers and editors), the Dark Clerks (folks who like to organize both paper and people behind the scenes), our fabulous Bakers (lovers of food and drink who may be leading some of our pub crawls), the Witches & Wizards (cunning men and women who love history, myth and folklore), the Librarians (DW book lovers and knowers who often run the DW pub quizes), the various DW Family Groups, the Black Ribboners (DW folks in recovery), and more.

We hope to see you there,

Dj
Chair, Discworld Fan Gathering at Sasquan 2015
Founder, Discworld Seamstress Guild of North America, Est 2001
@ItBodes on twitter
Yada, yada, yada, Ginger

Art: Dragons by Paul Kidby, www.paulkidby.net - used with permission

Announcing the Dates and Location for the North American Discworld Gathering in 2015

2014-04-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

The world is made up of four elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water. This is a fact well known even to Corporal Nobbs. It's also wrong. There's a fifth element, and generally it's called Surprise.

-- Terry Pratchett, The Truth

Ladies and Gentlemen,

There are two things you need to know before we announce the location of the 2015 North American Discworld Gathering:

#1 Sir Terry Pratchett is not able to be with us in person this time, as much as he might like to. Terry and Rob's international travel schedule has changed substantially, and he is focused on his writing, and on forthcoming projects.

Your best chance of seeing Sir Terry in person is to attend the International Discworld Convention in 2014 in Manchester, England, August 8-11, 2014.

Update 7/4/2014 Sadly, Sir Terry has just announced that he cannot now attend the UK con.

#2 There is no seed money available to help fund another NADWCon. As some of you know, NADWCon 2011 did not make a profit, and it appears that NADWCon 2013 did not, either.

A number of people worked very hard on those last two NADWCons. Those of you who have served in the convention trenches will know how hard it is to put on a good, 1,000 person event, let alone one that makes any money.

Many of the fans who’ve been volunteering at NADWCon from the very beginning had imagined that each NADWCon would help construct a solid foundation which would, in turn, support future cons, but things don't always work out as well as we could wish. (1)

Given this news I've just shared, the 2014/2015 team knew that producing another NADWCon in 2015 was going to be a challenge. So, here is where things stand today:

Drum Roll Please .....

Many of you guessed right: Seattle was the chosen venue. (Note the past tense).

and...

We've been discussing dates for this event that ranged from late summer to early fall because we did not wish to compete with our friends at Norwescon; a fantasy and science fiction convention that takes place in Seattle every Spring.

Then this happened ....

Oh, look! Is that a Quantum Butterfly?

An experienced, fun-loving, and collaborative core group of volunteers was deeply engaged in planning when WorldCon, Inc. announced that Spokane, WA had won the 2015 bid for the World Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention. This meant that most of the talent and volunteers on the west coast would now focus their time, resources and attention on that event. Add to this the fact that many of our NADWCon attendees also go to Worldcon; we cannot ask them to fly out to the same location twice in one year.

In light of these circumstances we have decided not to hold a NADWCon but to hold A Great Discworld Gathering at WorldCon in 2015. This WorldCon's official name is Sasquan.

Sasquan will take place in Spokane, WA on August 19th - 23rd in 2015.

They know we're coming:

The Planning Committee is in touch with the organizers of Sasquan. Our job now is to support this large, international convention, and make sure that our Discworld friends have fun while they're there. Our first question to Sasquan was, "How can we help?".

The North American Discworld Guilds are on board, including the Seamstress Guild (extroverted, costume loving party givers) led by their talented Director Missy Hayes. (2) Also with us are the the Dark Clerks (highly organized folks who like to run things backstage), the Printers and Engravers (writers and editors), the Cunning Artificers (arts and crafts), along with musicians, various family groups, and other North American guilds to be named later.

We're planning the Seamstress Guild parties (oh, those parties!), and - pending Sasquan’s approval, where needed - various Discworld meets, panels, classes, arts and crafts, pub crawls, kids events, and lots of fun across this great con for all our Discworld friends.

In a way, this will be like leaving little Lancre to visit Ankh Morpork. You might want to bring The Luggage.

You can buy your membership to Sasquan, at their 2015 WorldCon website:

PLEASE NOTE:

* Sasquan attendees can't book hotel rooms for this con until late summer or early fall of 2014. (See the Sasquan website for details)

* More information about our Discworld events at Sasquan will be forthcoming at our website (nadwcon.org), through social media, and via a newsletter.

That’s all, folks. You now have over fifteen months to make your arrangements. (3) We're going to have a great time. We hope you can join us.

The 2015 Planning Committee

Endnotes:

(1) NADWCon 2009 (the very first NADWCon) was well organized, well attended, great fun, and nicely profitable. The majority of those profits (money raised through ticket and merchandise sales, not including the funds raised for Terry's two charities) were kept by our Arizona hosts, Leprecon, Inc. We understand that some seed money was given to one of the NADWCon co-founders, and we believe that she made these funds available to NADWCon 2011 (for which she served as a senior staff member).

(2) The North American Seamstress Guild was initially founded by Yours Truly in 2001 to create and host a party for Terry at ConJose, a Northern California-based WorldCon, where he was an Honored Guest. We produced this event with the kind support of that con's chair, who is also a friend of Terry's.

Later on, at Terry's request, and with the support of the two ladies who founded NADWCon, and much invaluable help from our fabulous guild members, we designed, organized and hosted the Opening Night Gala for Terry and 600 of our friends at the first NADWCon in 2009.

I asked Missy Hayes to serve as the guild's Director in 2010, and she has proved to be an outstanding leader and manager. Under her direction the Seamstress Guild threw marvelous parties every night at NADWCon 2011, and they provided over 75% of the volunteers for NADWCon in 2013.

(3) Costumers: On Your Mark. Get Set. Sew!

Art: Magnus & Loki by Sarah Clemens, ClemensArt.com

Clues as to the location of the 2015 Discworld Event

2014-04-13T16:15:00.002-07:00

We've been giving out clues as to the location of the 2015 Discworld event on the official NADWCon Facebook page:

The Death Coffee Grinder (seen below) was Hint #1 as to the location of the 2015 Discworld event. Fans have since had a lot of fun guessing in the comments section.

The art at the top of this page was hint #2. It gave an idea as to location and time of year. Oddly enough, some people seem focused on the lighthouse on the left hand side. One clever duck looked up the artist, and found out that the title of this piece is Sasquatch Summer.

Well done.

Dj

*******************

P.S.

We haven't been able to post the event information until just recently. Nor could we say why that was. Understandably, the Discworld fans are anxious to know more, and they want to be able to make plans. These notes below were posted at the FB and Twitter pages earlier in the month.

This note was posted to the NADWCon Facebook page on April 5th:

Things You Should Know: Events outside our control have made it impossible for us to comment on plans for 2015 until just recently. (Work has been going on behind the scenes for the last nine months and we have been communicating with the fans via social media.) The official announcement is planned for April of 2014.

PLEASE NOTE: It is not possible to book a hotel room at the event site until later in the year. We promise to make our announcement in time to give potential attendees well over a year to plan.

We have taken contact info from all those who have volunteered to help thus far, and we are very grateful for everyone's enthusiastic support and patience.

This note was posted to NADWCon FB page on April 9th:

Hi folks. We'd like to thank you all again for your patience and support. As we've said, we had hoped to make our 2015 announcement back in January but events outside of our control made that impossible. As we speak, the Planning Committee is working to solve problems that are none of their making. PLEASE NOTE: If it weren't for these folks, there wouldn't *be* a North American Discworld event in 2015. So please continue to be patient, and please also keep in mind that these people are Discworld fans just like everyone here. Each of them is a volunteer who is working diligently for the benefit of all the Discworld fans in North America. They will receive nothing but your thanks in return for the many hundreds of hours worth of work they put in before, during and after this event.

Regards, and Happy Spring to all here.

(Lots of really nice comments came in, especially after we made that last announcement - I heart Discworld fans)

**************

Happy 30th Birthday to the Discworld!

2013-11-24T15:54:00.001-08:00

It was on this day, 30 years ago that the first Discworld novel, The Color of Magic, was published.

And now, a young Gytha Ogg will sing us a song in honor of the occasion.

anda 1 ... anda 2 (Hop it, people, we're giving you time to run!) and .....

Whither NADWCon? Announcements & News re NADWCon 2015

2013-08-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings all,

A lot of people are asking us about NADWCon 2015. Here is where news about NADWCon will be announced.

North American Discworld Page on Facebook

Please "Like" this Facebook page if you want information on future NADWCon's and any other Discworld related events in North America.

The Steering & Bid Committee, AKA The Guild of Chelonavigators, is re-organizing and I am talking over some new ideas, both with them and with Terry and Rob, as they have the time. Raising Steam is due out this fall so you can imagine how busy the guys are just now. I doubt we'll have a significant announcement about the next con before the end of September or early October.

For those of you not on FB, I will copy the announcements at this blog and on Twitter via @ItBodes.

Later on, most announcements will be made on that new FB page, as well as @nadwcon and www.nadwcon.org but the Baltimore ConCom, AKA Ravenquoth, Inc., still has control of both the official webpage and the twitter feed while they clean up after NADWCon 2013.

Please share this notice as you see fit. Thank you.

Dj for the Guild of Chelonavigators

Art Note: Reference Maven Patty P. writes:

The original image is by Dobrosav BOB Zivkovic. Someone else must have turned it into an animation later (hence the change in background/buildings).
http://adorababble.tumblr.com/post/21615163800/wonderfulbobart-great-atuin-discworld-by

The All Guilds Party & Fashion Show

2013-07-05T23:46:00.001-07:00

The All Guilds party at NADWCon 2013 is going on as I write. Conceived and organized by Seamstress Guild Director, Missy Hayes* it is both a party and an All Comers Fashion Show. Missy designed this event to allow all the North American Discworld Guilds to shine. All con attendees are welcome.

I imagine that some great stories and photos will come out of this one: Have fun, folks!

D.

* Missy is also the Volunteer Coordinator for this convention.

Greetings to North American Discworld Fans from Terry & Rob

2013-07-05T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hello all.

Long time, no blog.

Some of you have wondered about the radio silence on my Discworld blog since 10/2012. As you may know, I am not on the Baltimore Con Committee for NADWCon 2013 and the Con Chair felt that it was important that his be the only voice for that convention. In that case, the only decent thing to do was to put the blog on hold while he and the team in Baltimore organized their event. Volunteers started arriving for set up last Tuesday and NADWCon 2013 officially starts today. Best wishes to all involved.

As many of you now know, Terry and Rob reluctantly announced last Sunday that they are unable to attend. Here is a note regarding their announcement which I published at the various Discworld Facebook guild pages on 7/3, with their permission:

Greetings all,

I had a lovely, long chat on the phone with Terry and Rob yesterday. Terry is in good health and he feels great. The writing and polishing on the new book is going well even with their grueling schedule. (As you know, they have a number of Discworld and charity related projects in hand, and they are working day and night like a couple of Golems.) Both guys are very excited and happy about "Raising Steam". From what I've heard, Terry is in great form, and we can expect a classic Discworld novel that is bound to become a fan favorite.

Both men send their best regards to their American friends. They are sorry they can't be at NADWCon this year and they would like to thank the fans for understanding that the publication schedule had to take precedence.

Denise Connell
Founder, Seamstress Guild of North America

I'm afraid that I can't be there, either. Family duties required that I cancel our hotel reservations five months ago. But I have been working behind the scenes nonstop to help the Discworld Seamstress Guild and the US Dark Clerks gather volunteers for this convention for two years now, and so I'd like to send out my greetings to Seamstress Guild Director Missy Hayes and all the other great folks who have given their time and their talents for Sir Terry and the fans.

My thoughts are with you this weekend. Have fun!

Denise

CapClave 2012: Where Reading Is Not Extinct

2012-10-09T15:00:00.000-07:00

Close to 400 people (many Discworld fans among 'em) will be gathering in Washington, D.C. this October 12 - 14th for a charming convention "Where reading is not extinct". It is called Capclave.

The website describes Capclave as a:

Small relaxed literary convention with a program that usually focuses on the short fiction form. Our Guests of Honor and other notable authors, editors, artists, and fans of the short fiction form will explore the creation and enjoyment of short fantasy and science fiction genre stories.

Past Capclaves have hosted discussions with authors and fans; readings by authors; a dealer's room with books, magazines, artwork, crafts, and other science fiction and fantasy related items; exhibits by artists; space science presentations from NASA; a hospitality suite; room parties; interesting conversations with other fans and professionals; and a relaxed atmosphere for visiting old friends and meeting new friends.

The Washington Science Fiction Association's Small Press Award short list is now out. The winner of this award will be announced at Capclave.

I am told Capclave has a very nice line up of stories this year. If you live in the area and love reading, this is one convention you won't want to miss.

Dj

Registration Is Back Up for NADWCon 2013

2012-10-06T14:40:00.001-07:00

As many of you know, registration for NADWCon 2013 closed down on July 29th. This led to rumors at the Chicon7 World Science Fiction and Fantasy convention and elsewhere that this con was not going to happen after all. Happily, the Seamstress Guild was throwing one of their infamous (excuse me) famous Discworld Parties at Chicon7 and they were able to counter those rumors.*

Missy Hayes, the Director of the North American Seamstress Guild, as able to take con registrations at Chicon7 by using her smart phone and paper registration forms. (Seamstress can do it any way that works, my friends, including going Old School at need).

This put Missy at some personal financial risk, so I would especially like to thank her and all of her team for throwing such a great party and supporting the con when the chips were down. Well done, ladies and gentlemen! I'm sure that the organizers appreciate all your efforts on their behalf.

I received word last night from the Chair that the Baltimore ConCom has fixed the problem and their on-line registration page is now once again active. **

I'm sure that he would want me to thank all of the Discworld fans who've been waiting for months to buy tickets to this con for their patience and support. You folks have been grand.

You can register for NADWCon 2013 via the website. The $88 price will be in effect for a short time only, so if you want the lowest price now is a good time to buy your tickets.

Dj

* I did my own, small bit here for the cause at this blog in order to keep the fans informed and the Chair posted an update on the NADWCon site in late September.

** I waited to announce this because we heard that there were still a flew glitches as of last night but the their registration page seems to be working well as of this morning.

Art: Cards with Discworld images by Peter Dennis, Ankh-Morpork Board Game, Treefrog Games

Wearing Purple for Pratchett on Alzheimer's Awareness Day

2012-09-21T12:15:00.001-07:00


The Seamstress Guild is wearing purple today to honor Terry Pratchett

Today is Alzhemier's Awareness Day and Terry Pratchett reminds us that People With Dementia Deserve A Hearing.

Many of us are wearing purple today, putting up purple images like this one on our Facebook and Twitter pages, and posting links to news stories about Alzheimer's.

That's because many of us know someone who has Alzehimer's or who is caring for a loved one who has it.

Pleae donate or help Walk for the cure. Support the cause any you can.

Thank you,

Dj


The Quantum Butterfly reminds us that Alzheimer's affects everyone.

You can see more of the Seamstress Guild's images by going to their facebook page.

Alzehimer's research is one of the two NADWCon charities approved by Sir Terry that we support. We hope to see you at the North American Discworld Convention in Baltimore in 2013.

Discworld Fans Celebrate Terry Pratchett On Twitter Today With #ILovePratchett Hashtag

2012-09-19T16:36:00.001-07:00

Twitter friends

We are celebrating

Sir Terry Pratchett today with

#ILovePratchett

Use the hashtag and

read the great tweets

collected and re-posted

by Terry's YA editor

at Harper Collins

Anne Hoppe

@AHedit on Twitter

Terry Pratchett coming to U.S. for release of Dodger

2012-09-17T14:31:00.002-07:00

Updated October 5th, 2012

Please NOTE! We're thrilled Terry is coming for events, but he is NOT signing anything on US tour. Please help us help adoring fans understand that Sir Terry cannot sign things on tour. We are anxious that no one be disappointed! - Anne Hoppe HarperCollins

BREAKING NEWS:

Anne Hoppe at Harper Collins writes:

REJOICE! Sir Terry Pratchett comes to the States--NYC and Chicago--mid-October to celebrate the release of DODGER!

Details to follow!

You can follow Anne via her twitter page:

https://twitter.com/AHedit

Doing the Happy Dance ...

Update 9/18/2012 Anne has just posted the details.

The inimitable award-winning and New York Times bestselling author, Sir Terry Pratchett, is touring three US cities for his newest novel, DODGER!
Friday, October 12th – New York, NY
New York Comic Con
Unbound Stage Appearance @ 1PM

Meet & Green @ 5:15PM
***Note: Must have ticket to New York Comic Con to gain entrance to this event

Saturday, October 13th – New York, NY
Barnes & Noble Union Square
2PM EST

Tuesday, October 16th – Chicago, IL
Pfeiffer Hall Auditorium in Naperville, IL
Hosted by Anderson’s Bookshop
7PM CST

Order your copy of DODGER today!

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Dodger-Terry-Pratchett/dp/0062009494/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347913670&sr=1-1&keywords=dodger+terry+pratchett

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dodger-terry-pratchett/1108621129?ean=9780062009494

Books-a-million: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Dodger/Terry-Pratchett/9780062009494?id=5479137438710

Indiebound: http://www.indiebound.org/book/9780062009494

It's Still Magic....

2012-09-14T11:36:00.001-07:00