World Suicide Prevention Day 2012

Today's World Suicide Prevention Day. According to the stats, every 18 minutes, someone dies from a suicide. Every 43 seconds, someone attempts one. In memory of Katherine, and others, who are still sore-missed, learn the facts. Learn to talk about it.


I respect everyone's right to choose their path...but nobody should ever feel it's their ONLY choice.



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In other news, the fact that there are stupid, willfully misinformed, emotionally stunted and otherwise oblivious people out there should not be a surprise to anyone over the age of 8. Can we please stop pointing at them and howling? They're not going to change, and the howling doesn't get anything fixed.

The Baltimore Book Festival, and my part in it.

The Baltimore Book Festival features hundreds of appearances by local, celebrity and nationally known authors, book signings, more than 100 exhibitors and booksellers, nonstop readings on multiple stages, cooking demos by top chefs, poetry readings, workshops, panel discussions, walking tours, storytellers and hands-on projects for kids, live music, and a delicious variety of food, beer and wine. 

I'll be taking part, along with a number of SFWA folk, at our Very Own Pavilion!  (ok, a tent. Hush.)  If you're in the area, come on by, rain or shine!

Friday, September 28th

@7pm Babes in Space, Both Stories and Art
Remember those women in skin-tight bodices and space helmets? How has the role of women in science fiction changed? We’ll look at how stories and covers have evolved over the years.
Panelists: Jack McDevitt, Catherine Asaro, Brenda Clough, and Laura Anne Gilman

Saturday, September 29th

@2pm Crossing-genres, Big-time
Science fiction and fantasy have joined forces with many other popular genres. Come hear about our cross-over to other types of fiction, including mystery, graphic novels, historical fiction, and romance.
Panelists: Laura Anne Gilman, Stephanie Dray, Harry Heckel, and Phillippa Ballantine

@3pm Readings with SFWA authors
Come listen to SFWA authors read from their work, engage them in Q&A, and win great prizes!
Panelists: Laura Anne Gilman, Harry Heckel, and Carmen Ferreiro-Esteba

6pm RECEPTION/AUTOGRAPHING: OPEN TO ALL
Join us for a reception and autograph session with authors from the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America. Enjoy good conversation, soft live music, and plenty of food and drink.

Sunday September 30th

@12pm (noon) SIGNING (at the SFWA booth)
Books will be available for purchase!