I’m trying something new, an attempt at more regular blogging, forcing myself to get into the habit so I can communicate more regularly with friends and fans.
This past week was interesting as we wrapped up at the academic year. Monday, of course, was Memorial Day, which saw me toiling away at the desk, but happily so. The goal that day was to outline a short story intended to kill two birds with one stone. More when it happens, but it got a positive thumbs up from a colleague. The writing will commence this week, which I am using to warm up as I transition from teacher to write.
Tuesday and Wednesday were the final two teaching days. My freshmen completed Media Literacy Capstones, some of which were done early enough to present. With every passing day, I realize how important the topic is and will continue to be as we train tomorrow’s leaders to discern real from fake and how to check. The sophomores read Zora Neale Hurston’s “Sweat,” which I had hoped would lead to some good discussion but they had other ideas. I also chaired out AI working group, reviewing student survey results on the topic and redrafting our academic policy for next year.
Wednesday night, the HOA had its annual meeting and while I was not up for election, did find myself selected by the newly constituted board as president for another year. We did welcome aboard two new members, so that was good.
Thursday and Friday were finals review, a combination of discussion and gamified activities. And just like that, classes ended.
As it was, I bolted Friday to drive to Trek Long Island, but weekend traffic thwarted me, so I managed to get to Long Island, but stopped at my host’s home rather than make it to Happhague. At least I got to catch up with them and enjoy a nice meal.
Saturday was fun as I arrived and set up my table and then hung out with peers and friends. The first three hours were panels, starting with the first of what will be a year-long series of Peter David Memorial panels from coast to coast. Kathleen and their daughter Caroline were there, each speaking publicly for the first time about the man. It was filled with laughter and stories, as Peter would want it.
Then there was the authors panel as we packed the main stage. This was spoiled as a kitchen fire had us evacuate the building not once, but twice. We all stood scattered about the hotel and many of the media guests, led by an ebullient John Billingsly, chatted casually with the fans.
Finally, there was a Sherlock Holmes panel as Keith DeCandido, Mary Fan, Michael Jan Friedman, Derek Tyler Attico, and I discussed all things Baker Street. Derek, arriving last, got stuck moderating and rose to the occasion.
Saturday night a bunch of us, including some of Shore Leave’s staff, went to a local diner for dinner, reminding me how much I enjoy a good diner with a robust menu. Our waitress said she loved reading and with her approval, tipped her with a signed book.
Sunday proved to be a quiet day as I sold a mere two books, but had fun talking with folk. Mike, Glenn Hauman, and I also managed to attend a private virtual shiva for Peter where I got to see members of his family for the first time in ages. I also participated in a Star Trek in Print panel, moderated by Glenn Greenberg, which included, yet again, Keith and Mike.
Overall, it was a solid convention, with satisified guests and fans and I hear planning for their fourth outing has begun.
What’s On TV
Deb and I tend to cycle through a wide variety of series, trying to mix genres and tones. As we complete one, we see what other flavors are in the queue. So, we’re currently working through Industry season three (which I find pretty engaging), Etoile (more fun from the Palladinos), Andor (some fine politics but maybe deeper characterization was needed for some), Pachinko (really interesting as it spans the generations), Slow Horses (a solid second season), and Hacks (can’t wait to get to the season four finale).
On my own, I am finishing Elsbeth which is entertaining enough thanks to Carrie Preston and an under-utilized Wendell Pierce, the final two Doctor Whos (and the spoilers flew on Saturday, annoying me), and Black Mirror season seven.
It’s gotten that we need to use an app (Serialzd) to keep track and every Friday, Deb circles movies and TV series to add to our growing list of Watchlist.
What I’m Reading
On my night table is the third and final volume of The Night Eaters from Marjorie Lu and Sana Takeda, which I need to review for ComicMix. On my Kindle is a mammoth collection of essays from historian Jill Lapore. And on audio, I am deep into the second Rebecca Yaros romantasy Iron Wing, which I find really interesting, forcing myself to look past the hyperbolic romance aspects.