Laura J. Underwood
Laura J. Underwood has been writing stories, articles, and novels most of her life. She is a retired librarian and a former fencer whose interests range from old folklore to ball-jointed dolls to collecting old typewriters. Most of her still-published work is available from Yard Dog Press, though occasionally you will find a story by her in Lorelei Signals. Her novel Songs of the Magister will be forthcoming from Wolfsinger Publications, and she is currently working on the next book in the Ard Magister series. She still lives in East Tennessee where she likes to go hiking now and again.
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9:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Crimson Meeting Room
Stellarium: Myths and Legends of the Night Sky
What do the stars say? Across cultures and religions, the night sky has inspired myths, legends, and spiritual beliefs. This panel will uncover the stories behind constellations and their significance in folklore, mythology, and history.
Moderator: Mel. White
Panelists: Laura J. Underwood, Joshua Caudill, Mel. White
5:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Crimson Meeting Room
The Golden Age of Sci-Fi: What Makes Classic Stories Endure?
What elements from the "Golden Age" of science fiction continue to captivate audiences today? Panelists explore timeless classics and why these stories still resonate with modern readers and viewers.
Moderator: Mark Alfred
Panelists: Raymond Markley, Laura J. Underwood, Mark Alfred, Paul Carlson
6:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Bedlam 1 Boardroom
Author Readings
Hear the written word come to life! Join us for a special session where featured authors read selections from their works—ranging from sneak peeks of upcoming releases to fan-favorite passages. Whether it’s science fiction, fantasy, horror, or heartfelt memoir, these readings offer a unique chance to experience stories in the voices of the people who created them.
Moderator: Madilynn Dale
Panelists: Madilynn Dale, Laura J. Underwood
7:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Crimson Meeting Room
Caption That Scene!
Ever watched a random movie scene and thought, "What is going on here?" Now's your chance to rewrite it! In this interactive panel, panelists will come up with hilarious captions for out-of-context scenes, and you, the audience, will get to join in the fun too! Submit your own captions for a chance to hear them read aloud -- and maybe even win a prize for the funniest one. It's a fast-paced, creative, and laugh-filled experience where anything goes!
Moderator: Gypsy Jess
Panelists: Court's Cosplay, Pancake Gal, GoldenReliic, Gypsy Jess, Laura J. Underwood