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(12) FIRST FANDOM. Sarah A. Chauer has launched a new podcast, “First Fandom,” which explores the intersection of fandom and mental health. The first episode features a conversation with author Seanan McGuire.

“’First Fandom’ is a podcast about the intersections of fandom and mental health. I wanted to create a space where people could talk openly and honestly about their experiences with mental illness, and how those experiences intersect with their fandom. Fandom can be a powerful force for good in people’s lives, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. I wanted to explore both sides of that equation, and to create a community where people could feel comfortable sharing their experiences.”

You can listen to the first episode of “First Fandom” on Anchor, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.

(13) VERTICAL FLIGHT. In “The Urban Wilds: How Cities Are Becoming Home to Giant Trees and Vertical Forests”, Fast Company explores the trend of building vertical forests and green walls in cities as a way to mitigate the effects of climate change and improve air quality.

“As cities grow and urbanize, they’re increasingly looking for ways to incorporate more greenery into their structures. This can take the form of vertical forests, where trees are grown up the sides of buildings, or green walls, which are covered in plants and flowers. These structures can provide a range of benefits, from purifying the air to providing habitat for wildlife. They can also help to mitigate the effects of climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide and reducing the urban heat island effect.”

(14) KICKSTARTER ALERT. The Steampunk World’s Fair is coming to Kansas City in May 2023, and they’re using Kickstarter to fund the event.

“Join us for the Steampunk World’s Fair, a celebration of art, fashion, music, literature, and all things steampunk! The event will take place May 12-14, 2023 at the Kansas City Convention Center in Kansas City, Missouri. We are excited to bring this unique and captivating community together for a weekend of discovery, imagination, and entertainment. Join us for a rollicking adventure through a world of steam-powered wonder!”

(15) AUDIO THEATRE. Jared D. Smith says “If you’re a fan of audio dramas, be sure to check out ‘The Black Tapes’, a podcast-style audio drama that combines elements of horror, mystery, and science fiction. The show is currently running its third season, and has been praised for its immersive storytelling and spooky atmosphere.”

(16) FANZINES. The fourth issue of “The Fanzine”, a “fannish zine for the 21st century”, is now available for download. The issue includes articles on “The Companions of Doctor Who” and “The Magic of Tove Jansson’s Moomins”.

(17) WRITING AWARDS. The Nebula Awards, given by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, have announced the finalists for the 58th Annual Nebula Awards. The winners will be announced at the Nebula Awards Weekend in May.

(18) POP CULTURE. In “The Myth of the Creative Genius”, The Atlantic explores the idea that creativity is not a rare gift, but rather something that can be learned and developed.

“The idea of the creative genius has long been a staple of popular culture, with images of tortured artists and writers pouring their hearts and souls into their work. But research has shown that creativity is not something that you either have or you don’t. Rather, it is a skill that can be learned and developed through practice and repetition.”

(19) PATREON. Chuck Palahniuk is using Patreon to fund his next novel, “Brightener”.

“I’m writing a new novel called BRIGHTENER, and I want YOU to help me make it happen. I’m using Patreon as a way to fund the project, and in return for your support, you’ll get access to exclusive updates, early chapters, and even a say in the story’s direction.”

(20) LAST CALL. The deadline for the 2023 Hugo Awards is fast approaching – March 15. Get your nominations in!

“The 2023 Hugo Awards are coming! Nominations are open until March 15, 2023. You can nominate works published or released in 2022 in the following categories: Best Novel, Best Novella, Best Novelette, Best Short Story, Best Related Work, Best Graphic Story, Best Dramatic Presentation, and more!”

Those are the links I’ve gathered this week. If you have any other news or tips, feel free to add them in the comments!

This entry was posted in SFF Chronicle and tagged Chuck Palahniuk, First Fandom, John Scalzi, J.K. Simmons, Neil Gaiman, Sarah A. Chauer, Seanan McGuire, The Black Tapes, The Fanzine, The Nebula Awards, The Steampunk World's Fair, Vertical Flight, William Gibson. Bookmark the permalink.