FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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CONTACT: Matt Arnold, Chair: (248) 787-7436

Upcoming convention mixes computer know-how, science fiction, and fun

ROMULUS – Professional development, “Open Source” cola, literary panels and swordfighting demonstrations.

Sound like an unlikely combination? Not at all, according to organizers of PenguiCon, which is coming to the Troy Hilton April 20 – 22. PenguiCon, the only event of its kind in the country, brings together hard-core computer professionals, science fiction fans, gaming experts and, “All sorts of intelligent people who just like to have fun,” according to Convention Chair Matt Arnold. The event will be held at the Crowne Plaza at 8000 Merriman Road.

Event organizers said that they are once again holding the event, now in its seventh year, because of the “natural fit” between the various speakers and guests who attend.

“Where else can you have an introduction to open source programming, stand-up comedy by a Star Trek actor, and a weekend-long party of literate people all in one place?” said Arnold.

“I became involved with the convention because it's an anarchic hotbed of intelligence and creativity, a geek Woodstock, a true Nerdvana. At PenguiCon, you can be discussing characters with your favorite author one moment, getting help installing Linux on your laptop the next – and enjoying a swordfighting demonstration in your spare time. Penguicon is where creative and technical dreamers meet the visionaries who are creating the future.”

Guests at this year’s PenguiCon include actor and author Wil Wheaton from the TV series Star Trek: The Next Generation, and science fiction author Spider Robinson.

PenguiCon isn’t limited to computer geeks and science fiction literati, however. In addition to software and literature-related programming, PenguiCon participants will enjoy both live-action and computer gaming, swordfighting demonstrations by Aegis Consulting, a metro-area martial arts school, and other activities ranging from watching anime to the yearly Chocolate Ritual.

“The people who come to PenguiCon each year can best be described as ‘eclectic,’ – and that’s what we strive to be to please them,” said Arnold.

For more information or to register visit the PenguiCon Web site at www.penguicon.org.