Session One
Saturday, November 8, 2025
9:00 am to 10:00 am
Carroll University, Rankin Hall
In Memory Of Michael Giorgio: For The Love Of Mystery
Rankin Hall, Room 201
Panelists:
Patricia Skalka
Kathleen Ernst
Mary Ann Noe
Karen Cutler Drecktrah
Moderated by Kathie Giorgio
Description: In June of 2024, Wisconsin mystery author Michael Giorgio tragically lost his life after being struck by a passenger van in downtown Milwaukee. In this panel, we pull together Michael’s love of history and mystery and present four authors who will talk about the mystery and historical genres, in celebration of Michael and his work.
The Legend Of The Onion
Rankin Hall, Room 230
Panelists:
Christine Wenc
Rich Dahm
Scott Templeton
Moderated by Larry Nelson
Description: In 1988, a newspaper formed in Madison, Wisconsin, that was destined to become a legend, a source of joy and humor, and a necessity for readers everywhere. Come hear about the journey.
Wisconsin & Milwaukee Poets Laureate In Conversation
Rankin Hall, Room 240
Panelists:
Brenda Cárdenas
Shelly Conley
Moderated by Margaret Rozga
Description: Between them, Cardenas and Conley share a vast amount poetic and lifetime experience. Listen in as they discuss life, poetry, and the joys of being a poet laureate.
Series Vs. Sequel
Rankin Hall, Room 320
Panelists:
Carrie Newberry
J.R. Konkol
Ross Hightower
Moderated by Kathy Randall
Description: You can’t read just one! These authors talk about the drive to write series, encompassing a story that just can’t be contained in one book. They’ll also talk about the difference between writing a series and writing a sequel – how do you know when you’re done?
Nature’s Words
Rankin Hall, Room 330
Panelists:
James Buchholz
Jacob Boyd
Betsy Korbinyr
Moderated by Richard Hedderman
Description: State parks and nature trails call these writers to share their experience with the great outdoors in words.