— “We earth men have a talent for ruining big, beautiful things.” That statement seems eerily on point for what’s going on in the world right now, but it’s actually a quote from “The Martian Chronicles,” written by Ray Bradbury back in 1950. Works from authors such as Bradbury and Isaac Asimov as well as newer books from fantasy and science fiction authors are the centerpiece of Norwescon, which takes place from April 18 through April 21. While its focus is literary, the event also includes other media such as movies and games. It’s also where the annual Philip K. Dick Awards are presented for new science fiction books.
— Everyone has some biases in their life, but those biases can bleed into the development of artificial intelligence in ways we may not realize. This is the topic of EqualAI, which takes place on April 17. This presentation will focus on how companies can reduce biases slipping into their algorithms by helping employees to reduce biases in real life.
Here are more highlights from the GeekWire Calendar:
- TiE Entrepreneur Institute, Module III: The first in a number of presentations to help new business owners at Miller Nash Graham & Dunn in Seattle; 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18.
- Crossing US-Japan Boundaries: A Tech Exec’s Guide to Thriving in a Global Economy: A presentation about how startups can prepare themselves to do business on a global scale at Anthony’s Forum at the University of Washington in Seattle; 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 18.
- Additive Tomorrow: 3D Printing is Just Getting Started: A presentation about the latest advancements in 3D printing technology and its uses at Thinkspace in Seattle; 7 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18.
- Sakura-Con: A convention focused on anime at Washington State Convention Center in Seattle; Friday, April 19 – Sunday, April 21.
- Cinerama’s Anime Film Series: A showing of 18 popular anime films at Cinerama in Seattle; Friday, April 19 – Wednesday, April 24.
- How Startup Valuation Works: A presentation for startups about how to determine their companies’ value and have discussions with investors at the University of Washington in Seattle; 12 to 1 p.m. Friday, April 19.
- Partner Power Hour: Demystifying Web Accessibility: A presentation about web accessibility and where to start at Code Fellows in Seattle; 12:15 to 1 p.m. Friday, April 19.