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Preliminary Program & Events List

Track NameTypeKids CategoryTitleDescription
AnimePanelWelcomeChild-Safe AnimeFinding anime that is safe for children to watch may be difficult for parents. Selecting a child-friendly anime series may be difficult without recommendations. Learn more about popular series and hidden gems!
AnimePanelWelcomeIntro to AnimeAnime is easily as diverse as any other film medium, with everything from action to romance to intrigue. How can you find what you want? And how can you find it without stumbling into tentacle wielding giant mecha driving by dimensionally dislocated schoolgirls?
AnimePanelWelcomeStudio GhibliA look at the legendary animation studio from its origins, starting with founders Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki working their way up the ladder as animation staff at Toei and Tokyo Movie Shinsha in the 60s and 70s. Then, there's a look to the studio's landmark first feature film, their most recent masterpieces, a peek at clips and sounds from Hayao Miyazaki's forthcoming Ponyo on a Cliff, followed by a screening of Studio Ghibli's latest film, Tales from Earthsea.
ArtPanelWelcomeWhy Buy Art When You Can Get Art For Free?Our artists share their views on being a professional artist and discuss whether art-for-profit makes compromises. How does ease of distribution (and theft) through the Internet affect things?
ArtPanelWelcomeKnittly, Stitchly, QuiltlyShare your interest in these growing hobbies in fandom. Love to start but don't know where? How to spin an SF theme into these crafts and thus marry your two loving hobbies.
ArtParticipatory SessionWelcomeWarmer Winter: Knitting ContestWarmer Winters provides the disadvantaged with warm clothes during the winter by having volunteers knit hats, gloves, scarves, sweaters, and more for them all year round. Come learn more about Warmer Winters, learn to knit (or help others learn), and get free supplies. Show off your creations at the wrap-up on Monday. Beginners welcome. Prizes for those who knit the most during the weekend.
ArtPanelWelcomeBuilding more than oneYou built one, and now there's a need to make a dozen more! The panelists will discuss their favorite techniques for small production runs of handmade objects, and talk about how to estimate time and materials when doing this.
ArtParticipatory SessionWelcomeDraw and JawWhether you are a seasoned professional or a certified novice, come and join other artists to share your skills and works. Exchange tips and suggestions, or just chat in the way that only artists can. Please bring your own drawing materials as a selection of objects will be provided for still life
ArtPanelWelcomeThe Art of TarotMany artists are creating tarot decks. Why did they feel the calling to create a deck? What are the reasons behind their imagery? Join the artist in a discussion of their crafting of a deck.
ArtParticipatory SessionWelcomeWarmer Winters: Wrapping UpA followup to the Warmer Winters Introduction on Friday. Come by and see what we accomplished this weekend.
ArtPanelWelcomeJuicing the MuseKeeping the flow of ideas coming, setting up the circumstances that lets your best work be done -- it's an ongoing challenge. How do we do it?
ArtParticipatory SessionWelcomeArt Show Tour with MarrusMarrus takes you through the art show, sharing her perspectives on the works.
ArtPanelWelcomeTurning Pictures in a Head into a Roof Over ItHow to make a living as an artist. How to work for yourself and be a success.
ArtParticipatory SessionTargetedYoung artist portfolio review with MarrusYounger members (18 & under) are invited to bring 3-5 of their best pieces for a portfolio review. Marrus will answer questions on becoming & being an artist. First come, first served basis, so please be considerate of your fellow artists' time!
ArtPresentationWelcomeVisit with Marrus at Art ShowPlease join our Artist Guest of Honor, at her table on the 16th floor. Marrus will be available for questions about her paintings, and to review work by con membership - please limit to one piece, due to time considerations.

An excellent and renowned face/body painting artist Marrus will also be available for skin decorating at an additional cost.
ArtPresentationWelcomeSunday Marrus at Art ShowPlease join our Artist Guest of Honor, at her table on the 16th floor. Marrus will be available for questions about her paintings, and to review work by con membership - please limit to one piece, due to time considerations.

An excellent and renowned face/body painting artist Marrus will also be available for skin decorating at an additional cost.
ArtPresentationWelcomeVisit with Marrus at Art ShowPlease join our Artist Guest of Honor, at her table on the 16th floor. Marrus will be available for questions about her paintings, and to review work by con membership - please limit to one piece, due to time considerations.

An excellent and renowned face/body painting artist Marrus will also be available for skin decorating at an additional cost.
ArtPresentationWelcomeOpening Night at the Art Show with MarrusPlease join our Artist Guest of Honor, at her table on the 16th floor. Marrus will be available for questions about her paintings, and to review work by con membership - please limit to one piece, due to time considerations.

An excellent and renowned face/body painting artist Marrus will also be available for skin decorating at an additional cost.
ComicsPanelWelcomeClark "Superman" Kent and Bruce "Batman" WayneThe dual identity of superheroes speaks less to comics' readership than it once did. Comic writers no longer write as much about Superheroes' secret identities. What are comics losing by dispensing with secret identities? Who would write for the Daily Planet if Clark Kent left his job to be a full-time superhero?
ComicsPanelWelcomeSteampunk: Clockwork Minds to Goth with GogglesThere are probably as many definitions of steampunk as there are fans of this genre. Victorian fantasies, coal-fired cyberpunk, anime like the movie Steamboy, the graphic novel Girl Genius, goth bands playing with darkly romantic dirigible imagery, it's all here. What does Steampunk mean to you and how does it power your vision of the world?
ComicsPanelWelcomeComic Books Go to the MoviesComic books and graphic novels are showing up on the big screen, and television. Why so many recently? Are they just easier to adapt? How important is accuracy in the conversion? Is this good or bad for comics?
ComicsPanelWelcomeThe Diversity of CreativityDecades ago, comics were mostly created (80%) by white males. What does the evolving diversity of comic creators show us about modern society?
ComicsParticipatory SessionWelcomeBest Issue and/or Story Arc EverDC's Crisis on Infinite Earths, X-Men: "Days of Future Past", the Marvel Mutant Massacre, Civil War, Identity Crisis and Cerebus' "Church and State". Come discuss what your favorite your favorite issues or arcs and why in this round table discussion.
ComicsPanelWelcomeNo Capes! Non-Superhero ComicsFrom mysteries to romance drama, almost every area of fiction seems to be represented in the comics field, so why don't these titles get more press? Brian Wood's "Channel Zero" is near future science fiction and social commentary. Terry Moore's "Strangers in Paradise" explores the life and romantic entanglement of two lifelong friends. What other non-superhero comics are out there? Bring your examples of other non-hero comics to this panel and share them with our attendees.
ComicsPanelWelcomeMisogyny in ComicsA statue of a scantily-clad Supergirl. Another of Peter Parker's wife doing his laundry, thong showing and breasts hanging out, a vapid smile on her face. Formerly strong women tied up on a comic cover, costumes artfully torn, cowering before a batch of phallic, goo-dripping tentacles. What on earth has gotten into Marvel and DC? How can we fix it?
ComicsPanelWelcomeContinuity? What's that?In the wake of Infinite Crisis and House of M, do back issues matter anymore? When long-standing storylines are ignored or rewritten, does what came before factor into the enjoyment of a title? Is continuity the sign of a well-written story or just obsolete?
ComicsPanelWelcomeSuperman and the Sins of CopyrightDC Comics and Disney have managed to protect their copyrights on their cash cows by quietly forcing through legislation that extends copyright law to 2019, forcing many to wonder if the next move will be for perpetuity. What are the ramifications? Why has a good law that was designed to protect creators and their immediate families become a law to protect corporations? Is copyright a necessary evil or something we should fight against?
ComicsPanelWelcomeGods and MonstersIn a world with Galactus, the Celestials, Darkseid, Zeus, Thor, the wizard Shazam, the Endless, and on and on, what happens to human religion(s)?
ComicsPanelWelcomeXKCD: How Did He Know That About Me?Some geeks suspect Randall Munroe, the author of the webcomic xkcd, of having spies in their brain. What is this comic about, and what makes it so compelling?
CostumingParticipatory SessionWelcomeMary, Mary how does your costume grow?How on earth would you make that? Where you can find that missing piece and unusual fabric? What common home items can be re-appropriated as your perfect talisman? How to transform your dream into reality.
CostumingPanelWelcomeMasquerade for First TimersAre you new to masquerades? Here's the scoop: what to expect, what all those terms mean, how to present your costume and move on stage. We will cover everything you need to know to successfully take part in a masquerade.
CostumingPanelWelcomeMasquerade Show and Tell Masquerade participants bring their costumes to show them off and get the outlook of the judges and other costumers on their efforts.
CostumingParticipatory SessionWelcomeThe MasqueradeThe Masquerade is a contest and display of creativity by your fellow con-goers. After presenting their wonderful creations, they are judged by a panel of costumers and awarded for their efforts. All entries are judged in four categories (Young Fan, Novice, Journeyman, Master) to give everyone a chance. Enjoy the display and stay for the halftime entertainment, a local Middle Eastern Dance Troupe Bad Raqs San'e Sahra + Dancers of the Desert Wind, accompanied by a skilled band of musicians.
CostumingParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentMasquerade RehearsalRun through your Masquerade presentation with Tech. Requires sign-up at the Masquerade registration desk.
CostumingParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentMasquerade Green RoomPreparation room for the masquerade contestants. Opens at 6:30pm, closes not less than one hour after the Masquerade judging ends.
CostumingPanelWelcomeHumor on StageThe pros and cons of being silly on stage. How to present a humorous character or skit. The importance of broadening the scope of your humor for the audience.
CostumingPanelWelcomeAdvanced Costume WeatheringSometimes it's important for your character to look dirty to be convincing. Come learn some techniques for making your costumes looked appropriately worn, weathered or battle-damaged. Topics will include distressing cloth, tea/coffee, airbrush, rattle can, acrylics, hairspray and dirt.
CostumingMeetingWelcomeMandatory Masquarade Contestant MeetingOrientation and introduction meeting for the masquerade contestants before tech rehearsals start. All masquerade participants must attend.
CostumingParticipatory SessionWelcomeBeading WorkshopIntermediate Beading on Fabric workshop. Materials are available for purchase at the workshop.
CostumingPanelWelcomeMolding and CastingCreating masks, props and prosthetics for costuming using clay, plaster, resin and other materials. This panel will feature a hands-on demonstration.
CostumingMeetingWelcomeNorthern Lights Costumers' Guild MeetingOpen meeting of the Northern Lights Costumers' Guild, a chapter of the International Costumers Guild. Come meet some of the people who ran this year's Arisia Masquerade, find out what's happening in costuming in the New England Area, and consider joining the Guild.
CostumingParticipatory SessionWelcomeKids Masquerade Green RoomGreen Room for children to prepare for the Masquerade.

Please feed your children dinner before you bring them to the room, there will be some munchies, but no real food.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeFannish Disaster PreparednessHow to protect what's important to you from random acts of disaster. How do I protect my books from flooding? What is a good off-site email storage solution? Homeowner's and renter's insurance: what they cover and what they don't. What foods should I keep on hand, other than the Coke and Twinkies?
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentSaturday Morning YogaStart off a long, exciting day of con right. Join us for yoga to relax your mind and strengthen your body.
Fannish LifestylePanelOnly w/ ParentResponsible MonogamyYou've found the love of your life. Now what? How do you keep love strong without stifling each other or boring yourselves? Come talk about how you can reach your golden anniversary.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeSaturday Club DanceOnce again, DJ Johnny Zed will bring his eclectic DJing style to Arisia's Saturday Night Club Dance. Spinning until the last dancer drops or until he gets closed down, Johnny will play music from genres ranging from the usual favorite 80s/retro, darkwave/EBM/industrial and beyond! Requests heartily welcomed, and though there's no guarantee that he'll get them all in, he'll damn well try! So get into your dancing gear, and join us for a night on the dancefloor. We can dance if we want to!
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeDrum circleCarry the energy of the night forward by participating in the drum circle.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeMad Scientist Laugh ContestLet the world hear your madness. Who can be most maniacal?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeStraight in a Poly WorldSo there's monogamy on one side of the relationship spectrum and polyamory on the other and never the twain shall meet. But is it really that simple? Is there a middle ground? Monogamy isn't for everyone and neither is polyamory, but how do you tell which is right for you? Join this discussion for those of us who grew up with a one to one relationship ratio worldview as we try to comprehend relationships that involve higher-level mathematics and flowcharts.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeFlirting: Cyber Real Life Or A Balance Between",Are you a bolder flirt in virtual reality -- ala Second Life -- than you are in real life? Do you flirt with friends over IM more then you would ever do at a party the next day? How has removing face-to-face flirting changed how people get to know each other? Has VR helped your RL flirting skills?
Fannish LifestylePanelOnly w/ ParentHumor & SexSex can be a beautiful, poetic expression of love, or a passionate display of lust, but sometimes it can be a comedy of errors. A funny look into where you put that leg, what was that sound and satin sheets sound romantic until you slide off of them.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeDrumming 101Drumming 101, before the drum circle
Fannish LifestyleMeetingWelcomeLiveJournal Meet and GreetLiveJournal! Come meet everyone! Get your ribbon at the InfoDesk and head on in!
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeTarot WorkshopAlways wanted to learn the Tarot but overwhelmed by the complexity? An old hand looking for new ideas? This class introduces the history and artwork of the Tarot from its early roots to modern proliferation.

Students will learn the structure of the deck, explore the Major and Minor Arcana and learn some simple techniques for giving great readings to themselves and others.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeEye of Argon ContestOne more line, just one more line, nope you lost it and dissolved into hysterical laughter! How much of this "story" can you read without falling into a giggle fit? The panelist compete and you judge who wins. You are also welcome to compete.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeExplaining PolyamoryAll of us in the polyamorous lifestyle have had to face misconceptions from time to time. How do we combat popular media stereotypes and talk about our lives in a fashion that doesn't veer off into "`Too Much Information" territory? We will share some practical solutions to real world questions, and a war story or two!
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeLeather Folk, Ren Faire, Star Wars: ConnectionsAs Margaret Cho points out, there seems to be a significant connection between alternate sexuality and fandom. Join us as we explore why that is and whether we think it's a good thing.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeWhy LiveJournal?Friendster, Facebook, Tribe, Diaryland, Vox, Gather, MySpace... there are so many blogging & social networking sites on the net. But here at Arisia you've probably already seen several people introduce themselves by LJ name, and might not have heard any of the other sites mentioned at all. Why is our community so drawn to LiveJournal? Non-LiveJournal users welcome!
Fannish LifestylePresentationWelcomeBelly Dancing ShowCome and enjoy belly dancing routines inspired by the great works of literary and media science fiction and fantasy.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeBelly Dancing ClassCome learn basic belly dancing moves and combinations after the show. Wear clothes you can move in; jinglies optional.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionNot AllowedSpeed DatingLooking for a SMRPG? a BiGLARP? FSFR? Welcome to speed dating
(Single Male into Role Playing Games.. no not that kind... oh maybe)
(Bisexual Girl into Live Action Role Play... eeks not again)
(Female Science Fiction Reader)
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeCharity begins with SFA discussion of the ways that some area fan groups have been able to use their science fiction interests to help out their communities. Groups include The Heinlein Society, 501st and Rebel Legion Star Wars Costume Groups and the New England Browncoats There is a long tradition of SF and media fan clubs doing charity work. How can your club get involved?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeAbout the 501stWhat started as a couple of guys dressing up in Star Wars Stormtrooper armor at conventions turned into a world-wide organization of almost 4000 members. Come learn about the history of 'Vader's Fist', the 501st Legion of Stormtroopers Imperial costuming group.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeWhat am I? A fan? A geek? A nerd?What is a geek? A nerd? A fan? A hardcore fan? Which one are you? What does it mean, and should you even care? Discuss how labels affect fandom and what can be done to benefit from or break down the structures that distinguish us.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentDepression & Creativity workshopDepression and creativity seem to go hand in hand. Some our most significant works of art, film, music and literature have come from the minds of people suffering depression. Names such as Van Gogh, William Faulkner, Irving Berlin, T.S. Eliot and Virginia Woolf come to mind. This workshop is designed to provide answers and support for those suffering from depression particularly in relation to the creative process and to also educate friends and loved ones of people suffering from depression.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeEric in the Elevator - a primerEric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman is our Fan Performer Guest of Honor. Who is he? What does he do? And what floor will he be getting off on?

Enter into the mystery and imagination of our GoH in this hour examination. Going up!
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeBeing a Morning Person in Nocturnal FandomFen are generally thought of as a nocturnal bunch. Many even take this for granted, assuming that all fen are night owls. What does it take to survive as an early riser in fandom? How do you deal with noisy friends up past your bedtime and people who try to invite you out in the middle of the night? More importantly, how do you avoid violence from your sleep-addled roommates early in the morning?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeConvention Party Horror StoriesIf you've been to convention parties, unless you are really lucky, you've probably been to really bad parties. You might have even been to really bad parties this weekend. Let's hear your worst. How bad can it be? Make the party hosts here feel better about whatever might have gone wrong with their party.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeBlllrrrrrrggggghIt's 5:00 AM Monday morning after 3 days of con. This is your mental state, but you are not smart enough to sleep. Come babble incoherently with us.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeLiveJournal & SixApart: Discussing the meltdownOver the past year, the popular blogging site LiveJournal and its owner, SixApart, have made some stunningly boneheaded moves, from opening the site to commercial sponsorship to deleting fannish LJ accounts at the goading of a known white supremacist group. Their PR during this matter has been lacking, to say the least, and many formerly loyal LJers are fleeing to other blogging sites. What went wrong?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeLiveJournal and the Nature of CommunityLJ has risen above all of the other blogging site to become the site of choice. Why? Community - a sense of community that was built into LJ, that the other sites don't have the programming to accommodate. And as LJ grew, the community has grown as well, with thousands of mini-communities. How is LJ *your* community?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeRaising Kids in FandomHow do you introduce your kids to SF/F? What do you do if they're not interested? How can you help them navigate between the worlds of fandom and the mundane? There are all sorts of challenges (and rewards!) to raising a child in fandom. What if you're a fan and your spouse is not? Let's discuss!
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeWhat's Cooking With Food Geekery?From Alton Brown's "Good Eats" to new roleplaying games entirely based on cooking, this panel explores the fannish fascination with matters gastronomical.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeVirtual PanelScience fiction has inspired numerous advances in technology, but how have advances in technology affected science fiction and fandom and the way we communicate as a community? To fully illustrate the concept of this panel, it will be conducted both online and in person.

You can join the cyber part of the panel even if you are not at the con at
Network : irc.foonetic.net
Channel : #arisia
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeHow to be healthy at a conFrom hygiene to baby-care, the panelists describe how to maintain healthy habits at a con
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeThe realities of setting up a businessIn one classic SF plot, a scientist/engineer develops something in his garage, then goes on to sell it to the masses. There's a few steps missing in that plan. Here's what you need to know in case you'd like to follow that particular dream.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeThe IRS and youFrom not-for-profit organizations to mutli-book deals, if money is involved you have to keep records. Who has to know what and when do they have to know it?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeOut and Poly: Do's and Dont'sBeing out as polyamorous isn't always easy, or necessarily advised. Come talk about the do's and don'ts of being out to friends, family, clients and/or co-workers about your many loves.
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeBricks and Mortar vs. Wires and WebsDo you always have to support your local book store? Purchasing books, games and models from the net can save you money, but lose a local store. How can brick-and-mortar bookstores make themselves centers of their communities?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeCarpe Noctum: Fen at NightFen are generally thought of as a nocturnal bunch, but much of the world is not. What does it take to survive as a late riser in the world? How do you deal with noisy neighbors and businesses that close before you wake up? More importantly, how does one avoid violence against perky, early-rising roommates?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeSurviving Your First ConSo much to do. So much to keep track of. We'll tell you about some of the highlights to be sure not to miss and how to keep from wearing yourself out the first day. Remember: 5 hours of sleep, 2 meals, and 1 shower EVERYDAY!
Fannish LifestylePanelOnly w/ ParentAlternate Lifestyles and FandomAlternate lifestyles of all kinds seem to flock together, especially at a con like Arisia. Why is alternative sexuality so common in fandom, and even openly talked about when it is almost completely shunned in the mainstream world? How do we feel about all this adult discussion and behavior in our conventions? Is it appropriate here or should they go get a room?
Fannish LifestylePanelWelcomeWhen Did Society Get So Awesome?Zombie shuffles in the streets. Talk Like a Pirate Day. Pretend to be a Time Traveler Day. 5000 person Zombie vs Human games on college campuses. We have heard about the great stuff that used to happen at places like MIT and CalTech in the old days, but much of that had died down. Now, thanks to the Internet and some enterprisingly awesome people, these hacks are going world-wide. Are we entering a brave new world of awesome? Or is it just a passing fad?
Fannish LifestylePresentationWelcomeResurrection from EdenDr. Rich Staats is also Colonel Staats, USAR. In this seminar, he recalls the lessons learned from his most recent command tour in Iraq. As the director for Iraqi Security Force support, Colonel Staats' responsibilities ranged from the tactical to the strategic. Come and hear his insights. His decorations include a Bronze Star, a Superior Honor award (from the US State Department), and a medal of distinction from Poland.
Fannish LifestylePartyOnly w/ ParentSith Charity BallHis High Exaltedness, the Great Jabba the Hutt has decreed that you are to attend his Sith Charity Ball on Friday 1/18/08 in Ballroom D. Join members of the New England Star Wars community and New England Browncoats in revelry as they raise funds for the Make A Wish Foundation. Photos with Jabba and his entourage and raffle tickets for some rare items will be on sale for this charity. DJ Johnny Zed will keep things moving on the dance floor in our 'wretched hive of scum and villainy'!
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionWelcomeBoF (Birds of a Feather): GeocachingDo you enjoy the idea of using billions of dollars of military hardware (GPS satellites) for your own amusement (to find Tupperware hidden in the woods)? Learn about the game of Geocaching; meet some local geocachers; swap stories; move and discover trackables. Bring your tricor + er, GPS receiver, and any travel bugs/geocoins that you have in your inventory. With a little luck, we'll have this listed as an Event Cache, so this could be your first "find"!
Fannish LifestylePresentationWelcomeHiggins Armory Historical Combat DemonstrationsThe Higgins Armory Sword Guild offers four combat demonstrations and arms and armor presentations at half-hour intervals. Come see what makes the Higgins Armory Museum, the only museum in the Western Hemisphere solely devoted to the arms and armor of the middle ages and Renaissance, unique. The HASG is dedicated to presenting scholarly and accurate interpretations of medieval and Renaissance combat. SF fans will have the opportunity to see techniques that have not been used in over 400 years.
Fannish LifestylePresentationWelcomeHiggins Armory Historical Combat DemonstrationsThe Higgins Armory Sword Guild offers four combat demonstrations and arms and armor presentations at half-hour intervals. Come see what makes the Higgins Armory Museum, the only museum in the Western Hemisphere solely devoted to the arms and armor of the middle ages and Renaissance, unique. The HASG is dedicated to presenting scholarly and accurate interpretations of medieval and Renaissance combat. SF fans will have the opportunity to see techniques that have not been used in over 400 years.
Fannish LifestyleParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentSunday Morning YogaStart off a long, exciting day of con right. Join us for yoga to relax your mind and strengthen your body.
FastTrackPanelTargetedWhich is better: the Book or the Movie?Which Shrek looked more like an ogre - the original picture book or the DreamWorks films? Come discuss your favorites.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionWelcomeHands-On Science for Kids, Take 1Explore the weird world of science with the New England Mad Scientists Guild! Learn about physics and chemistry as you perform fun experiments. Be prepared to get your hands dirty!
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedAmazing WatercolorsWow! Discover the amazing combinations of colors when you sprinkle salt over your masterpiece.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedSound Effects for Story TellingEnhance your stories with sound effects like those heard on radio plays.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedIt's StorigamiStorytelling and Origami
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedMagic: The GatheringPlay Magic....
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedMask MakingMasks make your personality, with costumes or not.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedCartooning & Comic CreatingLearn how to draw cartoons and construct a comic.
FastTrackPresentationTargetedHumorous StoriesFunny Stories
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedCrafting a story, Criss-crossing genres with GoHThis is a special session for our 10-12 yr. fast track participants based on the panel, "It's a fantasy, with romance, and acorpse, and no vampires, and a spaceship." by Laura Anne Gilman
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNo-Sew CostumesCostuming bins open, scissors at the ready, what can you come up with?
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedHaiku for Youpoetry, in small, carefully chosen thoughts.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedTissue Paper CollageCreate a masterpiece of color to take home.
FastTrackPresentationTargetedStar Wars Rebel LegionRebel Legion costumes and discussion
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedKamikaze CostumingFabrics, Pins, Imagination! Come make your own costume. Then, show off your creation in the Masquerade.
FastTrackPanelTargetedBeyond Hogwarts: A Young Fan's Reading ListWhat is out there for kids that doesn't insult the intelligence, but also doesn't fly over the heads faster than a Firebolt?
FastTrackPresentationTargetedMagic ShowSleight of Hand, Illusion, and, possibly, making your best friend disappear -- come to the Arisia Magic Show!
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedDefend Yourself Against the AliensSelf-defense techniques for boys & girls. Learn to defend yourself from insults & actions.
FastTrackPresentationTargetedWhat's a Comet Made Of?Let's look at how NASA is exploring comets then see what they are made of by building our own.
FastTrackPanelTargetedHave Space Suit: Heinlein for JuvenilesHeinlein's juvenile stories have long been admired and imitated, but are they just too dated for today's youth?
FastTrackPresentationTargetedMarvelous Moon Rocks!Use playdough moon rocks to learn how scientists study the real thing.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedPirate Ship Building; or is that a Ninja Castle?Make your own creation with our supply of paper tubes, shiny sticky papers, and homemade playdough.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedOrigami 101Create paper animals, rockets, balls or your own creation using the ancient art of Japanese paper folding.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedChildren's Games for Time TravelersFun games of times gone by.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedCatapults: Early Rocket Science?Just like the machines in Lord of the Rings... but smaller, and all your own.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedA la Ollivander: Magic WandsWhich wand would you choose? Or would it choose you?
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedPipe Cleaner DragonsDesign and make a mythical beast from pipe cleaners.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedBeading is a Way of LifeBeading, with pony beads
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedTeen Beading: Working with Seed BeadsBeading with the little bitty beads... :-)
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedPinch MasksMasks with foam and hot glue. Create your own boogie monster!
FastTrackPanelTargetedStump the Scientists!Come and learn how things really work.
FastTrackPanelWelcomeMagic How-To'sLearn the basics of illusion and sleight-of-hand
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNon-Structured Supervised Free Play1 hour before Fastrack opens Saturday. Indoor voices, please. Saturday
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNominal Quiet Room/Free PlaySaturday indoor voices please
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNon-Structured Supervised Play1 hour before Fastrack opens Sunday. Indoor voices, please.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNomimal Quiet Room/Free PlaySunday Indoor voices please
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedKnit One Pearl Two; Fannish Fiber Arts for KidsKnitting, weaving, finger knitting, crocheting..
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedBuild It with LegosLegos! Brightly colored bits of plastic...and they all snap together!
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedBalloon AnimalsLearn how to make your own balloon art.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedCard Games for the 7-12 SetApples to Apples, Set, Five Kings...
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedMYCHIP Child ID ProjectFor those unfamiliar with the CHIP program it is a Child Identification process. The children (actually any age, as it has been found to be useful in older folks prone to wandering as well) are finger-printed, tooth-printed, DNA swabbed and video-taped answering scripted questions.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedRobots in SpaceMost of us know about NASA's Mars Exploration Rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, but do you know about any other probes that are out in space right now? Do you know what they're looking for, and what they've found? What about other probes that never made it past the drawing board? What's a nanorover? Come explore these questions and more, and make your very own balloon-powered nanorover?
FastTrackPresentationWelcomeGerms: Up Close & PersonalGerms: Up Close & Personal - hear a story about these little critters that have such an Evil Power over our lives, and do a science experiment to discover some unusual vectors of viral and bacterial contagion.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedSix Word StoriesWired Magazine started this concept.
FastTrackPanelTargetedHands-On Science for Kids Take TwoHave you always wanted to be a mad scientist? Bring your lab coat and safety glasses and put your science knowledge to the test. Budding chemists and physicists can recreate some of the experiments at home.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedOrigami/Kirigami 201Create paper animals, rockets, balls or your own creation using the ancient art of Japanese paper folding and paper cutting.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedFace PaintingFace painting takes another dimension... Come learn the techniques of creative face painting: brushes, stencils, sponges, and your imagination.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNomimal Quiet Room/Free Play 5 hr.Monday Indoor voices please
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNominal Quiet Room/Free PlayFriday Indoor voices, please.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedFree Play...Unstructured, Friday unsupervised play room.
FastTrackPanelTargetedScience Fiction is a Girl thing too!Is Science Fiction only aimed at boys? We ask a selection of prominent authors to offer us their opinions and suggestions, for girls and boys, too.
FastTrackPanelTargetedWhat Would My Super Power Be? (for Kids)If I were to choose, what special powers would I have?
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedLearn a Bit of KarateLearn a few basic karate moves. (No hitting allowed.)
FastTrackParticipatory SessionWelcomeCard GamesFluxx, Munchkin, Chrononauts, Apples to Apples - stop in and have some fun!
FastTrackParticipatory SessionWelcomeKnight TrainingLearn the basics of sword-fighting (just like in the movies!) using kid-safe foam weapons in high-energy games. At the end, participants will be knighted in a special ceremony!
FastTrackPanelTargetedCreative Interviewing with the Fan GoHEric will show how he creates impromptu interviews, and will coach participants to interview each other in the style of his "Eric in the Elevator" show.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedNinjas vs Pirates gaming sessionCome learn a new game from the game designers.
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedHammers, Lasers, Mirrors gaming sessionAnother gaming session just for kids brought to you by the game designers
FastTrackParticipatory SessionTargetedHow to Build a BEMUse your imagination, scare your little sister (or your mother!) with your latest creation.
FastTrackReadingWelcomeReading from "Rabbits, Rabbits Everywhere"Award winning children's author Ann McCallum will do a reading from her newest book "Rabbits, Rabbits Everywhere.
FilkParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentFilking Into the Night - Open FilkingHear filk in its native environment! Make music happen. Sing! Play! Clap hands! Listen! Join the merriment! No experience necessary.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcomeNESFA Songbook Sing-a-longGroup singing from the NESFA Hymnal, a collection of filk songs to well-known tunes. Singers and listeners both welcome. Loaner hymnals provided. Here is a chance for new filkers to learn a few songs and experienced filkers to sing some old favorites.
FilkPanelWelcomeWhat is this thing called Filk? (Filk 101)Everything you need to know about filk. What is filk music? Where do you find it? How do you filk? What should you expect at a filk sing? The panelists will answer these questions and perhaps provide some musical examples.
FilkParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentFilking Into the Night - Open FilkingHear filk in its native environment! Make music happen. Sing! Play! Clap hands! Listen! Join the merriment! No experience necessary.
FilkMeetingWelcomeMASSFILC MeetingMonthly business meeting for MASSFILC. MASSFILC (www.massfilc.org) is a club that hosts monthly filk sings, publishes song books, and every few years host the northeast floating filk convention (www.nefilk.org for information). Contact MASSFILC at info@massfilc.org for more information. The meeting is open to all.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcomeSong Circle: Secret Ninja SongsSongs about ninjas. Songs by ninjas. Songs so secret we'll have to kill you after you've heard them. Bring songs to share. Musicians and listeners welcome.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcomeSong Circle: Sea ShantiesSo much science fiction has been inspired by the sailing adventure novels of yore. Go back to the future with songs of ships of the sea and ships of the great beyond.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcomeSong Circle: Pithy Piratical AnthemsYo, yo, how pirates like to sing. Bring your songs about pirates, be they traditional pirates, space pirates, software pirates, or some other type of bloody pirate. Listeners and performers welcome.
FilkParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentFilking Into the Night - Open FilkingHear filk in its native environment! Make music happen. Sing! Play! Clap hands! Listen! Join the merriment! No experience necessary.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcome100 FIlk Songs Everyone Should KnowThere are many, many filk songs so where should you start? We'll sing our way through one man's list of 100 songs every filker should have in their repertoire. Lyrics provided. Come to sing, come to listen, come to learn.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcomeSong Circle: Things That Go Up and DownIn honor of our fan guest of honor. Songs about elevators and other things that go up and down.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcomeSong Circle: Fantastic AnimalsA song circle inspired by the fantastic animals often found in our artist guest of honor's work. Come to share your music or come to listen to the pictures others paint with their songs.
FilkParticipatory SessionWelcomeSong Circle: Magic and MayhemA song circle inspired by our writer guest of honor. Bring your musical tales of magic and mayhem. Musicians and listeners equally welcome.
GamingGameWelcomeOpen GamingUnscheduled gaming. Sweet!
GamingGameWelcome24-hour Open GamingUnscheduled gaming. Way cool!
GamingGameWelcomeOpen GamingUnscheduled gaming. Awesome!
GamingGameWelcome24-Hour Open Gaming24-hour unscheduled gaming. Magnificent!
GamingGameWelcomeBlood Bowl Open GamingFantasy football mayhem -- orcs and elves and whatnot take to the pitch for a bloody, bruising and fun-filled miniatures boardgame. Learn the game or just brush up on the new rules. Players who learn the game at the open gaming are welcome to join in the ArisiaBowl tournament running all day Sunday.
GamingPanelWelcomeRPG 101...What are role-playing games? How do you find good people to game with? How do you become a good person to game with? Which games are good for beginning gamers? What about intermediate and advanced gamers?
GamingGameWelcomeArisia 2008 Blood Bowl TournamentArisiaBowl III 2008 is the third annual Blood Bowl tournament to be held at Arisia. Blood Bowl is a fun, exciting and fast-paced boardgame with painted miniature figures. Orcs, and elves, and spiky balls, oh my! Hear the roar of the crowd! Stomp the opposing team into the ground! Smell the sweet scent of victory. Come take part in the original fantasy football.

ArisiaBowl will be an all-day tournament starting Sunday morning.
GamingGameWelcomeBlood Bowl Open GamingFantasy football mayhem -- orcs and elves and whatnot take to the pitch for a bloody, bruising and fun-filled miniatures boardgame. Learn the game or just brush up on the new rules. Players who learn the game at the open gaming are welcome to join in the ArisiaBowl tournament running all day Sunday.

New players to experts welcome.
GamingPanelWelcomeCharacter & Plot for LARP & RPGHow do LARPs and tabletop roleplaying differ in terms of character development and plot development. What is different, and what is similar in planning the two genres? How can LARP and tabletop be used together to build a greater world?
GamingPanelWelcomeIntro to Board and Card GamesBoard and Card Games have gone through amazing changes over the past few decades. Monopoly is the Model-T of the board game world. New games are faster, better designed, and easier to learn than the old games you grew up with. With hundreds of new games on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. Learn about the great new games that have come out recently, and a few good starting points to get into this great hobby.
GamingGameWelcomeGiant Zendo DemoZendo is a game of inductive logic played with Icehouse pieces. One player - the "Master" - creates a rule and the others - the "Students" - try to figure it out by building structures out of Icehouse pieces and asking the Master whether it satisfies the rule. Come learn how it's played.
GamingPanelWelcomeKingdom of LoathingDo Knob Goblins fear your Moxie? Do you dream of giant bags of unmarked meat? Come talk about this strangely popular online game.
GamingGameNot AllowedVTM: The Price of RedemptionYour elders have told you to represent them at an auction in Boston. You have been told that it contains several items from a recent Egyptian dig. You have traveled far and with your invitation in hand you arrive at the hotel where the auction is to be held. Strangely enough you realize that you know several of the other vampires gathering there.
GamingPanelWelcomeTales from the RPG SlushpileThe counterpart to the literary track panel -- bad ideas and suggestions, with some discussion of what RPG editors are looking for.
GamingPanelWelcomeThe Future of VideogamingWhat are the hot trends in videogames now? What *will* they be in 5 years, or ten? How does advancing technology affect what we can accomplish in videogaming?
GamingPanelWelcomeThe Fairer Gamer - Women and GamingGaming used to be thought of as a hobby for smelly geek boys living in their parents' basements. Though the stereotype of a gamer as a guy who can't get a date still persists, what has changed in the last 30 years to bring more women into gaming? What can be done to make it more welcoming to women? This focused is on Tabletop gaming specifically.
GamingPanelWelcomeTossing the Dice - Luck Free GamesNot every game needs to be random. Classics like Go, Chess and Checkers have no random elements besides the players. There even exist RPGs without luck in Amber and Nobilis. Hear what other games are out there for players who want to toss their dice.
GamingPanelWelcomeLet's Be Bad Guys: Role-playing VillainsThe default assumption is to play the heroes, those few fighting against the darkness at overwhelming odds. What if you happen to like the dark? Roleplaying (& GMing) villainous PCs isn't easy. The competition is fiercer. The learning curve is steeper. Can an all-villain PC campaign work long-term or is it better as a one-shot? What are the perks? What are the pitfalls? Come talk and hear about role-playing and refereeing those characters that aren't the nicest ones in the bunch.
GamingPanelWelcomeMorality PlayIn many fantasy campaigns good and evil are clearly defined. But what about role-playing issues where there are shades of gray? What about conflicts that can't be resolved with a sword or basic puzzle-solving? Lumpley Games's "Dogs in the Vineyard" is an example of a RPG that puts characters into moral and ethical binds while they try to remain true to their beliefs and goals.
GamingGameWelcomeHollow Earth Expedition DemoThe year is 1936, the world is in turmoil and great discoveries are being made every day. You may be sitting on the greatest discovery of them all.

Come try this exciting game of pulp adventure, in the style of Indiana Jones and the Mummy. See why Hollow Earth Expedition was nominated for 4 Ennie awards, including best game. "Feeding Nazis to Dinosaurs, since 1936."
GamingGameNot AllowedTraveller table-top RPGAn interstellar adventure where you take part in an expedition to a primitive world to recover lost artifacts.
GamingPanelWelcomeWhat is LARP, and why would I want to do it?You have heard of LARPing. But what is it? What does the acronym stand for? Where do these things happen? Why in the world do people find it fun, and who are these people anyway? What do you mean there are many kinds?

A look into LARP, what it is, how it is done by some folks, where to find LARPs of various kinds.
GamingPanelWelcomeAll I Ever Needed to Know, I Learned From GamingMath, Reading, Science, History, Geography, Strategy, Diplomacy. These are just a few of the things that kids can learn from the right kind of gaming. "Educational" games teach kids, but what about lessons to be learned from "non-educational" games.
GamingPanelWelcomeAdvanced RPGsYou've been playing RPGs for years. Maybe you've run a few. How do you take it to the next level? What does it take to move from dungeon crawls and hack n' slash to in depth character development and interaction? What are the best systems for this, and how can you role play well in any system?
GamingGameWelcomeEvolution MagicA variation of Magic the Gathering that utilizes a common pool of cards from which decks are built from during the course of many games. Stresses flexibility and on-the-fly creativity over simply buying better cards or over-reliance on specific card combos.
GamingGameWelcomeKobolds Ate My BabyThis silly little game can be a pile of fun. Bring your pencil and sense of humor. See adventuring life from the other side of the tracks. Sorry your character is not destined for greatness. There will be horrible deaths. Character creation is quick and you'll get good at it.
GamingGameNot AllowedThe Puritan Solomon Kane vs Cthulhu. Journey to Africa and help the wandering Puritan vanquish evil cultists, vile black magic and a blasphemous abomination. Uses the Savage World of Solomon Kane system.
GamingPanelWelcomeMMORPG War StoriesCome and tell people some of the fun (and not so fun) stories of MMORPG. What are some of the traps that befall gamers (and their relatives)?
GamingGameNot AllowedSalah ad-DinSalah ad-Din is a board game set during the time of the crusades. Each player plays the role of the emir of a middle-eastern city attempting to unify all the cities behind them in an attempt to drive out the crusaders.
GamingParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentDungeon Crawl with RealmsThe Realms, a world where people live by wits and courage, by magic and the sword. Join us in Ballroom B, fighting with a weapon of your own making ($5 extra) or borrowing a weapon from our inventory. Either way, you're in the Realms now and you'll never be quite the same again.

Abbreviated Rules of Combat: Realms uses a lightest touch system. No matter how lightly you are touched, you have to take the shot as a normal blow.

Full details available at the tables outside the Dungeon Crawl.
GamingParticipatory SessionWelcomeGaming w/ Guest of Honor (Fluxx 10th Year!)Fluxx, the card game of ever-changing rules, was released into the wild by Looney Labs (Arisia 2003 Gaming GoH's) in 1997. We will be throwing a 10th anniversary party, with special packs of promo cards, and a dizzying variety of Fluxx formulations. Join members of the Mad Lab Rabbits (including your FPGoH, Eric "Rabbitsaurus" Zuckerman) for this celebration of 10 years of the fan-favorite card game, and other Looney offerings, (Zendo, Treehouse, Aquarius, IceTowers," Chrononauts?)
GamingParticipatory SessionWelcomeNinjas vs Pirates Game DemoA demonstration of the Ninjas vs Pirates card game by the game designers.

Be the stealthy ninja or the roguish pirates and lead your men to victory in the epic battle of Ninja Vs Pirates. A very quick game.
GamingParticipatory SessionWelcomeNinjas vs Pirates Game DemoA demonstration of the Ninjas vs Pirates card game by the game designers.

Be the stealthy ninja or the roguish pirates and lead your men to victory in the epic battle of Ninja Vs Pirates. A very quick game.
GamingParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentDungeon Crawl with RealmsThe Realms, a world where people live by wits and courage, by magic and the sword. Join us in Ballroom B, fighting with a weapon of your own making ($5 extra) or borrowing a weapon from our inventory. Either way, you're in the Realms now and you'll never be quite the same again.

Abbreviated Rules of Combat: Realms uses a lightest touch system. No matter how lightly you are touched, you have to take the shot as a normal blow.

Full details available at the tables outside the Dungeon Crawl.
GamingGameWelcomeGreedquestGreed is good and there's treasure to be won, so what are you waiting for? Race into the dungeon to grab The Hoard. Then, all you have to do is reverse direction to get out, but everyone else is standing between you and the exit!
GamingGameNot AllowedSpace Pirate Amazon Ninja CatgirlLife is good when you're a Space Pirate Amazon Ninja Catgirl. Enjoy a life of larceny and mayhem as you embark on one caper after another. Defeat every challenge the galaxy throws at you. Pick up toys (and the occasional Poolboy), grab more loot than anyone else, and watch your tail because the other catgirls want what you got.
GamingGameWelcomeCow Poker card gameTwo to four players become ranchers, rustling each others' cattle and hiring away each others' cowpokes. Recruit the wacky characters into your ranch for points and bonuses, and collect them in tricks from the roundups and shootouts. Once all the cards are taken, make poker hands to score additional points. Every card can be used at least two different ways, so there's strategy as well as luck.
GamingGameWelcomeSJ Games TournamentPlay three games, Earn points based on your placing in those games. Person with the highest points at the end of the tournament wins.

The games are:
The Good, The Bad, and The Munchkin
NinjaBurger
Greedquest
GamingGameWelcomeCollateral DamageAn anime based board game, you play a gang boss trying to take over Neo Japan, using typical characters from romantic comedy anime to form your gang.

You win fights to gain notoriety to take over the cities. However, in this game, your gang members can fall in love, at which point they they ignore you and try to follow their own path.
GamingGameWelcomeChez Geek card gameTake a look at the wackier side of life in a college dorm.
GamingGameWelcomeMunchkin Brawl All the madness. All the mayhem. All the wanton destruction you could imagine.

This features every card from every deck ever released for the game to date and uses Epic Rules.
GamingGameWelcomeIlluminati card gameThe phone company is controlled by creatures from outer space. The Congressional Wives have taken over the Pentagon. And the Boy Sprouts are cashing in their secret Swiss bank account to smash the IRS.

Players compete to grab powerful groups and increase their wealth and power. No ploy is too devious, no strategem too low, as you scheme your way to victory.
GamingGameWelcomeNinjaBurger You are a ninja working for NinjaBurger. Your mission is to deliver hot & tasy NinjaBurgers to your customers. Do well and you will gain honor and become the restaurant manager. Do poorly and you must answer to your ancestors!
GamingGameWelcomeCollateral Damage In this anime based board game, you are a gang boss trying to take over Neo Japan and your gang consists of typical characters from romantic comedy anime.

Win fights to gain notoriety to take over the cities. However, your gang members can fall in love, which makes them harder to control and can lead to all kinds of damage to the cities.
GamingGameWelcomeSpace Pirate Amazon Ninja CatgirlLife is good when you're a Space Pirate Amazon Ninja Catgirl. Enjoy a life of larceny and mayhem as you embark on one caper after another. Defeat every challenge the galaxy throws at you. Pick up toys (and the occasional Poolboy), grab more loot than anyone else, and watch your tail because the other catgirls want what you've got.
GamingGameWelcomeGreedquestGreed is good and there's treasure to be won, so what are you waiting for? Race to the bottom of the dungeon to grab The Hoard. Now, all you have to do is reverse direction and leave, but everyone else is between you and the exit.
GamingGameWelcomeCollateral Damage In this anime based board game, you are a gang boss trying to take over Neo Japan and your gang is made up of typical characters from romantic comedy anime.

Win fights to gain notoriety to take over cities. However, your gang members can fall in love, which means they start ignoring you, making it harder for you to control them and also leading to the cities taking more damage.
GamingGameNot AllowedClue Impaired - LARPClue, Impaired" is a sick, twisted, evil parody of the 1985 film Clue ... and a wide variety of other fantasy, science fiction, and superhero titles. Players should be ready to have their childhood dragged down into the muck. Warning: this game is deliberately offensive.
GamingGameNot Allowed...For Art's Sake" - LARP... For Art's Sake" is a drama in one act on the topics of love, rebellion, honesty and self-expression. It is a "real world, serious issues" game, and actors must be willing to deal with high volumes of angst, rage, and guilt; they should be ready for anything. 18+ only.
GamingGameNot AllowedVTM: The Price of RedemptionA dig was recently conducted in Egypt and a treasure trove of kindred artifacts and lore was uncovered. It has been brought out of egypt and is now being auctioned in boston. Vampires have arrived from all across the country to bid on these items.

This is a game of gothic horror. Each player will be provided with a character, a background and a list of goals. No experience is necessary to play.
GamingGameWelcomeSalah ad-DinSalah ad-Din is a board game set during the time of the crusades. Each player plays the role of the emir of a middle-eastern city attempting to unify all the cities behind them in an attempt to drive out the crusaders.
GamingGameWelcomeBattle for Cynon Refinery: CAV Demo Try out Reaper Miniature's fast-paced sci-fi wargame! Take control of a CAV (Combat Assault Vehicle) and slug it out with opposing factions.

CAV is a fast-moving combined arms battle game which utilizes Reaper's RAGE system, which accounts for damage taken by your units without bogging down the game with record-keeping.
GamingGameWelcomeBattle for Cynon Refinery: CAV Demo Try out Reaper Miniature's fast-paced sci-fi wargame! Take control of a CAV (Combat Assault Vehicle) and slug it out with opposing factions.

CAV is a fast-moving combined arms battle game which utilizes Reaper's RAGE system, which accounts for damage taken by your units without bogging down the game with record-keeping.
GamingGameWelcomeEvolution MagicUsing a variation of Magic the Gathering that seeks utilizes a common pool of cards from which decks are built from during the course of many games. Stresses flexibility and on-the-fly creativity over simply buying better cards or over reliance on specific card combos.
GamingGameWelcomeNecessary Evil: A hero is subornedWhen all the super heroes of the world are blown to kingdom come by an army of invading aliens who will save the day? Evil... The only forces left to take on the alien menace are the crafty and self serving super villains!
GamingGameWelcomeNecessary Evil: A hero is subornedWhen all the super heroes of the world are blown to kingdom come by an army of invading aliens who will save the day? Evil... The only forces left to take on the alien menace are the crafty and self serving super villains!
GamingGameWelcomeFuzion: TCSThis game is a play-test of a new plug in for the Fuzion games system. The players will be playing Space Rangers taking down the criminals plying the starlanes of deep space through boarding actions, and house to house searches.

Players will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement to play.
GamingGameWelcomeFuzion: TCSThis game is a play-test of a new plug-in for the Fuzion games system. The players will be playing Space Rangers taking down the criminals plying the starlanes of deep space through boarding actions, and house to house searches.

Participants will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement to play.
GamingGameOnly w/ ParentWelcome to Sunnyvale - LARPAlleged Entertainment presents "Welcome to Sunnyvale," a short, light LARP that takes place in Sunnyvale Retirement Home. There are creepy old men, hot young nurses, and even creepy old men hitting on hot young nurses!

Bad memories, bad vision, and lots of crazy. "Lots of crazy what?" I'm old! I can use the word crazy any way I want!
GamingGameNot Allowed10 Bad LARPs: Remix! - LARPAlleged Entertainment presents "10 Bad LARPs: Remix!", a compilation of the best (or worst) moments from "10 Bad LARPs in 100 Bad Minutes," "10 Bad LARPs: The B-Sides," and "4 Bad LARPs in 40 Bad Minutes.

WARNING: This is an adult game. It contains offensive themes, blatant sexuality, violence, racism, sexism, ageism, and pretty much any other "ism" that offends people. It's all in the spirit of lighthearted fun, though.
I do not knowParticipatory SessionWelcomeWalk the labyrinth!Come find your center in our 30'x30' Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth.

A tool for walking meditation, use it to find a little peace during the excitement of Arisia.
I do not knowParticipatory SessionNot AllowedHeinlein Society Blood DriveGive the Gift of Life at Arisia!

The fifth Arisia blood drive will be held on Saturday, 10 - 4. Please consider donating. To set an appointment, go to the Heinlein Society table, find a Naughty Nurse or email blood-drive@arisia.org (pending an email reply.) Walk-ins welcome! We try to pace the timing of donors to allow the MGH staff to deliver on their expectation of one half hour per donor from beginning to end. Questions? Contact us by email or at the Heinlein Society table.

Thank you!
I do not knowParticipatory SessionWelcomeWalk the Labyrinth!Come find your center in our 30'x30' Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth.

A tool for walking meditation, use it to find a little peace during the excitement of Arisia.
I do not knowParticipatory SessionWelcomeWalk the Labyrinth!Come find your center in our 30'x30' Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth.

A tool for walking meditation, use it to find a little peace during the excitement of Arisia.
I do not knowParticipatory SessionWelcomeSummit Mt. Arisia!How many steps does it take to get to the top? Take part in the official Arisia stair climb! Use as much of the hour as you need to get yourself from the first to the 16th floor, and when you reach the summit, receive a ribbon proclaiming your achievement. No climbing gear or prior mountaineering experience required.

(Meet in the stairwell at the far end of the Programming hallways on the first floor. Look for the signs.)
I do not knowParticipatory SessionWelcomeIntro to JugglingNever thrown a ball in your life? Think juggling two balls is impressive? Or are you still working on a shaky 3-ball cascade? Stop by and learn the basics, or if you can already juggle, learn a few new tricks. All necessary equipment will be provided.
I do not knowParticipatory SessionWelcomeOpen JugglingStop by and practice your juggling, contact juggling, diabolo, poi, or other manipulation art. Swap tricks, learn techniques, practice passing, or just hang out and watch. Came to the intro to juggling class? Keep practicing and learn some more. Missed the intro class?

Learn at open juggling. Extra balls will be available, and some other loaner equipment, but bring your own if you can.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeIRON HACK!If one writer is good, half a dozen is better, right? Join us for Iron Hack! Each author will write a piece of the story, and then hand it off to the next. Of course, our writers will all leave off at nice easy points for the next one, right?
LiteratureParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentCecilia Tan Reading & Circlet Press PartyCome celebrate the launch of "Best Fantastic Erotica," the book of the winning stories from Circlet Press' first ever "best story" contest.

Cecilia Tan and other contributors will read selections of hot erotic sf/fantasy and then host a party. Copies will be available for autographing. Circlet Press is the world's only publisher specializing in erotic science fiction and fantasy.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeF=Fandom, P=Politics, V= Vendetta Does "V for Vendetta" strike a chord with us as the US Government appears to coming dangerously close to turning into a totalitarian theocracy? What about "Judge Dredd," "Logan's Run," or "Aeon Flux"? What happens when self-righteous fanatics have the big guns and the legitimate power? Do we cower under the authoritarian rule for "our own good," or do we stand tall and say "no more?"
LiteraturePanelOnly w/ ParentThe Appeal of EvilExplore the appeal of Drusilla, delve into the dungeons of Slytherin ? Why is Maleficent so magnificent? Why did we want more of snarky Spike? Evil is supposed to be dark and forbidding. Why is it so damned hot?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeThe Renaissance Man of the 21st CenturyLazarus Long's list of necessary human skills included building a house and butchering a hog; the Talmud requires a father to teach his child to swim. Despite the increasing specialization of our society, some hands-on skills are still necessary. Should we bring them back, or is education in the 21st century really based on other things?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeCity BuildingFrom Ankh-Morpork to Ambergris, well-crafted cities are central to

the genre's most successful SF worlds. What goes into creating a believable city and its culture? What aspects of the urban experience are universal? How can a city affect the surrounding suburban areas, national politics and identity, scientific and artistic development, and everyday life? The panelists may collaborate with the audience on sketching out plans for a new city, time permitting.
LiteraturePanelOnly w/ ParentGhost Stories Whether or not you believe that they are real or fake, you have to admit they make for some very interesting storytelling. What do we expect from ghost stories: a scare, a lesson, a sense of another world? Why do these stories attract our attention, and is their an overlap in the audiences for "real" and fictional ghosts?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeSexy or SexistWhat is the difference between sexy and sexist. Is there a real line in the sand, or is it up to each of us to decide.
LiteratureParticipatory SessionWelcomeHarry Potter: Movies vs. BooksDoes knowing how the book series ends change our anticipation for the last two films? Are there actually fans of the movie series who haven't read the books? (No spoilers from book six or seven permitted at this panel. Go to the "Deathly Hallows" panel to talk about the end of the book series.)
LiteraturePanelWelcomeScience Fiction about "Touchy" SubjectsSF these days is full of the moral dilemmas that the general public shrinks from. Why is science fiction good at talking about things people don't want to address? Does SF deal with such matters directly or metaphorically (i.e., coded in the language of the genre)? Are those aliens really aliens or are they standing in for someone else?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeSteampunk vs. CyberpunkWe've gone from nihilistic tech-heavy cyberpunk to more light-hearted, ingenious steampunk. Is steampunk's growing popularity because we're coming to terms with the fact that we're not getting the future we expected?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeSecrets of the IlluminatiRemembering Robert Anton Wilson and the golden days of the geeks. Illuminati's popularization fnord brought us everything from Steve Jackson Games titles to words of questionable meaning. Discuss the Illuminati and it's mythos fnord and what it means to you.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeThe Best Science Fiction You Never Heard ofMore and more you find new books in the general fiction section of bookstores that are clearly science fiction, but fans rarely know about them. Two books that come to mind are "Specimen Days" by Michael Cunningham and "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro. Likewise, the best seller "Smilla's Sense of Snow" by Peter Hoeg has clear science fiction elements. What other examples are out there?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeUnderground!Discussion of the underground as a setting for stories. Who and what's underground -- tunnels, abandoned buildings, subways, homeless populations, raves, etc. Historic abandoned cities beneath the modern ones.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeSet Phasers to "Stun"Why is a stun weapon a good thing for fiction, particularly series or episodic fiction? Consider also fictional "stun" settings v. real less-than-lethal weapons. People are killed all the time by "non-lethal" weapons. How does the label "non-lethal" affect the wielder's attitude?
LiteraturePresentationWelcomeOdyssey Writing Workshop PresentationDirector Jeanne Cavelos and several graduates of the program describe Odyssey, an intensive six-week workshop for writers of SF/F/H held each summer at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, NH. Odyssey is an internationally respected program with guests that have included George R. R. Martin, Dan Simmons, Elizabeth Hand, Harlan Ellison, and Jane Yolen. The pros and cons of various types of writing workshops--local, genre, Internet, college, and residential--are also discussed.

LiteraturePanelWelcomeWriters' Workshops & Critique GroupsParticipating in a writers' workshop or critique group can be like navigating a minefield. How can you tell whether a group will provide useful feedback on your work? What are the best types of groups to join? What are the danger signs of groups to avoid? How can you keep your group on track? What are the advantages of the different types of groups--local, genre, Internet, college, and residential?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeRetro-futurismThe future isn't what it used to be." Fond memories of futures that used to be used in SF, and whether any of them can be used again.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeParents in SF and FantasyCharacters frequently appear to have none, and they often aren't ones themselves. What pitfalls make parents and parenthood so rare in fiction? What uses do they serve in the stories where they appear?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeRipping off History for Fun and ProfitHow do writers draw on historical settings, societies, and events for fiction? Are stories better if set in a real setting, or would they be better on their own?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeSF Mysteries: Laughs, Blood, and TechnomurderCrimes picked apart, stabbed, strangled, and otherwise discussed by perpetrators of the subgenre science fiction mysteries.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeMyth and Folklore in FantasyHow do writers use myth in their stories? What are the most common myth cycles drawn from? Has traditional folklore been run out of town by urban legends? Why is the appeal of these stories so strong after millennia?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeHeat Between the Sheets: Writing/Selling EroticaFinding markets and Calls for Submission; what editors want (or have seen far too often); general submissions protocol; erotica in speculative fiction.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeRetelling FairytalesFolk and fairytales offer some of the riches sources for story telling. How have people adapted them into novels and films? What are great sources of these tales? Why do they resonate so with readers?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeVampires in 20th Century FictionFrom Dracula to Interview with the Vampire to Buffy we have seen major changes in our perceptions of Vampires. In this panel we'll be discussing the evolving role of Vampire as monster to sophisticate and how culture and society may have affected those roles. Are they evil, are they misunderstood, or are they a bit of both?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeCritiquing that CountsWithout effective critique, improvement is impossible, but sometimes our ego gets in the way. How can we critique without offending, and how can we receive advice with grace?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeNazism in SFBy invoking Godwin's Law, we mark the end of the con-versation noting the frequent appearances of Nazis in SF. The Iron Dream" comes to mind as a SF novel specifically confronting Hitler and the Nazis. There are also multiple Star Trek episodes as well. If we broaden it to include all Totalitarianism", both historic, and fictional," there are many others such as that 80's TV classic "V". Our simple question: Why?
LiteraturePanelWelcomePublishing 101So, you're a writer who's starting to think about trying to get a short story or a novel published, but you know nothing about the SF/Fantasy/Horror publishing industry. We'll tell you how the industry works, show you how to avoid scams, and give you pointers on how to find appropriate markets for your work.",,
LiteraturePanelWelcomeSurprise Mini-story Writing ChallengeWriters are given a story element, then must write a short story in fifteen minutes based on that story element.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeGhosts and Vampires and Werewolves, Oh My!An exploration of current trends in paranormal romance. The panel discusses which trends they like, which trends they hate, and which trends might be the next big thing. What are the best reads currently available?
LiteratureParticipatory SessionWelcomeCharacter Creation WorkshopHow to create, and differentiate solid characters that will appeal to readers. What to use, what to leave out, and how to keep track of it. We'll work with you over the course of two hours to develop and flesh out those rough ideas that are rattling around in your head.
LiteraturePanelOnly w/ ParentWriting Sex MagicMany cultures and mythologies recognize the power of sex and sexuality as a force of transformation, for the giving (or stealing) of energies, and, of course, for creation. This panel will discuss the uses of sexuality as a magical catalyst in fiction: what is compelling, what is implausible, and what is just plain smut.
LiteraturePanelWelcome100 Years of Heinlein: A PrimerR.A. Heinlein was one of the most influential science fiction authors of all time. But where do you start if you are new to fandom? Which books were his best? And which can you safely skip until you start running out of the good stuff?
LiteraturePanelWelcomeReal and Fake Religion in SF/FantasyPeople who couldn't tell Adam from Absalom can give you detailed analyses of the beliefs of Hobbits or Bajorans. Real world religions might pop in "The Dybbuk" or "The Exorcist" but often writers have trouble acknowledging religion at all. How is religion depicted in SF/fantasy books, movies and TV shows? Do writers respect the religions they create more than real ones? Which written or media depictions of religion have been most favorable? Most critical? Most realistic?",,
LiteraturePanelWelcomeTrend? What Trend?Led by Laura Anne Gilman, on writing what you love when it also happens to be popular.
LiteraturePanelWelcomeCriss-crossing genres with Laura Anne GilmanIt's a fantasy, with romance, and a corpse, and no vampires, and a space ship! How to blend, meld, and when to leave it in the blender.

Led by Laura Anne Gilman, author guest of honor",,
LiteraturePanelWelcomeAutograph Session with Laura Anne GilmanMeet our author guest of honor and bring your item to be autographed. (Number of items signed will be determined at con),,
LiteratureReadingWelcomeGrant Carrington ReadingA reading by Gran Carrington of his own work.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeNina Harper ReadingA reading by Nina Harper from her upcoming book Succubus in the City.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeGordon Linzner ReadingGordon Linzner reading one or two of his short stories.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeLaura Anne Gilman ReadingA reading by our Guest of Honor
LiteratureReadingWelcomeWalter Hunt ReadingA reading by Walter Hunt, Arisia '09 Guest of Honor
LiteratureReadingWelcomeDr. Geoffrey A. Landis ReadingA reading by Dr. Landis
LiteratureReadingWelcomeRosleyians ReadingA reading by the Rosleyians Writing Group.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeJennifer Williams ReadingA reading by Jennifer Williams, 2008 Pi-Con Guest of Awesome
LiteratureReadingWelcomeLawrence Schoen ReadingA reading by Lawrence Schoen
LiteratureReadingWelcomeClayton McNally ReadingA reading by Clayton McNally
LiteratureReadingWelcomeSara M. Harvey ReadingA reading by Sara Harvey, 2007 Pi-Con Guest of Awesome.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeHildy Silverman ReadingA reading by Hildy Silverman from a short-story horror anthology.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeMary Turzillo ReadingReading from Dragon Soup, a collaborative work with Marge Simon.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeAline Boucher Kaplan ReadingReading of a short story that combines adventure, science fiction and ghost story -- on Mount Everest.
LiteratureReadingWelcomeRobert J. Sawyer - ReadingNew work read by Hugo winner Robert J. Sawyer.
MediaPanelWelcomeDVDs Killed the TV SeriesNow shows that didn't even finish a season are being released on DVD rather than being rerun. Will this trend kill syndication rights and all chance for a TV show to gain an audience, or will fan purchases of DVDs convince networks to bring canceled TV shows back? DVD saved the Family Guy but killed Serenity. What made the difference?
MediaPanelWelcomeThe Movie Year in ReviewOur annual look back at the year in SF, horror, and fantasy film. Our panel of experts will cover every theatrical release of 2007. Find out which ones are worth catching up on. Note: time for audience participation is reserved for the end of our panel's high speed review.
MediaPresentationWelcomeA New Red Shift Radio Drama with PMRP!Red Shift, Interplanetary Do-Gooder in "Havoc Over Holowood": It's Go Time again! The Post-Meridian Radio Players bring back Red Shift and his companions in another live, original radio drama, which both parodies and pays homage to the pulp sci-fi serials of the 1930s and 40s. Join Red, Lumpy, Dr. Alberts and Penny Parker as they try to save a beloved space celebrity from his worst nightmare: angry fans with atomic weaponry!
MediaPanelWelcomeThere's No Star Trek! And No Buffy!What should fans be watching on TV these days? Battlestar Galactica? Heroes? Jericho? The 4400? What are the hot shows and how can you catch up if you haven't been watching? Will any of these shows have the impact on fandom of Trek, Babylon 5, X Files, Firefly or Buffy?
MediaPresentationWelcomeSecond Shift Live Radio DramaSecond Shift, the Parsec award-nominated, slice-of-life comedy/epic fantasy-adventure audio drama serial, returns to Arisia to perform an original, live episode guaranteed to delight both new listeners and fans alike! Learn more about the show at secondshiftpodcast.com.
MediaPanelWelcomeModern SF&F Radio Drama in New EnglandJoin the producers of several New England-based audio theater projects in a discussion of their work and of the medium's viability for sci-fi, fantasy, and horror storytelling. The panel will include the producers of 'Red Shift', 'The Fantastic Fate of Frederick Farnsworth the Fifth', 'Second Shift' and others.
MediaParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentThe Goblin BallWhen did you last visit the Labyrinth? Jareth, the Goblin King, invites you to his grand ball. The evening will have romantic waltzes, easy pattern dances and a few moments of goblin chaos.

Dances will be taught on the spot, so you need not know them in advance.
MediaPanelWelcomeCylons and ReligionAs machines Cylons didn't have a religion, what they had was a Philosophy of Monotheism. Being mechanical, with computers for brains, they had a set of rules/programming to follow. Once they took human form, they acquired human doubts and questions.
MediaParticipatory SessionWelcomeWouldn't You Like to Be a Superhero?New shows like "Heroes," "The 4400," and "Painkiller Jane" show us that it's not always pleasant. Why has this become a popular idea? Is it that we like imagining what powers we'd get? Or is it saying something darker about losing our control of the world?
MediaPanelWelcomeThe Living DeadForty years after George Romero gave us "Night of the Living Dead," his zombies still walk among us in remakes, new films from Romero himself, and astonishing recent movies from others ranging from "Shaun of the Dead" to "28 Weeks Later." Why is this SF/horror subgenre so enduring? What are its classics and which are merely the walking dead?
MediaPanelWelcomeScience on the Big ScreenMovies are rife with faulty science. Who gets it right? Who gets it hilariously wrong? Is it ever reasonable to gloss over science for the purpose of plot? Does too much science get in the way of plot?
MediaPanelWelcomeSave the Cheerleader, Save the Genre?"Heroes" is the first network SF/F show that's connected with the mainstream in years. What does its success mean for the future of genre TV? Has success gone to its head? What's the future of "Heroes" and what does it tell us about genre TV today?
MediaPanelOnly w/ ParentFuture of the World's Oldest ProfessionGigolo Joe, holobrothels and companions, Oh my! As technology rolls on, human drives remain much the same. How does SF deal with human drives and evolving morality and technology?
MediaPanelWelcome10 Years of StarGateA discussion and farewell to StarGate SG1 -- how did it affect SF television. Will Stargate:Atlantis have similar long legs? What of other SciFi series like Eureka, Flash Gordon, Painkiller Jane, etc.
MediaPanelWelcomeThe Doctor Is InHow do Doctors Nine and Ten compare with the previous eight? This is NOT your mama's Doctor Who.
MediaPanelWelcomeSF TELEVISION '07What were the best SF programs on TV in 2007? What were the worst?

What trends could be seen? Which programs were true science fiction and which were Hollywood's version ("sci-fi")? Which political trends could be seen? Is the best genre stuff on cable or do the networks still take chances?
MediaPanelWelcomeFirefly: The Series that Got AwayWhat made "Firefly" work? Why do we love it and why didn't the suits get it? What now? Should new episodes go direct-to-DVD? How does "Serenity" fit? Is Joss Whedon too good for network TV or has he let past success carry him away?
MediaPanelWelcomeHacking in SFThe presentation of hacking in movies is often woefully incorrect and cliche ridden. Often in literature it is not much better. At a time when information security is increasingly important, is there a responsibility to enlighten people or at least not misinform them? This panel will examine common but inaccurate hacking cliches and discuss why Hollywood can't do better.
MediaPanelWelcomeThe Rogues GalleryDarth Vader, Captain Jack Sparrow and Dracula... the list goes on. What is it about villains that sticks with us even after the movie is over? Do we feel envious because they can get away with things we can't? Is an antagonist's struggle more meaningful or emotionally compelling than that of the protagonist? Is it the belief that they can be redeemed in some way? Come discuss your favorite villains with others and find out what makes them tick.",
MediaPanelWelcomeJoss Whedon is our Master!!!!Yes, we love Joss, why do we love Joss. This will be a open discussion about the appeal of the Whedonverse, his great characters, and well...his great shows",
MediaPanelWelcomeNon-Genre Films that Fans LoveThere's nothing fantastic about _Memento_ but it somehow feels like science fiction. What other realist movies are especially attractive to fans of SF and fantasy? What are the qualities that make them feel like genre?,
MediaPanelWelcomeThe Writers' Strike and FandomThe Writers' Strike shut down Hollywood, and just when Joss Whedon was about to begin a new show! What does (did?) the strike mean for fandom TV favorites like Heroes and BSG? How long will it last (or is it already over by the con?) and what are they fighting over, anyway?",
MediaPanelWelcomeRocky Horror: People still do that?The Rocky Horror Picture Show remains a late night movie house staple, despite it's age and obvious deficiencies. If it is so bad, why do people go week after week? If it actually has redeeming qualities, why does everyone insist it is so bad?",
MediaPanelWelcomeDEBATE: Star Wars Vs. Star Trek: Looking DeeperThis panel is one of the new debate panels at Arisia. It is built around the question of which series had a more profound impact on society at large and fannish society in particular. As with all such debates, the question is unanswerable, but it gives us a wonderful way to deeply explore a very interesting question.",
MediaPresentationNot AllowedRocky Horror Picture Show w/TeseracteThe Teseracte Players and their special guests will treat you to a unique blend of theatre, humour and outright fun at the Late Night Science Fiction Picture Show!",
MediaPanelWelcomeEric in the Elevator" Show Origins & Past TalesThe Origin Story of Eric in the Elevator"! Eric was a mild-mannered fan until he was bitten by a radioactive elevator + no", that's not how it happened! Join Lord 'Vator himself and cast/crew members from the Elevator Talk Show's first two formative Seasons (at least one cameraperson," and at least one Cue Card Chick) as they recount stories about the early years and the amazing set of coincidences that enabled such an unlikely animal as EitE to become a SFBay fannish tradition.
MediaParticipatory SessionWelcomeEric in the Elevator" Season7.5 Filming SessionYour 15 minutes of make-believe fame: "Eric in the Elevator" films at Arisia, and you are the celebrity that our FPGoH will chat with next! Join us in the lobby and be interviewed in our fan-built elevator set! Maybe you'll discover yourself to be on a book tour; on the other hand, you could turn out to be something completely unexpected! Two chairs, one potted plant, no script!",
MediaParticipatory SessionWelcomeEric "in the Elevator" Season7.5 Filming SessionYour 15 minutes of make-believe fame: "Eric in the Elevator" films at Arisia, and you are the celebrity that our FPGoH will chat with next! Join us in the lobby and be interviewed in our fan-built elevator set! Maybe you'll discover yourself to be on a book tour; on the other hand, you could turn out to be something completely unexpected! Two chairs, one potted plant, no script!",
MediaParticipatory SessionWelcomeBuffy the Vampire Slayer:Once More, With FeelingA Family-Friendly Interactive Musical hosted by The Teseracte Players. You will sing, you will dance, you will have a good time.",
MediaPresentationNot AllowedEric in the ElevatorFeatured FPGoH media presentation! Fandom's favorite Elevator Talk Show, Eric in the Elevator, has its Arisia premiere screening; hilarity ensues. Footage from Seasons 1-6 (BayCon 2001-2006 + including some bicoastal faces) of the unique semi-improv comedy project. Not kid-safe.
MediaPanelWelcomeTrek TravelDo you build your vacations around conventions to get your Trek fix? This panel offers some interesting alternative Trek choices. Join us as we explore Trek TV and movie filming locations, the town of Vulcan, Kirk's Birthplace, graveyards, Universities and more. Come share your ideas and experiences, and bring travel questions for our well-traveled panelists. Cool giveaways and prizes!",
MediaPanelWelcomeWhose Next Star Trek Line Is It Anyway?Come play our version of The Singing Bee - without the singing. We'll act out famous Star Trek scenes from the various series and films, but leave out key words or phrases which you have to fill in. A pretty girl or two will be presenting prizes, and your emcee promises to provide loads of laughs. Whether you join in or just watch the fun unfold, you could win a prize or have a tribble thrust upon you!",
MediaPanelWelcomeThe Voyages Continue -- Fan StyleThe latest wave of fan-made "Star Trek" films rival the quality of some TV shows. What's available? What's coming? And how will the new J.J. Abrahms "Star Trek" movie affect these productions? Join in the discussion and tell us about your favorite Trek fan-made productions.",
MediaPanelWelcomeStar Trek: Remastered, for better or worse?Spielberg and Lucas took lots of heat for tampering with released works. Has the team behind "Star Trek Remastered" done any better? There are lots of opinions on this one. Hear what our panelists have to say, then share your opinion."
MediaPanelWelcomeThe 411 on Star Trek 11The latest news and rumors about the next Star Trek film along with reviews of the cast selection and anything else leaked by the time this panel is scheduled. Spoiler Warning! If you don't want to know then stay away...
MediaParticipatory SessionNot AllowedEric "in the Elevator" Season7.5 Filming SessionYour 15 minutes of make-believe fame: "Eric in the Elevator" films at Arisia, and you are the celebrity that our FPGoH will chat with next! Join us in the lobby and be interviewed in our fan-built elevator set! Maybe you'll discover yourself to be on a book tour; on the other hand, you could turn out to be something completely unexpected! Two chairs, one potted plant, no script!",
PiratesPanelOnly w/ ParentThe Sex Life of PiratesWhile their on-shore lechery was legendary, there has been some speculation that some pirate crew members paired up and acted as married couples -- including sex. There is also speculation that some crew members were secretly women (beyond Ann Bonny and Mary Reid). How much sex was really happening below decks in the pirate heyday?",
PiratesPanelWelcomeThe Dread Pirate RobertsFrom "The Princess Bride", to "Rugrats", and even "Pirates of the Caribbean" someone, somewhere brings up "The Dread Pirate Roberts". What made him so special, so dreadful. Who was he and why is he such a popular touchstone for writers?
SciencePanelWelcomeIs the singularity really around the corner?Singularity: a point in history where things change so dramatically that we cannot predict what will come after. Computer capacity exceeding human brain capacity. The end of cheap energy. Many potential singularities loom on the horizon. What will become of us?
SciencePresentationWelcomeThe Colder Side of Global Warming?Michael Crichton's incredibly brilliant (science) fiction novel State of Fear" was unusually prescient, but perhaps not quite in the way that Crichton intended. In "The Colder Side of Global Warming?" presentation,< you will see some neat slides and video clips and walk away with a solid understanding of the factual complexity of Global Warming. See a bit more at http://www.colderside.com .
ScienceParticipatory SessionOnly w/ ParentThe Blood DebateWhy donate blood, tissue, eggs, sperm, organs? Why not sell? What is the current state of the science and the law, and what is expected in the near and long term? Are the laws of supply and demand applicable? Examines some good SF explorations of these topics, such as Niven's Known Space series, Spinrad's "Bug Jack Barron" and Cook's "Coma." By request, this panel will include advice for at-con blood donors -- manage your donation so you have plenty of energy for the con.
SciencePanelWelcomeWill 3D Printing Change the World?This winter Desktop Factory is signing up early adopters for its $5,000 3D printer. It's a major price drop (from $20,000) and it may be the beginning of the emergence of a new technology for the home. What will it do to the economy? To costuming? To ...?
SciencePanelWelcomeBack Into Space -- Who's Paying the Bill?Google is offering a prize to the first private company to create a moon rover, and several companies are competing for space tourism. Russia wants to go to the moon, and George Bush wants us to go to Mars. Is The Astronaut Farmer or huge government programs the shape of things to come?
SciencePanelWelcomeThe Future of CitiesGrowing seemingly beyond their ability to sustain, is there a future for mega-cities like Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Mexico City? What about smaller cities? Their budgets are stretched to the point of snapping, too. What can be done to save cities?
SciencePanelWelcomeIntellectual Property IssuesIntellectual property issues have gone from obscure legal trivia to become the concern of every person in America in the last few years. Students and grannies are being sued for filesharing. Where is IP law going and what effect will it have on creativity?,
SciencePanelWelcomeHomesteading in SpaceAs we reach out to the stars and explore the vast expanses of space between us and our neighbors, we will soon find that we need a place to stay when we arrive out there. Discuss concepts for making a home away from Mother Earth, such as biospheres, terraforming, and more.
SciencePanelWelcomePossible and Impossible in PhysicsWhat could an advanced civilization accomplish, given the laws of physics as we understand them today, but no engineering constraints? FTL? Time travel? Immortality? Arbitrarily fast computation? This panels is about what we think is possible, not what it would mean for society.
SciencePanelWelcomeBoondoggles we knew and lovedLet's look back at things that "seemed like a good idea at the time" but flopped, fizzled or just plain never got off the ground. Controlled nuclear fusion has been 30 years away for the past 50 years. Plans to build personal helicopters and auto-planes date back to the 1930s and 1940s. Remember the Picturephone and the dot-bombs? This panel will look back, chuckle, and discuss what went wrong.
SciencePanelWelcomePanel In the PoolWhat would life be like on an entirely aqueous planet? Could intelligent life evolve? What about space faring intelligence? Come discuss such questions in our own aqueous environment of the hotel pool. Swimsuits required!,
SciencePanelWelcomeLatest on Eco-FriendlinessThere's lots of information on how to help the environment, some good, some bad. The panel separates the fads from the practical.
SciencePanelWelcomeAsk a geekIs there something you'd really like to know? The panelists will take questions from the audience and answer them. 100% accuracy not guaranteed.
SciencePanelWelcomeThe Great Ethanol BustAlternative fuels, bio-sustainability, and general ignorance about energy budgets, efficiencies, and economics. Examples: ethanol, algae, windfarms...
SciencePanelWelcomeGlobal Warming Fact or FictionWhat is global warming? Why should we be concerned about it? How do we know it's not just a plot by Al Gore to sell his book and movie? Is the scientific community reaching a consensus that global warming is real? What can individuals do to make a difference?
SMOFingPanelWelcomeThe Care and Feeding of GophersWhether you are growing your con from a good idea or trying to ensure the longevity of your 8,000 member behemoth, gophers are a SMOF's greatest asset. Share tips and tales with our attendees on how to create and keep convention volunteers, and how to grow those volunteers into a staff team that will keep your convention going strong year after year.
SMOFingPanelWelcomeRunning Cons: Are You Out Of Your Mind?What sort of people get involved in running science fiction conventions, and what do they get out of it? Come hear speakers talk about how, and why, they got involved. Don't worry, you won't have to volunteer!
SMOFingMeetingWelcomePi-Con MeetingThe staff of Pi-Con, the science fiction convention in West Springfield, MA in August, is having a general meeting. All are welcome to come and help out or just see what a real life convention meeting looks like.
SMOFingMeetingWelcomeGripe Session ITell us what's going wrong -- early in the con when we might be able to fix a problem on the fly. (We don't mind hearing about what's going well either.)
SMOFingMeetingWelcomeGripe Session IIFeedback for the staff about the convention so far.
SMOFingMeetingWelcomeArisia Corporate MeetingAn open house of a meeting of Arisia Inc, the organization that helps the con committee do its job every year. Non-members welcome (and welcome to join us).
SMOFingParticipatory SessionWelcomeGripe Session IIITell us what you really thought.
AdultPanelOnly w/ ParentHome Depot in the BedroomHome improvement stores sell rope, chains, bolts, lumber -- all this useful stuff. What creative uses can you put it to around the house? Hmmm... We'll give examples, tips and tricks, and general design principles. No children admitted.
AdultPanelOnly w/ ParentScening and CatharsisMany people think of BDSM a simply a way to have a good time, but for some it's a way to learn about themselves and their partner, and even to explore feelings and ideas that they might not be able to explore anywhere else.
AdultPanelOnly w/ ParentYour Kink is OkayNo matter how outlandish a person's proclivities are, there are still things that they will find freaky about other people. Why is it that many who engage in one unusual behavior look down on another? We'll discuss various activities and maybe discover that "those people" aren't quite as freaky as we might have thought before.
AdultPresentationOnly w/ ParentBDSM for DummiesSo you've heard about this BDSM thing, and you think maybe it's interesting, but being suspended by your toes and tickled by midgets is a bit much for you. How can you get into it without getting over your head? More importantly, what must you do to stay safe while experimenting and exploring your own limits? We'll go over a few do's, and more importantly, don'ts of trying BDSM.

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