Friday 3:00 PM

Open Gaming — 9hr — Thomas Paine AB

Unscheduled gaming. Sweet! James Pinkerton


Friday 4:00 PM

Trigun, Eps. 1–4 — 2hr — Haym Solomon

Vash is a nice guy, but everyone wants to kill him. An enigma of a man with a coat full of bullet holes, he's widely feared because of the destruction left in his wake. And he's also highly valued for the price on his head. But he's no easy man to kill. Of course, that doesn't stop people from trying. What's his mission? Where's he from? This volume may have the answers to those questions, and more. See what you've been missing in the video, visit Vash in true black and white coolness. Mary McConnell Dumas

Rocky Jones—Space Ranger — 30min — Molly Pitcher

Rocky Jones, Vena Ray, and ten-year-old Bobby cruise the galaxy in their space ship in this typical television space opera. The episode we are running, Pirates of Prah involves space piracy, hijacking, and everything else a kid in the fifties would want to see in a television show. 30 min, In 35mm


Friday 4:30 PM

Space Sentinels—Space Giants — 30min — Molly Pitcher

Hal Sutherland's action animation show involve three Greek gods transplanted into the future where they do good and battle evil. We're showing an episode called Space Giants in which they battle evil giants. Everything is cut and dried and the good guys always win, and that's the way it should be. 30 min, In 16mm


Friday 5:00 PM

Letterboxing — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Learn about letterboxing, and create your own stamp and letterboxing notebook. Various areas of the convention will have self-service letterboxes. Try to visit them all during the convention!

Alternative Card Games — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Munchkin, Fluxx, Apples to Apples, and more! Mitchell Morris (m), Michael Bonet

Play with Clay — 2hr — Fast Track 3

We'll make our own play dough (flour, salt, water), then build stuff out of it. Dawn Albright

Heave Away — 10min — Molly Pitcher

This short film on the decommissioning of a spacecraft is set to music by Helva Peters. 16mm, 6 min, Color by RGB/DuArt

D&D ARMIES—tourney organizational meeting — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

Interested in helping test out a new system of quickly staging mass battles in the D&D system? Come and help with this developing system. This is the organizational meeting to build the armies and explain the rules. T. Christopher Davis

Changeling: the Lost—table top game — 3hr — Thomas Paine AB

"Watching Storms" Winter has fallen on Greentown, IL and something powerful within the Hedge is stirring. Will the "Chances Are" motley survive the coming storm? Or will they be swept away on the winds of terror? Anthony Medeiros

Our Man Flint — 5:10 PM, 1hr 50min — Molly Pitcher

James Coburn plays secret agent Derek Flint in this marvelous spoof of James Bond films. Chasing eco-terrorists while surrounded by teams of beautiful women and improbable gadgets, he saves the world in the second reel and then saves the world again in the fourth. If anything, it's interesting to watch how Austin Powers seems like a pale and crude imitation of Flint. 1 hr. 48 min, In 35mm


Friday 5:30 PM

Space Pirate Captain Herlock, Legend Returns — 2hr — Haym Solomon

Tadashi enjoyed living like a punk on the Planet of the Rubbish Heap, until he came home to find his father dead and possessed corpses standing over his body. As they attack the fearless Captain Herlock, the last Space Pirate, saves Tadashi's life and says "If you want to become a real man, board my ship." Seizing the opportunity to avenge his father, Tadashi joins the crew of the space battleship Arcadia as it pursues their mysterious enemy in an attempt to rescue the promised land—Earth!! Mary McConnell Dumas


Friday 6:00 PM

Braiding voices: Singing rounds & related forms — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Take simple threads of music and weave them into a fabric of harmony: Rounds, guazas, and maybe a quodlibet or two. This session is dedicated to the memory of Lois Mangan, Filk Hall Of Fame inductee for her efforts in organizing, recruiting, and promoting the music of fandom, and (among her other interests) enthusiastic rounds filker. Ellen Kranzer, Joseph Kesselman (m)

Book Signing—Jeffrey A. Carver — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing with Jeffrey A. Carver. Jeffrey A. Carver

Hieroglyphics 201 — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Go beyond creating your name using ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. Roxanne Reddington-Wilde

Today's Fiction, Tomorrow's Fashion — 1hr — Paul Revere A

In laboratories, there are now woven nanotubule fibers stronger than steel with 1/60th the weight. There are mimetic solids that reshape themselves when exposed to certain conditions. What will the clothing and accessories of tomorrow look like? Will iPhones be woven into gloves? Will tomorrow's band t-shirts show streaming video concert footage? Vonnie Carts-Powell (m), Sarah Smith, Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman

Healthy Eating: A Primer — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Eating healthy is not always easy, and at a weekend long con it can be nearly impossible. Discuss ways to make smart choices, stay healthy and not have to give up Doritos completely. Alex Newman, Amy Chused, Dr. James Prego (m)

Design Track 1: Design a World — 1hr — Room 204

Part 1 of a 4-part, linked creative series of panels: The audience designs a world. See Parts 2, 3, and 4 to see where we end up. Attendance at all 4 panels encouraged but not required. Walter H. Hunt, Michael McAfee, David R. Seeley, Peter Prellwitz

We Want It On DVD! — 1hr — William Dawes A

There are so many cool genre shows and movies that aren't available on shiny disks—yet. Some of them may NEVER be available on DVD. Why can you buy The Love Boat but not Max Headroom? Tony Finan, James Zavaglia, Peter Maranci, Adam Lipkin (m)

Button, then Zip? A History of Fashion — 1hr — William Dawes B

Why do men's coats button on one side and women's jacket the other side? Why did denim get invented? What shoe fashion was ultimately stopped only by a Papal decree? How fashion, clothing styles and traditions came about. Nightwing Whitehead, Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Sara M. Harvey (m)


Friday 7:00 PM

Blood Will Tell: The Criminal Gene? — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

What if criminal/anti-social behavior is hereditary? There are papers which theorize that genes may play a role in an individual's ability to assess risk, which in turn affects the propensity for criminal behavior. Britain is looking into a policy of getting DNA samples from children that show "early warning signs of criminal behavior". What are the possible outcomes of this and similar screening policies? Eric M. Van, David Larochelle, Michael Kabongo, Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman (m)

NESFA Songbook Sing-a-long — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Group singing from the NESFA Hymnals, a collection of filk songs set 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. Ellen Kranzer (m), Erwin S. Strauss, Mark A. Mandel, Joseph Kesselman

Cool Comets — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Let's look at how NASA is exploring comets then see what they are made of by building our own. Steven Hammond

Pipe Cleaner Constructs — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Design and make a mythical figure from pipe cleaners. Elizabeth McCoy (m), Benjamin Newman

Ouran High School Host Club — 1hr — Haym Solomon

An institution of extravagance and prestige where learning is secondary to luxury, and dressing up. Bookish Haruhi can't afford to slack, being on a scholarship and out of place among the moneyed. Haruhi is suddenly in debt to the Host Club after breaking an expensive vase in their lair. The only way to pay for the damage? Haruhi will work as a Host! Come see a very funny comedy with a lot of beautiful costuming. (Hey, it had to fit into the Arisia'09 theme.)

The Com (The Comedie-Francaise) — 1hr — Molly Pitcher

The Comedie-Francaise has been performing live theatre since 1680, and since that time has been on the forefront of theatrical technology. This is a backstage tour of the famous French theatre, with visits to the flyloft, the costume shop, and the carpentry shop. It includes some beautiful images of theatrical productions, and is a must-see for anyone interested in costuming or stagecraft. Shown by special request. 16mm, 60 min.

Con Safety for Teens — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Cons are mostly fun and safe, but occasionally, there are creeps. We'll show you how to deal with them, and who you should go to for help. KT Pinto

Copyright: Theory & Practice Today &Tomorrow — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Assume that copyright in some form is necessary. What are the options for defending it in the digital age? Not on copyright itself, but on the intents (protective to actively hostile) and results of using DRM. There's Blu-Ray, HD DVD, iTunes, the various companies writing programs for computer games. Consider software vs. hardware DRM and how that affects people legitimately wanting backup copies. Jeffrey A. Carver, Richard Stallman, Alan Wexelblat (m), Thomas Traina, Ian Cooper Rose

Saturnalia: Circus Dance Extravaganza — 4hr — President's AB

Ladies and Gentlemen, come one come all to the first public Circus spin jam of Arisia! Come spin and tumble and dance. Hosted by the magnificent Corvus Woolf of the Seattle Tech Spinners hailing all the way from Seattle, Washington and Lindsay Barbieri of Circus Folk Unite from Amherst, Massachusetts—this event will be a fantastic way to dance it up and connect with circus folk from both coasts. Dress in Circus Costume… if you want.

Hands-On Science for Teens — 1hr — Room 201

aka Hands-On Science 201—a more advanced workshop than Hands-On Science for Kids. Learn some really bizarre things about chemistry and physics, and play with dry ice and liquid nitrogen! Shira Lipkin (m), Elayna Jade Smolowitz

Storytelling Workshop — 1hr — Room 204

Learn the dying art of storytelling! Michael McAfee

The Ferret who would be King — 3hr — Thomas Paine AB

Come join your friends Ferret, Fox, Horse, Wolf, Raven Bear and many more as you play awakened animals. With the destruction of the lich, The battle against the undead is finally over, but who will rebuild the human town and rule the people. Michael Dlott

CAV demo—table top game — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

Try out Reaper's fast-paced miniature mecha wargame, CAV! CAV is easy to learn, but still supports a broad range of tactics and army compositions, making it fast, fun, and highly versatile. No experience or materials required. Douglas Schaub

Addams Family Vs. The Munsters — 1hr — William Dawes A

You thought the 2008 election was tough? Here's a real "take no prisoners" debate: which '60s monster sitcom did it best? Does Gomez have more "experience" than Herman? Who better to hex the glass ceiling, Morticia or Lily? And with whom would you rather dig up a corpse, Grandpa or Uncle Fester? Don Sakers (m), James Zavaglia, Ian Randal Strock, Abigail Weiner,

What If They'd Been Invented Earlier? — 1hr — William Dawes B

Steam-driven mechanical computers, telegraphs in the Roman Empire, computers in ancient Greece, lasers in the 19th century. What inventions had all of the building blocks but weren't invented centuries early? How would the world have been different with them? Stephen R. Wilk (m), Howard G. Beatman, Jeff Hecht, Walter H. Hunt


Friday 7:30 PM

Cosplay Costume Prom Photo Booth — 3hr — Prefunction D

Cosplay Costume Prom Photo Booth is set-up to take photos of all our partier's in costume. You can take one home right away for a small fee, or you can download on line later.


Friday 8:00 PM

Broad Universe Reading — 1hr 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Broad Universe is an international organization of women and men dedicated to celebrating and promoting the work of women writers of science fiction, fantasy and horror. Come hear readings from members of this group including Jennifer Pelland, Phoebe Wray, Sherry Thompson, Elaine Isaak and Susan Hamilton. Elaine Isaak (m), Phoebe Wray, KT Pinto, Jennifer Pelland, Sara M. Harvey, Inanna Arthen, Trisha Wooldridge, Karen Meng

Masquerade Basics from A to Z — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

For first-time entrants or even more experienced costumers, we will cover what to expect from registration through rehearsals, from stage ninjas through stage lights, from the Green Room and Den Moms to the MC and the judges. jan howard finder, Martin Gear (m), Toni Lay, Ricky Dick, Emily Skrodzki

Which is Better: the Book or the Movie? — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Which Shrek was better—the original picture book or the DreamWorks films? Is Frodo better on screen or on the page? Come discuss your favorites. Don Sakers (m), Daniel M. Kimmel

Amazing Watercolors — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Wow! Discover the amazing combinations of colors when you sprinkle salt over your masterpiece. Liz Cademy Pfeffer

Iron Man — 2hr 30min — Haym Solomon

Iron Man, plus extended scenes. Sporting gold-titanium alloy with hot cherry highlights this Superhero will dazzle the town. 150 minutes PG-13

Clutch Cargo short episode — 10min — Molly Pitcher

A curious product of the early 1960s, this is an animated children's television show employing Synchro-Vox, a process in which live action lips were rotoscoped onto still drawings. The plotlines and the artwork both owed a lot to the pulp SF styles of the day and were quite advanced for a kid's show of that era. 6 min, in 16mm B&W

Poly 101: Responsible Non-monogamy — 1hr — Paul Revere A

This panel is designed for someone new to poly, who is either interested in exploring polyamorous relationships, or just wants to find out what it's all about and, because we won't be able to answer all your questions in an hour, where to go for further resources. Jonathan Woodward, Micah Schneider, Sarah Sloane (m), Michelle Driscoll, Rayne Hellion

Super-Mega-Epic Crossovers — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Civil War. Crisis on Some Kind of Earth. Apocalypses seem to abound in the major comic book companies, touching upon all of their stories. Once, this was seen as a way to shake things up; now, it seems like the stakes must keep rising to even get our attention. What makes a mega-crossover worthwhile, and how many armageddae is too many? James A. Wolf, Mark "Justin" Waks, Michael A. Burstein, Ed Fuqua (m)

Cosplay Costume Prom — 3hr — President's CD

Missed your High School Prom? Hated your High School Prom? Come make new or better memories. Cosplay your way through the night and win prizes being someone you are not. New England Fan Experience sponsors Prom Photos to be taken at the dance, and printed immediately. Jill Eastlake, Walter H. Hunt, Ricky Dick, Karen Dick, Mary McConnell Dumas (m), David R. Seeley

Marketing Your Work — 1hr — Room 201

Step one: Make your particular kind of art, knowing there are people who want to buy it. Step three: Profit. This panel talks about step two, finding those people and getting your work in front of them. Alex Newman (m), Mercy E. Van Vlack, David R. Seeley

Making a Living in a Creative Field — 1hr — Room 204

How do you make your creative pursuits put bread and butter on the table? Is it "selling out" to modify your creations to fit a customer's needs? Where are the emerging markets for creative work? Elizabeth Kelly, Scott Lefton, , Evonne Heyning (m)

Science Fiction is a Girl Thing Too! — 1hr — William Dawes A

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. We add in the mix graphic novels and manga that are science fiction for girls. Charles E. Gannon, Catherine Asaro, Vonnie Carts-Powell, Elizabeth OMalley, Adrianne Brennan (m)

What is This Thing Called Filk? (Filk 101) — 1hr — William Dawes B

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. Ellen Kranzer, Hillary Sherwood, Jacob Sommer (m), Erwin S. Strauss, Heather Munn

It's All About Love — 8:10 PM, 1hr 50min — Molly Pitcher

Just your ordinary romantic drama about star-crossed lovers. Oh, except that it takes place in a dystopian future where climate change is turning the world into a frozen wasteland. The Village Voice calls it "rapturous and inexplicable in equal measure." 1 hr. 45 min, in 35mm Cinemascope


Friday 9:00 PM

Fandom in a world without Net Neutrality — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Net Neutrality (the idea that all Internet traffic is handled equally, and no filters or other restrictions to slow certain types of Internet traffic) is under attack, but why should you care? John Sundman, A. Joseph Ross (m), Richard Stallman, James B. Van Bokkelen, Robert Hafner

How to Make Friends — 1hr — Fast Track 1

How do you make—and keep—friends? How do you keep a long-distance friendship going? Dr. James Prego

The Modern Burlesque Revival — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Burlesque is enjoying a modern-day renaissance. With troops popping up all over the place, what is driving this new interest in an old art form? Rebecca L. Kletnieks, Alex Newman (m), Elizabeth Kelly, Abigail Weiner, Lauren Stern

Uncivil War — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Are you for or against the registration act? Do you stand with Iron Man or Captain America? Come join the debate! James A. Wolf, Israel Peskowitz, Michael A. Burstein (m), Jaime Garmendia

The Witching Time of Night—VtM LARP — 6hr — Room 201

The mysterious death of an elder Ventrue threw the city into upheaval. Now six months later the Tremere have filled the power void nicely. Everything was starting to return to normal till rumors that an Archon was coming to town. Now the city's Kindred Race to get their houses in order and make sure their enemies look bad. A game of politics and gothic horror. Michael Dlott

Joss Whedon is our Master! — 1hr — Room 204

An open discussion about the appeal of the Whedonverse. The Marvelous MERV, Misty Pendragon (m), Cynthia A. Shettle, Melissa Honig, Eric M. Van

Pandemic—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Four diseases have broken out in the world and it is up to a team of specialists in various fields to find cures for these diseases before mankind is wiped out. A truly cooperative game where you all win or you all lose. Brennan Martin

First Impressions: Presenting in Con Masquerades — 1hr — William Dawes A

Why is being on stage so scary? How to show off your costume at its best,stage movement, ideas for presentations, basics of choreography; beginning presentation in 1 minute or less,no pressure though jan howard finder, Martin Gear, Toni Lay (m), Carol Salemi, Jamila Sisco

The Art of Kroft — 1hr — William Dawes B

With a "Land of the Lost" movie due out this summer, is this the time to reconsider the worlds of Sid and Marty Kroft? Is the world ready for a new version of the Banana Splits? H. R. Pufnstuf? Is this more crazed '70s nostalgia or the next big thing? James Zavaglia, Solomon Davidoff, Peter Maranci, (m)


Friday 9:30 PM

Reading—Charles E Gannon — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Charles E Gannon will be reading a selection from his body of work. Charles E. Gannon


Friday 10:00 PM

Reading—Jennifer Williams — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Jennifer will be reading a selection from her short stories. Jennifer Williams

Nerdus Americanus: The American Nerd — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

From McFly to McLovin, nerds of all kinds are an undeniable force in America. What makes someone a nerd? How has the image of the nerd changed over the years, and does the popular image reflect reality? Thomas F. Restivo, Amy Chused, David Larochelle (m), Dr. James Prego

Rocky Horror: People Still Do That? — 1hr — Paul Revere A

The Rocky Horror Picture Show remains a late night movie house staple, despite its age and obvious deficiencies. If it's so bad, why do people go week after week? If it actually has redeeming qualities, why does everyone insist it's so bad? What do you think about the proposed remake? Solomon Davidoff, Lauren Stern, Melissa Gavazzi (m)

Godzilla at 55 — 1hr — Paul Revere B

It's 55 years since the release of "Gojira," the first "Godzilla" movie in Japan (before they recut it for American audiences and added Raymond Burr). Why does the monster still capture our imagination in spite of often-cheesy sequels and awkward special effects? How do the more recent movies stack up? Is there a little bit of Godzilla in all of us? James A. Wolf, Michael A. Horne (m)

What is Live Action Role Playing? — 1hr — Room 204

How to get involved in a LARP, different kinds of LARPs, and how LARPs are different from tabletop gaming. Anna R. Bradley (m), Stephen R. Balzac

Pandemic—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Four diseases have broken out in the world and it is up to a team of specialists in various fields to find cures for these diseases before mankind is wiped out. A truly cooperative game where you all win or you all lose. Brennan Martin

What Anime is New Now? — 1hr — William Dawes A

This panel is a review and discussion about what nifty series have come out in the last year or two. About each series: What makes it nifty? What are the novel themes that it explores? Does it have particularly good characterization? Is the art and animation better than expected? Michael Toole, Elizabeth OMalley (m), Jamila Sisco

Is It 'Horror' or 'Dark Fantasy'? — 1hr — William Dawes B

Why does the gender of the person making the distinction matter? Are there differences of style, or of content? Is the application of a genre label really important to the reader or just to the marketing department? Lawrence Watt-Evans, KT Pinto, Tim Lieder, Sara M. Harvey


Friday 10:30 PM

Audio Presenation—Michael McAfee — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Michael will be playing portions of his audio theater production, "The Fantastic Fate of Frederick Farnsworth the Fifth". Michael McAfee

Time Quest — 1hr 45min — Haym Solomon

Special Massachusetts Politician's Life is rewoven by a Time Traveler with Bruce Campbell. 94 minutes R


Friday 11:00 PM

Reading—Mark L Van Name — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

He will be reading an excerpt from his upcoming book, Overthrowing Heaven Mark L. Van Name

Filking Into the Night—Open Filking — 8hr — Crispus Attucks

Hear filk in its native environment! Make music happen. Sing! Play! Clap hands! Listen! Join the merriment! No experience necessary.

Silent Film: Metropolis with Live Keyboard — 2hr 15min — Molly Pitcher

This restored version of the silent Fritz Lang classic is considerably longer than the commonly-shown 1927 cut. The image quality is better than you have ever seen and it will be presented with our own Gary McGath at the keyboard and with two short intermissions. 2 hrs, 4 min. In 35mm Gary McGath, Kludge

BDSM for Dummies — 1hr — Paul Revere A

So 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. Lawrence Nelson, Lee Harrington, Micah Schneider, Sarah Sloane (m), Michelle Driscoll

Do What You Love — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Come listen to people who've made a career out of doing what they love. Charles E. Gannon, Vonnie Carts-Powell

Pandemic—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Four diseases have broken out in the world and it is up to a team of specialists in various fields to find cures for these diseases before mankind is wiped out. A truly cooperative game where you all win or you all lose. Brennan Martin


Friday 11:30 PM

Reading—Cecilia Tan — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Cecilia will be reading a selection from her body of work. Cecilia Tan


Saturday 12:00 AM

Drum Circle — 4hr — President's AB

Bring a drum. Borrow a drum. Find a drum. Feel the rhythm and the power with us. Charles Hannum

Rocky Horror Picture Show — 3hr — President's CD

The Rocky Horror Picture Show performed on Stage with the Movie

24-hour Open Gaming — 23hr 59min — Thomas Paine AB

Unscheduled gaming. Way cool!

Pandemic—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Four diseases have broken out in the world and it is up to a team of specialists in various fields to find cures for these diseases before mankind is wiped out. A truly cooperative game where you all win or you all lose. Brennan Martin

The Jacket — 12:15 AM, 2hr — Haym Solomon

From Canada. Adrian Brody is outfitted in the latest time travel ensemble—a canvas straight jacket. 103 minutes R

Barefoot Gen—The Movies 1 & 2 — 2:15 AM, 3hr — Haym Solomon

Hiroshima, August 1945. Gen is a cheerful elementary school student living in Japan during World War II. After years of living with difficult wartime impoverished conditions, Gen and his family have managed to maintain a relatively normal and happy life. All that is about to change when an atomic bomb destroys their city in an instant. Based on the world renowned manga "Barefoot Gen" by Keiji Nakazawa, Barefoot Gen captures the spirit of a nation struggling to redefine itself. Mary McConnell Dumas


Saturday 5:00 AM

Mileninium Actress — 2hr — Haym Solomon

A documentary filmmaker (Shouzou Iizuka) tracks down a legendary actress, Chiyoko Fujiwara (Miyoko Shoji), who disappeared from public life 30 years earlier. Past and present, truth and fiction meld together as the enigmatic actress relates the story of her life. Mary McConnell Dumas


Saturday 7:00 AM

Cartoons and Cereal — 2hr — President's AB

Come watch Saturday Morning Cartoons and eat your favorite cereal. Be a kid, or just a kid again. What a great lazy way to start a Saturday morning.


Saturday 8:00 AM

Hello Kitty Tells Fairy Tales — 1hr — Haym Solomon

Everyone's favorite feline, Hello Kitty, is here with her friends in some of the best stories of all time! Come along and join Kitty, Mimmy, Badtz-Maru, Pochacco, My Melody and Dear Daniel as they bring new versions of old favorites to life. Mary McConnell Dumas


Saturday 9:00 AM

MYCHIP Child ID Project — 4hr — Fast Track 2

The CHIP program is a Child Identification process. 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. Erik J. Meyer-Curley

Hello Kitty Stump Village — 1hr — Haym Solomon

Claymation Hello Kitty and all her friends Mary McConnell Dumas

Beauty and the Beast — 15min — Molly Pitcher

Fred Ladd and Osamu Tesuka's short animated version, a nicely done bit of early Japanese animation.In 16mm, 12 min

Stretch like a Shaolin: Kung-Fu Morning Warm Up — 1hr — President's CD

This is a simple morning stretch and warm-up in a kinder and gentler Shao-lin style. Wear loose clothing and bring a water bottle and a towel to cushion you. Suitable for all ages. No bones will be broken. Bill Yerazunis

Pinocchio in Outer Space — 9:15 AM, 1hr 15min — Molly Pitcher

Written by Fred Ladd and Norm Prescott who later went on to introduce America to Japanese animation, this film was animated in Belgium and involves Pinocchio taking a trip to Mars to stop a giant space whale. Extremely silly, it's the sort of thing you and your kids should be sitting down to watch on Saturday morning. 1 hr. 11 min, In 16mm


Saturday 10:00 AM

Reading—Victoria Janssen — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Victoria Janssen will be reading a selection from her body of work. Victoria Janssen

Iron Man: "Yeah, I Can Fly." — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

This is how it's done! Come discuss the big-screen Iron Man, and marvel at how they got it so right. James T. Henderson Jr (m), Howard G. Beatman, Michael A. Burstein, Hugh Casey, Woodrow Hill

Avatar Fan Club for Kids — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Did you watch "Avatar, the Last Airbender"? What did you think? How would you have solved Ang's problem? Warning; the ending will be revealed! Don Sakers,

Kamikaze Costuming — 2hr — Fast Track 3

Fabrics, Pins, Imagination! Come make your own costume. Then, show off your creation in the Masquerade. Vonnie Carts-Powell, Aimee Yermish, Liz Cademy Pfeffer (m)

Dragon Hunters — 1hr 30min — Haym Solomon

Animation from Luxembourg. Free range sheep supply the wool that helps save a world. 80 minutes PG

Space Activism: Promoting Space Exploration — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Introduction to various organizations promoting space exploration and settlement, followed by discussion of how you can get involved in overcoming barriers to reaching further into space. Thomas A. Amoroso, Bruce Mackenzie (m)

Miniatures in Gaming: An Introduction — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Painted miniatures are used in a variety of table top RPGs and war games. A discussion of getting into miniatures painting them in various genres. Brennan Martin, Alex Feinman, Steven Hammond (m)

Cats: Gods or Demons? — 1hr — Prefunction BC

An examination of cats in SF and fantasy: surely they are more than human, but is that a good thing, or bad? Mercy E. Van Vlack, Charlene Taylor D'Alessio (m)

Higgins Armory Presentation — 3hr — President's AB

The aclaimed Higgins Armory presentation team comes to show their clanging swords and shiny coats of arms, among other things. Broken into 6 one-half hour demonstrations: 10:00 Jedi Lightsaber Techniques of the Sword Masters 10:30 Roman Legionary and Gothic Knight 11:00 German Longsword from the Starhemberg Fechtbuch 11:30 How to Knock a Knight (Out) 12:00 Swordplay through the Ages: The Renaissance 12:30 Massachusetts Bay Colony Militia Pike Drill

Design Track 2: Create a Story — 1hr — Room 201

Part 2 of a 4-part, linked creative series of panels: The second panel is on scenario/story design. The audience, with panel help, develops a story set in the world created in the first seminar. See Part 1 to see where we started, and Parts 3 and 4 for where we end up. Attendance at all 4 panels encouraged but not required. Jeanne Cavelos (m), Walter H. Hunt, David R. Seeley, Peter Prellwitz

Boundaries, Backup, and Buffy — 1hr — Room 204

Let's talk about creating and respecting boundaries, how to back each other up, and how to feel safe at cons and everywhere else. Where would Buffy be without her Scooby Gang? How healthy is Bella's relationship with Edward? And what do you do when you're feeling uncomfortable? (Think fast—there's candy in it for you!) Rachel Sommer, KT Pinto, Shira Lipkin (m)

A Drive in the Woods—table top game — 3hr — Thomas Paine AB

A broker wants you to pick up one of her shipments from the agricultural planet you're on. The trouble is, guerillas have seized the town where the shipment is; you'll need to go there and collect it—without violence, if possible… Benjamin A. Pew

Meet the Freemasons — 1hr — William Dawes A

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that arose in the late 16th to early 17th century. Freemasonry now exists in various forms all over the world, with a membership estimated at around 5 million. They've been referenced in several works of fiction including Umberto Eco's "Foucault's Pendulum" and Robert Anton Wilson's "Illuminatus" trilogy. Come find out about Freemasonry and separate the fact from the fiction in this open meeting to all attendees.


Saturday 10:30 AM

Reading—Greer Gilman — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Greer will be reading from her upcoming novel Cloud & Ashes. Greer Gilman

Roger Ramjet — 15min — Molly Pitcher

Three Roger Ramjet cartoons of extreme silliness. 16mm, 18 min. Kludge

Bamboo Saucer — 10:45 AM, 1hr 45min — Molly Pitcher

This cold-war-era thriller involves a flying saucer hidden in a Red Chinese village and the American and Soviet teams that converge on it and find they have to work together to complete their missions. It's dated today, but it's surprisingly well produced and still holds up very well. 1 hr, 40. min, In 16mm. Color by Eastman LPP process


Saturday 11:00 AM

Reading—Catherynne Valente — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Catherynne will be reading a selection from her body of work. Catherynne Valente

Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" series — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

They're the YA vampire books that everybody's reading. Meyer is well on her way to being the most popular vampire author ever. We'll discuss the phenomenal success of the series and ask, has she crafted the perfect vampire for the new millennium? Or are her sparkly ball-playing vampires just ridiculous? Sarah Smith, Jennifer Williams, Ed Fuqua (m), Lauren Stern

Book Signing—Adrienne Brennan — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Adrienne Brennan Adrianne Brennan

Book Signing—Elizabeth Black — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing session with Elizabeth Black. Elizabeth Black

What Would My Super Power Be? (for Kids) — 1hr — Fast Track 1

If I were to choose, what special powers would I have? Rachel Sommer (m), Peter Prellwitz

I'm Just Wild about Kirby — 1hr — Paul Revere A

A discussion of the work of Jack Kirby, one of the most influential, recognizable, and prolific artists in American comic books. He was the co-creator of such enduring characters and popular culture icons as the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, the Hulk and Captain America. He also created the highly innovative Fourth World series of comics for DC. His style has influenced comic book artists and authors for years, and his imprint upon the field of comics can still be felt to this day. Karl G. Heinemann, Howard G. Beatman, Mario di Giacomo (m), Ken Gale

Miniatures in Gaming: Painting Tips & Techniques — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Panelist discuss their own techniques for miniature painting; exchange tips and tricks with other miniatures enthusiasts. Includes discussion of priming, reducing flash and shading. Brennan Martin, Alex Feinman, Steven Hammond (m)

So This is a Masquerade Greenroom — 1hr — Prefunction BC

What goes on in a greenroom? What is the etiquette of the room? And how about fan photography? jan howard finder, Toni Lay (m)

Masquerade Tech Rehearsal — 3hr — President's CD

Tech Rehearsal for the Masquerade

Misogyny in Comics—One Year Later — 1hr — Room 201

At Arisia 2008, a lively panel addressed the topic of misogyny in comics. It was very necessary, as 2007 had seen dozens of incidents of misogynist writing, artwork, and marketing. A year later, have things gotten any better? This panel will explore positive and negative changes in the comics industry over the last year. Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Adam Lipkin (m), Woodrow Hill, Melissa Gavazzi

Intro to Go—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Go is a strategic two-player board game of ancient Chinese origin, using white and black stones. Come learn how to play, or improve on your skills. There will be several 9x9 grids so that several people can play at one time. Timothy Lewis

Best Movies You've Never Heard Of — 1hr — William Dawes A

Have you ever been raving to your friends about "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" and none of them have a clue what that is? We promise a safe environment to share with others new films that only you know about, and that deserve wider recognition! Misty Pendragon, Lance C. Oszko, Eric M. Van (m), Robert Newton, Sonya Taaffe

"I'll Be Back." — 1hr — William Dawes B

25 years ago, who could have guessed that the star of "The Terminator" would become the governor of California? Having spawned several sequels and a TV series, this jarring image of a bleak future that might yet be averted or changed continues to hold our attention. Why have the "Terminator" films been so influential, and what do they say about the times that produced them? Will Arnold come back again some day? James Zavaglia, John McDaid, Susan Hanniford Crowley (m), Garen Daly


Saturday 11:30 AM

Reading—Daniel P Dern — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

He will be reading his new short-short Dern Grim Children's Bedtime Stories, "intended to be Morally Instructive to the listener and therapeutically cathartic to the reader, and Few Of Which End Well," including "The Girl Who Would Not Go Potty When She Was Told To" "The Boy Who Would Not Brush His Teeth," "The Children Who Ate All Their Halloween Candy Too Soon" "The Girl Who Never Cut Her Hair" and at least one that involves dinosaurs. Daniel P. Dern

Docent Tour with David Seeley — 30min — Charles View Ballroom

Tour the Arisia 2009 Art Show with our Artist Guest of Honor, David Seeley David R. Seeley

Ticket To Space — 1hr 45min — Haym Solomon

French Couture reaches new highs in this orbital comedy. subtitled 89 minutes PG


Saturday 12:00 PM

Reading—James D. Macdonald — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

James D. Macdonald Reading James D. Macdonald

Women in Comics — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Let's discuss strong women in the comics world, from vintage Wonder Woman to Marvel's White Tiger to the post-apocalyptic matriarchy of Y: The Last Man. Who are your favorite kick-ass women in comics? Jonathan Woodward, Martha H. Adams, Mercy E. Van Vlack, Alisa Kwitney Sheckley (m)

Book Signing—Debra Doyle — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Debra Doyle. Debra Doyle

Talk Like A Pirate, Mate — 1hr — Fast Track 1

As it says, talk like a pirate, mate… arrrrrr. Don Sakers, Karl G. Heinemann (m)

No-Sew Costumes — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Costuming bins open, scissors at the ready, what can you come up with? Liz Cademy Pfeffer

Poly 201: Theory and Practice — 1hr — Paul Revere A

You've done the research, been to 3872 Poly 101 panels, and have decided to be poly! Now what? Some questions include: How do I tell your friends and family? Where do you meet poly people (besides cons), and how can you find people whose poly styles are compatible with yours? How can you avoid the pitfalls of the "fresh meat" syndrome? Valerie White, Alan Wexelblat, Bey Woodward, Micah Schneider, Sarah Sloane, Michelle Driscoll (m)

Live Action from Anime — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Death Note the Anime, Death Note the Live Action Movies, Prince of Tennis the Anime, Prince of Tennis the Live Action Movie. So good and soooooo bad. What makes for a good transition from art to live action? Michael Toole, Jennifer Yoo (m)

Historical Accuracy in costuming — 1hr — Prefunction BC

What makes a costume historically authentic? Where and how do you document that? Why go to all that trouble? Hand vs. machine sewing, fabrics and sources. Sara M. Harvey (m), Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman

Realms—boffer weapon demos and practices — 6hr — Prefunction D

The Realms will be holding fighting practice, demonstrations, and tournaments in the outdoor courtyard. The Realms is a LARP group. They use foam-padded weapons to resolve melee combat (sword-fighting) and the game supports a magic system as well (for all manners of wondrous things not possible in real life). Come and learn about this long running LARP community. Participants can borrow weapons or make their own weapons for $5. Rebecca Garbos, Jeremy (Fencer) Sullivan, Andrew V. Disbrow (m), Andy Rumph, Ken Crowley, Becky Baron, Robert Disbrow

Medieval Combat Exhibition — 1hr — President's AB

An unscripted demonstration of Medieval Combat Steven Hirsch

The Changing Face of SF/F Magazines — 1hr — Room 201

SF/F print magazine markets are shrinking, and online magazines are flourishing. What does it all say about the fan's willingness to pay for short fiction? We'll also explore new avenues of getting the stories out there, and how a writer can get paid for short fiction in this changing market. Barry Longyear, Sarah Smith, John Bowker, Hildy Silverman (m)

I Never Expected to See That at a Filk Sing — 1hr — Room 204

Panelists discuss the odder filk performances, whether it was an unusual instrument, a unique style, or just completely unexpected. Solomon Davidoff (m), Heather Munn

Open Press Party for Walter Hunt — 2hr — Room 215

In honor of Walter Hunt's new book "A Song in Stone", come to Room 215 and sample some medieval cuisine and learn more about this wonderful story of finding one's self in the oddest of places. Walter H. Hunt

C.A.V. Tournament - table top gaming — 4hr — Thomas Paine AB

Three rounds and everybody gets to play in all rounds—so even if you're not an expert, come get some experience for next year! 2,500 points using RC08, Shards and War for Sale. Reasonable proxies are allowed. Mil-net optional rules are not in effect. Prize support from Reaper and CAVComCon. Steven Hammond, Douglas Schaub (m)

When Game Groups Go Bad — 1hr — William Dawes A

Chemistry is essential to a good game. How to recognize when a player isn't right for a group, or vice-versa, and what to do about it. Kiralee B. McCauley (m), KT Pinto, David Nurenberg, Jacob Sommer, Bill Pomeroy

Boston Comics Roundtable — 1hr — William Dawes B

The Boston Comics Roundtable is a group of comic creators who meet weekly and talk about the craft, the market and various other aspects of comics. They're recently released the second issue of their self-published anthology "Inbound". If you're an aspiring comics creator yourself or just interested in local resources for independent comic artists, come and meet the BCR at this panel. Cathy Leamy, Jaime Garmendia, Charles Schneeflock Snow (m)


Saturday 12:30 PM

Reading—Gordon Linzner — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Gordon Linzner will be reading a selection from his body of work. Gordon Linzner

SF Films to See Before Transcending this Plane — 1hr — Molly Pitcher

What the essential SF films you MUST see before you're abducted by aliens or reincarnated? What makes them so important? Daniel M. Kimmel, Eric M. Van, Robert Newton, Jeff Warner, Adam Lipkin (m)


Saturday 1:00 PM

Reading—Michael A Burstein — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Michael will be reading his new short story, "I Remember the Future," from his collection of the same name. Michael A. Burstein

Flirt Like a Pro! — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Flirting, like any skill, can be learned and gets better with practice. Our panel of experts are here to help! KT Pinto, Michael McAfee, Jennifer Williams, Sara M. Harvey, Hugh Casey (m)

Book Signing—James D. MacDonald — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing session with James D. MacDonald. James D. Macdonald

Magic Show — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Sleight of Hand, Illusion, and, possibly, making your best friend disappear—come to the Arisia Magic Show! Daniel P. Dern

Convention Feedback I — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Tell 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.) Buzz Harris (m), Richard Kovalcik, Jill Eastlake

Who Watches the Watchmen? — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Is it even possible to compress Watchmen into a single movie? The set photos and video diaries look great, but we'll be waiting with bated breath to see if they actually pull this off. Come and discuss the series that revolutionized comics, and the movie that we're all hoping will capture its magic. James A. Wolf (m), Solomon Davidoff, Alexander S. Kay, Tim Lieder, Jacqueline Kessler

What Do You Mean Last Air Bender Isn't Anime? — 1hr — Prefunction BC

The big debate, is anime only a product of Japan. Can American made anime even really exist? (m), Elizabeth OMalley, Jamila Sisco

Craft Workshops — 1hr — Room 204

Come prepared to make stuff! Liz Cademy Pfeffer

TV Year in Review — 1hr — William Dawes A

Look back at SF, horror and fantasy in 2008 on TV. What were the memorable shows? What are the new ones to watch? Vampires, time travel, super heroes—what's hot and what's not? Misty Pendragon, Nomi S. Burstein, Howard G. Beatman, Hildy Silverman, Randee Dawn

The Plight of the Older Gamer — 1hr — William Dawes B

It was so easy in college. Nothing but time to kill and lots of other gamers on campus. But now that you've got a job and a family, is it possible to still be a roleplayer? Can you be a roleplayer AND have a life as an adult? Kiralee B. McCauley, T. Christopher Davis, Peter Maranci (m), Walter Milliken, Lisa J. Steele

Strings — 1:15 PM, 1hr 30min — Haym Solomon

From Denmark. In an alternate universe, Life is based on other principles. An Epic tale of intrigue, Empire, genocide and romance. 88 minutes PG-13


Saturday 1:30 PM

Reading—Catherine Asaro — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Catherine will be reading a selection from her body of work. Catherine Asaro

Learn a Bit of Karate — 1hr 30min — Fast Track 2

Learn a few basic karate moves. (No hitting allowed.) Genevieve Iseult Eldredge

The Last Battlestar Panel — 1hr — Molly Pitcher

The exact wording of this blurb will have to wait until the last episodes are shown this fall, but generated before the Publications Deadline. I suspect it will have to do with the psychological and philosophical changes of the main characters after their hopes and aspirations regarding the discovery of Earth are crushed.(Tighe crawled into the bottle, Tori joined the Cylons, and Chief went back to his kid before they found Earth. Now what?)] Thomas F. Restivo, John H. Costello, James T. Henderson Jr (m), Jeff Warner, David R. Seeley, Kim Paffenroth


Saturday 2:00 PM

Reading—Stephen R. Wilk — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Stephen will be reading from his non-fiction work "Sons of God" the follow-up to his book "Medusa: Solving the Mystery of the Gorgon" published by Oxford University Press. Stephen R. Wilk

Torchwood—Cutting Edge or Jumping the Shark? — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

With Season Two, over this is one of the world's hottest SF programs. Is it the cutting edge, or did it jump the shark tank with the shocking ending? Samantha Dings, Toni Lay (m), Jennifer Pelland, Robert Hafner

Book Signing—Gordon Linzner — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Gordon Linzner. Gordon Linzner

Book Signing—Don Sakers — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing session with Don Sakers Don Sakers

Magic How-To's — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Learn the basics of illusion and sleight-of-hand. Alex Newman (m), James D. Macdonald

How to defeat a Dalek — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Ever had nightmares of running down long corridors away from Dr. Who's nemesis, praying to find some stairs? This panel will hopefully cure them, as there's interactive construction—while the panel discuss ways to stop the Daleks we build their preventative measures, and then see if they are up to the task The Marvelous MERV

Mask Making — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Masks make your personality, with costumes or not. Susan de Guardiola (m), Benjamin Newman

Barfleet: To Boldly Go Where Others Dare Not… — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Barfleet is a national non-profit organization dedicated to throwing the best darn con after-parties that you've ever seen. Come meet the captain and some of the crew of the local ship, the UBS Shameless and learn what they are all about. Joshua Mintzer, Micah Schneider, Aimee Bouchard, Rayne Hellion (m), Cassie Olewinski

Anime as Art — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Art books have long been published, and now art-style books based on anime and manga characters are being released. Are these art? Or are they art in the way that Disney is art? Michael Toole (m), Timothy J. Tero, John C. Watson, Mary McConnell Dumas, Jennifer Yoo

Keeping the Faith: Changes in Your Comics — 1hr — Prefunction BC

You've seen your favorite character killed, brought back to life, killed again and rebodied into a clone from an alternate history. At what point do you decide enough is enough? Do you keep reading a series that has gone downhill in the hopes that it will get better? What makes you pick up a series that you'd given up on? Daniel P. Dern, A. Joseph Ross (m), Michael A. Burstein, Tim Lieder, Adam Lipkin

Walter H. Hunt GOH Event — 1hr — President's AB

Meet the Arisia Guest of Honor, author Walter H. Hunt Jill Eastlake, Walter H. Hunt (m), Patricia Ann Vandenberg

City Council of Hound's Teeth—LARP — 3hr — Room 201

The Hound's Teeth City Council is meeting tonight, and the whole town is there. Between zombies in the fields, adventurers who want their law-breaking party-member returned, a loose mage's apprentice playing pranks, everyone has a complaint. A horde LARP based on every table-top fantasy city council meeting. John D\\'Agosta, Nat Budin (m)

Personal Finance for Fen — 1hr — Room 204

Making ends meet and fitting in all the expenses you have (or want to have) can be a challenge, but particularly for fans. Paperbacks and DVDs are one thing, but plane tickets to Worldcon and screen-accurate Harry Potter costumes can be quite another. Listen to our panelists give tips on how to do what you want to without going bankrupt. Elaine Isaak, Michael Whitehouse, Hugh Casey (m), Woodrow Hill

Salah Ad-Din: Rise of a Leader—table top game — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

You are the Emir of a middle eastern city during the time of the crusades. You realize that on your own you will be unable to defeat the crusaders, however if you rally all the middle eastern cities behind your banner, you could drive the crusaders out. You must build up your city, extend your influence, and form alliances. Once you have proven yourself as a true leader, you will gain the respect and allegiance of the people of the middle east. Ibrahim Dahlstrom-Hakki

Monty Python Fluxx—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Will you institute the New Rule that encourages outrageous accents? Will you be forced to hold the Knights Who Say "Ni!" Creeper? Or will you use your Resting Parrot and Unladen Swallow to fulfill your Goal? (You know, because Fluxx wasn't silly ENOUGH!!!) Eric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman

Puerto Rico—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Assume the roles of colonial governors on the island of Puerto Rico during the age of Caribbean ascendancy. The aim of the game is to amass victory points, mainly by shipping goods to the Old World or by constructing buildings. Timothy Lewis

They Can be Heroes — 1hr — William Dawes A

Do you want to take Hiro and make him your new geeky best friend? Have you become a "Heroes" addict? What episode hooked you? Has it recovered from its shaky second season? Misty Pendragon, Cynthia A. Shettle, James A. Wolf (m), Terri Osborne, David Nurenberg

Myth and Folklore in Fantasy — 1hr — William Dawes B

How do writers use myth in their stories? What are the most common myth cycles drawn from? How does yesterday's traditional folklore relate to today's urban legends? Why is the appeal of these stories so strong, even after millennia? Roxanne Reddington-Wilde, Debra Doyle, Catherynne Valente, Sonya Taaffe, Trisha Wooldridge (m)


Saturday 2:30 PM

Reading—John Bowker — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

John will be reading a selection from his body of work. John Bowker

NASA Documentaries — 30min — Molly Pitcher

This year we're stacking two of them together, with Stepping Stones To Space, a historical look at rocket propulsion from ancient China to Apollo, followed by \\bf SIR-A, showing the first images off the shuttle imaging radar, a side-looking radar system intended to view the earth's surface. Presented with the assistance of the film archives at Marshall Space Flight Center \\bf 16mm, Approximately 30 minutes

Donkey Xote — 2:45 PM, 1hr 30min — Haym Solomon

From Spain. Animation. Colorful comedy. 85min G


Saturday 3:00 PM

Military Tech and SF: At Odds or Odd Bedfellows? — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Does military thinking influence SF writers? Vice versa? Is it a two way street—or simply a myth? What SF might be influencing strategic thinkers at the Pentagon? Could it be happening now? Charles E. Gannon, James T. Henderson Jr (m), Catherine Asaro, Ken Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Christopher Weuve

Alternative Lifestyles and Fandom — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Alternate lifestyles of all kinds seem to flock together, especially at a con like Arisia. Why is alternative sexuality so common in fandom, and openly talked about, when it is taboo to much of the mainstream world? How do we feel about all this adult discussion and behavior in our conventions? How can Arisia, faced with less programming space than in the past, accommodate such diverse interests without making anyone feel unwelcome? Buzz Harris, Michelle Wexelblat, Solomon Davidoff, Lawrence Nelson, Micah Schneider (m), Eric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman

Book Signing—Barry Longyear — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Barry Longyear.

Book Signing—Keith R. A. DeCandido — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing session with Keith R. A. DeCandido. Keith R. A. DeCandido

Advanced Costuming: Presenting Yourself on Stage — 1hr — Fast Track 1

So you've made a costume. What's the best way to show it off? Should you do more than just walk around the stage? What music should you choose? What about lights? jan howard finder

Children's Filk Concert — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Filk! Sing-a-longs! Bring your voice! Rachel Sommer (m), Benjamin Newman

Costuming with Cardboard and a Glue Gun — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Artist guest of honor Dave Seeley, and his son Griffin, show the basics of putting a costume together with this extremely versatile combination of material and tools. David R. Seeley

Astro-Nut Cartoons — 30min — Molly Pitcher

Astro-Nut is a short green being from outer space who is always trying to help out his friend Oscar. Unfortunately his help is not always very helpful. We'll be showing a sequence of cartoons including Proton Pulsator, Martian Recipe, and whatever else comes to the top of the pile. 16mm. Approximately 30 minutes

The Great Ethanol Bust and Its Alternatives — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Alternative fuels, bio-sustainability, and general ignorance about energy budgets, efficiencies, and economics. Ethanol as a discredited example—what alternatives do we have? Wind? Algae farming? Nuclear? The Marvelous MERV, Thomas Easton (m), James B. Van Bokkelen, John Kraemer, Tom Wysmuller

New & Improved Medications? — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Is newer always better? Recent research has shown that newer SSRI antidepressants, such as Prozac, are no better than older tricyclic agents, such as amitriptyline, at relieving depression—just a lot more expensive. Similarly, newer antidiabetic agents aren't any better than older ones. Why is the medical profession pushing us toward the newer agents? Why are the HMOs pushing back? Thomas A. Amoroso (m), Amy Chused, Dr. James Prego, Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman

Arthur C. Clarke: Author and Visionary — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Arthur Clarke died at the age of 90. Many of his works were seminal in the development of the genre, several of his books are literary masterpieces on their own. He was a giant and the world is poorer for his absence. Let's celebrate his life and work, and spotlight his achievements for those just being introduced to them. Don Sakers, Jeff Hecht, A. Joseph Ross (m)

Summit Mt. Arisia—Saturday — 1hr — Prefunction D

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. (Will run Saturday 3pm and Sunday noon. Meet in the stairwell at the far end of the Programming hallways on the first floor. Look for the signs.) Jude Shabry

The Ephemeral City — 1hr — Room 204

Festivals like Burning Man, Pennsic, and Rainbow Gatherings are huge annual events that bring together thousands of people for a short period, creating entire cities with their own economy and politics. What is the draw of a temporary society? What do these gatherings bring to the participants? How do they challenge "mundane" society? Terry Franklin, Toni Lay, Mark "Justin" Waks (m), Lee Harrington

Intro to Go—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Go is a strategic two-player board game of ancient Chinese origin, using white and black stones. Come learn how to play, or improve on your skills. There will be several 9x9 grids so that several people can play at one time. Timothy Lewis

SRM 03–01: Ready, Set, Gogh—table top game — 3hr — Thomas Paine AB

Shadowrun 4th Edition game—By 2070, life literally imitates art. Some people have a fetish for it and it's your job to see that it's delivered and still breathing. Pre-made characters provided, or make new using normal 400BP creation rules. Jonathan Riedel

Roleplaying Party Genesis Scenarios — 1hr — William Dawes A

Starting your roleplaying campaign off on the right foot is key to a successful game. How to design an "origin story" scenario for your group. Jonathan Woodward, David Nurenberg, T. Christopher Davis, Peter Maranci (m), David C. Kaplowitz

The Big Fear: Genre Fiction as Social Commentary — 1hr — William Dawes B

What does the threat or conflict implicit in a work of fiction say about the society that made it? In the 1940s, books like George Orwell's "1984" and George Stewart's "Earth Abides" are examples of fears of a totalitarian dystopia and the end of civilization respectively. John Brunner's "Stand on Zanzibar" is an example of the fear of overpopulation present in many works of 1970s fiction. What are the cultural boogeymen of today? What will the big fear be 20, 50, 100 years from now? Jeanne Cavelos, Phoebe Wray, Alicia Verlager, Adam Lipkin (m), Catherynne Valente


Saturday 3:30 PM

History of the Automobile — 10min — Molly Pitcher

a short film describing the evolution of transportation in a parallel universe. 16mm, 6 min.

Customs and Immigration — 3:40 PM, 45min — Molly Pitcher

Every year we make a point to run some sort of avant-garde film that stretches people's idea of what a movie should be, and this year we have picked a film by J. Hoberman, the long-standing film critic of the Village Voice. This film combines new and stock footage with a disconcertingly eerie soundtrack to describe a half-dozen risky new ways for visitors to America to go native. 34 min, In 16mm, Color By DuArt


Saturday 4:00 PM

Reading—Debra Doyle — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Debra will be reading a selection from her own works.

GLBT-friendly Comics — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

From the lesbian relationships in Runaways and Janes in Love to Apollo & Midnighter and Ultimate Colossus, mainstream comics are broadening the range of relationships beyond strictly het. We'll discuss the change from using characters' sexuality as sensationalism to simply working it into the storyline the same as you'd do with a hetero relationship. Jonathan Woodward (m), Solomon Davidoff, Elayna Jade Smolowitz

Book Signing—Ian Randal Strock — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Ian Randal Strock. Ian Randal Strock

Book Signing—Elaine Isaak — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing session with Elaine Isaak. Elaine Isaak

How to Write Your Own Stories — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Got a story you're just dying to get out, but you can't quite seem to get it on paper? Or when you do, it just goes everywhere? We'll discuss the basics of writing your own story. Don Sakers (m), Walter H. Hunt, Adrianne Brennan

Astronomical Drawings — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Black paper, oil pastels and your imagination take you into the universe Victoria Lisi, Charlene Taylor D'Alessio

Puppet Making Workshop — 1hr — Fast Track 3

We'll provide the materials; you provide the imagination! Roxanne Reddington-Wilde

Poly 350: Poly Parenting — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Mixing multiple relationships with raising children introduces a host of new complications as well as possibilities. How do you answer questions, schedule your time, and mix parenting styles? Hear several parents share their experiences and their advice. Valerie White, Alan Wexelblat (m), Scott Lefton, Lisa Wood

Kaczynski's Postulate: Freedom vs Technology — 1hr — Paul Revere B

"Thus it is clear that the human race has at best a very limited capacity for solving even straightforward social problems. How then is it going to solve the far more difficult and subtle problem of reconciling freedom with technology? Technology presents clear-cut material advantages, whereas freedom is an abstraction that means different things to different people, and its loss is easily obscured by propaganda and fancy talk." Thomas Easton, John Sundman (m), Martha H. Adams, Richard Stallman, David Larochelle

Virtual Enterprise invade Real world — 1hr — Prefunction BC

You have been in a MMPORG for over a year. You know people make money in world and somehow manage to translate that into their real bank account. This panel will address how. (m), John Bacon, Shava Nerad, Evonne Heyning

"The Fair-ly Odd Parents" Sing-a-Long — 2hr — President's AB

A Sing-Along like the one done for Buffy, but this one will be for the children, and kids at heary. "The Fair-ly Odd Parents" musical will have a pre-learn time, and then a sing-a-long. Jan Dumas

Media Tie-Ins: Dead End Or Foot In The Door — 1hr — Room 204

Panelists discuss the process of writing a media tie-in novel, and its often-negative perception by fans and publishers. Keith R. A. DeCandido (m), Jeanne Cavelos, Terri Osborne, Vonnie Carts-Powell

Agricola—table top game — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

In Agricola, you're a farmer in a wooden shack with your spouse and little else. On a turn, you get to take only two actions, one for you and one for the spouse, from all the possibilities you'll find on a farm: collecting clay, wood, or stone; building fences; and so on. Optimal task and resource management merge with the farming theme to produce a very fun and engrossing gamer game. Plus, there may be animeeples! Brennan Martin

Anime: Then and Now — 1hr — William Dawes A

Animation produced in Japan has exploded into Western markets in the past couple of decades. From kid-friendly to sophisticated mature themes, there's an anime series for you and your family. Come learn the basics about this distinctive style of animation. Mario di Giacomo, Ken Gale, Michael A. Horne, John C. Watson (m), Jamila Sisco

15 Years of Babylon 5 — 1hr — William Dawes B

The show debuted on January 26, 1994 (after showing at Arisia a few days earlier). It's been 15 years… how has B5 changed SF on TV? CGI is now everywhere—B5 pioneered the field. Long-arc storytelling is now almost normal, but 15 years ago a novel for TV was a strange and new concept. James Zavaglia, The Marvelous MERV, Michael A. Burstein (m), Hugh Casey

Fullmetal Alchemist—Episodes 1 and 2 — 4:15 PM, 1hr — Haym Solomon

In two TV Asahi web polls, the anime was voted #1 most popular anime of all time in Japan. It was nominated in six of the eight categories for which it was eligible at the American Anime Awards in February 2007, winning awards in five of them. Reviewers from several media have noted the characters' complex personalities and original designs. Get hooked on on Fullmetal Alchemist here at Arisia, you're view of anime and cartoons will never be the same. Mary McConnell Dumas


Saturday 4:30 PM

Reading—Shira Lipkin — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Shira Lipkin will be reading a selection from her body of work. Shira Lipkin

Docent Tour with David Seeley — 30min — Charles View Ballroom

Tour the Arisia 2009 Art Show with our Artist Guest of Honor, David Seeley. David R. Seeley

Space Sentinels—Space Giants — 30min — Molly Pitcher

Hal Sutherland's action animation show involve three Greek gods transplanted into the future where they do good and battle evil. We're showing an episode called Space Giants in which they battle evil giants. Everything is cut and dried and the good guys always win, and that's the way it should be.30 min, In 16mm


Saturday 5:00 PM

Reading—Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Catt will be doing a reading of her story Guardian Angels. Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein

How Do We Pay For The Future? — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Science fiction has posited a wide range of economic models, from total abundance to mean scarcity, from plutocracy to collectivism. What happens when goods are freely available to all? What happens when long-lasting food rations are worth killing for? What emphasis does the writer need to place on the economy, the technology and the society to tell an intriguing tale? Charles E. Gannon, Ian Randal Strock (m), Karl G. Heinemann, David Larochelle, Hugh Casey

Book Signing—Resa Nelson — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Resa Nelson. Resa Nelson

Hands-On Science for Kids, Take 1 — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Explore 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! Stephen R. Wilk

History of the Automobile — 10min — Molly Pitcher

a short film describing the evolution of transportation in a parallel universe. 16mm, 6 min.

No Capes! Non-superhero Comics — 1hr — Paul Revere A

The majority of comics are hero/superhero based. Is there a place at the table for non-hero drama? If not, why not? Discover new non-hero titles and discuss some of your own favorites with others. Alex Newman, Cathy Leamy, David R. Seeley, Jaime Garmendia, Charles Schneeflock Snow, Melissa Gavazzi (m)

Making Tropes Interesting — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Tropes are devices and conventions that a writer can reasonably rely on as being present in the minds and expectations of the audience. We've all seen them. Aliens that speak English. Alternate universes. A genie in a bottle. How do you put a twist on these tired old devices to make them interesting? Jeanne Cavelos (m), Mary Catelli, Debra Doyle, Barry Longyear, Catherynne Valente, Michael Kabongo

Belly Dancing Show — 1hr — President's AB

Belly Dancing Show Katrina Meyer

Writing Workshop — 1hr — Room 204

Hone your writing skills with friendly pros. Elaine Isaak, Walter H. Hunt (m), Elayna Jade Smolowitz, David J. Manch

Lolita Fashion and Culture 101 — 1hr — William Dawes A

An introduction to this Japanese cosplay trend. What is Lolita? What's the difference between Elegant Gothic Lolita, WaLoli, and Baby Lolita? Where do Lolita designers find inspiration? This panel will cover Lolita fashions and the history and philosophy behind the movement's origin in Japan as well as Lolita culture in America and its differences from the Japanese subculture. Lauren Stern, Julie Vining, Caitlin Ruelle (m), Elizabeth OMalley

Regenerative Theraputics—It kinda grows on you — 1hr — William Dawes B

Latest advances in regenerative therapy from organ replacement to reversing degenerative disease damage. What big breakthroughs have happened, and what's just around the corner? Thomas A. Amoroso, Amy Chused, Sarah Smith, Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman (m)

Repo: the Genetic Opera — 5:10 PM, 1hr 45min — Molly Pitcher

This is a fantasy horror musical about a world in which medical insurance is nonexistent and where if you take out a loan for an organ transplant, you'd better make sure you can pay it. Cindy says, "Take painkillers first." It's silly, it's horrible, it's a musical with real opera singing, Anthony Stewart Head, and Paris Hilton. How can you go wrong? In 35mm, 1 hr. 38 min

Fullmetal Alchemist: Who is Edward Elric? — 5:15 PM, 45min — Haym Solomon

Set in an alternate early 20th century where matter transformation is done through the science of alchemy, Fullmetal Alchemist is the story of two brothers who train to become State Alchemists in order to reclaim what they had once lost. Hiromu Arakawa's long-running manga has been made into an anime series as well as two movies. Come discuss the continuing adventures of Eric and Alphonse on their search for the Philosopher's Stone and their journey toward adulthood. Israel Peskowitz, Jacob Sommer (m)


Saturday 5:30 PM

Reading—Sara M. Harvey — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Sara M. Harvey will be reading a selection from her body of work. Sara M. Harvey


Saturday 6:00 PM

Reading—Don Sakers — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

He will read from his novel A ROSE FROM OLD TERRA. Don Sakers

Trend? What Trend? — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

On writing what you love when it also happens to be popular. Sarah Smith, Victoria Janssen, Sara M. Harvey (m), Alisa Kwitney Sheckley

Poly 250: Is Poly Marriage on the Horizon? — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Gay marriage has been legal in Massachusetts for a couple of years. Opponents said that this would lead us down the "slippery slope" to non-dyadic marriage. But is it really, or was that just a scare tactic? Can polys really hope to say "I do…I do…and me too!" any time soon? Alan Wexelblat, Ian Cooper Rose, Aimee Bouchard (m)

Anime/Video Hell — 2hr — Haym Solomon

"If the battle for the mind of North America will be fought in the video arena—then you've already lost!" Anime/Video Hell is a freeform, late night potpourri of flotsam from the mediascape: found videos, asian game show segments, insane music videos, exotic trailers and found video segments. Michael A. Horne (m), Timothy J. Tero

Fan-subs and Piracy — 1hr — Paul Revere A

In Japan they have been cracking down on piracy and fan subs (fan produced subtitled versions. Some companies have their own channels on YouTube? Some companies have posted advertisements on fansubs rather than insist they be pulled. What is the future the retail of Anime? Mary McConnell Dumas (m), Ken Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Elizabeth OMalley

Women, Sexism, and Fandom — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Panelists discuss the interactions of the depictions of women in SF and the social status of women in fandom and the professional SF world, about how SF and fandom have both challenged and promulgated gender norms. Phoebe Wray (m), Anna R. Bradley, Catherynne Valente, Vikki Rose, Jacqueline Kessler

Mage: The Awakening MET—LARP — 6hr — Room 201

A few years ago the pact that built the power structure for Boston fell and the Free Council was able to gain power. Now a few years later members of the old regime try to upset the balance of Boston and reclaim it's power for Salem. Who will you stand with, the Free Council as they try and make a better city for Mage and Sleeper, or with the powers that be of Salem as they try once again to put the city on the hill under their thumb once more. Nick Jabour (m), Nikki Gingerelli

Podcasting: A How-to For Anyone with a Voice — 1hr — Room 204

Maybe you are already a podcast subscriber; maybe you have never even heard the term before. Maybe you are ready to jump in and make your own, or maybe you do not even know why someone would want to listen to a podcast. A panel about podcasts and videocasts, and their production, promotion, and purpose. From the technology to the terminology, the opportunities and the realities, come to this panel with questions and curiosity. James Turner, Mitchell Morris, Michael Bonet (m)

Salah Ad-Din: Rise of a Leader—table top game — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

You are the Emir of a middle eastern city during the time of the crusades. You realize that on your own you will be unable to defeat the crusaders, however if you rally all the middle eastern cities behind your banner, you could drive the crusaders out. You must build up your city, extend your influence, and form alliances. Once you have proven yourself as a true leader, you will gain the respect and allegiance of the people of the middle east. Ibrahim Dahlstrom-Hakki

Machines Augmenting Mankind: Prosthetics in SF — 1hr — William Dawes A

What's possible given our knowledge of material science and cybernetics? Has SF changed social attitudes toward prosthetics both inside and outside fandom? Do you think there will come a time when prosthetics are considered normal—or even preferred? Wil Howitt, Dr. James Prego, Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman (m)

Beloved Ghosts vs. Evil Dead — 1hr — William Dawes B

The dead have become horror's answer to SF's aliens: convenient blanks onto which to project our hopes and our fears. Are the dearly departed helpful ghosts, or are they evil, flesh-eating corpses who prey on the living? What does our media say about how our society looks at death? Tony Finan, James D. Macdonald, (m), Kim Paffenroth, Trisha Wooldridge


Saturday 6:30 PM

Reading—Jennifer Pelland — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Jennifer Pelland will be reading "Minya's Astral Angels," which is going to be published in the Solaris Book of New Science Fiction, Volume 3. Jennifer Pelland


Saturday 7:00 PM

Fantastic Future Interface Devices — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

What can we do to input information quickly, efficiently, reliably and safely? Are neural input, voice input, or eyeflick sensors reasonable input devices? Come talk about what alternatives to keyboards exist and should exist. Wil Howitt (m), Mitchell Morris, Dr. James Prego, Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman

Book Publicity 101 — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

How do authors, publishers and publicists arouse interest in new books and up-and-coming authors? Between authors who do their own publicity, professional publicists for big presses and imprints, and small press publishers, widely differing techniques get used: flyers, magazine ads, book signings, conference appearances, blogs and more. What works for whom? Jeffrey A. Carver, Sara M. Harvey, Inanna Arthen (m), Adrianne Brennan

Rhapsody of Steel — 30min — Molly Pitcher

Former Disney animator John Sutherland's 1959 classic details the history of steel from the first meteor to strike the earth to the first manned rocket to leave it. Time Magazine called Sutherland a "slick entertainer and painless pedagogue." Our print is in excellent condition with beautiful color. in 35mm Technicolor Dye-Transfer, 23 min.

Retelling Fairytales — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Folk 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? Rebecca L. Kletnieks, Greer Gilman, Mary Catelli, Abigail Weiner, Vikki Rose, Trisha Wooldridge (m)

Starship Troopers: 50 Years Later — 1hr — Paul Revere B

In the wake of Sputnik and in reply to an anti-nuclear group's publicity, Heinlein paid for a full-page newspaper ad calling for increased nuclear testing, entitled "Who Are The Heirs Of Patrick Henry?" The next year, with the ad firmly in mind, he published "Starship Troopers." How does this book speak to us fifty years later? Are the themes more or less relevant than they were at the height of the Cold War? Charles E. Gannon, James Zavaglia, Stephen R. Wilk (m), John McDaid, Howard G. Beatman, Christopher Weuve

The Mind of the Nerd: Psychology and Fandom — 1hr — Room 204

While the geek population is broad and diverse, there are some common psychological traits among geeks. What are these traits, and what can we learn about ourselves and each other by examining them? Michelle Wexelblat, Martha H. Adams, D. Cameron Calkins, Jean Rossner, Aimee Yermish (m)

Minx No More — 1hr — William Dawes A

DC's Minx line targeted young women; DC cites its "failure" to lacking an audience, but manga sales prove that wrong. Minx was never given a chance to thrive, but in its one short year it brought out some fantastic books. What went wrong? How can we bring character-driven original graphic novels to an audience that's clearly there? Alexander S. Kay, Elayna Jade Smolowitz, Alisa Kwitney Sheckley (m)

Warren Ellis: Genius, Madman,or both? — 1hr — William Dawes B

Warren Ellis continues to take comics by storm, rampaging across Marvel and Avatar, in addition to maintaining a weekly webcomic. He is notoriously over-the-top, and his blog is definitely NSFW. Is he bringing the bizarre into the mainstream? Adam Lipkin, Jaime Garmendia (m), Woodrow Hill


Saturday 7:30 PM

Next Door — 30min — Molly Pitcher

A sobering story by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., about what happens when an imaginative young boy is left alone with nothing but a television set, a radio, and a real life drama next door. Directed for WGBH in 1976 by local filmmaker Andrew Silver with lighting by the late Minor White.28 min color 16mm


Saturday 8:00 PM

Reading—Barry Longyear — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Barry will be reading a selection from his body of work.

Battle Royale: PS3 vs Xbox vs Wii — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Sony was up, Nintendo was down. Now Nintendo's on top, and Sony and Microsoft are trying to change their mojo. What's going on in the ever-changing world of console gaming? Which platform is best? William Mui, Bill Pomeroy, Mitchell Morris (m), Michael Bonet

Gankutsuou, The Count of Monte Cristo — 1hr — Haym Solomon

While vacationing on the moon, Albert, a young Parisian nobleman, meets the Count of Monte Cristo, a fabulously rich aristocrat from the far reaches of the galaxy. Fascinated by the count's sophistication and intelligence, Albert is unaware of the older man's dark purpose: to enact revenge for a terrible act of betrayal committed against him twenty-five years ago. Soon, all of Paris, including Albert's own mother and father, will feel the terror of the count's vengeance. Mary McConnell Dumas

This Island Earth — 1hr 30min — Molly Pitcher

This film is probably best known for having been made fun of by Mst3k, but in fact it's one of the more thoughtful SF films of the fifties, with shifting alliances, evil invasion plots, and Earth scientists caught in-between. 1 hr. 27 min. In 35mm Cinemascope with Color by Technicolor

Mirror Neurons, Empathy, and "Theory of Mind" — 1hr — Paul Revere A

The discovery of mirror neurons has been a watershed for neuroscience. Mirror neurons "light up" when we watch someone perform an activity, causing our brain to react very much as if we had performed the activity ourselves. They may be responsible for hard-wired empathy and play a role in altruism and "theory of mind" (the understanding that others have mental states like we do), and they may be defective or absent in sociopaths. Catherine Asaro, Eric M. Van, John Kraemer, Michael Kabongo (m)

CRPGs: The Next Generation — 1hr — Paul Revere B

A few decades ago the only computer roleplaying games were text-based or used ASCII art. What forms might computer and video console roleplaying games take ten and fifteen years from now? Sarah Smith, Bill Levay, Shava Nerad (m)

Unforgettable Moments — 1hr — Room 204

Gwen Stacy falling off the bridge. The big reveal at the end of Watchmen. What moments in comics do you find unforgettable? We'll discuss our favorites and take suggestions from the audience. Karl G. Heinemann, Jerome C. Conner (m), Tim Lieder

The Easter Bunny Must Die!—table top game — 4hr — Thomas Paine AB

A sequel to last year's "In Madness There is Madness." Though a dire plot was stopped, evil cultists have concocted a new plan. Imagine the Easter Bunny with tentacles passing out eggs that will hatch octopoid spawn! Richard B. Auffrey

D&D ARMIES—tourney — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

A tourney to test out a new system of staging mass battles in D&D; those who wish to be involved need to attend the organizational meeting on Friday. T. Christopher Davis

The Book Didn't Change, But I Did — 1hr — William Dawes A

Rereading a book you loved as a child, or a teenager, or even last year can be an entirely new experience. Let's reflect together on how books have changed in meaning when read again after life's changes. Rebecca L. Kletnieks, Greer Gilman, Mary Catelli, Jennifer Pelland, Sonya Taaffe (m)

All I Ever Needed to Know, I Learned From Comics — 1hr — William Dawes B

History as told by Sequential Art—From Jason Lutes' BERLIN to Rick Geary's historical humor; from Ben Grimm as Blackbeard to Larry Gonick's Cartoon History of the Universe: What's right, what's wrong, and what's just plain goofy. Stephen R. Wilk, Israel Peskowitz, Alexander S. Kay, Ed Fuqua (m)


Saturday 8:30 PM

Reading—Margaret Ronald — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Margaret Ronald will be reading from Spiral Hunt, her first novel, coming out from Eos Books later in January. Margaret Ronald

Masquerade — 2hr — President's CD

The official Arisia Masquerade Walter H. Hunt, Ricky Dick, Karen Dick


Saturday 9:00 PM

This is the War Room! — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

"Dr. Strangelove" turns 45 and seems more prescient then ever with its politicians and military leaders disconnected from reality. Does this black and white classic by Stanley Kubrick still speak to us today, or do modern viewers need a remake in color with Will Smith and Keanu Reeves? The government insisted at the time that deranged people acting without authority could never get us into a war. Are you still convinced? James Zavaglia, Keith R. A. DeCandido (m), John McDaid, Terry Franklin, Garen Daly, David Larochelle

Voices of a Distant Star — 30min — Haym Solomon

In the midst of an alien invasion, Mikako joins the resistance, leaving behind the one young man she loves. As she goes deeper into space, Mikako's only connection with her boyfriend is through cell-phone text messages. The war rages on and years pass, but Mikako barely ages in the timelessness of space while Noboru grows old. How can the love of two people, torn apart by war, survive? Voices of a Distant Star was written, directed and produced entirely by Makoto on his Macintosh computer. Mary McConnell Dumas

Steampunk vs. Cyberpunk — 1hr — Paul Revere A

We'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? Is it cyclical, a throwback to the Jules Verne-style adventure? Or is it the simple fact that airships will always be cool? Jonathan Woodward (m), Mary Catelli, Mario di Giacomo, Victoria Janssen, Vikki Rose

Your Kink is Okay — 1hr — Paul Revere B

No 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. Lawrence Nelson, Lee Harrington (m), Sarah Sloane, Aimee Bouchard, Cassie Olewinski

Foreign SF — 1hr — Room 204

SF in other languages is gaining in popularity. Come discuss SF in German, French, Polish, Japanese, and other languages! Tony Finan (m), Mimi Noyes

Second Life: Impact on First Life — 1hr — William Dawes A

In SL you can be a dragon, drow, an oddball. How is it positively and negatively influencing your real life? You can earn real college credits and get a visa to visit some countries… but you can be so into it that you lose touch with the real world. James Turner, (m), John Bacon, Shava Nerad

Intro to Anime's Adult Forms / Hentai, Yaoi — 1hr — William Dawes B

Anime 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—or with—stumbling into tentacle wielding giant mecha driven by dimensionally dislocated schoolgirls? OR Zowie! it's Yaoi!… school boys!?! Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Solomon Davidoff (m), John C. Watson


Saturday 9:30 PM

Reading—Steve Sawicki — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Steve will be reading his short story "Mr Zmith Goes to Washington" from the Future Washington Anthology. Steve Sawicki

Hellsing, Impure Soles — 1hr 30min — Haym Solomon

A secret war is brewing in the night—a war in which humanity is only a pawn. The mysterious Hellsing Organization deploys within the shadows to protect ordinary mortals from the undead legions that would prey upon us. Now, as the ghouls and vampires increase in number, they threaten the human police forces forcing the deployment of the Hellsing Organization's ultimate weapon—the rogue vampire, Arucard! Mary McConnell Dumas

Westworld — 1hr 30min — Molly Pitcher

During Michael Crichton's life, he wrote a number of screenplays centered around technology going terribly wrong but ingenious humans managing to overcome it. With his recent death we'd like to commemmorate his work. Delos is the vacation of the future, today. But you probably haven't bargained for Yul Brynner as a murderously malfunctioning robot. This film is in the process of being remade: see the original before it's too late. 1 hr. 28 min, In 16mmm


Saturday 10:00 PM

Song Circle: Sea Shanties — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

So 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. Jeff Keller

Vampires vs. Werewolves — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Only the rivalry between pirates and ninjas is in the same league as enmity between vampires and werewolves. Come pick a side and help the debaters defend it! Susan Hanniford Crowley (m), David Nurenberg, Tim Lieder, Michael Bonet

Bootblacking 101 — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Bootblacking is not only enjoyable from a service perspective; it can also be the basis for a very unique scene. It's a great way to flirt, too! We'll discuss bootblacking basics, and then discuss ways you can have fun with it. 18+ Only. Lee Harrington, Sarah Sloane (m), Ian Cooper Rose, Aimee Bouchard

Coming Attractions: 2009 Movies — 1hr — President's CD

The Masquerade half-time event.

Writing Sex Magic — 1hr — William Dawes A

Many 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. Genevieve Iseult Eldredge (m), Ed Fuqua, , Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein

Knowing the Score: Music in SF and Fantasy — 1hr — William Dawes B

How much impact does the score of a film or television series have on the viewer? What make the more memorable ones stand out? Do certain arrangements of instruments lend their sounds more easily to certain genres? Is there a reason why most of the Star Trek programs have a lead in that's heavy on the large horn section? Come discuss the some of your favorites and the hows and whys of how score choices are made. Catherine Asaro, D. Cameron Calkins (m), Ken Kingsgrave-Ernstein


Saturday 10:30 PM

Reading—Inanna Arthen — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Inanna will be reading from The Longer the Fall, the second novel in her Vampires of New England Series, which will be published in 2009. Inanna Arthen

The Eric in the Elevator Show — 1hr 30min — President's AB

Come see the film of last year's fan guest of honor, "Eric in the Elevator" presenting his fun and fast-paced elevator interviews. Eric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman


Saturday 11:00 PM

Filking Into the Night—Open Filking — 8hr — Crispus Attucks

Hear filk in its native environment! Make music happen. Sing! Play! Clap hands! Listen! Join the merriment! No experience necessary.

Perfect Creature — 1hr 30min — Haym Solomon

From New Zealand. This Alternate History Steampunk murder mystery unravels the fabric of history. 90 minutes R

The Original Battlestar Galactica — 2hr 45min — Molly Pitcher

It has come to our attention that many members of the younger generation do not realize just how bad the original Battlestar Galactica was. Therefore, in conjunction with the Institute For Very Bad Cinema, we are presenting the original theatrical film released to coincide with the original television series. Although beautifully photographed, the wooden acting, stilted dialogue, and ludicrous plot make this a film to be laughed at 2 hr. 28 min. In 35mm with original Sensurround.

Scening and Catharsis — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Many 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. How can one achieve a cathartic experience through BDSM, why do people do it, and what are some of the potential pitfalls? 18+ Only. Ed Fuqua, Lee Harrington, Sarah Sloane (m), Michelle Driscoll, Cassie Olewinski

Masquerade awards presentation — 30min — President's CD

none needed


Sunday 12:00 AM

The Eye of Argon — 1hr — Paul Revere A

One more line, just one more line…nope, you lost it! How much of this "story" can you read without falling into a giggle fit or stumbling over the words? Gordon Linzner, Michael Whitehouse, Solomon Davidoff (m), Noel Rosenberg

Saturday Club Dance — 6hr — President's CD

Johnny Zed will be spinning tunes from midnight until the last dancer drops; come shuffle your mortal coil to everything from favorites returned from beyond the grave to futuristic waves of dark sound from another dimension.

24-Hour Open Gaming — 23hr 59min — Thomas Paine AB

24-hour unscheduled gaming. Magnificent! James Pinkerton


Sunday 12:30 AM

Six String Samurai — 1hr 30min — Haym Solomon

In an Alternate History, the King is dead. A new King will be crowned in Las Vegas. Music binds the Universe together. 90 minutes R


Sunday 1:00 AM

Introduction to Poi and Circus Fun — 2hr — President's AB

Poi is a form of juggling or object manipulation employing a ball suspended from a length of rope which is held in hand and swung in circular patterns, comparable to club-twirling. Poi spinning originated with the Maori people of New Zealand and has recently become popular in many outdoor festivals and social gatherings. Come learn about poi and maybe try a spin yourself in this fun and educational workshop. Cassie Olewinski


Sunday 2:00 AM

YAOI Sampler—BL for Women — 1hr — Haym Solomon

to be announced Mary McConnell Dumas


Sunday 3:00 AM

Hentai—Anime for Men — 1hr — Haym Solomon

to be announced


Sunday 4:00 AM

Ghost Talker's Daydream — 2hr — Haym Solomon

Ghost Talker's Daydream is a horror anime created by Saki Okuse and Sankichi Meguro. It tells the story of Misaki Saiki, a young woman with a troubled past, who is a professional dominatrix in one of Tokyo's most exclusive S&M clubs. However, her real money comes from something she likes even less than being a dominatrix. Ever since childhood, Misaki has had the ability to see and communicate with ghosts, and that talent is put to use by the Livelihood Protection Agency. Mary McConnell Dumas


Sunday 7:00 AM

Cartoons and Cereal — 2hr — President's CD

A great way to wake-up on Sunday morning with Cartoons and Cereal Glenn MacWilliams


Sunday 8:00 AM

Arisia 2009 Blood Bowl Tournament — 6hr — Paul Revere A

ArisiaBowl IV 2009 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. Maureen Reddington-Wilde


Sunday 9:00 AM

Hello Kitty Stump Village — 1hr — Haym Solomon

Claymation Hello Kitty and all her friends Mary McConnell Dumas

Zardoz — 1hr 45min — Molly Pitcher

In this British production, a wild but intelligent savage (played by a young and well-muscled Sean Connery) hitches a ride on a flying head made of rock and arrives in a land of immortal lotus eaters. Well, disgruntled immortal lotus eaters. An odd and understated film, this is one of the rare productions that is more interesting than its trailer. 1 hr. 45 min., In 16mm pan-and-scan

Realms—boffer weapon demos and practices — 6hr — Prefunction D

The Realms will be holding fighting practice, demonstrations, and tournaments in the outdoor courtyard. The Realms is a LARP group. They use foam-padded weapons to resolve melee combat (sword-fighting) and the game supports a magic system as well (for all manners of wondrous things not possible in real life). Come and learn about this long running LARP community. Participants can borrow weapons or make their own weapons for $5. Rebecca Garbos, Jeremy (Fencer) Sullivan, Andrew V. Disbrow (m), Andy Rumph, Ken Crowley, Becky Baron, Robert Disbrow

The Knight's Challenge — 2hr — President's AB

A historically inspired fencing challenge and tourney. Like Knights of old our Champion will set out his shield and take-on all comers to win glory and renown. Each challenger will face off against the Champion of Kunstbruder (the Brotherhood of the Art of Defence). Once each challenger has faced him down the best challengers will face-off against each other to determine the Victor. Steven Hirsch

Kung Fu Morning Stretch — 1hr — President's CD

Kung Fu Morning Bill Yerazunis


Sunday 10:00 AM

Poetry Reading — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Poetry from a few featured readers, followed by open mike—come to listen, stay to read Joseph Kesselman, Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Catherynne Valente

The Year in Global Warming — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

2008 was a colder year than 2007. We lost three weeks out of the start of the growing season. It snowed in the Alps in August. The southern hemisphere has had its most brutally cold winter in years. Biofuels threaten the world with famine and the EU is cutting back on enviromania for fear of economic depression. Where has the heat gone? Our panelists will discuss the theories and ther reality of the global environment changes that have occurred in the past year. John H. Costello, Tom Wysmuller (m)

Defend Yourself Against the Aliens — 2hr — Fast Track 2

Self-defense techniques for boys & girls. Learn to defend yourself from insults & actions. Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Stephen R. Balzac (m)

Tissue Paper Collage — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Create a masterpiece of color to take home. Susan de Guardiola, Charlene Taylor D'Alessio (m)

Moebius—Masters of Time — 1hr 15min — Haym Solomon

subtitled 75 Minutes G

How to Run a Convention — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Future SMOFs of America! Interview con planners, to discuss what goes into making a con happen. Michael Whitehouse, jan howard finder (m), Mary McConnell Dumas

Using, Making & Modifying Sewing Patterns — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Drafting a pattern is difficult for most of us, It's often easier to start with a known pattern and change it to do what we need. How do you start? Our panelists discuss useful patterns, how to go about making changes, and end up with your own pattern and a mock-up of your outfit that fits perfectly! Elaine Isaak, Abigail Weiner, Nightwing Whitehead, James Hinsey (m), Sara M. Harvey

Reducing Your Carbon Footprint — 1hr — Room 201

Living green isn't easy, but lots of people are making it work. Come discuss ways to live a greener, more sustainable lifestyle. Bonnie Barlow Turner, Ken Gale (m), James Turner, James B. Van Bokkelen

Making a Video Game 101 — 1hr — Room 204

Though you've played video games, you've never really been sure how one gets made. How does a game go from concept to code to finished product? What about distribution and marketing? Come talk with people who've worked in the industry and find out what makes a video game. Alexander S. Kay (m), Sarah Smith, Mark "Justin" Waks, Bill Levay

Roborally—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Time to enjoy a little fun at the factory's expense! Program factory robots and pit them against each other in frantic, destructive races across the factory floors. Be the first to touch the flags, in order, and you win it all: the honor, the glory, the grudging respect of the other computers. But first you have to get your robot past obstacles like gaping pits, industrial lasers, moving conveyor belts and, of course, the other robots! Brennan Martin

Blokus and Blokus Trigon—table top game — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

Come learn to play Blokus and Blokus Trigon, or join in if you aleady know the games. Both are quick strategy games involving the placement of colorful tiles. Easy to learn! Gyodi Reid

Color in Costuming,What, It's Not All Black? — 1hr — William Dawes A

How colors, shades and hues affect what is actually SEEN on stage and up close. Color Theory and the basics of black, white, and shades of gray affect perspective in measurable ways. Learn how to make these visual impressions work for you in building and showing your costume, both for the Workmanship Judge and for the audience. Kristina Finan, Jennie Faries, Karen Dick (m), Barbara M. Pugliese

What Makes Us Human — 1hr — William Dawes B

We humans share almost 99 percent of our genome with our closest living relatives, the chimpanzees. Yet the differences between humans and other primates are striking. How did we come to be this way, and what caused this divergence? We will investigate the genetic and fossil evidence, and discuss various theories of how we became human. The result may surprise you! Disclaimer: This talk includes frank discussion of sexual behavior, both human and ape. Wil Howitt


Sunday 10:30 AM

Docent Tour with David Seeley — 30min — Charles View Ballroom

Tour the Arisia 2009 Art Show with our Artist Guest of Honor, David Seeley David R. Seeley


Sunday 11:00 AM

Reading—Hildy Silverman — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

She will be reading "The Darren"—a short story to be included in an upcoming anthology from Esther Friesner, "Witch Way to the Mall," from Baen Books. Hildy Silverman

Comics Is Controversy — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

The panel will examine the controversial history of comics, from Superman's early appearance to "Seduction of the Innocent" and the subsequent loss of whole genres of comics, Robert Crumb to "Genius", the new comic about a 17-year-old black female military tactician taking on the LAPD, and many more! Daniel P. Dern, Ken Gale, Mark "Justin" Waks, Woodrow Hill (m), Daniel Miller

Book Signing—Catherynne Valente — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Catherynne Valente. Catherynne Valente

Book Signing -Trisha Wooldrige — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing session with Trisha Wooldrige. Trisha Wooldridge

The Works of Tamora Pierce — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Who is Tamora Pierce & why would you like her books? The Marvelous MERV

Fabricating Spaceships or Time Machines — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Make your own creation with our supply of paper tubes, shiny sticky papers, and homemade playdough. Bruce Mackenzie

The Ugly Little Boy — 30min — Molly Pitcher

This is a 1977 adaptation of Isaac Asimov's story about a child from the Neanderthal being brought into the future, and how the dispassionate nurse hired to take care of him became a friend. It's a lovely little adaptation that doesn't get seen much today. 26 min color 16mm

Responsible Monogamy — 1hr — Paul Revere B

You've found the love of your life. Now what? How do you keep love strong without stifling each other or boring yourselves? Are there secrets to keeping your relationship fresh? Come talk about how you can reach your golden anniversary together. Bonnie Barlow Turner, Michelle Wexelblat, Susan Hanniford Crowley, Aimee Yermish (m)

SF in video games — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Are video games a true SF medium? Some of them are SF in trappings only (Doom) and some of them are written by well-known authors (I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream). What about text adventure; diplomacy, exploration and trading; tactical; first-person action-adventure games? Joshua Mintzer (m), Alexander S. Kay, Bill Levay

Mad Scientist Laugh Contest — 1hr — President's CD

The Evil League of Evil is looking for a few good villains! But you'll NEVER get in if you don't work on that laugh. Come try out yours and see if you have what it takes to sit on…er…with Bad Horse! Solomon Davidoff (m), Howard G. Beatman, , Ian Cooper Rose

Basic Stage Makeup,Reasons, Supplies, Techniques — 1hr — Room 201

Even for the simplest costume walk-on/walk-off, makeup will enhance your stage presence, and give you added confidence. Discover how simple the basic techniques are, learn about supplies Martin Gear, Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Emily Skrodzki, Jamila Sisco, (m)

Blogging for Writers — 1hr — William Dawes A

Welcome to the new world of publishing—blogging sells books better than publishers' advertisements. Potential publishers can gather how much interest is in a work based on the friend's list and number of comments. Blogging is all about selling the author as well as the work. What content keeps visitors coming back? what strategies work for writers promoting their own work? What content is best to reach your readers,and how do you gather an audience in the first place? John Sundman, Tim Lieder, Adrianne Brennan

Costuming on the Cheap — 1hr — William Dawes B

How to look like a million bucks, without actually spending that much. Where to find cheap fabrics, ready-made and accessories and how to re-make them into one-of-a-kind creations in these tough economic times. Laurel Cunningham-Hill (m), Joe Niedbala, Nightwing Whitehead, Katherine Pfeffer

CJ 7 — 11:15 AM, 1hr 30min — Haym Solomon

Stephen Chow's latest epic comedy with plush dolls. 85 minutes PG


Sunday 11:30 AM

Reading—Keith R. A. DeCandido — 30min — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Keith will give the audience a variety of choices of what to read and they will decide. Keith R. A. DeCandido

Rocky Jones—Space Ranger — 30min — Molly Pitcher

Rocky Jones, Vena Ray, and ten-year-old Bobby cruise the galaxy in their space ship in this typical television space opera. The episode we are running, Pirates of Prah involves space piracy, hijacking, and everything else a kid in the fifties would want to see in a television show. 30 min, In 35mm Kludge


Sunday 12:00 PM

Crisis in Theoretical Physics — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

The list of experimental observations that violate the Standard Model of Physics grows longer every year. The model itself has grown increasingly baroque with inflation, dark matter and dark energy looking more and more like the modern equivalents of epicycles and phlogiston. Come listen to a quick tour of the many problems with contemporary physics and a humble proposal for a possible path out of the wilderness. Eric M. Van

Sexual Politics and Problems at Conventions — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Several problems have recently arisen at conventions—sexual harassment at ComicCon, the Open Source Boobies Project—that have exposed problems that have long been lurking. And this isn't just about not groping the girls in the skimpy costumes—this is about accepting "no", recognizing privilege and perspective, and about backing people up when you see they're having a problem. How can we work to make cons a place free of sexual harassment? Jonathan Woodward, Michael Whitehouse, Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Shira Lipkin (m), Thomas Traina, Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein

Book Signing—Michael Burstein — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Book signing session with Michael Burstein. Michael A. Burstein

Book Signing—Don Sakers — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing with Don Sakers Don Sakers

A Real Dungeon Crawl — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Let's talk about caves and cave exploring. We'll do an experiment to see how caves are made and look at some pictures of cave formations. We'll wrap up by looking at some real cave exploring equipment. Steven Hammond

Build It with Legos — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Legos! Brightly colored bits of plastic…and they all snap together! The Marvelous MERV

The Movie Year in Review — 1hr 30min — Molly Pitcher

Our annual look back at the year in SF, horror, and fantasy film. Our panel of experts will cover every theatrical release of 2008. Find out which ones are worth catching up with. Note: time for audience participation is reserved for the end of our panel's high speed review. Daniel M. Kimmel (m), Robert Newton, Garen Daly, John Bowker

Anime Distribution Changes/ Web Streaming — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Several distributors are streaming anime content on their websites? Much of it to entice people to buy their DVD. What's good? What's new? What to avoid. Michael Toole, Elizabeth OMalley (m)

The Diversity of Creativity — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Decades ago, comics were mostly created by white males. What does the evolving diversity of comic creators show us about modern society? Ken Gale, Mercy E. Van Vlack, Woodrow Hill (m)

Summit Mt. Arisia—Sunday — 1hr — Prefunction D

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. (Will run Saturday 3pm and Sunday noon. Meet in the stairwell at the far end of the Programming hallways on the first floor. Look for the signs.) Jude Shabry

David Seeley Artist GOH Event — 2hr — President's AB

Meet and greet Arisia's Artist Guest of Honor, David Seeley Jill Eastlake, Patricia Ann Vandenberg, Ricky Dick, Karen Dick (m), David R. Seeley

Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along — 1hr — President's CD

Sing-along with "Doctor Horrible's Sing-Along Blog"

Bad Contracts and Publishing Scams — 1hr — Room 201

Once, you could easily recognize a vanity press. They were gaudy, garish and they asked for money. Now, legitimate small presses and large publishers are embracing some of the same methods. Hear how to tell the legitimate small presses from the con artists. Keith R. A. DeCandido (m), James D. Macdonald, Sara M. Harvey, Michael Kabongo, Inanna Arthen

Why Knot? Macrame Workshop — 1hr — Room 204

Make a hemp and bead bracelet or necklace and learn some basic techniques that can be used over and over again Lisa A. Ashton (m), Liz Cademy Pfeffer

Manila—table top game — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

Barges, freight and profits are what it's all about in Manila, a speculative contest for 3 to 5 players. Goods shipments, intended for transport along sea routes, are in danger of gathering dust in the warehouses or being lost at sea in a storm. While the players speculate about success and failure, the ultimate fate of the ships will be determined by the dice. Andrew Olech

Presidential Election Post-Mortem — 1hr — William Dawes A

It's all over but the inauguration. Come dissect, discuss and argue over what the winners did right and the losers did wrong. Ian Randal Strock (m), John H. Costello, Terry Franklin, David Nurenberg, A. Joseph Ross

The Future of SF/F Gaming — 1hr — William Dawes B

At one time genre gaming was exclusively on the table top, whether it was a board game, RPG or tactical miniatures game. Video games gave these games a new playing field to work with first with text and then with fully mapped out environments. The characters grow, evolve and change over time and with new experiences in the game world. What will be the next sea change in gaming? Kiralee B. McCauley, Alexander S. Kay (m), Walter Milliken, Bill Pomeroy

Short Hand Woven Silk — 12:45 PM, 15min — Haym Solomon

a short film


Sunday 1:00 PM

Bioethics in Theory and Practice — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Bioethics is a field of study concerned with the ethics and philosophical implications of certain biological and medical procedures, technologies, and treatments such as organ transplants, genetic engineering, and care of the terminally ill. Given currently emerging biological technologies, where do we draw the ethical line and for what reason? For example, will cloning of individual organs get the green light, but not whole organisms? Thomas Easton (m), Bonnie Barlow Turner, Amy Chused, Richard Stallman, Michael Kabongo

Fannish Disaster Prepardness — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

How to protect what's important to you from random acts of disaster. How do I protect my books from flooding? What foods should I keep on hand, other than Mountain Dew and Twinkies? Homeowner's and renter's insurance: what they cover and what they don't. Come learn how to prepare yourself for when the zombies come! T. Christopher Davis, Martha H. Adams, (m), James B. Van Bokkelen, David Larochelle

Book Signing—Genevieve Iseult Eldredge — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1A

Autograph Session with Genevieve Iseult Eldredge. Genevieve Iseult Eldredge

Book Signing—Sara M. Harvey — 1hr — Crow's Nest—1B

Book signing session with Sara M. Harvey. Sara M. Harvey

What Do YOU Want — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Let us know what sort of panels you want for the future! What did we miss? Rachel Sommer

Alien Rubbings — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Art work turned in by aliens? Benjamin Newman

Hands-On Science for Kids, Take 2 — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Have 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. Stephen R. Wilk (m), Stephanie Clarkson

This Week on Brit TV — 2hr — Haym Solomon

This Week on Brit TV Lance C. Oszko

What Is Steampunk, from a Costumers POV — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Some say Steampunk, or a Victorian retro-future is the current trend in costuming. Discover what it is and how costumes and characters are created?how to use what you have to go back in time and still be futuristic Mario di Giacomo, Jennie Faries, Karl Winkler (m), Barbara M. Pugliese,

Convention Feedback II — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Feedback for the staff about the convention so far. Buzz Harris (m), Richard Kovalcik, Jill Eastlake

Female Fandom in Comics — 1hr — Room 201

Women read comics, ravenously. Manga purchased primarily by girls and women is available in every Barnes and Noble, with sales rivaling DC and Marvel. Come discuss what about mainstream comics appeals to women and how we can encourage the big names to produce more of it. Kiralee B. McCauley, Ken Gale, Woodrow Hill, Melissa Gavazzi (m)

Mars Homestead: a Mars Settlement Reference Plan — 1hr — Room 204

Bring your ideas on establishing an early scientific Mars Base, quickly growing into a permanent settlement, constructed from local materials. Arnis Kletnieks, Terry Franklin, Toni Lay, Bruce Mackenzie (m), Tom Wysmuller, Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman

Harry Potter and the Lawsuit of the Lexicon — 1hr — William Dawes A

The Harry Potter Lexicon is a fan-created online encyclopedia of the Harry Potter series. Warner Brothers and Rowling filed suit against RDR Books to block the publication of a 400-page book version of the Harry Potter Lexicon by the website creators. Come hear both sides of the issue and discuss what the ruling may mean for the future of fan-generated content on the web and in print. Lisa Adler-Golden (m), Resa Nelson, Thomas Traina, Inanna Arthen, Daniel Miller

Angels and Devils in Manga — 1hr — William Dawes B

From Angel Sanctuary to Yu Yu Hakusho, there are many portrayals of angels and devils in manga. Why this fascination with residents of the other side? Is it because devils make easy stock villains and angels are assumed to be the good guys all the time? Is it that the corruption and redemption cycle make for a more compelling storyline? Or maybe angels and devils just have the coolest clothes. Israel Peskowitz, Elizabeth McCoy (m), Mary McConnell Dumas


Sunday 1:30 PM

Heave Away — 10min — Molly Pitcher

This short film on the decommissioning of a spacecraft is set to music by Helva Peters. 16mm, 6 min, Color by RGB/DuArt

Our Man Flint — 1:40 PM, 2hr — Molly Pitcher

James Coburn plays secret agent Derek Flint in this marvelous spoof of James Bond films. Chasing eco-terrorists while surrounded by teams of beautiful women and improbable gadgets, he saves the world in the second reel and then saves the world again in the fourth. If anything, it's interesting to watch how Austin Powers seems like a pale and crude imitation of the amusingly overstated Flint. 1 hr. 48 min, In 35mm


Sunday 2:00 PM

Ask a Geek: Physics, Chemistry, and Engineering — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Is there something you'd really like to know about in physics, chemistry, or engineering? The panelists will take questions from the audience and answer them. 100% accuracy not guaranteed. Arnis Kletnieks, Bill Yerazunis, Vonnie Carts-Powell, Jeff Hecht, Bruce Mackenzie (m)

Guilty Pleasures — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Oh sure, you've read the Hugo winners and the Nebula winners but what about the books you don't like to admit you like? Do you harbor a secret love of the Xanth series? 1970s military SF? Is that a Gor novel shoved way back in your closet? Come share your deep love of your secret literary shame at this panel. Don Sakers (m), James A. Wolf, Lisa Adler-Golden, Debra Doyle, Michael D. Pederson, Cassie Olewinski

Cartooning & Comic Creating — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Learn how to draw cartoons and construct a comic. Mercy E. Van Vlack

Board Gaming for Kids — 1hr — Fast Track 3

We'll check out games like Settlers of Catan, Monopoly, Scrabble, and more. Mitchell Morris (m), Michael Bonet

If You Like X, You May LIke Y (Anime) — 1hr — Paul Revere A

You may have liked the anime you've seen on Adult Swim and you're hungering for more. We'll suggest new or unfamiliar titles which might complement the ones you've already enjoyed. Come find unexpected gems! Walter Milliken, John C. Watson (m), Jennifer Yoo

Human Reproduction and Science Fiction — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Cloning, freezing eggs and sperm, embryonic adoption, etc. are all changing the way we think about reproduction. What's on the horizon, how much of what has been speculated is coming true, what came first—the scientific advances or the science fiction? Amy Chused, Dr. James Prego (m)

Shojo in Science Fiction & Fantasy — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Romantic shojo anime is produced to appeal to girls. Many romantic series have a fantasy or science fiction twist that draws the heroine and hero together, or forces them apart. Our panelists will introduce you to this subgenre. Catherine Asaro, Elizabeth OMalley (m)

Ricky and Karen Dick Fan GOH Event — 1hr — President's AB

An hour with our Fan Guests of Honor, costumers Ricky and Karen Dick Ricky Dick, Karen Dick

"Second Shift" Live Radio Drama — 1hr — President's CD

"Second Shift", the Parsec award-nominated, slice-of-life comedy/epic fantasy-adventure audio drama serial, returns to Arisia to perform an original, live episode (titled "Dreams") guaranteed to delight both new listeners and fans alike! Learn more about the show at secondshiftpodcast.com.

Jules Verne's Renaissance — 1hr — Room 201

In addition to his well known tales, many of Jules Verne's stories have been freshly translated into English in the past decade: The Kip Brothers, The Golden Volcano, The Invasion of the Sea, The Mighty Orinoco and The Hunt for the Comet, for a start. Has steampunk led to a new wave of interest in the original Victorian science fiction author, 180 years after his birth? What should be reading, what's been overlooked, and what's safely ignored? Stephen R. Wilk (m), Mario di Giacomo

Design Track 3: Design Characters — 1hr — Room 204

Part 3 of a 4-part, linked creative series of panels: The second panel is on character development. The audience, with panel help, develops characters to populate a story (Part 2) set in the world created in Part 1. See Parts 1 and 2 to see where we started, and Part 4 for where we end up. Attendance at all 4 panels encouraged but not required. Walter H. Hunt, David R. Seeley, Peter Prellwitz

Lionheart—table top game — 4hr — Thomas Paine AB

The great architect and priest Imhotep hid a powerful secret in the deserts of Egypt. Now it is 1936 and the darkness spreading out of Europe threatens to wipe away the sands of time and claim that treasure for its own. Can you find it before the Nazi's do? Can you escape with your life? Steven Hammond

TV to Comics — 1hr — William Dawes A

Joss Whedon decided to continue Firefly and Buffy in comics form; now others are joining in, continuing canceled TV series as graphic novels, such as Farscape. It's a novel way to continue a series—and the special effects are a lot cheaper! Keith R. A. DeCandido (m), Cynthia A. Shettle, Mark "Justin" Waks

Co-Housing: Beyond the Commune — 1hr — William Dawes B

Co-housing is becoming increasingly more attractive as people try to find more ways to live a greener, cheaper lifestyle. How does co-housing work in the real world? What are the different ways to do it? And how do you find others who also want to live this way? Ian Cooper Rose (m), Aimee Bouchard, Evonne Heyning, Rayne Hellion


Sunday 3:00 PM

Ask a Geek: Biology, Psychology, and Medicine — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Is there something you'd really like to know about biology, psychology, or medicine? The panelists will take questions from the audience and answer them. 100% accuracy not guaranteed. Rebecca L. Kletnieks, Amy Chused, Aimee Yermish, Dr. James Prego (m), Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman

Disability and Fandom — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Many fen have disabilities, and they aren't always obvious to the outside world. Are these disabilities barriers to full participation in the fannish community? What can conventions do to make sure every fan gets the full convention experience? What can all fans do to help their fellow fen who need it? Alicia Verlager (m), Jaime Garmendia, Karen Sullivan

I want a fairy godparent! — 1hr — Fast Track 1

What would you do with a fairy godparent? Would yours be like Cinderella's, or like "The Fairly Odd Parents"? Would you abuse your power, or use it wisely? Also, do you think you really deserve one? Jan Dumas

Knit One Perl Two—Fannish Fiber Arts for Kids — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Knitting, weaving, finger knitting, crocheting… Roxanne Reddington-Wilde, Elizabeth McCoy, Hillary Sherwood, Liz Cademy Pfeffer (m)

Sound Effects for Story Telling — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Enhance your stories with sound effects like those heard on radio plays. Benjamin Newman

Studio Ghibli — 2hr — Haym Solomon

A 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. Michael Toole, John C. Watson (m)

The Future of Online Community — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Over the past fifteen years, we've been creating and participating in communities online—mailing lists, BBSs, now blogging sites. But the new prevalence of Facebook and MySpace and their clones… don't exactly spell doom for online community, but spell trouble. Facebook and MySpace don't have communities or conversations; people using these services don't actually connect with anything. How do we maintain our online community? Peter Maranci, Mark "Justin" Waks (m), Shava Nerad, Evonne Heyning, Inanna Arthen

Age and Treachery: The Older Fan — 1hr — Paul Revere B

How does growing older impact one's experiences as a sci-fantasy fan? How do our experiences color how we enjoy the ideas, the stories and the media? Did we think, a decade (or three) ago, we'd still be going to conventions and seeing the same friends? Are we worried about the future of fandom? John H. Costello, David Nurenberg (m), Mario di Giacomo, Lisa Wood, Starwolf

Costuming Without Sewing — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Yes, Virginia, it not only CAN be done, but is done fabulously everywhere. Learn from costumers who don't even have sewing machines; how they get their ideas and transform them into reality with metal, paper, fiberglass, foam, paint, electronics,… jan howard finder, Jennifer Yoo, Katherine Pfeffer, (m)

A New "Red Shift" Radio Drama with PMRP! — 1hr — President's CD

"IT'S GO TIME! THE POST-MERIDIAN RADIO PLAYERS return to Boston's largest sci-fi convention with another live episode of their original sci-fi comedy, "Red Shift, Planetary Do-Gooder in: Dance of the Duplicates" which pays homage to the pulp sci-fi serials of the 1930s and 40s. Join our heroes,Red, Lumpy, Doc Alberts and Penny Parker, Girl Reporter,as they encounter double the trouble while in pursuit of a team of would-be Do-Gooders, only to encounter Red's arch-nemesis, Violet Spektra!"

The Hero As A God's Champion — 1hr — Room 201

When a character is the chosen agent of a god, placed into the world as a soldier in a war of faiths or as a pawn in the Great Game, how does the author find coexistence between free will and divine will, and how can the author develop a character who is fated to complete a mission? Lawrence Watt-Evans (m), Elaine Isaak, Margaret Ronald, Vikki Rose

Decorate Your Pod Workshop — 1hr — Room 204

How do you keep your treasures from becoming clutter? We'll be presenting tips on how to make your paintings of dragons, collections of action figures, models, comic books, dice, and books, books, books attractively fit into the space you have. Bey Woodward

SRM 03–02: Block War—table top game — 3hr — Thomas Paine AB

Shadowrun 4th Edition game—What starts as a petty fight could degenerate to a full scale war. When things are turning sour, who said mediators had to be neutral? Pre-made characters provided, or make new using normal 400BP creation rules. Jonathan Riedel

The Nature of Gender: Past, Present and Future — 1hr — William Dawes A

What is gender? How much does environment contribute to one's gender orientation? At one time two genders were considered the norm, now there may be four, five or perhaps more depending on your definition. Will gender still have the same meaning in the future? Will it mean anything at all? Jennifer Pelland, Lee Harrington (m), Aimee Bouchard, Michelle Driscoll, Trisha Wooldridge

Pushing Daisies — 1hr — William Dawes B

"Good artists copy. Great artists steal."—Picasso. One of the wonders of Pushing Daisies is that it wears its influences (Tim Burton, Jean-Pierre Jeunet) so openly… and yet transcends them and achieves something utterly original. We'll talk about why we love the show and about the strength of artistic vision that allows it to b/o/r/r/o/w/ steal from the best. Nomi S. Burstein, Mimi Noyes, Eric M. Van (m), Michael A. Burstein, Sonya Taaffe


Sunday 3:30 PM

Michael Crichton's Westworld — 1hr 30min — Molly Pitcher

Delos is the vacation of the future, today. At Delos you get your choice of the vacation you want, but you probably haven't bargained for Yul Brynner as a murderously malfunctioning robot. This film is in the process of being remade: see the original before it's too late. 16mm, 1 hr. 28 min.


Sunday 4:00 PM

Ask a Geek: Sociology, Language and Culture — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Is there something you'd really like to know about sociology, anthropology, language or culture? The panelists will take questions from the audience and answer them. 100% accuracy not guaranteed. Roxanne Reddington-Wilde (m), Solomon Davidoff, David Nurenberg, John Kraemer

Geocaching 101 — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Geocaching utilizes multi-billion dollar military satellite technology to find small pieces of Tupperware hidden in the woods. Come learn about this relatively new hobby. Jude Shabry, Micah Schneider, Aimee Bouchard, Eric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman (m)

How Do You Explain Cons to Your Friends? — 1hr — Fast Track 1

You're sure your friends would like going to cons, but you can't convince them—or their parents. How do you tell your friends about cons, and get them to go? How do you explain it to their parents? And what about your muggle friends—how do you explain cons to them? Don Sakers (m), Dr. James Prego

A la Ollivander: Magic Wands — 1hr — Fast Track 3

Which wand would you choose? Or would it choose you? Susan de Guardiola

The Best Webcomics You're Not Reading — 1hr — Paul Revere A

The thousands upon thousands of available webcomics range from wretched to wonderful, from the most mundane to the freakiest of the fantastic. We're going to discuss the best of the best from various genres—and we're sure to cover some you haven't heard of yet. Lawrence Watt-Evans, Israel Peskowitz, James Turner (m), Wednesday Burns-White, Peter Prellwitz

A Diddly Dydly Doo, Why Don't You — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Thinking about writing songs of your own? Starting out with somebody else's tune means you just need to write the words. How do you write an effective lyric? What makes a parody stand out from the crowd? The panelists will share their songwriting tips and maybe write a lyric or two. Mark A. Mandel, Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Benjamin Newman

NoeL Meeting — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Northern Lights Costumers' Guild NoeL is a Chapter of the International Costumers' Guild, a non-profit organization which seeks to educate the public and enjoy the construction and wearing of all forms of costume.

Goth Twilight Party and Concert — 4hr — President's AB

Goth Twilight Party and Concert by Twelfth of Never, with lots of "sparkly" vampires. Mary McConnell Dumas

New England Audio Theatre Producers Panel — 1hr — President's CD

New England Audio Theatre Producers (NEATPro) Panel

Body Art Forum — 1hr — Room 201

A discussion for those of us who create body art, whether permanent like tattoos and piercings or temporary like henna or body painting. How do you create art for the body as opposed to more static forms? Do you need to wear it yourself to do it well? What does your body art say about you? David C. Kaplowitz, Sarah Sloane (m)

Introduction to Shamanism — 1hr — Room 204

Shamanism is a range of traditional beliefs and practices concerned with communication with the spirit world. There are many variations of how shamanism has practiced throughout the world. Come hear about the history of shamanism as well as how it is being practiced today. Lee Harrington, Starwolf (m)

St. Petersburg—table top game — 2hr — Thomas Paine AB

St Petersburg is a game that deals with gracious living along the river Neva: the baroque palaces, wide boulevards, and imposing bridges of St. Petersburg. Quickly, construct glorious buildings to earn Fame Points, find merchants who can bankroll the necessary Rubles, and watch out for the competition! Andrew Olech

Costuming for LARPs — 1hr — William Dawes A

How to scrounge up the pieces to that perfect post-apocalyptic look. Or that Victorian look. How to make sure you look awesome but also be practical for running in the woods. The differences to keep in mind when costuming for hotel-based theater style games as opposed to the boffer in the woods sort of games. Anna R. Bradley (m), John Bacon

Lolita Fashion and Culture 202 — 1hr — William Dawes B

Already familiar with the basics of the Lolita subculture? Come discuss Lolita in the media (the EGL Bible, the movie Kamikaze Girls), how it relates to music, and American versus Japanese influences on your own Lolita style and philosophy. We will also discuss places to shop, ways to put together outfits, and authentic companies that ship to the States. Lauren Stern, Julie Vining, Caitlin Ruelle (m)


Sunday 5:00 PM

Space Travel and the Human Body — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Oh sure, it looks cool on the big screen. Zooming through space with nary a hair out of place and no motion sickness. There is no mention of calcium depletion, muscle atrophy or any of the other things that happens when traveling a weightless near vacuum. Come listen to the effects space travel has on the human body and what is done to offset those effects to keep space travel viable. Dr. Jason S. Schneiderman

Birds of a Feather Geocaching Event — 1hr — Cambridge AB

Welcome to the 2nd Annual Arisia Birds of a Feather Geocaching Event! Bring your trackable coins and bugs to swap along with stories from the trail. Never tried it before? We'll show you how to get started and this event can be your first "find"! Jude Shabry, Micah Schneider (m), Aimee Bouchard, Eric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman

You Don't Know Dick! — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Come play a trivia game where we'll ask you multiple choice questions where the answer is "Dick", but which one? Philip K, Ricky, or Karen? Martin Gear (m), Ricky Dick, Karen Dick

Have Space Suit: Heinlein for Juveniles — 1hr — Fast Track 1

Heinlein's juvenile stories have long been admired and imitated, but are they just too dated for today's youth? John H. Costello, Solomon Davidoff (m), Christopher Weuve

Magic: The Gathering — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Come play Magic: The Gathering! No experience necessary! Walter H. Hunt

Jade Warrior — 2hr — Haym Solomon

From Finland/ China. Forging Iron and reindeer hides hold the secrets of Cornucopia. 110 minutes PG-13

The first Japanese SF TV series: Ultra-Q — 30min — Molly Pitcher

We will be presenting an episode from the first Japanese SF television series ever made. Produced by Eiji Tsuburaya, who lwent on to make Ultraman, it is actually a very thoughtful program that seems to owe a lot to the Twilight Zone. Oh, except for the Japanese monsters. We guarantee it will be in Japanese with a live translator, it has never been shown in the US before, and it will be from the 1965 season. 30 min, In 16mm Fuji B&W James Hinsey

The Power of Myth — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Comics like Sandman and Fables explore myth and folklore in the context of comics. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen does the same with literary legend. What are your favorite four-color reimaginings of myth and magic? What pantheons and legends are underused? Ken Gale (m), Shira Lipkin, Adam Lipkin, Jaime Garmendia

Poly 120: Are You a Swinger, Baby? — 1hr — Paul Revere B

What is swinging, and how (or is it) different from polyamory? Why do some poly people try to distance themselves from swingers? Alan Wexelblat, Bey Woodward (m), Lee Harrington, Sarah Sloane, Michelle Driscoll

Arisia Corporate Meeting — 1hr — Prefunction BC

An 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). Buzz Harris, Crystal Huff, Richard Kovalcik, September L. Isdell (m), Jill Eastlake, Benjamin M. Levy, Cris Shuldiner, Nicholas Shectman

RuneQuest Reborn — 1hr — Room 201

Out of print for a decade, the classic skill-based RPG is now being published by three different (and competing) game companies. What's going on? Why three different versions, and what are their strengths and weaknesses? Peter Maranci

So You Want To Build A Con… — 1hr — Room 204

You love cons so much you want to put one on yourself. How do you start, what are the pitfalls, and why you should—or shouldn't—do it. Debra Fran Baker, Ellen Kranzer, Lisa Wood, Robert Hafner, Hugh Casey (m)

Blokus and Blokus Trigon—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Come learn to play Blokus and Blokus Trigon, or join in if you aleady know the game. Both are quick strategy games involving the placement of colorful tiles. Easy to learn! Gyodi Reid

Steampunk Anime Style — 1hr — William Dawes A

Steam Boy, Edward Elric, and a host of other anime and manga have explored the concepts Jules Vernes first put down. What is Steampunk? Why does it continue to fascinate across many countries and fans? Israel Peskowitz, Mario di Giacomo (m), Mimi Noyes, Starwolf

The History of Fandom — 1hr — William Dawes B

You like reading and watching the shows, playing the games, and wearing the outfits, but how did it all get started? Come hear about murky depths of fandom past. A quick trip through fannish history, including the brilliant highs, and the tragic lows. jan howard finder


Sunday 5:30 PM

God Mazinger — 30min — Molly Pitcher

Episode 10 of Go Nagai's 1983 Maijin Densetsu anime series. Teenager Yamato Hibino has been sucked through a time warp into the past, where she helps Queen Aira of Mu to fight against the dinosaur army of the Dragonia Empire with the help of the stone gardian God Mazinger. bf In the original Japanese with live translation.} Brand new print that looks fabulous. 16mm, 30 min, color by Tokyo Film Labs James Hinsey


Sunday 6:00 PM

Who Are You and Where Did My Kid Go? — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Your little darling is growing up, and you suddenly have NO idea who they are anymore. Raising adolescents can be tricky. It's one thing to be freewheeling and tolerant, but watching your teenage kid be equally freewheeling and tolerant can bring up a lot of anxiety. Come talk about the unique nature of the adolescent. Scott Lefton, Aimee Yermish (m), Lisa Wood

Make & Trade Artist Cards — 1hr — Fast Track 2

We'll find out what artist trading cards are, make some, and trade around! Artist trading cards. 2.5" x 3.5", you decorate them any way you want, and then swap with other artists. Mimi Noyes

Trailer Park — 2hr — Molly Pitcher

Everybody's favorite event! Two hours of trailers for movies you love, movies you hate, and movies you've never heard of!

Reading the Classics — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Modern SF and fantasy rock, but there are decades worth of wonderful older SF/F that you've yet to discover. Which classics deserve a read, and why? Terry Franklin, Peter Maranci (m), Michael Sharrow, Liz Cademy Pfeffer

Coming Out Stories — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Coming out of the closet is not an easy decision or process, regardless of whether you are coming out as LGBT, poly, kinky, pagan or Republican. Come share stories and advice on how and whether to come out to family, friends and/or co-workers. Jonathan Woodward (m), Bey Woodward, Jennifer Williams, Lawrence Nelson, Melissa Gavazzi

Coming to a Theater Near You? — 1hr — Prefunction BC

From "The Day the Earth Stood Still" to "Lord of the Rings," Hollywood has turned to our literature for inspiration. Sometimes you get "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," and sometimes an abomination like "Nightfall" or "Damnation Alley." What books would you like brought to the screen next? And what are you dreading? Solomon Davidoff (m), Eric M. Van, Ken Kingsgrave-Ernstein

Buffy the Vampire Slayer Sing-Along — 1hr — President's CD

The Family Friendly version of Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Sing-Along Glenn MacWilliams

MASSFILC Meeting — 30min — Room 201

Monthly business meeting for MASSFILC (www.massfilc.org), a club that hosts monthly filk sings, publishes song books, and will be hosting ConCertino, the 2009 Northeast Floating Filk Convention. The meeting is open to all. Joseph Kesselman

Criss-crossing Genres — 1hr — Room 204

It's a fantasy with romance and a corpse and no vampires and a spaceship and a dog but no pony. So where in the store does this book go? From fantasy westerns to supernatural horror romance what makes a good cross-genre story? How does it work? Why does it work? Gordon Linzner (m), Shira Lipkin, Catherynne Valente, Hildy Silverman, Alisa Kwitney Sheckley

Relationships 101 — 1hr — William Dawes A

Whether you are young or old; mono or poly; gay, straight or bi, the keys to happy, healthy relationship are similar. What are the secrets to good relationships? Learn about ways to make your relationship better. Don Sakers, Michelle Wexelblat (m), Elizabeth McCoy, Sarah Sloane, Michelle Driscoll

Secret Societies in Fiction — 1hr — William Dawes B

Are fictional secret societies believable? Can real world organizations ever live up to the hype of their fictionalized counterparts? What role do secret societies play in the genre? Martha H. Adams, Mark "Justin" Waks, Inanna Arthen, Adrianne Brennan


Sunday 7:00 PM

It's a MMORPG Life For Us — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORPGs) are growing at an exponential rate. Being a new to them can be overwhelming. How to get started, how to avoid common n00b mistakes, which one would fit you best. Elizabeth McCoy (m), Bill Levay

The Science of Heroes — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

The real-life possibilities behind the hit TV show! Ordinary people with extraordinary powers populate the world of the hit television show Heroes, where characters exhibit such abilities as flight, telepathy, tissue regeneration, prognostication, invisibility, and teleportation through space and time. The Science of Heroes explores these superpowers and many more through real-world research into the potential of human physical and mental capabilities. Vonnie Carts-Powell

Follow Your Dream — 1hr — Fast Track 1

You can be anything you want to be, they say—but how do you plan to get there? Liz Cademy Pfeffer, Evonne Heyning (m)

Kid's LARP — 3hr — Fast Track 2

What's a LARP? We'll find out, then do one. Josh "blee" Rachlin, Stephen R. Balzac

Terry Pratchett—The Colour of Magic — 3hr — Haym Solomon

In two parts, The Fabric of Magic unravels and Fantasy ensues. 97min & 93min PG

Canon, Schmanon — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Wait, what? Peter and Mary Jane were never married? "One More Day" is just the latest in a long line of creators meddling with comics canon to make the changes they want—whether the changes fit the character or not. Is this ever truly justifiable? Israel Peskowitz, Ed Fuqua (m), Woodrow Hill, Melissa Gavazzi

Art and Illness — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Many artists struggle with chronic illness or other debilitating health problems. How do you balance creativity and the demands of a less-than-perfect body? What do you do when your muse says "let's stay up all night and work on this great idea!" and your body says "you need to go to bed RIGHT NOW!"? Has chronic pain or illness affected your ability to physically do your work as an artist, writer, or craftsperson? Mimi Noyes, Mercy E. Van Vlack, Shira Lipkin (m), Shava Nerad

Hollywood's Favorite SF Writer — 1hr — Prefunction BC

40 years ago it might have been Jules Verne or H. G. Wells. Today there's no question that it's the late, great Philip K. Dick who died shortly before the release of "Blade Runner." Since then we're seen "Minority Report," "Total Recall," "Next," "Screamers," "Imposter," "Paycheck" and "A Scanner Darkly." More are on the way. Why has Hollywood embraced PKD even as they ignore other giants on the bookshelf? Which of the films have been most successful? Most faithful? Eric M. Van (m), Garen Daly, Michael Sharrow, Tim Lieder

"No sh*t, there I was!": Oral Storytelling — 1hr — Room 201

More and more oral storytelling activities are popping up: the "radio theater" performance, author readings, and panels where the majority of the time is spent with panelists and audience members recounting their experiences. What makes a good oral story presentation? Joseph Kesselman, Eric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman

The Best Indie Comics You're Not Reading — 1hr — Room 204

Is your comics knowledge limited to the Big Three? Come to this panel and hear about all of the indie comics you never knew existed! Mario di Giacomo, Mark "Justin" Waks, Cathy Leamy, Jaime Garmendia (m), Charles Schneeflock Snow

Dexter and the Nature of Evil — 1hr — William Dawes A

Showtime's brilliant Dexter features a serial killer who kills only the worst people. What does the show say about the nature of good and evil? How does it mesh with our best understanding of human psychology? Lisa Adler-Golden, Resa Nelson, Jennifer Williams (m), Robert Hafner

The Legacy of Gary Gygax — 1hr — William Dawes B

Gary Gygax failed his last saving throw on March 4, 2008. Come celebrate his life, accomplishments and legendary influence on gamers everywhere. Arnis Kletnieks (m), Jonathan Woodward, Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Ken Gale, Michael Bonet, Daniel Miller


Sunday 8:00 PM

From K-9 to Pixel: Pets in Fandom — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Pets make frequent appearances in SF/F and the homes of fen. Come share stories about your favorite pets, whether they are in your books or in your home. James A. Wolf, Toni Lay (m), Trisha Wooldridge

Relationships 101 — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

How do you start, continue, and end a relationship? How do you know it's time to end a relationship? Michael Whitehouse, Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Aimee Yermish (m)

Germs: Up Close and Personal — 1hr — Fast Track 1

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. Dr. James Prego

History of the Automobile — 10min — Molly Pitcher

a short film describing the evolution of transportation in a parallel universe. 16mm, 6 min.

Forming a Musical Group — 1hr — Paul Revere A

What does it take to form a musical group? What are the pros and cons of a performing group vs. going solo? How do you form a group? Do you audition people or ask people you know? What if someone isn't working out? What if your group becomes the next hottest thing? What if…? Catherine Asaro, Heather Munn (m), Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein

British SF on TV — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Cable and DVDs have allowed a lot of series to cross the pond and build fan bases in the US: Sarah Jane Chronicles, Dr. Who, Torchwood, Primeval, Life on Mars. What's hot and what's still under the radar? Is there a way to get the word out to more potential fans? Terri Osborne, Lance C. Oszko, Michael D. Pederson (m), Randee Dawn

Too Many Chainsaws — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Tobe Hooper's 1974 horror film was a shocker, but it has now spawned three sequels, a remake, and a prequel. How many films do we need about teenagers being sliced and diced by power tools? And with the success of the "Saw" series and "Hostel," is splatterpunk the new language of horror movies? Resa Nelson, Tim Lieder, Adam Lipkin (m)

Steampunk Historical Dance — 3hr — President's CD

Steampunk Themed Historical Dance

Reluctant Heroes — 1hr — Room 201

Why do we like TV shows about reluctant heroes? Gwen Cooper in "Torchwood", the crew of "Firefly", Claire from "Heroes". What about their heroic reticence appeals to us over the bold and brave heroes? Thomas F. Restivo, Cynthia A. Shettle

Create a Villain Workshop — 1hr — Room 204

Brainstorm with our panelists to create the best, the most evil and most unstoppable villain of SF, fantasy and horror! Gordon Linzner, KT Pinto (m), Mario di Giacomo, Michael Sharrow

Science Fiction About "Touchy" Subjects — 1hr — William Dawes A

SF 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? Phoebe Wray, Jennifer Pelland, Ken Kingsgrave-Ernstein (m), Catherynne Valente

Poly 175: Is This For Me? — 1hr — William Dawes B

So there's monogamy on one side of the relationship spectrum and polyamory on the other, and never the twain shall meet. But is it that simple? Is there a middle ground? Monogamy isn't for everyone, but neither is polyamory, so how do you tell which is right for you? Can a poly person and a mono person have a successful relationship together? Karl G. Heinemann (m), Jennifer Williams, , Sarah Sloane, Ian Cooper Rose

Repo: the Genetic Opera — 8:10 PM, 1hr 50min — Molly Pitcher

This is a fantasy horror musical about a world in which medical insurance is nonexistent and where if you take out a loan for an organ transplant, you'd better make sure you can pay it. Cindy says, "Take painkillers first." It's silly, it's horrible, it's a musical with real bel canto opera singing, Anthony Stewart Head, and Paris Hilton. How can you go wrong? 35mm, 1 hr. 38 min


Sunday 9:00 PM

Sexy or Sexist — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

What 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? Catherine Asaro, Mercy E. Van Vlack (m), , Jacqueline Kessler

Getting Ideas Going in Costuming — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

Sometimes making the costume itself is easy, but getting the idea in the first place is stumping you. How do costumers get ideas,sources and imagination, and how does that concept evolve to its completion? Kristina Finan, Nightwing Whitehead, James Hinsey, Sara M. Harvey, (m)

In Space, No One Can Hear You Scream — 1hr — Paul Revere A

It's 30 years since Ridley Scott scared the living daylights out of us with "Alien." Was it just a haunted house story set in space? Was there anything to admire beyond the goo and gore? Is Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) still a heroine for the ages? Let's take a look at a key SF film (and its sequels and ripoffs) and see why this one still causes nightmares. James Zavaglia, Resa Nelson, Michael D. Pederson, Adam Lipkin (m), Randee Dawn

Body Modification: From Past to Future — 1hr — Paul Revere B

At one time, tattoos and body piercings were considered extreme and edgy. What about the next generation of body modifications that will incorporate technology? From cell phones implanted in teeth to digital tattoos implanted beneath the skin, where will the path of self-modification go? Many of these things are currently in the conceptual stage, but in 20 years they could be as ubiquitous as email or iPods. When implanted devices become mainstream, what will become the new edge? Jennifer Pelland, David Larochelle, Lee Harrington (m), Dr. James Prego, Cassie Olewinski

Costuming With and For Dolls — 1hr — Prefunction BC

"The greatest thing about dolls is making an outfit in a day and using so much less fabric!" Hear from costumers and doll enthusiasts who love to costume,in miniature! Dawn Albright (m),

Walk the Labyrinth — 2hr — President's AB

Take a long walk in a small space. 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. Jude Shabry

Misanthropes: Why We Love Them — 1hr — Room 201

Misanthropic characters can exert a powerful draw on us. Is it just the rebel outsider mystique, or is that they get away with the things we'd like to do? Are they just reluctant heroes who whine more? How much are they reflections of their authors? Do characters have to be likable for us to like them? Gordon Linzner (m), Thomas F. Restivo, KT Pinto, Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein

Sci-fi Film Scores — 1hr — Room 204

Film scores play a major role in setting the tone for a movie; the use (or misuse) of music can make or break a film. Eric M. Van, Inanna Arthen (m)

BDSM and Geeks — 1hr — William Dawes A

A sizable percentage of geeks seem to enjoy BDSM. If that is true, why might that be? What is it about one subculture that draws people to the other, and vice versa? David C. Kaplowitz, Ed Fuqua, Lawrence Nelson, Ken Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Jaime Garmendia (m)

I Can Go to Jail for THAT?! — 1hr — William Dawes B

Can I carry my authentic katana on the train on my way to the Con? Is my realistic-looking steampunk pistol illegal? If the police see my whip sticking out of my toy bag in the back seat, can I get in trouble? Come find out the answers, and bring questions of your own. A. Joseph Ross, Lisa J. Steele, Thomas Traina, Aimee Bouchard (m)


Sunday 10:00 PM

OMG Worst Book Ever! — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Not sure why you ever finished that book and need someone to share the pain with? At this lighthearted late night panel, we'll talk about some of the worst books ever and why you had to suffer through them. Genevieve Iseult Eldredge (m), Tim Lieder, Vikki Rose

PowerPoint Karaoke — 1hr — Crispus Attucks

If you've ever been stuck in a meeting where a hapless presenter is reading every single word on every slide, exorcise those bad memories with a bout of improvisational humor. See our panelists winging it on stage, presenting randomly juxtaposed slides they've never seen before! Hear the absurdity! Feel the laughter! Michael Whitehouse, Susan Weiner, Eric "in the Elevator" Zuckerman (m)

Beowulf & Grendel — 2hr — Haym Solomon

From Iceland. Epic Saxon Violence in leather and hand woven cloth. 100 min R

The Singularity: The SF Rapture — 1hr — Paul Revere A

The Singularity, the term first coined by Vernor Vinge, is a theoretical future point of unprecedented technological progress. It is a scientific and cultural flash point which is supposed to produce, among other things, self-programming artificial intelligences. It plays a major role in several stories including Vinge's "A Fire Upon the Deep" and Greg Bear's "Blood Music". Is it just a convenient plot device for stories? An examination of the Singularity in SF literature. David Larochelle (m), Christopher Weuve

Religious Icons in the World of Anime — 1hr — Paul Revere B

From the apocalyptic overtones of The Big O to the fight for souls of Kamikaze Kaitou Jeanne, why are there so many anime films with Christian themes and symbols? What is it about western religions, specifically Christianity that has anime writers and directors exploring them again and again? Do these themes have the same meaning in Japan as they do here? Israel Peskowitz, Mary McConnell Dumas (m), Starwolf

Goth Fans: Beyond the Black — 1hr — Room 201

Goth subculture has been around for decades, and from the beginning, fans have been involved. What attracts people to it? Is it still just a fad? Can we define what makes someone "goth", or is that very idea antithetical to the culture? KT Pinto (m), Bill Pomeroy, Catt Kingsgrave-Ernstein, Jaime Garmendia, Dr. James Prego

Raising the Next Generation — 1hr — William Dawes A

How do you introduce your kids to SF/F? What do you do if they're (gasp!!) not interested? How can you help them navigate between the worlds of fandom and the mundane? What if you're a fan and your spouse is not? There are all sorts of challenges (and rewards!) to raising a child in fandom. Let's discuss! James A. Wolf, Lisa Wood (m), Liz Cademy Pfeffer

Home Depot in the Bedroom — 1hr — William Dawes B

Home 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. 18+ only. Scott Lefton, David C. Kaplowitz (m), Lawrence Nelson, Ian Cooper Rose


Sunday 11:00 PM

Filking Into the Night—Open Filking — 8hr — Crispus Attucks

Hear filk in its native environment! Make music happen. Sing! Play! Clap hands! Listen! Join the merriment! No experience necessary.

Rock Band on the Big Screen — 2hr — President's AB

The PS2 game live on the big screen Glenn MacWilliams


Monday 12:00 AM

District 13 — 1hr — Haym Solomon

From France. Let's detonate a neutron bombe in Paris. Only Stuntmen were injured. 85 minutes R

Contact! (X-rated) — 1hr — Molly Pitcher

Do you remember the 1970s when you could go into a movie theatre and see fine quality pornography with a huge audience? Chip Delaney does,and he talks about seeing just this movie. Now you can have the same experience, but only if you are 18 years or older and have identification available when the doors open. This fine X-rated film stars Renee Bond which alone makes it worth the price of admission. Approximately 1 hour, In Eastman 16mm

Buffy the Vampire Slayer R-rated Sing-Along — 1hr — President's CD

The more ADULT rated version of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Sing-Along

Open Gaming — 16hr — Thomas Paine AB

Unscheduled gaming. Awesome! James Pinkerton


Monday 1:00 AM

Le Portrait de Petite Cossette — 2hr — Haym Solomon

Eiri, works in an antique shop in a quiet part of town. One afternoon, he uncovers a delicate Venetian glass holding a startling secret within. When Eiri peers into the glass, he can see a young blond girl, her life playing out like a movie solely for him to see. Curious, he stares into the glass, hoping to learn more about the enchanting girl inside. This is Cossette, a mysterious beauty haunting the glass, waiting 250 years for someone to finally see her, and set her free. Mary McConnell Dumas


Monday 3:00 AM

Ergo Proxy — 2hr — Haym Solomon

The domed city of Romd is an impenetrable would-be utopia where humans and robots coexist, and everything is under complete government control, or so it appears. While working on a mysterious murder case, Re-l Mayer, a female detective from the Civilian Intelligence Office, receives a foreboding message that something is going to awaken. Mary McConnell Dumas


Monday 5:00 AM

X/1999 (10 years later) Eps. 0–4 — 2hr — Haym Solomon

Two groups of supernaturually powered warriors begin a prophetic battle to shape the future—a clash that will rock the foundations of the planet! The Seven Dragons of Earth swear to purge humanity from the world, while the Seven Dragons of Heaven are the last hope of all mankind. One young man holds the key to Earth's destiny—but to choose the side of good, he may spell doom for all creation. Mary McConnell Dumas


Monday 7:00 AM

Tsubasa Vol. 1: Gathering of Fates — 1hr — Haym Solomon

The fates shine upon young archaeologist Syaoran and his love, the Sakura. As the moon hovers silently above the kingdom a beautiful and otherworldly sound fills the air, drawing the princess to the ancient ruins. Her latent powers stir, awakening an ability to cross dimensions. But the process is interrupted as unseen forces conspire to claim this magic as their own. Mary McConnell Dumas

Cartoons and Cereal — 2hr — President's CD

The finale of the Cartoons and Cereal meetings of like minded fans.


Monday 9:00 AM

Hello Kitty Stump Village — 1hr — Haym Solomon

Claymation Hello Kitty and all her friends Mary McConnell Dumas

Stretch like a Shaolin: Kung-Fu Morning Warm Up — 1hr — President's CD

This is a simple morning stretch and warm-up in a kinder and gentler Shao-lin style. Wear loose clothing and bring a water bottle and a towel to cushion you. Suitable for all ages. No bones will be broken. Bill Yerazunis


Monday 10:00 AM

The Physics of Fabric — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Why fabric slithers and creeps, and how you can control it; why ?" plus ?" does not equal 1"; what is the wrong side, what is the right side, and what is a warp? Keeping with the Arisia theme "Fabric of Space & Time", stories from the parallel universe of the sewing room. Kristina Finan, Nightwing Whitehead (m), James Hinsey

Farewell to Phoenix — 1hr — Fast Track 1

By Arisia, Phoenix may be at the end of its life. We'll have a good bye party and talk about what Phoenix learned about the North Pole of Mars. Steven Hammond

Share Your Fave Books — 1hr — Fast Track 2

What was your favorite book you've read, and why? Roxanne Reddington-Wilde, Peter Prellwitz

The Thief Lord — 2hr — Haym Solomon

From UK/Italy. The Magic and Romance of Venice 98 Minutes PG

Psychoanalysis of the Superhero — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Clark Kent's secret identity, Peter Parker's private life, The Incredibles' family life, Alfred as Batman's enabler: is this a form of commentary on everyday life, a form of reverse escapism, an exploration of the darker sides of our own personalities? Cynthia A. Shettle, Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Martha H. Adams (m), Howard G. Beatman

Golden Age Authors — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Many of the greatest genre writers can no longer be found on bookstore shelves; giants such Roger Zelazny, Fredric Brown, and Cordwainer Smith have vanished. Modern authors rehash classic themes and get taken as the originators. Tips and suggestions for younger/newer readers on buried treasures from long ago. John H. Costello, Ken Gale, Wil Howitt, Peter Maranci (m)

Super Gods Band — 2hr — President's CD

Giving everyone an opportunity to work out the last of their fan feelings as the band plays on. Not the Titanic.

Child-Safe Anime — 1hr — Room 204

Finding anime that is safe for children to watch may be difficult for parents. Learn more about selecting child-friendly popular series and hidden gems! Mary McConnell Dumas, Katherine Pfeffer (m)

Ticket to Ride: Europe—table top game — 1hr — Thomas Paine AB

Like the original Ticket to Ride, the game remains elegantly simple, can be learned in 5 minutes, and appeals to both families and experienced gamers. Brennan Martin

The Perils of Looking Up From the Keyboard — 1hr — William Dawes A

Finding out what everyone else thinks of what you've written is easier than ever but not always a good idea. The panel discusses the perils of ego-Googling, reader reviews, and being aware of the world beyond your office. Gordon Linzner (m), Jennifer Pelland, Jacqueline Kessler

Humor in SF&F: Is It Really That Funny? — 1hr — William Dawes B

Is humor in science fiction and fantasy too strained or self-referential to be funny outside fandom? It's said that dying is easy, comedy is hard. Is it harder in genre stories? Discuss the failures (Xanth) and the successes (Discworld). Mario di Giacomo, Michael Sharrow, Michael D. Pederson (m)


Monday 11:00 AM

Fandom and Personal Interaction — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

How do you politely get someone out of your personal space? How do you penetrate the SEP field to help someone who looks uncomfortable? How do you avoid falling into the Geek Social Fallacies? Come to this workshop to hone your skills! Michelle Wexelblat (m), David Larochelle, Hugh Casey, Michael Bonet

South Polar Express — 1hr — Fast Track 1

It is the International Polar Year and to celebrate we're going to show you what its like to work as a scientist in Antarctica. We'll show some videos from McMurdo station and do some hands on activities about temperature. Steven Hammond

Monday Un-Structured Supervised Play — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Monday, Indoor voices please

Sports for Geeks — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Sports aren't just for jocks anymore. Ultimate Frisbee has been joined by disk golf, curling, dodge ball, geocaching and numerous other "geeky" sports. And let's not forget the local softball league! Come talk about some of your personal favorites. Jude Shabry (m), Genevieve Iseult Eldredge, Anna R. Bradley, Jeff Warner, Ian Cooper Rose

Science on the Big Screen — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Movies 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? Ian Randal Strock, Elizabeth Kelly, Mitchell Morris (m)

Design Track 4: Artwork — 1hr — Room 201

Part 4 of a 4-part, linked creative series of panels: The Artist Guest of Honor creates artwork that relates to the developed characters and themes from Parts 1, 2, and 3 Attendance at all 4 panels encouraged but not required. David R. Seeley, Peter Prellwitz

Vampires in 21th Century Fiction — 1hr — William Dawes A

From Dracula to Interview with the Vampire to Buffy, we have seen major changes in our perceptions of vampires. We'll be discussing the evolving role of vampire from 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? KT Pinto, Jennifer Williams, Ed Fuqua, Inanna Arthen (m), Adrianne Brennan

Abby Normal — 1hr — William Dawes B

The 35th anniversary of the Mel Brooks spoof "Young Frankenstein" is a good excuse to look at movies that treat science fiction, fantasy, and horror not with reverence, but for laughs. How difficult is it to balance the genre with the comedy? Movies like "Galaxy Quest" and "The Princess Bride" get it right, while recent spoofs like "Epic Movie" get it horribly wrong. Do you have to love the genre to laugh at it? James Zavaglia, Nomi S. Burstein (m), Daniel M. Kimmel, Garen Daly, Daniel Miller

Ideality in HD. — 11:45 AM, 1hr — Haym Solomon

Shape reality to your heart's desire.


Monday 12:00 PM

The Appeal of Evil — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Explore 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? KT Pinto (m), Michael Sharrow, Hildy Silverman, Trisha Wooldridge

Beyond Hogwarts: A Young Fan's Reading List — 1hr — Fast Track 1

What is out there for kids that doesn't insult the intelligence, but also doesn't fly over the heads faster than a Firebolt? Don Sakers, Greer Gilman, Walter H. Hunt, Peter Maranci (m), Sonya Taaffe

Grok, Hobbit! — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Does inventing words for a story help the author create a foreign setting, or does it place a barrier between the author and the readers? How do writers explain the alien words without turning the story into a dictionary entry? Which of these made up of words have made their way into our language? Nomi S. Burstein (m), Catherynne Valente, Michael Kabongo, Vikki Rose, Jacqueline Kessler

Politics in Comics — 1hr — Paul Revere B

For the first time, presidential candidates are appearing in comics (Savage Dragon endorsed Obama!). And DC has a roster of candidates of its own. As heroes endorse candidates, teams and alliances fracture. What does political maneuvering do to the world of comics? Michael A. Burstein (m), Woodrow Hill, Daniel Miller

Convention Feedback III — 1hr — Prefunction BC

Tell us what went right and make suggestions for next year. Buzz Harris (m), Richard Kovalcik, Jill Eastlake

Better Massage Techniques — 1hr — Room 201

Everybody likes a good backrub. And everybody can be better at doing one. Come learn massage techniques that would be helpful in a respectful environment that focuses on the therapeutic rather than sensual aspects of massage. Stephen R. Balzac, Cassie Olewinski (m)

Schools of the Future — 1hr — Room 204

Science Fiction Writers have often written about changes that technology might make to education, from the students' "desks" in Orson Scott Cards "Enders' Game" to R.A. Heinlein's observations and critiques of education in his Juvenile Fiction. What kinds of alternate education exist now? How does emerging technology affect the learners and teachers of tomorrow? Will homeschooling become more popular as technology makes it easier? Catherine Asaro, David Larochelle, Liz Cademy Pfeffer, Karen Sullivan (m)

Is the Singularity Really Around the Corner? — 1hr — William Dawes A

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? Thomas Easton (m), Arnis Kletnieks, Wil Howitt, Richard Stallman, Mark L. Van Name

Why so Serious? — 1hr — William Dawes B

Heath Ledger's mesmerizing portrayal of the Joker utterly stole the show from the Dark Knight and Two-Face, giving us one of the best comic-book movies ever. Did Ledger's death overshadow the movie and Eckhart's amazing transformation? How does the movie fit with comics canon? Where will they go from here? Genevieve Iseult Eldredge (m), Tim Lieder, Peter Prellwitz, Melissa Gavazzi


Monday 12:30 PM

The Restless — 1hr 45min — Haym Solomon

From China. A mortal slips thru a tear between Earth and Heaven. Hell and romance break loose. 105 minutes PG-13


Monday 1:00 PM

Harry Potter: The Movies vs the Books — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Why must the movies be, in some cases, so different from the books? Why not do an extended versions like in Lord Of The Rings? A discussion on what's been cut and modified and why. Daniel M. Kimmel, Resa Nelson, Michael D. Pederson (m)

My Parent is a SMOF — 1hr — Fast Track 1

What's it like to have a parent who's always off running conventions? Do you have any behind-the-scenes stories to tell? Liz Cademy Pfeffer

Hammers, Lasers, Mirrors Gaming Session — 1hr — Fast Track 2

Another gaming session just for kids brought to you by the game designers Mitchell Morris

YA SciFi and Fantasy — 1hr — Paul Revere A

Come discuss your favorite fantasy and SF, classic or modern! Peter Maranci, Ed Fuqua (m), Elayna Jade Smolowitz

Your Fandom Origin Story — 1hr — Paul Revere B

How did you get here? Is it Roddenberry's fault? Or Lucas's? Did you cut your teeth on Bilbo or Buffy? Come share how you got into fandom, and what kept you here. Nomi S. Burstein, James A. Wolf, Jennifer Williams (m), Jeff Warner

Intellectual Property Rights — 1hr — Room 204

What is the state of intellectual property rights and where are they going? Groups such as Creative Commons and the Electronic Frontier Foundation have fought for less restrictive controls. On the other side, corporations have lobbied Congress to extend the length of copyright over and over again. Has any progress been made to put the power of copyright back into the hands of the author or return properties to the public domain? Is there a middle ground? Thomas Easton, Thomas Traina, Inanna Arthen (m), Daniel Miller

Twenty SF Books To Read Before You Die — 1hr — William Dawes A

What are the most classic, seminal books in science fiction, the ones that both broke new ground and are literary masterpieces? Are they still worth reading? What are the classics that you still absolutely HAVE to read? Terry Franklin, Walter H. Hunt, Eric M. Van (m), Trisha Wooldridge

What is Wicca? — 1hr — William Dawes B

Wicca is a nature-based religion whose modern origins date back several decades. But what is it really about? How does it work? Come find out what Wicca is all about and separate fact from fiction in this tutorial and ritual demonstration. Lorraine Savage, Lisa Wood (m), Starwolf


Monday 2:00 PM

This is the Way the World Ends — 1hr — BU Suite (Regency Club)

Post-apocalyptic fiction has been back in the public eye again. From Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" to Jeanne DuPrau's "The City of Ember" stories about a world that has passed on are more popular than ever. What draws us to these stories? What makes them so powerful? Terry Franklin, T. Christopher Davis, Jennifer Williams (m)

Dead Dog Filk — 4hr — Crispus Attucks

Even after most of the programming has ended, open filking continues. (But please, help with breakdown first if you are able.)

Good Guys Wear Black: The Villain as Protagonist — 1hr — Paul Revere B

Many well-known stories have the humble hero strive and struggle ultimately to defeat the horrible villain in the end. But what if that's not the real story? Austin Grossman's "Soon I Will Be Invincible" supervillain Dr. Impossible, Glen Cook's "The Black Company" and the witch from Gregory Maguire's "Wicked" are just a few examples. Things seem different once you see things from their point of view. Come discuss the value of stories where you get to cheer for the bad guys. Cynthia A. Shettle, KT Pinto (m), Shira Lipkin, Vikki Rose, Jacqueline Kessler

I Can Haz Panel? — 1hr — William Dawes A

Lolcats, love 'em or hate 'em, are here to stay. The lolcats phenomenon has spread to dogs, politics and even porn. What is it about lolcats and its imitators that we love so much? Why do so many fen TALK that way, too? Michael Whitehouse (m), James A. Wolf, Noel Rosenberg