HPEF presents Infinitus 2010

Ascendio Updates

heidi8 — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 02:45:26 GMT

Hi all! We're working on plans for our next event - ascendio2012 which, as you may know, is taking place back at Universal Orlando (this time at the Portofino Bay Resort) from July 12 - 15.

Just to let you know about a few upcoming developments:

1. The deadline for formal programming submissions is February 29; as always, the wonderful programming you want to attend is totally and completely in your hands. We welcome proposals from every types of attendee — academics, shippers, crafters, artists, cos-players, fanfic writers, WizardRock artists & fans, authors and more! If you’re ready to submit your proposal, you can do so here – or keep reading this page to learn more about the types of programming sessions we hope to host at Ascendio, and how to submit your proposal.

As at past HPEF events, almost all of our formal programming sessions are attendee-generated, which means that we ask you, the Ascendio attendee, to host discussions, lead round tables, and, if your academic or fannish interests lie in that direction, even present a paper about a specific Harry Potter-focused or -inspired topic. Past programming sessions have included Creating a Byronic Hero: Severus Snape and the Gothic Fathers of Harry Potter; Creating Without Canon: Writing Next-Gen Fanfic; Norm-Formation, Inconsistency and the Rule of Law in the Wizarding World; When Fans Become Activists, and more. Click here for more info, and to see how to submit this year.

2. Special Guests already announced for Ascendio include returning guests Chris Rankin and Lev Grossman, as well as a bunch of members of Team StarKid - and we welcome Veronica Roth, Aimee Carter, Beth Revis, Mark Oshiro (aka MarkReads), Michelle Hodkin, Veronica Roth, Kaza Kingsley agents Carlie Webber, Lindsay Ribar, Joanna Volpe and editor Molly O’Neill, as well as the Hindi sisters from The Hillywood Show.

3. We're going back to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on July 12 until 1:00 in the morning! More information is here.

4. Ascendio seeks talented singers and musicians to help assemble a program of music inspired by Harry Potter. Here is your chance to perform your favourite Wizard Rock song, create an original dance with HP music, present a short theatrical sketch of HP-inspired material, or put together an ensemble of “Double Double” complete with croaking frogs! Click here to learn how to audition!

The hotel is almost full (and with a rate of $210+tax per night for quad occupancy, where each hotel guest gets early admission to the WWoHP and Express Line passes on most rides, we can understand why) but Ascendio registrations will be available through the spring, and we hope to see you there!

Visit the website, follow us on Twitter or Like us on Facebook to stay up to date with all our news - and Friend us at ascendio2012! See you in July!

Ascendio Meet-Ups during LeakyCon and Dragon*Con

heidi8 — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:20:16 GMT

Ascendio would love to meet you this summer, as we gear up for an amazing evemt at Universal Orlando from July 12-15, 2012.

if you're coming to LeakyCon or live in or near Orlando, and want to learn more about Ascendio, register, meet some of the con team or be thanked for registering, join us at Jake's American Bar on the groud floor of the Royal Pacific on Friday, July 15 from 3:30-5 for margaritas and nibbles. If you can't make it then, we'll be sticking around a little later than that, and hanging out in the Orchid Court late Saturday afternoon, too.

You don't have to be registered for LeakyCon - or already registered for Ascendio - to stop by and say hi to us - and in September, we'll be at Dragon*Con, too, with some fan table and bar-side festivities! More info about location/dates coming next month.

See you there!

Bill/Fleur Wedding?

missyandalice — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 18:01:54 GMT

I heard that someone did a cosplay (second) wedding at Infinitus... dressed as Bill and Fleur. It's been a dream of mine to do a Hogwarts Wedding... either as Lily and James or Ginny and Harry, since my husband and I have the right colorings. (I've got red hair, he has dark hair and glasses...)

I'd love to hear more about how the cosplay wedding went, and maybe see some pictures? I'd LOVE to do something like this, and would love any tips/hints/etc! (And if you've had one of these on your own, not at a con, please feel free to comment, too!)

Thanks!
Missy

vinyldisco — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:54:55 GMT

Hey everyone! I'm hoping someone here can help me out. I lost my sheet with contact info, and I met up with some awesome people. Three of whom were at the Marauders Meetup - we were talking about RP. One of them was Melissa and she was with her friend who loved James Potter (I apologize for forgetting your name!). I can't find your email anywhere! And another person was Teddy who was trying to pitch Vault 713 to me. If anyone knows who I'm talking about please direct me to them? Or hopefully they're watching this comm. Thanks!

Tina

Plant Signs

shaebay — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:36:46 GMT

If you noticed the plants around the hall areas and in the Herbology class room (which I think was Pacifica 11?), they all had little signs on them. Posting these just in case you didn't get to read them all and wanted to (also I know that I ended up writing more than the number of plants, so I think one or two of them never got posted). :D

The Nigel Tree

Commonly mistaken for an average, non-magical plant, the nudis interruptus' actual nature wasn't revealed until May of 2006. The magical properties of the plan were revealed completely by mistake by the famous model and nudist Nigel (yes, that Nigel). Nigel the Nude was doing a photoshoot for a special nature edition of Wicked Witch Magazine and just as the camera was taking the photo, the plant's branches moved to cover Nigel's private area. A local plant expert had been supervising the shoot (to avoid another venomous plant incident), and several more photos were taken with the plant to see the effects that it had on clothed and unclothed persons. Only those without clothing were shielded during the photo. According to top Herbologists, this tree has been around for several centuries, but its magical properties were hidden until that unfortunate event. Much to his dismay, Nigel the Nude has now been printed in more scientific journals than modeling magazines.

The Welcoming Tree

The Welcoming Tree, also known as the Hospitalitree to some, is a necessity for those that regularly throw parties. This specimen can make even the shyest person feel more secure in social situations. A popular wizards club, The Loquacious Lady, has at least 10 of these trees. The tree itself is very hard to grow and maintain so unless a party is thrown once per week the plant will wither and die. It can be taken apart and stored for potion making, which makes the Hospitalitree a popular ingredient in social and anxiousness recipes.

Neo Porin Plant

While not usually seen outside of an apothecary or medical greenhouse, the Neo Porin Plant has been known to be held by private potion makers and wizards unaware of the value. On a weekly basis it can be milked, for lack of a better term, for a healing ointment. While the plant has been around for as long as wizarding plant records, the common name comes from Neolonen Porin, a swindler and scam artist who milked a plant dry (if the Neo Porin Plant's ointment is fully milked out, it will only produce one drop of ointment per week) and sold it to a medical company that uses it as the active ingredient in a very slow-acting ointment that aids in the healing of wounds. The magical community felt that it would be a great injustice to rob the muggles of the ointment, so they were allowed to keep the dying plant.

Fire Bringer Plant

Extreme caution must be used while in contact with this plant. It was the cause of the Santiago Canyon Fire, the Cedar Fire, and the Chipmunk Fire of 79. The ardcalif dysphyte is primarily in North America, and was discovered by a group of North American wizards (Names withheld due to the illegality of their actions). The thrillseeking young wizards were hiking through the wilderness during the time of the Full Moon with the hopes of seeing a werewolf. One or more of the wizards were frightened and the Fire Bringer plant burst into flames. Using a quick Auguamenti spell the youths put out the fire, berating another for his clumsy accidental spell work. The plant burst into flames again, and the group decided to investigate it instead of blaming a friend. After testing at The Salem Witch's Institute (home of one of the top five Greenhouses in the world), it was revealed that the plant burst into flames when a nervous, frightened, or anxious person was around.

The Stink Flower

Most often this plant is completely average looking, but on nights of the full moon it transforms into what experts call "The Stink Flower." This putrid bloom relies on werewolves for pollination. Many studies have been proposed on this flower, but the odor permeates every protection and is resistant to magic. Before stronger werewolf laws came into effect, many werewolves set buckets around their properties so when they eventually came stumbling home, they would have something to puke into. The smell has been known to cling to a person for a period of 3 weeks.

Ruffner’s Sweet

Developed in 1658 by acclaimed herbologist WM Ruffner as a way to show his grandchildren that Herbology should not be seen as simply playing in the dirt, Ruffner set out to create a plant that had sweet, edible leaves in order to tempt them to visit more often. After 30 years of work, he finally finished the plant just in time to share with his great grandchildren.

Note: This plant is identical to Ruffner's Boot, please use caution before eating. Also, please be aware that pranksters revel in switching the placards between the Sweet and Boot varieties of the plant.

Ruffner’s Boot

An accidental by-product of WM Ruffner's famous plant Ruffner's Sweet. As the results of experimental herbology can never be predicted, it was not surprising when an equally bad tasting plant was created. Instead of being a delicious cooked sugar of the sweet variation, this strain of plant carries the taste of old, dirty boot. Wilfred Merlin Ruffner spent the last years of his life attempting to grow boot shaped branches on Ruffner's Boot to prevent it from being identical to Ruffner's Sweet.

Note: This plant is identical to Ruffner's Sweet, but it is not suitable for tasting. Also, please be aware that pranksters revel in switching the placards between the Sweet and Boot varieties of the plant.

Goat Fancy

A nice robust plant that attracts goats. Goats love to munch on every part of this plant, and are even known to roll around in the dirt surrounding it. Experienced plant growers know not to plant Goat Fancy anywhere near more edible plants. The largest collection of Goat Fancy has been recorded as being in Hogsmeade and tended by Aberforth Dumbledore, owner of the Hog's Head Pub.

Terrain Aware Randomly Displaced Inverted Succulent

This very special and very rare plant is able to cloak itself to fit in with similar plants and is known to grow shortly before amazing historical events. No one knows the exact purpose of the plant, but it can show up in any climate at any time. No one knows if its magic properties have an effect on the surroundings, or if it senses the great happenings of the time. It is interesting to note that the day that Harry Potter defeated Lord Voldemort, one of these plants sprouted in the corner of The Great Hall at Hogwarts.

Shock Tree

While in the youngest stages of development, this plant retains all of the energy needed to grow, and channels it on developing the magical properties it will gain after 5 years of life. Once it reaches its fifth year, the Shockling will suddenly grow into a full sized tree, capable of sending a magical jolt through any person attempting to harm it. Many a young lover has received a shock after attempting to carve initials into the Shock Tree. Penelope the Planter was beheaded in 1322 after spreading hundreds of Shock Tree seeds throughout the royal gardens. It should be noted that Penelope planted the seeds, and then returned 7 years later to gloat to an old friend, who was a maid in the castle. Rather than try to make sense of the magical plant, the muggles insisted she remove the trees, and after she did so they executed her.

Tree of Tears

Commonly used in the theatre setting, this tree can assist in the production of tears. The Tree of Tears can be placed on stage or near it and a witch or wizard simply needs to think about the plant and real tears will start to flow. Many experts studied the plant and concluded that the plant has a small amount of empathic magic that is released when heavy emotion is in the air. In 1543 a team of magical researches from the Ministry for Magic published a paper entitled, "Drawing Magical Essence from Other Sources: The Tree of Tears Theory" which explores the science of this phenomenon.

Bogey Bush

WARNING: Do not touch this plant! The Ministry for Magic's official stance on the Bogey Bush is that it is, "icky."

Created by Franklin and Gerhardt Wallace in 1120, the Bogey Bush is a dying breed of plant (thank Merlin) that produces sap that is very similar to a bogey. While it could certainly be counted as an amazing feat of magic and herbological mastery, it never is. F&G Wallace purposely modeled it to seem similar to Ruffner's Sweet, but instead of delicious tasting leafs the picker's hands get covered in disgusting mucus.

Winterfruit

A favorite of the current Minister for Magic, this tree produces a warm orb shaped fruit that is similar to the taste of chicken noodle soup. The Winterfruit starts to form from mid-to-late August and are ripe from late December to early February. It is suggested that every magical family own a Winterfruit Tree, but in the last 50 years it has faced the stigma of being for those without refined pallets due to the fact that most of the current Winterfruit Trees are owned by less wealthy wizarding families.

Dittany

This is one of few plants that is well-known by Muggles, but is a popular magical plant. In modern and historical times, Muggles have used it as a medicine for fevers, poison antidote, hysteria, seizures, and stomach ailments. In the wizarding world, it is a must-have for potion masters due to the fact that it is used in often requested potions. St. Mungo's has an entire greenhouse full of Dittany just to keep up with the amount used by the mediwizards.

Fanged Geranium

Note: The Herbologists at Infinitus 2010 wish to apologize for the state of this plant. Just last week it was in full bloom, but in the process of transporting it to this space it bit several of the movers. After one too many bites, an angry wizard cursed the biting flowers off, resulting in a boring, bare plant.

Included in the Trifecta of No Thank You (which includes The Stink Flower and Precariously Poisonous Petunia) from the "Flowers No One Wants to Interact With" paper by Eahs Parkinson, the Fanged Geranium causes students, professors, and herbologists alike to don tough gloves and a use quick approach to pruning

Sneezewort

Sneezewort, named for the sneezing effect it often has on those that encounter it, is a type of yarrow most commonly used for confusing and befuddlement draughts. An overdose of Sneezewort can cause lasting damage, so it is important to remember this simple rhyme:
"If you wish to use the Sneeze’, follow these directions if you please
Never more than a stalk of four (when combined with hellebore)
Will not thrive in a pack of five. Avoid a gooey mix of more than six
Seven is swell, if you fancy hell. Eight is great, if it is not too late
Nine is fine, if used in brine. And ten? Why do you want to use ten?

If you wish to examine the full meaning of this poem and others like it, please see the book "A Potion Rhyme to Save You Time (And Possibly Your Life!)" by Charles Boot.

Scaterofi

The Scaterofi is fine to be around 7 months out of the year, but during the months of March, April, May, June, and October it is nearly unbearable to keep as decoration because it is a self-fertilizing plant. During the months when it is self-fertilizing, it also produces a purple pod that many wizards claim is edible, but most believe it is just an urban myth that should never be tested. Not only does the Scaterofi produce very rich soil, it also has a very rich past. In times of heavy negativity towards Muggles, this plant is often sold as a houseplant to Muggle plant shops. The most recent incident using this plant in Muggle-baiting was linked to Lucius Malfoy, a documented member of the Death Eaters.

Mallowsweet

In 1997, this plant was nearly wiped out in England after orders were issued from Dolores Umbridge, who was the acting Head of the Muggle-born Registration Commission and therefore had sway over many individuals in many departments. It is rumored that she ordered this because of a centaur related injury she sustained shortly before she rejoined the Ministry for Magic after a brief time at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry as the Headmistress and Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor. Mallowsweet is burned by centaurs to aid in their stargazing. A Ministry insider claimed that the smell of Mallowsweet would make Dolores Umbridge vomit instantly. Currently the plant is thriving and shows all indications that it will be returned to its former amount within 5 more years.

Unknown

This plant was found in the very back of an old plant shop and has been passed around from one Herbology Institute to another. Cuttings have been taken from the plant, but even with the most intensive care, none have survived more than 6 days after being separated from the mother plant. Various tests have been performed on it, and while it has been verified of having magical origins, no actual properties have been discovered.

Moldy Goldy
written by archerpren

The American Fernus Fungaltonium, usually referred to as the Moldy Goldy, was discovered in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and loves rain and moisture. The common name for this plant is derived from the mold that will collect on the tips of the stalks of the plants. To muggle eyes they appear as gold flowers-like growths, but witches and wizards can see the growths for what they really are: gold colored mold. Eventually the mold will overtake the plant and it will disappear into the soil, ruining that spot for the growth of other plants. It is necessary to remove the growths every week. A famously mad wizard, Wilpren Archer, once made the mistake of not regularly pruning his Moldy Goldy, and his home was swallowed into the earth as a result.

The Vigilance Tree

The Vigilance Tree is known to keep an eye out for travelers, and has reportedly saved more than 10 lives. When a life is in danger, the tree is able to send out a loud cry for help that can be heard by rescuers. The rescuers are then led by the plant’s will to the injured, lost, or dying person. Unfortunately, all of the muggles that have been saved by the plant were later committed to mental institutions because none would let go of the story that they were “…Saved by a plant with a million eyes.”

For a short time in the 40s, the eyeballs of the plant were used to replace witches and wizards who had lost an eye that couldn’t be replaced. Due to weird interactions with the human body, 95% of them were replaced after 20 years.

The Linger Bush
written by stupid_drawings

This hearty plant is known to grow worldwide. Though its appearance is nondescript, the Linger Bush can be recognized by its mood-altering side effects. Brief exposure to the plant can cause flashes of melancholy, whereas longer contact has been known to cause prolonged ennui, and in some extreme cases, long-term depression. These side effects can be neutralized by planting a circle of yellow roses around the Linger Bush during a full moon, at precisely midnight, using a silver trowel, and while humming "My Two Knuts" by Penny Shillingston. Or by digging it up, whichever is more convenient.

The Beta Palm
written by stupid_drawings

The Beta Palm is a very powerful magical plant, and is very dangerous. The plant's primary goal seems to be in attracting people towards it in any way possible. The Beta has been known to alter any printed text within its magical reach. The Beta Palm has also been known to give wizards and witches strange narrative hallucinations, causing them to rewrite stories and pretend to be fictional characters. These hallucinations can quickly become addictive and symptoms usually manifest quickly. Now come over here and hug the Beta, before it alters this placard! All hail the Beta Palm! Beta Palm is all powerful!

Snarl Bush
written by dragonsinger954

The Snarl Bush stands rather upright and the leaves grow so that they are thought to be snarling at any other plants that dare grow in the same area. Found usually in wizarding regions but when located in muggle territory stands out and becomes rather noticeable. Its topmost branches have a fine white silky growth that when first seen, resembles hair. When placed out in the open with other plants, the white growth is able to suck in all of the sunlight, causing the other plants around it to wither and die. Although hard to keep with other plants, it is a favorite remedy for calming dragons. A publishing insider claimed Gilderoy Lockhart was writing a book called “Dalliances with Dragons” and stated that this plant made dragons sing (singing in this case refers to rhythmic growling and whining).

Celestial Originalus
written by hp5freak

It's a very rare plant that moves from convention to convention or anywhere great numbers of witches and wizards gather. But it's not really a plant, but rather a hybrid breed of plant and magical craft. The Celestia is actually made up of finely threaded crocheted pieces made to resemble many more common and dare we say Muggle style plants. These pieces have a magical, yet limited salve that used be extracted for use on minor injuries. Unfortunately, the salve seems to wither and redden outermost layers of skin giving the user the temporary, but rather itchy appearance of sunburn. Approach with caution and only use with the close guidance of a trained Healer....

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

spinfrog — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 18:09:51 GMT

Hi!

Now that so many of you have been to TWWOHP, please share your reviews! What rides/attractions did you go to? What was it like? Are all the rides really fast or is there a slow one? Were the restaurants friendly to people with different dietary needs? What advise would you give to others? What would you do differently next time you go? Should we create a comm for this? :)

ETA: if you've reviewed the park in your own LJ, please share the link!

Win a Ride with Chris or Christian

heidi8 — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 18:52:39 GMT

If you have a ticket to Night of a Thousand Wizards, we’ll be selling tickets for a special raffle – six lucky people will have the chance to fly through Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with either Chris Rankin or Christian Coulson! Raffle tickets will cost $5 each, and will be available at the Registration Add-Ons desk on Thursday, and on Friday until 2 p.m. – we may have them on Wednesday, too, but we wont be sure about that until that day.

All proceeds from this raffle will be divided among the HP Alliance, Kids Need To Read and HPEF.

Raffle winners must have a ticket to Night of a Thousand Wizards and must be in the Sindbad Theater by 11 p.m. on July 16 or their prize will be forfeit.

Repo! fans?

shaebay — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 22:34:25 GMT

Not going to Night of a Thousand Wizards? Hate sleeping and need something to do that evening? Join us at The Enzian in Orlando for Repo! The Genetic Opera, performed Rocky Horror Picture Show-style by the shadowcast Keyboard Samurai.

Repo! The Genetic Opera is a fun film about drugs, plastic surgery, and the repossession of organs. The best part is that everybody sings! The Keyboard Samurai cast is great, so if you want to laugh at some raunchy jokes and sing loudly, this is the place for you. Even if you haven't seen the movie, it will be a great experience.

Show starts at Midnight on Friday, July 16th
Cost: $10.00 for General Admission
$8.00 for Students/Senior Citizens

Tickets can be purchased in advance here - http://www.enzian.org/film/day/2010/07/16/

We already have two people willing to drive over there, leaving room for 6-8 additional people (depending on how friendly you’re willing to get with your fellow con attendees). We’ll probably be going over in Potter costumes, but feel free to wear whatever you’re comfortable in (Potter clothing, Repo! Costumes, street clothing… as long as you’re legal.) Due to the adult nature of the show (not the movie itself but from the shadowcast and audience participation bits), attendees should be 18+.

Please let us know if you have purchased your ticket (we strongly suggest buying a ticket in advance just in case they sell out) or are thinking about coming. We'll be meeting at 11pm outside of the common room.

Meet-ups!

ladysugarquill — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 23:13:45 GMT

Hi! I'm a fanficcer and fanartist, an I was wondering, is there any general fanfic and/or fanart meet-ups organized for Infinitus? If not, who would be interested in one? I'd love to go to one, but I have no idea how to organize it. Does anyone want to? :)

Also, a couple of us over at the HPEF forums were thinking about a meet-up for Spanish-speakers. Is there any interest in that? Again, I have no idea how to organize one, but maybe someone out there wants to do it :D

Costume Policy for WWoHP on July 16

heidi8 — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 18:11:12 GMT

Universal Orlando sent us its costume policy for July 16, 2010. Please note that the policy applies to all Infinitus registrants from 2:00 in the afternoon until the close of Islands of Adventure, and applies to Night of a Thousand Wizards ticketholders through that event and until attendees return to their hotels or vehicles.

It has been decided that leniency with our costume policy will be extended specifically for our Infinitus Night of a Thousand Wizards event. Guests will be allowed to wear their costumes in the parks, beginning at 2pm, on the date of their event – July 16th.

Infinitus attendees may wear costumes to the theme parks after 2pm, only on July 16, 2010 Infinitus conference badge must be prominently displayed at all times. If a guest is spotted without a prominently displayed conference badge they will be requested to exit the park.

No masks, veils, long trains or live animals will be allowed.

Universal Orlando will have sole discretion to make a decision on whether a costume is appropriate and will be allowed to ask guests to make costume adjustments or to escort guests out of the park.

At no time may the costumed guest give the impression that they are a Universal Orlando employee.

Note that some costumes may not be permitted on certain attractions.

Note that wands will not fit inside lockers.

During the exclusive event in Wizarding World of Harry Potter, bartenders and staff reserve the right to request that a guest remove any type of facial covering for identification purposes. As guests exit the event, they may walk through CityWalk in costume, no masks or facial coverings. As costumed guests exit through CityWalk they may not enter venues or linger.

heidi8 — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:40:46 GMT

We are coming close to our space capacity numbers, even for single- and two-day registrations, so we want to clarify things:

1. Tickets sales will continue through noon (Eastern Daylight Time) tomorrow via the website - ie almost 25 hours from now. When ticket sales close, we will no longer sell Full Registrations, Merlin's Circle registrations or upgrades. We have under 20 Full registrations left anyway.

2. We will have a limited number of single- and two-day tickets available on-site, and they will be priced at $50 per day. We will also have a limited number of Night of Frivolity Ball tickets available on-site at $25 each. We will stop selling all tickets at noon on Saturday, although those who have pre-registered will be able to pick up their packets after that.

3. Photo purchases will be available on Froggy's site until he closes sales; those are being handled outside the Infinitus registration system, so they will continue into July.

4. We are going to set up a method for purchase of luncheon tickets, so you can get those until July 9, when we have to hand meal-count numbers over to the hotel. Keep your eye on this page for more information.

5. We strongly recommend that you follow HPEF on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/HPEF. We will be tweeting updates during Infinitus, including room changes, new events, vendor room specials, common room activities and more; if you need more information about signing up for Twitter, you can visit their site here. You don't have to reply to us, or use Twitter to discuss anything, or re-tweet our tweets, if you don't want to, but if you want up-to-the-second info about HPEF and Infinitus, your best bet is to follow us on Twitter.

snarry meet-up

samtastic4 — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:20:29 GMT

a snarry meet-up is in the works!!! keep up with all the latest @ hpss_infinitus!!!

edit!: more info is up, and if you want a say in the planning, head on over!!

-sam

stupid_drawings — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 07:44:51 GMT

I figured even though Sam just posted about our suite, I would chime in about it. If you are still in need of hotel space, ours is going to be awesome! It'll be a big group of us, but we're going to be one big family. Most of us are costumes, so you know we're dorks of the highest degree! I also do fan art, and I know a number of the other girls in the room write.
It's at the Royal Pacific from the 15th-19th.

This is the same room samewise_sam was just pimping, but I thought I'd add this just in case.

roommates needed!

samtastic4 — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 17:11:16 GMT

hey all!

with only about a month to go, we still need roomies for our suite, yes suite! it's big and roomy and will come at an awesome price if we get more people!!!

its at the royal pacific from the 15th-19th, and we are all awesome hp lovers. there is a big group of us, but since its a suite there will be tons of room, although only floor space right now so have a air mattress/sleeping bag handy! please help us out to keep cost down!!!

thanks!

Formal Programming Update

heidi8 — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 11:42:30 GMT

We've posted the official schedule for the Infinitus 2010 Formal Programs to our main website at http://www.infinitus2010.org/formal.html
The Formal Programs page includes an updated list of programs listed by day. In addition, PDF files with timetables for Thursday, Friday and Saturday programs, in an easy to view table sorted by time and room are now online.
And on Monday we posted updated info about Night of a Thousand Wizards, which is almost sold out, as are full registrations.

See you in a month!

A Harry/Draco Meet-up/Party

soul_bound_8686 — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:35:38 GMT

We are holding an H/D Spectacular! The invitation is open to all, but those who RSVP by June 27 will receive an H/D goody bag and a ticket for the prize drawing. A detailed announcement as well as a call for volunteers can be found here:

http://soul-bound-8686.livejournal.com/5998.html

We hope to see you there!

"Weasley Is Our King" meetup: need input!!

hmrpotter — Sat, 12 Jun 2010 02:26:24 GMT

Calling all Weasley lovers!!! I will be co-hosting a "Weasley Is Our King" meetup group at Infinitus!! The purpose is to connect with other fans of my beloved Ron Weasley, as well as fans of the rest of the Weasleys.

Now, the only thing I need to know is how many people are interested in coming and what day/time would be better for you? There are three slots that are available, please vote on what day/time you would prefer!!

Click here to take survey

Sneak peek at the Infinitus newsletter info

jennclack — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 18:31:55 GMT

UPDATE: Night of a Thousand Wizards schedule & ticket sales
Universal has released about 200 additional tickets to Night of a Thousand Wizards, so we have about 400 left for sale. We are closing ticket sales on June 23, unless we sell out before then, and no tickets to NoaTW will be sold on-site, so purchase your tickets now!
Learn more about Night of a Thousand Wizards here.

Speaking of Sell-Outs...
We have only a few Full registrations still available, as well about 100 Merlin's Circle registrations and under 20 add-on tickets to the Welcome and Leaving Feasts, so if you want to attend the Infinitus Feasts, we highly recommend registering (or upgrading) as soon as possible. No Full or Merlin's Circle registrations or Feast tickets will be sold on-site.

Sell-Outs Around the Corner

heidi8 — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 21:28:23 GMT

Night of a Thousand Wizards schedule & ticket sales
Universal has released about 200 additional tickets to Night of a Thousand Wizards, so we have about 400 left for sale. We are closing ticket sales on June 23, unless we sell out before then, and no tickets to NoaTW will be sold on-site, so purchase your tickets now by registering or modifying a registration here.
Learn more about Night of a Thousand Wizards here.

Speaking of Sell-Outs...
We have only a few Full registrations still available, as well about 100 Merlin's Circle registrations and under 20 add-on tickets to the Welcome and Leaving Feasts, so if you want to attend the Infinitus Feasts, we highly recommend registering (or upgrading) as soon as possible. No Full or Merlin's Circle registrations or Feast tickets will be sold on-site. Click here to register or here to read the Registration FAQ.

Live! Wizard Chessmatch

serade_black — Mon, 31 May 2010 15:20:05 GMT

It's getting very close! We've been sweating ourselves death in this Florida heat (don't worry, we're very used to it) to rehearse the show, so I'm hoping it gets a great reception. The cast is compiled of both die-hard HP Con goers, their spouses and mild HP Fans. All of them have put great effort into this for us, but I still don't think they're going to grasp the amounts of Squeeling there is going to be when they actually see Lucius strut arrogantly to his wife, or when Ron has his revenge on Peter Pettigrew or when Sirius finally yells at Snape: SNIVELLUS!

Yeah, we're not excited at all....

Here are the lastest 2 episodes to track our updates:

Part IV: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSosBsFgkPU
(I will warn: it's a bit nerdy at the end. Sirius Black is secretly a Star Wars Fan)

Part V: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTop5ZSKalk
(There is sound after the text)

Friday & Saturday Keynote Luncheon Updates

heidi8 — Fri, 28 May 2010 15:32:09 GMT

Infinitus is thrilled to announce our Friday and Saturday Keynote Luncheon speakers; we have been working to put together these panels for years and we are so pleased to be able to present them as part of Infinitus, as each panel represents the impossible possibility of fans and creativity.

Saturday's luncheon speaker will be Franchise Creative Director for Electronic Arts' Bright Light studio, Kelvin Tuite, who has worked on various Harry Potter video games; tickets to the luncheon are $50, and it begins at noon on Saturday. Kelvin will give a behind the scenes perspective on aspects of Harry Potter video game creation.

Friday's lunch will feature fanfic writers turned pro: Naomi Novik, Karen Healey, R.J. Anderson and Ali Wilgus. At the lunchtime panel, they will discuss making the transition between fanfic writer and published novelist, their writing processes and their feeling about fanfic for their original stories. Tickets to the Friday luncheon are $75, and it begins at noon.

Naomi Novik is the Chair of the Organization for Transformative Works, New York Times-bestselling author of the award-winning Temeraire historical fantasy series, and an active participant and creator in online fandoms since 1994, publishing stories and vids in more than forty-two fandoms and founding several fan-run institutions. The next Temeraire novel, Tongue of Serpents, will be released on July 13.

R.J. Anderson is the author of 2009's Knife a.k.a. Faery Rebels: Spell Hunter and its sequel, Rebel a.k.a. Wayfarer, will be released on June 22. She has been involved in the Harry Potter fandom since 2000, as well as Doctor Who, House, M.D. and Sherlock Holmes and more.

Karen Healey has been involved in various fandoms since 1996, including Sailor Moon, Improfanfic, Harry Potter, Marvel Comics, X-Men Movieverse, and Leverage. She is the author of YA urban fantasy Guardian of the Dead, which is set in her homeland of New Zealand, and deals with the problems and power of inherited stories. She is a PhD candidate at the University of Melbourne, and her dissertation, officially titled "Power and Responsibility: The Contemporary Superhero Comic as Fan Text", is privately titled, "Superhero Comics: Totally Fic, Guys." She drinks absurd amounts of Diet Coke.

Ali Wilgus has created renowned Harry Potter fanart, and written fanfic as well. Her professional work in comics and animation includes projects for Del Rey Manga, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon Magazine, Dancing Diablo and Flickerlab, and her first novel, Last Airbender: Prequel: Zuko's Story, was released in May.

Menus will be posted next week at infinitus2010.org.

Programming Sessions - The Master List & Sponsorship

heidi8 — Fri, 14 May 2010 18:55:39 GMT

At past HPEF events, individuals, websites, groups, ships, friends, teams and others have sponsored programming sessions, and we are pleased to introduce a reprise of our Programming Sponsorship Program for Infinitus.

Each of the presentations, panels, round tables, debates and discussions is available for sponsorship, at a rate of $50 per session. Session sponsors will receive a sign in the room during the session and if the sponsorship is paid before June 5, 2010, we will also be able to include an acknowledgment in the program. Just modify your registration here by adding a Programming Session Sponsorship and donating $50 for one session, $100 for two, and so on, then pay as you would for any registration modification. Then, please email SessionSponsor@infinitus2010.org with your registration confirmation number and the title(s) of the session(s) you wish to sponsor - if they're already taken we'll let you know and help you choose an available selection. Send us an email if you have any questions.

You can find the list of the titles of all the programming sessions here - we're still working on posting the summaries, but it's going to take a few more days because the summaries, when printed, are about 70 pages long!

LIVE! Wizard Combat Chessmatch

serade_black — Tue, 11 May 2010 01:55:30 GMT

Are you totally excited about INFINITUS? Are you wishing that it could start as soon as you get there? How about seeing some of your favorite characters battle it out in a game of Live Wizard Stunt Combat Chess? That's right, for the first time ever, there will be a Live Action Human Combat Chessmatch performed on Thursday @ 12noon at the Con hotel. No ticket required, be sure to get there early for a good seat in the grass.

Come see the Order of the Phoenix and Dumbledore's Army take on the Death Eaters for a "fair" game of human combat chess, where the wizards and witches are the pieces and are forced to use primitive muggle weapons when their move is called. Cheer on your favorite side as Harry, Hermione, Ron, The Twins, Angelina, Luna, Lucius, Narcissa, Bellatrix, Snape, Peter Pettigrew, Sirius, Remus, Fenrir, Tonks and more to defeat their enemy!

We're very excited about this upcoming performance. Become a friend of ours on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Harry-Potter-LIVE-Wizard-Chessmatch-at-INFINITUS-2010/297161881088

See the rehearsals so far:
Part I - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tURfK9EQDIQ
Part II - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zmjx1DCvtb8
Part III - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA5nXBpfDKk

Snapecast's Snape-a-riffic Meetup

akemi42 — Tue, 04 May 2010 01:37:24 GMT

snapecast has begun making plans for some serious Snape-ing at Infinitus. If you would like to attend, please join infinitus_snape so we can gather input about location, date, etc.

Be Afraid

dixiebell12 — Mon, 03 May 2010 14:46:30 GMT

The Dark Lord will soon be calling forth his minions to gather in Orlando. Death Eaters from around the globe will answer his summons to Revel at Infinitus. The question is, will you?
community.livejournal.com/revel_infinitus/