Programming Deadline Extended
Because we had some reasonable requests for a little extra time, we’ve extended the deadline for programming proposals to June 7, 2009. We’ve also extended this option to all comers, so if you didn’t have time to submit a proposal earlier, please do consider sending one in. If you need help or assistance, please feel free to contact (programming at sirensconference.org). Whether your proposal is accepted or not, we truly appreciate what you have to offer–and we want to include diverse viewpoints. Here’s an excerpt from the call for proposals:

Sirens, a conference focused on literary contributions by women to the fantasy genre and on fantasy works with prominent female characters, will take place October 1–4, 2009, in Vail, CO. The conference seeks papers, panels, interactive workshops, roundtable discussions, and other presentations suitable for an audience of academics, professionals, educators, librarians, authors, and fantasy readers.

The theme for 2009 is “warriors,” and programming prompted by the theme is encouraged; presenters are not limited to this theme, however, and proposals that address specific aspects of a work or series, works related by other themes, and studies of the fantasy genre across all disciplines are encouraged as well. A non-exhaustive list of sample topics includes literary analyses of novels; studies of genre history; use of fantasy works in schools and libraries for education; examination of related business and legal issues; media and fan studies; craft-based workshops in writing, art, and publishing; and overviews of how fantasy works fit into larger contexts.

We’re also pleased to receive interactive afternoon classes. Share your related hobbies and activities with other attendees!

Programming Panels
Our programming team is arranging several panels to bring together presenters who have submitted proposals on some of the most popular topics. We’ll open these up to other presenters as well. Information on applying to be a panelist will be published at sirenscon.livejournal.com only, so keep an eye on our LiveJournal for more.

General Chat
We’ll have staff available to answer your questions about programming and to help you work through ideas. You’re also welcome to come and connect with other Sirens attendees. We’ll hold a few more chats before Sirens at different times and on different days of the week if you can’t make it to this one.

DATE: Monday, June 1
TIME: 9-11 p.m. Eastern/6-8 p.m. Pacific
LOCATION: www.sirensconference.org/chat/

You don’t need to download anything or have any special software to participate–the page will turn into a chat room when the chat begins.

Vail Cascade Resort and Spa
Roommates wanted! If you’re seeking a roommate, or if you’re looking for someone to share a room with, check out the Sirens message boards for advertisements.

Did you see? The Vail Cascade has completed their multi-million dollar renovation and October is a beautiful time to visit.

The Vail Cascade is committed to eco-friendly tourism. Here are just some of our venue’s practices:

• Sourcing environmentally sensitive products and services locally, and purchasing organic, environmentally friendly/responsible and recycled supplies, whenever possible.
• Purchasing fresh, and sustainable foods locally grown, whenever possible.
• Using environmentally responsible building materials and strategies for renovations to reduce environmental impact.
• Using energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems, as well as water-saving devices.

Quick Links
The Sirens Website and Tell a Friend Link
Registration
Travel
Become a Supporter
Read the FAQ

For More Information
Please feel free to contact us at (help at sirensconference.org). We’re happy to answer any questions you might have.

See you in Vail!