New to TAM, what did I get myself into....

habu · 19th April 2010, 11:08 PM

I have been debating internally about even creating this thread. After little thought and a ton of what-the-heck.. here goes.

I've mentioned in the rollcall that this will be my first TAM(really any major event beyond a SITP) and since my n00b status is fresh on this board there is much that is still unknown. I do have a fair understanding of convention settings in hand, but judging from the posts TAM is really different from the business convention/User Group meetings I am accustomed to. Other than perhaps one or two of people there is no one I know and being pretty shy walking up to someone chances are there might be a good deal that can be missed.

So my question is this, what did I get myself into

What should I expect ?

What pointers, can the TAM vets give a noob like myself ?

Thanks, and if you haven't been able to tell, I am really excited to be able to go to TAM8

Chris H · 19th April 2010, 11:26 PM

Feast your eyes on this...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9upTLWRZTfw

Chris H · 19th April 2010, 11:28 PM

Sorry. I meant this...

http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=164889

habu · 20th April 2010, 07:14 AM

Very Cool... THANKS Chris!

Chris H · 20th April 2010, 07:21 AM

Originally Posted by habu

Very Cool... THANKS Chris!

Which one?

NoZed Avenger · 20th April 2010, 09:11 AM

Originally Posted by habu

So my question is this, what did I get myself into

What should I expect ?

What pointers, can the TAM vets give a noob like myself ?

Run. Run for your life as if the very hounds of Hell were chasing you, and you were smothering in BBQ sauce.

It's too late for me. I'll try to distract them.

Tell Mom . . . tell her I miss her.

MLynn · 20th April 2010, 12:33 PM

This will be my 6th TAM. The South Point is the same venue as last year and everything is self-contained: Rooms, conference room, Business Center (very handy), Food, casino, bowling, etc.

People come and go depending of what speakers/presentations they are most interested in. The schedule is so packed that you will not be bored. There will be books and a merchandise table there too.

I would encourage any new attendees to NOT be nervous, meet people and just enjoy yourself! A good ice breaker is attending the Thursday 5-7pm Welcome reception (if it's done again this year). Free food too.

Oh, bring extra money if you want to take a cab to the Strip - can be expensive, but then if it's split up in group travel, it's not so bad.

Allecher · 20th April 2010, 12:34 PM

Thanks for asking this, Habu! I am in a similar situation.

I read the whole thread that Chris H linked to and now I am hungry for something called Tim Tams.

kittynh · 20th April 2010, 12:40 PM

There is also going to be a forum welcome table, and buttons that let people know you are new. Ask any questions at the forum table, and there should be fun extra events posted... bowling, meeting up for dinner.. and really just find the BAR. We take over the BAR (near the ice cream, NY Deli, off track betting and slots). Then buy any women drinks (really it's required) and join in! Just sit down and enjoy.

Dicon · 20th April 2010, 03:48 PM

Originally Posted by habu

What pointers, can the TAM vets give a noob like myself ?

As long as you have your performance well rehearsed and you don't suffer any wardrobe malfunctions, you'll be fine. Just remember, the theme for this year's Newbie Initiation is "Showtunes from the 40s."

SkepticScott · 20th April 2010, 04:46 PM

Originally Posted by MLynn

A good ice breaker is attending the Thursday 5-7pm Welcome reception (if it's done again this year). Free food too.

I've been told that yes, there will be a reception Thursday evening.

Originally Posted by MLynn

Oh, bring extra money if you want to take a cab to the Strip - can be expensive, but then if it's split up in group travel, it's not so bad.

The bus is cheaper at $7 for a 24-hour pass, but much slower. Last year I was in Vegas for a couple days before TAM and I used the buses a lot.

habu · 20th April 2010, 05:29 PM

Originally Posted by habu

Very Cool... THANKS Chris!

Originally Posted by Chris H

Which one?

Both actually

Originally Posted by kittynh

There is also going to be a forum welcome table, and buttons that let people know you are new. Ask any questions at the forum table, and there should be fun extra events posted... bowling, meeting up for dinner.. and really just find the BAR. We take over the BAR (near the ice cream, NY Deli, off track betting and slots). Then buy any women drinks (really it's required) and join in! Just sit down and enjoy.

Duly Noted... buttons, bar, buy drinks. That I can do.

Originally Posted by Desktop Icon

As long as you have your performance well rehearsed and you don't suffer any wardrobe malfunctions, you'll be fine. Just remember, the theme for this year's Newbie Initiation is "Showtunes from the 40s."

I'm hosed....

Thanks for the tips and I'm heading off to the other thread to digest as much of it as I can.

rustypouch · 21st April 2010, 02:42 AM

Don't forget fun with Mr. Pinky.

The Central Scrutinizer · 21st April 2010, 06:37 AM

Originally Posted by rustypouch

Don't forget fun with Mr. Pinky.

That's a given.

RSLancastr · 21st April 2010, 09:49 PM

I'll reiterate one thing: Don't hesitate to walk up to any of the speakers (up to - and especially - James Randi) and speak with them. Also, be sure to give anyone in a motorized wheel chair a wide clear path. These things are heavy.

Wowbagger · 21st April 2010, 09:55 PM

I second the notion of not hesitating to speak with the speakers. Even the famous ones. TAM makes it a point of making them accessible to us hoi polloi.

Miss_Kitt · 21st April 2010, 10:09 PM

Welcome, welcome! A few years ago, I was new on the JREF forum, and going to my first TAM. And since then, it has become the guaranteed event of my year. You are going to have FUN, my friend!

First of all, do not hesitate to walk up to people and introduce yourself. Many of us (Forumites) will be wearing badges that have our avatars and Forum names on them, so you can recognize us. Heck, there are still people whose real world names I would not recognize on a bet...but I love dearly.

Do take a minute to talk to whomever you'd like to among the speakers, too. Or 'famous skeptics' that you see in the audience. I'm still kicking myself for not having breakfast with Joe Nickell when I had the chance--I had an attack of the 'shys' and just smiled instead of accepting the nod towards the seat by him. Now I realize that he--like about everyone you'll meet at TAM--is genuinely interested in meeting other people who share the worldview of wanting to know what's real, what's keen, and what's funny in the world.

Also, I highly recommend attending the talent show, which IIRC is being called a Ham Party this year. That's a complete hoot!

Looking forward to meeting, Miss_Kitt
aka, "that giraffe and sunset avatar person"

RSLancastr · 21st April 2010, 10:30 PM

Originally Posted by Wowbagger

I second the notion of not hesitating to speak with the speakers. Even the famous ones. TAM makes it a point of making them accessible to us hoi polloi.

I've wondered: is the sigular of hoi polloi, hous pollous?

RSLancastr · 22nd April 2010, 12:21 AM

And, read a report of the coolest TAM experience ever in the history of TAMkind!

Actually, a list of my TAM expriences reads like some sort of A Skeptic's Progress:

TAMs 1,2 & 3: Couldn't afford to go.

TAM4: Sunday paper presenter on Stopping Kaz: One Skeptic's efforts to use the Internet to Stop a religious Charlatan

TAM5: interviews by New York Daily News, CNN's Anderson Cooper 360 show and Penn Jillette's radio show

TAM5.5: Speaker about Skepticism and Activism

TAM6: Spoke about StopSylvia & plans for upcoming Stop Sites

TAM7: Received Citizen Skeptic award

TAM8: (Watch this space)

What a ride!

kmortis · 22nd April 2010, 05:40 AM

Originally Posted by RSLancastr

I'll reiterate one thing: Don't hesitate to walk up to any of the speakers (up to - and especially - James Randi) and speak with them. Also, be sure to give anyone in a motorized wheel chair a wide clear path. These things are heavy.

But Rob, that's why I wear steel toed shoes.

One caveat to Bob's real point. You're gonna be nervous. You're gonna be tounge tied. Go and chat with them anyway. My only TAM 7 regret is that I didn't chat with Phil more when I had the chance. From the "luminaries" I've heard from (mostly via podcasts) they understand that you're nervous, so you won't be that stupiud sounding.

Also, enjoy the little spontaneous moments tha occur. Last year some attendee brought the juggler's pins (they look like bowling pins, but jugglers use them), and he was juggling them in the hall between lectures. Penn and Michael Gudeau walked up and started juggling with him. It was fun.

Allecher · 22nd April 2010, 06:32 AM

Thanks for the reinforcing words, everyone, but now I've got something else to be worried about. What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later?

I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize!

kmortis · 22nd April 2010, 06:53 AM

Originally Posted by Allecher

Thanks for the reinforcing words, everyone, but now I've got something else to be worried about. What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later?

I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize!

Naa...just chat up everybody (except Scrut), and you'll do fine.

The Central Scrutinizer · 22nd April 2010, 07:57 AM

Originally Posted by RSLancastr

I've wondered: is the sigular of hoi polloi, hous pollous?

Ironically, we were discussing Hoi Polloi at the pub this evening.

RSLancastr · 22nd April 2010, 09:12 AM

Originally Posted by kmortis

But Rob, that's why I wear steel toed shoes.

How strong?, between me and the chair, that's somewhere between 450-500 pounds!

Quote:

One caveat to Bob's real point. You're gonna be nervous. You're gonna be tounge tied. Go and chat with them anyway. My only TAM 7 regret is that I didn't chat with Phil more when I had the chance. From the "luminaries" I've heard from (mostly via podcasts) they understand that you're nervous, so you won't be that stupiud sounding.

Wow, Philmore was there? I would have liked to have seen them!

Quote:

Also, enjoy the little spontaneous moments tha occur. Last year some attendee brought the juggler's pins (they look like bowling pins, but jugglers use them), and he was juggling them in the hall between lectures. Penn and Michael Gudeau walked up and started juggling with him. It was fun.

There are definitely some fun and spontaneous moments in the hallways. And some aren't alcohol-fueled!

kmortis · 22nd April 2010, 09:55 AM

Originally Posted by RSLancastr

How strong?, between me and the chair, that's somewhere between 450-500 pounds!

WEll, I once had a pallet of bottled water dropped on them. That's slightly over a ton. I think I got ya covered.

Quote:

Wow, Philmore was there? I would have liked to have seen them!

Yeah, and Missers Bergman, Ossman and Proctor were lurking around the corner...carrying pliers.

Quote:

There are definitely some fun and spontaneous moments in the hallways. And some aren't alcohol-fueled!

And always remember kids, to find the lecture halls, turn at the horse's ass.

SkepticScott · 22nd April 2010, 09:57 AM

Originally Posted by Allecher

What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later?

I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize!

A covert glance at a person's name badge would help.

Besides their name, look for a sticker or ribbon.

if they have a sticker, it's probably a forum avatar (see http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=170658)
speakers will have a ribbon reading "speaker" below their badge
Randi and DJ will have ribbons probably reading something like "founder" and "president"
Hal will have a "Master of Ceremonies" ribbon
volunteers will have "volunteer" ribbons
JREF staff will have "staff" ribbons

This is unofficial and I may be wrong, but we've always had the ribbons and I don't think we'll stop this year.

kmortis · 22nd April 2010, 10:03 AM

Originally Posted by SkepticScott

A covert glance at a person's name badge would help.

Besides their name, look for a sticker or ribbon.

if they have a sticker, it's probably a forum avatar (see http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=170658)
speakers will have a ribbon reading "speaker" below their badge
Randi and DJ will have ribbons probably reading something like "founder" and "president"
Hal will have a "Master of Ceremonies" ribbon
volunteers will have "volunteer" ribbons
JREF staff will have "staff" ribbons

This is unofficial and I may be wrong, but we've always had the ribbons and I don't think we'll stop this year.

You can also tell Hal by the number of people around him not laughing at his jokes.

SkepticScott · 22nd April 2010, 10:15 AM

Originally Posted by kmortis

You can also tell Hal by the number of people around him not laughing at his jokes.

He's also a source of innumerable puns and the person you want to announce anything important, as everyone who was at TAM1 knows.

kmortis · 22nd April 2010, 10:47 AM

Originally Posted by SkepticScott

He's also a source of innumerable puns and the person you want to announce anything important, as everyone who was at TAM1 knows.

And, honestly, next to RSL hisself, Hal is probably the most approachable of the luminaries at TAM. He's also quite the interesting guy once you get him talking.

CriticalThanking · 22nd April 2010, 11:14 AM

Originally Posted by Allecher

What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later?

The first night of my first TAM (5?), I was wandering in the hallway and tried to listen in on a small group of TAMmers. One turned and grabbed me and used me as a prop while he performed a magic trick. I later found out it was Jamie Ian Swiss, whom I had never heard of before.

The rest of the crowd was TKingDoll's (another forum old timer) crowd from the UK. Everyone was unbelievably friendly.

The more drinks I bought him, the friendlier Marquis de Carabas became.

CT

rustypouch · 22nd April 2010, 11:33 AM

Originally Posted by Allecher

Thanks for the reinforcing words, everyone, but now I've got something else to be worried about. What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later?

I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize!

Why is that a worry?

So you're friendly to some C-list celebrity and don't know who they are. Meh. I am sure they like booze and goats.

Gilmar · 22nd April 2010, 10:04 PM

The celebs are often there to be with like-minded people as well. As much as it's a value to us, it is to them too. They're pretty approachable.

Cuddles · 23rd April 2010, 05:42 AM

Originally Posted by Allecher

What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later?

Don't worry, as long as you can recognise Phil, you can recognise most skeptics. They all look pretty much the same.

Originally Posted by CriticalThanking

I later found out it was Jamie Ian Swiss, whom I had never heard of before.

I still haven't heard of him.

DocM · 23rd April 2010, 06:48 AM

You may joke about this, but at TAM London that was a major source of confusion. I just asked Phil and Richard Wiseman to sign "Death from the Skies" and "Quirkology" both, since that seemed a bit less embarrassing than asking them who they were. Well, less embarrassing for me...

NoZed Avenger · 23rd April 2010, 07:37 AM

Originally Posted by CriticalThanking

The more drinks I bought him, the friendlier Marquis de Carabas became.

Dear Lord. What did the clinic say?

Wowbagger · 23rd April 2010, 07:42 AM

Originally Posted by DocM

You may joke about this, but at TAM London that was a major source of confusion. I just asked Phil and Richard Wiseman to sign "Death from the Skies" and "Quirkology" both, since that seemed a bit less embarrassing than asking them who they were. Well, less embarrassing for me...

Here's one possible way to tell the difference between Richard Wiseman and Phil Plait.

If he's chatting with Rebecca, chances are, it is Phil.

If he's chatting with Teek, chances are, it is Richard.

This rule is not perfect. There are exceptions. But, it's just one thing to keep in mind, when trying to sort them out.

The Central Scrutinizer · 23rd April 2010, 08:59 AM

Originally Posted by Wowbagger

Here's one possible way to tell the difference between Richard Wiseman and Phil Plait.

If he's chatting with Rebecca, chances are, it is Phil.

If he's chatting with Teek, chances are, it is Richard.

This rule is not perfect. There are exceptions. But, it's just one thing to keep in mind, when trying to sort them out.

Or, the one speaking with a British accent is Richard. The American is Phil.

DocM · 23rd April 2010, 09:24 AM

Well, after seeing the interview Rebecca did with Richard I wouldn't be surprised if he stopped talking to her.

CriticalThanking · 23rd April 2010, 10:16 AM

Originally Posted by Cuddles

I still haven't heard of him.

Oops. Jamy Ian Swiss is a specialist in close up magic and is a long time skeptic. In addition to the references listed there, he is the founder of the Capital City Skeptics and a regular on DJ Grothe's For Good Reason podcast. He is a friend of Randi and has spoken at a TAM or two. He was master of ceremonies at NECCS last week.

CT

MLynn · 23rd April 2010, 11:36 AM

Originally Posted by RSLancastr

And, read a report of the coolest TAM experience ever in the history of TAMkind!

Actually, a list of my TAM expriences reads like some sort of A Skeptic's Progress:

TAMs 1,2 & 3: Couldn't afford to go.

TAM4: Sunday paper presenter on Stopping Kaz: One Skeptic's efforts to use the Internet to Stop a religious Charlatan

TAM5: interviews by New York Daily News, CNN's Anderson Cooper 360 show and Penn Jillette's radio show

TAM5.5: Speaker about Skepticism and Activism

TAM6: Spoke about StopSylvia & plans for upcoming Stop Sites

TAM7: Received Citizen Skeptic award

TAM8: (Watch this space)

What a ride!

Yay, Robert! It will be good to see you again!

19th April 2010, 11:08 PM	#1
habu New Blood Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 20	New to TAM, what did I get myself into.... I have been debating internally about even creating this thread. After little thought and a ton of what-the-heck.. here goes. I've mentioned in the rollcall that this will be my first TAM(really any major event beyond a SITP) and since my n00b status is fresh on this board there is much that is still unknown. I do have a fair understanding of convention settings in hand, but judging from the posts TAM is really different from the business convention/User Group meetings I am accustomed to. Other than perhaps one or two of people there is no one I know and being pretty shy walking up to someone chances are there might be a good deal that can be missed. So my question is this, what did I get myself into What should I expect ? What pointers, can the TAM vets give a noob like myself ? Thanks, and if you haven't been able to tell, I am really excited to be able to go to TAM8
	Last edited by habu; 19th April 2010 at 11:10 PM.

20th April 2010, 09:11 AM	#6
NoZed Avenger Bitter Whiner Join Date: Apr 2002 Posts: 11,313	Originally Posted by habu So my question is this, what did I get myself into What should I expect ? What pointers, can the TAM vets give a noob like myself ? Run. Run for your life as if the very hounds of Hell were chasing you, and you were smothering in BBQ sauce. It's too late for me. I'll try to distract them. Tell Mom . . . tell her I miss her.
	__________________ [This Space Available. PM for Rates.]

20th April 2010, 12:33 PM	#7
MLynn Whippet of Peace Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: USA Posts: 3,625	This will be my 6th TAM. The South Point is the same venue as last year and everything is self-contained: Rooms, conference room, Business Center (very handy), Food, casino, bowling, etc. People come and go depending of what speakers/presentations they are most interested in. The schedule is so packed that you will not be bored. There will be books and a merchandise table there too. I would encourage any new attendees to NOT be nervous, meet people and just enjoy yourself! A good ice breaker is attending the Thursday 5-7pm Welcome reception (if it's done again this year). Free food too. Oh, bring extra money if you want to take a cab to the Strip - can be expensive, but then if it's split up in group travel, it's not so bad.
	__________________ Mik - Obey the Zombie Whippet or she will eat your brain Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from a religious conviction. - Blaise Pascal MLynn, I've said it before: You're so nice, you couldn't get a rapper to call you a ho. - maddog

20th April 2010, 12:40 PM	#9
kittynh The Hupsu Detective auctioneer Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: If I told the aliens could find me, and you know they read this forum Posts: 22,705	There is also going to be a forum welcome table, and buttons that let people know you are new. Ask any questions at the forum table, and there should be fun extra events posted... bowling, meeting up for dinner.. and really just find the BAR. We take over the BAR (near the ice cream, NY Deli, off track betting and slots). Then buy any women drinks (really it's required) and join in! Just sit down and enjoy.
	__________________ WWW.BADALIEN.ORG - not all the buttons work yet, and the science content is coming...but it's ALIVE!

20th April 2010, 04:46 PM	#11
SkepticScott TAM Volunteer Guy Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: North of Boston, Massachusetts Posts: 2,885	Originally Posted by MLynn A good ice breaker is attending the Thursday 5-7pm Welcome reception (if it's done again this year). Free food too. I've been told that yes, there will be a reception Thursday evening. Originally Posted by MLynn Oh, bring extra money if you want to take a cab to the Strip - can be expensive, but then if it's split up in group travel, it's not so bad. The bus is cheaper at $7 for a 24-hour pass, but much slower. Last year I was in Vegas for a couple days before TAM and I used the buses a lot.
	__________________ -- Scott If mho, the unit of conductance, is in units of ¹/_ohm, are IQ and qi similarly inversely related? "I love that you nerds turned a thread about a party into a debate over currency aerodynamics." -- Rebecca

19th April 2010, 11:26 PM	#2
Chris H Magician Among Spirits Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 846	Feast your eyes on this... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9upTLWRZTfw

19th April 2010, 11:28 PM	#3
Chris H Magician Among Spirits Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 846	Sorry. I meant this... http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=164889

20th April 2010, 07:14 AM	#4
habu New Blood Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 20	Very Cool... THANKS Chris!

20th April 2010, 07:21 AM	#5
Chris H Magician Among Spirits Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 846	Originally Posted by habu Very Cool... THANKS Chris! Which one?

20th April 2010, 12:34 PM	#8
Allecher Critical Thinker Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Arkansas Posts: 384	Thanks for asking this, Habu! I am in a similar situation. I read the whole thread that Chris H linked to and now I am hungry for something called Tim Tams.

20th April 2010, 03:48 PM	#10
Dicon is not a radish Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Grumpy in Seattle Posts: 2,966	Originally Posted by habu What pointers, can the TAM vets give a noob like myself ? As long as you have your performance well rehearsed and you don't suffer any wardrobe malfunctions, you'll be fine. Just remember, the theme for this year's Newbie Initiation is "Showtunes from the 40s."

20th April 2010, 05:29 PM	#12
habu New Blood Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 20	Originally Posted by habu Very Cool... THANKS Chris! Originally Posted by Chris H Which one? Both actually Originally Posted by kittynh There is also going to be a forum welcome table, and buttons that let people know you are new. Ask any questions at the forum table, and there should be fun extra events posted... bowling, meeting up for dinner.. and really just find the BAR. We take over the BAR (near the ice cream, NY Deli, off track betting and slots). Then buy any women drinks (really it's required) and join in! Just sit down and enjoy. Duly Noted... buttons, bar, buy drinks. That I can do. Originally Posted by Desktop Icon As long as you have your performance well rehearsed and you don't suffer any wardrobe malfunctions, you'll be fine. Just remember, the theme for this year's Newbie Initiation is "Showtunes from the 40s." I'm hosed.... Thanks for the tips and I'm heading off to the other thread to digest as much of it as I can.

21st April 2010, 02:42 AM	#13
rustypouch Philosopher Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Belfort Posts: 5,114	Don't forget fun with Mr. Pinky.

21st April 2010, 06:37 AM	#14
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Pither Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 42,264	Originally Posted by rustypouch Don't forget fun with Mr. Pinky. That's a given.
	__________________ If I see somebody with a gun on a plane? I'll kill him.

21st April 2010, 09:49 PM	#15
RSLancastr www.StopSylvia.com Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Salem, Oregon Posts: 15,528	I'll reiterate one thing: Don't hesitate to walk up to any of the speakers (up to - and especially - James Randi) and speak with them. Also, be sure to give anyone in a motorized wheel chair a wide clear path. These things are heavy.
	__________________ Who is "Kaz?" Read about her at www.StopKaz.com. Curious about Sylvia Browne? Read about her at www.StopSylvia.com. Ever wonder "What's the Harm?" with psychics, alternative medicine, etc?

21st April 2010, 09:55 PM	#16
Wowbagger The Infinitely Prolonged Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Westchester County, NY (when not in space) Posts: 13,505	I second the notion of not hesitating to speak with the speakers. Even the famous ones. TAM makes it a point of making them accessible to us hoi polloi.
	__________________ WARNING: Phrases in this post may sound meaner than they were intended to be. SkeptiCamp NYC: http://www.skepticampnyc.org/ An open conference on science and skepticism, where *you* could be a presenter! By the way, my first name is NOT Bowerick!!!!

21st April 2010, 10:09 PM	#17
Miss_Kitt Zombie Horse of Homeopathy Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Lesser Seattle Posts: 3,617	Welcome, welcome! A few years ago, I was new on the JREF forum, and going to my first TAM. And since then, it has become the guaranteed event of my year. You are going to have FUN, my friend! First of all, do not hesitate to walk up to people and introduce yourself. Many of us (Forumites) will be wearing badges that have our avatars and Forum names on them, so you can recognize us. Heck, there are still people whose real world names I would not recognize on a bet...but I love dearly. Do take a minute to talk to whomever you'd like to among the speakers, too. Or 'famous skeptics' that you see in the audience. I'm still kicking myself for not having breakfast with Joe Nickell when I had the chance--I had an attack of the 'shys' and just smiled instead of accepting the nod towards the seat by him. Now I realize that he--like about everyone you'll meet at TAM--is genuinely interested in meeting other people who share the worldview of wanting to know what's real, what's keen, and what's funny in the world. Also, I highly recommend attending the talent show, which IIRC is being called a Ham Party this year. That's a complete hoot! Looking forward to meeting, Miss_Kitt aka, "that giraffe and sunset avatar person"
	__________________ It's much better to live an honest life than a delusional one -- desertgal Magic thinking is a lead personal floatation device. It looks really reassuring, but it will drag you down--whatthebutlersaw

21st April 2010, 10:30 PM	#18
RSLancastr www.StopSylvia.com Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Salem, Oregon Posts: 15,528	Originally Posted by Wowbagger I second the notion of not hesitating to speak with the speakers. Even the famous ones. TAM makes it a point of making them accessible to us hoi polloi. I've wondered: is the sigular of hoi polloi, hous pollous?
	__________________ Who is "Kaz?" Read about her at www.StopKaz.com. Curious about Sylvia Browne? Read about her at www.StopSylvia.com. Ever wonder "What's the Harm?" with psychics, alternative medicine, etc?

22nd April 2010, 12:21 AM	#19
RSLancastr www.StopSylvia.com Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Salem, Oregon Posts: 15,528	And, read a report of the coolest TAM experience ever in the history of TAMkind! Actually, a list of my TAM expriences reads like some sort of A Skeptic's Progress: TAMs 1,2 & 3: Couldn't afford to go. TAM4: Sunday paper presenter on Stopping Kaz: One Skeptic's efforts to use the Internet to Stop a religious Charlatan TAM5: interviews by New York Daily News, CNN's Anderson Cooper 360 show and Penn Jillette's radio show TAM5.5: Speaker about Skepticism and Activism TAM6: Spoke about StopSylvia & plans for upcoming Stop Sites TAM7: Received Citizen Skeptic award TAM8: (Watch this space) What a ride!
	__________________ Who is "Kaz?" Read about her at www.StopKaz.com. Curious about Sylvia Browne? Read about her at www.StopSylvia.com. Ever wonder "What's the Harm?" with psychics, alternative medicine, etc?

22nd April 2010, 05:40 AM	#20
kmortis Biomechanoid Director of IDIOCY (Region 13) Moderator Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: New Texas Posts: 24,543	Originally Posted by RSLancastr I'll reiterate one thing: Don't hesitate to walk up to any of the speakers (up to - and especially - James Randi) and speak with them. Also, be sure to give anyone in a motorized wheel chair a wide clear path. These things are heavy. But Rob, that's why I wear steel toed shoes. One caveat to Bob's real point. You're gonna be nervous. You're gonna be tounge tied. Go and chat with them anyway. My only TAM 7 regret is that I didn't chat with Phil more when I had the chance. From the "luminaries" I've heard from (mostly via podcasts) they understand that you're nervous, so you won't be that stupiud sounding. Also, enjoy the little spontaneous moments tha occur. Last year some attendee brought the juggler's pins (they look like bowling pins, but jugglers use them), and he was juggling them in the hall between lectures. Penn and Michael Gudeau walked up and started juggling with him. It was fun.
	__________________ -Aberhaten did it - "Which gives us an answer to our question. What’s the worst thing that can happen in a pressure cooker?" Randall Monroe -Director of Independent Determining Inquisitor Of Crazy Yapping - Aberhaten's Apothegm™ - An Internet law that states that optimism is indistinguishable from sarcasm Last edited by kmortis; 22nd April 2010 at 05:44 AM.

22nd April 2010, 06:32 AM	#21
Allecher Critical Thinker Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Arkansas Posts: 384	Thanks for the reinforcing words, everyone, but now I've got something else to be worried about. What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later? I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize!

22nd April 2010, 06:53 AM	#22
kmortis Biomechanoid Director of IDIOCY (Region 13) Moderator Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: New Texas Posts: 24,543	Originally Posted by Allecher Thanks for the reinforcing words, everyone, but now I've got something else to be worried about. What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later? I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize! Naa...just chat up everybody (except Scrut), and you'll do fine.
	__________________ -Aberhaten did it - "Which gives us an answer to our question. What’s the worst thing that can happen in a pressure cooker?" Randall Monroe -Director of Independent Determining Inquisitor Of Crazy Yapping - Aberhaten's Apothegm™ - An Internet law that states that optimism is indistinguishable from sarcasm

22nd April 2010, 07:57 AM	#23
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Pither Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 42,264	Originally Posted by RSLancastr I've wondered: is the sigular of hoi polloi, hous pollous? Ironically, we were discussing Hoi Polloi at the pub this evening.
	__________________ If I see somebody with a gun on a plane? I'll kill him.

22nd April 2010, 09:12 AM	#24
RSLancastr www.StopSylvia.com Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Salem, Oregon Posts: 15,528	Originally Posted by kmortis But Rob, that's why I wear steel toed shoes. How strong?, between me and the chair, that's somewhere between 450-500 pounds! Quote: One caveat to Bob's real point. You're gonna be nervous. You're gonna be tounge tied. Go and chat with them anyway. My only TAM 7 regret is that I didn't chat with Phil more when I had the chance. From the "luminaries" I've heard from (mostly via podcasts) they understand that you're nervous, so you won't be that stupiud sounding. Wow, Philmore was there? I would have liked to have seen them! Quote: Also, enjoy the little spontaneous moments tha occur. Last year some attendee brought the juggler's pins (they look like bowling pins, but jugglers use them), and he was juggling them in the hall between lectures. Penn and Michael Gudeau walked up and started juggling with him. It was fun. There are definitely some fun and spontaneous moments in the hallways. And some aren't alcohol-fueled!
	__________________ Who is "Kaz?" Read about her at www.StopKaz.com. Curious about Sylvia Browne? Read about her at www.StopSylvia.com. Ever wonder "What's the Harm?" with psychics, alternative medicine, etc?

22nd April 2010, 09:55 AM	#25
kmortis Biomechanoid Director of IDIOCY (Region 13) Moderator Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: New Texas Posts: 24,543	Originally Posted by RSLancastr How strong?, between me and the chair, that's somewhere between 450-500 pounds! WEll, I once had a pallet of bottled water dropped on them. That's slightly over a ton. I think I got ya covered. Quote: Wow, Philmore was there? I would have liked to have seen them! Yeah, and Missers Bergman, Ossman and Proctor were lurking around the corner...carrying pliers. Quote: There are definitely some fun and spontaneous moments in the hallways. And some aren't alcohol-fueled! And always remember kids, to find the lecture halls, turn at the horse's ass.
	__________________ -Aberhaten did it - "Which gives us an answer to our question. What’s the worst thing that can happen in a pressure cooker?" Randall Monroe -Director of Independent Determining Inquisitor Of Crazy Yapping - Aberhaten's Apothegm™ - An Internet law that states that optimism is indistinguishable from sarcasm

22nd April 2010, 09:57 AM	#26
SkepticScott TAM Volunteer Guy Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: North of Boston, Massachusetts Posts: 2,885	Originally Posted by Allecher What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later? I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize! A covert glance at a person's name badge would help. Besides their name, look for a sticker or ribbon. if they have a sticker, it's probably a forum avatar (see http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=170658) speakers will have a ribbon reading "speaker" below their badge Randi and DJ will have ribbons probably reading something like "founder" and "president" Hal will have a "Master of Ceremonies" ribbon volunteers will have "volunteer" ribbons JREF staff will have "staff" ribbons This is unofficial and I may be wrong, but we've always had the ribbons and I don't think we'll stop this year.
	__________________ -- Scott If mho, the unit of conductance, is in units of ¹/_ohm, are IQ and qi similarly inversely related? "I love that you nerds turned a thread about a party into a debate over currency aerodynamics." -- Rebecca

22nd April 2010, 10:03 AM	#27
kmortis Biomechanoid Director of IDIOCY (Region 13) Moderator Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: New Texas Posts: 24,543	Originally Posted by SkepticScott A covert glance at a person's name badge would help. Besides their name, look for a sticker or ribbon. if they have a sticker, it's probably a forum avatar (see http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=170658) speakers will have a ribbon reading "speaker" below their badge Randi and DJ will have ribbons probably reading something like "founder" and "president" Hal will have a "Master of Ceremonies" ribbon volunteers will have "volunteer" ribbons JREF staff will have "staff" ribbons This is unofficial and I may be wrong, but we've always had the ribbons and I don't think we'll stop this year. You can also tell Hal by the number of people around him not laughing at his jokes.
	__________________ -Aberhaten did it - "Which gives us an answer to our question. What’s the worst thing that can happen in a pressure cooker?" Randall Monroe -Director of Independent Determining Inquisitor Of Crazy Yapping - Aberhaten's Apothegm™ - An Internet law that states that optimism is indistinguishable from sarcasm

22nd April 2010, 10:15 AM	#28
SkepticScott TAM Volunteer Guy Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: North of Boston, Massachusetts Posts: 2,885	Originally Posted by kmortis You can also tell Hal by the number of people around him not laughing at his jokes. He's also a source of innumerable puns and the person you want to announce anything important, as everyone who was at TAM1 knows.
	__________________ -- Scott If mho, the unit of conductance, is in units of ¹/_ohm, are IQ and qi similarly inversely related? "I love that you nerds turned a thread about a party into a debate over currency aerodynamics." -- Rebecca

22nd April 2010, 10:47 AM	#29
kmortis Biomechanoid Director of IDIOCY (Region 13) Moderator Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: New Texas Posts: 24,543	Originally Posted by SkepticScott He's also a source of innumerable puns and the person you want to announce anything important, as everyone who was at TAM1 knows. And, honestly, next to RSL hisself, Hal is probably the most approachable of the luminaries at TAM. He's also quite the interesting guy once you get him talking.
	__________________ -Aberhaten did it - "Which gives us an answer to our question. What’s the worst thing that can happen in a pressure cooker?" Randall Monroe -Director of Independent Determining Inquisitor Of Crazy Yapping - Aberhaten's Apothegm™ - An Internet law that states that optimism is indistinguishable from sarcasm

22nd April 2010, 11:14 AM	#30
CriticalThanking Designated Hitter Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: In the queue to Williamsport Posts: 2,159	Originally Posted by Allecher What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later? The first night of my first TAM (5?), I was wandering in the hallway and tried to listen in on a small group of TAMmers. One turned and grabbed me and used me as a prop while he performed a magic trick. I later found out it was Jamie Ian Swiss, whom I had never heard of before. The rest of the crowd was TKingDoll's (another forum old timer) crowd from the UK. Everyone was unbelievably friendly. The more drinks I bought him, the friendlier Marquis de Carabas became. CT

22nd April 2010, 11:33 AM	#31
rustypouch Philosopher Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Belfort Posts: 5,114	Originally Posted by Allecher Thanks for the reinforcing words, everyone, but now I've got something else to be worried about. What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later? I would recognize James Randi, DJ, or Phil, but wow, some of the other names you have mentioned on the forums have me running for Google. I've got some faces to memorize! Why is that a worry? So you're friendly to some C-list celebrity and don't know who they are. Meh. I am sure they like booze and goats.

22nd April 2010, 10:04 PM	#32
Gilmar Muse Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: From the desert to the sea. Posts: 564	The celebs are often there to be with like-minded people as well. As much as it's a value to us, it is to them too. They're pretty approachable.
	__________________ Woo, woo, woo, woo, woo, I'm pulling over the side of the road to let the ambulance drive by. - Senex "World domination is such an ugly phrase. I prefer to call it world optimization." - Less Wrong You can't make Frodo a Jedi without giving Sauron the Death Star. - Less Wrong

23rd April 2010, 05:42 AM	#33
Cuddles Decoy Moderator Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: A magical land full of pink fluffy sheeps and bunnies Posts: 16,566	Originally Posted by Allecher What if I strike up a conversation with some nice fellow and don't realize that it was someone famous until much later? Don't worry, as long as you can recognise Phil, you can recognise most skeptics. They all look pretty much the same. Originally Posted by CriticalThanking I later found out it was Jamie Ian Swiss, whom I had never heard of before. I still haven't heard of him.
	__________________ I am not a little teapot.

23rd April 2010, 06:48 AM	#34
DocM Thinker Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Germany. Mostly. Posts: 155	You may joke about this, but at TAM London that was a major source of confusion. I just asked Phil and Richard Wiseman to sign "Death from the Skies" and "Quirkology" both, since that seemed a bit less embarrassing than asking them who they were. Well, less embarrassing for me...

23rd April 2010, 07:37 AM	#35
NoZed Avenger Bitter Whiner Join Date: Apr 2002 Posts: 11,313	Originally Posted by CriticalThanking The more drinks I bought him, the friendlier Marquis de Carabas became. Dear Lord. What did the clinic say?
	__________________ [This Space Available. PM for Rates.]