iwNEWS: Harry Potter Raises New Orleans

As if there aren't enough ways the franchise is sucking up consumer dollars :)...

Borders, Inc. announced its corporate sponsorship of the The Phoenix Rising conference , dedicated to the exploration and celebration of Harry Potter through lectures, workshops, discussion, Quidditch, artwork and writing, will take place May 17 through May 21 in New Orleans.

During the conference, Borders will support the Riverside Quidditch Classic tournament where Muggles and wizards alike test their skill as a Keeper, Beater, Chaser, or Seeker. The company will sponsor a team called the Borders Potion Masters.

On Saturday, May 19 from 12 to 2 p.m., Susan Aikens, independent reader buyer for Borders, selected as one of Phoenix Rising's Guests of Honor, will participate as a keynote speaker. During her lecture, Transformation: From Boxes to Bookshelves and Beyond, Aikens will speak about the numerous changes the Harry Potter books have had on her field.

Borders will also serve as the exclusive onsite vendor, providing Harry Potter, science fiction and fantasy books during the conference. In addition, Borders will sponsor the discussion panel portion of the conference, including a special discussion titled, Severus Snape: Friend or Foe, where the nature of Professor Snape's loyalty will be debated. The quandary, sure to pit Muggle against Muggle and wizard against wizard, is the centerpiece of an exclusive The Great Snape Debate that Borders and Waldenbooks will carry out in the coming months as fans eagerly await the book's release this summer.

The in-store and on-line campaign, will include events, discussions and surprises and features an exclusive offer when customers visiting their nearest Borders and Waldenbooks store may select from one of two Snape stickers as they reserve a copy of the seventh Harry Potter book. By choosing either the Trust Snape or Snape is a Very Bad Man sticker, customers will take sides on a burning question that has become more compelling with each book in the Harry Potter series.

"The Phoenix Rising conference gives fans of Harry Potter the thrill of celebrating the extraordinary wizardry world that J.K. Rowling has created for us," said Aikens. "To be given the opportunity to support and take part in the discussion of what this book series has done for the book industry and the renewed vigor it has given children's literacy is an honor."

Through this sponsorship, Borders Rewards(TM) members will enjoy 10% off the conference registration fee. Visit a Borders or Waldenbooks store to sign up for the free loyalty program where members earn rewards every time they shop and enjoy exclusive savings every week. For additional information visit the The Phoenix Rising conference website.