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Kijani's Going to Kenya!
General | Posted 6 years agoWhoo haven't posted here in a while but I think it's time to change that... as my last real "bucket list" life goal is about to happen!
For nearly my entire adult life, I've wanted to go on an African Safari and specifically see/photograph lions and other big cats in the wild. I've watched hundreds of hours of National Geographic and Animal Planet specials someday envisioning myself there on the plains of the Masai Mara. Several months ago, I watched a brilliant documentary "Serengeti" and pretty much decided then and there I was going to make this happen. After many hours of research and price comparisons, later that night, I had committed to this trip.
Today I will be embarking on a 20-hour travel day (18 of which will be spent on a plane!) through Frankfurt and onto Nairobi, where I will meet up with my Swiss friend and fellow lion enthusiast Reto Kurmann. We'll spend the evening relaxing at one of Nairobi's finest hotels, the Four Points Sheraton, before embarking on an all-inclusive adventure of a lifetime at 6am the next morning with Bigmac Africa Safaris.
2 days in the Masai Mara, probably the best reserve in Africa to see the Big Five: Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Leopard and Cape Buffalo. Outside of the migration season in the summer, February is the best month for game viewing due to the calving season for the herbivores and that it's nearing the end of the hot/dry season so the waterholes are fewer and far between, causing more wildlife to be concentrated in a smaller area. We'll also get to visit the village of the local people, the Maasai, to learn their history and culture, and way of life.
Then 1 day up north at Lake Nakuru National Park, home to around 400 bird species and the white rhino, among more than 50 other mammals. Will be nice to be near water as temps will probably be in the low 80s.
And then 2 days at Amboseli National Park to the south, in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. As a photographer one of my goals for this trip is to get some good landscape shots of the "Roof of Africa" in the background to show the immense scale of the continent's tallest peak.
Besides the flights (total of 39 flying hours and 5 flight legs round-trip), the only thing I'm not looking forward to is the travel time between parks - we're commuting by road and it's about 4 hours from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, 5 hours from there to Nakuru and almost 7 to Amboseli. But small price to pay to see what we will see. Our first lodging is also quite bare-bones (tented camp near the entrance to the Mara), with generator-run electricity for only a few hours in the morning/evening, and water that's only hot when it wants to be, based on recent reviews. But hey, it's part of the Africa experience, basically roughing it out in the bush.
South Africa in 2018 was a great experience in its own way - this time I won't get to nuzzle cheetahs or care for lion cubs, but I feel this trip will be more meaningful and special to see raw, wild Africa - the vast landscapes, incredible wildlife diversity and microcosm of life and death on the savanna that you can't get from a touristy game park. If anything, this itinerary seems too short (6 days, 5 nights). But I know I'll be back and perhaps can book a longer and more luxurious safari another time. Until then, I'll have a week's worth of memories and a very full 128GB SD card full of photos and videos of my very first safari adventure!
I'll try to keep everyone updated but Wifi/Cell signal will be very spotty at most our our locations. At the least I'll make a lengthy post during my 5-hour layover in Frankfurt on my way home :)
For nearly my entire adult life, I've wanted to go on an African Safari and specifically see/photograph lions and other big cats in the wild. I've watched hundreds of hours of National Geographic and Animal Planet specials someday envisioning myself there on the plains of the Masai Mara. Several months ago, I watched a brilliant documentary "Serengeti" and pretty much decided then and there I was going to make this happen. After many hours of research and price comparisons, later that night, I had committed to this trip.
Today I will be embarking on a 20-hour travel day (18 of which will be spent on a plane!) through Frankfurt and onto Nairobi, where I will meet up with my Swiss friend and fellow lion enthusiast Reto Kurmann. We'll spend the evening relaxing at one of Nairobi's finest hotels, the Four Points Sheraton, before embarking on an all-inclusive adventure of a lifetime at 6am the next morning with Bigmac Africa Safaris.
2 days in the Masai Mara, probably the best reserve in Africa to see the Big Five: Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Leopard and Cape Buffalo. Outside of the migration season in the summer, February is the best month for game viewing due to the calving season for the herbivores and that it's nearing the end of the hot/dry season so the waterholes are fewer and far between, causing more wildlife to be concentrated in a smaller area. We'll also get to visit the village of the local people, the Maasai, to learn their history and culture, and way of life.
Then 1 day up north at Lake Nakuru National Park, home to around 400 bird species and the white rhino, among more than 50 other mammals. Will be nice to be near water as temps will probably be in the low 80s.
And then 2 days at Amboseli National Park to the south, in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. As a photographer one of my goals for this trip is to get some good landscape shots of the "Roof of Africa" in the background to show the immense scale of the continent's tallest peak.
Besides the flights (total of 39 flying hours and 5 flight legs round-trip), the only thing I'm not looking forward to is the travel time between parks - we're commuting by road and it's about 4 hours from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, 5 hours from there to Nakuru and almost 7 to Amboseli. But small price to pay to see what we will see. Our first lodging is also quite bare-bones (tented camp near the entrance to the Mara), with generator-run electricity for only a few hours in the morning/evening, and water that's only hot when it wants to be, based on recent reviews. But hey, it's part of the Africa experience, basically roughing it out in the bush.
South Africa in 2018 was a great experience in its own way - this time I won't get to nuzzle cheetahs or care for lion cubs, but I feel this trip will be more meaningful and special to see raw, wild Africa - the vast landscapes, incredible wildlife diversity and microcosm of life and death on the savanna that you can't get from a touristy game park. If anything, this itinerary seems too short (6 days, 5 nights). But I know I'll be back and perhaps can book a longer and more luxurious safari another time. Until then, I'll have a week's worth of memories and a very full 128GB SD card full of photos and videos of my very first safari adventure!
I'll try to keep everyone updated but Wifi/Cell signal will be very spotty at most our our locations. At the least I'll make a lengthy post during my 5-hour layover in Frankfurt on my way home :)
AC 2019 Meme
General | Posted 6 years agoAAAAAH I HAVEN'T POSTED ON FA IN FOREVER! But I'm heading back to Pittsburgh this year after missing my first AC in 9 years last year. Super excited!
----
Arrival:
I will arrive at the Westin around 4:30pm Thursday
Means of transportation:
Flying - taking that sweet direct flight on Alaska heading out, and Southwest heading back.
Sharing a room with:
Two amazing friends
fuzzyhubcap and 
orangebolt
Hanging out with:
With the roomies some of the time, otherwise anyone that wants to
How tall are you?
6'
Physical Appearance?
Asian, short black spiky hair & glasses, wearing lion-related shirt and tail usually.
Are you an Artist?
The art is in my fursuit performance, and my photography which will be in the Art Show once again.
Do you have a sketchbook?
Nope.
Can you draw in my sketchbook?
You don't want me to do that...
Are you a Fursuiter?
Yes! I am bringing Kijani and he will be decked out in Surf Pacific themed wear (matching blue Hawaiian shirt and boardshorts) when out and about at the con.
Attending parties?
Lion King Room Party at the Drury friday night! (I'll be there late due to a panel conflict but better late than never!)
Do you drink?
Like a fish! Oh you mean alcohol? Yes, on occasion.
Do you smoke?
Ribs, salmon... mmm *drools* Oh you mean like cigarettes? GROSS!
Hosting/Attending Panels?
I am bringing back Wheel of Furtune - Friday night at 8pm in DLCC 406. I have a high standard for all my Game Show panels and hope to do another bang-up job this year.
Other than that, just a few meet and greets (African Species caught my eye!) The fursuit dance comp is a must-see for me.
Stage or public performance?
Nah, I prefer to watch.
How do I identify myself to you?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!) I am really good with faces and bad with (complicated fursona) names, so if we have met before please remind me your name to jog my memory - especially since I haven't been to AC in 2 years :)
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Hugs are great!
Best way to contact?
Twitter and Telegram kijani_lion
Can I talk to you?
Yes!!!! Some of the most enjoyable moments for me at Anthrocon are meeting new people and fans of my videos. If they have inspired you in some way, or you otherwise enjoy my work please let me know
Can I give you stuff?
Stuff: matter, material, articles, or activities of a specified or indeterminate kind that are being referred to, indicated, or implied.
Okay sure!
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs make the world go round. Snuggles are only for certain people, in suit only, and not in public areas of the con.
Can I come to dinner with you?
Please ask in advance, some of our dinners will have reservations (that can be adjusted with notice). But sharing a meal with friends at a con is a most enjoyable experience.
Can I hang out with you?
I'm pretty busy at AC and usually on the move, but if you're okay with that, sure. Just don't be creepy stalker guy!
Can I take your picture?
Sure, in or out of suit.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
The only time I can't really socialize is if I'm heading to an event or panel or have some kind of engagement, and I'll probably politely let you know if that's the case. Otherwise I have never been too angry or upset at AC to socialize.
Personality Type?
I am extremely friendly and easygoing, especially at a big con like AC. Can be shy at first among people I don't know well, but open up quickly if we have something in common.
What's your goal for the con this year?
- See and spend time with friends and acquaintances I only get to see once a year
- Fursuit more than I ever have at AC
- Do a great job hosting Wheel
- Do well in the Art Show (I said last year will be my final time if I didn't do well, and I had by far my best year ever, you guys are amazing) - I do have two very nice canvases of my most popular works in there this year.
I think that's it... let me know if you're going and see you next week in Pittsburgh!
----
Arrival:
I will arrive at the Westin around 4:30pm Thursday
Means of transportation:
Flying - taking that sweet direct flight on Alaska heading out, and Southwest heading back.
Sharing a room with:
Two amazing friends
fuzzyhubcap and 
orangeboltHanging out with:
With the roomies some of the time, otherwise anyone that wants to
How tall are you?
6'
Physical Appearance?
Asian, short black spiky hair & glasses, wearing lion-related shirt and tail usually.
Are you an Artist?
The art is in my fursuit performance, and my photography which will be in the Art Show once again.
Do you have a sketchbook?
Nope.
Can you draw in my sketchbook?
You don't want me to do that...
Are you a Fursuiter?
Yes! I am bringing Kijani and he will be decked out in Surf Pacific themed wear (matching blue Hawaiian shirt and boardshorts) when out and about at the con.
Attending parties?
Lion King Room Party at the Drury friday night! (I'll be there late due to a panel conflict but better late than never!)
Do you drink?
Like a fish! Oh you mean alcohol? Yes, on occasion.
Do you smoke?
Ribs, salmon... mmm *drools* Oh you mean like cigarettes? GROSS!
Hosting/Attending Panels?
I am bringing back Wheel of Furtune - Friday night at 8pm in DLCC 406. I have a high standard for all my Game Show panels and hope to do another bang-up job this year.
Other than that, just a few meet and greets (African Species caught my eye!) The fursuit dance comp is a must-see for me.
Stage or public performance?
Nah, I prefer to watch.
How do I identify myself to you?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!) I am really good with faces and bad with (complicated fursona) names, so if we have met before please remind me your name to jog my memory - especially since I haven't been to AC in 2 years :)
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Hugs are great!
Best way to contact?
Twitter and Telegram kijani_lion
Can I talk to you?
Yes!!!! Some of the most enjoyable moments for me at Anthrocon are meeting new people and fans of my videos. If they have inspired you in some way, or you otherwise enjoy my work please let me know
Can I give you stuff?
Stuff: matter, material, articles, or activities of a specified or indeterminate kind that are being referred to, indicated, or implied.
Okay sure!
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs make the world go round. Snuggles are only for certain people, in suit only, and not in public areas of the con.
Can I come to dinner with you?
Please ask in advance, some of our dinners will have reservations (that can be adjusted with notice). But sharing a meal with friends at a con is a most enjoyable experience.
Can I hang out with you?
I'm pretty busy at AC and usually on the move, but if you're okay with that, sure. Just don't be creepy stalker guy!
Can I take your picture?
Sure, in or out of suit.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
The only time I can't really socialize is if I'm heading to an event or panel or have some kind of engagement, and I'll probably politely let you know if that's the case. Otherwise I have never been too angry or upset at AC to socialize.
Personality Type?
I am extremely friendly and easygoing, especially at a big con like AC. Can be shy at first among people I don't know well, but open up quickly if we have something in common.
What's your goal for the con this year?
- See and spend time with friends and acquaintances I only get to see once a year
- Fursuit more than I ever have at AC
- Do a great job hosting Wheel
- Do well in the Art Show (I said last year will be my final time if I didn't do well, and I had by far my best year ever, you guys are amazing) - I do have two very nice canvases of my most popular works in there this year.
I think that's it... let me know if you're going and see you next week in Pittsburgh!
Photos and Video from South Africa!
General | Posted 7 years agoI forgot to post my write-up from Africa here! It was absolutely an adventure of a lifetime and truly a dream come true. So many unforgettable experiences.
Here's nearly 700 photos in 6 different albums up on my Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kijanilion/albums and many videos are up on my YouTube channel - here are some links:
Walking with White Lions
Walking with Cheetahs
Playing with Lion Cubs
Safari Tour and Game Drive Highlights
And here was the journal entry I posted while in the middle of a 26-hour journey home at London-Heathrow airport a few weeks ago:
Sitting here at London-Heathrow airport in the middle of a 26-hour journey home, it's hard to put into words how I feel after the greatest adventure of my life. Yes I miss my own bed, decent internet and my friends... but I can't believe it's over and I feel these 2 weeks went by way too fast.
It wasn't perfect, and being Africa I didn't expect it to be, but all the truly incredible things I got to experience over the last two weeks were beyond my wildest dreams. Some personal highlights:
- The diversity of wildlife we got to see, in all its magnificent forms: A baby hyena snuggling up next to its mother, at complete peace... A pride of lions feeding, with the dominant male stealing his cub's portions for himself... Feeling a full-grown cheetah's soft fur as he purred contentedly... A leopard licking its paws in the late afternoon shade... Being nuzzled by a giraffe while trying to take a selfie... Having a pack of wild dogs run in tandem with our vehicle before splashing around at the waterhole... Being dropped off right in the middle of a herd of wildebeest with their deadly horns, eyes locked onto me, a stranger in their land, as I carefully laid down their supplemental feed... Walking with the largest land mammal, the African Elephant, hand-in-trunk... It was like watching the coolest National Geographic show ever, except we were the directors behind the camera, there in person.
- Surviving the once-in-a-century hail storm, and helping the park staff clean up some of the debris and damage afterwards. Sadly some animals perished, but thus is the Circle of Life.
- Spending time with and caring for the cubs. Over the two weeks we learned their own unique personalities. I honestly felt a little guilty as the park was forced to continue the practice of cub interactions in order to stay open (all our competitors offer it, it's the main tourism draw), but the educational outreach part of it was good, and if we could get some of our guests to care a bit more about lion conservation then it's all worthwhile.
- Getting to interact with Nigel, an 8-month-old lion. When we got there we were disallowed from entering his enclosure, even with a guide, but by the end of the program the staff trusted us enough to go inside on our own. Nigel is that unique age where he's just beginning adolescence, very playful yet starting to show showing his big cat tendencies. In the heat of the day while he was resting he allowed us to touch his paw pads, stroke his newly forming mane and even inspect his teeth! It was amazing to get that close to such a magnificent animal.
- Watching Alex Larenty hug a full-grown lion and making the other lionesses snarl on cue. Animal behaviorism is fascinating work, especially with big cats, and something I would love to learn more about in the future.
- And finally getting to meet and interact with people from all over the world. I probably put in at least 4 hours of work on the weekends greeting guests, answering their questions (my favorite one probably was "If a cub bites me, is it fatal?") and instructing them on how to safely interact with young versions of one of the world's most fearsome predators. We had a great volunteer group as well, only oneI had met in person before, but we were all brought together with a common love for animals and big cats. We shared countless laughs and great memories over dinners, overcoming the language barrier (I was the only native English speaker). Huge thanks to
kitwanalion for inviting me along for this adventure, it wouldn't have happened without him!
I know it won't be my last time on this continent, and while I'm not sure when or where I'll visit next (perhaps Kenya/Tanzania) I'm so fortunate that I've had this opportunity to live out my #1 life dream. Thank you all for following along and I hope it was fun and educational!
Here's nearly 700 photos in 6 different albums up on my Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kijanilion/albums and many videos are up on my YouTube channel - here are some links:
Walking with White Lions
Walking with Cheetahs
Playing with Lion Cubs
Safari Tour and Game Drive Highlights
And here was the journal entry I posted while in the middle of a 26-hour journey home at London-Heathrow airport a few weeks ago:
Sitting here at London-Heathrow airport in the middle of a 26-hour journey home, it's hard to put into words how I feel after the greatest adventure of my life. Yes I miss my own bed, decent internet and my friends... but I can't believe it's over and I feel these 2 weeks went by way too fast.
It wasn't perfect, and being Africa I didn't expect it to be, but all the truly incredible things I got to experience over the last two weeks were beyond my wildest dreams. Some personal highlights:
- The diversity of wildlife we got to see, in all its magnificent forms: A baby hyena snuggling up next to its mother, at complete peace... A pride of lions feeding, with the dominant male stealing his cub's portions for himself... Feeling a full-grown cheetah's soft fur as he purred contentedly... A leopard licking its paws in the late afternoon shade... Being nuzzled by a giraffe while trying to take a selfie... Having a pack of wild dogs run in tandem with our vehicle before splashing around at the waterhole... Being dropped off right in the middle of a herd of wildebeest with their deadly horns, eyes locked onto me, a stranger in their land, as I carefully laid down their supplemental feed... Walking with the largest land mammal, the African Elephant, hand-in-trunk... It was like watching the coolest National Geographic show ever, except we were the directors behind the camera, there in person.
- Surviving the once-in-a-century hail storm, and helping the park staff clean up some of the debris and damage afterwards. Sadly some animals perished, but thus is the Circle of Life.
- Spending time with and caring for the cubs. Over the two weeks we learned their own unique personalities. I honestly felt a little guilty as the park was forced to continue the practice of cub interactions in order to stay open (all our competitors offer it, it's the main tourism draw), but the educational outreach part of it was good, and if we could get some of our guests to care a bit more about lion conservation then it's all worthwhile.
- Getting to interact with Nigel, an 8-month-old lion. When we got there we were disallowed from entering his enclosure, even with a guide, but by the end of the program the staff trusted us enough to go inside on our own. Nigel is that unique age where he's just beginning adolescence, very playful yet starting to show showing his big cat tendencies. In the heat of the day while he was resting he allowed us to touch his paw pads, stroke his newly forming mane and even inspect his teeth! It was amazing to get that close to such a magnificent animal.
- Watching Alex Larenty hug a full-grown lion and making the other lionesses snarl on cue. Animal behaviorism is fascinating work, especially with big cats, and something I would love to learn more about in the future.
- And finally getting to meet and interact with people from all over the world. I probably put in at least 4 hours of work on the weekends greeting guests, answering their questions (my favorite one probably was "If a cub bites me, is it fatal?") and instructing them on how to safely interact with young versions of one of the world's most fearsome predators. We had a great volunteer group as well, only oneI had met in person before, but we were all brought together with a common love for animals and big cats. We shared countless laughs and great memories over dinners, overcoming the language barrier (I was the only native English speaker). Huge thanks to
kitwanalion for inviting me along for this adventure, it wouldn't have happened without him!I know it won't be my last time on this continent, and while I'm not sure when or where I'll visit next (perhaps Kenya/Tanzania) I'm so fortunate that I've had this opportunity to live out my #1 life dream. Thank you all for following along and I hope it was fun and educational!
A Lion Heads to Africa...
General | Posted 7 years agoWe all have those life goals and "bucket list" things that we want to accomplish or experience sometime in our existence... and I am incredibly excited to make mine a reality very soon!
On Saturday, I will spend nearly 21 hours on an airplane flying through London on my way to South Africa where I will meet up with kitwanalion 
tambako and a bunch of European furs.
We will be doing a 2-week volunteer program at a 1500-acre wildlife reserve about 45 minutes outside of Johannesburg, the Lion & Safari Park, where we will get to basically become staff of the park during the day. Part of our assigned duties are basic things like feeding baby animals, preparing food, cleaning enclosures, interacting with park guests etc. but also included in the package are some unbelievable experiences, such as:
- Getting to walk with adolescent lions and full-grown cheetahs in their natural habitat (separately, of course, and under the instruction of trained guides - This is something I've only dreamed about and I will probably get emotional when it really happens)
- Feeding and caring for the many lion cubs on property
- A guided safari night drive during a lion feeding
- A 2-hour tour with world-renowned animal behaviorist Alex Larenty, who interacts with full-grown lions
- A river rafting excursion where we'll see many species native only to that part of South Africa
- Spending time with researchers tracking, capturing and collecting data for conservation
- A traditional Braai BBQ out in the bush
And so much more. Stuff that I'd watch on Animal Planet or Nat Geo growing up and think "wow that'd be so cool to experience that someday!" Well, it's almost time to do it for real. I have literally waited my entire adult life for this and I still can't believe it's about to happen.
Gonna work one last shift tonight and then pack on Friday and relax as much as I can before I embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Although I heard the wi-fi is spotty down there I will try to update as often as I can on my personal Facebook page (link is in my contact info) and Twitter kijani_lion.
On Saturday, I will spend nearly 21 hours on an airplane flying through London on my way to South Africa where I will meet up with
kitwanalion 
tambako and a bunch of European furs.We will be doing a 2-week volunteer program at a 1500-acre wildlife reserve about 45 minutes outside of Johannesburg, the Lion & Safari Park, where we will get to basically become staff of the park during the day. Part of our assigned duties are basic things like feeding baby animals, preparing food, cleaning enclosures, interacting with park guests etc. but also included in the package are some unbelievable experiences, such as:
- Getting to walk with adolescent lions and full-grown cheetahs in their natural habitat (separately, of course, and under the instruction of trained guides - This is something I've only dreamed about and I will probably get emotional when it really happens)
- Feeding and caring for the many lion cubs on property
- A guided safari night drive during a lion feeding
- A 2-hour tour with world-renowned animal behaviorist Alex Larenty, who interacts with full-grown lions
- A river rafting excursion where we'll see many species native only to that part of South Africa
- Spending time with researchers tracking, capturing and collecting data for conservation
- A traditional Braai BBQ out in the bush
And so much more. Stuff that I'd watch on Animal Planet or Nat Geo growing up and think "wow that'd be so cool to experience that someday!" Well, it's almost time to do it for real. I have literally waited my entire adult life for this and I still can't believe it's about to happen.
Gonna work one last shift tonight and then pack on Friday and relax as much as I can before I embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Although I heard the wi-fi is spotty down there I will try to update as often as I can on my personal Facebook page (link is in my contact info) and Twitter kijani_lion.
BLFC 2018 Meme
General | Posted 7 years agoBLFC 2018 Con Meme Thing - yoinked from 
wolfstang
Arrival and Departure:
Arriving Thursday mid-afternoon, departing Monday early afternoon
Staying at:
The GSR, where else?
Con Roomies:
chaosreign 
swaggyaces 
incogthedeer (his first con!!!)
Mode of transportation:
A big noisy metallic bird in the sky
Major plans at the Con:
As always I love this con so much I am doing and hosting a LOT of panels and events - Charity Blackjack Tournament (Friday 3pm), Bowling Tournament (Sunday 8:30pm), Game Show Extravaganza (Furry Feud and Furry Press Your Luck - Saturday 11am-1pm), also hosting Casino Gaming 101 Friday morning. Other than that just hanging out, doing the fursuit go karts, (hopefully) taking some of the GSR's money and seeing all the wonderful people I only get to see once or twice a year.
Who will I be with:
Probably be with Chaos most of the time and likely Incog as I show him around and make sure his first con experience is a great one!
Fursuits:
Kijani... really want to bring Jelani as well but don't think I can swing it this year since I'm flying.
Attending parties:
If I'm invited to one... someone put together a lion/lion king party!
How best to get ahold of me:
kijani_lion on Twitter or Telegram is by far the best way!
Stage performance:
If hosting game shows on Second Stage counts! Gotta channel my inner Steve Harvey...
Hugs:
YES! In or out of suit! They make the world go round!
Talk:
Sure! I love meeting new people and catching up with old friends. I don't like to talk in suit but have no problem saying "hi" when I'm out performing.
Art:
Photography and fursuit performance are my only art forms.
How old are you?
32
Can I buy you lots of drinks?
If you want! Or we can just go to the casino floor and get them for free!
How tall are you?
6 feet... out of suit
Are you nice?
Friendliest lion around!
Are you cliquey?
Never. I enjoy company of all parties.
Do you like parties?
As long as people aren't getting too wasted, but that's not really my scene anyways. Social gatherings are great!
If I see you, how should I get your attention?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!) I am really good with faces and bad with (complicated fursona) names, so if we have met before please remind me your name to jog my memory.
Are you fursuiting?
As much as I can with my busy con schedule. Definitely going to the Fursuit Festival!
Can I ask ya to dance with me during the dances?
I'm not sure if you can call what I do "dancing" but definitely!
Can I take a picture of ya?
Sure!
See everyone next week!!! Due to my South Africa trip in October this will be my ONLY out-of-state con all year so I'm going to make the most of it!
wolfstangArrival and Departure:
Arriving Thursday mid-afternoon, departing Monday early afternoon
Staying at:
The GSR, where else?
Con Roomies:
chaosreign 
swaggyaces 
incogthedeer (his first con!!!)Mode of transportation:
A big noisy metallic bird in the sky
Major plans at the Con:
As always I love this con so much I am doing and hosting a LOT of panels and events - Charity Blackjack Tournament (Friday 3pm), Bowling Tournament (Sunday 8:30pm), Game Show Extravaganza (Furry Feud and Furry Press Your Luck - Saturday 11am-1pm), also hosting Casino Gaming 101 Friday morning. Other than that just hanging out, doing the fursuit go karts, (hopefully) taking some of the GSR's money and seeing all the wonderful people I only get to see once or twice a year.
Who will I be with:
Probably be with Chaos most of the time and likely Incog as I show him around and make sure his first con experience is a great one!
Fursuits:
Kijani... really want to bring Jelani as well but don't think I can swing it this year since I'm flying.
Attending parties:
If I'm invited to one... someone put together a lion/lion king party!
How best to get ahold of me:
kijani_lion on Twitter or Telegram is by far the best way!
Stage performance:
If hosting game shows on Second Stage counts! Gotta channel my inner Steve Harvey...
Hugs:
YES! In or out of suit! They make the world go round!
Talk:
Sure! I love meeting new people and catching up with old friends. I don't like to talk in suit but have no problem saying "hi" when I'm out performing.
Art:
Photography and fursuit performance are my only art forms.
How old are you?
32
Can I buy you lots of drinks?
If you want! Or we can just go to the casino floor and get them for free!
How tall are you?
6 feet... out of suit
Are you nice?
Friendliest lion around!
Are you cliquey?
Never. I enjoy company of all parties.
Do you like parties?
As long as people aren't getting too wasted, but that's not really my scene anyways. Social gatherings are great!
If I see you, how should I get your attention?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!) I am really good with faces and bad with (complicated fursona) names, so if we have met before please remind me your name to jog my memory.
Are you fursuiting?
As much as I can with my busy con schedule. Definitely going to the Fursuit Festival!
Can I ask ya to dance with me during the dances?
I'm not sure if you can call what I do "dancing" but definitely!
Can I take a picture of ya?
Sure!
See everyone next week!!! Due to my South Africa trip in October this will be my ONLY out-of-state con all year so I'm going to make the most of it!
Fursuiting: For the Kids 9th Edition (VIDEO)
General | Posted 8 years agoOn this Christmas Eve, Santa Lion brought his present early - the long-awaited 9th installment of Fursuiting: For the Kids, and the kid in all of us! I usually release this on Thanksgiving, but this will be worth the wait I am so very thankful for the opportunity to be able to brighten the lives of children of all ages through fursuit performance - there's no better feeling than putting on your costume and bringing smiles and joy to others,while doing good for charities, the local community, and beyond.
If you enjoyed this video, please share it with those close to you and help spread the Magic of Fursuiting during this joyous holiday season!
Thanks to the following people who helped shoot the raw video for this compilation:
ChaosReign
talexis
Hashna
phillyphox
conqureOkee Doggee
Prof. Kijani ENG 366 at Furry U. - New Fursuit Video Series!
General | Posted 8 years agoStarting up a new #FursuitFriday series, after getting canned for throwing pizzas in the final joke skit, I got a job teaching a college course (ENG 366) at Furry University!
In this course we explore the many ways that English is the most insane, nonsensical and frustrating language on the planet. Hope you enjoy this series, learn a little something and have a few laughs along the way.
New courses will appear every TWO weeks on my channel, I'll post them here too. I'm pretty happy with the potential for this series and I hope you guys like them :)
Anthrocon 2017 Sunday Journal
General | Posted 8 years ago(Sorry for the late post, but I wanted to put this up for completeness)
Sundays at Anthrocon have been frighteningly similar for me for the past many years and this one followed a very similar schedule - woke up around 10am and headed to Pizza Parma to use my last free meal ticket for Pizza Parma (I actually used all of them this year, yaay!) and while my body was trying to figure out why I put pizza in it at 10am, I went to the dealer's room to check a few things - No, I did not win anything in the Charity Raffle for the 4th straight year although I put more money in this year than I ever have (now I know how everyone feels in the prize raffle I run at the local furry bowling meet/mini-con) and thankfully everything except ONE of my art pieces sold in the show, which was quite a relief.
I actually got very lucky and was able to make a private sale on my way out which may or may not have broke the art show's rules but what's done is done and both parties were satisfied, so I actually didn't have to take anything home with me.
I did win one of the pieces I bid on in the Mature gallery, so I decided not to go wild on the ones I wanted in the general section, though I did place a hefty bid on a
hibbary original of a gorgeous lion, I love her art, but I did get outbid by one of the folks from the Lion party last night, which I actually expected since he told me he wanted that one too and I couldn't stick around to defend my bid as I was to record the Dance Competition.
Speaking of the Dance Comp, the most highly anticipated and my personal favorite event of the entire weekend, the organizer
skyryd3r (Ronnie) offered to have me sit up front again to record video for all the dancers, which I did. I sat in the perfect spot and had a little opening through the large speakers in the front of the stage, so a lot of the time I had a completely clear shot when the dancer was performing anywhere near midstage.
The entries seem to get better and better every year (been to every AC dance comp since 2010) and it's become not so much a show as a spectacle of the best of the best the fandom has to offer. One group entry in particular (not even the winning one!) Lenny Face (featuring the ultra-talented Tayerr) was probably the best non-solo dance I've ever seen. There were so many incredible individual efforts but was very glad to see
strobes come out on top! I'm used to him and 
galefrostbane performing together as an adorable couple but they split up this year, and it made it possible for him to win individually. Regardless, it was an awesome show and I am really looking forward to posting the dances for everyone to see, I know they appreciate it.
That took until mid-afternoon when I had to check out from the Art Show, which was surprisingly quick and painless this year with no credit card shutdowns and adequate staff. I didn't do as well as last year, but definitely well enough to want to come back next year, hopefully with some new content to offer.
After that, I decided to suit to Closing Ceremonies like I did last year - fursuiting icon
coopertom (also Fender) himself said that Closing Ceremonies is his favorite time of the con to perform, and I'd have to agree with him as it seems there are more people packed into the DLCC than at any other time, which makes it great for interactions, photos and shout-outs, which I got plenty of - a number of people said they hadn't seen me in suit the whole con and were so glad they ran into me at Closing.
Closing was pretty standard fare, AC did see a very slight increase in attendance to just above 7,500 which means it is very likely MFF will pass it in December as the world's largest, which is totally okay by Uncle Kage. Like Tyco at BLFC, they both said something very similar at Closing, something to the effect that it's not about the numbers and who's the biggest, but about delivering the best possible convention experience to the attendees.
Over $35,000 in total (after a lot of last-minute additions) was raised for the great charity, Hope Haven (who actually had never received a 5-figure check ever before in their history) so that was really cool.
Suited for a little while more before heading back to the room and relaxed for a bit before the Staff Dinner. That was actually a little disappointing this year as there was no beef option (I heard there were beef tips at the SUpersponsor luncheon), just roast chicken and salmon and a mushroom risotto which honestly wasn't very good along with a few sides. I did get to talk to my Publications department head
xydexx for a bit and we discussed how things went this year and the difficulty of communicating and hitting deadlines with Programming this year, seems there's going to be a bit of personnel shakeup so hopefully we can get that ironed out next year.
Speaking of next year, I am highly uncertain that I will be able to attend Anthrocon due to the fact that I will be going to Africa for the first time in October to volunteer on a big cat reserve, one of my lifelong dreams. I'm also going to Disney World earlier in the year and I don't want to miss BLFC with all I do for that con (including a charity event) so something has to give.
But I really had an amazing weekend as usual, a lot of that was my great con roommates and all the fun times and stories we shared at dinners (we ate together every night of the con except Sunday), and all the amazing people I met and those that said that I was the one that inspired them to start fursuiting or build their own costume, really makes the long trip worth it.
Sundays at Anthrocon have been frighteningly similar for me for the past many years and this one followed a very similar schedule - woke up around 10am and headed to Pizza Parma to use my last free meal ticket for Pizza Parma (I actually used all of them this year, yaay!) and while my body was trying to figure out why I put pizza in it at 10am, I went to the dealer's room to check a few things - No, I did not win anything in the Charity Raffle for the 4th straight year although I put more money in this year than I ever have (now I know how everyone feels in the prize raffle I run at the local furry bowling meet/mini-con) and thankfully everything except ONE of my art pieces sold in the show, which was quite a relief.
I actually got very lucky and was able to make a private sale on my way out which may or may not have broke the art show's rules but what's done is done and both parties were satisfied, so I actually didn't have to take anything home with me.
I did win one of the pieces I bid on in the Mature gallery, so I decided not to go wild on the ones I wanted in the general section, though I did place a hefty bid on a
hibbary original of a gorgeous lion, I love her art, but I did get outbid by one of the folks from the Lion party last night, which I actually expected since he told me he wanted that one too and I couldn't stick around to defend my bid as I was to record the Dance Competition.Speaking of the Dance Comp, the most highly anticipated and my personal favorite event of the entire weekend, the organizer
skyryd3r (Ronnie) offered to have me sit up front again to record video for all the dancers, which I did. I sat in the perfect spot and had a little opening through the large speakers in the front of the stage, so a lot of the time I had a completely clear shot when the dancer was performing anywhere near midstage.The entries seem to get better and better every year (been to every AC dance comp since 2010) and it's become not so much a show as a spectacle of the best of the best the fandom has to offer. One group entry in particular (not even the winning one!) Lenny Face (featuring the ultra-talented Tayerr) was probably the best non-solo dance I've ever seen. There were so many incredible individual efforts but was very glad to see
strobes come out on top! I'm used to him and 
galefrostbane performing together as an adorable couple but they split up this year, and it made it possible for him to win individually. Regardless, it was an awesome show and I am really looking forward to posting the dances for everyone to see, I know they appreciate it.That took until mid-afternoon when I had to check out from the Art Show, which was surprisingly quick and painless this year with no credit card shutdowns and adequate staff. I didn't do as well as last year, but definitely well enough to want to come back next year, hopefully with some new content to offer.
After that, I decided to suit to Closing Ceremonies like I did last year - fursuiting icon
coopertom (also Fender) himself said that Closing Ceremonies is his favorite time of the con to perform, and I'd have to agree with him as it seems there are more people packed into the DLCC than at any other time, which makes it great for interactions, photos and shout-outs, which I got plenty of - a number of people said they hadn't seen me in suit the whole con and were so glad they ran into me at Closing.Closing was pretty standard fare, AC did see a very slight increase in attendance to just above 7,500 which means it is very likely MFF will pass it in December as the world's largest, which is totally okay by Uncle Kage. Like Tyco at BLFC, they both said something very similar at Closing, something to the effect that it's not about the numbers and who's the biggest, but about delivering the best possible convention experience to the attendees.
Over $35,000 in total (after a lot of last-minute additions) was raised for the great charity, Hope Haven (who actually had never received a 5-figure check ever before in their history) so that was really cool.
Suited for a little while more before heading back to the room and relaxed for a bit before the Staff Dinner. That was actually a little disappointing this year as there was no beef option (I heard there were beef tips at the SUpersponsor luncheon), just roast chicken and salmon and a mushroom risotto which honestly wasn't very good along with a few sides. I did get to talk to my Publications department head
xydexx for a bit and we discussed how things went this year and the difficulty of communicating and hitting deadlines with Programming this year, seems there's going to be a bit of personnel shakeup so hopefully we can get that ironed out next year.Speaking of next year, I am highly uncertain that I will be able to attend Anthrocon due to the fact that I will be going to Africa for the first time in October to volunteer on a big cat reserve, one of my lifelong dreams. I'm also going to Disney World earlier in the year and I don't want to miss BLFC with all I do for that con (including a charity event) so something has to give.
But I really had an amazing weekend as usual, a lot of that was my great con roommates and all the fun times and stories we shared at dinners (we ate together every night of the con except Sunday), and all the amazing people I met and those that said that I was the one that inspired them to start fursuiting or build their own costume, really makes the long trip worth it.
Live From the Con - Anthrocon 2017 (Saturday)
General | Posted 8 years agoI've been coming to Anthrocon for 8 years now, and there are some things, some experiences I've never gotten to do in those 8 years for one reason or another, and I was able to knock one of those off the list today... *teaser* but before I get into that (one of my most fun experiences ever at the con) let me recap what was another glorious day in Pittsburgh.
One of the main concerns coming into Saturday was the weather forecast, which earlier had predicted spotty rain showers during the approximate time of the fursuit parade. THankfully, Mother Nature lost this battle as it was to be dry and not too hot in the afternoon (upper 70s/low 80s) which is really all we can ask for in July in Pittsburgh. We got up a little later than expected, but after downing the in-room Starbucks and a couple of granola bars,
phillyphox and I ran down to the Dealer's room to pick up our con shirts from the con store, and I took time to browse the Art Show. To my great dismay, none of my stuff had any bids on it, which was a stark contrast from last year where I had bids on everything by Saturday and it all sold, of course. Tried to put that out of my mind, but I did notice that there were many less entries in the Art Show this year (at least in the General section). I did find many lion-related pieces that I wanted to bid on though, and made notes for later - I'm usually the one bidding late on Sunday just before closing.
We originally intended on going to the Gyro place across the street (quick, cheap and good), but they surprisingly didn't open until noon which wouldn't work for us, so we went to Subway instead, only 1/2 block away. It was a very efficient, assembly-line style Subway which I wish the ones in the Seattle area were like. With the parade on our minds, we headed back to the Westin around 12:15.
I'm not sure if it was just the enthusiasm surrounding the inaugural outdoor parade or that it was AC's 20th anniversary last year, but there definitely wasn't the excitement and hubbub this year about the parade that there was in 2016. It was still a tremendously fun experience, but the crowd was noticeably thinner, and there seemed to be less fursuiters (the official tally of 1,890 versus 2,100 last year confirmed that). But the new Public Meet and Greet in Hall D in the Convention Center afterwards was a nice addition, and my group (consisting of Philly, kitwanalion 
conqure and I) were able to put a lot of smiles on the faces of youngsters and adults alike that day, and it continued outside on our way back to the Westin. (the strip of sidewalk near the hot dog stand is always a hot spot, we stayed there for at least 5-6 minutes for photos).
Some of my most enjoyable moments performing as a cartoon lion at Anthrocon are with the locals that come down to enjoy all the creativity and characters, and today did not disappoint. A definite highlight was a shout out from a Seattle sports fan yelling, upon seeing my Mariners jersey "YO KEN GRIFFEY JUUUUNIOR! WE LOVE THE MARINERS!!!" Hometown pride, baby!
After taking a quick shower and decompressing from the long parade and after-outing, I had a short turnaround before I was to host Wheel of Furtune, making my Anthrocon game show hosting debut! I was a tad bit nervous as this show did not go as well as I had liked at BLFC, and I was having trouble getting ahold of A/V to set me up with a wireless mic which would have made my job a lot easier.
As it turned out, A/V never showed up so I had to improvise my stage setup myself (thank goodness I was able to think on the fly as host AND stage manager) and I had the contestants stand in front of a single microphone while I ran the game from the main table, sitting down, using a stand mic, and that worked very well.
There were some HUGE game show fans at Wheel that were very enthusiastic about the show, as well as some VERY GOOD players, and we had some thrilling games and incredible solves (all three of our players won their bonus rounds, for example!) and we had an unbelievable finish for the Champion spot (and the Sponsor Membership prize) that went down to the very last puzzle and reveal of the prize envelope. It went as well as I could have hoped with a good turnout of about 50 people, and many came up and complimented me on doing a great hosting job which meant a lot to me - I work very hard to do a professional job with my game show presentations.
After that success I enjoyed one of the ABSOLUTE BEST DINNERS I've ever had at any convention, at TenPenny across the street from the Westin. Philly had raved about this restaurant, usually coming here on Sunday nights when I'm at my Staff Dinner, but I've never had the chance to enjoy it myself yet. I ordered 2 things, Calamari for the table as an appetizer and the Porterhouse Pork Chop, and they were both unbelievably good and the service was friendly and surprisingly fast too. Definitely returning next time.
At this point I had to make a decision to go to Anthrocon tonight or skip it, and I decided to pass this year since it was almost 9pm and I wouldn't get a good seat anyways, so I food coma-ed back to the room and looked forward with much anticipation to the Lion Party to which I had been invited at 10pm in a junior suite on the 14th floor hosted by
lyonlover (Kiwa)
I got up there early and found another lion fursuiter who told me the room wasn't ready yet, so for the moment I went down to my friend
qblion's room to hang out for a bit before trying again around 10:30. When we got back there were at least 10 people in there, enjoying pizza and adult beverages while watching Lion King on a projector screen. I think all of us knew the movie word for word, and we were all laughing hysterically at our own commentary for the film. (Simba's "butt" shake after Hakuna Matata - "THAT MADE ME GAY!" :lol:)
While I had attended room parties at other cons before, this was actually my first ever time attending one at Anthrocon and it was absolutely one of my all-time highlights to be able to meet my lion brethren, I truly felt at home on a deeper level than just the furry fandom in general. Plus I got to talk to Kiwa about his experiences in Africa, being that I was going to take a similar but shorter trip in October of 2018 for my first time, and that made just even more excited for that adventure.
After many drinks, a group photo and trading our social media handles I parted ways at around 11:30 to go back to the room, I thought about suiting up but the alcohol and pizza in my system told me that probably wasn't a good idea at that time, so I went down to the DLCC instead to get some video and photos, the dance floor was so crowded everyone was spilling out into the aisles between the rows of chairs, so I was confined to shooting from the wings and the back. Still got some good stuff but not ideal, but I did get to see some people outside that I hadn't seen the whole con so far including Seattle local
binkmagician.
All in all a very eventful and memorable Saturday at Anthrocon, one that I won't forget anytime soon!
One of the main concerns coming into Saturday was the weather forecast, which earlier had predicted spotty rain showers during the approximate time of the fursuit parade. THankfully, Mother Nature lost this battle as it was to be dry and not too hot in the afternoon (upper 70s/low 80s) which is really all we can ask for in July in Pittsburgh. We got up a little later than expected, but after downing the in-room Starbucks and a couple of granola bars,
phillyphox and I ran down to the Dealer's room to pick up our con shirts from the con store, and I took time to browse the Art Show. To my great dismay, none of my stuff had any bids on it, which was a stark contrast from last year where I had bids on everything by Saturday and it all sold, of course. Tried to put that out of my mind, but I did notice that there were many less entries in the Art Show this year (at least in the General section). I did find many lion-related pieces that I wanted to bid on though, and made notes for later - I'm usually the one bidding late on Sunday just before closing.We originally intended on going to the Gyro place across the street (quick, cheap and good), but they surprisingly didn't open until noon which wouldn't work for us, so we went to Subway instead, only 1/2 block away. It was a very efficient, assembly-line style Subway which I wish the ones in the Seattle area were like. With the parade on our minds, we headed back to the Westin around 12:15.
I'm not sure if it was just the enthusiasm surrounding the inaugural outdoor parade or that it was AC's 20th anniversary last year, but there definitely wasn't the excitement and hubbub this year about the parade that there was in 2016. It was still a tremendously fun experience, but the crowd was noticeably thinner, and there seemed to be less fursuiters (the official tally of 1,890 versus 2,100 last year confirmed that). But the new Public Meet and Greet in Hall D in the Convention Center afterwards was a nice addition, and my group (consisting of Philly,
kitwanalion conqure and I) were able to put a lot of smiles on the faces of youngsters and adults alike that day, and it continued outside on our way back to the Westin. (the strip of sidewalk near the hot dog stand is always a hot spot, we stayed there for at least 5-6 minutes for photos).Some of my most enjoyable moments performing as a cartoon lion at Anthrocon are with the locals that come down to enjoy all the creativity and characters, and today did not disappoint. A definite highlight was a shout out from a Seattle sports fan yelling, upon seeing my Mariners jersey "YO KEN GRIFFEY JUUUUNIOR! WE LOVE THE MARINERS!!!" Hometown pride, baby!
After taking a quick shower and decompressing from the long parade and after-outing, I had a short turnaround before I was to host Wheel of Furtune, making my Anthrocon game show hosting debut! I was a tad bit nervous as this show did not go as well as I had liked at BLFC, and I was having trouble getting ahold of A/V to set me up with a wireless mic which would have made my job a lot easier.
As it turned out, A/V never showed up so I had to improvise my stage setup myself (thank goodness I was able to think on the fly as host AND stage manager) and I had the contestants stand in front of a single microphone while I ran the game from the main table, sitting down, using a stand mic, and that worked very well.
There were some HUGE game show fans at Wheel that were very enthusiastic about the show, as well as some VERY GOOD players, and we had some thrilling games and incredible solves (all three of our players won their bonus rounds, for example!) and we had an unbelievable finish for the Champion spot (and the Sponsor Membership prize) that went down to the very last puzzle and reveal of the prize envelope. It went as well as I could have hoped with a good turnout of about 50 people, and many came up and complimented me on doing a great hosting job which meant a lot to me - I work very hard to do a professional job with my game show presentations.
After that success I enjoyed one of the ABSOLUTE BEST DINNERS I've ever had at any convention, at TenPenny across the street from the Westin. Philly had raved about this restaurant, usually coming here on Sunday nights when I'm at my Staff Dinner, but I've never had the chance to enjoy it myself yet. I ordered 2 things, Calamari for the table as an appetizer and the Porterhouse Pork Chop, and they were both unbelievably good and the service was friendly and surprisingly fast too. Definitely returning next time.
At this point I had to make a decision to go to Anthrocon tonight or skip it, and I decided to pass this year since it was almost 9pm and I wouldn't get a good seat anyways, so I food coma-ed back to the room and looked forward with much anticipation to the Lion Party to which I had been invited at 10pm in a junior suite on the 14th floor hosted by
lyonlover (Kiwa)I got up there early and found another lion fursuiter who told me the room wasn't ready yet, so for the moment I went down to my friend
qblion's room to hang out for a bit before trying again around 10:30. When we got back there were at least 10 people in there, enjoying pizza and adult beverages while watching Lion King on a projector screen. I think all of us knew the movie word for word, and we were all laughing hysterically at our own commentary for the film. (Simba's "butt" shake after Hakuna Matata - "THAT MADE ME GAY!" :lol:)While I had attended room parties at other cons before, this was actually my first ever time attending one at Anthrocon and it was absolutely one of my all-time highlights to be able to meet my lion brethren, I truly felt at home on a deeper level than just the furry fandom in general. Plus I got to talk to Kiwa about his experiences in Africa, being that I was going to take a similar but shorter trip in October of 2018 for my first time, and that made just even more excited for that adventure.
After many drinks, a group photo and trading our social media handles I parted ways at around 11:30 to go back to the room, I thought about suiting up but the alcohol and pizza in my system told me that probably wasn't a good idea at that time, so I went down to the DLCC instead to get some video and photos, the dance floor was so crowded everyone was spilling out into the aisles between the rows of chairs, so I was confined to shooting from the wings and the back. Still got some good stuff but not ideal, but I did get to see some people outside that I hadn't seen the whole con so far including Seattle local
binkmagician. All in all a very eventful and memorable Saturday at Anthrocon, one that I won't forget anytime soon!
Live From The Con - Anthrocon 2017 (Thursday/Friday)
General | Posted 8 years agoAfter a long day of flying Wednesday, woke up more or less refreshed and rejuvenated at 
harleybadger's house and ready for my 8th consecutive AC! It's always a great start to the convention weekend to spend some time with some longtime friends in the fandom and great people such as him and his mate 
spatsbear who picked me up from the airport.
We left the house around 2pm and stopped at Primanti Bros. on the way into town which has become more or less a tradition for us, being a Pittsburgh staple. Being a late lunch I split a delicious steak and cheese (with coleslaw and fries ON the sandwich, of course) with phillyphox which was way too big for my face-hole, and some of the best honey BBQ chipotle wings I've ever had. Great friends and great food, can't ask for anything more. Hit the usual bad traffic and got to the Westin around 4pm to meet our con roommates 
goldenbullet and conqure and get everything loaded up to the room.
Check-in was very laborious this year as there was a confusion - one of the roommates (who had a second reservation) checked in already but accidentally checked in to my room, which was on the 7th floor. In all the years Ive been staff, I've been granted a room on the 5th (lowest accessible) floor, with one year being on 6, which was okay, but 7 wasn't even supposed to be a staff floor! So I was able to finagle the front desk attendant to switching us to a handicapped room on the 6th floor (which we were very lucky was even available) and moving our Golden's second reservation to the 7th floor (my original room) which worked out for everyone, so happy ending even though it took a large chunk of time.
The elevator queue line was ridiculous (think out the lobby door, around the corner and halfway down the long corridor) so we somehow managed to carry all of our stuff up to the 6th floor without injury or death. After getting situated it was time to reg! I picked up my Staff packet in the Crawford room and went down to the actual reg to get a conbook, which had an awesome baseball-slugging lion on the cover (which I may or may not have had some input in, being on the Publications team). Plus I was really happy to see that for the first time ever, I was a published author in a conbook as my feel-good, hometown hero baseball story "The Payoff Pitch" was in there. Hope everyone enjoys it!
Then it was time for TACOS! We originally were going to Condado (the old Tonic across the street) but Philly decided he wanted to try this place with the terribly unauthentic sounding name of Bakersfield Tacos which was only a block away, and they were some of the best tacos I have ever had. I had a fish one, short rib and (my favorite) spicy braised pork that melted in your mouth. This place is definitely a must-go every year for me now, and Philly (who ordered SIX tacos) agreed.
With happy tummies, Philly parted ways to go film the nighttime Furry Cruise which was sold-out, and I went to set up for the Art Show which took a while but was uneventful. I got very lucky this year and they put me right in the front, in the first bay near the entrance which is usually reserved for the Artist Guest of Honor (there wasn't one this year). I put two large canvases in the show this year of my two best (and most popular) pieces and I hope everything finds a home.
On my way back, I thought to stop by the room (the large lecture hall in the convention center) where I was to host Wheel of Furtune on Saturday, and to my huge surprise it was open and completely empty! I'm always one to test everything thoroughly well in advance, so I ran back to the room and grabbed my laptop and wireless buzzers and put everything to the test. While the projector was an old Epson that didn't have the best picture quality, everything ran fine through the HDMI setup, the audio was through the crappy projector speakers which wasn't ideal but looking at the A/V setup I'm not sure if I will have a choice come Saturday, as the only thing running through the hall speakers was the mics. But it was a relief that everything worked and I'll be ready for the show!
After that I ran back to the Westin and barely made it to the staff meeting on time, most of it was spent by Kage going over the revised Service Animal policy after some disasters last year, and a HILARIOUS cameo by our guest of honor, the talented voice actor Charlie Adler. While a bit crude with his humor, he's really a funny guy and it looks like he will have a blast with us this weekend.
There were not as many fursuiters as expected milling around so I went back to the room for the night, but a definitely highlight was seeing the awesome galefrostbane and strobes in full baseball getup heading down to the furry cruise! They are such a cute couple and amazing performers
FRIDAY
This is my 8th Anthrocon and that means I've been at this con 22 official days, and I have to say today was one of the most enjoyable days I've ever had, and that I'm going to write this journal with a huge smile on my face.
Day started out at Opening Ceremonies, that was pretty standard fare of introducing the Board of Directors and the hilarious GoH Charlie Adler, and the next move was to head down to reg (which was a ghost town!) and pick up my Staff Hat and bag with my pocket program and dining guide in it before heading to Furnando's (Furryland) Cafe for lunch with Philly and Conqure. Surprisingly there's no line and I use one of my staff meal tickets to get a Chicken Teriyaki sub, chips and a drink (thanks Uncle Kage!). After that I offered to follow Philly around for a suit outing and get some footage of my own, and it was pure GOLD. There was a
morefurless photoshoot on the rooftop of the convention center that I got some pretty awesome shots for - I truly enjoy taking video and photos of all the fun just as much as performing myself, and after the photoshoot there were so many great moments with people recognizing him from his video work (something I'm quite familiar with) and interacting with the public and other fursuiters.
I actually killed 2 birds (not literally, sorry Avians!) with one stone on this outing and did some shopping in the Dealer's Room, bought Kyell Gold's new novel Love Match along with some offerings from FurPlanet, along with some prints from the awesome
mongoose_ink (may pick up an original inked sketch from him on Saturday). There was more I wanted, including a badge commission from an artist whose style I loved but had never heard before (forgot the name), but I figured I'd try on Saturday near opening.
Then it was my turn to suit, donning my Seattle Mariners jersey and inflatable baseball bat to match the theme, with Philly at the camera going the reverse route, starting off in the Dealer's room and moving up to the 3rd floor of the DLCC where the Lion Photoshoot was to be at 5pm. The outing started out pretty slow as there were not many people outside of the Westin or on the walkway to the convention center, but once in the con space, it reminded me why I love this con so much. There's a vibe at Anthrocon and Pittsburgh that has a special appreciation for the fursuit performer, more so than at other cons. So many people stopped and asked a hug and a photo, regardless if they knew of me or not. Many fans of my YouTube video and charity work said they inspired me to get them into fursuiting or fursuit building which means the world to me, to know I'm making a positive difference in the fandom and the lives of the great people in it. But some of the most memorable and cherished moments are like what I experienced midway through the outing, when a young girl of about 5 lit up when she saw me, ran over and played with my baseball bat, even bopping me on the nose with it, smiling wide the whole time. I live for these moments, and it's cool to be able to experience them in a convention setting.
The Lion photoshoot went well, done by the talented
abrahm, with a total of 12 of us in attendance. I got some individual shots with kitwanalion who was also decked out in his Seibu Lions jersey for the baseball theme, and we got to hang out with Chris as well who returned to Anthrocon from New York with his mom this year. Unfortunately it started to rain just as we were finishing (the same thing happened at the More Fur Less shoot, unbelievable timing Mother Nature has today!) so we did the rest out of the outing in the lobby of the Westin for more photos and fursuit hugs before calling it an afternoon.
Next was dinner at what has become tradition for my group at Anthrocon, Nicky's Thai which is just a couple blocks down 9th street. Surprisingly it was very slow at 6:30 on a Friday, I had left a reservation anyway, but the restaurant ended up filling completely by the time we were done. All 4 of us roommates were there and it made for great conversation about many things. I believe that having good con roommates makes the experience so much better, and I'm so glad we all got along famously. Anyway the food, as usual, was amazing. Started out with fried spring rolls and crab rangoon, and I chose the Phad See Ew which was extremely tasty and just the right amount of spice (4 star), with a refreshing thai iced tea which didn't last long after having fursuited for nearly 2 hours just before.
Unbelievably I fursuited yet again a little later that night to attend the Beastcub photoshoot with Dragonscales (truly a master of his craft), even though it was unannounced, through the magic of social media we got 7 or 8 of us to attend in total which was pretty amazing. It was really fun to see all her suits in one place especially a couple of her newer ones. I didn't last much longer after that, though Philly surprised me just before I went out with a gift... a PLUSH TACO!!! I had wanted one for a long time and for whatever reason hadn't gotten one yet, but he took care of that. It was such a perfect gift, thanks so much
Later that night I went down to the dance to take some video and photos, and to my surprise Philly was up ON STAGE dacing to Eye of the Tiger (must have been Retro Night) and he told me he was about to stop for the night but when he heard that particular song decided to go one more, and because of that I got some footage of him doing something he never thought he would do in his lifetime. Everything happens for a reason!
Spent the rest of the night sharing hilarious stories with my con roommates, and reliving some funny and painful memories from past ACs... I really should have compiled all of them to write an anthology.
Gotta wrap up my journal and rest up for a jam-packed Saturday, but today was beyond awesome and can't wait to do it again tomorrow and make my Anthrocon game show hosting debut!
harleybadger's house and ready for my 8th consecutive AC! It's always a great start to the convention weekend to spend some time with some longtime friends in the fandom and great people such as him and his mate 
spatsbear who picked me up from the airport.We left the house around 2pm and stopped at Primanti Bros. on the way into town which has become more or less a tradition for us, being a Pittsburgh staple. Being a late lunch I split a delicious steak and cheese (with coleslaw and fries ON the sandwich, of course) with
phillyphox which was way too big for my face-hole, and some of the best honey BBQ chipotle wings I've ever had. Great friends and great food, can't ask for anything more. Hit the usual bad traffic and got to the Westin around 4pm to meet our con roommates 
goldenbullet and conqure and get everything loaded up to the room.Check-in was very laborious this year as there was a confusion - one of the roommates (who had a second reservation) checked in already but accidentally checked in to my room, which was on the 7th floor. In all the years Ive been staff, I've been granted a room on the 5th (lowest accessible) floor, with one year being on 6, which was okay, but 7 wasn't even supposed to be a staff floor! So I was able to finagle the front desk attendant to switching us to a handicapped room on the 6th floor (which we were very lucky was even available) and moving our Golden's second reservation to the 7th floor (my original room) which worked out for everyone, so happy ending even though it took a large chunk of time.
The elevator queue line was ridiculous (think out the lobby door, around the corner and halfway down the long corridor) so we somehow managed to carry all of our stuff up to the 6th floor without injury or death. After getting situated it was time to reg! I picked up my Staff packet in the Crawford room and went down to the actual reg to get a conbook, which had an awesome baseball-slugging lion on the cover (which I may or may not have had some input in, being on the Publications team). Plus I was really happy to see that for the first time ever, I was a published author in a conbook as my feel-good, hometown hero baseball story "The Payoff Pitch" was in there. Hope everyone enjoys it!
Then it was time for TACOS! We originally were going to Condado (the old Tonic across the street) but Philly decided he wanted to try this place with the terribly unauthentic sounding name of Bakersfield Tacos which was only a block away, and they were some of the best tacos I have ever had. I had a fish one, short rib and (my favorite) spicy braised pork that melted in your mouth. This place is definitely a must-go every year for me now, and Philly (who ordered SIX tacos) agreed.
With happy tummies, Philly parted ways to go film the nighttime Furry Cruise which was sold-out, and I went to set up for the Art Show which took a while but was uneventful. I got very lucky this year and they put me right in the front, in the first bay near the entrance which is usually reserved for the Artist Guest of Honor (there wasn't one this year). I put two large canvases in the show this year of my two best (and most popular) pieces and I hope everything finds a home.
On my way back, I thought to stop by the room (the large lecture hall in the convention center) where I was to host Wheel of Furtune on Saturday, and to my huge surprise it was open and completely empty! I'm always one to test everything thoroughly well in advance, so I ran back to the room and grabbed my laptop and wireless buzzers and put everything to the test. While the projector was an old Epson that didn't have the best picture quality, everything ran fine through the HDMI setup, the audio was through the crappy projector speakers which wasn't ideal but looking at the A/V setup I'm not sure if I will have a choice come Saturday, as the only thing running through the hall speakers was the mics. But it was a relief that everything worked and I'll be ready for the show!
After that I ran back to the Westin and barely made it to the staff meeting on time, most of it was spent by Kage going over the revised Service Animal policy after some disasters last year, and a HILARIOUS cameo by our guest of honor, the talented voice actor Charlie Adler. While a bit crude with his humor, he's really a funny guy and it looks like he will have a blast with us this weekend.
There were not as many fursuiters as expected milling around so I went back to the room for the night, but a definitely highlight was seeing the awesome
galefrostbane and strobes in full baseball getup heading down to the furry cruise! They are such a cute couple and amazing performers FRIDAY
This is my 8th Anthrocon and that means I've been at this con 22 official days, and I have to say today was one of the most enjoyable days I've ever had, and that I'm going to write this journal with a huge smile on my face.
Day started out at Opening Ceremonies, that was pretty standard fare of introducing the Board of Directors and the hilarious GoH Charlie Adler, and the next move was to head down to reg (which was a ghost town!) and pick up my Staff Hat and bag with my pocket program and dining guide in it before heading to Furnando's (Furryland) Cafe for lunch with Philly and Conqure. Surprisingly there's no line and I use one of my staff meal tickets to get a Chicken Teriyaki sub, chips and a drink (thanks Uncle Kage!). After that I offered to follow Philly around for a suit outing and get some footage of my own, and it was pure GOLD. There was a
morefurless photoshoot on the rooftop of the convention center that I got some pretty awesome shots for - I truly enjoy taking video and photos of all the fun just as much as performing myself, and after the photoshoot there were so many great moments with people recognizing him from his video work (something I'm quite familiar with) and interacting with the public and other fursuiters.I actually killed 2 birds (not literally, sorry Avians!) with one stone on this outing and did some shopping in the Dealer's Room, bought Kyell Gold's new novel Love Match along with some offerings from FurPlanet, along with some prints from the awesome
mongoose_ink (may pick up an original inked sketch from him on Saturday). There was more I wanted, including a badge commission from an artist whose style I loved but had never heard before (forgot the name), but I figured I'd try on Saturday near opening. Then it was my turn to suit, donning my Seattle Mariners jersey and inflatable baseball bat to match the theme, with Philly at the camera going the reverse route, starting off in the Dealer's room and moving up to the 3rd floor of the DLCC where the Lion Photoshoot was to be at 5pm. The outing started out pretty slow as there were not many people outside of the Westin or on the walkway to the convention center, but once in the con space, it reminded me why I love this con so much. There's a vibe at Anthrocon and Pittsburgh that has a special appreciation for the fursuit performer, more so than at other cons. So many people stopped and asked a hug and a photo, regardless if they knew of me or not. Many fans of my YouTube video and charity work said they inspired me to get them into fursuiting or fursuit building which means the world to me, to know I'm making a positive difference in the fandom and the lives of the great people in it. But some of the most memorable and cherished moments are like what I experienced midway through the outing, when a young girl of about 5 lit up when she saw me, ran over and played with my baseball bat, even bopping me on the nose with it, smiling wide the whole time. I live for these moments, and it's cool to be able to experience them in a convention setting.
The Lion photoshoot went well, done by the talented
abrahm, with a total of 12 of us in attendance. I got some individual shots with kitwanalion who was also decked out in his Seibu Lions jersey for the baseball theme, and we got to hang out with Chris as well who returned to Anthrocon from New York with his mom this year. Unfortunately it started to rain just as we were finishing (the same thing happened at the More Fur Less shoot, unbelievable timing Mother Nature has today!) so we did the rest out of the outing in the lobby of the Westin for more photos and fursuit hugs before calling it an afternoon.Next was dinner at what has become tradition for my group at Anthrocon, Nicky's Thai which is just a couple blocks down 9th street. Surprisingly it was very slow at 6:30 on a Friday, I had left a reservation anyway, but the restaurant ended up filling completely by the time we were done. All 4 of us roommates were there and it made for great conversation about many things. I believe that having good con roommates makes the experience so much better, and I'm so glad we all got along famously. Anyway the food, as usual, was amazing. Started out with fried spring rolls and crab rangoon, and I chose the Phad See Ew which was extremely tasty and just the right amount of spice (4 star), with a refreshing thai iced tea which didn't last long after having fursuited for nearly 2 hours just before.
Unbelievably I fursuited yet again a little later that night to attend the Beastcub photoshoot with Dragonscales (truly a master of his craft), even though it was unannounced, through the magic of social media we got 7 or 8 of us to attend in total which was pretty amazing. It was really fun to see all her suits in one place especially a couple of her newer ones. I didn't last much longer after that, though Philly surprised me just before I went out with a gift... a PLUSH TACO!!! I had wanted one for a long time and for whatever reason hadn't gotten one yet, but he took care of that. It was such a perfect gift, thanks so much
Later that night I went down to the dance to take some video and photos, and to my surprise Philly was up ON STAGE dacing to Eye of the Tiger (must have been Retro Night) and he told me he was about to stop for the night but when he heard that particular song decided to go one more, and because of that I got some footage of him doing something he never thought he would do in his lifetime. Everything happens for a reason!
Spent the rest of the night sharing hilarious stories with my con roommates, and reliving some funny and painful memories from past ACs... I really should have compiled all of them to write an anthology.
Gotta wrap up my journal and rest up for a jam-packed Saturday, but today was beyond awesome and can't wait to do it again tomorrow and make my Anthrocon game show hosting debut!
Anthrocon 2017 Meme
General | Posted 8 years agoYoinked from phillyphox
Arrival:
Taking the usual late flight Wednesday, getting into Pittsburgh at midnight and staying at a local friend's house. Getting to the Westin around 3pm.
Means of transportation:
Southwest Airlines, who ever so conveniently provided me with 4 drink tickets for this trip.
Sharing a room with:
phillyphox conqure goldenbullet It is my friend Conqure's first AC (he's local to Seattle) and I'm very excited for him.
Hanging out with:
With the roomies some of the time, otherwise anyone who wants to!
Gender:
XY
How tall are you?
6'
Physical Appearance?
Asian, short black spiky hair & glasses, wearing lion-related shirt and tail usually.
Are you an Artist?
The art is in my fursuit performance, and my photography which will be in the Art Show once again.
Do you have a sketchbook?
Nope.
Can you draw in my sketchbook?
You don't want me to do that...
Are you a Fursuiter?
Yes! One of the most enjoyable parts of AC is spreading the fursuiting magic to the City of Pittsburgh and the furry fans that attend the con each year.
Which Fursuits will you bring?
Kijani only, I really really wish there was a way for me to bring Jelani but it's just not possible. The body takes up an entire suitcase by itself.
Attending parties?
Not cool enough to get invited to any, except that one time on the 13th floor of the Westin...
Do you drink?
Like a fish! Oh you mean alcohol? Yes, on occasion.
Do you smoke?
Ribs, salmon... mmm *drools*
Hosting/Attending Panels?
I will be making my Anthrocon Game Show hosting debut on Friday at 5pm in DLCC 407 - hosting Wheel of Furtune. I am very excited and anxious to do a great job after the problems we had at BLFC which have now been fixed. IT's going to be a ton of fun, and there's a Sponsor Membership up for grabs which is exciting.
Attending, the Fursuit Dance Comp is a must for me, other than that there's actually not much on my schedule this year. More time for fursuiting!
Stage or public performance?
Nah, I prefer to watch.
How do I identify myself to you?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!) I am really good with faces and bad with (complicated fursona) names, so if we have met before please remind me your name to jog my memory.
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Hugs are great! Fursuit snugs are nice too but in private...
Best way to contact?
Twitter is best @kijani_lion, I'm also on Telegram on the same handle but don't check it nearly as often and don't get alerts. If I know you I'll be happy to give you my cell number for texting as well.
Can I talk to you?
Yes!!!! Some of the most enjoyable moments for me at Anthrocon are meeting new people and fans of my videos. If they have inspired you in some way, or you otherwise enjoy my work please let me know
Can I give you stuff?
Stuff: matter, material, articles, or activities of a specified or indeterminate kind that are being referred to, indicated, or implied.
Okay sure!
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs make the world go round. Snuggles are only for certain people, in suit only, and not in public areas of the con.
Can I come to dinner with you?
Please ask in advance, some of our dinners will have reservations (that can be adjusted with notice). But sharing a meal with friends at a con is a most enjoyable experience.
Can I hang out with you?
I'm pretty busy at AC and usually on the move, but if you're okay with that, sure. Just don't be creepy stalker guy!
Can I take your picture?
Sure, in or out of suit.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
The only time I can't really socialize is if I'm heading to an event or panel or have some kind of engagement, and I'll probably politely let you know if that's the case. Otherwise I have never been too angry or upset at AC to socialize.
Personality Type?
I am extremely friendly and easygoing, especially at a big con like AC. Can be shy at first among people I don't know well, but open up quickly if we have something in common.
What's your goal for the con this year?
- See and spend time with friends and acquaintances I only get to see once a year
- Fursuit more than I ever have at AC
- Do a great job hosting Wheel
- Do well in the Art Show (I said last year will be my final time if I didn't do well, and I had by far my best year ever, you guys are amazing) - I do have two very nice canvases of my most popular works in there this year.
I think that's it... let me know if you're going and see you next week in Pittsburgh!
phillyphoxArrival:
Taking the usual late flight Wednesday, getting into Pittsburgh at midnight and staying at a local friend's house. Getting to the Westin around 3pm.
Means of transportation:
Southwest Airlines, who ever so conveniently provided me with 4 drink tickets for this trip.
Sharing a room with:
phillyphox conqure goldenbullet It is my friend Conqure's first AC (he's local to Seattle) and I'm very excited for him.Hanging out with:
With the roomies some of the time, otherwise anyone who wants to!
Gender:
XY
How tall are you?
6'
Physical Appearance?
Asian, short black spiky hair & glasses, wearing lion-related shirt and tail usually.
Are you an Artist?
The art is in my fursuit performance, and my photography which will be in the Art Show once again.
Do you have a sketchbook?
Nope.
Can you draw in my sketchbook?
You don't want me to do that...
Are you a Fursuiter?
Yes! One of the most enjoyable parts of AC is spreading the fursuiting magic to the City of Pittsburgh and the furry fans that attend the con each year.
Which Fursuits will you bring?
Kijani only, I really really wish there was a way for me to bring Jelani but it's just not possible. The body takes up an entire suitcase by itself.
Attending parties?
Not cool enough to get invited to any, except that one time on the 13th floor of the Westin...
Do you drink?
Like a fish! Oh you mean alcohol? Yes, on occasion.
Do you smoke?
Ribs, salmon... mmm *drools*
Hosting/Attending Panels?
I will be making my Anthrocon Game Show hosting debut on Friday at 5pm in DLCC 407 - hosting Wheel of Furtune. I am very excited and anxious to do a great job after the problems we had at BLFC which have now been fixed. IT's going to be a ton of fun, and there's a Sponsor Membership up for grabs which is exciting.
Attending, the Fursuit Dance Comp is a must for me, other than that there's actually not much on my schedule this year. More time for fursuiting!
Stage or public performance?
Nah, I prefer to watch.
How do I identify myself to you?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!) I am really good with faces and bad with (complicated fursona) names, so if we have met before please remind me your name to jog my memory.
Rules of engagement (physical contact)?
Hugs are great! Fursuit snugs are nice too but in private...
Best way to contact?
Twitter is best @kijani_lion, I'm also on Telegram on the same handle but don't check it nearly as often and don't get alerts. If I know you I'll be happy to give you my cell number for texting as well.
Can I talk to you?
Yes!!!! Some of the most enjoyable moments for me at Anthrocon are meeting new people and fans of my videos. If they have inspired you in some way, or you otherwise enjoy my work please let me know
Can I give you stuff?
Stuff: matter, material, articles, or activities of a specified or indeterminate kind that are being referred to, indicated, or implied.
Okay sure!
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs make the world go round. Snuggles are only for certain people, in suit only, and not in public areas of the con.
Can I come to dinner with you?
Please ask in advance, some of our dinners will have reservations (that can be adjusted with notice). But sharing a meal with friends at a con is a most enjoyable experience.
Can I hang out with you?
I'm pretty busy at AC and usually on the move, but if you're okay with that, sure. Just don't be creepy stalker guy!
Can I take your picture?
Sure, in or out of suit.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize (angry, busy or upset)?
The only time I can't really socialize is if I'm heading to an event or panel or have some kind of engagement, and I'll probably politely let you know if that's the case. Otherwise I have never been too angry or upset at AC to socialize.
Personality Type?
I am extremely friendly and easygoing, especially at a big con like AC. Can be shy at first among people I don't know well, but open up quickly if we have something in common.
What's your goal for the con this year?
- See and spend time with friends and acquaintances I only get to see once a year
- Fursuit more than I ever have at AC
- Do a great job hosting Wheel
- Do well in the Art Show (I said last year will be my final time if I didn't do well, and I had by far my best year ever, you guys are amazing) - I do have two very nice canvases of my most popular works in there this year.
I think that's it... let me know if you're going and see you next week in Pittsburgh!
BLFC 2017 Video Library (including all Dance Comp entries)
General | Posted 8 years agoMy BLFC 2017 Video Library is now complete for your viewing enjoyment! Not that many videos this year due to my many obligations to the con (hosting 5 panels/events) but it was still a great time as always.
First and foremost a HUGE shout out to swaggyaces and chaosreign who filmed me in suit (as Jelani at the Fursuit Festival and Kijani during go-karts and on Sunday). You only get to debut a suit once, and capturing the memory of it through video made it extra special.
(click on the bold titles to go directly to the video)
Click here to go directly to my YouTube channel
Here's my fursuiting compilation video I make every con I attend, highlighting all the fun fuzzy moments I and my videographers were able to capture this year. I wasn't able to get as much footage as I usually do with all of my commitments this year, but I thought despite that, it turned out well and captures the spirit of this amazing convention.
BLFC 2017 KAIJU OPEN BOWLING TOURNAMENT
The 3rd annual BLFC Bowling Tournament, held Sunday night after Closing Ceremonies at the GSR's 50-lane alley, drew a record 28 entries this year. We had some great matches and incredible moments in the thrilling match play finals, including our first FURSUITER to ever advance out of the qualifying round (ended up placing 4th and earning a free membership to next year!)
FURRY FEUD HIGHLIGHTS
My first-ever experience hosting a game show at a convention went extremely well - this video features all the zany answers, hilarious and exciting moments from Furry Feud at BLFC. Unfortunately Game 1 accidentally got deleted before I was able to process it, but I have the full Game 2 and Finals (below)
FURRY FEUD GAME 2 - TRASHMEN VS. APPLE
FURRY FEUD FINALS - TRASHMEN VS. TEAM 3
WHEEL OF FURTUNE HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights from the other game show panel I hosted at BLFC, Wheel of Furtune. There were some great solves and exciting moments, but unfortunately this panel didn't go as smoothly as planned with some software issues, some contestants that had probably never seen the show before and a vicious wheel that seemed stuck on "Bankrupt", but it was a great learning experience and I was able to fix all the game errors for when I host this at Anthrocon.
KIJANI CONVENTION PSA - TIP YOUR HOUSEKEEPERS
A fun little PSA reminder video I made about tipping housekeeping for their hard work
FURSUIT DANCE COMPETITION
Always a personal highlight of the con for me, I love watching the fandom's most talented dancers show their skills on stage!
This is one of my favorite con videos to put together - my traditional Dance Competition "Highlight Reel" featuring clips from each of the 24 dancers from each the Novice and Veteran divisions, plus the Merp Crew group exhibition. What a talent showcase!
DANCERS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER (click on the name to watch the video)
ACE
AKKI
B-BOY FINCH
BOOST
CC CORGI
DORYUU
FAYE
FLUKE
FUZE
HEKIRO!
HIKE
IT
KAI
KINTARI
KIRAL
LEON
MEX
OWEN
PILOT
RED
RHAPSODIE
TOBIAS
ZACHARIE
MERP LIFE CREW - GROUP EXHIBITION
First and foremost a HUGE shout out to
swaggyaces and chaosreign who filmed me in suit (as Jelani at the Fursuit Festival and Kijani during go-karts and on Sunday). You only get to debut a suit once, and capturing the memory of it through video made it extra special.(click on the bold titles to go directly to the video)
Click here to go directly to my YouTube channel
Here's my fursuiting compilation video I make every con I attend, highlighting all the fun fuzzy moments I and my videographers were able to capture this year. I wasn't able to get as much footage as I usually do with all of my commitments this year, but I thought despite that, it turned out well and captures the spirit of this amazing convention.
BLFC 2017 KAIJU OPEN BOWLING TOURNAMENT
The 3rd annual BLFC Bowling Tournament, held Sunday night after Closing Ceremonies at the GSR's 50-lane alley, drew a record 28 entries this year. We had some great matches and incredible moments in the thrilling match play finals, including our first FURSUITER to ever advance out of the qualifying round (ended up placing 4th and earning a free membership to next year!)
FURRY FEUD HIGHLIGHTS
My first-ever experience hosting a game show at a convention went extremely well - this video features all the zany answers, hilarious and exciting moments from Furry Feud at BLFC. Unfortunately Game 1 accidentally got deleted before I was able to process it, but I have the full Game 2 and Finals (below)
FURRY FEUD GAME 2 - TRASHMEN VS. APPLE
FURRY FEUD FINALS - TRASHMEN VS. TEAM 3
WHEEL OF FURTUNE HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights from the other game show panel I hosted at BLFC, Wheel of Furtune. There were some great solves and exciting moments, but unfortunately this panel didn't go as smoothly as planned with some software issues, some contestants that had probably never seen the show before and a vicious wheel that seemed stuck on "Bankrupt", but it was a great learning experience and I was able to fix all the game errors for when I host this at Anthrocon.
KIJANI CONVENTION PSA - TIP YOUR HOUSEKEEPERS
A fun little PSA reminder video I made about tipping housekeeping for their hard work
FURSUIT DANCE COMPETITION
Always a personal highlight of the con for me, I love watching the fandom's most talented dancers show their skills on stage!
This is one of my favorite con videos to put together - my traditional Dance Competition "Highlight Reel" featuring clips from each of the 24 dancers from each the Novice and Veteran divisions, plus the Merp Crew group exhibition. What a talent showcase!
DANCERS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER (click on the name to watch the video)
ACE
AKKI
B-BOY FINCH
BOOST
CC CORGI
DORYUU
FAYE
FLUKE
FUZE
HEKIRO!
HIKE
IT
KAI
KINTARI
KIRAL
LEON
MEX
OWEN
PILOT
RED
RHAPSODIE
TOBIAS
ZACHARIE
MERP LIFE CREW - GROUP EXHIBITION
BLFC 2017 Meme
General | Posted 8 years agoMan this will the craziest, busiest con ever for me!!! Yoinked from 
crimsonmercury7192
Days staying:
Thursday-Monday
Staying at:
The Grand Sierra Resort
How are you traveling?
Road Tripping with chaosreign - longest road trip of my life by far!
Who are you rooming with?
chaosreign swaggyaces 
alphapak
Who will you be with?
Chaos most of the time, or whoever wants to hang out during my busy con schedule
Hosting Panels or Events?
YES!!!
Hosting the following:
Casino Gaming 101 (Friday, 10am)
Charity Blackjack Tournament (Friday, 2:30pm reg starts)
Furry Feud (Saturday, 2-4pm)
Wheel of Furtune (Sunday, 3-5pm)
Kaiju Open Bowling Tournament (Sunday, 8:30pm reg starts)
Where will you be?
If I'm not at one of my 5 panels or events, probably fursuiting or browsing the dealer's room/art show or donating to the GSR Electric Bill Fund
How is the best way to find you?
Definitely the best way is through Twitter or Telegram @kijani_lion, if you have my cell # text is great too
What do you look like?
6' Asian, glasses, short spiky hair and wearing lion-related shirt & tail
What is your gender?
Oh crap I forgot... *checks* yup, male.
How old are you?
31
Can I talk to you?
Of course! I go to these cons to connect with old friends and make new ones :)
Can I hug and/or snuggle you?
Hugs anytime, snuggles only in fursuit with an advanced reservation.
Are you nice?
NO IMA JERKFACE seriously I am or at least try to be the nicest friendliest person to EVERYBODY at all times.
Are you fursuiting?
Yes as much as I can
Which suit(s) will you be bringing?
Kijani and debuting Jelani the Sabertoothed Lion by
beastcub, very excited!
If I see you, how should I get your attention?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!)
Do you take commissions?
No
Dealers den?
Are there lions in the den?
Can we hang out?
Unfortunately I won't have much hangout time at the con but if it works with your schedule, sure
Can I talk to you?
Please! I love meeting new people and talking with old friends.
Where will you be eating?
Buffet at least once, the diner at least once, Port-of-Subs at least twice. Rim is pretty awesome too!
Can I come to dinner with you?
Most of our dinners will be reserved tables so only if you ask in advance.
Can I ask ya to dance with me during the dances?
I have two left feet but sure!
Can I buy you drinks?
Only if I can buy you one in return!
Do you attend parties?
Rarely get invited to any, but if I do then most likely sure!
Can I take your picture?
Sure
May I kidnap you to my room?
Uhhh....
Attending any events?
Besides all my panels, Fursuit Festival (Jelani will debut here most likely), probably Fursuit Price is Right and definitely the dance comp.
What's your goal(s) for the con this year?
Do a great job with all my panels and events particularly the game show ones, make the charity lots of money running the Blackjack Tournament, win a few bucks from the casino, enjoy debuting my new suit and having a great time with friends at a super fun convention.
crimsonmercury7192Days staying:
Thursday-Monday
Staying at:
The Grand Sierra Resort
How are you traveling?
Road Tripping with
chaosreign - longest road trip of my life by far!Who are you rooming with?
chaosreign swaggyaces 
alphapakWho will you be with?
Chaos most of the time, or whoever wants to hang out during my busy con schedule
Hosting Panels or Events?
YES!!!
Hosting the following:
Casino Gaming 101 (Friday, 10am)
Charity Blackjack Tournament (Friday, 2:30pm reg starts)
Furry Feud (Saturday, 2-4pm)
Wheel of Furtune (Sunday, 3-5pm)
Kaiju Open Bowling Tournament (Sunday, 8:30pm reg starts)
Where will you be?
If I'm not at one of my 5 panels or events, probably fursuiting or browsing the dealer's room/art show or donating to the GSR Electric Bill Fund
How is the best way to find you?
Definitely the best way is through Twitter or Telegram @kijani_lion, if you have my cell # text is great too
What do you look like?
6' Asian, glasses, short spiky hair and wearing lion-related shirt & tail
What is your gender?
Oh crap I forgot... *checks* yup, male.
How old are you?
31
Can I talk to you?
Of course! I go to these cons to connect with old friends and make new ones :)
Can I hug and/or snuggle you?
Hugs anytime, snuggles only in fursuit with an advanced reservation.
Are you nice?
NO IMA JERKFACE seriously I am or at least try to be the nicest friendliest person to EVERYBODY at all times.
Are you fursuiting?
Yes as much as I can
Which suit(s) will you be bringing?
Kijani and debuting Jelani the Sabertoothed Lion by
beastcub, very excited!If I see you, how should I get your attention?
If I'm in suit, yell my name and come running in my general direction, arms flailing, and I may be able to see you. Out of suit, less flailing will be necessary, just be polite about it (no surprise glomps please!)
Do you take commissions?
No
Dealers den?
Are there lions in the den?
Can we hang out?
Unfortunately I won't have much hangout time at the con but if it works with your schedule, sure
Can I talk to you?
Please! I love meeting new people and talking with old friends.
Where will you be eating?
Buffet at least once, the diner at least once, Port-of-Subs at least twice. Rim is pretty awesome too!
Can I come to dinner with you?
Most of our dinners will be reserved tables so only if you ask in advance.
Can I ask ya to dance with me during the dances?
I have two left feet but sure!
Can I buy you drinks?
Only if I can buy you one in return!
Do you attend parties?
Rarely get invited to any, but if I do then most likely sure!
Can I take your picture?
Sure
May I kidnap you to my room?
Uhhh....
Attending any events?
Besides all my panels, Fursuit Festival (Jelani will debut here most likely), probably Fursuit Price is Right and definitely the dance comp.
What's your goal(s) for the con this year?
Do a great job with all my panels and events particularly the game show ones, make the charity lots of money running the Blackjack Tournament, win a few bucks from the casino, enjoy debuting my new suit and having a great time with friends at a super fun convention.
Looking for a roommate for AC, PRIME ROOM at the Westin!
General | Posted 8 years agoHello all, I'm looking for a 4th to fill our room at Anthrocon this year. As a longtime Anthrocon Staff Member (since 2011) I have a prime room on the 5th floor of the Westin reserved, it's really the perfect room as you never have to take an elevator and deal with the long lines for the ENTIRE convention, just several flights of stairs up from the main con space and you're right there!
The room share is $210 per person for Thursday through Sunday nights (check out Monday morning). The con roommates will be myself and two awesome people: Conqure, a buddy of mine from Seattle attending AC for the first time, and my friend phillyphox who I've roomed with the past 3 years. We are all fursuiters.
Please contact me if you are interested: In case of multiple interested parties, preference will be given to people I know personally or any of my friends know and can vouch for.
Thank you!!!
Kijani
The room share is $210 per person for Thursday through Sunday nights (check out Monday morning). The con roommates will be myself and two awesome people: Conqure, a buddy of mine from Seattle attending AC for the first time, and my friend
phillyphox who I've roomed with the past 3 years. We are all fursuiters. Please contact me if you are interested: In case of multiple interested parties, preference will be given to people I know personally or any of my friends know and can vouch for.
Thank you!!!
Kijani
Christmas Fursuiting Spectacular! (VIDEO)
General | Posted 9 years agoHere is my holiday gift to everyone: The Christmas Fursuiting Spectacular! I love performing around the holidays as being a fun and friendly lion adds to the already joyful, festive atmosphere! Enjoy this mega-compilation of my personal favorite moments from holiday outings over the past 6 years - I hope this brings a smile to your face and brightens up your holiday season.
Happy Holidays everyone and best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!
MFF Meme (Better Late Than Never Edition)
General | Posted 9 years agoShamelessly stolen from the awesome 
thewrinkledog
What hotel are you staying at?
I was not one of the lucky ones... Hilton Rosemont.
How many times have you been to MFF?
There's a first time for everything! Heard so many great things about the con, had to give it a try.
Arrival/Departure
Arrive Thursday afternoon, leave Monday.
Means of transportation?
That would be one hell of a drive. Or walk, for that matter. A giant flying bird, unfortunately with "UNITED" on the body.
Are you sharing a room with someone?
chaosreign and kitwanalion
Do you Dance?
I am a fairly proficient DDR player, but that ain't dancin!
Who do you hang out with?
Anyone who wants to hang out! Being my first MFF I'm not hosting any panels, just enjoying the experience.
How old are you?
30
How tall are you?
6' exactly
Are you an Artist?
My art is restricted to my fursuit performance.
Do you have an artist table?
LOLOL
Do you take commissions?
LOLOLOLOL
Do you do trades?
I'll gladly trade my cup o noodles for your ham sammich so I don't have to walk in the freezing cold Chicago winter!
Are you a Fursuiter?
Absolutely, I'll be running around in Kijani as much as I can!
Attending parties?
If I'm invited, but it's been a while since that's happened.
Do you drink?
Yes!
Can I buy you a drink?
Only if I can buy you one in return!
Do you smoke/vape?
Nope.
Are you attending any panels?
Yeah a few, definitely the game-show related ones, possibly costume performance on Sunday morning
Stage or public performance?
I'll watch this year. Doesn't seem like there is much opportunity for public fursuiting at MFF.
Attending any dances?
Sure I'll check them out.
How can I find you at the dance.
Lion wearing a hawaiian shirt, wearing a glowstick necklace most likely!
How do I identify myself to you?
If I'm out of suit, simply come up and introduce yourself. In suit, yelling "KIJANIIIII!!!", running in my general direction while flailing your arms wildly has approximately a 56% chance of working, according to most recent data.
How can I find you?
Azn dude with short spiky hair w/lion tail and shirt, usually carrying a camera to capture the fun and frivolity of the con.
How can I get in touch with you?
Twitter is by far the best - @ kijani_lion
Telegram is the same handle
Can I talk to you?
Definitely! I love meeting people and also fans of my video work, it's super cool to meet other furry fans w/something in common (public/charity fursuiting, bowling, photography, TLK/lions, etc)
Can I give you lots of money?
That's never happened... YET! But if you do I will use it to buy you something nice.
Can I give you stuff?
Sure? Unless it's a... well let's not go there.
Rules of engagement in Suit (physical contact)?
Hugs are awesome, snugs only in private.
Rules of engagement out of suit (physical contact)?
Hugs are swell, so sayeth Hubcap
Can I come eat with you?
Sure, please do try to arrange it in advance or at least ask first.
Can I hang out with you?
sure
Can I take your picture?
In suit you can take as many pictures as you wish. Out of suit, I suppose... I'm really not that famous.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize?
The only time I wouldn't want to socialize is if I'm heading to an event, and I will politely let you know, but we will socialize later!
Personality Type?
Friendly
Why are you going to MFF?
Really wanted to give it a shot, heard so many great things. Another chance to see all the midwest/east coast fuzzies I usually only get to see at AC. Also never been to Chicago, only flown through. Pizza anyone???
thewrinkledogWhat hotel are you staying at?
I was not one of the lucky ones... Hilton Rosemont.
How many times have you been to MFF?
There's a first time for everything! Heard so many great things about the con, had to give it a try.
Arrival/Departure
Arrive Thursday afternoon, leave Monday.
Means of transportation?
That would be one hell of a drive. Or walk, for that matter. A giant flying bird, unfortunately with "UNITED" on the body.
Are you sharing a room with someone?
chaosreign and kitwanalionDo you Dance?
I am a fairly proficient DDR player, but that ain't dancin!
Who do you hang out with?
Anyone who wants to hang out! Being my first MFF I'm not hosting any panels, just enjoying the experience.
How old are you?
30
How tall are you?
6' exactly
Are you an Artist?
My art is restricted to my fursuit performance.
Do you have an artist table?
LOLOL
Do you take commissions?
LOLOLOLOL
Do you do trades?
I'll gladly trade my cup o noodles for your ham sammich so I don't have to walk in the freezing cold Chicago winter!
Are you a Fursuiter?
Absolutely, I'll be running around in Kijani as much as I can!
Attending parties?
If I'm invited, but it's been a while since that's happened.
Do you drink?
Yes!
Can I buy you a drink?
Only if I can buy you one in return!
Do you smoke/vape?
Nope.
Are you attending any panels?
Yeah a few, definitely the game-show related ones, possibly costume performance on Sunday morning
Stage or public performance?
I'll watch this year. Doesn't seem like there is much opportunity for public fursuiting at MFF.
Attending any dances?
Sure I'll check them out.
How can I find you at the dance.
Lion wearing a hawaiian shirt, wearing a glowstick necklace most likely!
How do I identify myself to you?
If I'm out of suit, simply come up and introduce yourself. In suit, yelling "KIJANIIIII!!!", running in my general direction while flailing your arms wildly has approximately a 56% chance of working, according to most recent data.
How can I find you?
Azn dude with short spiky hair w/lion tail and shirt, usually carrying a camera to capture the fun and frivolity of the con.
How can I get in touch with you?
Twitter is by far the best - @ kijani_lion
Telegram is the same handle
Can I talk to you?
Definitely! I love meeting people and also fans of my video work, it's super cool to meet other furry fans w/something in common (public/charity fursuiting, bowling, photography, TLK/lions, etc)
Can I give you lots of money?
That's never happened... YET! But if you do I will use it to buy you something nice.
Can I give you stuff?
Sure? Unless it's a... well let's not go there.
Rules of engagement in Suit (physical contact)?
Hugs are awesome, snugs only in private.
Rules of engagement out of suit (physical contact)?
Hugs are swell, so sayeth Hubcap
Can I come eat with you?
Sure, please do try to arrange it in advance or at least ask first.
Can I hang out with you?
sure
Can I take your picture?
In suit you can take as many pictures as you wish. Out of suit, I suppose... I'm really not that famous.
How do I know if you're not looking to socialize?
The only time I wouldn't want to socialize is if I'm heading to an event, and I will politely let you know, but we will socialize later!
Personality Type?
Friendly
Why are you going to MFF?
Really wanted to give it a shot, heard so many great things. Another chance to see all the midwest/east coast fuzzies I usually only get to see at AC. Also never been to Chicago, only flown through. Pizza anyone???
When Furballs Strike 25 - World Record FurBowl Attendance
General | Posted 9 years agoFurLife: Pacific Northwest Furries
furlife held a world record-breaking furbowl on November 12, 2016 as 297 furry fans traveled far and wide to Kenmore Lanes for When Furballs Strike 25!Among the 297 were an incredible 123 fursuiters, both which smashed previous records of 271 attendance (WFS 22) and 103 fursuiters (WFS 24). It truly was incredible to see so many from our vibrant community come out for some fun and furry fellowship!
It really is an honor to be able to put an event of this magnitude this on for everyone and bring our community together.
VIdeo shot by Kijani and Glacier
Edited by Kijani
http://www.meetup.com/furlife
http://www.whenfurballsstrike.net
Furries Can Bowl 4th Edition! (VIDEO)
General | Posted 9 years agoBowling is a tough game. You have to throw a heavy ball down a 60-foot lane at a cluster of wood spaced a foot apart, weighing nearly 40 pounds total.
It's ESPECIALLY hard while in a bulky animal costume with limited vision, dexterity and mobility... but don't tell that to these fine fursuit bowlers! Back by popular demand here's a 4th helping of amazing bowling shots thrown by some very talented furry keglers.
Edited by Kijani, original footage from:
When Furballs Strike 18-24
RF 2015 PCD Bowling Party
Kijani's 30th Birthday Party
NachoDog's Birthday Party (Round1)
Fursuit Bowling Challenge 3
Kijani's Top 10 Vlog #1 - Fursuit Dance Comp Entries
General | Posted 9 years agoStarting up a new "Top 10" Vlog series for my YouTube channel! First one is my personal favorite top 10 Fursuit Dance Competition dances from the conventions I've been able to attend over the years - Anthrocon, BLFC and Rainfurrest. By my count I've attended 16 of these competitions since 2010, and it was impossibly hard to narrow this list down to the top 10... I had to leave some very good and deserving dances out.
I love these dance competitions as they really showcase the hard work, creative spirit and talent that the furry fandom has to offer. It's been a real treat to attend these shows and capture these performances on video for all to enjoy! I added a little commentary before each dance as well, explaining why I chose it for the list.
Here is my Top 10 list with time links if you want to skip to any one dancer :)
Honorable Mention: Isabelle Unicorn (BLFC 2014) - 1:16
#10: V (Anthrocon 2010) - 3:11
#9: Kotto (Anthrocon 2016) - 5:49
#8: Skye (Anthrocon 2013) - 8:42
#7: Pyro & Yuki (BLFC 2016) - 11:20
#6: Hogwash (Rainfurrest 2015) - 13:39
#5: German Skrat (Anthrocon 2016) - 16:22
#4: Monster Roo (Anthrocon 2012) - 18:56
#3: Tauntaun (Anthrocon 2011) - 22:42
#2: Gale & Strobes (Anthrocon 2016) - 26:18
#1: Rinn (Rainfurrest 2015) - 29:25
Enjoy this showcase of fursuit dance talent, and if you have any ideas of what I should do for my next Top 10 Vlog, comment below! Thanks!
Anthrocon 2016 Complete Video Library!
General | Posted 9 years agoMy Anthrocon 2016 Video Library is now complete for your viewing enjoyment!
First and foremost a HUGE shout out to phillyphox and chaosreign who did a tremendous job filming me while I was in suit this year. Without them the many clips of a Hawaiian Lion spreading fursuiting joy around the convention and downtown Pittsburgh would not have been possible. Chaos also shot the entire Fursuit Parade (link below).
(click on the bold titles to go directly to the video)
Click here to go directly to my YouTube channel
Here's my annual fursuiting compilation featuring all of the entertaining footage I was able to capture from this year's Anthrocon! Lots of great moments in this one, with much cute adorbs mixed in. I tried to strike a balance of clips from the Westin, Convention Center and also out on the streets with the locals enjoying the fursuiters.
FURSUITING FUN WITH KIJANI AND FRIENDS
ALL TEH HUGZ!!! I did a lot of fursuiting at AC this year, and had a ton of fun performing my character all over the convention space and out in the streets of Pittsburgh! If you interacted with me in suit at the con, you are most likely in this video somewhere :)
Thank you to all the wonderfully kind people who stopped to say hi, get a hug or a photo, and said many kind words about my videos or being inspirational in their path to fursuiting and/or the furry fandom. It really warms my heart to know I've helped others and that's what keeps me going!
FURSUIT PARADE (WORLD RECORD)
The Anthrocon 2016 Fursuit Parade was by far the largest of its kind ever held in the world, featuring an incredible 2,100 fursuits! While this video was shot in the Convention Center near the end of the parade route, all the participants had a blast taking the parade outside and hamming it up for the thousands of Pittsburgh locals who came to watch the spectacle in person.
MONDAY MORNING GOODBYE FURSUITING
Always a tear-jerker video, a yearly tradition of mine at Anthrocon is to fursuit in the lobby of the Westin on Monday morning to give departing attendees one last fursuit hug and happy memory, and wish them well on their journeys home. It's a very emotional outing for everyone involved and this year (my 4th year doing it) was no exception. The feels were very real this year as I set the footage two versions of the chilling song "What Hurts the Most" by Rascall Flatts and Cascada (slow mix).
FURSUITING FUN AT TONIC
Another fun Anthrocon tradition is to go fursuiting at Tonic, the happenin' bar across the street from the Westin! Always a great time with the festive atmosphere and posing for photos with the many friendly local furry watchers.
OPENING AND CLOSING CEREMONIES HIGHLIGHTS
Features Guest of Honor and charity introductions, introductions from the Board of Directors, the record-breaking final numbers from the convention (attendees/fursuiters/charity donation) and some humorous highlights.
BROOKES FAMILY FURSUIT WELCOME
A bunch of fantastic fursuiters made an appearance on Thursday night of Anthrocon to welcome a very special guest named Chris Brookes and his family to the convention.
Chris, who has a wonderful attitude and great personality despite the many challenges he faces in everyday life, loves fursuiters and one of his biggest wishes was to attend Anthrocon and meet his favorite characters in person. Through the hard work of Tycho Aussie to organize this meet & greet as well as the efforts of everyone you see here in this video, we were able to make one young man's dream come true! This is what furry fandom, and fursuiting, is all about and it was a great honor to be asked to attend this event for this deserving young man.
FURSUITING BEYOND THE CON PANEL
At Anthrocon 2016, I hosted my "Fursuiting Beyond the Con" panel that I've presented at Rainfurrest and BLFC in past years. While the early morning time slot meant a smaller audience, I was thrilled to bring my experience and knowledge of public fursuiting to AC and help others that are looking get involved and bring some fursuiting fun and magic to their own hometown.
Q/A WITH JOAQUIN BALDWIN, GUEST OF HONOR
Anthrocon was fortunate to have award-winning Disney animator and layout artist Joaquin Baldwin as one of its Guests of Honor for 2016, and he took the time to answer many animation and career-related questions at one of his panels over the weekend. Baldwin worked on Disney's Zootopia, Wreck-It Ralph, Big Hero 6, Frozen and has earned well over 100 awards for his other animated shorts including Sebastian's Voodoo and Papiroflexia. It was interesting to hear his thought process that goes into his projects and he offered a lot of insight into the field that surely helped any aspiring animators in the audience.
FURRY FEUD MARRIAGE PROPOSAL
While the rest of this show was more or less a train wreck... one definite highlight was a surprise proposal that went down during the first round of Furry Feud at Anthrocon 2016. Very special moment for this lovely couple and really cool to witness something like this!
FURSUIT DANCE COMPETITION
Always a personal highlight of the con for me, I love watching the fandom's most talented dancers show their skills on stage! Thanks to Ronnie, I was able to score front-row seats to give a new angle to the dance comp videos that I've been doing (usually from stage right) since 2010.
AC 2016 FURSUIT DANCE HIGHLIGHT REEL
This is one of my favorite con videos to put together - my traditional Dance Competition "Highlight Reel" featuring clips from each of the 25 dancers (individual and group entries) that made the finals. This is the only video that features the performances of Tao (3rd place, Novice) and Whisper Banshee (1st place, Novice) as their videos were not uploadable due to song copyright.
GROUP DANCE AND JUDGING RESULTS
Short video of all the participants dancing onstage and the final results from the judges. Love to see everyone supporting all the placers!
DANCERS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER (click on the name to watch the video)
ALBA
ANDROMEDA
ALEX PHOENIX
DRE
DARCY (2nd place, Novice)
GALE AND STROBES
KIRAL
KOTTO (3rd place, Veteran)
LAZULI
MOJITO
LAZULI
NERO
PARTY WOLF
PAZREY
PRISM
PUPPIES!!!
MYKE LABRAWOLF (1st place, Veteran)
SAPPHIRE JACK
SNIPER
T (2nd place, Veteran)
TJ
THE TROUBLEMAKERS
TZUKI
RONNIE, JD & ATSU - EXHIBITION
MASQUERADE - I've been attending the AC Masquerade every year since 2010 and this year was by far the best as far as entertaining and talented acts. It was a GREAT show all around!
FEELIN' GOOD BY PAPI
Papi led off the Masquerade with this lovely vocal performance to Nina Simone's 1965 hit.
SHARK CAPONE
This entertaining skit fit in well with the con's "Roaring 20s" theme!
MR. BIG BY SYM
This was Sym's 16th straight appearance at the Anthrocon Masquerade, quite an incredible feat! This year his act centered upon a Anthrocon themed version of Mr. Big from Zootopia,
HAMILTON PENNYWISE ON GUITAR
Hamilton has become regular fixture at Anthrocon's Masquerade with his awesome guitar skills, and this year's performance was no exception!
FLAG ROUTINE BY SNOWY
A beautifully choreographed flag dance.
RHUBARB THE BEAR
The talented Beeton sings "Miracles" by Coldplay.
CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN BY SUNDANCE WOLF
What a beautiful voice! Sundance wowed the crowd with a fantastic rendition of "Climb Every Mountain," even performing in her stunning realistic wolf suit.
ZOOTOPIA 2: THE DANCE COMP
This was a really clever and fun skit featuring Judy Hopps from Zootopia and a cast of colorful characters as they cross over to the world of Anthrocon and fursuit dancing!
VELVETY PIPES (TRY EVERYTHING) BY SCURROW
Love it or hate it, Zootopia's theme song "Try Everything" has taken the furry fandom, and the world, by storm. The always-entertaining Scurrow pays homage to the song as only he can in this belly-busting accordion rendition.
NOBODY'S PERFECT BY CHAL
This sounded pretty perfect to me! The talented and adorable lizard Chal shows off his awesome guitar skills.
SUPERMAN'S DEAD BY COBALT
Cobalt get the crowd involved in a wonderful rendition of Superman's Dead by 90s alternative rock band Our Lady Peace.
CELESTIAL BALL BY TIEN LONG
Martial arts expert and Eastern Dragon Tien Long floored the audience with this masterful dance performance. That's a real sword, kids!
ROCK AND ROLL DRAGON BY RASHONI
Rashoni lit up the stage to end the 2016 Anthrocon Masquerade with a high-energy rock solo on bass, accompanied by the show's many fursuit participants.
First and foremost a HUGE shout out to
phillyphox and chaosreign who did a tremendous job filming me while I was in suit this year. Without them the many clips of a Hawaiian Lion spreading fursuiting joy around the convention and downtown Pittsburgh would not have been possible. Chaos also shot the entire Fursuit Parade (link below).(click on the bold titles to go directly to the video)
Click here to go directly to my YouTube channel
Here's my annual fursuiting compilation featuring all of the entertaining footage I was able to capture from this year's Anthrocon! Lots of great moments in this one, with much cute adorbs mixed in. I tried to strike a balance of clips from the Westin, Convention Center and also out on the streets with the locals enjoying the fursuiters.
FURSUITING FUN WITH KIJANI AND FRIENDS
ALL TEH HUGZ!!! I did a lot of fursuiting at AC this year, and had a ton of fun performing my character all over the convention space and out in the streets of Pittsburgh! If you interacted with me in suit at the con, you are most likely in this video somewhere :)
Thank you to all the wonderfully kind people who stopped to say hi, get a hug or a photo, and said many kind words about my videos or being inspirational in their path to fursuiting and/or the furry fandom. It really warms my heart to know I've helped others and that's what keeps me going!
FURSUIT PARADE (WORLD RECORD)
The Anthrocon 2016 Fursuit Parade was by far the largest of its kind ever held in the world, featuring an incredible 2,100 fursuits! While this video was shot in the Convention Center near the end of the parade route, all the participants had a blast taking the parade outside and hamming it up for the thousands of Pittsburgh locals who came to watch the spectacle in person.
MONDAY MORNING GOODBYE FURSUITING
Always a tear-jerker video, a yearly tradition of mine at Anthrocon is to fursuit in the lobby of the Westin on Monday morning to give departing attendees one last fursuit hug and happy memory, and wish them well on their journeys home. It's a very emotional outing for everyone involved and this year (my 4th year doing it) was no exception. The feels were very real this year as I set the footage two versions of the chilling song "What Hurts the Most" by Rascall Flatts and Cascada (slow mix).
FURSUITING FUN AT TONIC
Another fun Anthrocon tradition is to go fursuiting at Tonic, the happenin' bar across the street from the Westin! Always a great time with the festive atmosphere and posing for photos with the many friendly local furry watchers.
OPENING AND CLOSING CEREMONIES HIGHLIGHTS
Features Guest of Honor and charity introductions, introductions from the Board of Directors, the record-breaking final numbers from the convention (attendees/fursuiters/charity donation) and some humorous highlights.
BROOKES FAMILY FURSUIT WELCOME
A bunch of fantastic fursuiters made an appearance on Thursday night of Anthrocon to welcome a very special guest named Chris Brookes and his family to the convention.
Chris, who has a wonderful attitude and great personality despite the many challenges he faces in everyday life, loves fursuiters and one of his biggest wishes was to attend Anthrocon and meet his favorite characters in person. Through the hard work of Tycho Aussie to organize this meet & greet as well as the efforts of everyone you see here in this video, we were able to make one young man's dream come true! This is what furry fandom, and fursuiting, is all about and it was a great honor to be asked to attend this event for this deserving young man.
FURSUITING BEYOND THE CON PANEL
At Anthrocon 2016, I hosted my "Fursuiting Beyond the Con" panel that I've presented at Rainfurrest and BLFC in past years. While the early morning time slot meant a smaller audience, I was thrilled to bring my experience and knowledge of public fursuiting to AC and help others that are looking get involved and bring some fursuiting fun and magic to their own hometown.
Q/A WITH JOAQUIN BALDWIN, GUEST OF HONOR
Anthrocon was fortunate to have award-winning Disney animator and layout artist Joaquin Baldwin as one of its Guests of Honor for 2016, and he took the time to answer many animation and career-related questions at one of his panels over the weekend. Baldwin worked on Disney's Zootopia, Wreck-It Ralph, Big Hero 6, Frozen and has earned well over 100 awards for his other animated shorts including Sebastian's Voodoo and Papiroflexia. It was interesting to hear his thought process that goes into his projects and he offered a lot of insight into the field that surely helped any aspiring animators in the audience.
FURRY FEUD MARRIAGE PROPOSAL
While the rest of this show was more or less a train wreck... one definite highlight was a surprise proposal that went down during the first round of Furry Feud at Anthrocon 2016. Very special moment for this lovely couple and really cool to witness something like this!
FURSUIT DANCE COMPETITION
Always a personal highlight of the con for me, I love watching the fandom's most talented dancers show their skills on stage! Thanks to Ronnie, I was able to score front-row seats to give a new angle to the dance comp videos that I've been doing (usually from stage right) since 2010.
AC 2016 FURSUIT DANCE HIGHLIGHT REEL
This is one of my favorite con videos to put together - my traditional Dance Competition "Highlight Reel" featuring clips from each of the 25 dancers (individual and group entries) that made the finals. This is the only video that features the performances of Tao (3rd place, Novice) and Whisper Banshee (1st place, Novice) as their videos were not uploadable due to song copyright.
GROUP DANCE AND JUDGING RESULTS
Short video of all the participants dancing onstage and the final results from the judges. Love to see everyone supporting all the placers!
DANCERS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER (click on the name to watch the video)
ALBA
ANDROMEDA
ALEX PHOENIX
DRE
DARCY (2nd place, Novice)
GALE AND STROBES
KIRAL
KOTTO (3rd place, Veteran)
LAZULI
MOJITO
LAZULI
NERO
PARTY WOLF
PAZREY
PRISM
PUPPIES!!!
MYKE LABRAWOLF (1st place, Veteran)
SAPPHIRE JACK
SNIPER
T (2nd place, Veteran)
TJ
THE TROUBLEMAKERS
TZUKI
RONNIE, JD & ATSU - EXHIBITION
MASQUERADE - I've been attending the AC Masquerade every year since 2010 and this year was by far the best as far as entertaining and talented acts. It was a GREAT show all around!
FEELIN' GOOD BY PAPI
Papi led off the Masquerade with this lovely vocal performance to Nina Simone's 1965 hit.
SHARK CAPONE
This entertaining skit fit in well with the con's "Roaring 20s" theme!
MR. BIG BY SYM
This was Sym's 16th straight appearance at the Anthrocon Masquerade, quite an incredible feat! This year his act centered upon a Anthrocon themed version of Mr. Big from Zootopia,
HAMILTON PENNYWISE ON GUITAR
Hamilton has become regular fixture at Anthrocon's Masquerade with his awesome guitar skills, and this year's performance was no exception!
FLAG ROUTINE BY SNOWY
A beautifully choreographed flag dance.
RHUBARB THE BEAR
The talented Beeton sings "Miracles" by Coldplay.
CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN BY SUNDANCE WOLF
What a beautiful voice! Sundance wowed the crowd with a fantastic rendition of "Climb Every Mountain," even performing in her stunning realistic wolf suit.
ZOOTOPIA 2: THE DANCE COMP
This was a really clever and fun skit featuring Judy Hopps from Zootopia and a cast of colorful characters as they cross over to the world of Anthrocon and fursuit dancing!
VELVETY PIPES (TRY EVERYTHING) BY SCURROW
Love it or hate it, Zootopia's theme song "Try Everything" has taken the furry fandom, and the world, by storm. The always-entertaining Scurrow pays homage to the song as only he can in this belly-busting accordion rendition.
NOBODY'S PERFECT BY CHAL
This sounded pretty perfect to me! The talented and adorable lizard Chal shows off his awesome guitar skills.
SUPERMAN'S DEAD BY COBALT
Cobalt get the crowd involved in a wonderful rendition of Superman's Dead by 90s alternative rock band Our Lady Peace.
CELESTIAL BALL BY TIEN LONG
Martial arts expert and Eastern Dragon Tien Long floored the audience with this masterful dance performance. That's a real sword, kids!
ROCK AND ROLL DRAGON BY RASHONI
Rashoni lit up the stage to end the 2016 Anthrocon Masquerade with a high-energy rock solo on bass, accompanied by the show's many fursuit participants.
Anthrocon 2016 Live from the Con Blog - Sunday
General | Posted 9 years agoI was hemming and hawing last night about whether or not to try the Fursuit Games (which changed from previous years to the dreadfully early start time of 9am), and decided to check out something else on the schedule that piqued my interest called "Furry Language."
It was actually based off an 80s game show called Body Language where teams had to solve charades to give them clues towards the solution to a riddle, and as much as I love game shows I chose to do that in suit instead of the Games. That was a great decision as the host was very experienced and ran the game very well, I was picked for the first one and our team ended up winning (even though I only got my partner to guess 2 out of 5 words when I did the charades. For my efforts I won a year's supply of Rice-A-Roni... I mean a Mr. Big plush from the Disney Store!
Time was tight after that so I ran up to the room and desuited to head down with chaosreign to the art show where I discovered I did indeed win my piece from last night. But I also pleasantly discovered that I not only had bids on all of my own pieces, but that two of them were in the TRIPLE digits... I had never in my wildest dreams thought my photography was worth that much, but I really improved my presentation this year (the two that went for high amounts were printed on canvas and a framed, matted poster) which really helped.
So knowing I had a good haul coming in, I decided to snipe a couple additional pieces in the general section, including a very intricate woodwork wall hanging for Chaos that said "Beware of Dragons" with a dragon insignia carved out. It wasn't cheap, but it was the least I could do for everything he did for me this whole con.
After that it was time to run up for my favorite event of the con, the Fursuit Dance Competition Finals! I need to mention that for the past 7 years I have been coming to Anthrocon, I have painstakingly recorded, processed and uploaded each of the entries in their entirety, judging and all, as well as a Dance Comp "highlight reel" video that puts all 20 or 25 entries together. It's been hundreds of hours or work for sure, and while I do get the occasional "thank you" message from a dancer, just the fact that I'm able to help a dancer see himself
The Dance Comp emcee, skyryd3r (Ronnie) I think recognized that and gave me a reserved, front row seat at the show. I was really touched by that offer and graciously accepted, with Chaos next to me taking still photos with his awesome camera and skills.
The show was incredible as always, there were 25 entries this year so it did feel a little rushed to get everyone in, but the talent, as always, was there. It was about a 50/50 varied mix of veterans that had been on stage many times before, and many that I was seeing for the first time. I kind of wish I could have just enjoyed the show with my own eyes instead of on a camera viewfinder, but I had a job to do and hope everyone enjoys my efforts - the large front speaker got into the way a few times and the official video feed cameraman stood in the worst place during a couple of the dancer's routines, but overall I think the footage was better than my usual spot.
I believe it was Mike the Labrawuff winning the Veteran category after an awesome, high-energy performance to Michael Jackson, but one of many highlights for me was Gale & Strobes duo entry, they just have such unbelievably good on-stage chemistry!
I did get to sit by Chris (the young man who we had the special welcome for on Thursday night) during the performance, and got to chat with him a bit before the show which was a wonderful moment, and got to say goodbye to his mom as well after the show as they were heading home shortly after. I know this weekend was extremely memorable and magical for him and that's what Anthrocon is all about!
After that I had to run down to the Art Show to check out, an always-laborious process. Fortunately I did not have to check out as well since all my pieces sold, and I was able to get in and out of there in about 40 minutes.
THANK YOU to everyone who bid and won my stuff in the art show!!!
I then made a very spur-of-the-moment decision to fursuit to closing ceremonies. I had never done so in my 7 years attending AC, but I really hadn't done anything in suit the whole day besides the one morning panel, so I figured why not?
The first thing I had to do was head back to the art show because this derp lion forgot his camera bag in the bag check area. On the way I had a most delightful interaction with a family with three small kids, which really reminded me why I did this! There were a LOT of suiters hanging around before closing, both up on the rooftop where I did an impromptu photoshoot and near the main theater area, and had lots of fun with other fursuiters. Philly and Kitwana were also there with their cameras, and all of a sudden Kitwana says, "Turn around!" and there they were, Mufasa and Scar fursuiters in the flesh... well in the fur!
I jumped up and managed to get some photos with them, that right there really made my con. Videoing was much harder in suit, even with paws off (I dare not de-head in any con space besides the headless lounge!) but I did my best, but I probably jerked the camera in surprise when I heard the final Anthrocon 2016 numbers announced of 7,310 attendees!!! I thought maybe the high 6,000s was realistic but well over 7,000 furry fans is just... wow! And including 2,100 fursuiters, and over $30,000 raised for the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium and the wonderful work they do. It was also very nice to hear that all the Guests of Honor agreed that this was the best convention experience they had ever had in their lives Furries and Anthrocon know how to treat 'em right!
Suited for a bit more after that and visited the Headless Lounge for the first time the whole con (ironically after it was over), and shot the breeze a bit with some guys in there... the lounge really is a good place to catch up with people you only get to see once or twice a year!
Finally back to the room and just chillaxing until the Staff Dinner at 8pm. I got so into editing the photos and videos I took, I was almost late to the dinner!
Fortunately our publications head xydexx had saved me a seat at our table. Dinner was great as always, main courses of herbed salmon and roast chicken, with wild mushroom risotto, fingerling potatoes, roasted veggies, salads and some very good carrot cake. It was a wonderful meal and just as if on cue, during the dinner Mother Nature treated us to an incredible sunset, just as one of the most amazing conventions in history was wrapping up, such a vivid memory and perfect visual that will stay with me a long time.
I chatted with the charity lead Rigel for a little bit, and found that the Zootopia banner that was up in the charity auction sold for $1,000, one of many things that went for a four-figure amount! After dinner I offered to help Xy carry some leftover conbooks to the Westin, and with 3 of us helping we did it in one trip.
Now that the convention center was closed, there were a TON of fursuiters out and about the Westin, perhaps for the Dead Dog, but I was so exhausted I decided to retire to the room for the night and just take it easy and reminisce a bit and work on this journal as well as the mounds of video I'll have to go through to help with the PCD.
Anthrocon 2016 was special in so many ways, the 20th anniversary of the premiere furry convention in the world (at the staff dinner I got to meet a couple that have staffed ALL 20), the world-record breaking parade that many thousands of people, children and families got to enjoy for free, so many people stopping to thank me for making videos, doing what I do up in Seattle and being an inspiration to them in some way. Quality time with some great con roommates, I've always said good roomies really add to the con experience.
Everything together creates the overall AC experience, and why I refuse to miss this con even though geographically it's one of the farthest away from where I live in the country. It's just that good.
Thankfully I do have one more enjoyable day coming up with Harley, Spats, Philly and some more friends at his traditional cookout before flying home Tuesday morning, always a good way to wind down the trip. It will be an emotional flight back as it will be the one-year anniversary of my father's death and I'll be thinking about him a lot, but I know he would be proud of what I've been able to accomplish since his passing, particularly in the furry fandom and my nonprofit's charity work.
Thank you Anthrocon, we will see you again next year!
It was actually based off an 80s game show called Body Language where teams had to solve charades to give them clues towards the solution to a riddle, and as much as I love game shows I chose to do that in suit instead of the Games. That was a great decision as the host was very experienced and ran the game very well, I was picked for the first one and our team ended up winning (even though I only got my partner to guess 2 out of 5 words when I did the charades. For my efforts I won a year's supply of Rice-A-Roni... I mean a Mr. Big plush from the Disney Store!
Time was tight after that so I ran up to the room and desuited to head down with
chaosreign to the art show where I discovered I did indeed win my piece from last night. But I also pleasantly discovered that I not only had bids on all of my own pieces, but that two of them were in the TRIPLE digits... I had never in my wildest dreams thought my photography was worth that much, but I really improved my presentation this year (the two that went for high amounts were printed on canvas and a framed, matted poster) which really helped.So knowing I had a good haul coming in, I decided to snipe a couple additional pieces in the general section, including a very intricate woodwork wall hanging for Chaos that said "Beware of Dragons" with a dragon insignia carved out. It wasn't cheap, but it was the least I could do for everything he did for me this whole con.
After that it was time to run up for my favorite event of the con, the Fursuit Dance Competition Finals! I need to mention that for the past 7 years I have been coming to Anthrocon, I have painstakingly recorded, processed and uploaded each of the entries in their entirety, judging and all, as well as a Dance Comp "highlight reel" video that puts all 20 or 25 entries together. It's been hundreds of hours or work for sure, and while I do get the occasional "thank you" message from a dancer, just the fact that I'm able to help a dancer see himself
The Dance Comp emcee,
skyryd3r (Ronnie) I think recognized that and gave me a reserved, front row seat at the show. I was really touched by that offer and graciously accepted, with Chaos next to me taking still photos with his awesome camera and skills.The show was incredible as always, there were 25 entries this year so it did feel a little rushed to get everyone in, but the talent, as always, was there. It was about a 50/50 varied mix of veterans that had been on stage many times before, and many that I was seeing for the first time. I kind of wish I could have just enjoyed the show with my own eyes instead of on a camera viewfinder, but I had a job to do and hope everyone enjoys my efforts - the large front speaker got into the way a few times and the official video feed cameraman stood in the worst place during a couple of the dancer's routines, but overall I think the footage was better than my usual spot.
I believe it was Mike the Labrawuff winning the Veteran category after an awesome, high-energy performance to Michael Jackson, but one of many highlights for me was Gale & Strobes duo entry, they just have such unbelievably good on-stage chemistry!
I did get to sit by Chris (the young man who we had the special welcome for on Thursday night) during the performance, and got to chat with him a bit before the show which was a wonderful moment, and got to say goodbye to his mom as well after the show as they were heading home shortly after. I know this weekend was extremely memorable and magical for him and that's what Anthrocon is all about!
After that I had to run down to the Art Show to check out, an always-laborious process. Fortunately I did not have to check out as well since all my pieces sold, and I was able to get in and out of there in about 40 minutes.
THANK YOU to everyone who bid and won my stuff in the art show!!!
I then made a very spur-of-the-moment decision to fursuit to closing ceremonies. I had never done so in my 7 years attending AC, but I really hadn't done anything in suit the whole day besides the one morning panel, so I figured why not?
The first thing I had to do was head back to the art show because this derp lion forgot his camera bag in the bag check area. On the way I had a most delightful interaction with a family with three small kids, which really reminded me why I did this! There were a LOT of suiters hanging around before closing, both up on the rooftop where I did an impromptu photoshoot and near the main theater area, and had lots of fun with other fursuiters. Philly and Kitwana were also there with their cameras, and all of a sudden Kitwana says, "Turn around!" and there they were, Mufasa and Scar fursuiters in the flesh... well in the fur!
I jumped up and managed to get some photos with them, that right there really made my con. Videoing was much harder in suit, even with paws off (I dare not de-head in any con space besides the headless lounge!) but I did my best, but I probably jerked the camera in surprise when I heard the final Anthrocon 2016 numbers announced of 7,310 attendees!!! I thought maybe the high 6,000s was realistic but well over 7,000 furry fans is just... wow! And including 2,100 fursuiters, and over $30,000 raised for the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium and the wonderful work they do. It was also very nice to hear that all the Guests of Honor agreed that this was the best convention experience they had ever had in their lives Furries and Anthrocon know how to treat 'em right!
Suited for a bit more after that and visited the Headless Lounge for the first time the whole con (ironically after it was over), and shot the breeze a bit with some guys in there... the lounge really is a good place to catch up with people you only get to see once or twice a year!
Finally back to the room and just chillaxing until the Staff Dinner at 8pm. I got so into editing the photos and videos I took, I was almost late to the dinner!
Fortunately our publications head
xydexx had saved me a seat at our table. Dinner was great as always, main courses of herbed salmon and roast chicken, with wild mushroom risotto, fingerling potatoes, roasted veggies, salads and some very good carrot cake. It was a wonderful meal and just as if on cue, during the dinner Mother Nature treated us to an incredible sunset, just as one of the most amazing conventions in history was wrapping up, such a vivid memory and perfect visual that will stay with me a long time. I chatted with the charity lead Rigel for a little bit, and found that the Zootopia banner that was up in the charity auction sold for $1,000, one of many things that went for a four-figure amount! After dinner I offered to help Xy carry some leftover conbooks to the Westin, and with 3 of us helping we did it in one trip.
Now that the convention center was closed, there were a TON of fursuiters out and about the Westin, perhaps for the Dead Dog, but I was so exhausted I decided to retire to the room for the night and just take it easy and reminisce a bit and work on this journal as well as the mounds of video I'll have to go through to help with the PCD.
Anthrocon 2016 was special in so many ways, the 20th anniversary of the premiere furry convention in the world (at the staff dinner I got to meet a couple that have staffed ALL 20), the world-record breaking parade that many thousands of people, children and families got to enjoy for free, so many people stopping to thank me for making videos, doing what I do up in Seattle and being an inspiration to them in some way. Quality time with some great con roommates, I've always said good roomies really add to the con experience.
Everything together creates the overall AC experience, and why I refuse to miss this con even though geographically it's one of the farthest away from where I live in the country. It's just that good.
Thankfully I do have one more enjoyable day coming up with Harley, Spats, Philly and some more friends at his traditional cookout before flying home Tuesday morning, always a good way to wind down the trip. It will be an emotional flight back as it will be the one-year anniversary of my father's death and I'll be thinking about him a lot, but I know he would be proud of what I've been able to accomplish since his passing, particularly in the furry fandom and my nonprofit's charity work.
Thank you Anthrocon, we will see you again next year!
Anthrocon 2016 Live from the Con Blog - Saturday
General | Posted 9 years agoIf I had to pick one day of the year that is truly most memorable for me, I would be hesitant to choose anything other than Saturday at Anthrocon. It's just that magical, on a grand and epic scale.
The day started a little rough as I got much less sleep than I had anticipated, and made my way to my Fursuiting Beyond the Con panel at 9am in the giant lecture hall in the DLCC. There were only about 10 people there when I got to the room, and the microphone didn't work! Thankfully the A/V team was unbelievably fast to respond to my request and got me a working microphone and stand, and during that time about 15 more people had filed into the room so we had a decent turnout, with more straggling in late. I was a bit nervous about bringing this panel to Anthrocon, but I think I did well with some help from kitwanalion and 
tychoaussie who offered their advice too.
Then I ran into the dealer's room to place my tickets for the charity raffle - there were only two lion-related prizes that I wanted, a pair of throw pillowcases and a large Folkmanis puppet, so I split my $10 in tickets equally into both. Hopefully I get lucky!
chaosreign and I then took the walk to Pizza Parma to use our free lunch coupons, one of which he inherited from phillyphox who attended the Supersponsor luncheon. I heard much buzzing about the parade during that time as we were only about T-minus 2 hours away, so I met Philly back up in the room and we got suited up for it, with Chaos grabbing a prime spot for video in the corridor heading into the dealer's room.
Having experienced the parade last year, I had an idea of what it would be like, but this year with all the additional promotion and press the parade received from various outlets, all of it seemed multiplied to an exponential degree. There were hundreds of chairs set up for the public that lined the inside of the corridor underneath the Convention Center on 10th avenue, and rows upon rows of spectators with more wide-eyed, smiling children than I could ever count. You would have thought we were rock stars walking the red carpet at Disneyland! The crowd was cheering the whole time, and while the outdoor portion went very slowly, the pure adrenaline rush of it kept us going. I went pretty crazy during the public part (which was early in the route this year), including high-fiving or hugging just about every kid I saw and also jumping around with a very excited young woman for a good 10+ seconds, so I didn't leave much in the tank for the rest of the parade but I did my best. To me, going all out for the people of Pittsburgh was the most important, for all this City does for the convention and the love they show us, we give in return.
After the parade, which was excruciatingly long (nearly 90 minutes, as it was decided to run it single-file this year so everyone could see every suit), I hung out with some really fun people in Hall A (our staging area) and got to catch up with the awesome
flowkitty for a while until the parade ended, when Kitwana, Philly and I hit the streets to continue the magic with some of the straggling bystanders, which surprisingly had cleared out very quickly from the parade route. I don't think the public was expecting a 90-minute parade!
Anyway this was great fun, we didn't have a lot of interactions as we just did one square block from the Westin to Ten Penny, down the sidewalk to Tonic and back to the Westin, but every interaction we did have was pure gold. From bringing a truly happy smile to a special-needs kid in a wheelchair, to entertaining diners on the outdoor patio at Ten Penny by pretending to pour ketchup on my zebra ham plush, it was fun memories for all. In all seriousness, if other cities were even half as furry-friendly as Pittsburgh, fursuiters wouldn't have to worry about fursuiting in public ever again!
After nearly 3 hours in suit it was time to call it, back to the room for a quick shower and putting all of my lion parts on fans. I did take a bit of time to come down from the absolute high I was on from that afternoon's fursuiting and then went down to the art show to place a bid on a piece that I will definitely not allow my mother to see when I return from Anthrocon. Didn't stick around to see if I won though, as I it was time for Furry Feud!
I LOVE game shows and always try to attend any game show related panel or event at cons, but I am sad to report that this year's Furry Feud was Furry Fail <cue Price is Right losing horn>. The team putting it together was very unprepared and ran into a whole host of problems running the flash software for the game. I understand they were comedians and trying to entertain the crowd, but I would have rather had more game and less (sometimes funny, sometimes drab) jokes. They did get one game in eventually but man it was disappointing. Starskunk at Rainfurrest 2015 did an absolutely incredible job hosting this show and the same program ran almost to perfection, hopefully next time they'll figure it out. The one highlight was that there was a marriage proposal during one of the delays, which was quite emotional and drew a huge reaction from the crowd.
Bounced right back however with one of the most incredible meals i've had at a con, or really anywhere else for that matter, dinner at Seviche (latin fusion) with Chaos, Philly, harleybadger and spatsbear. Great food and great company, we started with an assortment of appetizers from fresh sushi to some of the best tacos I've ever had, and I finished with a main course of salmon served with a seafood poke over bamboo rice. Everything was just absolutely superb.
I felt bad because I left early to get a decent seat for the Masquerade - fortunately I did only about 6 rows back with a clear view of the stage. I have to say that having attended the AC Masquerade every year since 2010, this year's was far and away the BEST I've seen as far as quality of the acts and performances. Everyone did incredible, and it was a treat to watch. Personal highlight for me was
tienlong (Ronnie) doing a martial arts skit, featuring acrobatics, swords and everything, in his eastern Dragon suit. Caught up to him later that night and his first words upon complimenting were "I'm too old for this!" lol.
Spent the rest of the night just getting some good video and photos for my compilation, as I didn't get that much earlier in the day since I was out suiting for so long. Thought briefly about jumping into Kijani but the dance would be almost over by the time I got there, so decided to call it a night, in part to a nasty blister on my left foot that would have made things not as fun.
Still got a pretty full Sunday planned, and of course one of the absolute highlights of the con for me, the Fursuit Dance Competition!
Kijani's Moment of the Day: During the parade there were many great moments, but two stand out in my mind. Most of the kids were content with a high-five, but this one girl wouldn't let me pass without a hug. Arms open wide, she had the biggest smile on her face and said, "I wanna hug, Mister Lion!" Of course, I was happy to oblige. The second was mentioned earlier, this young lady was absolutely enamored by my suit and started jumping up and down wildly when she saw me. So we locked hands and I joined her! Round and round, in circles we went, until I saw that quite the gap had formed in front of me in the parade. Oops! Sorry guys
The day started a little rough as I got much less sleep than I had anticipated, and made my way to my Fursuiting Beyond the Con panel at 9am in the giant lecture hall in the DLCC. There were only about 10 people there when I got to the room, and the microphone didn't work! Thankfully the A/V team was unbelievably fast to respond to my request and got me a working microphone and stand, and during that time about 15 more people had filed into the room so we had a decent turnout, with more straggling in late. I was a bit nervous about bringing this panel to Anthrocon, but I think I did well with some help from
kitwanalion and 
tychoaussie who offered their advice too. Then I ran into the dealer's room to place my tickets for the charity raffle - there were only two lion-related prizes that I wanted, a pair of throw pillowcases and a large Folkmanis puppet, so I split my $10 in tickets equally into both. Hopefully I get lucky!
chaosreign and I then took the walk to Pizza Parma to use our free lunch coupons, one of which he inherited from phillyphox who attended the Supersponsor luncheon. I heard much buzzing about the parade during that time as we were only about T-minus 2 hours away, so I met Philly back up in the room and we got suited up for it, with Chaos grabbing a prime spot for video in the corridor heading into the dealer's room.Having experienced the parade last year, I had an idea of what it would be like, but this year with all the additional promotion and press the parade received from various outlets, all of it seemed multiplied to an exponential degree. There were hundreds of chairs set up for the public that lined the inside of the corridor underneath the Convention Center on 10th avenue, and rows upon rows of spectators with more wide-eyed, smiling children than I could ever count. You would have thought we were rock stars walking the red carpet at Disneyland! The crowd was cheering the whole time, and while the outdoor portion went very slowly, the pure adrenaline rush of it kept us going. I went pretty crazy during the public part (which was early in the route this year), including high-fiving or hugging just about every kid I saw and also jumping around with a very excited young woman for a good 10+ seconds, so I didn't leave much in the tank for the rest of the parade but I did my best. To me, going all out for the people of Pittsburgh was the most important, for all this City does for the convention and the love they show us, we give in return.
After the parade, which was excruciatingly long (nearly 90 minutes, as it was decided to run it single-file this year so everyone could see every suit), I hung out with some really fun people in Hall A (our staging area) and got to catch up with the awesome
flowkitty for a while until the parade ended, when Kitwana, Philly and I hit the streets to continue the magic with some of the straggling bystanders, which surprisingly had cleared out very quickly from the parade route. I don't think the public was expecting a 90-minute parade!Anyway this was great fun, we didn't have a lot of interactions as we just did one square block from the Westin to Ten Penny, down the sidewalk to Tonic and back to the Westin, but every interaction we did have was pure gold. From bringing a truly happy smile to a special-needs kid in a wheelchair, to entertaining diners on the outdoor patio at Ten Penny by pretending to pour ketchup on my zebra ham plush, it was fun memories for all. In all seriousness, if other cities were even half as furry-friendly as Pittsburgh, fursuiters wouldn't have to worry about fursuiting in public ever again!
After nearly 3 hours in suit it was time to call it, back to the room for a quick shower and putting all of my lion parts on fans. I did take a bit of time to come down from the absolute high I was on from that afternoon's fursuiting and then went down to the art show to place a bid on a piece that I will definitely not allow my mother to see when I return from Anthrocon. Didn't stick around to see if I won though, as I it was time for Furry Feud!
I LOVE game shows and always try to attend any game show related panel or event at cons, but I am sad to report that this year's Furry Feud was Furry Fail <cue Price is Right losing horn>. The team putting it together was very unprepared and ran into a whole host of problems running the flash software for the game. I understand they were comedians and trying to entertain the crowd, but I would have rather had more game and less (sometimes funny, sometimes drab) jokes. They did get one game in eventually but man it was disappointing. Starskunk at Rainfurrest 2015 did an absolutely incredible job hosting this show and the same program ran almost to perfection, hopefully next time they'll figure it out. The one highlight was that there was a marriage proposal during one of the delays, which was quite emotional and drew a huge reaction from the crowd.
Bounced right back however with one of the most incredible meals i've had at a con, or really anywhere else for that matter, dinner at Seviche (latin fusion) with Chaos, Philly,
harleybadger and spatsbear. Great food and great company, we started with an assortment of appetizers from fresh sushi to some of the best tacos I've ever had, and I finished with a main course of salmon served with a seafood poke over bamboo rice. Everything was just absolutely superb.I felt bad because I left early to get a decent seat for the Masquerade - fortunately I did only about 6 rows back with a clear view of the stage. I have to say that having attended the AC Masquerade every year since 2010, this year's was far and away the BEST I've seen as far as quality of the acts and performances. Everyone did incredible, and it was a treat to watch. Personal highlight for me was
tienlong (Ronnie) doing a martial arts skit, featuring acrobatics, swords and everything, in his eastern Dragon suit. Caught up to him later that night and his first words upon complimenting were "I'm too old for this!" lol.Spent the rest of the night just getting some good video and photos for my compilation, as I didn't get that much earlier in the day since I was out suiting for so long. Thought briefly about jumping into Kijani but the dance would be almost over by the time I got there, so decided to call it a night, in part to a nasty blister on my left foot that would have made things not as fun.
Still got a pretty full Sunday planned, and of course one of the absolute highlights of the con for me, the Fursuit Dance Competition!
Kijani's Moment of the Day: During the parade there were many great moments, but two stand out in my mind. Most of the kids were content with a high-five, but this one girl wouldn't let me pass without a hug. Arms open wide, she had the biggest smile on her face and said, "I wanna hug, Mister Lion!" Of course, I was happy to oblige. The second was mentioned earlier, this young lady was absolutely enamored by my suit and started jumping up and down wildly when she saw me. So we locked hands and I joined her! Round and round, in circles we went, until I saw that quite the gap had formed in front of me in the parade. Oops! Sorry guys
Anthrocon 2016 Live From the Con Blog - Friday
General | Posted 9 years agoThis one will have to be quick as it's 1:15 am and I have to be up very early to show up at the Masquerade rehearsals and then my Fursuiting Beyond the Con panel bright and early at 9am!
Attended Opening as usual and recorded it from the back, the intro was a very nice surprise as Fox Amoore and Pepper Coyote combined to perform an original song celebrating Anthrocon's 20th year. Other than that the typical fare of Kage introducing the GoHs and reps from this year's Charity coming up (Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium), they even brought a couple of their mascots, a rhino and polar bear, which was pretty neat.
After that Mr. Sleepyhead chaosreign joined phillyphox kitwanalion and I for lunch at Furnandos, which was just as good as always. Steak and cheese for me, possibly a lasagna wrap next time (as good as they are, just not that filling for hungry lions!)
Quick run to CVS pharmacy next as it was only a couple blocks away, my con roommates had already drank the entirety of the water I brought, so I restocked our room with a 24-pack that should last us through the weekend. But with 4 fursuiters in the room that might not be enough!
After a very long walk back to the room, it was time for furry shopping! I brought my Anthrocon staff bag I got many years go and filled it to the brim quite literally with stops at the Con Store (bought the 2016 shirt which is one of the coolest designs I have ever seen by GoH Tracy Butler), a couple things at Sofawolf Press including Kyell Gold's final installment in the Out of Position series, "Over Time", another PERFECT shirt for me that says "YOU BETTER BRING ME SOME &%$#! TACOS!" some spiffy looking decals, a Usagi Yojimbo comic... and I had still had more than 1/3 of the dealer room to go!
I picked up my badge preorder from Kiriska, who did an amazing job with my character! I got a "waist up" badge and she nailed my classic Hawaiian shirt and lei, and I was holding a bowling ball with a scheming expression on my face. Loved it!
Back to the room to suit up for my first Kijani outing of Anthrocon! (not counting Thursday night as I didn't really go around the con space). I did my usual route from the Westin, going across the skybridge into the convention center, up to the roof for a bit (unfortunately almost nobody up there), and back to the atrium area, down to the dealer's room and back under the DLCC to the hotel.
It was so much fun and I got emotional at times as attendees told me stories of how watching my videos had either brought them into the fandom, inspired them to start fursuiting or even just helped them through some difficult times and gave them hope and purpose. Even though I don't talk in character, I listened to every one and gave them a big lion hug at the end!
Hanging out in the Westin Lobby was great fun as well, constant flow of fursuiters to interact with and hugs to give. Finally called it to make it (albeit late) to Disney animator Joaquin Baldwin's Q&A session. It was very interesting learning about his background and his thought process to animation - a lot of technical info went over my head but was still very informative.
That let out early so Chaos and I went down to the Art show to browse before it closed at 6pm, I actually found a number of pieces I was interested in and made notes to bid on Saturday. I was pleasantly surprised to see my photos were doing quite well, especially the canvas print "In Love with a Log" which was already up to $55, quite a relief as I spend quite a bit to get that printed.
After that I decided to repay Philly for all the times he has videoed me at past years at Anthrocon and go behind the camera for the first time and film him for an outing! It was my pleasure and a really fun experience to see it from the other side, and I know I got some great footage for him to use.
Our dinner reservation for Nicky's Thai (one of the best restaurants near the con in my opinion) and had a wonderful dinner with Philly, Chaos, tychoaussie and his neighbor JJ. I decided to be boring and got Phad Thai which was decent, along with some excellent Tom Yum soup.
Finally after digesting all those carbs I did my traditional Tonic outing (I believe that's one of the few things I have done EVERY year of Anthrocon, if I'm not mistaken) with my friend Reto (Kitwana). We had an absolute blast out there bringing some smiles and fond memories to the fun-loving, quite-inebriated people across the street and even got an opportunity to pose next to a $250,000 Lamborghini parked a few spots down!
That and Yuengling is a really really tasty beer. I wish we had it on the west coast.
Among many other awesome people (many of which I don't recall their names) I also ran into
snapetiger which was freaking amazing as I hadn't seen him in years - he made Kato, a suit I had commissioned that Reto now owns, and Kitwana was also made by Snap.
Anyway wow what a day, and I can't believe it's only Friday! I think... no... I KNOW I broke a personal record today for fursuit hugs given which is a good warm fuzzy feeling.
Looking forward to doing a good job with the panel tomorrow morning (flying solo for that one, with a little fursuit demonstration help from Kitwana), and an awesome experience with the fursuit parade... it will be one epic event for the City of Pittsburgh!
Kijani's Moment of the Day: There were so many, but one really stands out - in front of Tonic, I received a very warm hug from someone, and the first thing he said was sorry for the loss of my dad, and then he added that he was a wonderful man and that everything I am doing in my life is to honor him, and that he would be so proud. That was the one time I let out an audible "thank you" with tears welling up in my eyes. I hadn't thought about my dad since the flight over, who passed away just days before last year's Anthrocon, and it really helped me put things in perspective. And he was right, so thank you whoever you were!
Attended Opening as usual and recorded it from the back, the intro was a very nice surprise as Fox Amoore and Pepper Coyote combined to perform an original song celebrating Anthrocon's 20th year. Other than that the typical fare of Kage introducing the GoHs and reps from this year's Charity coming up (Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium), they even brought a couple of their mascots, a rhino and polar bear, which was pretty neat.
After that Mr. Sleepyhead
chaosreign joined phillyphox kitwanalion and I for lunch at Furnandos, which was just as good as always. Steak and cheese for me, possibly a lasagna wrap next time (as good as they are, just not that filling for hungry lions!)Quick run to CVS pharmacy next as it was only a couple blocks away, my con roommates had already drank the entirety of the water I brought, so I restocked our room with a 24-pack that should last us through the weekend. But with 4 fursuiters in the room that might not be enough!
After a very long walk back to the room, it was time for furry shopping! I brought my Anthrocon staff bag I got many years go and filled it to the brim quite literally with stops at the Con Store (bought the 2016 shirt which is one of the coolest designs I have ever seen by GoH Tracy Butler), a couple things at Sofawolf Press including Kyell Gold's final installment in the Out of Position series, "Over Time", another PERFECT shirt for me that says "YOU BETTER BRING ME SOME &%$#! TACOS!" some spiffy looking decals, a Usagi Yojimbo comic... and I had still had more than 1/3 of the dealer room to go!
I picked up my badge preorder from Kiriska, who did an amazing job with my character! I got a "waist up" badge and she nailed my classic Hawaiian shirt and lei, and I was holding a bowling ball with a scheming expression on my face. Loved it!
Back to the room to suit up for my first Kijani outing of Anthrocon! (not counting Thursday night as I didn't really go around the con space). I did my usual route from the Westin, going across the skybridge into the convention center, up to the roof for a bit (unfortunately almost nobody up there), and back to the atrium area, down to the dealer's room and back under the DLCC to the hotel.
It was so much fun and I got emotional at times as attendees told me stories of how watching my videos had either brought them into the fandom, inspired them to start fursuiting or even just helped them through some difficult times and gave them hope and purpose. Even though I don't talk in character, I listened to every one and gave them a big lion hug at the end!
Hanging out in the Westin Lobby was great fun as well, constant flow of fursuiters to interact with and hugs to give. Finally called it to make it (albeit late) to Disney animator Joaquin Baldwin's Q&A session. It was very interesting learning about his background and his thought process to animation - a lot of technical info went over my head but was still very informative.
That let out early so Chaos and I went down to the Art show to browse before it closed at 6pm, I actually found a number of pieces I was interested in and made notes to bid on Saturday. I was pleasantly surprised to see my photos were doing quite well, especially the canvas print "In Love with a Log" which was already up to $55, quite a relief as I spend quite a bit to get that printed.
After that I decided to repay Philly for all the times he has videoed me at past years at Anthrocon and go behind the camera for the first time and film him for an outing! It was my pleasure and a really fun experience to see it from the other side, and I know I got some great footage for him to use.
Our dinner reservation for Nicky's Thai (one of the best restaurants near the con in my opinion) and had a wonderful dinner with Philly, Chaos,
tychoaussie and his neighbor JJ. I decided to be boring and got Phad Thai which was decent, along with some excellent Tom Yum soup.Finally after digesting all those carbs I did my traditional Tonic outing (I believe that's one of the few things I have done EVERY year of Anthrocon, if I'm not mistaken) with my friend Reto (Kitwana). We had an absolute blast out there bringing some smiles and fond memories to the fun-loving, quite-inebriated people across the street and even got an opportunity to pose next to a $250,000 Lamborghini parked a few spots down!
That and Yuengling is a really really tasty beer. I wish we had it on the west coast.
Among many other awesome people (many of which I don't recall their names) I also ran into
snapetiger which was freaking amazing as I hadn't seen him in years - he made Kato, a suit I had commissioned that Reto now owns, and Kitwana was also made by Snap.Anyway wow what a day, and I can't believe it's only Friday! I think... no... I KNOW I broke a personal record today for fursuit hugs given which is a good warm fuzzy feeling.
Looking forward to doing a good job with the panel tomorrow morning (flying solo for that one, with a little fursuit demonstration help from Kitwana), and an awesome experience with the fursuit parade... it will be one epic event for the City of Pittsburgh!
Kijani's Moment of the Day: There were so many, but one really stands out - in front of Tonic, I received a very warm hug from someone, and the first thing he said was sorry for the loss of my dad, and then he added that he was a wonderful man and that everything I am doing in my life is to honor him, and that he would be so proud. That was the one time I let out an audible "thank you" with tears welling up in my eyes. I hadn't thought about my dad since the flight over, who passed away just days before last year's Anthrocon, and it really helped me put things in perspective. And he was right, so thank you whoever you were!
Anthrocon 2016 Live From the Con Blog - Thursday
General | Posted 9 years agoBringing back my "Live from the Con" diary from AC 2016, man what an incredible first day!
Got in super late last night and didn't get to bed until close to 3:30am local time, but got a decent night's sleep at harleybadger's house and ended up hitting the road in the early afternoon with our other con roomies spatsbear phillyphox and chaosreign.
First stop was what has become a tradition of mine the last few years at Anthrocon, a stop at Primanti Bros., a local Pittsburgh icon. Once again I got an epic sandwich that was bigger than my face (and taller than it was wide!), a welcome feast after going more than 20 hours since my last meal.
After that we got into downtown around 4:30pm, and every year it really hits me that I'm here when we cross the bridge and pull up to the Convention Center and start seeing all the fursuiters, after 7 years coming here it still send chills down my spine. There was NO line at the check-in counter and I was able to get our room keys in less than 2 minutes. (on the 5th floor - lowest accessible... JACKPOT!) It is so so so nice to be on staff, and to me one of the best perks, and there are a LOT of them, is to have a room guaranteed on the 5th or 6th floor of the Westin. I never have to take an elevator up (out of suit) the entire con, being just a few flights of stairs away.
Went to Con Ops to pick up my staff packet and badge, another relatively painless experience as was the nonexistent pre-reg line (the at-con reg line, on the other hand, looked extremely painful as many attendees were reporting 3-4 hour waits or more... pre-reg people!) and went back to the room to suit up for a VERY special event organized by tychoaussie, a private fursuit meet-and-greet for the family of a special-needs teenager named Chris, who is deaf and has cerebral palsy. One of his biggest life wishes was to attend Anthrocon, and we gave him the biggest welcome possible as nearly 20 fursuiters came to the room to get photos and interact with him.
It was one of the most heartwarming experiences to bring that much joy to someone who really deserved it, and I know many of us shed a tear in our suits much like Chris and his family did. That's what Anthrocon is all about right there! Amazing job by Tycho to set it all up and get many of Chris's favorite characters to attend in person.
Of course I cannot forget another magical moment, meeting kitwanalion from Switzerland who has been an amazing friend to me since we met online through my YouTube videos a couple years ago. Understandably it was very emotional for him and me as well, knowing that my videos really helped him through a difficult time in his life and that we have quite a bit in common.
After that I didn't even have time to come down from all that emotion and good feels as I grabbed my stuff and ran down to the Art Show in the convention center to set up, I got there at 8:15 and they only gave me 30 minutes to set up before they were to close for the evening. I have 2 oversize pieces this year (a canvas and a large-frame poster print) and really struggled to get it on my 2 panels but somehow pulled it off.
I didn't do particularly well last year in the art show, so if I don't improve this year it will probably be my last time. I did pick my very best photography work and added a couple new ones this year (including a Red Panda) so hopefully everything sells!
Finally had some time to relax as all my commitments were done for the day, so Chaos and I decided to get a bite down at the Gyro place across the street which is amazingly good, and making it even better we ran into Tycho out of suit and we enjoyed the meal with him and a couple of his friends. A lot of those chance happenings at a large con like AC really help complete the experience, be it luck or happenstance.
I TOTALLY ALMOST FURGOT about the all-staff meeting but made it to the Pennsylvania room just in time... right when I walked in Kage yelled SHUT UP!!!! through the microphone and it startled me lol. Not much new info this year, we did get to meet one of the Guests of Honor, Tracy Butler (Lackadaisy Cats artist)
The rest of the night was spend in the lobby of the Westin, one of the best places for fursuiting action, and just getting my fill of photos and video of some of the many amazingly beautiful wearable works of art!
There is just such a happy vibe around Pittsburgh around this time, it's unlike any other con I've ever experienced. In the airport people were asking about the convention, I saw more than a few non-furry families wandering in and out of the Westin just to take photos with the fursuiters, it's really incredible and a testament to what can happen when a convention goes to great lengths to build a relationship with a city, the city loves you right back.
Also I ran into quite a few people today who took the time to thank me for inspiring them through my videos, it really means a lot to me to hear that I can make a positive difference in someone's life so thank you!
Gonna get some sleep for a very full day tomorrow, including much fursuiting!
Kijani's Memorable Moment of the Day (besides what is mentioned above): As I was walking back from the art show to the Westin, there was a young girl, maybe 5 years old, wearing a tail and ears, just having a blast with the fursuiters that were passing by. She seemed so happy, and as I walked by another fursuiter gave her a high-five and she said in the cheeriest voice, "I'M A FURRY TOOOO!" It was so adorable
Got in super late last night and didn't get to bed until close to 3:30am local time, but got a decent night's sleep at
harleybadger's house and ended up hitting the road in the early afternoon with our other con roomies spatsbear phillyphox and chaosreign.First stop was what has become a tradition of mine the last few years at Anthrocon, a stop at Primanti Bros., a local Pittsburgh icon. Once again I got an epic sandwich that was bigger than my face (and taller than it was wide!), a welcome feast after going more than 20 hours since my last meal.
After that we got into downtown around 4:30pm, and every year it really hits me that I'm here when we cross the bridge and pull up to the Convention Center and start seeing all the fursuiters, after 7 years coming here it still send chills down my spine. There was NO line at the check-in counter and I was able to get our room keys in less than 2 minutes. (on the 5th floor - lowest accessible... JACKPOT!) It is so so so nice to be on staff, and to me one of the best perks, and there are a LOT of them, is to have a room guaranteed on the 5th or 6th floor of the Westin. I never have to take an elevator up (out of suit) the entire con, being just a few flights of stairs away.
Went to Con Ops to pick up my staff packet and badge, another relatively painless experience as was the nonexistent pre-reg line (the at-con reg line, on the other hand, looked extremely painful as many attendees were reporting 3-4 hour waits or more... pre-reg people!) and went back to the room to suit up for a VERY special event organized by
tychoaussie, a private fursuit meet-and-greet for the family of a special-needs teenager named Chris, who is deaf and has cerebral palsy. One of his biggest life wishes was to attend Anthrocon, and we gave him the biggest welcome possible as nearly 20 fursuiters came to the room to get photos and interact with him. It was one of the most heartwarming experiences to bring that much joy to someone who really deserved it, and I know many of us shed a tear in our suits much like Chris and his family did. That's what Anthrocon is all about right there! Amazing job by Tycho to set it all up and get many of Chris's favorite characters to attend in person.
Of course I cannot forget another magical moment, meeting
kitwanalion from Switzerland who has been an amazing friend to me since we met online through my YouTube videos a couple years ago. Understandably it was very emotional for him and me as well, knowing that my videos really helped him through a difficult time in his life and that we have quite a bit in common.After that I didn't even have time to come down from all that emotion and good feels as I grabbed my stuff and ran down to the Art Show in the convention center to set up, I got there at 8:15 and they only gave me 30 minutes to set up before they were to close for the evening. I have 2 oversize pieces this year (a canvas and a large-frame poster print) and really struggled to get it on my 2 panels but somehow pulled it off.
I didn't do particularly well last year in the art show, so if I don't improve this year it will probably be my last time. I did pick my very best photography work and added a couple new ones this year (including a Red Panda) so hopefully everything sells!
Finally had some time to relax as all my commitments were done for the day, so Chaos and I decided to get a bite down at the Gyro place across the street which is amazingly good, and making it even better we ran into Tycho out of suit and we enjoyed the meal with him and a couple of his friends. A lot of those chance happenings at a large con like AC really help complete the experience, be it luck or happenstance.
I TOTALLY ALMOST FURGOT about the all-staff meeting but made it to the Pennsylvania room just in time... right when I walked in Kage yelled SHUT UP!!!! through the microphone and it startled me lol. Not much new info this year, we did get to meet one of the Guests of Honor, Tracy Butler (Lackadaisy Cats artist)
The rest of the night was spend in the lobby of the Westin, one of the best places for fursuiting action, and just getting my fill of photos and video of some of the many amazingly beautiful wearable works of art!
There is just such a happy vibe around Pittsburgh around this time, it's unlike any other con I've ever experienced. In the airport people were asking about the convention, I saw more than a few non-furry families wandering in and out of the Westin just to take photos with the fursuiters, it's really incredible and a testament to what can happen when a convention goes to great lengths to build a relationship with a city, the city loves you right back.
Also I ran into quite a few people today who took the time to thank me for inspiring them through my videos, it really means a lot to me to hear that I can make a positive difference in someone's life so thank you!
Gonna get some sleep for a very full day tomorrow, including much fursuiting!
Kijani's Memorable Moment of the Day (besides what is mentioned above): As I was walking back from the art show to the Westin, there was a young girl, maybe 5 years old, wearing a tail and ears, just having a blast with the fursuiters that were passing by. She seemed so happy, and as I walked by another fursuiter gave her a high-five and she said in the cheeriest voice, "I'M A FURRY TOOOO!" It was so adorable
Anthrocon 2016 Meme - Lion Edition
General | Posted 9 years agoAC 2016 Meme - yoinked from 
anyare
Where are you staying?
The Westin!
What day are you getting there?
Getting into town very late Wednesday, getting to the con Thursday afternoon
How are you traveling?
Until teleportation is a thing... us West Coasters gotta fly!
Who will you be rooming with?
4 absolutely awesome people chaosreign harleybadger spatsbear phillyphox
How is the best way to get in touch with you?
The best way is definitely tweet at me @kijani_lion, I am also on Telegram and if I know you decently well I can give you my cell number if you ask!
Are there any panels or events you might be attending/hosting?
A whole bunch! Definitely attending the Q&A w/Joaquin Baldwin, 2's Rant, Furry Feud, Masquerade, Fursuit Team Games and the Fursuit Dance Finals.
Also for the first time I will be hosting a panel at Anthrocon, "Fursuiting Beyond the Con" on Saturday morning at 9am. I've hosted it many times at Rainfurrest and also Biggest Little Fur Con and am excited about finally bringing it to AC for those that are interested in bringing the magic and fun of fursuiting out into public.
What do you look like?
Azn w/glasses and spiky hair, probably carrying a camera and wearing a lion-related shirt
How tall are you?
6 feet exactly
Will you be suiting?
As much as I can, AC always packs a full schedule for me!
Do you do free art?
If you really, really want a stick figure...
Do you do trades?
Not planning to bring any baseball or pokemon cards. My lasagna wrap is also off the trading block. Mine!
What is your gender?
Oh crap I forgot let me check... Yep. Definitely male.
Can I talk to you?
Yes pleeeeease! I love meeting new people and saying hi to folks I hardly ever get to see. Also if my fursuiting videos have positively influenced you in any way, shape or form I love to hear that too!
Can I touch you?
Hugs are great, just don't surprise glomp me XD
How can I find you?
Look for me in suit, or see me at the above-mentioned events. I'll also be at the Staff Dinner if you're staff!
Can I buy you drinks?
Sure, as long as I can buy you one in return!
Can I give you stuff?
I will gladly accept any or all gifts that you are so kind to bestow upon me.
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs are great, fursuit snuggles I do enjoy in non-public areas, but I'd have to know you well.
Are you nice?
I consider myself extremely friendly, easygoing and sincere.
Will you be going to parties?
I will consider if I get invited to any!
If I see you, how should I get your attention?
If I'm out of suit, feel free to politely come up and introduce yourself! If I'm in suit, yelling "KIJANI!" while waving your arms wildly gesticulating and running in my general direction will greatly increase your chances that you can get my attention.
Can I come with you for food/fun/etc?
Most likely yes, just please ask and don't be creepy stalker person. Most of my dinner plans will be reservation-based so additional parties must arrange in advance.
Can I take your picture?
In suit, of course! Out of suit, umm... okay? (this has happened before!)
Do you do commissions?
Again, if you really really want a stick figure...
What's your goal(s) for the con this year?
Same as always, see some friends that I only get to see once or twice a year, capture lots of fun fursuiting and furry memories, bring some smiles to the Pittsburgh locals and con attendees through fursuit magic, and hopefully do a good job presenting my panel to what I'm sure will be its biggest audience.
anyareWhere are you staying?
The Westin!
What day are you getting there?
Getting into town very late Wednesday, getting to the con Thursday afternoon
How are you traveling?
Until teleportation is a thing... us West Coasters gotta fly!
Who will you be rooming with?
4 absolutely awesome people
chaosreign harleybadger spatsbear phillyphoxHow is the best way to get in touch with you?
The best way is definitely tweet at me @kijani_lion, I am also on Telegram and if I know you decently well I can give you my cell number if you ask!
Are there any panels or events you might be attending/hosting?
A whole bunch! Definitely attending the Q&A w/Joaquin Baldwin, 2's Rant, Furry Feud, Masquerade, Fursuit Team Games and the Fursuit Dance Finals.
Also for the first time I will be hosting a panel at Anthrocon, "Fursuiting Beyond the Con" on Saturday morning at 9am. I've hosted it many times at Rainfurrest and also Biggest Little Fur Con and am excited about finally bringing it to AC for those that are interested in bringing the magic and fun of fursuiting out into public.
What do you look like?
Azn w/glasses and spiky hair, probably carrying a camera and wearing a lion-related shirt
How tall are you?
6 feet exactly
Will you be suiting?
As much as I can, AC always packs a full schedule for me!
Do you do free art?
If you really, really want a stick figure...
Do you do trades?
Not planning to bring any baseball or pokemon cards. My lasagna wrap is also off the trading block. Mine!
What is your gender?
Oh crap I forgot let me check... Yep. Definitely male.
Can I talk to you?
Yes pleeeeease! I love meeting new people and saying hi to folks I hardly ever get to see. Also if my fursuiting videos have positively influenced you in any way, shape or form I love to hear that too!
Can I touch you?
Hugs are great, just don't surprise glomp me XD
How can I find you?
Look for me in suit, or see me at the above-mentioned events. I'll also be at the Staff Dinner if you're staff!
Can I buy you drinks?
Sure, as long as I can buy you one in return!
Can I give you stuff?
I will gladly accept any or all gifts that you are so kind to bestow upon me.
Can I hug or snuggle with you?
Hugs are great, fursuit snuggles I do enjoy in non-public areas, but I'd have to know you well.
Are you nice?
I consider myself extremely friendly, easygoing and sincere.
Will you be going to parties?
I will consider if I get invited to any!
If I see you, how should I get your attention?
If I'm out of suit, feel free to politely come up and introduce yourself! If I'm in suit, yelling "KIJANI!" while waving your arms wildly gesticulating and running in my general direction will greatly increase your chances that you can get my attention.
Can I come with you for food/fun/etc?
Most likely yes, just please ask and don't be creepy stalker person. Most of my dinner plans will be reservation-based so additional parties must arrange in advance.
Can I take your picture?
In suit, of course! Out of suit, umm... okay? (this has happened before!)
Do you do commissions?
Again, if you really really want a stick figure...
What's your goal(s) for the con this year?
Same as always, see some friends that I only get to see once or twice a year, capture lots of fun fursuiting and furry memories, bring some smiles to the Pittsburgh locals and con attendees through fursuit magic, and hopefully do a good job presenting my panel to what I'm sure will be its biggest audience.
