Sakura-Con 2006 - Seattle - March 24-26

[Captain Impulse]

Greetings fellow Pacific Northwesterners (and anyone else attending SakuraCon 2006) -

SakuraCon (http://www.sakuracon.org/index.php) is coming this March 24, 25 and 26 to the Washington State Trade and Convention Center!

This will be my first major convention (I've been to KumoriCon in Portland, OR twice, but it's pretty small I understand), so I'm still not all that savvy with how everything works. I've pre-reg'd and all, but I still haven't figured out my lodging issue.

I have some friends that are going, but I *think* they're already full on their room capacity (I'll be checking with them next week to verify). If so, I figure the best place to look for a place to crash would be with the lovely members of AoD.

If someone has extra "capacity" in their already-reserved room for the Con, I'd be willing to pay that person up to half of the cost of the room for each of the two nights (the nights of the 24th and 25th, as there's no point in staying the night of the 26th), even if I am the 3rd or 4th occupant. I want to make sure I have a "back-up" in case my friends are already full.

I'm friendly, clean, don't smoke or bite, and probably less otaku than most. If this sounds reasonable to anyone, please let me know ASAP. Once I get the skinny from my friends on whether or not I can stay with them, I'll let you know as well. I can PayPal the $$ to you well in advance of the Con if I need such an arrangement.

Other than that, as this is my first real Con, is there anything I should be looking forward to in particular? Anything I should bring (besides clothes and lots of cash)? Any cosplay suggestions (never done cosplay either!)?

Hope to see some of you guys there!

Edit: added time and location information to the subject so people know where you are talking about /images/graemlins/catgirl0.gif

*sprinkles*

The Lady Fae

[ScorpioEyez]

I'm not entirely sure if I'll be going either. I gotta get my finances in order and then get my press badge at which point I can figure out lodging (which isn't difficult). If I do go, I'll be looking for all of you there.

[Justin Richardson]

I already have everything set for me to attend this year - gonna be quite interesting. Like OhayoCon, I do have to do some work *gasp* but I figure that I will have plenty of time to meetup and have dinner with folks if anyone wants to set stuff up.

Captain - if you want, I might be able to room you for those two nights. (Bulldog and I are planning on staying Thurs, Fri, Sat) Just PM me if you are interested.

This is my first SakuraCon but in general I recomend the basics - bring extra clean clothes, shower frequently and find a good group to be around as that will make or break your weekend. Otherwise, I think there is a thread somewhere that has some great hints that might be of use for you.

[Captain Impulse]

Thanks for the info. I may have my situation squared away, but if things change I'll be sure to let you know. Thanks again.

[distantmantra]

I'm considering going for one day, depending on the guests. If they snag some big name creator or seiyu from Japan, then I'll definately be there solely to get autographs. I'd be in heaven if they could swing Shinichiro Watanabe or anyone else involved with the Bebop film. I'd love to get some autographs on my Japanese theatrical poster, but I'd be happy with getting any of my DVDs signed.

Also, having it at the Convention Center really helps, as it's only a five minute drive from my house in Queen Anne.

I probably won't be there very long though, seeing how Belle and Sebastian and The New Pornographers are playing the night of the 25th at the Paramount.

[Pelianth]

I've finally decided to forgo getting a hotel room and just bus back and forth from the Eastside since there's no compelling reason at this point for me to be staying there really late. *shrugs*

[BULLDOG1]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
(Bulldog and I are planning on staying Thurs, Fri, Sat)

[/ QUOTE ]

Am I now?

That's news to me. /images/graemlins/tongue.gif

FTR, my attendance at this convention is not a "sure thing".......at least, not yet. /images/graemlins/wink.gif

Besides, I still haven't decided on whether or not I will attend Katsucon........ /images/graemlins/sweat200.gif

A.J.

Edit: While Katsucon is now officially out.....this one still has a glimmer of hope since I'm not travelling anywhere the week before the con......and the week after, I'm only headed to Boston.

[LimePie]

I'll be there. I'm going to take the train down on Thursday afternoon, since I'd miss opening ceremonies if I came on Friday. Is anyone interesting in gathering for dinner on Thursday night?

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Ojamajo LimePie said:
I'll be there. I'm going to take the train down on Thursday afternoon, since I'd miss opening ceremonies if I came on Friday. Is anyone interesting in gathering for dinner on Thursday night?

[/ QUOTE ]

See...this is the stuff I'm talking about. Opening ceremonies? I had no idea. I'd be interested...I'm still working out lodging plans and such, so if things work out, I'm definitely up for it. Keep me in mind.

[ape2020]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
[ QUOTE ]
Ojamajo LimePie said:
I'll be there. I'm going to take the train down on Thursday afternoon, since I'd miss opening ceremonies if I came on Friday. Is anyone interesting in gathering for dinner on Thursday night?

[/ QUOTE ]

See...this is the stuff I'm talking about. Opening ceremonies? I had no idea. I'd be interested...I'm still working out lodging plans and such, so if things work out, I'm definitely up for it. Keep me in mind.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well I should be there as I'm part of staff. Miniature Gaming Coordinator to be exact. Got my own little room 302 and will be running all types of games.

Oh and the some of the first guess have been announced:

Takahiro Kimura

Takahiro Kimura is a Character Designer and Animation Director of such works as GUNxSWORD, Betterman, Bastard!! (OAV), and others. His Key animation work includes series such as: Golden Boy, Kumagure Orange Road (OAV), and Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade.

Hideyuki Kurata

Hideyuki Kurata is the script writer for GUNxSword and creator of Read or Die and Kamichu!. He has also written screenplays and/or scripts for Magical Girl Pretty Sammy, Battle Athletes and Excel Saga.

Goro Taniguchi

Goro Taniguchi is the Director of GUNxSWORD, Infinite Ryvius, and s-CRY-ed. He has also worked on the production of Yu-Gi-Oh!, Gasaraki, Earthian, and others.

Oh and if you have registered then you should also get a $10 pass for Sega Gameworks across the street. I beleive that is a 30mins of play but then I've seen some of the plans for the Arcade, console, LAN, Classic Arcade, MS own room and others so there should be loads to do.

[Mr. Nail Bat]

[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:
Well I should be there as I'm part of staff. Miniature Gaming Coordinator to be exact.

[/ QUOTE ]

*repeats his joke for the third consecutive year*

[distantmantra]

[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:

Hideyuki Kurata

Hideyuki Kurata is the script writer for GUNxSword and creator of Read or Die and Kamichu!. He has also written screenplays and/or scripts for Magical Girl Pretty Sammy, Battle Athletes and Excel Saga.

Goro Taniguchi

Goro Taniguchi is the Director of GUNxSWORD, Infinite Ryvius, and s-CRY-ed. He has also worked on the production of Yu-Gi-Oh!, Gasaraki, Earthian, and others.

[/ QUOTE ]

Don't forget that Taniguchi directed Planetes.

Well, I'm sold on going to Sakura Con for one day if I can get Read or Die and a volume of Planetes signed!

[ape2020]

[ QUOTE ]
distantmantra said:
[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:

Hideyuki Kurata

Hideyuki Kurata is the script writer for GUNxSword and creator of Read or Die and Kamichu!. He has also written screenplays and/or scripts for Magical Girl Pretty Sammy, Battle Athletes and Excel Saga.

Goro Taniguchi

Goro Taniguchi is the Director of GUNxSWORD, Infinite Ryvius, and s-CRY-ed. He has also worked on the production of Yu-Gi-Oh!, Gasaraki, Earthian, and others.

[/ QUOTE ]

Don't forget that Taniguchi directed Planetes.

Well, I'm sold on going to Sakura Con for one day if I can get Read or Die and a volume of Planetes signed!

[/ QUOTE ]

I forgot which one but one is also involved with all things ROD too.

-chimp1010

[distantmantra]

[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:

I forgot which one but one is also involved with all things ROD too.

-chimp1010

[/ QUOTE ]

You actually said it already:

"Hideyuki Kurata is the script writer for GUNxSword and creator of Read or Die and Kamichu!. He has also written screenplays and/or scripts for Magical Girl Pretty Sammy, Battle Athletes and Excel Saga."

[Totsumanu]

Not sure if I am going make it this year. Last year was a blast! I do have LOADS of business to do at the con. Have to get as much info I can for my convention in Anchorage. (Aurora-Con) Plus I need to get my program guide for the com because we are going to have an ad in it for ours. /images/graemlins/catgirl0.gif

[Mechachrome]

I haven't been to Sakura-con in quite sometime, and I didn't know that this year it would be downtown.

Even though it's the week before Emerald City Con, I might have to show up and check it out.

[Roujin0308]

[ QUOTE ]
Ojamajo LimePie asked:
Is anyone interesting in gathering for dinner on Thursday night?

[/ QUOTE ]

Yes, though someone else will need to make the arrangements as I'm not familiar with the area. /images/graemlins/wink.gif

[Saiya]

Same here. /images/graemlins/happy.gif My mom and I are coming up as early on Thursday as we can, so I should be free by dinnertime.

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
Saikira said:
Same here. /images/graemlins/happy.gif My mom and I are coming up as early on Thursday as we can, so I should be free by dinnertime.

[/ QUOTE ]

I should be in town by early afternoon but as I don't know the area, I don't feel confortable arranging a get together. ^_^;

Speaking of which, I have some space in my room that I would like to pawn off. PM me if anyone is interested.

[Mr. Nail Bat]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
I should be in town by early afternoon but as I don't know the area, I don't feel confortable arranging a get together. ^_^;

[/ QUOTE ]

I guess it's up to the Seattle Genshiken, then.

Thursday evening would be the best time for a get-together, methinks--although I would be commuting in from Olympia, so any earlier than 7:30 and I probably would not make it in time.

[ape2020]

[ QUOTE ]
Geoduck said:
[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
I should be in town by early afternoon but as I don't know the area, I don't feel confortable arranging a get together. ^_^;

[/ QUOTE ]

I guess it's up to the Seattle Genshiken, then.

Thursday evening would be the best time for a get-together, methinks--although I would be commuting in from Olympia, so any earlier than 7:30 and I probably would not make it in time.

[/ QUOTE ]

How about Gameworks at say 8:00pm Thursday? Its kitty corner to the convention center. Everyone that pre register get a free $10 play card. And they have a cafe upstairs.

-chimp1010

[LimePie]

[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:
How about Gameworks at say 8:00pm Thursday? Its kitty corner to the convention center. Everyone that pre register get a free $10 play card. And they have a cafe upstairs.

-chimp1010

[/ QUOTE ]

Sounds good to me. /images/graemlins/catgirl0.gif

[Jumbo]

So are they not planning a Thurs. evening/night pre-reg pass pick up to avoid lines on Friday Morning?

[ape2020]

[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
So are they not planning a Thurs. evening/night pre-reg pass pick up to avoid lines on Friday Morning?

[/ QUOTE ]

Huh? What makes you say that? They are still doing that for the Pre-reg people.

-chimp1010

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
So are they not planning a Thurs. evening/night pre-reg pass pick up to avoid lines on Friday Morning?

[/ QUOTE ]

I should really check on that too. ^_^;

BTW - anyone have any recomendations for places to eat out there?

[Jumbo]

[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:
[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
So are they not planning a Thurs. evening/night pre-reg pass pick up to avoid lines on Friday Morning?

[/ QUOTE ]

Huh? What makes you say that? They are still doing that for the Pre-reg people.

-chimp1010

[/ QUOTE ]

I guess I'm just saying that a Thurs. night meeting would have to depend on the line/times they open pre-reg. I would love to meet everyone but I want to at least get my badge squared away first. ^^; Any idea when they would be opening the pre-reg line that night?

As far as places to eat, here's my 2 cents:

I wouldn't say GameWorks would be a bad place to eat but I wouldn't say the food is anything stellar either. (For the price anyway)

There is the Dragonfish Cafe (http://www.dragonfishcafe.com/sea/index.php) not too far from the convention center (only a block away.) They are pretty upscale but also really good.

Other than that I would say the Cheesecake Factory but I have actually never eaten there before. The other options would be Burger King, Subway or other fast food type places, or at least that is my grasp on what there is for eats right close by. If you start walking further toward the Pike's Place Market there are plenty of other places to go as well. Of course it all depends on the price range too.

[Justin Richardson]

Is there a reasonable chinese place nearby? (or perferably buffet)

[Jumbo]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
Is there a reasonable chinese place nearby? (or perferably buffet)

[/ QUOTE ]

If you're looking for stuff like that I think you'd have to hop a bus down to the International District and hit Uwajimaya. There should be places up on Capital Hill for that kind of stuff as well but not that I can remember right around the convention center.

[ape2020]

[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:
[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
So are they not planning a Thurs. evening/night pre-reg pass pick up to avoid lines on Friday Morning?

[/ QUOTE ]

Huh? What makes you say that? They are still doing that for the Pre-reg people.

-chimp1010

[/ QUOTE ]

I guess I'm just saying that a Thurs. night meeting would have to depend on the line/times they open pre-reg. I would love to meet everyone but I want to at least get my badge squared away first. ^^; Any idea when they would be opening the pre-reg line that night?

As far as places to eat, here's my 2 cents:

I wouldn't say GameWorks would be a bad place to eat but I wouldn't say the food is anything stellar either. (For the price anyway)

There is the Dragonfish Cafe (http://www.dragonfishcafe.com/sea/index.php) not too far from the convention center (only a block away.) They are pretty upscale but also really good.

Other than that I would say the Cheesecake Factory but I have actually never eaten there before. The other options would be Burger King, Subway or other fast food type places, or at least that is my grasp on what there is for eats right close by. If you start walking further toward the Pike's Place Market there are plenty of other places to go as well. Of course it all depends on the price range too.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well I know they will have pre reg pick up and while they haven't announced it yet it is usually at about 5-6pm. Even with lines you should be though by 8pm, close to the time they would likely close anyways.

As for restaurants I only recommend Gameworks as it close and people that pre reg will be getting those $10 game cards.

As for the Dragonfish its in the Paramount hotel and can't speak for it except it likely a little more pricey then Gameworks. The Cheesecake Factory is very much an expensive place as I've seen their menu list in the window.

There is also Azura Bistro (http://www.azurabistro.com/index.htm) near by at 1216 Pine St. Between Minor and Melrose avenues. There might even be another spot close by with chinese food but I need to swing by down there to make sure.

Anyways I would rather stay within two or three blocks of the WSTCC. As I personally have a ton to stuff to do as staff. Yes I know downtown is easy to get around but still I would rather not stray to far.

-chimp1010

[Pelianth]

Let me work the net a bit when I get home (particularly the newspaper reviews), and I'll post up a list of suggestions. Anyone have any preferences?

I should note that Gameworks, Dragonfish (since it's the restraunt of one of the con's hotels), and to a lesser extent the international district are liable to be crawling with congoers from Thurs. night onwards, so we might be better off staying away from those.

I'd bet alot of folk arriving on Thurs. will hit up Gameworks that night so they can use their card before the con gets in gear.

[BULLDOG1]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Saikira said:
Same here. /images/graemlins/happy.gif My mom and I are coming up as early on Thursday as we can, so I should be free by dinnertime.

[/ QUOTE ]

I should be in town by early afternoon but as I don't know the area, I don't feel confortable arranging a get together. ^_^;

Speaking of which, I have some space in my room that I would like to pawn off. PM me if anyone is interested.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well....it's now just about a sure thing that I will be attending, so..... /images/graemlins/sdsmiley.gif

I guess you were able to predict the future after all. /images/graemlins/tongue.gif

I'll be arriving late Thursday evening (8:25Pm or so).....too late for any badge pickup...

Now, if only I can find a way to get out of a weird connection in Washington DC on my way back to NYC........switching from Dulles to Washington National at some point between 6:50am-9:00am on a Monday morning is not something I'm looking foreward to...... /images/graemlins/relief.gif

A.J.

[ape2020]

Okay I took a little detour downtown around the convention center and found some more places to hook up.

Here is a asian/chinese spot about two blocks away across from the GAP and Fox Sport Bar & Grill. Just keep clicking on the menu to see each page. Also note they deliver.

New Territory (http://www.newterritoryseattle.com/)

Okay this next place is very upscale and right across the street from the convention center. Might have to reserve this one but I thought I list it anyhoo.

Bambuza Vietnamese Bistro (http://www.bambuza.com/about.html)
Bamboza Reviews (http://seattle.citysearch.com/review/36406232)

Now for something a little non asian but could be fun. Its on the same block as the cinemas and Gameworks.

Fox Sports Grill (http://www.foxsportsgrill.com/seattle/menu.aspx)

Well thats all for now.

-chimp1010

[Mr. Nail Bat]

Jennifer Sekiguchi is confirmed as a guest!

Yay!

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Ojamajo LimePie said:
Is anyone interesting in gathering for dinner on Thursday night?

[/ QUOTE ]

Now that I've got my lodgings squared away, this sounds like it could be a lot of fun. Any other takers? Any "finalized" plans in the works? I'm a bit of a Seattle neophyte, so I'm not the best person to look to for ideas on this matter.

Sounds like Gameworks/Dragonfish are good ideas, but if something less otaku appeals to everyone, that's just as good. I'd be more interested in meeting the people from AoD as opposed to the event itself.

[gogeta999]

Are there going to be any Reps from Bandai, ADV, Ect.

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
Are there going to be any Reps from Bandai, ADV, Ect.

[/ QUOTE ]

Not as far as I know for the Thursday night activities.

[Mr. Nail Bat]

And now Liam O'Brien is confirmed as a guest as well. Cool beans!

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
Are there going to be any Reps from Bandai, ADV, Ect.

[/ QUOTE ]

Not as far as I know for the Thursday night activities.

[/ QUOTE ]

I hope Viz makes a showing like they did at KumoriCon. I have some questions for them...

[Arcturus]

[ QUOTE ]
Geoduck said:
And now Liam O'Brien is confirmed as a guest as well. Cool beans!

[/ QUOTE ]

Indeed, this SakuraCon will be awesome.

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
Are there going to be any Reps from Bandai, ADV, Ect.

[/ QUOTE ]

Not as far as I know for the Thursday night activities.

[/ QUOTE ]

I hope Viz makes a showing like they did at KumoriCon. I have some questions for them...

[/ QUOTE ]

If we are talking the actual convention, I believe FUNimation and possibly ADV will have a presence. I thought we were talking about the Thursday evening activities.

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
Are there going to be any Reps from Bandai, ADV, Ect.

[/ QUOTE ]

Not as far as I know for the Thursday night activities.

[/ QUOTE ]

I hope Viz makes a showing like they did at KumoriCon. I have some questions for them...

[/ QUOTE ]

If we are talking the actual convention, I believe FUNimation and possibly ADV will have a presence. I thought we were talking about the Thursday evening activities.

[/ QUOTE ]

I think we somehow got sidetracked. Seemed no one was discussing Thursday night stuff. /images/graemlins/depresse.gif

[gogeta999]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
Are there going to be any Reps from Bandai, ADV, Ect.

[/ QUOTE ]

Not as far as I know for the Thursday night activities.

[/ QUOTE ]

I hope Viz makes a showing like they did at KumoriCon. I have some questions for them...

[/ QUOTE ]

If we are talking the actual convention, I believe FUNimation and possibly ADV will have a presence. I thought we were talking about the Thursday evening activities.

[/ QUOTE ]

I think we somehow got sidetracked. Seemed no one was discussing Thursday night stuff. /images/graemlins/depresse.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

I was asking cause Bandai has been very silent since Anime Expo with new lisences.

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
I think we somehow got sidetracked. Seemed no one was discussing Thursday night stuff. /images/graemlins/depresse.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

I was asking cause Bandai has been very silent since Anime Expo with new lisences.

[/ QUOTE ]

Seems like they've been going into stealth mode on their licensing announcements. Galaxy Angel A sneaked up on us, but made me very happy nonetheless. Actually, the entire industry seems to be keeping the lid on licenses longer than normal. I have a hard time believing that ADV has so few series licensed for 2006; with over $50 million sitting in their accounts saving up for a live-action Eva movie, I know they can afford more titles than that.

[gogeta999]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
I think we somehow got sidetracked. Seemed no one was discussing Thursday night stuff. /images/graemlins/depresse.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

I was asking cause Bandai has been very silent since Anime Expo with new lisences.

[/ QUOTE ]

Seems like they've been going into stealth mode on their licensing announcements. Galaxy Angel A sneaked up on us, but made me very happy nonetheless. Actually, the entire industry seems to be keeping the lid on licenses longer than normal. I have a hard time believing that ADV has so few series licensed for 2006; with over $50 million sitting in their accounts saving up for a live-action Eva movie, I know they can afford more titles than that.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well I think this will be the year that ADV will really start throwing us some curve ball lisence just like konomini . Funimation even took a big risk by lisencing the Fullmetal Alchemist movie just after it's DVD release in Japan. I'm not a fan of the new stuff that Geneon is lisencing but Bandai still has at least one series that I would love for them to lisence My ZHime.

[Roujin0308]

[ QUOTE ]
previously, Jumbo asked:
I would love to meet everyone but I want to at least get my badge squared away first. ^^; Any idea when they would be opening the pre-reg line that night?

[/ QUOTE ]

Just an update for those who haven't checked the Sakura Con forums: if you've pre-reg'd, you can pick up your badge and other materials Thursday evening from 4-10pm on the 4th floor in the "South Lobby" area of the convention center.

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Dave Stroud said:
[ QUOTE ]
previously, Jumbo asked:
I would love to meet everyone but I want to at least get my badge squared away first. ^^; Any idea when they would be opening the pre-reg line that night?

[/ QUOTE ]

Just an update for those who haven't checked the Sakura Con forums: if you've pre-reg'd, you can pick up your badge and other materials Thursday evening from 4-10pm on the 4th floor in the "South Lobby" area of the convention center.

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks for the update. If there are any changes to this, please be sure to keep us informed.

[lyndaf]

Ohhh, that's why there was all the talk of getting together Thursday night! I kept thinking 'but isn't the con Fri-Sun?'

I guess that means I have to be there Thursday night.
L

[Captain Impulse]

Yeah, I ended up extending my hotel reservation to include Thursday night as well, to pick up my badge and hopefully take part in whatever happens to be going on that night.

[Jumbo]

Thanks for the pre-reg info. Nice to hear they are starting around 4:00. This means that the evening is pretty much open if you get down there by then.

I'm really ok with meeting/eating anywhere so I guess we'd just have to try nailing down a place and time then. After reg. my evening is pretty open so whatever works best for others on tighter schedules will more than likely work for me too.

[Captain Impulse]

No schedule for me, but I will be in the company of three women who may end up changing my plans for me. /images/graemlins/stunned0.gif Good thing I have the keys.

[Roujin0308]

From Sakura Con homepage:

[ QUOTE ]
Liam O'Brien gives his sincere apologies that he needs to cancel his appearance at Sakura-Con, as he was offered a theatrical role in Los Angeles on short notice. "So I have to bow out, and I'm SO sorry. I was really looking forward to coming."

[/ QUOTE ]

[Mr. Nail Bat]

And now, Jessica Boone (and dlw) are confirmed as guests.

Yay!

[bci110]

[ QUOTE ]
Geoduck said:
And now, Jessica Boone (and dlw) are confirmed as guests.

Yay!

[/ QUOTE ]

Well, that's certainly good news! /images/graemlins/catgirl0.gif From what Jessica told us in her fan site, it didn't look like that she was going to be able to attend Sakura-Con this year, but I'm glad everything worked out from both ends. I'm pretty sure she'll have a wonderful time up in Seattle. It's just unfortunate that I won't be able to go to Seattle to meet her (too far and work constraints), but I'm hoping that Boonie will be at this year's Otakon in Baltinmore. (Or if I'm lucky, maybe this year's ColossalCon in Cleveland.)

[populuxe]

[ QUOTE ]
Geoduck said:
And now, Jessica Boone (and dlw) are confirmed as guests.

Yay!

[/ QUOTE ]

So we lose Liam but gain Jessica. No offense, Liam, but I think it's a good trade.

[populuxe]

[ QUOTE ]
Dave Stroud said:
From Sakura Con homepage:

[ QUOTE ]
Liam O'Brien gives his sincere apologies that he needs to cancel his appearance at Sakura-Con, as he was offered a theatrical role in Los Angeles on short notice. "So I have to bow out, and I'm SO sorry. I was really looking forward to coming."

[/ QUOTE ]

[/ QUOTE ]

It's a bummer, but hey, the guy's an actor. He's got to take the roles when they're offered.

[Roujin0308]

A schedule of the main events is now available here (http://www.sakuracon.org/index.php?s=schedule&p=schedule/index.php); that page also has a link to a pdf file of the programming (video, gaming, art, autographs, etc) schedule.

[Captain Impulse]

Talk about a security crackdown; I can't bring my Walther P38 airsoft pistol for my Lupin costume. <sighs> I guess the master thief will have to go unarmed for this heist.

I'm glad my costume qualifies as "formal attire" for the masquerade ball on Friday, though I may have to splurge and buy myself a nice suit anyway...I've been meaning to do that for a while.

So, time is starting to run out. For those who are interested in meeting up Thursday night, has there been any kind of consensus yet?

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
So, time is starting to run out. For those who are interested in meeting up Thursday night, has there been any kind of consensus yet?

[/ QUOTE ]

I don't belive there has in which to me is a shame. For me however, I think if we met at one central location NEAR the PreReg location, it would make it a hell of alot easier than near another place all together as I'm sure alot of us do not know that area that well.

From looking at the Thursday line of hell schedule (er...PreReg line) the line will start at 4 and run until 10. It might be smart to plan for a 4 or 5 meetup before the badges or a later one around 8 or so after we have the badges to play things safe. (I like the 4-5 option better myself as dinner can come into play so much easier)

Bleh. Can a local do the organizing work so my head won't have to asplode?

[Pelianth]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
From looking at the Thursday line of hell schedule (er...PreReg line) the line will start at 4 and run until 10. It might be smart to plan for a 4 or 5 meetup before the badges or a later one around 8 or so after we have the badges to play things safe. (I like the 4-5 option better myself as dinner can come into play so much easier)

[/ QUOTE ]
Please do note that local people (including myself) will probably be working that day and won't get off until 4-5. You'll have figure in transit time on top of that. Into the city. At rush hour.

[Saiya]

I'm not sure exactly what time I'll be getting there (probably mid-afternoonish), but I'd prefer to get my badge first, so later would work better for me, too.

[Captain Impulse]

Yeah I probably won't be arriving in Seattle until 5pm at the earliest...it's about a 2 1/2 hour drive from where I live, and I can't leave until at least 2pm because one of my party has to work. Perhaps a later evening shindig would be better for all (somewhere between 8-10pm-ish). I've heard mention of the Dragonfish Cafe (that's inside Gameworks, right?)...perhaps something like that would be easiest, since it's close in proximity to the Con.

[Roujin0308]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse inquired:
I've heard mention of the Dragonfish Cafe (that's inside Gameworks, right?)...

[/ QUOTE ]

No, the Dragonfish Restaurant is in the Paramount Hotel (one of the con hotels).; someone said that Gameworks has some sort of cafe/grill inside of it.

Here's an area guide (http://www.sakuracon.org/location/areaguide/) (map) put together by a con staffer; click on the knife & fork icon to show restaurants.

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Dave Stroud said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse inquired:
I've heard mention of the Dragonfish Cafe (that's inside Gameworks, right?)...

[/ QUOTE ]

No, the Dragonfish Restaurant is in the Paramount Hotel (one of the con hotels).; someone said that Gameworks has some sort of cafe/grill inside of it.

Here's an area guide (http://www.sakuracon.org/location/areaguide/) (map) put together by a con staffer; click on the knife & fork icon to show restaurants.

[/ QUOTE ]

Dude...Benihana (R21), right between the Hilton and the Crowne Plaza. Anything else would be just...wrong. /images/graemlins/wink.gif That's my suggestion anyway.

I'm flexible though, so if anyone else has some suggestions, let's hear 'em. It would also be nice to have a sort of "roll call" so we know who is planning on showing up Thursday night if something comes together.

[ape2020]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
[ QUOTE ]
Dave Stroud said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse inquired:
I've heard mention of the Dragonfish Cafe (that's inside Gameworks, right?)...

[/ QUOTE ]

No, the Dragonfish Restaurant is in the Paramount Hotel (one of the con hotels).; someone said that Gameworks has some sort of cafe/grill inside of it.

Here's an area guide (http://www.sakuracon.org/location/areaguide/) (map) put together by a con staffer; click on the knife & fork icon to show restaurants.

[/ QUOTE ]

Dude...Benihana (R21), right between the Hilton and the Crowne Plaza. Anything else would be just...wrong. /images/graemlins/wink.gif That's my suggestion anyway.

I'm flexible though, so if anyone else has some suggestions, let's hear 'em. It would also be nice to have a sort of "roll call" so we know who is planning on showing up Thursday night if something comes together.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well I think a place a little cheaper is a asian/chinese spot about two blocks away. Its across from the GAP and Fox Sport Bar & Grill. Just keep clicking on the menu to see each page. Also note they deliver.

New Territory (http://www.newterritoryseattle.com/)

-chimp1010

[Jumbo]

[ QUOTE ]
Pelianth said:
Please do note that local people (including myself) will probably be working that day and won't get off until 4-5. You'll have figure in transit time on top of that. Into the city. At rush hour.

[/ QUOTE ]

I feel for you, I really do. (Has 5 years experience of travelling I-5 south @ 4:30 to get to work downtown in the evenings.) I'm so glad I managed to get that day off and my hotel allows check in early in the afternoon.

I'm thinking it might be best to plan something for later myself too. I'm not sure how crazy the line for pre-reg is going to be but I'm expecting to wait for up to an hour to get my badge @ 4:00. I'm not sure how the line will be later in the night but I heard horror stories from last year that the line died down and they ended up closing early, leaving some friends out of luck when they came back from dinner...

The problem with meeting Thurday is everyone coming in at different times and then having to deal with the lines for badges. I guess it is just a matter of trying to find a time that works best for all. which is starting to sound more like 8-ish or so to me anyway. Maybe with the schedule posted there are times during the con that might work better?

Really, I'm up for anything I'm just indecisive and need someone to just say: "Meet here, this time." and I'll show up. ^^;

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:

I'm flexible though, so if anyone else has some suggestions, let's hear 'em. It would also be nice to have a sort of "roll call" so we know who is planning on showing up Thursday night if something comes together.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well I think a place a little cheaper is a asian/chinese spot about two blocks away. Its across from the GAP and Fox Sport Bar & Grill. Just keep clicking on the menu to see each page. Also note they deliver.

New Territory (http://www.newterritoryseattle.com/)

-chimp1010

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah you're probably right about cost; most of the Con attendees are probably going to be pinching their pennies a bit. My "group" seems to be of the consensus that they want to spend their Gameworks credit that night before the Con, so maybe the restaurant thing inside Gameworks is a better plan. Not exactly "high class", but rather fitting for us otaku. /images/graemlins/wink.gif

I got it: I'll post a list of the restaurants that sound reasonable, and those who are actually paying attention to this post can reply with their suggestions (in order of preference), and we can just choose whichever comes up on the most people's lists. How does that sound?

1) Dragonfish Asian Cafe
2) Gameworks Grill
3) Benihana
4) Fox Sports Grill
5) Cheesecake Factory
6) Pike Street Cafe
7) Other (Please Specify)

The area guide again (http://www.sakuracon.org/location/areaguide/) for reference.

Please only vote if you are planning on attending, whatever time we decide on. It sounds like later in the evening is the best choice, so if we nail down a place we can decide amongst those who voted which time works out best for us all.

[Saiya]

Hmm....I don't really care. /images/graemlins/sweat000.gif I suppose I'd have a tiny preference for one of the asian places, but I'm mostly interested in meeting everyone - the place itself doesn't matter to me that much. /images/graemlins/happy.gif

[ape2020]

Well for me the prices and location have me going with the Asian/Chinese place. Gameworks is next but I predict its going to be a mob with other con-goers wanting to do the same thing. Fox Sports Grill might not be so bad but still a little pricey except maybe at happy hour. Dragonfish is in my hotel so I guess that wouldn't be a problem except price again.

1) New Territory
2) Gameworks Grill
3) Fox Sports Grill
4) Dragonfish Asian Cafe

Best place to meet up I would guess would be the first floor across from Kinkos or just inside where the Subway is. At least for me I should be done around 7pm setting up so say 8pm could work.

-chimp1010

[lyndaf]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
Please only vote if you are planning on attending, whatever time we decide on. It sounds like later in the evening is the best choice, so if we nail down a place we can decide amongst those who voted which time works out best for us all.

[/ QUOTE ]

I need to find out if I can pick up tickets for myself and my party or if I can only pick up for myself before I can commit. If I can pick up for my kids, I can make anything from 5 pm onwards (helps to work downtown /images/graemlins/sdsmiley.gif ). If the kids have to be present to pick up their own badges, I have to work my way to the eastside, pick up the kids, bring them back into town, get in line ... then I will probably pass on getting together. By the time I get all that one, it'll be late and Friday is still a school day, after all.

Lynda

[Captain Impulse]

[ QUOTE ]
niche_manga_reader said:
[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
Please only vote if you are planning on attending, whatever time we decide on. It sounds like later in the evening is the best choice, so if we nail down a place we can decide amongst those who voted which time works out best for us all.

[/ QUOTE ]

I need to find out if I can pick up tickets for myself and my party or if I can only pick up for myself before I can commit. If I can pick up for my kids, I can make anything from 5 pm onwards (helps to work downtown /images/graemlins/sdsmiley.gif ). If the kids have to be present to pick up their own badges, I have to work my way to the eastside, pick up the kids, bring them back into town, get in line ... then I will probably pass on getting together. By the time I get all that one, it'll be late and Friday is still a school day, after all.

Lynda

[/ QUOTE ]

Might want to check the SakuraCon forums and ask one of the mods if you can pick up the kids' badges (I believe you can, since they are probably minors, right?). They usually respond in less than 12 hours, depending on wha time your post is.

[lyndaf]

[ QUOTE ]
Captain Impulse said:
I got it: I'll post a list of the restaurants that sound reasonable, and those who are actually paying attention to this post can reply with their suggestions (in order of preference), and we can just choose whichever comes up on the most people's lists. How does that sound?


[/ QUOTE ]

I plan to attend. My preferences in order are

Dragonfish Asian Cafe
Pike Street Cafe
Gameworks Grill

Lynda

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
Chimp1010 said:
Well I think a place a little cheaper is a asian/chinese spot about two blocks away. Its across from the GAP and Fox Sport Bar & Grill. Just keep clicking on the menu to see each page. Also note they deliver.

New Territory (http://www.newterritoryseattle.com/)

-chimp1010

[/ QUOTE ]

That place really sounds good. =) Prices are pretty reasonable - just remember to bring out our 10% off coupons. /images/graemlins/sdsmiley.gif

Other than that place I would like:

2) Benihana
3) Cheesecake Factory
4) Pike Street Cafe

My only strike with the Dragonfish is that from its website description - it sounds too family style serving sizes for me. (see my Expo rants in the other thread)

"Try lots of things and pass them around the table. Small plates are designed for tastes for four or appetizers for two. Platters and bowls work as starters for four or substantial bites for two."

[Sango]

Cheesecake Factory all the way!! I often eat at their Bellevue branch since I live in Bellevue. Got to love their burgers and calamari as well! yum!!

[LimePie]

Is everyone planning on going to the AMV contest? Two of my AMVs made it into the finals, and I want you guys to see them. /images/graemlins/catgirl0.gif

Due to family issues, I might not be able to attend the whole weekend, but I'll definitely be there on Friday for the AMV contest.

[Captain Impulse]

I should be there, unless other events get in the way. I have been saddled with a Press Pass for the weekend, so I may have to duck out at times for photo op's with guests and the like. I'm not sure if this is a good thing or a burden yet. /images/graemlins/wink.gif

Not really seeing a common thread amongst favorite restaurants yet though...hmmm....

[Justin Richardson]

*steps up on soap box*

Seems that if someone does not do this, this event will not go on. I talleyed up the votes and it seemed that the top 3 choices were GameWorks, Dragonfish and Cheesecake Factory with more people aiming for Dragonfish in their discussions.

It also seemed that most people wanted dinner later in the night so they can get their badges and whatnot. Granted, I will probably eat something light earlier in the day I figured 9pm will give everyone enough time to get in town and get to the location.

If you have any extreme issues with this accomodations, LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD! I am only human and tried to make everyone happy with this time and place. I would also like to know how many people are coming so I can make a reservation possibly.

I will see everyone there!

-Justin

[ape2020]

Well on the Sakura forums they seem to be voting for the cheesecake factory and there looks to be a lot of them. So I guess I will swing my vote to the Dragonfish since I think I can add to my hotel check.

-Chimp1010

[Pelianth]

Okay, I'm out then. I'm bussing back and forth from the Eastside which would mean waiting out on the street in downtown Seattle late at night by myself which = not good.

[Saiya]

Hmm....starting at 9 is a little on the late side for me, but I'll probably be able to make it (having it in the hotel I'm staying at helps.... /images/graemlins/happy.gif ). I might not be staying long, though.

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
Saikira said:
Hmm....starting at 9 is a little on the late side for me, but I'll probably be able to make it (having it in the hotel I'm staying at helps.... /images/graemlins/happy.gif ). I might not be staying long, though.

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree its late. Frankly I don't mind - I just want a time set down in advance and no one said any prefered times. (just after work)

Would 7 or 8 work better for everyone?

[Jumbo]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
[ QUOTE ]
Saikira said:
Hmm....starting at 9 is a little on the late side for me, but I'll probably be able to make it (having it in the hotel I'm staying at helps.... /images/graemlins/happy.gif ). I might not be staying long, though.

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree its late. Frankly I don't mind - I just want a time set down in advance and no one said any prefered times. (just after work)

Would 7 or 8 work better for everyone?

[/ QUOTE ]

Times don't matter for me, anytime from 7~9 should be ok. Though if 9 is scaring people off then I think it should be earlier if possible. ^^;

As for eats/meet up places I'm up for New Territory or Dragonfish. I'm bias against Gameworks mainly because if you are trying to meet and talk, the surroundings are a little overwhelming. Even in the grill.

Any idea how many of us there will be?

[Justin Richardson]

See topic. Give me gesstimate of who is coming.

[Saiya]

*nods* Yep, that should work pretty good for me, I think. I just didn't want to be up too late on Thursday because it's probably going to be the only day I have a chance of getting anything like a normal night's sleep. /images/graemlins/sweat000.gif

[Captain Impulse]

Assuming all goes will with picking up my badge in time, I'll be there, possibly with others in tow.

[ QUOTE ]
Mike Dungan said:
[ QUOTE ]
Dave Stroud said:
From Sakura Con homepage:

[ QUOTE ]
Liam O'Brien gives his sincere apologies that he needs to cancel his appearance at Sakura-Con, as he was offered a theatrical role in Los Angeles on short notice. "So I have to bow out, and I'm SO sorry. I was really looking forward to coming."

[/ QUOTE ]

[/ QUOTE ]

It's a bummer, but hey, the guy's an actor. He's got to take the roles when they're offered.

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, I'm bummed too. I was looking forward to hanging out in Seattle.

But it is a good excuse for missing it...

If anyone's interested, I'm performing in Arthur Miller's ALL MY SONS, at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. It's one of LA's schmancier theaters, and I will be sharing the stage with Laurie Metcalf, Len Caiou, and Neil Patric Harris. They'll be breaking down as their lives fall apart- I'm just walking in and saying Hi! It's already going beautifully, and we're only a week in.

If you're curious, go to www.geffenplayhouse.com (http://www.geffenplayhouse.com)


Liam

[Mr. Nail Bat]

[ QUOTE ]
LiamObrien said:
[ QUOTE ]
Mike Dungan said:
[ QUOTE ]
Dave Stroud said:
From Sakura Con homepage:

[ QUOTE ]
Liam O'Brien gives his sincere apologies that he needs to cancel his appearance at Sakura-Con, as he was offered a theatrical role in Los Angeles on short notice. "So I have to bow out, and I'm SO sorry. I was really looking forward to coming."

[/ QUOTE ]

[/ QUOTE ]

It's a bummer, but hey, the guy's an actor. He's got to take the roles when they're offered.

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah, I'm bummed too. I was looking forward to hanging out in Seattle.

But it is a good excuse for missing it...

If anyone's interested, I'm performing in Arthur Miller's ALL MY SONS, at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. It's one of LA's schmancier theaters, and I will be sharing the stage with Laurie Metcalf, Len Caiou, and Neil Patric Harris. They'll be breaking down as their lives fall apart- I'm just walking in and saying Hi! It's already going beautifully, and we're only a week in.

If you're curious, go to www.geffenplayhouse.com (http://www.geffenplayhouse.com)


Liam

[/ QUOTE ]

If I were anywhere near Len Cariou, I would not be able to stop myself from spontaneously breaking out into songs from Sweeney Todd. Congratulations on your role!

[lyndaf]

[ QUOTE ]
Pelianth said:
Okay, I'm out then. I'm bussing back and forth from the Eastside which would mean waiting out on the street in downtown Seattle late at night by myself which = not good.

[/ QUOTE ]

I can give you a ride if you want. 9 pm is later than I prefer, but it also means I can get tickets, go back to the east side, do stuff, and still get back into town for dinner.

I'll be there as 1 head count. We're meeting at the Dragonfish? The reservation is under what Justin's name?

Lynda

[Pelianth]

[ QUOTE ]
niche_manga_reader said:
[ QUOTE ]
Pelianth said:
Okay, I'm out then. I'm bussing back and forth from the Eastside which would mean waiting out on the street in downtown Seattle late at night by myself which = not good.

[/ QUOTE ]

I can give you a ride if you want. 9 pm is later than I prefer, but it also means I can get tickets, go back to the east side, do stuff, and still get back into town for dinner.

I'll be there as 1 head count. We're meeting at the Dragonfish? The reservation is under what Justin's name?

Lynda

[/ QUOTE ]
I don't think I'm gonna make it though. I've been sick for the past couple of days, so going home to rest after work is the better plan I think.

[LimePie]

Is it 7pm or 9pm? I'll just head that way at 7pm to see if anyone's there.

[lyndaf]

LOL! I turned up at 9, probably missed most of you. It was still a fun time.

[BULLDOG1]

Well.......not too much happening at the con on the first day.

Probably the worst thing that developed was that the Funimation and Geneon panels are scheduled for the same time. /images/graemlins/sad.gif

Anyway.....I attended the opening ceremonies..... which was interesting....as in addition to a video clip presentation, they had a kendo demonstration (once they found them /images/graemlins/tongue.gif ) as well as some quite entertaining inprov.

Afterwards.....I quickly found Hobie-wan in the Dealer's room.....working hard as usual. /images/graemlins/wink.gif

However, the best part so far has to be the Guest of Honor dinner/reception at the Hilton.

This was an extrememly neat event to attend.......well worth the "price of admission". /images/graemlins/cool.gif

Good food.....and a chance to be "up close and personal" with some of the guests was a big plus.

This is also where I finally got to meet Geoduck and Arcturus. /images/graemlins/happy.gif

I spent the much of the time during the dinner (as well as after we left the Hilton /images/graemlins/wink.gif ) chatting with Dave Vincent (V/A of Van in GunXSword).

Now...I am definitely looking forward to checking out GunXSword.

All things considered....I'm glad I chose to attend this convention.

More to come tomorrow.....

A.J.

[gogeta999]

[ QUOTE ]
Bulldog said:
Well.......not too much happening at the con on the first day.

Probably the worst thing that developed was that the Funimation and Geneon panels are scheduled for the same time. /images/graemlins/sad.gif

Anyway.....I attended the opening ceremonies..... which was interesting....as in addition to a video clip presentation, they had a kendo demonstration (once they found them /images/graemlins/tongue.gif ) as well as some quite entertaining inprov.

Afterwards.....I quickly found Hobie-wan in the Dealer's room.....working hard as usual. /images/graemlins/wink.gif

However, the best part so far has to be the Guest of Honor dinner/reception at the Hilton.

This was an extrememly neat event to attend.......well worth the "price of admission". /images/graemlins/cool.gif

Good food.....and a chance to be "up close and personal" with some of the guests was a big plus.

This is also where I finally got to meet Geoduck and Arcturus. /images/graemlins/happy.gif

I spent the much of the time during the dinner (as well as after we left the Hilton /images/graemlins/wink.gif ) chatting with Dave Vincent (V/A of Van in GunXSword).

Now...I am definitely looking forward to checking out GunXSword.

All things considered....I'm glad I chose to attend this convention.

More to come tomorrow.....

A.J.

[/ QUOTE ]

So did Bandai attend?

[Mr. Nail Bat]

[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
So did Bandai attend?

[/ QUOTE ]

There are no Bandai reps present.

[LittleGirl]

Any new licenses announcements?

[B-Rad Lascelle]

[ QUOTE ]
LittleGirl said:
Any new licenses announcements?

[/ QUOTE ]
Announcing licenses at cons is so 2003.
Nobody does that stuff any more.
The companies know that people only go to cons to dress up like Naruto in a public place. /images/graemlins/cool.gif

[Mr. Nail Bat]

[ QUOTE ]
LittleGirl said:
Any new licenses announcements?

[/ QUOTE ]

No announcements, but I will note that FUNimation did mention that they will be announcing something this Tuesday. And dlw regretted that he was unable to mention two titles that he had previously thought that he would be allowed to.

[Justin Richardson]

[ QUOTE ]
LittleGirl said:
Any new licenses announcements?

[/ QUOTE ]

Geneon had 2 new title announcements - 1 Live action flick and 1 Streamline rerelease.

Funi announcement later in the week via Press Release. Bleh.

ADV had nothing to note. DLW was shooting some blanks for sure. /images/graemlins/cry00000.gif

More details when I wake up in the morning as I've definately been working my ass off more than DLW at an all girls resort. /images/graemlins/sdsmiley.gif

[Arcturus]

I had a great time meeting everybody. SakuraCon was a lot of fun this year, and it was especially nice to have a new, higher capacity venue that's downtown rather than by the airport.

Geoduck and I recorded a podcast of our impressions of the con, I'll be posting it at Dub Review sometime tomorrow.

[mrgazpacho]

[ QUOTE ]
Justin Richardson said:
been working my ass off more than DLW at an all girls resort. /images/graemlins/sdsmiley.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

LOL that almost happened to me once. Went to Palm Springs in 1997, was in the hotel elevator and a bunch of funky girls piled in. When they got out at their floor, I looked out the door... and saw the "Lesbian Conference" banner /images/graemlins/sweat200.gif

[Jumbo]

First off I would like to apologize to the others that ended up meeting at the dragonfish. By the time I left the forums were still down and I had missed the final decision on where to meet. (I decided that I didn't want to pay 10 bucks a day for Internet at the hotel... No free access anywhere but the public library for me...) I hope those that made it had a good time.

All in all I think the con turned out pretty well this year. I missed last years con but must admit that the Convention Center sure beats the Seatac center they had been using for the past 3 or so years. It was nice to not have to fight to get into the AMV contest and the theater setup was also really nice. The hotels weren't too far away and the dealers room seemed to be plenty big enough. (Not the Comic market industry room but still pretty nice.)

If I could only pick one downfall I would have to go with the scheduling for some of the events/panels. It seemed like things weren't really planned out well enough in advance. The whole Gun Sword premiere should have been before the Q&A session to grab more attention. The Q&A had people but wasn't half as packed as the premiere. It also felt kind of weird having Takanori Hoshino show up to his Q&A panel with the US dub playing instead of his role... (On the flip side of the coin, Dave Vincent <Van in Gun Sword's English Dub> walked into the GxS premiere to chants of "Sub! Sub! Sub!" where they took a vote, subs won but then at the last minute they changed it back due to it being scheduled as a dub showing in the first place.)

I was also pretty disappointed with the treatment of Noburo Ishiguro. maybe it was last minute but he did pull out the US premiere (??? I assume anyway...) of the first episode of Mushi-shi subbed. (I'm pretty sure it was simply for this con/panel much like the subbed FMA they showed at Anime Expo Tokyo 2004) His panel was moved to a different room the morning of the panel. (I hear the move was due to lack of video equipment.) Still it would have been cool if this could have been announced at the opening ceremonies or something. Considering how big a name he is the room seemed pretty empty.

This also goes for having industry panels at the same time as mentioned before. How they expect press people to be at two places at once for stuff like this is kinda beyond me.

But enough ranting from me, in the end I still had a great time, just wish I could have made it to the forum get together, maybe some other time.

[BULLDOG1]

[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
If I could only pick one downfall I would have to go with the scheduling for some of the events/panels.


[/ QUOTE ]

Schedule problems were my biggest beef as well.

First: moving Funi's panel from 8am (granted....that was probably a bit early for some..... /images/graemlins/tongue.gif ) to the same time as Geneon's panel was weird.

Second: ADV's Industry Panel.......I mean....first it's scheduled....then it's not. Heck...if it wasn't for David Williams being at the 2 VA (Jessica and Jennifer) Q/A panels that morning, I probably wouldn't have known that the ADV panel was back on the schedule....let alone at 2PM.

Third: I personally think that instead of printing out a programming schedule booklet covering everything (which turned out to be somewhat outdated as soon as it was received).....they should have simply printed out a schedule page for the "live" programming on the day of the convention in order for it to be as "up to date" as possible.

[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
This also goes for having industry panels at the same time as mentioned before. How they expect press people to be at two places at once for stuff like this is kinda beyond me.

[/ QUOTE ]

Well.....I can understand counter programming being used at some conventions in order to divide "traffic" between 2 events.

However, I don't think it was necessary at Sakuracon.

And FWIW, there are ways around needing to be at two places at once. /images/graemlins/wink.gif

[ QUOTE ]
Jumbo said:
But enough ranting from me, in the end I still had a great time, just wish I could have made it to the forum get together, maybe some other time.

[/ QUOTE ]

Forum get-together?

Was there actually a gathering on Thursday night?

Then again, I only arrived at Sea-Tac after 9:30PM on Thursday due in part to flight delays. /images/graemlins/sad.gif


Anyway..... I found my experience at Sakura con to be quite "interesting". /images/graemlins/sweat200.gif

Personally, I thought the Guest of Honor dinner set the tone for my entire con experience as that kind of reception/dinner was something I would definitely like to attend again.

At the very least, this was a nice excuse to revisit Seattle. /images/graemlins/happy.gif

A.J.

[hobie]

[ QUOTE ]
Geoduck said:
[ QUOTE ]
Gogeta said:
So did Bandai attend?

[/ QUOTE ]

There are no Bandai reps present.

[/ QUOTE ]

They had purchased a table in the dealer's room, but they never showed up. It was close to where I was working.