Let's go to the Expo~ CBD Expo NW!

Hi All! Quite a bit of time has passed and so much has occurred, which caused a slight delay between blogs. However, the show must go on! On that note, let me tell you about a fun expo I attended in the summer, CBD Expo North West! As you might have remembered, last year, I attended the first CBD Expo on the tour in Anaheim, CA. You can refer back to a previous blog about that event. CBD Expo NW was a two-day event that took place in Seattle, WA at Motif Seattle. Unlike when I went to CBD Expo West, I was able to attend both days of CBD Expo NW.

My first day of the event went very well. I checked in and they were able to easily find my name as a press member. I was also greeted by my new point of contact, Kathleen after my previous point of contact Camille moved, and she was so warm and welcoming. It was an amazing experience. It is always great when you are able to work with such kind and genuine people. Kathleen with CMW Media Group was very informative in the months prior to the show and even during the show.

After checking in, I decided that for the first day of the show, I would only interact with half of the vendors so that way I would be able to spend some time getting to know what the various vendors did and learn about their companies. My first encounter was with Keiko, who was based out of Orange County, CA like me! That was a cool coincidence. She teaches CBD wellness classes for seniors in the area, and was planning on doing an island wellness retreat. Afterwards, I continued on and talked with some vendors about bottling and packaging processes for CBD. We discussed how simplicity is popular for some, and this can be seen often in skincare lines such as Drunk Elephant, and many "Clean at Sephora" lines. However, on some occasions, the luxury goods tend to be more alluring when they have a shine to them. So depending on the price point and formulation of the product, the packaging can make a difference in marketability. Also on day one, I got to try out CBD breath mints from a vendor based out of Oakland, CA called Lucent Botanicals. Those were amazing and discrete! The best type of CBD products, in my opinion, are the kind that can do many things at once. The packaging was what drew me to the product, and the fact that the product delivers total transparency so you are aware of what goes into the product instead of being an uninformed consumer. The taste is what made me consider seeking out the product after the show.  I met other really neat vendors that were kind and hospitable as well.  Aside from Lucent Botanicals, I focused on the more marketing and business based vendors for day one.

During day 2, I focused a bit more on vendors that made edibles and topicals. I met a CBD kombucha vendor called Green Buddha Hemp Co. and that has go to be some of the best kombucha I've tasted. I think the smaller brands of kombucha taste less sugary and over processed, and more natural compared to the mainstream brands. There was a water soluble CBD shot vendor called Danodan Hempworks that incorporated the full components of CBD and I liked that because the earthy flavoring was better than I expected it to be. Each shot delivers 6 mg of CBD and can be used in more than just liquids. I also was able to pick up some pet CBD for my dogs and it's done wonders for my senior pitty back in my hometown. Spectrum Confections made some really neat jelly beans as well that have helped me with relaxing during high anxiety moments. Also, the various flavors are pretty fun to guess. They low key remind me of the Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans, just without any scary flavors. ;) While making my rounds, I was able to try a sample of Vital Leaf's CBD chocolate bars. Typically, I am not a fan of chocolate. Shocking, I know. Yet, this chocolate actually tasted quite good to me. It was not sickingly sweet, nor excessively bitter. It was pretty good and is also fair-trade and organic, which makes me feel even better about it. I always like to know about the products I ingest, so transparency is very important for me. I am glad that Vital Leaf is very transparent about where they source their ingredients from.

One thing I really love about CBD Expo Tour is that I have learned about so many different CBD products since attending two of these shows. Since attending the shows, I became a CBD product tester for some time, and also have recommended vendors' products to my friends. The tour for the 2019 year is soon reaching it's end. Since CBD Expo NW, the tour has already visited the mile high city (Denver) with CBD Expo Mountain, and kicked it in the other coast in Florida with CBD Expo East. That leaves only one more stop left for the year, CBD Expo West! I likely won't be able to attend this one, despite it being back in my home state, but I hope you'll make it out there! This year, it'll be in San Diego, CA on December 5th and 6th. If you're interested in getting tickets for CBD Expo West, feel free to register here. Also, just a reminder, CBD Expo Tour is a 21+ event. :)

I hope everyone has a nice final month of 2019! All named vendors are linked within this post, so check them out! :D

Till Next Time!

-Hachi

Hear Ye! Hear Ye! Let me tell you a tale of the Renaissance Pleasure Faire!

Greetings fair knights and ladies! It has been quite a while, hasn't it? First new post of the year too! I'll have to explain my absence for another time and also fill you in on my previous con adventures another time, as well. For today, I'm here to tell ye about my experiences at the Renaissance Pleasure Faire. This particular Renaissance faire is quite possibly unlike any ren faire you have ever been to! Let me stress that there is something here for everyone!

I went on Saturday, April 27th - Renn Con weekend. As I had noticed, each weekend was designated a theme. Since I am both a cosplayer and a cosplayer photographer, I chose Renn Con weekend to attend the faire as press. This weekend was geared towards those who love cosplay and wanted to combine Renaissance styles within known cosplay fandoms. Also, Craft Beer weekend happened at the same time so beer enthusiasts came out to partake in delectible brews and enjoy the events This was also my first time ever attending the Renaissance Pleasure Faire.

The entrance into the event was pretty easy, a quick bag check and a ticket scan. Parking at the dam was only 10$, which is cheaper than pretty much every con I have ever attended. From scanning my ticket and onward, I was immersed within the Renaissance ages. I loved, and let me stress this again, absolutely loved the diversity of this con. I understand for some people, historical accuracy is more important, but for others, diversity can be just as important. Seeing individuals of varying ethnic origins, doing roles that would otherwise not have been assigned to them during this era made me so happy.

The events were pretty fun. The events I watched were dancing, swordplay, comedy, and jousting. Seeing the belly dancers be able to balance bladed weapons on their head and still move made me want to up my belly dancing game. I loved that the swordplay group by the maypole let both men and women fight together, regardless of size. I love swordplay as I was a kendo practitioner, myself for a few years. Jousting was also a good time; I cheered on the blue side. Even though we lost, it was exciting to see the fans taking the action seriously and how big the crowds around the arena got.

There was so much food to choose from as well, which is awesome for the diverse event goer. I opted for Caramel apples, and the workers at the booth cracked me up. I also watched my friend test his strength at a booth, as well, with the worker giving tips and encouragement along the way. If there is anything I can say about the Renaissance Pleasure Faire, they have amazing customer service at every turn. From the moment I got my ticket in the Will Call line to the moment I returned my media badge for the day, just about every worker I encountered was amazing. I only had one questionable experience the whole time with someone taking their character a bit too far in the jousting area causing a moment of discomfort, but everyone else's good energy dispelled that. For the most part, this event brought a very positive experience for me and I am very glad that I was able to attend. I hope to attend the Renaissance Pleasure Faire, next year and bring more of my friends with me.

Here are some photos from the event and when I finish processing other photos, I'll include a slideshow! :) As always, typically, I will post photos from any event I attend prior to writing about it in a blog on my photography Instagram.

Te Fiti by @adinn.cosplays

Daenerys by @kowaikohai

Maleficent and Princess Aurora by @criccicricci & @abracatrena

My event rating: 9.5/10 - would definitely recommend this event to others & want to return again

Pros:

• Diversity
• Themed Weekends
• Enthusiastic Workers
• Variety of Events
• Variety of Food
• Variety of Vendors
• Large event

Cons:

• Parking on grass/dirt
• Needs more Seated Spaces
• Some workers take roles too far - could lead to harassment
• A solution to that is a training weekend for preventative measures

My dear knights and ladies! The Renaissance Pleasure Faire is on it's last two weekends for the 2019 season! So if you can, get out there and go enjoy it! :)

Dr. Facilier - me ( Cosplay/personal - @bosshachi_08/ Photography - @himawarisayscheese)
Taken by @pyrozack & edited by me

Till Next Time!

-Hachi

The Wild, Wild CBD Expo West!

Hi all! I hope everyone has been well! Thanksgiving just happened in these parts! I think Canada celebrates theirs in October. Normally, I would be at a research conference around this time. I was in Vancouver, B.C. last year, if you all remember presenting my Master's Thesis, but this year I had no new research and opted out of attending. While I missed my colleagues dearly out in New Orleans, I am very pleased to tell you all about a fascinating convention I went to back in late September, CBD Expo West.

Being the spoonie that I am, that is, someone that is directly and personally involved with the chronic illness community, I jumped at the chance to be press for this expo. Over the past year or so, I have been trying to learn all there is to learn about the benefits of CBD. Why, you may ask? Well, I am the type of person who has utilized dozens of medications over the years for a multitude of aliments only to be riddled with numerous negative side effects and no relief. As a result, I turned to the magic of CBD. CBD to put it in simple terms does the same high effects that THC has. It's mostly non-psychoactive. I strongly prefer CBD for this reason. CBD is great for anxiety, pain, seizures, and a multitude of other ailments with virtually no negative drawbacks. Many (not all) CBD products will not show up on a drug test either, and you can check with certain manufactures to ensure this is the case. Some products have a 1:1 CBD/THC ratio along with other variations, so keep that in mind as well. There are many great articles out in the medicine world to learn more about CBD and it's uses for pets, adults, and children. :)

CBD Expo West was held at the Anaheim Marriott hotel near Disneyland and was a two day event (September 21st & 22nd, 2018) kicking off the CBD Expo Tour. Unfortunately, due to recently starting a job, I could only attend on the Saturday, but it was an AMAZING day. The Friday beforehand, the expo had a press and industry mixer, which was THC friendly, but I was unable to attend that event. I had never been to an expo of this kind before so I had no idea what to expect. I was greeted by some of the friendliest people I had ever met at any expo or con. I always say, as staff to two major comic book conventions, that what makes or breaks a con at times is how a patron is treated at first entry. First impressions are everything, and the CBD Expo West staff left a great first impression on me. They were unable to find my press registration information on their list, but instead of sending me away, provided me with a same-day registration pass and some useful pamphlets to get me where I was going. I also still had access to the press lounge and was so appreciative for their generosity.

Now, I am not the type to schedule one-on-one interviews with people as I feel they become too formal and less personalized. So I decided to opt out of doing one-on-one interviews and went to various vendors talking to them as if I was just a regular patron rather than a member of the press. When giving informal meet and greets as opposed to a formal interview, I find it as a way I could get a more relaxed feel of how they were as a person and what their company stood for. I met with Dr. Kerklaan Theraputics, Sativa by Design, Relive Everyday, Sagely Naturals, and Topikal Everything Hemp.

Main takeaways from each of these companies:

• Dr. Kerklaan Theraputics - Dr. Kerklaan truly believes in his product and wants his product to work for everyone that uses it. He was a very friendly person, who looked very eager to tell me about why he started his company, and what he hoped that his company could do for the consumer. I really liked that his company also had very focused and specific products for PMS, headache relief, and even sleep therapy. I got some nice creams from them too.

• Sativa by Design - This company was really cool because they will help people create their own products. It's really great for entrepreneurial minded individuals. The people that ran this booth were so friendly and absolutely hilarious and I purchased some CBD tincture for my partner and I from them at a great convention rate that you would rarely find anywhere in California. Their product, Hemp Life Drops work amazingly too!

• Relive Everyday - Probably my favorite booth because I learned so much about this company and what they stand for. The ladies running the booth kindly answered all my questions and even gave me insight of how the life of working the cannabis convention scene can be for CBD vendors. They also gave me the most samples out of everyone. Their pain spray was great, but their gummies and their tinctures were really top notch. I would consider using their company for gummies, if given the chance. The taste is not overwhelming at all and it does work :)

• Sagely Naturals - The rep for this brand had told me that she started out as a customer before becoming a rep and started using the product due to living a high stress lifestyle. Since I work a desk job doing tech based work, she recommended I try out their product called Tranquility to achieve a relaxed mind, while using the Relief & Recovery cream to ease sore muscles from my weight lifting/fitness lifestyle. Those products smelled really good, I must say that for sure. I am really sensitive to smells, and those were very pleasant to the senses.

• Topikal Everything Hemp - The girls running this booth were extremely chill, I mean EXTREMELY chill. They had strawberry lemonade, my favorite kind, and gave me a sample with 5mg of CBD in it, and it was the best. I was actually drawn to this table by their logo rather than the lemonade, to be honest. As a linguist, the way things are written interests me as it looked almost like a different writing system rather than just English. We discussed how the font can really draw in clients and they told me how the artist of it, who also happens to be the owner of the company was very proud of his work.

One of my favorite aspects of this expo was that many of these vendors were local vendors to California, so I could easily venture out and seek out these companies for myself. However, it was really nice getting to know vendors from around the country as well. That is the beauty of expos, meeting people you possibly would not have the opportunities to have met in any other contexts. If given the opportunity, I would love to go back.

Rating: 9.5/10 -
Pros:
I felt relaxed, rejuvenated, entertained, social, and at peace. I don't think it was all the CBD samples talking either. I tried so many samples (probably too many ^_^'), met some cool people, saw some demos, and learned new things about the world of CBD.

Cons:
The only true con was that they didn't have my press registration information on file, but otherwise, everything else was great. I was really glad that they were able to make up for it. Only one vendor rep was slightly standoffish and rude in how she spoke with me, but that might have just been her demeanor in general. I won't hold that against the company. The actions of one do not define the actions of many.

Anyhoo, that's all from me! I delayed this post until I had the time to go through all my samples from the various vendors and I finally got through them all, starting with CBD Living Water's gummy and ending my samples with the hemp infused olive oil by Due Santi that I cooked my baked salmon with. All of the samples were amazing and got me through some rough days the past couple of months. It was much needed and I am very appreciative. If you guys are interested in following the CBD Expo Tour, they have more stops coming through 2019! Their next stop is just around the corner at CBD Expo East in Orlando, Florida at the Hilton Orlando (December 7th & 8th, 2018). I wish I could attend, but alas, living on the West Coast has its drawbacks. I hope to catch them again on this coast!

Let me know in the comments below if you use CBD and how it's helped you :)

Till Next Time!

-Hachi

Happy Anniversary Long Beach Comic Con 2018! - Press Edition

Hi all! Things have been pretty busy since last time I have posted. I got a full time job! So exciting! I'm working with voice recognition software and programming it to understand human speech better! I love being able to utilize my Linguistics degree for what my interests lie in. So, yes posts might come slower than I would like because I also do photography as a side job, but the posts will certainly keep on coming! Anyhoo, that is not the reason for today's blog. Today's blog is all about Long Beach Comic Con! Last month, I had the pleasure of attending LBCC for two days as press. It was also their 10th anniversary, so happy anniversary, or how we con nerds call it - coniversary, LBCC! <3

Overall Con Breakdown:

The convention was not in the usual location facing the Pike Outlets, but on the side facing the fountain. While it was a minor inconvenience as some of the signs were slightly hard to tell where they were pointing to, this location was extremely ideal from an outdoor photography perspective. The bag check for the most part was rather acceptable.

 However, one problem that I can state that I had was borderline sexual harassment during Saturday of the con on the part of the security asking me to lift up my shirt after stating to prior security personnel that I had a corset under my cosplay. Cosplay is not consent, nor will it ever be. We must stand firm and call out all wrongdoers.  All of the other security personnel had accepted my statement about my corset (which is still noticealy visible under my cosplay), had just simply wanded me, and were going to send me on my way. However, this one particular security worker decided he would try and convenience me to lift up my shirt for him when my corset can be see through my shirt. By lift up my shirt, I mean my entire shirt, not just a little bit. To which, I promptly told him off and stated that the lining and busk was visible without the need to remove anything. That was an unfortunate mishap that in no way, shape, or form reflects on the convention or the convention center, but on the person, himself. I should hope, that they are dealt with after I gave my report. Unfortunately, that particular experience had me off to a bad start for the day on Saturday.

I was worried this bad mindset would continue; however, getting to the press check in process was great! The staff member that ran that section was extremely friendly and welcoming. That instantly boosted my mood and every other security team member was amazing and showed great professionalism in their duties. The vendor's hall has something for everyone too. They even incorporated wresting this year as that has garnished more interest at conventions in the recent year or two.  I got to meet and talk with various artists in the artist alley and see how their con experience was going and was even interviewed as well. I attended the Space Expo panel, "So you want to build an R2", which featured a group of panelists discussing how they built their own replicas of the iconic Star Wars character along with other droids.

Photography wise, I shot both indoors where the beautiful lights were and outdoors by the reflective windows near the fountain were. Depending on the aesthetics you're looking for, this convention center in particular is quite possibly the most aesthetically pleasing one to me. At this con, I cosplayed as both Velvet Scarlatina from RWBY and Rouge the Bat from Sonic the Hedgehog. One a faunus photographer another an international jewel thief. A fun fact about me, I connect better with non human characters.

Velvet Scarlatina

Rouge the Bat, photography courtesy of @yorkinabox

As stated many times in the past, I am a cosplaying photographer, so I happen to look at the con from the lens of both an insider and outsider's perspective. From an insider perspective, Long Beach Comic Con is such a welcoming and inviting con, that is why I always enjoy going to this particular con every year. They are a very cosplay friendly convention and do all that they can to ensure that the public remains safe, and that cosplayers are not limited in any way with what they can cosplay within reason. From an outsider's perspective, the con has grown so much over the years I have been attending it. I am so pleased and I can see why so many people are willing to purchase the lifetime pass to the con. I know a few that have it, and none of them regret it at all. The con continues to grow and thrive as a welcoming atmosphere to both new and old attendees. I am looking forward to Long Beach Comic Expo in February. Some of my happiest memories happened at this year's Long Beach Comic Con and I am looking forward to creating more in the years to come.
(all photos below taken by me)

Soldier 76 x Fallout 76 mashup by @alexdrastal

Cinder Fall - RWBY cosplayed by @kajicosplays

Psylocke - X-Men cosplay by @utahimecosplay

8.5/10 (honestly, this is one of my favorite cons, I would probably go to this con and Long Beach Comic Expo for as long as they run)
Pros:

• Friendly Staff 
• Considering that I am a staff member for other unaffiliated cons, we represent the face of the con. So I take professionalism and a good attitude to heart, this can make or break a con for so many people.
• Many things to do
• Interesting Panels
• I attended a panel on how to build your own R2D2, that was extremely cool as my old research lab tried to build a robot before
• One thing I like about the panels at LBCC is that there is honestly something for everyone. Some cons do not get very diverse in their panels, and more of them need to. 

Cons:

• The parking situation was not ideal
• This was a complaint I heard from many that I asked about what was their least favorite part of the con. I think the Pike Outlet parking threw so many people off.
• Location change/ Signage
•  I didn't mind the location change all that much
• However, many people, myself included found the signage explaining where the new location was and how to get to it were completely thrown off by it.

Stay tuned for more posts! I still have to tell y'all about NerdbotCon, CBD Expo, and LA Comic Con!

Till Next Time!

-Hachi

Ready or not! It's Almost Time for Nerdbot-Con!

Hi guys! This is a busy later half of the con season for me as some of my favorite cons happen in September! One of them happens to be Nerdbot-Con! Nerdbot-Con is an extremely affordable one day con that happens in Pasadena, California. This con is like a fine wine, it gets better with age. No joke! I have attended each year since it has started and it has become more elaborate and continued to the bar without breaking the bank. That is one of the reasons I am extremely pleased to be covering this event as a member of the press, this year. I hope to see you there! Read below for more info! :)




Date: August 14 th , 2018

NERDBOT MEDIA presents NERDBOT-CON 2018

Saturday September 22 nd , 2018
10am – 5pm

*ONE DAY ONLY NERD CULTURE AND COSPLAY CONVENTION*
*Over 120 Vendors*Celebrity Guests*Cosplay Contests*Nerd Karaoke*
*Nerf Gun Zombie Shoot Out*Photo Rooms*Panels*Live Music*Performances*

AND MORE!

*Tickets are on sale now for $18/will go up to $22 at the door*
*Kids under 12 are free with Adult Ticket purchase*

*Celebrity Guests Include*
Gregg Berger – Cartoon Voice Actor
Rikki Simmons – Cartoon Voice Actor
Suzie Plakson – Star Trek Actress

Rikishi – WWE Hall of Famer

Christopher Khayman Lee – Power Rangers Actor
Jack Guzman – Power Rangers Actor
Gigi Edgley – Actress
Eric Bauza – Voice Actor
And More!

All paid ticket holders have free entry to the Nerdbot-Con After-Party!

This will be NERDBOT MEDIA’S 3rd annual NERDBOT-CON at the Pasadena Convention
Center.
In 2018, we are going to go bigger and better with more activities, more vendors, more music,
more guests, more games, and awesome panels!

NERDBOT-CON is your alternative to huge, faceless and expensive conventions with long lines
and enormous crowds that steal your soul (and your wallet!). Our safe and family friendly event
is centrally located in the heart of beautiful Pasadena, California.

NERDBOT MEDIA, a leading company in new media and journalism, has been organizing great
meet ups, after parties, and night events in the Los Angeles area for the past three years,
including the brand-new smash hit anime convention Anime Pasadena.

Our staff has been attending and covering conventions for years now. We think it’s time for
something different! NERDBOT-CON is a fun and interactive event for all attendees.
Cosplayers, photographers, collectors, and all Nerds and geeks that just want to go out, see their
friends, and have an AWESOME time.

Our mission is to bring the very best photographers, videographers, vendors, and entertainment
to the beautiful Pasadena Convention Center. It’s going to be an amazing day of interactive
giveaways, panels, Cosplay contests and photoshoots.

Our official NERDBOT-CON 2017 Highlight Video is available on YouTube!
The Grand Geek Gathering reviewed NERDBOT-CON 2017 and had an amazing time!

Find NERDBOT all over Social Media:
NERDBOT-CON on Facebook
NERDBOT Media Official Website
NERDBOT Media on Facebook
NERDBOT Media on Twitter
NERDBOT Media on Instagram
NERDBOT Media on YouTube

For inquiries about Nerdbot Media and Nerdbot-Con please contact:
Elvin@nerdbot.com
Anthony@nerdbot.com
Loryn@nerdbot.com



Let me know in the comments below, if you'll be enjoying any cons this fall! 🍂🍂🍂
Till Next Time!

-Hachi

LVL on UP at this EXPO! - Press Edition

Hi all! Happy August! I hope everyone has been well and keeping cool, this summer. Southern California just got through a big heat wave of its own, this past weekend. IT WAS AWFUL. However, I digress. The real reason for today's post is to give my full on review for Lvl Up Expo in Las Vegas! This is a long time coming because I went on a brief con review hiatus due to harassment after my Long Beach Comic Expo post. I believe that situation is now resolved and I am looking forward to going to Long Beach Comic Con nearing the end of Summer.

So Lvl Up Expo is one of the most popular conventions in Las Vegas, if not the most popular one from a cosplayer's perspective. You will get crowds coming to this convention from California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and other surrounding areas as it is a good transitioning con from the Spring to Summer con season. By California standards, Lvl Up Expo would be considered a medium sized con. Everyone knows con season is in full force starting in May since there are so many back to back conventions that happen that month. I was pleased to start my "summer" con season with Lvl Up Expo. Would you believe that going to Lvl Up Expo was my second time in Las Vegas as an adult outside of the airport? It shocks the masses of Southern Californians that I know, as funny as that sounds.

I attended Lvl Up Expo on both Friday and Saturday, as I had to leave back to California on Sunday. Day 1, I received my press badge and was greeted by friendly, welcoming faces. That's a great way to start off a convention. As someone who as volunteered and staffed for Comic Con International, the first impressions you make on you attendees go a long way. Afterwards, I walk onto the convention floor. I arrived a little late on Friday, so the con was not extremely crowded, but still there was a hustle and bustle of people around me.

I am a cosplaying photographer, so I always float around the convention floor looking for cosplayers to shoot while in cosplay. It's a fun venture to do as it leaves me opportunities to be shot and opportunities to meet new people.

 For instance, the cosplayer below, Haley, aka H Cosplay is a Las Vegas cosplayer that happens to cosplay as Harley Quinn. Harley is one of my main cosplays even though I do not do any of her original forms, so I was happy to work with her on day 1 of the convention.

Instagram: @h.cosplay

On day two (Saturday), I cosplayed as Bumblebee from Teen Titans and encountered several Teen Titans cosplayers and we formed an accidental Teen Titans cosplay gathering. After we did group shots, I took individual photos of everyone.  The two below are J'son and Badger (Nightwing and Robin).

Instagram - @deku_to_dekiru_cosplay & @badgercosplays

 I also got to try out ax throwing, which was extremely hard to do with a corset and butterfly wings on 😂 I loved the opportunity though! It is not something I have seen at any con I've gone to in California or Canada. Also, the wrestling component of the con was hilarious. It was well orchestrated that it even got some chuckles out of this grown lady.

This was so hard. Photo courtesy of the Ax throw vendors.

So many laughs

All in all, I had a nice two days at Lvl Up Expo. Rating: 8/10

• My primary con about this con was that if you were looking for something, some of the staff was not very knowledgeable about where things were, which sadly caused me to miss panels.
• Perhaps some training sessions beforehand can alleviate this.
• Also, have more security roaming the floor of the convention center because there were some uncomfortable situations I had encountered on the floor that could have been remedied by more roaming security.

A few suggestions for next year are:

• More food truck vendors so that people have options
• Better instructions of how to catch a lyft to and from the convention center because I was dropped off on the wrong side of the convention center the first time and then almost missed my return Lyft because the staff didn't know how to explain where the lyft picks up at.
• More panels and better announcement of panel times/locations

I hope everyone has had a nice summer so far. Have any of you attended any summer cons or went on any fun adventures, this summer? Let me know in the comments below and stay tuned for my next con blog about Long Beach Comic Con! 😊

Till Next Time!

-Hachi

Watchuknow about Long Beach Comic Expo? - Press Edition

Hi all! Have you guys ever have instances of writer's block? That's what went on with me these past few months. Even though I had so much to write about, and so much to say, I couldn't motivate myself to put words on paper, so to speak. I cannot stand the feeling. It makes me sad to have so much to say, but just could not for the life of me find the drive to put words on paper. However, I am back and would much enjoy writing about the latest convention that I had the pleasure of being press for, last month. That convention is Long Beach Comic Expo, hosted at the Long Beach Convention Center by Mad Event Management!

I have been attending LBCE for the past three years now. I have been a regular attendee, a panelist, and now a member of the press. LBCE is a two day annual convention that happens in February. Before this convention, there is a smaller conference for Comic Creators called Comic Creator Conference or C3. At the end of this conference, they have an awards gala for the Dwayne McDuffie award for Diversity in Comics. I was lucky enough to be a guest to this gala. Us guests got to see some of the biggest names in the comic book and creative pop culture world give speeches such as: Don McGregor (Black Panther & Jungle Action) and Phil LaMarr (Static Shock & Samurai Jack). We also got to learn a little bit about the five finalists and see a video acceptance of the winner of the 2018 award. Afterwards, we were treated to hor d'ourves and drinks. This event also allowed people to networks after the conference from the afternoon prior.

I always go to both Long Beach Comic Con and Long Beach Comic Expo the entire weekend. These events are very diverse in that they are more than just comic book driven. They are a collaboration of artists, cosplayers, photographers, media, and other industry professionals. Since Black Panther had just came out, several panels about the character and his series were also happening. I like that the convention stayed relevant to the times in the pop culture realm. I also like that Long Beach Comic Expo has a Space Expo attached to it. It's a nice added addition. The bag checks and security screenings were very easy to go through and efficient. The convention felt very safe as local law enforcement were at the con as well to keep the peace. The food trucks were out giving attendees options outside of the restaurants and convention center dining. The staff actually looked like they wanted to be there, which is not the case at some conventions I have attended. The security workers had good vibes and positive attitudes, which made for a welcoming experience.

I had a blast at the convention for the most part. 9/10 stars (would always attend, if given the chance and opportunity) By the way, the dates for next year's Long Beach Comic Expo are : February 16-17, 2019. If you can't wait that long and want to enjoy another Long Beach convention, Long Beach Comic Con, also hosted by MAD Event Management is September 8th and 9th, 2018. Check them both out, if you can! :) This year is also Long Beach Comic Con's 10th show!

The only downside was, I have two convention creeps that follow me around most cons, and one creepy vendor that had previously sexually harassed me at LBCC, and encountered two of the three. One, I was able to get away from, and the other proceeded to push his boundaries by practically french kissing my hand after I said I wasn't comfortable hugging him. If I could ever get photos of the three, I would make sure they couldn't harass anyone else. They only seem to do it when security is not around. A possible solution to this is to have more security and make them roam the hall floors more often, as well as the outer limits of the con.

 If anyone in my viewership has ever been harassed or stalked at a con, concert, or other event, please go to someone trusted for help. It is not your fault, and never will be your fault. Cosplay or any type of attire worn is not consent for unwanted advances or sexual harassment. Be someone's advocate, or be your own, but most importantly be safe and aware.


I would normally post a bunch of photos from the convention, but unfortunately, Adobe Lightroom CC Mobile messed up on me and deleted all of my photos from the con. Luckily, I was able to upload a few cosplayer photos before this happened and those can be found on my photography Instagram page: @himawarisayscheese.


Let me know in the comments below what your favorite part of comic book, anime, or pop culture conventions is. My next major con that I will be writing about is Lvl Up Expo in Las Vegas, NV. Take care and treat each other with kindness.


Till Next Time!

-Hachi

LACC 2017 Recap - Press Edition

Hi all! I know this is a little delayed of a post, but I've been extremely busy, this month. I went to Vancouver, British Columbia for a week to present my Master's Thesis at a research conference. I also went to Fan Expo Vancouver, fun times were had! I digress though, today's post is about Los Angeles Comic Con, so I hope that you enjoy it since "con season" is essentially over for the year in California.

Me cosplaying as Nana Osaki from the manga/anime Nana. - LACC Day 1

I attended LACC for three days as a press member. That was an interesting experience for my first time officially covering a larger convention despite some hiccups along the way. I would like to recap each day attended and end this post with my overall opinion of LACC 2017. This review is fully honest and not sugar coated in the least bit.

Friday: 
I arrived at the convention a few hours after badge pick up opened and noticed that there were banners to tell attendees where to go line up at. That was very efficient because they had a line for regular attendees with weapons, without weapons, with bags, and a line for VIP, Press/Exhibitors/Panelists. This made the shuffle easier to go about as bag check right upon entry was fast and hassle free. Afterwards, we had to go to the pre-registration booth for press to get our badge. The main issue with this part was that many of the staffers running the badge pick up were not very cordial with the attendees and it did not make for a welcoming experience. However, the bag check security members were really kind people. The convention opened 30 minutes later than they were supposed to despite only having the vendor's hall and the fashion show happening on Friday. I am someone that typically enjoys going to panels on the slower days, so that was a little disappointing that there were no panels happening. I was able to do some photo shoots with various cosplayers though and that was nice. The overall downside to the Friday convention was that the night security staff had horrible attitudes and threatened my photographer friends and I. The way these security guards acted did not represent the convention well at all. If anything, it reflected negatively on the convention given that these people are selected to work a convention and should do their best to keep the attendees happy.

The full look of my Nana Osaki cosplay - photography courtesy of @francheezy24_7

Many cosplayers came casual on Friday - @francheezy24_7

While cosplayers went all out on Friday -@actcostumes

Saturday: 
I decided to get to the convention a little later, and did a few photo shoots as both a cosplayer and as a photographer. I didn't attend any panels that day, but I did get to collaborate with other photographers to hone my craft. I also spoke with various cosplayers and photographers asking how the convention was going for them. The overall opinion for Saturday was positive. Most people, including myself had a great time on Saturday. All of the security were friendly and way more lax when it came to closing time than they were on Friday when they kept threatening us. They still opened up the vendor hall later than expected as I was told by other attendees. I spent a majority of my time doing photo shoots with my friend Derek ( @tammohawk.photography). He was teaching me how to do studio style photography with lights. I am rather pleased with how the photos came out. Saturday was probably my favorite day of the convention.

A practice session with @takingbacksam as genderbent halloween Harley Quinn & @tammohawk.photography.

@allyn_monroe slays as Emma Frost

@misstinakay89 kicking butt as Damian Wayne's Robin. 

@nikki_s_k as Injustice Raven

Sunday:
I came to the convention a little later and checked out the Disney cosplayer gathering to get some photos for that event. I also did some photography with my partner: Jerry (@jackofalltradesx11) as both his model and fellow photographer. We went around the vendors hall and checked out various booths. We spent a decent amount of time at the booth of Alicia Marie Body. She was the nicest person I have ever met for a "popular" cosplayer. She was funny, cordial, and welcoming to everyone, who came to check out her booth. I also bought a Reptar Bar from the FYE booth. The overall downside of this day was that I was sexually harassed on six different occasions by both men and a woman. As a result, I would like to express this regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, "COSPLAY IS NOT CONSENT"! Do not ever touch or grab at a person just because they are in cosplay. Always ask politely for photographs or any contact, and do not make vulgar sexual remarks towards any person. Please refer back to my previous post on how to experience your first con. There were no security around to report a person, who has stalked me for the past two years at a different convention to the point I have to always be around someone at cons or I feel uncomfortable going. I am certain that this particular person, who commonly cosplays as Waldo has done this to other people as well. This can be fixed by having a larger amount of security at a con.

@aliciamariebody as Lola Bunny

@spideydna as Spider-Man

@justnaction as Black Panther. I can't wait for that movie, next year!

@_jaegerb_ as a genderbent Joker

My overall takeaways from LACC 2017:

• The con had a primarily chill atmosphere. 
• They need to hire better security as I was told by multiple photographers that they were threatened by security guards and nothing happened upon reporting it.
• The booklets were simple  to understand and straight to the point.
• Most attendees were more interested in the vendor's hall than the panels.
• Cosplayers were more likely to attend on the bigger days rather than the opening days. 
• The staff needs to be a bit more enthusiastic especially when people are picking up badges. 
• I have done badge pickup duty for both SDCC and WonderCon & have noticed when the people giving the badges are upbeat, it makes for an overall better experience for the attendees. 
• Fix the communication between professional attendees on guest lists as many people doing panels were not on the list and could not easily pick up their badges
• The public relations staff is great with communication though. (I was always kept up to date with all new announcements regarding the con. )
• The convention needs to be more strict on timing and stay true to their scheduling.
• Con rating: 8/10
• I would return again for 2018
• The factors that caused this rating were the lack of enthusiasm by several staff members, opening the vendor's hall late, not enough security guards, and the fact that nothing was done about security guards threatening attendees. 
• All of these factors are fixable. 
• I hope to actually makes the Club Comic Con event, next year too. 

Well that's it for my LACC review! I hope this was thorough enough, and stay tuned for my future posts now that I have free time again!

Did you attend LACC? What was your overall opinion of the con? Let me know in the comments below.

Till Next Time!

-Hachi