Main Menu
Menu

Show posts

This section allows you to view all posts made by this member. Note that you can only see posts made in areas you currently have access to.

Show posts Menu

Topics - FanFicGuru

#1
Well, we've wrapped up another great year for swap meet! We are interested in hearing your feedback on the venue, timing and other elements of the event. While we are absolutely prepared for negative feedback, please be sure it is done in a constructive way so that we can make specific changes to improve swap meet.

As a pre-emotive measure, please note we sincerely apologize for the last minute re-scheduling on Friday night. Without going into too much detail, it was important that we were actually out of the venue by a certain time. Our apologies again for the last minute schedule change.

I look forward to your responses!

Jeremy Snow
Swap Meet Second
#2
Hello everyone!

Fanime is just over a week away (AHHH!) and of course the first event most people attend is the Swap Meet. I'm making this thread for experienced swap meet sellers to share some of their best practices so that our sellers and buyers have some tools at their disposal!

Seller Tips

1) Make sure to bring change! This seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people look at their patrons with a look of panic when they realize they have no 1's. Everyone's system is different, but I recommend the following ($60 in change total):
20 1's
4 5's
2 10's

This should allow you to make the proper change for enough transactions to start building up more 1's, 5's and 10's on your own. On that topic

2) Price everything in whole dollar amounts Unless you've got little collectibles and you've got rolls of quarters to give change, having items that are $1 and up in whole dollar amounts typically saves you a world of pain.

3) Bring an assistant/helper Like any good shopkeep, it's good to have some backup. Especially with the logistics of running said shop for the entirety of swap meet (until 12 AM and 1 AM respectively on Thursday and Friday), as meals will most likely be involved, and a number of bathroom breaks. Swap meet attendees and fellow sellers are awesome people and in a pinch no doubt you could get a neighbor to babysit your spot for you, but having designated help that you've brought along is ideal.

Buyer Tips

1) Don't bring bills larger than $20 - On the "change" topic, using 20's helps the sellers out tremendously, as they won't have to worry about breaking a $100 bill for the $5 plush you just bought.

2) Ask if the seller is willing to negotiate before you start haggling One element that some buyers (and sellers) enjoy is the process of "haggling", or negotiating a fair price on an item. That being said, it's not for everyone, so please do not assume that the seller is interested in negotiations. Ask first if they are willing to move on the price, and take the conversation from there. Too often I've overheard someone claim an item and offer $10 below asking without saying a single word beforehand. On this same topic, please do not get upset or take offense if the seller doesn't accept your offer.

3) Explore and take your time! Swap meet might not be as big as the dealers hall, but the variety of goods is definitely there. There are often gems buried under piles of manga, or tucked away behind boxes. Be diligent in your search for that special item, and have fun!

I'm interested in hearing from others as well so please share your tips/tricks here.

I'm honored to be working for swap meet this year and I'm looking forward to another fun year! See you all next week!
#3
Just a heads up for impending con-goers: don't forget that most of the hotels will charge you a $50/night deposit upon check in ($100/night at The Fairmont). If you are staying for 4 nights, you will see (the charge for your room) + (deposit amount x nights you are staying) as a temporary hold, and then after 2-3 business days the deposit will fall off and  you'll just be charged for the room + whatever additional charges you incurred.

If you are using a credit card with a healthy limit this shouldn't impact you too much, but if you are putting it on a debit card this could definitely tie up funds that should be set aside for the con so I just wanted to remind people to keep an eye out for that.

#4
Registration / KUDOS TO REGISTRATION!
May 22, 2014, 12:45:50 PM
I know it's only Thursday, but they opened the line 3 hours early and the process is extremely smooth! One of the vice chairs was in front of me and said they average 3600/hour with the new system. GREAT JOB REG STAFF! Let's see how tomorrow goes...
#5
The convention approaches! I haven't been to fanime for a couple years but figured I'd come say hi for the 20th anniversary. How much have you guys got saved up for the con this year? I've got a couple paydays between now and then...so I should have about $800-850ish.

Anything in particular on your shopping list for this year? I'm interested in some of the One Piece figures, maybe some good gaming finds at the swap meet. Otherwise, I don't really buy much in terms of DVDs/blu-ray at con.

I'm interested to hear from the rest of you!
#6
Hotel and Facilities / Hotel Logistics Information
January 30, 2014, 03:39:15 PM
Howdy everyone! Now, Fanime is just around the corner here's a quick reference guide to checking into a hotel. After all, this might be your first time checking into a hotel room, you just turned 18 (good for you!) and you want to make sure you don't look stupid.

In any case, here's a step by step with a small disclaimer: while most Hotels follow a generally universal mode of check in, there may be some minor exceptions. However, if you follow these general rules and come across an exception simply thank the person at the desk for clarifying or pointing that out to you, or you can ask for a specific clarification as you approach the desk.

One important thing before we start the list: YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO CHECK IN TO A HOTEL ROOM. Notes from mom won't cut it. Mom could check you into the hotel room, or a fellow roommate who is 18 or over, but don't expect to check in if you are by yourself or with a group of minors all between 15 and 17 years old. I'm sure some people will respond with "I've done it before!" but keep in mind the rule, not the exceptions.

Anyways, here it is:

Step 1) Arrival time at the hotel- Hotels generally have an accepted check in time, anywhere between 3 PM and 5 PM on your "check-in" date. However, these are not always set in stone. You can call ahead to your hotel and sometimes they'll let you in as early as 10 AM or perhaps earlier (depending on the situation). In any case, it's always good to ask and if the front desk tells you that they can't check you in until 3 PM or whatever, thank them for their time and plan on checking in then.

Step 2) Approach the desk with 1) your Government issued-ID (Student ID's will NOT cut it. No joke. It might work with Fanime registration staff, but Hotels will not budge on the government issued ID thing),  2) Credit or debit card that you reserved the room with EDIT: It has come to my attention that certain hotels don't necessarily need the card you reserved the room with and it should be noted that possessing the card you held the room with is highly recommended in this guide, but not necessarily a requirement based on your hotel. Thanks. and 3) if necessary, the credit or debit card that you are going to use to pay for the room (if different from the card used to reserve it). This part is VERY IMPORTANT especially if you had your mom or dad use their card to hold the room. The front desk will at least need to see the card that was used to hold the room upon check in. Again, they don't necessarily HAVE to charge that specific card (in case you want to put it on another credit card instead), but the card that was used to hold the room needs to be present.

Additionally, make sure that you tell them which card is which BEFORE you set them down on the counter/hand them over. One year I set down both of my cards and the woman at the desk swiped the first card (the one I held the room with but didn't want to pay with) and I said "Just to clarify that's the room I reserved with, I want to pay with this other card." At which time she cancelled the charge on my initial card and swiped the second card. However, the pending charge for the room + deposit stayed on my account all weekend and I was out ~500 dollars until Tuesday, long after Fanime was over. In any case, make sure that the charge is put only on the card you intend to pay with, as pending charges and working with banks over Memorial Day weekend can be a real hassle.

3) After the person at the desk swipes the card you are paying with and the charge goes through successfully, they will begin processing your room keys. It is at this point that you should ask for additional room keys, say if you have 4 people in your room, you would want 4 keys. It is typically not in good Hotel form to issue out more than 4 keys, since there should not be more than 4 people in your average hotel room. So, if you have a setup where there are 8-10 people in a room, do NOT ask for 8-10 keys at the front desk. This will immediately cast suspicion on you and whoever else is in your room with you. Also, and this has been mentioned many times before, it is also a fire hazard and a bad reflection on convention attendees as a whole when you play stuff a bunch of people into a room like a can of sardines. Anyways, back on topic, if you have a suite you may be able to ask for up to 6 keys, I'm not entirely sure their policy on that...but if you are in a regular double-double or King room, 4 keys will be your maximum.

4) Upon receiving your keys and room number, you can use this time to ask any last minute questions regarding amenities such as pool hours, internet charges, room service, etc. If you have nothing more to say, grab your luggage and head up to your room!

That's it! You've checked into a hotel room and are ready to enjoy Fanime.

Some final clarifications:

Check-out date: Your check out time is typically 11 AM-noon on the day of your check-out. You can request up to an additional 2 hours usually without incurring any additional charges. If you are leaving later in the day, the front desk can hold your luggage for you while you finish walking around the convention.

Deposits : There has been some debate on this as far as how much, at which hotels and if they happen at all. Here's my general rule: expect that your hotel will charge you $50 a night for incidentals on top of your total bill upon check in. Therefore if you are staying for 3 nights and your cost for the weekend is $300, be prepared to have $450 charged to whatever card you are checking in with. Some estimates put the nightly deposit rate at $100, but I don't want to cause undue panic if this isn't the case. $50, however, is the charge that I am familiar with and have paid for the last 4 years of my attendance. This "deposit" fee is posted to your account as an "authorization" charge, and will tie up the funds for the weekend, so be prepared for that. If you don't trash the room (stained floors/sheets, broken stuff, etc.) you will receive this deposit back in full within 1-3 business days of checking out.


Well that's it! I hope you all have a great Fanime.
#7
Hey everyone! So i've been attending Fanime for about 8 years now, and have stayed in hotels for 7/8 years. I have stayed in 3 of the major hotels and I know that with booking coming up soon, new attendees or first time hotel visitors are curious about what these different hotels have to offer. I have compiled information from other con-goers previous visits as well as my own experience to give you the low down on which hotel would be the best fit for your budget and your sanity. I hope you enjoy, and feel free to see my thread in general discussion about saving for fanime.
Note- any hotels with a * are hotels I have personally stayed in, for whatever that's worth. 

HILTON*- the San Jose Hilton is one of two hotels directly connected to the convention center on the ground and concourse levels. It typically hosts the Asian film rooms and a good chunk of panels as well. 

PROS- mini fridge in each room, easy tv hookups for gaming, etc. Large rooms and bathrooms, good showers/water pressure, cheaper parking rates.

CONS- mini fridge sometimes doesn't cool stuff very quickly, elevator waits can be nightmarishly long, being connected to the con means constant bustling and noise at all hours (this is true of Marriott as well).

MARRIOTT*- The san Jose Marriott hotel is the other hotel directly connected to the convention center on the ground and concourse levels. The majority of the anime screening rooms are on this side, and historically con-ops is on the Marriott side as well. 

PROS- very comfortable beds, free wireless Internet for Marriott rewards members (membership is free), delicious and economical pizza package during fanime weekend.

CONS- bathrooms do not lock (sliding doors), the elevator situation is particularly bad, no mini fridge, smaller rooms.

THE FAIRMONT*- Roughly a 5 minute walk from the convention center, The Fairmont is more isolated from the hustle and bustle of the convention while still maintaining the Con vibe. The bar here is particularly good (for all you 21+ visitors). Guests of honor are typically put up in this hotel, and more recently it has been used as the guest of honor meet and greet location.

PROS- No elevator tango to deal with, quieter and more upscale environment, the bar, very large rooms and bathrooms, free Internet for members (free membership)

CONS- despite the short walk, it can be annoying if you forgot your badge/wallet/phone, higher deposit fees ($100/night as opposed to Hilton/Marriott $50)

ST. CLAIRE- located across the street from the Marriott hotel, barely spitting distance from the convention center, the St. Claire offers a slightly more economical option for con-goers interested in staying as close to the action as possible.

PROS- very quiet, friendly and helpful staff, mini fridge, futon available,working fridges, fireplace in lobby.

CONS- beds not as cozy as the other hotels, some claims of paper thin walls (?)

RAMADA INN- Also about 5 minutes away via chevrolegs (walking), the ramada inn offers cozy, basic lodging at rates every otaku loves. 

PROS- cheaper than the other hotels, great service

CONS- firm beds, walking through downtown SJ at night.

DOUBLETREE- Located 8 city blocks away, the doubletree hotel recently joined Fanime's roster of hotel partners. The doubletree offers daily shuttles to and from the convention, and the distance is reflected in the discounted pricing. 

PROS- free Internet, easy access to car, Free shuttle, Pool and Hot Tub were very nice, good price.

CONS- the shuttle schedule was wiggidy whack, according to some sources, distance from con.

Well folks, that's all I've got for now. I'll come back and make edits as necessary as well as bring in deposit and check in policies. Happy con my friends!
#8
So I have a ton of magic cards I wanted to sell, and this was my idea for pricing:

commons: 10/$1 or 60/$5
uncommons: 5/$1 or 30/$5
rares: Price determined by channelfireball.com, buy 4 rares and get the 5th free (free card of equal or lesser value than cheapest bought rare. example: you buy a $10, $7, and two $5 rares, you get a 5th rare that is $5 or less free)

Does this sound fair?

#9
Video Programming / Osamu Tezuka's "Buddha" Film
May 22, 2011, 03:50:59 PM
So Osamu Tezuka's "Buddha" is being released on the 28th. I'm not sure what kind of pull we have in Japan to be able to screen it here too, but I think that screening that premiere would be absolutely amazing. The trailer looks really good and I really enjoyed the manga so I was hoping we could get a peek.

Any chance of this happening?
#10
So I've heard that both Pre and Early registration people will be able to pick up their badges on Thursday again. Granted that this is actually the case, I have a concern. I don't want to seem petty, but one of the main reasons why I got a pre-reg badge and have done so for the past 7  years or so is because I got to come on Thursday evening with a relatively small group to get my badge. Now I don't have an issue with letting Early registration people pick up their badges on the same night, but is there any way we can separate the lines? Last year I arrived fairly early and still the line was really long (I was waiting for about 3-4 hours) because there were a lot of early reg people there.

In any case, I know organizing all of this stuff is a headache to begin with and I appreciate all of the registration staff's attempts to make it a smooth process, but if you could address this so that pre registration people could get through the line just a bit quicker that would be great. Thanks!
#11
Last year I recall the Thursday badge pickup was extended to Early reg badges as well as pre-reg. Does registration staff know if you'll be doing this again? Or will there just be a separate early reg line starting on Friday morning?

#12
Hey everyone! This thread is for people to preview any and all goods they might be selling at Swap Meet. It's particularly helpful for those more particular and/or bulky items that you may not want to bring unless someone is definitely interested. I'll be posting my list of goods soon enough, and I look forward to seeing you all at the Swap Meet!

I will be selling the following anime series (clearing out my collection):

Giant Robo complete: $20
xxxHolic complete: $30
Comic Party Revolution Complete: $20
Grenadier Complete: $25
Gad Guard Complete: $25
Berserk Complete: $40
Pumpkin Scissors Complete: $25
Genshiken Complete: $30
Ah! My Goddess Complete: $40
Tenchi in Tokyo vols. 1-6: $3

I will also be selling Magic Cards of varying colors and rarity. Below is a list of the rares I will be selling with their associated prices. NOTE: In some cases I may have added a penny to the quoted value according to Channelfireball.com, while in other cases I dropped the price a few pennies.

Magic Rares and Prices:
Wild Pair - .75
Forgotten Ancient- 2.25
Patron of the Orochi – 1.25
Verdant Embrace - .50
Summoner's Pact- 6.00
New Frontiers- 1.00
Vitalizing Wind – 1.00
Molten Firebird - .25
Wake of Destruction- 1.00
Fatal Frenzy - .25
Emperor Crocodile - .25
Kumano, Master Yamabushi - .75
Groundbreaker- 1.50
Vinelasher Kudzu – 1.00
Arashi, the Sky Asunder- .75
Beacon of Creation – 3.00
Roaring Slagwurm- .25
Wurmcalling- .25
Life and Limb- .25
Root Elemental - .25
Magus of the Library - .25
Creeping Tar Pit – 8.00
Tower of Murmurs - .25
Breath of Fury- .25
Shimatsu the Bloodcloaked- .25
Jiwari, the Earth Aflame- .25
Wheel of Fate- 1.00
Chorus of the Conclave- .25
Vorosh, the Hunter- 1.00
Eiganjo Castle- .75
Shizo, Death's Storehouse- 1.50
Candles of Leng - .25
Triskelavus - .25/ 1.00 (foil)
Ertai, the Corrupted - .75
Intet, the Dreamer – 1.00
Plague Boiler - .25
Isperia the Inscrutable - .50
Crown of Convergence - .25
Tribal Golem - .25
Jhoira of the Ghitu – 4.00
Door to Nothingness – 1.75
Rith, the Awakener – 4.00
Hall of the Bandit Lord - .50
Mindleech Mass - .75
Stonebrow, Krosan Hero- .25
Rishadan Pawnshop - .25
Tangle Wire – 5.75
Radha, Heir to Keld - .75
Numot, the Devastator – 1.00
Oros, the Avenger - .50
Overgrown Estate - .25
Kher Keep - .50
Shinka, the Bloodsoaked Keep - .50
Doom Cannon - .25
Thada Adel, Acquisitor - .25
Death's Shadow – 1.00
Sudden Spoiling – 2.00
Magus of the Coffers – 1.00
Temporal Extortion – 1.75
Reversal of Fortune - .25
Pyromancer's Swath - .50
Defense of the Heart – 8.00
Furnace Dragon - .75
Hex - .50
Quicksilver Amulet – 4.50
Demonfire – 1.50
Lightning Surge - .25
Carnifex Demon - .25 / .50 (foil)
Geth, Lord of the Vault – 1.00
Voidstone Gargoyle - .25
Detritivore - .25
Panoptic Mirror – 5.25
Fortune Thief - .50
Ezuri's Brigade - .25
Myr Welder - .25
Myr Turbine - .50
Bringer of the Green Dawn – 1.50
Sword of Feast and Famine – 18.00
Decree of Savagery – 2.50
Mimic Vat – 2.50
Psychic Battle - .25
Jeweled Spirit - .25
Porphyry Nodes - .25
Wakestone Gargoyle - .25
Leyline of the Meek - .50
Spelltithe Enforcer - .25
Hunted Lammasu - .50
Opal Guardian - .25
Defender of the Order - .25
Trap Digger - .25
Living End - .75
Roiling Horror - .25
Kuro, Pitlord - .50
Dream Leash- .25
Riptide Entrancer - .25
Serendib Sorcerer - .50
Psionic Sliver - .79
Nim Devourer - .25
Aerial Caravan - .25
Vizzerdrix - .25
Psychic Trance - .25
Aeon Chronicler - .50
Wheel and Deal – 1.00
Contagion Engine – 1.50
Quagnoth - .25
Chord of Calling – 8.00
Rhox - .50
Hunted Troll - .50
Isao, Enlightened Bushi - .50
Putrefax - .50
Multani, Maro-Sorcerer – 1.75
Chronosavant - .25
Magus of the Tabernacle - .75
Leyline of Lifeforce - .75
Stonewood Invocation - .25
Elvish Piper – 4.00
Kaervek the Merciless - .75
Sisters of Stone Death - .75
Volcano Hellion- .25
Restore Balance - .75
Spellshift - .25
Jedit Ojanen of Efrava - .25
Mesa Enchantress - .50
Serra Sphinx - .50 / 1.00 (foil)
Primordial Sage - .50
Endrek Sahr, Master Breeder - .50
Acquire – 1.00
Phyrexian Dreadnought: 30.00

I do have multiples of some of these cards, including the dreadnoughts.

As for the complete anime sets: they are all either litebox or the recently released Super Amazing Value Edition from Funimation and are all in absolute MINT condition. They are all region 1 and feature english dubs or subtitles. If you are interested in any of these series please feel free to shoot me a PM requesting a hold. I will ask for your cell number and will hold your item for one (1) hour at which time I will call and confirm the purchase. If you are unable to make it then I will release it for sale.

Thanks!
#13
Hotel and Facilities / Your Hotel Stay- 2010
June 01, 2010, 01:57:10 PM
So how was your stay this year? Where did you stay? What was good? What was bad?

Let's leave some information for next year's hotel goers!
#14
General Convention Discussion / WHEEEEEE!
May 26, 2010, 03:21:26 PM
Insert the obligatory squeal of excitement/happiness that Fanime is now within 24 hours of beginning!

HUZZAH!

WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!
#15
Dear Registration staff,

First, a thank you. I know that orchestrating this gigantic event takes countless hours of preparation and logistical coordination. For that I am greatly appreciative.

That being said, I'm wondering how wise it was to open up Thursday night to early registration people as well as pre registered people? Considering that the early reg deadline just passed this last week, doesn't that sort of eliminate the advantage of pre-registering (besides the fancier badges)? I fear that the line will be far longer than registration is anticipating, or one that could be handled within the 3 hour window that registration will be open on Thursday night. Will early reg have a separate line from pre-reg? Any information would be great.

Thanks again.
#16
Hotel and Facilities / Room availability...
May 17, 2010, 11:27:22 PM
If you haven't found a place to crash or still really want a place to yourself, check the hotel reservation system again. It seems that some rooms have opened up due to last minute cancellations (always happens) and/or the hotels released some more rooms. Just thought I'd let you guys know. Have a great fanime!
#17
Fanime is only a few weeks away! Wow! Anyways, I'm making this thread to advertise some of the merchandise I"ll have for sale and prices in case certain buyers would be interested in contacting me in advance. Of course other sellers can utilize this thread for the same reason, especially those who may be debating bringing larger or more expensive items. Given the nature of "pre-ordering" and my desire to make sure I make money off my products, in the event that you contact me requesting a "hold" on an item, I will only hold it until 10 PM on Thursday night. After that I will release it to whoever may be interested. Anyways, onto the merchandise! Please note all prices are negotiable (within reason) Also, ALL of these DVDs are used but still in MINT condition. I take good care of my stuff.

(2) Sets of Mai-Hime COMPLETE. Comes with art box, t-shirt and all 7 region 1 DVDs. $50/set
(2) Sets of Fullmetal Alchemist COMPLETE. All 52 episodes in 4 box sets. Asking $125/set
(2) Sets of Pumpkin Scissors COMPLETE. First three DVDs in singles, episodes 14-26 in a box set of the second half. Asking $45/set
(1) Set of X TV series COMPLETE. Comes on 8 region 1 DVDs. $40
(1) Set of Tenchi Universe COMPLETE. Comes on 8 region 1 DVDs. $40
(1) Tsubasa Season 1 thinpak. $35
(1) Set of Samurai 7 COMPLETE. Comes on 7 region 1 DVDs. $40
Tenchi in Tokyo DVDs 1-6 $5/each
Assorted DVDs and DVD's w/box for $3-8 each

I'll also have a few wall scrolls for $5-15 each. Let me know if you're interested in any of this stuff.


#18
Registration / Last day to update fan names?
May 02, 2010, 06:52:21 PM
To whoever can answer my question,

When is the last day I can update fan names on the group registration that I have? A couple of my sisters didn't know what they wanted their fan names to be but I want them to decide soon so...when should I say I need them?
#19
Hello everyone.

I created this Facebook group yesterday and today I'm running around (electronically) to gather up some more members on all the anime boards that I currently post on.

I created this group because I feel as though Mr. Miyazaki is incredibly deserving of this award, as his influence in the world of animation is hard to deny and the films that he has created inspire and engage us. He has always kept his youth, his vision, and his vivid imagination as he continues to create worlds and characters that stand apart and often make us reflect upon ourselves and the societies that we belong to.

I am the last person who would like to admit this, but we do not know how much longer Mr. Miyazaki will be with us, and as such I feel that it would be a fitting time to honor Mr. Miyazaki with an Honorary Academy Award for his lifelong contributions to the world of animated film.

If you are on Facebook, please join this group. I will soon be putting together the official petition, so if the Facebook group doesn't work for you, you can sign the petition.

Thank you very much. The link is below:

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=391713662743#!/group.php?gid=391713662743
#20
Panels and Workshops / Complicating "The Samurai" panel
January 26, 2010, 05:31:12 PM
Hello all!

I am currently a first year graduate student at UC Santa Cruz studying Japanese history, specifically the impact that Article 9 (the forced disarmament of Japan following WWII) has had on their international relations and development of a national identity in the last 60+ years.

I was interested in hosting a panel that blends pop culture with history in looking at different interpretations of "samurai" in anime, film and manga and how all of the different interpretations present a varying amount of differences from historical samurai and why that might be. I'm thinking this would be a 1 hour presentation with various random prizes for "pop quiz" questions, etc.

Would anyone be interested in something like that? Or would a history lesson be out of place at the convention?

Any feedback is appreciated!
#21
Video Programming / FMV Iron Editing contest?
December 23, 2009, 11:31:44 AM
Ok so I had an idea for a new category/event for the Fanime Music Video competition. A panel of judges who have pre-screened the AMV's select 5 editors who they feel present the most promise or uniqueness in creating awesome AMV's (with a few backups). Then they present these 5 editors with an anime and a song (or artist for some variety) and give them 6-8 hours to create an AMV from it. The editors can decline, of course, which is why there would be some backups that would be notified in the event they turn down the competition. The editing would be done on Friday so the category could be ready for the screening on Saturday. Then the voting process happens as usual, with a fan favorite and a Judges' choice.

Thoughts? 
#22
So here's an idea I had:

What if we took scenes from anime released in the previous year and set up a competition for things like the best fight scene, best male character, best female character, best new series, the best couple, the coolest entrance, funniest line, etc.? It could be held in one of the main video rooms sort of like the Fanime Music Video competition and people would get pieces of paper with each category and there would be say, 5 entries for each category. From there it would work sort of like American Idol and the clip with the most votes is made the winner. Also it could introduce people to a variety of anime from the previous year if they hadn't gotten a chance to look through all of the new series.

Thoughts?
#23
Howdy everyone! Now, Fanime is just around the corner (literally!) and I know traffic goes up a lot in these remaining days so here's a quick reference guide to checking into a hotel. After all, this might be your first time checking into a hotel room, you just turned 18 (good for you!) and you want to make sure you don't look stupid.

In any case, here's a step by step with a small disclaimer: while most Hotels follow a generally universal mode of check in, there may be some minor exceptions. However, if you follow these general rules and come across an exception simply thank the person at the desk for clarifying or pointing that out to you, or you can ask for a specific clarification as you approach the desk.

One important thing before we start the list: YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD TO CHECK IN TO A HOTEL ROOM. Notes from mom won't cut it. Mom could check you into the hotel room, or a fellow roommate who is 18 or over, but don't expect to check in if you are by yourself or with a group of minors all between 15 and 17 years old. I'm sure some people will respond with "I've done it before!" but keep in mind the rule, not the exceptions.

Anyways, here it is:

Step 1) Arrival time at the hotel- Hotels generally have an accepted check in time, anywhere between 3 PM and 5 PM on your "check-in" date. However, these are not always set in stone. You can call ahead to your hotel and sometimes they'll let you in as early as 10 AM or perhaps earlier (depending on the situation). In any case, it's always good to ask and if the front desk tells you that they can't check you in until 3 PM or whatever, thank them for their time and plan on checking in then.

Step 2) Approach the desk with 1) your Government issued-ID (Student ID's will NOT cut it. No joke. It might work with Fanime registration staff, but Hotels will not budge on the government issued ID thing),  2) Credit or debit card that you reserved the room with EDIT: It has come to my attention that certain hotels don't necessarily need the card you reserved the room with and it should be noted that possessing the card you held the room with is highly recommended in this guide, but not necessarily a requirement based on your hotel. Thanks. and 3) if necessary, the credit or debit card that you are going to use to pay for the room (if different from the card used to reserve it). This part is VERY IMPORTANT especially if you had your mom or dad use their card to hold the room. The front desk will at least need to see the card that was used to hold the room upon check in. Again, they don't necessarily HAVE to charge that specific card (in case you want to put it on another credit card instead), but the card that was used to hold the room needs to be present.

Additionally, make sure that you tell them which card is which BEFORE you set them down on the counter/hand them over. One year I set down both of my cards and the woman at the desk swiped the first card (the one I held the room with but didn't want to pay with) and I said "Just to clarify that's the room I reserved with, I want to pay with this other card." At which time she cancelled the charge on my initial card and swiped the second card. However, the pending charge for the room + deposit stayed on my account all weekend and I was out ~500 dollars until Tuesday, long after Fanime was over. In any case, make sure that the charge is put only on the card you intend to pay with, as pending charges and working with banks over Memorial Day weekend can be a real hassle.

3) After the person at the desk swipes the card you are paying with and the charge goes through successfully, they will begin processing your room keys. It is at this point that you should ask for additional room keys, say if you have 4 people in your room, you would want 4 keys. It is typically not in good Hotel form to issue out more than 4 keys, since there should not be more than 4 people in your average hotel room. So, if you have a setup where there are 8-10 people in a room, do NOT ask for 8-10 keys at the front desk. This will immediately cast suspicion on you and whoever else is in your room with you. Also, and this has been mentioned many times before, it is also a fire hazard and a bad reflection on convention attendees as a whole when you play stuff a bunch of people into a room like a can of sardines. Anyways, back on topic, if you have a suite you may be able to ask for up to 6 keys, I'm not entirely sure their policy on that...but if you are in a regular double-double or King room, 4 keys will be your maximum.

4) Upon receiving your keys and room number, you can use this time to ask any last minute questions regarding amenities such as pool hours, internet charges, room service, etc. If you have nothing more to say, grab your luggage and head up to your room!

That's it! You've checked into a hotel room and are ready to enjoy Fanime.

Some final clarifications:

Check-out date: Your check out time is typically 11 AM-noon on the day of your check-out. You can request up to an additional 2 hours usually without incurring any additional charges. If you are leaving later in the day, the front desk can hold your luggage for you while you finish walking around the convention.

Deposits : There has been some debate on this as far as how much, at which hotels and if they happen at all. Here's my general rule: expect that your hotel will charge you $50 a night for incidentals on top of your total bill upon check in. Therefore if you are staying for 3 nights and your cost for the weekend is $300, be prepared to have $450 charged to whatever card you are checking in with. Some estimates put the nightly deposit rate at $100, but I don't want to cause undue panic if this isn't the case. $50, however, is the charge that I am familiar with and have paid for the last 4 years of my attendance. This "deposit" fee is posted to your account as an "authorization" charge, and will tie up the funds for the weekend, so be prepared for that. If you don't trash the room (stained floors/sheets, broken stuff, etc.) you will receive this deposit back in full within 1-3 business days of checking out.


Well that's it! I hope you all have a great Fanime.
#24
Hello! I had a similar thread up last year but it's now buried deep in the vault of Fanime Forum goodness. So, I shall create a new thread.

The basic goal of this thread is for anyone planning on bringing goods for the swap meet to interact with other attendees who may be interested in their goods and for people to get a general idea of what's going to be out there. Does that mean scrolling through this thread is just as good as going to the swap meet? Of course not, there are bound to be dozens of people who don't list their for-sale items but still show up on Thursday and Friday. However, this thread is for people who might have slightly more valuable or rare goods to correspond with interested buyers as well as just listing what sort of things you will be bringing to the swap meet.

Personally, I've found my interest in anime dwindling over the past year, so I am purging my collection. (Going into grad school, not a lot of time etc. etc.) Below you will find a list of the DVDs that I will be selling along with their price and general status. If you are interested in any of the items I have listed below, feel free to PM me. I will be ATTEMPTING to sell on Thursday night, and I am not planning to sell on Friday so if you want to buy from me you should be there on Thursday night.

With that being said, here is what I have to offer (some haggling may be done, but typically not below $4 per DVD):


Neon Genesis Evangelion Complete Platinum thinpak- Case is in great condition. Discs are all very clean. $35 for set

Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex Complete set w/box- Includes all 7 SEALED region 1 DVDs with the box. Again, the DVDs are SEALED! $50 for set

Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig set w/bow- Includes all 7 region 1 DVDs, 6 of them are SEALED. The unsealed disc is a little dirty, but the rest of it is pristine. $50 for set.

Giant Robo complete set w/ movie- 4 disc set includes all of Giant Robo and the Ginrei Special. Box and discs are in good condition. $20 for the set.

Godannar set w/box- 6 discs out of 7. I am missing disc 2. Besides that, the discs and cases are all in great shape and so is the box. $40 for the set.

Haruhi Suzumiya Disc 1+ Special Box- This is the LE box for the North American release of Haruhi Suzumiya. Included is the first disc of the series and a CD with the track Hare Hare Yukai. Armband and hair bandana originally included are NOT present. $20 for the box w/DVD and CD.

Mushishi Complete DVD set- All 6 region 1 DVD with the box. The box sleeve has some light damage and the box itself has a few notable scuffs on the corners, but nothing too serious. The discs are all in great condition, as are the cases and case sleeves. $60 for the set.

Record of Lodoss War-  4 disc set. Box, cases and DVDs are all in good condition. $25 for the set.

Rune Soldier Louie thinpak complete set- The box is in terrible shape. Water damage has distorted it pretty badly. The discs are fine and play well. However, due to the water damage I'll be letting this set go for $15 to a happy home.

Saiyuki Collector's Box 1- 3 out of 6 discs present: Volumes 1, 4 and 5 along with the box. The discs and box are all in good condition. $25 for the set.

Saiyuki Collector's Box 2 complete set- Contains volumes 7-12 of Saiyuki. Discs and box are in great condition. $50 for the set

Saiyuki: Requiem movie- Disc and case in good condition. $5

Finally, if there is a buyer interested in buying this entire collection, instead of the $485 it would cost buying it all individually, I will sell the entire collection for $400.  PLEASE PM me if you are interested in this option and only serious buyers as well please.

I'm looking forward to the swap meet and can't wait to see what else people are looking to bring!

EDIT: Removed titles that are currently being held. Also, I will have 25 collector's box+ first DVD for a variety of titles that I will be selling ~$7.50-10 each. Keep an eye out for my store!
#25
General Anime Chat / Dealers! (Informational/Reference)
January 03, 2009, 11:51:55 AM
Hello my con-attending companions. I know that one of the most exciting parts of the convention is looking around at all of the marvelous toys inside of the dealers hall. Action figures, rare statues and posters, CDs, Manga, DVDs and the like all pique our interest and almost always cause us to regret the lack of funds we might have on us. Yet, I'm sure there are those who feel a sort of anxiety because Fanime (or other major conventions) is the only place where they know to get the more specialized goods.

Well, I created this thread in order to open the doors to the global marketplace! In other words, this will be a thread where online retailers (and tangible warehouses) will be identified, given a description of the goods they sell and a smattering of reviews by consumers who have used their services. Of course we'll cover the basics like Manga and DVDs, but as the thread progresses we will seek out the more hard-to-find items.

Of course, like my budget thread you are all more than welcome to contribute any online stores that you have found. In order to add it to the main listing (First few posts that I will reserve) please submit it in the following format:

Name of Company
Website
Physical Address (if available)
Goods Sold/Services Offered
[Optional] Sample of reviews from customers highlighting typical strengths and weaknesses of the company (e.g: Great products but very slow shipping...fast shipping but they messed up my order and their customer service was rude...etc.)

A final note: An anticipated and understandable response to this title: "Ummm...Ebay?" Yes, Ebay is an excellent place to go looking for a lot of these goods. However, even Ebay is not without its flaws, and I'm sure there are those who have had bad experiences with sellers, Ebay customer service and other elements of the website. This is meant to be an addition to the sellers you already frequent. Expanding your rolodex of vendors, so to speak.

In any case, I'll start the thread off with some reserved posts and begin adding retailers very soon.