NDK 2014

So this weekend was an amazing success!  Not counting the fun parties check out these Highlights.

1. The Cosplay Triage Unit fixed well over 300 unique costumes.  We were asked return to NDK next year.  We even were complimented by other cons.  But one of the coolest moments, was Sunday after all the con hype and costume contests was over, one of the contestants that won, who we helped with her costume, came down to the shop and thanked everyone for helping to repair her costume. The amazing humility she showed was a credit to the craft.  You are welcome Miss, you know who you are, keep up the humility it's a glorious character trait!

2. I won a 1st and second place awards in the Model show, my fiancé Meagen won an award, and my friend Glocker won 1 first place and two 2nd place prizes. Count that as 6 prizes for the movie night crowd!!! 

3.  In the Art show, I sold both Pchan and the Mushroom lawn ornaments and Meagen sold both the Sun and Moon from Soul Eater. 3 of the 4 went to the charity auction!!!

 4. Although my Mecha lost in the masters category to other amazing costumes, many friends won.   And better yet, many of the contestants costumes made it across the stage do to the diligent work of the Cosplay Triage Unit.  And although there is no "Official trophy" for stitching and gluing costumes back together 10minutes before the show.  We know how many of those wins we made possible.   So a big round of applause for my CTU staff;  Meagen Partin,  Eric Moore, Barbara Dennis, Kenny Derry, Anna Elis, and Rayn Harvey.

5.  I won a staff award called the "Rising Star" for the amazing execution of Cosplay Triage Unit.  So maybe there is an "Official trophy" after all. (Don't get it? read number 4 again).

6. I was featured on Westword.com in this weekend "the Excellent Cosplayers of Nan Desu Kan 2014. Picture Number 89. http://www.westword.com/slideshow/the-excellent-cosplayers-of-nan-desu-kan-2014-41854544/#89  As A throw back I also made the list on Westword in 2012 for my samurai armor, http://www.westword.com/slideshow/nan-desu-kan-2012-bronies-lolitas-and-dreamers-37749749/#14  and again in the 50 Best costumes in 2010 http://www.westword.com/slideshow/50-best-cosplayers-at-nan-desu-kan-31025488/#44 The only year I think I was not featured in Westword, was 2011.

7.  But the clincher on what made this the best NDK.... I personally sat down with Kevin McKeever of Harmony Gold who talked fondly of my Robotech costume from a  few years ago.  Talked with either David Vincent about transferring the imagination of anime artists in to the real world. Talked briefly with Jason and Heather Martin, although I don't think she recognized me without Sharpedo (But I still love the pokemon shoot we did in 2013).

A number of other staff, guests, and directors approached me wondering why I didn't win anything in the costume contest, and gave their praise,  but one guest Judge was introduced to me and it lead to something very uplifting.   Associate Professor of Japanese Literature at the University of Oregon, Alisa Freedman was introduced to me by a good con friend George.   We talk for a long time. And after a while she asked me to submit work for a project she is working on.  I'm not saying that, that means anything I submit would be accepted.  But it was a great compliment, and it's a great testament to the quality of my costumes.  And has to be one of the most enduring compliments I have ever gotten. 

And that makes for one freaking amazing weekend.

NDK 2013 Return of the Blog.

Got back from Nan Desu Kan 2013 Last night decided I should get back into posting. I quit my blogs to work on a charity and to due some political work. I'll get back to that in another post.

NDK was amazing this year.  But some recap every year I enter into the costume/cosplay contest.  Costuming is a huge hobby of mine and I rather enjoy it. I enjoy the cheers from other participants. The last 4 years have tallied a good collection of awards and honors, so I took a year off.  Rather than compete I ran a "Cosplay Triage Unit"  Consisting of Eric Moore, Barbara Dennis (Ara), and myself.  You May know them via costumes like Duct tape Gundam and Vaporeon.  We got to help a bunch of people fix their costumes before the went on stage.  A Special thanks to Eric and Ara for helping me with it.

I would also like to thank Katie Huber and Christina Marzano Haystead of the NDK Staff for helping me set this up.  I think it went well and I hope we can do it again. 

So rather than competing in a cosplay event I stood around fixing costumes with gorilla tape, hot glue, and a sewing kit. I might suffer from some sort of mental ailment.
But I did Get to do a lot more than I normally get to given the time restraints of the contest.

So this year at NDK I took part in wondering around seeing the events I normally miss.
Like Make and Take: An event where you can make models from Japan and take them home with you.
This one is called Bob, not really but he is from the BB line of Gundam Models from Ban Dai.  It was fun putting him together.  You can pick models like him up at local model stores around the world.  like Hobby Town or if you are in the Aurora/Lakewood area Colpar Hobbies.  Speaking of Colpar Hobbies they gave me a gift certificate for a scratch build Dragoon pistol I made.  I should get up there and pick Bob here up a friend. 

The following Pictures are From NDK 2013 in Denver Colorado. If I have the name of the participants it will be posted. If you know them please share their name/contact info.   If you know someone feel free to share their name and link the picture to their page.  The pictures on this webpage  should be used for personal purposes only as a computer background or mobile smartphone wallpaper. Any commercial usage of the picture as it is displayed is strictly prohibited and is not condoned by this website.

So lets start off with something adorable!

 

A very well done Samus in a Zero Suit. 

Character: Samus Aran
Game: Metroid
Model:
Photographer/ Fred Mehner
Background art: By Alphacoders,  Image: 6884, http://wall.alphacoders.com

 

Kawaii! I thought this dress was so adorable. Its also made from old wedding dresses. 

Character: Chi
Anime:Chobits
Model:
Photographer/ Fred Mehner

 

A very well made set of armor. I particularly liked how the boots were done. 

Character: Saber
Anime: Fate/Stay Night
Model:
Photographer/ Fred Mehner

 

Ballet poses are always a nice touch. 

Character: Princess Tutu
Anime:Princess Tutu
Model:
Photographer/ Fred Mehner

This wig was very cool.

Character: Yami
Game/Anime :Yu-Gi-Oh
Model:
Photographer/ Fred Mehner

I had the most fun on Saturday.  Met up with a bunch of Team Aqua (3rd generation Pokemon)

Character: Team Aqua
Game/Anime: Pokemon
Model: Fred Mehner (Archie)  Aqua members 1-3
Photographer:  Eric Moore, Editor: Fred Mehner



Well that's all the pics I am going to share today. I will post a few more later this week.  I hope you enjoyed these few that I have had time to photoshop.  Anyone in the picture, if you contact me I will get you a copy, without a watermark.

Future topics,  What is Team S.AB.L.E..  Why did everyone let the Ork King Take all those awards.  Why won't your cellphone work at cons or how to stop worrying and meet the bomb, bomb people I mean.  And probably the most important topic winning friends and influencing people without resorting to bribing them with Ramen and Sake.

One last thing, If you have a pic of me from a local con you might be entitled to prizes, fame, and fortune.  Maybe, if your lucky.


Have a good night Peeps.

Unlawfull act of Sedition by U.S. Congress *Repost*

*This is a reposting from my other blog, The Colorado Geographer.  I felt it was important to share in the last 24hrs*

Dear Colorado American Citizens,

I often write about political issues dealing with environmental disasters and human rights violations. This week's blog will be no different, what is different is that normally I write about some police state, genocidal war, totalitarian regime on foreign soil. Instead, this time I write about the very real treasonous actions of the 112th United States Congress. 

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012 Section 1031 allows for the indefinite detention of U.S. Citizens. For no other reason than the United States Government deems it prudent. If you want to Read Section 1031 of the NDAA 2012 you can find it here (http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h112-1540 ).

Section 1031 is unlawful, immoral, unjust and unconstitutional. I am lucky to live in Colorado where Mark Udall Exposed section 1031. Here is what was reported about what Mark Udall had to say about the bill.

“I would also point out that these provisions raise serious questions as
to who we are as a society and what our Constitution seeks to protect,”
Colorado Senator Mark Udall said in a speech last week. One section of
these provisions, section 1031, would be interpreted as allowing the
military to capture and indefinitely detain American citizens on U.S.
soil. Section 1031 essentially repeals the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 by
authorizing the U.S. military to perform law enforcement functions on
American soil. That alone should alarm my colleagues on both sides of the
aisle, but there are other problems with these provisions that must be
resolved.”

Furthermore, Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan, Criticizes the NDAA 1031 in the following video. Criticizing that our governments executive administration asked the language that protects citizens to be removed. You read that right. Our government, our executive branch, our president, requested and our senate yielded to him. That, the provisions to protect U.S. Citizens should be removed. 93 of 100 Senators did not only heed our president's request that "We the People" should be detained without trial, they allowed it to be written, then they voted to pass it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLiKvSz_wX8&feature=colike

This will not do! The NDAA cannot be allowed to pass into law. The NDAA 1031 passed by the Congress with 93 votes for and 7 votes against. But there is still a slim chance we can stop this vile act before it becomes law. To petition NDAA 1031 follow this link before December 13th 2011. Sorry I did not get the link out on this blog sooner. Here is the link:

http://www.change.org/petitions/stop-ndaa-section-1031-citizen-imprisonment-law-before-dec-13#

The seven decent Senators who voted against this fascist monstrosity of a bill, which would effectively repeal the Bill of Rights and the Posse Comitatus Act, are Rand Paul(R-KY), Mike Lee(R-UT), Tom Coburn(R-OK), Bernie Sanders(I-VT), Tom Harkin(D-IA), Jeff Merkley(D-OR), and Ron Wyden(D-OR).

Well Happy All Saints Day.
I just wanted to share a few Pictures from Halloween.  Sorry for the lack of posting lately.  I have been busy with Real life drama's.  Student teaching, a mother suffering from cancer, and the harsh reality of declining economy of a middle class.  But Hey that's a topic for another blog.  Enjoy some sexy pics.

Carved by Meagen P.  

Angry Knight modeled by Doug

Baby Face Nelson by Bruce

Vacation Fett and Baby Face Nelson

Maverick by Glocker

SNAP INTO A SLIM JIM! with Kenny

Lil Miss Muff-it sat on her tuffet to long. by Meagen

Liz the vamp

Ah so Cute

Black Swan by Teresa

Pirate Ninja by Travis

Satanic Mechanic by Mike

Well I hope you enjoyed looking at some of the costumes from this Halloween. Talk to you soon when I have some stuff to show you for starfest.

NDK 2011 Costume Contest

Greetings, I have a new change to this blog. From this date forward when someone answers the questions I ask like "Anyone know who made this item?" with a correct answer they will get swag. The swag will be anything from prints from local artists and gift cards to anime shops to costume props to jewelry. Now onto the blog. Victory for the Masters Category! I would Like to Congradulate Michelle C., Stephanie H. (& Chris M.) and Frederick M (Hey that's me) on a job well done at NDK. These three contestants poured their hearts out to make some amazing cosplay for the Denver Region this last weekend. Have a peek bellow.

1st Place Master: #49 Michelle C. as Groudan from Pokemon

1st Place Master Craftsmanship: #45 Stephanie H. as Mellia from Knights in the Nightmare (Chris M. is co-creator)

1st Place Master Presentation: #50 Frederick M. as Captain Harlock from Captain Harlock and Old School Award: #50 Frederick M. as Captain Harlock from Captain Harlock For a complete list of all winners check out NDK's Offical Forum at: LINK Congratulations to everyone you did a wonderful job. To the winners Omedetou! It was an awesome show.

That's me chilling back stage after the contest. It was so Hot! I had to sit in front of the fan to cool off. I want to give a speacial thanks to Brooke M. Who did all my agent work for the weekend. She took photos, carried clip boards, registered me when i couldn't move, held props, grabbed water, and did just about everything I needed an extra set of hands for. Thanks Brooke. Now don't kill me but, Everyone say hi to Brooke and her nice big smile.

Brooke M. at NDK :)

I am rather proud of my friend Mike's Alucard from Hellsing. Nice staying in character nearly all weekend. I say nearly cus I think you let to many people live.

My Personal Favorite Costume from NDK. A Freaking GREYKNIGHT! Now if Only Lorenzo would get to work on mine

I'm not a big fan of furry... But in this adorable costume of Appa from Avatar the Last Air Bender, I'll make an exception. It melts my cold black Heart. So damn CUTE! So to go along with my cosplay I took along my crew. So please give a round of applause for the Crew of the Arcadia.

from Left to right then bottom. Maetel by Teresa M (in her first ever Cosplay), Harlock by Fred M, Kei Yuki by Meagen P, and First Mate Yattaran by Chris G (He even holds a model airplane). I saw a guy with these two puppets and laughed. Laughed with joy. When I was done laughing I took a pick because the detail work is really good. Anyone able to identify the puppets story of origin?

Craftsmanship Judge Storm: #12 Barbara D. as Vaporeon from Pokemon One last Picture. Its Steam Punk time, this was the premier of my Clockwork arm and brass cane. I meet many other crafty techies of the clock and gear but this is one of my favorite pictures. My next blog update will share more Steam Punk and more NDK photos (the Cosplay Skit Costumes). See you soon.

Nan Desu kan ?? days and counting

Nan Desu Kan

It is time for Nan Desu Kan (NDK), a play on words on the Japanese phrase nan desu ka (what is this?). NDK is the premier anime convention of the Rockies. It is the largest anime con in Colorado. It last 3 days, lately around the second weekend of September (but has been held in other months). NDK has a year round presence taking part in festivals (like this year's Dragon boat festival), New Years Parties, and fund raising to name a few.

I have participated in conventions for a number of years. Of the conventions in Colorado I most enjoy Nan Desu Kan. I say this with some reservation. So here is a breakdown of the main Pro's and Con's of NDK.
CON: is prominently orientated towards teens (these days). It has nowhere near the 21 plus crowd that Starfest (locally) or Anime Expo (California) has.
PRO: However the fans are doing a lot to make a strong 21 and up scene.
CON: Costuming is more restrictive at NDK then other Conventions. A number of loopholes are exploited frequently. Example: No signs, no appearance of nudity, no tentacles.
PRO: Kid safe environment for people with families. As long as parents express discretion in video rooms.
CON: Older anime series are dying out without much representation. This is a tragedy! Some old school anime's are staples of the Industry. Astro Boy, Captain Harlock, Galaxy Express 999, Battleship Yamato, Akira, Vampire Hunter D, Those Pesky Aliens, Dirty Pair, Dominion Tank Police are all amazing shows. Look them up sometime. It's a travesty of American Anime Culture that people don't know who Leji Mastumoto is.
PRO: Current industry personalities are becoming more active with NDK. I love this, it's great to see the industry supporting Denver. This year features a large variety great people, check out the guests here http://ndkdenver.org/guests.


I am looking to take part in the NDK Costume contest, the art shows and the shopping.
This is my costume from last year.

This is my costume for this year (still finishing it up).

For those who have no idea who I am dressed ass watch this. https://neoshinka.wordpress.com/2010/06/30/captain-harlock-2012-movie-trailer/


What I am looking forward to Seeing:
Jamie Marchi for no better reason then she is a hot redhead. But on a serious note, she did the voice of Masane Amaha (Whitchblade), Meg (Burst Angel) and Miss Valentine (One Piece). her role on One Piece is why I will be seeking Jamie's autograph for my pirate collection.
Few people get to have a long career in television, anime, movies, and music. Ryusei Nakao is a skilled and lucky man for doing just that. He has so much under his belt if you don't know his name look it up. For the DBZ crowd he did Frieza and Cooler, for Bleach he did Mayuri Kurotsuchi, and the list goes on.
Another Bleach voice actor is Stephanie Sheh she will be making her first apperence at NDK, she voice Orhime. She also has Voiced Eureka in Eureka 7,, and Hinata in Naruto.
Mary Elizabeth McGlynn did the voice for Major Motoko Kusanagi in Ghost in the Shell Innocence, and Stand Alone Complex. And Cornelia in Code Geas whis is pretty cool. She Directs for the Disney Channel where she has directed 4 Naruto movies.
Regardless of your anime political views of rewriting a show for an American audience. I am happy to see Steve Yun and Tommy Yune who currently run the Robotech title will be return. Which is cool for people who remember Harmony Gold brought this industry to America. Admittedly I am a big fan of their current works, and I can't wait until I see the teasers for the new Shadow Chronicles movie.
Anyway I hope you enjoyed this post and I promise to have more pictures of NDK 2011 mid September.

Dragon Boats and Cosplay pt1

Dragon Boat Festival
So I spent last Saturday from 1pm to 7pm At Denver's Dragon boat Festival. It was fun. The merchant booths offered a wide array of foods and Asian themed goods. I enjoyed the panda booth the most (but I will get back to that later).
These are the three Ladies who joined me for the trip.

Left: Anna Ellis, Middle: Meagen Partin, Right: Teresa Mooney


Here are some shots of the Dragon Boats.

The stage shows where fantastic. Sadly I don't have enough pictures of all the Dancers. I do however have the Nan Desu Kan (NDK) special guest costumers. These contributors where invited by the consul-general of Japan to cosplay and represent NDK at this year's festival. I must say it was a crowd pleaser, we had one of the best turn outs for our stage. People actually left the shade to watch the parade of costumes.
So please enjoy (Names of Cosplayers and their characters will be added soon).

1.

2.

3.

4. I love the Snowflakes on this Fabric, it was an adorable choice.

5. Megen used trip and it was super effective.

6. I love the scale details of this prop.

7. These homemade butterfly wings are adorable. She made them out of copper wire and painted cloth.

8.


My Renji based Kendo Gi and Hakama.

I left my reed bamboo shoes in Colorado springs so I had to buy sandals at the festival, they broke, I nearly died tripping in them. I am exaggerating of course but man did it hurt.
My favorite booth was the Panda Preservation Booth. I received a Panda Umbrella.

Now to make a Genma Saotome costume!!!

Special thanks to Anna Ellis for taking pictures of the day and allowing me to post them for this blog.