All Convention News Here

[Ranma4699]

SITACon2 Announced


UTICA, NY ñ February 23, 2008 ñ The SITACon Convention Committee is proud to announce that Central New York's First anime convention will be returning in 2008 as SITACon2! It will again be held in Utica, NY using buildings at the State University of New York Institute of Technology (SUNYIT).

The convention is being held on October 10th through the 12th of 2008. The convention is described as a celebration of all things anime and manga (Japanese comic books), and SITACon will continue to be podcasting centric, podcasts being audio programs distributed over the internet, much like radio on an on demand basis.

The SITACon Convention Committee hopes that this event will help the anime community and industry gain wider exposure in New York State.

About SITACon: SITACon was the First anime (Japanese animation) convention in the Central New York area, debuting in 2006. The convention is planned and prepared by a group consisting of university students.


About SITACon Convention Committee: The SITACon Convention Committee started out as an idea by SITAC (SUNY IT Anime Club) and started with members exclusively from the club. After the idea became more of a reality the Committee opened to persons outside of the Anime Club in the interest of bringing a convention to the area.

SITACon2
URL: http://www.sitacon.com
Dates: October 10 ñ 12, 2008

[Amphibianbeast]

I`m waiting on info for conventions coming to florida along with some game shows

[Ranma4699]

Convention Schedule:

Con Nooga
February 22-24, 2008
Chattanooga Choo Choo Holiday Inn Chattanooga, TN

Kei-kon
February 22-24, 2008
University of Victoria, MacLaurin Building Victoria, British Columbia

Japan Addict
February 23-24, 2008
Palais des Fêtes Strasbourg, France

Anime Milwaukee
February 29 - March 2, 2008
UW Milwaukee Milwaukee, WI

Minami Con
February 29 - March 2, 2008
Novotel Hotel Southampton, UK

Neo Nohcon
March 7-8, 2008
Daemen College Amherst, NY

Animaritime
March 7-9, 2008
The Delta Beauséjour Moncton, New Brunswick

MegaCon
March 7-9, 2008
Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL

Hana*con
March 8, 2008
Jenks West Intermediate Gym Jenks, OK

Nishikaze
March 8, 2008
University of Lethbridge (Anderson Hall) Lethbridge, Alberta

S.A.V.E. Konvention
March 8-9, 2008
Tarleton State University Stephenville, TX

Anime Oasis
March 13-16, 2008
Boise Airport Holiday Inn Boise, ID

Anime Wasabi
March 14-16, 2008
Holiday Inn Denver International Airport Denver, CO

FITcon
March 14-16, 2008
Florida Institute of Technology Melbourne, FL

MomoCon
March 15-16, 2008
Georgia Tech Student Center Atlanta, GA

Toronto AnimeCon
March 15-16, 2008
Metro Toronto Convention Centre Toronto, Ontario

Wizard World Los Angeles
March 16-18, 2008
Los Angeles Convention Center Los Angeles, CA

Anime Boston
March 21-23, 2008
Hynes Convention Center Boston, MA

Anime Express
March 21-23, 2008
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Daytona Beach, FL

Anime Matsuri
March 21-23, 2008
The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center The Woodlands, TX

AniZona Cancelled
March 21-23, 2008
Wigwam Resort Litchfield Park, AZ

Seito ChibiCon
March 22, 2008
Branham High School San Jose, CA

Tokyo International Anime Fair
March 27-30, 2008
Tokyo Big Sight Tokyo, Japan

Anime St. Louis
March 28-30, 2008
Holiday Inn St. Louis-Southwest Viking St. Louis, MO

Conbust
March 28-30, 2008
Smith College (Seelye Hall) Northampton, MA

JAMPcon
March 28-30, 2008
Chattanooga Choo Choo Holiday Inn Chattanooga, TN

Naruto Trek Convention
March 28-30, 2008
Sheraton Suites Cypress Creek Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Sakura-Con
March 28-30, 2008
Washington State Convention & Trade Center Seattle, WA

Supanova Pop Culture Expo
March 28-30, 2008
Melbourne Showgrounds Melbourne, VIC Australia

Animarathon
March 29, 2008
Bowling Green State University Bowling Green, OH

ConTopia
March 29-30, 2008
Wolkenburg 100 Wuppertal, Germany

Anime Detour
April 4-6, 2008
Ramada Mall of America Bloomington, MN

I-Con
April 4-6, 2008
SUNY Stony Brook Stony Brook, NY

Supanova Pop Culture Expo
April 4-6, 2008
RNA Showgrounds Brisbane, QLD Australia

ChibiFest
April 5, 2008
Whitney Library Concert Hall Las Vegas, NV

FreeCon
April 5-6, 2008
Florida State University Student Services Building Tallahassee, FL

The Asian Karaoke Idol Invitational
April 5-6, 2008
The Rotunda Philadelphia, PA

Anime Punch!
April 11-13, 2008
Crowne Plaza Columbus North Columbus, OH

J-Junk
April 11-13, 2008
Jugendzentrum Anne-Frank Groß-Gerau, Germany

Tekkoshocon
April 11-13, 2008
Radisson Hotel Pittsburgh Green Tree Pittsburgh, PA

UBCon
April 11-13, 2008
University of Buffalo, North Campus Buffalo, NY

O-Conn
April 12, 2008
O'Connor High School Helotes, TX

Castle Point Anime Convention
April 13, 2008
Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken, NJ

Kawaii Kon
April 18-20, 2008
Hawaii Convention Center Honolulu, HI

New York Comic Con
April 18-20, 2008
Jacob K. Javits Center New York, NY

No Brand Con
April 18-20, 2008
Ramada Inn Convention Center Eau Claire, WI

Armageddon Expo Wellington
April 19-20, 2008
TSB Bank Arena Wellington, New Zealand

Shinboku Con
April 20, 2008
Lorain County Community College Elyria, OH

Middle Tennessee Anime Convention
April 25-27, 2008
Sheraton Music City Nashville, TN

Costume-Con
April 25-28, 2008
DoubleTree Hotel San Jose San Jose, CA

Minifest
April 26, 2008
University of Melbourne, Parkville Campus Melbourne, VIC Australia

Tora-Con
April 26, 2008
Rochester Institute of Technology Rochester, NY

Armageddon Expo Christchurch
April 26-27, 2008
Christchurch Convention Centre Christchurch, New Zealand

Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo
April 26-27, 2008
Calgary Stampede Exhibition Grounds Calgary, Alberta

Armageddon Expo Australia
May 3-4, 2008
The Big Top, Luna Park Sydney, Australia

Hanami
May 3-4, 2008
Kulturzentrum Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany

Anime Central
May 16-18, 2008
Hyatt Regency O'Hare / Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Rosemont, IL

Delta H Con
May 16-18, 2008
University of Houston, University Center Houston, TX

JACON
May 16-18, 2008
Orlando Sun Resort Orlando, FL

Otafest
May 16-18, 2008
University of Calgary Calgary, Alberta

Zakyou-con
May 16-18, 2008
Eastern Kentucky University Richmond, KY

Animazement
May 23-25, 2008
Sheraton Imperial Hotel and Convention Center Durham, NC

Anime North
May 23-25, 2008
Doubletree International Plaza Hotel, Toronto Congress Center, Renaissance Toronto Airport Hotel Toronto, Ontario

Florida Supercon
May 23-25, 2008
Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Weston, FL

FanimeCon
May 23-26, 2008
San Jose McEnery Convention Center San Jose, CA

Arkansas Anime Festival
May 24, 2008
Holiday Inn Northwest Arkansas Springdale, AR

London Movie Comic & Media Expo
May 24-25, 2008
ExCeL Convention Centre, Royal Victoria Dock London, UK

Saboten-Con
May 24-26, 2008
Crowne Plaza Phoenix Phoenix, AZ

A-Kon
May 30 - June 1, 2008
Adam's Mark Hotel Dallas, TX

Wizard World Philadelphia
May 30 - June 1, 2008
Philadelphia Convention Center Philadelphia, PA

OMG!!con
June 6-8, 2008
JR's Executive Inn Riverfront Paducah, KY

Otaku Omaha
June 6-8, 2008
Carlisle Hotel Omaha Omaha, NE

Anime Mid-Atlantic
June 13-15, 2008
Holiday Inn Executive Center Virginia Beach, VA

AnimeNEXT
June 20-22, 2008
Meadowlands Exposition Center / Holiday Inn Secaucus, NJ

Supanova Pop Culture Expo
June 20-22, 2008
Sydney Olympic Park Sydney, NSW Australia

Yaoi Jamboree
June 20-22, 2008
Renaissance Phoenix-Glendale Hotel Glendale, AZ

TFcon Toronto
June 21, 2008
Doubletree International Plaza Hotel Toronto Airport Toronto, Ontario

Cleveland Colossal Convention
June 26-29, 2008
Hilton Cleveland East / Beachwood Beachwood, OH

Wizard World Chicago
June 26-29, 2008
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Rosemont, IL

Supanova Pop Culture Expo
June 27-29, 2008
Claremont Showground Perth, WA Australia

Northern Anime Festival
June 28-29, 2008
Durham College, UOIT Oshawa Campus Oshawa, Ontario

Anime Expo
July 3-6, 2008
Los Angeles Convention Center Los Angeles, CA

PortConMaine
July 3-6, 2008
Eastland Park Hotel Portland, ME

AniMix
July 18-20, 2008
Plaza Hotel and Conference Center Killeen, TX

Daigacon
July 18-20, 2008
Holiday Inn University Plaza Bowling Green, KY

Ikasucon
July 18-20, 2008
Grand Wayne Convention Center Fort Wayne, IN

Metrocon
July 18-20, 2008
Tampa Convention Center Tampa, FL

Comic-Con International: San Diego
July 24-27, 2008
San Diego Convention Center San Diego, CA

Ai-Kon
July 25-27, 2008
Winnipeg Convention Centre Winnipeg, Manitoba

MACOnvention
July 25-27, 2008
Kuernberghalle Leonding, Austria

Tokonatsu
July 25-28, 2008
Ampthill & Woburn District Scout Ground Milton Bryan, UK

Otakuthon
July 26-27, 2008
Palais des congrès Montreal, Quebec

ConnectiCon
August 1-3, 2008
Connecticut Convention Center Hartford, CT

Convencion Avalancha
August 1-3, 2008
Caracas, Venezuela

Fandemonium
August 1-3, 2008
Nampa Civic Center Nampa, ID

Kakkoi|con
August 1-3, 2008
Sheraton Bloomington Minneapolis, MN

MechaCon
August 1-3, 2008
Hilton Lafayette Lafayette, LA

Tokyo In Tulsa
August 1-3, 2008
Crowne Plaza Hotel Tulsa Tulsa, OK

Yasumicon
August 1-3, 2008
Florida International University, South Campus Miami, FL

Auto Assembly
August 2, 2008
The Clarendon Suites Birmingham, UK

Ani-Jam
August 2-3, 2008
Radisson Hotel & Conference Center Fresno, CA

MahouCon
August 8-10, 2008
Hotel Huntington Beach Huntington Beach, CA

Otakon
August 8-10, 2008
Baltimore Convention Center Baltimore, MD

San Japan
August 8-10, 2008
San Antonio Municipal Auditorium San Antonio, TX

JAMMCon Cancelled
August 9, 2008
Port Huron, MI

Kin-Yoobi Con
August 9, 2008
Chabot College Hayward, CA

Gen Con Indy
August 14-17, 2008
Indiana Convention Center Indianapolis, IN

Anime Festival Orlando
August 15-17, 2008
Wyndham Orlando Resort Orlando, FL

Anime Festival Wichita
August 15-17, 2008
Best Western Wichita North Hotel & Suites Wichita, KS

AnimeIowa
August 15-17, 2008
Coralville Marriott Hotel & Conference Center Coralville, IA

Anime Evolution
August 22-24, 2008
Simon Fraser University (Burnaby Campus) Burnaby, British Columbia

CN Anime / Fan Expo Canada
August 22-24, 2008
Metro Toronto Convention Centre Toronto, Ontario

MatsuriCon
August 22-24, 2008
Holiday Inn Columbus-Worthington Worthington, OH

AnimeFest
August 29 - September 1, 2008
Dallas, TX

Dragon*Con
August 29 - September 1, 2008
Atlanta Marriott Marquis, Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Atlanta Hilton Atlanta, GA

Anime Vegas
August 30 - September 1, 2008
Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel Las Vegas, NV

Kumoricon
August 30 - September 1, 2008
Doulbetree Portland-Lloyd Center Portland, OR

Alcon
September 5-7, 2008
De Montfort University Leicester, UK

T-MODE
September 5-7, 2008
Hilton Crystal City Arlington, VA

Connichi
September 12-14, 2008
Kongress Palais Kassel Kassel, Germany

Nan Desu Kan
September 12-14, 2008
Marriott Denver Tech Center Denver, CO

New York Anime Festival
September 12-14, 2008
Jacob K. Javits Center New York, NY

Anime Weekend Atlanta
September 19-21, 2008
Renaissance Waverly Hotel & Cobb Galleria Centre Atlanta, GA

MikomiCon
September 19-21, 2008
California State University Northridge Northridge, CA

Chibicon
September 20-21, 2008
Assembly Rooms Derby, UK

Manifest
September 26-28, 2008
University of Melbourne, Parkville Campus Melbourne, VIC Australia

Sogen Con
September 26-28, 2008
Sheraton Sioux Falls & Convention Center Sioux Falls, SD

Tsubasacon
September 26-28, 2008
Riverfront Ballroom & Conference Center Huntington, WV

Aurora-Con
September 27-28, 2008
William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center Anchorage, AK

Chibi-Pa
September 27-28, 2008
Palm Beach County Convention Center West Palm Beach, FL

Providence Anime Conference
October 3-5, 2008
Rhode Island Convention Center Providence, RI

Shimakon
October 3-5, 2008
South Padre Island, TX

BlizzCon
October 10-11, 2008
Anaheim Convention Center Anaheim, CA

Anime USA
October 10-12, 2008
Hyatt Regency Crystal City Arlington, VA

Zenkaikon
October 17-18, 2008
Valley Forge Scanticon Hotel and Conference Center King of Prussia, PA

Anime X Gamer Experience
October 17-19, 2008
Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village St. Augustine, FL

Another Anime Convention
October 17-19, 2008
Radisson Hotel Nashua Nashua, NH

Anime Banzai
October 24-25, 2008
Sheraton City Centre Hotel Salt Lake City, UT

Bakuretsu Con
October 24-26, 2008
Hampton Inn Colchester, VT

Armageddon Pulp Expo
October 25-27, 2008
Aotea Centre Auckland, New Zealand

Youmacon
October 30 - November 2, 2008
Hyatt Regency Dearborn Dearborn, MI

SugoiCon
October 31 - November 2, 2008
Drawbridge Inn Ft. Mitchell, KY

Armageddon Expo Australia
November 1-2, 2008
Melbourne Exhibition Centre Melbourne, Australia

Anime Supercon
November 7-9, 2008
Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Weston, FL

Nekocon
November 7-9, 2008
Hampton Roads Convention Center Hampton, VA

Wizard World Texas
November 7-9, 2008
Arlington Convention Center Dallas, TX

JaniCon
November 21-23, 2008 Hyatt Regency Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL

New England Fan Experience
November 21-23, 2008
Hyatt Regency Cambridge Cambridge, MA

Shichimencho Postponed
November 28-30, 2008
Holiday Inn Boise Airport Boise, ID

[Ranma4699]

Here u go Amp. All the Florida Anime Conventions u can go to.

http://www.megaconvention.com/

http://www.fitcon.net/

http://clubs.db.erau.edu/dbanime/Conventionmain.html

http://www.narutotrek.com/

http://www.tallahasseeanime.com/freecon/

http://www.jacon.org/

http://www.floridasupercon.com/

http://www.metroconventions.com/

http://www.yasumicon.com/

http://www.animefestivalorlando.com/

http://www.chibipa.com/

http://www.projectexp.org/

http://www.animesupercon.com/

http://www.janicon.org/

LOL AMP have fun on picking which one you will be attending. Lucky guy u all those cons to choose from and I only get 1 to go 2 in boston. Its not fair lol.

[Ranma4699]

Anime X Gamer Experience announced for St. Augustine, Florida
New Anime and Gaming Convention to Debut October 2008 in St. Augustine, Florida.

Jacksonville, FL, February 21, 2008: Forget everything you have come to expect from Anime and Gaming conventions. October 17-19 at the Renaissance Resort at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida a new breed of convention will arrive. Anime X Gamer Experience or 'EXP con' as it has been dubbed by the fans will focus on the Fan Experience and energy level through this year's theme: Rock Star Mentality.

Keeping true to the our goal of creating a new, unique, and exciting Experience for the fans we are incorporating a plethora of fresh new ideas to go along with the staples that you've come to know and love. With events such as the Cosplay Rock Band Showdown, America's Next Top Cosplayer, EXP Fan's Choice Awards, the Anime X Gamer Night Live sketch comedy performance, and a Cosplay Café which changes themes on a daily basis, we are confident that we can give our attendees an unforgettable experience.

Inspired by the conventions in the South East, the EXP staff gathered together to bring their own take on conventions to the North Florida area. "When I was searching for venues I never in my wildest dreams imagined we'd end up at the World Golf Renaissance." commented Rayne Sweat, Convention Chairman. "The venue is amazing, and with the 40,000 sq. ft of meeting space we are going to be able to do some great things here." As well as the large convention area, the World Golf Village will be showing Anime screenings at their IMAX theater for EXP guests who pre-register at the higher levels, as well as providing a fireworks show for a Japanese Festival-like experience.

Continuing the celebration and promotion of Japanese Animation, Manga, and Gaming in America, as well as other facets of Japanese culture Anime X Gamer Experience will strive to create an unforgettable experience for all ages.

The Anime X Gamer Experience Site has been launched! Visit us at Http://www.projectexp.org for information and sign up on the forums to provide feedback that we can use to improve the event.

[Amphibianbeast]

Thanks ranma, i`ll check all of them out, also i like to get some info on game conventions and expos in FL. :)

[Ranma4699]

Ok Amp when I get a chance Ill look these up for u. Knowing how busy florida is there must be a boat load of them

[Ranma4699]

New York Comic Con Selects Newsarama as Media Partner
Digital Newsroom to Provide Live Coverage of the Event and Exclusive Video Features

Norwalk, CT, February 26, 2008: New York Comic Con (NYCC) today announced that it has chosen Newsarama.com, the leading authority for expert commentary and analysis of the global comic book industry, as a media partner and host of this year's official digital newsroom. Newsarama will launch a NYCC news hub featuring a dedicated video player. Fans will be able to view their favorite comic book creators, illustrators, movie producers, directors and actors as they discuss their latest endeavors with the Newsarama team. During the event, Newsarama will conduct exclusive interviews in its skybox studio offering in-depth conversations with the industry's most notable and influential contributors—as well as up-and-coming stars. They will also be canvassing the showroom floor for impromptu interviews, coverage of special events and behind the scenes action.

Expected to be the largest in its history, NYCC will host more than 400 exhibitors, hundreds of artists and over 150 special events. Fans will be among several high-profile celebrity guests attending lively panels and never-before-seen previews and screenings of Hollywood's newest genre films and TV shows. In addition to their on-site video interviews, Newsarama's editorial team will provide unparalleled coverage of breaking news, live panel discussions, and up-to-the-minute commentary.

“We have a ton of great events in store for this year's New York Comic Con and wanted a seasoned media partner that could speak with insight and authority about what's happening in this burgeoning industry,” says Lance Fensterman, Show Manager for NYCC. “Newsarama was a great fit for us - we're excited to offer fans this new online hub for info and details on all the action. This is sure to be the most dynamic New York Comic Con ever.”

“Newsarama is excited to partner with NYCC and offer our readers an opportunity to hear directly from the most influential names in the comic book industry,” says Michael Doran, founder and senior editor of Newsarama. “I think this partnership further demonstrates our commitment to offer comic book enthusiasts even more breaking news, insightful interviews and engaging discussions.”

NYCC will take place April 18 to 20 at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City. For inquiries regarding interview schedules in Newsarama's skybox studio or submitting news announcements for consideration, please contact Matt Ostrower at 212-703-5843 or events@imaginova.com.

###


About New York Comic Con
New York Comic Con (April 18-20 in the Jacob K. Javits Center) is the East Coast's biggest and most exciting popular culture event. An enormous show floor plays host to top entertainment industry leaders showcasing the latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, television, and more. New York Comic Con gives attendees access to top entertainment industry talent, panels, and autograph sessions as well as sneak peeks at upcoming television shows and motion pictures. And with dedicated professional hours, New York Comic Con provides an ideal business setting for the major players in the worlds of comics, film, and television. Further information can be found at www.newyorkcomiccon.com.

About Reed Exhibitions
Reed Exhibitions is the world's leading events organizer. In 2007 Reed brought together over six million industry professionals from around the world generating billions of dollars in business. Today Reed events are held in 38 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, and organized by 39 fully staffed offices.

Reed organizes a wide range of events, including exhibitions, conferences, congresses and meetings. Its portfolio of over 500 events serves 47 industry sectors, including: Aerospace & aviation, automobiles, building & construction, electronics, energy, engineering, entertainment, environment, food & hospitality, gifts, healthcare, IT, jewelry, life sciences & ***************, property, manufacturing, medical education, packaging & converting, printing & visual communication, security, sports & recreation, travel.

Working closely with professional bodies, trade associations and government departments Reed ensures that each and every event is targeted and relevant to industry needs. As a result, many Reed events are market leaders in their field.

Reed Exhibitions is part of Reed Elsevier Group plc, a FTSE-100 company and world-leading publisher and information provider. In 2006, Reed Elsevier made adjusted profit before taxation of £1,052 million on turnover of £5,398 million.


About Imaginova
Imaginova is a leading digital media and commerce company and the preeminent online destination for the Intellectually Curious. The Imaginova Network of media properties, including LiveScience.com, Space.com, Aviation.com, Newsarama.com and Space News (SpaceNews.com), delivers engaging and entertaining editorial and multimedia content to a robust community of curious and well-informed users. Imaginova's original content is syndicated through major online portals and licensed by educational publishers and institutions. Imaginova is also the premier source of innovative consumer and educational products available at OrionTelescopes.com, LiveScienceStore.com, and StarryNightStore.com. Founded in 1999, Imaginova Corp. is privately held and based in New York City, with offices and news bureaus in Virginia, California, Toronto and Paris. For more information, please visit www.Imaginova.com.

[Ranma4699]

New York Comic Con to Premiere Lucky Star, Code Geass

First screenings of English dubbing during April 18-20 convention

http://tokidoki.animeblogger.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/lucky-star.jpg

The New York Comic Con announced that it will screen Bandai Entertainment's English dubbing of the Lucky Star and Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion anime series for the first time at April 18-20 event. Kyoto Animation's Lucky Star follows the oddball life of an anime/game fangirl with a continuous stream of otaku humor. The Sunrise studio worked with the character designs from the famous manga quartet CLAMP to create Code Geass, a military robot drama with a heavy emphasis on character pathos and political intrigue.

The Adult Swim network plans to start running Code Geass later this spring. Bandai Entertainment and Kadokawa Pictures USA will release the first Lucky Star DVD on May 6.

[Ranma4699]

FITcon - "Florida's Biggest Little Anime Convention" - Returns for a Third Year to the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, FL
This year's event will be headlined by voice actress Michele Knotz, “Misty”
& “Jesse” from the phenomenally popular anime Pokémon.

MELBOURNE, FL, MARCH 3, 2008: The Anime Club at Florida Tech is proud to
present FITcon – “Florida's biggest little anime convention” the weekend of
March 14-18, 2008 on the campus of the Florida Institute of Technology in
Melbourne, Florida. This will be the club's third convention at F.I.T. in
five years.

This year's guests include:

Michelle Knotz – Born in New Jersey, she studied acting at DeSales
University in Center Valley, Pennsylvania before transferring to study
television and radio production at Marywood University in Scranton,
Pennsylvania. Knotz was the winner of the 2003 Anime Idol voice acting
contest held at the now defunct Big Apple Anime Fest convention in New York
City and debuted in the role of Hajime Yagi in The World of Narue. As of
2007, she plays Team Rocket's Jessie as well as the voices of Misty, May,
Nurse Joy and Ash Ketchum's mother Delia in the Pokémon USA/TAJ Productions
English dub of the Pokémon anime meta series. This is Michelle's first
appearance in Florida!

AARON PABON - (From Aaron's MySpace) "Unlike many comics doing there stand
up at comic venues and clubs, I do mine at comic book cons, anime cons, or
venues of that matter. I mostly did stand up in high school making fun of my
high school and doing smalltime stand up on the amateur circuit. The reason
for only doing conventions was that one day I said to my self “I've never
seen comedians at cons” and then a year later I was making fun of Narutards
and my experiences at conventions and I made a last minute debut at
Yasumicon. And that's the story."

JOEY SNACKPANTS - (From JoeySnackpants.com) "The pilot of the greatest
robot of our time - Snackforce Prime! Lead guitarist and front man for the
glam/emo/punk band Snackforce 5!!! Popular internet anime blogger! Extreme
sports star! Jungle Cruise Skipper! Polarizing opinionated popular culture
pundit! Joey Snackpants, Esq. is all this... and so much more. What began
as hobby in the 80's has gotten him thrown out of college “Jeopardy!” try
outs, lambasted in both print and digital media, called a raving lunatic as
well as a modern day Socrates Johnson and given him a soapbox at events from
Los Angeles to Atlanta. Now through the magical power of the tubes (known
to many as ‘the internet’) he brings his insight to you as only he can!
Agree or disagree; love or hate; Kirk or Picard; Batman or Superman; Macross
or Gundam; he's here, he's got a podcast, and he's not afraid to use it!"

FITcon also has plans for all the staple events of the larger anime
conventions, but on a smaller scale. This includes an anime music video
contest, cosplay contest, panels, and a dance party. A single day pass to
the event is $10, with weekend passes gong for $25. For more details,
please visit the conventions official website at www.fitcon.net.

[Ranma4699]

ICv2 Announces 2008 Graphic Novel Conference at New York Comic Con
Breaking News, Critical Topics, Top Panelists!

March 3, 2008. Pop culture publishing and consulting company ICv2 has announced that it will host its signature ICv2 Graphic Novel Conference in association with New York Comic Con. The third annual ICv2 Graphic Novel Conference -- "Breaking Out" will be held from 1-5 p.m. on Thursday, April 17th, at the Javits Center in New York.

The graphic novel phenomenon is sweeping publishing, with growing impacts on movies, TV, and licensing. As graphic novels break out of a niche category and into the mainstream, new challenges and opportunities confront the market. Join the key players in the industry as they discuss this rapidly changing landscape.

ICv2 will present its annual Graphic Novel White Paper, including its 2007 graphic novel market size estimate revealed at this event for the first time, detailed analysis of the 2007 trends, and the outlook for 2008.

Panel topics include “Graphic Novels for Tweens,” which will focus on the fast-growing tween market for graphic novels; and “The Battle for Talent,” moderated by Publishers Weekly senior news editor Calvin Reid, which will focus on how changes in graphic novel rights deals are affecting what gets published, and how. Key buyers will talk about the most important trends in the business and what to expect in the future in “Buyers Panel—The Next Three Years”

Confirmed panelists include graphic novel buyers from the chain bookstore, comic store, wholesaler, library, and special channels; top publishing executives; agents specializing in the graphic novel space, experts from the library and educational markets; and more.

Key buyers scheduled as panelists, with more to be added, include Jeff Ayers of Forbidden Planet New York, Alison Hendon of Brooklyn Public Library, Jim Killen of Barnes and Noble, Ed Masessa of Scholastic Book Fairs, and Bill Schanes of Diamond Comic Distributors.

Publisher and editor panelists include Dan Buckley of Marvel, Liza Coppola of Viz, Mike Kiley of Tokyopop, Betsy Mitchell of Del Rey Books, and Mark Siegel of First Second. Literary agents Judy Hansen and Bob Mecoy will also participate.

ICv2 President Milton Griepp described the changes for this year's event. “As always, we're trying to focus on the issues that are driving change in the market,” he said. “The whole tween market is an area of increasing focus, and we're going to explore how manga and a few American titles have really taken off in this market and what it means for the future. We'll also be taking a look at how the changing rights scene is transforming the whole business of graphic novels. And underlying it all will be our discussion of how the incredible growth in this category can be sustained.”

The event will wrap up with the Transcontinental Printing Cocktail Party at 5 p.m., a chance to meet, mingle, and chat with the key players in the graphic novel industry.

Three sponsors have signed on to support this important event for the future of graphic novels: Viz Media, LLC; Transcontinental Printing; and Publishers Weekly. “We feel this event makes an important contribution to the graphic novel industry,” Griepp said, “and we wouldn't be able to pull it off without our sponsors' continuing support. Our thanks goes out to them.”

Tickets for the ICv2 Graphic Novel Conference are now on sale at the New York Comic Con Website: http://www.nycomiccon.com/icv2

For more information on the ICv2 Graphic Novel Conference, go to:
http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/11989.html

For a full list and more information on the panelists at the ICv2 Graphic Novel Conference, go to: http://www.icv2.com/articles/home/12143.html

ICv2
ICv2 is the undisputed expert in the graphic novel field and covers pop culture in the anime, comics, games, toys, and movie and TV merchandise categories daily on its Website, ICv2.com, and in its magazine, the ICv2 Guide. ICv2 also provides consulting services to companies involved in the business of pop culture.

New York Comic Con
New York Comic Con is operated by Reed Exhibitions which is the world's leading events organizer. In 2006 Reed brought together over six million industry professions from around the world generating billions of dollars in business. Today Reed events are held in 34 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, and organized by 37 fully staffed offices. Reed organizes a wide range of events, including exhibitions, conferences, congresses and meetings. Its portfolio of over 460 events serves 52 industry sectors, including: Aerospace and defense, building and construction, design, electronics, energy, oil and gas, entertainment, food and hospitality, gifts, healthcare, IT/telecoms, jewelry, manufacturing, marketing and business services, ***************, property, publishing, security, sport and recreation, transport and logistics, travel. Working closely with professional bodies, trade associations and government departments Reed ensures that each and every event is targeted and relevant to industry needs. As a result, many Reed events are market leaders in their field.

Reed Exhibitions is part of Reed Elsevier Group plc, a FTSE-100 company and worldleading publisher and information provider.

Viz Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Viz Media, LLC (Viz Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan's largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan, Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (Sho-Pro Japan), Viz Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for
English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as Shonen Jump and Shojo Beat, graphic novels, videos, DVDs and audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages.

Transcontinental Printing
Transcontinental is the largest printer in Canada and seventh in North America, and is also the country's leading consumer magazine publisher and second largest community newspaper publisher. From mass to highly personalized marketing, the company offers its clients integrated solutions which also include a diverse digital platform and a door-to-door distribution network of advertising material. Transcontinental is a company whose values, including respect, innovation and integrity, are central to its operation. Transcontinental (TSX: TCL.SV.A, TCL.MV.B) has more than 14,000 employees in Canada, the United States and Mexico, and reported revenues of C$2.2 billion (US $1.9 billion) in 2005.

Publishers Weekly
Publishers Weekly is the leading publication serving all segments involved in the creation, production, marketing and sale of the written word in book, audio, video and electronic formats. It is the prime source of comprehensive news and provides unique industry data including an annotated bestseller list, hot deals and retail news. A 134-year old magazine -- with over 100,000 dedicated readers -- PW is recognized as the leading publication for international and U.S. book publishing needs. PW's Website, PublishersWeekly.com is packed with great information from the hottest industry news to book reviews to the popular e-newsletters and much more.

[Ranma4699]

New York Comic Con Artist Alley Announced

HUNDREDS OF COMIC LEGENDS AND
Rising! STARS APPEAR AT NYCC

Norwalk, CT, March 6, 2008: The New York Comic Con (NYCC) today revealed the complete roster of the comic book legends, luminaries, and Rising! stars who'll appear in its 2008 Artist Alley. The 2008 New York Comic Con takes place April 18-20 at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City and features Guests of Honor including Mike Mignola, Grant Morrison, and T.M. Revolution.

Artist Alley is a division of NYCC's Exhibition Hall reserved for comic book and pop culture creators -- both legendary as well as emerging -- and is a unique arena that allows for creators and fans to personally interact. Highlights from New York Comic Con's Artist Alley include Mark Buckingham, C.B. Cebulski, Colleen Doran, Danny Fingeroth, Keith Giffen, Bob Layton, Jim Lee, Rob Liefeld, Monte Moore, Rags Morales, John Romita, Jr., Jim Shooter, and Jim Valentino.

"Everything we do at New York Comic Con is about experience," Show Manager Lance Fensterman said. "While the show is only three days in April, we endeavor to create something that'll remain for a lifetime in memory, and out of everything we're planning, it's the talent and interaction in Artist Alley that may be many attendees' favorite memory."

New York Comic Con 2008's Artist Alley is the result of months of work from NYCC's team and also one of NYCC's most-asked-about attractions. The complete listing is available now at newyorkcomiccon.com and also appears below…

NEW YORK COMIC CON 2008 ARTIST ALLEY


Bob Almond
Franco Aureliani
D1ck Ayers
Michael Bair
Matt "Batt" Banning
Jason Baroody
Chris Batista
Carolyn Belefski
Steve Belledin
Dan Berger
Rich Bernatovech
Simone Bianchi
Jake Black
Greg Blazer
Anna Warren Boersig
Jon Bogdanove
Ken Branch
Ivan Brandon
Mark Brooks
Charles Brown
Mark Buckingham
Rich Buckler
BUZZ
James Campbell
Nick Cardy
Joshua Carter
John Cebollero
C.B. Cebulski
Justin "Spanky" Cermak
Phillip Chan
Jeff Chandler
Bernard Chang
Sean Chen
Cliff Chiang
Dan Chichester
Kari Christensen
Lawrence Christmas
Tom Chu
Matthew Clark
Phillip Clarke
Classic Comics Press
Olivier Coipel
Eugene Commodore
Amanda Conner
Darwyn Cooke
Dan Cooney
Ed Counts
Molly Crabapple Illustration
Wes Craig
Carlos d'Anda
Peter David
Albert Debnam
Nelson DeCastro
Todd Dezago
Marko Djurdjevic
Michael Dolce
Derec Donovan
Michael Dooney
Colleen Doran
Dale Eaglesham
Tommy Lee Edwards
Steve Ellis
Steve Epting
Mark Evanier
Jesse Farrell
Ray Felix
Will Finan
David Finch
Michael Finger
Danny Fingeroth
Ramona Fradon
Gary Friedrich
Jose Luis Garcia Lopez
Ron Garney
Michael Gaydos
Randy Gentile
Keith Giffen
Sam Girdich
Basil Gogos
Dan Goldman
Dan Goodsell
Trevor Goring
Keron Grant
Michael Grassia
Scott Grimando
Geoff Grogan
Peter Gross
Yvel Guichet
Brad Guigar
Wesley Gunn
Brian Haberlin
Carissa Halston
Ryusuke Hamamoto
Craig Hamilton
Scott Hanna
Jesse Hansen
Fred Harper
Dean Haspiel
Lewis Helfand
Clayton Henry
Janet Hetherington
David Hillman
Bryan Hitch
Greg Horn
Richard Howell
Mike Huddleson
Jamal Igle
Phil Jimenez
Geoff Johns
Veronica Jones
JG Jones
Veronica Jones
Kris Justice
Paul Michael Kane
Eric Kayser
Joe Kelly
Carl Kent
Karl Kerschl
Barbara Kesel
Danny Kimanyen
J.J. Kirby
Blair Kitchen
Douglas Klauba
Chirstopher Knowles
Jim Kyle
Andy Lanning
Serge LaPointe
Bob Larkin
Steve Lavigne
Jim Lawson
Bob Layton
Jim Lee
Fred Van Lente
John Paul Leon
Tim Leong
Rob Liefeld
Mike Lilly
Lisa Lin
John Livesay
Mike Lopez
Aaron Lopresti
John Lucas
Julian Lytle
Kevin Maguire
Jason Martin
Ron Marz
Jason McKee
Mike McKone
Frank McLaughlin
Bob McLeod
Steve McNiven
Jason Millet
Welson Miu
Richard Molinelli
Christian Montalvo
Steve Montano
David Montoya
Monte Moore
Mark Morales
Rags Morales
Alex Morrissey
Patricia Mulvihill
Steve Murphy
David Nakayama
Daniel Narkrosis
Todd Nauk
Shaun Noel
Dan Nokes
Oliver Nome
Steve Noppenberger Steven O'Connell
Michaal Avon Oeming
Ken Okabayashi
Denny O'Neal
Joshua Ortega
Jean Claude Padilla
Jimmy Palmiotti
Yanick Paquette
Dan Parent
Andrew Pepoy
Marcos Perez
Khoi Pham
Caleb Prochnow
David Quiles
Rodney Ramos
Tom Raney
Jon Reed
Robert Reilly
Ivan Reis
Michael Renzine
Dan. H. Richards
PAOLO Rivera
Martin Robaszewski Andrew Robinson
John Romita, Jr
Shane Rooks
Craig Rousseau
Stephane Roux
Josef Rubinstein
Steve Rude
Michael Ryan
Mark Sable
Steve Sadowski
Daniel Salgo
Alex Saviuk
David Seidman
Dave Shelton
Jim Shooter
Ryan Sias
Joe Simon
Walter Simonson
Louise Simonson
Joe Sinnott
Louis Small
Timothy Smith
Tom Smith
Sérgio Solero
Christian Spollen
Joe Staton
Christina Strain
Ron Sutton
Arthur Suydam
Jonathan Syphax
Craig Taillefer
Eric Talbot
Billy Tan
Mark Texiera
Art Thibert
Andie Tong
Willard Torres
Gia-Bio Tran
Steve Uy
Tom Valenti
Jim Valentino
Fred Van Lente
Ethan Van Sciver
Ceasar Vargas
Samuel Vera
Dexter Vines
Peter Vinton
Steve Walker
Emily Warren
Lee Weeks
Graig Weich
Graig Weich
Scott Weinstein
Scott Weinstein
Chris Weston
Renee Whittersatter
Bob Wiacek
Keith Williams
Ven Yann

ABOUT NEW YORK COMIC CON:
New York Comic Con is the East Coast's biggest and most exciting popular culture convention. Our show floor plays host to the latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, and television. Our panels and autograph sessions give fans a chance to interact with their favorite creators. Our screening rooms feature sneak peeks at films and television shows months before they hit either big or small screens. And with dedicated professional hours, New York Comic Con is a market place, bringing together the major players in the entertainment industry. New York Comic Con is the second largest pop culture convention in America and the only one that takes place in the comic book, publishing, media, and licensing capital of the world -- Gotham City. Further information can be found at newyorkcomiccon.com.

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Jacon - Florida's Most Successful Anime Convention - Returns for Its Ninth Year to a New Location, with New Events and New Guests

The event has moved to the Orlando Sun Resort in order to accommodate the need for more space for its attendees.

Orlando, FL, March 6, 2008: JACON 2008 will take place at the Orlando Sun Resort the weekend of May 16-18, 2008. This will mark JACON's ninth year hosting a celebration of Japanese popular culture and animation in Central Florida. This year's guests include Tara Strong (the voice of "Bubbles" from The Powerpuff Girls,) Gregg Berger (the voice of "Grimlock" from the classic Transformers cartoon,) and Richard Horvitz (the voice of Invader Zim from the cartoon of the same name.)

About the Guests

Tara Strong (Guest of Honor) - Ms. Strong is the voice behind a multitude of Canadian and American animated characters, including main roles in The Rugrats & All Grown Up! as Dil Pickles; The Powerpuff Girls as Bubbles; Ben 10 as Ben Tennyson, Upgrade and Benwolf; The Fairly Odd Parents as Timmy Turner; Teen Titans as Raven; and many others. She has also lent her voice to Japanese animated films such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke, as well several video games, including her work as Elisa & Ursula in Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops and Rikku in Final Fantasy X and its sequel Final Fantasy X-2.

Gregg Berger (Special Guest) - Gregg's voice acting credits spread a wide range of characters in both animation and video games. "Children of the 80s" will know him most notably as the voice of the robotic Tyrannosaurus Rex Grimlock in the classic cartoon The Transformers. He was also the voices of Firefly, Ripcord, & Spirit in the cartoon G.I. Joe. Gregg is also the voice of Garfield's lovable roommate "Odie" in every animated Garfield project to date. His other credits include Jecht in the video game Final Fantasy X and Hunter the Cheetah in the Spyro video game series.

Richard Horvitz (Special Guest) - Richard is most notably the voice of the main character in the cult classic Nickelodeon cartoon Invader Zim, but his work extends far beyond little green men seeking to take over the world. His animation credits include Billy in The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy; Daggett Beaver in The Angry Beavers; and Rodney J. Squirrel in Squirrel Boy. For Japanese animated projects, Mr. Horvitz has done voices for Duel Masters, Zatch Bell!, and Howl's Moving Castle. He was also the original voice of Alpha 5 on the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.

Spike Spencer (Featured Guest) - Spike is the voice of Shinji Ikari from Neon Genesis Evangelion, Papillon from Alchemy Weapon, and has done voice work on Martian Successor Nadesico, Gantz, Spriggan, and Dirty Pair Flash.

Doug Smith (Artist/Voice Actor) - Best known as the voice of Kintaro Oe from Golden Boy, Doug has also done voice work on Case Closed, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Gunsmith Cat's.

GEORGE LOWE (Voice Actor) - George has been coming to JACON since its second year (2001), and every year fans request him back. As the voice if Space Ghost on Space Ghost: Coast to Coast, George's brand of humor and wit has become the stuff of legend in Florida's fan community.

Steve Bennett (Media Guest) - Founder of Studio Ironcat, Steve has worked as an animator in Japan on numerous projects including the Urusei Yatsura TV Series.

ROB GRANITO (Artist Guest of Honor) - Rob Granito, internationally known artist and illustrator, has worked for over 15 years in the fields of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and comic art. His name can be found alongside such companies as Warner Brothers, DC Comics, Disney, MTV, and VH1, where he worked on cartoons and comics as well as book, magazine, and novel covers. Rob's latest work has been on Spiderman and Iron Man or the USPS Stamp Cancellations, Superman: The Women We Love with Noel Neill and Zombies by Chanting Monks Studio.

SELECT START (Musical Guest) - Select START is known for their fusion of video game themes with a classical music sound. They have made appearances on national radio shows and popular conventions, and their first appearance at an anime convention was at JACON 2003.

About the Events
JACON strives hard to work with its partners and local clubs to create new and exciting events for anime and video game fandom. This year is no exception.

ANIMUSICAL IDOL (Presented by Wasabi Anime) - Follow up to the Broadway style show hosted at JACON for the past three years, Wasabi Anime is letting fans take a shot at creating an "Animusical-style" sketch to present to a panel of judges. The winners will be allowed to present their sketch as part of the show Friday evening at the convention. www.Animusical.com

JACON'S GUITAR AND ROCKSTAR COSPLAY COMPETITION - Following the recent surge of popularity in music video games, JACON will be offering a new way to cosplay ("costume play" - perform on stage in costume.) Groups may enter as an individual or as a band to play Guitar Hero III or Rock Band in costume. Entries will be judges on stage performance, costume quality, and skill at the games.

JACON SPRING FLING TENNIS TOURNEY AND PICNIC - Join fellow fans for the Second Annual JACON Spring Fling Tennis Tourney and Picnic and show off your tennis skills while chilling with your friends. and maybe make some new ones! A light-hearted, relaxing Sunday wind-down event, the JACON Spring Fling Tennis Tourney and Picnic is just what it sounds like - a mini tennis tournament with a side of picnic! Play as an anime tennis character, or just come and cheer them on! And this year, they have a real tennis court!

THE MANGA MASQUERADE: ENCHANTED KATAMARI - JACON's formal dance event returns for a third year with a new theme. Join the King and Queen of the Cosmos as they present this prom-style dance event. Formal dress is required, and live music will be provided by JACON's musical guest: Select START Entry to the event is included with your JACON admission.

JACON will also offer the staple events that have made the convention so popular over the years: a costume contest, panels, a video game room (run and operated by Noobie Games,) an all night dance party ("Otaku Insomnia" from Wasabi Anime,) and much more. For complete details, please visit the official website at www.JACON.org.

[Ranma4699]

Yaoi-Con Announces 2008 Event

SAN MATEO, CA, March 5, 2008 -- Yaoi-Con, the premiere Western fan convention dedicated solely to the yaoi genre of Japanese anime and manga, is pleased to announce its eighth annual event, to be held the weekend of September 26-28, 2008 at the Marriott San Mateo-San Francisco Airport hotel in the South San Francisco Bay area.

Created primarily by women for a largely female audience, yaoi (a.k.a. "boy's love") is unique in its exploration of deep bonds and relationships, both platonic and romantic, between male characters. Yaoi works typically contain intense and highly idealized examples of love and romance, as well as characters designed to appeal to a woman's aesthetic sense of masculine beauty. This potent combination is a major factor in the genre's soaring popularity outside Japan, including the United States. In its country of origin, many popular mainstream mangaka, or manga artists, had their start in the genre.

Since its inception, Yaoi-Con has been committed to the promotion and celebration of this unique genre, inviting guests who represent the broad spectrum of art and stories available. This year, the convention is proud to welcome back for her second visit as guest of honor Youka Nitta, one of Japan's most successful and popular yaoi artists. Nitta-sensei is well-known her engaging storylines and meticulous attention to detail, not to mention the overwhelming gorgeousness of her characters and their impeccable fashion sense! Her works range from titillating one-shots, including the popular Casino Lilly, to long-lasting series, such the phenomenal Haru wo Daiteita. More information about Youka Nitta may be found on both Yaoi-Con's Web site (www.yaoicon.com/guests/) and her official Web site (http://youka-nitta.com/).

Yaoi-Con is also proud to feature guests who are active in the industry and who are responsible for propagating the yaoi genre to a ever-widening audience. Industry and other guests will be announced as soon as they are confirmed.

Yaoi-Con is dedicated to provide engaging, one-of-a-kind activities and events for convention attendees. Yaoi-Con 2008 will again feature a 24-hour anime and live-action screening room, a manga library boasting over 1,000 volumes, a game room, yaoi-themed panels and workshops, a Dealers' Room packed full of hard-to-find merchandise, Cosplay and Anime Music Video contests, a fundraising Bishounen (beautiful boy) Auction — Yaoi-con's most popular fund-raising event — and much more

The yaoi genre continues to enjoy a level of popularity that surprises non-fans, but at its core, the yaoi phenomenon is driven by women who appreciate beautiful men who love other beautiful men. The yaoi publishing industry has exploded in the U.S. over the past few years and many exciting new titles are in store for fans in 2008. Yaoi-Con hopes to be a part of this thriving genre for years to come.

For additional information on Yaoi-Con 2008, visit the Web site at http://www.yaoicon.com or contact the Public Relations Chair April Gutierrez at pr@yaoicon.com.

[Ranma4699]

Anime Expo® 2008 & Intermixi Japan Tours Announce: Pre-Registration Grand Prize Getaway to Japan Sweepstakes
A New Way to Experience Japan


Anaheim, California (March 5, 2008) — Want to experience Kyoto? Get wild in
Osaka? See the all that is anime/manga in Tokyo? Attend the Tokyo Anime
Fair? Be part of the Tokyo Game Show? Anime Expo® 2008 and Intermixi Japan
Tours announce the Pre-Registration Grand Prize Getaway to Japan! All
pre-registered attendees who register prior to June 15, 2008 will be
automatically entered. Winners will be announced at Anime Expo® 2008's
Opening Ceremonies July 3, 2008. Anime Expo® 2008 will be held from July
3-6, 2008 at the Los Angeles Convention Center in Los Angeles, CA. More
information can be found on the website www.anime-expo.org
.

Two (2) lucky pre-registered attendees will win an all expense paid trip
(including roundtrip airfare, hotel, excursions, some meals and much more)
courtesy of Intermixi Japan Tours. Winners will be able to choose from the
following seasonal tours (as available):

· Kame Hame Kansai Tour
· Neo Tokyo Tour
· Tokyo Game Show Tour

For full description of tours, please go to www.intermixi.com.

Attendees, Press and Industry Members are also encouraged to view the video
coverage site of the 2007 convention at www.AXBackstage.org.

About Anime Expo®
Located in Los Angeles, California - Anime Expo®, the nation's largest
anime/manga convention, serves to foster trade, commerce and the interests
of the general public and animation/ comics industry. This event serves as
a key meeting place for the general public to express their interest and
explore various aspects of anime/manga, as well as for members of the
industry to conduct business. AX 2008 will be held July 3 – July 6, 2008 at
the Los Angeles Convention Center in Southern California. More information
can be found at its website (www.anime-expo.org).

About Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) is a non-profit
organization with a mission to popularize and educate the American public
about anime and manga, as well as provide a forum to facilitate
communication between professionals and fans. This organization is more
popularly known by its entertainment property – Anime Expo®. More
information can be found at its website (www.spja.org
).

About Intermixi Japan Tours
Intermixi Japan Tours have been established to provide both the casual and
intermediate traveler an alternative, pop cultured look at the “land of the
rising sun”. While not ignoring the cultural history of Japan, Intermixi
Japan Tours shows you the side you will never see anywhere else. Intermixi
Japan Tours current yearly schedule will be the summer, fall and winter
season. Please contact for special tour inquiries. More information can be
found at its website (www.intermixi.com)

The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are
"forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are based on
current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and
uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that a
number of important factors could cause Anime Expo®/SPJA's actual future
results to differ materially from those expressed in any such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation,
product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and
industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of
relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers,
international economic and political conditions. The Company may change its
intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon
any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise. The
Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any
forward-looking statements to reflect events or cir***stances after the date
hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

###


PHOTO EDITORS, PLEASE NOTE: Photos are available to the media. Please call
Chase Wang at (310) 869-8030 or send an e-mail to chase@bam-mp.com to
request materials.


CALENDAR EDITORS, PLEASE NOTE:

The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Anime presents Anime Expo® 2008.

WHO: Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
Industry giants
Guests from Japan and the U.S.
Exhibit Hall
Main Events
Concerts
Live Programming
Artist Alley
Screenings
Dances
Arcade
Red & Black Sponsors include: FUNimation and
ImaginAsian TV
Gold Sponsors include: Digital Manga Publishing
Silver Sponsors include: Gaia Online
Patron Sponsors include: COPIC and Central Park
Media

WHAT: Nation's largest 24 Hour anime/manga convention serving over
44,000+ unique attendees in 2007.

WHEN: Thursday, July 3, 2008 through Sunday, July 6, 2008

WHERE: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 South Figueroa Street; Los
Angeles, CA 90015

ADMISSION:

Registration Type Dates Price
Children ages 5 and under Anytime Free
4-Day Child (children ages 6-12) Anytime $30

Early Jan 1st to March 17th
4-Day Attendee $50
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

Regular March 18th to June 1st
4-Day Attendee $55
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

Late June 2nd to July 6th
4-Day Attendee $60
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

At the door* July 3rd to July 6th
4-Day Attendee $65
2-Day Attendee $50
1-Day Attendee $25
*At the door registration refers to badges purchased at the Los Angeles
Convention Center during the convention. Those who choose to register at the
Anime Expo® registration site will be subject to the fees listed in the “At
the door” category. However, online registrations made during the convention
are considered “Late” and will be charged according to the prices listed in
the “Late” category. Please note that you will save $5 by registering
online!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit the Anime Expo® 2008 website at:

http://ww.anime-expo.org or call (310) 869-8030

[Ranma4699]

Weather Buries Neo NohCon

This weekend's event canceled due to snow

The organizers of the Neo NohCon anime convention, scheduled for Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9 in Buffalo, New York, has informed ANN that the convention has been canceled due to the current snowstorm. The snowstorm is expected to dump up to 50 centimeters (20 inches) on the area by the end of the weekend.

Daemon College, where the event was scheduled to take place, canceled the event because the current blizzard conditions were deemed to be too much of a risk for attendees.

Vendors and attendees who pre-registered will be refunded.

"The Daemen College Anime club extends its gratitude to everyone for their understanding. We are by no means finished for all time, we are merely delayed for a little while. Tons of time, effort, money, work, hopes, and dreams went into this convention's third year — these efforts will not be in vain."

In 2003, Arlington, Virginia's Katsucon convention was affected by a snow storm that closed down many major highways in the area. Hundreds of attendees could not leave the hotel in which the convention was held until up two days after it officially concluded. Convention staff and the guests of honor responded by hosting unofficial panels and keeping the video rooms open throughout the next day.

[Ranma4699]

Bandai Visual USA Announces Haruka@Sakura-Con 2008 Details

Torrance, Calif. March 7, 2008 – Celebrating the HARUKA: Beyond the Stream of Time –
A Tale of the Eight Guardians Premier and Director Aki Tsunaki's attendance, Bandai Visual
USA announces the details of HARUKA related events, activities and show exclusives at Sakura-
Con 2008.

Director Tsunaki will be present at the HARUKA events starting with the Industry
Reception Dinner on Thursday, March 27. Schedules for HARUKA related events are as follows:

Thursday, March 27
Industry Reception Dinner 7:00PM – at Place Ballroom

Friday, March 28
Opening Ceremonies 10:00AM – 11:30 AM at room 6ABC
Premier Screening (Vol.1) 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (room TBD)
Guest Reception Dinner 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at Grand Hyatt

Saturday, March 29
Haruka Panel (Q & A) 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at room 611-614
Autograph Session 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM at room 4B
Press Session 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM at room 601

Sunday, March 30
Director Panel 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM at room 611-614
Closing Ceremonies 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM at room 6ABC

For Haruka Panel (Q & A) on March 29, Viz Media manga editor Carol Fox is also
scheduled to take part as well as Director Aki Tsunaki for a discussion on both the anime and
manga incarnations of HARUKA.

Also, authentic reproduction cels made by Yumeta Company, the studio that created the
anime, will be on display and will be first made available for purchase at Sakura-Con 2008 and
will then be sold on dot-anime.us beginning late March. Hand crafted traditional Japanese
animation cels are increasingly becoming a rare collector's item and are available in strictly
limited quantities only. There are nine different designs, eight featuring each of the Eight
Guardians and one more, which feature Akram and Akane.

Along with cels, Bandai Visual USA will also sell advance copies of HARUKA Vol. 1
DVD and the manga Vol.1, published domestically by Viz Media, at the Broccoli/Bandai Visual
Booths #314, 316, 415, and 417. A specially made HARUKA Japanese style fan will be the
exclusive gift for those who purchase HARUKA DVD at Sakura-Con.

For more information on HARUKA DVD please visit our official website at
http://www.bandaivisual.us/haruka/ Torrance, Calif. March 7, 2008 – Celebrating the HARUKA: Beyond the Stream of Time –
A Tale of the Eight Guardians Premier and Director Aki Tsunaki's attendance, Bandai Visual
USA announces the details of HARUKA related events, activities and show exclusives at Sakura-
Con 2008.

Director Tsunaki will be present at the HARUKA events starting with the Industry
Reception Dinner on Thursday, March 27. Schedules for HARUKA related events are as follows:

Thursday, March 27
Industry Reception Dinner 7:00PM – at Place Ballroom

Friday, March 28
Opening Ceremonies 10:00AM – 11:30 AM at room 6ABC
Premier Screening (Vol.1) 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (room TBD)
Guest Reception Dinner 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at Grand Hyatt

Saturday, March 29
Haruka Panel (Q & A) 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at room 611-614
Autograph Session 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM at room 4B
Press Session 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM at room 601

Sunday, March 30
Director Panel 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM at room 611-614
Closing Ceremonies 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM at room 6ABC

For Haruka Panel (Q & A) on March 29, Viz Media manga editor Carol Fox is also
scheduled to take part as well as Director Aki Tsunaki for a discussion on both the anime and
manga incarnations of HARUKA.

Also, authentic reproduction cels made by Yumeta Company, the studio that created the
anime, will be on display and will be first made available for purchase at Sakura-Con 2008 and
will then be sold on dot-anime.us beginning late March. Hand crafted traditional Japanese
animation cels are increasingly becoming a rare collector's item and are available in strictly
limited quantities only. There are nine different designs, eight featuring each of the Eight
Guardians and one more, which feature Akram and Akane.

Along with cels, Bandai Visual USA will also sell advance copies of HARUKA Vol. 1
DVD and the manga Vol.1, published domestically by Viz Media, at the Broccoli/Bandai Visual
Booths #314, 316, 415, and 417. A specially made HARUKA Japanese style fan will be the
exclusive gift for those who purchase HARUKA DVD at Sakura-Con.

For more information on HARUKA DVD please visit our official website at
http://www.bandaivisual.us/haruka/

HARUKA manga, rated T+ (for Older teens) is serialized in Viz Media's Shojo Beat
Magazine reaching over 130,000 readers each month via subscription and on newsstands
nationwide. For more information please visit www.shojobeat.com or www.viz.com.


Bandai Visual USA INC. was established in 2005 as a wholly owned subsidiary of
Bandai Visual co., ltd. with a mission to facilitate stronger, more active involvement in
positioning, marketing and distribution of Bandai Visual programs in North America. From
its base in Torrance, California, Bandai Visual USA seeks to form new alliances and
reinforce existing ties in an effort to strengthen Bandai Visual's international presence as a
producer and content provider in the ever expanding and diversified specialty programs market.

[Ranma4699]

New York Comic Con Hosts Open T.M.Revolution Interview

21 questions fielded from online users for Gundam Seed singer

New York Comic Con is fielding questions online for an interview this weekend with singer T.M.Revolution (Gundam Seed, Rurouni Kenshin, Darker than BLACK, Soul Eater). T.M.Revolution will appear as a musical guest at the April 18-20 event. Peter Tatara, who runs both New York Comic Con and New York Anime Festival, will choose the top 21 questions submitted by 12:00 p.m. ET this Friday and ask T.M.Revolution those questions.

[Ranma4699]

Robotech Convention Tour and Harmony Gold Invade T-MODE '08 for Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles Screening

(March 10, 2008) – Arlington, Virginia, -- Scheduled for September 5-7, 2008, T-MODE '08 is proud to announce that The Robotech Convention Tour makes its debut in the Washington, DC metropolitan area at T-MODE '08.

“We're always looking to bring our attendees the best in programming”, says Lawrence Stuckey, T-MODE Chairman. “The Robotech saga is one of the most dynamic series in anime and having the opportunity to screen this feature animated film is truly an honor”.

In addition to screening Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles, Kevin McKeever of the Harmony Gold production staff will be on hand to discuss the Robotech saga, sponsoring giveaways, and host panels.

Other T-MODE '08 guests include the acclaimed Johnny Yong Bosch, known for his starring voicework as Ichigo on Bleach, Vash in Trigun, Kaneda in Akira, Reiji in Gate Keepers, Claus in Last Exile, Clair in Heatguy-J, Sakaki in Witch Hunter Robin, Mike in Please Twins and Kiba in Wolf's Rain.

Johnny Yong Bosch will also be screening his brand new hit movie Broken Path.
Additional information about registration, events, hotel information and guests can be found at their website: HYPERLINK "http://www.tmode.org" http://www.tmode.org.
T-MODE is an annual anime and gaming convention being held at the Hilton Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia and is dedicated to the expansion of the Asian culture in the United States.

[Ranma4699]

Anime Expo Hosts Pokémon Director Masamitsu Hidaka

Guest has directed Garukiba & Linebarrels of Iron, storyboarded s-CRY-ed

Anime Expo has announced that director Masamitsu Hidaka (Pokémon, Juu Senshi Garukiba, Linebarrels of Iron) will be its first Japanese Guest of Honor at the July 3-6 convention in the Los Angeles Convention Center. Hidaka started out as a storyboarder and assistant director on a number of Sunrise anime, including Dirty Pair, Dragonar, Mashin Eiyuden Wataru 2, and later s-CRY-ed. He eventually landed in the director's chair for Sunrise's Juu Senshi Garukiba and then his most well-known work, Shogakukan's Pokémon. He directed the first Pokémon television series and Pokémon Advance (pictured at right), and he contributed to several of the movie spinoffs.

Hidaka next project will be Linebarrels of Iron, Gonzo animation studio's adaptation of Eiichi Shimizu and Tomohiro Shimoguchi's popular "real battle action robot" manga. The story centers on a middle school boy named Kōichi Hayase who was seriously injured by an apparent accident: the fall of an artificial satellite in 2013. Hayase wakes up half a year later with strange powers. Then, in 2016, a mysterious 21-meter-tall robot named Linebarrel appears before him. Hayase joins Linebarrel's other pilot, Emi Kizaki, in fighting for Juda, the world's largest medical equipment maker which happens to secretly own seven Machina robots like Linebarrel. Hidaka and Gonzo are planning to release this anime later this year.

[Ranma4699]

Anime Expo® 2008 Announces First Japanese Guest of Honor

Nation's Largest Convention Welcomes Famed Pokémon Director

Anaheim, California (March 12, 2008) — Famed director Masamitsu Hidaka is
the first addition to the hottest line up of Anime Expo® 2008 Guests of
Honor for the highly anticipated 2008 convention July 3-6, 2008 at the Los
Angeles Convention Center. More information can be found on the website
www.anime-expo.org .

Mr. Hidaka was led to the world of animation during his job search efforts
after unfortunately loosing his job at an architecture design office in
Fukuoka. Upon discovering his new career path, Mr. Hidaka moved to Tokyo
and began his career as a production runner for an animation studio. Soon
after, Mr. Hidaka made his debut as assistant director in Dirty Pair then
later as the action director and storyboard artist in the OVA KIKO SENKI
Dragonar. Mr. Hidaka was also in charge of action choreography and
storyboards for the notable title MASHIN EIYUUDEN WATARU 2. Mr. Hidaka made
his directorial debut with the animated television series JUU SENSHI
GARUKIBA. Since then Mr. Hidaka has worked on other highly acclaimed titles
including the Pokémon television and theatrical franchise, MOBILE SUIT
GAUNDAM WING (TV), After War Gundam X (TV) and Brave King GaoGaiGar (TV).
Currently, Mr. Hidaka is working as the Director for the highly anticipated
Gonzo television series Linebarrels of Iron.

“I feel very lucky that Gonzo offered me (the opportunity) to direct
Linebarrels of Iron(,) because when they came to me with this title, I was
just looking for a mecha-anime to work on” states Mr. Hidaka. Upon
reflection of his career in animation, Mr. Hidaka states “I was one of those
lucky souls who (was) involved in the production of mecha-anime in the 80's
and 90's when (the) genre was at its prime. Although the trend in today's
anime is character-oriented, I had been asking myself how I would be able to
reassert mecha-anime without compromising marketability. I agreed to work
on Linebarrels of Iron because I saw it as the perfect chance to try doing
just that. I hope to make a cool mecha-anime but add somewhat cute elements
too.”

Attendees, Press and Industry Members are also encouraged to view the video
coverage site of the 2007 convention at www.AXBackstage.org.

About Anime Expo®
Located in Los Angeles, California - Anime Expo®, the nation's largest
anime/manga convention, serves to foster trade, commerce and the interests
of the general public and animation/ comics industry. This event serves as
a key meeting place for the general public to express their interest and
explore various aspects of anime/manga, as well as for members of the
industry to conduct business. AX 2008 will be held July 3 – July 6, 2008 at
the Los Angeles Convention Center in Southern California. More information
can be found at its website (www.anime-expo.org).

About Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) is a non-profit
organization with a mission to popularize and educate the American public
about anime and manga, as well as provide a forum to facilitate
communication between professionals and fans. This organization is more
popularly known by its entertainment property – Anime Expo®. More
information can be found at its website (www.spja.org
).

The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are
"forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are based on
current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and
uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that a
number of important factors could cause Anime Expo®/SPJA's actual future
results to differ materially from those expressed in any such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation,
product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and
industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of
relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers,
international economic and political conditions. The Company may change its
intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon
any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise. The
Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any
forward-looking statements to reflect events or cir***stances after the date
hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

###


PHOTO EDITORS, PLEASE NOTE: Photos are available to the media. Please call
Chase Wang at (310) 869-8030 or send an e-mail to chase@bam-mp.com to
request materials.


CALENDAR EDITORS, PLEASE NOTE:

The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Anime presents Anime Expo® 2008.

WHO: Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
Industry giants
Guests from Japan and the U.S.
Exhibit Hall
Main Events
Concerts
Live Programming
Artist Alley
Screenings
Dances
Arcade
Red & Black Sponsors include: FUNimation and
ImaginAsian TV
Gold Sponsors include: Digital Manga Publishing
Silver Sponsors include: Gaia Online
Patron Sponsors include: COPIC and Central Park
Media

WHAT: Nation's largest 24 Hour anime/manga convention serving over
44,000+ unique attendees in 2007.

WHEN: Thursday, July 3, 2008 through Sunday, July 6, 2008

WHERE: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 South Figueroa Street; Los
Angeles, CA 90015

ADMISSION:

Registration Type Dates Price
Children ages 5 and under Anytime Free
4-Day Child (children ages 6-12) Anytime $30

Early Jan 1st to March 17th
4-Day Attendee $50
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

Regular March 18th to June 1st
4-Day Attendee $55
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

Late June 2nd to July 6th
4-Day Attendee $60
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

At the door* July 3rd to July 6th
4-Day Attendee $65
2-Day Attendee $50
1-Day Attendee $25
*At the door registration refers to badges purchased at the Los Angeles
Convention Center during the convention. Those who choose to register at the
Anime Expo® registration site will be subject to the fees listed in the “At
the door” category. However, online registrations made during the convention
are considered “Late” and will be charged according to the prices listed in
the “Late” category. Please note that you will save $5 by registering
online!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit the Anime Expo® 2008 website at:

http://ww.anime-expo.org or call (310) 869-8030

[Ranma4699]

Anime Matsuri Announces Final Round of Guests

Houston, TX – March 13, 2008 - Anime Matsuri is proud to announce that established voice actors Stephanie Young, Jennifer Sekiguchi, Yuri Lowenthal, Tara Platt, Kate Higgins, and Patrick Seitz.

Stephanie Young is thrilled to be working with Funimation as a voice actress and singer. Her voice acting credits include "Nico Robin" in One Piece (new dub with Funimation), "Junko" in Desert Punk, "Elfriede" in MoonPhase, "Miranda Maverick" in Solty Rei, "Sophia" in Aquarion, "Kagero" in Basilisk, "Oruha" in Tsubasa: RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE, "Nora" in Witchblade, "Paf Shining" in AM Driver, "Karen" in B'tx, "Echidna Parass" in Black Cat, "Nanako" in Crayon Shin-chan, "Mozarella" in Glass Fleet, "Jane" in Grappler Baki Maximum Tournament, "Yahagi" in Mushi-Shi, "Mana" in Negima, "Female Rogue" in Ragnarok, "Dr. Kozuki" in Rumbling Hearts, "Itoko Osakabe" in School Rumble, "Mireille" in Trinity Blood, "Mrs. Tomita" in Kodocha, and "Shika" in Samurai 7. Her game credits include "Fiona" in Spike Out and "Selket" in Unreal Championship II, The Liandri Conflict.

Jennifer Sekiguchi is currently voicing Akira in "Lucky Star." She can be heard as the voices of Mikuru ("The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya"), Orihime ("Bleach"),Hinata ("Naruto"), Eureka ("Eureka 7"), Mamimi ("FLCL"), Guu ("Haré+Guu"), Nanoka ("Koi Kaze"), Kirie ("Girls Bravo), Wendy ("GUNxSWORD"), Penny ("Zatch Bell!"), Aya ("Tenjho Tenge"), Ayu ("Ultra Maniac"), Greta ("Snow Fairy Sugar"), Haidee ("Count of Monte Cristo"), Illya ("Fate, Stay Night), Gemma ("Digi Charat" and "Leave it to Piyoko!"), and many more. Additionally, she has lent her voice to several videogames such as "Grandia III" (Alfina), "Valkerie Profile 2" (Silmeria), "Radiata Stories" (Ridley), "Shadowhearts 2" (Anastasia), "Tales of the Abyss" (Natalia), to name a few. You can also for hear her in the newly released "Devil May Cry 4," "Stranglehold" and "Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles." Jennifer is also honored to have been able to ADR direct "Paradise Kiss."

Yuri Lowenthal is an international theatre performer in addition to his work in voice over. Catch him in the animated features Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo, Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles, and Paprika; as well as playing Superman on Kids WB's new show Legion of Superheroes, Ben on the updated Ben 10, Bobby Drake "Ice Man" in the new animated XMen Series and in Spike TV's Afro Samurai opposite Samuel L. Jackson and Ron Perlman. Yuri's also known for his work in video games, most notably as the titular prince in the best-selling Prince of Persia series as well as his work in Halo2 (ilovebees), Saint's Row and the Final Fantasy series. Anime fans may also know him from series Cartoon Network's #1 show Naruto, RaveMaster, Kyo kara Maoh!, Ergo Proxy, Noein, Code Geass, and more.

Tara Platt has performed internationally from London to New York to Los Angeles in film, TV, animation and theatre. TV credits include: Gilmore Girls, Charmed, The Playbook, One Life to Live, Days Of Our Lives; FILM: Time & Tide, Scarecrow III, The Inevitable Undoing of Jay Brooks, BackSlash. Anime fans may recognize her voice-over work in animated series and features from: Digimon: Island of Lost Digimon, Naruto - Temari, RaveMaster, Tokko, FateStayNight, DearS, Boys Be; VIDEO GAMES: Halo 2 (ilovebees), Tokobots, Final Fantasy XII, Valkyrie Profile: Silmeria. She is currently recording the character of Tokiko on Busou Renkin as well as just recording a character in the new World of Warcraft VG.

Kate Higgins hails from Auburn, Alabama. She graduated from Auburn University with a degree in music and jazz theory, composition, and performance, and sang with that college's nationally acclaimed big band. Kate is an accomplished voiceover artist, actress, and session singer. She became the voice of the Disney Channel soon after moving to Los Angeles, and her voice has been featured in many cartoons such as "Rug Rats", "X-Men", and "Animalia". Kate has also been making a name for herself in the popular world of anime, voicing roles in shows such as "Naruto"(voice of Sakura), "Zatch Bell!", "Eureka Seven"(Voice of Talho), "Scrapped Princess", and many more.


Patrick Seitz is a Los Angeles voiceover actor, script adapter and ADR director who has been fortunate enough to lend his efforts to over 100 anime and video game titles during the last few years. With most of his resume occupying that odd chunk of the Venn diagram where zany, evil, and ethically ambiguous overlap, a few of Patrick's more prominent roles include Franky in FUNImation's One Piece, Isshin Kurosaki in Bleach, George in Paradise Kiss, Hazel in Saiyuki Reload Gunlock, Dhaos in Tales of Phantasia, Raul in Ergo Proxy, Koshiro in Koi Kaze, Charles Beams in Eureka Seven, Lee Linho in R.O.D -The TV-, and Luke Valentine in Hellsing and Hellsing Ultimate.
On the video game side of the ledger, you can hear him as Chopin in Eternal Sonata, Dylan in Valkyrie Profile 2 and Sergei Vladimir in Resident Evil: The Umbrella Chronicles, as well as various and sundry characters in the likes of Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation, Tales of the World: Radiant Mythology, Wild Arms 5, Time Crisis 4, and Romancing Saga, to name a few. In addition to the voiceover work, Patrick has done script-adapting and/or ADR direction for Honey & Clover, Hell Girl, Girls Bravo, Kamichu, Tales of Phantasia, The Melody of Oblivion, Zegapain, Guardian of the Spirit and Rumiko Takahashi Anthology.


If you're a fan of these voice actors or the characters they voice then be sure not to miss out on meeting them at Anime Matsuri 2008.

For more information about our final round of guests or Anime Matsuri 2008 please check out our website at www.animematsuri.com!

About Anime Matsuri: www.animematsuri.com

Anime Matsuri is an annual three day convention held in Houston, Texas. Anime Matsuri is not only an anime convention; it is a celebration of all things Anime. It is the festival of the future. Our goal for Anime Matsuri is to give guests, anime and game fans alike, a new experience in celebrating Japanese culture and anime festivities. Anime Matsuri 2008 will be running March 21-23, 2008 at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center.

Anime Matsuri
URL: http://www.animematsuri.com/index.php
Posted: Wednesday, Marc 13, 2008 at 12:00 PM Central Standard Time
Location: Houston, Texas
Admission: Please see Registration at http://www.animematsuri.com/main.php?s_id=16

[Ranma4699]

Makoto Shinkai's Neko no Shūkai to Compete at Annecy

French festival of animated film to screen Shinkai's most recent short

Neko no Shūkai, the most recent work of independent animator >Makoto Shinkai (Voices of a Distant Star, The Place Promised in Our Early Days, 5 Centimeters Per Second), will be one of 43 films chosen to compete in the short film category at this year's Annecy International Festival and Film Market. It premiered in Japan as part of NHK's Ani-Kuri 15 collection in December. Two other Japanese animated shorts, Shinji Kimura's Attack of Higashi 2-chome and Kumio Kato's Tsumiki no Ie are also competing, along with entries from the United States, France, Russia, Iran, and other countries.

Annecy has not yet announced the official selections for its main Feature Films competition. However, in the TV Series category, the first episode of Kimoshi Chioka's Hataba Kitaro, Frederic Soumagnas' CG-animated Tokyo Punch, and three episodes from Satoshi Tomioka's Usavich will represent Japan. In addition, Production I.G's "Asience: Hairy Tale" short will be screened in the Advertising Films category, and Kazumasa Otsuki's Contrast will be in the competition for the Educational, Scientific, or Industrial Films category.

Annecy, which will be held in the French town of the same name from June 9 to June 14, is considered the world's leading competitive festival for commercial animated film. It has frequently featured anime movies, TV episodes, and shorts in the program. Last year, The Girl Who Leapt through Time was one of the feature film official selections, and it received a special distinction award.

[Ranma4699]

Anime Expo® 2008 Battle of the Bands Call for Entries

New Year … New Bands … New Challenge


Anaheim, California (March 14, 2008) — New Year. New Anime. New Music. New
Bands. New Challenge! Prepare your band for battle as Anime Expo® presents
the Battle of the Bands at this year's Anime Expo® 2008 held from July 3-6,
2008 at the Los Angeles Convention Center in Los Angeles, CA. More
information can be found on the website www.anime-expo.org
.

Interested bands can enter the event beginning March 14th, 2008 via mail by
submitting a video recording of their band's performance to:

BOTB c/o SPJA
1733 South Douglass Road, Suite F
Anaheim, CA 92806

Bands will also be able to submit entres via downloading their band's video
performance online at www.anime-expo.org/botb
at a later date.

All entries must be received no later than May 20th, 2008. All rules can be
found online at www.anime-expo.org/botb.

Prizes will be announced on the Battle of the Bands website at a later date.

For full description of the event and rules, please go to
www.anime-expo.org/botb.

Attendees, Press and Industry Members are also encouraged to view the video
coverage site of the 2007 convention at www.AXBackstage.org
.

This year's Red & Black Sponsors are FUNimation and ImaginAsian Television.
Gold Sponsor is Digital Manga Publishing. Silver Sponsor is Gaia Online.
Patron Sponsors are Central Park Media and COPIC Markers.

About Anime Expo®
Located in Los Angeles, California - Anime Expo®, the nation's largest
anime/manga convention, serves to foster trade, commerce and the interests
of the general public and animation/ comics industry. This event serves as
a key meeting place for the general public to express their interest and
explore various aspects of anime/manga, as well as for members of the
industry to conduct business. AX 2008 will be held July 3 – July 6, 2008 at
the Los Angeles Convention Center in Southern California. More information
can be found at its website (www.anime-expo.org).

About Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) is a non-profit
organization with a mission to popularize and educate the American public
about anime and manga, as well as provide a forum to facilitate
communication between professionals and fans. This organization is more
popularly known by its entertainment property – Anime Expo®. More
information can be found at its website (www.spja.org
).

The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are
"forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are based on
current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and
uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that a
number of important factors could cause Anime Expo®/SPJA's actual future
results to differ materially from those expressed in any such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation,
product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and
industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of
relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers,
international economic and political conditions. The Company may change its
intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon
any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise. The
Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any
forward-looking statements to reflect events or cir***stances after the date
hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

###


Addendum A

Battle of the Bands Rules

1. Auditions will start being accepted March 14th, 2008, either online at
www.anime-expo.org/botb or by sending it via snail mail to the following
address:
BOTB c/o SPJA
1733 South Douglass Road, Suite F
Anaheim, CA 92806
2. Auditions must be received no later than May 20th, 2008.
3. Auditions must include an audio and/or video recording of your
performance, a pic of the entire band, and the BOTB entry form, which is
found on the entry page.
4. Auditions must include an audio & video recording of your performance and
a listing of band members & song info (song name, relevance, etc.).
5. Song choices must fall below one of the following categories:
-Anime TV series/OVA/Movie (Opening/Ending/Main Theme/Soundtrack)
-Anime-Themed Videogame (Opening/Ending/Main Theme/Soundtrack)
6. Performances must be no longer than 5 min. in length.
7. No more than 10 members per band allowed.
8. All band members must be present in the audition.
9. No professionals are allowed to participate. Any performers who are
found out to be as such will be disqualified.
10. There must be at least one instrument used during the performance, no
acapella.
11. The top finalists will be contacted by BOTB staff by June 1st, 2008 to
confirm their participation in the at-con performance. A list of the
finalists will be posted on the Anime Expo® and BOTB websites on June 1st,
2008.
12. If chosen as one of the finalists, your performance piece will be the
same as your audition piece.
13. Please note that no instruments or equipment will be provided, with the
exception of mics.

*Rules are subject to change*


PHOTO EDITORS, PLEASE NOTE: Photos are available to the media. Please call
Chase Wang at (310) 869-8030 or send an e-mail to chase@bam-mp.com to
request materials.


CALENDAR EDITORS, PLEASE NOTE:

The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Anime presents Anime Expo® 2008.

WHO: Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
Industry giants
Guests from Japan and the U.S.
Exhibit Hall
Main Events
Concerts
Live Programming
Artist Alley
Screenings
Dances
Arcade
Red & Black Sponsors include: FUNimation and
ImaginAsian TV
Gold Sponsors include: Digital Manga Publishing
Silver Sponsors include: Gaia Online
Patron Sponsors include: COPIC and Central Park
Media

WHAT: Nation's largest 24 Hour anime/manga convention serving over
44,000+ unique attendees in 2007.

WHEN: Thursday, July 3, 2008 through Sunday, July 6, 2008

WHERE: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 South Figueroa Street; Los
Angeles, CA 90015

ADMISSION:

Registration Type Dates Price
Children ages 5 and under Anytime Free
4-Day Child (children ages 6-12) Anytime $30

Early Jan 1st to March 17th
4-Day Attendee $50
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

Regular March 18th to June 1st
4-Day Attendee $55
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

Late June 2nd to July 6th
4-Day Attendee $60
2-Day Attendee $45
1-Day Attendee $25

At the door* July 3rd to July 6th
4-Day Attendee $65
2-Day Attendee $50
1-Day Attendee $25
*At the door registration refers to badges purchased at the Los Angeles
Convention Center during the convention. Those who choose to register at the
Anime Expo® registration site will be subject to the fees listed in the “At
the door” category. However, online registrations made during the convention
are considered “Late” and will be charged according to the prices listed in
the “Late” category. Please note that you will save $5 by registering
online!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit the Anime Expo® 2008 website at:

http://www.anime-expo.org or call (310) 869-8030

[Ranma4699]

Consulate General of Japan in Boston Presents Panel at Anime Boston

Professor Ian Condry to lead discussion and screening of two landmark anime features

BOSTON, MA, USA – March 22, 2008 MIT professor Ian Condry, in cooperation with the Consulate General of Japan in Boston, will introduce and lead a discussion on two anime that can be viewed as bookends to the history of Japanese animation:

The Birth of Astro Boy (1963) and Tekkonkinkreet (2006).

Astro Boy displays the emotional intensity and storytelling brilliance of manga master Osamu Tezuka, and also illustrates the ways "limited animation" helped studios cope with challenges facing the industry in its early days.

Over four decades later, Studio 4C represents the cutting edge of the anime world, but also anime's continued close relationship with manga. Tekkonkinkreet is a tour-de-force based on a manga by the same name by artist Taiyo Matsumoto. Although it is an extremely faithful rendering of a complex tale, some people wonder whether an American director, even one living and working in Japan, can really make "anime." �

Come join the discussion about where anime has been and where it is going. Prof. Condry will introduce the films, lead discussion, and also show slides of his visit to Studio 4C. He will also discuss his interviews with Tekkon director Michael Arias.

ABOUT Ian Condry:
Ian Condry is a professor of Japanese cultural studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is currently writing a book called Anime Revolution: The Making of Japan's Media Success Story, which is based on fieldwork research in Tokyo anime studios. He is also the author of Hip-Hop Japan: Rap and the Paths of Cultural Globalization (2006, Duke U. Press).
Website: http://iancondry.com

The Consulate General of Japan in cooperation with Anime Boston (www.animeboston.org) brings this special panel and screening during the Anime Boston Convention, March 21 – 23, 2008.

[Ranma4699]

Shigofumi: Letters from the Departed to Premiere at Sakura-Con 2007

Sakura-Con 2008

Seattle, WA- 3-13-2008 Ali Project's live oversees debut at Sakura-Con 2008 just became an even more "once in a lifetime opportunity" with the support of Bandai Visual. Ali Project's much anticipated first US concert , happening Saturday March 29th at 2:30 pm, will include a performance of their latest single 'Kotodama,' the theme song to a new anime series Shigofumi: Letters from the Departed.

Shigofumi: Letters from the Departed comes from a dream team of highly acclaimed anime creators including Tatsuo Sato (Stellvia, Nadesico), Ichirou Ohkouchi (Code Geass, Planetes) and Kouhaku Kuroboshi (Kino's Journey). The story follows Fumika, a not-so-ordinary mail messenger who delivers not-so-ordinary letters, which Shota, a 16-year-old rocket enthusiast, soon discovers when Fumika and her talking staff Kanaka suddenly appear on his rooftop workshop to deliver a letter from the father of his friend (and love interest), Asuna. However, Asuna's dad was dead when he wrote it…

Attendees of Sakura-Con 2008 will be the first to see this wonderful series.
A promotional video clip from the anime will be shown at the live concert. The international premier of the first two episodes of Shigofumi will take place Saturday March 29th at 6:30 pm in the première room (panel room 1).

Furthermore, the 'Kotodama' CD will be available for purchase at the Ali Project autograph sessions and after the concert.

Sakura-Con 2008 will be at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center, in Seattle, Washington, March 28th through March 30th 2008.

For more information please visit our website at http://www.sakuracon.org.

ANCEA is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about popular and traditional Asian media and culture.

[Ranma4699]

Huge Guest Announcements & Harry Potter Doc Premiere at Florida Supercon

Fort Lauderdale, FL -Florida Supercon is back and bigger than ever! Get ready for the largest multi-genre convention in South Florida History as Florida Supercon moves to its new "super-sized" location, The Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Resort in Weston, FL.

We are proud to announce the latest nine guests scheduled to appear at the show.

* DJ HEAVYGRINDER: Beauty and beats, that's how you could describe one of the hottest new DJs to emerge from the West Coast's underground dance scene. DJ Heavygrinder made her way to LA after growing up in Japan and loves to spin hard house and drum and bass. Don't be put off by her good looks though, Heavygrinder plays for real and turns club speakers into black confetti with her pounding, take-no-prisoners mixes. Heavygrinder will be on hand to DJ the Friday night dance party and at the show all weekend in support of her new album “Eternity”, which hits stores in May 2008. For more information visit her website at www.djheavygrinder.com

* TADAHISA YOSHIDA: Superstar Visual Kei and JRock superstar Tadahisa Yoshida will be one of our headlining musical guests at Florida Supercon. If you don't know who he is, you soon will. He's got the looks of an adonis and a voice to make you sway, but don't be fooled; he's not one to be trifled with. For more information visit his website at www.myspace.com/tadahisayoshida
* MARKED AS HIS EQUAL: One of the rising stars of the new Harry Potter Wizard “WROCK” phenomenon, Mark will be performing at Florida Supercon as part of the Friday night Harry Potter Wrock Ball. In addition, Mark will be on hand over the weekend to support The Wizard Rockumentary, which makes its east coast premiere at Florida Supercon. For more information visit his website at www.dragonincorporated.com/mahe
* MEGAN & MALLORY SCHUYLER: Twin sisters Megan and Mallory are the filmmakers of The Wizard Rockumentary, the new do***entary that explores the Harry Potter Wizard “WROCK” phenomenon and the Harry Potter following. The Wizard Rockumentary will be making its east coast premiere at Florida Supercon and Megan and Mallory will be on hand to present the film. For more information on the film visit the website www. wizardrockumentary.com

* DANA SNYDER: Dana Snyder voices the arrogant and lazy Master Shake in Aqua Teen Hunger Force. A native of Allentown, P.A., Dana Snyder has focused much of his work in theater-style comedy. In addition to his work on Aqua Teen, Chowder (as Gazpacho), The Venture Bros. (as The Alchemist), Minoriteam (as Dr. Wang), Squidbillies (as Granny), Sealab 2021 and Robot Chicken, Dana has appeared in various theater performances such as "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" and "The Mystery of Irma Vepp" among many others. Also, contrary to certain beliefs, Dana was NOT the "Food-Way Woman" in “The Shawshank Redemption. For more information visit his website at www.eyeofthesnyder.com
* Jay EDWARDS: Producer/Editor & Director of Aqua Teen Hunger Force. Jay is one of the guiding forces behind Aqua Teen Hunger Force and Squidbillies, acting in the role of Producer, Editor and Director for the shows. For the feature film Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theatres he was the supervising Editor and a producer. In addition, Jay is the filmmaker responsible for the cult hit Stomp! Shout! Scream!
* GEORGES JEANTY: The superstar artist whose work graces the pages of Buffy The Vampire Slayer: Season 8 will be joining us at Florida Supercon for a second time in May. In addition to working on this top 10 selling comic, Georges amazing body of work includes stints on Gambit, Deadpool, Weapon X, Superman, Gambit & Bishop, The American Way, GLX-Mas Special, New X-Men and Green Lantern. For more information visit his website at www.kabalounge.com
* MONKEY WOMAN: Star of Stan Lee's Who Wants To Be a Superhero and up and coming actress, Mary Votava (aka Monkey Woman) will be swinging in to Florida Supercon to keep us safe from all the evil doers! In addition to her time on Who Wants To Be a Superhero, Mary can also be seen in the films Blood Scarab, Trim, Waking Up with Monsters, The Daughters of Darkness and more. In addition to spending every waking moment doing something towards achieving her dreams, Mary enjoys reading books, tooling around on the computer, geocaching, golfing very poorly, accidently killing houseplants in an effort to make them look like Bonsai trees and meeting with fans. Visit her on her website at www.monkeywoman.com
In addition to these new guests announcements, Florida Supercon is excited to announce that the new Harry Potter Do***entary “The Wizard Rockumentary” will be making its east coast premiere at the show. The Wizard Rockumentary is a feature length do***entary exploring Harry Potter fandom, the Wizard Rock community, and the goals of these musicians to promote literacy. To help promote this premiere screening, the filmmakers (Megan and Mallory Schuyler) and Wizard Rock artist Marked As His Equal will be in attendance. For more information on the film visit www.wizardrockumentary.com

Florida Supercon is a convention for comic book, anime, animation, sci-fi, fantasy and manga fans taking place May 23 - 25, 2008 at The Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Resort in Weston, FL. (Just outside of Fort Lauderdale). The show will include celebrity guests, artists, writers, vendors, industry guests, Q&A's, parties, costume contests, anime programming, manga, cosplay, workshops, panels, cosplay photoshoots and more! The current guest list for FSC includes:

* James and Oliver Phelps: Harry Potter superstars! James and Oliver are best known for their roles as Fred and George Weasly.
* Stanislav Ianevski: Harry Potter superstar! Stanislav is best known for his role as Viktor Krum, as well as starring in Hostel 2.
* Carmine Infantino: Comic Book Legend. Former President and Publisher of DC Comics and creator of the silver age Flash. Legendary artist of Batman, The Flash, Superman, Star Wars and more!
* Dan Slott: Superstar Comic Book writer. Dan's credits include She Hulk, Avengers: The Initiative, Ren & Stimpy, and is the new writer of The Amazing Spider-Man.
* Grey DeLisle: Superstar Voice Actress. Grey is well known for her work in Avatar: The Last Airbender (Princess Azula), The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy (Mandy), Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi (Yumi),
Scooby Doo (Daphne), Star Wars: Clone Wars (Padme Amidala), Ultimate Avengers (The Wasp) and The Fantastic Four (Invisible Woman).
* Samantha Newark: Superstar Voice Actress and Musician. Sam is JEM from JEM and the Holograms and she'll be performing on stage Saturday night.
* Larry Kenney: Superstar Voice Actor. Larry is the voice of LION-O in The Thundercats!
* Kyle Baker: Superstar Cartoonist. Credits include: Plastic Man, Why I Hate Saturn, You Are Here, Truth and King David.
* Richard Epcar: Superstar Voice Actor. Ghost in the Shell (Batou), Robotech (Ben Dixon, Lunk), Transformers: Robots in Disguise (Armorhide), Bleach (Zangetsu, Mr. Kagine), Mighty Morphin Power Rangers and more!
* **** Giordano: Comic Book Legend and Superstar. DC Comics, Charlton Comics, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Supergirl.
* Ellyn Stern: Superstar Voice Actress. Star of Bleach (Masaki Kurosaki), Ghost in the Shell (Haraway) and Armitage III.
* Alex Saviuk: Comic Book Legend and Superstar. Web of Spider-Man, X-Files, Action Comics, Superman, Amazing Spider-Man.
* Derec Donovan: Superstar Comic Book Artist. Current artist on Youngblood, Derec's credits include: Rogue, Generation X, Adv. of the X-Men, Green Lantern, Action Comics, Adventures of Superman and Connor Hawke.
* Peelander-Z: Superstar Japanese Action Comic Punk Band.
* Mark Sparacio: Superstar Artist. Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide, Jonah Hex, Liberty Girl.
* Sophie McNutt: Industry Guest. Funimation's Operation Anime Co-coordinator.
* Allen Bellman: Golden Age Comic Book Legend. Captain America, The Patriot, Let's Play Detective, Human Torch, Sub-Mariner.
* Yaya Han: Superstar Cosplayer.
* Chickenbox!: The punk rock live action animation band.
* Terry Cronin & Pat Martin: Independent Comic Book writers and creators of Students of the Unusual.
* Select Start: The Classical Music Video Game Band.
and dozens more!

The new location for FSC is The Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Resort, 250 Racquet Club Road, Weston FL. 33326. The Bonaventure has over 60,000 square feet of total convention space and is three times the size of Florida Supercon's last location. Information on the Resort can be found at
http://bonaventure.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/events/index.jsp

The convention hours of operation are:
FRIDAY, MAY 23: 5:00PM - 2:00AM
SATURDAY, MAY 24: 11:00AM - 2:00AM
SUNDAY, MAY 25: 11:00AM - 6:00PM

For more information and updates: visit www.floridasupercon.com
Florida Supercon Tickets are currently available online.
General Admission (3) Day Weekend Pass
$20 if reserved between Jan. 23 and March 23, 2008
$25 if reserved between March 23 and April 23, 2008
$30 if reserved between April 23 and May 22, 2008
General Admission at the door is $20 for a one day pass or $30 for the (3) day weekend.
VIP Tickets are available as well (Bronze: $65, Silver: $125 and Gold $250).

FLORIDA SUPERCON is sponsored by Students of the Unusual (www.studentsoftheunusual.com), Tate's Comics (www.tatescomics.com) and Lee "The Batfan" (www.myspace.com/the_batfan)

[Ranma4699]

Otakuthon 2008 Announces Guest of Honour Tiffany Grant and First Round of Guests

MONTREAL, QUEBEC, CANADA (March 25, 2008) - Otakuthon, Montreal's fan-run anime convention, is pleased to announce that voice actress Tiffany Grant will be one of its Guests of Honour this year.
In addition to Tiffany Grant, Otakuthon would also like to announce its Industry Guest of Honour: Matt Greenfield, co-founder & senior VP of ADV Films.
Other special guests that will be attending Otakuthon this year: the comedy improv group "The 404s", J-rock bands "–Neurose?-" and "Disorder", master cosplayers "Kaijugal" and "Sarcasm-hime", and the cosplay group "Ontario Anime Society".
About Tiffany Grant:
Very excited to make her first trip to Montréal, Québec, Tiffany Grant is best known as Asuka from Neon Genesis Evangelion. The first voice actor hired by ADV in February 1994, she has voiced characters in over 940 TV episodes, OVAs & movies including Chrono Crusade, Blue Seed, Golden Boy, Azumanga Daioh, Godannar, Fullmetal Alchemist and Maburaho. Recent projects include Gurren Lagann, The Wallflower, Kurau: Phantom Memory, Magikano, Mushi-Shi and Hell Girl. Tiffany has many years of experience in theatre and commercials as well as an incurable Hello Kitty addiction!
About Matt Greenfield:
As the co-founder and Senior VP of ADV Films, North America's largest anime distributor, Matt Greenfield is easily one of the busiest men in anime today. He also considers himself one of the luckiest. Raised on a steady diet of science fiction novels, giant monster movies and animated series like Astro Boy and Speed Racer, Greenfield's career never lost touch with his youthful interests. Now married to voice actor Tiffany Grant, recent and current projects include directing the English language version of Kurau: Phantom Memory, The Wallflower and Gurren Lagann and contributing to the production of the live-action Evangelion feature film.

About Otakuthon:
Otakuthon is a fan-run, bilingual anime convention started by the Otaku Anime club of Concordia University. The first of its kind in Montréal, Otakuthon has taken place twice at Concordia University and featured several special guests as well as many activities and events related to anime, manga, video games, artwork, and Japanese culture. The next edition will be held on July 26 – 27, 2008 at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. For more information about Otakuthon, visit their website at http://www.otakuthon.com/. More information about the Palais des congrès de Montréal can be found at http://www.congresmtl.com/

[Ranma4699]

Idol Singer Shoko Nakagawa to Perform at Anime Expo

"Shokotan" known for her otaku knowledge, Gurren Lagann theme, 1-billion-hit blog


http://www.suparobo.jp/topics/shokonakagawa2007/img/photo06.jpg

Anime Expo has announced that otaku personality/singer/actress Shoko "Shokotan" Nakagawa will perform at the July 3-6 convention at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Nakagawa debuted as the grand prize winner of the Popolo Girl Audition in 2001, but her popularity among otaku took off when she launched her blog in 2004. Nakagawa is known for updating the blog as many as 15 times a day with her observations on life and her expert knowledge on anime and manga. Sony Music said her blog received a total of 1 billion hits as of early 2008. She sang theme songs for the Eyeshield 21, Hakaba Kitarō, Yoshimune, and Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann anime series. The Gurren Lagann theme, "Sorairo Days," debuted at #3 on Japan's Oricon weekly singles chart. She also voiced roles in Eyeshield 21, Hakaba Kitarō, and the Pokémon movies.

Nakagawa and Vice Foreign Minister Katsuhito Asano officially welcomed the finalists in the 2007 World Cosplay Summit to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs last August. Nakagawa then drew her first published manga, Nōko no Koi, in Ohta Shuppan's hon-nin magazine last September. Nakagawa capped off 2007 by performing in the Kōhaku Uta Gassen (Red and White Song Battle), the New Year's Eve singing contest that is among the most-watch television programs in Japan. She released her first full-length album, Big☆Bang!!!, last week.

[Ranma4699]

Castle Point Anime Convention

HOBOKEN, NEW JERSEY The Stevens Anime Club announces registration cap and deadline for non-Stevens Community attendees of the Castle Point Anime Convention, electronic registration and payment, new guest comedian Uncle Yo, and the debut of bimonthly magazine @domain.

The registration cap for non-Stevens community attendees (anybody who is not a Stevens student, staff or faculty member, or alumni) of the Castle Point Anime Convention (CPAC) is limited to 600 people. Be sure to register to guarantee your spot!

Electronic registration and payment is now available on the Castle Point Anime Convention website! Information for registration via snail mail is also available on the CPAC website. Electronic payment is currently available via PayPal for CPAC Registration, Program Guide Advertisements, and for the Artist's Alley registration. Electronic Registration is also available for Panels & Workshops Events. The deadline for pre-registration is April 8 at 11:59 p.m.

Bimonthly magazine @domain will be making its debut at the Castle Point Anime Convention. @domain will use a format similar to those of Shonen Jump and Shojo Beat, and will feature original stories that have been inspired by the styles of eastern manga and western comic books. @domain may be purchased in the Artist's Alley for only $5. To learn more about @domain, check out their website at http://www.detournoir.com/.

Comedian Uncle Yo will be performing at Castle Point Anime Convention. Uncle Yo performs material aimed at otaku, video gamers, Jedi, Trekkies, and fanboys and fangirls.

Please visit http://castlepointanime.com for more information.
Any questions may be sent to info@castlepointanime.com.


ABOUT CASTLE POINT ANIME CONVENTION: Castle Point Anime Convention is created and organized by the members of the Stevens Anime Club and will be held on April 13, 2008 on the campus of Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. Castle Point Anime Convention is just minutes away from New York City and is easily accessible by PATH, NJ Transit, ferry, and bus. Castle Point Anime Convention aims to promote anime, manga, and Japanese culture as well as providing a fun experience for anime fans.

[Ranma4699]

Shokotan “Fever” to Shake Up Anime Expo® 2008


Song Siren to Perform at Nation's Largest Convention

Anaheim, California (March 26, 2008) — The new Japanese “It-Girl”, television celebrity, blogger, voice actress and illustrator Shoko Nakagawa (“Shokotan” as her fans call her) joins the hottest line up of Anime Expo® 2008 Guests of Honors for the highly anticipated 2008 convention July 3-6, 2008 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. More information can be found on the website www.anime-expo.org .

Born in Tokyo in 1985, Ms. Nakagawa broke blog visit records in February 2008 when her blog, 'Shokotan Blog' received over one billion hits. Filled with photos and entries written in her own unique slang, this blog is arguably the most popular of the many celebrity blogs. The site, which Ms. Nakagawa updates as many as 15 times a day, garners over 1,800,000 hits a day.

Among many fields of Ms. Nakagawa's activities, music has been one of her most successful ventures. Since her singing debut in 2006, she has quickly expanded her fan base. Her single 'Sorairo Days', released in June of 2007, was chosen as the theme song to the popular TV anime TENGEN TOPPA GURREN LAGANN. Her first ever rock song, it debuted at #3 on Japan's Oricon weekly single chart. Thanks to the ever-increasing popularity of fan events held all over the country, Ms. Nakagawa had her first concert in Tokyo in December of 2007. Tickets sold out in 25 seconds, and the show drew a crowd of 2000 enthusiastic fans.

Ms. Nakagawa is also known for her extensive knowledge of anime and manga. On her blog she posts her thoughts on works that catch her interest, along with her own professional quality illustrations. In May of 2007, she chose 5 songs from over 1,500,000 requests, and released 'Shokotan☆Cover' a cover album of anime theme songs. In August of the same year, she was selected as Japan's good will ambassador at the 'World Cosplay Summit 2007', an event for aficionados of cosplay from all over the world. Her live performance at the event received rave reviews from guests, setting the stage for her worldwide popularity. The next month she followed up her hit anime song cover album with the release of 'Shokotan☆Cover 2'. The album became yet another smash hit, ranking in at #11 on the Oricon album chart.

2007 was no doubt a huge year for Ms. Nakagawa. On December 31st, she realized her dream of performing on the Kohaku Utagassen, Japan's traditional end of the year singing TV program. It was a fitting way to end an impressive year. Ms. Nakagawa took her place on stage with other artists representing the best and brightest of Japan's music stars, and received attention for her real time updates to her blog from backstage at the event.

On the first day of the New Year 2008, Ms. Nakagawa went straight from Kohaku to perform at the prestig