The long & short of it: Homestuck. Homestuck everywhere.

Hotel: Where the fuck were the ice machines? I literally walked around 4 floors and didn't see a single one.

Staff: Why were they recording ALL your info off your driver's license just to give you an 18+ wristband on Friday? I've been to bigger cons where they just do ID checks at the panel door. Their system would've been fine if they didn't feel the need to record all that info.

Masquerade: I've never been a huge masquerade goer, but decided to give it a try. I'm glad they didn't allow gangnam skits, I can imagine the program would've been inundated though. Also, Dear people doing dance skits, if you're going to do them, practice, practice, PRACTICE! Same goes for all the lip synching. I totally understand that they probably required audio tracks before hand so they could preview them, but since you submit it, you can practice with it.

Normally dancing is entertaining to me but when you have a group and there are dancers concentrating on watching the others and what moves to do next, it kind of ruins the effect.

>>6405753
I got a wristband on Saturday and all they did was take down my name & type of ID. Weird.

What was the masqerade? I heard tha the only good one was the skit that one best in show.

Also agreed on the fucking HOMESTUCK. It's getting old now.

>>6405763

I don't read or follow Homestuck but I could still see/recognize it everywhere. Even worse, it seemed the Homestuck fans were the least well behaved of the entire con crowd.

I did not see any regulars in the masquerade, did not recognize any of the cosplayers. Seems they were all staffing or judging.

>>6405763
Maybe they had smartened up by Saturday. The girl who was helping me took my name, full address, and ID type [DL number & state in my case]. What a waste of time and I didn't really want her to have all that info just hanging around. The line was so slow on Friday because they were taking so much info.

Speed Racer scared the living daylights outta me.

>>6405783
Um yeaaa. He went from zero to 100 then back to zero in a nanosecond. I was kind of uncomfortable when he was on stage. I wasn't sure what he was going to say or do next.

Also Is that the same guy who cosplays oldschool stuff - for some reason I thought it was the same guy who cosplays Keith from Voltron in years past.

>>6405770
>>6405763
Think god I'm not the only one that that thought the homestruck fans were being overly obnoxious and annoying.

I have to say that the hotel was actual pretty nice and it was bigger than last year. But there isn't very much spots to do photoshoots since many people take pictures in the lobby. Haven't gone to the masquerade but I can say that what really sucks is that Cosplay Burlesque started 1 and a half hour late and security people were fucking rude. And from what I've heard is that the rave sucked big time this year and the Dealers room sucked as well since there were less booths this year. Overall it was okay for me.

File: 1352697053525.jpg-(1.04 MB, 900x1322, IMG_7237.jpg)

I didn't take a ton of photos of other people but I'll post what I have

>>6405753
My understanding is that organizations cannot record all that information under the Federal Driver's Privacy Protection. All they can do is actually look at the DL to verify your age since that is the reason they are looking at the DL in the first place. Essentially, only for verification purposes. Unless they were using the information for private statistical purposes, but recording your name wouldn't be necessary in such a case. And they would have to disclose that non of the information they provided would be made public.

>>6405824
Wow, what an excellent Moxxi. She's adorable. The tip jar was a great prop, too.

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>>6405824

>>6405868
Oh my God, an Amalthea cosplayer. I really wish she put on makeup around her eyes and fixed her eyebrows, but I'm just excited to see someone cosplaying her.

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>>6405868

File: 1352698097443.jpg-(53 KB, 541x960, hoobtpls.jpg)

>hotel
Ausa was a last minute con, so the hotel was sold out of rooms. We were able to get a room at the hotel Katsucon used to be (waaaay back in the day), it wasnt more than a block away from the con so that was good. Location was really nice. In fact, Katsucon has been pissing me off so i think next year im going to skip katsu and just do ausa.

>staff
Was it just me or did they have a good amount of people with downs working as staff? Anyway, they seemed alright. Line for your badge was awkwardly laid out.

>masquerade
missed it

>con in general
They should rename it Homestuck con... But then again, thats not the con's fault. I think there were waaaay too many underage peoples running around Saturday night at like 3 am at the hotel. This was my fist AUSA since 2007, and i was impressed. Totally going next year!
Heres my hobbit costume, was in the dealers room most of the con, so not sure if anyone saw me.

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Half of friday I spent at the made cafe hanging around with my roomies who was doing performances there, then actually getting a table with other roomies the next day. The maid cafe there was the best part of the con for me, felt like an actual restaurant, wish I didn't buy chinese right before going in; woulda gotten some omurice ;;.

Most of the other time I spent going around in circles just bumping into people I've met in past cons and playing video games while keeping myself tipsy the entire time.

The Dealers Room was the usual except for their no phones/camera/etc allowed policy, I'm not sure why they had that.

Security in general didn't bother me unless I was on my way to my room cause I would notice them patrolling the room hallways constantly.

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>>6405875

>>6405824
Dat stitching on the trim

>>6405835
Would've been nice if this lady got with the program then since in my post >>6405775 I mentioned that she took down literally, all the info on my license save for height/hair+eye color and organ donor status. It was awkward. I didn't see what the guy sitting next to her was recording from the people he was helping but yea, I thought all she really needed was to verify my age. Being 28, it's not like I'm trying to sneak in at all.

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>>6405882

>>6405753

Hey anon, what skit are you talking about? I only caught half of them, I got there late.

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>>6405899

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>>6405945

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>>6405951

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>>6405961

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>>6405971

>hotel
The maid staff was very snippy and the front desk tried to limit our room cards. Though, the mini fridge hadn't been cleaned out from the last guests so they gave us free wifi! The old part of the hotel was insanely gorgeous and if AUSA returns to that location I'm definitely making a cosplay that would fit the environment. Outside was very nice for shoots as well.

-staff
I didn't have any interaction with them actually, and some times I went in to con-specific areas and there wasn't even a staffer outside to check my badge. Though I did overhear two talking about the burlesque Sunday afternoon, apparently there was some issue with some people having gotten stickers and some didn't? And the ones who didn't have them weren't allowed in and there was nothing they could do about it. They spoke about it in a very shrug-your-shoulders type manner.

-masquerade
I haven't gone to one in over two years

-con in general
This con is where I got my start cosplaying so it has a soft spot with me, and everyone is so relaxed that it was pretty good for networking and meeting people. The panels were all bland and boring and the scheduling was derp. I'm a bit upset that my (anime related) panel was turned down but there were multiple Homestuck panels. I understand that HS is the popular thing right now and they want to cater to that to bring in as many people as possible but I can only justify it but so much when anime related panels get turned down and non anime related panels get multiple spots ... at an anime convention. And I typically dismiss the "BUT ANIMU CONVENTIONS R 4 ANIMU ONLI!!!!!!" argument. The con itself can't help how many HS cosplayers there are, but the panel issue is something they can control.

And drinking at the bar as Ryoko from Tenchi was mucho fun.

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>>6405973

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>>6405980
>And drinking at the bar as Ryoko from Tenchi was mucho fun
I was the chick with the short blue hair that said "ryoko,i love you" in passing that nigh! You were amazing!

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>>6405984

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>>6406007
Last photo!

>>6406016

EPIC

>>6406006
Ahh thank you!

What was the deal with the girl singing at the masquerade line? I know they hired her and all, but the sound system was such shit that I honestly thought it was coming from a panel room and was wondering wtf this girl was doing, spinning around and dancing... then I realized she was the one singing.

-hotel
Was nice, holy shit. First time at AUSA, was pretty blown away by its fanciness. I think they scheduled another business convention at the same time? We went looking for deserted bathrooms and ran into a lot of perturbed older folks wearing name tags, so....
-staff
They were all pretty polite and helpful. I was in the masq and they were super nice in helping us with one member who had a fever and with any questions we had.
-masquerade
See above. When we got there for the rehearsal we were kind of shocked at how few skits there were. Speed Racer was terrifying to behold, so glad we were able to sneak into the back of the audience for it. I was fairly unimpressed with everyone (including our own skit, lol) but the Best in Show, and that was only because DAT WIG WORK.

-con in general
Was smaller than I thought it would be? Lots of homestucks. The member of our group that had a fever had also never heard of homestuck so it was fun pointing them out as we went by. However there were a lot of great cosplays I was excited to see (999, Shadow of the Colossus, ODIN SPHERE). Lost my wallet and phone, but overall it was a good con!

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I only took a handful of pictures this weekend but I'll post them anyway even if they are slightly blurry phone pictures.

This Homura was so adorable

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>>6406427

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>>6406430
My first ever sighting of actual Dota 2 cosplay. Exciting.

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>>6406433

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>>6406434

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>>6406443
Heres to hoping the new anime will bring many many more Jojo's cosplay

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>>6406446
And arguably my favorite cosplay of the weekend. Akane Akaza cosplay complete with Akari body pillow. The only thing missing would be a pair of panties being worn on the head but I cant complain.

>>6406443
Oh God DAMMIT! How the fuck did I miss these guys when I was wearing Sith too!

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>>6406450

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>>6406460
"I went to fast and now I have jaundice"

Thats the end of pictures I deem acceptable for the internet. Con was overall fun. 7.8/10 will probably attend next year.

>>6405817

This is perfection.

>>6406450
I roomed with this lady! She actually did have panties but she thought they looked dumb because they were too big, so she forewent them~

>>6405980
SO YOU WERE THE RYOKO.

Spot on my friend, spot on.

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Missed half the panels I wanted to go to because they were canceled or in a different room. Very disorganized.
Over heard some con staff getting pissed that they couldn't take peoples coffee mugs/bottles/etc "its so obvious that they're drinking!" Etc

My one problem was a girl dressed and some guy from kingdom hearts. She felt the need to run up to me and my friend (fionna and cake) to tell her how many fionnas she just saw. That and some guy was caressing her hat in the elevator.

Also, upon checking out, I noticed I was overcharged for the convention rate. By twice as much. The refund hasn't appeared on my card yet so I need to give customer service a call.
Overall I had fun

>>6406891
*dressed like some guy

File: 1352736207779.jpg-(1.12 MB, 2560x1920, 2012-11-10 21.07.28.jpg)

I've got more on my camera. Will post later.

>>6406891
i dont know who the fuck that girl is in middle
please tell me u all look like this
looks like im going to every cosplay as the hulk

>>6405798
Apparently the guy who was the dj the first night got pissed that he couldn't have gogo dancers (although his music sucked...hard) it got a little better Saturday, but I left at 2. Apparently it got awesome after 2.

But I'm wondering why gogo dancers were banned this year?

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>>6406906
what could be viewed by some as trash talking
forgeting mandatory self pic my bad
also sorry shitty webcam and i am lazy

>>6406446
Fastcart!!!

Speaking as an AUSA staffer who a) will remain anonymous and b) has the power to declare this, we understand the criticism with Homestuck. That won't be nearly as much an issue next year, though I'm sure we'll still at least have some presence.

Photoshoots - WARDMAN. FUCKING. TOWER. LOBBY. It's beautiful, opulent, plaster-of-paris and Colonial style furniture and real paintings and gilding everywhere. It's down past the gift shop; go to the end then down the corridor to the right. There were a lot of impromptu photoshoots in there, and I don't blame them at all.

Wristbands - D.C. law requires a lot of additional information (I don't know what exactly) for such things; we had to take it all down. This law only affects the District, not Maryland or Virginia, which is why we've never run into it before. But that's one good thing for the future - you only have to sign in once, not repeatedly check in. Once you got your wristband, you were good to go. We'll have more people checking members in next year to speed things up.

There was another convention going on, hence why there was blocked off/deserted areas. It was also a law-enforcement convention with very, uh, high-powered and large agencies, so trust me it was a very good thing that we had those neutral-zones. We won't have that issue next year, as the convention will be in September, and we'll have a lot more of the hotel's exhibit space to work in. I think you guys are going to love it.

And from the staff and myself personally, I'm going to say thank you all, and that we all hope you can come back and have at least as much of a good time next year.

P.S.: Sorry I missed Speed Racer...

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>>6406922

>>6406961
P.P.S.
The scheduling issues were a series of problems partly caused by a massive change in Guidebook, the hurricane and winter storm, and other technical backend problems. This was our first time working with Guidebook this year, and I can guarantee you the problems we had this year with schedules will /NOT/ happen next year. We're on top of it.

As far as panel submissions, we're really going to try for a lot more entirely anime panels and especially theme-related stuff. It's "Edo Period" next year, so break out your inner samurai!

>>6406973
bench 275 brobeans
its a bad pic

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>>6406980
I'm not your bro.

>>>/fit/15747432
nice dual posts, insecure much?

also
>only saying bench stats
lel

tell me someone got video of the Avengers gangnam style dance outside the dealer's room

>>6406993
deadlift 405
squat 315x8

>hotel
Honestly, coolest hotel I've had the pleasure to go to a con at.
>staff
Cool. Didn't bother me. Were helpful.
>masquerade
It was in the middle of the day so I didn't go. I only watch these in the evening.
>con in general
Cool con. As people have said, Homestucks. But every small-mid sized anime con these days are nothing but Homestucks. Quality cosplay everywhere. Good artists in the alley. Awesome board game library. Fan-centric panels full of derp but still entertaining.

I enjoyed the fuck out of AUSA, actually. It was a really great "relax and chill" con. Met some great people, hung with people I already knew. Friday night I was Lawyer She-Hulk, so if anyone got any pics of that I'd love to see them -- I enjoyed doing that costume a lot.

>hotel
I didn't actually stay there, but I loved the place. The Wardman tower lobby was a great place for an AusHun shoot, so spacious -- it was a little confusing and sprawling, but I prefer that to the Hyatt from last year. Proximity to a metro stop was also a plus up from last year. Seems great.

>staff
I did not have many interactions with staffers, but those that I did interact with were pretty great people who did their job in a polite manner. It still outclasses the cluelessness of the Katsu staffers and the asshole Otakon staffers.

>masq
Didn't go, though my friends won a judges choice award.

>con in general
I really enjoyed myself this con -- I only did a few con-related activities like screenings and panels, but those that I saw were good, and as I said, for a Relax-A-Con, it was great. Totally going next year, especially since its the most local of cons for me.

>hotel
- Nice and spacious enough that it didn't make me feel claustrophobic like at the Hyatt, even with another convention going on at the same time. Location is also good like at the Hyatt with lots of restaurants and a CVS nearby.

>staff
Seemed to be in good(ish) spirits so it gave the impression that they didn't hate their lives and what they were doing. It does make a big difference.

Hotel staff: Standard. I had to valet park my vehicle because I arrived late Friday and the garages were full. The thought of my new vehicle being a few metro stops away or street-parked made me nervous.

Wish there was more garage parking and I also later found out that they put "Garage full" signs out to "reserve" spaces for con-attendees. Is that true?

>masquerade
Pros:
- I liked that it started at 5 so that you could use your evening too
- 8 skits = more quality control IMO.
- Fashion show was enjoyable
- Liked that they announced each character etc.

Cons:
- Wish they announced divisions in fashion show like to do something else [mentioned Novice, but not the others]
- Speed Racer: I thought at one point they'd cut the mic and pull him off stage during one of his prolonged silences, but nope. So much awkwardness, I kind of felt bad for the guy.
- Wish they had slides with photos of the winners for craftsmanship. Especially helpful when people were judged on Friday but are at the show wearing jeans/shirt or a different costume. It's just fun to see what people won with.

Contd from >>6407146

>con in general
Overall, this has always been my relax and chill con, this year was no exception. I like the new location. The layout was sprawling and kind of hard to figure out since I got there at the end of day 1, but my group pretty much stayed together so they knew where they had to go. From what I saw, I liked that it was spread out enough that you didn't feel like you were walking on people. Also there were good areas around and outside the hotel to use for photography and general relaxing.

I understand that Guidebook also wasn't up to where AUSA wanted it but am pleased to hear that it will be tweaked and perfected for next year. We use this program all the time at conventions for my job and I was really excited about using it since it eliminates carrying around papers/booklets and you can customize a schedule of things you want to go to. Definitely look forward to seeing this in "fighting shape" next year.

One panel was VERY misleading. Weaboos, japanophiles, and etc
I didn't know what I was hoping for, but when I read the guide I'm a little happy it got canceled. Though I met some pretty awesome people there while we waited.

So wait, does anyone know/remember who won for masquerad and cosplay? We were at the show but my friend started to get sick so we had to duck out early.

>>6407219
the first utena group won best in show.

>friday hall judge here
>>6407146
I know we did take photos of all the entrants for that purpose during awards, but not sure why it didn't happen.
>>6407219
I know the Utena/Adele group won Best in Show for the masquerade... Slim pickins.
Hall awards I can remember (pretty much just Friday):
Best of Weekend: Alvin, Tales of Xillia
Best of Friday: Aggron, Pokemon
Best of Saturday: Some zombie hippie girl, Lollipop Chainsaw
Best Craftsman, Friday: Mercedes, Odin Sphere
Best Craftsman, Saturday: Mami, Madoka
Best Journeyman, Friday:
Best Novice, Friday:
Best Open Division, Fri: Abel Nightroad, Trinity Blood
Best Open Division, Sat: Korra, Legend of Korra
Honorable Mention, Fri: Chii, Tsubasa Chronicles
Honorable Mention, Fri: Sailor Jupiter, Sera Myu
Oshi's Judge's Award: King Kazma, Summer Wars
Lady Ava's Judge's Award: Connor, Assassin's Creed 3
AkaneSaotome's Judge's Award: Sailor Moon (the one with all the roses)

I'll find out/remember the rest and post a complete list later...

This was the first con I've ever been to, and I really enjoyed it! I was fortunate enough to run into two groups of Baccano! cosplayers, which made my day. Unfortunately I only wore my own costume on Saturday, and I met Isaac and Miria on Sunday.

Downsides: I... wasn't that impressed with most of the panels I went to. A couple of the panelists at the late-night ones were pretty sloshed, and it kind of ruined their ability to present well. Some of the other ones were just kind of low-energy. I really only enjoyed Disorganization XIII. Is this typical for small conventions like this? I'm going to Katsucon next, do any of the more experienced con-goers here have anything positive/negative to say about how the panels usually are? Or suggestions about new things to try next con?

>>6407382
They posted the album of entrants for hall cosplay on their FB page. Maybe that will jog your memory?

Can't post a direct link as 4chan thinks it's spam but it's just AnimeUSAcosplay on FB.

On a side note, I was really impressed by the overall quality of costumes in this album! I would hate to have been a judge and have to pick. Congrats to the winners!

I did not took as much pictures this year due to the lack of photoshoots as usual in AUSA due to the fact that this was their first year at their new hotel, but I took at least plenty of photos of various cosplayers.

(You should have seen the Sakura from the Ring series holding a TV set.)

Yes, there were plenty of homestuckers. But the hotel for the most part is good and I'm personally happy that a anime con has finally come home to DC after Katsucon left after the 14th iteration.

One of the things I did not like is that the video game room is no longer open 24 hours. AUSA used to do that in the previous years but these days with their need for sleep and with newer consoles more prone to heat related malfunctions it makes perfect sense.

File: 1352753968512.jpg-(2.11 MB, 2448x3264, IMG_0101.jpg)

and now a taste to whats to come in my photo thread.

>>6407467
That helped me with Friday's...
Best Journeyman, Friday: Miaka, Fushigi Yuugi
Best Novice, Friday: Anthy, Utena

But between Saturday's Best Novice & Journeyman, Honorable Mentions, and Ambrosia, PorkBuns, and Uxi's Judge's Awards, I don't remember which was which, but they were distributed between the Sync (Tales of the Abyss), Yunalesca, Ibuki, Miku, Sailor Moon, Ren (Magi), and Chevalier d'Eon ones. Pretty sure.

Here's a redirect to the gallery: http://del.oshi.us/ausahall

>>6407382
>Best of Friday: Aggron, Pokemon
That would win with you judging.
>Oshi's Judge's Award: King Kazma, Summer Wars
You would pick that.
>Lady Ava's Judge's Award: Connor, Assassin's Creed 3
She would pick that.

>StarlightHoney and BreathlessAire running the hall contest
>Oshi, Lady Ava, AkaneSaotome, Ambrosia, PorkBuns, and Uxi judging
No wonder the masquerade sucked, anyone who might compete worth a damn was working craftsmanship

>>6407653
Oh and FireLily and DizzyLizzy judging the masquerade. They both used to compete all the time too.

>>6407653
>>6407658

And a handful of other people related to their crowd that did not compete, either. None of the regulars were in the masquerade.

>>6407774
So because people weren't in the "regulars" crowd, everything now is deemed to be shit?

>>6407786


It's not that everything is deemed to be shit because certain people aren't involved, it's because the people who are putting on the skits are not putting up the same quality/effort/whateverthefuck. The skits suck, period. People with unrehearsed bullshit, ideas based on inside jokes or other nonsense, overdone dances, etc.

The only saving grance for Anime USA is that they banned Gangnam style and saved us hearing it fifty times over.

>>6407575
This girl and her friend were so sweet!

>>6407794
Speaking of Gangnam Style there were few instances of people renacting the music video. Not to mention the people who were dressed up as Psy.

>>6408033
Yea, they even blocked off a hallway because of their dancing. My group was trying to leave the next morning and they made it pretty difficult to walk around them.

>>6405945
That girl in the background. The homestuck cosplayer...she had the bitchiest look on her face every time I saw her. Everrry time Does anyone know her?

>>6408069
Was this the same guy trying to make a video?

Hotel: This is the review I gave them :I stayed for a convention over 3 days at this hotel. From the moment I stepped out of the car out front until the moment I left the parking deck I was treated very rudely. I had called a few days ahead about parking to make sure that we would have space when we arrived around 8 the morning of the con. We were told that parking was full and we had to find it elsewhere, possibly with directions from valet. We step outside and speak to them, only to be shrugged at and told "Maybe UDC. Take a right, then a left, then another left" and that was it. Being out of state, these were not the best directions so we decided to unload and try again. We grabbed a cart only to be whistled at by some valet attendant and then stared at. We asked what the problem was and he mumbled at us so we had to ask again. Another man approached and explained we couldn't use the carts, that they had to help us in order to use them so he proceeded to help us unload the car (this was an anime convention so we had a ton of costuming stuff etc that we didn't like to be touched as we really are the only ones who know how to handle them) which only took a few minutes really. After we got everything loaded onto the cart he directed us inside to the bell attendant. He stood there staring as us for a moment so we asked him if we could go up and he proceeds with "What room?" so we kind of look at him confused being that he should have asked this before we had to ask why he was staring and also in a much nicer manner.

Part 2 since this was too long: Hotel cont: We told him and he said he would meet us there. We get back to the room and some of us go to park the car and he eventually shows up practically throwing out items on the floor and beds and then stands there. I feel like a tip is completely dependent on satisfaction with services provided so I was not offering. As he left he proceeded to very loudly blast my sister and I for not tipping. Right after this happened a phone call came in from a friend that said the valet attendant let him into the deck to check for parking and that there were multiple spots. I felt as if they wanted us to valet park to spend more money as our self park for the con was discounted. We went down and spoke to a manager. This should have been the end of it but alas I was woken around 6 in the morning with the maid service door buzzing across the hall as well as them screaming at each other down the hall and laughing extremely loudly. Thankfully another guest asked them to quiet down. When we requested toilet paper we where met with a shrewd "Fine, ok" and then when we requested more coffee and towels it took hours for them to arrive. Finally, when we where leaving the parking deck, after paying for parking and the bill, the card wouldn't swipe. The man came over and when we told him he shrugged. We sat there a moment until he finally asked where our bill was which we stated had been packed in the back of the car with everything else and alas, another shrug.

Part 3: We sat there trying to discuss backing up to unpack while other cars where behind us when he stated if we gave him $20 in cash we could leave, which we did in order to get out! The rest of our close group, who stayed in another room because there are 11 of us, signed up for a double room with 6 guests and was given a single room in the old ugly part of the hotel with no fridge and a toilet you could barely fit on. Not to mention that I collected a HUGE wad of dog/human hair from the middle of the floor and kept it to show the front desk the uncleanliness. We have also met other con-goers in the same hotel with the same experiences. So ultimately, none of us will be returning to his hotel or this convention as long as it is held on the premises and I am completely and UTTERLY disappointed as being treated this way. We have been doing this for 6-10 years and doing multiple cons a year and have NEVER been treated as third class citizens. Service should always be provided with a smile and to the best of ones ability and that is NOT what you get at this hotel.

Last part, I swear. Lol: Con: Would have enjoyed myself if I could find things. And didn't have to stand in line for the cabaret and the dance WAY past time to start. The worst was getting kicked out of the dance because my bf was "putting his hands in his pockets" as if dealing drugs? Sorry that normal people do the same things drug dealers do but checking his phone and scratching his balls isn't exactly illegal. So he expressed his disappointment to the security head but our entire con was ruined at this point with waiting in lines and this. So far, all 11 of our close group is seriously considering not returning but you never know.

>>6408089
Yea, the hotel wouldnt allow anyone use the carts without a bellhop. The fact that the garage said full was bullshit, my fiance drove riiight into the garage.
Some parts were blocked off with cones, I assume we were SUPPOSED to have the cars valet parked but we didn't.

>>6408079
I suppose? If so, they should've used an area up the stairs that was pretty empty. It mildly annoyed us was all. But it was some Psy and Micheal Jackson cosplayer.

>>6408103
Call customer service and tell them about your stay. Demand to speak to a supervisor.
Did you check your reciept? I got charged 189.00 a night instead of the 149.00 I have not been refunded yet so tomorrow I have to call up customer service.

>>6408089
Even thought it's a Marriott, it isn't exactly a cheap-o hotel where they have some carts lying around for people to use. In fact, a lot of "upper level" hotels won't let you just get carts without a bell hop, that's nothing new. Basically if you see people out front working for the hotel and waiting to assist guests, you should assume that they will be the ones handling carts. If it's a place where no one is out front and you walk in to the lobby and take care of your own stuff, carts are free game.

Most of the housekeeping staff on my floor were non-native English speakers so I don't think our ladies were "rude" they just couldn't communicate effectively or respond the best way to us, but we still got what we needed. Was that the case for your floor?

As to getting out of the lot, I always have my bill in my car and the key card. I ran into a problem with that at the Gaylord a few years ago and had packed my bill but my key card did swipe so I could get out. Now I know to have both in case one isn't what the attendant wants.

>>6408104
I got in Friday night and figure all the self-park shit was taken, but now I'm beginning to wonder if that was the case. The "garage full" signs were up but... like really, what happens if you go to the ticket machine and press the button for one if the lot IS actually full?

Regardless of the type of hotel, to be told in the manner and have a whistle blown at you isn't acceptable. I've never been here or to this type of hotel so information is appreciated but on in an acceptably kind manner.

The staff on our floor was a combination of both. This woman may not had spoken english well, but her huffiness was unmistakable.

And we will have our bill from here on own, but to be shrugged at as if there's nothing to be done is unacceptable as well. I've never been spoken to so rudely.

Sorry, not so good at typing on my nook :p

>>6408239
The folks out front were not exactly the most organized and when I got there and they seemed like they'd had enough shit from everyone soooo that made it awkward and sort of hostile. They probably snapped at anyone unless you looked like you were oozing dolla bills to tip them with.

Some idiots from the con weren't helping either when they were skittering across the driveway area, weaving between vehicles that were moving, jumping in front of vehicles. Seriously, what the fuck, get your shit together and if you want to go somewhere outside the hotel, use the fucking sidewalks.

>>6408154
Well, the slot machines were jacked but someone comes out to help you if thats the case. Because it happened to us on our way out.

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On Sun. me and my Gf were waiting in the bag check line that made a big U shape. We had been in the line for about 15 min. or so when this guy in a shitty business suit and his little brief case and small rolling suitcase. Asked an attendant who was keeping the shape of the line and directing traffic, in a very exasperated (do I have to deal with this) tone "Is this the baggage check line?" The attendant said "Yes, ... hang on, come with me."

Took the guy to the front of the line and checked his bag for him! And when my Gf asked the attendant why he got special treatment. the guy goes "Because he....uhhh"

THEN HE LITERALLY JUST TURNED AND WALKED AWAY!!!

like it wasn't worth his time to explain or that he didn't care or expect anyone to call him out on it!

We made sure to tell a manger about that one!

>>6408100
I had a sort of similar but also weird experience trying to get out of the Woodley deck, when I went to leave someone came up to my car saying "you give me 40 cash now you can leave." And I counted my cash, but didn't have enough. He asked, "how much you have?" and I answered that I had 20, he said "that good". He proceeded to take my cash and then let me out of the gate. I have no idea if it was a scam or not, but $20 beats the $60 the deck was charging me. Which is disgusting for parking from 1am Saturday to 4pm Sunday.

On a similar note I tried to get something to eat at the McDonalds across the street, but someone picked up my order before me and when I asked where my food was she looked at my ticket and told me, "sorry your food is gone." She argued that with me until I told her "I have no food, I paid for food and I'm going to get my food." Thankfully that complaint got me the biscuit I wanted. Goddamn.

I have a feeling DC area hotels/convention centers are starting to be leery of cons due to a combination of immature attendees (mostly homosuck trolls with paint all over the walls nowadays who either started being obnoxious with that or who used to be weeaboos, but it also includes current weeaboos and other unsavory sorts) and the stigma from that... Washington Post article, I think it was, on Otakon. You know, the one that made it seem like anime fans were all little girls, perverted men, and women who didn't give a shit about the men perving on the girls.

So that's my hypothesis as to why the hotel's handling of the con and its guests/attendees was so shitty, but I could be wrong. They might just not be used to it.

>>6408393
That reminds me that on Friday I ordered a double quarter pounder with cheese plain, but ended up getting one without cheese, just the burgers and the buns. I was in a hurry so I didn't argue but I couldn't help but wonder if I picked up someone else's order by mistake and they ended up getting my cheese.

Wow, I'm surprised by how many people disliked this con. I had a lot more fun here than I did at this year's Otakon or Katsucon. I admit there were hiccups but that's more telling of how shitty Katsu and Ota were than anything. Not to say they were shitty, but ah, you know.

>>6405980
Staffer speaking,
and Im gonna let ya finish...but let me stop ya there and say. as far as the con in general, in many aspects agreed, panels. agree (but that was the result of another set of issues that "will not be a problem in the future as a result")

>>6408096
Sounds like the same guy we got. We were in the process of loading our own luggage into the car (two small sized suitcases) when he sped to do it, then stood waiting pointedly for a tip. I apologized for not having cash on me and he just scowled and rolled his eyes.

Dude we didn't even call for you.

Maybe the secret is to roll in wearing a suit so the hotel staff isn't assholeish to you, then you can nerd out once checked in. Upon checkout on Sunday, back to the suit.

>>6408416
First staffer speaking. No, trust me, they won't. The people responsible are quite aware of the issues, including those of the signs. They apparently have plans and workarounds already for next year, after testing things Sunday.

>>6407653
Hey man, between the three of us, I was the most critical of the Aggron because I actually knew what the hell I was looking at and what flaws to look for, heh. But it still certainly deserved it.
As for our judges awards: Yes. Yes we damn right would pick those.

>>6408474
I do this often (at last a nice shirt and tie) and it works nicely. Though this time was a case of, unload the car, and go park while the gf deals with it.

>Hotel
Didn't stay there, but discovered Saturday night that Wardman Tower is freaking gorgeous. Wish I found it sooner.
>Staff
Never really interacted with them.
>Masquerade
Having not gone to masquerades in a while, it seemed pretty efficiently run. I wish the audio would be clearer; it was a bit hard to hear certain things.
>Con in general
Pretty chill con--basically went there to relax. Met a bunch of awesome people. Ukraine and Voxane, it was so nice hanging out with you!

Reading through I'm really surprised about the negative experiences with the hotel. The parking sign that said it was full, was probably b.s. Next year I am going to drive in and try it. Sat night there were a lot of cars going in and none coming out. Only reason I know is cause we were taking pictures around the entrance to the garage. I think they were really trying to push people to do valet. While I would have preferred to not do that, it was easy getting out on Sun. They only charged us for two nights for $70, which is not as bad as I thought it was going to be.

Food for thought, a trick I've learned and tested it this time half on accident and half not. So, I booked a king bed room forgetting that my friend was going to be rooming with us. I couldn't change my reservation as all the double bed rooms were booked. Talked to the clerk at check in, asking to change to a double. He confirms all are booked, but he upgrades us to a room with a little sitting area. We order a cot, and I only get charged for a standard room.

Plus, my clerk was a nerd and he was really excited about the con. I think that was also in my favor.

>>6407630

Yunalesca was honorable mention novice and I (Ibuki) placed first in novice craftsmanship. Those are the only ones I remember.

It was my first time really competing so I was terribly excited to walk out with something, let alone the best novice award :-X squee ~

>>6408575
>Con Pro's
Location -Really liked the layout more than last year. Things were confusing, but that really has to do more with getting used to the new location. Bonus - no issues with the elevators where we were located.

Board game room - I only went once, but I really enjoyed the time I was in there. That is probably one of my favorite activities that was provided by the con.

Staff- I had no issues with the staff. I had my badge checked all weekend, and no one yelled at me that it was attached to my purse instead to myself. Thank you for that.

>Con's
The events were lack luster. Reading through I sympathize with the issues of the panel schedule, but I'm finding more and more con's are all forgetting that panels are a bulk of entertainment for some. I went to 2 panels this year, and I did enjoy them but at the same time for me panels are really what I look forward to.

Dealers/AA - Was meh, when you got to 3 to 4 cons a year all the dealers become one blend of meh. AA really didn't have a lot of people in it, and it was confusing that some artists were outside dealers where registration was... I didn't understand that.

>Con Overall
I'm finding I'm relying less for the con to provide me entertainment. Which is sad as I'm paying for a badge, but this is a trend I'm finding for most cons. I am making more cosplay friends, and that is really what made this con for me. It was a really nice location to hang out with friends. I am willing to pay for a badge to come again next year, where I'm considering not for Otakon. I enjoyed this con so much more than Otakon. I was able to enjoy taking pictures with friends and having photoshoots in a nice location. It wasn't over crowded and stressful.

I'd give it a C for events but and A for new location and better atmosphere.

One thing that would be great to see would be more "workshop" kinds of panels. I had an awesome time at the origami panel my friends dragged me to. Unfortunately it was in a tiny-ass panel room with no tables etc. so folding was sort of trickier but nothing that couldn't be done. I felt bad though, they turned away a number of people then had to kick a bunch out in the middle of the time for max occupancy reasons.

I love workshops or things you can actively participate in.

>>6408986
Well, the reason they're making the con earlier next year is so they can book more and larger rooms so that workshop rooms can have ample space and so that panels expected to get many guests can also get larger rooms. Not to mention, having more panels in general. Or so the story goes...

I'm really mostly excited to learn that they apparently are actually actively trying to get guests I would like to see who had to cancel but expressed disappointment in having to cancel. Namely Laura Bailey and Stephanie Sheh... Here's hoping.

Oh and that next year's theme is Edo means I'm probably going to work on a samurai-themed cosplay. Maybe something from Samurai Warriors or Sengoku Basara, even though those are pre-edo.

>>6409083
The con is what, middle of September next year? A roommate was talking about this but didn't know exact dates. I guess the bump forward is OK if they get the benefits you mentioned.

>>6406744
What a shame, it would of been perfect with them! If you know her be sure to tell her how awesome she is for me. I didn't tell her enough in the 2 times I saw her.

>>6408575
70? Are you kidding? I got charged 40.00 parked myself though

>>6409290
The Anon actually got a better deal than normal. Valet was $39/night.

They did some weird shit on the room bill because the room was in my friend's name and I paid for my car separately but they did it by crediting the room bill and charged me 1 night of valet and 2 nights of self park even though I was only there to account for 2 nights of parking.

>>6405793
Everyone thinks homestuck is annoying

>>6406016
FUCKING FANTASTIC

>>6409463
Inorite? I saw the one dressed as Mary when she went to get her award at the masq. Then when I saw the entire group hanging around the lobby, it just made it that much cooler. Ukraine's picture is much clearer than the one I took too but totally saving it for the memories.

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>hotel
It was sorta confusing for the first day, but it wasn't too hard to figure out after a bit of wandering around.
I stayed at the Omni Shoreham down the street; the one Katsu used to be at. Did anyone else know it's supposed to be haunted? I'm not sure how it escaped my friends and I all those years we went to katsu there. But anyway our room was GORGEOUS with a wonderful view from our balcony (pic related). We also had free drinks delivered to us in the morning, which was nice. The staff was wonderful and very helpful when I lost my phone.
>staff
I didn't have any problems with any of the staff really. My friend lost her credit card at one point (we believe on friday night when we were getting our IDs checked for the 18+ panels) and we think that staffers turned it in. There weren't any charges on it or anything.
Sorta random, but the wait staff of Harry's Pub was awful. She gave us an attitude when we asked for a split check (between four people, not a huge amount) halfway through our meal. She also seemed very impatient while my friend was freaking out when she couldn't find her card.

>>6409496

>cont
>masquerade
Absolutely awful. I was sitting right in front of the "entertainment" they provided for us in the line, and I felt like I was being tortured. Her voice was nice, but she was waaayy too overdramatic and no one cared about her songs about polio or flying munchkins or whatever.
I know I've seen Speed Racer before, but I never remember him being this....terrifying.
None of them were good, but I guess Erisaka's group sucked the least, so sure.
>con in general
It was interesting. I ended up losing my phone, then finding it, and then my friend lost her wallet, and found it. There were very few fellow nerds at the Omni, and there was a "old lawyer school" convention going on there as well, so it was a little awkward walking out in cosplay.
Like everyone else said, toooooo much homestuck. Homestuck everywhere. Painting themselves in bathrooms as I'm trying to wash my hands. Almost hitting my friends with their giant horns. Just being all around obnoxious.
I had a problem with these two girls hogging the Just Dance/parapara dance game for literally probably about an hour, doing tutorials several times, but that's not the con's fault.
I had fun as Twisted Briar Rose, though
Overall, I'm not sure if I'll be coming back. $60 was a lot to spend for such a small con with so few impressive costumes.

>>6409496
>herp derp triple post thought I resized my picture oops

The skits in the masquerade were awful, sorry. TERRIBLE. If I was judge I would give all the trophies to myself. It's not hard to practice.

But actually I would've given a 'you tried' trophy to the banshee singing and spinning around trying to entertain the crowd waiting to get seated. She gave me a headache but she was kind of pretty so idk.

I thought speed racer was literally retarded but then I saw him later and I don't think he is. i dont even know what to say about it is was really fucking weird though

in regards to homestuck, shout out to the one with the long horns to the side, like a bull, who almost hit my face with them. next time ill snap them in half yolo

dealers room. it was kind of small and the selection wasn't great but due to the sandy storm i realize some dealers had to retract which is totally understandable. i ended up getting a jake the dog plush lol.

general. if you're about to cut someone off in the hallway, say EXCUSE ME for gods sake. just pushing someone out of the way is really fucking rude.

game room. me and my friends really enjoyed the dance games, specifically the ones on the kinect. it was a lot of fun during the times we got to play. some people obviously don't know what the term sharing means but thats okay.

overall, i enjoyed hanging out with my friends and having a weekend off of schoolwork. it was refreshing.

>>6409541
>If I was judge I would give all the trophies to myself.
Troll judge is best judge.

Erisaka's group was actually cute, I saw them practicing like 3 hours on thursday and friday (we were on the same floor) I think the girl with he lighting bolts in her hair was what fucked them up the most. I feel bad with people saying they sucked because she [eri] worked really hard, I heard she made all the wigs and all but 1 of the uniforms. The one with the ponytail was over dramatic and I thought that was hilarious.
The other skits where not bad, Doctor who/Sailor Moon was really fun and probably my favorite.
I AM FUCKING GLAD THE CUPCAKES DID NOT PERFORM LIKE THEY DO EVERY YEAR. I can not be the only person tired of watching them flail around a fucking flag and call it original, with long ass pauses. Lady Ava did nothing but dance skits too, just with 12 people at a time. Same with Ambrosia, so I don't even know why people are all up in arms about great skits lacking.

however, Speed racer I think was trying to be The Rock. And freaked me the fuck out to the point i got up and went to the bathroom just to not have to watch him.

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Is there any footage of the skits? Specifically speed racer, so I can see what you all are on about.

>>6409500
>There were very few fellow nerds at the Omni
I never saw any other con goers at the Omni. It felt weird going to an anime convention and having such a peaceful hotel.
>two girls hogging the Just Dance/parapara
I had a similar problem with a girl hogging the iPads with Jubeat on them all weekend. Every time I went in the game room she was there. Even on Sunday still playing on the easiest difficulty. I hate these people, I shouldn't have to make you notice theres others who want to play.

>>6409630
Seconding this. What is the Speed Racer everyone is talking about?

>>6409663
it was odd. Especially since I still associate the Omni with Katsu's of years gone by. You weren't on the 8th floor, were you? It's haunted, apparently.
And yeah, it was awful. I was standing right behind them. They would look at me and keep on doing their tutorial. Once they FINALLY left I played one song, during which they came back and sat in the chair right next to me, staring like I had taken their game. Some people be straight up rude, yo.

Speed got on stage, stared SCREAMING about how glad "Speed" was to be back, started mumbling, said something into the mic, started mumbling again, and then yelled again at the judges about how they were "checking speed out, giving speed the eye" etc etc. And then he walked off. It wasn't so much that he forgot his lines or anything, but that, as the one anon put it, he went from 0 to 100. From mumbling to yelling like he didn't have a mic in his hand.

>>6409723
Oh man, Almost! I was on the 7th but it could of easily been 8th. I asked for a room on the higher floors cause I like pretty views. I guess i'm lucky though, I don't think i'd be too stoked about a ghost in my room.

I don't normally attend masquerades in the first place because they're always so awkward. I can only imagine how bad it must of been when something like that took place. But i'm also pretty curious. I hope a video pops up some time so i can see.

>>6409778
Oh, weird, we were on the 7th too!
.....even though we asked for a lower floor to make sure we weren't on the "haunted" one.
Check ACParadise in a bit, they usually have them

>>6409723
>>6409778
>>6409810

Shit's legit. We stayed on floor 8 the first year Katsu was in the Omni. I took a picture of a friend when she was sitting in the chair, and there was a perfectly formed black shaowman behind her. We tried to replicate the photo to no avail.

I had an old-ass flip phone in those days, so I don't have the picture any more... so I guess "no pics, didn't happen?" Sorry for wasting your time.

Any more pictures from AUSA?