AnimeNYC 2023 was particularly special because of just how much anime continues to grow. More obscure, niche titles like my all-time-favorite manga Delicious in Dungeon are getting anime adaptations and creatives in both the American and Japanese side of things are getting the recognition and appreciation they deserve. It’s truly a great time to be an anime fan.

This is why I love local, smaller cons like Dover Comic Con. It’s the people, the sheer variety of art, and the love of pop culture that brings us all together.

If there’s one thing this spring’s Monster Mania has taught me, it’s that art comes in all shapes and sizes. From bleached clothes to horror sculptures and illustration, to even beef jerky – there’s no limit to what people can create.

Because of my enjoyable experience @ NYCC 2021, I opted to attend this year’s New York Comic Con for all four days, coming at a cost of several hundred dollars for the privilege.

G-Fest is a gift, not just to me, but to everyone. I am honored to be a part of it, and I can’t wait to come back next year. G-Fest forever!

On June 18th, I was fortunate enough to experience Dover Comic Con, a festival held for and in celebration of local artists and organizations. I was able to meet, greet and interview some of the wonderful people out there selling their merch and promoting their art. It was amazing.

Held twice a year in Cherry Hill, South Jersey, I’d attended Monster Mania in the past, but largely just to shop for hard-to-find movies and amazing fanfare. This year however, I had the distinction of attending not only as a fan, but as a reporter for RGN99. I loved every minute of it…

AnimeNYC 2021 reminded me of just how diverse a medium anime is, and that’s exactly why I adore it so much.