[{"nid":"1112","title":"Guest Announcement: Amelie Belcher","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, we\u0027ve been her fan for years and love to have her at our convention. Please welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/amelie-belcher\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAmelie Belcher\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to Naka-Kon 2024!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAmelie is an award winning artist, comic artist, manga ka, illustrator, painter, sculptor, podcaster, twitch streamer, and currently a second year tattoo apprentice. With over 20 years experience in the convention industry, Amelie loves to share her knowledge of the arts with young creative people no matter what stage of their artistic journey they are currently in. Have a question? Ask her! She loves to talk!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, we\u0027ve been her fan for years and love to have her at our convention. Please welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/amelie-belcher\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAmelie Belcher\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to Naka-Kon 2024!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Mon, 29 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-04\/Guest-2024-AmelieBelcher.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-04-29\/guest-announcement-amelie-belcher","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1110","title":"Cos-lesque is Back!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are excited to announce that we will be bringing back \u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\/cos-lesque-18\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECoslesque\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E! What is Coslesque you ask? Cos-lesque is a cosplay-themed burlesque show showcasing theatrical strip teases, this year featuring \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/cos-lesque-performers\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Edazzling performers from Foxy By Proxy Revue\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E! This will be an 18+ ticketed event. Keep an eye out on our social media channels for more info and to find out when tickets go on sale!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are excited to announce that we will be bringing back \u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\/cos-lesque-18\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ECoslesque\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E! What is Coslesque you ask? Cos-lesque is a cosplay-themed burlesque show showcasing theatrical strip teases, this year featuring \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/cos-lesque-performers\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Edazzling performers from Foxy By Proxy Revue\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E! This will be an 18+ ticketed event. Keep an eye out on our social media channels for more info and to find out when tickets go on sale!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-04\/cos-lesque%20-%20square.png","gallery_images":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2024-04\/Nerdy%20Nita-01.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2024-04\/Mx%20Diagnosed-01.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2024-04\/Carma%20Lea-01.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2024-04\/Eucalyptus%20Soft-01.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2024-04\/Prince%20Darling-01.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2024-04\/Freyja%20Delphine-01.jpg","youtube":"","tags":"Guests, 2024, 18+","link":"\/news\/2024-04-18\/cos-lesque-back","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1108","title":"Guest Announcement: K!LL SCREEN","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, are you ready to party? Then please welcome K!LL SCREEN! \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/kll-screen\u0022\u003EK!LL SCREEN\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E [He\/Him] is a club, convention, and rave DJ from Richmond, VA. He has spent over a decade crafting his signature sound described simply as \u201cHIGH NRG | FAST AF | STUPID MUSIC\u201d. He has performed all over the country at several events including MAGFest, San Japan, Colossalcon, Katsucon, and many more. Expect to hear anything and everything from heavy metal to jpop to speedcore.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, are you ready to party? Then please welcome K!LL SCREEN! \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/kll-screen\u0022\u003EK!LL SCREEN\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E [He\/Him] is a club, convention, and rave DJ from Richmond, VA. He has spent over a decade crafting his signature sound described simply as \u201cHIGH NRG | FAST AF | STUPID MUSIC\u201d. He has performed all over the country at several events including MAGFest, San Japan, Colossalcon, Katsucon, and many more. Expect to hear anything and everything from heavy metal to jpop to speedcore.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Mon, 15 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-04\/KILL%20SCREEN.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"Guests, 2024","link":"\/news\/2024-04-15\/guest-announcement-kll-screen","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1106","title":"Guest Announcement: Lex Lang","body":"\u003Cp\u003EDon\u0027t lose your mind over our next voice guest, Lex Lang! Lex Lang is a veteran voice actor with an extensive background in Animation, Anime, Video Games, TV and blockbuster films. Lex is currently starring as Suguru Geto in the international hit anime film and series Jujutsu Kaisen.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EDon\u0027t lose your mind over our next voice guest, Lex Lang! Lex Lang is a veteran voice actor with an extensive background in Animation, Anime, Video Games, TV and blockbuster films. Lex is currently starring as Suguru Geto in the international hit anime film and series Jujutsu Kaisen.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Sat, 13 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-04\/Guest-2024-LexLang.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-04-13\/guest-announcement-lex-lang","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1104","title":"Guest Announcement: Sandy Fox","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, you can never have too many friends. So please welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/sandy-fox\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESandy Fox\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! Sandy has been voicing characters in Anime, Animation, Video Games for over 30 years. She began her career in the entertainment industry working for The Walt Disney Company performing in hundreds of live stage shows as a singer, dancer and comedic talent. You know her as Hello Kitty, Chibiusa, and many many more!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, you can never have too many friends. So please welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/sandy-fox\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESandy Fox\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! Sandy has been voicing characters in Anime, Animation, Video Games for over 30 years. She began her career in the entertainment industry working for The Walt Disney Company performing in hundreds of live stage shows as a singer, dancer and comedic talent. You know her as Hello Kitty, Chibiusa, and many many more!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Fri, 12 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-04\/Guest-2024-SandyFox.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-04-12\/guest-announcement-sandy-fox","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1102","title":"New Overflow Hotel Room Blocks","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - the Holiday Inn and Courtyard by Marriott - Metcalf overflow room blocks are sold out! We have added convention room blocks at two hotels: Quality Inn and Hampton Inn, both located off of I-435 and Metcalf and about a mile away from the convention center. Both hotel room rates include complimentary breakfast. Please \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/hotels\u0022\u003Evisit the Hotel Page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E for additional information and directions to reserve the rooms.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - the Holiday Inn and Courtyard by Marriott - Metcalf overflow room blocks are sold out! We have added convention room blocks at two hotels: Quality Inn and Hampton Inn, both located off of I-435 and Metcalf and about a mile away from the convention center. Both hotel room rates include complimentary breakfast. Please \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/hotels\u0022\u003Evisit the Hotel Page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E for additional information and directions to reserve the rooms.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Thu, 04 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-04\/hotel-block-update.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, hotel","link":"\/news\/2024-04-04\/new-overflow-hotel-room-blocks","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1101","title":"Guest Announcement: Briana Lawrence \u0026amp; Jessica Walsh","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - please welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/briana-lawrence-jessica-walsh\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBriana Lawrence and Jessica Walsh\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to Naka-Kon 2024!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EOver 20 years ago Briana Lawrence and Jessica Walsh (Snow) were two fanfiction writing ladies who geeked out over Gundam Wing boys and Resident Evil. Now? They\u2019re still geeks and still have their fandoms, but they\u2019re also a married couple who write books, wear nerdy outfits and do their best to keep their three butt-head cats in line. They\u2019re failing. Send help.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWhen going to conventions, Briana and Snow always bring their best. You can get lost in their books\u2014or heck\u2014you can come by for a selfie and fun conversations about anime, ships, or video games. Use caution, because if you start a conversation about \u0022Tears of the Kingdom\u0022 or the criminally underrated \u0022Kids on the Slope\u0022 they may not let you leave!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - please welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/briana-lawrence-jessica-walsh\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EBriana Lawrence and Jessica Walsh\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to Naka-Kon 2024!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EOver 20 years ago Briana Lawrence and Jessica Walsh (Snow) were two fanfiction writing ladies who geeked out over Gundam Wing boys and Resident Evil. Now? They\u2019re still geeks and still have their fandoms, but they\u2019re also a married couple who write books, wear nerdy outfits and do their best to keep their three butt-head cats in line. They\u2019re failing. Send help.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-04\/Guest-2024-Briana_and_Jessica.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"Guests, 2024","link":"\/news\/2024-04-03\/guest-announcement-briana-lawrence-jessica-walsh","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1097","title":"Guest Update: WATWING","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - we regret to inform you that WATWING will not be able to attend Naka-Kon 2024 due to unforeseen circumstances. We apologize to those who were looking forward to their performances and appreciate your understanding. We will continue to work hard in hopes of being able to host them sometime in the future.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u30ca\u30ab\u30b3\u30f3\u306e\u6765\u5834\u8005\u3078\uff1a\u6b8b\u5ff5\u306a\u304c\u3089WATWING\u306f\u4e88\u671f\u305b\u306c\u4e8b\u60c5\u306b\u3088\u308a\u4e2d\u30b3\u30f32024\u306b\u53c2\u52a0\u3067\u304d\u306a\u304f\u306a\u308a\u307e\u3057\u305f\u3002\u30b3\u30f3\u30b5\u30fc\u30c8\u3092\u697d\u3057\u307f\u306b\u3057\u3066\u304f\u3060\u3055\u3063\u3066\u3044\u305f\u7686\u69d8\u306b\u306f\u3001\u5fc3\u3088\u308a\u304a\u8a6b\u3073\u7533\u3057\u4e0a\u3052\u307e\u3059\u3002\u3054\u7406\u89e3\u306e\u307b\u3069\u3001\u4f55\u5352\u3088\u308d\u3057\u304f\u304a\u9858\u3044\u81f4\u3057\u307e\u3059\u3002\u3044\u3064\u304b\u307e\u305f\u3001\u4e2d\u30b3\u30f3\u304cWatwing\u306e\u30a4\u30d9\u30f3\u30c8\u3092\u4e3b\u50ac\u3067\u304d\u308b\u3053\u3068\u3092\u9858\u3063\u3066\u3001\u4eca\u5f8c\u3082\u52aa\u529b\u3057\u3066\u307e\u3044\u308a\u307e\u3059\u3002\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - we regret to inform you that WATWING will not be able to attend Naka-Kon 2024 due to unforeseen circumstances. We apologize to those who were looking forward to their performances and appreciate your understanding. We will continue to work hard in hopes of being able to host them sometime in the future.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u30ca\u30ab\u30b3\u30f3\u306e\u6765\u5834\u8005\u3078\uff1a\u6b8b\u5ff5\u306a\u304c\u3089WATWING\u306f\u4e88\u671f\u305b\u306c\u4e8b\u60c5\u306b\u3088\u308a\u4e2d\u30b3\u30f32024\u306b\u53c2\u52a0\u3067\u304d\u306a\u304f\u306a\u308a\u307e\u3057\u305f\u3002\u30b3\u30f3\u30b5\u30fc\u30c8\u3092\u697d\u3057\u307f\u306b\u3057\u3066\u304f\u3060\u3055\u3063\u3066\u3044\u305f\u7686\u69d8\u306b\u306f\u3001\u5fc3\u3088\u308a\u304a\u8a6b\u3073\u7533\u3057\u4e0a\u3052\u307e\u3059\u3002\u3054\u7406\u89e3\u306e\u307b\u3069\u3001\u4f55\u5352\u3088\u308d\u3057\u304f\u304a\u9858\u3044\u81f4\u3057\u307e\u3059\u3002\u3044\u3064\u304b\u307e\u305f\u3001\u4e2d\u30b3\u30f3\u304cWatwing\u306e\u30a4\u30d9\u30f3\u30c8\u3092\u4e3b\u50ac\u3067\u304d\u308b\u3053\u3068\u3092\u9858\u3063\u3066\u3001\u4eca\u5f8c\u3082\u52aa\u529b\u3057\u3066\u307e\u3044\u308a\u307e\u3059\u3002\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-04\/WATWING%20Canceled.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-04-02\/guest-update-watwing","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1096","title":"Live Q\u0026amp;A about the Winter Cosplay Championship","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Naka-Kon Mainstage Cosplay Contest application opens today at 6:00 p.m.! \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\/showcase\/main-stage-contest\u0022\u003ERead over the rules and access the application here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIn anticipation of the event, we will also be hosting a live Q\u0026amp;A about the Winter Cosplay Championship on April 8 at 7:00 p.m. CT streamed live in the Official Naka-Kon Cosplay Group! To tune in, simply join the group. There will be a recording for you to watch later. If you would like to submit questions ahead of time, you can fill out this form.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/forms.gle\/kiABCudRKDZ4KXzi9\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMain Stage Question Submission Form\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022small\u0022\u003ECosplay by Lydia Heartwell\u003Cbr \/\u003E\nPhotograph by C. Mason Photography\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Naka-Kon Mainstage Cosplay Contest application opens today at 6:00 p.m.! \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\/showcase\/main-stage-contest\u0022\u003ERead over the rules and access the application here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-03\/website-CMason%20Naka%20Cosplay%20Contest%20Blue%20Dress.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Cosplay Contest, WCC","link":"\/news\/2024-04-02\/live-qa-about-winter-cosplay-championship","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1095","title":"Guest Announcement: Diana Tolin","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are so excited that Diana \u0022Binkxy\u0022 Tolin is Returning to Naka-kon! She was originally coming to facilitate the WCC integration efforts with the Mainstage Cosplay Contest, but she has graciously agreed to step in as a Mainstage Cosplay Contest judge!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EDiana Tolin has been an award winning cosplayer and member of the Anime industry for almost 30 years and has worked with some of the largest companies and conventions in the world including Marvel Entertainment, Nintendo of America, Square Enix, Aniplex, Anime Expo and World Cosplay Summit. As the Director of Cosplay at Holiday Matsuri, she has helped to develop the Winter Cosplay Championship, the largest qualifier of international cosplay events in the United States. She has been a guest curator and speaker for the world of cosplay and has worked with Japan Foundation New York and the Japan Information and Cultural Center, Embassy of Japan in Washington DC.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are so excited that Diana \u0022Binkxy\u0022 Tolin is Returning to Naka-kon! She was originally coming to facilitate the WCC integration efforts with the Mainstage Cosplay Contest, but she has graciously agreed to step in as a Mainstage Cosplay Contest judge!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sat, 30 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-Diana%20Tolin.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests, Cosplay, Cosplay Contest","link":"\/news\/2024-03-30\/guest-announcement-diana-tolin","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1093","title":"Guest Update: Teca Cosplay","body":"\u003Cp\u003EHello Naka-ma! We have an update regarding our cosplay guest lineup for 2024. Teca Cosplay will be unable to join us for the show this year due to an unforeseeable conflict. We hope to see her at a future event. We will announce a new mainstage judge soon!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EHello Naka-ma! We have an update regarding our cosplay guest lineup for 2024. Teca Cosplay will be unable to join us for the show this year due to an unforeseeable conflict. We hope to see her at a future event. We will announce a new mainstage judge soon!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-03\/Inari-Kun%20Sorry%202.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-03-26\/guest-update-teca-cosplay","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1092","title":"Main Stage Cosplay Contest 2024","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe\u0027re serving up some hot and fresh cosplay event information for Naka-Kon 2024! The website has been updated to reflect updated information for all of the 2024 Cosplay events, including the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\/showcase\/main-stage-contest\u0022\u003EMain Stage Contest\u003C\/a\u003E and our brand new collaboration with Holiday Matsuri for the Naka-Kon x Holiday Matsuri WCC Delegate Contest! We\u2019ve also got tasty updates for the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\/showcase\/hallway-contest\u0022\u003EHallway Cosplay Contest\u003C\/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\/showcase\/cos-parade\u0022\u003ECosplay Parade\u003C\/a\u003E, and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\/showcase\/ic4\u0022\u003EIC4\u003C\/a\u003E! Check out the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\u0022\u003Ecosplay pages\u003C\/a\u003E for more information, and as always, email \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:cosplay@naka-kon.com\u0022\u003Ecosplay@naka-kon.com\u003C\/a\u003E with any questions!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022small\u0022\u003EBest Master Overall 2023: Starla Wynn and Eleksin as Alucard and Maria Renard from Castlevania\u003Cbr \/\u003E\nPhoto by C. Mason Photography\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EWe\u0027re serving up some hot and fresh cosplay event information for Naka-Kon 2024! The website has been updated to reflect updated information for all of the 2024 Cosplay events, including the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/cosplay\/showcase\/main-stage-contest\u0022\u003EMain Stage Contest\u003C\/a\u003E and our brand new collaboration with Holiday Matsuri for the Naka-Kon x Holiday Matsuri WCC Delegate Contest!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sat, 23 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-03\/website-CMason%20Naka%20Cosplay%20Contest--42.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Cosplay, Cosplay Contest, Holiday Matsuri","link":"\/news\/2024-03-23\/main-stage-cosplay-contest-2024","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1091","title":"Winter Cosplay Champion Delegate Contest!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019ve got something delicious in store for cosplayers at Naka-Kon 2024! We\u2019re extremely excited to announce our collaboration with Holiday Matsuri for an amazing new competition and prize that will be added to the Naka-Kon Mainstage Cosplay Contest: The Winter Cosplay Champion Delegate Contest! Winners of this new contest will be granted travel and accommodations for 2 to enter the WCC at Holiday Matsuri 2024! Stay tuned to the Naka-Kon social media channels tomorrow for updated cosplay contest rules, and specifics on the Winter Cosplay Championship Delegate Contest!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019ve got something delicious in store for cosplayers at Naka-Kon 2024! We\u2019re extremely excited to announce our collaboration with Holiday Matsuri for an amazing new competition and prize that will be added to the Naka-Kon Mainstage Cosplay Contest: The Winter Cosplay Champion Delegate Contest! Winners of this new contest will be granted travel and accommodations for 2 to enter the WCC at Holiday Matsuri 2024!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sat, 23 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-03\/1000002205.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"Cosplay Contest, WCC, Holiday Matsuri","link":"\/news\/2024-03-23\/winter-cosplay-champion-delegate-contest","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1090","title":"Guest Announcement: 2024 Cosplay Judges","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAlright Nakama, it\u0027s time to announce the Mainstage Cosplay Contest Judges for 2024! The judges for this year\u0027s show have a wealth of experience competing both domestically and internationally with performance and craftsmanship wins under their beautifully embellished belts. We are so excited to welcome them to the Naka-Kon family!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Chr \/\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe first of our esteemed judges is none other than \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/chibi-tifa\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EChibi Tifa\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EChibiTifa is a cosplayer from Maryland with 20 years of experience in the hobby and a World Cosplay Summit representative. She\u0027s made a vast array of costumes and has been a cosplay craftsmanship and performance judge at several conventions all over the country. As a fairly busy career woman in media, she somehow manages to balance both her work and cosplay life. Tifa makes it her mission to make the cosplay world more welcoming \u0026amp; accepting to any and all newcomers.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Chr \/\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe next Mainstage Cosplay Contest judge we\u0027re excited to introduce is the fantastic \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/meow-meow-cosplay\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMeow Meow Cosplay\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EMeow Meow Cosplay (aka Kitty) is a body-positive Illinois-based cosplayer. She has been cosplaying since 2006. A jack of all trades when it comes to costume construction, Kitty enjoys making armor and sewing the most. Known for her clean costumes and attention to detail, she holds numerous master craftsmanship and best in show titles from across the country. While her passion is in craftsmanship, she also enjoys performing on stage which has led to her representing the USA overseas. She was half of the 2018 World Cosplay Summit USA team in Nagoya, Japan and was the 2023 USA representative for the Cosplay World Masters finals in Lisbon, Portugal where she placed 3rd for the USA.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Chr \/\u003E\u003Cp\u003EThe last but certainly not least of our Mainstage Cosplay Contest judge roster is the incredible \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/teca-cosplay\u0022\u003ETeca Cosplay\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ETeca, part of the World Cosplay Summit Team USA 2020\/2022, is an award-winning cosplayer with over twenty years of experience. She has won over thirty awards as well as hosted panels and judged contests at more than twenty-five events across the country. Teca has worked as an official cosplayer for industry events, including Sailor Jupiter from Sailor Moon for VizMedia, America from Hetalia for FUNimation and Kyouko Sakura from Puella Magi Madoka Magica for Aniplex.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"Alright Nakama, it\u0027s time to announce the Mainstage Cosplay Contest Judges for 2024! The judges for this year\u0027s show have a wealth of experience competing both domestically and internationally with performance and craftsmanship wins under their beautifully embellished belts. We are so excited to welcome them to the Naka-Kon family!","published":"Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"","gallery_images":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-ChibiTifa.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-MeowMeowCosplay.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-TecaCosplay.jpg","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests, Cosplay, Cosplay Contest","link":"\/news\/2024-03-19\/guest-announcement-2024-cosplay-judges","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1086","title":"Guest Announcement: Aika Kobayashi","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - please welcome singer and voice actress \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/aika-kobayashi\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAika Kobayashi\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to Naka-Kon 2024! Nicknamed Aikyan by her fans, Kobayashi-san is best known as the voice behind school idol and Aqours member Yoshiko Tsushima from \u003Cem\u003ELove Live! Sunshine!!\u003C\/em\u003E. Anime fans may also recognize her musical talents from numerous series, including the songs\u0027 Color\/Kimi o Mamoritai\u0027 (the ending theme from the series \u003Cem\u003EFreezing\u003C\/em\u003E) and \u0027Future is Serious\u0027 (the ending theme from \u003Cem\u003EQueen\u0027s Blade Rebellion\u003C\/em\u003E). Beyond these contributions to the animated world, Kobayashi also performs as a solo artist - debuting her first major single, \u0027NO LIFE CODE\u0027 in 2020, and has released two albums thus far, Gradation Collection (2021) and syzygy (2022). Be sure not to miss her concert scheduled on Friday and Saturday night! For additional information, visit \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/aika-kobayashi\u0022\u003Eher profile page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/kobayashiaika.jp\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-link-45deg\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003Ekobayashiaika.jp\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/twitter.com\/aikyan_\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-twitter\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E@aikyan_\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/kyanstagram_\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-instagram\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E@kyanstagram_\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@user-fr9rw5lt1h\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-youtube\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E@user-fr9rw5lt1h\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - please welcome singer and voice actress \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/aika-kobayashi\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EAika Kobayashi\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E to Naka-Kon 2024! Nicknamed Aikyan by her fans, Kobayashi-san is best known as the voice behind school idol and Aqours member Yoshiko Tsushima from \u003Cem\u003ELove Live! Sunshine!!\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sat, 16 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-AikaKobayashi.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-03-16\/guest-announcement-aika-kobayashi","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1085","title":"Guest Announcement: WATWING","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - please welcome the Japanese male dance and vocal group \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/watwing\u0022\u003EWATWING\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as they spread their wings and grace the stage at Naka-Kon 2024! The six artists, Ryo Furuhata, Asahi Suzuki, Fu Takahashi, Rintaro Hachimura, Ryuta Kuwayama, and Noa Fukuzawa, have been combining their musical talents since taking the win at \u2018Star Boys Audition\u2019 in 2019 and have followed up with steady music releases and electric performances from there. Be sure not to miss this rare opportunity to experience the genuine sensation that is J-pop live when WATWING makes their first US performances on Friday and Saturday nights at Naka-Kon! For additional information visit \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/watwing\u0022\u003Eon their profile page\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/watwing-info.com\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\u0022\u0022 data-entity-type=\u0022file\u0022 data-entity-uuid=\u0022e03b1208-b819-44f1-8784-365e48c6e5ca\u0022 height=\u002248\u0022 src=\u0022\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2024-03\/watwing-home-icon.png\u0022 width=\u002248\u0022 \/\u003E Watwing-info.com\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/twitter.com\/watwing_info\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-twitter\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E@watwing_info\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/watwing_official\/\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-instagram\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E@watwing_official\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@watwing_official\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-tiktok\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E@watwing_official\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@watwingofficial2325\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-youtube\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E@watwingofficial2325\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - please welcome the Japanese male dance and vocal group \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/watwing\u0022\u003EWATWING\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as they spread their wings and grace the stage at Naka-Kon 2024! The six artists, Ryo Furuhata, Asahi Suzuki, Fu Takahashi, Rintaro Hachimura, Ryuta Kuwayama, and Noa Fukuzawa, have been combining their musical talents since taking the win at \u2018Star Boys Audition\u2019 in 2019 and have followed up with steady music releases and electric performances from there.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sat, 16 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-WATWING.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-03-16\/guest-announcement-watwing","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1082","title":"Guest Announcement: Misako Aoki","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are honored to announce that fashion model \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/misako-aoki\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMisako Aoki\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E will be a guest of honor at Naka-Kon 2024! Appointed as the \u2018Kawaii Ambassador\u2019 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, she has visited over 45 cities in 25 countries on cultural diplomacy as the leading representative of Lolita fashion. She helped found the Japan Lolita Association and served as the first president, and in addition to being a model Aoki-san also works as a nurse in Japan.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EX: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/twitter.com\/aokimisako\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Etwitter.com\/aokimisako\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\nInstagram: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/misakoaoki\/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Einstagram.com\/misakoaoki\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\nYouTube\uff1a\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCpRcWovYy8Q5kS9QqLXLAsw\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Eyoutube.com\/channel\/UCpRcWovYy8Q5kS9QqLXLAsw\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are honored to announce that fashion model \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/misako-aoki\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMisako Aoki\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E will be a guest of honor at Naka-Kon 2024! Appointed as the \u2018Kawaii Ambassador\u2019 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, she has visited over 45 cities in 25 countries on cultural diplomacy as the leading representative of Lolita fashion. She helped found the Japan Lolita Association and served as the first president, and in addition to being a model Aoki-san also works as a nurse in Japan.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-MisakoAoki.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-03-14\/guest-announcement-misako-aoki","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1080","title":"Guest Announcement: EmilyTemple cute \u0026amp; Melody BasKet","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - we are excited to share that Japanese fashion brands \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/emily-temple-cute\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmilyTemple cute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/melody-basket\u0022\u003EMelody BasKet\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E will be part of Naka-Kon 2024! Joining us from Japan will be the brand\u0027s President and Director. EmilyTemple cute and Melody BasKet specialize in fun, feminine clothing suitable for casual, otome and Lolita styles. Please check out the brand\u0027s clothing and items at the exhibit hall, fashion show, and tea party.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmily Temple cute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/emilytemplecute-shop.com\/\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-link-45deg\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E emilytemplecute-shop.com\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/emilytemplecute\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-facebook\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E @emilytemplecute\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/twitter.com\/Emily_cute2014\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-twitter\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E @Emily_cute2014\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/emilytemplecute_official\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-instagram\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E @emilytemplecute_official\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EMelody BasKet\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/fraisier-on-line.store\/ja-us\/collections\/melody-basket\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-link-45deg\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E fraisier-on-line.store\/ja-us\/collections\/melody-basket\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/twitter.com\/melodybasket\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-twitter\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E @melodybasket\u003C\/a\u003E\u003Cbr \/\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/melodybasket0000\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E\u003Ci class=\u0022bi bi-instagram\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/i\u003E @melodybasket0000\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - we are excited to share that Japanese fashion brands \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/emily-temple-cute\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EEmilyTemple cute\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/melody-basket\u0022\u003EMelody BasKet\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E will be part of Naka-Kon 2024! Joining us from Japan will be the brand\u0027s President and Director. EmilyTemple cute and Melody BasKet specialize in fun, feminine clothing suitable for casual, otome and Lolita styles. Please check out the brand\u0027s clothing and items at the exhibit hall, fashion show, and tea party.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Tue, 12 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"","gallery_images":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-EmilyTemplecute.jpg, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-MelodyBasKet.jpg","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-03-12\/guest-announcement-emilytemple-cute-melody-basket","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1075","title":"Guest Announcement: Dani Chambers","body":"\u003Cp\u003EEver want to marry a 10 foot tall cryptid and be whisked away to a magical forest forever? Please welcome our next guests \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/dani-chambers\u0022\u003EDani Chambers\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E and make sure to ask her about it. Dani made her anime debut as Chise Hatori in \u003Cem\u003EThe Ancient Magus Bride\u003C\/em\u003E. Since then, she\u0027s voiced many roles such as Becky from \u003Cem\u003ESpy x Family\u003C\/em\u003E, Nilou from \u003Cem\u003EGenshin Impact\u003C\/em\u003E, and Timerra in \u003Cem\u003EFire Emblem Engage\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003EGet your badge today\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E and join us May 24th to 26th, 2024!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EEver want to marry a 10 foot tall cryptid and be whisked away to a magical forest forever? Please welcome our next guests \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/dani-chambers\u0022\u003EDani Chambers\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E and make sure to ask her about it. Dani made her anime debut as Chise Hatori in \u003Cem\u003EThe Ancient Magus Bride\u003C\/em\u003E. Since then, she\u0027s voiced many roles such as Becky from \u003Cem\u003ESpy x Family\u003C\/em\u003E, Nilou from \u003Cem\u003EGenshin Impact\u003C\/em\u003E, and Timerra in \u003Cem\u003EFire Emblem Engage\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Wed, 06 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-Dani-Chambers.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-03-06\/guest-announcement-dani-chambers","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1073","title":"Guest Announcement: Jennifer Cihi","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAre you ready to believe in the power of Love? You better be ready to sing your heart out Nakama! Please welcome the singing voice of the Moon Princess herself, \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/jennifer-cihi\u0022\u003EJennifer Cihi\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E. Jennifer has been performing since she was a young girl where she played Pepper in the Broadway National Tour of \u003Cem\u003EAnnie\u003C\/em\u003E.\u00a0 Her most notable job is the original English singing voice of Sailor Moon. She also sang for City Hunter and Princess Mononoke.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EAre you ready to believe in the power of Love? You better be ready to sing your heart out Nakama! Please welcome the singing voice of the Moon Princess herself, \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/jennifer-cihi\u0022\u003EJennifer Cihi\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E. Jennifer has been performing since she was a young girl where she played Pepper in the Broadway National Tour of \u003Cem\u003EAnnie\u003C\/em\u003E.\u00a0 Her most notable job is the original English singing voice of Sailor Moon. She also sang for City Hunter and Princess Mononoke.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Sat, 02 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-03\/Guest-2024-JenniferCihi.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-03-02\/guest-announcement-jennifer-cihi","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1071","title":"Guest Announcement: Amanda C\u00e9line Miller","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0022\u003Cspan class=\u0022style-scope yt-formatted-string\u0022 dir=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EJupiter Power! Makeup!\u0022 \u003C\/span\u003ENakama, i\u003Cspan class=\u0022style-scope yt-formatted-string\u0022 dir=\u0022auto\u0022\u003Et\u0027s the pretty guardian of Love and Courage in a sailor suit, Sailor Jupiter! \u003C\/span\u003EPlease welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/amanda-celine-miller\u0022\u003EAmanda Miller\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! Amanda is best known for playing spunky, badass, and occasionally deranged heroines (and villains). You know her as Sailor Jupiter in the Viz dub of Sailor Moon and Sailor Moon Crystal and also as Boruto Uzumaki in Boruto: Naruto Next Generations.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-danger\u0022 href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGet you badge today\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E for Naka-Kon 2024 before the early bird rate expires at the end of February.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0022\u003Cspan class=\u0022style-scope yt-formatted-string\u0022 dir=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EJupiter Power! Makeup!\u0022 \u003C\/span\u003ENakama, i\u003Cspan class=\u0022style-scope yt-formatted-string\u0022 dir=\u0022auto\u0022\u003Et\u0027s the pretty guardian of Love and Courage in a sailor suit, Sailor Jupiter! \u003C\/span\u003EPlease welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/amanda-celine-miller\u0022\u003EAmanda Miller\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! Amanda is best known for playing spunky, badass, and occasionally deranged heroines (and villains).\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Thu, 29 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-02\/Guest-2024-AmandaMiller.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-02-29\/guest-announcement-amanda-celine-miller","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1069","title":"Guest Announcement: Anne Yatco","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0022I haven\u0027t shown you this one yet, have I?\u0022 No? Well Nakama please welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/anne-yatco\u0022\u003EAnne Yatco\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! Anne is a Filipino-American voice actor (and former forensic scientist) best known as the English voice of Nobara Kugisaki in \u003Cem\u003EJujutsu Kaisen\u003C\/em\u003E, Raiden Shogun in \u003Cem\u003EGenshin Impact\u003C\/em\u003E, and Sabine Dupain-Cheng in \u003Cem\u003EMiraculous Ladybug\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-danger\u0022 href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGet you badge today\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E for Naka-Kon 2024 before the early bird rate expires at the end of February.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0022I haven\u0027t shown you this one yet, have I?\u0022 No? Well Nakama please welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/anne-yatco\u0022\u003EAnne Yatco\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! Anne is a Filipino-American voice actor (and former forensic scientist) best known as the English voice of Nobara Kugisaki in \u003Cem\u003EJujutsu Kaisen\u003C\/em\u003E, Raiden Shogun in \u003Cem\u003EGenshin Impact\u003C\/em\u003E, and Sabine Dupain-Cheng in \u003Cem\u003EMiraculous Ladybug\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Tue, 27 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-02\/Guest-2024-AnneYatco-Web.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-02-27\/guest-announcement-anne-yatco","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1067","title":"Guest Announcement: Kaiji Tang","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Nah, I\u0027d win\u0022. Nakama, are you prepared to meet the self proclaimed strongest jujutsu sorcerer? If so, please welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/kaiji-tang\u0022\u003EKaiji Tang\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! In addition to Satoru Gojo from \u003Cem\u003EJujutsu Kaisen\u003C\/em\u003E, you may recognize Kaiji as Ichiban Kasuga from \u003Cem\u003EYakuza: Like a Dragon\u003C\/em\u003E, Guts from \u003Cem\u003EBerserk 2016\u003C\/em\u003E, and Hendricksen from \u003Cem\u003EThe Seven Deadly Sins\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-danger\u0022 href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGet you badge today\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E for Naka-Kon 2024 before the early bird rate expires at the end of February.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003E\u0022Nah, I\u0027d win\u0022. Nakama, are you prepared to meet the self proclaimed strongest jujutsu sorcerer? If so, please welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/kaiji-tang\u0022\u003EKaiji Tang\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E as our guest for Naka-Kon 2024! In addition to Satoru Gojo from \u003Cem\u003EJujutsu Kaisen\u003C\/em\u003E, you may recognize Kaiji as Ichiban Kasuga from \u003Cem\u003EYakuza: Like a Dragon\u003C\/em\u003E, Guts from \u003Cem\u003EBerserk 2016\u003C\/em\u003E, and Hendricksen from \u003Cem\u003EThe Seven Deadly Sins\u003C\/em\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sun, 25 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-02\/Guest-2024-KaijiTang-Web.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-02-25\/guest-announcement-kaiji-tang","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1065","title":"Guest Announcement: Heather Gonzalez","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, we are excited to announce our first guest for Naka-Kon 2024. Please welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/heather-gonzalez\u0022\u003EHeather Gonzalez\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E! You may recognize Heather as\u00a0Yukari Takeba from \u003Cem\u003EPersona 3 Reload\u003C\/em\u003E, Mineru from \u003Cem\u003EThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom\u003C\/em\u003E, and\u00a0Gloria Costello from \u003Cem\u003EJoJo\u0027s Bizarre Adventures\u003C\/em\u003E as well as many others.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-danger\u0022 href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EGet you badge today\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E for Naka-Kon 2024 before the early bird rate expires at the end of February.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, we are excited to announce our first guest for Naka-Kon 2024. Please welcome \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2024\/heather-gonzalez\u0022\u003EHeather Gonzalez\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E! You may recognize Heather as\u00a0Yukari Takeba from \u003Cem\u003EPersona 3 Reload\u003C\/em\u003E, Mineru from \u003Cem\u003EThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom\u003C\/em\u003E, and\u00a0Gloria Costello from \u003Cem\u003EJoJo\u0027s Bizarre Adventures\u003C\/em\u003E as well as many others.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Fri, 23 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2024-02\/2024-VA-GonzalezHeather-web.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Guests","link":"\/news\/2024-02-23\/guest-announcement-heather-gonzalez","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1063","title":"Sheraton Hotel Room Block Sold Out","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - the Sheraton Hotel Room block is sold out! If you are still looking for rooms, please visit the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/hotels\u0022\u003EHotel Page\u003C\/a\u003E to find the list of the overflow hotels.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - the Sheraton Hotel Room block is sold out! If you are still looking for rooms, please visit the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/hotels\u0022\u003EHotel Page\u003C\/a\u003E to find the list of the overflow hotels.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Sat, 10 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-02\/PR%20Hotel%20Sold%20Out-01.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"hotel, 2024","link":"\/news\/2024-02-10\/sheraton-hotel-room-block-sold-out","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1062","title":"2024 Fan Panel Applications Live!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAre you interested in becoming a Fan Panelist at Naka-Kon 2024? Head on over to \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\u0022\u003Eour programming page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E and fill out a panel application before the deadline on April 14, 2024! We know you have been sitting on some amazing ideas and we can\u0027t wait to see what panels you all bring to the table.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EAre you interested in becoming a Fan Panelist at Naka-Kon 2024? Head on over to \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\u0022\u003Eour programming page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E and fill out a panel application before the deadline on April 14, 2024! We know you have been sitting on some amazing ideas and we can\u0027t wait to see what panels you all bring to the table.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Sun, 21 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-01\/2024-panel-app-open.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, Programming","link":"\/news\/2024-01-21\/2024-fan-panel-applications-live","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1061","title":"2024 Sunflower Idol Festival at Naka-Kon","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama Idols! Applications for the 2024 Sunflower Idol Festival are now open! \u2764\ufe0e\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWe are so excited to have you join us! Please make sure to read the requirements closely before sending in your application. The submission period will be open until Saturday February 17th at 6pm CST. Final decisions will be announced on Saturday March 2nd. Keep an eye out on the email you provided. We can\u0027t wait to see your talented selves!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-primary\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/forms.gle\/xRnW5MEB9BBaHzQX7\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E2024 Sunflower Idol Fest Application\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022small note\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/skinoue626\/\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EIdolFest photography by Satoshi\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama Idols! Applications for the 2024 Sunflower Idol Festival are now open! \u2764\ufe0e\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWe are so excited to have you join us! Please make sure to read the requirements closely before sending in your application. The submission period will be open until Saturday February 17th at 6pm CST. Final decisions will be announced on Saturday March 2nd. Keep an eye out on the email you provided. We can\u0027t wait to see your talented selves!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Mon, 15 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2024-01\/idolfest2024_0.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, IdolFest","link":"\/news\/2024-01-15\/2024-sunflower-idol-festival-naka-kon","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1060","title":"Naka-Kon 2024 Hotel Room Block Now Open!","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, the 2024 hotel room blocks are now open! Please visit the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/hotels\u0022\u003EHotel Page\u003C\/a\u003E to reserve your rooms!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, the 2024 hotel room blocks are now open! Please visit the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/hotels\u0022\u003EHotel Page\u003C\/a\u003E to reserve your rooms!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Fri, 08 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-12\/SM_Hotel_12-8.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"hotel, 2024","link":"\/news\/2023-12-08\/naka-kon-2024-hotel-room-block-now-open","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1059","title":"Naka-Kon 2024 Exhibit Hall Application Now Open!","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, the exhibit hall application for Naka-Kon 2024 is now open! Please visit our \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/vendor-hall\u0022\u003EExhibitors page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E to submit your application! Applications will be accepted until Friday, January 5, 2024.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, the exhibit hall application for Naka-Kon 2024 is now open! Please visit our \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/vendor-hall\u0022\u003EExhibitors page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E to submit your application! Applications will be accepted until Friday, January 5, 2024.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Fri, 01 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0600","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-12\/SM_Exhibit%20Hall_12-1.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2024, vendor","link":"\/news\/2023-12-01\/naka-kon-2024-exhibit-hall-application-now-open","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1058","title":"Naka-Kon 2024 Registration Now Open!","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, Happy Cyber Monday! Registration for Naka-Kon 2024 is now open and can be purchased from \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003Eour Registration page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E. Early bird badge rates will be available until February 29, 2024.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAlso, big congratulations to the following people for winning last month\u0027s KC Japan Festival and Planet Anime raffle! Each winner will receive a pair of Naka-Kon 2024 badges and will be notified by email with directions to claim their badges.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EKC Japan Festival winners: Nick Daniels and Lux Chandler\u003Cbr \/\u003E\nPlanet Anime winners: Kira Nuzum and Douglas Skiles\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, Happy Cyber Monday! Registration for Naka-Kon 2024 is now open and can be purchased from \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003Eour Registration page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E. Early bird badge rates will be available until February 29, 2024.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EAlso, big congratulations to the following people for winning last month\u0027s KC Japan Festival and Planet Anime raffle! Each winner will receive a pair of Naka-Kon 2024 badges and will be notified by email with directions to claim their badges.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Mon, 27 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0600","color":"border-danger","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-11\/SM_Registration_11-26.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"Registration, 2024","link":"\/news\/2023-11-27\/naka-kon-2024-registration-now-open","sticky":"True"},{"nid":"1057","title":"Win Naka-Kon 2024 badges and Gift Cards at KC Japan Festival!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Kansas City Japan Festival is this Saturday, October 7, at the Johnson County Community College! Come swing by the Naka-Kon booth or participate in the cosplay contest for your chance to win Naka-Kon 2024 badges. At our booth, we will also give away gift cards for the KC Craft Ramen and Right Stuf Anime (Crunchyroll) Store!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EPlease visit this page for the cosplay contest rules: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.kcjapanfestival.org\/cosplay-fashion-show-and-contest\/\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/www.kcjapanfestival.org\/cosplay-fashion-show-and-contest\/\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Kansas City Japan Festival is this Saturday, October 7, at the Johnson County Community College! Come swing by the Naka-Kon booth or participate in the cosplay contest for your chance to win Naka-Kon 2024 badges. At our booth, we will also give away gift cards for the KC Craft Ramen and Right Stuf Anime (Crunchyroll) Store!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Thu, 05 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-10\/KC%20Japan%20Festival%202023%20Vertical.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"Japan Fest","link":"\/news\/2023-10-05\/win-naka-kon-2024-badges-and-gift-cards-kc-japan-festival","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1056","title":"Kansas City Japan Festival Volunteers Needed","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Greater Kansas City Japan Festival is coming up on October 7 at Johnson County Community College! Naka-Kon will again be part of the festival, helping out the Anime and Manga area. The festival is currently looking for volunteers. To sign up and read all the benefits, please visit \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.kcjapanfestival.org\/volunteer\/\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/www.kcjapanfestival.org\/volunteer\/\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Greater Kansas City Japan Festival is coming up on October 7 at Johnson County Community College! Naka-Kon will again be part of the festival, helping out the Anime and Manga area. The festival is currently looking for volunteers. To sign up and read all the benefits, please visit \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.kcjapanfestival.org\/volunteer\/\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/www.kcjapanfestival.org\/volunteer\/\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Sun, 24 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"Japan Fest","link":"\/news\/2023-09-24\/kansas-city-japan-festival-volunteers-needed","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1055","title":"Sonic Symphony Ticket Giveaway!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGet ready to run down memory lane at Sonic speed!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ECourtesy of MGP Live, we are excited to share that we have two pairs of tickets to giveaway for the upcoming Sonic Symphony Concert scheduled to be held on January 27, 2024, at Kansas City Music Hall.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ETo enter the giveaway, simply visit this webpage and enter your information! Entry will be open through the end of November: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mgplive.com\/sonic-symphony-kc-giveaway\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/www.mgplive.com\/sonic-symphony-kc-giveaway\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ESonic Symphony is an immersive live experience that celebrates more than three decades of music from SEGA\u2019s iconic mascot. From the classic 8-bit and 16-bit tunes to rock bands and EDM, this concert will take you on a musical journey through the colorful world of Sonic the Hedgehog.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ERelive your favorite Sonic moments, brought to life by a symphony orchestra and rock band. Sonic Symphony will be an electrifying tribute to the music that has defined generations of gamers, old and new.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EDon\u2019t miss the chance to experience the sounds of Sonic like never before!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EGet ready to run down memory lane at Sonic speed!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ECourtesy of MGP Live, we are excited to share that we have two pairs of tickets to giveaway for the upcoming Sonic Symphony Concert scheduled to be held on January 27, 2024, at Kansas City Music Hall.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ETo enter the giveaway, simply visit this webpage and enter your information! Entry will be open through the end of November: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.mgplive.com\/sonic-symphony-kc-giveaway\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/www.mgplive.com\/sonic-symphony-kc-giveaway\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Fri, 22 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-10\/1080x1080_Kansas.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"","link":"\/news\/2023-09-22\/sonic-symphony-ticket-giveaway","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1033","title":"So long and see you in 2024!","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs x1xmvt09 x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen xo1l8bm xzsf02u x1yc453h\u0022 dir=\u0022auto\u0022\u003ENakama, it was great seeing all of you! Thanks for coming and we\u0027ll see you next year: \u003Cstrong\u003EMay 24th to 26th, 2024.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWe\u0027d love to hear about your time at Naka-Kon 2023. If you would be so kind to provide us with your valuable feedback. Your responses will assist us in enhancing future conventions, making them even more memorable and enjoyable for all Naka-Kon attendees. Responses will be kept anonymous and used to guide decisions for Naka--Kon 2024 and beyond!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-success\u0022 href=\u0022https:\/\/forms.gle\/kmt1PrLFNWoMcAu79\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EFeedback Form\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u00a0\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003EIf you\u0027d like to join us and be a Naka-Kon staff member\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-secondary\u0022 href=\u0022\/about-naka-kon\/join-naka-kon\u0022\u003EJoin our team!\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022x193iq5w xeuugli x13faqbe x1vvkbs x1xmvt09 x1lliihq x1s928wv xhkezso x1gmr53x x1cpjm7i x1fgarty x1943h6x xudqn12 x3x7a5m x6prxxf xvq8zen xo1l8bm xzsf02u x1yc453h\u0022 dir=\u0022auto\u0022\u003ENakama, it was great seeing all of you! Thanks for coming and we\u0027ll see you next year: \u003Cstrong\u003EMay 24th to 26th, 2024.\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Mon, 29 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-06\/naka-2023-bye.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, 2024","link":"\/news\/2023-05-29\/so-long-and-see-you-2024","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1031","title":"Good Morning Nakama - 2023","body":"\u003Cp\u003EGood morning Nakama! It is Friday of Con and we are excited. Badge pick-up just opened for the day, we have a few hours until gaming opens it doors, and things really kick off at 4 pm with Opening Ceremonies.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWhat about everything else like vendor hall, registration, or prop checks? We now have our convention hours for different services available on our \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/convention-hours\u0022\u003EConvention Hours Page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you are trying to find a panel or event and don\u0027t know when or where it is? Check out the always useful \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca aria-label=\u0022Link to panels schedule\u0022 href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\u0022\u003ESchedule\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E. If you are more in a mood to sit and enjoy some great shows, check out the \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/screenings\/2023\u0022\u003EScreenings Schedule\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E. We\u0027ve got shows running from 3:00pm Friday until 4:30pm Sunday.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ELastly, if you are concerned about loading up a web page with all these other people about using the internet at con? Well we\u0027ve got just the thing. Our \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-danger\u0022 href=\u0022\/app\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003EDigital Program Book\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E is back this year! That\u0027s right, mobile friendly and super packed full of information. Once you got it running, you won\u0027t even need internet access to check it.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EGood morning Nakama! It is Friday of Con and we are excited. Badge pick-up just opened for the day, we have a few hours until gaming opens it doors, and things really kick off at 4 pm with Opening Ceremonies.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWhat about everything else like vendor hall, registration, or prop checks? We now have our convention hours for different services available on our \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/convention-hours\u0022\u003EConvention Hours Page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Fri, 26 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"border-success","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2021-08\/inari-goku.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023","link":"\/news\/2023-05-26\/good-morning-nakama-2023","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1028","title":"Early badge pick-up tomorrow!","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama! Naka-Kon 2023 is just around the corner. You may pick up badges early tomorrow \u003Cstrong\u003E(Thursday, May 25)\u003C\/strong\u003E from \u003Cstrong\u003E6 PM - 9 PM\u003C\/strong\u003E at \u003Cstrong\u003EOverland Park Convention Center Ballroom A1\u003C\/strong\u003E. Please note the change in the location of badge pickup compared to years past. Please bring your registration confirmation either printed or on your mobile device. \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003EAdditional details on registration and badges can be viewed here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFriendly reminder that our safety policy was updated last month, and we now strongly recommend facemasks but do not require them. Vaccine proof is also not required.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama! Naka-Kon 2023 is just around the corner. You may pick up badges early tomorrow \u003Cstrong\u003E(Thursday, May 25)\u003C\/strong\u003E from \u003Cstrong\u003E6 PM - 9 PM\u003C\/strong\u003E at \u003Cstrong\u003EOverland Park Convention Center Ballroom A1\u003C\/strong\u003E. Please note the change in the location of badge pickup compared to years past. Please bring your registration confirmation either printed or on your mobile device. \u003Cstrong\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/registration\u0022\u003EAdditional details on registration and badges can be viewed here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Wed, 24 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-05\/2023-reg-update.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023","link":"\/news\/2023-05-24\/early-badge-pick-tomorrow","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1027","title":"Traveling Kimono Exhibition: Kimono Through Time, presented by Tangerine Mountain","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThis year Naka-Kon is excited to host a special exhibition in the Exhibit Hall, \u003Ca href=\u0022\/vendor-hall\/traveling-kimono-exhibition-kimono-through-time\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETraveling Kimono Exhibition: Kimono Through Time\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, presented by Tangerine Mountain. This exhibition will highlight antique and modern kimono fashions and items, and various panels on kimonos will be presented at the exhibit throughout the weekend. The exhibit is free to all Naka-Kon attendees. Please check it out during our shopping trip!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EThis year Naka-Kon is excited to host a special exhibition in the Exhibit Hall, \u003Ca href=\u0022\/vendor-hall\/traveling-kimono-exhibition-kimono-through-time\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETraveling Kimono Exhibition: Kimono Through Time\u003C\/strong\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E, presented by Tangerine Mountain. This exhibition will highlight antique and modern kimono fashions and items, and various panels on kimonos will be presented at the exhibit throughout the weekend. The exhibit is free to all Naka-Kon attendees. Please check it out during our shopping trip!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Wed, 24 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/inline-images\/exhibition\/Naka-Kon%20-%20Weekend%20Advert%20-%20Traveling%20Exhibition.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023","link":"\/news\/2023-05-24\/traveling-kimono-exhibition-kimono-through-time-presented-tangerine-mountain","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"1029","title":"Exhibit Hall Vendors, Artist, and Exhibitor List","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama! The list of vendors, artists, and exhibitors attending Naka-Kon 2023 is now available on the website!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-primary btn-lg\u0022 href=\u0022\/vendor-hall\u0022\u003EVisit the Exhibitors page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama! The list of vendors, artists, and exhibitors attending Naka-Kon 2023 is now available on the website!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-primary btn-lg\u0022 href=\u0022\/vendor-hall\u0022\u003EVisit the Exhibitors page\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Tue, 23 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-05\/2022-exhibit-hall.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, vendor, artist","link":"\/news\/2023-05-23\/exhibit-hall-vendors-artist-and-exhibitor-list","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"958","title":"Music video \u0026quot;Let You Go\u0026quot; by DANTZ and Ray Kirk","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are excited to have \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/dantz\u0022\u003EDANTZ\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/ray-kirk\u0022\u003ERay Kirk\u003C\/a\u003E be part of music programming this year! Here is the song featuring these two great artists, \u0022Let You Go.\u0022 Please come check out their performance on \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/friday\/dantz-and-ray-kirk-concert\u0022\u003EFriday\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/saturday\/dantz-and-ray-kirk-concert\u0022\u003ESaturday\u003C\/a\u003E nights!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EWe are excited to have \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/dantz\u0022\u003EDANTZ\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/ray-kirk\u0022\u003ERay Kirk\u003C\/a\u003E be part of music programming this year! Here is the song featuring these two great artists, \u0022Let You Go.\u0022 Please come check out their performance on \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/friday\/dantz-and-ray-kirk-concert\u0022\u003EFriday\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/saturday\/dantz-and-ray-kirk-concert\u0022\u003ESaturday\u003C\/a\u003E nights!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Mon, 22 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"","gallery_images":"","youtube":"n4PwuayH4Wo","tags":"2023, Guests","link":"\/news\/2023-05-22\/music-video-let-you-go-dantz-and-ray-kirk","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"957","title":"Guest of Honor Chiaki Mayumura appears on NHK WORLD-JAPAN music program J-MELO.","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe look forward to \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/chiaki-mayumura\u0022\u003EChiaki Mayumura\u003C\/a\u003E performing this \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/friday\/chiaki-mayumura-concert\u0022\u003EFriday\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/saturday\/chiaki-mayumura-concert\u0022\u003ESaturday\u003C\/a\u003E night at Naka-Kon 2023! Chiaki recently appeared on NHK WORLD-JAPAN music program J-MELO. You can view Chiaki\u0027s performance and interview free on-demand with English subtitles here at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nhk.or.jp\/j-melo\/nhkworld\/\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/www.nhk.or.jp\/j-melo\/nhkworld\/\u003C\/a\u003E. Check it out to get a taste of what you will experience this weekend!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EWe look forward to \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/chiaki-mayumura\u0022\u003EChiaki Mayumura\u003C\/a\u003E performing this \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/friday\/chiaki-mayumura-concert\u0022\u003EFriday\u003C\/a\u003E and \u003Ca href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\/saturday\/chiaki-mayumura-concert\u0022\u003ESaturday\u003C\/a\u003E night at Naka-Kon 2023! Chiaki recently appeared on NHK WORLD-JAPAN music program J-MELO. You can view Chiaki\u0027s performance and interview free on-demand with English subtitles here at \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/www.nhk.or.jp\/j-melo\/nhkworld\/\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/www.nhk.or.jp\/j-melo\/nhkworld\/\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sun, 21 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, Guests","link":"\/news\/2023-05-21\/guest-honor-chiaki-mayumura-appears-nhk-world-japan-music-program-j-melo","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"956","title":"Sheraton Hotel Update","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - a few updates from our main convention hotel Sheraton Overland Park. First, there has been a handful of room cancellations. Please call the hotel directly if you are looking for last-minute lodging.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFor those staying at the Sheraton Hotel, the hotel is bringing back the cleanest room competition with prizes, including free nights and gift cards!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFinally, the Sheraton will be having special food at the hotel during the convention weekend!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EVisit the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/hotels\/sheraton-overland-park-convention-hotel\u0022\u003ESheraton Page\u003C\/a\u003E for more details on both.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama - a few updates from our main convention hotel Sheraton Overland Park. First, there has been a handful of room cancellations. Please call the hotel directly if you are looking for last-minute lodging.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFor those staying at the Sheraton Hotel, the hotel is bringing back the cleanest room competition with prizes, including free nights and gift cards!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFinally, the Sheraton will be having special food at the hotel during the convention weekend!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sun, 21 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, hotel","link":"\/news\/2023-05-21\/sheraton-hotel-update","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"944","title":"Interested in going to one of our 18+ Wristband events?","body":"\u003Cp\u003EInterested in going to one of our 18+ Wristband events?\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EGreat! Just a quick reminder that you will need to pick up your 18+ Wristband PRIOR to the time of the 18+ Panels on the day of the panel you want to see. Friday wristbands count for Friday only.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWristbands available in the Access Control office, Redbud, Sheraton 12pm-9pm Friday and 10am-9pm Saturday. Info desk will also have them available.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you have an event ticket for Cos-lesque! Make sure you get a wristband too!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFor the full Policy: \u003Ca href=\u0022https:\/\/naka-kon.com\/rules\/18-wristband-policy\u0022\u003Ehttps:\/\/naka-kon.com\/rules\/18-wristband-policy\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EInterested in going to one of our 18+ Wristband events?\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EGreat! Just a quick reminder that you will need to pick up your 18+ Wristband PRIOR to the time of the 18+ Panels on the day of the panel you want to see. Friday wristbands count for Friday only.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWristbands available in the Access Control office, Redbud, Sheraton 12pm-9pm Friday and 10am-9pm Saturday. Info desk will also have them available.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EIf you have an event ticket for Cos-lesque! Make sure you get a wristband too!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Fri, 19 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-05\/18-wristband.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"18+, 2023","link":"\/news\/2023-05-19\/interested-going-one-our-18-wristband-events","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"937","title":"Cos-lesque is Back!","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECos-lesque is back, this year featuring performance from the talented Foxy By Proxy Revue! For those who don\u0027t know, Cos-lesque is Naka-Kon\u0027s very own cosplay themed burlesque show. While there will be no full nudity, there will be lots of 18+ fun! Check out our talented performers!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEucalyptus Soft is a large ball of green slime and chaos just cos playing as a hot girl so she can absorb all the hooting and hollering to become an even larger ball of slime.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ECarma Lea is known for her campy, good girl numbers. But for tonight, they will dazzle you tonight as two iconic women from anime.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EMx Diagnosed is your local non-binary satanic adversary. Active member of Lawrence\u0027s proactive cosplay burlesque troupe, Foxy by Proxy. First appeared on stage as a Go-Go dancer at Wilde\u0027s Chateau. IYKYK\u00a0 (Lawrence\u0027s last gay bar) They\u0027re not gonna say how many years ago, because they need to uphold their image as being ageless. Co-producer of Midnight Market, a NSFW art market.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EFreyja Delphine has been performing with FBP for over a decade! With the troupe they\u2019ve gone from performer, to choreographer, to producer! It\u2019s been a wild ride but they wouldn\u2019t have it any other way!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ENerdy Nita is here to greet ya! A Lawrence based member of The Foxy by proxy review, Nita has been gracing the stage with cosplay centric performances and productions since 2016. Their end all goal is to just have fun and sexually confused the audience by having them ask themselves, \u201cam I really attracted to an Australian Wallaby?\u201d The answer is yes, yes you are.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ECome enjoy Cos-lesque with these amazing performers!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-primary\u0022 href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\/cos-lesque-18\u0022\u003EGrab your ticket here!\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ECos-lesque is back, this year featuring performance from the talented Foxy By Proxy Revue! For those who don\u0027t know, Cos-lesque is Naka-Kon\u0027s very own cosplay themed burlesque show. While there will be no full nudity, there will be lots of 18+ fun! Check out our talented performers!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EEucalyptus Soft is a large ball of green slime and chaos just cos playing as a hot girl so she can absorb all the hooting and hollering to become an even larger ball of slime.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Wed, 17 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2023-05\/2023%20cos-lesque%20-%20square.png","gallery_images":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2023-05\/Eucalyptus%20Soft.png, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2023-05\/Carma%20Lea.png, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2023-05\/Mx%20Diagnosed.png, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2023-05\/Freyja%20Delphine.png, \/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/gallery\/2023-05\/Nerdy%20Nita.png","youtube":"","tags":"2023, burlesque, 18+, Ticketed Events","link":"\/news\/2023-05-17\/cos-lesque-back","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"934","title":"2023 Schedule now available!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Much Desired Schedule\u2122 has finally arrived*! Check it out and start planning your weekend. Also remember to check the schedule before events begin for any updates.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-success\u0022 href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E2023 Schedule\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022small text-muted\u0022\u003E* Our webmaster would like to apologize for the delay. They were trapped in Hyrule and lost track of time.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003EThe Much Desired Schedule\u2122 has finally arrived*! Check it out and start planning your weekend. Also remember to check the schedule before events begin for any updates.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022text-align-center\u0022\u003E\u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-success\u0022 href=\u0022\/schedule\/2023\u0022 rel=\u0022 noopener\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003E2023 Schedule\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp class=\u0022small text-muted\u0022\u003E* Our webmaster would like to apologize for the delay. They were trapped in Hyrule and lost track of time.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Mon, 15 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2021-08\/Inari%20-%20Reading.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, Schedule","link":"\/news\/2023-05-15\/2023-schedule-now-available","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"812","title":"Ticketed events now on sale!","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, ticketed events are now on sale. Visit the \u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-primary\u0022 href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\u0022\u003ETicketed Event page\u003C\/a\u003E to see what special events we have this year and purchase the tickets. Please note that tickets will not be sold on-site and must be purchased online.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, ticketed events are now on sale. Visit the \u003Ca class=\u0022btn btn-outline-primary\u0022 href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\u0022\u003ETicketed Event page\u003C\/a\u003E to see what special events we have this year and purchase the tickets. Please note that tickets will not be sold on-site and must be purchased online.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Thu, 11 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/headers\/Tomo%20Times%202.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-05\/event_tickets_happy.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"Registration, Ticketed Events, 2023","link":"\/news\/2023-05-11\/ticketed-events-now-sale","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"811","title":"Delay to launch of ticketed event sale","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, we sincerely apologize, but we need to delay the sale of ticketed events a few more days to this Thursday, May 11. Please visit the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\u0022\u003ETicketed Event Page\u003C\/a\u003E to learn more about each of the events that will be offered at Naka-Kon 2023.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama, we sincerely apologize, but we need to delay the sale of ticketed events a few more days to this Thursday, May 11. Please visit the \u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\u0022\u003ETicketed Event Page\u003C\/a\u003E to learn more about each of the events that will be offered at Naka-Kon 2023.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","published":"Mon, 08 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-05\/Inari-Kun%20Sorry.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, Ticketed Events","link":"\/news\/2023-05-08\/delay-launch-ticketed-event-sale","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"810","title":"Ticketed events to go on sale on May 8.","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama! Ticketed events will be sold to the public this Monday, May 8. This year we have a total of five ticketed events: Byakko\u0027s Kimodameshi, Charity Ball, Cos-lesque!, Cosplay Brunch \u0026amp; Bingo, and Maid Cafe. Please visit our website to learn more about each event! \u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\u0022\u003ESee them all here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EVIP members - a form was emailed to all VIP members last weekend where you can choose your complimentary admission to a ticketed event. If you cannot find the form in your inbox, please email \u003Ca href=\u0022mailto:memberships@naka-kon.com\u0022\u003Ememberships@naka-kon.com\u003C\/a\u003E.\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENakama! Ticketed events will be sold to the public this Monday, May 8. This year we have a total of five ticketed events: Byakko\u0027s Kimodameshi, Charity Ball, Cos-lesque!, Cosplay Brunch \u0026amp; Bingo, and Maid Cafe. Please visit our website to learn more about each event! \u003Ca href=\u0022\/programming\/ticketed-events\u0022\u003ESee them all here.\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Sun, 07 May 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/article\/2023-05\/In_running.png","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, Ticketed Events","link":"\/news\/2023-05-07\/ticketed-events-go-sale-may-8","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"808","title":"Naka-Kon Welcomes back Three Trails Taiko!","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/three-trails-taiko\u0022\u003EThree Trails Taiko\u003C\/a\u003E Ltd. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, currently consisting of approximately eleven volunteers. They have performed for local festivals, relief events, libraries, organizations, and business events in the Greater Kansas City area.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ETheir mission is to become better taiko players in mind, body, and spirit while sharing the tradition, culture and art of Kumi Daiko and Japan with the surrounding community.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EWhat Is taiko? Originating in Japan, the word taiko simply means \u0022drum\u0022. Throughout history, various forms of taiko have been used for several purposes including military action and warfare, theater, festivals and performance arts. Three Trails Taiko, along with hundreds of groups around the world, participate in of style of taiko called \u0022kumi-daiko\u0022. Kumi-daiko was formed in the 1950\u0027s by jazz drummer Daihachi Oguchi and can be defined as group or ensemble drumming for the sake of performance arts and entertainment. Several different types of drums and percussion instruments are used in tandem to create beautiful and powerful musical compositions that can convey specific moods and tell stories of Japan\u0027s rich history and culture.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThree Trails Taiko formed in the summer of 2010 from the collaboration of some passionate taiko players from Denver Taiko and KiDaiko. They currently practice at Aikijyuku Dojo in Olathe, Kansas\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/three-trails-taiko\u0022\u003EThree Trails Taiko\u003C\/a\u003E Ltd. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, currently consisting of approximately eleven volunteers. They have performed for local festivals, relief events, libraries, organizations, and business events in the Greater Kansas City area.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ETheir mission is to become better taiko players in mind, body, and spirit while sharing the tradition, culture and art of Kumi Daiko and Japan with the surrounding community.\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Fri, 28 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2023-04\/2023%20-%20Taiko.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, Guests","link":"\/news\/2023-04-28\/naka-kon-welcomes-back-three-trails-taiko","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"803","title":"Cosplay Special Events Host: Luna Flare!","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENaka-Kon is excited to welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/luna-flare\u0022\u003ELuna Flare\u003C\/a\u003E as our host for some special events!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ELuna Flare is Kansas City\u2019s favorite \u0022Queen of Cosplay,\u0022! Luna has used her talents to entertain local audiences for more than a decade. As a cosplayer, she has won group and solo awards creating costumes that pay tribute to her favorite media and has participated as a subject and producer in the Cosplay documentary film \u0022What We Can Be (@whatwecanbe)\u0022 directed by Nick Young. She has been a member of the cosplay group Another Castle Creations (@anothercastlecreations) since 2017. The group uses their cosplay skills to educate up and coming cosplayers and for volunteer services around the area. Her favorite part about being a drag queen is bringing joy to people whether she meets them after a performance, on a con floor, or through her work with organizations such as Children\u0027s Mercy and The Make-A-Wish Foundation. You can find her weekly as the host of Saturday Brunch at Hamburger Mary\u0027s KC. Follow her @mslunaflare across all social media to find out more information or just to say hey queen!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003ECatch Luna hosting panels and special events such as the Sunflower Idol Festival and our first Cosplay Brunch \u0026amp; Bingo event!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENaka-Kon is excited to welcome \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/luna-flare\u0022\u003ELuna Flare\u003C\/a\u003E as our host for some special events!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Fri, 28 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2023-04\/Cosplay%20Luna-01.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, Cosplay, Guests","link":"\/news\/2023-04-28\/cosplay-special-events-host-luna-flare","sticky":"False"},{"nid":"801","title":"Hallway Cosplay Judge: Duff Cosplay","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENaka-Kon welcomes \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/duff-cosplay\u0022\u003EDuff Cosplay\u003C\/a\u003E as the other Hallway Cosplay Judge!\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EDuff Cosplay is a family that creates costumes and props to have fun and meet fellow fans. We love displaying and our interpretations of pop culture characters. They create using multiple mediums including fabric, aluminum, steel, accented with electronics and mechanical systems. They have been humbled with great success competing around the country, most notably winning multiple Master class awards in Kansas City, Omaha, and Chicago. They are most proud of the Judges Choice at San Diego Comicon 2018, Best in Show Nebraskon 2019, and 2nd Place Armor at Crown Championship: Midwest Region 2020!\u003C\/p\u003E\n","summary":"\u003Cp\u003ENaka-Kon welcomes \u003Ca href=\u0022\/guests\/2023\/duff-cosplay\u0022\u003EDuff Cosplay\u003C\/a\u003E as the other Hallway Cosplay Judge!\u003C\/p\u003E","published":"Wed, 26 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0500","color":"","header_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/default_images\/Tomo%20Times%202_0.png","main_image":"\/sites\/default\/files\/guests\/main\/2023-04\/2023%20-%20Cosplay%20Duff.jpg","gallery_images":"","youtube":"","tags":"2023, Cosplay","link":"\/news\/2023-04-26\/hallway-cosplay-judge-duff-cosplay","sticky":"False"}]