WikiFur - User contributions [en]

Gary the Rat

2008-08-28T16:07:52Z

130.76.96.15: NPOV

'''Gary The Rat''' is a web cartoon turned short-lived cartoon starring Kelsey Grammer as the lawyer [[Gary Andrews]], the lawyer that changed into a rat (literally!)

Gary The Rat started as a web cartoon (produced by eStudios & Grammnet) for MediaTrip.com, it was bought by Mondo Media (aka Mondo Mini Shows) for syndicaton later in its life span

In 2003, Gary The Rat became the 1st web cartoon turned into a animated TV series when Gary The Rat aired in 2003 on TNN (during the Spike Lee lawsuit over the "Spike TV" name change). "Gary The Rat" was cancelled after one season, to the disappointment of many in the [[furry fandom]], .

The show was awarded ''Best Anthropomorphic Dramatic Series'' by the [[Ursa Major Awards]] in that year.

[[Category:Animations]]

Rocket City FurMeet

2007-11-09T18:44:25Z

130.76.96.15: dne

{{RCFM}}
[[Image:RCFMhotelDriveway.jpg|thumb|right|The Radisson hotel on Boulevard South, RCFM's hotel since the beginning in 2003]]
'''Rocket City FurMeet''', known as '''RCFM''', is an annual [[furry convention]] in [[wikipedia:Huntsville, Alabama|Huntsville]], [[wikipedia:Alabama|Alabama]], [[wikipedia:United States|USA]] that meets over [[Wikipedia:Memorial Day|Memorial Day]] weekend. It was started in 2003 by [[KO]], [[Brody Catsmouth]] and members of [[North Alabama Regional Furs]]. From the beginning, the meet has been held at the Radisson Suite hotel on South Memorial Parkway in Huntsville, Alabama. RCFM is known for having numerous food events and striving to keep guests well-fed. RCFM is funded through the Alabama non-profit corporation "Rocket City FurMeet, Incorporated."

== Name ==
Huntsville is known as "Rocket City" because it is the home of the US Space and Rocket Center and its famous [http://www.spacecamp.com/ Space Camp], Marshall Space Flight Center, and Redstone Arsenal. Werner Von Braun and many of his team worked on much of their rocket while living in Huntsville, AL.

== Wheel of Blame ==
The con has a "Wheel of Blame" with every RCFM staffer's name on it. The wheel, which was introduced at the second RCFM, is spun during the opening ceremonies and whoever's name it lands upon receives all the blame for any problems and mishaps during the entire con (aka Staff Member X). The wheel is then spun again at the closing ceremonies and whoever's name it lands upon is blamed for any problems the staff has until next year's convention.

== RCFM Board of Directors ==

* [[KO]] - Head Cat and Chairperson for Rocket City FurMeet
* [[Brody Catsmouth]] - Co-chair, Founder, Treasurer
* [[Alexander Katz]] - Third Banana, Security, Publications
* [[Lacy Amberwolf]] - [[Second Life]], Publicity, Publications, Graphics, T-shirts
* [[Draconis]] - Advisor
* [[Shirokuma]] - [[Dealers' Den]] Co-Commander of Data Systems
* [[Kiran Lightpaw]] - Registration
* [[PITA]] - Hospitality, VIP Liasion

{{WikiFurNews|Rocket City FurMeet posts 40% growth, security insurrection removes chairman}}
{{WikiFurNews|Rocket City FurMeet chairman injured, donations sought}}

== See also ==
* [[:Category:Rocket City FurMeet guests of honor|Rocket City FurMeet guests of honor]]
* [[:Category:Rocket City FurMeet staff|Rocket City FurMeet staff]]

== External links ==

* [http://www.rcfm.net/ Rocket City FurMeet website]
* [http://www.frappr.com/rcfm Rocket City FurMeet Frappr map]
* [http://community.livejournal.com/rcfm/ Rocket City FurMeet] [[LiveJournal]] community
* [http://www.geocities.com/rcfm_free_press/ Rocket City FurMeet Free Press]
* [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rocketcityfurmeet/ Rocket City FurMeet] [[Yahoo!]] group
* {{con resources}}

[[Category:Conventions]][[Category:Alabama]][[Category:2003 births]]

Kiwihunter

2007-11-09T18:42:58Z

130.76.96.15:

'''KiwiHunter''' is an [[artist]], [[fursuit]]-maker, and performer. A "fluffy pink [[snow leopard]]", she is from [[Wikipedia:Atlanta, Georgia|Atlanta, Georgia]], U.S.A.<ref>[http://www.rcfm.net/staff.htm Rocket City Fur Meet - Staff and Contact Information]. Last updated November 23, 2006. Retrieved December 8, 2006.</ref>

Kiwihunter creates [[cartoon|cartoons]], submits art to the [[conbook|conbooks]] of local [[conventions]], and is a staffer and former board member of [[Rocket City FurMeet]]. She runs [[Kiwihunter Creations]], her fursuit studio.

{{person-stub}}

== References ==
<references/>

==External Links==
* [http://www.kiwihunter.com/ Kiwihunter Creations]
* [http://us.vclart.net/vcl/Artists/Kiwihunter/ Kiwihunter] on [[VCL]]

[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Artists]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:Rocket City FurMeet staff]]
[[Category:Snow Leopard characters]]
[[Category:Georgia]]

Rocket City FurMeet

2007-11-09T18:41:16Z

130.76.96.15:

{{RCFM}}
[[Image:RCFMhotelDriveway.jpg|thumb|right|The Radisson hotel on Boulevard South, RCFM's hotel since the beginning in 2003]]
'''Rocket City FurMeet''', known as '''RCFM''', is an annual [[furry convention]] in [[wikipedia:Huntsville, Alabama|Huntsville]], [[wikipedia:Alabama|Alabama]], [[wikipedia:United States|USA]] that meets over [[Wikipedia:Memorial Day|Memorial Day]] weekend. It was started in 2003 by [[KO]], [[Brody Catsmouth]] and members of [[North Alabama Regional Furs]]. From the beginning, the meet has been held at the Radisson Suite hotel on South Memorial Parkway in Huntsville, Alabama. RCFM is known for having numerous food events and striving to keep guests well-fed. RCFM is funded through the Alabama non-profit corporation "Rocket City FurMeet, Incorporated."

== Name ==
Huntsville is known as "Rocket City" because it is the home of the US Space and Rocket Center and its famous [http://www.spacecamp.com/ Space Camp], Marshall Space Flight Center, and Redstone Arsenal. Werner Von Braun and many of his team worked on much of their rocket while living in Huntsville, AL.

== Wheel of Blame ==
The con has a "Wheel of Blame" with every RCFM staffer's name on it. The wheel, which was introduced at the second RCFM, is spun during the opening ceremonies and whoever's name it lands upon receives all the blame for any problems and mishaps during the entire con (aka Staff Member X). The wheel is then spun again at the closing ceremonies and whoever's name it lands upon is blamed for any problems the staff has until next year's convention.

== RCFM Board of Directors ==

* [[KO]] - Head Cat and Chairperson for Rocket City FurMeet
* [[Brody Catsmouth]] - Co-chair, Founder, Treasurer
* [[Alexander Katz]] - Third Banana, Security, Publications
* [[Lacy Amberwolf]] - [[Second Life]], Publicity, Publications, Graphics, T-shirts
* [[Draconis]] - Advisor
* [[Shirokuma]] - [[Dealers' Den]] Co-Commander of Data Systems
* [[Kiran Lightpaw]] - Registration
* [[PITA]] - Hospitality, VIP Liasion

{{WikiFurNews|Rocket City FurMeet posts 40% growth, security insurrection removes chairman}}
{{WikiFurNews|Rocket City FurMeet chairman injured, donations sought}}

== See also ==
* [[:Category:Rocket City FurMeet guests of honor|Rocket City FurMeet guests of honor]]
* [[:Category:Rocket City FurMeet staff|Rocket City FurMeet staff]]

== External links ==

* [http://www.rcfm.net/ Rocket City FurMeet website]
* [http://www.rcfm.net/forum/ Rocket City FurMeet discussion forum]
* [http://www.frappr.com/rcfm Rocket City FurMeet Frappr map]
* [http://community.livejournal.com/rcfm/ Rocket City FurMeet] [[LiveJournal]] community
* [http://www.geocities.com/rcfm_free_press/ Rocket City FurMeet Free Press]
* [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rocketcityfurmeet/ Rocket City FurMeet] [[Yahoo!]] group
* {{con resources}}

[[Category:Conventions]][[Category:Alabama]][[Category:2003 births]]

News:Atlanta furs take on 'Klingons' in bowling tournament

2007-10-08T15:03:20Z

130.76.96.15:

{{date|September|30|2007}}{{publish}}
[[Image:Fursvsklingons.jpg|right|right|frame|The event was widely publicised]]
It was the battle of the fandoms on September 29th, 2007 when Atlanta [[furries]] took on a challenge by [[Wikipedia:Klingons|Klingons]] in '''Furries vs. Klingons''', a [[Wikipedia:bowling|bowling]] competition held in Atlanta, [[:Category:Georgia|Georgia]] between a group of furries and Klingons. The Klingon team - most of whom appeared to be [[human]]s in regular [[Wikipedia:Star Trek|Star Trek]] uniforms - emerged victorious. However, the furry team had far more members than the Klingons.

The event was first announced on the [[Atlanta Furs]] community [[LiveJournal]],<ref>''[http://community.livejournal.com/atlanta_furs/14291.html Furries VS. Klingons Bowling, This Saturday, Sept. 29 @ 8:00 PM.]'' - {{lj-comm|atlanta_furs}} (September 24, 2007)</ref> and the news spread from there. It hit not only furry websites, but also popular websites [http://www.boingboing.net/2007/09/25/furries-vs-klingons.html Boing Boing] and [http://forums.fark.com/cgi/fark/comments.pl?IDLink=3092628 Fark], and was attended by [[Wikipedia:G4 (TV channel)|G4]].<ref name="cedar">''[http://cedar-musketeer.livejournal.com/7120.html Welcome to the Furries vs Klingons Bowling Challenge!!!]'' - {{lj-user|cedar_musketeer}} (September 30, 2007)</ref> An online poll of supporters attracted over 500 votes, which were evenly distributed between the teams.<ref>''[http://www.pollsb.com/polls/view/2466/who-s-side-are-you-on Who's side are you on?]'' - pickerupper, Polls Boutique (September 25, 2007)</ref>

The furries were at a disadvantage as [[fursuit]]s made bowling difficult; specifically, the paw gloves made holding the ball tricky and the costume head obstructed vision. However, not all furries - or Klingons - were in costume.

Due to uneven numbers, the winners were decided in a bowl-off between the top five bowlers from each side.

==Quotes==
{{q|There is a trophy BTW, but it doesn't matter who wins or who loses, we are all just here for fun.<ref name="cedar" />}}

==Sources==
<references />

==See Also==
<div style="float:right;padding:5px;background-color:#e0e0e0;border:solid 1px black;"><youtube>yHRWwfE5I3g</youtube><br>Video of the event. Source: James B. Clark</div>
<div style="float:right;padding:5px;background-color:#e0e0e0;border:solid 1px black;"><youtube>ljAXHWE0bDQ</youtube><br>Video of the event. Source: Patrick J. McCart</div>
[http://flickr.com/photos/14359698@N07/sets/72157602213115572/ Pictures of the event]
{{Culture news}}

The Furluminati

2007-10-08T14:50:06Z

130.76.96.15: /* History */

[[Image:LOLFurriesLogo.jpg|right|LOLFurries]]
'''LOLfurries.org''' is a [[BBS]] forum for [[furs]] and other people to laugh, mock, and debate the biggest jokes and worst atrocities of the [[fandom]], plus humanity in general.

*'''Addressess''':
**'''Website''': http://www.lolfurries.org/
**'''IRC''': http://www.lolfurries.org/irc/
*'''Founder''': [[Koogs]]
*'''Administrators''': [[Icono]], [[Mik Genocide]], [[RabidRick]], [[Romper]]
*'''Ran from/to''': January 2006 - present

Due to the forum's content and attitude, LOLfurries is sometimes incorrectly labeled as an [[Anti-Furries|anti-fur]] site. This is compounded by the fact that some of its posters also frequent [[Something Awful]], [[Crush Yiff Destroy]], and other like minded sites. Members have consistently denied this "anti-fur" stance publicly.

== History ==

The board was founded by [[Furtopia]] emigrants whose posts often caused friction with what they perceive as Furtopia's restrictive forum rules. They left in January of 2006, forming a temporary BBS while pursuing webspace and purchasing a domain name. The website transferred over to its current location in March of 2006.

Many posters to LOLfurries are in good standing at Furtopia, and some Furtopia posters joined LOLfurries. Conflicts with Furtopia are still an occasional topic on the board, however.

In June of 2007 Koogs handed control of LOLFurries over to 40oz Hyena (Mik Genocide) and Icono, and proceeded to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GAFIA GAFIA].

== See also ==

*[[Furfags.com]]
*[[Crush Yiff Destroy]]

[[Category:Forums]]
[[Category:Ideological groups]]
[[Category:2006 births]]

The Furluminati

2007-10-08T14:49:27Z

130.76.96.15: /* History */

[[Image:LOLFurriesLogo.jpg|right|LOLFurries]]
'''LOLfurries.org''' is a [[BBS]] forum for [[furs]] and other people to laugh, mock, and debate the biggest jokes and worst atrocities of the [[fandom]], plus humanity in general.

*'''Addressess''':
**'''Website''': http://www.lolfurries.org/
**'''IRC''': http://www.lolfurries.org/irc/
*'''Founder''': [[Koogs]]
*'''Administrators''': [[Icono]], [[Mik Genocide]], [[RabidRick]], [[Romper]]
*'''Ran from/to''': January 2006 - present

Due to the forum's content and attitude, LOLfurries is sometimes incorrectly labeled as an [[Anti-Furries|anti-fur]] site. This is compounded by the fact that some of its posters also frequent [[Something Awful]], [[Crush Yiff Destroy]], and other like minded sites. Members have consistently denied this "anti-fur" stance publicly.

== History ==

The board was founded by [[Furtopia]] emigrants whose posts often caused friction with what they perceive as Furtopia's restrictive forum rules. They left in January of 2006, forming a temporary BBS while pursuing webspace and purchasing a domain name. The website transferred over to its current location in March of 2006.

Many posters to LOLfurries are in good standing at Furtopia, and some Furtopia posters joined LOLfurries. Conflicts with Furtopia are still an occasional topic on the board, however.

In June of 2007 Koogs handed control of LOLFurries over to 40oz Hyena (Mik Genocide) and Icono, and proceeded to [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GAFIA GAFIA]].

== See also ==

*[[Furfags.com]]
*[[Crush Yiff Destroy]]

[[Category:Forums]]
[[Category:Ideological groups]]
[[Category:2006 births]]

The Furluminati

2007-10-08T14:46:11Z

130.76.96.15: /* History */

[[Image:LOLFurriesLogo.jpg|right|LOLFurries]]
'''LOLfurries.org''' is a [[BBS]] forum for [[furs]] and other people to laugh, mock, and debate the biggest jokes and worst atrocities of the [[fandom]], plus humanity in general.

*'''Addressess''':
**'''Website''': http://www.lolfurries.org/
**'''IRC''': http://www.lolfurries.org/irc/
*'''Founder''': [[Koogs]]
*'''Administrators''': [[Icono]], [[Mik Genocide]], [[RabidRick]], [[Romper]]
*'''Ran from/to''': January 2006 - present

Due to the forum's content and attitude, LOLfurries is sometimes incorrectly labeled as an [[Anti-Furries|anti-fur]] site. This is compounded by the fact that some of its posters also frequent [[Something Awful]], [[Crush Yiff Destroy]], and other like minded sites. Members have consistently denied this "anti-fur" stance publicly.

== History ==

The board was founded by [[Furtopia]] emigrants whose posts often caused friction with what they perceive as Furtopia's restrictive forum rules. They left in January of 2006, forming a temporary BBS while pursuing webspace and purchasing a domain name. The website transferred over to its current location in March of 2006.

Many posters to LOLfurries are in good standing at Furtopia, and some Furtopia posters joined LOLfurries. Conflicts with Furtopia are still an occasional topic on the board, however.

In June of 2007 Koogs handed control of LOLFurries over to 40oz Hyena (Mik Genocide) and Icono, and proceeded to [[GAFIA]].

== See also ==

*[[Furfags.com]]
*[[Crush Yiff Destroy]]

[[Category:Forums]]
[[Category:Ideological groups]]
[[Category:2006 births]]

History

2007-09-20T20:49:05Z

130.76.96.15: Clarification, no real "furry genre" before 1980's

'''[[Furry fandom]]''' is a popular cultural phenomenon and a community of people who are interested in aspects of [[animal]]s and animal/[[human]] beings in art, literature, visual media and/or as the basis for a personal philosophy and/or [[lifestyle]].

==Before the fandom==

The genre itself may be as old as civilization. [[Anthropomorphic]] animal characters are found in the art of many ancient cultures. Anthropomorphic characters from [[Egyptian mythology]] continue to this day to be a source of inspiration to [[furry artist]]s. The earliest example of furry literature commonly cited by furry fans is [[Aesop's Fables]], which date to around 500 BC.<ref>[http://www.claws-and-paws.com/furry/non-fiction/faq.html Furries] - description of the fandom with reference to Aesop’s Fables.</ref> Furry characters then continued to proliferate through the ages in the form of folk tales, many of which are a common part of our modern culture.

==== Introduction of classic literature ====

It is not until the 1800’s that more specifically documented examples of the furry genre can be chronicled. And they are seen appearing in a variety of different forms of entertainment. These include the earliest author credited animal related fairytales by Hans Christian Anderson in 1836, the poem ''The Owl And The Pussycat'' by Edward Leer in 1871, Lewis Carroll’s fantasy novel ''Alice In Wonderland'' in 1865, Tchaikovsky’s ballet ''Swan Lake'' in 1875, Beatrix Potter’s illustrated children’s books in 1890, Rudyard Kipling’s collection of talking animal stories ''[[The Jungle Book]]'' in 1894, H. G. Wells’ 1896 novel ''The Island Of Doctor Moreau'' was the first appearance of intelligent animals in science fiction, and the first appearance of anthropomorphic animals in comic strips was James Swinnerton’s ''The Little Tigers'' in 1895.

== Formation of the furry fandom ==

Many agree that furry fandom had its origins in [[funny animal fandom]], which has existed since at least the 1940s. In the 1980s, a group of fans interested in animal [[character]]s in [[comic]]s and stories was forming around other organized fan activities. [[Room parties]] at [[science fiction]] [[convention]]s (furry parties), meetings of the [[C/FO]], and [[APA]] [[collating party|collating parties]] (for [[funny animal]] and cartooning APAs, such as [[Vootie]] and [[Rowrbrazzle]]). Fans kept in contact with each other on computer [[BBS]]s (Bulletin Board Systems) like the [[Tiger's Den]], [[StormGate Aerie]] and [[Kyim's Scratching Post]]; and in the early 1990s through on-line chat environments (e.g. [[Wikipedia:GEnie|GEnie]], [[Wikipedia:CompuServe|CompuServe]], [[Wikipedia:Prodigy (ISP)|Prodigy]] and [[Wikipedia:Delphi online service|Delphi]]). APAs and [[fanzine]] "wars" became popular, with mail-in art and [[comic]] contributions collated and distributed to all members.

== Furry fandom timeline ==

In the earlier days of the fandom, furry fans used to gather mostly at [[science fiction]], [[fantasy]], and [[comic]] conventions before the [[furry parties]] broke out into full-fledged [[furry]] conventions.

==== 1960s ====

In the late 60’s the beginnings of a backlash against this could be seen. The pop culture of the late sixties and early 70’s used funny animal imagery in many creative works meant for adults. The Beatles wearing [[fursuit]]s on the cover of Magical Mystery Tour and the advent of Robert Crumb’s [[Fritz the Cat]] showed that many creative people saw more use for animal characters than children’s entertainment.

==== 1970s ====

In 1976, Furry Folk also became the name of a popular line of animal [[puppet]]s.<ref>[http://www.allthingsbright.com/FurryFolk/index.html Furry Folk Puppets] - example of the term Furry gaining popularity in the 70's.</ref> From that time, the term “Furry” has gradually gained popularity as an alternative to the term “Funny Animals,” as it does not carry a connotation of humor, and it is inclusive of all fantasy animals, not just the ones that walk upright and wear clothes. The term has today reached such prominent use that it is not unheard of for reviewers to refer to the characters in such films as [[Over The Hedge]] as “Furries.” <ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/18/AR2006051802306.html?sub=AR Critters Offer Consumer Retorts] - review in which the characters in Over The Hedge are referred to as furries.</ref>

The term “Funny Animals” soon spread beyond comic strips and into the realm of illustrated children's books. Authors such as Palmer Cox, Laura Rountree Smith and Neil Wayne Northey not only referred to their anthropomorphic characters as “Funny Animals,” they also referred to them collectively as “the furry folk” and “furry friends.” <ref>[http://72.14.209.104/search?q=cache:CZWdgw8LLhkJ:remnantprophecy.sdaglobal.org/Librarypdf/Children%27s/Paddletail-Beaver.pdf+Furry+Folk&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=437 Neil Wayne Northey's Paddletail] - example of early 20th century literature with the term Furry Folk highlighted throughout.</ref>

The term “Furry” has since remained in the background of animal related fantasy. Particularly in the English folk culture scene. As late as 1978, bands like Genesis and Jethro Tull were still using this furry folk terminology to refer to anthropomorphic animals in their songs.<ref>[http://64.233.161.104/search?q=cache:k-4PKXz_s3sJ:www.lyricsfreak.com/j/jethro%2Btull/the%2Bmouse%2Bpolice%2Bnever%2Bsleeps_20071013.html+little+furry+folk&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=40 The Mouse Police Never Sleeps] 1978 Jethro Tull lyrics with Furry Folk highlighted.</ref>

Serious animal literature soon began to appear that proved to have surprising appeal for adults. Richard Adams’ [[Watership Down]] and Richard Bach’s [[Wikipedia:Jonathan Livingston Seagull|Jonathan Livingston Seagull]] topped the best seller list in the early 70’s.

In the late 70’s, attitudes began to change again. Fantasy in general began to enjoy more respect among adult audiences, eventually becoming a major entertainment market in which there was considerable room for furry elements, such as the [[Wikipedia:Ewoks|Ewoks]] and [[Wikipedia:Wookiees|Wookiees]] of [[Star Wars]], and the mythical creatures in [[Wikipedia:Piers Anthony|Piers Anthony]] novels.

==== 1980s ====

The fandom for furry characters traces its organization back to a science fiction convention in 1980,<ref>''[http://www.arclight.net/~yarf/YARF_Chronology.html Yarf Chronology Of Furry Fandom]''</ref> when a drawing of a character from [[Steve Gallacci]]’s Albedo started a discussion of anthropomorphic characters in science fiction novels, spawning a discussion group that met at various [[science fiction]] and [[comics]] [[convention]]s.

In 1980, at the [[Worldcon|World Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Boston, Massachusetts|Boston, Massachusetts]], an [[Erma Felna]] painting by [[Steve Gallacci]] was entered in the art show. The [[funny animal]] artwork in an otherwise realistic setting drew attention among fans showing a common interest in [[science fiction]] and [[fantasy]] about intelligent animals. This led to an informal series of gatherings at Worldcons and [[Westercon]]s, which eventually branched into a club centered around [[Rowrbrazzle]] to organize more "formal" [[furry parties]].

1982 saw the release of four all ages furry films - [[The Secret Of NIMH]], [[The Flight Of Dragons]], [[The Last Unicorn]] and [[The Plague Dogs]]. While the fantasy novel market soon began producing such titles as Alan Dean Foster’s [[Spellsinger]] series, Brian Jacques’ [[Redwall]] and Tad Williams’ [[Tailchaser’s Song]]. And the independent comics market produced titles as varied as [[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles]], [[Albedo]], [[Usagi Yojimbo]], [[Cutey Bunny]], [[Critters]] and [[Omaha The Cat Dancer]].

Over the next several years, a gradually increasing number of “furry fans” developed [[fanzines]] and eventually began to have gatherings at house parties. By 1987 enough interest had been generated for the first furry convention.

As the internet became more accessible, it became the most popular means for furry fans to keep in touch and share their artistic efforts. This gained the fandom higher visibility and it began to grow rapidly.

Virtual environments, such as [[MUD|MUCK]]s, soon became the most popular places on the net for furry fans to meet and communicate. One of the oldest and largest MUCKs in existence is [[FurryMUCK]]. One of the newest virtual environments to attract furry fans is [[Second Life]].

Near the beginning of the 80’s, the furry genre enjoyed the first explosion of popularity it had seen since the 1930’s. Furry characters littered the animation world as well as toy stores. But there was also adult furry entertainment.

In 1985, at the [[San Diego Comic Convention]], Judy Niver (one of the founders of the [[C/FO]]), hosted a party in her room at the Hotel San Diego. The [[Rowrbrazzle]] APA group was also having a party in the same hotel, and there was much overlap in attendance. After that party at Comic Con, it became a tradition to have at least one furry party during the convention. In more recent years, the Comic Con party has been called [[CritterConDiego]] and [[Califur Diego]].

Also, at the 1985 [[Westercon]] Science Fiction Convention in [[wikipedia:Sacramento Valley|Sacramento]], [[wikipedia:California|California]], [[Mark Merlino]] and [[Rod O'Riley]] hosted a [[room party]] in Sheldon and Tony Linker's room. Most room parties at sci-fi and fantasy cons have a theme, so the party was called The [[Prancing Skiltaire]] party, named after Mark's apartment. The show [[Animalympics]] was screened, along with some [[Warner Bros.]] short cartoons, and collections of [[furry art]]work and [[:Category:Short stories|short stories]] were on display. Several visitors to the party were very interested in the videos and the art. Some showed [[sketchbook]]s and collections of their furry art. Their party at the 1986 Westercon in [[wikipedia:San Diego, California|San Diego]], CA, was the first to be openly called a [[furry party]]. After the success of these parties, Mark and Rod began hosting similar events at conventions all over California.

In 1989, [[Mark Merlino]] and [[Rod O'Riley]] decided to expand on the furry party concept and host the first prototype [[furry convention]], [[ConFurence Zero]]. ConFurence continued to be the premier international gathering place of furry fans, until other independent furry-themed conventions were organized.

==== 1990s ====

By the start of the 90’s, the furry genre was finally starting to gain recognition as a unique segment of the arts with a specifically adult aged fandom that products could be marketed to. But this idea was not readily understood or accepted. And, as the fantasy boom of the 80’s began to subside, the promoters of the new furry market were driven underground, where they found companionship with another fledgling market, [[anime]].

On the [[wikipedia:United States|U.S.]] east coast, furry fans were gathering at the [[wikipedia:New York|New York]] chapter of the [[C/FO]], founded by [[Ken Sample]] and friends. [[Ray Rooney]] and [[Major Matt Mason]] hosted parties in their suite at [[wikipedia:Philcon|Philcon]] in [[wikipedia:Philadelphia|Philadelphia]] for several years. Philcon eventually hosted the first major Furry [[art show]] and [[dealer's room]]. In 1994, [[Trish Ny]] organized [[Furtasticon]], a prototype east coast furry convention at the [[wikipedia:Holiday Inn|Holiday Inn]], next to the [[Adam's Mark]] hotel, Philcon's venue. Trish went on to found [[ConFurence East]] in 1995.

In 1996, at the [[Worldcon|World Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Anaheim, California|Anaheim, California]], the [[Furry Fandom Lounge]] was organized by the [[ConFurence]] committee as five-day furry programming track. The general Worldcon program schedule publicized the furry parties, panels, and exhibits which even included a glass-encased "History of Furry Fandom" display by [[David Bliss]].

In 1997, [[Anthrocon]] is first held in [[wikipedia:Albany, New York|Albany, New York]] and goes on to become the largest [[furry convention]] to date.

In 1999, at the [[NASFiC|North American Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Anaheim, California|Anaheim, California]], the [[Furry Fandom Lounge]] reflected on 15 years of fandom. That year also saw the launch of [[Further Confusion]] in the Bay Area of [[wikipedia:San Francisco, CA|San Francisco, CA]], which eventually becomes the second largest [[furry convention]] in the world.

==== 2000s ====

Today, those furry fans who have discovered the large concentration of fellow fans on the net have joined with them to create the virtual society that is the collective furry community. Other furry fans, particularly the computer illiterate, remain isolated in their interest with little to no awareness that there is an organized community for fans of the furry genre.

Depictions of anthropomorphic animals was firmly established by the start of the 20th century. Since then it has enjoyed many ups and downs in terms of popularity and acceptability among adults. Particularly in the early 20th century, fantasy animal characters were an object of fascination to children and adults alike, appearing in almost every conceivable type of entertainment and establishing themselves as a major marketing tool, not only of consumer products, but of political ideas. This was best demonstrated In 1945 by George Orwell’s [[Animal Farm]].

In the later half of the 20th century, general attitudes towards animal related fantasy changed. Cartoons and literature focused most of their animal related efforts on the children’s entertainment market, inspiring many to believe that cartoons and animal stories were strictly for kids. Though this does not seem to have prevented adults from continuing to enjoy the antics of funny animals in the comic strips.

Since then, the mainstream entertainment industry has continued to create many works with anthropomorphic animals which are mostly directed at children, while the furry community has steadily grown on the internet providing entertainment for audiences of all ages.

In 2003, Dr. Samuel Conway (also known as [[Uncle Kage]] of [[Anthrocon]]) was a [[guest of honor]] at the [[I-CON]] science fiction and fantasy convention in [[wikipedia:Stony Brook, New York|Stony Brook, New York]]. His renowned story hour has since become a fixture of the convention through recent years.

In 2006, at the [[NASFiC|North American Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:SeaTac, Washington|SeaTac, Washington]], the [[Stalking Cat]] was one of the notable program participants.

At the 2006 [[Westercon]] in [[wikipedia:San Diego, California|San Diego]], a 20th anniversary furry party was held.

At the 2006 [[Worldcon|World Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Anaheim, California|Anaheim, California]], the [[Furry Fandom Lounge]] returned under the organization of [[Rod O'Riley]] of the [[Califur]] group. The programming track included a furry artist reception and panels ranging from [[fursuit]]ing basics to the new world of furry [[webcomic]]s.

== The Internet ==

By 1992, furry fans could participate in on-line social role-playing environments for free, if they had access to the Internet. [[MUCK]]s, Mushes and [[MOO]]s were created by furry fans for furry fans and hosted at educational and commercial sites. With the dawn of the World Wide Web, furry fans found their Mecca, with personal web sites, art and writing archives and forums providing a way for furry fans to communicate and share their interests internationally. [[Yerf]] and [[YiffCo]] and [[VCL]] and other art archives soon dominated the art scene.

In the late 1990's, [[David J. Rust]] (aka [[Sylvan]]), attempted to document the internal social dynamics and trends within Furry fandom. While originally intended to be a [[fan film]] documentary, the research he conducted from 1996 - 1997 was eventually collated into [[The Sociology of Furry Fandom, a Subculture Study]], the first academic study of [[furry sociology]].

== Small press publishers ==
{{Split}}
Comics were the driving force in the early days, largely thanks to the wellspring of anthro-based comics that erupted on the American scene with the success of [[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles]] in the mid-'80s. Literally dozens of titles came and went, many of which simply attempted to copy the TMNT formula in order to make a fast buck. These ranged from the execrable (ala [[Adolescent Radioactive Black Belt Hamsters]], [[Geriatric Ju-Jitsu Gerbils]]) to genuinely readworthy (as with [[Pre-Teen Dirty-Gene Kung-Fu Kangaroos]]).

Of more interest were the burgeoning ranks of anthro comics which didn't seek to follow in TMNT's tracks. Some even pre-dated TMNT, as with StarReach's [[Duck!]], which not only parodied the short-lived "Duck Craze" of the late '70s (remember "Disco Duck"? Right.), but also showcased then-new talents like Dave Sim ([[The Beavers]]) and Michael T. Gilbert ([[The Wraith]]). Independents and a wide divergence of topics abounded: Steve Gallacci ([[Albedo]]) wrote of animals warring amid the stars under the strict laws of Einsteinian physics, while Vicky Wyman (Xanadu) produced exquisitely-drawn fantasy romances starring [[unicorn]] empresses and [[gryphon]] wizards. Meanwhile, Jim Groat's [[GraphXPress]] came out with parodies of Conan and Red Sonja in the form of [[Equine the Uncivilized]] and [[Red Shetland]]. Independent comic-book greats such as Donna Barr ([[Stinz]]) and Stan Sakai ([[Usagi Yojimbo]]) built their first readerships amongst the ranks of furries.

Even the mainstream publishers tried to get in on the act, with much less success --- Marvel's [[Power Pachyderms]] isn't known to have any fans even amongst diehard furries. DC's [[Captain Carrot and His Amazing Zoo Crew]] took a more "Hanna Barbara" approach and won some support, but not enough to keep from going under as well.

Fantagraphics then published the funny-animal anthology [[Critters]] for fifty issues, after which point it appeared that anthro comics were running out of steam. The TMNT craze had created massive speculation in the comics market, which inevitably resulted in an equally massive backlash when investors attempted to sell their bootleg copies of poorly-drawn books and found that no one wanted to buy them. Whole publishing companies went under almost overnight, taking a number of exceptional anthro comics with them (such as [[Nervous Rex]], a splendid book of surrealist comedy which happened to be published by Blackthorne, which itself became almost universally recognized --- after the fact --- as a fly-by-night ripoff operation).

By 1991, only a few anthro comics continued to maintain any kind of pretense at a publication schedule. Enter Ben Dunn's [[Antarctic Press]]. Mr. Dunn had previously created his own anthro title ([[Of Mice and Men]]) and had built a small independent publishing company on the strength of imported [[manga]] titles and a flagship manga-industry comic called [[Mangaphile]]. [[Furrlough]] was the first genuinely non-manga comic produced by Antarctic, and was shortly swamped with submissions by creators who had teethed during the "TMNT Boom/Bust". Eventually, [[Genus]] was created to allow for the publication of NC17/X-rated material.

The success of Furrlough and, later, Genus, catapulted Antarctic Press into serious competition with long-standing industry independents. Able to expand even further now, Ben Dunn created [[Warrior Nun Areala]], which was non-anthro but whose overnight success greatly overshadowed the anthro line. To free up resources necessary to further promote [[Warrior Nun Areala]] and its related merchandise, AP cut loose the entirety of its anthro line ([[Gold Digger]] not being counted, as AP did not consider it to be a "furry" title).

[[Radio Comix]] was quickly formed by then-AP-editor Elin Winkler and a number of pro-anthro stalwarts to keep Furrlough and Genus alive. Small but steady sales combined with a lean and smart business plan have allowed Radio to slowly prosper to the point where it has been able to expand to carry other lines as well as publish the occasional one-shot or miniseries. Other existing anthro comic publishers include [[MU Press]], [[GraphXPress]], [[Shanda Fantasy Arts]], [[Backbreaker Studios]] and [[Dream Weaver Press]].

In terms of "fannish cred", being published as a comic artist was second only to being a animator at Disney. The top comic artists in furry were the real stars of Furrydom since they were the direct producers of what was readily available. More recently, due to online archives and forums catering to artists on the Internet, as well as sales of prints and art collection CDs, the fandom's focus has slowly moved away from sequential art and more into the realm of "classic", or single-frame, works. At the same time, the number of [[webcomic]]s produced by anthro artists has escalated into the hundreds, some of which are exceptionally good.

This shift is readily explainable: producing a comic book is an expensive and time-consuming affair. Even a small run of a few thousand issues of an average-sized book can cost thousands of dollars to print, and then it must be distributed and fight for shelf space in tightly-packed comic stores. Once it gets there, it may simply be ignored amid the hundreds of brightly-colored titles of the competition. Internet publication avoids all of these problems, offering the artist the likelihood of potential return with virtually no investment.

Another important point is that, as with Science Fiction, Fantasy and Comic Fandoms, fanzines became an important part of Furry Fandom. Amateur Press Associations (APAs) produced "APAzines" like [[Vootie]] and [[Rowrbrazzle]]. These provided a place for artists and writers of the Funny Animal genre to showcase their work and critique each other in the days before online archives and forums were quite so commonplace. APAs are generally exclusive groups, with limited memberships, and the zines produced were usually for members only, although some notable exceptions existed.

Later, [[wikipedia:shared universe|shared universe]] and collection magazines were published. Furry fans could subscribe to these magazines, or purchase them at convention dealer’s rooms. The first furry collection magazine, [[FurVersion]], published by [[Karl Maurer]], was born at a furry party at [[Baycon]] in San Jose, Ca, in 1987. [[Yarf!]], published by [[Jeff Ferris]], became the longest running collection magazine, with over 40 issues. Rowrbrazzle, the fandom's flagship and longest-running APAzine, is published on a quarterly basis with over 85 issues to its credit.

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* The [[YARF!]] ''[http://yarf.furry.com/chronology.html Chronology of Furry Fandom]'' by [[Fred Patten]]

[[Category:Culture]]
[[Category:History]]
[[Category:Sociology]]
[[Category:Timelines]]

User:Brody

2007-09-11T19:51:11Z

130.76.96.15:

{{ContributorU|Brody Catsmouth}}

You know, contributing to Wikifur sure does put a lot of creedence into the camp of furry as a culture in the current battle of fandom vs. culture. As always, I teeter on the fence.

{{User RCFM}}
{{User FWA}}
{{User MFM}}
{{User Anthrocon}}
{{User Fur Affinity Name|brodycatsmouth}}
{{User LiveJournal name|brodycatsmouth}}
{{User Second Life Name|Brody Baggio}}

Bloodhound

2007-09-11T19:30:54Z

130.76.96.15: Changed from "Kimb Baldwin". Please delete old one.

'''Kim Baldwin''' (previously '''Kim Kirkdorfer''') (born August 27, 1981) is a married [[artist]] living in America. She was introduced to [[furry]] in 2000, and this "started a snowballing of [[anthropomorphic]] work".<ref>[http://www.pugfaceproductions.com/whoiskim.html Who is this Kim person?] at pugfaceproductions.com. Retrieved July 22, 2006.</ref> Her work focuses mostly on realistic body types and eroticism, and shows her animation background. She is the creator of Bloodhound, a red and white [[pit bull]]. Bloodhound can sometimes be found on [[Tapestries MUCK]], and her art is found at [[FurAffinity]].

Bloodhound is not to be confused with [[Bloodhound Omega]].

== Reference ==
<references/>

== External links ==
* [http://www.furaffinity.net/user/bloodhound/ FurAffinity]
* [http://www.pugfaceproductions.com/ PugFace Productions]
* [http://us.vclart.net/vcl/Artists/K-Squared/ Kim's gallery] at the VCL

{{person-stub}}

[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Artists]]
[[Category:Pit Bull characters]]
[[Category:1981 births]]

Bloodhound

2007-09-11T19:30:46Z

130.76.96.15: title is supposed to be "Kim Baldwin". All text moved. Please delete this page!

sent to [[Kim Baldwin]]

Kim Kirkdorfer

2007-09-11T19:28:41Z

130.76.96.15: Redirecting to Kim Baldwin

#REDIRECT [[Kim Baldwin]]

North Alabama Regional Furs

2007-09-05T17:55:36Z

130.76.96.15:

The '''North Alabama Regional Furs''', often abbreviated simply as '''NARF''', is a regional furry group based in and around [[Wikipedia:Huntsville, Alabama|Huntsville, Alabama]]. NARF is best known for producing [[Rocket City Fur Meet]] on Memorial Day weekend each year. They also host the [[Furry Feeding Frenzy]] every month.

==Members==
Some notable members of NARF include:
* [[Brody Catsmouth]] - Lead singer of [[Critical Fail]], founder and co-chair of [[RCFM]]
* [[Kiran Lightpaw]] - comedian, writer, staff member at [[FWA]] and [[RCFM]]
* [[KO]] - chairman and CEO of [[RCFM]]
* [[Zeek Harper]] - [[Fursuiter]], and maintainer/moderator for Rainbow Ark

== External links ==
* [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/narfgroup/ NARF yahoogroup]

{{organization-stub}}
[[Category:Organizations]]
[[Category:Alabama]]
[[Category:Social groups]]

North Alabama Regional Furs

2007-09-05T17:52:47Z

130.76.96.15:

North Alabama Regional Furs

2007-09-05T17:51:24Z

130.76.96.15: +cat

The '''North Alabama Regional Furs''', often abbreviated simply as '''NARF''', is a regional furry group based in and around [[Wikipedia:Huntsville, Alabama|Huntsville, Alabama]]. NARF is best known for producing [[Rocket City Fur Meet]] on Memorial Day weekend each year. They also host the [[Furry Feeding Frenzy]] every month.

==Members==
Some notable members of NARF include:
* [[Brody Catsmouth]] - Lead singer of [[Critical Fail]], founder and co-chair of [[RCFM]]
* [[Crazywolf]] - comedian
* [[Kiran Lightpaw]] - comedian, writer, staff member at [[FWA]] and [[RCFM]]
* [[KO]] - chairman and CEO of [[RCFM]]
* [[Zeek Harper]] - [[Fursuiter]], and maintainer/moderator for Rainbow Ark

== External links ==
* [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/narfgroup/ NARF yahoogroup]

{{organization-stub}}
[[Category:Organizations]]
[[Category:Alabama]]
[[Category:Social Groups]]

News:Rocket City FurMeet posts 40% growth, security insurrection removes chairman

2007-09-04T21:32:44Z

130.76.96.15: KO was not chair until 6 months before first RCFM.

{{date|May|29|2007}}{{publish}}
[[Image:RocketCityFurMeet5.png|right|Rocket City FurMeet Sci-Five]]
[[Wikipedia:Huntsville, Alabama|HUNTSVILLE, Alabama]] - The fifth annual [[Rocket City FurMeet]] held here over the weekend posted a 40% growth in attendance, going from 229 to 332 attendees and moving to the [[List of conventions by attendance|ninth largest furry convention]].

The weekend was oriented around "fur, food, and fun" in a relaxed environment, with a range of activities from [[fursuit]] games to panels to computer gaming to extensive [[Second Life]] programming. [[Guests of honor]] included [[AnimeCat]], [[Robert Carspecken|Robert]] and [[Margaret Carspecken]], and [[Wikipedia:Jeff Goode|Jeff Goode]], and the panelist of Honor was [[Commander Kitsune]].

Staff member X, on whom all problems during the meet are blamed, was [[Santa Fox]], and staff member X for the rest of year was [[Brody Catsmouth]]. Over $2000 was also raised for charity over the weekend, helped by an emotional [[closing ceremonies]] where many attendees donated again. [[Tallyhawk]] was made a lifetime member of the convention due to his many contributions to the con.

During the closing ceremonies, [[Alexander Katz]] led an apparent insurrection with his security team against [[KO]], who has led Rocket City Furmeet since its first year. Alex's security forces stormed the room and removed KO along with his top aides, while Alex announced that he had taken control, and that "all attendees were to immediately register for 2008 as Boosters."

==Sources==
* [http://kiranlightpaw.livejournal.com/323041.html Post-RCFM Con Report], [[Kiran Lightpaw]], personal [[LiveJournal]] (May 29, 2007).
<references />
{{convention news}}

Brody Catsmouth

2007-09-04T21:28:39Z

130.76.96.15:

'''Brody Catsmouth''' lives in Huntsville, Alabama, U.S.A. He was the creator of ''Brody's Music Shop'' on [[Tapestries]]. He founded [[Rocket City Furmeet]] in 2002 and is currently its co-chair and treasurer.

Brody currently is the lead singer and guitarist of the furry rock band [[Critical Fail]], has done improv comedy at [[convention]]s (with fellow comedians [[Kiran Lightpaw]], [[Flain Falcon]], [[Crazywolf]], [[Tigerpaw]], and others), and [[MC|emcee]]s for events at conventions. He runs an amateur recording studio out of his home.

Brody's personal character is a [[Lion]].

== External links ==
{{Contributor|Brody}}
* [http://www.furnation.com/brody/ Brody's Home Page]
* [http://www.soundclick.com/kennethbarnes Mp3 Page]
* ''[http://brodycatsmouth.livejournal.com/ Holy crap there's a cat in my name]'' - Brody's [[LiveJournal]]
* [http://us.vclart.net/vcl/Artists/Brody-Catsmouth/ Brody Catsmouth] at [[VCL]]
* [http://www.furaffinity.net/user/brodycatsmouth/ Brody Catsmouth] at [[Fur Affinity]]

[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Artists]]
[[Category:Musicians]]
[[Category:Rocket City FurMeet staff]]
[[Category:Lion characters]]
[[Category:Alabama]]
[[Category:Tapestries characters]]