WikiFur - User contributions [en]

Category:Companies

2024-02-26T22:21:25Z

Lumin City: /* P-Z */ Removed The Tail Company after creating the page.

This category contains '''companies''' in the business of producing or selling products that are or have been related to furry fandom.

For studios of artists, please see [[:Category:Studios]].

== Companies to add ==
Just click on a title to start writing an entry. Be sure to include '''<nowiki>[[Category:Companies]]</nowiki>''' in the entry so that it shows up on this category page. If you can think of other companies that deserve to be written about, please add it here.

{| width="100%"
|- valign="top"
||
===# & A-N===
* [[Cockbender]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://www.furaffinity.net/user/cockbender/ FA], [http://www.cockbender.com/ site])
* [[Creature Feature Toys]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://creaturefeaturetoys.com/ site], [https://twitter.com/_CFToys Twitter], [https://web.archive.org/web/20211027050326/https://rv.furaffinity.net/images/ce761be95136578c5ba7c37fd6b9aad1.gif banner at FA])
* [[CustomFur]] ([https://customfurshop.com/ website], [https://twitter.com/CustomFurShop Twitter])
* [[Exotic Erotics]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://www.exotic-erotics.com/ website])
* [[Hawt Fur]] (warning: '''NSFW''') ([http://hawtfur.com/ website])
* [[A Krows Nest]] ([http://www.akrowsnest.com/ website], [http://www.furaffinity.net/user/akrowsnest FA], [https://twitter.com/akrowsnest Twitter])
* [[Kudu Voodoo]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://kuduvoodoo.net/ website])
* [[Mayamada]] ([http://www.mayamada.com/ website], [http://channelmayamada.tumblr.com/ Tum], [https://twitter.com/mayamada Tw])
* [[Moon Fox Toys]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://www.moonfoxtoys.com/ website], [https://twitter.com/moonfoxtoys twitter])
* [[Naughty Fox]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://www.naughty-fox.com/ website], [https://www.etsy.com/shop/NaughtyFoxDE Etsy], [https://www.furaffinity.net/user/naughty-fox FA], [https://twitter.com/NaughtyFoxDE Twitter])
* [[Neotori]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://www.neotori.com/ website], [https://www.furaffinity.net/user/neotori/ FA], [https://www.twitter.com/Neotori_Toys Twitter])
* [[Nomad Complex]] ([https://nomadcomplex.com/ website], [http://www.furaffinity.net/user/nomadcomplex FA], [https://twitter.com/NomadComplex Twitter]) (new source of Bandanimals)
* [[Sensual Succubus]] ([https://sensualsuccubus.com/ website], [https://twitter.com/SensualSuccubu1 Twitter], [https://www.reddit.com/user/SensualSuccubuss Reddit])
||

===P-Z===
* [[Paw to Press]] ([https://paw-to-press.com/ site], [https://twitter.com/Paw_To_Press Twitter])
* [[Rexalpha]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://rexalpha.co.uk/ website], [https://twitter.com/rexalphauk Twitter])
* [[Sega]] ([https://www.sega.co.uk/ website])
* [[Twin Tail Creations]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://twintailcreations.com/ website], [https://twitter.com/TwinTailToys Twitter] & [https://twintailtoys.tumblr.com/ Tumblr])
* [[Weasel Gear]] ([https://www.weaselgear.com/ website], [https://twitter.com/WeaselGear Twitter])
* [[Weredog]] (warning: '''NSFW''')([https://weredog.co.uk/ website], [https://www.instagram.com/weredogtoys/ instagram], [https://twitter.com/WeredogUK Twitter] and [https://www.facebook.com/weredoguk/ Facebook])
* [[YaffYoff]] ([https://yaffyoff.com/ website], [https://twitter.com/YaffYoff Twitter] and [https://rv.furaffinity.net/images/699275fc79758fe73a9e7eac9825a565.gif banner at FA])
|}

[[Category:Organizations]]
[[Category:Topics to add]]

[[es:Categoría:Compañías]]
[[ru:Категория:Компании]]

The Tail Company

2024-02-26T22:20:56Z

Lumin City: Created the article. Will expand on it over time.

'''The Tail Company''', aka "Mechanical Tail Company" is a [[cosplay]] company founded in 2015 making [[Wikipedia:Animatronic|animatronic]] animal [[tails]], [[ears]] and [[wings]].

== History ==
In 2006, they created their first "moving, lifelike tail" prototype and started wearing in. In 2018, they launched their first [[Wikipedia:Kickstarter|Kickstarter]] to fund the development of the "first one hundred Classic Tails", called the DIGITAiL. It has been updated to the MiTail. They then launched EarGear, mechanical wings. in 2022, they launched MiWings, mechanical wings.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://thetailcompany.com/about-our-tails/|title=Website FAQ |accessdate=February 26, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207062745/https://thetailcompany.com/about-our-tails/ |archivedate=March 18, 2019 |quote=Back in 2006, we started to create a moving, lifelike tail. Our first prototype was built, and we started wearing it! / By 2012, we launched our first Kickstarter which funded the development of the first one hundred Classic Tails. By 2015, The Tail Company was created. DIGITAiL was launched, then MiTail and EarGear. / 2022 and we have launched MiWings, our amazing mechanical wings.}}</ref>

=== Products ===

==== DIGITAiL ====
DIGITAiL is an animatronic tail that moves using [[Wikipedia:Servomotors|servomotors]].
===== MiTail =====
MiTail is an updated animatronic tail based on DIGITAiL.
==== EarGear ====
EarGear is a pair of ears that move using servomotors.
==== MiWings ====
MiWings are a pair of wings that move using servomotors.

== Media Coverage ==
The original DIGITAiL was featured on numerous news websites.

==References==
<references/>

==External links==

* [https://thetailcompany.com/ The Tail Company] official website
* [https://www.facebook.com/theTailCompany/ The Tail Company] on [[Facebook]]
* [https://www.instagram.com/thetailcompany/ The Tail Company] on [[Instagram]]
* [https://www.tiktok.com/@thetailcompany/ The Tail Company] on [[TikTok]]
* [https://www.twitter.com/theTailCompany/ The Tail Company] on [[Twitter]]
* [https://www.youtube.com/@TheTailCompany/ The Tail Company] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://t.me/joinchat/VCdXxqKgRv2yrDNC The Tail Company] on [[Telegram]]

{{Stub}}
[[Category: 2015 births]]
[[Category: Companies]]

Talk:LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ

2024-02-26T22:18:05Z

Lumin City: Responding to Cubbi.

== Vandalism Accusations ==
This is a response to [[User:Cubbi|Cubbi]]'s accusations of vandalism. The edit was a [[WF:AGF|good faith]] summarization of "18 years of history". Along with this, there are no citations in the article, including the future date, which is speculatory. It's very hard to be neutral on an article one has significant involvement in, especially running an event since 2009. I don't believe it's appropriate for one who runs an event to significantly contribute to an article, and reverting edits from an outsider as a result only adds to this conflict of interest.
: Your personal conflict of interest w.r.t this event makes it hard to assume good faith, not to mention content removal while name-dropping Wikipedia policies (and no, the ones mentioned above do not apply) fits the common fandom wiki vandalism pattern. --[[User:Cubbi|Cubbi]] ([[User talk:Cubbi|talk]]) 17:07, 26 February 2024 (EST)
:: A third revert was made after I specifically asked to "go to the discussion page for futher [sic] dicussion of the article". This makes it hard for me to believe the edits were being done in good faith. I'm unsure what my personal conflict of interest is in this article, the content wasn't removed but summarized. The policies named are Wikifur's policies, including the [[WF:V|citation policy]]. [[User:Lumin City|Lumin City]] ([[User talk:Lumin City|talk]]) 17:18, 26 February 2024 (EST)

LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ

2024-02-26T21:52:49Z

Lumin City: Undo revision 582949 by Cubbi (talk) Please go to the discussion page for futher dicussion of the article.

{{Unreferenced}}

The LIFurs '''OMGWTFBBQ''' is an annual [[W:BBQ|BBQ]] [[furmeet|meetup]] hosted by the [[Long Island Furs]], which has become the largest and longest-running [[furry]] gathering in [[W:Long Island|Long Island, New York]].{{fact}} It traditionally takes place over a weekend at the picnic area of [[W:Sunken Meadow State Park|Sunken Meadow State Park]], centrally located on the north shore of [[W:Long Island|Long Island]]. It is a free event (except for parking) filled with food, [[fursuiting]], games, and visits to the beach and boardwalk.

== History ==
On August 28th, 2006, Nekonaru Letao hosted the first OMGWTFBBQ in their house and had 17 attendees.{{fact}} On July 28th, 2007, it took place in [[W:Eisenhower Park|Eisenhower Park]]. In 2008, [[Warszawa]] hosted it, and in 2009, with [[Cubbi (person)|Cubi]], having hosted it since. Warszawa had a Pre-Emptive Strike on June 6th, two months before the event. Between 2010 and 2012, there were nearby hotel [[room parties]] and other additional local events during the time between park closed and opened. In 2016, attendees received commemorative fabric lunch bags with "In Memory of [[JBadger]]" printed on them.{{fact}} In 2017, there was an impromptu fursuiter competition requested and judged by Park Police. [[Val]] and [[AmmyStar]] also gave commemorative beer steins, and also provided T-Shirts in 2018 and backpacks in 2019.{{fact}} It was not hosted in 2020 and 2021 due to the [[COVID-19]] pandemic. The last event in 2023 had over 120 attendees.{{fact}}

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Event Pictures" widths="200px" heights="200px">
File:omgwtfbbq-2019.jpg|14th annual LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ attendee badge. Photo by Cubbi
File:Omgwtfbbq-2018-dealer.jpg|A dealer table at LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ 2018. Photo by Cubbi.
File:Omgwtfbbq-2019-fursuiters.jpg|Fursuiters at LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ 2019. Photo by Warszawa.
File:Omgwtfbbq-2018-car-show.jpg|Mini-car show at LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ 2018. Photo by Cubbi.
</gallery>

== External Links ==
* [https://t.me/joinchat/JbUzZxfBuO9BZ9Wf6UQ4EQ LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ Chat] on Telegram
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/325882604169119/ Long Island Furs] on [[Facebook]]
* [https://omgwtfbbqli.carrd.co LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ info] on carrd.

[[Category:Events]]
[[Category:Long Island]]
[[Category:2006 births]]

Talk:LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ

2024-02-26T21:51:36Z

Lumin City: Responding to Cubbi's accusations of vandalism.

KovuTheHusky

2024-02-26T21:24:23Z

Lumin City: Removed the additioinal comma in the lead.

[[File:KovuTheHusky Fursuit.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Kovu's first fursuit photo]]
'''KovuTheHusky''', or just '''Kovu''' (real name '''Kevin Breslin''';<ref>[https://www.facebook.com/kovuthehusky/about KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[Facebook]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref> born on November 19, 1990),<ref>[http://kovuthehusky.livejournal.com/profile KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[LiveJournal]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref> is a [[gay]] [[male]] [[fursuiter]], [[programmer]], [[W:Computer scientist|computer scientist]], and [[video gamer]] who lives in [[W:New York City|New York, New York]], USA, with his husband [[NightWolf1298]] and boyfriend [[camwuff]].<ref>[https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[X (social media)|X]]. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

== Fandom involvement ==

KovuTheHusky has been a member of the [[furry fandom]] since February 2006, the founder and [[administrator]] of both [[MyFursona]], a [[W:Social network|social networking]] website for members of the [[fandom]], and [[Yiffbase]], a website (and an associated [[W:C (programming language)C#]] based [[W:Web crawler|web crawler]]) that indexes [[furry art]] from other websites.

He is the assistant director of the [[charity]] department at the [[furry convention]] [[Furpocalypse]] and worked in the [[Dealers Den]]/[[Artists Alley]] department at [[Pine Fur Con]] until it ended in 2019.

In October 2022, he founded [[Furcationland]], the spiritual successor to [[Pine Fur Con]], and is its current [[con chair]].<ref>[https://ghostarchive.org/archive/siIJo "(T)he board of directors, including @KovuTheHusky and @CodexDerg, our organization's Chair and Vice Chair!"] post on [[Furcationland]]'s X account. Dated October 6, 2022. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursona ===

Kovu's first [[fursona]] was a grey and white [[Siberian Husky]] made in 2010 named '''Kovu'''.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150429223753/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/4772416/ ''Clean reference sheet - by KovuTheHusky''] post by KovuTheHusky on [[Fur Affinity]]. Dated November 10, 2010. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> In 2011, his coat was changed to cyan and green<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150423173354/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/6267121/ ''Dangly badge - by KovuTheHusky''] post by KovuTheHusky on Fur Affinity. dated August 7, 2011. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> and thus became his current fursona.

On December 20, 2019, he posted a [[reference sheet]] of Kovu, drawn by [[furry artist]] [[NeonSlushie]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20240225044448/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/34296524/ ''Ref sheet (generic head)''] post by KovuTheHusky on Fur Affinity. Dated December 20, 2019. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===

His [[fursuit]] was made by ''[[MoreFurLess]]'', posting about it on his [[X (social media)|X]] account on May 13, 2020.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20200515030842/https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260404989647826945 ''AAAAA! He's real and he's mine!''] post on KovuTheHusky's X account. Dated May 13, 2020. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Convention attendance ===

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2011, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023
* [[BabyFur Con]] - 2023
* [[Biggest Little Fur Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Blue Ridge Furfare]] - 2022
* [[Condition]] - 2010
* [[DenFur]] - 2022
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2020, 2022
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023'''*'''
* [[FurFright]] - 2010, 2012, 2013
* [[Furnal Equinox]] - 2011
* [[Furry Migration]] - 2021
* [[Furry Weekend Atlanta]] - 2022
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022,'''**''' 2023'''**'''
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[IndyFurCon]] - 2021
* [[Megaplex]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Midwest FurFest]] - 2010, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[Motor City Furry Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[New Year's Furry Ball]] - 2019, 2021, 2022
* [[Pine Fur Con]] - 2019'''**'''
* [[Sin City Murr Con]] - 2022
* [[Texas Furry Fiesta]] - 2020, 2022

('''*''') [[Con chair]]<br>
('''**''') [[Staff member]]

== Trivia ==

Kovu's interests include the [[fandom]], [[W:Web development|web development]], [[W:Web standards|web standards]], [[W:Program|programming]], and [[video game|video]] and [[W:Tabletop game|tabletop game]]s.

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==
{{Contributor}}
* [https://kovu.dog Kovu.dog] - KovuTheHusky's official website
* [https://kovuthehusky.deviantart.com KovuTheHusky] on [[DeviantArt]]
* [https://furaffinity.net/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Fur Affinity]]
* [https://inkbunny.net/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Inkbunny]]
* [https://kovuthehusky.sofurry.com KovuTheHusky] on [[SoFurry]]
* [https://furrynetwork.com/KovuTheHusky KovuTheHusky] on the [[Furry Network]]
* [https://kovuthehusky.tumblr.com KovuTheHusky] on the [[Tumblr]]
* [https://facebook.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Facebook]]
* [https://bsky.app/profile/kovuthehusky.bsky.social KovuTheHusky] on [[BlueSky]]
* [https://tiktok.com/@kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[TikTok]]
* [https://twitter.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[X (social media)|X]]
* [https://t.me/KovuTheHusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Telegram]]
* [https://www.reddit.com/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Reddit]]
* [https://www.twitch.tv/KovuTheHusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Twich]]
* [https://www.patreon.com/kovuthehusky/creators KovuTheHusky] on [[Patreon]]
* [https://www.picarto.tv/KovuTheHusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Picarto]]
* [https://youtube.com/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://steamcommunity.com/id/KovuTheHusky KovuTheHusky] on [[W:Steam (software)|Steam]]

{{person-stub}}

[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:Programmers]]
[[Category:Video gamers]]
[[Category:Furcationland staff]]
[[Category:Furpocalypse staff]]
[[Category:Pine Fur Con staff]]
[[Category:Husky characters]]
[[Category:New York]]
[[Category:1990 births]]

LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ

2024-02-26T21:18:13Z

Lumin City: Undo revision 582944 by Cubbi (talk) Please elaborate on "strongly disagree with the change" in the discussion page.

FursonaPins.com

2024-02-26T21:14:23Z

Lumin City: Needs more info

{{Cleanup-context}}
[[File:FursonaPins.com-logo.png|thumbnail|right|Fursona Pins Logo.]]
'''Fursona Pins''' is a business that makes hard-enamel pins based off [[fursona]]s, as commissioned by their owners. They also make pins for various [[Furry conventions]].

They also offer a Pin of the Month service (similar to a book-of-the-month club).

A contest for designing the company logo got fourteen designs submitted.<ref>[https://www.freelancer.com/contest/Please-design-a-logo-for-an-enamel-pin-company-named-Fursona-Pins-It-should-be-themed-like-an-enamel-pin-in-the-shape-of-a-paw-1303901.html Please design a logo for an enamel pin company named "Fursona Pins." It should be themed like an enamel pin, in the shape of a paw.] contest at [[W:Freelancer.com|Freelancer.com]]. Retrieved October 16, 2018.</ref>

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==
* [https://www.fursonapins.com/ Fursona Pins] official website
* [https://twitter.com/FursonaPins Fursona Pins] on [[Twitter]]
* [https://www.patreon.com/FursonaPins Fursona Pins] on [[W:Patreon|Patreon]]

{{stub}}

[[Category:Companies]]

Long Island Furs

2024-02-26T20:48:55Z

Lumin City: Did significant copywriting and renamed the "Contact Info" section to "External Links" and moved it to the bottom of the page.

[[File:Lifurs logo.jpg|thumb|right|200px| Long Island Furs' unofficial logo]]

'''Long Island Furs''' is a [[Furry]] group based in [[Wikipedia:Long Island|Long Island, New York]] founded in 2006. It mainly comprises Furries living in [[Wikipedia: Suffolk County, New York|Suffolk County]] and [[Wikipedia: Nassau County, New York| Nassau County]], but also includes those in [[Wikipedia: New York City| New York City]]. The Telegram group has around 340 members{{when}} but doesn't have an official register.

== History ==
The group was initially started as a weekly diner run by [[Umgotts Studios]], including [[The Kemeeleon]], [[Mitsu]], [[Amadeus]], [[Lunamor]], and their friends, [[Joe Meyer]], [[Thilus]], and the ''Fur Keep'' crew ([[Gushi]], [[Michelle Latta]], and others).{{fact}} Before then, there were [[Eric Kern]]'s occasional furmeets and the annual furry track at [[I-CON]].{{fact}} Nekonaru Letao started the Long Island Furs [[LiveJournal]] Community,{{when}} officially organizing the group and having their first meetup at Nekonaru's [[LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ|OMGWTFBBQ]] in August of 2006. Early meets were coordinated on li-furs.org by [[Cubbi (person)|Cubbi]], but have migrated to Telegram groups.{{when}} They have bowling meets, public suiting, game nights, and house parties.

== External Links ==
*[https://t.me/+WQneCwkE_0L9j14u Telegram Chat Lobby]
*[https://www.facebook.com/groups/325882604169119/ Facebook Group]

[[Category:Regional groups]][[Category:LiveJournal communities]][[Category:Long Island]][[Category:2006 births]]

LIFurs OMGWTFBBQ

2024-02-26T20:36:02Z

Lumin City: Summarized the article.

WikiFur:Templates

2024-02-26T19:34:32Z

Lumin City: Unsure if the Ratings section is supposed to be on a seperate row, but removed the code regardless.

{{HelpTOC}}

'''Templates''' (also known as '''boiler-plate text''' or '''tags''') are common messages that can be used on a wiki to help notify readers of something important, or help group together articles in to predefined categories, or generally help to clean up and organise the wiki. We have a number of templates; some, such as [[Template:Spoiler|Spoiler]], you might have seen before on other wikis. Others are customised or changed to reflect this wiki's content.
==How to use==
To use a template, simply type its name inside double curly brackets like this: '''<nowiki>{{template}}</nowiki>'''

Some templates feature spaces where you can insert text. To use those, simply place a pipe between each field. So for example, if you typed:
:'''<nowiki>{{BlockedUser|for 300 years|eating the entire wiki's supply of jelly babies}}</nowiki>'''
You would get:
<center>
{|width="auto" style="border:2px dashed #cc0000;background:#f6ccaa;padding:2px"
|-
||[[Image:Stop hand.png|Banned|40px]]
||This user has been banned from editing Wikifur for 300 years by ruling of the administrators.<br/>This is because of eating the entire wiki's supply of jelly babies.
|}
</center>

Note that if a template specifies a category for the page, then the page will be added to the specified category. If you were to use the above template on another page that page would be added to the [[:Category:Banned Users|Banned Users]] category.
__NOTOC__
__NOEDITSECTION__

==Full list of Templates==
Here is a complete list of templates used on the site.

'''Note:''' The All Templates page is quite large and is not recommended for older computers or slow connections.
{| border="1"
|- valign="top"
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/General Templates|General]]</center>===
----
* Disambiguation
* Spoiler
* Wrong Title
* Wikipedia Quotation
* Current On-going Event
* In Use
* Contributor
* To Do
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Deletion Templates|Deletion]]</center>===
----
* Image for Deletion
* Speedy Deletion
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Image Page Templates|Image page]]</center>===
----
* Website Button
* Book, comic, CD, DVD, or game cover
* Logo
* Screenshots
* Second Life screenshots
* Press Pack
* Public Domain Image
* GNU Free Documentation Licence Image
* Limited license
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/User Page Templates|User Page]]</center>===
----
* User Page Notice
* Inactive User
* Contributor User Page
* Don't Vandalize
* Don't Vandalize 2
* Blocked User
* Assorted userboxes
|- valign="top"
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Revision Templates|Revision]]</center>===
----
* General cleanup
* Reads like an Advert
* Lacking context
* Identity is unclear
* Update
* Wikify
* Copyediting Needed
* References needed
** Specific section
* Empty section
* Citation needed
* Clarify
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Protection Templates|Protection]]</center>===
----
* Vandal Protection
* Dispute Protection
* Listed on the WikiFur Central page
* System Pages
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Warning Templates|Warning]]</center>===
----
* Neutral Point Of View
* Dubious Statement
* Disputed Content
* Controversial
* Inappropriate
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Related content templates|Related content]]</center>===
----
* Anatomy
* Image boards
* Podcasts
* Radio
* Blue Forest
* Maranatha
|- valign="top"
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Split and Merge Templates|Split and Merge]]</center>===
----
* Article needs Splitting
* Article needs Merging
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Stub Templates|Stubs]]</center>===
----
* General stub
* Section stub
* Character stub
* Comic stub
* Convention stub
* Fiction stub
* Internet stub
* Media coverage stub
* Movie stub
* Multiplayer world stub
* Person stub
* Species stub
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Special Templates|Special]]</center>===
----
* Sandbox Header
* Proposed Policy
* MU* logo
* [[:Category:Convention timelines]]
| width="25%"|
===<center>[[/Rating Templates|Ratings]]</center>===
----
* Not Yet Rated
* Rated G
* Rated PG
* Rating 14
* Rated MA
* Rated NC17
|- valign="top"
| colspan="4"|
===<center><big>[[/All Templates|All Templates]]</big></center>===
<center>
[[Special:AllPages/Template:|Automated list]]
</center>
|}

[[Category:WikiFur help]]

[[cs:WikiFur:Šablony]]
[[de:WikiFur:Hilfreiche Vorlagen]]
[[zh:WikiFur:模板]]

Free Fur All

2024-02-26T19:21:50Z

Lumin City: Added two templates and removed one.

{{Controversial}}
{{NPOV}}
{{unref}}
{{cleanup}}

{{Infobox convention
|name = Free Fur All
|logo = [[File:Freefuralllogoicon.png|235px]]
|subject = Anthro
|location = {{flagdiv|usa|[[W:Tulsa, Oklahoma|Tulsa, Oklahoma]], [[W:USA|USA]]}}
|url = https://ffacon.com/
|status = Ongoing
|organizer = Anthro West Open Organization Inc. (AWOO)
|first = July 29-31, 2022
}}
{{template:Free Fur All}}
[[File:AWOOAssociationLogo.jpg|right|245px]]
[[File:FFA2023header.png|right|thumb|235px|Free Fur All 2023's convetion website header. Art by (?)]]
[[File:Free Fur All poster.jpeg|right|thumb|235px|Free Fur All's promo video thumbnail design. Art by <nowiki>[[</nowiki>anonymous user<nowiki>]]</nowiki>.]]
[[File:FFATShirt2022.png|right|thumb|235px|Free Fur All 2022 T-Shirt Design. Art by <nowiki>[[</nowiki>anonymous user<nowiki>]]</nowiki>.]]
'''Free Fur All''' ('''''America's Anthro Convention''''') also known as '''FFA''', is an [[anthro]] [[convention]] that takes place in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA, and is run by the [[Anthro West Open Organization Inc.]] ('''AWOO''').

== Free Fur All 2022 ==

Free Fur All's first event took place on July 29-31, 2022 at the [https://www.glenpoolonline.com/167/Glenpool-Conference-Center Glenpool Conference Center] in [[W:Glenpool, Oklahoma|Glenpool, Oklahoma]].<ref>[https://ffacon.com/free-fur-all/venue Free Fur All's venue] page on the [[Anthro West Open Organization Inc.]]'s website. Retrieved November 3, 2021.</ref>

The [[W:Standup comedian|comedian]] and [[performer]] [[2, The Ranting Gryphon]] was featured as the [[guest of honor]] with the con's slogan being '''''Getting Back to Our Routes''''' (based on the acclaimed American road, [[W:U.S. Route 66|U.S. Route 66]]).

During the closing ceremony of 2022's event, a follow-up event for the next year's event was announced, and 2022 attendees were also allowed to receive a bonus "veteran" badge for registering within 24 hours of the announcement.

== Free Fur All 2023 ==

Free Fur All's second iteration took place on July 28-30, 2023. The theme was '''''Be my Wingman''''', with [[guests of honor]] being [[Jasonafex]] and [[Kabier]], with charity going to [http://www.safariszoo.com Lady Safaris' Zoo].

== Free Fur All 2024 ==

FFA 2024 is slated for July 28-30, with the theme being '''''Cyberpunk'''''.<ref>[https://twitter.com/FreeFurAllCon/status/1686104159504752641 ''Thank you all so much for coming out to #FreeFurAll23.''] post on X. Retrieved December 19, 2024.</ref>

== Controversy ==

In August/September 2021, fandom and [[non-fur]] fur-friendly users{{who}} expressed, personally or "in the name of the furry fandom",<ref>[https://twitter.com/wgtc_site/status/1433156978788999169 ''The furry fandom is unhappy with @AWOOAssociation's announcement of Free Fur All.] post by [https://wegotthiscovered.com We Got This Covered] on [[Twitter]]. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref> their unhappy comments with AWOO's Free Fur All convention perceived ties with the mainstream [[W:alternative right|Alternative right]] ('''Alt-right'''),<ref>[https://twitter.com/raptordoggo/status/1433652216691404810 ''Awoonation, I think? Looks like it's gonna be a big ole trump-worshipping circle jerk tho where they constantly make sad jokes about snowflakes and whine about how they can't get away with being openly racist anymore''] post by [[RAPTORDOG]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/UZIKING5/status/1433151356295163914 ''MAGACon''] post by [[UZIKING]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/CraftyCCoyote/status/1433808721495351300 ''FreeFurAll, the Furry convention designed by Trump supporters''] post by [[Crafty Coyote]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref> including [[furry|fur]] and [[non-fur]] [[W:conservative|conservative]] and/or [[W:libertarian|libertarian]] people{{who}} that are behind and/or helping the convention itself, and its announced [[guest of honor]] ('''2, The Ranting Gryphon'''), all of whom have been accused of ties to the alt-right.<ref>[https://twitter.com/supership79/status/1433111145531985923 ''not to mention that its guest of honor is disgraced furry shithead deuce gryphon. they really missed a chance to call this Fashcon''] post by [[Supership79]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref>

Users have accused these people and groups (such as the [[Furry Raiders]]) of being [[W:Racism|racist]], [[W:Misogynism|misogynist]], [[W:Homophobia|homophobic]], [[W:Transphobia|transphobes]], [[zoophile]] supporters, [[W:QAnon|QAnon]]s, [[W:Nazis|Nazis]], and being hateful in general in the past,{{cn}} and that they should not be able to host any type of [[furry meet]] or [[con]] because of such beliefs, using various ways to stop them, such as, for example, forcing the initial hosting hotel, the [https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tulse-marriott-tulsa-hotel-southern-hills/ Tulsa Marriott Southern Hills], to cancel their contract,<ref>[https://twitter.com/LiteralGrill/status/1433500998727872514 ''It's not impossible and is absolutely worth noting. People should make it clear they want Free Fur All destroyed, NOT [[TTFC]].''] post by [[Allie Capps]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/LiteralGrill/status/1433916635102920705 ''OOPSY DOODLE! It seems that Free Fur All still has a hotel block listed on its site, so the hotel manager might have lied during his statement!(.) It'd be a shame if their phones rang off the hook today asking about that...''] post by Allie Capps on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/LiteralGrill/status/1433120775888728064 ''Whoops, I accidentally dropped the contact information for the convention's hotel and charity! I hope nobody uses this for 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 reason!!!''] post by Allie Capps on Twitter. Retrieved September 4, 2021.</ref> or, according to some, some other disingenuous means such as making bomb<ref>[https://twitter.com/Blue_Dingolf/status/1433321784133230592 ''its always the left that's quick to make threats of violence, joking or not, because they'd take it deadly serious when on the receiving end''] post by [[Dingolf]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref> and mass shooting threats to the event,<ref>[https://twitter.com/FreezePeachWulf/status/1433804890631966723 ''Friendly reminder that the people whining about FreeFurAll, going so far as to make bomb and mass shooting threats to the event(...)''] post by [[FreezePeachWulf]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/Peach0veralls/status/1433534513104121883 ''The crazy people pissed about free fur all have devolved to making bomb threats''] post by FreezePeachWulf on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref> or track and [[W:Doxxing|doxx]] personnel involved with AWOO, Free Fur All, or friend and sympathizers.{{cn}}<ref>[https://twitter.com/LiteralGrill/status/1433652721077211138 ''Help me identify these last few Free Fur All staff members?''] post by Allie Capps on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref>

The accusations of AWOO's perceived/insinuated improprieties have included the Free Fur All's (now previous) event date and the 1921's [[W:Mass racial violence in the United States|racial]] [[W:Tulsa Massacre|Tulsa Massacre]]:
{{q|''Any one else notice the Free Fur All is taking place in Tulsa and ends 2 days before the anniversary of the Tulsa Massacre?(.) Not just me right?<ref>[https://twitter.com/SiggYeen/status/1433416180631539714 ''Any one else notice the Free Fur All is taking place in Tulsa and ends 2 days before the anniversary of the [[W:Tulsa Massacre|Tulsa Massacre]]?''] post by [[SigYeen]] on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref>}}
The Free Fur All's promo video thumbnail design:
{{q|the subtle aesthetic details in this flyer. the police badge-shaped logo. the [[W:Fascist|fashy]] monochrome-flag backdrop, referencing the bluestripe police flag. the constant red white and blue. my god, it even echoes [[W:Donald Trump|trump]]'s "lion" logo<ref>[https://twitter.com/supership79/status/1433110836013379584 ''the subtle aesthetic details in this flyer.''] post by Supership79 on Twitter. Retrieved September 3, 2021.</ref>}}
The AWOO's logo itself...:
{{q|Awoo Association's logo may be inspired by [[W:Grey Wolves (organization)|The Grey Wolves]], a violent [[W:White supremacy|white supremacist organization]]...}}
or the charity the con supports, Safari's Sanctuary:
{{q|Safari's Sanctuary has faced multiple accusations of animal abuse with the [[W:USDA|USDA]] previously revoking its license to operate. A man was also killed after a [[lion]]-[[tiger]] [[hybrid]] mauled him to death at the facility}}

The ongoing back-and-forth battle between both groups on [[W:Social media|social media]] continues as of September 2021.

=== Loss of the initial hosting venue ===

By September 15, 2021, AWOO posted that the initial venue was no longer available, <ref>[https://twitter.com/AWOOAssociation/status/1437982691480281088?s=20 #Uncancelable] Posted via [[Twitter]] on Sept 14, 2021, retrieved Sept 16, 2021</ref> blaming the "intolerant dark side of the anthro fandom's" threat of "civil unrest" for its loss.

Members on the opposing side blamed AWOO's woes and loss of venue on itself, particularly on the acts of some of its [[Staff|staff members]]{{who}} threatening, while on social media, users with acts of violence, all the way up to include the threat of outright murder,{{cn}} which were saved via screenshots on various web sites.{{cn}}

AWOO responded to the accusations by pointing out that these flagrant posts{{cn}} were made by non-AWOO staff people (in particular users [[KKKlyde]] and [[Cani Lupine]]){{cn}} on their Twitter accounts or on '''Free Fur All 2022 Unofficial Chat''', an unsanctioned "Free Fur All" social site.{{cn}}

=== Derogatory terminology (ongoing) ===

Some fur/non-fur users have come to describe FFA as '''FashCon''' (i.e. [[W:Fascist|Fascist Convention/Fascist Furries]], also as a tip to the hat to [[Tumblr]]'s failed [[W:DashCon|DashCon]][*] event)<ref>[https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/kelseyweekman/furry-free-fur-all-convention-backlash ''Furries Are Speaking Out Against Attendees Of A Convention With Ties To The Far Right''] article on [[W:Buzzfeed|Buzzfeed]]. Retrieved March 2, 2023.</ref> before even the first event went live, Regardless of an ongoing controversy or issue, due to their perceived beliefs of the con, staff, and supporters' "extremist views".

(*) FFA 2022 did include a [[W:Ball pit|ball pit]] a la DashCon as a self-deprecating joke.

== References ==
{{reflist|2}}

== External links ==
{{flayrah|node1=8453|title1=Turbulence in Tulsa as ousted Tails and Tornadoes president starts new convention in same hotel}}
* [https://www.facebook.com/FreeFurAllCon Free Fur All] on [[Facebook]]
* [https://twitter.com/FreeFurAllCon Free Fur All] on [[X (social media)|X]]
* [https://t.me/AWOOAssociation Free Fur All] on [[Telegram]]
* [https://www.youtube.com/@FreeFurAllCon Free Fur All] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.instagram.com/freefurallcon/ Free Fur All] on [[Instagram]]

=== Media ===

* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSpbOzhacSY Free Fur All] promotional video on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/kelseyweekman/furry-free-fur-all-convention-backlash ''Furries Are Speaking Out Against Attendees Of A Convention With Ties To The Far Right''] article on [[W:Buzzfeed|Buzzfeed]]
* [https://twitter.com/wgtc_site/status/1433156978788999169 ''A Furry Convention With Ties To The Alt-Right Was Announced And The Fandom Wants It Dead.''] article on [https://wegotthiscovered.com We Got This Covered]

{{Conventions}}
[[Category:Conventions]]
[[Category:Oklahoma]]
[[Category:2022 births]]

WikiFur:Templates/Revision Templates

2024-02-26T19:02:03Z

Lumin City: Added the update template and minor copyediting.

These templates are for articles that need change or improvement in some way. Of course, you yourself should have a go at revising but if that is not possible, please attach the correct tag so that others can do so.

{|border="1" style="width:100%;"
|-
|width="100"|'''Template Name'''
||'''Example'''
|width="300"|'''Where to use'''
|-
||{{[[Template:Cleanup|Cleanup]]}}
<br/>General Cleanup
||{{Cleanup}}
||Place this tag at the top of an article that needs cleanup to match WikiFur's style and format. If possible, use one of the specific tags below, but if more than two are needed, use this tag.
|-
||{{[[Template:Advert|Advert]]}}
<br/>Reads like an Advert
||{{Advert}}
||If an article reads like it's an advert for the topic rather than a balanced piece of writing about it, you should use this tag. While it might have been written by an advocate of the article's subject, it still might be worth listing to try rewriting page in to an article about it.
|-
||{{[[Template:Cleanup-context|Cleanup-context]]}}
<br/>Lacking Context
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||The introduction section of an article should be understandable to anyone who reads the article, even if they have no background knowledge. Please try to rewrite the opening section to make it easier to understand, even if the rest of the article is technical in language. Place this tag just under the opening section before other sections of the article.
|-
||{{[[Template:Identity|Identity]]}}
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||{{Identity}}
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|-
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|-
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LGBT in the furry fandom

2024-02-26T18:34:57Z

Lumin City: Lumin City moved page LBGT in the furry fandom to LGBT in the Furry fandom: Changed the acronym from LBGT to the more common LGBT.

{{copyedit}}
{{cleanup}}
{{wikify}}
{{unref}}
{{context}}
{{NPOV}}
[[File:Gay_flag.png|right|thumb|150px|The rainbow flag associated with [[wikipedia:homosexuality|homosexuality]] in and out of the [[furry fandom|fandom]].]]
The [[furry fandom]] is assumed to have a larger proportion of non-[[heterosexual]] individuals when compared to the general population.<ref name="rust"/>

== Studies ==

A lack of completely reliable survey data exists, though the informal, non-scientific studies that have been done suggest that the [[stereotype]] that many [[furries]]] are [[lesbian]], [[homosexual]], [[bisexual]] or [[transgender]] is at least aparently true, though not to the large extent it is often suggested.<ref name="rust"/> While some furries have suggested various theories as to why this is so, there has yet to be a definitive answer put forth.

[[Pressed Fur]] reported that some furries also subscribe to this view.<ref>[http://www.pressedfur.com/essay/postvixen/index.html "Sitting On the Third Side of the Fence"] by Hannah Kincaid from [[Pressed Fur]]</ref> Although he did not advocate the social construct theory, [[Wikipedia:Alfred Kinsey|Dr. Alfred Kinsey]] stated that "[[Males]] do not represent two discrete populations, heterosexual and homosexual... The living world is a continuum in each and every one of its aspects."<ref name="scale">[http://www.kinseyinstitute.org/research/ak-hhscale.html "Kinsey's Heterosexual-Homosexual Rating Scale"] from the [http://www.kinseyinstitute.org Kinsey Institute].</ref> He postulated a [[Wikipedia:Kinsey Scale|scale]] of sexual preferences from zero to six, zero being exclusively heterosexual.<ref name="scale"/>

===Rust survey===

There are multiple estimates of the percentage of gays in the furry fandom. It is often thought within the fandom that the number is high, possibly as high as 90%,<ref name="rust"/> but polls have shown differences in estimation.

A poll used in ''[[The Sociology of Furry Fandom]]'', a 2002 paper by [[David J. Rust]] hosted at [http://www.visi.com/~phantos/furrysoc.html The Darken Hollow], showed 25% heterosexual, 19% homosexual, and 48% bisexual out of 360 peopled polled.<ref name="rust">[http://www.visi.com/~phantos/furrysoc.html The Sociology of Furry Fandom]. Retrieved October 19, 2006.</ref> Rust concluded that "Truth be told, there are many more homosexual members of the fandom than in general society."<ref name="rust"/>

===IFPL poll===
An unscientific poll (of indeterminable date, but before 2005) on the [[IFPL]] used the [[Wikipedia:Kinsey scale|Kinsey scale]] to rate the measure of homosexuality in respondents:
{| border="2" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
|-
|- style="background-color: #C6E3FF"
| 12.9%
| (63/487)
| 0
| Exclusively heterosexual
|-
|- style="background-color: #A7B1EE"
| 18.3%
| (89/487)
| 1
| Predominately heterosexual, incidentally homosexual
|-
|- style="background-color: #CBABE2"
| 18.7%
| (91/487)
| 2
| Predominately heterosexual, more than incidentally homosexual
|-
|- style="background-color: #CF71EE"
| 14.8%
| (72/487)
| 3
| Equally heterosexual and homosexual
|-
|- style="background-color: #DF99D4"
| 11.3%
| (55/487)
| 4
|Predominately homosexual, more than incidentally heterosexual
|-
|- style="background-color: #F79FD1"
| 16.0%
| (78/487)
| 5
| Predominately homosexual, incidentally heterosexual
|-
|- style="background-color: #FFB1D8"
| 8.0%
| (39/487)
| 6
| Exclusively homosexual
|}
===Theories===
One viable theory involves [[Mark Merlino]], a former chair of [[ConFurence]] who co-founded the first furry [[conventions]]. [[Crush Yiff Destroy]] has suggested that Merlino actively recruited alternative lifestylers into the fandom, and that this influences furry demographics to this day.<ref>[http://www.crushyiffdestroy.com/show/merlino "Journey to the Center of Mark Merlino"]</ref>. Some speculate that the negative [[Wikipedia:social stigma|social stigma]] [[Wikipedia:Furry fandom#Media coverage|attached to the fandom]] keeps away heterosexual [[mundanes]] who would otherwise feel interested.

David Rust has stated that "The social variations for Furries may seem unusual from a generic, American viewpoint. However, from the position of a group of people who are already predisposed to enjoying anthropomorphic animals, other concepts such as homosexuality... seem somewhat mundane and unimportant by comparison."<ref name="rust"/>

==References==
<references/>

==External links==

*'''Bisexual'''
**[http://steamcommunity.com/groups/bisexualfurry Bisexual Furry (bifur)] on Steam
**[https://www.facebook.com/pages/GayFurryand-Bi-Pride/187236124681094 Gay,Furry,and Bi Pride] on Facebook
**[https://www.facebook.com/groups/bi.furry.pride/ Bi-Sexual Furry Pride] on Facebook
**[https://www.facebook.com/pages/Furry-and-Bi-Problem/342236029135317?fref=ts ''Furry and Bi. Problem?''] on Facebook

*'''Homosexual'''
**[https://www.facebook.com/TheOfficialGayFurs?ref=ts&fref=ts GAY Furry Pride] on Facebook
**[https://www.facebook.com/LGTBfurries?ref=ts&fref=ts Gay Furry Pride] on Facebook
**[https://www.facebook.com/pages/Furry-Lesbians/206023332741723?ref=ts&fref=ts Furry Lesbians] on Facebook
**[https://www.facebook.com/groups/169610063079912/?ref=ts&fref=ts Lesbian Furry Hotel] on Facebook
**[http://gayfurries.livejournal.com GayFurries] on Livejournal
**[http://lesbian-furs.livejournal.com Lesbian Furs] on Livejournal

{{net-stub}}

[[Category:Sociology]]

American conservatism

2024-02-26T18:21:58Z

Lumin City: This article has been entirely written by Spirou since it's creation on May 2022, and I would like to see more editors.

{{Controversial}}
{{NPOV}}

[[File:GOPLogo.svg.png|right|250px|thumb|Logo of the main conservative American party (the [[W:GOP|GOP]], or ''Grand Old Party'').]]
'''American conservatism''' is a [[W:Political philosophy|political]] and [[W:social philosophy|social philosophy]].

== Principles ==
[[File:Conservatisnvsfurry.png.webp|right|thumb|250px|Stew Peters laying down the blame of the Buffalo massacre on furries]]
[[File:KandissTaylorvsFurries 11.webp|right|thumb|250px|Kandiss Taylor's Twitter post about furries (#11)]]
[[File:FurscienceReurtersFactCheck.png|right|thumb|250px|[[W:Reuters|Reuters news]] and [[Furscience]] fact checks extremist conservative propaganda]]
[[File:Chicago City Wire and Furries.jpeg|right|thumb|250px|American conservative [[W:Dan Proft|Dan Proft]]'s fake newspaper/tabloid, the '''''Chicago City Wire''''', and furries in local Chicago schools]]
Conservatism characteristically prioritizes [[W:Culture of the United States|American traditions]], [[W:Republicanism in the United States|republicanism]], [[W:classical liberalism|classical liberalism]], and limited [[W:Federal government of the United States|federal]] governmental power in relation to the states, referred to more simply as "[[W:limited government|limited government]]" and "[[W:states' rights|states' rights]]". [[W:Media bias in the United States#Conservative|Conservative]] and [[W:Christian media|Christian media]] organizations along with [[W:List of American conservatives|American conservative figures]] are influential, and American conservatism is [[W:Two-party system#United States|one of the majority political ideologies]] within the [[W:Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]].

On social issues, American conservatism typically supports [[W:Christian ethics|Christian values]], [[W:moral absolutism|moral absolutism]], [[W:Family values|traditional family values]], and [[W:individualism|individualism]], while [[W:United States anti-abortion movement|opposing abortion]] and [[W:Same-sex marriage|same-sex marriage]].

On economic issues it is generally pro-[[W:capitalism|capitalism]] and pro-business while opposing [[W:trade union|trade unions]]. On national issues it often advocates a strong [[W:national defense|national defense]], [[W:Right to keep and bear arms in the United States|gun rights]], [[W:free trade|free trade]], and a defense of [[W:Western culture|Western culture]] from perceived threats posed by [[W:Communism|communism]] and [[W:moral relativism|moral relativism]].

Conservatives are substantially more likely than moderates and liberals to distrust science, particularly [[W:Medicine|medical science]], [[W:Climatology|climate science]], and [[W:evolution|evolution]] (on this last one defering to [[W:Creationism|Creationism]]).

== History ==

Although conservatism has much older roots in American history, the modern movement began to gel in the mid–1930s, when intellectuals and politicians collaborated with businessmen to oppose the liberalism of the [[W:New Deal|New Deal]], led by President [[W:Franklin D. Roosevelt|Franklin D. Roosevelt]], newly energized labor unions and big-city Democratic machines. After World War II, that [[W:Conservative coalition|coalition]] gained strength from new philosophers and writers who developed an intellectual rationale for '''conservatism''', further ratified by [[W:"Richard Nixon|Richard Nixon]]'s 1968 United States presidential election win, the [[W:Vietnam War|Vietnam War]] loss, and [[W:Ronald Reagan|President Ronald Reagan]] rejuvenation of the conservative Republican ideology, with tax cuts, greatly increased [[W:Military budget of the United States|defense spending]], [[W:deregulation|deregulation]], a policy of [[W:Reagan Doctrine|rolling back communism]], a greatly strengthened military and appeals to [[W:Family values|family values]] and conservative [[W:Judeo-Christian morality|Judeo-Christian morality]] (also known as the [[W:Reagan Era|Reagan Era]]).

== Americam conservatism and furry ==
=== The fandom ===

Based on studies/surveys taken online or at [[furry convention]]s,{{cn}} plus personal confirmation of their political leanings, there is a well documented contingency of '''conservative furries''' within the [[furry fandom]] itself, which includes some notable people such as [[Scott Ruggels]], [[Ralph Hayes, Jr.]], [[Grubbs Grizzly]], [[Alex Spastic]], [[Cigarskunk]], etc.

=== Mainstream ===

Although mainstream US conservatism and the [[fandom]] have had, at most, no direct interactions in the past, most of it has been satirical and/or comical in nature (see: [[The Rush Limbaugh Show]]), but at the beginning of 2022, some conservatives [[W:Parents' rights movement|parental rights advocates]] started to target [[furries]] in general based on the unfounded allegations that [[W:American school system|American school]]'s educators were giving special treatment to [[furry]] students, which conservative viewed as further proof on indoctrination of the [[W:political left|political left]] on their children.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWIFbhlr9zc ''EVSC talks furries, critical race theory in new video''] article video on [[YouTube]]. Retrieved September 22, 2022.</ref>

Even though all allegations were dismissed by these school principals, the "claims" continued on in the first half of 2022, getting more ridiculous by the post:
{{q|''Cafeteria tables are being lowered in certain @RoundRockISD middle and high schools to allow 'furries' to more easily eat without utensils or their hands (ie, like a [[dog]] eats from a bowl)''. Post by Michelle Evans}}
...To the point that some extremist conservative influencers, commentators, and politicians<ref>[https://twitter.com/kandisstaylor/status/1506603753008472064 ''The furry days are over when I'm governor. Public school is for academics not fairy tales.''] post by [[W:Kandiss Taylor|Kandiss Taylor]] on [[W:Twitter|Twitter]], Retrieved May 19.</ref> were blaming furries on all the ills of society,<ref>[https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2022/05/furries-republicans-lgbtq-midterms-schools.html ''Fur-mongering. Fake news about children "identifying" as animals is the latest stunt being pushed by so-called parental rights advocates.''] article on [[W:Slate (magazine)|Slate]]. Retrieved May 19, 2022.</ref> such as holding them accountable for the [[W:2022_Buffalo_shooting|2022 Buffalo supermarket shooting]]:<ref> [https://www.wonkette.com/furries-to-blame-for-buffalo-shooting-say-stew-peters-and-kandiss-taylor ''Furries To Blame For Buffalo Shooting, Say Stew Peters And Kandiss Taylor''] article on [[W:Wonkette|Wonkette]]. Retrieved May 19, 2022.</ref>
{{q|''The [[W:Federal government of the United States|Feds]] knew about the NY shooter, who was a mentally-disturbed 'furry', and they let it happen. They WANTED it to happen''. - post by conservative political commentator Stew Peters}}
{{q|''The gun didn't do it. A "[[W:White supremacy|white supremacist]]" didn't do it. A sick and demented furry did it. When Kandiss Taylor is elected governor, [[W:Georgia (U.S. state)|GA]] will be furry-free''. - post by conservative political commentator Stew Peters}}
{{q|''It turns out that the Buffalo shooter yesterday was a furry. In my list of [[W:Executive order|executive orders]], I explicitly addressed and received blowback for tackling the perversions of the furry culture. Twisting the minds of [[W:Generation Z|Generation Z]] MUST END!'' - post by former candidate for the [[W:Governor (United States)|Governorship]] of [[W:Georgia|Georgia]], Kandiss Taylor}}

=== Far-Right ===

American extremist conservative Republican and pastor [[W:Mark Burns (pastor)|Mark Burns]] (who was running for the 2022 Congress in South Carolina but lost), had a more extreme solution towards [[W:2SLGBTQIA+|2SLGBTQIA+]] youth supporters, parents, and (furry-loving) teachers:

After terminating (and jailing) Senators [[W:Mitch McConnell|Mitch McConnell]] and [[W:Lindsey Graham|Lindsey Graham]], the supporting parents of 2SLGBTQIA+ youths, as well as:
{{q|Any teacher that is teaching [[W:LGBT|LGBT]], [[W:transgenderism|transgenderism]], '''furries''', the groomers, any sexual orientation communication in the school system should be immediately terminated but [teachers should also] be held (in prison) for abusing young children.}}

He would then bring back the [[W:House Un-American Activities Committee|House Un-American Activities Committee]] ('''HCUA''', popularly known as the '''House Un-American Activities Committee''' ['''HUAC''']), and prosecute any the people above mentioned because:
{{q|''We need to hold people for treason,'' (...) ''and start executing people who are found guilty for their treasonous acts against the [[W:Constitution of the United States|Constitution of the United States of America]], just like they did back in 1776''.<ref>[https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2022/06/maga-congressional-candidate-promises-start-executing-people-support-lgbtq-youth/ ''MAGA Congressional candidate promises to "start executing people" who support LGBTQ youth''] article on [[W:LGBTQ Nation|LGBTQ Nation]]. Retrieved July 2, 2022.</ref>}}

== References ==
<REFERENCES/>

== See also ==

* [[W:American conservatism|American conservatism]] on [[Wikipedia]]
* [[W:Republican Party (United States)|US Republican Party (GOP)]] on Wikipedia
* [[W:Litter boxes in schools hoax|Litter boxes in US schools hoax]] on Wikipedia
* [[AltFurry]]
* [[Burned Furs]]
* [[Furry Raiders]]
* [[Furrygate: The Furrying]]
* [[Improved Anthropomorphics]]
* [[The Legion of the Headless Unicorn]]

=== Bills ===

* [[SB943‎]] ('''Oklahoma Senate Bill 943''' [2023])
* [[OK HB3084]] ('''Oklahoma House Bill 3084''' [2024])

=== Media ===

* [[Jesse Watters Primetime]]
* [[The Rush Limbaugh Show]]
* [[The Joe Rogan Experience]]

==External links==

* [http://www.heritage.org/research/lecture/the-origins-of-the-modern-american-conservative-movement ''The Origins of the Modern American Conservative Movement''] by the [[W:The Heritage Foundation|The Heritage Foundation]].
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20100410121117/http://photo.newsweek.com/2010/4/conservative-reactionary-movements.html ''A History of Conservative Movements''] article by [[W:Newsweek|Newsweek]]

=== Media ===

* [https://coloradotimesrecorder.com/2022/08/demons-furries-and-transgender-people-focus-of-co-springs-candidate/48436/ ''Demons, Furries, and Transgender People Focus of CO Springs Candidate''] article on the [https://coloradotimesrecorder.com/ Colorado Times Recorder]
* [https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/education/2022/09/01/salem-keizer-school-fake-sprague-claim-litter-box-restroom-student-identify-cat-furries-trans-snopes/65466253007/ ''Did Salem-Keizer allow a student who identifies as a cat to bring a litter box to school?''] article on the [https://www.statesmanjournal.com/ Statesman Journal]
* [https://www.thedailybeast.com/furry-panic-is-the-latest-dumb-gop-attack-on-public-schools ''Furry Panic Is the Latest Dumb GOP Attack on Public Schools''] article on [[W:The Daily Beast|The Daily Beast]]
* [https://www.salon.com/2022/02/03/fear-of-furries-in-schools-grips-conservative-parents-fooled-by-absurd-facebook-rumors_partner/ ''Fear of "furries" in schools grips conservative parents fooled by absurd Facebook rumors''] article on [[W:Salon Magazine|Salon]]
* [https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/23/us/politics/michigan-litter-box-school.html ''Litter Boxes for Students Who Identify as Furries? Not So, Says School Official''] article on [[W:The New York Times|The New York Times]]
* [https://www.texasmonthly.com/news-politics/texas-gop-candidate-furries-schools/ ''A Texas GOP Candidate's New Claim: School Cafeteria Tables Are Being Lowered for "Furries"''] article on the [https://www.texasmonthly.com/ Texas Monthly]
* [https://www.reuters.com/article/factcheck-furries-school/fact-check-no-evidence-that-u-s-schoolchildren-are-self-identifying-as-animals-and-disrupting-classrooms-idUSL1N2YN1O2?scrolltoken=7V0gaOl3DlhMTWpsTjkk43SxEHNjaz5aqxBUvWn-Bk9j_f7I77_IgUU5uGAeQi9Homf3IISDKntZOJ7Y9F8jatILBujv9ARgASntQSWVH5jPcqvddJ1sowNPO-XvNObX9nJipjUEUETTDcCTLhwtAo_PgNxHPb35v3wCZbUIVBdUSJBseduBR3hYHoxprGYKobjTHlm6zOFPA46MRXuntmtvFw.eyJraWQiOiIyIn0 ''Fact Check-No evidence that U.S. schoolchildren are self-identifying as animals and disrupting classrooms''] article on [[W:Reuters|Reuters]]
* [https://dogpatch.press/2022/01/31/urban-legend-litter-boxes/ ''Origins of an urban legend: "litter boxes for furries" joke gets revived for moral panic''] article on [[Dogpatch Press]]
* [https://dogpatch.press/2022/01/31/urban-legend-litter-boxes/ ''"Furries in Schools" Hoax Map documents a moral panic to attack LGBT people by proxy.''] article on Dogpatch Press
* [https://www.recordcourier.com/news/2022/sep/11/school-officials-deny-students-attending-class-dog/ ''School officials deny students attending class in dog and cat costumes''] article on [https://www.recordcourier.com/ The Record Courier]
* [https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2022/09/right-wing-preacher-says-furry-teacher-uses-litter-box-front-class/ ''Right-wing preacher says a "furry" teacher uses a litter box in front of his class''] article on the [https://www.lgbtqnation.com/ LGBTQ Nation]
* [https://www.wmicentral.com/news/latest_news/furries-threatened-with-death-in-sl/article_f29c2102-dec2-533e-ada0-157c4c79206b.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share ''"Furries" threatened with death in SL''] article on the [https://www.wmicentral.com/ White Mountain Independent]
* [https://www.courierpress.com/story/news/local/2022/09/20/evsc-addresses-rumors-of-furries-and-litter-boxes-in-local-schools/69506009007/ ''Superintendent: No, EVSC doesn't provide litter boxes for students who identify as cats''] article on the [https://www.courierpress.com/ Courier & Press]
* [https://www.snopes.com/news/2023/01/30/how-furries-got-swept-up-in-anti-trans-litter-box-rumors/ ''How Furries Got Swept Up in Anti-Trans 'Litter Box' Rumors''] article on [[W:Snopes|Snopes]]
* [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12223999/Inside-world-furries-cat-pupils-dressing-whiskers-tails-school.html ''Inside the world of the Furries: Why is the number of children claiming they're cats on the rise - and why are teachers indulging the new subculture to the alarm of parents?''] article on the [[W:Daily Mail|Daily Mail]] (UK)

=== Media (critical) ===

* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikY1jFqvrBU ''Gutfeld: Furries push for LGBTQ+ acceptance''] video article on [[W:Fox News|Fox News]]' [[YouTube]]

[[Category:Terms]]

User:Lumin City

2024-02-26T16:38:40Z

Lumin City: /* Gallery */ Linked feve.

{{Personal-article|Lumin City}}

{{Infobox
|name = YouTuber
|bodystyle =
|title = Lumin City
|titlestyle =
|image = [[File:Lumin_ANE2024_Fursuit_Games.jpg|200px]]
|imagestyle =
|caption = Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin at Anthro New England 2024.
|captionstyle =
|headerstyle = background:#ccf;
|labelstyle = background:#ddf;
|datastyle =

|header4 = Personal information
|label4 = Nationality
|data4 = American
|label5 = Other names
|data5 = Lumin, Illumination City
|label6 = Hobbies
|data6 = [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
|label7 = Species
|data7 = [[Siberian Husky]]

|header8 = YouTube information
|label9 = Channel
|data9 = [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City]
|header6 =
|label10 = Years active
|data10 = 2021-present
|label11 = Genres
|data11 = [[Wikipedia:News|News]], [[Wikipedia:Opinion_piece|commentary]]
|label12 = Subscribers
|data12 = 1.47 thousand<ref name="YouTube About">[https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity/about "About Lumin City"] [[YouTube]].</ref>
|label13 = Total views
|data13 = 218 thousand<ref name="YouTube About"/>
}}

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
| {{User YouTube}}
|-
| {{User LGBT}}
|}
</div>

Welcome to my user page! I'm an [[Wikipedia:Asian_Americans|Asian-American]] [[Wikipedia:Neurodiversity|neurodivergent]] [[Transgender|non-binary]] [[fursuiter]], [[Youtuber]], and online personality from the [[Wikipedia:New_York_metropolitan_area|New York metro area]]. I'm best known for my informative and highly edited videos discussing the Fandom through a progressive lens. Don't be afraid to contact me!

== Fandom Involvement ==
I joined the Fandom in early 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, having previously watched Furry videos on the internet. I attended my first [[furmeet]] in May 2021, and my first [[furry convention]] [[Furrydelphia]] in August. I've attended numerous furmeets and furry conventions since.

=== YouTube Career ===
My YouTube channel is dedicated to improving the fandom by documenting and archiving Furry history through engaging videos. It has a progressive lean, discussing including but not limited to economic equality, education, and social justice. I make videos on Furries, Furry conventions, and the Fandom's interactions with others on the internet, both good and bad. I also discuss those trying to take advantage of the Fandom, including but not limited to non-Furry content creators disrespecting the Fandom, including harassing attendees at fur cons to get views and news platforms using the Fandom to push bigoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

=== Joining WikiFur ===
While I had edited for WikiFur since December 17th, 2022, it was infrequent. Following [[Mark Merlino]]'s passing from stage IV liver cancer<ref>[https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-true-fandom-original "Help a True Fandom Original."] post by [[Rodney Stansfield]] on [[W:GoFundMe|GoFundMe]]. Retrieved February 9, 2024.</ref> on February 20th,<ref>[https://twitter.com/Skiltaire_Party/status/1759882242137149928 "He's gone."] post on [[The Prancing Skiltaire]]'s [[Twitter]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> watching the fandom collectively mourn his loss, including me, I started reading his Wikifur article to look back at his history. I had mentioned ConFurence, the first furry convention co-founded by Merlino and his partner, Rod O'Riley in a YouTube video on November 9th, 2021. discussing the "real" problem with furry conventions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLbKJqoNclw "The REAL Problem With Furry Conventions (BLFC 2021)"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> However, the more I looked at his life I realized his influence went beyond ConFurence, helping found not only the Furry Fandom but also popularizing the Anime fandom.

His dedication to archiving and teaching Furry history later in life particularly struck a chord with me, as it helped in producing numerous YouTube videos, including using ConFurence to discuss how furry conventions always had issues. As a result, I've decided to volunteer my time in editing Wikifur articles to serve the next generation of Furries to be able to learn about the Fandom, but also fight back against far-right anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes and conspiracies against the Fandom. While my main focus will be on YouTube due to having a wider reach, I'll volunteer any spare time to Wikifur whenever articles need to be improved.

=== Fursona ===
My [[fursona]] is a lime [[Siberian Husky]] named Lumin. My reference sheet was drawn by [[Pulex]] and shared on meow.social, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023.<ref>[https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525 "here's a reference sheet, drawn by pulexart.com!"] post on Lumin City's meow.social [[Mastodon]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> My profile picture featuring my fursona was drawn by the [[Furry artist]] [[feve]] on [[FurAffinity]] on January 30th.<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/"] post on feve's [[FurAffinity]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
My [[Fursuit]], Lumin was made by [[Shellsews]]. A video unboxing and discussing my journey to having it made was uploaded to my YouTube channel on January 6th, 2024.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ag9JucHqE "Unboxing The Best Worst Fursuit & Suiting Up"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published January 6, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> Lumin was first revealed at [[Anthro New England 2024]].

=== Convention Attendance ===
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|}
</div>

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2023
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023

== Honoring Mark Merlino ==

=== How Joe Strike Was My Mark Merlino ===
Despite having never personally met Merlino, I had met [[Joe Strike]], another early Furry who wrote two books on the fandom,<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2023/11/13/book-review-furry-planet/ "Book review – Furry Planet: A World Gone Wild is an enjoyable tour of furries around the world."] by [[Grubbs Grizzly]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published November 13, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> and was born two years earlier than Merlino. I first met him in June 2021 at an NYC movie theater furmeet watching Peter Rabbit 2. We then numerous times at various meetups and furry conventions. He started a monthly Furry and Brony meetup after being inspired by London Furs' monthly meetups that saw over a hundred Furries,<ref>[https://www.meetup.com/nyc-furries/events/295007511/ "MONTHLY FURRY/BRONY MEET-UP!"] post by Joe Strike on meetup.com. Retrieved February 24, 2024. "The London Furs have been meeting every month for years: 100+ furries gather at a friendly bar/restaurant with outdoor space to eat, drink and even suit up—and there’s no reason we New Yorkers [sic] furries and bronies can’t do the same!"</ref> which I attended several times. Our most recent encounter was at Anthro New England 2024 when I showed him my Fursuit. Merlino's passing was a reminder to appreciate the time I left with him, as it'll likely only be a few years longer.

=== The Importance of Legacy ===
'''Trigger Warning:''' This section contains detailed discussions about child abuse, mental illness, and suicide that may be distressing for some readers. I understand these topics can be difficult. If you need support, please reach out to the 988 hotline (The United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide your local suicide hotline,] or someone you trust. Additional resources, including mental health organizations, are also available for support.
<br><br/>
I was reminded of [[Dogbomb]]'s passing from [[Wikipedia:ALS|ALS]] back in 2019,<ref>[https://twitter.com/dogbomb1/status/1114286592737210368 "Dogbomb has left the building. / I love all y’all!"] post by Dogbomb on [[Twitter]]. Published April 5, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> two years before I joined the fandom, and [[Wikipedia:MatPat|MatPat]]'s YouTube video on July 25th, 2018 honoring Ronnie, who sadly ended his life through suicide.<ref name="Losing The Battle">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWTEE4SkCLY "Losing the Battle"] video on [[Wikipedia:The Game Theorists|The Game Theorists]] YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> I empathized with Dogbomb's struggle with ALS, and MatPat's grieving of Ronnie, as I had struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts for years before and while in the Fandom.

{{q|Ronnie, in all the years that I knew him, dealt with demons that only he could understand. Scars left by a childhood that he kept under a lock and key. ... What I can say is that he did his best to move on; to strike out on his own, to move beyond the trauma of his past. To take his mental health into his own hands, and take his recovery seriously, one step at a time, every single day.}}

I also related to MatPat's description of Ronnie's personality, resulting in his actions being perceived as malicious despite his good intentions.

{{q|That past also gave him a personality that was probably best described as... an acquired taste. He was incredibly sharp and incredibly witty, but he also had this ability to cut through a person's facade in a way that was sometimes hilarious and sometimes a bit off-putting. ... it was that same personality that, understandably, sometimes got him into trouble with people who weren't familiar with that part of him, who didn't understand that's the way he processed the world, that- that was the way he dealt with social situations, that he was a person with dark periods who had a tendency to sometimes lash out with anger. ... It wasn't an easy side to deal with, but that wasn't Ronnie. Ronnie wasn't an arrogant person, he was just socially unsure. He was unaware of how his behaviors would be perceived by others.}}

MatPat apologized for those Ronnie had hurt and didn't see "Ronnie as he really was", who hugged MatPat after their last Gamelab episode together and took pride in obscure internet trivia. I similarly had experiences in private chats, at furmeets and Furry conventions where I assisted other Furries, lent an ear to those who needed help, and gave hugs in Fursuit.

{{q|Those moments were the true Ronnie. When he was unburdened by his past. When sunlight would peek through all of the clouds. It was take a lot of patience to get there, and a lot of long conversations and phone calls. But when he got there, it was great because you knew that it was honest. And it was genuine. It was a person who was free.
}}

{{q|Ronnie told me once in the early days of the channel's history that it was his goal for his animations to be recognized and for him to be influential as an artist...}}

MatPat wanted to tell Ronnie that he achieved his goal of becoming an influential artist, making the "Game Theory style" and inspired many of The Game Theorist's editors. MatPat hoped Ronnie knew he achieved his goal, and regretted not telling him how proud he was of him, how he evolved as an artist with his elaborate animations, and created his voice, not only impacting the channel but the internet as a whole.

{{q|We're all really busy, every hour of every day around the clock. But take the opportunity to tell people what you think. How much you appreciate them, how much you love them, how proud you are of them. Even if that person is really weird in the way that they take their compliments like Ronnie often was. It'll stick. It'll land. And that compliment will really mean a lot."}}

Matpat hoped his video on Ronnie's loss would "start to break down the stigmas around talking about mental health, social anxiety, and suicide."

{{q|First, and most importantly, remember, you are never alone. Never. Even if it feels like you have no one to talk to. Even if you're talking to someone and it feels like they can't say the right thing, it's okay. It's about you not having to carry the burden yourself. It's about you NOT having to go through this alone. Keep talking, keep conversations open, because it is the single most important thing in these sorts of situations. It's about you being able to give voice to what's wrong, to what you can only experience without being judged.}}

MatPat had done fan meetups at conventions like [[Wikipedia:VidCon|VidCon]], meeting fans facing similar struggles and being honored he was the reason they continued living.

{{q|a lot of you who watch this channel go through these struggles. That you're dealing with social anxiety, with suicidal thoughts, with depression, and what I often hear from you in those stories is that this channel, this community, had helped bring you through the darkest of times, the lowest of lows. A breakup, a loss of a family member, whatever dark thoughts might be circulating through your head and that is the biggest honor for me to hear, that me nerding out in my closet somehow gave you hope to continue on, to know that you weren't alone, that your mind processes things differently and that's okay, and that other people are out there just like you. But I also recognize that this is a battle that you have to fight every day, and it's a battle that you have to WIN every single day. Ronnie fought that battle for a lot of days, and he won for a lot of days. But it only takes one loss...}}

MatPat asks viewers to share their stories with those willing to listen to them. Despite social media getting increasingly polarized, it still can unite those and give people who feel like no one will listen to them some that will. He also asks those to reach out in real life, providing various services. Most importantly though, MatPat reminds viewers that they're important, valued, and loved, even if they don't realize it, and to honor Ronnie's memory by living and talking openly and honestly with others.

{{q|don't be ashamed to have your voice be heard, to share your story out there with people who are ready and EAGER to listen to it. ... at a time when social video and social media are constantly tearing each other apart, let's remember that it has positive to offer, too. That it can unite people. That it can give people who feel like they have no one to listen to them. Someone who is there; to listen. But, also reach out in real life. There are countless numbers of services out there available to help you: Suicide hotlines, websites, therapists, people who are trained to help. ... most importantly of all, remember that you are important. That you are valued and that you are LOVED by more people than you could ever possibly think of. ... Honor his memory by living, most importantly of all, and talking openly and honestly with each other. That's most important.}}

On October 8th, 2018, seven months after DogBomb's initial [[FurAffinity]] revealing he had ALS,<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/journal/8648748/ "ALS Can Kiss My Fuzzy Butt"] - Fur Affinity journal by Dogbomb. Dated March 8, 2018. Retrieved March 22, 2019.</ref> [[Kijani Lion]] wrote about him for [[Dogpatch Press]]. When asked what he what is best piece of advice was Dogbomb's response was one I fully agreed with.

{{q|Bad stuff happens, it just does, and that’s okay, ... The only thing we can truly control are our own actions and reactions. If you meet challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, you’ve just beaten the universe at its own game.<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2018/10/08/last-mutt-standing-dogbomb "'Last Mutt Standing': Dogbomb inspires the world through his courageous battle against ALS"] by [[Kijani Lion]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published October 8, 2018. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>}}

=== Moving Forward ===

Merlino's passing has reminded me that the fandom wouldn't exist in the way it is without him, being inclusive and accepting of those outcasted by society, especially those LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. It reaffirmed my belief that beyond appreciating anthropomorphic animals, this is what the fandom is truly about. With the rise in far-right anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, especially toward the fandom, it's now more important than ever for us to be united against such bigotry, instead of continuing to tear ourselves apart.

I hope to continue Merlino's legacy by introducing new members to the fandom through my work, archiving Furry history, and keep fighting the stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, especially the transgender community. I want to inspire the next generation of Furries for the next few decades and leave my mark on the fandom that is just as impactful as Merlino's. The fandom has been around for almost four decades, and I hope we can continue it for another four and beyond.

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Fursona Pictures" widths="250px" heights="250px">
File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png|Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin drawn by [[Pulex]].
File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png|Lumin City's profile picture drawn by [[feve]].
</gallery>

== To-Do List ==
* [[Zweitesich]]
** [https://www.dazeddigital.com/fashion/article/44690/1/furries-furry-community-designer-fursuit-costume-controversy-backlash-zweitesich Designer Fursuit Controversy]
* [[Midwest FurFest 2023]]
** [https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/wall-of-flippers-detects-flipper-zero-bluetooth-spam-attacks/ Flipper Zero Disruption]
** [https://www.pcgamer.com/fake-valve-prism-vr-headset-website-is-a-prank-based-on-an-extremely-specific-joke-from-the-2023-midwest-furfest-furry-convention/ Valve Prism Prank]
* [[Anthro New England 2024]]
**[https://twitter.com/PatrickSnowyote/status/1749842584199913903 Photo Restriction Controversy]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/user/LuminCity/fursuiting Lumin City] on [[FurTrack]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/index/character:lumin_(husky) Lumin City's Fursuit] on [[FurTrack]]

[[Category:Canid_species]]
[[Category:Canine_species]]
[[Category:Dog_characters]]
[[Category:Husky_characters]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:New Jersey]]
[[Category:New York]]
[[Category:New York City]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]
[[Category:United_States_of_America]]
[[Category:YouTubers]]

User:Lumin City

2024-02-26T16:37:06Z

Lumin City: Added a welcome line to the lead.

{{Personal-article|Lumin City}}

{{Infobox
|name = YouTuber
|bodystyle =
|title = Lumin City
|titlestyle =
|image = [[File:Lumin_ANE2024_Fursuit_Games.jpg|200px]]
|imagestyle =
|caption = Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin at Anthro New England 2024.
|captionstyle =
|headerstyle = background:#ccf;
|labelstyle = background:#ddf;
|datastyle =

|header4 = Personal information
|label4 = Nationality
|data4 = American
|label5 = Other names
|data5 = Lumin, Illumination City
|label6 = Hobbies
|data6 = [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
|label7 = Species
|data7 = [[Siberian Husky]]

|header8 = YouTube information
|label9 = Channel
|data9 = [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City]
|header6 =
|label10 = Years active
|data10 = 2021-present
|label11 = Genres
|data11 = [[Wikipedia:News|News]], [[Wikipedia:Opinion_piece|commentary]]
|label12 = Subscribers
|data12 = 1.47 thousand<ref name="YouTube About">[https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity/about "About Lumin City"] [[YouTube]].</ref>
|label13 = Total views
|data13 = 218 thousand<ref name="YouTube About"/>
}}

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
| {{User YouTube}}
|-
| {{User LGBT}}
|}
</div>

Welcome to my user page! I'm an [[Wikipedia:Asian_Americans|Asian-American]] [[Wikipedia:Neurodiversity|neurodivergent]] [[Transgender|non-binary]] [[fursuiter]], [[Youtuber]], and online personality from the [[Wikipedia:New_York_metropolitan_area|New York metro area]]. I'm best known for my informative and highly edited videos discussing the Fandom through a progressive lens. Don't be afraid to contact me!

== Fandom Involvement ==
I joined the Fandom in early 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, having previously watched Furry videos on the internet. I attended my first [[furmeet]] in May 2021, and my first [[furry convention]] [[Furrydelphia]] in August. I've attended numerous furmeets and furry conventions since.

=== YouTube Career ===
My YouTube channel is dedicated to improving the fandom by documenting and archiving Furry history through engaging videos. It has a progressive lean, discussing including but not limited to economic equality, education, and social justice. I make videos on Furries, Furry conventions, and the Fandom's interactions with others on the internet, both good and bad. I also discuss those trying to take advantage of the Fandom, including but not limited to non-Furry content creators disrespecting the Fandom, including harassing attendees at fur cons to get views and news platforms using the Fandom to push bigoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

=== Joining WikiFur ===
While I had edited for WikiFur since December 17th, 2022, it was infrequent. Following [[Mark Merlino]]'s passing from stage IV liver cancer<ref>[https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-true-fandom-original "Help a True Fandom Original."] post by [[Rodney Stansfield]] on [[W:GoFundMe|GoFundMe]]. Retrieved February 9, 2024.</ref> on February 20th,<ref>[https://twitter.com/Skiltaire_Party/status/1759882242137149928 "He's gone."] post on [[The Prancing Skiltaire]]'s [[Twitter]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> watching the fandom collectively mourn his loss, including me, I started reading his Wikifur article to look back at his history. I had mentioned ConFurence, the first furry convention co-founded by Merlino and his partner, Rod O'Riley in a YouTube video on November 9th, 2021. discussing the "real" problem with furry conventions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLbKJqoNclw "The REAL Problem With Furry Conventions (BLFC 2021)"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> However, the more I looked at his life I realized his influence went beyond ConFurence, helping found not only the Furry Fandom but also popularizing the Anime fandom.

His dedication to archiving and teaching Furry history later in life particularly struck a chord with me, as it helped in producing numerous YouTube videos, including using ConFurence to discuss how furry conventions always had issues. As a result, I've decided to volunteer my time in editing Wikifur articles to serve the next generation of Furries to be able to learn about the Fandom, but also fight back against far-right anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes and conspiracies against the Fandom. While my main focus will be on YouTube due to having a wider reach, I'll volunteer any spare time to Wikifur whenever articles need to be improved.

=== Fursona ===
My [[fursona]] is a lime [[Siberian Husky]] named Lumin. My reference sheet was drawn by [[Pulex]] and shared on meow.social, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023.<ref>[https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525 "here's a reference sheet, drawn by pulexart.com!"] post on Lumin City's meow.social [[Mastodon]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> My profile picture featuring my fursona was drawn by the [[Furry artist]] [[feve]] on [[FurAffinity]] on January 30th.<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/"] post on feve's [[FurAffinity]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
My [[Fursuit]], Lumin was made by [[Shellsews]]. A video unboxing and discussing my journey to having it made was uploaded to my YouTube channel on January 6th, 2024.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ag9JucHqE "Unboxing The Best Worst Fursuit & Suiting Up"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published January 6, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> Lumin was first revealed at [[Anthro New England 2024]].

=== Convention Attendance ===
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|}
</div>

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2023
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023

== Honoring Mark Merlino ==

=== How Joe Strike Was My Mark Merlino ===
Despite having never personally met Merlino, I had met [[Joe Strike]], another early Furry who wrote two books on the fandom,<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2023/11/13/book-review-furry-planet/ "Book review – Furry Planet: A World Gone Wild is an enjoyable tour of furries around the world."] by [[Grubbs Grizzly]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published November 13, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> and was born two years earlier than Merlino. I first met him in June 2021 at an NYC movie theater furmeet watching Peter Rabbit 2. We then numerous times at various meetups and furry conventions. He started a monthly Furry and Brony meetup after being inspired by London Furs' monthly meetups that saw over a hundred Furries,<ref>[https://www.meetup.com/nyc-furries/events/295007511/ "MONTHLY FURRY/BRONY MEET-UP!"] post by Joe Strike on meetup.com. Retrieved February 24, 2024. "The London Furs have been meeting every month for years: 100+ furries gather at a friendly bar/restaurant with outdoor space to eat, drink and even suit up—and there’s no reason we New Yorkers [sic] furries and bronies can’t do the same!"</ref> which I attended several times. Our most recent encounter was at Anthro New England 2024 when I showed him my Fursuit. Merlino's passing was a reminder to appreciate the time I left with him, as it'll likely only be a few years longer.

=== The Importance of Legacy ===
'''Trigger Warning:''' This section contains detailed discussions about child abuse, mental illness, and suicide that may be distressing for some readers. I understand these topics can be difficult. If you need support, please reach out to the 988 hotline (The United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide your local suicide hotline,] or someone you trust. Additional resources, including mental health organizations, are also available for support.
<br><br/>
I was reminded of [[Dogbomb]]'s passing from [[Wikipedia:ALS|ALS]] back in 2019,<ref>[https://twitter.com/dogbomb1/status/1114286592737210368 "Dogbomb has left the building. / I love all y’all!"] post by Dogbomb on [[Twitter]]. Published April 5, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> two years before I joined the fandom, and [[Wikipedia:MatPat|MatPat]]'s YouTube video on July 25th, 2018 honoring Ronnie, who sadly ended his life through suicide.<ref name="Losing The Battle">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWTEE4SkCLY "Losing the Battle"] video on [[Wikipedia:The Game Theorists|The Game Theorists]] YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> I empathized with Dogbomb's struggle with ALS, and MatPat's grieving of Ronnie, as I had struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts for years before and while in the Fandom.

{{q|Ronnie, in all the years that I knew him, dealt with demons that only he could understand. Scars left by a childhood that he kept under a lock and key. ... What I can say is that he did his best to move on; to strike out on his own, to move beyond the trauma of his past. To take his mental health into his own hands, and take his recovery seriously, one step at a time, every single day.}}

I also related to MatPat's description of Ronnie's personality, resulting in his actions being perceived as malicious despite his good intentions.

{{q|That past also gave him a personality that was probably best described as... an acquired taste. He was incredibly sharp and incredibly witty, but he also had this ability to cut through a person's facade in a way that was sometimes hilarious and sometimes a bit off-putting. ... it was that same personality that, understandably, sometimes got him into trouble with people who weren't familiar with that part of him, who didn't understand that's the way he processed the world, that- that was the way he dealt with social situations, that he was a person with dark periods who had a tendency to sometimes lash out with anger. ... It wasn't an easy side to deal with, but that wasn't Ronnie. Ronnie wasn't an arrogant person, he was just socially unsure. He was unaware of how his behaviors would be perceived by others.}}

MatPat apologized for those Ronnie had hurt and didn't see "Ronnie as he really was", who hugged MatPat after their last Gamelab episode together and took pride in obscure internet trivia. I similarly had experiences in private chats, at furmeets and Furry conventions where I assisted other Furries, lent an ear to those who needed help, and gave hugs in Fursuit.

{{q|Those moments were the true Ronnie. When he was unburdened by his past. When sunlight would peek through all of the clouds. It was take a lot of patience to get there, and a lot of long conversations and phone calls. But when he got there, it was great because you knew that it was honest. And it was genuine. It was a person who was free.
}}

{{q|Ronnie told me once in the early days of the channel's history that it was his goal for his animations to be recognized and for him to be influential as an artist...}}

MatPat wanted to tell Ronnie that he achieved his goal of becoming an influential artist, making the "Game Theory style" and inspired many of The Game Theorist's editors. MatPat hoped Ronnie knew he achieved his goal, and regretted not telling him how proud he was of him, how he evolved as an artist with his elaborate animations, and created his voice, not only impacting the channel but the internet as a whole.

{{q|We're all really busy, every hour of every day around the clock. But take the opportunity to tell people what you think. How much you appreciate them, how much you love them, how proud you are of them. Even if that person is really weird in the way that they take their compliments like Ronnie often was. It'll stick. It'll land. And that compliment will really mean a lot."}}

Matpat hoped his video on Ronnie's loss would "start to break down the stigmas around talking about mental health, social anxiety, and suicide."

{{q|First, and most importantly, remember, you are never alone. Never. Even if it feels like you have no one to talk to. Even if you're talking to someone and it feels like they can't say the right thing, it's okay. It's about you not having to carry the burden yourself. It's about you NOT having to go through this alone. Keep talking, keep conversations open, because it is the single most important thing in these sorts of situations. It's about you being able to give voice to what's wrong, to what you can only experience without being judged.}}

MatPat had done fan meetups at conventions like [[Wikipedia:VidCon|VidCon]], meeting fans facing similar struggles and being honored he was the reason they continued living.

{{q|a lot of you who watch this channel go through these struggles. That you're dealing with social anxiety, with suicidal thoughts, with depression, and what I often hear from you in those stories is that this channel, this community, had helped bring you through the darkest of times, the lowest of lows. A breakup, a loss of a family member, whatever dark thoughts might be circulating through your head and that is the biggest honor for me to hear, that me nerding out in my closet somehow gave you hope to continue on, to know that you weren't alone, that your mind processes things differently and that's okay, and that other people are out there just like you. But I also recognize that this is a battle that you have to fight every day, and it's a battle that you have to WIN every single day. Ronnie fought that battle for a lot of days, and he won for a lot of days. But it only takes one loss...}}

MatPat asks viewers to share their stories with those willing to listen to them. Despite social media getting increasingly polarized, it still can unite those and give people who feel like no one will listen to them some that will. He also asks those to reach out in real life, providing various services. Most importantly though, MatPat reminds viewers that they're important, valued, and loved, even if they don't realize it, and to honor Ronnie's memory by living and talking openly and honestly with others.

{{q|don't be ashamed to have your voice be heard, to share your story out there with people who are ready and EAGER to listen to it. ... at a time when social video and social media are constantly tearing each other apart, let's remember that it has positive to offer, too. That it can unite people. That it can give people who feel like they have no one to listen to them. Someone who is there; to listen. But, also reach out in real life. There are countless numbers of services out there available to help you: Suicide hotlines, websites, therapists, people who are trained to help. ... most importantly of all, remember that you are important. That you are valued and that you are LOVED by more people than you could ever possibly think of. ... Honor his memory by living, most importantly of all, and talking openly and honestly with each other. That's most important.}}

On October 8th, 2018, seven months after DogBomb's initial [[FurAffinity]] revealing he had ALS,<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/journal/8648748/ "ALS Can Kiss My Fuzzy Butt"] - Fur Affinity journal by Dogbomb. Dated March 8, 2018. Retrieved March 22, 2019.</ref> [[Kijani Lion]] wrote about him for [[Dogpatch Press]]. When asked what he what is best piece of advice was Dogbomb's response was one I fully agreed with.

{{q|Bad stuff happens, it just does, and that’s okay, ... The only thing we can truly control are our own actions and reactions. If you meet challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, you’ve just beaten the universe at its own game.<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2018/10/08/last-mutt-standing-dogbomb "'Last Mutt Standing': Dogbomb inspires the world through his courageous battle against ALS"] by [[Kijani Lion]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published October 8, 2018. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>}}

=== Moving Forward ===

Merlino's passing has reminded me that the fandom wouldn't exist in the way it is without him, being inclusive and accepting of those outcasted by society, especially those LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. It reaffirmed my belief that beyond appreciating anthropomorphic animals, this is what the fandom is truly about. With the rise in far-right anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, especially toward the fandom, it's now more important than ever for us to be united against such bigotry, instead of continuing to tear ourselves apart.

I hope to continue Merlino's legacy by introducing new members to the fandom through my work, archiving Furry history, and keep fighting the stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, especially the transgender community. I want to inspire the next generation of Furries for the next few decades and leave my mark on the fandom that is just as impactful as Merlino's. The fandom has been around for almost four decades, and I hope we can continue it for another four and beyond.

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Fursona Pictures" widths="250px" heights="250px">
File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png|Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin drawn by [[Pulex]].
File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png|Lumin City's profile picture drawn by feve.
</gallery>

== To-Do List ==
* [[Zweitesich]]
** [https://www.dazeddigital.com/fashion/article/44690/1/furries-furry-community-designer-fursuit-costume-controversy-backlash-zweitesich Designer Fursuit Controversy]
* [[Midwest FurFest 2023]]
** [https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/wall-of-flippers-detects-flipper-zero-bluetooth-spam-attacks/ Flipper Zero Disruption]
** [https://www.pcgamer.com/fake-valve-prism-vr-headset-website-is-a-prank-based-on-an-extremely-specific-joke-from-the-2023-midwest-furfest-furry-convention/ Valve Prism Prank]
* [[Anthro New England 2024]]
**[https://twitter.com/PatrickSnowyote/status/1749842584199913903 Photo Restriction Controversy]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/user/LuminCity/fursuiting Lumin City] on [[FurTrack]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/index/character:lumin_(husky) Lumin City's Fursuit] on [[FurTrack]]

[[Category:Canid_species]]
[[Category:Canine_species]]
[[Category:Dog_characters]]
[[Category:Husky_characters]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:New Jersey]]
[[Category:New York]]
[[Category:New York City]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]
[[Category:United_States_of_America]]
[[Category:YouTubers]]

User:Lumin City

2024-02-26T16:36:25Z

Lumin City: /* To-Do List */ Added another article.

{{Personal-article|Lumin City}}

{{Infobox
|name = YouTuber
|bodystyle =
|title = Lumin City
|titlestyle =
|image = [[File:Lumin_ANE2024_Fursuit_Games.jpg|200px]]
|imagestyle =
|caption = Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin at Anthro New England 2024.
|captionstyle =
|headerstyle = background:#ccf;
|labelstyle = background:#ddf;
|datastyle =

|header4 = Personal information
|label4 = Nationality
|data4 = American
|label5 = Other names
|data5 = Lumin, Illumination City
|label6 = Hobbies
|data6 = [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
|label7 = Species
|data7 = [[Siberian Husky]]

|header8 = YouTube information
|label9 = Channel
|data9 = [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City]
|header6 =
|label10 = Years active
|data10 = 2021-present
|label11 = Genres
|data11 = [[Wikipedia:News|News]], [[Wikipedia:Opinion_piece|commentary]]
|label12 = Subscribers
|data12 = 1.47 thousand<ref name="YouTube About">[https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity/about "About Lumin City"] [[YouTube]].</ref>
|label13 = Total views
|data13 = 218 thousand<ref name="YouTube About"/>
}}

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
| {{User YouTube}}
|-
| {{User LGBT}}
|}
</div>

I'm an [[Wikipedia:Asian_Americans|Asian-American]] [[Wikipedia:Neurodiversity|neurodivergent]] [[Transgender|non-binary]] [[fursuiter]], [[Youtuber]], and online personality from the [[Wikipedia:New_York_metropolitan_area|New York metro area]]. I'm best known for my informative and highly edited videos discussing the Fandom through a progressive lens. Don't be afraid to contact me!

== Fandom Involvement ==
I joined the Fandom in early 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, having previously watched Furry videos on the internet. I attended my first [[furmeet]] in May 2021, and my first [[furry convention]] [[Furrydelphia]] in August. I've attended numerous furmeets and furry conventions since.

=== YouTube Career ===
My YouTube channel is dedicated to improving the fandom by documenting and archiving Furry history through engaging videos. It has a progressive lean, discussing including but not limited to economic equality, education, and social justice. I make videos on Furries, Furry conventions, and the Fandom's interactions with others on the internet, both good and bad. I also discuss those trying to take advantage of the Fandom, including but not limited to non-Furry content creators disrespecting the Fandom, including harassing attendees at fur cons to get views and news platforms using the Fandom to push bigoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

=== Joining WikiFur ===
While I had edited for WikiFur since December 17th, 2022, it was infrequent. Following [[Mark Merlino]]'s passing from stage IV liver cancer<ref>[https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-true-fandom-original "Help a True Fandom Original."] post by [[Rodney Stansfield]] on [[W:GoFundMe|GoFundMe]]. Retrieved February 9, 2024.</ref> on February 20th,<ref>[https://twitter.com/Skiltaire_Party/status/1759882242137149928 "He's gone."] post on [[The Prancing Skiltaire]]'s [[Twitter]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> watching the fandom collectively mourn his loss, including me, I started reading his Wikifur article to look back at his history. I had mentioned ConFurence, the first furry convention co-founded by Merlino and his partner, Rod O'Riley in a YouTube video on November 9th, 2021. discussing the "real" problem with furry conventions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLbKJqoNclw "The REAL Problem With Furry Conventions (BLFC 2021)"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> However, the more I looked at his life I realized his influence went beyond ConFurence, helping found not only the Furry Fandom but also popularizing the Anime fandom.

His dedication to archiving and teaching Furry history later in life particularly struck a chord with me, as it helped in producing numerous YouTube videos, including using ConFurence to discuss how furry conventions always had issues. As a result, I've decided to volunteer my time in editing Wikifur articles to serve the next generation of Furries to be able to learn about the Fandom, but also fight back against far-right anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes and conspiracies against the Fandom. While my main focus will be on YouTube due to having a wider reach, I'll volunteer any spare time to Wikifur whenever articles need to be improved.

=== Fursona ===
My [[fursona]] is a lime [[Siberian Husky]] named Lumin. My reference sheet was drawn by [[Pulex]] and shared on meow.social, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023.<ref>[https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525 "here's a reference sheet, drawn by pulexart.com!"] post on Lumin City's meow.social [[Mastodon]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> My profile picture featuring my fursona was drawn by the [[Furry artist]] [[feve]] on [[FurAffinity]] on January 30th.<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/"] post on feve's [[FurAffinity]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
My [[Fursuit]], Lumin was made by [[Shellsews]]. A video unboxing and discussing my journey to having it made was uploaded to my YouTube channel on January 6th, 2024.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ag9JucHqE "Unboxing The Best Worst Fursuit & Suiting Up"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published January 6, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> Lumin was first revealed at [[Anthro New England 2024]].

=== Convention Attendance ===
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|}
</div>

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2023
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023

== Honoring Mark Merlino ==

=== How Joe Strike Was My Mark Merlino ===
Despite having never personally met Merlino, I had met [[Joe Strike]], another early Furry who wrote two books on the fandom,<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2023/11/13/book-review-furry-planet/ "Book review – Furry Planet: A World Gone Wild is an enjoyable tour of furries around the world."] by [[Grubbs Grizzly]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published November 13, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> and was born two years earlier than Merlino. I first met him in June 2021 at an NYC movie theater furmeet watching Peter Rabbit 2. We then numerous times at various meetups and furry conventions. He started a monthly Furry and Brony meetup after being inspired by London Furs' monthly meetups that saw over a hundred Furries,<ref>[https://www.meetup.com/nyc-furries/events/295007511/ "MONTHLY FURRY/BRONY MEET-UP!"] post by Joe Strike on meetup.com. Retrieved February 24, 2024. "The London Furs have been meeting every month for years: 100+ furries gather at a friendly bar/restaurant with outdoor space to eat, drink and even suit up—and there’s no reason we New Yorkers [sic] furries and bronies can’t do the same!"</ref> which I attended several times. Our most recent encounter was at Anthro New England 2024 when I showed him my Fursuit. Merlino's passing was a reminder to appreciate the time I left with him, as it'll likely only be a few years longer.

=== The Importance of Legacy ===
'''Trigger Warning:''' This section contains detailed discussions about child abuse, mental illness, and suicide that may be distressing for some readers. I understand these topics can be difficult. If you need support, please reach out to the 988 hotline (The United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide your local suicide hotline,] or someone you trust. Additional resources, including mental health organizations, are also available for support.
<br><br/>
I was reminded of [[Dogbomb]]'s passing from [[Wikipedia:ALS|ALS]] back in 2019,<ref>[https://twitter.com/dogbomb1/status/1114286592737210368 "Dogbomb has left the building. / I love all y’all!"] post by Dogbomb on [[Twitter]]. Published April 5, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> two years before I joined the fandom, and [[Wikipedia:MatPat|MatPat]]'s YouTube video on July 25th, 2018 honoring Ronnie, who sadly ended his life through suicide.<ref name="Losing The Battle">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWTEE4SkCLY "Losing the Battle"] video on [[Wikipedia:The Game Theorists|The Game Theorists]] YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> I empathized with Dogbomb's struggle with ALS, and MatPat's grieving of Ronnie, as I had struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts for years before and while in the Fandom.

{{q|Ronnie, in all the years that I knew him, dealt with demons that only he could understand. Scars left by a childhood that he kept under a lock and key. ... What I can say is that he did his best to move on; to strike out on his own, to move beyond the trauma of his past. To take his mental health into his own hands, and take his recovery seriously, one step at a time, every single day.}}

I also related to MatPat's description of Ronnie's personality, resulting in his actions being perceived as malicious despite his good intentions.

{{q|That past also gave him a personality that was probably best described as... an acquired taste. He was incredibly sharp and incredibly witty, but he also had this ability to cut through a person's facade in a way that was sometimes hilarious and sometimes a bit off-putting. ... it was that same personality that, understandably, sometimes got him into trouble with people who weren't familiar with that part of him, who didn't understand that's the way he processed the world, that- that was the way he dealt with social situations, that he was a person with dark periods who had a tendency to sometimes lash out with anger. ... It wasn't an easy side to deal with, but that wasn't Ronnie. Ronnie wasn't an arrogant person, he was just socially unsure. He was unaware of how his behaviors would be perceived by others.}}

MatPat apologized for those Ronnie had hurt and didn't see "Ronnie as he really was", who hugged MatPat after their last Gamelab episode together and took pride in obscure internet trivia. I similarly had experiences in private chats, at furmeets and Furry conventions where I assisted other Furries, lent an ear to those who needed help, and gave hugs in Fursuit.

{{q|Those moments were the true Ronnie. When he was unburdened by his past. When sunlight would peek through all of the clouds. It was take a lot of patience to get there, and a lot of long conversations and phone calls. But when he got there, it was great because you knew that it was honest. And it was genuine. It was a person who was free.
}}

{{q|Ronnie told me once in the early days of the channel's history that it was his goal for his animations to be recognized and for him to be influential as an artist...}}

MatPat wanted to tell Ronnie that he achieved his goal of becoming an influential artist, making the "Game Theory style" and inspired many of The Game Theorist's editors. MatPat hoped Ronnie knew he achieved his goal, and regretted not telling him how proud he was of him, how he evolved as an artist with his elaborate animations, and created his voice, not only impacting the channel but the internet as a whole.

{{q|We're all really busy, every hour of every day around the clock. But take the opportunity to tell people what you think. How much you appreciate them, how much you love them, how proud you are of them. Even if that person is really weird in the way that they take their compliments like Ronnie often was. It'll stick. It'll land. And that compliment will really mean a lot."}}

Matpat hoped his video on Ronnie's loss would "start to break down the stigmas around talking about mental health, social anxiety, and suicide."

{{q|First, and most importantly, remember, you are never alone. Never. Even if it feels like you have no one to talk to. Even if you're talking to someone and it feels like they can't say the right thing, it's okay. It's about you not having to carry the burden yourself. It's about you NOT having to go through this alone. Keep talking, keep conversations open, because it is the single most important thing in these sorts of situations. It's about you being able to give voice to what's wrong, to what you can only experience without being judged.}}

MatPat had done fan meetups at conventions like [[Wikipedia:VidCon|VidCon]], meeting fans facing similar struggles and being honored he was the reason they continued living.

{{q|a lot of you who watch this channel go through these struggles. That you're dealing with social anxiety, with suicidal thoughts, with depression, and what I often hear from you in those stories is that this channel, this community, had helped bring you through the darkest of times, the lowest of lows. A breakup, a loss of a family member, whatever dark thoughts might be circulating through your head and that is the biggest honor for me to hear, that me nerding out in my closet somehow gave you hope to continue on, to know that you weren't alone, that your mind processes things differently and that's okay, and that other people are out there just like you. But I also recognize that this is a battle that you have to fight every day, and it's a battle that you have to WIN every single day. Ronnie fought that battle for a lot of days, and he won for a lot of days. But it only takes one loss...}}

MatPat asks viewers to share their stories with those willing to listen to them. Despite social media getting increasingly polarized, it still can unite those and give people who feel like no one will listen to them some that will. He also asks those to reach out in real life, providing various services. Most importantly though, MatPat reminds viewers that they're important, valued, and loved, even if they don't realize it, and to honor Ronnie's memory by living and talking openly and honestly with others.

{{q|don't be ashamed to have your voice be heard, to share your story out there with people who are ready and EAGER to listen to it. ... at a time when social video and social media are constantly tearing each other apart, let's remember that it has positive to offer, too. That it can unite people. That it can give people who feel like they have no one to listen to them. Someone who is there; to listen. But, also reach out in real life. There are countless numbers of services out there available to help you: Suicide hotlines, websites, therapists, people who are trained to help. ... most importantly of all, remember that you are important. That you are valued and that you are LOVED by more people than you could ever possibly think of. ... Honor his memory by living, most importantly of all, and talking openly and honestly with each other. That's most important.}}

On October 8th, 2018, seven months after DogBomb's initial [[FurAffinity]] revealing he had ALS,<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/journal/8648748/ "ALS Can Kiss My Fuzzy Butt"] - Fur Affinity journal by Dogbomb. Dated March 8, 2018. Retrieved March 22, 2019.</ref> [[Kijani Lion]] wrote about him for [[Dogpatch Press]]. When asked what he what is best piece of advice was Dogbomb's response was one I fully agreed with.

{{q|Bad stuff happens, it just does, and that’s okay, ... The only thing we can truly control are our own actions and reactions. If you meet challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, you’ve just beaten the universe at its own game.<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2018/10/08/last-mutt-standing-dogbomb "'Last Mutt Standing': Dogbomb inspires the world through his courageous battle against ALS"] by [[Kijani Lion]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published October 8, 2018. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>}}

=== Moving Forward ===

Merlino's passing has reminded me that the fandom wouldn't exist in the way it is without him, being inclusive and accepting of those outcasted by society, especially those LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. It reaffirmed my belief that beyond appreciating anthropomorphic animals, this is what the fandom is truly about. With the rise in far-right anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, especially toward the fandom, it's now more important than ever for us to be united against such bigotry, instead of continuing to tear ourselves apart.

I hope to continue Merlino's legacy by introducing new members to the fandom through my work, archiving Furry history, and keep fighting the stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, especially the transgender community. I want to inspire the next generation of Furries for the next few decades and leave my mark on the fandom that is just as impactful as Merlino's. The fandom has been around for almost four decades, and I hope we can continue it for another four and beyond.

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Fursona Pictures" widths="250px" heights="250px">
File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png|Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin drawn by [[Pulex]].
File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png|Lumin City's profile picture drawn by feve.
</gallery>

== To-Do List ==
* [[Zweitesich]]
** [https://www.dazeddigital.com/fashion/article/44690/1/furries-furry-community-designer-fursuit-costume-controversy-backlash-zweitesich Designer Fursuit Controversy]
* [[Midwest FurFest 2023]]
** [https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/wall-of-flippers-detects-flipper-zero-bluetooth-spam-attacks/ Flipper Zero Disruption]
** [https://www.pcgamer.com/fake-valve-prism-vr-headset-website-is-a-prank-based-on-an-extremely-specific-joke-from-the-2023-midwest-furfest-furry-convention/ Valve Prism Prank]
* [[Anthro New England 2024]]
**[https://twitter.com/PatrickSnowyote/status/1749842584199913903 Photo Restriction Controversy]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/user/LuminCity/fursuiting Lumin City] on [[FurTrack]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/index/character:lumin_(husky) Lumin City's Fursuit] on [[FurTrack]]

[[Category:Canid_species]]
[[Category:Canine_species]]
[[Category:Dog_characters]]
[[Category:Husky_characters]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:New Jersey]]
[[Category:New York]]
[[Category:New York City]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]
[[Category:United_States_of_America]]
[[Category:YouTubers]]

User:Lumin City

2024-02-26T14:11:12Z

Lumin City: Elaborated on the main photo's description.

{{Personal-article|Lumin City}}

{{Infobox
|name = YouTuber
|bodystyle =
|title = Lumin City
|titlestyle =
|image = [[File:Lumin_ANE2024_Fursuit_Games.jpg|200px]]
|imagestyle =
|caption = Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin at Anthro New England 2024.
|captionstyle =
|headerstyle = background:#ccf;
|labelstyle = background:#ddf;
|datastyle =

|header4 = Personal information
|label4 = Nationality
|data4 = American
|label5 = Other names
|data5 = Lumin, Illumination City
|label6 = Hobbies
|data6 = [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
|label7 = Species
|data7 = [[Siberian Husky]]

|header8 = YouTube information
|label9 = Channel
|data9 = [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City]
|header6 =
|label10 = Years active
|data10 = 2021-present
|label11 = Genres
|data11 = [[Wikipedia:News|News]], [[Wikipedia:Opinion_piece|commentary]]
|label12 = Subscribers
|data12 = 1.47 thousand<ref name="YouTube About">[https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity/about "About Lumin City"] [[YouTube]].</ref>
|label13 = Total views
|data13 = 218 thousand<ref name="YouTube About"/>
}}

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
| {{User YouTube}}
|-
| {{User LGBT}}
|}
</div>

I'm an [[Wikipedia:Asian_Americans|Asian-American]] [[Wikipedia:Neurodiversity|neurodivergent]] [[Transgender|non-binary]] [[fursuiter]], [[Youtuber]], and online personality from the [[Wikipedia:New_York_metropolitan_area|New York metro area]]. I'm best known for my informative and highly edited videos discussing the Fandom through a progressive lens. Don't be afraid to contact me!

== Fandom Involvement ==
I joined the Fandom in early 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, having previously watched Furry videos on the internet. I attended my first [[furmeet]] in May 2021, and my first [[furry convention]] [[Furrydelphia]] in August. I've attended numerous furmeets and furry conventions since.

=== YouTube Career ===
My YouTube channel is dedicated to improving the fandom by documenting and archiving Furry history through engaging videos. It has a progressive lean, discussing including but not limited to economic equality, education, and social justice. I make videos on Furries, Furry conventions, and the Fandom's interactions with others on the internet, both good and bad. I also discuss those trying to take advantage of the Fandom, including but not limited to non-Furry content creators disrespecting the Fandom, including harassing attendees at fur cons to get views and news platforms using the Fandom to push bigoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

=== Joining WikiFur ===
While I had edited for WikiFur since December 17th, 2022, it was infrequent. Following [[Mark Merlino]]'s passing from stage IV liver cancer<ref>[https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-true-fandom-original "Help a True Fandom Original."] post by [[Rodney Stansfield]] on [[W:GoFundMe|GoFundMe]]. Retrieved February 9, 2024.</ref> on February 20th,<ref>[https://twitter.com/Skiltaire_Party/status/1759882242137149928 "He's gone."] post on [[The Prancing Skiltaire]]'s [[Twitter]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> watching the fandom collectively mourn his loss, including me, I started reading his Wikifur article to look back at his history. I had mentioned ConFurence, the first furry convention co-founded by Merlino and his partner, Rod O'Riley in a YouTube video on November 9th, 2021. discussing the "real" problem with furry conventions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLbKJqoNclw "The REAL Problem With Furry Conventions (BLFC 2021)"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> However, the more I looked at his life I realized his influence went beyond ConFurence, helping found not only the Furry Fandom but also popularizing the Anime fandom.

His dedication to archiving and teaching Furry history later in life particularly struck a chord with me, as it helped in producing numerous YouTube videos, including using ConFurence to discuss how furry conventions always had issues. As a result, I've decided to volunteer my time in editing Wikifur articles to serve the next generation of Furries to be able to learn about the Fandom, but also fight back against far-right anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes and conspiracies against the Fandom. While my main focus will be on YouTube due to having a wider reach, I'll volunteer any spare time to Wikifur whenever articles need to be improved.

=== Fursona ===
My [[fursona]] is a lime [[Siberian Husky]] named Lumin. My reference sheet was drawn by [[Pulex]] and shared on meow.social, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023.<ref>[https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525 "here's a reference sheet, drawn by pulexart.com!"] post on Lumin City's meow.social [[Mastodon]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> My profile picture featuring my fursona was drawn by the [[Furry artist]] [[feve]] on [[FurAffinity]] on January 30th.<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/"] post on feve's [[FurAffinity]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
My [[Fursuit]], Lumin was made by [[Shellsews]]. A video unboxing and discussing my journey to having it made was uploaded to my YouTube channel on January 6th, 2024.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ag9JucHqE "Unboxing The Best Worst Fursuit & Suiting Up"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published January 6, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> Lumin was first revealed at [[Anthro New England 2024]].

=== Convention Attendance ===
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|}
</div>

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2023
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023

== Honoring Mark Merlino ==

=== How Joe Strike Was My Mark Merlino ===
Despite having never personally met Merlino, I had met [[Joe Strike]], another early Furry who wrote two books on the fandom,<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2023/11/13/book-review-furry-planet/ "Book review – Furry Planet: A World Gone Wild is an enjoyable tour of furries around the world."] by [[Grubbs Grizzly]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published November 13, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> and was born two years earlier than Merlino. I first met him in June 2021 at an NYC movie theater furmeet watching Peter Rabbit 2. We then numerous times at various meetups and furry conventions. He started a monthly Furry and Brony meetup after being inspired by London Furs' monthly meetups that saw over a hundred Furries,<ref>[https://www.meetup.com/nyc-furries/events/295007511/ "MONTHLY FURRY/BRONY MEET-UP!"] post by Joe Strike on meetup.com. Retrieved February 24, 2024. "The London Furs have been meeting every month for years: 100+ furries gather at a friendly bar/restaurant with outdoor space to eat, drink and even suit up—and there’s no reason we New Yorkers [sic] furries and bronies can’t do the same!"</ref> which I attended several times. Our most recent encounter was at Anthro New England 2024 when I showed him my Fursuit. Merlino's passing was a reminder to appreciate the time I left with him, as it'll likely only be a few years longer.

=== The Importance of Legacy ===
'''Trigger Warning:''' This section contains detailed discussions about child abuse, mental illness, and suicide that may be distressing for some readers. I understand these topics can be difficult. If you need support, please reach out to the 988 hotline (The United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide your local suicide hotline,] or someone you trust. Additional resources, including mental health organizations, are also available for support.
<br><br/>
I was reminded of [[Dogbomb]]'s passing from [[Wikipedia:ALS|ALS]] back in 2019,<ref>[https://twitter.com/dogbomb1/status/1114286592737210368 "Dogbomb has left the building. / I love all y’all!"] post by Dogbomb on [[Twitter]]. Published April 5, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> two years before I joined the fandom, and [[Wikipedia:MatPat|MatPat]]'s YouTube video on July 25th, 2018 honoring Ronnie, who sadly ended his life through suicide.<ref name="Losing The Battle">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWTEE4SkCLY "Losing the Battle"] video on [[Wikipedia:The Game Theorists|The Game Theorists]] YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> I empathized with Dogbomb's struggle with ALS, and MatPat's grieving of Ronnie, as I had struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts for years before and while in the Fandom.

{{q|Ronnie, in all the years that I knew him, dealt with demons that only he could understand. Scars left by a childhood that he kept under a lock and key. ... What I can say is that he did his best to move on; to strike out on his own, to move beyond the trauma of his past. To take his mental health into his own hands, and take his recovery seriously, one step at a time, every single day.}}

I also related to MatPat's description of Ronnie's personality, resulting in his actions being perceived as malicious despite his good intentions.

{{q|That past also gave him a personality that was probably best described as... an acquired taste. He was incredibly sharp and incredibly witty, but he also had this ability to cut through a person's facade in a way that was sometimes hilarious and sometimes a bit off-putting. ... it was that same personality that, understandably, sometimes got him into trouble with people who weren't familiar with that part of him, who didn't understand that's the way he processed the world, that- that was the way he dealt with social situations, that he was a person with dark periods who had a tendency to sometimes lash out with anger. ... It wasn't an easy side to deal with, but that wasn't Ronnie. Ronnie wasn't an arrogant person, he was just socially unsure. He was unaware of how his behaviors would be perceived by others.}}

MatPat apologized for those Ronnie had hurt and didn't see "Ronnie as he really was", who hugged MatPat after their last Gamelab episode together and took pride in obscure internet trivia. I similarly had experiences in private chats, at furmeets and Furry conventions where I assisted other Furries, lent an ear to those who needed help, and gave hugs in Fursuit.

{{q|Those moments were the true Ronnie. When he was unburdened by his past. When sunlight would peek through all of the clouds. It was take a lot of patience to get there, and a lot of long conversations and phone calls. But when he got there, it was great because you knew that it was honest. And it was genuine. It was a person who was free.
}}

{{q|Ronnie told me once in the early days of the channel's history that it was his goal for his animations to be recognized and for him to be influential as an artist...}}

MatPat wanted to tell Ronnie that he achieved his goal of becoming an influential artist, making the "Game Theory style" and inspired many of The Game Theorist's editors. MatPat hoped Ronnie knew he achieved his goal, and regretted not telling him how proud he was of him, how he evolved as an artist with his elaborate animations, and created his voice, not only impacting the channel but the internet as a whole.

{{q|We're all really busy, every hour of every day around the clock. But take the opportunity to tell people what you think. How much you appreciate them, how much you love them, how proud you are of them. Even if that person is really weird in the way that they take their compliments like Ronnie often was. It'll stick. It'll land. And that compliment will really mean a lot."}}

Matpat hoped his video on Ronnie's loss would "start to break down the stigmas around talking about mental health, social anxiety, and suicide."

{{q|First, and most importantly, remember, you are never alone. Never. Even if it feels like you have no one to talk to. Even if you're talking to someone and it feels like they can't say the right thing, it's okay. It's about you not having to carry the burden yourself. It's about you NOT having to go through this alone. Keep talking, keep conversations open, because it is the single most important thing in these sorts of situations. It's about you being able to give voice to what's wrong, to what you can only experience without being judged.}}

MatPat had done fan meetups at conventions like [[Wikipedia:VidCon|VidCon]], meeting fans facing similar struggles and being honored he was the reason they continued living.

{{q|a lot of you who watch this channel go through these struggles. That you're dealing with social anxiety, with suicidal thoughts, with depression, and what I often hear from you in those stories is that this channel, this community, had helped bring you through the darkest of times, the lowest of lows. A breakup, a loss of a family member, whatever dark thoughts might be circulating through your head and that is the biggest honor for me to hear, that me nerding out in my closet somehow gave you hope to continue on, to know that you weren't alone, that your mind processes things differently and that's okay, and that other people are out there just like you. But I also recognize that this is a battle that you have to fight every day, and it's a battle that you have to WIN every single day. Ronnie fought that battle for a lot of days, and he won for a lot of days. But it only takes one loss...}}

MatPat asks viewers to share their stories with those willing to listen to them. Despite social media getting increasingly polarized, it still can unite those and give people who feel like no one will listen to them some that will. He also asks those to reach out in real life, providing various services. Most importantly though, MatPat reminds viewers that they're important, valued, and loved, even if they don't realize it, and to honor Ronnie's memory by living and talking openly and honestly with others.

{{q|don't be ashamed to have your voice be heard, to share your story out there with people who are ready and EAGER to listen to it. ... at a time when social video and social media are constantly tearing each other apart, let's remember that it has positive to offer, too. That it can unite people. That it can give people who feel like they have no one to listen to them. Someone who is there; to listen. But, also reach out in real life. There are countless numbers of services out there available to help you: Suicide hotlines, websites, therapists, people who are trained to help. ... most importantly of all, remember that you are important. That you are valued and that you are LOVED by more people than you could ever possibly think of. ... Honor his memory by living, most importantly of all, and talking openly and honestly with each other. That's most important.}}

On October 8th, 2018, seven months after DogBomb's initial [[FurAffinity]] revealing he had ALS,<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/journal/8648748/ "ALS Can Kiss My Fuzzy Butt"] - Fur Affinity journal by Dogbomb. Dated March 8, 2018. Retrieved March 22, 2019.</ref> [[Kijani Lion]] wrote about him for [[Dogpatch Press]]. When asked what he what is best piece of advice was Dogbomb's response was one I fully agreed with.

{{q|Bad stuff happens, it just does, and that’s okay, ... The only thing we can truly control are our own actions and reactions. If you meet challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, you’ve just beaten the universe at its own game.<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2018/10/08/last-mutt-standing-dogbomb "'Last Mutt Standing': Dogbomb inspires the world through his courageous battle against ALS"] by [[Kijani Lion]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published October 8, 2018. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>}}

=== Moving Forward ===

Merlino's passing has reminded me that the fandom wouldn't exist in the way it is without him, being inclusive and accepting of those outcasted by society, especially those LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. It reaffirmed my belief that beyond appreciating anthropomorphic animals, this is what the fandom is truly about. With the rise in far-right anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, especially toward the fandom, it's now more important than ever for us to be united against such bigotry, instead of continuing to tear ourselves apart.

I hope to continue Merlino's legacy by introducing new members to the fandom through my work, archiving Furry history, and keep fighting the stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, especially the transgender community. I want to inspire the next generation of Furries for the next few decades and leave my mark on the fandom that is just as impactful as Merlino's. The fandom has been around for almost four decades, and I hope we can continue it for another four and beyond.

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Fursona Pictures" widths="250px" heights="250px">
File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png|Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin drawn by [[Pulex]].
File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png|Lumin City's profile picture drawn by feve.
</gallery>

== To-Do List ==
* [[Midwest FurFest 2023]]
** [https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/wall-of-flippers-detects-flipper-zero-bluetooth-spam-attacks/ Flipper Zero Disruption]
** [https://www.pcgamer.com/fake-valve-prism-vr-headset-website-is-a-prank-based-on-an-extremely-specific-joke-from-the-2023-midwest-furfest-furry-convention/ Valve Prism Prank]
* [https://twitter.com/PatrickSnowyote/status/1749842584199913903 Anthro New England 2024's Photo Restriction Controversy]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/user/LuminCity/fursuiting Lumin City] on [[FurTrack]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/index/character:lumin_(husky) Lumin City's Fursuit] on [[FurTrack]]

[[Category:Canid_species]]
[[Category:Canine_species]]
[[Category:Dog_characters]]
[[Category:Husky_characters]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:New Jersey]]
[[Category:New York]]
[[Category:New York City]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]
[[Category:United_States_of_America]]
[[Category:YouTubers]]

Talk:PeaceDubz

2024-02-25T15:41:08Z

Lumin City: Responding to Fesothe's accusations of being biased against PeaceWolf.

== Discussion of Neutrality ==
Moving [[User:Fesothe|Fesothe]]'s message from my user discussion page to PeaceWolf's article discussion page.
{{q| Please stop editing and messing with the [[PeaceWolf]] page/article you're removing too much important info and replacing it with in my eyes hate attacks. If you do not like her please take those feelings to your own website, write extensively and link them on the page if they are relevant and are proved as true, as others have said before for others to do so. If you cant do that please just stop editing it as you removed convention info and other things of interest and are replacing it with controversial stuff and hate where facts cant be ascertained, I understand a tag has been added that you may feel allows you to put all manor of POV stuff but you should refrain from using it as a hate dump page [[User:Fesothe|Fesothe]] ([[User talk:Fesothe|talk]])[[User:Fesothe|Fesothe]]}}
: Please elaborate on what you mean by "hate attacks". I've never maliciously attacked PeaceWolf on her page. All of the claims that were made were cited with sources. I added information on PeaceWolf founding Tails and Tornadoes Fur Con, being the chair and president of TTFC 2019, and her attendance of Free Fur All 2023. I even changed the biased "Ousting from Tails and Tornadoes Fur Con", to the more neutral "Accusations of Bigotry", which was also reverted. I'm unsure how writing this on a separate website, and linking it back to the article if "relevant and are proved as true", would be helpful, as it would add an unnecessary step. I had made two videos criticizing PeaceWolf's occasion with bigots in the fandom several months ago, but I provided numerous sources to back up my points. I wouldn't use my videos as sources due to my progressive lean that I've disclosed on my user page, but the sources in the video.

: PeaceWolf was allegedly homophobic while the chair and president of TTFC,<ref>[https://ghostarchive.org/archive/8NOl2 "https://twitter.com/Istanbul777/status/1553572206864748544"] post by @Instanbul777 on [[Twitter]]. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> that led to her resignation, and tweeted not believing in institutional racism during the George Floyd protests<ref>[https://ghostarchive.org/archive/5Db10 "https://twitter.com/HYENAFREQUENCY/status/1318704603765026818"] tweet on @ HYENAFREQUENCY's Twitter account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>. I've tried my best to write from a neutral point of view despite my opposition towards bigotry both inside and outside the fandom, and the "tag" was added after my edits. I simply stated her bigoted comments, and how accusations of bigotry saw her face consequences, including her former Tails and Tornadoes Fur Con who have since distanced themselves from her.<ref>[https://ghostarchive.org/archive/Ozc38 "https://twitter.com/TTFurcon/status/1299480348724785154"] tweet on Tails and Tornadoes Fur Con's Twitter account @TTFurCon. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

: The purpose of WikiFur is to explain all sides of the fandom, whether the information is perceived as "hate attacks" or calling out bigotry. I believe providing both sides to the situation, even towards objectionable, bigoted views will help inform the most readers by allowing them to come to their conclusions. [[User:Lumin City|Lumin City]] ([[User talk:Lumin City|talk]]) 10:41, 25 February 2024 (EST)
== References ==
<references/>

Furpocalypse

2024-02-25T13:06:29Z

Lumin City: Reorganized the lead and reorganized the three sections about to con into a table.

{{Infobox convention
|name = Furpocalypse
|logo = [[File:Furpocalypse Generic.png|300px|Furpocalypse logo]]
|subject = Furry
|location = {{flagdiv|usa|[[Wikipedia:Stamford, Connecticut|Stamford]], [[Wikipedia:Connecticut|Connecticut]], [[Wikipedia:USA|USA]]}}
|url = http://www.furpocalypse.org/
|status = Ongoing
|first = 31 October - 2 November, 2014
|final =
|organizer = Furpocalypse, Inc.
|charity = [https://www.qplusct.org/ Q-Plus CT] - 2022 to present
|resources = {{con resources}}
}}
{{Furpocalypse}}
'''Furpocalypse''' is a [[Wikipedia:Connecticut|Connecticut-based]] Halloween-themed [[Furry convention]] "that raises money for animal and environmental charities" and "hosts anthropomorphic enthusiasts from all over the world, enjoying a wide variety of classes, discussion groups, and events.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://furpocalypse.org/faq/ |title=Furpocalypse Website FAQ |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190318232827/https://furpocalypse.org/faq/ |archivedate=March 18, 2019 |quote=Furpocalypse is a Halloween-themed Anthropomorphic convention in Cromwell, Connecticut that raises money for animal and environmental charities. The 3-day event hosts anthropomorphic enthusiasts from all over the world, enjoying a wide variety of classes, discussion groups, and events.}}</ref> It was founded by former [[FurFright]] staff after being discontinued in 2013<ref>Email, 1 December 2013, as well as [http://furfright.livejournal.com/495312.html LiveJournal entry]: "Since that time the Con Chairs have experienced a devastating turn of events in their personal/family life, making it impossible for the convention to continue. All our time, energy, and resources need to be spent healing and coping with the challenges we face. So due to circumstances beyond our control, FurFright has come to an end. 2013 was our final year."</ref> to continue the tradition of an annual Halloween-themed Connecticut Furry convention.<ref>''[http://www.flayrah.com/5474/news-furfright-closure-emerges-through-leaked-email News of FurFright closure emerges through leaked email] (1 December 2013)</ref>

Furpocalypse was first held in 2014 in Cromwell, Connecticut. On October 27th, 2019, the final day of [[Furpocalypse 2019]], the convention announced on Twitter that it was moving to Stamford, Connecticut in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/1188599810305265664 |title=Furpocalypse Moving Hotels |date=October 27, 2019 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=We would like to officially announce that Furpocalypse 2020 will be held at the @IHG Crowne Plaza of Stamford Connecticut! }}</ref> However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, [[Furpocalypse 2022|2022]] would be their first year at the Stamford hotel.

== Furpocalypse By Year==

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! scope="col" | Convention year
! scope="col" | Attendance
! scope="col" | Fursuiters
! scope="col" | Charity
! scope="col" | Donation Amount
! scope="col" | Theme
! scope="col" | Guests of Honor
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2014|2014]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/529080564830449664 |title=Furpocalypse 2014 Stats Tweet |date= November 2, 2014 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=Attendees: 1200, ttl [total] fursuiters: 290, ttl profits raised for War Dogs: 3800.00}}</ref>
| 1,200
| 290
| [https://www.uswardogs.org/ US War Dogs Association]
| $3,800.00
| Research and Development<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.furpocalypse.org/ |title=Furpocalypse 2014 Website Theme |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140813200226/https://furpocalypse.org/ |archivedate=August 13, 2014}}</ref>
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2015|2015]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/660967554521919488 |title=Furpocalypse 2015 Stats Tweet |date= November 1, 2015 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=over 1400 attendees! 362 Fursuiters and made $5,800 for War Dogs!}}</ref>
| "over" 1,400
| 362
| US War Dogs Association
| $5,800.00
| The Dark Carnival Freak Show<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/530203090381574145 |title=Furpocalypse 2015 Theme Tweet |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324051949/https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/530203090381574145 |archivedate= November 5, 2014 |quote=Are you ready for the dark carnival freak show?}}</ref>
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2016|2016]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/793582433534898176 |title=Furpocalypse 2016 Stats Tweet |date=November 1, 2016 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=We had 1,455 attendees and raised a final total of $5,500 for War Dogs!}}</ref>
| 1,455
| Unknown
| US War Dogs Association
| $5,500.00
| Night at the Movies<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.furpocalypse.org/ |title=Furpocalypse 2016 Website Theme |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160307153244/https://www.furpocalypse.org/ |archivedate=March 7, 2016}}</ref>
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2017|2017]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/924768491596603392 |title=Furpocalypse 2017 Stats Tweet |date=October 29, 2017 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=1,336 attendees 325 fursuiters and an incredible $4,282.78 raised for War Dogs!}}</ref>
| 1,336
| 325
| US War Dogs Association
| $4,282.78
| The Haunted Asylum<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/793582433534898176 |title=Furpocalypse 2017 Website |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170927141017/https://www.furpocalypse.org/ |archivedate=November 1, 2016}}</ref>
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2018|2018]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/ValdorFox/status/1056686733922844674 |title=Furpocalypse 2018 Stats Tweet |date=October 28, 2018 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=#Furpocalypse numbers: 1391 attendees, 417 Furuiters, $10,373 for The War Dogs!}}</ref>
| 1,391
| 417
| US War Dogs Association & [https://web.archive.org/web/20170829210446/https://www.ourtruecolors.org/ True Colors]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/1034850654165061632 |title=Furpocalypse 2018 Second Charity Tweet |date=August 29, 2018 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=This year we're also working for True Colors: Sexual Minority Youth & Family Services.}}</ref>
| $10,373
| Thriller Nights<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/967563135010787328 |title=Furpocalypse 2018 Theme Tweet |date=February 24, 2018 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=Furpocalypse 2018 will be Thriller nights!}}</ref>
| [[Cocadope]] & [[Jib Kodi]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.furpocalypse.org/guest-of-honor/ |title=Furpocalypse 2018 Guests of Honor Tweet |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413193009/https://www.furpocalypse.org/guest-of-honor/ |archivedate=November 1, 2018}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2019|2019]]
| 1,500<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6qJBazBJas&t=2435 |title=Furpocalypse 2019: Closing Ceremonies |date=September 29, 2020 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=1,500 [attendees]!}}</ref>
| 418<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6qJBazBJas&t=3704 |title=Furpocalypse 2019: Closing Ceremonies |date=September 29, 2020 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=we filled this room up with a bunch fursuiters. And after the parade, we broke the record last year. 418.}}</ref>
| US War Dogs Association & True Colors
| $7,169<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6qJBazBJas&t=4138 |title=Furpocalypse 2019: Closing Ceremonies |date=September 29, 2020 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=seven one six nine is our total, for charity.}}</ref>
| Retro Wasteland<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/1106676852582744065 |title=Furpocalypse 2019 Theme Tweet |date=February 24, 2018 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=this years theme of... RETRO WASTELAND}}</ref>
| [[Kenket]] & [[Robo-Shark]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.furpocalypse.org/goh/ |title=Furpocalypse 2019 Guests of Honor Page |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20190318232830/https://www.furpocalypse.org/goh/ |archivedate=March 18, 2019}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2020|2020]]<ref group=note name="COVID-19">Event was online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/1332398888888659970 |title=Furpocalypse 2020 Donations Tweet |date=November, 2020 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=we raised $1,861 for [@TrueColorsCT] this year!}}</ref>
| N/A
| N/A
| True Colors
| $1,861
| A Virtual Halloween<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/984642642859487232 |title=Furpocalypse 2020 Theme Tweet |date=February 24, 2018 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=Furpocalypse: A Virtual Halloween}}</ref>
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2021|2021]]<ref group=note name="COVID-19"/>
| N/A
| N/A
| N/A
| N/A
| Livestream Montage<ref group=note>Unofficial theme name.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://t.me/c/1084908829/244228 |title=Furpocalypse Telegram Chat |date=October 26, 2021 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=@TimeSurpression: We'll be doing a live stream at furpocalypse.tv. ... We'll be showing all the content we have from over the years}}</ref>
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2022|2022]]
| 1,627<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/RadioRaccoon/status/1586908023473278977 |title=Furpocalypse 2022 Attendee Tweet |date=October 31, 2022 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=According to #Furpocalypse Sun event video playback, 1627 attended this year}}</ref>
| 402<ref>{{cite web |url=https://t.me/c/1084908829/309906 |title=Furpocalypse Telegram Chat |date=November 1, 2022 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=@Zander_Puma_Whom_Wows: "Here's the Fursuit Parade at Furpoc '22. 402 In Parade"}}</ref>
| [https://www.qplusct.org/ Q-Plus CT]
| $10,510<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/1589350916687527936 |title=Furpocalypse 2022 Charity Tweet |date=November 6, 2022 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=We raised an impressive $10,510 for Q+}}</ref>
| Horror in Paradise<ref>{{cite web |url=https://furpocalypse.org/ |title=Furpocalypse 2022 Website Theme |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220517235036/https://furpocalypse.org/ archive|date=May 17, 2022}}}</ref>
| [[Cyamallo]] & [[DeadlyComics]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.furpocalypse.org/goh/ |title=Furpocalypse 2022 Guests of Honor Page |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220521213652/https://www.furpocalypse.org/goh/ |archivedate=May 21, 2022}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2023|2023]]
| 1,875<ref>{{cite web |url=https://t.me/c/1084908829/407755 |title=@[[DrFrankenstein]]'s message in the Furpocalypse Telegram Chat |date=November 1, 2022 |accessdate=February 25, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://t.me/c/1084908829/407756 |title=@[[User:Lumin City|LuminCity]]'s message in the Furpocalypse Telegram Chat |date=November 1, 2022 |accessdate=February 25, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://t.me/c/1084908829/407759 |title=@[[Anthrocoon]]'s message in the Furpocalypse Telegram Chat |date=November 1, 2022 |accessdate=February 25, 2024}}</ref>
| TBA
| Q-Plus CT
| $13,440.09<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/1725650059013062968 |title=Furpocalypse 2023 Charity Tweet |date=November 17, 2023 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=Our final count was $13,440.09 raised for Q+!}}</ref>
| Summercamp Slasher<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tiktok.com/@furpocalypseofficial/video/7245348551792889130 |title=Furpocalypse 2023 Theme TikTok |date=June 16, 2023 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=#summercampslasher}}</ref>
| [[Possessed Possum]] & [[ZucchiniFuzz]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/1717941847535009871 |title=Furpocalypse 2023 Guests Of Honor Tweet |date=October 27, 2023 |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |quote=The guest of honor meet & greet with Zucchini Fuzz and Possessed Pasm}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Furpocalypse 2024|2024]]
| TBD
| TBD
| Q-Plus CT<ref group=note>Presumptive charity.</ref>
| TBD
| Astrophobia<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.furpocalypse.org/ |title=Furpocalypse Website |accessdate=February 25, 2024 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225123217/https://furpocalypse.org/ |archivedate=February 25, 2024}}</ref>
| TBD
|}
{{reflist|group=note}}

==References==
<references/>

==External links==

* [https://furpocalypse.org/ Furpocalypse] official website
* [https://twitter.com/furpocalypseinc Furpocalypse] on [[Twitter]]

{{Conventions}}
[[Category:2014 births]]
[[Category:Connecticut]]
[[Category:Conventions]]
[[Category:Cromwell]]
[[Category:Furpocalypse]]
[[Category:Stamford]]

Furpocalypse 2015

2024-02-25T08:06:19Z

Lumin City: Removed the extranous citations, along with the clarification for "over 1400" attendees which is quoted from the tweet.

[[File:Furpocalypse2015Logo.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Furpocalypse 2015 theme]]
{{Furpocalypse}}
Furpocalypse 2015 was held between October 30th and November 1st<ref name="Tweet2015-1">[https://web.archive.org/web/20150324051949/https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/530203090381574145 "We are happy to announce Furpocalypse 2015 for Oct 30th - Nov 1st! Are you ready for the dark carnival freak show?"] from the Furpocalypse account on Twitter. Dated November 5, 2014. [https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/530203090381574145 Archived] from the Wayback Machine on March 24, 2015. Retrieved February 25, 2015.</ref>
at the Crowne Plaza Cromwell in Cromwell, [[Wikipedia:Connecticut|Connecticut]].<ref>[https://furpocalypse.org/hotel.html Hotel Information] on the Furpocalypse website. Retrieved November 1, 2015.</ref> The convention theme was "The Dark Carnival Freak Show".<ref name="Tweet2015-1"/>
There were "over 1400" attendees, including 362 fursuiters in the fursuit parade. $5,800 was raised for the [http://www.uswardogs.org/ US War Dog Association].<ref name="2015stats">[https://twitter.com/FurpocalypseInc/status/660967554521919488 "1400 attendees! 362 Fursuiters and made $5,800 for War Dogs!"] from @Furpocalypseinc on Twitter. Dated November 1, 2015. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

==References==
<references/>

[[Category:Cromwell]]
[[Category:Connecticut]]
[[Category:2015 events]]
[[Category:Furpocalypse]]

Anthrocon

2024-02-25T07:31:50Z

Lumin City: /* Attendance */ Reformatted the section, including the chart.

{{copyedit}}
{{Infobox convention
|name = Anthrocon
|logo = [[File:Anthrocon.gif|225px]]
|subject = Furry
|location = {{flagdiv|usa|[[Wikipedia:Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania|Pittsburgh]], [[Wikipedia:Pennsylvania|Pennsylvania]], [[Wikipedia:USA|USA]]}}
|url = http://www.anthrocon.org/
|status = Ongoing
|first =
July 3-6, 1997 (as '''Albany AnthroCon''')
July 1-4, 1999 (as '''AnthroCon''')
|final =
|organizer = Anthrocon, Inc.
|charity =
|resources = {{con resources}}
}}
{{Anthrocon}}
'''Anthrocon''', or just '''AC''', is a [[furry convention]] held yearly during the summer in [[W:Pittsburgh|Pittsburgh]], [[W:Pennsylvania|Pennsylvania]], USA. It is currently the [[List of conventions by attendance|world's largest]] [[furry]] [[convention]], with an attendance of 13,644 in [[Anthrocon 2023|AC 2023]], narrowly surpassing the attendance of [[Midwest FurFest 2022|MFF 2022]].

== History ==

The convention was founded in 1997 as '''Albany AnthroCon''', which itself an offshoot of the [[Furry]] [[W:Halloween|Halloween]] parties held by [[Aloyen Youngblood]]; when attendance pushed triple digits, he decided to book a hotel, and organized it as a convention in 1997 with the aid of local friends, [[Points]], [[Rigel]], and others. In its first year, it had approximately 500 attendees.

In late 1998-1999, the chairmanship of the convention was transferred to [[Dr. Samuel Conway]] by Points, and they formally organized the group as '''Anthrocon Inc.''', and later renamed the convention to "Anthrocon", and relocated it to Pennsylvania. Its first venue was the [[W:Hilton Hotels & Resorts|Hilton Hotel]] of [[W:Valley Forge, Pennsylvania|Valley Forge, Pennsylvania]] in 1999 and 2000. Due to a rapid increase in attendees, it was forced to relocate to the larger [[W:Adam's Mark|Adams Mark Hotel]] of [[W:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]] in 2001, where it became the largest furry convention ever held, with 1,457 attendees.

Attendance continued to grow, and by 2004 it was 2,406. Attendance in 2005 dropped slightly to 2,373, due in part to higher parking fees, and a different and unfamiliar hotel, which was the Wyndham Franklin Plaza in downtown Philadelphia, and possibly due to [[W:Hurricane Dennis|Hurricane Dennis's]] effect on the southern United States which closed many airports and prevented people from traveling.

Attendance increased again in 2006 with the move to the [[W:David L. Lawrence Convention Center|David Lawrence Convention Center]] in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, reaching 2,489. In 2008, total attendance reached 3,390. In 2010, it increased with 4,238 attendees and four official convention hotels. Growth for the convention has historically averaged 14% yearly.

Since 1997, the Anthrocon Charity Auction has donated a total of $240K+ to local charities.

Security for the convention has been provided by the [[Dorsai Irregulars]] from 2002 until 2019.

== Current location and timeslot ==
[[File:AnthroconAttendance.PNG|thumb|right|250px|Visitor Statistics]]
Due to the unforeseen sale and closure of the [[Adam's Mark]] Hotel in November 2004, AC chose the [[W:Wyndham Worldwide|Wyndham Franklin Plaza]] in Philadelphia as the site for 2005 and announced that they would be moving there for the next year. In 2006, Due to scheduling conflicts, the convention had to temporarily leave its normal July timeslot and was held on June 15-18. In 2007, it was held July 5-8 at the same location.

The 2006 move to Pittsburgh was envisioned by AC's [[Board of Directors]] before the sale of the Adam's Mark Hotel took place, due to AC's increasing attendance. AC began [http://web.archive.org/web/20041030112340/http://www.anthrocon.org/info.cgi/ac2007 soliciting people's opinions about moving to Pittsburgh] in [http://www.flayrah.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=2016&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0 October 2004]. At the time, the convention was already too big for any affordable hotel in Philadelphia, and the Adam's Mark had the most convention space of any hotel of its size in the city before its demolition. The closing of the Adam's Mark simply moved those plans up a year.

While some were opposed to the move, most were supportive of it. Many attendees who supported the move lived out of Pennsylvania and the move made little difference to the trip there.

== Leadership ==

The chairman of the convention is [[Dr. Samuel Conway]] (also known as '''Kagemushi''' or '''Uncle Kage''' by attendees), who oversees AC's operations with the help of staff and volunteers who donate their time and energy throughout the weekend to assist the multitude of small tasks that arise.

=== Board of Directors ===

* [[Tim "The Foxish" Mithee]]: [[Dealers Den|Dealers' Room]], Photography
* [[Gen. Talon|Kenneth "Gen. Talon" Baker]]: Audio Visual
* [[Nicona Shadowwolf| Thomas "Nicona Shadowwolf" Brewer]]: [[Registration]]
* [[Kuddle Pup|John "K.P." Cole]]: Public Outreach
* [[Ashe Valisca|Waylon "Ashe" Darosh]]: [[Programming]]
* [[PeterCat|Peter "PeterCat" Kappesser]]: [[Art show]]
* [[Tigerwolf (Tigerden administrator)|George "Tigerwolf" Nemeyer]]: [[Internet room|Internet Room]]
* [[Ysera|Paige “Ysera” Ward]]: [[Publications]]
* [[Talyn_(Virginia)|Scott "Talyn" Williams]]: [[Con_Ops|Operations]]
* [[Ronnie|Isaac "Ronnie" Tan]]: Digital Services

==Guests of Honor==

Past [[Guests of Honor|GoH]] have included:
* 1997: [[Artist]]s [[Daphne Lage]] and [[Watts Martin]]
* 1998: Artists [[Jeffrey A. Carver]] and [[Jim Groat]]
* 1999: [[Author]] [[S. Andrew Swann]] and artist [[Vicky Wyman]]
* 2000: Artist [[Sara Miles|Caribou (was Sara Palmer)]] and author [[Paul Kidd]] (2000)
* 2001: [[Comic|comic-book artist]] [[Wikipedia:Dan DeCarlo|Dan DeCarlo]] (creator of [[W:Josie and the Pussycats (comics)|Josie and the Pussycats]]), and [[cartoonist|syndicated cartoonist]] [[Bill Holbrook]]
* 2002: Artist [[Heather Bruton]] and author [[Lisanne Norman]] (of the [[Sholan Alliance]] Series)
* 2003: Artists [[W:Guy Gilchrist|Guy Gilchrist]] and [[Mark E. Rogers]]
* 2004: Artists [[Michel Gagné]] and [[Stan Sakai]] (creator of [[Usagi Yojimbo]])
* 2005: [[Timothy Albee]] ("[[Kaze: Ghost Warrior|Kaze: Ghost Warrior]]") and [[W:Peter Laird|Peter Laird]], co-creator of [[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles]]
* 2006: Fantasy author [[W:Diane Duane|Diane Duane]], writer/[[animator]]/cartoonist/artist [[Scott Shaw!]], and (as a "Special Guest") [[Filk]] [[musician]] [[W:Tom Smith (filker)|Tom Smith]]
* 2007: Television/animation writer [[W:Mark Evanier|Mark Evanier]], comic artist [[Carolyn Kelly]] (of syndicated comic strip ''[[Pogo]]'') and [[voice actor]] [[W:Rob Paulsen|Rob Paulsen]] (''[[Animaniacs]]'', ''[[Pinky and the Brain]]'', ''[[Gummi Bears]]'' and ''Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles'')
* 2008: Animator and [[Disney]] Legend [[W:Floyd Norman|Floyd Norman]]
* 2009: [[Character designer]] and [[storyboard artist]] Ben Balistreri (''[[Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends]]'', ''[[Seaweed the Pelican]]''), [[creator]]/[[producer]] [[W:Bob Boyle (animator)|Bob Boyle]] (''[[Wow Wow Wubbzy]]'' and ''[[Yin Yang Yo!]]'') and cartoonist and artist [[Joe Harris]] (creator of [[Underdog]] and the [[Trix Rabbit]])
* 2010: Author [[W:James Gurney|James Gurney]] (''[[W:Dinotopia|Dinotopia]]'' book series), and [[W:Sesame Street|Sesame Street]] [[puppeteer]]/[[director]] [[W:Jim_Martin_(puppeteer)|Jim Martin]]
* 2011: Artist [[W:Andy Runton|Andy Runton]] ([[Owly]]), and author [[Peter_S._Beagle|Peter S. Beagle]] ([[The Last Unicorn]])
* 2012: Creative Director/art Director/freelance illustrator [[Dev Madan]], animator and comic artist [[Mike Kazaleh]], and Japanese [[fursuiter]] and [[W:Acrobatics|acrobat]] [[Sardyuon]]
* 2013: Fantasy artist and novelist [[Larry Dixon]], author [[W:Mercedes Lackey|Mercedes Lackey]], animation producer/writer/story editor and storyboard artist [[W:Tom Minton|Tom Minton]], and Sardyuon
* 2014: Voice actors [[W:Jim Cummings|Jim Cummings]] (''[[W:Darkwing Duck|Darkwing Duck]]'', ''[[W:Winnie the Pooh|Winnie the Pooh]]'', ''[[W:The Lion King|The Lion King]]'', ''[[W:Baldur's Gate|Baldur's Gate]]'', ''[[W:Sonic_the_Hedgehog_(TV_series)|Sonic the Hedgehog]]'') and [[W:Lee Tockar|Lee Tockar]] (''[[W:My_Little_Pony:_Friendship_Is_Magic|My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic]]'', ''[[w:Yakkity_Yak|Yakkity Yak]]'').
* 2015: Voice actor [[w:Kimlinh Tran|Kimlinh Tran]] and sports [[mascot]] "[[w:The San Diego Chicken|The San Diego Chicken]]"
* 2016: Animation genius [[w:Joaquin Baldwin|Joaquin Baldwin]], voice artist [[w:Trevor Devall|Trevor Devall]] and illustrator/graphic designer [[w:Tracy Butler|Tracy Butler]]
* 2017: Voice actor [[w:Charlie Adler|Charlie Adler]]
* 2018: [http://lensimon.com/wp/ Len Simon], one of the main leads on Anastasia and was promoted to Animation Director in charge of all the character animation on Bartok the Magnificent and Titan AE and [[w:Ursula Vernon|Ursula Vernon]], creator of the "[[lol wut]]" ('''''The Biting Pear of Salamanca'''''), and the [[webcomic]] ''[[Digger]]''.
* 2019: Voice actor Benjamin Diskin, artist [[Steve Gallacci]], and [[eSports]] player [[SonicFox5000]].
* 2020: [[W:VRChat|VRChat]] content creator [[Firr]], [[SueDeer]]
* 2022: French Artist and animator [[W:Kékéflipnote|Kévin "Kékéflipnote" Gemin]], [[SueDeer]]
* 2023: The city of Pittsburgh

==Typical programming==
[[File:Ac2005fursuitparade.jpg|right|thumb|230px|The [[fursuit parade]] at [[Anthrocon 2005]]]]
* [[Opening Ceremonies|Opening]] and [[Closing Ceremonies]]
* [[Dealers' Den]]
* [[Artists' Alley]]
* [[Art Show]]s (General and Mature)
* Art Show Auctions
* [[Charity Auction]] to benefit the year's charity
* [[Masquerade]]
* Stand-up Comedy
* [[UKSH|"Uncle Kage's Story Hour"]]
* [[Fursuit Parade]] and starting in 2022, the Fursuit Block Party
* [[Fursuit Dance Competition]] and [[Floor_Wars|Floor Wars]]
* Art-related, Costumery-related, and other artistic how-to panels, workshops, and demonstrations
* Table-top card and role-playing games
* Video Game Room and Tournaments
* Special-interest, species-related, and lifestyle group panels
* Puppetry Instruction
* Various Social Dances (Electronica/EDM Dances, Fursuit-friendly dances, Era-themed dances, Fandom-related DJ's)
* Musical performances
* [[Internet Room]]
* "[[The Zoo]]", a spacious general social area. (This was deprecated in 2022 in lieu of multiple, smaller breakout Zoo areas.)
[[File:Anthrocon2005dance.jpg|thumb|right|250px|A photo of the [[fursuit dance]] at [[Anthrocon 2005]].]]
* [[Supersponsor Luncheon]]

==Themes==
{| width="100%"
|- valign="top"
||
* 1997: An East Coast Furry Convention
* 1998: Here There Be Dragons
* 1999: Join the Furry Revolution
* 2000: Furries of Myth and Legend
* 2001: Furries in Flight
* 2002: Inventions
* 2003: Creatures of the Night
* 2004: Summer Games
* 2005: Heroes
||
* 2006: Making History
* 2007: Looking to the Future
* 2008: It's a Jungle Out There
* 2009: OMG Aliens!
* 2010: Modern Stone-Age Furries
* 2011: The Anthropomorphic Institute of Magic
* 2012: A Midsummer Night's Dream
* 2013: The Fast and The Furrious
* 2014: Secret Societies
||
* 2015: Viking Invasion!
* 2016: Roaring "Twenty" (20th anniversary)
* 2017: Take Me Out To The Ballgame
* 2018: Movie Monsters
* 2019: Surf Pacific
* 2020: Aesop's Fables; replaced with [[Virtual Anthrocon]]
* 2021: Replaced with [[Virtual Anthrocon]]
* 2022: Aesop's Fables
* 2023: Anthropolis: We Built This City
* 2024: AnthroCoaster!
|}

==Charities==

Every year, Anthrocon chooses a local animal-related charity to be the beneficiary of its [[charity auction]].<ref>[http://www.anthrocon.org/history Charity history] on Anthrocon's website. Retrieved June 19, 2012.</ref>

{| width="100%"
|- valign="top"
||
* 1997: [[Therapy Dogs]] ($2,200)
* 1998: [[Whiskers]] ($3,092)
* 1999: [[Great Valley Nature Center]] ($3.6K)
* 2000: [[National Greyhound Adoption Program]]: ($6.5K)
* 2001: [[Reins of Life]] ($7,273)
* 2002: [[Canine Partners for Life]] ($13,280)
* 2003: [[Support Our Shelters]] ($8,348)
* 2004: [[Forgotten Felines & Fidos]] ($7.2K)
* 2005: [http://www.gpsar.org/ Greater Philadelphia Search and Rescue] ($6,470)
||
* 2006: [http://www.wildanimal.org/ Western Pennsylvania National Wild Animal Orphanage] ($8,407)
* 2007: [http://www.animal-friends.org/ Animal Friends] ($7,608)
* 2008: [http://pages.prodigy.net/zazubird/ppr.htm Pittsburgh Parrot Rescue] ($13,154)
* 2009: [http://www.animalrescue.org/ Animal Rescue League Wildlife Rehabilitation Center] ($8,992)
* 2010: [http://www.fayettefriendsofanimals.net/ Fayette Friends of Animals] ($12,849)
* 2011: [http://www.toonseum.org/ Toonseum] ($11,522)
* 2012: [http://www.hellobully.com/ Hello Bully] ($20,656)
* 2013: [http://equineangelsrescue.com/ Equine Angels Rescue] ($31,255)
* 2014: [http://aviary.org/ The National Aviary] ($32,372)
||
* 2015: [https://www.wpahumane.org/ Western Pennsylvania Humane Society] ($35,910)
* 2016: [http://www.pittsburghzoo.org/ Pittsburgh Zoo] ($30,880)
* 2017: [http://www.hopehavenfarm.org/ Hope Haven Farm Sanctuary] ($37,598)
* 2018: [https://www.southhillspetrescue.org/ South Hills Pet Rescue] ($42,051)
* 2019: [https://www.pearlparrots.com/ PEARL Parrot Rescue] ($46,440)
* 2020: [https://www.wildlifeworksinc.org/ Wildlife Works, Inc.] (Undisclosed)
* 2021: [https://www.wildlifeworksinc.org/ Wildlife Works, Inc.] ($20,000+)
* 2022: [https://www.wildlifeworksinc.org/ Wildlife Works, Inc.] ($41,553)
* 2023: [https://www.rabbitwranglers.org/ Rabbit Wranglers] ($52,000)
|}

==Attendance==

AC's attendance has increased yearly, except for [[Anthrocon 2005|AC 2005]]. Membership in the [[fursuit parade]] has increased as well, rising to 5.9% of members in 2005 to a peak of 28.7% in 2016.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! scope="col" | Convention year
! scope="col" | Attendance
! scope="col" | Percentage change
! scope="col" | Fursuiters in fursuit parade
! scope="col" | Percentage change
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Albany AnthroCon 1997]]
| 500*
| N/A
| Unknownº
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Albany AnthroCon 1998]]
| 600*
| 20%
| Unknown
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 1999]]
| 845
| 40.8%
| Unknown
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2000]]
| 1,128
| 33.4%
| Unknown
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2001]]
| 1,457
| 29.2%
| Unknown
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2002]]
| 1,648
| 13.1%
| Unknown
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2003]]
| 1,949
| 18.2%
| Unknown
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2004]]
| 2,404
| 23.3%
| Unknown
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2005]]
| 2,370
| -1.4%
| 140
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2006]]
| 2,489
| 5%
| 191
| 36.4%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2007]]
| 2,849
| 14.5%
| 353
| 84.8%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2008]]
| 3,390
| 19%
| 453
| 28.3%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2009]]
| 3,777
| 11.4%
| 640
| 41.3%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2010]]
| 4,238
| 12.2%
| 713
| 11.4%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2011]]
| 4,402
| 3.8%
| 854
| 19.8%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2012]]
| 5,179
| 17.7%
| 1,044
| 22.2%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2013]]
| 5,577
| 7.68%
| 1,300
| 24.5%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2014]]
| 5,861
| 5.09%
| 1,326
| 2%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2015]]
| 6,386
| 9.01%
| 1,460
| 10.11%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2016]]
| 7,310
| 14.44%
| 2,100
| 43.34%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2017]]
| 7,554
| 3.33%
| 1,890
| -10.00%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2018]]
| 8,407
| 11.29%
| 1,980
| 4.76%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2019]]
| 9,358
| 11.31%
| 2,132
| 7.67%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2020]]
|6,136**
| N/A
|2 (staff)
| N/A
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2022]]
| 9,702
| 3.68%
| 2,562
| 20.17%
|-
! scope="row" style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;" | [[Anthrocon 2023]]
| 13,644
| 40.63%
| 3,127
| 22.05%
|}
(*)Estimated

(**)Unique VRChat attendees

ºAnthrocon didn't keep records on the number of fursuiters in the fursuit parade until 2005.

== Incorporation and Trademarks ==

Anthrocon, Inc. was incorporated as a non-profit organization on June 25, 1998, and registered as a [[W:501(c)|501(c)(7) social and recreation club]] in the state of Pennsylvania (entity [http://www.corporations.state.pa.us/corp/soskb/Corp.asp?1738650 2823650]). This classification differs from the 501(c)(3) status of [[Midwest Furry Fandom]] and [[Anthropomorphic Arts and Education]], most notably, donations are not tax-deductible to their donors, but in return, the company has more flexibility about its operations, and more leeway to restrict access to non-members, since it's not a club.

Applications to register the word "Anthrocon" and the [[:Image:Anthrocon.gif|'Anthrocon paw']] as US [[Wikipedia:trademark|trademarks]] were filed on [http://tarr.uspto.gov/servlet/tarr?regser=serial&entry=77001861 September 18] and [http://tarr.uspto.gov/servlet/tarr?regser=serial&entry=77042065 November 12, 2006]. According to these filings, the word "Anthrocon" was first used on February 1, 1997, while the paw logo was used from June 30, 1998, onwards.

== Trivia ==

* The choice of Toonseum was made with consultation of the furry community via [http://anthrocon.livejournal.com/827727.html a LiveJournal post by] [[Rigel]]. It has so far been the only (fandom-approved) exception to the "animal-related" charity rule.

== See also ==

* [[W:Anthrocon|Anthrocon]] on [[Wikipedia]]
* [[:Category:Anthrocon photographs|Anthrocon photographs on WikiFur]]
* [[:Category:Anthrocon guests of honor|Anthrocon guests of honor]]
* [[:Category:Anthrocon staff|Anthrocon staff]]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==
{{FlayrahTag|Anthrocon}}
* [http://www.facebook.com/Anthrocon/ Anthrocon] on [[Facebook]]
* [http://www.facebook.com/groups/Anthrocon/?source_id=103654229736847 Anthrocon] group on Facebook
* [http://twitter.com/anthrocon Anthrocon] on [[Twitter]]
* [http://www.youtube.com/user/anthrocon Anthrocon] on [[Youtube]]
* [https://mastodon.furrycon.social/@anthrocon Anthrocon] on [[Mastodon]]
* [https://t.me/anthrocon Announcement Channel] on [[Telegram]]

=== Media ===

* [https://www.wtae.com/article/pittsburgh-economy-out-millions-because-of-canceled-events/35907481 ''Pittsburgh economy out millions because of canceled events''] article on [https://www.wtae.com/ Pittsburgh's Action News 4]

* {{con resources}}

{{Conventions}}
{{wikipedia|Anthrocon}}
[[Category:Conventions]]
[[Category:Anthrocon]]
[[Category:Pennsylvania]]
[[Category:1997 births]]
{{Featured article}}

[[cs:Anthrocon]]
[[de:Anthrocon]]
[[es:Anthrocon]]
[[fi:Anthrocon]]
[[fr:Anthrocon]]
[[ja:Anthrocon]]
[[it:Anthrocon]]
[[no:Anthrocon]]
[[pl:Anthrocon]]
[[ru:Anthrocon]]
[[sv:Anthrocon]]
[[zh:Anthrocon]]

MyFursona

2024-02-25T07:15:10Z

Lumin City: Reworded the Temporary Closing section along with replacing the dead link with an archived one.

{{time}}
{{Infobox website
| title = MyFursona
| image = [[Image:MyFursonaLogo.jpg|right|250px]]
| author = '''Site Founder:''' KovuTheHusky
* '''Coders''': [[NightWolf1298|NightWolf]], KovuTheHusky, [[xcxeon]]
* '''Community Officers''': [[Drakky]]
* '''IRC Manager''': [[Shiek]]
* '''Helpdesk Manager''': [[Radric]]
| url = http://www.myfursona.com/
*'''Forums''': http://www.myfursona.net/
*'''Facebook''': http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=9467751549
*'''LiveJournal''': http://community.livejournal.com/myfursona/
*'''Twitter''': http://www.twitter.com/myfursona
*'''Last.fm''': http://last.fm/group/MyFursona
*'''Steam''': http://steamcommunity.com/groups/myfursona
| status =
| began = September 2007
| ended = March 2011
| genre = Social networking
* '''Taglines''':
*''"A place for furs!"'' (September 2007-September 2008)
*''"Go furpile!"'' (September 2008-present)
| rating = {{Rating-14-button}}
}}
'''MyFursona''' was a [[furry]] social networking site founded by [[KovuTheHusky]] in September 2007. It aimed to be a community hub from which users can maintain both their online and offline furry lifestyles. MyFursona is notable in being the only furry social network to hold [[furmeet]]s, as well as being completely coded from scratch, rather than using pre-existing software or a hosting website. As of May 2009 there were over 5,000 users registered on MyFursona<ref>[http://www.myfursona.com/statistics MyFursona statistics]</ref>. However, the site was closed in 2011 due to staffing issues.

== History ==

MyFursona was founded in September 2007 by KovuTheHusky - a young programmer who has produced a range of different applications and websites in his spare time. This version (dubbed MyFursona Beta) was maintained solely by Kovu, over the next few months volunteer staff came on board; including [[Xerxes Qados|Xerxes]], who initially came on as [[wikipedia:Adobe Flash|Flash]] development but later as community control, xcxeon as security coder and Tori Belliachi as head of graphic design.

Several additional staff members were added subsequent to this, but were noted as "moderators" as opposed to "administrators" to distinguish them from the four "executive" board members (whose usernames are preceded by an @ symbol when displayed on the site). In November of 2008, [[NightWolf1298|NightWolf]] was promoted to administrator status, making him the fifth board member.

The name is possibly derived from [[MySpace]] and [[wikipedia:The Knack|The Knack]] single, [[wikipedia:My Sharona|My Sharona]]; the similarity between the song and the site's name has previously provoked discussion<ref>[http://www.myfursona.net/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=34 "Here I am, in MyFursona."] thread on the MyFursona forum; posted by [[Authorgunner]]. Retrieved April 4, 2008.</ref>.

On March 1 2008, the new version of the site came online, named MyFursona RC1. It sported a new design - which was praised by the site's community<ref>[http://www.myfursona.com/update/32 "Release candidate is live!"] news post by KovuTheHusky. Retrieved April 4, 2008.</ref> and was for the most part completely re-coded from the last version. Over the following month many new features were added, including a site wide search feature - provoking one user to humorously deem it "better than [[Fur Affinity]]".

Planned additions include an integrated forum, groups and an international [[furmeet]] and [[convention]] organization model — which is planned to be a major identifying feature of MyFursona and its aim to bring the [[furry]] community together.

Head of design from 2007 until 2009 [[Alexander Grey]] announced his resignation on April 1, 2009, due to personal commitments. [[Xerxes Qados]] followed soon after, leaving his post as community relations administrator in May, 2009.

=== April-May 2008 suspension/downtime ===

On the weekend of April 26-28, 2008, a massive influx of new user registrations was brought on by the plugging of profiles belonging to various well-known furs on sites such as Fur Affinity. Approximately 400 to 500 new registrations were made, a third of the user base before the weekend; this high volume of users was initially suspected to have caused downtime of the website on April 28.

It was later determined to be caused by KovuTheHusky's side project, [[Yiffbase]], a Google-like search engine for furry art. It had been set up to index sites such as [[Yiffstar]] and [[Fur Affinity]] by running a script from the MyFursona server, but due to a bug in its code it requested 400,000 pages in a short period of time. KovuTheHusky's host noticed this and suspended his network of sites temporarily, including MyFursona.

The site returned online at 9-pm EST on April the 28th, however was brought offline again due to people exploiting a previously unknown security hole. They were later found to originate from [[anonymous|not420chan]]<ref>[http://not420chan.com/i/res/131712.html MyFursona thread] on [[anonymous|not420chan]], detailing methods to attack the website. Retrieved May 5, 2008.</ref>. The site was shut down by administrators less than an hour after the first attack. It came back online on May 5, however many features were disabled.

=== MyFursona Eden ===
[[Image:MyFursonaEdenLogo.jpg|right|250px]]
MyFursona's first primary release version - dubbed ''Eden'' - is currently in the works, bringing with it numerous new and requested features and a complete UI and branding overhaul. Eden has been available to all MyFursona users since it's inception and can be publicly viewed, tested and used by any MyFursona user. Eden already includes a number of features not available on the main MyFursona website.

The reason for the name was described as follows:

{{q|The version is named after the [[wikipedia:Garden of Eden|Garden of Eden]], a place in the [[wikipedia:Bible|Bible]] described as a perfect paradise where man and beast lived together in harmony. Also the animals could talk, which is awesome.}}

Eden changes the site's original slogan of "A Place For Furs" (a play on MySpace's "A Place For Friends") to "Go Furpile!", which was chosen because KovuTheHusky began ending several announcements of new features or bug fixes with this phrase.

=== Temporary closing ===

On October 2010, Kovu announced that MyFursona would be temporarily closed in March 2011 due to the absence of Alex Grey and Xerxes Qados as well as lack of personal time.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20101028053515/https://myfursona.com/letter "MyFursona is closing its doors."] statement by [[KovuTheHusky]]. Archived from "http://www.myfursona.com/letter" by the Wayback Machine on October 28, 2010. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> On December 1, 2010, sign-ups were removed , then on January 1, 2011, logging in, making the site read-only, and sometime the following March the website.{{when}} Alex Grey announced he would return to working on MyFursona, following the closure of [[FurteanTimes.com]].<ref>[http://twitter.com/verygrey/statuses/29122831077 A tweet] directed at [[KovuTheHusky]], posted October 29, 2010.</ref>

On January 7, 2013, the MyFursona Twitter account mentioned that the site relaunch project is not dead, just inactive.<ref>[https://twitter.com/MyFursona/status/288508552555937793 A tweet] directed at [https://twitter.com/Alex_Ezell Alex Ezell] posted January 7, 2013.</ref>

== Events ==

One of MyFursona's defining features is that it hosts a number of events outside of the site itself.

=== MyFurmeet ===

The first MyFurmeet was held on May 31, 2008, in [[wikipedia:Coram, New York|Coram, New York]]. There was a total attendance of 15 people.<ref>[http://www.myfursona.com/blog/1632 "May 2008 MyFurmeet"] posted by [[KovuTheHusky]] on June 1, 2008. Retrieved June 16, 2008.</ref>

=== Fursonal Experience ===

'''Fursonal Experience''' was a convention, organized and "branded" by [[MyFursona]], originally proposed for May 2009 in [[wikipedia:Long Island|Long Island, New York]], U.S.A.<ref>[http://www.myfursona.net/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=417 MyFursona Presents Fursonal Experience 2009]. July 4, 2008 thread by [[Xerxes Qados|Xerxes]] on MyFursona forum. Retrieved September 3, 2008. No longer accessible as of July 6, 2011.</ref>{{dead link}}

MyFursona never obtained a contract for convention space nor opened a website for registrations for an event. In February 2011, the MyFursona forums were removed to support a site upgrade, scheduled for June 2011.<ref>[http://myfursona.com/ MyFursona note on services outage and coming new site] Retrieved July 6, 2011</ref> As of July 6, 2011, the new website has not yet opened, and no announcements of a continuing the planning process for Fursonal Experience have been made.

== Mascot ==

MyFursona's mascot is a [[fox]] by the name of Orson<ref>[http://www.myfursona.com/update/42 "Say hello to Orson the Fox!"] News post by Xerxes on April 4, 2008. Retrieved May 9, 2008.</ref>, who was drawn by [[Kira T. Wulfe|Kira]] specifically for the website. A more fleshed-out redesign by [[Laura Whent]] debuted on November 28, 2008<ref>[http://www.myfursona.com/image/8272 "This is MyFursona" by Orson] First upload of the new Orson artwork.</ref>. In keeping with the site's community-centric approach, the name was chosen by the users - the name Orson was first suggested by [[Warszawa]].<ref>[http://www.myfursona.com/update/35 "Community Update #1"]. Posted by Xerxes on March 26, 2008. Retrieved May 9, 2008.</ref><ref>[http://www.myfursona.com/update/41 "Community Update #2"] Posted by Xerxes on April 3, 2008. Retrieved May 9, 2008.</ref>.

== References ==
<references />

[[Category:Social networking websites]]
[[Category:2007 births]]
[[Category:2011 deaths]]

[[ru:MyFursona]]
[[sv:MyFursona]]

Yiffbase

2024-02-25T07:00:51Z

Lumin City: Added several templates, references and rewrote the article.

{{Cleanup}}
{{Unreferenced}}
{{Time}}
{{Cleanup-context}}
{{Rating-nc17-button2}}
'''Yiffbase''' was a website founded by [[KovuTheHusky]] in March 2008.{{fact}} It was designed to be a large database of furry artwork, including [[NSFW art]].{{fact}} Art is automatically added to the database by a web crawler programmed in C#. The first version of the crawler was designed without a delay and led to [[MyFursona|MyFursona's]] downtime in April.{{fact}} It went through in its alpha stage,{{when}} but was last active on January 2014,<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20140107165558/http://yiffbase.com/ "https://web.archive.org/web/20140107165558/http://yiffbase.com/"] Archived by the Wayback Machine on January 07, 2014. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> since being shut down.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20141218114802/http://yiffbase.com/ "https://web.archive.org/web/20141218114802/http://yiffbase.com/"] Archived by the Wayback Machine on December 20, 2014. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

== References ==
<references/>

[[Category:2008 births]]
[[Category:Mature art archives]]

{{Stub}}

KovuTheHusky

2024-02-25T06:54:57Z

Lumin City: /* References */ Removed the capslock from the end reference tag.

{{wikify}}
{{unref}}
{{Infobox person
| name = KovuTheHusky
| realname = Kevin Breslin<ref>[https://www.facebook.com/kovuthehusky/about KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[Facebook]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref>
| othernames = Kovu
| image = [[File:KovuTheHusky Fursuit.jpg|200px]]
| caption = Kovu's first Fursuit photo
| born = November 17, 1990
| residence = [[W:New York City|New York, New York]], USA
| profession = [[Con Chair]], [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
| species = [[Siberian Husky]]
| gohonor =
| url =
}}
'''KovuTheHusky''' (born November 19, 1990)<ref>[http://kovuthehusky.livejournal.com/profile KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[LiveJournal]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref>, is a [[gay]] [[male]] [[Fursuiter]] and [[staff|convention staff]] who lives in [[W:New York City|New York, New York]], USA. His husband is [[NightWolf1298]]{{fact}} and his boyfriend is [[camwuff]].{{fact}}

== Fandom involvement ==

KovuTheHusky has been a member of the [[furry fandom]] since February 2006.{{fact}} He is the founder and administrator of [[MyFursona]], a [[W:Social network|social networking]] website for members of the fandom,{{fact}} and [[Yiffbase]], a website (and an associated C# based web crawler) that indexes [[furry art]] from other websites.{{fact}} He is the assistant director of the [[Charity]] department at [[Furpocalypse]]{{fact}} and worked{{when}} in the [[Dealers Den]]/[[Artists Alley]] department at [[Pine Fur Con]] until it ended in 2019.{{fact}} In October 2022, he founded [[Furcationland]], the spiritual successor to Pine Fur Con and is the current [[con chair]].<ref>[https://ghostarchive.org/archive/siIJo "https://twitter.com/furcationland/status/1578166848830328832"] post on @Furcationland's [[Twitter]] account. Posted October 6, 2022. Retrieved February 25, 2024. "the board of directors, including @KovuTheHusky and @CodexDerg, our organization's Chair and Vice Chair!"</ref>

=== Fursona ===
His first [[fursona]] was a grey and white [[Siberian Husky]] made in 2010 named Kovu.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150429223753/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/4772416/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/4772416/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted November 10, 2010. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> In 2011, his Fursona's coat was changed to cyan and green<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150423173354/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/6267121/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/6267121/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted August 7, 2011. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> and is his current Fursona. On December 20, 2019, he posted a reference sheet of Kovu, drawn by [[Furry artist]] [[NeonSlushie]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20240225044448/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/34296524/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/34296524/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted December 20, 2019. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
His [[Fursuit]] was made by [[MoreFurLess]], first tweeting his Fursuit on May 13, 2020 to his [[Twitter]] account.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20200515030842/https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260404989647826945 "https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260314528304164864"] post on @KovuTheHusky's [[Twitter]] account. Posted May 13, 2020. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Convention Attendance ===

* [[Condition]] - 2010
* [[FurFright]] - 2010, 2012, 2013
* [[Midwest FurFest]] - 2010, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[Furnal Equinox]] - 2011
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2011, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022**, 2023**
* [[Pine Fur Con]] - 2019
* [[New Year's Furry Ball]] - 2019, 2021, 2022
* [[Anthro New England]] - 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024
* [[Furry Fiesta]] - 2020, 2022
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2020, 2022
* [[Megaplex]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[IndyFurCon]] - 2021
* [[Furry Migration]] - 2021
* [[Motor City Furry Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Biggest Little Fur Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Sin City Murr Con]] - 2022
* [[Blue Ridge Furfare]] - 2022
* [[Furry Weekend Atlanta]] - 2022
* [[DenFur]] - 2022
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023*
* [[BabyFur Con]] - 2023
(*) Con Chair
(**) Con Staff

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==
{{Contributor}}
* [https://kovu.dog kovu.dog] - KovuTheHusky's official website
* [https://kovuthehusky.deviantart.com KovuTheHusky] on [[deviantART]]
* [https://furaffinity.net/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Fur Affinity]]
* [https://inkbunny.net/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Inkbunny]]
* [https://kovuthehusky.sofurry.com KovuTheHusky] on [[SoFurry]]
* [https://facebook.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Facebook]]
* [https://tiktok.com/@kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[TikTok]]
* [https://twitter.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Twitter]]
* [https://youtube.com/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[YouTube]]

{{person-stub}}

[[Category:1990 births]]
[[Category:Furpocalypse staff]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:Husky characters]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]

KovuTheHusky

2024-02-25T06:36:24Z

Lumin City: Removed spaces in Kovu's name in his infobox.

{{wikify}}
{{unref}}
{{Infobox person
| name = KovuTheHusky
| realname = Kevin Breslin<ref>[https://www.facebook.com/kovuthehusky/about KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[Facebook]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref>
| othernames = Kovu
| image = [[File:KovuTheHusky Fursuit.jpg|200px]]
| caption = Kovu's first Fursuit photo
| born = November 17, 1990
| residence = [[W:New York City|New York, New York]], USA
| profession = [[Con Chair]], [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
| species = [[Siberian Husky]]
| gohonor =
| url =
}}
'''KovuTheHusky''' (born November 19, 1990)<ref>[http://kovuthehusky.livejournal.com/profile KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[LiveJournal]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref>, is a [[gay]] [[male]] [[Fursuiter]] and [[staff|convention staff]] who lives in [[W:New York City|New York, New York]], USA. His husband is [[NightWolf1298]]{{fact}} and his boyfriend is [[camwuff]].{{fact}}

== Fandom involvement ==

KovuTheHusky has been a member of the [[furry fandom]] since February 2006.{{fact}} He is the founder and administrator of [[MyFursona]], a [[W:Social network|social networking]] website for members of the fandom,{{fact}} and [[Yiffbase]], a website (and an associated C# based web crawler) that indexes [[furry art]] from other websites.{{fact}} He is the assistant director of the [[Charity]] department at [[Furpocalypse]]{{fact}} and worked{{when}} in the [[Dealers Den]]/[[Artists Alley]] department at [[Pine Fur Con]] until it ended in 2019.{{fact}} In October 2022, he founded [[Furcationland]], the spiritual successor to Pine Fur Con and is the current [[con chair]].<ref>[https://ghostarchive.org/archive/siIJo "https://twitter.com/furcationland/status/1578166848830328832"] post on @Furcationland's [[Twitter]] account. Posted October 6, 2022. Retrieved February 25, 2024. "the board of directors, including @KovuTheHusky and @CodexDerg, our organization's Chair and Vice Chair!"</ref>

=== Fursona ===
His first [[fursona]] was a grey and white [[Siberian Husky]] made in 2010 named Kovu.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150429223753/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/4772416/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/4772416/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted November 10, 2010. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> In 2011, his Fursona's coat was changed to cyan and green<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150423173354/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/6267121/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/6267121/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted August 7, 2011. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> and is his current Fursona. On December 20, 2019, he posted a reference sheet of Kovu, drawn by [[Furry artist]] [[NeonSlushie]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20240225044448/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/34296524/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/34296524/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted December 20, 2019. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
His [[Fursuit]] was made by [[MoreFurLess]], first tweeting his Fursuit on May 13, 2020 to his [[Twitter]] account.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20200515030842/https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260404989647826945 "https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260314528304164864"] post on @KovuTheHusky's [[Twitter]] account. Posted May 13, 2020. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Convention Attendance ===

* [[Condition]] - 2010
* [[FurFright]] - 2010, 2012, 2013
* [[Midwest FurFest]] - 2010, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[Furnal Equinox]] - 2011
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2011, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022**, 2023**
* [[Pine Fur Con]] - 2019
* [[New Year's Furry Ball]] - 2019, 2021, 2022
* [[Anthro New England]] - 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024
* [[Furry Fiesta]] - 2020, 2022
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2020, 2022
* [[Megaplex]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[IndyFurCon]] - 2021
* [[Furry Migration]] - 2021
* [[Motor City Furry Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Biggest Little Fur Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Sin City Murr Con]] - 2022
* [[Blue Ridge Furfare]] - 2022
* [[Furry Weekend Atlanta]] - 2022
* [[DenFur]] - 2022
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023*
* [[BabyFur Con]] - 2023
(*) Con Chair
(**) Con Staff

== References ==
<REFERENCES/>

== External links ==
{{Contributor}}
* [https://kovu.dog kovu.dog] - KovuTheHusky's official website
* [https://kovuthehusky.deviantart.com KovuTheHusky] on [[deviantART]]
* [https://furaffinity.net/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Fur Affinity]]
* [https://inkbunny.net/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Inkbunny]]
* [https://kovuthehusky.sofurry.com KovuTheHusky] on [[SoFurry]]
* [https://facebook.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Facebook]]
* [https://tiktok.com/@kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[TikTok]]
* [https://twitter.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Twitter]]
* [https://youtube.com/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[YouTube]]

{{person-stub}}

[[Category:1990 births]]
[[Category:Furpocalypse staff]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:Husky characters]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]

KovuTheHusky

2024-02-25T06:34:24Z

Lumin City: Added an info box, expanded on their Fandom Involvement, including adding their Fursona and Fursuit.

{{wikify}}
{{unref}}
{{Infobox person
| name = Kovu The Husky
| realname = Kevin Breslin<ref>[https://www.facebook.com/kovuthehusky/about KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[Facebook]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref>
| othernames = Kovu
| image = [[File:KovuTheHusky Fursuit.jpg|200px]]
| caption = Kovu's first Fursuit photo
| born = November 17, 1990
| residence = [[W:New York City|New York, New York]], USA
| profession = [[Con Chair]], [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
| species = [[Siberian Husky]]
| gohonor =
| url =
}}
'''KovuTheHusky''' (born November 19, 1990)<ref>[http://kovuthehusky.livejournal.com/profile KovuTheHusky's profile] on [[LiveJournal]]. Retrieved April 17, 2014.</ref>, is a [[gay]] [[male]] [[Fursuiter]] and [[staff|convention staff]] who lives in [[W:New York City|New York, New York]], USA. His husband is [[NightWolf1298]]{{fact}} and his boyfriend is [[camwuff]].{{fact}}

== Fandom involvement ==

KovuTheHusky has been a member of the [[furry fandom]] since February 2006.{{fact}} He is the founder and administrator of [[MyFursona]], a [[W:Social network|social networking]] website for members of the fandom,{{fact}} and [[Yiffbase]], a website (and an associated C# based web crawler) that indexes [[furry art]] from other websites.{{fact}} He is the assistant director of the [[Charity]] department at [[Furpocalypse]]{{fact}} and worked{{when}} in the [[Dealers Den]]/[[Artists Alley]] department at [[Pine Fur Con]] until it ended in 2019.{{fact}} In October 2022, he founded [[Furcationland]], the spiritual successor to Pine Fur Con and is the current [[con chair]].<ref>[https://ghostarchive.org/archive/siIJo "https://twitter.com/furcationland/status/1578166848830328832"] post on @Furcationland's [[Twitter]] account. Posted October 6, 2022. Retrieved February 25, 2024. "the board of directors, including @KovuTheHusky and @CodexDerg, our organization's Chair and Vice Chair!"</ref>

=== Fursona ===
His first [[fursona]] was a grey and white [[Siberian Husky]] made in 2010 named Kovu.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150429223753/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/4772416/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/4772416/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted November 10, 2010. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> In 2011, his Fursona's coat was changed to cyan and green<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150423173354/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/6267121/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/6267121/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted August 7, 2011. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref> and is his current Fursona. On December 20, 2019, he posted a reference sheet of Kovu, drawn by [[Furry artist]] [[NeonSlushie]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20240225044448/https://www.furaffinity.net/view/34296524/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/34296524/"] post by KovuTheHusky on [[FurAffinity]]. Posted December 20, 2019. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
His [[Fursuit]] was made by [[MoreFurLess]], first tweeting his Fursuit on May 13, 2020 to his [[Twitter]] account.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20200515030842/https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260404989647826945 "https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260314528304164864"] post on @KovuTheHusky's [[Twitter]] account. Posted May 13, 2020. Retrieved February 25, 2024.</ref>

=== Convention Attendance ===

* [[Condition]] - 2010
* [[FurFright]] - 2010, 2012, 2013
* [[Midwest FurFest]] - 2010, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[Furnal Equinox]] - 2011
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2011, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022**, 2023**
* [[Pine Fur Con]] - 2019
* [[New Year's Furry Ball]] - 2019, 2021, 2022
* [[Anthro New England]] - 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024
* [[Furry Fiesta]] - 2020, 2022
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2020, 2022
* [[Megaplex]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023
* [[IndyFurCon]] - 2021
* [[Furry Migration]] - 2021
* [[Motor City Furry Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Biggest Little Fur Con]] - 2021, 2022
* [[Sin City Murr Con]] - 2022
* [[Blue Ridge Furfare]] - 2022
* [[Furry Weekend Atlanta]] - 2022
* [[DenFur]] - 2022
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023*
* [[BabyFur Con]] - 2023
(*) Con Chair
(**) Con Staff

== References ==
<REFERENCES/>

== External links ==
{{Contributor}}
* [https://kovu.dog kovu.dog] - KovuTheHusky's official website
* [https://kovuthehusky.deviantart.com KovuTheHusky] on [[deviantART]]
* [https://furaffinity.net/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Fur Affinity]]
* [https://inkbunny.net/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Inkbunny]]
* [https://kovuthehusky.sofurry.com KovuTheHusky] on [[SoFurry]]
* [https://facebook.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Facebook]]
* [https://tiktok.com/@kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[TikTok]]
* [https://twitter.com/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[Twitter]]
* [https://youtube.com/user/kovuthehusky KovuTheHusky] on [[YouTube]]

{{person-stub}}

[[Category:1990 births]]
[[Category:Furpocalypse staff]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:Husky characters]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]

Helpstaff

2024-02-25T06:31:24Z

Lumin City: Added a stub template.

'''Helpstaff''', also known as a '''Staff member''' or just '''Staff''', are considered, in the context of the [[furry fandom]], both [[MU*]]'s and [[furry convention]] helpers.

== MU* staff ==

MU*' staff usually haven't got the powers of a [[wizard]], but they can often be knowledgeable and helpful. They generally act as information sources and teachers, though on [[role-playing]] (RP) MU*'s, some may also act in the capacity of [[GM]]s.

Some possible special abilities which helpstaff may enjoy include:

* [[Character]] creation
* Allowing [[Guest|guests]] to leave specially confined areas
* Communication via staff-specific channels in various chat programs
* Special item creation (usually "statted" items used in RP) or extra point awards
* License to judge some or all role-playing scenes which may occur on the MU*

These abilities and others are typically privileges, not always granted to a particular staffer, and not always even available to be granted.

== Convention staff ==

Staff members' role in furry conventions is to run errands and jobs which are required for the conventions to operate sustainably. Staff is also a term to simply describe workers at any sort of establishment, furry conventions included.

[[Category:Multiplayer world terms]]
{{Convention terms}}
[[Category:Convention terms]]

{{stub}}

Male

2024-02-25T06:23:49Z

Lumin City: Added a period to the end of the lead sentence.

{{wikify}}
{{context}}
[[File:Man front view.png|right|thumb|Male, human]]
[[File:Barbary Lion.jpg|right|thumb|Male, furry ([[anthro]])]]
:''"Man" redirects here. For the [[species]], see [[human]].''
A '''male''' (♂. [[W:Latin|Latin]] '''masculus''', diminutive form of '''mas'''), is the [[W:Sex|sex]] of an [[W:Organism|organism]], or a part of an organism, which produces '''spermatozoon''' or '''spermatium''' ([[W:Sperm|Sperm]]). Most male [[mammal]]s, including male [[humans]], have a [[W:Y chromosome|Y chromosome]].

== Males and furry ==
=== Fandom ===

In 1998, the non-scientific survey ''[[The Sociology of Furry Fandom]]'' by [[David J. Rust]], indicated that male ([[furry fan|fan]]s and [[artist]]s) were the majority within the [[furry fandom]]; A survey of 350 [[furries]] found that males comprised 85% of the community, as compared to a 2005 U.S. Census report of 49% in the U.S. as a whole <ref>[http://www.visi.com/~phantos/furrysoc.html ''The Sociology of Furry Fandom]'' by [[David J. Rust]]. Retrieved ?.</ref> <ref>[http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/ACSSAFFFacts?_submenuId=factsheet_1&_sse=on 2005 American Community Survey Data Profile Highlights]. Retrieved ?.</ref>.

In virtual communities, however, there appears to be a lesser percentage of male participants, as many males assume female [[character]]s and [[fursona]]s.

==References==
<references />

== See also ==

* [[W:Male|Male]] on [[Wikipedia]]
* [[Female]]
* [[Transgender]]

{{term-stub}}

[[Category:Terms]]
[[Category:Sociology]]
[[ja:オスケモ]]
[[ru:Самец]]

Male

2024-02-25T06:23:07Z

Lumin City: /* Fandom */ Removed the extra ending square bracket.

{{wikify}}
{{context}}
[[File:Man front view.png|right|thumb|Male, human]]
[[File:Barbary Lion.jpg|right|thumb|Male, furry ([[anthro]])]]
:''"Man" redirects here. For the [[species]], see [[human]].''
A '''male''' (♂. [[W:Latin|Latin]] '''masculus''', diminutive form of '''mas'''), is the [[W:Sex|sex]] of an [[W:Organism|organism]], or a part of an organism, which produces '''spermatozoon''' or '''spermatium''' ([[W:Sperm|Sperm]]). Most male [[mammal]]s, including male [[humans]], have a [[W:Y chromosome|Y chromosome]]

== Males and furry ==
=== Fandom ===

In 1998, the non-scientific survey ''[[The Sociology of Furry Fandom]]'' by [[David J. Rust]], indicated that male ([[furry fan|fan]]s and [[artist]]s) were the majority within the [[furry fandom]]; A survey of 350 [[furries]] found that males comprised 85% of the community, as compared to a 2005 U.S. Census report of 49% in the U.S. as a whole <ref>[http://www.visi.com/~phantos/furrysoc.html ''The Sociology of Furry Fandom]'' by [[David J. Rust]]. Retrieved ?.</ref> <ref>[http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/ACSSAFFFacts?_submenuId=factsheet_1&_sse=on 2005 American Community Survey Data Profile Highlights]. Retrieved ?.</ref>.

In virtual communities, however, there appears to be a lesser percentage of male participants, as many males assume female [[character]]s and [[fursona]]s.

==References==
<references />

== See also ==

* [[W:Male|Male]] on [[Wikipedia]]
* [[Female]]
* [[Transgender]]

{{term-stub}}

[[Category:Terms]]
[[Category:Sociology]]
[[ja:オスケモ]]
[[ru:Самец]]

Template:Controversial

2024-02-25T06:17:39Z

Lumin City: Fixed a spelling error.

{{ambox
|background = #FAF1D1
|color = #9E4248
|icon = Stop_hand.png
|primary = This article contains controversial issues, some of which have reached community consensus and some of which may be [[WikiFur:NPOV_dispute{{!}}disputed]].
|secondary = Please check the [[:{{NAMESPACE}} talk:{{PAGENAME}}{{!}}talk page]] discussion before making substantial changes.
}}<noinclude>
[[Category:Content warning tags|{{PAGENAME}}]]
</noinclude>

Christine Weston Chandler

2024-02-25T06:09:00Z

Lumin City: While Chris Chan's character is based off of Sonic The Hedgehog, I don't believe they're a Furry due to not having interacted with the fandom and the article should be deleted.

{{Delete}}
{{unreferenced}}
[[File:CWCSonichu.jpg|thumb|right|100px|Chandler's [[fursona]], Chris-chan Sonichu]]
'''Christine Weston Chandler''', most commonly known as '''Chris Chan''' (also known as '''Christian Weston Chandler'''; born 24 February 1982)<ref name="Twitter">[https://twitter.com/CWCSonichu @CWCSonichu] on [[Twitter]]. Retrieved November 14, 2017.</ref> is a [[furry artist]] and [[Furry lifestyler|lifestyler]] who lives in [[W:Ruckersville, Virginia|Ruckersville, Virginia]], USA.<ref name="Twitter"/>

== Fandom involvement ==

Christine is a [[Sonic the Hedgehog (series)|Sonic the Hedgehog]] and [[Pokemon]] fan and the creator of the [[webcomic]] ''[[Sonichu]]'', which she started in January 2004. She is also a fan of [[My Little Pony]].

She has drawn controversy{{clarify}} for her beliefs about [[homosexuality]], [[W:racism|racism]] and [[Wikipedia:Asperger syndrome|Asperger syndrome]],{{fact}} as well as her hand-drawn, childlike style or point of view,{{fact}}{{clarify}} which has been compared to [[wikipedia:Outsider art|outsider art]].<ref>[https://www.splicetoday.com/pop-culture/outsider-art-in-the-digital-age "Outsider Art in the Digital Age"] - article for ''Splice Today'' by Collin David. Dated July 13, 2010, retrieved November 14, 2017.</ref>

=== Fursona ===

Her [[fursona]] is '''Chris-chan Sonichu''', a [[hedgehog]]-[[Pikachu]] [[Pokémorph]].

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://twitter.com/CWCSonichu Christine W Chandler (@CWCSonichu)] on [[Twitter]]

{{person-stub}}

[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Artists]]
[[Category:Cartoonists]]
[[Category:Lifestylers]]
[[Category:Hedgehog-hybrid characters]]
[[Category:Pokémon-hybrid characters]]
[[Category:Virginia]]
[[Category:1982 births]]

User:Lumin City

2024-02-25T05:55:22Z

Lumin City: Added the people category.

{{Personal-article|Lumin City}}

{{Infobox
|name = YouTuber
|bodystyle =
|title = Lumin City
|titlestyle =
|image = [[File:Lumin_ANE2024_Fursuit_Games.jpg|200px]]
|imagestyle =
|caption = Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin
|captionstyle =
|headerstyle = background:#ccf;
|labelstyle = background:#ddf;
|datastyle =

|header4 = Personal information
|label4 = Nationality
|data4 = American
|label5 = Other names
|data5 = Lumin, Illumination City
|label6 = Hobbies
|data6 = [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
|label7 = Species
|data7 = [[Siberian Husky]]

|header8 = YouTube information
|label9 = Channel
|data9 = [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City]
|header6 =
|label10 = Years active
|data10 = 2021-present
|label11 = Genres
|data11 = [[Wikipedia:News|News]], [[Wikipedia:Opinion_piece|commentary]]
|label12 = Subscribers
|data12 = 1.47 thousand<ref name="YouTube About">[https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity/about "About Lumin City"] [[YouTube]].</ref>
|label13 = Total views
|data13 = 218 thousand<ref name="YouTube About"/>
}}

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
| {{User YouTube}}
|-
| {{User LGBT}}
|}
</div>

I'm an [[Wikipedia:Asian_Americans|Asian-American]] [[Wikipedia:Neurodiversity|neurodivergent]] [[Transgender|non-binary]] [[fursuiter]], [[Youtuber]], and online personality from the [[Wikipedia:New_York_metropolitan_area|New York metro area]]. I'm best known for my informative and highly edited videos discussing the Fandom through a progressive lens. Don't be afraid to contact me!

== Fandom Involvement ==
I joined the Fandom in early 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, having previously watched Furry videos on the internet. I attended my first [[furmeet]] in May 2021, and my first [[furry convention]] [[Furrydelphia]] in August. I've attended numerous furmeets and furry conventions since.

=== YouTube Career ===
My YouTube channel is dedicated to improving the fandom by documenting and archiving Furry history through engaging videos. It has a progressive lean, discussing including but not limited to economic equality, education, and social justice. I make videos on Furries, Furry conventions, and the Fandom's interactions with others on the internet, both good and bad. I also discuss those trying to take advantage of the Fandom, including but not limited to non-Furry content creators disrespecting the Fandom, including harassing attendees at fur cons to get views and news platforms using the Fandom to push bigoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

=== Joining WikiFur ===
While I had edited for WikiFur since December 17th, 2022, it was infrequent. Following [[Mark Merlino]]'s passing from stage IV liver cancer<ref>[https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-true-fandom-original "Help a True Fandom Original."] post by [[Rodney Stansfield]] on [[W:GoFundMe|GoFundMe]]. Retrieved February 9, 2024.</ref> on February 20th,<ref>[https://twitter.com/Skiltaire_Party/status/1759882242137149928 "He's gone."] post on [[The Prancing Skiltaire]]'s [[Twitter]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> watching the fandom collectively mourn his loss, including me, I started reading his Wikifur article to look back at his history. I had mentioned ConFurence, the first furry convention co-founded by Merlino and his partner, Rod O'Riley in a YouTube video on November 9th, 2021. discussing the "real" problem with furry conventions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLbKJqoNclw "The REAL Problem With Furry Conventions (BLFC 2021)"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> However, the more I looked at his life I realized his influence went beyond ConFurence, helping found not only the Furry Fandom but also popularizing the Anime fandom.

His dedication to archiving and teaching Furry history later in life particularly struck a chord with me, as it helped in producing numerous YouTube videos, including using ConFurence to discuss how furry conventions always had issues. As a result, I've decided to volunteer my time in editing Wikifur articles to serve the next generation of Furries to be able to learn about the Fandom, but also fight back against far-right anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes and conspiracies against the Fandom. While my main focus will be on YouTube due to having a wider reach, I'll volunteer any spare time to Wikifur whenever articles need to be improved.

=== Fursona ===
My [[fursona]] is a lime [[Siberian Husky]] named Lumin. My reference sheet was drawn by [[Pulex]] and shared on meow.social, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023.<ref>[https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525 "here's a reference sheet, drawn by pulexart.com!"] post on Lumin City's meow.social [[Mastodon]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> My profile picture featuring my fursona was drawn by the [[Furry artist]] [[feve]] on [[FurAffinity]] on January 30th.<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/"] post on feve's [[FurAffinity]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
My [[Fursuit]], Lumin was made by [[Shellsews]]. A video unboxing and discussing my journey to having it made was uploaded to my YouTube channel on January 6th, 2024.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ag9JucHqE "Unboxing The Best Worst Fursuit & Suiting Up"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published January 6, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> Lumin was first revealed at [[Anthro New England 2024]].

=== Convention Attendance ===
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|}
</div>

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2023
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023

== Honoring Mark Merlino ==

=== How Joe Strike Was My Mark Merlino ===
Despite having never personally met Merlino, I had met [[Joe Strike]], another early Furry who wrote two books on the fandom,<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2023/11/13/book-review-furry-planet/ "Book review – Furry Planet: A World Gone Wild is an enjoyable tour of furries around the world."] by [[Grubbs Grizzly]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published November 13, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> and was born two years earlier than Merlino. I first met him in June 2021 at an NYC movie theater furmeet watching Peter Rabbit 2. We then numerous times at various meetups and furry conventions. He started a monthly Furry and Brony meetup after being inspired by London Furs' monthly meetups that saw over a hundred Furries,<ref>[https://www.meetup.com/nyc-furries/events/295007511/ "MONTHLY FURRY/BRONY MEET-UP!"] post by Joe Strike on meetup.com. Retrieved February 24, 2024. "The London Furs have been meeting every month for years: 100+ furries gather at a friendly bar/restaurant with outdoor space to eat, drink and even suit up—and there’s no reason we New Yorkers [sic] furries and bronies can’t do the same!"</ref> which I attended several times. Our most recent encounter was at Anthro New England 2024 when I showed him my Fursuit. Merlino's passing was a reminder to appreciate the time I left with him, as it'll likely only be a few years longer.

=== The Importance of Legacy ===
'''Trigger Warning:''' This section contains detailed discussions about child abuse, mental illness, and suicide that may be distressing for some readers. I understand these topics can be difficult. If you need support, please reach out to the 988 hotline (The United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide your local suicide hotline,] or someone you trust. Additional resources, including mental health organizations, are also available for support.
<br><br/>
I was reminded of [[Dogbomb]]'s passing from [[Wikipedia:ALS|ALS]] back in 2019,<ref>[https://twitter.com/dogbomb1/status/1114286592737210368 "Dogbomb has left the building. / I love all y’all!"] post by Dogbomb on [[Twitter]]. Published April 5, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> two years before I joined the fandom, and [[Wikipedia:MatPat|MatPat]]'s YouTube video on July 25th, 2018 honoring Ronnie, who sadly ended his life through suicide.<ref name="Losing The Battle">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWTEE4SkCLY "Losing the Battle"] video on [[Wikipedia:The Game Theorists|The Game Theorists]] YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> I empathized with Dogbomb's struggle with ALS, and MatPat's grieving of Ronnie, as I had struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts for years before and while in the Fandom.

{{q|Ronnie, in all the years that I knew him, dealt with demons that only he could understand. Scars left by a childhood that he kept under a lock and key. ... What I can say is that he did his best to move on; to strike out on his own, to move beyond the trauma of his past. To take his mental health into his own hands, and take his recovery seriously, one step at a time, every single day.}}

I also related to MatPat's description of Ronnie's personality, resulting in his actions being perceived as malicious despite his good intentions.

{{q|That past also gave him a personality that was probably best described as... an acquired taste. He was incredibly sharp and incredibly witty, but he also had this ability to cut through a person's facade in a way that was sometimes hilarious and sometimes a bit off-putting. ... it was that same personality that, understandably, sometimes got him into trouble with people who weren't familiar with that part of him, who didn't understand that's the way he processed the world, that- that was the way he dealt with social situations, that he was a person with dark periods who had a tendency to sometimes lash out with anger. ... It wasn't an easy side to deal with, but that wasn't Ronnie. Ronnie wasn't an arrogant person, he was just socially unsure. He was unaware of how his behaviors would be perceived by others.}}

MatPat apologized for those Ronnie had hurt and didn't see "Ronnie as he really was", who hugged MatPat after their last Gamelab episode together and took pride in obscure internet trivia. I similarly had experiences in private chats, at furmeets and Furry conventions where I assisted other Furries, lent an ear to those who needed help, and gave hugs in Fursuit.

{{q|Those moments were the true Ronnie. When he was unburdened by his past. When sunlight would peek through all of the clouds. It was take a lot of patience to get there, and a lot of long conversations and phone calls. But when he got there, it was great because you knew that it was honest. And it was genuine. It was a person who was free.
}}

{{q|Ronnie told me once in the early days of the channel's history that it was his goal for his animations to be recognized and for him to be influential as an artist...}}

MatPat wanted to tell Ronnie that he achieved his goal of becoming an influential artist, making the "Game Theory style" and inspired many of The Game Theorist's editors. MatPat hoped Ronnie knew he achieved his goal, and regretted not telling him how proud he was of him, how he evolved as an artist with his elaborate animations, and created his voice, not only impacting the channel but the internet as a whole.

{{q|We're all really busy, every hour of every day around the clock. But take the opportunity to tell people what you think. How much you appreciate them, how much you love them, how proud you are of them. Even if that person is really weird in the way that they take their compliments like Ronnie often was. It'll stick. It'll land. And that compliment will really mean a lot."}}

Matpat hoped his video on Ronnie's loss would "start to break down the stigmas around talking about mental health, social anxiety, and suicide."

{{q|First, and most importantly, remember, you are never alone. Never. Even if it feels like you have no one to talk to. Even if you're talking to someone and it feels like they can't say the right thing, it's okay. It's about you not having to carry the burden yourself. It's about you NOT having to go through this alone. Keep talking, keep conversations open, because it is the single most important thing in these sorts of situations. It's about you being able to give voice to what's wrong, to what you can only experience without being judged.}}

MatPat had done fan meetups at conventions like [[Wikipedia:VidCon|VidCon]], meeting fans facing similar struggles and being honored he was the reason they continued living.

{{q|a lot of you who watch this channel go through these struggles. That you're dealing with social anxiety, with suicidal thoughts, with depression, and what I often hear from you in those stories is that this channel, this community, had helped bring you through the darkest of times, the lowest of lows. A breakup, a loss of a family member, whatever dark thoughts might be circulating through your head and that is the biggest honor for me to hear, that me nerding out in my closet somehow gave you hope to continue on, to know that you weren't alone, that your mind processes things differently and that's okay, and that other people are out there just like you. But I also recognize that this is a battle that you have to fight every day, and it's a battle that you have to WIN every single day. Ronnie fought that battle for a lot of days, and he won for a lot of days. But it only takes one loss...}}

MatPat asks viewers to share their stories with those willing to listen to them. Despite social media getting increasingly polarized, it still can unite those and give people who feel like no one will listen to them some that will. He also asks those to reach out in real life, providing various services. Most importantly though, MatPat reminds viewers that they're important, valued, and loved, even if they don't realize it, and to honor Ronnie's memory by living and talking openly and honestly with others.

{{q|don't be ashamed to have your voice be heard, to share your story out there with people who are ready and EAGER to listen to it. ... at a time when social video and social media are constantly tearing each other apart, let's remember that it has positive to offer, too. That it can unite people. That it can give people who feel like they have no one to listen to them. Someone who is there; to listen. But, also reach out in real life. There are countless numbers of services out there available to help you: Suicide hotlines, websites, therapists, people who are trained to help. ... most importantly of all, remember that you are important. That you are valued and that you are LOVED by more people than you could ever possibly think of. ... Honor his memory by living, most importantly of all, and talking openly and honestly with each other. That's most important.}}

On October 8th, 2018, seven months after DogBomb's initial [[FurAffinity]] revealing he had ALS,<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/journal/8648748/ "ALS Can Kiss My Fuzzy Butt"] - Fur Affinity journal by Dogbomb. Dated March 8, 2018. Retrieved March 22, 2019.</ref> [[Kijani Lion]] wrote about him for [[Dogpatch Press]]. When asked what he what is best piece of advice was Dogbomb's response was one I fully agreed with.

{{q|Bad stuff happens, it just does, and that’s okay, ... The only thing we can truly control are our own actions and reactions. If you meet challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, you’ve just beaten the universe at its own game.<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2018/10/08/last-mutt-standing-dogbomb "'Last Mutt Standing': Dogbomb inspires the world through his courageous battle against ALS"] by [[Kijani Lion]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published October 8, 2018. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>}}

=== Moving Forward ===

Merlino's passing has reminded me that the fandom wouldn't exist in the way it is without him, being inclusive and accepting of those outcasted by society, especially those LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. It reaffirmed my belief that beyond appreciating anthropomorphic animals, this is what the fandom is truly about. With the rise in far-right anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, especially toward the fandom, it's now more important than ever for us to be united against such bigotry, instead of continuing to tear ourselves apart.

I hope to continue Merlino's legacy by introducing new members to the fandom through my work, archiving Furry history, and keep fighting the stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, especially the transgender community. I want to inspire the next generation of Furries for the next few decades and leave my mark on the fandom that is just as impactful as Merlino's. The fandom has been around for almost four decades, and I hope we can continue it for another four and beyond.

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Fursona Pictures" widths="250px" heights="250px">
File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png|Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin drawn by [[Pulex]].
File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png|Lumin City's profile picture drawn by feve.
</gallery>

== To-Do List ==
* [[Midwest FurFest 2023]]
** [https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/wall-of-flippers-detects-flipper-zero-bluetooth-spam-attacks/ Flipper Zero Disruption]
** [https://www.pcgamer.com/fake-valve-prism-vr-headset-website-is-a-prank-based-on-an-extremely-specific-joke-from-the-2023-midwest-furfest-furry-convention/ Valve Prism Prank]
* [https://twitter.com/PatrickSnowyote/status/1749842584199913903 Anthro New England 2024's Photo Restriction Controversy]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/user/LuminCity/fursuiting Lumin City] on [[FurTrack]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/index/character:lumin_(husky) Lumin City's Fursuit] on [[FurTrack]]

[[Category:Canid_species]]
[[Category:Canine_species]]
[[Category:Dog_characters]]
[[Category:Husky_characters]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:New Jersey]]
[[Category:New York]]
[[Category:New York City]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Programmers]]
[[Category:United_States_of_America]]
[[Category:YouTubers]]

User:Lumin City

2024-02-25T05:51:51Z

Lumin City: Added categories.

{{Personal-article|Lumin City}}

{{Infobox
|name = YouTuber
|bodystyle =
|title = Lumin City
|titlestyle =
|image = [[File:Lumin_ANE2024_Fursuit_Games.jpg|200px]]
|imagestyle =
|caption = Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin
|captionstyle =
|headerstyle = background:#ccf;
|labelstyle = background:#ddf;
|datastyle =

|header4 = Personal information
|label4 = Nationality
|data4 = American
|label5 = Other names
|data5 = Lumin, Illumination City
|label6 = Hobbies
|data6 = [[Fursuiter]], [[Programmer]]
|label7 = Species
|data7 = [[Siberian Husky]]

|header8 = YouTube information
|label9 = Channel
|data9 = [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City]
|header6 =
|label10 = Years active
|data10 = 2021-present
|label11 = Genres
|data11 = [[Wikipedia:News|News]], [[Wikipedia:Opinion_piece|commentary]]
|label12 = Subscribers
|data12 = 1.47 thousand<ref name="YouTube About">[https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity/about "About Lumin City"] [[YouTube]].</ref>
|label13 = Total views
|data13 = 218 thousand<ref name="YouTube About"/>
}}

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
| {{User YouTube}}
|-
| {{User LGBT}}
|}
</div>

I'm an [[Wikipedia:Asian_Americans|Asian-American]] [[Wikipedia:Neurodiversity|neurodivergent]] [[Transgender|non-binary]] [[fursuiter]], [[Youtuber]], and online personality from the [[Wikipedia:New_York_metropolitan_area|New York metro area]]. I'm best known for my informative and highly edited videos discussing the Fandom through a progressive lens. Don't be afraid to contact me!

== Fandom Involvement ==
I joined the Fandom in early 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, having previously watched Furry videos on the internet. I attended my first [[furmeet]] in May 2021, and my first [[furry convention]] [[Furrydelphia]] in August. I've attended numerous furmeets and furry conventions since.

=== YouTube Career ===
My YouTube channel is dedicated to improving the fandom by documenting and archiving Furry history through engaging videos. It has a progressive lean, discussing including but not limited to economic equality, education, and social justice. I make videos on Furries, Furry conventions, and the Fandom's interactions with others on the internet, both good and bad. I also discuss those trying to take advantage of the Fandom, including but not limited to non-Furry content creators disrespecting the Fandom, including harassing attendees at fur cons to get views and news platforms using the Fandom to push bigoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

=== Joining WikiFur ===
While I had edited for WikiFur since December 17th, 2022, it was infrequent. Following [[Mark Merlino]]'s passing from stage IV liver cancer<ref>[https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-true-fandom-original "Help a True Fandom Original."] post by [[Rodney Stansfield]] on [[W:GoFundMe|GoFundMe]]. Retrieved February 9, 2024.</ref> on February 20th,<ref>[https://twitter.com/Skiltaire_Party/status/1759882242137149928 "He's gone."] post on [[The Prancing Skiltaire]]'s [[Twitter]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> watching the fandom collectively mourn his loss, including me, I started reading his Wikifur article to look back at his history. I had mentioned ConFurence, the first furry convention co-founded by Merlino and his partner, Rod O'Riley in a YouTube video on November 9th, 2021. discussing the "real" problem with furry conventions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLbKJqoNclw "The REAL Problem With Furry Conventions (BLFC 2021)"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> However, the more I looked at his life I realized his influence went beyond ConFurence, helping found not only the Furry Fandom but also popularizing the Anime fandom.

His dedication to archiving and teaching Furry history later in life particularly struck a chord with me, as it helped in producing numerous YouTube videos, including using ConFurence to discuss how furry conventions always had issues. As a result, I've decided to volunteer my time in editing Wikifur articles to serve the next generation of Furries to be able to learn about the Fandom, but also fight back against far-right anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes and conspiracies against the Fandom. While my main focus will be on YouTube due to having a wider reach, I'll volunteer any spare time to Wikifur whenever articles need to be improved.

=== Fursona ===
My [[fursona]] is a lime [[Siberian Husky]] named Lumin. My reference sheet was drawn by [[Pulex]] and shared on meow.social, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023.<ref>[https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525 "here's a reference sheet, drawn by pulexart.com!"] post on Lumin City's meow.social [[Mastodon]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> My profile picture featuring my fursona was drawn by the [[Furry artist]] [[feve]] on [[FurAffinity]] on January 30th.<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/"] post on feve's [[FurAffinity]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
My [[Fursuit]], Lumin was made by [[Shellsews]]. A video unboxing and discussing my journey to having it made was uploaded to my YouTube channel on January 6th, 2024.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ag9JucHqE "Unboxing The Best Worst Fursuit & Suiting Up"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published January 6, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> Lumin was first revealed at [[Anthro New England 2024]].

=== Convention Attendance ===
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|}
</div>

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2023
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023

== Honoring Mark Merlino ==

=== How Joe Strike Was My Mark Merlino ===
Despite having never personally met Merlino, I had met [[Joe Strike]], another early Furry who wrote two books on the fandom,<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2023/11/13/book-review-furry-planet/ "Book review – Furry Planet: A World Gone Wild is an enjoyable tour of furries around the world."] by [[Grubbs Grizzly]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published November 13, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> and was born two years earlier than Merlino. I first met him in June 2021 at an NYC movie theater furmeet watching Peter Rabbit 2. We then numerous times at various meetups and furry conventions. He started a monthly Furry and Brony meetup after being inspired by London Furs' monthly meetups that saw over a hundred Furries,<ref>[https://www.meetup.com/nyc-furries/events/295007511/ "MONTHLY FURRY/BRONY MEET-UP!"] post by Joe Strike on meetup.com. Retrieved February 24, 2024. "The London Furs have been meeting every month for years: 100+ furries gather at a friendly bar/restaurant with outdoor space to eat, drink and even suit up—and there’s no reason we New Yorkers [sic] furries and bronies can’t do the same!"</ref> which I attended several times. Our most recent encounter was at Anthro New England 2024 when I showed him my Fursuit. Merlino's passing was a reminder to appreciate the time I left with him, as it'll likely only be a few years longer.

=== The Importance of Legacy ===
'''Trigger Warning:''' This section contains detailed discussions about child abuse, mental illness, and suicide that may be distressing for some readers. I understand these topics can be difficult. If you need support, please reach out to the 988 hotline (The United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide your local suicide hotline,] or someone you trust. Additional resources, including mental health organizations, are also available for support.
<br><br/>
I was reminded of [[Dogbomb]]'s passing from [[Wikipedia:ALS|ALS]] back in 2019,<ref>[https://twitter.com/dogbomb1/status/1114286592737210368 "Dogbomb has left the building. / I love all y’all!"] post by Dogbomb on [[Twitter]]. Published April 5, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> two years before I joined the fandom, and [[Wikipedia:MatPat|MatPat]]'s YouTube video on July 25th, 2018 honoring Ronnie, who sadly ended his life through suicide.<ref name="Losing The Battle">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWTEE4SkCLY "Losing the Battle"] video on [[Wikipedia:The Game Theorists|The Game Theorists]] YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> I empathized with Dogbomb's struggle with ALS, and MatPat's grieving of Ronnie, as I had struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts for years before and while in the Fandom.

{{q|Ronnie, in all the years that I knew him, dealt with demons that only he could understand. Scars left by a childhood that he kept under a lock and key. ... What I can say is that he did his best to move on; to strike out on his own, to move beyond the trauma of his past. To take his mental health into his own hands, and take his recovery seriously, one step at a time, every single day.}}

I also related to MatPat's description of Ronnie's personality, resulting in his actions being perceived as malicious despite his good intentions.

{{q|That past also gave him a personality that was probably best described as... an acquired taste. He was incredibly sharp and incredibly witty, but he also had this ability to cut through a person's facade in a way that was sometimes hilarious and sometimes a bit off-putting. ... it was that same personality that, understandably, sometimes got him into trouble with people who weren't familiar with that part of him, who didn't understand that's the way he processed the world, that- that was the way he dealt with social situations, that he was a person with dark periods who had a tendency to sometimes lash out with anger. ... It wasn't an easy side to deal with, but that wasn't Ronnie. Ronnie wasn't an arrogant person, he was just socially unsure. He was unaware of how his behaviors would be perceived by others.}}

MatPat apologized for those Ronnie had hurt and didn't see "Ronnie as he really was", who hugged MatPat after their last Gamelab episode together and took pride in obscure internet trivia. I similarly had experiences in private chats, at furmeets and Furry conventions where I assisted other Furries, lent an ear to those who needed help, and gave hugs in Fursuit.

{{q|Those moments were the true Ronnie. When he was unburdened by his past. When sunlight would peek through all of the clouds. It was take a lot of patience to get there, and a lot of long conversations and phone calls. But when he got there, it was great because you knew that it was honest. And it was genuine. It was a person who was free.
}}

{{q|Ronnie told me once in the early days of the channel's history that it was his goal for his animations to be recognized and for him to be influential as an artist...}}

MatPat wanted to tell Ronnie that he achieved his goal of becoming an influential artist, making the "Game Theory style" and inspired many of The Game Theorist's editors. MatPat hoped Ronnie knew he achieved his goal, and regretted not telling him how proud he was of him, how he evolved as an artist with his elaborate animations, and created his voice, not only impacting the channel but the internet as a whole.

{{q|We're all really busy, every hour of every day around the clock. But take the opportunity to tell people what you think. How much you appreciate them, how much you love them, how proud you are of them. Even if that person is really weird in the way that they take their compliments like Ronnie often was. It'll stick. It'll land. And that compliment will really mean a lot."}}

Matpat hoped his video on Ronnie's loss would "start to break down the stigmas around talking about mental health, social anxiety, and suicide."

{{q|First, and most importantly, remember, you are never alone. Never. Even if it feels like you have no one to talk to. Even if you're talking to someone and it feels like they can't say the right thing, it's okay. It's about you not having to carry the burden yourself. It's about you NOT having to go through this alone. Keep talking, keep conversations open, because it is the single most important thing in these sorts of situations. It's about you being able to give voice to what's wrong, to what you can only experience without being judged.}}

MatPat had done fan meetups at conventions like [[Wikipedia:VidCon|VidCon]], meeting fans facing similar struggles and being honored he was the reason they continued living.

{{q|a lot of you who watch this channel go through these struggles. That you're dealing with social anxiety, with suicidal thoughts, with depression, and what I often hear from you in those stories is that this channel, this community, had helped bring you through the darkest of times, the lowest of lows. A breakup, a loss of a family member, whatever dark thoughts might be circulating through your head and that is the biggest honor for me to hear, that me nerding out in my closet somehow gave you hope to continue on, to know that you weren't alone, that your mind processes things differently and that's okay, and that other people are out there just like you. But I also recognize that this is a battle that you have to fight every day, and it's a battle that you have to WIN every single day. Ronnie fought that battle for a lot of days, and he won for a lot of days. But it only takes one loss...}}

MatPat asks viewers to share their stories with those willing to listen to them. Despite social media getting increasingly polarized, it still can unite those and give people who feel like no one will listen to them some that will. He also asks those to reach out in real life, providing various services. Most importantly though, MatPat reminds viewers that they're important, valued, and loved, even if they don't realize it, and to honor Ronnie's memory by living and talking openly and honestly with others.

{{q|don't be ashamed to have your voice be heard, to share your story out there with people who are ready and EAGER to listen to it. ... at a time when social video and social media are constantly tearing each other apart, let's remember that it has positive to offer, too. That it can unite people. That it can give people who feel like they have no one to listen to them. Someone who is there; to listen. But, also reach out in real life. There are countless numbers of services out there available to help you: Suicide hotlines, websites, therapists, people who are trained to help. ... most importantly of all, remember that you are important. That you are valued and that you are LOVED by more people than you could ever possibly think of. ... Honor his memory by living, most importantly of all, and talking openly and honestly with each other. That's most important.}}

On October 8th, 2018, seven months after DogBomb's initial [[FurAffinity]] revealing he had ALS,<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/journal/8648748/ "ALS Can Kiss My Fuzzy Butt"] - Fur Affinity journal by Dogbomb. Dated March 8, 2018. Retrieved March 22, 2019.</ref> [[Kijani Lion]] wrote about him for [[Dogpatch Press]]. When asked what he what is best piece of advice was Dogbomb's response was one I fully agreed with.

{{q|Bad stuff happens, it just does, and that’s okay, ... The only thing we can truly control are our own actions and reactions. If you meet challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, you’ve just beaten the universe at its own game.<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2018/10/08/last-mutt-standing-dogbomb "'Last Mutt Standing': Dogbomb inspires the world through his courageous battle against ALS"] by [[Kijani Lion]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published October 8, 2018. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>}}

=== Moving Forward ===

Merlino's passing has reminded me that the fandom wouldn't exist in the way it is without him, being inclusive and accepting of those outcasted by society, especially those LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. It reaffirmed my belief that beyond appreciating anthropomorphic animals, this is what the fandom is truly about. With the rise in far-right anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, especially toward the fandom, it's now more important than ever for us to be united against such bigotry, instead of continuing to tear ourselves apart.

I hope to continue Merlino's legacy by introducing new members to the fandom through my work, archiving Furry history, and keep fighting the stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, especially the transgender community. I want to inspire the next generation of Furries for the next few decades and leave my mark on the fandom that is just as impactful as Merlino's. The fandom has been around for almost four decades, and I hope we can continue it for another four and beyond.

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Fursona Pictures" widths="250px" heights="250px">
File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png|Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin drawn by [[Pulex]].
File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png|Lumin City's profile picture drawn by feve.
</gallery>

== To-Do List ==
* [[Midwest FurFest 2023]]
** [https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/wall-of-flippers-detects-flipper-zero-bluetooth-spam-attacks/ Flipper Zero Disruption]
** [https://www.pcgamer.com/fake-valve-prism-vr-headset-website-is-a-prank-based-on-an-extremely-specific-joke-from-the-2023-midwest-furfest-furry-convention/ Valve Prism Prank]
* [https://twitter.com/PatrickSnowyote/status/1749842584199913903 Anthro New England 2024's Photo Restriction Controversy]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/user/LuminCity/fursuiting Lumin City] on [[FurTrack]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/index/character:lumin_(husky) Lumin City's Fursuit] on [[FurTrack]]

[[Category:Canid_species]]
[[Category:Canine_species]]
[[Category:Dog_characters]]
[[Category:Husky_characters]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:New Jersey]]
[[Category:New York]]
[[Category:New York City]]
[[Category:Programmers]]
[[Category:United_States_of_America]]
[[Category:YouTubers]]

File:KovuTheHusky Fursuit.jpg

2024-02-25T05:16:01Z

Lumin City: /* Summary */ Added a word.

== Summary ==
[[KovuTheHusky]] revealing their Fursuit, made by [[MoreFurLess]] on Twitter on May 13rd, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20200515030842/https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260404989647826945

== Licensing ==
{{Fursona}}

File:KovuTheHusky Fursuit.jpg

2024-02-25T05:15:37Z

Lumin City: /* Licensing */ Replaced the licensing template to Fursona.

== Summary ==
[[KovuTheHusky]] revealing Fursuit, made by [[MoreFurLess]] on Twitter on May 13rd, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20200515030842/https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260404989647826945
== Licensing ==
{{Fursona}}

File:KovuTheHusky Fursuit.jpg

2024-02-25T05:14:02Z

Lumin City: KovuTheHusky revealing Fursuit, made by MoreFurLess on Twitter on May 13rd, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20200515030842/https://twitter.com/KovuTheHusky/status/1260404989647826945

Cassidy Civet

2024-02-25T04:52:47Z

Lumin City: Added an overly detailed template. Due to my conflict of interest I'm uncomfortable summarizing it.

{{overly detailed}}
{{copyedit}}
{{unref}}
{{Infobox person
| name = Cassidy Civet
| realname =
| othernames = Cassidy The Civet
| image = [[File:Cassidy_Civet_Selfie.jpeg|200px]]
| caption = The first ever photo Cassidy took in her suit
| born = September 17, 1998
| residence = [[W:Port Moody, British Columbia|Port Moody, British Columbia]], Canada
| profession = Fursuiter<br>Musician<br>Writer
| species = Malayan civet
| gohonor =
| url =
}}
'''Cassidy Civet''', or '''Cassidy The Civet''' (born September 17, 1998), is a Canadian-Italian<ref>[https://twitter.com/CassidyTheCivet/status/1381378627992875009?s=20]. Retrieved July 3, 2017.</ref> [[furry writer]], [[musician]], [[fursuiter]], and [[YouTuber]] who lives in [[W:Port Moody, British Columbia|Port Moody, British Columbia]], Canada.<ref>[https://twitter.com/CassidyTheCivet Cassidy The Civet's profile] on [[Twitter]]. Retrieved July 3, 2017.</ref>

== Biography ==
Cassidy has never lived outside her small city of 33k. Her father served briefly as a one-term city councilor from 2018 to 2022. Cassidy primarily works as a [[movie extra]] when not at conventions, as well as odd municipal jobs.

She suffered a mini-stroke, or TIA, on May 1, 2019. This has largely been the reason she has decided to finally release her first album.

== Fandom Involvement ==
Cassidy Civet found the [[furry community]] around 2012. She had long been interested in anthropomorphic cartoons and media, and it was through her short-lived obsession with [[Sonic the Hedgehog]] that she found the fandom. Before she knew the fandom existed, however, she had posted pictures of [[fursuit]]s on [[Facebook]] in adoration and fascination.

Cassidy also won the [[Good Furry Award]] for 2021 presented by [[Grubbs Grizzly]].<ref>[https://www.askpapabear.com/2021-voting.html]</ref> She later also appeared on season 2 of [[Wikipedia:Canada's Got Talent|Canada's Got Talent]].<ref>[https://twitter.com/Bahn_Maplewolf/status/1516985219194236928?s=20&t=JdcOhKe5EqHzTBfj4dHYrQ]</ref>

She was a Guest of Honor at [[Wild Prairie Fur Con]] in 2023

=== Fursona ===
Cassidy Civet's [[fursona]] choice of a [[Malayan Civet]] came from the most unusual of sources. While watching [[W:Survivor: Caramoan|Survivor Caramoan]], the camera cut briefly to a civet in the jungle. This caught Cassidy's eye and she took a rather low-quality photo of it with her phone. She began showing it to everyone she could find in hopes that someone would know what it was. It wasn't until she asked the internet that she got her answer. She picked her species more than a year after making her first [[FurAffinity]] account on the FurAffinity site. The name '''Cassidy''' wasn't decided on for another year or so. Another name that was considered was Celeste, but was ultimately rejected after her sister said it was too similar to Princess Celestia from [[My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic]] even though it was inspired by a character from [[W:Babar|Babar]].

=== SurviFur ===
A very public fan of the hit CBS show "Survivor", Cassidy began running her very own competitions based on the franchise at conventions starting in 2019. Dubbing them [[SurviFur]], and naming them after the cons they've been run at (i.e. SurviFur: Megaplex 2022), this panel has now been run over 15 times (or seasons). The first "season" was run at [[VancouFur 2019]] with a cast of 20 players, and ultimately ended without a winner. The first winner came from [[Fur-Eh! 2019]], the first game capped at 12 players.

== Convention attendance ==
* 2016/2017/2018 - Her first convention was [[VancouFur 2016]], also attended [[Howloween]] for the first time that same year. She made her staff debut at [[VancouFur 2017]] where she was the Variety Show lead (and host with [[Potoroo]]), as well as an actress in the Opening and Closing ceremonies (only having a speaking role in the former). She also made her [[Fursuit Parade]] debut in [[Trapa]]'s original [[W:African Civet|African Civet]] suit.

:Cassidy attended [[Fur-Eh! 2017]] for the first time, making her debut trip to another Canadian province. She entered and came in third at the Variety Show, with her cover of [[W:Keep_the_Faith_(Tamara_Gachechiladze_song)|Keep The Faith]] by [[Wikipedia| Tamara Gachechiladze]]. She once again appeared in the [[Fursuit Parade]] in [[Trapa]]'s original civet suit. She also attended Howloween 2017.

:She returned as the theater lead for [[VancouFur 2018]], hosting and running the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, as well as the Variety Show. She also performed in the variety show, performing her debut Pop single "[[Comfort Zone]]". Cassidy was also asked at the last minute to be the auctioneer for the Charity Auction for the first time. She returned in the fursuit parade in Trapa's fursuit once again.

:Attending [[Fur-Eh! 2018]], she was in the variety show and featured in the first-ever Fur-Eh! Performance Showcase. In the Variety Show, she sang [[W:Under the Ladder|Under the Ladder]] by [[Wikipedia| Mélovin]]. She also attended [[Howloween]] 2018 as well to round out the convention year.

* 2019 - She kicked off 2019 by attending [[Further Confusion 2019]], which was her first American con, and first out-of-country con. She performed in FC:Unleashed, the con's variety show, performing the same song as at [[Fur-Eh! 2018]], also not placing. She went to FC primarily to meet a long-time friend from online.

:She was asked to return as theater lead for her third consecutive year of staffing [[VancouFur 2019]]. However, she became the youth coordinator instead through a series of mix-ups and miscommunications. She ran 4 panels, the most she's ever run at a con to this date.

:Upon receiving her first full fursuit on June 10, she made her suit debut at [[Fur-Eh! 2019]], performing in full suit at the variety show performing twice with the songs [[W: Chameleon_(Michela_Pace_song)|Chameleon]] and [[W:Replay_(Tamta_song)|Replay]] (placing second), and in the dance competition, where she danced to "Temple" by Baauer featuring M.I.A. and G-DRAGON.

:She attended the debut [[Furvana]], performing in the dance competition where she failed to place once again, with an odd single judge/host format.

:At [[Howloween 2019]], she judged the dance competition and introduced a unique style of voting involving three judges and one audience vote for a 75/25 split. Despite a broken link, the backup QR code proved successful and this new combined result ultimately lead to a tie that was broken by the judge's vote. Cassidy hopes to bring this new method of voting to more cons in the future.

:Deciding last minute, Cassidy made her [[Midwest FurFest 2019]] debut. However, after battling a cold in the days leading up to her appearance, she lost her voice and failed to bring enough business cards to the con. This, coupled with the poor scheduling of putting the variety show at the same time as floor wars, made it the first con she attended with over a thousand people where she failed to get a single Patreon supporter. While she did have fun, on the business side it was a total bust.

* 2020 - 2020 started with [[Further Confusion 2020]] once more, bringing her suit for the first time. She sang "Greek Fire" in FC: Unleashed with backup dancers [[Paco Panda]] and [[Koidel Coyote]] but yet again failed to place. She also qualified for the dance competition on her first try, not even being aware she had made it through the auditions until [[Nos Hyena]] told her at the fursuit parade.

:Being invited as a musical guest, she made her debut at [[Furry Fiesta 2020|Texas Furry Fiesta 2020]] with her first-ever concert to promote her newly released album [[Double Take]]. She was also a judge at the dance competition, which had the now infamous #testicles incident, which became the most hashtagged TFF-related thing that weekend.

:Her final con of 2020 was [[VancouFur 2020]]. This was the last con before the pandemic struck and canceled all upcoming events. She performed her song [[Sakura]] in the talent show, and performed "La Voix" by Malena Ernman in the third annual Cutie Pageant, and got 2nd place. It was also the first time she had to cancel her flagship panel SurviFur due to poor scheduling. She also judged the dance competition and participated in Floor Wars by request to fill out the nonsuited bracket, though she was knocked out in the first round.

:She performed her first online concert as part of [[Confuror 2020]] which had canceled its physical con as part of the [[COVID-19]] pandemic. She also judged the dance competition where she coordinated her audience participation vote for the first time fully online.

* 2021 - Cassidy entered the virtual variety show for [[Further Confusion 2021]], where for the first time she finished in first place for the music video of her song "Sakura". This became her first-ever talent show win at any con and her first top 3 finish at FC after two previous attempts. She also had her first concert of the year on the Sunday of the con, also being her first concert at FC.

:She also did a digital concert for [[Fur Squared]], for which there was an encore performance due to stream quality issues. This was followed by virtual concerts at online iterations of [[Blue Ridge Furfare]], [[Furnal Equinox]], [[Texas Furry Fiesta]], [[Fur The More]], [[Confuzzled]] and [[Nordic Fuzzcon]].

:However, against all odds she announced she would be going on a 6 convention tour during late summer 2021, starting with [[Megaplex 2021]] where she performed only her second-ever concert on a convention main stage. As well, she also made a surprise appearance in [[Pepper Coyote]]'s concert which was ironically called "Alone in Florida", where she was let to sing 2 songs before being joined by Pepper to debut their new collaboration "Raise A Glass" for the first time publicly. A song she herself penned. The song will not be released until ANW 2021.

:Immediately after she went to [[Furrydelphia 2021]], where she performed another concert, this time on a smaller scale, as well as doing her signature Transformation Chat panel and her SurviFur game spontaneously in the con's board game room. She also participated in the talent show and dance competition, despite missing the auditions for the latter.

:Next up was [[DenFur 2021]] where she did yet another small-scale concert, Transformation Chat, and SurviFur, which unfortunately was scheduled for 10am, to which she protested and ultimately bailed on, later learning there had been 18 people waiting at the panel room to play. She considers it her biggest regret of the tour. She also participated in the dance competition yet again, opening the show but the wrong version of her song was played.

:Fourth was [[Texas Furry Siesta 2021]], another first-time convention but second-time hotel as it was in the same venue as [[Texas Furry Fiesta 2020]]. Despite not performing a concert, she still managed to run a season of SurviFur in the prematurely dismantled Game room. It was the second and final season she ran during the tour. There was no dance competition.

:Fifth came [[Tails and Tornadoes 2021]], becoming not just her first attendance but her first time in the state of Oklahoma. Despite an unfortunate start on Friday, she came back in full swing and went on to run another tf panel, place 3rd in the Dance Competition (becoming her first ever placement in a dance comp), and be an auctioneer at the charity auction. She also made her second guest appearance in a [[Pepper Coyote]] concert where they yet again performed "Raise A Glass".

:And the final con stop on her tour was [[Furvana 2021]]. As a last hurrah, she judged the dance comp in a suit and helped auctioneer the charity auction once more. There was also a tf panel on the beach for the ten people who could find them there. Once done the con she attempted to cross the border back to Canada without a negative COVID test, was denied, and ended up with a warning and having to spend $250 USD on an accepted rapid test. She finally returned to Canada on September 14.

:Far from done with conventions in 2021, she made [[Biggest Little Fur Con 2021]] her next stop. Her first time attending, she made her mark with a concert on the Second Stage where she performed for the full hour in full fursuit for the first time. There was also another performance of "Raise A Glass" with Pepper Coyote during his 18+ Charity concert.

:Next came another double feature; [[Howloween 2021]] as a post-Halloween mini-con, where she ran her arguably most engaging iteration of SurviFur to date (which was won by a returning player from the very first infamous season of SurviFur that went unfinished, Sora), ran and hosted the dance competition, and DJed live for the first time on her Windows XP Gateway laptop. And then the next weekend was [[Anthro Northwest 2021]], which was arguably the con she had the least responsibilities at of all year. She and Pepper sang "Raise A Glass" yet again during his concert but that was basically all she did. She spent most of the weekend suiting and meeting up with friends.

:The 10th and final con she attended in 2021 was of course [[Midwest Fur Fest 2021]]. Here she did her 7th and final concert of the year, this time in a panel room and not on a stage, but she brought posters to the con to advertise and worked her butt off letting people at this massive con know about the random panel room concert. This ultimately ended with her concert having 88 registered attendees on Sched.<ref>[https://mff2021.sched.com/event/pqYC/cassidy-civet-in-concert Cassidy Civet in Concert!] - Midwest FurFest 2021, Sched. Accessed November 14, 2022.</ref> There were about a dozen patreon supporters in attendance.

* 2022 - Cassidy's first con of 2022 was scheduled to be [[Further Confusion 2022]], which was to be two days after she returned from San Marino/Italy from her Eurovision Song Contest 2022 audition. FC 2022 was unfortunately canceled as what many see as the final canceled con from COVID.

:Now officially kicking off 2022 with another tour, although smaller than the previous year's tour, she began with [[VancouFur 2022]], her home con. Returning as staff, she was in charge of the Dance Competition and Talent Show, as well as her concert (immediately following the talent show), SurviFur, and the TF Chat.

:Next, she took a greyhound to Seattle from Vancouver, flying to Vegas briefly before heading to [[Blue Ridge Furfare]] 2022. It was her first time in either Vegas or North Carolina, and she came out swinging with a concert, a TF meet, and a dance comp performance. She also ran an impromptu game of SurviFur which had it's first ever superfan winner.

:Flying from Raleigh to Dallas, the next stop on her tour was [[Furry Fiesta 2022]]! She was not asked to return as a dance comp judge and ultimately decided to sit out the comp without even auditioning. She ran her concert, TF meet, and SurviFur, all without a hitch.

:The last stop on her trip was up in Detroit for [[Motor City Fur Con]] 2022! Her first time at this con, she had the least to do of any con she's been at recently. She didn't even enter the dance comp. This was definitely a rest con for her, and a quiet way to end her tour after 3 weekends of running tf meets, concerts, and SurviFur.

:After a two-week break post-tour, she embarked on her next con; [[Fur Squared]] 2022! She had much more to do at this con, running a concert, one of the most successful SurviFur seasons so far (crowning the second Superfan), her first joint tf the panel with another tf enthusiast panelist, and the biggest of her events; the dance competition! She brought her audience voting tactics to F2 and the crowd loved it. It was her first time at that con and in Wisconsin as well.

:Just a week before she flew out to her first [[Furry Weekend Atlanta]], her televised appearance during [[Canada's Got Talent]] premiered.<ref>[https://cgt.citytv.com/cassidy-civet/]</ref> It was brief, and she released a YouTube video with more information on her experience on the show.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAKlRj3NKUU]</ref>

:Then, it was time for FWA 22! Her first time at the con, or being in Georgia for more than a layover. She put on a panel room concert, SurviFur and her tf meet.

:Next was [[Biggest Little Fur Con]] 2022 in Reno! She flew in to Las Vegas, making the 8-hour scenic drive through gold rush era ghost towns, as well as Tonopah, which was once the home of [[Stalking Cat]]. Once in Reno, she did a concert on the Third stage (bumped from the Second stage in 2021 without explanation, this was contested by her and others with accusations of favoritism lobbied at staff), her tf panel, and SurviFur while staying out of the dance comp after failing to make it past auditions in 2021.

:Receiving word that she did not secure performances or panels at [[Anthrocon 2022]], she abruptly canceled her trip and attendance. She decided to save her AC debut for another year. Instead, she went on a brief 4th of July weekend trip to Salt Lake City.

:In mid-July came the next con; [[Fur-Eh! 2022]]! Driving over the Rockies in a 4-7 car convoy on the way over, splitting the trip over 2 days both ways. She ran her concert and SurviFur with ease, also participating in the dance competition and talent show, the latter of which she placed 2nd in for the second year in a row. She performed a cover of Run To The Hills by Klara Hammarstrom.

:At last, finally, the 6 con tour.! Starting with [[Megaplex 2022]], Cassidy ran her concert and SurviFur once again, albeit skipping the dance comp again this year. Despite her enjoyment of the con, the move to her birthday weekend in September 2023 puts her attendance in jeopardy.

:Second was a long flight from Orlando to Winnipeg for [[Wild Prairie Fur Con]] 2022, which had invited her to be GoH for the following year! Becoming the first con to ever lock her in as a GoH, and the first con in Canada to do so. She successfully ran her TF meet, and a scheduling clash with SurviFur kept her out of the dance comp despite the con's best efforts to accommodate her.

:Third came [[DenFur 2022]], the flight which involved a layover in Vancouver for an hour. Cassidy came back stronger than ever, running her trinity of SurviFur, TF Meet, and Concert (still not on mainstage). Though she did skip the dance comp this year. After the con, she spent a few days in Georgetown, Colorado with her friend Stoney Skunk.

:Fourth was [[IndyFurCon]] 2022, a surprise addition to her tour schedule. Originally planning to return to Furrydelphia, discovering she had not been given a single panel or event the Monday after Megaplex 2022 ended, she was unsure how to process that until that same morning, she was contacted by former IFC chair [[Pandez]] in regards to a potential GoH role for 2023. Conveniently, Furrydelphia and IFC were the same weekend, so with some easy Southwest flight changes, she redirected her sights onto her debut IFC. While she didn't run any events due to the last-minute nature of her attendance, she did leave a memorable performance out on the dance floor in the dance comp. As expected though she didn't place. Her roommate at this con was the winner of SurviFur: Blue Ridge FurFare. Ultimately IFC would become the second American con to court her for a Guest of Honor role and back out without a contract.

:Fifth was her return to [[Tails and Tornadoes]] 2022! Rooming with a (now former) Patreon supporter this time, she only ran her SurviFur competition. Due to scheduling mix-ups, her TF Meet was not given a panel slot. She sat out the dance comp despite requests from staff and attendees who remembered her 3rd place finish the year before, as it remains her only dance comp placement she didn't want to tarnish that legacy. She did return as a charity auctioneer for Sunday's charity auction, where the power went out halfway through. She spent the days after the con at an airbnb near Route 66 and a Sonic Drive-In, in what she said was her favorite stay of the trip.

:Lastly comes con #6; [[Furry Migration]] 2022! Another debut con for her this tour, she was able to really end it with a bang. Running her TF Meet, as well as her most successful concert and SurviFur of the tour and for the latter, of all time! 27 people had to be turned away from SurviFur, as it was only the second time ever the panel has been placed on a Saturday, the demand was overwhelming. No dance comp again for her, but a very fun and well-run con to close out her trip with. It was determined mid-trip as well that she would be taking a pass on making her Confuror debut this year as she did not have the budget nor time required.

:And finally, the last con was attended in 2022; [[Howloween 2022]]. She did not anticipate this to be the last, as she was expecting to attend MFF as well. However, after a complete wipeout of many of the fandom's musicians and panelists from the schedule, she canceled her attendance out of protest. So no 10 cons this year, but Howl was still a smashing success. Running her first open-door room party in a con-sanctioned party block, her weekend was plenty busy. Running the dance comp once again, as well as the first-ever sequel season of SurviFur, capped off with a casual transformation meet.

:2023 - Beginning her year with back-to-back con appearances in January, beginning with the action-packed return of [[Further Confusion 2023]]. Where Cassidy hosted her trio of events; SurviFur, the TF Meet, and her concert. She also participated in the dance competition and returned to FC: Unleashed after winning the virtual iteration in 2021. Making her way back home, the following weekend was the 14-month return of [[Anthro Northwest]] 2023, keeping her on the west coast of the US. Cassidy had all her events rejected from the con, and so spent the weekend mostly chilling with local Seattle friends. She also entered the dance comp.

:Then on January 22, she flew from Vancouver to Bologna, Italy, where she would enter Una Voce Per San Marino for the second time. She would spend 40 days in Europe, visiting the aforementioned San Marino, as well as the Netherlands (Amsterdam), England (London and Dover), France (Calais and Paris), Switzerland (Lucerne), and Italy (Bologna, Venice, Florence, Naples, Pompeii, and Rome). After receiving her non-advancement notice from UVPSM, she spent the rest of her trip in Rossano Veneto/Padova with her extended Italian family before flying home on February 28.

:With only a day for a turnaround, her March tour began with [[VancouFur 2023]], where she ran all 3 of her usual events to relative normalcy. As a result of the bomb threat however, her concert was reduced from an hour in its own timeslot to a half-hour intermission before the results of the Cutie Pageant were revealed (where she was also a last-minute judge). She also participated in her first VF Dance comp after years of running and judging it in the past, as it was run by Seattle Furs this year.

:Opting not to take a break and skip a con weekend, she flew down from Vancouver to St. Louis, Missouri for [[Gateway FurMeet]] 2023! Her first time in the city for more than just a layover, she ran all 3 of her usual events at this con. She also participated in the dance comp and her first fur-lesque show, the latter raising $200 for Charity in their inaugural show. She stayed at a hotel near the airport after the con, walking to the nearby bowling alley for a fur meet on the Wednesday night after GFM.

:Flying from St. Louis, the next con to come was [[Furnal Equinox 2023]], her debut at the largest furry convention in Canada! Also having rejected all her panels before sending a convincingly forward email to the programming team, the chair stepped in to get her a concert at the very least. On the second stage with very minimal AV/concert capabilities, she made due as best she could and delivered on a full hour of fursuit performance and original music. She would then also go on to perform in full fursuit for the yearly Fursuit Masquerade talent show, where she would win her first-ever competition at a fur con. However, due to her jokes made about the technical support (or lack thereof) her concert received from the con during her show, Cassidy would discover the following morning just minutes before the dance comp final that the AV crew had filed multiple complaints about her, succeeding in getting her removed from the dance comp after she qualified through the auditions. Thankfully she filmed the entire show and plans to post it and a storytime video telling the tale of her first FE to YouTube soon.

:Ending her March tour without a bang but a whimper came to the final con; [[Motor City Furry Con]] 2023. Another con was that had rejected all of her events, leaving her with nothing but a dance comp participation to show for her attendance. She mostly spent the weekend with friends and locals, remaining low-key except for the first day, when during opening ceremonies a bomb threat was emailed to the con venue. Upon an hours-long evacuation and police search, she conducted a highly cited radio interview with a local radio station. Despite the positive portrayal of the fandom and well-spoken nature of the exchange, it still divided opinion as to whether she should've stepped up to speak on the unfolding events regarding the incident.<ref>https://www.audacy.com/wwjnewsradio/news/local/motor-city-furry-con-in-ypsilanti-evacuated-due-to-alleged-bomb-threat</ref>

:With her next two cons in a row being Canadian, she made her annual return to [[Fur-Eh! 2023]], where she ran her usual trio of events. However, her concert was scheduled at the same time as the fursuit dance competition, thus making her unable to participate. She did manage to sell a record number of CDs at her show despite this though. This season of SurviFur also marked the first-ever returnee winner (the player previously played in Winnipeg at WPFC 2022, where they placed 8th).

:The next Canadian con was [[Wild Prairie Fur Con]] 2023 about a month later, the very first convention to ask and confirm Cassidy as a "guest of honor"! She ran a record number of panels at this event, from her standard 3 (TF Meet, Concert, and SurviFur) to her first vore meet and a meet about being authentically furry in daily life. She also had her first-ever solo dealers' den table as part of her GOH agreement, as well as her first time DJing twice. SurviFur this con would be the first season to include 3 returning winners playing again amidst 4 returnees. The con would ultimately pass its previous bests for attendance and charity.

:Following WPFC 2023, she began her 4-week con tour in America! The first stop was an unfortunate [[DenFur]] 2023, where she was immediately targeted by the con's board AEIOU. After receiving a monologue from the board chair about how she wasn't allowed to distribute business cards as they were "advertising something outside of con space" despite being just for furry music promotion, she knew her remaining time was ticking, and she was banned Friday night just before her song in karaoke. She spent the remainder of the con mostly in her hotel room and spent the days after the con in Colorado Springs with a fellow civet.

:Up next was [[Furrydelphia]] 2023! Making her return after 2 years, she would run SurviFur as an official panel at con after first running it as a bootleg event in the game room in 2021. She would audition for the dance competition but failed to make it through prelims. After the con, she took a train to Connecticut in a side quest to meet her lifelong idol and inspiration, [[W:Mercer Mayer|Mercer Mayer]], and while successful in connecting with his production company, was ultimately unsuccessful in her endeavor to meet him before flying to Tulsa.

:Marking the first American con she's done fully for 3 consecutive years, she returned to [[Tails and Tornadoes]] for 2023! After some unrelated social media drama, the con was harassed into removing all of Cassidy's panels. This decision would be reversed however as attendees at Con spoke up in her favor, and her SurviFur panel was reinstated on Friday night. This would prove significant as it would become the first season to run with less than the desired 12 players (running with 10 as it was reinstated so last-minute word hadn't spread) as well as crowning the first-ever 2-time winner!

:Immediately after TTFC, she was supposed to meet a friend in Seattle but they were delayed at Burning Man and other plans had to be arranged. Once they made it back home on Thursday, it was time for [[Furvana]] 2023! Another hat trick of attendance as Cassidy has attended all iterations of the so far only bi-annual con in existence. She ran her TF Meet and SurviFur, the latter of which had one of the most memorable seasons to date despite running on Sunday afternoon against the dance competition.

== Music ==
Cassidy is a musician who frequently publishes songs in a variety of genres, most specifically songs in her favorite genres of [[W:Pop Music|Pop Music]], [[W:Electronic_dance_music|EDM]] and [[W:Adult Contemporary|Adult Contemporary]]. She has said her least favorite genre is classical or instrumental music because of the personal touches that can be applied to songs with singers and lyrics, though this has been misconstrued into controversy. As a piano player, she arranges and composes her own music, though she'd much rather be the vocal presence on her songs singing the lyrics she wrote. She finally released her debut album on February 29, 2020, under her furry name.

A devoted Eurofan since 2014, Cassidy has been submitting for the [[W:Eurovision Song Contest|Eurovision Song Contest]]. Submitting annually since 2015, for a rotating series of countries including [[W:Norway In The Eurovision Song Contest|Norway]], [[Wikipedia:San Marino In The Eurovision Song Contest|San Marino]], [[W:Azerbaijan In The Eurovision Song Contest|Azerbaijan]], [[W:Armenia In The Eurovision Song Contest|Armenia]], [[W:Czech Republic In The Eurovision Song Contest|Czech Republic]], [[W:Poland In The Eurovision Song Contest|Poland]], [[W:Switzerland In The Eurovision Song Contest|Switzerland]], [[W:Macedonia In The Eurovision Song Contest|Macedonia]], [[W:Ireland In The Eurovision Song Contest|Ireland]], [[W:Malta In The Eurovision Song Contest|Malta]] and [[W:Moldova In The Eurovision Song Contest|Moldova]]. She's continuing to write and submit new music for the contest, working with foreign musicians as well. On May 12, 2020, she became the first ever fursuit in the 60+ year history of Eurovision to be featured in the Eurovision Song Contest, being shown in the first and second ever fan recap for the Semi-Finals since the event had been canceled by the COVID-19 pandemic<ref>[https://youtu.be/MShqokz743U?t=116]. Retrieved May 12, 2020.</ref><ref>[https://youtu.be/PB8MgtkTQV0?t=114]. Retrieved May 14, 2020.</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-iqouVsPiE]. Retrieved May 13, 2020.</ref>. She also auditioned for [[Wi:San Marino In The Eurovision Song Contest 2022|San Marino]], flying all the way from Vancouver to Bologna, Italy with a layover in Paris. This was her first time ever in Europe. Ultimately the audition was not successful, however, as the microstate chose to pursue a song in Italian instead. She returned to UVPSM in 2023, and once again did not make it through the auditions round.

Aside from appearing in fursuit at Eurovision, she was one of the hundreds of fans who submitted their voice to be used in the entry from [[W:Iceland In The Eurovision Song Contest 2021|Iceland]] at the 2021 contest while the use of prerecorded backing vocals was still permitted. Making her the first and so far only furry to have their voice heard at the contest in an official entry.<ref>[https://twitter.com/dadimakesmusic/status/1396154174287532036?lang=en]. Retrieved May 22, 2021.</ref>

Her songwriting efforts have begun to pay off as [[Klace]] approached her to write a furry Pop [[Triple Threat|album]] to accompany the release of his third game ''Komorebi''. The first promotional single "Stay The Night" was released on May 12, 2023, on Spotify, and is the first time Cassidy has worked as a songwriter for a song she did not sing or record herself. The album consisted of 8 songs all written by her<ref>[https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/klace/komorebi]. Retrieved November 9, 2021.</ref> and was released on July 21.

==Discography==
===Studio albums===
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;"
! scope="col"| Title
! scope="col"| Details
|-)
! scope="row"| ''[[Double Take]]''
|
* Released: February 29, 2020
* Label: Civet Society, Independent
* Format: Streaming, digital download, CD
|-
|-)
! scope="row"| ''[[Cruel Oasis|cruel oasis]]''
|
* Released: August 4, 2023
* Label: Civet Society, Independent
* Format: Streaming, digital download, CD
|-
|}

===Singles===
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! scope="col" rowspan="1"| Title
! scope="col" rowspan="1"| Year
! scope="col" rowspan="1"| Album
|-
! scope="row"| [[Comfort Zone]]
| 2018
| [[Double Take]]
|-
! scope="row"| [[Let Your Heart Take Flight]]
| rowspan="2"| 2019
| n/a
|-
! scope="row"| [[Moonlight]]
| [[Double Take]]
|-
! scope="row"| [[Sakura]]
| 2020
| rowspan="4"| ''[[cruel oasis]]''
|-
! scope="row"| [[Black Wolf]]
| rowspan="2"| 2021
|-
! scope="row"| [[Raise A Glass]]<br><small>(feat. [[Pepper Coyote]])</small>
|-
! scope="row"| Pass You
| 2022
|-
! scope="row"| [[Hullabaloo]]
| rowspan="3"| 2023
| n/a
|-
! scope="row"| cry forever
| rowspan="2"| ''[[Cruel Oasis|cruel oasis]]''
|-
! scope="row"| Light Up The Room
|-
|}

===Promotional singles===
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! scope="col" rowspan="1"| Title
! scope="col" rowspan="1"| Year
! scope="col" rowspan="1"| Note(s)
|-
! scope="row"| ''Stay the Night''
| 2022
| Songwriting only; for Klace's "[[Triple Threat]]" EP
|-
! scope="row"| ''Cheshire Cat''
| 2023
| Con Theme for [[Wild Prairie Fur Con]] 2023
|-
|}

==Filmography==
===Movies===
{| class="wikitable unsortable"
|-
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Notes
|-
| 2016
| ''[[Rufus|Rufus]]''
| Prom Scene Extra
| Made for TV Film
|-
| 2017
| ''[[Wonder|Wonder]]''
| Cafeteria Extra
| Theatrical Film
|-
| 2017
| ''[[Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library|Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library]]''
| Crowd Extra
| Made for TV Film
|-
| 2017
| ''[[Descendants 2|Descendants 2]]''
| Isle of the Lost Extra
| Made for TV Film
|-
| 2018
| ''[[Freaky Friday (2018 Film)|Freaky Friday]]''
| Extra
| Made for TV Film
|-
| 2018
| ''[[Blurt|Blurt]]''
| School Extra
| Made for TV Film
|-
| 2018
| ''[[Summer of 84|Summer of 84]]''
| Bowling Alley Extra
| Feature Film
|-
| 2019
| ''[[Descendants 3|Descendants 3]]''
| Isle of the Lost Extra
| Made for TV Film
|-
| 2019
| ''[[Noelle|Noelle]]''
| Arizona Mall Extra
| Made for Disney+ Film
|-
| 2019
| ''[[Kim Possible (2019 Film)|Kim Possible]]''
| High School Extra
| Made for TV Film
|-
| 2020
| ''[[A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting]]''
| School and Party Extra
| Netflix Movie
|-
|}

===Television===
{| class="wikitable unsortable"
|-
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Notes
|-
| 2020 & 2021
| ''[[Eurovision]]''
| Fursuiter in Recaps
| YouTube Exclusive
|-
| 2020
| ''[[The Good Doctor]]''
| Extra
| TV Show
|-
| 2021
| ''[[Sabrina Part 4]]''
| Baxter High Student (episodes 1, 3, 4, and 5)
| Netflix Show
|-
| 2022
| ''[[Canada's Got Talent]]''
| Contestant (episodes 1, 2, and 6)
| CityTV
|-
|}

== Controversy ==
At [[Furnal Equinox 2023]], Cassidy was cut from the dance competition last minute<ref>[https://twitter.com/CassidyTheCivet/status/1637512872434753536 Cassidy stating she had been cut from Furnal Equinox 2023’s Dance Competition] on Twitter. Retrieved Nov 26, 2023.</ref>, due to comments{{clarify}} made by Cassidy earlier in the convention that had been a cause for concern to staff.<ref>[https://twitter.com/CassidyTheCivet/status/1651786622101512199 Cassidy’s take on what happened with the FE 2023 Dance Competition] on Twitter. Retrieved Nov 26, 2023.</ref> No comment was made from Furnal Equinox about the incident.

On April 27, 2023, after previously being announced as the IndyFurCon 2023 Guest of Honor, Cassidy was disinvited by the convention for being GoH. <ref>[https://twitter.com/IndyFurCon/status/1651715346179448833 ''Press Release April 27th, 2023''] post by [[IndyFurCon]]'s Twitter account. Retrieved April 30, 2023.</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/CassidyTheCivet/status/1651723876802650112 ''I feel completely blindsided.''] post by Cassidy's Twitter account. Retrieved April 30, 2023.</ref>

At Denfur 2023, Cassidy was banned from the convention. According to Cassidy, the ban was for soliciting con attendees for merchandise sales, despite not having a dealer’s table at the convention. <ref>[https://twitter.com/CassidyTheCivet/status/1693391214148755851 Cassidy detailing her ban from Denfur on their Twitter account.] Retrieved November 26th, 2023.</ref> Denfur has not made a public statement about the ban.

== Trivia ==
Cassidy also has a more general interest in art, particularly drawing and directing. She attended a summer course on Animation in 2016 which taught her some things, but mostly put her skills into perspective. She has taken on a new creative role as the director and partial storyboard artist for her upcoming animated music videos, as well as the early beginnings of a 2D animated feature film.

Cassidy writes reviews and commentary for ''[[Flayrah]]''.<ref>[https://www.flayrah.com/u/cassidythecivet CassidyTheCivet's profile] on ''[[Flayrah]]''. Retrieved July 3, 2017.</ref>

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==
* [https://cassidythecivet.deviantart.com/ Cassidy Civet] on [[DeviantArt]]
* [https://www.furaffinity.net/user/CassidyTheCivet Cassidy Civet] on [[Fur Affinity]]
* [https://www.flayrah.com/u/cassidythecivet Cassidy Civet] on ''[[Flayrah]]''
* [https://twitter.com/CassidyTheCivet Cassidy Civet] on [[X (social media)|X]]

=== Music ===
* [https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cassidy-civet/1356460141 Cassidy Civet] on [[W:Apple Music|Apple Music]]
* [https://music.amazon.com/artists/B07B9KST43/cassidy-civet Cassidy Civet] on [[W:Amazon Music|Amazon Music]]
* [https://cassidycivet.bandcamp.com/ Cassidy Civet] on [[W:Bandcamp|Bandcamp]]
* [https://open.spotify.com/artist/2wHYtuVAqylIWk2IVmS40l Cassidy Civet] on [[W:Spotify|Spotify]]
* [https://www.deezer.com/us/artist/14269793 Cassidy Civet] on [[W:Deezer|Deezer]]
* [https://www.shazam.com/artist/cassidy-civet/1356460141 Cassidy Civet] on [[W:Shazam (application)|Shazam]]
* [https://www.youtube.com/@CassidyCivet Cassidy Civet] on [[YouTube]]

{{Dance}}

[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Writers]]
[[Category:Musicians]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:Youtubers]]
[[Category:VancouFur staff]]
[[Category:Civet characters]]
[[Category:British Columbia]]
[[Category:1998 births]]
[[Category:Wild Prairie Fur Con guests of honour]]

User:Lumin City

2024-02-25T03:55:18Z

Lumin City: Basic autobiographical information, editing disclosures, and a tribute to Mark Merlino.

{{Personal-article|Lumin City}}

{{Infobox
|name = YouTuber
|bodystyle =
|title = Lumin City
|titlestyle =
|image = [[File:Lumin_ANE2024_Fursuit_Games.jpg|200px]]
|imagestyle =
|caption = Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin
|captionstyle =
|headerstyle = background:#ccf;
|labelstyle = background:#ddf;
|datastyle =

|header4 = Personal information
|label4 = Nationality
|data4 = American
|label5 = Other names
|data5 = Lumin, Illumination City
|label6 = Hobbies
|data6 = [[Fursuiter]]
|label7 = Species
|data7 = [[Siberian Husky]]

|header8 = YouTube information
|label9 = Channel
|data9 = [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City]
|header6 =
|label10 = Years active
|data10 = 2021-present
|label11 = Genres
|data11 = [[Wikipedia:News|News]], [[Wikipedia:Opinion_piece|commentary]]
|label12 = Subscribers
|data12 = 1.47 thousand<ref name="YouTube About">[https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity/about "About Lumin City"] [[YouTube]].</ref>
|label13 = Total views
|data13 = 218 thousand<ref name="YouTube About"/>
}}

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
| {{User YouTube}}
|-
| {{User LGBT}}
|}
</div>

I'm an [[Wikipedia:Asian_Americans|Asian-American]] [[Wikipedia:Neurodiversity|neurodivergent]] [[Transgender|non-binary]] [[fursuiter]], [[Youtuber]], and online personality from the [[Wikipedia:New_York_metropolitan_area|New York metro area]]. I'm best known for my informative and highly edited videos discussing the Fandom through a progressive lens. Don't be afraid to contact me!

== Fandom Involvement ==
I joined the Fandom in early 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, having previously watched Furry videos on the internet. I attended my first [[furmeet]] in May 2021, and my first [[furry convention]] [[Furrydelphia]] in August. I've attended numerous furmeets and furry conventions since.

=== YouTube Career ===
My YouTube channel is dedicated to improving the fandom by documenting and archiving Furry history through engaging videos. It has a progressive lean, discussing including but not limited to economic equality, education, and social justice. I make videos on Furries, Furry conventions, and the Fandom's interactions with others on the internet, both good and bad. I also discuss those trying to take advantage of the Fandom, including but not limited to non-Furry content creators disrespecting the Fandom, including harassing attendees at fur cons to get views and news platforms using the Fandom to push bigoted anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.

=== Joining WikiFur ===
While I had edited for WikiFur since December 17th, 2022, it was infrequent. Following [[Mark Merlino]]'s passing from stage IV liver cancer<ref>[https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-a-true-fandom-original "Help a True Fandom Original."] post by [[Rodney Stansfield]] on [[W:GoFundMe|GoFundMe]]. Retrieved February 9, 2024.</ref> on February 20th,<ref>[https://twitter.com/Skiltaire_Party/status/1759882242137149928 "He's gone."] post on [[The Prancing Skiltaire]]'s [[Twitter]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> watching the fandom collectively mourn his loss, including me, I started reading his Wikifur article to look back at his history. I had mentioned ConFurence, the first furry convention co-founded by Merlino and his partner, Rod O'Riley in a YouTube video on November 9th, 2021. discussing the "real" problem with furry conventions.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLbKJqoNclw "The REAL Problem With Furry Conventions (BLFC 2021)"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> However, the more I looked at his life I realized his influence went beyond ConFurence, helping found not only the Furry Fandom but also popularizing the Anime fandom.

His dedication to archiving and teaching Furry history later in life particularly struck a chord with me, as it helped in producing numerous YouTube videos, including using ConFurence to discuss how furry conventions always had issues. As a result, I've decided to volunteer my time in editing Wikifur articles to serve the next generation of Furries to be able to learn about the Fandom, but also fight back against far-right anti-LGBTQ+ stereotypes and conspiracies against the Fandom. While my main focus will be on YouTube due to having a wider reach, I'll volunteer any spare time to Wikifur whenever articles need to be improved.

=== Fursona ===
My [[fursona]] is a lime [[Siberian Husky]] named Lumin. My reference sheet was drawn by [[Pulex]] and shared on meow.social, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023.<ref>[https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525 "here's a reference sheet, drawn by pulexart.com!"] post on Lumin City's meow.social [[Mastodon]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> My profile picture featuring my fursona was drawn by the [[Furry artist]] [[feve]] on [[FurAffinity]] on January 30th.<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/ "https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/"] post on feve's [[FurAffinity]] account. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===
My [[Fursuit]], Lumin was made by [[Shellsews]]. A video unboxing and discussing my journey to having it made was uploaded to my YouTube channel on January 6th, 2024.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ag9JucHqE "Unboxing The Best Worst Fursuit & Suiting Up"] video on Lumin City's YouTube account. Published January 6, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> Lumin was first revealed at [[Anthro New England 2024]].

=== Convention Attendance ===
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|}
</div>

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2023, 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Fur the 'More]] - 2023
* [[Furcationland]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023
* [[Furrydelphia]] - 2021, 2022, 2023

== Honoring Mark Merlino ==

=== How Joe Strike Was My Mark Merlino ===
Despite having never personally met Merlino, I had met [[Joe Strike]], another early Furry who wrote two books on the fandom,<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2023/11/13/book-review-furry-planet/ "Book review – Furry Planet: A World Gone Wild is an enjoyable tour of furries around the world."] by [[Grubbs Grizzly]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published November 13, 2024. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> and was born two years earlier than Merlino. I first met him in June 2021 at an NYC movie theater furmeet watching Peter Rabbit 2. We then numerous times at various meetups and furry conventions. He started a monthly Furry and Brony meetup after being inspired by London Furs' monthly meetups that saw over a hundred Furries,<ref>[https://www.meetup.com/nyc-furries/events/295007511/ "MONTHLY FURRY/BRONY MEET-UP!"] post by Joe Strike on meetup.com. Retrieved February 24, 2024. "The London Furs have been meeting every month for years: 100+ furries gather at a friendly bar/restaurant with outdoor space to eat, drink and even suit up—and there’s no reason we New Yorkers [sic] furries and bronies can’t do the same!"</ref> which I attended several times. Our most recent encounter was at Anthro New England 2024 when I showed him my Fursuit. Merlino's passing was a reminder to appreciate the time I left with him, as it'll likely only be a few years longer.

=== The Importance of Legacy ===
'''Trigger Warning:''' This section contains detailed discussions about child abuse, mental illness, and suicide that may be distressing for some readers. I understand these topics can be difficult. If you need support, please reach out to the 988 hotline (The United States National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/suicide/suicide-prevention-hotlines-resources-worldwide your local suicide hotline,] or someone you trust. Additional resources, including mental health organizations, are also available for support.
<br><br/>
I was reminded of [[Dogbomb]]'s passing from [[Wikipedia:ALS|ALS]] back in 2019,<ref>[https://twitter.com/dogbomb1/status/1114286592737210368 "Dogbomb has left the building. / I love all y’all!"] post by Dogbomb on [[Twitter]]. Published April 5, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> two years before I joined the fandom, and [[Wikipedia:MatPat|MatPat]]'s YouTube video on July 25th, 2018 honoring Ronnie, who sadly ended his life through suicide.<ref name="Losing The Battle">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWTEE4SkCLY "Losing the Battle"] video on [[Wikipedia:The Game Theorists|The Game Theorists]] YouTube account. Published November 7, 2021. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref> I empathized with Dogbomb's struggle with ALS, and MatPat's grieving of Ronnie, as I had struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts for years before and while in the Fandom.

{{q|Ronnie, in all the years that I knew him, dealt with demons that only he could understand. Scars left by a childhood that he kept under a lock and key. ... What I can say is that he did his best to move on; to strike out on his own, to move beyond the trauma of his past. To take his mental health into his own hands, and take his recovery seriously, one step at a time, every single day.}}

I also related to MatPat's description of Ronnie's personality, resulting in his actions being perceived as malicious despite his good intentions.

{{q|That past also gave him a personality that was probably best described as... an acquired taste. He was incredibly sharp and incredibly witty, but he also had this ability to cut through a person's facade in a way that was sometimes hilarious and sometimes a bit off-putting. ... it was that same personality that, understandably, sometimes got him into trouble with people who weren't familiar with that part of him, who didn't understand that's the way he processed the world, that- that was the way he dealt with social situations, that he was a person with dark periods who had a tendency to sometimes lash out with anger. ... It wasn't an easy side to deal with, but that wasn't Ronnie. Ronnie wasn't an arrogant person, he was just socially unsure. He was unaware of how his behaviors would be perceived by others.}}

MatPat apologized for those Ronnie had hurt and didn't see "Ronnie as he really was", who hugged MatPat after their last Gamelab episode together and took pride in obscure internet trivia. I similarly had experiences in private chats, at furmeets and Furry conventions where I assisted other Furries, lent an ear to those who needed help, and gave hugs in Fursuit.

{{q|Those moments were the true Ronnie. When he was unburdened by his past. When sunlight would peek through all of the clouds. It was take a lot of patience to get there, and a lot of long conversations and phone calls. But when he got there, it was great because you knew that it was honest. And it was genuine. It was a person who was free.
}}

{{q|Ronnie told me once in the early days of the channel's history that it was his goal for his animations to be recognized and for him to be influential as an artist...}}

MatPat wanted to tell Ronnie that he achieved his goal of becoming an influential artist, making the "Game Theory style" and inspired many of The Game Theorist's editors. MatPat hoped Ronnie knew he achieved his goal, and regretted not telling him how proud he was of him, how he evolved as an artist with his elaborate animations, and created his voice, not only impacting the channel but the internet as a whole.

{{q|We're all really busy, every hour of every day around the clock. But take the opportunity to tell people what you think. How much you appreciate them, how much you love them, how proud you are of them. Even if that person is really weird in the way that they take their compliments like Ronnie often was. It'll stick. It'll land. And that compliment will really mean a lot."}}

Matpat hoped his video on Ronnie's loss would "start to break down the stigmas around talking about mental health, social anxiety, and suicide."

{{q|First, and most importantly, remember, you are never alone. Never. Even if it feels like you have no one to talk to. Even if you're talking to someone and it feels like they can't say the right thing, it's okay. It's about you not having to carry the burden yourself. It's about you NOT having to go through this alone. Keep talking, keep conversations open, because it is the single most important thing in these sorts of situations. It's about you being able to give voice to what's wrong, to what you can only experience without being judged.}}

MatPat had done fan meetups at conventions like [[Wikipedia:VidCon|VidCon]], meeting fans facing similar struggles and being honored he was the reason they continued living.

{{q|a lot of you who watch this channel go through these struggles. That you're dealing with social anxiety, with suicidal thoughts, with depression, and what I often hear from you in those stories is that this channel, this community, had helped bring you through the darkest of times, the lowest of lows. A breakup, a loss of a family member, whatever dark thoughts might be circulating through your head and that is the biggest honor for me to hear, that me nerding out in my closet somehow gave you hope to continue on, to know that you weren't alone, that your mind processes things differently and that's okay, and that other people are out there just like you. But I also recognize that this is a battle that you have to fight every day, and it's a battle that you have to WIN every single day. Ronnie fought that battle for a lot of days, and he won for a lot of days. But it only takes one loss...}}

MatPat asks viewers to share their stories with those willing to listen to them. Despite social media getting increasingly polarized, it still can unite those and give people who feel like no one will listen to them some that will. He also asks those to reach out in real life, providing various services. Most importantly though, MatPat reminds viewers that they're important, valued, and loved, even if they don't realize it, and to honor Ronnie's memory by living and talking openly and honestly with others.

{{q|don't be ashamed to have your voice be heard, to share your story out there with people who are ready and EAGER to listen to it. ... at a time when social video and social media are constantly tearing each other apart, let's remember that it has positive to offer, too. That it can unite people. That it can give people who feel like they have no one to listen to them. Someone who is there; to listen. But, also reach out in real life. There are countless numbers of services out there available to help you: Suicide hotlines, websites, therapists, people who are trained to help. ... most importantly of all, remember that you are important. That you are valued and that you are LOVED by more people than you could ever possibly think of. ... Honor his memory by living, most importantly of all, and talking openly and honestly with each other. That's most important.}}

On October 8th, 2018, seven months after DogBomb's initial [[FurAffinity]] revealing he had ALS,<ref>[https://www.furaffinity.net/journal/8648748/ "ALS Can Kiss My Fuzzy Butt"] - Fur Affinity journal by Dogbomb. Dated March 8, 2018. Retrieved March 22, 2019.</ref> [[Kijani Lion]] wrote about him for [[Dogpatch Press]]. When asked what he what is best piece of advice was Dogbomb's response was one I fully agreed with.

{{q|Bad stuff happens, it just does, and that’s okay, ... The only thing we can truly control are our own actions and reactions. If you meet challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, you’ve just beaten the universe at its own game.<ref>[https://dogpatch.press/2018/10/08/last-mutt-standing-dogbomb "'Last Mutt Standing': Dogbomb inspires the world through his courageous battle against ALS"] by [[Kijani Lion]] for ''[[Dogpatch Press]]''. Published October 8, 2018. Retrieved February 24, 2024.</ref>}}

=== Moving Forward ===

Merlino's passing has reminded me that the fandom wouldn't exist in the way it is without him, being inclusive and accepting of those outcasted by society, especially those LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent. It reaffirmed my belief that beyond appreciating anthropomorphic animals, this is what the fandom is truly about. With the rise in far-right anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, especially toward the fandom, it's now more important than ever for us to be united against such bigotry, instead of continuing to tear ourselves apart.

I hope to continue Merlino's legacy by introducing new members to the fandom through my work, archiving Furry history, and keep fighting the stigma against the LGBTQ+ community, especially the transgender community. I want to inspire the next generation of Furries for the next few decades and leave my mark on the fandom that is just as impactful as Merlino's. The fandom has been around for almost four decades, and I hope we can continue it for another four and beyond.

== Gallery ==
<gallery caption="Fursona Pictures" widths="250px" heights="250px">
File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png|Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin drawn by [[Pulex]].
File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png|Lumin City's profile picture drawn by feve.
</gallery>

== To-Do List ==
* [[Midwest FurFest 2023]]
** [https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/wall-of-flippers-detects-flipper-zero-bluetooth-spam-attacks/ Flipper Zero Disruption]
** [https://www.pcgamer.com/fake-valve-prism-vr-headset-website-is-a-prank-based-on-an-extremely-specific-joke-from-the-2023-midwest-furfest-furry-convention/ Valve Prism Prank]
* [https://twitter.com/PatrickSnowyote/status/1749842584199913903 Anthro New England 2024's Photo Restriction Controversy]

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://www.youtube.com/@LuminCity Lumin City] on [[YouTube]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/user/LuminCity/fursuiting Lumin City] on [[FurTrack]]
* [https://www.furtrack.com/index/character:lumin_(husky) Lumin City's Fursuit] on [[FurTrack]]

File:Lumin Fursona Reference Sheet.png

2024-02-25T00:03:07Z

Lumin City: Lumin City's reference sheet of their fursona Lumin, drawn by Pulex and posted to Lumin City's meow.social account, a Mastodon instance on January 5th, 2023. https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525

== Summary ==
Lumin City's [[reference sheet]] of their [[fursona]] Lumin, drawn by [[Pulex]] and posted to Lumin City's meow.social account, a [[Mastodon]] instance on January 5th, 2023. https://meow.social/@LuminCity/109638066199692525
== Licensing ==
{{fursona}}

File:Lumin ANE2024 Fursuit Games.jpg

2024-02-24T23:52:54Z

Lumin City: Lumin City uploaded a new version of "File:Lumin ANE2024 Fursuit Games.jpg"

== Summary ==
Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin, at [[Anthro New England 2024]]'s [[Fursuit Games]] looking at the camera getting their photo taken by [[Jasper The Lion]], who uploaded it to [[FurTrack]].
https://www.furtrack.com/p/474395
== Licensing ==
{{Permission-wikifurries}}

File:Lumin ANE2024 Fursuit Games.jpg

2024-02-24T23:45:29Z

Lumin City: Adjusted the capitalization for FurTrack.

File:Lumin ANE2024 Fursuit Games.jpg

2024-02-24T23:35:33Z

Lumin City: Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin, at Anthro New England 2024's Fursuit Games looking at the camera getting their photo taken by Jasper The Lion, who uploaded it to Furtrack. https://www.furtrack.com/p/474395

== Summary ==
Lumin City's Fursuit, Lumin, at [[Anthro New England 2024]]'s [[Fursuit Games]] looking at the camera getting their photo taken by [[Jasper The Lion]], who uploaded it to [[Furtrack]].
https://www.furtrack.com/p/474395
== Licensing ==
{{Permission-wikifurries}}

File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png

2024-02-24T23:23:24Z

Lumin City: /* Summary */ Adjusted capitalization and wording.

== Summary ==
Lumin City's profile picture drawn by the Furry artist feve on FurAffinity.
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/

== Licensing ==
{{fursona}}

Template:User LGBT

2024-02-24T23:18:04Z

Lumin City: Adjusted the text to add "community" at the end of LGBT.

{{Userbox
|logo = [[File:LGBT flag logo.png|45x45px]]
|info = This user is a member of the '''[[LGBT]]''' community. {{#if:{{{1|}}}|Their username is <span class="plainlinks">[https://gaycenter.org/{{{1}}} {{{1}}}]</span>.}}
|border-color = #D0D0D0
|info-background = #F0F0F0
|logo-background = #FFFFFF
}}<includeonly>
{{{category|[[Category:LGBT Wikifurries|{{PAGENAME}}]]}}}
</includeonly>
<noinclude>

This Template contains a Userbox for all LGBT furs who want to show it.
The usage of this Template is very simple:
<pre><nowiki>
{{User LGBT}}
</nowiki></pre>
[[Category:User infobox templates|{{PAGENAME}}]]
</noinclude>

Template:User LGBT

2024-02-24T22:15:14Z

Lumin City: Removed "a member of" for conciseness.

{{Userbox
|logo = [[File:LGBT flag logo.png|45x45px]]
|info = This user is '''[[LGBT]]'''. {{#if:{{{1|}}}|Their username is <span class="plainlinks">[https://gaycenter.org/{{{1}}} {{{1}}}]</span>.}}
|border-color = #D0D0D0
|info-background = #F0F0F0
|logo-background = #FFFFFF
}}<includeonly>
{{{category|[[Category:LGBT Wikifurries|{{PAGENAME}}]]}}}
</includeonly>
<noinclude>

This Template contains a Userbox for all LGBT furs who want to show it.
The usage of this Template is very simple:
<pre><nowiki>
{{User LGBT}}
</nowiki></pre>
[[Category:User infobox templates|{{PAGENAME}}]]
</noinclude>

User:GreenReaper

2024-02-24T21:48:11Z

Lumin City: Fixed two links as the domains have since expired and now redirect to a Vietnamese gambling website.

{{LinkingSupporter}}{{supporter}}[[File:Greenreaperprofile-67-150.png|left|GreenReaper]]
Hi - I'm '''[[GreenReaper]]'''! You may remember me from such places as the [[Creatures:|Creatures Wiki]], and [[Wikipedia:User:GreenReaper|Wikipedia]].

I am the founder and [[WikiFur:Colleagues|custodian]] of [[WikiFur]], so if you have any problems or questions, '''[[User talk:GreenReaper|let me know]]'''!

Please understand that this site, like [[Wikipedia]], runs by the [[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Consensus|consensus]] of its users, so sometimes it is necessary for me to ask them what they think before acting. I am not a [https://web.archive.org/web/20090815013203/http://www.usemod.com/cgi-bin/mb.pl?GodKing GodKing], nor a [https://web.archive.org/web/20091015180151/http://www.usemod.com/cgi-bin/mb.pl?BenevolentDictator Benevolent Dictator]. I '''do''' try to lead, though - if only because ''someone'' has to take the flack! '''*grins*'''

I've identified as [[furry]] (originally [[scaly]]) since I was 17 or so - perhaps earlier - but I'm still relatively new to the community side of the [[furry fandom]] (although I've learnt a lot since I started here!). As a result, I can often avoid taking a position over contentious historical topics, as I don't know enough about it to join in! This works out quite nicely, as (in my view) the best way to make a good page is to let people argue about it until they figure out a version of the article that is equally distasteful, and I have more important things to be doing than argue. ;-)

I am a strong believer in the view that the furry fandom has a [[Wikipedia:Manifest Destiny|Manifest Destiny]]. I think that working together we can build the fandom into something that is truly great; a friendly, welcoming community of creative fans that stretches [[Wikipedia:From sea to shining sea|from sea to shining sea]], and beyond. I believe that WikiFur is a step towards that goal, and I thank those of you who have decided to join us.

<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Midwest FurFest}}
|-
|{{User Anthrocon}}
|-
|{{User Further Confusion}}
|-
|{{User FWA}}
|-
|{{User Administrator}}
|-
|{{User Welcomer}}
|-
|{{user IRC|GreenReaper}}
|-
|{{User Funday PawPet Show}}
|-
|{{User Second Life}}
|-
|{{User Inkbunny Name|greenreaper}}
|-
|{{User Fur Affinity Name|greenreaper}}
|-
|{{User DeviantArt Name|greenreaper}}
|}
</div>
== To-do list ==

* Think about ways to select articles for publication ([[WikiFur:Featured articles|featured articles]], obviously, but what else?)
**[[WikiFur:Did you know?]] seems to work reasonably well for new stuff
**[[WikiFur:Comic of the Week|Comic of the Week]] should be fairly easy to maintain
* Consider the appropriate use of new MediaWiki 1.5 features like [[Wikicities:Help:Inputbox|infobox/preload]] ([[m:Help:Inputbox|more info]] - news articles? welcome templates?)
* Consider implementing questions or shoutout box via techniques at [[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Help desk|help desk]] and [[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Reference desk|reference desk]]
**''Ask a furry question, get a furry answer''?
* Rework [[Anthrochat]]/[[FurNet (IRC)]]/[[Something Awful]] [http://en.wikifur.com/wiki/User_talk:GreenReaper/Policy3#SAfurs_topic_vs_Furnet_IRC]
* Investigate [[w:c:Muppet|Muppet Wiki]] social mechanisms, notably [[w:c:Muppet:Category:Active Talk Pages|active talk pages]].
** We can use modified namespace versions of Recent changes for this
* Archive talk page ''again''
* More timelines
* [[/Press releases]]
* [[WikiFur/Wikipedia version]]
* Convert category links on front page to portals?
** Use {{lj-comm|fursuit}} [http://www.livejournal.com/tools/memories.bml?user=fursuit community memories] to improve articles and provide tips, with backlinks.
* Consider moving WikiFur News to separate site, with News: interwiki.
* Actually research and write some stuff (I swear, it's never gonna happen ;-)
** [[/Your Con Dollars At Work]] - a detailed picture of convention finances, contrasting the differing approaches of each event
* ''[[/Naked Came The Furry|Naked Came The Furry]]'' - one paraphilia per chapter, collaborative editing?
* [[/Summer2012furrymedia]]
* Eastern European mini-conventions and meets: [[Randomcon]] (''Рандомкон'') [https://vk.com/randomcon] (delayed to December 2015 and maybe never happened), [[CrimeaFurCon]] (''КрымФурКон'') [https://vk.com/crimeanfurrycon] (definitely did happen, once)
* [https://twipla.jp/events/96470 Japanese furry events] on Twipla
{{furcode|FG[Kai norn]2admr A C++ D+ H+ M+++ P R+ T W- Z- Sf++ RLCT a32 cnl++++$ d++ e++ f+ h+ iwf+++ j p- sm+}}

==Favourite quotes==
[[Image:GR MFF2005 fireeyes norn sculpture.jpg|right|thumb|[[GreenReaper]] by [[fireEyes]]]]
*''Every click you take, every stub you make, every link you break, every change you make, I'll be watching you...''
*''There is great strength in numbers, but there is great power in one, for the strength of the will of one may gather numbers to it. There is strength not only in '''knowing''' the self, but '''knowing''' how to bring it forth in others.
[[Category:Wikifurries]]

==See also==
*[[User:GreenReaper/Thoughts on privacy|Thoughts on privacy]]
*[[User:GreenReaper/Wikia Brand Survey|Wikia brand survey answers]]

[[Category:WikiFur custodians]]

[[da:Bruger:GreenReaper]]
[[de:Benutzer:GreenReaper]]
[[es:Usuario:GreenReaper]]
[[fi:Käyttäjä:GreenReaper]]
[[hu:Szerkesztő:GreenReaper]]
[[pl:Użytkownik:GreenReaper]]
[[pt:Usuário:GreenReaper]]
[[ru:Участник:GreenReaper]]
[[sv:Användare:GreenReaper]]

BlueFolf

2024-02-24T20:36:41Z

Lumin City: /* Extenal links */ Fixed typo in the header.

[[File:BlueFolf Holding A BlueFolf Plushie.jpeg|thumb|right|BlueFolf holding a plushie of her fursona, made by @[[BuildAFur]].]]
BlueFolf is a 19-year-old female transgender Furry and [[fursuiter]] from Atlanta, Georgia.

== Fandom involvement ==

BlueFolf is a [[transgender]] activist best known for promoting [[LGBTQ+]] inclusivity, specifically on the [[W:Social media|social media]] app, [[Twitter]]. As of February 21, 2024, she has 103 thousand followers. She has collaborated with Furry YouTuber Nos Hyena.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7HQnrKatks "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7HQnrKatks"] video on [[Nos Hyena]]'s YouTube account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursona ===

As her name suggests, BlueFolf’s [[fursona]] is a blue [[Folf]], a [[hybrid]] [[species]] of a [[fox]] and [[wolf]]. She had a [[plushie]] of her Fursona made by @[[BuildAFur]] in 2022.<ref>[https://twitter.com/BuildAFur/status/1558181498209058816 "https://twitter.com/BuildAFur/status/1558181498209058816"] tweet on BuildAFur's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 23, 2024.</ref>

=== Fursuit ===

BlueFolf live streamed her Fursuit unboxing on [[YouTube]] on July 24th, 2020, being created by Omega Suit Studios.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoEZBg-qReY "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoEZBg-qReY"] video on BlueFolf's YouTube account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref>

=== Convention attendance ===

* [[Anthro New England]] - 2024
* [[Anthrocon]] - 2023
* [[Furry Weekend Atlanta]] - 2023
* [[Furpocalypse]] - 2022, 2023

==Transphobic Attacks==

Due to promoting transgender inclusivity and being perceived as immature, she's been the target of anti-LGBTQ+ attacks. On April 24th, 2024, ValidLs, a transphobic Twitter account, defamed them with a fake Discord screenshot accusing them of being a child groomer.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20230424175938/https://twitter.com/ValidLs/status/1650518848724934656 "https://twitter.com/ValidLs/status/1650518848724934656"] tweet on ValidLs' Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> Five hours later, BlueFolf debunked these accusations as false, showing a video of her Discord Direct Messages showing no messages between the minor she allegedly groomed.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20230426033348/https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1650598972195479561 "https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1650598972195479561"] tweet on BlueFolf's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> Despite this, BlueFolf was doxxed, and on April 25 tweeted text messages from her dad who was sent the fake screenshot and believed it.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20231017013219/https://twitter.com/bluefolf/status/1650695558095425536 "https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1650695558095425536"] tweet on BlueFolf's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> On April 28th, BlueFolf tweeted, "I’m going to be suing ValidLs, not just for myself, but for all the people they’ve hurt."<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20230430163334/https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1652046987733114885 "https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1652046987733114885"] tweet on BlueFolf's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> On May 10th, BlueFolf tweeted a video announcing a lawsuit against ValidLs.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20231017013325/https://twitter.com/bluefolf/status/1656361219328991233 "https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1656361219328991233"] tweet on BlueFolf's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> BlueFolf then started a GoFundMe to raise funds to sue ValidLs for defamation,<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20230516070152/https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1656786062113472514 "https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1656786062113472514"] tweet on BlueFolf's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> but was met with accusations of stealing money. On May 11th, BlueFolf denied this, tweeting "I’m not using any of the money for anything else other than the lawsuit / If this lawsuit doesn’t work out, and things don’t go properly it will be refunded!!! / I wouldnt [sic] steal money."<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20230516070152/https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1656786062113472514 "https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1656786062113472514"] tweet on BlueFolf's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> Despite this, on May 16th the fundraiser was canceled with all donations being refunded, citing stress and the difficulty of pursuing a defamation lawsuit, tweeting "I’m sorry for letting y’all down. I only wanted justice to be served."<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20230518180849/https://twitter.com/bluefolf/status/1658328823602073602 "https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/status/1658328823602073602"] tweet on BlueFolf's Twitter's account. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref> On October 30th, The Daily Dot reported a website blackmailing BlueFolf to "cooperate", having stalked her for "several years" and threatening to post an explicit picture of her if she didn't comply. It's rumored that ValidLs was behind the site, although they deny creating it.<ref>[https://www.dailydot.com/news/youtuber-bluefolf-threatened-by-dox-website/ "https://www.dailydot.com/news/youtuber-bluefolf-threatened-by-dox-website/"] The Daily Dot. Retrieved February 21, 2024.</ref>ValidLs has since been suspended for violating Twitter's rules. Many have continued to falsely accuse BlueFolf of scamming people despite proof that she refunded the donations.

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* [https://twitter.com/BlueFolf/ BlueFolf] on [[Twitter]]
* [https://www.tiktok.com/@bluefolf/ BlueFolf] on [[TikTok]]
* [https://www.youtube.com/@BlueFolf/ BlueFolf] on [[YouTube]]

{{person-stub}}

[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Fursuiters]]
[[Category:YouTubers]]

File:Lumin City Profile Picture.png

2024-02-24T19:35:08Z

Lumin City: Lumin City's Profile Picture made by the Furry artist feve on FurAffinity. https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/

== Summary ==
Lumin City's Profile Picture made by the Furry artist feve on FurAffinity.
https://www.furaffinity.net/view/50819725/
== Licensing ==
{{fursona}}