Anime Mid-Atlantic 10 is a convention where fans can enjoy video games, watch anime, shop for accessories and make new friends. This year’s con – as the attendees call them – embraces another special occasion, AMA’s 10-year anniversary.

A decade ago, Edward Fortner founded this convention by funding it with his own money. He has joined the ranks of other anime founders, and today it has become a successful phenomenon. Even though the economy is still tough, 4,000 attendees are expected to attend this year from June 11 to 13.

Some con-goers are excited about this year’s convention.

No longer a first-time convention attendee, Kurt Schwindt plans to attend AMA 10. “I think back in 2007, AMA was my very first convention,” Schwindt recalled.

New friends and new experiences are his expectations for AMA. “Nothing is ever the same and everything is always a surprise.”

Schwindt also said that with the economy he has had his fair share of money troubles, but at least he’s happy to be seeing what’s in store.

Larissa Pyatt says that she will be attending but as an AMA staff member. “I’m excited about working staff with my buddies,” she said. “I’d say the economy has made it difficult to go to any con.”

GPX Gaming has always been part of their conventions, and this year is no different. They will be in charge of the gaming events in the video game room at AMA. They will provide the following systems: Xbox and Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, Nintendo 64 and up to six to eight Nintendo Wii gaming systems.

There will be panels such as Fortner’s “AMA Urban Legends,” which talk about urban legends about AMA and debunks quite a few of them that have no actual fact or truth to it.

The featured guest is Vic Mignogna, a good friend of Fortner. Mignogna is a voice actor playing Edward Elric in Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. “I’ve known Vic for a number of years,” he said.

Another event will commemorate Carl Macek, who passed away April 17. He was a director, producer and writer known for his work in making the anime series Robotech and anime films like Akira and Vampire Hunter D.

Musical guests will be The Clockwork Dolls and DJ Asu Rock, who will DJ for the AMA Charity Ball and the late night dances.

Every year, AMA staffers give back through donations. Convention-goers will donate $2 to the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

“We have had trouble with making charity events due to the economy,” said Fortner. He also said that they have tried to have con-goers donate while having dance events, but with this change they are giving them the option.  If they have the money, he encourages them to make a difference.

By: Tamika Taylor

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