Thinking of Going to Metrocon? A Warning:

I'm getting tired of people blindly defending the over the top security measures like the TSA. Fact is, if your intents are evil then these security measures will do nothing to stop anyone as has been demonstrated time and again, with smuggled weapons and the like. Instead, everyone in the country is being treated like a criminal with their basic rights invaded, and even an anime convention which is supposed to be about having a good time with like-minded people has become infected with this new way of life.

What does this have to do with Metrocon? Their security. They seemed to have got a bulk discount by hiring power hungry ex-cons and TSA washouts, placing them throughout the convention. Every door had security posted out front - at the best, they would grab your badge and check it front and back and let you pass. At the main events however was when it really got out of hand. I had a backpack on me that kept my iPad, camera and water bottle (all separated of course). Every time you went into the main event stage/theater, you would be subject to a bag search, which was acceptable with me. What wasn't fine was some kid opening up my water and literally sticking his nose in it - and this happened every time I went in. Yes, I understand that you don't want alcohol brought into the room; I don't care either - if the rules are no alcohol and you catch me with alcohol, then kick me out and do whatever else you're legally allowed to do. I've been to events far bigger than Metrocon, respectfully with much bigger names in attendance and have never dealt with anything like this before.

My biggest complaint though is that I was stopped at the main events doorway almost every single time (even after having been searched) by some brute who I'll call Durwood. I would be walking and suddenly feel myself being yanked back by a hand grabbing the top of my backpack. Durwood searched me once again before letting me finally pass without so much as an explanation.

The rave was when I finally had enough. The security lines were, surprisingly, divided up into male/female lines, and everyone was required to lift their shirt above the belts, some even being pat down. My items were once again searched (I did not trust leaving them for $10 with someone not even watching them) and was grabbed by Durwood once again. After standing around all day, the last thing I wanted to do was be yanked around. I told him to piss off and I left the line. A police officer who was standing nearby came up to me and asked why I left, giving me the impression that he was suspicious I may have had something on me. I gladly offered to let him search; instead he took me back to the front of the security checkpoint and explained to Durwood that it was all just a misunderstanding. Durwood quickly changed his whole attitude in front of the officer and even said he was sorry.

Fact is however that this kind of thing went on all weekend. Some even had their badge cut by talking back to security over things like what I experienced. It's of course entirely possible with all the complaints that things have changed this year, but I strongly encourage you to keep this in mind if you plan on attending Metrocon so you have an idea of what to expect and know what your money may be supporting.