American Conventions

On this episode of 'American Conventions,' Taji Ameen meets the nearly 500 people—and puppets—who gather at the world's largest ventriloquist convention every year. From old hands who have been puppeteering since the 80s to newcomers in their teens, there's something for everyone at Vent Haven. Taji even swallows his pride and hits up the open mic with a routine of his own.

For the past 16 years, North Ridgeville, Ohio, has hosted pet owners from across the country to celebrate what founder Deborah Cipriani claims is the largest skunk convention in the world. This year, VICE's Taji Ameen went to the annual Skunk Fest to check out its competitions and meet dozens of skunk enthusiasts and the descented animals they keep as pets. On this episode of 'American Conventions,' Taji meets the owner of a skunk sanctuary, learns what it takes to be crowned the festival's queen or king skunk, and tries to find out why these feared mammals are becoming beloved pets in people's homes.

Each year, the Association of Lincoln Presenters come together for a summit, where dozens deck themselves out like the 16th president, and give rousing speeches alongside women dressed like Abe's wife, Mary. It’s a chance for the presenters to hang out with one another and discuss the latest historical finds about the president—all with the goal of keeping his legacy alive. We went to this year’s gathering in Freeport, Illinois, to hear why they rep the 16th president, and ask the locals how they feel about dozens of dudes in top hats and women in their town.