Greetings, True Believers! Here’s this week’s Conventions Update courtesy of the fine people at… well, here! SoulGeek! Aren’t we wonderful?

Mythcon 40

July 17th-20th

UCLA – DeNeve Plaza, Los Angeles, California
Guests of Honour: James A. Owen; Diana Pavlac Glyer, Ph.D.

San Diego Comic-Con

Preview Night July 22nd, Con July 23rd-26th

111 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, California
Special Guests: Bryan Lee O’Malley, Jerry Vanderstelt, Jim Lee, and others

Confluence

July 24th-26th

The 21st Annual Literary Sci-Fi Convention in Pittsburgh
Doubletree Hotel, Moon Township, Pennsylvania
Guests of Honour: John Scalzi, More Difficulties

Diversicon 17

July 31st – August 2nd

Saint Paul, MN
Guests of Honour: Michael Levy, Sandra Lindow

PulpFest 2009

July 31st – August 2nd

The Summer’s Leading Pulp Convention with thousands of your favorite Pulp Magazines
Ramada Plaza Hotel & Conference Center, Columbus, Ohio

Writercon 2009: Writing Between the Lines

July 31st – August 2nd

Writercon is a gathering of writers, poets, editors, and fans of writers, poets, and editors. A much-anticipated event, this assembly of writers and readers of fanfiction will gather to celebrate the power of telling stories. Through panel discussions, guest speakers, and hands-on workshops, we will explore the art of writing between the lines.
Radisson Plaza Hotel, Minneapolis, MN

SoulGeek is pleased to announce that we will be partnering with ENI in attendance of this year’s San Diego Comic-Con! You’ll be able to find us at booth #2517, next door to Bongo Comics and across the way from Alex Ross Art and Arcana. As well as being able to meet SoulGeek founder and voice actor Dino Andrade (whose credits include playing Skull in PvP: The Series and a dwarf in World of Warcraft, amongst other awesome projects), you’ll also be able to meet Richard Hatch, star of both the original 70s Battlestar Galactica and the reimagined series of recent years!

As if those two froods weren’t hoopy enough, we’ll also have Ben Paddon, writer and SoulGeek Webcomics Editor-in-Chief, who will be promoting the flagship SoulGeek Webcomic, Jump Leads.

As well as selling the first Jump Leads trade paperback, you’ll also be able to sign up for SoulGeek and get a month free! There is no reason not to stop by our booth, unless you have a potentially fatal allergy to awesome things. Find us using the map below!

Greetings fellow geeks!  Below is a guest schedule and list of giveaways that you will see at the SoulGeek booth at the San Diego Comic-Con.  For those of you who will be attending stop by booth #2517.  For those of you who will NOT be attending – why the hell aren’t you?!?

WEDNESDAY 7/22 (PREVIEW NIGHT):

Guests:

• Richard Hatch signing 5:30 – 9pm
• Ben Paddon signing 5:30 – 9pm

Giveaways:

• Free 1 month SoulGeek.Com Premium Memberships (all night)

THURSDAY 7/23

Guests:

• Richard Hatch signing 1 – 7pm
• Ben Paddon signing 9am – 7pm

Giveaways:

• Battlestar Galactica Figurine Giveaway 3pm
• Free 1 month SoulGeek.Com Premium Memberships (all day)

FRIDAY 7/24:

Guests:

• Richard Hatch signing 1 – 7pm
• Stan Bush signing 1 – 3pm
• Ben Paddon signing 9am – 7pm

Giveaways:

• Star Trek Games Scene It Games Giveaways 11am
• Free 1 month SoulGeek.Com Premium Memberships (all day)

SATURDAY 7/25:

Guests:

• Richard Hatch signing 1 – 7pm
• Stan Bush signing 1 – 3pm
• Ben Paddon signing 9am – 7pm

Giveaways:

• Battlestar Galactica Figurine Giveaway 3pm
• Free 1 month SoulGeek.Com Premium Memberships (all day)

SUNDAY 7/26:

Guests:

• Richard Hatch signing 1 – 5pm
• Ben Paddon signing 9am – 5pm

Giveaways:

• Sci-Fi, Horror, Fantasy Book Giveaway 11am
• Free 1 month SoulGeek.Com Premium Memberships (all day)

October 23-25

Hyatt Regency Tech Center-Denver, 7800 E. Tufts Ave., Denver, CO 80237.
Convention website: http://www.milehicon.org/

Guests of Honor: Author Barbara Hambly; author Nancy Kress; artist John Picacio; musician Marc Gunn.  Author Brandon Sanderson is toastmaster.

Mischief Managed Entertainment will once again present its popular “Tales From Avistrum” in tandem with MileHiCon.  The top floor of the Hyatt Regency will be transformed into the wizarding school called ‘Avistrum Academy’ where students help solve a mystery and fight the villains.  The weekend is complete with The Sorting Ceremony, Start of Term Feast, the Quidditch Cup Tournament and a full schedule of classes, including Potions, Charms, Defense Against the Dark Arts and Transfiguration.

Not much this week, just the return of FAMOUS MONSTER OF FILMLAND MAGAZINE AND A HUGE CON TO CELEBRATE THE RE-LAUNCH!!!...oh, sorry for shouting BUT IT’S KIND OF A BIG DEAL AROUND HERE!!…sorry again.

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FEATURED CONVENTIONS

CONvergence 2010: Bring on the Bad Guys
July 1-4, 2010
Bloomington, MN
www.convergence-con.org

CONvergence is a science fiction and fantasy convention held annually at the Sheraton South Hotel in Bloomington, Minnesota. The convention features an Art Show, multiple discussion panels, guests of honor, a masquerade ball, free food and drink for attendees, and dozens of room parties. The convention is held the first full weekend in July.

Guests include L.A.Banks (author – Vampire Huntress Legend, Crimson Moon, Dark Avengers and Soul Food series), Jeremy Bulloch (actor – Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi), Paul Cornell – (writer – Doctor Who (television, novels, audio), Marvel Comics (Captain Britain and MI-13)), Bridget Landry (Jet Propulsion Laboratory engineer (Hubble, Mars Pathfinder and Cassini missions)), Chuck McCann (veteran comedian, actor, and cartoon voiceover artist, voice of Sonny the Cuckoo Bird), Wally Wingert (voice actor – Invader Zim, Bleach, The Garfield Show).

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Famous Monsters Convention
July 9-11, 2010
Indianapolis, IN
www.famousmonstersconvention.com

Famous Monsters of Filmland, the original sci-fi/horror/fantasy-genre magazine that captured over three decades of imagination, announces its foray into the horror convention circuit. The weekend-long convention will be packed with special screenings, monstrous parties, exciting music acts, panels, a costume contest and lots more.

“We are so happy to invite you to the first in a series of horrific gatherings hosted by your friends at FM,” said Philip Kim, Senior Manger. The event will be held at the Wyndham Indianapolis West, located at 2544 Executive Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Guests include Thomas Jane (The Mist, Punisher), Billy Drago (The Untouchables, Hills Have Eyes (2006), Downstream), Basil Gogos (FM cover artist), William Stout (production designer – The Mist, Pan’s Labyrinth, Return of the Living Dead), William Forsythe (Devil’s Rejects, Halloween (2007), Raising Arazona, Dick Tracy), Mick Garris (The Stand, Sleepwalkers, Bag of Bones), Tony Todd (Candyman, Final Destination, Star Trek: NG & DS9, Platoon), Ernie Hudson (Ghostbusters 1 & 2, The Crow, Oz), Kristina Klebe (Halloween (2007), Zone of the Dead), Danielle Harris (Halloween 4, 5 & Halloween (2007), Hatchet II), Miko Hughes (Pet Cemetery, Wes Craven’s New Nightmare, Full House), Charles Band (writer/director/producer – Puppet Master, Trancers Subspecies series), Beverly Randolph (Return of the Living Dead, Quincy M.E.), Thom Mathews (Return of the Living Dead 1 & 2, Friday the 13th 6 & 7, The Peacemaker), Allan Trautman (Return of the Living Dead, Intolerable Cruelty), Don Calfa (Return of the Living Dead, 1941, Bugsy, Twin Peaks), Jewel Shepard (Return of the Living Dead, Party Camp, Zapped), Brian Peck (Return of the Living Dead 1-3, X-Men 1 & 2, Man on the Moon), John Philbin (Return of the Living Dead, Children of the Corn, Point Break), Judith O’Dea (Night of the Living Dead, Claustrophobia, Evil Deeds), Kyra Schon (Night of the Living Dead), Bill Hinzman (Night of the Living Dead, Legion of the Night, Santa Claws), George Kosana (Night of the Living Dead, There’s Always Vanilla, The Booby Hatch), Russell Streiner (Night of the Living Dead, There’s Always Vanilla), John Russo (Night of the Living Dead, Midnight, Santa Claws), Charles Craig (Night of the Living Dead, Chasing Dreams, Born to Race), Gary Streiner (sound design – Night of the Living Dead, There’s Always Vanilla), Joe Unitas (lighting supervisor – Night of the Living Dead), Herbert Summer (Night of the Living Dead), Rick Catizone (animator/ title designer Night of the Living Dead, Creepshow 1 & 2, Evil Dead 2), Tom Savini (Dawn/Day of the Dead, director – Night of the Living Dead (1990), actor – From Dusk Till Dawn, Land of the Dead), Leonard A. Lies (Dawn of the Dead), Jim Krut (Dawn of the Dead, The Guatemalan, Zombthology), Sharon Ceccatti (Dawn of the Dead, Knightriders, Hellraiser 3), Mike Christopher (Dawn of the Dead, Indiscretions, The Coffin), Joe Pilato (Dawn/Day of the Dead, Pulp Fiction, Night of the Living Dead: Origins), Terry Alexander (Day of the Dead, Law & Order, Conspiracy Theory), Anthony Dileo (Day of the Dead, Bob Roberts, Lorenzo’s Oil), Gary Klar (Day of the Dead, Legal Eagles, Big, Hackers), Michael Gornick (cinematographer – Day of the Dead, Knightriders, Creepshow), John Migliore (Survival of the Dead), Jamison Newlander (The Lost Boys 1, 2 & 3), Gerard McMann (singer/songwriter – The Lost Boys 1, 2 & 3, Vampirella, Chasing Amy), Chance Michael Corbitt (The Lost Boys, Pumpkinhead, The Rocketeer), Brooke McCarter (The Lost Boys, Wired, Me, Myself and I), Billy Wirth (The Lost Boys, Boys on the Side, Duress), Ed Gale (Howard the Duck, Child’s Play, Spaceballs), Alex Vincent (Child’s Play 1 & 2, Bandini, Dead Country), Ken Sagoes (Nightmare on Elm Street 3, Project X, Intolerable Cruelty), Mark Patton (Nightmare on Elm Street 2, Come Back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean), Kim Myers (Nightmare on Elm Street 2, Hellraiser: Bloodline, The Closer), Warrington Gillette (Friday the 13th 2), Vinny Guastaferro (Friday the 13th 6, Shocker, Redbelt), Damian Maffei (The Oferring, Ghost Lake, Closed for the Season), Joe Unger (Nightmare on Elm Street, Mask, Total Recall), Terrance Zdunich (actor/writer/composer – Repo!: The Genetic Opera), Cerina Vincent (Cabin Fever, Not Another Teen Movie, Return to House on Haunted Hill), Jonathon Trent (Transformers 2, Downstream, Woke), Amelia Kinkade (Night of the Demons 1-3, Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo), Denise Nickerson (Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Dark Shadows, The Electric Company), Paris Themmen (Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory), Brian Joseph Harnois (Ghost Hunters, Ghost Hunters International), Shannon Sylvia (Ghost Hunters International, Paranormal State), Michael Nicolosi (Spawn (HBO), Things to Do in Denver When You’re Dead), Kevin Burns (producer Alien Nation movies, Poseidon, Biography, founder Prometheus Entertainment), Bridget Marquardt (Girls Next Door, The Telling), Nicholas Carpenter (Girls Next Door, The Telling), Bela Lugosi Jr. (son of Dracula), Thomas Churchill (writer/producer/director – Church Hill Productions), George Demick (Dead Start, Demon Sight, Asylum of Terror), Joe Moe (Ackermansion caretaker), Mark Redfield (Chainsaw Sally, Despiser, Armed Robbery Orgasm), Jessie Lilley (editor – FM, publisher/co-creator Scarlet Street, editor-in-chief Mondo Cult), Tim Bradstreet (comic illustrator – Hellblazer, The Punisher), J. David Spurlock (publisher – Vanguard Press), Kerry Gammil (comic artist – Powerman and Iron Fist, Marvel Team-up, Superman), Len Barnhart (author – Reign of the Dead, Apocalypse End), Jim O’Rear (Day of the Dead, Star Trek 4, Lethal Weapon 3), Cortlandt Hull (founder/curator Witch’s Dungeon Classic Movie Museum), Bill Diamond (puppeteer – Dark Crystal, creator – Monster TV), John Everson (author – Covenant, Sacrifice, The 13th, Siren), Billy Gram (documentarian – ONE for the Fire), Rupert Boneham (Survivor), Sal Lizard (I Am Legend, The Box)

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Westercon 63: Confirmation
July 1-4, 2010
Pasadena CA
www.westercon63.org

“Westercon is the West Coast Science Fantasy Conference. It has been held annually since 1948 in the Western half of North America. From Hawaii in the West to El Paso in the East, to Vancouver in the North and San Diego in the South, Westercon has travelled far in the region. It is a general interest science fiction/fantasy convention covering literature, art, science, costuming, gaming, music, television, movies, comics, anime, politics, and any other topic of interest to fans.”

Pro Guest of Honor: Rudy Rucker
Fan Guest of Honor: John D. Berry
Artist Guest of Honor: Marc Schirmeister
Conchord Music Guest of Honor: Seanan McGuire
Conchord Toastmaster: Paul Kwinn
Interfilk Guests of Honor: Stone Dragons

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InConJunction 30
July 2-4, 2010
Indianapolis, IN
www.inconjunction.org

“InConJunction 30 — Where Quarks and Orcs Collide! Come celebrate with us on our 30th anniversary. Old friends in a new location with great fun.”

Author Guest of Honor: Keith R.A. DeCandido (novelizations for Star Trek, Doctor Who, Buffy, Farscape, Supernatural and much more)
Artist Guest of Honor: Ed Beard, Jr. (Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, Lord of the Rings)
Gaming Guests of Honor: Andrew & Kristin Looney (founders of Looney Labs Games (Fluxx, Treehouse, Icehouse)
Music Guest of Honor: Wild Mercy (filk band)

Featured guests include Ben Avery (comic book writer (The Oz/Wonderland Chronicles, ArmorQuest, TimeFlyz), co-founder of Community Comics), Destini Hope Beard (vocalist – The Dark Masquerade), Samuel Travis Clemmons (author, lecturer, philosopher), TammyJo Eckhart (author – Mistress Loves Me, This I Know, Servants of Destiny), Joe Greene (costumer, robotics and LEGO® enthusiast), Marc Gunn (musician), Lou Harry (The Superman Guide to Life: Living the Superhero Lifestyle), MagicHouse Productions, Steven Marsh (editor of Pyramid magazine), Dr. Karen Nagel (associate professor at Midwestern University), Robert Pyatt, Ph.D. (mad scientist and pseudo super villain), Tom Smith (“The World’s Fastest Filker”), Michael Z. Williamson (author – Freehold, The Weapon) and The Incredible Two-Headed Toastmaster (master of ceremonies and grotesque accident of science).

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Readercon 21
July 8-11, 2010
Burlington, MA
readercon.org

“Readercon is an annual conference or convention devoted to ‘imaginative literature’ — literary science fiction, fantasy, horror, and the unclassifiable works often called ‘slipstream.’

A typical Readercon features over 150 writers, editors, publishers, and critics, attracting prominent figures from across the U.S., and from Canada, the U.K., and occasionally even Australia and Japan. They are joined by some 500 of their most passionate and articulate readers for a long weekend of intense conversation.”

Guests of Honor: Nalo Hopkinson & Charles Stross

Memorial Guest of Honor: Olaf Stapledon

Program participants include John Joseph Adams, Mike Allen, Athena Andreadis, Nick Antosca, Inanna Arthen, Ellen Asher, Nathan Ballingrud, Amelia Beamer, Elizabeth Bear, John Benson, Judith Berman, Steve Berman, Beth Bernobich, Jedediah Berry, Leah Bobet, K. Tempest Bradford, Ellen Brody, Lauren Burka, James L. Cambias, Jeffrey A. Carver, Jeanne Cavelos, Christopher M. Cevasco, Blake Charlton, Suzy McKee Charnas, Matthew Cheney, Michael Cisco, Neil Clarke, John Clute, Helen Collins, F. Brett Cox, John G. Cramer, Kathryn Cramer, John Crowley, Shira Daemon, Don D’Ammassa, Ellen Datlow, Samuel R. Delany, Alan DeNiro, Daniel P. Dern, Paul Di Filippo, Rachel Elizabeth Dillon, Michael Dirda, Amanda Downum, Debra Doyle, Ron Drummond, David Anthony Durham, Thomas A. Easton, Scott Edelman, Alan Elms, Gemma Files, Jeffrey Ford, Francesca Forrest, Rose Fox, Jim Freund, Craig Shaw Gardner, Lila Garrott, Felix Gilman, Greer Gilman, Adam Golaski, Liz Gorinsky, Theodora Goss, Gavin J. Grant, Glenn Grant, Geary Gravel, Daryl Gregory, Andrea Hairston, Marty Halpern, Elizabeth Hand, Jack Haringa, David G. Hartwell, Jeff Hecht, Cecelia Holland, Walter H. Hunt, Elaine Isaak, Alexander Jablokov, Victoria Janssen, N.K. Jemisin, Alaya Dawn Johnson, Sandra Kasturi, John Kessel, Caitlín R. Kiernan, Robert Killheffer, Rosemary Kirstein, Erin Kissane, Nicole Kornher-Stace, Mary Robinette Kowal, Barbara Krasnoff, Matthew Kressel, K.A. Laity, John Langan, Sarah Langan, Fred Lerner, Paul Levinson, Shariann Lewitt, Ernest Lilley, Barry B. Longyear, James D. Macdonald, Barry N. Malzberg, Louise Marley, Marilyn Mattie, Jack McDevitt, Anil Menon, Yves Meynard, Sarah Micklem, Eugene Mirabelli, Pan Morigan, James Morrow, Kathryn Morrow, Jaime Moyer, Chris Nakashima-Brown, Jamil Nasir, Resa Nelson, Deborah Noyes, Patrick O’Leary, Paul Park, Jennifer Pelland, Cassandra Phillips-Sears, Charles Platt, Steven Popkes, Cat Rambo, Robert V. S. Redick, Kit Reed, Paul T. Riddell, Faye Ringel, Margaret Ronald, Benjamin Rosenbaum, Robert J. Sawyer, Kenneth Schneyer, Darrell Schweitzer, David G. Shaw, Robert Shearman, John Shirley, Alison Sinclair, Brian Francis Slattery, Graham Sleight, Joan Slonczewski, Sarah Smith, Allen Steele, Peter Straub, Noël Sturgeon, Susanna J. Sturgis, Gayle Surrette, Michael Swanwick, Sonya Taaffe, Cecilia Tan, Paul Tremblay, Liza Groen Trombi, Alice K. Turner, Catherynne M. Valente, Eric M. Van, Gordon Van Gelder, Kestrell Verlager, Howard Waldrop, Konrad Walewski, Sean Wallace, Diane Weinstein, Jacob Weisman, Robert Freeman Wexler, Rick Wilber, Gregory A. Wilson, Paul Witcover and Gary K. Wolfe.

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G-FEST
July 9-11, 2010
Rosemont, IL
www.g-fan.com

G-FEST is the largest regular gathering of Godzilla and Japanese monster fans in the world. Held each summer, G-FEST typically attracts about 1000 attendees. In 2005, more than 1300 attended.

G-FEST is a family-oriented convention which caters to a wide variety of interests within the kaiju genre. G-FEST features presentations and Q & A sessions by actors and crew from the Japanese Godzilla films, fan presentations on topics of interest, contests and gaming, new and classic kaiju movies, the western world’s largest kaiju-oriented dealers room, and lots of fun and camaraderie.

Guest of Honor: Akira Takarada (actor – Gojira, Godzilla vs. the Thing, Monster Zero, Godzilla Versus the Sea Monster, King Kong Escapes, Godzilla and Mothra: The Battle for Earth, Godzilla: Final Wars)
Special Guest: Robert Scott Field (actor – Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah)
Special Presenter: Dr. William M. Tsutsui (author/editor Godzilla on My Mind: Fifty Years of the King of Monsters)
Special Presenter: David Kalat (author – A Critical History and Filmography of Toho’s Godzilla Series, J-Horror)
Special Guest Panelist: Bob Eggleton (cover artist – Random House’s Godzilla series, Dark Horse’s Godzilla King of the Monsters)
Special Guest: J.D. Lees (editor – G-FAN)

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Ancient City Con IV
July 10-11
Jacksonville, FL.
www.ancientcitycon.com

A Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Anime, Gaming & Fandom Convention

Media Guest of Honor: Rekha Sharma
Literary Guest of Honor: Richard Lee Byers
Cosplay Guest of Honor: Pika Belle Chu
Literary Guest: Kimberly Raiser

Media Guests include Kevin A. Ranson, Linda S. Cowden, Meredith Placko, Clutch, The Doctrine Film Experience
Literary Guests include Elissa Malcohn, T. S. Robinson, Gary S. Roen, K. L. Nappier, Steve Bunnel
Panel Guests include Jessica Wistoft
Musical Guests include Sci-Fried, Fields of Glass

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Journey To Where
July 16-18, 2010
Austin, TX.
www.journeytowherecon.com

You are cordially invited to join other fans of the classic television series Space: 1999 and celebrate the 35th anniversary of the show’s debut in 1975. JOURNEY TO WHERE, a relax-a-con, is to be held in Austin, Texas over the dates of July 16-18, 2010.

Featuring special guest Carolyn Seymour (Space: 1999: The Seance Spectre, The Ruling Class, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Voyager, Quantum Leap, Babylon 5), and live interactive conversations with Catherine Schell, Nick Tate and author Robert E. Wood.

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(See article above)

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Steel City Con
Aug 6-8, 2010
Monroeville, PA
www.steelcitycon.com

“The first 1,000 Attendees who buy a 3-Day Pass will receive a GOODIE BAG filled with toys and comics valued at more than the price of the Pass. That’s almost like getting in for FREE!”

Celebrity Guests (so far) include Jake Lloyd (Phantom Menace), Micky Dolenz (The Monkees, The Tick), David Faustino (Married with Children), Daphne Duplaix (Angel, CSI, CSI: NY, Felicity) Lita (WWE diva & champion), Paris Themmen (Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory), Martin Klebba (Pirates of the Caribbean 1, 2 & 3, Feast 2 & 3, Scrubs) and more!

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SETIcon
Aug 13-15, 2010
Santa Clara, CA
www.seticon.com

“SETIcon is a science conference with a dash of sci-fi but not a traditional convention. It is the first science conference that is geared towards families and the general public. While there is no dealer or vendor room, the SETI Institute will be selling merchandise and we will have an auction with unique items. The panels and talks will be light hearted yet informative and educational.  It is for anyone that is fascinated by the idea of ‘are we alone’ and who loves Sci-Fi, who wants to talk to scientists, authors etc in an informal and fun setting.”

Guests include Rusty Schweickart (Apollo 9 astronaut), John Billingsley (Star Trek Enterprise, True Blood, 2012), Tim Russ (Star Trek Voyager, amateur astronomer), Andre Bormanis (writer, producer – Enterprise, Eleventh Hour, Legend of the Seeker), Mary Roach (author – Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers, Spook: Science Tackles the Afterlife, Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex), Paul Duffield (comic artist – Freakangels, Manga Shakespeare’s The Tempest,  Anna Mercury, Absolution, Crossed), Robert J. Sawyer (writer – FlashForward), Robyn Asimov (daughter of Isaac Asimov), Alex Filippenko (professor of astronomy at UC Berkeley), Andrew Fraknoi (author or co-author of Voyages through the Universe, Disney’s Wonderful World of Space), Ben Shelef (co-founder of the Spaceward Foundation, member of the Space Elevator community), David Morrison (senior scientist at the NASA Astrobiology Institute), Debra Fischer (professor of astronomy at Yale University, first woman in history to discover new planets), Dr. Dana Backman (professor of physics and astronomy at Franklin and Marshall College, co-author of astronomy textbooks, Horizons, Foundations & Astro), Dr. Douglas Vakoch (director of interstellar message composition at the SETI Institute), Frank Drake (director of the Carl Sagan Center for the Study of Life in the Universe at the SETI Institute and chairman emeritus of the Institute’s Board of Trustees).

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Would you like to be a featured convention?  Send an email to Britt at: conventions@soulgeek.com and ask us how?

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OTHER CONVENTIONS

Gatecon 10
July 8-11, 2010
Vancouver, BC, Canada
www.gatecon.com

“Come celebrate a decade of Gatecon with us at our 10th birthday party at the Sheraton Wall Centre, Vancouver, Canada. We look forward to welcoming back Gatecon family members old and new along with newbies wanting to experience their first fantastic Gatecon. You’ve heard how much fun they are so now come see for yourself!”

Guests include Paul McGillion, Cliff Simon, JR Bourne, Colin Cunningham, Tony Amendola, Erick Avari, Corin Nemec, Bruce Woloshyn, Jerry Rector, Simon Ager, Steve Bacic, Andee Frizzell, John de Lancie, Musetta Vander, Dan Payne, Alex Zahara, Dylan Neal, Vanessa Angel, Barry Campbell, Dan Shea, David Nykl, Sabine Bauer and Martin Wood.

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Polaris
July 16-18, 2010
Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
www.tcon.ca/polaris/modules/tconguests

Special Guest – Robert J. Sawyer (author – FlashForward).
Author Guest of Honour – Kelley Armstrong (The Reckoning).
Actor Guests include Alaina Huffman (Stargate Universe), Lindsay Wagner (Bionic Woman), Kai Owen (Torchwood), Mark Sheppard (Battlestar Galactica).
Author Guests include John Robert Colombo (The Big Book of Canadian Hauntings), Julie E. Czerneda (Rift In The Sky), Dr. Robert Smith? (Time Unincorporated, The Doctor Who Fanzine Archives), Eric Choi (Footprints), Rob St.Martin (Princess Smith and the Clockwork), Alyxandra Harvey (Hearts at Stake, The Drake Chronicles), Derwin Mak (The Moon Under Her Feet), Karen Dales (The Chosen Chronicles), Michelle Rowen (The Demon in Me), Kenneth Tam (The Reprisal), Nikki Stafford (Finding Lost), Peter Watts (Blindsight), Violette Malan (The Soldier King), Stephanie Bedwell-Grime (Changeling), Gemma Files (A Book of Tongues), Douglas Smith (Chimerascope), Matthew LeDrew (Ghosts of the Past).

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Confluence 2010
July 23-25, 2010
Pittsburgh, PA
www.parsec-sff.org/confluence

“Confluence is a small, friendly conference focused on the literature and art of Science Fiction and Fantasy. Confluence is about programming that lets fans of science fiction and fantasy hear about the views and visions of some of the leading authors, editors, and critics in the genre.”

Guest of Honor: Wen Spencer
Featured Filk: Peter S. Beagle

With additional guests and program participants: Paul Anderson, Dejah and Thorus Biernesser, Gary A. Braunbeck, Ken Chiacchia, Lawrence C. Connolly, JoEllyn Davidoff, Eric Leif Davin, Susan Dexter, Tim Esaias, Joe Giacoio, Pete Grubbs, David Hartwell, Judith Hayman, Alan Irvine, Sean Johnson, Alan A. Katerinsky, Herb Kauderer, William H. Keith, Jr, Larry Kirby, Fruma Klass, Brian Koscienski, Geoffrey Landis, Gail Z. Martin, Bill Mayhew, Margaret Middleton, Phillip Mills, James Morrow, Kathy Morrow, Charles Oberndorf, Tamora Pierce, Chris Pisano, Thomas Seay, Bud Sparhawk, Karina Sumner-Smith, Lucy A. Snyder, S. Andrew Swann, John Alfred Taylor, Diane Turnshek, Mary Turzillo, Carla Ulbrich, Teri Wachowiak and Michelle Sagara West.

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SpoCon
July 30-Aug 1, 2010
Spokane, WA
www.spocon.org

“SpoCon is an all volunteer organization that plans and hosts an annual fan themed convention, along with supporting and promoting events during the year. We are dedicated to literacy and education through the promotion of visual and performing arts, literature, science, gaming, and imagination. This is accomplished via inspiring creativity, providing mentors, forming relationships, awakening career ideas, and charitable donations.”

Guest of Honor: Michael Whelan
Guest Author: Tanya Huff
Filk Guest: Seanan McGuire (aka Mira Grant)
Media Guest: Dead Gentlemen
Ghost of Honor: Sir Arthur C. Clarke

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ReConStruction
Aug 5-8, 2010
Raleigh, NC
www.reconstructionsf.org

Guest of Honor – Eric Flint
Artist Guest of Honor – Brad Foster
Fan Guest of Honor – Juanita Coulson
Toastmaster – Toni Weisskopf

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Star Wars Celebration V
Aug 12-15, 2010
Orlando, FL
www.starwarscelebration.com

“Star Wars Celebration is the official Lucasfilm event celebrating all things Star Wars, produced by fans for fans. Celebrations are the largest Star Wars parties, featuring cast and crew celebrities, fans, costumes, music, live entertainment, autographs, collectibles, and panels — but mainly friends who gather to have fun and celebrate their love for the saga. From fans who first experienced A New Hope in theaters to kids just discovering Star Wars through Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Celebration touches on anything and everything connected with that galaxy far, far away. The first such event took place in 1999, and we’re proud to host the fifth Celebration in 2010!”

Special Guest: George Lucas

Autograph Guests include Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia), Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett, Lt. Sheckil, Captain Colton), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Amy Allen (Aayla Secura), Dickey Beer (stunt performer and coordinator – Jedi), Paul Blake (Greedo), Caroline Blakiston (Mon Mothma), Richard Bonehill (Snowtrooper, Stormtrooper, Ree Yees, Rebel Soldier), John Coppinger (Senator Yarua, Jabba the Hutt’s eyes, Graxol Kelvyyn), Dermot Crowley (General Crix Madine), Nick Gillard (swordmaster and stunt coordinator), Julian Glover (General Veers), Frank Hensen (Stormtrooper, Rebel Guard, Skiff Guard), Jake Lloyd (young Anakin Skywalker), Ian Liston (Wes Janson), Daniel Logan (young Boba Fett), Jack McKenzie (Cal Alder), Christopher Muncke (Captain Khurgee), Ray Park (Darth Maul), Chris Parsons (4-LOM, K-3PO), Toby Philpott (Jabba puppeteer), Mike Quinn (Nien Nunb), Tim Rose (Admiral Ackbar), George Roubicek (Commander Praji), Orli Shoshan (Shaak Ti), Matt Wood (supervising sound editor – prequels).

Celebration Hosts include Jay Laga’aia (Captain Typho), David Collins (audio lead and voice director at LucasArts), Pablo Hidalgo (managing editor for StarWars.com)

Yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year again!! “But Christmas isn’t for another six months” I hear you exclaim – What’re you, dense? It’s ComicCon! The time when all good FanBoys and FanGirls are getting-thee-hence to San Diego with all haste for four days of fandom and debauchery.

And our own Head Honcho, Grand Poobah, 800 Pound Gorilla, if you will (he’s actually quite trim), Dino Andrade will be in the thick of it all, signing autographs (SoulGeek’s just his day job) and generally making nice with the great unwashed masses (really folks, it gets packed and hot on the convention floor and too many of you haven’t discovered deodorant yet).

When he’s not running SG or performing husbandly duties (get your mind out of the gutter – I mean taking care of the kid) Dino’s a voice actor with an impressive list of stuff: He’s the voice of Skull the Troll for PVP The Series; The Scarecrow in Batman: Arkham Asylum; The Reaper in Brutal Legend; the Patrolbots in Nerf N-Strike Elite; soldiers in Call of Duty: Roads To Victory; a whole bunch’a characters in World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King…why he’s even the current “Pop” for Rice Crispies!

So get over to Booth #5619 and get yourself an autograph or just tell him how great you think SoulGeek is (he likes that) or tell him how great you think he is (he really likes that).

And for you webcomic fans, joining Dino in the SoulGeek booth will be J.E. DRAFT signing his new book, THE CHALLENGES OF ZONA VOLUME ONE.

Comic-Con 2010
July 22-25, 2010
San Diego, CA
www.comic-con.org/cci/

It’s Comic-Con. ‘Nuff said.

Special Guests include (expect this list to change) Neal Adams (artist, publisher, Batman, X-Men, Ms Mystic), Jason Spyda Adams (sculptor, DC Direct, Toy Biz), Joel Adams (artist/designer, Ms Mystic, King of the Hill), Josh Adams (artist/designer, House of Mystery), Sergio Aragonès (cartoonist, Groo, MAD Magazine), Peter Bagge (writer/artist, Buddy Bradley stories, Hate, Other Lives), Gabrielle Bell (writer/artist, Lucky, Cecil and Jordan in New York), Brian Michael Bendis (writer, Ultimate Spider-Man, Dark Avengers, Powers), Ray Bradbury (author, screenwriter, Fahrenheit 451, The Martian Chronicles), Émile Bravo (writer/artist, My Mommy Is in America and She Met Buffalo Bill), Berkeley Breathed (syndicated cartoonist, Bloom County, Opus), Kurt Busiek (writer, Marvels, Astro City), Chris Claremont (writer, Uncanny X-Men, X-Men Forever), Howard Cruse (writer/artist, Stuck Rubber Baby, Wendel), Vanessa Davis (writer/cartoonist, Spaniel Rage, Make Me a Woman), Felicia Day (Dr. Horrible, The Guild, Buffy, Dollhouse), Dave Dorman (illustrator, Star Wars, Rail), Mark Evanier (writer, comics historian, Groo the Wanderer, Kirby: King of Comics), Matt Fraction (writer, Invincible Iron Man, Uncanny X-Men), Hunter Freberg (humorist, entertainer, media personality), Stan Freberg (author, humorist, satirist, voice-over actor), Nicholas Gurewitch (cartoonist, The Perry Bible Fellowship), Moto Hagio (manga artist, The Poe Clan, Mesh), Charlaine Harris (author, Sookie Stackhouse novels; creator, True Blood), Dusty Higgins (artist, Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer), Tanya Huff (author, Blood series, The Truth of Valor), Kathryn Immonen (writer, Runaways, Patsy Walker: Hellcat), Stuart Immonen (artist, New Avengers, Ultimate Spider-Man, Moving Pictures), Van Jensen (writer, Pinocchio, Vampire Slayer), Phil Jimenez (writer/artist, Wonder Woman; artist, New X-Men), Jenette Kahn (president/editor-in-chief, DC Comics, 1976-1993), Keith Knight (syndicated cartoonist, The Knight Life, the K Chronicles, (th)ink), Jim Lee (artist, All Star Batman and Robin the Boy Wonder), Stan Lee (writer, editor, co-creator, Fantastic Four, Amazing Spider-Man, Incredible Hulk, et al), Paul Levitz (writer, editor, publisher, Legion of Super-Heroes), Milo Manara (artist, Click, Indian Summer, X-Women), Larry Marder (writer/artist, Beanworld), Carla Speed McNeil (writer/artist, Finder; artist, Queen & Country, Bad Houses), China Mièville (author, The City & the City, Perdido Steet Station), Dennis O’Neil (writer/editor, Batman, Green Lantern/Green Arrow), Robert M. Overstreet (author, comics historian, The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide), Tom Palmer (inker, Kick-Ass, The Avengers, Tomb of Dracula, Star Wars), Sean Phillips (artist, Criminal, Sleeper, Incognito), Ivan Reis (artist, Green Lantern, Blackest Night, Brightest Day), Douglas E. Richards (author, The Prometheus Project series), Rick Riordan (author, Percy Jackson & the Olympians series), Jerry Robinson (artist, Batman; syndicated cartoonist, comics historian), Steve Rude (artist, Nexus, World’s Finest), Jeannie Schulz (founding board president, Charles M. Schulz Museum), J. Michael Straczynski (writer, Superman, Wonder Woman), Drew Struzan (artist/illustrator, Back to the Future, Indiana Jones movie posters), James Sturm (cartoonist/educator, James Sturm’s America), Jillian Tamaki (artist, Skim, Indoor Voice), Doug TenNapel (writer/artist Earthworm Jim, Creature Tech, Catscratch), C. Tyler (artist/writer, You’ll Never Know: A Good & Decent Man), Ann VanderMeer (editor, Weird Tales), Jeff VanderMeer (author, City of Saints & Madmen, Finch), Gerard Way (writer, The Umbrella Academy), Al Wiesner (writer/artist/creator, Shaloman), Michael Zulli (artist, The Sandman, The Fracture of the Universal Boy)

About Comic-Con International:
Comic-Con International is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to creating awareness of, and appreciation for, comics and related popular art forms, primarily through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of comics to art and culture. In addition to its San Diego convention each summer, Comic-Con International organizes the San Francisco-based WonderCon each spring and the Alternative Press Expo each fall.

For those of you looking for the Conventions List, scroll on down, not even pausing to check out the article about ComicCon I’ve poured my blood sweat and tears into… (well at least sweat and tears). Nope. Don’t pay any attention to me. Nada. Zip. Zero.

It’s Back!! The Convention to end all conventions is back and bigger than ever. The San Diego Convention Center will be literally full to the brim with booth babes, swag and sweaty geeks. The streets of  San Diego will run green with alien blood July 21-24 (20-24 if you count preview day).

And our own Head Honcho, Grand Poobah, Mr. Wonka if you will, Dino Andrade will be there and this year he’s bringing some friends.

When he’s not running SG, Dino’s a voice actor with an impressive list of stuff: He’s the voice of the Scarecrow in Batman: Arkham Asylum; Mimiron, Mekkatorque and Professor Putricide (among others) in World of Warcraft, plus The Reaper in Brutal Legend.  His work can also be heard in Hellsing III, Call of Duty, Wolf’s Rain,  Guitar Hero, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Nerf N-Strike Elite, Revisioned Tomb Raider and much more.

And this year, joining Dino in SoulGeek’s booth will be such luminaries of the voice community as Phil LaMarr (Futurama, Samurai Jack),  Jennifer Hale (Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Mass Effect 3) Phil Proctor (Toy Story 1 & 2, Final Fantasy XIII), Gregg Berger (The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy, Halo Wars) and Rikki Simons (Invader Zim, NieA under 7).

The schedule is as follows:

Wednesday (Preview Night): Dino Andrade
Thursday: Dino Andrade, Phil Proctor, Rikki Simons
Friday: Dino Andrade, Phil LaMarr, Phil Proctor, Jennifer Hale, Rikki Simons
Saturday: Dino Andrade, Phil LaMarr, Jennifer Hale, Gregg Berger
Sunday: Dino Andrade, Phil LaMarr, Rikki Simons

So join us at Booth 5619! Get an autograph. Talk one of  the uninitiated into joining SoulGeek and bask in the radiance of our undying gratitude (for legal reasons I have to emphasize we can’t actually give you anything but they will get the first month free) Enjoy all the sights, sounds (and especially the smells) of the greatest Con the world (if not the universe as a whole) has ever seen.

Comic-Con International
July 21-24, 2011
San Diego, CA
www.comic-con.org/cci

Guests include Gerry Alanguilan (writer/artist – Elmer; inker – Ultimate Avengers), Sergio Aragonés (cartoonist, Groo, MAD magazine), Jean Bails (widow of Dr. Jerry Bails, the “Father of Comic Book Fandom”), Ed Benes (artist – Justice League of America, Birds of Prey), Anina Bennett (writer/editor – Heartbreakers, Boilerplate), Jordi Bernet (cartoonist – Torpedo 1936, Jonah Hex), Yves “Balak” Bigerel (writer/artist – Lord of Burger), Joyce Brabner (writer – Real War Stories, Our Cancer Year), Patricia Briggs (author – Mercy Thompson series), Chester Brown (writer/artist – Yummy Fur, Louis Riel, Paying for It), Ernie Chan (artist – Conan, Batman, Jonah Hex), Jo Chen (artist – Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Runaways, Xbox Fable), Seymour Chwast (co-founder of Push Pin Studios), Alan Davis (writer/artist – X-Men, ClanDestine, Avengers Prime), Dick DeBartolo (writer – MAD magazine), Tony DeZuniga (artist, Jonah Hex, Conan the Barbarian), Eric Drooker (painter, graphic novelist – Flood, Blood Song, Howl), Garth Ennis (writer/creator, Preacher, Crossed, The Boys), Mark Evanier (writer, comics historian – Kirby: King of Comics), Joyce Farmer (cartoonist – Wimmen’s Comix, Special Exits), David Finch (artist – Ultimate X-Men, New Avengers, Batman: Dark Knight), Dave Gibbons (artist – Watchmen, Give Me Liberty), Tsuneo Goda (director/animator/creator – Domo), Paul Guinan (artist – Heartbreakers, Boilerplate), Kim Harrison (author – The Hollows series), Jonathan Hickman (writer – Fantastic Four, The Nightly News), John Higgins (writer/artist/colorist – Razorjack; colorist – Watchmen), Charlie Huston (author – Hank Thompson series, Joe Pitt Casebooks), Jamal Igle (artist – Supergirl, Tangent: Superman’s Reign), Joëlle Jones (artist – You Have Killed Me, Troublemaker), Sherrilyn Kenyon (author – Dark-Hunter series, Lords of Avalon series), Peter Kuper (cartoonist/illustrator – Spy vs. Spy, World War 3 Illustrated), Richard Kyle (publisher – Comics Fandom Pioneer), Mell Lazarus (syndicated cartoonist – Miss Peach, Momma), Jim Lee (artist/co-publisher – DC Comics), Paul Levitz (former president and publisher – DC Comics; writer – Legion of Super-Heroes), David Lloyd (writer/artist – V for Vendetta, Kickback), Richard A. and Patricia Lupoff (writers, fanzine pioneers), Patrick McDonnell (cartoonist – Mutts), Rebecca Moesta (author – Buffy and Jedi Knight novels), Christopher Moore (author – A Dirty Job, You Suck), Grant Morrison (writer – All Star Superman, Batman Incorporated), Alex Niño (artist – Conan, Heavy Metal, God the Dyslexic Dog), Ethan and Malachai Nicolle (artist and writer – Axe Cop), Anders Nilsen (writer/artist – Big Questions), Jerry Robinson (cartoonist/author/historian – Batman, Jet Scott), Bill Schelly (comics fandom historian), Scott Shaw! (cartoonist/writer/historian – Oddball Comics, Captain Carrot and His Amazing Zoo Crew!), Louise Simonson (writer/editor – Power Pack, Superman: Man of Steel), Walter Simonson (writer/artist – Thor, Manhunter), Jeff Smith (cartoonist – Bone, RASL), Frank Stack (underground cartoonist – New Adventures of Jesus, Harvey Pekar’s American Splendor, Our Cancer Year), Jim Steranko (writer/artist/publisher – Nick Fury Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., Prevue), Cameron Stewart (artist – Seaguy, Seven Soldiers; writer/artist – Sin Titulo), Dave Stewart (colorist – Hellboy, BPRD, Baltimore, Lobster Johnson, Conan, Batwoman, Goon, Witch Finder), J. Michael Straczynski (writer – Superman: Earth One; creator – Babylon 5), Mark Tatulli (cartoonist – Lio, Heart of the City), Roy Thomas (writer, editor – Alter Ego), Maggie Thompson (fanzine pioneer; editor – Comics Buyers Guide), Peter J. Tomasi (writer – Green Lantern Emerald Warriors, Batman and Robin), Scott Westerfeld (author - The Uglies series, Midnighters trilogy), Ashley Wood (artist/designer – Popbot, World War Robot) and more to come!

(There’s also a rumor that Steven Spielberg will be attending for the very first time but it’s unsubstantiated.)

About Comic-Con International:
Comic-Con International is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to creating awareness of, and appreciation for, comics and related popular art forms, primarily through the presentation of conventions and events that celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of comics to art and culture. In addition to its San Diego convention each summer, Comic-Con International organizes the San Francisco-based WonderCon each spring and the Alternative Press Expo each fall.

…or, at least, Long Beach. In a journey that will surely take it’s toll in lives and sanity, this weekend sees our own Grand Poobah, Dino Andrade, attending the world-famous Long Beach Comic Con. And barring the unforeseen alien invasion or zombie apocalypse, he’s bringing some friends – such luminaries as Gregg Berger, Alexis Cruz, Richard Epcar and Walter Jones (see below for some of their voluminous  credits) will be sharing the titanic SoulGeek Booth with Dino, imbibing SoulGeek bottled water and munching on SoulGeek powerbars while cheerfully signing autographs (for a nominal fee of course).

Long Beach Comic Con
Oct 29-30, 2011
Long Beach, CA
www.longbeachcomiccon.com

“LBCC is an experience unlike other comic conventions. Developed by some of the industry’s most ardent supporters, it’s a gathering of professionals, fans, artists, celebrities (and possibly my mother) to enjoy all aspects of comic books and pop culture. Along with all the typical convention fare (screenings, panels, autograph sessions, artists and writers, costumes) we plan a few surprises. Like a Madonna concert. (Okay, that’s a complete lie – maybe next year).”

Guests include Dino Andrade (Batman: Arkham Asylum, World of Warcraft, Brutal Legend), BATT (Superman/Batman, New Avengers, Thor), Sean Becker (The Guild, My Gimpy Life), Joe Benitez (Aspen Comics; Lady Mechanika, Souldfire, Detective Comics), Gregg Berger (Halo Wars, Transformers, Batman: The Brave and the Bold), Blond (Superman, Supergirl, War of the Supermen, Adventure Comics), Tim Bradstreet (Punisher, Hellblazer, Vertigo), Amanda Conner (Power Girl, The Pro, Two-Step, DC Comics Cover Artist), Darwyn Cooke (DC: The New Frontier, The Spirit, Catwoman), Alexis Cruz (Stargate, Stargate SG-1 & Shark), Felicia Day (Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog, The Guild), Richard Epcar (Ghost in the Shell, Kingdom Hearts & MK vs. DC), David Finch (Batman: The Dark Knight, Ultimatum, Moon Knight), Hart D. Fisher (Boneyard Press, American Horrors), Richard Friend (Madame Xanadu, Steampunk, Wildcats), Joel Gomez (Authority, The Lost Boys, Wetworks), Ray-Anthony Height (Marvel Spider-Man: Back in Quack, Ape Entertainment’s R.P.M. Rapid Performance Machines), Rebecca Hicks (Little Vampires books & webcomic), Tom Hodges (Star Wars The Clone Wars web comic, MidKnight), Walter Jones (Power Rangers: Mighty Morphin’, Wild Force & Lost Galaxy), Drew Johnson (The Authority, Wonder Woman), Barbara Kesel (Aliens vs Predator: Booty, Legends of the Dark Crystal, Ghost Whisperer: The Muse), JJ Kirby (Backlash, The New Dynamix, X-Babies), JT Krul (Soulfire, Fathom, Mindfield, Green Arrow), Scott Lobdell (Teen Titans, Superboy, Red Hood & The Outlaws, X-Men, Generation X), Joseph Maddrey (Nightmares in Red, White and Blue, Not Bad for a Human), Mark McHaley (Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Batman Archives, Women Of Marvel), Mike McKone (X-Men, Fantastic Four, Exiles), Digger Mesch (founder of Art Asylum), Todd Nauck (Wildguard, Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, Young Justice), Dustin Nguyen (Streets of Gotham, Detective Comics, Batman, Wildcats), Peter Nguyen (Bruce Wayne Road Home: Catwoman, Gotham City Sirens), Steve Niles (Mystery Society, 30 Days of Night, Criminal Macabre), Angus Oblong (Creepy Susie and 13 Other Tragic Tales for Troubled Children, The Oblongs), Jimmy Palmiotti (Jonah Hex, Power Girl), Wendy Pini (Elfquest, Masque of the Red Death), Whilce Portacio (Uncanny X-Men, Heroic Age, Spawn, Batman Confidential), Livio Ramondelli (DC Universe Online MMORPG), Nei Ruffino (Birds of Prey, First Wave, Green Lantern Corps), Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo), Alex Sinclair (Batman: Hush, Blackest Night, Astro City, Wonder Woman), Beth Sotelo (Fathom Vol. 4, Soulfire Vol. 2, Shrugged), Cat Staggs (Star Wars artist), Richard Starkings (Elephantmen, Hip Flask, owner of ComicCraft), Mark Waid (Incorruptible, Irredeemable, Kingdom Come, The Flash), Joe Weems (Darkness, Artifacts, Hex: the Lost Tribe) and many more!

Another collection of the most insanely splendiferous cons in the universe.

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FEATURED CONVENTIONS

Gallifrey One
Feb 17-19, 2012
Los Angeles, CA
www.gallifreyone.com

“The 2012 Gallifrey One convention, celebrating the worlds of Doctor Who. Join us in February for three days of adventure at the world’s largest fan-run Doctor Who event.”

Guests include Paul McGann, Camille Coduri, Mark Sheppard, Louise Jameson, Maureen O’Brien, William Russell, Caitlin Blackwood, Richard Franklin, Tony Curran, Daphne Ashbrook, Yee Jee Tso, Eric Roberts, W. Morgan Sheppard, Simon Fisher-Becker, Philip Segal, John de Lancie, Toby Haynes, Richard Senior, Daniele Favilli, Nicholas Briggs, Waris Hussein, Barnaby Edwards, Jason Haigh-Ellery, Jane Espenson, Doris Egan, John Shiban, Michael Troughton, Beth Chalmers, Lisa Greenwood, Nigel Fairs, Travis Richey, Gary Russell, Phil Ford, Charlie Ross, Simon Guerrier, Richard Dinnick, Linda Thorson, Jay Acovone, Marv Wolfman, Virginia Hey, Chase Masterson, Vernon Wells, Jake McGann, Denton Tipton, Joshua Hale Fialkov, Matthew Dow Smith, Charlie Kirchoff, Blair Shedd, Richard Starkings, Javier Grillo Marxuach, Gillian Horvath, Eliza Roberts, David Gerrold, Barbara Hambly, Nancy Holder, Debbie Viguie, Larry Nemecek, Kevin Grazier, Steve Roberts, Arnold T. Blumberg, Ruth Wheeler, Paul Castle, Tim Hirst, Scott Alan Woodard, Trina Ray, Sarah Milkovich, Robert Smith?, Graeme Burk, Aimee Major Steinberger, Terry Rioux, David Wise, Paul J. Salamoff, Audry Taylor, Craig Miller and Eric Hoffman.

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Con-Dor 19
Mar 2-4, 2012
San Diego, CA
www.condorcon.org

“ConDor is a dessert parfait (and everyone likes parfaits!) made up of confectionery layers of science fiction, fantasy, horror, art, music, discussion, real actual space science, films, gaming, shopping, partying, and food!”

Guest of Honor – Lowell Cunningham (Men in Black)
Guest of Honor – Mike Bocianowski (The Yets)

Panelists include David Brin, Tim Burgard, Peter Clines, Elwin Cotman, Sue Dawe, Michael Dubisch, Denise Dumars, Sheila Finch, Laura Brodian Freas, Kevin Gerard, Jean Graham, Chris Marie Green, Brian Hart, John Hart, James Hay, Nancy Hay, Samantha Henderson, Arthur Holcomb, Nancy Holder, Calvin Johnson, Dani Kollin, Eytan Kollin, Judy Lazar, Allison Lonsdale, David Malki, Todd McCaffrey, Lisanne Norman, Val Ontell, Q. L. Pearce, Steven Potts, David Ross, Eric Shanower, Dave Smeds, Sherwood Smith, Richard Dean Starr, Pearl Stickler, William H. Stoddard, David Lee Summers, Jefferson Swycaffer, Janet Tait, Linda Thomas-Sundstrom, Tamara Thorne, Michael Underwood, Greg Van Eekhout, Vernor Vinge, Victoria J. Waks and Cynthia Ward.

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Steel City Con
Mar 2-4, 2012
Monroeville, PA
www.steelcitycon.com

“Free Goodie Bag when you buy a 3 day pass in advance and online! Goodie Bag valued at more than the price of the pass! Save almost 50% on admission when you buy a 3 day pass!!”

Guests (so far) include Anthony Daniels (everything Star Wars),  Billy Dee Williams (The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Batman), Corey Dee Williams (Return of the Jedi), Susan Olsen (The Brady Bunch), Christopher Knight (The Brady Bunch), Johnny Whitaker (Sigmond & the Sea Monsters, Family Affair), Kathleen Coleman (Land of the Lost), Wesley Eure (Land of the Lost), Butch Patrick (Lidsville, The Munsters), Ian Ziering (Beverly Hills 90210, Dancing with the Stars), Angie Everhart (Last Action Hero, Bordello of Blood), Gena Lee Nolin (Baywatch, The Price Is Right), Ian Petrella (A Christmas Story), Rosita (TNA Knockout) and more!

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Dan Con
March 4, 2012
Orland Park, IL
danconcomic.blogspot.com

“Dan Con is a smaller comic book convention, that is held in the Southern Suburbs of Chicago. The main concept behind Dan Con is to showcase the local comic book talent, comic book shops and local vendors that can be found here in the Chicagoland area.”

Guests include Aaron Shapps, Alex Rosado, Arsenic Lullaby, Ben Templemsith, Brian Babendererde, Brian Crowley, Chris Mitten, Comic Vault, Dan Dougherty, Dave Loso, Dave Schiedt, Descent of the Dead, Doc Boucher, Doc Reidy, Doug Klauba, Dustin Carson, Ellie Vile, Franchesco, Gabe Bautista, James Orbeson, Jay Fosgit, Jeff Balke, Jenny Frison, John Everson, John Metych, John Parker, Jon Kulczar, Joshua Warner, Juan Gomez, Kurt Mitchel, Legion Studios, Leo Perez Jon Lennon, Matt Waite, Menton3, Mike Beazley, Mike Giba Niel Klemz, Mike Moreci, Onrie Kompan, Paul Mounts, Peter G, PI Jane, Rafael Nieves, Randy Field, Ray Leonard, Robert Burns, Rodney Fyke, Ryan Browne, Ryan Schrodt, Scott Simmons, Shaemus Burke, Silver Phoenix Entertainment, Tim Selley, Tom Stillwell, Tony Akins, Tony Maldonado, Tony Mielo, Travis Purcel, Unshaven Comics and Vegatable Wars.

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Days of the Dead: Atlanta
Mar 9-11, 2012
Peachtree City, GA
www.daysofthedead.net/atlanta

“DAYS OF THE DEAD is a by the fans, for the fans, convention which had its inaugural show July 1st – 3rd, 2011, at the Wyndham Indianapolis West, located in Indianapolis, IN…Chock full of special events tailored just for the fans, an active after hours scene of horror themed parties, and a massive guest list of the hottest celebrity guests, artists, and up and coming independent film makers, DAYS OF THE DEAD has already began rewriting the script and setting the bar for what a true horror convention weekend should look like.”

Guests include “Rowdy” Roddy Piper (They Live, Hell Comes to Frogtown, wrestling superstar), Sid Haig (House of 1000 Corpses, Devil’s Rejects), Tyler Mane (X-Men, Devil’s Rejects, Halloween), Gary Busey (Silver Bullet, Predator II, Lethal Weapon), Bill Moseley (Devil’s Rejects, House of 1000 Corpses, Repo: Genetic Opera), Linnea Quigley (Night of the Demons 1 & 2, Return of the Living Dead),  Heather Langenkamp (Nightmare on Elm Street, New Nightmare, I Am Nancy), Derek Mears (Friday the 13th, Hills Have Eyes II, Predators), Brian Steele (Terminator: Salvation, Predators, Hellboy 1 & 2), Laurence Harvey (Human Centipede II), Jeff Burr (Pumpkinhead 2, Puppetmaster 4, Texas Chainsaw Massacre 3), Micah Sloat (Paranormal Activity 1 & 2), Nick Principe (Laid to Rest 1 & 2), Addy Miller (The Walking Dead), Larry Mainland (The Walking Dead), Charles Casey (The Walking Dead), Sonya Thompson (The Walking Dead), Keisha Tillis (The Walking Dead), Alex Vincent (Child’s Play 1 & 2), Mark Patton (Nightmare on Elm Street 2), J. Larose (Saw 3, Insidious), P.J. Soles (Halloween, Rock & Roll Highschool, Carrie, Stripes), Dey Young (Rock & Roll Highschool, The Running Man, Spaceballs), Amelia Kinkade (Night of the Demons, Night of the Demons 2), Barbara Crampton (Reanimator, From Beyond, Trancers 1 & 2),  Tom Woodruff Jr. (Pumpkinhead, Aliens vs Predator, Terminator), Alec Gillis (Aliens, Aliens vs Predator, Monster Squad), Howard Sherman (Day of the Dead, The Stand, Lethal Weapon 2), Brian Bremer (Pumpkinhead), Taafe O’Connell (New Years Evil, Galaxy of Terror) and Nivek Ogre (Repo: Genetic Opera, Skinny Puppy).

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WonderCon
Mar 16-18 2012
Anaheim, CA
www.comic-con.org

“WonderCon, one of the country’s best comics and pop culture conventions, moves to Anaheim, CA and the beautiful Anaheim Convention Center for 2012. Taking place the weekend of March 16-18 (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), WonderCon is coming off its best year ever, with over 49,000 attendees in its 25th annual event in San Francisco in 2011.”

In addition to all the great guests mentioned below, our own head honcho, Dino Andrade will be there autographing photos of the many characters he’s voiced in games such as World of Warcraft, Brutal Legend and Batman: Arkham Asylum.

Guests (so far) include Arthur Adams (artist – Monkeyman and O’Brian, Ultimate Comics: X),  Sergio Aragonés (cartoonist – Groo, MAD, Sergio Aragonés Funnies), Ernest Cline (author/screenwriter - Fanboys, Ready Player One), Renae De Liz (artist/editor – Womanthology, The Last Unicorn), Mark Evanier (writer / comics historian – Kirby: King of Comics), Matt Fraction (writer – Invincible Iron Man, Casanova, Fear Itself, Mighty Thor), Michael Golden (artist – The ‘Nam, Micronauts, Bucky O’Hare), Joe Hill (author – Locke and Key, Heart-Shaped Box), Rebekah Isaacs (artist – Angel, Faith, Magus), Richard Kadrey (author – Sandman Slim, Kill the Dead), Carol Lay (cartoonist – WayLay, The Simpsons), Jim Lee (artist – Justice League, Batman: Hush; DC Comics co-publisher), Mike Mignola (writer/artist/creator - Hellboy, B.P.R.D.), Todd Nauck (artist – Amazing Spider-Man, Young Justice), Steve Niles (writer/creator – 30 Days of Night, Criminal Macabre, Mystery Society), Eric Powell (writer/artist/creator - The Goon), Humberto Ramos (artist – Amazing Spider-Man, Impulse, Crimson), Bob Schreck (editor-in-chief - Legendary Comics), Scott Snyder (writer – Batman, American Vampire, Swamp Thing), Ryan Sook (artist – The Spectre; cover artist - Justice League Dark, DCU Presents), Fiona Staples (artist – Mystery Society, SAGA), Richard Starkings (writer/letterer/designer – Elephantmen), J. Michael Straczynski (writer – Superman: Earth One), Mark Waid (writer/editor – Kingdom Come, Irredeemable, Daredevil), Wil Wheaton (actor/author – Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Big Bang Theory), Marv Wolfman (writer/editor – New Teen Titans, Tomb of Dracula) and more.

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Omnicon 2012
Mar 16-18, 2012
Cookeville, TN
omnicon.us

“Omnicon is a scifi/fantasy convention, a gathering of people who share an interest (or interests) and get together to discuss it, hang out, and show off things like costumes. Omnicon covers a wide range of genres, including science fiction, fantasy, comic-books, video games, anime–the list goes on. There will be panels where people talk about their interests (or instruct you in a skill), special guests, contests, vendors, art, games, and the chance to win some free stuff. Last year was a great success, and everyone had a lot of fun, so come to Omnicon!”

Featured Guest: Jason C. Miller (actor/musician)

Guest Authors include Scott Baker, Chris Berman, Heather Calaway, Gregg R. Overman, Marina Sergeyeva and more.

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Mad Monster Party!
Mar 23-25 2012
Charlotte, NC
www.themadmonsterparty.com

“It’s a Mad Monster Party in Charlotte, North Carolina and you’re cordially invited! Join us March 23rd – March 25th, 2012 for a frighteningly fun festival for the whole family! Meet celebrity guests, dare to enter a walk-through haunted house; behold the Roadkill Garage exhibit featuring the scariest screen-used movie vehicles of all time like Christine, the Duel truck and the Maximum Overdrive Green Goblin head; face your fears at the Crypt Critter exhibit where you will encounter LIVE slithering serpents, aggressive arachnids and intense insects; murder your favorite songs during our Scaraoke showcase, visit the vendor room for the chance to see and buy horror memorabilia from around the world…see the Mystery Monster Museum exhibit, but don’t leave the party alone – take a chance at the Mad Mixer speed date because the monster demands a date!.”

Guests include Brad Dourif (Lord of the Rings, Child’s Play), Angus Scrimm (Phantasm, Subspecies), Joe Turkel (The Shining, Blade Runner), David Prowse (Star Wars, Clockwork Orange), Dee Wallace (E.T., Howling, Cujo, Critters), Marky Ramone (Rock ‘n’ Roll High School), Stephen Geoffreys (Fright Night, 976-EVIL), P.J. Soles (Halloween, Carrie, Rock ‘n’ Roll High School), Mary Woronov (Death Race 2000, Eating Raoul, Warlock), Ricou Browning (Creature From the Black Lagoon 1-3), Bill Moseley (The Devil’s Rejects, House of 1000 Corpses, Army of Darkness), Tony Todd (Candyman, Final Destination series, Platoon), Sara Douglas (Superman I & II, Conan the Destroyer), Richard Moll (House, Metalstorm: The Destruction of Jared-Syn), “Rowdy” Roddy Piper (They Live, Hell Comes to Frogtown), Derek Mears (Friday the 13th, Predators, Pirates of the Caribbean), Judith Roberts (Eraserhead, Dead Silence), Alex Vincent (Child’s Play 1 & 2), Patty Mullen (Frankenhooker, Doom Asylum).

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Lexington Comic and Toy Con
Mar 24, 2012
Lexington, KY
www.lexingtoncomiccon.com

“We are coming to town with a huge selection of vendors and exhibitors that span many genres. Comics – Toys – Magazines – Gaming – Horror – Anime – Movies – Art – Music – and More!!”

Guests include Craig Boldman (Jughead, Superman, ‘Mazing Man, Bugs Bunny), Drew Curtis (Fark.com), Katie Doyle (Road Rules, Kill Reality, Playboy), Molly Durst (Symphony of the Universe, Adventures in Crow City), Jonny Fairplay (Survivor, TNA Wrestling), Jason David Frank (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), Mike Grell (The Warlord, Starslayer, Jon Sable, Shaman’s Tears), Neil Kaplan (Transformers: Robots in Disguise, Power Rangers, Digimon, Tokyo Pig), Mark Kidwell (68, Bump, Dark Kingdom, Tyrannosaurus Rex), Jay Leisten (X-Men Legacy, Uncanny X-Men, Thor, Legion, Black Panther), Bob McLeod (Superhero ABC, Spider-Man, The X-Men, Superman, Batman), Mark Ryan (Transformers 1-3), Uko Smith (The Art of Uko Smith), Jamie Snell (Godzilla #1, Transformers Beastwars Source Book), Tammy Sytch (WWE diva, ECW, WCW, ROH), Tom Williams (No Dead Time), Dean Lorey (Arrested Development, My Wife & Kids, ‘Til Death, Running Wilde), Jason Narvy (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Power Rangers Zeo, Power Rangers Turbo), Catherine Sutherland (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Power Rangers Zeo, Power Rangers Turbo), Nakia Burrise (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Power Rangers Zeo, Power Rangers Turbo) and RD Hall (Frankenstein: Monster Mayhem, American Wasteland: Blood and Diesel).

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Annapolis Comic-Con
Mar 24-25, 2012
Annapolis, MD
www.annapoliscomiccon.com

“Annapolis Comic-Con at the Roger “Pip” Moyer Recreation Center in Annapolis, Maryland on March 24-25, 2012. Comics, collectibles, original art, contests, prizes, and more!”

Special guests include John Ostrander, J. K. Woodward, Greg LaRocque, Steve Conley and many more!

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Would you like to be a featured convention?  Send an email to Britt at: conventions@soulgeek.com and ask us how?

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OTHER CONVENTIONS

Boskone 49
Feb 17-19, 2012
Boston, MA
www.nesfa.org/boskone

Do you love science fiction and fantasy? Join us at Boskone, a regional science fiction convention, which features: exciting exhibits, inspiring events and an acclaimed program that encourages members to interact with an impressive array of well-known participants in the field. Our innovative no-boundaries layout is designed to stimulate conversation between friends (old and new), and support the warm family-friendly community. Join us as we explore the worlds of the human imagination—all served up with a dash of whimsy!

Guest of Honor - John Scalzi
Official Artist – Daniel dos Santos
Special Guest - Toni Weisskopf
Featured Filker - Tricky Pixie (S. J. Tucker, Betsy Tinney and Ben Deschamps)
NESFA Press Guest - Jerry Pournelle
Hal Clement Science Speaker – Bruce Schneier

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ConDFW XI
February 17-19, 2012
Dallas, TX
www.condfw.org

“ConDFW is a literary science fiction and fantasy convention featuring writing and publishing-focused programming, science programming, excellent guests, art show, charity book swap, short story contest, and a slew of non-traditional activities such as the Sci-Fi Spelling Bee. Brought to you by the Texas Speculative Fiction Association, a 501 (c)(3) organization. 100% volunteer-run.”

Guests of Honor include Cherie Priest and William Stout.

Panelists include Aelle Ables, C. Dean Andersson, Lou Antonelli, Julie Barrett, Paul Black, Karen Bogen, Darlene D. Bolesny, Tony Brownrigg, Rachel Caine, Lillian Stewart Carl, R. Cat Conrad, Bill Crider, Scott Cupp, Peggy Dee-Haslbauer, Chris Donahue, Linda Donahue, P.N. Elrod, Rhonda Eudaly, Gabrielle Faust, Bill Fawcett, Mark Finn, Michael Ashleigh Finn, Melanie Fletcher, Brad W. Foster, Christopher Fulbright, Ciara Gold, David L. Gray, O.M. Grey, Beverly A. Hale, Candace Havens, Angeline Hawkes, Ren Hobt, Kevin Hosey, Rocky Kelley, Thomas W. Knowles, William Ledbetter, Stina Leicht, Julia S. Mandala, A. Lee Martinez, Frances May, Michelle Muenzler, Ethan Nahte, Melia Newman, Gloria Oliver, Scott R. Padget, Stephen Patrick, Teresa Patterson, K. Hutson Price, Dusty Rainbolt, Nina Romberg (a.k.a. Jane Archer), Rie Sheridan Rose, Selina Rosen, Patrice Sarath, Bradley H. Sinor, Sue Sinor, A. P. Stephens, Robert Stikmanz, Frank Summers, Shanna Swendson, S. Boyd Taylor, Kerry Tolan, Katherine Turski, Jaye Wells, Martha Wells and Mel White.

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MegaCon
Feb 17-19, 2012
Orlando, FL
www.megaconvention.com

“MegaCon, short for Mega Convention, is a large convention that caters to the comic book, sci-fi, anime, fantasy, gaming, and multi-genre community, occurring between late February and early March at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, USA. An attendee will find over 156,000 square feet (14,500 m2) of exhibit space with merchandise including: comic books, toys, anime merchandise, clothing, gaming supplies, swords, and much more.”

Media guests include Tony Amendola (Stargate SG-1, Sarah Connor Chronicles), David Anders (Vampire Diaries, Alias, Heroes), Bruce Boxleitner (Tron, Tron: Legacy, Babylon 5), Nicholas Brendon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Criminal Minds), Charisma Carpenter (Angel, Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Tia Carrere (Warehouse 13, Relic Hunter, Wayne’s World), Lauren Cohan (Vampire Diaries, Supernatural, The Walking Dead), Stephen Furst (Babylon 5, Animal House, St. Elsewhere), Peter Jurasik (Babylon 5, Tron, Sliders), Daniel Logan (Attack of the Clones, The Clone Wars), Peter Mayhew (Star Wars III-VI), Eddie McClintok (Warehouse 13), Paul McGillion (Stargate: Atlantis), Joseph Morgan (The Vampire Diaries, Ben Hur), Kate Mulgrew (Star Trek: Voyager, Warehouse 13), Corin Nemec (Stargate SG-1, Supernatural), Valerie Perrine (Superman, Slaughterhouse 5), Ethan Phillips (Star Trek: Voyager & Enterprise), David Prowse (Star Wars IV-VI, Clockwork Orange), Saul Rubinek (Warehouse 13, Frasier), Tim Russ (Star Trek: Voyager & DS9), Matt Senreich (Robot Chicken, Titan Maximum), Brent Spiner (Star Trek: TNG, ID4, Gargoyles), Scott Tepperman (Ghost Hunters International), Zeb Wells (Robot Chicken, Amazing Spider-man), Laura Bailey (Soul Eater, Shin Chan, Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood), Todd Haberkorn (Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, Soul Eater), Mark Meer (Mass Effect 1-3). Vic Mignogna (Fullmetal Alchemist, Tsubasa Chronicle), Brina Palencia (Summer Wars, Soul Eater, Boderlands), Christopher Sabat (Dragonball Z, Fullmetal Alchemist), Travis Willingham (Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, The Super Hero Squad Show), Arne Starr (Star Trek, NCIS: LA).

Comic Book guests include Stan Lee (comic book legend), Tony Bedard (Green Lantern: New Guardians, Blue Beetle), Dennis Calero (Legion of Superheroes, Ex-Men: Noir), J. Scott Campbell (Spider-Man, Wildsiderz, GEN 13), Greg Capullo (Spawn, Batman), Nick Cardy (Aquaman, Congo Bill, Teen Titans), Frank Cho (New Ultimates, Liberty Meadows), Amanda Conner (Terra, Powergirl), Daxiong (JLA, Star Wars), Dan DiDio (DC Comics co-publisher), Chuck Dixon (G.I. Joe, The Simpsons), Nathan Edmondson (Grifter, Olympus), David Finch (Cyberforce, New Avengers, Batman: The Dark Knight), Paul Gulacy (Jonah Hex, True Believers, JSA Classified), Cully Hamner (Green Lantern: Mosaic, The Shade, Blue Beetle), Phil Hester (The Darkness, Wonder Woman, Green Hornet), Greg Horn (Elektra, Emma Frost), Rob Hunter (Justice League of America, Rann Thanagar Holy War), Dan Jurgens (Superman, Thor, Captain America), Barbara Kesel (Womanthology: Heroic, Chics in Capes, Animal Planet’s Most Dangerous Animals), Bob Layton (Iron Man, Hercules), Pablo Marcos (Conan, Red Sonja, Star Trek: Next Generation), Graham Nolan (Bane, Captain America: Hail Hydra, Sunshine State), Phil Noto (Avengers: Origins, Batgirl), Jimmy Palmiotti (Time Bomb, Freedom Fighters, Jonah Hex), Dan Parent (Betty & Veronica, Archie & Friends), Paul Pelletier (Incredible Hulk, Fantastic Four), Brandon Peterson (Uncanny X-Men, Ultimate Extinction), Don Rosa (Scrooge McDuck, Donald Duck), Stephane Roux (Birds of Prey, Supergirl), Frank Tieri (New Excalibur, Iron Man, Marvel vs. Capcom), Tim Townsend (Amazing Spider-Man, X-Men), Billy Tucci (Jonah Hex, Shi), Ethan Van Sciver (Green Lantern: Rebirth, Superman/Batman), Zeb Wells (Amazing Spider-Man, Robot Chicken), Jeff Balke (Zombies VS Cheerleaders, John Carpernter’s ASYLUM), Jeremy Dale (Skyward, GI Joe), Aya Knight (The Chronicles of Kale) and Arne Starr (Star Trek, Dr Who).

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MystiCon
Feb 24-26, 2012
Roanoke, VA
mysticon-va.com

“Welcome to MystiCon, a convention by the fans for the fans. We are excited to be returning for a second year. Please take a look around to see all of the amazing guests and events we have planned for you this year. 2012 is guaranteed to be a stellar year. We hope to see you there!”

Author Guest of Honor – Sherrilyn Kenyon (The Dark-Hunters series, The League series, Lords of Avalon series)
Media Guest of Honor – Nicki Clyne (Battlestar Galactica)
Artist Guest of Honor – Ursula Vernon (Nurk, Digger)
Musical Guest of Honor – Bella Morte
Master of Ceremonies  – Rich Sigfrit

Writing guests include Danielle Ackley-McPhail (author), Jer Alford (indie publishing), MJ Allaire (author), Mike Allen (author), Nicholas Anderson (blogger), Catherine Asaro (author), Davey Beauchamp (author), Danny Birt (author), David H. Blalock (author), Nancy Brauer (author), Tyree Campbell (author), Rebecca Carter (author), Alexandra Christian (author), Marcia Colette (author), Richard C. Cook (author), Jason Cordova (author), Betty Cross (author), Mark Davis (author), Keith R.A. DeCandido (author), Paul Dellinger (author), Gregory Eatroff (author), Judi Fleming (author), Deborah Smith Ford (author), Andrew Fox (author), John L. French (author), Dr. Charles E. Gannon (author), Bethany Halle (author), David Halperin (author), Elektra Hammond (author), C.J. Henderson (author), Faith Hunter (author), Barbara Friend Ish (publisher/author), Emmy Jackson (author), Tally Johnson (author), Pamela Kinney (author), Alethea Kontis (author), Dr. Livingston (science), Gail Z. Martin (author), Ellen C. Maze (publisher), Mike McPhail (author), John Meagher (author), Jennifer Mulvihill (author), Lynn O’Dell (editor), Jana Oliver (author), Mike Pederson (author/editor), Beth (author), Kalayna Price (author), Herika Raymer (author/editor), Tony Ruggiero (author), Rob Shelsky (author), Zachary Steele (author), Michael Ventrella (author), Dieter Warringhouse (author), Leona Wisoker (author), Allen Wold (author) and Stephen Zimmer (author).

Art/Gaming guests include Brandon Blackmoor (gaming), Hershel Brewer (artist), Bron Duncan (photographer), Shan Eberhardt (artist), Daniel French (artist), Jeremy Massie (artist), Charles Matheny, Emily Mottesheard (graphic designer), Greg Porter (gaming), David Quiles (artist), Claire Sieffert (artist), Christina Stiles (gaming), Matthew D. Smith (artist), Travis Surber (web comic), April A. Taylor (artist), John Watts (gaming) and Brian Zickafoose (artist).

Film/Media guests include Anita Allen (costuming), John Birmingham (filmmaker), Black Raven Paranormal, Boogie Knights (music), Jaysen Buterin (filmmaker), Michele Capamaggio (costuming), Paul Cardullo (filmmaker), CBZL (music), Matt Cloude (filmmaker), Charles Cullen (filmmaker), Lyssa Erb (costuming), David Gwin (filmmaker), Brian Holloway (Actor/Costuming), Samra Iara (bellydancer), John Johnson (filmmaker), Lady Kris (costuming), Ian Little (filmmaker), Mad One Films, Mikey Mason (comedian), Christine Parker (filmmaker), Angela Pritchett (costuming), Procyon 5 (music), “The Bruce” Scholl (podcaster), Ron Scott (actor), Star City Roller Girls, Amber Teachey (actress), Allegra Torres (costuming), Jimmy “Boogie Woogie Man” Valiant (wrestler), Alan Watkins (filmmaker), Michael Williams (actor), Stephen Wilson (podcaster), Derek Young (filmmaker) and Zom Bie (music/actor).

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Tampa Bay Comic Con
Mar 3-4, 2012
Tampa, FL
www.tampabaycomiccon.com

“We are pleased to announce a new development with the addition of the Supercon 2K Gaming Series. For the casual gamer there will be workshops and giveaways. For the hardcore gamer there will be tournament events in which national rankings will be awarded!”

Guest of Honor: Jim Steranko (Captain America, S.H.I.E.L.D., X-Men)

Additional guests (so far) include Mike Grell (artist – Green Arrow, Jon Sable, Warlord), Pablo Marcos (artist – Conan the Barbarian, Red Sonja, Star Trek), Mike Mayhew (artist – Fear Itself: The Home Front, Storm, Zorro), Mike Perkins (artist – Astonishing X-Men, Captain America), Mark Ryan (actor/writer – Transformers, The Pilgrim), J. David Spurlock (publisher – Vanguard Productions).

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Planet Comicon 2012
Mar 24-25, 2012
Overland Park, KS
www.planetcomicon.com

“Kansas City’s largest pop culture and comic book convention”.

Media guests include Billy Dee Williams (Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Batman), Blair Butler (Heart, Attack of the Show), Erin Gray (Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, Silver Spoons, The Guild), Jake Lloyd (Phantom Menace), Felix Silla (Addams Family, Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, Return of the Jedi), Robin Thorsen (The Guild), Amy Okudo (The Guild), Adrienne Wilkinson (Xena: Warrior Princess, Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Comic book and other creator guests include Jason Aaron, Jeremy Bastian, Scott Beaderstadt, Terry Beatty, Cullen Bunn, Rick Burchett, Anna Maria Cool, Ashley Corbello, Rob Davis, Kevin Dilmore, Tony Fleecs, Nathan Fox, Garage Art Studios, Rudy Garcia, Michael Golden, Alex Grecian, Chris Grine, Jeremy Haun, Phil Hester, Dennis Hopeless, Brian Hurtt, Jennifer Janesko, Dave Johnson, Matt Kindt, John Layman, John Lucas, Bruce McCorkindale, Mike McKone, Kevin Mellon, B. Clay Moore, Mario Mora, Chris Moreno, Jeff Moy, Phil Moy, Jai Nitz, Mike Norton, Phil Noto, Dan Parent, Ande Parks, Seth Peck, Rick Remender, Tone Rodriquez, Don Rosa, Steven Sanders, Mark Dos Santos, Alex Saviuk, Todd Aaron Smith, Rick Stasi, Joe Staton, Arthur Suydam, Ben Templesmith, Mark Texeira, Dayton Ward, Freddie Williams II, Darryl Woods, Mike Worley, Bernie Wrightson, Skottie Young and more.

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World Horror Convention
Mar 29 – Apr 1, 2012
Salt Lake City, UT
www.whc2012.org

“The World Horror Convention is an annual gathering of professionals in the horror industry; publishers, authors, artists, musicians, filmmakers, dealers and, of course, horror fans. WHC serves as both an industry insider’s networking event and a chance for fans of the genre to get together, meet some of the creative talents in the field, and generally spend a weekend celebrating All Things Scary.”

Author Guest of Honor: Sherrilyn Kenyon
Artist Guest of Honor: Mike Mignola
Toastmistress/Author: P.N. Elrod
Editor Guest of Honor: Scott Allie (Managing Editor Dark Horse Comics)

Special Guests include John Picacio & Mort Castle, Michael R. Collings & Michaelbrent Collings.
HWA (Horror Writers Association) Guests of Honor include Joe R. & Karen Lansdale, Robert McCammon.
HWA Lifetime Achievement Award Winners include Joe R. Lansdale & Rick Hautala.
HWA Special Guests include Dacre Stoker & Jeff Strand.

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Emerald City Comicon
Mar 30 – Apr 1, 2012
Seattle, WA
www.emeraldcitycomicon.com

“The Emerald City Comicon (ECCC) is an annual comic book convention taking place in Seattle, Washington. Originally taking place at the city’s Qwest Field (first at West Field Plaza, then at the Event Center), the venue changed to its current home at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center since 2008. In 2011, the show expanded to a three-day event.”

Special Guests include Sal Abbinanti, Mike Allred, Eric Basaldua, Chuck BB, Joe Benitez, Ryan Benjamin, Ed Brubaker, Brian Buccellato, Alan Burnett, Chris Burnham, Jacen Burrows, Kurt Busiek, Dennis Calero, Aaron Campbell, Scott Campbell, Greg Capullo, Jonathan Case, Joe Casey, CB Cebulski, Keu Cha, Michael Cho, Marian Churchland, Brian Churilla, Matthew Clark, Brian Clevinger, Ryan Cody, Katie Cook, Colleen Coover, Camilla d’Errico, Farel Dalrymple, Daxiong, Mike Debalfo, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Nunzio DeFilippis, Louie Del Carmen, Anthony Del Col, Lar DeSouza, Terry and Rachel Dodson, Gerry Duggan, Nathan Edmondson, Casey Edwards, Joe Eisma, Jay Faerber, Nathan Fairbairn, Ray Fawkes, Tom Feister, Tom Fowler, Matt Fraction, Francesco Francavilla, Sean “Cheeks” Galloway, Agnes Garbowska, Mitch Gerads, Chris Girarrusso, Bryan JL Glass, Jason Gorder, Brandon Graham, Adi Granov, Sanford Greene, Raven Gregory, Brad Guigar, Brian Haberlin, Travis Hanson, Eddie Harris, Jeremy Haun, Phil Hester, Nicolas Hitori de, Greg Horn, Jason Howard, Georges Jeanty, Brandon Jerwa, Nat Jones, Zealand Jones, Joëlle Jones, Joe Keatinge, Dave Kellett, Robert Kirkman, Barry Kitson, Jeff Krell, Scott Kurtz, Erik Larsen, Emi Lenox, Corey Lewis, Steve Lieber, Aaron Lopresti, David Mack, Francis Manapul, Clay Mann, Billy Martinez, Conor McCreery, Randy Milholland, Scott Mills, Tony Moore, Scott Morse, Dustin Nguyen, Ethan Nicolle, Steve Niles, Justin Norman, Phil Noto, Kevin Nowlan, Michael Avon Oeming, Ryan Ottley, Andy Owens, Jeff Parker, Tony Parker, Ramón Pérez, David Petersen, Nate Powell, Brian Pulido, Ragnar, Mark Rahner, Rick Remender, Jamie S. Rich, Chris Roberson, Darick Robertson, Don Rosa, Riley Rossmo, Greg Rucka, Nei Ruffino, Steve Sadowski, Tim Sale, Chris Samnee, Ben Saunders, Gregg Schigiel, Brandon Seifert, Evan “Doc” Shaner, Bill Sienkiewicz, Mark Silvestri, Gail Simone, Dan Slott, Matthew Dow Smith, Ryan Sohmer, Charles Soule, Matthew Southworth, Nick Spencer, Kris Straub, Philip Tan, Ben Templesmith, Bruce Timm, Marcus To, Paul Tobin, Eric S. Trautmann, Dean Trippe, Jim Valentino, Jen Van Meter, Eric Vedder, Dexter Vines, Matt Wagner, Adam Warren, Scott Wegener, Christina Weir, Shane White, Kurtis Wiebe, Joshua Williamson, Bill Willingham, Mike Wolfer, Brian Wood, Jim Woodring, Christopher Yost, Thom Zahler, Jim Zubkavich and Chrissie Zullo.

Media guests include Adam Baldwin, Jon Bernthal, Tia Carrere, Tom Felton, Summer Glau, Laurie Holden, Christopher Judge, Christopher Lloyd, Eddie McClintock, Katee Sackhoff, George Takei and Wil Wheaton.

Voice Talent guests include Kevin Conroy, John DiMaggio, Jess Harnell, Maurice LaMarche, Rob Paulsen, Tara Strong and Billy West.

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Marcon 47: Galactic Beach Party
April 6-8, 2012
Columbus, OH
marcon.org

“Marcon (Multiple Alternative Realities Convention), the Midwest’s Premiere Fantasy & Science Fiction Convention, is the most fun you can have in a year, packed into a single weekend.”

Guests include Tamora Pierce, Sarah Clemens, Paula Guran, Julian Glover, Dr. Bradley Lepper and Erica Neely.