Visioncon indulges interest in science fiction, fantasy
by Heather Fann

You don’t have to dress like a Trekker or know the name of every character on “Battlestar Galactica” to enjoy science fiction.

Even if you just occasionally watch the latest sci-fi television shows and movies, organizers say you will have a great time at Visioncon, Springfield’s science fiction, fantasy and gaming convention.

The nonstop event begins at noon today and continues through Sunday at the Clarion Hotel. Actors, authors, artists, and collection dealers will be on hand throughout the event to fully indulge you in the world of science fiction.

“We have tried to gather guests that will really get people excited,” says event coordinator Keith Moncrief. “The event has just about everything – art, discussions, gaming, animation – you name it.

Visioncon offers a complete art show with various mediums depicting science fiction themes and ideas. Along with the art, people can discuss science fiction ideas and show with actors from popular shows.

“We will offer various panels discussing things from the life and careers of particular actors to the motivation and ideas behind a show,” Moncrief says.

“Among our guests are Richard Hatch and Jack Stauffer from ‘Battlestar Galactica’; Robert Wortham Krimmer from ‘Babylon 5’; and local fantasy author Sandra C. Morrese, in addition to those who are returning to the convention.”

The addition to the featured guest list is a testimony to the convention’s strength, says Karen Culp, a spokeswoman for the event.

“The difference with this year’s Con is that we have headlining guests that are really top-level in the science fiction guests in terms of notoriety,” she says. “We are really lucky to have them to Con.

“This year is the 10th year and is kind of a testament to how much we have grown.”

Guests can not only visit with authors, artists and actors, but also search for a sci-fi treasure in the dealers’ room. Pieces of science fiction memorabilia will be available for purchase throughout the weekend.

Also featured at the event is animé, Japanese animation techniques.

“I think my favorite part of Con is the Bayview Animation Society,” says Culp. “This is very unusual and very popular, especially with Pokéman really prevalent these days.

“The society works really hard to bring some stuff to the Springfield area that we wouldn’t have the chance to see very often.”

No matter what type of science fiction you enjoy, Culp says that you will find something to keep you busy at Visioncon. “The truth is that there is something there to entertain everybody,” she says.