Stony Brook Again Welcomes I-CON

By Ian Rice 
Arts and Lifestyle Editor 

As it has in countless years prior, Stony Brook University cordially welcomes the I-CON festival to its campus. The festival, which runs from March 24 through March 26, is the mecca of all science fiction gatherings, attended by the most devoted fans of the genre each year. This year, the event's twenty-fifth installment, is shaping up to be the most successful yet, with a list of guests, activities and promotions that fans are chomping at the bit to absorb. 

According to its official website, the I-CON festival is designed to encourage literacy, creativity and interest in science and technology through science fiction and its related genres. Programming at I-CON spans a wide range of topics and interests, including science fiction, fantasy, horror, Japanese animation (otherwise known as Anime), science and technology, comic books, and medieval reenactment. 

Among the names slated to appear at this year's festival are George Takai, who played Sulu in the original "Star Trek" television and film series; Kevin Sorbo, whose claim to fame is his starring role as Hercules in the American television series of the same name; Michael Uslan, a film producer whose credits include "Batman Begins" and "Constantine"; Cassandra Peterson, better known as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark; and Mark Goddard, who portrayed Major West in the pioneer sci-fi television series, "Lost In Space." Due to unforeseen circumstances, featured guest Erin Gray, star of the popular television series "Buck Rogers," is unable to attend this years event. 

In addition to being the cornerstone of the sci-fi community, the I-CON festival has also proven to be a positive event for the University itself. I-CON draws an average of 6,000 attendees each year, all of which are exposed to the diversity and beauty of the Stony Brook campus. The turn-out this year is expected to meet if not exceed previous years, leaving fans and university administration more than hopeful. 

For more information regarding the I-CON festival, including a full itinerary and directions, visit http://www.iconsf.org