 Nekocon
is held a short distance from the naval base in Norfolk, and thoughts about
the soldiers and sailors in harm's way belonged to everyone at the opening
ceremonies. "I'd like to thank the convention staff who are in the armed
forces for letting us do what we do, and for the freedom that we cherish
so much," said long-time fan Rob Lantz. "Let's go out and enjoy the weekend
that they gave us." |
 Larry
Drews, vice-chair of the convention, noted that fan volunteers Larry Wise
and John Roberts were not at NekoCon because they had been called to active
military duty from reserve status. "Sept. 11 brought this convention close
to our hearts. I want us to remember those who are not here at theis convention,
defending our right to be here," said Drews. |
 Introduced
as the guests of honor were some familiar faces who are accomplished anime
industry professionals, such as animator Scott Frazier... |
 ...producer
Toshifumi Yoshida of Viz Video... |
 ...and
artist Colleen doran, who joked that she and Frazier had the same hair
color. |
 Not
much hair of any color for close-shorn artist Fred Perry, but there were
stories ahead about his self-produced Gold Digger animation. |
