R2-D2, Spock, Spider-Man, The Joker and other pop culture icons made appearances at the Stockton Arena, as these characters and more all packed the arena for the eighth annual StocktonCon over the weekend. Thousands of fans of all ages showed up, many in costume, and made their way through the two stories of the arena. The top floor featured celebrities, special guest artists, a video game area and more.
Amongst the many celebrities on hand was a trio from the television hit The Office, Oscar Nunez, Leslie David Baker and Brian Baumgartner. The three hosted a panel where they discussed their time on the show and interacted with fans. Anson Williams from Happy Days was also in attendance. Known as “Pottsy Webber” on the show, Williams made time for his fans at the convention.
“It’s a great time. I love seeing all the fans and families here. It’s been a great time,” said Williams.
Other notable celebrity guests were in attendance including Power Rangers Austin St. John and Nakia Burrise. Sam Jones (Flash Gordon), George Newbern (Scandal) and John Glover (Gremlins) also held meet and greets over the weekend.
Voice over legends Steve Whitmire (Muppets), Carey Means (Aqua Teen Hunger Force) Mary Gibbs (Monsters Inc.), Keone Young (G.I. Joe), and Bret Iwan (Mickey Mouse) were some of the voice over actors who were in attendance.
Pro wrestling royalty and up and coming superstars rocked the con when Hall of Famer’s Kurt Angel and Lita held meet and greets. Wrestling fans were also thrilled to see Chavo Guerrero Jr., Vickie Guerrero and Marty Scrull.
“Meeting Chavo was a big honor. A hero in my culture,” said attendee Alexandro Flores.
Outside, throughout both days, Supreme Pro Wrestling out of Sacramento entertained the crowd. They held tag matches, singles competition and more during both days of the event.
Comic book artists and illustrators Aubry Sitterson, Dan Brereton, Ming Chen, Chris Moreno, Chris Marrinan, Tim Bradstreet and Lonnie Millsap were just a few of the many artists on hand.
“This is truly one of my favorite events to appear at. The folks in Stockton are incredible,” said Brereton.
Comic books, toys and collectibles ruled the weekend. Locals and well-traveled vendors packed the arena floor.
“There are so many things to do here, so many great things to see. I love seeing all the vintage toys and comics. It’s amazing,” said Stacy Thomas of Stockton.
Mike Millerick has been the mastermind behind StocktonCon.
“We had record setting numbers this past weekend. I don’t have the exact amount of attendees, but I can tell you that we had a record setting attendance on Saturday,” said Millerick. “I want to thank everyone who makes it possible. There are so many folks who help put this on. Utility Telecom is our major sponsor and partner. We cannot do it without them. Jason Mills and his staff are tremendous. We also want to thank United Way, our artists, the special guests and we truly want to thank the fans and families that came out.”
One of the big things Millerick takes pride in is the amount of families that attend. He was not the only one who noticed the amount of families at the event.
“I have been a part of many conventions in my time. I am being completely honest when I say this, I have never seen more families at a convention than I have this weekend,” said Bradstreet. “You see a lot of attendees at other conventions and festivals but here, it was entire families joining together to make it fun for their kids. Everyone is dressed up and having fun.”
The Geek Fashion Show hit the stage on Sunday afternoon with six designers showing off their lines. Models included cosplay artists, other models and even dogs.
