Madicon is one of those small and close knit cons. There were plenty of activities to keep you busy, but still with time to just sit back and hang out with friends new and old. I’m looking forward to next year to see what they come up with. They have already got the dates set for next year, March 9-11. If you are in the area and want to attend a friendly, con this is it.

Zenkaikon is pleased to announce attendance numbers for its 5th annual convention, which took place March 18-20, 2011. The staff of Zenkaikon 2011 welcomed 3168 paid members — a 59% increase over their last event. Including guests, vendors, artists, staff, press, and other complimentary memberships, 3422 people were present at the 2011 convention.

Ai-Kon is looking for talented people like yourselves to design a commercial for the 2011 convention. Entries are due by June 6th, and the winner will be announced on June 11th. The winning entry will receive 2 tickets to Ai-Kon and early access to the vendor room on Friday.

There’s been a storm of rage gusting through fandom recently, all directed at one Rob Granito. It began last week with a Bleeding Cool article and culminated in a verbal smackdown delivered at MegaCon by the irate Mark Waid and Ethan Van Sciver. Now several conventions, including Wizard World, have dropped Mr. Granito.

Ramon Fagan gives a detailed recap of All-Con 2011 (which had a steampunk theme this year). The report also includes several photos of cosplayers and the bands that performed during the convention.