Calling all superheroes and science fiction fans, the 15th annual Uticon comic book and sci-fi convention will return to Mohawk Valley Community College in Utica on Sunday, Sept. 23.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the American Cancer Society.

“There’s always new and different people to meet, new and different projects to see,” said Robert Elinskas, the host of Uticon. Elinskas is senior community development manager for the Northeast Region of the American Cancer Society.

​“For all ages and all different interests, there’s something unique to find.”

The convention will feature appearances by over 24 professional and semi-professional writers and artists in the comic book and publishing industries. Uticon will also host vendors, collectors, photo ops and a number of local creators.

New this year will be an appearance by longtime Marvel Comics artist Bob Almond, who has worked on such comics as “Black Panther” and “Guardians of the Galaxy”. Other professionals include longtime DC Comics writer Bob Rozakis, “Dr. Strange” writer Peter Gillis and past “Spider-Man” scribe Todd Dezago.

Uticon will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 23 at the Alumni Center Building at MVCC’s Utica campus. Admission will be $5 for adults, $3 for teens and students and children 12 and under are free.

“We’ve continued to grow each year. The response from the fans has been wonderful,” said Elinskas. He added that the professional guests enjoy coming back each year. “They really appreciate the fans of this area.”

The Ghost Seekers of Central New York will also be in attendance to show off their array of ghost-hutning equipment and allow fans to test it themselves. The Ghost Seekers are also promoting their new television show “Ghost & Toast”.

The Klingon Assault Group Stark Trek costume club will be making their first appearance at Uticon, and will be joined by the returning Rebel Alliance Star Wars costume club. Both groups will be available for pictures.

Uticon will also feature vendors selling new and old comic books, role-playing games, toys and other pop culture items.

For more information on Uticon and the guests and vendors, visit their website at www.uticoncomicshow.com or find them on Facebook.