Press Release: Officers at the Lansing anime convention, Shuto Con, kicked off plans for the 2012 convention with some big announcements. Special guests Mary Elizabeth McGlynn, Todd Haberkorn and Doug Smith have been confirmed to attend as presenters next year. McGlynn is best recognized for her role as Motoko Kusanagi in the cult, cyberpunk anime series and movies, Ghost in the Shell. She has also performed some singing roles in the popular Silent Hill games. Haberkorn has received much acclaim as the role of "Italy" in the anime Axis Powers Hetalia, satirizing warring nations in WWII. Smith will return for his second year to present his original artwork and discuss his part in the short anime series, Golden Boy, where he plays a perverted, but loyal student of the world around him. "Doug was so much fun last year," said Guest Coordinator, Will Burgess. "He really engaged the audience as his infamous and hilarious Golden Boy character."

Among other events, there are plans for a formal ball, Pokemon gym leader challenge, and "cosplay refresh" room, where costumed attendees can repair garments and take photos, among events added to the 2012 schedule. "This year we had a great show, but with this lineup of guests and events so early, it looks like this will be the best convention yet," said Burgess.

More information about guests and events can be found at the Shuto Con website: www.shutocon.com.