Memorial and Awards Honor Dr. Patrick Roberts

The Dragon*Con Art Show honored its former director, Dr. Patrick James Roberts (1962-2008), with a memorial Saturday evening and dedicated this year’s Dragon*Con Art Show and awards to his memory. Co-director Jon Parise narrated a video featuring Patrick and his interests.

The video included many candid photographs of Patrick taken by jewelry artist Scott Hancock at previous Dragon*Cons.  Descriptions of Patrick’s volunteer efforts as art director and his professional work in aeronautical engineering, including development of the F-35 military aircraft and space shuttle tile reinforcement program, highlighted the ceremony.

Patrick was also honored posthumously with this year’s Fandom Award.  His daughter Nicole accepted the award on her father’s behalf.

Also to honor Patrick, the “Dragon Heart” box Special Artists’ Project was held to benefit the American Heart Association.  The 12 entries submitted by Dragon*Con artists will be available for bidding at the Voice Auction to be held Mon 12PM in Hanover C-E.  The heart-shaped art was also judged and included in Art Show awards.

Author of the article

Amy L. Herring (Louise Herring-Jones) writes speculative fiction, with a preference for historical fantasy and alternate mystery. Her stories, appearing in fourteen anthologies, include “The Poulterer’s Tale” in God Bless Us, Every One—Christmas Carols beyond Dickens (Voodoo Rumors Media). Amy coordinates the HSV Writers’ group in Huntsville, AL. Visit her online at http://www.louiseherring-jones.com.