TREKKIE CONVENTION OPENS TODAY AT NOON AT CAPE HOLIDAY INN

There may or may not be life on Mars or even a far away galaxy, but those attending the annual Continuum Convention will keep their imaginations fueled. The three-day convention begins at noon today at the Holiday Inn. More than 350 people are expected.

Highlighting the convention will be actor Peter Jurasik, who plays Londo on "Babylon 5"; writer-actor Andrew Robinson, who plays Garak on "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine"; artist Keith Birdsong, who has done the cover of many Star Trek novels; and writer Phil Farrand, author of The Nitpicker's Guides for Trekkers.

Continuum president Jane McGaugh founded the group in late summer 1988.

McGaugh, an employee of Southeast Missouri State University, said Continuum tries to give Star Trek/Babylon 5 enthusiasts a chance to attend the annual event by rotating convention sites. Last year, the convention was held in Illinois and featured actor John de Lancie.

Those who attend the convention come from all over the country and from all walks of life.

"We have people registered from Florida, Iowa, Wisconsin, Kansas, Texas and many other places," said McGaugh. "They are lawyers, doctors, teachers, construction workers, from all walks of life."

Continuum is fan-run, non-profit organization with members in Missouri, Illinois and Kentucky. For the past five years the group has sponsored a convention. Continuum's mailing list contains more than 2,000 names.

McGaugh said the convention is full of fun.

Tribble breeders show (furry creatures from the original 1960s' Star Trek series that multiply at a rapid rate), Star Wars Monopoly tournaments, Trivia contests, costume contests and a masquerade ball.

Those participating in the tribble breeders show will earn money for charity.