SoonerCon Event Schedule
SoonerCon 28 is June 7-9 at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center in Norman, Oklahoma. Plan your SoonerCon weekend now by clicking on a guest profile to see their appearance schedule or download a PDF of the event schedule using the buttons below.
Friday, June 7, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
JediOKC: Oklahoma City Star Wars Fan and Collectors Club
After more than 15 years, the Force is strong with JediOKC. Learn more about the family-friendly club's activities, charity work, and fellowship through the love of cosplay and being a geek.
Panelists: JediOKC
Tracks: Costuming & Fashion, Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Creating a Short Story: Harder than You Think
There are many paths to the peak of the mountain, says an old proverb. Authors discuss what works for them, and share common stumbling blocks to avoid when crafting short stories.
Panelists: Lou Antonelli, J.H. Fleming, vickey malone kennedy, Michelle Muenzler, Sue Sinor
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
Gaming Across the Generations
How can you game with kids? Join us to talk about the challenges you might come across when gaming with children and how you might overcome them.
Panelists: Tyrell Gephardt, Phillip Hollecker, Barrett Huddleston, David "Oak" Rice, Stevo the Gutter Nerd, Christina Stiles
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Character Building Exercises
Some characters spring forth, fully realized as Athena. Others might be throwaways, or that guy who annoyed you in high school. Panelists share tips and techniques for keeping characters real and memorable.
Panelists: Catherine Cooke Montrose, Carolyn Kay, vickey malone kennedy, Shayla Raquel, Christina Stiles, Craig Wolf
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Together, We Are Better: Identity and Diplomacy in Star Trek
Cultural nuances make upStar Trek’s memorable world building. Races within and outside of the Federation discover each other, work, and learn together. But Trekisn’t without its bad blood, warring factions, and competing interests. Alliances are made by an unwavering appreciation for each species’ differences that elevates the idea of common good across the universe. Is this the great legacy of Rodenberry’s genius?
Panelists: Sissy Space, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Chaz Kemp, Larry Nemecek, Peter Pixie
Tracks: Fandoms, Film & TV, Culture & World Affairs
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
Here Be Dragons and Art
Dragons appear throughout legend, myth, and fairy tales from around the world and in art throughout the ages. Visual creators analyze the forms of these creatures in different cultures, as well as today's various sf artistic expressions of the ultimate fantastic beast.
Panelists: Caleb Haldane, Mitzi Bartlett, Brenna Deutchman, Rachael Mayo, Sir William Rothmeyer, Scott Zrubek
Tracks: Art
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
I Was a Whovian Before it Was Cool
Discuss and learn about the iconic Doctor Who: Classic Series, the series before the current series! I Wonder… what you'll learn!
Panelists: Michael Cross, Capt. Sean MacTaggart, Rebecca Jackson, Myron Moody, Martha Steele
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
Cosplay: The Horror & The Joy
Everybody has a fail story. Cosplayers share their disasters, worst moments, and how they survived to achieve a triumphant costume comeback.
Panelists: Kathleen M. O'Brien, Divine Creations Cosplay, PinkCherry Cosplay, E.T. Wardwell
Tracks: Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
New Ancestral Myths
Writers, artists, and editors discuss recent works which combine characters from ancient myths with modern themes, situations, and aesthetic trends in order to create stories about today's concerns with mythical resonance. What do they actually say about ourselves in the current moment?
Panelists: Mel. White, Lou Antonelli, Carolyn Kay, Michael R. Martin, Caleb Masters
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Art, Comics
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
Before and After the Apocalypse
What happens after the world ends? How has the threat of apocalypse changed how we live, how we work, how we govern in the modern age? What's the state of the grid, and all the things we take for granted?
Panelists: Dr. Marc DiPaolo, Tim Frayser, Michelle Muenzler, Jeff Provine, Haileigh Todd, Adam J. Whitlatch
Tracks: Science Fiction, STEM, History, Pop Culture & Entertainment
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
Writing the Epic: Voices, Layers, Landscape
Panelists discuss writing a many-layered epic, whether science fiction or fantasy. What makes a story epic? What does it mean to think outside the Tolkien box? How do you pick POV? How many characters are too many? What elements have proven most challenging or most useful? Is epic still meaningful in the modern world?
Panelists: Tex Thompson, Kevin J. Anderson, Phillip Drayer Duncan, David Carrico, Deborah Chester, Laura J. Underwood
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
Godzilla: King of the Monsters, King of the Box Office
Let's talk about what we all just watched last weekend: Godzilla: King of the Monsters
Panelists: Teddy Harvia, Blair Bartlett, Capt. Sean MacTaggart, Peri Charlifu, Matt Frank, Brian Trent
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Yoda, the Space Wizard: High Fantasy in the World of Star Wars
Even though it's set in space, Star Wars has its share of knights, damsels, and monsters. Join us in a discussion about the fantasy elements of Star Wars.
Panelists: Mel. White, James Dock, Tyrell Gephardt, Haileigh Todd, E.T. Wardwell
Tracks: Fandoms, Film & TV, Science Fiction, Fantasy
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
The Future of Art In the Digital Age
With point-and-click applications and the ability to download any image in the world, how will art evolve in the future? What are the primary differences between traditional media and digital artwork that collectors are looking for? Can digital art be considered fine art?
Panelists: Scott Zrubek, Mitzi Bartlett, Julie Dillon, Chaz Kemp, Eric Osborn
Tracks: Art
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
It Was the Aliens
Mankind has been telling stories of invasion for centuries. Modern books and movies are full of stories of how the world would end by aliens. Join our discussion on the alien invasion in pop culture and how it's influenced the apocalyptic genre in general.
Panelists: Mark Alfred, Ethan Nahté, Harold Neal, Joey "Okie Space Queen" Rodman, Selina Rosen, Ann Shelby
Tracks: Supernatural & Paranormal, Pop Culture & Entertainment
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
The Writers' Group: Band of Allies or Dysfunctional Family
A discussion of writers' groups: their dynamics and their possible value. Compare online forums versus face-to-face groups. How can you tell if you've stumbled into something dysfunctional or delightful, without a sounding board? How to network? Advice for authors at any stage of development looking to join a writing group.
Panelists: Karen Thrower, Linda L. Donahue, Julia S. Mandala, Seth Skorkowsky, B. J. Thrower, Kim Ventrella
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Business & Marketing
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Boo, Hiss! Beloved Villains
Voldemort; Saruman; Lex Luthor -- explain the charm of bad guys who absolutely revel in their villainy.
Panelists: David "Oak" Rice, J.H. Fleming, James Hollaman, Catherine Cooke Montrose, Peter Pixie
Tracks: Fandoms
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Yoda, the Space Wizard: High Fantasy in the World of Star Wars
Even though it's set in space, Star Wars has its share of knights, damsels, and monsters. Join us in a discussion about the fantasy elements of Star Wars.
Panelists: Mel. White, Sherri Dean, James Dock, Tyrell Gephardt, Haileigh Todd, E.T. Wardwell
Tracks: Fandoms, Film & TV, Science Fiction, Fantasy
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
The Three F's: Friends, Family, and Foes
Behind every main character is a cast of their friends, family, and foes. How do these relationships interact to improve the story?
Panelists: Rhonda Eudaly, Jan S. Gephardt, Michael R. Martin, Bradley H. Sinor, Tommy B. Smith
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Fantasy
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Science: The Core of Sci-Fi's Sense of Wonder
Many readers come to sci-fi for the wonder of imagining fantastic new worlds. They want their breath taken away by the long scope of time, of evolution and geology and the stars. What is that sense of wonder in new experiences and how do people feel it differently? What science in science fiction most succeeds at getting to those feelings?
Panelists: Adrian Simmons, Tyrell Gephardt, William Leaf, Dr. Laura-Isobel McCall, Joey "Okie Space Queen" Rodman
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Science Fiction, STEM
Tags: Panel
Friday, June 7, 2019 9:30 p.m. | Location: Embassy Hotel: Interior Courtyard - Atrium
SoonerCon @ Midnight: Worst Book Ever
Join us in the hotel bar as intrepid writers lay on their best purple prose to create titles and openings for the Worst Book Ever, hosted by Larry "Dr. Trek" Nemecek! (Supplies provided.)
Panelists: Larry Nemecek, Phillip Drayer Duncan, Dan Erickson, vickey malone kennedy, Ted Pennella, Rook Riley, Kim Ventrella
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Gaming
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 10:00 a.m. | Location: Boomer A
IDIC and Speculative Fiction’s Highest Ideals
“Infinite diversity in infinite combinations.” “I grok in fullness.” “Fear is the mind-killer.” “After all this time? Always.” “What’s the point in two hearts if you can’t be a bit forgiving now and then?” “Do. Or do not. There is no try.” How do these and other inspirations from sf illuminate our reality?
Panelists: Peter Pixie, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Carolyn Kay, Marguerite Reed, The Dream, Scott Zrubek
Tracks: Culture & World Affairs, Pop Culture & Entertainment, Science Fiction, Fantasy
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 10:00 a.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Vampires Across the Ages
Long a staple of Urban Fantasy, vampires first appear in folklore, and were markedly different from Stoker's Count; even more so from Yarbro's noble St. Germain, or the sparkles from Twilight. We discuss the influences of those early roots, and look at the many changes.
Panelists: Wm. Mark Simmons, Rachel Caine, Sherri Dean, Trakena Prevost, Tommy B. Smith, Mel. White
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Fantasy
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 10:00 a.m. | Location: Sooner A
Urban Legends
Squatch hunting and so much more. Join us for a lively discussion of some of Oklahoma's home-grown urban legends.
Panelists: Magician Michael Corley, James Hollaman, Jeff Provine, Rook Riley, Joey "Okie Space Queen" Rodman, Ann Shelby
Tracks: Supernatural & Paranormal
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Sooner A
Words Are Hard: Writing Believable Dialogue
We all have trouble elucidating our thoughts at times. So how can writers do it for two or three (or more!) main characters and dozens of supporting characters? How can you encourage the reader to hear the voices in your head the same way you do? How do you write for a political view with which you may disagree, or a gender with which you don’t identify?
Panelists: Catherine Cooke Montrose, David Carrico, Deborah Chester, Lee Killough, Laura J. Underwood, Adam J. Whitlatch
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Boomer A
Far-Fetched Doomsdays
Meteors and nuclear war are so last century. Come up with new, intricate, and implausible ways for mankind to check out, or life on Earth to end.
Panelists: Phillip Drayer Duncan, Rhonda Eudaly, Tyrell Gephardt, Michelle Muenzler, Selina Rosen, Adrian Simmons
Tracks: Science Fiction, STEM, History, Pop Culture & Entertainment
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Craft Isn't a Four-Letter Word
There is nothing wrong with being crafty! We will discuss separating hobby crafts from fine crafting, as well as making the leap from amateur to professional. Come defend your passion! A non-judgement zone for crafters and creators.
Panelists: Peri Charlifu, Tim Chessmore, Chelsea Haldane, Rubiee Tallyn Hayes, Heather Johnson
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 Noon | Location: Boomer A
And the Killer Is…
From Psycho, to Citizen Kane, to TZ's "To Serve Man," what are your favorite "Gotcha!" moments in storytelling? Don't forget literature. Is a written twist harder than in the visual arts?
Panelists: Brian Trent, Mark Alfred, Michael R. Martin, Sue Sinor, Steven E. Wedel
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 Noon | Location: Boomer B
In Defense of Difficult Women
Maleficent, Elphaba, Ursula, and other witchy women who won't stay where we put them. Panelists dissect the characterizations of complex women in SF storytelling, how they are written well or written poorly. How do these characterizations of women compare to real-life portrayals of women in media?
Panelists: Shai Fenwick, Dr. Marc DiPaolo, J. H. Fleming, Marguerite Reed, Sissy Space, Caroline Spector
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
The Art Robotic
From mechs and jaegers like Optimus Prime, Hal 9000 to Johnny 5 to Bubo to Bender, Maschinenmensch to Mars rovers to Robby the Robot and R2-D2, how awesome is it to draw robots? Celebrating one of sci-fi art's all-time favorite subjects and the techniques artists use to bring them to life.
Panelists: Jerry Bennett, Kent Clark, Teddy Harvia, Kevin Hopkins, Terry Southard
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
The Lore Breakers
For awhile, everyone knew how to kill a vampire or werewolf, until writers started changing things to make their critter “better.” Where is the line drawn? When is a bloodsucker or changeling no longer a vampire or wolf man?
Panelists: Phillip Drayer Duncan, Sherri Dean, Linda L. Donahue, Tim Frayser, Julia S. Mandala, B. J. Thrower
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
"I Saw It in the Window" Fabric Stories
Come and discuss the best ways to use fabric in your costume. From using curtains, drapes, and sheets, to best fabric choices, we discuss the good, great, and not-so-great designs.
Panelists: Kathleen M. O'Brien, Julie Barrett, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., PinkCherry Cosplay, Melanie Unruh
Tracks: Costuming & Fashion, Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Endgame, and the Future of the MCU
Discuss the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the year's exciting new additions to the franchise and what Endgame means for the future of some of our favorite superheroes.
Panelists: Dr. Marc DiPaolo, Phillip Hollecker, vickey malone kennedy, Ethan Nahté
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
A Shift in Urban Fantasy
Werewolves and shifters have become ever more popular in UF. Authors describe their own werewolf or shifter characters, how they connect with their human side, and how that shapes the story.
Panelists: Steven E. Wedel, Lou Antonelli, Bekah June, Lee Killough, Michael R. Martin
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Fantasy
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
Eight Decades of Superman
Superman first appeared in June of 1938, in Action Comics #1, then got the first self-titled superhero comic the following year. How has pop culture's iconic hero changed or stayed the same? And we'll recall that brief, dark time in the 90s when the world went without him (he got better).
Panelists: Matthew Price, Mark Alfred, Buck Berlin, Kent Clark, A. Lee Martinez, E.T. Wardwell
Tracks: Comics
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: University B
Top Priority: Self-Care for Artists
If you want to be a productive and happy artist, you have to take care of yourself! If you’re not healthy, happy, well-rested, well-fed and hydrated, your work will suffer. Our panel discusses things to do to make self-care a part of your daily routine!
Panelists: Rhonda Eudaly, Sir William Rothmeyer, Allison Stein
Tracks: Art, Business & Marketing, Health & Wellness
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
Cosplay for Fun or Cosplay FTW
There are many different reasons for cosplaying for each cosplayer. Come learn the differences, share your own, maybe even learn something new!
Panelists: Kathleen M. O'Brien, Capt. Sean MacTaggart, James Dock, Honor Lychee, Kyros Cosplay, Sissy Space
Tracks: Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
The Beginning, Present, and Future of Podcasting
Join a broad spectrum panel lineup of podcasters, who share why they got started, what's best about it, and where they see podcasting going in the future. Forward momentum!
Panelists: Martha Steele, Alexandra Bohannon, Caleb Haldane, Nick Johnson, Caleb Masters, Stevo the Gutter Nerd
Tracks: Podcasting
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
The Muse, the Artist, and Everything!
What motivates us? How do artists become inspired? Is there really such a thing as “The Muse”? Lets talk about what makes us create art, and how we come up with the ideas that fuel our creative passions.
Panelists: Jan S. Gephardt, Blair Bartlett, Julie Dillon, Teddy Harvia, Rubiee Tallyn Hayes, Mike Kloepfer
Tracks: Art
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: University C
The Voice of Evil
Villains can be more entertaining than heroes, but there are subtle ways that voicing our favorite baddies differs from voicing the good guy. Learn those differences, and how voice actors develop these characters using various vocal techniques.
Panelists: Summer Rain Cosplay, Prince Blackheart, Austin Tindle, Haileigh Todd, Sarah Wiedenheft
Tracks: Anime, Performing Arts
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
Droid Building 101 with OKC R2-D2 and Others!
Everyone's favorite astromech droid shows off his secrets and makers share progress on their latest droid projects.
Panelists: James Dock, Paul Barrett, K-9, OKC R2-D2
Tracks: Maker, STEM, Pop Culture & Entertainment
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
Dungeons and Dragons: 45 Years Strong
D&D was first published in 1974, making it a venerable 45 years old. How has it changed over the years? How is it stronger than ever these days? Do you remember the "Satanic Panic" of the 80s? And what about that Tom Hanks movie?
Panelists: Magician Michael Corley, Dennis McDonald, Rook Riley, Seth Skorkowsky, Christina Stiles, Karen Thrower
Tracks: Gaming, Pop Culture & Entertainment
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Noir's the Thing
The hard-boiled detective stories of the past; we love 'em. Who has successfully brought the genre to fantasy and sci-fi settings? What are some "must have" elements, and what are some favorites?
Panelists: Toni Weisskopf, Kevin J. Anderson, A. Lee Martinez, Bradley H. Sinor, Tex Thompson, Craig Wolf
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 4:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Before We Entered Wakanda: Minority Characters in SF Film and TV
Take a look at roles of minority characters in science fiction and fantasy before the popularity of the Black Panther film.
Panelists: Trakena Prevost, Shai Fenwick, Johnnie Johnson, Chaz Kemp, David "Oak" Rice, Selina Rosen
Tracks: Film & TV, Culture & World Affairs
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
SonarCon: Sandwich Battles
Where did the hoagies, grinders, and sub sandwiches of American culture originate? How do you make a "proper" one? Are burritos a sandwich? What about hot dogs? Only in America! A play on words that birthed a real panel.
Panelists: Joey "Okie Space Queen" Rodman, Aislinn Burrows, Caleb Haldane, James Hollaman, Nick Johnson, Travis Nance
Tracks: Food & Drink
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
Libraries in the Digital Age
In a world where we can get almost anything at the touch of a button, including books, (e-books and audio books), who needs libraries? YOU do! Come learn why libraries (and librarians) are the best soldiers we have in the war against ignorance.
Panelists: Craig Wolf, Cary Osborne, Tommy B. Smith, Martha Steele, Laura J. Underwood
Tracks: Culture & World Affairs, Writing & Publication, Internet Life
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
Science in Star Trek?
We like to think that Trek is fairly accurate science-wise. But don't look too close. Let's discuss the plausible science behind wormholes, transporters, and more.
Panelists: Michael Cross, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Tim Frayser, William Leaf, Dr. Laura-Isobel McCall, Ted Pennella
Tracks: Fandoms, STEM, Film & TV
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
What is Crossplay?
Learn about Crossplay and its history, with tips and tricks to improve your skills!
Panelists: Summer Rain Cosplay, Courtney's Cosplay, Mrs. Fae, PinkCherry Cosplay
Tracks: Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
What is Crossplay?
Learn about Crossplay and its history, with tips and tricks to improve your skills!
Panelists: Summer Rain Cosplay, Courtney's Cosplay, Divine Creations Cosplay, Mrs. Fae, PinkCherry Cosplay
Tracks: Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Saturday, June 8, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Creating Despite Depression or Anxiety
At some point, every creator will be afflicted with these issues as part of the ups and downs of life. Creating through depression and anxiety instead of walking away is sometimes the best option. Authors and artists talk about the techniques they use for working while living with a neuro-atypical brain.
Panelists: Alexandra Bohannon, Hazel Conley, Julia S. Mandala, Marguerite Reed, Adam J. Whitlatch
Tracks: Health & Wellness, Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Sooner B
The Defeated Foes of Godzilla
Rodan, Mothra, and King Ghidorah are just a few of the kaiju titans Godzilla has fought over the years. Who are your favorites, and how do they stack up?
Panelists: Caleb Haldane, Dan Erickson, Matt Frank, Nick Johnson, A. Lee Martinez, Terry Southard
Tracks: Film & TV, Pop Culture & Entertainment
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Boomer A
Anime Diamonds in the Rough
There are dozens of new anime every season, not counting the hundreds already released with established, decades-long fandoms. This panel will look at some hidden gems that fans may have overlooked.
Panelists: Sally Hamilton, Capt. Sean MacTaggart, Brittany Ellis, J.H. Fleming, Sarah Wiedenheft
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Virtual Reality: The Ethics and Morals of a New Medium
Virtual reality, like all new media of human interactions, opens a new can of worms regarding ethics. What are the limits of user privacy? How do we protect children? What kinds of applications may inform these choices?
Panelists: Mel. White, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Maureen McHugh, Tim Morgan, Wm. Mark Simmons, Austin Tindle
Tracks: Internet Life, Culture & World Affairs, STEM
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Sooner A
Body Language: How to Draw an Image in Your Fiction
More than half of our communication occurs through body language, much of which is instinctual rather than conscious. Because of this, non-verbal clues can be hard to recognize and therefore reproduce successfully. This panel discusses techniques to increase your awareness of body language and how to incorporate such descriptions into your fiction.
Panelists: Tex Thompson, Deborah Chester, Linda L. Donahue, Lee Killlough, Trakena Prevost, Tommy B. Smith
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 Noon | Location: Boomer A
Name that Pokémon
For those who aren't familiar with Pokémon, come take a guess at the names of these funny-looking creatures in a-style game.
Panelists: Summer Rain Cosplay, Kimber Chessmore, Sally Hamilton, David "Oak" Rice
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 Noon | Location: Boomer B
Successful Writing Habits
Writers share their tips for success. Covering everything from how to overcome Writer's Block to what to do when real life interrupts. Let our panelists share some tips.
Panelists: Jan S. Gephardt, Kevin J. Anderson, Rachel Caine, Shayla Raquel, Seth Skorkowsky, Caroline Spector
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 Noon | Location: Crimson Meeting Room
What Is a Furry?
Furries. Is it just a specialized form of anthropomorphic cosplay? Or is it more than that, or maybe something else entirely? How are fursuit mechanics different from other types of costuming? Are furries "dressing up," or are they revealing their true inner selves? Let’s talk about it.
Panelists: Capt. Sean MacTaggart, Tyrell Gephardt, Terry Southard, Mel. White
Tracks: General Interest, Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 Noon | Location: Sooner A
The B-Movie Panel
Bad sci-fi movies are a guilty pleasure for so many of us! Why do we love movies that love to be bad? The legendary B-movie panel.
Panelists: Melinda LaFevers, Sherri Dean, Tim Frayser, Bekah June, Selina Rosen, Adrian Simmons
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
Upcycling Props
Ever wonder how cosplayers and sewists make fabric, ribbon, and mundane items into beautiful accents for garments? We show you how to upcycle those household items & thrift-store finds into first-rate props for your completed costuming look.
Panelists: Sherri Dean, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Kathleen M. O'Brien, Prince Blackheart, Sissy Space
Tracks: Cosplay, Costuming & Fashion, Maker
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Ladies of the Legion
A presentation and info session by women from the official Star Wars clubs (501st, Rebel Legion, and Mandalorian Mercenaries) offering how-tos and starter guide information for costumers planning and building a Star Wars costume specifically designed for women’s bodies and forms.
Panelists: Carousel Costumes, Stephanie Aungst, Denise McKay
Tracks: Cosplay, Costuming & Fashion, Maker
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Aahh!!! Real Monsters: Tentacles in SF
We'll talk about the intrusion by tentacles into sci-fi and fantasy. Let's discuss their metaphorical uses and celebrate just how cool cephalopods actually are. From Verne to Lovecraft to Tolkien’s “Watcher in the Water” to John Carpenter’s The Thing to Star Wars and Arrival, what's so creepy about tentacles?
Panelists: Ethan Nahté, Dan Erickson, Carolyn Kay, Tedd Pennella, Bradley H. Sinor, Karen Thrower
Tracks: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
Thanks, I Hate It: Artists' Horror Stories
Being an artist is not all sunshine and art openings! Even the best have their haters and detractors. But some unfortunate comments and feedback can be funny as hell! Have a good chuckle at our expense, and drop by to hear some artist horror stories.
Panelists: Scott Zrubek, Tim Chessmore, Kent Clark, Johnnie Johnson, Mike Kloepfer
Tracks: Art
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Evolving Military SF
Military SF is an ever-evolving genre because the tools of war and social mores change. With the rise of private military companies, and the ability of the extremely wealthy to purchase private armies, it often feels like the real world is coming closer to military SF. But military SF's core is the sense of a team, which has not changed since spears and swords. Our panelists talk about the intersection of technology, fiction, and military culture.
Panelists: Toni Weisskopf, David Carrico, William Leaf, Selina Rosen, Brian Trent
Tracks: Writing & Publication, History, Science Fiction
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
How Not to be the Creepy Person in the Corner
There she is, looking radiant in her Squirrel Girl cosplay. So what do you do now? You want to talk to her, but it feels awkward. How to approach this situation without coming across as "That Guy?" A candid talk on the increasing difficulty of meeting new people and picking up on social cues.
Panelists: Dan Erickson, James Hollaman, Kyros Cosplay, Travis Nance, Caroline Spector, Karen Thrower
Tracks: Culture & World Affairs, General Interest
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: University C
The Shining Women of Anime
Female protagonists are some of anime’s most fiercely capable, beloved, and admirable characters. Women and girls in anime reimagine cultural views on power, duty, beauty, wish fulfillment, and coming-of-age storytelling. How do empowering gender roles in anime create new twists on Japanese lore and its fantastic legends?
Panelists: Summer Rain Cosplay, Courtney's Cosplay, Sally Hamilton, Honor Lychee, PinkCherry Cosplay, Sarah Wiedenheft
Tracks: Anime, Culture & World Affairs
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A
What's in a Nom de Plume?
Why do many authors use a pen name? To hide identity, or to change genres while escaping reader expectations based on the name alone? When is it a good business decision, and how do you go about choosing that new identity?
Panelists: Melinda LaFevers, Kevin J. Anderson, Lou Antonelli, Rachel Caine, Cary Osborne, Steven E. Wedel
Tracks: Writing & Publication
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
Open Discourse and You
The latest installment in the ongoing discussion of censorship, political correctness, the rules of polite society, self-control, and freedom of expression. We'll briefly discuss the bad aspects of these behaviors that are alienating people and what we can do to encourage more positive interactions online and in-person. How can you express dismay without rage?
Panelists: Martha Steele, Tim Frayser, Michelle Muenzler, Marguerite Reed, Haileigh Todd, Craig Wolf
Tracks: Culture & World Affairs, Internet Life
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A
Three Types of Magic in Fantasy
There are charms (magic anyone can use with the right chant); invocations (getting a demon or the like to do it for you); and innate magic (it’s part of the magician). Does all magic have the same limits or are the limits flexible? Which is the easiest to use in your story?
Panelists: Linda L. Donahue, A. Lee Martinez, Catherine Cooke Montrose, Adrian Simmons, Christina Stiles, Laura J. Underwood
Tracks: Writing & Publication, Fantasy
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner B
Art of The Long Game: Maintaining Momentum and Not Giving Up
It’s easy to be super motivated when your art business is brand-new. But keeping momentum is hard, with the setbacks and problems that every artist faces. Our panel of artists share strategies that will keep you focused and productive!
Panelists: Jan S. Gephardt, Peri Charlifu, Tim Chessmore, Brenna Deutchman, Julie Dillon, Dan Erickson
Tracks: Art, Business & Marketing, Health & Wellness
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B
Favorite or Best Costumes
What costumes have you had the most fun with? Let the panelists talk about what was the most fun for them and why.
Panelists: Sissy Space, Vanessa Green, Kyros Cosplay, Mrs. Fae, E.T. Wardwell
Tracks: Cosplay
Tags: Panel
Sunday, June 9, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Oklahoma G
Sixty Years in the Zone
This retrospective on The Twilight Zone’s 60th anniversary is just an excuse to reminisce about our favorite episodes -- or the ones that creeped us out the most. All iterations of TZ are fair game.
Panelists: Wm. Mark Simmons, Mark Alfred, Brian Trent, Craig Wolf
Tracks: Film & TV, Pop Culture & Entertainment
Tags: Panel