Mark Alfred
OKC-area book editor Mark Alfred loves sixties media, classic sci-fi and fantasy, old-time horror, and pop culture in general. He recently invaded the filkers too. He helped start SoonerCon 1 in 1986 and was a co-founder of the new Soonercon when it recommenced in 2006. He loves coming up with cockeyed panel ideas and is gratified when people show up for them.
Follow Mark Alfred online at
1:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
Mythic Beginnings: The Influence of Folklore on Speculative Fiction
How do myths, legends, and folklore inspire modern sci-fi and fantasy? Panelists discuss the timeless stories that shaped the genre.
Moderator: Pigeon
Panelists: Jeff Provine, Madilynn Dale, Mark Alfred, J.H. Fleming, Pigeon
2:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
Lost Legends: Forgotten Faves from Childhood
Remember that one show, cartoon, or movie from your childhood that seemed to vanish into obscurity? The one you can't stop talking about, but everyone else swears it never existed? This panel is for you! Join fellow fans as we dig into those hidden gems -- TV shows, cartoons, and movies that didn't get the love they deserved. Let's share memories, rediscover lost favorites, and see if we can convince others these lost legends were real!
Moderator: Dr Paisley
Panelists: Dr Paisley, La Blanke, Trina Jacobs, Mark Alfred, GalaxyGh0st
5:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Crimson Meeting Room
The Golden Age of Sci-Fi: What Makes Classic Stories Endure?
What elements from the "Golden Age" of science fiction continue to captivate audiences today? Panelists explore timeless classics and why these stories still resonate with modern readers and viewers.
Moderator: Mark Alfred
Panelists: Raymond Markley, Laura J. Underwood, Mark Alfred, Paul Carlson
11:00 AM | Location: Boomer A
Hills You Will Die On: Unpopular Pop Culture Opinions
Everyone's got that one pop-culture opinion they'll defend to the death. Whether it's "Han shot first," or "The prequels are better than you think," join our panelists as they share their most controversial takes -- and the hills they'll die on. It's a lively, no-holds-barred discussion where fandoms clash, and no opinion is too bold.
Moderator: ChiiVanna
Panelists: Trina Jacobs, Dr Paisley, Mark Alfred, ChiiVanna, Birdie
1:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
From Tin Men to Terminators: Robots in Pop Culture
From loyal companions to existential threats, robots have fascinated us for decades. Explore their evolution in movies, TV, anime, and beyond, and how they reflect our hopes -- and fears -- for the future.
Moderator: David Rike
Panelists: David Rike, Magician Michael Corley, Peri Charlifu, Mark Alfred