Tim Frayser
Writer, cartoonist, photographer, teacher, home brewer, minister, podcaster and martial artist, Tim Frayser has been telling stories his whole life. A retired municipal employee, he is a former chairman of the Conestoga science-fiction convention and a past president of the Oklahoma Science Fiction Writers. Since 2009, he has volunteered as a ranger at the annual Burning Man event in Nevada. His martial-arts training includes experience with Filipino and Indonesian arts as well as medieval Italian longsword. Tim has published short stories in assorted anthologies. His most recent novel, The Spook, was published in 2023. Active in science-fiction fandom since 1979, he was Fan Guest of Honor at the first Tulkon convention in Tulsa. He also plays the ukulele. Tim currently lives in Oklahoma and drives the train at the Tulsa Zoo.
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10:00 AM | Location: Boomer A
The History of Fan Media: From Zines to Streaming
Fan-created media has a rich history, stretching back to the early 1900s, when fans first started producing zines and fan fiction. This panel explores how fan media has evolved over the decades -- from grassroots fanzines to the rise of fan films, webcomics, and today's streaming platforms. We'll discuss the impact fan creators have had on mainstream media, how digital platforms have changed the game, and how fandoms continue to shape pop culture. Join us for a deep dive into the origins and growth of fan media, and discover how these passionate creators continue to influence the media we consume today!
Moderator: Aaron Bossig
Panelists: Mike Kennedy, Aaron Bossig, Dr Paisley, Tim Frayser
12:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
Aliens Among Us: How Sci-Fi Reflects Our Relationship with "The Other"
Aliens in science fiction often symbolize the unknown or "the other." This panel delves into how depictions of extraterrestrial life mirror real-world attitudes toward cultural differences, migration, and coexistence. What do our aliens say about us, and how can they challenge our perspectives?
Moderator: Cap’n Ed
Panelists: Gypsy Jess, Tim Frayser, Cap’n Ed, David Carrico, A. Lee Martinez
2:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Drawing the Future: Sci-Fi and Fantasy in Graphic Novels
Graphic novels are a fantastic medium for exploring speculative worlds. Join creators and fans to discuss how comics tackle sci-fi and fantasy themes and how visuals enhance these stories.
Moderator: Mike Kennedy
Panelists: Mike Kennedy, Jeff Provine, Tim Frayser, Matthew Price
3:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
Rejected, Revived, Respected: The Life Cycle of Scientific Theories
Not all discredited science stays in the dustbin of history. Some theories are revived with new evidence, while others refuse to die despite being debunked. Join us for a discussion on the messy, evolving nature of scientific progress.
Moderator: Mel. White
Panelists: Tim Frayser, Pigeon, Mel. White, Trina Jacobs, Major Bill Leaf
8:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: JQH Boardroom presented by Morningstar Storage
Join the Circle: A Beginner's Guide to Filk Music
Curious about how music and fandom connect? In this panel, we'll discuss filk music, its history, and its role in fan gatherings. You'll learn how a filk circle works, hear some examples, and -- time permitting -- get the chance to create your own filk!
Moderator: Melinda LaFevers
Panelists: Tim Frayser, Libby A. Smith, Melinda LaFevers
1:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Autographs
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to get this guest's autograph.
Profile: Tim Frayser
3:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
Authoritarianism vs. Democracy: Which Truly Defines the World?
With most of the world living under authoritarian regimes, is democracy really the global standard? This panel explores political history, cultural perspectives, and ethical considerations surrounding governance in the modern world.
Moderator: Dr Paisley
Panelists: Joshua Trope, Dr Paisley, Tim Frayser, Aislinn Burrows, Shai Fenwick