Matthew Alfred grew up in OKC fandom beginning with STAR OKC in the late 20th century and has volunteered with Soonercon since 2007. He’s proud to be a former con chair, programming director, and art show director. He is a second-generation con planner—his father Mark Alfred helped relaunch Soonercon in 2006. He lives in the Oklahoma City metro and works as an office and IT manager for a small business that manages retail stores. He enjoys playing RPGs, reading comics, assembling puzzles, building Legos, and traveling. His partner Britt Alfred is also on the con committee and is an accomplished seamstress and writer.
1933 saw the introduction of the "movie monster" that went beyond Dracula, Frankenstein and the Mummy. King Kong led to large monsters that led to dinosaurs and radiation-based creatures like Godzilla and giant insects. Monsters movies continue to this day with both Kong and Godzilla still leading the way.
Transform thrift-store finds into maritime masterpieces in this hands-on art panel. Artists will take reclaimed paintings and prints and add nautical touches such as sea serpents, ghost ships, krakens, merfolk, and stormy skies. All supplies are provided, and the finished pieces will be donated to the charity raffle. Join us for a creative way to mix art, oceanic imagination, and a good cause.
Many fans grow up surrounded by science fiction, fantasy, and gaming, and eventually share those passions with their children. What does it look like to raise kids in a fandom-centered home? This panel explores how families introduce new generations to conventions, stories, and creative hobbies. How does fandom evolve when it becomes a shared family tradition?