# The Past, Present and Future of Fandom
Pop culture and the ways we engage with it have changed a lot over the years and it's evolving even more rapidly in the age of social media, influencers, review sites, BookTok, Instagram and AI. Discuss the past, present and future of fandom in this 40-minute conversation between a moderator and four panelists, followed by 20 minutes of audience Q&A.
Discuss the Evolution of Fandom
Join this timely discussion with our guest panelists on Saturday, March 22 from 12 to 1 p.m. on the third floor of the Main Library. This will be a 40-minute conversation between moderator Tony Allegretti and four panelists. Note: This "Forward Thinking" panel discussion is part of Jax Pop Con Vol. 2, an all-ages pop culture and fandom event held annually at the Main Library.
Antonio (Tony) Allegretti is a partner and Chief Community Officer of Sporting JAX, bringing professional soccer to North Florida. He is recognized for his work establishing downtown Art Walk and as the founding director of the Riverside Arts Market. Tony has served on the boards of: Visit Jacksonville, Downtown Vision, Any Given Child, United States Urban Arts Federation, Jax Chamber Board of Governors and Jax Area Legal Aid. He was also appointed as a founding board member of the Downtown Investment Authority.
# Panelists
Kati Johnston is a former educator whose enthusiasm for reading began in high school when she found books like The Perks of being a Wallflower. Her love of books grew beyond the depths of fiction and into learning through nonfiction. She is an alumna of the University of Texas San Antonio with a BA in Education and Psychology. She is the co-founder of Rebel Readers whose mission is to stock Free Little Libraries throughout the Jacksonville with books that have been removed and to create even more free libraries where they can. Her favorite genres are historical fiction, thrillers, mystery and anything witchy.
Badr Milligan is a podcaster, professional moderator, and community leader with a passion for storytelling and connection. He is the host and producer of the award-winning podcast, The Short Box: A Comic Book Talk Show. For over 12 years, he has interviewed some of the world's best writers and artists. In 2018, he co-founded the Jax Podcaster’s United Group: a 500+ member collective dedicated to growing Northeast Florida's podcast scene. An Air Force veteran, Badr now runs his own business The Short Box Entertainment Company, creating podcasts and live shows for conferences around the country.
Casey Truglio is a former educator. Her love of books began in childhood when she buddy read the Harry Potter series with her Aunt Jeanne. However, it was reading nonfiction texts in her social inequality course in college which led her to understand how issues are connected. She has BBA from Georgia Gwinett College with a concentration in economics. She is the co-founder of Rebel Readers, along with panelist Kati Johnston. Her favorite genres are historical fiction or nonfiction.
Ryan Paul Thompson is a gaming aficionado and the president and founder of GAAM Good. He's been promoting gaming culture, the arts, and the “Do Good” philosophy since 2012. Given the opportunity to collaborate with industry giants like Nintendo, Sony Santa Monica, Capcom, Microsoft, and Naughty Dog, Ryan has orchestrated a variety of events including the GAAM Show, Gladiators (esports), Retro GAAM Nights, art and cosplay exhibits, Holiday Nerd Market, Jax Creators, Drink + Draw Jax, and more.
# Get Geeky With Us at Jax Pop Con Vol. 2
Dust off those capes, grab your favorite set of dice, and get ready to start your next adventure at the Main Library. Back for it's second year, Jax Pop Con is a celebration of all the books, comics, games, TV shows, and movies you love... all in the heart of downtown Jacksonville! Make memories, make friends and show off your best cosplay or fandom-inspired art this Spring Break! This is a FREE event, open to the public.
Saturday, March 22, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Main Library
Be the first to know about upcoming programs and events!
