“Space – The Final Frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise – it’s five year mission to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man (one) has gone before…” *
Gene Roddenberry, Creator
1966
* “The infinitive-splitting opening narration for each episode of Star Trek: The Original Series was famously recited by William Shatner, but the origins of the line are uncertain. Some reports suggest that it was inspired by a 1958 White House booklet promoting the space program – others speculate it came from explorer James Cook following an expedition to Newfoundland. Writer Samuel Peeples is often credited with the decision to make the phrase a significant part of the series. The line was eventually repeated in all the series and films.”
Origins of Famous Star Trek Lines, 2021
A life-long devotee – dare we say “Trekker” – Paul has found Star Trek‘s positive and inclusive vision for the future an inspiration since an early age.
This was a place to “beam up” into some future world of equality, bravery, and adventure without bullying or schoolyard fights – a place where everyone was accepted for who they were. It was a “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood” in space (with phasers and photon torpedoes, of course).
Star Trek went on to be a global cultural phenomenon. Not only does it continue to be the most lucrative franchise in entertainment history, it has inspired astronauts and scientists, civil rights leaders and presidents, teachers and ordinary people alike with a simple message of hope: “Peace. Live Long and Prosper”.
STC Star Vic Magnolia demonstrates the working detail of the Bridge.
TOS pilot’s anonymous sponsor: Lucille Ball – on the door to Stage Nine – (“The Enterprise”).
Paul and guest star Nicola Bryant – “To Boldly Go, Part II” – 2016.
Original Artifacts from TOS on display in Ticonderoga, New York – 2018
A particular fan of “The Original Series” – (or TOS) – Paul has followed numerous aspects of the show, attending countless conventions, and meeting many of its stars.
A keen observer of the cultural interpretation of Star Trek – its archive of artifacts and the series’ unique role in our culture – Paul was a major contributor to the concluding episodes of “Star Trek Continues” – (or STC). A web-based, non-profit, STC successfully “completed” the Enterprise’s five year mission to critical acclaim. Paul had the privilege of being a VIP guest on the set in Kingsland, Georgia, for the filming of its final episode.
USS Enterprise – restored TOS “Hero Model” – details
STC – VIP Set Pass – “To Boldly Go, Part II”
“Beaming Up” with his cousin, Douglas
The restoration of the Starship Enterprise model by The Smithsonian Institute can be watched: HERE.
Star Trek Continues on-line episodes can be viewed: HERE.
A tour of the Paramount authorized USS Enterprise TOS sets in Ticonderoga, New York, and information about special promotional events can be found: HERE.
U.S. Air and Space Museum – Smithsonian Institute
New Entrance – The National Mall – 2017
Washington, DC
“Risk: Risk is our business. That’s what this starship is all about. That’s why we’re aboard her.
You may dissent without prejudice.”
Return to Tomorrow – The Original Series, 1968
“Tap Tap Tap…” – my grandfather was at the window of his house as I passed by on my way from school. When I was 8, he was a “secret spy” for my parents – to report my solo walk home was going safely.
Little did they know those taps were also an invitation to come in for dinner and watch the most amazing program – EVER. “Star Trek” was my very, very favorite show – EVER. It was on my grandparent’s COLOR television (the first in the family – EVER).
It was also with Pepé – the most loving grandfather – EVER.