There's a town in Canada called Vulcan and it's as 'Star Trek' as you hope
Daily Hive Staff
Oct 19, 2017 10:51 am
dailyhive.com/vancouver/vulcan-alberta-star-trek
Daily Hive Staff
Oct 19, 2017 10:51 am
dailyhive.com/vancouver/vulcan-alberta-star-trek
Solar park kiosk unveiled during Vul-Con
Jasmine O'Halloran
Wednesday, August 2, 2017 1:19:32 MDT PM
Amy Tucker
Monday, July 24, 2017 1:57:46 MDT PM
Hundreds of Star Trek fans poured into the Town of Vulcan this past weekend, some of them coming from across Canada or across oceans.While this bumped up tourism and business, it also left many of the visitors with warm impressions. Victoria Dionne, flew in from Virginia Beach to meet her friend Ambur Hrooshkin of Saskatoon. The two road-tripped the rest of the way together. They both agreed they could summarize Vulcan into one word: Welcoming.
“I wasn’t expecting the reception that we had,” Hrooshkin said, who originally met Dionne on the online site, Tumblr, and eventually met in person a year ago for a trip to Harry Potter World. Hrooshkin added that Vul-Con is a much friendlier convention than previous conventions she has been too.
“I like how intimate it is. It’s small, you get a real chance to talk to people both in the community and people who have come from where ever so that’s nice.” Dionne said she appreciates what the convention does for the town.
“I feel like everything I buy here goes back to (the town) so that feels good,” she said.
Driving all the way from London, Ont. were Beverly Hamilton and Robert Anderson. The couple had been to Vulcan once before back in Nov. 2014. They said that though the Trek Station and the costume shop were closed, they were given a tour anyway.
“It was so touching that they did that,” Hamilton said. “We said, ‘next time we’re able to and our vacation lines up with the conference we’ll come’ and here we are.” Hamilton added, “it’s the kind of place where you want to check out each store. You want to go to each little cafe”. Also visiting for the second time together were Christina and Brian Taylor of Red Deer who said the convention has become a tradition after discovering it falls on their wedding anniversary. Among the visitors who signed in the guest book at the Trek Station some were from England, Australia and Romania. Shannon Clarke, tourism administrator for the Town of Vulcan, said that the convention is significant to the local economy. “People are eating here, using our accommodations and buying gas,” she said. “I think it helps a lot.”
The convention saw hundreds of visitors and Clarke said the dinner and dance tickets sold out before the weekend began.
Monday, July 24, 2017 1:57:46 MDT PM
Hundreds of Star Trek fans poured into the Town of Vulcan this past weekend, some of them coming from across Canada or across oceans.While this bumped up tourism and business, it also left many of the visitors with warm impressions. Victoria Dionne, flew in from Virginia Beach to meet her friend Ambur Hrooshkin of Saskatoon. The two road-tripped the rest of the way together. They both agreed they could summarize Vulcan into one word: Welcoming.
“I wasn’t expecting the reception that we had,” Hrooshkin said, who originally met Dionne on the online site, Tumblr, and eventually met in person a year ago for a trip to Harry Potter World. Hrooshkin added that Vul-Con is a much friendlier convention than previous conventions she has been too.
“I like how intimate it is. It’s small, you get a real chance to talk to people both in the community and people who have come from where ever so that’s nice.” Dionne said she appreciates what the convention does for the town.
“I feel like everything I buy here goes back to (the town) so that feels good,” she said.
Driving all the way from London, Ont. were Beverly Hamilton and Robert Anderson. The couple had been to Vulcan once before back in Nov. 2014. They said that though the Trek Station and the costume shop were closed, they were given a tour anyway.
“It was so touching that they did that,” Hamilton said. “We said, ‘next time we’re able to and our vacation lines up with the conference we’ll come’ and here we are.” Hamilton added, “it’s the kind of place where you want to check out each store. You want to go to each little cafe”. Also visiting for the second time together were Christina and Brian Taylor of Red Deer who said the convention has become a tradition after discovering it falls on their wedding anniversary. Among the visitors who signed in the guest book at the Trek Station some were from England, Australia and Romania. Shannon Clarke, tourism administrator for the Town of Vulcan, said that the convention is significant to the local economy. “People are eating here, using our accommodations and buying gas,” she said. “I think it helps a lot.”
The convention saw hundreds of visitors and Clarke said the dinner and dance tickets sold out before the weekend began.
Thank you to the Vulcan District Museum for this fantastic video currently playing in the Vulcan Tourism and trek centre. The video provides you with the history on multicultural meals shared by local families. please visit their website for more information on our local Museum. www.vdhs.vulcancountyhistory.com/
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ON A MISSION TO FIND HUMOUR IN THE FUNNIEST OF PLACES
Comedian Jonny Harris explores small towns on the ropes, performs stand-up shows for the locals who’ve stuck it out, and proves that Canadians know how to laugh at themselves. Vulcan is proudly featured on Season 3 of Still Standing.www.cbc.ca/player/play/963928131558/ |
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New beautiful art work up at the Trek Centre. Thank you to Rick Howard for this fantastic donation to our centre. The picture doesn't do it justice, come in and take a look ;)
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Via TheWorldWanderersPodCast
1. The Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station // 115 Centre St E, Vulcan, AB If you're looking to get your nerdy boyfriend out of the house, tell him about this place. Designed to look just like a landing space craft, the Trek Station is full of Star Trek attractions and memorabilia.
www.narcity.com/ca/ab/calgary/travel/16-day-trips-around-alberta-to-take-with-your-bf-this-summer
1. The Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station // 115 Centre St E, Vulcan, AB If you're looking to get your nerdy boyfriend out of the house, tell him about this place. Designed to look just like a landing space craft, the Trek Station is full of Star Trek attractions and memorabilia.
www.narcity.com/ca/ab/calgary/travel/16-day-trips-around-alberta-to-take-with-your-bf-this-summer
Image by Kristy Lannan
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I was 23 years old when Charles E Netto moved to Calgary and we launched into an adventure called Swallow-a-Bicycle Theatre.
Ten years later, we've had the incredible fortune of working with hundreds of artists in nooks and crannies all across Calgary, learning about robots and freak shows and financial literacy and niqabs and haircuts and land use bylaws and coffee shops and masks and the town of Vulcan. We grew up at the High Performance Rodeo and now work with young artists at the Ignite Festival of Emerging Artists. We used to fly by the seat of our pants, pulling floats from my personal bank account, calling up our friends to do last-minute cabarets. Now we're a charity with a dedicated and passionate staff and board, and we stopped being the new kids on the scene a long time ago.We've been doing media rounds for the past week, and it's been wild to dig up old memories. By: Mark Hopkins |
The USS Vulcan parade float is undergoing upgrades, and the float’s committee is seeking ideas.
“We can only come up with so any ideas,” said Vulcan Town Coun. Rick Howard, who’s on the committee, along with Keath Brooks.
Howard said he and Brooks have had a hard time getting people’s input on how to make the float better.
Upgrades to the float need to be done before June 10.A new chassis has already been purchased for the float.“The old one has just about had it,” said Howard. “It does not have power steering, and when you tow it you have to crawl underneath it and disconnect the drive shaft.“The new one now has the transfer case where you stick everything in neutral and away you go, no more crawling underneath, it has power steering. The driver location has been moved to right behind the front tire.”They want to reduce the length of the float, and the seating arrangement might be changed. The float also needs new tires — low profile tires are needed.A local welder has welded the deck supports and the dish mount. Now Howard and Brooks said they will start putting the plywood decking on it.Upgrades are expected to cost $10,000, money partly provided by the Town, which owns the float, and the rest from donations and grants the committee applies for.The USS Vulcan has won numerous awards in the past few years.Last August, the Town of Vulcan won the grand aggregate award in Lethbridge’s Whoop-Up Days, and placed second in the most entertaining entry category. Last July, the Town of Vulcan won Best Miscellaneous Costume at the Calgary Stampede Parade. And in 2014, the float won top honours — Best Overall Parade Entry and Best Municipal Entry — at the Calgary Stampede Parade.
For those wanting to share their ideas, Howard can be reached at 403-485-1298 and Brooks at 403-601-1652.
Jasmine O'Halloran
Monday, April 10, 2017 2:11:49 MDT PM
“We can only come up with so any ideas,” said Vulcan Town Coun. Rick Howard, who’s on the committee, along with Keath Brooks.
Howard said he and Brooks have had a hard time getting people’s input on how to make the float better.
Upgrades to the float need to be done before June 10.A new chassis has already been purchased for the float.“The old one has just about had it,” said Howard. “It does not have power steering, and when you tow it you have to crawl underneath it and disconnect the drive shaft.“The new one now has the transfer case where you stick everything in neutral and away you go, no more crawling underneath, it has power steering. The driver location has been moved to right behind the front tire.”They want to reduce the length of the float, and the seating arrangement might be changed. The float also needs new tires — low profile tires are needed.A local welder has welded the deck supports and the dish mount. Now Howard and Brooks said they will start putting the plywood decking on it.Upgrades are expected to cost $10,000, money partly provided by the Town, which owns the float, and the rest from donations and grants the committee applies for.The USS Vulcan has won numerous awards in the past few years.Last August, the Town of Vulcan won the grand aggregate award in Lethbridge’s Whoop-Up Days, and placed second in the most entertaining entry category. Last July, the Town of Vulcan won Best Miscellaneous Costume at the Calgary Stampede Parade. And in 2014, the float won top honours — Best Overall Parade Entry and Best Municipal Entry — at the Calgary Stampede Parade.
For those wanting to share their ideas, Howard can be reached at 403-485-1298 and Brooks at 403-601-1652.
Jasmine O'Halloran
Monday, April 10, 2017 2:11:49 MDT PM
Sun Country comes for a visit for a Chris Stapleton promotion. #GetYourBeardOn
By Allie Miller July 9, 2016
Klingons, Vulcans, and members of the Starship Enterprise converged on Vulcan, Alta. Saturday to celebrate their love for Star Trek.
It has been fifty years since Star Trek first appeared on television, and fans continue to commemorate the franchise.
Vul-Con initially started as a small group of individuals travelling to the rural town that shares the same name as Spock’s home planet.
In recent years, it has grown to a “must-do” on a Trekkies bucket list.
Adam Nimoy, the son of the late Leonard Nimoy, unveiled a commemorative plaque in Vulcan to kick off the two day convention Saturday.
This is Adam Nimoy’s first time attending Vul-Con. His dad, better known to many fans as Mr. Spock, made an appearance six years ago.
“Out here in the middle of this beautiful country farm land we have this little centre of the universe for the Star Trek community,” Nimoy said.
Fans of the series say Star Trek went boldly where no other TV show had ventured before, it celebrate diversity, equality and inclusiveness.
“My favourite thing about Star Trek is the saying ‘Infinite diversity in infinite combinations’,” Stacy Lloyd, a super fan, said. “It means, black, white, purple, red, we can all get along.”
Many of the Trekkies identify with Spock, and have been encouraged by his journey.
“Spock really inspires us to keep looking, and teaches us that it’s ok to be an outsider,” Nimoy said. “You can still be accepted in the community.”
Fans embrace Star Trek’s overarching message that working together creates a better universe.
“The show was wonderful,” Susan Tyndall said. “It was like the best expression of what humanity can be.”
For fans, Star Trek is much more than just a television show, or movie franchise, it has allowed them to create their own extended family.
“We all adjoin in our love for star trek,” Tyndall said.
“It’s the friendship, it’s the family,” David Campbell said. “Here you feel like you’re accepted.”
Vul-con is a unique intergalactic event thriving in a small rural community, and judging by the numbers of attendees – it will live long and prosper.
Klingons, Vulcans, and members of the Starship Enterprise converged on Vulcan, Alta. Saturday to celebrate their love for Star Trek.
It has been fifty years since Star Trek first appeared on television, and fans continue to commemorate the franchise.
Vul-Con initially started as a small group of individuals travelling to the rural town that shares the same name as Spock’s home planet.
In recent years, it has grown to a “must-do” on a Trekkies bucket list.
Adam Nimoy, the son of the late Leonard Nimoy, unveiled a commemorative plaque in Vulcan to kick off the two day convention Saturday.
This is Adam Nimoy’s first time attending Vul-Con. His dad, better known to many fans as Mr. Spock, made an appearance six years ago.
“Out here in the middle of this beautiful country farm land we have this little centre of the universe for the Star Trek community,” Nimoy said.
Fans of the series say Star Trek went boldly where no other TV show had ventured before, it celebrate diversity, equality and inclusiveness.
“My favourite thing about Star Trek is the saying ‘Infinite diversity in infinite combinations’,” Stacy Lloyd, a super fan, said. “It means, black, white, purple, red, we can all get along.”
Many of the Trekkies identify with Spock, and have been encouraged by his journey.
“Spock really inspires us to keep looking, and teaches us that it’s ok to be an outsider,” Nimoy said. “You can still be accepted in the community.”
Fans embrace Star Trek’s overarching message that working together creates a better universe.
“The show was wonderful,” Susan Tyndall said. “It was like the best expression of what humanity can be.”
For fans, Star Trek is much more than just a television show, or movie franchise, it has allowed them to create their own extended family.
“We all adjoin in our love for star trek,” Tyndall said.
“It’s the friendship, it’s the family,” David Campbell said. “Here you feel like you’re accepted.”
Vul-con is a unique intergalactic event thriving in a small rural community, and judging by the numbers of attendees – it will live long and prosper.
Star Trek superfan Mike Schmidt dressed as the character, Garak. (Mike Schmidt)
This will be Schmidt's 11th year at Vul-Con with his youngest daughter.
"The first time I went 11 years ago I took both my daughters and the older one said that's enough for her, she's only been once since then, but my younger one loved it and that's been a dad-daughter tradition ever since," he said.
"From the first time we went it's been an annual thing we know is on our calendar from now until the day we die."
There are larger Star Trek conventions, but Vulcan's is the best, said Schmidt.
"The one in Vulcan is more like a family reunion," he said.
"Vulcan just has that small town feel to it and you're just as much looking forward to seeing the fans every year for a family reunion as you are looking forward to seeing the celebrities
This will be Schmidt's 11th year at Vul-Con with his youngest daughter.
"The first time I went 11 years ago I took both my daughters and the older one said that's enough for her, she's only been once since then, but my younger one loved it and that's been a dad-daughter tradition ever since," he said.
"From the first time we went it's been an annual thing we know is on our calendar from now until the day we die."
There are larger Star Trek conventions, but Vulcan's is the best, said Schmidt.
"The one in Vulcan is more like a family reunion," he said.
"Vulcan just has that small town feel to it and you're just as much looking forward to seeing the fans every year for a family reunion as you are looking forward to seeing the celebrities
Vulcan Solar Park
There have been many advancements with the Vulcan Solar Park project. If you would like more information on the progress please check out http://vulcansolarpark.com/ for details.
It seems fitting that Vulcan, Alberta is home to the first solar park in Canada. After all this small town of fewer than 2,000 people loves making science reality out of science fiction. They built a replica star ship enterprise, and a space station-styled visitor centre while declaring themselves full-on Trekkies.
Star Trek capital of CanadaWith it’s starship visitors centre, and it’s 5-ton replica star ship, Vulcan Alberta is selfie heaven! Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
Vulcan is the Star Trek capital of Canada, so it’s not surprising we got a “live long and prosper” from Mayor Tom Grant soon after we arrived. Spock himself, Leonard Nimoy, visited Vulcan in 2010 to pay homage to the town and its fascination with all things Trek.
Let’s face it, if not for the Star Trek theme, Vulcan, Alberta would probably be known more for its A&W and gas station along Highway 23 than anything else.
But it’s much more than that. There is a spirit and pride of place here. The town has embraced the seeming contradiction between their rich, agricultural history and space-age theme.
More than just energyFor many, the term solar park conjures images of PV modules looking up from a utilitarian field. But this park is first and foremost a place to relax and play.
The design of the solar art mimics the nine-in-a-line grain elevators that once made Vulcan one of the largest grain shipping centres in Western Canada. Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
“We were looking at developing a showcase for renewable energy, but we wanted to incorporate that into the community,” says Kyle Green, Vulcan’s project manager for the solar park.
Formerly a fenced-off brownfield, the site used to house an old bulk fuel sales business. Today, the site is home to green grass, an artistic assortment of solar installations, and a row of solar structures, which were designed resemble grain elevators.
This solar installation concept of nine-in-a-line grain elevators came from local students. It pays homage to Vulcan’s history as a major grain shipping centre with nine grain elevators in a row along the CPR railway line.
“The solar panels on them produce electricity that goes back into the grid and kind of gives you an idea of what the nine-in-a-linewould look like,” says Tom Grant, mayor of Vulcan.
The solar system is only 23 kilowatts, enough to power two to three homes. However, energy production was not the primary goal for Vulcan’s solar park. Rather, the town wanted to create a green space out of a brownfield, educate people about solar energy and create a pleasant park space for residents and visitors alike.
“The solar park is right downtown in Vulcan. And another side to that is the aesthetics,” says Kyle Green.
Not Vulcan’s first green projectMatt Orr, a local entrepreneur designed and built the town’s solar tree. Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
Before the solar park Matt Orr, son of a local businessman raised money to design and build a solar tree. It now sits close to the Starship Enterprise replica along the highway, a harbinger of the solar era that is dawning.
Vulcan’s solar park was a unique way to build a park on a brownfield, showcase solar energy production and play off the town’s Star Trek theme, but Vulcan Country could also soon be home to a couple of very large solar projects.
Alberta’s solar industry going warp 9EDF Energies has proposed to build a 77 megawatt solar project that would occupy six sections of land at the south end of Vulcan County. EDF is in a partner with Enbridge in the 300 megawatt Blackspring Ridge Wind Farm already built in the same area.
The late, great, Leonard Nimoy visited Vulcan in 2010 to pay homage to the Star Trek Capital of Canada. Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
Enbridge has plans to construct Alberta Solar One, a 10 megawatt solar project. This will feature Morgan Solar’s Sun Simba solar concentrating modules, which use a dual-axis sun-tracking system.
Altogether, 372 megawatts of solar are in the planning stages for Alberta. This will increase the Alberta’s solar capacity 37 fold. Of course some of this solar prospecting is in part dependent on the shape of Alberta’s upcoming solar support programs. The province plans to replace coal-fired electricity by with at least 30 per cent renewable energy before 2030.
And this kind of stunning growth is even more dramatic globally. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has just received a bid to develop 800 megawatts of solar for US 2.99 cents per kilowatt hour. It’s part of a plan to develop 5,000 megawatts of solar in the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.
Live long and prosperBack in Vulcan we’re in the visitor centre, which welcomes 12,000 – 17,000 visitors each year. Karen Haller with Vulcan tourism shows off a memorial display for Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry. Rod Roddenberry, Gene’s son came to Vulcan dedicate the memorial to him.
Be sure to visit the starship visitor centre and museum in Vulcan, Alberta. Consider going during VulCon, their annual Star Trek convention which runs July 21st and 22nd in 2017. Be sure to pick your own set of Vulcan ears at the visitor center!
By David Dodge & Dylan Thompson
There have been many advancements with the Vulcan Solar Park project. If you would like more information on the progress please check out http://vulcansolarpark.com/ for details.
It seems fitting that Vulcan, Alberta is home to the first solar park in Canada. After all this small town of fewer than 2,000 people loves making science reality out of science fiction. They built a replica star ship enterprise, and a space station-styled visitor centre while declaring themselves full-on Trekkies.
Star Trek capital of CanadaWith it’s starship visitors centre, and it’s 5-ton replica star ship, Vulcan Alberta is selfie heaven! Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
Vulcan is the Star Trek capital of Canada, so it’s not surprising we got a “live long and prosper” from Mayor Tom Grant soon after we arrived. Spock himself, Leonard Nimoy, visited Vulcan in 2010 to pay homage to the town and its fascination with all things Trek.
Let’s face it, if not for the Star Trek theme, Vulcan, Alberta would probably be known more for its A&W and gas station along Highway 23 than anything else.
But it’s much more than that. There is a spirit and pride of place here. The town has embraced the seeming contradiction between their rich, agricultural history and space-age theme.
More than just energyFor many, the term solar park conjures images of PV modules looking up from a utilitarian field. But this park is first and foremost a place to relax and play.
The design of the solar art mimics the nine-in-a-line grain elevators that once made Vulcan one of the largest grain shipping centres in Western Canada. Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
“We were looking at developing a showcase for renewable energy, but we wanted to incorporate that into the community,” says Kyle Green, Vulcan’s project manager for the solar park.
Formerly a fenced-off brownfield, the site used to house an old bulk fuel sales business. Today, the site is home to green grass, an artistic assortment of solar installations, and a row of solar structures, which were designed resemble grain elevators.
This solar installation concept of nine-in-a-line grain elevators came from local students. It pays homage to Vulcan’s history as a major grain shipping centre with nine grain elevators in a row along the CPR railway line.
“The solar panels on them produce electricity that goes back into the grid and kind of gives you an idea of what the nine-in-a-linewould look like,” says Tom Grant, mayor of Vulcan.
The solar system is only 23 kilowatts, enough to power two to three homes. However, energy production was not the primary goal for Vulcan’s solar park. Rather, the town wanted to create a green space out of a brownfield, educate people about solar energy and create a pleasant park space for residents and visitors alike.
“The solar park is right downtown in Vulcan. And another side to that is the aesthetics,” says Kyle Green.
Not Vulcan’s first green projectMatt Orr, a local entrepreneur designed and built the town’s solar tree. Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
Before the solar park Matt Orr, son of a local businessman raised money to design and build a solar tree. It now sits close to the Starship Enterprise replica along the highway, a harbinger of the solar era that is dawning.
Vulcan’s solar park was a unique way to build a park on a brownfield, showcase solar energy production and play off the town’s Star Trek theme, but Vulcan Country could also soon be home to a couple of very large solar projects.
Alberta’s solar industry going warp 9EDF Energies has proposed to build a 77 megawatt solar project that would occupy six sections of land at the south end of Vulcan County. EDF is in a partner with Enbridge in the 300 megawatt Blackspring Ridge Wind Farm already built in the same area.
The late, great, Leonard Nimoy visited Vulcan in 2010 to pay homage to the Star Trek Capital of Canada. Photo David Dodge, GreenEnergyFutures.ca
Enbridge has plans to construct Alberta Solar One, a 10 megawatt solar project. This will feature Morgan Solar’s Sun Simba solar concentrating modules, which use a dual-axis sun-tracking system.
Altogether, 372 megawatts of solar are in the planning stages for Alberta. This will increase the Alberta’s solar capacity 37 fold. Of course some of this solar prospecting is in part dependent on the shape of Alberta’s upcoming solar support programs. The province plans to replace coal-fired electricity by with at least 30 per cent renewable energy before 2030.
And this kind of stunning growth is even more dramatic globally. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority has just received a bid to develop 800 megawatts of solar for US 2.99 cents per kilowatt hour. It’s part of a plan to develop 5,000 megawatts of solar in the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.
Live long and prosperBack in Vulcan we’re in the visitor centre, which welcomes 12,000 – 17,000 visitors each year. Karen Haller with Vulcan tourism shows off a memorial display for Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry. Rod Roddenberry, Gene’s son came to Vulcan dedicate the memorial to him.
Be sure to visit the starship visitor centre and museum in Vulcan, Alberta. Consider going during VulCon, their annual Star Trek convention which runs July 21st and 22nd in 2017. Be sure to pick your own set of Vulcan ears at the visitor center!
By David Dodge & Dylan Thompson
Vulcan could very well become a destination for couples who are looking for a Star Trek-themed wedding. Ralph and Liz (born Lowe) Busch, who exchanged vows at the Trekcetera Museum on Saturday, said it was the “most logical place to get married” and encourage other fans to consider tying the knot in Vulcan. The newlyweds were later presented at the Vulcan Legion with a certificate by Town Coun. Sue Dow. Simon Ducatel Vulcan Advocate
A couple from Victoria who love Star Trek agreed Vulcan would be the “most logical place to have a wedding.”
Newlyweds Ralph and Liz (born Lowe) Busch spoke with media at the Trekcetera Museum on Saturday, Jan. 17 following a private ceremony. The day was chosen specifically because of the Starship Enterprise’s designation number, 1701.
Ralph said it was originally his mother’s suggestion to get married in Vulcan.
Although she’s not a Trek fan, “she knows that I’ve been a Star Trek fan all my life,” he said. “When she heard that we were going to get married, she said, ‘Oh, you’ve got to get married in Vulcan!’” Ralph thought that was a good idea, and Liz agreed.
“So we decided Vulcan would be the most logical place to have a wedding,” said Ralph.
He wore a white uniform based on a design from the set of Star Trek Nemesis.
“The whole crew was wearing this to celebrate the wedding of Deanna Troy and (William) Riker,” Trek characters played by Marina Sirtis and Jonathan Frakes respectively, said Ralph.
Liz, who also wore white, considered basing the design of her dress on the one worn by Sirtis.
“To be honest, it was a pink awful thing, so I went more traditional for the wedding dress,” she said.
At one point during the private ceremony, the Star Wars fanfare could be heard playing behind closed doors. When asked why the Trek-themed wedding featured a song from Star Wars, the couple said it was a friendly joke for their family, who aren’t as familiar with the differences between the two universes and have occasionally combined Star Trek’s famous Vulcan salute with Star Wars’ famous expression, “May the Force be with you.”
The couple met at a science fiction and fantasy convention in Vancouver.
While they share a passion for Star Trek, it wasn’t the only common interest that drew them together, said Liz.
But it certainly played a major role in their decision to get married in the Star Trek capital of Canada.
“I couldn’t think of a better place to do it,” said Ralph. “I love the venue, this is a great place.”
Both agreed that other couples who are fans of Star Trek should think about exchanging their vows in Vulcan.
“We did something that we wanted to do that was important to us,” said Ralph on their decision to wed in Vulcan.
He first heard about this little Prairie town more than 20 years ago, when the Trek theme was still in its infancy. But he had come to visit on a Sunday, when everything was closed. It would be many more years before Ralph got a chance to visit Vulcan more in depth.
Ralph and Liz visited Vulcan this past Labour Day long weekend, and the couple got a chance to check out the sites. Chances are it’s just a matter of time before they beam back to town.
“I don’t see any reason why we wouldn’t come here and visit,” said Ralph. “Especially on a celebration like Spock Days, that would be awesome.”
A couple from Victoria who love Star Trek agreed Vulcan would be the “most logical place to have a wedding.”
Newlyweds Ralph and Liz (born Lowe) Busch spoke with media at the Trekcetera Museum on Saturday, Jan. 17 following a private ceremony. The day was chosen specifically because of the Starship Enterprise’s designation number, 1701.
Ralph said it was originally his mother’s suggestion to get married in Vulcan.
Although she’s not a Trek fan, “she knows that I’ve been a Star Trek fan all my life,” he said. “When she heard that we were going to get married, she said, ‘Oh, you’ve got to get married in Vulcan!’” Ralph thought that was a good idea, and Liz agreed.
“So we decided Vulcan would be the most logical place to have a wedding,” said Ralph.
He wore a white uniform based on a design from the set of Star Trek Nemesis.
“The whole crew was wearing this to celebrate the wedding of Deanna Troy and (William) Riker,” Trek characters played by Marina Sirtis and Jonathan Frakes respectively, said Ralph.
Liz, who also wore white, considered basing the design of her dress on the one worn by Sirtis.
“To be honest, it was a pink awful thing, so I went more traditional for the wedding dress,” she said.
At one point during the private ceremony, the Star Wars fanfare could be heard playing behind closed doors. When asked why the Trek-themed wedding featured a song from Star Wars, the couple said it was a friendly joke for their family, who aren’t as familiar with the differences between the two universes and have occasionally combined Star Trek’s famous Vulcan salute with Star Wars’ famous expression, “May the Force be with you.”
The couple met at a science fiction and fantasy convention in Vancouver.
While they share a passion for Star Trek, it wasn’t the only common interest that drew them together, said Liz.
But it certainly played a major role in their decision to get married in the Star Trek capital of Canada.
“I couldn’t think of a better place to do it,” said Ralph. “I love the venue, this is a great place.”
Both agreed that other couples who are fans of Star Trek should think about exchanging their vows in Vulcan.
“We did something that we wanted to do that was important to us,” said Ralph on their decision to wed in Vulcan.
He first heard about this little Prairie town more than 20 years ago, when the Trek theme was still in its infancy. But he had come to visit on a Sunday, when everything was closed. It would be many more years before Ralph got a chance to visit Vulcan more in depth.
Ralph and Liz visited Vulcan this past Labour Day long weekend, and the couple got a chance to check out the sites. Chances are it’s just a matter of time before they beam back to town.
“I don’t see any reason why we wouldn’t come here and visit,” said Ralph. “Especially on a celebration like Spock Days, that would be awesome.”
Photo courtesy of The Vulcan Advocate
Trekkie nuptials in Vulcan
Simon Ducatel, Reporter
Saturday, September 20, 2014
A Calgary couple who enjoys Star Trek tied the knot in Vulcan recently. Star Trek fans Nicolas Ridley, who moved to Calgary from Montreal, and his bride Belinda Clary, from Calgary, couldn't miss the opportunity to have some photos taken with the FX6-1995-A star ship following their wedding ceremony at the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station on Saturday, Sept. 13. “We’re all trekkies, so why not?” said Ridley, who grew up watching the show. The weather was rather cool and overcast, but it could have been worse. “I’m glad there’s no snow!” he said.
To all our loyal friends and fans,
The Indiegogo campaign currently running to help Vulcan build the U.S.S Enterprise is a marketing campaign to advertise the Canadian Badlands region of Alberta and feature Vulcan.
This campaign was conceived and produced by Canadian Badlands Ltd. The campaign is meant to be filled with fun, fantasy and generate discussion and attention. Just imagine if we really COULD build the Enterprise! We are thrilled with the support and excitement from our fans on such an enormous project. PLEASE DO NOT SEND MONEY! Note all donations already made will be returned to the donors as the target will not be reached, as per Indiegogo rules.
Please Share.https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-vulcan-alberta-build-the-uss-enterprise
Trekkie nuptials in Vulcan
Simon Ducatel, Reporter
Saturday, September 20, 2014
A Calgary couple who enjoys Star Trek tied the knot in Vulcan recently. Star Trek fans Nicolas Ridley, who moved to Calgary from Montreal, and his bride Belinda Clary, from Calgary, couldn't miss the opportunity to have some photos taken with the FX6-1995-A star ship following their wedding ceremony at the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station on Saturday, Sept. 13. “We’re all trekkies, so why not?” said Ridley, who grew up watching the show. The weather was rather cool and overcast, but it could have been worse. “I’m glad there’s no snow!” he said.
To all our loyal friends and fans,
The Indiegogo campaign currently running to help Vulcan build the U.S.S Enterprise is a marketing campaign to advertise the Canadian Badlands region of Alberta and feature Vulcan.
This campaign was conceived and produced by Canadian Badlands Ltd. The campaign is meant to be filled with fun, fantasy and generate discussion and attention. Just imagine if we really COULD build the Enterprise! We are thrilled with the support and excitement from our fans on such an enormous project. PLEASE DO NOT SEND MONEY! Note all donations already made will be returned to the donors as the target will not be reached, as per Indiegogo rules.
Please Share.https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-vulcan-alberta-build-the-uss-enterprise
Star Trek Walk of Fame still on hiatus
Simon Ducatel Reporter
Monday, July 14, 2014 1:49:55 MDT PM
After it became apparent last year the Star Trek Walk of Fame bronze plaques would not weather well, the project was put on hold until a suitable solution was found. Planning remains stalled until the Town determines what direction it will take with its downtown revitalization plan.
The Star Trek Walk of Fame was put on hold about a year ago because the only plaque installed back in 2011 was already showing signs of weathering.
Tourism administrator Devan Daniels had at the time expressed a desire to display the plaques in such a way that their longevity would be significantly improved. One proposal was to remove the plaque from the sidewalk and instead mount it, and future plaques, on a specially dedicated wall.
While the project hasn’t made any headway since, it has not been abandoned, said Daniels.
As the Town of Vulcan is considering a downtown revitalization plan, which will likely include new sidewalks, any plaques that are installed would have to be removed anyway, said Daniels.
So it would be like putting the cart before the horse to come up with a proposal for the walk or wall of fame before knowing how Vulcan’s downtown could potentially change, he said.
Having a location to display them is one thing, but the plaques still have to be made.
To simplify the process of obtaining the plaques and perhaps reduce the cost, the Vulcan Tourism Society is considering looking for a local artist, said Daniels.
The previous plaques were made by Jennifer Bunt, who lives in Cleveland, Ohio.
Bronze plaques were made for last year’s Spock Days guest stars, Robert Picardo and Ethan Phillips, who played The Doctor and Neelix on Star Trek: Voyager respectively, but those plaques will remain in storage until such a time a suitable alternative to display them comes to fruition, said Daniels.
Although plaques were not made for this year’s guest stars from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine — Nana Visitor, who played the Bajoran Major Kira Nerys, René Auberjonois, who played the shape-shifter and security chief Odo and Chase Masterson, who played casino girl Leeta — they did agree to provide their handprints, said Daniels.
“We have the ability to get the plaques done for the stars that were here,” he said. “We’re not going to miss anybody.”
As for Star Trek: Voyager actor Garrett Wang’s bronze plaque, the only plaque installed to date and the one that has been weathered, it will likely end up being made anew as the tourism society still has the original handprint, said Daniels.
But that will not likely happen any time before a proper plan has been proposed to display the plaques, which itself is pending on the Town’s downtown revitalization plan. There also remain discussions to be held to determine whether the plaques will be displayed in one location, or spread around the downtown core, which was the initial intent, said Daniels.
The original plan was to install as many as 35 plaques over several years in front of Vulcan’s downtown businesses to bring visitors across the tracks and along Centre Street.
Simon Ducatel Reporter
Monday, July 14, 2014 1:49:55 MDT PM
After it became apparent last year the Star Trek Walk of Fame bronze plaques would not weather well, the project was put on hold until a suitable solution was found. Planning remains stalled until the Town determines what direction it will take with its downtown revitalization plan.
The Star Trek Walk of Fame was put on hold about a year ago because the only plaque installed back in 2011 was already showing signs of weathering.
Tourism administrator Devan Daniels had at the time expressed a desire to display the plaques in such a way that their longevity would be significantly improved. One proposal was to remove the plaque from the sidewalk and instead mount it, and future plaques, on a specially dedicated wall.
While the project hasn’t made any headway since, it has not been abandoned, said Daniels.
As the Town of Vulcan is considering a downtown revitalization plan, which will likely include new sidewalks, any plaques that are installed would have to be removed anyway, said Daniels.
So it would be like putting the cart before the horse to come up with a proposal for the walk or wall of fame before knowing how Vulcan’s downtown could potentially change, he said.
Having a location to display them is one thing, but the plaques still have to be made.
To simplify the process of obtaining the plaques and perhaps reduce the cost, the Vulcan Tourism Society is considering looking for a local artist, said Daniels.
The previous plaques were made by Jennifer Bunt, who lives in Cleveland, Ohio.
Bronze plaques were made for last year’s Spock Days guest stars, Robert Picardo and Ethan Phillips, who played The Doctor and Neelix on Star Trek: Voyager respectively, but those plaques will remain in storage until such a time a suitable alternative to display them comes to fruition, said Daniels.
Although plaques were not made for this year’s guest stars from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine — Nana Visitor, who played the Bajoran Major Kira Nerys, René Auberjonois, who played the shape-shifter and security chief Odo and Chase Masterson, who played casino girl Leeta — they did agree to provide their handprints, said Daniels.
“We have the ability to get the plaques done for the stars that were here,” he said. “We’re not going to miss anybody.”
As for Star Trek: Voyager actor Garrett Wang’s bronze plaque, the only plaque installed to date and the one that has been weathered, it will likely end up being made anew as the tourism society still has the original handprint, said Daniels.
But that will not likely happen any time before a proper plan has been proposed to display the plaques, which itself is pending on the Town’s downtown revitalization plan. There also remain discussions to be held to determine whether the plaques will be displayed in one location, or spread around the downtown core, which was the initial intent, said Daniels.
The original plan was to install as many as 35 plaques over several years in front of Vulcan’s downtown businesses to bring visitors across the tracks and along Centre Street.
USS Vulcan wins awards
Photo submitted by Brigitte Ducatel
Saturday, July 5, 2014 11:09:55 MDT AM
The USS Vulcan appeared for the second year in a row at the Calgary Stampede Parade on Friday morning to the delight of parade goers. This year, the float won Best Overall Parade Entry and the Best Municipal Entry.
June 2014
Trek fan or not, Spock Days promises plenty of family fun Simon Ducatel
Friday, June 13, 2014 8:30:06 MDT AM
Vulcan’s largest annual event might feature Star Trek icons, but the convention caters to everyone, not just Trek fans.
For three days, starting today, there’s no shortage of activities for the entire family.
Of course there are also plenty of items on the schedule that will appeal to Star Trek fans as well.
Fans will most likely be looking forward to their chance to learn a bit more about several actors who played in Star Trek Deep Space Nine, and to perhaps have their photos taken with the actors.
This year’s guests stars are Nana Visitor, René Auberjonois and Chase Masterson, who played the roles of, respectively, Major Kira Nerys, the shape-shifter and security chief Odo, and casino girl Leeta.
They’ll be appearing in Saturday morning’s parade, and later that day they will also be taking part in some questions and answers, followed later by a live stage show.
Although not part of the Star Trek universe, this year’s fourth guest, Cameron Farn, from Calgary, will be doing a presentation on the work he’s done in science fiction. The artist has worked on many projects spanning from cinema to commercial design.
Fans will also get a chance to find to Trek paraphernalia at the dealers’ room.
A wide range of other events scheduled will likely appeal to families looking for a fun way to spend the weekend together.
Finishing off the opening day is a fireworks show at the rodeo grounds starting at 11 p.m. That might be a bit later for children, but it only happens once a year, so why not stay up just a bit later?
The parade Saturday doesn’t start until 10 a.m., so even those who saw the fireworks the night before should have a chance to get plenty of rest before the busiest day of Spock Days.
There will be barbecues, wacky trikes, airplane train rides, a dunk tank, a family fun fair and a dog agility show. If the weather is warm, people will get a chance to cool off at the swimming pool, which is offering free entry from 1-6 p.m.
Returning after a successful first appearance last year is the laser tag. The day wraps up with a dinner followed by a video dance party, while others might choose to check up a live performance by Pistol Noon.
By Sunday, things are winding down, but there are still events lined up on the schedule, including a question and answer session with Farn.
Make sure to check out www.vulcantourism.ca for a full list of events, and their locations.
Regardless of whether you consider yourself a Trek fan, there are plenty of reasons to come out and enjoy Spock Days.
So we hope you’ll come out to support the community’s most popular annual event!
Photo submitted by Brigitte Ducatel
Saturday, July 5, 2014 11:09:55 MDT AM
The USS Vulcan appeared for the second year in a row at the Calgary Stampede Parade on Friday morning to the delight of parade goers. This year, the float won Best Overall Parade Entry and the Best Municipal Entry.
June 2014
Trek fan or not, Spock Days promises plenty of family fun Simon Ducatel
Friday, June 13, 2014 8:30:06 MDT AM
Vulcan’s largest annual event might feature Star Trek icons, but the convention caters to everyone, not just Trek fans.
For three days, starting today, there’s no shortage of activities for the entire family.
Of course there are also plenty of items on the schedule that will appeal to Star Trek fans as well.
Fans will most likely be looking forward to their chance to learn a bit more about several actors who played in Star Trek Deep Space Nine, and to perhaps have their photos taken with the actors.
This year’s guests stars are Nana Visitor, René Auberjonois and Chase Masterson, who played the roles of, respectively, Major Kira Nerys, the shape-shifter and security chief Odo, and casino girl Leeta.
They’ll be appearing in Saturday morning’s parade, and later that day they will also be taking part in some questions and answers, followed later by a live stage show.
Although not part of the Star Trek universe, this year’s fourth guest, Cameron Farn, from Calgary, will be doing a presentation on the work he’s done in science fiction. The artist has worked on many projects spanning from cinema to commercial design.
Fans will also get a chance to find to Trek paraphernalia at the dealers’ room.
A wide range of other events scheduled will likely appeal to families looking for a fun way to spend the weekend together.
Finishing off the opening day is a fireworks show at the rodeo grounds starting at 11 p.m. That might be a bit later for children, but it only happens once a year, so why not stay up just a bit later?
The parade Saturday doesn’t start until 10 a.m., so even those who saw the fireworks the night before should have a chance to get plenty of rest before the busiest day of Spock Days.
There will be barbecues, wacky trikes, airplane train rides, a dunk tank, a family fun fair and a dog agility show. If the weather is warm, people will get a chance to cool off at the swimming pool, which is offering free entry from 1-6 p.m.
Returning after a successful first appearance last year is the laser tag. The day wraps up with a dinner followed by a video dance party, while others might choose to check up a live performance by Pistol Noon.
By Sunday, things are winding down, but there are still events lined up on the schedule, including a question and answer session with Farn.
Make sure to check out www.vulcantourism.ca for a full list of events, and their locations.
Regardless of whether you consider yourself a Trek fan, there are plenty of reasons to come out and enjoy Spock Days.
So we hope you’ll come out to support the community’s most popular annual event!
For the first time, the Spock Days parade was broadcast live.
Here, AM1140 Sun Country's Russell Skeet and Vulcan's Sandra Cooke-Locken describe the parade as it goes down Centre Street on Saturday morning.
Simon Ducatel, Vulcan Advocate
For the first time, the Spock Days parade was broadcast live. Here, AM1140 Sun Country's Russell Skeet and Vulcan's Sandra Cooke-Locken describe the parade as it goes down Centre Street on Saturday morning. Simon Ducatel, Vulcan Advocate
Vulcan will be the first rural community in North America to have a broadcasting network. The 22nd annual Spock Days parade was broadcast live through the Vulcan tourism website at 10 a.m.
“This is very exciting for Vulcan,” said Sandra Scott, the Vulcan Brand Innovation Team (VBIT) co-chair.
The VBIT, a group of local residents who work to promote Vulcan and explore different branding opportunities, have been working with Worldplay to be the first rural community in Canada to begin community broadcasting.
Vulcan’s debut broadcast happened on June 14 for the Spock Days parade at 10 a.m. Worldplay Live introduced the new network vTV through the Vulcan tourism website and also included additional coverage of various news stories around the event.
“We always have to be looking for ways to be breaking ground in everything we do,” Scott said.
Worldplay is a global company that offers an online video platform to allow customizable internet broadcasting that is available live or on-demand.
Scott said that Worldplay had been seeking a small rural community to invest in to start their community broadcasting. Vulcan was chosen because of the town’s unique branding of being known as the most technologically advanced rural community and the fact that the town also has fiber optic cables, a technology that uses glass or plastic threads to transmit data.
“Vulcan will be the showcase model for community based internet broadcasting,” Scott said.
The new Vulcan network vTV will be like any other network station, according to Scott. The network will have the option to broadcast live or recorded shows 24-hours a day, with an unlimited amount of channels. There will also be potential for Vulcan to promote Pay-Per-View with various events that take place in the town throughout the year, such as Spock Days.
“It has potential to be a big revenue stream for the town and county,” Scott said.
“This is a very big step for Vulcan and communities like us.”
In 2015, Spock Days and convention to split into two events
Stephen Tipper Editor
Wednesday, April 23, 2014 4:59:01 MDT PM
Next year, Spock Days will no longer feature a Star Trek-themed convention.
Spock Days will include things like the ball tournament, family fun fair, beer garden and parade on the second weekend of June in 2015 while Vulcan will host a sci-fi convention on the second weekend in July.
Devan Daniels, administrator for the Vulcan and District Tourism Society, told the Advocate April 23 that the move has numerous benefits.
“This is a win-win all the way around,” he said.
Splitting the events into two weekends allows the hotels and campgrounds to fill up on two weekends, not one, and doesn’t force visitors who can’t find space locally to spend the night in other, further-off communities, said Daniels. The two events also won’t be competing for venue space, he added.
The Vulcan and District Tourism Society and the Spock Days Association will both be able to apply for festival grant funding, he added.
Both Spock Days and the convention are distinct events, said Daniels.
While there is some crossover between the two, but it’s “very little,” he said.
The people who attend Spock Days “aren’t really Trek enthusiasts,” Daniels said.
Although the move means the Star Trek celebrities will no longer be part of the Spock Days parade, organizers want to come up with an event on Saturday morning that the “whole town can see,” said Daniels.
The sci-convention, which doesn’t have a name yet, will include Star Trek but also other aspects of the science fiction universe, he said.
“We will always have someone from Trek” as a guest, said Daniels.
Daniels noted some Star Trek alumni have worked on other science fiction shows, such as Stargate SG-1, and he suggested another actor could be brought in who has worked with that Star Trek celebrity.
“We could have some interesting tie-ins that way,” he said, adding a theme could be developed.
The convention will feature the same events, such as the photo ops, panel discussion, question-and-answer sessions, and dinner and dance, as previous years, said Daniels.
Daniels also wants to include a larger vendors’ room, and that space will also an “artists’ alley” to highlight the work of local artists, said Daniels.
February 2014Spock Days guests announced Simon Ducatel
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Fans of Star Trek: Deep Space 9 will get a special treat at Spock Days this year.The Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station announced Friday this year’s guest stars are Nana Visitor, who played the Bajoran Major Kira Nerys, and René Auberjonois, who played the shape-shifter and security chief Odo.
“I’m very excited to have some people from Deep Space 9,” said tourism administrator Devan Daniels.
“It is their first time to Spock Days,” he said, adding he was informed both actors had been interested in coming to Vulcan for the annual Trek convention.
Star Trek: Deep Space 9 ran from 1993 to 1999.
A third guest, who has no ties to the Star Trek universe but is no stranger to science fiction and creative work, Cameron Farn, will also be at Spock Days, said Daniels. Born and raised in Calgary, Farn has worked on many projects spanning from cinema to commercial design.
Vulcan Tourism plans to update its new website with the guests' information soon.
The site’s old design, which was cumbersome for staff to use and challenging to update, was completely scrapped in favour of a new design, said Daniels.
“The new one is more user friendly,” he said.
Visit www.vulcantourism.com to see the new site, which went live at 11 p.m. on Feb. 13.
Tickets for this year’s Spock Days, which takes place June 13-15, will go on sale March 1 at 10 a.m., said Daniels. They will be available online, by calling the Trek Station at 403-485-2994 or by dropping by in person, he said.
As always, there will be ticket packages ranging from ensign to admiral, with each providing deals on the events taking place over the Spock Days weekend.
January 2014
Tourism is in full swing planning for Spock Days which will be held June 13-15 2014. Our special guests will be announced soon. Make sure to follow us on Facebook.
December 2013
Happy Holidays! Santa Day at the Trek Station - 12:00 pm -2:00 pm Free picture with Santa! Sponsored by the Vulcan Elks and other service groups.
November 2013
Vulcan Tourism will be at the Lethbridge Entertainment Expo November 23-24 If you are attending please stop by at our booth, say hi and check out our Tribbles! Yes we have Tribbles!
October 2013
Happy Thanksgiving!Vulcan Tourism will be attending the annual Travel Alberta Conference in Banff National Park this year on
October 27-29 2013.Looking forward to seeing everybody.
September 2013
This will be Vulcan Tourism's first year attending the Edmonton Entertainment Expo on September 27-29 2013. We are looking forward to meeting new people. Hope everybody comes to say hi to us.
Marini sirtis came to our booth to visit!!!
August 2013
Vulcan is having its centennial!! Come out for our festivities August 2-4 2013 go to www.vulcans100.com for a schedule of our weekends events.We have been have been invited to Trekcetra's VIP party before their Grand Opening!
Trek museum opens in Vulcan
Simon Ducatel Vulcan Advocate
Its official opening isn’t until Aug. 2, but Trekcetera, Canada’s only Star Trek museum, is now open to the public during a special preview week prior to the ribbon cutting.
Originally slated to open during Spock Days, the museum’s opening was delayed because renovations weren’t completed.
“It has to be right if you’re going to open your doors,” said co-owner Michael Mangold during an opening address before an invitation-only crowd on July 25.
There will be an official grand opening ceremony during Vulcan’s centennial celebration on Aug. 2.
While the museum’s focus is on Star Trek, it also features authentic movie and television show costumes and props from films like Superman, Brokeback Mountain, Sherlock Holmes and Titanic.
When the Advocate spoke on Saturday, July 27 with Devan Daniels, who co-owns the museum with Mangold, he said people — including a couple from southern Ontario who hoped the museum would be open — were already coming through the doors.
Anyone who wants more information can call the museum at 403-485-6611.
Rod Roddenberry helps with Trekcetera launch
Simon Ducatel Saturday, August 10, 2013 Vulcan Advocate
The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry made an appearance, of sorts, for the official opening of Trekcetera.
“I’m a fan of museums, and I know my father was,” said Rod Roddenberry in a pre-prepared video recording played on Aug. 2.
“Not just because there’s cool things to see, which Trekcetera will definitely have cool things to see, but museums allow us sort of a glimpse into our history, no matter what they’re for.
“They show us what we once were, and they allow us to reflect on that often, and reflect on who we are today. And I think what’s special about this museum, at least the Star Trek content, is that it’ll give us a glimpse into our future. Our human potential.
“For those of you who have seen Star Trek, you know that was much more than just science fiction. It shows the glimpse of a future that was believable, that was achievable, and something I think we all wanted for our own futures and our children’s futures.
“So I congratulate those of who have put Trekcetera together — may you all live long and prosper. I look forward to coming up there and visiting it myself soon.”
The museum, which has been dedicated to Gene and Majel Roddenberry, is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The last admissions are taken at 7 p.m., and doors are closed at 8 p.m. For more information, call 403-485-6611 or visit www.trekcetera.com.
July 2013
Hoping everyone has a safe and fantastic summer!
The Vulcan Starship FX6-1995, a scaled-down replica of Star Trek's USS Enterprise, will be refurbished.
A token attraction for the town of Vulcan, the scaled-down replica of the USS Enterprise, will soon undergo refurbishments to make it look as good as new.
The $60,000 project is slated to start within the next couple of weeks so that the newly re-done statue will be ready for Vulcan’s Centennial celebration.
Jeff Johnstone, development officer for the town of Vulcan, finds the replica Enterprise, which is called the Vulcan Starship FX6-1995 after the local airport’s designation code followed by the year the ship was built, is looking tired and rusty.
“We have to do something because if not, it will get to the point of having to replace it and we don’t want to do that,” said Johnstone.
The project will take about two to three weeks to complete, weather permitting, he said.
The replica Enterprise will undergo an initial sandblasting and then once it has been stripped down to the metal, an acid wash will be applied and then the metal will be sealed.
Once the underneath is complete, the starship will get a fresh coat of paint. There will be one change to the replica Enterprise from the old version — along the sides of the barrel engines, instead of applying the stripe detail with paint, weather resistant decals will be applied, said Johnstone.
Funding for the project will come mostly from the Town — roughly $40,000 — but the remainder of the funds will be received from community fundraising efforts, said Troy Jenkins, administrator for the Town of Vulcan.
Star Trek Walk of Fame being revised
Kassidy Christensen, Vulcan Advocate
Sunday, July 7, 2013
The one plaque in Vulcan's Star Trek Walk of Fame has not weathered well, and the Vulcan Tourism Society is considering another way to display the plaques, such as on a wall of fame.
Vulcan's Star Trek Walk of Fame might not be completed as originally planned.
Despite the creative initiative to commemorate Star Trek stars who have visited Vulcan with a walk of fame, the one plaque that has been placed in town has not weathered as well as expected.
Residents might be familiar with the bronze plate that sits on the corner of Second Avenue and Centre Street in front of Threadlinks, which was placed after Garrett Wang — who played Ensign Harry Kim on Star Trek: Voyager — visited. Its condition has deteriorated since its placement, making it difficult to read what’s inscribed on the plaque.
Devan Daniels, tourism administrator at the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station, noticed throughout the past year the writing and handprint was getting flatter and flatter as time progressed.
“With our climate here in Canada, we have snow-clearing equipment, so that means brushes, shovels — the whole bit,” said Daniels. “What’s happening to the bronze tile is one, it’s being worn thin, which means eventually it’ll just disappear and become totally flat. The second thing is it’s being scratched really, really badly. Even the cement form around it — the delta shield — is chipping.”
The plaque was set in the cement delta shield two years ago. There are two other delta shields that have been made but don’t have plaques yet. Now the tourism society is reconsidering how the plaques should be displayed.
“What we need to do is get the bronze tiles out of the ground and display them differently so that they will last for years and years to come,” said Daniels.
Some options have been considered, one being having the plaques raised by a concrete podium that sits at about waist level for visitors to observe and read. This idea was discounted because it simply creates more obstacles on the sidewalks, said Daniels.
The most recent option that is being considered is instead of having a walk of fame downtown, having a wall of fame. But this idea still needed to be brought up with the board, said Daniels.
The idea behind having a walk or wall of fame is to drive tourist traffic into the middle of town, said Daniels.
“Our problem here that we have always had is that people stop at the tourist centre and then they get back on the highway and keep going,” said Daniels.
The inspiration behind the walk of fame came from workers at the Trek Station wanting to commemorate the actors who have visited the town during Spock Days.
At this year’s Spock Days, two plaques were unveiled to commemorate Ethan Phillips and Robert Picardo, who played Neelix and The Doctor on Star Trek: Voyager, respectively.
Daniels hopes that with the continuation of Spock Days and the addition of plaques that it will grow the walk or wall of fame and make it an even bigger attraction for tourists to come and see.
“In addition, the people who have already seen the wall of fame at one point, two or three years later will see that it’s different because of all the additions. They’ll want to see it again,” said Daniels.
“We see it as a sustainable tourism idea — there’s always going to be something new to see with the wall (or walk) of fame. People can keep coming back time and time again and it won't be the same old same old.”
June 2013 Two words....Spock Days! June 7-9. Come for all of our festivities. Say hi to Robert Picardo, Ethan Phillips, and Rick Sternbach.
Family fun fair, Trek-themed Parade, Fireworks, Green screen photo booth, Vendors room, Slow pitch Ball tournament, Beverage gardens, Celebrity Dinner and Video Dance party. Plus don't forget Autographs, Photo Opps and the Q&A sessions.
Vulcan Tourism Society sets up booth at expo By Stephen Tipper and Simon Ducatel, Vulcan Advocate
The Vulcan Tourism Society attended the recent Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo along with the Vulcan Business Development Society.
The annual event, which took place April 26-28, draws out tens of thousands of science fiction and fantasy aficionados. Of all the people who come through the comic expo, which usually sells out well in advance, 47 per cent are in the 30-50 year old age category.
“It’s like the ultimate ideal demographic,” said Jon Allan, economic development officer with VBDS, which had space in a booth that was rented by Vulcan tourism.
And guys aren’t the only ones to come out to the comic book and science fiction oriented event — attendance between the sexes is split evenly at 50 per cent, he said.
“It’s not at all a male dominated thing,” said Allan.
There was a lot of interest demonstrated in the Town of Vulcan’s presence at the expo, he said, adding that 500 surveys that had been brought ran out.
“It was fantastic,” said Shannon Clarke, Vulcan Tourism’s new assistant administrator, about the comic expo.
She said she saw a bit of everything — many people were dressed up in a variety of characters from science fiction to fantasy.
“It was very busy,” she said, adding that she talked to plenty of people about the Town of Vulcan and what it has to offer.
“A lot of people hadn’t heard of Vulcan,” said Clarke. While the Town has had an increasing presence around the world with boosts such as Leonard Nimoy’s 2010 visit, she said it’s still important to go to events like the expo to continue spreading the word.
“I saw a lot of enthusiasm” for events like Spock Days and the coming Star Trek museum, Treckcetera, she said.
“It was really good exposure” for the Town of Vulcan to be at the expo, said Clarke.
March 10, 2010 – Vulcan, Alberta, formally recognized as “Official Star Trek Capital of Canada”
March 10, 2010 Vulcan, Alberta – Residents of the town of Vulcan, Alberta, marked a new milestone in their quirky sci-fi history: formal status as the
“Official Star Trek Capital of Canada”.
In early 2010
Vulcan and CBS Consumer Products finalized the terms of a licensing agreement making the small prairie town the first officially recognized Star Trek destination in Canada, and granting it the right to create a unique line of collectible Star Trek/Vulcan souvenir merchandise that will only be available at Vulcan County businesses. “We are very excited about our new status as the Official Star Trek Capital of Canada, and look forward to working with CBS to incorporate even more elements of the Star Trek universe into our community’s public spaces,” said Dayna Dickens, Vulcan’s Tourism Coordinator.
Special events were planned throughout spring 2010 to help celebrate the galactic occasion.
- A special visit from actor Leonard Nimoy, the original Vulcan Mr. Spock on April 23, courtesy of the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo.
- Unveiling a bronze bust of Mr. Spock and Mr. Nimoy’s Live Long and Prosper handprint in downtown Vulcan.
- The launch of an inaugural line of Star Trek collectible souvenir merchandise in the Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station gift shop.
The Town of Vulcan recently gained international fame for its ambitious goal to host the world premiere of the new Star Trek movie, despite not having a movie theatre. The campaign to bring the movie premiere to Vulcan followed in the wake of Vulcan’s long Star Trek history including: 2008’s unveiling of a large Star Trek Memorabilia Collection; opening the Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station – a spacey tourist information centre in 1998; unveiling a 5-tonne replica of the Starship Enterprise in 1995; and the town’s first Star Trek Convention held back in 1993. Tributes to science fiction are everywhere from space murals and alien signage that grace the walls and street corners of this little town on the prairies to a Star Trek grave stone in the local cemetery.
The Town of Vulcan, Alberta, is a “logical” year-round destination for science-fiction enthusiasts and Star Trek fans from across the galaxy.
Star Trek fans and residents of the Town of Vulcan, Alberta in celebrating the town’s new status as “Official Star Trek Capital of Canada”, with a very special close encounter of the Vulcan kind.
On Friday April 23, 2010
Actor Leonard Nimoy, best known for his portrayal of Mr. Spock in the original Star Trek series had visited Vulcan, courtesy of the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo. To mark this historic occasion, town officials have commissioned sculptor Nathan Scott to create a bronze bust of Mr. Spock that will be unveiled by Nimoy during his visit. While in Vulcan, Nimoy will leave behind his iconic “live long and prosper” handprint that will be immortalized in bronze, and will present the Town of Vulcan a unique
item on loan from his personal Star Trek collection, a lithograph of the Original Star Trek cast, autographed by all of the original cast members and will be on display at the Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station.
Here, AM1140 Sun Country's Russell Skeet and Vulcan's Sandra Cooke-Locken describe the parade as it goes down Centre Street on Saturday morning.
Simon Ducatel, Vulcan Advocate
For the first time, the Spock Days parade was broadcast live. Here, AM1140 Sun Country's Russell Skeet and Vulcan's Sandra Cooke-Locken describe the parade as it goes down Centre Street on Saturday morning. Simon Ducatel, Vulcan Advocate
Vulcan will be the first rural community in North America to have a broadcasting network. The 22nd annual Spock Days parade was broadcast live through the Vulcan tourism website at 10 a.m.
“This is very exciting for Vulcan,” said Sandra Scott, the Vulcan Brand Innovation Team (VBIT) co-chair.
The VBIT, a group of local residents who work to promote Vulcan and explore different branding opportunities, have been working with Worldplay to be the first rural community in Canada to begin community broadcasting.
Vulcan’s debut broadcast happened on June 14 for the Spock Days parade at 10 a.m. Worldplay Live introduced the new network vTV through the Vulcan tourism website and also included additional coverage of various news stories around the event.
“We always have to be looking for ways to be breaking ground in everything we do,” Scott said.
Worldplay is a global company that offers an online video platform to allow customizable internet broadcasting that is available live or on-demand.
Scott said that Worldplay had been seeking a small rural community to invest in to start their community broadcasting. Vulcan was chosen because of the town’s unique branding of being known as the most technologically advanced rural community and the fact that the town also has fiber optic cables, a technology that uses glass or plastic threads to transmit data.
“Vulcan will be the showcase model for community based internet broadcasting,” Scott said.
The new Vulcan network vTV will be like any other network station, according to Scott. The network will have the option to broadcast live or recorded shows 24-hours a day, with an unlimited amount of channels. There will also be potential for Vulcan to promote Pay-Per-View with various events that take place in the town throughout the year, such as Spock Days.
“It has potential to be a big revenue stream for the town and county,” Scott said.
“This is a very big step for Vulcan and communities like us.”
In 2015, Spock Days and convention to split into two events
Stephen Tipper Editor
Wednesday, April 23, 2014 4:59:01 MDT PM
Next year, Spock Days will no longer feature a Star Trek-themed convention.
Spock Days will include things like the ball tournament, family fun fair, beer garden and parade on the second weekend of June in 2015 while Vulcan will host a sci-fi convention on the second weekend in July.
Devan Daniels, administrator for the Vulcan and District Tourism Society, told the Advocate April 23 that the move has numerous benefits.
“This is a win-win all the way around,” he said.
Splitting the events into two weekends allows the hotels and campgrounds to fill up on two weekends, not one, and doesn’t force visitors who can’t find space locally to spend the night in other, further-off communities, said Daniels. The two events also won’t be competing for venue space, he added.
The Vulcan and District Tourism Society and the Spock Days Association will both be able to apply for festival grant funding, he added.
Both Spock Days and the convention are distinct events, said Daniels.
While there is some crossover between the two, but it’s “very little,” he said.
The people who attend Spock Days “aren’t really Trek enthusiasts,” Daniels said.
Although the move means the Star Trek celebrities will no longer be part of the Spock Days parade, organizers want to come up with an event on Saturday morning that the “whole town can see,” said Daniels.
The sci-convention, which doesn’t have a name yet, will include Star Trek but also other aspects of the science fiction universe, he said.
“We will always have someone from Trek” as a guest, said Daniels.
Daniels noted some Star Trek alumni have worked on other science fiction shows, such as Stargate SG-1, and he suggested another actor could be brought in who has worked with that Star Trek celebrity.
“We could have some interesting tie-ins that way,” he said, adding a theme could be developed.
The convention will feature the same events, such as the photo ops, panel discussion, question-and-answer sessions, and dinner and dance, as previous years, said Daniels.
Daniels also wants to include a larger vendors’ room, and that space will also an “artists’ alley” to highlight the work of local artists, said Daniels.
February 2014Spock Days guests announced Simon Ducatel
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Fans of Star Trek: Deep Space 9 will get a special treat at Spock Days this year.The Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station announced Friday this year’s guest stars are Nana Visitor, who played the Bajoran Major Kira Nerys, and René Auberjonois, who played the shape-shifter and security chief Odo.
“I’m very excited to have some people from Deep Space 9,” said tourism administrator Devan Daniels.
“It is their first time to Spock Days,” he said, adding he was informed both actors had been interested in coming to Vulcan for the annual Trek convention.
Star Trek: Deep Space 9 ran from 1993 to 1999.
A third guest, who has no ties to the Star Trek universe but is no stranger to science fiction and creative work, Cameron Farn, will also be at Spock Days, said Daniels. Born and raised in Calgary, Farn has worked on many projects spanning from cinema to commercial design.
Vulcan Tourism plans to update its new website with the guests' information soon.
The site’s old design, which was cumbersome for staff to use and challenging to update, was completely scrapped in favour of a new design, said Daniels.
“The new one is more user friendly,” he said.
Visit www.vulcantourism.com to see the new site, which went live at 11 p.m. on Feb. 13.
Tickets for this year’s Spock Days, which takes place June 13-15, will go on sale March 1 at 10 a.m., said Daniels. They will be available online, by calling the Trek Station at 403-485-2994 or by dropping by in person, he said.
As always, there will be ticket packages ranging from ensign to admiral, with each providing deals on the events taking place over the Spock Days weekend.
January 2014
Tourism is in full swing planning for Spock Days which will be held June 13-15 2014. Our special guests will be announced soon. Make sure to follow us on Facebook.
December 2013
Happy Holidays! Santa Day at the Trek Station - 12:00 pm -2:00 pm Free picture with Santa! Sponsored by the Vulcan Elks and other service groups.
November 2013
Vulcan Tourism will be at the Lethbridge Entertainment Expo November 23-24 If you are attending please stop by at our booth, say hi and check out our Tribbles! Yes we have Tribbles!
October 2013
Happy Thanksgiving!Vulcan Tourism will be attending the annual Travel Alberta Conference in Banff National Park this year on
October 27-29 2013.Looking forward to seeing everybody.
September 2013
This will be Vulcan Tourism's first year attending the Edmonton Entertainment Expo on September 27-29 2013. We are looking forward to meeting new people. Hope everybody comes to say hi to us.
Marini sirtis came to our booth to visit!!!
August 2013
Vulcan is having its centennial!! Come out for our festivities August 2-4 2013 go to www.vulcans100.com for a schedule of our weekends events.We have been have been invited to Trekcetra's VIP party before their Grand Opening!
Trek museum opens in Vulcan
Simon Ducatel Vulcan Advocate
Its official opening isn’t until Aug. 2, but Trekcetera, Canada’s only Star Trek museum, is now open to the public during a special preview week prior to the ribbon cutting.
Originally slated to open during Spock Days, the museum’s opening was delayed because renovations weren’t completed.
“It has to be right if you’re going to open your doors,” said co-owner Michael Mangold during an opening address before an invitation-only crowd on July 25.
There will be an official grand opening ceremony during Vulcan’s centennial celebration on Aug. 2.
While the museum’s focus is on Star Trek, it also features authentic movie and television show costumes and props from films like Superman, Brokeback Mountain, Sherlock Holmes and Titanic.
When the Advocate spoke on Saturday, July 27 with Devan Daniels, who co-owns the museum with Mangold, he said people — including a couple from southern Ontario who hoped the museum would be open — were already coming through the doors.
Anyone who wants more information can call the museum at 403-485-6611.
Rod Roddenberry helps with Trekcetera launch
Simon Ducatel Saturday, August 10, 2013 Vulcan Advocate
The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry made an appearance, of sorts, for the official opening of Trekcetera.
“I’m a fan of museums, and I know my father was,” said Rod Roddenberry in a pre-prepared video recording played on Aug. 2.
“Not just because there’s cool things to see, which Trekcetera will definitely have cool things to see, but museums allow us sort of a glimpse into our history, no matter what they’re for.
“They show us what we once were, and they allow us to reflect on that often, and reflect on who we are today. And I think what’s special about this museum, at least the Star Trek content, is that it’ll give us a glimpse into our future. Our human potential.
“For those of you who have seen Star Trek, you know that was much more than just science fiction. It shows the glimpse of a future that was believable, that was achievable, and something I think we all wanted for our own futures and our children’s futures.
“So I congratulate those of who have put Trekcetera together — may you all live long and prosper. I look forward to coming up there and visiting it myself soon.”
The museum, which has been dedicated to Gene and Majel Roddenberry, is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The last admissions are taken at 7 p.m., and doors are closed at 8 p.m. For more information, call 403-485-6611 or visit www.trekcetera.com.
July 2013
Hoping everyone has a safe and fantastic summer!
The Vulcan Starship FX6-1995, a scaled-down replica of Star Trek's USS Enterprise, will be refurbished.
A token attraction for the town of Vulcan, the scaled-down replica of the USS Enterprise, will soon undergo refurbishments to make it look as good as new.
The $60,000 project is slated to start within the next couple of weeks so that the newly re-done statue will be ready for Vulcan’s Centennial celebration.
Jeff Johnstone, development officer for the town of Vulcan, finds the replica Enterprise, which is called the Vulcan Starship FX6-1995 after the local airport’s designation code followed by the year the ship was built, is looking tired and rusty.
“We have to do something because if not, it will get to the point of having to replace it and we don’t want to do that,” said Johnstone.
The project will take about two to three weeks to complete, weather permitting, he said.
The replica Enterprise will undergo an initial sandblasting and then once it has been stripped down to the metal, an acid wash will be applied and then the metal will be sealed.
Once the underneath is complete, the starship will get a fresh coat of paint. There will be one change to the replica Enterprise from the old version — along the sides of the barrel engines, instead of applying the stripe detail with paint, weather resistant decals will be applied, said Johnstone.
Funding for the project will come mostly from the Town — roughly $40,000 — but the remainder of the funds will be received from community fundraising efforts, said Troy Jenkins, administrator for the Town of Vulcan.
Star Trek Walk of Fame being revised
Kassidy Christensen, Vulcan Advocate
Sunday, July 7, 2013
The one plaque in Vulcan's Star Trek Walk of Fame has not weathered well, and the Vulcan Tourism Society is considering another way to display the plaques, such as on a wall of fame.
Vulcan's Star Trek Walk of Fame might not be completed as originally planned.
Despite the creative initiative to commemorate Star Trek stars who have visited Vulcan with a walk of fame, the one plaque that has been placed in town has not weathered as well as expected.
Residents might be familiar with the bronze plate that sits on the corner of Second Avenue and Centre Street in front of Threadlinks, which was placed after Garrett Wang — who played Ensign Harry Kim on Star Trek: Voyager — visited. Its condition has deteriorated since its placement, making it difficult to read what’s inscribed on the plaque.
Devan Daniels, tourism administrator at the Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station, noticed throughout the past year the writing and handprint was getting flatter and flatter as time progressed.
“With our climate here in Canada, we have snow-clearing equipment, so that means brushes, shovels — the whole bit,” said Daniels. “What’s happening to the bronze tile is one, it’s being worn thin, which means eventually it’ll just disappear and become totally flat. The second thing is it’s being scratched really, really badly. Even the cement form around it — the delta shield — is chipping.”
The plaque was set in the cement delta shield two years ago. There are two other delta shields that have been made but don’t have plaques yet. Now the tourism society is reconsidering how the plaques should be displayed.
“What we need to do is get the bronze tiles out of the ground and display them differently so that they will last for years and years to come,” said Daniels.
Some options have been considered, one being having the plaques raised by a concrete podium that sits at about waist level for visitors to observe and read. This idea was discounted because it simply creates more obstacles on the sidewalks, said Daniels.
The most recent option that is being considered is instead of having a walk of fame downtown, having a wall of fame. But this idea still needed to be brought up with the board, said Daniels.
The idea behind having a walk or wall of fame is to drive tourist traffic into the middle of town, said Daniels.
“Our problem here that we have always had is that people stop at the tourist centre and then they get back on the highway and keep going,” said Daniels.
The inspiration behind the walk of fame came from workers at the Trek Station wanting to commemorate the actors who have visited the town during Spock Days.
At this year’s Spock Days, two plaques were unveiled to commemorate Ethan Phillips and Robert Picardo, who played Neelix and The Doctor on Star Trek: Voyager, respectively.
Daniels hopes that with the continuation of Spock Days and the addition of plaques that it will grow the walk or wall of fame and make it an even bigger attraction for tourists to come and see.
“In addition, the people who have already seen the wall of fame at one point, two or three years later will see that it’s different because of all the additions. They’ll want to see it again,” said Daniels.
“We see it as a sustainable tourism idea — there’s always going to be something new to see with the wall (or walk) of fame. People can keep coming back time and time again and it won't be the same old same old.”
June 2013 Two words....Spock Days! June 7-9. Come for all of our festivities. Say hi to Robert Picardo, Ethan Phillips, and Rick Sternbach.
Family fun fair, Trek-themed Parade, Fireworks, Green screen photo booth, Vendors room, Slow pitch Ball tournament, Beverage gardens, Celebrity Dinner and Video Dance party. Plus don't forget Autographs, Photo Opps and the Q&A sessions.
Vulcan Tourism Society sets up booth at expo By Stephen Tipper and Simon Ducatel, Vulcan Advocate
The Vulcan Tourism Society attended the recent Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo along with the Vulcan Business Development Society.
The annual event, which took place April 26-28, draws out tens of thousands of science fiction and fantasy aficionados. Of all the people who come through the comic expo, which usually sells out well in advance, 47 per cent are in the 30-50 year old age category.
“It’s like the ultimate ideal demographic,” said Jon Allan, economic development officer with VBDS, which had space in a booth that was rented by Vulcan tourism.
And guys aren’t the only ones to come out to the comic book and science fiction oriented event — attendance between the sexes is split evenly at 50 per cent, he said.
“It’s not at all a male dominated thing,” said Allan.
There was a lot of interest demonstrated in the Town of Vulcan’s presence at the expo, he said, adding that 500 surveys that had been brought ran out.
“It was fantastic,” said Shannon Clarke, Vulcan Tourism’s new assistant administrator, about the comic expo.
She said she saw a bit of everything — many people were dressed up in a variety of characters from science fiction to fantasy.
“It was very busy,” she said, adding that she talked to plenty of people about the Town of Vulcan and what it has to offer.
“A lot of people hadn’t heard of Vulcan,” said Clarke. While the Town has had an increasing presence around the world with boosts such as Leonard Nimoy’s 2010 visit, she said it’s still important to go to events like the expo to continue spreading the word.
“I saw a lot of enthusiasm” for events like Spock Days and the coming Star Trek museum, Treckcetera, she said.
“It was really good exposure” for the Town of Vulcan to be at the expo, said Clarke.
March 10, 2010 – Vulcan, Alberta, formally recognized as “Official Star Trek Capital of Canada”
March 10, 2010 Vulcan, Alberta – Residents of the town of Vulcan, Alberta, marked a new milestone in their quirky sci-fi history: formal status as the
“Official Star Trek Capital of Canada”.
In early 2010
Vulcan and CBS Consumer Products finalized the terms of a licensing agreement making the small prairie town the first officially recognized Star Trek destination in Canada, and granting it the right to create a unique line of collectible Star Trek/Vulcan souvenir merchandise that will only be available at Vulcan County businesses. “We are very excited about our new status as the Official Star Trek Capital of Canada, and look forward to working with CBS to incorporate even more elements of the Star Trek universe into our community’s public spaces,” said Dayna Dickens, Vulcan’s Tourism Coordinator.
Special events were planned throughout spring 2010 to help celebrate the galactic occasion.
- A special visit from actor Leonard Nimoy, the original Vulcan Mr. Spock on April 23, courtesy of the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo.
- Unveiling a bronze bust of Mr. Spock and Mr. Nimoy’s Live Long and Prosper handprint in downtown Vulcan.
- The launch of an inaugural line of Star Trek collectible souvenir merchandise in the Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station gift shop.
The Town of Vulcan recently gained international fame for its ambitious goal to host the world premiere of the new Star Trek movie, despite not having a movie theatre. The campaign to bring the movie premiere to Vulcan followed in the wake of Vulcan’s long Star Trek history including: 2008’s unveiling of a large Star Trek Memorabilia Collection; opening the Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station – a spacey tourist information centre in 1998; unveiling a 5-tonne replica of the Starship Enterprise in 1995; and the town’s first Star Trek Convention held back in 1993. Tributes to science fiction are everywhere from space murals and alien signage that grace the walls and street corners of this little town on the prairies to a Star Trek grave stone in the local cemetery.
The Town of Vulcan, Alberta, is a “logical” year-round destination for science-fiction enthusiasts and Star Trek fans from across the galaxy.
Star Trek fans and residents of the Town of Vulcan, Alberta in celebrating the town’s new status as “Official Star Trek Capital of Canada”, with a very special close encounter of the Vulcan kind.
On Friday April 23, 2010
Actor Leonard Nimoy, best known for his portrayal of Mr. Spock in the original Star Trek series had visited Vulcan, courtesy of the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo. To mark this historic occasion, town officials have commissioned sculptor Nathan Scott to create a bronze bust of Mr. Spock that will be unveiled by Nimoy during his visit. While in Vulcan, Nimoy will leave behind his iconic “live long and prosper” handprint that will be immortalized in bronze, and will present the Town of Vulcan a unique
item on loan from his personal Star Trek collection, a lithograph of the Original Star Trek cast, autographed by all of the original cast members and will be on display at the Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station.