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By Doug Ballinger Campaign Coordinator & Emissary to Paramount Pictures
(Day 1 – Thursday, August 11, 2005) I arrived at the Las Vegas Hilton. The reason for my trip was to attend the official Star Trek convention, hosted by Creation Entertainment. As campaign coordinator, I had three primary convention tasks:
A. Formally kick off the “Deep Space Nine Television Mini-Series” campaign B. To pass important campaign information to Mr. Avery Brooks C. To make as many personal contacts as possible with an emphasis on developing national (and international) interest in supporting this campaign
After checking in to the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel, I set up shop at a table in the convention vendor’s area. Just about anything that could be purchased was available (collectibles, books, photos, etc.). After setting up my computer campaign presentation (while wearing my new campaign polo shirt provided by our sponsor—Renaissance Promotional Group—I drew several small crowds of interested by passers. I handed out hundreds of campaign flyers, campaign business cards, campaign bumper stickers and campaign magnets. Having brought a sufficient number of petitions, I found myself collecting petitions from those who supported the campaign. There was a lot of territory to cover and I wanted to keep a keen eye out for an opportunity to further promote the DS9 campaign. For the first few days of the conference, I was the lone soldier…successfully managing a campaign table while, at the same time, trying to detect any nuances in this exciting new arena.
Prior to the convention, I had a short discussion with Mr. Gary Berman (Co-CEO of Creation Entertainment, but no relation to Rick Berman). I provided a brief overview of our campaign’s purpose, goals and objectives. Since I represented a Star Trek-related venture, Mr. Berman reaction to the campaign’s efforts was very encouraging. Mr. Berman made a key decision—one that helped propel our campaign days before the convention; he placed our DS9 Television Mini-Series website banner on Creation Entertainment’s website opening page. I cannot begin to tell how many people mentioned seeing our banner on Creation’s website. Creation scored big a second time by allowing me to setup near one of their tables. Mr. Adam Malin (Co-CEO of Creation Entertainment) allowed me to present a campaign briefing along with a pitch for their support. The staff of the DS9 Television Mini-Series campaign sincerely appreciates all they did to help along the way.
Having made contact with the heads of Creation Entertainment, I noticed the crowds were thinning in the vendor’s area (obviously, something big was about to occur). After deciding to close shop for the day, I saw that John de Lancie (Q) was about to go on stage in the auditorium (LeVar Burton was on stage while I was manning the campaign table). But before I could rush off, I was asked to help collect and organize various items to be sold at a “no minimum bid” auction to be held immediately following Mr. de Lancie’s talk.
I loaded several items on a cart and helped a vendor push the items behind the main stage—the same stage where John de Lancie was speaking. As we made our way through the narrow corridor, who would walk past but LeVar Burton himself? I had but a moment to speak to him as he passed. In that split second, I was able to thank him for all he did for not only Star Trek, but for things like helping children learn to read through “Reading Rainbow.” LeVar’s response was indicative of his character; he simply said to me, “No, thank you!” and off he went for his autograph session.
After de Lancie’s talk (watching him as I stood directly behind the stage curtains was a neat experience), I helped place several tables and auction items on the stage, and then headed back to my room for a breather (and a late lunch). The auction, by the way, was a huge success having sold a great many collectibles. A bit later in the evening, I had the opportunity to meet Corbin Bernsen. He sat next to his assistant, feverishly signing autographs under the hot area lamps. Mr. Bernsen was very polite star and graciously signed my convention program “The Real Q—Corbin Bernsen.”
My dinner reservations were set for the evening—I would attend the night party in Quark’s Bar at STAR TREK: THE EXPERIENCE. The only way I can accurately describe this event is to use two words: electrified and star access (ok, so that was three words). After a feast (I’m not kidding, there was a ton of food to eat), I stood close to the stage where Max Grodenchik (Rom/Grand Nagus), Chase Masterson (Leeta), and Lolita Fatjo performed several numbers. It was a grand experience and everyone I spoke with had a good time. Later in the evening, I saw a U.S. Service member (in uniform) speaking with Max Grodenchik. Since I was a U.S. service member, I approached and politely joined the discussion. Shortly thereafter, Max and I were all alone at a table in Quark’s. I took this opportunity to explain a bit about our campaign, how it was organized and our goals and objectives. Max gave me his undivided attention and asked several questions about the campaign. In total, we talked for twenty minutes before he returned to the stage for another number with Chase Masterson and Vaughn Armstrong. In this short span of time, Max had internalized this idea of making a television mini-series. There were obvious challenges to realizing the campaign goals. But challenges aside, I left Max feeling more confident and motivated to pursue additional “star” contacts. Things were developing quite nicely.
(Day 2) I made an early start by setting up the campaign table and speaking with several nearby vendors. Shortly thereafter, I spoke at length with another Trekkie, still grieving from the cancellation of Enterprise. Since I lived in Tokyo, Japan when Enterprise premiered, I was (admittedly) out of touch with the series…and the powerful impact it had on new and old Star Trek fans around the world. As interested individuals signed campaign petitions and helped themselves to campaign bumper stickers and campaign flyers, I found myself focused on something other than the campaign--I was listening intensely to a man dealing with a great deal of frustration and sadness. He needed an ear and I gave it to him. The passion with which this man conveyed the aftermath of Paramount’s decision to cancel the series caused others to stop and listen. It has always been my intent to help take the campaign “concept” to reality. I can speak for our entire staff when I say that what we do is for you and Star Trek fans everywhere.
I worked the floor a bit and made a few more contacts (artists, writers and product promoters). I missed Kate Mulgrew (Capt Janeway), Max Grodenchik and Chase Masterson on stage (darn the luck!), but was seated on time for Michael Dorn (Worf) and Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi). Incidentally, I ran into Marina Sirtis several times during the convention. She always had a smile on her face and she was always in a hurry. Marina was the consummate host to a large audience of adoring fans. She did a fantastic job of thanking and acknowledging the power of Star Trek fans. Michael Dorn came on stage looking more fit and trim than ever—he was a shadow of his former self and was very glad to be “all muscle.” A question was asked from the audience about Worf’s future. Would we (the fans) see Dorn again in another Star Trek movie? To my disbelief, Dorn shook his head and said, “No.” Marina wore an interesting expression, one that indicated there was more to his answer than he cared to reveal. Marina then said, “So, Worf is dead.” Michael replied immediately, “Worf is not dead” then went on about a different issue. I was about to get in line for Marina and Michael’s autographs. My original intent was to ask Dorn about his interest in appearing in another Star Trek production. Judging by the size of Michael Dorn (the previous exchange about Worf’s cinematic future notwithstanding), my question seemed inappropriate…and very poorly timed. Once in line (a mere four people away from Michael and Marina who were seated at a table signing autographs), I puzzled as to my next move. Should I ask for an autograph and politely move on or should I reengage about Worf’s future?
The security guard motioned for me to take my place…now second in line. Michael and Marina smiled politely as each fan presented various articles for their signature. I reached into my briefcase and retrieved one of our campaign polo shirts. As I did this, I looked up and found myself staring into the lovely and mysterious eyes of Marina Sirtis. Marina’s greeting was as pleasant as it was calming. I quickly told her about our campaign and asked her to sign my shirt. She asked who else would sign it. My reply was “Avery Brooks.” Marina quickly settled on a different place for her signature, reserving her first choice for Avery Brooks. Now I was face-to-face with Michael Dorn. I went for it. “Mr. Dorn,” I began “I just heard you tell hundreds of people that you would not do another Star Trek movie. Is this true? Would you consider doing another movie or a television mini-series?” Dorn smiled and without hesitation he said to me, “Of course I would.” I briefly explained the purpose of our campaign and he signed the shirt. Success—the first of several missions accomplished! Now, it was back to the vendor’s area.
Once back at the campaign table, I resumed my task of spreading the word about the campaign. A gentleman approached and asked a few questions about the campaign. I quickly realized this guy knew his Trek trivia. It was getting late so I close shop. Our conversation shifted to the duties and responsibilities of a state campaign coordinator. This was the first serious inquiry about this position—was this individual interested in managing the campaign effort for an entire state?
I asked the man his name. He replied, “Scott Wilbur. I’m from Nevada, not too far away from the Vegas Hilton.” Opportunity, positive thinking and hard work collaborated in that moment—we had our state campaign coordinator for Nevada. Scott commented on the quality of my campaign shirt. I took a couple extra polo shirts with me and gave one to Scott (who wore it proudly). In no time, both of us were walking billboards with the words JOIN THE “MAKE A DEEP SPACE NINE TELEVISION MINI-SERIES” CAMPAIGN conspicuously screened on the back of our shirts. As Scott and I talked, a reporter approached me from the newspaper “ConNotations.” He got my attention abruptly and wore a very serious expression. He asked this question rather directly, “Are you serious?” My reply, “Excuse me?” The gentleman clarified, “Are you for real about bringing Deep Space Nine back to television as a mini-series…are you for real?” I was honored by the query and intrigued by the man’s serious nature. “Of course I’m serious” was my reply. I explained what “Operation: Paramount” was about and my purpose being at the Star Trek convention. In short order, I had gained another ally. The gentleman gave me some contact information and asked if I would do an article for their paper. I agreed to do the article (ConNotations has an audience of 6,000 subscribers).
Scott Wilbur and I got a bite to eat at Quark’s (a great meal by the way). We discussed campaign philosophy and strategy. Scott also knew quite a bit about Paramount’s CEO, Brad Grey. Having spent time living in California, Scott expressed an interest in also filling the role of campaign staff Director of Intelligence. After discussing Scott’s qualifications with campaign director, Gisele La Roche, she approved Scott to run our intelligence efforts. A short time later, I had a pleasant discussion with Ms. Audra Coulthurst. As I explained our campaign purpose and objectives, Audra expressed an interest in taking the position as Director of Administration (administration is Audra’s field of expertise). I short time later, Ms. La Roche approved our new Director of Administration.
(Day 3) I had the great fortune of speaking to Max Grodenchik again. Max signed a photo for me—the caption reads: “To Doug, Thanks for bringing back DS9!” So if it wasn’t clear that Max supported the campaign, his words made his intentions very clear—Max was on board with our bold initiative. A short time later, I had a lengthy discussion with Chase Masterson. Chase was extremely warm and completely receptive to the idea of a DS9 television mini-series. Having seen Chase and Max on stage earlier, I was sure they’d talk about the campaign. I asked Chase to sign my campaign shirt, which she did without hesitation. I told Chase that I had a few ideas for the television mini-series…ideas Max showed interest in. I asked Chase to get Max’s opinion of the things I proposed regarding the television mini-series. Again, I received nothing but support and encouragement from Chase. Incidentally, I was able to see Chase’s compassionate side. Prior to speaking with her, I watched as a young man in a wheelchair asked for Chase’s autograph. The line for her autograph was long, and as you can imagine, fans like to keep the line moving. Chase stepped from behind her table and talked with the gentleman face-to-face. Chase answered his questions and was so kind. That moment touched my heart and reminded me of the best qualities that are in each of us.
I returned to campaign business, but cut short my efforts to catch Eugene Roddenberry who was about to appear on stage. As Eugene addressed the crowd, I can’t help but remember just how humble he was. Completely dedicated and focused on continuing his father’s work, he discussed some of his future goals and did so quite eloquently. Later, I discussed the campaign with several members of Roddenberry.com. The campaign drew their interest and opened new opportunities to discuss campaign goals and objectives.
Penny Johnson Jerald followed Eugene. She talked a great deal about her entry into the Star Trek universe and about some of the other things she was doing on television. During the question & answer session, I approached the microphone and politely addressed this lovely woman as “Ma’am.” Wow, what a reaction that intro drew! Penny paused for what seemed like an eternity and said to the audience “Did he just call me Ma’am?” Needless to say, I took some ribbing. Penny thought I was addressing her as “an older woman” and told the audience that she saw herself as a “hot mama”—the audience agreed. I explained that I was in the military and was being polite. Penny opened her arms and expressed her sincere appreciation for the military and what we do all over the world. I thanked her and told her that she was indeed a “hot mama” (the crowd loved that too). A short time later, Penny’s husband and I had a short exchange and I was able to give him some campaign information.
Afterwards, I headed off to the Deep Space Nine Luncheon at Behihana’s Restaurant. While we all waited to be seated, I took the opportunity to hand out campaign business cards and campaign bumper stickers. Our meals were served and we were now in the company of some of the great ones: Nana Visitor, James Darren, Penny Johnson Jerald, Casey Biggs, and Jeffrey Combs. Each one took a turn at the tables and was available to answer questions and take photos. We got the chance to find out what the actors were doing, how they were doing and what types of things they wanted to do in the future. Penny Johnson Jerald loved the idea of our campaign and was definitely interested in what I was doing. I did not get a chance to speak to Nana Visitor about the campaign, but I knew I’d see her again on Sunday for the DS9 Luncheon.
It was time for Avery Brooks’ photo op. There was a reported 750 people who purchased a photo with Avery Brooks. I got in line early and took a photo with Avery. Seizing an opportunity, I gave Mr. Brooks my last campaign polo shirt. He accepted it graciously and I took my seat for Avery’s stage appearance. The auditorium was packed (more so than I had seem the entire convention)—then Avery Brooks appeared. The crowd erupted in applause. It was so overwhelming that it caused Avery to say on several occasions, “I must do this more often.” Suffice it to say that the fans were incredibly complimentary of Brooks’ work on and off screen. Brooks electrified the audience with his engaging manner. People began to line up at the microphones before Brooks finished speaking. When a very young girl appeared at one of the microphones dressed in a Starfleet uniform, it was apparent that she melted Brooks’ heart. He invited her on stage and gave her his chair. The girl, probably 7 or 8 years old said, "I have a question to say: What's the best thing you know being an actor is?" Brooks replied, "The best thing about being an actor…is a moment like this when I meet you.” The room erupted with applause and Brooks playfully chased the little girl off the stage. His speech now complete, Brooks proceeded to the signing table. I stood in line and prepared the package I intended to give him: a campaign letter from Gisele La Roche, a campaign flyer, a copy of the campaign presentation and the petition we’re using to make our point to Paramount. Mr. Brooks received the packet quite graciously, and then signed a photo for my sons and the campaign polo (the one signed by Michael Dorn and Marina Sirtis earlier). With my primary mission accomplished, it was time for some rest and relaxation. It was time for the Star Trek Concert.
The main auditorium was packed. On stage were members of the Las Vegas Philharmonic Orchestra. The musicians tuned their instruments while a few people searched for their seats. As conductor Richard McGee appeared, the room was filled with applause. The concert began with “Alexander Courage: Menagerie Suite” and covered every piece from every major motion picture and television series. My two personal favorites were the Voyager Theme and the Deep Space Nine Suite that was conducted by Jerry Goldsmith. What an incredible evening! Following the concert, a group of hundreds of Trekkies socialized at an ice cream social where James Darren and Chase Masterson sang the night away. I was exhausted—what a series of very power events! It was late and time to turn in for the night.
(Day 4) It was the final day of the convention. Scott Wilbur tipped me off that the DS9 Luncheon was (in his opinion) the highlight of any Star Trek Convention. I stood in line and waited for Scott. I passed the time doing the usual: handing out business cards and campaign information. Scott arrived and told me that he had given campaign literature to Vaughn Armstrong, Casey Biggs and Armin Shimerman and had a pleasant conversation with Max Grodenchik.
Scott was making the campaign a lot of money by contacting some of the stars that I missed earlier. I was finally able to speak with Nana Visitor about the campaign—she was excited! She held my hand throughout the conversation. Her grip was strong. She was as excited about the project as I was…and she wasn’t letting go of my hand! I quickly explained that we were raising a million petitions to bring her and the rest of the DS9 cast back to television in a mini-series. Nana nodded her head, grinning from ear to ear. We concluded our chat and she turned toward another table. After a step or two, she spun around and said, “And ya know what? If we get the mini-series…I’d be the captain.” If there ever was a moment where I needed a medic that was it!
I left the brunch early since I was scheduled for work early on Monday (I just missed the chance to speak with Rene Auberjonois who was sitting at a nearby table). Unfortunately, I was also unable to hear Patrick Stewart, William Shatner, Brent Spiner and Robert Beltran…all whom were scheduled to speak on the final night of the convention. Well, there’s always next year when Star Trek celebrates its 40th year anniversary. That will be an event to behold!
To summarize, I was able to accomplish every task and made a positive mark for the DS9 Mini-Series campaign. I was also able to make some international contacts (people with whom I hope to discuss expanding the campaign in the near future). The actors I spoke with want to work—it’s what they do. My hope is that by reading this brief summery of events, Star Trek fans around the world will join our campaign. We deserve the mini-series. We can make it happen.
Well, here’s to the start of a successful
campaign. Over the course of three days, I met hundreds of people,
many Star Trek stars and made friendships that will last a
lifetime. If you have questions or comments, please email me at
dougballinger@aol.com.
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