STAR TREK DAY

Fans across the globe celebrate Star Trek Day on September 8 to remember the timeless legacy Star Trek has made on society and pop culture.

On September 8, 1966, a television series pilot known as Star Trek was introduced on American television. Aiming for an adult audience, this was the was the first time a scientific fiction series would explore morality through scientific narratives. Most movies or television shows would contain science but would often create conflict of suffering and injustice to solve problems. However, Star Trek was different. The series would put actors in the forefront making scientific arguments, while providing peaceful solutions to problems without using violence.

What was the first episode of Star Trek? In a galaxy far, far away “The Man Trap” aired as the pilot episode for Star Trek: The Original Series. Creator Gene Roddenberry’s vision to successfully deliver a storyline of intergalactic drama full of diversity, acceptance and hope became a reality on todays date. Though the series intention was to be a fictional story, Star Trek would become a futuristic franchise, showcasing humans living in harmony with space and Earth.

The Starship Enterprise

The original cast of the Star Trek series was one of the most diverse looking characters ever seen on television at the time. The main crew consisted of:

  • Ship Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner)
  • First Officer and Science Officer Spock (Leonard Nimoy)
  • Chief Medical Officer: Leonard H. “Bones” McCoy (DeForest Kelly)
  • Opening Credits Narrator: William Shatner

Space: the final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its five-year mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before. ~ William Shatner

EARTHING CONTRIBUTIONS

For 57 years, Star Trek has been captivating audiences across the world. Now considered one of the most successful franchise, the legacy of the original series continues to greet millions of fans.

For more information visit the Star Trek Day website.

LIFT OFF

  • Watch the original Star Trek pilot series.
  • Host a Star Trek Marathon with your friends and family.
  • Dress up in your favorite Star Trek character and host a Treki party.
  • Learn Klingon (the official Star Trek language).
  • Find a Star Trek convention and attend.
  • Introduce Star Trek to a new generation.
  • Post your Star Trek moments on social media and tag #StarTrekDay.

For even more Trek Check out the series above.

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR MONTH

International Guitar Month in April inspires the world to strum and pick their way through chords to sweet serenity.

Celebrated each April, is not just a tribute to the instrument itself but a homage to the rich tapestry of music and culture it weaves through our lives. From the resonant depths of classical compositions to the electrifying highs of rock and roll, the guitar has proven to be an incredibly versatile medium for artistic expression. It’s a symbol of rebellion for some, a tool for storytelling for others, and for many, a lifelong companion on a journey of personal growth and discovery. This month offers a moment to reflect on the impact this humble instrument has had on the world, shaping genres, inspiring countless artists, and bringing people together in shared appreciation and love for music.

The evolution of the guitar, from its early ancestors in the 15th century to the modern electric marvels, mirrors the evolution of music itself. Each era brought with it innovations that expanded the instrument’s capabilities, inviting musicians to explore new sounds and techniques. The development of the guitar has been a collaborative effort between craftsmen and artists, a dance between the possibilities of technology and the boundless creativity of the human spirit. International Guitar Month celebrates not only the instrument but also the countless individuals whose passion and innovation have propelled its evolution.

Throughout International Guitar Month, communities around the globe host concerts, workshops, and events aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the guitar. These gatherings are a testament to the instrument’s ability to connect people across diverse backgrounds. Beginners may find themselves strumming their first chords, while seasoned musicians delve into the complexities of composition or the subtleties of a new playing style. The atmosphere is electric with the shared joy of discovery and the palpable sense of belonging to a global family united by the love of guitar music.

As we celebrate, let’s also look forward to the future of guitar music. With advancements in technology and a continuously evolving musical landscape, the possibilities are endless. New genres will emerge, and with them, new ways of playing and experiencing the guitar. This month is a reminder of the guitar’s enduring legacy and a prompt to contribute to its ongoing story. Whether through picking up a guitar for the first time, attending a live concert, or simply exploring a new genre, each of us can play a part in honoring this versatile instrument’s place in our hearts and history.

Whether you play guitar or your talent is in listening, the month is wide open to ways to celebrate. Guitars bring joy whether we play them or listen to the music they produce.

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR MONTH HISTORY

In 1987, GAMA and NAMM founded International Guitar Day to promote retail guitar sales and stores around the world.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #InternationalGuitarMonth

There are several ways to play this month.  Whatever you do, make sure there is a guitar involved.  Use #InternationalGuitarMonth to share on social media.

  • Dust off the Fender and get in tune. See if those old calluses remember how to play.
  • Vynal is back. Visit the local music shop and find your favorite guitar solo.
  • Classical, electric, steel, acoustic, bass, no matter what your style of guitar is, stop by the local guitar shop.  You know you want to.
  • Get a custom guitar tattoo.
  • Write a new song.
  • Go to a concert.
  • Schedule your OWN concert.

NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY

National Science Fiction Day promotes the celebration of science fiction as a genre, its creators, history, and various media, too. On January 2nd annually, millions of science fiction fans across the United States read and watch their favorites in science fiction. 

The date of the celebration commemorates the birth of famed science fiction writer Isaac Asimov.  An American author and Boston University professor of biochemistry, Isaac Asimov was born Isaak Yudovich Ozimov on January 2, 1920. He is best known for his works of science fiction and his popular science books. Isaac Asimov, whose works are followed by many, died on April 6, 1992.

National Science Fiction Day is recognized by the Hallmark Channel and the Scholastic Corporation. 

Considered a master of hard science fiction, Asimov, along with Robert A. Heinlein and Arthur C. Clarke, was considered one of the “Big Three” science-fiction writers during his lifetime. Many regard the Foundation Series as Asimov’s most outstanding piece. His other major series are the Galactic Empire Series and the Robot Series.

Some of the successful television shows recognized by science fiction fans include Star Trek-The Next Generation, The X-Files, Battlestar GalacticaDoctor Who, and The Twilight Zone.

As we look back at some older science fiction in our current technology-infused world, how close do the writers come to imaging our futures? Long before Asimov created his first work, humans imagined machines that allowed them to soar like birds. Another man, Leonardo Di Vinci, looked to the future, too. He designed contraptions worthy of the science fiction in his time.

Science fiction impacts life in ways we may not even consider – even those who don’t enjoy reading or watching science fiction. 

NATIONAL SCIENCE FICTION DAY HISTORY

Since at least 2011, science fiction lovers have been honoring Isaac Asimov and other science fiction contributors. In 2013, asimovs.com published a guest editorial by Ed Finn. The writer talks about doomsday predictions while also looking toward the future – all moving toward the true meaning of National Science Fiction Day. Read the complete article, Celebrate National Science Fiction Day by Learning to Live in the Future.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ScienceFictionDay

The day encourages reading or watching science fiction. However, consider exploring science fiction in other ways. For example:

  • Introduce science fiction to an entirely new generation. Offer to read excerpts from your favorite science fiction author to a youth group at a library. 
  • Explore the authors of science fiction you’ve never read before.
  • Study the history of science fiction and how it has impacted modern culture.
  • Share your favorite science fiction story or character. 

Use #ScienceFictionDay to post on social media.