In what is to be her final public appearances before retirement, “Star Trek” actress Nichelle Nichols will be in Huron, Ohio, on Sept. 10-12, 2021.
Nichols will meet with fans for autographs, photos and other activities during her trip to Northwest Ohio to officially christen the headquarters of the International Federation of Trekkers on Cleveland Road in Huron.
The Federation is the only Star Trek fan club founded with the approval of series creator Gene Roddenberry. After 36 years of service, the organization moved into its new headquarters facilities in fall of 2020. Fans, donors, volunteers and tourists are welcome to visit the new facility.
“The new facility is the culmination of a dream. It is a testament to the selfless work and gifts of our volunteers and donors over these many years,” mentioned Russ Haslage, cofounder of The Federation. “And there is nothing more fitting than to have my long-time friend and ‘adopted’ showbiz mom here to officially christen the location.”
In a career spanning seven decades, Nichols has been a singer, dancer and actress on stage, television and movies, but is best known in her groundbreaking role as Lt. Uhura, the communications officer on the U.S.S. Enterprise in Star Trek, the original series, and six subsequent movies.
While at Federation headquarters, Nichols will sign autographs and pose for photos with fans in the replica of Captain James T. Kirk’s chair on the Enterprise bridge. An opportunity to have dinner with Nichols is also available. All proceeds from the meet-and-greet will benefit Nichols’ retirement fund.
The Federation was founded in 1984 by fan Russ Haslage and Gene Roddenberry, the creator of the show. Its mission is to maintain shared interest in the Star Trek universe and, in keeping with the mission of the United Federation of Planets, to help others.
The Federation has more than 30 chapters with a total of more than 2,100 members, with charitable works including the funding of local museums, offering food, clothes and school supplies to local children, feeding the homeless and much more including even a mission in Zimbabwe.
The organization’s new world headquarters facility features a visitor’s center, gift shop and much more. It is open to fans and visitors and can be found at 501 Cleveland Road West, in Huron, Ohio. Their website can be found at trekfederation.com and you can call 877-365-TREK (8735) for more information.
The Federation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible.
