Beam Me Up Scotty ... One Last Time, the convention to honor Star Trek hero James Doohan, has some important news regarding the events planned for the weekend of August 28-30.

Recently added to the program is George Takei, which now means the entire living original Star Trek cast will be on stage on that Sunday. Also featured over the weekend will be a panel of authors, including Margaret Wander Bonanno, David R. George III and Rick Sternbach.

Also, anyone who reckons they can affect a nice Scottish brogue is invited to take part in the "Sounds Like a Chief Engineer" contest. It doesn't stop there, though, as a Scotty lookalike contest is also on the cards. All this, plus more information on other special guests, can be found at the Planet Xpo site.

And finally, another fan talks about his Jimmy Doohan experience:

Mr. Doohan,

I am sorry to hear that you are making your last convention appearance but at the same time knowing what you have done over the years for these shows makes me think you have earned a rest :-). I never got the opportunity to meet you face to face but I have watched you all my life (I'm 31). Back in '96 you were set to make an appearance at a local convention in nearby Greensboro, North Carolina, but had to cancel due to your being ill. I was disappointed but at the same time concerned for your well-being. It didn't really bother me that you weren't able to attend as any sane person would put their health above anything else. The people running the convention took names of all the people who wanted an autographed photo signed by you that would be mailed when you were able to do so. I've been to a lot of similar functions that people were not able to attend for whatever reason and being told the same thing with no results, so I never really expected this to happen. Much to my great delight the photo did come to my mailbox that time! You are a class act.
 
Mr. Doohan, you do respect your fans as much as they appreciate you. Star Trek has always been a guilty pleasure of mine and what you have done for me growing up and still do today as I watch is phenomenal. Thank you for everything and I wish you nothing but peace and happiness all your days!
                                    
Mike Bunn
Mount Airy, NC