Celebrate five years with one last gesture: Introducing The “Ambergrams”
So here we are, drawing either too quickly or not quickly enough (depending on which second you ask) towards the beginning of the end.
What an incredible ride it’s been.
Thinking back on my own experiences over the last few years, just trying to figure out how to express how proud I am of Fringe and its mighty fandom, I’m all goosebumpy again. We’ve done so many amazing things. We searched for Peter Bishop in every corner of the globe. We defied security and raised our White Tulips at Comic Con. We created our own awards when the show wasn’t receiving the official recognition we felt it deserved. We made fan videos, and hashtag campaigns, and a Twitter bot, and most importantly, friends. So many good friends we had our own convention, and those who couldn’t make it were with us in spirit.
Fringe started out as “just” a great show. We watched every week, chatting excitedly in a hundred separate communities about each episode. But then ratings began to decline, and when they did there were uneasy mutterings. As the numbers continued to fall, the muttering turned into a rumbling, like thunder heard from the universe next door. The sound grew louder, the ripples got wider, the voices rose and merged until they felt a lot like this:
Only it wasn’t “the voice of Yes; the voice of White; the voice of Always,” it was the voice of NO; the voice of Not this time; the voice of Not our show.¹
So we fought. We rallied and tweeted and posted and improvised and surprised ourselves with what we turned out to be capable of. We drew a map that others are now following, carving brand new pathways out of the dusty old stone of traditional sampling methods. And we won. We’ve won that rarest of gifts, a real and thoughtful ending to the story we love so much. So many shows don’t get that. Most of them don’t.
My greatest hope is that maybe we’ve begun to change that. Maybe the doors we opened will stay ajar, and networks will work a little harder to find new ways of tracking viewership. It would be a noble legacy, and Fringe deserves nothing less. But legacy or no, the thing I’m proudest of is that single unified voice, because in a way it did turn out to be the voice of Yes. It was thousands of voices raised into a single harmonic blast of hope that’s still reverberating off the walls of the internet.
I’m so proud of that. So very proud of us.²
I’m doing that florid thing again, but I won’t apologize because you guys know; it’s Fringe. I will get to the point however, because believe it or not there is one beyond “Fringies and Fringe are awesome!!!”
Ari if you’re reading, you should stop now. These are not the fans you’re looking for. Move along. ;p
The point of this overly emotional recap is that we have one final ³ spectacular mission for you. We’ve set the bar incredibly high, but Fringe and its creators deserve nothing less from us than one last grand gesture. We’re going out in a blaze of glory, completing our journey into the history books in a manner befitting our fandom and our show. And if you missed the Blue Moon Awards, you really want to get in on this.
We’re doing it again. Not awards exactly, more like parting gifts. Only this time, we want to send every single person involved in the making of Fringe home with something tangible to hold onto, to remind them that once, they worked on a hell of a show, and the work they did changed the lives of millions of people.
Introducing, Operation Ambergram (working title I just now made up). It goes like this:
Once again the major players will be receiving “award” style thank you gifts. These will be an engraved slab of “amber” (not really, but it it looks very like it. Turns out real amber is expensive, which makes sense I guess ’cause it’s millions of years old.) Engraved on the slabs will be the white tulip symbol and a message of thanks, something like this:
However this time, every current crew member, and as many past crew members as we can find, will also be receiving a small gift. We’re not sure yet what that’ll be – we need to get a couple of different product quotes first – but each one will be accompanied by a card thanking them for everything they’ve given us over the last five years.
We still have some stuff to figure out. We need quotes, and a crowdsourced funding solution, and we need to figure out what exactly will be engraved on the slabs, and printed on the cards. But we wanted to get the word out now because we’re on a tight timeline here – we want to have them delivered before filming ends (don’tthinkaboutitdon’tthinkaboutit) in November and everyone scatters to the four winds.
Our current list of “amber” recipients includes:
Joshua Jackson, John Noble, Anna Torv, Jasika Nicole, Blair Brown, Lance Reddick, Seth Gabel, Georgina Haig, Joel Wyman, Jeff Pinkner, Ari Margolis, Michael Cerveris, Chris Tilton, Kirk Acevedo, Akiva Goldsman, Roberto Orci, Alex Kurtzman, J.J. Abrams, Leonard Nimoy, and Bart Montgomery.
It may seem odd at first to use amber as a medium for our final gift given its context in the show. We looked at lots of different ideas for this project, and settled on amber for a few different reasons:
- Things trapped in Amber will always remain as they are, never fading – like our memories of Fringe and these wonderful years we’ve spent together.
- Amber has a long history of use in many cultures for it’s reputed healing properties. It also appears in a number or myths as the hardened tears of various gods. We’ll all have tears, and need some healing come January.
- The ancient Greeks noticed that amber attracted small objects when rubbed with fur. Both electron and electricity are derived from the Latin ēlectrum, which in turn came from the Greek word for amber, ήλεκτρον (ēlektron).
- And my personal favorite: between the two of them, the white tulip and the amber have become symbols of Fringe’s greatest hope and its greatest despair. Combining the two is an elegant reminder that even after the show’s final episode, it’s always up to us to choose which we believe in. Fringe taught us that.
That’s the gist of it. We’ll keep you updated with more information as we get it, and we’ll try and have donations open by the end of the week. We’ll be brainstorming on what these things should say and probably be putting up a poll or two, so watch this space. We’ll most likely be accepting letters and artwork again if you guys want to send them, although @runpaceyrun is currently in Vancouver collecting some of those things already, and I know of at least one other group doing the same. As with the BMA’s, any leftover funds will go to charity; we have a few candidates we’re discussing, including support of the arts (Josh’s preference), Autism (because the BMA donation was teeny), and Alzheimer’s research (because of the whole memory theme, and its heartbreakingly accurate depiction in And Those We’ve Left Behind). If we raise enough we might split the difference, so be as generous as you can. As always, we welcome comments or questions, just poke a Fringenuity member on Twitter.
It has been the honor of a lifetime to know you guys, and to work with every one of you. Let’s be magnificent one more time.
I’m in!!! Fantastic idea, beautifully articulated (as usual!). The pleasure and honor of being a part of this fandom is all mine.
Thanks Donna. :blush:
It is a very fine thing to be a Fringie. 😀
I love what you have accomplished for this show and am super excited to be a part of the grand finale gesture!! Such awesome work you folks!!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂
“You?” “We” my friend! Fans around the world working together, that’s the story of Fringe. It was all of us!
But thanks. 😉
this is a fantastic idea, i’ll definitely be a part of it! i never had a chance to be a part of the blue moon awards
I find the Fringe fandom after the fantastic blue moon awards, or the Where is Peter Bishop video and thought It will be great to participate in something like that. Thanks to your imagination I will be able to be part of it. So, I’m here (in Barcelona, Spain, very far away from you) but count on me to help in any way you need.
If you missed the last time, here’s an even more ambititious opportunity to show your Fringe appreciation: http://t.co/2tPFq4Bh
A great idea indeed. I’m in for sure! I missed out on the Blue Moon Awards; not this time.
I’ll see what I can do to help! I’ll think of quotes and stuff, I’ll try to help in any way I can 🙂
I’m DEFINITELY in!!! I think once again, its perfect and I too, will be a lifetime Fringie! 🙂
of course I’m in, can’t wait!
@TheGambit19 Oh! Lol, no I was referring to this http://t.co/mPnRIKvw , the modified tulip pic and accompanying quote. 😉
Of course, I’m in! I was lucky enough to get in at the very end of BMA, and it was an amazing feeling see the pictures of the cast with their awards, and seeing the crew’s award on set.
These folks, from Joel & Jeff, down to the last PA, have given us an amazing gift of their talent, their energy, their hearts and imaginations. They’ve given us stories and ideas that will last as long as amber in our hearts. To get the chance to give back even a little – is an honor and a pleasure.
Sign me up!
I’m in!!! Love Fringe very very very much.
I have the chance of watching Fringe and it’s really a good show. But due to some home issues, I wasn’t able to continue viewing it. I can say that the thrill is awesome!
Wonderful idea!
May I suggest something like indiegogo to use as fundraising? Since this is about the community, there should be a poll that would rank what the inscriptions should be.
Gosh I am so pleased and frankly- flabbergasted to be part of a group of people like this! I love every one of you!
This is a really good idea!
Turns out it’s cheaper to just use PayPal, and the account was already set up, so… 😉
As far as polls on inscriptions – I’ll set one up very soon, after my charity event next weekend I promise. I’ll also be setting one up on charity recipients, but first I have to survive through the end of the month. xD
great idea, I’m in.
I’m in.
awesome idea, im in!
All #Fringe fans: You must read! http://t.co/H8Rn8fuF
Even though I’ve only been in this fandom for about 4 months now, I’m in with whatever I can contribute! I’m poor so I can’t donate money. So whatever else. (also, I think you should donate the leftovers to autism but that’s because I have autism)
Ideas are always needed, Jack. We have a forum set up to let fans give our thoughts about what to say and other ideas. Everything helps. We are also more than glad to collect letters and artwork to send as well. 🙂
Fringe fans are definitely loyal and unique. I have loved this show since day one and will keep loving it after season 5. I would love to contribute to this idea. Keep us informed of any progress and if there is anything we could help with!
Fringies, read this and spread the word 🙂 http://t.co/ctYIS4l2 #FRINGE
What happened to having Kirk as one of the main recipients?
There was some discussion, but we were not certain for various reasons. That may change.
I’m In. I also missed the Blue Moon Awards but Not this time… South Africa LOVES FRINGE FOREVER!!!- always S.AFringie
birdandbear, how long are the donations open?
Ummm. We haven’t decided that yet…
We’ll need to order the gifts by mid-October to make sure they get there in time, but I don’t see why donations couldn’t stay open a little longer than that. We’d just need to be able to make the donation(s) before filming wraps (*sob*) sometime in November.
I’m totally in!
It’s sad, but for all of these years of Fringe, I only found this community around this month =/
I don’t know if a made the right thing, but I give a idea in that forum entitled Brainstorming… I don’t know if I can post there or if there is just to the administers post… I’m sorry, anyway.
But, well… I wanna help you, guys. Fringe means a lot to me and I’d love to participate a huge thing like this project. I’m from Brazil and I think that it’s almost impossible that one day I’ll meet even one of this incredible guys that make this show (the cast and the crew) and can say thanks for them, so I think participate of this will be a way for do it.
Fringe fandom is amazing!
Hi there!
You did it exactly right, that’s what the forums are for! These gifts are going to be from all of us, and we want input from anyone who has something to say. 😀
Where do I start? I am glad that I had the chance to meet you guys and now be part of this awesome family! Lets make this show to be remembered for ages!
Project Ambergram, are you in? http://t.co/OXsplhTl Donations are open! #HappyAnniversaryFringe
Celebrating Five Years of Fringe http://t.co/DwKsom1t
Annie – awesome idea! I know we discussed it at TFE. Let me know what you need, I’m there!
Fans are celebrating five seasons of Fringe with something really cool. Read about it and how to become involved: http://t.co/2tPFq4Bh
love love love love this idea :”’) I will contribute with everything that I can :”’)
OMG I am crying. I support u guys all the way! Let’s make the last ride as memorable as we can. Argentina is present 🙂
Fringe fans have seen & accomplished the impossible. Show thanks for the memories by taking part in something special: http://t.co/2tPFq4Bh
All #Fringe fans please read! And help if you can! http://t.co/Dnx76QCI
@GSMPodcasts @Fringenuity – Operation Ambergram – Would you consider talking about this in your podcast? http://t.co/rw2voVWv
I was just thinking about Leonard Nimoy. We don’t know if he will be back but I thought it would be cool to include him. After all Bell is sort of responsible for the mess being created 🙂 But if not that’s ok too.
#Fringe fans have seen & accomplished the impossible. Show thanks for the memories by taking part in something special: http://t.co/Fd0msBK3
Please please please include Leonard Nimoy. William Bell has been a big part of this, and I would love to see him be recognized for that!
You’re absolutely right! I went to add some others that we decided to include, and I knew I was forgetting someone – thanks!
William Bell is certainly a character to be recognized and Leonard Nimoy’s performances in that role have been terrific.
Attn #Fringe fans: Would you like to say thank you to those who made the show possible? You can. http://t.co/WmwUaG2b
Have loved Fringe since the moment it began way back in 2008..I still remember the excited Fringe chat i had with my friends the week we all spent in Orlando for my wedding. I’ll never forget you Fringe. Have loved being a part of the Fringdom and only discovered it in january’12 has made Fringe Fridays all the more special….will support this last final goodbye and thank you in any way i can
That is an incredibly moving and lovely idea. I just donated, but I wish it could be more. I can’t believe I haven’t been here in so long I almost missed this.
I heard about your website from the GSM Fringe Podcast. I’ve just had a bit of luck in having my name chosen as a case study in the September’s Notebook competition, so giving a little back in the form of a donation was the least I could do to appease the karma observers.
I definitely want to be a part of this. It is such an amazing idea.
i’m all emotions after reading this http://t.co/9epkUWck yeah
Just made a donation. I wish that it could be more, but I am glad that we could be involved!
@anttemm @asecretsmile Yeah and there’s more coming… thanks to @Fringenuity All Fringies can be a part of this: http://t.co/DLDyzwaY
Project Ambergram… are you in? http://t.co/Kj7NMito #Fringe
oh this is so great! Amazing idea! I’m definitely donating! 😀
Just made a donation! I’m in 🙂
Want to see yet #AnotherWay Fringe fans kick ass? Check out the “Ambergram” Project – Please RT!! http://t.co/mPnRIKvw
The “amber” looks really authentic. This is a great idea!
Here’s #AnotherWay Fringe fans rock, check out the “Ambergram” project! http://t.co/m0ULsXlt http://t.co/ESCnHxVh #GetGlue #fringe
#AnotherWay to thank the Fringe cast and crew for all their hard work… Project Ambergram… are you in? http://t.co/OXsplhTl
This is an Awesome idea,i am definitely in!!!!!!!!
Hv u seen this? If u haven’t…do read it n RT…spread the news around. Let Fringe get wat it deserves! 😉 http://t.co/ZQT120HU #AnotherWay
hi! I’ll like to make my donation but I dont know how.. would you please give me the lick or the account, Take in consideration: I’m an international fringie:
Cristina
Hi Cristina,
You can either use the donate button on the top right of the home page, or just follow this link: http://bit.ly/Qel1Sk
Thanks!! 😀
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What about Ambergrams for other important “guests” that were emotionally important to the story? Andre Royo, Kevin Corrigan, Jared Harris, Sebasian Roche, Orla Brady, Lily Pibald, Ari Graynor, Mark Valley and Ryan Mcdonald? We may not agree on all of them, but most them touched us along the way. I’ll certainly donate to help.
Hey Ellen!
We’re going to be sending challenge coins and thank you cards to as many of those people as possible, it’s just a matter of tracking down the addresses to send them to. 🙂
Looks great, count me in!
amazing project! 🙂 i’ve just donated! 🙂
hey fringies 🙂 please donate to the operation “ambergram”, if u can: http://t.co/AaKh9gHB let’s celebrate five years of #Fringe! <3
Become a participant in the @Fringenuity Ambergram campaign.
http://t.co/lxIKmPo1
Amazing work always deserves recognition. Project Ambergram: http://t.co/Kj7NMito #Fringe
#ForTheRecord, Project Ambergram is underway! We’ll be putting up a deadline soon, so get involved! http://t.co/2tPFq4Bh
Hell yeah im in 🙂 without a doubt, all the way
I just donated, sorry it’s so late! Great idea, and happy that we can do something for all of them.
@RalphGarman Since I know you love Fringe, check out this article! And please share! http://t.co/xIKWbyH3
This is a great idea. Just donated. I hope we reach our goal, and are able to give the cast and crew something a good thank you from all of us.
http://t.co/lyU7Vwcr #Fringe
Donation given! Hope this will be as fantastic as it sounds 🙂
So glad I am able to be a part of this, since I totally missed out on the BMAs. Such a wonderful idea!
I’m in too. A more deserving group of people never existed, in this or any other universe.
I finally got round to donating! #Ambergrams @Fringenuity #ProudToBeAFringie http://t.co/eRuc9F6c
Pingback:Fringe Twitter Event 10/26/12 : We’ve Reached a (#)Turning Point | more than one of everything
I recently noticed something on the roster of those to receive the Ambergrams. As cool as it is that we’re making this happen, may I ask why Jared Harris isn’t on the list to get one? He’s been a huge part of Fringe, despite the fact that he’s only been in a handful of episodes.
Jared will be receiving a coin. 🙂
Yay! @Fringenuity reached their goal for the Ambergrams. But you can still donate.http://t.co/9kJEbgcg. #Fringe
I was away for a while but now I’ve finally donated! Congratulations also on achieving the original goal!
Still time to donate to Project Ambergram! Donations close 31 Oct. http://t.co/Kj7NMito #FringeFriday
Is it really closed? Because I just got a conformation mail after I donated money just now.. Does this then mean it will not go through with it or what is going to happen?
We extended the donations until November 18th. 🙂
If you don’t know about it — http://t.co/2tPFq4Bh You can make a donation by the end of this week. A Paypal button is on page’s right side.
Fact: I am very happy and proud to be a fellow Fringe fan. With the fate of Community hanging precariously in the balance, the one thing that comforts me is the friendship and generosity of the Community fans, cast, and crew. It’s very obvious to me that these friendships and the love between people are more important than the networks, money, ratings, or even the imminent series end of a show. You set the benchmark for people everywhere, not just who love Fringe, but who love anything or anyone. Thank you for your friendship, Fringies.
@FringeFiles Info about the Ambergrams can be found here: http://t.co/C4fNq5Mu And I promise I will send my DM for your project soon. 😀
Ari tweeted his. Did everyone else get theirs as well?