Dealing with Stable, Nuclear Fusion (aka, THE SUN)

This past weekend, I donned the armor for an event that was outside, right in the sun. It's a nice change from all the cold weather that Vermont gets, and with a nice breeze, it was the perfect day for walking around in armor, talking to kids and parents.
About halfway through the event, however, the wind died down a bit, and the temperature went up - I'm guessing we hit the 70s or 80s. Very nice if you're in shorts and t-shirts, but not so much wearing a black flight suit, diver's head cover and 30 some-odd pieces of plastic that do wonders to trap in body heat. Fortunately, a vendor donated some ice drinks, which we took on a break, and I brought along a water bottle.

As summer's coming, it seems like a good time to look at this. Summer's coming, and from my events list, we're getting a ton of events in the next couple of months, if April and May are any indication. Summer's a great time for events, but it's also something to keep in mind - higher temperatures lead to higher body temperatures, especially with a lot of physical activity, which can lead to serious health consequences, sometimes even fatal. That, to say the least, isn't good.

When I was in the Boy Scouts, and later as a summer camp instructor and lifeguard, I learned a lot about this sort of thing, and how to treat it. Mainly, the biggest things to be concerned with are Dehydration, Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke. These are things that are easily preventable, with the proper preparations.

dehydration
1. the act or process of dehydrating.
2. an abnormal loss of water from the body, esp. from illness or physical exertion.

Basically, you're losing more water than you take in. Symptoms include headaches, lower BP, dizziness or fainting. Standing up suddenly can bring on some of these things.

heat exhaustion (Hyperthermia)
1. a condition characterized by faintness, rapid pulse, nausea, profuse sweating, cool skin, and collapse, caused by prolonged exposure to heat accompanied by loss of adequate fluid and salt from the body.

This is the serious stage, as you do not have enough water, and your body works overtime to try and bring your core temperature down from dangerous levels, by sweating (which is how you regulate your internal temp).

heat stroke (Hyperthermia)
1. a severe condition caused by impairment of the body's temperature-regulating abilities, resulting from prolonged exposure to excessive heat and characterized by cessation of sweating, severe headache, high fever, hot dry skin, and in serious cases collapse and coma.

This is the worst stage, generally after the first two - the body cannot lower your temperature and your temperature will rise quickly. This is the stage in which hospitalization will be required. Body temperatures above 104 f (40 c) are dangerous, and 106 f (41 c) cause brain damage and death.


This is easily prevented. The #1 thing is to drink water. Lots of water. I know that can get uncomfortable with armor after a little while, but the bad side is much worse than a little discomfort for a little while. If you think that you're getting dehydrated, drink. Alcohol and Soda, especially stuff with caffeine, should be avoided (alcohol anyway if you're trooping) because it can increase dehydration. Water is your best bet. Don't just drink when you're thirsty - drink constantly. The best indicator is urine color - the darker it is, the more water you need to drink.

In the instance that you suspect that someone is suffering from Hyperthermia (they might exhibit some or all of the symptoms above or be really confused, disoriented) they need to be brought to a shaded, cool location right away. In worse cases, cool towels should be applied and they need to get out of their armor ASAP - the less that traps heat in the better.

In everything but extreme cases, as I understand it, giving the victim water is generally a good thing. In really bad cases, the only people who should be giving people anything are EMTs or medical personnel (generally an IV or something like that). If someone gets heat exhaustion or heat stroke, proper medical people need to be called right away.

Generally, what I wear on troops (even cool weather ones) is a camel back. These were pretty popular a couple years ago, and are still widely used. It's a small backpack with a water pouch and a tube for drinking. The smaller models fit under the armor with little difficulty (I wear mine on my chest - I wear TK FX armor) and loop the tube around the back of my neck, where I can stow the tube under the side of my armor, or in the rim of my helmet. It's not totally noticeable, but it is extremely handy to have on your person. I also tend to bring a couple of Nalgine bottles full of water for when I'm able to take my helmet off.

Another thing to do is to take breaks as often as you are able, where you can TAKE YOUR HELMET OFF. Hats and head coverings trap something like 80-90 percent of the heat in your body, so if you have a break area away from people, it's probably a good idea to use it.

Does anyone do anything else when they're out in the sun?

Bad guys doing good deeds

This in from the Florida Times-Union Jacksonville.com:

Bad guys doing good deeds
By WILLIAM MARDEN, Special to the Times-Union

Aaron Kahler is a tough-looking, bullet-headed man, a former Marine who works as a Jacksonville bail bondsman.

But in his spare time, he dresses up like a stormtrooper.
Which explains why you could find him near Friendship Fountain recently, sealed into that futuristic-looking white armor and wielding the energy weapons Darth Vader's infamous brigades made famous in the Star Wars movies.
He was shooting menacing looks alongside fellow members of Squad 7, the Jacksonville contingent of stormtroopers who make up Darth Vader's 501st Legion, otherwise known as Vader's Fist.
As he and six other members of Squad 7 took a break from the summerlike heat (and those hard plastic costumes do get hot), they drew a constant procession of young and old who couldn't get over the shock of seeing some of the most famous bad guys in cinema.
Despite their reputation, these bad guys had just finished walking 3 miles in the heat to raise money to fight juvenile diabetes. That's not unusual, Kahler said, because most of the 4,000 or so active members of the 501st Legion spend much of their time raising money or working for good causes.
Why would grown-ups around the world spend thousands of dollars, and untold hours, playing Star Wars make-believe?
To Kahler, it's as simple as the lure of the movies themselves and the chance to play the villain.

"I got into it two years ago," Kahler said. "I was a Star Wars fan from the time I went to see the first movie when I was 4 years old. I've been a fan ever since. I wanted to wear a costume like the Star Wars troopers even before I learned what they do for charity."
Kahler leads Squad 7, with 31 members on the First Coast and another three who live in the Tallahassee area. There are chapters in Tampa/St. Petersburg and a few other Florida cities.
He said the squad has helped the Ronald McDonald House and Wolfson Children's Hospital, including raising $1,000 to participate in the Red Wagon Parade.
Members take great pains to make their costumes as accurate as possible. Some make their own from molds, Kahler said, but most buy a kit that has black plastic under armor and the infamous shell of white outer armor. The kit costs about $1,000.
That's only the first step.
"We spend a lot of time screening still [pictures] from the movies to make the costumes as accurate as possible," Kahler said.
Troopers add bandoliers and pouches, and either modify Hasbro's toy stormtrooper blasters, or buy something such as a Hyper-firm long rifle, found online for $475.
And how do their loved ones feel about this?
"When I first got involved with it, my wife thought I was the biggest dork on the planet," said Kahler, who is married with two daughters. "It took two meetings for her to get into it and now she has armor herself. She hadn't seen a Star Wars film until we got married."
J.P. Fouchey has been a member for a couple of years and has two children, ages 8 and 21/2. He said his kids "love it" when he's in costume.
Attending events means the troopers must prepare to spend up to three hours just having fans take pictures of them, Kahler said.

Besides charity work, the squad also attends events such as MegaCon, the comic book convention in Orlando, as well as mall appearances.
Another Squad 7 member, Fabian Perez, said, "I've had more pictures taken of me in the last two years than the first 36 years of my life."
He said the payoff is putting smiles on people's faces.
But members of the 501st Legion don't deny that the chance to play the bad guys is a big part of the lure.
Arthur Pugh, 39, who has been in the squad for several years and a member of the 501st since 2003, said he joined because, "everybody likes playing the nameless, faceless bad guy. And those uniforms were just so cool."

Source

Plot Summary for Order 66

Order 66, written by Honorary (or honourary in this case) Member Karen Traviss, was recently covered with a new and very cool book cover. Starwars.com has just followed up with a plot summary of the book:

A Closer Look at Order 66

April 28, 2008

The Clone Wars rage to their bloody climax. Treachery reigns. Treason takes courage. Commandos, Jedi, and the entire Galactic Republic must face the end of life as they know it . . . and the dreaded dawn of a new empire.

After the fierce combat of Hard Contact, Triple Zero,True Colors comes the spectacular culmination of New York Times bestselling author Karen Traviss's gripping Republic Commando series. As a battle-scarred era nears its end, a shattering power play is about to stun the entire galaxy . . . and set in motion events that will alter destinies and resound throughout history. and

Even as the Clone Wars are about to reach an explosive climax, no one knows if victory will favor the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) or the Separatists. But no matter who wins, the stakes are highest for elite Special Ops clones like the Republic Commandos in Omega and Delta squads -- and the notorious renegade Advance Recon Commando troopers known as Null ARCs.

With Republic forces stretched to the max and casualties mounting, the last thing these beleaguered warriors need to hear is that Chancellor Palpatine is keeping vast armies of secret clone troops in reserve. Sergeant Skirata, a mentor to the clone commandos, has no intention of standing idly by while Palpatine sends them into battle like lambs to the slaughter. Skirata begins to plan the clones' escape from the GAR, but his heroic effort will be in vain unless he can reverse the clones' accelerated aging process. To pull that feat off, he will need the services of Separatist scientist Ovolot Qail Uthan, currently under lock and key in a GAR fortress prison. Caught in the treacherous dealings of their leaders, and locked in the battles of their lives, the disillusioned Null ARCs and Commandos nonetheless fight with everything they've got, determined to wrest victory from the Seps and save the galaxy.

But even the deadliest weapons may not be powerful enough to defeat the real menace. And nothing will stop the apocalyptic horror unleashed when Palpatine utters the chilling words: The time has come. Execute Order 66. Translation: The Jedi have tried to stage a coup, and all must be shot on sight.

With their faith in the Republic and their loyalty to their Jedi allies put to the ultimate test, how will the men of Omega and Delta squads react to the most infamous command in galactic history? All the breathtaking action, suspense, and intrigue of Karen Traviss's Republic Commando series comes alive in Star Wars: Order 66. Available in hardcover from Del Rey Books in September, 2008.

Here is the cover art by Greg Knight, jacket design by David Stevenson, recently revealed at randomhouse.com

I'm really excited for this book - I've loved Karen's first three books in the series, and this one sounds like it's going to be off the hook.

Deal or No Deal: Pictures

Anyone watch DOND last night? What'd you think?

Here's some images from the show:






More here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/darthhaggis/sets/72157604785742694/

From NBC:


Edit: Another photo set here: http://public.fotki.com/MaraJade/deal-or-no-deal/

Wellington Armageddon In the News

Outpost 42 recently trooped at the Wellington Armageddon recently, a SciFi convention out in New Zealand, and the following report made it into the news:

10,000 sci-fi fans can't be wrong

Darth Vader maintained a baleful glare over more than 10,000 sci-fi fans at the Armageddon Expo in Christchurch during the weekend.

Organiser Adele Geradts said many families were among the 10,000 to 12,000 attendees.
National Star Wars fan group 501st Legion provided the dark lord himself, along with Stormtroopers and other Star Wars characters.
Geradts and her husband, Bill, have been running the gaming, science fiction and wrestling show in Auckland since 1995, and decided to stage a show in Christchurch for the first time last year.
The response in the Garden City had been excellent and they were looking forward to returning in 2009, she said.
Visitors were treated to a laser tag arena, wrestling and autograph sessions with actors from Stargate and Heroes.

Source

Series 7 Trading Cards Released

This in from 501st.com:

501st Trading Cards Series 7 Released
After 9 long months of production, the next 50 cards in the official 501st trading card set are now in circulation. Series 7 (cards 351-400) includes three new Honorary Member cards, five new unit cards, two new event cards, and a new recruitment card. Click here to view all the cards including Series 7. Please remember that these cards are provided to our fans at no cost---feel free to trade, but please don't sell them! Ask for cards the next time you see the 501st in action.

Here's a couple of images:

Deal or No Deal: Star Wars Style

I generally dislike reality TV/ Game shows. However, I'll tune into tonight's episode of Deal or No Deal, because tonight's episode will be Star Wars themed. The storm troopers? Members of the 501st, from the San Diago Squad and surrounding areas. Way to go guys!

Here's a blurb from the official Star Wars blog:

The Banker is about to meet his match. NBC’s hit game show “Deal or No Deal” transforms itself for a special Star Wars themed “winner take all” episode on Monday, April 28 (8-10 pm ET) surprising two diehard fans of the popular movie franchise with the experience of a lifetime. Guest supporters cheering on the contestants include actress Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia), Chewbacca and R2-D2, and in a surprise twist, Darth Vader fills in as the villainous Banker.

In this two-hour “winner take all” episode, two contestants, Elyse McCrillis and Brad Flinchum, will duel against each other with the chance to win close to two million dollars. They will each play their own game and whoever has the highest amount at the end of his or her game will take home both winnings, leaving the other with nothing. This will make them re-think their strategy — play it safe or take the risk and go all the way — in order to be the winner.

NEG on After Hours with TC

The New England Garrison made an appearance at a late show, I think about a year ago (they're getting the up clips now)

Intro Clip

Star Wars Chicks

Mission Report: Vermont Maple Fest

Vermont had its third event this past weekend, a quick trooping at the Vermont Maple Fest in Northern Vermont, in St. Albans. I learned that Jerry was trooping at the event, and I drove up to help him out. The event is a three day event, culminating in a parade. The two of us, along with Jerry's wife, walked among the crowd, shaking hands and posing for pictures. (Those will be coming soon, I hope). We based ourselves out of the town's gaming store, Heroes Kingdom, which was handy when we needed to take a break.
People really liked us. We didn't march in the parade, but when we were out and about, it was a fun time, although next time, I think I'd like an additional wrangler, because there were some kids who were a little annoying at times. I had one come up and crash into me for a hug, and our wrangler headed off a couple others who were plotting to knock us over, which thankfully didn't happen.
We were out for about 4 hours, which was plenty of time - it got hot out! We were also interviewed by a local news team, so we might end up on the evening news, I'll try and watch tonight and get it tapped it that's the case.
Overall, a fun time, lot of little kids who were really ecstatic to see us (some scared). This is probably something to try and do again next year, hopefully we'll get some people up, or maybe some of the Canadians down to help out.

Events Report - April 25 - May 30th

Here's the upcoming events for the 501st Legion:

As always, please remember that all events are subject to change and to contact the hosting garrison.

Friday Apr 25
Alpine Garrison - SOUTHWEST SYMPHONY / Science Centre fund raiser - TENATIVE
Great Lakes Garrison - Albion College Spring Concert - Albion, MI
Florida Garrison - Family Fun Day II - Miami, FL
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London

Saturday Apr 26
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London
70th Explorers - Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis
Midwest Garrison - Cape ComicCon - Cape Girardeau MO
Dune Sea Garrison - 5K for JA / KidsRockStars - Tempe Town Lake Arts Park
Star Garrison, Crimson Nova Squad - Sparks in the Park - Benton, Arkansas
Southern California Garrison - "Meet and Greet" BBQ - Long Beach, CA
Garrison Carida - Character Breakfast - Huntinton, WV
Garrison Carida - Bowling for Make A Wish - Mt. Joy, PA
Florida Garrison - Best Buy - Tentative - Ocoee Florida
Florida Garrison - Our Kids World Family Fun Fest - Florida
German Garrison - Tattoo Convention 2008 - Frankfurt
Mexican Garrison - Colecta para el Centro de Atención a la Violencia Intrafamiliar de Mexicali - Mexicali, BC
Dune Sea Garrison - Tucson! March of Dimes: 3k March for Babies! - Tuscon AZ
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Vernal, UT
Florida Garrison - March of Dimes March for Babies 2008 - Tampa Bay, FL
Badlands Garrison - The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping arcade, Whitby

Sunday Apr 27
Badlands Garrison - The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping arcade, Whitby
Garrison Tyranus - March for Babies - VA Beach
Mountain Garrison - Breast Cancer Walk
70th Explorers - Kid's Trolley Run 2008 - Mill Creek Park, JC Nichols Parkway, Kansas City, MO
Dewback Ridge Squad - Breast Cancer Walk - Albuquerque, NM
Mexican Garrison - Día del Niño en Casa Alianza - Mexico City
Garrison Carida - Autism Awareness Day - Philly, PA
Costa Rica Outpost - Earth Day Celebration
Capitol City Squad - MS Walk

Wednesday Apr 30
Mexican Garrison - Tabasco - Galerias Tabasco 2000 día del niño
German Garrison - Auftritt bei "Fettes-Brot"-Konzert - Georg-Elser-Halle München
Crimson Nova Squad/70th Explorers - Official LFL Event - Bentonville, Arkansas

Thursday May 1
UK Garrison - Sci~Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London
Mexican Garrison - Semana de la Legión 2008

Friday May 2
UK Garrison - Sci-Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London
Mexican Garrison - Semana de la Legión 2008
Terror Australis Garrison - Starlight Day - Perth, Australia

Saturday May 3
Mexican Garrison - Semana de la Legión 2008
UK Garrison - Sci-Fi London Convention
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion
70th Explorers - Comic Relief Again & Comic Relief
Alabama Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, "The Deep"
Alabama Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Kingdom Comics
Alpine Garrison - 'Walk Now for Autism'
Alpine Garrison - ALA Blow the Whistle on Asthma Walk
Alpine Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Outland Comics
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk Montana
Arkansas Squad - Free Comic Book Day, Autobot City Comics
Arkansas Squad - Free Comic Book Day, Kapow Comics
Bloodfin Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Books Comics & Things
Bloodfin Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Comic Cave
Bloodfin Garrison - Orlean Dogwood Festival Parade
Canadian Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Comic Book Shoppe, Bank St.
Canadian Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Comic book Shoppe, Merivale Rd
Canadian Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Silver Snail, Toronto
Canadian Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Worlds Collide
Canadian Garrison - Hobby Centre/The Cave/Local Library
Capitol City Squad - Free Comic Book Day, The Comic Book shoppe
Carolina Garrison - Acme Comics
Carolina Garrison - Children's Autism Fundraiser Event
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day - Richard’s Comics and Collectables
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Comic Nirvana
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Parkwood Mall
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Rebel Base Comics & Toys
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Richard’s Comics and Collectables
Central California Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Bonanza Books
Connecticut Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Sarge's
Dune Sea Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Heroes and Villians
Dune Sea Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Samurai Comics
Dune Sea Garrison - Phoenix Prowlers (WFL) - Kid's Night
Florida Garrison - Bartram Trail Relay for Life / American Cancer Society
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Coliseum of Comics
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Dark Side COmics
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Famous Faces & Funnies
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Fantasy Factory
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Tate Comics
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Yancy St. Comics
Florida Garrison, Free Comic Book Day, Cosmic Cat Comics, Games & Anime
Garrison Carida - Free Comic Book Day, Brave New World Comics
Garrison Carida - Free Comic Book Day, Comic Store West
Garrison Carida - Free Comic Book Day, Golden Eagle Comics
Garrison Carida - Non Sports Card Show
Garrison Excelsior - Free Comic Book Day, All Heroes Comics - TENATIVE
Garrison Excelsior - Free Comic Book Day, Chautauqua Comics
Garrison Titan - Merlyns Science Fiction and Fantasy Store TROOPS FOR TROOPS
Garrison Tyranus - Free Comic Book Day
Golden Gate Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, ComicInk
Great Lakes Garrison - Wonder World Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, G-Mart
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Graham Cracker Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Heroic Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, House of Heros
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Neptune Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Reader's World
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, The Vault
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Tommorow is Yesterday
Mississippi Outpost - Free Comic Book Day
Mountain Garrison Dewback Ridge Squad - Free Comic Book Day, Lobo Comics
Mountain Garrison Dewback Ridge Squad - Free Comic Book Day, Noble Comics
New England Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Earth Prime Comics, Vermont
New England Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Jetpack Comics
New England Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Rubber Chicken Comics
Ohio Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Recess Games
Ohio Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Superfly Comics
Southern California Garrison - Free Comic Book Day
Southern California Garrison - Walk for Animals
UK Garrison - Farewell Fiesta for Kings Copse Special School
UK Garrison - Space Age Exhibition

Sunday May 4
UK Garrison - Sci-Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London
Mexican Garrison - Semana de la Legión 2008
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Connecticut Garrison - Easter Seals Walk With Me Walk-a-thon - Old Mystic, CT
Carolina Garrison - Benefit for Katie a 4th grader dobble event - Greenville S.C.
70th Explorers - ToyMan Show
Carolina Garrison - March of Dimes-Walk for Babies - Wilkesboro, NC
Carolina Garrison - Little Red Wagon Benefit - Greenville SC
70th Explorers - 38th Annual March of Dimes March for Babies - Kansas City, MO
Garrison Carida - Where Science Meets Imagination Finale - Philadelphia, PA
Midwest Garrison - The Oconocon Comic Book Convention - Oconomowoc, WI
UK Garrison - BUPA Great Edinburgh Run - The Meadow, Edinburgh
Canadian Garrison - Montreal Toy Con - St-Laurent, QC

Monday May 5
Mexican Garrison - Semana de la Legión 2008
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
UK Garrison - Retford Charter Day - The Hair Cabin, Retford
Dune Sea Garrison - Phoenix Prowlers (WFL) - Kids Night - Mesa, AZ

Tuesday May 6
Mexican Garrison - Semana de la Legión 2008
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Garrison Carida - Sunshine Dreamlift Sendoff - Ewing, NJ

Wednesday May 7
Mexican Garrison - Semana de la Legión 2008
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece

Thursday May 8
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Southern California Garrison - Shriners Hospital LA Car-Ni-Fair Event - Shriners Hospital for Children, LA

Friday May 9
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
UK Garrison - Hands on with the Force Unleashed!! - THE CUMBERLAND HOTEL, LONDON
UK Garrison - Bristol International Comic Expo Film Night - Ramada Jarvis, Bristol
Midwest Garrison - Praire Wind Ensemble - Peoria, IL

Saturday May 10
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Garrison Carida - Lower Merion Township Police Week Event - Lower Merion Township
Garrison Carida - Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Walk - Philadelphia, PA
Alabama Garrison - Mobile Baybear Park - Mobile, AL
Garrison Excelsior -Lilac Festival Parade 2008
Alabama Garrison - HSO John Williams Concert - Huntsville, AL
Bloodfin Garrison - Boarders Bookstore Grand Opening - Fishers, IN
Carolina Garrison - John Williams Night with the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra - Greensboro, NC
Alpine Garrison - CMN event with B94.3 radio station - St. George, Utah
Carolina Garrison - Little Red Wagon Event - Greenville SC
Central Garrison - Cystic Fibrosis 'Great Strides' Walk - Chalco Hills Recreation Area - Omaha, NE
Garrison Tyranus - Little League Baseball Worldwide Challenger Jamboree - Norfolk
Mountain Garrison - St Baldrick's - Albuquerque, NM
Mississippi Outpost - March of Dimes Event - Jackson MS
Garrison Carida - Benefit for Gavin - Ellport, PA
UK Garrison - Bristol International Comic Convention - British Empire and Commonwealth, Bristol

Sunday May 11
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
UK Garrison - Bristol International Comic Convention - British Empire and Commonwealth, Bristol
Florida Garrison - Geek singles night Tates Comics - Lauderhill, Fl

Monday May 12
Terror Australis Garrison - LucasArts Roadshow TENATIVE - Melbourne

Tuesday May 13
Troy Denning Signing - Roseville, MN

Wednesday May 14
Midwest Garrison -Troy Denning Book Signing - Oak Brook, IL
Outpost 42 - LucasArts Roadshow - TENATIVE - Auckland, New Zealand
Alpine Garrison - Salvation Army Luncheon
UK Garrison - Clone Troopers Toy Masters Hasbro Event - The Majestic Hotel, North Yorkshire
Nordic Garrison - Nordic Game Conference - Malmö, Sweden

Thursday May 15
Bloodfin Garrison - Troy Denning Book Signing - North Carmel, IN

Friday May 16
Mexico Garrison -ACME Expo Manga Comic Anime - Durango, Dgo
Southern California Garrison - March of Dimes March for Babies - Simi Valley, CA
Terror Australis Garrison - LucasArts Roadshow - Sydney, AUS
Florida Garrison - Relay For Life - Tentative - Jacksonville, FL
Great Lakes Garrison - Motor City ComicCon - Novi, MI

Saturday May 17
Florida Garrison - Relay For Life - Tentative - Jacksonville, FL
Great Lakes Garrison - Motor City ComicCon - Rock Financial Showplace its on 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi, MI 48374
UK Garrison - Toys R Us Brent Cross Store - Toys R Us, London
Florida Garrison - Music of Star Wars and More John Williams Hits - 300 Water St, Jacksonville, Florida
Southern California Garrison - OCSWS Saber Academy Appearance - 2200 Commonwealth Fullerton Ca.
Central Garrison - Cystic Fibrosis 'Great Strides' Walk - Antelope Park, Shelter #1 - Lincoln, NE
MidSouth Garrison - St.Jude Children's Research Hospital Kick-A-Thon - Burlington, KY
Central Garrison - I-Con - Iowa State Fairgrounds - Des Moines, IA
Troy Denning Signing - Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia, PA
Garrison Carida - Ranson, WV Festival - Ranson, WV
Garrison Carida - Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Walk - Media, PA
Old Line Garrison - Relay for Life
Garrison Carida - WV Strawberry Festival and Parade
70th Explorers - Art Tougeau Parade - Lawrence, KS
Midwest Garrison - Out Of This World" Sci-Fi costume exhibit @ Oshkosh Public Museum Exhibit Wrap up - Oshkosh, WI
Bloodfin Garrison - Spina Bifida Strikes Back - Woodland bowl, IN
Mountain Garrison - Blood Drive - Albuquerque, NM
Garrison Excelsior - Star Wars Day at Ross Park Zoo - Ross Park Zoo, Binghamton, NY
Alpine Garrison - 2008 CBH MS WALK - Blackfoot and Idaho Falls
Garrison Carida - Free Library Book Festival - Philadelphia, PA

Sunday May 18
Great Lakes Garrison - Motor City ComicCon - Rock Financial Showplace its on 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi, MI 48374
Garrison Carida - Free Library Book Festival - Philadelphia, PA
Mexican Garrison - Tijuana Cospla 08 - Tijuana
Empire City Garrison - Troy Denning Signing - Huntington, NY
Garrison Carida - Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Walks - Wilmington, DE
Old Line Garrison - Great Strides Walk for CFF - Frederick, MD
New England Garrison - Granite State ComicCon - Manchester NH
Golden Gate Garrison - Bay to Breakers race - San Francisco, CA
Costa Rica Outpost - KAMEN: IV International Masquerade and Cosplay Festival - Costa Rica
Bloodfin Garrison - 2008 Great Strides Walk - Millrace Park Columbus, IN

Monday May 19
Garrison Excelsior - Webster Library visit - Webster, NY
Outpost 42 - Wellington Armageddon - Wellington, NZ

Tuesday May 20
Outpost 42 - Wellington Armageddon - Wellington, NZ
Florida Garrison - St. Mark's School Spring Concert - Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Southern California Garrison - NCAA Track and Field Championships “Red Carpet Hollywood Welcome Event” kickoff dinner - Pomona, CA

Wednesday May 21
Midwest Garrison -"All Things Star Wars" Public Library Chidren's program - Mokena, IL

Friday May 23
German Garrison - Science-Fiction Tage - Herxheim am Berg
German Garrison - Promotion für Kaufhof/Gropius Passage - Berlin
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk Montana - Billings, Montana
Mexican Garrison - TOUR CONCOMICS - Guadalajara, Jal
Ohio Garrison - MarCon - Hyatt Regency, Columbus OH
Carolina Garrison - Animazement
70th Explorers - ConQuesT 39 - Fanimal House - Kansas City, MO
Canadian Garrison - Anime North - Toronto Congress Center, 650 Dixon Road

Saturday May 24
Mexican Garrison - TOUR CONCOMICS - Guadalajara, Jal
Ohio Garrison - MarCon - Hyatt Regency, Columbus OH
Carolina Garrison - Animazement
70th Explorers - ConQuesT 39 - Fanimal House - Kansas City, MO
Canadian Garrison - Anime North - Toronto Congress Center, 650 Dixon Road
Canadian Garrison - 2nd Annual Star Wars Event and Toy Show - Welland City Hall
Florida Garrison - ScoutCon 2008 - Tampa, FL
UK Garrison - Toys R Us Southampton - Toys R Us, Hants
California Garrison - Star Wars Day at Paul Biane Library - Paul Biane Library
Florida Garrison - 2008 Autism Walk - Orlando Florida
Mexican Garrison - Star Wars Wedding
German Garrison - Science-Fiction Tage - Herxheim am Berg
Empire City Garrison - Movie and TV World Con - New York City, NY

Sunday May 25
Mexican Garrison - TOUR CONCOMICS - Guadalajara, Jal
Ohio Garrison - MarCon - Hyatt Regency, Columbus OH
Carolina Garrison - Animazement
70th Explorers - ConQuesT 39 - Fanimal House - Kansas City, MO
Canadian Garrison - Anime North - Toronto
Empire City Garrison - Movie and TV World Con - New York City, NY
German Garrison - Science-Fiction Days - Herxheim am Berg

Monday May 26
Connecticut Garrison - Hamden Memorial Day Parade - Hamden, CT
Outpost 42 - Christchurch Armageddon - Christchurch , New Zealand

Tuesday May 27
Outpost 42 - Christchurch Armageddon - Christchurch , New Zealand

Thursday May 29
Mountain Garrison - Troy Denning Signing - Highlands Ranch, CO

Friday May 30
Florida Garrison - Wrath of Con - Panama City Beach, Florida
Carolina Garrison - Relay for Life - Wilkesboro, NC -
Garrison Titan - Troy Denning Signing - Seattle, WA
Garrison Cardia - Wizard World East - Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadephia PA

Saturday May 31
Garrison Cardia - Wizard World East - Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadephia PA
Garrison Carida - Wheeling Walk for Autism - Warwood, WV
Nordic Garrison - Star Wars Saturday - Medborgerhuset, Taastrup, Denmark
Garrison Excelsior -Stroll for Strong Kids - Genesee Valley Park, Rochester, NY
Mountain Garrison - Spectacle - Albuquerque, NM
Great Lakes Garrison - Relay for Life - Kalamazoo, MI
Carolina Garrison - Relay for Life - Wilkesboro, NC
Cloud City Garrison - The Starlight Parade - Portland, Oregon
Malaysia-Brunei Outpost - Droid Hunt

501st Caught on Camera

Here's some pictures from this week that've been found on Flickr.


First up, three from New Zealand:




Random Sandtrooper - Not sure where he is.


Southern California Garrison playing Lasertag:


Mountain Garrison at Starfest:



Two runners in the London Marathon:



The Mexican Garrison out in force:




A couple more images from NYCC:



Feedback!


The Pacific Outpost at Kawaii Kon:


Me, at Northeast Wars:


Southern California Garrison at an MS walk:




The Alabama Garrison out in force:





And a lone trooper from the UK garrison at Brighton:

New Book Covers!

A couple of our honorary members are publishing new Star Wars books!

This summer, Karen Traviss's latest, Order 66, will be released as a hardcover, due out this September, 9-16-2008. No plot has been released yet, but expect Clones, clones and more clones. And oh yeah, some Mandalorians and quite possibly some dead Jedi. This is one sick cover.





Next up is Luke Skywalker and the Shadows of Mindor. Looks like it's a bit in the older style of Star Wars books, and it's by Matthew Stover, who's an absolutely fantastic author. This book's out in Hardcover on October 21st.


Finally, after something like 10 years, we're getting a second Star Wars Encyclopedia. This time, it's two volumes, and is written by Stephen Stansweet and Pablo Hidalgo. This one's due to be released on November 4th at $75. I can't wait.





Which one are you looking forwards to the most?

501st Shoutout

Not really newsworthy, but a blog that I follow, Geeks of Doom, had a nice mention of us:

Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Sansweet played a mini-documentary by Dave Filoni, the director of the animated Star Wars: The Clone Wars, which will be in theaters August 15, 2008. The film takes place between SW: Episodes 2 and 3 with Anakin and Obi-Wan leading the Clone Army against the Separatists. The mini-doc takes a look at Anakin and his relationship with his apprentice Ahsoka. We’re also told that George Lucas was greatly involved in the making of the film, as well as the television series that’s to follow in the Fall. After the footage was shown and the lights came back on, 501st Imperial Legion Clone Troopers were standing on the stage! That’s was pretty cool.

Yes, we are the cool guys. ;)

501st Caught on Film

Only a couple videos this week that I haven't placed up here already:

Stormtroopers support Autism Walk

Clearnet Take On Armageddon!

Columbus Toy Show 2008

Bodie "Tihoi" Taylor made Honorary Member

This past weekend, the New Zealand Garrison, Outpost 42, made Bodie Taylor, the actor who played the younger clones in Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith, an honorary member in the 501st Legion.


Congratulations to Bodie! He's joining good company!

Jeremy Bolloch's Sister passed away...

This has just hit the headlines:

Star Wars actor's moving tribute to sister actress Sally Bulloch
Star Wars actor yesterday paid tribute to his late sister who grew up in Bognor Regis.
Jeremy Bulloch, who played Boba Fett in the classic films, described Sally as 'The Special One'. He said: "Nothing was too much trouble for her.
"We loved growing up in Bognor. The sun always seemed to be shining. Growing up by the seaside was just perfect.
"When we were at acting school, and living in digs in London, we always used to look forward to the weekends and going back to Bognor."
He invited all those who knew Sally – who died in South Africa at the age of 59 – to a memorial service to celebrate her life.
This is likely to take place in London on May 16. Final details are still being arranged.
Sally was found dead in the bathroom of her luxury home in Franschhoek, near Cape Town, on April 10. She was cremated in the town. She is believed to have suffered a heart attack and injured herself after falling.
Mr Bulloch said initial reports that her death could have been suspicious were misleading. Verbal comments from the coroner indicated nothing was amiss. But he said the South African system meant it could be months before the verdict was officially known.
Sally, along with her three brothers and sisters, spent much of her childhood and most of her teenage years between the mid-1950s and mid-1960s in Bognor.
Their family had moved from Littlehampton to take over the Fennells social club in Park Road. Sally attended the former Summerley School and Gateway School in Felpham.
She achieved fame as a child actor as Maude Birdhanger in the 1960 film Pure Hell of St Trinian's.
One of her childhood friends in Bognor, Maureen Mabbott, who lived in Stocker Road spoke fondly of the time they spent together from 1956.
"Sally was larger than life. She loved life to the full. Everyone who knew Sally would remember her. She broke all the rules but in a nice way," said Winchester resident Mrs Mabbott, nee McDougall. "There was nothing malicious about her but she was quite fearless.
"You always had fun with her. The only difference between her and her character in the St Trinian's film was that Maude was unpopular and Sally was popular.
"She had such a way with people. That's why she was well-liked."
She kept in contact with Sally, who was due to visit England next month, with regular phone calls.
Paul Watts (59), whose family owned a cafe on Bognor seafront, fondly remembered Sally.
She used to work for him washing up in the former Macari's coffee shop his family took over.
Sally was born at Chatham, Kent, on July 11, 1948. She was the youngest of six children by her mother's second marriage.
Her role in St Trinian's led to parts in television commercials.
But, after she attended the Corona stage school, she became a nanny. A magazine advert led her to work for the late comedian Peter Cook for three years.
A move to Malta saw her host a weekly radio programme before she returned to London in 1976 and applied to work at the Athenaeum Hotel.
She established a reputation there as a superb hostess.
She worked there on and off for 25 years of the almost 30 years she spent in the business in London.
Source

Kenny Baker Update

This in regarding Kenny Baker:

Star Wars legend: My brush with death
17 April 2008
By Melanie Wallwork
Star Wars favourite Kenny Baker has told the Lancashire Evening Post in an exclusive video interview of his terrifying brush with death.
Asthma sufferer Kenny, who played R2-D2 in all six Star Wars films, is recovering in a Manchester hospital after falling ill on a flight from America last week.
The 3ft 8in-tall actor who lives in Ashton, Preston, said: "I was pretty ill. I'm getting worse and worse with my breathing. I'm 73 but I feel 53 and I want to keep going. But you get older and you don't realise."
The grandfather-of-six had traveled to Pittsburgh via Chicago for a two week working holiday, including a Star Wars convention, and was on his way back to Manchester when he was taken ill.
He said: "I felt fine on the plane, but then I passed out somewhere near Ireland – not that far away, otherwise I wouldn't have lasted.
"My girlfriend, Valerie, thought I was dying so she told everybody and they were trying to bring me round but couldn't.
"The paramedics picked me up at the plane but they couldn't bring me round either. They brought me in here and they've got a magic oxygen machine which brought me round.
"It's the thing that saved me. The oxygen levels (in my lungs) are too high and the levels in my blood are too low, so they're trying to balance it."
Kenny thinks it was an increase in oxygen levels on the plane that caused him to pass out.
He said: "I was in here for quite a while when I came round. I didn't know what day it was and I didn't know where I was."
His son Kevin, 35, said the family was told to expect the worst as he was expected to die in his sleep.
Kenny, who has enjoyed going to Star Wars conventions all over the world, says it is unlikely he will travel beyond Europe after his scare.
But he reassured and thanked his fans for their support and added: "I feel fine now.
"I've got a new Westie called Trixie. I'm going to get home, take the dog for a walk on Ashton Park and take it easy."

Source

Order 66 at the New York ComiCon

Latest video from the NYCC:

NY JEDI at NY ComiCon 2008

Picture from the Edmonton Show

The following picture and caption made it into the Edmonton Sun today. The troopers are from the Alpine Garrison, who trooped there over this past weekend. Thanks to Amanda for the heads up.

April 20: Astarte Magara, five, ganders at a line of people dressed up as Star Wars characters during the Edmonton Collectible Toy and Comic Show at the Shaw Conference Centre.

Practical Armor Applications

The 501st doesn't really appear to have any practical applications if you pass one of us walking down the street. We are a costuming group, and while we donate a lot of money to charity, we pretty much have the appearance of geeks dressing up.

Today, I came across one of the most interesting applications that I've seen for Storm Trooper armor - Anti-Squid armor. Yep, someone's actually using the armor for something besides blaster protection. Squid, which are predators, capture their prey by grabbing them with their tentacles and using a beaked mouth to rip their food apart. I guess if you're studying them, you also run into that risk, and having a hard shell is probably helpful.

According to his website, Scott Cassell has put the armor to good use - he's been attacked by a group of squid, and the armor's protected him. He's wearing a modified suit of FX armor, minus the helmet, obviously. There's a documentary out on DVD, where he talks about the suit of the armor.

There's some video of him in the armor here.

3rd Set from NYCC

A couple more from NYCC:

Second Set of NYCC Pictures

Here's a second set of NYCC Pictures. There's some good ones here:

Clone with Steve Stansweet


Seth Green from Robot Chicken


Brian, TK-706, from the NEG










ECG?





Crashley








I really, really like this one.

Pictures from New York Comic Con

One of the big events over the past couple days was the New York ComicCon, held in New York City. Here's a bunch of pictures from the event from Flickr:

Sneak Peak: Clone Wars

A new video detailing a battle in the Clone Wars movie has been posted online:

Events Report - April 22 - May 31

The following are the events reported for the 501st Legion between April 22nd and May 31st. Please contact the hosting garrison prior to attending any event for up to date information, as events can be changed or canceled without notice. FCBD events are listed separately.

Tuesday Apr 22
Nordic Garrison - Clone Wars Marketing Event - Stockholm, Sweden

Friday Apr 25
Alpine Garrison - SOUTHWEST SYMPHONY / Science Centre fund raiser - TENTATIVE
Great Lakes Garrison - Albion College Spring Concert - Albion, MI
Florida Garrison - Family Fun Day II - Miami, FL
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London

Saturday Apr 26
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London
70th Explorers - Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis, Columbia, MO
Badlands Garrison - The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo
Midwest Garrison - Cape ComicCon - Cape Girardeau MO
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Provo Utah
Dune Sea Garrison - 5K for JA / KidsRockStars - Tempe Town Lake Arts Park
Star Garrison, Crimson Nova Squad - Sparks in the Park - Benton, Arkansas
Southern California Garrison - "Meet and Greet" BBQ - Long Beach, CA
Garrison Carida - Character Breakfast - Huntinton, WV
Garrison Carida - Bowling for Make a Wish - Mt. Joy, PA
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Ogeden, UT
Florida Garrison - Our Kids World Family Fun Fest - Florida
German Garrison - Tattoo Convention 2008 - Frankfurt
Dune Sea Garrison - Tucson! March of Dimes: 3k March for Babies! - Tuscon AZ
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Cedar City, UT
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Vernal, UT
Florida Garrison - March of Dimes March for Babies 2008 - Tampa Bay, FL
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
New England Garrison - Relay for Life - canceled - Norwich University, Northfield, VT
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping arcade, Whitby

Sunday Apr 27
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
New England Garrison - Relay for Life - Canceled - Norwich University, Northfield, VT
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping arcade, Whitby
Garrison Tyranus - March for Babies - VA Beach
Mountain Garrison - Breast Cancer Walk
70th Explorers - Kid's Trolley Run 2008 - Kansas City, MO
Dewback Ridge Squad - Breast Cancer Walk - Albuquerque, NM
Mexican Garrison - Día del Niño en Casa Alianza - Casa Alianza
Garrison Carida - Autism Awareness Day - Philadelphia, PA
Costa Rica Outpost - Earth Day Celebration
Capitol City Squad - MS Walk

Wednesday Apr 30
Mexican Garrison - Tabasco - Galerias Tabasco 2000 día del niño
German Garrison - Auftritt bei "Fettes-Brot"-Konzert - Georg-Elser-Halle München

Thursday May 1
INTERNATIONAL 501ST DAY!
UK Garrison - Sci-Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London
New England Garrison – Meet the 501st – Burlington, Vermont

Friday May 2
UK Garrison - Sci-Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London
Terror Australis Garrison - Starlight Day - Perth, Australia

Saturday May 3
NON-FREE COMIC BOOK DAY EVENTS
UK Garrison - Sci-Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London
Garrison Carida - Non Sports Card Show - Allentown, PA
Florida Garrison - Bartram Trail Relay for Life / American Cancer Society
Carolina Garrison - Children's Autism Fundraiser Event - Cornelius NC
Alpine Garrison - ALA Blow the Whistle on Asthma Walk - Sugarhouse Park, UT
UK Garrison - Space Age Exhibition - Weston Park Museum, Sheffield
Southern California Garrison - Walk for Animals - San Diego, CA
UK Garrison - Space Age Exhibition - Weston Park Museum, Sheffield
Southern California Garrison - Walk for Animals - San Diego, CA
Dune Sea Garrison - Phoenix Prowlers (WFL) - Kid's Night - Mesa, AZ

FREE COMIC BOOK DAY EVENTS:

Alabama Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, "The Deep"
Alabama Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Kingdom Comics
Alpine Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Outland Comics
Bloodfin Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Books Comics & Things
Bloodfin Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Comic Cave
Capitol City Squad - Free Comic Book Day, The Comic Book shoppe
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day - Richard's Comics and Collectables
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Comic Nirvana
Carolina Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Parkwood Mall
Dune Sea Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Heroes and Villains
Dune Sea Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Samurai Comics
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Coliseum of Comics
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Dark Side Comics
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Famous Faces & Funnies
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Fantasy Factory
Florida Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Yancy St. Comics
Florida Garrison, Free Comic Book Day, Cosmic Cat Comics, Games & Anime
Garrison Carida - Free Comic Book Day, Brave New World Comics
Garrison Carida - Free Comic Book Day, Comic Store West
Garrison Carida - Free Comic Book Day, Golden Eagle Comics
Garrison Excelsior - Free Comic Book Day, All Heroes Comics - TENATIVE
Garrison Excelsior - Free Comic Book Day, Chautauqua Comics
Garrison Tyranus - Free Comic Book Day
Golden Gate Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, ComicInk
Great Lakes Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Wonder World Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, G-Mart
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Graham Cracker Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Heroic Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, House of Heroes
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Krypton Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Neptune Comics
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Reader's World
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, The Vault
Midwest Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Tomorrow is Yesterday
New England Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Earth Prime Comics, Vermont
New England Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Heroes Kingdom
New England Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Jetpack Comics
New England Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Rubber Chicken Comics
Ohio Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Recess Games
Ohio Garrison - Free Comic Book Day, Superfly Comics


Sunday May 4
UK Garrison - Sci-Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
UK Garrison - BUPA Great Edinburgh Run - Edinburgh, Scotland
Carolina Garrison - Benefit for Katie a 4th grader dobble event - Greenville S.C.
70th Explorers - ToyMan Show
Bupa Great Edinburgh Run - Edinburgh, Scotland
Carolina Garrison - March of Dimes-Walk for Babies - Wilkesboro, NC
Carolina Garrison - Little Red Wagon Benefit - Greenville SC
70th Explorers - 38th Annual March of Dimes March for Babies - Kansas City, MO
Garrison Excelsior - Where Science Meets Imagination Finale - Philadelphia, PA
Midwest Garrison - The Oconocon Comic Book Convention - Oconomowoc, WI
UK Garrison - BUPA Great Edinburgh Run - The Meadow, Edinburgh

Monday May 5
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
UK Garrison - Retford Charter Day - The Hair Cabin, Retford
Dune Sea Garrison - Phoenix Prowlers (WFL) - Kids Night - Mesa, AZ

Tuesday May 6
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Garrison Carida - Sunshine Dreamlift Sendoff - Ewing, NJ

Wednesday May 7
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece

Thursday May 8
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Southern California Garrison - Shriners Hospital LA Car-Ni-Fair Event - Shriners Hospital for Children, LA

Friday May 9
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
UK Garrison - `Graham` - ``Everywhere``
UK Garrison - Bristol International Comic Expo Film Night - Ramada Jarvis, Bristol
Garrison Excelsior - 60th Albany Tulip Festival

Saturday May 10
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Garrison Excelsior - 60th Albany Tulip Festival
Garrison Carida - Lower Merion Township Police Week Event - Lower Merion Township
Garrison Carida - Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Walk - Philadelphia, PA
Alabama Garrison - Mobile Baybear Park - Mobile, AL
Garrison Excelsior -Lilac Festival Parade 2008
Alabama Garrison - HSO John Williams Concert - Huntsville, AL
Bloodfin Garrison - Boarders Bookstore Grand Opening - Fishers, IN
Carolina Garrison - John Williams Night with the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra - Greensboro, NC
Alpine Garrison - CMN event with B94.3 radio station - St. George, Utah
Carolina Garrison - Little Red Wagon Event - Greenville SC
Central Garrison - Cystic Fibrosis 'Great Strides' Walk - Chalco Hills Recreation Area - Omaha, NE
Garrison Tyranus - Little League Baseball Worldwide Challenger Jamboree - Norfolk
Mountain Garrison - St Baldrick's - Albuquerque, NM
Garrison Carida - Benefit for Gavin - Ellport, PA
UK Garrison - Bristol International Comic Convention - British Empire and Commonwealth, Bristol

Sunday May 11
UK Garrison - Star Wars IGT Promotion - Regency Casino, Thessaloniki, Greece
Garrison Excelsior - 60th Albany Tulip Festival
UK Garrison - Bristol International Comic Convention - British Empire and Commonwealth, Bristol
Florida Garrison - Geek singles night Tates Comics - Lauderhill, Fl

Tuesday May 13
Troy Denning Signing - Roseville, MN

Wednesday May 14
Midwest Garrison -Troy Denning Book Signing - Oak Brook, IL
Alpine Garrison - Salvation Army Luncheon
UK Garrison - Clone Troopers Toy Masters Hasbro Event - The Majestic Hotel, North Yorkshire
Nordic Garrison - Nordic Game Conference - Malmö, Sweden

Thursday May 15
Bloodfin Garrison - Troy Denning Book Signing - North Carmel, IN

Friday May 16
Mexico Garrison -ACME Expo Manga Comic Anime - Durango, Dgo
Southern California Garrison - March of Dimes March for Babies - Simi Valley, CA
Great Lakes Garrison - Motor City ComicCon - Novi, MI

Saturday May 17
Great Lakes Garrison - Motor City ComicCon - Novi, MI
UK Garrison - Toys R Us Brent Cross Store - Toys R Us, London
Florida Garrison - Music of Star Wars and More John Williams Hits - Jacksonville, Florida
Southern California Garrison - OCSWS Saber Academy Appearance - 2200 Commonwealth Fullerton Ca.
Central Garrison - Cystic Fibrosis 'Great Strides' Walk - Lincoln, NE
MidSouth Garrison - St.Jude Children's Research Hospital Kick-A-Thon - Burlington, KY
Central Garrison - I-Con - Iowa State Fairgrounds - Des Moines, IA
Troy Denning Signing - Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia, PA
Garrison Carida - Ranson, WV Festival - Ranson, WV
Garrison Carida - Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Walk - Media, PA
Old Line Garrison - Relay for Life
Garrison Carida - WV Strawberry Festival and Parade
70th Explorers - Art Tougeau Parade - Lawrence, KS
Midwest Garrison - Out Of This World" Sci-Fi costume exhibit @ Oshkosh Public Museum Exhibit Wrap up - Oshkosh, WI
Bloodfin Garrison - Spina Bifida Strikes Back - Woodland bowl, IN
Mountain Garrison - Blood Drive - Albuquerque, NM
Garrison Excelsior - Star Wars Day at Ross Park Zoo - Ross Park Zoo, Binghamton, NY
Alpine Garrison - 2008 CBH MS WALK - Blackfoot and Idaho Falls
Garrison Carida - Free Library Book Festival - Philadelphia, PA

Sunday May 18
Great Lakes Garrison - Motor City ComicCon - Novi, MI
Garrison Carida - Free Library Book Festival - Philadelphia, PA
Mexican Garrison - Tijuana Cospla 08 - Tijuana
Empire City Garrison - Troy Denning Signing - Huntington, NY
Garrison Carida - Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Walks - Wilmington, DE
Old Line Garrison - Great Strides Walk for CFF - Frederick, MD
New England Garrison - Granite State ComicCon - Manchester NH
Golden Gate Garrison - Bay to Breakers race - San Francisco, CA
Bloodfin Garrison - 2008 Great Strides Walk - Millrace Park Columbus, IN
Garrison Excelsior - Walk to Cure Diabetes - TENATIVE - Rochester, NY

Monday May 19
Garrison Excelsior - Webster Library visit - Webster, NY
Outpost 42 - Wellington Armageddon - Wellington, NZ

Tuesday May 20
Outpost 42 - Wellington Armageddon - Wellington, NZ
Florida Garrison - St. Mark's School Spring Concert - Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Southern California Garrison - NCAA Track and Field Championships “Red Carpet Hollywood Welcome Event” kickoff dinner - Building 7 at the Fairplex in Pomona, California

Wednesday May 21
Midwest Garrison -"All Things Star Wars" Public Library Children’s program - Mokena, IL

Thursday May 22
Indiana Jones IV Release

Friday May 23
German Garrison - Science-Fiction Tage - Herxheim am Berg
German Garrison - Promotion für Kaufhof/Gropius Passage - Berlin
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk Montana - Billings, Montana
Mexican Garrison - TOUR CONCOMICS - Guadalajara, Jal
Ohio Garrison - MarCon - Hyatt Regency, Columbus OH
Carolina Garrison - Animazement
70th Explorers - ConQuest 39 - Fanimal House - Kansas City, MO
Canadian Garrison - Anime North - Toronto, Canada

Saturday May 24
Mexican Garrison - TOUR CONCOMICS - Guadalajara, Jal
Ohio Garrison - MarCon - Hyatt Regency, Columbus OH
Carolina Garrison - Animazement
70th Explorers - ConQuesT 39 - Fanimal House - Kansas City, MO
Canadian Garrison - Anime North - Toronto Canada
Canadian Garrison - 2nd Annual Star Wars Event and Toy Show - Welland City Hall
Florida Garrison - ScoutCon 2008 - Tampa, FL
UK Garrison - Toys R Us Southampton - Toys R Us, Hants
California Garrison - Star Wars Day at Paul Biane Library - Paul Biane Library
Florida Garrison - 2008 Autism Walk - Orlando Florida
Mexican Garrison - Star Wars Wedding
German Garrison - Science-Fiction Tage - Herxheim am Berg
Empire City Garrison - Movie and TV World Con - New York City, NY

Sunday May 25
Mexican Garrison - TOUR CONCOMICS - Guadalajara, Jal
Ohio Garrison - MarCon - Hyatt Regency, Columbus OH
Carolina Garrison - Animazement
70th Explorers - ConQuesT 39 - Fanimal House - Kansas City, MO
Canadian Garrison - Anime North - Toronto Canada
Empire City Garrison - Movie and TV World Con - New York City, NY
German Garrison - Science-Fiction Days - Herxheim am Berg

Monday May 26
Outpost 42 - Christchurch Armageddon - Christchurch, New Zealand

Tuesday May 27
Outpost 42 - Christchurch Armageddon - Christchurch, New Zealand

Thursday May 29
Mountain Garrison - Troy Denning Signing - Highlands Ranch, CO

Friday May 30
Florida Garrison - Wrath of Con - Panama City Beach, Florida
Carolina Garrison - Relay for Life - Wilkesboro, NC -
Garrison Titan - Troy Denning Signing - Seattle, WA
Garrison Cardia - Wizard World East - Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia PA

Saturday May 31
Garrison Cardia - Wizard World East - Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia PA
Garrison Carida - Wheeling Walk for Autism - Warwood, WV
Garrison Excelsior -Stroll for Strong Kids - Genesee Valley Park, Rochester, NY
Mountain Garrison - Spectacle - Albuquerque, NM
Carolina Garrison - Relay for Life - Wilkesboro, NC
Cloud City Garrison - The Starlight Parade - Portland, Oregon

Turkish Outpost

The 501st main page has reported a new outpost that has just been started up, this time in Turkey:

501st Turkish Outpost---Bize Katilin!
by tuskentrooper on Tue Apr 15, 2008 11:37 pm
The latest territory conquered by a 501st presence is the Republic of Turkey. Yigit Cetin (TR-1923) has made it his mission to expose Turkish Star Wars fans to costuming, charity and volunteerism. Click here to visit the official 501st Turkish Outpost site where you can practice your Turkish and learn more about the Legion's growing forces in Eurasia.

Here's their webpage: http://www.lejyon501.com/

Podcast #13

Here are the shownotes for the 13th Podcast:

501stCast: Episode 13: April 17, 2008: You Can’t Spell 1138 Without 13.

Will Episode 13 be lucky or unlucky for the 501stCast? You decide as we go an episode without Dean!
Highlights include an exclusive interview with Honorary Member Michael Stackpole, the continuation of our Trooper of the Month series, help us celebrate 501st Legion Day plus numerous mission reports from around the globe.

Show Notes: Episode XIII (April 17, 2008)

Hosts: Rich Sigfrit (IC-9577) and Varza (DZ-8772) and Lor (TK-7883)

Post-Production: Rich Sigfrit (IC-9577)

Content Development: Nicky Blum (DZ-8397)

Contributors: Andrew (TK-3220), TD-0013, Dean Plantamura (TK-899)

• 501st Legion hits 4,000 active members
• Matt Busch’s How to Draw Star Wars with the 501st
• Stump the Trooper #4
• Get Well Soon Kenny Baker (news article)
• Stormtrooper to Wed Queen of Naboo
• The 10th Wonder Heroes podcast
• Heart of an Empire to DVD?
• Krayt Clan Honorary Member Passes
• Jeremy Bulloch is Boba Fett (videos)
• Star Wars-themed Deal or No Deal
• Trooper of the Month Interview: Scott Will (TK-408)
• Exclusive Interview with Honorary Member Michael Stackpole (will be released later)
• Great Lakes Garrison: Icehawks Hockey Game
• Southern California Garrison: Honor our Future Heroes
• Philippine Outpost: Star Wars Slot Machines Debut
• Venezuela: Osecon 2008
• Belgian Garrison: Charity Concert
• Badlands Garrison: Sci-Fi/Comic-themed Art Show
• Trooper Haiku
• Garrison Carida: special Where Science Meets Imagination Troop
• Taiwan Formosa Outpost: Toy Collectibles Exhibition
• Garrison Excelsior: Teen Book Festival
• UK Garrison: London Marathon
• Italian Garrison: Honorary Members donate to Autism auction
• International 501st Legion Day
• Free Comic Book Day
• Quick Calendar by Andrew, TK-3220 & Nicky, DZ-8397 (see below)

• Contest and Giveaway

• Honorary Member Birthday Wishes

  • Hayden Christensen (April 19th)
  • Rob Coleman, ILM Lead Animator (April 27th)
  • Phil Brown (April 30th)
• New 501st Legion unit: Turkish Outpost

Continue reading →

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501st Caught on Camera

Outpost 42 and Bodie Taylor (portrayed the younger clones)

501st Caught on Film

Here's some of the latest videos starring the members of the 501st.

Stormtroopers go Skiing



The 501st Legion CTG at Bridgeport Barnum Parade 2007



501st Gathers for Pictures at C3



Jay Laga'aia, "Captain Typho" Joins the 501st for a Picture



Geek Squad at New York Comic Con 2008 - Star Wars

501st in the News

This just came in via the forums - one of our members made the front page of their company's newsletter with the following article:

Our story begins in a galaxy far, far away. Actually, Texas, 28 years ago. When a 5-year-old boy, sitting in a movie theatre, awestruck, saw “The Empire Strikes Back” for the first time. It would leave an impression for life. Meet Scott Rogers. By day, he’s the man responsible for moving Sony employees to new locations throughout Sony facilities, both on and off the lot. It’s a position that requires the patience of Yoda. “We move an average of five people every day,” Scott says nonchalantly. “In January, we moved 139 people and so far this month (February), we’ve moved 90 people.”
That means coordinating with the various trade unions – movers, IT, telephones, even acquiring furniture – to make the moves happen on time, on budget and to calm the nerves of everybody involved. “Moving is stressful for anybody. It’s all about high customer service, so I spend a lot of time reassuring people. When people ask me how I can remain so calm and collected, I tell them it’s simple. I do it every day. Multiple times.”
Scott comes well-prepared for the responsibility, having majored in social work in college. When he moved to California, some eight years ago, he saw an ad that beckoned: “Would you like to work at a movie studio?”
“It sounded like a lot of fun,” Scott recounts,” and so I applied. I started in the facilities division answering phones and filling out work orders. I became a member of the credit union – so I could get a great rate on a car loan. A year later I was promoted to assist the facilities director, and three years after that I received my current position. It’s been a lot of fun.”
So that’s the Scott who lives on our humble little blue planet. But on weekends, a whole other side of Scott emerges. The Imperial Stormtrooper side.
Scott is a member of the 501st Legion, a worldwide Stars Wars costuming organization – only the “bad guy” costumes; there’s a sister organization
for “good guy” characters – and makes appearances at children’s hospitals, parades, museums and other children’s charity events.
“There are about 200 members in the Los Angeles area, all of whom volunteer 100% of their time and energy.” Their costumes are meticulously hand-made, not the kind of thing you simply go out and buy. For Scott, the 501st is the perfect mesh between a hobby he loves and his passion for social work. “We have an event almost every weekend,” Scott says with pride. For example, “We go to a children’s hospital, we bring games and books and toys, they shoot Nerf darts at the characters ... their whole family usually joins in and we have a great time. When the kids smile and they’re just in awe, that’s the best part. Their eyes go wide, and their jaws drop in amazement; it’s just an incredible feeling and rewarding beyond anything I can describe.”
When they’re not appearing at a children’s charity, 501st members also visit comic book stores in full costume to drum up business for the store and in return, the store donates toys and comic books and all kinds of fun stuff for the kids. People helping people, just like credit unions.
“George Lucas is so impressed with the 501st,” Scott says,”that when he was Grand Marshall of the Rose Parade in 2007, he brought over 400 troopers to Los Angeles from all over the world, on his own nickel – air fares, hotel, food, the works – so we could march in the parade with him.” With a chuckle, Scott adds, “We call Mr. Lucas ‘The Maker.’”
Between his demanding role at Sony, and his charity work, Scott doesn’t have a lot of time, so he’s especially appreciative of the convenience of having First Entertainment right on the lot. “They’re always there for me, and they don’t nickel and dime me with fees like a typical bank. I really appreciate that.”
So Star Wars fans, now you know. Imperial Stormtroopers, Galactic Marines, Clones and for that matter, even Sith Lords, have a heart. And the best part is, they do their giving right in our very own galaxy. If your children’s charity would like to request an appearance of the 501st, go to their website at 501st.com.

Source

Dealing with Sketchy People - Report

Dealing with Sketchy People

Over the weekend, I ran across a couple of rather sketchy people while walking around Church Street. In the 501st, you tend to stick out. The costumes are distinctive and that tends to attract all types of people. 90% of the people that we tend to encounter are awed, shocked, interested and excited to see a Storm Trooper, Scout Trooper, Sand Trooper, Vader, etc. The other 10% are the odd ones, who can be unreasonable, antagonistic or just downright annoying.
When going out into public, Troopers need to make sure of a couple of things. First, they need to ensure that they and their armor is safe, they need to make sure that the people around them are safe and finally, they need to ensure that they uphold the image of the 501st Legion.

Fortunately, instances where you have problem people around are relatively rare. Most Legion events are in fairly controlled settings - a convention, parade, and other types of things in which we're out in public. Contact with passersby is a bit more limited. Other times, some events take place where there's a lot more contact with the general public. Generally, the more people you come into contact with, the more likely it is that you'll come into contact with people who are going to be antagonistic.

There are a couple things that you can do to minimize problems:

1 - Always have a wrangler or handler. They can do a number of things which will stave off most problems - a good save zone in which troopers can operate, they can control who comes close, and in the event of a problem, they can take care of a problem person by diverting them away. In the case of larger groups, multiple wranglers are needed. In the case of the St. Patrick's Day parade, where we had sixty people, we had ten wranglers all spread out, connected with radios. Wranglers can be either officers, who can generally see and move around better, or in plainclothes.

2 - Operate in groups. Safety in numbers is generally a good idea. People are less likely to bother a larger number of troopers, and everyone can look out for one another fairly easily.

3 - Avoid problem groups. Several members of the legion have identified several specific groups of people are potential problems. Small, over excited children and teenagers seem to be one of the dominant problem groups, because they can have a lack of self control and might not know their limits. Avoiding these groups ahead of time, or alerting the wranglers to keep an eye out. Keeping kids away is a good idea - there's a lot of reports of kids rapping on armor, pulling pieces and other similar actions which can damage your kit.

4 - Ignore antagonistic people. While people might feel like they need to snap off a response to someone who's being annoying, it's generally not a good idea. The good thing about armor is that people can't see our faces, and it's a lot easier to ignore people, either by pretending to look in another direction. This past weekend, I came across a woman who I think was pretty high. She was tapping my chest plate, singing loudly and following me, which was attracting attention that I didn't want. Asking her to move along didn't work, so I just started to move on, and she left. Someone suggested to ask them a complicated question, especially someone who has been impaired due to drugs and/or alcohol. When they try and think of the answer, their thought process will likely be slowed down, and when they think of an answer, walk away. If they persist, contact security, or the police, and they can handle it.

5 - Stare down someone who's being antagonistic. This is pretty easy to do when you have a mask. Troopers are intimidating, and staring one down is hard. Probably not a good thing in every case, but in some select instances, it might work.

The bottom line is to avoid making a scene and drawing negative attention. You never want to lash out, yell or drop down to their level. Generally, these problem people are looking for a response, something that validates their behavior. Additionally, it doesn't look good at all for a Storm Trooper to get into any physical confrontation with anybody, because that can lead to larger repercussions, which can affect the squad, outpost, garrison or legion as a whole, which is something that cannot happen.

Women in the 501st and Rebel Legion have a separate category of problems - sexual harassment. This comes in the form of comments or downright unwanted physical encounters, depending on the costume. One thing that the wearer has to keep in mind is the reality of what they are wearing - someone dressed as a Slave Leia is going to attract a lot of unwanted attention from the males (and probably some females) in and around them - something that they have to be prepared for. Some costumes, such as the masked ones, don't reveal figure nearly as much, but even then, problems can arise if someone takes their bucket off. In places like conventions, where there tends to be a lot of socially inept people (sad but true), the attention is going to be even more intense. By some reports, Anime Conventions are the worst, as you tend to have an audience that seems to have less restraint and more enthusiasm.

Once again, the key is to increase your personal protection - keeping your comfort level and safety is paramount, and the Legion's image is a close second. Sexual harassment is a big no in my book, and it shouldn't be tolerated, especially from the somewhat creepy people that turn up at conventions. A wrangler is an absolute must - two is probably better, also depending on what you're wearing.

Bottom line for any outing - Wranglers. Wranglers, wranglers, wranglers. They can help keep people away who you don't want near you, they can keep problems away and they can do things like hold a camera and take pictures. And pick up any pieces that you might drop.

Update on Kenny Baker

Kenny Baker is apparently still in the hospital after getting sick sometime last week, where he apparently nearly died. Full article here.

Here's to hoping for a full recovery!

4000 and Climbing

Today, the legion marks a bit of a milestone - 4000 active members! The honor goes to Brian Robinson, LID # 2918, of Garrison Tyranus, who's joined the ranks as a Storm Trooper. This is the the largest that the legion has ever been, ever.

Now, how long before 5000?

New Clone Wars Trailer!

A new trailer for the Clone Wars animated series has appeared online (and has been taken down on youtube.) Take a look here.


Here's the original trailer:



I'm really excited for these. The animation looks good, and it looks like there'll be a lot of action.

Interesting Picture

This picture comes out of the recent lawsuit (previously reported here). I just thought that it was a neat depiction.

Events Report - April 11th - May 1st

The following are the events reported between April 11th and May 1st, 2008. Please note that all events are subject to change without notice, and to contact the hosting garrison for up to date information:

Friday Apr 11
New England Garrison - Spacewood Derby - Dracut MA
Old Line Garrison - Cub Scout "Flights of Fancy"
Star Garrison South Texas Squad - American Cancer Society: Relay for Life - Baytown, TX
Mississippi Outpost - Coast Con - Biloxi, Mississippi

Saturday Apr 12
Star Garrison South Texas Squad - American Cancer Society: Relay for Life - Baytown, TX
Mississippi Outpost - Coast Con - Biloxi, Mississippi
Garrison Carida - Phillies vs The Chicago Cubs - "Kids Opening Night" at Citizens Bank Park - Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia, PA
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk Salt Lake at the Gateway - Salt Lake City, UT
Florida Garrison - A Friend For Daisy Benefit Concert - Tampa, FL
Great Lakes Garrison - Rivertown Convention - Grand Rapids, MI
Florida Garrison - St. Pete Festival of States Day - St. Pete Florida
Garrison Carida - Walk Now for Autism - Allentown, PA
Star Garrison Crimson Nova Squad - Little Rock Comic Book Convention - Little Rock, AR
Canadian Garrison - Toronto ComiCon Fan Appreciation event - Metro Toronto Convention Center, Toronto, ON
70th Explorers - 5th Annual Walk for Autism Awareness - 1901 NW Parkway, Unity Village, Lees Su, MO

Sunday Apr 13
Mississippi Outpost - Coast Con - Biloxi, Mississippi
Florida Garrison - Tampa Comic Book & Toy Convention - Tampa, FL
UK Garrison - London Marathon - Go Out to Support Steve and Ray! - London, UK
Empire City Garrison - Maria Fareri Children's Hospital - Valhalla, NY

Friday Apr 18
Nordic Garrison - The Exhibition marketing event - Arlanda airport, Stockholm, Sweden
Southern California Garrison - Boys and Girls Club Carnival - 2200 E Commonwealth Fullerton, Ca
New England Garrison - Hasbro Bring you kids to Work Day - Pawtucket, RI
Great Lakes Garrison - PenguiCon 6.0 CANCELED - Troy, MI
Florida Garrison - Relay for Life - Jacksonville, Florida
Mountin Garrison - Starfest - Denver, CO
Dutch Garrison - FedCon - Bonn
Midwest Garrison - PenguinCon - Troy MI
Empire City Garrison - New York Comic Con - Javits Center, NYC, NY
Pacific Outpost - Kawaii Kon - Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii/Hawaii Convention Center

Saturday Apr 19
Florida Garrison - Relay for Life - Jacksonville, Florida
Mountin Garrison - Starfest - Denver, CO
Dutch Garrison - FedCon - Bonn
Midwest Garrison - PenguinCon - Troy MI
Empire City Garrison - New York Comic Con - Javits Center, NYC, NY
Pacific Outpost - Kawaii Kon - Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii/Hawaii Convention Center
Italian Garrison - Autism Walk-a-Thon & Silent Auction - Aviano Air Base
Alabama Garrison - Magnolia Festival - Gardendale
Alpine Garrison -Dixie Escalante Electric Kite Festival - Utah
Old Line Garrison - East Columbia Library
Florida Garrison - Relay For Life / American Cancer Society
Southern California Garrison - MS WALK 2008
Florida Garrison - Celebration Exotic Car Festival
Midwest Garrison - Children's Festival - Wisconsin Rapids, WI
70th Explorers - St. Patrick's Day Parade - Springfield , MO
Empire City Garrison - WHUD Kids Fair - White Plains, NY
German Garrison - FEDCON XVII - Godesberger Allee, Bonn
Florida Garrison - Great Strides fund raising walk - Tallahassee, FL
UK Garrison- Salute 2008 - ExCeL, London
Canadian Garrison - SciFi on the Rock - Holiday Inn in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
Midwest Garrison - Prairie Air Show - Peoria Airport

Sunday Apr 20
Mountin Garrison - Starfest - Denver, CO
Dutch Garrison - FedCon - Bonn
Midwest Garrison - PenguinCon - Troy MI
Empire City Garrison - New York Comic Con - Javits Center, NYC, NY
Pacific Outpost - Kawaii Kon - Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii/Hawaii Convention Center
Canadian Garrison - SciFi on the Rock - Holiday Inn in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
Midwest Garrison - Prairie Air Show - Peoria Airport
Southern California Garrison - EarthFair 2008 - Balboa Park, Southern San Diego
Great Lakes Garrison - Relay for Life Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser - South Lyon, MI
UK Garrison - Sheffield Childrens Hospital 10k Raceday - Sheffield Children's Hospital, Sheffield
Badlands Garrison - Edmonton Collectible Toy and Comic Show - Edmonton, Alberta
Costa Rica Outpost - Earth Day Celebration

Friday Apr 25
Alpine Garrison - SOUTHWEST SYMPHONY / Science Centre fund raiser - TENATIVE
Great Lakes Garrison - Albion College Spring Concert - Albion, MI
Florida Garrison - Family Fun Day II - Miami, FL
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London

Saturday Apr 26
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London
70th Explorers - Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis
Badlands Garrison - The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo
Midwest Garrison - Cape ComicCon - Cape Girardeau MO
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Provo Utah
Dune Sea Garrison - 5K for JA / KidsRockStars - Tempe Town Lake Arts Park
Star Garrison, Crimson Nova Squad - Sparks in the Park - Benton, Arkansas
Southern California Garrison - "Meet and Greet" BBQ - Long Beach, CA
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Ogeden, UT
Florida Garrison - Our Kids World Family Fun Fest - Florida
German Garrison - Tattoo Convention 2008 - Frankfurt
Dune Sea Garrison - Tucson! March of Dimes: 3k March for Babies! - Tuscon AZ
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk - Cedar City, UT
Apline Garrison - MS Walk - Vernal, UT
Florida Garrison - March of Dimes March for Babies 2008 - Tampa Bay, FL
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
New England Garrison - Relay For Life - TENATIVE - Norwich University, Northfield, VT 05663
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping archade, Whitby

Sunday Apr 27
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
New England Garrison - Relay For Life - TENATIVE - Norwich University, Northfield, VT 05663
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping archade, Whitby
Garrison Tyranus - March for Babies - VA Beach
Mountain Garrison - Breast Cancer Walk
70th Explorers - Kid's Trolley Run 2008 - Mill Creek Park, JC Nichols Parkway, Kansas City, MO
Dewback Ridge Squad - Breast Cancer Walk - Albuquerque, NM
Mexican Garrison - Día del Niño en Casa Alianza - Casa Alianza
Capitol City Squad - MS Walk
Costa Rica Outpost - Earth Day Celebration

Wednesday Apr 30
Mexican Garrison - Tabasco - Galerias Tabasco 2000 día del niño

Thursday May 1
UK Garrison - Sci~Fi London Convention - Apollo Theatre, London

Stats -
Jan - 27
Feb - 50
March - 95
April - 107

Total Reported this year: 556

501st Caught on Camera

Here's a bunch of pictures that surfaced this week on flickr and other places:

Great success!

Noooooooo!

NEG @ the Hasboro Inny Awards

I just love this picture

A couple reading pictures for some reason. Remember kids, cool Imperials stay in school.

Group shot of the Science Meets Imagination opening.

A bunch from I-Con:

And a couple of pictures just uploaded of the NEG in Boston:

501st on Film

3 videos this past week with the members of the 501st, all pretty good ones:

THE GAMER LIFE meets THE 501st Cloud City Garrison

501st Recruitment & PR Troop

501 Italica Garrison - The Return of Vader Fist -

Free Comic Book Day - Coming Up

This was an interesting reminder in the Post-Journal in New York - they highlighted a comic book store, Chautauqua Comics. Already, this event is shaping up to be a big one for the 501st. There are around 30 or so events planned by a number of garrisons across the country.

Here's the article:

Local Store To Participate In Free Comic Book Day
By Jessica Wasmund jwasmund@post-journal.com


4/11/2008 - For the millions of people across the globe who have grown up reading comic books, and those who have always been curious to pick one up, there is a chance to celebrate.
The seventh annual Free Comic Book Day will take place again this year on Saturday, May 3.
‘‘Anywhere in the world there’s a shop, free comic book day is happening,’’ said Al Steffens, owner of Chautauqua Comics. ‘‘This is an attempt to get people not only excited about comics, but back into reading through comic books.’’
Last year, Steffens said, more than 1,200 people came through the door of his shop, located at 214 Fairmount Ave., to partake in the event.
‘‘Since the shop is only 1,500 square feet, we’re talking a lot of people — the line was out the door and around the corner with people waiting to come in,’’ he said. ‘‘This year we’re hoping to do it all over again.’’
Each year to celebrate, the comic book industry produces a number of brand new comic books for the occasion. The distributor will then send them out at an inexpensive price, and the shops will in turn give them away for free. Steffens explained that anybody who comes to his shop that day will get two books for free. If they choose to donate $.50 or more toward St. Susan’s soup kitchen, they will receive an additional third comic.
‘‘We really want to make a difference and this is our second year working with St. Susan’s,’’ Steffens said. ‘‘I realize there’s a lot of people out there who aren’t as fortunate as others, and I want to make a difference. Jamestown has been very good to me, so I want to give back. Also, if they sign up for our Web site, they can get a fourth comic book, also free.’’
To commemorate the event, the shop will be running a series of events throughout the day. There will be door prizes, a raffle for a lithograph, a Narauto tournament and for those who deem themselves experts of comic trivia, Comic Book Jeopardy.
Chautauqua Comics will also be grilling hot dogs outside, and special guest appearances will be made by a few of the most well-known superheros, including Spider-Man, Iron Man and Batman.
‘‘What makes this year a little more special is we have Roger Stern,’’ Steffens said. Stern is the author of The New York Times bestseller ‘‘The Death and Life of Superman.’’ Stern has been writing comic books for more than 30 years, composing stories for characters such as the Green Lantern, Spider-Man and Captain America. Steffens said Stern is also credited with writing the story on which the third installment of the Spider-Man movie was based.
‘‘We are also going to have members from the Star Wars 501st Legion, which is a group of guys who spend large amounts of money to replicate the Star Wars costumes,’’ he explained. ‘‘They’re all around the country and sanctioned by George Lucas. We’ll be having four of them coming down from Syracuse and Pennsylvania — a couple storm troopers and maybe even Darth Vader. They’ll be outside entertaining the crowds while people are waiting to get in.’’
Full Article

I'm going to be at Earth Prime Comics in Burlington Vermont, hopefully with another trooper or two. I know the New England Garrison will be at several locations, as well as a bunch of others.
Oddly, I've never been able to participate in Free Comic Book Day - There's always been something that's precluded me from attending. Not this year!

Kenny Baker Hospitalized

Word has been filtering through the legion - Honorary Member Kenny Baker has been hospitalized and is currently in a coma. No further information at this time.

There's a little conflicting information at this time, with one report that he's in the hospital, and another from his agency stating that he fell ill on a plane, was hospitalized but has since been released.

More as I get it.

Jeremy Bolloch Gets his Own Armor

Jeremy Bolloch, one of our honorary members and actor who portrayed Boba Fett in the Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, was recently awarded his own set of ESB accurate armor. I've been hearing about this for a little while now, and here's a video of him being presented with the armor:

http://www.dallasnews.com/video/dallasnews/hp/index.html?nvid=234252&shu=1

The armor was pooled together by members of the Dented Helmet, a big costuming resource/group and RebelScum.These guys built and donated the entire set to him. It's a wonderful effort, a really neat thing to give back to an actor.

It's really, really cool to see that.

Dealing with sketchy people

I've been running this 501st blog for a couple months now, mainly reporting articles and pictures and things, as well as things I do with my armor and events.
Over this past weekend, on a troop, I was approached by a number of... well, sketchy people. A couple were the regular homeless on Church street, another was an odd woman ("Are you a space man? Are you going to space?", then about face, walked away) and a woman who was high off of her mind.
The first three weren't bad, but the last one wouldn't go away for a couple minutes (she kept poking me in the chest, asking nonsensical questions and singing, loudly and badly) - it's not exactly the type of attention I want, especially when there are kids around.

What are some encounters that you have had while out in public?

The reason I bring this up is I'm planning on doing a write up based on some of my personal experiences for reference - how do you deal with people like this? How do you protect yourself?

I had a wrangler for both days out in public, and in other public events, but at times, even they are at their limits.

Armor in Court!

I've gotten a number of e-mails regarding this - George Lucas and LFL has sued Andrew Ainsworth, the original maker of the Storm Trooper armor, for selling the armor as costumes without proper liscening. LFL has for years guarded its copyrights very closely, bringing up numerous court battles for infringement. In this instance, the armor was being sold for profit, with Ainsworth saying that he was the owner of the armor, and I believe has counter sued. I personally don't think that he has a case, as he was hired for the job, and was not the owner of the armor. The case was first won in 2006 in the US, and it has now gone over to the UK, where it will likely be resolved.
Armor makers for the 501st, I don't believe will have to worry too much. We have good relations with LFL, and we don't sell our armor for profit.

Here's a couple of articles:

Court to rule in Star Wars costume battle
Sarah Knapton
Monday April 7, 2008
The Guardian

Star Wars premiere in Leicester Square, May 16 2005
'Stormtroopers' gather in Leicester Square for the premiere of Episode III. Photograph: Lefteris Pitarakis/AP
They were Darth Vader's feared henchmen and some of the most recognisable figures in cinematic history. Now the imperial stormtroopers of the Star Wars films are at the centre of a new epic battle.
The British prop designer who created their famous white helmets and body armour is being sued by director George Lucas for £10m in a case starting at the high court tomorrow. Andrew Ainsworth was sued by the director's company, Lucasfilm, after reproducing the outfits from the original moulds and selling them for up to £1,800 each .
Ainsworth is countersuing Lucasfilm for a share of the £6bn merchandising revenue generated since the first film in the series premiered in 1977. The row centres on who actually owns the copyright to the stormtrooper uniforms.
Ainswoth said: "As far as I am concerned I am the original maker and I'm using the original moulds."
The prop designer was recruited to design the outfits in 1976 and sold the firsts 50 helmets to Lucas for £35 each. But in 2004 he discovered one of the original helmets in a cupboard in his home in Twickenham, south-west London and began to manufacture the uniforms.
A message on his website said: "Now's your chance to own your own piece of movie history."
A California court has already ruled in favour of Lucas who was awarded £10m in damages. But because Ainsworth lives in Britain Lucas needs the high court in London to enforce the order.
A spokesman for Lucas Licensing said: "We would never want to discourage fans from showcasing their enthusiasm for the movies. However, anyone who tried to profit from using our copyrights and trademarks without authorisation ... we will go after them."
http://film.guardian.co.uk/news/story/0,,2271561,00.html

Lucasfilm Wins Lawsuit Against Stormtrooper Pirate
October 11, 2006

The U.S. District Court for the Central District of California has awarded Lucasfilm Ltd. $20 million in damages in a copyright infringement and unfair competition case against the British firm Shepperton Design Studios and its owner, Andrew Ainsworth.
The court found that Shepperton Design Studios had been marketing unlicensed copies of stormtrooper helmets and costumes, and TIE fighter pilot helmets from the Star Wars films, as well as making misleading claims about the authenticity and origins of these items.
The judgment, by U.S. District Judge R. Gary Klausner, awards damages to Lucasfilm Ltd. for copyright infringement, unfair competition and trademark infringement and permanently bars Shepperton Design Studios from copying, reproducing, importing, licensing, marketing or displaying any of its unauthorized Star Wars products in the United States. Lucasfilm is also pursuing legal action against Shepperton in the U.K., where the company is based, to ensure that the judgment is enforced there.
"Lucasfilm vigorously protects its intellectual property rights in Star Wars," said Howard Roffman, President of Lucas Licensing. "Infringers like Shepperton need to understand that we will pursue them anywhere in the world to shut them down and seek restitution."
Roffman noted that many Star Wars fans around the world produce replicas of Star Wars costumes for their own personal use and enjoyment, an activity to which Lucasfilm Ltd. has no objection. One such group, the "501st Legion" of stormtroopers, is a global organization that has often worked with Lucasfilm and its partners. "We appreciate that Star Wars has sparked the imaginations of fans around the world," he said. "We would never want to discourage fans from showcasing their enthusiasm for the movies. However, anyone who tries to profit from using our copyrights and trademarks without authorization crosses the line; they become an infringer and we will go after them."

Stormtrooper In Court For Star Wars Legal Fight
By REUTERS
Published: April 8, 2008

Filed at 9:08 p.m. ET
LONDON (Reuters) - A judge in a wig and gown gazed down on a Stormtrooper costume and nine masks from the "Star Wars" films at London's High Court on Tuesday at the start of a high-profile copyright case.
George Lucas, creator of the blockbuster intergalactic sagas, and his billion-dollar merchandising arm are suing Andrew Ainsworth, a small-scale prop designer who sells replicas of the film characters from his southwest London studio.
Lucasfilm and related parties have already won a 2006 court case against Ainsworth in California, where the judge awarded the firm $20 million (10.1 million pounds) in damages, and they are now seeking to have a similar ruling enforced here.
According to a short summary of the case provided by Ainsworth's lawyers, he argues that the copyright on the items in the courtroom has expired, and even if it has not, that he owns it, and not Lucas.
"Hence the defendants are counterclaiming in respect of unauthorized making and issue, distribution and sale of toys and costumes which are copies of the disputed items."
Michael Bloch, lawyer for Lucasfilm Ltd, opened proceedings by arguing that the design for the Stormtroopers and other key characters from the films were well advanced by the time Ainsworth was asked to produce the costumes in 1976.
"By the time Mr. Ainsworth was brought in to make the Stormtrooper helmet, the look to be created had been worked on by a large number of people for perhaps more than a year," he said.
The designs "were pretty well fixed in 1975 and they involve the initial idea of George Lucas worked on then by Ralph McQuarrie and others." McQuarrie was the conceptual artist and design consultant for the original "Star Wars" trilogy.
At stake are the rights to merchandise worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
Total merchandising revenue since the first Star Wars movie in 1977 is estimated at around $12 billion, and total box office takings from the six movies is about $4 billion.
As well as the full Stormtrooper costume, masks of characters including a TIE fighter pilot and Tusken Raider were arranged on the front bench of the court room.
Ainsworth sells his replicas of the Stormtrooper helmet and armor, as well the masks for an array of other key characters, from Shepperton Design Studios.
The full set of armor normally retails at 995 pounds ($2,000), although the company does not supply U.S. customers.
Lucas' side is expected to argue that Ainsworth was working for the studio under an implied contract, whereas the prop designer counters that "no written contract was entered into and Andrew Ainsworth was not employed by Lucasfilm."
There may also be legal debate over whether the uniforms were industrial design or works of art, which could affect the length of copyright protection.
The case, expected to last for 10 days, continues.
http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/arts/entertainment-starwars.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=star+wars&st=nyt&oref=slogin

501st on CNN 360°

CNN's 360° feature has a picture of us from the Rose Bowl parade up, and is asking for captions. Here's some of the better ones:

• The next wave of fighters getting ready to deploy to Iraq…the stormtroopers.
• The stormtroopers going to rescue the Olympic torch.
• In defiance of friend Steven Spielberg, director George Lucas provided the Chinese government with additional security for the Olympic torch relay.
• President Dick Cheney’s inaugural parade stepped off right on time today……………………..
• The IOC decides to use storm troopers to protect the Olympic torch from being distinguished
• After the explosion of the Death Star, the shortages of jobs led troopers to take an unorthodox approach to employment.
• We’ll see who will stop the torch now …
• Just keep smiling, with these flags, they’ll never guess we aren’t from their planet…
• This is what happens when the Wookie costumes get held up at the drycleaners…
• Stormtroopers do it in formation.
• Two stormtroopers walk into a bar. The third one ducks.
• Where’s Waldo
• Reagan’s Star Wars has finally been put into action!
• “MMM, escort torch to Bejing, do you?”
• Comment from Yoda, Dagoba, as the Olympic Torch escorts, adorned with 100% made in China armor, transport the Olympic torch through downtown San Fran.

I bolded my favorites. You can see the rest of the responses here.

Pictures from Northeast Wars

Pictures from walking around Church Street in Burlington Vermont. First two are on Saturday, and the second two are from Sunday:

I need a neck seal...

Annick and I.

We definitely turned a lot of heads on the street. Church Street is a predestrian walking mall, and there were a lot of people there. I'll post up more pictures as I get them. (Thanks for Found_Drama for the bottom two images. )

Post Con Repairs & Modifications

Any event that I go out to generally has a bit of wear and tear on my armor. I was in for extended amounts of time this weekend, up to 5-6 hours at a time over the past couple of days.

Looking over my armor, I need to do the following things:

- Clean shin/thigh pieces - interiors has gotten grimy from use and could use a good washing.
- Polish various parts - I've accumulated numerous scratches and marks all over, which need to be buffed out. I've got some cleaner that I can use, which works great.
- Reglue velcro and seams - Mainly on the legs, which moves around the most. Taking them apart and putting them together a lot has been pulling on it. DONE
- Wash Jumpsuit. Yeah, this is needed.
- Wash Camelback. DONE

So far, I've reglued the seams on my Right and Left thigh pieces, the left shin and the interior velcro pieces that hold the thigh plates in place.
Looking over a couple of photos from the event, and a consistant problem that I came across while suiting up was the mic wire going to the amplifier.
I found that placing the amplifier under the chest piece didn't work too well - people couldn't really hear me, and the volume wasn't loud enough, so it'll stay on my belt for now. Additionally, I found that where I placed the mic was not great - it was too far from my mouth, so I placed it towards the center of the snout, near my mouth, so it should work better now.



Because the wire kept coming out in the front, I've adjusted how I'll put it on, running the wire up my back through to the back of the helmet, and through the side of the helmet with duct tape tabs and velcro, so it can be easily removed if needed. I also numbered each tab and velcro strip to keep it straight. Now, the wire doesn't go go out the front, which is good, and it's got enough slack so that I can take off the helmet and hold on to it comfortably.



Lastly, I found the best placement for my Camelback, which I've started wearing to Troops, especially once it starts warming up. TK armor traps a lot of heat, and I'm guessing that I'm loosing a lot of water when I'm in it. Given that I'm wearing a helmet, it's not practical to carry a waterbottle, and I found that the Camelback that I used for hiking works perfectly under the water. It's small and thin enough to fit under my chest plate. I found that wearing it on my back doesn't work well, but wearing it on the front works really well. From there, I looped the tube up and around and under the edge of the chest plate, where I can get to it easily when I need it.

Lastly, I really need to get a neck seal and some fans.

What do Storm Troopers have to do with St. Patrick's Day?

Just after the St. Patrick's Day parade, the communications director had me do a writeup on the 501st and what I do with it. Here's what I came up with:

In a word, nothing. However, if you were in Boston for the South Boston Saint Patrick's Day parade, you might have seen a number of people dressed in the manner of the characters from the Star Wars movies. Odd, considering that the last Star Wars movie was released in 2005, with no other feature films planned (although there will be an animated, CGI feature coming in August).

I belong to an organization called the 501st Legion, a group that's dedicated to costuming on the Imperial side of the Star Wars films. We portray the bad guys (or, as we like to say, we're the good guys fighting for the wrong people), and our sister group, the Rebel Legion, does the good guys. I'm a member of the New England Garrison, which covers Vermont, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. (Connecticut has their own garrison).

Generally, we're functional adults, hold jobs and share a passion for the Star Wars movies - where some people spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on antique cars, golf and other 'socially accepted' things, we put money into making screen accurate costumes, which have been hailed, by Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and George Lucas (the series creator) as better than the costumes in the filming of the episodes.

Why would someone do this? Or, why would any normal person do this?

I do this because of one reason - we bring a certain type of joy to people, mainly children, who share a passion for things that most adults don't. Often, when I've marched in a parade, attended a convention or have been out in armor, kids who see me and my fellow legion members will light up. Star Wars captured my imagination as a child, and does so for many people today - seeing something like that, for a child, is mind-blowing, inspiring and exciting. Seeing a kid get excited seeing something from their favorite film is more than enough reward.

We don't just walk around and just exist. One of the primary motives for the group's existence has been charity work. Two years ago, Katie Johnson, the daughter of the Legion's founder, died of a brain tumor, after a lengthy battle with cancer, at a very young age. The group rallied around her family and sick children everywhere - we raise money for funds to help research cancer treatments, we walk in charity walks, visit children in hospitals, all to help make something of a difference for them. Their world is hard enough, and the hope is that we can do something memorable, and maybe make a difference in their lives.

My start with this came in late 2003, as a college undergrad. I purchased a suit of storm trooper armor (or, if you want to get technical, an FX TK Suit), put it on, did some Halloween things, attended a couple conventions and parades since then, while working with the group, tracking the world wide events that go on. I've just started contributing to the legion's history project and their bi-weekly podcast.

It's a hobby that's really out there. We catch a lot of flak from people who don't understand why we do this sort of thing. We're not a group of geeks who don't have a life. I can easily say that the group is like an extended family. Our events double as reunions from people of all walks of life and places in society.

Currently, there's just under five thousand members on every continent, and we're out every week, somewhere in the world, trying to make the world a better place.

It's up here.

Events Report: Northeast Wars

This past weekend, I attended Northeast Wars: The Resurrection in Burlington, Vermont. The con has been on a haitus for the past ten years, and has recently returned, sponsored by Vermont's biggest gaming store, Quarterstaff.

The con attracted around 160 people over the course of three days, from April 4th through the 6th, a good number for something that was really only in planning for 3 or 4 months. The gaming was spread out over a couple of large rooms, split up by miniatures, RPGs, board games, war gaming and cards, and a couple local vendors. Overall, this was a really small, quaint con, that was quite a bit of fun to walk around for.

My role was pretty limited - basically walking and talking to people. Given the size of the event, the shock and awe factor really wore off quick, and I only spent a couple hours walking around as a TK. I did pose for some pictures, threw a couple people into a wall, the usual trooper things to do, and people really liked the 501st's presence there.

What really was fun was helping advertise for the con on the nearby Church Street, a pedestrian shopping street. With a handler on Saturday, and a girl dressed up as a ESB Han Solo on Sunday, handing out fliers and posing for pictures. This doubled as a really good recruiting and presence for the group and for the convention - we handed out several hundred fliers.

I've also discovered a couple additional storm troopers in the state, someone from St. Albans, who seems to have slipped under the NEG's radar for a time. I was also approached by someone on the street who asked if I was wearing an FX Suit - apparently he has one as well, local to Burlington, and was not a member, nor was he aware of the 501st. I told him about the website and that I'd be helping out at the Free Comic Book Day at Earth Prime Comics, so hopefully he will find, contact and join us, which will help bolster our Vermont numbers a bit. (4 additional, up from just two that we were aware of, not including 1 inactive - Five total. Figure in three to five recruits or potential recruits and we have the start of some good numbers in Vermont.)

The con itself was a good recruiting oppertunity. There are a handful of people who were interested in the 501st, and I answered a number of questions about what we do, and what the NEG has been up to. The girl who was dressed as Han Solo and her husband seemed really interested, and I ended up posting several of our recruiting fliers, as well as laid them out at the table - a number were taken. Several more have been placed at Quarterstaff Games and Earthprime Comics

The organizers are planning on doing this next year, and with more planning, have invited us back, and we'll have some more opportunities for donations to a charity organization, plus some things we could do on our own. Hopefully by that time, we'll be able to get more people here for this. While 1 TK worked, more would be better. He might also have us help out next year prior to the con to help advertise a bit, such as going out a couple weeks before hand to get more attention.

Wranglers will also be a must, especially for the Church Street excursions - There were a lot of people there, and it was helpful to have someone carrying fliers and explaining things to people, taking pictures, etc. There were also a couple annoying people - a couple drunks, one guy who pulled my gun and one particularly annoying woman who I think was pretty high. While Annick (my Han Solo companion) was helpful, this was something that we both weren't prepared for, and I think having a plainclothes person would be helpful. At the con, I had no issues at all. I need to remember a camera with fresh batteries next time though. Mine died and I didn't get any pictures for the weekend. Urg.

Jonathan, the general manager of Quarterstaff games, was extremely helpful, and really, really loved having me there to help out and walk around. He's going to keep in touch to let me know if they have any further events - Free COmic Book Day is one upcoming one - that they'll have in the store, and he's pretty connected to the local geek community, which should be helpful once the Clone Wars series hits theaters. This is an event that has a lot of potential and if I'm around and free, I'll be there.

Very fitting that I return home to find a Star Wars marathon on TV.

Lucas at Cartoon Network Upfronts

This just came across the wires: Lucas was in NYC yesterday to talk about the upcoming Clone Wars series:

UPFRONT & CENTER: Cartoon Network Uses the Force
George Lucas Appears at Upfront Presentation to Tout Star Wars: The Clone Wars; Cable Network Unveils ‘Two-Pronged, 360-Degree Programming Strategy’
By Alex Weprin -- Broadcasting & Cable, 4/3/2008 12:14:00 PM

New York -- The force is with us. That was the message Cartoon Network sent to advertisers and media buyers at its upfront presentation here Thursday morning.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars

Bolstered by the star power of George Lucas, the network unveiled a new programming strategy and previewed its new series and initiatives, including the “Cartoonstitute” and an expanded partnership with the Food and Drug Administration on its “Spot the Block” campaign.

To kick off the event, Cartoon previewed its highly anticipated animated Star Wars series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Star Wars creator Lucas, flanked by four armed storm troopers, took to the stage to show a clip from the program and answer questions from Turner Animation president and chief operating officer Stuart Snyder.

Full Article

Yep, those were 501st people! One from the New England Garrison, and the others from Empire City, I believe. There'll probably be more about this in the next week or so.

501st Caught on Camera

A bunch of videos this week. Here's some good ones.

501st: MEPD Sandtroopers

Captain Jack and the Troopers

Trooper Hodown

The Guys In White

501st Childrens' Hospital Visit

Polish Outpost - Pyrkon 2008 wejście

Star Wars Stormtrooper E-11 Blaster

Events Report - April 4 - April 30

The following events have been reported between today, April 4th and April 30th, 2008. Please remember that all events can change without notice and to contact the hosting garrison for assistance.

Friday Apr 4
Midwest Garrison - Chicagoland Entertainment Collectors Expo - Carol Stream, IL
New England Garrison - Northeast Wars VIII - Burlington Vermont
Empire City Garrison - I-Con - Stonybrook, Long Island, NY
Costa Rica Outpost - 6th Cartago's Manga Fest - Cartago, Costa Rica

Saturday Apr 5
Midwest Garrison - Chicagoland Entertainment Collectors Expo - Carol Stream, IL
New England Garrison - Northeast Wars VIII - Burlington Vermont
Empire City Garrison - I-Con - Stonybrook, Long Island, NY
Costa Rica Outpost - 6th Cartago's Manga Fest - Cartago, Costa Rica
Central Garrison - Omaha Beef Game - Omaha, NE
Southern California Garrison - Honoring Our Future Heroes - Iraq and Afghanistan at Naval medical Center San Diego
Old Line Garrison - Edgewater Library
Florida Garrison - UCF HUGME Foundation Bbq - Orlando Florida
Dutch Garrison - Collecters convention - Jaarbeurs Utrecht
Garrison Excelsior - Teen Book Festival w/ Timothy Zahn
Central Garrison - Planet Comicon - Kansas City, MO
Belgian Garrison - Houthalen-Helchteren
Florida Garrison - Family Fun Day - 5145 ORANGE GROVE BLVD, NORTH FT MYERS, florida
Mountain Garrison - MS Walk - Las Cruces, NM
Canadian Garrison - Toronto Symphony Orchestra - Young Peoples Concert - Roy Thomson Hall, 60 Simcoe Street, Toronto, ON
Cloud City Garrison - Children's Miracle Network Radiothon - Eugene, Oregon
70th Explorers - Kansas City Planet Comicon
Nordic Garrison - Scandinavian Sci-Fi, Game and Film Convention
Florida Garrison - The Florida International Air

Sunday Apr 6
New England Garrison - Northeast Wars VIII - Burlington Vermont
Empire City Garrison - I-Con - Stonybrook, Long Island, NY
Costa Rica Outpost - 6th Cartago's Manga Fest - Cartago, Costa Rica
70th Explorers - Kansas City Planet Comicon
Nordic Garrison - Scandinavian Sci-Fi, Game and Film Convention
Florida Garrison - The Florida International Air
UK Garrison - Heroes and Legends II - Dolphin Hotel, Swansea
UK Garrison - Collectors Fair - Grundy Leisure Centre, Cheshunt
Garrison Carida - Cooper Hospital Childrens Wing Visit - Camden, NJ
Great Lakes Garrison - Port Huron Icehawks Star Wars Night - Port Huron, MI

Wednesday Apr 9
New England Garrison - Hasbro Inny Awards - Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) in downtown Providence, RI

Thursday Apr 10
Great Lakes Garrison - East Grand Rapids Library Star Wars Day - East Grand Rapids, MI

Friday Apr 11
Old Line Garrison - Cub Scout "Flights of Fancy"
Star Garrison South Texas Squad - American Cancer Society: Relay for Life - Baytown, TX
Mississippi Outpost - Coast Con - Biloxi, Mississippi

Saturday Apr 12
Star Garrison South Texas Squad - American Cancer Society: Relay for Life - Baytown, TX
Mississippi Outpost - Coast Con - Biloxi, Mississippi
Alpine Garrison - MS Walk Salt Lake at the Gateway - Salt Lake City, UT
Florida Garrison - A Friend For Daisy Benefit Concert - Tampa, FL
Great Lakes Garrison - Rivertown Convention - Grand Rapids, MI
Florida Garrison - St. Pete Festival of States Day - St. Pete Florida
Star Garrison Crimson Nova Squad - Little Rock Comic Book Convention - Little Rock, AR
Canadian Garrison - Toronto ComiCon Fan Appreciation event - Metro Toronto Convention Center, Toronto, ON
70th Explorers - 5th Annual Walk for Autism Awareness - 1901 NW Parkway, Unity Village, Lees Su, MO

Sunday Apr 13
Mississippi Outpost - Coast Con - Biloxi, Mississippi
Florida Garrison - Tampa Comic Book & Toy Convention - Tampa, FL
UK Garrison - London Marathon - Go Out to Support Steve and Ray! - London, UK
Empire City Garrison - Maria Fareri Children's Hospital - Valhalla, NY

Friday Apr 18
Southern California Garrison - Boys and Girls Club Carnival - 2200 E Commonwealth Fullerton, Ca
New England Garrison - Hasbro Bring you kids to Work Day - Pawtucket, RI
Great Lakes Garrison - PenguiCon 6.0 - Troy, MI
Florida Garrison - Relay for Life - Jacksonville, Florida
Mountain Garrison - Starfest - Denver, CO
Dutch Garrison - FedCon - Bonn
Midwest Garrison - PenguinCon - Troy MI
Empire City Garrison - New York Comic Con - Javits Center, NYC, NY
Pacific Outpost - Kawaii Kon - Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii/Hawaii Convention Center

Saturday Apr 19
Florida Garrison - Relay for Life - Jacksonville, Florida
Mountain Garrison - Starfest - Denver, CO
Dutch Garrison - FedCon - Bonn
Midwest Garrison - PenguinCon - Troy MI
Empire City Garrison - New York Comic Con - Javits Center, NYC, NY
Pacific Outpost - Kawaii Kon - Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii/Hawaii Convention Center
Italian Garrison - Autism Walk-a-Thon & Silent Auction - Aviano Air Base
Alabama Garrison - Magnolia Festival - Gardendale
Old Line Garrison - East Columbia Library
Florida Garrison - Relay For Life / American Cancer Society
Southern California Garrison - MS WALK 2008
Florida Garrison - Celebration Exotic Car Festival
Midwest Garrison - Children's Festival - Wisconsin Rapids, WI
70th Explorers - St. Patrick's Day Parade - Springfield , MO
Empire City Garrison - WHUD Kids Fair - White Plains, NY
German Garrison - FEDCON XVII - Godesberger Allee, Bonn
Florida Garrison - Great Strides fund raising walk - Tallahassee, FL
UK Garrison- Salute 2008 - ExCeL, London
Canadian Garrison - SciFi on the Rock - Holiday Inn in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
Midwest Garrison - Prairie Air Show - Peoria Airport

Sunday Apr 20
mountain Garrison - Starfest - Denver, CO
Dutch Garrison - FedCon - Bonn
Midwest Garrison - PenguinCon - Troy MI
Empire City Garrison - New York Comic Con - Javits Center, NYC, NY
Pacific Outpost - Kawaii Kon - Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii/Hawaii Convention Center
Canadian Garrison - SciFi on the Rock - Holiday Inn in St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada
Midwest Garrison - Prairie Air Show - Peoria Airport
Southern California Garrison - EarthFair 2008 - Balboa Park, Southern San Diego
Great Lakes Garrison - Relay for Life Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser - South Lyon, MI
Badlands Garrison - Edmonton Collectible Toy and Comic Show - Edmonton, Alberta

Friday Apr 25
Alpine Garrison - SOUTHWEST SYMPHONY / Science Centre fund raiser - TENATIVE
Florida Garrison - Family Fun Day II - Miami, FL
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London

Saturday Apr 26
Florida Garrison - Florida Garrison - 2008 Relay for Life Gainesville - 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL
UK Garrison - Forbidden Planet - Forbidden Planet, London
70th Explorers - Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis
Badlands Garrison - The Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo
Midwest Garrison - Cape ComicCon - Cape Girardeau MO
Dune Sea Garrison - 5K for JA / KidsRockStars - Tempe Town Lake Arts Park
Southern California Garrison - "Meet and Greet" BBQ - Long Beach, CA
Florida Garrison - Our Kids World Family Fun Fest - Florida
German Garrison - Tattoo Convention 2008 - Frankfurt
Dune Sea Garrison - Tucson! March of Dimes: 3k March for Babies! - Tuscon AZ
Florida Garrison - March of Dimes March for Babies 2008 - Tampa Bay, FL
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
New England Garrison - Relay For Life - TENATIVE - Norwich University, Northfield, VT 05663
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping archade, Whitby

Sunday Apr 27
70th Explorers - Cape Con - SEMO University Student Rec Center, Cape Girardeau, MO
French Garrison - Generations Star Wars - Cusset, France
Belgian Garrison - Hypercon - Aalst, Belgium
Dune Sea Garrison - Relay for Life of Surprise, AZ - Surprise, AZ
Nordic Garrison - Model-Expo - Helsinki, Finland
New England Garrison - Relay For Life - TENATIVE - Norwich University, Northfield, VT 05663
UK Garrison - WGW Return of the Goths (Episode V) - Shambles shopping archade, Whitby
Garrison Tyranus - March for Babies - VA Beach
Mountain Garrison - Breast Cancer Walk
70th Explorers - Kid's Trolley Run 2008 - Mill Creek Park, JC Nichols Parkway, Kansas City, MO
Dewback Ridge Squad - Breast Cancer Walk - Albuquerque, NM
Mexican Garrison - Día del Niño en Casa Alianza - Casa Alianza
Capitol City Squad - MS Walk

Wednesday Apr 30
Mexican Garrison - Tabasco - Galerias Tabasco 2000 día del niño

Podcast #12

501stCast: Episode 12: April 3, 2008: Who’s the More Foolish?

In this episode of the 501stCast we look back at April Fool’s Day in the Empire, even more Fanboys drama (is it possible?), another Trooper of the Month interrogation, 501st events (past and future), and an exclusive 501stCast interview with Star Wars author and Honorary Member Michael Stackpole!
Show Notes: Episode XII (April 3, 2008)

Hosts: Dean Plantamura (TK-899), Rich (IC-9577) and Varza Cupps (DZ-8772)

Post-Production: Rich Sigfrit (IC-9577)

Content Development: Nicky Blum (DZ-8397)

Contributors: Andrew (TK-3220), TD-0013, Burr Martin (TD-9993)

• George Lucas and the 4108 Project (Interview)
• 501st units celebrate April Fool’s Day
• Stump the Trooper #3
• Trooper of the Month Interview: Darren Blum (TK-8399)
• Legion member travels to Olympics Summer Games
• Alabama Garrison recognized by Make-A-Wish
• Well wishes for 501st member in coma
• WIRED Magazine article (submit your fan photo)
• FanBoys drama -er, dicussion
• Public Service Announcement from TD-9993
• Exclusive interview with Honorary Member Michael Stackpole
• Costa Rica Outpost: Club de Libros fundraiser
• Terror Australis Garrison: Relay for Life
• Jundland Wastes Squad: St. Patrick’s Day parade
• Garrison Carida: Philadelphia 76ers Sci-Fi Night
• Terror Australis Garrison: Good Friday Appeal
• German Garrison: JediCon 2008
• Southern California Garrison: Wizard World Los Angeles
• Midwest Garrison: Star Wars birthday party
• A Different Point of View - Episode 17
• Empire City Garrison: New York Comic Con (April 18th-20th)
• French Garrison: Generations Star Wars (April 26th-27th)
• Quick Calendar:

• Contest and Giveaway: Win CIII Droid Hunt badge signed by Femi Taylor!

• Honorary Member Birthday Wishes
  • Tom Hodges (April 5th)
  • Cynthia Cummens (April 6th)
  • John Ratzenberger (April 6th)
  • Billy Dee Williams (April 6th)
  • Don Bies (April 7th)
• Happy Anniversaries to:
  • Costa Rica Outpost (March 23rd)
  • MidSouth Garrison (April 1st)
  • Alabama Garrison (April 3rd)

Download

I forgot to mention - I'm now working on this, reading off the calendar events. My voice isn't that slow or deep though...

501st Caught on Camera

Here's a selection of phots from the past week on Flickr:

Singapore Garrison In the News

The Singapore Garrison just made the front page of the Life section in the Strait Times, one of the newspapers out of Singapore. Looks like they had a big feature done on them, which is really cool - wonderful picture!
I'm trying to track down the text of the article, but I can't seem to get it up yet.

Costumes and Fandom

My parents have been longtime subscribers to The New Yorker magazine. I never really read a whole lot of the issues, but I did come across an interesting article by author Michael Chabon, the author of one of my favorite books of all time, the Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, which follows the history of comics pretty closely, and has brought out a couple of comics based off of its title character, the Escapist.
The article, called Secret Skin, is part biographical essay and part examination at the characters in the superhero genre, mainly in what their costumes mean and represent. It's a brilliant article, covering a number of things that I'd never really given any thought to.
The first real theme of the article is how people immerse themselves into their fantasy characters. He starts with an antidotal story that a teach told him in class, about how a boy tied a red towel around his neck as a cape and jumped from a building, hoping to fly, with the explanation being that the boy could not distinguish between reality and the reality that he saw in comic books. He then goes on to reminisce about times when he dressed up as a superhero, as Batman or Superman, to some of his own superheroes that were created out of pure convenience, and he then goes on to speak on transformation.
This, I feel is one of the defining elements of Science Fiction and Fantasy fandom, at least a part of it. I don't do a whole lot with costuming - only armor from the Star Wars movies, but I think that this applies somewhat. Chabon describes what he sees in conventions (which he frequents often - an audio interview with him via the New Yorker's site speaks on this) as a disappointment. He describes, in the article that oftentimes, despite extensive attention to detail and elaborate care, costumes fall short of what they resemble:
"Without exception, even the most splendid of these getups is at best a disappointment . . . acts to spoil what is instantly revealed to have been, all along, an illusion." (Chabon, The New Yorker, March 10, 2008, 66)
I don't believe that he intends these remarks as a criticism of fans that spend the time and effort, or of their accuracy, but rather, that they miss the point. Merely putting on a costume doesn't automatically turn one into a superhero, as the boy who jumped off the roof found. The costumes aren't real, they aren't a character, and their creators are creating a replica of an illusion.
From here on, he discusses some of the elements that make up a superhero's costume, and chiefly examines them as an extension of the character. This is one of the interesting points where form seems to follow function, at least to some extent. He looks at the components, the mask, gloves, boots, suits, capes, and symbols, and most importantly, how all of these components relate to the person's identity. Symbols relate to very personal elements to the characters, to how this tells a story.
In the audio interview, he describes the costume as an idea that wraps up a person in a number of sub stories and meanings, and how that translates the person underneath into the embodiment of an idea.
"Now the time has come to propose, or confront, a fundamental truth: like the being who wears it, the superhero costume is, by definition, an impossible object. It cannot exist." (Chabon, 66)
Not to say that it can't be replicated down to exacting details. I think that with a replication, you only get the appearance, nothing more. However, I think that it's how people perceive these characters that have come to life, rather than what the costume itself brings to the table - people around you make it more than just a costume. The costumer and viewer need to come together in order to make the illusion work. One instills wonder, and there has to be wonder, excitement, coming from the viewer.
I've sort of found this when I don my TK armor. A friend of mine once told me that I hold myself much differently once it's on, almost like I'm a different person. I've sort of felt that as well. In a way, I think all costumers have a similar feeling - we don't become the character at all, we represent their ideas, that feeling that we'd get as children reading a comic book under the covers or watching Star Wars for the first time. It's a way of honoring the character or figure, not becoming them. The time and energy spent on their creation is almost a work of love, an homage to something that really inspires us.
Michael Chabon isn't really criticizing fans for their efforts, I think. I think that a lot of other people do, because they don't really get this depth and this love. I don't really agree that costumes are a disappointment really - although there are some really strange ones out there - it's quite something, especially for the younger kids, to see your favorite character walking around, right there, in the flesh, and he shakes your hand. I do think that he's right when he says that when you see a character as an adult, you think "cool costume" and look at it in purely practical terms, whereas a child might see that and encapsulate that with everything that they've read and seen, not making the distinction that all you really have is a representation. Maybe even some adults. And that's what makes it all worth doing.
I highly, highly recommend checking out this article if you've been to a Con, do costuming, a SF/F genre fan or even someone outside of all that. Read it, and let me know what you think, I'd be interested in hearing other reactions beyond my own. I have a feeling that this'll prompt a couple more things from me, which I'll be interested to see what direction it takes me in.

The full article can be read here: http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2008/03/10/080310fa_fact_chabon