8/6–Casey Cares & Baltimore Orioles 5K, Baltimore

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8/6–FRIENDS Downright Spectacular Car Show, Frederick

Tom and I arrived and had to get suited up in the parking lot. It was definitely a warm day and with the threat of rain, not many people showed up as either spectators or participants. The folks were confused but happy to see us. We made many laps around the cars to keep the air moving and take some pictures. Eventually we went in the mall to walk around and cool off. We made a few more circuits around the lot with the cars then called a day around 12:45pm

Troopers:
Emily – Rex
Tom – Havoc (RL)

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8/6–Star Wars Spectacular, Hampstead

This was a nice, short library event. As always, the Hampstead staff was very helpful and glad that we were there. They had the usual arts and crafts, i.e. Yoda ears, coloring, paper bag puppets, etc. One new thing they had was a little, vertical wind tunnel made out of clear plastic and a fan. The kids cut out and colored T.I.E. fighters and glued them to little paper cups. Then they put them in the tube to see how high the could get. Most importantly, it was Jesse’s first troop! Congratulations!!!

Troopers:
Rob Cross – Vader
Matt – TK
Jesse – TK
Jason – R2
Bry – ID
John – TK

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8/12–Star Wars Night at the Hagerstown Suns

We got dressed and ready to go a little after 6pm thanks to some weird weather and traffic. Dave from Rebel Legion had a table that Kami kept an eye on. Dave, Jake, and Emily stood near the entrance to take pictures with anybody that wanted one. Before the beginning of the game, each of us escorted one of the kids to the mound to throw out the first pitch then returned to our spot at the entrance. After a food and water break, we made a few circuits around the stands and even got on side to do that wave. We called it a night around 8:30 or so. The organizer really appreciated having us out, and we hope we’re able to do it again next season.

Troopers:
Emily – Rex
Jake – TK
Dave (RL) – Han Solo

Squire:
Kami

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8/13–Star Wars Night with the Washington Nationals, DC

Wow! What troop! The Nats treated us well again this year. They kept us fed and hydrated. They also provide t-shirts for everyone that came (assuming you could fit in the sizes they provided). They also gave us a gift bag with a bunch of swag it. We plan to raffle it off and donate the proceeds to Ellicott City. We manned the table, trooped the gates, roamed, and went on the field for the start of the game. Special thanks to Jason for letting us use his backdrop!

The biggest part of this event was the heat. It hit 100 degrees with a heat index of 115. Most of our folks were suited up for 4.5-5.0 hours in these temperatures! We can’t say thank you enough to all of our troopers and squires! No one could ask more from our folks! Most importantly, everyone stayed healthy and safe.  A big thanks to our brothers and sisters from Garrison Tyranus for coming out to make this a huge event.

Troopers:
Randy – BH
Emily – Rex
Will – ID
Charlie – TI
Stephen – TK
Phil – ID/DZ
Alex – TB (GT)
Christopher – ID/TK (GT)
Matthew – TK
Ron – Boss (GT)
Adam – TB (GT)
Tony – TK/TI? (GT)
Frank – TK (GT)
Lori – TS (GT)
Anne – Daala/Isard (GT)
Amber – TI (GT)
Brian – Ep 7 TK (GT)
Ben -Havoc (GT)
Justin – ID (GT)
Kevin – TK (GT)
Katherine – DZ (GC)
Brad – TD (GT)
Heather – ID (GT)
BJ – TK (GT)
Drew (GT) – TK

Squries:
Anna (GT) – Squire
Chris (GT) – Squire
Bria (GT) – Squire
Cathy – Squire
Jason (GT) – Squire
Steven (GT) – Squire
Scott (GT) – Squire

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8/13–WCFL Comic Con, Hagerstown

 

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8/13–Star Wars Night w/ Charm City Roller Girls, Laurel

8/27/2016 USO Metro Movies on the Lawn, JB Andrews

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8/27–Skyler’s 7th Birthday, Baltimore

This was a fun little troop. It was sort of last minute for me, but I was able to squeeze it in with everything I had to do yesterday. I arrived about 20 minute before the party started and talked with Skyler’s Dad, who was excited that we were able to make it. He told me that he wasn’t sure that we were going to make it, so he had his brother dress up as Vader. He went on to say that his brothers Vader costume was put together last minute and that it would look silly compared to my armor. I advised him that its for the kids and really doesnt matter to me as long as they’re happy. So we finished suiting up in the garage and made our way into the house. Skyler’s face lit up with the biggest smile, and I could tell that he was super excited.  I, along with Uncle Vader, posed for a bunch of pictures with the guests.  My wife then said to the grandmother, “If anyone has any music, I bet our Sandtrooper will dance.”. So I busted out the cabbage patch and the kids and adults were all dying laughing. I don’t know what was so funny as my moves are pretty spot-on. After the mini-dance party, I wrote Skyler a MEPD Imperial Citation for his “Unauthorized Rebel Gathering”, answered a bunch of questions about daily life on Tatooine as a Sandtrooper, and advised him that we would be back to start his Imperial training. After a round of high-fives from the adults and kids, I said goodbye and packed it in. Overall, this was a pretty small party, but it was nice. I stayed for about an hour. The kids were super behaved and the house was air conditioned. Thank the Maker for inside parties!!

Troopers:

Jesse – TK

 

 

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8/28–Ethan’s 6th Birthday, Manchester

TK 86347 and ID 13621 arrived early and spent some time with the family of the birthday boy. Everyone we very excited to have us. R2D2 arrived and entertained the guests until we were ready to join him. R2, as usual, was the life of the party. Ethan, the birthday boy, was excited and overwhelmed, especially after R2 sung “Happy Birthday” and presented him with a challenge coin. We posed for pictures and interacted with the guests. One four-year-old girl was a little unsure about the TK, but he won her over after discovering that they both share the favorite color, blue. After that she barely left his side and coaxed some other unsure younlings into posing for pictures with us. R2 took a spill on a treacherous route but appears to have been spared any significant damage. Eventually, the call of the bounce house and pinata beckoned the younlings away, so we said our goodbyes. Though it was a hot day, it was a very satisfying troop and the younlings and adults alike had a great time.

Troopers:
William – TK
Melissa – ID
Jason – R2

6/25–Bowie Baysox Star Wars Night

This annual fan and trooper favorite was another rousing success. We all arrived early and were dressed in time to be on the concourse before the doors opened. This year the Baysox gave us a wonderfully large changing area. It was definitely a warm night, but all of the troopers were awesome and you could tell the crowd really enjoyed having us there.  Our big group was made even bigger and better by our friends from the Rebel Legion, Mandalorian Mercs, and Galactic Academy.

Troopers:
Matt Morley (TK)
Charlie Mann (TI)
Josh O (TR)
Kellie (ID)
Phil (ID)
Devin (TB)
Sam (SL)
Kevin (TK)
Emily (CC)
Thomas (TK)
Bob (TI)
Kelly (IC)
William (TK)
Melissa (ID)
Spence (BH)
Andrew (TC)
Mike (TK)
Olivia (GA-DZ)
Keira (GA-TB)
Jim (SL)
Yvonne (BH)
Trevor (GA-DZ)
Karyn (GA-DZ)
Kaylee (GA-DZ)

Squires:
Andrea
Jesse
Christopher
David
Jenny
Nancy

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7/1-7/3–Escape Velocity, DC
Escape Velocity turned out to a fun little con. We were a big hit. The drone races were pretty cool, too. It was a nice mix of science and science fiction. Since it was a new con, we had a few minor logistical issues, but the staff was great. They helped us with anything we needed. They continually checked in with us to see how we were doing.  We only used about a quarter of the huge 40×40 space that they provided us. Next time, they are hoping to setup an in-booth changing area for us. We only had one big issue. On Friday, we met about 300 kids from the Boys and Girl Clubs of America. Most of the kids were great but a few were not. A part of Dan’s FO trooper was ripped off and thrown in the trash. Luckily, the staff helped find it. This was a reminder of the importance of having squires, especially around small children. We also want to say thanks to Garrison Tyranus for helping out! Lori’s backdrop and props were a great help!

Friday:
Dan Rodriguez
Bria LaVorgna (GT)
Lori Frye (GT)
Devin Minnich
Matthew Morley
Laila Morley – Squire
Ian Morley – Squire
Aidan Morley

Saturday:
Dan Rodriguez
Anna Mitchell (GT)
Bria LaVorgna (GT)
Lori Frye (GT)
Phil Gastilo
Scott Stevens – Squire
Kami Kohitsuji
Jacob Stottlemyer
Glynn Steckler – Squire
Chris Porta (GT)
Chris Brown (GT)
Emily Schram
William Ralph
Melissa Ralph
Rebecca Cook – Squire
Henry Bradford – Squire
Matthew Morley
Laila Morley – Squire
Ian Morley – Squire
Aidan Morley
Ben Jerauld (GT)
Julia Evans – Squire (GT)
BJ Brown (GT)
Sean Illg – Squire
Heather Shue (GT)
Brad Shue (GT)
Madison Cope (GT)
Chris Cope (GT)
Mrs. Cope – Squire (GT)
Brian Jones – Squire

Sunday:
Dan Rodriguez
Bria LaVorgna (GT)
Lori Frye (GT)
Scott Stevens – Squire
Kami Kohitsuji
Jacob Stottlemyer
Chris Brown (GT)
Damon Degner
William Ralph
Melissa Ralph
Rebecca Cook – Squire
Henry Bradford – Squire
Julia Evans – Squire (GT)
Sean Illg – Squire

A Note From the Event Sponsor:

On behalf of the Museum of Science Fiction, I want to thank you and your group for participating in the Escape Velocity convention. It was a success in large part because we had the support of stellar folks like the 501st! Your group puts a smile on every face in the room, and I cannot adequately express the gratitude I feel.

On a personal note, I have to acknowledge the extra effort put in for the Boys and Girls Club groups. I know it did not go as smoothly as it could have, and we’ve learned many lessons on how to deal with large groups in the future. I also recognize the parking situation was less than ideal. These are items I hope to improve upon for next year.

I sincerely hope the members of your group enjoyed themselves overall and will want to return next year. If there is any support or assistance the Museum may be able to provide to the 501st throughout the year, please feel free to reach out to me and I will see what we can do.

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7/9–Southern Maryland Blue Crabs Star Wars Night

The Atlantic League team once again welcomed us to the Regency Furniture Stadium for a fun night in Waldorf, MD.  We were happy to be a part and join our friends the Mandalorian Mercs and the Saber Guild.

Troopers:

Josh Orr – TR
Sam Slater – SL
Andrew Simansky – TK

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7/22–The Cubs Awaken Movie Night

We arrived and were dressed by 6:30 and headed out to the viewing area around 6:45pm. They rented an inflatable movie screen, and we were to be a surprise for the kids to take pictures and interact with while the sun when down enough to start the movie. There were a lot of families attending and we were well received. We played soccer, ate s’mores, and participated in general event antics. Afterwards, we were treated to pizza, popcorn, candy, and beverages.
Troopers:
Emily – Rex

Jason – R2

Squire:
Juan
Casie (Mando)

Mandos:
Ski
Jess
Marc

 

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7/23–POPCOMICGANZA

Very nice little con. They had a room set aside for us to change in, but we decided it would be easier to change on the main area in the spacious bathroom. We were all set up and ready to go by 10. The Con ebbed and flowed, and all in all was a good time. We had a few inquiries about joining as well as new events so hopefully we will see some new faces logging in and some new events being posted.

Troopers:
Shep
Brian
Eric

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7/23–Wesminster Comic Fest

This turned out to be a typical library event. The con artists didn’t arrive, so we were the main attraction. We trooped both inside and outside. While outside we got invited into a little art studio where kid were painting. With the nice weather it turned out to be a great little troop.

Troopers:
Matt – TK
Jacob – TK
Aidan – IC

Jason – R2

Squires:
Brian & his wife
Scott

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7/30–ArtistSlam at Geppi’s Entertainment Museum

This was a pretty tame affair. We were one of only a handful of exhibitors, and the traffic was pretty slow throughout the day. Nevertheless, we were all set up and suited up within the 10 o’clock hour. Our space was in the main second floor hallway, near the Star Wars exhibit, and we took photos and interacted with museum guests as they came through. By about 1, the traffic had pretty well dried up, so we started to suit down and pack up. It was about 2 by the time we all cleared out. The staff was grateful to have us, providing us with water and an office in which to store our gear.

Troopers:

Bry – CB
Geoff – TK
Devin – TB
Chris – TR

Galactic Academy:

Ryan – DZ

Mandos:

Marc
Collin (visiting from Michigan)

Squires:
Kat

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7/31–Galactic Con
Most of the troops arrived between 0900 and 1000, the Con provided us with a conference room for changing and storing of bins as well as keeping us hydrated with water in the room (this was much needed). We hung around in the conference room for awhile talking Star Wars and Pokemon. After that, we suited up and made our way to our table area. This was a smallish Con taking up three rooms, and we were put right by the check-in area.  We had room for our backdrop and our PR stuff. Across from us was the G.I. Joe’s finest, who were a great bunch of guys and gals.  A few of us went to Mark Mckenna, an Honorary Member of the 501st, who loved having us around. We had a few good talks with people who showed interest in joining us as well as having us out for something. While talking with the Finest ( http://www.thefinestcc.com/) we mentioned that they might be a good addition to the Travis Manion 9/11 run, they raise money for Charity as well, they have worked with Wounded Warriors and the USO. But all in all, it was a nice small con.  We wandered around, took pictures with people, and answered the questions they had. The Con organizer came to us afterwards and said he loved having us here and that he would have us back when he does the Con next year, though it will probably be in a different location but the same city.

Troopers
Eric
Shep
Mike – TFA TK (w/ 2 GA Cadets, TB & TI)
Damon – TD
William – TK
Melissa – ID
Mike H – TK (GC)
Saffy – Tusken (GC / GA)
Zoe – Sabine (GC / GA)
Matt – TK
Stephen – TK
Warren – DZ
Delaney – BH (GA)
Brian – TK
Andrew – TK
Barron – TB
Jason – R2

Squires:
Kat
Emily

6/18–Waldorf West Library Con

This was a small and short (4.5 hours) troop event. It was a tiny comic con at the Charles County MD Library. There were a lot of children and teenagers with their parents that came that day for the activities. Activities included arts & crafts, video games, Starship Horizons simulator, Sci-Fi trivia contest, costume contest, and an appearance by Dan Nokes of 21st Century Sandshark Studios. We stayed mainly in the front main lobby by the meeting rooms and took pictures with kids and adults. A couple of times we did roam upstairs where the video gamers were. There weren’t any major issues that I was aware of, the Library took care of us with a private/secured changing room and there was ample parking outside. We did have to put bright zip ties on our blasters though. I wouldn’t mind doing this troop again next year. Hopefully it will grow and attract more patronage.

Troopers:
Brian – TK
Phil – ID Staff

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6/18–National Maker Faire, DC

Melissa and William Ralph arrived an hour early to this large event that is said to be the nation’s largest show and tell, and it did not disappoint.  After suiting up and proceeding down stairs, they exited the building into a group of citizens who began to ask to pose for photos. This went on for over two hours, where the two only moved about 100 feet from where they came in. The head of the event presented Melissa and William with editor choice ribbons and William had a fan literally jump into his arms, luckily causing only minor damage to his armor. Another two hours flew by where Melissa and William met many other eager fans, R2D2, an experimental droid call BB8, and cooled off with some of the best Popsicles they have ever had. The event was amazing and these two troopers would recommend it highly to anyone interested in attending next year.

Troopers:
William – TK
Melissa – ID

This was a nice little Library Con.  We were in a space with some other vendors and costuming groups. The person in charge was very active in making sure that everyone was taken care of.  We walked around a little, hung around the table and answered questions from those that came over, and posed for pictures.  All in all a good Troop.  Afterwards we went to Mission BBQ to have some dinner and just hang out.

6/22–Weird Al Concert, Baltimore

Wow, what a night! Everyone arrived between 4:30 and 5:30, and shortly after we were escorted onto the stage to see where we would stand and go through the routine.  Then, we headed back up to our dressing room to be shown the steps.  Luckily we had some big Weird Al fans among us, because the production team’s CD player didn’t work so we had to use Eric’s phone to play the song.  We practiced the routine a few times and then took a break.

The ceremony began with the Brownies of Troop 173 marching into the room to present the Amercan Flag and Girl Scout Troop flag. They led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and Girl Scout Promise and Law. The Troop Co-Leader then introduced Warren (DZ/ID 74075) as the Troop Leader and Master of Ceremonies.  He then called upon the surprise special guests to help out. R2 rolled in with his signature scream and the Imperial March played as the TK, officer, and TIE pilot entered the room. Then, in his most commanding voice, Warren ordered each girl front and center to receive their badges.  Then they were to report to the flight deck to receive their Brownie Wings from the TIE Squadron Commander.  Next, they were ordered to the bridge where they received their full promotion to Girl Scout Juniors from the commanding officer.  After that it was a party with refreshments and photo ops.  This was a particularily special troop for Warren, as his daughter (who is a Galactic Academy member) was receiving her promotion.

6/24–Outdoor Movies at City Park, Hagerstown

So we had 3 garrisons represented at this troop and it was a fun troop to begin with. There was a costume parade through the park and then it was photo time.  After that was finished, we walked around and mingled some, fed some ducks, and then got out of kit once the movie started.  The troops ended up hitting up a local Buffalo Wild Wings and made sure to put the bill on Vader’s tab.  The local news did a quick bit on the event.

Troopers:
Jacob – TK
Allana – TK (GC)
Damon – TD (GT)

Squires:
Jesse (GC)
Scott
Brian J

6/25–Perry Hall/White Marsh Town Fair, Nottingham

Despite a sunny, high sky, this was a great troop. The organizers were really grateful to have us there and had a changing tent set up for us right behind the info booth. They asked us to start our patrol at 1 pm, just as other costumed characters were leaving. The fair was contained on the street and parking lot in front of the school, where we did a couple loops during the afternoon. We couldn’t get more than a few steps without someone waving us down to talk and take pictures. The crowd was steady and large, but there was still plenty of room to move around. There was a children’s area with a moon bounce and pony rides that we visited, but most of the action was out by the vendor booths. We took a water break after about an hour, then put in another hour or so. The girls rocked it out and stayed with us step for step. One of the fair organizers said afterwards that they plan to make a charitable donation in our name as a thank you.