While the Trekkies were living long and prospering at Mega Con 2013, the force was also strong with the Star Wars fans. The 501st Legion came in full force to the biggest convention the Florida Garrison attends all year.
Our space was a little bigger this year thanks to our special guest, Roxy the Rancor! Roxy's last appearance was Star Wars Celebration VI, last August. Before her arrival, Roxy was given a mission...to raise money for the Brian Wolfe Family. Brian Wolfe and his twin brother are well known special effects artists. Brian was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Roxy looked her mission in the eye and growled loudly. By the end of the weekend, she helped raise over $3,300!
Along with Roxy, we also hosted Imperial Sniper Training (aka, shoot a stormtrooper with a Nerf gun). We raised $1,000 for Noahs Light Foundation, a charity that is very close to our Garrison's hearts.
In addition to our two main events, we also had the 501st Legion logo picture opp, where convention goers could put themselves in our logo. We also had the popular trash compactor set. Think of it as a ball pit for adults, but instead of colored balls, we had foam.
Our tables were full of awesome helmets and props loaned to the booth by Florida Garrison members. Costumes were stationed at the end of the tables for guests to get the full effect of what we do.
Troopers hung out behind and inside the booth all three days, taking pictures with the convention goers. Some of the amazing costumes showcased include Darth Maul, Darth Vader, bounty hunters, Wolff Pack and their padawan, tie pilots, magma trooper, snow troopers (yes, we have those in Florida), sand people (aka Tuskens), Jawas and scout troopers just to name a few.
Since Mega Con, I've seen some newbies pop up on our boards, eager to join the ranks of the fighting 501st Legion. If you're interested in joining up, check out my step by step guide. You can also reach out to me on Twitter or through email. I'll be happy to help you get started on your path to the dark side.
In addition to our booth, the 501st Legion also runs the costume contest every year. This year, we would like to thank ThinkGeek for their donation to the kids costume contest. The winner was super excited to receive his Death Star Attack race track and even tried to open it on stage!
A special thanks to all the volunteers who took time out from walking the con to work the booth! Your sacrifice is duly noted by the Emperor.
