CHIEFTAIN PHOTO/MIKE SWEENEY

Members of the 501st Legion of the Premier Star Wars Costuming Fan Club, such as these storm troopers, have made numerous appearances at the 2003 Colorado State Fair. The nonprofit organization makes appearances in parades and other events throughout the area.

Tuesday August 19th, 2003

Spreading good word

The Mountain Garrison of the Imperial 501st Legion has invaded the Fairgrounds, but there's no cause for alarm.

"Star Wars" characters the Imperial Stormtroopers, Boba Fett and even Darth Vader strolled the grounds during the Fair's opening weekend and will make their return Saturday. The members of the costumer club have one goal: spreading happiness to everyone, particularly kids.

The Legion will appear at 2, 4 and 6 p.m. Saturday beginning at the Central Fountain Plaza in front of the Palace of Agriculture.

Sunday August 24th, 2003

The Force is with the Fair

THE PUEBLO CHIEFTAIN

Star Wars characters have been spotted throughout the Fairgrounds for the past week. No one knows for sure, but some observers have speculated they came in with the Kids Parade on Aug. 16.

The re-enactors reportedly are members of the Mountain Garrison of the 501st Legion of the Premier Star Wars costuming Fan Club. According to publicist Joe Musso of Pueblo, the nonprofit organization makes appearances in parades and other events throughout the area. Mostly, Musso said, they bring the magic of the Star Wars movies to life for young fans.

"Most of the trooper suits you see, mine including, costs around a thousand dollars," Musso said. "The Boba Fett and Darth Vader costumes run into the $2,000 - $3,000 range for all the stuff included with them."

The Star troopers participated in the Kids Parade and the State Fair Parade on Saturday. The members of the Mountain Garrison come from Wyoming, New Mexico and Colorado.