Topic: I am now a Stormtrooper
If you're friends with me on Facebook, you'll see all the crazy photos taken of me in a Stormtrooper costume.
These things weren't easy to make, but yes - you have to make them. They are movie accurate, and to become part of the international StarWars costuming club http://501st.com, you have to undergo a critical approval process. Every state in the US has a subdivision of the 501st. The one in Michigan is called the Great Lakes Garrison.
The money invested to build Stormtrooper armor took a huge bite out of my normally lucrative guitar budget 
but this is something different. After coming to the realization I might be the nerdiest person I know, it's going all out in terms of quality. This is not a crappy Halloween costume. It's good enough to be in the actual movie.
The local 501 does all sorts of things. It's a non-profit, and does things for a good cause. They do Make a Wish foundation stuff, fundraisers, Library events, etc. They take home no money. All goes to charity no matter what the event. We participated in the Detroit "Maker Faire" since we make all our own stuff. As icing on the cake, we get invited to do Star Wars night at the Detroit Pistons game, where stormtroopers get to go on the court and guard the cheerleaders during timeouts, etc. Detroit Tigers have a StarWars night too, where troopers get to dance on the dugout during the 7th inning stretch. When Weird AL Yankovic comes to town, he invites the local 501st to share the stage with his American Pie Parody that talks about Anakin Skywalker.
It's pretty much like being an anonymous celebrity. People freak out when they see you and must have a photo taken. Sometimes it's a little overwhelming, but it's all for a good cause. Plus, it cure's the ills of your inner 6 year old. haha
I chose from a list of available stormtrooper serial numbers, and settled for 6459. To me, it's like a '64 strat and a '59 Les Paul 
Dutchtrooper
TK 6459
PS: NO, I'm not "a little short for a stormtrooper" as I'm over 6 ft. If anything, I'm a little tall.
PSS: I never did find those droids I was looking for!
Ask me about my handwound Great Lakes Guitar Pickups
Since 2010, Bonamassa fans have taken advantage of my JB friend discount = my cost + shipping.
