Around the MWG

    Members of the Michigan Squad joined forces with the Princess and R2-D2 to participate in the 21st annual Festival of Trees. Held for the first time at the Rock Financial Showplace in Novi, MI, this event is one of the largest benefits for the Children's Hospital of Michigan. The Michigan squad began planning for this event over 2 months ago and left no detail unattended. Members donated not only their time but the tree and decorations for the tree as well.

Members of the Squad in conjunction with partners and friends in R2-Detroit, the local FanForce group, trooped at RFS throughout the run of the Festival. The tree sold for $1,550, all proceeds of which benefiting Children's Hospital.

Upon gazing at the finished tree, one can not help but notice the several dozen Clone Troopers protecting the tree amongst the lights and ribbons. Or scattered throughout the boughs of the tree, the familar faces of Yoda, Chewbacca, and General Grievous. From the Star Wars Vader tree skirt to the Vader topping the tree, there was no missing the time and dedication that went into making this event special. Special thanks to our brothers and sisters in Michigan for giving so much of yourselves at this busy time of the year!!

Photos by Rome Ohnui/TK-1800, Susie Leopold/IS-7305, and Chris Brown/TK-3829

posted by Rome

'Tis the season of giving and no one knows that more than members of the MWG! On Sunday Dec. 11th, MWG members along with R2D2, Leia, and a few Jedi knights, donated toys and time to a very worthy cause. Toy Con has several shows a year and is a must for the die-hard action figure collectors. In addition, the December ToyCon Toy Show works closely with Children's Treasure Chest for Pediatric Oncology. The Treasure Chest allows cancer patients birth to age 18 at 27 treatment centers to choose an age appropriate toy as a reward for having the courage to undergo painful yet necessary procedures. Because of such generousity, the Treasure Chest Foundation is able to comfort over 3,500 children and teens each month.

Members of the MWG were asked to do a 'meet and greet' in the children's room and from the looks of those in attendance, a great time was had by all. For those who made it, the children's room provided games and a photo op with one's favorite SW character. Donations from the photos were over $100! Many toys along with gift certificates for the older children were donated which will be distributed by the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation. A big "THANK YOU" goes out to all the members who took time out of their busy holiday schedule to help with such a great cause.



Photo by Cheryl Whitaker

posted by Rome