The forecast for Saturday was cold and a 100% chance of rain, which resulted in a much smaller trooper turnout! Brian Dudas (TB-26257) and myself were feeling pretty unenthusiastic about suiting up and being outside in such miserable weather, but we were determined to make something work. Fortunately for us, the Build A Bear store inside the mall is a Toys for Tots sponsor and was more than happy to have us inside their store with a Toys for Tots donation box. The manager and staff were so welcoming and thrilled to have us there. They opened up their back room for us so we had a place to change and a secure place to store our gear. We spent several hours that day completely surrounded by people who were thrilled to see a TIE Pilot and a Scout Trooper, we barely had a chance to breathe! What we thought was going to be a cold and rained out day ended up being an absolute blast, and most importantly, we were able to bring in a bunch of donations for Toys for Tots.
A special thanks to Chris Gould (TB-11110) and Brian Dudas (TB-26257) who drove several hours to attend this event; it was great having you guys there.
Troopers present on Friday:
Anthony Conte: TI-28803
Brian Kihlmire: SL-5540
Chris Gould: TB-11110
Darron Postell: TK-8236
Sharon Postell: ID-8239
Steven Mowery: DZ-6975
Sean Coughlin: TI-9014
Troopers present on Saturday:
Anthony Conte: TI-28803
Brian Dudas: TB-26257
