Members

About Me: My interests in Star Wars range from collecting, video games, costuming, and prop making. I’ve made lifelong friendships with members of the group.  I enjoy appearing in costume and seeing the smiles from the public, both young and old.

Favorite Events Attended: I attended C3 with my friends and was privileged to join Garrick Hagon (Biggs) for breakfast (along with at least a dozen other actors). Some of my favorite experiences with the group include the BPO concerts in 11/05 and the afternoon I was able to spend with Peter Mayhew in June 2003.

Memories: My parents took me to see the movie when I was 2 1/2 and I haven’t looked back. I remember viewing Episode IV at The Holiday Theaters and Episode V at the Buffalo Drive Inn (my parents warned me there would be a big surprise).

About me: Star Wars has always been a part of my life. From seeing the original movies in the theaters as a child to watching Star Wars Rebels with my wife and children. I love to give back to the community and The North Ridge is a fantastic way to raise money for local charities, bring smiles to children and parents and make fantastic friends along the way.

Favorite Events: Buffalo Bison’s Star Wars Night. It is such a blast, the best part for me is the smiles and sheer joy that you can see on these children’s faces is worth all the work that it takes.

About Us: We have been STAR WARS fans since seeing Episode 4 first run in 1977, and were both science fiction fans of literature, films and TV before that. We were fortunate to find out almost by accident that a group was forming in Buffalo around the time of the AOTC IMAX Experience. In our travels, we have attended many science fiction/fantasy/media conventions, including all 3 SW Celebrations and the 10th Anniversary SW Creation Extravaganza held in LA in 1988. It’s been our pleasure and honor to introduce the great group of fans in Buffalo to the rest of fandom.

Favorite Event Attended: Participating in the costumed promotion at the Buffalo Philharmonic.

Memories:  Hosting Peter Mayhew at a Buffalo convention, having breakfast with many of our 1st time convention attendees at Celebration 3 with Garrick Hagon (Biggs Darklighter).

About Me: I have been a Star Wars fan for as long as I can remember. There is something about the Universe that just captures me. I have been a gamer, a reader, a fan writer, and everything in between. I am originally a member of the Rochester group, but joined The North Ridge when I moved to Buffalo for college. I remained in the area and continued on with the North Ridge. I have formed another family in the group, and am more than happy to serve it after all these years.

Favorite Events Attended: Bisons Star Wars Night, 2003 Softball Tournament

About Me:

About Me: I am a pharmacist, and am married with one daughter. I loved Star Wars since seeing it for the first time with my cousin at the movie theaters in 1977. It made me interested in martial arts, movies and science fiction. Collecting became a big part of my life and I always looked forward to the next comic book and many years later, the new novels which peeked my interest once again.

Favorite Event Attended: The ultimate experience was our appearance with the BPO and the lightsaber duel Marty and I got to do onstage during the “Battle of the Heroes.” A dream come true!

Memories: I started in the North Ridge during the appearance at the IMAX showing of AOTC. I didn’t know anyone in the group yet, but showed up in full Anakin garb (first time ever in public!), opened the door and said “Hi!”

About Me: I’m currently a sophomore college student in Rochester studying to be an Engineering Technologist, who has been into most things science fiction for as long as I can remember. I also enjoy computer/Xbox gaming, and have recent branched into comic books (X-Men and Star Wars mostly).

Favorite Events Attended: Getting to duel with Lisa onstage at the BPO concert; I was nervous but had a blast doing it! Followed closely is the Slanted Fedora convention, and meeting my first Star Wars actor – Peter Mayhew!

Memories: My first memory of all things Star Wars was when I was visiting family friends as a kid, and playing the their son’s SW action figures. Soon after that I saw the Special Editions in the theater (for some reason I never saw RotJ), and my fandom began to blossom from there.

About Me: I also enjoy books, movies and cartoons in general. I’m married and have one daughter, we all like any type of science fiction.

Events Attended: Celebration III; Niagara Falls Santa Parade 2003, 2004; Grape & Wine Parade 2003, 2004, 2005; Toronto Philharmonic Star Wars Concert; Original Trilogy DVD release; Cincinnati Pops Star Wars Spectacular; Episode 2 DVD release; Toronto CN/SFX 2003, 2005; Episode 3 Midnight Screening; Boston When Science Meets Imagination; LFL/Museum Opening Gala; Buffalo Philharmonic Star Wars Concert;
Episode 3 Midnight Screening; Episode 3 DVD release

Memories: I was in grade school when Star Wars came out. It was like nothing we had ever seen. I was already watching reruns of Star Trek & Lost in Space, so Star Wars was a natural choice.

About Me: I was 7 when I saw Star Wars in 1977 at the Holiday 6 in Cheektowaga. It was practically my religion growing up, and it is still a part of who I am.  Today, I own my own web development company, but am working toward being an inter-faith minister and writer, which will include dealing with the spirituality of the Star Wars mythos.

Memories: I had a great time teaching children to be padawan learners at a birthday party where I was costumed as a Jedi master. But I will also never forget the rehearsals and actual night on the field in the Star Wars performance after the Bison’s game.

About Me: I love Star Wars and prop building, and the North Ridge gives me the opportunity to combine those two loves. I was part of the X-wing Cockpit Build Team in 2015, and also constructed the replica Death Star Panels that the North Ridge sometimes uses.

Favorite Events Attended: The Annual Star Wars Night at Coca-Cola Field

About Me: I first got into Star Wars during the summer of 1996, after my younger brother and cousin showed me the Original Trilogy. I’ve had various stages of fandom, from collecting & customizing toys, delving into the old Expanded Universe, costuming and producing shows sharing the love of the Galaxy Far, Far Away. Joining the North Ridge has given me a great appreciation for all of the different ways fans can enjoy the same stories.

Favorite Events Attended: I’m particularly proud to see how Buffalo Bisons Star Wars Night has grown over the years. It’s a true testament to the hard work the members of the group put in every time.

About Me: I am born and raised here in Buffalo. I’m married with 3 children, and work as computer programmer/analyst. In my spare time, I play on the computer, immerse myself anything Star Wars (among other things), the Marvel and DC comic and cinematic universes, and spend time with my family. I am also an (American) Civil War re-enactor of 21 years and have recently been training and possess a Green Belt in American Kenpo.

Memories: Seeing Star Wars for the first time for my 9th birthday at the hallowed Holiday Showcase theater.

Memories: Buffalo Bisons Star Wars Night events, 2014 in particular, and hanging out with the group.

About Me: I’ve been a Star Wars fan all of my life — it was one of my first memories. Star Wars first showed on HBO in the early 80’s when I was just a young child and I can remember always being in front of the TV to watch it every time it came on. I had all of the figures and some of the vehicles, with the X-wing being my favorite toy of all. As I got older my love for Star Wars grew, when they re-released the figures in late 96 I can remember hunting down everyone of them with c3po being the hardest to get in this area.

Favorite Event Attended: ROTS DVD release at Media Play and watching the little kids come up and interact with Vader (BobaChris).

Memories: Last year I attended Celebration 3 in Indy and it took me back to the glory days of my youth…

About Me: I really AM the Mother of Twins!  I have always enjoyed Star Wars since I saw the Episode IV in 1977. I joined the North Ridge after my son joined as a teenager.

Favorite Event Attended: I enjoyed organizing our group’s appearance at the Wegmans where I work. My co-workers loved having their pictures taken with all the characters. Of course, who doesn’t love Star Wars Night at the Bisons!

Memories: My favorite North Ridge moment was watching my son onstage with the Buffalo Philharmonic performing a light saber duel to music. Second to that was being on the field in my very first Star Wars Night appearance. Amazing!!

About Me: I am a Respitory Therapist. I have and always will be a kid at heart. It only seemed fitting that I join a local Star Wars group to be able to relive my youth. I always have enjoyed the Star Wars universe starting with the movies, toys, Comics, Books, and then on to enjoy collecting as I got older.  Now I can go Back to the playing, as I have an excuse to not only wear the costumes but also make them.  Some of my other interests are Sports along with drawing and being creative, and getting out to beer and wine tastings.

Favorite Events Attended: I attended C2 and C3. But the most memorable ones to date are when I attended my first North Ridge Event (Music is Art Festival) and even though it was warm out, just seeing the reactions along with the Smiles on all the kids and even adults faces I stayed out and almost didn’t want to take the costume off. Last but not least being a part of Star Wars night at the Bisons game.

Memories: My earliest memories of it were when my parents took me to see Star Wars at the drive-in, looking at our screen were Star Wars was on and to the back of the car looking at the other screen were Battlestar Galactica was playing. But the most memorable is when being on a first date I asked what she wanted to do, and Ill never forget the response… “Lets stay in and watch a movie… How about the Star Wars Trilogy? “NICE!!!” I was ready to ask her to Marry me right there and then.

Favorite Event Attended: Eggertsville Library July 2012, Star Wars Night, Summit Autism Walk, Buffalo ComiCon, Buffalo Auto Show

Memories: Seeing EVERY SW film in the theaters, seeing the premiers of Episodes 1 and 3 on my birthday at midnight.

About Me: Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Bill has been a practicing psychologist here for the last 15 years and works for both NY state as well as the VA. Married with three children, in addition to volunteering his time with the North Ridge, he spends his free time producing and acting in independent films, hosting a TV show, and is currently working toward his 4th degree Black Belt in Isshin-ryu and 2nd degree Black Belt in Kenpo karate. Very happy with the recently given club nickname, “Sensei.”

Favorite Event Attended: Bisons Star Wars Night; Buffalo ComicCon; Clarence WinterFest

Memories: Arrived at the Buffalo Drive-in dressed as Darth Vader for “Revenge of the Sith” and was let in for free. Then, when I got out of my car, hearing one kid yell, “it’s Vader!” and then seeing a mob of at least 30 kids charging toward me with lightsabers at the ready!

About Me: I’ve been a Star Wars fan since I watched A New Hope in theaters in 1977. After a lifetime love of all things Star Wars, I finally joined the Northridge in 2009.
I have really enjoyed being part of such a great group of people who share their love of Star Wars and raise money for charity.

Favorite Event Attended: Bison’s Nights, Clarence Winterfest, theater re-releases, Star Wars Celebration VI

Memories: Playing with Star Wars toys as a child and now playing with (way cooler) Star Wars toys with my kids!

About Me: Licensed Massage Therapist and Yoga Instructor for the past 12 years.

Memories: Went to the Drive In and Clone Wars was one of the movies playing that night. That is where I saw Ventress for the first time and knew I had to be this character. She was very strong willed and I loved the look about her. She reminded me of a vampire, another one of my interests. Basically she was bad-ars !!!  When I attended my first North Ridge event as Asajj Ventress, it melted my heart when a little girl asked for my autograph. I will never forget the smile on her face. I realized then that it’s not just for my love and the group’s love for Star Wars, but it’s for the kids. The smiles and joy we bring to them touch all our hearts.

Favorite Event: Clarence Winter Fest, Bisons Star Wars Night

About Me: I’m a Niagara Falls native, currently working in the IT field. I have been a fan of science fiction, specifically Star Wars, since early childhood. I graduated college as a fine arts major and enjoy model building and prop construction. I began construction of a full scale functional R2-D2 in December 2007 as a member of the R2 Builders Group, and joined the North Ridge in June of 2010. I’ve made many friends who I consider my extended family. There’s no better group to hang out with, costuming and bringing smiles to the faces of those we see – young and old alike – all while raising money for charity.

Memories: I remember seeing Return of the Jedi in the theaters at the Summit Park Mall. I was only 6 at the time. I also remember seeing Coke Bot at around the same age (if anyone remembers, that was the Coca Cola sponsored robot that slightly resembled R2-D2).

Favorite Event: Hands down, the Buffalo Bison’s Star Wars Night. The Bison’s are a very classy organization and an absolute pleasure to work with.

About Me: I was introduced to star wars as a kid with the movies and action Figures.(Wishing I could go back in time and say “don’t play with them, just sit and look at them” lol) However it wasn’t until Timothy Zahn and his Thrawn Trilogy came around that I got truly hooked. I’ve played most of the games, read most of the books, watched all the cartoons, movies, TV shows, spin offs, and yes, even that special that shall not be named because it never existed because it was just a nightmare I had one night. So I joined this group to meet, and have some good times with a bunch of other Star Wars fans like myself. And oh what fun and good times I’ve had thus far. Looking for the many many more yet to come.

Favorite Event Attended: Bisons Star Wars Night 2012

About Me: I’m a professional Carpenter, with a love I have had since I was little and among the other passions I share with my fellow North Ridgers, the big one is Star Wars. Not only have I made many friends from this common interest, it also introduced me to my wife, Lisa.

Favorite Event Attended: Buffalo Bisons Star Wars Night.

Memories: My favorite memory would have to be Bison’s Star Wars Night 2010, when I walked out on the field for the first time to recreate the Episode One duel. I was so nervous as I was Darth Maul, and had some big shoes to fill. But when I heard that crowd explode when they saw me, all I could think was “this is the coolest thing in the world.”

Favorite Event Attended: Children Hospital Halloween party!

Memories: My favorite Star Wars memory was as a little girl watching the movie with my older brothers! I always loved Star Wars, but it was not until I meet my love Dan that I got into costuming in 05.

About Me:  Retired from gainful employment for several years and now doing what I enjoy – acting! Relatively new to Star Wars costuming, but have been a historical reenactor since 1989 (War of 1812, Civil War, Alamo). Also work with Forest Lawn Cemetery on their tours portraying several of their “permanent residents”. Other hobbies include collecting movie memorabilia, model building and garden railroading. My motto: You are never too old to have a happy childhood.

Favorite Events: Basically every one since I’ve been doing this for just a short time. However, ones that were pretty special include: Buffalo Comicon (since it was my first), “In Another Galaxy” at the Strong Museum, Clarence Winterfest, and of course Buffalo Bisons Star Wars Night!

Memories: Viewing “A New Hope” in 1977 and then eagerly anticipating “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi”, never imagining at the time that someday I would be portraying some of the characters. Also, having one of my grandsons solemnly present me with his toy Stormtrooper blaster and saying, “Here, Grampa. You can use this. I don’t play with it anymore.”

About Me: I have been a Star Wars fan all my life. Though I missed Episode IV original release, I was only 2, I was able to see it at the drive-in with my family in 1980. I saw all of the other films as they were released. As I child, I would rather have Star Wars toys than Barbies (that is still the case!)

Favorite Events: Buffalo Bisons Star Wars Night, Nickel City Con

Memories: I have truly found an extended family as a member of the North Ridge. The friendships I have made and the kindness and commitment that is shared by everyone means so very much to me.

About Me: My wife and I started our journey with Cosplay because of our love for Halloween and costuming. We eventually translated costuming into cosplay and attended our first convention, Niagara Falls Comic Con in 2013. Star Wars has always been a major part of my upbringing, especially since I was able to watch the entire Prequel Trilogy as they were released. As The Force Awakens was recently released, my wife and I cosplayed as Kylo and Rey for Buffalo Comic Con where we met and eventually joined with members of The North Ridge. This group of people have become close friends where we have fun enjoying our fandom and playing dress up while supporting our community.

Favorite Events: Buffalo Bisons Star Wars Night, Nickel City Con, Oishei Children’s Hospital visits.

Memories: It was an amazing and unforgettable experience to perform in my very first stage/live show ever, and it was for Star Wars Night X (2017).

About Me: I was born in May of 1977. Star Wars was forever in my upbringing. I am a wife to a big fan who has pulled me from my comfort zone and encouraged me to go all out. Therefore our 2 boys have grown to love Star Wars as well. We make events a family affair. Everybody has a costume and serves where and when needed. The North Ridge is a great family that we get to share in our love of Star Wars and serve our community. We have met so many people and have made some great friendships that extends outside of the Star Wars realm. I love being able to use my talents to reach others and give a smile and maybe a little hope.

Favorite Events: Buffalo Bisons Night 2014-2017, Filming “In a Galaxy” 2015, Summer Fest 2014, Motorama 2015 & 2016

About Me: As far back as I can remember, sci-fi has always been a huge part of my life, and no love of sci-fi could be complete without Star Wars. I’ve grown up playing with the toys and video games, watching the movies and shows, and reading all the reference books and schematic sets I could find. As my emerging passions for cosplay and charity work started opening new doors and introducing me to new friends, it wasn’t long before I became aware of the North Ridge, which has allowed me to pursue both at the same time, and it’s been a fun and rewarding ride ever since.

Favorite Events: My favorite event so far has to be Star Wars Night X at Coca Cola Field. The combination of excellent storytelling, top notch film production, and an amazing live performance created a truly unique and spectacular experience that I feel incredibly blessed and thankful to have been a part of.

Memories: One of my fondest memories related to the group was when Bobby, my friend and fellow member in both the North Ridge, and the superhero themed Superhero Alliance group, first asked me if I wanted to go along with him to film some drone shots for Star Wars Night IX. I remember at the time thinking it might be just a fun way to spend the evening, but after going there and not only finding out that there was a whole other group of like minded nerds who got together to celebrate their fandom and do things for the community, but then also getting to step out onto the field and feel the thrill of costuming up and battling before a cheering crowd of excited fans, well, it was an experience I haven’t forgotten.

About Me: I joined the group a couple years back and love my time here. Going to the events that I am able to get to is always a good time and what we’re able to give back to our community is very, very important. I love getting able to help when I can.

Favorite Events: Every SWN has been a blast, with 2014 being my favorite.

Memories: Seeing The Last Jedi with the group. Even better was the talk about it afterwards.

About Me: As a trained actor, martial artist, and a dyed-in-the-wool geek from a young age, Star Wars captured my attention and love early on and continued through adulthood. I found great joy in watching the stories evolve and imagining what it would be like to weild a lightsaber or move objects with the Force. It wasn’t until shortly after college when I met a special group of people that I realized I could combine my varied interests, and dove headfirst into the wonderful world of Star Wars Costuming. Drawing on my skills in costume construction from many years in the theatre, I built my first costume in 2009 and haven’t looked back since. I absolutely adore the work of crafting a costume or armor from scratch, and the time spent behind my sewing machine (or behind a heat gun or dremel!) is time I consider well spent. The added bonus of being able to raise funds for charity through my work is something I take great pride in. I love my North Ridge family and look forward to many more years spent doing what we all love: enjoying Star Wars!

Favorite Events: Star Wars Night at the Bisons, Nickel City Con, Buffalo Comic Con

Memories: My favorite Star Wars memory has to be one of the early years of Star Wars Night at the Bisons, (I would have to say 2010 or so?) where a huge rain delay almost caused the unthinkable, a canceled performance! I remember this being a devastating moment for the group, all of our hard work being crushed by Mother Nature. We sat dejected in the green room, when a miracle happened: the rain stopped! After a passioned plea from some higher-ups, we decided to brave the wet field and put on an exhilarating show that I’ll never forget! It was then that I realized that we had something very special on our hands, and now, nearly a decade later, has continued to feel like a wonderful privilege and a dream to be a part of!