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FRIDAY, AUGUST 13, 2004 We arrived at 0700 in Rosemont, IL, ready to once again invade Wizard World Chicago 2004. The names have changed but the mission remains the same... United We Find. We unsaddled our Dewbacks, and met our contacts on the loading dock. Jim from Federation Toys was kind enough to let us stow away gear and purchases at his booth. He also had a very impressive inventory, much more vast than last year. Walking thru we saw many of the same vendors from 2003. With Wayne Roberts (reconsgt) and David Syczylo (Boba Binks) on Point, Sandtrooper Dan maintained our flank, while dustrho and I photographed with our S.C.A.L.P. surveillance equipment and covered our rear. The first stop was the Gentle Giant booth. It was a scene that was a little hectic. The people at Gentle Giant described it as “Not as bad as last year but still a little unnerving. There seemed to be a significant amount of the Luke Stormtrooper bust, and the Exclusive bust-up were still available at 2:00 p.m. and when I asked for the item, I was also asked “How many?” We also found quite a few bargains at the Yestertoys booth where again the scene was not total chaos but a little hectic. It was hard to believe how low some of the prices were, while many others were so high. I also pointed out the expense for dealers to set up, a possible reason for the $12-19 OTC basic figure prices. We also got to spend a little time with our friends Nick from the Jawa and Pete Windu from Jedi Temple Archives. It was nice to see some of the other sites make it out to the event. We also got to see Paul from the Midwest Collectors Expo, and just a heads up for those procrastinating buying tickets for the September 11th Charity Breakfast. These tickets cannot be purchased at the door. Advance Ticket Sales ONLY!!! Keep in mind these are being sold at Wizard World and the chances of a sellout are very possible. We paid a visit to Emperor Crypt who is set up in the artist alley promoting his future with Hotinks.com. Pat and Daryl are two amazing talents and if you are in the artist alley make sure to stop by and give Crypt a holler! There is so much to do and in only one day we cut our trip a little short and headed back early. Without the presence of Hasbro, the show seemed to lack a little punch, however it did not affect the attendance total. It is a shame Hasbro decided to put focus this year on G.I. Joe and Transformers, because the lack of new toys in the Exhibitors section left us in dismay. The show seemed quite as busy if not busier than last year. The next two days will be enough to keep our collecting thirst quenched as we continue to Collect and Serve! Stay tuned to Sandtroopers.com for further updates and photos through the weekend.
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