S.T.E.A.M. into Star Wars 2024
Saturday, January 20 9:30 am to 2:00 pm
at Washington Community High School
Visit STEAM into Star Wars posted 12/29/22 This is a free, walk-in event! Join us for all of the fun with STEAM and Star Wars. The schedule to the right shows all of the fun events and activities. Scroll below to see who is attending this event to visit. Pre-register for the event! posted 1/2/24 You may pre-register for STEAM into Star Wars by Pre-registering IS NOT required to attend the event. A perk of pre-registering is you will receive a STEAM into Star Wars event badge, and you will be registered to win exclusive prizes. It is free to attend STEAM into Star Wars and pre-registering is not required to attend. Costumes and Dance Party! Bring the fun by wearing your own Star Wars costume to the event! Join us to close out the event this year with a 10 minute Dance Party at 1:50 after the grand prize is announced! Book Signings All Day: Dan Zehr (The Star Wars Book, Star Wars Character Encyclopedia updated and expanded, I am Your Father: Lessons for Parents, Protectors and Mentors). 9:30 - 11:00, 11:30 - 2:30: Olivia Bennett, Martin Matthews, J. Lawson, and Andy Zach. at each of their tables. |
Below are the times of scheduled events*: Podcast Stage 9:45 -Rebel Basecard Podcast 10:35 - Content Creators Panel 11:00 - Author's Panel 11:20 - Will Crouch - Star Wars Standup 11:35 - The Hyperion Hub podcast 12: 35 - Album Cockpit podcast 1:00 - Coffee with Kenobi podcast 1:50 - 2:00 - Star Wars Dance Party!! Galactic Crafts 9:30 - Coloring Pages 10:00 - BB-8 Puppets 10:30 - Rey Bookmarks 11:00 - Cardboard Puppets 11:30 -Lunch Break 12:30 - Activity Packets 1:00 - Lightsabers Padawan Storytime 10:00 - Katie Mann and Sarah Hefta, Central 51 librarians 10:35 - Will Crouch, Comedian & Star Wars fan 11:00 - Ali Dixon, Washington District Library Youth Services Director 12:35 - Jake F. Isaac O. and Mrs. Stout from WCHS drama's The Adams Family 1:05 - Tanya Prater, John L. Hensey Librarian Concessions Availability 9:30 - 11:00 - Coffee and Breakfast Treats 11:30 - 1:00 - Lunch: Subs and Pizza All Day: candy, popcorn, water, soda, Gatorade * Schedules subject to change last update 1/2/24 |
Join us for live Podcast Recordings
Coffee with Kenobi with Dan Zehr
Coffee With Kenobi is your spoiler-free place for Star Wars community and conversation. Since May of 2013, CWK has discussed the mythology of Star Wars from a place of intelligence and humor. Hosted by educator, author, speaker, and Celebration host, Dan Zehr, the family-friendly podcast features LIVE video, interviews, reviews, and event coverage that bring insight and analysis not found anywhere else. Whether you love Star Wars films, animated shows, books, comics, or collectibles, CWK has something for you. This is the podcast you’re looking for! |
Rebel Base Card Podcast with Greg McLaughlin
The Rebel Base Card is a podcast and social media channel that covers Star Wars cards, collecting and community. Since its inception in 2019, it has highlighted artists, actors, authors, collectors, cosplayers, creators, and amazing fans of all things related to a Galaxy far, far away. Within its podcast feed you will find folks whose works, passion, and positivity can’t help but inspire and entertain you with each episode. And beginning in 2021 a second micro podcast series debuted with co-host Gregory Cass from @eyeoncanon covering the many Star Wars TV shows released from Disney+ with its own unique spin. You can find and follow the Rebel Base Card on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @rebelbasecard as well as the website, rebelbasecard.com. Creator and host Greg McLaughlin lives with his family in the Chicago suburbs and tries to keep his Star Wars collection from overflowing. The family admits this last part is not succeeding. Link to the podcast feed. https://anchor.fm/greg-mclaughlin |
The Hyperion Hub with John Alois, Shawn Degenhart, and John Redlingshafer
We welcome for the second year, The Hyperion Hub! The Hyperion Hub is your meeting place for all things Disney. We cover everything from the parks, to movies, to music. From Walt to the Mouse, to Star Wars and Marvel. Over the past two years we've talked with Imagineers, authors, directors, producers, planners, your favorite podcast hosts and more. Join us at the Hyperion Hub wherever you catch your podcasts. |
The Album Cockpit Podcast - Ross Hollebon
The Album Cockpit Podcast (A Spotify podcast) celebrates fan-favorite albums, one track at a time with host Ross Hollebon. A guest co-pilot selects an album with a special place in their heart—ideally with some amazing experiential aspects—and we discuss the music, the memories, and what the album means today. Thanks for pushing play! Let’s get ready to take off and enjoy the journey! Podcast link |
Visit with our Authors and Artists
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Dan Zehr - Author
Dan Zehr is one of the most recognized and respected personalities in Star Wars fandom. His ability to blend critical thinking and intellectual honesty with a sense of humor has served him well as the host and brand director of the popular podcast, Coffee With Kenobi. Zehr is a longtime contributor to StarWars.com and is the co-author of three Star Wars books: The Star Wars Book, the Star Wars Character Encyclopedia (2021), & Star Wars I Am Your Father: Lessons For Parents, Protectors, and Mentors. He is also a prominent and trusted influencer, attending Star Wars Hollywood premieres, Disney theme park events, and product launches worldwide. Zehr’s positive outlook, integrity, and authentic demeanor also contribute to his other passion: education. He is a prolific high school English teacher, with an emphasis on Mythology and Composition, and has an MS in Teaching and Learning. His work incorporating Star Wars into the classroom garnered him a role in Target’s “There’s A Rebel In All Of Us” commercial during the Rogue One merchandise product launch. Zehr is also a featured keynote speaker, host, and presenter. His show, Coffee With Kenobi, was the first-ever podcast to appear on the Star Wars Celebration podcast stage. |
Olivia Bennett - Author
A 2018 WCHS alum, Olivia J. Bennett is a writer, artist, educator, and lover of all things cozy and aesthetically pleasing. She graduated from Illinois Central College with an Associate in Arts, and is currently studying to be a high school English teacher at Illinois State University. Her debut novel, A Cactus In the Valley, was published when she was a 17-year-old senior in high school. She holds a National Gold Medal in Flash Fiction from Scholastic Art & Writing. When not creating, Olivia can be found baking cookies, binge-watching TV with her partner, or cuddling her two cats. Links! my website: https://oliviajthewordshak.wixsite.com/oliviajcreates Amazon bookstore: https://www.amazon.com/Olivia-J-Bennett/e/B077625K5X?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1670449702&sr=8-1 |
Zeek's Comics and Games
Zeek's Comics and Games opened late summer of 2015. For the past 8 Years we have been an innovative, engaging and growing community of nerdy customers, fans and family. At Zeek's we specialize in New Comics, Miniature War Gaming, Role-playing Games, Card Games and more! We strive to offer you customer service, selection and flexibility for all of your hobby and nerdy related needs. Zeek's has attended all STEAM into Star Wars shows and is a huge supporter of the WCHS Game Club. Thank you! |
Jeremy Berkley - Artist
Jeremy Berkley is a graphic designer/illustrator/printmaker based out of East Peoria, IL. His pop culture inspired silk screen prints have been exhibited in art galleries across the country. Most notably the #1 pop culture gallery in the world Gallery 1988: Los Angeles, where he is a regular contributor. https://www.instagram.com/jeremy.berkley/ http://www.berkleycc.com/ |
Martin Matthews - Author
Martin Matthews makes his second appearance at STEAM into Star Wars. He is an expat from England, Great Britain. After living in California for many years, he now lives in Central Illinois with his beautiful wife, amazing son, and a grumpy old cat. Martin began his writing career as a child, storyboarding Sonic the Hedgehog comic books for his family. Later, he progressed to writing Star Trek fan-fiction before attempting his first novel Merlania at 16 — a 200,000 word science-fiction epic. He’s been writing novels and short stories ever since. His debut novel THE GRAVEYARD GIRL AND THE BONEYARD BOY won the Pencraft Award for paranormal YA fiction. Learn more about Martin Matthews: Website: MartinMatthewsWrites.com Social Media: facebook.com/MartinMatthewsWrites |
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Andy Zach - Author
STEAM into Star Wars welcomes back Author Andy Zach! Andy Zach was born Anastasius Zacharias, in Greece. His parents were both zombies. Growing up, he loved animals of all kinds. After moving to the United States as a child, in high school, he won a science fair by bringing toads back from suspended animation. Before turning to fiction, Andy published his Ph.D. thesis "Methods of Revivification for Various Species of the Kingdom Animalia" in the prestigious JAPM, Journal of Paranormal Medicine. Andy, in addition to being the foremost expert on paranormal animals, enjoys breeding phoenixes. He lives in Illinois with his five phoenixes. With his first book, "Zombie Turkeys" Andy blazed new ground in paranormal humor. The second book in his Life After Life Chronicles, "My Undead Mother-in-law" expands the zombie plague from turkeys to humans, with hilarious results. You can find both volumes on Amazon Kindle, Createspace print, and Audible audiobook editions. Having conquered paranormal animal humor in his first series, Andy Zach launches into middle school superhero genre with Secret Supers. Four disabled seventh graders all get superpowers. Who knew a disability could be so useful for hiding a superpower? But the four friends, Jeremy, Dan, Kayla, and Aubrey confront problems that can't be solved by superpowers. |
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J. Lawson - Author
J. Lawson was born and raised in Davenport, Iowa. She moved to Peoria, Illinois in 2008, where she currently resides with her husband, son, and three dogs. She graduated from Western Illinois University with a Master's in English Literature. She has been published in multiple literary magazines, and The Amulets (book one in The Amulets Trilogy) is her debut novel. Lawson enjoys reading fantasy, thriller, mystery, and most varieties of fiction. She also loves 80s-90s rock music. This is J. Lawson's first visit to STEAM into Star Wars. For more information: https://authorjlawson.com/ |
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Tailored Geek - Creative Artist
My passion for sewing is rooted in my constant, insatiable search for perfection. My head has always been filled with visions of the perfect outfit, bag, decoration, whatever it may be, and I can never seem to find what I want available to buy, so instead I create it! I was never a child prodigy doing fashion designs as a toddler; I actually didn’t learn to sew at all until High School and didn’t learn to do it well until college. I now have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Fashion Design, Merchandising, and Styling, but my skills are still growing and improving every day. I’m inspired by other artists, and I love costuming and cosplay because it poses a gratifying challenge to turn a drawing into reality, but it’s also so exciting to see how I and other creators put our unique personal touches into each recreating the same original design. This is the second appearance of Tailored Geek at STEAM into Star Wars. |
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Troi Westbrook - creative artist
Ever since I was young, I was drawn to the arts. Over time, I learned I had a natural skill set for the visual arts. I studied Photography in college and have taken thousands of pictures since. From there I began to dabble in creating 3-dimensional art, using whatever materials I could find. My love of comic books eventually lead me to cosplay. During my self-study, I realized creating cosplay costumes was much easier than I thought. I found several online resources that teach foamsmithing. I want to share these resources with young creators. I will be providing demos tutorials in foamsmithing for beginners. I will also have some unique Star Wars merchandise for sale. This will be Troi's first appearance at STEAM into Star Wars! |
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Jaime Leonard - d20diner
Jaime Leonard is the owner and operator of d20dinner Handcrafted Resin Dice. She is a 4th grade teacher who has loved playing games her entire life. She grew up playing games with her mom and anyone who was willing to play! At the end of 2020, she played her first session of Dungeons and Dragons ever and immediately fell in love with the game. She has been playing (almost) every other week ever since. In 2021, she saw a video online of some dice someone else had made and said, "I could do that!" She began her dice making journey in February of 2021 and has grown to love her craft. She loves meeting other TTRPG players and talking about all things D&D with them. In 2024, she is looking forward to launching her own website for dice sales as well as launching dice that have her very own logo on them in place of the 20 on the d20 as well as a series of dice with the Galactic Republic symbol in place of the 20 on the d20! |
PeoriaCon
PeoriaCon® has proven that the Midwest has been craving a quality event like this for years. Since we have begun hosting this amazing event, the public has supported us from Chicago to St. Louis and everywhere in between! We are ready for another great year with the best comic book, cosplay, and gaming convention fun in the area. We are lining up all of your favorites dealers for this year’s show. - Artists - Special Guests - Comic book dealers - Cosplay Contest with best of show cash prizes! - Games - Collectibles - Your favorite loot dealers. Visit this year's PeoriaCon is March 2-3 at the Peoria Civic Center! |
Welcome to Tabletop Gamers for Good, where gaming fuels philanthropy! We organize engaging events to support local non-profits, turning every gamer's enthusiasm into positive change. Whether you're a casual player or a pro, join us in making a difference. Our unique approach directs event proceeds to support noble causes, creating a community where passion and compassion unite.
We are also on a mission to bring joy to children and families in need through tabletop game donations. Your contributions will not only find new homes but also bring comfort, laughter, and togetherness to those facing challenges. Join us in building a community where the gift of play becomes a universal source of compassion and support. Every contribution counts – whether gently used or brand-new games, let's turn playtime into an opportunity for positive impact! Contact info: [email protected] |
The WCHS Robotics Team, Mechanical Monarchy (5442)
The Team began in the fall of 2014 and is dedicated to giving students the opportunity to learn career skills in a rewarding and competitive environment. Each year, the team spends most of its time designing and building robots to compete in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition (FRC). FRC is an international program consisting of over 6,000 teams from around the globe. Teams compete in regional events for a spot at the World Championships held in Houston, TX. Teams can advance based on robot performance or through awards that highlight the best of the FIRST experience. Through the program, students gain useful knowledge and skills by working with mentors in the areas of design, programming, electrical, fabrication, and marketing. The 2023-2024 school year is the 10th year for Mechanical Monarchy. |
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Other authors, artists, and vendors attending STEAM into Star Wars
501st Legion - Website
Chris Grimm - artist - Website
Washington District Library - Webpage
Lux Blox - Webpage
last update 1/16/24
Other authors, artists, and vendors attending STEAM into Star Wars
501st Legion - Website
Chris Grimm - artist - Website
Washington District Library - Webpage
Lux Blox - Webpage
last update 1/16/24
Meet our STEAM into Star Wars Special Guests
William Crouch - Comedian
America’s Sweetheart - Will Crouch - is an up and coming comedian with a knack for physical, philosophical, diabolical, and straight up weird stand up sets. This local from Washington, Illinois loves his niche and weird facts, and has a funny way of showing it. Crouch loves to make old ideas new, and give you the chance to try and understand just what is going on in that head of his. Whether it's with his big idea questions, his retro impressions, or simply the trick of one hand clapping (It’s SUPER easy… Give it a go), he has plenty of tools up his sleeve. If you find yourself with Crouch on stage, prepare yourself. This professor is ready to give you a lesson you won’t ever forget. Look Will up on: Instagram: will_the_crouch Facebook:Will Crouch |
Dan Reem - Concessions Manager, Podcaster co-host and co-creator of Teachers in the Dungeon
Dan Reem is one half of the Teachers in the Dungeon podcast, where he and Tom Gross interview creators from the D&D world and talk about homebrew campaigns, new D&D products and just a whole bunch of stuff. In addition, Dan is usually engrossed in planning new homebrew worlds of his own and building the terrain to match, writing and producing music, lifting weights and practicing martial arts. Oh, and he’s been a full-time teacher for almost 30 years, married for 31, with two near-adult children. This is Dan's second year participating in STEAM into Star Wars. |
Click here to pre-register for STEAM into Star Wars 2024
Past Events:
Explore the history of STEAM into Star Wars and Star Wars Reads Day
at Washington Community High School
2021 STEAM into Star Wars Online Celebration posted 1/3/21
Even though the in person event has been cancelled, we can still celebrate S.T.E.A.M. and reading! Join the Washington District Library and the WCHS Book Club in some fun videos to celebrate the week of January 4. Coffee with Kenobi and the Rebel Base Card Podcast will also release a special show that week as well. Join us on Twitter for video releases at noon each day Monday,
January 4-8. @wchs_308library
The videos will also release on the WCHS Library YouTube channel in a playlist titled STEAM into Star Wars 2021.
Here is the schedule of videos and activities for the week Have fun, stay safe and May the Force Be With You! #WCHSSteamIntoStarWars
Monday, January 4
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode I: Welcome
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode II: Children's Books with Kaleigh and Mr. Gross
Tuesday, Janauary 5
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode III: YA Books with Rebekah, Clara, Will Crouch and Mr. Gross
Wednesday, January 6
10:30 am: Washington District Library Facebook Live Storytime with Ali
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode IV: Star Wars Novels with Rebekah, Will Crouch and Mr. Gross
Thursday, January 7
9:00 am LIghtsaber STEAM craft pickup at Washington District Library while supplies last
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode V: Star Wars Nonfiction books with Mr. Dan Zehr, Clara, Rebekah, Will Crouch, Kaleigh, and Mr.Gross
Friday, January 8
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode VI: STEAM into Star Wars memories of the past five years with Mr. Dan Zehr, Rebekah,
Will Crouch, Clara, Kaleigh and Mr. Gross
Even though the in person event has been cancelled, we can still celebrate S.T.E.A.M. and reading! Join the Washington District Library and the WCHS Book Club in some fun videos to celebrate the week of January 4. Coffee with Kenobi and the Rebel Base Card Podcast will also release a special show that week as well. Join us on Twitter for video releases at noon each day Monday,
January 4-8. @wchs_308library
The videos will also release on the WCHS Library YouTube channel in a playlist titled STEAM into Star Wars 2021.
Here is the schedule of videos and activities for the week Have fun, stay safe and May the Force Be With You! #WCHSSteamIntoStarWars
Monday, January 4
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode I: Welcome
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode II: Children's Books with Kaleigh and Mr. Gross
Tuesday, Janauary 5
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode III: YA Books with Rebekah, Clara, Will Crouch and Mr. Gross
Wednesday, January 6
10:30 am: Washington District Library Facebook Live Storytime with Ali
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode IV: Star Wars Novels with Rebekah, Will Crouch and Mr. Gross
Thursday, January 7
9:00 am LIghtsaber STEAM craft pickup at Washington District Library while supplies last
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode V: Star Wars Nonfiction books with Mr. Dan Zehr, Clara, Rebekah, Will Crouch, Kaleigh, and Mr.Gross
Friday, January 8
Noon: STEAM into Star Wars Episode VI: STEAM into Star Wars memories of the past five years with Mr. Dan Zehr, Rebekah,
Will Crouch, Clara, Kaleigh and Mr. Gross
In person STEAM into Star Wars January 2021 Cancelled posted 12/21/20
We regret to announce that the 6th Annual STEAM into Star Wars event, scheduled for January 9, 2021 is cancelled. Stay tuned to social media during the week of January 4 for some fun videos from the WCHS Library and the Washington District Library in an online celebration. We will see you in 2022!
#WCHSSteamIntoStarWars
We regret to announce that the 6th Annual STEAM into Star Wars event, scheduled for January 9, 2021 is cancelled. Stay tuned to social media during the week of January 4 for some fun videos from the WCHS Library and the Washington District Library in an online celebration. We will see you in 2022!
#WCHSSteamIntoStarWars
S.T.E.A.M. into Star Wars January 2020
updated 1/6/2020
S.T.E.A.M. into Star Wars is a celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math, Reading and Writing. This event for the entire family is January 11, 2020 from 9:30am to 1:00pm in the Multipurpose Room at Washington Community High School. This is a free event! Please check the WCHS Library Twitter page @wchs_308library for updates.
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Below are the times of scheduled events:
Podcasts 10:30 to 11:15: Coffee with Kenobi 11:20 to 11:30: A Star Wars Performance by Will Crouch (WCHS Alumnus) 12:05 to 12:45: Rebel Base Card Podcast Jedi Academy (Panel Discussions) 10:00 to 10:30: Science Fiction Writers 10:40 to 11:10: Local Artists 11:20 to 12:00: Writers and Podcasters 12:10 to 12:40: Artist Workshop Painting with Coffee (register at Jeremy Zentner's table) Galactic Crafts 9:30 to 10:00: Coloring Pages 10:00 to 10:30: R2D2 Pencil Holders 10:30 to 11:00: Paper Jawas 11:00 to 11:30: Darth Vader Bookmarks 11:30 to 12:00: BB-8 Puppets 12:00 to 12:30: Lightsabers 12:30 to 1:00: Coloring Pages Padawan Storytime 10:00 - Ali Dixon, Washington District Library Youth Services Director 10:30 - Georgia Duncan, WCHS Varsity Basketball 11:00 - Mr. Cox, Central Primary School Principal 11:30 - Brooke Evans and Joy English, WCHS Cross Country State Qualifiers 12:00 - Mr. Hoelscher, Central Intermediate School Principal 12:30 - Luca Bulleri and Ava Stovall, WCHS Drama Club |
Local Artists Attending STEAM into Star Wars 2020
Camron Johnson
Camron Johnson is a comic book artist/author base out of Central Illinois (WCHS class of 2011). His debut title, BONECHECK was published by Broken Icon Comics. Volume 2 of the best-selling series is set to release on February 28th, 2020 and will debut at the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2) and at the Peoria Comic Con the following weekend. Upon graduating from Illinois State University in 2015, he began his professional career traveling across the nation to comic conventions and working from his home studio in Morton, IL. He is also known for his globally recognized cover art on the horror novel series, Rabbit in Red by Joe Chianakas (Peoria native). Other noteworthy works include: Thy Neighbor: Engage (creator owned) Detective Sol: Blood int he Redwoods (Rayburn) Nightmares Under the Moonlight (Chianakas) Children's Books: Light the Night (Williams) I've Lost My Special Power! (Whalen) A Family Story (Roulds) Follow his social media accounts for inside looks on new work: Instagram: @camrontjohnson Facebook: Camron Johnson Illustrations Website: www.camronjohnson.com |
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Jeremy Zentner
Jeremy Zentner is a Peoria area local. When he's not subbing classes, taking his kids to karate, or fixing up his house, he can be found illustrating pop characters and painting amazing starships. His art has been displayed at the Fondulac District Library and he is often available for commission. Visit his facebook at facebook.com/geekartbyzentner. |
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Kiley Beecher
Local Authors attending STEAM into Star Wars 2020
Martin Matthews
Martin Matthews is an expat from England, Great Britain. After living in California for many years, he now lives in Central Illinois with his beautiful wife, amazing son, and a grumpy old cat. Martin began his writing career as a child, storyboarding Sonic the Hedgehog comic books for his family. Later, he progressed to writing Star Trek fan-fiction before attempting his first novel Merlania at 16 — a 200,000 word science-fiction epic. He’s been writing novels and short stories ever since. His debut novel THE GRAVEYARD GIRL AND THE BONEYARD BOY won the Pencraft Award for paranormal YA fiction. Learn more about Martin Matthews: martinmatthewswrites.com https://www.facebook.com/MartinMatthewsWrites Moria: https://www.amazon.com/Versus-Nightmare-Machine-Martin-Matthews-ebook/dp/B07XF665V4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RJSZXDP9XVNX&keywords=moria+versus+the+nightmare+machine&qid=1578159798&sprefix=moria+v%2Caps%2C163&sr=8-1 Graveyard Girl: https://www.amazon.com/Graveyard-Girl-Boneyard-Boy-ebook-dp-B0789THWSJ/dp/B0789THWSJ/ref=mt_kindle?_encoding=UTF8&me=&qid= |
Andy Zach
Andy Zach was born Anastasius Zacharias, in Greece. His parents were both zombies. Growing up, he loved animals of all kinds. After moving to the United States as a child, in high school he won a science fair by bringing toads back from suspended animation. Before turning to fiction, Andy published his PhD thesis, "Methods of Revivification for Various Species of the Kingdom Animalia" in the prestigious JAPM, Journal of Paranormal Medicine. Andy, in addition to being the foremost expert on paranormal animals, enjoys breeding phoenixes. He lives in Illinois with his five phoenixes. For more information on Andy Zach and his novels: Zombie Turkeys - the comic urban fantasy about turkeys that can't be killed! Follow author Andy Zach on Facebook or AndyZach on Author Twitter: Visit Andy's web page andyzach.net for a FREE excerpt. To read on Amazon, click here. To subscribe to his newsletter, click here. |
Cory Clubb
Writers and Podcasters attending STEAM into Star Wars 2020
Dan Zehr - Coffee with Kenobi, StarWars.com, IGN
Dan Z is the Host and driving force behind Coffee With Kenobi. He is a Feature Blog Contributor for Star Wars.com, as well as a writer for IGN, and is an occasional contributor to Star Wars Insider. He launched Coffee With Kenobi with co-creator and award-winning designer, Cory Clubb, in 2013, and is a prominent influencer in Star Wars fandom. He is also a prolific high school educator, who teaches Literature and Composition, and has a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning.
His work combining Star Wars and education garnered him a role in the Target Rogue One Star Wars commercial, as well as profiles in the HuffPost, Forbes, and Illinois State University’s Statewide Standard. As a featured educator and Star Wars personality, Dan Z is also a recognized keynote speaker, host, and presenter. He was a consultant for Ian Doescher’s William Shakespeare’s Star Wars books and wrote an article for Star Wars Celebration Orlando’s Commemorative Program. He has appeared on panels at Star Wars Celebration and travels the world covering Star Wars products and events. Dan Z resides in Illinois with his wife and three boys.
Dan Z is the Host and driving force behind Coffee With Kenobi. He is a Feature Blog Contributor for Star Wars.com, as well as a writer for IGN, and is an occasional contributor to Star Wars Insider. He launched Coffee With Kenobi with co-creator and award-winning designer, Cory Clubb, in 2013, and is a prominent influencer in Star Wars fandom. He is also a prolific high school educator, who teaches Literature and Composition, and has a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning.
His work combining Star Wars and education garnered him a role in the Target Rogue One Star Wars commercial, as well as profiles in the HuffPost, Forbes, and Illinois State University’s Statewide Standard. As a featured educator and Star Wars personality, Dan Z is also a recognized keynote speaker, host, and presenter. He was a consultant for Ian Doescher’s William Shakespeare’s Star Wars books and wrote an article for Star Wars Celebration Orlando’s Commemorative Program. He has appeared on panels at Star Wars Celebration and travels the world covering Star Wars products and events. Dan Z resides in Illinois with his wife and three boys.
Greg McLaughlin - Rebel Base Card Podcast
Growing up in southeastern Ohio, Greg saw the original Star Wars late in the game when it hit the drive-in circuit in late 77-78. He was immediately hooked! He and his friends avidly collected the action figures, comics, and of course the trading cards of the original saga, having no idea how long the passion would last. Years later, his family often thinks the same, as they eye the "junk" he has around the house that he affectionately refers to as "collectible." Starting his career in video production at a small NBC affiliate, a post college job offer in the Pacific island of Saipan changed pretty much everything else from that point on. It was there he expanded more into video, graphic design and radio. It was there he also would meet his wife of 21 years, Rona. They would spend some additional time their, as well as Tampa Bay before settling in the Chicagoland area with their son and daughter. His early professional career is probably why he has never strayed to far from media, having penned the occasional blog, an Instagram comic, and of course the latest venture, The Rebel Base Card, and Instagram page and Podcast dedicated to Star Wars card collecting and other related items from a Galaxy far, far away. He has been able to interview sketch card artists and people who do all kinds of Star Wars inspired art as well as cosplayers, collectors and members of the fan community who have amazing passion for the franchise. He has also had the fortune in his first year of the podcast to speak with Mark Von Ohlen from Topps and Dominic Pace from Disney's The Mandalorian. Greg spends most of this idle time trying to find more idle time. Check out the podcast here
Growing up in southeastern Ohio, Greg saw the original Star Wars late in the game when it hit the drive-in circuit in late 77-78. He was immediately hooked! He and his friends avidly collected the action figures, comics, and of course the trading cards of the original saga, having no idea how long the passion would last. Years later, his family often thinks the same, as they eye the "junk" he has around the house that he affectionately refers to as "collectible." Starting his career in video production at a small NBC affiliate, a post college job offer in the Pacific island of Saipan changed pretty much everything else from that point on. It was there he expanded more into video, graphic design and radio. It was there he also would meet his wife of 21 years, Rona. They would spend some additional time their, as well as Tampa Bay before settling in the Chicagoland area with their son and daughter. His early professional career is probably why he has never strayed to far from media, having penned the occasional blog, an Instagram comic, and of course the latest venture, The Rebel Base Card, and Instagram page and Podcast dedicated to Star Wars card collecting and other related items from a Galaxy far, far away. He has been able to interview sketch card artists and people who do all kinds of Star Wars inspired art as well as cosplayers, collectors and members of the fan community who have amazing passion for the franchise. He has also had the fortune in his first year of the podcast to speak with Mark Von Ohlen from Topps and Dominic Pace from Disney's The Mandalorian. Greg spends most of this idle time trying to find more idle time. Check out the podcast here
Megan Cullinan - Fantha Tracks
Megan has been a Star Wars fan since the Special Editions brought the movies back to the big screen in 1997. Other than watching the movies, she enjoys reading through the Expanded Universe books, watching Star Wars Rebels, and listening to all the soundtracks. Megan hails from Illinois and is a bank manager by day, a singer/voice teacher/music director by night, and a Star Wars fan all day long!
She also has a Star Wars themed blog about her journey through cancer at rebelcancerwar.wordpress.com Megan is the host of the Spark of Hope podcast and a co-host on the “Star Wars: Legends and Lore” podcast!
Megan has been a Star Wars fan since the Special Editions brought the movies back to the big screen in 1997. Other than watching the movies, she enjoys reading through the Expanded Universe books, watching Star Wars Rebels, and listening to all the soundtracks. Megan hails from Illinois and is a bank manager by day, a singer/voice teacher/music director by night, and a Star Wars fan all day long!
She also has a Star Wars themed blog about her journey through cancer at rebelcancerwar.wordpress.com Megan is the host of the Spark of Hope podcast and a co-host on the “Star Wars: Legends and Lore” podcast!
Daniel Lo - Fantha Tracks
A Star Wars fan for as long as he can remember, Daniel Lo contributes interviews for Fantha Tracks and the Boba Fett Fan Club. He has also worked in world championship motorcycle racing since 2009 as a photographer who occasionally writes, and has been pleasantly surprised by how often the two worlds collide. Landing a small but credited appearance in a Star Wars film (or TV show!) is the next item on his bucket list.
A Star Wars fan for as long as he can remember, Daniel Lo contributes interviews for Fantha Tracks and the Boba Fett Fan Club. He has also worked in world championship motorcycle racing since 2009 as a photographer who occasionally writes, and has been pleasantly surprised by how often the two worlds collide. Landing a small but credited appearance in a Star Wars film (or TV show!) is the next item on his bucket list.
Ross Hollebon - TatooineTimes.com
Ross is a writer & producer for TatooineTimes.com and loves promoting the creators and stories from a galaxy far, far away through the written word, video and social media. His day jobs include the Manager of Campus Marketing & Communications at the University of Indianapolis and Adjunct Professor of Sports Journalism and Introduction to Sports Media within the College of Communication at Butler University. Ross is a digital strategist with a passion for connecting brands, popular culture and experiential opportunities for consumers and sponsors within digital and traditional mediums with more than 20 years of professional sports and agency experience. He has earned an MA in Integrated Design and is working on a second MA in Public Relations with a focus on tourism & hospitality.
Ross is a writer & producer for TatooineTimes.com and loves promoting the creators and stories from a galaxy far, far away through the written word, video and social media. His day jobs include the Manager of Campus Marketing & Communications at the University of Indianapolis and Adjunct Professor of Sports Journalism and Introduction to Sports Media within the College of Communication at Butler University. Ross is a digital strategist with a passion for connecting brands, popular culture and experiential opportunities for consumers and sponsors within digital and traditional mediums with more than 20 years of professional sports and agency experience. He has earned an MA in Integrated Design and is working on a second MA in Public Relations with a focus on tourism & hospitality.
Star Wars Reads Day 2018
Experience Star Wars Reads Day Live Podcast Recordings! posted 10/24/18
When you visit Star Wars Reads Day, you can experience the fun of a live Podcast Recording. Join Coffee With Kenobi from 9:15 to 10:00 at WCHS. Coffee With Kenobi is hosted by Dan Zehr and analyzes with a critical lens the Star Wars saga. Coffee With Kenobi has won numerous awards over the years including the Fan's Choice 2016 Best Star Wars podcast, and they also recorded live on stage at Star Wars Celebration in Los Angeles in 2016.
When you visit the Washington District Library, you can join the hosts of Star Wars Action News who look at and discuss all things collectible in the Star Wars Universe. Join Arnie, Marjorie and Andrew to discuss what's new and reminisce on what's old with Star Wars collectibles.
When you visit Star Wars Reads Day, you can experience the fun of a live Podcast Recording. Join Coffee With Kenobi from 9:15 to 10:00 at WCHS. Coffee With Kenobi is hosted by Dan Zehr and analyzes with a critical lens the Star Wars saga. Coffee With Kenobi has won numerous awards over the years including the Fan's Choice 2016 Best Star Wars podcast, and they also recorded live on stage at Star Wars Celebration in Los Angeles in 2016.
When you visit the Washington District Library, you can join the hosts of Star Wars Action News who look at and discuss all things collectible in the Star Wars Universe. Join Arnie, Marjorie and Andrew to discuss what's new and reminisce on what's old with Star Wars collectibles.
Star Wars Reads Day 2017
We take Star Wars pretty seriously around here. We love the story, the characters, the action, the collectibles and all the talk that goes along with it. To honor the culture and genius of Star Wars we celebrate twice a year: Star Wars Reads Day (in October) and May the Fourth Be With You (May 4).
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Star Wars Reads Day 2017 in Pictures posted 10/11/17
Another Star Wars Reads Day has come and what a day it was. Over 130 members of the Star Wars Community came out to celebrate a great story and reading. There are so many thanks to go around, but what better way to enjoy the day than by pictures. Thanks to senior Alayna Nulty, who is in Journalism and also a member of the Book Club executive board, for taking such beautiful images of the day! |
Star Wars Reads Day Schedule for October 22, 2016
SWRD Work Day posted 10/13/16
Star Wars Reads Day is nearing and preparations have been under way for quite some time. Here are a few images of our first annual SWRD work day! |
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2nd Annual Star Wars Reads Day at WCHS posted 9/21/16
The official announcement is here! The WCHS Book Club's Second Annual Star Wars Reads Day will be Saturday, October 22 from 9:00 am to Noon. Mark your calendars right now and make plans to attend for all the fun, crafts, podcasts, 501st costumes, dramatic readings, games, prizes and more! Stay tuned to this page or follow the 308library on Twitter @wchs_308library for more information. |
May the Fourth Be with You: 2016!
Once again 308Library celebrated "May the Fourth" by inviting students and staff to wear their favorite Star Wars t-shirts and sweaters! We had an even bigger turnout of Star Wars garb in 2016. Check out the pictures and May the Fourth Be with You, Always. |
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Star Wars Reads Day Entertains and Inspires posted 10/16/15
The Force was strong at WCHS on October 10 as the 501st Midwest Imperial Garrison, the Rebel Alliance and the Mandalorian Mercs helped to celebrate Star Wars Reads Day. There were many activities from pictures with the 501st and crew, games, Star Wars story time, podcasts from Star Wars Nerds Unite and Coffee with Kenobi, crafts, and prizes. Star Wars Reads Day is a day to celebrate and promote literacy to everyone. To promote literacy, the WCHS book club held a Scholastic Book Fair and all proceeds from the fair were used to purchase new books to give back to the community. A special thanks to all who volunteered to make the event such a great time. Also a special thanks to the 501st Midwest Imperial Garrison, Star Wars Nerds Unite, Coffee with Kenobi, Zeeks Comics and Games, the Washington District Library, many WCHS staff members, for their help to make the event special. Thanks also to the community who came out to have a great time. We look forward to next year's Star Wars Reads Day. |
Star Wars Reads Day 2015: Read Like a Rebel posted 9/14/15
Join us for a celebration of reading for Star Wars Reads Day at WCHS on October 10 from 9:00 am to Noon. This exciting event is hosted by the WCHS Book Club and supports their mission to promote literacy not only at WCHS, but also to support literacy in the community. There will be activities for the entire family including games, crafts, table activities, and door prizes! The Illinois Chapter of the 501st Legion Star Wars Imperial costuming club will be on hand for pictures. In addition, two Star Wars podcasts will be present to discuss Star Wars Reads Day. A live podcast from StarWars.com Community members, Coffee with Kenobi will be here to record, and to get your thoughts on Star Wars, as well as the importance of literacy. Coffee With Kenobi is hosted by WCHS English teacher Dan Zehr (who also writes for Star Wars.com), and community member, Cory Clubb. This show will also feature a recorded visit by author Ian Doescher, specially produced for WCHS Star Wars Reads Day. Also, local Washington podcasters from Star Wars Nerds Unite, Tim and Jennifer Van Autreve and Josh Mason, will also take the stage to discuss reading and the Star Wars galaxy. Star Wars Nerds Unite is a podcast focused on the new Star Wars canon and media coming out of the Disney acquisition of LucasFilm. The podcasters will also be available to talk with following their shows. Be sure to also check out the Scholastic Fair. The fair is hosted by the WCHS Book Club and all proceeds from the fair will be used to purchase books to promote literacy to families in need in the Washington area. After the event is over, head over to the Washington Public Library at 1:00 for a free showing of the film that started it all, Star Wars: A New Hope. There will be free popcorn and door prizes. Be sure to check back here regularly for updates to the schedule, and don't miss this exciting opportunity! |
May the Fourth Be With You 2015
May 4, the Star Wars fanfare poured through the hallways to start the day as the cantina band, the Imperial March and other famous John Williams, Star Wars music played between the hours as WCHS celebrated May the Fourth Be With You. Students who visited the library were given a chance to show off their knowledge Episodes 1-6 movie lore by answering Star Wars Trivia. During lunch, those who were decked out in their favorite Star Wars t-shirts gathered for group pictures. Fifth hour was also spent speaking like Jedi Master, Yoda. You could sense a buzz in the air with anticipation of the seventh episode to come out in December! |
Star Wars Reads Day 2014
October 10, the WCHS Library celebrated the third annual Star Wars Reads Day . There was Star Wars trivia with varying degrees of difficulty, but students and staff were encouraged to research the answers. The prizes were generously donated by Disney Publishing as they sent a number of Star Wars books. Thanks to Mr. Zehr for getting those book donations!! Also, Mr. Gross and Mr. Zehr (local Star Wars guru and co-host of the famous podcast Coffee With Kenobi) displayed a dozen or so Star Wars artifacts, highlighted by Anikin Skywalker's lightsaber hilt, and hosted a Google Hangout that was attended by Peoria Heights Grade School, Notre Dame High School and Morton High School libraries. |
Updated 10/15/15