Happenings Archives

October 18, 2024October 19, 2024

Thanks to all for your support in Seattle!

Rancho Obi-Wan would like to thank the following folks for their help with and support of our recent fundraiser at The Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle. It takes so many people to produce an event like this, we hope we haven’t forgotten anyone! The event raised $49,369.06, and when doubled by a generous match from Lisa Stevens & Vic Wertz, the total became $98,738.12! Funds raised are used for insurance, utilities, wildland fire defensible space, professional services, maintenance on the buildings, and protection and preservation of the collection.

This allows us to continue to use the collection to inspire–thank you for joining us in our mission! Your generosity makes it all possible.

Thank you to all our Attendees and Absentee Bidders–we love visiting with you!

Rancho Obi-Wan Board Members
Steve Sansweet
Anne Neumann
Gus Lopez
Duncan Jenkins
Rich Smolen
Michael Wistock
Dan Norgan
Pete Vilmur
Lisa Stevens

The Saga Museum Leadership Team
Steve Sansweet
Anne Neumann
Gus Lopez
Duncan Jenkins
Rich Smolen
Michael Wistock
Lisa Stevens
Vic Wertz

Host
Mark Daniel

Key Art Design
Curt Hanks

emroosh Productions
Mark Rusciano

Sponsors
Creative Fundraising Advisors
Hallmark
Joel & Debra Luker
Propstore
Skywalker Vineyards
Tony Clemens & Silvia Clemens

Patrons
Alex Cohn
Chad Giacomozzi
Daniel Uthman
Gail DeGiulio
George Lai
Kendall Gelner
Chickaphant
Nilmini Klur
Peter Arcuri
Warzers
William Magalio
Anonymous Donors

Guitar Exhibit
Gus Lopez
Steve Sansweet
Lisa Stevens
Vic Wertz
Jim Gibbons

Auction Donors
Amy Sjoberg
Brad Cook for ColinCantwell.com
Britt Lightning
Charmaine Cuddie
Curt Hanks
Duncan Jenkins
Funko
Gus Lopez
Hallmark
Jerry VanderStelt
JM Cellars
Jim Gibbons
Jody Plank
Lisa Stevens
Mark Raats
Michael O’Shields
Po Zu
Propstore
Russell Walks
San Francisco Giants Baseball Club
Spencer Brinkerhoff III
Stan Stice for Ralph McQuarrie Archives
Steve Sansweet
Surrell Restaurant
The Herbfarm Restaurant
Toby Todd
Tom Johnson for Skywalker Vineyards
Tom Spina Designs
Vic Wertz
Walt Crowley

Volunteers
Beto Lopez
Joseph Pedersen
Sarah Silverman-Pucci
Kevin Lam
Luke Yates
Paul Hoeffer
David Pucci
Mercedes Santaella-Lam
Tony Damata
Amy Sjoberg
Jim Gibbons
Mark Rusciano
Susan Rogers
Thomas Stewart
Michal Stewart
Curt Hanks
Anne Jenkins
Red Dodge Wistock
Lorena Gies
Devonna Dickey
Kim Buckley
Laura Roberts
Daniel Roberts
Jenny Morales
Tony Clemens
Silvia Clemens
Dwayne Smith
David Buckley
Yannik Morales
Aileen Sweeney

Friday Collection Tour Hosts
Gus Lopez & Pam Green
Lisa Stevens & Vic Wertz

Wine Tasting & Charcuterie
Earl Bergquist
Anne Neumann
Lorena Gies
Michal Stewart
Duncan Jenkins
Anne Jenkins
Jim Gibbons

Skywalker Ranch wine donated by Scott Magerfleisch
in loving memory of Melissa Magerfleisch

Drivers
Tom Stewart
Jim Gibbons

Publicity
Consetta Parker
David Perry & Assoc.

Creative Fundraising Advisors
Joanne Curry
Nico Gervasoni
Paul Johnson

Cinema Relics
The Saga Museum video
Dan Lanigan
Jason Henry
Jason Baffa
Carson Oyler

MoPOP Staff
Elisabeth Fleming-Prot
Ed Maloney
Mae Salizon
Stephanie Lansbery
Jacob McMurray
Briana Van Over

The Big Drive
Anne Neumann
Lorena Gies
Susan Rogers
Anastasia Lipske
Dwayne Smith

Emotional Support Humans
Tracy Kelly
Victoria Webb
Joanie Neumann
Pam Green
Bob Canning
Anne Jenkins
Red Wistock
Temple Smolen
Garet Jones

Photo Booth
Coachella Party

The Ballad of Rancho Obi-Wan
a parody of “The Ballad of Gilligan’s Isle”
in loving memory of Stewart Levy & Jerry Treiber

September 21, 2024September 21, 2024

Take a look at a few of the galactic Star Wars auction items for the Rancho Obi-Wan fundraiser Oct. 5th!

Take a look at a few of the galactic Star Wars auction items for the Rancho Obi-Wan fundraiser Oct. 5th in Seattle at The Museum of Pop Culture. Can’t attend the fundraiser, but want to be able to bid and support Rancho Obi-Wan? We’re excited to now offer absentee bidder privileges for event auction items with ANY Patronage donation!

Live and silent auction items added daily including a custom Star Wars guitar, art pieces, rare memorabilia, vintage collectibles, props and prototypes!

All funds/donations go toward maintaining and preserving the thousands of items in the museum and history of Star Wars. (Insurance, building upkeep etc)- We want to make sure that future generations can enjoy the collection and be inspired as so many have since 1977. Thank you for your support!

September 12, 2024September 12, 2024

Fundraiser at Seattle’s MoPOP Set to Be a Galactic Event!

Rancho Obi-Wan’s Saturday October 5 Fundraiser at Seattle’s MoPOP
Set to Be a Galactic Event for Star Wars Fans

World’s Largest Collection of Star Wars Memorabilia
Set to Make Major Announcement at Event
Featuring Auction of Rare and Sought After Items

Acclaimed Comic, Influencer and “Super Fan” Mark Daniel to Emcee

12 September 2024 – San Francisco / Seattle: “A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away…..” Actually, not far away, and coming up on Saturday, October 5, fans of the Star Wars universe are gearing up for an out-of-this-world experience as the acclaimed nonprofit Rancho Obi-Wan home to the world’s largest Star Wars memorabilia collection as confirmed by Guinness World Records, hosts a special fundraiser at Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). This rare one-night-only event includes food, drink, an exhibit of “Star Wars Inspired Guitars” and of course, opportunities to buy and bid at auction on rare Star Wars collectibles. Special guest emcee for the evening is noted Star Wars Super Fan and online influencer Mark Daniel. At the end of the evening, Rancho Obi-Wan will be making a major announcement about the future of the collection.

“The Force is strong with this event, and strong with our legions of fans from the light and dark side who support our mission,” said Steve Sansweet, who founded the nonprofit Rancho Obi-Wan in 2011. “Our mission is to inspire people by showcasing the collection and promoting a warm, joyous, inclusive environment for a fun, authentic fan experience, Rancho Obi-Wan presents collectibles and works of art, including fan-made pieces, to inspire others to be imaginative, creative, seek information and learn new crafts.”

The highly anticipated October 5 event at MoPOP marks a significant milestone—the first fundraiser held outside the museum’s Petaluma, California base. Located just north of San Francisco, thousands of people have experienced the collection, which now comprises a fan base from 59 countries.

“Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture is the perfect spot for this event,” Sansweet continued. “Their collection which includes significant sci-fi elements is sure to delight our attendees. Plus, where else can you take a monorail to a party.”

The evening promises to be a true celebration of Star Wars fandom, with a variety of immersive experiences planned. Attendees will be treated to passed appetizers, a grazing bar, and a dessert bar, all while mingling among iconic Star Wars props and costumes in MoPOP’s extensive galleries. The event will also feature a special exhibit from Rancho Obi-Wan, showcasing Star Wars-themed guitars that are sure to strike a chord with fans of all ages.

“Rancho Obi-Wan is more than just a collection: It’s a celebration of the creativity and passion that Star Wars has inspired in millions of fans worldwide,” said special guest emcee Daniel, the energetic and beloved host of Star Wars Celebration events. “I’m thrilled to be part of an event that brings this incredible community together.”

The evening’s program includes both a live and silent auction, offering attendees the chance to take home rare and unique Star Wars collectibles. Sansweet emphasized the importance of this event in preserving the museum’s vast collection.

“Rancho Obi-Wan is a testament to the enduring legacy of Star Wars, and this fundraiser is crucial in helping us continue to share that legacy with fans for generations to come,” he said. “This collection is, truly, a global treasure of galactic proportions.

Among the items being auctioned off are special “Rancho Obi-Wan Star Wars Experiences” such as: exclusive tours of private Star Wars collections, including those belonging to Rancho Obi-Wan’s Vice President, Gus Lopez, as well as longtime Star Wars collectors
Rancho Obi-Wan board member, Lisa Stevens, and Vic Wertz. These tours, paired with a Skywalker Vineyards wine tasting, offer a rare glimpse into the personal treasures of some of the most dedicated Star Wars collectors in the world. Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) known for its dedication to pop culture, provides the perfect venue for this galactic gathering.

“Our museum is dedicated to providing immersive experiences that inspire and connect diverse communities, which made hosting Rancho Obi-Wan’s fundraiser at MoPOP a natural fit,” said Jacob McMurray, MoPOP Chief Collections + Exhibitions Officer. “We’re honored to partner with Rancho Obi-Wan on an evening showcasing the beloved Star Wars franchise and to raise money for an important cause.”

As guests explore the galleries and participate in the evening’s events, they will also have the opportunity to take photos with costumed Star Wars characters, ensuring that every moment of the evening is filled with memories to last a lifetime.

Tickets for the fundraiser are priced at $350, with a special rate of $300 for Rancho Obi-Wan members. For those looking to enhance their experience, add-on tickets for the exclusive collection tours are available for $550. All proceeds from the event will support Rancho Obi-Wan’s mission to preserve and share the world’s most comprehensive Star Wars collection. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit https://ranchoobiwan.org/fundraiser2024/

media contact:
DP&A, Inc: David Perry / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

July 17, 2024July 17, 2024

Tickets On Sale NOW for Rancho Obi-Wan Fundraiser in Seattle!

Join us for an evening
to benefit Rancho Obi-Wan!

Fundraiser for Rancho Obi-Wan
Saturday, October 5, 2024
6pm–10pm
Museum of Pop Culture
325 5th Ave N
Seattle, WA 98109

Purchase Tickets, Merchandise,
Sponsorships, and Patronage NOW!

We invite you to join us for our first Fundraiser since 2018–and our first ever fundraiser outside Rancho Obi-Wan in Petaluma, CA! Your support enables us to preserve this very special collection for you and generations to come.

March 12, 2024March 13, 2024

Sweet Pick’n Vintage Market Spring Fundraiser!

Come see us at Sweet Pick’n Vintage Market in Petaluma on Sunday, March 24th, for our first fundraiser of the Spring!

We will be selling duplicate Star Wars toys from our collection and much more.

Sweet Pick’n is a unique marketplace for vintage collectors of all kinds and will feature over 50 vendors.

We are excited to be part of this event in our local community and invite you to join us.

Sweet Pick’n Vintage Market

Veterans Memorial Hall

1094 Petaluma Blvd South

Petaluma, California

9am-4pm

January 20, 2023November 30, 2023

Collection of Star Wars Prints from Rancho Obi-Wan are featured at Petaluma Arts Center

Petaluma Arts Center exhibit with Steve Sansweet and the curator Lisa Demetrios.

A collection of Star Wars prints from Rancho Obi-Wan are featured at the Petaluma Arts Center. The Petaluma Collects exhibition displays what members of our local community collect. Our founder, Steve Sansweet, was invited to be part of this exhibit. We are excited to share Steve’s story of collecting with everyone!

A collection of Star Wars prints from Rancho Obi-Wan, and entire Petaluma Collects exhibition, can be viewed at the Petaluma Arts Center now through March 11, 2023.

October 1, 2022July 24, 2023

A Visit to Creature Features!

I got an invitation to visit Creature Features and share Rancho Obi-Wan with the denizens of one of the longest-running media enterprises in the San Francisco Bay area—and nationwide. Originally shown on local TV stations from the 1960s to the 1980s, Creature Features is now online, showing an often-cheesy cult Sci-Fi or Horror movie every week.

The real treat of shows like this (I grew up in Philadelphia watching Shock Theater with host Zacherle covered in shoe-polish makeup) is watching the hosts interrupt the movies with remarks dripping with sarcasm or puns. The latest version of Creature Features is hosted by former heavy metal musician Vincent Van Dahl from the “haunted and historic Poulter Manor in Bodega Bay, California.”

Vincent is joined every week by his very peculiar housemate Tangella and his loyal valet Mr. Livingston. But we got an unusual request. Could Tangella visit Rancho in advance to record a quick walk-through, which would be shown during the course of the movie? Of course we said yes!

You can watch her four-minute escapade here!

When I arrived at “Poulter Manor” I was escorted into a large and creepy room, and was greeted by Vincent, Tangella and Mr. Livingston. Everyone was very friendly and the movie screening on that show was a 1979 Italian psychotic nightmare called Star Odyssey, a dreadful attempt to recreate some of the thrills of Star Wars. About all I can remember are a pair of lovey-dovey male and female duck-faced metallic robots. Oh. There were also cardboard laser swords covered with fluorescent paint.

In between the movie bits, which Vincent had great delight making fun of, we chatted about Rancho and other world-shaking issues. You can watch the movie and our chat!

After we recorded the show, I had more of a look around “Poulter Manor” (see the assorted oddities, portrait gallery and pipe organ photos below!) Then we all settled in for a tasty Italian dinner and great conversation.

Now I’ve got to see if I can convince a friendly R2-D2 Builder to create a duck-faced cyborg!

Steve Sansweet is owner and Executive Chairman of Rancho Obi-Wan, former Head of Fan Relations at Lucasfilm and contributor to StarWars.com, and previously the longest-running Bureau Chief of the Wall Street Journal in Los Angeles.

Explore more Happenings with Rancho Obi-Wan

September 16, 2022November 12, 2022

Representing Rancho Obi-Wan at Star Wars Day with the San Francisco Giants!

I recently had the tremendous honor of representing Rancho Obi-Wan on Star Wars Day, by throwing out the ceremonial First Pitch before the baseball game between the San Francisco Giants and Philadelphia Phillies, on the field at 24 Willie Mays Plaza in San Francisco on 9/4/22. Made it to The Show! Got a Major League cup of coffee. I was THRILLED to be there (and threw a strike)!

It was very fun and inspiring to bring the Rancho Obi-Wan experience to the ballpark on a glorious, sunny day by the bay at McCovey Cove. ROW has participated in several Star Wars Day events in recent years. It’s been successful and rewarding because of the high spirit of collaboration amongst our staff and volunteers, and SF Giants promotions group. This year was fabulous in every way.

Pre-game festivities for special event ticket holders included food, drink, an Orange (or black) Funko C-3PO and other schwag, and a rare outing with Jabba The Hutt! We schlepped Jabba from his palace on the ranch, and set him up with grand style in Triples Alley between the outfield and the water! Raffles of some cool items raised money to support Rancho Obi-Wan’s mission, including original art created on site by Randy Martinez.

I left Triples Alley early, along with my son Ian, ROW photographer Victoria Webb, and the “Play Ball Kids” – Kylie and Kaden with dads Brian and Dwayne, to be escorted to the field. The journey included several ‘hurry up and wait” stops along the way, in hallways, green rooms, “The Tunnel” and on the field. We were joined by a colorful galaxy full of costumed troopers, cosplayers and super fans. The force was strong, but my stomach was a little nervous while waiting around in anticipation. But I was confident and well prepared, because I threw bullpen sessions on Friday and Saturday with Scott Ruether and Marc Morita. Thanks for catching me, bros!

On the field, there was a flurry of activity and stimulus. A 12-year-old girl sang a stunningly great version of the national anthem, and then I walked confidently to the pitcher’s mound, escorted by Rey, Obi-Wan and Anakin. After being introduced by long time Giants PA announcer Renel Brooks-Moon, all the fanfare and energy of the crowd faded into the background. When it finally was time to throw the pitch, my focus was 100% on the catcher (coach Taira Uematsu). I hit the glove. A magnificent 4-seam fastball, topping out at 45-50 mph, then sinking in for a strike at the knees!

My work was done, along with my 15 minutes of fame, and it was time to relax and enjoy the game in a suite shared by Rancho Obi-Wan and Skywalker Vineyards. Positive energy and awesome company everywhere. To top off an already wonderful, exciting day, the Giants won the game and the weekend series sweep, with a walk-off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning. And the crowd went wild!

All this awesomeness happens because of the incredible synergy we have in the Rancho Obi-Wan community of friends and family. We have the kindest, most talented and dedicated crew, and a very supportive global membership to make all this fun possible. On behalf of Anne and Steve, I want thank you all for your friendship, inspiration and support.

MTFBWY and Play Ball!

Stewart Levy is Manager of Randomness at Rancho Obi-Wan with many roles: debris-man, writer, editor, shipping and receiving, bartender, greeter, advisor, mover, and more.

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August 17, 2022August 17, 2022

Inside The Saga Museums Vol. 1 Rancho Obi-Wan Fundraiser August 20th and 21st!

Join us for The Saga Museum Vol. 1: A Rancho Obi-Wan Fundraiser event this Saturday, August 20th at 4PM/PT. We will be streaming live on the Rancho Obi-Wan Facebook page and featuring a deep dive into portions of the Star Wars collections of Steve Sansweet, Gus Lopez, Duncan Jenkins and Vic Wertz and Lisa Stevens.
*If you miss out on Saturday, we will be streaming Vol. 1 again on Sunday, August 21st at 11AM/PT!

We will be sharing up close and personal looks at each of these incredible Star Wars collections. You’ll see some of the most renowned one-of-a-kind props, rare action figures, special LEGO pieces, and hear details and stories from each of the collectors.

Here are a few sneak peek photos of what’s to come in The Saga Museum Vol. 1!