Can't Stop The Serenity Vancouver

CSTS Vancouver 2012!

2012-01-06T02:23:00.000-08:00

Mark Saturday, June 9th on your calendars for CSTS Vancouver 2012, to be held at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. Due to scheduling conflicts, our event will be held two weeks earlier than usual this year, so planning has already started. If you would like to be involved as a donor, sponsor, volunteer or helping to organise, you can e-mail us at cstsvancouver [at] gmail [dot] com, or leave a comment here or on Twitter or our Facebook page.

Please check out the video at the right to hear some of the actions that we have helped make possible through our contributions to Equality Now. EN is turning 20 this year, so let's do our part in making this their most successful year ever!

In addition to supporting Equality Now, part of our proceeds continue to go to BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre Foundation and this year we will also be contributing to the Avalon Women's Centres in Vancouver.

CSTS 2012 PLANNING HAS BEGUN!

2011-10-20T20:34:00.000-07:00

This year's Global Team has begun planning early - and so have we. (Look for an announcement on the date coming in the next few weeks!)

The contest for the artwork to represent CSTS 2012 is now open for voting. Voting is open to anyone who is a member of the CSTS forums - you don't have to be an organiser or even on the committee; you just have to register. When you're voting, please keep in mind what the artwork will look like on a t-shirt (would you want to wear it?); whether you think it will catch the eye of people who may not know about CSTS and make them curious enough to explore further; and how well local event information will fit on the poster without losing the essence of the poster.Contest ends at 11:59 pm PST, on November 1st. You can only vote once so think about it and then vote before the deadline and we will have lovely shiny t-shirts to order early next year!

In the meantime, while you're waiting for further news, check out more webseries: the very funny Husbands, by Whedon writer Jane Espenson ("Shindig") and Brad Bell/Cheeks about two men who wake up married in Las Vegas after celebrating the Marriage Equality bill. (Obviously set slightly in the future.) It is a very romantic - and funny - love story in 11 episodes, at least for season one. It's not graphic and there is no nudity but there are some displays of affection, of course, as there would be in any true romance.

For action fantasy, try Dragon Age: Redemption, written and starring Felicia Day (Buffy, Dr. Horrible,The Guild). It has just launched (second episode was posted this week). If you are a gamer, the game is out now, also 'starring' Felicia Day.

MIND MY BRAINS, DARLING!

2011-10-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

The other local webseries we screened at this year's CSTS Vancouver was Mind My Brains, Darling! The season finale episode is now online at http://mindmybrains.com. Check it out now and spread the word.

Equality Now Contest

2011-09-21T14:45:00.000-07:00

What does gender equality mean to you? In an ideal world, what would you expect to see? Put together a PSA for EN's 20th Anniversary and it could be posted on their website.

STANDARD ACTION WEBSERIES

2011-09-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

If you were at CSTS Vanvouver this year, you saw some episodes of this local webseries. If you weren't, you can catch up here. Episode 12 is up - the first half of the season finale. If you would like to see more episodes, you can support the team - which includes our own Assistant Organiser, Vanessa/cymerin as Associate Producer and several other titles as well! Go here to see the great gifts they are giving to donors.

Joss Whedon Panel at Comic-Con 2011

2011-08-03T19:45:00.000-07:00

For those of you who weren't able to see Joss live at Comic-Con, here is the video of his panel. It's Joss at his best: funny, serious, and answering questions - most of which were thoughtful. When he is asked about strong women characters, I'm afraid my friends and I (sitting in the front row) laughed very loudly and it was one of my friends who yelled out "YouTube", which Joss then carried on with.

Less than 5 Hours to Bid!

2011-07-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

Less than five hours left to bid on the Once More With Feeling songbook, signed by Sarah Michelle Gellar, on eBay. Remember, all the money is going to our two beneficiaries, Equality Now and BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre Foundation. Only a few more dollars and we can reach our goal of $5,000 raised this year!

Message from Jewel Staite

2011-07-08T17:01:00.000-07:00

Besides saying hello to everyone at CSTS Vancouver (via e-mail) and wishing us well, Jewel asked if we would pass on information about a friend's fundraiser. We did at the event, but we're adding it here for those people who are interested.

In her own words:

"My friend Ryan Purcell, who was one of the camera operators on Stargate: Atlantis, is throwing a benefit on September 24th at the Sutton Place Hotel in Vancouver to raise money for research to help his son, who's sick with a very rare degenerative disorder called Hunter Syndrome. If you could, it would be so fabulous to give the benefit a shout-out by mentioning its website, http://www.onceuponacure.com. Several actors from Stargate, Smallville, Sanctuary and Supernatural are going to be there, as well as a few local weel-known actors from Vancouver. There's going to be an auction held there as well with various prizes like lunch with me and Paul McGillion, lunch and a set visit with Amanda Tapping, etc. It's a great cause, and I'd love to help Ryan and his wife Deb sell more tickets!"

Since Jewel is always helping us out with CSTS Vancouver, it would be great if people could help out with her friend's fundraiser. The link is on the side bar as well.

Don't forget to check out Jewel's food blog. Just don't do it if you're already hungry! There's a link to Happy Opu (under Jewel Staite's Food Blog) on the right.

SPECIAL eBAY AUCTION ITEM!

2011-07-05T20:16:00.000-07:00

As if we didn't have enough shiny items at our silent auction last weekend, we received a donation that we thought was worthy of putting on eBay. Today's the day. For one week only, you can bid on Buffy the Vampire Slayer's "Once More With Feeling" songbook, signed by Buffy herself, Sarah Michelle Gellar! One of our CSTS volunteers has donated this unused book which he had signed when Sarah was in Vancouver filming the movie Possession, which was released in 2009.

The proceeds of this sale will go in to our CSTS Vancouver totals for Equality Now and BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre Foundation, so click the link above and bid high and bid often!

CSTS LA with Joss Whedon

2011-06-28T21:19:00.000-07:00

For those of you who didn't get to see Joss Whedon et al live on Saturday night, I've posted the video on the right. The Q & A at the end is very good. Don't miss the mini-speech by The One True b!X, founder of Can't Stop The Serenity, as he gives some examples of what Equality Now does with our donations.

CSTS events are fun and entertaining and we get to see old friends and meet new ones, but we cannot forget the reason we do this is to help stop or prevent some of the atrocities happening to women and girls around the world. With your donations, Equality Now is making a difference. So from those of us who spend hours, days and months working to make each of these world-wide events a success, thank you for coming out each year, choosing to spend your time and your money for such a worthwhile cause. Of course it doesn't hurt that we get to see our Big Damn Movie and have some fun in the process. Nobody said raising money had to be depressing!

If at any time you feel you have a little extra you want to donate, feel free to use the 'donate' button on the top right of the blog. All monies go towards EN and BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre Foundation.

We will have an exciting announcement shortly about one more item that has been donated. Stay tuned!

THANK YOU!!

2011-06-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

CSTS Vancouver 2011 was a success, thanks to a large number of people who volunteered, donated, bid and came to the event. More will be forthcoming when I have further access to a computer!

It's Almost Here!

2011-06-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

We've almost made it to the big day. Online ticket sales are now closed but there will be tickets available at the door tomorrow, so come down and check us out.

Thank you to all who have bought tickets and are coming to support Equality Now and BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre Foundation. If you can't attend but would still like to support these two worthwhile charities, the 'donate' button is still up on the right hand side of the page.

Stay tuned for an announcement at the event, which will be posted here, regarding one special item to go in an online auction!

See you tomorrow! Don't forget: all auction items and other donation opportunities are cash only.

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #10

2011-06-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

Here's the final quote - and it's an easy one to end with. I hope everyone has enjoyed playing along. Remember to e-mail the answers (person speaking and the episode) to all 10 questions by midnight (Pacific time) tonight to: cstsvancouver@gmail.com. The winner will be drawn/announced Saturday morning during introductory remarks.

"I don't think of myself as a lion."

Good luck. And just because it's my favourite quote - here's one from the movie:
"Love. You can learn all the math in the 'verse... but you take a boat in the air that you don't love... she'll shake you off just as sure as the turn of the worlds. Love keeps her in the air when she ought to fall down... tells you she's hurting before she keens. Makes her a home. "

Schedule, Notes and a Couple of Special Items!

2011-06-22T21:27:00.000-07:00

One of our special auction items is currently somewhere in the Canadian postal system. I had asked Jody Houser, who does a couple of online comics, Brick Girl and Cupcake Pow! if we could have a signed print of one of the panels of Cupcake Pow! that would have a lot of significance to Firefly fans - of which Jody herself is one. She agreed, even though she had never done it before, and in the process, the CA Browncoats, who are hosting Joss et al in LA on Saturday night, also requested one. However, Jody assured me that the print we are getting is No 1 of 2. :) There will be a colour copy of it at the auction and we will mail the original to the winning bidder when it finally arrives. Check out Cupcake Pow! and see if you can guess which panel it is.

In addition to the draw for the winner of the quotation contest in the introductory remarks Saturday morning, we also have an e-mail message from Jewel Staite to read. We are so proud to have her as a supporter of our event.

    CSTS VANCOUVER 2011 - SCHEDULE
    Saturday, June 25th
10:30    Doors open / special video presentation
11:00   Welcome/Online Contest winner drawn
            Dr. Horrible’s Sing-along Blog sing-along
11:50   Evil Laugh Contest
12:10   Mind My Brains, Darling episodes 1 & 2
12:30   Break
12:45   Costume Contest Parade & Prizes
1:10     Standard Action webseries episodes
2:00     Firefly Trivia Bingo
3:00     Silent Auction ends; doors close
            Introductions to movie
3:30     SERENITY
5:30     Door prizes drawn
            Auction winners announced
            Closing remarks

IMPORTANT NOTES

If you are picking up your PayPal tickets at “Will Call”, please bring a copy of your PayPal printout/receipt.

There are a limited number of grab bags available for a minimum $5 donation. Bingo cards are $1.00 each and will be two lines in any direction. Get your cards early as last year they were all snapped up within the first hour! There are also door prizes which will be drawn after the movie.

Beverages in containers with lids are allowed in the Auditorium, all other food and drink must be consumed outside the room. This year we are offering some food by donation, wraps courtesy of John at La Fontana Caffe & friends and Firefly-inspired goodies courtesy of C&C Cakery available in the Lounge on the other side of the Lower Lobby. You are also welcome to bring your own food or to go to one of the many food places near Cornwall & Cypress.

For anyone wishing to stay after the day’s main festivities are over, we have the Lounge booked until 9 pm and you’re welcome to bring in food, get together and order in or just hang out with your fellow Browncoats and wind down for the day.

Please note that pay parking is in effect at the Space Centre/Museum lot at a rate of $2 per hour; $10 flat rate until 6 pm and $5 flat rate from 6 pm until 6 am. EasyPark does patrol rather vigorously, especially just after 6 pm, so please make sure you have paid and have the ticket visible! There is little to no on-street parking in the area except for residents.

FINAL REMINDER THAT ALL MONETARY TRANSACTIONS ARE CASH ONLY, SO BRING PLENTY OF IT!

A couple more auction items to whet your appetite for Saturday - auotgraphed pictures of Mark Sheppard (Badger) and Jewel Staite (Kaylee), donated by RiverSue and Doug.

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #9

2011-06-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

Only two more quotes to go! Today's quote:

"Look at the fluffy one."

I'm sure you all got that!

Just a reminder for those people who've asked - tickets will be available at La Fontana until Noon on Friday and online with PayPal until 6 pm. After that, any remaining tickets will be available at the door - cash only on Saturday for the auction items as well. And you'll want to make sure you have plenty because you haven't seen even half of the shiny items we have for auction! We also have some great door prizes and contest prizes - and $5 grab bags. Plus have you seen the pictures C&C Cakery has been posting on Twitter of some of the goodies they're making for Saturday - also by donation? It will be worth coming just to taste one or two of those!

Elves & Druids & Zombies, Oh, My!

2011-06-20T23:58:00.000-07:00

You know you're going to see Serenity this Saturday (if you have your ticket!) since the event is called Can't Stop The Serenity. Maybe you know that you can sing-along to Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, Joss Whedon's Internet sensation. But are you prepared for zombies and other magical creatures scampering - or slouching - across the screen in front of you? Well, we're giving you fair warning. You can expect all manner of fantastic - and fantastical - creatures to entertain you.

We'll be showing the world screening premiere of Episodes 1 and 2 of the new webseries, Mind My Brains, Darling, locally made by our own Browncoats, Higlet Films. Episode 1 is live as of Monday but you'll be the first to see Episode 2! Watch teasers and learn more about the series at their website.

Standard Action, another locally made series, is full of adventure and humour, following a rag-tag band of magical creatures as they quest and quarrel their way across the land. CSTS Vancouver is pleased to present these original webseries to a new audience.

Members of both series will be appearing at a panel at Geek Girl Con in Seattle in October, so you can catch them there talking about the ins and outs of producing your own webseries. In the meantime, enjoy them on the big screen at CSTS Vancouver on Saturday and meet members of both casts.

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #8

2011-06-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

Ready for Quote #8?

"You got the right same as anyone to live and try to kill people."

Remember: speaker and episode for all 10 quotes to be e-mailed to cstsvancouver@gmail.comby midnight June 23rd. Winner will be announced at CSTS Vancouver on Saturday morning.

One Week Today - CSTS Vancouver 2011. Do You Have Your Ticket Yet?

2011-06-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

Are you missing the high of the Canucks run to the Stanley Cup? Feeling a bit let down due to the aftermath? Why not come to CSTS Vancouver on Saturday, June 25th? It's a fun day and we raise money for two good charities: Equality Now and BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre Foundation. Even if you aren't a Browncoat, you're sure to find something you like at our silent auction. How about this - a Star Trek clock radio, donated by William.

Or how about a souvenir from "V"? Maybe the parking name plate for one or both of our BDHs who also were in that series. Yes, the genuine article, donated by a local Browncoat & sci-fi geek who bought them -and some other shiny items - at the prop sale.

If you prefer the Doctor, we have something for you, too. In addition to the knitted Red Dalek seen in a previous post, we have an Adipose, crocheted by Myntkat.

You can read more about the Adipose - and other Dr. Who creatures - in The Time Traveller's Almanac, donated by Colleen.

Stay tuned for more great Firefly/Serenity items, including autographed ones! Don't forget that the Silent Auction, grab bags, bingo cards or anything else to be purchase are cash only.

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #7

2011-06-17T22:38:00.000-07:00

How are you doing so far? Finding the answers easy? Well, this one is - short and sweet today.

"Mercy is the mark of a great man."

You've got it already, don't you? I thought so. Well, it still counts. :)

Crafty & Creative Geeks Abound!

2011-06-16T23:25:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind item that shows off your favourite fandom? Then be sure to come to CSTS Vancouver 2011 and bid on some of the wonderful auction items we have. The cross-stitch Big Damn Heroes made by Amber from Cthulhu Crochet and Cousins were such a hit last year that she has come up with new ones this year. There are two framed pieces, plus some smaller ones - and a Jayne bookmark that will go with the Jayne's hat from Serena's Everything Jayne's Hat Emporium. In addition, Lisa-Marie has incorporated Amber's BDH designs onto a beautiful bag.

If you're a fan of Blue Sun products, take a look at this beautiful pillow made by Katherine Wrigley.

Perhaps you're a Dr. Who fan. Katherine has also made a Red Dalek.

Keep checking for more auction items and don't forget to buy your tickets so you can bid on them. Only eight days left!

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote # 6

2011-06-14T02:03:00.000-07:00

We're halfway through our quote contest, how are you doing so far? Last quote will be June 22nd, then e-mail CSTSVancouver [at] gmail [dot] com with your answers by midnight June 23rd.

Today's quote: The important thing is the spices.

Remember to give the speaker and the episode when you send your entry in on June 23rd! Good luck!

Costume Contest Details

2011-06-13T01:47:00.000-07:00

Which Firefly/Serenity character do you see yourself as? Mal? Inara? River? Kaylee? Shepherd Book? Maybe you like to wear Hawaiian shirts and play with dinosaurs. Maybe you like to wear a 'cunning' hat and carry a gun named Vera. Perhaps a very proper doctor is more your style. Or do you look good in a 'slinky' dress? Whatever your preference, why not attend this year's CSTS Vancouver in costume? There are two categories: any character from Firefly or Serenity (is a lovebot your style?) or a character from any of Whedon's other shows: Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog or Dollhouse.

If you want to be judged in the costume contest, we ask that you arrive at the Space Centre between 10:15 and 10:30 and proceed to the Ray Whittick Lounge. (There will be signs.) Once there you will pose for the judges and our official photographer. All contestants will then do a parade onto the stage just after 1 pm where the prizes will be awarded.

Let your imagination run wild - but not too wild. Remember this is a family event, so no Echo as a dominatrix, please. :)

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #5

2011-06-11T00:45:00.000-07:00

Do you have the speaker and episode for Quotes 1 - 4? Are you ready for #5?

"When this is over, I'll be able to help you; I'll be able to make your nightmares go away."

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #4

2011-06-08T22:33:00.000-07:00

Time for Quote #4. Don't forget to keep track of your answers in order and then e-mail all 10 of them to CSTSVancouver@gmail.com by midnight, June 23rd.

"I like to meet new people; they've all got stories."

Can't Stop The Serenity 2010 Vancouver

2011-06-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a sample of last year's CSTS Vancouver event, thanks to WorldofHiglet and her husband.

Guild Fans Alert!

2011-06-07T02:19:00.000-07:00

Are you a fan of Felicia Day's webseries, The Guild? Then do we have auction items for you.

First up: Season 3 DVDs, signed by all of the cast and donated by AlanD. We also have all their signatures on The Guild #1 comic, as well as a cast picture. Felicia and Amy (Tink) both signed the Season 4 DVDs, and Amy and the artist both autographed a large poster of the cover of the The Guild's Tink comic. In addition, we have The Guild TPB. Any one of these could be yours if you bring enough cashy money to bid high.

Stay tuned for more exciting silent auction items.

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #3

2011-06-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

Who do you think said this - and in what episode?

"There's times I don't think you take me seriously."

Online Trivia Quiz - Quote #2

2011-06-03T00:59:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for the second quote?

"Looked bigger when I couldn't see him."

Remember: who said it and what episode of Firefly was it in. When you have all 10 answers, e-mail them to CSTS Vancouver and we'll draw a winner on June 25th during the introductions.

Good luck!

A Delicious New Donor

2011-06-02T00:54:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce that we have a new donor on board! C&C Cakery in Burnaby will be making special Firefly-inspired baked goods that can be purchased at CSTS Vancouver for a donation. They will also be donating a gift certificate to the auction. I don't know about you, but just looking at those pictures of Kaylee's Cupcakes makes my mouth water. Can you imagine the looks on your fellow Browncoats' faces when you treat them to such a delectable confection with the gift certificate you purchased at our silent auction? Of course, you could keep them all for yourself, but Browncoats are so good at sharing. Aren't they?

The Kaylee Cupcake - ain't it purty?

Online Trivia Quiz

2011-05-30T12:39:00.000-07:00

So who here is a Firefly fan? Have you watched so many times you know all the words - or think you do? Then here's a contest for you!

Every couple of days until just before CSTS, I will post a quotation on the blog. Your mission, should you decide to accept it, is to name the person speaking and the episode. There will be 10 questions, so not all the episodes will be represented. After the last question, e-mail your 10 answers to CSTSVancouver@gmail.com by midnight (Pacific time) June 23rd. If there are multiple correct answers, one name will be drawn at CSTS and a shiny prize will be awarded. You do not have to be present to win, but you will get your prize more quickly.

Let's start out with an easy one, shall we?

"When you can't run, you crawl. And when you can't crawl, when you can't do that..."

Remember, name the character and episode and only send the answers at the end of the contest.

Why "Can't Stop The Serenity"?

2011-05-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

Four years ago, a young woman named Du'a Khalil Aswad was stoned to death in northern Iraq for the sin of falling in love with a young man of a different religion. There are conflicting stories about why she was actually stoned - whether she had converted for her boyfriend, was thinking of converting or just seen talking to him in the street. Whatever the reason, while she was being stoned, many people of her village stood around and watched, some taking pictures and videos on their cell phones and posting them on the Internet.

At the time the story made headlines around the world, Joss Whedon wrote a post on Whedonesque about it that had little of his trademark humour in it, just heartfelt questions about why this was happening and some suggestions to counter it. Out of that came a website and a book, Nothing But Red. Can't Stop The Serenity was gearing up for its second year of global fundraising events and Joss's post about Du'a Khalil Aswad served to strengthen our efforts to raise money for Equality Now, Joss's favourite charity and one that works to end violence and discrimination against women and girls throughout the world.

CSTS is now celebrating its sixth anniversary and the fact that the worldwide events have raised over half a million dollars for Equality Now and various local charities. This year one of the moderators of Whedonesque, Damon Schmidt aka zeitgeist, wrote an eloquent reminder that what happened to Du'a Khalil was not, unfortunately, an isolated incident.

So each year we get together with other Joss Whedon fans to watch his movie, Serenity; to sing along to Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog; to dress up as our favourite Whedon characters; to win prizes and buy swag; and to have fun. And have fun we do! But let's not forget the reason we do this: to help those women and girls who are less fortunate than we are and who may not be able to help themselves.

In Vancouver, 80% of the net proceeds from our CSTS event go to Equality Now, with the other 20% to BC Women's Hospital & Health Care Foundation, which helps to give children a good start in life and to do the best to keep women of this province healthy. So far, in five years, we have raised over $15,000 and we hope this year is the best one yet.

Remember when you buy your ticket, or grab bag, or bingo card, or bid on one of the exciting items in our Silent Auction, that you are helping to improve the lives of women around the world as well as those right here at home.

So do you have your costume ready? Have you rewatched Firefly so you can answer all the trivia questions? Have you stashed away a bit of extra cash to bid on that special item that you just must have? Have you practised your evil laugh? Is your singing voice ready? Then make sure you buy your tickets early and bring your friends because raising money for such a good cause has never been more fun.

Keep checking the blog for some of the shiny items we will have in the auction and details of the day and we'll see you on June 25th at 11 am!

Donations Have Begun for our Silent Auction

2011-05-09T01:31:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who ordered t-shirts and/or hoodies. They will be available to be picked up at the Will Call table on the day of our event.

Tickets are now available for sale from John at La Fontana Caffee (where the Geeks hang out), north-east corner of Boundary and Hastings in Burnaby. Cash only please.

We are pleased to announce a new cross-stitch item by Amber for this year's Silent Auction. Last year's were hits at the auction. This year she's only doing one, so it's even more exclusive, but it's a great one, so get there early, bid often and bring lots of cashy money, as that's all we take.

Shiny, isn't it? It could be yours on June 25th!

T-shirts & Tickets Available Now!

2011-05-01T20:55:00.000-07:00

Tickets for CSTS Vancouver on June 25th are available now through the PayPal link on the right hand side and in person from the organiser. Unfortunately, Happy Bats is no longer in business so can't sell tickets for us. We will miss them as they were a great supporter of CSTS Vancouver from day one. Keep checking here and on Twitter for other places to buy tickets.

T-shirts are now on sale - for a very limited time. Payment must be made either through the blog or with cash in person by noon on Saturday, May 7th. This year's logo, designed by the organiser of CSTS Toronto, is beautiful and will be displayed on Men's/Unisex, Women's Baby Doll and Women's V-Neck t-shirts as well as pullover hoodies.

Order now as this will be your only chance to get an official CSTS 2011 shirt or hoodie - or both!

CSTS Vancouver 2011 is Saturday, June 25th!!

2011-03-29T01:29:00.000-07:00

We are officially registered as a CSTS participant and can now leap ahead with our planning! CSTS Vancouver 2011 will be held at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC, on June 25th from 11 am to 6 pm, with the doors opening at 10:30. The day will include a sing-along to Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, a costume contest, an Evil Laugh contest, Whedon trivia bingo, episodes from some locally produced web series, a silent auction and - oh yes, the Big Damn Movie, Serenity!

Tickets will be on sale soon. Keep checking this page for a look at this year's art contest winner - another Canadian, organiser of the Toronto 2011 CSTS - for news on ordering t-shirts and for a look at some of the items we have for the silent auction and prizes.

If you would like to be involved in this year's event, as a donor, sponsor or volunteer, you can contact us by e-mail at CSTSVancouver@gmail.com. We are especially interested in unique items - well-crafted geeky things always go well. Take a look through the archives to see what kind of objects we have had in the past.

FINAL TOTALS FOR 2010

2011-03-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

We had our best year ever in 2010, raising a total of $4,436.56, which meant $3,550 (rounded up) to Equality Now and $900 (also rounded up) to BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre Foundation. We received lovely thank you notes from both.

Before we get to CSTS 2011 (planning has already started!), I would like to thank all of our generous sponsors, especially The Comic Shop, Happy Bats Cinema and Serena's Everything Jayne's Hat Emporium for donating each of our five years. We hope those relationships will continue in the coming years. Please continue to support our sponsors as they support us. I'd also like to thank all the volunteers on the organising committee, those who helped out throughout the day, those who contributed prizes or items for the silent auction. This fundraising event could not continue without you and would not have been possible in the first place without the support of Serena Reynolds, Organiser of the BC Browncoats.

Coming soon: Date and time for CSTS Vancouver 2011, the winning artwork and more. If you would like to be involved in any way, please e-mail us at CSTSVancouver@gmail.com. (Hope you like the new look.)

A FEW TICKETS LEFT!

2010-06-25T23:57:00.000-07:00

There are still a few tickets left which will be sold at the door. Come early, you know you don't want to miss a moment - and bring lots of cash-y money for all the lovelies at the auction.

If you aren't able to make the event Saturday, you can still donate to it by clicking on the "Donate" button at the bottom of the page.

ONLY A FEW TICKETS LEFT!

2010-06-25T16:16:00.001-07:00

There are only a few tickets left. The PayPal cutoff is at 11 pm. If there are still tickets left, I will post that fact and they can be bought at the door Saturday morning. Doors open at 10:30 am.

SATURDAY'S SCHEDULE & SOME NOTES

2010-06-20T22:26:00.000-07:00

If you are picking up your PayPal tickets at “Will Call”, please bring a copy of your PayPal printout/receipt.

There are a limited number of grab bags available for a minimum $2 donation. Bingo cards are $.25 each with no limit and will be two lines in any direction rather than full blackout card for the win.

Beverages in containers with lids are allowed in the Auditorium, all other food and drink must be consumed outside the room. This year we are offering some food by donation, courtesy of John at La Fontana Caffe & friends, available in the Lounge on the other side of the Lower Lobby. You are also welcome to bring your own food or to go to one of the many food places near Cornwall & Cypress.

For anyone wishing to stay after the day’s main festivities are over, we have the Lounge booked until 9 pm and you’re welcome to bring in food, get together and order in or just hang out with your fellow Browncoats.

Please note that pay parking is now in effect at the Space Centre/Museum lot at a rate of $2 per hour; $10 flat rate for the day until 6 pm and $5 flat rate from 6 pm until 6 am. Since this change is fairly recent, EasyPark has been patrolling rather vigorously, especially just after 6 pm! There is little to no on-street parking in the area except for residents. If you are a member of the BC Browncoats there is a thread on the message board for anyone interested in carpooling.

FINAL REMINDER THAT ALL MONETARY TRANSACTIONS ARE CASH ONLY, so bring plenty of it and take home something special while helping to support Equality Now and BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre Foundation!

CSTS VANCOUVER 2010 - SCHEDULE - Saturday, June 26th

10:30 Doors open

11:00 Welcome
Dr. Horrible’s Sing-along Blog sing-along

11:50 Evil Laugh Contest

12:15 The Masked Roger

12:40 Costume Contest Parade & Prizes

1:00 Browncoats:Redemption

2:00 Whedon-works Bingo

3:00 Silent Auction ends; doors close
Introductions to movie

3:20 SERENITY

5:30 Auction winners announced - items to be picked up in the Lounge
Closing remarks and thank yous.

COSTUME CONTEST DETAILS

2010-06-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

Since we are doing things a little bit differently this year, the costume contest needs its own post. (The Schedule will be up in a couple of days.)

We're asking anyone who wants to take part in the costume contest to arrive early (doors open at 10:30) and follow the signs to the Ray Whittick Lounge. You will then have your picture taken by the official photographer and the three judges will rate your costume based on a point system which will take into account creativity, originality, craftmanship, relation to the category and overall impression. Judging will take place between 10:30 and 11:00 so that everyone can join the festivities when they start.

The two categories are: Firefly/Serenity 'verse and the greater Whedonverse.

At about 12:40, there will be a parade of contestants to the stage, where everyone can admire the wonderful array of costumes, and the prizes will be awarded.

Good luck to everyone!

More Exciting Items for the Auction!

2010-06-18T19:45:00.000-07:00

Are you one of the people who was bidding on Greg Edmonson's signed Firefly soundtrack CD last year and lost out when it went for $75!! Good news, not only did Greg sign and donate another one this year, but he also signed and donated a CD of his soundtrack to the Uncharted 2 video game, which recently won a BAFTA award!

Other items which have come in over the past couple of days include a 14" radio-controlled Dalek from Dr. Who; an Empress of the Racnoss action figure also from Dr. Who, donated by Comic Land; a Kevin Smith Inaction Figure, donated by Scott, and signed CDs from Paul and Storm, one of Wil Wheaton's favourite geek bands, along with an appropriate T-shirt.

If you ever wanted one of Adam Levermore (aka lexigeek's) original design maquettes, now's your chance. Quantum Mechanix only made 1500 of the Kaylee Maquettes, and they are sold out, but we have one, thanks to a generous donation from RX Comics.

We also have a $50 gift card from Windsor Plywood and a $100 gift card from Cibo Trattoria restaurant.

Again this year, Academie Duello has given us two gift certificates to enroll in one of their courses. This time each gift certificate is for two people, so bring your mother, father, sister, brother, partner, or friend and learn to sword fight!

If you don't have your ticket, you will be kicking yourself for missing out on all these wonderful donations. Don't forget to bring lots of cash with you, as that is the only thing we accept - and remember that it all goes to two very worthwhile charities, so it's win-win - you help women in BC and all over the world have better and healthier lives - and you end up with a special item - or two or three! - to cherish for a long time. Tickets are still available at Happy Bats Cinema (2830 Main Street) and by PayPal by clicking on the "Add to Cart" button at the bottom of this page.

Details of the costume contest will be posted shortly and the schedule of events will be up early next week.

More Auction Items from Other Fandoms

2010-06-14T23:18:00.000-07:00

We have been so lucky this year with donations from our members and some made by our members.

Robert from Happy Bats has donated a "Faith" from Angel action figure/diarama. It's still in the packaging and will be a sweet deal for any Faith fan.

Have you been watching V? One of the stars of that show, Logan Huffman who plays Tyler, signed a picture and donated it to us.

Kim knit this Dalek from Dr. Who. Aren't you just waiting for it to say "Exterminate! Exterminate!"?

VCON 35, Vancouver's science-fiction, fantasy, anime and everything geek con will be taking place from October 1-3rd. The theme this year is steampunk and they have donated two weekend passes for one, one of which includes a book by the special guest author, Cherie Priest.

If you enjoyed the latest Star Trek movie, you will want to own one of these actions figures from it, including Scotty and the original Spock.

Speaking of Canadian-born actors playing spaceship engineers, we love Jewel Staite as Kaylee, but she went on to play a doctor on Stargate:Atlantis and she has donated two cast pictures, signed by all of them. These are quite rare and we are honoured that she has given us two.

What's a Firefly/Serenity Event Without A Jayne's Hat?

2010-06-11T00:08:00.000-07:00

Serena has once again knitted and donated one of her (justly) famous Jayne's hats. She has also donated a Jayne's hat tea cosy. (Teapot not included.) Check out Serena's Everything Jayne's Hat E m porium for some of her other clever ideas. Toilet paper roll cover, anyone?

Local Browncoat Diana donated a stack of Serenity postcards, including these four 'travel posters', designed by well-known California Browncoat, lexigeek (Adam Levermore), who designed the logo and t-shirts for CSTS 2007 & 2008.

Another of our annual donors, The Comic Shop, has donated the new Firefly: Still Flying book. Not only are there lots of behind-the-scenes photos - some new - but it also includes four new stories by some of the writers of the series, including Jane Espenson and Ben Edlund.

Ever Sailed in a Firefly?

2010-06-03T22:29:00.000-07:00

We're happy that once again this year Jewel Staite (Kaylee) has generously donated some shiny items for our silent auction. She has autographed some new photos of Kaylee, each one with a special message, appropriate to the picture.

Auction Items from Other Fandoms

2010-05-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

We said we were equal opportunity and here's the proof - donated items from other fandoms.

An autographed picture of Justin Hartley, Green Arrow on Smallville, donated by one of our local members, Amie:

One of three sets of Buffy collectible cards, donated by Tristan.

And an autographed copy of an Angel comic, featuring Drusilla, written by Drusilla herself - Juliet Landau. Generously donated by Lioness, CSTS Toronto organiser.

So come to CSTS Vancouver, bring lots of cashy money, because that's the only kind we accept, and pick up an item - or two or three - at the auction, knowing your money is going to a good cause. It's a win/win situation!

Are You Ready To Sing??

2010-05-21T00:42:00.000-07:00

Great news! The CSTS cities have been given permission to show Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog at our events, so start exercising your vocal chords in preparation for singing along with Neil Patrick Harris, Felicia Day and Nathan Fillion. Of course, you have already been practising your evil laugh for our Evil Laugh Contest, haven't you?

2010-05-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who ordered a t-shirt or hoodie. They will be available to be picked up on the day of the event. If you missed out, we will have a t-shirt and a hoodie available at the silent auction to bid on. A reminder that the auction will be cash only.

We also have prizes for the Evil Laugh contest, Costume contest, and the Whedon trivia bingo. As part of the bingo prize package, I'm donating this cast picture from Dollhouse, signed by Shawna Trpcic, the costume designer. Shawna was also the costume designer for Firefly, Serenity, Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog and The Cabin in The Woods, which was filmed here and will be released in early 2011.

One of the newest BC Browncoats has donated a very shiny necklace she made to the auction.

Proving that we are an equal opportunity Geekdom, I am also donating this sheet of never-been-opened Star Wars US stamps to the auction.

Deadline Reminder!

2010-05-07T01:11:00.000-07:00

Don't forget if you want a t-shirt, hoodie or patches, the order - with payment - must be in by midnight Friday, May 7th. You can specify the colour under "instructions to the merchant" or e-mail me at serenityscreeningvancouver@yahoo.ca. Samples of the colours are in the post below and the PayPal buttons are at the bottom of the page. Why not try a blue or green shirt this year?

EXCITING NEWS!

2010-05-04T00:56:00.000-07:00

This just in! Vancouver has been picked as one of the seven CSTS cities to show a rough cut of the fan film, Browncoats: Redemption. Their official world premiere of the finished film (about 40 minutes in length) will be at Dragon*Con in September, but they are providing copies to the seven cities whose (short) essays they deemed the best. The topic was why your city should be picked. Watch the video announcement here.

Also, we will have the big screen debut of at least eight (very short) episodes of The Masked Roger: Mental Perceptionist, an original applicant to the Evil League of Evil, conceived, written, filmed, directed, and starring our own AlanD.

Shiny Auction Items & T-Shirt Deadline!

2010-05-02T23:06:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to order your t-shirt(s), hoodie or patches from the buttons below. Please include colour under 'special instructions' on your PayPal checkout page. Deadline is midnight, Friday, May 7th. See previous post for details and pictures.

Here are a few more items that will be available in our silent auction.

The Guild Season 2 DVD, signed by the stars at Comic-Con 2009, donated by AlanD.

Dr. Horrible goggles, donated by the California Browncoats. The top ones, which will go in the auction, are signed by Zack Whedon, Jed Whedon and Maurisa Tancharoen. The bottom ones are signed by Felicia Day and will be included as a door prize.

More Firefly cross-stitch from Amber.

Keep checking back to see more prizes and auction items. Don't forget to buy your tickets.

Tickets, T-shirts, Hoodies & Patches - Buy Now!

2010-04-24T01:14:00.000-07:00

Good news on all fronts! Tickets are now available for sale at Happy Bats Cinema (2830 Main Street) and at La Fontana Caffe (NE corner of Hastings & Boundary) - cash only at both places, please - as well as the button at the bottom of this blog. Price is $15 cash and $16 through PayPal on the blog. Tickets bought through the blog will be available at Will Call on the day of the event.

T-shirts, hoodies and patches with the CSTS 2010 logo are now up for pre-sale for a limited time. Orders must be in and paid for by midnight, Friday, May 7th. This year the t-shirts come in men's and women's styles and in a variety of colours. Please specify the colour desired in the "special instructions" section of the PayPal form when clicking on the buttons below.

T-shirts, both men's and women's, are $20 if paid in person and $22 through the blog; hoodies are $35 in person and $38 through the blog. Patches are $7.00. The hoodies are pull-on (not zippered) and will have the triangular logo on the front, with the list of cities hosting events this year on the back as well as Global sponsors, the same as the t-shirts. Patches will be the round logo (as seen in the previous post) and will be 4 inches in diameter. All merchandise can be picked up on the day of the event. If you are not able to come to the screening but would like a t-shirt, hoodie or patch, we will get it to you either at another event or by mail.

Choices of colours for the t-shirts and hoodies are seen below. Please note that not all colours are available in all styles. Here's a link to a sample of the unisex/men's t-shirt and here's the style of hoodie.

Unisex (men's) t-shirts are available in: black, dark chocolate, chestnut, miliary/Jayne green, sapphire and yellow haze.

Women's t-shirts are available in: black, chestnut, kiwi and royal blue.

Hoodies are available in: black, dark chocolate, kiwi and royal blue.

Yellow haze (M) Black (all) Chestnut (M & W) Dark Chocolate (M & H)

Sapphire (M) Royal Blue (W & H) Military/Jayne Green (M) Kiwi (W & H)

CSTS Vancouver 2010 is ON!!

2010-03-06T16:36:00.000-08:00

It’s happening again!! We have a confirmed date, place and time for Vancouver's 5th Annual Can't Stop The Serenity event! Last year, we raised $3,743.17, of which 20% went to BC Women's Hospital Foundation. (We rounded it up to $750, with the other $3,000 going to Equality Now.) This year we want to top that and have an exciting line-up of activities to enjoy.

Already, we have received items for our silent auction, including a $50 gift card to a group of restaurants that includes Swiss Chalet, Harveys and Milestones donated by Scott and this cross-stitch framed picture by Amber.

Shiny, isn’t it? Yours could be the winning bid!

Keep checking back for more auction items and prizes. Start thinking about your costume if you want to enter the costume contest - and bone up on your Whedon trivia. This year’s bingo will include questions from all of Joss’s shows: Buffy, Angel, Firefly/Serenity, Dollhouse and Dr. Horrible!

When:

Saturday, June 26th
11 am - 5:30 pm

Where:

H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
1100 Chestnut Street
Vancouver, BC
There is a large paid parking lot and transit runs within a few blocks - or you could take the Granville Island Ferry to the Vancouver Maritime Museum which is right next door.

Tickets ($15 in person, $16 through PayPal) can be purchased through the button at the bottom of the page or in person from the organisers. For more information, e-mail serenityscreeningvancouver@yahoo.ca.

Watch for an announcement about T-shirts for order. You can also follow us on Twitter @CSTSVancouver

Saturday's Schedule

2009-06-24T01:48:00.000-07:00

Here's the scheduled program for CSTS Vancouver 2009:

11:00 Doors open
11:25 Introductory remarks
11:30 Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog Sing-along
12:15 Evil Laugh Contest
12:30 Firefly Trivia Bingo
1:15 Door prizes - short break
1:30 Commentary! The Musical Sing-along
2:15 Costume Contest
2:45 Break
3:00 Silent Auction ends; doors close
Joss Whedon's Equality Now speech
3:15 Super Secret Special Introduction
3:30 SERENITY
5:30 Silent Auction winning bidders; thank yous, closing remarks

Do You Like to Read?

2009-06-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

Spider Robinson wrote a book called "Variable Star" as a completion of a draft by Robert A. Heinlein, requested by Heinlein's widow. Spider has signed and donated a hard cover copy of the book for our auction.

For more reading pleasure, you can bid on two tickets to VCON 34, Vancouver's annual science fiction, fantasy and gaming convention, along with a book from the guest author, Tanya Huff. If you don't recognise her name, you may recognise the name of the TV show made from one of her book series, "Blood Ties". The series, as was the first set of books, was set in Toronto, but was filmed in Vancouver after the pilot! You can see Tanya Huff live at VCON, October 2-4th at the Marriott Pinnacle Downtown. Check out their website for updated information.

Devil's Daughter, a new novel by Amber Benson (Tara, from Buffy the Vampire Slayer) has been donated by Robert from Happy Bats Cinema.

And The Comic Shop has donated two Buffy comic trade paperbacks for our auction: "The Long Way Home" and "The Time of Your Life".

The Donations Just Keep on Coming!

2009-06-18T19:13:00.000-07:00

Joss Whedon, in addition to giving us permission and paying all the rights so every city could show Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, has signed one of the small North American Serenity promotional posters for each city. Wouldn't you like to have that framed on your wall?

Or the 24" x 36" poster for this year's CSTS events, with most of the cities - including Vancouver, of course - listed. Only five will be available for bidding.

Greg Edmonson, composer of the music for Firefly, has always been generous to the fans. He has once again donated a signed CD of the soundtrack to the Vancouver event.

One of our own BC Browncoats, originator of the BIFF sci-fi group that meets on the North Shore on Friday nights, has donated a t-shirt, some Reaver bumper stickers and this wonderfully twisted mouse pad!

These will all be available at the Silent Auction so bring lots of cashy-money for the cause - and take home a great addition to your Whedonite collection. :D

It's Jayne, more Kaylee & a Serenity RPG Book!

2009-06-15T21:52:00.000-07:00

The autographed Adam Baldwin photo was donated by BC Browncoat member, Higlet; Jewel donated her pictures, of course; the picture of Stargate:SG1 recurring cast member David Palffy was donated by UBC Science Fiction & Fantasy Club; and the Serenity RPG book has been donated by Starlit Citadel. This book is so beautiful even if you have never participated in a Role-Playing Game - or ever intend to - you'll want to add this to your Serenity collection.

2009-06-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

Some of the shiny autographed pictures that Jewel Staite sent us for our Silent Auction.

Shiny Auction Items!

2009-06-05T15:28:00.000-07:00

On top of screening Serenity, singing along to Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog (and the Commentary), playing Firefly Trivia Bingo - and a costume contest - we have some great items for the Silent Auction.

Complete dinner for four, prepared by John from La Fontana, either at La Fontana, or ready for pickup. Meal choices to be determined by winner in consultation with John.

TWO gift certificates for introductory 8-session course on sword fighting from Academie Duello.

A three-day, two-night stay at the Marriott Whistler Residence Inn in Whistler, donated by Kim Manser.

Smallville autographed script

Jayne's hat tea cosy, designed and knit by Serena

A Jayne's hat Christmas tree ornament, also by Serena, of course!

Reaver Action Figure, donated by The Comic Shop

Vancouver Whitecaps Football Club (soccer) tickets, donated by Alan

Keep watching this space and buy your tickets soon for a chance to bid on these items and more, plus win prizes!

Why We Do This Every Year!

2009-05-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

The organisers of the charity screenings in the global event that is Can't Stop The Serenity (CSTS) are obviously fans of Joss Whedon and his works, especially the TV series Firefly and the subsequent movie, Serenity. But more than that, most of us are passionate about the work done by the charity that was originally chosen as the main beneficiary for the screenings, Equality Now. EN was chosen because it is Joss's favourite charity (one of his mother's former students was the co-founder) and because it strives to eliminate violence and discrimination of women and children throughout the world. If you haven't seen Joss's speech as he was presented with EN's Man on the Front Lines award in 2006 (which we show every year), watch it now.

So many of us are on limited budgets, especially these days, and can't afford to give as much as we would like to help end so-called honour killings - and now 'honour suicides' - human trafficking, female genital mutilation and domestic violence. By working for successful fundraising efforts such as this, we can do a small part to end these enormous problems. And the bonus is: we get to watch our favourite Big Damn Movie on a big screen once again, with the added pleasure of watching it with others who enjoy it as much - or maybe have never seen it before! See the CSTS promo clip on YouTube.

This year's Global Organiser, Anne Berringer, is writing a series of thoughtful articles on Fridays about why we do this. Here is the first one and here is last Friday's. Be sure to check out the rest of them and consider attending your local event - or having one of your own (see the CSTS forum for getting started) - or even donating to an event near you, if you can't attend.

In Vancouver, CSTS will be on Saturday, June 27th from 11 am to 6 pm, at the HR MacMillan Space Centre, 1100 Chestnut Street. Twenty percent of the net proceeds will be going to the BC Women's Hospital, with the other 80% to Equality Now. Join us for a Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog sing-along, silent auction, games, door prizes, goodie bags and more, plus Serenity on a big screen. Volunteers are always welcome. You can contact me at serenityscreeningvancouver at yahoo dot ca.

Don't forget the deadline for ordering and paying for T-shirts, postcards and patches is midnight, May 13th. Items bought through this blog, including tickets, can be picked up at the door. The T-shirts will have the 2009 winning design on the front and a list of participating cities on the back.

CSTS VANCOUVER 2009 - TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

2009-04-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

We have a venue, date and time, so ticket sales can begin!

Location: H.R. MacMillan Space Centre Auditorium, 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver

Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009

Time: 11 am to 6 pm

Not only will we be showing Serenity, but Joss has given permission for all the CSTS 2009 cities to show Dr. Horrible's Sing-along Blog - and we'll be singing along!

Dress up as your favourite Firefly/Serenity character - or anyone from the Joss verse - and you could win a prize. Silent Auction already has a few exciting items: an eight-week introductory course from Academie Duello, a meal prepared by John from La Fontana Caffe, a signed script from Smallville, a mousepad autographed by Jewel Staite with more to come. The Silent Auction is cash only.

Tickets are $15 each, available through the PayPal button below ($1 service charge will be added), from Happy Bats Cinema (cash only, please), 2830 Main Street (near 12th Avenue), or from a member of the organising team at any of the upcoming shindigs. Tickets bought through this website will be available for pickup at the door.

Join us for a day of fun activities, including games, singing, and much more, plus The Big Damn Movie, of course! We have door prizes, goodie bags and more! Keep checking back for updates.

T-shirts are available for pre-order. Payment through PayPal buttons below or in person must be made by May 13th. Check out this year's design by an Ottawa Browncoat. T-shirts can be picked up at the door on the day of the screening.

The Can't Stop The Serenity (CSTS) global movement is for the benefit of Equality Now, Joss Whedon's favourite charity, which works to end violence and discrimination against women and children throughout the world. Last year we pledged to donate 10% of the net proceeds to the BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre, which we did, to the tune of $300. This year, we will be donating 20% to BC Women's. So come out and support local and global charities and have a great time doing so.

Thanks to our generous donors and sponsors, especially Row Three, which continues as our largest donor. If you like movies, check out rowthree. com for up-to-date reviews and discussions.

We're Ready - Are You?

2008-06-21T19:09:00.000-07:00

Auction items are ready to go, prizes are primed, contest questions and quotes are waiting for answers. Online ticket sales will end at midnight tonight (June 21st) but there will be tickets at the door. Bring lots of cashy-money for the auction or just to donate (there's an ATM in the building), your knowledge of Firefly & Serenity, your costume - if you have one - and be prepared to have an exciting, fun time!

Traffic note: The Scotiabank marathon will be closing some streets and part of the Burrard Bridge up until about 10:30 am and Broadway between Macdonald and Blenheim will be closed for Greek Days from 11 am to 5 pm. Why not take transit?

Look what Jewel signed for us!

2008-06-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

A Kaylee mouse pad! Too pretty to use.

Serenity: Better Days comics

This is a binder given to the actors and has all the Serenity trading cards in it, including the "Women of Serenity"!

2008-06-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

To help you find your way by bus or car to UBC and the theatre in SUB, Colleen has done a great map. Click on the map and zoom for a larger size and to print.

ELEVEN REASONS TO ATTEND THE SCREENING!

2008-06-17T19:13:00.000-07:00

11. Jewel's 'for our eyes only' video.

10. We have a super-secret introduction to the movie!

9. Costume contest with great prizes!

8. Trivia contest with great prizes!

7. Door prizes that you don't have to do anything for except show up!

6. Sing-along filking with Cindy Turner, aka Shaddyr!

5. The world premiere of a new song by local Browncoat Brandon Klassen!

4. Silent auction with items signed by the cast of Smallville, James Marsters (Spike) and Jewel, among other things! (Cashy money only, please.)

3. Joss's Equality Now speech!

2. You will be supporting Equality Now and the BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre!

And the Number 1 reason to come to the charity screening:

1. To see Serenity on a big screen with a roomful of Browncoats!

Now doesn't that sound like a great way to spend the day? Tickets are still available through the PayPal button at the bottom of the page, and will be until 5 pm Saturday, and at Happy Bats Cinema until closing Friday night. Tickets will also be available at the door - cash only. See you there!

More Shiny Auction Items! - Do You Have Your Tickets Yet?

2008-06-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

Alliance Money pack - and ours is signed by Jewel!

Even if you never play a game, you'll want this beautiful hardcover book, with loads of pictures and information not found elsewhere. (Donated by Starlit Citadel.)

Some of our Shiny Auction Items!!

2008-06-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

The Smallville Season 6 DVD set, signed by cast members.

And five separate comics (donated by Elfsar Comics) signed by "Spike" himself, James Marsters.

2008-06-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

Although Jewel Staite will not be appearing in person, she is taping a Q & A for us that we will show before the movie. She sends her regrets that an unexpected business-related commitment will have her in another part of the world at the time of the screening. Jewel is signing some items for the Silent Auction as well, including a parasol, the Serenity: Better Days comic with Kaylee on the cover and some posters.

Stay tuned for more auction item announcements. Don't forget to bring lots of cash for the Silent Auction.

2008-05-25T20:56:00.000-07:00

Thanks to our generous sponsor, RowThree.com. If you like movies, you'll love this site.

Please check out these local donors:

Elfsar Comics has donated several "Spike" comics which have been signed by James Marsters for our Silent Auction as well as a Serenity ornament for a door prize.

Happy Bats Cinema has donated a T-shirt and a Done the Impossible DVD.

Starlit Citadel has donated the Serenity RPG book for the Silent Auction and a game for a door prize.

Carol's Costume Corner has donated a basket of wigs and other costume necessities for the costume contest.

Videomatica has donated a gift certificate for one month's free rental by mail and free publicity through their giveaway contests.

H.R. MacMillan Space Centre has donated four adult passes.

Serena Reynolds has donated a handmade Jayne's hat.

Chad Erickson has donated a Serenity calendar.

Global Sponsors (one prize for each city doing a CSTS screening this year) include:

Done The Impossible - the Done The Impossible CD Soundtrack

Quantum Mechanix (QMx) - a pack of Serenity Bank Heist Money

Dragonweave - a Serenity Kanji necklace

ReadMyChest.com - a special coupon for Custom Art

Joss Whedon Fan Club - a special membership package, which includes bumper sticker and a 'verse-themed T-shirt

Dark Horse Comics - Serenity: Better Days comics

The Bedlam Bards - Autographed On The Drift CD

NBC Universal - a Serenity Collector's Edition DVD

76th Battalion - the Browncoat Essential Kit, including keychain, magnet, earrings, patch, coffee mug, tote bag and more.

Prizes have also been donated one for the entire event, so there will be draws in each city and the winners will then go into an overall draw. These prizes are:

- a minisode voice talent role on Buffy Between the Lines;

- 2 full-event tickets to the Browncoat Ball donated by the hosts, Austin Browncoats. Winner is responsible for transportation, room and board.

- 2 gold Weekend Passes to the Salute to Firefly and Serenity convention donated by Creation Entertainment. Winner is responsible for transportation, room and board.

Winners must be present.

2008-05-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that Jewel Staite (Kaylee, of course!) has accepted our invitation to do a half-hour Q & A before the movie. She will also be autographing some items for the silent auction.

Items for the silent auction will include: Smallville Season 6 DVD set, signed by cast members; a Smallville Season 7 script, signed by cast members, "Spike" comics (donated by Elfsar Comics & Toys) signed by James Marsters.

Film Confirmed! Tickets on Sale Now!

2008-04-29T20:21:00.000-07:00

Tickets are now on sale for the Vancouver 2008 CSTS Serenity screening!

DATE: Sunday, June 22, 2008

TIME: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm (doors open at 11)

LOCATION: The Norm Theatre, in the Student Union Building,
6138 Student Union Blvd, UBC (University of British Columbia)

PRICE: $15.00 per ticket

Tickets can be purchased with PayPal using the "Add to Cart" button at the bottom of this page or from members of the BC Browncoats. An additional $1 service charge will be added to each ticket purchased on PayPal to cover the fees. We are pleased that Happy Bats Cinema, 198 East 15th Avenue (just west of Main Street) will also be selling tickets after Saturday, May 3rd. Tickets purchased through PayPal will be at the "Will Call" table at the event, under the name of the person who purchased the tickets.

The "Add to Cart" button can also be used to order this year's screening T-shirt, as pictured on the left. Price is $22.00, including the PayPal service charge. The back will have a list of all the participating cities. Please note, the shirt is as pictured on the models, not as in the poster.

T-shirts must be ordered and paid for by Thursday, May 14th and may be picked up at the event on the 22nd.

The charity screening is a global fundraising event for Equality Now, Joss Whedon's favourite charity. This year, Vancouver is also raising money for BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre. Ten percent of our net proceeds will be donated to BC Women's to help women and children throughout the province.

Join us for a day of fun activities including a costume contest, sing-along filking led by local filker Cindy Turner, a Silent Auction, door prizes throughout the day, and much more. The Norm Theatre has 397 new seats and we aim to fill them all. The concession stand will be open until 2:45, when the main event - the screening of Serenity - will commence. We ask that you patronise the concession stand for popcorn, drinks and candy, but feel free to 'brown bag' it or bring in outside food during the day.

Prizes in the costume contest will be presented to the best two costumes from the Firefly/Serenity 'verse, as well as the best two costumes from the wider Joss-verse.

A list of prizes will be added shortly. Stay tuned for updates.

2008 Charity Screening to be held on Sunday, June 22nd.

2008-04-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

In 2007 we had a wonderful event which was even more successful than we hoped. Thanks to getting an earlier start, selling tickets at the Buffy Sing-Along event on June 2nd, Happy Bats selling tickets for us, and especially the announcement that Jewel was going to be on hand to introduce the movie, we had sold all 210 tickets several days before the event. We had our first ever sponsor, Mad About Movies, and almost $200 in donations on the day.

Not only did Jewel introduce the movie, she pulled the names for the door prizes and handed them out, then after the movie, she stayed outside the theatre for an hour, talking to everyone who was there, autographing items people brought to her, and posing for pictures. She was gracious and patient, as was her husband Matt, and everybody was very pleased to have spent time with her.

We doubled the amount of money we were able to send to Equality Now, to $2,600 (helped by the rise in the Canadian dollar!) and everyone seemed to have a good time.

In 2008, we expect to have more activities surrounding the movie, including a silent auction. Details of the time, place and donations will be posted shortly. In the meantime, make sure you mark Sunday, June 22, 2008 on the calendar for a fun-filled day.

WE'RE SOLD OUT!!

2007-06-19T22:21:00.001-07:00

Thank you very much to all who have bought tickets for the charity screening. We have now sold out the theatre and can prepare for an afternoon of fun and excitement!

Costumes are welcome - and there are prizes for the best male and female costumes.

See you there!

LESS THAN 20 TICKETS LEFT!

2007-06-18T18:50:00.000-07:00

We have less than 20 tickets left for the screening! If you don't have your ticket yet, I suggest you buy it now, as we may be sold out by tomorrow.

Our thanks to our sponsor, MadAboutMovies.net. Check out up-to-date movie reviews of current blockbusters and the seldom-heard-of. If the movie has been made, MadAboutMovies.net has probably seen it.

Special Guest!

2007-06-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

I've just heard from Jewel Staite (aka Kaylee) that she would be pleased to be our special guest at the screening and introduce the movie, as well as draw the names for the door prizes. Our special event just got even better!!

Only Two Weeks Left! Get Your Tickets Now!

2007-06-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

Tickets are $15 and are available from members of the Organising Team, through the PayPal button at the bottom of the page ($1 service charge added) and now from Happy Bats Cinema, 198 East 15th Avenue (at Main). Thank you, Happy Bats! We're aiming for a sellout this year, so that we have a generous donation to Equality Now!

Again this year we have some wonderful door prizes, including:

a $25 gift certificate from Videomatica;

a Trade Paperback of the Serenity comics, Those Left Behind, courtesy of The Comic Shop;

2 Done The Impossible DVDs and 2 T-shirts from Happy Bats Cinema ;

a DVD of the "Making of the Women of Sci-Fi Calendar" from Slacktwaddle.

Global Sponsors and their donations include:

Universal Home Entertainment: A voucher for the "Serenity: Special Edition" DVD, coming in late summer;
Dark Horse Comics: a copy of "Serenity: Those Left Behind" Trade Paperback and a mini-poster promoting the comic;
BenBella Books: a copy of "Finding Serenity" (essays on "Firefly"), autographed by Jane Espenson and a voucher for "Serenity Found", being released in September;
Things From Another World (TFAW): the Buffy Season 8 Comic #1, written by Joss Whedon, Variant cover;
Quantum Mechanix: "Fan Club Edition" Serenity Alliance Money Pack;
Done the Impossible: the Done The Impossible DVD;
Bedlam Bards: autographed CD;
Dragonweave: "Serenity" kanji jewellery;
ReadMyChest.com: buttons and stickers.

Special thanks to Adam at Black Market Beagles who designed this year's logo and T-shirt.

In addition, everyone who attends the screening will be able to put their name in a draw for a chance to win two tickets on the Browncoat Cruise, December 1, 2007. The winner of the draw in each city will be eligible for the overall draw for two tickets. Winner is responsible for transportation to and from San Diego.

There will be five jam-packed prize packages this year, each one including an item autographed by Joss Whedon, a Serenity-related T-shirt, a TPB of the Serenity comic, a DVD and other surprises. Buy your ticket now for a chance at these fabulous prize packs. Canada Safeway has also contributed to the goodie bags.

T-Shirts For Sale!

2007-05-10T00:08:00.000-07:00

Here is the flyer that Chad put together from lexigeek's winning design. This design is also featured on the front of this year's T-shirts, with a list of the cities involved on the back.

The T-shirts are $20 each, size S to 3XL, with all proceeds going to Equality Now, and are available for prepaid orders only until May 14th. Just click on the second button below. (There is a $2 service charge to cover the PayPal fees.) Payment and orders can also be made in person from a member of the organising team.

Again this year we have some wonderful door prizes, including a $25 gift certificate from Videomatica. We have a number of donations from global sponsors - they have given one item to each of the cities involved this year.

Global Sponsors and their donations include:

Universal Home Entertainment: A voucher for the "Serenity: Special Edition" DVD, coming in late summer;
Dark Horse Comics: a copy of "Serenity: Those Left Behind" Trade Paperback and a mini-poster promoting the comic;
BenBella Books: a copy of "Finding Serenity" (essays on "Firefly"), autographed by Jane Espenson and a voucher for "Serenity Found", being released in September;
Things From Another World (TFAW): the Buffy Season 8 Comic #1, written by Joss Whedon, Variant cover;
Quantum Mechanix: "Fan Club Edition" Serenity Alliance Money Pack;
Black Market Beagles: a poster, either "Miranda" or "Serenity Crew";
Done the Impossible: the Done The Impossible DVD;
Bedlam Bards: autographed CD;
Dragonweave: "Serenity" kanji jewellery;
ReadMyChest.com: buttons and stickers.

In addition, everyone who attends the screening will be able to put their name in a draw for a chance to win two tickets on the Browncoat Cruise, December 1, 2007. The winner of the draw in each city will be eligible for the overall draw for two tickets. Winner is responsible for transportation to and from San Diego.

WE HAVE A GO FOR THE SCREENING!

2007-03-31T23:04:00.000-07:00

We're a go for the charity screening!

We have a date: Saturday, June 23rd;

a time: 1 - 5 pm, with doors opening at 1:45;

a theatre: Pacific Cinematheque;

and a film: "Serenity".

This will be the second annual Serenity Now/Equality Now charity screening. Last year, 47 cities in five countries raised more than $69,000 for Joss's favourite charity, Equality Now, an organization that works to end violence and discrimination against women throughout the world.

This year 50 cities in 10 countries have expressed an interest in taking part and we're hoping to raise $100,000.

So get out your Jayne's hat, tune up your voice and tell all your friends! Dust off your lending set of "Firefly" DVDs. (You don't have a lending set, you say, then invite your friends over to watch it with you.) We want a sellout (210). If you haven't seen "Serenity" on the big screen, you're in for a treat - especially when you see it with a couple of hundred other fans.

We have door prizes! And we're working on a few other things. If you're willing to help out in any way - putting up posters, donating money, time or prizes, please contact me at serenityscreeningvancouver@yahoo.ca. We're looking for sponsors as well as donors. Sponsors & donors will be named, in the handout at the theatre, and in a presentation at the theatre (PowerPoint or other). The more money we get from sponsors, the more money we can give to Equality Now!

Tickets are on sale from members of the Organizing Committee, starting tomorrow, and from the through PayPal here - just click on the "add to cart" icon at the bottom of the page.

Tickets are $13 up to May 31st, $15 after May 31st. There will be a $1 service charge added to the tickets bought through PayPal to cover the cost of the transaction.

We have a lot of work to do between now and June 23rd to sell tickets and get the word out, but we are going to have a great time!

2007-02-11T01:28:00.000-08:00

CAN'T STOP THE SERENITY SCREENINGS 2007

We're going to do it again! Last year 47 cities around the world held screenings of Joss Whedon's Serenity to benefit his favourite charity, Equality Now. We raised over $65,000.

This year over 40 cities in eight countries have already signed up - and Vancouver is once again one of them. The target date is June 23rd or the week leading up to it, depending on what theatre we are able to book. Currently we are looking for sponsors and donors for giveaways.

Any donors or sponsors will be acknowledged in a handout at the theatre, on this website and, depending on the theatre capabilities, a PowerPoint presentation before the movie.

Stay tuned for more details. You can also check out the CSTS website and see this year's logo and poster, designed by Adam from BlackMarketBeagles.

SPONSORS:

Post-Screening Update

2006-06-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

What a Shiny Time we had! The initial estimate is that we raised about $1,000 for Equality Now. Not bad, especially considering the competition we had for the audience: the Peace Walk, the Jazz Festival and the hottest day of the year so far! Even so, 137 Browncoats and their friends and family came together to see Serenity on the big screen one more time. We laughed, we cried - and that was just during the DVD of Joss's speech as an honoree at Equality Now's "Men on the Front Lines" in May!

As people came in to the theatre, the Done the Impossible preview DVD was playing. At 2:15, we introduced ourselves, announced the winners of the costume contest, then drew tickets for the 15 door prize packs, including the Ron Glass-autographed script. The prizes were distributed in the outside courtyard after the movie. We then watched the DVD of Joss's speech, I read the last couple of sentences of Joss's message from last year's prescreenings and we all settled back to watch the movie.

Money raised from 47 cities in five countries around the world so far: $61,189.78 (Est.), with 35 cities reporting. We truly have "done the impossible, so that makes us mighty".

If you would still like to donate to Equality Now, you can go here, and when the form asks how you heard about Equality Now, please type in the code "SNEN-YVRBC", which stands for "Serenity Now/Equality Now - Vancouver Browncoats" and the money will be credited to our total.

Thank you to the amazing organizing team and thank you to all who came out and contributed to such a wonderful event!

Thank you to all those who donated items for our prize packs:
The Bedlam Bards
The Comic Shop
DragonWeave Jewellery
Greg Edmonson
Chad Erickson
BJ Goglin
Ron Glass
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Brandon Klassen
ReaverMadness.com
Serena Reynolds
Slacktwaddle (Women of Sci-Fi Calendar)
Starbucks
Titan Books
Wash-o-saurus.com
White Dwarf Books

and, of course, a very big thank you and Happy Birthday to the man himself, Joss Whedon.

Serenity Now/Equality Now

2006-04-29T15:23:00.000-07:00

Hear about the plans!

We are confirmed for the screening!

Date: Saturday, June 24, 2006
Time: 2:15 pm
Doors open at 1:45 pm

Location: Pacific Cinematheque
1131 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC

Tickets are $15.

Tickets may be purchased with credit card or PayPal by clicking the shopping cart icon below, through the PayPal link on the Browncoats meetup site: http://firefly.meetup.com/12, or in person from one of the organizing team.

For more information, check the links to the right, or e-mail: serenityscreeningvancouver@yahoo.ca.

If you are not able to come to the screening, but would like to donate to Equality Now, you can do so at their website: http://equalitynow.org. When the form asks you where you heard about them, put in the code "SNEN - YVRBC", so that they know the money should be credited to the Vancouver Screening.

There will be DOOR PRIZES and a prize for the best costume!

So far, we have confirmed:

- Greg Edmonson's Firefly soundtrack CD - autographed

- The Bedlam Bards' CD On the Drift - autographed

- Serenity pendants from Dragonweave Jewelry

- a handknit Jayne's hat

- passes from the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre

- a gift pack from Starbucks

- a custom-made Serenity/Firefly T-shirt by bj

- silicone bracelets from Wash-o-saurus

- a 72-card base set of Serenity trading cards

- a 72-card base set of Firefly trading cards

- a Joss Whedon: Master at Play creative screenwriting DVD

- Serenity action figures from The Comic Shop

- books from White Dwarf Books

- Women of Sci-Fi Calendar for 2007

- the "Making of the Women of Sci-Fi Calendar" DVD

- a script of the Firefly episode "Shindig", autographed by Ron Glass

- an autographed picture of Ron Glass

- a Serenity CD carrying case

- more prizes to come