Getting ready to run the 5k, individuals of all ages enjoyed the wonderful weather. (Dustin White)

Dustin White

Editor

A long time ago, in our own galaxy, a film was produced that created a ripple that is still felt today. The year was 1977, the movie was Star Wars, and it became a cultural phenomenon that has transcended generations. In Bismarck, the effect was recently felt during the May the 4th Be With You 5k, hosted by URL Radio.

Over the years, URL Radio has produced a number of great events. However, this was the first year they decided to try something for May 4th, a day that has become intimately tied with Star Wars.

“We had been thinking about an event for May 4th for awhile, but after our last event, we decided just to go for it,” Stacy Sturm, co-owner of URL Radio, said.

Combined with wonderful weather, the community was set for such an event. With families coming out, dressed as their favorite characters, the walk was fun for all ages.

Standing outside the Jack’s Steakhouse food truck, even Garrison members get hungry. (Dustin White)

The Garrison

Fresh off a trip from the Standing Rock Elementary School in Fort Yates, where they read books to students, members of the Mandalorian Mercs, and the Central Garrison of the 501st Legion, dressed in full Star Wars attire, were on hand for photos, as well as to cheer on the runners.

Dressed in full armor, the four, Rick Carman, Joshua Rhoads, Kristopher Heid, and Ben Buchmiller, endured temperatures reaching up to 80 degrees. However, while they worked to keep cool throughout the evening, they continued to also be a big draw, with runners and families posing with the group for photos. 

Also showing up for the event was Jack’s Steakhouse, rolling in with their food truck.

With a time 0f 18 minutes, 44 seconds, April Lund, posing with members of the Garrison, was the first place winner. (Dustin White)

Runners

While the evening was filled with great food and fun, the real draw were the runners. Spanning a diverse age range, the event proved to be successful for all.

For April Lund, the evening was even more of a success though. With a time of 18 minutes, 44 seconds, she was the 5k winner.