WHAT:
Star Wars First Day of Sale stamp unveiling ceremony. The excitement generated by the appearance of R2-D2 mail collection boxes across the country that continued with an online ballot and sweepstakes, reaches its peak May 25th when Star Wars fans and stamp collectors get what they've been calling for: the dedication and issuance of the 41-cent Star Wars commemorative stamps in 15 designs.

WHEN:
May 25, 2007, 11:00 a.m. CT

WHERE:
COMPEX stamp show, Forest View Educational Center, 2121 South Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights, Illinois.

WHO:
Arlene Mulder, Mayor of Arlington Heights
Charles Berg, President, COMPEX
Janet Oliver, Customer Service Analyst, U.S. Postal Service
Chris Lazaroff, President, American First Day Cover Society
Mary Walton, Midwest Garrison, 501st Legion, Vader's Fist
Bart Benjamin, Director, Cernan Earth & Space Center
Elizabeth Owens, Postmaster, Arlington Heights.

NOTE:
The national First Day of Issuance ceremony will be held on May 25 at a special dedication ceremony at the Star Wars Celebration IV, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, 7:30 p.m. (PT).

On May 25, 1977, Star Wars opened at 32 movie theaters around the country. Since then, it has thrilled moviegoers around the world with its epic story of good versus evil. Set across a fantastic galaxy of exotic planets and bizarre creatures, the saga tells the mythic tale of the disintegration of the Old Republic, the creation of the Empire, the rise of the evil Darth Vader, and the ultimate victory of the Rebel Alliance. From the wisdom and power of Yoda to the brave deeds of Jedi Knights and improbable heroes, Star Wars has inspired generations of fans with its unbridled sense of adventure, advancing the art of filmmaking while leaving an indelible mark on our cultural landscape — and imaginations.

The 2007 COMPEX STAMP SHOW runs May 25 through May 27 and the show hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free and the public is welcome. The show features Youth Exhibits, 250-Frame Exhibits, and philatelic dealers showcasing many rare stamps and stamp stationery.

Live Star Wars characters from the 501st Legion will participate in the ceremony.

CONTACT:
Tim Ratliff (630) 260-5606, timothy.d.ratliff@usps.gov - U.S. Postal Service
Randall Sherman (773) 744-8839, shermanrandall@hotmail.com - COMPEX

An independent federal agency, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that visits 146 million homes and businesses, six days a week. It has 37,000 retail locations and relies on the sale of postage, products, and services to cover its operating expenses. The Postal Service has annual revenues of $73 billion and delivers nearly half the world’s mail.