Where are you from originally or reside currently:   Purcellville, Virginia, USA.

How long you have been cosplaying:   Over 40 years now.

Other Characters cosplayed:    Again, Over 40 Years Costuming/Cosplaying so, Loads !!!
Currently I am best known for Deadpool, Ra’s Al Ghul, Abraham Whistler, Gold Lion Power Ranger, Krampus, and Jedi.

Website or Facebook fan page: www.facebook.com/deadpoolavenger.azaeca

East Coast Avengers

1. Who or what inspired you to cosplay?

I started So long ago that all I can remember was that I envisioned the costume, and wanted to become a character, so I made it. Then, years later, I saw a person costumed as Cornelius from Planet of the Apes at a promotional appearance, and he had a gorilla mask on. That was when I knew that I could do better than that.

2. What do you do when you aren’t cosplaying? (hobbies, community service, or work)

Other than Cosplay, I also do Medieval Re-enactment and have been known to fight in full armour amongst Thousands of fighters. I also am the Founder and Commanding Officer of the East Coast Avengers, so that takes up some time too. Then I help take care of several elderly neighbours whom have been virtually abandoned by their families. That takes time as well.

3. What costumes have provided the biggest challenge and rewards so far and why?

Each costume has its own inherent challenges. Some required that I make everything from scratch, especially in the days before the interwebz, when nothing was available pre-made. I could go on for days on this subject alone. my biggest ‘reward’ is working with the charities, and the children. Connecting on a hero level changes both the child and the hero, for the better, forever.

4. What is the best advice you would give someone new to cosplaying?

I have a LOT of sayings, and more every day, but the root one is this:
“You’re Doing Make~Believe Wrong” is Never a True Statement !!!

5. What is one thing the cosplaying community can do better when it comes to dealing with each other?

The one thing that the Cosplay Community (and the World, really) can do better is for everyone to take personal responsibility to be more empathic with everyone. That enables all of the rest of the better things to happen!!

I have been doing this for a very long time now, and I am still so proud to be part of it with everyone!!
Thanks, Everyone!!!