RONBO

In attending the Madison convention I noticed small and large changes in how the Convention was run. Almost all of them were from the current E-board and whoever they designated to the task for the National Convention. I'm sure others were involved. First off the Registration process was the smoothest I'd have ever seen computer based and individualized for each member either entering models or just to get a t shirt and a decal sheet. Totally customized to cater to the membership. In my mind it was a eye opening experience. Second Judging with the NCC changes since the San Marcos Convention was a big question mark . I think it went very well. That being said I'm sure other clubs may have considered bidding but before you commit 2 yrs of your life the clubs wanted to make sure what they are committing to. That in itself may have dampened enthusiasm to make a bid at this time. Third going into the future I feel in my opinion the operations are being streamlined to enhance the member experience. Systems shouldn't change year to year at every National going forward. No more Chiseling a new wheel for the National Convention. Also this is the first year that the National E-board has opened access to the membership in a social setting a nice way for members to discuss concerns and criticisms and what members think what IPMS is doing right. And another meet and greet session was held with club officers and RC's to hear concerns and to exchange questions and share ideas and suggestions. I'm definitely seeing a trend towards transparency and seeking member input. Fourth volunteers the lifeblood of any organization. In my opinion that is what the host club will provide in hosting a National Convention. If you saw a red t shirt in the Madison Convention, you could get directions to where to go from registration to vendors to help unload into the vendor area and help them at the end of the Convention. And many clubs outside of the Madison club stepped up and helped the Convention run as smoothly as humanly possible, adding to the experience and providing value by them being there. In conclusion IPMS will see other bidders in the future in my opinion. I think we're in a wait and see period. Like anything, new clubs and modelers want to see how this goes. Local clubs are the lifeblood of the Society. Ron Thorne Jr RC 5

I'm sure IPMS/USA would entertain other bidders if any club is willing to make a bid. Ron Thorne Jr RC 5

Everyone is entitled to their opinions. Ron Thorne Jr.

Italeri has the same truck for considerably less money take a look at Ebay RONBO

Just about a year ago we as a society gathered in Chattanooga TN. The world has turned upside down since then. With all the modeling shows being cancelled. I would like to suggest that we take a look back and share some stories and pictures. It would be a great feeling to remember the fun and models. Looking forward till we meet again. RONBO. Head Bottle Washer.

I'm in for a poster. Great art I say. RONBO.

They are still there as I type. Don't understand it. After each new event contest whatever. The date is the last line. All of the upcoming contests have a date December 31 1969. Go figure. Ronbo

On the main page it seems that December 31 1969 is a popular date for contests. How can I get on the time machine. I could change all the mistakes I made in my life. Just kidding. But the dates are wrong. RONBO Head bottle washer.

Good Golly Ned, I don't envy being a judge at JAXCON. That is a lot of fine work on the tables. Gil it looks like another great show. RONBO.

The only thing I can think of now is Bob Segar's Turn The Page. Damn Paine,Verlinden my heroes are dying and or retiring I will miss them all. The clock it sure ticking fast these days. Ronbo.

Chattanooga 2019 I think is the correct dates. A month of National conventions that would be a kick butt fun. But at my age I am not sure I could handle all that excitement. Tho I am willing to give it a shot. Just like France take the whole month of August off. Model stuff all day and night for 30 days. Just kidding here. Ronbo.

I am 99.9% sure the the shop was liquidated.The last I was aware of he was selling Grex air brushes. The last time I was vending in Tennessee he sold his whole inventory to one man that was at 2 yrs ago. Ronbo.

As a vendor and model builder I would never sign such a contract. As a contest participant when I am ready to leave after the judging is completed.I retrieve my models pack them up then take my leave. My models my decision. As to the vending issue everyone thinks this is a new problem vendors buy out other vendors at shows for decades right at the venue. Nothing new here.The only thing now is the E-bay sellers are more blatant and and undercut the actual worth of the vendor table. The whole reason the are there in the first place. Most that I see at contests cherry pick the table and move on. But some vendors just want to get rid of kits at almost any price. The clubs has made some money by selling the tables in the first place and I have never seen these buyer ever buy out a vendor room. It's not like you have a lot of hobby shops vending anymore you have what I like to call privateers modelers emptying out their collections. Let's face it most of us have more models than we can ever build. So rather than let someone else in my family or friends deal with it. If someone is willing to give me the proper number to buy my kits I will sell them. The last time I looked I was in America part of this is free and fair trade. So if one wants to compete in the vendor room one has to be there early and compete . The early bird gets the worm? Most of the privateers have enough models to keep buying vendor tables for years to come. RONBO.

Gil, Trumpeter has produced a 1/24 P-51 D. The kit was released about 6-8 yrs ago. Also included two resin pilots. Missed you in Chattanooga it was a great show. Ronbo.

Gil, that is exactly what the paddles are semaphore to signal other tank when to turn without exposure to a lead filled environment. Mr. Bell your tank is very nice. Takom has a Mk IV & a MkV also. Ronbo.