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CalMex 2013


Mark Aldrich

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Thanks, Mark, for posting the images.

IPMS SWAMP is located in the Lake Charles area, along I-10 about 25 miles east of the Tx-La state line. SWAMP'S annual event is called CALMEX and it is always a fun event. The event is "medium sized" in that the number of entries is usually between 200 and 280 or so, but the good news about CALMEX is spreading and this year SWAMP set a new record with 322 entries.

 

The models are always interesting to inspect, and the quality of the entries is rather staggering. Some nationally-recognized figure painters are present and to view their work is quite inspiring. And then there are the models entered by several IPMS veteran members whose models have "placed" at the IPMS National Conventions.

 

The vendor area is always well stocked it is very easy to find carloads of great bargains.

 

SWAMP feeds their judges. You should know that the world's best gumbo is prepared by some of the SWAMP member's families.

 

The atmosphere is friendly, the facility is comfortable, the food is outstanding, and the competition is always congenial but keen.

 

For those who like sightseeing a bit, the coast is only a 30 minute drive from the contest site, passing through the Sabine wildlife refuge. Birds and other critters are everywhere.

 

Folks, it just doesn't get any better than this! Well, actually, it does......

SWAMP is a strong supporter of IPMS and, in particular, the Support the Troops program. SWAMP provides IPMS some table space and IPMS is able to sign up new members, renew current or former members, and have an "IPMS" presence at the event. Also, SWAMP actively supports the Support the Troops Donation Station by announcing its presence over the PA system and encouraging visitors to donate items, Announcements to that effect are made throughout the day by SWAMP staffers. In fact, within the next two days (Jan-2013) two cases of models collected at the Donation Station will be sent overseas to troops in Afghanistan!

This year, the Leischman family donated a home-made quilt to the SST program and you can view the quilt and an image of most of the SWAMP members in the IPMS Event Gallery at http://www.ipmsusa3....C09458.JPG.html. Images of the Best of Show (figure) and Most Popular Model (a Wingnut Wings kit) are featured on the first page of the event album.

 

Thanks to the fine folks at SWAMP for another very enjoyable and relaxing weekend! See you next year!

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The Akagi's builder is most likely Rick Cotton from IPMS Houston. He does the wooden deck weathering, I am told, with colored pencils.

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