20-21 OCT Region 2 Convention Update - 2 weeks to go!

Modelers,

Just two weeks to the Region 2 Convention!! We got the crummy weather out of the way this weekend, heavy rains and tidal flooding, so that it will be sunny and pleasant for TIDEWATERCON. Here is a brief update.

- The list of seminars and speakers are posted. We have an impressive list including Dana Bell, Dave Baker, Dave Klaus, Floyd Werner and Lynn Ritger. The seminars will go on Friday evening and through the day on Saturday - so plan your arrival accordingly so you do not miss out.

- We have added more vendors and have a good variety. There are still tables available if you want to thin your collection. One vendor that we have just added is the F-14 Tomcatter Sunsetter Association (made of of former F-14 officers and aircrew) that will be selling merchandise commemorating the retirement of the Tomcat.

- We will also have special display of 1/48 F-14 models built as part of the Sunsetter symposium that went on a few weeks ago at the Convention Center.

- We have the free tour on Friday to the Fighter Factory's operational facility where Jerry Yagen keeps his restored aircraft; it is already busting at the seams. The tour leaves the VBCC at 3:00pm and returns by 6:00pm in time for the first seminars. This is a great opportunity! We will be convoying down to the site. Please email me to sign up.

- Trophy packages - we still have trophy packages available at just $35 a set. If your club or individuals in your club want to provide sponsorship, please email direct. The list of remaining packages is on the convention website.

- Raffle - We are looking for donations to make the raffle particularly spectacular. We will have two raffles - one will be the standard raffle of kits, books and aftermarket goodies. The other will be for a special a piece of art work donated by Jan Rucks the widow on the late owner of Combat Models - John Rucks. Those tickets will understandably be priced a little hire.

- Club Displays. Tables are still available at $15 a pice if your club wants to have a display table. Time is running short so please email me as soon as possible if interested.

- We will be collecting donations for to send to the Soldiers, Marines, Airman and Sailors in Iraq/Afghanistan - we are calling it "Toys for Troops".

- Discount rooms at the Double Tree have closed. However, if you have been procrastinating call the hotel, they still may honor the IPMS rate. If not there are plenty of hotels nearby with good rates at this time of year.

We have worked hard to bring the diverse modeling community together for this two day event. We look forward to being your hosts and will have our ears open for ideas in 2008. Please check our website for the latest updates - we have changes the layout to make it easier for you to find information. http://www.ipmstidewater.org/2con_home.htm

See you in Virginia Beach in two weeks!

Charles Landrum

Chairman