Region 1 Update 09-19-07

Greetings Region 1-ites!!

This update is being written from my new home office, formally my son’s room. It’s very cool to have a dedicated office, the kids have moved out, and the dog died. Life is good!! And now, on to the news.

First, I must take a moment to pass along that IPMS Head Armor Judge, Art Gerber has passed away. Many of you may know Art from his numerous trips attending Noreastcon, attending the IPMS national convention, or from an AMPS event. Art was a really nice guy who was always fun to talk to. I’ll miss seeing him at various IPMS events, as I know most of you will also. Art had a profound effect on the way IPMS judging in the armor areas is conducted, and to honor that impact, I’ve been told the Best Armor Award at the IPMS nationals will be renamed in his honor. I feel this is a most fitting way to honor this gentleman, and superb modeler. Our condolences go out to his family.

On a happier note, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the newest chapter to IPMS and Region 1. IPMS Penobscot Valley Modelers is our new addition to the IPMS family. They’re a brand new group that is hoping for good things to come from affiliating with IPMS. Led by President Keith Heald, they meet at Joe’s Hobbies each Thursday evening in Howland Maine. Russell Keith is the chapter contact, and his info is below. Please add Russ to your address books and mailing lists. I’m sure they’d like to hear from everyone, as well as sharing what they’re doing with us. They’re the first new chapter in region1 in quite a while, and I’m happy to welcome them to Region 1.

Russell Keith, IPMS# 45550
15 Spring Street
Lincoln, ME 04457
207-794-8517
talos_79@yahoo.com

The rechartering period is coming up fast, so now is the time for all chapters to dust off your fact sheets, and make sure they’re up to date. If you can’t find it, let me know and I’ll shoot another copy off to you. Just e mail an updated copy of the fact sheet to Dick Montgomery and me, then snail mail a check to Dick, and it’s done. The important thing are that the officer corps and the five required members are all current IPMS members, who’s expiration dates are AFTER 1 January 2008. The officers do count towards the five!! And don’t forget the rechartering fee has been increased to $20.00, and the deadline is still 31 December 2007. I’ll remind everyone again after 1 October that it’s rechartering time!!

The current election of national officers is nearly complete. I hope everyone has voted, because your chance is rapidly diminishing!! One problem with the elections has been the low turnout, which brings the agony of hoping for enough votes to make a valid ballot. Please take the time to vote, even if you don’t like any of the candidates, as there’s a box on the ballot for an abstention, which still counts toward a valid election. There are some fine people running for office, and some real choices. Please make one!!!

The web site for the 2008 National Convention is now active, and can be found at: http://www.ipmsusa2008.org All the latest greatest info will appear for what is looking like another great event. I would expect a good number of Region1 folk to attend being it’s fairly close.

The two mini-meetings are still scheduled for the Mid Hudson event on 20 October for the western end of the region, and Baycon on 4 November for the eastern end. I would hope each chapter is able to end a rep to one, or both. We’ll save a seat for you!!

The fall contest schedule will be starting very soon, I’ll send out a new schedule, including what I have for 08 shortly. But I have to say please support your brother chapters’ events with sponsorships, attendance, and helping judge when you get there. We all know a helping hand is most welcome, especially when it’s your show!!

With all that behind us, it’s time to close this blabbering. Until next time anyway!! Be safe, and as always, share this with the officers and members of your chapter!!

Semper Fi

Doug Hamilton

RC-1

Bulletin: September, 2007

THE MINUTES

by Bobby the Blue

August was looking like it might’ve been a washout with a rain storm hitting during the rush hour, but it seems the BBQ had people showing up anyway! We had 28 members and one guest bringing in 42 models.

AUGUST MEETING!!!

CONTEST NIGHT – 3RD QTR 2007: We had the third installment of the annual contest. The votes are in. Your last chance to rack up some extra votes will be in November, the fourth quarter contest.

SUMMER BBQ: Since the turn out for the meeting was slightly off, it was pretty easy to maintain order over the food. A heavy team of dedicated gents worked together to make this a wonderful event. First and foremost we have to thanks Vinny, without his efforts we wouldn’t be able to even have such an occasion. He got us the place. He secured the grills, and picked up the lion share of the grub. You’re too awesome dude! We also need to thank Don Illjes and Mike Crescenzo for assisting with the cooking duties. Other guys to thank for contributing food would be Don for the spring rolls, Gordon for the sausages, and Guy for the cookies. Thanks to the extra hands who helped things move smoothly go to Jimmy, Jeff, and Ray. And to anyone who helped make our second annual another success, THANKS! We’re looking forward to next year!

On the agenda: September

CAMOUFLAGED MODEL NIGHT: This is another one of our theme nights. All you have to do is bring something in that’s in a camo paint scheme. Simple as that. Be prepared to maybe tell the group a couple words on your work.

SWAP NIGHT: Need some space? Have stuff you would like to part with? Bring in goodies to trade or sell to the September meeting. It’s also a good idea to bring some cash. You never know when someone might bring in that grail kit you’ve been looking for and there’s no tab at this bar!

THEME FOR DECEMBER 2007

The next theme contest “WE MEAN BUSINESS,” will be honoring the memory of founding member Bert Berg. He’s remembered fondly as being a business man, first and foremost. With that in mind, the sponsors (Frank C, Russ H, Jimmy M, Frank T, and your humble narrator) are bringing a theme contest all about PRODUCT PLACEMENT to the BPMS in December. Does anything else scream out capitalism more than the Christmas Season? With that, we’re asking the members to build something showing product placement. It can be real, eg: a jumbo jet with some markings from some airline, a race-car with sponsor labels, or you can invent something. We encourage the use of imagination! Since we are in the beginning stages, we may yet come up with some special awards, let’s say, for ingenuity. If you have any questions, feel free to contact any of the sponsors, we’ll be happy to assist!

Speicher Update - September 2007

The contributions for July and August kept up the momentum established in May and June! Thanks to everyone for continuing to keep the troops in mind when looking at your personal “warehouse in the basement” and on trips to the hobby shop, the dollar store, and home improvement stores.

Photos from the 3rd Quarter Contest

All photos from the 3rd Quarter Contest are now up!

http://gmobile17.blogspot.com/2007/09/bpms-2007-contest-night-3rd-quarter.html#links


Quick links to 8/17/2007 Contest Night 2nd Quarter by member's name and model.

• Jeff E. - Klingon Sabre
• Gordon C. - M1A1HA
• Hugh A. - P-47D-11
• Frank C. - F-5G Brazilian AF
• Phil B - 1900 Packard, 1902 Ford, 1903 Cadillac, 1908 Stanley, Model T. Ford, 1915 Stutz, 1935 Chrysler, 1936 Cord
• Bobby P. - Babel Fish
• J. Irwin - Pteranodon
• J. Irwin - Type XXI Sub
• Ray K. - HIMS. Kumano
• J. Irwin - Rommel - North Africa
• J. Irwin - SGT-Major Africa Corp
• J. Irwin - Japanese Naval Pilot
• Don I. - Tachikoma
• Bobby P. - UFO
• Ralph R. - F-18F Super Bug
• Dan M. - Shermans
• M. Crescenzo - U.S.S. Montrose, INJ Mayan, INJ Choltai
• J. Irwin - FLAK 38 Quad
• J. Irwin - LVT2 (Tarawa)
• Kevin B. - M36 GMC

Theme contest alert!!!

It’s Almost September Already?!?!?!?!

Before you know it December will be knocking on the door and the theme contest will be upon us! Remember, the December meeting is usually on the second Friday, which will be the 14th. Will you be ready? Now is a great time to get started for…

WE MEAN BUSINESS!!!

“WE MEAN BUSINESS” will be a theme contest honoring the memory of founding member Bert Berg. He’s remembered fondly as being a business man, first and foremost. With that in mind, the sponsors (Frank C, Russ H, Jimmy M, Frank T, and your humble narrator) are bringing a theme contest all about PRODUCT PLACEMENT to the BPMS in December. Does anything else scream out capitalism more than the Christmas Season? With that, we’re asking the members to build something showing product placement. It can be real, eg: a jumbo jet with some markings from some airline, a race-car with sponsor labels, or you can invent something. We encourage the use of imagination! Since we are in the beginning stages, we may yet come up with some special awards, let’s say, for ingenuity. If you have any questions, feel free to contact any of the sponsors, we’ll be happy to assist! Here's an imaginative piece from this year's IPMS Nationals:

Photo Cred:

http://gamerabaenre.com/ipms_nats_07.htm

Cape Cod Model Show Cancelled!!!

It is with much regret I have to announce that the Cape Cod Scale Modelers Association has cancelled our 16th Annual Model Show, slated to be held on September 23rd, 2007.

Many factors have led to this difficult decision, from a lack of vendors and sponsors for the show, to the diminished support of individuals and the state of the hobby in general.

We will take this time off to regroup and reexamine the state of the hobby, fine-tune our organization where required and hopefully come back with an annual event that we all can enjoy again.

Thank you, Jeffrey S. Harper
Vice President, CCSMA

Region 1 News Flash 08-17-07

This just in from the home office. Sounds interesting and fun!! I know a few Region 1 folks that could do quite well in submitting something!!

Please share this with the members of your chapter.

I don't know how many of you subscribe to C&D but they run an annual "Readers' 10 Best" issue where they give out prizes for reader submissions. These change every year, but this year they are looking for photos of the best Model Car Collection. You can win a prize and get your 15 minutes of fame. Surely within IPMS there are a couple of members with, shall we say, oversized model car collections (and Mark Gustavson's museum should win outright).

Talk this up amongst your fellow members and at chapters if possible - could be some great publicity for us.

Here's the link to the contest and how to submit:

http://www.caranddriver.com/bestcars/13415/enter-our-10best-readers-contest.html

Semper Fi
Doug

Photos of the member’s models from 7/20/2007

BPMS 7/20/2007 Member's Works Index

Thanks to Gordon!

Bulletin: August, 2007

T H E
M I N U T E S

by Bobby the Blue

July was great despite it being the historically lowest attended meetings during the year. We had 25 members and two guests bringing in 12 models.

JULY MEETING!!!

RED, WHITE, & BLUE THEME NIGHT: This theme didn’t go over as well as some of the others. Matt was the only one who brought something in that fit the bill, a Gundam Ground Pounder!

FAVORITE MODEL NIGHT: This activity worked out a lot better. Several members brought in models that they loved and told the group why!

NEW MEMBER: After coming in for his three meetings and showing us some armor, the group voted in Fernando C.! We expect to see many great works from this Brooklyn-ite in the future!

Welcome to the fold!

HELLO LOU! I think many members were pleasantly surprised to see Lou at the meeting. You probably know him from Gateway / Ace Hobbies in the city. We hope to see him on a regular basis at the meetings. You know what that means, bring cash as you never know what goodies he might have!

On the agenda: August

CONTEST NIGHT – 3RD QTR 2007: This is third installment of the BPMS Annual contest. That’s the regular one with six categories and the members fill out ballots for their favorites on the tables. Bring in your work that hasn’t been in the annual contest yet to compete! Rack up the votes!

SUMMER BBQ: Last year was the first BPMS BBQ. It was a lot of fun, but we had to fine-tune the activity. We had to push up the price to $5 this year. Last year the $3 per person didn’t cover the food that was devoured, not to mention the display of gluttony. At this point we’re going with $5 a head (which is still slightly up in the air as this goes into print) and we will have officers supervising a fair distribution of food (2 burgers, 2 dogs) amongst the members.

THEME FOR DECEMBER 2007

The next theme contest “We Mean Business,” will be honoring the memory of founding member Bert Berg. He’s remembered fondly as being a business man, first and foremost. With that in mind, the sponsors (Frank C, Russ H, Jimmy M, Frank T, and your humble narrator) are bringing a theme contest all about PRODUCT PLACEMENT to the BPMS in December. Does anything else scream out capitalism more than Christmas? With that, we’re asking the members to build something showing product placement. It can be real, eg: a jumbo jet with some markings from some airline, a race-car with sponsor labels, or you can invent something. We encourage the use of imagination! Since we are in the beginning stages, we may yet come up with some special awards, let’s say, for ingenuity. If you have any questions, feel free to contact any of the sponsors, we’ll be happy to assist!

Accident at Oshkosh.

From Joe T:

Pics:
http://flickr.com/photos/lscan/sets/72157601065523576/show/

and a vid:
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/id/2860912733

Region 1 Update 8-13-07

From the RC:

Greetings,
I hope everyone is having a great summer. The weather's been good, vacation even better, what's not to like? Now on to all the news.

With the fall show season coming up, I've attached the latest, greatest version of the Region 1 Event List. I've added the few 08 shows that have been approved so far. If your event isn't listed, contact me. A more up to date list will be made available as this year draws to a close. Wait for it!!

I also want to pass along that the popular Mini Meetings will be taking place again this fall. Each chapter should think about sending an emissary to one of the meetings. This year the two events will be the Mid Hudson event, 20 October for the western and central portions of the region. And at Baycon, 4 November for the eastern end, and those that missed the Mid Hudson event. My many thanks to my hosts IPMS Bay Colony, and IPMS Mid Hudson for allowing me to host these meetings at their events. The ground rules will be the same as last time, as informal as possible, I'll bring a list of topics, and you bring anything you'd like to talk about related to IPMS, the region, or whatever. My basic agenda will be the same for both meetings or, you could contact me beforehand to get your item on the agenda. The exact times and locations will be announced at the event.

Rechartering will commence in October. I know everyone has been judiciously maintaining their fact sheets!! They'll make rechartering easy smooth as a gravy sandwich, IF everything is up to date. I'd like to remind everyone to check your membership and make sure all your chapters IPMS members are listed. If you have members that are also members of other chapters, find out which they list as their home chapter. They should only be listed on the fact sheet belonging to their
"home chapter", and not each one they belong to. Doing this will aid Dick in speeding up the process, and make this information easier to monitor in the future. Let me know if anyone has any questions, or needs a fact sheet.

The IPMS election is still ongoing, and is rapidly winding down so this will be the last reminder to cast a ballot. And the Nationals will be gearing up in Orange County CA shortly. I assume all that are going already have hotel and registration covered. Good luck and have fun to
all that are going. Next year the show will be back on the east coast in
Virginia Beach. Information for that one will become available after OC is in the book.

That's my story, and I'm stickin' to it!! See y'all at the fall shows, and at the Mini Meetings!!

Semper Fi
Doug Hamilton
RC-1

BPMS listed on Newsday.com!

Thanks to Matt for motivating us to get into the paper!

http://www.exploreli.com/entertainment/localguide/575979,0,5884449.event

Bulletin: July 2007

THE MINUTES

by Bobby the Blue

June kept the wave going. We had 32 members and one guest bringing in 17 models mostly for the theme contest. There were also a couple tables of old models in the original boxes on display as well.

JUNE MEETING!!!

PIZZA NIGHT: Pizza night usually has members coming out from hiding, and we got to see some faces we haven’t seen in a while. The funny part was that a lot of usual faces weren’t there to partake on the treats. That’s okay, the rest of the group took up some slack.

THEME CONTEST NIGHT: VINTAGE 1965 This was the first theme contest of the year. The “Top Three” were Jimmy’s Stalin Tank, Hugh’s P-40B, and Frank C’s Nike Rocket. Others awarded were: Frank T., Jeff, Israel, Phil, Don, Dan, Kevin, and your humble narrator.
And now a word from our sponsor…

Thanks to the fellows from the BPMS for allowing me, a non-member, to sponsor a theme contest. I enjoyed seeing what kits were brought in both built and boxed. From the selection it was clear how diversified the plastic model field was back in the mid-50s to mid-60s. We saw tanks, planes (both military and civilian), missiles, figures, educational kits, and ships. Also, bear in mind that these kits were made here in America not overseas as most models are today. To those who received awards (both plastic and paper), a brief explanation of the design is in order. Having a year to prepare, I did research into the styles popular as outlined by the theme. The company logos were all chosen from kits and magazines from the era; scanned and turned into engraved images. All the typestyles were from websites specializing in 1950s era lettering. On the three engraved awards, the choice of colors was also deliberate, drawing from the use of pastel colors popular in the late 1950s. For those interested, I used four books in helping me layout the awards:

Hine, Thomas Populuxe Alfred A. Knopf New York 1986 ISBN 0-394-54593-1

Though now out of print, Populuxe is an excellent introduction into the popular designs of the 1950s.

Heimann, Jim ed. All-American Ads 50s Taschen New York 2001 ISBN 3-8228-1158-0

A huge book full of advertisements from all aspects of American life: food, clothing, furnishings, industry, entertainment and technology.

Waggoner, Susan It’s a Wonderful Christmas The Best of the Holidays 1940-1965 Stewart,
Tabori & Chang New York 2004 ISBN 1-58479-327-9

This seasonal book looks at Christmas traditions their origins and how they were represented in post-WWII American culture.

Yenne, Bill Going Home to the Fifties Last Gasp San Francisco 2002 ISBN 0-86719-643-2

A charming book looking at the Fifties as a unique time in American culture, one never duplicated since. The author is best known for his books on aerospace.

Finally, my choice of a vintage figure to exhibit was not random. Figures reached the apex of their popularity during the first half of the 1960s chiefly due to Aurora Plastics of West Hempstead, LI. Many of their kits have been re-issued numerous times over the past 40+ years. In fact, the demise of Polar Lights in 2005 has seen two new ‘garage kit’ companies appear this year. Moebius Models (www.moebiusmodels.com) has already re-created Aurora’s “Dr. Jekyll as Mr. Hyde” model kit and has plans for the following:

The Seaview from “Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea”. This is a huge 39” newly-tooled styrene model.

The Voyager from the animated TV series “Fantastic Voyage” This is an exact re-creation of the rare Aurora kit from the late 1960s.

Jungle Swamp from Aurora’s early 1970s “Prehistoric Scenes” line. Never re-issued by Revell/Monogram and hard to find complete, it could be the first in a line of dinosaur kits.

Rommel’s Rod The popular but rare Monogram show car kit is being re-tooled under the direction of its creator Tom Daniels.

Captain Action Aurora’s 1/6th scale model of the popular Ideal Toy Co. action figure is due out this year.

Monarch Models (www.monarchmodels.net) is start-up company determined to produce kits in the vintage 1960s Aurora style. The first kit is “Nosferatu” sculpted in 1/8th scale by Jeff Yagher with box art and instructions by Gary Makatura know for his “What If” Aurora fantasy boxes produced in the 1990s. Their second kit announced is “The Ghost of Castel Mare” a kit designed to complement Aurora’s “The Forgotten Prisoner of Castel Mare”. The third kit announced last month is an early 1960s moon suit similar to the one pictured on this cover of LIFE magazine.

As you can see, with re-issues, re-creations and new kits designed to evoke the Golden Age of plastic modeling the spirit of that era is still with us today more than four decades later.
~Ed

On the agenda: July

RED, WHITE, & BLUE THEME NIGHT: This is another theme night, not for prizes, but for the fun of it. Build something that reminds you of the USA in some way, Show us your stars and stripes! Be prepared to tell the group a couple words about what you bring in.

FAVORITE MODEL NIGHT: Bring in your favorite model, built or unbuilt. BE prepared the tell the group why this model has a special spot in your heart!

THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE ON JULY 20TH!!!

THEME CONTEST FOR DECEMBER 2007

Details for the December theme contest “WE MEAN BUSINESS,” which will be honoring the memory of founding member Bert Berg, will be forthcoming. We have sponsors and are ready to roll!

A Request for Spare Parts: As part of my current project I am looking for some spare parts. I need the front light fixtures of a modern tank, any modern tank will do although the lights of a Leclerc would be ideal. 1/35 would be perfect too (I don't think 1/72 tanks have those lights moulded as separate parts). If anyone has these parts available they can contact me via email and we can arrange the swap/purchase. Thanks! ~Fernando

SUPERMAN

The Man - The Myth - The Model Kit

By Ed D.

The story is that of legend: On the distant planet Krypton a brave scientist named Jor-El tried to convince the rulers of his city that their red giant star Rao would soon explode destroying their planet. Unable to persuade them and forbidden to leave the doomed world, he built a small spaceship where he placed his infant son Kal-El and launched him into deep space headed towards a small, primitive planet called Earth.

Landing near the city of Smallville, Kansas in the heartland of America, the boy is discovered by Jonathan and Martha Kent who adopt the orphan unaware of his unique heritage. Raised on the Kent family farm and instilled with strong morals the boy begins to display amazing abilities as he grows. He can move with incredible speed, leap higher and higher (eventually flying), lift enormous weights and becomes impervious to injury. In addition to super-hearing, he can generate beams of intense infra-red radiation from his eyes and see in different wavelengths beyond the visible spectrum.

Leaving the farm upon reaching adulthood, Clark Kent, moves to Metropolis becoming a reporter for the Daily Planet. However, when there is a situation that requires powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal men, he dons a bright blue suit with red boots and cape and emblazoned on his chest is his Kryptonian family crest (which resembles the letter ‘S’) becoming Earth’s greatest champion…Superman!

Over the years Superman has battled numerous enemies such as brilliant scientist Lex Luthor, the Parasite, Metallo, the Toyman, an imperfect duplicate of himself named Bizzaro, Mr. Mxyzptlk an imp from the 5th Dimension, as well as extraterrestrial villains such as Brainiac, Darkseid and Mongul. Among his friends are fellow reporter Lois Lane, childhood sweetheart Lana Lang, photographer and cub reporter for the Daily Planet Jimmy Olsen and its editor Perry White.

Superman’s only weakness is kryptonite – radioactive fragments of his home world that come in a variety of colors. The most powerful kinds are green kryptonite which can sicken and kill him, red which causes physical and psychological mutations, and gold which removes his powers permanently.

Jerry Seigel and Joe Shuster created the idea of a ‘superman’ in 1933 with several re-imaginings and re-writes over the next six years as they shopped around to several publishers during the Great Depression. Finally purchased by Malcolm Wheeler-Nicolson the character first appeared in his new magazine Action Comics #1 dated June 1938. The following year saw a second comic book published simply entitled “Superman”. Over the next seven decades, the media in which Superman has appeared has grown and expanded. A daily newspaper strip started in 1939 and ran until 1966. A radio drama debuted on February 12, 1940 and lasted eleven years. Seventeen short animated cartoons were produced between 1941 and 1943 utilizing the voice of actor Bud Collyer, the same man who portrayed him on radio. A live-action movie serial was released in 1948 with actor Kirk Alyn with a second serial following in 1950. Having been extremely popular in comic books, radio and movie serials, it was inevitable that the new medium of television would soon see The Man of Steel. A series was commissioned in 1951 starring actor George Reeves. It aired from 1952-1958 with its 104 episodes (both in black and white and color) being re-run for decades. An animated series produced by Filmation ran from 1966-1969 called The New Adventures of Superman with Bud Collyer reprising his role. Yet another series, Super Friends animated by Hanna-Barbera was aired from 1973-1984 with stories containing various other DC Comics superheroes.

Superman returned to movie theatres in December 1978, with director Richard Donner's Superman:The Movie starring Christopher Reeve. Three sequels followed, Superman II (1980), Superman III (1983) and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987). In 1988 Superman returned to television in the Ruby Spears animated series Superman, and also in Superboy, a live action series which ran until 1992. Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman premiered on television in 1993, starring Dean Cain as Superman and Teri Hatcher as Lois Lane. The series ran until 1997. Superman: The Animated Series, produced by Warner Bros. ran from 1996 until 2000. In 2001 the television series Smallville premiered, focusing on the adventures of Clark Kent (played by actor Tom Welling) as a teenager before he becomes Superman. Superman was also a regular character in both the “Justice League” and “Justice League Unlimited” animated series on The Cartoon Network. In 2006 Bryan Singer directed Superman Returns, starring Brandon Routh as Superman. The film was intended as a sequel to the first two Christopher Reeve movies with numerous tributes to them (including using footage of Marlon Brando as Jor-El) as well as nods to the 1950s television series. A sequel, tentatively titled “The Man of Steel” is scheduled for release in 2009.

Aurora Plastics’ 1/8th scale model kit of Superman was released in 1964 (as kit #462) and was the first based upon comic book superheroes. It was a brilliant follow-up to their enormously successful line of monster models. Sculpted by Bill Lemon and molded in light blue plastic, the kit (along with their Batman, Robin and Superboy model kits) was heavily advertised in comic books which helped increase sales. It remained in their catalogue until 1970. In 1974, Aurora re-issued several of its comic book characters in their “Comic Scenes” line. Each model kit came with a comic book in which one or two pages acted as a backdrop for the model itself. Two modifications were made to the mold however: the engraved “S” on Superman’s chest and cape were removed in favor of stickers and his small nameplate was eliminated. The kit was now molded in a brilliant azure blue plastic.

When Aurora went out of business in 1977, many of its injection molds were sold to Monogram including Superman. One year later, Monogram would re-issue the kit (now #6301) in dark blue plastic. It would be produced until 1979.

MPC re-issued the model by contracting Monogram to produce bagged kits which they boxed under their name in a series called “Super Powers” that included Aurora’s Batman model too. The kit (now #1-1701) was released in 1984 with a re-sculpted head that was oversized and crudely done compared to the original Bill Lemon sculpt of twenty years prior.

The most recent incarnation of this 40+ year old model is a 1999 issue by Revell as kit #3635 in white plastic. Unfortunately, though the box lid states “RETRO CLASSIC! This re-issued model kit contains all the plastic model parts as they originally appeared in 1964.” the model inside still has the modifications made to it in 1974 and 1984. For purists, vintage models (built and un-built) as well as original parts and resin castings of them can be found on the internet through online auction sites or modeling sites that specialize in Aurora models.

Recommendations:
Daniels, Les Superman: The Complete History Chronicle Books, San Francisco 1998, ISBN 0-8118-2162-5
Grossman, Gary Superman: Serial to Cereal Popular Library, New York 1977, ISBN 0-445-04054-8
Kidd, Chip and Spear, Geoff Mythology: The DC Comics Art of Alex Ross Pantheon Books, New York 2005, ISBN 0-375-71462-6
Waid, Mark and Ross, Alex Kingdom Come DC Comics 1997, ISBN 1-56389 330-4

The two serials, vintage 1940s animated short films, and six complete seasons of George Reeves “Adventures of Superman” are available on DVD. All four of Christopher Reeve’s films are on DVD, including a new director’s cut of “Superman II” as originally envisioned by Richard Donner. It is far superior to the theatrical release credited to director Richard Lester. There is an excellent documentary entitled Look! Up in the Sky! The Amazing Story of Superman narrated by actor Kevin Spacey who played Lex Luthor in the most recent film. Three seasons of Superman: The Animated Series as well as Justice League (two seasons) and Justice League Unlimited (also two seasons) are all currently on DVD. Finally, six years of Smallville are available as is the 2006 film Superman Returns.

Oil Wash Technique

By Hugh A.

At meetings, I’ve been asked about my process for applying a wash to panel lines on airplanes. My technique is based on a demonstration by Eric, a former BPMS member back in the day when we met at Floyd Bennett in the National Park’s Department building. This description is tailored to airplane applications, but it should be adaptable to most categories of kits. Note that this technique assumes that the model has been gloss-coated with an acrylic paint, as the naphtha in the lighter fluid will not attack acrylic in the amounts used in a wash.

The supplies are simple: artist oils in various shades, lighter fluid, some empty paint bottles, and a calligraphy pen (Figure 1). I purchased the artist oil paints at various art supply or craft stores, selecting shades that complement the usual camouflage colors of grays, greens, browns, and light blue and blue-grey. Ray Umber, Burnt Sienna, and Payne’s Grey are good basic colors that work well on a variety of color schemes. White and black are used to lighten or darken the basic colors. I never use straight black as the effect is too harsh for my tastes. The lighter fluid is left over from the long ago days when I used to smoke cigars, so I can’t say where I would buy it today; perhaps a drug store. The calligraphy pen goes back further than the lighter fluid - to my 8th grade art class (it’s true - modelers never throw anything away that could remotely be useful in the hobby). I would expect that the pens are still available in any art store. I’ve tried a drafting pen, but I find the straight tip of the calligraphy pen provides more control, ensuring that the wash mixture flows down the panel lines and not across the finish of the plane.

Figure 1

As mentioned above, the model should be gloss-coated before using the wash. I use Polly S clear gloss, but any other acrylic should do. Even though the model was probably gloss-coated prior to applying the decals, it’s wise to apply a thin gloss coat over the decals in order to seal them, thus ensuring that the wash will not run under a decal. I found that using the wash after the flat coat made it more difficult to remove wash from unwanted areas.

The process starts with squirting some lighter fluid into a paint bottle, enough to fill the bottle to a depth of approximately three-eighths to half an inch. Add a very, very small dab of the base color - Burnt Sienna, for example - to the lighter fluid and stir. Dip the pin in the mixture and first try it on a paper towel to judge how dark it is. If it appears dark, add more lighter fluid. When applying it to the airplane, apply the wash first to an engraved line representing a control surface hinge line, e.g., the leading edge of an aileron or elevator. These lines are naturally the darker lines on the plane and will tolerate a wash that is too dark. Just touch the pen to the panel line and let the wash flow along the panel line. In 1/72 scale, I feel that I’ve achieved the correct density when I have to look at the other, unwashed surface to determine that there’s a difference. But this is a personal judgment call and you may want a darker effect. I usually do one entire surface, such as an upper wing, than take a piece of old nylon hose and rub off any excess wash that may have pooled alongside a panel line. There will usually be a slight “shadow” remaining where any excess was removed, which if subtle enough, adds to the wash effect. If it proves to be too dark and too stubborn for the cloth, use a pencil eraser to remove the excess. When washing the bottom of an aircraft with light-colored undersurfaces, mix up another wash using something like Payne’s Grey and a lot of white. The model will be a mixture of finish textures by the time you are through, but the flat coat will heal all! Remember, it’s usually a subtle effect you’re after, so err on the side of caution. It’s always better to have to apply another wash than to try and lighten lines that are too dark. Where darker applications are warranted, such as link chutes or engine cowling openings, use a darker mix. Finally, the mix will start to clump in a very short time, so plan on doing the wash in one day or be prepared to mix some more.

[1] The good news is that lighter fluid seems to have a shelf life of forever, based on my personal experience - it’s been twenty years since I smoked cigars.

Speicher Update - June 2007

WOW! The contributions for May and June were literally over the top in that they were spilling over the boxes, even though I brought a much bigger box in June! Thanks to everyone for their whole-hearted support.

~Hugh

June Meeting Pics are up!

Photos from June Meeting are all up and on display!

BPMS
6/15/2007 Member's Works Index

Bulletin: June 2007

A couple last minute words regarding the theme contest:

"In addition to those members who are assembling a model kit that fits into the "Vintage 1965" theme and its guidelines, if anyone wishes, they may bring a vintage, unbuilt kit for display. This way, more guys can participate and not have to worry about building a classic kit they would rather remain 'mint in box'. [In addition, feel free to bring in your boxes and instructions for your built ups as well as any works that weren’t completed in time. ~B2] I look forward to seeing what you guys come up with!"

T H E M I N U T E S

by Bobby the Blue

May kept the wave going. We had 32 members and one guest bringing in 30 models. We had some serious entry numbers like armor like we haven’t seen in a while.

MAY MEETING!!!

CONTEST NIGHT 2Q07: This turned out to be quite a contest. A lot of great work was competing in the various categories that night. That’s what we love to see!

PARTS BOX NIGHT: Parts! Members brought in parts, and others got to bring some home. Thanks guys!

SWAP NIGHT: People always bring stuff in to sell, but the amount brought in just seems to increase when I mention a swap night in the bulletin. Good stuff!

On the agenda: June

PIZZA NIGHT: This is the one activity that brings the members out of the woodworks. Pizza Night! A BPMS tradition for decades. There are a couple conditions: members shouldn’t bring guests for this activity, and you must be up to date on your membership dues. Be sure to check with the trez. No Dues? No pizza for you!

THEME CONTEST NIGHT: VINTAGE 1965 This will be the first theme contest of 2007 and our first theme contest sponsored by a non-member, our awards master Ed Dietrich! I think the least we can do to repay his benevolence by building lots and building well for such an easy theme to build for! Who doesn’t have some old goodies in the stacks and piles? These are the words direct from our sponsor:

A modeler can submit a kit of any subject in any scale but it must be a kit that was available from 1955 - 1965. The idea is that you could walk into a hobby shop (or Five and Dime) back then and spot this kit on the shelf any time in that decade; an era which many consider to be the "Golden Age" of plastic kits.

The kit can be a re-release too, for example a Revell "Special Subjects Program" edition from 1997 of a kit originally produced in 1960 is OK.

However, I ask that modelers resist enhancing the vintage model with too many modern day doodads like resin and photo-etched parts, things you would not be using in 1965. You can add a few but don't go nuts with aftermarket goodies. Scratchbuilding parts is OK though, since you could have done that 40+ years ago.

Modelers can choose from these manufacturers: Aurora, AMT, Revell, Monogram, PYRO, Jo-Han, Airfix, Hawk, Precision, Lindberg, Palmer and Renwal - all companies operating back then. I already have an award design in mind and will make all of them myself. (Probably even the honorable mentions too!)

Modern supplies such as PAINT are perfectly fine to use. Feel free to contact Ed directly if you have any questions.

June Meeting will be on the 15th!!!

Early this month!

IPMS National Election - Please pass along to your Chapter members

The Election of IPMS/USA Officers for the next two years has begun. Please vote!

For the position of Historian/Publications Director, the Journal staff would like to strongly endorse the incumbent, James Woody.

Jim has played an integral role in the transformation of the Journal over the past year and half. He was present at the very first meetings about the redesigned Journal. He has been a powerful advocate for the ideas and goals of the Journal staff. He has made sure all financial, material and content needs have been met, and expanded the color content of the magazine. When the Journal was prevented from receiving review items from other sources, Jim provided them at his own expense. Even as he’s helped expand and improve the Journal, he has still managed to bring the Journal to your mailboxes under budget.

If you enjoy the direction the Journal has taken and wish to see it continue to improve, you owe it to yourself to vote for Jim Woody for Historian/Publications Director.

You will find a ballot and all candidate bios in the new issue of the Journal now arriving in your mailbox. The Journal staff encourages you to read the statements of all of the candidates then cast your vote. You may vote via the big yellow ballot in the Journal or on-line at: www.ipmsusa.org.

Thank you,

Chris Bucholtz, Nat Richards & John Heck

Region 1 Update: 06/08/2007

Hi everyone,

Time to share some more news from the home office, and a few other tidbits.

The biggest news is that the election for officers is now happening. There's a paper ballot in the new issue of the Journal that should be on your doorstep anytime now. You can also vote electronically on the IPMS web site. One new thing you'll notice this time around is a box for each office offering a chance to abstain, yet still cast a ballot. There are a few offices being contested and a few running unopposed. The important thing is to cast your ballot. Candidate bios are on the web site, as well as in the current Journal issue. There are some very fine people running for office, and all have their vision of how IPMS should proceed into the future. They're all committed to the Society; otherwise, they wouldn't be running for important offices. I won't suggest to anyone how to vote, because I believe the position of RC should be somewhat nonpolitical, but will strongly urge every IPMS member to cast a ballot!!

On another matter, I received this from Dick Montgomery the other day.
A discount policy:
What is says:
IPMS/USA will honor a $ 1.00 discount per chapter member when said chapter elects to renew/pay for all IPMS/USA chapter members, plus a minimum of 3 new member/rejoins. Rejoins being defined as any former member whose membership has been expired by 1 year or more. These memberships must be forwarded to the National Office with a renewal/new member card for each along with 1 chapter check for the total amount.

What it means:
Some clubs pay the annual IPMS/USA membership fee for their club members.
This discount structure is designed to allow for a small discount to that club.
Please note:
1. One check for the total amt., that being a chapter check.
2. Each person being renewed or joining as a new member must submit a Member Application form..... a simple list of names will not be acceptable.
3. Re-read the definition for a “rejoin”. If the former member is not sure of how long he’s been awol please contact the Office Manager or your Regional Coordinator.

The other thing that came in to pass along is a fee increase for rechartering. It reads like this;
Announcement regarding increase in Charter Renewal Fee:
The annual fee for charter renewal shall be $20.00 for the 2008 charter cycle.
For more information, please contact the Director of Local Chapters at dlc@ipmsusa.org.

Back to me!! Please make a note of this increase, and make your rechartering payment accordingly. And please don't complain to me about the increase, I didn't have anything to do with it!!

I haven't gotten the final report from our Noreastcon hosts yet, but know the event lost money this year. This makes two years in a row that the event has lost money. One of the main reasons was not enough sponsorships were received. We as a region need to do better in the future to ensure our premier event remains at the top rung of the regional ladder. Moreover, this includes sponsoring a category at the regional. There were too many chapters that didn’t step up to the plate and answer the call. I guess I’ll have to start harping on everyone earlier in the process next year. So please, consider sponsoring a trophy package at next years Noreastcon!! It’s our event, and we all need to support it.

The IPMS Nationals are rapidly approaching. This year the BIG SHOW will be in Orange County California, right across the street from Disneyland. Just think, you could spend one day with a mouse, then spend the next day at a modelers Disneyland, the vendor room at the Nationals!! What a concept!! I won’t be making the trip this year, as we’re having a huge family reunion in Colorado around the same time, but am planning to go back to Virginia Beach next year. I hope everyone from Region 1 that goes has a great time, and does well in bringing home an award.

I’ll end this most mercifully now, by saying, please share this with the Officers and members of your chapter. Until next time……….

Semper Fi
Doug H.
RC-1

IPMS Election

All,

The online election ballot for the 2007 National Officers Election has been activated.
You can view the Candidate's bios at:

http://www.ipmsusa.org/Election2007/Officers2007.htm

The election Log-In page is at:

http://www.ipmsusa.org/Election2007/ElectionLogin.asp

Remember you need to activate your IPMS website account (Discussion Forum). Any problems contact Bob Hester.

PLEASE VOTE!!!

More to follow soon!!
Semper Fi
Doug
RC-1