What can you expect?
For starters, two types of full sensory overload.
First Type will happen when you walk in and see more than 2000 models on the tables waiting to be judged. Not just any models either, these will include the top-of-the-line, best-of-the-best models built by the best master builders in the USA. And there'll even be some by novice wannabees like me entered too! Your neck will get sore trying to look at everything at once. Fortunately, we will be leaving the model contest room open 24 hours a day for the entire time so that those who wish to take a look at the models during non-peak hours can do so while most of the crowds are gone. The only time the room will be closed to the public is during the judging. And yes, security will be posted in and around the models to insure they're safe overnight. We are modelers after all, and we understand that everyone wants their models kept safe.
The second type will happen when you walk into the massive vendor room. You will feel as if you'd died and gone to modeler's heaven. We currently have a 15 day waiting list for vendor tables since so many people wish to sell there. See more below under the Vendor question.
Can I take photos?
Yes, we have no problem with photos being taken. Everyone who wishes to take photos in the contest room is encouraged to do so. That is another reason we are leaving the room open 24 hours. Anyone wishing to take pics can do so during the late evening hours/early morning hours so that they can take their pictures with minimal interference from any of the crowds that will be there during the daytime hours.
Do you have to be a IPMS member to attend, take photos or enter a contest?
To attend the event, enter the model room or take pictures, you do not need to be an IPMS member. To enter a model into the contest, you must be an IPMS USA member. Don't worry if you get there with the intent to enter and then forgot that you hadn't signed up yet. There will be a table set up where you can sign up for IPMS USA membership, pay the dues, and receive your card right then at the door allowing you to enter your models that same day.
What about vendors and such? Will there be items for sale?
Yes. with a capital YES. As mentioned above, we have a huge room set up for vendors from all over the world to set up and sell their wares in the Largest Hobby Store in the USA during the four days of this event. It will take you at least two days straight to see all that will be offered there. All the big name manufacturers will be coming in, as well as many distributors like Hobby Link Japan, GreatModels and others who'll be offering all the kits, aftermarket parts and decals, tools and supplies from every medium and small manufacturer you know, and some you may not have ever heard of. You will see products there for sale that you may never have believed you'll see.
Now, for further information. When you sign up, you can reserve yourself a spot on any one of the following tour venues that we are providing for no additional charge:
Yanks Air Museum and Planes of Fame.
The NHRA Museum.
Petersen Automotive Museum.
American Society of Military History Armor Museum
We have more venues we are working on arranging tours to as well. Also, as part of your registration, you are entitled to deeply discounted tickets for the family for Disneyland which is a short walk across the street from the Anaheim Marriott Hotel where the Nationals are being held.
Well my friend I do hope that I have answered your questions well enough. If you wish to know anything more, I'm deeply involved in the planning and preparations for this event and will try to keep you posted as time goes on.
For everyone who wishes to fill out your registration cards early for your entries, the online registration is now available.
http://www.ipmsusa2007.org/registration_member.htm
Thanks to everyone who's watching this space; I look forward to meeting all of you at the event!