Capital Area Modelers Society

Michael B, Dick D, George E, Tony F, Steve F, Steve H, Bill H, Chris K, Keith L, Chris L, Jason M, Mike O, Reedis T, and John W were present.  We welcomed Dwight Mains as our guest.

Dick reported the Ray Harryhausen exhibit at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum is worth the trip.  He reminded everyone about the Silent Auction and medal stands, with proceeds going to the treasury.  He reviewed upcoming events in April: IPMS Roscoe Turner Indianapolis Invitational, April 5 and Lorain County IPMS Spring 2025, April 13. Chris K noted that Lorain County is a show, not competition.

As a Vice-president report, Tony described the Tim Ridout Challenge, June 14.  C.A.M.S. will be responsible for running the raffle.  He recommended bringing kits to donate for the raffle at the May meeting.  Chris L noted all proceeds from registration and raffle are divided among the four participating clubs and that awards are by popular vote, so the more C.A.M.S. members who attend, the greater benefit to our club.

Dick announced that our Treasurer Chris L has been appointed Region 4 Coordinator.  Chris gave an update of our current balance, and stated he is willing to hand over treasurer office to anyone, so he can focus on R4 responsibilities.

Chris L and Chris K gave updates on Midwest Freeze Frame in Ft. Wayne (much better than last year), and Detroit Area Auto Modelers Show.  Those who participated in the Shoufu-Con said they visited with a number of people, even referring some to IPMS chapters in the Detroit area.  However, the event size and audience is probably not worth doing again. 

Chris K said there were three members at last month’s “build night.”  It was decided to have the next build night at Tanuki’s Trading Post on Thursday, April 17, 6 – 8 p.m.  Dick reported Tanuki’s has an open build night the second Saturday of each month, 4 – 8 p.m., and C.A.M.S. members are invited to come.  Chris K said Tanuki’s has offered 8’ shelf space for a C.A.M.S. display.  Several expressed interest in adding to a display.  Chris said he would create something describing C.A.M.S.  Dick showed identification cards which can go with the projects.  Chris recommended bringing projects for the display at the May meeting; he will take them to Tanuki’s.

There was discussion whether we could have a display at AFK Games.  Reedis reported they have expanded their merchandise which will be of interest to modelers, including airbrushes and compressors.  Dick said he would speak with them about a possible display.

It was decided to schedule a build night at Lansing Makers Network on Wednesday, May 17.  Dick said he would contact them to include on their calendar.  Michael B reported the Network is looking for new board members and said it’s a great opportunity to strengthen connections.

Dick said Steve F had put him in contact with Capt. Steve Ronan, Army National Guard, in Grand Ledge.  Capt. Ronan is very interested in have C.A.M.S. models in display cases in the dining hall.  He provided an initial list of vehicles and equipment in Grand Ledge.  Several members expressed interest in participating in this project, and Mike O and Steve F agreed to steer the process.

Dick reported we have been given a space at the Ignition Maker Fest (https://ignitionmakerfest.com/), Saturday, May 17, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Impressions 5 museum.  The focus is on robotics, which should draw lots of families with kids.  Other groups present include Lansing Makers Network and U.S.S. Tecumseh.  He suggested having P-39 kits as giveaways.  Michael B said he has a book of paper military models which he can reproduce and make available.  Chris K suggested some miniature Gundam kits, and stated he has access to a pop-up canopy, tables and chairs in a trailer.  Dick passed around a sign-up sheet for participation in the event.

Dick reminded everyone of the Capital City Comic Con, July 11-13, and passed a sign-up sheet to begin scheduling for the event.

He then reported that, based on last month’s discussion, he had been in contact with the Lansing Model Railroad Club about their Lansing Train Show & Sale on Sunday, November 9.  Apparently they have no provision for giving space to clubs such as ours and, if we want participate, we would need to rent a table for $35.  The consensus was that the event is worth the investment and that we should go ahead.  Dick said he would send in our application.

Tony reported planning for the Ft. Wayne Nationals is proceeding with regular meetings.  He said the need for someone with marketing expertise has become evident and asked if anyone in the club has that experience to please contact him.

The rest of the evening was devoted to showing and discussing supplies and techniques for working with clear parts, such as masking, polishing, and gluing.

Our next meeting is Thursday, May 1.  Brad will demonstrate weathering techniques he used on his F-4 build.  The group build P-39s are due to be presented for discussion and judging.