We have stayed at the Holiday Inn Convention Center for years because we could bring Millie, the Lab. This has changed since acquiring the father in laws “house slipper with eyes” and Skip’s cat. We may have to look into the ECLSTS Show Hotel next year or another facility. We didn’t have any problems, but it seems that was the exception and not the norm. We’ll have to see what shakes out. The Starlight Diner is changing ownership, also. One thing for certain, everything is always subject to change.
I think a lot of us are in that boat. Jean suggested we just go up for the day, which is how we used to do it before we met anyone. I really like the gatherings. Maybe I should try to do more at the show, though it is fun to go around and talk with everyone. Sure didn’t buy much this year; probably about $30 worth.
Like Bob, the Holiday Inn is out for us next year. It’s too bad none of the layouts offer operations - sign up for a 20 minute session and run a train, or something like that. Of course I could run on Ric’s Timesaver/Inglenook, but then no one else would get a chance!
For me it’s just a social event. I haven’t bought anything there in a few years besides a couple of hot dogs and a T-shirt. Plus it’s only about an hour away. I’ve been to every one since it started in Atlantic City in 1998. Back then I was buying the show cars because they were labeled for the show. When they quit labeling them I stopped buying them mainly because they were 1:29 and a different scale then what I model. And AC was the first time I met old “Stumpy” George Thomas. Still miss that guy…
I can’t remember all the people I’ve met since I started going but the ones I do remember are the ones I see there every year. Ric & Jan, Andy Clarke, Jon, Bob, plus the crew Ric drags along, first time I met Fred was at the show. He invited me up to his place and I accepted and thus was born the “American Invasion” which is something else I wouldn’t miss for all the world.
There’s always a couple of new faces there that I can finally put a name to. I usually go up there with a few names I’d like to meet if I run into them stuck in my mind, then there’s the familiar faces I can’t put a name too. But it’s all part of the fun.
BTW Ric, if you need any help setting up, I’ll be glad to help out…
I think this is actually, my 4th year, going to York… The first year was basically, out of couriosity, after hearing so much about it… The second year, was to buy aristo track and get the buy 4, get one for shipping deal… the third year, was to get switches, on the same deal… This year, was for switches, again, plus parts… Some things, you just can’t get anyplace else, but at York…
I went to Perry last year, and although it was a good show, I don’t think I’ll go down there again, as they don’t draw the dealers that York does…
It will be interesting to see what becomes of the Midwest show, in October…
Of course, the most enjoyable time, is spending it with friends, talking, joking, discussing modeling techniques and just having a great time…
I met face to face with Ric and Jan, Ken, Jon and family, Bruce and Jean at the 2007 American Invasion of Ottawa. Had a GREAT time. I was not feeling particularly well and Ric let me sit a(bunch) of whiles. Got to meet Andy and talk about his new house and layout. Took a few pics. When Bob Temper was off getting some rolling stock, a new figure modeler teacher stepped in!
(http://1stclass.mylargescale.com/DonHoward/ECLSTS/2008/tn_IMG_5476.JPG)
