Well here we are, a couple of conventions and three computer crashes later and I finally have The Herald together. Sorry about being late, but my computer would not cooperate.

The big news, although somewhat dated at this point, is the success of Advance the Colors '96. About forty two events ran with an attendance of 133, so there was plenty of gaming for the attendees. Attendance was a little less than expected, but feedback has been very positive. The convention was profitable, and work has already started on Advance the Colors '97.

I had opportunity to attend COGACon a few weeks ago and had a great time. COGA did a good job. The site was great, has on-site food, and plenty of parking. The Soldiery brought a wide selection of gaming supplies for those of us needing to feed the habit. And, there was a good selection of events, especially some great historical miniatures. Unfortunately some of those events didn't run, because of the lack of historical miniatures gamers. COGACON is definitely a convention worth attending, and I look forward to next years convention.

Now, about this attendance thing, where are you people at? For two and a half years, I've been listening to local historical gamers gripe about the inactivity of area clubs, and boom, two conventions in three weeks, and I don't even see the people that I game with. These conventions can't survive without support. They can't get better, if they can't afford to run. Okay, I'll shut up now.

While at Historicon this past summer, I picked up a magazine called Vae Victis. No matter how you look at it, from content, to photos, to paper quality , it is by far the best gaming magazine that I have ever seen. Its all historical, covers board games, computer games and miniatures; and every issue has a complete game inside my issue had the battle of Abbeville, 1940). There is one small drawback, it is written in French. If you (or your computer) can translate French, it is well worth the $10.00 cover price. For more info contact: On Military Matters, 55 Taylor Terrace, Hopewell, NJ 08525 ph 609-466-2339.

If you are a member of a game club that is open to new members, please send me some information. Several of our new members are looking for people or groups to game with.

There is a possibility of an HMGS minicon in the spring. It would probably be in late April or early May and located in Delaware, Ohio. For more information call Ron Bixel at 614-363-3667.

Once again, my apologies for the newsletter being so late. The Jan/Feb issue will be out about the end of January to allow some time between issues. Submissions should be in by Jan 20th.