Youch! I've never seen an acronym turn out so prophetic. The HIVIGS project to promote historical miniatures at Origins, nicknamed HOT '99, was launched on a sticky, sweltering Ohio weekend with highs near 100 degrees. Thankfully, the convention center's A/C held!

Looking around, I saw fewer historical miniatures games than last year's HOT '98, and total attendance at Origins seemed down, too. I think, despite the organizers' opinions that July 4th is a good weekend for a gaming convention, it is a bad for those with families (picnics, reunions,etc.). I also feel that HOT'99 missed Pete Panzeri's aggressive and energetic recruiting of game masters.

Last year, Pete had wanted to hand the entire project off to Great Lakes. Neither the board nor any chapter members were willing to take it, though. I accepted the ball, only under condition that Pete remain as a liaison with Origins. So, if there was a backslide (Pete says there wasn't), I take the blame. Don't get me wrong -- there WERE good historical minis events this year! I thank all the GMs who answered my call for help. Their efforts were wonderful. However, I feel I don't hold a candle to Pete's flame when it comes to recruiting.

Nevertheless, Great Lakes signed up about a dozen new members, which is what the whole project is about. I am still excited about HIVIGS' continued presence at Origins. Next year, Origins falls the week AFIFER the holiday (July 13-16, Columbus Convention Center) -- which should bring the family men out! Pete will remain on board, too. Origins'planned changes for next year include moving all miniatures events into the same area, which should help our exposure. There will be a single person in charge of miniatures events (who will not be an Andon/WOTC employee). All game masters will coordinate their events through him. This will hopefully cut down on the "no-show GMs" -- a problem that increased this year.

However, I am stepping down from any official role with the project. Editing "The Herald" consumes a lot of my time, and I was dissatisfied with the amount left over for HOT. Since the board has declined involvement, Great Lakes needs a volunteer from the ranks. Yourjob would beto work with Pete and Origins to recruit game masters to run historical events. Origins has proven itself worthwhile to the chapter -- don't let it die because no one wants to help! It interested, contact me via the info on page one.