Well, we are finalizing the last steps in prepartion for the second annual Drums Along the Maumee Historical Miniatures Convention here in Toledo, OH, May 18-19, at the Clarion Hotel. Many, many dealers have been contacted and they are starting to sign on. Events-wise, we only had four Game Masters at this time last year. Today, March 17, WE HAVE FILLED ALL OUR EVENTS! We are full! Amazing and astounding to us!

The Colby's really appreciate all the members who have stepped up to the task of helping run a convention for the members' benefit. The Board of Directors has helped tremendously with timely advice and contacts, making this year's gathering better than last. Our game list has 23 events and we have variety. We will feature: World War II, Early American Frontier Fighting, Seven Years War, Napoleonics, Colonial Africa, War of 1812, Ancients, Modern Armor conflicts, American Civil War and some Age of Sail encounters. (see next page).

What is really good about this year's convention is the sharing of resources, dealer contacts and game masters that we have had with the local Toledo area, Michigan (Detroit, Lansing and Westland), Dayton and South Bend, IN. Today we are laying out table assignments and looking for variety for the Gamer as he comes to this year's convention.

What is still needed? We need YOU, the Member of HMGS Great Lakes who is reading this, to come and share in our efforts in your behalf. When I looked, we have at least Member #425 or so out there. We had less than 100 that came last year to Drums -- we need YOU to plan ahead and come to one of the two Great Lakes Conventions that are held each year. Advance the Colors is held in the Dayton area and we travel there to have fun and to help. Drums is held in Toledo and members from Toledo, Michigan and even Dayton drive up to share. To all you others, ones too busy or who have NEVER gone to a Convention - COME! We need your help continue this yearly gathering of members by you attending.

Some say they didn't come because they did not know about it. Now you do. Some may be afraid they will not fit in or play games very well. Well, most of our events are targetted at first time players. We will have the folks there to show you.

The money paid out for your membership is to help create these demonstrations for all of us to enjoy. We in the Colbys have put more hours into the Hobby than most members. We have played on the average, 45 to 50 times a year for the last 17+ years. That's tons of dead in hundreds of battles! Some of you play once a month, or even less. Come and see what the others do and pick up some ideas, some new lead, and even some new contacts who maybe live near you but you never knew about.

Come and get into the convention picture -- you will be glad that you did.