I took over the Advance the Colors Dealer Coordinator position after Darryl had to step down due to a promotion at work and family obligations. After taking over the position, I was also promoted, so I was not able to devote the amount of time I had hoped to this job. I apologize to the dealers for any confusion there may have been this year.

Overall, I think things went fairly well. Twenty-seven tables were sold, bringing a little over $1,600 into the coffers. We had several dealers who were no calls/no shows, which is okay, since I actually sold more tables than I think we had room for. At least we know for next year. I think most of the dealers did all right, and we certainly appreciate their support. By the way, David van Hoose deserves the thanks of everyone. Without him, I don't think there would have been a convention this year. Jack Shaw and Bud Hunter also deserve a "well done."

Going back to the dealers for a minute. I know this comment does not apply to everyone (some were spending money quite freely), so do not be offended if it does not apply to you. If you want quality dealers to support the con (and help pay for the hall), you must support the dealers. Dealers paid $60 per table, so I paid $120 for two tables.

This means that I must sell $300 worth of product at full retail to just break even on my table cost. Most dealers give the 10% HMGS Great Lakes discount, so the break even figure goes even higher. The dealers will four tables automatically go to $600-plus to break even on table costs. This figure doesn't even touch the room and food costs of the dealers from out of town/state. Dealers set up to make a profit and pay the bills. It is a business. I'm not asking you to buy something from every dealer. The dealers present may not even have what you want. What I am saying is, don't pass an item up at a convention because you can get it a couple of dollars cheaper on the internet, or because you're not getting it for "nothing."

I had one guy offer me $25 for a $62 product. I told him I had $37 in the product, which was already marked at a fair discount. He replied that his $25 offer still stood! I wonder how long a vendor would stay in business if he lost money on every sale. No sour grapes, I covered expenses and made a small profit, part of which went immediately to Robert Bowling (RLBPS) and Ben Pope (Vatican Enterprises). I believe some gamers must think the dealers are just a bunch of guys with nothing better to do on their weekends besides sell them stuff at give-away prices. Oh well, off my soap box.

Once again, thanks to all of the dealers who attended. The convention would not be what it is without your support.