From Scott Mingus. York. PA

Having moved to York, PA, this summer from greater Cleveland, I am amazed and shocked at how much politics drive HMGS East's motivations and actions. Even in some trivial things (which I won't get into) it seems that this august body is more into fighting and bickering than having fun with toy soldiers. I just want to say how much I appreciate Great Lakes. A couple years ago, I joined GL, and said back then how much I felt welcomed into Gl2s membership (like I was truly wanted). Here in the heart of East country (a half hour from the Lancaster Host Resort and East's three conventions), the backbiting and politics are absurd.

I will retain my Great Lakes membership and spend my hobby travel dollars for Origins, ATC, and other GL-related events. While I will certainly attend the three local East shows, I prefer the company of Great Lakes people (must be something about that Midwest water!). Long live Great Lakes and a spirit of cooperation around the region.

From Rich Smethurst, Loveland- OH

Nine of our local gamers attended Fall In this past weekend. Outside of showers on the drive east on Thursday, the weather was mild and clear, inviting daily visits to the Gettysburg Battlefield just north of the convention. There were many terrific, clever games, although the numerous event cancellations convinced us this was the actual convention theme. Still, the staff did their best to accommodate us, and we usually managed to find an interesting substitute. Fall In always has something to do!

"Lord Of The Rings" was the NEW game in the dealer area, and an eye candy demo game was repeatedly run throughout the weekend. The Perry twins sent over an awesome prerelease demo of their ECW rules, formatted similar to Warharnmer Ancients. There was a computer assisted Sea Power game of predreadnaughts that ran quite smoothly. We returned home with new figures, rules, memories of a great time, and plans for the future.