Well folks, it's time for Drums Along the Maumee! This is the fourth year for our historical miniatures gaming convention, and may I say it will be the best one so far. We've worked hard to fill the schedule with a variety of exciting events. I must thank all of the judges who make the quality of the games top-notch. Our conventions would not be possible without these dedicated gamemasters.

This year, we will have: World War II, ACW, Napoleonic, AWI, French & Indian, Boer War, Boxer Rebellion, Wild West, Mexican War, Colonial Africa, WWI dogfights, Gladiators, Ironclads and a large scale GI Joe game with a 40" Tiger tank! That's right, something for everyone!

The Dealer area is about full -- maybe room for one more. The list so far: The Nafziger Collection, Brigadiers Military Miniatures, Light Trading Company, RLBPS, The Colour Sergeant and Glass City Games.

Browsing the dealers area is always a favorite convention activity when done properly:

1. The walk through.
2. Price check
3. Buy it before it's gone.

Our expanded schedule will allow open gaming in the evening both nights. We have some non-historicals planned for this time, and may have more by convention time. The first ever Drums Flea Market will be open Friday and Saturday after the dealers close. Bring your unwanted gaming items --- unlucky dice, those 15mm figs that are just too small to paint -- anything you can live without. The prices are $10 per table or $5 for half. Our rules are simple: Use the table, not the floor. You are responsible for your stuff and gaming items only -- no fishing tackle or bowling balls, but Orks are OK.

The Special Sunday Event is truly a highlight this year. The two year, $6.2 million renovation project at Ft. Meigs is finished and we are one of the first groups able to use the community classrooms in the new Visitor Center. We have three games set for Sunday at 10 am. All are local history related. Jim Thomasson will do a French & Indian scenario, My brother Steve is doing a Ft. Meigs skirmish, and I will re-run the Toledo War (this one won't count on the tally sheet). And did I mention all of the games will be played on BRAND NEW TABLES? No warped boards, bent legs or missing rubber feet. This could be a first in my gaming experience.

The admission prices are the same as last year. HMGS members pay $15 for the weekend and non-members pay $18. The Holiday Inn Toledo West is one of the best hotels in the area. If you use the buddy system you can share the expenses and save some money for the dealer room. The events at the fort on Sunday are free and will be open to the public after 12 noon. This opportunity to run some demo games is our way of repaying the staff at the fort for all of their help.

Four years and counting. I'm counting the new friends I've made, the fun I've had and the experience of seeing a project come together and flourish. Drums Along the Maumee will continue to prosper with your kind support and I hope to see you on Armed Forces Day!