 Dear
Ladies and Gentlemen:As the successors to the
Great Scale Model Train Show, Mike (at right) and I
are somewhat breathless as we consider all that goes
into producing the shows. Fortunately for us (and
you) Howard and Ken will still be active in
operating the business, and the very capable staff
will also continue, as indicated from the
announcement letter they recently sent to many of
you.
Let us be among the first to tell you: this
letter is intended as a greeting and an
introduction; it is NOT an attempt to prepare you
for any “bad news” about the cost of the shows or
radical changes in style.
For Vendors, this means the liberal discounts for
booking in advance, renting additional tables, and
free electrical hookup will continue as before. The
basic procedures and times for set-up, take down and
routine operation also remain the same.
Club layouts and clinics may likewise expect the
same very grateful accommodation you've had in the
past. We are keenly aware of your contribution to
and support of the hobby, and those who labor long
in their pursuit of it.
Show-goers, buyers and visitors are the essential
constituencies which have advanced the show's
popularity over the past 3 decades, and, you, too,
should have no concerns about the cost of admission
and about our effort to deliver a lively marketplace
and wholesome family activity.
In order to dispell rumors, let us now tell you
exactly how we became the now owners:
During one show in early 2013, we asked Ken -just
out of curiosity- if there was any truth to the
occasional rumors of a sale. He said there had been
occasional inquiries, but little more. He and Howard
both enjoyed producing the shows, and the shows paid
for themselves, so there was no pressing need to
sell. They had never actively sought a buyer.
When Ken asked if we wanted to buy, Mike and I
could only say that we had “thought about it,” as a
kind of remote possibility, but not much more than
that. A few weeks later, Howard invited us to visit
for an informal chat. The ultimate result of that
visit, and others to follow, is the letter you are
reading right now. We think you will take particular
comfort (as did we) from the priorities controlling
on any sale. Finances were one thing, but more
important to Howard and Ken were our values and
priorities, our commitment to the hobby, and to the
tradition of the shows.
Quite clearly, perpetuating the show was the real
mission; selling it was a means to that end. It
wasn’t long before we all recognized that
perpetuation and continuity were the central ideas
we all shared. As Howard put it, “Do this because
you love it.” That made sense, to us, and with the
four of us on the same page, we proceeded to the
details of a contract. In a nutshell, that's the
unvarnished story.
We now think of ourselves as “successors” because
we understand the shows as an entrustment of a
highly esteemed and long running institution. It is
the joint effort of all the stake-holders (vendors,
clubs, manufacturers, visitors and staff) who have
made it such a stunning success over more than three
decades. Mike and I cannot imagine a more uplifting
company of people.
Of course, times do change and we must make such
changes as will best adapt us to the times. You may
have (or will) see a few minor indications: a
refreshed web site, and a (hopefully) convenient
vendor table and show booking format, on the web
site. We have some other initiatives in development,
too, which will be announced and rolled out as we
move ahead. Meanwhile, we want you to tell us how we
can improve upon the shows so they continue to grow
and offer the best opportunity for buyers and
sellers to positively present the hobby to those who
are considering it, and to the public at large. And
yes, we do want to hear any pet peeves and
criticisms. The only way we can serve you well is to
well know what is important to you, and the only
trustworthy source of this knowledge is you. So,
please, speak up!
We look forward to a bright future and continuing
success. Your past support is most appreciated as
will be your presence at the shows, looking ahead.
Together with Howard and Ken, and the entire staff,
we dedicate ourselves to your satisfaction and look
forward to every opportunity of service.
To reach us, call 434-823-4809, or email to
jsgeare@yahoo.com.
Thanks for reading.
J. Scott Geare
Mike Militello |
