Kings County Classic 2005 by Richard Dowhower

On August 13, 2005, the Kings County Scale Modelers held their 1^st Annual Kings County Classic model show and contest in Lemoore, California.  The civic auditorium was somewhat hard to find (actually following Yahoo directions, the street name was not correct) but we found our way.  There was a cafeteria located in the building serving the standard fare (nachos, burritos, hot dogs, etc.).  There was a Make-and-Take for the kids – fun to watch.

The entry fees varied – $5.00 for seniors ($1.00 per model), $1.00 for juniors ($.50 per model) and $1 for sub-juniors (2 models free, $.50 for each additional model).  Registration was quick and easy, forms were available online.  Each model was assigned a number which was posted next to it on the display table.   Both vendors and models shared the same area. 

Being an auditorium, the display area was large with bright lighting.  The aisles were wide with plenty of tables set at a good height.

A raffle was held two times during the day with tickets costing $1.00 and $.50.  Many great items were raffled off – yours truly won the grand prize, Academy’s new 1/32 F-16.  The only criticism I have with the raffle were the smaller items – a bottle of paint per ticket.  Maybe next year as a suggestion this could be changed to a group of military, automotive or aircraft colors.  There was a good showing of vendors selling a wide variety of kits, aftermarket items, tool, books and the like.

 The judging started at 12:30 and ended at 2:30.  The club allowed volunteer judges to participate in the process which I think is a good idea.  No models were touched or moved during the judging (a statement was made that this does occur in the nationals). There were 27 categories for seniors, 4 for juniors and sub-juniors as well as 8 special awards.  Nice plaques were given for 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place winners, ribbons for all kids and large clear trophies for the special awards.  All winners were announced over the PA. 

I really enjoyed myself at this contest. All of the members were helpful and very nice, making everyone feel right at home.  I hope this show will grow in the future.  I will surely be back next year.  Well Done!!