OrangeCon 2004 by Richard Dowhower

The Orange County Chapter of IPMS hosted the OrangeCon2004 contest held in Fullerton, California on October 17, 2004.  A flyer was provided on their website with the contest location, list of categories and fees.  There were pre-registration forms that could be filled online and/or printed for the contest.

 The contest was located at the Anaheim Park Hotel.  Several restaurants were located in the area and in the hotel. This was last minute relocation due the closure of their prior location, the Sequoia Conference Center.  Registration was setup in a very narrow hallway (I got bumped many times) with many tables taking up much of this small space.  There was plenty of parking.  Vendors and models were in different rooms. 

The admission fee was $7.00 and $1.00 for each model.  Spectators paid the same admission fee, young adults $2.00 and juniors were free.  The registration paperwork was well thought out and quick.  No personal information was displayed with the models (never a good idea!!!).

For the raffle there were few items on the table at any time, but several raffles were held during the contest.  The items were numbered; the winner had no choice as to what item they wanted.  The caller did a great job but there was not enough room in the hallway for everyone.   

The display area was large but the aisles were narrow and did not offer enough room to move about.  Plenty of tables were provided for all entries, however they were very low.  Judging was relatively quick and smooth and volunteers were used.  During this process I noticed many models were picked up and examined.  This should be not allowed at any contest because many of us spend countless hours building and detailing; it is too easy for someone to drop a model by accident.  All winning entries were announced over the PA system.  The awards were attractive wood plaques.  All juniors received ribbons for participation.

Unlike past OrangeCon events, turnout was somewhat low.  The weather (rain) and change of location were the main reasons; both were unavoidable.

Still the members of Orange Count put together great show, one which I will attend next year!!