The 'VBD' Convention.

[GHOSTHUNTER]

There are issues in this hobby where colours of models are hard to determin. It does not matter how many pairs of Eyes look at the models there will be differences of opinion, if enough examples of a model can be brought together for a group comparison, it may then be possible to come to some conclusion over the colour.

An example of this has been the #42 Studebaker, there have been Two long threads about the colours used on this model, one on our old forum and one here on this forum (They are linked so you can read the old thread from this forum), and while there was a core number of members contributing to the topic, it took a very long while to establish the terminology for the colours and in what order of issue to the retail markets.

This is not the place to carry on with discussions about the particular model, but during those threads it was suggested the models should be brought together at a location for further studying and group photos to be taken, if we can pull this off with as many members as possible able to bring their examples of the model to a designated location, it will have to organized properly in the form of a Convention and this is something we can do ourselves with careful planning and team selection.

So I have put this here as a starting point towards our first Convention, The 'VBD' Convention with the intention of stabilizing the code system for this model, the #42 Studebaker.

A lot of details will need sorting and finalizing in the forthcoming Weeks, so please if you have ideas and want to get involved, post your comments in this thread.

I have put below some essential requirments for the Convention to take place in an orderly manner, so at least the ground work has started.

1, A management Team, led by One leader (I propose Nick Jones).
...to oversee the basic rules and order of play on the Day and this team need be no more than Nick with Two assistants.

2, The model expert, automatically this would be Nick, but personally I would delegate another person for this and Nick will then 'Agree' or 'Disagree' with the findings.

3, Boss for the Day, this need not be a model expert as he/she will just be on the lookout for things that are or can go wrong, needs to to be aware of Fire exits, Toilets, First aid and refreshments etc and generally guide the Days proceedings and remind who is doing what and keep a list of what we are supposed to be doing during the Day.

...these are my ideas and welcome others, but the idea is to concentrate on establishing a model's colour status, have fun and enjoy the toy fair while we are there, we don't want lists of rules and regulations, this is going to be our first such Convention, so lets make it easy and enjoyable.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[fixer]

as I suggested in the other thread I would suggest Hugh as he has a good eye for details (you only have to look at his RW postings) and as the "cat herder" he may just be able to control us . this by no means disrespects the knowledge of other members , hope I've not stepped out of line
just a thought that's going to be one hard fair to get anything !!!

[shockwavediecast]

If its going to be UK based, will there be a swapmeet element? If so, can I book a stall?

[fixer]

I think NEC has been suggested, it seems to be the most central for all the UK based members, only downside is the poor lighting in the hall

[GHOSTHUNTER]

If its going to be UK based, will there be a swapmeet element? If so, can I book a stall?

As it is most likely to be taking place within a toy fair event at the NEC, the Convention will not be in a position to organize and hold it's own 'Swapmeet/toy fair', it will be a gathering of forum members to study and establish a colour coding method and there is likely only examples of the same model on display, however, this does not mean you can not attend, the more the merrier.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[GHOSTHUNTER]

I think NEC has been suggested, it seems to be the most central for all the UK based members, only downside is the poor lighting in the hall

I rather think what we want to do for our Convention, is to hold it outside in the reception/foyer area, where we sat before with the Group 6 models, as the natural Daylight there is what we want to study colours on models.

We won't be buying or selling anything ourselves, so I don't see a problem with the organizer of the main event, only if we croud the foyer area with members (highly unlikely!), will there be concerns over what we are doing.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[Tinman]

Does this event have a possible date? Can those of us from the States attend?

[GHOSTHUNTER]

The next NEC Birmingham toy fair is scheduled to take place on Sunday 21st June, 2015, it has an 'Early Bird' entry for an increased fee (£10), that allows you to get in while the stall holders and dealers are still assembling their stalls and putting out their stock.

None of the above is instigated or controlled by the 'VBD', this forum, it is just a handy time and location for us to have our Convention and anyone is welcome to attend to see other forum members and to enjoy one of the UK's well established toy fairs (and spend money on toys and models!!).

So yes Joe, pack a few night bags, bring yourself and your lovely Wife over to the UK and let your hair down, it will be nice to meet you both.

Further details and location directions to follow.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[Idris]

I think calling this event a convention is misleading. As I understand it, a group of us will gather together in order to examine a particular model (the 42b Studebaker Lark) the colours of which are extremely difficult to classify/organise any other way.
I would suggest that it be termed a VDB Meeting and that we keep the Convention title for a more appropriate occasion.

[GHOSTHUNTER]

I think calling this event a convention is misleading. As I understand it, a group of us will gather together in order to examine a particular model (the 42b Studebaker Lark) the colours of which are extremely difficult to classify/organise any other way.
I would suggest that it be termed a VDB Meeting and that we keep the Convention title for a more appropriate occasion.

The term Convention came from your own lips Hugh and I just adopted it and if you check up its meaning, it perfectly describes what you want to do with the Studebaker...

Seriously, how likely is it that enough members can attend and bring along their Studebaker models, Four or Five! after reading though all your initial posts for this model, I hope more get involved as it seems you did not have too many interested parties last time!

I would rather call it a Mini-Convention if that's OK with you.

GHOSTHUNTER.