I am just returning to modeling after 25 years. Notice a train show in Tampa on Dec 16-17. Advertised in MR. Are shows "run" by this organization notoriosly good,average,bad?
I am not sure of the organization you are refering to but I will assume that it is a GATS show (Great American Train Show). The GATS shows are a mixture of dealers that travel from GATS show to GATS show, local dealers, individual sellers, and model railroad clubs. You can find some good prices and you can get ripped off. If you are looking to buy something, be sure to have a price in mind before you get to the show. Also, be sure to thoroughly checkout anything you buy (especially missing parts). GATS provides test tracks for checking locomotives. Unlike a local dealer, it is almost impossible to return something. One nice thing is all of the club layouts on display. GATS pays local clubs to display their layouts at the shows. They have a top prize of $400 and a minimum of $50. Not only do you get to see other's work but you can talk to the members and if interested you might want to join a club. This could really help someone new to the hobby or just re-entering it. I would recommend checking it out. David
<font color="336633">Welcome to Trainborad Rich i cant really say about any of the shows as i live on a diferent continent, but i hope u enjoy your self here if you want to know how to do anything feel free to ask </font> ------------------ Matthew wheres all the C636's???? stickymonk.com Matts Photo gallery [This message has been edited by StickyMonk (edited 16 November 2000).]
There is also a swap meet/show on December 9 & 10 at the Honeywell Hall just off US 19 in Largo. It is being run by the Suncoast Model Railroad Club which will have it's HO and N scale layouts open to the public. The club is just down the street from the show.
