June 10, 2004

HobbyVisions International 2004

HobbyVisions International, the monumental trade and consumer hobby show in Las Vegas, announces endorsements and sponsorships from the National Retail Hobby Stores Association (NRHSA), the Model Railroad Industry Association (MRIA) and the International Model-Hobby Manufacturers Association (IMMA). In addition, Mattel has come aboard as a sponsor. Mattel brings a barrage of public relations skills and national consumer appeal, and a high number of new public and trade buyers to the show, which takes place in Las Vegas from October 7th through the 10th at the Sands Expo/Venetian Hotel.

Rob Gherman, president of HobbyVisions, states, "We have always been one of the strongest supporters of industry associations. We have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars in advertising and editorial support for the industry and industry associations for more than 60 years.

HobbyVisions International is a supporter of the Hobby Industry Unification Task Force, although we clearly wish to focus on creating the best business show possible for the hobby industry.

“HobbyVisions International takes place in the greatest trade show city in the world,” Gherman continued, “and we attract world media and buyers. As a first time show last year, HobbyVisions topped most startup shows by tenfold. This year’s show should be even more successful, as we are already experiencing more registration and participation than we did at this time last year.

HobbyVisions welcomes back Frank Tiano of FTE (Frank Tiano Enterprises) as the flying director of the New T.O.C. The Totally Outrageous Challenge will be held on Sunday, October 10th at the William G. Bennett Flying Field, adjacent to the Las Vegas Silver Bowl. This unparalleled flying extravaganza features many of the world's most famous RC pilots.

HobbyVisions also wishes to acknowledge the continuing support of the companies and individuals who have made it possible for HobbyVisions to reach millions of consumers. These include Chris Chianelli, HobbyTown USA, the Academy of Model Aeronautics, RC Modeler magazine, Quiet Flyer magazine, The Toy Book and RC Universe, and the many other HobbyVisions supporters who are presently renewing their sponsorship.

As a result of increasing the size and scope of the 2004 show in October, HobbyVisions has added valet parking at the Sands Expo, two additional hotels for discounted accommodations, and increased security measures — including the installation of surveillance cameras.