Scale Modeling is a craft and a pastime, be it for simple relaxation or such as to approach fine art – and anywhere in between. Hampton Roads Scale Modelers (HRSM) recognizes this spectrum of interests and welcomes all enthusiasts, both young and more mature, from beginning modelers to life-long craftsmen.
Over the years, I have found that the ‘Web’ has grown into an indispensable modeling tool, particularly with regard to research. But the “networking” aspect has also grown and matured as better, more intuitive tools and venues have come online. Where once upon a time, news groups (aka ‘USENET’) ruled, forums now own the field. Similarly, blogs have taken the place of “BBS” or ‘bulletin boards’. Lastly, social media such as Facebook has expanded into the arena of ‘group’ interactions. Each iteration of these communication mechnaism has provided different, sometimes superior, functionality to promote communities within the larger crush of information flowing across the Internet.
Once, it was ‘de rigueur’ for organizations like our little modeling club to establish a web presence using some form of static website. Surveying the sites of various IPMS chapters, you might wonder at the purpose or message of some. For HRSM, the purpose is simple – share relevant information related to our club and the modeling pastime in general. What is ‘relevant’ is of course colored by our own personal perspectives but in ‘leading the charge’ in establishing this site’s content, I’m drawing on my own 55 years of modeling experience to provide what I hope is a useful framework to support that goal. My aim is to support HRSM’s web presence as it evolves without losing sight of the underlying mission to promote scale modeling as a worthwhile pastime for young and old alike.
