5th Anual AnnArbor Area Reefers Frag Swap And Social Gathering!

[Sir Patrick]

Its that time of year again!!!

This year we've decided to keep the same facility as last year, just outside of Ann Arbor, in Dexter, and very close/easy access to the highway to accommodate the growing interest in the Ann Arbor Area Swap. We had quite the turn out last year! We look forward to seeing all the folks that previously attended the last 4 Ann Arbor area events as well as new swappers from all levels of the hobby. This swap will surely be one not to miss!!!

Where-

Swap-

Dexter K of C Hall
8265 Dexter Chelsea Rd.
Dexter, MI 48130

MapQuest Maps - Driving Directions - Map (http://www.mapquest.com/maps?address=8265+Dexter+Chelsea+Rd&city=Dexter&state=MI&zipcode=48130)


When-

Sunday, March 24th 2013.
From- Noon till 4pm

General Admission:

$3 per person general admission and get 1 free Raffle ticket!!!!
Kids 15 and under free with adult admission


Vendor/Hobbiest Table Price:

$25 per full table + Raffle donation Includes admission for 2
$15 per half table + Raffle donation Includes admission for 1

Setup restictions:

Max water volume per table: 50 gallons (or 25 gallons per half table) Unless you provide your own table/stand that can carry more.
Maximum power per table: 300 watts max. (e.g.,100 watt heater, 200 watts lighting)
Make sure your equipment is in good working order and not a safety hazard.
Bring your own extension cords and possible powerstrip for more than 1 plug. All cords must be clear of walkways or securely taped to avoid tripping.

Concessions/food will be available.

We are also planning to put together some sort of raffle event as well- Gets bigger and better every year!

Please welcome our vendors/sponcers!

Happycoral.com- Full table
DKnuckles- Full table
10K- Full table
Jakem & RED02- Full table
AquaFX- Full table
TasoB & Jaime- Full table
Paradise Corals- Full table
Cherry coral- 1Full table
Larry and laura- 1 Full table
Exotic Reef Creations- Full table
Captivereefs- Full table
BeekerBob- 1/2 table
Eye Candy Corals- Full table
Jason Fox Signature Corals- Full table
Reef Solutions- Full Table
Beef's reef- 2 tables
1CARPENTER- Full table
The Bluue glow- full table
MyNemesis- 1/2 table
Reefbrite- 1 Full Table
Dputt88- 1/2 table
BarkingShark- 1 Full Table
Pet Suppliers- 1 Full table
Booyah's Clown Fish- 1 Full table
Fin-Free.org- 1/2 table
Dark Reef- Full table
Ghrorick- Full Table


And many more in the works!


There will be a raffle this year!! In effort to keep this swap a growing yearly local Ann Arbor event- Tableholders, advertisers and local reefers have come forward to donating raffle items!

Raffle ticket are $1 each and everyone through the door gets 1 Raffle ticket free!

Raffle will start aprox. 3pm, possibly earlier!

Table layout is ready!!!!


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/swap/AASWAPLAYOUT2-14-13_zps74ac05b0.jpg

1. AARC Table
2. LarryandLaura
3. Booyah's ClownFish
4. 1CARPENTER
5. 10k and kessil
6. Paradise Corals
7. Taso&Jaime
8. Reef Solutions
9. Dark Reef
10. ReefBrite
11. Exotic Reef Creations
12. BeakerBob/ MyNemesis
13. The Blue Glow
14. Jason Fox
15. Cherry Corals
16. Pet Suppliers
17. Captivereefs
18. Jakem&Red02
19. BarkingShark
20. Dknuckles
21. Happy Corals
22. Eye Candy Coral
23. DPutt
24. Beef's Reef
25. Beef's Reef
28. AquaFX
29. Fin-Free.org
30. Ghrorick
31.

[dknuckles]

Its that time of year again!!!

This year we've decided to keep the same facility as last year, just outside of Ann Arbor, in Dexter, and very close/easy access to the highway to accommodate the growing interest in the Ann Arbor Area Swap. We had quite the turn out last year! We look forward to seeing all the folks that previously attended the last 4 Ann Arbor area events as well as new swappers from all levels of the hobby. This swap will surely be one not to miss!!!

Where-

Swap-

Dexter K of C Hall
8265 Dexter Chelsea Rd.
Dexter, MI 48130

MapQuest Maps - Driving Directions - Map (http://www.mapquest.com/maps?address=8265+Dexter+Chelsea+Rd&city=Dexter&state=MI&zipcode=48130)


When-

Sunday, March 24th 2013.
From- Noon till 4pm

General Admission:

$5 per person general admission
Kids 15 and under free with adult admission


Vendor/Hobbiest Table Price:

$25 per full table + Raffle donation Includes admission for 2
$15 per half table + Raffle donation Includes admission for 1

Setup restictions: (See exceptions in post #4 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=4) )
Max water volume per table: 50 gallons (or 25 gallons per half table)
Maximum power per table: 300 watts max. (e.g.,100 watt heater, 200 watts lighting)
Make sure your equipment is in good working order and not a safety hazard.
Bring your own extension cords and possible powerstrip for more than 1 plug. All cords must be clear of walkways or securely taped to avoid tripping.

Concessions/food will be available.

We are also planning to put together some sort of raffle event as well- Gets bigger and better every year!
Sweet!
Put me down for a full table w/power

[Sir Patrick]

Sponcer/Table Holder/Vendor Information-

Unless other arangments have been made, please paypal chrispatmac@comcast.net for your table reservations to be finalized. For those who have not made arangments or already paid, I will need payment to finalize your spot. Please send me a PM, note, or anything else to distinguish who is who on the paypal table payments. There have been a couple payments and I am unsure who's table they are for.

Also- part of the table cost is a raffle donation. If you could, the sooner the better, get a picture, or even a description of what you intend donate, it would be appreciated. We would like to be able to post what all is going to be available for the raffle ahead of time, and give credit for the donations where credit is due. Pics are always a plus!!!

Table restriction exceptions-

You may have a larger than 50 gallon tank if supplying your own table that will support this weight.

If you cant, for one reason or another, get under power restrictions, let me know. Might be able to plan location accordingly, to compensate the over power usage. Please make sure I am contacted ahead of time.

[creefer]

Really looking forward to this. It's nice and close to home!

[twitch]

Just went to Lansing Swap. These things are addictive.

[dknuckles]

Just went to Lansing Swap. These things are addictive.

Just wait...it only gets worse:hypnodisk:

That is why I keep my wife away ;)

[binford4000]

Chris put us down for a few donations for the raffle

[Sir Patrick]

Always appreciated Chuck- Just like all the years past. :thumbsup:

Just make sure to stop me and say Hi!

---------- Post added at 01:48 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:47 AM ----------

I will be easy to spot and hard to catch again, I am sure.

[larryandlaura]

Can't wait for this swap! See you all there.

[Sir Patrick]

The Vendors are filling in as fast as I can add them!!

We will be likely keeping the vendor list at around 25 or less vendors this year, so if you want a spot- do not delay!

Welcome, so far-

Happycoral
DKnuckles
10K
Jakem & RED02
AquaFX
TasoB & Jaime
Paradise Corals
Tropicorium
Cherry coral
Larry and laura
Exotic Reef Creations

[jimsflies]

Put CaptiveReefs down for a table.

[larryandlaura]

The list keeps growing!

[Sir Patrick]

Adding more comfirmed vendors this evening.

[Skyhigh]

Should be a TON of fun!!!!

[larryandlaura]

Every time. I see the lust it has grown.

[Sir Patrick]

Between those we have heard back from from previous years, and those who have prepaid....looks like we may have 3 or 4 more tables left, up for grabs....if that.....

If you want in on this event, please let me know....I dont like turning those away that didnt decide soon enough, and just like every year, since the 2nd swap- I am going to have to turn a few away, unfortunately.

I wish I could just pack you all in......but cant.

Looking forward to hearing back soon guys!

[larryandlaura]

Any ideas where everyone is meeting up afterwards?

[dknuckles]

I have to hurry back to restaurant to close :(
No after swap madness for me :crying:

[that Reef Guy]

I have to hurry back to restaurant to close :(
No after swap madness for me :crying:

Which restaurant are you referring to?

Do you have any aquariums in there?

[twitch]

Is there a raffle list going yet? Those always at a bit of excitment.

[Sir Patrick]

Is there a raffle list going yet? Those always at a bit of excitment.

Yes, there is a raffle to happen. A little early to announce, but so far-

Plenty of goodies to go around.

Did I mention, everyone through the door will be able to get, at the bare minimum, 1 raffle ticket? Free?

[Sir Patrick]

Raffle items are already rolling in.....

[buk]

any new updates? getting excited about this swap. it was a lot of fun last year.

[Sir Patrick]

Lots of updates. I will be adding a few soon.

[sinistervato]

wish i could make it. hope everyone has a good time

[larryandlaura]

Standing by for update!

[creefer]

Maybe a time for a "who's bringing what to the swap" thread.:shrug:

[larryandlaura]

Maybe a time for a "who's bringing what to the swap" thread.:shrug:

We will bringing tons of zoas and palys.

[Tropical Buff]

I'm In
Just let me know if you need set up help I would be more than happy to plus its just around the corner

[Sir Patrick]

Table layout has been posted!

To choose your spot, tables must be pre-paid please.

I sure would like to see more hobbyists and home propagators on the list.

[dknuckles]

Table layout has been posted!

To choose your spot, tables must be pre-paid please.

I sure would like to see more hobbyists and home propagators on the list.

Put me down for 21 please
PM sent

---------- Post added at 07:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:41 PM ----------

Ok how about 20 lol

[Sir Patrick]

The what are you bringing and the raffle thread is posted!!!

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/reefing-events/aarc-eye-candy-raffle-thread-what-you-bringing-26645/

[pmrowlson]

We're really looking forward to this, it'll be our first saltwater anything we've attended. I wish we had stuff to bring but maybe for next years we will!

[wenwillwego]

Will there be any talks or lectures? I really enjoyed that part of the Lansing swap...

[Sir Patrick]

Will there be any talks or lectures? I really enjoyed that part of the Lansing swap...

No- There will be no talks or lectures, other than the ones shared with the local hobbiests at the swap. I have found that there is great reef related conversation to be found all over the place at this event.

I do, however, plan to have club meetings with talks and lectures as well as some 1on1 Q&A's with an expert or two as part of the Ann Arbor Area Reefers Club in the future. We will likely have some more hands on demonstrations and DIYs scheduled pretty soon also, not too long after the swap is over and done.

[Srt8]

Oh no,this is taking over my life.will be there. Lansing was good my first swap. Although I have a small fortune invested in a 75 gallon and corals,maybe I should start growing them out and trading and selling to support my habit .lol

[Sir Patrick]

Registering with Fragswapper.com!!!! How did I forget about them.....

Look forward to details.

[Sir Patrick]

Working on night before set up for the swap!

Waiting on for sure confirmation, but so far, its looking like 8pm-10pm to set up Saturday night.

Also, for the out of towners-

I am communicating with a few local hotels, trying to get a group/event rate established. The more responces I get with interest, the easier it will be for me to set up. Maybe a hotel with a bar? Do I hear night before drinks after set up anybody???

[Sir Patrick]

3 Tables Left!!!!!

[Sir Patrick]

We were thinking in the beginning- $5 at the door, to make the line go faster, but....

Price drop for admission- $3!!! And still get your free raffle ticket!!

Please- bring exact change. This will help the line go much quicker and easier for everyone!

[Sir Patrick]

All Tables Sold!!!!

[Sir Patrick]

New news!! We have the go-ahead for night before swap set up. 8pm-11pm. We gotta be out at 11pm sharp!

I am thinking, for all who want to grab a bite or a beer after, to head around the corner to the local pub to hang out and enjoy the company, after the night befor set up, before heading to the hotels/home.

Also- for all that plan on attending the swap- Saturday night, I have arranged with Comfort Inn, In Chelsea MI, for a discounted rate for the night! $69!!! Make sure to mention The Ann Arbor Reef Club and the rate of $69 when reserving your rooms

Chelsea Michigan hotels, Comfort Inn hotel adjacent to the Village Conference Center, Chelsea MI (http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-chelsea-michigan-MI164)

Sunday set up will happen from 9am- noon, and then the doors to the swap will be open till 4pm. We will have till 5:30 to break down and be out of the Hall.

[Sir Patrick]

Event has been registered on Fragswapper.com!!!

[Sir Patrick]

Table 31 is still available!!! :big_grin:

[Sir Patrick]

Tomorrow is the big day!!!

[binford4000]

Tomorrow is the big day!!!

Can donations be dropped of early so you can do what ya need to?

[wenwillwego]

So I notice the hall has a bar...:highfive3:


Haha... not that I expect it to be open of course, I just think it's funny that it's on the map!

[dputt88]

Hot water available or no? It'll save me a ton of time in the am

[Sir Patrick]

Hot water available or no? It'll save me a ton of time in the am

Yes, there will be hot tap water available. Sorry, forgot to get back to ya- :embarrassed:

---------- Post added at 12:31 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:29 AM ----------


Can donations be dropped of early so you can do what ya need to?

Any time chuck!

[Sir Patrick]

So I notice the hall has a bar...:highfive3:


Haha... not that I expect it to be open of course, I just think it's funny that it's on the map!

Normally, it is open, but this year our bar tending service last minute failed, unfortunately.

[dknuckles]

All set just have to wake up @4 to pack em up for the ride.
Cannot wait to see everyone again!

[Sir Patrick]

I hope evryone had a good time! I know I did!

[dknuckles]

I definately want to thank you and all that helped put this together, I had a great time!! pjr thanks for helping me out this morning :)

Thanks again

[Seph]

Thank you Chris for all your hard work and everyone else who helped. Great swap! had lots of fun.

[that Reef Guy]

I had a great time.

[Sir Patrick]

I had a great time also!!!!

I always realize, the night after, why it is so worth it. I am glad so many had a great time!!

[jimsflies]

Great job guys! I also had fun.

[pjr]

I definately want to thank you and all that helped put this together, I had a great time!! pjr thanks for helping me out this morning :)

Thanks again

Glad to help. was kinda the Don Kelly of frag swaps, filling in here and there. A little duct tape work, a little mop work, a bit of hand stamping at the door, and some setup repair as a bonus. :silly:

Thx Sir Patrick for a great event! I don't think anyone realizes how much work you put into this swap! Nice work from growing it to this point. (still remember the first one in the basement of the restaurant....was it really 4 1/2 years ago?).

Best thing of the 2013 event -- I finally won a raffle prize! :highfive3:

[Manoj's Reef]

Job well done, enjoyed the swap!!!!!

[bigbill]

I hope evryone had a good time! I know I did!
had a blast bud great job counting down the days till next year

[creefer]

Great work, Sir Patrick! The swap was a good time.

[pjr]

P.S. Kudos to "Dame Patrick," who worked the door on Sunday and also put up with Sir Patrick's time and effort required to plan this event. Thanks for sharing Chris with us!

[Hopkins]

This was a great swap. I came 30 minutes after the doors opened and could hardly find a spot to park. I hope you all enjoyed spinning the wheel as much as I enjoyed giving away Jim's prizes!

[ghrorick]

thanks to Chris and Paulo for a great swap. Also thanks to captive reefs for the wheel of fortune, got a nice coral.

[wenwillwego]

I of course also had a great time too. I love seeing what people bring to these things, and it was fun to meet some area reefers too. All of my new corals have settled in nicely! :)

[pinhigh1886]

Great swap! I got lots of new acros:piggy-bank:

[dknuckles]

Great swap guys!

[Paulo]

Had a great time at the swap. Chris does a lot of the work I just try to help out as much as I can. Was gonna respond yesterday but was sick as help. I thought I may have been sick on sunday but I did not want to hose Chris and call in sick. So I toughed it out and yesterday I was hurting lol. Hopefully I did not get anyone sick and really look forward to see everyone at the next swap. Was really nice to see everyone there. Chris and I had lots of nice feedback from people and vendors so that makes us proud!
Paulo
P.S. Just noticed I posted night after the swap and I did not even remember it I was tired lol

[creefer]

Great swap! I got lots of new acros:piggy-bank:

Ohh yea...me too!

[bigbill]

Great swap guys!

I have your bucket lol

[dknuckles]

But, I did not bring a bucket

[binford4000]

But, I did not bring a bucket

I have a garage full of em ! Help yourself ! Lol

[Sir Patrick]

Thanks everyone for a heck of a swap! All those who attended and those who set up tables. Numbers were a little low this year, through the door, but I cant call this swap anything but a success!

Thank you Larry and Laura, Paulo, Tropical Buff (Bart), Jolson, PJR, Wenwillwego (Mary), Buk, Redemer123 (Andrew) and Christine, Monstertankman, for all the help. You guys really made it possible for this to happen as smoothly as it did! I appreciate it more than I can express!

Also- A huge thank you to the Binfords and BlayloJ for their additions to the raffle, for the sole reason of wanting to. Very selfless and much appreciated!

Great times!!!!

Hopefully, next time, we will have our bartender back! :big_grin:

[Sir Patrick]

On to some videos-


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3Tdzr5vLh8



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVCBqR5OfdY



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsie2eaDSK8





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3i7EJlLxZo





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CcaAnmcsPNM



And about 10 minutes into the swap, while people were just starting to roll in-


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijhSj2j3aro

[bigbill]

But, I did not bring a bucket
o ok was told it was yours no biggie lol