Michigan's Largest Coral Swap! - Feb. 16, 2014

[jimsflies]

The Michigan Coral Expo & Swap (aka Lansing Swap) will be on February 16, 2014.

MCES is the largest reef event in Michigan. The 7th annual event promises to be even better this year. Last year, MCES brought together nearly 700 hobbyists from around the state and upper midwest with 50 vendors from across the country. If you are a reef keeper in the midwest, you do not want to miss this event!

Date: February 16, 2014
Where: Best Western Plus Hotel and Convention Center
6820 South Cedar Street
Lansing, MI 48911

Admission is $10 per person (kids under 16 are free)

The itinerary for the 2014 Michigan Coral Expo & Swap is as follows:
10:00: Admission for morning speaker session
10:30-11:30: Speaker #1 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=1) - Rick Preuss
11:30-12:00: early exhibition hall admission for morning speaker attendees
12:00: doors open to exhibition hall for general admission
1:30: early raffle (main exhibition hall)
2:00-2:30: Speaker #2 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=2) - Joy Meadows
3:30: raffle (main exhibition hall)
4:30: end


Vendor Line-Up: (refresh your cache if you don't see 2/14/14 version)

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout.png



6820 South Cedar Street, Lansing, MI 48911


Rooms are available for those wanting to stay over night at the event hotel now. To book a room, call 517-694-8123.


Vendor setup times are as follows:
Saturday Night: 7:00pm - 10:30pm
Sunday Morning: 8:30am - 12:00pm


Subscribe to these hash tags to get updates when they are posted:
#LansingSwap (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=LansingSwap) , #MCES (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=MCES) , #mmmc (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mmmc)

[larryandlaura]

Put me down for a table! I can't wait, this expo is a blast.

[Poseidon]

Woo Hoo! Putting it in the calendar now.

[dputt88]

put me down for a half table!

[that Reef Guy]

The Best Show of the Year by Far.

Is it at the same Hotel as last year?

Will there be speakers again this year like there was last year?

I can't wait.

[eveningstar15]

Hi, I am fairly new to saltwater and I have never been to a swap. I was thinking about going to this one. Is this only for corals or is there usually fish, shrimp, cuc??

[that Reef Guy]

Hi, I am fairly new to saltwater and I have never been to a swap. I was thinking about going to this one. Is this only for corals or is there usually fish, shrimp, cuc??

There will be some Fish (Usually Clown Fish) and CUC.

There is also a Guy who has a lot of Dry Goods.

But it is 99.9% Coral.

This is by far hands down the best Swap in Michigan though.

The last one actually had three speakers (Like MACNA) which I have never seen at a Swap before.

I recommend going to all Swaps but this is one that you cannot miss.

[larryandlaura]

Landing is when all then local reefers get together and let lose.

[dknuckles]

Put me down for a table!
This swap is always packed w/ goodies and usually has real nice raffle. If is also the swap I p/u all my dry goods I need.
If you only go to 1 swap/yr definitely this is the one to go to!

[jimsflies]

We just put the table reservation system online. If you'd like a table for MCES 2014, please reserve your table at:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/

#LansingSwap (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=LansingSwap) , #MCES (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=MCES) , #mmmc (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mmmc)

[jimsflies]

We just put the table reservation system online. If you'd like a table for MCES 2014, please reserve your table at:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/

#LansingSwap (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=LansingSwap) , #MCES (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=MCES) , #mmmc (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mmmc)

[larryandlaura]

Got table 36 thanks Jim.

[jimsflies]

Over a dozen tables reserved already. I would recommend not waiting to get your table as they are going to go quick!

[medeleric11]

I got table #34 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=34) . This will be our first time selling at a swap. We can't wait! I was wondering, what are the dimension of the booth and table? Thanks a lot Eric.

[jimsflies]

I got table #34 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=34) . This will be our first time selling at a swap. We can't wait! I was wondering, what are the dimension of the booth and table? Thanks a lot Eric.

If you look at the map, the colored rectangle, usually placed on the front of regular full booth area (e.g., Booth 34) is a standard banquet table measuring 8-foot x ~28-inches. The total area shown for each space is ~8x8-feet. There are a couple exceptions to this...most notably booth 43 doesn't isn't as deep, but is located in the main traffic area.

Booths include at least one standard table (some premium booths have two). If you don't want a table provided please let us know and we won't set one up for you. It also should be noted that it really isn't possible to provide your own table for a 1/2 booth location...unless you can work it out with the other half the table to bring their own as well. Half booth locations will share a single table.

[dknuckles]

Table 37 for me

Man the tables are flying! I had a iPhone glitch and the 2 tables I was looking @ already sold! This is going to be a great turnout!

I cannot wait for this swap I have already started fragging!

[jimsflies]

Just a quick note to let you know I am aware of speed problems with the http://www.mi-reef.org site. Due to the sluggishness it is experiencing we are going to migrate the site to a better server. The migration is scheduled to occur tonight at 2am EST and will cause the site to be offline for an hour or two. In the meantime, if you want to reserve a table just bear with the site and it will eventually load...its just not going to be as speedy as we'd like.

[FlynnFish]

Tables 40 and 41 for me!

[dknuckles]

Just a quick note to let you know I am aware of speed problems with the http://www.mi-reef.org site. Due to the sluggishness it is experiencing we are going to migrate the site to a better server. The migration is scheduled to occur tonight at 2am EST and will cause the site to be offline for an hour or two. In the meantime, if you want to reserve a table just bear with the site and it will eventually load...its just not going to be as speedy as we'd like.



LOL yah I was anxiously pushing screen:smash:
Once I slowed down it went through perfectly

[dknuckles]

Tables 40 and 41 for me!

Yay!!!
How is Cheeky doing?

Also put me down for some Rotifers & Pods

[FlynnFish]

Cheeky is the biggest of the bunch! He has 24 other siblings he's with right now, and i have about 100+ more that are between two weeks old and a week old.

Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk

[Reeftanker]

Table 26 please

[larryandlaura]

Any updates Jim? Also any CR towels or new shirts for the expo?

[jimsflies]

Only about 30% of the booths are still available. If you are planning on being a vendor, don't wait or you will be attending the swap as an attendee instead.

[larryandlaura]

Wow im shocked there are tables left. I can't wait for this expo.

[that Reef Guy]

Will anybody be bringing any of the following to this swap?

ACROPORA
Acropora Colonies on Rocks
Green Slimer (Colonies Only) (The Bigger the Better)
Oregon Tort

SERIATOPORA
ORA Green Bird's Nest
ORA Ponape Bird's Nest
ORA Birds of Paradise Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
ORA Hyacinth Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
ORA Pink Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
Any other Types of Bird's Nest

STYLOPHORA
ORA Pink Stylophora
ORA Purple Stylophora

POCILLOPORA
Pink Pocillopora
Green Pocillopora

MONTIPORA
Jedi Mind Trick
Rainbow
Reverse Superman
Superman
Poker Star
Sunset
True Undata
Confusa
Tyree Flower Petal Montipora
Tyree Idaho Grape
ORA Purple
ORA Orange Digitata
ORA Green Digitata
ORA German Blue Digitata
ORA Purple Digitata
ORA Supernatural Capricornis
ORA Jeremy's Montipora
ORA Elkhorn Montipora
Green Cap
Purple Cap
Any type of Plating Montipora

CHALICE
Watermelon Chalice
My Miami Chalice
Hollywood Stunner Chalice
Any other Chalices

ACAN
Acan Enchinata
Any other Acans (Especially Blue Acans)

FAVIA
Dragon Soul
Any other Type of Favia

MUSHROOM
Ricordea

ZOANTHIDS
Rastas
Fruitloops
Emeralds on Fire
Tubbs Blue
Kedd's Reds
Red Hornet
Blue Hornet
Purple Hornet
Yellow Hornet
Any other Hornet Zoanthids
Any Yellow Zoanthids

PLATE CORAL
Neon Green Plate (Smaller the Better)
Cool Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)
Multi Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)

CLAMS
Derasa
Any Blue Clams

ANEMONE
Rock Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones)
Flower Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones)

OTHER STUFF
Clean Up Crew (Hermit Crabs, Snails)

I am looking to buy Ecoxotic Stunner Strip LED's in all Sizes.

12"
24"
36"
48"

I am only looking for All Blue Versions Only.

Let me know if anybody has any to sell.

I am looking to buy Single Bulb Regular T8 Freshwater Light Fixtures in the Following Sizes:

36"
48"

I will also be at the Lansing Frag Swap so I can buy them there.

[larryandlaura]

I will have those montis and the birds nest on your list for cheap.

[that Reef Guy]

I will have those montis and the birds nest on your list for cheap.
Are they big colonies or little frags?

How much are they?

Do you have any pictures that you can send me?

[lamnguyen1313]

Will anybody be bringing any of the following to this swap?

ACROPORA
Acropora Colonies on Rocks
Green Slimer (Colonies Only) (The Bigger the Better)
Oregon Tort

SERIATOPORA
ORA Green Bird's Nest
ORA Ponape Bird's Nest
ORA Birds of Paradise Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
ORA Hyacinth Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
ORA Pink Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
Any other Types of Bird's Nest

STYLOPHORA
ORA Pink Stylophora
ORA Purple Stylophora

POCILLOPORA
Pink Pocillopora
Green Pocillopora

MONTIPORA
Jedi Mind Trick
Rainbow
Reverse Superman
Superman
Poker Star
Sunset
True Undata
Confusa
Tyree Flower Petal Montipora
Tyree Idaho Grape
ORA Purple
ORA Orange Digitata
ORA Green Digitata
ORA German Blue Digitata
ORA Purple Digitata
ORA Supernatural Capricornis
ORA Jeremy's Montipora
ORA Elkhorn Montipora
Green Cap
Purple Cap
Any type of Plating Montipora

CHALICE
Watermelon Chalice
My Miami Chalice
Hollywood Stunner Chalice
Any other Chalices

ACAN
Acan Enchinata
Any other Acans (Especially Blue Acans)

FAVIA
Dragon Soul
Any other Type of Favia

MUSHROOM
Ricordea

ZOANTHIDS
Rastas
Fruitloops
Emeralds on Fire
Tubbs Blue
Kedd's Reds
Red Hornet
Blue Hornet
Purple Hornet
Yellow Hornet
Any other Hornet Zoanthids
Any Yellow Zoanthids

PLATE CORAL
Neon Green Plate (Smaller the Better)
Cool Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)
Multi Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)

CLAMS
Derasa
Any Blue Clams

ANEMONE
Rock Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones)
Flower Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones)

OTHER STUFF
Clean Up Crew (Hermit Crabs, Snails)

I am looking to buy Ecoxotic Stunner Strip LED's in all Sizes.

12"
24"
36"
48"

I am only looking for All Blue Versions Only.

Let me know if anybody has any to sell.

I am looking to buy Single Bulb Regular T8 Freshwater Light Fixtures in the Following Sizes:

36"
48"

I will also be at the Lansing Frag Swap so I can buy them there.
I have a lot, what ones are you looking for?
-My miami
-miami hurricane
-ron burgundy
-grape watermelon
-pink boobie
-hcc hybird watermelon
-golden eye
-rasfarian echino
-raspberry bubble yum
-red pink
-tyree four color
also blue hornets and rastas

[REEF240]

Put me down for a table! I can't wait, this expo is a blast.
I'm confused maybe u can help. This is the first year I have wanted to sell corals at the swap. So I would have to get a 50$ table and do a donation item for the raffle or r their other options for captive reef members? I remember there here empty tables last year for people to sell pre sale items. Just trying to get things figured out before the swap. I have so many frags to get rid of. Any info would be helpful.

[jimsflies]

We don't have free tables for general trading per se. However, as an attendee you can walk in with frags to see if you can find trades or buyers. Obviously with a large quantity of frags, this isn't very effective and in those cases we recommend a reserving a table. Pricing is set on the tables to cover the hall cost as well other miscellaneous costs e.g., printing, advertising, etc. The clubs use the raffle (which includes the vendor donations) and door entry as a fundraiser to support club activities.

[larryandlaura]

I'm confused maybe u can help. This is the first year I have wanted to sell corals at the swap. So I would have to get a 50$ table and do a donation item for the raffle or r their other options for captive reef members? I remember there here empty tables last year for people to sell pre sale items. Just trying to get things figured out before the swap. I have so many frags to get rid of. Any info would be helpful.

Jim just answered for me Lol. Your best bet is a table. Or carry a cooler and sell a few frags. If you have any mode questions let me know!

[dputt88]

hey FYI i am doing my trade only table again this year. i already have a lot more frags than i did last time, much higher quality stuff too. so this time there should be a good spread of softies sps and nems.

[that Reef Guy]

Jim,

Will there be any Talks this year like there were last year?

If so do you know the Topics or the Speakers yet?

I really enjoyed them.

[that Reef Guy]

hey FYI i am doing my trade only table again this year. i already have a lot more frags than i did last time, much higher quality stuff too. so this time there should be a good spread of softies sps and nems.

Cool your Trade Table was a Fun Idea and something Different.

I am glad that you are doing it again. :big_grin:

[BlackGrandPrix]

Alright just snagged table #19 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=19) . Im already making up frags for this year.

[ebushrow]

I'll have lots of favias, a couple of plates, a lot of different acans and if I can frag it, a pectina that is really cool long with bunch of no name killer chalices and shrooms.

I'll be posting stuff the end of December and January for pre-Sale if you want

Will anybody be bringing any of the following to this swap?
ACROPORA
Acropora Colonies on Rocks
Green Slimer (Colonies Only) (The Bigger the Better)
Oregon Tort

SERIATOPORA
ORA Green Bird's Nest
ORA Ponape Bird's Nest
ORA Birds of Paradise Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
ORA Hyacinth Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
ORA Pink Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies - 3" to 4" or Bigger)
Any other Types of Bird's Nest

STYLOPHORA
ORA Pink Stylophora
ORA Purple Stylophora

POCILLOPORA
Pink Pocillopora
Green Pocillopora

MONTIPORA
Jedi Mind Trick
Rainbow
Reverse Superman
Superman
Poker Star
Sunset
True Undata
Confusa
Tyree Flower Petal Montipora
Tyree Idaho Grape
ORA Purple
ORA Orange Digitata
ORA Green Digitata
ORA German Blue Digitata
ORA Purple Digitata
ORA Supernatural Capricornis
ORA Jeremy's Montipora
ORA Elkhorn Montipora
Green Cap
Purple Cap
Any type of Plating Montipora

CHALICE
Watermelon Chalice
My Miami Chalice
Hollywood Stunner Chalice
Any other Chalices

ACAN
Acan Enchinata
Any other Acans (Especially Blue Acans)

FAVIA
Dragon Soul
Any other Type of Favia

MUSHROOM
Ricordea

ZOANTHIDS
Rastas
Fruitloops
Emeralds on Fire
Tubbs Blue
Kedd's Reds
Red Hornet
Blue Hornet
Purple Hornet
Yellow Hornet
Any other Hornet Zoanthids
Any Yellow Zoanthids

[B]PLATE CORAL
Neon Green Plate (Smaller the Better)
Cool Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)
Multi Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)

CLAMS
Derasa
Any Blue Clams

ANEMONE
Rock Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones)
Flower Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones)

OTHER STUFF
Clean Up Crew (Hermit Crabs, Snails)

I am looking to buy Ecoxotic Stunner Strip LED's in all Sizes.

12"
24"
36"
48"

I am only looking for All Blue Versions Only.

Let me know if anybody has any to sell.

I am looking to buy Single Bulb Regular T8 Freshwater Light Fixtures in the Following Sizes:

36"
48"

I will also be at the Lansing Frag Swap so I can buy them there.

[that Reef Guy]

2 New Corals I am looking for:

German Blue Montipora Digitata
Forest Fire Montipora Digitata

[medeleric11]

That reef guy I'll have them both.

[2FarNorth]

Is there a layout map showing the vendors on it? Other then the one with the table numbers?

[jimsflies]

I'll work on getting an updated map posted. Probably won't be until next week though. Last I checked we have about 8 full tables remaining and 7-8 half tables. I think there is also one or two of the corner-end cap locations available as well.

[larryandlaura]

Can't wait to see the update Jim.

[jimsflies]

Sorry for the delay....here is the updated list of attending vendors and available booths:

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout-reserved.png

[ebushrow]

I can't believe it's not sold out already....

If anyone is looking for something that's hard to get, please let me know.

[larryandlaura]

Are the grey tables sold then?

[jimsflies]

I can't believe it's not sold out already....

We're getting there. Should be a sold out event.


Are the grey tables sold then?

yessir...

[Coral Frenzy]

Coral Frenzy just took table 20 so get ready for some FREE samples!!!!!!

[Dmmz]

I am ready

[larryandlaura]

Coral Frenzy just took table 20 so get ready for some FREE samples!!!!!!

Awesome I'm dieing to try the new pellets, we already use the powder.

[Coral Frenzy]

Awesome I'm dieing to try the new pellets, we already use the powder.

I'll be sending you a sample. :) I can wait to hear what you think about it.

[Sir Patrick]

Maybe I can get the 150 set up before this swap....

I am looking forward to this event.

[MizTanks]

Maybe I can get the 150 set up before this swap....



I am looking forward to this event.


Some reason Welcome Back Kotter is playing in my head ;)


Sent from my iPhone 4s via Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1).

[youngtimothy]

When is the what are you bringing thread going to start? I think I can finally make this one!

[jimsflies]

For you fragswappers, this event is now on FragSwapper.com (http://www.fragswapper.com). Some members like to use that site to arrange trades.

You can also arrange your trades and purchases right here on CR:
What are you bringing to Michigan Coral Expo & Swap? - 2/16/14 | Swap | Reef Tank Reefing Events (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/reefing-events/what-you-bringing-michigan-coral-expo-swap-2-16-14-a-30911)

[Dmmz]

I will take my chances just going to the swap presale takes the fun of the swap away for me and if I don't find something I want my local reef shop is like a swap everyday ;)

Sent from my KFTT using Tapatalk 2

[ReefTech]

trust me, this swap never disappoints.

[creefer]

trust me, this swap never disappoints.

So true!!! This will be the first year since I've been reefing that I'll miss it. I'm bummed about it, but what I'm doing makes the wife happy so all is good.

[ReefHero]

I still don't see cherry corals as a vendor..... Are they not coming this year??


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

[jimsflies]

So far, they haven't signed up.

I know they are thinking about it still.

[ReefHero]

Hmmm.....last year they had a huge display of coral! Not sure what there would be to still think about.....



Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

[jimsflies]

Yeah right! I hear you.

Maybe they're getting too big to take their corals for car rides anymore? :pink-cadillac:

[ReefHero]

Frag swaps are all about hobbyists, vendors, and whoever enjoys the hobby in general. If I was a vendor naturally I would want to make some big $$$ but for a few of them I think most of their sales are probably all online.....and perhaps they didn't make as much $$$ as they thought from previous swaps. But come on!! Don't bring as much then.....some low end, some high end....something! Or just show up lol



Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

[wenwillwego]

Lectures! Lectures! Lectures!

I loved the talks last year, any word on more of that?

[buk]

has there been any talk on price of admission and duration of the swap this year?

[jimsflies]

Here's an updated map. Still a few whole tables available but starting to go quick!

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout-reserved.png

[jimsflies]

Here is an updated layout with attending vendors...(note I am just replacing the file on the server with an updated one, so all of the posts of this layout will look the same. You may have to hit refresh a couple times to verify you have the latest version from the server and not a cached version on your computer).

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout-reserved.png


#mces (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mces)

[jimsflies]

Here's an updated vendor list. If you're viewing this and the updated date isn't today's date or newer, you may have a cached version and will need to do a "hard refresh" (empty your cache) to load the newest layout.

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout-reserved.png

#mces ("http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mces"=)

[jimsflies]

We've had several questions about what time the swap starts. A full schedule will be posted soon but here is the rough itinerary:

We will have a couple speakers this year. Attendees of the morning talks will be given priority entrance over those already in line (i.e., early admission). Speakers will start at 10:30.

The swap doors open to the public at noon and the swap goes until 4:30.

[jimsflies]

More clarification....

We have room for about 70 people in the talk. So if you are coming to that, I would suggest getting there before 10 am, we'll have you stand in a line and collect the admission for the swap at that time. Once through that line, you'll be able to be seated in the conference room for the speaker which will start at 10:30. At 11:30, attendees of the talk will be allowed into the swap.


If we have more than 70 attendees for the talk, unfortunately you will have to wait until the swap officially opens to the public to get in. We will allow everyone else in the swap at starting at noon.


For the fastest entry, we request that you have exact change (admission is $10 each, kids 16 and under free) when going through the admissions desk.

[ReefHero]

Oh man..... I'm gonna have to get there early!!! :)

[MatthewM]

Me and dmmz are going to be coming early. Can not wait! U should stop by at the blue glow table. He always has awesome frags!

[that Reef Guy]

I added a few things to my want list. Let me know if you have any of these for sale.

Tyree Pink Lemonade Acropora
Purple Bonsai Acropora

Gold Torch Euphyllia

My Clementines Zoanthid

Yuma Mushrooms
Rhodactis Mushrooms - Colorful ones

Rock Flower Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones).

[that Reef Guy]

Does anybody know who the Speakers are or their Topics?

[jimsflies]

Does anybody know who the Speakers are or their Topics?

We hope to post this information very soon...had a few last minute changes and want to be sure to post accurate info.

[jimsflies]

The itinerary for the 2014 Michigan Coral Expo & Swap is as follows:


10:00: Admission for morning speaker session
10:30-11:30: Speaker #1 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=1) - Rick Preuss
11:30-12:00: early exhibition hall admission for morning speaker attendees
12:00: doors open to exhibition hall for general admission
1:30: early raffle (main exhibition hall)
2:00-2:30: Speaker #2 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=2) - Joy Meadows
3:30: raffle (main exhibition hall)
4:30: end




Speaker #1 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=1) (10:30-11:30am Imperial Room - space limited to 70 people)
Rick Preuss: Brick & Mortar Fun - The Impossible Journey of Preuss Pets
http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k621/jimsflies/a108f073-e7c2-4835-9718-5a524335c21d_zps49dc1848.jpg
Rick Preuss is an owner and operator of Preuss Pets (http://www.preusspets.com) in Lansing, Michigan which has been operating for 32 years. Preuss Pets has grown into a destination location in Lansing, MI. With an emphasis on education and humane treatment of animals, Preuss has won numerous awards for customer service and education locally, nationally and internationally.

Rick has been in the LFS business since he was 5 years old! Rick is known as one of the leading fish experts in Michigan and was recently invited to participate as part of a conservation education effort with the Michigan DNR project involving lake sturgeon. Rick was a speaker at MACNA in Louisville in 2003 where his presentation topic focused on the educational benefits of reef aquariums in classrooms. Preuss Pets was the first MAC certified (http://www.aquariumcouncil.org/Product_Services.aspx?tab=p2) retailer in the world. Rick also hosts his own weekly radio show, Mid-Michigan Pet Expert Talk Show, on 1320 WLNS in Lansing.


We'll be posting a bio for Joy Meadows and her subject for the afternoon presentation soon.

#mces (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mces) , #mmmc (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mmmc)

[dputt88]

when can vendors start setting up on saturday???

[jimsflies]

when can vendors start setting up on saturday???

Vendor setup times are as follows:

Saturday Night: 7:00pm - 10:30pm
Sunday Morning: 8:30am - 12:00pm

#mces (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mces) , #mmmc (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mmmc)

[fishdoc1]

Table #19 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=19) , Dude, I have been operating as The Fish Doctors, Inc. locally since 1989.

Please use a different name when you are here in Michigan.

It is confusing for our customers, and frankly, disrespectful.

Sincerely,

Tom Campbell
President and Founder
The Fish Doctors, Inc.

[Coral Frenzy]

Table #19 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=19) , Dude, I have been operating as The Fish Doctors, Inc. locally since 1989.

Please use a different name when you are here in Michigan.

It is confusing for our customers, and frankly, disrespectful.

Sincerely,

Tom Campbell
President and Founder
The Fish Doctors, Inc.

Tom - I actually thought it was you when it saw it on there.

[Hopkins]

There should be a battle royale for the use of the name Fish Doctor in Michigan. Jim, ready the Thunderdome! Two doctors enter, one walks out.

Seriously though, maybe there should be a disclaimer Fish Doctor is not associated with The Fish Doctors Inc.

[dputt88]

i thought it was fish doctors inc. as well

[jimsflies]

Fish Doctor is not associated with The Fish Doctors Inc.

To avoid further confusion I have updated the table map.

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout-reserved.png

[Sir Patrick]

There is only one Fish Doctor, in Michigan, and they sponsor sites like this one. Impostors should step aside and at least change names, when enfringment comes into play.

Hate to see this escalate larger than it has too, for all involved.

[Sir Patrick]

i thought it was fish doctors inc. as well

When you meet them, and see what they bring to the swap, you will quickly realize they are not, if you have been to any of their stores.

Sorry to any and all that were mislead. many, many are and have been, for the past couple years.

[Sir Patrick]

Tom - I actually thought it was you when it saw it on there.

Sorry you were mislead.

Me, being a long term coustomer, and employee of sorts, was confused also.

Sorry to hear this information was misleading. I am hoping it will be resolved.

[Sir Patrick]

There should be a battle royale for the use of the name Fish Doctor in Michigan. Jim, ready the Thunderdome! Two doctors enter, one walks out.

Seriously though, maybe there should be a disclaimer Fish Doctor is not associated with The Fish Doctors Inc.

It goes much deeper than a disclaimer......unfortunately. I am hoping this gets worked out in a much more profesional matter than a "Thundedome" as is the ownership of one of our sponsors, here at captive reefes, and other sites this information has been posted on.

[jimsflies]

Here's the latest update to the swap map. Be sure when you view it that the updated date is 2/8/14 (or later). If its not you may need to clear your cache to see the most recent version.

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout-reserved.png

#mces (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mces)

[Sir Patrick]

Wondering-

Is there a discount for swap attendees for hotel rooms? Thinking about staying the night. Figured I would find out before booking.

[jimsflies]

I think there is a group rate...can't recall it off the top of my head. Maybe MyNemesis knows?

[CalmSeasQuest]

Wondering-

Is there a discount for swap attendees for hotel rooms? Thinking about staying the night. Figured I would find out before booking.
I grabbed the Presidential suite for Saturday night - Thought it might be a good time for TREAD2 :)

[Sir Patrick]

I grabbed the Presidential suite for Saturday night - Thought it might be a good time for TREAD2 :)

If I manage to swing a room, count me in for TREAD2!! Hope the bar has some good Michigan beers, or some interesting IPA's.

[dputt88]

we will be staying Saturday night as well, hope to see everyone at the bar!

though unfourtunately my swap tank cracked, didnt find out until yesterday. have to figure something out quick.

[ccbeauch]

So I recently dove into this hobby and bought a fully cycled tank off of craigslist a few weeks ago. I had discus for a while and loved them but sold them off due to traveling at the time. Now I'm staying in the state more often and wanted to joine the NaCl side of the hobby for a while. This will be my first swap and I was unsure what to bring if I want to get some corals seeing as I only have a couple of small ones that came with the tank. Thanks!

[dputt88]

So I recently dove into this hobby and bought a fully cycled tank off of craigslist a few weeks ago. I had discus for a while and loved them but sold them off due to traveling at the time. Now I'm staying in the state more often and wanted to joine the NaCl side of the hobby for a while. This will be my first swap and I was unsure what to bring if I want to get some corals seeing as I only have a couple of small ones that came with the tank. Thanks!


bring a cooler and money

[dputt88]

ok so i bought a new pane of glass and re siliconed the tank, held water for 5 hours today. i guess im back in the game!!!!

[eveningstar15]

bring a cooler and money

What is the cooler for???

[Dmmz]

Cooler is for frags

[msumatt]

So I recently dove into this hobby and bought a fully cycled tank off of craigslist a few weeks ago. I had discus for a while and loved them but sold them off due to traveling at the time. Now I'm staying in the state more often and wanted to joine the NaCl side of the hobby for a while. This will be my first swap and I was unsure what to bring if I want to get some corals seeing as I only have a couple of small ones that came with the tank. Thanks!

You might want to avoid the swap unless you want to be hooked on this hobby (no pun intended). The Lansing swap was my first swap 3 years ago, and I've been addicted ever since!

[dlhirst]

You want to keep the frags (and any fish, inverts, &c.) that you buy warm for the ride home. So, don't fill up the cooler with beers, you want warmth and plenty of space, as frags will be packed in bags full of water. And trust me, the frags that you want will far outlast the amount of money you bring. Make it a large cooler!

[ccbeauch]

a Styrofoam cooler or just any cooler will do? And can I buy the frags at the beginning of the day and come back for them later so that I can listen to the second fella talk? Also, what type of price range is there? I was hoping cheap cus I'm new and might kill some stuff off. Not pessimistic, just reasonable.

[msumatt]

a Styrofoam cooler or just any cooler will do? And can I buy the frags at the beginning of the day and come back for them later so that I can listen to the second fella talk? Also, what type of price range is there? I was hoping cheap cus I'm new and might kill some stuff off. Not pessimistic, just reasonable.

I hate to say, but the answer for the price range will be it depends. Broadly, I've seen things from $5 up to a few hundred, so it will depend on the particular coral you'd like. The longer you pursue the hobby, the more comfortable you'll get with the high cost/high reward for a coral (for better or worse). For example, I bought a beautiful leptoseris last year for $250. It was dead within a week or two. :( As long as that type of purchase is rare though, you'll be alright. Of course, you're welcome to come past my table (#29) I can tell you that the range of cost for my corals would be between $5 and around $100. ;)

[ebushrow]

I have pairs of Davinci (100), Mocha (50), and Blacker Ice (100) clown fish available if anyone wants them....

[dputt88]

a Styrofoam cooler or just any cooler will do? And can I buy the frags at the beginning of the day and come back for them later so that I can listen to the second fella talk? Also, what type of price range is there? I was hoping cheap cus I'm new and might kill some stuff off. Not pessimistic, just reasonable.

you'll see lots of $5-$15 dollar pieces, you'll also see lots of $40-65 dollar pieces. either way you will find plenty to buy. i have never come home from a swap with anything less than a cooler full...

my table ( table 9) always welcomes trades and i have many pieces from $5-$20.

for the cooler, anything is fine some bring the full size beer coolerrs, some just small styrofoam ones, depends on how much you plan to buy/sell.

no matter what swaps always have the best prices.

[msumatt]

That's definitely true. Swap prices are always lower than a similar piece at a shop or online.

[Dmmz]

I am always told by the place I buy most of my coral that it's like a swap everyday :)

[that Reef Guy]

I am always told by the place I buy most of my coral that it's like a swap everyday :)

Where is that?

[Dmmz]

Andy at Reef Paradise says that

[ccbeauch]

I see that is in Flint. Is that an okay area of Flint? Not sure if there is even one of those. I was raised in Detroit area and go to school in Saginaw so Its not like I'm from the country. Just want to make sure if I take a trip there that my car is still there when I want to bring my corals back home.

[Dmmz]

I go there all he time never had a problem

[ReefTech]

I go there all he time never had a problem

I've visited the store 100+ times and never had any issues with safety. Usually from open to close as well, hanging out with Andy and discussing all that is reefing. If you are concerned with safety, there are security cameras around the building that are monitored right from the counter. Trust me, make the trip, as soon as you step foot into Reef Paradise you'll stop worrying about your car. There's to much coral to drool over. :hypnotized:

[Dmmz]

If your car gets stolen and you buy enough coral Andy might give you a ride home ;)

[Dmmz]

Only 3 more days can't wait

[that Reef Guy]

Here is my Finalized List of Wanted Corals.

Will anybody be bringing any of the following to this swap?

ACROPORA
Acropora Colonies on Rocks
Green Slimer (Colonies Only) (The Bigger the Better)
Tyree Pink Lemonade
Purple Bonsai
Oregon Tort

SERIATOPORA
ORA Green Bird's Nest
ORA Ponape Bird's Nest
ORA Birds of Paradise Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies NOT Frags of this Coral)
ORA Hyacinth Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies NOT Frags of this Coral)
ORA Pink Bird's Nest (Looking for Colonies NOT Frags of this Coral)
Any other Types of Bird's Nest

STYLOPHORA
ORA Pink Stylophora
ORA Purple Stylophora

POCILLOPORA
Pink Pocillopora
Green Pocillopora

MONTIPORA
Jedi Mind Trick
Rainbow
Reverse Superman
Superman
Poker Star
Sunset
True Undata
Confusa
Tyree Flower Petal Montipora
Tyree Idaho Grape
ORA Purple
ORA Orange Digitata
ORA Green Digitata
ORA German Blue Digitata
ORA Purple Digitata
ORA Supernatural Capricornis
ORA Jeremy's Montipora
ORA Elkhorn Montipora
Forest Fire Digitata
Green Cap
Purple Cap
Any type of Plating Montipora

CHALICE
Watermelon Chalice
Mummy Eye Chalice
Miami Hurricane Chalice
My Miami Chalice
Hollywood Stunner Chalice
Any other Chalices

ACAN
Acan Enchinata
Any other Acans (Especially Blue Acans)

FAVIA
Dragon Soul
Any other Type of Favia

EUPHYLLIA
FrogSpawn
Hammer
Torch
Yellow Hammer
Yellow Splatter Hammer
Gold Torch
Yellow Torch
Bright Green Torch with Blue/Purple Tips
I am looking for both Low and High End Varieties of Euphyllia

MUSHROOM
Ricordea
Yuma
Rhodactis - Colorful ones

ZOANTHIDS
Rastas
My Clementines
Fruitloops
Emeralds on Fire
Smurf's Blood
L.A. Lakers
Tubbs Blue
Kedd's Reds
Red Hornet
Blue Hornet
Purple Hornet
Yellow Hornet
Any other Hornet Zoanthids
Any Yellow Zoanthids

PLATE CORAL
Neon Green Plate (Smaller the Better)
Cool Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)
Multi Colored Plates (Smaller the Better)

CLAMS
Derasa
Any Blue Clams

ANEMONE
Rock Flower Anemone (The ones that looks nice under Blue LED, not the common Ugly ones)

OTHER STUFF
Clean Up Crew (Hermit Crabs, Snails)

I am looking to buy Ecoxotic Stunner Strip LED's in all Sizes.

12"
24"
36"
48"

I am only looking for All Blue Versions Only.

Let me know if anybody has any to sell.

I am looking to buy Single Bulb Regular T8 Freshwater Light Fixtures in the Following Sizes:

36"
48"

I will also be at the Lansing Frag Swap so I can buy them there.

[MIReeferChick]

I saw nothing on the cost to get in to the swap. Adult and kid prices? Thanks!

[dputt88]

I saw nothing on the cost to get in to the swap. Adult and kid prices? Thanks!

adults are $5 i believe, kids are free

[eveningstar15]

adults are $5 i believe, kids are free

I thought adults were $10

[dputt88]

I thought adults were $10

i could be wrong

[jimsflies]

Final vendor map...refresh your cache if you don't see 2/14/14.

http://www.mi-reefs.org/coral-images/mces-2014-layout.png

#mces (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/usertag.php?do=list&action=hash&hash=mces)

[ccbeauch]

Anyone selling any nano equipment like a small protein skimmer or led refugium light? Also, anyone selling any skunk cleaner shrimp?

[jimsflies]

For those that are asking, our second presenter in the afternoon will be Joy Meadows who will be talking about advances in Reef Lighting.


Joy Meadows has been an avid aquarium hobbyist for nearly 4 decades. Her vast experience in our industry has made her a welcome asset to the Reef Brite Team of professionals.

In 1996 her and her husband Gary Meadows who was well regarded in our industry formed one of the first commercial/ retail online companies to sell live rock, corals, calms and other assorted invertebrates to the public. The greenhouse facility was the first facility of its kind and helped set the standard for livestock facilities of today. Her intuitive use of lighting began during the design phase of Harbor Aquatics and continues to this day. Harbor Aquatics was so highly regarded for the quality of their livestock it became the ground for many aquarium products sold in our industry today.

In 2002 a professional friendship was formed when Joy Meadows was introduced to LED lighting designer Tullio DellAquila who was demonstrating his LED systems to aquarist and informing them on the benefits of LED moon light. Joy instantly recognized the benefits and potential of LED systems and regularly displayed Tullio Dell Aquila’s designs at her booths as well as implementing LED moon lights at the Harbor Aquatic facility.

In 2006 Joy Meadows teamed up with PFO Lighting to launch the Solaris one of the first full spectrum LED lighting systems of its kind. Joy was instrumental in the marketing of the Solaris LED system and in gaining widespread acceptance of LED aquarium technology by hobbyist and professionals alike.

In 2008 Joy Meadows once again teamed up with Tullio DellAquila and Jack Jiang to form what is now known as Reef Brite.

[ReefTech]

jimsflies.... what time are you showing up to get things set up?

[ReefTech]

I also have two kessil leds up for sale. only 6 months of use on each fixture.
Kessil 350w tuna blue
http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh553/brotherguns29/20140215_154435_zpsb3655dd5.jpg (http://s1251.photobucket.com/user/brotherguns29/media/20140215_154435_zpsb3655dd5.jpg.html)
http://i1251.photobucket.com/albums/hh553/brotherguns29/20140215_154452_zps8e9e7dd5.jpg (http://s1251.photobucket.com/user/brotherguns29/media/20140215_154452_zps8e9e7dd5.jpg.html)

These retail @ 399 a fixture
asking 200 for each or 350 for both fixtures.
Please pm if interested and I can bring them with me to the swap tomorrow.

[that Reef Guy]

Can't wait!

[Dmmz]

It's finally swap day!! going to be heading out soon the place looked great last night see everybody there :)

[MatthewM]

Good luck on everyone doing the raffle today! :)

[Rpalt1]

enjoy everyone wish i was there

[MatthewM]

Enjoyed all the coral today and all were really cool! Great deals too! I will post pis of the stuff we got today on my thread so check it out! :)

[eveningstar15]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/17/y2a9e6am.jpg


I got a dendro at the swap!!!

[CalmSeasQuest]

GREAT Swap - Congrats to Jim and all of the MMMC for their hard work. Already looking forward to the A2 swap.

[that Reef Guy]

Great Swap.

Lots of nice stuff today.

When is the Next Swap - Ann Arbor?

[jimsflies]

Great Swap.

Lots of nice stuff today.

When is the Next Swap - Ann Arbor?

Here you go... :)

Ann Arbor Swap - Sunday March 30 - Save the date! (Dexter, MI): 03-30-2014 (http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/reefing-events/ann-arbor-swap-sunday-march-30-save-date-32208/)

[ReefHero]

Did anyone record Mr. Preuss from Preuss Pets? Very well done I thought.

[dlhirst]

Wanna say thanks to everyone at the MMMC for putting on such a great expo AGAIN. I know there is a lot of time and hard work that goes into one of these things, so I hope it was as successful for you as it seemed to be for all the attendees. Thanks too, to the vendors and their great deals. My tank will look better now because of you!

[ReefTech]

Want to say thank you to everyone that made this show possible and to all the vendors that participated. Saw a lot of familiar faces along with a lot of new ones as well. Had a great time running the frag-n-swag wheel at the CR booth. Will be posting everything that I picked up later on today.

[Detour]

Been in the hobby here for a while (although never long enough) and have had a chance to attend this swap a few times over the years - but this is the first since moving to this venue. It's definitely well laid out and easy to move around - and a great selection of vendors, raffle items, and items to drain the bank account.

My thanks to the folks that put in the time to plan, organize, setup, run, and tear down - events of this size aren't easy, and there is always one or two items that don't go as planned (like tanks that are set up the night before, and on the floor in the morning) - but as a participant coming in shortly after opening - all was smooth (and carpet dried...).

My thanks also to the various vendors that put in the time to prepare for and attend - logistics of moving around tanks, water, animals, bags, containers, lights, equipment, etc. - in Michigan weather - is a lot of work.

Good event - good people.

[Dmmz]

I helped with the setup the night before but the day if the swap just felt in the way.
The guys that have been doing this for awhile really have a great system in place thanks for all the hard work can't wait for the next one

[that Reef Guy]

Did anyone record Mr. Preuss from Preuss Pets? Very well done I thought.

Yes great lecture I would like to watch it again

Anybody have it please put it on YouTube for all to see

[ccbeauch]

So I bought a pulsing xenia and it isn't pulsing anymore. Not sure if that is bad or good. My rose bubble tip anemone is doing great though so I don't know what to do. Really don't want to just let it die. I have PC lighting in my Nano-cube DX and it has been up and running for a while with a mated pair of clowns. The skunk cleaner shrimp is doing fine too. Any ideas? I saw some people feed phytoplankton but most said it thrives without anything. Any suggestions? I'm rather new to this whole thing so any advice is good advice.

BTW loved my first swap and will probably go to the next one!

[natalialaloca]

This was my second swap, and I loved it even more than the one last year. (It didn't hurt that I brought a cooler this time.) Such a wonderful event. Thanks to all who put it together.