Relying on the hope that someone mentions it in their column isn't getting the word out proactively.
You assume that the ED didn't know the mention was coming. Maybe they did.
A mention in a column can be more valuable than an advertisement.
I will agree that notices to the magazines should have gone out.
You might be surprised about how often that is missed by show promoters.
The folks who have been doing a nice job of running the Eastern Division show as a closed one may not appreciate what should be done to promote an open show which includes:
Show notices to all the toy / train magazines (most have a schedule of shows column)
Flyers to area hobby shops and at other area shows. (flyer needs to be well designed / eye catching)
Press releases to all newspapers, radio stations and TV stations in the target areas
In the case of the ED/TCA, I'd include press releases to the toy / model train magazines too
Display advertising in appropriate local papers, usually the Sunday before the show (very expensive)
Then there is the possibility of billboards and lawn signs in the area of the show.
We didn't do this when I was involved, but it is commonly done for shows in my area now, and seems to be very effective.
