[AT] Portland Set Up Reconsidered

[steve sewell]

>
>    My view is that the changes in the display area were very premature 
> and the necessary changes and improvements should have been made before 
> redesigning the areas.
>
>        Gene Dotson,  ATIS Wagonmaster for FATG.


I agree 100%. We need the tractors out back where we can take advantage of 
the acreage they bought to 'play' on BUT it needs to be smoothed up and 
better access for all. While I would like to go back to the tree area I 
don't know if that is the answer or not. While you could belt up to the 
thrashing units , sawmill or buzz saw, as Gene and I do,if they were back 
in the old location. It would be impossible to make it past the crowds 
walking to get back to the plow area or tractor parade on Friday or 
Saturday with a tractor.  It is a problem, not enough 'good/shaded' area , 
too many folks wanting to show and have a good time.

Short term answer might to put it back like it was for a few years. Expand 
the tractor area out into the parking area to the paved main entrance. Then 
put a "tractor driving road" around the north end of the grounds to the 
plow area. Long term answer is to develop the east area with camping, 
restrooms an entrance and some trees.. Put the 'tractor' show there and the 
'engine' show on the fairgrounds.
Money would solve this - Dave maybe as you are retired you would have the 
time to apply for a Federal grant for this work. (-;

- Steve

PS : 10 degrees as I type. We went from rain and 36 degrees at 3AM this 
morn to 19 degrees at 6AM. Lots of ice and a little snow. August and 
Portland are only 6 months away - I can't wait!! (-;