Rule #1 of any hamfest: If you're going there to buy, come prepared. Bring plenty of cash, a hand truck, a pickup truck, etc. Along with what MrMike says about the ATM requiring a phone line, they also require refilling. If you think not having an ATM is bad, imagine having one that the person ahead of you in line runs out of cash.
This might be my last one, as the disorganization of where the food vendors are and the meandering trek one has to take to see any/all sellers is getting old - fast! it's beautiful country, yes, but not why people go to these events. and please let the fairgrounds folks we will not steal the picnic tables - in May they were bolted and unuseable - would be nice to rest after a day of walking.
It sounds like you're more adjusted to mall shopping with a food court, Radio shack, and benches than attending a hamfest. Folks who have been going to these events for many years seem to be able to manage just fine, some even bring chairs with them. Okay, many do. Even with a somewhat smaller footprint than the old Deerfield 'fests, there's still a lot of ground to cover over the two days. Next you'll be telling us you don't like it when it rains.
And lastly; We are all electronic enthusiasts - can someone figure out a way to get a decent PA system up and running so that one can hear and understand any/all info messages from the hinterlands that people set up way way way beyond the relaxation area?? as it is - it's great if you're within 100 ft of the rest area, otherwise nothing!!
I disagree with your first statement: it goes well beyond simply being an enthusiast for the thousands who have attended this 'fest and its predecessor going on 4 decades now. We look forward to it far more than a trip to a mall, yard sale, flea market, and most major holidays. It's not the location or convenience or opportunity to get a deal, it's the people and the atmosphere that make it what it is. It's an experience beyond simply the electronics that is slowly fading from life, something we want to preserve for as long as possible.
As far as the PA goes, rest assured that MANY more people complained about what seemed like endless PA announcements in the past constantly interrupting their conversations. The schedule of events and map posted around the 'fest and handed out at the gate should answer most questions, and if you're interested in door prizes, just hang around the Relaxation Grove area when a drawing is scheduled. Beyond that, the PA system is mainly for reminders.
other than these areas, its a great time to meet old buddies and play at the friday nite jam session!!
Which really has nothing at all to do with Electronic enthusiasts or a hamfest, but is something we enjoyed in past years as an impromptu event and decided to incorporate into NEAR-Fest. There were some people who didn't want it at all, complained about it, wanted it removed. Fortunately for all of us, it's not practical to tailor the event to individual preferences. We try to provide something for everyone relating to our perspective of past events and the memories of what worked and what didn't. Honestly, those of us who put on the event would LOVE the freedom to do nothing but wander the grounds without being called away for questions or the little problems that arise. We accept that inconvenience if favor of keeping such an event alive for others like you to enjoy in the way that we have for so many years. While you may not find everything to your liking, you won't find another event like it.
It's what you make it. Plan for it in advance, and enjoy the very brief chance to see old friends, old gear, and to have fun in an old New England fairground.
