>. Meeting rooms? Can't just meet in a hangar or at a local library? +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
We used meeting rooms for forums at Mt.Vernon, 4 or more over two days. Attendees want to gather as much info and get as much KR exposure as possible at the Gathering. That's their reason for traveling half way or more across the country to get there. It's also to see the friends they've made over the years at prior Gatherings. It's like KR homecoming. :-) Forums and demonstrations can be done in a hangar or other facilities if you can make it work. A PA system is the primary requirement for that. I even had a PA in the meeting room. If I can't hear the speaker I just as well not be there. An award banquet is the traditional close to the Gathering on Saturday evening. Have it in the hangar if you want to listen to attendees complain about the heat and the fly in their meal. It could be different like an outdoor set down cookout if you can make it work. I attended 14 Gatherings before hosting at Mt.Vernon 9 of 10 years running and enjoyed every one and each one was different. Some better, some worse. The Mt.Vernon facilities and support elevated the event to a new level. Multiple runways, large ramp, air conditioned terminal with conference room, restaurant in the terminal, banquet in the terminal catered by the restaurant, large free hangar for the KR's, camping on airport within walking distance of the terminal with the airport manager supplying the wood for fire, and did I mention no tower. Attendance was usually good so we were able to grow the working fund to $5000 and I made a complete financial report each year which is still posted on the web page. Not many locations will match Mt.Vernon in all areas but others may have other strong points. These are just items to consider when deciding to host a Gathering. Variety is also good so Mt.Vernon may not be the answer every year. But then there is Oshkosh and it seems to be working. I hosted 9 Gathering at Mt.Vernon so maybe it's time for some new ideas. Not sure I'm up for number 10 but I would be willing to help out. I made 24 Gatherings without a miss before California last year and have not made plans to attend McMinnville this year. It's a great area (been there, my daughter lives in Portland ) and if you don't see the Spruce Goose while you're there you missed the opportunity of a life time. Pay the extra fee to go up and set in the cockpit. So, that's my story on KR Gatherings. Make them as easy as possible for everyone to attend, impart as much KR info and exposure as possible in a short time frame, and make it as enjoyable and hassle free as possible for everyone attending. Did I leave anything out? Larry Flesner
