In a message dated 2/5/01 3:27:43 PM EST, WBINGHAM@imf.org writes:
<< get a whole corner, or a whole wall. Larry Black had a great Club Room/Refreshment Stand/Exhibit Hall set up, but it was in the next time zone. >>
Hey, we sent in the $ on time, asked for a double. Got there with my verticallyh integrated bicycle chandelier fixture that we made years ago the correct dimension for the ceiling. Whups, I found myself halfway to Union Bridge! No hanging space, and you needed a shuttle to get there! Jill and I pondered, started feeling sour grapish, but decide to make lemonade out of the lemons. Actually, it was a blessing, a major blessing.
We became good finders, something she has taught me for years and I applied. I noticed the serene pastoral landscape through the low picture windows. I noticed how quiet the low ceiling made things, so people could enjoy the lounge and the variety of classic rock, tchaikowsky,and Jazz by my favorites Charlie Parker and Dave Brubeck. The mission was a sduccess for us We dispensed most of our local fresh cider as well as two flavors of chips, sweet baby carrots with four varieties of veggie dips, some tasty mini crackers and animal cookies.
The assortment of classic paraphernalia aroused emotion and delight in those young enough to remember racing on it and those born long after it had been retired.
A welcome neighbor was Bobby the Baltimore Bullet Phillips, with whom I'd been racing for years. He had an interesting collection of goodies and we swapped stories and anecdotal tales.
It was to our benefit to be a 'destination' location. Like my shop here in Mt Airy We built, they came. If it were the vanilla ice cream and cookie-cutter shop selling the mundane, we simply would not have the visitors we do AND, we don't have to deal with many of the 'stumble-ins' we do in College Park. Not that we don't accept all comers, but the natural filter of distance assures those who come didn't get here by accident or mistake. Worked well at the schwap as well. Didn't get a lotta gbrease paws dipping into the treats, not that we weren't generous. We actually wanted give out more
Now I'll have to eat carrits for a weeki and my kids will get more zits eating the Doritos.
In Retrospect, it was a great event, and we didn't have to worry about where the cash was. By the way, we did go home heavier by about 6 bikes and three sets of rollers. And due to heavy demand, we relented and sold a few large items to pay for the booth, the trip, and a hot ,meal for the crew.
Thanks to all who stopped by for a nosh
On behalf of Ryan, Jill, and the 'extras' who lent a hand, a heartfelt 'Thanks ' for the assistance.
Larry