Impressions of the Midwest Expo

[Jerry B.]

I am very glad our small traveling troop of phono nerds, Stan, Dan, and myself, drove from Oregon to the very first Midwest Expo. I think APS and, in particular, the APS Midwest Expo Committee did an outstanding job and hit the mark on so many details. The venue was outstanding. As you've seen from the photos the hall was very large, climate controlled, and perfect. I can't express how nice it is to jump in the elevator to get to your room to relax and regenerate. Rooms came with breakfast vouchers and the staff was as attentive as any I've ever experienced. The Saturday banquet was well attended. The buffet featured a variety of dishes and the desert was world class. Speeches were short and to the point, the Dixieland Jazz Band was terrific, and the silent auction featured quite a variety of goodies. I was most pleased that the Donley family was in attendance and thanked for their many years of hosting the Union show. The educational sessions held on Saturday and Sunday were a great idea. Joan Rolfs and I did one on Nipper and it was fun and well attended.

It's my opinion that the vendors had a nice variety of items for sale ranging from entry level to more unusual items. It was my impression that paid admission on Saturday was OK but Sunday admission was disappointing. I don't think this was a result of a lack of advertising because great effort was made to attract buyers.

I was very encouraged and impressed that several of the APS Midwest Committee members talked to vendors and asked for suggestions on future events. I would like to thank APS and the APS Midwest Expo Committee for all their hard work. I am glad I attended the first Midwest Expo and look forward to next year.

Respectfully submitted,
Jerry Blais

[Jerry B.]

Here are a couple of photos with captions. Jerry