Under Rated at the Convention
I noticed a couple of things at the convention that I felt don't get the attention they deserve.One is the EAA member Oasis. There's an air-conditioned area with computers, and an outdoor patio area under umbrellas. It's not right on the flight line, but you can see virtually all of the airshow from there. It's like being in one of those high-priced chalets. Although there's no catering, there is cold water.
Another are the forums that are held in Theater in the Woods. They scheduled some forums there that should have had huge attendance. I went to hear Joe Engle talk. There were maybe a couple hundred people in the audience. Unfortunately he had a conflict and couldn't make it. Also, Dick Rutan spoke, but there were only about 50 people in the audience. He spoke with us for over 2 hours on the very interesting topic of medical issues during his long term flights. TitW can handle much larger crowds than the largest shed in the forum area so no one has to stand (unless there's some extreme event) The talks given there should be given a higher level of publicity.
The very light plane area is getting some recognition. There may need to be even more bleachers added in the future.
I also like the quirky things like the ornithopter or Jerry's One Man Band. I realize Jerry has retired, and the lower sound level in the area is a reason daytime events can be held in TitW. Maybe there's some aviation themed spectacle that can be found at a Maker Faire that can be displayed at our convention.
