[SEL] 2008 Portland swap meet dates

[Judge Tommy Turner]

George,
    I've been to every swap meet at Portland since they began.  
Sometimes I've been there 3 or 4 days, other times only 1 day.  Its a 
large swap meet but like all others, it has migrated away from the 
antique engines and tractors somewhat and you see more and more lawn and 
garden tractors and the like there.  I don't think it compares to the 
swap/sell area at the Portland show.  If I were going to attend, I would 
say the Wed - Thurs. time frame is best.  A lot of folks are there on 
Monday but people are still "feeling" one another out and I usually 
don't see much dealing going on (that is unless a bargin rolls in which 
is almost non existent today).  By Wed. more folks and iron rolls in and 
everyone seems to be in more of a "swap" mood. 

    All the swaps were much better 15 years ago than today.  I used to 
go to Waukee every year and it was super until about 2000 or so (hey, I 
can remember buying an 8 HP cam stopper Field Brundage there in the mid 
90's for less than $3000!).  The last time I went, in 2002 I think, I 
bought one oiler.  Not worth the trip. 

    Considering that we're now having to deal with $3 a gallon gas (and 
$3.40 a gallon diesel), that could be closer to $4 a gallon by May, a 
1000 mile trip (500 each way) and 3 or 4 overnight stays will cost 
around $700 just for the trip.  Throw in a few good meals and some misc. 
costs and you won't be far from 1000 bucks.  This is for a 1000 mile 
trip.  Your trip will be about 5000 miles (2500 each way).  Unless your 
truck gets over 20 mpg, you're going to spend close to $1000 for fuel 
alone.  I want you to come as I'd like to see you again, share some 
stories, eat a hamburger (or better yet a steak) together, etc.  I'm not 
sure coming for the engines and parts alone will make it worthwhile.  
But, thats the good thing about the old iron.  There's a lot more to it 
than iron.

Tommy Turner
Magnolia, KY


>I find it hard to believe that this swap meet goes on for 7 days.
>
>Who on this list goes to the Portland swap meet, and which days or for
>how many days do you go?
>
>Is the swap meet really any better than what is available in the vendor
>area during the August show?
>
>
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