So here I am, sitting on the bed in a motel built in 1957, watching a TV show that takes place in 1965, crossing the midwest in an automobile from 1987. Without functional A/C. All the better with the windows cranked down. My back aches and I could use another cold MGD. I'm a little sunburned and windblown, but it'll pass. Tomorrow I put another 500 miles on the 'burb, enjoying the backroads and blacktops, looking to top off the 40 gallon tank.
It was a day to be sure. Second year in a row trying out the Dayton Hamfest. I figure I've got a good beat on lodging for the night and the best spot to park without breaking the bank. A medium black coffee and a breakfast sandwich got me to Hara Arena and a back pack and collapsible cart were just what I needed to survive the crowds without doubling back. Once again I made the list for youngest 5% in attendance; didn't even enter the arena this year; a rundown, crumbling, series of structures not unlike the Waterloo Cattle Congress. Here you could find yourself wandering down parking lot rows you just know you've traversed before, yet seeing new things. Sure, that backup generator switch panel looks like a deal, but do you really want to tug it along for the next two hours? Maybe..if the oldtimer would pay you some mind.
Oversized antennas grace automobiles both new and old. "Hey, nice Roadmaster!" Between the brief cloud bursts and burning sun, you make your way past the open concession grills cooking burgers, in search of some shade. You spot WW2 communication receivers for sale, professionally restored and the asking price is what you gave for your last car. Later on you spot a satisfied customer carrying one. By 11AM you're shot. Good deals. Bad deals. And outright bargains gone in the first 15 minutes. You've beat the crumbling pavement and second guessed that EPROM burner from 20 minutes ago. 3 hours is a good run for two arms and a sore back as you make your way to the grassy lot across the street, testing those rubber wheels. Time for a strawberry shake and a moments touch of air conditioning, for the next stop is a downtown factory building in Dayton; 1st and 3rd floors accessible, only. This could prove to be a long day...
