Thanks for the photos, Jafar.  And it was great to talk some with you.  Too dark for photos in the rootstock corner?  I know it’s dark in the grafting room - we have to bring our own lights!  Though I no longer get lost finding the fairgrounds (it’s always a trek), I wonder if it’s a good idea to switch locations next year..?  

Last year I think we set an attendance record, at least Stan was glowing!  ...this year seemed slower, but then I judge attendance by how hectic it gets (and stays) in our grafting chamber.  The last several years we’ve had so many volunteer grafters that there are occasional lulls  

My future participation may be giving examples of bench and topworking trees, like Wane Huffstutter had done in the past.  Had his own table, sign and everything...  I’d considered that this year but Shaun felt we needed grafters.  What we need is entertainment

Hey, the following Sunday we met up at Clackamas CC and grafted another 6 hours worth on the Botner Collection.  No photos or fame, either, but many of our core members further giving their time away for the sake of good food ~

jafar said I thought I might show them to friends to give them an idea of what I am talking about, or in case they don't believe that I devoted a whole weekend to collecting and sharing sticks.

Perfect  Long ago the folks I know either had me graft something around their places ...or I’ve simply given up attempting to explain the concept.

jafar said I made a point to tell people they were free to observe but not to harass the grafters with questions.  If you do your demo I can set them upon you with a clean conscience.

That may have explained a few of the grinning eager beavers standing ‘just far’ enough back to kinda remain inconspicuous.  I find it impossible not to quench their thirst for knowledge ...as I’m looked upon as a Wizard Deluxe

jafar said As to the venue location, believe me it is far from the most convenient for me or those in my immediate circles, but for our requirements I think we'd be hard pressed to find something that fits as well.  I know we are both fans of the junior high but I don't think that is on the table.

Yah, my last recommendation, the Washington Co. Fairplex, didn’t seem to go that well.  It’s been awhile, but even with it’s proximity, I remember agreeing that we’d not return … as I've rarely seen Joanie visibly angry

I remember it being held at the Expo Center, and out at PCC Sylvania Campus… both before I began participating.  No big deal, have knife, will travel