Saturday, August 9, 2008

Yellowstone Show

I have mixed feelings about the Yellowstone Campground show in Sanford - that last word being the key, of course.

When we arrived, just about the first thing that happened was that someone approached us and simply stated there was no way we could win anything. When we inquired as to why, we were told the Sanford Elks had their fingerprints all over this show, and they had not gotten over their grudge.

Fair enough, we figured. We now knew that we would not win, even if we had brought a mint '36 "Duesy". As long as we knew what to expect, we had no problem with that. But that did not mean there was no problem. It is always a problem when folks allow their personal feelings to get in the way and destroy their credibility and integrity. It's like watching someone self-destruct: it does not affect us, but it is sad to watch.

And we did have to watch. As the judges made the rounds, looking over all the cars carefully, we noted the judges simply walked passed our PT Woody without so much as a glance. It made me chuckle under my breath to watch such obvious slighting, and to know what was going on, but it also hurt a little to watch people toss their integrity out the window for something so minor and dumb. What a waste!

As for the show, itself, it was pretty darn good. Less formal than most, without classes. And small. But well done, with good organization. In general, it was a relaxing atmosphere filled with good folks, laughter, and (believe it or not), SUNSHINE! We applaud Yellowstone for a good time. Unfortunately, since it has been made known that there is little point for us to attend this show (our car will be ignored), we doubt we will be coming back.

But it is a good show, considering its informal structure, and we encourage all to attend next year - we think you will enjoy it. We did!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I am the owner and manager of Yellowstone Park in Sanford, Maine and I organized the car show which was held on August 9, 2008. I would like to clear up some points of information which were incorrectly stated by Bill concerning this show. First of all, neither I nor any of my staff ever passed a comment about your PT cruiser not being able to win a trophy. Secondly, the Elks have nothing to do with the organization of this car show. They serve food and all of their proceeds go to the Maine Cancer Children's Association. So shame on you. Thirdly, the three judges own and work at an auto body shop and have built numerous antique and race cars so they know their profession. AND I resent you attacking my integrity and honesty. Everyone comes to this show with the same chance of winning a trophy.

There is a lot of effort that goes into putting on a car show and your letter was absolutely unprofessional; since it had no facts to back it up.

Caryll Quinones
Yellowstone Park
Owner and manager