An idea that is a winner (08/21/07)

It looks as if we've got ourselves a winner.

For a first-ever event, Sunday's Welcome Home to Portland Festival merited an A-plus. And, knowing the individuals involved in sparking the event, our guess is that it's only going to get better.

Those who attended saw a first-rate parade, browsed through booths set up by local merchants, sampled homemade pies and well-cooked brats, ogled collector cars, bought produce at the farmers' market, and got a taste of the engines and tractors that make the Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association Show such a hit.

The festival has, at its core, two key goals: Cementing the tie between the engine association folks and the community and boosting interest in local businesses - particularly retailers - who have something to offer the annual visitors the show brings to Jay County.

Sunday's event made progress on both fronts.

It's always a good idea to let folks know we're happy to have them here as visitors. And it's always smart to clue them in on opportunities in terms of shopping, dining, and entertainment, so that the engine show's impact isn't limited to the fairgrounds and the surrounding neighborhood.

The engine show will always be, primarily, a fairgrounds event; but it would be short-sighted to limit it to that.

This week, we're sure, the sparkplugs behind the festival are already planning additions and changes for next year. Our guess is dozens of ideas are on the table. Even Sunday afternoon, suggestions were surfacing from those in attendance.

The good news is, it was a great start. The better news is, it's going to be even better next year. - J.R.[[In-content Ad]]