Messing with success – and winning

I'll just come out and say it: I'm glad railfan multimedia show Summerail moved to Marion, Ohio, and I wouldn't be sad one bit if it stayed there.

The new venue is, in a word, great. The theater is spacious and comfortable. The theater doors don't cast light on the screen when opened, so attendees can sneak in late to a presentation. There were even food trucks out front so we didn't have to drive across town for lunch. The famous Marion Union Station museum complex is just down the street, within walking distance really, which opens up a new world of train-watching and photography possibilities not easily accessed in Cincinnati.

Were there problems? Sure. There was no seating for patrons of the food trucks. Some train show vendors complained about less foot traffic upstairs. And there are limited dining options near the theater for dinner.

But, still, I believe they pros outweigh the cons. Tables can be setup for eating, and with a little repetition attendees will learn that there's more to see upstairs.

There is a an agreement for a three-year run in Marion. After that? Well, that's up to the railfan community to voice its thoughts on the matter.

I, for one, am casting my vote for Marion.