With due respect to NOC, rescheduling GAF is a bad move and is representative of a wrong turn the center is taking.  Thanks to the center for still holding the event, though.

The flavor of GAF was set by true sport enthusiasts, insiders, outdoor folk, and others with a commitment.  This timing seems to be focused on the rafting constituency -- bread and butter that supports the WW culture and industry for sure, but not who most of us want to hang with at a festival.  Please God, say the train won't be dropping off its passengers during the event.

I understand the main parking lot won't be open for private booths -- it's the most open space there -- why?  Will they be off to the side or in a corner?  Why will space be limited?

NOC will still be in the midst of Fall clinics -- will all the instruction demos be up for sale, or will this be more limited in September?

I guess NOC won't provide employment for some of the shoulder season staff they used to keep around for the event.  Did the off-season just get harder for a few outdoor industry folk?

We'll miss the crisp Fall festival weather.  OK -- that one is purely subjective...