There's No Free Lunch In Oshkosh

After hearing literally hundreds of complaints about the high price of admission for its annual AirVenture event, the EAA has decided to amend its policy for the 2004 show. However, it may not be to everyone's liking. The organization just announced that it will no longer charge an admission price for the event. However, to compensate for this loss of income, EAA officials advised that there will be a "nominal increase" in concession prices.

Here are samples from the new pricing structure:

• Hamburger - $50 (w/cheese - $55)
• Hot dog - $45 (add $3 per condiment)
• Chicken sandwich - $50 grilled, $55 fried. (Lettuce/tomato are extra)
• Soda - $10

EAA President Tom Poberezny sees this new "Free" Oshkosh, as a positive development... "After hearing about the 100 dollar hamburger for so many years, we have to believe that charging only 50 bucks represents a pretty good deal for today's flyers."

In addition to the higher concession prices, attendees will notice an even larger amount of corporate sponsorship at this year's event. Again, EAA officials claim this is necessary to make-up for the lost gate revenue.

Some of the more noticeable changes include:

• The Ford-sponsored portable toilets.
• Aeroshell water fountains.
• The Eclipse-o-rama kids center.  

FMI: www.we-hope-eaa-has-a-sense-of-humor.org