What pleasant events have you seen transpire at train shows?

I've had some kinda similar experiences at train shows. Sometimes you get some great train conversations with like-minded people, if they aren't too busy with customers. I owe much of my O-gauge collection to finding great deals from friendly folks who were happy to make me a bargain without me having to "insult" them!

There's a really nice fellow from Iowa who comes up to Minneapolis/St.Paul for the Century College show.  I've bought some parts from him over the years.  He's always happy to talk with you and help you out as much as he can.  His name is Jerry.  I have his card somewhere..now where in the heck......but the point is I think of him more of a friend than a dealer and just like to check in with him when he comes up! 

Rick, Mpls.

One local show, usually the weekend before Thanksgiving, is a display only show, layouts only. It is a fundraiser for the local Lions Club. My favorite show. Great people, great clubs, all who have been doing it for years, who know each other and enjoy each others company and friendly ribbing. In addition to club friends, I always see a few long time friends from my HO and earlier days I usually don't see often. Always glad to see them and talk and catch up. 

Take your pick!

 We set up the rope barricade to keep adults away from the layout - not the kids!  

Jim

Right on Jim! The smile on my grandsons face as he watched the trains go round and round. Cost of admission $5....Expression on his face, PRICELESS!

Besides chatting with friends, I have had many good events at shows. The best was when I first got my American Flyer items. Before I got the track, I bought some, and the person was so helpful, explaining to me what I needed to make a complete loop. I was only going to buy a circle, but he insisted that I needed straights as well, to the point that he GAVE me 4 straights. I was very thankful, and as I was walking away he yelled "do you have a lock on?" I didn't even think of that. I mean I have Lionel ones, but they wouldn't work. He gave me one of those as well.

Since that experience, everyone I have worked with in American Flyer has been extremely nice. People I didn't even buy parts or items from giving me there card, telling me to call them if I had any more questions on anything Flyer! There aren't many places where you find that kind of kindness.

Of course I have seen it from Lionel people as well. I have seen sellers let items go cheap to kids. I have seen people turn down a sale (both to me and others) because there was a better product for what they need, which they did not have.

I am glad that this thread was started. With all the bad things we hear about, not only in this hobby, but in everything, it is good to be reminded of all the good in this world.