I did prefer the great food choices at Whistle Junction over sandwiches - that's for sure! And it is great for big appetites, too! But the space (and maybe some privacy, if we want to do any sort of programs, talks, awards, etc.) is a BIG consideration. If it costs a couple of dollars more or less to do it one way or the other, that shouldn't be a BIG consideration for people who traveled a long way for a once per year special treat. But convenient location, space, and privacy, will count as much as the food, I think (for many people).
IF we had any sort of program planned (and I don't know if that will happen), it is POSSIBLE that we COULD (or would even want to) have a dinner someplace to yak together at our tables, and then adjourn to the hotel meeting room where we would just pay for something like the "cookie platter" or whatever it was called (plus coffee, tea, soda, etc)? And then spend an hour or two with some kind of corn related program / discussion / contest awards / photos, etc.?
I can pretty much "go with the flow" on whatever is decided. But I would be more likely to stay at the hotel we discussed if the dinner was there, too, or at least very close to there (so hubby can do his own thing with the vehicle while I go to the dinner).
At least we still have plenty of time to explore all options before settling on what the majority wants to do.
