HERSHEY, Pa. Spring rain failed to dampen spirits (or attendance) at the annual Museum of Bus Transportation Spring Fling here last month.

Despite a heavy downpour on the first day of the two-day event, total attendance exceeded 450.

According to museum spokesman Bob Beard, each succeeding fling has attracted more participants from both the industry and the general public.

Typically, most attendees are from the Mid-Atlantic region, but Canada, Florida and the U.S. West Coast were represented this year.

Gary Driver, owner of a number of coach operations in Australia, included the event on his U.S. travel itinerary.

In addition to the museums collection of vintage coaches, some dating back to the early days of the 20th century, a number of collectible buses were driven to the event by their owners, including Flagship Trailways newly restored 1975 Silver Eagle. It flew in from Rhode Island.

Greyhound Lines displayed a new Prevost X3 45, outfitted with Greyhounds new livery, a three-point seatbelt configuration, Wi-Fi and 110-volt seat-side outlets, providing a real-world reminder of how far motorcoaches have progressed.

Vintage buses were displayed at the museum, and at the George Sage Complex, named for the late owner of Bonanza Bus Lines, an industry icon and museum benefactor. This modern facility is normally used for restoration and storage of coaches.

But for the Spring fling it was converted into North Americas largest bus memorabilia flea market. There were 40 vendors, up from last years 28.

Transportation between the two sites was provided by Wolf Bus Lines of York Springs, Pa., and Conestoga Tours of Lancaster, Pa.

Corporate sponsorship was strong again this year, despite the depressed economy.

ABC Companies, Lancer Insurance, Michaud Bus Sales, Motor Coach Industries, Prevost Car, Setra and Vernon & Maz all participated, as well as three trade groups (American Bus, American Public Transit and United Motorcoach associations).