Indy-- all very good points about the tent option. I wasnt being very polite about it, but as you mention, its very popular on le grand tour also, so it probably makes good money for them which is fine with me, Velo Quebec is a good organisation.
The demographic of Cycle Oregon has changed over the last decade. There are now more older, well-heeled riders, which is not surprising given the cost. As noted, my first one was in 2002. My last was 2012, with 2005 and 2007 in between. I could really notice the age difference.
And yes, it does make sense in some instances. Some friends of mine who also did Bon Ton this year don't usually camp and thus don't have the gear, so the tent service made sense for them. Plus, they could easily afford it.
When did LGT start offering tent service? I did it in 2008 and don't remember it, but that doesn't mean they didn't offer it back then. Well organized event, but the weather was horrible. That summer I think it rained somewhere in PQ every day. It certainly rained every day of the tour, although the first day the rain held off until after the day's ride.