Dear Friends,

I wanted to post here to reassure everyone intending to visit the WMAW 2001 that we have crossed the Atlantic safely, and would urge all those intent on coming to remain undeterred.

The events of today - the commencing of bombing on Afghanistan - may serve to deter some from travelling, but I would urge everyone not to bow to the pressure of anticipated retaliation by these fanatics. It may never even happen.

We have both already met up with and crossed blades with a few of our good friends here in NYC, and the atmosphere is electric.

Don't miss out just because some idiots want to impose their religious facism on our Western culture.

Looking forward to sharing time with you all again,

Travel safe,

Bob Brooks
Secretary, British Federation for Historical Swordplay
Secretary, International Masters at Arms Federation
Dawn Duellists Society, Edinburgh.