Everything is ready to rock and roll tomorrow morning.
Yesterday was indeed a great first set up day, with a large crowd of very hard working volunteers. I am grateful for each and every one of you. Some union disputes made set up more difficult than usual because we were not allowed to use the pallet jacks we normally use to pull the crates down the line just ahead of the people pulling strip sections out of the crate. We had to hand carry, or furniture dolly the sections from the crates in their original spotting positions. In spite of the difficulties, 60 strips were laid, reels, machines and stands distributed.
Today the armory staff and several wonderful volunteers hung the machines and wired the strips. All 60 strips are ready to go.
We started equipment checks around 1pm and continued to 6:30. The line got a little longer than I would like, because I could only keep 3 armorers on the line; the other 2 plus 4 volunteers completed setting up strips. The most experienced, and fastest 3 armorers worked the line. I am sorry that the line got as long as it did, but it really wasn't all that bad. We're cautiously hopeful that we moved enough fencers through the checking process that tomorrow morning, traditionally the worst line, will not be very bad. Do be prepared if you are planning to have your equipment checked tomorrow morning.
I will have at least 8 fully manned test stations, and may have one or two more. Everyone will be working the line unless we have early strip calls. Please do remember:
1. Having your equipment out and available, as has been discussed on this board makes the line move MUCH faster
2. Don't get in the line unless you are fencing tomorrow morning. After around 10:00 when the line thins out, we'll take other fencers.
3. Unless the line gets crazy, we're limiting to 3 cords, 2 lames per fencer for the morning rush.
4. Vendors are open and available for your last minute purchases, but if you need it for fencing you MUST get cords, lames and masks (and saber gloves) checked
Swordmasters, the official repair station, is late arriving. Apparently they had a truck breakdown. I do hope they will be set up and ready for repairs when the venue opens at 7. As usual, other vendors will do limited repairs so you usually have options.
We're not having any special problems with personal equipment, just the usual stuff. Every machine on every strip has Score and Timing, with remotes. I even have a couple of S&T spares. We're really short of remote spares, so directors: treat them gently, and don't leave them in your pocket
If you have any armory problems or questions, ask for me, Brian, at least until the 5th, when Ted Li takes over.
Linear Mode
