Of Tunnels and Lights

Today I broke through the tunnel wall of one of the larger jobs of conference data processing

It is exactly two weeks today when people start arriving.  A few are actually arriving sooner, but the numbers of instructors and registrants begin pulling/flying into town in exactly two weeks.

The committee is gearing up to do the kinds of things that could not be done any sooner than now. 

While we have been thinking about this event for five years. the vast majority of the work could only be done in the past 12 months, with much of the final details needing to wait until, well, now.

For the past few days I have been sifting through each individual person's event choices - workshop and seminars - and collating them into one check list which will go into their check in envelope.

We knew there were some issues, which I will now follow up on - several people have only got one or two seminars on their list - is that all they wanted, or did something fall through the cracks in the internet???

Another addition to the fashion show will have to wait until tomorrow (she sent it - it didn't arrive until now) when I can insert the items into the program and commentary and then the fashion show programs with the garment line up will be printed, ready to be handed out.  Numbers for the models to carry are also being printed out and the Civic Centre staff suggested a much nicer room set up than what I had been considering.  There will be a cash bar at the back of the room - just saying!

We are still collecting items for the instructors.  Right now I'm scouring the town for hot plates.  Doug's step sister provided one, which will help.  But I need to go over the hot plate requests again and see if any can be shared or if everyone who needs one, needs it all the time.  The dye workshop needs five for the two days, but some are only for a part of a workshop, some are for one or two seminars.  So hopefully instructors can pass on to someone in a different time slot when they are done using one.

Rides for the instructors to and from the airport (for those who need them) are arranged.  There are taxis and shuttles to and from town for those who need them.  And of course car rental places at the airport.

People staying at the two hotels downtown are advised to leave their vehicles in the hotel parking lots.  Otherwise parking is limited to three hours.  The lot next to the Civic Centre has free parking for three hours, but you must 'register' your vehicle, and if you stay for longer parking can be purchased for a reasonable sum.  The machines will take credit cards as well as cash.  Read the instructions on the machine and know your licence plate number.

Time to go sift through the registrations that need to be follow up on.  And maybe have a cool drink.  It's warm here today.  Summer seems to be making an 'early' appearance!  But bring layers.  It can still be cool to chilly in the evenings in June.