[Mark Pierce]

For the fifth time, the West Michigan regional is shaping up to be one of the best run and most competitive regionals of the year.

Competition here seems definitely up a notch from what we saw at GLR. I've been fairly busy, but it does seem like veterans and rookies alike are busy in the pits. For us, it's been some wiring and mechanical issues which have been repaired and improved. Our arm operator did a great job of using the backup jog controls on at least one match today. We're ready for tomorrow.

As for 245, they've had some bad alliance breaks, and I believe they had to do some repairs, but they were feeling quite confident late this afternoon. (They are our neighbors in the pits).

I thought the rookies at GLR were amazing, but the rookies here are even more impressivel. I'm basing this more on what I see in the pits than the few matches I've seen. It was a fantastic awards showing for the Holland/Zelland area teams. One award apiece for all five area teams!

The program works, chairman's award presentation is done, the pit is set up, our wires shouldn't get stretched anymore, so I'm hoping to have more time to watch and visit with friends today.