[EricH]

SpaceOsc hit it right on. And I think he got the right regional size! The one thing I want to add is, you really want to stick around for the awards, even if you have no hope of winning anything.

Oh, and make sure to plan like you will make it onto an alliance for the finals. Be ready to pick your own teams, and plan not to leave before the end of the awards.

And, if you have any further questions, don't hesitate to ask. The only stupid/dumb question is the one that isn't asked.