Only a few days left now, so this may be the last update. Just a few items to relay.
REGISTRATION
There is a flurry of last minute registrations and cancellations. As indicated in the sign-up info, we cannot offer refunds on registration fees. We have already committed to our numbers for catering, paid for much of that, and made payments in a number of other areas. However, registration is transferable. You need to make those arrangements, including exchange of money, yourself, but you also need to let us know once you have the exchange in place. We need to update our roster, so we need the appropriate info for each person who is actually attending. Thanks for understanding.
There are still a few spaces available for all events, but the Banquet has only about 10 spots left. Again, transfers are a good way to secure a spot.
On-line registration is closed, except for vendor registration on Sunday. Please use the mail-in form here:
http://www.cirqueducyclisme.com/
CHARITY AUCTION
There will be some really outstanding items at the Auction, but donated items are still needed. MJ and I will be donating a few special, limited edition, Cirque 2008 commemorative items. We encourage everyone to try and contribute something, Dust off that piece you've been holding on to, waiting for the right project, and allow it go to some other custodian for a while, and help a worthy cause. More info here:
http://www.cirqueducyclisme.com/
The Auction is not a dinner event, rather it will have a very special, lavish dessert spread, including coffee and tea. A beer and wine cash bar is also included. Everyone will be on their own for dinner, and we are encouraging people to break into groups and make dinner a bunch of mini social events. There are a large number of great places for dinner in Leesburg, many of them within very short walking distances. We will have lots more info about that, including maps, at the Opening Reception.
BIKE ASSEMBLY
Peter Koskinen / PRKBIKES LLC will have the PRK support truck at the Best Western begining Friday morning about 10 AM. Peter wil have 4 workstands and tools available for those that need a place and the equipment to assemble bikes. Peter is donating this service to the Cirque, so be gracious when you use the service, and generous when you pass by Peter's "Beer Tip" bucket!!
SUNDAY SHOW & SWAP at the FAIRGROUNDS
How to pay the $5 general admission charge was pretty confusing for a lot of people, because it was pretty unclear in the posted info. Some included the $5 with their registration, some didn't. We would like to have as many people pre-paid as possible prior to Sunday morning, so we will be collecting $ and distributing entry bands at the hotel beginning with the Friday Reception. MJ will be handling that. Those that have already paid can pick up a wrist-band, those that have not paid can pay and pick up a wrist-band.
We will have a "Food Court" at the Fairgrounds. Hamburg Doner will be selling great European sandwiches, salads, wursts, falafel and fries. Maui Wowi will be offering natural smoothies, iced coffees and other beverages, and Blue Ridge Kettle Korn with have their famous slightly sweet, slightly salty mixture of fresh popcorn available.
We are happy to announce that we will also have two Loudoun County Deputies at the Fairgrounds to provide security. This is something we have given a lot of thought, and while it's a little expensive, we feel that it's something important to the comfort and peace-of-mind of everyone participating, and well worth the expense.
MERCHANDISE
For the first time, we will have official Cirque T-shirts and Musette bags for sale at the event. These will be offered to participants at the hotel at a reduced rate, and then be on sale at the Show for the regular price. Your first opportunity will be at the Opening Reception on Friday, but MJ and/or I will have them throughout the weekend.
WEATHER
I finally got brave enough to look at the 10-day forecast today, and it looks fabulous, at least through Friday, which is 10 days out. Low to mid 80's, low humidity, and only a slight chance of a passing shower. The weather around here can change easily and rapidly, but the outlook so far is pretty nice!
Well, that's about all for now. I think this will be a great Cirque. Looking forward to seeing everyone again REAL soon!
Wayne Bingham
Lovettsville Virginia USA
http://www.cirqueducyclisme.com/