I'll be there!

Might as well contribute a random photo too!!

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Let's all just relax and take a time out to appreciate a random crowd photo from 2012.

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As one of the Arcade hall volunteers, I'm really looking forward to helping out again. Dan & Gary have been great about taking input from everyone and making the MGC get better every year. I know we're going to do everything possible to make the transition a good one, so don't hesitate to plan on bringing a game (or several)!!

Oh and my hint was "Let's all just relax and take a time out to appreciate a random crowd photo from 2012" The key words were "Time Out" which was a nod to Jim's Time Out... An awesome dive bar one block to the west of the Milwaukee center that I'm amazed is still there.

Uh oh... Hope they don't go too far!

I had a great time! As a long time volunteer, the new 3 times larger space brought 3 times the fun, 3 times the work, and 3 times the bullshit/drama. Add to that, the storm on Sunday doubled the bullshit factor!

Lets get the bullshit over with first... All of us volunteers went through a lot of behind the scenes surprises this year (especially Keith & Aaron who dealt with some epic hassles... and Dan & Gary probably had it 3 times worse!). The new venue proved to be a challenge to work with, and there were rules and procedures that kept popping up that were a struggle to adapt to at times. Now that the first year at the new location is in the books, I know both The Wisconsin Center and us will hopefully be able to work for an improved relationship next year. I apologize on behalf of the volunteers for any negative situations with show contributors that may have hurt anyone's feelings. Load in/out was a mess and things did get tense several times, but for the most part, things went well. I had to leave about 10pm and things probably didn't get cleared out until midnight. Hats off to those who got creative and took it upon themselves to remove their games through the hotels or front entrance. One of my many favorite quotes of the weekend was "It's better to beg forgiveness than ask permission".

The After Party pass thing... I am one of several volunteers that hand out after party passes, you are rewarded one if you contribute to the arcade hall. Now that the console museum is part of the room, they are included. If you bring a showpiece pinball machine, a beat up yet working Pacman or a Nintendo 64, you are entitled to an after party pass. VIPs and arcade hall vendors also get access to the party, but vendor hall people do not. If anyone sees someone without a wristband or VIP, they should feel free to contact a volunteer or security. A few people do slip in, but that's the way it is. We do our best to keep the After Party special.

It was an extremely great weekend. I personally had about the most fun I've ever had at a MGC. It's always great to catch up with some great people I only get to see once a year.

Thanks to everyone for another great Midwest Gaming Classic!