Darklord Day 2017

Sounds healthier than Diabeticulan.

 

I'm still debating on what new backpack I want to invest in and at first glance I was really digging this one until I started reading the reviews. Nearly every review complained about cheap/faulty zippers. Other than that it looks like a good backpack though.

 

https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000...98&sr=1-1&keywords=coleman+insulated+backpack

I just bought this one earlier this week and it is really nice. Easily fits 5 to 6 bombers. Even did 4 750's and a bomber to test it out. I've tried multiple packs and I think this one is the keeper.

 

I got this bad boy:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00U...e+backpack&dpPl=1&dpID=51fovIC5RSL&ref=plSrch

Tried it once so far and happy with it.

 

I researched the backpack coolers for quite some time. In the end it was between the Coleman and the one I chose. I chose the one I did for a few reasons. Were there issues with the zippers after use on some of them? Yes. However I read that the customer service has been great and they are going to be sending out an upgraded model free to those that purchased this one.
I also chose this model because of it's size and it's ability to hold liquids without leaking. God forgive me if a bottle broke, but at least it wouldn't leak out into the car or wherever.
I avoided the model that @kreg02 chose because of the numerous reports of the straps and handles ripping off. My final decision rested on the fact that I had been given an Amazon gift card which dropped the price to buy one get one free.

 

Thanks for the recommendation. Just picked this one up, for less than $30 its a steal

 

I've seen about a dozen different posts for backpacks here. My only question is. Which one is the largest? I have a tendency to bring too much and be very generous with my pours so I don't want to rub out!

 

Never rub out before a handjee!

 

Ill keep you updated on the straps, I feel I may be a target for theifs now though...

 

Hop on amazon and compare. That question is the most asked for every backpack and its usually listed at the top. One of the reasons I selected mine was it was one of the biggest available.

So where are we meeting up at

 

The construction zone for the hotel next to Centennial Park should suffice - plenty of places to hide/pop out surprisingly

 

We'll coordinate a strike plan. I have a call into the United Airlines security seeing if anyone is available.

 

Anyone have info/knowledge of parking at Centennial Park?

This will be my 3rd DLD but have always parked at my hotel and then shuttled.

 

Parking, as you may know from previous DLD appearances, is quite limited and scattered. With construction going on for the new hotel at the park I'm guessing there won't be any parking there.

 

If it's a nice day, my wife and I may leave our car at the hotel and walk to DLD. I think it's a little over a mile from the Hampton Inn in Munster to 3 Floyds.

 

Also, for all new comers, your group doesn't really matter, except for when you're in line to pick up your allotment, and at that time, trying to meet up is IMO, a fools errand.

When you're waiting to get in the event in the morning, you'll be with every group.

 

The one I have from REI is quite large and very durable - here's the page for it: https://www.rei.com/product/882919/evrgrn-24-pack-backpack-cooler

Unfortunately it's discontinued but they pop up on ebay occasionally and I suppose there could still be a couple hiding in back corners at some stores. There are definitely none left at the Indy store... after they put them on clearance for $25 at this time last year, someone posted it in my local group and we cleaned them out pretty quick.

 

Back in the day meeting in your group's line was the thing to do. The lines moved quite slow as there was cash exchanged for the 1-4 Dark Lords people chose to buy and also waiting for people to scratch off their golden ticket and select a variant. Since moving to the all inclusive program the group lines, in my experience, move very fast. Last year I got through the line as fast as I could walk.
I initially thought the group line would be a good idea...but not anymore since I've really thought about it.

 

I did Centenial last year. Arrived about 8:00 AM and there were no trouble with spots. Easy walk across the street.

Seemed to be workers there every time I went to visit my vehicle.

Price was reasonable and they don't tow if you leave over night.

 

Fair warning, there's a stretch of road (just before the train tracks) on Calumet where the sidewalk stops. Following that, there's no crosswalk to get across Calumet/45th Street if you're on the West side of Calumet (same side as the hotel). Traffic in the area will be pretty awful for obvious reasons, and Calumet is one of the busiest streets in the area anyway