John, I'm with you in spades on the "Not wanting to see men in tights playing leapfrog across the stage floor- while women are singing in Italian and wearing TuTu's-- Huum- possibly a cultural take on the old "Nehru Jackets" or years ago- women wearing costumes designed by Bishop Desmond TuTu-- makes me recall the Chinese philosopher's words: "May you live in interesting times"--

Not SD today (6/Nov- my Birthday) but close to it at our Kent Co. hunting club- overcast skies, some moisture- started out with my partner and his two Labs- father and son- Junior out for some OJT- Our club manager gets some very cagy and strong flying birds- not the same as the wild ones you are headed for with Colonel Day and crew, but great cover mix- I used the 12 GHE and shot it very well (for an old guy anyway) and enjoyed the morning- some of the pheasants didn't however-

Anyway, sounds like you will be exposed to some great Midwestern culture and hospitality-hope you all get into some good bird cover, enjoy the day, the dog work, and even the "Opera"-- Possibly a report on that will be forthcoming after your safe return home--