The Alchemy 2012 Burn Report
by Whatsblem the Pro
Alchemy, the Georgia Regional Burn, has just released their 2012 Burn Report. Tolstoy it ain’t, but to anyone interested in the logistics that go into a good burn, it’s a fascinating read. Those of you planning large-scale art projects will also find some solid grist for your mills therein.
I for one am impressed. Alchemy 2012 came in nearly $7,000 under budget, and generated revenue of $49,727.33 for Alchemy LLC, the co-op that runs the event. The degree of willing transparency demonstrated by their sometimes very candid comments in their Burn Report stand as an inspiration to all of us to take responsibility for our shortcomings. For instance:
“We did not have enough Rangers to work perimeter. The back half was only watched by two members of APW and two Rangers.”
“During fueling of the Effigy someone with a lit cigarette was able to enter the Perimeter.”
“Paper lanterns were being set up by the crowd- there were blowing right at the effigy while it was fueled.”
“We had our first runner. He did not get very far in and was grabbed by a Ranger. He turned out to be a very intoxicated minor who snuck into the event. I rode with Officer Denny to return the kid to his home and we spoke to his father about what happened.”
You can’t fix things without acknowledging that they’re broken first, and our brothers and sisters in Georgia seem to understand that well.
The Alchemy 2012 Burn Report is also well-stocked with positives; Section III, Innovations and Improvements for 2012, is particularly instructive, and again, the candid nature and expansiveness of the comments are not only valuable for other event planners and project leads, they show a commitment to open honesty and constant improvement that we can all take a lesson from.
