There was a lot going on today. Maybe it would be wise going forward for round 1 to divide it into 2 days: east and west.
Also, I'm not too crazy about how I couldn't even post a defense until after I went to bed (12:45am-ish), but by the time I was finished with work (around 5ish) and got around to being able to post a defense, I think a considerable number of votes had already been made because of the time restriction.
But oh well, maybe better luck next year. Good luck to all who are left!!! And great job to everyone so far!