Cactus Idiosyncrasies
Dear GG, There are a couple of things unique to the Cactus and the range where it is held. The range is about 25 miles N of downtown Phoenix and very easy to find. Getting into the range is a different matter. There are two entrances; one on the East side that is a coded gate and one on the West side nearer to the BR range. The West entrance is opened according to the phases of the moon and the local warlord situation in Chad. It will be probably be open but maybe not. This leaves you the coded gate. Be sure to find out the gate code. It is not posted and you must ask the BR range master. It will be open but not until 7AM. If you want to arrive earlier you must open it yourself or wait for someone who knows the code. The first time driving to the BR range from the East gate is tricky. Just go West on the range about 1 mile and you will find it. The loading tables on the East side of the range will all be reserved days prior to the shoot so loading there is problematic. There is usually lots of space on the West side. If you plan to arrive several days prior to the shoot you will have no problem finding a spot. If you arrive the night before or the day of the shoot bring a loading table. You might need it. The range is beautiful but it can rain (even in Phoenix) so do bring some tarps, spring clamps, bungi cords and stakes. You will need them if it rains and to protect you from the sun and wind. The roofs are so high over the loading areas that they admit a good deal of sun and rain. Despite what Al Gore says high dessert weather can be cold so bring warm clothing.
The traffic will be light in the morning going to the range but stop and go for miles in the evening going towards Phoenix. My experience with Phoenix drivers has not been positive. (I grew up in Phoenix.) The young drive very fast and are prone to unexpected lane switches. Mix this with the numerous elderly "sun birds" that frequent Phoenix and you have a volatile combination. Hotel/ motel prices are higher then usual since this is high season so get your wallet out. The food in Phoenix is excellent and varied especially Arizona Mexican food. Try a cheese crisp a local delicacy.
The shoot is well run and fun. The weather usually is good and the folks friendly. If you bring your spouse and they like to shop, the mega malls in Scottsdale cover square miles and contain anything you can imagine. Again get your wallet out. See you there and good luck. Tim
