For those of you that are interested, and like having sources for gear...check out R&W Rope's annual 'Ropefest' on 4/18 from 8am-4pm. A warehouse sale of epic proportion, featuring ropes, gear and accessories from New England Ropes, Sterling Rope, Petzl, Kong USA, and more.
Located in New Bedford, MA, more than a sale, they will have demos all day long for and by: Arborists, fire/rescue, marine, rock climbers, knot tying, fitness(battling/fitness ropes), splicing and more. A rock climbing wall. Food and beverages. Educational and Safety seminars. Whether you stop in for a great deal on a dynamic or static rope(they have a LOT of shorts for those specific applications or gym leads), or bring family and friends and make a day of it...you'll have fun, learn things, meet like-minded people and make out on rope, gear and accessories.
Check them out at www.RWrope.com...not just for Ropefest, but anytime of the year.