I haven't heard how it went, I think they were in DC because they planned flying from there back to hot and dry Texas today. I saw part of that Capitol Fourth on TV and they didn't get rained on there if they attended.

I envy you your rain. I picked up two barrels so far and will see about getting collection kits and a pump. I spoke with a friend at work on Thursday--he runs a print shop and they have a couple of submersible pumps for moving printing or developing chemicals around the plant. He also has a pool and a large aquarium at home, so he was able to consider my plan and suggest that I get a simple pump from an aquarium store. He has a "transport pump" he uses when he has to empty water out of his salt-water aquarium to put in new fresh water. Sounds like it is efficient and a good size for what I'm planning. I'll report back once I get those pieces assembled.

SRS