SC - census basics: how many are here?

[Siegfried Heydrich]

I find myself in the same situation as Nykodemus!  As of two evenings ago..I 
am the only person in my shire who can be there for land grab.  I hadn't 
planned on going to Pennsic this year because I'm so new to the Society that 
I will be totally lost!  I have many of the same questions!  (and must 
shamefacedly admit that I deleted the whole "Pennsic cookery panel" thread 
unread because "I wasn't going")

Etain  (Hmm...The Cuskynole embazoned with a flaming lizard is starting to 
look good....)

<< the first time my work has allowed me to go.   Questions in no particular 
order.
 
 Who is a must meet?
 
 Who are the best merchants and classes?
 
 How can i finaly meet some of the great SCA cook list types?  Will you be
 wearing your cuksoles/ flaming lizards?  
 
 What do you wish someone had told you before your first Pensic?
 
 Nyckademus >>