Summer league is very popular and the current system doesnt allow for both to existing a healthy manner. The USA vs summer league issue is something where both sides need to sit down and discuss the problems and current tension but one side needs to make the first move which seems unlikely

On Friday so a new area of exploration on Monday that has been somewhat pre planned seems like the best way to go.

Others for higher level characters can be weapons and armor that allows PCs to flesh out everything they can do from unique spells to renewing resources in a different way. Balance is taken into account but to me these items are designed with players to give them something to be excited about

Couldn't roll above a 5. It ended up working out and was a fun and frustrating fight for them but it is a reminder to understand luck matters in dnd or any dice based ttrpg so keep that in mind