First Firing in Skutt Kiln

I bought this kiln over the summer from Craigslist and this is the first time I was able to fire it.

Here's the list of things I should have done before my first firing....but didn't do.... 1. Vacuum the kiln 2. Put same size pieces in the kiln, fire and record the differences of the glass reaction based on where it was placed in the kiln. 3. Get a proper kiln shelf. 4. Kiln wash the bottom of the kiln. (I got lazy since this was used before and I was hoping it was already done). Here are the things I did do before the first firing. 1. I pushed any loose pins holding the elements back in place. 2. l downloaded and read the manual. I'm using a pizza stone (new and received from a FreeCylcer) that I kiln washed. Hopefully this doesn't break and ruin my first firing in this kiln.

One of the pieces in the kiln is above: Marine Blue stringers, a few clear strings and Juniper Blue powder Also in the kiln are the frit/powder pieces and some small jewelry pieces. I'm using the pre-programmed setting: Tack fuse @ 1350 deg. Med. speed I tried to increase the temp to 1400 deg but I couldn't figure it out. well next time.