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Hey Villa Roma, thanks for the great new vids on YouTube of your Neopolitian pizza making--really great to see the Little Black Egg in further action. Between the KA spiral dough hook, and your propane hot as hell converted Weber, you really have me inspired.When you had the stone up to 850F for that last pie--how high up did you have the Cajun cooker/propane turned to? How long of a pre-heat do you estimate it would take to reach these high temps? Do you have any idea how long 20 lbs. of propane would last when cooking at these higher temps?Also, what was the bottom of the pie like at the 850F temperature? Any char, ala wood and coal ovens...?
Looks good, Boy Meets Car...! Did you cut out the bottom of the Weber same as Villa Roma has outlined and pictured? That's the only thing holding me back from making a LBE--I am such a klutz with projects that involve the drill and saw blades...
The Little Black Egg is spawning...found this one in my backyard.
Mike.....It's beautiful! Let us know how the pizzas turn out. When do you think you'll be making your first batch of pizza? Villa Roma
Wow, Mike, bummer that your inaugural pizza cook with your LBE was a wash. But it sounds like you may be right in that the over-fermentation didn't leave enough residual flour sugars for the top to brown... I'll be watching for your next batch--post PICS, huh?!My two cents is that with these great high temps, leave the oil and sugar out. That's what's cool about Villa Roma's invention--these high temps that can produce a nice wafer layer of crunchy brown crust and at the same time leave the center top of the pie not overly done. It's the closest I have seen to how wood and coal ovens cook a pie, though granted it is different due to the heat only coming from below. But for under $200, and able to fit on the smallest of patios, I think it's a brilliant design. I've been fairly impressed with some of the other grilled pies posted around here (PFTaylor for example), but most of the better ones have been made on pricey infrared grills, which while capable of intense heat, are out of my budget.I think the cornicione picture that Villa Roma posted previously in this thread is the real money shot--dynamite spring, not overly done bottom layer, and just barely melted cheese topping it all--this is what I am seeking for now.I really am itching to set one of these LBE's up and then make a high, high hydration dough--68%-70%--that is fairly well kneaded, no oil, no sugar, topped with a few thick slices of fresh Mozz, and see how close the puppy can come to an elite NY crust, or even, God forbid, a Neapolitan...
I already tried my first batch...not so good. I think it was my fault; I let the dough over ferment and die. The first pizza burned to a crisp. The second one charred perfectly on the bottom, but the top didn't brown as much as I would have liked. I think the dead dough was the main culprit. I'll be trying again on Saturday and I'm sure it will turn out much better. Everything is identical to yours except for the dough formulation. Any insights on that? I'll be using KA bread flour and IDY. Don't know if I should add sugar and oil for a 650+ temp.- Mike
I purchased an 18" kettle grill at a super K-Mart for $25 on sale last weekend. It came with an attachment type bucket which bolts on to the bottom of the grill to hold the charcoal under the kettle - great thing about this grill was it had a factory made 10" hole in the bottom where you were to install the under-slung charcoal bucket. So no cutting was involved with my LBE.Made my first pizza on it tonight and it was a disaster of sorts. I didn't have the burner hot enough and it took about 45 minutes for the stone to get to 550. I put the pie on the stone and it stuck. I was using corn meal instead of flower to slide the pie - next time I'll use the flour for sure and initially jack up the gas flow for 1/2 hour or so to get the stone into the 650* range.Any advice would be appreciated.
Villa Roma could you explain the use of rice flour in your doughs?? How does this make your pies?? crispier?? lighter?? I just thought sometimes people used it just for dusting the peal...please explain your discovery in adding it to the dough directly.. thanks !
Villa Roma:I'd probably deep six the sugar and oil altogether. I once put a conventional Ny style in my WFO. Well do you remember the movie "Gone in 60 seconds"? Burned to a crisp.That experiment helped me understand my double deck Bakers Pride. I kept getting a burned bottom and a unfinished top. I used the Neapolitan dough the next time and found it worked perfectly.Concerning your LBE, have you considered using some refractory mortar to line the interior? It's pretty cheap and can be found at most hardware stores. Just a thought. PizzaPolice
Great idea Police, I toyed with the thought of cutting ceramic tile and gluing them to the interior with morter but the foil and lid stone seem to be working really good for now. Maybe Mike would like to give it a try on his brand new egg.It'll be interesting to see what Mike decides to do with his pizza bake on Saturday. Oil and sugar with low heat or Neapolitan and rip-snorting high heat. Can't wait to see the pictures either way. Villa Roma
BHC:The tops won't brown like a traditional NY pizza. If you look at Neapolitan pizzas, you'll see more of a charring than actual browning. It's the 800+ temp that gets it done. 900+, you'll see those beautiful char freckles. Since you don't have that high heat radiating down on the pizza, you won't see it.How hot does your lid get? I'm wondering if you could somehow circulate the heat. I'm looking for some type of convective property. Maybe a baffle on the burner to direct it to more of one side so a convective pattern would form. It seems that even heat 360 around the stone somehow stifles the flow since all sides are even. I'm way over my head here. Try running this by November. Once he fires up that big brain, an answer will surely come tumbling out.PizzaPolice.
Here are some shots of my LBE in NE Ohio. This is the grill I purchased for $25 with the hole cut in from the factory.The stone on top is the 3/4 inch FibraMent-D for grills I purchased from the internet.With a few bakes I think I have the gas control height figured out by the sound it makes and all should be good.Thanks Villa Roma - nice of you to share the "secret of a inexpensive backyard pizza ovenBTW - the grill I purchased had 3 little holes at the bottom opening. I used a pair of channel locks and a coat hanger wired to the burner housing now the LBE does not move around at all


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Fresno State Secures First Win in Program History
from press release
FRESNO, Calif. — Fresno State head women's lacrosse coach Jessica Pausewang knew this day would come. And just three games into her career at Fresno State, Pausewang led the Bulldogs to the program's first win Saturday afternoon.
Fresno State led wire-to-wire in a day filled with sunshine and rain, and a couple of shamrocks, beating Long Island 17-12 at Bulldog Stadium.
"The team has been working so hard and they wanted to come out and show everyone how hard they have been working," Pausewang said. "I'm so excited, the support has been great, and I'm just so happy for everyone. They were focused from early on and it all paid off today."
As the final horn sounded, the Bulldogs rushed the field to celebrate the program's first win since starting in 2009. For seniors Kasandra Martinson and Callie Seidman, the win was especially satisfying after three years of hard work.
"It's an amazing feeling. This was a long time coming and we have worked so hard to get to this point," Seidman said. "We can't wait to build on this win."
Saturday afternoon, the Bulldogs jumped in front one minute into the game, and never trailed from that point on. Sophomore Briana Hetherington led the way for Fresno State with four goals and freshman Holly Cisneros had three goals and one assist.
It was an all-around team effort Saturday, which included a great defensive performance, led by goalkeeper Katie Wilbur. Wilbur picked up the win, recording 13 saves in all 60 minutes of play.
The Bulldogs recorded 41 shots in the game, while holding Long Island to only 10 shots in the first half. Adding to the effort was sophomore Natalie Harrington, who had four points on three assists and one goal. Freshman Marcy Levatino came off the bench to add two goals and one assist.The key stretch for Fresno State in the second half came when the Bulldogs outscored the Blackbirds 5-1 to start the final 30 minutes of play.
Pausewang wanted to acknowledge the hard work not only the players had put in going into this season, but assistant coaches Carlee Buck and Lauren Schmidt.
"I'm so happy to have our coaching staff, they have done great things with this team," Pausewang added.
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Thanks for this @ocelot
I thought the level was going to be sectioned off (ie you kill a certain amount of zombies then you get to advance onto another section of the map via the bus). But it seems like it is all open world, which is legit af. I wonder if a player could actually drive the bus although that wouldn't work in single player.


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The death of backpacking?
Younger people don't seem interested in this outdoors tradition.
I keep hearing that the art of backpacking is dying. Usually the messenger is an older person with the tone of the gentle curmudgeon who can't understand why the damn kids aren't interested in hauling 40 pounds into wilderness on a forced march day after day over rough earth, under rain and sun, in order to drink unbottled water of unknown provenance, with a slimy helping of beaver piss and dirt, eat gruel at dusk, be attacked from ankle to earlobe by insects, be watched by carnivores with eyes gleaming in the dark and by mice scheming for gorp, only to crash exhausted to the ground in a sleeping bag that quickly transforms (as the ornery desert scribe Ed Abbey observed) into a greasy fart-sack, and be woken far too early, with the cruel lash of sun-up and the birdsong bouncing on your tympanum like a pogo stick.
Steve Allen, who is 62, a backcountry guide, and the author of many guidebooks, which, if correctly used with several compasses, will get you deep into Utah canyons and possibly back out, tells me he and his friends – other curmudgeons, apparently – almost never see young people on the trails they frequent. Sure, there are outliers, the few Outward Bound and National Outdoor Leadership School groups, and occasional college students who have a bolder vision of spring break than being a body cameo'd on Girls Gone Wild videos. "Mostly we see older folks in their 50s and even into their 60s and 70s," says Allen. He describes himself, proudly if hubristically, as part of a generation, the Boomers of the 1960s and 1970s, that "led the exodus into the backcountry."
His generation read Renny Russell's 1967 On the Loose. "It feels good to say 'I know the Sierra' or 'I know Point Reyes,' " wrote Russell. "But of course you don't – what you know better is yourself, and Point Reyes and the Sierra have helped." They also read Colin Fletcher's 1960s books celebrating his epic backpacking: The Thousand Mile Summer, The Man Who Walked Through Time – about hiking the length of the Grand Canyon – and The Complete Walker, which sold 500,000 copies, "still the how-to bible on backpacking," assures Allen. Maybe they even read Walt Whitman: "Now I see the secret of the making of the best persons. It is to grow in the open air, and to eat and sleep with the earth."
"We wanted to get away from it all," says Allen, "to find peace and quiet as far from the noise of society as we could get. And we did."
The Complete Walker? Isn't that what my grandmother had to use in her last days? Yet this news of the death of backpacking is probably happily received by the likes, say, of Steve Casimiro, who runs the (much-visited, much-lauded) Adventure Journal online magazine, and who in National Geographic Adventure once confessed: "Backpacking leaves me cold. Maybe it's my Generation X chromosomes, but I've found walking in the woods with a heavy pack to be lacking in adrenaline payoff." (Editor's note: Casimiro wrote this in a 2003 review of shoes used for "fastpacking" -- backpacking at a fast pace with only a few pounds of gear. Casimiro often praises intense adrenalin-inducing sports, but says now that he does not perceive a decline in backpacking, nor would he be happy if it is in decline.)
I wonder about those evolved chromosomes, being Gen X myself. More important, I worry about becoming a backpacking curmudgeon. I just turned 40, and I go out backpacking every year for a few weeks at a time, usually solo. Why? Because I like to be alone, sure, but also because I often find that friends of my own age won't join in the wretched fun.
Even in Moab, Utah – the so-called "Adventure Capital of the World" – where I used to live and to which I return every year for a month or so to reconnoiter the sun-smashed redrock desert, I find that almost no one I know who is 40 or younger goes backpacking. This is a kind of heartbreak. The problem might be one of marketing. Backpacking doesn't require much gear (the less the better) or expertise (why trust the experts?), and, if you plan it right, it poses little danger (my own preference). Who wants to market such things? There's no money in it.
Another friend of mine – well-educated, well-read, in his late 40s, but de facto homeless, without a car, an inveterate hitchhiker, an itinerant laborer in Colorado and Utah who spends at least 200 days of the year backpacking in the canyonlands – tells me that he too can't recruit backpacking companions. Instead, he encounters "gearheads" – people who see the outdoors as an arena for deploying the latest technological toys, such as mountain bikes that ride for you, or carabiners that talk, or apps for both. People, that is, who spend a lot of time caressing, naming, oiling, sleeping and playing with inanimate objects, as advertised that they should do in the "Adventure Capital." Then, post-adventure, they recover in various homes with the masses, such as the double-wide tent by the river, with the cooler full of beer, the gas stove searing meat, or to the Motel 6 or Best Western, with the air conditioner and the TV making conversation, as promised on the billboards outside town.
Anecdotal evidence, I know, but it's reinforced by the experts who compile outdoor recreation statistics. Chris Doyle, executive director of the Adventure Travel Trade Association, describes "a well-known trend" in outdoor gear sales, wherein day packs take an increasing share of the pack market while technical overnight packs are a declining percentage of total sales. "The same is true for heavy, extended-trip boots versus light boots," says Doyle. "This is all part of a trend towards 'Done in a day' that reflects consumers' continued interest in outdoor adventures, but they prefer to be in their own bed or another comfortable spot (hotel or lodge) at night."
In Moab I notice the kind of herd activity that not only stimulates the adrenal glands, but also keeps the herd together in the front country for entertainment, offers a pile of expensive mechanical stuff for purchase or maintenance (kudos to the retailers, profits are up), and hopefully requires the services of as many paid professionals as possible (more money changing hands). Think rock climbing, canyoneering, mountain biking, guided group hikes, and river rafting on "Moab's Daily," the nickname of a convenient stretch of the Colorado River that must be one of the busiest whitewater runs in the West. Extreme "adventure" is of course about getting high, dosing on dopamine, the pleasure neurotransmitter. This is the pattern of behavior in drug addicts, drunks and gamblers.
The adrenalized relationship with the natural world is also an experience of human conquest – the peak-bagger's pathology. Ironically, it's not much different from the benighted mindset of corporate accountancy: How many cliffs base-jumped? How many extreme trails conquered? Faster, more. And always the adrenalin payoff Casimiro perceives – not dissimilar to the monetary payoff chased by capitalists.
Ronni Egan, who is 67 and happened to go on a backpack into Colorado's San Juan Mountains last summer with Steve Allen, tells me that "backpacking is dying" because younger people are leery of the unglamorous labor required for stepping off pavement, and too occupied with the easiness of TV, Play Stations, X-Boxes, Facebook, smartphones and "everything else with an electronic screen," along with organized sports and other scripted activities, which includes the gym, shopping and "mall ratting."
Aging backpackers like Egan of course mourn the consequences of the death or decline of what they like to do. But the issue is more serious than that. I believe that our 21st century civilization will miss the radical encounter with the non-human: the visceral experience of days in wilderness alone, in vast and complex natural systems not controlled by humans, not arranged entirely for human convenience, not plagued by human noise. This matters more than ever at a time when our natural systems, on a planetary scale, appear to be in full rebellion against human convenience.
The best action we can take to keep our kind of outdoor rec alive: Go backpacking. Demonstrate it and celebrate it, "not as a mere sport or plaything excursion," as John Muir advised, "but to find the law that governs the relations subsisting between humans and nature." Or as Abbey wrote: "We are committed, my legs and I; there is no turning back. I shoulder the pack, resume the trek, the step-by-step progress into ... an infinite regress. ... I am the tortoise."
Christopher Ketcham divides his time between Brooklyn, N.Y., and Moab, Utah, and writes for a range of national publications.
Preparing for an executing a backpacking trip takes time, money, knowledge, and enough experience to be confident in the wilderness. Many young Americans suffer from low pay and no vacation time, so it's not surprising to me that backpacking might be declining among that demographic. Apologies to the author, but this article comes off as a bit out of touch.
I don't have privilege or money. I chose a life of adventure, of passion, reality. I got rid of my phone, car and friends that stopped me from being the person I imagined I could be. I went for it. I live in Asia, teaching English and backpacking on weekends. Next month, I will back across a network of trails in Japan and then Taiwan. Again, I don't have a lot, I don't spend a lot and I focus on what I need not what I can have for others' approval. I don't chase the bullshit photo experiences of a rafting trip or guided go-pro trips. I walk, I listen to the weather, I heed it's cautions, I enjoy the slow experience of being soaked in a downpour to reveal hidden waterfalls a few hours later. I've learned a lot of patience that way. Or walking for a day to arrive in place that is so natural, so unspoiled that I cringe at the thought of returning to civilization.
I am 'young.' But I pray that there are more like me. Sages of the outdoors. I don't like 'gear.' Climbing, biking, kayaking... It all feels a bit desensitized and gimmicky to me. I hope for our generation. But it's tough. Some days, I feel alien. But then again, I'm a backpacker.
Of course there are other reasons to go afoot geared up like a 21st-century lumpen Kokopelli on pilgrimmage. Here's one of the best: simplicity.
When I am on (or off) the trail, there's not very much to keep track of. I know where everything is, what it is for, and how to use it. Nothing needs to be programmed. No apps are necessary. To travel this beautiful and terrifying earth–with every single thing you actually need (and not much else) squarely on your shoulders–has an elegant appeal that, for a few of us, will never die.
Just one anecdote, but a positive one. I'm not panicking.
We seek the peace and solitude of our natural home in wilderness. Adventurers need not apply.
Social media and technology are powerful. No doubt in that. However, there needs to be a better balance between our time in nature and our time with technology.
To adapt a phrase, we may be looking a "clash of civilization". Mosquitoes or iPhone; pick one. I'm working on a long postponed college degree. Sustainability Studies happened to be available locally. The program wants to make a case that "wilderness" is a necessary human experience and that there is a natural affinity for "the wild". To save civilization from itself, in effect, we have to appeal to this deep instinct. I don't buy it.
You might say that humans have been trying to escape "the wild" since the beginning of the agricultural revolution. Spending a few hours outdoors away from sidewalks and manicured lawns is a great form of recreation. It "does a body good". There are still a few that go into the wild; they are in the military. They don't do it for recreation.
I have to agree with others that backpacking was a temporary cultural phase. However, you might want to be training your young with survival skills; the future is not looking bright.
I know there are younger people getting into backpacking because I'm there with them. They're called "scouts" and often gretting with disdain from the older folks we pass on the trail. That is until lost or injured, then all of a sudden these young people were a happy sight.
While it may not require a lot of gear, it does require gear... and even the least expensive of this high speed low drag gear is expensive. On top of that, our short friends don't quite yet fit the gear found at the swaps.
Top that off with evidence of the "dirt bag" backpackers. I'm not talking about the affectionate dirt bag that is out there for weeks on end, who if met on the trail is the most pleasant, encouraging, and personable human on the trail, but rather the dirt bag that has yet to grasp "leave no trace" means not leaving a signature. This is the dirt bag that doesn't know how to dig a cat hole, much less get it a proper distance from a camp site, and leaves trash in a fire pit.
Instead of mourning the decline of what they like to do, why not volunteer with a local scouting troop or crew? Why not actively share the passion and enthusiasm by presenting a slide or video show to young folks and help them get out more?
I m 32 and have been backpacking before . I live in Toronto .
Aq contributing factor is people's perception they do not have the time for extended activity. In the 70's, the average visit to the Bob Marshal Wilderness was seven to ten days. Now it is two or three. Nationwide, most Wilderness use is day use. The average visit to the Grand Canyon is something around four hours, half of which is looking for a parking place. River outfitters have a difficult time selling longer, expedition trips. So they sell truncated experiences. People who do not spend much time in wilderness need a minimum of five days to get into the experience (my personal observations of commercial river trip clients). Nobody is taking two week vacations these days. With prevailing attitudes, the west would have never been settled, the trip would just take too long. Where, when and why did we develop this belief that we do not have time to do anything worthwhile? Nor do we seem to have the time to develop the skill needed to do something really well. Time is all we have until we run out of heartbeats and ideas at the same time. Why not spend it wisely, perfecting our craft instead of squandering most of it hurrying along to the next thing? Of course on YouTube, Michelangelo could knock out the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in 00:07:26.
I'm all for human powered ways to experience the outdoors. The spirit of backpacking in the 60s sounds like they had it right, nowadays those types of folks who would've been drawn toward backpacking frequently have evolved to utilize the wheel -mountain bicyclists (much to the major disgust of many, including the author and the heels dug-in purists). It is as much physical work as anything and certainly teaches back-country riders an appreciation of nature and to be prepared.
However, frequently the younger backpackers who are left are mountain bikers looking to mix things up. They don't want to ride every day and an occasional overnight back trip sounds like a lot of fun. Unfortunately, the author goes out of his way to disrespect this group many of whom would take the occasional backpack trip.
p.s. bicycles travel plenty slow and methodically to see the back country, there's all types of riders and they stay to the trail which I'd think lessens impact to wildlife
I think that mountain biking is a great way to get away from the distractions of life for a few hours. I usually go after work to relieve some stress and get my adrenaline fix. Honestly, I enjoy backpacking more because it allows me to go wherever I want; I'm not confined to a specific set of trails. There is also something very rewarding about surviving off of what you can carry, and what you can find, for a week or more all by your self.
Dennis Lewon
BACKPACKER editor-in-chief
Its just anecdotal but young backpackers abound here.
Personally, I find backpacking perfectly complements my trail running and mountaineering mainstays. All receive and transmit feedback to and from one another and somehow strike a roiling balance.
And, as for generational tendencies: while I certainly see more parties consisting of baby boomers, I have been pleased to observe substantially more younger parties these last few years. In fact, during a seven-day outing last week in the Sawtooths I didn't encounter a backpacking party over the age of 35.
But, not really the point. The problem with backpacking, and I think the thing that stops people from doing more of it, there often just isn't much point.
I don't move nearly as fast carrying a heavy pack as I do carrying a much lighter day pack. If I only have a weekend, that would mean just 1 night in the backcountry. Typically, I can day hike, out and back, the same destinations I can reach backpacking in a weekend. The advantage to day hiking is I can do something completely different with my 2nd day, so I can cover far more distance in a weekend of day hiking. I can avoid the whole issue of food storage, and just eat at restaurants for breakfast and dinner, and I don't have to deal with wilderness permits.
I've got nice, lightweight backpacking stuff, but then the whole system gets screwed up by the bear canister requirement. Suddenly I can't just carry my small alpine pack, I need my full backpacking pack to deal with the bulk. I have to get up first thing Saturday and go to a ranger station and stand in line to get a permit. In most cases you have to pack out toilet paper, in some human waste. So, it's a lot of hassle with no real advantage.
So, generally, unless I have a goal that I can't reach in a day, I just won't bother with backpacking. I don't see it as an activity in itself, it's a means to an end.
My surmise while reading this essay was that the vast preponderance of backpacking...and certainly long haul backpacking...was going on elsewhere than in the desert SW...places like mountain ranges with established trails and reliable water sources have always had backpackers in greater numbers. I was well aware of this fact even in my halcyon BP days...mostly during the 1980's. I think that we can safely say "the death of backpacking" is a bit of a canard!
Furthermore, as one who was around the scene in those supposedly Arthurian days of the pure BPr when Steve Allen's "Canyoneering" was all the rage, there was, in fact, a rather unsavory fixation on "peak bagging", the latest gear and gadgets and the notion that any hike worth its salt had to be "technical" in nature and essence!! None of you younger folks out there taking on a trail should become ocerly awestruck by the lore of these misty-eyed veterans of the hikes of yore! Cum Grano Salis!
I myself have settled on the formula of a remote car camp with an array of dayhikes that provide a great deal of solitude as well as variety while allowing for the return to a glass of wine, an excellent meal and a comfy sleeping bag and tent...none of which did I have to carry around all day!! More's the better, I say!~
"younger people are leery of the unglamorous labor required for stepping off pavement, and too occupied with the easiness of TV, Play Stations, X-Boxes, Facebook, smartphones and "everything else with an electronic screen..." The author again misses the point here. Perhaps the younger generations of today are backpacking less, but perhaps it is because of the access to so many more outdoor activities. The author posits that young people are leery of stepping off pavement, implying that young people are not participating in outdoor adventure really at all, which of course is again far from the point.
Overall, I understand that we are losing something as backpacking becomes more of a thing of the past, as people tend toward car camping and rock climbing versus backpacking for a few days. But we also gain something when we push ourselves such as rock climbers and mountain bikers do. Is it not possible to suggest ways in which we can maintain our relationship with nature in an evolving human world, rather than pessimistically chastise those that are seeking adventure in accordance with the times?
I think, from my family practice, It's mistake. Backpacking is part and tool of life configuration. No more.
When I backpack, I often see other groups of "young people". I have always thought that the increased sales of frivolous camping items like roll-up tables and solar phone chargers were for an older audience than me, who desired comfort over efficiency in their explorations.
It does require money to get started backpacking - packs, for example, rarely cost under $100, not to mention sleeping bag, pad, and warm enough clothes. I consider myself lucky and privileged to have these things.
Finally, the biggest thing in the way for me (other than my full time job) is a car! I'm all about carpools and busses, but to get to remote areas you have to drive. I have friends I usually carpool with, but I do not have the ability to get myself to trailheads alone. I really wish I could sit down with the author and have a longer discussion about this - there are assumptions being made on both sides, and it's sloppy reporting to claim that one side is the truth.
1. There's been a 161% change in the percent of US population participating in backpacking between 1982 and 2009. This is the 3rd highest increase among 33 outdoor recreation categories surveyed (Hammitt et al 2015 "Wildland Recreation: Ecology and Management").
2. The 2010 RPA Assessment special report on outdoor recreation trends and futures (http://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/gtr/gtr_srs150.pdf ) reports that backpacking participation by people 16 or older increased 14.7% between 1982-1983 and 2005-2009. This was the 16th greatest increase among 27 outdoor recreation activities. The average number of person-days per year that people backpacked rose from 8.7 (in 1999-2001) to 10.2 (2005-2009). Young people (16-24) had a 14.3% participation rate in backpacking, compared to about 12% for people 25-54 years old.
3. The Outdoor Foundation's Outdoor Participation Report series has a 2010 Special Report on Youth (http://www.outdoorfoundation.org/research.youth.html ) showing that backpacking is the 14th most popular (of 41 activities) among youth.
This last paper has some added information that we all should pay attention to. Top motivators for getting youth into the outdoors are parents, friends and family. Most youth enjoy the fun, relaxation and exercise of outdoor activities most. Top barriers are a lack of interest and lack of time among youth.
So, invite a young person outdoors next time you go. I've been backpacking with my sons since their 1st birthday, and I'm quite pleased to seem them now taking off on their own adventures with their friends
being on the way out is not seriously researched as many pointed out. But, who knows it just might incite a few to go try it. I hope so.
I firmly reject the idea that the sport is in trouble. I see people of all ages regularly, and many go out in winter.
I am in my 70s, live in the Sierra Nevada near Tahoe and have backpacked since I was in Scouts at 12. I am a geologist which has taken me to many great places over the years either packing in or to return to with a backpack for pleasure later.
I have never lost the thrill of being away from roads and civilization. There have been many adventures and a few mis-adventures, all just about as much fun as you can have.
The number of nights on the trail is not a significant statistic for me and I never counted, The trips are always a good way to get the knots out of your rope, as the old sentiment goes.
The truth is, it is getting harder to find backpacking partners. I find many of my friends and ex partners are simply not interested and/or physically unable to go, so I m out usually with people 20 odd years younger than I am. I will never quit, I am not a gadget freak and have always been a minimalist as far as gear goes. Weight is the enemy.
See you on the trail.


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>Runner's World - My Event Ratings>
In short: A fantastic event (no racing for me) in which to test yourself against the elements!In full: The weather might have been a touch damp (we've all seen worse) and underfoot it was a bit on the muddy side but it just adds to the sense of theatre that an event like this already holds. If we weren't all a bit nuts we wouldn't be there in the first place.As with all Trionium events the organisation was excellent & the marshals somehow managed to keep smiling through the wet & the cold. I have a new found appreciation for soggy jaffa cakes & their ability to retain structure in even the wettest of scenarios.The only oddity was that I found people needed to be reminded that we all do this for fun! A few more smiles in the rain from fellow competitors would have made it even better but I don't mind being the cheery chap on the course. I'm never going to win one of these but I sure as hell do enjoy doing them, whatever the conditions!Date of review: October 14, 2013
In short: Fantastic race. Fast and pretty flat course with a good mixed field. Will be back next year.In full: Really nice race with a good mix of abilities & good varied terrain underfoot. Little bit quiet out on the course but some encouragement as runners passed in opposite directions for the out & back course. Good PB potential if you're a trail runner. Date of review: September 22, 2013
In short: A fantastic marathon but maybe not the wisest debut choice!In full: I picked the Bewl Water Marathon as my debut because I'm not a fan of big city, high numbers of runners events & I thought that the two lap format would be useful heading into the final miles. In hindsight it might not have been the most sensible decision but you can't fault the organisation, the course or the other runners. A reasonable amount of chat from everyone all the way round, plenty of encouragement from the marshals, excellent scenery & a downhill finish (always nice) made for a fantastic first experience. Despite my background of trail running the course was a bit more challenging than I'd anticipated, that final big hill was a killer at 24 miles, but the HUGE medal and cracking T-Shirt made the final effort worth it. Even inspired me to muster a sprint finish!I'd certainly run it again (although perhaps not next year) but for anyone planning to do it the only advice I'd give is that you need to be prepared to run a lot of the course on your own as numbers are limited & given the nature of the course the support away from the start/finish line tends to be quite thin!Date of review: May 7, 2013
In short: A fantastic event just like the whole Trionium Series. Tough enough to make you work for it but achievable & you'll be glowing with pride at the endIn full: A fantastic run this year. The snow, the cold, this could have been mid-winter but it all added to a fantastic event. The knee deep puddles (for those that failed to avoid them) added a new dimension but the hills as always kept it interesting, both up & down. A hearty congratulations to everyone who got up and ran it, regardless of time. As the T-Shirt says, it was 'Tough Enough'. Date of review: March 24, 2013
In short: An excellent half marathon & with the stadium finish it makes it very memorable. Route would be 5* if not for the do leg at the end. Date of review: March 18, 2013
In short: A very nice & pleasant event but nothing special to shout aboutDate of review: March 3, 2013
In short: So much mud & a touch of swimming!! Best way to spend the day :-)Date of review: February 3, 2013
In short: A tough series of hills but highly rewarding at the finish. One to remember for the views & not the pain!In full: Excellent organisation as always for an ETL race. Would certainly do it again & they even organised some amazing weather (even if it was a bit damp underfoot).Date of review: November 25, 2012
In short: Fantastic as always & a pleasure to run every yearIn full: As always a cracking race was put on by Leatherhead Firestation. Same route as ever but it's nice to revisit the same ground, you know what's coming! A thumping PB this year & the weather was truly glorious to boot. Roll on the same in 2013.Date of review: November 11, 2012
In short: Lovely course, sand was tough but the hills were beautiful...Date of review: September 29, 2012
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Expect the unexpected in Limerick. From deep-fried eggs at a Victorian market to quirky pubs that play host to literary presidents, it's all there for the taking…
Speak nicely to Anne Lloyd and she'll fry some Celtic eggs and black pudding for you at the fabulous Milk Market. The eggs are wrapped with sausage meat, rolled in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. "Tourists taste them with trepidation," she laughs, "but they love them and can't get enough."
Saturday morning is the best time to capture the fusion of flavour, music and good-natured banter in an old stone building that was once a corn market. With its grand new canopy, it's a buzz of activity that attracts traders from all over the region. Pick up lip-smacking spelt breads, fish from West Cork, fruit and vegetables from Kerry, and a mouth-watering selection of organic sausages, olives, jams, pastries and local chocolates.
Make your way into the Limerick City Gallery to find a superb collection of Irish painting. Selection is the key – but a good starting point is to look for Chairopanes, Jack B Yeats's portrayal of a fairground amusement. In 2012 the gallery opened a €1.7 million extension.
No cultural trawl is complete without visiting the impressive Hunt Museum with its outstanding displays: one of the finest collections of Celtic and medieval treasures outside Dublin, and works from Picasso, Renoir and Henry Moore. There's also a children's treasure trail, a gift shop, and a wonderful café overlooking the River Shannon.
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Explore the life of the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Frank McCourt in his old school that's now a museum. Although born in Brooklyn, McCourt was educated in Limerick and wrote the bestselling Angela's Ashes about his childhood there.
Leamy House, a delightful Tudor-style listed building tells the story of his impoverished upbringing. The reconstructed school is similar to his original one with maps, blackboards and inkwells; while a mannequin sits at a desk studying French grammar.
After your visit, join the Angela's Ashes Walking Tour. It takes in a staggering 42 locations from the book, including the post office where he worked as a telegraph boy, and the beautiful Georgian Pery Square beside the People's Park: two must-see Limerick attractions.
The Irish President himself, no less, Michael D Higgins – a Limerick man by birth – has recited his poetry in the White House, the city's oldest pub and haunt of poets, writers and wits. If you're lucky, you may even hear a "Limerick" (a short, witty poem) being delivered.
Every Wednesday, Barney Sheehan dons his bow tie and introduces the city's finest bards. Visitors are welcome to read their own poetry and, for added value, free finger food is served. The manager Glenn McLoughlin calls Limerick "a big village" and says the poetry is a great outlet for people: "They inspire each other and tourists love to watch and join in."
A tour of the hallowed ground at Thomond Park stadium where Munster beat the mighty All Blacks 12-0 in 1978 is a great way to get a feel for Limerick's sporting culture. You can visit areas usually reserved for players and officials, and visit the museum.
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From urban markets to five-star manors, mountain-biking to the red beating heart of Munster Rugby, Limerick is the perfect...
The polar opposite of the memoirs relayed in Frank McCourt's Angela's Ashes, Limerick is a lively city bubbling with...
Author Frank McCourt's childhood memoir, Angela's Ashes, didn't portray Limerick city in the greatest of lights. But...
Paul Simon told us there were 50 Ways to Leave a Lover. We've taken inspiration from his suggestion and found five ways...
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Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Norwegian Carrier Becomes First European Airline With Video-On-Demand
Row 44 has completed installation of its in-flight entertainment system on 60 of Norwegian Air Shuttle's Boeing 737-800 aircraft, making it the first European airline to offer video-on-demand service to passengers' Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
The IFE service is powered through Ku-band satellites, offering passengers access to television shows and movies, as well as other interactive content via Wi-Fi.
The company's live television service can be made available to passengers as a separate Wi-Fi offering, independent of Internet access.
Norwegian expects to have Row 44's IFE service installed on more aircraft beginning later this year. The carrier currently operates an all-Boeing fleet of 737 family aircraft, and plans to add more 737s and Airbus A320 family aircraft as it looks to phase out its older 737-300s.
Related: In-Flight Connectivity News
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This Zebco Crazy Carp fishing set contains all the essentials that you're likely to need to start you off. The set is packed away in a handy carry bag and consists of a 3.6m carbon composite rod with drag reel, 25 each of artificial corns and artificial maggots, 10 each of medium sized rubber stoppers and assorted floats, rings and sleeves and a disgorger, along with several other accessories. The Zebco Crazy Carp fishing set is a great way to get started.
Catalogue Number: 210-4748
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The fight is on...
This week, the big news in the world of mobile music making comes from Microsoft rather than Apple, after the company announced its range of Surface tablets on Monday.
With USB ports and, in some cases, Intel processors, could the Surface take over the mobile music making market? For the moment, no one knows, but it'll certainly be interesting to track developments as the war of the tablets hots up...
Back to the present, however. On the slides that follow you'll find this week's crop of incoming new apps and significant updates, including several samplers, a curious MIDI device and a retro-styled instrument.
Also make sure you check out:
The best iPhone/iPad music making apps in the world today
If you've got a new iOS app, make sure you let us know about it by emailing email@example.com with all the details.
Next: Bolasol Werkbench
Bolasol WerkBench, £4.99/$6.99
WerkBench is a live sampling step sequencer built around a pleasantly whimsical-looking interface. It also features pitch control, low pass filter and envelopes - all of which the app description refers to as 'Fancy Controls', a description we enjoy.
Detune I Am Sampler, 69p/$0.99
I Am Sampler is, somewhat unsurprisingly, a sampler - albeit a nicely simplified one. The interface is largely image based, with lots of white space, with the aim of offering a simple, intuitive user experience.
Drew Beatsurfing, £7.99/$11.99
Beatsurfing is an app that allows users to draw their own MIDI control surface. The app is then played by either bashing the colourful shapes you draw on screen or by running a finger across the iPad and 'surfing' between them, triggering MIDI information as you go.
Digitags iDrumming, Free
iDrumming is a free, sample-based drum pad app. The app comes with 11 free samples included - plus the ability to record your own - but 200+ extra samples are available as an in-app purchase for 69p/$0.99.
76 Synthesizer 2.0, £1.49/$1.99
76 Synthesizer is a virtual analogue mono-synth inspired by retro '70s instruments. Version 2 adds the ability to record and export files, along with several bug fixes.
Liked this? Now read: The best iPhone/iPad music making apps in the world today


text: One other thing to mention is that with all that gas going through some of it's bound to wind up in the crankcase thinning out your oil. I would suggest changing your oil before running it again. don mcg ----- Original Message ----- From: "Wendell Crain" <wendell_crain at hotmail.com> To: "Suzuki SV650 Mailing List" <sv650 at micapeak.com> Sent: Monday, June 02, 2008 11:40 AM Subject: RE: low power and brake issue > Well, I took the "3 week wonder" to the track and something definitely > isn't right. During the second 20 minute session, I ran out of gas. I know > I didn't have the tank all the way full, but this was excessive. I ended > up using about 7 gallons for evening. There was so much fuel going through > it, you could smell it in the exhaust. I never even thought to check that > before. The bike had no top end power at all. Going with WOT, I was at > least 10 seconds down on a lap time. I know I am slow, but definitely not > that slow. We rode the primary bike for the endurance race on Saturday and > going through the pits, I found someone that loaned me some smaller jets. > (Based on another mechanics advice there, his suggestion was to go to > around a DJ130 and remove both shims from the nylon spacer on the > needles.) So I spent Saturday evening swapping over to the smaller mains > and trying very hard not to lose any small parts inside my tiny trailer. > In Sunday practices, the bike seemed like it had a bit more, but I was > still down 8-9 seconds and this was going around most corners WOT. I > wasn't using quite as much fuel though. While the bike was running you > could still smell unburnt fuel, just not as strong. The mechanic made > suggestions on things to try, since I have 2 weeks before the next round. > Since I have DJ mains in it and stock needles, he recommended buying the > DJ needles (or complete kit). I do have another set of carbs I had > purchased, so he recommended setting those up to see if something is wrong > with the first set. (As a quick easy test without tearing the first set > down to find an issue.) Rebalancing the carbs. Do a compression check. > (Anyone know what kind of number I would look for in central Ohio?) If the > compression numbers don't look good, a leak test would be next. (I really > don't have a clue on how to do that one.) > > Wendell > _________________________________________________________________ > E-mail for the greater good. Join the i'm Initiative from Microsoft. > http://im.live.com/Messenger/IM/Join/Default.aspx?source=EML_WL_ > GreaterGood > >


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1 May The USNSC and USSSC will take a hiatus for 2012 and effective with this announcement are cancelled for this year. We are grateful for all the support from Teams and Sponsors and will be contacting each individually. Be Safe!
25 October The 2011 USNSC Competitions
The 2011 USNSC Competitions are now history. A big THANK YOU to everyone who helped and participated – especially the folks from Tulsa County Sheriff's Office who worked the ranges and supported the competitiors. It was a great week in Tulsa, perfect weather, a world-class range facility, good attendance, and fierce competitions. There were over 650 attendees with 23 SWAT teams, 31 Sniper teams and 12 TacMed Teams. It doesn't get much better and we can hardly wait until next year!!!
22 October 2011 Final Results
The Final Results for all three USNSC competitions; SWAT Team, SWAT Sniper, and TacMed are posted on their respective websites…it was a great year and the competitions couldn't have been better. Bruce Power of Canada showed its dominance once again and won its fourth USNSC Overall Championship. Oklahoma County Team #1 (Jim Anderson and Jason Ruegg) were the victors in the SWAT Sniper Championships and won the Best On-Call Team Trophy and Oklahoma Cup. Tulsa County won the inaugural National TacMed Championships. Details on all the teams posted on the Results Pages.
14 October Combat Medical Systems
The USNSC is please to announce that Combat Medical Systems (CMS) has joined the USNSC family of sponsors in support of the inaugural National TacMed Championships. CMS is a unique company composed of combat medical practitioners and industry product development specialists. Their innovative approach to tactical/combat medicine delivers high quality training and effective, intuitive solutions for tactical medicine. We are proud to have them join us. Visit CMS and learn all their capabilities at: www.combatmedicalsystems.com.
13 October The USNSC is open to the public
We're in Tulsa setting up for the 2011 US National SWAT Championships. Check out the Results Pages starting on Monday 16 October for each of the Championships to see who's winning.
It is shaping up to be a great week of tactical competitions!!!
13 October One Prize rule
The One Prize Rule is in effect for all prizes awarded at the USNSC. This means a team/person can only win one product prize from a sponsor. Teams are awarded all the trophies they earn. Here is how it works: if a team wins a stage that has boots as a prize award and then wins another stage that has boots as a prize award, the second stage win boots will be awarded to the team finishing in second place on that stage. If they have already won boots the prizes go to the third place finishers, etc. This provides a wider distribution of prize awards and more exposure to our generous sponsors.
12 October The USNSC is open to the public
All of the USNSC competitive events (SWAT, Sniper, TacMedic) and the Vendor Exhibition and Demonstrations are open to the public 17-22 October at the US Shooting Academy (6500 E. 66th Street, Tulsa, OK 74117). Admission is free.
10 October Ruag AmmoTech
Ruag AmmoTech, a premier manufacturer of precision ammunition, will conduct a product demo of their new Copper Matrix Frangible Training Ammunition on Wednesday, 19 October at 1130 on the 100m range behind the Vendor Exhibition tent. Interested individuals will have the opportunity to shoot the rounds (weapons and ammo provided) and learn about all of Ruag and Swiss-P products. Just go by and sign-up at the Ruag Booth.
10 October Leupold Optics
We will again have several Leupold Mark 4 MR/T 1.5-5 Riflescopes for sale following the competition at below cost just to move them. Individuals who have interest should contact Dr. Jack for pricing. You can pick them up at the range on the 22nd of October and take them home.
6 October Bushnell Optics Demo
Bushnell will conduct a demonstration of their new Elite Tactical Riflescopes featuring Horus reticles on Wednesday 19 October at 1300 on the 100-meter range behind the Vendor Tent. You can sign up for to shoot and test these outstanding scopes at the Bushnell booth on Wednesday morning.
3 October Team Reception and Banquet Tickets
Team entry fees include tickets to the Team Reception (USSSC and TacMed Awards Banquet) on Tuesday 18 October and the USNSC Awards Banquet on Saturday 22 October. Teams will receive one ticket per registered team member. Both events include buffet meal and drinks. Additional tickets will be sold at registration for $35 each. You must have a ticket to enter the reception and banquet. No tickee no entry! We will not sell tickets at the door so teams should plan ahead if you have folks you want to bring to the party.
1 October Team Registration
All team registration will be conducted at the Renaissance Hotel in accordance with the following schedule.
If a team cannot make their registration time they must coordinate for a different Registration time with us before hand. There is no registration at the range or on competition days. Call us at 480-854-9955 if you need to .
23 September Special Ops Challenge
The dress rehearsal has been completed and the major change has been the cancellation of the Taser Team Takedown stage. It will be replaced with the Special Ops Challenge in honor of the Special Ops units serving overseas. Team Captains should have received the first Captain's Update that has the explanation and diagram of the stage. If not please give us a call.
23 September US SWAT Sniper Championships
The only event change (other than some targeting!) for the USSSC is on the Sectorization Problem stage. This year both team members will begin the stage in gas masks and wear them through the pistol engagement portion of the stage. Once they finish firing the pistol they can remove the masks and complete the stage in regular gear.
20 September SWAT City
We will again have SWAT City (area across from the lake and club house) reserved for teams to park and pitch their tents/camps. Plan on bringing your unit/department flag/banner to fly…..Parking by the ranges will be restricted this year to reduce traffic and a new entrance has been opened (closer to the main road) for entrance into the US Shooting Academy.
16 September The National TacMed Championships
The National TacMed Championships has 5 slots remaining in this year's field. To participate a team must register (see TacMed Page). Teams require one medic on the team (1 Medic-1 SWAT officer or 2 Medics). If you have questions about the National TacMed Championships please review the TacMed page or call us at 480-854-9955.
9 September Dress Rehearsal
The 2011 Dress Rehearsal will be 12-14 September following which any modifications to the competition stages will be sent team Captains. We have been notified that Taser will not be sponsoring an event this year and as a result the Taser Team Takedown stage will be modified. Details to follow shortly.
5 September National TacMed Championships
The National TacMed Championships has 8 slots remaining in this year's field. Entry fee includes both the training (hemostatic control, officer triage/rescue and weapons) on 17 October and the two-event competition 18 October. Specific information regarding training requirements (equipment, ammunition, etc.) and information on the competitive stages will be sent to registered teams after the dress rehearsal on 13 September. If you have questions about the National TacMed Championships please review the webpage (button on the right) or call us at 480-854-9955.
2 September DeadStop Shield Training
We will be conducting Tactical Shield Classes again this year and will be using the new DeadStop shield. This NIJ tested and approved shield is a quantum leap in shield technology and provides level IIIa protection at 11 pounds. Teams should contact us to reserve their slots in the training class, which will be limited to 60 students max, 20 per 4-hour session. Shield training will be conducted on Tuesday-Wednesday 18-19 October. More details to follow.
2 September USNSC Discount Rooms
The availability of discount rooms at the USNSC hotels is quickly reaching our contracted maximum. Teams, Vendors, Sponsors and others who want to take advantage of the lodging deals we have made must act fast. Be advised 30 September is the deadline for our discount rate at the Renaissance. Starting 1 October rooms there will be at their normal rate which is substantially higher….forewarned is forearmed.
18 August ALOFT Tulsa and Lodging
The Aloft Tulsa has been added to the discounted lodging available to USNSC attendees. ALOFT is brand new, 1st class hotel and part of the Starwood Hotel Group. More information on ALOFT is available on the Lodging Page. Be advise we are expecting an increased number of teams this year and rooms are limited at each USNSC property. Teams are advised to make their lodging arrangements at their earliest opportunity. At the Renaissance Hotel USNSC discounted room rates will expire in September or when the reserved block is full and pricing will then be at a higher rate.
15 August Targets for Training
The targeting for this year's competition will be considerably more difficult than in past years. In all probability there are some shots that if they are not specifically practiced ahead of time will be extremely difficult to make (Rick said it was getting too damn easy!). It is recommended that teams set up courses of fire/targets as close as possible to those diagramed in the Competition Books. We will again be using steel and moving targets from MGM Targets who is making them available to teams at discount. MGM can be contacted at 888-767-7371 or on line at www.mgmtargets.com.
12 August 2011 Team and Sniper Competition Books
The 2011 Competition Books have been sent to all registered teams. To receive a Competition Book your team must be registered. The Competition Books describe and diagram the stages for each competitive event and should be the basis for your training. Any modifications to the courses of fire will be sent to teams following the dress rehearsal 12-14 September.
13 July Tactical Medic Seminar and Competition
The National TacMed Championships (NTC) and Advanced Tactical Medic Seminar are now open for registration. Seats are limited to 40 individuals in the seminar and 20 teams in the NTC. Teams and individuals interested in participating should review the information on the TacMed Home Page at right. FYI, the seminar and competition can be entered separately. If you're a tactical medic come on out learn something and see where you stack up against your peers. FYI, the NTC is not for the weak or faint of heart!
8 July DeadStop Police Shields
The USNSC is pleased to have DeadStop Police Shields, a division of L.C.O.A. Composites join the USNSC as a Presenting Sponsor. L.C.O.A.'s technology is a leap forward in protective composites. The DeadStop Shields are the lightest NIJ approved shields in the world with the IIIA 22x48 inch shield weighing in at just over 10 pounds and they specialize in customizing designs to unit specifications. The USNSC will be using the DeadStop Transport Shield (6.6lbs!) in the Bus Assault stage. Check out DeadStop's entire line of Police Shields and other advanced ballistic products at www.lcoacomposites.com.
7 July NightForce Optics
NightForce Optics, America's premier riflescope manufacturer, will be an Associate Sponsor of the USNSC and host the NightForce Sniper Hide stage of the US SWAT Sniper Championships. NightForce is known for its high performance scopes that use cutting edge technology and advanced mechanical designs. The NightForce philosophy is to build the ultimate instrument for the desired application. Its all about performance. You can view NightForce's entire line of scopes at www.nightforceoptics.com.
27 June Tactical Medic Seminar and Competition
The USNSC will add at Tactical Medic Seminar and a National TacMed Championship competition to its program in 2011. These events will take place 17-18 October. The seminar will be a half-day of instruction in officer rescue/extraction platforms, tactical triage and defensive weapons training for the TEMS provider. The Championship competition will have two stages and be open to any two-man TacMed team, local, state or federal from the same law enforcement jurisdiction. The Tactical Medic Seminar may be attended singly and teams don't have to attend the seminar to compete in the TacMed Championships. This year the seminar will be limited to 40 individuals and the competition to 20 two-man TacMed teams. The inclusive price is $300 for the seminar and competition. Please check the TacMed Page by clicking the bullet on the right for more information concerning registration, instruction, rules, and stages.
22 June JP Rifles Joins USNSC as Sponsor
The USNSC is pleased to announce that JP Enterprises has joined the USNSC as a sponsor and will host the JP Rifles Cardbox Challenge stage in the USSSC. JP Rifles have earned a reputation as the top of the line when it comes to accuracy and reliability. There is a reason most of the top competitive shooter use a JP rifle. Check out the new tactical line of rifles for law enforcement at www.jprifles.com.
18 June 2011 Competition Books
The 2011 Competition Books for the USNSC and USSSC will be mailed to registered teams on 25 July. Expect a few new events, some interesting new target arrays and serious challenges. Use the books as a guide for your training – you'll know what's coming, do it better than anyone else and you'll be the Champions. It's all really pretty simple!!!
22 May Tulsa Sleep Inn added as USNSC Hotel
A limited number of rooms at the USNSC discount rate of $69 have been reserved at the Tulsa Sleep Inn. The Sleep Inn is a little over a mile from the Renaissance
and provides teams a less expensive alternative for lodging. Sleep Inn can be contacted at 918-249-8100 or check the lodging Page for an internet link.
20 May The USNSC and USSSC Competitive Fields
Slots in the competitions are rapidly filling and we are anticipating a completely full field for both sniper and team events. Teams are encouraged to register at their earliest opportunity to secure their slot. If you have questions about the competition contact us at 480-854-9955.
18 May Avon Protection
The USNSC will again be exclusively using respiratory protection masks and SCBA from Avon Protection. As part of your training teams should practice movement, weapons employment, and marksmanship wearing gas masks and breathing from SCBA. If you have interest in obtaining gear from Avon please contact Anjun Shah at Avon for details on their program: 410-272-1170.
15 May Ammunition
Teams are required to use their own ammunition for the competition. No tracer, incendiary, armor piercing or steel core ammunition is allowed. If your ammo sticks to a magnet, don't bring it. Teams using unauthorized ammunition will be disqualified and billed for any damaged equipment. This will be strictly enforced in 2011!
18 April The USNSC Competitive Field is one-third Full
Slots in the competitive field are 1/3 full and we are anticipating a completely full field this year for both sniper and team competitions. Teams are encouraged to register at their earliest opportunity to secure a slot in the competition.
15 April The Renaissance Tulsa will again be the HQ Hotel
The Renaissance will again be the HQ hotel for the USNSC and all off-range activities will occur there (Registration, Receptions and Awards Banquet). The hotel will offer a discounted luxury double room (2 beds) for $99. The total number of double rooms are limited and with a full field will fill up quickly. It is recommend teams make their reservations early so that they get the rooms they want at the discount rate. Check the USNSC Home Page Lodging Bullet for a quick link to reservations and additional information or call the Renaissance at: 918-307-4026.
15 April Targeting for 2011
The 2011 USSSC and USNSC will again be using all steel and hard targets from MGM Targets exclusively. Targeting for all events will be modified for this year and teams are recommended to obtain at least one Drop Turner for their training. We have six and there is a reason for that!
8 March USNSC Award Categories
The USNSC will award trophies in the following categories:
Top On-Call Team
Top Oklahoma Team* (Oklahoma Cup)
Top Military Police Team* (Military Cup)
* must have six teams in category for trophy to be awarded
Prize packages will accompany each trophy based on prize donations received from event sponsors.
28 February The US National SWAT and Sniper Championships
The USNSC and the USSSC are two separate events. Teams must register for each individually and can entry one or both. Teams do not have to be in the USNSC to compete in the USSSC. The US SWAT Sniper Championships is a two-man competition with six stages, entry is $250. The USNSC is a SWAT Team Championship, requires six officers and has eight stages. The entry fee of $900. If you have questions please contact us at 480-854-9955.
18 January USNSC Registration and Competitive Field
The Competitive fields for the USSSC and USNSC will remain at 40 teams maximum and will not be increased. To date registration is about 25% full and teams are encouraged to register at their earliest opportunity. If you have questions please contact us at 480-854-9955.
15 January The 2011 Competition Books
The 2011 Competition Books for both the US SWAT Sniper and US SWAT Team Championships will be sent to all registered teams in July of 2011. Competition formats will remain the same (full gear, head to head stages, one round per target) and teams can expect two new events in each competition as well as significant changes in targeting.
7 December USNSC Awards
Beginning in 2011 Second and Third place trophies will be awarded for the overall championship team category in both the USNSC and USSSC.
1 December - USNSC Registration is now open for both the SWAT Team Championships (USNSC) and SWAT Sniper Championships (USSSC)!
Recommend teams register at their earliest opportunity to reserve their slot. As a reminder to team captains/coordinators; the names of team members can be changed up until the on-site registration to accommodate unforeseen circumstances. If you have questions please contact us.
18 November 2011 USNSC Registration Opens 1 December
The 2011 USNSC registration will open 1 December 2010 for both the SWAT Team Competition and Sniper Competition. Teams are encouraged to register at their earliest convenience to ensure a slot. The competitive field will be limited to 40 teams each on a first registered first in basis. Team registration forms can be found by clicking on the Registration bullet to the right. Contact us if you have questions: 480-854-9955.
15 November - New Award Category for Military Police Teams
In the past several years the USNSC has seen significant growth in the number of military police teams who compete in the USNSC. As a result, a new category for Military Police teams will be created in 2011. It will be know as the Military Cup and the category will be awarded to the top finishing military police team if the field grows to six competitive teams or more.
11 October - 2011 USNSC Registration Opens 1 December 2010 The 2011 USNSC registration will open 1 December 2010 for both the SWAT Team Competition and Sniper Competition. The field will be limited to 40 teams each on a first registered first in basis. Team registration forms can be found on the website - Click on the Registration bullet. Print out and fax the form to the USNSC at 480-807-4179.
19 September USNSC 2011 Competition Format The USNSC will keep its traditional format for competition in 2011. The field will be limited to 40 teams and the sniper competition will consist of six head-to-head stages and the SWAT team competition will have eight stages. Each stage will be run in full gear and teams can expect several new events in each competition and an array of new targeting.
1 August The 2011 USNSC 17-22 October The 2011 USNSC will remain in Tulsa at the US Shooting Academy but move to October 2011 to take advantage of cooler weather and reduced activity of many law enforcement agencies. The field for both the US SWAT Sniper Championships and US National SWAT Championships will remain at 40 teams each (maximum) with using a first registered - first in process. For planning purposes the following is the tentative USNSC activity plan and schedule.
October 2010
Team Invitations will be emailed
1 December 2010
Registration Opens for USSSC and USNSC
1 July 2011
Competition Books will be sent to registered teams
17-18 October 2011
US SWAT Sniper Championships
19-20 October 2011
Vendor Exhibition
20-22 October 2011
US National SWAT Championships
More details will be published as final plans are completed. Questions? Contact the USNSC at 480-854-9955.
29 July USNSC Webpage Updates - will generally revert to a monthly update schedule beginning 1 August 2010 through 1 March 2011. However, significant announcements, key news and other critical information will be posted as it becomes available.
5 July Photos and videos from the 2010 USNSC have been posted. If teams have any photos or videos they would like to add, we would be more than happy to post appropriate ones on the USNSC Home Page. Please contact us to coordinate: 480-854-9955.
28 June The dates for the 2011 USNSC and USSSC will be posted in early August.
27 June - The 2010 US National SWAT and Sniper Championships have concluded and what grand affairs they were! The competing teams were the most talented in USNSC history and nothing short of inspiring. The USNSC staff was superb and the stages were flawlessly run. Teams universally agreed the courses of fire were the most challenging yet and heat and humidity made the venue a place where only the strong could prevail.
The strongest of the strong was yet again Bruce Power of Canada who demonstrated excellence in every area, winning both championships. They have clearly established themselves as one of the top tactical teams in the world. As three time defending USNSC Champions they have set a high standard for others to emulate and the team to beat in any competition they enter.
The USSSC came down to the final event where Bruce Power prevailed over hard charging sniper teams from Dallas SWAT and Oklahoma County, OK by a mere five points after six stages, with only ten points separating the top five teams. It was a very high quality field and it took the tie-breaker for Dallas, the defending USSSC Champions, to edge out Oklahoma County by .5 of a second for the runner-up spot.
The USNSC champion was decided early, with mighty Bruce Power sweeping every stage. However the positioning for places 2-7 came down to the last event, the Taser Team Takedown. San Antonio SWAT edged Zurich Switzerland by a single point for second place and won the GSG-9 CTC Invitation. LaPlata County Colorado was the On-Call Champion (4th place overall) and Oklahoma County won the Oklahoma Cup. Again the quality of the competition teams was evident with just 10 points difference between second and sixth place.
It should be noted that Bruce Power, in a display of character, sportsmanship, and camaraderie, passed their winning stage prizes to other competing teams. This reflects the make up of not only Bruce Power, but all the teams. Perhaps John LaTouf of Bruce Power summed things up best when he said, When the whistle blows we give it all weve got. But when the event is over we are all brothers and it is an honor to be in this family.
26 June The results for the US Swat Sniper Championships and The US National SWAT Championships have been posted on the Results Page for each competition. Please click on the appropriate Results Bullet on each competitions home page to view the final standings and the results for each stage.
16 June The Competitive Field The competitive field for the US SWAT Sniper Championships and the US National SWAT Championships are set. There will be 40 sniper teams competing and 26 SWAT teams.
15 June Glock Will be holding a walk-up speed and accuracy competition to showcase their new G$ pistols. Anyone attending is invited to participate. It will be on a range behind the vendor tent and begin at 1300 on Wednesday 23 June. Pistol and ammo will be provided. Competition will be scored on time and hits with the winner awarded a new Glock-G4. Sweet!
15 June 2010 Prizing Rules - The Prizing Rules for 2010 will remain the same as in past years: no team or individual is permitted to be awarded two of the same prizes. For example, if a team wins two events (or an overall championship category and event, etc.) and boots are awarded as part of both prize packages that team can only receive one of the boot awards (of their choice). The second set of boots would be awarded to the team next in finishing order (of the event or category) who has not already be awarded a boot prize. Winning teams will receive all of the trophies and recognition for categories and events they win (except Overall Champion cannot also win ON Call Championship). The same rules apply to raffle winners (we'll redraw if there is a double prize winner). Winning teams will be notified when the Prizing Rule is to be applied.


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Jean Foote Swanson
Jean Foote Swanson, 98, formerly of 232 Dawson St., passed away Friday, Nov. 8, 2013, at the Lutheran Home at Kane.
Born Jan. 20, 1915, in Syracuse, N.Y., she was a daughter of Julius and Mabelle Foote Eller. On May 27, 1940, in Syracuse, N.Y., she married Wallace Eugene (Gene) Swanson who died Dec. 9, 2009.
Mrs. Swanson graduated from high school in Syracuse and Syracuse University. She was a dietitian for the Kane Community Hospital for 37 years and had been a consultant for the former Ridgway Hospital, retiring in 1976.
Mrs. Swanson was a member of the American Dietetic Association of Pennsylvania, the Northwest Pennsylvania Dietetic Association and Phi Mu College Sorority.
Surviving are a daughter, Janet Chrisman, St. Petersburg, Fla.; a son, Paul (Becky) Swanson, Jamestown, N.Y.; four grandchildren: Kevin (Jennice) Chrisman, Levittown, Pa., Jeffrey (Nicole) Swanson, Syracuse, N.Y., Michael (Sandy) Swanson, Rochester, N.Y., and Sarah (Matt) Jones, Syracuse, N.Y.; three greatgrandchildren; Brianna and Tyler Swanson and Jack Henry Jones. In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Swanson was preceded in death by three brothers, and a sisterinlaw; Bernice Swanson.
Friends may call Thursday from 1011 a.m. at the Tabor Lutheran Church, 200 Dawson St., Kane, where funeral and committal services will be held at 11 a.m. with the Rev. David Pflieger, Chaplain of the Lutheran Home at Kane, officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Tabor Cemetery.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Tabor Lutheran Church or the American Cancer Society.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Ronald McDonald II Funeral Home, Inc. 103 S. Fraley St., Kane.


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Toshiba Regza 46WL700A 3D LED TV
Toshiba Regza 46WL700A review: An LED TV that can do 3D but lacks built-in Web features
Toshiba Regza 46WL700A review: An LED TV that can do 3D but lacks built-in Web features
The BRAVIA EX720 is Sony's cheapest 3D LED TV and can access Sony Internet TV streaming video
Sharp LC60LE925X review: This Sharp 3D LED TV has excellent contrast
LG 50PX950 review: LG's top plasma television can do 3D and IPTV, and has excellent picture quality
This 46in Sony LED television can display 3D TV and movies if you purchase an optional adapter
With 3D TVs like Samsung's Series 7 (UA55C7000) hitting the market, we decided to take a look back at where it all began: in the 1890s, when British film pioneer William Friese-Greene filed a patent for a 3D movie process. Two films were projected side by side on screen, with viewers having to look through a stereoscope to unite the two images together.
Panasonic yesterday launched its 2010 home entertainment line-up in Melbourne. Australian Managing Director, Steve Rust, opened the event by discussing the company's aims for the year ahead.
Sony announced its 2010 range of LCD televisions today, with 10 new series featuring 26 new models.
Microsoft recently said that the Xbox One will be a giant brick until it receives a mandatory Day One update when it debuts next Friday, November 22, and even that crucial patch won't give the console the ability to play 3D Blu-ray movies--at least f...
We found out about Oakley's GASCAN 3D glasses when LG announced a collaboration between the two companies, and we were immediately dubious.
LG has released the results from a test conducted with Australian consumers in Westfield shopping centres around Australia, saying that four out of five Australians prefer its passive Cinema 3D televisions over competitors Sony and Samsung.
Samsung is liquidating its stock of 3D glasses for its 2010 range of 3D TVs -- the first generation of 3D models which included the excellent Series 7 LED, Series 7 plasma, and $10000 Series 9 LED -- and giving them away for free to anyone willing to...
Panasonic, Samsung and Sony are collaborating on a universal standard for 3D TV glasses, working with XPAND 3D to bring out active-shutter glasses that will work on several kinds of 3D TVs from each of the brands. Production of the new all-in-one gla...
Now that we've had a chance to look at both the Panasonic VT30 and the Samsung Series 8 D8000 -- the two best plasma televisions that you can buy today -- we've put together a quick comparison for anyone trying to choose between them. Don't take this...
If you're buying a 3D TV, you may as well have some good 3D movies to show on it. We've watched quite a few 3D movies since the format's debut last year, and these ten are our top picks. They all boast great Full HD image quality and good 3D effects ...
3D video is the Next Big Thing – at least, that's the word according to Blu-ray manufacturers like LG, Samsung, Sony and Panasonic. All four vendors have released a suite of 3D-capable Blu-ray players in recent months, such as the LG HR558D, Panasoni...
3D televisions went on sale in Australia several months ago, complete with glitzy launches involving dancing girls, complicated lighting sets and fast-paced music. But have the sales figures delivered on the hype? Are Australians really buying 3D TVs...
The video games industry is about to receive its biggest technological shake-up since it switched from monochrome to colour.
The latest business news, reviews, features and whitepapers
Visit our shop for the best deals on hot products
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Comprehensive buying guides, features, and step-by-step articles
First impression on unpacking the Q702 test unit was the solid feel and clean, minimalist styling.
For work use, Microsoft Word and Excel programs pre-installed on the device are adequate for preparing short documents.
The Fujitsu LifeBook UH574 allowed for great mobility without being obnoxiously heavy or clunky. Its twelve hours of battery life did not disappoint.
The screen was particularly good. It is bright and visible from most angles, however heat is an issue, particularly around the Windows button on the front, and on the back where the battery housing is located.
My first impression after unboxing the Q702 is that it is a nice looking unit. Styling is somewhat minimalist but very effective. The tablet part, once detached, has a nice weight, and no buttons or switches are located in awkward or intrusive positions.


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Uproar Tour -- Tulsa, OK -- September 8th, 2010
Well there are a few things in this post I never thought I'd say or admit to but what the hell.... This was alot better than what I ever tried to give it credit for. First off due to the lovely forecast in Tulsa the 2nd stage was moved to The Convention center just a few blocks down the road, kind of a weird place to have this at but beats the hell outta doing it in the rain.
For the most part the 2nd stage is just absolutely dreadful, nicest way I can put it. Only bands I even knew were Hail The Villian which for some reason even the 2nd time around seeing them they weren't half bad. Wouldn't go out of my way to see them or anything but still for some reason I find them enjoyable.
Shittiest news of the day was right after them that Hellyeah wasn't going to be playing b/c of "weather" issues... Even though apparently everybody else seemed to get there just fine. Still pissed about that. Biggest letdown of the day for sure.
Actually went and met Halestorm and they were really some of the nicest people I've ever got to meet. Granted they aren't necessarily my thing but atleast they were nice enough people. Can't complain w/ that.
Left in the middle of Airbourne. Easily best band of 2nd stage... Might be kind of a backhanded compliment considering what they were up against but they were enjoyable the little I saw for them and would definitley like to see them again sometime.
After that walked back to the arena for the mainstage bands. This is where I continued to be surprised. Obviously Halestorm opened up the show. I was surprised in how much I enjoyed them. I think I saw them like maybe 4 years ago and just hated them. I'll give this to Lizzy, she can belt it out as good as anyone. Their set wasn't any different than what's previously posted. Their drum circle thing was pretty impressive. After seeing Soulfly a few times I feel spoiled when there is a drum jam like that but it was still very enjoyable.
Even though top to bottom the Stone Sour list wasn't my favorite it got better for one reason that I complained about a few weeks ago.....
Mission Statement
Made of Scars
Say You'll Haunt Me
Get Inside
Your God
Through Glass
Hell & Consequences
Thank god. I think they said this was first time doing Get Inside on uprorar. Shame they got rid of Come(what) Ever May. I could name off like 3 songs I'd rather they get rid of but I got Get Inside, and THANK GOD still no Bother. New album my be decent but crowd not into new songs as much. But really for the amount of time they got I will not complain one bit at all. They helped me get over the Hellyeah disapointment.
Now to the part I never thought that I would ever say. Avenged Sevenfold started out more as a guilty pleasure for me and I'll be completely honest. I enjoyed the shit out of them tonight. Their stage setup blew away just about everything I think I have ever seen in a live show. Still not sure what to think of the hanging man all during "Nightmare", little odd... Obviously I was most excited to see Mike Portnoy for the first time. That drum kit he played was just absolutely sick. And he was just as amazing as I figured he'd be. Now it is kind of sad as I did not get the very sad Dream Theater news until right after the show. But he really seemed like he was really enjoying himself behind the kit. Surprised this was never brought up. For "Critical Acclaim" they actually use a prerecorded version of The Rev doing the chorus instead of somebody actually doing that part. Kinda glad Portnoy didn't do it, his vocals would just not work. I understand the tribute part but also I understand the live part as well. Obviously I'm not the one who lost a friend/bandmante so I have no need to judge, but it is kind of odd. So yea I may have went to the dark side but A7X had one of the best performances I've seen in awhile. I wanted to downplay them but they were phenomenal and I'm not even gonna hide that. Amazing stage set, alot of pyro, alot of blowing shit up. I'd definitley see them again. Never seen so many of one band shirts as I did A7X tonight. I think they almost doubled the amount of Disturbed shirts that I saw. Their set was same as well. Not sure of alot of the stuff off their new album. Might try giving it a little more of a chance. Obviously as well I'd like more from Pre-City Of Evil but that's probably not likely anymore. Oh well, one of the best shows I've seen in the year.
Yea....Disturbed.....Uhhh. I guess they did same set. Made it through like 4 or 5 songs and realized "Yea that's enough". And it made me realize "wow when I really enjoyed them at Ozzfest... That was 9 years ago". Luckily I have grown up musically since that time. Musically they have not. For all they were talking about their great stage setup it wasn't anything that hasn't been done w/ decent LED screens but really that was the extent of it. Avenged blew their stage the hell out of the water. Land Of Confusion was w/o a doubt the right time to leave. Might have had maybe 1 or 2 other songs I would have wanted to hear for nostalgia purchases but the nostalgia doesn't mean that much to me.
I'd say w/o a doubt one of the better shows of the year. Only negative was really horrible 2nd stage & getting stood up by Hellyeah for whatever reason. Get Inside made the Stone Sour set & I will await the finger of shame for going to the dark side of liking A7X. Disturbed is still stuck in Nu-Metal hell and are taking everybody w/ them.
3/5 - Dope
6/6 - Morbid Angel
7/11 - Iron Maiden
Last edited by 300%_Density; 09-09-2010 at 12:30 AM.
4/30 Nekrogoblikon or Deicide
7/15-7/17 Chicago Open Air
I feel the same way about Disturbed's show as the OP does about A7X's. To me they had nothing special that haden't been done before. All they do is have a big stage setup that looks cool but is nothing special that hasn't been done already. They add fire to every song so everyone thinks their show and songs kick ass but they don't at all. They just want everyone to think that by adding fire everywhere and blowing stuff up all night. I'm sure Beavis would love their show though
I thought Disturbed's stage setup was great. I'm not sure where you're coming from with it's not anything that hasn't been done before with LED screens? I've seen bands with video screens before plenty of times but I don't recall seeing any use one like they have. Is there some trend going on with LED's for bands live I'm not aware of? Disturbed's video screen on this tour is probably the highest quality and clearest i've ever seen a band have ever.
Guess I'll clarify a little bit. Lyrically yes I think Disturbed as stepped it up album to album. Musically no I don't think they have. It still just comes off as more updated Nu-metal riffing. I have listened to the new album. I've given every one of their albums an honest shot. The last album I bought was Believe and realized no I will not be fooled again. There is a reason the biggest responses they get are for songs released 7-10 years ago.
From a live point of view I'm just not that impressed w/ their live show. From a performance aspect. I will agree I might have been wrong w/ their LED screens as yes they were incredibly clear. Maybe it was more what they had going on those screens is what turned me off. But interviews they did before the tour really had them talking it up and A7X blew their stage out of the water.
3/5 - Dope
6/6 - Morbid Angel
7/11 - Iron Maiden
Asylum sounds exactly like Indestructible, and even Ten Thousand Fists sounds very similar to the too. I like Disturbed, but they're starting to stagnate already and recycle the same guitar riffs, drum beats, and vocal patterns. I wonder if it has become a habit for David Draiman to throw a "Rah" in every song now.
I saw the Uproar concert in Toronto. While I liked Disturbed, their set was a little bit boring and the setlist very predictable. It was my 4th time seeing them overall, and the 3rd time in 2 years (Mayhem festival and Canadian headlining run last year), so maybe i'm just burned out on them. Either way, i'll be avoiding them for the rest of this tour cycle even with new stuff being introduced into the set.
From the little I tried to listen to their last 3 albums they are still Nu-Metal riffs. Only way they tried to "distance" (and I use that term loosely) is to throw in the occasional solo which was absent from atleast their first 2 albums. To me the occasional solo was more to show that they could do songs w/ leads in them. Even though highly unnecessary. I'm sure Dan is probably a good guitar player but honestly this is not the band to be in to showcase his talent.
To reiterate my point... lyrically they have grown up. Musically still the same only now the riffs that are being used are not even as catchy as first 2.5 albums. W/ the occasional unnecessary solo. This was my 4th or 5th time seeing Disturbed. I did enjoy them years ago. I've continously given them chances for me to like them and each show is less and less enjoyable. Not being a dick, I've tried to like them, not feeling it anymore.
I can say their last albums don't sound like old Korn or Slipknot because I can still listen to their older stuff and still enjoy it. Which is what I cannot say for new Disturbed.
3/5 - Dope
6/6 - Morbid Angel
7/11 - Iron Maiden
Last edited by 300%_Density; 09-10-2010 at 11:57 PM.
|avenged sevenfold, disturbed, halestorm, stone sour
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