jpresto613

Thank you, but I've already checked the listing. The link leads to nowhere, and I've sent an email with no response. So I was kind of hoping someone might have a little more info. "A life... does anyone know where I can download that from?"

Does anyone know if the DZ in Davis WV is still operating? I am staying in the area w/in the next couple weeks, and would like to jump if possible. Thanks, John... "A life... does anyone know where I can download that from?"

Having not been to too many other DZ's I’m not sure sometimes what to expect. I must admit I was a little taken aback at first with the rustic appearance of the Skydive Smokey Mountains. A small grass strip not too far off the beaten path with a 182 and a 206. But after the warm welcome that I received and then spending just a short period of time with people around the DZ, I found that these people were friendly, and serious about skydiving. There were many tandems going off that day, but they managed equal time for the sport jumpers as well (second load of the day). We even launched a 5-way from the 206. All in all I found Skydive Smokey Mountains a good place to jump. I'd go back again.

Have you ever tried to squeeze water from a stone... well now you know how frustrated I feel about Vegas Extreme Skydiving. First I called their 1 800 number, and was greeted well, but after I explained I was licensed the welcoming balloon burst and they said I should call a second number. When I called the second number, the greeting was less cordial and barely informational. I called several times in prior weeks with questions, trying to make plans in advance to coming out to the DZ and pretty much got the brush-off each time too. Each time on the phone I was told just come on out, and we can help you. The day I arrived, I couldn't find the airport, and called for directions and was told to just follow the airport signs (what airport signs?) But, while on the phone that time I was also asked if I had made a reservation and that I wouldn't probably be able to jump because I didn't have one, I explained that I had tried in previous weeks "to" make a reservation. When I arrived, I was barely acknowledged, and the gear rental that they told me would also be available, was somehow unavailable due to some maintenance (not that I don't realize the importance of maintaining equipment but, all of it at the same time???) Their website claims that they are friendly to jumpers of all levels, and not just another tandem factory. But, my experience was that they were less than friendly and don't have very good idea of what customer service is all about. I walked away disappointed, thinking that I gave them more than enough chances to be the good dropzone that they advertise.

Hey, I would like to say a BIG "Thanks" to all for your suggestions and advice. I finally talked with the good people at Bonehead, and ordered their version of the 'Protec', which they say should work. But, it is nice to know that there are other options available too for a newbie like myself. I've heard it said that nothing in life worthwhile is ever easy. So, I guess all these troubles I face now will make my total experience that much more worthwhile.... bluest of skies... Presto "A life... does anyone know where I can download that from?"

Ok, I've looked at most of the posts here that I could find about XXL helmets. One thing I did not see was what some people who have 25" or above size heads have done about getting something that fits?!? Not that I have anything against frap hats (which do fit btw), I personally would feel more comfortable with something a little more solid and of a good quality. Tried on the mindwarp, close but no cigar. I've talked with people at Bonehead, telling me that they have another helmet not listed called their "Protec", with them saying that it has a good chance of fitting because it's for bigger noggins. Anyone sportin one of these? Any advice from my big-headed brothers and sisters would be greatly appreciated. Presto... "A life... does anyone know where I can download that from?"