Hey Tom, I was reading this thread last night thinking to myself, "self, these folks aren't even 15 days into the new BASE forum at dz.com and already there are flames and tempers and misunderstandings running rampant." I think the benefit to this forum being on dz.com will be the fact that moderators and moderating are/is already in place; hopefully that will keep the bitching to a minimum. That said, I've been enjoying reading the posts so far... a renewed vigor that seems to have been lost over at blinc. BTW, I hate that I didn't get a chance to spend more time with you at BD. You know how that place goes, though... more people to see and talk to than anyone can possibly manage to manage. I was packing in the yard outside in the drizzle because space was limited inside... and it was brutally hot in the hotel to boot.. and... well... that's where my bud Gary was packing. Enjoyed reading your article on gear selection. Great article and good advice. Keep it simple. As for my first jump, I'm not going to even go there considering the audience and the intent of this forum. Suffice it to say that persons intending on doing their first BASE jump are advised to get lots of canopy control experience (after all, that IS the name of the game); read, read, read; ask lots of questions; practice exits and packing; get a current, experienced mentor who isn't afraid to say NO; the newbie shouldn't be afraid to say no; always keep water, chewing gum and TP in your fanny pack; and MAKE A WILL AND KEEP IT CURRENT. If you do not have a WILL and you do not update it with regularity then you are not prepared for this sport. Y'all take care now... y'hear? Gardner
