 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Get Your Own Damn Copy
Stay intune with the freq
vibe
|
|
WHAT UP
Here's the dealieo... frequency TSJ #6.3 release
Mt. Baker, WA – You thought it was over? Think again. With several feet of fresh these last few weeks, lifts running well into May, no crowds, full snowpack, and tons of daylight, frequency TSJ #6.3 drops just in time for those who ride beyond December. From Snowbird to A-Basin, to Whistler, to Tuckerman’s to Alpental: snowboarding continues in full force, and South America/New Zealand deep pow sessions are just around the corner. With the stellar photography and strong writing that frequency TSJ readers have grown to expect, #6.3 features an amazing piece with freestyle legend Jeff Brushie by one of Snowboarder’s former editors Joel Muzzey, as well as photos from Bud Fawcett, Trevor Graves and others. From humble beginnings in New England to practically writing the book on modern halfpipe riding, Brushie reflects on his career, accomplishments and future. Senior Editor Colin Wiseman takes on the issue of snowboarding’s cost barriers and accessibility with a compelling case for municipal snowboard parks a la skateboard parks. With a lot of kids in snow-bound cities who can’t yet afford $80 tickets, is it time we bring the hill to them? Mammoth native son and wunderkind Eric Jackson sits down with Senior Editor John Laing to talk about his rise through the ranks, escaping the contest circuit, and getting kicked off helicopters. China has, until now, largely been a presence in snowboarding mainly via manufacturing the gear and clothing we all utilize, contributor Lorenz Holden and Mr. Wiseman however, break down this emerging shred scene and take a look at a potential massive resort explosion. As if this all isn’t enough, premier photog Adam Clark takes us on an incredible tour of his photography throughout the years with his Gallerie section. Via gut-sucking descents by Jeremy Jones, Ash Christiansen, and amazing landscapes, Adam reminds us how truly incredible it all can be. Snowboarding: It’s not just for Christmas anymore. posted by: Wibby / added: 5.8.2008 / Comments (0) Requiem for George Dobis
George Dobis was one of Mt. Baker, WA’s greatest characters. Although he himself did not snowboard, his daughter Marcella became one of the sport’s premier racers in the late 1980’s and early 90’s, placing consistently at the top of that era’s World Cups. Along with wife, Bobbi, the family started what would become one of snowboarding’s most hallowed sites: The Mt. Baker Snowboard Shop. Mentoring folk like Craig Kelly and Dan Donnelly on mountain conditions and wilderness survival, George become the unofficial tribe elder for a growing culture. With his recent passing, writer (and frequency: TSJ publisher) Jeff Galbraith takes a moment to recall this legendary individual. George Dobis: Fireworks, Honeybees and The Last Mountain Man It’s taken over a month for me to be able to even consider writing something about George. I missed the initial wake at Weege’s place with the requisite keg of Coors. I missed the private “bro” wake at Glen’s spot a couple weeks ago, as well. It’s clearly selfish and protective, but I’ve just hit a space where I only have the capacity for a single public grieving session for any of my friends. And George was an amazing dude and good friend. The first time I had the opportunity to meet George Dobis, I was still a teenager, coming down from the mountain in Eric Janko’s tan VW Rabbit, packed in with Jeff Fulton, Joe Dockery, and Carter Turk and our attendant gear. We slid into the drive at the small home in tiny Glacier, and within a matter of moments were audience to this smiling and completely animated man. Quick to offer to this young crowd homemade plum whiskey, George launched into one tale after another, most ending with his running off of some overly aggressive Forest Service agent into the hinterlands of the North Cascades. I wasn’t sure why we were stopping, with no clear purpose or intention when we pulled into Marcella’s drive that day. Five minutes into meeting the man, however, I knew exactly why we were there. Stopping by to visit with George became, over the years, an increasingly significant ritual. As we seek to tame the mountains, to subdue their rivers with dams and cover their hillsides with planned communities, George was one of the knowing Old Worlders, who understood and celebrated the wild: The idea that the woods and the mountains belonged to no man, but to all. That nature is the ultimate authority and that the streams, the old growth and the creatures within, are in our individual stewardship was a strong ethos with George that had sprung from a childhood in Slovakia’s High Tatras Mountains. Additional toughness, as if it were needed, was supplied from surviving under a communist dictatorship. Sometime after my initial kitchen roundtable encounter, I was debriefed on his story, or at least what we, as kids, were able to piece together: Escaped the iron curtain, swam The Rhine into West Berlin with daughter and wife in an inner-tube—and in the other hand, a pistol, firing back at the guard towers. Upon arrival, finally, in NYC, as George would describe it years later, he stopped in his tracks to gaze upon a large alpine mural in Grand Central Station. Staring at the rugged flanks and crevasses of the Washington’s Mt. Shuksan, George said, “I knew that I had to go there.” Years later, after two tours in Vietnam as part of his citizenship pact, and making his family’s way to the Northwest, he ventured to the Mt. Baker region and happened to see the real life massif he recognized from years prior. He settled in the region and became one of the community’s main pillars for more than three decades. Although at times in confrontation with the local Forest Service, sheriff, and other badge-holders, George was always reasonable, but keenly aware of the consequences of authority run amuck—and especially of the dangers of giving up public rights. But for any episodes of disagreement with The Man, there were countless instances of selfless giving to hundreds (if not thousands) of kids over the years, who walked through the doors of The Mt. Baker Snowboard Shop, looking for a binding part, a washer, or a secret wax tip for the Banked Slalom. He welcomed them all, kids from five to fifty, into the hallowed bowels of his shop, to retrieve that one special item, just for them. This would invariably include a good deal of story telling in that infectious Slovak accent: “Jeffy, dude! – I tell you this…” For the children especially, there were treats, occasional fireworks, and an experience that would leave them wide-eyed and stoked. George supplied more than his fair share of material for my own writings over the years my first published piece in Powder nearly twenty years ago, was a brief profile of the man. My most recent piece, a freelance article for the Swiss multi-sport title Seventh Sky, focused on George’s belief that increased radio frequencies along the nearby US-Canadian border (read Homeland Security) were killing off his honeybees. George was a man in the traditions of both Ed Abbey, and every Cubano pitcher ever willing to float the Gulf Stream to get to the Other Side. A dichotomy at peace in the hills. When I learned a short while ago that he was fighting late-stage lung cancer, I couldn’t quite accept this. This gnarled mountain man who could seemingly cold-cock a panther, would beat this back. There would be time to visit. There was not time to visit. To lose Craig was especially tough. To lose George, one of Craig’s most respected mentors, perhaps goes even deeper. This winter has seemed to hang on forever in the North Cascades, and it is supposed to snow another foot these next few days, even though the ski area is shut down for the year. But even in this extended season, there are signs that spring is fighting to return. The nettles are starting to bud, there are frogs croaking on the few warm evenings. I had heard George requested that we have a remembrance for him in May, when the spring had returned. I imagine that the rebirth and renewal in the High Tatras is as spectacular—if not more so, than the North Cascades. I imagine him meeting a young lady at the local ski resort, fleeing their world together with a young child and wresting a new life from a new land. I imagine having to fight a ground war for two years in brutal conditions. I imagine that the return of the living, the warm soil, the songbirds and salmonberry flowers would mean even more. I guess he simply said, “We’re going to have a get-together, and I’ll be there along with Craig, and Scott Stamnes, and Teal and Mikey P.” We’ll all be there, George. My prayers and meditations go out to Bobbi, Marcella and the whole community of Glacier. A friend asked the other day who the hell was going to keep the tin-badge holders in check in the woods now? I couldn’t begin to answer he was the last of his kind. To George Dobis, the King of Mt. Baker: Cheers, skol, and thank you. JG posted by: JG / added: 5.1.2008 / Comments (3) Closing Weekend at Baker: Sun, Rain, and the Death of Chair 1
Mt Baker, WA - The sun finally came out at Mt. Baker this Saturday for a quick blast of spring riding just before the lifts stopped spinning. The Funny Feelings crew got out for some fair weather turns on Saturday and a rainstorm Sunday afternoon, which sent Baker’s patrons home soaked and smiling—a wet end to an otherwise pow-friendly late season. After 4pm a few die hards threw up a tarp and fired up the barbeque in the White Salmon parking lot while sled lugers raced through banked turns above the upper lodge, braving the storm to keep the dream alive for a few final moments. This weekend also saw the demise of Chair 1, which had already been dismantled by Saturday, the cable hanging slack and close enough to touch from snow level in the chute. Baker’s last double chair will be replaced by a fixed grip quad next season to meet growing numbers of skiers and address safety concerns. Chair 1 did go out with a bang, however. Revenues from auctions and shirt sales have raised over $24,000 for the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center, ensuring that backcountry enthusiasts stay updated on weather and snow conditions in the Cascades and beyond. Although the lifts are closed there is still ample snow with over 200 inches at pan dome, meaning that those willing to earn their turns can keep on shredding well into the forthcoming (we hope) long, sunny days of summer. Thanks to Mt Baker’s staff and ski patrol for keeping things in motion through another deep winter. See you on the bootpack in June—or the new quad chair in November. posted by: Colin / added: 4.29.2008 / Comments (0) Snow Warz III Settles the Battle for College Supremacy
Truckee CA, - (April 12th, 2008) – The University of Reno Nevada reigns supreme as the number one college on snow, as their snowboard and ski teams battled it out to take first and second place in Red Bull Snow Warz 2008.
48 teams from 33 schools across the nation fronted up at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort as groups of 4-6 riders took to the slopestyle course not like freshman wannabee's, but like war torn veterans, throwing down everything they had. The top four scores from each team were taken into account then the top two teams from each heat advanced to the finals. Strategy came into play when the teams were asked to select their top two riders to represent them in the final. School pride now sat on the shoulders of just two. Like final exam time the pressure was too tough for some, but others rose to the challenge and stomped nothing but straight A’s. In the finals the snowboarders put it all together as Team “Harvard United“ from the University of Nevada Reno, wisely sent Brandon Cocard and Taylor Carlton onto the battlefield where they launched Harvard United team into first place. Brandon also took individual honors for the snowboarders by stomping multiple switch back 7’s and a front 7 as well. “I’m just so stoked on my team, those guys really came through for us, it was all a team effort,” said a very happy Cocard after the event. “It was kind of a last minute thing to enter but the whole team was really into it and it all just came together.” Congratulations to UNR who have bragging rights until next year’s battle is forged, and the title of best college on snow is up for grabs again. Final Results: Teams: 1. University of Reno Nevada – Team Harvard United 2. University of Reno Nevada – Team Eat Waffles 3. Montana State 4. Oregon State 5. Sierra Nevada College Individual: 1. Brandon Cocard - UNR 2 Taylor Carlton - UNR 3. Ryan Kittredge - SNC 4. Shaun Ketterson - OS 5. Jordan Kosta – Chico State Tom Broke-off award (best slam): Snowboarder (male) – John Parsons - Gonzaga, Team BigTEST-icycles Snowboarder (female)- Ashley Coelho - Sac State, Team Slack-State Killers Image: Top scholar Brandon Cocard aces the exam. Photo by Ashley Barker. posted by: Colin / added: 4.16.2008 / Comments (0) Kamp K2: Powder, PBR, and Rock & Roll
Mt. Baker, WA - In a. week that will undoubtedly go down in Baker lore as one of the greatest sessions ever, Kamp K2 managed to bring together a couple hundred retailers, pros, and media types for a truly amazing three-day private powder party. Opening with 16 inches of fresh, the fortunate few graced lines at a leisurely pace, ripping lazy laps down runs that are normally rally race scenarios. And the shredding was only part of the deal, with catering by local favorite Milanos, free massage, hot showers and a maze of RV's across the White Salmon parking lot. With a true "camp" style approach, K2 heads Danielle Hambelton and Jeff Mechura led wobbly tricycle races, beer pong, and video rock competitions among assembled teams. Jib contests, a mini banked slalom, and avalanche safety courses rounded out the event. But perhaps the highlight of Kamp K2 was night two, featuring Hells Belles -- an all-female AC-DC cover band, and free PBR for all. With the guitarist ripping blistering solos, note for note, equaling, if not excelling, Angus Young himself, "Dirty Deeds" never sounded so sweet. Thanks much to the K2 crew for the invite and a truly amazing spectacle. Thunderstruck, indeed… posted by: JG / added: 4.14.2008 / Comments (0) Freq Week 08: Deep Snow, Shotsicles, and going SFD
March 13-20, 2008: After a four minute heli ride from the mellow streets of Nelson, BC, Baldface Lodge appeared through the front window of the Bell 206: a small collection of chalets and one main lodge nestled into the Kootenay alpine, and home to Freq Week 08. As we ducked out of the way a couple figures scrambled to pull their bags out of the luggage pile. Turns out Benny and Dave just weren’t ready to leave. And for good reason. Friday morning slid in beneath heavily falling snow. Joined by a crew of shreds from as far away as New York, Los Angeles, and SLC and as close to home as Seattle and The Summit at Snoqualmie, stoke was high. Following beacon practice and a couple warm up laps in knee deep fresh, our guides for the day, Heath and Lanny, introduced us to the Baldface modus operandi—followed by Buff, Karla, Joel and Tyler as well—that would hold for the rest of the week: SFD, or Straight F@#$ing Down. Dropping into perfectly spaced trees with pillows and stump booters around every corner, pairs of riders were encouraged to point it to the cat track a few thousand feet below. The snow piled up every night of the week--if white rooms are your thing, then this was the place to be. After Kristy and Homie J feathered the cats up into new terrain, glimpses of trees and other riders were had while spending an inordinate amount of time diving through my own spray. Laing got so pitted it was “a life changing experience”. Wibby learned to ride trees faster than ever. Jessie Lu stopped turning altogether and straight lined a chute of her own. Jeff even took a break from powder laps to hook into a few deep diving Kootenay Bull Trout. Couple that with gourmet food, fireworks for JG's 40th, a couple shred days with Canadian racing legend Mark Fawcett, friendly staff, ping pong, guitar hero, and a saturday night open bar (thanks Palmer) featuring a shotsicle (ever done jager shooters through a four-foot long icicle?), and you have a snowboard trip worth remembering. Thanks go out to Jeff Pensiero and all of the Baldface employees for a great atmosphere, excellent food, and plenty of good times on and off the hill. The guides mixed quick powder laps with boot packing into new terrain to keep things a little adventurous. Rolling to the bottom of a few thousand feet of riding through burned out trees to find a freshly built booter was a nice touch. Coming home to hot soup, cold beer, a clean chalet, and friendly faces after a solid day of shred never gets old and neither do alpine rock parties featuring Krush and Hambone on air guitar. Great snow and good company made for an amazing week at Baldface. We hope to share the good times with more of our friends—both old and new—at next year’s Freq Week. Image 1: CW Rider: Laing Image 2: Dave Thomas. Rider: Wibby Images 3-6: CW Image 7: Mich Image 8: Dave Thomas. Rider: Hambone posted by: Colin / added: 3.26.2008 / Comments (0) The World Heli Challenge Lives!
Seattle, WA (March 25, 2008) – New Zealand's World Heli Challenge is set to return this August 9th through the 24th, 2008 after a six-year hiatus. Representing the best of the best, the World Heli Challenge invites seven top-notch snowboard brands and seven world-class ski brands from around the globe, featuring two elite athletes each, to come head to head amidst the many peaks that create New Zealand's Mt. Cook National Park.
Three days of helicopter-accessed competition will go down over this two-week period, allowing for perfect weather and snow conditions for the Big Mountain, Backcountry Freestyle, and Downhill heats to take place. The Big Mountain portion consists of charging down 3000 feet of terrain with a 50-degree slope average over cliffs and couloirs, pushing the athletes beyond their known limits. The Backcountry Freestyle realm allows athletes the ultimate in self-expression, showcasing their best aerial maneuvers utilizing the many natural terrain features available on the way down. And the Downhill is just that … an en masse assault down 3000 feet of vertical – no rules, first one down wins! In addition to the competition, the athletes are treated to an onslaught of adrenaline-pumping activities during the surrounding down-days, incorporating jet boating, bungee jumping, golfing, surfing, mountain biking and everything else New Zealand is renowned for in the world of adventure and excitement. This event, like no other, puts the freeride ski and snowboard scene on center stage and shows what it takes in mental, physical and logistical preparation for every athlete involved. The World Heli Challenge Title is awarded to the overall winner of the combined three events, one for ski and one for snowboard, earning that individual tremendous bragging rights and huge international kudos. Past winners have included skiers Chris Davenport, Kent Kreitler, Andrea Binning, Seb Michaud and Guerlain Checerit, and snowboarders Matt Goodwill, Karleen Jeffery, Gilles Voirol, Steve Grahame and David Pujol. New for 2008, there will also be a World Heli Challenge Title awarded to the best overall snowboard brand and ski brand at the end of competition. Finally, finishing the two weeks off in style, thousands of people will gather in Wanaka to celebrate the "Afterburner Party," an event in and of itself. For all details surrounding the World Heli Challenge, go to www.worldhelichallenge.com. At the center of the storm is Tony "Harro" Harrington, a world-class surfer and skier turned award-winning producer and photographer who travels the globe chasing the "perfect storm," while bringing the world's best surf and snow athletes along for the rides of their lives. From the creation of the World Heli Challenge in New Zealand to over 120 magazine covers and numerous global awards, Harro has always been on the cutting edge of what is humanly possible. The result is some of the best adventure and action sports content in the world. Home for Harro is a mixed bag of locales from Australia and New Zealand to Hawaii, Alaska and Jackson Hole. For more on Harro and his whereabouts, check out www.wheresharro.com. posted by: Tara Yant / added: 3.26.2008 / Comments (0) The Holy Oly Goes Off
February 23, 2008: “I wish I was on the highway, back to Olympia” – Rancid, “Olympia, WA” The Fifth Annual Holy Oly Revival didn’t feel much like the Northwest in mid winter: instead of the usual snow and fog, spring conditions greeted riders at The Summit at Snoqualmie. Slush and sun greased the party wheels and more than a few cold Oly’s were cracked in the crowd. Barbeque smoke floated across the run-in as weekenders snow plowed past the behemoth setup: a monster 28 foot quarterpipe below the oversized Olympia can that dominates the Summit East skyline, complimented by a set of dual wall rides and a Cobra Dog stand. Think Thank's Jesse Burtner, wizard costume in full effect, kept it rolling on the mic as heavy hitters stepped to the walls of Krush’s creation. Local up and comer Austin Hironaka threw huge backside airs while none other than Jeff Brushie poked methods high above the media circus on the deck. Danny Kass and a contingent of Grenerds made an appearance while Austen Sweetin gave in to Burtner’s insistence that someone “do the ten”. Despite the high caliber of riding it didn’t really feel much like a contest at all--more like a laid back session on a larger than life feature. Mini-shreds dropped in behind the big dogs and snow skaters snaked hand plants on the lip as Monty Hays chucked mctwists fifteen feet above. Justin Heath slammed on the deck, popped up, and hustled back up the slope to try another double Michaelchuck. Meanwhile, Whistler’s Wes Makepeace gapped a photog from the QP into the wallride to warm up for his musical appearance later that evening. It was closer to controlled chaos than a contest. As the sun dipped behind the trees a few rogue bottle rockets exploded above the crowd to signify the end of the event. When the smoke cleared it was K2's Wille Yli-Luoma and his massive spins taking the title Holiest of the Holy, and, more importantly, a pallet of Olympia Lager. Austin Sweetin was proclaimed the Future of Northwest Shred for the second year in a row and Canadian Sean Genovese made his way South to repeat as the top jibber for his combos on the wallride to barrier. Then it became pretty hard to tell who won the other awards because there was so much noise in the steamed out upstairs of Hyak’s lodge—exactly to plan I’m sure. The Fifth Annual Holy Oly Revival proved that Northwest spirit is alive and well. And watching the local kids throw down confirmed that the scene is only getting stronger. Now get on the highway to next year’s Holy Oly. Results: Holiest of the Holy - Willie Yli-Luoma Berzerker Award - Manuel Diaz Joey McGuire/Best NW Method Award - Danny Garrity Best Trick - Nate Farrel Future of NW Shred Award - Austen Sweetin Hardest Charging Industry Guy - Pat "the eYe" Bridges Jeff Brushie Award - Jeff Brushie Most Blatant use of Reservation Fireworks Award - Terry Parker posted by: Colin / added: 2.29.2008 / Comments (1) Dick's Ditch Banked Slalom
Jackson Hole, WY: Don't miss the Dick's Ditch Banked slalom this weekend in Jackson Hole. We'll be there riding the walls. Stay low be powerful!posted by: Maxx / added: 2.20.2008 / Comments (0) Images from the LBS
Mount Baker, WA: Contributor Mark Sullivan sent us a nice collection of images from the Legendary Banked Slalom. From a rare Scott E. Wittlake appearance to next generation stoke, sometimes pictures speak louder than words. Enjoy. posted by: Colin / added: 2.15.2008 / Comments (0) Temple Cummins and Maelle Ricker Win Mt. Baker's 23rd Annual Legendary Banked Slalom.
Mount Baker, WA: Persevering through record winter storms, road closures and the general wrath of the North Cascades, local favorite and perhaps the mountain's top freerider Temple Cummins, pumped and bumped his way over this year's particularly demanding course to win his third Golden Duct Tape in a field that included 6-time winner Terje Haakonsen as well as last year's champion, Glacier's own Lucas Debari. In the pro women's category, Burton vet Maelle Ricker came from Whistler to take home her second straight roll of glory. Despite a Saturday closure of the highway (and therefore the mountain) by Washington's Department of Transportation (all of Washington's major passes and mountain highways were closed to facilitate snow removal), shredders from around the globe showed up on finals Sunday to brave the classic dumping, wet snow conditions. With sightings of notable riders from Scott E. Wittlake to Wolle Nyvelt and Rob Morrow, all generations were once again represented and inspired. In addition to Temple's win, the Cummin's Family presented the Craig Kelly Award (given to Northwesters who make outstanding contributions to snowboard culture) to the 2008 recipients: The Howat Family, with Duncan accepting the trophy alongside wife Gail and daughters Amy and Gwyn. The Howats have put on the LBS for most of its 23-year history after being established by fellow CK Award winner the late Bob Barci. Although the family normally eschews any focus upon themselves, it was high time these individuals were recognized for continuing this amazing tradition, and a standing ovation from the White Salmon Lodge confirmed this. As the evening skies cleared, the last of the bbq salmon was consumed, and the parking lot filtered out past a multi-colored Volcom R.V., it was clear again that the Banked Slalom is only enhanced, and never faded, by mother nature. - Jeff Galbraith Actually, writing a story about the Banked Slalom is more difficult than you might imagine: Like all contests it has winners and losers - but that's where the similarities end. First of all it is a 'timed' snowboard race that isn't lame. In fact, this might be considered the anti race - completely devoid of hardbooters - sponsored by companies like Lib Tech and Volcom, with big names and legends competing for zero prize money. It isn't televised, and there are no interview time outs. The riders who attend are like a who's who of snowboarding history... from contemporary heros like Terje Haakonsen, Temple Cummins and Danny Kass to legends like Bob Klein (the 3rd guy ever to ride transition on a snowboard), Tom Burt, Pete Saari (co-founder of Lib Tech, who put up a qualifying time competitive with the pros.) And countless others: filmers, company founders and owners, retired pros, current pros, kids as young as nine are all here for the same reason - enjoying snowboarding. - Mark Sullivan posted by: JG / added: 2.11.2008 / Comments (0) Mount Baker Mornings and Tallavegas Nights
Wednesday, January 30: It had snowed 30 inches and Chair 6 was set to open for the first time in 2 days, but only if you were riding with pieps and a partner. Despite a 3 pm flight to Vegas it was too good to pass up and I made the solo mission to the promised land for two hours of turns. Finding a riding partner in the lineup wasn’t too hard and empty chairs rolled up over the waist deep January snow. And it was deep—real deep. The kind of deep where you spend so much time in the white room it gets hard to breath. But time goes by pretty fast when the snow is that good. All too soon my watch alarm was sounding that it was time to roll to Vegas. Following a quick transfer from riding gear to party gear I was on an airplane with Frequency’s own John Laing and a few friends headed for the SIA trade show in Las Vegas. The desert gave way to the strip in all its seedy glamour—everything larger than life and in your face. A seafood dinner at the Mandalay Bay got the funny feelings crew together amidst the whirlwind of SIA. Afterwards, Wibby and Maxx led the way to an exhaust filled warehouse off the strip for Tallavegas nights, a Burton organized go-kart tournament. None of us made the finals as a few Burton employees know how to handle a kart pretty damn well (although Maxx landed himself 2nd place in our heat) but racing ten deep led to plenty of bumping and jiving on the track. It was more than enough to carry a buzz out into the desert night. After a quick awards ceremony a bus took us to the hard rock café where a packed house milled around the circle bar. A thousand miles removed from an unbelievable pow day, partying the night away in the middle of the desert, it was bordering on surreal—was it really just that morning that the snow was waist deep? Mount Baker mornings and Tallavegas nights: not a bad way to spend a day. posted by: Colin / added: 2.6.2008 / Comments (1) freq/Spacecraft/Sno-Con winter bash
12/13/07 Southlake Seattle, WA: With temps cooling, the snow finally starting to hammer, and the troops ready to let loose some post-production and holiday steam, our first ever Winter Bash with Spacecraft and Snowboard Connection at their new spaces in Southlake Union was all that and a foot of fresh. With the release frequency: TSJ’s newest issue #6.2 featuring Spacecraft’s Stefan Hofmann’s Gallerie, the limited edition collabo “iFreq” Spacecraft beanie, and commemorative event T’s courtesy of John Logic himself, most everybody went home with something. Shred pioneers, up and comer’s and more VIPs than a damn Puff Daddy video joined together over Winterhooks and good times to catch up and relax amidst December’s usual frenzy. Among the mingling and laughter, the illustrious Scott Sullivan took the stage along with early freq. staffer and NW musicologist Matt Remine for a memorable performance and the legend himself Mr. James Michael Lynn climbed behind the turntables in his incognito D.J. Ho Chi Minh persona complete with specs and fu-manchu. You could walk right by and not even recognize, but the turntable mashings were unmistakable. Other attendees included Patrick McCarthy, Blair Habenicht, Laing, Airman Welch, the Logic Family, the Spacecraft crew, K2’s Danielle, Mervin’s Barto, T-Nutz, and Pos freq’s MvM, Wibby, Colin (our new Youth Minister) Jessie Lu, and even The Walrus came up for air. Breckon made it back from Europe in time to attend and look, well, rather Euro. If you didn’t make this one, well… we can’t imagine not doing it again next year. Welcome to winter. JG posted by: JG / added: 12.18.2007 / Comments (0) Mount Washington's "Outback" delivers
I grew up riding at Mount Washington Alpine Resort just outside of Courtenay, British Columbia. But since those first years shredding the hand crafted u-ditch big changes have happened at the biggest resort on Vancouver Island. Today I had the chance to become re-acquainted with the mountain where I first strapped in fifteen years ago. It was interesting to return after a prolonged hiatus. What used to be a small, chili-and-a-bun style warming hut has been replaced with a new timber framed lodge and in place of the old triple chair was a high speed six pack running right up into the old pow stash below west basin. Nobody’s hitch hiking at the bottom of the mountain anymore and a stretch hummer was parked in the VIP section at the front of the parking lot. But the snow was just as deep as it used to be. And, with a 230 centimeter (90 inch) base the backcountry was firing—Mount Washington is in full winter operation. In recent years, change has done the mountain well. The most significant development is the two year old Boomerang Quad Chair, which runs up the west peak, over a ridge, and down the other side to McKay Lake. Accessing what used to be a sled-only backcountry zone, the Australian themed “Outback” area boasts perfectly spaced trees, devoid of limbs on their lower extremities, which sweep down sustained 30 degree pitches into North facing bowls. A bit of a sketchy traverse off the true peak of the mountain puts you above a decent assortment of pillows, chutes and powder fields that all funnel back to the base of the Boomerang. Instead of post-holing out it’s an easy traverse to the bottom of the lift making the backcountry easily accessible and opening up dozens of new lines for more advanced riders to plunder. Change is a double edged sword. At Mount Washington it means stretch hummers and more tourists, but the payoff is worth it. Even though there was no new snow this Christmas Eve there were plenty of steep, untracked lines. With the addition of the Boomerang Quad, Mount Washington has established itself as a legitimate freeriding destination. A return visit is already on my calendar for next Christmas. posted by: Colin / added: 12.25.2007 / Comments (2) frequency TSJ and Spacecraft limited edition
We are pleased to announce a very special and very limited collaboration between our family and our textile friends at Spacecraft. To celebrate Spacecraft’s Stefan Hofmann Gallerie in the latest issue (#6.2), we are stoked to release the iFreq hat, featuring a custom cut-and-sew patch with the double-peak and classic snowcat logos, and your professed adoration of both. The iFreq is not available for individual sale, less than 150 were produced and will not be re-issued. Stand out from the mall-boarder herd get (or give) your two-year sub, hardbound Photobook and limited-editon iFreq headgear today. Current subscribers are welcome to extend their subscription and take advantage of this package. Order before December 21st for Christmas Delivery. Click this link for the special offer HERE posted by: Wibby / added: 12.19.2007 / Comments (1) S.O.S. Outreach
Vail Co. - SOS Outreach (formerly Snowboard Outreach Society) kicked off the season in a big way on Saturday, December 8. A launch on Vail Mountain celebrated SOS’s expansion into skiing and 100% growth during the 2007/2008 season. U.S. Senator Ken Salazar joined 125 participants across SOS’s seven year curriculum to recognize the impact that SOS is having on youth development. It was amazing to see the Senator interact on a personal level with Colorado youth. He inspired them to succeed in the sport and carry their lessons learned back to the struggles they face on a daily basis. In addition, SOS awarded Bill Jensen, Co-President of Mountain Operations for Vail Resorts, the Humanitarian of the Year award for his long-term support of our programs and growth. SOS provides a seven year curriculum that incorporates core values to promote positive decision-making in underserved youth nationwide. Programs are currently offered to over 2,500 youth at 30 mountain resorts nationwide. For more information, to donate, or to get involved today, please visit www.sosoutreach.org. posted by: Seth Ehrlich / added: 12.10.2007 / Comments (0) Evo Anniversary "House Party 2"
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – We are a week into recovery over here at evo from our 2nd Year Anniversary party! Those of you who were down for the neon themed bash got to experience the sights and sounds of a historic celebration. Neon clad manufacturer reps, evo employees, friends, family and evo supporters were in attendance. Graced with awesome performances from hip hop’s rising sun, Kid Sister, DJ Catchdubs and DJ Sean Cee. A lot of hard work… and yes, blood, sweat and tears have hit the shop floors at evo over the past 2 years and this party was our opportunity to kick back and say thanks to everyone who has been along for the ride! As people started strolling in we saw everything from neon 90’s to neon construction workers and I can’t begin to count the number of neon fanny packs! It didn’t stop at neon though. There was interactive entertainment from photobooth sensation Usnaps (enter secret code: “evohouse2) and video karoake from Danceheads! Check out the 2min video recap of the night, you won’t want to miss it! Thanks again for being the best part of what makes evo the best place to work! posted by: Molly Hawkins / added: 12.10.2007 / Comments (0) Baker Opens with ‘Champagne’ Powder
Mt. Baker fired up her lifts to kick off another season yesterday and the freq’s were out in full force. The lineup at Chair 7 extended all the way to the patio of the White Salmon Base Area, replete with stoked out shredders from all over the northwest frothing at the mouth for a taste of Cascade powder. A cheer erupted when they loaded the first rider just before 9 a.m. and the lift promptly came to a halt for a few brief seconds, while the crowd surged forward in anticipation. And, despite the hiccup, the lineup depleted quickly as riders dispersed to find a pocket to slash before everything was tracked out. The poachers had already gotten to a few lines before the lifts opened, but, if you were quick enough, there was plenty of snow to go around. While the inbounds terrain was beat by lunch time, the more adventurous, including a contingent from the Funny Feelings office, made their way out to the elbow and Shuksan Arm to get some virgin snow. Despite minimal coverage in some areas, opening day provided pow-jonesing northwesterners with a much needed fix. With more snow in the forecast over the weekend, the season is definitely underway, posted by: Colin Wiseman / added: 11.30.2007 / Comments (0) Michael Peterson Memorial
On Friday morning, Nov. 16 at approximately two a.m., the Mt. Baker snowboard community lost another much-loved local. Michael Dean Peterson AKA Mikey P, was thrown from his car in a high-speed single-vehicle auto accident. Passengers in the car included Patrick McCarthy, Tarek Husevold, and Fred Gaudette. Although the survivors suffered injury, all are now in satisfactory condition and are expected to make a full recovery. He is survived by his wife Kara Miller. Our prayers and meditations go out at this time to Mikey’s family and close friends around the country. Mikey P. was a member of the Burton factory developmental team during the 1990’s and became friends with many at the company including luminaries John Gerndt and Terje Haakonsen. His infectious smile, love for music and down-home attitude made him likeable, and his solid riding skills – both fall-line and freestyle earned him respect. From his hometown Black Hills micro-areas in South Dakota, to his college riding days in Bozeman, MT stints in Utah, and his subsequent move to Bellingham and the Mt. Baker area, he made fast friends with the riders around him and impacted each community. With an entrepreneurial streak that needed to be fulfilled, Mikey took to his realty career with a seriousness and dedication and had been building a budding reputation among his friends and peers at Exit Realty. He had been a frequency TSJ subscriber for a number of years and always was supportive of our cause. From his current home in Glacier, WA, to his friends in South Dakota, Montana, Utah, and beyond, Mikey P. will be very, very missed. “I and I” literally means my brother and myself in Rasta patois Michael Dean Peterson lived this ideal every day. Ride in Peace. posted by: maxx / added: 11.19.2007 / Comments (10) Optimistic for the Upcoming Season
Mount Baker Theater hosted one of this year's standout snowboard films last Friday when Justin Hostynek and the Absinthe crew rolled into town to show Optimistic? Despite a concurrent premiere in Seattle that surely attracted a lot of the local snowboard scene, stoke levels ran high as Justin and riders Matt Beardmore and Romain de Marchi hooked the kids up with plenty of free product. The movie itself was reason for stoke as well. Wolle Nyvelt's opening part was one of the best of the year, killing big terrain like he was riding the terrain park. Progressive riding from the rest of the crew coupled with some Mikey Leblanc comedy, sled shredding (not snowmobiles but actual sled with bindings, needs to be seen to be believed), and a swallowtail snurfer pow section added some creativity and laughs to backcountry AK shots and a bit of urban flavor. Afterwards, the party moved to the Calaloo and rolled into the early hours of Sunday morning. The after party was almost as well attended as the premier, ensuring that a good time was had by all. "Optimistic?" is another solid release from the Absinthe Films crew as they diversify and add a bit of jibbing and a few laughs to the healthy helping of pow that we have come to expect from Hostynek and company. It left us here at frequency TSJ feeling optimistic about the upcoming shred season, which will surely be starting soon. posted by: Colin Wiseman / added: 11.9.2007 / Comments (0) Onside Kicks and Frontside Boardslides at the Downtown Throwdown
Downtown Throwdown October 27, 2007 Sea-Town, WA The last couple months have been filled with snowboard movie premieres teasing us with the prospect of getting on the snow and without much hope of actually doing so before Thanksgiving. A month away. Sigh. Well bless Snowboy Productions, for bringing some live action satisfaction to a hungry-for-winter Seattle crowd! Downtown Throwdoooooown!!! Krush does it again with an impressive roster of riders: Scott Stevens, Zac Marben, Sammy Luebke, Chris Beresford, Pat Milberry, Jed Hoffman, Ben Bogart, Johnny Miller, Gus Engle, Austin Hironaka… holy proly. Not to mention judges: Sean the Canadian Jon Kooley and Zach Leach! … and merciless announcer Mr. Burtner. The Snowboy crew painstakingly built and maintained a beautiful set-up for this rail jam, with one down and one down flat down rail… and matching quarterpipes to boot. "Ohhhh!"s and "wooooo!"s pierced the crowd. More than one jock-o-rama stripped to the tank top layer. The trickiest tricks were treated. Feathers are in? So is turquoise. Air was had. Conversely, heads and limbs slammed into the snow. Demolition-derby-collisions, tandem moves, and glory criss-crossed through the air. As did schwag for the crowd: one had to pay attention so as to avoid getting nailed by the scores of shotgunned wax bricks. Luckily, the clock wore out about the same time as the riders' energy drinks. The results: Austin Hironaka won the Most Laps award, Bogie got Third, Robin Hood aka Johnny Miller got Second, Tiger Beat cover model Nick Visconti took Best Trick… and would you believe it, but that same guy who won the Backyard Bang -- Jed Anderson, finished First Place? Everyone was a 110er that night. Even the crowd got to 110-it to the afterparty across the thoroughfare for an apres-ride effort. Winnas all. posted by: Lindsay Davis / added: 10.31.2007 / Comments (0) Backyard Bangin' in Portland
October 20, 2007 Portland, OR - Stereotypes faced off on Saturday, as Portland, Oregon, hipster mecca of the northwest, hosted the Backyard Bang rail jam. At least one kid with tight jeans was spotted practicing track stands while ogling kids in baggy pants sliding kinked boxes at the southwest intersection of Burnside and Ankeny. The crowds came out in full force to support regional, national and international rockstars from the world of snowboarding. Although Canadians Leanne Pelosi and Jed Anderson came all the way from the land up north, the rowdy crowds strongly favored locals such as Cory Noble, and other riders who call Mt. Hood their usual stomping grounds. On and off rainstorms and gales hardly dampened spirits. For most, this was clearly the first big snowboarding event of the season, and everybody was hyped. The competition on the women's side almost seemed fiercer than the men's, and both Carrie Galloway and Jed Anderson walked away with $3000. Kirsten Seith and Nick Dirks each won $1250, and Colleen Quigley and Lucas Magoon nabbed a satisfying $750 each. Thanks to Bonfire, Salomon, and US Outdoor Store for throwing a really fun event! The excitement about snow in the mountains right now is nearly palpable in Portland. Backyard Bang helped to remind us that for every rainy, drizzly northwestern day we endure, snow is slowly piling up on our home mountain, waiting for some surf-style slashers under bluebird mountain skies. posted by: MIchelle / added: 10.25.2007 / Comments (0) Alta?
October 22, 2007 Wasatch Range, UT - First turns of the year for the Nidecker Snowboards crew were had, and in true rebel fashion, they were served up at Alta. Now everyone knows that snowboarders are NOT allowed to ride at Alta resort during normal season operations, but apparently all bets are off when it comes to pre-season shredding. It's nice to see the "Snowbird off-piste" is open season and that some company's ride days extend before and after the regular season. Nice "work" guys! posted by: Maxx / added: 10.26.2007 / Comments (1) Premier for Capita’s “First Kiss” and Think Thank’s “Thanks Brain”
Mt. Baker Theater October 19, 2007 Bellingham, WA – With stark black and white, Super 8, stop motion and no shortage of creative angles, situation comedy, and stellar riding by the likes of Tyler Lepore, Dan Brisse, T.J. Schneider and the corps of the Capita collective, “First Kiss” stoked out the foyer crowd with dreamy Japan sections and flowing pow drops. Up from Sea Town, Capita OG Blue Montgomery, brought swag and stoke for this enthusiastic and moderately emo college crowd. The main event for the eve was the B-ham premier of Jesse Burtner and Sean Genovese’s Think Thank productions “Thanks Brain”. And it did not disappoint. With Patrick McCarthy, Lucas Debari, Jesse Burtner, John Laing, 686’s Will Redd, photog Mike Yoshida, and the cast of usual suspects on hand, the lights went down. For 10+ years, Jesse Burtner has been riding a steady wave of his own creation, with early efforts like “110%” highlighting his skate-video approach and his absurd ability to spot and motivate talent in the most unlikely of places. This season’s offering “Thanks Brain” is a distillation of this decade of hard work, dedication to original ideas, and fearlessness. Picking up where “Patchwork Patterns” left off – that is, returning snowboarding to its original state of play: hippy hops, one footers, high jumps, shove-its, ie sledding with fancier gear – “Thanks Brain” takes the viewers on a barnstorming tour of the next wave of NW talent and creative riding. From Gus Engle’s ridiculous mutli-hippy hops, to Burtner’s massive McOne-footers off big booters, to Sean Genovese’s schoolyard missions, to Lucas Debari, Matt Edgers and Blair Habenecht’s freeride attack, Burtner’s films have evolved well beyond the herd of most “snowboring” movies, and is running far in front of the major filmmakers. Thanks Thanks Brain. posted by: maxx / added: 10.22.2007 / Comments (1) Dropping in… Already!
With an insanely early Oct. burst of freshness, Mt. Baker received over 20 inches last week, in less than 24 hours, on top of a small base from storms the previous several days. While the sudden midweek slam took most by surprise, a few of the area’s finest made it up for first tracks of the 07/08 season -- or the final storm of the 06/07 season, depending upon how you view it. Maple Falls regulator, Mt. Baker avalanche safety instructor Jeff Hambleton and frequency building contractor, snaps a clean slash only two weeks past summer (Oct 5). It’s on. JG photo: Pak K posted by: Jeff Galbraith / added: 10.10.2007 / Comments (2) Thanks Brain premier goes wild
Sept. 22 Seattle, WA: In what has clearly become the NW's biggest snowboarding premier of the season, Think Thank premiered it's newest film, "Thanks Brain" to a sold out home-town crowd at evoseattle. Hundreds waited anxiously outside to get in, while inside Spacecraft Clothing held their legendary sticker release in the Times Art Gallery. Photographers Mike Yoshida and budding talent Steven Brecken exhibited their favorite picks taken during the filming of the movie this past season, a must see in their own right.
The movie included an exclusive "premier edit" along with a special film-short that featured the musical talents of filmmaker Jesse Burtner's brother, Matt and his band "Metasax and Drumthings" (who scored original music for both films). A live soundtrack to a snowboard film was an industry first and added a great performance to all those who managed to make it in to the premier. Hundreds of pints were consumed in the beer garden, countless high-fives were thrown, and an unknown quantity of stoke was generated which made for an evening of revelry the likes of which have not been seen in Fremont since the 60's! Look for Think Thank's new film "Thanks Brain" at your favorite snowboard shop. View article / posted by: maxx / added: 9.26.2007 / Comments (2) Snowboard Connection opens new store
Sept. 15
Seattle, WA: The Snowboard Connection has ushered in a new era for northwest snowboarding with its new location in Downtown Seattle. Their new store, located across from REI’s flagship store (The #2 tourist attraction in Seattle, behind the Space Needle) exemplifies founder John Logic’s dedication and 15 years as a pillar of northwest snowboarding.
Hourly giveaways of prizes from long-time shop staples like Lib Tech, Volcom, Option Snowboards, Burton, and Vans kept the crowd anxious for the next big draw. Patrick McCarthy even gave away a signed board to one lucky lady. No word on whether or not there were digits exchanged. The grand opening was a resounding success, as the store filled with stoked customers, industry heads, pros, and the occasional REI interloper. By closing time a full-on skate jam was going down inside the shop amidst simultaneous shotgunning (PBR not Remington). Some Sno-Con traditions will never die! Big thanks to John, Adam, and the whole Sno-Con crew for 15 years of stoke for NW snowboarding. With the new store, shredding has never looked so good. View article / posted by: maxx / added: 9.17.2007 / Comments (0) My blob aboot what I did at Whistler summer camp (of Champs). Pt. 1
So this one time at snowboard camp… isn’t that how stories about camp all start these days?...
click on 'view article' to read the rest of the story. View article / posted by: Sean Genovese / added: 9.4.2007 / Comments (0) frequency: TSJ’s Agent X goes Coast to Coast
frequency: TSJ writer Agent X appears on Coast to Coast am web/radio show
Aerial photojournalist, self-taught weapons expert, science writer, and one of the original “Dreamland Interceptors” (first individuals to document and call attention to the pentagon’s “secret” testing facilities in Groom Lake, NV)… Mark Farmer AKA Agent X has been a friend of frequency: TSJ’s from day one and even longer for myself. Chris Brunkhart, Walter Sims and I, had the fortune of first meeting X in person outside the Tropicana Hotel and Casino, after the SIA trade show in Las Vegas. He was the one wearing a full military jumpsuit, boonie hat and toting a gun case with his mini-SK assault rifle (M-16A2).. After climbing into our rented Sedan de Ville, we lit out at 100 mph our into the Nevada desert. At a point past the Nellis Airforce base, we hiked up into the hills and rendezvoused with UFO notable Glen Campbell and other interested observers. “There’s a MIG!” someone excitedly declared, spotting the Russian warplane in town for the annual Air Force’s Green Flag exercise. “It’s fun to get together and try to figure out who’s the government informer,” X laughed, kind of. Shortly thereafter, we took a brand spanking new Movement snowboard (certainly a collectible now) out of the plastic. Set ‘er up on a saguaro cactus and unloaded dozen’s of rounds through the board. A very cathartic end to another harsh week at the Vegas trade show. Later we made our way to Rachel, NV, the famed “black mailbox” (site of many UFO sightings), and had dinner and beers at the Little Ale’inn, stayed in a beat down hotel and headed back in the am. Farmer is intelligent, well-spoken and mad as hell at the current buffoons in control of the White House. We are proud to call him a friend and look forward to more contributions in the future. Check out his interview on Coast to Coast about HAARP and other secret govt programs, as well as his own site at www.topcover.com Believe in boron. posted by: Jeff Galbraith / added: 9.4.2007 / Comments (0) Displaced snowboarders unite for cause
This past weekend the fourth annual Surfing and Traditions gathering and surf contest was held at La Gnar, WA. A cultural celebration of traditions and surfing, combined over a three day event. The first day was for the kids. With a purpose of bringing together area youth to catch some waves and learn about taking advantage of the beautiful Northwest outdoors. Volunteers set about teaching the kids how to get out there and catch some stoke on the water and then brought them into the warmth of the tribal center for some closing ceremonies, a salmon bake, and a raffle give away from the some of the cool companies like Freq, Mervin, Circa, Hurley, One Ball Jay, NXNXW Surf Shop, and too many more to list.
The second day was for those willing to be judged, or at least thinking they had a chance to rip some not so killer waves in the surf contest. Over the course of the afternoon about fifty or so competitors hacked it out in the sun for little more than bragging rights for a year. The winners also received a nice hand carved paddle, thanks to Grey Eagle, and a new snowboard from Mervin. When all was said and done and the dust settled there were some stoked locals with armloads of goodies from all the killer sponsors who donated for the contest and raffle. Check out www.surfingandtraditions.com for the winners and look for some footy on the next Home School Production. On Sunday it was time to clean up – er, recycle all the beer cans from the night’s hard charging and pick up trash on the beach during the Surfrider Foundation’s annual Beach clean-up. All in all, this was a big huge gathering of all the folks you think you won’t see until opening day on the mountain, doing what they do best - having a great time for good reason. Thanks to everyone who came out, and espescially the Quileute Tribe for having us. posted by: Andrew Carlson / added: 7.9.2007 / Comments (0) Mt. Hood blows up!
Shortly before dusk Patrick McCarthy and I pulled into to Government camp. What lay before our eyes was nothing short of insanity. A mob of teenagers crowded around a stage set in the middle of town. Stepping onto the stage, Andrew Crawford began beating out a drum solo lasting a solid 2 minutes while the kids went berserk. This was followed by a blaring guitar solo and Crawford screaming out Motorhead lyrics. The crowd went wild, stage diving ensued, and High Cascade Snowboard Camp's “Air Band challenge” had ended in a show of pure energy. Crawford is the king of the air- guitar. Events like this can only happen at summer camp.
After the shipping of our newest issue, 6.1, I decided to take the release party on the road. Patrick McCarthy and I headed to snowboarding’s summertime ground zero, Mt. Hood, to visit the camps, shred some summer snow, and party like a couple of 15 year olds. Fueled by Cobra Dogs and Volcano cones, we made our assault on Mt. Hood as if we were trying to cram an entire summer of debauchery into 3 days. I suppose you could call it a success. We were invited to a Japanese dinner with the Adult and Japanese campers (If you’re over 18 and want to experience the best freestyle setup in the northern hemisphere, you must seriously consider going to HCSC) which was followed by a trip down memory lane to the notorious Ratskeller Tavern. Cover-boy McCarthy spent the rest of the night signing copies of frequency:TSJ’s newest issue while living up to his irish talents of alcohol consumption. Day-two was essentially a sequel to day one including a halfpipe demo put on by Josh Dirksen, Austin Smith, as well as famed coach James Jackson. Ben Bogart, Jesse Burtner, and Janna Mayen captivated campers on the rails with some stunning combos. Janna proved her X-Games three-pete worthiness and more than one camper was seen taking notes. Mini ramp sessions, dodgeball, and a massive BBQ followed that evening but what really capped the night off was the 80’s dance party and Karakoe rampage held at the Burton Demo center. Those guys can belt out “99 Red Ballons” like nobody’s business. Huge thanks to Brian Reid (Freq-week attendee) and Timberline Lodge for the amazing facilities. The public park now rivals the camps! Snowboarding in the summertime has never been so much fun. Looking back on my first summer shred experience back in 1989, things have certainly improved at camp. Thanks to Kevin, Preston, and the whole HCSC staff for an awesome time. posted by: maxx / added: 6.29.2007 / Comments (0) Josh's Boutique
On the morning of May 23rd, Seattle radio station 107.7 The End announced that the Beastie Boys were playing a surprise show at The Crocodile two days later, and three days before their scheduled headliner gig at the massive Sasquatch Music Festival at the Gorge Amphitheater in Eastern WA. The show in Seattle was a total surprise to everyone, including the bands promoters. Tickets went on sale the same day the show was announced and sold out in under 30 seconds. For contrast, the last time I saw the Beastie Boys in Seattle was at a sold out show at the Key Arena with a 16,000+ the Crocodile, holds 500 max. To say the least, it was "up-close and personal," and I felt privileged to see them in such a small venue. It definitely brought me back to the "good ol' days," and in keeping with this, they played a good mix of songs from old to new to an all-ages crowd that was just as diverse. For as last minute as the show was, everything ran very smoothly. After the show, the boys loaded up into their tour bus and head off to the Gorge where they played the Sasquatch festival the next day. "When asked why the Crocodile?" I simply replied, "Maybe they're just keeping it real."posted by: Josh Thompson / added: 6.6.2007 / Comments (1) Ullr Girl is Crowned
For those not familiar with Norse mythology, Ullr, son of Sif and stepson of Thor, is the deity many crusty mountain folk believe, to be the patron god of winter he is the one that bring snow to the hills and is the beneficiary of many early season sacrificial bonfire rituals. According to legend Ullr is a man, but the fine folks at Whistler Resort held a contest to find out, “What if Ullr was a Girl?”
The contest started out with ladies submitting profiles of themselves to the www.ifullrwasagirl.com website, with thousands of women submitted photo’s and bios. After months of voting, the top 14 vote’s were brought to Whistler for the other three parts of the contest, big mountain, park, arts and culture… And to up the ante a bit Whistler, threw in a $25,000 purse. That’s $25K (CDN) cash, not a purse worth $25K. Arriving in Whistler this posse of very talented females included top names such as Joanna Dzierzawski, Mercedes Nicoll, Leanne Pelosi, Nevada's very own Bev Vuilleumier and a few hopeful ams from around the globe. While I only viewed the Arts and Culture event, I was completely blown away by these athletes, honestly expecting a junior-high level talent display these ladies went all out and put on a very impressive show of dancing, singing and art that would please even the harshest critics. These women certainly do more than just tear up the mountains... When all the votes, numbers and beers were counted, Skier Grete Kliassen walked away with the cash and the title. Congrats Grete…Keep an eye out for this Norse god-turned-godess. And in a dramatic finish to an impressive event -- and as if to answer the question of the day, “What if Ulr was a girl?” -- Grete donated here entire purse to charity. Amazing. Check this link to download the Ullr video Special thanks to Michelle, Kim, Heather, Verity, Meredith, Lisa and the rest of the WB staff for the invites and hook ups. posted by: Wibby / added: 5.4.2007 / Comments (0) Closing Daze
Chair Seven Base, Mt. Baker, WA: With over a 167” base still remaining, Mt. Baker closed for the winter and people gathered from all over the country to kick off the last day of the season. It was the perfect weather to have a last day séance with bluebird skies on Saturday and partial sun on Sunday. Pretty sweet for the Northwest in the springtime, and especially sweet considering it rained a fair amount more than usual in March.
It was a mellow day, indeed, with people getting one last shred before summer hits. Many of the local pros such as Patrick McCarthy, Mark Landvik, Nathan Lind, Lucas Debari, John Laing, and many more were all there to pay tribute before they made their final turn round the bullwheel. With customary BBQ’s in the parking lot, alpine pink tutus, a salmon bake, a sumo wrestler, clowns (gapers and carnies), beer, and lots of smiles, it all came to a glorious end for some. For the summer self-ascenders, it’s just beginning. Thanks to Mt. Baker, friends, and fellow snowboarders for the great 2007 winter season. posted by: Desiree / added: 5.2.2007 / Comments (0) Grenerds Invade Seattle!
Summit-at-Snoqualmie, WA – April 20, 2007. A day that will live in infamy for Northwest snowboarding as we know it. Well actually, April 19-21. It was on these days that Grenade's army of shred-soldiers descended on the Seattle area for the now legendary "Grenade Games". The festivities kicked off on Thursday night 4/19 at the unlikely (and unprepared) Fox Sports Bar in Downtown Seattle. This "sports bar" set the pace for debauchery that would later ensue throughout the weekend. After countless high-fives and road-sodas, the food began flying. I suppose when a $5000.00 flat-screen TV gets defaced by a rogue cheeseburger it's officially a Grenade party. Thanks to the Mexican Ponchos and tie-die t's handed out, the activities of the next few days would be "extra-stoney" as one Kass brother put it.
Day-two is where the Mayhem really kicked in. I'm not sure The Summit at Snoqualmie knew what they had coming when they agreed to host the Games but Krush and Co. set the mountain up proper. They provided a monster halfpipe, triple jump line of mountainous proportions, rails galore and an event compound straight out of a Cheech-and-Chong wet-dream. Ground-zero included Cobra Dogs, a Monster Energy/Margarita booth, concert stage, and not-so-misty 4/20 welcome center. (The rice-crispy treats were delish!) Later that afternoon, the "chinese-eyed downhill" delivered an all-out snowball fight as contestants bombed a mogul field on Lib Tech skate-bananas sans-bindings whilst being pelted with snowballs and the occasional frozen banana. Later that night "The Garage" hosted a bowling and beer-bongs party. Hangovers were reported. The rest of the weekend was a blur of a slopestyle contest ,a Dunk-a-Dingo/Kass booth, Punk-rock music meets slush, and serious snowboarding skills. One can only speculate if The Grenade Games will grace the Pacific Northwest again next year. Hopefully the Grenerds will come back with equal ferocity and more treats. Thanks to Kirsten and the Scurvy Bastards for pulling it all together. (I think the term "herding cats" was used more than once.) Big-ups to Matt and Danny Kass for giving us all a reason to put the hooka down for a minute on 4/20 and strap on our shred-sticks. See you next April! posted by: Maxx / added: 5.1.2007 / Comments (1) Telus Festival 07
It's always good to be back in Whistler, and especially for the 07 Telus
World Ski and Snowboard Festival. For those not in the know, the Telus Festival is one of, if not the largest, winter festival in the world. Ten days of music, art, booze, contests and general shredding on Whistler/Blackcomb. Each day features an impressive assortment of events and activities ranging from last night's Stephen Marley performance to the week-long urban-inspired art show, Brave Art.. Check whistler2007.com for the event schedule.
Besides the planned PG activities, each night in this fabled après town lasts early into each morning. Telus Tip #1: if you are not a local, and want to get into any of the popular bars, arrive early the lines build up fast and once the club is packed, ain't nobody leaving. A quarter-million additional visitors rolling through town this a week--you get the idea. All in all, if you can, get up to here! The deepest snowpack in 10 years, snowing in the village and the shredding is pretty damn good for April. I rode pow yesterday, did you? View article / posted by: Wibby / added: 4.16.2007 / Comments (0) Bob Barci, Father of NW Snowboarding, Ride In Peace.
Although Craig Kelly had an enormous influence on snowboarding in the Northwest, there were certainly individuals who had an enormous influence on his life and career. Today, all in the NW snowboard community are mourning the loss of Bob Barci, who, by nearly any account was one of the pivotal folk in helping the NW gain prominence in snowboarding’s now global culture.
Opening the Bikefactory in Bellevue, WA in the late ‘70’s Bob took a risk on BMX and skateboarding at a time when the two sports were definitely not videogame material. Soon, he extended this passion and stoke, both on retail and a personal level, to snowboarding, providing boards to the few interested parties years before any other area retailers. At a time when lift access was not even in the cards and Mike Ranquet was likely a grade-schooler, Bob was tromping the hills of Highway 2 and Steven’s Pass with the earliest version Flite and Sims boards, sleeping in decrepit Forest Service A-frames and blazing a trail for an entire generation. Years later, Carter Turk, Jeff Fulton, Eric Janko, Dan Donnelly, and of course, Craig Elmer Kelly, were drawn to the man as their own learning curves brought them to a point where they wanted to run their skills against others. The Bikefactory team began. In 1985, Bob went to Mt. Baker’s Duncan Howat and asked about the possibility of running a race for these guys. For the first several years of this event, Bob was the timer, organizer and final judge for the course. 22 years later, the Legendary Banked Slalom remains the best event in the world. A few years after starting the LBS, as the event became big enough to limit the field, Bob reached out once again, helping to create the NW Series. This completely open series with reasonable entry fees allowed for any kid to step up and ride in any of the events from Baker to Snoqualmie to Mission to Hood and even 49 Degrees North. For folks like Peter Line, Jamie Lynn, Dave Lee, Joey McGuire and others, this was their first opportunity to compete and meet kids from other resorts. Bob Barci was our first subscriber here at frequency TSJ, sending a check the day he saw it. He never let his sub lapse and he never missed an issue. This past February, weathered by his long and strong battle with stomach cancer, Bob still managed to make it to the Banked Slalom, as he had for most of the last two decades. Being the previous year’s recipient, it was his turn to give away the Craig Kelly Award (for NW individuals who have made a significant contribution to snowboarding). Although he held the mic about a foot away from his mouth and most of the couple hundred people in attendance didn’t hear a word he said, his thoughts were inspired and moving. Most had no idea he was dying as he held the granite and hardwood CK thunderbird trophy. As I stood next to him I listened intently, here’s as a best a paraphrase of this speech I can offer: “Craig was a good friend of mine. He was more than just a team rider, or another bro, he was an inspiration. Being around him was an incredible energy and watching him made us all believe anything was possible with snowboarding. And when I look at this trophy, I have to say it is in keeping with Craig’s spirit. The eagle, with its watchful eyes and broad wings, sees much and goes far. The totem below the Thunderbird head represents a base of friendships and close-knit ties which provide support. And when I noticed the pegs holding the wings to the body got knocked a little loose, I realized that the trophy, like Craig himself, reminds us that life is delicate. We are not here forever, and Craig’s life reminds us to make the most of the time we have.” Bob went on to introduce the Cummins family as the 2007 CK Award recipients, calling Mike, Matt, Temple, Joe and Cheryl, Barrett and Cannon up to the stage appropriately. Every region in snowboarding’s world, from Tasmania to Tyrol Basin, has a Bob Barci the guy who organized, preached, believed, and grew a culture for thirty years. Bob Barci passed away at his home in Fall City last night, surrounded by his family. For myself, although this is a sad day, I am reminded of why we do what we do around here. Thanks, Bob, Jeff Galbraith Photo from frequency TSJ 3.3: 1983, Sauk Mt., WA. Photog: Kevin Ward. posted by: Jeff Galbraith / added: 4.10.2007 / Comments (8) La Freq and Freq Week 07 report
March 18-29th La freq Week and Freq Week 07: Building upon last year’s unequivocal success, frequency TSJ and Baldface opted to add a ladies-only event (La Freq Week), as well as doing a two-session co-ed Freq Week.
With ladies exiting the helicopter in yoga-bliss smiles and refreshed auras, after several days of powder, massage, wine tastings, yoga, and perfect tree runs with Barrett Christy, Megan Pischke, Jessie Lu and Baldface’s expert guides including the legendary John Bufferies, it was clear La Freq Week was good for all. Guests ranged from early 20’s to early 50’s with all women focused on supporting each other in learning to ride better and relax. Liz Randall from Spy, Katie from frequency TSJ, ladies subscriber winner Kahe Richardson, Susan Waite (pro rider Alexi Waite’s mother) and others enjoyed a first-ever all ladies cat at Baldface. The contrast with the standard Freq Week festivities was clear within in minutes upon touchdown at the heli-in Baldface Lodge, when the “blue fish” beers began flying. With the first several days blessed by classic spring pow, the infamous Boston Boys, along with a strong Mt. Baker contingent consisting of Baker icon Jason Bas, longtime photog Tony Welch, big winner Chad Perrin, as well as the frequency TSJ crew with Laing, Maxx, Wibby, JG, Jessie Lu and the Burton posse Liam, Dave Downing, Kier, Elena Height, Chris Owen, and assorted radsters including Superbig’s Kevin Walsh, subscriber Jason Burke, Marcel, Sean Genovese and his dad Don, and returning Freq Week patron Patrick Davis, all got down the business of some serious powder surfing. Kier, having flown in a heli and ridden a cat for the first time all at once, took a day to get used to the decidedly non-groomed conditions, but had it dialed quickly and a smile which led all to believe this won’t be his last cat trip. Although spring rains hit on the last night of this first session, many took to the surrounding areas with shovels and determination, crafting a solid quarterpipe, and jib course in front of the lodge. The sun came out, the snow softened, and a classic spring session was had. Highlights included MC Airwolf’s performance of “Crazy Train”, ending with a bart-top performance. Freq Week’s second session, shuttled in a new crew of guests including famed surfer and notable subscriber Gerry Lopez along with his son Alex and friends from Bend, OR. Snoqualmie Summit head and cool cat Krush Kulesza made it along with the second session’s subscriber-winner Tim Cooper from Vancouver, BC. and another round of shred vacationers including the much loved and admired Bob and Barb Rodger from Mission, BC, the Capozzis, Ryan and Rebecca, and many others. With corn conditions ruling the Koot’ Range, drivers Jamie, Kord, and even the man Jeff Pensiero himself, all jumped to along with visiting HCSC summer camp groomer James Jackson to create Superfreq 07, a stunning mini-park featuring a step-down, table-top and QP at the bottom, all meandering between our private chalets at 2,000+ meters. With a cat-in barbeque in the bowl above for the freeriders, and amazing session below featuring two generations of Lopez’s boosting the park, Freq Week was declared another complete and total victory. Highlights included MC MIT belting out his own “Crazy Train”. Something about Ozzy makes people jump up on the bar. A big, big thanks to all the amazing staff at Baldface including Mish, Tess, Lanny, Navine, Yuska, Heath, Dem, and especially to Jeff and Paula P. for helping make this happen again. Viva Elmer. Watch for details here soon and at www.baldface.net for info on next year’s event. Subscribers are automatically entered to win a trip for Freq Week 08 and also get first crack at reserving spots, so join the frequency TSJ family today. Special thanks to Liam and Burton Check out some pictures from the week. Above Photos: Tony Welch L. Airwolf R. Elana Height posted by: Jeff Galbraith / added: 4.4.2007 / Comments (4) The Legendary Banked Slalom
Mt. Baker, WA – With conditions varying from Bear Mountain to classic Cascadia, the 22nd running of the Legendary Banked Slalom was highlighted by the victories of both a veteran competitor and the opening salvo of a local prodigy. (Additionally the event was equally highlighted with a unique “overpass-corkscrew” turn integrated into the final pitch above the Toilet Bowl turn. Envision a frozen hotwheels track leave it to the Howats to keep this grande dame fresh)
With Whistler resident Maelle Ricker’s first LBS Women’s Pro, she added the duct tape and a Scott Rowley custom surf shape to her existing pile of hardware (including X Games Boardcross wins and a fourth place halfpipe finish at the 2002 Turino Games). And with 18-year old lifetime Glacier local Lucas Debari’s victory in the Men’s dept, came the localest of pro champions since Temple Cummins or even Craig Kelly himself. With Terje (who finished seventh) noting in the parking lot, moments before he lit out for an Oslo flight (and the impending birth of his third child), “Lucas had a smoking run I think he took it”. The Viking’s predictions came true with the White Salmon Lodge erupting over Lucas’s win. No doubt Milano’s went off hard until well into the night. Congrats to both Lucas and Maelle. left P. Joe Briggs R. Lucas Debari right P. Greg Miller R. TRice posted by: Galbraith / added: 2.16.2007 / Comments (2) La Freq Week
The first ever La Freq Week went down at Baldface with smiles all around. Check out some of the pics and look for more to come. View article / posted by: jessielu / added: 3.28.2007 / Comments (8) MamaFest 2007
The morning of daylight savings is a doozie of a time to hold a slopestyle competition, but add in warm weather and torrential downpours, a dearth of organic coffee at Starbucks, and a late night the night before, and you can understand my reticence to attend Mamafest at The Summit at Snoqualmie this weekend. Luckily, what began as a most difficult day turned into a fantastic event for snowboarders and skiers alike, all while raising money to support breast cancer research and educating people about the importance of regular breast self-exams.
The local heavyhitters were in full force, participating in the slopestyle event as well as holding down the tents, getting kids excited to try out the new 2008 snowboard gear. Among those in attendance were Danielle Hambleton of K2 Snowboarding, Andy Heinzle and Kyle Phillips from Roxy and Mervin Manufacturing, Jason from Salomon Snowboards (spotted doing some stylish one-legged bonks over an upturned garbage can), Austin Hironaka, Shane Flood, and many more. Despite the early rains, the skies parted for a few hours in the early afternoon, giving respite to those sporting plastic garbage bags and marking the beginning of a heated rail and garbage can bonk session near the main lift entrance. Riders were treated to an afternoon performance from local hip hop artist Macklemore, and scurried to buy lottery tickets in hopes of being the lucky recipient of a cornucopia of possible prizes from supporting companies. Thanks Mamafest attendees for making this year's the largest and most successful one ever! View article / posted by: Michelle Massey / added: 3.12.2007 / Comments (1) The Holy Oly Revival
With “storm of the year” snowfall hitting all the resorts in the North West it was no arm twister to have the freq staffers make the trip down south to The Summit at Snoqualmie to view The Holy Oly Revival -- what many contest attendees were claiming to be the top spectator event in the PNW. Mad rock promoter Krush Kulesza and his crew erected a huge and well-maintained quarterpipe. Pretty impressive considering the resort was sitting on two feet of (lighter than normal) powder. A new addition ( or requisition) to this year’s festivities was a large propane tank still emitting fumes that Genovese, Donkie, Burtner and the others sessioned with abondon).
The contest is billed as a NW pride event and the area’s attendant top guns came out in full force to hit the monstrous sized QP. DJ James Lynn kept the crowd and athletes moving with his mix of hard rock and 80’s power ballads. The award show featured many drink tickets flying through the air and One Ball Jay wax discs being tossed Chinese throwing-star style, almost knocking out more than one onlooker. With Sammy Luebke walking away with a palette of Olympia Beer: 60 cases! As the award show (beer fest) toned down the crowd stumbled over the Timberwolf Lodge for a frequency TSJ-sponsored spaghetti feed and memorable Scott Sullivan performance. Thanks Krush and Lib . posted by: Wibby / added: 2.26.2007 / Comments (0) The Legendary frequency TSJ LBS party
Mt. Baker, WA – frequency TSJ’s 2nd annual Legendary LBS Freq Party brought to the fine community of Maple Falls, WA by K2 Snowboards, Café Ju Juana Mexicana, and frequency TSJ, continued the tradition of margaritas, macrobrews and DJ Pat A’s fine, fine sounds. With noted appearances by Shaun McKay, Tex Devenport, Lucas Debari, Shawn Farmer, Guy Deschenes, Natasha Zurek, Sean Genovese, Jesse Huffman, Patrick McCarthy, Victoria Jealouse, Nathan Yant, Donkey, and many other heads who refused to be intimidated by the continued and un-American abuse of Fourth Amendment rights up the road in Glacier. While rumors--(later substantiated) of seven of Whatcom County and the State of Washington’s finest (plus a few of their Belgian Shephards) actually handing out jay-walking tickets to those hapless pedestrians along the 542 highway trying to stay off the roads both literally and figuratively--plagued the community the entire weekend, frequency TSJ fought back and packed Kelly Jo’s house once again.
And although many a racer blamed their slowed performance on wax jobs with the following day’s warming, the margarita factor can’t be ignored. Vivas Las LBS. posted by: Galbraith / added: 2.12.2007 / Comments (0) frequency TSJ Adopt-a-Hwy pickup
Mt Baker, WA– After months of finding damn near anything else to do, the frequency TSJ staff finally bucked up and dragged ourselves up Mt. Baker’s famed highway 542 to attack our adopt-a-highway section—conveniently located from the North Fork Beer Shrine and Pizzeria to the Kendall cutoff. An anthropological study in human behavior among the “don’t tread on me” set, a high proportion of plastic soda bottles, half-rotted packs of Marlboro reds, fast-food wrappers and only one lone crack pipe ruled the day. Do-gooders included Maxx Von Marbod, Matt Wibby, John Laing, Jeff Galbraith, and volunteers Heidi Ring and Cheral. What had been a much-dreaded task turned into a sunny afternoon of leisurely strolling, petting horses, and finally beers and pizza.
While the honking support of our friends on the way to the mountain echoed every few minutes, all pushed on, finishing the task in just over a couple hours, much to the betterment of the this section of Whatcom County. Until next time put your trash in its proper place—which is not Kendall Creek, and consider adopting your own section of local mountain highway. posted by: Galbraith / added: 2.8.2007 / Comments (0) Ride's Dilated Art Party
This past Friday evening Ride Snowboards held its annual "Snowboard Art Party" at The War Room in Seattle. With over 200 submissions from around the globe, the judging wasn't easy. As graphics guru Mark Fankhauser put it, "The most unlikely graphics were selected and the voting was all over the map!", a true testament to the high caliber of this years crop of artists.
The top 30 were featured at a standing-room-only show while DJ Babu of "Dilated Peoples" kept the party movin' and shakin'. Art ranged from abstract and clip-art styles, political statements, to pop-art and bright illustrations. Most of what was shown could have been used on any contemporary board and it wouldn't be surprising to see some of these artists' work commissioned in the near future. Ride may have even cultivated a new generation of graphic designers from the mix of graphics shown. By all accounts the party was a huge success. The Best of Show was Alex Carrasco Gavilán from Bacelona, Spain who won $1000 and a Limited Edition Ride Snowboard featuring his winning artwork titled, "Ride Research".(pictured) A big thanks goes out to Ride Snowboards for the invite and VIP treatment. Hope you guys find some homes for these fine graphics in the future! posted by: Maxx / added: 2.7.2007 / Comments (0) 5.4 Photobook – Hardbound edition release party
Bellingham, WA – Apologies for the delayed update, but we’ve all been recovering from this event, and shipping the mad orders for the new hardbound edition (already almost sold out). Ah Christmas…
At any rate, the release of frequency TSJ’s #5.4 Photobook, and especially the first-ever limited edition hardbound volume, was cause for much, much celebration. Starting with the staff’s private holiday event with Jessie Lu, Katie, Maxx, Wibby, Laing, JG, and guests Justin Hostynek, Cole Barash and Jake Blauvelt arriving for sushi, sake and stoke. Later the crew moved down the street to the iconic Green Frog Café/Acoustic Tavern for both micro and macro treats. With an all-star attendance including: Colin Langlois, Patrick McCarthy, Mark Landvik, Mike Yoshida, Tarek Husevold, Ahmon Stamps, and Think Thank's Gary Milton, and a stellar surf rock set by The All-Nighters (the alter ego of local speed metal deities Full Frontal Assault). Between full pours of strong IPAs, all in attendance gawked at snowboarding’s first-ever hardbound periodical and swatted barflies and spilled beer away from their white-glove prize. While nearly all copies of this hardbound edition are sold out, a small supply remains available through the holidays. Get it today, and thanks to all who came out and made our #5.4 release event an evening to (kind of) remember. posted by: Jeff Galbraith / added: 12.21.2006 / Comments (3) Opening weekend at The Summit!
Saturday November 26, 2006. Due to a post turkey day hangover my friend Katie and I roll into Summit-at-Snoqualmie around 10:30am. Not deterred by the fact it was a holiday opening weekend, we dealt with the Costco style parking and managed to find a spot. Looking out the window at the Pacific Crest chairlift, I witnessed a line resembling that of one when Star Wars was released. Usually I’d be swearing at lines like these but all that could come out of my mouth were phrases like, “mmm that’s sexy” or “mmm ya that’s hot”. My excitement to ride Snoqualmie was hard to contain, especially after spending the last year lost at Mt.Baker. Snoqualmie is like my twin sisters eyes, I know every hill like it is my own.
As the day began to wan we ran into good friends Shane and Josh. After a few runs through the rollers off of Dodge, we went to Wildside, where Shane spoke of a small jump. Armed with my Polaroid, I set up next to the jump, which appeared to have an ice/rock landing. Shane and Josh both successfully landed on the ice/rock landing. We all decided to call it a day. Nothing could have ruined that day, I was home again. Thanks Summit-at-Snoqualmie for the best Turkey Day weekend ever.
posted by: Katie / added: 12.1.2006 / Comments (0) Screw El Nino
Growing up in Washington State, I have grown accustomed to expecting huge snow storms, but this recent weather pattern that has hit our neck of the woods is seriously out of control. Twelve feet of snow has fallen on the North Cascades in one storm, for all you math dorks out there that is 144in. -- or for our friends to the north that is over 365cm. To put it into perspective, Mt. Baker already has half of the base they received during their world record year of 98 and the resort has just been open a couple of weeks. Make your vacation plans now Santa got here early.
posted by: Wibby / added: 11.30.2006 / Comments (2) Opening Day: Whistler, BC
Reports began coming in from friends and the web that Whistler Mountain was opening a week early and after summer spent scratching a couple days at Hood, and requisite Mt. Baker pond skimming, this was not to be missed. With warming temps plaguing the few open Washington resorts, the decision was easy. Packing my bags, I made a few phone calls, blew off my previous plans and left B-ham way to early in the morning and arrived at Whistler hours before the lifts opened. Better than hours after. The snow was deep, light and plentiful. Dodging the mild lift lines was accomplished via uploading at the gondola mid-station: I was able to ride virtually all day without standing in any lines. Not bad for an opener anywhere, let alone the site of the next Winter Olympics. The whole resort had solid coverage and even afforded super long burn out pow runs all the way down to base. Pretty damn good for a Nov 18th day one.
The Blackcomb side of the resort opens on the 23rd and if the extended forecast turns out anything like its supposed to, its going to be a powder week in the BC mountains. Wax up those sticks and grab your snorkel. posted by: Wibby / added: 11.20.2006 / Comments (0) It's hard to be humble when you're hardbound
Dear friends of frequency TSJ,
First, thank you for your continued stoke. frequency TSJ is a reader-supported community of devoted riders, and our readers are our lifeblood. You rule. To celebrate the completion of our first five years of publishing frequency TSJ, we are pleased to offer our first-ever hardbound issue. This forthcoming issue, The Photobook, proved one of our all-time most popular last season, and we are making this year's edition available both in the regular format, and in a limited hardbound format. Again, thanks for your support. You are frequency TSJ. posted by: Galbraith / added: 11.8.2006 / Comments (1) Snowed in goes off!
Seattle, WA: This past Friday night Boise’s alt-rock legends Built To Spill packed the Pyramid Ale House in Seattle. The big shindig, dubbed "Get Snowed In,” produced a snow-dance of monumental proportions, and subsequently helping produce the massive amounts of snowfall recorded over the weekend. The result: Crystal Mountain and Mt. Baker both announced early openings (Wed for Crystal, Thurs for Baker) Thanks to Pyramid's Snow Cap ale, most of the sold-out crowd was whipped into a frenzy by the time Doug Martsch and Co. took the stage. This show brought shred and music fans together in support of good beer, great music, and a fantastic storm system. Co-sposnors included The Surfrider Foundation, The K2 Snowboarding, POW Gloves, The Summit at Snoqualmie, Crystal Mountain, Snowboard Connection, One Mountain Clothing, Casual Industries, and 107.7 the End. Prizes were tossed to the masses, kegs were killed, and shakas were tossed about. Snowboarding celebs like Eric Leines, Nathan Yant, and Monty Hayes were spotted giving it up to the snow gods. Whatever they're putting in that beer, it produced seriously funny feelings of winter euphoria. Another round please.posted by: Maxx / added: 11.13.2006 / Comments (0) Spacecraft's Bunny Gallery
Both the freqs and the rabbits come out at night. On Thursday November 3, The Snowboard Connection hosted the release of Spacecraft Clothing's latest works of art. “Rabbit Lore” was the theme and bunnys of all manner filled the skateshop-turned-art-gallery. Stuffed bunnies, wooden bunny totems, and even several fabeled jack-a-lopes were spotted lurking amongst the art which has hyped Spacecraft from Ballard to Bali. A big thanks to Stephan, Sarah, and the rest of the Cultural Mythologists for a totally awesome show. Totally. Look for Spacecraft’s newest custom sticker sheets at your favorite snow, skate, and surf shops this fall! posted by: Maxx / added: 11.3.2006 / Comments (0) Mt. Baker Film Festival sells out!
Thursday, October 26th: Winter has been cleared for liftoff! With the opening scenes of the Annual Mt. Baker Film Festival's first offering, winter officially began and the Mt. Baker Theater's sold-out crowd of 2,000 went berserk. The year’s festival featured works from local as well as legendary filmers. Standouts included Teton Gravity Research,Think Thank Films,One Ball Jay, and Volcom. During Volcom's Escramble, When the lift started and the music kicked in the crowd absolutely roared! If you haven’t yet seen this year's videos get out down to your retialer, grab a couple, run home, put on your shred gear, and jib the furniture. Bomb Drops off the back deck? It can be done. 50/50's down the stairwell? Now that's urban jibbing.
Afterward the real party got going at the Wild Buffalo which included a slideshow from local photgos Grant Gunderson, Mike Stamm, Josh Thompson, and Mike Yoshida and others. Dancing and general mayhem ensued Gunderson lost his cell phone and ended upon the floor, and, as one bystander put, ”All I know is those Howat girls can really shake it!” Huge thanks to Mt. Baker Ski and Snowboard Area for a proper winter kickoff.posted by: Maxx / added: 10.31.2006 / Comments (4) PDX Halloween Costume Bash
When Danielle Hambleton over at K2 Snowboards sent an invite to a seafaring costume party in Portland, it was hard to tell what to expect, but since the Vashon/Georgetown party posse knows how to throw down, I put together a last minute costume, found a place to crash and made the five-hr drive south to PDX.
Arriving at the waterfront, it was hard not to be blown away by the number of people in sweet costumes waiting to board the USS Portland Spirit. After fighting through the masses, we boarded the ship and the night was on. Meeting up with the K2 crew of Danielle, Cory, Jessie, Amy, Cami, Lance, Dan and of course Tara Miller of Ride Snowboards, we took turns on cocktail detail, watched people fall down, met crazy Ausies, judged costumes (socially) and made some time on the dance floor. Here’s a tip for everyone planning out costumes: hats make great drink-smuggling vessels. After departing the boat, we flagged down a SUV stretch limo and cruised the town VIP style, eventually ending up at some techno Russian mafia bar that was apparently open ‘til way too late in the morning. Met up with artist/shred-dog Corey Smith and reveled until it was definitely time to go home. Truly a memorable night and the best consume party in years. Thanks K2, Spy Optics, Salomon and US Outdoor. posted by: Wibby / added: 10.30.2006 / Comments (1) frequency/ThinkThank in the drinktank!
Recently, The editorial staff at frequency: The Snowboarder's Journal hosted a "meeting of the minds", of sorts, along with video podcast partners and good friends Think Thank Productions. In attendance were editorial, photo, sales, design, and warehouse staff along with several pro-shreds and subscribers who lent considerable feedback along with mind-numbing dance moves. When this many freq's get together, the beserking sets in. The who’s-who guest list included Pat McCarthy, Mark Landvik, Mike Yoshida, Matt Edgars, Sean Genovese, Jesse and Christina Burtner, along with subscribers Ben, Cory, Tasha, Christina, Jason, and Tracy (last names have been withheld to protect the innocent). Special thanks to Think Thank Productions for the VIP-style screening of their latest film, "Patchwork Patterns" at the Western Washington University VU room, before retreating to the Che Guevara-inspired interiors of The Calaloo. And special thanks to the Outdoors Center for paying our exhorbitant parking fines. All in attendance would agree that frequency TSJ's recent "editorial meeting" was a marked success -- if you judge success by hazy tales, creative ideas hatched, Mojito's consumed, contortionist dance moves performed, and the exceedingly late Saturday “morning” that ensued -- certainly we are on our way to greatness. A big thanks to everyone who made it out, your stoke is vital to frequency TSJ and we're proud to call you friends. When's the next conference?posted by: Maxx / added: 10.26.2006 / Comments (0) DWD has a new site
The new Dinosaurs Will Die site is live on the net. posted by: Wibby / added: 10.23.2006 / Comments (0) Capita's "Shredflick Overload 2006" goes Metal
Capita isn't known for doing things the way others do. From their graphics, team, board shapes, and overall image, Capita has built a reputation for the unorthodox. In keeping with this philosophy, Capita threw an unforgettable party at Neomo's in Seattle on none other than Friday the 13th. The night featured four independant snowboarding films showcasing snowboarding and the lives of some of the most prolific riders of our time. Travis Parker's "Bikecar" and Lukas Huffman's "Ir77" which document more than just great riding, but great rider's off-hill endeavors were shown alongside of Whiteout films' "Wear it Well", and Sandbox productions' "Flavor Country" . Most people would scoff at showing 4 movies in one night. Not so with Mr. Blue Montgomery who chose to round out the event card with the hardest hitting metal act to hit Seattle since the "Monster's of Rock" show at the Kingdome in 1986. Early Man exploded on the stage with over an hour of power chords, flying hair, and pure-unfiltered rock. Thanks to several donated 10 foot stacks of Marshalls, everyones eardrums were left ringing louder than the late-bell you heard in junior hough.
In attendance were the majority of the Capita Pro and Am-teams. TJ Schneider was found holding a video camera to document the debauchery, while Cory Smith just tried to hide from fanatical shredders of both sexes. Up-and-comers Dustin Craven, Scott Shaw, and Dan Breisse showed the Seattle scene that you don't have to be from the NW to drink cheap beer and party like a rock star. Look for these guys to throw down some amazing shred skills in the coming years. Eddie Lee had the Etnies and Thirty-two bus double parked out front with untold malt beverages consumed inside. Matt Sickles from Ride and Randy Torcom of Dakine were in attendance to support the cause and rack up the bar tab as well. Rumors were confirmed on stage that legendary pro Jeff Brushie was even in the house. A big thanks to Blue and the whole C3 (Capita, Coal, Union, Deeluxe, GMC/Defcon) crew for a kick-ass night. Other shout outs to Snowboard Connection, Dakine, The Summit at Snoqualmie, Airblaster, and Oakley for sponsoring the event. Support the brands that support heavy metal and independent Snowboard films. Left: Throwing the Horns Right: Pat McCarthy and John Logic posted by: Maxx Von Marbod / added: 10.16.2006 / Comments (1) Absinthe Films “More” premier and Scott Sullivan performance
This time of year gets me amped to ride. The air is getting colder, leaves are turning color, days are getting shorter and shred movie premiers are in full effect. I wait with anticipation like a ten year-old at Christmas. This was the first season after many, where I have not ruined the surprise by seeing every new snowboard film at ASR, where I’d seen the teaser for Absinthe Films new project, titled “More” and I was blown away. I almost went to the regular world premier at the La Paloma theatre in Encinitas, but I held off as I saw that the tour was coming through my home town of Bellingham, WA - AKA Mt Baker AKA the Venice Beach of snowboarding. I was pumped.
click on 'view article' to read the rest of the story. View article / posted by: Chad Perrin Aka: The Falken / added: 10.6.2006 / Comments (0) Premiere Season Part Duex "Patchwork Patterns": The Endless High Five...
The Seattle snowboard video premier tour continues with Think Thank's "Patchwork Pattern's" at the Evo space in Seattle's Fremont District last Sat night. Known more as the "center of the Universe" for naked bicyclists, Vladmir Lenin sculptures, and yuppie exercise centers -- Fremont rocked this night with a packed house with attending athletes including Patrick McCarthy, Mark Landvik, Sean Genovese, Jesse Burtner, Tarek Husevold, Lucas Debari, Nathan Lind, Donnkie, John Laing, Jeff Keenan, Gus Engle and Danielle Hambleton from K2, Peter Saari from Lib_tech, filmer extrodanaire Nathan Yant, Ride's Tara Miller, Evo proprietor and K2 two-plank phenom Bryce Phillips, Sara, Ryan and Stephan from Spacecraft, Sno Conn's John Logic, Snoqualmie Pass's rock promoter Krush Kulesza, Ride team head Matt Sickles, and the frequency TSJ crew. This was a multi-event evening that included the release of Spacecraft's All-Star sticker pack, featuring many top shred friends of SpaceCraft. K2's new team photog Mike Yoshida had a gallery on display and Christina Burtner was showcasing an impressive painting that she finished hours before the doors opened. Think Thank soundtrack musician Robbie Gonzalez kept the crowd alert with his percussive assault.
A great turn-out filled the venue and then some. And, in a very non-typical premier move, drinks were free. Yes, free. Jesse Burtner and Evo prove they clearly know how to rock the house. Add Patchwork Patterns to your Shopping Cart and view what many are calling the most progressive video of the season. posted by: Wibby / added: 10.2.2006 / Comments (0) High fives and over-priced drinks
Nearly a sold-out crowd filled the Showbox in downtown Seattle for the first big kick-off to the upcoming shred season. Mack Dawg Productions held the NW premier for their two shred videos “Follow Me Around” and “People” both of these flicks were super sick and should be on anybody’s must-see list this winter. Many of the athletes were present with autographs being signed on everything from posters to fl |