i just saw the REI banner somewhere in the site. i assume they are a sponsor
at this point?

at any case, i'm putting a plug for them, for good reason.

they are the official supllier for Boy Scouts Troop 301 in LA County.
this month, 68 Scouts strong. A small army of sorts. The Troop does about
10 campouts per year, numerous 11+ mile hikes - in other words, active.

the REI return policy is beyond belief and the quality of their products is
awesome.

oh, everyone they hire, has to know what they are doing.
CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT ?