1-1-10 As We Proceed. . .

1-1-10 As We Proceed. . . Questions have been raised, comments have been made, but what is DPM doing in the coming year? How are we keeping things fresh? Whose buttons are we going to push in 2010? Are the videos we have now going to stay there?

We decided to open the bag of worms and share some...just some of the details of what is in store in 2010.

First off, beginning with Issue 8 (Dec 15^th-Feb 14^th) DPM will begin print distribution to the following countries: Japan, Spain, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden, France, Italy, Finland, Poland, and Norway which will effectively make DPM the most widely distributed climbing publication in the world.

The expanded print distribution coincides with the launch of our new and improved website (launching Jan 1st). The expansion of our site will incorporate some innovative ideas including allowing selected bloggers to make money on the DPM site through the sale of ad space.

Is there more? Actually, yes! DPM will be joining forces with Earth Treks Climbing Gym to bring what many feel will be the largest competition ever held on US soil. Stay tuned for details.

Also on the east coast, the Philly Rock Gym, led by Dave Rowland, is launching a junior competition with an innovative twist. The Junior Bouldering Invitational will be a redpoint format with finals run in World Cup style. Instead of participation ribbons given to athletes, this competition is offering climbing scholarships and large prize packages. It is about time junior competitions stepped it up a notch and this event is turning up the volume. This is a great start in a positive direction in terms of youth competition which also includes a Pancake breakfast, a vendor fare, and a youth after party. Where is the industry on this one?

Speaking of crazy comps... The Boston Rock Gym is getting ready to host the second Heart of Steel Competition on Jan. 30th where the cash money is right on the wall for competitors to grab.

Right now, the staffers at DPM are busy building a poker table. As part of our commitment to the industry, DPM formulated a plan to help raise money for the Access Fund. As climbers get younger, so does their commitment to our community. They need to remember that crags only stay open through the efforts like the Access Fund and other grassroot organizations. Capatizing on the poplarity of online poker and televised poker events, DPM formulated a fund raising idea. At the 2010, New River Rendezvous, DPM will host the first ever Poker in the Access Tournament, a poker event with 100% of all the proceeds going directly to the Access Fund. All participants must be Access Fund Members. More details coming soon.

So, that is what we are sharing for now. Check out the next issue of DPM to find out how you can win thousands in cash in the coming year form Dead Point. We might throw out some shwag too.