It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that I write to inform all of you that Jim Boan of Atlanta darts passed away Dec. 23 of a sudden and massive heart attack.  Words can't describe what all this man has done over the years for darts in America.  I can't think of another individual who, without competing, has done more for darts at so many events across the country.

Jim was one of the best custom dart makers in the country and was quick and efficient at repairing or upgrading existing darts as well.  I sure many of you have met him over the years at many events across the country.

This is a sad day for the Darts community.  At this special time of year, please keep Jim's family in your thoughts and prayers.  Also, remember how special the ones close to you are, and that you may not get a chance to tell them how you feel.

Take care all.  I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.

Shane McCaslin

     I was watching the Desert Classic yesterday online (since they won't televise it live in the U.S.--- That's a rant for another blog) and I noticed something; heck, even the commentators mentioned it.  The crowd was so quiet.  It was almost as if the place was empty, but looking behind the players, the place looked pretty packed.  At first I thought it may have been due to no american on stage at the time, and perhaps some of the people there weren't familiar with these two players.  Finally, in the last match of the day, Darrin Young gets to the stage.  I'm hoping that finally the crowd will get into it, but they're silent as ever. 

    In a way the silence is a good thing.  It's less distraction for the players.  But I also feel like it's a let down to them.  During the days matches, there were several 180's and a bunch of amazing out shots.  Most of the amazing shots got standing ovations and a few hoops and whistles, but it seemed so weak and far from being loud or even a majority of the audience. 

    Darts isn't golf or tennis.  The thing that makes it exciting sometimes is the roar of the crowd in the background between throws.  Often the camera will run through the crowd between matches and throws showing the crowd with their signs and wild flags, hats and shirts.  Not once did I see this happen yesterday.  Mostly because there wasn't much to see.  A few times they showed some groups with flags and everyone had signs but little was shown of it.  Only during interviews near the crowd did the crowd even seem really into it.  And then all they were doing was waving their signs wildly in the background while the player was interviewed.

   Come on America!  If we want to be taken seriously in the world of darts, then we have to stop taking the world of darts so seriously!  Relax, have fun, cheer loud, wear a silly hat, wave a flag.  Besides, you don't have to worry about anyone seeing you around here.  They still aren't televising it here.