I have no interest in engaging in he said, she said nonsense.  I posted the facts of our trip and our experience, as they occurred, in an attempt to assist fellow members.  These facts are not at all in dispute,  Call NCCO at 1-800-552-5581, and talk to John.  He will tell you the same story.  He agreed to three things as I left him on Saturday, July 4th:  First, he agreed to examine the way he ran his business;  to take a vested interest in how completely and accurately trips leaving NCCO were packed.  Secondly, he agreed to my premise that he and his staff should strive to treat their customers like family.  They should be spoken to and respected in the same manner as they would demand for themselves.  Lastly, he offered to reimburse my team because "he had let us down".  He handed me $1000.00 in cash.  If there is another "side" to this story, it will be the first I am hearing of it.

My original post was made, not because there were "minor" or "common" problems with my outfitter.  The events were posted because they were, in fact, so strange and unbelievable.  I wish no harm to John Schiefelbein.  I am simply interested in preventing him from harming any of his clients.  As his business is currently run, greater problems than my team experienced are definitely possible.  If he outfits your trip, insist that all gear be inventoried in front of you.  Also take unconfirmed reports of route disruptions with a grain of salt.  I am looking to help everyone, not harm anyone.