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It is 2011. Do you know where your marketing plan is? Here are 30 questions to ask yourself as you mull over the process of drafting or modifying your marketing plan.
This isn't one of those posts you can blast through in sixty seconds. This requires a cup of coffee (or a cocktail), a moleskine notebook, and a lot of careful, thorough deep thinking. Let's get started:
1. What are you really selling? Can you articulate simply – and exactly – what you sell? Or do you offer too much stuff? Does your market know what you sell? Does your market need what you sell? Is it obvious to the people who might buy from you? I mean OBVIOUS? Don't EVER assume that your market knows exactly what you do, and how you can help them. They don't lay awake at night wondering how to buy from you…
2. Have you solved your prospecting problem? Who are you selling to? Do you really know? Or are you just casting a large net hoping to snag a few hopefuls?
Is your marketing effort making it easy to capture new prospects? Is it easy for them to take action to inform you they are interested? Or have you neglected to really think carefully about how you identify — and capture — your business prospects?
And are you finding enough prospects to ultimately meet your profit goals?
3. What is your market niche? Yesterday, I asked if you are getting enough prospects to run a profitable business. The more important question is "are you getting enough QUALIFIED prospects?" If you are not, you might need to narrow your market niche. (And yes, narrowing your niche will provide MORE prospects…)
Classic case of the auto mechanic asking for referrals from anyone you know who owns a car… This is too broad, there is no way to help this guy. But if he asks for names of Jaguar owners to reach out to, this request is much easier to handle, and you probably know a few of those…
4. Is Your Sales Process Nailed Down Tight? Hopefully you're thinking through how to solve your prospecting problem, and can find enough qualified prospects. But can you close 'em?
If your sales process sucks, it will just suck faster if you simply feed more prospects into it.
How do you track and monitor your prospects? How do you communicate value? How do you answer objections? How do you foster trust and grow the opportunity in your sales incubator? How do you move them to make the final buying decision?
5. What Is Your Marketing Story? So, what do you do? How do you help people? What makes you different? Why are you memorable? Is your story transferable…meaning is it easy for others to share your story with others?
And do you have one simple story/message? Instead of multiple, conflicting, confusing stories that result in the market place not really sure what it is that you do?
6. Do you have an actual strategy behind all your marketing tactics? We've talked about what you sell, how you sell, to whom you sell, and what story you tell when you are selling. Now, how do you deliver that message? What tactics are you employing to deliver that message? Social media? Direct mail? Email marketing? Networking? Advertising? Trade shows?
Do you chase the latest shiny "tactical" object? Or do you know what message delivery vehicle works? Is there an actual strategy behind what you do? Or do you throw the proverbial spaghetti against the wall?
7. Is Social Media Right For You? The answer is yes.
Problem is, most people don't do it right.
They blast messaging one-way. They don't engage. They don't build relationships. They don't educate. And most importantly, most don't give the process time to take root, and give up before the time investment bears fruit.
Have you identified where your prospects/referral sources are spending time (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter)? Have you grasped the concept of using the tools to make meaningful connections? Are you helping others?
8. Is Blogging Right For You? I have yet to find an organization that couldn't benefit from blogging. None. But I am becoming more careful in recommending it to people, because most people I know aren't good bloggers.
Blogging is necessary because it educates your market, demonstrates skill and knowledge, strengthens SEO for your online presence, and is a great sales tool.
But most people fail because they struggle to generate meaningful content, and quit after not closing a big deal even though they published two whole posts… [sarcasm intended] In other words, they quit too soon.
9. Is Your Website Converting? You blog. You've invested in fancy schmancy design. You try to focus on keywords. You try your hand at – or invest in – search engine optimization…
And you don't get many website conversations – which means people aren't taking the action on the website you want (not signing up for newsletters, not buying products or your services, not subscribing to your RSS feeds…
Are you doing enough to focus on why? What can you change? Is it too hard for the visitor to do? Is your content not compelling? Do you plan to figure it out?
10. Is Your Collateral Working For You? You have tri-fold brochures. Various sell sheets on products and services. Rack cards. Company calendars. Business cards.
But is any of this stuff really working for you? I mean, can't most business prospects get what they need from your website and/or social web presence? Do you really need to spend the money on this print stuff?
That's what you need to find out. Maybe your target market NEEDS printed material. But you've got to know…
And how important is design? Are using Word templates and printing at home hurting your business?
11. What is your networking strategy? How significant a role does networking play in your prospecting efforts? Attend too many events? Attend too few events? Attend all the wrong events? Go to the same groups week after week, seeing the same people?
Are you going to events that are populated with your actual target market? And how effective is your follow-up strategy?
And how do you see social media playing a role in your online networking? Are you employing the same "networking" tactics on Twitter? Facebook? LinkedIn?
12. Will geolocation move the needle? Do geolocation applications like Foursquare and Gowalla make sense for your business? To be honest, if you are a retail establishment, and you are not experimenting with these apps, then you are potentially missing a big opportunity…sort of the modern day loyalty card. And an OBVIOUS way to more deeply connect with real customers…
But what about B2B sales? What about large organizations? What about selling consulting services? Does it make sense for you?
Foursquare just passed 5 million users. Now while that doesn't compare to Twitter's 160 million or Facebook's 600 million, it is still worth reviewing.
13. Will QR codes matter? You might first ask, what the heck is a QR code?
Although these quick response codes have been around a while, they are only beginning to seep into daily conversation. You simply scan the code with some type of reader, usually on your smart phone. This present bits of information, which hopefully results in someone taking action.
How does this relate to you? You can place QR codes in magazine advertisements, on collateral, promotional items – the code could offer a specialized discount for the people who take the time to scan the code.
You've got to ask…is there a place for this unique message delivery method in my marketing?
14. Are hosting events worth your while? Is there marketing utility for you – or your company – to bring people together by hosting events? Should you create your own networking group? Should you organize large events around product launches or new service offerings? Can the effort increase your brand awareness?
Hosting an event gives you an easy excuse to reach out to people, provides content and story lines for your social web apps and website, and can give your PR a boost.
15. Is your bounce rate too high? Do you even know what the hell I am talking about?
A "bounce rate" is essentially the percentage of initial visitors to a site who "bounce" away to a different site, rather than continue on to other pages within the same site (Wikipedia).
In other words, you need to know what the bounce rate is for the common landing pages on your site. A landing page bounce rate over 50% is cause for concern. You want visitors to check out other pages.
E-commerce sites need LOW bounce rates. Blogs and other informational sites have higher bounce rates. You need to get a sense for what your industry standard is to measure and compare, so that you can make appropriate adjustments.
16. Is e-mail marketing working for you? If done right, e-mail marketing remains one of the most powerful ways to go to market…
Problem is, most of us are doing it wrong. Not a day passes that some organization sends me their e-newsletter…UNSOLICITED.
I wish people understood how poorly this reflects on their brand…
You really need to rethink how you build your lists. Don't buy them…and just because you met someone at a function and they give you a business card doesn't mean they want your newsletter.
And careful on your message. Make it unique – not just regurgitated blog posts. And it must provide value to people!
17. Is your SEO strategy working? Search engine optimization, the process of optimizing search results when people search certain keywords and phrases…in order that your content is more likely found on search engines like Google.
Is your strategy working? Do you have a strategy?
Are you optimizing your keywords? Do you know what your keywords are?
Is your SEO vendor producing results? Do you even need one?
Is your website properly optimized for search? Do you even know?
Are you tracking the numbers via Google Analytics? Do you know what those even mean?
Are you aware that this SEO "science" is constantly evolving?
18. Will cause marketing work for you? We admire people/organizations that go above and beyond to give back to the community.
I've always believed that "giving back" is good marketing. Our society allows us freedom to live the lives we want, to achieve the things we want. It certainly can strengthen your brand to align you and your company with causes and organizations doing good things for those in need, and making the community a better place.
Not to mention (selfishly), doing this will expose you and your brand to a whole new reach of people. Good networking!
What will you do?
19. Do you practice blazespotting? If you follow this blog, you've seen me write a lot about "shining a light." I am now in the process of evolving my thinking on this concept – and taking it to the next level. I now call it "Blazespotting."
I take it from trainspotting, which is defined as the hobby of watching trains and noting their serial numbers, usually for long periods of time. In our case, "Blaze" is defined as "flash of light."
Blazespotting – the hobby and discipline of watching people + organizations and noting/broadcasting their good works, usually for long periods of time.
Proactively showcasing the good works/good deeds/thought leadership/innovation of others reflects strongly on your own brand, builds trust with you, and strengthens your position in the marketplace.
The social web makes this process even easier. But it all comes down to making a conscious decision to showcase others!
20. Are you focused on your customer experience? Running a business, we are tasked with a lot of day-to-day responsibilities, but I sometimes wonder, do we focus too much on all but the one thing that truly matters…how our customer interacts with our business??
I recently wrote a post called 33 Questions To Ask Customers. The purpose here was to help us ask the right questions to better understand if we are providing a meaningful experience for our customers…
Are you doing enough of that? Do you understand how EVERY employee in your organization interacts with customers? Do you study how your customers interface with every facet of your business…from the telephone, to the website, to your twitter handle?
21. Is Your Company Culture Fostering Success?
Do you foster a work environment where people can be creative?
Do you empower your people to creatively solve customer problems?
Do you reward your people for making mistakes?
Do you encourage innovative thinking?
Do you waste their time in pointless meetings?
Do you encourage continuous learning?
Do you seek employee input on all things?
Do you engage them in discussions about the company culture too?
Do you make it clear that ALL employees are a part of the marketing team?
And do you recognize that you never stop improving these elements in your business?
22. Are you providing enough value to your readers? And by value, I mean more than just distributing good, helpful content, I also mean engaging with them too…
If all you are doing is broadcasting one-way messaging about how good you and your products are via email, blogging, social media, and print…then you are wasting my time and your prospects time.
You need to not only put out educational and engaging content that provides solutions to your audience – you need to connect with that audience and engage in conversation about these topics too…
Is your content conversational and helpful? Or are you just broadcasting and telling?
23. Do you do the little things? Like NOT charging me for air at the gas station…
Like bringing me a FULL, LARGE coffee to-go cup when I get my check…
These little gems happened to me…just in the last 24 hours… And the real power in them? Not expecting them…
And that's what you have to think about. Analyze all the little elements of how your customer interfaces with your business, and identify where you can implement little memorable gems.
Sometimes you just need to listen to your existing customers, because they will give you plenty of ideas if you let them…
And sometimes you need to empower your own employees to create their own little gems…let them create their own meaningful experiences… DON'T make them follow a strict script where little gems die in the ether…
24. Are you doing enough learning? Most people are not. And that is why they fail, or labor in a job they detest, or wonder why they have no creativity.
And it is your own fault.
Why aren't you focused on learning all that you can? Why don't you dedicate time to this process? Why aren't you encouraging your employees to keep learning, or at least providing them with material they can learn from?
I believe continuing education is the most important thing you can do to become better…
Better at life, better at creativity, better at marketing, better at business, etc…
Why aren't you living in bookstores, searching the internet, talking to mentors – to become better?
25. Does your workspace work? Is your working environment conducive to productive work? Creative work? Interruption-free work?
I am amazed at how many people are forced to work (or try to work) in places they HATE to be in. And you can imagine what that does for their work ethic, morale, and not to mention creativity!
You must create a workspace for yourself or your company that allows you – and your people – to be at their best. And the hard part? It is different for each employee.
Workspace design is something that is often overlooked, or designed in such a way to minimize office expenses, with NO consideration for the employees.
26. Is day-to-day admin dragging you down? If you are like me, you lose dramatic amounts of time fiddling with the day-to-day admin of your business. Invoicing, chasing down accounts receivable, inventory, paying bills, payroll, health insurance paperwork, etc.
Marketing, selling, and doing the creative work you are hired to do in the first place gets put aside because the "running the actual business" stuff gets in the way…
But yet, this is vital to the operation of the business, right?
Have you thought about adopting new processes? Thought about buying software that makes your life much easier? Or have you thought about biting the bullet and hiring professional help to get this work done?
It may be time to shake things up.
27. What are your revenue goals? Do you even know?
A lot of the small business people I speak with don't really know. Which boggles my mind. To be honest, without this goal, you CANNOT create a marketing plan. And without a marketing plan, you are far more likely to not have a good year with your business.
What are your revenue goals? Do you even know what you made in 2010? 2009? Are you growing? Are you declining? Are you all over the place?
Until you determine what your revenue goal is for 2011, you can't do a thing to draft a plan, or make proper strategic marketing and business decisions for the coming year…
28. Do you have cash flow? Unlike the last question (Day 27), you probably know the answer to this one. And yeah, you either have cash flow…or you do not.
You can't operate a business without it. You just can't. To put it simply, you need it to do stuff: Marketing. Prospecting. Equipment. Experimenting. Learning, etc.
Cash flow helps determine a company's value, liquidity, risk factors, and can judge past or future prospects of the business. But yet, most small business people don't think enough about it, or don't have any cash flow (however you define it, whatever your context).
At the end of the day, your cash flow must remain net positive for your business to remain solvent!
29. Do you have a big enough marketing budget? I think the answer is no, since most people tell me "I am marketing on a shoestring" or "Business has been slow, so I cut my marketing" or "How much did you say?"
So how in the hell are you going to build your business? Or get new members? Or get people to vote for you? Or get people to support your cause?
Follow along here: You need to make enough sales to meet your revenue goals. You sell to your prospects. You have to have enough prospects to close enough deals, assuming you won't close every opportunity. Thus, you need to spend enough on your marketing budget to talk to enough prospects.
I ask again: do you have a big enough marketing budget?
30. Have you created your seven-step marketing plan yet? So here we are on Day 30 of this marketing plan development post series. How is your progress coming along?
Your marketing plan should consist of basically seven components:
1. Understand market and competition – is there a need for what you sell?
2. Understand your customer – who are they, where are they, why will they buy, how do they buy?
3. Determine your precise target market / your niche. Where is your focus?
4. Develop your message. What's your story?
5. How will you deliver the message? Networking? Direct mail? Paid advertising? Social media? Blogging? Others?
6. Goals – How many prospects do you need to touch? What is your close rate? How many sales do you need to meet your financial goals?
7. How will you pay for it? Setting your marketing budget high enough to reach enough viable prospects…
Pretty simple, yeah? Don't over think your marketing plan. And the key to success? Process the plan in order from number one to seven. This is critical. One steps builds on the former…
What about you? Get started now.
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[cartoon by @gapingvoid]
Note: This article is based on a month long series of marketing plan posts that can be found here.


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Communication and Perception
It is not known to what extent sea turtles communicate with one another. They make grunting noises which can be heard by other turtles, and apparently use these vocalizations to locate each other. Visual cues are probably important in identifying other members of their species, and some tactile communication undoubtedly occurs during mating. However, the bulk of communication in this species remains undescribed. (Scholastic and Inc., 1998; Scholastic and Inc., 2001)

subset: commoncrawl


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What does Google Hotpot mean for other location businesses?
Yesterday, Google launched an early release of Google Hotpot - a location-based recommendation engine "powered by you and your friends". Several of the ideas we have advocated over the years are implemented in Hotpot (e.g.: quick in-place ratings; getting started by offering a selection of places to rate) and more are likely to come.
Google is moving fast into the location space, becoming more than just a simple search engine that filters data from third party services. With Hotpot, Google becomes a much more serious content creator contender as it makes it much easier for people to rate and review places. Most importantly, Google sees that delivering personalised recommendations will motivate users to contribute to Hotpot and add their friends. And soon Facebook will likely follow suit.
This a serious threat to local business review websites, checkin services and travel sites, which makes the adoption of personalised recommendations more important than ever. Maximising the value and uniqueness of your site content is becoming a must in order to compete with the likes of Google and Facebook. It is also key to increasing customer loyalty and brand recognition.
LikeCube works with all kinds of location related data, like ratings, reviews, bookings, checkins, and metadata about places. And we work out the best way of tailoring this data for your users. So if you feel you need an expert to get you to market now, contact us.


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Hot Avant Garde Pixie
Pixies are awesome especially when done right exploring different creative ways to make theirs different. Here we have an amazingly creative one leaving the bangs with longer layers of flashy yellow which just works so well with the dark reddish short pixie cut.
Royston Blythe Team


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blmeanie wrote:Vintage Clothes
That was me
Feet in the Clouds
if I could extend it for sure I'd say right behind those three:
House of Wax
The End of the End
Great 5 to listen to in a row.
nice call, your blueness. actually love your choices.
no wrong answers here, of course. but it does make me happy that a recent album is getting some attention here.


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Football, Flow, and Finding Your Way
After Tearing an Achilles Tendon
"It all starts with the flow. Throw in the performance aspect and that's when you really have something. Larry [Bird] played with passion, persistence, and purpose. There was meaning to his performances . . . Flow plus meaning equals performance."
—NBA Hall-of-Fame basketball player Bill Walton, on former teammate Larry Bird
Athletics and academia often seem like strange bedfellows, but School of Behavioral and Organizational Sciences' Positive Psychology student Damian Vaughn is fusing his love for both into a successful post-playing career after five seasons as a professional football player.
In 1994, Vaughn's collegiate football career began after an inauspicious start. He wasn't recruited out of high school, and was red-shirted as a freshman walk-on after trying out for the Miami University football team in 1993 so that his strength and speed could further develop. But when he took the field for the Redhawks' first home game that year, something strange and unexpected happened. The redshirt freshman tight end inexplicably felt more focused, more confident, and more energized than he ever had in his entire life. His nerves disappeared; he was tireless; he seemingly got open at will, caught every pass thrown to him, and could make every block. He could do no wrong.
"I thought, 'What the hell was that? Did I eat something?' I didn't know how I got to that place, but it felt like I couldn't expend the energy I had in my body. I wanted to re-experience it, so I began focusing on my game-day rituals," Vaughn said. "But it wasn't until my senior season that I began to sort of get it."
It was in his senior season that he discussed his on-the-field experiences with his godmother, a psychology professor in Brazil. She remarked that what he was feeling sounded similar to a then-relatively new psychological concept: flow. The concept was first identified by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, currently a distinguished professor of psychology and management at CGU, and popularized in his 1990 book, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. In Flow, Csikszentmihalyi describes it as being "the state in which people are so involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter; the experience itself is so enjoyable that people will do it even at great cost, for the sheer sake of doing it." When Vaughn read that he realized, "Oh my God, that's it!"
In college, Vaughn's enjoyment of football—playing for it the "sheer sake of doing it"—was a key factor in his success. He started every game during his four seasons for the Redhawks and was a first-team All-Mid Atlantic Conference selection his senior year. In the 1998 National Football League draft, he was selected in the seventh round by the Cincinnati Bengals, making him the first Brazilian player (he holds dual citizenship in the United States and Brazil) in NFL history.
While the life of a professional athlete is idealized by almost every amateur, Vaughn discovered that working in the NFL stifled much of the joy he had found on the football field in Ohio. And without that joy, his performance suffered.
"There is so much pressure and it's just so intense. I have never experienced anything close to the high amount of pressure that's in the NFL," Vaughn said. "You constantly feel like you've got to prove yourself. Get approval from peers and coaches. Half of the time you're telling yourself you don't belong there. Most of the guys in the NFL think that."
This anxiety is often the result of constant, high-stakes scrutiny, and can lead to unhealthy attitudes and decisions. Players battling injuries that would keep most bedridden still manage to suit up for games. They take medication that might mask the pain, but only delays recovery, risks further injury, and can lead to a dependency on painkillers. Additionally, with the players' livelihood dependent on performance—or more accurately, the perception of their performance—the game itself becomes less enjoyable and more about pleasing coaches, impressing peers, and proving yourself to fans.
"It takes you out of your game. All of a sudden you are dependent on others," Vaughn said.
Ultimately, Vaughn ended up playing two seasons with the Bengals, one with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and a final season with the Barcelona Dragons in NFL Europe. After tearing his Achilles tendon, he rehabbed for over a year but was unable to pass the physical exam that would allow him back on the field. Just like that, his playing career was over. And like so many athletes in NFL, he didn't have a fully developed game plan for life after football.
Though his interest in psychology was constantly stoked by his interest in flow and the various psychological methods to achieve peak performance, a career in that field didn't seem viable. Instead, he became an entrepreneur, founding businesses in America and Brazil that manufactured countertops and imported rare and exotic stone for commercial application. These ventures achieved revenues in the millions, but despite this success, his interests drifted back to football.
As someone who had successfully transitioned into a productive life after the NFL, retired players began approaching Vaughn for advice: "I became sort of a big brother. I had started some companies and players would ask how I did that; how I got into something entirely different than football, not just coaching."
Rather than teaching his former colleagues the nuts and bolts of business management, Vaughn passed on the real secret of his success: clarity, focus, and peace of mind. All of these are invaluable, if not necessary, assets in achieving success, be it running on a football field, or a small business. Vaughn found his help was in such demand that his time and interests began shifting from his businesses to helping retiring and, increasingly, current athletes. After two years of immersing himself in cognitive neuroscience and consciousness course work at the University of Arizona, he founded the Vaughn Center in 2009.
In its three years of operation, Vaughn's work through his center has focused almost entirely on helping athletes maximize their performance through mental improvement. This includes elite performers in track & field, baseball, basketball, and, of course, football, ranging in levels of competition from collegians to Olympians to professionals.
One of his most prominent success stories is Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk. The former All-American from Ohio State University was drafted in the first round (fifth overall) in the 2006 NFL draft, and was in the midst of a productive but unspectacular career when he began working with Vaughn.
"He was struggling with team politics, and self-sabotage on top of that. Athletes don't just compete against their opponent, they compete against themselves. If your teammate gets a big contract, you start worrying about whether there's enough money left for you. You pick up little nuances, like if a coach talks to you differently, or if he directs a sarcastic remark at you. You're thinking about all this instead of focusing on getting the job done," said Vaughn.
In the 2010 season, his first after working with Vaughn, Hawk completed 111 tackles, after finishing with less than 90 the previous two years. That year the Packers also won the Super Bowl, and the team rewarded Hawk in 2011 with a five-year contract worth $33.8 million.
"People don't realize how much of the game is mental. Damian brought that to my attention and taught me how to clear out all of the clutter on and off the field," wrote Hawk. "He teaches you how to be present and aware of every situation you find yourself in. I look forward to a lifetime relationship with Damian."
Vaughn stresses that his work with Hawk, as with all his clients, is about overcoming the mental and physical challenges of being a professional athlete, not addressing one's personal, off-the-field problems. "It's not life coaching. It is about work, productivity, performance, and leadership," he said.
In one of Vaughn's assignments this summer, he spoke to the University of Oklahoma Sooners football team during their training camp. His talk with the students went so well that executives from Fox Sports offered him a position doing Spanish-language color commentary for Fox Deportes' college football coverage, which he postponed to the 2014 season (Vaughn is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese).
His discussion with the Sooners revolved around finding meaning in their performance and enjoyment in what they do. This is a common refrain of his outreach work, and the driving force behind the research he is doing as a graduate student.
"I love what I'm doing now, but I also love research. So I came here hoping to supplant my outreach work and make my own contribution to the growing body of research in positive psychology, especially revolving around flow," Vaughn said.
His current project involves, not surprisingly, football and motivation. He is looking at how athletes achieve flow in their performance; in particular, he wants to discover the optimal relationship between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation for achieving flow.
In sports, extrinsic motivations include outside rewards: money, adulation from fans, and even winning the game itself. Intrinsic motivation is less tangible. "It's playing for the love of the game, for the joy it brings you," said Vaughn. "There's also the challenge of learning, of pushing yourself, of finding satisfaction with your performance."
For almost any athlete, there will be some balance between intrinsic and extrinsic. In Vaughn's football career, his motivation made a steady shift from largely intrinsic to almost entirely extrinsic as he moved up the ranks, from high school to college to the pros—and his ability to achieve flow in his performance suffered accordingly. It is Vaughn's belief that this focus on extrinsic rewards adversely affected his career—as it seems to for many of the athletes he coaches. Now he is looking at current players from top high school, college, and professional teams to see what effect external and internal rewards have on their performance.
In the NFL, extrinsic rewards—with its lucrative salaries and audiences that number in the tens of millions—are highest in the sport. Those rewards are still present in Division I college and top-tier high school football programs—anyone who's been to a Pacific-12 Conference football game or a high school game on a Friday night in Texas can attest to that—but there is a clear difference in magnitude.
For his research, Vaughn will survey football players at all levels and ask them to rate their extrinsic and intrinsic motivations on a scale of 1–5. Using this data and comparing it to those who self-report experiencing flow will give Vaughn a good idea of what combination of the two types of motivation is most conducive for optimal performance.
In addition, through CGU's Quality of Life Research Center, Vaughn is pursuing two pilot studies: one looking at how athletes' personalities determine what sport they play, another gauging what effect, if any, wearing compression apparel has on athletes' ability to attain flow. These projects are in line with an ultimate goal of carving out a new niche in positive psychology: positive sports psychology. Even better: they are giving Vaughn a chance to work with Csikszentmihalyi.
"Working with Mike has been great. He's just amazing. He is modest and laid back, but his contributions to my work are invaluable," Vaughn said. "What he's helping me do is expand the field. There's already sports psychology, but there isn't positive sports psychology. CGU is already a pioneer in positive psychology, and I think this would be a great place to raise our flag."
Though football is the venue through which Vaughn is predominantly gathering his information, he sees this research as applicable to the general workplace as well. Certainly, most of us don't get tackled by 300-pound linemen or have to hit a 100-mile-an-hour fastball in our chosen profession, but that doesn't mean we don't face the same challenges as those who do.
"The principles are the same," Vaughn said. "I attend production meetings at Fox [Sports] and I see the same dynamic there that exists in an NFL locker room. The stressors—one's own job security, errant comments from your boss—they're the same. It's all about getting past those and focusing on the job."


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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (230 votes).
In short: A wonderful and tough race with plenty of potential for organisational improvementIn full: A nice race blessed with a bright sunny day. You can't manufacture tradition instantly so maybe less Dambusters at the start and more investment in organisation: losing the race through marshalling error and an extra 3/4 mile was a bad start in this respect and sits badly with a weighty £25 entry fee.Date of review: December 4, 2011
In short: Hard but was worth it!!! Date of review: December 2, 2011
Date of review: December 1, 2011
In short: Fantastic setting on a glorious day compensated for the hard work climbing up the hills. A good first effort from the organisers.Date of review: November 30, 2011
In short: A challenging half marathon in a very pretty part of the world.In full: This run is worth a try. A good combination of on and off road with plenty of climbing and decending. A challenge to any runner bored of the usual round the town and back race.Date of review: November 30, 2011
In short: My 1st half marathon. Loved it! Brilliant fun, facilities, scenery, mud & wonderful Marshalls. A crumbling wrinkly running [?!] at the back I appreciate the opportunity to take part in events like this. Thankyou everyone.Date of review: November 30, 2011
In short: great views. steep hills. more steep hills. more great views.Date of review: November 28, 2011
In short: Running's very own bunga bunga partyIn full: Date of review: November 28, 2011
In short: we worth the 5 year wait!Date of review: November 28, 2011
In short: Tough - but totally awesome!In full: This was my first off-road race and I absolutely loved it!The scenery was amazing and well worth all the ascents. The course is off-road, so there are no spectators - except for occasional passersby. But the truly enthusiastic marshals totally made up for it and cheered you on!I didn't mind at all the little extra half mile (I actually didn't realise this until people mentioned it); it was just a pleasure to run that part - as were all the others!I hope the event will take place again next year!Date of review: November 28, 2011
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Red Lobster Isn't Quite Dead Yet
PORTLAND, Ore. (TheStreet) -- When a rumor circulated last week that casual dining chain Red Lobster was going to close its more than 700 locations in North America, only its parent company's denials made such a thing seem implausible.
Even after Darden Restaurants
Same-store sales slipped 4.5% last quarter and Darden has been making noise about spinning off Red Lobster into its own entity. Even in a Darden portfolio that includes the Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse and Yard House chains, Red Lobster falls somewhere beneath the Capital Grille in the pecking order. Darden issued warnings as early as 2012 that its 2 for $25 meal deals were falling short of the 2 for $20 deals offered by its competitors. It's been fairly disastrous since.
Red Lobster's pain has been spread around the casual-dining world like a shared appetizer. One of its adversaries, Chili's and Maggiano's Little Italy's parent company Brinker International, reported earlier this year that the end of those deals coupled with the end of a Social Security tax cut would force it to lower expectations for 2013. NPD Group wasn't surprised and noted that the number of restaurant visits driven by deals rose between 3% and 5% at the height of the recession in 2008 and 2009, but slumped 3% last year.
What casual dining establishments are quickly learning is that nobody's going to buy their reheated food or pre-fabricated atmosphere if they don't feel it's a value. The cost of dinners out rose nearly 3% over the last year, according to the Consumer Price Index. That's more than the 2.2% overall rate of inflation and isn't helped when a $10 promotional meal jumps to $12 or $14, jacking up the price 20% to 40%.
In Red Lobster's case, it's just not the only game in town anymore. It was always billed as a premium seafood spot, which made it a laughable afterthought in coastal areas where options were more plentiful. In landlocked places where such offerings were in short supply, it was destination dining.
At least until recently. As Outback Steakhouse and Carraba's Italian owner Bloomin' Brands
In casual dining, where even fast-casual establishments like Panera


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One man in custody after police chase in North Spokane
SPOKANE, Wash. - One man is in custody after a high speed police chase through North Spokane.
Officers arrested 21-year-old Nicholas O'Neill on Tuesday night for vehicular assault and attempting to allude.
The wild chase all started before 8 p.m. as officers were recovering a stolen car, they heard one shot fired and then immediately saw a car driving recklessly from the area of 3300 West Grace.One man in custody after police chase in North Spokane
Officers started a police pursuit with O'Neill but police say he was so reckless they were forced to end the pursuit. However, a mile later officers started another pursuit with O'Neill but soon lost sight of his car.
Police then saw O'Neill driving at a high rate of speed at Euclid and Division. They say he was "almost airborne." By the time they caught up with O'Neill at Euclid and Post, he had already crashed into another vehicle and injured the driver of that car.
"The officers are describing it as extremely dangerous. We terminated it once, we lost him a second time and because he choose to drive his way, he totaled his car and another car and sent an innocent person to the hospital," Lt. Dean Sprague with the Spokane Police Department said.
Officers started a foot pursuit with O'Neill after the crash. They were able to catch him and arrest him. Police found a handgun in O'Neill's car. Right now they aren't saying if O'Neill fired the shot that first started the chase.
O'Neill is expected to make his first appearance in court Wednesday afternoon.


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On Thursday, November 29, join us at our monthly "Lunchtime Talk" from 12:30 to 1:30PM. Featured speaker this month is Cogswell faculty, Dave Perry, who will share insights into "The Dialogue of Performance: Unspoken Communications in Animation and Film."
The speaker series is sponsored by Cogswell's General Education Program.
Where: Cogswell College, 1175 Bordeaux Drive, Sunnyvale, CA
When: 12:30 to 1:30PM


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Here's how RW members rated this race (40 votes).
In short: Gruelling 10K but very high Grin FactorIn full: This was my first Cross Country type event. The course had to be significantly modified due to the recent inclement weather on H&S grounds. It's a very hilly, muddy course featuring some clambouring over rocks. I can honestly say that despite the cold and the rain, I haven't had so much fun in a long time!! The organisers and the Marshalls are superb offering constant encouragement to all runners. The only downsides for me is the lack of facilities on site meaning you have to stand out in the cold if you are waiting for friends and that the modified course was not the full 10K according to a number of our various devices. I will definately sign up for it again next year!!! Date of review: January 29, 2014
In short: When can I do it again?!!!!!In full: I knew it would be tough and it didn't disappoint. Superb location - the views would have been admirable if only you could take your eyes off where you were putting your feet! Great support and a special mention for the marshalls - conditions for them were atrocious yet they remained enthusiastic and encouraging throughout the race. Good tip in the race instructions to bring a flask of hot drink for afterwards - I wouldn't have thought of it myself and it really did the trick. Really nice medal for finishers and a Jaffa Cake (yay!)My only suggestion would be perhaps a tent or marquee to give runners somewhere dry to change afterwards - my contortionist skills weren't quite up to getting changed in the car without making it filthy!Date of review: January 28, 2014
In short: Muddy, Hilly, FunIn full: Great location and really enjoyed the whole experience. The venue had amazing views and the race was organised well. It was a great challenge and even though it was raining, muddly, cold slippery and tough I loved it and I would do it again in a heartbeatDate of review: January 28, 2014
In full: 1st lap quite hard & nearly gave up but ran as part of a team & also great marshalling kept me going. Next two laps felt ok. Great scenery & interesting course. Great medal too. Would definetly do again, worth the 1 &1/4 hour drive there :)Date of review: January 28, 2014
In short: Mud and Hills and LapsIn full: Mud, hills and laps in the same sentence....but really enjoyed the challenging course. Having been given access to the Olympic 2012 mountain bike course for a second year, the 3 laps consisted of a steep inclines, fast muddy slippy declines and plenty of rocks. The hills were demanding but not enough to put you off. Marshalls made the rain easily bearable and the medal was a nice souvenir. Being the time of year for a coldness, i was disappointed there were no refreshments for tea and coffee, and the distance was cut short due to the recent weather. Both these facts would not put me off for entering in the future. Date of review: January 27, 2014
In full: Hills. Mud. Rocks to climb up!! More hills. More rocks. Steep gravel downhills on very thin paths. Hill I wouldn't even attempt in my car! More mud. Very slippery in places, to add to the challenge. Beautiful view of Hadleigh castle ruins and Southend sea-front once you reach the top of the highest hill. Due to the recent weather they had to shorten the course and make it a 3 lap instead of a 2 lap because some of it was too dangerous and underwater. This didn't detract from the enjoyment, and for me I think made it slightly easier as I knew what was coming up and could mentally prepare.Good mix of elite runners and people like me who have never done anything remotely like it.Fantastic organisation; lovely encouraging marshals helping slower people up very steep slippery slopes. Weather was atrocious, so hats off to all those marshals stood out there for 2 hours!! Atmosphere was amazing - I'm slow as I've only been running a few months and the amount of elite who ran past shouting encouragement was wonderful. Water station provided at end of each lap (approx 3.5k). No changing area but the country park toilets are sufficient and clean. Could have done with more direction signs from the car park to the start, but due to the construction work close by the race organisers had to quickly ad-lib a couple of extra car parks a good hike away from the start. I imagine next year there'll be more parking on-site. Best race I've entered so far, would def do it again.Date of review: January 27, 2014
In short: tough and slippery In full: i didn,t realise how tough this was going to be . the mud , the hills , the rocks and di i mention the mud . it was challanging to say the least . special mention to the marshalls brilliant you kept us all going with your support . well organised in differcult conditions . look forward to doing all again next year hopefully Date of review: January 26, 2014
In short: Mud, medals, mud and did I mention the mud? Great funIn full: So my daughter and I trekked down from chigwell to take part in this race. It was our third race since we started training for our marathon later this year. We chose it because it's hilly and looked like fun It was hillyIt was so muddyIt was so much funI have to say I've not enjoyed a race as much as this one. I was particularly impressed by the other runners. I'm a slow runner. I was overtaken a lot. The elite runners (certainly the first five or six and many of the rest) gave me an encouraging 'well done mate' it a 'good work' This is excellent and made the race very special indeed The race was well organised and a lot of fun during the run. It was very well marshalled and getting a medal at the end is always niceThe course is excellent and although muddy is funI'm certainly doing it next year Date of review: January 26, 2014
In short: Tough but great funIn full: The marshalls were great, the organisation was excellent and it was tough but really enjoyable. Was muddy on the first lap but much worse by the third and some of those hills seemed almost vertical. Thoroughly recommendedDate of review: January 26, 2014
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Kenneth J. Vendette Jr.
Kenneth James Vendette Jr., 39, was taken unexpectedly Tuesday (Feb. 12, 2013) at his home in Dunkirk.
Born May 29, 1973 in Dunkirk, NY, to parents Kenneth J. Vendette Sr. and Toni Lee (Castiglia) Grimm.
He was respected and loved by his grandmother, Mary C. Vendette; parents Kenneth J. (Cheryl) Vendette and Toni Lee (Steven) Grimm; brother Kevin Vendette; friends Angela and Hannah; sister Nicole Vendette (Chance) Supko; Uncles and Aunts Michael (Patricia) Vendette, Jennifer VanValkenburg, Tim (Linda) Vendette; Laura Castiglia and Wendy Bullinger; cousins Dale J. (Kate) VanValkenburg II and Family, Megan and Christopher Vendette, along with several other cousins; and great-Aunt and Uncles, Julia Militello, Anthony Militello and Daniel Millet.
Kenneth was known throughout the area as a talented musician, music producer, songwriter and performer. He was also known for his art work for which he received recognition and a scholarship, but his first love was always his music.
Kenneth graduated from Dunkirk High School in 1991. He then attended Fredonia State University for four years.
He was currently employed by United Refining Company of PA (Kwik Fill) in Dunkirk.
Very quietly, Ken acquired multiple true friends and acquaintances throughout his life.
A very kind and gentle soul, he enjoyed nature and loved to go hiking, camping and just be outdoors.
Funeral services will be held this evening at 8 o'clock at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home. The Rev. Joseph Zalacca will officiate. Calling hours will be held today from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.


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Rated 3 out of 5 by 1 reviewer.
Rated 3 out of 5 by HavinFun Fun Bar Accessory I ordered this drinkware rimming system for my husband for Christmas. Although it is a fun addition to our home bar, the quality is not in line with the price. It is large but entirely made of hard plastic. I was expecting something nicer so that it would be of the same quality as our other bar accessories. We did decide to keep it because it is something that not everyone else has at home. Our guests did enjoy it. Also, it would be nice if you could choose which flavors you wanted instead of just getting what the company puts in the box. January 14, 2014
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...you go, ggggrrrrrrlllll
better watch out, Laz...she has deep knowledge of ancient secret torture techniques AND is studying mystical spellcasting stuff, too
this girl is scarycool
Moderator: Mike
Lazarus_2 wrote:Nobody would hire me to perform anywhere, because I don't play with professionalism nor vocally. And people want to hear things played just-so apparently or it's worthless? .I criticise things and works that is how I am for the most part. New is at the very least good. I rank it higher than MAF but i rank most of his works better than maf cause of the terrible sound quality that nothing can ever be done about. You're asking somebody with no money no resources etc and little or no talent in actually playing most instruments. To write perform record and release works of equal or better quality than a 71 year old with 50 years of experience playing performing writing producing and with 50 years of natural talent for playing various instruments...
Hmmm. Seems a bit unfair comparison to make vs these two extremes.
A more fair comparison would be, look at how good a song/melody/composition I can make with no natural talent nor skill, and how close it comes in melody/lyric/arrangement quality VS this giant of pop-music, considering all this person's(me) limitations. That would be fair.
By that token I am either Paul's equal or better. Just sayin.
Keep in mine I'm a fan of Paul's, and criticise cause I care of the outcome when he releases something.
Edit: had written something else additionally but phone crashed. I criticise cause i care of the outcome and future outcomes.
I was also trying to explain to those who needed explained to why Paul getz hate or dislime from non-fans. It's obviously not the quality of the music itself more, his mannerisms and style with which he exhibits his music. Think of a moment (for those of us who do). That you found cringe-worthy of Paul's..
Times that by a lot anr imagine it happening almost every time you saw him perform or heard a song of his....
This cringing is what i believe most non fans feel all the time with paul.
Lazarus_2 wrote:Additionally the fact that people like macca have all these resources and 'talent' but choose not to release at least one album of material per year I find quite vexxing. Lord knows if I had the resources and there was interest I'd be releasing stuff a the time. Not once ce every 4+ years.
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Wigwam Teton Sportsman Winter Socks 2 Pack
Product Information:
Stay warm and comfortable all winter long in the Wigwam Teton Sportsman winter sock. Fully cushioned and with a seamless toe closure, this Wigwam sock ensures maximum comfort while support is delivered with every wear with an elasticized arch. For unbeatable breathability, the Sportsman comes with a ventilation channel and with a composition of 37 percent wool, it's guaranteed to keep you warm as you take on the harsh winter elements.
Click here for additional information relating to the Manufacturer's Warranty.
- Ultra soft cushion
- Fully cushioned for comfort
- Seamless toe closure
- Elasticized arch adds support
- Ventilation channel enhances breathability
- Fabric: 43% Acrylic, 37% Wool, 18% Stretch Nylon, 2% Elastic
- Made in USA
- Style: P9333
- Wigwam
Click here for additional information relating to the Manufacturer's Warranty.
- Sock Size: Medium = Shoe Size: Men's 5-9, Women's 6-10
- Sock Size: Large = Shoe Size: Men's 9-12, Women's 10-13
- Sock Size: X Large = Shoe Size: Men's 12-15
- Sock Size: XX Large = Shoe Size: Men's 15-17
Country of Origin: United StatesWeb ID: 13230231
Customer Reviews:
Rated 4.5 out of 5�by 4 reviewers.
Rated 5 out of 5�by Jojo62 ...excellent product With the colder winter and snow amounts, these socks made it easier, and comfortable to travel to the hospital where I work - I would highly recommend these socks to all who work in the outdoors as well as those who have to be at work regardless of how cold it is. April 20, 2016
Rated 4 out of 5�by Grasshopper This product is a good buy This product is comfortable and worth the money. That's all I have to say on the review. February 2, 2016
Rated 5 out of 5�by radman Perfect for January Couldn't ask for a better pair of socks during this cold snap. My feet were warm and dry. February 5, 2014
Rated 4 out of 5�by jms1127 Winter Socks I have bought 4 pairs of Wigwam socks in the last month. These two were comparable to the others and help keep my feet warm in the current frigid temperatures. They go good with the North Face Boots I got around Christmas. January 8, 2014
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text: The Los Arcos? diving set up is a great choice for your backyard with its streamlined styling. The Los Arcos? base comes standard in white, and can be upgraded to one of 3 designer upgrade colors. Pair the base with an upgraded color diving board for a sleek look to match your backyard d?cor.


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Composition FOR MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLETDiclofenac(50 mg),Paracetamol(500 mg),Methocarbamol(500 mg)
food interaction for MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLET
alcohol interaction for MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLET
pregnancy interaction for MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLET
lactation interaction for MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLET
Taking diclofenac with alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding.
There is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk, for example in life-threatening situations. Please consult your doctor.
How it works
Common side effects
How it works
Common side effects
How it works
Common side effects
SUBSTITUTES FOR MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLETNo substitutes found
Expert advice FOR MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLET
- Diclofenac should be taken with food or immediately after meals.
- Take the medicine with food to avoid stomach upset.
- Do not take antacids withh magnesium as they can interact with the drug.
- Do not take diclofenac, If you are allergic to diclofenac.
- Do not drink alcohol while takig this drug.
- Do not drive or use any tools or machines, if you feel dizzy, tired, have a headache or get blurred vision after taking diclofenac.
Frequently asked questions FOR MYLAXOL 50MG/500MG/500MG TABLET
Q. Is diclofenac safe?
Diclofenac (also available as voveran, dynapar) is safe if used at prescribed doses for the prescribed duration as advised by your doctor
Q. Is diclofenac nephrotoxic?
Diclofenac can interfere with normal kidney function when taken at larger doses for a longer duration. Patients should follow the advice of the doctor regarding its uses
Q. Is diclofenac safe in asthma?
Diclofenac may worsen the symptoms of asthma in some patients already suffering from asthma. Talk to your doctor before taking diclofenac in asthma
Q. Is diclofenac banned in India?
Diclofenac is available over-the-counter and it is not banned in India
Q. Is diclofenac a blood thinner / controlled substance?
Diclofenac is a pain relieving medication and it does not significantly affect the function of platelets in blood; hence it is not a blood thinner. It is not a controlled substance as it does not have the potential for abuse or addiction
Q. Does diclofenac increase blood pressure?
Diclofenac does not have any effect on blood pressure in normal individuals. However, consult your doctor before taking diclofenac if you are already suffering from high blood pressure or any other heart disease
Q. Does diclofenac induce sleep?
Diclofenac does not induce sleep.
Q. Is paracetamol safe/ banned/ available in India?
Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen, crocin, dolo, calpol, pacimol) is an over-the-counter drug available in India. It is generally safe if used at prescribed doses for the prescribed duration as advised by your doctor
Q. Is paracetamol a painkiller/ used for cold?
Paracetamol is used to relieve mild to moderate pain associated with cold and flu, as well as fever
Q. Does paracetamol make you drowsy / sleepy?
Paracetamol does not cause drowsiness. However, paracetamol is available in combination with cough and cold medicines (eg. cetirizine, chlorpheniramine), which may cause drowsiness or sleepiness
Q. Is paracetamol an NSAID/ antibiotic?
Paracetamol is a anti-pyretic (anti-fever), anti -inflammatory drug, which belongs to the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). However, unlike other NSAIDS, paracetamol can relieve only mild to moderate pain. It is not an antibiotic
Q. Can I take crocin with cetirizine/ aceclofenac/ amoxicillin/ codeine/ tramadol/ warfarin/ erythromycin/ antibiotics?
Yes, paracetamol (available as crocin) can be taken with all of these drugs. Caution is advised when crocin is to be used with warfarin. However, always consult your doctor regarding combined use of crocin with any other drug
Q. Can I take crocin with ibuprofen/naproxen/other NSAID?
Paracetamol (available as crocin) is available over-the-counter in combination with ibuprofen/naproxen/other NSAID. However, always consult your doctor regarding combined use of crocin with any other drug
Q. Does paracetamol cause death?
Paracetamol on overdose can severely damage the liver and cause death. No more than 4 grams should be consumed in one day. Always consult your doctor regarding use of paracetamol
Q. Can calpol make babies/ toddlers sleep/ help in teething pain?
Calpol can relieve pain in infants and children; it does not make them sleep.
Q. Is methocarbamol an NSAID/Benzo/strong drug?
No, methocarbamol does not belong to NSAID, or Benzodiazepine. It is a derivative of guaifenesin
Q. Is methocarbamol 750 mg a narcotic/ habit forming?
No, methocarbamol is neither a narcotic nor a habit forming drug
Q. Is methocarbamol the same as methadone?
No, methocarbamol is a derivative of guaifenesin while methadone is derivative of opium
Q. Can I take methocarbamol for toothache/menstrual cramp/ headache/pain/tooth pain?
Methocarbamol is not prescribed for the treatment of toothache/menstrual cramp/ headache/pain/tooth pain
Q. Is methocarbamol stronger than Flexeril?
No reports are available which confirm stronger activity of methocarbamol compared with Flexeril.


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History's Headlines: Lillian Russell, big star with a lot of heart, entertained Lehigh Valley audiences from the 1880s to the 1920s
Who was the most popular entertainer in Lehigh Valley history?
Well that would cover a lot of territory. But if you wanted to go by sheer longevity and crowd appeal that kept them coming back for more, chances are good you would have to give the prize to someone who is known today only to theater historians.
Her name was Lillian Russell and from her early 20's until she quit the stage in her late 50s, she could fill a Lehigh Valley theater and just about any other theater with devoted fans.
What exactly was the audience's reaction when Russell walked onto a stage? Here is a description from actress Marie Dressler: "I can still recall the rush of pure awe that marked her entrance on the stage. And then the thunderous applause that swept from orchestra to the gallery, to the very roof."
When Russell last appeared in the Lehigh Valley on the stage of Allentown's Lyric Theater- now Miller Symphony Hall- in 1920, the crowd went wild for her. Russell wore a black velvet gown accented by a pin that outlined an elephant in diamonds and pearls, a gift from Anne Held, actress and first wife of legendary theater impresario Florence "Flo" Ziegfeld.
And some might have remembered the day when she first walked on the stage of the city's Hagenbuch's Opera House- Allentown's first theater at 8th and Hamilton Streets- as a vaudeville unknown in the 1880s.
For someone who was to forge a career on Broadway's Great White Way, Russell's life began obscurely. She was born Helen Louise Leonard on December 4, 1860 in the rural town of Clinton, Iowa. Her father Charles E. Leonard was a newspaper publisher. But it was her mother Cynthia, a feminist and strong supporter of woman's rights, who was the biggest influence on Russell's life.
When her daughter turned 18, Cynthia Leonard separated from her husband. She and "Nellie," as Russell was then nicknamed, moved to New York where several years later Leonard became the first woman to run for mayor.
Even before coming to New York, Russell had shown an interest in singing and acting. But her first real breakthrough came in 1879 when she appeared on Broadway as a singer at Tony Pastor's Casino Theater.
Pastor, the leading showman of the day, is credited as the father of vaudeville. Offering a wide variety of acts, vaudeville was designed to make the theater, which had previously been regarded as too risqué for Victorian woman and children, a more refined form of entertainment. Pastor also realized that it would add to the crowds at the box office. Until it was eclipsed by movies in the 1920s, vaudeville was America's most popular form of entertainment.
Russell first appeared in the Lehigh Valley in the early 1880s as a singer in one of Pastor's traveling theater troupes. Allentown newspapers of the time record her as being on the bill with a variety of other acts.
An attractive person with an excellent voice, Russell quickly gathered a following. Whether she was appearing in a Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, one of the most popular vehicles for her talents, or simply as a solo singer, Russell drew a crowd. Her voice was so well known that in 1890 when Alexander Graham Bell introduced the first long distance telephone service, Russell's voice was the first one carried over it.
Along with her musical talents Russell lived a flamboyant lifestyle. When the bicycle craze began sweeping the country in the 1890s, Russell had one made for her by Tiffany & Company's jewelers. It was gold plated with handlebars inlaid with mother of pearl and wheel spokes featuring her initials set in diamonds. When Russell shortened the skirt on her cycling costume by three inches, exposing a bit of ankle, American women were shocked, and then promptly followed her example by shortening their own.
At a time when a lady's name was supposed to appear in the newspaper only three times- birth, marriage and death- Russell was all over the newspapers and popular racy magazines like the Police Gazette, generally found mostly in those two all male sanctuaries of the day: saloons and barber shops.
Married and divorced several times, Russell was best known for her 40 year long affair with James Buchanan "Diamond Jim" Brady. Brady was a self-made multi-millionaire and gambler nicknamed for his collection of diamond jewelry worth $50 million in today's dollars.
He and Russell, even in that era of large appetites, were legendary for their capacity to consume food. When he died, Brady's doctors discovered he had a stomach that was six times the size of an average person. Oysters were said to be among the couple's favorite dishes. "For a woman Nell done damn well," said Brady after one such joint feast.
By the start of the 20th century Russell was gradually cutting down her stage appearances. In 1912 she married her fourth and last husband, a Pittsburgh newspaper owner, and finally in 1919 she quit the stage for good. But true to her roots, she wrote a newspaper column on political affairs and women's rights- particularly the right to vote.
On October 19, 1920 Russell made her last appearance in the Lehigh Valley on the stage of the Lyric Theater to show support for the presidential campaign of Warren Harding.
But for everyone who came to hear her talk politics, many more apparently came just because it was Lillian Russell. "Miss Russell was the star," noted one newspaper.
When the votes were counted, the "Russell effect" seemed to have its charm. Harding carried traditionally Democratic Lehigh County by more votes than it had ever given to any other Republican presidential candidate.
Two years later on June 6, 1922 Russell died at age 61 in her Pittsburgh mansion and everyone realized a star and an era had passed.
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Admiral robbery case moves forward
ESCANABA – An Escanaba man accused of robbing a local gas station attendant at knifepoint last month was recently bound over from Delta County District Court to circuit court.
Marc Allen Grove, 19, was arrested on Jan. 20 following investigation into a robbery at the Admiral gas station at 720 N. Lincoln Road at 7:45 a.m. He remains lodged in the county jail in lieu of a cash bond originally set at $52,000 and later increased to $150,000.
Masked and armed with a large hunting knife, Grove allegedly demanded money from the female clerk on duty that morning. After receiving cash, he fled on foot.
Escanaba Public Safety officers and a police dog tracked him to a residence on the north side of town where he was arrested along with two others.
Grove is charged with one count of armed robbery, which is a life felony. He is also charged with controlled substance – possession of the analogue buprenorphine hydrochloride. The drug count is a felony with a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a $2,000 fine.
Co-defendant Courtney Marie Gartland, 21, of Escanaba, is charged with one count of making a false statement to police investigating a serious felony. The charge carries a maximum sentencing of four years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Gartland was lodged in the county jail and later released after posting a $10,000 surety bond. She waived her right to have a preliminary examination within 14 days. Her preliminary hearing has yet to be scheduled in district court.
A third suspect was arrested at the residence but no charges have been authorized.


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Tuesday, October 16, 2012
On Thursday, Oct. 18, at 10:18 a.m., Claremont Graduate University will participate in the California Shakeout drill. Students, staff and faculty will receive a phone call, email, and/or text notification from our Connect Ed system to start the drill and another notification to end the drill.
We are asking students, faculty, and staff to stop their activities at that time and take a cover position. When you receive the notification that the "earthquake" is underway, stop your activities, and move into a safe position as if you were experiencing a real earthquake. Wait for the all-clear notification before resuming your normal activities. We will not be doing an evacuation drill.
Please make sure your contact information on http://my.cgu.edu is up-to-date.
California is an active seismic area. As in most places in California, Claremont Graduate University is near identified earthquake faults: the Cucamonga Fault at the base of the foothills north of campus, and the infamous San Andreas Fault about 30 miles to the east. There are also numerous smaller faults all along the foothills north of Claremont. There are also unknown fault zones; many only become known to seismologists after an earthquake. The 1994 Northridge quake was on a previously unknown fault. When it ruptured it measured 6.7 on the Richter Scale and caused billions of dollars in damage and many fatalities.
Large earthquakes can sometimes be preceded by a foreshock, a smaller quake within a few minutes to a few hours of the larger quake. That is why it is important to follow the safety precautions when you feel an earthquake and exit any unsafe environments as quickly as seems prudent afterwards. Aftershocks also occur after every earthquake. The larger the quake, the larger the aftershocks. A building that may survive the initial earthquake may come down with aftershocks.
It is important for all Californians to educate themselves on earthquake hazards. There are several good websites with important information to protect your family and your property. Here are a few:
CA Earthquake Authority www.earthquakeauthority.com
So. Calif. Earthquake Center www.SCEC.org
Federal Emergency Management Agency www.FEMA.gov
Earthquake Country Alliance www.earthquakecountry.info
U.S. Geological Survey www.earthquake.USGS.gov
© 2017 Claremont Graduate University • 150 E. 10th St., Claremont, CA 91711 • (909) 621-8000 • Campus Safety • Emergency Info • Campus Map/Driving Directions


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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (593 votes).
In short: Loved it; mud, mud and I'm sure something else?!!!In full: Fantastic atmosphere, good crowd and a top local cafe serving scrambled eggs and kippers afterwards....get in!Date of review: January 20, 2009
In short: Loved it back again next year!!Date of review: December 2, 2007
In short: Brilliant...MUDDY BRILLIANTDate of review: November 22, 2007
In short: The best fun you can have for 9.5 miles cross country when you're covered in mud!dDate of review: November 21, 2007
In short: The most fun you can have in the mudDate of review: November 20, 2007
In short: Just needs a bit of attention to the queues at the stiles and gatesDate of review: November 20, 2007
In short: Fantastic fun with great atmosphereDate of review: November 16, 2007
In short: fantastic, my favourite race so farDate of review: November 15, 2007
In short: No longer a mud virgin!!!In full: Been running for a few years and have always avoided muddy races/runs....I don't do mud!!I watched my husband run it last year and thought what great fun it looked. I was not disappointed, after talking some friends into doing it with me (much to there disgust after they saw the 2006 photos)what a great laugh we had. I was even supporting a slight hangover but the course certainly sobered me up! We had such a laugh and I have never been so dirty in all my life. I was still blowing mud out of my nose Sunday night!!! We have already said that we are going to enter again next year! Everything about the race was great, organisation, marshalls (well done all of you for your fantastic support) goody bag and much needed hot tubs! Thank you Bitton Road Runners!!Date of review: November 15, 2007
In short: Laughs + mud + atmos + organisation = goodie bag = Sodbury SlogIn full: Second year in a row. glutton for punishemnt. Loved every minute of it (again) Especially the magic beans!Date of review: November 14, 2007
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Drive sober on Super Bowl Sunday
The Super Bowl is one of the most widely watched events in sports, and the number one at-home party event of the year.
It is also one of the most dangerous for alcohol related incidents.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2010, over 10,000 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes that involved at least one driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.
The percentage of traffic fatalities that are alcohol related is higher on Super Bowl Sunday than on New Year's Eve or St. Patrick's Day.
Additionally, the number of had-been-drinking fatal crashes on Super Bowl weekend tends to be higher than an average weekend.
"Drafting designated drivers will be a sure win for everybody at your party," said Michigan Liquor Control Commission Chairman Andy Deloney.
"The Michigan Liquor Control Commission is reminding football fans that if your plans include alcohol, make the right decision before kickoff and plan for safe celebrations," Deloney said in a statement.
Allowing the opposing team zero points undoubtedly would lead to victory in the Super Bowl.
Like the 49ers and Ravens, the Wisconsin State Patrol and its law enforcement partners will strive for a shutout on Super Bowl Sunday-zero deaths and injuries from traffic crashes.
"Officers will be particularly focused on preventing drunken driving on Super Bowl Sunday because football fans will be at bars and parties before, during and after the game," says State Patrol Maj. Sandra Huxtable, director of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Bureau of Transportation Safety.
"That's why we are urging fans to not let their fellow fans drive drunk," Maj. Huxtable said. "The key is to plan ahead by designating a sober driver or finding alternative transportation. Last year, there were no fatal traffic crashes in Wisconsin on Super Bowl Sunday, and law enforcement officers will crackdown on impaired drivers again this Sunday to prevent deaths and injuries."
For a safe and fun Super Bowl celebration, WisDOT and the State Patrol offer the following life-saving advice:
– If you're hosting a party, serve lots of food and have non-alcoholic beverages available. Take care of your guests, and don't let them drive if they're impaired.
– Don't serve any amount of alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. Wisconsin's Absolute Sobriety Law prohibits drivers under age 21 from having any alcohol in their system while behind the wheel.
– Pace your consumption of alcohol, and don't drink on an empty stomach.
– If you're feeling buzzed, you're probably over the 0.08 limit and risk being arrested for operating while intoxicated if you drive.
– Above all, plan ahead and designate a sober driver.
– If you see a vehicle traveling erratically and suspect the driver may be impaired, call 911 (as soon as you can make the call safely) and provide as much detail as possible about your location along with the license plate and description of the other vehicle.
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission also offers the following tips:
– Have designated drivers. Plan to have sober drivers at your party who can escort folks home. Volunteer to be a sober driver at someone else's party.
– Plan ahead to get keys. Prepare a basket or bowl where all of your guests can leave their keys. You are the only person who can retrieve the keys. This way, you can prevent a guest who drank too much from getting behind the wheel.
– Have a cab fare fund. Having available cash to pay cab fare for your guests if they need it reduces the stress on you. If you can't afford to pay for it yourself, ask your guests to pitch in a few bucks on your invitation.
– Have a phone number for a cab company handy. Print the name of a local cab company on your invitation and ask your guests to program it into their mobile phones.
– Plan to be sober. Be a responsible host. Limiting your own alcohol intake will allow you to better determine if a guest is sober enough to drive at the end of the night.
– Don't force drinks on your guests. Also, don't rush to refill their glasses when empty.
– Be a smart host; push the food, not the alcohol on your guests. Food is the key.
– Always serve food with alcohol. It is proven that food can help counter the effects of alcohol.
– Stop serving alcohol one hour before the party ends. Serve only coffee, tea and non-alcoholic beverages as the party comes to a close. As the host or hostess, it is your responsibility to help your guests get home safely, so limit the amount of alcohol served toward the end of the party as guests prepare to leave or go home.
"Our advice is 'designate before you celebrate,'" Major Huxtable said. "We don't want your enjoyment of the Super Bowl to be ruined by a drunken driving arrest or even worse, a crash that causes serious injuries or death."
"If everyone will take responsibility for driving sober on Super Bowl Sunday and throughout the year, we can make progress toward the goal of reducing the number of preventable traffic deaths to zero."


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The sites listed below may be of interest or be a resource to those who are looking for more information about collaboration and dispute resolution. Each link is provided for informational purposes only, and does not constitute sponsorship by the BLM. As the websites are outside of the BLM website, the BLM is not responsible for their content, and does not guarantee the accuracy, timelieness, or relevance of the information contained in the websites.
If you are interested in suggesting additional links for inclusion in this list, please contact us.
Government sites:
• U.S. Dept. of the Interior Office of Collaborative Action and Dispute Resolution (CADR)• Federal Interagency ADR Working Group (with links to all Federal agency ADR programs)• Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service• State of Maine• United States Consensus Council• U.S. Institute for Environmental Conflict Resolution
• American Arbitration Association• American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution• Association for Conflict Resolution• Conflict Resolution Information Source• CDR Associates• CPR Institute for Dispute Resolution• Policy Consensus Initiative• Public Disputes Program (part of the inter-university Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School)• RESOLVE• Sonoran Institute• University of Michigan's Ecosystem Management Initiative: A National Resource for Collaboration and Partnerships, co-sponsored by U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Department of the Interior


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Submarine with a chain saw for eco-friendly logging


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Chances are if you've flown recently, you've been on a plane that's WiFi-enabled. In a growing trend among airlines, WiFi is becoming a popular addition to your airs travels. Even though some travelers aren't keen on the idea, most travelers are very excited about having internet access above 10,000 feet.
"I'm all for WiFi being available on planes. It's great to be able to answer emails and stay connected even though you're in the air," said Carol S., a Southwest Airlines customer. "I usually check my work emails and watch movies. It makes the flight go by very quickly."
Airlines are taking note of customers who share Carol's sentiment. In fact, each Air Tran and Virgin America plane has WiFi access. Other airlines are following suit. According to RouteHappy.com, approximately 38 percent of domestic flights in the U.S. have WiFi.
Now it's your turn to tell us – do you use WiFi while flying? Do you use it for business or pleasure? We want to hear from you! Leave a comment below, write on our Facebook page or Tweet us.


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Top Trail Towns: Tucson, Arizona
A desert paradise
In the middle of southeastern Arizona's Sonoran Desert lies the oasis of Tucson, with its metro area of nearly one-million inhabitants, adobe-style buildings, xeriscaped lawns, diverse population and the University of Arizona. Says Wendy Roberts, a 30-year-old writer, Pima Community College writing instructor and trail runner, "Tucson is an artsy, sporty, college town blended with a backwoods, pickup-truck vibe. There's something here for everyone—even humidity during the summer monsoon!"
Beyond the pancake-flat valley containing Tucson, which sits at about 2300 feet, a trail-running paradise emerges via the quiet desert mountains surrounding town. North and northeast of town rise Coronado National Forest's Catalina Mountains. The Rincon Mountains lie to the east as part of both Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest. To the south are the Santa Rita Mountains, also in Coronado National Forest. The Tucson Mountains and their "fairy-tale spikes," as Roberts calls them, hold court over the city's west side in Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park.
> GET THERE / arrive via Tucson International Airport, Amtrak's Sunset Limited or Texas Eagle Lines or Greyhound bus from multiple points, and then rent a car. Tucson is bike-friendly, too, with commuter lanes, wide shoulders and friendly drivers, so consider renting a bike for your in-town explorations (you'll still need a rental car for most trailheads).
> BE A TOURIST / Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert museum to learn about the animals, plants and human history that make up this unique ecosystem. Most Tucson folks say you've got to grub up at the Guadalajara Original Grill, which is best known for its tableside salsa service, made to order per your request.
> TAKE NOTE / Extreme heat is a serious summer consideration, says Roberts. "My rule of thumb in summer is, if I'm not out the door—or better yet done—running by 7 a.m., I wait until evening. An alternative is to go to a higher, more temperate altitude, but there you beware afternoon thunderstorms." And rattlesnakes are common trail sightings, so pay attention.
60 Miles from downtown Tucson to the Mexico border.
350 The close-to-miraculous number of days of sunshine that Tucson experiences each year.
200 Number of years a saguaro cactus can live.


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Tackle Warehouse Angler Backpack
Please Note: Backpack does not include any additional items pictured.
Stronger and more durable than ever, the new Tackle Warehouse Angler Backpack still delivers the incredible storage capacity and winning design of the original - now with some key new features and improvements. For one we've beefed up the durability of the bag, adding new, stronger zippers, as well as a sturdy double luggage handle on top, complete with a neoprene, velcro closure and double stitching. We've also improved on the convenience and functionality of the bag, adding new, designated interior pockets for your camera/smart phone, sunglasses, and your fishing license. The sunglasses and camera/smart phone pockets even feature a plush interior lining to protect against scratches. Three built-in dual pocket worm binders and two additional zip-locking worm binders also now hang from the top (instead of the bottom) of the front drop down compartment for quick bait selection at a glance. The next time you hit the water, don't leave anything behind. The Tackle Warehouse Angler Backpack is back - and better than ever.
Dimensions: 17"H x 13"W x 10"D
-New Extra Tough Zippers and Pull Tabs
-New Durable Double Luggage Handle with Neoprene Velcro Closure
-New Interior Designated Pockets for Digital Camera/Smart Phone, Sunglasses & Fishing License.
-Includes Three dual-pocket Worm Binders & Two Zip-Locking Single Pocket Worm Binders with New Top-Hanging Design
-Main Compartment holds up to Three 3700-sized Utility Boxes (not included)
-Front Drop-Down Compartment holds One 3600-sized Utility Box (not included)
-Velcro Plier Holster
-Two Mesh Rod/Waterbottle Holders & Adjustable Straps
-Two Exterior Zippered Sidepockets for fishing line, valuables, food, etc.
-Interior Key Clip
-Three Additional Interior Zippered Pockets
-Extra Thick Padded Shoulder Straps and Back
More From Tackle Warehouse Accessories
Customer Reviews
Comments: I have owned (and heavily used) this bag for almost 2 years now & it has stood the test of time like a champ! You will not see me at a pond without this on my back & it has served as a great co-angler bag. I can sit it between my legs, or easily fit it into a back storage compartment during a tournament. I can fit 3-4 plano 3700 size boxes in it, depending on how many bags of soft plastics I have packed. Well worth the price, must have for my fellow pond-hoppers & co-anglers!
From: Mason: Birmingham, AL 4/27/16
Comments: I was very excited when I received my back I've had it a couple of months & already the shoulder straps are ripping. Was very disappointed by that. I would say it can hold a lot but only 2 3700 Plano boxes & it says it can hold three. Also the plastics is ripping the ones for your plastics. But overall the back it a good one but the durability isn't up to par.
Comments: I love the backpack for all of its storage but my only complaint are all the mesh fabric used on the straps. That fabric is a hook magnet.
Comments: As the other reviews say, it is a great bag. And I know hat you guys are thinking, "I can fit 3 trays in there if I really try". That thought is CORRECT. I have all the zipper pockets jammed with baits (and yes, it is a little difficult to zip the pockets), but I am able to fit 3 3700 boxes and a 3600 box in the bag. It is a great bag
From: Joe: MN 2/23/16
Comments: I cannot say enough about this bag, I was lucky enough to get this on 25 days of savings in December and the bag only cost $50! I have used it for 2 months now it holds so much gear and is so durable! If there is one thing on this web site that I could recommend it would be the angler backpack! GOOD JOB TACKLE WAREHOUSE!
From: John: NY 2/17/16
Comments: The best bag I have ever used! This bag has pockets everywhere. It is extremly dureble. Best buy for the price
From: Ben: NY 12/13/15
Comments: I have had this bag for about 7-8 months and has been great! There have been complaints about it being too small but I don't see a problem, because I am 6'4, 260lbs & it fits perfectly. The bag is great for wading and bank fishing & I take it almost everywhere I go.
From: Kurtis: Farmington, MO 8/2/15
Comments: I bought one of these two years ago and have put it thru hell! It is in the same condition as it was when first got it. Fits perfectly in a rear storage compartment. Its ideal for a co angler. Great product!
From: Josh: Plymouth, IN 7/18/15
Comments: I have been searching for a long time for a back pack style tackle bag that is comfortable, durable, and relevant for my fishing excursions. This is the one. I t has more than enough room for storage and the rod/ water bottle storage is a plus. I am thoroughly impressed by the Angler Backpack. I have recommended it to several of my fishing buddies and I am sure they will all purchase one, now that they have seen mine.
From: John: Mt. Airy, MD 6/10/15
Comments: Backpack is great. Very nice layout. Nothing else like it. Only problem is that it seems to be made of cheaper materials. The zippers are made from cheap plastic and the strings look as of they are made from cheap polyster. Straps would not for a larger person well at all. Overall great backpack.
From: Zac: NH 11/12/14
Comments: Backpack worked perfect and the layout is awesome so is the quality. I dont recommend it for larger people due to the smaller shoulder strap.
From: Mike: Caledon, ON Canada 10/5/14
Comments: For 70$ it lasted more than a year. I will definitely not get another one. If tackle warehouse made it twice as durable for double the price I would buy it. Its hard to choose a new bag because nothing compares to this layout. At the end of my backpacks life, arm straps were complete ripped off, top handles started to make a whole, plastic zip bags were ripping across parallel to zippers, and plier holder started to make a hole. Other than that everything else held up, the velcro stayed strong and the zippers on the backpack never had an issue. Life expectancy I would say is about 1 year if you fish 1 day a week.
From: Zifa: CA 7/2/14
Comments: Caught a 3 pound Smallmouth on my first cast, after everyone told me the fish weren't biting. Sometimes the lure suspends other times it sinks, either way its erratic behavior was catching fish.
From: Fred: Big Bear Lake, USA
Comments: I personally think that this is great for the price. The rings do open but you can put some electrical tape on them. The straps are a little small but not a problem that is enough to change my opinion on this bag. Overall I think that this is a great bag for the price and has a lot of storage.
From: Andrew: USA
Comments: I personally think this bag is great for the price and I stuff a ton of boxes in it but from based on the other reviews if your going to use it hard and, very often I would go with a different bag but if you are going to not use it very often I say go for it. My only complaint is I can't find any extra binder pages.
From: Carlos: Miami, Florida
Comments: Truly disappointed with this bag. I got it for a birthday gift and one strap is already starting to rip. The Rings for the worm binder always open and never stay closed (Very cheap) so they are always falling off and never even fully loaded. I love the lay out, but should have been made better. I haven't even had a full season with it and only used it 3 times and this is very disappointing. I would send it back, but it's been pasted the time limit on sending it back and I never expected to have problems with it. Buy beware!!
From: Noel: MI
Comments: Review update: strap is now tearing at the top near handle. Plastic zipper is fixable. Nice layout but not durable enough.
From: HmoobYaj: San Diego
Comments: Im going to be very straight forward and to the point. the design of the bag and how everything fits in is awesome. the binder rings are too small and unhook if you really load it up. The backpack straps that go around your arms ripped at the top near the double luggage handle after only 4 weeks of fishing probably 3-4 times a week. Overall this could be a great bag. TW still has some work to do. I would recommend but beware of these problems.
From: Jacob: Foxboro, Ma
Comments: Just got this bag and it is awesome. The perfect bag for taking a good amount of tackle with you for long hikes, walks to your favorite fishing area. Comfortable to carry, and holds alot of gear. Would recommend it to anyone!
From: Dan: Ontario,Canada
Comments: I just got this a couple days ago and used it 3 times and 2 of the zippers broke already but I love the layout of it
From: Luke: yarmouth Nova Scotia
omments: The bag is great but I do with the bag was alittle longer because I am only 5'6 and it digs into my back unless I position it just right. And I wish there was alittle more padding in the straps but other than that the bag is amazing I love it for bank fishing
From: Shane: Brandon, FL
Comments: Love this backpack. BUT, I wish the shoulder straps were a bit longer, because im a bigger guy, and the straps are sorta tight on my shoulders. Other than that, incredible layout!!!
From: Ricky: Los Angeles, CA
Comments: i bought the 1st version of this and after one year of use the top seem has ripped and the shoulder strap now has ripped. i have no faith in the new one. the sad thing is that the layout is awesome.
From: Dave: Utica, NY
Comments: my expectations were pretty high but wheb it arrived I expected something with better materials. The bag is very spacious like many other reviews. however, it is a major upgrade from my school backPack. I dont know how long the bag will last. The shoulder strap is starting rip. I am giving it 1 season, maybe barely 2 seasons before the strap completely comes off. By comparison with my school backpack I have used it for over 5 seasons with no real noticable wear or tear. Thats when I used it strictly as a tackle bag, used it 2 years for school. If I could do it a again I would hold off for a possible 3 gen..or one of the other backpack.
From: AV: WI
Comments: I was unsure if I wanted to get this backpack because people said they ordered the first version and it it ripped within a month. I'm assuming everything was corrected and kept waiting for more reviews to pop up to make up my mind. I finally pulled the trigger to get the backpack and I must say, I'm quite satisfied. However, I'm a little concerned about the straps in the future and whether it will hold up or not. Other than that, a great backpack and enjoying it every time I take it out. On a side note, I wish there was more padding on the straps as it helps with long walks off the bank.
From: Eric: San Jose, CA
Comments: this pack is ok. materials are kind of cheap. holds a lot of tackle, yes. holds 3 3700 tackle boxes, but it is a very tight squeeze...and that is with the front side barely packed. the major downfall of this pack is that the shoulder strap placement is horrible. it is absolutely NOT ergonomically friendly for the back. its like putting straps on the corners of a cube and wearing it on your back...FAIL! i would not recommend this bag and would not buy it again.
From: Cheech: CA
Comments: Its a good durable bag holds whatever you want it to great. The only flaw is that the soft bait binder zippers are junk they broke the first time using them the rings that hold the binder to the bag are also very low quality and come off once or twice a trip. But overall a good investment.
From: Average Angler: CT
Comments: This backpack is very nice, holds tons of tackle, and is very durable, but it is a little small.. which is not always bad, it makes it good for storing. Overall is worth the money.
From: Ed: long Island, NY
Comments: This must have been made by Shimano for TW since Shimano makes one almost identical but the TW backpack has a few more features which makes it a great buy. I keep hearing about the durability of the gen 1 backpack so we'll see how this one fairs. Very pleased with the bag so far, lots of pockets and space.
From: Dougie: Ottawa, ON Canada
Comments: Upon arrival, I was very impressed. Construction is top notch and zippers seem to glide for days. Tons of room for everything you can imagine, but not too much where you feel the need to overfill for a day on the water. The rod holders are an awesome touch as well as the meshy gel net in the front. Stoked on the backpack so far and have taken it out twice with ease, even in the kayak. Lovin it Tackle... Keep em coming.
From: Jon: San Diego, CA
Comments: Nice bag. Smaller than I thought it would be but still plenty big enough. Seems well built and it's very comfortable to carry around. Holds more than enough tackle for me. The flip down worm binders are very nice to have, they don't hold a lot but I just put my top use plactics there for easy access.
From: Ryan: Jacksonville
Comments: This is a great pack to have. Was smaller then I expected, but that makes it nice to store away at the same time. The only thing is how durable is it. Time will tell that.
From: Damon: IN
Comments: Just got the new model....and wow this thing is super nice and top quality construction....holds huge amount of tackle. Well worth the $$$$
From: Blade: Kentucky Lake
Comments: I got the first one, it works and is very useful if you're a non-boater. The downside is that it tore within the first couple of days. TWH did a great job of quickly refunding the bag so I have no complaints.
From: Bradley: Montreal, Canada
Comments: I'm glad they made this one improved. On the previous model the top handle stitching pulled all apart and the plastic bag zippers broke right away on first opening of 2 of them. It's a shame being it was a good backpack for the layout. I can't afford another one. Too bad I can't exchange the defective old one for the new one.
From: Pat: San Jose, CA
Comments: Had the old one, loved it until it fell apart, if it holds up its worth every penny. Only time will tell.
From: Erik: Land of 10,000