tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-190094462024-03-07T03:15:53.741-05:00Tidbits and moreDonna Tocci's thoughts on public relations, marketing, cycling, events, NASCAR and other random tidbitsDonna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.comBlogger211125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-73151963456303642062008-02-05T07:27:00.000-05:002008-02-05T07:34:36.127-05:00VOTE!Today's the day in many states here in the U.S. to vote in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presidential_primary">presidential primary elections</a>. Some states have held <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caucus">caucuses</a> and others have had their primary, but this is what they call Super Tuesday where the majority of the states vote.
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I am not going to tell you who to vote for. I'm not even going to tell you who I'm going to vote for. What I am going to stress is that you get out and VOTE. Make your voice heard.
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If it is raining where you are, like it is here, do not worry, you will not melt. Get to your polling location, spend the time to cast a thoughtful ballot and go home tonight and watch the results. You may or may not be surprised, but you will have made a difference and you will have been heard.
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If you are in New Orleans, however, vote and then enjoy <a href="http://www.mardigras.com/">Mardi Gras</a>...the results will be there waiting when you get home.
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VOTE!
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Just a tiny tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-31789385045058563112008-02-04T21:00:00.000-05:002008-02-04T21:31:16.143-05:00Sunday, Sunday, Sunday...ads, ads, adsIt's been awhile (again!), but I always enjoy talking about the Superbowl ads the day after the big game. For those of us in New England, it was the best thing to talk about today. The rest of "the big game" shall stay forever unmentioned. But, the ads are always a safe bet to discuss.
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I'm going to take a different approach to this year's critique. There is a company that a couple of years ago I was squinting at the screen trying to figure out what that new logo meant. It was a funny U-thinggie, I thought, but I wasn't sure. A few short years later and you'd be hard pressed to find anyone who follows sports who doesn't know what <a href="http://www.underarmour.com/">Under Armour </a>is. They have shot up to the stratosphere in what seems like the blink of an eye. It seems as though wherever I look I see the Under Armour logo on someone, including all through my beloved, "Friday Night Lights". <br />
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As a marketer I'm in awe of the job they are doing to market this company. Last night I was in complete...well, awe....of their strategy. They took out an ad in the biggest arena of the year to announce their new footwear line. Wow! It was an expensive gamble, but that is their audience and Under Armour had their undivided attention. The ad was crisp, had lots of motion and brand spankin' new information for the fans of the brand. Win. Win. Win. Hey, Portland, are you paying attention? (note: Portland is where both Nike and adidas America are based).
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From a marketing perspective that is the ad that made me say, "no way". It was a brand new tidbit of information, I hadn't seen the hype for the ad (although it could have been there and I missed it), and it was riviting. I wanted to see what they were about to tell me.
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On the flip side. As a person looking for entertainment value and an overall pleasing ad, the Budweiser team hit it again. I agree with the <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/money/advertising/admeter/2008admeter.htm?loc=interstitialskip">USA Today ad meter</a>. The dog and pony show was a winner. It pulled on some heart strings, had a classic song that everyone knows regardless of age and a fun ending. Well done. <br />
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The Bridgestone ads were fun, the Etrade baby was funny and the Coca Cola balloons hit a soft spot with me. My grandfather and I had a thing with <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.snoopy.com">Snoopy </a>and the Charlie Brown balloon hit home with me. I'm sure that wasn't quite their intent, but it was heartwarming for me.
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Doritos hit with their two consumer ads. Both the lady singer ad (brilliant last line - she's made it this far now it's up to you) and the giant mouse ad (too cute!).
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I noticed that both during the bit of the pregame show I saw and the Superbowl itself that user generated content is still alive and prevelant. The guy that did the rap before the game has a MySpace cult following (can't think of his name right now....), MySpace itself placed itself squarely during the game with information about how to <a href="http://www.myspace.com/superbowlads">view all of the commercials </a>there after the game. I mentioned Doritos and their ads. But, I also got the feel that the Etrade baby ads were based on a YouTube videos. All capturing the feel of user generated content.
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This all shows us that user generated content is still what people want. More and more large companies are coming to this realization and doing something about it. Bravo.
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The one bit that annoyed me was the over hype of the Sarah Conner Chronicles. Was that because Fox is putting everything they have behind this show or that they didn't have enough advertisers to fill up the show? I even felt that at the end of the 4th quarter that there could have been another round of commercials and their weren't. They showed a lot of the sidelines a few times. It would be interesting to know if, in this economy, that some companies simply felt that the price tag was too much even for the exposure. After all, Dove got more bang for their money with their YouTube video than they would have buying an ad during the Superbowl. I have to wonder how many other companies are trying the "non-traditional" media rather than the big ad buys.
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Another thing - why were there not any political ads? Is that a no-no? I haven't followed the protocol of Superbowl ads to know.
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One ad that I waited for was the new Dale Earnhardt, Jr ad for Amp. I thought it was supposed to debut during the game, but someone saw it Sunday afternoon on Speed. I missed it. The ad Amp did run during the game left a lot to be desired.
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That's all from me about the ads. What did you think? What was your favorite and why?
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Just some "super" tidbits for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-2178354994763899902008-01-14T12:20:00.000-05:002008-01-14T12:30:40.383-05:00Whole Foods Recycled BagsI do some of my shopping at <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">Whole Foods.</a> As someone who doesn't eat meat, it's important to me to get the best veggies I can at all times. Whole Foods does a good job with veggies and isn't that far from my house. My first pick is always <a href="http://www.wilsonfarm.com/">Wilson Farm</a>, but that's a good half hour from my house so that isn't a weekly trip - too much time and gas wasted, in my mind. But, I do make it there about once a month. On the other weeks I go to Whole Foods.
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This week I noticed that not only do their paper bags announce that they are recycled, but they give you tips on how to continue the use of the bag. On both large sides of the bag it proclaims, "Made of 100% Recycled Paper". On one of the small sides of the bag is the "Top 5 ways to keep this bag alive". What a great idea - here they are:
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1. Wrap a gift with it<br />
2. Fill with food or clothing and give to the needy<br />
3. Fold and donate to a food pantry, used book store or thrift shop<br />
4. Craft project! Hat, mast, puppet, paper airplane<br />
5. Use as a trash can liner and stuff with recyclables<br />
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Talk about talking the talk! They are using all recycled materials for the bag and helping you to keep the recycling going. Not to mention, they are using all of their resources to get messaging across - things that are important to them like recycling and their core values (listed on the other small side of the bag). Someone was being a smart cookie when they thought to use all of the bag!
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By the way, I do both number 2 and number 5 myself. And, I carry things to friend's or relative's houses in the handle bags. It's easier than juggling three or four things in my hands.
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Remembe to recycle whenever you can. It's important. Now, thanks to Whole Foods, maybe you have a couple of new ideas of how to go about it.
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Just a green tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-43699671797999745312008-01-14T12:13:00.000-05:002008-12-10T17:18:27.367-05:00Snow Day!<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2t5pcSqzSSRhU1PRnlA7PHoLRwqJBqMAhyphenhyphen9AG5jhGJkBxQe5QXpyIHEWADIC3BKMD-ccsmpcjOdZu8TjX8HG8IY9sIQjgFF0mei6eqCjz-zyAOx70V7qAiVhf05ceYqMkY1MTEQ/s1600-h/011408+snow+day+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155382649237115842" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2t5pcSqzSSRhU1PRnlA7PHoLRwqJBqMAhyphenhyphen9AG5jhGJkBxQe5QXpyIHEWADIC3BKMD-ccsmpcjOdZu8TjX8HG8IY9sIQjgFF0mei6eqCjz-zyAOx70V7qAiVhf05ceYqMkY1MTEQ/s320/011408+snow+day+003.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p><br />
A snow day when you are an adult who can work from home isn't quite as fun as when you were a kid, but it still has its advantages. Hot cocoa on the couch, tv on in the background, blanket wrapped around you on the couch and a little time out for....shoveling! Ok, that last part isn't so fun, but it's all part of snow days. I'll take it! Now...time for that cocoa.... </p><p><br />
<br /></p><p>Just a snowy tidbit for today. Thanks for braving the snow and stopping by.</p>Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-26110797350849676892008-01-09T18:30:00.001-05:002008-01-09T18:39:32.143-05:00Slogan That Pulls You InFor a few days now I've been absently looking at an ad on <a href="http://www.boston.com/">Boston.com </a>that catches my eye every time. It's made me read it and smile every time I do. That's a feat in and of itself. It's simple and true.
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It's the "Life is Short Sale" by <a href="http://www.jetblue.com/">Jet Blue</a>. So true, so true. Life is short, so why wouldn't you click to see what the sale is? So...I just did. It gets better, when you click it says, "Live. Love. Laugh. Fly. Get out there and play. Don't think twice..."
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I like it. Why? Because it's simple. It's not complex or trying to be something it's not. They are gently reminding people that life is short and that you should live. If that means flying, well, hey, they have a sale. They also cover the whole, "well I'll think about it for another time" bit, too. "Don't think twice" just (dare I say it) do it.
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Sale ends Friday and there are no destinations covered that I'm interested in, but I wanted to mention their campaign more than anything. I know they've had their share of mistakes, but just looking at this campaign alone, I think they tapped into something we all think about, we all "know" but don't act on enough. That's probably why it's been catching my eye so often - it's something we all know and even say "life is short" but don't act on much.
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So, whatever your pleasure is, don't think twice...do it, because life <em>is</em> short. Be good to yourself when you can. Thanks, Jet Blue, for the reminder.
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Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-22836373266054818742008-01-09T18:23:00.001-05:002008-12-10T17:18:27.588-05:00Awwww....<p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5153622228041831346" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobkOzIvZRnoDI3qtHP-Ft1uUEMhLMJ-WEXPrTWo92OiLTaSqrGT77DekWbEaTNg4CYfCJMqittl8Zdz53egT-jWuftrsnKf_TlIS7GwNzoD7ZSLOtCCxp5ODiNzIJeQISHspkqQ/s200/0108+polar+bear.jpg" border="0" /><br /></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">(photo: AP via boston.com)</span><br /><br />
</p>Here is your <a href="http://www.boston.com/news/world/gallery/010907_baby_polar_bear/">"awwwwww" moment</a> for the day. A baby polar bear being cared for at the Nuremburg zoo. There are several pictures at that link.
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Think I could get one of those? Soooo cute!
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Enjoy.
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Just a tiny, tiny tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-7953135393588612092008-01-06T09:50:00.000-05:002008-01-06T10:16:58.126-05:00US Presidential DebatesThroughout the years I've followed politics more from the corner of my eye than straight on. To me, most candidates for anything are just people who love to hear themselves talk and blow a lot of hot air. There have been a few exceptions, of course, but as a general rule, well, there you have it in my little opinion.
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Since I haven't been keeping up too much with the US presidential run until last week, I decided to sit down for the marathon debates last night. If you aren't in the US, both major parties had a debate on the same night in the same place. The Republican candidates debated for 90 minutes first and then the Democrat candidates came out and debated for the next 90 minutes. In the middle they all came to the stage for an interesting photo op. I'm sure photographers were in their glory capturing all the body language going on there.
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I'm not going to get into my political views here, but I will say that there is one candidate that I absolutely hate with a passion, one candidate that I want to vote for hands down, but have issues with some decisions in that person's personal life (which might effect how that person could run the country) and others that I just wonder why they are even there.
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However, the last question of the night was a pivotal one for me. I wish they'd had more like it for both parties. The last question to the Democrats was something like this, "You have participated in numerous debates with each other up to this point. What is something that you regret saying and wish you could take back?".
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Brilliant question! It was a time for these folks to show their human side. A time for them to admit, yes I do make mistakes (because every single person does) AND to show how they handle that mistake. In other words how they presented it to the public. After all, any person who steps into the White House will, inevitably, make some mistake - big or small. They will have to address the mistake at some point and how they do that will sway public opinion and confidence. Oh yea, I couldn't wait to hear their answers.
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<a href="http://www.hillaryclinton.com/">Clinton</a> was first up and completely disappointed. She didn't answer the question at all! She used the time to get more messaging out about her positions and then ended with that she'd let her opponents discuss her mistakes. Excuse me? That's how you'd handle a mistake in the White House? Complete dud of an answer.
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<a href="http://www.richardsonforpresident.com/">Richardson </a>was next. He was open, honest and had a great response. He'd answered a question about a Supreme Court Justice and, when he researched the person more in-depth later realized that the person was for segregation. He felt terribly about that and wished that he'd thought about his answer more carefully. Mistake? Yes! Huge. Spoke before he had all the facts, but did the research later (ok, an aide probably did) and now admits that he should have had more facts first. Good deal. Honest. I appreciated that.
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<a href="http://www.barackobama.com/">Obama</a> did a complete cop out like Clinton. Took the same route and even, for the first time in the night, agreed with Clinton to say that he'd let his opponents decide that. Again, complete dud of an answer. Where is the human side?
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<a href="http://www.johnedwards.com/">Edwards</a> was lead into his regret, but I think he was going to say it anyway. He took an 'easy' way out, but nonetheless didn't try to turn it around to talk more about his views. He regretted a comment about Clinton's wardrobe earlier in the campaign and complimented her on her choice last night. Short and to the point - made a mistake and tried to right it (although a little obviously). Again, a human side to the politician.
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We all know the candidates are flesh and blood human beings. We all know people make mistakes, but it how they handle those mistakes that matters. I would have liked to see more of that last night. I do think that the Democrats did a better job at showing humanity than the Republicans who were just out to stab each other at any chance they could get. I wished they'd asked them a humanizing question at the end, too.
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Yes, the issues are paramount and I want to hear how the candidates feel about all of them. But, I also want a president this time around that I can have at least some confidence in as a person. Part of that confidence is understanding a little bit about them as a person, too. Is it so much to ask to see a human side to these folks, too?
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Just a tiny political tidbit this morning. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-51637556165662339542008-01-03T18:24:00.000-05:002008-01-03T18:32:26.999-05:00Two Smart Cookies TogetherWhen I first started to blog I was pushed into it a little by <a href="http://redcouch.typepad.com/weblog/">Shel Israel</a> (he was right, but the way, but don't tell him that...shhhh) to get going and helped along the way by my friend in Australia <a href="http://leehopkins.net/index.php">Lee Hopkins</a>. I've learned bunches from both and am excited to see they had a collaboration of sorts this week.
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Shel did an <a href="http://redcouch.typepad.com/weblog/2008/01/sap-global-surv.html#comments">email interview with Lee and posted it</a> yesterday. I'm a day behind, but it is interesting reading. Great questions and thoughtful answers. Anyone interested in social media, especially in Australian business, can learn a lot from it. I did. Check it out.
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Bravo guys!
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Just a quick tidbit on a frigid New England night. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-86129149925190545802008-01-02T18:27:00.000-05:002008-01-02T18:45:53.495-05:00Phrases to Kick to the CurbI was listening to the radio while driving back to work today -- seriously, one day off in the middle of the week is a tease - nice, but a total tease! But, I digress...let's start again... <br />
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I was listening to <a href="http://www.wzlx.com/">WZLX </a>this morning where the morning crew was in the middle of talking about words that should stop being used because they are basically "over done". Some they came up with are: <br />
"don't even go there" <br />
"at the end of the day" <br />
"all said" (the guy who called in with this one rightfully said that this doesn't even make sense) <br />
"sweet" (when not used in reference to candy or cookies)
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I can see that. Reminded me of a piece by Sarah McAdams that I read on <a href="http://www.ragan.com/">Ragan.com</a> recently about the 12 top mistakes in corporate writing. Yes, I've made a few - you have to, don't think you haven't. It was an eye opening list.
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At the end of the article she has a list of annoying jargon and overused phrases which had me nodding my head. We all hear them....might even say them ourselves, but when they are there in black and white it makes it seem a little more..well, silly. Here are a few of my favorites (comments are mine): <br />
"Take this offline" (um, we are all sitting in a conference room, we aren't 'online') <br />
"Circle back" (what happened to old fashioned, we'll get back to this in a minute, or an hour, or never) <br />
"Circle the Wagons" (little too old fashioned, maybe? We aren't on the Little House on the Praire)
<br />"Out of pocket" (makes me think of James Bond...007 is out of pocket catching the bad guys) <br />
"Table that" <br />
"Loop you in" <br />
"Net-net" (must admit, I'd never heard this before) <br />
"Bucket" <br />
"In the weeds"
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And that's just the short list. It was interesting to read and know that other people think these are overused and, maybe even inappropriately used.
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For marketing and PR folks it should make you think that these are phrases not to use in the new year. They are over used, over done, whatever you'd like to call them, but people don't want to hear them any more. That means that the people you want to get your message out to or people you want to create a community with certainly don't want to hear these phrases. Let's get fresh ones - ones that make sense - ones that don't include wagons, please.
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We are creative people. We can come up with a whole new list that will be over used by December, 2008, right? Think about it. Let me know what you come up with.
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And, while we are at it, what is your favorite overused phrase? Do tell.
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Just a rambling tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-68128828028902807802008-01-01T09:23:00.000-05:002008-01-01T09:56:30.585-05:00Happy New Year Everyone!Ok, so I don't know if "everyone" is the right word there...maybe "one" is more like it. It's been so long I don't know if anyone will find this little corner of the blogosphere any more. So to the one of you who is reading this, Happy New Year!
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As anyone who knows me knows, I pretty much stopped writing here when my <a href="http://unbreakable-bonds.blogspot.com/">work blog </a>went live in April. I've never been good at doing two blogs - as we all know by my less than sporadic postings on the <a href="http://bicyclemarketingwatch.blogspot.com/">Krew's site</a> this last year, too. The work blog took more time than I thought and, to be honest, writing once a day for a blog was enough for awhile.
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However, for a variety of reasons, it's time to start up this little ole blog again. Mostly because I have a lot to say that is not work related or appropriate for the work blog. That's pretty much my space, too, but it has a different tone and content than this one did and will. I like it here in "my world".
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So, what's been happening in the last 6-8 months? Lots - and I've had lots of thoughts and ideas about public relations and marketing over that time. So much so that my cup runneth over and I've wanted to share those thoughts numerous times but just didn't have a chance. I'm making the time now. Maybe not every day, but regularly.
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I'm also starting to write for <a href="http://www.lifeatperewitz.com/">Life at Perewitz</a>. That's the "Plog" started by Jody Perewitz about all things at Perewitz Cycle Fab. It's interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes there and, many times, it's a total hoot! Jody has added video which can be fascinating (watching Dave Perewitz paint!) to cute (watching the dogs play around). I'll try to add something of interest every once in awhile. <a href="http://perewitz.blogspot.com/2007/12/different-plog-post.html">Here's my first post there</a>.
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I've, barely, continued on <a href="http://www.the-spokesmen.com/wordpress/">The Spokesmen Podcast </a>this year. They have promised not to kick me out of the group, but part of my resolution this year is to attend more often. We did a live and in-person show at Interbike this year in September. That was just too much fun. I wish we could do it that way all the time.
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What else? Oh yes, I've tried my hand at both <a href="http://www.myspace.com/">MySpace </a>and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/">Facebook</a>. MySpace isn't my favorite, but I have a couple of friends who are only there so I've kept an account just to keep up with them. Facebook, on the other hand, has me slightly addicted. I love it there. I don't use it for everyone I know, just close friends and family. It's a place where I can truly keep up with the younger generation of my extended family. It seems like they are all on it, all the time. It's a hoot. I love it, love it, love it. I've joined groups, sent gifts, candy and send messages often. It's just plain fun.
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<a href="http://www.linkedin.com/">LinkedIn</a> has become a highlight for me recently, too. I enjoy having a place where many of my professional contacts are listed, not to mention the ability to look at their contacts to see if there are any good fits there - be it for a graphics person or something else. I know I'm not using it to its full potential yet, but I've already reconnected with some people that I'd lost touch with years ago that I never thought I'd find again. People from former jobs, people from college. It's quite good for the whole professional network.
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So, on a day where there are resolutions being made world-wide, here are some of mine: <br />
- I will post regularly in "my world" here on Tidbits and More. Hopefully, some of the tidbits will be interesting to someone out there. <br />
- My whole adult life I've struggled with weight, like so many other people. And, like most of them, I'm tackling that starting today, too. <br />
- I'll attend more Spokesmen podcasts - really! <br />
- It's been way too long since I've been to a bicycle race. This year I'll meet some friends at a race to cheer on my friend <a href="http://www.tylerhamilton.com/">Tyler</a> who will be <a href="http://www.velonews.com/news/fea/13825.0.html">back in the saddle again</a>-finally. It's time for my friends and I to chalk the roads again - we have such a blast doing that together. <br />
- And...well, I predict there will be some personal growth and changes, too, this year. I'll keep those to myself for now, but will share when the time is right.
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I think that's it for now. Thanks for indulging me on your New Year's Day. It's good to be back here in my own little world. It's like coming home after a long trip.
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Just a long ramble of tidbits after so long. Thanks, so much, for stopping by again.
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Happy New Year!Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-23908227151094594802007-06-13T10:02:00.000-05:002007-06-13T10:08:19.718-05:00Dale Earnhardt, Jr. goes to........HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS!
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"One stood out above the rest"...Dale, Jr.
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You think????
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Hendrick now has.... <br />
- Casey Mears...up and comer with his first win under his belt.<br />
- Jimmie Johnson....defending Nextel Cup Champion.<br />
- Jeff Gordon...shortly to be the 5-time Cup Champion.<br />
- Dale Earnhardt, Jr....the fans most popular driver. <br />
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I think this is pretty much a dream team!
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Jeff Gordon, Jimmie J and Junior. Woa....it doesn't get better than that for this race fan!Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-7957935947363191802007-06-04T15:02:00.000-05:002007-06-04T15:04:27.068-05:00R.I.P. Mr. FranceIt's a sad day in NASCAR...
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<a href="http://www.nascar.com/2007/news/headlines/cup/06/04/bfrancejr.dies.obit/index.html">"Bill France, Jr. Dies at 74"</a>
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"He had a remarkable career and an even-more remarkable life. Words cannot express how much he'll be missed by myself and the rest of our family and by the NASCAR industry overall."
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- Brian France, son and NASCAR chairmanDonna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-85032752898924761722007-05-25T21:34:00.000-05:002007-05-25T21:43:27.534-05:00Changing Tunes"I feel really bad about this case. Basso is the worst that could happen to me - it has ruined my image. I need to fix that and right now it's a tough job." <br />
Bjarne Riis, August, 2006
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"I have taken doping. I have taken EPO. I have made errors and I would like to apologize....My jersey is at home in a cardboard box. They are welcome to come and get it. I have my memories for myself." <br />
Bjarne Riis, May, 2007Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-66861621180892171032007-05-10T10:46:00.000-05:002007-05-10T10:53:14.908-05:00Dale Earnhardt, Jr. leaves DEIThis has been rumored for quite some time, but here is <a href="http://www.nascar.com/2007/news/headlines/cup/05/10/dearnhardtjr.news.conference/index.html">Dale, Junior, in his own words</a>, announcing that he will be leaving the company his father built at the end of this race season.
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What will happen next? We can only wait and see. There are a lot of theories and I'm sure there is more planned than he's letting on. From the marketing/PR side of things, he's smart to do this announcement today, which, to some people, will be a negative announcement. Then, a week or month down the line announce his future plans when it can be a pure celebratory announcement.
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What do you think? Will he race for himself through JR Motorsports? Will he go with Richard Childress, like his dad did (3 car or not)? Where else might he end up?
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And...will DEI relinquish the 8 number and give it to Dale to race with wherever he goes next? Race teams 'own' the numbers, but that was his grandfather's number....and so much associated with Dale. I can't picture that it would be a popular decision to put someone else in the 8 car for DEI. Then again, they may just hold it like RCR is holding the 3 number for the future.
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Wherever he goes and whatever he chooses to do next, I hope it is a great adventure for him. We know the fans will follow no matter where he goes.
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So, what do you think?
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Just a speedy tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-66670238017966710292007-05-09T18:37:00.000-05:002007-05-09T18:46:22.728-05:00Tyler Hamilton in IMAXSome of you may remember back in 2003 that there was an IMAX movie, "Brain Power" being filmed during the Tour DAY France. It was to feature <a href="http://www.tylerhamilton.com">Tyler Hamilton</a> and focus on the pain a body goes through during an event like that. The film makers couldn't have known that they picked the perfect rider to focus on. This was the year that Tyler broke his collarbone early on in Le Tour and continued on every single day of Le Tour - even winning a stage. I have a poster on my wall of him winning the stage, by the way.
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After the drug accusations, the film folks decided to re-film and cut out Tyler. From a PR perspective, I get it. From a film perspective, I don't. He was still the perfect, perfect specimen for pain in an event - broken collarbone on a bike...in the mountains...being more than competetive. I'll bet they have great footage. Up until now, we didn't get to see too much of it.
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But, that has all changed now that my friend and fellow Spokesmen, Carlton Reid, has <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypGlreJYFWM">posted a clip on YouTube</a> and will be posting even more on Quickrelease.tv.
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Check it out. It's spectacular footage. Forget about all the drug hoopla going on and just enjoy the views in this piece.
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Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-43869391515672071382007-05-08T06:16:00.000-05:002007-05-08T06:22:41.677-05:00Ivan BassoWhen I turned on my computer and <a href="http://www.cyclelicio.us/2007/05/ivan-basso-confesses-to-doping.html">saw the news</a> about <a href="http://www.velonews.com/news/fea/12213.0.html">Ivan Basso </a>I admit I was so sad. I look forward to hearing what he has to say today.
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It's a sad day in cycling. Not because Basso wanted to be honest, but because he felt he had to do it in the first place.
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More and more, I'm thinking it is time for all of us who love cycling to concentrate <a href="http://unbreakable-bonds.blogspot.com/2007/05/bob-roll-list-every-day-bike-riding.html">on every day riding</a>. Personally, the pros are just disappointing and frustrating to me.
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Just a tiny tidbit this morning. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-76101926306045623982007-04-22T09:06:00.000-05:002008-12-10T17:18:27.773-05:00Jeff Gordon gets #76<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WILUOdb_czimOTChqyroNFryn49QjVg81boKfDcS7TXMBLEVQv5bqj1TKJW7u5ViFri51MP0olS13M7pRNd15aeK99kcOWzBu0SjcpdKVnwFC1okmTmKym5wvoLzCkZlbnsTBQ/s1600-h/Jeff+dale+flag.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056253851823071378" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WILUOdb_czimOTChqyroNFryn49QjVg81boKfDcS7TXMBLEVQv5bqj1TKJW7u5ViFri51MP0olS13M7pRNd15aeK99kcOWzBu0SjcpdKVnwFC1okmTmKym5wvoLzCkZlbnsTBQ/s320/Jeff+dale+flag.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">(Photo:AP/Paul Connors)</span></div><br />
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Congratulations to <a href="http://www.jeffgordon.com">Jeff Gordon</a> and his <a href="http://www.hendrickmotorsports.com">Hendrick Motorsports</a> team for last night's win at Phoenix. This ties him with the late <a href="http://www.daleearnhardtinc.com">Dale Earnhardt</a> for 76 all time NASCAR wins. He mentioned last night that he didn't want his excitement to come off the wrong way (as arrogant, I assume). I think he did a nice job of showing, during his victory lap/celebration, that he knows he shares the spot on the list with one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. Nicely done, Jeff. Nicely done.
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Just a speedy tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-78365392175415922402007-04-19T06:02:00.000-05:002008-12-10T17:18:28.318-05:00Tour de GeorgiaAlthough I am not able to get to the Tour de Georgia this year (bummer), I feel as though I'm part of the fun thanks to Reva (also known as Reval Keneval to you folks). Along with her friend and wonderful husband she is making sure that <a href="http://www.bitchkittie.com">BK</a>, <a href="http://masiguy.blogspot.com">Tim Jackson</a> and I are all represented on the roads. <div>
</div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Io5H7TSszaCzgaTIWEPj-54uZPQfKcB5ptSycW8s2bI6cBRrkDL1n8Q9NyQa0aHsYtGGUehsxRdL8XzgfT-zgjOqo7yx-SqpeBr08q9gE2KvcmrUPGa3wr4rrRHMm3wROi-Q9w/s1600-h/road_art_3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055093957250080866" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Io5H7TSszaCzgaTIWEPj-54uZPQfKcB5ptSycW8s2bI6cBRrkDL1n8Q9NyQa0aHsYtGGUehsxRdL8XzgfT-zgjOqo7yx-SqpeBr08q9gE2KvcmrUPGa3wr4rrRHMm3wROi-Q9w/s320/road_art_3.jpg" border="0" /></a>
</p><p>She's also there cheering on our friend Tyler. It's been such a long time since we could be there, in person, rooting for him. We first chalked the road for Tyler back at the <a href="http://www.longsjo.com">Longsjo Classic</a> in Fitchburg many, many moons ago. It was a blast! I so wish I could be there, but I know Reval is doing a great job.</p><div>
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</div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrtl66DKQDYjKE1ooADGJRUxGZXcliIoZHtZ4PmTQnVpKKQ9JFB7oRZXhowtsArGuKBGhME_zVzm_JNKbXN7fOWJeYvGSakii_0cof0X-vdAbS_kaexfMRpEpkiOCTPWORfE_rSw/s1600-h/road_art.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055094700279423090" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrtl66DKQDYjKE1ooADGJRUxGZXcliIoZHtZ4PmTQnVpKKQ9JFB7oRZXhowtsArGuKBGhME_zVzm_JNKbXN7fOWJeYvGSakii_0cof0X-vdAbS_kaexfMRpEpkiOCTPWORfE_rSw/s320/road_art.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div>
</div><p>Thanks, Reval!!!! </p><div>
</div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_9A6EkSlTuGKrcWe7jqRO1Ku6vW3fVSL_OMzV4t0VUdUU1H0PEoLb0cxjovrheMyZSaW3k3F5qVlyGafkiztgIpXZjnrfDkjdKLHQ3JLGIyYGdDgvo6DSdOqyxJTNrUtZLbLZA/s1600-h/TH_in_peleton.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5055095275805040770" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_9A6EkSlTuGKrcWe7jqRO1Ku6vW3fVSL_OMzV4t0VUdUU1H0PEoLb0cxjovrheMyZSaW3k3F5qVlyGafkiztgIpXZjnrfDkjdKLHQ3JLGIyYGdDgvo6DSdOqyxJTNrUtZLbLZA/s320/TH_in_peleton.jpg" border="0" /></a>
</p><p>Allez Tyler!</p><div>
Just a cycling tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.
</div><p></p>Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-81826983955940845392007-04-16T05:56:00.000-05:002007-04-16T06:03:46.589-05:00Marathon MondayIt's Marathon Monday here in New England. It's a wild, wild day here, too. Temps are in the mid-to upper 40s, which would normally be perfect for the runners. However, there is driving rain and wind gusts up to 50+mph.
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The race is still set to go at an earlier time than normal (for years it's gone off at noon). This year it's 9:25am for the wheelchair race start. 9:35am for women. 10am for men. That's a little over 2 hours to go from now, but they aren't predicting that the winds will die down at all by that time.
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I have a special place in my heart for the marathon and I know the race director is the best in the business, but I just hope everyone is safe today. Watch those flying branches everyone and be safe.
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Just a windy tidbit today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-12062631179086706202007-04-12T08:24:00.000-05:002007-04-12T08:34:48.956-05:00Kryptonite Has a Blog!It's official and you heard it here first*- <a href="http://www.kryptonitelock.com">Kryptonite</a> now has an official blog. <a href="http://unbreakable-bonds.blogspot.com">Check it out</a>.
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*Ok, you heard it here first because I author both blogs....but you knew that already. :)
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Just a speedy announcement. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-20874114062513165642007-04-08T09:34:00.000-05:002007-04-08T09:43:41.324-05:00Easter SundayHappy Easter to all who celebrate this holiday. To those that don't, I wish you an enjoyable day with your family and friends!
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I know this blog has been neglected lately, but with all the travel I've been doing for <a href="http://www.kryptonitelock.com">work </a>combined with the 11-12 hour days at the office when I'm in town, there hasn't been a lot of motivation to get on the computer when I get home. It happens.
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But, a lot of the work I've been doing the public will start to see in the next couple of weeks. This week there will be a new blog in the blogosphere....and the week after that there will be a brand new website...and then a complete brand relaunch. It's a lot of work, but I think the results will be something people like. At least I hope so!
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More on all that later, right now it's time to go spend some time with family. And then, tonight...watch the new Sopranos episode!!!
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Hoppy, Hoppy Easter to all of you.
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Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-679599900553642442007-03-13T20:44:00.000-05:002007-03-13T20:51:50.788-05:00NASCAR & My Favorite Rock Band - TogetherI don't know how I've missed <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ja6RpEfRWHQ">this </a>up to this point. For race fans from Boston, it doesn't get any better than this. <a href="http://www.nascar.com">NASCAR</a> and the <a href="http://www.aerosmith.com">Bad Boys of Boston</a> teaming up together for a slightly altered rendition of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ja6RpEfRWHQ">"Back in the Saddle"</a> for ESPN's 2007 coverage. The concert footage was from Las Vegas and Mohegan Sun and the stages were set up like the band was at a track with race tires and equipment.
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I might just need to go watch it again. NASCAR. Aerosmith. Good deal.
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Just a zippy tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-42296981514330008502007-03-11T17:53:00.000-05:002007-03-11T17:57:49.569-05:00It's Spring in New EnglandIt was such a great weekend, temperature-wise, in New England that I actually saw my first recreational cyclist yesterday. Now, I've seen folks riding to work and guys that look like they are seriously training or something, all winter. I've even seen a few kids riding to school. But, you usually don't see plain ole recreational cyclists in the middle of winter here (I'd know this because I am one).
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Yesterday, I saw the first! I was so excited, it made me think that maybe I should get out my bike and see what needs to be done to it before Spring really gets here. I'm so glad that guy was out there as I drove by - gives me hope that Spring is right around the corner.
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Today, I saw at least 10 motorcycles go by my house, too. All kinds and colors. Another sign of spring.
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Ok, I know, just like anyone else who lives in or has lived in New England, that we can still get a blizzard. Oh yes, not just snow, but an honest to goodness blizzard. But, for now, I'm enjoying my little slice of spring in New England. And...better yet, I'm thinking about my bicycle....
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Just a little spring tidbit from New England. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-76201455065527472992007-03-05T19:09:00.000-05:002007-03-05T19:48:36.072-05:00Why I Blog - The Kick I NeededSo, the last month has been hectic, to say the least. Two trade shows in two different countries, an entire website needed to be written in a week - yes, a week - and the flu made an appearance during the middle of it all. Craziness, I tell you. No energy to blog after all that, especially during the flu gremlin. But, there is always someone who will kick you in the pants and make you get moving again, right? That would be <a href="http://masiguy.blogspot.com">New York Times Jackson (aka The Masi Guy</a>). Truth be told, it usually is and I appreciate him for that.
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I see that <a href="http://masiguy.blogspot.com/2007/03/5-reasons-why-i-blog.html">he's tagged me </a>with the newest meme, "5 Reasons Why I Blog". I feel so 'in', which is too funny. But, before I start, I suggest that you read Tim's reasons. He's always a pleasurable read.
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So...why do I blog (when I can find the time, that is...).....
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1. Learning. I started to blog so that I could learn all about this phenomenon called 'blogging'. I wanted to learn the ins and outs and try to be a 'cool kid'. Ok, so I'm not so much of a cool kid even over a year later, but I am still learning. Even when I'm not writing, I'm reading and learning. This has been a great educational experience for me both professionally and personally.
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2. Collaboration. I've met some super intelligent folks through this blog and had the good fortune of collaborating with some of them. <a href="http://leehopkins.net/index.php">Lee</a> took a huge leap of faith last year and, shortly after 'meeting' me, asked me to edit a piece of his work. Going back to reason one...I learned so much from reading his work and collaborating with him - it was a complete pleasure. I've also collaborated with <a href="http://www.crookedcog.com">Tim Grahl</a> and a host of others that I met through blogging. It's very rewarding and highly flattering. Selfishly, I hope this trend continues.
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3. Conversations. I love to get to know people, hear their ideas and discuss them - even if they differ with mine - heck, especially if they differ from mine. This blog gives me another way to converse with people. The conversations that have been started here with some topics have been great fun and stimulating. Some have moved to other blogs and continued along their merry way there with additional input. I love that.
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4. 'Meeting' You! So many people have come by in the last year plus and left a comment - people I have similar interests with, yet never would have met without this blog. That would be you - yes, you! I get a big 'ole grin on my face when someone new leaves a comment on a post about NASCAR (hey, how about Juan Pablo Montoya this weekend?!) or about the Tour DAY France. Someone I don't know - someone who was reading all along - someone who has similar interests and then just pops off a little comment. I really enjoy that. Keep 'em coming.
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5. Having a voice. Anyone who has met me in person knows I, absolutely, have a voice! But, I mean here, in the blogosphere and in this ever changing marketing world we live in. I have a place to voice my opinions about a variety of topics and, hopefully, spark a conversation that I can learn from. I hope that I don't use this space to pontificate - I'd hate that and I try to stay away from that, but I do enjoy having a space for my voice. Thank you for indulging me.
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So, there you have it. 5 reasons why I blog - maybe not as often as I'd like, but I do when I can.
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And now I tag.....
<a href="http://www.crookedcog.com/">Tim Grahl </a>- because, if you don't know Tim through blogging, you will in the not-so-distant-future. He's got so much going on over in his 'neighborhood'. <br />
<a href="http://www.interbiketimes.com/">Rich Kelly</a> - I know he's getting ready to go to the Bike Summit, but I like to encourage his blogging because he has good things to say.... <br />
<a href="http://www.ownyourbrand.com/">Mike Wagner</a> - one of those intelligent folks I've had the pleasure to 'meet' through blogging and he always, always, always teaches me something. <br />
<a href="http://www.communityguy.com/">Jake McKee </a>- Big in Japan honcho and one smart cookie!
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Just some tidbits for tonight. Thanks for continuing to stop by after so long!Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19009446.post-57287919527163909322007-02-08T07:28:00.000-05:002007-02-08T07:23:22.296-05:00No Floyd Landis in Le Tour This YearBreaking Cycling News.....
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Reuters is reporting that <a href="http://today.reuters.com/news/articlenews.aspx?type=sportsNews&storyID=2007-02-08T120406Z_01_L08814884_RTRUKOC_0_US-CYCLING-DOPING-LANDIS-TOUR.xml&WTmodLoc=SportsNewsHome_C1_%5BFeed%5D-9">"Landis will not take part in the Tour de France". </a>There is quite an article with full quotes from Floyd. Check it out.
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Speedy tidbit for this morning. Thanks for stopping by.Donna Toccihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025851866742785001noreply@blogger.com1