OLN viewership & Last Tour Tidbits

So, where's Bob? Where's Al? Where are Phil and Paul? I keep flipping channels thinking I have the wrong one, but they don't seem to be there any more. Is anyone else having Tour Day France withdrawal?!

There certainly isn't any shortage of cycling news, though. It's like silly season in NASCAR when all the teams play musical chairs.

From Team Discovery: Levi Leipheimer is going to join the team next year and Viatchslav "Eki" Ekimov is going to retire and become part of the team management. Can't comment on the Levi deal, but I have to say that I wondered if Eki was retiring when the peloton let him go ahead for a few minutes in Paris on Sunday and he, uncharacteristically, waved to the crowd. He's been an absolute force through a great cycling career, which included 15 Tours de France. Wow.

Rumor has it that the guy who was fired from T-Mobile by fax (that's bad...), Jan Ullrich, may be in talks with Discovery, too. Although, he was in Bonn talking with his current/former team today. Stay tuned on that one...

It's also been rumored that Discovery would like to re-sign the 2006 Tour de France Champion, Floyd Landis. Although, I think I saw somewhere that iShares (Phonak) may have scooped him up for another year.

And a few Tour DAY France tidbits in wrap-up:

Thor Hushovd won bookend stages in Le Tour. That's just cool. Congrats to him.

Classiest moment of the race? Oscar Pereiro giving Floyd Landis a hug after the last time trial, knowing he was giving over the yellow jersey to the man who would win the race. You don't see that in sports too often.

And then there is "Our boy Floyd", as Reva dubbed him the first week of the Tour. I'm still in awe at what he accomplished and how he did it - all with a bum hip. A lot has been said about Floyd's family, where they live and how he grew up this last week but no matter what religion, these are some proud parents, as well they should be. It looks like their son might be rubbing off on them just a little bit, too.

Floyd did a lot for OLN's ratings, too. Viewership jumped 77% on the night Floyd won in the mountains. Um...Wow!

As for Floyd's looming hip surgery and the questions about whether or not he will be able to come back to racing. Here's what Floyd has to say about that:

"I'm looking at this as just another challenge," he said.

"Just like the bad day I had in the mountains.

I see this the same way. If it affects people's

judgment of whether I'll be as valuable later,

they'll have to wait and see. A lot of people

predicted a lot of bad things when I had

the bad day. I would take a lesson

from that if I were them."

After what he accomplished during the last mountain stage, does anyone want to doubt him? No? I didn't think so.

Again, Bravo Floyd. You made the Tour amazing. Thank you.

Lastly, welcome back to Tim and Cubbie. Tim was at his national sales meeting for the end of the Tour and we all missed his comments and insight. He reports that the meeting went well and he's now back. Congrats, Tim. I know you put a lot of work into your presentations. Glad you are back.

Miss Cubbie has returned from France and is sorting through all her photos, getting ready to post them on bobroll.com. I'll let you know when they are up and ready for viewing, but in the mean time she shared her favorite today. Thanks for all the 'inside scoop' texts and photos! Good to have you back, too, Cubbie.

Just some cycling tidbits for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Cheers, Floyd!

(Photo credit FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images)

Bravo, Floyd. Bravo!

The Tour DAY France Arrives in Paris

Who ever would have thought that the Tour Day France would have been so exciting this year?! Everyone wondered if the race would still capture the US cycling fans' attention without Lance. Well, I think Floyd Landis has answered that query very well. I can't imagine that cycling fans everywhere haven't been fascinated with, at least, the last week of le Tour. What Floyd Landis did during this tour was nothing short of amazing. I have to think that the Floyd Landis shirts are flying off the shelves at this point.

It's been a little exta fun for me this year hearing a little bit of the inside scoop from Cubbie reporter and Bob Roll through her. It's her last day in France where she will watch le Tour finish and then, I'm sure, party with the Americans in Paris and then head home to her kids. But, before then, she has one last post from France.

Well, Cubbie's reign is coming to an end. It is the last day and Ihave had a very good time and learned quite a bit.
1. Many of the toilettes (that's French for toilets) have 2 flushoptions. The regular flush and the super flush for those big jobs.
2. Most Belgian beer is good.
3. There are a lot of Americans living in Paris, but not in France.Do the math on that one.
4. TV work is not as glamorous as you think.
5. It's difficult to travel with my husband. We have different travelroutines.
6. I am a little allergic to France. I've had this snatchy littlecough the whole time I was here.
7. George Hincapie is cuter in real life.
8. Floyd is human. A really cool human with super powers.
Thanks for tuning in . . .you guys are the greatest fans ever. Staytuned to bobroll.com for super updates. . .. .xoxoxoxxoCubbie

I'm just watching Floyd lead the peloton on his yellow bike as the race officially starts. It's a great, great day, isn't it?! Will it be his last Tour Day France? We'll have to see. Somehow, I think if anyone can do it, Floyd may be the one to do it. But, today, it's all about getting to the finish line without incident and then celebrating! He has certainly earned one of the biggest celebrations ever!

Just a Parisian tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Cubbie "meets" Our Boy Floyd Landis

Very early this morning I got a phone call that said I had to get to my email and post Cubbie's latest report from France. Since I always listen to Reva, I've posted it below since we know Tim has national sales meetings this week and hasn't been able to post as often as he'd like. This note from Cubbie was just too good not to get up.

FLOYD TALKED TO ME! I'm sitting here answering my 4000 emails on Liggett's computer and I saw a Phonak car with Coachy Coach in it and and and and and and FLOYD IS RIGHT BEHIND HIM ON THE F'ING BIKE and I yell, CONGRATS FLOYD! and he stops and says how cute I look today and how he's heard so much about me and he's glad that I could make it to the Tour this year. . . .ok. Kidding.

He waved and yelled THANKS! We tried to get a picture, but I didn't. My friend Bobby Armstrong (no relation) got one >and PROMISES to send them to me. He's on some world tour and won't be home until August. I'll definately put that out when it comes it. Sweet ass. Wish it were mine.

Life here is good. Lots of traveling. I'm excited for the time trial today. It's going to be a tight squeeze with the time of our train leaving at 6:46 and the Floyd finishing. Donna - call me when we know what Floyd did, will you? Yesterday was hot and we stayed with Righteous Rod in the hottest room in France. It was REALLY uncomfortable, but temporary.

Today it looks as if we are going to see some rain. Not ideal. It won't hurt Floyd, though. He just finished riding the course and loved it so GAME ON.

Hope Tim is ok. I've noticed he hasn't posted. He's having a tough week. Does his company NOT realize this is history in the making? Cubbie's signing off! cr

Thanks for all the great info, Cubbie. I think I can safely say that both Reva and I wish we were with you so we could give Floyd a triple dose of 'congrats' and 'good luck'. However, I think he'll be just fine on his own today.

Allez, Allez Floyd!!!!

Just a little Floyd tidbit from France today. Thanks for stopping by.

Harley Rides

Photo: Galligan Creative

As I mentioned, when you attend a Perewitz Bike Night you never know who is going to show up. Last night, Harley road in. No, not a Harley Davidson - there were many of them. No, Harley, as in the English Bulldog. She road in with her owner lounging on the tank.

Apparently, she's been riding since she was 8 weeks old and 15 pounds; starting in parking lots. She's now 7 1/2 and rides all over the place. She was mellow and great fun to have around and watch ride in with her helmet and goggles. We all hope she comes back for the August Bike Night.

Just a doggie tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Bobke Quote of the Day

Watching today's incredible Tour DAY France stage on OLN. Epic. Simply Epic. Floyd Landis is the MAN. But, I think we all know that by now and won't forget it any time soon, right?

With all the great quotes today, a quote from Bobke jumped out at me that isn't necessarily cycling related - it's life related. It stuck out and made me smile while nodding my head.

"A women's intuition is nearly flawless."

Very true, my friend. Very true.

Update: Did y'all catch on tonight's coverage that OLN left the live feed on when Al announced a commercial? There were some funny, funny bits going on there with Al & Bob.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

True Grit

Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images

Congratulations Floyd Landis!!!!

Floyd looking for a turn around

Cubbie just called in from France. She is sitting next to Robbie Ventura and they are watching the live feed of today's stage. Floyd and a small group have gone out on their own and, currently, have a minute and twenty seconds on the peloton.

We all know that isn't a lot. However, I think it shows that Floyd recovered somewhat last night and is determined to do whatever he can to recover the time lost yesterday. Makes me think of Bob's quote from the other day:

"Sacrifices have to be made to win the Tour. If it means making your men ride on the front until they pass out, well, that is one of the things you have to do. If you aren't unwilling to do that, you don't deserve the yellow jersey."

I don't know if the rest of the team has that mentality because none of them are with him in this little pack, but Floyd certainly does. He's not taking yesterday's setback laying down. He's fighting back. Only time will tell if this will work for a podium finish in France, but I, for one, will be cheering him on this morning!

Allez Floyd!

Just a Tour tidbit. Thanks for stopping by.

Ride To Work Day

Today is the 15th Annual Ride to Work Day where all motorcyclists are encouraged to ride to work. This year probably takes on an added significence with the high gas prices.

I don't know if they planned it this way or not, but custom motorcycle fabricator Dave Perewitz is having a Bike Night tonight at his place in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. What a perfect way to celebrate Ride to Work Day.

When you visit Dave's you never know who you might run into. Last month's Bike Night saw NASCAR driver Jeremy Mayfield hanging out for a little bit while the Discovery Channel was filming for their Biker Build Off series. The bike is done and will be on its way to Sturgis with Dave soon.

Watch for motorcycles. They are everywhere, especially today.

Just a little two-wheel tidbit. Thanks for stopping by.

Cubbie, Bobke, George & the Alps

Cub reporter is back to normal daily posts of le Tour DAY France over on Tim's site. Good to see! In between her posts to Tim she's been texting me all kinds of fun things like this morning's text

"I was just 5ft from GH. Blog that, baby" (GH -George Hincapie)

While she was stalking George, Bob was making good use of his off time in the booth while they weren't filming.

Yes, I asked first before blogging this photo

Just got a call from Cubbie as she was careening down a mountain with Bob at the wheel. There was honking involved. I didn't ask.... She sounds tired but like she is having a blast. Except the fact that she is sad over Floyd's day today. I haven't seen the coverage and don't really think I want to see the bonk happen. It's a part of racing, I know, but it's sad. I'll be watching tonight.

Just a little Tour tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

10 seconds....

Someone looks like the cat that swallowed the canary......

Photo credit: AFP/Franck Fife

.....Literally!

Photo credit: AP Photo/Bas Czerwinski

Congratulations to Floyd Landis on taking back the yellow jersey after today's stage at Alpe d'Huez!!!!

Looking forward to watching the coverage tonight.

Just a mid-day tidbit. Thanks for stopping by.

Bob Roll Climbs Alpe d'Huez!

Rest Day is behind us and today is a big, big day in the Tour DAY France. Alpe d'Huez. Wow. This is a stage I enjoy so much. The paint on the roads. The rabid fans. The sheer determination of the riders. It is amazing to watch it all. I can't wait for this evening's coverage!

If you missed it, Cubbie checked in very early this morning and left a comment. Apparently, she was able to get some time on Phil Ligget's computer and give us a few nuggets from their studio on top of Alpe d'Huez. Yup, I'm still slightly jealous.....

I found this to be quite a tidbit and didn't want you all to miss it:

Bob did it yesterday in

one hour forty five minutes.

Apparently he hasn't ridden it

since he was actually IN the tour.

Yes, "it" would be Alpe d'Huez. So, although the photo Cubbie sent seemed like the day was full of lounging, that wasn't the case. Bob actually road up the famous mountain. Way to go Bobke! Tim, I'd say they earned those empty bottles...at least Bob did.

And, I must say, Allez Floyd!

Just a little Alpe tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Bobke & Al's Rest Day

Cubbie is doing her "job" even without Internet access. Here's a camera phone photo she sent this afternoon. It's a little grainy, but you can see that Bob and Al are having a relaxing evening on the Tour DAY France rest day.

Just a tiny tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Tour DAY France Rest Day?

Yes, the riders have a much deserved rest day before they come back to attack the Alps. However, it isn't a rest day for our Cubbie who hit the ground running yesterday in search of all the latest news and behind the scenes scoop. She just texted me this message:

On my way up to Alp d'huez - tears in my eyes. I'll have Internet tomorrow

Wow. I'm sure she'll have quite the blog post for us over at Masiguy when she gets to the internet tomorrow.

Just a tiny tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

BK/Cub Reporter is in France and Reporting!

Photo credit: PASCAL GUYOT/AFP/Getty Images

What Cubbie and Hubby might be seeing this week.

Yesterday afternoon I got a call from everyone's favorite Tour reporter, Cub Reporter (also known here as BK). She was just checking in one last time, from the airport, before her plane left for France.

She and her trusty traveling companion, her husband Bill, was with her and they were ready for all of their travel. Literally Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Plane to France, train to destination town and cab to hotel.

I'm happy to report that Cubbie and hubby (just came up with that and it is too cute...) are in France watching the Tour DAY France on French television. Although she gathered up a few reports before she left and sent them to Tim, she's fast and furiously writing another one right now as they watch le Tour. The indication I get from the text is that it will be classic Cubbie. You'll want to watch for it over on Tim's blog.

Cubbie will meet up with Bob Roll this evening and I'm sure hijinx will commence. She has told him about all of the questions and, apparently, dares that were forwarded to her courtesy of this blog and their own site. I think Bob is a little in awe and maybe, just maybe, a little fearful since we know that Cubbie is fearless and we may just see her on the mountains painting or on top of one of those straw structures along the side of the road. Mostly, she wants to get something bobroll.com related on television. She will be lobbying for a shirt or a hat or something on Bob during coverage. Do any of us doubt that she will make that happen? Keep watching.

Just got another text from Cubbie as I type. "We're in the hotel sitting room watching let tour in French. Charming. I'm gonna go get a shower SOON. France is sticky". Ok...she's got travel fatigue and needs a shower after traveling for hours and hours. But, it's 'charming'. I'm slightly jealous. Ok, maybe more than 'slightly'.

I asked if the French coverage has a Phil - you know the excitable kind of announcer. She says "Yeah. He gets all excited. It's great. They have an Al, too. Sounds just like Al's voice in French."

As for le Tour itself. I was disappointed to see Floyd out of the yellow after yesterday. Tim thinks that Phonak was smart.

"However, given the circumstances,

I think Floyd was imminently smarter

than most people assume; the pressure

to defend is now shifted to another team,

leaving Phonak with a few days to simply rest

until arriving at the really hard stages in the Alps."

Bob thinks that Floyd is strong but that his team doesn't have what it takes to get him in yellow again for Paris.

"Sacrifices have to be made to win the Tour.

If it means making your men

ride on the front until they pass out, well,

that is one of the things you have to do.

If you aren't unwilling to do that,

you don't deserve the yellow jersey."

I disagree with both of them. Eek! Did I say that out loud?

I don't think Phonak was smart letting those guys get such a lead on them so that they lost the yellow jersey. Who am I, right? But couldn't they have worked a little harder to keep the 8 second lead? I'm not talking chase them down like dogs and put in all that effort since they have a long way to go before Paris, but I don't think I'd want to give up the yellow jersey, even with the pressures that come with it. Who knows if you can ever get it back? Stuff happens. We've all seen it happen. Flats. Bonking. Crashes. All take time away from you. Giving someone over a minute. I just wouldn't want that to happen. But, that's just me and I'm not sweating my butt off over there either. Nor do I have mountains to climb in a couple of days.

I think that both Floyd and his team are strong and, if they put their collective efforts together they will be just fine and all riding yellow bikes in Paris. Floyd is, obviously, the toughest one on that team. But, I think his guys will rise to tho ccasionon. Hopefully, there won't be any bad 'stuff' to happen and they will rock in the Alps. After all, we all know Floyd kicks in the mountains - but he will need his team to lead him up for part of it so he can really shine.

I'm still confident in Team Phonak with Floyd at the helm. No worries.

Just Tour DAY France tidbits for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Brand New Shiny Yellow Bike

Photo credit: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images

Look who got a much deserved new yellow bike! Our boy Floyd looks good in yellow, don't cha think?

Photo credit: AP Photo/Alessandro Trovati

Just a colorful tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

A Man and His Lion

CONGRATULATIONS FLOYD!

Photo credit: AFP

Destroyed hip, no pain meds and he's in the yellow jersey? Robin Williams had no idea how right he was when he dubbed Floyd Landis the MoFo of the Mountains. Wow. I can't wait to watch the coverage tonight.

Enjoy that lion, Mr. Landis. You have earned it.

A great American tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

NASCAR Tidbits

Just a few NASCAR pieces that I picked up along the way today.

Not only is Juan Pablo Montoya moving to NASCAR in 2007, but he and his F1 team have parted ways effective immediately. Might he start practicing in a Busch Series car soon? I would bet so.

The USAToday had a great article about NASCAR drivers in ads. They are entertaining and crossing over to be placed during other shows rather than just during NASCAR races. They are also finding that people aren't clicking off the commercials so much when it's humorous and includes a NASCAR driver. When you click to the article you can view commercials by Jeremy Mayfield, Tony Stewart, Dale Jarrett and Daryl Waltrip. They are only a few of the drivers that have commercials - just off the top of my head I can think of Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (and his dad, still!), Jeff Gordon, Kasey Kahne, Mikey Waltrip, Denny Hamlin and I could go on, but I think you get the point. Companies are spending tons of money to attach themselves to NASCAR and their drivers.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Cub Reporter off to Tour Day France

Well, the Cub Reporter, known to all of you as BK and to me as Cubbie, is headed off to the Tour Day France on Friday. She'll meet up with her business partner, and our favorite commentator, Bob Roll, so you know she'll have some serious access to all of the behind the scenes things at Le Tour.

Cubbie promises to be in contact with both Tim and myself while she is away via email and text. Since she is the 'Cub Reporter', let's give her some assignments. What do you want to know about Le Tour that you think Bob, Al, Paul and Phil won't tell you on air? Remember, this is a family show....but things you might not see. I have a couple of examples:

- On the mountains stages the roads are painted all over the place. I love this aspect of le Tour! How do you stake out your piece of the tarmac? Do any disagreements ever happen? I mean, really...you are minding your own business painting "Allez Floyd" in green on the road and someone is writing "George Kicks Butt" around you and miscalculates the space needed and needs part of your space. Hey, I wouldn't give up my Floyd space....so what happens? How does it all fit? These are the things OLN isn't going to report on. Might seem mundane, but, hey, I want to know.

- We know that Bob and Al and then Phil and Paul are in separate spaces during le Tour so they can have different coverage, but are they next to each other? Where are they? Can they see each other? Make faces at each other off camera? Inquiring minds want to know.

I'm sure I will come up with a few more, but what do you want to know? Write your questions (within reason, remember, family show....) here and we'll see if Cubbie can answer a few while she's over there. Get them in the comment section by Thursday night so she can see them before she leaves on a jet plane.

Hmmm...didn't ask her about this before I wrote it, but if anyone can get answers, it's Cubbie!

Mountains today. Allez Floyd!!

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Our Boy Floyd

Racing resumes today after a well-deserved rest day at the Tour Day France. I'm very much looking forward to the coverage this evening. I admit that I missed yesterday's recap show, but if you are going to miss one of the shows that's the one to miss, right? Tonight it will be all about Bobke and Al.

Today I will watch with renewed interest in 'Our Boy Floyd' as Reva has started to call him. Not only did I pick him because I like his perspective on life (from what I've read), cycling style and I think he's really stepped it up in the last couple of years but did you all catch the news yesterday about him needing a new hip? He'll have surgery right after le Tour to replace his hip, which has been giving him issues for two years.

"If I hadn't had a bicycle-racing career, I would have had the hip replaced two years ago because I don't really want to deal with the pain," Landis said. "It's bad, it's grinding, it's bone rubbing on bone. Sometimes it's a sharp pain. When I pedal and walk, it comes and goes, but mostly it's an ache, like an arthritis pain. It aches down my leg into my knee. The morning is the best time, it doesn't hurt too much. But when I walk it hurts, when I ride it hurts. Most of the time it doesn't keep me awake, but there are nights that it does."

I'm sorry, two years and he's climbing hills like a billy goat still? Woa. Floyd, I don't know if you are just tough as nails or if you are crazy - maybe a little bit of both - but you have my positive energy and thoughts. Allez Floyd! Go get 'em!

Just a small tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Iceman, Ironhead and now...Destroyer

Here's something fun for a change. If you are a race car driver in your heart, or if the local police consider you to be excessively speedy and don't take "I'm qualifying" as an answer to your speeding, Sony Pictures has some fun for you. With the movie Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby hitting movie theatres on August 4, Sony has decided that everyone who is a race car driver, even if only in their own mind, needs a nickname. Go on over and get your racing nickname and then come back here and let me know what it is.

Me? I'm The Destroyer. HA! I like it.

Thanks to "Jessi the Jackhammer" for all the fun!

Just a fun tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Tell Dave Perewitz Your Favorite Motorcycle Color

Master custom motorcycle fabricator Dave Perewitz is filming an episode of Discovery Channel's Biker Build Off. This is the second week that the film crew has been at Dave's shop and they are getting ready to paint the bike. They are letting you help decide what color to paint it, too!

Go to their site and vote in the drop down box. You don't need to enter your name, where you live or any other personal information, which is very refreshing. Just click on the color you like. I'd like to lobby for one color, but I'm sure they have had enough of my votes for one day. Go on over and vote. I'll let y'all know which color won soon.

Just a colorful tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Happy Birthday Tai Shan

(AP Photo/Leslie E. Kossoff)
From Boston.com:
"Tai Shan, right, and his mother Mei Xiang, take a close look at a frozen treat that was made for him on his first birthday, Sunday, July 9, 2006, in the outdoor panda exhibit at the National Zoo in Washington. The frozen melange was filled with apples, yams, carrots and fruit juices. "

What a great birthday treat for a panda. Here's wishing the little one a happy, healthy, long life.

Just a fun tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Juan Pablo Montoya to bring fans and sponsors to NASCAR

Anyone who saw the coverage of the Formula 1/NASCAR demonstration by Juan Pablo Montoya and Jeff Gordon at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2003 would be surprised by today's news that Montoya is giving up his Formula 1 career to move to the United State's NASCAR. Viewing that coverage you got the distinct impression that Gordon was having way more fun than Montoya. Apparently not.

Photo: Jeff Gordon and Juan Pablo Montoya, Indy 2003 -- photo credit/Autostock

But just why is it such huge news that Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya is joining NASCAR in 2007? Well, there are many reasons, but here are a couple off the top of my head.

Montoya’s Established Fan base
Until not very long ago, all NASCAR drivers came from the South (of the United States, that is). Alan Kulwicki was the first person that I truly noticed in NASCAR that wasn’t from the south – he was from Wisconsin (gasp!). I know there were a few others, including New Englander Ron Bouchard, but Kulwicki went on to be NASCAR champion (1992) so he garnered a little more attention.

Now there are drivers from Indiana, California and even Washington – not to mention Kulwicki’s home state of Wisconsin. There are even crew members from Connecticut – Frank Stoddard comes first to my mind.

However, another country? No way. Juan Pablo Montoya is from Columbia - the country, not the city in South Carolina. NASCAR doesn’t necessarily need more fans, since it is the largest spectator sport in the country, but they do need a more diverse fan base to have continued success. Juan Pablo may very well help to bring that diverse crowd that has been eluding NASCAR. Not that the NASCAR organization hasn’t tried to market to the fastest growing population in the United States, but I’m not sure how quickly it’s catching on. NASCAR’s diversity initiative just got a huge boost with the addition of Montoya to its ranks.

The European motorsports fans have long looked down on NASCAR as ‘roundy-round’ racing and haven’t paid too much attention to the sport. Try catching even the minimum NASCAR coverage in some places in Europe – results – it can’t be done. This is a constant source of frustration for me at the end of each summer when I’m in Germany for a trade show.

However, Montoya has an established fan base in Europe already, not to mention that anyone who has followed Formula 1, regardless of their favorite driver, will be very interested to see how he does in his new venture. The European race fans will be watching February’s Daytona 500. It’s up to NASCAR to keep their interest, but they are getting the chance to be seen by an untapped audience – all courtesy of Chip Ganassi Racing signing Juan Pablo.

Additional Sponsors With more diverse fans come additional sponsors. I’m sure there are companies out there that haven’t been interested in NASCAR in the past, but will be very interested now. NASCAR has the potential to be reaching a much different audience in 2007. Smart companies understand that they need to market to many diverse populations now, within the same country, to continue their success. Some of the marketing folks at these smart companies may just have become NASCAR fans. Believe it or not, there is quite a Formula 1 audience in the US and any racing fan knows of Montoya. Not only does he bring in a diverse audience, he’s talented and respected – two things that make him even more attractive to potential sponsors.

My guess is that Chip Ganassi will not have any trouble finding sponsors for either Montoya’s Busch car or his Nextel Cup car. He already mentioned that Texaco will stay with the car, but they are being a little quiet about that to respect the current relationship Montoya has with Mobil on his F1 car. Add ‘integrity’ to ‘talented and respected’. He’s a marketers’ dream!

Yes, I welcome the addition of Juan Pablo to the talented drivers already on the circuit, but NASCAR should be bending over backwards to make him feel welcome and appreciated before he even takes one turn on the track.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Montoya to NASCAR in 2007

BREAKING NEWS --- BREAKING NEWS Chip Ganassi is in the process of announcing that his 'new' driver for the 2007 NASCAR season is going to be Juan Pablo Montoya of Formula 1 fame. Wow! That's huge. This is not a new driver - Montoya is a seasoned, great driver.

A year or so ago, Montoya and Jeff Gordon did a press event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway where Jeff drove Montoya's F1 car and Montoya drive the Dupont Chevy so he's had a little time behind the wheel of a much different car than his F1 car. He admits it is going to take time for him to get the hang of this. But, don't bet that it will take him long. He's a great racing talent. A true racer can adapt to any car with little time.

Wow. This is huge, huge news. 2007 is going to be a heck of a year in NASCAR, not like this year isn't...it's always great! Welcome to NASCAR Juan Pablo! See you on the starting line in Daytona in February!

Just a speedy tidit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

A Tour Birthday

Hey folks - according to the Cub Reporter, known to folks here as BK, it's Bobke's birthday today. Go on over to his website and leave a little message in his guest book. BK will make sure he gets them all.

Now, I seem to remember that if your birthday falls during the Tour day France that you are presented with your weight in champagne as Victor Hugo Pena was in 2003. That's a cool tradition. I wonder if they'll do that for Bob this year - they should, right? Then again Pena was in the yellow jersey - maybe that is the catch since there is probably more than one birthday during Le Tour and they'd go broke with all the champagne they'd have to buy.

However, I'm sure Bob could find a yellow shirt to wear under his blazer today. That should count, right? Go get that champagne, Bob! Wishing you a wonderful birthday, my friend.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Tour Time Trial

I must admit that, not being a cycling 'geek', I've had a hard time following Le Tour this week. For one thing, the flat stages haven't ever been my favorites; I'm a mountain person myself. I love the whole energy of the mountains with the painted roads, fanatical fans and sheer tactics from the riders. It's magical. Flats? Not so much.

For another, I know the top names (Basso, Ullrich, Vino etc.) in cycling but not the 'second tier', if you will, or the up-and-comers, of talent. After a week ago, many of those names have not been on the roads. I've had to learn new names and follow more closely. It's been less than fun.

With the time trial coming up, I thought I'd miss it. After all, the time trials in the last few years have been dramatic and exciting wondering who would take it...Lance? Jan? Tyler? Would they make up precious seconds or even a minute if something happened to their rival? Who would have the power that particular day? Exciting. This year...well, no Tyler for a year now and no Lance we knew, but no Jan...no Basso. Who will be the front runners? Will there be a close rivalry?

How would the time trial hold my interest? Well, tonight was my answer. Bob Roll. He is on fire tonight. Did y'all hear his explanation about why, when you are in the peloton, you don't pay attention to what is going on with the spectators? It was priceless! And it hasn't stopped there - how to keep your attention during a long day in the saddle? Hire him for 8 hours of laughs in the peloton. HA! He and Al Trautwig are really good with their banter, too. I'll be watching every night because Bob entertains and educates those of us that aren't cycling 'geeks' (and I say that with all affection).

Oh, and does anyone think that Robbie Ventura has spent a lot of time with Bob Roll? He's got the hands going during his segments like a pro!

Hey Tim Jackson, MasiGuy - you are great at your recaps of each stage...if you have time, maybe you can do a preview of the time trial for those of us who need to understand who the new 'big boys' are this year for the time trial. And, what is your thought as to why they got rid of the team time trial? Lance had his opinion tonight, but what is yours?

Just my own cycling tidbits. Thanks for stopping by.

Clean Riders Sent Home from Tour Day France??

From ProCycling.com's article about the doctor named in the Operacion Puerto scandal that has rocked pro-cycling:

“I’m angry about the whole matter. Names have appeared of people that I don’t even know and there are others that haven’t come out and I’ve no idea why, but my professional oath forbids me from revealing their names,” (Eufemiano)Fuentes declared. “Treatment only for cyclists? I’m also indignant about that. I’ve worked with other sports, like athletics, tennis and football. There are a lot of names that haven’t come out, there have been only selective leaks. I don’t know why… There are still riders in the Tour de France who I have treated.”

I'm sorry...what?! There are people on the list that were possibly sent home from the Tour Day France that he doesn't know? And others that he does but that are still riding?

I'm thinking that the folks who follow cycling are pretty jaded right now and many think that 'everyone' is doping. Or, at least, everyone that this doctor treated doped or jacked up their blood or whatever it is he allegedly helped them with. However, imagine for one minute.....what if he is telling the truth and there are innocent people on that list? What if that innocent person was sent home from the Tour? Ugh, that is just awful.

I don't have the answers. I don't know who did or didn't cheat. I won't even profess to have an opinion on that one. However, the way this issue is being handled has ramifications for the athletes, their sponsors, event organizers, hotels, transportation companies, fans...and the list goes on and on. If they sent innocent guys home because of something that wasn't true....wow. I feel badly for everyone - including the team of law enforcement investigators that needs to weed through all of this information, sort it out and get to the bottom of the issues at hand.

Clearly, this is a flawed system that is showing its cracks at every turn.

Just a discouraging tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Happy 4th of July Aerosmith-Style

Photo Credit -- Gary Higgins/The Patriot Ledger

Boston is getting ready to rock the 4th of July like no other year. The Boston Pops, conducted by Keith Lockhart, will be joined by Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith (above at rehearsal last night).

Wishing you all a wonderful 4th of July evening!

Update: As you'd expect, the "Bad Boys of Boston" rocked the city last night. The Boston Globe's Richard Dyer says of Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, "But the crowd of 500,000 and the national television audience got three songs and just over eight minutes from them. The two men put out more energy than some performers deliver in an entire show...."

Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, July 4, 2006/Photo Credit: William Moore/Boston Globe

Tour Day France Rolls On

You can follow live coverage of Tour Day France stages here or get great recaps here so I won't even attempt either. However, here are just a few things I've noticed at Le Tour in the last couple of days:

- Wondering why Bob Roll is wearing not one,but two, LiveStrong bands? You can find that answer from his business partner here.

- Not one, not two, but three broken collarbones today? Ouch! That was tough to see.

- Whenever they mention the "Big Boys" in the commentary, I find myself looking for Jan Ullrich and Ivan Basso in the peloton. Anyone else still doing that? Guess it is going to take me a couple more days to get used to Le Tour without them.

- Ever wondered why, exactly, Bob Roll calls it the 'Tour Day France'? It's a great reason that you can find in the Blogke. He cracks me up.

- How about Thor Hushovd!? He's gets the award for toughest rider so far. The blood loss alone made him weak after a hot day in the saddle. To get up and do it again the next day... Bravo to him.

- The heat today amazed me. 99 degrees in the air with tarmac temps of 122 degrees. Ugh. I don't know how the riders and spectators do it. These riders are incredible athletes for sure. I wouldn't make it 2 miles in that.

Looking forward to see the drama unfold tomorrow. Let's hope all of the riders make it to the finish without mishap.

Just a few small tidbits for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Tony Stewart Creates Brand-Loyal Fans in Daytona

A few weeks back Michael Wagner had an interesting post about a brand-loyal, rabid fans - the one-percenters. This is part of that post:

"What makes them love your brand? What makes them “talk up” your brand? What makes them tattoo your brand on their arm, proudly wear your logo on the gear you sell them, or put your slogans on their car bumper? Their enthusiasm powers conversations and widespread interaction with both your current customers and others not yet convinced. They are alive to your brand and often contagious."

Last night NASCAR driver Tony Stewart took those questions to heart and created a whole bunch of new one-percenters after his win at the Pepsi 400 at Daytona. About a year ago any time Tony won a race he brought his car not to victory lane but to the start/finish line, got out and climbed the fence to be right there with the fans. After a couple of climbs he started to get into the flag man's perch and take the flag. Fans loved it.

Last night he took it to a whole new level. Not only did he climb the fence a mere few weeks after breaking a bone in his shoulder, he got the checkered flag and then climbed down into the crowd! In an interview afterwards, when he got to victory lane, he said that people really enjoyed that no matter what shirt or hat they had on (representing their favorite drivers that may not have been Tony). He was high-fiving people, jumping around and, in general, just celebrating with hundreds of excited fans. He didn't seem to be in a rush to leave either, only going when his crew came to the other side of the fence and created a path for him to get back to the car to take it to victory lane.

"What makes them (1%ers) love your brand"? I think Tony Stewart has that answer - at least he's got part of it. Those folks will be talking about their 'time with Tony' and showing their camera phone photos to people for weeks. Not only that, I'll bet that more than a few of them bought some Tony Stewart/Home Depot Team merchandise on their way out of the track last night.

Congratulations to the whole Home Depot team on their win last night, and on creating some new 'rabid' fans.

Just a non-cycling tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Bob Roll Commercials & New Pick

Well, with all the craziness that went on at the Tour Day France yesterday, I needed something a little light. Bob Roll's partner, Jessi (known to readers of this blog as BK), came through by pointing me to the three new Trek commercials staring our favorite commentator, Bob "Tour DAY France" Roll. You can view them here. They are for Trek's game "Trek Mania" which you can enter at Trek's site. They are vintage Bob Roll. I think you'll like them. If I had to pick one as a favorite, I'd say the 'disguises' one, but they all crack me up. Thanks for the comic relief that was much needed yesterday, Jessi.

So, since my pick for Le Tour was Ivan Basso and he woke up at home today, I'll pick again. It's not a hard choice since I really would like to see him win - Floyd Landis. Seems like a good guy, has a sense of humor and always keeps things in perspective. Allez Floyd!

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Tour de France Ugliness

I could not believe my eyes this morning when I read this headline in the USA Today , "T-Mobile Suspends Ullrich for Tour". So I went to cyclingnews.com and the news got worse, "More riders suspended: Basso and Mancebo out"

In the last couple of years I have learned not to jump to conclusions regarding the athletes in these doping 'scandals' so I will not focus on that here. As a former event organizer and someone who is in the position to support and sponsor events I can say that the news could not be worse for tour organizers and sponsors the day before the big event.

I'm not particularly fond of the Tour organizer, especially after I read this comment about Lance Armstrong in the USAToday yesterday.

"For the riders of the Tour de France, the month of July 2006 should be something like the 14th of July was in 1789 for the prisoners of the Bastille: a time of newfound liberty ... after seven years of domination and sometimes oppression," race director Jean-Marie Leblanc says.

That pretty much says a lot for his character. However, there are more people than just him that are effected by today's news.

Organizers. Hundreds of organizers around the country and thousands of volunteers, I'm sure, will be in hectic, panic mode for weeks. This is a very, very dark day for all of them. Your biggest stars are OUT of your event. Possibly whole teams. This throws off your entire game-plan for three weeks. Think about that. They are normally in scramble mode for three weeks, but this will be like anything they have experienced before.

Sponsors. Wow. Entire marketing campaigns out the window. T-Mobile have placed much time, effort and money into their campaigns with Jan Ullrich, especially during the summer months, for years. I'm sure they had some great things planned for this July, too. As did his other sponsors and Basso's sponsors.

I'm not just talking advertising either. Sponsors will have made plans to fly in for portions of the race, some for the whole race. They will have set up receptions with athletes and customers, dinners and viewing spots. Yes, if you are a sponsor your customers will be effected by all of this, too. Some customers may have made their whole summer plans around a trip to Le Tour only to have their excitement dashed. There will be some backlash there, too.

Media. There are television stations and networks all around the world that have marketed this event for months and sold advertising dollars to companies that expect millions to be watching. Will they watch now? For those of you in the US - think about this. People have speculated that OLN might not cover Le Tour without Lance. They did this year. If viewership isn't up will they cut out their cycling coverage all together in '07?

The fans. Event organizers are now hoping that the race can be as popular without the marquee names this year to draw in the crowds. People plan their whole summer vacations around the Tour - traveling from stage to stage to cheer on their favorite rider. The disappointment will be monumental for them.

Well, folks, there is still one very good reason to watch the Tour DAY France in the States on OLN. Bob Roll. His partner, Jessi, says that he did get to France and is ready to go. It will be interesting to hear his take on all of this tomorrow.

This is truly a dark day in the sport of cycling. My heart goes out to all involved.

Just a yucky tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

LiveStrong Collection by Chantal

If anyone thought that Lance Armstrong would fade away into the sunset after his retirement from competitive cycling, they were seriously wrong as this USAToday article details. He's been spending much time with his foundation. The Lance Armstrong Foundation was thriving a few years ago when they came out with a unique fundraising item that caught on and became not only a symbol of living life with strength, but became a huge fashion statement globally. The LiveStrong bracelet has sold bazillions worldwide and are still selling today.

The LAF has been at the forefront of finding unique partners to spread its word and raise money for their very worthwhile organization. There is even a LiveStrong Portfolio from American Century Investments. Organizations have realized that this charity organization isn't just something this 'bike racer' started to fulfill his own needs, but that it is quickly becoming one of the powerhouse charities in the country with one heck of a motivator behind them. Lance can open, and does open, doors that many other charities can't to get his message across to lawmakers and large potential donors.

This week I saw another interesting pairing from the LAF - the LiveStrong Collection by Chantal Cookware. How did they become involved with the foundation? The founder and CEO is a cancer survivor and obviously a smart woman.

I have to say that I think a few pieces are kind of nice. With between 5% and 10% going to charity I might have to take a closer look this weekend. The yellow teapot would match my kitchen nicely.

Just a yellow tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Floyd Landis Eats (gasp!)

With some great banter going on about the Tour Day France here, I thought you all might appreciate this quote from the latest issue of Bicycling Magazine. In this sport where you hear about the top athletes measuring their food and obsessing about weight, this top contender is a little more casual about all of that. Hasn't seemed to slow him down any either!

"I don't count calories or weigh my food. I eat my food.

Yes, I eat hamburgers. I probably eat a more

"normal" diet than most cyclists"

--Floyd Landis

Just a little Tour tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Bob Roll off to Tour DAY France...or is he?

Saturday is the start of the best known bicycle race in the world, the Tour de France. This three week event starts with the prologue in Strasbourg and ends on July 23 on the Champs Elysees. In between, the 2006 champion will rise to the top and everyone can finally stop speculating about who will succeed 7-time winner Lance Armstrong.

The event is a grueling one as anyone who has ever watched it can tell you, never mind those that have actually competed in the craziness. The Tour de France blog has this quote about the Tour DAY France from Bob Roll that I just loved - it's a great visual.

"It's basically a penitentiary," says Bob Roll, a former Tour rider and an anchor

for OLN TV. "You've got your walking boss, you've got that sneaky little

bastard who was in "The Longest Yard," you have the honorable

veterans, and then the guys who are just doing time,

which is most of them. Nobody wants to be anybody's boy,

but sometimes you have no choice."

It is comments like this that make me tune in every night for the re-televised OLN coverage when I've already listened to the stage on the computer live. Bob is priceless.

I thought I could report that he was on his way to France this evening, but I hear that there was an airline snafu and Bob is still at home. I'm sure they will have it all sorted out in the morning and he'll be in Strasbourg in plenty of time to report on all the great tidbits from the peloton.

Bob did tell me who his pick is a couple of weeks ago, but I'll let him tell you all during the OLN coverage this weekend. I wouldn't want to spoil the fun! Maybe he'll change his mind after being over there and getting the latest scoop, I don't know.

This Tour will be an interesting one without Lance, that's for sure. Joe Lindsey from Bicycling has an interesting take on the teams in his Boulder Report titled, "Tour de Springfield". It's an entertaining read. During Le Tour my friend Tim Jackson has vowed to do his famous Tour commentating from where he sits in Cali. It was a huge hit last year; I'm sure this year he will be equally as insightful.

Since we are close to the prologue it's time to make my prediction - after all, that's half the fun, right? I'm sticking with my original pick - Ivan Basso. 3rd two years ago, 2nd last year...well, it just feels right for the top spot on the podium this year. Although I won't tell you Bob's pick, I can say that we don't agree here. Then again, he knows a heck of a lot more than I do about all of this! I'm just going to sit back watch some great athletic achievements and listen to the great commentary.

So....who is your pick?

Just a little cycling tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Earnhardts on Father's Day

Budweiser rolled out a new commercial last Sunday during the NASCAR race coverage from Michigan. Budweiser traditionally has some cleaver and/or cute commercials for special events such as the Superbowl and the holidays. They've done it again. This commercial aired for the first time on Father's Day and featured three generations of Earnhardts - Ralph, Dale, Sr., and Dale, Jr. with the tag "Times may change; tradition rolls on".

This is brilliant marketing - three generations of one of the biggest family names in NASCAR showcased on Father's Day during the NASCAR race. The commercial isn't focused on their products, but on the emotions of NASCAR fans, which is highly effective. It is quite a nice piece and perfectly placed.

Nicely done, Budweiser.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Happy Summer!

Today's the first day of summer. Enjoy!

Thanks for stopping by.

Father's Day, NASCAR style

Thanks to the generosity of Dave Perewitz, I'm off to give my dad one of the most unique Father's Day presents ever. As I mentioned back in February Kory Souza and Jody Perewitz put on MS4MS as a fundraiser for the National MS Society. They had a silent auction at the event where Dave donated this piece of Jeremy Mayfield's NASCAR NEXTEL Cup race car. When he walked in with it, I set my sights on it and started bidding. It was a complete win-win situation at the end of the day - I had a unique gift and the National MS Society had more funds for their important programs.

As you can see, this isn't a small piece of metal; it's the better portion of one side of the car Jeremy ran at Richmond International Raceway on September 10, 2005 where he was 6th. For those of you new to NASCAR, the green arrow indicates to the jack man (Ed Watkins) where to put the jack during pit stops. The yellow on the left? That's where someone rubbed their wheel against him during the race. The yellow comes from the Goodyear logo on the tires. Goodyear on your car would be in white, but on the race cars it is yellow so the photographers pick it up better during a race. Smart marketing department at work there.

Thanks to Jeremy for giving the car piece to Dave and thanks to Dave for donating it to the auction!

Happy Father's Day, Dad!

Here's wishing all you dads a relaxing day! Thanks for stopping by.

Boston Herald's Inside Track

As I've mentioned, I'm helping out the Falmouth Road Race again this year. Every summer for the last 15 years or so I've counted the summer days until road race weekend. It's a great time to catch up with friends you, regrettably, only see once a year. Friends that live down the road, friends that live across the country and friends that live around the world. It's a great event and the best 'work' there is (having fun on the beach....is that really work?).

This week we sent out some fun news about Heidi Bruschi, Dawn Timlin and Kathryn Nixon running the race to raise awareness for charities near and dear to their hearts; Tedy's Team and Babes Bookin It. For some of you those names won't mean much, but to Boston sports fans they mean a whole heck of a lot.

Two ladies that understand the power behind these names are Gayle Fee and Laura Rapoza of the Boston Herald. They write a six-times a week section of the paper called the Inside Track. If you want to know what is going on in Boston and the surrounding areas you must read "The Track". I have read it every single day for more years than I can count and have often wished it was 7 days a week - I miss it on Saturdays but they make up for it with a huge piece every Sunday. I've learned some very interesting things via these ladies over the years.

Today, I'm happy to say, they covered Falmouth's news! Thank you, Gayle and Laura, for not only mentioning Falmouth, but giving these very deserving charities a well-deserved plug! I'm sure they appreciate it as much as we do. Can't wait to see what you have in store for Sunday's section!

Just a tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Bank of America, Google & Timberland Programs

This makes me want to work for one of these progressive companies! Buy a hybrid car and get money from your employeer. It's a win-win situation for everyone, including the environment!

Bravo!

Just a tiny tidbit. Thanks for stopping by.

Mobil on the Run? Not So Much

The other day I was a little late and in a hurry when I stopped for gas at the local Mobil station because it was most convenient. I noticed it was a few cents more expensive than the place I usually go, but that was about a half mile out of my way and, well, I was late.

At the pump the computerized screen reads, "Insert card or begin pumping now". Great. I have cash so I lift the lever and try to pump the gas. Nothing. After fiddling with the pump, I run into the cashier (in the rain, by the way). So far, I'm still ok with Mobil but the cashier did two things that made me think I would not go back for a long time. It also made me think that their marketing department doesn't have a clue that 'on the run' doesn't mean much to those that are expected to implement the slogan.

First, I mentioned to the cashier (nicely, actually) that the pump said one thing, but clearly you need to do a different thing and maybe someone would want to look into changing that. He replied, "I was in the back so I didn't see you". Ok.... When I repeated what I said (admittedly a little more sternly) he replied, "Oh, I don't have anything to do with that". Clearly.

Secondly, when he asked how much I wanted I mentioned that I was going to fill it so I didn't know. He stared at me. So, I gave him a $20 and said that it would be more certainly be than that in the end. Back out in the rain I go and pump the gas and the pump shuts off at $20. Now, maybe their policy is that you need to pay up front and come in for any change. Fine. Tell me that! I was so disgusted, I got in my car and left.

All I kept thinking as the gas was pumping is, "This is clearly not 'on the run' at all!"

Tonight I went to my normal gas station, the local Exxon station. I got out to pump, noticing that the computerized screen says 'insert card now'. Right next to it is a good sized sticker with printed red letters that says something to the effect of 'cash customers kindly pay inside before pumping'. I felt much better because my first impression of the company is that they are trying to help me navigate the buying process.

Someone at Exxon understands that customer service may begin without a personal interaction at all. My initial impressions of these two companies formed as I read their pumps. When we are all paying an arm, leg and first born for gas these days we should at least be treated kindly. If 'kindly' is too much to ask then certainly with some forethought to our questions and needs.

Having a slogan is one thing. But it is only half the battle. Having buy-in from everyone that works for the company is another thing entirely. Smaller companies have an advantage there. Getting 25 people to live a tag line or slogan is much easier than asking tens of thousands of employees to do the same. It's a challenge, but one that marketing departments need to be very aware of, especially with consumers having so many choices for just about everything these days from the way they get their news to where they buy their gas and even where they buy their pet food.

For me, these two experiences have left me knowing that Exxon is a little more ahead of the game and, clearly, understand that time is of the essence. Not to mention, around here, they are less expensive. That, too, goes a long way!

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

"Congress Votes to Raise Its Pay"

That is the headline I saw this afternoon.

Is that really news that surprises anyone? Did you seriously think they wouldn't? If your department sat down and discussed that everyone would get a raise in the deparment if they all voted for it and not against it do you really think anyone would vote 'no'? Seriously.

Do I think they deserve it? Well, that's another issue all together.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Life on Display at Proof on Main

It is said that blogging is about transparency. Well this 'actress' takes transparency to a whole new level. Lauren Argo is, literally, putting her life on display in Lexington, Kentucky. The ultimate transparency, I guess. From June 4-10, she's living in the window of the restaurant Proof on Main. Yes, there is a camera on all the time and you can view that here.

A small tidbit for this rainy (what else is new?!) New England morning. Thanks for stopping by.

Stonyfield Farm - Test Your Farm Smarts

I really enjoy Stonyfield Farm yogurt; have one just about every day. They are one of the few yogurts that does not incorporate gelatin, which is key for me. Not to mention, their chocolate yogurt mixed with fresh strawberries is pretty darn tasty! They have an interactive website with good facts and fun things and even have two blogs - Baby Babble and The Bovine Bugle.

However, in their quest to keep a consistent look to their brand some people may miss their latest promotion. Their single serving yogurt containers have the base colors of blue, pale yellow and white. It's their brand colors. No matter what flavor they have a consistent look for the family. When they are stocked properly they look great.

The promotion, "Test Your Farm Smarts" is being advertised on the cover/lid to the yogurt. Great place to put it. However, the base colors are...you guessed it, blue, pale yellow and white. To someone not paying too much attention when they are ripping off the lid, it might all blend in and be missed because it looks like part of the rest of the container.

A promotion like this is great - you can win a weekend get-away for 4 to a working farm bed & breakfast; who wouldn't like that? It should be seen as something different, because it is, not just blended in with the "same 'ole, same 'ole" of the container. This is not a time to keep the brand identity, you have that on the container itself. Let your promotion 'shout' at the person opening the container so they stop for a moment and read the few lines of copy. Toss in some purple around the edges rather than blue. Don't like purple? How about some red? Green? Any of them would work and not hurt the brand identity because, as I mentioned, that's on the container.

Note: Unfortunately, although the lid sends you to their website, the link for the "Test Your Farm Smarts" promotion isn't working right now. Bummer. I wanted to try it out. I'm sure it will be fixed soon (we all know about computer glitches!) and I'll point to it then.

Update: The link is now working for the Test Your Farm Smarts promotion. Check it out. It actually was up at the end of last week, but Blogger was acting up. Ah, computers....

Just a small tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Boston Media Catching Up & Running Ahead of the Times

It seems as though the media in Boston are turning more and more to new technological mediums to get the news across. Before long you will be able to catch the news whenever you want it, where you want it and how you want it.

Some of the outlets are finding that adding this option for their audience isn't as expensive as they might have once thought and it is gaining them viewers; if you can call them viewers...not sure as they may just be listening. Let's just say 'audience'.

We are certainly becoming more and more of a demanding society, aren't we? Sure, I like my On Demand as much as the next person (more even, if I've missed a Sopranos episode!). But what is this saying about us as a society? We are increasingly becoming a people who say, "I want it over here not there; I want it now, not in 10 minutes and I don't want it tomorrow, I want it now".

What is that teaching the next generation? I, personally, think there will be a lot of impatient people running around, especially if they don't get x, y or z in 1 minute or less. Maybe a lot of angry people, too, if they don't get their way right now! That is not a good thing. Yes, technology is good. Advances are good. But, sometimes slowing down and taking a breather or feeling anticipation for something is the best thing. You know...'good things come to those who wait' and all that.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Singletrack Celebrates #5/Armstrong & Andretti at Indy

To say I've been a little lax here is an understatement. Sometimes life just gets in the way of blogging. That, and truth be told, when the nice weather finally hit this weekend I took some time to read a book on the porch. Not a great book, but still...outside, reading a book. Anyone who lives in New England knows that this might not be possible until at least mid-June some years due to cold weather (or snow), but warm temps arrived this weekend. Woo-hoo!

Here are a couple of things I've noticed in the last few days, though:

Chipps and team over at Singletrack are celebrating the magazine's 5th year. Congrats to them!!! It seems like only last year I was not-so-patiently waiting for the next issue to arrive in the post (anyone who knows me knows patience isn't my strongest suit). Now they come regularly and have some of the best photography anywhere. I look forward to every single issue. If you are a cyclist, or if you just enjoy breath-taking photography, you need to pick up an issue. I know in the US they are carried at Barnes & Noble so issues are easy to find now.

The Singletrack crew is celebrating in multi-media style. Carlton over at BikeBiz.com is reporting that now, not only can you listen to Singletrack podcasts, you can advertise on them as well. And, if that isn't enough, they have started a blog! Check it out at http://blog.singletrackworld.com They always have something fun going on over there. Happy 5th Anniversary Singletrack! (note: blogger is acting up and I can't hyperlink in a normal way to this link...grrrr)

Lance Armstrong drove the pace car at the Indianapolis 500. LiveStrong shirt and all. That had to have been fun. But 19-year old Marco Andretti nearly stole the show from everyone. The Andretti legacy lives on in that talented kid.

Just some cycling related tidbits for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Title Sponsor Drops Liberty Seguros Cycling Team

One has to think that the marketing folks at Liberty Mutual and their Spanish branch, Liberty Seguros, are anticipating the weekend more than anyone else. They've had one tough week; I don't envy their marketing decision makers at all.

Liberty Seguros is the title sponsor of one of the top pro cycling teams in Europe. With Alexander Vinokourov on the team they were a contender for a top spot at Le Tour de France this July. However, yesterday their team director was arrested as part of a blood doping investigation. This has, undoubtedly, shaken the team (which is currently participating in the Giro d'Italia). However, today the title sponsor has ceased their sponsorship effective immediately. This is a huge blow to the team on many levels.

It is also a huge blow to the folks at Liberty. Procycling.com reports that the Boston, Massachusetts-based insurance company made its decision based on a zero tolerance policy towards doping.

Imagine what it was like at Liberty Mutual/Liberty Seguros yesterday and today. This was a very tough decision they had to make. I'm sure they had internal and external advertising and marketing campaigns all lined up and ready to go for the team's involvement in Le Tour de France. All of that has to be scraped now and they need to scramble to find a new direction quickly.

The weekend can not come soon enough for their marketing department. I wish them all a restful weekend because come next week, it's scramble mode.

Just a cycling tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

New Bill Passes 349-24

This seems to be at the top of the news right now, "Bill Includes Pets in Disaster Planning".

"The bill, which passed 349-24, requires that state and local preparedness offices take into account pet owners, household pets and service animals when drawing up evacuation plans. Offices that fail to do so would not qualify for grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency".

Um...no-brainer!

I am with the, "49 percent of adults say they would refuse to evacuate if they couldn't take their pets with them". I wouldn't go anywhere without the dog.

Just a little tidbit. Thanks for stopping by.

Bob Roll revamps website

If you've tried to find Bob Roll's site lately you know it was down for a little bit. It's back up and better than ever! They completely redesigned it and, yes, really, it is better than ever.

Did you know that from right now (as I type) it is 74 days, 5 hours and 56 minutes until Le Tour? Nope, I didn't either. Just some of the stuff you will learn at the new site. Check it out.

Thanks for stopping by.

May 17 - LiveStrong Day

I got an email today from the Lance Armstrong Foundation announcing that tomorrow, May 17th is LiveStrong Day. This is how the email started:

The Lance Armstrong Foundation will lead a group of advocates

from each state to raise awareness on Capitol Hill

about the issues faced by the 10 million Americans affected by cancer.

Volunteers across the country will also host LIVESTRONG Day

activities in their local communities in support of

people affected by cancer.

This got my attention so I went to their site and found that there is a lot going on on LiveStrong Day all around the country and there are many ways we can be involved. They suggest some, including blogging (which is kind of cool)!

Be a part of LIVESTRONG Day and raise awareness

about cancer survivorship issues by blogging against

cancer on Wednesday, May 17. By blogging on LIVESTRONG Day,

you will be a part of the united voice to speak out on behalf

of the needs and issues of cancer survivors across the country.

Whether you are an advocate in Washington D.C.,

hosting a LIVESTRONG Day event in your local community

or blogging about cancer – every action helps.

Wherever you are, you can do something and make

your voice heard on LIVESTRONG Day.

Why join in? To draw awareness and to support those living with cancer. I would venture to guess that cancer has touched all of our lives. Even if it isn't someone we know, it might be a friend of a friend, but if our friend is touched, so are we. Unfortunately, cancer is all around us.

Having known people who have battled cancer and won (yeah!) and people who fought bravely and lost blogging is my small part to help draw awareness to what they have gone through.

You, too, can join in. Wear Yellow on Wednesday or just visit the site to learn more. Tell a friend. Do a self exam! Join an event in your area. Whatever you choose to do, just pass along the word about cancer awareness. It's simple really. I just did in 10 minutes.

Just a healthy tidbit. Thanks for stopping by.

United Airlines - Customer Satisfaction is in the Little Details

United Airlines just made the lives of all its Mileage Plus members a little easier. When you go to their website to check on your miles you don't have to enter your Mileage Plus number - you just have to enter your email address. Ok, this tells me that you need to have signed up with them prior to this and be getting monthly statements via email, but this is a no-brainer anyway. They come to you, you don't have to go to them unless you want to.

So...no more fumbling for your number and having to input it when you'd like to view any of your Mileage Plus info - just type in your email and password and you are good to go. Something simple, but it means a lot in the craziness of our busy days.

Thanks, United.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Ask Tyler...

Tyler Hamilton was having some website issues, but he's back and better than ever. Not only has he done a new diary post, the first since the verdict in his case didn't go the way he thought, but he's added a new feature to the site, "Ask Tyler". It's not a blog, but you can send in questions and he'll answer them. He's answered some doozies so far. Good for him!

Just a cycling tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Blue Angels - Full Throttle over Atlanta

I've had a fascination with the Navy's Blue Angels since I was a kid. I've seen them numerous times and even had one of their posters in my room for years growing up. Each and every time I see them I'm in awe of the pilots' talent. They are, simply, amazing.

Today my dad forwarded this link to a video piece at the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Staffer Steve Beatty had the privilege to go 'full throttle' with Blue Angel Pilot Lt. Kevin Davis last week. Beatty was filmed the whole time and, to his credit, he shows the good parts and the not so good parts. There are 5 video clips you can choose from. I suggest skipping #2 since it is replayed in #3 with Steve's voice over when he returned to the ground and it's priceless.

Just a fast tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Biggest Little State in the Union

According to this CNN article, Rhode Island wants to become the first state to have a wireless broadband network. Who would have thought it would be Rhode Island? Very cool.

Just a little tidbit for today. Thanks for stopping by.

Hasbro Lets You Help Create New Monopoly

One of my all-time favorite board games is Hasbro's Monopoly. Turns out that they are revamping the traditional game; the new version will be available this fall. The best part? We - you, me, the guy next door - all get to choose the landmarks that go on the new game.

You can vote once a day from now until May 12th. Choose one of 22 cities and then one of 3 landmarks in that city. Here's the good part - you can vote, each day, on one landmark per city so you don't have to choose just one.

The total votes will decide where on the board the landmarks go. Whichever one gets the most votes will go where the rich, blue properties were. Currently, Times Square, New York City is winning with the most votes. Euclid Avenue in Cleveland has the least amount of votes.

It doesn't surprise me that Times Square is the leading vote getter. After all, this promotion is open to people all around the world. The landmark that gets the most votes will be something that everyone knows. Sure they know the White House, which is a choice in DC, but I would think Times Square is more universally known and, let's face it, probably holds more positive thoughts for people around the world right now.

I've placed three votes already for a landmark in Boston, Washington, DC and Nashville. I'll be back tomorrow to vote again. Hasbro even has a place were you can sign up to get the final results sent to you so you don't have to go back for them.

Go see if your city is listed, check out the landmarks, vote for your favorites and have a say in how this game is put together. It's fun!

Nicely done, Hasbro!

Just a tidbit from Park Place today. Thanks for stopping by.