bradrulz

Dropped The Training Wheels! BIG Day!

2011-11-22T23:18:00.001-05:00

PUSH PINK w KEEP A BREAST!

2011-10-07T10:36:00.002-04:00

Trouble viewing this email? Read it online

Hello Friend of Keep A Breast!

Get out your "I Love Boobies" bracelets, because for the month of October, The Keep A Breast
Foundation is teaming up with DonorCircle to be the beneficiary of their PUSH PINK campaign!
Through this partnership, you'll be able to help PUSH the fight against breast cancer while also
earning great prizes like iPads and limited-edition handcrafted art books!

The chance to PUSH PINK and make a difference starts
now. Visit www.pushpink.org to help us PUSH lifesaving
messages to your e-mail contacts, Facebook friends and
Twitter followers. By creating a profile and pushing these
videos every other day during the month of October, you
can protect the people you love and help raise money for
The Keep A Breast Foundation! Visit www.pushpink.org to see exclusive videos from DonorCircle and original content from Keep A
Breast. Also, you'll learn how you can help raise funds for Keep A Breasts' cancer prevention goals,
education initiatives and support programs. Every PUSH earns you PUSH PINK points and places you
in the running to win an iPad or unique art pieces whose creation was influenced by the fight against breast
cancer.
Visit www.pushpink.org TODAY!

Thank you so much for your support.

Sincerely,

The Keep A Breast FoundationConnect with us:

The Keep A Breast Foundation

2251 Las Palmas Dr.
Carlsbad CA 92011
United States

Technology in the Future

2011-09-28T12:00:00.001-04:00

If this is true, we should buy stock in WINDEX!

SNOWSPORTS State of the Industry (video report)

2011-09-19T14:58:00.003-04:00

Executive Summary: When it snows a bunch, we sell a bunch of snowsports product. Let's hope this year it snows a bunch.

Shout out to Vance, snowboarder in Vermont. REALLY??? :-|

DEFENDING AWESOME w Dustin Craven

2011-09-13T13:24:00.002-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w Mr Cocard

2011-09-08T16:24:00.001-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w Danger P

2011-09-08T16:23:00.001-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w Scott Wingman Stevens

2011-09-08T16:21:00.002-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w Mama Hades

2011-09-08T16:19:00.001-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w/ a giant man

2011-09-08T15:45:00.003-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w Cale Zima

2011-09-08T15:45:00.001-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w Hamburglar

2011-09-08T15:43:00.002-04:00

DEFENDING AWESOME w TJ Schneider

2011-09-08T15:42:00.000-04:00

High Cascade Snowboard Camp

2011-08-09T09:57:00.000-04:00

el parque esta cerrado...

HCSC 2011: Session 5 Recap from High Cascade Snowboard Camp on Vimeo.

Travis Pastrana VIDEO... OMG!

2011-06-27T16:20:00.000-04:00

Wow!

BACKYARD REMODEL... Garden Time!

2011-06-27T16:16:00.000-04:00

Whipped our backyard into shape over the past couple months. Added a little retaining wall (160 feet long), a couple small vegetable/fruit gardens (660 sq.ft.), a little grass (7 pallets ~ approx 3,000 sq.ft.), and a few plants:
2 apple trees, cherry tree, pear tree, fig tree, a couple dozen strawberry/blueberry/blackberry plants, grape arbor, corn, red/yellow/roma tomatoes, all variety of peppers, green beans, zucchini, squash, potato, boc choy, some sunflowers, and a couple mystery plants I have no idea what they are...

Stay tuned for the chickens... oh yes.

Here's a couple pics below
(more pics at http://gallery.me.com/bradbradley#100091)

BEFORE...

AFTER

DURING

CAPiTA SuperCorp Welcomes SEAN SuperPro TEDORE!

2011-06-08T09:27:00.000-04:00

CAPiTA SUPER CORPORATION SIGNS
SEAN TEDORE TO PRO TEAM

For Immediate Release:
Seattle, Washington - June 6, 2011

CAPiTA Snowboarding is pleased to announce the addition of Sean Tedore to CAPiTA's professional team of desk jockeys.
The former NEOPROTO films standout and Transworld message board sensation had a seven year pro shred career riding for companies such as Nitro, Electric, Ambiguous, and others. Based out of Truckee, California, Tedore was known for his skill and stylistic approach to the changing dynamic of snowboarding in that era and was on top of his game in 2002.

In 2003 at Breckenridge, Colorado with a bright snowboarding career on the horizon, Tedore washed out on a freshly salted take off and did a switch frontside 90 over a 100-foot SUPERPARK jump. He came up short and in a scary moment, tore his ACL, MCL, PCL, Patella Tendon, both Meniscus, and smashed the outside corner of his Femur.
Tedore recovered, only to have a second knee injury a year later which ended his pro snowboard career. Luckily for Sean, he had a back up plan.

In 2003, Tedore graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nevada-Reno and in 2005 was hired as the Snowboard Product Development Engineer at K2. During his near six year run at K2 Snowboards Tedore worked with a great team and personally designed over 20 Transworld Snowboarding Good Wood Board Test award winning boards establishing him as one of the premiere board designers in the industry.

At CAPiTA, Tedore takes on a multifaceted role of Product Development and US Marketing Manager. He will employ his design knowledge and engineering background on the snowboard development process and also utilize his network of marketing contacts and media and rider relationships to strategize new ventures for CAPiTA marketing.
Tedore had this to say about the change, "Blue and I have known each other a long time. We're from the same area. I've always liked CAPiTA's approach, and it just seemed like a natural progression to come here and work together."

CAPiTA Pro Shred: Brisse, Stevens, Kimura, Craven, Hadar, Schneider, Zima, Cocard, Jacques.
CAPiTA Pro Desk: Montgomery, Makinen, Chui, Malkoski, Tedore.

CAPiTA Snowboarding is based on the fishing docks of Seattle, Washington and is recognized throughout the industry for unique graphics, progressive product, and world-class athletes. www.capitasnowboarding.com

ASHBURY TO USE OPTICS BY CARL ZEISS VISION LENSES

2011-04-15T08:57:00.000-04:00

http://ashburyeyewear.com/2011/04/14/ashbury-to-use-optics-by-carl-zeiss-vision-lenses/

Today, we at Ashbury are proud to announce our partnership with Optics by Carl Zeiss Vision! Starting immediately, all of our sunglasses will come standard with Carl Zeiss Vision sun lenses! In mid May all of our shades will come with a Carl Zeiss Vision pamphlet to inform our customers of the added value. We are proud to be one of the few brands approved to be able to use Carl Zeiss sun lenses in our sunglasses.

Ashbury focuses on quality and timeless styles. Our products are made using only the best possible materials and the highest quality manufacturing, for this reason Ashbury decided to partner up with Optics by Car Zeiss Vision lenses which guarantee an extremely high level of protection for your eyes in all conditions.

Carl Zeiss Vision Sunlenses have been tested in order to achieve advanced optical perfection, guaranteeing a better protection for your eyes. Protecting your eyes is very important and requires the proper protection everyday, this can only be achieved with top quality sunlenses. Provide your eyes with better protection using Optics by Carl Zeiss Vision sunlenses.

For more information on Carl Zeiss Vision sun lenses, please click HERE. (http://www.sunlens.zeiss.com/zeiss/index.php)

DC SHOES - Holiday 2011 BRAND VIBE

2011-04-06T07:04:00.001-04:00

Ready for this summer's X-GAMES?

2011-03-30T16:33:00.000-04:00

July 28-31 in Los Angeles, CAL EEEEE FOR NEEEE UUUUUH....

SO.... AWESOME!

2011-02-28T14:31:00.000-05:00

Lungie Land Vol.39 from deadlung on Vimeo.

2010/11 SNOW BIZ, BACK AFTER ALL THESE YEARS...

2011-02-25T07:56:00.000-05:00

I got this article in the 'ole email box this morning, from SIA

http://www.snowsports.org/Reps/SIANewsletter/NewsletterDetail/Contentid/1489/

SNOW SPORTS MARKET SETS BILLION DOLLAR RECORD IN DECEMBER
The snow sports market sold more than $1 billion worth of equipment, apparel and accessories in December alone and reached $2.1 billion season to date. Sales through December this season are 16% higher in dollars sold and 10% more units sold compared to the same time last season. Excellent snow across the U.S. and improved consumer confidence should result in the best season ever for the market.

“I can’t remember the last time I’ve had snow in my back yard for this long – if people are looking at grass, it just doesn’t put them in the right frame of mind to buy skis and snowboards,” commented Paul Prutzman, Pinnacle Sports, Redding, PA.

Joy over this season’s very positive results should be tempered with the knowledge that production costs are quickly increasing in China and materials costs for commodities, like cotton, are rising at record rates. Increased production and materials costs will result in substantial price increases for a significant share of all products sold in the U.S. market. Increased prices tend to have a negative impact on all discretionary spending which may include snow sports gear next season.

Source: SIA RetailTRAK™ Data by Leisure Trends Group

Equipment sales continue to lead market increases which are leading the charge with a 22% increase in dollars sold overall and 11% more units sold. Alpine equipment sales are up 27% season-to-date, and snowboard equipment sales are enjoying an excellent recovery with 14% more dollars sold through December, compared to last season’s disappointing numbers.
“Last year was tough for everyone. This year we are super clean, and we were sold out by December 20th. Snow always helps,” said Sam Herrbach, Flow Snowboarding.
Apparel sales are strong in the early season increasing 11% in dollars sold. La Niña conditions continue to bring excellent conditions for snow sports across the country including the South where below average temperatures and snowfall in cities, like Atlanta, drive sales of snow sports apparel.
Accessories sales increased more than 16% led by very strong surges in goggles, wax, snowboard accessories and backcountry accessories. Overall, the snow sports market is enjoying excellent sales and is on track to set new benchmarks this season as excellent snowfall and improving economic conditions drive consumers to the market for cold weather apparel and equipment to enjoy the harsh winter conditions.

Early Season Trends

Alpine ski systems sales are up 30% in units sold and 35% in dollars sold.

AT/Randonee equipment sales are up more than 90% overall led by boot sales that increased 150% to $5.9 million in sales.

Reverse/Mixed camber ski sales are up an astounding 168% in units and 165% in dollars, and represent 10% of all alpine skis sold so far this season.

Reverse camber snowboard sales are up 54% in units and 58% in dollars sold. Reverse camber is the new norm in snowboard; 61% of all snowboards sold are rocker/reverse camber so far this season.

Snowboard sales are up 5% in units and 14% in dollars sold, a solid turnaround from last season’s relatively dismal sales.

Snowboard apparel tops up 16% in dollars sold.
Insulated parka sales surged 22% in units sold and 23% in dollars sold through December as La Niña conditions pounded most of the U.S. with cold temperatures and snowfall.

Goggles sales surge up 32% in units sold to 360,000 pairs.

Consumers are buying current season equipment and carryover sales are down 24% overall in the snow sports market.

Source: SIA RetailTRAK™ by Leisure Trends Group. Topline data includes carryover sales.

Regionally, heavy snow and colder than average temperatures brought consumers out to buy in the western region where sales are up 25% in dollars sold. The Northeast enjoyed increases of 9% in units sold and 17% in dollars sold, after two seasons of decline. Unexpectedly, the South also enjoyed sales increases of 10% in units sold and 15% in dollars sold after last year’s stellar sales. The Midwest region showed stable growth of 9% in units and 11% in dollars sold on strong equipment sales that are up 21% in dollars sold.

The market data presented in this report comes from the SIA RetailTRAK™, produced by Leisure Trends Group. The RetailTRAK data is gathered directly from the Point of Sale systems of about 1/3 of the snow sports retailers in the U.S. market. Each season, Leisure Trends gathers snow sports sales data from a representative panel of more than 1,200 snow sports retailers. The panel and the method for extrapolating the results out to the entire industry is based on a triennial census of snow sports retailers designed to accurately define the size and structure of the snow sports retail marketplace. SIA maintains these data for members down to the product level. Click here to read the Executive Market Summary (EMS). The EMS report provides a summary of the entire snow sports marketplace monthly during the season; presenting "The Big-Picture" of the snow sports industry through six reports yearly. For more information about SIA’s RetailTRAK data and other SIA Research products and services, please contact Kelly Davis, SIA’s Director of Research, at KDavis@snowsports.org.

ARE YOU COOL ENOUGH? ARE UNIQUE ENOUGH?

2011-02-24T16:16:00.000-05:00

So I found this cool brand, Canvassed Apparel (http://canvassedapparel.com), and I'm pretty impressed. Here's a few reasons why...

1. Style: unique, yet simple and fun at the same time. I can wear stripes, trees, pandas, monkeys (i love monkeys) or big cat eye sunglass frames on me and look & feel comfortable style-wise, yet be uniquely different than anybody else at the party. Or the coffee shop. Or the skatepark. Even though I'm a poser and can't skate anymore. Not the point. Let's stay focused.

2. Made in USA: in today's economy, this touches me emotionally. Does it mean Americans will come flocking to buy & wear it? No. But I enjoy the notion and principle, nonetheless.

3. Scene: I like that they actually support the local skate & snow scene. Check their blog for links and videos to App Ski Mountain, our good friends at RECESS in Boone NC, even some self-promoting shots of them on snow wearing their threads.

It's a little brand that's doing the right things. Check 'em out at http://canvassedapparel.com

Go Go Go.... February 2011!

2011-02-15T12:35:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the radio silence on this-here blog site. I've been enjoying the absolute busiest sales season in my 5+ years of selling. Much love to my wife, Marian, for SERIOUSLY helping me get through this. Very soon, I promise you & the girls will see me again for more than 12 hours at a time (5.5 of which I've been asleep). Love you!

Plain and simple, things are cookin' and it's HOT in the kitchen. I've had my oven mitts on non-stop for what seems like 3 months (really it's only been 6 weeks), and I'm MORE than excited about what's being served from this year's products menu. How much more can I play-up this cooking analogy, you may ask? Stay tuned... there'll be some early season hor' dourves, saliva dripping, some competitive snarling, an incredible Fall-time Feast, then hopefully another all-out Industry-wide FOOD FIGHT!

Analogy closed.

Jan 14, 2011: CHRIS COLE on DC SHOES

2011-01-14T12:07:00.000-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

DC SIGNS CHRIS COLE TO ITS SKATE TEAM

January 14, 2011 - Huntington Beach, CA – DC is proud to announce it has signed legendary skateboarder Chris Cole to its elite Skate team. Recognized as one of the best and most influential skaters of his generation, Chris is only the second skater to ever become Thrasher’s “Skater of the Year” twice (after DC’s Danny Way) once in 2005, and again in 2009. In that same year, he was also honored with TransWorld SKATEboarding’s Readers Choice Award.
To welcome him, DC is launching its latest Initials Commercial featuring Chris, in which he debuts a never before done trick– a FS 360 to front board. Check it out now at http://www.dcskateboarding.tv/cole. The mini-site also features a new interview, photo gallery and bio on Chris.

“DC is a huge force in skateboarding- pushing new technology and styling into skate footwear,” said Chris. “I've always admired that, and when I had the opportunity to be a part of their team I jumped at it. They have already made me an even bigger fan with the way they do things, how I’ve been treated, and the things I’ve been shown.”

“Our heritage and also our future is in skateboarding, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Chris to the family,” said Anton Nistl, DC’s President. “DC is known for having athletes that exemplify raw talent, natural leadership, ambition and fearlessness, and we really feel that Chris embodies all of these traits and more. This is a great way for us to kick off 2011. Our future is looking bright with Chris in it.”

Hailing from Langhorne, PA, Chris has spent the majority of his life on a skateboard and his powerful and precise skating style shows just that. He is an innovator of tricks such as a cab front blunt on a handrail, FS 360 to front board and he’s made his mark at famous spots such as the Carlsbad Gap and Wallenberg High School. His raw talent and un-matched ability has been showcased with parts in almost 20 skate videos including Transworld’s In Bloom and Zero’s Strange World.

In 2004 Chris won his first contest, Best Trick at the Tampa Pro and he hasn’t slowed down since. He’s won practically every contest out there including back-to-back Gold Medals at X Games (in 2006 and 2007), the Maloof Money Cup three times (once in 2009 and twice in 2010), Dew Tour (in 2009), Battle At The Berrics 2 (in 2009). Most recently he competed in the first Street League Skateboarding™ DC Pro Tour taking 2nd place at the Las Vegas event stop.

Chris’ 2011 is already a busy one as he is working on finishing a film part for Zero’s Cold War and working on developing signature products with DC. For more information on DC, its athletes and products visit http://www.dcshoes.com and on DC’s Facebook and Twitter pages (http://www.facebook.com/DC.Shoes andhttp://twitter.com/dcshoes).

CAPiTA Snowboarder Cover - 10YR CAPiTA BSOD

2011-01-11T10:26:00.001-05:00

Dan Brisse - 10Y Black Snowboard of Death on the cover of the Trade Show Preview Workbook for Snowboarder Mag.

Inside - TJ has an article on The Snowboard Realms. Hadar has a photo, CAPiTA, COAL, and UNION product previews, and some pretty interesting stats from the retail audit.

DC Shoes JUNIOR'S FALL 2011 Video...

2011-01-10T16:07:00.002-05:00

DC has completely revised it's JRS product offering, with all new styling and soft hand fabrics.

A Sales Rep Slide Show...

2010-12-23T11:25:00.000-05:00

Here's somewhat of a collage of my day job... all in all, I enjoy what I do.

New SNOWBOARD REALMS, Season4 Episode6...

2010-12-22T08:23:00.000-05:00

TJ Schneider hints towards upcoming CAPiTA Snowboards full length video, and keeps his shit tight and artistic... always a fun watch. Thank you, TJ!

Enjoy!

Transworld Snowboarding Riders Poll Awards (Nominations)

2010-12-21T21:22:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Best In Snow: TransWorld SNOWboarding Hosts 12th Annual Riders’ Poll Award Show
Carlsbad, California — Snowboarding’s best will once again descend upon The Fillmore in Denver, Colorado, for snowboarding’s biggest night of the year — the TransWorld SNOWboarding Riders’ Poll Award Show, presented by New Era. The 12th annual red carpet event brings the top snowboarding pros together for one night to celebrate the year’s most outstanding riders.

The 2011 TransWorld SNOWboarding Riders’ Poll Award Show will be held on Friday, January 28, the second night of the SnowSports Industries America (SIA) trade show. Doors to the Fillmore open at 7:00 p.m., with the award show starting at 8:00 p.m.

“The Riders’ Poll is a chance to step back from the grind and celebrate snowboarding’s top riders and their achievements over the past year. It’s an opportunity for them to get much-deserved recognition from their fellow riders.” –Annie Fast, Editor-In-Chief, TransWorld SNOWboarding

12th Annual TransWorld SNOWboarding Riders’ Poll Award Nominees:

Men’s Rider Of The Year
John Jackson
Gigi Rüf
Dan Brisse

Women’s Rider Of The Year
Annie Boulanger
Jess Kimura
Torah Bright

Rookie Of The Year
Mark Sollors
Phil Jacques
Jess Kimura

Men’s Video Part Of The Year
Mark Sollors (TransWorld SNOWboarding, In Color)
John Jackson (Forum, F—k It)
Gigi Rüf (Volcom, 9191)

Women’s Video Part Of The Year
Annie Boulanger (Absinthe, NowHere)
Jess Kimura (Think Thank, Left Brain Right Brain)
Leanne Pelosi (Standard, The Storming)

Standout Of The Year
Mikey LeBlanc (Stairset ender in Videograss' Bon Voyage)
Danny Davis (Mammoth Mountain Grand Prix winning half pipe run)
Torstein Horgmo (Landing the first triple cork in Standard’s The Storming)

Video Of The Year
People, Cheers
TransWorld SNOWboarding, In Color
Forum, F—k It

Readers’ Choice
TBA

Legend Award
Mike Ranquet

I'm very pleased to bring you...

2010-12-19T10:15:00.001-05:00

HOLDEN Outerwear.... call or write for an appointment at SIA, Atlantic City, Greenville SC, or in your parking lot.

HOLDEN coming to AGENDA

2010-12-19T10:03:00.000-05:00

HOLDEN Outerwear will be presenting at The Agenda Tradeshow, Anaheim January 6th and 7th...

BlueSign Certification

2010-12-12T10:38:00.000-05:00

What if there was a uniformly adopted standard for insuring that textile manufacturers used the absolute best EHS standards (environmental, health and safety) when producing goods?

Well there is. It's called BLUESIGN Certification (http://www.bluesign.com), and many textiles manufacturers are applying for it. BlueSign advises that global environmental regulation will eventually REQUIRE that these "best standards" be implemented in ALL aspects of textiles production, but I personally believe that's aggressively optimistic. I do believe that consumer demand and holistic judgement will help drive more brand/product mgrs and textiles manufacturers to look to be certified &/or source products from textile manufacturers that are bluesign certified.

Here's some words from SGS, a partner network of certified agents around the world that help consult with companies and work to implement bluesign certifications. Pretty interesting stuff.

http://www.softlines.sgs.com/bluesign.htm

bluesign has pretty cool online search tools so you can easily find manufacturers and textiles companies that are bluesign certified. Well, you have to be registered with them to use their tools. Brands will MARKET the fact that they've chosen to make their products with bluesign certified yarns, fabrics, chemicals, laminates, etc.

http://www.bluesign.com/index.php?id=115

bluesign® applications

The bluesign® standard brings together the entire textile manufacturing chain to jointly reduce the environmental footprint of a responsible textile industry. Each level, from chemical suppliers to textile manufacturers to brands and retailer, has its unique needs. bluesign technologies ag has developed various user-friendly software applications to meet these needs. The applications provide the textile value chain with the necessary know-how and support in EHS management for the daily practice.

HOLDEN OUTERWEAR sales meeting...

2010-12-11T23:25:00.000-05:00

First off, HOLDEN OUTERWEAR is the best outerwear brand on the face of the earth. Hands down. Period. Simple. Not enough people in my territory buy HOLDEN OUTERWEAR, but I'm working on that. Enough about me. How about some snap shots and more pointless words from my time in Portland this weekend...

1. My 1st encounter with Oregon's finest hood-rich styling, a la the light rail from airport to downtown. Homey had on sweatpants under his slouching denim, only because he's practical:

2. my first Portland meal... awesome Italian Sandwich at an awesome deli, with an awesome Oregon local Winterfest ale. Did I mention, it was AWESOME!

3. My hotel room 'key card'... this one's for my girls:

4. Breakfast, a la HOLDEN OUTERWEAR. If I wasn't a fan of the brand before, I SURE AM NOW! That's an everything bagel sandwich with fresh lox, capers, cream cheese, lettuce and tomato. Oh, and a hard-boiled egg AND PERSONALIZED CREAM FILLED FCKN DONUTS!!!! WHAT?!?!?!?!

5. product... timeless designs, eco-friendly proprietary considered fabrics, attention to detail, tailored athletic fits, and technical functionality... clear TOP of line product. These pics don't even TOUCH the magnitude.

5. during break, I hiked a block over to the world-famous POWELL'S BOOKSTORE and bought myself this little gem for the plane ride home:

Uuuuuh Nother COVER...

2010-12-10T08:21:00.000-05:00

Hey Dan Brisse, how about ANOTHER COVER.

Congrats, Dan! Congrats, CAPiTA!

Chamonix, France. WOW!

2010-12-05T09:49:00.002-05:00

Due to weather (the good stuff) in Geneva, my flight was re-routed to Frankfurt Germany. Airline bought my train ticket(s) from Frankfurt to Geneva, which was supposed to take 5 and half hours. Because every train was late (NOT my fault), I missed every connection train. Not to mention how tired I was - and the language barrier (my fault), I made some mistakes too. It took me 12 hours to get to Geneva.

But I finally arrived, and got PUMPED!

Oh, I don't think I mentioned the snowboarding... hands down my BEST season opener of ALL TIME. POWWWWWWW DEEEERRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!

In Other News... Don't Buy a Smart Car.

2010-11-24T12:15:00.000-05:00

I'd rather be dumb than dead.

How light are your bindings?

2010-11-19T11:26:00.000-05:00

UNION BINDING COMPANY presents to you, FORCE MC.

For you dirty Americans, that translates to 1.6 lbs. LIGHT!

USA! USA! USA!

2010-11-08T11:24:00.001-05:00

Are we getter closer to justifying bringing some production of consumer goods back to USA factories? Increased costs of goods produced in China (double, in some cases) will have to be factored-in at some point. Then shipping costs, container shortages, not to mention overall good "ju-ju" feelings of buying "made in USA" products. There couldn't be a more opportune time to spur on jobs and economy in USA. I dunno, just thinkin.

(begin quote)
Chinese Textile Companies Quoting 30% Price Increases
SportsOneSource Media Posted: 11/8/2010

Chinese textile companies were quoting price increases of as much as 30% at the massive Canton Trade Fair, telling customers that a global cotton shortage and persistent labor shortages were driving up costs, according to several reports.

Spot prices for standard grade Chinese cotton have risen to 30,000 Yuan from as low as 15,000 yuan earlier this year as a global shortfall of the fiber and speculators have driven up prices. Meanwhile, Chinese factories continue to have trouble recruiting and retaining workers, who increasingly have options closer to home or are demanding higher wages and benefits.

Chinese textile companies are expected to continue focusing on innovation and branding to prop up their margins, which are often below 5%.

While Chinese exports of textile products grew by 23% in the first nine months of the year, experts attribute the surge to the fact that more brands are importing apparel in bulk to ensure supply and avoid price increases.
(end quote)

On the road again...

2010-10-27T13:32:00.000-04:00

Seems like I've been haulin' ass nonstop this year.
OK, pitty party over. No complaints.
Back to work.

JESSICA KIMURA!!!

2010-10-18T17:20:00.000-04:00

2010: Womens Rookie of the Year, Video part of the year, Rider of the Year...

Oh, and COVER SHOT....

DAN BRISSE, O H M Y G O S H H H H H H H

2010-10-13T16:47:00.000-04:00

Yes, I've already posted Dan Brisse's Transworld cover. Here's another angle below (a la CAPiTA Snowboard's facebook post). Holy CRAP!

Sidenote: The Japanese characters are there to remind me that it's a BIG BIG world we live in. There's some love out there for ya, Brisse. Now stop trying to kill yourself. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Old Nervous Guy

HOLDEN Outerwear sales meeting invitation

2010-10-13T08:13:00.002-04:00

I gotta say, this sales meeting invitation from HOLDEN OUTERWEAR is amazing. Definitely recharges my batteries a bit this roadtrip/clinic season.

Stoked... thank you.

Untitled from Holden on Vimeo.

Poor Fast Food World Cup Soccer Team Captain Scooter Guy...

2010-10-04T00:04:00.000-04:00

While 'lil Chris pumped fuel next door, I walked into McDonalds for a good-morning-gut-grenade on my way to "work". A few seconds later, a soccer player (who had obviously ordered enough McMuffins for the entire team) was handed his huge delightful double bag of microwaved McDonalds fattiness. He left, walked outside, and managed to climb aboard his scooter. I remember thinking to myself how cool his soccer jersey was, and then my brain started to conjure up random thoughts about the International World Cup of Soccer. All of these strange thoughts were only magnified by the fact that he climbed aboard a scooter, and drove away with a couple huge bags of McDonalds food.

After waiting 4-5 minutes in a non-moving line, two separate fat-deserving people in front of me left very disgusted (apparently from waiting too long). Only the 3 greasy people working behind the counter and the World Cup Soccer Team Captain knew exactly how long these frustrated people had been waiting. So I decided to leave also, empty handed. And hungry. But guilt free, at least.

'Lil Chris picked me up outside. We drove out of the parking lot, down the road about a mile, when we came upon the Fast Food World Cup Soccer Scooter Guy pulled over by one of Flor-i-duh's finest.

Now my dreams were shattered, and the whole soccer team's food was getting cold. Damn cops.

Airport ART in Ft. Lauderdale

2010-10-02T08:48:00.000-04:00

Maybe it was because I was on the phone, engaged in thought process, task oriented. Or maybe I have no sense of art. I dunno, but this just caught me by surprise, actually stopped me dead in my tracks. I had to get off the phone w/ lil Chris to focus and process what the hell this was. Armani says it's a famous sculptor/artisan, which makes sense I guess. Why else would they give them an entire airport glassed-in room to display their work.

But I still don't get it. It kinda made me sad. Fat dude moping on the beach? I mean he looked SUPER realistic, like I literally thought some dude was kickin' it inside this glass room, listening to some depressing song on his iPod. Is this my happy welcome to Ft. Lauderdale, Flair-i-duh?

Frazzled Guy

2010-10-01T08:59:00.001-04:00

Frazzled Guy sits down next to me at the gate...
FG: "so what is it, 8:30am?!"
Me: "yeah. I got up super early to make this 2 hour layover"
FG: "oh yeah, it's my birthday SO I JUST STAYED UP ALL NIGHT LONG, HAHAHA!!!"
(gaining everyone's attention seated at the gate)
Me: "oh wow, so you're THAT guy today"
FG: (continues with self-deprecating statements, then a mumble about wishing he had slept, then a couple chuckles)
Me: "I gotta get a coffee. G'luck, man"

WTF, Dan Brisse?!

2010-09-27T19:55:00.000-04:00

Ok, so will ALL snowboard magazine COVERS from now on require death-defying moves like this? I certainly hope not. This cover shot makes me feel old and nervous. Suddenly I have the urge to reset my back binding setting from negative to positive, wear a helmet, and go slow. Mind my own business. Just point, shoot and carve. The world is getting a little too crazy around me.

CAPiTA & UNION: Product Clinic Videos

2010-09-21T16:36:00.000-04:00

Thanks to JOHAN, BLUE, GEORGE & C3 crew... my "clinic schedule" this year will consist of rolling around to shops, passing out hi-fives & beers, and pretending I'm cool! Here's all the technical details of the entire product lines for CAPiTA SNOWBOARDS & UNION BINDINGS.

http://c3-superpro.blogspot.com/

Seriously though, I really appreciate the hardwork and effort that went into this project.

Thank you, C3!

Backyard Bonanza!

2010-09-20T16:44:00.000-04:00

A big THANK YOU to the Grandparents for chipping-in on this new backyard playplace. The girls LOVE it! Putting it together was quite a task. Ok, back to work.

www.redfives.com UPDATED!

2010-09-07T12:05:00.002-04:00

Http://redfives.com has been completed updated... Wow! No way?! You're kidding me? That's awesome. No, really.

Ok, who cares?

www.holdenouterwear.com is LIVE!

2010-09-02T10:01:00.000-04:00

http://www.holdenouterwear.com is live! Great job navigating the product in that special "holden" artsy fartsy humorous steeze. Wow, I just wrote that as if I was a super highly accredited website critic. Nice.

Coal is cool. I mean warm.

2010-08-23T09:16:00.000-04:00

Coal is cool, no matter how you carve if up... checkout this Skinet.com review of COAL's Addie beanie for the laid deeez (NOTE: that there was an original play-on-words, Johan-style).

http://www.skinet.com/skiing/gear/2010/08/fifty-pieces-of-summer-gear?pnid=109467#gallery-content

Dick's Raises and Jumps

2010-08-23T08:43:00.000-04:00

It happens every time. When I get the SportsOneSource Business Update emails, I ALWAYS giggle like i'm 10 years old again when I read the "Dick's" (Sporting Goods) updates. Dick's, thank you for naming your big chain store "Dick's". And thank you, Dick's, for making Old Balls like me continue to feel young and silly.

I keep waiting for the merger between "Big 5 Sports" and "Dick's". hee hee hee...

Dick's SG's Raises Guidance on Q2 32% Jumps in Q2 ProfitsDick's Sporting Goods, Inc. reported second-quarter earnings jumped 32.3%, exceeding guidance provided on May 18. The 5.7% consolidated same store sales increase consisted of a 5.6% increase in Dick's Sporting Goods stores, a 2.9% increase in Golf Galaxy stores and a 28.0% increase in e-commerce. The company also said it plans to close 12 underperforming Golf Galaxy stores..Full Story>>>

bradrulz, the GLOGGER (is not me)

2010-08-17T13:22:00.004-04:00

Shockingly, I am not the only "bradrulz" in existence. I've encountered another that boldly claims the same name. Here is my executive summary of this individual, respectfully:

1. he is half my age (14 yrs old),

2. he plays Rugby for Christ Church Football (sounds British to me),

3. but he "wants to play for the All Blacks, Hurricanes, and the Wellington Lions",

3. he enjoys going to Our Lady of Fatima School (private religious school?)

a. however, he has a friend named DEVIL4LYFE

b. and "Slippery" (Mom, are you there? Intervene possibly?)

4. he is "da coolest guy u can meet" (I guess we DO have something in common)

5. he lives by the motto "Forget blogging, Try Glogging",

6. he strangely resembled Hulk Hogan as a child. Now THAT I like

7. he "(is) the best tackler ever, so don't get (him) angry or (he) will smash u at rugby"

8. he has 4 brothers, yet...

9. his "Favourites" contains Music Rainbow by "squirrelygurl"

10. I think I'll stick to Blogging, not Glogging.

I wish you all the best, young BradRulz the Glogger. Stay cool, little man.

Love,

bradrulz the Blogger

http://bradrulz.glogster.com/

Panda Boobs Make GOOD WOOD!

2010-08-16T20:55:00.004-04:00

2011 CAPiTA Stairmaster Extreme ("Party Panda") is awarded "Top Ten Men's Park Boards Over $400" by Transworld 2011 GOOD WOOD AWARDS.

Hot Damn!

Chase Weaver, Assistant Head Digger WENDELLS Snowboard Camp

2010-08-06T11:02:00.002-04:00

Dear Chase,

Thanks for your support with CAPiTA Snowboards, UNION Bindings, and of course RECESS Board Shop in Boone, NC! Congratulations on your summer job, and your most recent coverage on Snowboard-Mag.com.

Now come home, we miss you.

Thanks, YoBeat... CAPITA ULTRAFEAR FK

2010-07-01T19:24:00.002-04:00

"How does this board handle jumps? Well, how does METH handle gettin' high?!"

Yobeat Review: Capita Ultrafear FK from YoBeat Magazine on Vimeo.

Gigi Ruf and Friends in Volcom's "9191"...

2010-07-01T19:09:00.004-04:00

Ashbury Eyewear SLIDE MACHINE shades...

2010-06-25T13:25:00.004-04:00

Holler when you're ready for some of the coolest shades on the planet...

DC Flow Rider TRAVIS GLOVER from ATL on TWS

2010-04-15T10:33:00.001-04:00

Congrats, Travis!

http://skateboarding.transworld.net/1000106405/features/video-checkout-travis-glover/

Retail Sales getting better... hey, i'll TAKE IT!

2010-04-15T08:58:00.002-04:00

March Retail Sales Stronger Than Anticipated

SportsOneSource Media Posted: 4/14/2010

According to the National Retail Federation, March retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) increased 0.9% seasonally adjusted over February and 5.7% unadjusted year-over-year. The better-than-expected results were helped by an early Easter and improved consumer spending.

ADVERTISEMENT

According to the U.S. Commerce Department, retail sales in March increased 1.6% from the previous month compared with an expected increase of 1.2%, and recent months were revised upwards. Excluding motor vehicles, retail sales rose 0.6%. Retail sales have grown 7.6% unadjusted versus March 2009.

"The strong growth in retail sales demonstrates consumers' increasing confidence in the economic recovery," Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said. "While this news is positive, the administration remains singularly focused on putting people back to work. Our recovery will not be complete until every American who wants a job can find one."

According to the NRF, March retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) increased 0.9% seasonally adjusted over February and 5.7% unadjusted year-over-year.

"It's evident consumers were feeling much better about the economy and their finances last month," said Rosalind Wells, Chief Economist for NRF. "Pent up demand combined with an early Easter and warm Spring weather significantly boosted consumers' moods and retail sales."

Stores that sell apparel, home goods, outdoor equipment and furniture saw the biggest increases. Clothing and clothing accessory stores sales increased 2.3% seasonally adjusted month-to-month and 9.9% unadjusted year-over-year. Building material, garden equipment and supplies sales increased 3.1% seasonally adjusted over February and 3.3% unadjusted from last year. Sales at furniture and home furnishings stores increased 1.5% seasonally adjusted from last month and 6.5% unadjusted year-over-year.

Sporting goods, hobby book and music stores sales were also solid with seasonally adjusted sales increasing 1.0% month-to-month and 9.0% unadjusted year-over-year.

[end of article that I blatantly copy/pasted]

(Surf) Wipeout of the Year Award Nominees...

2010-04-14T10:52:00.001-04:00

Note to self: "pass on the surf trip to Shipstern's Bluff, Tasmania"

ROBBIE MADDISON JUMPS CORINTH CANAL

2010-04-13T15:23:00.003-04:00

view it bigger HERE:
http://moto.dcshoes.com/features/robbie-maddison-jumps-corinth-canal/

April 12, 2010 – VISTA, CA – Congratulations to DC Moto athlete Robbie Maddison who completed his latest stunt jumping 279 feet over the Corinth Canal in Greece. He is the first person to successfully complete a jump of this kind over the canal.

“It’s an amazing feeling to put it all on the line and jump over a gap that gnarly,” said Robbie. “I know it could have been my worst nightmare if things went wrong, but thanks to DC and Red Bull, we did it right. So stoked I made it.”

The Corinth Canal jump is the latest record-breaking jump for the 28-year old freestyle motocross athlete. He rang in the start of 2009 by setting the world record for a distance moto jump when he jumped his motorcycle to the top of the Arc De Triomphe at the Paris Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. But the thrills didn’t stop there, in July Robbie headed across the Atlantic where he did a no-handed backflip over the Tower Bridge in London, England.

Next up for Robbie is the season opener of the 2010 Red Bull X Fighters competition on April 16th in Mexico City, Mexico. For more on Robbie and DC’s motocross team visit http://moto.dcshoes.com/team-global/.

DC WELCOMES CLAY MARZO TO ITS SURF TEAM

2010-04-13T10:53:00.002-04:00

[copy/pasted from Press Release]

April 12, 2010 – VISTA, CA – DC is pleased to welcome pro surfer Clay Marzo to its Surf team. Look for Clay to kick off DC’s new surf campaign later this month.

"I’m so stoked to be back on the DC team with Ry, Dane, and now Julian,” said Clay. “The shoes are sick and they treat me like family.”

Twenty-year-old Clay grew up in Maui, Hawaii where his parents, both avid surfers, had him in the water more than they did on land. His talents in the water were noticed at a young age and he became sponsored at the age of nine. In 2005 he won his first big contest, NSSA Open Men’s National Champion, which opened doors for him to film with the worlds best surfers. He appeared in The Young Guns 2, 3, and Tomorrow Today and in 2008 his video Just Add Water earned him, “Best Male Performance,” at the Surfer Poll Awards. Clay was originally on the DC Surf team from 2004- 2006.

“Clay is a one of a kind athlete who has pushed the limits and helped surfing evolve to what it is today,” said Brian Cassaro, DC’s Action Sports Marketing Director. “We’re excited to have him as part of the DC family again.”

Most recently Clay was featured in the April 15th issue of Rolling Stone magazine and ranked # 2 on Surfer magazine’s “Hot 100” list of the best young surfers in the world. For more on Clay and the DC Surf team visit, http://www.dcshoes.com/surf.

* * *

DC WELCOMES JULIAN WILSON TO ITS SURF TEAM

2010-04-09T10:20:00.001-04:00

[copy & pasted from the press release]

April 8, 2010 – VISTA, CA – DC welcomes pro surfer Julian Wilson to its Surf team. Check out Julian’s welcome video now at http://surf.dcshoes.com/videos/#/dc-team-welcomes-julian-wilson/.

"To join the DC team is one of those dreams you have as a kid,” said Julian. “To be given the opportunity now is pretty special. DC athletes are always the best in their sport, I’m honored to wear the DC ring and stand alongside them.”

Haling from Coolum Beach, Australia, the 21-year-old learned to surf soon after learning to walk. His early career saw him winning contests throughout Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Europe. In 2006 he won the Quiksilver ISA World Junior Championship and in 2008 he became the youngest surfer to win “Best Performance of the Year” at the 35th Annual Surfer Poll Awards for his part in the film, “Young Guns III.”

“It’s an honor to have a talent like Julian represent DC,” said Brian Cassaro, DC’s Action Sports Marketing Director. “His personality and ambition are a perfect match for our brand and we’re excited to support him as his career continues to flourish.”

For the 2010 season Julian is focused on the WQS in search of a WCT spot. Look for DC to support Julian’s first movie, “Scratching The Surface,” premiering in September 2010. For more on Julian and the DC Surf team visit http://www.dcshoes.com/surf.

* * *

Transworld's UNION 2010/11 Binding Preview

2010-01-25T11:52:00.001-05:00

We (UNION) have tremendous sell through, due to solid distribution and customer loyalty. We were completely sold out of bindings by December 1 this season and plan on “sticking to the same plan” for next season. Union will sell out, not close out.

http://business.transworld.net/30132/snow/union-binding-co-201011-binding-preview/

Transworld's CAPiTA 2010/11 Snowboard Preview

2010-01-25T11:48:00.001-05:00

At CAPiTA we enhance the snowboarding experience though innovative board designs that are easy to ride, easy to understand, and easy to sell. We’re not focused on ‘different,’ we’re focused on ‘better.’

http://business.transworld.net/29438/behind-the-lines/capita-201011-snowboard-preview/

CAPiTA SNOWBOARDS 2010/2011

2010-01-04T20:07:00.001-05:00

Happy Festivus/Kwanzaa/Christmas/Holidays!

2009-12-23T08:36:00.001-05:00

Snowshoe Consumer Demo -- Dec 20, 2009

2009-12-20T17:20:00.004-05:00

Folks were super STOKED! Not just on the CAPiTA Snowboards & UNION Bindings... but also on SANTA and Marian's amazing sausage dip -- Yeah!

My 10.5 hour drive to Snowshow, Dec 18, 2009

2009-12-19T13:05:00.002-05:00

I am a fan of video soundtracks...

Powder at Snowshoe, YEEHAW!

2009-12-19T12:27:00.002-05:00

SO STOKED!

My Friend, Max

2009-12-03T12:54:00.003-05:00

Max is the CAPiTA, UNION & COAL distributor in Ukraine. That's RUSSIA for all you stupid Americans (1 week in Paris and I'm an asshole. I know, sorry). Anyhow, Max here is my new best friend. For two years straight, Max has brought and shared the best vodka in the world. Last year, Max even brought Blue Montgomery an authentic KGB overcoat (incredibly illegal). I'm still not sure how Blue held back his tears. After drinking Max' vodka, I sure didn't hold back. Sorry for all the hugs, Max.

Best Food in Paris, France

2009-12-03T12:07:00.005-05:00

[honorable mention] The $1,000 seafood dinner at Le Dome (7 of us, 1st night)

[BRONZE metal] although I didn't personally eat it, 3rd place goes to the 16 inch long street meat & creamy potato sandwich that Emmett scarfed down. FYI, Emmett has an immense obsession with fine dining. While I was very moved by his sandwich, he was full of regret the second we walked by the Fat Liver sandwich vendor (see Foie Gras).

[SILVER metal] What I DID eat, however, was an amazing 3 hot dogs in 1 bun from a street vendor at the Winter Market. mmmmm, SO GOOD.

[GOLD metal] With groovy, high emotion, red carpet deep house music playing (at variable volumes, depending upon "the mood"), we all dined at BUDDHA BAR, across the street from the famous Ferris Wheel of looooooove. No pictures of the food, sorry. It was as dark as a nightclub and my iPhone (aka camera) has no flash.

But here's my critique:

1st course consisted of great table wine, fried egg rolls, steamed dumplings, and fried rice. 2nd thru 4th course consisted of more great table wine. Main course was fall-off-the-bone-then-suck-the-bone PORK SHORT RIBS. mmmmm. More great table wine. Dessert was a combination of coconut ice cream over chocolate biscotti bars, and an assortment of sorbet & sauces (thanks to Blue & Jenn). I must admit, GOLD metal easily goes to this dinner since I lucked up and sat next to Blue Montgomery through it all. For what I do and love, any time spent with Blue is worth GOLD.

Wee wee Pareeee

2009-11-30T13:02:00.002-05:00

In Paris for my CAPiTA, UNION & COAL sales meeting. Flew all night Saturday, arrived Sunday in time to hike all around. Went to dinner at some seafood restaurant where the bill was a Thousand fckn dollars. Poor Piatek got stuck with half the bill, Yo picked up the other half. I've never felt so poor in my life. I paid $5 for a coke, $11 for a beer, and $9 for an Eifel Tour trinket. Hiked all around the city today too. Now my American ass is hiding out in the hotel room sipping room temperature Duty Free Jack Daniels, waiting for dinner (hopefully paid for). Yikes.

The Snowboard Realms (Season 3, Episode 1)

2009-11-17T20:47:00.003-05:00

Dear TJ Schneider,

I sure hope The Snowboard Realms Season 3 is going to mix it up a little bit. To be perfectly honest, this Episode 1 looks exactly like the Snowshoe West By God Virginia Episode from last season's Realms. Exactly the same. Baker & Snowshoe. There, i said it.

ps. just kidding man. thanks again BIGTIME for coming.

love, no homo,
bradrulz

The Snowboard Realms Season 3 episode 1 from tj schneider SNOWBOARD REALMS VI on Vimeo.

Pharrell wears COAL "Frena" Beanie

2009-11-17T20:17:00.003-05:00

Pharrell proves it's cool to be N.E.R.D, and he wears COAL. Therefore COAL is cool. Thank you... yes, thank you.

http://www.complex.com/blogs/2009/11/17/how-to-dress-like-pharrell/

You ever seen UNION Force Bindings like this?

2009-10-29T19:43:00.002-04:00

Only at EAST COAST BOARD CO in Fairfax, VA! Great customization job Bryan, lil Nate, big Nate & Birdo! Three out of four of these DUDES also hooked themselves up with CAPiTA Ultrafears this year, as part of CAPiTA's Shop Super ProForm!

Conner Champion, downtown

2009-10-20T09:46:00.002-04:00

Snagged this one from the PINK CRACK KILLS dooodes...

connor downtown from CRAWL on Vimeo.

CAPiTA's Dan Brisse -- SLC Street Gap Video

2009-10-19T20:45:00.001-04:00

Dan Brisse road gap webisode from Absinthe Films on Vimeo.

Oh dear... sad, funny, sad... and funny

2009-10-17T14:26:00.001-04:00

North Carolina State Fair

2009-10-16T19:56:00.003-04:00

A fun-filled family gastrointestinal good time...

CAPiTA SNOWBOARDS new website launch!

2009-10-14T10:19:00.003-04:00

clicky clicky to cruise the new & improved CAPiTA Snowboards experience on the Information Superhighway, located on the world wide interweb...

http://www.capitasnowboarding.com/

Pretty encouraging RETAIL numbers, honestly...

2009-09-16T14:22:00.003-04:00

NRF: Retail Sales Up in Aug. for First Time in Six Months
SportsOneSource Media Posted: 9/15/2009

Retail sales, excluding automobile sales, saw its first gain in six months, a sign consumers may be turning the corner, according to the National Retail Federation. Retail sales rose 0.7% in August over July, but fell 4.3% from the same month last year.

Those figures do not include auto, gas and restaurant sales, a news release said. Retail sales including autos, gas and restaurants rose 2.7% for the month, but declined 5.9% for the year, according to the U.S. Commerce Department.

"Many American who traded in their vehicles have become saddled with monthly car payments, which reduces the amount of money they're able to spend in other areas," said Rosalind Wells, chief economist for the NRF. "As a result, it remains to be seen how the Cash for Clunkers program will impact traditional retail sales."

However, Wells is encouraged to see momentum building as retailers prepare for the holiday season.

Sales tax holidays throughout the country, which fell a bit later this year than last, helped boost August retail sales on traditional school merchandise such as apparel and electronics. Sales at electronics and appliance stores increased 1.1% seasonally adjusted over July and decreased 10.7% unadjusted year-over-year. Clothing and clothing accessory stores sales increased 2.4% adjusted from the previous month and decreased 5.9% unadjusted from last year.

Shoppers were a bit more comfortable digging into their wallets last month, and retailers are hopeful that we've turned a corner, said Rosalind Wells, Chief Economist of NRF. It is encouraging to see some momentum building as retailers anticipate the all-important holiday season.

Health and personal care store sales also saw solid increases with sales increasing 0.4 seasonally adjusted from last month and 2.7% unadjusted over last August. Sporting goods, hobby, book and music stores sales increased 2.3% adjusted over last month and decreased 1.7% unadjusted year-over-year.

Monkey joke

2009-09-02T10:00:00.002-04:00

East Coast Surfing Championship, Virginia Beach VA

2009-08-28T20:02:00.004-04:00

So this is my first time ever going to the ECSC, let alone being an exhibitor... JJ Catlett and I are posted up with a 10' x 10' DC SHOES tent, with an absolute TON of blow up beach balls, stickers, posters and promo goodies for the kids on the sand. Nearly every Action Sports Industry brand has a presence at this thing, and it's a sea of little "shaka brah" groms and gals. We're positioned directly in between the VIP scaffolding (thanks VANS for lunch, waters & treats) and the huge skateboard half pipe setup right on the sand. Here's a couple shots of the day today... enjoy!

SCENE 3 reopens in Lynchburg, VA!

2009-08-22T08:19:00.002-04:00

http://www.wset.com/news/stories/0809/651991.html?ref=rs

Lynchburg, VA - This week marked two months since the fire that destroyed the Jefferson Business Center. One business hard hit is getting back on its feet. You'll remember Scene 3 board shop didn't have insurance.

They had let it run out because they were planning to move. They lost tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise, but thanks to community support they're ready to reopen in a new location on Kemper Street.

"The first week after the fire my phone was ringing off the hook, people from everywhere were calling me, friends who are out in Colorado now, from California were calling," Scene 3’s owner Jeff Gray said.

After losing all their inventory in the fire, "Letters started coming in, random things in the mail, checks, people were bringing stuff to the house," Gray said. One big surprise was a box of boards from pro-skater Tony Hawk. One autographed by Tony himself. “It's pretty amazing." Thanks to people's generosity Gray is back in business and able to work again at his dream job. "I think I drew a poster in Middle School the teacher asked us what we wanted to do and I drew a skateboard shop poster," Gray said. What he ended up with was more than just a store. It's a place to hone up and meet up. "I think it's always been more of a community, a culture than a store," customer Ben Tucker said. And in a bigger space, with room to grow. "It's nice to have the shop again," Gray said.

On Saturday, Scene 3 is having a grand opening from 12:00 to 5:00 at 1315 Kemper Street. They'll have pizza, a band and some skate boarding games, and they'll have a drawing for that Tony Hawk autographed board.

C3 Super Pro - 09/10 PRODUCT CLINIC blog!

2009-07-31T11:15:00.006-04:00

Check it out! Get a jump on this year's CAPiTA Snowboards and UNION Bindings styles & tech specs. For consumers, go ahead and pick out what you want to spend your summer lawn-mowing money on. For shop kids/employees, get a jump on learning the specs so we can just drink beer during MY onsite clinic. HA!

C3 Super Pro PRODUCT CLINIC blog
Sorry about the crazy Canadians' accents -- Johan did his best to provide subtitles. (Alec & Karl, I love you guys)

Danny Way's NY Times article

2009-07-31T10:30:00.007-04:00

Congrats to Jake Brown for last night's Gold Medal on the X-Games' Super-Big-Hairy-Scary-Airy-Mega-Ramp competition!

Click to read the DC Shoes' bionic man NY Times article.
Danny, thanks for all you do for skateboarding!

DC SHOES' Nick Dompierre & Chaz Ortiz @ the Boston Dew Action Tour...

2009-07-31T10:24:00.003-04:00

as if my blog is even popular enough to "need" a reference, this footy directly links to TWS. Harumph, harumph...

Absinthe Films presents Neverland in 16mm HD

2009-07-28T10:36:00.002-04:00

Everytime I watch Absinthe videos, I always think back to my early career days, working alongside Justin Hostynek and crew at TWIST SNOWBOARD CLOTHING in San Francisco, CA... Justin has my utmost respect - homey's been making absolutely amazing photo & video production longer than most of today's snow-hucksters have been in the game. Power to you, Justin. Keep doing what you're doing!

Neverland by Absinthe Films from Absinthe Films on Vimeo.

CAPiTA's Dan Brisse on ESPN... clicky clicky!

2009-07-28T09:57:00.003-04:00

http://espn.go.com/action/news/story?id=4359043

VIDEOGRASS film teaser... Holden, DC, Coal, & tons of sponsors!

2009-07-23T21:33:00.004-04:00

VIDEOGRASS TEASER from VIDEOGRASS on Vimeo.

LOYAL LACES sold at EASTERN SKATEBOARD SUPPLY!

2009-07-11T07:21:00.003-04:00

So our little shoe string operation is taking off... Very stoked to announce our new distribution partner, EASTERN SKATEBOARD SUPPLY (http://www.easternskatesupply.com/). What an awesome opportunity to expand LOYAL LACES' distribution reach, all the while staying "loyal" to our skateboarding roots! We couldn't be happier!

You can still order LOYAL LACES direct with us, or simply tack-on what you need to your next EASTERN order! Stoked!

Take care!

Team LOYAL (JJ & BB)

http://loyallaces.com

Hello DC SHOES!

2009-07-11T07:15:00.002-04:00

Haven't posted in a while -- I've been extremely busy making the brand transition from ELEMENT to DC SHOES. Super stoked to be selling DC Shoes & Apparel now! New territory includes Washington DC, VA, WV, NC, SC, GA, AL. If you haven't heard from me in a while, it's not because i don't love you... give me a holler, or i'll be calling you very soon!

cheers!

brad bradley

DC Shoes

Southeast Territory Manager -- sounds pretty sweet, huh

ELEMENT "EDEN" Fall '09 Clothing...

2009-05-20T21:47:00.002-04:00

Element Eden FALL09 Collection Preview from ELEMENT EDEN on Vimeo.

Snip Snip followup...

2009-04-28T00:29:00.002-04:00

My groin still hurts.

I honestly thought the pain would slowly go away. But it's been almost a week and i still feel like i JUST got kicked in the groin. Hard.

And sorry for the graphic pic in my previous post. I blame the valluum. But it was worth grossing-out a couple friends & family members this week, haha!

Snip Snip...

2009-04-24T21:00:00.004-04:00

With three beautiful, healthy and amazing daughters, it wasn't a difficult decision for my wife and I to call it quits. So my wife researched and found the best vasectomy doctor around and set my appointment for me.

The two valluum I took didn't help very much. My scrotum is very personal to me, so needless to say it was the fear that stayed on my mind the entire time. I don't think anyone could imagine their scrotum being cut into and operated on, so perhaps it was the fear of the unknown. All the guys that HAVE HAD the procedure done told me "awe man, it's not that bad, really." A big part of me was convinced they were just flexing their machoism. Jerks.

So in the days, hours and minutes approaching the procedure, my nerves had my stomach spinning. I convinced myself that I was GOING TO GO THROUGH WITH IT, so the rest was just a nervous roller coaster ride. In the room, just after securing my penis out of the way for the doctor, the nurse assured me, "don't worry, it's just 6 minutes per testical and you're all done." The worst part of the entire process was the doctor's vice grip fingers. I guess he had to hold my testicals securely so they wouldn't move around as he did whatever mysterious things he was doing down there... I was trying not to think too much about the technical process so I wouldn't throw up allover the room. Right off the bat, the needles inserting into my scrotum definitely hurt. But that delivered the painkiller so I wouldn't feel the rest of the procedure: plucking, tugging, clamping, etc. All in all, like the nurse said, 12 looooong minutes and the doctor was done. Once the doctor left, the nurse and I talked as my bodily muscles relaxed from the clinching trauma of the previous few minutes. Then she leans in to whisper, "I don't know why they don't put you under for this procedure."

Gee, thanks. So here's my post procedural nutsack...

[ok ok, i removed the image of my puckered-up scrotum. sheesh]

[that sure was fun for a while, though. haha!]

LOYAL LACES says Happy 4/20/09, whatever that means...

2009-04-20T09:32:00.002-04:00

Check out LOYAL LACES' new & improved packaging! New wooden box option with sweet professional stickers made by Nigel @ Wright Labels (http://www.wrightlabels.com/). Email Nigel for all your marketing printing needs -- stickers, vinyl windows, panels, whatever (You're welcome for the plug, Nigel).

Also, Happy 4/20/09! Now get off the couch and DO SOMETHING today!

EARTH DAY "Pick Up The Parks" event(s)

2009-04-08T16:15:00.004-04:00

Join ELEMENT on Earth Day, Wednesday April 22nd for PICK UP THE PARKS 2009. ELEMENT (me and/or "I") will be on hand with biodegradable trash bags to clean up The Skatebarn Skatepark and give away prizes for random acts of cleanliness.
Join us for a day of sillyness and celebration!

click http://www.elementskateboards.com/events/EarthDay09/ for all ELEMENT EARTH DAY events across the country and in Canadia, wherever that is. ;-)

Doublewide Skate & Surf
The Skatebarn Skatepark (behind the shop)
14921 US HWY 17
Hampstead NC 28443