This is where you try to paint yourself in a box. That's not going to happen here. Sometimes I wander beyond the lines of a typical copywriter. I dabble in content strategy, search, etymology, branding, research, history, green technology, alternative fuels - and a whole lot more. Hope it's an enjoyable read.
As a Scoutmaster, I often get questions regarding our trailer when we go to Scouting events - so here is a rundown of our trailer in case anyone else is interested.
Troop 192 bought the Featherlite Model 1610 aluminum trailer used from Craigslist a few years back. Our former Scoutmaster researched quite awhile to find this one with a concession door. I think we paid about $2500 for it at the time. I’ve seen the MSRP list for about $13K, with sale prices new about $9K. We sold our old trailer for about $1,000 to offset the costs. Our troop has an annual pop can drive that helped pay for the balance.This unit has dome lights, 12v light, etc.
We modified the concession
door to make it a pantry and added a pullout cork board for duty rosters
and camp info.
Weight
according to a flyer found online is 1,850, but that doesn’t include
the shelving inside (metal and wood). With all of our gear, I’m guessing
it weighs around 6-7,000 lb. This unit has dome lights, 12v light, etc.
I took the photos. We wanted to show our boys in action, but without
the faces, so it would be a promotion of Boy Scout in general and now
just our troop. We happened to have some parents in our troop that
worked in the sign industry at SignGraphix - they helped with the design
and really made this a reality. Graphics Communications in Shelby
Township installed the vinyl. Cost for the printing and installation was
about $2,200.
I consulted with the Marketing Communications Director from the Great Lakes Field Service Council and the National office regarding high-resolution graphics. Council was able to secure a higher res .eps file for one of the logos.
The pantry really sets this trailer apart and makes an ideal setup by our dining fly. It really helps in kitchen prep and provides easy access to a lot of key items for food prep and essential cooking items.
A big thanks to our troop and committee members for supporting this
long-term vision for promoting our troop in the Southeastern Michigan
area.
Once in a while I run into someone who shares that their Wrangler doors are hard to close. I just smile. That's a good thing. It tells me their new to the whole Jeep thing and just need a little insight to why Wrangler doors are different. In a Wrangler form follows function. There are many unique features on a Wrangler / Wrangler Unlimited with a hardtop that set it apart from all other vehicles:
The relatively lightweight doors are removable for open-air driving, and lighter weight doors require more effort to close.
Keeping things simple, Wrangler doors only utilize a check strap in lieu of a heavy mechanical system which aids in closing effort.
The door opening has no weather seal so you have a clean opening for entry and exit from your Wrangler. The door has a seal with some rubber inserts that helps keep out the wind and water in some challenging locations, such as where the windshield header, hardtop Freedom Panel and door all come together.
So there you have it. Long story short - Jeep engineers had to decide what was more important: an easy to close door, or a door that would seal out the wind and water. They chose the latter. So next time you close the door on your Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited give a little bit more effort as you enjoy your purpose built adventure machine. And enjoy the ride.
Check out these amazing videos of the Tucker Combat Vehicle
(TCV). It certainly has many features that were advanced for the World War II
era. If you’ve seen Francis Ford Coppola’s movie “Tucker: the man and his dream”
– you’ll realize the man was a genius of design and innovation.
Tucker saw that war was on the horizon in Europe and began
designing for a high-speed armored combat vehicle as early as 1939. Tucker was
born in 1903 on a Michigan peppermint farm. Tucker returned to Michigan and worked
out of a barn in Ypsilanti to develop his ingenious inventions.
Some of his
unique creations include the use of individual wheel brakes – what we refer
today as Antilock Brakes or Brake Lock Differentials (03:54 mark), arc welded steel armor plate (00:08), same-size swappable bulletproof windows (00:28 mark), air
conditioning in the battlefield (09:21), bulletproof and multi-chambered radiator (01:25 mark), adjustable headlights (00:53), and a V-style hull to protect gas tank (10:09).
The Tucker Combat Car also had one of the most wicked camo paint jobs around.
Highlights from the 1942 video clip regarding the Tucker
Combat Vehicle:
“It is constructed entirely of steel armor plate, welded
together by a new method which completely eliminates all riveting.”
“Large windshield and windows of bulletproof glass afford
exceptionally wide and unobstructed vision and can withstand heaviest machine
gun fire.”
“All windows are of one size and instantly changeable.”
“Specially designed headlamps, also of bulletproof glass, are
capable of throwing a beam one mile and are individually adjustable so as to be
usable as searchlights.”
“Quickly removable hood gives complete accessibility to
engine.”
“The bulletproof radiator shield is so designed that it need
not be closed. Each section can be instantly replaced when damaged.”
“The huge pneumatic tires are completely bullet-proof, each
capable of withstanding fifty caliber- .50 machine gun bullets.”
“The Combat Car is capable of speeds in excess of 100 miles
per hour on paved highways and 65 miles per hour over rough terrain.”
“Because of advanced chassis construction, it can withstand
heaviest strains and shocks of rough terrain.”
“Its low center of gravity assures perfect stability up to 45
degrees tipping angle.”
“The Combat Car is armed with a forward battery of three
machine guns and an American Armament of 37-mm. anti-aircraft gun or anti-tank
gun, mounted in a revolving turret.”
“This armament is capable of laying down a withering fire at
the combined rate of 2,820 shots a minute.”
“The turret gun has a 360°
traverse and a 75°
angle of elevation.”
“The unit can also be furnished with electric controls in
place of, or in addition to, manual elevating and traversing controls. The
electric device has a speed range from creeping motion to 360° in ”
4.6 seconds.
“It is fully automatic and fires 37-mm. explosive projectiles
against airplanes or armor-piercing projectiles against tanks.”
“Bracketing and hitting aerial targets. Note tracer which
indicates path of projectile.”
“Demonstrating efficiency of its armor-piercing projectiles
against steel armor plate.”
“Perfect visibility enables drivers to avoid tank traps and
defenses.”
“Forced air conditioning eliminates crew discomfort and
dangers of flame attack.”
“Perfect spring suspension affords maximum riding comfort
and stability, assuring high accuracy of fire while in motion.”
“The crew is fully protected against any explosion of the
gasoline tank by heavy armor plate and by a device which directs the force of
explosive outward.”
“Engine compartment louvres are so placed as to act as
windshield defrosters.”
“The Combat Car has a 12-inch clearance and its bottom is
completely armor plated against bombardment or damage from attacks.”
“The unit has provisions for dual rear wheels, four-wheel
drive and caterpillar tracks.”
“A fleet of Combat Cars at Rahway plant, fully tested and
ready for delivery.”
Testing of the TCV was done at the Rahway, New Jersey
factory owned by the
American Armament Corporation. Harry Miller, a Tucker
employee would take some of Tucker’s suspension designs and apply them at
Bantam where he helped in the development of the first Jeep prototype vehicle.
Sadly Tucker’s original fast-moving armored car design
wasn’t mass-produced because the Belgian government that commissioned his
services was invaded by the Nazis before production could begin. The U.S.
Military rejected the concept because it was too fast to be safe. In addition
the contracts were already awarded by the time they tested the vehicle.
According to LEF magazine His revolutionary plexi-glass gun turret that was eventually used on the B-17
Flying Fortress, the B-24 Liberator and other American bombers. The “Tucker
Turret” was even used by the Navy on many of its PT boats and landing ships.
Advertising during World War II could often be very strong. Ad agencies had to tread a thin line between promoting patriotism and the war effort and bald-faced braggadioco look-what-we-did promotion.
This boastful in-your-face brag ad was produced by J. Walter Thompson for the Philco Corporation. W.H. Crawford, the illustrator, used a reverse V sign as a severe insult to the enemy.
According to - the gesture was one step away from flipping the bird. The European community was familiar with the sign as it meant, "F#@? You", or "Up Yours."
According to historian Juliet Barker in her Book, Agincourt: Henry V and the Battle That Made England (2006), King Henry V included references to the french cutting off longbowman's fingers. The two-fingered salute, or "longbowman salute" was a jab at the French to show the English were still going strong.
I especially like Philco's pledge to soldiers of industry in the second paragraph, "More-Better-Sooner." Nice slogan.
Today the symbol is used my many on the web as a friendly or nice gang sign. For those who want to be cool, but not want to flash the wrong sign.
For more on the V sign and it's many meanings - visit Wiki.
Image approved for research purposes only. Part of the Duke Library Digital Collection - J. Walter Thompson Advertising Collection.
Mass held on the battlefield by a Catholic priest for American soldiers from the 80th "Blue Ridge" Division. Oftentimes a flat Jeep hood served as a chaplain's altar.
Image courtesy of Photos Normandie - Patrick Peccatte & Michel Le Querrac - scanned images from the U.S. National Archives. Part of the Creative Commons.
Bullet holes in the windshield of this Jeep are a testament to the faithful service of the Medics of the 84th Division as they evacuate wounded soldiers in their makeshift Jeep ambulance.
The Medics are carrying two soldiers wrapped up in blankets to keep them warm in the frigid cold. The litters are strapped to a makeshift frame attached to the flat-hooded Jeep 4x4.
This Jeep caravan was part of the 1st Battalion, 334th Infantry Regiment. Image was taken on January 9th, 1945.
Thanks to Kathleen for posting this Creative Commons image from the Otis Historical Archives in the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
I'm thankful for the many soldiers that put themselves in harms way for the sakes of others. For those who risk their lives for our freedom.
The versatile Jeep with its flat hood and 4WD traction served as a perfect makeshift ambulance for Medics bringing injured soldiers back from the front lines.
Medics of the 84th Division bring casualties back on their Jeep, near Samres, Belgium. They were part of the 1st Battalion 334th Infantry Regiment. Image was taken January 13, 1945.
Thanks to Kathleen for posting this Creative Commons image from the Otis Historical Archives in the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
You can see the power cord for the chain saw coming over the shoulder of the guy in the white fire coat. This image was from a public relations photo op to highlight the benefits of the CJ-3A for forestry and brush fire purposes. The shot was taken in 1949 and was included in a press release from Willys-Overland Motors.
The caption read: With the forest fires now completely under control, the forester with walkie-talkie on right reports on mopping up operations while a Jeep-powered chain saw is used to cut a burning log. The Jeep will drag unburned logs across a fire lane as water crews extinguish the lat spark in the burned-out area.
Great shot - love the 4 Wheel Drive callout on the back of the CJ-3A. The Jeep CJ-3A, with it versatile power take off (pto), was promoted for service in a variety of arenas. This press release was highlighting the benefits of a Jeep 4x4 in forestry to help with fire suppression. The pto was used to power up a chain saw and help drag felled trees away from the burn zone. This image was taken in 1949 and distributed by the Willys-Overland Motors company of Toledo, Ohio.
The caption read: Danger of crown fires, dread of forest fire-fighters, is averted as burning snags are felled in the fire area. With speed the vital factor in keeping the fire small and damage slight, a chain saw, operated by the power of the Jeep engine, is used in cutting down the trees.
The 2005 Jeep Gladiator Concept Vehicle seems to be making its way back in the press again. Jeep CEO Mike Manley showed dealers a version of this multipurpose vehicle (aka "pickup truck") at a dealer meeting in Orlando, Florida last year. Its expected that production of a Jeep exotic will begin in the third quarter of 2011, and be badged as a 2012.
My art director partner, Dennis Outlaw and I created this Auto Show Flyer/Brochure when we worked at BBDO Detroit on the Jeep Creative team.
The 2005 Jeep Gladiator Concept Vehicle seems to be making its way back in the press again. In January, Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne said the Jeep brand would be releasing a "multipurpose" vehicle that will have a pickup-like bed in the back. That kind of jives with this flyer.
My art director partner, Dennis Outlaw and I created this 2005 Auto Show Brochure when we worked at BBDO Detroit on the Jeep Creative team.
SO UNIQUE, IT DEMANDED A CATEGORY ALL ITS OWN.
When we produced this flyer in 2005, we were tasked to keep the Gladiator out of the truck category - ultimately calling it a "Flexible Utility Truck."Thankfully this last line may hold true:
This authentic statement of Jeep brand heritage is but a glimpse of the direction the brand could go in the near future.
No comment on the word "near." The Gladiator Concept Vehicle relied heavily on the Wrangler front grille. An integrated front recovery winch was a nice touch. We'll have to see how closely it lines up with the real thing once it launches later this year. The new multipurpose exotic Jeep (sort-of pick-truck) 4x4 will most likely be sold internationally as well.Copy from the flyer:
A category all its own - the Jeep® Gladiator concept vehicle is the first "Flexible Utility Truck," a mid-size alternate with a max-size appetite for more. Go ahead, get a second helping. With Gladiator's expandable bed you can stretch from 5'8" to 6'8" to 8'11" in a matter of minutes. You never know when an extra foot of truck-bed space will come in handy. A dent-resistant Durabed Bedliner and multiple tie-down help tether gear should you be trailering an F5 twister.
A trick driver-side rear-seat access hatch allows for easy retrieval of stowed gear. Under the side-mounted spare is a bottle jack stored in a military-style watertight box.
Peel back the canvas top partially, or remove it completely, for a huge sky/moon/star roof. Hauling a 4'x8' drywall in a mid-size? Sure! Gladiator's rear-seat stows away beneath the truck bed, and a slide-down rear glass and lowered tailgate instantly reward the user with over 8'11" of bragging rights.
Key Features of the Jeep Gladiator Concept Vehicle:
If the Chinese business man Wang Chuanfu's goal is to lull us to sleep - he has succeeded. The styling is mundane and lackluster. But beware - under the hood of this dragon is Wang's deep desire to be China's top automaker by 2015. He plans on being #1 in the world by 2025. Unreasonable? Think again.
Build Your Dream (BYD) sold 450,000 vehicles in 2009 alone. China is pushing hard to "Go inland." That is - to sell in China first - then conquer the foreign lands. Vehicle sales are skyrocketing - The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers reported auto sales in second (41%) and third-tier (51%) cities surged for the first 9 months of 2009. Once fortified in China - watch out for the U.S. takeover.
BYD's display didn't have singers, dancers or any showstopping entertainment. But if there were one company to take note of this year - it is BYD. Sure they have to learn our culture and cater to our style and American needs (like large cupholders). But good design can be acquired as seen by Hyundai - when they hired Joel Piaskowski. In fact, Piaskowski was wooed away from Hyundai to Mercedes early last year.
BYD is the largest supplier of cell phone batteries in the world. Combine the worldly know-how with visionaries like Warren Buffet, who recently made a 10% investment in the nascent company and you can just see a glimmer of what's to come. When electric turns the corner in the states, BYD will be there.
There might even be an electric vehicle for sale by the end of 2010. With up to 205 miles between charges, and torque that rivals a Ford F-150 pickup truck, the e6 may have just enough performance for American's to overlook the dull appearance. Time will tell.
The clear voice of infographics is better than a cacophony of eloquent experts expousing their elegant financial crisis theories. The flowchart has grown up - check out flowingdata.com for more.
What's more social than a Ladies Tea? I found this wonderful site through a digital back door or sorts. A friend on Facebook forwarded a clever "Original Design Gangsta" video she found on YouTube. The video, produced in 2007, was good enough to keep my attention until the credits ... www.kyletwebster.com. Thought I'd check it out. Nice clean site - my attention was drawn to a plug on his site: "Noteworthy - My wife's BRILLIANT networking idea for women."
Click on it and it takes you to theladiestea.com created by Kyle's wife Sonja Webster (Bunzendahl). Brilliant it is. Beautiful design and a wonderful concept that blends a traditional social network idea (ladies teas) and brings it into the digital domain.
An excerpt from the FAQs page:
"The Ladies Tea provides quality lady-time that will inevitably open new doors for you. When you get a diverse group of open-minded and positive women together, so much can happen: a new friendship, an idea, a job opportunity, a valuable life lesson… host The Ladies Tea and see! Hosting The Ladies Tea definitely makes a positive statement about you and your interests. It says that you are a modern and classy lady, eager to network with other ladies who want the most out of life and are open to new ideas."
Who wouldn't want to be modern, classy and want the most out of life? Any time my wife comes back from a Ladies Tea she's happy. Anything that brings happiness at a minimal cost is bound to succeed in today's world. Sugar anyone?
The Palm Pre promises to be effortlessly blend a sea of social networks into one easy-to-use device. We did something similar at the Jeep brand when we pooled all the social media sites into one hub. The innovative Jeep Experience portal is the collective home to Flickr, YouTube, Facebook, MySpace and more. It's your one-stop-shop for everything Jeep.
Now Skittles has launched skittles.com and it's based on a floating navigation menu that remains the same regardless of the social media site your on. Instead of importing videos or photos to their site, or linking the user out to Flickr, or YouTube - the navigation follows you on your path to social serenity. While this navigation system won't work for most applications - it is a strong hint at things to come in the future in regards to fluid infrastructure and seamless integration to social networks. Bravo to the Media Planner who bought into this elegant experiment.
We modified the concession
door to make it a pantry and added a pullout cork board for duty rosters
and camp info.
I consulted with the Marketing Communications Director from the Great Lakes Field Service Council and the National office regarding high-resolution graphics. Council was able to secure a higher res .eps file for one of the logos.
