MWGblog

The Balcony is Closed. The Siskel and Ebert (and Roeper) program has left the building.

After much speculation, it is official. I’ve tossed my hat in the ring.

Hat tip to Paul Colligan for the pointer.

(Will & Nick model their Trunkis)

The Trunki has got to qualify as one of the all time greatest purchases my Wife has made. When I first saw these I was skeptical, but after our recent trip to Hawaii, I am sold. These are a must-have for parents who travel with young children. They are hard plastic suitcases with 4 wheels and leash. Built for carry-on use, they fit perfectly under the airline seat in front. Because of their design, kids can manage them eliminating the need for Mom or Dad having to wrangle the kids’ carry-ons. They have three basic modes of use: a leash that allows the kids to pull them, the ability for the kids to “ride” them powered by their feet and finally if the kids get tired, they can ride while someone else pulls the leash. (For adults, the leash also converts to a shoulder strap)

On our trip, the kids loved the fact they had their own luggage that they were responsible for. However, what blew me away was the spectacle the Trunkis caused at the airports. We constantly had people coming up and asking what they were are where to get them - everyone from the flight attendants and gate agents to our fellow travelers. For those too shy to approach us, you could hear them pointing us out and discussing our kids’ suitcases, it was an interesting experience. The pictures do not do these justice, once you see kid’s use them, you’ll want one. Whoever invented these things has nailed it. Kid friendly and parent approved. If you are going to travel with young children check out the Trunki.

I was cleaning some photos off my hard drive and found this one of me with Tito Ortiz at a fundraiser a few years back. (Just posting it so I can refer to it later.)

I first posted about the ADM on April 17th. They had just released their “Advertisement Unit Standards and Downloadable Measurement Guidelines.” I got a lot of heat for my “critical” comments. (My Post is here.) Interestingly, apart from 3 quick puff pieces on April 18, 22 & 23 the ADM has gone silent. If this was such a monumental achievement why have they gone quiet for 2 months?

Again, my criticism is simple, there is a lack of leadership in the ADM. They acquiesced to a bunch of Venture Funded companies who - given recent activity - can’t figure out exactly what they do - much less lead an industry trade group. I wonder where your $1000 or $150 went?

Some might say I’m against the ADM - not at all. I like the basic premise though I have to admit, a bit of “I told you so” comes to mind. Anyone who wishes to criticize my comments, make sure you first address the over 60 days of silence from this “game changing” trade group.

Update: For the record, I like those who are in management positions in the ADM, my honest opinion is they realize they need to focus on keeping their startups afloat rather than the trade organization. I am curious - given the anniversary, will most members be quick to pay this year’s fee?