A New Paper in Town?

Recently, I came up with the idea of niche marketing The Rust Belt Chronicles. Sometimes success isn't about something new. It can be achieved by tweaking a common idea and staying ahead of the curve. Doing something better at the right time, place and cost.

Perhaps, I could turn The Rust Belt Chronicles into a free local news magazine and challenge the status quo or I could just continue my current blog format.

Part of my reasoning is due to the lack of offering of in-depth local news coverage of stuff that matters, including investigative reporting. I’ve observed the reduction of articles within our local paper to the point of charging for online viewing while offering less substantial local coverage with additional regional network “filler” stories. It wouldn’t be unrealistic to see our newspaper reduce production to fewer days a week, much like The Cleveland Plain Dealer has proposed.

Today, we live in a society with the so many options to choose from and most of the “breaking news” is instant. No need to wait for tomorrow’s newspaper delivery. Those days are long gone.

While the newspaper industry has shrunk considerably Internet sources have exploded. The masses aren’t dependent on a local newspaper delivery system. Few care enough to subscribe. So the solution may is to change the way we do business.

Given those circumstances my idea morphed into an entirely different style of newspaper. A free magazine/journal that consists of only the best local stories: heart-warming stories, investigative stories, articles that give the local public the “inside” skinny including: court proceedings, fines, divorce proceedings, building permits, titles/transfers, events and obituaries. Editorials and blogs would be included. The rest of the detail is short and pithy.

No need to go into details on sports or weather. Those interested in what the Cleveland Indians did last night already follow their favorite sources for details. If I am travelling to Nashville or planning a cook-out tomorrow my best source of weather advice isn’t going to be the local paper.

If you can’t offer a superior story why bother when other sources specialize in that media? It’s just added noise in a crowded arena. Why charge for substance that is mostly open source news anyway?

I had a couple of hurdles to overcome to make this project a reality.

Would advertisers respond by supporting a local news magazine contingent on reporting un-biased news contribute if The Rust Belt Chronicles didn’t cater to the “Good Ole Boy’s Club” in Mansfield, Ohio? I believe so.

 I am not interested in their deep pockets, power or position. Our ability to change from becoming the new “Rust Belt Capital of the World” is dependent on new leaders, thinkers and businesses to replace the selfless promotion of the few who continue to line their pockets while we deteriorate from within.

The deciding factor on whether to attempt this project is based on one factor:

Does the local public care enough to follow a free news magazine with a goal to turn this town around?  

Years ago, we manufactured great products for people that cared about quality. As time passed and choices increased fewer people cared about quality. Once manufacturers recognized the people didn’t care about quality, the standard became mediocre products in mass for people who didn’t care.

So, does a local news magazine produced by those who care interest you?

**********Write me or comment- I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Risk is Now the New Safe!

We see people in the workplace going through the motions, completing task after given task. A few of those folks take the time to add value to their work while most just see the cycle of repetition as a means to receive the next paycheck.  Sometimes it’s due to an overworked environment and less than optimal staffing; other times it’s a case of employees accepting mediocrity.

It amazes me how many employees are habitually lulled to pointless tasks just to appear busy at work. How you can spend years doing the same thing over and over and not somehow feel cheated.

Instead of being productive with your time and life, you allow your boss, company or yourself to trade your mind for a physical quest in exchange for a fee. For compliance and obedience your most valuable asset has been shutdown. This was the way of the Industrial Age.

The message has been sent that you aren’t able to do anything else in life. Accept your role, surrender your dreams and stay in line. It’s all about fitting in and being a team player, don’t make a ruckus, do what you are told, don’t ask questions. Consider yourself, lucky to even have a job!  

This conditioning ensures you will never attempt to break-out of the prison walls. Never thinking of your future, take a risk or recognize opportunity. The parameters become an accepted form of fate. It doesn’t have to be this way.  

We are all capable of doing remarkable feats far more than we ever imagined. If you’re not moving forward you’re running backwards. Don’t waste valuable time trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. We only get one life, don’t waste it on stupid stuff.

Life can be rewarding, fun and prosperous if we step outside the gates. Do what you’ve always dreamed about. Find a way, set goals and make it happen. Don’t wait for permission, do it now. Research your ideas on the internet, seek good advice from entrepreneurs, take a class, but start now.

The Industrial Age is dying. Being a compliant and obedient employee has always been a dime-a-dozen in numbers. That’s not living a meaningful life, nor does it bring success.

Be rare, unique, creative and motivated. That’s what the new frontier is about.

Risk is now the new safe!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Mansfield, Ohio - The Smoke is Clearing!

 

The 47 acts of Arson in Mansfield, Ohio have ceased for nearly a month. I raised a few eyebrows with some theories in my last blog. I’m happy to report through credible sources my thoughts are close to what transpired.

Since the smoke cleared, it's possible to read between the lines.


In fact, I may have hit the nail on the head!

• The fires were started by using a highly flammable accelerant.

•  As the investigation has deepened is it a coincidence the arson activities ceased?

• Were those acts of arson a significant reason for Mansfield, Ohio being awarded a 2.1 million dollar SAFER Grant?

• If folks are charged, were specific organization(s) involved or were the individual’s just seeking one of the 15 jobs to be created from the grant money?

As I stated in my last blog, the balking of accepting the SAFER Grant money (by a city that is nearly broke and a recent failed Safety Levy) leads me to wonder if city officials may suspect it would be embarrassing to accept the grant depending on how things shakedown.

I am also glad to hear State of Ohio Fire Officials have been assisting Capt. Amy McElvain in the investigation; I just wish their involvement would have come sooner.

Given Mansfield’s past history, let’s hope this case is solved quickly before the plot thickens.

Remember, you read it here first in The Rust Belt Chronicles.

Stay tuned!

Until We Meet Again,

 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”

Something Meaningful that Matters!

www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Lessons Learned in Commission Sales!

The local markets in Lexington, Ohio are no longer carrying my book. Sales through Wayne’s Country Market dissipated to the point of not justifying shelf space. 

The other shop basically ripped me off by losing  a portion of my sales money or failed to charge correctly on a half a dozen books. This was really disappointing since 10% of the sales were to be donated to the Lexington, Ohio High School Music Boosters and a relative of the store formerly served with the Music Boosters.

Previously in 2011, I was shorted on sales for the book perhaps due to the store offering another book being sold for $17.00 at the store. I had provided the store with flyers and posters and a plastic display case for the book; the owner claimed the staff must have charged incorrectly for the book. I reasoned it was no big deal. I would just absorb the small loss.

When I dropped by the store (this Spring) to view how the sales were going;  I still had two or three books out of a dozen left on display. The envelope of my earnings was missing of prior books sold. The owner didn’t offer to compensate anything for my loss. I was upset and surprised at the total lack of accountability from him. He blamed his clerks for not separating my money from the customers overall sales. The loss- $100.00.

I purposely walked out of the store, knowing a couple copies were still on display.

So earlier this week, I stopped by to see if the handling of the sales had improved. The owner looked down under the counter and said the last book was their forever, finally sold and he didn’t have any money from the sale. No apology- Nothing!

I walked out of the store disgusted.

It’s a shame this establishment given their history and connection to the community in Lexington, Ohio couldn’t have been accountable. I personally don’t recommend shopping at this establishment because they failed to honor a simple verbal agreement regarding commission sales.

The Good News!

I will compensate the 10% fund out of my own pocket for the lost or stolen money from those sales. In hindsight, I should have monitored sales closer early on, but given the reputation and connection to the boosters program I really didn’t expect this outcome or their inability to correct the problem.

Brent Stephenson of Wayne’s Country Market did a terrific job of selling my book, positioning my book within the store for optimal sales and keeping excellent track of sales by issuing a check for every dozen books sold. Given the volume of business Wayne's Country Market provides, Brent and the owners are outstanding people to work with! I highly recommend shopping at their market.

Meanwhile, I am offering a 25% Christmas Special Discount on:

 The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School Band of Gold.

Between now and December 25^th-
 
Send a check or money order for $24.00 (includes shipping) to:

Paradiddle Publishing

PO Box 984

Mansfield, Ohio 44903

This book is the perfect gift for the ex-Band of Gold member or simply anyone who wants to be inspired by motivation, perseverance, innovation, goals and success. Most importantly, it’s about the impact- one person can make in other’s lives.  

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

The Quest of a Writer!

Yesterday, I failed to post a blog. I really didn’t have anything gnawing at my soul to deliver to you, but as the night wore on- I was torn by not producing an article. The inability to create a little magic for a night made me feel like something was missing. Call it guilt or laziness, but it was anything except- a night of relaxation.

For me, it was another moment of realizing I am a writer.

It’s my love, journey and a quiet time to reflect, think or share. The chance to discover what determines how actions, relationships and ideas determine our reactions.

Searching to discover what’s behind the daily messages or noise by dissecting the moment and seeking truth. It’s about the moment of breaking down obstacles, underscoring lessons learned and engaging in tribulations with my readers. Writing is the opportunity to help others by giving back, educating and sharing hope, inspiration and insight.

This is what I love to do and my purpose for being here!

I am a writer, certainly not the best or worse. Better yet, I am a writer who cares and wants to make a difference. Sometimes reaching out where others will fail to venture. This is my calling, my passion to serve by attempting to do something meaningful and hopefully make a difference.

I hope it’s a legacy others follow. The quest to make an impact in people’s lives.

It is simply my gift to you!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Raw Opportunity Surrounds Us!

“You hit what you aim at, and if you aim at nothing you will hit it every time.” 

― Zig Ziglar (RIP)

Our eyes observe all sorts of activity daily in our surroundings. Choices are constantly marketed to us as we drive, walk, or journey through media channels. We are so busy ingesting the messages, we often don’t think to use our own imagination or envision a possibility towards the future. Visionaries like Zig Ziglar, Henry Ford, Bill Gates, or Steve Jobs are few and far between.

We often witness entire industries morph into something different without recognizing the opportunity to get involved. Culture captivates us to the point of being a participant player, instead of an instigator of change. Like it or not, Las Vegas is one city that re-invents itself every decade or so. It truly doesn’t sleep or stay content with current themes, barriers or extravaganza.

There’s no better time to start your own future than now!

What are you an expert in? What idea have you toyed with for years?

 Opportunity exists everywhere if we focus on what’s missing or needed. We don’t need another pharmacy on every corner, that replaced the old gas stations on every corner; but there is always a developing trend quietly sleeping waiting to become the “I wished I had thought of that, idea!”

Twenty years ago, sports card memorabilia became a rage until the market was purposely over saturated. Precious Moments, Betsy Clark, Cherished Teddies David Winter’s Cottages and TY Beanie Babies had a long run. Lots of income was generated off of the collectible industries. Those able to get in at the ground level could sustain a long-term business by becoming the leader in current trends.

Discovering your niche is half the battle. Finding your niche isn’t rocket science. What are you an expert in or follow passionately? What insight or value is currently missing in those businesses now?

Opportunity is only a problem away. Find some system needing improving and retool it. Spend time assessing a needed service or improving an existing service.

 Attempt to become the Ray Kroc of health food service. Improve the image and taste of a healthy diet food distinctly superior to other brands.  Become the best Biblical health website and forum for a coaching business. Do the work, build the clientele and watch your business grow!

Painting, woodworking, plumbing, and electrical businesses could expand into “how to seminars.” Help home owners cut costs by offering consulting services, evening hours, video services and classes live and expand online.

Being the first to offer expanded resources may seem risky but it is the added value the general public would be thankful for and keep you busy during traditional slow periods.

Your idea doesn’t have to be original. It only needs to enhance existing parameters. Envision the present status of an industry, object or business as version 1.0, not as a completed idea or finished product.

Start looking at everything as raw opportunity!

Life is an amusement park, waiting for the next trend, change or big idea.

This is the new frontier for those brave enough to dare, dream and care!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Larry Siegfried - Beyond a World Champion!

In the Industrial Age- gatekeepers and permission controlled the scene. If we thought of a new idea, the first question always asked of anyone- what channels we needed to jump through to make it happen. Often we were given a brief explanation of “you can’t" or “it’s too costly” or discovered the idea was governed by a third party and if you had no association; the idea, thought or desire was dead in the water.

We were programmed to believe it wasn’t worth the time to attempt something new, unique or remarkable. Those parameters are slipping away and those businesses are dying- a slow death.

Today, it’s about trust, honesty and caring for the customer. The realization that the heart of the business is the customer/employee relationship is the new approach to successfully running a business. The top-down management theory is dying a painful death across America.

Successful Business Strategy

Former Ohio State/ Boston Celtic basketball player, Larry Siegfried, taught this principle for success 25 years ago after retiring from basketball and offering consulting services to businesses and State Prison inmates. Larry was decades ahead of the times, his total reversal of management style brought back something missing in corporate management and how people are treated. His bottom-up management philosophy produced some very interesting results.  

Inmates who followed his teachings of respect, dignity, and honesty not only remained out of the prison system, many prospered by becoming entrepreneurs. The motivational speeches I had the pleasure of witnessing were stunning, refreshing and contagious. 

Mr. Siegfried’s analogy turned some businesses off, they couldn't accept change. The drastic approach broke down the foundation of the top-down management theory. It basically operated on “The Golden Rule” and Christian based-principles. A simple, effective approach with a solid motive for everyone involved. Control, dictate and fabrication are nowhere to be found in this approach.

The role of management is to accentuate the experience, massage the outcome and empower the employees to do the right procedure based on the principles taught.

This unique and remarkable customer service experience provided is the idea that spreads.

World Champion On or Off the Court

I wish Larry Siegfried had published a book on the principles he stood for, lived by and gave to us. I somehow believe the accumulation of those ideas originated through his Mother, Sunday school teachings,his coach at Ohio State(Fred Taylor), the Boston Celtics organization, family and his life adventures of success. Although he is not properly credited for advancing this philosophy of change, I can’t help but think his idea slowly spread prior to the days of the Internet.

 And Larry is warmly smiling down on us- right now!

Thank you Larry!

Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver

Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com

http://jimcarver.blogspot.com/

Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.