fc_
06-04-09, 05:51 AM
Congrats bdinger on your writeup (http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt) in the Journal Star this morning! :D
Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - Hey! We have a celebrity!!!
Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.View Full Version : Hey! We have a celebrity!!!
Alathea
06-04-09, 05:56 AM
Missed it by THAT much!
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
bautieri
06-04-09, 06:05 AM
Crap, the link won't work at work *shakes a tiny fist at the web filter*
Copy and paste please!!!!!!
Copy and paste please!!!!!!
fc_
06-04-09, 06:11 AM
here ya go.....
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
bautieri
06-04-09, 06:14 AM
here ya go.....
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
Content of the article please :)
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
Content of the article please :)
txvintage
06-04-09, 06:51 AM
Sorry Bau, I can't seem to copy it withough copying all the advertisements and tags in the window.
bdinger
06-04-09, 07:20 AM
Bau, what's your email address? I can email you a copy - pasting from the Journal Star is next to impossible thanks to the already-referenced ads :)
Also - thanks everyone!!! :) I had a blast doing the interview, and it was fun to meet a reporter who also "lives the life" (she's a commuter as well). And she's also correct, my adrenaline was pumping so I had to keep going "don't drop the reporter, Ben..." LOL
Also - thanks everyone!!! :) I had a blast doing the interview, and it was fun to meet a reporter who also "lives the life" (she's a commuter as well). And she's also correct, my adrenaline was pumping so I had to keep going "don't drop the reporter, Ben..." LOL
txvintage
06-04-09, 07:33 AM
Hey, when is your Dirty Kanza 200?
bdinger
06-04-09, 07:40 AM
Hey, when is your Dirty Kanza 200?
It was last weekend, unfortunately. Here (http://www.chubbysuperbiker.com/2009/05/lemons-1-me-0.html) is the reason I didn't go (long story short, we had a financial perfect storm that just wouldn't let up, and I wasn't going to dip into savings or start racking up credit card bills to go). In the end, it might not have been a bad thing - here's a blog post (http://cornbreadblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/dirty-kanza-200-may-30-2009.html) from a local racer who's much more fit than I, who barely finished due to some spectacularly brutal conditions.
However, I'm signed up for the Good Life Gravel Adventure 135 miler in late august, and there's no way I'm missing that. Some kind of sadistic fun, it is.
It was last weekend, unfortunately. Here (http://www.chubbysuperbiker.com/2009/05/lemons-1-me-0.html) is the reason I didn't go (long story short, we had a financial perfect storm that just wouldn't let up, and I wasn't going to dip into savings or start racking up credit card bills to go). In the end, it might not have been a bad thing - here's a blog post (http://cornbreadblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/dirty-kanza-200-may-30-2009.html) from a local racer who's much more fit than I, who barely finished due to some spectacularly brutal conditions.
However, I'm signed up for the Good Life Gravel Adventure 135 miler in late august, and there's no way I'm missing that. Some kind of sadistic fun, it is.
Alathea
06-04-09, 07:43 AM
Chubby Super Biker has calves the size of cantaloupes, a bike called a Surly and a wife who tells him to get on it and ride when he gets cranky.
His real name is Ben Dinger. I’ve chatted with him on the phone. I’ve read his blog — www.chubbysuperbiker.com — and I know a few things about him from his home page.
Just a 31 year old guy with three kids, beautiful wife, two cats, and a minivan. Used to weigh 567 pounds, now I just love to ride my bike.
[+]Enlarge
Story Photo
Ben Dinger, who once weighed 567 pounds, writes about his bicycle adventures in his blog, www.chubbysuperbiker.com. (Robert Becker)
Story Photo
Ben Dinger, who once weighed 567 pounds, writes about his bicycle adventures in his blog, www.chubbysuperbiker.com. (Robert Becker)
Related Link(s):
Who wouldn’t want to meet a guy who could write a line like that?
Who wouldn’t want to find out how a super chubby guy became a chubby super biker? (Who wouldn’t want to just say “Chubby Super Biker” over and over again?)
We meet Wednesday on a Lincoln bike trail.
And pretty soon we’re heading west on the Billy Wolf. He’s got 215 pounds on me but I can’t keep up.
Sometimes he gets “the look” when he’s out on his Surly all geared up, says Ben, now 32 and weighing in at 350 — give or take an extra slice of pepperoni pizza.
The look that says: Slow Fat Guy.
Most of the time he has three words for those people as he passes them: On your left.
Ben didn’t lose all his weight on the seat of a bike — but he took off the last 105 that way and found a new joy in life (and a wife and three kids) as he pedaled along.
He was always husky, says the Web master who moved to Lincoln when he was 5. He weighed in at linebacker size (240 or so) when he graduated from high school. Post-Pius X, he packed on the weight and eventually quit keeping track.
“I knew I was big,” says Ben. “I knew I could no longer fit in an airplane seat.”
He knew he couldn’t walk the block and a half to work. He knew he had to get a second-floor apartment because he couldn’t climb to the third.
He knew he was maxing out the big and tall man store in the Size-70 waist pants he couldn’t even button.
“You know those fat guys who wore the shirt that was a little too short, but he didn’t know it and his stomach showed? That was me.”
But he didn’t know, until the day he walked into a local weight loss clinic, how big big was.
His sister had begun Optifast, a medically supervised program, and she talked him into an appointment.
How much do you think you weigh? the staff asked.
Ben ventured a guess. 400?
Maybe 425.
He stepped on the scale, one of those big suckers, the kind for weighing freight, or cattle.
567? 567 pounds?
It took him two years to say the number out loud. But he signed up for the program that day. The weight flew off and he started feeling good.
The first time he tried to exercise he collapsed after 15 minutes on the treadmill.
“I went home, passed out at 7:30 and was late for work the next morning.”
Ben is laughing. That was four years ago.
And one summer day last year he rode his bike 135 miles. Up and down gravel roads. Sunup to sundown.
He wrote about that on his blog, too. He writes and writes about his bicycle adventures.
In the beginning he had a blog to let friends and family know about his weight loss progress. Optifat, he called it.
Along the way he was injured in a car accident, packed on some pounds and ended up picking up his brother’s old mountain bike.
“I got on the MoPac and within five seconds I was grinning and smiling. It was like my childhood came back in those few seconds.”
He started Chubby Super Biker a few months later. He started dating a woman named Jessica, too. They married in September 2007 (he rode his bike to the wedding). He’s adopting her two kids and they have a toddler together. They just bought a house. He’s nearly finished with college. He has a job he loves.
“He took it to heart, the whole lifestyle change,” says biking buddy Oliver Banta. “He’s just inspiring to people who need some motivation.”
Ben says he couldn’t imagine any of this four years ago.
He’s learned a lot. That’s why he started the blog. Not just to rave about biking, but to let people know anything is possible.
“Like right now, I’m still 350 pounds, I still have probably 150 pounds to go. It’s daunting.”
He’s gained weight, he says. And lost it again. But he keeps looking forward.
Each year he hopes he weighs a little bit less and rides his bike a little bit more.
We ride Wednesday. Against the wind and then with it, pushing us back home. I say goodbye east of downtown, watching Chubby Super Biker — a super nice guy — heading for the edge of town.
There’s a picture of Ben at his heaviest on his blog. A huge guy in a ball cap, spilling over a chair, looking down.
I used to cringe at that picture. I hated that picture. Now I kinda dig it, you know?
You know what else I dig? My bike. I rode it today. It missed me. I missed it...
Life is good. Very very good.
-------------------------------------------------------BLOG POST EXTRACT------------------------------------------------
www.chubbysuperbiker.com/
More from Cindy in the Lincoln Life blog
On Ben Dinger's blog: Before and after photos
Excerpt from the blog of the Chubby Super Biker, Ben Dinger:
Now I get it, the stress we all live in, it pushes us to everything that isn't good. We don't have time, so we eat junk and eat lots of it because - let's be honest here -- whilst eating it, it makes us feel good. We buy big cars and houses because they make us feel good, and feel like that money is going to something, money earned under constant stress to continue to produce so as to continue to earn to continue to buy and continue to eat. In the end we feel empty, so we find things that "take too much time" or "hurt too much" and get rid of 'em, so we can work more and buy more things. And we get more empty. I know I was.
We forget how pure, how great it feels to look to the sky as the legs just blur beneath you, the accomplishment of pushing yourself further than you've pushed before and man the feeling of that is better than anything money can buy.
His real name is Ben Dinger. I’ve chatted with him on the phone. I’ve read his blog — www.chubbysuperbiker.com — and I know a few things about him from his home page.
Just a 31 year old guy with three kids, beautiful wife, two cats, and a minivan. Used to weigh 567 pounds, now I just love to ride my bike.
[+]Enlarge
Story Photo
Ben Dinger, who once weighed 567 pounds, writes about his bicycle adventures in his blog, www.chubbysuperbiker.com. (Robert Becker)
Story Photo
Ben Dinger, who once weighed 567 pounds, writes about his bicycle adventures in his blog, www.chubbysuperbiker.com. (Robert Becker)
Related Link(s):
Who wouldn’t want to meet a guy who could write a line like that?
Who wouldn’t want to find out how a super chubby guy became a chubby super biker? (Who wouldn’t want to just say “Chubby Super Biker” over and over again?)
We meet Wednesday on a Lincoln bike trail.
And pretty soon we’re heading west on the Billy Wolf. He’s got 215 pounds on me but I can’t keep up.
Sometimes he gets “the look” when he’s out on his Surly all geared up, says Ben, now 32 and weighing in at 350 — give or take an extra slice of pepperoni pizza.
The look that says: Slow Fat Guy.
Most of the time he has three words for those people as he passes them: On your left.
Ben didn’t lose all his weight on the seat of a bike — but he took off the last 105 that way and found a new joy in life (and a wife and three kids) as he pedaled along.
He was always husky, says the Web master who moved to Lincoln when he was 5. He weighed in at linebacker size (240 or so) when he graduated from high school. Post-Pius X, he packed on the weight and eventually quit keeping track.
“I knew I was big,” says Ben. “I knew I could no longer fit in an airplane seat.”
He knew he couldn’t walk the block and a half to work. He knew he had to get a second-floor apartment because he couldn’t climb to the third.
He knew he was maxing out the big and tall man store in the Size-70 waist pants he couldn’t even button.
“You know those fat guys who wore the shirt that was a little too short, but he didn’t know it and his stomach showed? That was me.”
But he didn’t know, until the day he walked into a local weight loss clinic, how big big was.
His sister had begun Optifast, a medically supervised program, and she talked him into an appointment.
How much do you think you weigh? the staff asked.
Ben ventured a guess. 400?
Maybe 425.
He stepped on the scale, one of those big suckers, the kind for weighing freight, or cattle.
567? 567 pounds?
It took him two years to say the number out loud. But he signed up for the program that day. The weight flew off and he started feeling good.
The first time he tried to exercise he collapsed after 15 minutes on the treadmill.
“I went home, passed out at 7:30 and was late for work the next morning.”
Ben is laughing. That was four years ago.
And one summer day last year he rode his bike 135 miles. Up and down gravel roads. Sunup to sundown.
He wrote about that on his blog, too. He writes and writes about his bicycle adventures.
In the beginning he had a blog to let friends and family know about his weight loss progress. Optifat, he called it.
Along the way he was injured in a car accident, packed on some pounds and ended up picking up his brother’s old mountain bike.
“I got on the MoPac and within five seconds I was grinning and smiling. It was like my childhood came back in those few seconds.”
He started Chubby Super Biker a few months later. He started dating a woman named Jessica, too. They married in September 2007 (he rode his bike to the wedding). He’s adopting her two kids and they have a toddler together. They just bought a house. He’s nearly finished with college. He has a job he loves.
“He took it to heart, the whole lifestyle change,” says biking buddy Oliver Banta. “He’s just inspiring to people who need some motivation.”
Ben says he couldn’t imagine any of this four years ago.
He’s learned a lot. That’s why he started the blog. Not just to rave about biking, but to let people know anything is possible.
“Like right now, I’m still 350 pounds, I still have probably 150 pounds to go. It’s daunting.”
He’s gained weight, he says. And lost it again. But he keeps looking forward.
Each year he hopes he weighs a little bit less and rides his bike a little bit more.
We ride Wednesday. Against the wind and then with it, pushing us back home. I say goodbye east of downtown, watching Chubby Super Biker — a super nice guy — heading for the edge of town.
There’s a picture of Ben at his heaviest on his blog. A huge guy in a ball cap, spilling over a chair, looking down.
I used to cringe at that picture. I hated that picture. Now I kinda dig it, you know?
You know what else I dig? My bike. I rode it today. It missed me. I missed it...
Life is good. Very very good.
-------------------------------------------------------BLOG POST EXTRACT------------------------------------------------
www.chubbysuperbiker.com/
More from Cindy in the Lincoln Life blog
On Ben Dinger's blog: Before and after photos
Excerpt from the blog of the Chubby Super Biker, Ben Dinger:
Now I get it, the stress we all live in, it pushes us to everything that isn't good. We don't have time, so we eat junk and eat lots of it because - let's be honest here -- whilst eating it, it makes us feel good. We buy big cars and houses because they make us feel good, and feel like that money is going to something, money earned under constant stress to continue to produce so as to continue to earn to continue to buy and continue to eat. In the end we feel empty, so we find things that "take too much time" or "hurt too much" and get rid of 'em, so we can work more and buy more things. And we get more empty. I know I was.
We forget how pure, how great it feels to look to the sky as the legs just blur beneath you, the accomplishment of pushing yourself further than you've pushed before and man the feeling of that is better than anything money can buy.
TechKnowGN
06-04-09, 07:47 AM
Wow, that's awesome! I'm really impressed! Plus, you're bring more good credit to those of us named Ben!
Neil_B
06-04-09, 07:51 AM
The reporter and the photographer both caught Ben's best trait, the trait that endears him to so many folks here in Clydeville - his endless optimism in the face of challenges. Congratulations, Big Ben!
Missbumble
06-04-09, 08:02 AM
Great write up and story!! Thanks for being here on the forum with us lil ole regualr bikers now that you are a superstar! What's next ChubbyBiker the movie? Who would we get to start as you??
I also read some of the blog - very inspiring and helpful!!
I also read some of the blog - very inspiring and helpful!!
bautieri
06-04-09, 08:05 AM
Thanks Alathea!!!
Very nice write up Ben :thumb:, congratulations on everything!
Very nice write up Ben :thumb:, congratulations on everything!
jboyd
06-04-09, 08:08 AM
Congrats Ben. Great Write-up
Ben has been one of the larger (no pun intended) influences on me here. Last summer, his "Extreme Gravel Road Ride" really spoke to me, and Ben's attitude in this article even more so. Not to necessarily lose weight, or to ride faster, climb more or ride any further then myself or anyone else, but instead he speaks to that part of me that just loves to ride.
I have probably worn it out here, but as much as I am impressed by the accomplishments of the century riders and Beanz macho mountain climbs, I have no desire to be any of those things. I just know that every time I push the pedals, I feel happy, and that is my entire focus.
Ben inspires me to do this for me.
Keep up the great work/play Ben.
Jay
Ben has been one of the larger (no pun intended) influences on me here. Last summer, his "Extreme Gravel Road Ride" really spoke to me, and Ben's attitude in this article even more so. Not to necessarily lose weight, or to ride faster, climb more or ride any further then myself or anyone else, but instead he speaks to that part of me that just loves to ride.
I have probably worn it out here, but as much as I am impressed by the accomplishments of the century riders and Beanz macho mountain climbs, I have no desire to be any of those things. I just know that every time I push the pedals, I feel happy, and that is my entire focus.
Ben inspires me to do this for me.
Keep up the great work/play Ben.
Jay
Neil_B
06-04-09, 08:09 AM
Great write up and story!! Thanks for being here on the forum with us lil ole regualr bikers now that you are a superstar!
You know, I know Ben. I've spoken with him from time to time. Are you impressed? :)
You know, I know Ben. I've spoken with him from time to time. Are you impressed? :)
txvintage
06-04-09, 08:18 AM
It was last weekend, unfortunately. Here (http://www.chubbysuperbiker.com/2009/05/lemons-1-me-0.html) is the reason I didn't go (long story short, we had a financial perfect storm that just wouldn't let up, and I wasn't going to dip into savings or start racking up credit card bills to go). In the end, it might not have been a bad thing - here's a blog post (http://cornbreadblog.blogspot.com/2009/05/dirty-kanza-200-may-30-2009.html) from a local racer who's much more fit than I, who barely finished due to some spectacularly brutal conditions.
However, I'm signed up for the Good Life Gravel Adventure 135 miler in late august, and there's no way I'm missing that. Some kind of sadistic fun, it is.
Well bummer. I certainly understand the unexpected expense thing. There seems to be a lot of that going around these days.
I'm looking forward to the August ride!
However, I'm signed up for the Good Life Gravel Adventure 135 miler in late august, and there's no way I'm missing that. Some kind of sadistic fun, it is.
Well bummer. I certainly understand the unexpected expense thing. There seems to be a lot of that going around these days.
I'm looking forward to the August ride!
Alathea
06-04-09, 08:27 AM
Transmissions suck. Timing belts suck, too-luckily we had an extended warranty on our Kia so the 1400.00 (200 for the parts, 200 for the tuneup since our timing belt didn't just break they didn't catch it until after the tuneup, and 1000 for the timing belt and labor) didn't wipe us out that month-just the 100 deductible.
Missbumble
06-04-09, 10:18 AM
You know, I know Ben. I've spoken with him from time to time. Are you impressed? :)
Not any more than I already am. Big fan!
Not any more than I already am. Big fan!
epcolt
06-04-09, 10:32 AM
Great article, we need more good press.
bdinger
06-04-09, 01:51 PM
Again, wow, thanks everyone! Personal replies coming later, for right now I'm just trying to keep up with the email deluge that's coming in!!!! Suffice to say - amazing!
Brando_T.
06-04-09, 01:57 PM
time to insert some advertising on your blog.
Brando_T.
06-04-09, 02:01 PM
is most of your riding dirt roads, bdinger?
Neil_B
06-04-09, 09:53 PM
You know, I know Ben. I've spoken with him from time to time. Are you impressed? :)
I won points at work when I forwarded the article to a 400 pound - and dropping! - coworker. "I'm impressed, Neil. You know this guy!?" :)
I won points at work when I forwarded the article to a 400 pound - and dropping! - coworker. "I'm impressed, Neil. You know this guy!?" :)
bdinger
06-05-09, 07:31 AM
The reporter and the photographer both caught Ben's best trait, the trait that endears him to so many folks here in Clydeville - his endless optimism in the face of challenges. Congratulations, Big Ben!
Thanks Neil! I told several forum stories, but none of them made it in the article - which is OK by me, I understand the constraints they are under. But some were pretty darn inspiring in their own right! I'll keep optimistic, no worries :)
Great write up and story!! Thanks for being here on the forum with us lil ole regualr bikers now that you are a superstar! What's next ChubbyBiker the movie? Who would we get to start as you??
I also read some of the blog - very inspiring and helpful!!
Thanks Miss b! You've done awesome yourself, keep it up. So far no movie offers, but already a couple other interview requests. Not sure if I'm going to do it yet, I still want to be able to ride my bike around town :)
Thanks Alathea!!!
Very nice write up Ben :thumb:, congratulations on everything!
Thanks bau, not just for this, but for all the support!
Congrats Ben. Great Write-up
Ben has been one of the larger (no pun intended) influences on me here. Last summer, his "Extreme Gravel Road Ride" really spoke to me, and Ben's attitude in this article even more so. Not to necessarily lose weight, or to ride faster, climb more or ride any further then myself or anyone else, but instead he speaks to that part of me that just loves to ride.
I have probably worn it out here, but as much as I am impressed by the accomplishments of the century riders and Beanz macho mountain climbs, I have no desire to be any of those things. I just know that every time I push the pedals, I feel happy, and that is my entire focus.
Ben inspires me to do this for me.
Keep up the great work/play Ben.
Jay
Jay - This is the type of thing that keeps things going, to an extent. Many a times I'll want to throw in the towel, but I know that it wouldn't just be me that would be affected - so I keep rollin'. Now I just roll, try not to take it too serious,a nd try to smile. Keep the smile!
You know, I know Ben. I've spoken with him from time to time. Are you impressed? :)
Bwahaha! I did tell the story of your well-timed voicemails during the GLGA, and the inspiration I draw from others. Keep it up, Neil!
Thanks Neil! I told several forum stories, but none of them made it in the article - which is OK by me, I understand the constraints they are under. But some were pretty darn inspiring in their own right! I'll keep optimistic, no worries :)
Great write up and story!! Thanks for being here on the forum with us lil ole regualr bikers now that you are a superstar! What's next ChubbyBiker the movie? Who would we get to start as you??
I also read some of the blog - very inspiring and helpful!!
Thanks Miss b! You've done awesome yourself, keep it up. So far no movie offers, but already a couple other interview requests. Not sure if I'm going to do it yet, I still want to be able to ride my bike around town :)
Thanks Alathea!!!
Very nice write up Ben :thumb:, congratulations on everything!
Thanks bau, not just for this, but for all the support!
Congrats Ben. Great Write-up
Ben has been one of the larger (no pun intended) influences on me here. Last summer, his "Extreme Gravel Road Ride" really spoke to me, and Ben's attitude in this article even more so. Not to necessarily lose weight, or to ride faster, climb more or ride any further then myself or anyone else, but instead he speaks to that part of me that just loves to ride.
I have probably worn it out here, but as much as I am impressed by the accomplishments of the century riders and Beanz macho mountain climbs, I have no desire to be any of those things. I just know that every time I push the pedals, I feel happy, and that is my entire focus.
Ben inspires me to do this for me.
Keep up the great work/play Ben.
Jay
Jay - This is the type of thing that keeps things going, to an extent. Many a times I'll want to throw in the towel, but I know that it wouldn't just be me that would be affected - so I keep rollin'. Now I just roll, try not to take it too serious,a nd try to smile. Keep the smile!
You know, I know Ben. I've spoken with him from time to time. Are you impressed? :)
Bwahaha! I did tell the story of your well-timed voicemails during the GLGA, and the inspiration I draw from others. Keep it up, Neil!
bdinger
06-05-09, 07:48 AM
is most of your riding dirt roads, bdinger?
First, regarding ads on my blog, haha a couple others suggested that yesterday too, but that's not how I roll. I'll happily accept free schwag that I'll review (as I recently did from Aerotech designs, and need to finally get around to reviewing), but I'm not interested in monetizing my blog. Partially because I don't think it's good web design, but mostly because that's not what the blog is about - it's more about getting the story out, showing everyone that I'm human too and hopefully inspiring one or two to do the same along the way.
I have, also, seriously toyed with the idea of starting a obesity research/support foundation. That, really, would warm my heart, and would be the only way I'd consider monetizing the blog (to fund such a venture).
It's starting to become a good portion, yeah, used to be the majority was highway and MUP - but now I'm loving the limestone trails and gravel/dirt roads much better. So much more secluded, beautiful, and challenging. I thought gravel riders had a screw loose for the longest time, and I'm kind of right I suppose, but they also really know what's going on! It's a blast!
I won points at work when I forwarded the article to a 400 pound - and dropping! - coworker. "I'm impressed, Neil. You know this guy!?" :)
I'm a rockstar!!! I also told my wife last night "you realize this means I can never again get a cheeseburger in this town without getting the look, right??" LOL Which I suppose is for the better, all this attention is very motivating! Yesterday my parents and I went to lunch, and sure enough, several folks at a local eatery said "hi" - haha. I made sure to point out to them we went out to lunch there as I know all the dishes are made from scratch (including dressings), and it's simply good stuff - the BBQ chicken salad being my new favority.
Well bummer. I certainly understand the unexpected expense thing. There seems to be a lot of that going around these days.
I'm looking forward to the August ride!
You know, I'm done with the unexpected expenses. DONE. A transmission, a trip out of town, a "furlough" week from work, and new tires for my Taurus really did a number on our accounts this month - but we're still rolling. :)
Transmissions suck. Timing belts suck, too-luckily we had an extended warranty on our Kia so the 1400.00 (200 for the parts, 200 for the tuneup since our timing belt didn't just break they didn't catch it until after the tuneup, and 1000 for the timing belt and labor) didn't wipe us out that month-just the 100 deductible.
I'm with you! I told my wife that the second the new transmission's warranty is up in three years, we're getting rid of that $@#!#@ Chrysler minivan. Worst vehicle purchase ever, and we all know how much I'm a fan of vehicles. Thankfully our kids now will go to the elementary school that you can - literally - see from standing on our front porch, and I'm working out xtracycling my Hardrock for grocery duties to the stores either a half mile (Super Saver) or a mile (Hy-Vee) away.
Great article, we need more good press.
I was really impressed with the reporter, the whole experience, and how the article turned out. Most importantly - the response! So for only a minor dose of haterade from one person, but I expected it. :)
First, regarding ads on my blog, haha a couple others suggested that yesterday too, but that's not how I roll. I'll happily accept free schwag that I'll review (as I recently did from Aerotech designs, and need to finally get around to reviewing), but I'm not interested in monetizing my blog. Partially because I don't think it's good web design, but mostly because that's not what the blog is about - it's more about getting the story out, showing everyone that I'm human too and hopefully inspiring one or two to do the same along the way.
I have, also, seriously toyed with the idea of starting a obesity research/support foundation. That, really, would warm my heart, and would be the only way I'd consider monetizing the blog (to fund such a venture).
It's starting to become a good portion, yeah, used to be the majority was highway and MUP - but now I'm loving the limestone trails and gravel/dirt roads much better. So much more secluded, beautiful, and challenging. I thought gravel riders had a screw loose for the longest time, and I'm kind of right I suppose, but they also really know what's going on! It's a blast!
I won points at work when I forwarded the article to a 400 pound - and dropping! - coworker. "I'm impressed, Neil. You know this guy!?" :)
I'm a rockstar!!! I also told my wife last night "you realize this means I can never again get a cheeseburger in this town without getting the look, right??" LOL Which I suppose is for the better, all this attention is very motivating! Yesterday my parents and I went to lunch, and sure enough, several folks at a local eatery said "hi" - haha. I made sure to point out to them we went out to lunch there as I know all the dishes are made from scratch (including dressings), and it's simply good stuff - the BBQ chicken salad being my new favority.
Well bummer. I certainly understand the unexpected expense thing. There seems to be a lot of that going around these days.
I'm looking forward to the August ride!
You know, I'm done with the unexpected expenses. DONE. A transmission, a trip out of town, a "furlough" week from work, and new tires for my Taurus really did a number on our accounts this month - but we're still rolling. :)
Transmissions suck. Timing belts suck, too-luckily we had an extended warranty on our Kia so the 1400.00 (200 for the parts, 200 for the tuneup since our timing belt didn't just break they didn't catch it until after the tuneup, and 1000 for the timing belt and labor) didn't wipe us out that month-just the 100 deductible.
I'm with you! I told my wife that the second the new transmission's warranty is up in three years, we're getting rid of that $@#!#@ Chrysler minivan. Worst vehicle purchase ever, and we all know how much I'm a fan of vehicles. Thankfully our kids now will go to the elementary school that you can - literally - see from standing on our front porch, and I'm working out xtracycling my Hardrock for grocery duties to the stores either a half mile (Super Saver) or a mile (Hy-Vee) away.
Great article, we need more good press.
I was really impressed with the reporter, the whole experience, and how the article turned out. Most importantly - the response! So for only a minor dose of haterade from one person, but I expected it. :)
Tom Stormcrowe
06-05-09, 12:47 PM
By the way, Ben......welcome to MY world. :p:innocent:
Wait til you get asked for an autograph in Dodge City, KS, for example, by someone that follows your story. ;)
First, regarding ads on my blog, haha a couple others suggested that yesterday too, but that's not how I roll. I'll happily accept free schwag that I'll review (as I recently did from Aerotech designs, and need to finally get around to reviewing), but I'm not interested in monetizing my blog. Partially because I don't think it's good web design, but mostly because that's not what the blog is about - it's more about getting the story out, showing everyone that I'm human too and hopefully inspiring one or two to do the same along the way.
I have, also, seriously toyed with the idea of starting a obesity research/support foundation. That, really, would warm my heart, and would be the only way I'd consider monetizing the blog (to fund such a venture).
It's starting to become a good portion, yeah, used to be the majority was highway and MUP - but now I'm loving the limestone trails and gravel/dirt roads much better. So much more secluded, beautiful, and challenging. I thought gravel riders had a screw loose for the longest time, and I'm kind of right I suppose, but they also really know what's going on! It's a blast!
I'm a rockstar!!! I also told my wife last night "you realize this means I can never again get a cheeseburger in this town without getting the look, right??" LOL Which I suppose is for the better, all this attention is very motivating! Yesterday my parents and I went to lunch, and sure enough, several folks at a local eatery said "hi" - haha. I made sure to point out to them we went out to lunch there as I know all the dishes are made from scratch (including dressings), and it's simply good stuff - the BBQ chicken salad being my new favority.
You know, I'm done with the unexpected expenses. DONE. A transmission, a trip out of town, a "furlough" week from work, and new tires for my Taurus really did a number on our accounts this month - but we're still rolling. :)
I'm with you! I told my wife that the second the new transmission's warranty is up in three years, we're getting rid of that $@#!#@ Chrysler minivan. Worst vehicle purchase ever, and we all know how much I'm a fan of vehicles. Thankfully our kids now will go to the elementary school that you can - literally - see from standing on our front porch, and I'm working out xtracycling my Hardrock for grocery duties to the stores either a half mile (Super Saver) or a mile (Hy-Vee) away.
I was really impressed with the reporter, the whole experience, and how the article turned out. Most importantly - the response! So for only a minor dose of haterade from one person, but I expected it. :)
Wait til you get asked for an autograph in Dodge City, KS, for example, by someone that follows your story. ;)
First, regarding ads on my blog, haha a couple others suggested that yesterday too, but that's not how I roll. I'll happily accept free schwag that I'll review (as I recently did from Aerotech designs, and need to finally get around to reviewing), but I'm not interested in monetizing my blog. Partially because I don't think it's good web design, but mostly because that's not what the blog is about - it's more about getting the story out, showing everyone that I'm human too and hopefully inspiring one or two to do the same along the way.
I have, also, seriously toyed with the idea of starting a obesity research/support foundation. That, really, would warm my heart, and would be the only way I'd consider monetizing the blog (to fund such a venture).
It's starting to become a good portion, yeah, used to be the majority was highway and MUP - but now I'm loving the limestone trails and gravel/dirt roads much better. So much more secluded, beautiful, and challenging. I thought gravel riders had a screw loose for the longest time, and I'm kind of right I suppose, but they also really know what's going on! It's a blast!
I'm a rockstar!!! I also told my wife last night "you realize this means I can never again get a cheeseburger in this town without getting the look, right??" LOL Which I suppose is for the better, all this attention is very motivating! Yesterday my parents and I went to lunch, and sure enough, several folks at a local eatery said "hi" - haha. I made sure to point out to them we went out to lunch there as I know all the dishes are made from scratch (including dressings), and it's simply good stuff - the BBQ chicken salad being my new favority.
You know, I'm done with the unexpected expenses. DONE. A transmission, a trip out of town, a "furlough" week from work, and new tires for my Taurus really did a number on our accounts this month - but we're still rolling. :)
I'm with you! I told my wife that the second the new transmission's warranty is up in three years, we're getting rid of that $@#!#@ Chrysler minivan. Worst vehicle purchase ever, and we all know how much I'm a fan of vehicles. Thankfully our kids now will go to the elementary school that you can - literally - see from standing on our front porch, and I'm working out xtracycling my Hardrock for grocery duties to the stores either a half mile (Super Saver) or a mile (Hy-Vee) away.
I was really impressed with the reporter, the whole experience, and how the article turned out. Most importantly - the response! So for only a minor dose of haterade from one person, but I expected it. :)
Neil_B
06-05-09, 10:29 PM
By the way, Ben......welcome to MY world. :p:innocent:
Wait til you get asked for an autograph in Dodge City, KS, for example, by someone that follows your story. ;)
On tour last year I rode with someone who knew me from my postings here. It wasn't a planned meeting. :)
Wait til you get asked for an autograph in Dodge City, KS, for example, by someone that follows your story. ;)
On tour last year I rode with someone who knew me from my postings here. It wasn't a planned meeting. :)
Hill-Pumper
06-05-09, 11:05 PM
On tour last year I rode with someone who knew me from my postings here. It wasn't a planned meeting. :)
So......Neil, you have your own stalker :innocent::lol:
So......Neil, you have your own stalker :innocent::lol:
Neil_B
06-05-09, 11:18 PM
So......Neil, you have your own stalker :innocent::lol:
Not that fellow. The two folks who've harassed me on the Touring Forum are another matter. :(
Not that fellow. The two folks who've harassed me on the Touring Forum are another matter. :(
vXhanz
06-06-09, 06:48 AM
Nice write up, and congratulations on getting in the paper! Keep up the good work!
V
V
jaxgtr
06-06-09, 07:01 AM
Nice story. Very inspirational.
bdinger
06-06-09, 09:23 AM
By the way, Ben......welcome to MY world. :p:innocent:
Wait til you get asked for an autograph in Dodge City, KS, for example, by someone that follows your story. ;)
hahah, I know it's going to happen! On my thursday night ride I got stopped several times by other folks on the trail, one time almost them literally stopping me head-on.. that woulda hurt. :)
Last night we were outside, and I was apparently the talk of the neighborhood. In a good way this time! And my blog has gone from 60-80 visitors/day to 1,500... CRAP :roflmao2:
Oh, and already some haterade. But I'm sure you know all about that too.. $!#@!#$ lancers.
Wait til you get asked for an autograph in Dodge City, KS, for example, by someone that follows your story. ;)
hahah, I know it's going to happen! On my thursday night ride I got stopped several times by other folks on the trail, one time almost them literally stopping me head-on.. that woulda hurt. :)
Last night we were outside, and I was apparently the talk of the neighborhood. In a good way this time! And my blog has gone from 60-80 visitors/day to 1,500... CRAP :roflmao2:
Oh, and already some haterade. But I'm sure you know all about that too.. $!#@!#$ lancers.
Tom Stormcrowe
06-06-09, 09:37 AM
Yeah, when I was featured on the main search page as a Headline News item on the MSN homepage, I went from 1500 hits a month to 292,000 hits in a single day. The first month, I had over a million visitors, and I got booted from my image host server because I burned a terabyte of bandwidth in 2 days. :eek::twitchy: !!!!!
At that time, I had my blog on msn's Myspace, and I actually crashed that server as well from the volume. :p MSN had to dedicate a large capacity server just for me.....:p I still get emails out the wazoo about my story, as well, on both sides of the issue, the supportive ones, and the haterade. I've even gotten death threats....I kid you not! I actually like it a whole lot better since I kind of drew down my net presence quietly.....
hahah, I know it's going to happen! On my thursday night ride I got stopped several times by other folks on the trail, one time almost them literally stopping me head-on.. that woulda hurt. :)
Last night we were outside, and I was apparently the talk of the neighborhood. In a good way this time! And my blog has gone from 60-80 visitors/day to 1,500... CRAP :roflmao2:
Oh, and already some haterade. But I'm sure you know all about that too.. $!#@!#$ lancers.
At that time, I had my blog on msn's Myspace, and I actually crashed that server as well from the volume. :p MSN had to dedicate a large capacity server just for me.....:p I still get emails out the wazoo about my story, as well, on both sides of the issue, the supportive ones, and the haterade. I've even gotten death threats....I kid you not! I actually like it a whole lot better since I kind of drew down my net presence quietly.....
hahah, I know it's going to happen! On my thursday night ride I got stopped several times by other folks on the trail, one time almost them literally stopping me head-on.. that woulda hurt. :)
Last night we were outside, and I was apparently the talk of the neighborhood. In a good way this time! And my blog has gone from 60-80 visitors/day to 1,500... CRAP :roflmao2:
Oh, and already some haterade. But I'm sure you know all about that too.. $!#@!#$ lancers.
Hill-Pumper
06-06-09, 09:57 AM
Wow, I would never think about someone sending haterade not to mention death threats:eek: over an inspirational story like your guys. I know that cyclist get their share of grief as well as over weight people. So, I guess an over weight cyclist bring on twice as much hate. :(
Alathea
06-06-09, 10:00 AM
Haterade from what? Other large people that don't want to be convinced to leave the fold? I can't really conceive of much negative publicity that could come from either of your stories.
Tom Stormcrowe
06-06-09, 10:08 AM
It's a range of people that do it. It ranges from people that claim we are faking it, to people that are extremely obese and have given up and can't stand to see others succeed where they have failed. There are some real loons out on the net, which is one of the reasons I'm very careful about how much personal info gets out on the net, about things like my address, etc.
I've had a cyberstalker or 20 in my day.
I've had a cyberstalker or 20 in my day.
Neil_B
06-06-09, 11:09 AM
It's a range of people that do it. It ranges from people that claim we are faking it, to people that are extremely obese and have given up and can't stand to see others succeed where they have failed. There are some real loons out on the net, which is one of the reasons I'm very careful about how much personal info gets out on the net, about things like my address, etc.
I've had a cyberstalker or 20 in my day.
Still Tom, Jared Fogle has us all beat. No one has set up a "I hate Tom/Ben/Neil/etc" sight:
https://www.msu.edu/~weberowe/complaints/Jared/jared.html
I've had a cyberstalker or 20 in my day.
Still Tom, Jared Fogle has us all beat. No one has set up a "I hate Tom/Ben/Neil/etc" sight:
https://www.msu.edu/~weberowe/complaints/Jared/jared.html
Neil_B
06-06-09, 11:28 AM
Haterade from what? Other large people that don't want to be convinced to leave the fold? I can't really conceive of much negative publicity that could come from either of your stories.
In some cases it's jealousy prompted by success at an activity many folks try and fail at. I had a co-worker once tell me she was upset I'd lost 60 pounds. She was a sweet woman, and said she shouldn't be angry at me, but she was, and I should avoid her for a day or so. I did so and we were fine after that.
In some cases it's because they believe we aren't doing it the 'correct' way. Ben, for instance, had medical assistance at first. I'm sure some idiots feel that's wrong. (Please, no debates about liquid diets, bariatric surgery, lipo, etc, in this thread - that's not the point I'm making.) I get a lot of flak on the Touring Forum from the resident know-it-alls.
Some folks object simply because they feel we are taking attention that rightfully belongs to them. Sort of like all those office racers who would be riding the Tour de France if an unjust God didn't switch them and Lance Armstrong at birth.
In my case, it's often because folks assume I haven't paid my dues, so to speak. I've been subject to personal attacks on both the Bicycle Club of Philadelphia and Great Allegheny Passage email lists because I'm a less experienced rider with an opinion. I admit my habit of never backing down from an argument hasn't helped me here.
And then there are genuine nutters - visit the chess groups or the Shakespeare newsgroup for examples. :)
In some cases it's jealousy prompted by success at an activity many folks try and fail at. I had a co-worker once tell me she was upset I'd lost 60 pounds. She was a sweet woman, and said she shouldn't be angry at me, but she was, and I should avoid her for a day or so. I did so and we were fine after that.
In some cases it's because they believe we aren't doing it the 'correct' way. Ben, for instance, had medical assistance at first. I'm sure some idiots feel that's wrong. (Please, no debates about liquid diets, bariatric surgery, lipo, etc, in this thread - that's not the point I'm making.) I get a lot of flak on the Touring Forum from the resident know-it-alls.
Some folks object simply because they feel we are taking attention that rightfully belongs to them. Sort of like all those office racers who would be riding the Tour de France if an unjust God didn't switch them and Lance Armstrong at birth.
In my case, it's often because folks assume I haven't paid my dues, so to speak. I've been subject to personal attacks on both the Bicycle Club of Philadelphia and Great Allegheny Passage email lists because I'm a less experienced rider with an opinion. I admit my habit of never backing down from an argument hasn't helped me here.
And then there are genuine nutters - visit the chess groups or the Shakespeare newsgroup for examples. :)
Hill-Pumper
06-06-09, 12:47 PM
This is sort of a weird side thought that I had. Aren't we guilty of hating fat people, because we ourselves were fat/fatter and we wanted to change that fact. I know we all have our own reasons for wanting to drop the weight, but does it not come down to not being happy with who we are that got us on the bike, watching the food intake and such. There is the health issue to consider as motivation, but it is something that just popped into my mind while reading this tread.
Neil_B
06-06-09, 01:04 PM
This is sort of a weird side thought that I had. Aren't we guilty of hating fat people, because we ourselves were fat/fatter and we wanted to change that fact. I know we all have our own reasons for wanting to drop the weight, but does it not come down to not being happy with who we are that got us on the bike, watching the food intake and such. There is the health issue to consider as motivation, but it is something that just popped into my mind while reading this tread.
Well, in my case I taught myself to ride a bike because I wanted to ride a bike. Weight loss had little to nothing to do with it.
But, no, I don't think my losing weight means I hate people who choose to remain obese. Do you hate folks who don't ride bikes? I like Wagner's Ring, and it doesn't mean I hate the music of Brahms, or those who don't like Wagner. (Sorry, first comparison that came to mind. I'm listening to Siegfried at the moment. When I get a steel bike I'll probably name it Notung, after Siegfried's sword.) :)
Well, in my case I taught myself to ride a bike because I wanted to ride a bike. Weight loss had little to nothing to do with it.
But, no, I don't think my losing weight means I hate people who choose to remain obese. Do you hate folks who don't ride bikes? I like Wagner's Ring, and it doesn't mean I hate the music of Brahms, or those who don't like Wagner. (Sorry, first comparison that came to mind. I'm listening to Siegfried at the moment. When I get a steel bike I'll probably name it Notung, after Siegfried's sword.) :)
Hill-Pumper
06-06-09, 01:36 PM
Well, in my case I taught myself to ride a bike because I wanted to ride a bike. Weight loss had little to nothing to do with it.
But, no, I don't think my losing weight means I hate people who choose to remain obese. Do you hate folks who don't ride bikes? I like Wagner's Ring, and it doesn't mean I hate the music of Brahms, or those who don't like Wagner. (Sorry, first comparison that came to mind. I'm listening to Siegfried at the moment. When I get a steel bike I'll probably name it Notung, after Siegfried's sword.) :)
Let me pose a question to you. Are you happier with yourself now that you have dropped some weight then when you were bigger? My point was that maybe subconsciously that we disliked ourselves when were bigger, not that we dislike others for being bigger. Don't read to much into my weird thoughts, I don't.:lol:
But, no, I don't think my losing weight means I hate people who choose to remain obese. Do you hate folks who don't ride bikes? I like Wagner's Ring, and it doesn't mean I hate the music of Brahms, or those who don't like Wagner. (Sorry, first comparison that came to mind. I'm listening to Siegfried at the moment. When I get a steel bike I'll probably name it Notung, after Siegfried's sword.) :)
Let me pose a question to you. Are you happier with yourself now that you have dropped some weight then when you were bigger? My point was that maybe subconsciously that we disliked ourselves when were bigger, not that we dislike others for being bigger. Don't read to much into my weird thoughts, I don't.:lol:
Tom Stormcrowe
06-06-09, 01:43 PM
This is sort of a weird side thought that I had. Aren't we guilty of hating fat people, because we ourselves were fat/fatter and we wanted to change that fact. I know we all have our own reasons for wanting to drop the weight, but does it not come down to not being happy with who we are that got us on the bike, watching the food intake and such. There is the health issue to consider as motivation, but it is something that just popped into my mind while reading this tread.
Well, Hill-pumper, my motivation was initially to simply stay alive. My weight was quite literally killing me quickly. I was pretty much circling the drain. My continued motivation is from first, just plain loving life again, and secondarily, getting to watch all of you guys and gals sharing your victories as well. I mean what I say when if you touch someones life in a positive way, you get back 10 X what you give. :D
Well, Hill-pumper, my motivation was initially to simply stay alive. My weight was quite literally killing me quickly. I was pretty much circling the drain. My continued motivation is from first, just plain loving life again, and secondarily, getting to watch all of you guys and gals sharing your victories as well. I mean what I say when if you touch someones life in a positive way, you get back 10 X what you give. :D
racethenation
06-06-09, 03:04 PM
Great article! Keep up the great work. I know that it is easy to let life get in the way of goals, but keep pushing through it.
takingcontrol
06-06-09, 03:07 PM
Let me pose a question to you. Are you happier with yourself now that you have dropped some weight then when you were bigger? My point was that maybe subconsciously that we disliked ourselves when were bigger, not that we dislike others for being bigger. Don't read to much into my weird thoughts, I don't.:lol:
I don't think it's that we hate scratch that...dislike our(fat)selves, It is more that we understand the mindset of being massive. My self for example, in my mind I am an adventurous person who loves outdoor activities I/E gold panning, shooting, camping diving. I tell people that I'm a certified diver and I get this look and everyone on this forum knows the LOOK. With all of these outside influences our mental track kinda gets stuck in a loop. When this loop goes on long enough it is hard to force your way out of the grove. To change takes work, allot of work, and groves are comfortable. I think I lost my train of thought somewhere in this post and I can't seem to get back to it (jumped a groove ;) ) but point is don't dislike, just try and be a positive influence the way everyone on this forum has been to me.
I don't think it's that we hate scratch that...dislike our(fat)selves, It is more that we understand the mindset of being massive. My self for example, in my mind I am an adventurous person who loves outdoor activities I/E gold panning, shooting, camping diving. I tell people that I'm a certified diver and I get this look and everyone on this forum knows the LOOK. With all of these outside influences our mental track kinda gets stuck in a loop. When this loop goes on long enough it is hard to force your way out of the grove. To change takes work, allot of work, and groves are comfortable. I think I lost my train of thought somewhere in this post and I can't seem to get back to it (jumped a groove ;) ) but point is don't dislike, just try and be a positive influence the way everyone on this forum has been to me.
Alathea
06-06-09, 04:24 PM
There are some at work that are currently enlisted that ive tried to talk to for camaraderie's sake and they look at my 285 now and wonder if I confused 'their weekend warrior' stuff with boy scouts or paint ball. I just ignore them now and figure that they are their NCO's handful and not mine! *lol*
Neil_B
06-06-09, 04:50 PM
I tell people that I'm a certified diver and I get this look and everyone on this forum knows the LOOK.
Yes, I get it too.
"Hi, my name is Neil. I'm a cyclist."
"BWHAHAHAHAHAHA!"
:)
Yes, I get it too.
"Hi, my name is Neil. I'm a cyclist."
"BWHAHAHAHAHAHA!"
:)
Wogster
06-06-09, 04:53 PM
Yes, I get it too.
"Hi, my name is Neil. I'm a cyclist."
Now get your flipping car out of my lane.....
Yeah it's been one of those days, 7 cars in a 3km stretch of bike lane:rolleyes:
"Hi, my name is Neil. I'm a cyclist."
Now get your flipping car out of my lane.....
Yeah it's been one of those days, 7 cars in a 3km stretch of bike lane:rolleyes:
bdinger
06-06-09, 09:15 PM
Only two servings of haterade so far - one was "one of those roadies" - you know the type. Late 40's, has a Madone (WHY DO THEY ALL HAVE HAVE TO RIDE MADONES?? seriously..), has the matching Discovery Channel team kit, skinny.. and has no engine. Nice bike, 0 ability. Rides with his buddies once or twice a week to show off. I'm sure he didn't tell them that he got dropped by me on my mountain bike, wearing khakis and a polo! :)
Other one was a pretty crappy email, but it happens. There have been SOOO many positives that outweigh it, and that is just awesome. Amazing stories emailed, those on the fence thinking of making the leap, and everything in between. And yes, a visit to the store this afternoon confirmed that too many people in this town read the dang newspaper! LOL
Anyway, I think nearly 100% of the time the haterade comes from jealousy. They want to be out there, they don't think it's true, etc etc. It'll all work out.
I've considered dialing back my net presence too, but already the response has made me want to get more out. Great people out there, some really crappy ones too, but some great people out there.
Other one was a pretty crappy email, but it happens. There have been SOOO many positives that outweigh it, and that is just awesome. Amazing stories emailed, those on the fence thinking of making the leap, and everything in between. And yes, a visit to the store this afternoon confirmed that too many people in this town read the dang newspaper! LOL
Anyway, I think nearly 100% of the time the haterade comes from jealousy. They want to be out there, they don't think it's true, etc etc. It'll all work out.
I've considered dialing back my net presence too, but already the response has made me want to get more out. Great people out there, some really crappy ones too, but some great people out there.
Neil_B
01-30-11, 01:51 PM
Missed it by THAT much!
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
Bumped in honor of BDinger's return.
http://journalstar.com/articles/2009/06/04/news/local/doc4a271a1472f4e734189707.txt
Bumped in honor of BDinger's return.