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August 31, 2004
"My experiences with the Team of Destiny"
By QBlog in
As I was sorting through some old emails yesterday, I came across an interesting one from "BigA" who shared that he was accused of libel after posting his experiences with Team of Destiny.
...Thank you for taking the time to read this. I have made an entry on my online diary about the quixtar company and was accused of libel.. *sigh*... I'm sure you've had that too...Of course, I've been accused of many things as a result of this blog. The most recent accusation is that I was somehow responsible for Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction" at the last Super Bowl. But I digress.
The post that "BigA" was referring to appears in the jemdiary under the heading "Team Of Destiny." Here are a few excerpts:
... Imagine my suprise when, after about 2 years, Lemon calls me. He asks how I am doing, and such. I say great, whats up with you? "Not too much.. but i've found this way to make money on the internet, i thought you'd like to know about"... right away, my skin crawls and i'm all like "ah! scam! ah! scam!"... but never thte less, i give him a chance.. "go on..." i say. "have you heard of george tero-naga-saki-jujubean (or something very japanesey)." "no"...The "libel" comment comes from Adam, who claims he is "not with TOD" but warns of libel charges nonetheless.... We arrive to the little meeting and I see another guy i knew from college... afew actually.. all like burnouts and drop outs and stuff... this is getting scarier by the moment. and then men in suits... Lemons' little co conspirtator ... i mean mentor... wlecomes me and talks to me and such... tries very hard to pretend like he wants to know about me... yet his attention is elsewhere ... i wonder if he's imagining how much money i have in my wallet?
... the Team of Destiny idea is mathetmatically sound... I just dont' think it will be popuplar enough... plus, I'm not that type of salesman.. I dont agree or "believe' in the "dream" enough to sell others into it.
"BigA" was just sharing his experience. I also thought it was extremely interesting that "BigA" didn't cite a single Web site for information. Maybe he just didn't mention it but this post doesn't look like it was influenced by the so-called "negative, dream-killing" Web sites. I think that's important to point out. "BigA" formulated his opinions about TOD all by himself and then shared it with the world. Think about that, especially you IBOs who still believe in the "Mysterious Meeting."
August 30, 2004
Monday Reader Mail: 10
By QBlog in Reader Mail
Today's Reader Mail is one of my favorites. As always, my comments appear in bold.
name: Kenneth M.I personally find it odd that business associates are referred to as "brothers and sisters" by Kenneth. I realize that the Quixtar culture will probably respond by saying that I just don't "get" what Quixtar is all about and they may be right.
date: April 22, 2004message: My comments about your feelings about Quixtar are not meant by any ill feelings toward you or anyone else that has tried this business or any other business model. I will how ever tell you the many lives that I've seen changed over the years since my IBOship. Lets just say , maybe it wasn't for you. Maybe you require a different type of vehicle to get you where you need to be,and thats cool too,but don't fault anyone else because it didn't work for you.
For the record, I've never been critical of IBOs who work their business honestly, ethically and transparently.
And to all my brothers and sisters who have chosen to step out on faith to transform their minds ,stop e-mailing this guy! You don't have to debat him on the truth, and our truths are not his ,and thats cool too. This bashers page has nothing to do with where we are going. If he doesn't want to be free,let him rest in cheese station "C" ! Peace.
I can only imagine that "cheese station 'C'" is some sort of IBO code talk for "loser." Or maybe it's some literary reference that went over my head?
RedStar
By QBlog in
I had a dream last night. In my dream Jakob Nielsen, Steve Krug and Jeffrey Zeldman were all imprisoned by some unseen force. Their captors brought each man into a dark room furnished only with a single wooden table. At one end of the table sat a computer terminal and at the opposite end was a glass of water and a small pill. One at a time, they were given a choice: Spend the next 24 hours surfing the Quixtar Web site or swallow a lethal cyanide pill. Within five minutes all three men were dead. Then i woke up, relieved that it was all just a crazy dream.
Not to self: Must avoid pizza after midnight.
The reality contained within my "dream" is that the Quixtar Web site is a usability nightmare. I've been a vocal critic of the site ever since I first visited over two years ago. It violates so many fundamental design rules that I'm amazed it's remained virtually unchanged for nearly five years.
I'm not alone in my criticism. An article from Baseline Magazine points out some of the problems I've mentioned in the past.
Quixtar's Web site suffers from design kinks that any e-commerce company should avoid.The article's author, Kim S. Nash, points out that Quixtar.com "lacks a consistent look, and is organized to reflect how Quixtar works rather than how a shopper shops."
However, Quixtar seems to finally be working on some major improvements to their Web site. Quixtar spokeswoman Anna Bryce is quoted as saying that the Web site will receive a "fairly comprehensive redesign" this fall.
The redesign efforts have been confirmed in the "Real Quixtar Blog's" August 24, 2004 post titled "User Designed" (get some permalinks Kia!):
Many people here have been working on one of the coolest projects in Quixtar's five-year history -- the redesign of Quixtar.com. Internally the project was called Redstar, which is short of Redesign Quixtar. Not too long ago, the Quixtar site received a poor rating by the GoodExperience people as being too confusing for users. Well, we already knew that and were working on it. We hope they take another look at us when the redesigned site is launched, because the user experience will be greatly improved and users will discover that it's much easier to find what they're looking for.All I can say is "It's about time." Five years is an eternity in Web time and every IBO should be relieved that Quixtar is working to improve it's clunky site. I just hope that this time it lives up to the hype.
+ Kaba8 quotes Kia
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
+ Kaba8 quotes Kia
"Quixtar truly believes in rewarding efforts"
+ QUIXTAR_QRUSH
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
+ QUIXTAR_QRUSH
"Qrush, I think is doing an impeccable job"
August 28, 2004
Not an IBO
By QBlog in
Thanks to Rachel for the image.
August 27, 2004
PSA Requests Investigation
By QBlog in
Robert FitzPatrick, of Pyramid Scheme Alert, has filed a request with the North Carolina Attorney General to begin an official investigation of Britt World Wide.
The investigation request (pdf) cites "deception" revealed in the NBC Dateline show and complaints from consumers as reasons for an investigation. It describes Britt's organization as a "classic pyramid" where goods (tapes, books and seminars) are sold within the system and participants can only recoup their investment by recruiting more participants.
The request also cites court cases, North Carolina statutes and testimony from Peggy Britt about "dubious assets offshore." I don't have any idea if this request will result in official action and I'm sure Britt has a response for each of the issues raised about his business but I just thought it was interesting that PSA was requesting an investigation.
Marks - The Feedback
By QBlog in
Alas, it's Friday and there's no Marks chapter to publish. What ever shall I do?
Well, I'm sad to say this but the Marks serial experiment is finished. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. Now's your chance to share your thoughts, opinions, praise or criticism about the novel. If you haven't read the novel then you'll find all sixteen chapters linked below.
August 26, 2004
The Trim Advantage
By QBlog in
While my wife was an active IBO in Quixtar our pantry was filled with Trim Advantage Protein Bars. My wife loved them and regularly ate them to boost her energy and supplement her diet. I thought they tasted awful but I guess it's one of those personal preference things.
Anyway, a site visitor directed me to QuixtarPage.Net which is a sort of advertisement for Trim Advantage bars. The page shares some facts about Trim Advantage and a few testimonials from IBOs, including one from Fred Harteis. It's your basic PR stuff explaining the greatness of the product and how well it works. Nothing all that interesting about the page until we read the testimonial of Kathy Coles, IBO.
"I ordered a pair of jeans, and when they came they were too tight. So my goal was to lose enough weight to fit into those jeans! I basically cut down on carbs and started using the Trim Advantage Protein Bars I'd have one for breakfast or lunch, or even for a snack. Then I would have meat and veggies for dinner. I didnt worry too much about fat; I used nuts for snacks, too. The Protein Bars really made it so much easier because when you're doing low carb, sometimes you really want something sweet or something to chew. The Protein Bars fill both needs..."Kathy Coles, IBO
Weight loss: 1215 pounds in 3 months
1,215 pounds in three months! Yowzers. Those Trim Advantage bars are potent and Kathy Coles was F-A-T.
Ok, Ok. I realize that this is obviously a typo (God I hope it is) but it's funny nonetheless. And while we're pointing out this typo, let's think about it for a second shall we? What exactly was typed in wrong? Was the one accidentally added at the beginning of the number? If so, 215 pounds in three months is still pretty scary. Or was it the five at the end? 121 pounds is better but still means we're starting out with one hefty woman. Or maybe it was 12.15 pounds which doesn't really make sense but is less scary than the other options. Or maybe all parts of the number are wrong? Who knows.
Whatever the case, it's a funny mistake. Wonder how long till Quixtar fixes that.
August 24, 2004
- Dexter Yager
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- Dexter Yager
"Savvy Businessman or Cult Figurehead?"
Trust Your Gut
By QBlog in
Michelle Singletary (no relation to Mike) is a financial columnist for the Washington Post and writes a syndicated column called "The Color of Money."
Her August 22 column, "Heed Those Wary Instincts" (registration required or use this alternative, non-registration link), advises opportunity-seekers to "trust your gut" when it comes to money.
Singletary's advice was given to a reader who wrote her questioning the legitimacy of a "business opportunity" that was being pitched to him by a co-worker. He wrote that he...
"...was curious and asked to see the actual products they have for sale and to see the system in operation. They pointed me to [some] Web sites. I was given a few CDs and a tape, which went on and on about how great the business is and how much money everyone is making. I was told that all I had to do was come to a meeting and all my questions would be answered. I have not attended a meeting yet and may do so out of curiosity, but I am leery [about] their evasiveness."I'm sure you've already guessed that the "business opportunity" was Quixtar and Singletary explains that it is a legitimate business owned by Alticor. As for the co-worker's evasiveness towards the reader's questions, Quixtar responds:
"Robin Luymes, manager of public relations for Quixtar, said he's sure there was no subterfuge intended in the recruitment of the person who wrote to me. '[We] try to get people together in a room to get the full story from somebody who is an expert presenter,' he said."Singletary goes on to mention a few warnings to heed before signing up for an MLM opportunity and then concludes by saying that "if someone is evasive about a business opportunity: If you can't be straight up with me from the get-go, if you need to use a ruse to get me to a meeting or to buy a product, then take your business someplace else."
Good advice from an honest and unbiased journalist (isn't that an oxymoron?).
UPDATE: Friend and Quixtar IBO Dwighty complained to me about this post, saying that it was misleading. He felt that I should have pointed out that the IBO co-worker (from the Singletary column) was representing a unique organization affiliated with Quixtar even though such a distinction isn't made in the column. I invited Dwighty to rewrite my entire post as he thinks it should have been presented. Dwighty's rewrite appears below:
August 23, 2004
SkepDic Defines TOD
By QBlog in
Robert Todd Carroll, of the Skeptics Dictionary fame, has added Team of Destiny to his Amway/Quixtar definition page. Why does Orrin Woodward's TOD business get so much attention from the SkepDic? Maybe it has something to do with Paddling the Canoe? ;o)
Monday Reader Mail: 9
By QBlog in Reader Mail
Today's Reader Mail is short and to the point (but not so sweet). It's from "beth" who doesn't seem to think very highly of me. Join the club "beth."
name: bethI guess I see things differently. I don't believe I'm tearing anyone down. There are some wonderful people in Quixtar doing some wonderful things but does that mean I shouldn't express my opinions when I notice problems or inconsistencies?
date: August 11, 2004message: I think you are a pathetic person who needs to get a life. Why not spend your time and energy in helping someone instead of tearing down people who are trying to make a difference and not just trying but succeeding. I thank God every day for this business and the leaders in it.
August 22, 2004
Pat Boone Sings Amway
By QBlog in
Don Hargraves of the Amway/Quixtar Memory Hole sent me a link to something called the 365 Days Project. He directed me to an entry from Feb. 17, 2003, that had some audio of Pat Boone singing and speaking at an Amway convention. I'm not really a Pat Boone fan so I wasn't particularly impressed with the songs but maybe they're dynamite tunes for Boone lovers. You decide.
Take a listen (mp3) for yourself. A couple of my favorite lyrics were:
And if some wiseguy suggests that we swap partnersI don't really understand if he's talking about Amway partners, business partners or wife swapping. He apparently forgot a couple of lines so it may be out of context.
I'll count to ten and then I'll bust his... Bubble.
And there's this:
A neighbor asked me over for a little demonstrationBoone was really excited about seeing the plan. What an Amway trooper!
Before he even finished with the product demonstration
My eyes were bugging out at a future I could see was fine
August 21, 2004
SEC and MLM
By QBlog in
I recently received an email from Gary L. Goodenow who is a former senior trial attorney for the enforcement division of the United States Securities & Exchange Commission. Here's an excerpt from that email:
I saw your web site on multi-level marketing (MLM). I am a former senior trial attorney for the enforcement division of the United States Securities & Exchange Commission. I was continually amazed at how little people know about what the SEC does — and does not do — to protect their investments. Among the areas I feel the SEC has failed miserably is that of MLM fraud. It largely ignores the problem, and all defense lawyers have to say to make an SEC investigation go away is "my client's program is just like Amway." Well, they're not, and many of them are scams that are now laundering dirty offshore drug money into clean MLM profits in the USA.
Goodenow (I love that name) invited me to republish an article he wrote for his Web site (RealityAtTheSEC.com) about the SEC and MLM. After reading the article I thought it was worth republishing here because it does help to clarify some confusion about MLM businesses.
The following article is solely authored by Gary Goodenow. I'm republishing it here with his expressed permission but the Creative Commons license on my site may or may not apply to Goodenow's article. If you'd like to republish this article, please contact Goodenow.
August 20, 2004
Marks - Final Chapter
By QBlog in
Marks is a novel that tells the story of a young married couple, two college roommates and a successful businessman whose lives ultimately intertwine as the result of a business opportunity — and a dream. Quixtar BLOG has published Marks as a serial, making a new installment available every Friday. This is the final chapter. All previous chapters are archived here on the blog so if you missed any just search for "Marks" and you should be caught up in no time.
Thanks to all who've kept up with this book each week. It was fun for me and I hope it was fun for you too. Since comments are disabled for this post I invite you to send any feedback to marks@webraw.com and be sure to put "Marks Feedback" in the subject line. My thanks to the author for permitting me to publish her novel here. A complete (and hopefully edited) version of the novel should be available as a PDF download sometime soon.
Disclaimer: This book has not been through a final edit. There may be some misspelled words and grammatical errors. Please understand that as you read through the novel.
» Chapter 16
“Everything is fine, Mom,” Teri said into the telephone handset. She tried not to sigh and to keep the exasperation out of her voice. “I just got really busy for a while.”
“Two months,” Regan Carlisle said in a clipped tone. “You didn’t call for an entire month. We were so worried.”
“I know, Mom. I’m sorry.”
“Was it the business, was that what has kept you to busy to pick up the phone? Your poor father has been sick over this. He’s called Tom about a thousand times. We were this close to driving up and seeing what was going on.”
Teri clamped her hand on her forehead and leaned even further back on the couch. She needed to talk to her father. He was the only person who knew she had been pregnant and she needed to tell him a watered down version of what had happened before he let something slip to Tom.”
“Is Daddy there?” Teri asked. “Can I talk to him?”
August 19, 2004
Yellow Qrush
By QBlog in Web Initiative
yel-low
adj. - Slang meaning cowardly.
You remember Orange Crush right? No, not THAT Orange Crush. The yummy soda of the same name.
Well, it looks like there's a new soda out that captures the essence and flavor of fellow blogger QRush.
I'm drinking a Yellow Qrush right now and it's sooooo refreshing with only the slightest after-taste. Be sure to pick up a case at your local grocer today!
August 18, 2004
Platinum INDEX 2004
By QBlog in
A site visitor sent me a copy of a 2004 Platinum INDEX (INdicators Driving EXcellence). It's very similar to the 2002 Platinum Index I posted about in May of this year.
What Is The Platinum INDEX?
Well, I believe the Platinum INDEX is an annual report that compares portions of a Qualified Platinum's downline performance to the performance of a "Typical Platinum" in their specific Line of Sponsorship (or Affiliation). Both those numbers are compared to the median performance numbers of Q-12 Qualifiers throughout all of Quixtar, not just one specific group.
What Does This Mean?
Well, first of all it means that Quixtar hasn't updated their performance numbers since 2002... unless those numbers simply haven't changed in two years, which is possible I suppose.
Also, when you compare the 2002 INDEX to the 2004 version you see a couple of items have disappeared. "Percentage of IBOs who ordered or registered in the most recent 4 months" is missing from the 2004 INDEX. And, the "Percentage of IBOs who earned 100 or more personal PV at least one month" is gone. I wonder why those items are missing?
Median vs. Average
What startled me about the Platinum INDEX is that it uses median (Mid-point) numbers instead of averages. I've been critical of the Quixtar Average Income ($1,380 per year) in the past mainly because it's the average income and not the median income (average vs. median explained). See, averages can be easily influenced by extreme values and this fact is what many IBOs latch onto as an explanation of Quixtar's very low income figures. However, it's much more difficult to explain away median numbers because they represent the Mid-point of a group, not the average.
So, keep that in mind when you look at those blue numbers.
UPDATE: I've been alerted by someone with superior math skills that my understanding of Median vs. Average, specifically as it relates to the Platinum INDEX, is somewhat simplistic. Math is a weakness of mine and so I defer to Jennifer's explanation which is included in italics.
When people talk about average, what they really want is the "likely" result.
Example: If you meet a grown male, what's his likely height? If you start work as an engineer, what's your likely starting salary? The reason why "average," eg. mean, is a good indicator is if the distribution is a bell curve, most of the results will fall near the average. To visualize, draw a bell curve and draw a line through the middle and you'll see most of the area under the curve are near the average.
However, if the curve is just a horizontal line, average is a poor indicator. Likewise, if the curve is an inverted bell or has 3 humps, average is a poor indicator.
Now, the analogy for the Platinum INDEX:
Let's say you're considering moving to AmericanTown. This town has 100,000 household (1,000 neighborhoods, each with 100 houses). The citizens are randomly assigned a house (the town is trying to be egalitarian).
If you want know how much money each household is likely to make, you may ask for the "average household income." However, this may be misleading since you don't know what the income curve looks like. It may be a triple hump (large lower class, small middle class, and a tiny upper class).
If you want to know what each neighborhood income looks like, you can still make a reasonable guess even if you don't know the exact income curve. In fact, the neighborhood income curve will be bell shaped (this is the gut of the Mean Limit Theorem).
Think of each household as an IBO. If you want to know how much income an IBO is likely to make, you will have no idea unless you have a picture of the income curve.
Think of each neighborhood as a Q-12. Even without knowledge of the IBO income curve, you can still surmise that most Q-12 (80%) will have roughly 200 IBOs. You still can't tell if it's 160 IBOs making around 38 PV/month and 40 making more or less or 160 IBOs making 0 and 40 IBOs making 190 PV/month. If someone shows you the 6-3 plan (24 IBO total), you know that this is very unlikely. If someone shows you the 9-6-3 plan (~200 IBO), you know this is very likely.
Still doesn't say much about evaluating MLM, but hopefully the analogy will give you a better understanding of averages so you won't be taken for somebody trying to deceive with averages and statistics.
Thanks much Jennifer. My intent is never to deceive so thanks for clearing that up.
- As if !!
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- As if !!
"I'll never join Quixtar! NEVER!"
August 17, 2004
Randy Haugen Speaks
By QBlog in
As some bloggers have reported, Randy Haugen (of certain fame) has announced the "formation of the new Wilson Organization LLC" to apparently solve some problems with the tool business. Haugen's audio message comes as a sort of response to the Dateline NBC story about Quixtar that aired in May 2004.
The message is actually pretty encouraging. Haugen outlines some of the ways his group and the new LLC are working to improve the Motivational Organization and even acknowledges that criticisms can help improve his business. As I listened to his positive message of change and growth and leadership, I couldn't help but like the guy. Not that I ever disliked him but I guess it's just encouraging to hear such optimism.
And maybe that's why the last minute or so of his message struck me as being especially odd. Within less than 90 seconds, Haugen made no less than seven "violent" remarks aimed at his detractors (whoever they may be). Now, before you make assumptions, I realize that his remarks were metaphorical. Haugen was NOT directing anyone to violence and anyone who thinks otherwise is wrong. However, what I'm pointing out is the tone of those final 90 seconds.
I'm not a psychologist but I do understand the importance of words and how choosing certain words over others can reveal a lot about the speaker. As I listened to Haugen a second and third time, I wondered what he was feeling as he spoke those words. Why did he choose such aggressive phrases at the end of his message? Was he furious or just trying to motivate his team like a hard-nosed coach? I'm not really sure and I admit that I'm possibly making something out of nothing.
So, here's your chance to tell me what you think. Listen to the audio and let me know if you think I'm just too sensitive or if you agree that there's something odd about Haugen's tone. I debated whether I should even make this post or not but that little blogger voice said, "follow your instincts." Well, now I'm following those instincts, for better or worse.
Here are the "violent" phrases and the approximate time they are said in the audio:
"Kick butt" - 00:06» Listen to the audio excerpt of Randy Haugen's message (mp3)"Kick their teeth down their throat right in front of their face" - 00:15
"Kick butt" - 00:25
"Fight the fight" - 00:44
"Kick butt" - 00:47
"Kick some butt" - 01:14
"Let's cram it right down their throat and make this happen" - 01:26
- Need some quick buck?
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- Need some quick buck?
"He has a tremendous business oppurtunity"
- My Manifesto
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- My Manifesto
"Mr. Woodward, or whomever monitors this email..."
August 16, 2004
- Quixtar is the modern day Amway
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- Quixtar is the modern day Amway
Get rich quick scheme
Monday Reader Mail: 8
By QBlog in Reader Mail
Scott B. wrote me explaining why Quixtar isn't a "pyramid." I'm not sure I've ever said that Quixtar is a pyramid but I guess that's beside the point. Anyway, here's today's email. As always, my comments are in bold.
name: Scott B.My guess is that this last comment was a reference to my NOTICE on the Contact page where I discourage "idiots" from sending me email. I suppose I am an idiot because I actually DID send Scott a response. I haven't heard back from him but here's what I sent:
date: June 16, 2004message: I have a couple of comments for you, sir. DO you understand Quixtar cannot be a "pyramid"? A pyramid says the "up-line" will always make more than you. Maybe you did not grow enough (respectively speaking) to fully understand that your downline can make more than you. It's called structure. I can tell you about that later. Also, where you work, I am assuming you have to work, you are not rewarded for the amount of work you do, unless you are like many quiters in the business, who are naturally lazy and do not have work ethics anyway.
I tell you what, I want you to take this "bathroom wall writing" off the net and let people enjoy their life in a business where they find peace of mind.
How did you get to this Web page? I bet you either clicked a link or typed in a Web address. Nobody forced anybody to read my blog.
Even if I never made a dime more, I still love the people I associate with. They are people of character, dignity, people with morals and true friends and NO, not everyone will make it to the diamond level, but that is THEIR decision. Look at Larry Winters. 5 whole years before anything!!! happened and now he is living a 7 figure income lifestyle.
Good for Larry.
Amway, was an unbelievable company. I was never associated with them. In fact, I never heard of them until 2002.WHAT?!? Never heard of Amway? C'mon, you expect me to believe that? Ok, I guess it's possible if you're young. Still, it's hard to believe.
But I have done research, and they were EXTREMELY successful.
Still are. Guess which company accounts for the bulk (around 75% or more) of Alticor's revenues. It ain't Quixtar.
Forgive me, that is if you are making more than 1.2 billion this year, but I have a strong feeling you're not.
It's unfortunate that there are quiters, like yourself, that try to pull everyone else's dream down just because you don't have the "gut's" to keep your own dream alive.
If you're a complete idiot, don't bother sending a message. Or if you do send one, I'll know you're still a complete idiot.
Have a nice day.
Scott,I really try to avoid sounding like a smartass but I fear that I fail at that more than I succeed. Oh well. At least I try.Are you for real? This is a joke right? If so, you�re pretty funny. I like your style. If not then, well, you got me. I�m a quitter. Guilty as charged. Don�t let me stand in the way of your 7 figure income. I�m just a stupid Web person with a dumb Web site. My idiotic ramblings couldn�t possibly affect you or your efforts in Quixtar. The Web is just one giant bathroom wall, you sure got that right. Isn't Quixtar on the Web? Oh, well nevermind.
QBlog
August 15, 2004
Quixtianity?
By QBlog in
While listening to Orrin Woodward's speech (mp3) from Quixtar LIVE! I was reminded of the important role Christianity plays within Quixtar and its related organizations. Virtually all of my IBO friends are devout Christians. Many perceive their Quixtar business as a ministry for Christ as well as a way to make money. I've heard stories of IBOs who became Christians and turned their lives around after joining up with Quixtar.
Such testimony is undoubtedly an encouragement for Christians and it works to strengthen the resolve of many IBOs, further convincing them that THIS business is the "opportunity of a lifetime." However, there is a debate among some Christians about the teachings and philosophy of many Quixtar Christians. The debate goes something like this:
- The Quixtar Christians believe that God has given them an opportunity (in the form of Quixtar) to follow their dreams. Because they've been faithful to God's will, he has blessed them abundantly with financial freedom and the ability to help others achieve similar blessings.
- On the other side of the debate are those Christians who believe that to have faith in God is to blindly follow His will, no matter where it leads. If His will is to live in poverty, then He will provide for their every need. Their happiness and comfort is in knowing they're obeying God, not in driving a new Hummer or vacationing in Europe.
Some Christians point out similarities between the Quixtar Christians and the "name-it-and-claim-it" Chritians. This only intensifies the debate because both sides are quick to use scripture to back up their beliefs. What's always fascinated me about this debate is that both sides steadfastly believe that their understanding of Christianity is correct. There is little common ground as illustrated by a brief forum discussion at Christianity.com.
And yes, I understand both perspectives. I've engaged in several debates with friends on this very topic. Always the diplomat, I see merit in each argument and I also see flaws. However, there is one fundamental question that I believe Christians must always strive to answer in the affirmative: "Is what I'm doing right now pleasing the Lord?" If, as a Christian, you can't answer yes, then you probably need to reevaluate what it is that you're doing.
August 14, 2004
- Qrush don't have experience!
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- Qrush don't have experience!
"Qrush is a joke!"
August 13, 2004
Motion to Dismiss
By QBlog in
After publishing and discussing the lawsuit filed by Team of Destiny against Scott Larsen I learned the definition of a "Motion to Dismiss."
See, I'm not a lawyer and since PACER charges seven cents (not a lot but it can add up quickly) for each downloaded page I only wanted to pay for relevant information. Stuff like "VFM Fee Received" or "Proof of Service" didn't interest me because that seemed like routine legal crap. And so I skipped the "Motion to Dismiss," thinking it was just more routine legal crap. What I now understand is that the "Motion to Dismiss" is sort of like the defendant's version of the case.
» Download your copy of the Motion to Dismiss (pdf)
I must warn you, the Motion to Dismiss (while brief) is not a "page-turner." It's filled with legalese that is somewhat difficult for a person like me to read. However, there is one point made in the MOD that I found especially intriguing. Apparently the Team of Destiny has not denied the veracity of any of Scott Larsen's claims.
TOD has not asserted a libel claim or made any claim for damages because of false statements by Larsen.Is this omission because Larsen speaks the truth? Or is it due to some stealth-ninja lawyer tactics? Ninja Lawyer Death Squad ACTIVATE!
;0)
Marks - Chapter 15
By QBlog in
Marks is a novel that tells the story of a young married couple, two college roommates and a successful businessman whose lives ultimately intertwine as the result of a business opportunity — and a dream. Quixtar BLOG is publishing Marks as a serial, making a new installment available every Friday. All previous chapters are archived here on the blog so if you missed any just search for "Marks" and you should be caught up in no time.
Disclaimer: This book has not been through a final edit. There may be some misspelled words and grammatical errors. Please understand that as you read through the novel.
» Chapter 15
“Mrs. Remly?”
Teri pulled her eyes open and turned her head toward the door. Instead of the orderly, ready with a wheelchair to take her for another excruciating hour with the physical therapist, she was surprised to see a magnificent spray of peach roses. The arrangement was so large that it burst outside of the frame of the doorway.
“May I come in?” asked a voice from the other side of the wall of flowers.
“Of course,” Teri answered. She breathed deeply and let the thick floral aroma fill her lungs.
A large, blond man in jeans and a denim workshirt pushed the arrangement in and carried it to the corner under the wall-mounted television.
“Here okay? You’ll be able to see it from the bed and anyone passing by will get a nice glimpse of it.”
“That’s fine.” Teri couldn’t take her eyes off of the flowers. They were arranged in a plain urn and shot out at all angles. She guessed that the display was over four foot high.
“How many roses is that?” she asked. “Five dozen?”
“Six,” the delivery man answered.
“Is there a card?” Teri was surprised at such an extravagant gift and more than a little confused. Tom could never afford a present like this. Even if money were no longer an issue, her husband would never think of such an impractical but beautiful gesture.
August 12, 2004
Truth and Business
By QBlog in
I was reading through Chapter Three of the cluetrain manifesto (again) and just HAD to enter this email excerpt before I drifted off to sleep. The following quote is like a sidebar or pullquote in the book so it doesn't appear in the free, online version. See what you think.Any thoughts on this?There is no longer a single source for "The Truth." You can no longer download the corporate PR campaign as reality and go from there. You are now hearing many voices, many "truths," and will have to pick and choose and integrate. A company's fear is that a lone voice with an axe to grind will make up a "truth" as plausible as anything the Marketing department has come up with, but harmful to the company, and it'll be adopted as the "truth" irrespective of the facts.
The reality is that when malicious propaganda happens (and it will happen), the truth will out. That is the glorious thing about the markets of opinion; no opinion stands unchallenged. This is the real fear many corporations have of the markets of opinion, that their white propaganda — they are the Galahads of the industry, pure and good and perfect — will also not survive the challenges of the market of opinions.
They're right, they won't. Cope. The corporations will be revealed to be made up of fallible human beings. Just like us.
- Brian Hurt, e-mail to cluetrain.com
Who Owns Quixtar?
By QBlog in
I was reading an OLD post from the (now stagnant) MLM Whatever Blog that asked if anyone knew who owns Quixtar? This is actually something I've wondered for a while myself. Maybe it's as simple as saying that it's owned by Alticor? I don't know. Is there any documentation that clearly demonstrates who owns Quixtar? Forgive my ignorance here. Any help is appreciated.
- Annoyance last night
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- Annoyance last night
"Last night I went to Barnes & Noble..."
August 11, 2004
Discovering the Quixtar Controversy
By QBlog in
A California blogger named "Jigar" has discovered the curious and often compelling nature of Quixtar Conversations on the Web.
His August 11 post muses:
People seem to be really interested in everyone's favorite semi-pyramid scheme. Yes, Quixtar and BWW are on everyone's minds. People have been leaving a few comments too.Jigar's observation is that people love controversy and, regardless of the facts, are drawn to debates about controversial topics that often have little impact on how we live our lives.
Maybe it's the controversy that draws me to this Quixtar conversation time and time again? The variety of opinions and emotions involved with Quixtar has always fascinated me and whenever I begin to lose interest, something else comes along that makes me say, "Hmmmmm... what's this all about?"
What draws you to this Quixtar conversation?
August 10, 2004
When I Grow Up
By QBlog in
"Daddy, when I grow up I'm gonna be a fireman," my son exclaimed from his car seat.
"Really? Well that's great son, why do you want to be a fireman?" I asked, glancing at him in the rearview mirror, spotting a faded ring of chocolate fudge that circled his lips.
"Actually, because they save people," he stated matter-of-factly.
"Yes they do."
"And I want to ride horses," my daughter added. "Like in a rodeo." She had successfully removed all evidence of the sundae from her mouth but was still licking her lips, perhaps reflexively.
"Wonderful!" I proclaimed. "Maybe you can spend some time riding with your cousins next summer."
"That would be awesome!"
Yeah. As we drove home I reflected on all the things my two kids have wanted to be during their short lives. Policeman. Ballerina. Doctor. Rescue Hero. Musician. And the list goes on.
And suddenly a thought occurred to me. Kids have so many dreams and want to be so many things but do any children ever want to become Quixtar IBOs?
Has a child ever said, "Daddy, when I grow up I want to be a Quixtar IBO?"
August 9, 2004
Opinions about Kiyosaki
By QBlog in
This Live Journal post from jerryfaust lists three specific criticisms of author Robert Kiyosaki. I've included excerpts:
1. Kiyosaki devalues education by maintaining that a college degree is not needed to become rich and 'successful'...I admit, I'm also troubled by some of the things Kiyosaki preaches (and I've read Rich Dad, Poor Dad). I think jerryfaust makes some interesting points and Kiyosaki's attitude towards education is alarming.2. Kiyosaki is enthusiastically supported by "multi-level marketing" organizations, including Amway, and he was the keynote speaker of a Quixtar conference in 2000...
3. Kiyosaki hawks a $200 board game on his website called Cash Flow, an outrageously-priced 'educational tool' that is eerily reminiscent of the prayer cloths purveyed by now-defunct religious huckster Robert Tilton...
Monday Reader Mail: 7
By QBlog in Reader Mail
This Reader Mail is from someone who does not want to become a millionaire. That's probably a good thing because the Quixtar bonus money will only sustain approximately 200 of them.
name: SteenWell, at least Steen is a happy IBO.
date: May 21, 2004message: Yes- I agree that quixtar is not the "best business" out there....but you know what -- no buisness perfect...NONE- nadda....and not everyone who does become an IBO wants to make millions of dollars.....what if you just would be happy with $80k-$90K a year?
How many Quixtar IBOs are making $80-90 grand a year? According to Quixtar's own numbers, the bonus money paid out could only sustain approximately 2,500 IBOs at the $80,000 level.
One thing that I do think is impt. make sure you know your upline- and trust them-- if they are all about money money money-- then this buisness is really going to be a pain. I started this buisness a little while ago- and I have met some really sussessful people ( on my team- and not on my team-just friends who are participating) sooooo it is possible. With the tape and books you can buy- yes that has always been an option for me - I was never forced to buy them- and I only spend about $12/month on that stuff. I think so many people just get too carried away with this business- emotionally--
I agree. Business should not be about emotions, ever.
My "other job" is in advertising sales- YEAH it's hard --GOSH- you better believe it!!! But I love people -- and I love meeting buisness owners from all walks of life-- so that's what makes it worth it for me-- it just seemed that Quixtar was right up my ally in regards to opportunity! And NO I don't want to be a millionaire and --duh...it's not hard to see that YES of course someone makes a profit on the books and tapes...but just like any other buisness someone is always AT THE TOP...
Yes, someone is at the top aren't they?
..so bottom line- why don't people just step back and think - logically and practically..... someone is always going to make a profit off of the books and tapes-- and yes-- just liike any "sales" type job this buisness takes work!! So many people just think the dollars are just going to roll in- NO nothing in this world is free- it takes work!! So- let me know your suggestions- please title your reply "Quixtar reply" -- thanks for your time :)
My suggestion is to go to school and learn how to manage money. Not the best suggestion but it's a start.
- Quixtar Sucks
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- Quixtar Sucks
"Don't let anybody fool ya"
? Make me rich
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
? Make me rich
"They started shouting 'Freedom!'"
August 8, 2004
Quote of the day
By QBlog in
"Never underestimate the power of the truth. Truth crushed to the ground will rise again."
? Legitimacy of BWW/Quixtar IBO?
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
? Legitimacy of BWW/Quixtar IBO?
"I have been thinking about dropping the ... $150 to get set up and started"
+ I'm a practical girl
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
+ I'm a practical girl
"It's a win-win situation"
- Mixed Feelings
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- Mixed Feelings
"What she's promoting is, well, bull..."
"Real Quixtar Blog" Exposed
By QBlog in
UPDATE: The "Real Quixtar Blog" is apparently responding to this post and explaining the specific relationship with Quixtar. Cool. Looks like the author(s) is wanting to take this blog thing seriously. One suggestion, if you want to blog then turn on some sort of Permalink function. Without this, there's no way to link to a specific post. Are you listening? I understand no comments (though I may disagree) but no Permalinks is a little silly to me.
I love blogging. I love how blogs have eroded the power of the Information Gatekeepers and empowered the masses. I love how blogs are enabling the 95 Theses of the Cluetrain Manifesto to become a reality. And because of my affinity for blogging, I try to embrace those who join this publishing revolution regardless of their opinion, agenda or motive.
The latest blog to receive my "blogging embrace" calls itself "The Real Quixtar Blog" (realquixtarblog.com). It's billed as an "insider's perspective" and claims to detail the life of a Quixtar employee (not an IBO). The blog is new and has only a couple of posts but I suspect its archives will be filled soon enough. It's a curious blog and I'll be watching as it develops. I suggest you do the same.
Quixtar Is Blogging
However, there are some facts that I think you should know about this "Real Quixtar Blog" that aren't immediately evident to the casual reader. The first fact is that this blog is owned by Quixtar. That's right. A quick WHOIS search at Network Solutions reveals that the domain is registered to Quixtar Investments, Inc.
I find no information on the blog indicating that Quixtar is paying the hosting bills for the site but such information would probably be of interest to most readers. Does it interest you?
Blog History
The blog is actually version two of "Real Quixtar Blog." The first version, started in July, was a BlogHarbor blog and appeared to be nothing more than the musings of a Quixtar employee (the blog has been removed from BlogHarbor but a Google cache is available for now).
On the BlogHarbor version, the author (using the name Kia) posted about vacations, the wonders of XS drinks, exercising and Quixtar news. After reading the blog, one got the impression that "Kia" was a real person posting about life at Quixtar. What we now learn is that "Kia" is not a person but a fictional character representative of "real" Quixtar employees. While I love full disclosure, I believe it should be done at the launch of a blog, not after a month of posting. But that's just me.
Paid to Blog?
"Kia" has admitted to posting "during work hours" but provides a rationale for blogging on the clock and indicates that his manager may not mind as long as the work gets done. When I first read this, I accepted it as truth but now I'm wondering if "Kia" is being paid to blog for Quixtar. I've sent an email asking for an explanation and will update this post as soon as I know the truth.
The BlogHarbor Connection
I find it interesting that this blog initially began (version one in July) at BlogHarbor. We know that this former BlogHarbor blog is owned by Quixtar and would it be such a stretch to assume that the myriad of other Quixtar bloggers using the BlogHarbor software are similarly connected to the Quixtar corporation? I don't know but it's something to think about.
So What?
So, who cares about all this blogging nonsense anyway? Why should I care if some person or company wants to blog about how great they are or their wonderful company? Good questions. The reason I've gone to the trouble to point out some things about this blog is that all the best blogs are honest, candid and WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). If I visit Instapundit I'd be upset to learn that Glenn Reynolds is really a fictitious character made up by the Republican Party. Good blogs can be trusted and when inconsistencies are discovered, that trust is compromised. Has the integrity of the "Real Quixtar Blog" been compromised? You have the facts, make up your own mind.
About Comments
One final note. The "Real Quixtar Blog" does not allow public comments. This is fine and even I turn off comments on selected posts. However, the rationale given for omitting such a feature tells me (this is my opinion) that Quixtar has learned nothing about the nature of information and conversations. In Kia's first post on the new blog, we read that he's "been told that I might be opening this site up to a lot of crap" if comments are enabled. This may be true but you also might be allowing hundreds and thousands of Quixtar IBOs a place to share their enthusiasm for Quixtar. And aren't thinking adults able to distinguish the "wheat from the chaf?"
August 7, 2004
Marks - Chapter 14
By QBlog in
Due to the recent server crash, Marks is being published today instead of Friday. I apologize for the delay.
Marks is a novel that tells the story of a young married couple, two college roommates and a successful businessman whose lives ultimately intertwine as the result of a business opportunity — and a dream. Quixtar BLOG is publishing Marks as a serial, making a new installment available every Friday. All previous chapters are archived here on the blog so if you missed any just search for "Marks" and you should be caught up in no time.
Disclaimer: This book has not been through a final edit. There may be some misspelled words and grammatical errors. Please understand that as you read through the novel.
» Chapter 14
“How are you feeling, Mrs. Remly?”
Teri forced her eyes open. After two tries, she focused on the source of the voice — a woman dressed in floral hospital scrubs.
“Fine,” she answered automatically. When she tried to sit up, though, she realized that she was anything but.
“What happened to me?” Teri asked. Her voice was weak and her throat dry.
“You were in a car accident,” the woman answered. “You broke both legs, right under the kneecap, and scratched yourself up quite a bit but you are going to be fine.”
Teri managed to lift her head slightly and survey her two plastered legs. She looked back up at the woman. First she studied her name badge — Cathy Morgan, RN — then she lifted her eyes and searched the kind face.
“The baby?”
Bad Server, Bad
By QBlog in
Early Friday morning, my server died. It experienced a major malfunction and did not come back online after rebooting; interrupting all Web, ftp and email services. However, all incoming mail was queued so no email was lost. Some email may not show up in my inbox immediately but I should get it, eventually.
The server had to be completely rebuilt as there were some hardware failures in addition to the software crash. After the new server was restored, all data was reloaded and back online early this morning. While I don't believe any data were lost, there is a slight possibility that things posted 20 hours prior to the outage are missing. That was when the last full backup of the site was performed. If you notice any missing information or any problems with certain features of this site, please notify me via email. Please do not post a comment about it here as I may not be checking these comments regularly for a couple of days.
Thanks for your patience and I apologize for this inconvenience. These things do happen and hopefully they don't happen too often. This is the first such outage in three years and I pray that it never happens again. A lot has been learned from this experience and certain precautions will be taken to ensure that the new server won't die.
August 5, 2004
- No Selling Involved!
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
- No Selling Involved!
"As the pitch goes, there's no selling involved"
August 4, 2004
Qrush-ing the Quixtar Critics
By QBlog in Web Initiative
There's a new blog on the Web and I absolutely love it. It's called QRush The Quixtar Critics (pronounced Crush) and its author is a self-described cross between Rush Limbaugh and Rich DeVos on a mission to "expose the left wing conspiracy plot to overthrow the Quixtar business." And guess what? According to QRush, yours truly is part of that liberal conspiracy plot. Wow!
Why do I love this blog so much? Well, probably because it's honest and raw. It pulls no punches and says what is probably on the minds of a lot of IBOs. It defines the debate in quasi-political terms — as conservatives against liberals, free enterprise lovers taking on commie traitors. QRush adeptly constructs the "us versus them" scenario and is off to a bombastic start. My only criticism is the blog's lack of comments. I think enabling comments would add another dimension to this polarizing discussion.
QRush and I may disagree on some things but I admire him/her for being candid. The first post asks "Why me?" and concludes with "Ok, I accept. Let's go." I can relate to those sentiments with my Quixtar BLOG. Those "why me?" questions plague me. And yet I continue, driven my some hidden instinct to keep on demanding answers, sharing my perspectives and searching for the truth about Quixtar.
I can relate to the anger evident in QRush's posts. The desire to lash out and attack those perceived enemies. That's very real and I respect that. I understand how genuine this blog is and for that reason, I am thrilled by its existence.
I also realize that QRush's blog is partly constructed as an attack on me (and this blog) and some assumptions are made about me and my motives. I try to avoid assumptions and will only reply by saying that when one makes assumptions about me, one is often wrong.
And for the record, I have no loyalty to anyone in this Quixtar conversation. Unlike some, I'm not trying to "save" anyone from anything. I don't want to see the destruction of Quixtar and I certainly don't want any IBOs to fail at their business. I'm simply searching for the truth about Quixtar and its related businesses. Some view that search as an attack and nothing I say will convince them otherwise.
Anyway, go check out QRush The Quixtar Critics. Love it or hate it, I think you'll agree that it's the "real deal."
A Request: If you love QRush's blog and want to leave comments about it, you may do so here but please send QRush an email requesting the same type of access on his/her blog that you receive here.
+ Quixtar and Rush?
By QBlog in Quixtar Chatter
+ Quixtar and Rush?
"Give me any information you can on the three aformentioned individuals."
August 3, 2004
TOD v. Scott Larsen
By QBlog in
WARNING: If you have ADD the following post may cause:
- Fidgeting
- Restlessness
- Impatience
- Severe boredom
- Yawns
- Drowsiness
Consider yourself warned.
As I stated previously, I received a subpoena (via First Class mail) from a Team of Destiny lawyer requesting information for a lawsuit filed by TOD against Scott Larsen (filed on March 15, 2004, amended June 28, 2004). Obviously, this piqued my interest and so I turned to PACER (a public service) to see what I could find.
What I found was a rather interesting complaint (interesting to me at least) and was surprised at some of (what I believe to be) the inaccuracies (and oddities) contained within the suit. I won't comment on the overall merit of the complaint nor will I give my opinion about who is right or wrong. Instead, I'll let you read over the entire complaint (including all 32 exhibits) and make up your own mind.
I'm posting links to a pdf version of the complaint which includes every exhibit I could find. This pdf is about 12.5 megs, so if you'd like to mirror the rather large file to help save bandwidth I would really appreciate it.
» Team of Destiny, Inc. v. Scott A. Larsen (pdf)» Team of Destiny, Inc. v. Scott A. Larsen (pdf) Mirror
» Team of Destiny, Inc. v. Scott A. Larsen (pdf) Mirror 2
» Team of Destiny, Inc. v. Scott A. Larsen (pdf) Mirror 3
» Team of Destiny, Inc. v. Scott A. Larsen (pdf) Mirror 4
» Team of Destiny, Inc. v. Scott A. Larsen (pdf) Mirror 5
» Team of Destiny, Inc. v. Scott A. Larsen (pdf) Mirror 6
And of course, after my experience with the Blakey Report I made sure that this complaint wasn't under some sort of protective order. It's my understanding that documents on PACER are publicly available and aren't subject to any seal. In fact, if you want to download a copy of this complaint from PACER, you just need to set up a free account and start downloading. It's really pretty simple.
Finally, though I'm not commenting on the overall merit of the complaint, I will mention a few of the inaccuracies (and oddities) that I perceived. What follows are observations I've made about ten specific paragraphs within the complaint. Quotes from the complaint are in italics and my comments are not.
August 2, 2004
Monday Reader Mail: 6
By QBlog in Reader Mail
Today's Reader Mail selection is from someone claiming to be in San Jose. The message contains an interesting suggestion, one that I think Quixtar should notice.
As always, my comments appear in bold
name: San Jose IBOWell, I doubt I could start a blog about Quixtar success stories but I'm sure somebody out there will do so. After all, the "blogging is for losers" excuse about the past IBO blogging void has been stripped away since Jody Victor, Orrin Woodward, Fred Harteis and others started blogging last month.
date: July 19, 2004message: Hey Eric....I'm a happy IBO building a successful Quixtar business....I read your About page.....thanks for being real and not trying to be another "negative" site out there. I'm glad you said the truth about the whole cult crap, Amway, etc....it gets old answering those "common" sense questions people keep asking.
I understand what you mean but doesn't that just come with the territory? I mean, Microsoft folks still field questions about the "evil Bill Gates."
Maybe you can create another Blog site ONLY for people with success stories, so those that are doing "real" research can see that this business works if you work it...which most people don't
August 1, 2004
The Subpoena from Thomas A. Kuiper
By QBlog in
Upon my return from a family vacation last week I discovered a letter addressed to "Quixtar Blog" in my stack of mail.
"What could this be?" I wondered to myself. The return address was "Wheeler Upham: A Professional Corporation" from Grand Rapids, MI.
I was immediately relieved that the letter was from a "professional corporation" because mail from unprofessional corporations is such a bother. So, I tore into the envelope, eager to learn what this "professional corporation" had to say to little ole "Quixtar Blog."
What I found was a subpoena from a lawyer named Thomas A. Kuiper. He's apparently representing Orrin Woodward's Quixtar group, Team of Destiny, in a lawsuit against Scott Larsen. The subpoena was a demand for information about Larsen and a blog post about his visit to a Team of Destiny meeting.
The information Kuiper wanted was stuff that I simply do not have and am not really sure some of it even exists. What follows are the four requests from the subpoena with my commentary in bold (actual scan of the information requested in the subpoena).
Please produce all of the following:1. Any documents regarding or identifying any name, fake name, blog name and/or pseudonym used by Scott A. Larsen on, with, or in connection with QuixtarBlog.
Well, there's only one that I can think of but it looks like everyone else knows about it too (see second request).
2. Every posting by and to Scott A. Larsen or any name used by him (e.g., "whoz") on QuixtarBlog from January 1, 2002 through the date of your response to this request.Well, let's see. Every post made since this blog began (in November 2002 not January) was made by me unless otherwise noted. I thought that was pretty clear. Anyone else confused?
3. Produce any and all information showing the number of hits, links to, or people who visited Scott A. Larsen's website (sic) based on the January 15, 2004 QuixtarBlog entry entitled, "Scott Larsen Visits Team of Destiny."Actually, it was entitled "Scott Larsen Visits TOD" but who's keeping score?
First of all, anyone who knows anything about stats knows that they are generally incomplete. Most Web sites (like this one) have what I refer to as "poor man's stats tools" where robust and detailed traffic information is simply nonexistent. Sure, I can track referrers (on a limited basis) and bandwidth usage and even some search terms but I have nothing close to what Kuiper is requesting. If someone does have a free stats tool that closely tracks individual pages and exiting traffic then let me know and I'll get hooked up.
I guess it's Kuiper's duty to at least ask if I have such info. I don't (wish I did) and so we move on.
4. Please produce any and all documents that show or identify who posted the January 15, 2004 entry, "Scott Larsen Visits Team of Destiny," and/or who provided the information to QuixtarBlog concerning Scott Larsen visiting/attending a Team of Destiny open meeting.Yeah, uh... I posted the Jan. 15 entry. What would lead anyone to believe that I was not the author of that post? This is where I'm just really confused. Again, I guess Kuiper has to at least ask but I mean, was there ever any question in anyone's mind? Help me out here.
And as to who provided the information... well I don't know, maybe Larsen when he published it for the entire world to read on his public Web site? I mean it's not like it was some hidden page or something. Anyone following the Quixtar Saga checks his site regularly (or should).
I really don't remember where I first learned of his visit to TOD. I certainly didn't get a secret email or phone call from Larsen saying, "Psssst... hey, check out this Web page I just put up and if you don't link it on your site, I'll break your legs."
I called Kuiper last Tuesday and basically told him most of what I've commented here. We had what I'd characterize as a friendly chat (mp3) and I hung up wanting to learn as much as possible about the Team of Destiny lawsuit.
And of course, I recorded the conversation (mp3) and I invite you to listen to the unedited (except for dead-air) eleven and a half minute phone call.
By the way, aren't subpoena's supposed to be served? This was the first one I've ever heard of that was delivered via First Class mail. Weird.