POST 9-11 WTC-I
"You gain strenght, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really look fear in the face": Eleanor Roosevelt. I was in the WTC-1 when the first plane hit. As a former Marine, I'd been taught how not to panic and to quickly access what was going on. After walking down 39 flights of smoke-filled stairs I stood outside watching the unspeakable. Like all of us, 9-11 changed my life...
As a little boy I grew up on Cape Cod fishing. I'd always wanted to start a business I love, and fishing-related would do it.
In 2006 I started LOCAL RODS. A custom, high-end, built in New England fishing rod manufacturer. In two years I have gone from 0 to over 600 rods. I have gained a reputation as one of the finest fishing rods available. I'm bringing the pride and built-in-the-USA back here to New England. I've got a patent-pending on a unique way to build a rod, and I'm working on another device I can't go into here, but will revolutionize how rods are built. My tag line is: GET BENT (as in bending rods) My first series of rods are the Mistress Series, I just started the Pro Series this year. I've got a pink rod for the ladies too! Yes, there are a LOT of serious female anglers!
I am looking to build LOCAL RODS and hire between 6-8 "S" within the next 12-18 months. In addition to the rods, I have a great line of LOCAL RODS apparel (hats, t-shirts, sweat-shirts, etc...) The LOCAL Cook Book almost complete now. I am working on building the brand: LOCAL . Soon it will be the Good Housekeeping seal of approval for fishing/outdoor gear and equipment.
To see a video clip of some shark fishing, go to www.localrods.com and watch the sharkin video...
Thanks for taking the time! And if you fish: go GET BENT! Bob...
Never, never, never, never, never quit! Winners never quit, quitters never win! The word NO does not exist. Anything can be done if you really want to. Remember; brick walls are really only there to see how badly you want something! Stay very focused and motivated. It's a lot of L O N G hard work. It's not easy... But you can do it!
Comments
Wow - when I first read the name of your business, I was very confused. :)
But, I love this story. So inspiring that you have found and are following your passion.
Great advice! I love the never, never quit part best. Sometimes when things are down it's hard to remember, but it's really the only way to get what you want. Thanks for the reminder.
Kirasw, Glad to help.... :-)
A completely awesome story. Seems odd to say heartwarming, but IT IS, just charming!
Great example of the entrepreneurial spirit that we need to keep America strong. If everybody had goals and the perseverance to follow through, we all would be much better off. Keep the positive attitude going!!!
I really like the idea of "Built-in-the-USA" quality. I am even willing to pay a premium for that. Congratulations for making it through the first couple of years - they are usually the most difficult. As you achieve more name recognition, your business should grow. I think this is a great market, as fishing will always be popular... and you need a rod to fish! Best wishes and keep up the good work!
I am sure being in the WTC when the planes hit was a life altering experience. You should be proud of all you are accomplishing, doing what you love.
Having been near death myself a few times I can relate to how it galvanizes one into looking for what you really WANT to do with your life - and if you aren't doing it - you move and commit yourself to finding it.
I appreciated the story - even though fishing rods may sound a bit trivial, the point behind the story is not.
Wonderful, inspirational story. Wishing you the best and good luck!!! Not that you need it;the rods are amazing and sell themselves!!!!!! Be well LG
All I can say is God Bless you and God Bless America- you are an inspiration and the definition of ameri-CAN- Good Luck.
I love the rods and your commitment to a quality product, and your determination.
I also salute you for your service for our country.
Great concept, great punch, great story
Thank you for sharing uplifting, successful small business news when so many others are spreading cynicism and failure. Here's to your next 600 rods!
You are the MAN! Truly too good to be true. After graduating in 8 months from now maybe you'll need an extra "[removed]" for a little while ;)
Great story!
I know Bob and I know all about his courage and strength which are as deep and as full of conviction as his singular love of fishing. Bob is an example of what we can live through and then what we can live up to.
If you look up courage in the dictionary there should be a picture of Bob Jenkins (with a fishing pole of course.) The man is an example and inspires me every day.....
You've got to love people who follow their passion! So inspirational! And nothing like a sense of humor added in....
You and enrepreneurs like you are what america is all about. I am sure you are one Marine who won't stop until you're the premier custom rod manufacturer in the country - I wish you all the success in the world.
Great story and inspiring! We need to build American business's all over the country!
great guy, great story, great service, great company, great product. What else could you say besides: "Get Bent with a Local [removed]"? Keep it up, Bob.
What an inspiring story. It's clear that you were able to allow your 9/11 experience to be a springboard into the life that you were always intended to create for yourself.
What an inspiring story. It's clear that you were able to allow your 9/11 experience to be a springboard into the life that you were always intended to create for yourself.
bob, you've inspired us in more ways than you know! get bent!
You have always had a positive outlook, no matter what life has thrown your way! You are a model for others! Never give up!
Glad to see people are working towards bringing back the "made in the USA" brand. Great story and please let's "Get Bent" down in NJ sometime!
You are an inspiring example of what makes America great! Your hard work and positive attitude make you a wonderful role model for us all. All the best for Local [removed] Rods.
As a person who has known you for over 40 years I can atest to your amazing attitude and quest the the passions in life. If its gonna be it is up to me> Get Bent!
Realizing and following through on your decision to leave the rat race and follow your dream is commendable. To introduce a new rod and have success with it,shows determination and hard work and more hard work. This is why we live in the USA, dreams can be realized. You show people everywhere that you can start again.
This Guy Deserves a break. I've seen his top quality rods and I know his integrity. This company can be a proud and welcome addition to our local economy and to the economy of other states who's dealers carry LOCAL [removed] RODS!
Hard working, dedicated, honest, and real are all but a few adjectives that describe Bob Jenkins. There is no limit to where Local [removed] can go with Bob at the helm. I'm proud to know him. You go Big Guy!
Thank you all VERY VERY much!
Your great attitude about life shines through with your sense of humor. It's great that you figured out how to make a living doing what brings you joy.