Pay it Forward! I was given an amazing referral while working a side gig...an inspirational read.

Most of you know, I have been an unemployed entrepreneur since 2008 struggling to make my dreams come true with my invention, The iTie. It's funny how things come together in times when you least expect it. While working a side job yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting a gentleman by the name of Bart. What is most surprising is the manner in which we met. I was working as a driver for Oracle here in Tampa, transporting clients to and from the convention center and their hotels...out of 3 available drivers, I got Bart. During the ride to his hotel, Bart asked me what my day job was...I proceeded to tell him my story about being laid off in 2008, inventing my product, and developing The iTie into Anchor Neckwear. Bart not only loved the idea, he took it upon himself to write a detailed Email to 100 people in his professional network. Needless to say, I was blown away with his kindness and his "Pay it Forward" attitude to life. During these tough times, his refreshing outlook on life has influenced me to pay it forward more often. I hope his thoughtful email does the same for you, here it is:

Subject: Pay it forward

Hi everyone. I hope you are doing well.

As many of you know, I am currently in Tampa for a conference. While here, I had the pleasure of meeting Joe Sale, who is the President and Founder of iTie (currently being rebranded as Anchor Neckwear). Mr. Sale lost his job in 2008 due to the economy. In the spirit of true entrepreneurship, he started his own company that specializes in neckwear. The great news is that he is on to something with his ties, but needs help spreading the word.

Those who know me best know that I am a big believer in “pay it forward” and “random acts of kindness.” Mr. Sale is working as a driver at the conference I am attending and shared his story with me. He was wearing one of his ties and I will be buying a couple of them. I was so impressed with him, his ties and his story that I committed to helping him out by sharing his story with each of you. If you are currently in the market for a new tie, you would be well served to consider one of his. If not, perhaps you will be impressed enough to forward this message to someone who might be in the market for a new tie.

Here are the basics: His current website is www.theitie.com. On that website you will see the concept. Anyone who wears a tie from time to time will know how frustrating it is when they flap in the wind, get twisted, etc. Also, those who have a mind toward efficiency will recognize that a tie is wasted space that could be used for other purposes. Mr. Sale has an invention that solves those problems. In short, he has a new solution to an old problem. His new website is a reflection of his re-branding efforts and will be: www.anchorties.com, though this website is not yet operational. His inventory is being updated and things are changing as I type this, so feel free to check back often. The main point, though, is that he has a good product and needs help in spreading the word and generating sales.

If you have no interest, feel free to delete this email. If you are interested, though, please take a few moments to help Mr. Sale establish his business.

Thank you.

Bart T.

2009 - A big year for The iTie

I would first like to thank all of you for your continued support, it means the World to me. 2009 is sure to bring a lot of changes for all of us, hopefully positive ones. In my efforts to increase awareness of my invention, The iTie and iTie pocket, 2009 will be a very productive year for me.

After the inauguration and the transition to Obama, I will be putting out a press release. Utilizing a very cool company http://www.ereleases.com/. This will help generate awareness on a national level.

I am also pursuing my number one prospect for a licensing agreement. I am sure this will be challenging but it is my best option for success. A licensing agreement will let a company with the necessary resources available to take The iTie to the next level.

In addition, I will be attending Superbowl parties and activities in Tampa, Running in the 5k Gasparilla Classic (wearing an iTie), and much more.

I look forward to having you come along for the ride....let's make 2009 a great year both professionally and personally.

Please visit the iTie website at http://www.theitie.com.