Unwrap the Season with Columbia: A Holiday Gift Guide for Adventure Enthusiasts
By Aaron Herman
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to turn our attention to finding the perfect gifts for our loved ones. If you have an adventure enthusiast on your list, look no further than Columbia, one of the best apparel companies on the market today. Known for blending cutting-edge technology into their clothing and apparel, Columbia has something special for everyone who loves the great outdoors.
Columbia Women’s Bird Mountain II Insulated Jacket
Elevate Your Skiing Experience
For the skiing aficionado in your life, the Columbia Women’s Bird Mountain II Insulated Jacket is a game-changer. This ski jacket seamlessly combines style, functionality, and the latest in outdoor technology to create a must-have winter essential.
Key Features:
– Omni-Heat™ Infinity Advanced Thermal Reflective Technology: Stay warm even in the chilliest conditions with Columbia’s most advanced thermal-reflective technology.
– Omni-Heat™ Recycled Synthetic Down: This eco-friendly insulation ensures that you stay warm without compromising on your environmental values.
– Omni-Heat™ Stretch Insulation: Enjoy two-way comfort stretch for maximum flexibility on the slopes.
– Waterproof/Breathable Fabric: Stay dry and comfortable with the jacket’s waterproof and breathable fabric.
– Adjustable Hood, Hem, and Cuffs: Customize the fit to your liking, providing optimal protection against the elements.
– Ski Pass and Goggle Pockets: Conveniently designed pockets for your ski pass and goggles, keeping your essentials close at hand.
– Removable, Foldable Synthetic Fur: Switch up your look while staying cozy with the removable fur feature.
– Center Back Length: 28.5″: A stylish and practical length for all your winter adventures.
– Uses: Ski/Snowsports: Perfect for hitting the slopes and embracing the winter wonderland.
This jacket is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a statement. Gift the thrill-seeker in your life the Columbia Women’s Bird Mountain II Insulated Jacket and watch them conquer the mountains in style.
Columbia Men’s OutDry™ Extreme Gold Down Jacket
Conquer Winter with Cutting-Edge Technology
For the trailblazer who seeks adventure even in the coldest months, the Columbia Men’s OutDry Ex Gold Down Hooded Jacket is the answer. Designed with Columbia’s OutDry technology, this jacket is a triumph of innovation and functionality.
Key Features:
– OutDry™ Extreme Waterproof-Breathable Construction: Defy the elements with this impenetrable shell that keeps you dry inside and out.
– Omni-Heat™ Infinity with Thermal-Reflective Gold Dots: Experience instant warmth with the advanced thermal-reflective lining.
– Heat Seal Stitch-Free Baffling: Say goodbye to cold spots and embrace reliable warmth with bonded horizontal baffles.
– Responsible Down Standard (RDS) Certified: Ensure humane manufacturing practices with responsibly sourced down insulation.
– 700 Fill-Power Down Insulation: Stay warm, lofty, and dry, even in damp conditions, thanks to premium down insulation.
– PU Vislon® Center-Front and Hand Pocket Zippers: Lightweight and durable zippers add to the jacket’s functionality.
– Adjustable Hood, Hem, and Elastic Cuffs: Achieve the perfect fit for ultimate protection against wind and rain.
– Chin Guard: Protect against chafing for a comfortable wear all day long.
– Center Back Length: 28″: A versatile length for hiking and outdoor activities.
– Uses: Hiking: Whether on the trail or in the city, this jacket is a reliable companion for all your adventures.
Give the gift of ultimate protection and style this holiday season with the Columbia Men’s OutDry Ex Gold Down Hooded Jacket. Perfect for the adventurer who embraces the winter season with open arms.
Conclusion
This holiday season, Columbia has your back (and front!) with their innovative and stylish apparel. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or conquering the trails, Columbia’s commitment to quality and technology shines through in every piece. Make this holiday memorable for your adventure-loving friends and family by gifting them the best in outdoor apparel. Wrap up the spirit of exploration with Columbia, and let the adventures begin!
Unwrap Adventure: The Ultimate Men’s Outdoor Gift Guide- Columbia
By: Aaron Herman
‘Tis the season for giving, and if there’s a special man in your life who loves the great outdoors, we’ve got the perfect holiday gift guide for you. Whether he’s an avid hiker, a seasoned skier, or just someone who enjoys a good stroll in the rain, we’ve handpicked three exceptional gifts that will keep him comfortable and stylish during his adventures. This year, give the gift of breathable, high-performance outerwear from Columbia Sportswear.
1. Men’s OutDry Extreme Mesh Hooded Rain Shell Jacket
Conquer the Rain with OutDry™ Extreme
When it comes to facing the elements head-on, the Men’s OutDry Extreme Mesh Hooded Rain Shell Jacket is a game-changer. This jacket features Columbia’s innovative OutDry™ Extreme technology, ensuring that your adventurous man stays dry and comfortable even in the heaviest downpours.
Specifications:
– OutDry™ EXTREME waterproof/breathable fully seam-sealed
– External seam tape for added waterproofing
– Bonded hood brim for durability
– Drawcord adjustable hood for a customized fit
– Peripheral hood adjustment for enhanced visibility
– Abrasion-resistant chin guard for added comfort
– PU Vislon® centerfront and hand pocket zippers for secure storage
– Adjustable cuffs for a tailored fit
– Drawcord adjustable hem for versatility
– Drop tail for added coverage
– Packable into hand pocket for convenience on the go
– Active fit for freedom of movement
– Center Back Length: 29″
– Uses: Hiking
– Imported
Features like zippered hand pockets, a chin guard, and adjustable hood, cuffs, and drop tail hem make this jacket not only highly functional but also versatile for various outdoor activities. It’s the ideal companion for the man who wants to stay dry and comfortable, no matter the weather.
2. Men’s Grand Trek II Down Hooded Jacket
Stay Cozy and Stylish in the Cold
For those chilly winter adventures, the Men’s Grand Trek II Down Hooded Jacket is the perfect companion. Packed with Columbia’s cutting-edge technology, this jacket combines style with functionality, providing ultimate warmth without sacrificing breathability.
Specifications:
– Omni-Tech™ waterproof/breathable critically seam-sealed
– Omni-Heat™ Infinity advanced thermal reflective lining technology retains more body heat without sacrificing breathability
– Heat Seal Construction for a sleek and modern look
– RDS certified down with 650 fill power for superior insulation
– Drawcord adjustable hood for customizable protection
– Chin guard for added comfort
– Zippered hand pockets for secure storage
– Adjustable cuffs for a tailored fit
– Drawcord adjustable hem for added versatility
– Center Back Length: 28″
– Imported
The Men’s Grand Trek II Down Hooded Jacket boasts the most advanced thermal-reflective lining technology, ensuring that he stays warm and comfortable in the coldest conditions. From the drawcord adjustable hood to the heat-sealed construction, every detail is designed for both style and performance.
3. Columbia Men’s Peak Pursuit Gloves
Warmth at Your Fingertips, No Matter the Weather
The Columbia Men’s Peak Pursuit Gloves are the perfect addition to your outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection. Designed to keep hands warm in any weather, these gloves boast OutDry™ waterproof/breathable technology, ensuring that moisture stays out while allowing breathability.
Specifications:
– OutDry™ waterproof/breathable technology
– Dual Omni-Heat™/sherpa pile lining
– Omni-Heat™ thermal insulated
– Durable, DWR treated, weather-resistant goat leather
– Reinforced goat leather palm for additional durability
– 3-Point precurve™ for a natural fit
– Neoprene cuff for added protection
– Cuff-glove to be worn under the jacket cuff for additional wrist mobility
– Removable leash for convenience
– Nose wipe on thumb
– Hook and loop cuff adjustment for a secure fit
– Touch screen compatible thumb and finger tip
– Elastic at the wrist for comfort
– Insulation made from recycled polyester
– Uses: Ski / Snowsports
– Imported
– Prop 65 Warning For CA Consumers
Reviews rave about the warmth, comfort, and waterproof capabilities of these gloves, making them an essential companion for any cold-weather adventure.
Conclusion
This holiday season, give the gift of adventure with Columbia Sportswear’s innovative and high-performance outdoor gear. The Men’s OutDry Extreme Mesh Hooded Rain Shell Jacket, Men’s Grand Trek II Down Hooded Jacket, and Columbia Men’s Peak Pursuit Gloves are the perfect trio to keep your loved one comfortable and ready for whatever the great outdoors may throw their way. Wrap up the joy of exploration and make this holiday season one to remember for the outdoor enthusiast in your life!
Unleash the Water Warfare with SpyraThree™ – The Ultimate Water Gun Experience
By: Aaron Herman
You just got a whole lot cooler, thanks to the SpyraThree™ – the world’s most advanced water gun. Whether you’re planning a family water battle or a thrilling Spyra birthday party, this innovative water blaster is designed to elevate your water game to new heights. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the features and specifications of the SpyraThree™ and explore why it’s a must-have for water warriors of all ages.
The SpyraThree™ Experience:
The SpyraThree™ isn’t just a water gun; it’s a water warfare revolution. From the moment you pick it up, you’ll feel the power that sets it apart from the rest. Boasting pinpoint accuracy, the SpyraThree™ allows you to hit targets up to 10 meters away, and with the PowerShot in League mode, extend your range to an impressive 15 meters.
But it’s not just about power – the SpyraThree™ offers versatility with three play styles:
1. Open Mode: Freestyle water blasting fun with a powerful blast every time you pull the trigger.
2. Burst Mode: Release three super-fast, consecutive, ultra-powerful water blasts for an intense and exhilarating experience.
3. League Mode: Enter the official SPYRA tournament mode. Your rate of fire is restricted, but keep the trigger pulled to release a PowerShot for superior range and impact.
Reloading is a breeze – simply dip the front of the SpyraThree™ into a water source, and you’ll be back in the action in no time. No need for extended timeouts or running back to the house.
Auto Reload and Tactical Display
Stay ahead of the competition with the SpyraThree’s™ auto-reload feature, refilling and repressurizing in under 10 seconds. The tactical display keeps you in control, providing tank and battery status at all times. Your water warfare just reached a new level of strategy and convenience.
Specifications:
Shipping: Safe and secure delivery via DHL/FedEx/UPS with parcel insurance and tracking included.
Dimensions and Weight:
– Single: 680mm x 260mm x 200mm | 3.9 kg (8.7 lbs)
– Dual: 680mm x 420mm x 200mm | 6.9 kg (15.3 lbs)
Technical Details:
– Effective Range: Regular Blast (10.5 m/35 ft), PowerShot (15 m/50 ft)
– Weight: Empty (2.2 kg/4.4 lbs), Full (2.9 kg/6.4 lbs)
– Battery Life: Over 2200 shots before recharge
– Rate of Fire: 54.5-300 blasts/minute
– USB-C Charging Time: 4 hours
-The Spyra Advantage: SpyraTwo™ and SpyraThree™
The SpyraTwo™ and SpyraThree™ bring automation to water blasters with an auto-reload feature, refilling and repressurizing in under 10 seconds. The digital display keeps you informed of tank and battery status. While the SpyraTwo™ is perfect for ultimate gameplay with one mode, the SpyraThree™ offers three play styles for any occasion.
Conclusion:
Say goodbye to ordinary water guns and elevate your water warfare with the SpyraThree™. Whether you’re engaging in freestyle battles, unleashing rapid bursts, or entering tournament mode, this water blaster guarantees an unforgettable experience for adults and kids alike. Get ready to make a splash and turn every summer day into an epic water adventure with the SpyraThree™ – the water gun that takes fun to a whole new level! They are having a holiday sale now! Get it now!
Bring Third Earth Home: Super7 Launches Epic ThunderCats Cats Lair Crowdfund
By Aaron Herman
Nostalgic fans rejoice – you can now fund an immersive, monumental playset straight from the world of ThunderCats! This week, toy company Super7 launched a crowdfunding project to create the ultimate ThunderCats ULTIMATES! Cats Lair.
Standing at over three feet tall and packed with interactive features, this Cats Lair playset unfolds to reveal iconic rooms and scenes from the classic 1980s animated series. Control pods, the ThunderTank maintenance hangar, a hidden weapons room, and command center will transport fans to Third Earth.
Created in collaboration with the helpful Berbils, Super7’s design team has engineered the playset for 7” scale ULTIMATES! action figures. Hidden defense weapons, special lighting effects, and removable parts make the Cats Lair an immersive fortress ready for imaginative play.
The playset is currently only available via direct pre-order from Super7, exclusively for customers in the US and Canada. A minimum of 3,000 backers must fund the project for it to move forward. Currently, over 3,400 fans have already backed the campaign.
Priced at $650, the Cats Lair playset pre-order closes Sunday, September 17th 2023 at 11:59PM. If successful, estimated delivery is October 2024. Additional funding will unlock more expansive accessories and features for the playset.
ThunderCats debuted in 1985 as an animated series from Rankin-Bass and Japanese studio Pacific Animation Corporation. The franchise launched an accompanying line of action figures and has retained a cult following for its unique characters and world.
Now fans can bring Third Earth home through Super7’s Cats Lair playset. Let’s help this epic crowdfund succeed and unleash the ThunderCats! Head to Super7’s website to pre-order this bit of 80s nostalgia today.
The Thing: Marvel’s Reluctant Jewish Hero Embraces His Roots
By Aaron Herman
Cartoons have always held a special place in our hearts, a reminder of the carefree days of childhood. For many, Disney has been at the forefront of these cherished memories. However, in a surprising and heartwarming turn, Disney has found a unique way to connect kids with their Jewish heritage through the upcoming holiday of Rosh Hashanah. In an exciting collaboration, Team Spidey of “Marvel’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends” is teaming up with none other than Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing from the Fantastic Four, in a special Rosh Hashanah-themed episode set to premiere on Disney on September 15th.
In this special holiday episode, The Thing, a beloved character created by Jack Kirby and Stan Lee, joins forces with the kid-centric heroes Miles Morales and Peter Parker to embark on a mission to save and celebrate Rosh Hashanah. The episode unfolds as Gobby, also known as the Green Goblin, devises a nefarious plan to steal all the bees, putting at risk the cherished Rosh Hashanah tradition of celebrating the Jewish New Year with apples and honey. The Thing, alongside Team Spidey, thwarts Gobby’s sinister plan and preserves the tradition of love and celebration. But what makes this collaboration even more special is the rich history and personal journey of Ben Grimm, who is not just the Fantastic Four’s most popular member but also Marvel’s most prominent Jewish superhero. Ben’s Jewish identity was subtly hinted at for decades before it was officially confirmed in Fantastic Four #56, published in 2002, in a powerful and touching narrative about reconnecting with one’s roots.
In this issue, The Thing walks down Yancy Street, reflecting on his troubled past and his relationship with his Jewish neighbor, Hiram Sheckerberg. Ben’s life takes an unexpected turn when he saves Sheckerberg from the villain Powderkeg and recites the Sh’ma, a central declaration of the Jewish faith, when he believes Sheckerberg is dead. This moment raises questions about Ben’s reluctance to openly acknowledge his Jewish identity, leading Sheckerberg to wonder if Ben is ashamed of it. Ben’s reluctance to openly embrace his Jewish heritage stems from a deep-seated fear that people might judge all Jews based on his actions and appearance. He grapples with a self-deprecating belief that he is a “monster,” a label he wrongly applies to himself despite being a hero who has saved the world multiple times as a member of the Fantastic Four. This self-doubt highlights a common fear among many Jews – being unfairly judged or stereotyped based on the actions of one individual.
However, as the issue progresses, Ben begins to shed his self-doubt and realizes that he is not a monster. He’s a man who has defended others, stood up to bullies, and performed countless acts of kindness without expecting anything in return. His journey culminates in a touching moment where he publicly reads from the Torah, embracing his Jewish identity with pride. This act of self-acceptance is a powerful testament to the importance of celebrating one’s heritage and not letting fear or self-doubt hold you back.
The Thing’s journey from reluctance to pride in his Jewish identity is a heartwarming and inspirational story that resonates with people of all backgrounds. It reminds us that it’s essential to embrace who we are, no matter our differences or the obstacles we face. In the upcoming Rosh Hashanah-themed episode on Disney, The Thing’s character will undoubtedly serve as a symbol of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of celebrating one’s heritage.
This collaboration between Disney and Marvel not only provides a fun and exciting way for kids to connect with their Jewish roots during Rosh Hashanah but also delivers a poignant message about self-acceptance and the importance of embracing one’s identity, making it a must-watch episode for families of all backgrounds. So mark your calendars for September 15th, as The Thing and Team Spidey swing into action, saving Rosh Hashanah and inspiring us all to be proud of who we are, just as Ben Grimm has learned to be proud of his Jewish heritage.
Laughing Through Life’s Hiccups: Maya and Yehuda Devir’s Comic Genius
By Aaron Herman
Comics have a magical way of turning life’s mishaps into belly-aching hilarity. And when it comes to the dynamic duo of Israeli cartoonists, Maya and Yehuda Devir, they’ve got the comedic recipe down to a science. These two talented artists, also a married couple, have taken the world by storm with their web comic series, “One of Those Days.” With their wacky sense of humor and knack for showcasing life’s absurdity, the Devirs have amassed a fan following of over 9 million people worldwide, offering a unique, humorous lens through which we can all view life’s ups and downs.
Maya and Yehuda Devir make for an artistic pair that’s as delightful as a comedy duo. Their individual talents are impressive, but it’s their collaboration that has transformed them into global comic celebrities. Based in Israel, this couple brings a dash of humor, a pinch of authenticity, and a whole lot of relatability to their art, making it accessible to people all over the world.
At the heart of their creative madness lies their web comic series, “One of Those Days.” Released weekly on their social media platforms, these comics serve up a hilarious slice of Maya and Yehuda’s daily life. What makes their comics stand out is their utter commitment to unfiltered honesty. They don’t shy away from depicting life’s unglamorous moments; instead, they flaunt the mundane, embarrassing, and downright chaotic parts of existence.
Through their art, the Devirs show us that life isn’t always Instagram-ready, but it’s these perfectly imperfect moments that make it so darn interesting. Whether it’s the epic struggle of fixing a broken appliance, the wild adventure of parenting, or the comedy of errors that is a relationship, Maya and Yehuda capture these scenarios with a humorous twist. Their comics are a window into the universal human experience, offering comfort in the knowledge that we’re all in the same hilariously leaky boat.
In a world where social media often portrays an unrealistic facade of perfection, the Devirs’ willingness to showcase their glorious chaos is a breath of fresh air. Their comics have transformed into a virtual support group for millions of people worldwide. Through humor, they’ve created a space where individuals can chuckle at their own mishaps and find solace in the fact that everyone’s life is a sitcom in the making.
The Devirs haven’t just entertained their audience; they’ve fostered a sense of community. Their weekly comics have created a bond between people who can relate to the daily struggles they depict. The comment sections on their posts are like a comedy club’s backstage, filled with funny anecdotes, shared experiences, and a hearty dose of laughter, turning their social media pages into a digital hangout for those who appreciate life’s quirks.
Maya and Yehuda Devir, the comedic masterminds behind “One of Those Days,” have struck comedic gold by turning life’s hiccups into fits of laughter. Their unique storytelling through comics resonates with the authenticity and hilarity that’s woven into our daily lives. By embracing the chaos and sharing it with the world, the Devirs have created a global comedy club where people can connect, share a hearty laugh, and find solace in the sheer craziness of existence.
In a world where we often strive for perfection, the Devirs remind us that it’s perfectly fine to laugh at our own foibles and find humor in the messiness. Through their art, they’ve offered a side-splitting perspective on the human experience, proving that even on our craziest days, laughter is the best medicine. Maya and Yehuda Devir’s ability to connect with people through their hilariously relatable comics is a testament to the comedic power of art to bring us together in laughter and understanding.
NY Comic Con 2022
By Aaron Herman
New York Comic Con was an amazing event filled with endless entertainment and endless opportunities for comic book enthusiasts. The organizers, ReedPOP, truly outdid themselves in putting on a spectacular show.
One of the highlights of the convention for us was the opportunity to speak with some amazing organizations and individuals. We had the chance to chat with the NYC Ghostbusters, who shared their passion for all things ghostly and paranormal. We also had the chance to speak with Vader’s Vault, a company that creates incredible custom lightsabers and other Star Wars-inspired props. Finally, we had the pleasure of talking with Harley Yee Rare Comics, who shared some of their amazing rare finds with us.
But perhaps the most exciting moment of the convention for us was when we stumbled upon the first comic featuring Sabra, a character created by Bill Mantlo and Sal Buscema. Sabra, also known as Ruth Bat-Seraph, is a mutant Israeli superheroine and agent of the Mossad. She made her first appearance in Incredible Hulk #250 and had a full appearance in Incredible Hulk #256. Sabra is set to appear in the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe film, Captain America: New World Order, which is set to be released in 2024.
Overall, our experience at New York Comic Con was truly unforgettable. We can’t wait to see what ReedPOP has in store for us at future conventions.
Comic Books and the Holocaust
By Aaron Herman
How do you teach future generations about the holocaust. One of the key elements of connecting to future generations is connecting to them on their level. Comic books are a unique way to tell difficult stories through a lens that can connect to children through a unique lens. In a book called book called We Spoke Out: Comic Books and the Holocaust by legendary comic artist Neal Adams, Holocaust scholar Rafael Medoff and comics historian Craig Yoe (Yoe Books/IDW Publishing) documents that effort and gathers 18 of the landmark stories from the 1950s through the 1980s into a single collection. Unusually, the book includes reprints from both DC and Marvel, as well as a handful of other publishers, under the same cover.
“It’s an incredibly rare event when competitors DC and Marvel join forces–but then again, there has never before been a book like this!” said editor Craig Yoe, who spearheaded the project. “These top publishers saw their social responsibility and the unique opportunity to strongly and in unison speak out.” We Spoke Out also includes a Batman story from 1971 called “Night of the Reaper,” written by Denny O’Neil and drawn by Adams in his trademark realistic and dramatic style. It’s another tale of a Holocaust survivor seeking justice against the perpetrators, and it raises some difficult questions about lines that even victims should not cross.
Marvel also addressed the legacy of the Holocaust in many of its comics. “I take great pride in the role comic creators played in introducing this topic,” wrote Stan Lee in his introduction to We Spoke Out. Nazis turned up frequently as villains in Marvel comics during the 60s and 70s, but the company usually addressed the underlying issues of racism and fear through metaphor and subtext, as in the saga of the X-Men, a team of mutants irrationally despised for their difference from ordinary humans.
In one issue, Uncanny X-Men #161, the subtext became explicit when writer Chris Clarement filled in the backstory of the X-Men’s greatest foe, Magneto.
“I was trying to figure out what the most transfiguring event of our century that would tie in to the super-concept of the X-Men as persecuted outcasts,” said Claremont in an interview quoted in the book. “It had to be the Holocaust. One I found a point of departure for Magneto, all the rest fell into place, because it allowed me to turn him into a tragic figure who wants to save his people.”
We Spoke Out is an important, and unfortunately timely, reminder of how a popular artform dealt straightforwardly with troubling recent history: not by equivocating or shrinking from controversy, but by taking sides.
Summer Gift Guide: GoPro
By Aaron Herman
GoPro leads the way for innovative tech for creators. The GoPro Hero Black 10 gives creators the ability to capture stories through unique vantage points and enahnces the way you can connect to audiences. The HERO10 Black Creator Edition is an all-in-one content capturing powerhouse that makes vlogging, filmmaking and live streaming easier than ever. This complete system features pro-quality 5.3K video, Emmy® award-winning HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization, enhanced audio, powerful LED lighting and 4 hours of 4K recording per charge. The game-changing HERO10 Black with unbelievable image quality. A super-versatile hand grip with all-day charge and one-hand control. Tons of mounting options. Lights. Sound. And unlimited cloud backup. It’s everything you need to create your masterpiece. Learn more at https://gopro.com/en/us/
Holiday Gift Guide: Gozney
The restaurant-grade portable pizza oven for your backyard.
Cook restaurant quality pizza at home with Roccbox, designed for ease of use and unrivalled performance.
Portable – Take Roccbox anywhere with it’s retractable legs, detachable burner and built-in thermometer.
Reaches 950°F – Enjoy unrivalled cooking results created by a thick stone floor, dense insulation and a unique rolling flame.
Gas or wood fuelled – Roccbox comes with a gas burner as standard, and the option to buy a detachable wood burner as an additional accessory.
Safe touch – Host pizza parties with the family friendly pizza oven, thanks to Roccbox’s safe-touch silicone jacket.
Restaurant-grade – Engineered to replicate the performance of Gozney’s professional pizza ovens, used by leading chefs and restaurants all over the world.