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Gander Mountain in Tyler

January 8th, 2010

Over the last few years, the sporting goods mega store / museum has become the order of the day. Now, I realize I often tend to favor local business over larger chains. But in this case, I’m taking a different tack. These new stores often serve as a show case for the latest and greatest new products in the sporting goods world, sort of a Sharper Image only useful and fun.

Well Tyler now has one of its own in Gander Mountain. A visit here has something for everyone. Even my little boy is entranced by the stuffed game of all kinds which hangs on the walls. To him, it’s almost like visiting a zoo or a museum.

Admittedly the Tyler Gander Mountain, (located on South Broadway) is not the most well stocked sporting goods store in town. In comparison to someplace like Academy Sports, G.M.s market is smaller since it caters more to the outdoorsman than the athlete. It is one of the few places (other than book stores) however, where I actually enjoy browsing for browsing’s sake.

The fishing and tackle section is a vortex I find it easy to get sucked into. A visit to G.M. prior to a fishing trip increases the cost of my trip exponentially. The camping section is full of temptation as well but fortunately (or unfortunately) my budget doesn’t allow for too many impulse buys of items contained there.

It prices at Gander Mountain are not particularly low. Much of what they stock is larger, high dollar items. For those of us in the market for smaller things like fishing lures or bait the prices are slightly higher than elsewhere since the customer is essentially paying for the selection. It’s generally worth it though since a trip here is in and of itself, an experience. For more information see their website at www.gandermountain.com, or better yet, stop in for a visit. They’re located at 151 Market Square Blvd. just off South 69, in Tyler TX.

Confession of a fast food hypocrite

November 7th, 2009

                The following article is something of a confession, or a coming out column for me. For years I’ve been vocal about the fact that I hate the fast food restaurant chain “Jack in the Box” due largely to the store’s advertising campaign. I have openly declared my unwillingness to eat at any of the store’s Tyler locations regardless of the quality of the food they serve because I so detest their commercials… that is until recently.

            When my workplace moved to a new building, I found that “Jack in the Box” was the closest available eatery. One day, while on my lunch break, and without the time to visit one of my regular favs. I reluctantly swallowed my dislike for the franchise and made that infamous right turn into the small parking lot. I rationalized the decision by telling myself it would be a one time thing. Besides, I didn’t have to tell anyone, right? Except that the food was great! I had a problem, or rather I still do. As fast food goes I like “The Box” (not as much as Whataburger by the way), but it’s close to my work, the prices are reasonable and they serve breakfast all day, on the other hand, those commercials are just more than I can take, a sentiment shared by my whole family by the way.  

            So why make this confession now? Because I can live the lie no longer! I like Jack in the Box’s food! There I said it. The menu is unique, and the quality good. I still make no excuses for the company’s ads however. In fact, they are the ones who should be ashamed, not me or those like me. We are just the victims, the users if you will. I call on the corporation to do the right thing and fire the current ad agency and find another. Please, make it easier for those of us who enjoy the product, but whose consciences object to the mindless temptation they use to appeal to the masses. A step like this can only bring in those stronger than I who would ordinarily never set foot in a Jack in the Box restaurant.

            So please don’t judge me! Pity me, and remember you may be one sausage egg and cheese biscuit away from becoming a “Box” fan as well. Tyler Locations can be found on Broadway next to Burgfield Park, and on the west loop next to CIci’s.