Sure, you can listen to the DIMAcasts on your iPod or in your car, but it's often worthwhile to sit at a computer while you're experiencing the 'cast. Particularly when it's one of Bill McCurry's DIMAcasts.

Here's why

Before you run the audio, you can download a PDF transcript to follow along with your eyes.

In addition to the words, you'll often see photos (worth 1,000 words or more) and in the case of this week's edition, you'll get a sample of a customer survey form that will have you smacking your forehead like the folks in the V-8 commercials.

So far, only the McCurry DIMAcasts have transcripts available.

In Bill's interview with Ted Nichols of New Hope Photo, the only graphic is a head shot of Ted's smiling face as he describes 30 years of going to the PMA conventions. And a big apology to Ted, we left him out of last week's announcement of the DIMAcast.

Haunani Kekuna of Moto Photo in Wayne, PA talks about how and why she did a major remodel of her store - with only 2 1/2 years left on the lease! Her accountant probably thought she was crazy but it worked out well . . .

John Tworsky & Tom Gramegna from Bergen County Camera in Westwood, New Jersey, share a customer survey project that has helped their store become hugely successful. And the survey itself is on the PDF transcript.

Tom Brady - Camera Craft - Rockford, Illinois www.cameracraftinc.com

Hi Bill!

Just a quick note. I wanted to let you know, how excited I was to learn of the Photography Adventure to Death Valley National Park, by Paul's Photo, immediately following the PMA Convention.

I had the opportunity to attend one of Paul's Photo excursions in Portland, Oregon last summer and it was a great trip! (It was held in conjunction with the PRO convention.)

Paul's scouted out the area ahead of time and made arrangements for every consideration, including lodging, transportation, T-shirts, shooting locations, dinner and a photo contest.

Once registered for one of their Adventures, Paul's keeps you informed with regular e-mails about every aspect of preparation, from equipment and clothing recommendations to weather conditions. Of course, everyone who attends one of Paul's Photo Adventures WINS!

We learned not only what it takes to prepare a similar program for our customers, we reignited our passion for shooting photography and renewed our spirits in the experience.

If you've ever tried to improve the search engine rankings of your web site, you know that every valid incoming link improves your odds of being found. Here's an easy one:

The blog "1001 noisy cameras" has launched a "Support your local camera store" initiative. This is not to be confused with the popular James Garner movies "Support your local Sheriff" and "Support Your Local Gunfighter".

The blogger will give a free listing and link to any camera store.

Not surprisingly, the first two dealers who jumped on the chance were Jerry Harmen of Madison Photo and Joel Paymer of Camera Land, NY.

Go to this site and learn all the details. It couldn't hurt!

With all due modesty, we think so. Check out these sessions:

The Great Bill McCurry will host 3 formal sessions:

• Wednesday, Jan 30th, 1:00 pm The Long Tail of Marketing - Marketing Products You Don't Make Session D53
• Wednesday, Jan 30th, 2:30 pm DIMA Marketing Idea Exchange Session D63
• Saturday, 7:00 am - Session 700 - Selling More for Less