Post by Devon12 from Discovery.com Forum

Back in October a thread was started on Deadliest Catch the Series Message Boards.  It appears that even then, many people could see the train coming down the track toward the bridge with the broken trestles. To read: 
10/14/10  Captainphilharris.com Defunct? YOU be the Judge

• NOTE:  When this thread was started the members of the "Captain Phil Nation" who were still following Russ Herriott as he faltered at the helm of Captainphilharris.com had a lot to say.  Barbs and jabs were posted in attempt to discredit the topic.  Even so, many good questions were raised, and interesting points were  made.  The thread dissolved into ridiculousness spawned by the steadfast Russ followers.  It was eventually locked by forum Moderators.  In spite of all the distractions and muck the truth shown brightly through.  Obviously Captainphilharris.com was in grave trouble.   

Inability to run ahead and reinforce the structure forced "the Foreseers"  to stand helplessly by for a couple more months.  They watched the train hit the inevitable weak spot that had been reported many times but ignored by the powers that be. 

The now tarnished, outdated train that was Captainphilharris.com chugged sluggishly along the weakened grid and out over the gaping chasm of despair.  It then fell unceremoniously into the vast valley of hopelessness below.  After the dust settled most noted with misty eyes that there was not enough left to resurrect.

• NOTE:  Russ Herriott, President & CEO Captain's Reserve Coffee chose not to go down with the wreck.  The chugging pre-disastrous calamity had been put on autopilot weeks before.  Russ hid safely at a remote location to view the carnage in seclusion.  He made sure he would be unavailable for comment.  That, at this writing, is still his status.

12/24/10  Once again the fate of Captainphilharris.com hit the Discovery.com Boards. Post by Devon12 from Discovery.com Forum Messageboards   This time there is a different tone.  Missing are the barbs and attempts from hangers on to try and discredit the posts. 

Whether or not they still believe in Mr. Herriott's leadership abilities is not known.  Perhaps the "Believers" are still in awe of the train wreck they refused to acknowledge.  The devastation is obvious and very hard to refute.  You used to see it; now ya don't. 

At present we wait, and we wonder just what Mr. Herriott will say when and if he is ever interviewed on the subject.   Here's hoping he will tell the truth.

If there is some type of site or page brought online to replace the now defunct Captainphilharris.com, will it be treated with respect and maintained?  That, surely, isn't too much to ask for.

Captainphilharris.com Defunct? You Be The Judge...

On or around December 12, 2010 it was noted that http://captainphilharris.com/  was no longer online.  A quick click of the link is all it took to find that the site was being "updated".   Searching for Captain's Reserve Coffee furnishes either an "Under Construction" notice or one that says "This Site has Been Disabled" " Please contact your service provider for more information." 

Back in August 2010 the site was offline for just about the amount of time it takes to change servers.  An educated guess was that the Webmaster, Robert, Aka "Gone to Work" did just that and went to work elsewhere. He most likely turned Captainphilharris.com back over to Russ Herriott due to non-payment issues and went on his merry way.   Click to read "Webmaster Woes" originally posted August 9, 2010

Three months ago was the last update for Captainphilharris.com.  Almost two weeks ago the site disappeared from the internet with an unceremonious "poof".  There is no one to ask what happened - the man in charge, Russ Herriott hasn't been heard from in months. 

In the quest to find out what may have happened, a trip to GoDaddy.com reveals: 
Domain Name: CAPTAINPHILHARRIS.COM
Registrar: GODADDY.COM, INC.
Whois Server: whois.godaddy.com
Referral URL: http://registrar.godaddy.com
Name Server: NS1.CAPTAINPHILHARRIS.COM
Name Server: NS2.CAPTAINPHILHARRIS.COM
Status: clientDeleteProhibited
Status: clientRenewProhibited
Status: clientTransferProhibited
Status: clientUpdateProhibited
Updated Date: 10-dec-2010
Creation Date: 19-feb-2008
Expiration Date: 19-feb-2012
>>> Last update of whois database: Fri, 24 Dec 2010 08:08:14 UTC <<<

An explanation could be that Captainphilharris.com is off-line until payment is made to the host, the Webmaster, or both. Under Russ Herriott's lackluster leadership, the site died a painfully embarrassing, totally unnecessary death.  Whatever the reason, at present it is gone, and the absence of explanation is unacceptable.

The "Loyal Fans" of what Russ Herriott called "the Captain Phil Nation" deserve a truthful explanation.  Obviously things did not work out with the Captainphilharris.com website or Captain's Reserve Coffee with Russ Herriott, President & CEO Captain's Reserve Coffee, LLC SEI-Sports & Entertainment International at the helm.  Acting like the problem is not there will not make it go away. 


One would hope a reorganization could take place and all would be well.  If a person could believe that, they are living in a dream world.  Loyal fans have been used as pawns,  lied to (last couple sentences in first paragraph) , and abandoned without explanation.   With credibility nil, disenchantment high, and an uncaring Russ Herriott M.I.A, nothing could turn things around at this point.

Light's out, door's locked, and "Gone to Work"  HAS gone to work at a relaxing, better paying job running a snow cone stand on the beach in Daytona.  :)  Kudos Robert!

Imaracer83

When Ken Rogers signed the Agent Representation Agreement with Russ Herriott he was a very happy guy!  He felt he could be on his way to a promising career.

Excerpt from:  Ken Rogers' Bull Run Profile  "I'm working with Russ Herriott as my Marketing Manager, who also represents Capt. Phil Harris of the tv show "the deadliest catch". People, try his coffee and order some at http://www.captainsreserve.com/. Great guys and great coffee too!"

Also see:  Funds Transferred, Less Contact: Look Out!

Marketing 101 (revised)

Marketing 101 (revised) -

1.  Know what you're doing before disrupting a process that works smoothly (note last paragraph), or even close to smoothly.

2.  If you don't know what you're doing (read paragraph 4), admit it and get help from someone who has a clue.

3.  Provide valid contact information.  Sporadic availability and lack of response to people and vendors you are asking to trust and work with you is a perfect recipe for failure.

4.  Be truthful, trustworthy, tactful, sincere, (read paragraph 5) helpful, and a pleasure to work with and be around.  Hard sell, inflexibility, pushiness, arrogance, and blatant manipulation  is a fast ticket to downhill spiral.

5.  Have a resume' you are proud to share with prospective clients.  Provide them with a truthful list of achievements under your leadership.  Outline how it has helped previous clients.

6.  On your letterhead provide the address of your office (read post #13), email, and fax number.  Provide a pleasant atmosphere in your personal domain for meeting with clients. Show stability; dress and act like a person who represents someone important.  First impression means a great deal.

7.  When you say you are going to do something, do it (read last sentence in first paragraph).  If, for some reason things don't work out due to your short comings, admit it.  Everything can't be someone else's fault.

8.  Clear up any previous business issues and unpaid debts.  Use it as a stepping stone to being the type of person clients may be able to trust in the future.

9.  We all have room for improvement.  One has to recognize the shortcomings and implement change or results will be the same.

10.  If all else fails, switch careers.  Get a regular job with a regular salary.  It creates a win/win situation.  You actually do the work and you get paid money for a job completed. 

******  Please note post #5.  TO BE CONTINUED...

WTF Happened?

"You can make things happen, you can watch things happen, or you can wonder what the fuck happened, and I don't wanta be on number 3!" - Captain Phil Harris

When Russ Herriott took control, Marsha Cruz stopped working for Captain's Reserve due to lack of payment.  At that time, Captain's Reserve Coffee was in several Ray's Markets in Oregon and Northern California as well as most QFC Stores in the Pacific Northwest.  Online sales were ever increasing and things were looking up.

In the absence of Ms Cruz, Ray's Markets opted to discontinue the relationship with Captain's Reserve.  Slowly but surely regular QFC customers noticed increasing empty space where once proudly stood Captain's Reserve Coffee.  Below is a photo narrative from two QFC stores that tells the very sad story.


QFC Seattle - Stocked shelves with coffee at regular price.  September 2009

QFC Seattle - Taken October 11, 2010 - Shelves half full, closeout prices

QFC Tacoma, WA - Shelves half full, close out prices August 21, 2010

QFC Tacoma - October 10, 2010 - Shelves full one last time

Note:  This happened about the same time the shelves at the Rutledge Corn Maze were finally stocked with Captain's Reserve Coffee that was promised for it's Grand Opening On September 11, 2010.  Click to read "In Response - Then and Now - Big Difference"



QFC Tacoma, WA - Marked down for close out November 14, 2010



QFC Tacoma - Last two bags - November 14, 2010

On November 20, 2010 at approximately 2PM, three phone calls were made to QFC stores in the Seattle Area.

• QFC Mountlake Terrace - When asked if the store carried Captain's Reserve Coffee the clerk said they had problems with ordering it and that the coffee was being discontinued.
• QFC on Broadwway in Everett - Clerk said it was on closeout for $5.54 and all they had left was a little Midnight Sunrise and the Italian Roast
• QFC Mukilteo at Harbor Point -  A gentleman named Brian said they had no Captain's Reserve Coffee at all.

During the downward spiral of Captain's Reserve Coffee, nothing at all was heard from Russ Herriott.  There were no updates on Captainphilharris.com since the last one on August 1.  Mr. Herriott had been so proud to grab the reins of the shiny new website and the newly vacated position at the helm of Captain's Reserve Coffee! 

He seemingly did nothing.  There was little or no response to inquiries on the website about when online coffee orders would be filled, if ever.  Fans and customers were just left out in the cold.  If forum members asked too many questions their posts were deleted.  Links for the online store and other site information no longer worked.

Apologies to customers for previous poor treatment (read last paragraph)  were no longer believed and disenchanted forum members left the website in droves.  Those who remained, rattled around the deserted website looking for signs of life and someone to connect with.  Forum threads were started by the handful of hangers on, but no one was there to type responses.  Captanphilharris.com became a dry, neglected,  parched ghost town.

Just a couple days ago Captainphilharris.com went offline.  Click to view - Being updated please check back.  Hopefully it is being updated.   Captain's Reserve Coffee company is seemingly no longer in business.  When Captainphilharris.com came on line in June they advertised a cross country roll out for January 2011.  That seems highly unlikely.  The only place coffee rolled was off the shelves.

Links to buy the last of Captain Phil's Original clothing were disabled months ago and now there is no dedicated site to link Customers to Eskimo Joe's where they can be purchased.  The man who eagerly took control is all but M.I.A.

It's been 10 short months since Captain Phil passed away.  Nothing is left of the  business he proudly started but a shell.  If Mr. Herriott could once again gather together the now widely dispersed members of the "Captain Phil Nation", it would be interesting to hear his attempt to explain What the fuck happened...

Russ Herriott Business Ownership - Updated List

Info from previous thread - October 26, 2010

The Motorsports Summit
Russ Herriott - President, Secretary, Treasurer - Henderson NV
License Permanently Revoked 8/1/2007

Sports & Entertainment International
Russ Herriott - President, Secretary, Treasurer - Nevada
License Revoked 2/1/2008

Sei - Sports & Entertainment International
Russ Herriott - Director, President, Secretary, Treasurer - Nevada
License Revoked 4/1/2009  (April Fools Day)

NOW ACTIVE in Washington State as of September 13, 2010
Click Link to View:  SEI-SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT INTERNATIONAL, LLC

Wanted - Information on Russ Herriott

REWARD: An undisclosed source has offered a reward of up to $200 for providing the physical location of Mr. Herriott.  Cash to be paid upon completed service of paperwork.

Possible Aliases: RUSSELL W HERRIOTT, RUSS W HERROTT, RUSSELL HERRIOTT, RUSSELL WILLIAM HERRIOTT, RUSSEL HARRIOT, RUSS HERRIOTT, RUSS W HERRIOTT

Age: 45

Areas most frequented are: Las Vegas NV, Temecula CA, Lake Stevens WA.

Russ Herriott is in default of binding agreements to provide service to clients in a timely manner.  Large sums of money were accepted and not refunded as promised upon his default of contracts.

 If anyone can supply his physical location please send email correspondence to find_russs@yahoo.com. All responses will be kept in the strictest of confidence.

Two Emails Phil Harris Never Got

In mid December, 2009 Captain Phil and Ken Rogers spoke several times on the phone concerning  Info Phil had just recieved - Bullshitter and a Con

The following email was sent to Ken Rogers by Russ Herriott:

 From: Russ Herriott <xxxxxxxxxxxxxt@msn.com>
Subject:
To: "Ken Rogers" <ixxxxxxxxx@yahoo.com>
Date: Thursday, December 24, 2009, 11:56 AM

Ken,

Ok, this is what I want you to do. Below is an ad I wrote for you to place on ACRA.com in the classified section.

Driver with sponsor looking for a team to work together for the 2010 season. Sponsor commitment is in place. Sponsor is new to sport and needs an ontrack presence to grow the brand. The sponsors markets a brand of coffee that is tied together with a top rated reality show. We are looking for a team that is willing to work together to develop a successful marketing strategy that has long term objectives. Please contact Ken Rogers at #....

... the deal between you and I, I either get you in a car and we go racing or I have to get you the $20,000. Right now the best solution is to get you in a car. Unless you don't want to move forward. So think about it and lets talk next week.

Have a wonderful Christmas Eve and Day.

Russ Herriott
President & CEO
Captain's Reserve, LLC
On The Edge Beverage Corp, LLC
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International, Inc
Management to the Captains and Crew of Deadliest Catch
Biz: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

(Notice Russ is still using the "Management to the Captains and Crew of Deadliest Catch" title in his email signature.)

Below are two emails sent from Ken Rogers to Captain Phil via Facebook.  Please note the date.  Phil was fishing Opies at the time and never got the information.  Tragically,  a month later, Phil had a stroke and never recovered.

Call ME!

Ken Rogers January 16, 2010 at 5:00pm

Hey Phil...Been some ideas kicked around..I know it's opie season and wish you all the success. I feel like I can find something better fpr you than Russ Herriott. I think he's a scammer and an opportunist. He couldn't get my ass in a car seat much less a race car seat! It's been a year and a half and if he was a professional as he says...something would have happened by now. You wanna keep wasting your time with him, it's your choice. I need him to get me Daytona or return my money, length of time he has had our money should have produced more in my eyes. I'm going to continue for free to help you when I get there and I know I will because I'm not good at alot of things but I can damn sure drive the wheels off a race car. Keep in touch Phil and best of luck catching opies!  Ken


IMPORTANT....About Russ Herriott

Ken Rogers January 18, 2010 at 3:24pm

Phil, I know you are extremely busy but I have a link I need you to see about Russ's Company SEI. I don't think you are going to be impressed. Please....if you want your coffee to take off. I'm sick to my stomach by what I've just read on this website and it IS my belief that Russ Herriott is nothing more than a two bit con artist. I'm talking to a guy that may be able to change things and make your coffee take off. PLEASE call me at your earliest convenience Phil. I'm just trying to look out for you as well my friend! I believe he really is trying to fuck my 75 year old mother out of her money and after you look at this link, I think you may be willing to kick his ass to the curb as well. But NOT before I come to Washington state to whoop his Canadian ass.....I'm so pissed I'm beside myself and if he doesn't return her money, I'll more than likely be shunned for believeing his ass! Again in case you lost my number Phil, xxx-xxx-xxxx.....Ken Rogers. Hope the fishing was good!

Marketing 101

One of the underlying concepts of marketing is trying to satisfy a customer's needs, wants, and demands.  To read more >> MARKETING 101

WARNING!!! Captain's Gourmet Coffee is a Fake!!! REMOVED FROM CPH.COM!

Here is another example of how people were manipulated by Russ Herriott with the June 25, 2010 "Warning!!!  Captain's Gourmet Coffee is a Fake!!! message".  Heated posts ensued due to belief in the request to spread the word.

From Cornelia Marie / Phil Harris Coffee Anyone?  Scroll down to July 12, 2010

Kristen Yonker says:

July 12, 2010 at 4:40 pm

Just be sure you do not buy coffee from Marsha Cruz. She is not at all affiliated with Captain Phil Harris and his coffee. So if you want the coffee, go to Captain Phil’s wesbsite, as Marsha Cruz is not selling his coffee. BEWARE.

Marsha Cruz says:

July 13, 2010 at 5:19 pm

To Kristen Yonker, I don’t know who you are, and you certainly do not know me. WHO the hell do you think you are shooting your mouth off about Phil, the coffee, or me? You were not involved with Phil and I, so mind your own business. Russ Herriott is currently trying to sell coffee off of Phil’s website and he doesn’t even have any coffee. So feel free to join the line of suckers he is taking money from with no product!
If you ever make a slanderous comment about me again, I’ll sue you for defamation of character. 

Chris says:

July 24, 2010 at 11:57 am

There is nothing illegal about stating a fact.
January 14, 2009 7:44 pm
Hello Everyone,

Just would like to clarify the coffee information.
Deadliest Brew is not affiliated with Phil Harriss of the CM.
Yes we do have a coffee company, Captains Brew. http://www.captainsbrew.com
If you have any questions you may e-mail them to dbcrew1@yahoo.com.
Thanks, Marsha
Captains Coffee

You can’t sue some one for slander when they are just repeating what you have already said. And by the way, Slander is spoken deframation of character. The word you’re looking for is Libel, written deframation of character. As long as people state their comments as and opinion, they are protected under the First Ammendment of the United States Constitution.

Bess says:

November 2, 2010 at 4:57 pm

To Kristen and Chris…Look at the date of Marsha’s post, Jan. 14, 2009. At that time she and Captain Phil were running the coffee company. “Deadliest Brew” was an old company he had worked with, but changed to Captain’s Reserve Coffee, the one he and Marsha ran. What she posted was true. After his death in Feb of 2010 she continued to run the coffee business until it was turned over to Russ Herriott to run. To my knowledge, since he has become “President and CEO” of Captain Phil’s coffee not a single bag has been sold, and all of the stores that carried it are no longer carrying it. Marsha has since opened her own coffee business and is selling her brand coffee. The coffee she sells is HER coffee brand, has nothing to do with Captains Reserve or Russ Herriott.

Marsha Cruz says:

November 2, 2010 at 7:10 pm

Thank you Bess for clarifying this. To be specific, I left the company on May 29th 2010, for lack of payment.
I started my own coffee company, Bering Sea Brew. http://www.captainsgourmet.com

I have no affiliation with Russ Herriott or the Harris boys.
I worked with Phil for over 2 years, managing his coffee company and building the customer base. Doing all of the marketing and promotions, as well as the sales. We had a thriving business when he died, but, that business has sadly gone away.

If anyone would like to read the original posts that led up to this one, please click: Warning!!! Captain's Gourmet Coffee is a Fake!!! or
Disciples of Untruth Spread the Word

A recent visit to Captainphilharris.com provided the startling discovery that the WARNING!!! Captain's Gourmet Coffee is a Fake!!! has finally been deleted.  The offensive post inspired other online bickering  as shown in the above post.  Thank you for its removal.

ONCE AGAIN it is requested that an apology be written to Ms. Cruz and posted on a prominent page of Captainphilharris.com.  It is requested that it stay there for 4 1/2 months just as the WARNING post did.  Even though website attendance has extremely declined, those remaining members of the "Captain Phil Nation" should be allowed to know they were duped and the post was strung together with lies.

Greenhorn Challenge; New Discovery Show?

Continued from Last entry "Vision statement" Marvel Powerpoint Presentation"

Below is a letter from Russ Herriott to Ken Rogers. Mr. Herriott requests the $20,000 for his services.  The pain of paying $20,000 is then lessened by telling Ken to make himself camera friendly 'cause good things are coming his way.  The thing is, most of the letter is speculation of what could happen but Russ makes it sound so promising it's easy to forget that nothing is yet solidified.
Click to compare last two lines of post #13 >> From Racing West Message Board 2004 to 2008 BEWARE!

From: Russ Herriott <xxxxxxxxxxxxxx@msn.com>
Subject: Update
To: "Ken Rogers" <xxxxxxxxxx@yahoo.com>
Date: Monday, November 3, 2008, 5:21 PM

Ken,

First off, deposit info:

Deposit the $20,000 in a Cashier Check, not a personal check but Cashier Check in:

Bank of America
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Name:  xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Second, good news, we just got word that the Greenhorn Challenge might be filmed as a new show for consideration to air on Discovery. The producer I am working with can get it done next summer and the show would air 2010 before the new Deadliest Catch season. The race program would be incorporated into the show as the Greenhorn Challenge would be the car sponsor. So you better cut your hair and brush your teeth and get camera friendly. As you will be filmed quite a bit. I will have to present the program to Wired Energy for approval and incremental funding. Discovery executives called me today and after 3 months of talks they are now open to consider Wired as a show sponsor. Things are moving forward at a fast and furious rate.

Call me when you make the deposit so I can call xxx, the manager of my branch in Seattle. I anticipate the bank placing a hold on the deposit. After I know the deposit was made xxx can release the hold for me.

Email me back so I know you did receive this email.

All the best,

Russ Herriott
President & CEO
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International
Biz: xxxxxxxxxxxx

UPDATE on "Fools for Falling for the Scam" published on 10.29.2010

View original post >>  Fools for Falling for the Scam" posted 10.29.2010

Update on post per JON, the gentleman who was scammed out of $30,000.

"I would ask that you edit that post to change "XXX" to "J-O-N"  Hopefully if Mr. Herriott reads it, it will make it a little more personal.  Additionally you can add my comment: "Hey Russ, I hope you choke!  And that your last fading thought is 'Jon wished this on me!'"

Update completed as requested.  Thanks Jon, message delivered!

Marvel Power Point Presentation - Seemingly "Right On" but Very Misleading

Below is a power point presentation that was emailed to Ken Rogers, the gentleman who signed this Agent Representation Agreement with Russ Herriott.  Reading it is what helped build Ken Roger's trust when Ken was starting to have second thoughts about Russ's dedication to honor their agreement.

  

Here it says Russ Herriott WISHES to enter into an agreement with Marvel.  It does not say they are actively working on something.  Click to compare >> From Racing West Message Board The last two sentences of #13.  Mr. Herriott throws around a lot of big names.  Compare here >> Big Names...  "Next week I plan on talking with John Boy and Billy and getting the east coast aligned. I have a person to cover the west coast so I now focus attention to the east coast. I am also working with Bad Boy Power Drinks. I am trying to get them aligned to a promotion with Phil and some other captains. Wired Energy is still online and I will be meeting them today but doubtful they will pull the trigger. Bad Boy is putting a deal together with Roush and Paul Menards all based on Menards carrying the product."

Everything says "I am working with," "I plan to talk to", "I am trying to get them aligned," etc.  The casual reader would naturally believe these things are in the works.  Quite possibly they were not. 

 




In the last two lines of this page Russ Herriott presents himself as "EXCLUSIVE MANAGEMENT TO THE CAPTAINS AND CREW OF THE DISCOVERY CHANNEL'S HIT SHOW DEADLIEST CATCH".  He is not, nor was he ever anything other than manager and/or representative for the Harris Family.



Mr. Herriott also mis-represents himself as being management for The Captains and Crew here >>  Compare with previous post "Building Business and driving Sales"




The above Vision Statement was written for this presentation to Marvel Comics about the possibility of having a race team.  If one thinks about it for a minute it applies well to what happened to Ken Rogers. 
Information on this is TO BE CONTINUED...  See  Greenhorn Challenge New Discovery Show

 



How to Report EBay Rules and Policy Violations (Bogus Items)

Most people know what authorized items from their favorite boat or show look like.  They are selling on their respective websites and elsewhere online and offered for sale by reputable means.  If these things are valid they would more than likely also be found for sale somewhere other than Ebay.  Most items would look similar to what is already selling by that person.  They would more than likely not be shipping from Indonesia or elsewhere outside of the United States.

Hand signed photos and things of that nature are probably the real deal.  The onslaught of bogus Captain Phil Tribute Items, however, is overwhelming.  On any given day one can find numerous articles being offered unchecked on EBay as though they are legit.

Examples:  Authorized Captain Phil Harris Merchandise
                  Authorized Discovery Deadliest Catch Items
                  Authorized Edgar and Matt's Northwestern LIMITED T-shirts

                  Unauthorized Signed Mug - Captain Phil Harris
                  Unauthorized Captain Phil Harris Tribute T Shirt

By all means, purchase whatever articles you wish.  Understand that the proceeds do not go to benefit your favorite celebrity or boat if they are not official items presented for sale directly from them.

Want to help stop this sham?  If you go to EBay.com and view items you feel may be bogus, click here:  How can I report a listing that appears to be violating EBay rules and policies?  with a couple clicks of the mouse the item is reported. If the item is valid that's fine but at least someone checked on it to find out.

If we all take a couple minutes to look out for things such as this we can help stop uunauthorized sources from making money by using names and photos of people without their consent.

Bootleg EBay Merchandising of Phil Harris Products

This 9/7/2010 post found on the Discovery Message Board  Captain Phil Harris Memorial Shirt raises a very genuine and important question. Why can virtually anyone sell bogus Captain Phil Harris items on EBay and get away with it?

Today on EBay these and other items were found all on the same page:

Click to view:  Unauthorized Black T Shirt from EBay

 The following narrative complete with misspellings accompanies this Unauthorized Blue T Shirt from EBay
"There are many unsung heroes that may sometimes go unoticed. However, through the Deadliest Catch one hero received his moment of glory. Captain Phil Harris was more than a fishing boat captain he was a pilar of support for many people to do what they love and love what they do or die trying. Sadly, his life was cut short and we lost him way to soon! Keep his memory alive and show your support and respect for Captain Phil Harris of the Cornelia Marie."

This new Unauthorized RIP Shirt says "new without tags", as many authorized products do.  They're printed up and then just sold on EBay.

• 100% Cotton Tshirt
• 50/50 Available upon request 

**This Is A Men's T-Shirt - True Sizing**
**I apologize for the color mispellling - it is ROYAL BLUE** :-)


Months ago in  "Warning!!! Captain's Gourmet is a Fake!!!" Russ Herriott accuses Marsha Cruz of selling merchandise that is not authorized by he, Jake, or Josh.  It was posted along with a list of other loud, accusing misinformation.
Herriott says - “Neither the Estate of Capt. Phil Harris nor sons Josh and Jake have authorized the sale of coffee or merchandise by anyone other than Captain’s Reserve, the company formed by Capt. Phil Harris himself.”

How is it that unauthorized people are able to make bogus memorial shirts and other objects to sell for their own profit?  Why hasn't there been a forum post asking members of the "Captain Phil Nation" to assist in pointing out and stopping these culprits?

Why have the new, AUTHORIZED, "Memorial Shirts" with art work by Mike Lavallee still not been offered anywhere online for sale?

"On the Edge Greenhorn Challenge"

Meet Cable TV’s Deadliest Captains at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino Aug. 29, 2009

Straight from the icy waters of the Bering Sea, Captain Phil Harris (pictured) and his sons from the Cornelia Marie, along with Captain Johnathan Hillstrand from the Time Bandit, will make two appearances at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino Showroom Saturday, August 29 at 1 p.m. and at 4 p.m.

Captain Phil and his sons Josh and Jake will be doing more than meeting fans – they are on a nationwide search for a new “Greenhorn” that will join the Cornelia Marie crew in October for the upcoming King Crab season this fall...  Click to read more

also: 

See More

Meet and Greet Captain Phil, Jake, Josh, & Captain Johnathan!

Interested in being the new Corneliamarie Greenhorn in October? This might be your chance!

Saturday, August 29, 2009 at 1:00pm

Gold Coast Hotel & Casino

(please direct specific "On The Edge Greenhorn Challenge" questions to russherriott@xxxxxxxx)

There was a lot of build up online prior to this event.  Russ Herriott was in charge.  They never hired a new Greenhorn.  No statement that perhaps nobody qualified; just NOTHING after it was over.

Remember "On the Edge Enegry Drink?"  It was tied in with the Greenhorn Challenge."  What happened there?   TO BE CONTINUED...

Fools for Falling for the SCAM...

Email from the person who put up $30,000 without result or refund:

 4/8/2010
Oh my gosh!  Ms. XXXX, I had tossed your e-mail without reading.  My wife found it.
Please!  By all means!  If there is any chance that I can even just give Russ a dose of grief - much less see any money - count me in!!!  We were fools for falling for the scam, but any payback will be savored.  My attorney tried to reach him by mail last year and was unable to find a good address.  If any legal action is anticipated, I have a long running e-mail conversation in which Herriott admits to owing me the money. 
I can be reached any time by e-mail (I won't trash it!) or my cell: XXXXXXXXXX.  I'd love to be involved!
XXX XXXX

VIEW UPDATE POSTED 11.9.2010 -  Click >>  Fools for Falling for the Scam

Bullshitter and a Con

Continuation part 2 of previously started thread -  Previous post -Funds Transferred, Less Contact; Look Out!

December 4 2009 at 8:50pm

Hey Phil - How tight are you with Russ Herriott? He's screwing my 75 year old mother out of 20K! And according to him, your business dealings with him are the reason!. Phil, please respond, I just dont wanna bring you into his mess since the 20K was sent to your account for him! I'm a huge fan of the show and he told me this big ass story of how you wanna own a team and your coffee was gonna be the primary sponsor on my car! I'm about to drag down anybody I can to get my moms money back and you are the last one I want to involve. I think he's a bullshitter and a con artist! If you wanna talk about this call me xxx-xxx-xxxx. This is Ken Rogers

TO BE CONTINUED...  click to read - Two Emails Phil Harris Never Got

Building Business and Driving Sales with the Captains and Crew of Deadliest Catch

Click to view Nov. 2009 video:  Building Business and Driving Sales with the Captains and Crew of Deadliest Catch

Mr. Herriott does well with very interesting and informative video. It furnishes a lot of information.  One thing of note; Russ Herriott introduces himself as working with Phil Harris which was true.  He then throws in "and the other guys".  In watching and listening to this video the casual observer would be led to think Russ represents all the Captains and Crew.  That was not (and is not) the case.

Mr. Herriott should have said something like, "Since I represent Phil, and have met all the Captains and Crews, I am in a position to contact them with new opportunities that may interest them."  (or something to that effect)

The Captains and Crew of the Deadliest Catch have their own representation.  Most have had so for quite a while unless, of course, they are new to the show.  Other than Cornelia Marie Members, it is NOT Russ Herriott.

Click to refer to post #13 on Racing West Message Board  (last two sentences)

SEI - Permenantly Revoked in Nevada, Now Active in Washington State

 
Click Link to view:  PERMENANTLY REVOKED Domestic Corporation - SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT INTERNATIONAL

Below is Russ Herriott's Email Signature on the letter he sent out to someone reference "Prospective Sponsorship".

Russ Herriott
President & CEO
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International
Biz: xxxxxxxxxxxxxx


NOW ACTIVE in Washington State as of September 13, 2010

Click Link to View:  SEI-SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT INTERNATIONAL, LLC

Management to the Captains and Crew of the Deadliest Catch

In the email below note the fact that Russ Herriott tells someone he manages the Captain's and Crew from the Deadliest Catch.  For quite a while it was part of his email signature.  He managed one captain and one crew.  The others have their own management in place.  He doesn't say he is in TALKS to have a blend with Sig Hansen and the Hillstrands, he says they are introducing it.  That sounds like it is already a done deal.  Refer back to  the last two lines of post # 13 on  Racing West Message Board Posts .

From: Russ Herriott 
Sent: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 1:23 PM
To: xxx  xxxxxxxxx

Subject: Deadliest Catch ARCA Classified Ad

 

xxx,

 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I wanted to get the following ad placed in the ARCA Classifieds ASAP.

***
Driver with sponsor looking for a team to work together for the 2010 season. Sponsor is new to sport and needs an ontrack presence to grow a brand of coffee that is tied together with a top rated hugely successful reality television show. We are looking for a team that is hungry and willing to work together to develop a successful long term marketing strategy. Please contact Ken Rogers at (xxx xxx xxxx. 

***

I manage the Captains and crew from the show Deadliest Catch. Capt. Phil Harris, his two sons Josh and Jake and I have started a coffee company called Captain's Reserve. We are in over 200 stores on the west coast and we are in talks with retailers for national distribution for 2010. We have 6 blends of coffee on the retail store shelves and we are introducing coffee that will be marketed under Capt. Sig Hansen and Capt's John and Andy Hillstrand for 2010. See attached coffee labels.

Deadliest Catch's viewers overlap those of NASCAR perfectly. And we want to get some presence at Daytona and at as many races as possible. Hopefully a full season.

Please bill the following card for the ad:

Russ Herriott
xxxxxxxxxxx confidential card info xxxxxx

Let me know if you need anything else.

All the best,

Russ Herriott
President & CEO
Captain's Reserve, LLC
On The Edge Beverage Corp, LLC
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International, Inc
Management to the Captains and Crew of Deadliest Catch
Biz: xxx.xxx.xxxx

Contractual Relationships; Put Up or Pay Back

Date: Tue, 6 Jan 2009 21:59:08 -0500
From: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
To: russ@seiracing.com
Subject: Prospective sponsorship

           This gentleman took a $30,000 loss based on the con used by Russ Herriott - President & CEO
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International
.

(To be clear, there are two clients, one lost $20,000 and one lost $30,000)

Hey Russ.  Well, January is here...  Just checking to see if you'd had any interest from your folks on doing a marketing tie in with the upcoming NASCAR season.  Time is of course growing tight to put a program in place.  I really need to hear something solid quickly if you are interested.  All the necessary parts are in place to hit the track with a high expectation of success.  However, I need the funding immediately to get xxxxx in the equipment.  As we have discussed previously, xxxxx will work very economically with us to get started.  The $1 million price I quoted you for primary positioning for a fully televised season in NCWE series is a bargain - as you well know from prior experience.  My 18 year old son tells me that Capt. Phil is a phenomenal hit with his age group - both at college and at his work.  I would love to see xxxxx associated with Phil's product, creating and profiting from a bridge between the two pools: young, upscale coffee purchasers and auto racing fanatics familiar with Phil's "other job".  The East Coast exposure would be tailor fit to the needs you outlined for your expansion targets.
Let me know if you are interested in pursuing this avenue.  Otherwise, I need to start receiving the repayment on the $30,000 as we have discussed.  You know I'd rather see you at the racetrack and help you hand out samples of coffee.
XXX

From: russherriott@xxxxxxx
To: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: FW: Prospective sponsorship
Date: Wed, 7 Jan 2009 06:09:45 -0800

xxx,                     Not one of these statements is true.

You were on my mind this past few days. Update....just yesterday we closed a deal to have a major distributor carry Capt Phil Harris's Gourmet Coffee to 2800 stores. This is absolutley huge for us. In less than 4 months our little doopy coffee company is now poised for some great success. And these 2800 stores are west coast only. Phil and the show is huge on the east coast. We did 3 appearances before Chirstmas in Oregon and each appearance drew over 500 fans. Some waited 4 hours to meet Phil and get his signature. And we had to turn fans away. We will be rolling out a coffee under the other Captains on the show as well in the coming months.  This kind of sales volume now gives me a budget to work with. Phil is big on the racing potential.

Next week I plan on talking with John Boy and Billy and getting the east coast aligned. I have a person to cover the west coast so I now focus attention to the east coast. I am also working with Bad Boy Power Drinks. I am trying to get them aligned to a promotion with Phil and some other captains. Wired Energy is still online and I will be meeting them today but doubtful they will pull the trigger. Bad Boy is putting a deal together with Roush and Paul Menards all based on Menards carrying the product. They are big on what I am doing with Phil and they want to help promote the coffee as well. I am trying to get them into Target right now to get some money thrown over to us.   click to compare with post #13 from Racing West Message Board

I will keep you posted.

Russ Herriott
President & CEO
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International
Biz: xxxxxxxxxxxxxx


From: russherriott@xxxxxxxxx
To: russherriott@xxxxxxxxx
Subject: RE: Prospective sponsorship
Date: Wed, 7 Jan 2009 06:16:35 -0800

xxx,

I failed to mention that the included email is from another client of mine xxx xxxx. I wanted you to know that xxx and his nepthew xxxxx xxxxxxx on on board with me as well. I have known xxx for a few years and xxxxx is an accomplished driver. I am under a time sensitive relationship with xxx as well as he has laid out $30K and if I dont get the sponsorship togehter with xxx I have the same contractual relationship as I have with you.



Russ Herriott
President & CEO
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International
Biz: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

In Response. Then and Now; Big Difference,

Thank you Camille for the information (see post below).  Yes the corn maze did receive coffee just recently.  Unfortunately the advertised Event was September 11th, not October. Many people drove several hours to attend the event, meet the deckhands, and buy signed items that just were not there.

Here is the exact post still on the corn maze site:

"Maze information:

September 11, 2010 Grand Opening

Come and meet Josh and Jake Harris!

Get your Captains Reserve Coffee autographed by Josh and Jake Harris 12pm-4pm"
To add insult to injury, the public were then told that all the coffee had been "accidentally" shipped to stores, however when several fans attempted to pick it up at these "stores" it was not available.

The maze was a tribute to the late Phil Harris, but his branded merchandise which is still available was not there either.

Simply put, what was advertised and promised to the public was not true.  You knew prior to the event that coffee would not be present, yet you took no action to rectify this information on the website, in fact you continued to advertise the event with "Captain's Reserve Coffee" as the sponsor. Not only unethical, but a blatant lie. You may try to sugar coat it any way you like, it won't change the facts. Making a statement about Josh and Jake being easy to work with has nothing to do with this post.

The Corn Maze site states that the Haunted Maze ends October 31.  Here's hoping you can sell the coffee you recently received along with your fresh produce after the maze is finished for the year.

Side Note:  To clarify, it is hoped that Captain's Reserve Coffee can make a come back and flourish.  It is a great product that will excel if managed properly.  This blog is about the mismanagement, not the product itself.  If there are some stores still selling Captain's Reserve, that is a great thing!  The fact is that those stores are few and far between is sad compared to the volume of stores that were carrying the product.  Perhaps now online sales will occur?

Note:  10/25/2010 - it is noted that the Cornmaze site advertises 5 blends of coffee.  As Camille states below when they finally got coffee, they have "all 4 blends".

camille said...

Hello all! First I would like to thank everyone that came to our Grand Opening on September 11th. I actually represent Rutledge Corn Maze and would like to set a few things straight. As to some of the above comments we were never lied to. Russ Herriott and Josh and Jake Harris were very easy and helpful throughout the promotion. Yes, it is true coffee was not available on the day of the Grand Opening however, it is available at the maze now, all four of the blends. If you have questions about Rutledge Corn Maze and the promotion please post and I will respond factually as the person involved in the event.

October 19, 2010 1:01 PM

Funds Transferred, Less Contact; Look Out!

Continuation part 1 of previously started thread, Previous Post "Agent Representation Agreement"



Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:29:24 -0800
From: xxxxxxxxxx
Subject: RE: Getting Started!!!!
To: russherriott xxxxxxxxxx

Russ,

Thanks for the compliment. I actually work out everyday if you consider throwing truck tires around a workout, lol. Anyway, I was expecting to hear from you Friday or Saturday from what you said. Call me anxious, I know it doesn't happen overnight but, I'd still like to be kept "in the know" of anything. Before the funds were transferred, I heard from you quite often, now I don't. Also thought there were some things were looking good as far as that goes as well. Please just keep me informed, I know you are busy with Phil and you have alot going on with him also but, I'm also paying for your services. That in mind, thanks and look forward to hearing from you.
Ken



Subject: RE: Getting Started!!!!
To: "Ken Rogers" xxxxxxxxxxxx
From: Russ Herriott <xxxxxxxxxxx>
Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 5:01 PM
Ken,

Sorry but we are in the midst of getting Phil's coffee into 66 stores in Portland. we need ot get his deal done to establish the product. i have already had talks with other companies that could dist the product back east. looking at over 1000 stores in a coopreative dist deal. I am tryin got interanlize the money through our sources. When cup teams start losing and not getting sponsors, trust me, ARCA teams are a long way back to get sponsors as well. And with the auto biz going bell-up, Im hearing chriysler can sustain enough cash and ford is delaying rebates to dealers, look out.

i will try to keep you updated more often.
Russ Herriott
President & CEO
SEI-Sports & Entertainment International
Biz: xxx-xxx-xxxx

TO BE CONTINUED.

Thread from Racing West Message Board

Thread from Racing West Message Board

#1 Sponsors   
ampf
Posts: 16
10/03/04 08:45 PM    Any tips on getting sponsorships?
Any teams looking for drivers fro the series for next year?
Tips appreciated.


#2 Re: Sponsors   
elucidate
Posts: 139
10/03/04 09:53 PM  
Save yourself some grief, don't use SEI-Sports & Entertainment International.


#3 Re: Sponsors   
PerryWhite
Posts: 98
10/04/04 08:17 AM    I whole heartdly second that motion. Under the work 
flake in the dictionary is that guys picture


#12 Re: Sponsors   
JoeSki1
Posts: 1
11/05/08 11:35 AM    elucidate - SEI-Sports & Entertainment International - 
I am curious about your post. I received a message from SEI about a person 
we want to advertise with and they are using them as their marketing rep. Can 
you please expand on your post? We want to work with this person however 
we would like to know what we are getting into.
Thank you.
JoeSki1

#13 PerryWhite
Posts: 98
11/05/08 02:30 PM    SEI is infamous for ripping people off. You will be asked to pay something up front, and you will never ever see any results. This individual talks a real good game, but produces nothing!! I would also advise your potential sponsor to avoid them at all costs. This also may be SEI's new way of setting the hook in people. Beware of out of state cell phone numbers, never meeting with them anywhere but at the local Denny's. No office or official mailing address!!  If my memory serves me correctly, SEI was even banned from advertising here on Racing West because he had ripped off so many people. He throws big names around, saying they are real close friends, yet when you talk to those big names, they have either never heard of the guy, or have nothing good to say. Beware, beware, beware!




  

US Bankruptcy Court Filing

Statement from Marsha Cruz:
"While I feel no need to justify to those uniformed individuals that have nothing to do with this matter, but continue to feel the need to slander me, here is proof of the bankruptcy filing. What's funny is that the people that are involved, excluding Russ, as he has NO INVOLVEMENT with the Estate of Phil Harris, already have copies. So you see, once again those that listen to this man have made themselves look as stupid and desperate as he is."
Marsha Cruz

Agent Representation Agreement

(Pay special attention to 2.6 in the agreement below)
This AGREEMENT made this 24th day of October, 2008
BETWEEN: SEI-SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT INTERNATIONAL
(Hereinafter referred to as SEI)

AND: KEN ROGERS dba KEN ROGERS RACING
(Hereinafter referred to as TEAM)
Regarding SEI’s EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION of TEAM’s involvement in The ARCA RACE SERIES and/or any other form of professional motorsports. (Hereinafter referred to as The Series)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AGENT REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT

2.6 It is further acknowledged, understood and agreed by TEAM that there is no guarantee or assurance by SEI that such best efforts shall result in obtaining any sponsor that will prove advantageous for the TEAM. Should SEI’s best efforts fail in securing a sponsor for TEAM then it is agreed that SEI will refund the total retainer, as outlined in Section 3 Sub-section 3.1 below, to the TEAM within 60 days of written termination of this agreement, as outlined in Section 1 Subsection 1.1.3. Compensation. 3.1 It is acknowledged and agreed that TEAM will compensate SEI in the following manner. TEAM agrees to forward to SEI retainer payments (Hereinafter referred to as Retainer) as outlined below in the Retainer Payment Schedule.Retainer Payment Schedule: (Total Budget To Be Determined)
$20,000 (Twenty Thousand U.S. Dollars) due at the signing of this agreement.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


21. Signatures.For SEI: SEI-Sports & Entertainment International
By: ______________________________________________________
Russ Herriott
President & CEO
Address: xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Date: _____________________________________________________

For TEAM: Ken Rogers
By: ______________________________________________________
Ken Rogers
Driver/Owner
Address: P.O, xxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Date: ______________________________________________________



Inability to honor the above agreement dashed the hopes and dreams of the gentleman below:


 Click to View Ken Rogers' BullRun.com Profile  "Just a huge adrenaline junkie that's not afraid of much of anything, including Bill Goldberg! LOL. Yeah so what he'd kill me, what's your point? I'm working with Russ Herriott as my Marketing Manager, who also represents Capt. Phil Harris of the tv show "the deadliest catch". People, try his coffee and order some at www.captainsreserve.com. Great guys and great coffee too! I'm planning on racing pro for a few years if we can get a deal cut but we will see. I've been involved with the NHRA on a top fuel team and also took part in buliding 7000 HP dragster motors"




TO BE CONTINUED...

Adult Entertainment Industry and Racing

Click to read entire post.  "I personally know that Phil wanted only Marsha to be in charge of the coffee. I personally know that just before Phil died that Russ was trying to convert the Captain Phil website to a site where he could promote his own racing interests."

From Farzad's F1 Gallery Message Board 6/26/2007

       

"by MonteCristo » Tue Jun 26, 2007 2:46 am

Sponsor news.... *cough*

AVN Racing to Debut at Erotica LA
By: Peter Warren
Posted: 8:00 am PDT 6-21-2007

LOS ANGELES - AVN Media Network has joined forces with Sports & Entertainment International (SEI) to launch AVN Racing, a professional racecar team representing the adult industry. Owned and managed by SEI Racing Enterprises, the team will enter the Champ Car World Series next year. The car itself will be displayed in an AVN Racing booth at Erotica LA this weekend (June 22 - 24), at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

The Champ Car World Series is an open-wheel racecar series with races in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia that are broadcast to over 110 countries worldwide. Domestically, the races are broadcast on NBC, CBS, ABC and ESPN.

"This [is] a major development for the adult entertainment industry," SEI president Russ Herriott stated to AVN.com, "as it would be a featured sports marketing initiative for the industry, with the AVN brand and the brands of the other companies being displayed next to Fortune 500 companies that compete and participate in the series."


The idea for AVN Racing came about when Herriott visited the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo (AEE) during his trip to the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January. SEI, a 15-year-old firm, consults corporations on utilizing professional auto racing as a marketing outlet, and Herriott saw the potential for adult to pursue that avenue.


"The sheer amount of fans that were there, the enthusiasm they had for meeting the stars, participating and looking at what that industry was about, kind of impressed me from the perspective that it was more exciting than the CES show," Herriott explained. "That got me thinking about the possibility for an AVN-sponsored team to go out and race in a international series to promote the adult entertainment industry."

Added AVN Media Network CEO Darren Roberts, "AVN Racing is a concept ready to hatch. This is an outrageous sponsorship opportunity for adult companies to extend their brands to both the U.S. and abroad. More important, it's a way for the studios to reach out to their fan base in much the same way that FedEx, Budweiser, Sprint and other top brands utilize NASCAR."

In addition to the actual car, the AVN Racing Booth at Erotica will offer AVN Racing apparel for sale, a host of adult starlets signing autographs and taking pictures, and appearances by rocker Dave Navarro, who will be there shooting video for his new internet show Spread Entertainment.

A webpage for AVN Racing is under development at avnracing.com.

From Grandprix.com,
posted by tifosi77 on Thu Jun 14, 2007 4:45 am

Be warned, thar be grown up content behind them thar links.
CLICK TO VIEW. ADULT MATERIAL!!!
http://www.avn.com/

For those of you who don't know, AVN stands for 'Adult Video News'. You know how when an actor receives an Oscar they say "I'd like to thank the Academy"? Well, AVN is sorta the 'academy' for the porn industry.
Personally, I have no problem with porn, as I'm sure anyone familiar with my posting history in the BOTD2 thread already knows. However, this is an extremely daring move for Champ Car. (Altho it should be noted that there is no official announcement from CCWS on this as yet) Many major companies shied away from motor racing sponsorships when tobacco money was involved, how do they all think this will play out?