More NCAA suspensions

And you thought they would learn? News has surfaced that five Ohio St. football players will miss the first five games of the 2011 season for accepting improper benefits. Terrelle Pryor, arguably the best QB in the Big Ten, is the most recognized name among the five suspended. According to the details he sold a Big Ten Championship ring, gold pants award and most ironic, his Fiesta Bowl sportsmanship award. How funny is it that he is being suspended for breaking the rules with his sportsmanship award. PS. Who would want to buy that anyway?

The NCAA sanctions committee believes the players weren't educated enough not to know to sell free gear for money and therefor won't suspend the players for the Sugar Bowl. Are you kidding me. From day one, these players are told what they can and can't do, especially regarding money. They are given a huge TEXTBOOK with all the rules laid out in plain English. Don't tell me they don't know the rules. That's ignorance. There is a full time compliance staff that is in charge of all this nonsense. If nothing else, fire those guys for not doing their job correctly.
The most important point of all is that I give 2-1 odds that says Terrell Pryor goes to the NFL after this season, which would mean his suspension is void. What is the motivation for him to stay? How can he show the scouts he has improved when he will miss half the season? This suspension hurts the less talented players much more.

The NCAA needs to either hire more people to educate the students on this matter or sit down and figure out a way for these kids to receive some money as they play football. I am sure there is enough to go around.

Haven't seen Terrelle post anything on Twitter about this episode yet.

I will keep my eyes peeled.

Post your thoughts to keep the conversation going.

Quarterback becomes pitchman

Well the long awaited day has finally arrived. Mr. Michael Vick is promoting products and brands again. Only a few years removed from his 21 month stint in the slammer for organizing a dog fighting cartel.

The new gig is un paid but he is getting the use of a

$54,000 Nissan Armada, not bad for a 1/2 days work.

I am a firm believer that everyone deserves a second chance in life and it doesn't hurt that Vick has been nothing short of unbelievable on the field this year. From what I see of him, he is a changed man and has learned from his mistakes. I agree with Mr. Marshal who says that if Vick keeps playing at an MVP level, he will end up with more endorsements than he had before he went to prison.

Now this short ad he did is pure ordinary but that's a good way to start. Slowly but surely wins the race in the endorsement ring. Maybe Tiger Woods can take a gander at Mr. Vick and realize that all he needs to do is win, and public perception will will become positive again.

Just to clarify, I am against dog fighting but lets be honest, many NFL stars have done much worse than Vick and have not seen a day in jail. For example, Ray Lewis killed a man in a bar fight and didn't miss a Sunday start. It's my opinion that we take the treatment of animals more seriously than the treatment of other humans, and that is sad.

I'd like to hear your thoughts about Vick and his new endorsement deal. Would you hire him, and more importantly, would you bring him on to your team if he were available? Not only would I, but I am praying that the KC Chiefs take a hard look and TRADE for him.

The Big Ten Big Fail

Here is a taste of what the Big Ten will look like in the fall of 2011. I feel sorry for all the Big Ten alumni and fans, this logo design is a disgrace to the history of the conference. It seriously looks like something a high school girl would doodle in her notebook during math class.

If anyone knows who they contracted to design, please let me know. They need some help.

Lets now discuss the two divisions that were created. The Legends and Leaders? Are you kidding me? I don't understand how both Ohio St and Penn St. are not in the Legends division. I mean those are two of the main staples of the Big Ten. And how does Nebraska who has never played a Big Ten game get into the Legends division? Absurd.

If I were the commissioner of the Big Ten, now Big 12 I guess, I would name the divisions based on the Great Lakes so it's not so damn confusing.

A Heisman Backlash

Like some of you, I have been following the Cam and Cecil Newton circus show. Personally, I don't see how Cam was unaware that his Dad was shopping his talent around to schools such as Mississippi State and Auburn. Just the fact that his Dad would do this is enough for me to not give Cam my Heisman vote.

I am really intrigued to see that a few people that have a vote for the Heisman have asked that Cecil not attend the ceremony. I applaud them for this and hope also, that these voters are the same people that don't vote for Cam. You can't diminish the fact that Cam Newton absolutely dominated on the field, he was unstoppable and carried the Tigers to the national championship game. For that reason, he should win the Heisman, hands down.

My only concern is that he wins the trophy this year and then just like Reggie Bush, four years later, he is ruled ineligible and the trophy is taken away. I don't want another empty picture, that just puts a scar on the whole Heisman Trophy situation.

Special Edition

As I am sure most of you don't know, but I have an obsession with athletic shoes. Right now I am in the Jordan High Top phase. As a young kid I would buy athletic shoes based on the colors. I wanted to have the most unique shoes in school.

Shoe designs inspire me, they make me feel free and allow me to be creative. Check this out, a special edition Nike Dunk made out of used skateboards from Nike's skateboard team. The detail that is put into this design is unreal. It is so awesome that it actually looks fake.

This has got to be the coolest pair of shoes I have ever seen, although they are un-wearable I would pay lots of money to have these on a shelf somewhere in my man cave.

The artist is Haroshi and here is the link to his awesome website.

http://haroshi.com/artworks/index.html

Absured Contract

I have pretty much given up on understanding the point of these NFL stars signing huge contracts. Take for example Donovan McNabb, who signed a 5 year-$78 million dollar deal. After the details have been uncovered, he is only guaranteed $3.5 million of that total. So, that is why I say, to hell with the contracts.

I have a large suspicion that the Skins are just going to release him after the end of the season to avoid paying that contract especially after his dismal and embarrassing performance against the Eagles.

My proposal is the NFL go strictly to 1 year contracts which are guaranteed, would sure make the players play harder throughout the season....unless they were trying to avoid injury.

ESPN Page 2 has a great breakdown of some of the incentives for his contract.

My favorites are:

$200,000 for getting more followers on Twitter than T.O.

$400,000 for completing full P90x program

$250,000 for completing training camp drills

It's on.........like DK

You know that phrase that we all have used when just about to dominate an opponent, well Nintendo is trying to trademark that phrase. "It's on like Donkey Kong".

For some reason Nintendo thinks it should have exclusive rights to that phrase even though they weren't the originators of it. As I think back, it seems to me as though popular culture made that phrase popular, albeit from playing DK for Super Nintendo.

What I can tell you is that I used that phrase probably ten times a day for the duration of my Sophomore year of college as I tried to beat the DK game every afternoon after class. That shows that not only is it a popular thing to say but also that I suck at the game since I actually never beat it. Bummer.

The funniest thing about this whole story is that the phrase "it's on like donkey kong" is actually listed in Urban Dictionary meaning "A phrase to denote that it's time to throw down or complete at a high level".

According to that definition, I can see a small college adopting the phrase as a locker room chant before the big rivalry game.

GAME ON. NINTENDO

Cleveland fires back at Lebron

Rise up ye fans of Cleveland.

Lebron asks the people if he should disappear, tells them he has done this before and talks about his legacy. The fans respond by saying he has done this before, he quit in game 5 vs Boston. He has cemented his legacy in Cleveland, as a traitor.

I give props to Clevelanders for not letting Lebron dupe them as he tried to do. He used his fans to build his legacy and his fortune and then crapped on them the minute he had a chance to be with his friends in Miami.

We are all witness to his......QUITNESS.

Odds: Cleveland makes playoffs 5-1

Miami Heat win championship 7-1

How Army became popular in football

Over the past few years, college football teams have been exploring new options with uniforms. I think Army has outdone every other school with their rendition of the alternate uniform in a game verses the Virginia Military Academy.

How intimidating would be it to line up against a bunch of guys who look like they are about to go into combat.

Although I am an Ok-State alumni and love our black out uniforms, I have to give it up to Army for the #1 college football uniform. They should make these there permanent home jerseys.

The next Jack Nicholson

Guess who is trying to take over Jack's spot as the #1 most visible Laker fan? Wrong.

Justin Biber. He was sitting court-side last night wearing a Kobe jersey and sporting Phil Jackson's bling ring.

Since when did he and Phil start becoming besties? Is Phil part of his entourage or a groupie?

Bieber was born in Canada in 1994, at that time the most famous Laker was Nick Van Excel. I have good reason to believe Bieber has no idea who that even is.

The thought of Bieber now being a HUGE Laker fan has just added to the reason why I dislike him. This, along with the fact that a 17 year old writes a biography and sells finger nail polish are many of the reasons why I'm not a fan.

Who is going to be the next Laker Super-Fan?

My money is on one of the Jon & Kate + 8 kids.

Paint covers the King

Well here is Cleveland's response to Lebron James leaving in the dark of the night for Miami. Nothing wipes away the thoughts of the so called "King" better than some good paint. Sherwin Williams none the less.

I like how they put the emphasis on being hometown since 1866. In your face LEBRON.

Nothing makes this better than the Heat losing their first game of the season to the Celtics. Hmm, I wonder if Shaq can take the Celtics to the Finals. I am not a Shaq or Celtics fan but I would rather see them in the Finals than the Heat.

Lets just hope that we don't have to WITNESS the Cavs going WINLESS this year.

PS. I had no idea Cleveland had such a small downtown.

Thanks SNL

It's about time SNL did a parody on those awful Wrangler Jeans commercials staring the ageless wonder Mr. Brett Favre. Not only is it funny, but the timing of this parody couldn't have been any better. Favre has been denying for three weeks that he ever had any contact with this NY Jets mistress, then just days ago, Favre admitted to NFL security that he left messages on her cell phone BUT didn't send her any pics of his junk.

So if he at first denied ever talking to this lady and the junk pics, and now he said he did talk to her, it's only time before the wein pics become part of his Hall of Fame slideshow.

What a way to end hopefully his final season in the NFL. Admittedly, I was a Brett Favre fan when he played for the Packers, but the longer he has dragged out his career the more I have become sick of his play. Not to nock his talent but he has only been to two Super Bowls and won only one. If I were a GM, he is not someone I would be looking at to take my team to the promised land.

I have to say I have doubts that one, Brett Favre drives a beat up truck in real life and two, that he even wears Wrangler jeans.

Real. Comfortable. Junk pics.

Done

Once again, Peter Griffin sums it up best.

After a rough weekend and presentation at school, this is my thought as our Fall Break is now here. Going to take a day off from school and rest my mind before the 2nd half of the semester starts.

Nike's Key Interception

Just announced today, Nike has won the battle for on field NFL gear. They will be the official sponsor of uniforms, base layers, and coaches and fan apparel. Both Under Armour and Adidas/Reebok were vying for the account.

Personal opinion, this could kill Reebok. I know they have now moved into the women's shoe and fitness apparel business but losing the grip on the NFL is a big downer to the business. Bloomberg news reported that the NFL deal makes up half of the $650M apparel revenue for Reebok. You can't make up that difference by selling more Easy Tone sneakers.

On the flip side, Nike's ingenuity and flare will add to the sweetness of the NFL jerseys. I mean just look at what Nike has done for the U of Oregon athletic program. Their football program has over 100 different combinations of jerseys.

Hey, I wonder if Nike or Wieden+Kennedy will be hiring any recent grads in the spring of 2012?

Soccer Fans - A loyalty I have yet to understand

Although it may seem this way, I am not going to make every post about sports enthusiasts who go above and beyond with their tattoos. But I found this guy and felt compelled to share. He is a loyal fan of the Atletico Nacional football team. He thought it would be a cool idea to get the entire soccer jersey tattooed on his chest and back. Not only is this intense, it' flat out CRAZY.

O the more I read the more it might actually make some sense. So, this fan is paying homage to his favorite fallen soccer hero who was murdered in his home country.

Right now I am working on a project to bring the NFL to the UK and build on the success it has had in America. How do I get the NFL to incorporate fans like this??

Standing out in a world of sameness

As some of you may know, I am not a big fan of the NBA. I find it terribly boring to watch, especially during the regular season as it seems most of the players don't care about the score. Defense is half assed at best which causes the game to lack strategy and toughness. It is basically pass once and throw up a shot or a 1-1 drudge match.

What makes me watch the NBA are the colorful and crazy players who make the game interesting such as Chris "Birdman" Anderson. Not only is he the type of player who plays with aggression and passion for the game but he prides himself on his creative tattoos. He sure won't disappoint the crowds this year with his newest edition on his neck.

I see tattoos as a way to brand oneself or to advertise an image. In many cases the loudest person in the room is the one that is heard the best, and I think that trophy goes to the Birdman.

Props to you Birdman for having the guts to get a neck tattoo which includes flames and the dollar bill sign.

Heart Surgery MUST wait

A Michigan man has put heart surgery on hold because he doesn't want to miss the Battle for the Governor's Trophy. He claims to be a die hard Michigan St. fan. Now that may be true but by delaying his pacemaker surgery he is putting more of an emphasis on DIE than on die hard fan.

And I thought I was too passionate about sports. Now I love the OSU Cowboys. I watch their games, follow their blogs, wear the gear and "bleed orange" but there is no way I would put any medical procedure or even doctor's appointment on hold for a football game.

You would think this man would take some advice from the MSU head coach who had a heart attack after the ND game. Coach took a few weeks off and is easing back into his position. Nothing is more important than your health, for darn sake, they have TV's in the hospital rooms. This is one of the reasons why people from other countries such as the middle east hate America so much.

So, MSU players and coaches, NO PRESSURE. If you play like crap and lose to Michigan, DUDE over here might blow a gasket while cursing the TV.

Save my favorite ESPN commentator

So, I guess as a ESPN analyst there are rules about expressing your political views. Seems as though sweet Lou Holtz has gotten himself into a bit of a pickle over comments made to GOP supporters about a campaign to "fire Nancy Pelosi". Now, I am not in a position to comment on his political views, although I am a Republican. What I will comment on are the stupid football references that were made in the pamphlet. Here are a few I find repulsive:

-The House can't find the end zone without your support

-We are late in the 4th quarter of the midterm elections

-Drive the Republican party to victory

Why is it necessary to make frivolous sports references when trying to hit home a point. It cheapens the call to action, especially for those of us in the communication/advertising business.

All that's left to be said is that Lou is a great football analyst and a big reason why my wife watches football with me. So for that fact, ESPN, please don't fire Sweet Lou.

PS. He would be an amazing Grandpa!

New Direction

After a month of learning and failing at the Brandcenter, one thing has been ingrained in my mind. Find a passion outside of school and exploit it. I tried thinking of cool things to do or passions that make my life interesting and every time I came back to sports.

So, since sports is obviously my passion, why not expound on that and show people who don't know me why I love sports so much. Not only do I enjoy watching sporting events but I have a passion for reading about athletes and their lives on and off the field. Also, since I am in Advertising I find it interesting seeing how companies and brands use sports to spread their message to consumers.

From here on out, my blog will be dedicated to sports stories. How they affect my life, how they affect advertising and what are things to look forward to in the future.

Clip your docs

Here is to a new product called the "Go-Clip It" USB drive. Thanks for helping me keep my most valuable documents close at hand. You keep me from coming within seconds of having a panic attack when I can't find my flash drive.

Although you are small and come in some pretty girly colors, you do serve a purpose and people will sing your praises after they search there office for 2 hours looking for that USB only to realize that it was clipped to their tie.

Shoes and Asses

I came across this new ad for Diesel sneakers. Now I am not really sure the point of the ad but I do find it quite entertaining. THe idea of a shoe chasing an ass through the desert in search of a swift kick is quite creative.

This is what I love about advertising. Diesel has given their ad agency the creative freedom to do what they want and out of that brain session comes this great concept. Now I am sure this campaign won't win any awards butt who cares.

Diesel, you have grabbed my attention and for that I applaud you.

Illustrations always make great ads

I came across these ads while on stumbleupon. They are for a high class clothing brand Allen Solly. What intrigued me was that I have never seen drawings/illustrations used for so called fashion ads. Also, I love the fact they the ads were drawn and the photos were taken from above as to create the illusion that the models were in motion.

Now, I probably won't ever buy anything from that store but I may use that style someday when creating a campaign or logo design.

Another shout-out to stumbleupon.com for boosting my creativity one click at a time.

Corner Office NYT 9/5/2010

Here are some good thoughts on leadership.

Leadership is listening to people and understanding what motivates them. A new good way to lead is from the "back". It's almost more of a support role. Good qualities of a new hire are that they are honest with themselves, curious and not looking for a title.

Two great interview questions to think about.

- What do you think your really good at?

- Tell me about a challenge you've overcome and don't tell me about a work challenge.

Finally, as a leader ask a lot more questions and make a lot fewer statements.

Intro to the Brandcenter

I just completed my first full week at the Brandcenter. I don't think anything was way to out of the ordinary. The 2nd years, including my mentor did a good job of preparing me for what lied ahead. Obviously the work load is somewhat light for the BC, being that it was the 1st week of school and I have a long weekend to work on things. What I do know is that I am going to learn a ton during these 60 weeks. Not only am I going to learn a lot about advertising and how to think creatively, but I am going mature personally and learn to become a better well spoken leader.

A few interesting tidbits

Don't ask questions unless it is ABSOLUTELY necessary

Many assignments are broad for a reason

Think for yourself

A few quick notes from Orientation

Thoughts and attitudes to keep in mind as I start my first year at the Brandcenter in the Creative Brand Management track.

1. Have a point of view and don't shy away from it

2. Question the creative, ask what does it ADD to the brand.

3. The Brandcenter is a prelude to a career, treat is as such

4. It's a PHD program - Professional/Proactive, Humble, Dignity

5. Run your meetings with the PAL method

-Purpose, Agenda, Limit

6. Overcome weakness by taking on roles that may seem uncomfortable

Welcome to the Brandcenter

Yesterday was my first day, well if you can call sitting through 9 hours of orientation the first day of school. The day was long, but I learned a lot about the program not only from the professors but from a few of the students.

A 2nd year student came to speak to us who was fortunate enough to represent the Brandcenter at the Cannes Ad Festival in Cannes, France. These are a few of his main talking points:

-Storytelling is not dead

-If you have a digital ad piece, make sure it functions on it's own and is not a continuation from your print or TV campaign

We also had the pleasure of really hearing from a recent grad who now works for the Martin Agency. I was so impressed by her presentation skills and how comfortable she seemed infront of us. These are a few things I learned from her:

-Find your happy place

-Be Patrick Swayze from Dirty Dancing

-Don't be a douchebag

What a glorious first day. I can't complain at all, especially when the day ends with a Happy Hour provided by the school.

New Experience Awaits

Hey there, I am back from the abyss, also known as summer break. Today is my last day of summer, tomorrow I have a 12 hour orientation for the VCU Brandcenter. Although it's going to be a long day, I am very excited to be starting this new chapter in my life. I feel as though I have a second chance at making a great career choice. There is something about Advertising that gives me those butterfly's in the stomach. Not from anxiousness or nervousness, but a giddy feeling of complete joy that I will be creating creative campaigns for awesome and inspiring brands.

These next two years are going to be very busy, at least that's what everyone keeps saying! I have been told that I will be a completely different person after this experience. I hope that is true as long as I keep my core values and principles.

My goal is to keep yall updated daily on my experiences. Some of my posts will be full of excitement while I am sure others will be downers. That's just the way life is at the Brandcenter.

More later.

Less print more digital

Levi CMO Cohen Szulc is on to something here. We as advertisers need to stray away from starting every campaign with print ads. What is the need for print? I believe, along with Mr. Szulc that the digital channels are the best way to promote a brand or product.

Levi's "Go Forth" campaign showed tremendous progress in the digital age. The interactive programs that were created were a huge success.

Mr. Szulc sums it up best by saying "It is not about selling a product, it is about being coveted and creating a customer experience."

As I start on my new adventure as a creative brand manager student at the VCU Brandcenter, this is one idea that I will take to heart. The best ads and the best campaigns are those done through the digital medium using unique programs that allow the customer to interact with the brand.

We are trying to find the balance between Brand Loyalty and Brand Advocacy.

Kids & Media

What a changing landscape we have. I can remember the days of my childhood when video games were just starting to become popular and adults were just starting to talk about how watching too much TV can cause problems.

Dave Knox, my new favorite Marketing and Media blogger/Brand Manager has a great summation of an article written about the media and how it is taking over our youth's lives.

A few facts that stood out to me
-young people are spending more time consuming media on their cell phone than talking on it
-3 out of 4 young people own an iPod while only 2 out of 3 own a cell phone
-time spent playing video games is up 50%

And what is most shocking, is that 7 out of 10 young people have a TV in their bedroom. Although it made me mad that my parents wouldn't let me have a TV in my room, I know I am so much better for it. I was forced to read, play games and GET OUT OF THE HOUSE to enjoy myself. I know for sure that my kids won't be seeing any kind of TV in their room until it's a college dorm.

To and From Work

Well the one thing that is exciting about working in downtown Chicago is that the elevators in my building are equipped with TV's that update the days news during my ride to and from the 29th floor. I really look forward to watching that screen every time I am near the elevator. My only thought about why I enjoy it so much is that it has to beat the awkwardness that comes with riding an elevator. At least I don't have to stare at the floor or watch the buttons light up as we approach certain floors. I now have a purpose while I take my 30 second ride.

During my ride I am bombarded with daily updates on sports, international news, politics and weather all in a jiffy. My only concern when waiting for the elevator is to be the first person on, so I can have that coveted spot right next to the buttons which just happens to be right under the TV screen.

I am easily amused and enjoy the little things in life. I guess that is something good to take away as I continue my work as a research associate for the temporary future.

Movie Branding

Read an interesting article today that was posted on Twitter about how Branding is becoming much more previlent in movies these days. I was unaware of the amount of money brands were paying in order to get facetime in popular movies. Sometimes the amount can be upwards of 7 figures.

I guess we can't get away from branding products. Just a way of life and we need to embrace it!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/05/business/media/05screen.html?src=me&ref=business

Wisconson Bound

Well this afternoon I will be heading to the lakes of Wisconson. My first trip North of Chicago. I am excited to go, haven't been out of the city in a few months and I get to spend some time with my wife and good friends. The bummer of it all is this darn weather. High this weekend of 58 degrees is going to make for a cold outing on the lake and some frigid nights huddled around the campfire making smores.

Side note #1: This has been the best NCAA basketball tournament in recent memory. Such great games and the mid-majors have really come to play. Although my bracket is torn to shreds I am loving it that much more. Rooting for the underdog from here on out.

Side note #2: Just got that gigly feeling because I found out that two of my favorite movies are making sequals. First, 10 years after Zoolander, Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson and Will Ferrel will team up again for Zoolander 2. Second, Ed Helms, Zach G, Justin Bartha and Bradley Cooper are in the process of making a Hangover 2.

Leaving the office with a SMILE!

Another week

It's that time again. I feel like I have been in this nightmare before. It is Sunday evening and I am dreading going to work tomorrow. Although this job is nothing close to as brutal as my accounting job I held for over a year and a half, it is still tough to have the desire to start a whole new week.

This is my first temp job since being laid off. I am working as a research assistant for a nursing association. It is pretty rough, sitting at a desk and going through all fifty states looking for nurses who have been disciplined in the past 14 years.

At least there is a light in the tunnel, in less than five months I will be back at school as a full time student. Doing my best to get a job in the branding world.

Update

Well it's been about a month since I have last written. A lot has gone on in that time. My quest for higher education is now complete. I have been accepted at two great schools and have to make my decision by the end of the month.
Each school will give me a completely different experience. Both will be great but neither will be the same. MyMy experience at the MBA program will give me more insight into business knowledge and a better understanding of financial models and research tactics as they are intertwined into the marketing and branding world. Most of the classes will be those that I have already taken in my undergrad. For example: Economics, Acct, Finance, Marketing. My concern with this program is that my first year of school will be so dull and boring because I will not be learning anything about my new career field.

The other program that I am seriously considering is an Advertising program where I would concentrate in Creative Brand Management. This program is somewhat new, about 5 years old but in that time has made significant strides within the branding community. My experiences at this school will be like none I have ever had before. I will be thrown into the fire with creative people and learn how to execute creative briefs and marketing plans for real companies. It would be an intense two years but something that will keep me on my toes at all times.

I am planning to meet with alumni from both programs in the next week so that I can gain a better understanding of what each program has to offer and how it can help me in my career.

Anyway, today is the huge celebration for St. Patrick's day here in Chi so I better get ready!

Valentine Gift

Now I am someone who loves Valentines Day. Not only because of the funny baby that shoots love arrows or that it is also my birthday, but because of the crazy products that are sold on TV. As I was watching TV this evening, I found myself watching an info-mercial for a new valentine product. My mouth dropped and I chuckled because I thought it was a joke.

This hug-e-gram is like buying Mickey Mouse's arms and hands for a Valentine Gift. Although it seems like a crazy product, I am sure there are men out there who are going to wait until the last minute, see this commercial and pull the trigger. I can't say for sure but I think MOST women would rather have a beautiful bouquet of real flowers instead of a hug-e-gram. Not only can you get this product for only $19.99 but if you act within the first ten minutes you will receive a 12 free WOOD ROSES. ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? Why would anyone want WOOD ROSES?

Just another product to add to the "how did this get past the R&D phase".

Click on my title to check out the product and tell me what you think!

Change in style for Super Bowl Ads

Just when I was getting use to the creative ads from Bud Light, I read that they are changing their approach for this years Super Bowl. No more "Drinkability" or Clydesdale horses to entertain us. This year they are changing the focus back to the idea of having a good time while you enjoy your Bud Light. I am really intrigued by this new campaign. I am sure that the ads will be funny, but I will miss the horses.
What is more amazing is that a new agency was in charge of creating these ads. No longer is DDB the mainstay for Bud Light.

All the more reason to watch the Super Bowl and NOT mute the commercials!

Click on my title to read the article.

Award winning agency

Visiting Richmond this weekend was a great way to learn about the history of the US and also get caught up with the AD world. As I was reading Ad Age on Monday at the airport I came across the article that listed the top 10 agencies in the US for 2009. To my surprise, the Martin Agency was #4. The more research I do, the more I find that the Martin Agency is becoming a big player in the world of creative advertising. They have produced three of my favorite spots.

Although the songs are annoying, the freecreditreport.com commercials grab my attention. There couldn't be a more unique way to show the importance of credit checks than having a garage band make up songs about how their life has been ruined due to their poor credit.

I am sure everyone is aware of the Geico spots but I would bet that most people don't know who produced those ads. Again the Martin Agency, using their unique creative talent, gave us a character that we all recognize.

Finally, the UPS whiteboard ads. Those are my favorite because the spots are so clean and sterile but yet have a distinct way of catching my eye and keeping my attention. One interesting fact that I just found out is that the "white board guy" is actually an employee of the Martin Agency. Not only is he just another employee, he is the creative director on the account. What an awesome job that would be!

A different way of watching TV

I was reflecting back today on the last five months of my life and one major thing came to light. Although I still watch TV, I watch it in a completely different way. I use to hate commercials, I would mute the TV until my show came back on. Anymore I am waiting for the commercials while watching my shows. Most of the ads that are broadcasted really intrigue me. Not by the message they convey but the way they do it and the design of the ad. I have to say, there are more bad than good commercials that run today but I have come to appreciate the good ones. by the type of ads that are broadcasted. As I watch these ads I try and understand what angle the agency is using to convey a certain product to their target audience.

Some of these commercials are so bad that it seems as though the ad agency executives had a blindfold on when they were presented with the pitch. I mean, I have no experience in advertising but I think I could do a better job of creating an identity and arousing the will for consumers to buy the product.

TV watching will not be the same for me anymore. And surprisingly, that is not a bad thing. I am really looking forward to watching the Super Bowl and critiquing all the ads.

Arrival

Well today has finally arrived. This is the day that I have been anxiously awaiting for the past two months. Ever since that night in the early fall when I first logged onto the VCU Brandcenter site I have wanted to visit. After an early flight and a three hour nap, we made our way around town and drove by the campus.

My first impression of Richmond was a little disappointing at first. Rainy days always make cities seem a bit dirty and less desirable. After driving around town for a while we finally saw the vintage style that has made Richmond such a wonderful city to call home. Seeing rows of houses made from red brick with the southern style columns brought me back to my days at Ole Miss. I can't wait for tomorrow, checking out the Museum of the Confederacy, touring the State Capital and then driving to Virginia Beach for dinner sounds like an AMAZING day. Best of all, I get to spend it with my beautiful wife.

Watching Casino Royal on TV brings me back to my time in Vegas. I really need to learn how to be a better poker player.

Well I better get some rest, this time zone switch has me staying up later. Kinkos awaits early tomorrow!!!

Apple Experience

Today I spent twenty minutes in the Apple Store on Michigan Ave. I know you are probably thinking that I just browsed the products and left with nothing but I actually bought a new laptop, printer and software. I love the Apple Store because they make purchasing a computer so easy. Their staff is so knowledgeable and so accessible. It is so much better than going to Best Buy and trying to get help from their staff.

I love the MacBook Pro's operating system. It is so user friendly and fast. Downloading software was a breeze and it connected to my wireless network in no time. Much better than my PC did a few years back. That was a nightmare.

Overall, I am so impressed with this product I don't see myself switching to a PC anytime in the future.
My favorite part of being at the Apple Store today was watching a few elderly men take in a computer tutorial class. I love the fact that they are trying to keep up with technology instead of getting behind and having a bitter attitude.

Props to Steve Jobs and company for an AMAZING product.

2010, the year of social media

These are a few of my new favorite words that I will be using quite often in 2010.

MOBILENECKING: The alarming tendency to have our necks titled down or shifted sideways -- ever glued to our mobile device.

JACK RIPPER: The device warriors who hog outlets anywhere they can find them -- in the airport

BUCK SUCKED: The condition that typically slaps you in the face when reading your credit card bill and you see dozens of "dollar" charges for music and "what the heck" iPhone or mobile apps.

My Favorite is:
RUNWAY REBEL: That guy (or gal) who keeps the "electronic device" going well past the airline warnings and prohibitions.

Google Search

So I was doing some research for my VCU application. I was typing a lot into the Google search toolbar above.
I started to type "is" and these were the top three questions I could choose from.

1) Is Lady Gaga a man?
2) Is Lady Gaga a hermaphrodite?
3) Is the world going to end in 2012?

I am glad we have our priorities straight about what are the most important questions.

Starting to get that cooped up feeling. I have been inside and on the computer since 9AM.

Don't want to get your hands dirty?

Also, click on the title above to check out the lazy man's ass wiper. I wish I were in the conference room when the marketing folks were trying to figure out the best way to advertise this new product. Would have been priceless.

This would be a great gift to give anyone on their birthday or anniversary.

2010 will wipe your ass for you!

Looking for toned triceps?

As I was relaxing on the couch today watching TV, I came across this infomercial. I couldn't believe what I was watching. Never had I seen a product be so suggestive yet try to be so real. This product is called the "Shake Weight". What a provacative yet hillarious commercial. I looked at my wife in disbelief as the infomercial played. The Shake Weight is a dumbell that you shake back and forth and is supposed to tone your bi's and tri's. You check it out and let me know what you think

check it

Sat Morning Brew

So, its early Saturday morning. It sure feels like Sunday. I thought I would touch on a few brief issues before I have to head off to brunch with some friends.

First, I read on Ad Age that Angelina Jolie is being replaced in the AD campaign for St. John because she is too famous and would take away from the ad. That is the first time I have ever heard of such an out there idea. I don't really see why she is so famous, I don't find her that attractive. Maybe people love her because she just keeps adopting african babies. If you look at the add she is in, I don't think she overshadows the brand. I think they hit a home-run with the add, not because of her but due to the two awesome weimaraners that accompany her.

Second, for any of you sports fans out there that enjoy reading humorous articles about fake sports then check out thebrushback.com. Today there was a great article about Jake Locker and how he is returning for his senior season in college football in hopes of having a career ending injury that prevents him from being drafted in the NFL. I always get a kick out of these stories.

On a final note, as I was driving home from the unemployment office yesterday morning I saw a car get pulled over by a police man who was on a 4-wheeler. How embarrassing must that have been. And this wasn't out on some country road, it was in the middle of downtown Chicago. I give that a 2-STAR BUMMER.

SNOW DAY

Today I felt like a little kid again. I have been looking for snow boots since early November. Its odd, but I have never owned a pair of snow boots in my life. As a kid I always wore sneakers. I hated the way snow boots looked, they were so bulky and the fur just threw me off. But ever since I moved to Chicago I have understood how important a nice pair of boots are. Today they finally arrived. I found a great pair of TIMBERLANDS on EBAY. I had to buy them. They are black and grey with a black fur lining. Totally ME! They arrived just in the nick of time, as Chicago was being pounded with 7 inches of snow.

On a less serious note, I am really looking forward to watching the National Championship game tonight. I am rooting for ALABAMA since I am anti everything TEXAS.
Also, today is day 3 of hitting the gym for my new years resolution. I am working on chest and triceps today.

GOTTA FEEL THE BURN!

Branded

I thought I would mention just a quick few thoughts I had this morning. I am an avid reader of ADAGE, what a great way to stay in the know of advertising and marketing. On today's CMO site there was an article about the AUDI brand and how it is making headlines in the auto industry while everyone else is struggling. Their CMO "Scott Keogh" spoke about their marketing efforts. I was impressed by his 3 marketing goals.
1) The oil parade campaign pushing the use of diesel fuel. Such a great advertisement
2) Using the inauguration of President Obama to deliver the speech and news show commercial free
3) The Le-Mans racing documentary done by NFL films which ran on ESPN/ESPN2 and ITUNEs.

I am so impressed by their efforts, its great to see that a car company understands how us consumers are sick of the same old commercials - car on road - tell us about new technology - low price - go to dealership.

Basically, when I go to buy my next car, the AUDI dealership will be the first place I look.

staying positive

Since many of you may not know, I have been unemployed since the 4th of December. This past week and a half I have been working on my applications for MBA school. I have written 10 essays and my mind is about to explode. Today, I took a break from the essays and did a little job searching online. The one thing I hate about applying to positions online is that the companies make you attach a cover letter and resume but then end up asking you to fill in all your work experience on their own site. What a waste of time.
Mark my word, if I ever own my own company I will never make people fill out mindless information in order to apply for a job.
On a more positive note, I watched the HANGOVER for a 3rd time last night. What a great movie. I am going to watch it a few more times so I can quote all the great lines. Zach G. is the best character by far.

I think I am going to start reading one of my marketing books that I was given for Christmas, hopefully I will gain some new insight into my new and exciting field.

I'm not getting a sig on my beeper

Hello Friends,

Let me just start off by saying how I hope you enjoy my stories, and maybe even learn something new along the way. Last night Em and I went to watch AVITAR. I must preface this by saying that I was not the least bit interested in seeing this movie. It looked like one of those SCI-FI movies that I would HATE. After watching it, in 3-D I might add, I was very impressed. Not only was the story line good but the visual affects were amazing. James Cameron should definitely win an oscar for best director. What a great way to enhance our viewing pleasure. I just have a few questions:
1) Was the main character really paralyzed or did they super-impose those legs on him?
2) Why is Sigourney Weaver always in movies about saving the planets?
3) Do you think in the year 2150 we will have those kind of technological capabilities?

I just want to finish this post by saying that I wish i were an AVITAR. Nothing could beat being blue and 10 feet tall.