« January 2005 | Main | March 2005 »
February 28, 2005
How To Get That Red Carpet Look
The Red Carpet looks better every year and one trend that doesn't seem to quit is the smoky eye. Seen on bombshells Salma Hayek, Penelope Cruz, Laura Linney, Kirsten Dunst, Natalie Portman and Drew Barrymore, smoky eyes were grabbing everyone's attention.
Getting this look is easy with the right tools, a cream to powder eyeliner provides more of a smudgy look and can also be used as an eyeshadow. For a look like Kirsten Dunst's, try Jane Iredale's Cream to Powder Eyeliner in Black/Brown Plus.
For a more defined eye, you can stipple a cream to powder liner with a synthetic eye lining brush, or try the traditional pencil like Jane Iredale's Eye Pencil in Basic Black, to mimic Drew Barrymore's look.
Try Jane Iredale's Black Plus for Penelope Cruz's style and Blue Plus for Salma Hayek's seductive look.
Posted by at 06:32 PM | TrackBack
Fred Durst Sex Tape Strengthens Homeland Security!?
Not exactlly headline news, perhaps a little in the gutter... but you have to wonder is this another Paris Hilton viral marketing escapade or a true hack of Fred Durst T-Mobile Sidekick or personal computer?
Gawker apologizes, for showing you Fred Durst’s penis. "We didn’t think of the repercussions and thus regret any traumatic scarring we may have caused. If need be, we know a nice shrink on Park Avenue who’s admitting new patients".
"That being said, our suspicions were confirmed: Durst’s sex tape was not captured on a T-Mobile device (the Sidekick 2, as we thought, doesn’t even have a video function) but was actually stolen (or “hacked,” as the kids are calling it) from his personal computer. Whether or not Durst was trying to make a quick profit from the video remains to be seen but, in the meantime, he puts it all in perspective:
“If you wanna know how not secure you are, just take a look around,” he said. “
Nothing’s secure. Nothing’s safe. It’s just helping us get better, causing awareness for homeland security. … I don’t hate technology, I don’t hate hackers, because that’s just what comes with it, without those hackers we wouldn’t solve the problems we need to solve, especially security.”
Oh, our bad! We thought Durst’s penis was sprinkling salt on our karmic wounds, but we were way off. This is about the war on terror. Carry on, Durst. Carry on.
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 10:00 AM
Fashion Observation - "Same old thing" for New Yorkers
BLACK is back. The colour crowd may have had their way in the fashion world for the past few seasons, but Milan's designers know what sells, and it's black.
As the winter 2005 shows got going, some of the world's top labels proved that black need not be boring or bland.
Miuccia Prada confirmed her position at the top of the fashion pack when she sent out a series of winter coats that billowed around the body, showing wool need not be dull or dowdy.
"I'm waiting for Prada to have a bad season," said one British critic backstage after the show.
The collection was about tailoring and simplicity, decoration pared down to a sea of beads down the front of a chiffon shift dress, bronze eyelets studding a biscuit brown bag, a black feather shoulder cape over a hourglass dress.
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 09:52 AM
"Deadly Kids Jewelry" Are you paying for lead?
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - (KRT) - Claudia Gonzalez got a scare when a routine blood test in 2003 found that Lilliana, one of her 1-year-old triplets, had dangerous levels of lead.
Kansas City health inspectors suspected flaking house paint as the source. But then they stunned Gonzalez by asking to test the gold necklaces her three daughters wore - baptismal gifts from their godparents. Tests revealed the necklaces were loaded with lead.
"I did not expect that," said Gonzalez, who has put the icons safely away.
Because health officials caught the problem early, Lilliana's prognosis is good. But her experience reveals a frightening reality for all parents.
While lead-based paint remains the primary danger, health officials are increasingly warning that jewelry is among a wide range of seemingly mundane items posing serious lead poisoning risks.
"There may have been paint dust on the floor, but she (Lilliana) was so young that it is more likely her exposure came from mouthing the jewelry" she was wearing, said Amy Roberts, nurse and case manager for the Kansas City Health Department's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.
The scrutiny of jewelry as a potential lead poisoning threat comes as health officials are mounting aggressive efforts to rid the nation of this source of neurological and physical ailments by 2010.
The federal government estimates that 2.2 percent of children nationwide have toxic amounts of lead in their blood.
This month, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued new guidelines for importers and manufacturers of children's metal jewelry.
Under the policy, a piece of jewelry should not have lead content of more than .06 percent by weight, the same standard used for paint. Any piece that exceeds that level is subject to further testing and possible corrective action.
The tougher policy stems from the biggest recall in history of children's jewelry. Last July, more than 150 million pieces, found in more than 770,000 vending machines nationwide and in low-end discount stores, were recalled. The action followed reports of children having toxic responses to swallowing the jewelry.
Children are vulnerable to the cumulative effect of multiple sources of lead, said Scott Wolfson, a spokesman for the federal consumer safety agency.
Roberts said the problem extends to fine jewelry available at many retail outlets, including malls and jewelry stores.
She keeps a collection of bracelets, necklaces and rings, purchased at area stores, that all tested high for lead.
"Sometimes with lead poisoning it's hard to tell where it came from," she said. "But with little kids, it's easier. If they have a bracelet, they are putting it in their mouths. We now test gold I.D. bracelets and religious icons all the time. They inevitably come up high."
Lead is used in making jewelry because it is malleable and gives it heft. Gold plating isn't enough to contain the lead, which can leach out.
Health officials point out that you can't tell whether jewelry has lead in it just by looking at it. If you suspect it might, you can call the health department for advice on getting it tested.
Roberts said health officials also have found high levels of lead in the eyelets of baby shoes, and in cups and saucers, as well as in the paint on deteriorating porches and fence posts in older areas, including both poor and wealthy neighborhoods.
Such a wide variety of sources makes the accumulation of lead a bigger threat to younger children, who are prone to indiscriminately placing things in their mouths. There are no safe levels for lead in the body.
But anything above 10 micrograms per deciliter of blood is considered dangerous.
The effects of high lead levels include neurological damage, delayed mental and physical development, attention deficiencies and hearing problems.
Effects can be reversed if the poisoning is caught in time. So state and local health departments now have programs to test children before the age of 2, when lead poisoning is the easiest to detect. As children get older, lead poisoning is harder to diagnose because the lead more quickly deposits in the bones, where it can remain hidden for years.
"We want to find children before they are exposed to lead," said Melanie Scherer, a nurse with the public health department of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kan. "But if we can still catch it at these lower levels early, hopefully we can prevent permanent damage."
Joe Hamilton, 7, is one of the lucky ones.
Diagnosed with lead poisoning three years ago when his behavior suddenly became disruptive, the Kansas City, Kan., first-grader now is near the top of his class in reading. He began to improve shortly after his family moved to a different house from one in which health inspectors found large amounts of lead.
"It's frightening when you don't even know what's going on in your own home," said Tona Hamilton, Joe's mother.
Younger children are most susceptible because their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults' bodies, said Gary Wasserman, chief of medical toxicology at Children's Mercy Hospital.
In a child's immature system, the blood cells can't distinguish between lead and the necessary nutrients of calcium and iron. Blood carries the lead to the brain, where it wreaks havoc with the brain's ability to send messages.
"Across the country, health organizations have tried to eliminate lead poisoning because it is a preventable condition," Wasserman said. "Lead is one of the few substances the body has no need for, and yet it interferes with the enzyme systems of dozens of organs."
Although lead-based paint was banned after 1978, health officials estimate that in some ZIP codes 95 percent of the homes have lead-based paint.
Susan Thomas, coordinator for Missouri's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, said the number of affected children is falling.
Still, Thomas said, "there are a significant number of children we are finding with elevated blood levels. That's why we encourage the testing to be done at 1 or 2 years (of age)."
FIRST GLANCE
Children's jewelry can be a potentially dangerous source of lead exposure, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
As children get older, lead exposure is harder to detect, so health officials recommend blood tests before the age of 2.
THE PROBLEM OF LEAD POISONING
U.S. officials estimate that 2.2 percent of children nationwide have toxic levels of lead in their blood.
Local health officials estimate the number in the Kansas City area at 500 to 600 children.
What's new?
Lead-based paint remains the top poisoning threat, but other items can put children at risk, too. Among the culprits is metal jewelry that children can easily put in their mouths.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued new guidelines this month limiting the lead content of children's jewelry.
Children with elevated levels of lead in their blood can suffer damage to their brains and nervous systems, behavior and learning problems, slowed growth, hearing problems and headaches.
If you suspect your child has lead poisoning, call your family physician or a health clinic.
If you think your child's jewelry might contain lead, call your health department for advice on getting it tested.
Sources: Consumer Product Safety Commission and the EPA
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 09:40 AM
February 24, 2005
Did you get your LeBook? 2005 editions are out.
LE BOOK (New York 2005) in association with HERMES is in! View our page on LeBook's website. Of course if you can't get your hands on a copy you can see our ad in LeBook here. Beautifully shot by Matteo Trisolini.
New campaigns on the LeBook Site
Grégoire ALEXANDRE
Pal ALLAN
ART HOUSE MANAGEMENT
BALCONY JUMP photographic
Andréas BLECKMANN
Ada Bligaard SOBY
Erjan BORREN
BUREAU / Los Angeles
Dan BURN-FORTI
Simian COATES
Michel COMTE
COOL BANANA
Tom CORBETT
CREATIVE CHAOS
Joseph CULTICE
Ben DALLING
Laurent DARMON
Carlton DAVIS
Roger DECKKER
DEFRANCE
Serge DEROSSI
FACTORY ARTISTS
Rui FARIA
Paolo FERREIRA
Marco GLAVIANO
Charles GRIAK
Lars H
Gail HADANI
Peter HEBEISEN
Nicolas HIDIROGLOU
Nick IVINS
George KAVANAGH
Klass-Jan KLIPHUIS
Kutlu
David LAMBERT
Kent LARSSON
David LAWRENCE
Philip LEE HARVEY
Nella LOMBARDI
Greg LOTUS
Elliston LUTZ
Michelle MARSIDI
Christopher MICAUD
Milk studios
Thierry MONGE
Richard NEWMAN
John OFFENBACH
PAR 31
Oliver PIRO
Carl POSEY
Paul POSSE
Andy POTTS
Jo RATCLIFFE
Vava RIBEIRO
Erez SABAG
Lothar SCHMID
Norbert SCHOERNER
Stewart SHINING
Garry SIMPSON
Paul SMITH
Mark SQUIRES
Ben STOCKLEY
Bea SVENSSON
TONY JAY
Bill TURPIN
Jenny VAN-SOMMERS
VAPEURS
Julie VERHOEVEN
VUE
Kerstin WACKER
Walter SCHUPFER
S55DSL - SS 2005
ACQUA DI PARMA - 2005
ADIDAS - S 2005
ANGELA MARANI - SS 205
ANN TAYLOR - S 2005
ARMANI COLLEZIONI - S 2005
ARMANI EXCHANGE - S 2005
BALLY - SS 2005
BLUMARINE - BLUGIRL - SS 2005
BOSS by HUGO BOSS - SS 2005
BOTTEGA VENETA - SS 2005
BURBERRY - SS 2005
CALVIN KLEIN JEANS - 2004
CELINE - SS 2005
CESARE PACIOTTI - SS 2005
CHANEL - SS 2005
CHARLES by CHARLES DAVID - SS 2005
CHLOE - SS 2005
COVER GIRL 2005
CUSTO BARCELONA - SS 2005
DIESEL - THE FUTURE - SS 2005
DSQUARED - 2005
ECKO - SS 2005
EMANUEL UNGARO - SS 2005
EMINENCE - 2005
EMPORIO ARMANI - SS 2005
ETRO - SS 2005
FILIPPA KA - SS 2005
GAI MATTIOLO - SS 2005
GAP - PRETTY KHAKI - S 2005
GENERRA - S 2005
GEORG JENSEN - SS 2005
GERARD DAREL - SS 2005
GIORGIO ARMANI - SS 2005
GUERLAIN SHALIMAR - 2005
GUESS by MARCIANO - SS 2005
GUY LAROCHE - SS 2005
HARRY WINSTON - 2004
HERMES - SS 2005
HUGO by HUGO BOSS - SS 2005
ISSEY MIYAKE - SS 2005
JEAN PAUL GAULTIER - SS 2005
JOHN VARVATOS - SS 2005
KENZO - SS 2005
LA PRAIRIE - SILVER RAIN - 2005
LANCÔME - LOOK - SS 2005
LE BON MARCHE - 2005
LES COPAINS - SS 2005
LEVI'S RED TAB - SS 2005
L'OREAL GOLDEN GLOB AWARDS - 2005
MALO - SS 2005
MANGO - SS 2005
MARITHE & FRANCOIS GIRBAUD - SS 2005
MICHAEL KORS - S 2005
MILWAUKEE'S BEST - 2005
MISSONI SS2005
MIU MIU - SS 2005
MOSCHINO - SS 2005
MOSCHINO CHEAP & CHIC - SS 2005
NATORI - 2005
NIKE WOMEN - SS 2005
NINA RICCI beauty - 2005
PATRIZIA PEPE - SS 2005
PAULE KA - SS 2005
PEPE JEANS - SS 2005
PHILOSOPHY DI ALBERTA FERRETTI - SS 2005
PRADA - SS 2005
PREMIATA - SS 2005
REPLAY - SS 2005
SAKS FIFTH AVENUE - SAKS LOVE - S 2005
SISLEY - SS 2005
SONIA RYKIEL - SS2005
TO THE MAX - S 2005
VALENTINO - SS 2005
VERSACE - S 2005
VIVIENNE WESTWOOD - SS 205
WONDERBRA - S 2005
Y-3 - 2005
ZANOTTI - SS 2005
ZARA - SS 2005
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 11:00 AM
February 23, 2005
Fashion- Project Runway Ends Tonight!
Bravo's sleeper hit Project Runway ends its extended run with a two-hour finale tonight at 9 p.m. ET, and either Wendy Pepper, Kara Saun, or Jay McCarroll will receive $100,000 in seed money to start their own fashion line. The show's increasing ratings are likely due to its combination of bitchy interpersonal interaction and serious work; as Tim Gunn told the Chicago Tribune, "There's a level of true seriousness and purpose here." The clothes they'll present as part of their collections aren't exactly secret, since Fashion Week was a few weeks ago. Still, this is undoubtedly the most highly anticipated reality TV finale since the last highly anticipated reality TV finale.
n the New York Daily News, the three designers give us a taste of the catfights to come. Jay says Wendy "is delusional. She seriously thinks that everyone had a strategy on the show. There are parts of her I cannot fucking stand. She's a weirdo. Hopefully after this whole ordeal I'll never see her again." Wendy defends her behavior easily: "The point is to get rid of 11 people. If you want to call that villainous, you can, but I just call it realistic." And Heidi Klum says that all of this mirrors the industry: "Every morning we open up the trashy magazines and we rip each other apart."
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 01:44 PM
Reality TV NBC Markets "Survivor" with Pretty People
Not that we're very surprised but one of the first people voted off, Wanda, that weird singing lady, has revealed seven of the Survivors are professional models placed on the show by their casting agencies to "pretty up" the show.
Wanda tells TV Guide, "Out of the 20 people that were originally cast, they cut seven and put pretty people from modeling agencies in instead, so that they would have the eye candy. We found that out while we were there [in Palau]. When we asked [each other], 'What did you do for your audition tape?' some of the people would say, 'Oh, well, I didn't really do an audition tape.'"
So there you have it. Seven worthy human beings were! cast off in favor of bimbo factor. Perhaps the next Survivor should take a page from The Apprentice playbook and pit tribes against each other based on certain attributes. Perhaps, planted modeling agency pretty people could be pit against regular humans. Then, we'd finally know whether or not looks really have anything to do with survival.
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 01:21 PM
February 18, 2005
Meet Pierce Mattie at the The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association in San Francisco
Are you planning on launching a new fitness product this season? Or is your sportsclub restaging for consumer appeal? If so, be sure to book your complimentary PR consultation with fitness publicist; Pierce Mattie.
Saturday, March 19 from 9am to 5pm Pierce will be on site ready to speak with you about how you can increase your media presence.
Email RSVP@PierceMattie.com to reserve your time. Each consultation will take place at San Francisco's Moscone Center South @ 747 Howard Street, San Francisco, California 94103 USA.
IHRSA Schedule
TUESDAY, MARCH 15
9:00am-4:30pm · Pre-Convention Workshop
Building a Health Promotion Business or Product Line in a Health Club Setting
NEW! Michael O'Donnell, Ph.D., American Journal of Health Promotion
Pre-Registration Required; Additional Fee Applies
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16
8:30am-10:00am · Concurrent Sessions
8:30am-12:00pm · Workshop
30 Days to Success -- Guaranteed
» Mike Chaet, Club Marketing & Management
Pre-Registration Requested
8:30am-12:00pm · Tennis Forum
8:30am-4:30pm · Workshop
Group Fitness Management Seminar
Cathy Spencer Browning, Body Training Systems
Terry Browning, Body Training Systems
Sponsored by Body Training Systems
9:00am-5:00pm · Certification Exams
10:30am-12:00pm · Concurrent Sessions
11:00am-12:30pm · Fair Competition Open Forum (By Invitation Only)
12:30pm-1:30pm · Supplier Seminar
Profit from Active Metabolic Training
Stephen A. Black, MEd, PT, ATC/L, NSCA-CPT, Rocky Mountain HPC
Gary McCoy, MA, NASM, ACPT, Evolve Corporation
Sponsored by New Leaf Health & Fitness Products
1:00pm-2:30pm · General Session
The Power of Lifestyle Change
Dr. Dean Ornish, Preventive Medicine Research Institute
Presented by the American Journal of Health Promotion
[ACE 0.1 | NCSF 1]
1:00pm-2:30pm · Concurrent Supplier Seminars
Feed Your Group Exercise Bottom Line with Multi-Week 'Series' Programming
Jim Karanas, Club One, Performance Max
Mark Sutro, Performance Max
Jim Mizes, Club One
Sponsored by Concept2
The Shocking Truth: Lives are Being Saved by AEDs at Health Clubs
Sponsored by Philips Medical System
Whole Body Vibration Training
Power Plate - The 10-Minute Success: A cutting edge new modality to drive incremental revenues, increase member retention, and achieve real results
Guus Van der Meer, Power Plate International Sponsored by Power Plate North America
1:00pm-4:00pm · 1st Annual IHRSA Technology Summit
Generating Revenue & Enhancing Profitability Through Technology
Tom Harshbarger, Microsoft Corporation
Sponsored by CheckFree Health & Fitness
[ACE 0.3 | NCSF 1.5]
3:00pm-4:15pm · Concurrent Sessions
3:00pm-4:15pm · Independent Club Council (ICC) Meeting (By Invitation Only)
4:30pm-6:00pm · Industry Leadership Council (ILC) Meeting (By Invitation Only)
4:45pm-5:45pm · Concurrent Sessions
7:30pm-8:00pm · Get Active America! 2005 Rally
Last May over 150,000 Americans visited IHRSA clubs during the first Get Active America! week. Find out what's in store for the second edition of the important industry effort to promote physical activity and prevent obesity.
8:00pm-10:00pm · Opening Reception
ERIN GO BRAGH! Relax and raise a pint, as the spirit of Ireland overtakes you at IHRSA 2005! For you lads and lassies who think St. Patrick's Day festivities are full of paper shamrocks and green beer, get thee to the reception on Wednesday evening for some live Irish music and a pint of Guinness that will blend into a cocktail for great networking. No worries, the luck of the Irish is not required to enjoy!
Sponsored by CYBEX International and Creative Agency Group
THURSDAY, MARCH 17
6:30am-8:30am · Exercise Classes
7:00am-8:30am · Continental Breakfast
8:30am-8:45am · IHRSA Annual Meeting
8:45am-10:00am · General Session & Awards Presentation
Leadership, Management . . . and the Difference
General Tommy Franks (USA-Ret.)
Sponsored by Precor
11:00am-12:30pm · Concurrent Sessions
11:00am-1:00pm · Global Industry Summit
Magnetic Service: Creating Passionately Devoted Customers
Chip Bell
Presented by IHRSA & Life Fitness
(By Invitation Only)
1:00pm-6:00pm · Trade Show
1:15pm-2:45pm · 9th Annual IHRSA Financial Panel
An Updated Financial Outlook on the Club Industry
Moderated by Rick Caro, Financial Management, Inc.
Bob Hellman, McCown De Leeuw & Co.
Paul Hindsley, William Blair & Company
Paul Lejeuz, Credit Suisse First Boston
2:00pm-3:30pm · Concurrent Networking Open Forums & Sessions
4:00pm-5:00pm · Special Session
The Size & Scope of the European Market
Herman Rutgers, IHRSA
Karsten Hollasch, Deloitte & Touche GmbH
Sponsored by Technogym
4:00pm-5:30pm · Concurrent Networking Open Forums & Sessions
5:30pm-7:30pm · MACMA Member Reception
Thirsty Bear Brewing Company
(By Invitation Only; To RSVP Call 888-596-2262)
6:00pm-7:00pm · Florida Health Club Association (FHCA) Reception
Fourth Street Bar & Deli (at the San Francisco Marriott)
(By Invitation Only; To RSVP Call 813-964-9126)
6:30pm-8:30pm · New England Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (NEHRSA) Reception
Jillian's Billiards at the Metreon
(By Invitation Only; To RSVP Call 800-228-4772)
7:00pm-8:30pm · California Clubs of Distinction Member Reception
The Sports Club LA San Francisco
(By Invitation Only; To RSVP Call 888-313-1532)
7:00pm-9:30pm · Planet IHRSA Reception (Registered International Club Attendees Only)
7:30pm-10:00pm · IHRSA's Leadership Recognition Dinner
Grand Hyatt at Union Square
(By Invitation Only)
FRIDAY, MARCH 18
6:30am-8:30am · Exercise Classes & Early Morning Workout
7:00am-8:30am · Continental Breakfast
9:00am-10:30am · General Session & Awards Presentation
Creating Championship Teams
Phil Jackson
Sponsored by Technogym
11:00am-12:00pm · Concurrent Feature Presentations
Personal Finance Tips for Everyone
Jean Chatzky, Financial Editor, NBC's Today Show
Sponsored by Core Spinal Fitness System by MedX
Insight Selling
» Heather Shea Schultz, Canaan Consulting Group and former President/COO of The Tom Peters Company
Sponsored by Core Spinal Fitness System by MedX
Kill Darius!
Jay Singer, ACCESS Dynamics, LLC
Sponsored by the International Fitness Club Network (IFCN)
Metabolic Biochemistry & Anti-Inflammatory Sports Medicine: The Athletes' Unfair Advantage
Dr. Barry Sears
Dr. Stephen T. Sinatra
Sponsored by the Zone Café
Healthy Aging & the Compression of Morbidity: The Ultimate Goal of Health Promotion
Dr. James F. Fries, Stanford University
Presented by the American Journal of Health Promotion
Around the World in 90 Minutes
Panelists to be Determined
NOTE: This sesion is scheduled from 11:00am-12:30pm
11:00am-6:00pm · Trade Show
12:30pm-1:45pm · Networking Forum
Club Controller's Networking Forum
Anita Lawlor, IHRSA
Sponsored by CheckFree Corporation
(Pre-Registration Requested)
2:00pm-3:30pm · Concurrent Sessions
4:00pm-5:30pm · Concurrent Networking Open Forums & Sessions
4:00pm-5:30pm · Special Session
International Certification Standards Meeting
Moderated by Herman Rutgers, IHRSA
Additional Panelists to be Determined
5:00pm-7:30pm · ACE Member Forum / Town Hall Meeting
American Council on Exercise Achievement Awards
SATURDAY, MARCH 19
6:30am-8:30am · Exercise Classes & Early Morning Workout
7:00am-8:30am · Continental Breakfast
8:00am-10:00am · Special Session
International Session on Copyright Licensing
Moderated by Helen Durkin, IHRSA
Additional Panelists to be Determined
8:30am-12:00pm · Trade Show
9:00am-10:30am · Concurrent Sessions
1:00pm-2:00pm · Special Presentation!
Managing to Win!
Joe Theismann
Sponsored by GP Industries
2:30pm-3:30pm · Concurrent Sessions
7:00pm-10:00pm · Grand Finale!
Throughout the years you've shared experiences, knowledge and cultures with over 70 countries that attend the IHRSA International Convention. Now, come and enjoy several ethnic cuisines at IHRSA's closing reception as we give you a taste of the upcoming 25th Anniversary of IHRSA. Celebrate the industry once more before leaving the streets of San Francisco, as we look to meeting again on the Las Vegas strip, where IHRSA will plan to create an event to remember . . . the IHRSA 25th Anniversary . . . don't miss it!
For More Information . . .
T: 800-228-4772 U.S. & Canada | 617-951-0055 International
F: 617-737-3323
M: IHRSA Meetings Department, 263 Summer Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02210 USA
E: meetings@ihrsa.org
Posted by Stephen at 09:23 AM
P&G Recall
Proctor & Gamble says that it is developing a new formula for a baby balm it produces that has been linked to several cases of cramp. In the meantime, the product, which has sold 4 million jars since its launch in Europe back in 2001, will remain off shop shelves.
The company took the decision to withdraw the Vicks Baby Balm line from store shelves at the end of December after two babies in France were reported to have developed the symptoms by health authorities.
However, no clear link has been established to the product and both P&G and the health authorities have emphasised that both babies were suffering from pre-existing medical conditions.
P&G spokesman Kurt Weingand told a Reuters reporter: “There’s been no causal link reported between these two relevant health events and the coincidental use of baby balm,”
The French Regulatory Agency first brought the two medical cases to attention at the start of December, last year, alerting all relevant government authorities to what was perceived to be a potential medical hazard.
The authorities said that the balm, which contains both eucalyptus and camphor essential oils, had caused convulsions and cramping in the infants that had given rise to the need for medical treatment.
However the French health authorities considered the two babies’ symptoms to be so severe they recommended that P&G withdraw the product from shop shelves, pointing out that the use of essential oils, particularly camphor, is not advised for children of less than thirty months.
The product guidelines recommend that the balm is used on infants over the age of three months and is used as a relaxing massage rubs to soothe discomfort in a variety of minor infant ailments.
After agreeing to the demands of the French authorities P&G took the decision to withdraw the product from all European markets to avoid confusion. It now says that the new formula will contain lower levels of essential oils.
Posted by Stephen at 09:20 AM
The Pierce Mattie Publicist Photo shoot
The executive PR team at Pierce Mattie Public Relations underwent the image challenge of a lifetime. Each publicist (called brand advocates) was recently given a complimentary gym membership to New York Sports Club (NYSC). Partnering in teams with a workout buddy the publicists each lost over 10lbs, gained lean mass (muscle) and redefined their bodies.
Each advocate was then awarded a new wardrobe, complimentary tanning sessions at Hollywood Tans, and facials at Skin Care Lab. The "Makeover" was partially an incentive to “look great and do great in 2005.” "It's just one of the many things we're doing this year to improve the quality of life and the work we do for our clients" says Pierce Mattie. Pierce believes you can't honestly give something to others if you don't have or experience for yourself. "It's what being a leader is all about." The team celebrated their new look with a photo shoot by Vidura Barrios.
Vidura a Manhattan based celebrity photographer who has shot for Coca Cola and the New York Times spent the day exploring new looks and having fun photographing the team. Editorial hair and makeup artist for Cosmopolitan Magazine; Nackie Wing was responsible for the overall look of the team. While Chad Hayduk from Three Custom Color Specialists created color palettes for the publicists faces that matched their wardrobe.
Posted by Stephen at 09:10 AM
Move Over Propecia, Caffeine is Calling
A caffeine extract has proved to be an effective ingredient in a topical hair loss prevention shampoo treatment, research suggests. Believed to be the only remedy to use this ingredient, the makers claim that huge concentrations can help prevent testosterone from damaging hair growth.
German hair care specialist Alpecin Cosmetic has been selling hair and scalp treatment on the German market since 1930. However, it wasn't until 2000 that the company started marketing its After Shampoo Liquid hair loss remedy with a caffeine derived active complex contained in the ingredients.
"The caffeine complex was added to the product following extensive testing in our own laboratories," said Dr. Adolf Klaenk, director of research and development at the Dr. Kurt Wolff research laboratories, part of Aplecin Cosmetic. "Since the product was launched we have been conducting more comprehensive studies with university of Jena, of which the full results are about to be published in dermatological specialist publications."
The study results have found that the active caffeine ingredient helps to regulate the effects of testosterone levels. Male pattern baldness is known to occur on individuals with a sensitivity to testosterone, causing damage to hair follicles that eventually leads to baldness.
The independent study at the University of Jena used hair samples from the scalps of young men entering into the first stages of hormone-related hair loss. The study relied on a hair organ culture that used four different types of testing samples. The first was a nutrient-based sample, the second a testosterone only sample, the third was a caffeine only sample and the fourth a mixture of caffeine and testosterone.
According to the research, the results showed that the samples containing the caffeine nutrient helped to stave off hair loss and encouraged new hair growth hair re-growth, while the sample that relied on testosterone only led to increased hair loss. But perhaps the most impressive was the testosterone and caffeine sample, which helped to prevent further hair loss.
The results showed that using the caffeine treatment average growth was increased by around 46 per cent and the life cycle of the hair was extended by 37 per cent, when compared to the control study.
A company spokesperson said that the treatment is believed to be the only one of its kind to use caffeine as an active ingredient to prevent the loss of hair in men.
One of the ironies of the study results is that many medical experts and trichologists recommend that excessive oral intake of caffeine substances can increase levels of DHT in the body, which have been proven to stimulate testosterone levels, which in turn leads to hair loss.
Dr. Klaenk points out that other active ingredient include zin and niacin that, when combined with caffeine extract, help to produce the overall results.
Alpecin Cosmetic is a household name in its native Germany with its range of products have been traditionally used to treat a host of scalp ailments ranging from dandruff to itchy or irritated scalps. However, in more recent years it has gained an increasing reputation for its hair loss treatment.
Currently the company is expanding the roll out of the product in Europe and the Middle East. In the mainstay European market existing markets other than Germany include Austria, Switzerland, Italy and Poland, however bigger markets such as the UK and France have proved difficult to penetrate due to the company's size.
Posted by Stephen at 08:50 AM
Diana Ross signs up with MAC
US Cosmetics giant MAC has confirmed that singer Diana Ross has signed up to promote the company’s 2005 Beauty Icon launch. The deal comes after the singer allegedly postponed signing the contract because she was not happy with aspects of the new range.
MAC Global President, John Demsey. "Not only is she a global style icon but also a timeless and exquisite beauty. As a multi-talented performer who expresses her individuality through fashion and make-up, she's all that M.A.C admires."
In an official press release Ross said she was ’greatly looking forward’ to her association with the new product line.
But newspaper reports earlier on in the month suggested that the agreement has not all been plain sailing. An unnamed source told British newspaper The Sunday Mail that Ross had not liked the original names chosen for the product line and had decided to drop the deal as a result.
The source said that MAC, which is part of the Estee Lauder group, had already organised a huge launch campaign, adding that it would continue to negotiate with Ross in order to save the deal.
Aimed at women of colour, Beauty Icon is a complete make-up range formulated around the more individual make-up requirements of this category.
The range includes names that tie in with Ross’s celebrity status and singing career. Names such as Supreme and Fine and Mellow were chosen for the lip colours, the Diana lipstick range has names like Miss Ross, Forever Young and Stop! and the blusher powders are called Celebrity Pink and Mountain High.
Other ranges include pro Longwear Lipcolour, the Eye Kohl eyeliner and the Pro Lash mascara, together with the Hyper Real SPF 15 liquid foundation.
MAC says that the collection focuses on the pink and bronze/coral colour families and lustre-filled finishes. In addition to the essential colour collection for the eyes, lips and face, the company has created two shades of a special edition Beauty Powder in a pink-chromed compact, accompanied by a selection of short, pink-handled, pink-bristled brushes.
The make-up range will be backed by a global launch campaign during the course of the next few months.
Posted by Stephen at 08:47 AM
Musk Scent = Mussle Sensitivity
A scientific study has shown that artificial musk fragrance can increase sensitivity to toxins in mussels, indicating possible implications for human health. Simon Pitman reports on the findings and industry's reaction.
Synthetic musk fragrance is commonly used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care applications, including soaps, shampoos and skin care products. Although the compound has been proven as non-toxic, a study conducted on mussels by the US-based California Sea Grant has shown that it can have a cumulative effect in organisms, but that it can increase sensitivity to toxic agents in the environment.
The study, which was reported in the January edition of the journal of Environmental Health Perspectives, raises concerns that these very common household compounds may also pose unanticipated environmental risks.
Headed by professor David Epel from Stanford University, the study shows that mussels have a defense system that normally prevents toxins from entering cells. However, the research found that synthetic musks intensify the toxicity of other pollutants by interfering with proteins in the cell membranes.
Normally these proteins pump toxins out of the cells but when overwhelmed by foreign compounds such as the musk, toxins can begin to accumulate leading to cellular damage.
Synthetic musks do not degrade in sewage and are often pumped into the sea in significant amounts because they are commonly added to personal care products. This means that the compound often accumulates in a variety of marine life, although their non-toxicity has so far led to few concerns.
But one type of synthetic musk, xylene, has proved a particular exception to this rule. Human health concerns mean that its use has been discontinued in both Japan and Germany, but in the US it is still commonly used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, although not lipsticks and other such products that are easily ingested.
Epel’s experiments took into account six different types of synthetic musk on a particular type of mussel commonly found on the Californian coast. Exposure to varying levels of the compound found in polluted water was said to impair cell function for 24 to 48 hours.
Epel said this result was ‘troubling’ since it implies lasting environmental impact from polluted water.
Further to this Epel believes that these results have further implications for human life, as human cells use the same transporter mechanisms as mussels. This leads to the conclusion that exposure to musks in people might impair defense systems, which in turn increases the risk of exposure to normally excluded toxins.
”This is the first study to show that some personal care products do have an effect in water, even in low concentrations,” said Epel. ”Our results indicate that the effects on the first line of defense might be irreversible or continue long after the event. It’s a warning sign. It’s a smoking gun.”
Industry’s reaction to the study has been relatively muted. However, the Fragrance Materials Association in the US stated that testing carried out under lab conditions such as this is difficult to extend to human life and that there is very little evidence to support such a claim.
Posted by Stephen at 08:44 AM
Sara Lee to sell off cosmetics business
US and global consumer goods giant Sara Lee says it is planning to refocus its business operations by selling off its direct sales business for cosmetic, household and other consumer products.
The plan, which also includes aligning its European packaged meat business and its apparel business, aims to better position the company for future long-term growth. In conjunction with the plan, the company said that it had elected a new CEO, Brenda Barnes, who would be heading up the strategic plan.
The plan gives the company a new business structure divided into three groups: North American Retail, North American Foodservice and Sara Lee International, effective from 3 July 2005.
The re-organisation will mean that the company’s North American operations will be headquartered in one location – to be decided – while its European offices will be headquartered in Utrecht, Netherlands.
The move will also include the sale and spin-off of its European apparel business as well as its direct selling business, which currently generates sales of $450 million a year for apparel, cosmetic and household products . The direct sales business will then become a network of independent sales people operating in markets around the world, including Mexico, Australia, the Philippines and Japan.
”Under our transformation plan, we will concentrate our financial and management resources on a smaller number of business segments where we are well-positioned for substantial growth,” said Barnes.
”As a result, Sara Lee will undergo a significant portfolio change, pursuing the disposition of our businesses that do not fit with our strategic focus within food beverage or household product categories.”
Sare Lee, which currently has operations in 58 countries and markets products in some 200 nations, said that it intends to use the proceeds from the sales to fund investment in its growth businesses and to strengthen its existing balance sheet.
About the Sara Lee Personal Care Brand: Sanex
Sanex, spent the last 20 years developing products that you can rely on for keeping your skin clean and healthy. We offer a wide range of body care products from shower gel, deodorants, and body care lotions to creams, shampoos and shaving products in 25 countries around the world. Each product is created to cleanse, deodorize or moisturize while maintaining your body's natural balance of essential ingredients. That's why the international tennis community as well as other international sports organizations look to us for body care products that can cleanse without drying or damaging the skin or hair of today's athletes.
Posted by Stephen at 08:34 AM
Radio Reaches Deepest to Upscale College Grads
According to the latest total radio listening estimates compiled by the radio network and national audience measurement service of Arbitron, radio retained its position as a mainstay medium over the past year, reaching demographics in all locations. Initial findings indicate that, over the course of a typical week, radio reached 95 percent of Persons 18+ who live in a household with an income of $75,000 or more. Ninety-five percent of college grads listened to radio, as compared to only 92 percent of people who did not go to college. Eighty-two percent of Persons 18+ listened to radio while in their cars; 25 percent listened at work.
Get all the facts by visiting Arbitron
Posted by PMPR Sr. Analyst at 08:33 AM
New Luxury Resort Hotel AKA "Hitler hotel"
Berlin: A contentious new luxury hotel will open next month on the site of Adolf Hitler's retreat in the German Alps, the Bavarian government said yesterday.
Hitler's haunt above the town of Berchtesgaden served as a part-time seat of government where he and other Nazi leaders often met to plan Germany's assault on Europe and the Holocaust.
The US military used the area as a resort after World War 2, before handing it back to Germany in 1996. - Sapa-AP
Posted by PMPR Sr. Analyst at 08:25 AM
Jennifer Lopez launches new fragrance, that makes three!
Jennifer Lopez has launched her third fragrance, Miami Glow by JLo, at her first ever runway show, which also promotes her new fashion line, Sweetface.
Miami Glow is tropic-cool meets blazing sun with a hot cocktail vibe, all its own. A sexy blend of tropical fruits, shimmering floral notes, and sultry amber and musk, this sensual scent is as hot as it’s namesake, and comes adorned with a colorful beach bracelet finished with a bronzed flip-flop charm.
Notes:
Passion Fruit, Coconut Water, Black Currant, Orange Flower, Heliotrope, Sun-Baked Sand, Amber, Vanilla Orchid, Crustal Musk.
Style:
Tropical. Sexy. Hot.
The fragrance is said to have been inspired by the US city of the same name. “For me it’s the essence of Miami captured in a bottle,” said Lopez.
Jennifer Lopez has used her image as a leading pop star and actress to front a series of products, including clothing lines, restaurants as well as fragrances.
Lopez moved into the world of fragrance with the launch of Glow by JLo in 2002, which was followed by Still Jennifer Lopez. As with the other two launches, Lopez has teamed up with Lancaster, part of the global Coty group, which specialises in licensing agreements for fragrances.
Coty currently has a portfolio of fragrance and fashions brands that include leading names such as Davidoff, Jil Sander, JOOP!, Nikos, Vivienne Westwood, Kenneth Cole.
In September of last year, Coty also announced another marketing agreement with Baby Phat to develop and market a series of fragrances using the name, which is synonomous with the ‘urban market’.
The US runway show, which was attended by 700 guests, featured leading fashion names such as Naomi Campbell, to promote both the new clothing line and the fragrance. Both Bernd Beetz, CEO, Coty, and Catherine Walsh, SVP Cosmetics & American Licences, Lancaster Group Worldwide, attended the show to oversee the fragrance launch.
The event will also be broadcast as a one hour-long MTV special, ‘Jennifer Lopez: Beyond the Runway’, which will show footage of Lopez's hands-on approach to developing her fragrance. The show is set to air in the US on Thursday, February 24.
Miami Glow by JLo is said to be a tropical cocktail full of the scents of lush fruits, fresh flowers and sun-baked sand – fragrances that are said to be synonemous with the city itself.
The fragrance will be launched in stores internationally during the the course of February 2005.
Posted by PMPR Sr. Analyst at 07:52 AM
February 17, 2005
Too Much Of A Good Thing? Petrossian Gets Bedazzled
Never! Petrossian Boutique and Café has a gift that is after my own heart. One that sparkles more then Paris Hilton's phone. Petrossian has produced a limited edition of 500 Swarovski crystal encrusted and gold caviar tin. The limited edition Swarovski caviar tin is available at both Petrossian Boutique and Cafes; 182 W 58th St, or 911 7th Avenue. Call 212-245-2217 for availability.
Posted by at 08:20 AM
February 15, 2005
Why mess with Success? Why redesign your brand?
It seems Irish eyes have long been smiling—managers of Diageo plc’s Baileys Irish Cream have had an enviable franchise for the following reasons:
1. Globally, Baileys has been the most successful new spirits entry in the last 30 years.
2. The brand has had double-digit growth in the United States the past three years.
3. Baileys is the No. 1 cordial in the world, supplanting Westport, CT-based Allied Domecq Spirits USA’s Kahlúa in January 2004.
Yet, it was decided that the current design, the fifth redesign since the launch of the brand in 1974, was much needed.
For one thing, a number of products had since entered the Irish cream category with designs that tended to mimic Baileys packaging. Thus, by default, Baileys had became another “me too” in the category.
“It needed to be contemporary, engaging, and stand out on the shelf,” explained Diageo brand director Barry Sheridan, speaking at the Market Research for Package Design conference. Sponsored by the Institute for International Research, the conference was held last fall. “However, we needed to maintain the brand’s authenticity, heritage, and quality.”
Baileys Before Redesigned Baileys
Months of internal and consumer testing conducted on three continents revealed “significant” design-related issues, centering on the fact that the brand was perceived as old-fashioned.
Diageo felt that the original bottle shape, which was portly, was viewed as stodgy, and that the label appeared cluttered and “fussy.”
Landor Associates was chosen to develop the new design.
Key changes in design were the following:
• A slender, more curvaceous bottle design topped by a new cap design that carries the familiar R.A. Bailey signature of authenticity.
• A more contemporary embossed bottle seal adorns the bottle.
• The eye-catching logo has been given more prominence and the Celtic weave background pay’s homage to the brand’s Irish roots.
• New “flowing silk” motifs replace the traditional landscape scene to offer a contemporary expression of the brand’s heritage and capture the warm sensuality of the product.
Diageo unveiled the stylish, contemporary new look in spring 2004 in the United Kingdom, and rollout continues globally. Bailey’s managers did not consider a test market because of the thoroughness of their prelaunch testing.
Some elements remained untouchable, such as the eyebrow logo, the words “original Irish cream,” and the R.A. Bailey signature.
Sheridan said that of all the elements that were changed, the toughest to let go of was the landscape imagery. Unfortunately, with the debut of other Irish creams on store shelves, that imagery had become clichéd, he says. “Others came in and made our current design generic to the category,” said Sheridan.
“We married key rational and emotional elements better in the new design,” said Gabriel Sciallis, Diageo’s consumer planning and research manager. “The new design is seen as more sophisticated, passionate, and mysterious.”
The new look is used on 10 sizes globally from 50 mL to 1.75 L, of which six sizes are sold in the United States. With the exception of the 50-mL size, which is PET, all are glass.
Diageo has high expectations for the brand: Sales that stand at 74 million bottles are expected to soar to 120 million bottles by 2007. Much of that will be attributable to current users increasing their frequency of enjoying Baileys rather than new users. Those numbers should keep managers’ Irish eyes smiling.
Posted by PMPR Analyst at 08:55 AM
February 14, 2005
Is Your Public Relations Reaching People Emotionally?
See Our Team Of "Love Junkies"
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 01:26 AM
February 13, 2005
Presentation Tips -from the Creative Director
Most people use computer programs such as Microsoft PowerPoint (Windows and Mac) or Keynote (Mac) for professional presentations. If you do:
A. Stay simple. Avoid wild colors and flowery foo-foo fonts. If you don't have a identity guideline manual that calls for a specific font for your brand then I would always use Times New Roman or Arial.
B. A slide should be on the screen for at least 10 seconds and no more than two minutes. Don't let an old thought remain on screen.
C. Break up a slid that is too long. Combine slides that are too short.
D. Stand close enough to the computer so that you don't have to jump back and forth to advance the slides.
E. Never use your slides as notes. Your slides should summarize your comments. You drive the presentation NOT THE SLIDES. Know your material.
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 10:36 AM
Public Speaking - Five Pillars Of Success
(1). Start planning early.
(2). Believe in your presentation.
(3). Create realistic expectations and limitations for yourself.
(4). Always offer something new to your audience.
(5). Practice, practice, practice.
Posted by Steve Hultgren at 10:03 AM
February 12, 2005
The Guide to all things chic -Fashion Net
This weeks Pierce Pick is Fashion Net, a chic site filled with info and images related to luxe living, shopping, art and work. Go surf this delicious site and enjoy!
Posted by at 06:44 PM
Updates on luxury fashion brands
Everyone is talking about The Gates at Central Park (Christo and Jeanne-Claude) See Photo or Fashion Week. God I love textiles, both very inspiring! We had a few events at fashion week but totally missed any opportunity to "event" the art exhibit at Central Park. Perhaps some things are off limits to publicity. I hope you all got a chance to get out and enjoy these spectacular "New York events."
Posted by at 04:40 PM
What's New - Eyetracking
We're excited to launch version 3.0 of Pierce Mattie Public Relations (our new website for 2005) It will strut an updated, cleaner and more modern look. We are also implementing technology based on eyetools eyetrack technology research to improve user experience. Marketing Sherpa is hosting a free teleconference on Tuesday, Feb. 15 at 2 pm EST to demonstrate the results of their new Landing Page Eyetracking Study.
Posted by PMPR Sr. Analyst at 03:59 PM
February 11, 2005
Parlux LOVES XOXO
Parlux Fragrances has acquired exclusive worldwide licensing rights relating to the XOXO fragrance brand, in a move that aims to re-launch the high-end brand in time for Valentines day gift buying.
Parlux said it acquired the rights to manufacture and distribute the fragrance lines from Victory International, which owns the US-based XOXO retailer.
The XOXO fragrance is due to be re-launched in the beginning of February in major US department stores, with an international roll out shortly thereafter. Parlux said that inancial terms of the agreement would not be disclosed.
Ilia Lekach, Chairman and CEO of Parlux called it a synergistic acquisition, adding that it would compliment the recent successful introduction of the Paris Hilton fragrance in the US.
“XOXO will increase our presence in department and specialty stores and provide us with important economies of scale." Lekach said, "I am pleased that we were able to fund this transaction entirely from our own cash reserves without the need to utilise our existing credit facility."
Parlux Fragrances, is a manufacturer and international distributor of prestige fragrances and has built an increasingly successful business portfolio through a series of brand association deals with high profile stars of both the acting and sporting world, as well as with a number of fashion houses.
As well as Paris Hilton, Parlux holds the licenses to manufacture and distribute the designer fragrance brands of Perry Ellis, Ocean Pacific, GUESS, Paris Hilton, Maria Sharapova, Andy Roddick, and Fred Hayman Beverly Hills.
Florida-based Parlux signed up fashionists and celebrity Paris Hilton to promote its fragrance brand in June of last year. By October the company was reporting that the successful launch had already had a positive impact on its financial performance and it doubled the number of retail outlets where the fragrance is available.
In November, the company announced third quarter sales were up 12 per cent to $18.25 million (€13.81m), with profits up 69 per cent to $2.37 million, results that were said to be strongly influenced by sales of the Paris Hilton fragrance.
Posted by Stephen at 08:54 AM
February 09, 2005
Idea resources for special events and beauty editor meetings
My Inspiration Tip-Of-The-Week, For all of you looking for inspiration for your next mini-event look to BizBash as ripe inspiration resource
Posted by at 06:32 PM
Super Bowl one stop AD shop
I didn't actually watch the big game on Sunday, my tivo got a workout and I spent most the time socializing with friends around town. I was informed by my marketing consultant that ifilm is hosting all the Super Bowl commercials for those of you without digital recorders. Just a quick tip passed on to those who understand the importance of being well informed around the water cooler!
Posted by at 05:44 PM
February 08, 2005
The Viral Awards 2004 benefiting The Food Bank for New York City
On February 15 at the Museum of Contemporary Art, the now corporation will host The Viral Awards 2004 benefiting The Food Bank for New York City. Awards will be given for "the most infectious North American viral." Finalists for Most Infectious North American viral include Burger King for Subservient Chicken by Crispin Porter & Bogusky, MTV for Instructoart by Matt Vescovo, Scienceworld for Boardroom by Rethink Advertising, Napster for Venables by Bell and Virgin Atlantic for Haircut by Crispin Porter & Bogusky. See the official Viral Ad Awards site here
We're bringing this new award show from London to NYC and our North American Jury see the list of North American Jury below is awarding Gold Silver and Bronze prizes to "the most infectious North American viral" Party location to soon be revealed...celebrating viral word of mouth buzz advertising
And we're announcing the Hall of Fame inductees
And it's a fundraiser for The Food Bank For New York City
get tickets at http://thenowcorporation.com
212 367 7701
yeah, it' the now corporation.
awards screening open bar dj more
100% of the money collected from ticket sales is being donated
to the Food Bank for New York City by the now corporation
Location of party to be revealed soon...
GOLD SILVER and BRONZE
to be announced Feb 15th !
A sample of the winners previously announced:
2004 Viral Award Winners
Best Campaign
Trojan Games The Viral Factory
Best Use of Humor
MTV Instructoart Matt Vescovo
Best Writing
Burger King Angus Intervention Crispin Porter + Bogusky
Best Art Direction & Design
BT Where Did the Time Go Agency.com
Most Creative Use of Technology
Burger King Subservient Chicken Crispin Porter + Bogusky
Word of Mouth
Mastercard Priceless McCann Erickson
Best Charity Viral
Global Rich List
The North American Jury
Owen Plotkin Chair the North American Jury the now corporation
Kirk Souder President E C D Publicis & Hal Riney San Francisco
Jason Gaboriau Creative Director Amalgamated NYC
Paul Lavoie Chairman & Chief Creative Officer Taxi
Greg Popp SVP Group Executive Producer DDB/Chicago
Fred & Farid Goodby Silverstein & Partners San Francisco
Roger Camp Creative Director Wieden and Kennedy Portland
Ian Grais Creative Director Rethink Vancouver B.C.
Brian Beletic Director Smuggler
Matt Vescovo Founder Instuctoart
Patrick Milling Smith Executive Producer/Founder Smuggler
Jim Hanas Editor Adcritic
Philip Detchmendy Executive Producer Tool of North America
Jeff Benjamin Interactive CD Crispin Porter Bogusky
Gregg and Evan Spiridellis JibJab
Mike Monello Director/Producer Haxan
Steve Wax Executive Producer/Partner Chelsea Pictures
Rae Ann Fera Acting Editor/Associate Editor Boards Magazine
Posted by PMPR Analyst at 06:14 PM
February 07, 2005
Why Didn't I think of that! A Blog Monitoring Service
We'll all be watching Steve and expecting good things. Read all about the service below. For those of you who want to do your analysis and monitoring many free blog aggregators are available to help glean the best of what blogs have to offer.
http://www.hebig.org/blogs/archives/main/000877.php#000877
I am very pleased to announce that today I became an "intrapraneur." CooperKatz & Company, my employer, is launching a new practice that will carry the Micro Persuasion brand. You can read the full details on our first service offering in this press release we’re issuing today. My blog remains a personal site, however CK is borrowing the name because we feel it has incredible equity and it best expresses our vision.
The initial Micro Persuasion service will have a laser-like focus on helping companies listen. Subsequent launches will help them engage, influence and empower consumers. As my regular readers know, I believe that active listening is the most essential skill a company must learn in a world where we the consumers now are the media. At CooperKatz & Company we believe that this represents a tremendous opportunity for savvy companies to establish a transparent dialogue with constiuents in ways that were not possible before.
As part of our new service we will dig in and conduct a thorough audit a client’s overarching issues and vulnerabilities, develop a preparedness plan that might include the creation of special blogs, watch and closely analyze weblogs and other consumer-generated channels such as photo-sharing and link-sharing sites for bubbling issues, and strategize ways for clients to openly engage online audiences in a dialogue about their concerns. It's very consistent with what I wrote about last week.
We're very excited about the corporate potential in social media. We also see a clear role for a PR firm with our deep expertise to analyze the chatter and provide counsel and are pleased to be packaging this all in a branded service that will help clients converse in a human voice. Stay tuned for more Micro Persuasion services in the months ahead!
Posted by at 05:58 PM | TrackBack
February 04, 2005
TV Viewers Scan Channels and Multitask
A Knowledge Networks study of television viewing habits shows that primetime TV viewers increasingly switch channels, multitask while watching, and personally select the programs they see. A comparison to earlier studies using the same methodology indicates dramatic changes in the primetime viewing experience over the past 10 years.
David Tice, Knowledge Networks' Vice President, said "Primetime television is still a powerful presence in consumers' daily lives, but ... the television audience is searching for more ways to control the viewing experience, to make a place for TV as part of their increasingly hectic lifestyles."
The report, "How People Use Primetime TV 2004", shows that:
* 41% of primetime viewers turn on the TV to watch a specific show "most of the time"
* 45% of primetime TV viewers are watching TV by themselves, versus 31% a decade ago*
* 47 percent of viewers switch channels during some part of a program
* most commonly because a program ends or to skip a commercial
* as compared to 33 percent in 1994
* the proportion of viewers doing other things, such as talking, snacking or reading while watching primetime TV, has increased slightly since 1994, from 67% to 75%
* one third of primetime viewers watch primetime TV out of their homes at least once a week, most commonly at friends' or relatives' homes
* 47% percent of the respondents believe that primetime advertising is better than other daypart advertising at making them aware of new products
* videogame use during primetime increased from 1 percent to 6 percent in the past ten years.
* Comparisons to 1994 are for the 8PM-9PM hour only
Get more information like this at mediapost.com
Posted by PMPR Analyst at 10:44 AM | TrackBack
February 01, 2005
Top Five Global Brands
Apple
Google
Ikea
Starbucks
Al Jazeera
Source: 2004 BrandChannel.com Reader's Choice survey
WHAT'S THE MOST POWERFUL BRAND IN NEWS? HINT: IT'S NOT FOX NEWS, OR EVEN CNN - You could argue whether Apple Computer was truly the most influential brand worldwide during 2004. You could even question whether Google, Ikea or Starbucks deserved to be among the globe's top five. But the emergence of Al Jazeera as the fifth most influential consumer brand in the 2004 edition of BrandChannel.com's annual Reader's Choice survey says something about the nature of branding, as well as the world we live in. Not only did the Arabic satellite TV news channel beat out such former global brand powerhouses as Coca-Cola, Sony and Toyota, it left all other media brands in the dust, including the likes of more established news brands like CNN or the BBC.
Get the who;e story:
http://www.mediapost.com/dtls_dsp_Trad.cfm?fnl=050131