Looking ahead

This is probably the cliche post everyone throws up at the last minute on the last day of blogging, but whatever.  I'm just so so so relieved to have finally figured out what I want to do with my life!  Everything this semester really opened my eyes to who I am and what I am capable of in advertising and journalism.  I even know where I want to go after I graduate - well if law school or grad school doesn't work out :)  And now I'm going to be even more predictable and say that my intro to creativity class helped me realize all I want to accomplish in my life.  It inspired me to never let my ideas go unnoticed, and to never be afraid to take chances in my work - no matter how horrible they may seem at first.  It made me even more excited to find out that this class applied not only to advertising but to journalism as well.  They really should offer classes like this in other degrees, I think people who hate their major a lot less after taking a class filled with building random machines and branching off into space on different ideas.

Overall, this class really opened my eyes up to the type of person I am.  I'm no longer afraid to express myself in a group of people, and I'm definitely more confident in all my work.  I even got more creative drawing little cartoons in the margins of m notes!  So with this class behind me and another set of classes on the horizon, I can only hope my next group of classes will be this much fun.  I mean - account planning is creative right?

Gone, but not forgotten

It seems that every year something happens somewhere in the world that draws attention to the people who survived the event.  Whether it be a war, the Holocaust, 9/11, a typhoon, car accident, school shooting - whatever, there are always survivors remaining to tell their stories.

But what happens when all the survivors of a particular event die?  Or even worse, what if there are no survivor to tell what really happened?  This is becoming the case with victims from the Holocaust.

As time goes on, people die, memories fade, and time moves forward... for some.  What remains then though is the memory of these people.  So the question is, does someone or something ever really disappear for good?  I mean sure, people come and go through our lives, days blue together, and months turn into years, but events that truly had an impact on us never really leave.  We still reflect on events that we either witnessed first-hand or through the TV, and we still recall hearing about WWI and other occurances way before our time.

So as people fear that when a group of people die, everything they brought will never be lost.  People, events, places, and time live on in our memory forever, even if the specific element is gone.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2008-05-01-Holocaust_N.htm

I love Mom's boobs

Since when did it become the norm for almost everyone in our society to succumb to the pressure of going under the knife for cosmetic surgery?  There's a huge difference between getting plastic surgery to fix a broken nose, or even out an injured person's entire body.  But having a knife wielded around your face for the sake of making your nose thinner, your boobs bigger, and your ass tighter has come to be the newly accepted thing.

Things have even go so far now as to prep children for when Mommy comes home with watermelons under her shirt instead of blueberries.  I mean if my mom waltzed in the house flaunting a chest 10 lbs heavier than a few days ago I would freak out.  Even today... ya, I would still freak out.  Never fear - in Michael Salzhauer's new book "My Beautiful Mommy" children are prepared for the new arrival of mom and the twins, some lipo, anew nose, and maybe even a tummy tuck.

So I get the whole idea of this surgeon just wanting to sell more money and hopefully rack up a few more million doing work on moms who love his book, but really?  Some children who's moms are getting these surgeries aren't even old enough to read.  I for one would be freaked out if when I was a kid my mom came in to read me a book about getting some saline solution injected in her, and then the next day I can't even lay on the couch with her because her chest took over the love seat.  Not to mention - children don't know the first thing about surgical enhancements.  They notice it happened, but do children really want to know (or should they) what really happened to Mommy in those few hours she was gone last Friday?

Parents should be responsible enough to explain to their children what they are doing to themselves before taking the final step.  If parents need a book to explain to their children the details of plastic surgery, maybe they are the ones who need a book about what they are doing to themselves since they obviously cannot explain it to their children in their own words!

OMFG! GET OVER IT!

I really don't see why everyone is freaking out about Gossip Girls new ad "OMFG."  Come on people, when was the last time you walked down the street and DIDN'T hear the F bomb?  I'm guessing it probably dates back to a few years ago.  And besides, lets be honest here - if the campaign was simply "OMG" people wouldn't notice.  And last time I checked... oh ya... produces WANTED their shows to get noticed.

Maybe I'm overreacting in thinking this isn't a BFD, but that's the type of content that sells these days.  It may be sad, but the truth sometime stings.  Besides, little girls who find this slogan offensive should not be watching the show anyway.  Now I realize this cannot be controlled, but hey if they are watching the show, seeing or hearing those four words is not going to be a shock.

Maybe it's because I'm older, but the last time I said OMFG I was at dinner with my mom and she laughed... I guess she was happy I didn't actually let the F word slip pass my lips... but she definitely found today's new abbreviations entertaining.  I'll agree that it is somewhat unfortunate that our culture has resulted to such extreme forms of advertising, it really isn't fair to cast blame on the agencies.  Rather, it is our own faults that we have let our culture develop into such a derogatory state.  It's completely acceptable for girls to call each other sluts and bitches as a compliment, and guys are praised for how many girls they sleep with in a month.  Media is just putting what we do behind closed doors on a screen... it's not their fault we've done a great job of supplying them with an unlimited amount of material. 

If parents are so concerned about their children's sensitivity, they need to take a peek between the blinds and observe the neighbors and even their own children to catch a glimpse of what reality has evolved into.

It might be shocking, but really we have no one to blame but ourselves.  More to Norway if you want a more sheltered life.

We almost all died? What!?

It's crazy to think of the world with no humans on it, but it almost happened 70,000 years ago according to a study from Stanford.  About 70,000 years ago, there were about only 2,000 humans on earth - mostly centered around Africa. The reason? Drought.  So what would the world be like without humans to keep things in order?

Would animals take over?  I mean we credit monkeys with demonstrating similar human traits, but can they run the world? If this were to ever happen, what would become of society?  I personally think the earth would crumble because no one would be around to take care of it.  Some would argue that there would be nothing to take care of, but if we all just disappeared one day, we better believe there would be side effects left in our wake.  Who would be in charge of controlling harmful substances being released into the atmosphere?  Who would take responsibility of all other things left in existence?  This may be a little far-fetched, but I don't think the world would still exist if human disappeared.  I know it survived until we came along, but it was reduced to dust and some plants.

Today, there are more than 6.6 billion people in the world, but yet there's still chaos.  So where is the balance?  Would you rather live in a world with too many people, or one where there's a shortage of humans?

X Ray vision

Ever since 9/11 it's easy to recognize that our privacy has been invaded by the government. Security at airports is the perfect example. These people search through ever little zipped up pocket in your carry-on luggage, and then lecture you to death when you accidentally forget to take a tube of chapstick out of your pocket. Not only do they then proceed to search you, but any information they ask you, no matter how personal, you are required to give them or else you might as well turn around and go home - there's no way they will let you on the plane if you're withholding information.

But now, there's another way to spy on the public! Scientists in London have invented a camera that can see through someone's clothing. Now before all the guys go "wow that's cool" let's think about this a little more...

Scientists have justified this new technology as another way to protect against terrorists, but really? Is scanning crowds of people to see what's beneath their clothes really appropriate? Wouldn't it be easier to just use this camera on people who seem suspicious? I don't understand the point in using this new technology when everyone knows it's going to cause people to feel their privacy is being invaded even more.

I don't think it's fair that the government puts this new spy technique into effect without first alerting the public to the idea that cameras can now see through their clothing.  If we are supposed to be able to fully trust the government, then they need to alert us to new technologies that while they are helping keep us safe, can also be a very big inconvenience on people's lives.

For more information about this new camera, visit:  http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/04/16/camera.england/index.html

Let It Be - Across the Universe

One of the most powerful movie scenes I have ever witnessed...

Don't doubt the little guys

After seeing this ad in class and hearing Young and Rubicam made it I was very surprised. Y & R is a monolith - not really an agency known for producing such unique and popular work. Seeing this ad and learning it came from such a cookie cutter mold of an agency opened my eyes to something new though. You can't doubt the little, lesser known guys in an industry.

Just because Young and Rubicam doesn't have the reputation of say Wiedan and Kennedy, doesn't mean it's not capable of producing such amazing work. Or just because a kid happens to be the shortest and skinniest guy on the basketball team doesn't mean he's not the fastest and most agile athlete. It's because of these common misconceptions that our society continues to be criticized for judging those around us so harshly and missing out on some great opportunities.

If we continue to underestimate our competitors, sooner or later they are going to surpass us. Just because Y & R isn't known for producing the best ads doesn't mean it never will. The "crazy" ad blew people's minds when they saw the work the agency was capable of.

Maybe it's time we start paying a little more attention, and respect, to the little guys we encounter on a daily basis.

Hide and Seek

You know the movie "I Know What You Did Last Summer?" I think they need to make a sequel called "I Know Where Everyone Lives."

In my reporting class today my professor showed up the Dallas appraisal website that can direct you to anyone in the Dallas area's address. So say for instance you wanted to find out where that professor who gave you an "F" on your midterm lives, all you would have to do is type in his or her last name, and VOILA! The address pops up. The site is even knind enough to connect you to Mapquest directions, leading you from one doormat to the next. Ya... creepy.

When I first saw this, I thought it had to be illegal, but apparently home owner's records are public records. This means ANYONE can access where you live if they know your last name.

Now what about that physco ex boyfriend from high school who still calls you? Ya, bad news, he can find you too!

But wait, it gets even better! There's a website that can also give our your phone number. Someone could type your phone number in, and up pops your full name and address (map directions included).

So why doesn't the government do anything about this? My professor explained that this is all public information, and once you buy a house, apartment, business complex, whatever, that information is fair game to the public.

I've always been relatively careful about giving my phone number to people, but rarely do I give out my address. It's not exactly a relief to know this information is already available online if the person knows my name. I guess in such a technology dependant industry, we can't be too surprised that all this information has leaked... but what I want to know is, what can we do? I guess I can have my number blocked... but people would still have it. I can move... but my new address would shortly be available.

I guess in today's world we just have to adjust to this new wave of available information, and accept the fact that our whereabouts are constantly being narrowed down.

Ethics

After reading the article by Jelly Helm I had mixed emotions about the various topics he discussed. While I do agree that advertising has led to an increase in our society's needs and desires, it is not solely responsible for turning us into over-consumers who seem to care nothing about the environment. Advertising is no different that observing our personal surroundings. Think about it, we go into malls are are overwhelmed by people toting designer bags and showing off designer jeans. While this could be considered a form of advertising, the agencies cannot ultimately be held responsible for our purchases. They simply suggest and point out new and exciting products, but never do they force us to purchase something.

I do agree that targeting lower classes is unfair, but advertising cannot be blamed for this. A lot of these people do not know the difference between a Louis Vuitton handbag and a Target clutch. If we presented two print ads to these people - one from each brand mentioned above - there is no guarantee the lower class would immediately choose the more expensive Louis. We can blame advertising for making the lower class feel inferior, but in reality, and this may sound very rude, they probably don't know the difference, and would be happy to just receive the product.

As for the three suggestions mentioned at the end, I do not agree with the suggestion to promote only those products that benefit humans. Every one seeks different benefits from different products. If advertisers were to determine what is beneficial vs. what is not, many popular products would cease to exist in advertising. There is no fair way to distinguish between what is and what is not considered beneficial to everyone.

Second, I do not think advertisers needs establish guidelines to prevent reckless spending. It is not the responsibility of the agencies to control the spending habits of humans. If we see an ad showing off a $5,000 pair of shoes - then let someone buy it! Agencies should not feel guilty for advertising an expensive product just because the majority of society cannot afford it. We may not really need everything we buy, but everyone can admit that without some of their favorite luxury items they would be much less satisfied.

Third - I do not agree with the idea of eliminating advertising to children under 12 years old. Even if children are not directly targeted by advertising as they grow up, he second they go in public they will be subjected to various products, brand names, and other endorsements just by the people around them. There is no realistic way to control that young children will live an ad-free life until they are 13.

In response to "Beyond Obligation" I do somewhat agree that clients and agencies should take it upon themselves to serve in the best interest of people, but it is not their sole responsibility to protect society. Agencies should be free to advertise a product how they see fit (within reason of not using extreme measurements). The issue of stereotypes falls into this category. I agree agencies need to be careful when creating how a message is to be interpreted, but it seems that everyone falls into a negative stereotype today - and most are now laughed about when portrayed in the right light. We cannot continue to blame agencies for using stereotypes that we so often joke about. There's not difference than talking about them with friends than seeing them in a magazine.

People are going to always interpret messages on a different level, and it's impossible for agencies to determine what will and won't offend the masses. Catering to one group discriminates against another - no matter what the final decision comes down to, someone will be offended and controversy will surround it. 

Rather than it being in the hands of the agency to shelter humans from what may or may not be ethical, society needs to accept our culture as what it is - an array of ideas, beliefs, and products that are tailored to appeal to a variety of people - not just one single consumer.

Boo, you whore!

When did it become acceptable for women to call each other a slut, bitch, whore, skank, and any other derogatory name?  Let alone, when did it become acceptable to shout this in public in the form of a compliment.  Girls take "you dance like a ho" as a compliment, and "you look like a slut" translate to "you look hot."  Appalling.  I guess though, all girls do it.  But why has this form of flattery developed?  Back in the "old days" these words were barely whispered, and even then it was shocking to hear them anywhere but in one's own mind.

In movies and even society, all the "hot" or attractive girls are called "sluts" by other girls.  Is it a way to make women feel empowered?  Maybe they think by putting other girls down they are making themselves look better - but really does this work?  It's one thing to joke around with my friends, but after I label a stranger a slut I really do feel bad for not even knowing her.  When did we all become so quick to judge and bash other girls because we envied them?

Most important, when did we take it as a compliment to be called such mean names?  Maybe we get drunk and laugh at it, but I'm sure I'm not the only girl to be truly hurt when a friend tells her she's a ho.  We can't control the guys, but at least the girls could up the respect factor a little bit - maybe the guys will follow.

It's amazing how some things stay in our mind no matter how many years go by. When I saw this article about child abuse I could remember in almost perfect detail a book I read about five years ago. "A Child Called It" is a book chronicling one of the most severe child abuse cases of a young boy in California who was abused by his alcoholic mother. As I said earlier, when I saw this article on USA Today all the horrible details of the book came flooding back to me, and made me wonder why certain events become engraved in our memories forever while others slip away.

Maybe it was the severity of the issue that keeps it so close to the front part of my brain, or maybe it's the connection I feel to the book after meeting a child who was abused in elementary school. Why then can't I always remember what I did three holidays back? I'm sure this celebration was filled with laughter and many memories, but unless I see pictures it's nearly impossible to recall the exact events of that day. And trust me, I don't have some kind of twisted selective memory.

I think whenever we connect to an idea, event, or other element on a personal level it embeds itself in the back of our brain until it is later triggered by even the faintest hint of the same idea. This one spark then ignites an entire string of stories and memories that all stem from my original thought. It's crazy how we immerse ourselves in one concept and watch as it branches off into dozens of other ideas.

When I thought back to the book "A Child Called It" I immediately forwarded to thoughts of my old neighbor, which led to a bbq the summer after my first year in high school, which branched out to high school, and now reminds me of my times spent here at SMU. (Even as I'm writing this you can see how scattered my thoughts have become as I bounce from one subject to another).

Maybe it's just how we're programmed that we can't help where our thoughts stray...

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2008-04-03-infant-neglect_N.htm?loc=interstitialskip

Beauty and the defeated

Everything these days comes with some price to pay. Doctors worked wonders for men and women of all ages with the use of Botox - but now even simple beauty procedures has more to it then just a lofty price sticker. In a recent article on Fox News, scientists have found that pieces of the injection from Botox can travel from the face to the brain. Now, before you form even more worry lines, relax - this study has only been conducted in mice. I find it ironic though that something that is said to make people so beautiful is actually harming them.

After reading this article I thought about a lot of things that people say are beneficial to us, but can actually be very harmful. The closest thing I can think of is tanning.  Ok so maybe this isn't "beneficial" but there are many girls who find it very necessary to be tan in the summer, and maybe even all year round. The thought of developing sin cancer rarely touches the mind of these men and women as they bask on the beach or fry their already dark bodies in tanning beds.

So why do we keep subjecting to these harmful activities if in the long run they can hurt us? Should we blame society for pressuring everyone to be wrinkle-free and burnt to a crisp? Or is it just a personal trait that some people take too far? Now I know I'm tan - thanks to tan in a can, but as for risking my intelligence so I look like a 12 year old? No thanks!!

Besides - look how cute the dog is with wrinkles :)

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,345068,00.html

The value of an education

We take our education for granted. Most of us never doubted we would progress through elementary school, move on to middle school, continue on to high school, and graduate on to college.  It never crosses most of our minds that our path will be blocked. 

Sadly, for many inner-city school districts this form of fiction for us is becoming a reality for many students. For example, in the Detroit City school district in Detroit, Mich. only 51.8 % of high school students graduated in 2003-04. Now I realize this data is a little late, but I'm not very optimistic that this rate has improved over the years.

It's disturbing to learn that these inner-city children really have nothing to aspire to if generations ahead of them are casting such a dark shadow over everyone. While suburban children flourish in college and beyond, their peers across the railroad tracks are busy living off the streets.

The main element to blame in all of this is classroom size.  I pride myself on going to a university where my professors (for the most part) know me on a first name basis. Going to a small school you have the opportunity to form a more personal bond with students and faculty. However, I went to a public high school, and while my professors knew who I was, it was always a chaotic scene in the classrooms and hallways.  Students who needed additional help were never given it because they could not be sought out in the sea of other students. Because os this overcrowding in inner-city schools, I feel many children are simply giving up because they feel they are being ignored by their teachers. The rich kids can afford a private education - others can't - by no means does this make sense.

All children should be offered equal education rights, no matter their class, ethnicity, intelligence - whatever it is. The only way for my generation to prosper and be successful in this country is for all human beings to make their contribution.  How are we supposed to do that when half of some cities cannot even produce decent graduation rates?

To read more on this issue, visit the link below.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2008-04-01-cities-suburbs-graduation_N.htm

I hate to lose

I've always been a very competitive person.  I hate losing.  I've come to fear failure in my life - not just in school and work, but in pretty much everything I do.  I've been an athlete since I can remember.  Skiing, snowboarding, cheerleading, swimming, diving, soccer, track, dance, and basketball - you name it and chances are pretty good that I've tried it.  Have I succeeded at all this?  I regret to say that no, I haven't.  It hurts to say this, but I'm not programmed to win everything, and just like the other members on the past teams I was on, I HATED to lose.

I think it's human nature for us to want to be the best at everything, and it's absurd to see the risks people go to in order to achieve the highest status in something.  Athletes train 24/7, starve themselves and inject foreign substances in their bodies to make themselves stronger, faster, more flexible - whatever talent their field requires to make them the best. People in the work force plagiarise work, live on caffeine, spy, and participate in other illegal activities to get that raise. 

Maybe there are more people out there like me, who are afraid to fail.  We aren't expected to be perfect, but why then do so many of us shudder at the fear of being anything less than?  We are constantly reminded to be the best, but what if our best isn't comparable to that of another person producing their best work?  Are we to strive or lower ourselves to their standard of what the best is? Maybe it's time we settled for our own level of perfection - of being happy with who we are, the abilities we put forward, and the talents we are capable of performing.  If that breaks expectations and makes us perfect, great!  If not, we can at leas be proud of ourselves and know we put forth the most perfect and best form of ability we are capable of as a human being.

Growing up too fast

I love Nelly Furtado and her music - especially her song "Promiscuous," but while watching the music video I couldn't help but cringe at the influence this video will have on today's youth.

Girls as young as 13 years old are tuning into media like this on a daily basis, and then going out and mimicking these artists. Now I'll admit to trying to dance like these women in the video, but little girls DO NOT need to be clones of celebrities considerably older than them.

By showing this video in venues all over the country it's almost as if our culture is encouraging young girls and boys to behave this.  I thought our country was trying to establish an independent and free spirit for women. The line "but if I get lonely, I'ma need your help" harshly contradicts this.  We do not need to emphasize that a woman can only be happy in a man's company.

Second, the thought of my little neighbor grinding all up on some stranger, in a midriff-baring cleavage-popping top is not acceptable.  If we keep showing club scenes like this to our younger generation, they are going to grow up assuming this is the way everyone behaves, and they must dress like tramps, dance like strippers, and mercifully tease and flirt with old, strange men. 

The best example I can think of is in the movie "Mean Girls" when Regina's sister is seen copying Shakira's dance moves while an out-of-control spring break trip rolls in the background. As the movie flashes to another scene, you can see the child proudly lift up her shirt and expose her chest to the college fans on the TV screen. The mom simply stands by without even being phased by her daughter's obscene actions. 

When my neighbor became a freshman in high school, I had just finished my first year at college. I returned home loaded down with clothes that no longer fit me, or were out of style. Rather than donating them, I decided to give the more age-appropriate pieces to Kristin. As she browsed through my old clothing, she came across a somewhat sleazy blue sequin dress that I had no intention of getting rid off. She immediately fell in love with it and went to try it on. When she emerged from my closet the length was fine, but the neckline scooped down nearly to her bellybutton.  She loved it. Begged to keep it.  She was a freshman in high school.  Wearing that dress would either cause her father to have a heart attack, her brother to commit his first murder, of her indefinite suspension from school.  I never found out which one came first. It took her nearly a week to get over the fact that dress was just too old for her.

If we expect those younger than us to aspire to successful and well respected people then we need to reevaluate how we are portraying the American culture.

Like I said I love this song and artist, but I also have the maturity to know when I have crossed the line in how I behave.  Young women want to be noticed and appreciated - now we just need to make sure it's for the right reasons.

Raise your standards!

Congratulations SMU! it seems as if our campus as hit a new all-time low. In response to last week’s aggravated assault on a female student as the SAE house, numerous students have taken it upon themselves to not only defend this house, but also accuse the victim of bringing the attack on herself.

While most students continue to access Juicy Campus as a joke, the gossip strewn website has morphed into a dumping ground for any topic. Just click on the link addressing the date rape topic and you will be subjected to nearly three-dozen posts ranging from how this is to expected at the SAE house, down to how the school refuses to punish sexual offenders.

So what makes SMU students think they can openly discuss such a horrific event in a playful manner? Is it a sick way for people to feel better about themselves? Is it the members of the house trying to play it off as being the girl’s fault, or is it a combination of both; people trying to turn this girl’s scarring experience into a laughing matter.

While the student accused of the assault has been referred to the Dean of Student Life, the woman has declined to file criminal charges. It is stretching the facts to guess that this woman withdrew charges because she was in fact, guilty of bringing the trouble on herself. Victims often hide behind a veil, thinking that ignoring the issue will help it disappear. Wrong. Did our campus ever seem to think that accusing the girl of insinuating the attack would cause her to withdraw her accusation as a last attempt to salvage her own self-respect.

If a rape victim is willing to come forward with information regarding an attack the student body should embrace this mark of confidence. Rather than supporting the victim, our campus is making this girl’s nightmare an even harsher reality.

How are we to expect sexual and aggravated assault victims to come forward to identify their victims and press charges if they will be subjected to rude and degrading criticism from their peers?

It is also a shame to hear students express their lack of faith in the school’s disciplinary actions regarding the assault. A specific post says the SAE house will not even be punished because too many members of the board are alumni from the frat.

Our campus needs to take a step back and rally behind these instances to make our campus a stronger and more united front. We can’t tolerate petty gossip, allow these victims to be farther targeted, and turn our backs on our school’s judicial system.

Finding a spark

It's official. I am 100% sure I want to be a journalist after going to the NCAA Women's Basketbal Tournament.  I know Griffin will cringe as he reads this, but hey, at least I've found my passion :)

Not only did I get experience first hand how the game is set up, but I also got a behind the scenes look at the entire production stages that makes everything possible.

If you didn't know, the SMU women's basketball team made it to the first round of the tournament after defeating UTEP (if you want to see how they did - check the article out at www.smudailycampus.com) Back to my point though - 

Being surrounded by a group of professionals from ESPN, CBS Sports, and every other print and broadcast organization imaginable was surreal. My press desk for the game was stationed right above the ESPN cameras so I even got to see the anchors write their notes, while the print people were on my left and right. Seeing all the talent come together made me realize what an exciting and influential field I want to work in. People were constantly asking writers and reporters for updates from other games around the country, and it was even more impressive that men were asking a woman about her opinion about No.1 Tennessee.

It was such an adrenaline rush to get the experience of covering a national event for the school, and an experience I will remember and reflect on for the rest of my career.

Urban Bowling

So maybe this is one step over the line, but the idea is too funny to be left alone.  Maybe it'sthe fact  that we could never get away with this in the U.S. that makes it so funny. But we find it unfair that in Europe it's considered humor.  If someone in the U.S. did this they would be arrested and charged with some outrageous crime, while in Europe it would become a weekly spot on a late-night comedy channel, as Neg's sports have become. (There are more sports available on YouTube.)

Is dating dated?

"All I want is for some guy to prove to me that they aren't all the same." This line runs through the minds of young women on this campus on a daily basis. Rather than sweeping a girl off her feet with a romantic dinner, maybe flowers, and an innocent kiss at the end of the night, dating has transpired into this:

Go to a bar, get a drink, dance with a cute boy, drink some more, leave the bar together, go home and hook up, repeat for 3 or so weekends... and VOILA! you have yourself a relationship.

At what point though was there the thrill of the chase involved? What about the anticipation of getting ready for a romantic date out with a boy, and spending more time brushing your hair than you would if you were going to meet Matthew McConaughey?

Guys all were asking for is a little more from you then the routine go to bar, find pretty girl, kiss said girl, and BAM label it on Facebook as a relationship. (We all know it's not 'real' until it's on the newsfeed).

Maybe I'm old fashioned, but I wouldn't mind a nice dinner and a movie with there being no expectations of a sexy hookup following.

It's sad to say, but it does seems as if dating has in fact become dated.  

How can they do this!??!

So while vacationing in Cozumel, Mexico, I came across the Coke machine pictured here.  What I want to know is how Mexico can charge $7.00 for a can of Coke.  And we're not talking Mexican money - we're talking $7 in U.S.  

Now I understand Mexico isn't as well off as us, but this gives them NO right to cheat us out of a can of coke.  I can understand charging that amount for a margarita... but not for a soft drink we can purchase for $.99 on the corner here.

The truth hurts

My friend showed me this website last night.  I haven't taken the time to open each link, but the "Spoof Ads" section is definitely worth your time.  It takes widely known ads and creates take-off ads making fun of the original content.  I was unable to copy the exact pictures in there, but click on the link below to see some of the site's creations.

http://adbusters.org/spoofads/index.php

Maybe between the "Absolut Hangover" and "Reality" ad, people will start to take advertising either less or more seriously depending on which ad they are viewing.  Let's face it - when you're pouring vodka shots down your throat, after the third one you're no longer focused on tomorrow morning's hangover... it's more about the fun.  "Absolut Hangover" might flash through your mind next time though.  As for the "Reality" ad, maybe this will put in perspective that the people wearing the clothes are not all models.

While we don't find these ads appealing, they definitely uncover the truth for us.

Creepy Clown Baby

I've really come to respect Leo Burnett and his work in the advertising industry, but this piece just creeps me out.  Maybe it's because I hate clowns... but this whited-out Ronald McDonald clown child should be labeled an advertising "don't."

I'm not even sure what the ad is trying to say.  I understand it's announcing the opening of a new location in India, but the copy "Just opened" really throws me off.  Did this scary baby hatch from an egg?  Not only is the make up on this baby frightening, the expression seems way too fake for me.   This child is still too young to be able to eat at McDonalds... I think the company would be wise to stick to pictures of delicious fries and focus on the Golden Arches - not a circus freak baby.

My Sunglases Are Famous

This kid just cracks me up.  From the open shirt, obnoxious sunglasses, and horribly dyed hair, this guy is just too much.  (Oh ya, the party wasn't his fault)

Kids take note - If the party happens as your house, with your friends, and damage it done to your street, your neighbors are bothered, and your parents are upset... chances are, it's YOUR fault.  I wouldn't be too quick to let this guy host your next party.

Bets on how long it takes this anchor to track the boy down and slap him across the face?

Sign of the Apocalypse 2

A dog driving a car safely across the street unharmed?  I almost want to think this was a hoax... but the video shows it all. What's next?  Cats as chauffeurs?  Or maybe we can go back to pigeons as mail carriers?

http://cbs2.com/local/Dog.Stolen.Truck.2.660123.html

Ironic

Kind of shocking and disturbing to see this right after the largest beef recall in history... I know it's at an earlier date, but we're seeing more and more of these recalls.  So about that tofu...

http://www.cheese-burger.net/stories/worlds-biggest-cheeseburger-photos.html

I'm not sure how I feel about making the largest cheeseburger in the world with what could potentially be bad beef.  Sign of the apocalypse?  

Now we just need the Hamburgler to make an appearance.  

My Only Sports Blog

So if you didn't know, I cover women's basketball for the school newspaper.  Now I know what you're thinking.  Women's basketball?  Why?  Well here's a shocker - they are currently the best sports team at SMU.  In fact, they made history last night after defeating Houston to mark the 21st win of the season - the most wins in school history.  So why do we continue to discriminate against women's sports?

I've heard guys say they would go to the games if the girls played in just sports bras and spandex... ok then why don't they go to volleyball?  The volleyball girls wear minimal clothing and you don't see fans there!  I've even seen the men's basketball team enviously watching the women from the bleachers - these guys only WISH they could be as good as the girls.

For the first time in the program's history the basketball team has a damn good chance of sweeping the Conference USA tournament, and going on to the NCAA Championship.  Have we caught your attention yet to watch these girls?

While it's too late now since the last two games are away, maybe next season the school will realize these girls are good.  It would be nice to see some fan support for not only a women's sport, but for the best sport at SMU.  Just because we're girls doesn't mean we're inferior to the guys.  

Dirty Dissing

Almost as addicting as Facebook, DirtyDTown has gained the reputation of being a website people check on a regular basis.  Now whether it's to laugh at the unfortunate people who make it up on the site, or simply to reassure oneself they aren't on the website, DirtyDTown is getting probably more hits than it deserves.

It's a guilty pleasure we all take part in seeing classmates make fools of themselves in public. It's even better when we can rehash these moments on a website.  But is this really fair?  I'm sure this website is all fun and games... until your face pops up once.  (Or dozens of times if you become a favorite).  And the harsh comments?  Sure some are funny, but I think it's time some of the people on the site grew up and leave the bullying to the high school basketball courts.  It's college - we're supposed to be more accepting of everyone.

I've been lucky enough to not have my face plastered on the screen yet, but hey I think we could all take a very valuable lesson from DirtyDTown.  Don't act like a tramp or drunken idiot if there's a camera around - especially if the person hiding behind the lens has a grudge against you.  Once that flash blinds you, it's fair game where that picture will end up. 

Brick Wall

I feel like I hit a brick wall today when I sat down to write this blog.  Thinking I had a great idea in mind, I was so wrong.  But, it made me think - what creates these barriers?  Is it a lack of confidence? Fear of publishing something our peers will make fun of?  Or is it simply just an incomplete thought that never materialized into more?

I guess in my case, it's a combination of all three.  Maybe it's my mood, but I just feel like any idea I put on my blog today isn't good enough.  Maybe it's the result of a more than horrible sports recap on the Daily Update that has put me in this mood.  I guess something as small as being too critical of yourself can crush your self-esteem faster than you can crush a spider.

I'm sure by my next entry though I'll have my confidence restored, and any idea that comes to my mind will be satisfactory with a little extra flair and color :)

Chalk one up to the artist

Being completely handicapped in the artistic field, these chalk drawings really caught my eye.  Who thought of the idea to draw various scenes on a sidewalk, make them appear 3-D, and the set a child on a flat piece of cement for a picture to add human life to it?  This form of creativity extends beyond anything I could think of... for now at least.

The simple idea of coloring on a sidewalk brings back childhood memories.  The complex idea of establishing various boundaries, dimensions, colors, and shadows combines an array of skills that I can only hope on day to develop.

Does evil have a face?

I have never really thought about what I consider to be truly evil.  I mean I've called other girls evil for dating the hot guy in a class, or spreading a rumor about me, but by no means do I think they are really evil.

The first thing that came to my mind when I heard the word evil was red eyes.  I can't put my finger on exactly why, but I'm going to go with something along the lines of a childhood memory.  I remember watching The Lion King and thinking Scar was evil for killing his brother.  There weren't any red eyes associated with this, but those coyotes sent chills down my spine.  Or maybe it was the cackling laugh they let out every time they thought of a new destructive plan.

As I write this, I think someone is evil if they think or act upon hurting a person, either physically or emotionally.  Someone is evil if they have intentions of harming someone simply to get pleasure out of it.  Someone is evil if they seek joy in seeing someone suffer.

Now is the girl sending glances to your boyfriend evil?  No, she's just rude... and inconsiderate... and jealous... and well, a bitch.  But definitely not evil - she can't hurt you from across the bar.

Inter-what-ual?

I'm going to start off by saying I'm not a huge fan or Doritos.  I'm not a fan of turning the color of the food I eat, nor am I all for trying to nibble around an awkwardly cheese-overload triangle while it's crumbles away between my fingers.  So, I'm apologizing ahead of time if I offend any Dorito fans in the horizontal and vertical textuality connections I'm about to make.

Horizontal - (single genre)

• well let's state the obvious: Fritos, Pringles, Cheezits... all around snack food
• that crunching noise when the man bites into the chip - it's apparent in almost ALL food commercials (same with the crinkling of the bag)
• has anyone else noticed how many food/ beverage ads are aimed at preventing someone from stealing the main subject's food (just look at the Mountain Dew "Spy" commercials) - this trend continues in this spot, only it's a mouse instead of person
• on that note, has anyone else noticed the object that is being prevented from getting the food usually prevails in the end?

Vertical - (multiple genres)

• the music, while very well suited for the ad, makes me thing I should expect a fat lady to pop out of the wall not a mouse - so let's throw the music back to the Opera
  
• While the mouse is not a cartoon, I couldn't help but think of Pinky and the Brain trying to take over the universe
• and does the main guy not slightly resemble Uncle Lurch from the Adam's Family?

Tertiary text -

• the man is clearly trying to set a certain standard for who is "worthy" enough to eat Doritos - poor mouse :(
• while the mouse is trying to prove that all species are "worthy" and capable enough to get their paws on their own bag of chips
• The main message I got from this ad was: If someone wants a bag of Doritos bad enough, they will go to all lengths to get them.  Anyone who desires can share in the enjoyment of these chips.

What about Grey's?

Finally, the writer's strike is over!  Now we can get back to wasting our weeknights in front of the TV zoning out to Grey's Anatomy, Heros, Lost... whatever show it was that took priority on a given night.

However, I think most assumed our shows would pick back up right where they left off.  Why then have we not seen any indication to the return of our guilt pleasures?  Oh that's right, the writers strike may be over, but not the negotiations.  Way to get our hopes up!  Never fear though, there are numerous students making their own TV shows right here on campus.  Maybe there's hope for us - these shows could turn out to better than Grey's (doubtful). But hey, I for one am trying to see the light at the end of the tunnel as more than a train.

In the meantime, we have more time to study (ick) and more time to go out with our friends (yay).  Use this free-time to get the dirt on the new hotty, check out the hottest bar, and dance wildly to the newest tune before all your free time becomes consumed by the latest fictional love affair.

I need to vent

So maybe this isn't the spot to vent my anger, but I'm going to try and be constructive in my criticism.  I spent the weekend at the National Cheerleaders Association National All-Star Competition at the Coliseum and was stunned at the number of "fans" who did not constitute cheerleading as a sport. Even worse, they automatically assumed all men were gay.

Watch this video and tell me you wouldn't want to be one of those buff guys tossing and flipping tones hotties through the hair, while getting a peak up their barely-there skirt before you catch them around their waist.

So this video is a college routine from when I competed in Daytona, Florida last year, but it is by no means short of what any other cheerleader is capable of.

Part of being creative is having an open mind, but how can people who call themselves supported of cheerleader stereotype these athletes as non-athletes, and then men as gay, and women as too skinny and dizty?  If you ask me, these routines and tricks you see on the screen are pretty damn creative.  Could the average Joe come up with the idea to backflip a girl into one guy's hand, and have her flip down only to twist back up in an upside down handstand?  I doubt it.

This sport is one of the most creative outlets I've experienced.  From the age of four I've been through classes, competitions, and have now taken over the coaching side, and let me tell you, some of my most creative ideas have been put into this sport.

Everyone needs to find their niche, and while I one day want mine to be advertising - I think this will do for now.  As for the rest of you, open your minds to more than your favorite sport! I'll bet you end up surprised at what you discover.

Living a movie

This article seems like something you see out of a movie - not a headline on CNN News.  When are people going to live scenes such as street racing should be reserved for the big screen, not the back alley of a neighborhood.  In the wake of the Illinois shooting, and now this, you would think people would be more careful about their actions.

I guess what scares me the most about this is that it is something I could see my brother doing. Maybe I'm jumping to conclusions, but guys seem to think they are invincible, and bad things will never happen to them.  Seeing these events, we need to take a step back and evaluate what is important to us.  It's time we open our eyes, but we must start thinking more carefully and clearly before we put that one foot in front of the other.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/02/16/drag.race.deaths.ap/index.html?iref=mpstoryview

Free Fallin'

Let the political ad campaign blood bath begin!  Let me start by saying that while I am a Republican and I have no intention of voting for Hillary Clinton, I felt the ad harmed Hilary more than helping her.

If you've been keeping up with the news you know Clinton isn't a favorite. Sure it would be great to see a woman in office, but I felt this ad was symbolic of how Clinton's campaign is plummeting straight into the ground. The scary opening looks like a death sentence. Yes I know our economy is somewhat falling apart, but I highly doubt our country is at risk of dying should the parachuter hit the ground.

It is relaxing to see the parachute open up though at the end, and hey, maybe Clinton does have a chance. I know our economy can overcome whatever form of recession our parent's generation has subjected us to, but we don't need death defying stunts thrown in our faces to prove this.

Hillary, now might be a good time to start opening that parachute though...

Virgin Eyes

I'm sure this ad stirs many emotions. Some may think it's sexy, hip, and hot amongst other things... then there are those who find this ad inappropriate, appalling, and completely unnecessary to have displayed on a public street. I mean dozens, if not thousands of children pass by this sign everyday - and I'm sure they are paying not attention to the black jeans being advertised.

The only people probably paying attention to the jeans are girls.  I mean they are on the guy, the only part of the guy you can see that has clothes are his legs. The sexual message of the ad supports the male ego that jeans will get you some action by a gorgeous girl wearing only a bra, covered in sweat because she's that hot for you.  Get real Calvin Klein. Only a very small target audience is going to react positively to this.

Children especially should not be exposed to this form of advertising on a regular basis - God forbid little Timmy thinks if he wears jeans he's going to get laid. How does a parent explain to the band geek 10 years later that black jeans don't get you girls?

These ads need to be not only reevaluated, but their location also needs to be given much more consideration.

False punishment

Jail is supposed to be a place where murderers, rapists, robbers, and drunk drivers are held as punishment for their actions. But when did it start to resemble a sleazy boys' club resort?

The attached article explains a prison in Florida where guards have taken it upon themselves to transfer the prison grounds into a playground. Guards are being accused of accepting kickback, importing and selling steroids to give them an upper hand in rival softball games during yard time, using taxpayers funds for alcohol and prostitutes, and guards starting fights with other guards. Explaining "women were treated like chattel in this department," orgies were also normal events on the prison grounds.

If prison grounds are becoming a cause for celebration after winning a softball game, it's no wonder our jails are being overcrowded. Our tax money is going towards frat-like parties, rather than punishing crime. Law enforcement officials are meant to be trusted, but how are we to trust them when they are guilty of engaging in such activities?

I think it's time to re-evaluate what goes on in our prison system, and pay more attention to the people we are supposed to be trusting.

For the full article, you can visit:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/02/11/prison.boss/index.html

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/08/business/media/08adco.html?_r=2&ref=media&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

Just when you thought rapper Jay Z had it all, you were wrong. One thing he doesn't have is his own advertising agency. Fear not though, what a famous rapper wants, a famous rapper gets. 

In an article by the New York Times, Jay Z is working with Steve Stoute to open Translation Advertising in New York City in hopes of helping markets reach multicultural consumers.

So ya, Jay Z is a cool guy. Admit, you loved his music at one point, but can you really see him ad an ad guru? Celebrities have already taken over our clothing stores, favorite fragrance lines, cars, etc... do they need to meddle any more in our advertising?  We see them promoting every sexy, new soda, designer purse, race car, and David Yurman bracelet, so why can't they just keep to looking good and getting paid for it?

I think having a big-name celebrity in the agency can offer some good insight, but I do not feel these celebrities will really contribute to the overall market when they now know nothing less than living off million dollar paychecks.

We need to leave the market research to researchers - not rappers.