12.25.10- New York, New York - Diane T. Creston, spokesperson for Jolly the Elf, and his sister Jollyette, is pleased to share the details of a fairy tale event that was created just in time for Christmas at the extraordinary, world-class Maria Fareri Children's Hospital in Valhalla, New York.
Creston states, "A few children were very shy, and many were wide-eyed in wonder as I prepared to read Jolly The Elf, a very special Christmas story, by Jo Shepherd Ripley. It was touching to note that some of the children arrived with their stuffed toys held and cradled as if the toys were babies. And, to children, they are. We waited while a few of the children in wheel chairs with IVs and oxygen were wheeled into the room.
"I wasn't sure if all of the children knew about elves, so I asked. One little girl, no more than four, answered with 'Oh yes, they help Santa.' When I told her she was very smart, she smiled. Another boy said, 'And one more thing, elves really know all about teamwork.' Even at his young age, he knows the importance of teamwork.
"As I shared a bit of background about Jo Shepherd Ripley, and the fact that she's also the mother of 11 children, the little girl who answered the elf question jumped up and said, 'Oh no!!' When I told them that, word of honor, Jolly is her 12th child, they all giggled. Meanwhile throughout the event, a very tiny Jolly was perched on a high shelf, but the children were not even aware that he was watching.
"Even child, and those unable to attend, received a Jolly The Elf book, and a Jolly, or Jollette of their very own. A little boy asked if he could give his Jolly to his small stuffed dog. That's fine I said as I watched him gently wrap Jolly's arms around the dog's neck. As the boy was leaving, he thanked me and said, 'Now, they will love each other, and they'll never be alone.'"
ABOUT THE BOOK: A Christmas fairy tale, by Jo Shepherd Ripley with illustrations by former Disney illustrator, John C. Blackford.
Jo Ripley's Jolly The Elf story is a delightful addition to the Christmas sagas. It is an authentic family tale and tradition inspired by the most wonderful prompter of invention --a child's curiosity. The text is sweet and wistful, and the illustrations are magical. Yes, Virginia, there is a Jolly The Elf.
--Jack Kerley, New York Times and London Times best-selling author
ABOUT THE HOSPITAL:
In 1995, John and Brenda Fareri experienced the worst thing a parent can ever imagine, the unexpected death of their daughter Maria. Their experiences throughout the week of Maria's sudden illness, spent at the Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York, led them to ask, 'Why shouldn't there be a world-class children's hospital in Westchester?' With the support of the medical centre's administration and the Department of Pediatrics, the journey began to create a facility unlike any other and a lasting tribute to Maria while helping countless children and their families for decades to come.
Maria Fareri Children's Hospital at Westchester Medical Center is the advanced care pediatric hospital for New York's Hudson Valley region and Fairfield County, Connecticut. Maria Fareri Children's Hospital is part of Westchester Medical Center, the advanced healthcare facility for the same area, and is home to hundreds of clinical and surgical pediatric specialists in almost every medical field.
Maria Fareri Children's Hospital at Westchester Medical Center treats more than 20,000 patients each year. A known leader in pediatric care and a true advocate for children's health and wellness, the hospital operates under a “family-centered care” approach to treating children that involves parents, siblings and family members in every step of a child's treatment. Care is provided in a state-of-the-art building designed specifically from the point of view of children and their families. Maria Fareri Children's Hospital adheres to the philosophy that family-centered care and active family involvement creates an environment specially suited to enable medical specialists to provide the most advanced care to their patients and to facilitate the healing process, regardless of the illness.
For Media Interviews:
Diane T. Creston
President/Creative Director
Creston Advertising & Marketing, Inc.
212-400-8698
info@crestonadvertising.com
www.crestonadvertising.com
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Jo Shepherd Ripley Studios to Creston Advertising and Marketing
Darryl Gregg, a spokesperson for Creston Advertising & Marketing is pleased to announce that the agency has been selected to handle a 2010 4th quarter initiative for Jolly the Elf, a heartwarming Christmas story, now available as a children's book by Jo Shepherd Ripley with illustrations by former Disney illustrator, John C. Blackford.
Agency President and Creative Director, Diane T. Creston states, "Jo Shepherd Ripley is a extremely talented and creative women. Her talents not only include writing, but fine art and artistic impressions as well. We're very pleased to be involved in this initiative for the book and Jo Shepherd Ripley Studios.
"The essence of Jolly The Elf conveys what it means to be in touch with yourself as a person, and what it means for children to discover and embrace their dreams."
Jo Ripley's Jolly The Elf story is a delightful addition to the Christmas sagas. It is an authentic family tale and tradition inspired by the most wonderful prompter of invention -- a child's curiosity. The text is sweet and wistful, and the illustrations are magical. Yes, Virginia, there is a Jolly The Elf.
--Jack Kerley, New York Times and London Times best-selling author
Agency President and Creative Director, Diane T. Creston states, "Jo Shepherd Ripley is a extremely talented and creative women. Her talents not only include writing, but fine art and artistic impressions as well. We're very pleased to be involved in this initiative for the book and Jo Shepherd Ripley Studios.
"The essence of Jolly The Elf conveys what it means to be in touch with yourself as a person, and what it means for children to discover and embrace their dreams."
Jo Ripley's Jolly The Elf story is a delightful addition to the Christmas sagas. It is an authentic family tale and tradition inspired by the most wonderful prompter of invention -- a child's curiosity. The text is sweet and wistful, and the illustrations are magical. Yes, Virginia, there is a Jolly The Elf.
--Jack Kerley, New York Times and London Times best-selling author
Monday, December 20, 2010
Mac App Store Set to Open 01.06.10
Apple announced that the Mac App Store will open for business on Thursday, January 6, 2011. By bringing the revolutionary App Store experience to Mac OS…The App Store brings a world of possibilities to iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. It’s about to do the same for your Mac.
Great apps for your Mac. Right on your Mac.
The Mac App Store is just like the App Store for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. So it’s as easy to find and download Mac apps as it is to add your favorite magazine to iPad or a new game to iPod touch. You can browse Mac apps by category, such as games, productivity, music, and more. Or do a quick search for something specific. Read developer descriptions and user reviews. Flip through screenshots. When you find an app you like, click to buy it.
Great apps for your Mac. Right on your Mac.
The Mac App Store is just like the App Store for iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. So it’s as easy to find and download Mac apps as it is to add your favorite magazine to iPad or a new game to iPod touch. You can browse Mac apps by category, such as games, productivity, music, and more. Or do a quick search for something specific. Read developer descriptions and user reviews. Flip through screenshots. When you find an app you like, click to buy it.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
"Jobseekers Clinic" Live at 8 pm (pacific) on CBS Radio and News Talk 980 (980 AM)
Mark Alyn hosts the "Jobseekers Clinic" live at 8 pm (pacific) on CBS radio KFWB News Talk 980 (980 AM) and on www.jobseekersclinic.com. Kudos to Alyn, who has helped so many people find work in this difficult economy.
Alyn's guest host is Sandra Hamilton, an industry expert with over 20 years of experience in all aspects of helping people find work. You can call her to ask any questions about how to get a job fast.
Also joining the conversation is Marc Cashman, a voice-over actor and producer who will explain marketing techniques that will help actors seeking voice-over work. Interestingly enough, these same techniques can be used to get any kind of job.
Wrapping up the show is Ginny Clarke, a talent and career coach, who will also answer your job seeking questions!
There's a reason why this show is so popular...the tips and information produces results for job seekers. Tune in...the call-in number is given on air.
Alyn's guest host is Sandra Hamilton, an industry expert with over 20 years of experience in all aspects of helping people find work. You can call her to ask any questions about how to get a job fast.
Also joining the conversation is Marc Cashman, a voice-over actor and producer who will explain marketing techniques that will help actors seeking voice-over work. Interestingly enough, these same techniques can be used to get any kind of job.
Wrapping up the show is Ginny Clarke, a talent and career coach, who will also answer your job seeking questions!
There's a reason why this show is so popular...the tips and information produces results for job seekers. Tune in...the call-in number is given on air.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Baidu, China’s Largest Search Engine, Doubled in Value since January
The CEO of Baidu, one of China’s largest and most powerful Internet companies, says 99% of China uses its search engine, but he maintains the company isn’t anti-competitive.
Baidu, China’s largest search engine, doubled in value since January and is worth just as much as Facebook () and eBay. It has even been outperforming Google () in China, something very few companies can claim.
Robin Li, Baidu’s CEO, is on stage with journalist John Battelle at Web 2.0 Summit in San Francisco, speaking about Baidu’s rapid growth, Google’s recent decision to leave China and the differences between the Chinese market and the U.S. market.
Live notes from the conversation:http://mashable.com/2010/11/15/baidu-robin-li/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29
Baidu, China’s largest search engine, doubled in value since January and is worth just as much as Facebook () and eBay. It has even been outperforming Google () in China, something very few companies can claim.
Robin Li, Baidu’s CEO, is on stage with journalist John Battelle at Web 2.0 Summit in San Francisco, speaking about Baidu’s rapid growth, Google’s recent decision to leave China and the differences between the Chinese market and the U.S. market.
Live notes from the conversation:http://mashable.com/2010/11/15/baidu-robin-li/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Analysis: Deregulation set to lift China gold demand
(Reuters) China, the world's largest consumer of base metals and the second biggest user of oil, is on gold bugs' radar screens, with hints that Beijing may want to boost its gold holdings rippling through international markets, sending bullion higher. Plans to free up China's gold market are likely to boost imports of the precious metal to satisfy investor demand, putting the Middle Kingdom on course to eclipse India as the top global consumer in a few years.
So far China's central bank has shied away from the international market and has instead been building reserves from its domestic mining industry, the largest in the world. But that may change after the People's Bank of China said in August it would let its banks export and import more gold in a program to drive the development of the country's market in the precious metal.
By opening up the market, the PBOC may be able to draw tonnes of gold into China, which it could then pick up on the domestic market, without disrupting market equilibrium too much.
"The way they will accumulate a massive amount of gold is by opening up imports and making sure there is heck a lot of gold swishing around in the domestic market," said Mark Pervan, a senior commodities analyst at ANZ.
"It's just too big a player in the market. Investors are looking for any signs of China buying gold on the world market. If Beijing said it was buying 100 tonnes, prices would leap, not because of this 100 tonnes, but because of the 300 tonnes the market would expect to follow."
ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT CHANNELS
Appetite for the precious metal has grown rapidly in China as investors worried about inflationary pressure turn to alternative investment channels.
Demand was expected to rise to around 600 tonnes in 2011, according to a Reuters survey of five analysts, and may go even higher.
"The jewelry sector is growing, as is demand for investment gold. A clampdown on property investment and speculation in other markets has resulted in more money going into gold and jewelry," said William Adams, analyst at FastMarkets.com.
"Jewelry demand in China has probably managed to rise and may even be growing at a faster pace than the average over the decade of about 7 percent."
China's gold consumption this year is forecast between 450 and 600 tonnes, with a consensus of 500 tonnes, analysts surveyed by Reuters said. The WGC estimates demand at 510 tonnes.
Several researchers have urged Beijing to increase its gold reserves to diversify more of its $2.6 trillion in foreign currency reserves, and a more open market would allow the central government to build stocks of gold more quickly, without sending tremors through the international market.
Although no detailed follow-up rules have been announced, analysts expect Beijing to open up the gold market as a prelude to deregulation of bond and foreign exchange markets.
China's total demand has risen by around 20 percent in three of the past four years, while demand for gold as an investment jumped 60 percent in 2009, data from the WGC show.
On an annualized basis, China's retail investment demand would rise another 44 percent in 2010 to more than 150 tonnes for this year, while jewelry consumption will rise only 2.5 percent to 360 tonnes, based on Reuters calculations using WGC data.
So far China's central bank has shied away from the international market and has instead been building reserves from its domestic mining industry, the largest in the world. But that may change after the People's Bank of China said in August it would let its banks export and import more gold in a program to drive the development of the country's market in the precious metal.
By opening up the market, the PBOC may be able to draw tonnes of gold into China, which it could then pick up on the domestic market, without disrupting market equilibrium too much.
"The way they will accumulate a massive amount of gold is by opening up imports and making sure there is heck a lot of gold swishing around in the domestic market," said Mark Pervan, a senior commodities analyst at ANZ.
"It's just too big a player in the market. Investors are looking for any signs of China buying gold on the world market. If Beijing said it was buying 100 tonnes, prices would leap, not because of this 100 tonnes, but because of the 300 tonnes the market would expect to follow."
ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT CHANNELS
Appetite for the precious metal has grown rapidly in China as investors worried about inflationary pressure turn to alternative investment channels.
Demand was expected to rise to around 600 tonnes in 2011, according to a Reuters survey of five analysts, and may go even higher.
"The jewelry sector is growing, as is demand for investment gold. A clampdown on property investment and speculation in other markets has resulted in more money going into gold and jewelry," said William Adams, analyst at FastMarkets.com.
"Jewelry demand in China has probably managed to rise and may even be growing at a faster pace than the average over the decade of about 7 percent."
China's gold consumption this year is forecast between 450 and 600 tonnes, with a consensus of 500 tonnes, analysts surveyed by Reuters said. The WGC estimates demand at 510 tonnes.
Several researchers have urged Beijing to increase its gold reserves to diversify more of its $2.6 trillion in foreign currency reserves, and a more open market would allow the central government to build stocks of gold more quickly, without sending tremors through the international market.
Although no detailed follow-up rules have been announced, analysts expect Beijing to open up the gold market as a prelude to deregulation of bond and foreign exchange markets.
China's total demand has risen by around 20 percent in three of the past four years, while demand for gold as an investment jumped 60 percent in 2009, data from the WGC show.
On an annualized basis, China's retail investment demand would rise another 44 percent in 2010 to more than 150 tonnes for this year, while jewelry consumption will rise only 2.5 percent to 360 tonnes, based on Reuters calculations using WGC data.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
October 2010 At Retail
October's mixed retail bag showed Target at the low end with a 1.7% same-store sales increase and projections for another low single-digit comp in November. On the bright side, Macy's, the nation's leading department store chain, reported a surprisingly strong 2.5% comp gain, while rivals such as Dillard's, JCPenney and Kohl's posted declines of 1%, 1.9% and 2.5% respectively.
Discounters Ross Stores and TJX Companies reported results that exceeded their expectations. Ross gained 4% and TJX results, although flat, were at the high end of the company's guidance that was tempered by a double-digit gain the prior year. Costco advanced 3% at its U.S. clubs.
Upscale retailer Saks reported an 8.1% increase, although that figure is against several years of easy comparisons, while Nordstrom posted a 3.4% increase with such categories as shoes, jewelry and women's dresses,
While an estimated 32% of shoppers plan to make a consumer electronics purchase this season, reports the Consumer Electronics Association, they're also expected to be exceedingly price-wary. The average American will shell out $232 on electronics gifts this year, according to CEA's 17th Annual CE Holiday Purchase Patterns Study--a gain of 5% from last year, and the highest dollar amount in the history of the study.
Discounters Ross Stores and TJX Companies reported results that exceeded their expectations. Ross gained 4% and TJX results, although flat, were at the high end of the company's guidance that was tempered by a double-digit gain the prior year. Costco advanced 3% at its U.S. clubs.
Upscale retailer Saks reported an 8.1% increase, although that figure is against several years of easy comparisons, while Nordstrom posted a 3.4% increase with such categories as shoes, jewelry and women's dresses,
While an estimated 32% of shoppers plan to make a consumer electronics purchase this season, reports the Consumer Electronics Association, they're also expected to be exceedingly price-wary. The average American will shell out $232 on electronics gifts this year, according to CEA's 17th Annual CE Holiday Purchase Patterns Study--a gain of 5% from last year, and the highest dollar amount in the history of the study.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Amazon to Acquire Diapers.com for $540 Million, Fortune Reports
On Monday, Nov. 8, Amazon.com Inc. is likely to announce the purchase of Quidsi Inc., the parent company of Diapers.com, for $540 million in cash, Fortune reported, without citing anyone.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Irv Sommer Joins Metro Design USA Team
Sommer has worked in the toy area as an assistant buyer with JC Penney in the 60's, and sales, marketing and product development with such major names as Ideal, Aurora products and Carlin Playthings.
He has over 30 years of experience traveling to and working in the Orient, especially in China, Hong Kong and many of the neighboring countries. He has pioneered many new concepts and products in the industry.
Warren Vogel, CEO, states,"We welcome Irv to Metro Design, and we know that with our diverse resources and his ability, we will enjoy tremendous growth as a company."
Metro Design USA is a multi faceted organization with divisions in Table Top, Flatware, Closet, Home Decor, and Hardware. In January, 2011, the company will be showing the new line in Hong Kong in the Tsim Sha Tsui area. Sales representatives will be contacting buyers to set up appointments.
If there is any question about who to contact, please get in touch with Irv or Alan Hess, at 732-616-4946.
Visit: http://www.metrodesignusa.com/
###
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Walmart Reviewing India's Retail Sector
Duke made reference to Walmart founder Sam Walton's comment: "If we work together, we'll lower the cost of living for everyone, we'll give the world an opportunity to see what it's like to save and have a better life." and offered some examples of how Walmart has delivered on that vision in India. For example, Duke talked about Walmart's direct-farm program in Punjab and Delhi and announced a new goal to purchase from 35,000 small and medium farmers by 2015. Duke said the company currently purchases from 600 small farmers.
"We will work with these farmers on crop management and we will provide more direct market access for their produce. We will train them to grow food more sustainably, using less water and optimizing the use of pesticides and fertilizers," Duke said. "By purchasing directly and helping these farmers operate more efficiently, we estimate that they will see a 20% increase in income."
The program is an example of the way Duke said Walmart can lift up the lives of Indian people because its efforts have a multiplier effect with one million workers involved in farming and agriculture production expected to benefit.
"We're confident that with these steps we can and we will make a difference for farmers and farm workers. And as we grow in India, we'll lift up the lives of even more people in cities and rural communities across the country," Duke said. Another key message shared with the business leaders was Walmart's effort to educate the nation's work force in the ways of modern retail. Two years ago the company opened a training center with its joint-venture partner Bharti and more recently opened a second facility in Delhi.
"So far more than 3,400 students have achieved a certification and more than 1,100 of those students have been placed in jobs," Duke said. "I'm pleased to announce today that we will be adding a third skills training center in Bangalore within the next couple of months." The goal is to certify more than 40,000 students over the next five years and place 15,000 of them in jobs.
The thing that is noteworthy is that India's business and social leaders have to be wondering whether Walmart is doing all of this stuff to simply sway opinion toward allowing 100% foreign direct investment or, as Duke implied, India is seeing a small sample of the potential that awaits if Walmart is allowed unbridled access to the market.
The company and the country have a long way to go to realize the aspirations outlined by Duke. Since Walmart announced its joint venture with Bharti three years ago, four cash-and-carry stores have been opened with a fifth due in the coming months and a total of 10 to 15 within the next two years.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Let The (Tablet/Slate) Games Begin
Whether it's the Apple iPad, Dell, HP, or Archos there's an increasing number of tablets or slates to choose from. CNET has the latest buzz, and I suggest that you check it out: http://reviews.cnet.com/tablets/?tag=TOCleftColumn.0
Since the holidays are fast approaching, I'd really like an iPad...hint...hint.
Since the holidays are fast approaching, I'd really like an iPad...hint...hint.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Retail data: Americans remained cautious in July
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
A Smooth Move...Extreme Measures...Designed To Glide Toward The Target!
Selling a premium shaving experience to cost-conscious consumers in a challenging economy requires extreme measures. Witness efforts from Procter & Gamble and Target this week to generate trial use of the Gillette's Fusion ProGlide razor. In addition to a stunning point-of-purchase merchandising display, complete with motion and light, positioned on an endcap, Target also featured the new razor on the front page of its circular this week for $8.99. To sweeten the offer, a bonus $5 gift card was offered to shoppers who purchase two ProGlide razors or cartridges.
Timberlake Fashion Line Set To Launch at Target This Winter
Target announced that William Rast, the fashion line by celebrity Justin Timberlake and his childhood friend Trace Ayala, will debut at Target in December, and the line will be available for a month.
The typical William Rast look is casual, with an emphasis on jeans and leather jackets. The fall runway collection, presented earlier this year at New York Fashion Week, was dubbed "New America" and inspired by road trips between the Mississippi River and the West Coast, according to Timberlake.
Paper Supplier Receives "Bullseye" Award
NewPage Corp. announced that it recently received a "Best of the Bullseye" award from Target. This highly coveted award is presented to creative agencies, production and paper partners as well as individuals who exceed Target's expectations in one of four award categories: Effectiveness, Innovation, Leadership and Collaboration. NewPage received the award for Effectiveness in being a valued paper supplier.
NewPage, the largest coated paper manufacturer in North America, has been supplying the paper for Target weekly circulars from its Duluth, Minn., mill for more than 20 years.
"In order to operate in a lean manner, Target does not carry paper inventory -- and Target has been able to trust NewPage to deliver high quality paper products in a timely way," noted Chuck Herrig, VP marketing for Target Stores. "Reliability from our suppliers is critical. As a retailer, our stores are very dependent upon the circular to be a reflection of our stores and drive consumers through our doors. NewPage has demonstrated superior reliability, quality and a true dedication to us as customers which can be pretty rare in this industry."
Smooth moves indeed by Target...Creston's comment, "KUDOS!"
Timberlake Fashion Line Set To Launch at Target This Winter
Target announced that William Rast, the fashion line by celebrity Justin Timberlake and his childhood friend Trace Ayala, will debut at Target in December, and the line will be available for a month.
The typical William Rast look is casual, with an emphasis on jeans and leather jackets. The fall runway collection, presented earlier this year at New York Fashion Week, was dubbed "New America" and inspired by road trips between the Mississippi River and the West Coast, according to Timberlake.
Paper Supplier Receives "Bullseye" Award
NewPage Corp. announced that it recently received a "Best of the Bullseye" award from Target. This highly coveted award is presented to creative agencies, production and paper partners as well as individuals who exceed Target's expectations in one of four award categories: Effectiveness, Innovation, Leadership and Collaboration. NewPage received the award for Effectiveness in being a valued paper supplier.
NewPage, the largest coated paper manufacturer in North America, has been supplying the paper for Target weekly circulars from its Duluth, Minn., mill for more than 20 years.
"In order to operate in a lean manner, Target does not carry paper inventory -- and Target has been able to trust NewPage to deliver high quality paper products in a timely way," noted Chuck Herrig, VP marketing for Target Stores. "Reliability from our suppliers is critical. As a retailer, our stores are very dependent upon the circular to be a reflection of our stores and drive consumers through our doors. NewPage has demonstrated superior reliability, quality and a true dedication to us as customers which can be pretty rare in this industry."
Smooth moves indeed by Target...Creston's comment, "KUDOS!"
Sunday, July 25, 2010
The Blogger Generation Still Dominates Blogging by Jack Loechner
According to Sysomos.com, after an analysis of more than 100 million blog posts, not surprisingly, the most active bloggers are younger people who have grown up during the blogging "revolution", which started about seven years ago. Bloggers in the 21-to-35 year-old demographic group account for 53.3% of the total blogging population.
This group is followed by the generation just behind them - people 20-years-old or under are 20.2% of the blogging landscape:
* ≤ 20 years (20.2%)
* 21-35 yrs (53.3)
* 36-50 yrs (19.4)
* ≥51 yrs (7.1)
* Source: sysomos.com, June 2010
The difference between genders in the blogosphere is balanced with women making up 50.9% and males 49.1% of bloggers. This suggests the Internet is a gender neutral environment.
This group is followed by the generation just behind them - people 20-years-old or under are 20.2% of the blogging landscape:
* ≤ 20 years (20.2%)
* 21-35 yrs (53.3)
* 36-50 yrs (19.4)
* ≥51 yrs (7.1)
* Source: sysomos.com, June 2010
The difference between genders in the blogosphere is balanced with women making up 50.9% and males 49.1% of bloggers. This suggests the Internet is a gender neutral environment.
Friday, July 23, 2010
One Third of Consumers Turn to Facebook, Twitter to Engage Brands Online
A new study released today by ExactTarget finds nearly 40 percent of consumers turning to Facebook and Twitter to supplement the news, information or deals they receive via email marketing.
Featured in ExactTarget’s Social Profile report, the survey of more than 1,500 consumers identified 12 distinct personas for how consumers interact with brands online by studying the levels of social media creation and consumption across all ages and income levels.
“Consumers don’t silo their engagement with brands to a single channel, instead they tend to ‘layer’ marketing channels on top of one another to meet their different objectives,” said Morgan Stewart, principal, ExactTarget’s research and education group. “The things that motivate consumers to go online initially dictate where and how they choose to engage with brands – whether that be email, Facebook or Twitter.”
Key findings of the research include:
# More than 90 percent of consumers that are a fan of, or “like,” at least one brand on Facebook also receive at least one permission-based marketing email per day.
# More than 75 percent of consumers that follow at least one brand on Twitter subscribe to at least one brand’s email marketing.
# Nearly half of consumers who engage with brands via Twitter do so silently, regularly reading tweets even though they do not have their own Twitter account.
# 45 percent of mothers with children living in the home identify themselves as ‘Deal Seekers’ and on average are a fan of 10 brands on Facebook, follow 10 companies on Twitter and receive 14 permission-based marketing emails daily.
# 33 percent of consumers identify themselves as Info Seekers, influenced most heavily by product reviews and other forms of user-generated content.
# While 28 percent of consumers under the age of 25 identify themselves as “social butterflies” and fan the most brands on Facebook, they are more likely to buy from companies that send them permission-based email.
“Simply understanding demographics of a customer group is no longer enough,” said Tim Kopp, ExactTarget’s chief marketing officer. “By bridging the gap between demographics and consumer motivations, the Social Profile research identifies unique personas that give marketers an entirely new level of understanding of consumer behavior.”
ExactTarget’s Social Profile study is the third research brief in ExactTarget’s six-part Subscribers, Fans & Followers research series set for release through September. The series provides marketers exclusive insight into how U.S. consumers’ interact with brands online based on a series of focus groups, interviews and surveys conducted in March and April. For more information about the study, to access an interactive application of the Subscribers, Fans & Followers data or to subscribe to receive future research briefs delivered via email, visit www.ExactTarget.com/sff.
Featured in ExactTarget’s Social Profile report, the survey of more than 1,500 consumers identified 12 distinct personas for how consumers interact with brands online by studying the levels of social media creation and consumption across all ages and income levels.
“Consumers don’t silo their engagement with brands to a single channel, instead they tend to ‘layer’ marketing channels on top of one another to meet their different objectives,” said Morgan Stewart, principal, ExactTarget’s research and education group. “The things that motivate consumers to go online initially dictate where and how they choose to engage with brands – whether that be email, Facebook or Twitter.”
Key findings of the research include:
# More than 90 percent of consumers that are a fan of, or “like,” at least one brand on Facebook also receive at least one permission-based marketing email per day.
# More than 75 percent of consumers that follow at least one brand on Twitter subscribe to at least one brand’s email marketing.
# Nearly half of consumers who engage with brands via Twitter do so silently, regularly reading tweets even though they do not have their own Twitter account.
# 45 percent of mothers with children living in the home identify themselves as ‘Deal Seekers’ and on average are a fan of 10 brands on Facebook, follow 10 companies on Twitter and receive 14 permission-based marketing emails daily.
# 33 percent of consumers identify themselves as Info Seekers, influenced most heavily by product reviews and other forms of user-generated content.
# While 28 percent of consumers under the age of 25 identify themselves as “social butterflies” and fan the most brands on Facebook, they are more likely to buy from companies that send them permission-based email.
“Simply understanding demographics of a customer group is no longer enough,” said Tim Kopp, ExactTarget’s chief marketing officer. “By bridging the gap between demographics and consumer motivations, the Social Profile research identifies unique personas that give marketers an entirely new level of understanding of consumer behavior.”
ExactTarget’s Social Profile study is the third research brief in ExactTarget’s six-part Subscribers, Fans & Followers research series set for release through September. The series provides marketers exclusive insight into how U.S. consumers’ interact with brands online based on a series of focus groups, interviews and surveys conducted in March and April. For more information about the study, to access an interactive application of the Subscribers, Fans & Followers data or to subscribe to receive future research briefs delivered via email, visit www.ExactTarget.com/sff.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Cisco Visual Networking Index Forecast 2009-2014
The Cisco Visual Networking Index (VNI) Forecast, 2009-2014, projects that global Internet traffic will increase more than fourfold to 767 exabytes -- or more than 3/4 of a Zettabyte, by 2014.
This amount is 100 exabytes higher than the projected level in 2013 -- or an increase the equivalent of 10 times all the traffic traversing Internet Protocol networks in 2008.
The growth in traffic will continue to be dominated by video, exceeding 91 percent of global consumer IP traffic by 2014. Improvements in network bandwidth capacity and Internet speeds, along with the increasing popularity of HDTV and 3DTV are key factors expecting to quadruple IP traffic from 2009 to 2014.
The Cisco VNI Forecast, which focuses on two primary user groups -- consumers and businesses -- was developed as an annual study to estimate global IP traffic growth and trends. Projections are based on Cisco analysis and modeling of traffic, usage, and device data from independent analyst sources. Cisco validates its forecast, inputs, and methodology with data provided by service providers worldwide.
Total Global IP Traffic in "Bytes"
Global IP traffic is expected to increase more than fourfold (4.3 times) from 2009 to 2014, reaching 63.9 exabytes per month in 2014, up from approximately 56 exabytes per month in 2013. This is equivalent to 766.8 exabytes per year -- almost three-quarters of a zettabyte, by 2014.
The nearly 64 exabytes of global IP traffic per month projected for 2014 is equivalent to 16 billion DVDs; 21 trillion MP3's; or 399 quadrillion text messages.
These projections, released by industry leader and industry giant, Cisco, http://www.ciscovnipulse.com/ provides information that can be used to develop a plan for the present, a five year plan, and the future. Not suggesting that any marketing plan should exclude traditional media. The analysis of the information provided by Cisco, along with additional research in your specific market will involve more time, more effort, and more strategy based on the ever-changing marketplace.
Is your company prepared to take bigger "Bytes" of the market...is your company still considering things...is your company ready to pull the trigger, or is this on the back burner?
And if so, that an internal decision, but I ask you to examine why? If you, and your company, ignore this research, it won't go away. What's your competition doing? Or, do you really know?
This amount is 100 exabytes higher than the projected level in 2013 -- or an increase the equivalent of 10 times all the traffic traversing Internet Protocol networks in 2008.
The growth in traffic will continue to be dominated by video, exceeding 91 percent of global consumer IP traffic by 2014. Improvements in network bandwidth capacity and Internet speeds, along with the increasing popularity of HDTV and 3DTV are key factors expecting to quadruple IP traffic from 2009 to 2014.
The Cisco VNI Forecast, which focuses on two primary user groups -- consumers and businesses -- was developed as an annual study to estimate global IP traffic growth and trends. Projections are based on Cisco analysis and modeling of traffic, usage, and device data from independent analyst sources. Cisco validates its forecast, inputs, and methodology with data provided by service providers worldwide.
Total Global IP Traffic in "Bytes"
Global IP traffic is expected to increase more than fourfold (4.3 times) from 2009 to 2014, reaching 63.9 exabytes per month in 2014, up from approximately 56 exabytes per month in 2013. This is equivalent to 766.8 exabytes per year -- almost three-quarters of a zettabyte, by 2014.
The nearly 64 exabytes of global IP traffic per month projected for 2014 is equivalent to 16 billion DVDs; 21 trillion MP3's; or 399 quadrillion text messages.
These projections, released by industry leader and industry giant, Cisco, http://www.ciscovnipulse.com/ provides information that can be used to develop a plan for the present, a five year plan, and the future. Not suggesting that any marketing plan should exclude traditional media. The analysis of the information provided by Cisco, along with additional research in your specific market will involve more time, more effort, and more strategy based on the ever-changing marketplace.
Is your company prepared to take bigger "Bytes" of the market...is your company still considering things...is your company ready to pull the trigger, or is this on the back burner?
And if so, that an internal decision, but I ask you to examine why? If you, and your company, ignore this research, it won't go away. What's your competition doing? Or, do you really know?
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Talent Retention Goes Global by N.C. Narayanan
People are not your most valuable asset, said Jim Collins, the RIGHT people are!
Finding and keeping good people is a global issue. But traditionally, most countries have lagged behind the United States in devoting attention to the issue and solving the inherent problems. Other countries have shown some indications of concern, but are months or years behind the United States in the seriousness of their approach.
Now, that gap is closing.
Read more: http://www.humanresourcesiq.com/article.cfm?externalID=2659#ixzz0tFgPHts0
Talent Retention Goes Global by N.C. Narayanan
Finding and keeping good people is a global issue. But traditionally, most countries have lagged behind the United States in devoting attention to the issue and solving the inherent problems. Other countries have shown some indications of concern, but are months or years behind the United States in the seriousness of their approach.
Now, that gap is closing.
Read more: http://www.humanresourcesiq.com/article.cfm?externalID=2659#ixzz0tFgPHts0
Talent Retention Goes Global by N.C. Narayanan
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Bill Aucoin on Inspiration with Lance Heft
12,198 views and counting.
Bill, you are an inspiration. Your energy, vision, talent, and gentleness will be missed.
RIP Bill. Thank you for KISS, and most of all, thank you for being you.
Bill, you are an inspiration. Your energy, vision, talent, and gentleness will be missed.
RIP Bill. Thank you for KISS, and most of all, thank you for being you.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Sugar Consumption Compared To Stevia
CHICAGO—According to a recently released report from Datamonitor, “The Future of Sweeteners: Consumer Insight and Product Opportunities,” U.S. consumer reliance on sugar and other caloric sweeteners is double the global average, accounting for 17.1% of their total energy intake. Germany and the Netherlands tie for second at 13.7%.
“As a source of energy, our love affair with anything sweet continues as we rely heavily on sugar and sweeteners,” notes Katrina Diamonon, consumer analyst, Datamonitor. “The United States is dependent upon sugar to keep going rather than more-nutritious foods such as cereals. U.S. energy from cereals is less than half that of the global average.”
U.S. consumers currently tend to focus more attention on cutting fat out of their diet rather than sugar. Some other countries have a much higher collective attention paid to the amount of sugar they consume. In the United Kingdom, 37% of consumers report that they pay a great deal of attention to the amount of sugar they consume. In Australia, that number climbs to 40%.
However, more U.S. consumers have begun basing product-purchasing decisions on nutritional criteria, with 51% using nutritional information on product packaging to make food and drink choices—a number that exceeds the global average of 44%. According to Datamonitor, this suggests consumers may be building awareness of their need to curb sugar intake and pay greater attention to nutritional choices.
As more people begin paying a higher degree of attention to the amount of sugar they consume, alternatives like stevia—a natural, calorie-free sweetener—are leading the way versus artificial sweeteners. As noted by Confectionerynews.com, Mintel has found that more than 100 stevia-containing products have been released in the United States this year—and progressively more are on the way. Mintel anticipates sales of stevia-sweetened products to hit $2 billion by 2011.
However, stevia still faces an uphill climb as formulators work to mitigate off-flavor issues—and deal with its high price tag, something that can be attributed to its early stage of market development.
Stevia is a genus of about 240 species of herbs and shrubs in the sunflower family (Asteraceae), native to subtropical and tropical regions from western North America to South America. The species Stevia rebaudiana, commonly known as sweetleaf, sweet leaf, sugarleaf, or simply stevia, is widely grown for its sweet leaves. As a sweetener and sugar substitute, stevia's taste has a slower onset and longer duration than that of sugar, although some of its extracts may have a bitter or licorice-like aftertaste at high concentrations.
With its extracts having up to 300 times the sweetness of sugar, stevia has garnered attention with the rise in demand for low-carbohydrate, low-sugar food alternatives. Medical research has also shown possible benefits of stevia in treating obesity and high blood pressure. Because stevia has a negligible effect on blood glucose, it is attractive as a natural sweetener to people on carbohydrate-controlled diets.
The availability of stevia varies from country to country. In a few countries, it has been available as a sweetener for decades or centuries; for example, stevia is widely used as a sweetener in Japan where it has been available for decades. In some countries, stevia is restricted or banned. In other countries, health concerns and political controversies have limited its availability; for example, the United States banned stevia in the early 1990s unless labeled as a supplement, but in 2008 approved rebaudioside-A extract as a food additive. Over the years, the number of countries in which stevia is available as a sweetener has been increasing.
In my opinion, stevia is an excellent and safe product that is on a upward swing in the United States.
Sources:
- Datamonitor: “The Future of Sweeteners: Consumer Insight and Product Opportunities”
- Confectionerynews.com: Concern over sugar consumption fuelling stevia market, analysts
- Food Product Design: Stevia's Rising, But U.S. Still Sweet on Sugar
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Comedienne Kathy Griffin Interviewed on "Inspiration with Lance Heft" (PBS Fall '10)
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The concept behind the new PBS Inspiration TV Show is the brainchild of TV and radio show host, author, and entrepreneur Lance Heft.Owner of several multimillion dollar companies, Heft authored a book describing how he was able to live the American dream. His strong desire to share this wisdom led to his quest to reach millions through TV and radio by interviewing successful people: celebrities including famous musicians, artists, and actors as well as everyday people such as small business owners, restaurateurs, and doctors.
One high-profile interview includes Emmy Award-winning comedienne Kathy Griffin who gives viewers a rare glimpse into a side of her multi-dimensional character.
Heft also interviewed Elliott Yamin won the hearts of millions when he appeared on American Idol. His journey reveals a man of true strength and conviction as he taps into his emotions and shares some of the sources of his greatest pain and joy.
Heft's motivation for bringing Inspiration to viewers was to create a forum so that people could be privy to the process of making the American dream tangible. His mission is to showcase the endless ways to realize the American dream through the living stories of those who have attained success, happiness, and fulfillment.
Visit online at: www.pbs-inspiration.org
For Media Interviews:
Diane T. Creston
President/Creative Director
Creston Advertising & Marketing, Inc.
212-400-8698
info@crestonadvertising.com
Friday, June 11, 2010
Microsoft responds to Google moving away from Windows, calls it ironic
Google made some waves earlier this week by reportedly moving employees off of Windows and onto Mac OS X and Linux machines -- although the company wouldn't confirm the switch, the move was said to be precipitated by security issues after Chinese hackers attacked the search giant back in January.
Now, that wasn't the only reason mentioned in the report -- Google apparently also wants employees to use home-grown products like Chrome OS, and it's sort of weird for Google to buy tons of software licenses from a major competitor -- but the implication that Windows isn't secure enough for Google seems to have raised Microsoft's hackles: a new post on the Windows Team Blog says the irony of the move is "hard to overlook" as Gmail and Google Docs have privacy and security issues of their own, offers a point-by-point breakdown of all the ways Windows 7 is more secure than the competition, and goes on to suggest that a recent piece of shady Mac OS X malware is "a future sign of things to come for Apple and security." Meow.
Now, we honestly think the real story is as simple as Google not wanting to write Microsoft a really big check, but we're not going to say no to a little fight here -- Eric, Steve, you have anything to say?
source Windows Team Blog
Now, that wasn't the only reason mentioned in the report -- Google apparently also wants employees to use home-grown products like Chrome OS, and it's sort of weird for Google to buy tons of software licenses from a major competitor -- but the implication that Windows isn't secure enough for Google seems to have raised Microsoft's hackles: a new post on the Windows Team Blog says the irony of the move is "hard to overlook" as Gmail and Google Docs have privacy and security issues of their own, offers a point-by-point breakdown of all the ways Windows 7 is more secure than the competition, and goes on to suggest that a recent piece of shady Mac OS X malware is "a future sign of things to come for Apple and security." Meow.
Now, we honestly think the real story is as simple as Google not wanting to write Microsoft a really big check, but we're not going to say no to a little fight here -- Eric, Steve, you have anything to say?
source Windows Team Blog
Monday, May 24, 2010
Announcing the dynamic new TV show "Inspiration with Lance Heft" Website Launch (PBS Fall '10):
The Inspiration TV show theme draws from people who are all around us...people who can help to change your perspective; and your life.
Just watch some of the show clips that feature a diverse range of guests who share their own personal inspiring stories and offer ideas and encouragement for leading the best life. Guests come from a variety of industries that include entertainment, business, journalism, medicine and the arts. They are united by one common thread: they have not only achieved a life that encompasses their passions, they are living examples of happiness, contentment, and generosity.
It is about discovering the resiliency and determination of the human spirit through the stories of others...and in the process, finding your own.
Guests include:
Jack & Suzy Welch
Long sought after for their practical and poignant advice in both life and business, Jack and Suzy share their wisdom and secrets about success.
Peter Max
Arguably one of the world's most famous living artists whose painting and art continues to define an Era. The interview goes behind the public persona and explores both the artist and the man.
New York City Animal Rights Activist Gene Baur
Gene Baur founded Farm Sanctuary to end cruelty to farm animals and to promote compassionate living through rescue, education, and advocacy. His ability to engage public and celebrity awareness for this valuable cause is remarkable and inspiring.
Gene's personal journey may open your eyes to the issues that are closest to his mission. His selfless passion demonstrates how you can take the causes that are dear to your heart and serve them in your life.
Visit Lance Heft's Inspiration on the web
www.pbs-inspiration.org
For media interviews, contact:
Diane T. Creston
Creston Advertising & Marketing, Inc.
New York, New York 10017
info@crestonadvertising.com
212-400-8698
Just watch some of the show clips that feature a diverse range of guests who share their own personal inspiring stories and offer ideas and encouragement for leading the best life. Guests come from a variety of industries that include entertainment, business, journalism, medicine and the arts. They are united by one common thread: they have not only achieved a life that encompasses their passions, they are living examples of happiness, contentment, and generosity.
It is about discovering the resiliency and determination of the human spirit through the stories of others...and in the process, finding your own.
Guests include:
Jack & Suzy Welch
Long sought after for their practical and poignant advice in both life and business, Jack and Suzy share their wisdom and secrets about success.
Peter Max
Arguably one of the world's most famous living artists whose painting and art continues to define an Era. The interview goes behind the public persona and explores both the artist and the man.
New York City Animal Rights Activist Gene Baur
Gene Baur founded Farm Sanctuary to end cruelty to farm animals and to promote compassionate living through rescue, education, and advocacy. His ability to engage public and celebrity awareness for this valuable cause is remarkable and inspiring.
Gene's personal journey may open your eyes to the issues that are closest to his mission. His selfless passion demonstrates how you can take the causes that are dear to your heart and serve them in your life.
Visit Lance Heft's Inspiration on the web
www.pbs-inspiration.org
For media interviews, contact:
Diane T. Creston
Creston Advertising & Marketing, Inc.
New York, New York 10017
info@crestonadvertising.com
212-400-8698
Saturday, May 22, 2010
April 2010 Retail Sales Movin' On Up
Retail sales continued an upward climb in April, showing much more consumer confidence compared to this time last year.
The Commerce Department says April retail sales rose 0.4 percent last month...better than the 0.2 percent increase economists had expected but far below the 2.1 percent surge in March. This overall gain marks the seventh straight monthly increase.
According to the National Retail Federation, April retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) increased 0.5 percent seasonally adjusted over March and 4.6 percent unadjusted year-over-year. With a constantly-shifting Easter holiday, retailers typically look at March and April sales combined to gauge consumer spending. Sales for the two months increased 5.6 percent unadjusted over last year.
“The slow road to recovery is turning into a sprint as retailers experienced a nice bounce in April,” said President and CEO Matt Shay. “But maintaining this sales momentum will be challenging. Until our economy begins to create jobs and reduce unemployment, the breadth and sustainability of this recovery remains uncertain.”
“Spring shopping and seasonal weather helped boost sales last month,” said Rosalind Wells, Chief Economist for NRF. “Spending on discretionary items had fallen by the wayside these last few years and we are encouraged to see consumers dipping into that pot once again.”
Monday, May 17, 2010
PRINCETON: Ex-WSJ chief addresses newspaper industry's distress
Monday, May 17, 2010 6:41 PM EDT By Fred Tuccillo, Managing Editor. The Princeton Packet | |
PRINCETON -- Peter R. Kann admits to a “lifelong love affair with newspapers,” but doesn’t shrink from acknowledging the contributions they have played in their own distress.
Addressing a 55PLUS gathering at the Jewish Center of Princeton Thursday, the former Dow Jones chairman said that publishers have managed to trap their papers and their websites into “a totally illogical business proposition.”
When newspapers began adapting to the Internet in the mid-1990s, Mr. Kann said, most major publishers were swayed by the argument all content offered there should be free of charge. Newspaper business models based on that argument “assumed there would be some enormous flow of Internet advertising that would pay for everything,” he said. “And that clearly has not happened.”
The flawed business strategy contributed to the current depressed state of newspapers, Mr. Kann said. ”It devalued the primary publishing asset, which is news,” he said. “It accelerated the decline of print circulations and of more profitable print advertising. It left the unprofitable Internet editions almost entirely dependent on their news flows from shrinking print staffs and basically left the publishers juggling these two twin products — the old ones in inexorable decline and the new ones in a form of commercial denial.”
Fifteen years into the era of free newspapers on the Internet, the flawed business model is the subject of furious discussion throughout the industry. The Wall Street Journal, which Mr. Kann once headed as editor and publisher, remains the most notable exception with more than a million paid subscribers to its online edition.
But it will require considerable nerve for most newspapers to make such a transition now, he said.
”Publishers are going to kind of have to pick their poison, which is to say, die slowly or take the risk of charging online and perhaps live on in this new form,” he said.
Mr. Kann did not place all of the industry’s woes at its own feet, however. He also addressed the role of technology and demographics, the latter hitting home with the 55PLUS audience. The organization is a non-sectarian group that promotes social contacts for people who are either retired or have flexible working hours.
Noting his own four children “all grew up in a home with two parents who were journalists,” he said, “and yet none of them these days regularly reads a newspaper, not in print and not even in a very regular way online. And you extend that across many millions of families, and, not surprisingly, newspapers around the country are shrinking in size and . . . circulation.”
The current generation, Mr. Kann said, “has actually grown up without the ingrained habit of reading newspapers but also, I’m afraid, with less recognition of what is news. I mean they are bombarded with a constant and confusing cascade of information and opinions and entertainment . . . They expect instant everything from fast foods to instant messaging to anything or everything in real time, 24/7. And they expect an almost limitless array of choices . . . Not surprisingly, this rather old-fashioned concept of a newspaper really is not for them.”
Yet, without the content from newspapers, Mr. Kann said, neither the Internet nor TV has demonstrated the capability of providing “flows of accurate and honest and trustworthy information . . . essential to the functioning of a free society or a democracy.”
Indeed, the digital capability to zero in on specific information is the antithesis of what Mr. Kann called “the serendipity of newspapers — which is to say that they tell me things I did not know I wanted to know.”
He said, “I like the fact that newspapers employ, train and count on reporters to go out and cover and uncover news. I like the fact that they have editors with some level of experience and judgment to kind of sift and sort and guide me as a reader to the most important developments. I like the organization of newspapers, including a format that separates, albeit not always perfectly, news from opinion.”
Mr. Kann expressed a less generous view of opinion-based blogs — “they may produce gossip at times, but they aren’t producing news” — and of the right/left cable competitors at Fox News and MSNBC — “talking heads yelling opinions at each other . . . political actors masquerading as journalists.”
But the retired reporter and Princeton resident, who won a 1972 Pulitzer Prize for overseas reporting, sees hope for the survival of serious news coverage in the students he teaches at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism.
”These are remarkably bright and engaged and idealistic young people, who are still being attracted to journalism even though the job prospects for them are much gloomier than when I began in this career,” Mr. Kann said. “I expect it is going to be these kids who are going to be able to create some new media models.”
ftuccillo@centraljersey.com
Addressing a 55PLUS gathering at the Jewish Center of Princeton Thursday, the former Dow Jones chairman said that publishers have managed to trap their papers and their websites into “a totally illogical business proposition.”
When newspapers began adapting to the Internet in the mid-1990s, Mr. Kann said, most major publishers were swayed by the argument all content offered there should be free of charge. Newspaper business models based on that argument “assumed there would be some enormous flow of Internet advertising that would pay for everything,” he said. “And that clearly has not happened.”
The flawed business strategy contributed to the current depressed state of newspapers, Mr. Kann said. ”It devalued the primary publishing asset, which is news,” he said. “It accelerated the decline of print circulations and of more profitable print advertising. It left the unprofitable Internet editions almost entirely dependent on their news flows from shrinking print staffs and basically left the publishers juggling these two twin products — the old ones in inexorable decline and the new ones in a form of commercial denial.”
Fifteen years into the era of free newspapers on the Internet, the flawed business model is the subject of furious discussion throughout the industry. The Wall Street Journal, which Mr. Kann once headed as editor and publisher, remains the most notable exception with more than a million paid subscribers to its online edition.
But it will require considerable nerve for most newspapers to make such a transition now, he said.
”Publishers are going to kind of have to pick their poison, which is to say, die slowly or take the risk of charging online and perhaps live on in this new form,” he said.
Mr. Kann did not place all of the industry’s woes at its own feet, however. He also addressed the role of technology and demographics, the latter hitting home with the 55PLUS audience. The organization is a non-sectarian group that promotes social contacts for people who are either retired or have flexible working hours.
Noting his own four children “all grew up in a home with two parents who were journalists,” he said, “and yet none of them these days regularly reads a newspaper, not in print and not even in a very regular way online. And you extend that across many millions of families, and, not surprisingly, newspapers around the country are shrinking in size and . . . circulation.”
The current generation, Mr. Kann said, “has actually grown up without the ingrained habit of reading newspapers but also, I’m afraid, with less recognition of what is news. I mean they are bombarded with a constant and confusing cascade of information and opinions and entertainment . . . They expect instant everything from fast foods to instant messaging to anything or everything in real time, 24/7. And they expect an almost limitless array of choices . . . Not surprisingly, this rather old-fashioned concept of a newspaper really is not for them.”
Yet, without the content from newspapers, Mr. Kann said, neither the Internet nor TV has demonstrated the capability of providing “flows of accurate and honest and trustworthy information . . . essential to the functioning of a free society or a democracy.”
Indeed, the digital capability to zero in on specific information is the antithesis of what Mr. Kann called “the serendipity of newspapers — which is to say that they tell me things I did not know I wanted to know.”
He said, “I like the fact that newspapers employ, train and count on reporters to go out and cover and uncover news. I like the fact that they have editors with some level of experience and judgment to kind of sift and sort and guide me as a reader to the most important developments. I like the organization of newspapers, including a format that separates, albeit not always perfectly, news from opinion.”
Mr. Kann expressed a less generous view of opinion-based blogs — “they may produce gossip at times, but they aren’t producing news” — and of the right/left cable competitors at Fox News and MSNBC — “talking heads yelling opinions at each other . . . political actors masquerading as journalists.”
But the retired reporter and Princeton resident, who won a 1972 Pulitzer Prize for overseas reporting, sees hope for the survival of serious news coverage in the students he teaches at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism.
”These are remarkably bright and engaged and idealistic young people, who are still being attracted to journalism even though the job prospects for them are much gloomier than when I began in this career,” Mr. Kann said. “I expect it is going to be these kids who are going to be able to create some new media models.”
ftuccillo@centraljersey.com
Networking Tips
Invite colleagues, friends, business contacts, suppliers, and relatives to join your social networking groups. If you serve on any boards, community associations, or if you're involved with religious groups, or networking groups, reach out to key people.
Update your status frequently with information about current projects, company news, helpful tips, etc.
Connect your Linkedin and Twitter accounts.
Answer and post questions on Linkedin to build your image and attract new contacts. As I've said before...be prepared for the fact that this takes time and effort.
Update your status frequently with information about current projects, company news, helpful tips, etc.
Connect your Linkedin and Twitter accounts.
Answer and post questions on Linkedin to build your image and attract new contacts. As I've said before...be prepared for the fact that this takes time and effort.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Join CRESTON on FACEBOOK
Creston Advertising & Marketing, Inc. Creston delivers award-winning campaigns, agility, and proven effectiveness in an increasingly challenging market.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/New-York-NY/Creston-Advertising-Marketing-Inc/149241040125?ref=ts
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Fighting the Tyranny of the Unemployed
Jobs are available now. You just need to know how to find them.
Burbank, California – April 8, 2010 –
New unemployment figures released today show an unexpected rise in new claims. Yet for those looking for work, there is hope.
“There are jobs available now,” says Mike Flanagan, author of Hollywood Jobs. “People just need to learn how to find them.” Flanagan has helped thousands of people find work in broadcasting, film and video post-production. His mantra is “Fighting the Tyranny of the Unemployed.” He helps people in all industries find work.
“With unemployment still near record levels, understanding how to find work is vital,” notes Flanagan.” Las Vegas has a near 13-percent unemployed rate and Flanagan wants to help that number drop dramatically. He is offering a free resume review to any attendee at the upcoming FREE “How to Get a Job” workshop and PinkSlipMixers.com on April 12th at the Luxor’s Aurora Lounge beginning at 4 pm.
“Mike’s book is the bible for job seekers,” adds Edwin Duterte, founder of PinkSlipMixers. “The book is a road map on how to find a job.” PinkSlipMixers is a venue where those who have been “pinksliped” can network with others looking for jobs and recruiters looking to fill positions.
Included in the seminar is a panel discussion of finding work in today’s economy with local Las Vegas career experts. The event will give practical tips on how to find work in today’s economy. And while the book focuses on behind the scenes entertainment jobs, the information presented is applicable to any job search. Unemployed from all industries are welcome at the Pinkslip event.
“For example, more jobs are being created with the new technology and media showcased this week at the NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) convention in town than ever before,” adds Flanagan. “Hollywood jobs (editors, graphic designers and animation professionals) are growing throughout the country in video games, Internet video and other entertainment industries. My techniques will work in any field from sales to executive positions.”
According to Flanagan, most people looking for work spend less than two hours a week looking for that new opportunity. “And when people do look, they use Internet job sites that don’t work.”
The free workshop will teach strategies Flanagan has developed in 15 plus years of hands on research. In addition to writing books, Flanagan teaches classes on finding jobs and is an entrepreneur. He holds a bachelors degree from the University of Nebraska and graduated from Cornell Law School.
CONTACT: MARK ALYN
805-480-1596
818-391-0308
Email: markalyncom@mac.com
Friday, February 26, 2010
"Entrepreneur Success Begins in the Mind"
Last tweet on "Entrepreneur Success Begins in the Mind" http://bit.ly/bOFeww . But it has to be more than a dream.
http://twitter.com/StartupPro
http://twitter.com/StartupPro
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Global IT spend to touch $3.4 trillion in 2010: - Gartner
BANGALORE: Worldwide IT spending would reach $3.4 trillion in 2010, a 4.6 per cent increase from 2009, IT research and advisory firm Gartner has
forecast.
A slow but steady improvement in the macroeconomic environment in 2010 should support a return to modest growth in overall IT spending, it said.
Although modest, this projected growth represents a significant improvement from 2009, when worldwide IT spending declined 4.6 per cent. All major segments (computing hardware, software, IT services, telecom, and telecom services) are expected to grow in 2010. continued
forecast.
A slow but steady improvement in the macroeconomic environment in 2010 should support a return to modest growth in overall IT spending, it said.
Although modest, this projected growth represents a significant improvement from 2009, when worldwide IT spending declined 4.6 per cent. All major segments (computing hardware, software, IT services, telecom, and telecom services) are expected to grow in 2010. continued
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