Info-tainment
The term “infotainment” was coined in the 1980s, and seemed to be a precursor to the age of convergence in media. However, the basic idea of infotainment is not a new one. In the 1950s, the morning news show format was pretty boring. A guy in a suit read the news, at a desk (in the 1950s it was always a guy) So NBC execs created a new format — The Today Show — in 1952 and “infotainment” was born. It was lighthearted, not serious. It was informative, but not boring. The original anchor Dave Garroway wasn’t a reporter. He was radio DJ and game show host with an easy going style, who sometimes bantered back and forth with a chimpanzee, J. Fred Muggs.
The new morning news format was quickly copied and spread to local affiliates on every network. Lead by perky personalities (think Katie Couric here) who read “soft news” stories, the Today Show became the perfect blend of information and entertainment. The Today Show is the longest running morning show, now in it’s 66th season, and it’s ratings have been strong for 65 of its 66 years (until recently).
I’ve always felt that the best marketing also informs and entertains. Super Bowl ads that are effective always achieve both. The same is true with local ads. You can watch any TV program and almost instantly see the difference. If it’s schlocky and uninteresting, people don’t pay attention, meaning they don’t notice the ad, and in turn they don’t have an attachment to it or remember it.
It ain’t rocket science. A great ad is memorable. A bad ad is forgettable. What kind would you like to have?
Me? I’ve always been a fan of chimpanzees.
Monday, April 30 – The Bangles
As if right on cue, my go-to SiriusXM station 80s on 8, played “Just Another Manic Monday” as I pulled into the parking lot.
At M+M, we’re breathing a little bit easier thanks
to our newest “officemate” — Poo-Pourri.
Tuesday, May 1 – Sue-perstar
I had to put down a few happy dollars for charity at my Rotary club meeting. I was thrilled that my “first lady” Sue was able to fill-in for me at the Chesterfield County Schools Students of the Year Banquet. Everyone said she did a great job. Check out the event in its entirety here.
My top-floor colleagues — Account Execs Leanne Ferry and Haleigh Lader, along with Business Manager Brandy Seay — got a sudden burst of spring fever when temps started rising on Tuesday. They saved me from eating lunch at my desk again and we all dined on the patio at Legend Brewery. We had to really work to convince Brandy that she didn’t need a passport to travel “south of the rivah.”
Wednesday, May 2 – Meeting the Future
One of the things I enjoy most is mentoring young people. Last month at the Virginia Press Association conference, I met a soon-to-be graduate of VCU named Dina Alemu, who has been interning for the association this semester. She attended my “Bold Brands Win” presentation and as I suggested connected to me on LinkedIn and scheduled some time to grab coffee. On Wednesday I met with Dina at Baker’s Crust and got the chance to learn a little more about her. I was impressed. If you have a chance, connect with Dina on LinkedIn.
Thursday, May 3 – My Affinity for Affinity
On Thursday, I put the finishing touches on my upcoming Affinity Marketing seminar. This will be the fourth seminar I’ve done on behalf of the Presbytery of The James. The seminar will be from 9:30 a.m. until noon on Tuesday, May 8 at The Brandermill Church (4500 Millridge Pkwy in Midlo). If you’d like to learn more about harnessing the power of partnerships, get your tickets today and I’ll see you there!
All of us at Madison+Main would like to wish super client Taryn Singleton from Sycamore Vet
a very happy birthday. Instead of a boring card, we made her this soon-to-be-viral Kitty Cat Dance Party video. Enjoy!
Calendar!
Madison+Main’s May 2018 Media Mixer
Casa del Barco – Short Pump
May 9
Join the Madison+Main-iacs and friends at Short Pump’s Casa del Barco on Wednesday, May 9 for our May Media Mixer! There will be delicious cocktails, yummy appetizers, and a door prize! Join us for a night of networking where the business world and the creative community can mix and mingle! RSVPs are not required, but are encouraged. Please feel free to bring a guest! To RSVP, e-mail Haleigh Lader at haleighl@madisonmain.com.
CrossKeys Vineyards 10-Year Anniversary BBQ
CrossKeys Vineyard – Mt. Crawford, VA
May 26
Join our friends at CrossKeys Vineyards on Memorial Day weekend to celebrate their delicious decade of award-winning wines, exquisite food, and great events! They are hosting a Smoked & Oaked Barbecue on Saturday, May 26, live music from Morgan Dean, and their tasting room will by open until 8 p.m. as well. Make your reservations today.
Boxer Brief 5K
Stoney Point Fashion Park
June 9
The Boxer Brief 5K is Hitting Cancer Below the Belt’s (HCB2’s) largest awareness and fundraising event which attracts over 400 participants each year. Participants are encouraged to dress their bum and come out to run making this a very entertaining good time. Fun for all ages as there is a free kids 1/2 mile race, the “Caped Colon Crusader” Run for children under the age of eight. Plenty of music, active vendors, entertaining costumes and cute kids in capes — just a great morning as we bring awareness to colon cancer prevention. Email info@HCB2.org or visit HCB2.org for more information.
Friday, May 4 – Bye Bye Bye!
Today, Leanne and Haleigh are both repping Madison+Main at Leadercast RVA. There was a great turnout and we were proud to co-sponsor such a wonderful event.
This week, we also opened the front door of our nest and gave our troupe of Spring interns a gentle yet firm nudge out into the real world. It was another great semester of learning, doing, and eating lots of free snacks and we want to congratulate them on their hard work. Thanks and good luck to Taylor Burress, Daniel Green, Mindy Yuan, Judy Jung, Maegan Kranz, and Stephanie Granata. Special congrats to Daniel, Stephanie, Judy, and Mindy who are graduating next week. Bye-Bye-Bye interns!
Graphic design intern Mindy Yuan brought in a delicious gluten-free cake from Shyndigz
to say thanks for a great semester. Her gluten-hating boss Art Webb was very appreciative.
“When I write an advertisement, I don’t want you to tell me that you find it ‘creative.’ I want you to find it so interesting that you buy the product.”
– David Ogilvy