Andrew Grewe

2011-05-10T21:15:00.002-06:00

2011-05-10T21:12:00.001-06:00

2011-05-10T21:07:00.002-06:00

Online Reputation: Mallory Hughes

2009-12-06T20:10:00.002-07:00

Researching online reputations is an eye opening experience. Here is what I was able to dig up on Mallory Hughes.
Mallory was born on Christmas Day of 1987.
7 months ago Mallory was married to Brady Allen, She appears to be happily married and looking forward to a future of marital bliss.

Mallory is originally from Bradyville, Tennesee. She graduated from Burley High School in Burley, Idaho. She is a member of the LDS church

Mallory is involved in the Public Relations department at USU and took Troy Oldham's intro to PR and Writing for PR from Preston Parker.
She is also currently involved in the Arts Bridge program with Utah Public Radio.

She is employed by The Sports academy and Racket club as a sales person.

I found an interesting blog entry written by Mallory about the hit show "Dexter". It is a show about a forensics worker who moonlights as a serial killer. Mallory argues that like Dexter we all live a double lives and that Dexter is doing society a favor by killing people who deserve it. She ends with this quote "Evil is in the eye of the beholder. One man's killing is another man's salvation. Call it what you want- to me, Dexter is a hero"

Overall Mallory's online rep. is pretty good. There is nothing harmful to her reputation nor is there anyone else that is contreversial on her sites.

Fun With Photoshop

2009-11-19T19:16:00.006-07:00

I may have gotten too artistic with this one but I used 3 main layers. The back ground I filtered and brought out the greens using filters. Then I took most of the color out of my wife and I and erased the remainder of the immage. With the flower I added a outer glow via the FX button

This one was simple, I took the color layer and then took the black and white and erased around the leaf, then brought out the yellow to make it more brilliant.

BURGER PLANET POSITION FINAL

2009-11-12T22:31:00.001-07:00

Mr. James E. Muellenbach III, CEO
Board of Burger Planet

To clearly brand burger planet as the leader among family oriented quick-serve restaurants. One clear statement needs to be driven in to the heads of consumers:

Burger Planet believes in providing delicious and nutritious meals for the modern American family.

The demographic where there is the most potential for growth is Middle Age Women who are health conscious. By showing support healthy lifestyles, Women will feel more comfortable eating with their families at Burger Planet. Burger Planet will avoid the “fast food” stigma and the negative branding that comes from those stereotypes. A new national survey of more affluent consumers from strategic marketing communications firm Context Marketing concluded that some consumers are willing to pay more for foods they believe to be healthy and safe. According to the study “While respondents confirmed that low price is a major influence on most food purchases, 60 percent said they would pay up to 10 percent more for food they think is healthier, safer or produced according to higher ethical standards, and 14 percent said they would pay a premium greater than 10 percent.”

To show supports of healthy lifestyles Burger Planet will:
• Add new menu items such as Fruit packets and Salads

• Seek the help of Jayne Petersen as the face of the healthy lifestyles campaign
-Jayne will appear in the next round of Burger planet commercials and Advertisements targeted at media outlets frequented by women

• Nation wide tour to educate consumers
-Tour will be in BP restaurants and Shopping Malls.
-Jayne Petersen speak to consumers and hand out literature based on the research below.
- Corny the Clown will assist to entertain and educate children.

The Following is research that will be included in the Literature, Advertising and Speeches of the Healthy lifestyles campaign.
A 2007 study sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services found that:

* 25.6% of families were obese.
* 26.4% of men and 24.8% of women were obese.
* The obesity prevalence ranged from 19.1% for men and women aged 18–29 years to 31.7% and 30.2%, respectively, for men and women aged 50–59 years.
* By race/ethnicity and sex the obesity prevalence was highest for non-Hispanic black women (39.0%) followed by non-Hispanic black men (32.1%).
* The obesity prevalence was higher in the South (27.3%) and Midwest (26.5%) and lower in the Northeast (24.4%) and West (23.1%).

Obesity is now recognized as a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attack. Some reasons for this higher risk are known, but others are not. For example, obesity

* raises blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
* lowers HDL "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is linked with lower heart disease and stroke risk, so reducing it tends to raise the risk.
* raises blood pressure levels.
* can induce diabetes. In some people, diabetes makes these other risk factors much worse. The danger of heart attack is especially high for these people

In order to ensure that A emphasis on healthy foods does not alienate more traditional burger planet customers additional advertising will be done emphasizing the classic American meals of Burgers, Fries and Colas. These Ads will include a brief history of the Burger Planet traditions.

Evaluation

At the conclusion of the Nation Wide tour, Focus groups will be conducted to see if:
Women are now more likely to bring come to Burger Planet
Traditional Burger Planet customers are still enjoying there visits
Jayne Petersen affected their decision to Visit Burger Planet.

As PR professionals we feel that emphasizing Burger Planet as a Family friendly business with the satisfaction and well being of the entire family as its motivation will be an effective strategy to make Burger Planet the Top Quick-Sever Restaurant chain in America.

Sincerely,
Kari Selin
Emily Craw
John Zeugschmidt
Andrew Grewe

On the Internet No One Knows You're a Dog.

2009-11-06T11:55:00.003-07:00

I love this link. The best thing about interaction on the internet is that people don't know who you are unless you want them to. The worst thing about interaction on the internet is you have no idea who they are. I have had mixed experiences, I have core group of ski buddies that I met on the internet. They are great folks whom I would have never met if it wasn't for an internet forum. I also have online enemies. I have never met them but they are sure to find things that I publish online and criticize it. I have no idea why they dislike me, perhaps I posted something they disagree with. I also have no idea if these are 7 foot tall ultimate fighter or a jaded pre-pubecent girl trying to get after me.
From my experiences I have become cautious in interacting with strangers of the internet. Be careful and take everything with a grain of salt.

Photo Shop Assignment

2009-11-06T11:31:00.003-07:00

Press Release 4 Final

2009-10-15T23:28:00.002-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 13th, 2009

Beaver Mountain Ski Area Seeks to Promote Skiing to Students

Few winter traditions have been part of Cache Valley longer than skiing at Beaver Mountain. For 70 years Skiers and Boarders have trekked up Logan canyon and found some of the best snow and cheapest lift tickets in the country. This winter Beaver Mountain is reaching out to students to help them find an affordable escape from the rigors of student life.

$270 will get students an unlimited season pass for the entire 2009-2010 season. That price is staggering in comparison to $500 student passes offered by most of Utah's other resorts. The regular day pass price is $40, meaning that season pass holders that ski more than 7 times this season are in for huge savings. As always, Season pass holders will receive a 10% discount in the ski shop.

Cindy Allen, Beaver Mountain office manager said, “We understand that students can't afford big money for a season pass, We want them to enjoy skiing and boarding and still have enough money to eat!”

In an effort to invite new skiers and boarding students the the mountain, The Beaver Mountain Rental shop is offering season rental packages from $99.

The University will also bring back its popular skiing and snowboarding classes taught be ski instructors from the mountain. Students in the class will receive huge discounts on rental and lift passes as well as University credit.

“Skiing is the only reason Logan is bearable in the winter, Beaver has great snow, no lines and the only season pass I can afford.” said junior Adam Snow.

The Season Pass prices are valid until November 9th. Students must bring a picture ID and a printed class schedule with their full name on it. The Logan office will be reopening on October 15th from 9 am-5:30 pm. The office is located at 1351 E. 700 N. next to Frederico's Pizza

Beaver Mountain Ski Area is family owned and operated since 1939. Located 29 miles up Logan Canyon, it Features 664 skiable acres and an average annual snowfall of 400 inches. Beaver Mountain knows what families need and promises one of the best skiing experiences around.

Contact: Andrew Grewe
A.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
435-754-6272
-end-

Media Pitch FInal

2009-10-15T23:26:00.000-06:00

Cache Valley Area Investors Association Helps Valley Residents Achieve Financial Independence.

Dear David,

This Organization was Started with your readers in mind, we think they could really benefit from a knowledge of the association

In an economic climate that has shown to be extremely volatile over the past year, it is clear that having several sources of income is becoming a necessity. The Cache Valley Area Investors Association is striving to help minimize the risk of investment through education.

The association believes that anyone can achieve financial independence by using passive income, or income that requires no current thought. By making enough passive income to pay expenses, investors are free to spend time and resources doing things they enjoy.

The association meets every other Thursday to hear from guest speakers and discuss theories of smart investment. The next meeting will be on October 1st in the Cache Valley Chamber of Commerce at 160 N. Main in Logan.

Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA) teaches people how to increase passive income. CVAIA embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber, The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged, The Automatic Millionaire, and the Secret. CVAIA began in August 2007and now has members from many geographical locations and from all walks of life. The members come together with the same belief: that education mitigates the risks of investing.

I can set up interviews with Preston Parker, the founder of the association, or any of the club members. I can also provide you with any of the text the club uses. Please let me know if I can do anything to assist your coverage
sincerely,
Andrew Grewe
A.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
www.CVAIA.com
435-754-6272

Media pitch draft

2009-10-13T19:24:00.001-06:00

Cache Valley Area Investors Association Helps Valley Residents Achieve Financial Independence.

Dear David,

This Organization was Started with your readers in mind, we think they could really benefit from a knowledge of the association

In an economic climate that has shown to be extremely volatile over the past year, it is clear that having several sources of income is becoming a necessity. The Cache Valley Area Investors Association is striving to help minimize the risk of investment through education.

The association believes that anyone can achieve financial independence by using passive income, or income that requires no current thought. By making enough passive income to pay expenses, investors are free to spend time and resources doing things they enjoy.

The association meets every other Thursday to hear from guest speakers and discuss theories of smart investment. The next meeting will be on October 1st in the Cache Valley Chamber of Commerce at 160 N. Main in Logan.

Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA) teaches people how to increase passive income. CVAIA embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber, The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged, The Automatic Millionaire, and the Secret. CVAIA began in August 2007and now has members from many geographical locations and from all walks of life. The members come together with the same belief: that education mitigates the risks of investing.

I can Set up interviews with Preston Parker, the president of the club or any of the club members. I can also provide you with any of the text the club uses. Please let me know if I can do anything to assist your coverage
sincerely,
Andrew Grewe
A.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
www.CVAIA.com
435-754-6272

Press Release 4

2009-10-13T18:58:00.001-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 13th, 2009

Beaver Mountain Ski Area Offers Many Programs for Students

Few winter traditions have been part of Cache Valley longer than skiing at Beaver Mountain. For 70 years Skiers and Boarders have escape up the canyon and find some of the best snow and cheapest lift tickets in the country. This winter Beaver Mountain is reaching out to students to help them find an affordable escape from the rigors of student life.

$270 will get students an unlimited season pass for the entire 2009-2010 season. That price is staggering in comparison to $500 student passes offered by most of Utah's other resorts. The regular day pass price is $40, meaning that season pass holders that ski more than 7 times this season are in for huge savings. As always, Season pass holders will receive a 10% discount in the ski shop.

Cindy Allen of Beaver Mountain said, “ We understand that students can't afford big money for a season pass, We want them to enjoy skiing and boarding and still have enough money to eat!”

In an effort to invite new skiers and boarding students the the mountain, The Beaver Mountain Rental shop is offering season rental packages from $99.

The University will also bring back its popular skiing and snowboarding classes taught be ski instructors from the mountain. Students in the class will receive huge discounts on rental and lift passes as well as University credit.

“Skiing is the only reason Logan is bearable in the winter, Beaver has great snow, no lines and the only season pass I can afford.” said Junior Adam Snow.

The Season Pass prices are valid until November 9th. Students must bring a picture ID and a printed class schedule with their full name on it. The Logan office will be reopening on October 15th from 9 am-5:30 pm. The office is located at 1351 E. 700 N. next to Frederico's Pizza

Beaver Mountain Ski Area is family owned and operated since 1939. Located 29 miles up Logan Canyon, it Features 664 skiable acres and an average annual snowfall of 400 inches. Beaver Mountain knows what families need and promises one of the best skiing experiences around

Contact: Andrew Grewe
A.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
435-754-6272
-end-

Press Release 3: Final

2009-09-28T20:05:00.001-06:00

CONTACT:

Andrew Grewe
Cache Valley Area Investors Association
160 N. Main St.
Logan, UT 84321
435-754-6272
a.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
http://www.cvaia.com

For immediate release:
Thursday September 24, 2009

Financial Independence through Passive income: Helping you Follow your dreams.

In an economic climate that has shown to be extremely volatile over the past year, it is clear that having several sources of income is becoming a necessity. The Cache Valley Area Investors Association is striving to help minimize the risk of investment through education.

The association believes that anyone can achieve financial independence by using passive income, or income that requires no current thought. By making enough passive income to pay expenses, investors are free to spend time and resources doing things they enjoy.

“There is way too much opportunity in America to hate your job,” said Preston Parker, President of the CVAIA.

The association meets every other Thursday to hear from guest speakers and discuss theories of smart investment. The next meeting will be on October 1st in the Cache Valley Chamber of Commerce at 160 N. Main in Logan.

Cache Valley Area Investors Association (CVAIA) teaches people how to increase passive income. CVAIA embraces the Law of Attraction, Law of Abundance, and Law of Exchange. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber, The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged, The Automatic Millionaire, and the Secret. CVAIA began in August 2007and now has members from many geographical locations and from all walks of life. The members come together with the same belief: that education mitigates the risks of investing.

-end-

Press Release 3 : draft

2009-09-24T14:47:00.001-06:00

CONTACT:

Andrew Grewe
Cache Valley Area Investors Association
160 N. Main St.
Logan, UT 84321
435-754-6272
a.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
http://www. cvaia.com

For immediate release:
Thursday September 24, 2009

Financial Independence through Passive income: Helping you Follow your dreams.
In an economic climate that has shown to be extremely volatile over the past year, it is clear that having several sources of income is becoming a necessity. The Cache Valley Area Investors Association is striving to help minimize the risk of investment through education.
The association believes that anyone can achieve financial independence by using passive income, or income that requires no current thought. It teaches that you are free to work on something you are passionate about if your passive income covers your expenses.
“There is way too much opportunity in America to hate your Job,” said Preston Parker, President of the CVAIA.
The Club meets every other Thursday to hear from guest speakers and discuss theories of smart investment. The next meeting will be on October 1st, in the Cache Valley Chamber of Commerce at 160 N. Main in Logan.
Cache Valley Area Investors Association teaches people how to increase passive income. They practice the methods found in the ideologies of books including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Wealthy Barber , The Millionaire Next Door, Atlas Shrugged and The Secret.

Press Release 2: Final

2009-09-24T13:36:00.003-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:

Andrew Grewe
Burger Planet
555-555-1111
a.grewe@bugerplanet.com
http://www.burgerplanet.com

Jayne Petersen Teams Up With Burger Planet to Promote Healthy Lifestyles

(Gary, Indiana, May 1h, 2010) – Opal Whitcomb's personal trainer Jayne Petersen has announced that she will work with quick serve restaurant Burger Planet on a nation wide campaign to promote healthy living.
Petersen is president and CEO of Looking glass, Inc., A multi-million dollar fitness enterprise in Burbank, Calif. She is best known for helping Opal Whitcomb lose 75 pounds and keep it off. Her book, "Looking Good in a Leotard" stayed on the best seller list for over a year.

Petersen will launch her campaign at the Burger Planet franchise at Times Square in New York on May 12th, She will then head out on a nation wide tour with Burger Planet mascot Corny the Clown.

"Burger Planet has been a leader in the Quick Service Restaurant industry in offering healthy menu choices. The company believes in encouraging customers to live healthier, active lifestyles and I have spent my life trying to teach women that lesson,” said Peterson.

In conjunction with the tour, Burger planet has added several more healthy choices to its menu, including low-carb chicken and lettuce wraps, fruit packets and gourmet salads. Petersen will also work with Burger Planet chefs to make a new Smiley meal for kids that includes the new menu options.
Burger planet CEO James E. Muellenbach III said,”I want our customers to realize that Burger Planet is committed to offering healthy choices on its menu. The hiring of Jayne Petersen fits perfectly in the company's overall focus on healthy lifestyles."

The national tour will last through July and and visit several Burger Planet Restaurants and shopping malls. Petersen will provide fans with nutritional packets and answer questions on how to live a healthy life.

Burger Planet is the leader of the Quick Service Restaurant Industry. They have served 52 billion customers since 1934. At last count, they had 8,921 franchises in every state and 17 countries. Burger planet is headquartered in Gary, Indiana. Employs 48,272 people; Company founder James E. Muellenbach I, although retired, is current president of the QSR Association. For more information Contact Andrew Grewe at 555-555-1111 or Email a.grewe@burgerplanet.com
(END)

Personal Branding

2009-09-24T00:47:00.002-06:00

I constantly live in fear that no one will recognize that I am different that the person around me. Ok, so that may have been a dramatic overstatement, But some part of it is true. I appreciate the unique and enjoyed reading this article on why it is essential for aspiring journalists and PR students need to develop a distinct presence to represent themselves.
In an age where any potential employer or collaborator or donor or potential father-in-law can Google you it is vital that you have your best foot forward when that happens. The best ways to do that are described here.

It is vital that people know who I am and why I am such a great catch. The internet is a loaded weapon that if I don't use to my advantage, probably will come back to hurt me.

Here is what comes up if you Google Andrew Grewe

Press Release 2: Draft

2009-09-22T13:15:00.002-06:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:

Andrew Grewe
Burger Planet
555-555-1111
a.grewe@bugerplanet.com
http://www.burgerplanet.com

Jayne Petersen Teams Up With Burger Planet to Promote Healthy Lifestyles

(Gary, Indiana, May 1h, 2010) – Opal Whitcomb's personal trainer Jayne Petersen has announced that she will work with quick serve restaurant Burger Planet on a nation wide campaign to promote healthy living.
Petersen is president and CEO of Looking glass, Inc., A multi-million dollar fitness enterprise in Burbank, Calif. She is best known for helping Opal Whitcomb lose 75 pounds and keep it off. Her book, "Looking Good in a Leotard" stayed on the best seller list for over a year.
Petersen will launch her campaign at the Burger Planet franchise at Times Square in New York on May 12th, She will then head out on a nation wide tour with Burger Planet mascot Corny the Clown.
"Burger Planet has been a leader in the Quick Service Restaurant industry in offering healthy menu choices. The company believes in encouraging customers to live healthier, active lifestyles and I have spent my life trying to teach women that lesson,” said Peterson.
In conjunction with the tour, Burger planet has added several more healthy choices to its menu, including low-carb chicken and lettuce wraps, fruit packets and gourmet salads. Petersen will also work with Burger Planet chefs to make a new Smiley meal for kids that includes the new menu options.
Burger planet CEO James E. Muellenbach III said,”I want our customers to realize that Burger Planet is committed to offering healthy choices on its menu. The hiring of Jayne Petersen fits perfectly in the company's overall focus on healthy lifestyles."
The national tour will last through July and and visit several Burger Planet Restaurants and shopping malls. Petersen will provide fans with nutritional packets and answer questions on how to live a healthy life.
Burger Planet is the leader of the Quick Service Restaurant Industry. They have served 52 billion customers since 1934. At last count, they had 8,921 franchises in every state and 17 countries. Burger planet is headquartered in Gary, Indiana. Employs 48,272 people; Company founder James E. Muellenbach I, although retired, is current president of the QSR Association. For more information Contact Andrew Grewe at 555-555-1111 or Email a.grewe@burgerplanet.com
(END)

Netiquette

2009-09-16T21:27:00.002-06:00

Today I read articles on the basics of email and internet etiquette. Most of it was pretty common sense stuff. I chuckled a little when I read the entry on avoiding ALL CAPS emails because my father is a two finger, all caps typer. Every time I get an email from him I feel like he is yelling at me. I think it highlighted to me one of the very important aspects of online communication. We have to remember that much of face to face communication we do is based on context, body language, tone and eye contact. We lose this in online communication. Because of this it is important to be clear and to the point and try to avoid sarcasm or inappropriate humor to avoid problems. Also, a adhering to basic elements of style helps everyone understand you better.

Press Release Final

2009-09-15T13:51:00.000-06:00

World Wide Social Media Club Starts Up Local Chapter
Social Media Club of Cache valley seeks to educate on the powerful influence of social media
Logan, UT-
The Social Media Club of Cache valley was established in June to educate valley residents on the ever increasing influence of Social Media in both business and private life.
Chapter President Preston Parker wants the club to "“become the voice of social media technology.”
The club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6'30 pm at different locations through the valley. People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to attend the free meetings.
The next meeting will be held Thursday, September 10th at Club New york in Logan. Blogger Loralee Choate will explain how her blogging caught the attention of the White House.
The Social Media Club of Cache Valley was founded in June of 2009. It currently has 26 official members including a board of seven social media experts. New Members are always welcome.
Please visit www.SMCCV.com for more information.

Andrew Grewe
A.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
435-754-6272

-end-

2160: HTML, web design, and miracles.

2009-09-10T12:24:00.005-06:00

Recently, In Shane's class we learned the basics of HTML codes. It was one of those moments where I took a step back and marveled at modern technology. How is it that typing with lots of ////, <<< >>> and random words can create the memorizing websites that are out there today. Instead of doing a very good job of listening to my dedicated instructor I let my mind wonder who came up with this and how they made it work. I have no Idea. We live in a world of technological miracles and as I learn the basics of online journalism and the power of the internet, I think I'll enjoy the ride a little more if I take the time to marvel at what I am learning. Maybe, you'll take my advice or maybe you'll think I am stupid. Either way, I just typed a message into a white box at my apartment and your reading it right now and that is just cool.

Press Realease 1: Announcment

2009-09-08T13:57:00.005-06:00

World Wide Social Media Club Starts Up Local Chapter
Social Media Club of Cache valley seeks to educate on the powerful influence of social media
Logan, UT-
The Social Media Club of Cache valley was established in June to educate valley residents on the ever increasing influence of Social Media in both business and private life.
Chapter President Preston Parker wants the club to "“become the voice of social media technology.”
The club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6:30 pm at different locations through the valley. People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to attend the free meetings.
The next meeting will be held Thursday, September 10th at Club New york in Logan. Blogger Loralee Choate will explain how her blogging got her to the white house.
The Social Media Club of Cache Valley was founded in June of 2009. It currently has 26 official members including a board of seven social media gurus. New Members are always welcome.
Please visit www.SMCCV.com for more information.

Andrew Grewe
A.grewe@aggiemail.usu.edu
435-754-6272

-end-

2310: United Breaks Guitars

2009-09-02T20:31:00.005-06:00

In the Disney film “Newsies” a group of misfit poor kids from 19th century New York are exploited by media mogul Joseph Pulitzer. The group led by Jack Kelly (played by Christian Bale) print their own newspaper and distribute it to the common folk of New York. With the power of the masses behind them they get their voices heard by Pulitzer and ultimately he backs down. It is a classic underdog/ power of the press story mixed in a with an extremely cheesy montage of singing and dancing.
Stories like this made good movies because it could qualify as fantasy. Instances where one person or small group of people could get the attention of a major corporation are few and far between, until now.
I found the story of David Carroll to be worthy of a best selling book. When Carroll was flying through Chicago in 2008 he witnessed United airlines baggage handlers throwing his $3500 Taylor guitar out on the tarmac. After getting to his destination he discovered that $1200 worth of damage had been done to his guitar.
Carroll soon found him self lost in a maze of United customer service claims; a process that lasted nearly a year. During his last call with United where Carroll was told he would receive no compensation he vowed to tell his story to the world through song.
Carroll decided to write 3 songs and publish them on You tube. 'United Breaks Guitars” was the first of the trilogy reaching over 5 million views. The second is approaching 500,000. The third installment will be out soon.
The effects of this campaign exceeded Carroll's expectations. Some reports suggest that the incident could have cost United $180 million due to the rapid decrease in stock prices after the release of the video.
United approached Carroll after the first film and offered him $1200 cash and $1200 in flight vouchers. Carroll rejected the offer and said that it wasn't about the money, it was about the customer service. He suggested United donate that money to a charity. Carroll's album sales and overall fame have skyrocketed in the wake of this campaign.
United never saw this coming. I can't fault them for that. They have customer service policies and protocols that are set up to save the company money. I suspect that the employees Carroll dealt with only did as they were told. However, given the massive impact of this case, United and every other company needs to take a hard look at how to deal with social media and its consequences.
I have lots of respect for David Carroll, the manner in which he s followed through on his promise and his extremely creative idea deserves huge props. However, he may have created a monster. The biggest issue with web 2.0 is that any one can say anything true or false mostly without consequences. It is not unimaginable that web savvy people could black mail a company by doing what Carroll did.
Here is a example scenario: I buy a pair of skis from Rossignol, one of the largest ski companies in the world. Somewhere along the line I break my skis. It was my fault and Rossignol has no liability in the situation. I could call Rossignol and demand a new pair of skis or else I will let the world know that their skis are the least durable hunks of junk I have ever skied on. They reject my demand so I spend a day making a comedic youtube video about how crappy these skis were. Send it to my 400 Facebook friends, twitter it with lots of keywords, post it on Digg and get my friends to digg it. Even if my message doesn't get beyond my own circle of acquaintances, I have probably convinced a few hundred people,who know I am an avid skier, that they should avoid Rossignol skis. In the long run it may have been a better decision for Rossignol to give me a new pair of skis just to keep my mouth shut. I am not advocating this form of social media terrorism. I am pointing out how simple it is for anyone to defame or libel anything. As my father points out to me all the time, once you put it on the internet it can't be taken back no matter what you do. The implications of this case are huge.
As pr professional I'm not sure what I would do if I were working for United. If they attack or even appear to attack Carroll they will do even more damage to their reputation. If they change their claims policy they may end up losing money. If they appear to do nothing they won't win back any of their lost consumers. In my opinion the best option is to publicize this as an isolated incident, take some action to reprimand those workers in Chicago that were responsible and issue a memo to the company to never ever ever let workers be seen throwing baggage again.

Here is the video "United Breaks Guitars"

2310: Letter to my cousin

2009-08-31T22:05:00.003-06:00

Dear Luke,
Recently you asked me what public relations was and why I was majoring in it. My sarcastic reply was that I wanted to major in marketing but I failed out of math. The truth is, pubic relations is a very diverse field that is needed in every major industry.
A commonly used definition or public relations is “ The practice of managing the flow of information between an organization and its publics.” The success every organization, wether it is a multi-national corporation, A political campaign or a local small business depends on the image it presents to its market, investors and employees. Public Relations combines elements of marketing, journalism, advertising, public speaking and event planning to create a clear messages to the public.
Take for example one of your favorite drinks: Red Bull. Red Bull is no longer just a drink with lots of a caffeine. It has become a brand that represents a lifestyle. This did not happen only because of advertising. Red Bull has a comprehensive public relations strategy which includes sponsoring events in almost every extreme sport. They manage and fund a group of sky diving athletes called the “Red Bull Air Force.” They grant interviews to journalist to talk about the success of the company. They carefully select where there logo and presence is seen. All of this has a specific purpose. They try to instill one simple message into your mind. If you want to live the “extreme” lifestyle you need to drink Red Bull. I suspect you would have to agree that they have been successful in this strategy.
In the course of my career I may end up coming up with a radio commercial one day and planning a VIP event the next day. At some point I could work on a presidential campaign and later end up developing a plan to recruit high school students to attend a university. It is a diverse, exciting and growing field. I Hope this letter answered your questions and finds you well.
Sincerely, Andrew

5 Reasons I Started this Blog

2009-08-27T14:04:00.000-06:00

1. My Public Relations professor required it.
2. My sweet wife is tired of hearing all of my thoughts and commentary, so they will now appear on this blog.
3. My Father always warns me about putting personal things on the internet. This is my last great act of rebellion.
4. I really like to write. I really need some practice at editing.
5. Someday, I want to prove to my kids that I was once cool, liberal and free thinking. There is a quote attributed to Churchill that says ""If you're not Liberal when you're 25, you have no heart. If you're not Conservative when you're 35, you have no brain." When I am an old man with few teeth who thinks that the world and its young are going to hell in a hand basket, it will be nice to have the reminder the "cool" guy I once was.

Enjoy this video of me skiing across a pond.