THESIS: IYOW 1 sentence thesis statement.
This movie explains how U.S news coverage today is doctored or conveyed similar to hollywood films or reality television resulting in manipulation of americans opinions on due to war packaged for pleasurable consumption, and propaganda of global issues and current events.
FACTS: 5 "facts" from the film.
1. Country musicians created songs to encourage and support war, the most popular artists who did this were Keith Urban and Derrick Shirle.
2. According to this movie, what we consider war has changed dramatically from what our grandparents impression of it was.
3. the clean war wiped the humanity of the baghdad civilizations from the screen.
4. The hunting metaphor gave a selective view making it seem as if we were on a "hunt" for saddam and not innocent bystanders.
5. The iraq war coverage on television, became such a popular watched program that the NCAA final four was viewed by a lot less people, as a matter of fact it was viewed as more important then the sporting events going on in that time.
TRIUNE BRAIN: 3 specific observations.
1. Neocortex was stimulated through the reading of textual facts on the screen and also through the narration featured throughout the video.
2. The limbic was stimulated by the many varying genres of music found within the movie, such as country, and new age rock and roll.
3. The reptilian, limbic brain was stimulated by the pictures of injured and bloody people while background voices where saying "blood every where".
8 TRENDS: 3 specific SHIFTS (From X to Y).
1. Technological Shift: From analog to digital. In past wars broadcasts had taken part mostly on the radio however now having this available through the internet and television it has changed the way we perceive it, we now believe what we see on these broadcasts.
2. Aesthetic Shift: from discrete to convergence, having updates or news flashes available on smart phones and other relatively new devices provides for not only a better idea of what is going on in wars and in the news but it also provides for more chance of a biased opinion.
3. Political shift: the deregulation affects the broadcasts of political information and press releases. This impacts the information or data us citizens receive. This changes or sculpts our idea or opinion on the latest news or war updates.
PRINCIPLES: ASK and answer FOUR specific PRINCIPLE-related questions ("What "reality" does this film create? What are some "untold stories" the film ignores? etc.).
1. What reality does this film create? This film creates the reality that America manipulates its citizens opinions and views on wars and global issues. It made this apparent by providing side by side comparisons of U.S and global broadcasts. The U.S uses propaganda and other techniques to create biased and in most situations inaccurate summaries or stories.
2. What kid on production techniques does this movie use? This movie uses several editing techniques that help increase its dramatic affects and make truly obvious how the United States uses propaganda and other tools to manipulate our views.These include montage of different U.S broadcasts that clearly show biased opinions, or also comparing side by side U.S and Global broadcasts displaying the sever differences between the two even though they were speaking on the same events or subjects.
3.What kind of value messages does this media promote? This movie promotes the idea that U.S uses propaganda and is not a truly accurate source for news or coverage on global or political events. It shows through much evidence that the United States has been providing biased coverage and edits or hides certain aspects or opinions to news for a while.
4. What emotions does this media tap? What might we consider if we think more deeply about this media? This movie provokes aggravation, confusion, and questioning. I was aggravated after learning the U.S has and remains biased when speaking of the news or wars
6. PERSUASION: Identify and provide an example of at least SIX specific persuasive techniques.
Symbols- This movie features several meaningful symbols, some include the soldiers in combat, The American Flag, the american coffins with the flags over them.
Big Lie- The movie explains how the United States has been altering news or events in order to lie or manipulate us, citizens.although this is true they convey it to a deep extent.
Hyperbole- They persuaded by making large claims however most of them were true and backed up with evidence. Examples included comparisons of old news casts.
Scapegoating- Although it is proven that the news is using propaganda and other techniques, they are completely blaming the U.S. for it.
Nationalism- This movie encourages support of the United States and our position in war however puts down our news reports.
Testimonial- The narrator provides testimony on several examples of news and how it uses propaganda.
Plain folks- Numerous news casts and excerpts featuring normal U.S citizens are shown throughout the video.
Repetition- Many United States propaganda news clips or the repeatedly shown clips of warp stories is their use of repetition. In addition they state numerous times that the news misinforms U.S citizens.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Keepin it Green at Champlain video embed/ follow up Q's
Keepin it Green at Champlain College
1. What was the most difficult moment in making this video?
In my opinion the most difficult aspects to making this video were the planning process and the minor technical difficulties Quillan and I experienced while editing. While first planning the project we had trouble coming up with solid ideas that we all agreed upon. Although we did end up brainstorming together an idea that first production meeting it ended up not being our actual plan. While trying to capture some of our first shots our poorly thought out plan had shown. We realized we should choose another idea or strategy. After thinking things through and having a better idea of what to shoot because of our first day of filming we came up with what turned out to be our movie. We overcame this difficulty through taking a step back and making a second attempt. As for the editing troubles, I was editing everything with no problem up until we tried to fade the background music in and out during scenes with dialogue. For some reason we couldn’t figure out, I-movie wouldn’t let us play the original shots audio louder and over the background music. After spending much time and making no progress with it, I came up with a solution. I took out the background music completely during any shots with commentary. Overall this minor movie production process was pretty problem free when keeping in mind the excess of problems movie production normally brings in with the process of it.
2. Other than finishing it, what was the most rewarding moment in making this video?
Realizing I am part of a true sustainable green community was the most rewarding moment of making this video. Although I was aware of how Champlain was green, the production of this video increased my awareness and thus also my appreciation for being sustainable.
3. Discuss 3 specific lessons you learned about film production and/or "group process" in making this video.
One lesson I learned about film production is to overestimate the length as in plan for it to be longer then you expect. You will always encounter problems and/or dilemmas slowing down or temporarily halting the project. For example the 2 problems I faced with brain cramps and technical difficulties taught me. One lesson this taught me on the group process was that in some cases the workload may not be even due to teammates skill sets and past experience and as a result this un-even proportioning of work is sometimes unavoidable. Since I was the only one on my team with experience with I-movie I was forced to take on all the editing. Although I didn’t have a problem with this it was a very time consuming process leaving the other teammates with not many other ways to contribute. I think had there been someone else with at least some experience with I-movie this would have been a much easier task. A second lesson I learned about the group process is that it is important to welcome all ideas and don’t shut down any either. Ideally you should take into consideration all ideas or opinions of all group members. I think that encouraging brainstorming or the sharing of any form of idea results in more effective planning and teamwork. The reason we reached our improved idea was a result of this taking place. Overall I learned a lot about film production and the group process through this project however these three lessons are the main aspects to the learning experience.
4. Discuss 3 specific things you learned about Champlain College
And/or the "Sustain Champlain" project that you did not know before completing this project.
One thing I learned about Champlain college is that Aiken Hall is a lead certified green building. This was an interesting fact for I didn’t know a certification for a sustainable building was out there. But once I did find out I was glad to know that a Champlain building had earned it. One thing I learned about sustain Champlain that I hadn’t been informed of before this project was the E-waste not for Landfills campaign. Not only did it inform me of the recycling process of old electronics but it let me know another way Champlain is going green. Another new thing I learned was another attempt Champlain makes to promote sustainability. That is with the incentive of if you purchase a reusable coffee mug from Jazzman’s cafe the coffee price is discounted to $1.00.
1. What was the most difficult moment in making this video?
In my opinion the most difficult aspects to making this video were the planning process and the minor technical difficulties Quillan and I experienced while editing. While first planning the project we had trouble coming up with solid ideas that we all agreed upon. Although we did end up brainstorming together an idea that first production meeting it ended up not being our actual plan. While trying to capture some of our first shots our poorly thought out plan had shown. We realized we should choose another idea or strategy. After thinking things through and having a better idea of what to shoot because of our first day of filming we came up with what turned out to be our movie. We overcame this difficulty through taking a step back and making a second attempt. As for the editing troubles, I was editing everything with no problem up until we tried to fade the background music in and out during scenes with dialogue. For some reason we couldn’t figure out, I-movie wouldn’t let us play the original shots audio louder and over the background music. After spending much time and making no progress with it, I came up with a solution. I took out the background music completely during any shots with commentary. Overall this minor movie production process was pretty problem free when keeping in mind the excess of problems movie production normally brings in with the process of it.
2. Other than finishing it, what was the most rewarding moment in making this video?
Realizing I am part of a true sustainable green community was the most rewarding moment of making this video. Although I was aware of how Champlain was green, the production of this video increased my awareness and thus also my appreciation for being sustainable.
3. Discuss 3 specific lessons you learned about film production and/or "group process" in making this video.
One lesson I learned about film production is to overestimate the length as in plan for it to be longer then you expect. You will always encounter problems and/or dilemmas slowing down or temporarily halting the project. For example the 2 problems I faced with brain cramps and technical difficulties taught me. One lesson this taught me on the group process was that in some cases the workload may not be even due to teammates skill sets and past experience and as a result this un-even proportioning of work is sometimes unavoidable. Since I was the only one on my team with experience with I-movie I was forced to take on all the editing. Although I didn’t have a problem with this it was a very time consuming process leaving the other teammates with not many other ways to contribute. I think had there been someone else with at least some experience with I-movie this would have been a much easier task. A second lesson I learned about the group process is that it is important to welcome all ideas and don’t shut down any either. Ideally you should take into consideration all ideas or opinions of all group members. I think that encouraging brainstorming or the sharing of any form of idea results in more effective planning and teamwork. The reason we reached our improved idea was a result of this taking place. Overall I learned a lot about film production and the group process through this project however these three lessons are the main aspects to the learning experience.
4. Discuss 3 specific things you learned about Champlain College
And/or the "Sustain Champlain" project that you did not know before completing this project.
One thing I learned about Champlain college is that Aiken Hall is a lead certified green building. This was an interesting fact for I didn’t know a certification for a sustainable building was out there. But once I did find out I was glad to know that a Champlain building had earned it. One thing I learned about sustain Champlain that I hadn’t been informed of before this project was the E-waste not for Landfills campaign. Not only did it inform me of the recycling process of old electronics but it let me know another way Champlain is going green. Another new thing I learned was another attempt Champlain makes to promote sustainability. That is with the incentive of if you purchase a reusable coffee mug from Jazzman’s cafe the coffee price is discounted to $1.00.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Media Meditation #4 the approaching arrival of festival season
As spring arrives and summer isn't far behind, one may think of beaches or summer vacations or one may think of FESTIVAL SEASON!!!!
The late spring and summer seasons are times when numerous music and art festivals take place around the United States. These Festivals vary in sizes and location, and some include up to hundreds of musical artists. I visit Jambase.com to find a listing of the many that are taking place.
Some of these festivals include: Coachella Music Festival in California, Wanee music festival in Florida, summer Camp 2010 Music Festival in Illinois, Bonnaroo music and art festival in Tennessee, All good music and arts festival in West Virginia, , Mountain Jam in New york and Lollapalooza in illonois.
These are just the major popular festivals however there are many smaller ones, regardless of the size music festivals are fun experiences on many different levels!
In the past I have attended Bonnaroo 08,09 in manchester Tennessee and Mountain Jam 09 in Hunter, Ny. This summer I plan on attended these in addition to the Allgood music festival in West Virginia.
My first Music Festival was Bonnaroo of 2008 and ever since then I have been in love with the Music Festival Scene. I enjoy live music and good vibes and thats exactly what you find at festivals. They are amazing experiences, days filled with music and great company is a recipe for fun! If you have yet to attend a music festival I highly suggest it!
APPLYING THE POWER TOOLS:
These many festivals can be classified under many power tools for they are not only full of mediums but are also very stimulating experiences.
Applying the Eight Shifts
It can be an Epistemological and Technological shift for the advanced technologies featured at these festivals display convergence. Examples include apple I-phone applications or automated texted reminders that contain maps, up to the minute schedules and set-lists and more. My brother and I took advantage of this while at Bonnaroo in 2009, the picture below shows a screenshot of the main menu of the Bonnaroo application.
Another perspective could identify a cultural shit within festivals. Within the varying locations and bands comes varying cultures in addition to over the years types of music that are in style change so do the performers.
Applying the seven basic principles:
Production techniques- The many performances require much preparation of their lights and sound equipment. In addition festival performances are now recorded and made into dvds and cds. The filming and editing that is done on these shows is part to the many production techniques found at Festivals.
Ownership- Some festivals are sponsored by different companies or entertainment agencies, many of which are promoted and have strong presence at the festivals making clear of their contributions. A major example of this is Bonnaroo and their list of partners. They have many different partners however the one i remember having the most impact was Fuse, an entertainment industry sponsored the event. They had an air conditioned barn on site with computers,games, a cell phone charging station and a small stage for minor performances.
Individual Meaning- Every person has a different taste and appreciation for music. Therefore depending on the artist playing they interpret the meaning derived from the performance from their perspective. Also one may interpret the festival scene and camping scene in many different ways. For example I love both aspects, the fun and community feeling is great. It is like the campsites are gatherings of families all having fun together. But at the perspective some may dislike festivals and the camping. An example of this is my father, although he has gone to festivals and he enjoys them, he doesn't appreciate the camping experience as much as he used to. He prefers a hotel or vip experience that can provide a more comforting living experience. Overall everyone can take away their own meaning from several aspects to music festivals.
Deciphering the Persuasive Techniques and Analytical tools found at festivals:
Symbols/repetition- Many if not all festivals have a symbol or logo, although in most cases it is the name and some picture the majority of them include some form of it. They not only represent the festival but are found all around the festival including the tickets or in many cases the wrist bands that signify your ticket.
Group Dynamics- Many festival goers will agree that festivals are almost temporary families or close knit communities. While camping or enjoying the festivals many people share and help each other out. In addition you find in most cases that you will recognize people from years pasts or other festivals or shows. This is a common occurrence and is appreciated for the common love and appreciation for festivals or shows brings that sense of friendship and connection to another level.
Below is a birds eye view picture of Bonnaroo, as you can see it is very large yet organized. I think that a gathering of this many people who all share the love for music is an awesome one of a kind experience, that only music festivals can provide. I plan on attending them for as long as I can.
All in all music festivals are awesome and everyone should get to experience one!
Media Meditation #3
MEDIA MEDITATION: ESPN insider/ ESPN magazine.
I recently bought a subscription to the ESPN magazine and the ESPN insider. Recently ESPN's Magazine and Insider feature came together digitally, as a result of this merge, you can find magazine content online through ESPN Insider. Additionally Insider gives you various benefits online any sports follower would adore to have. This is an example of media convergence and how web 2.0 is encouraging this merging of resources.
ESPN's insider gives you "the most comprehensive sports coverage" available online, giving you the inside scoop on players and teams before it hits the news. This includes draft predictions, scouts rumors of trades, and access to in-depth analysis's from some of the best sport writers in the game. The online magazine, and available ESPN radio help keep you up to date on all the sports news you can find. Follow this link for a complete outline of the Insiders benefits.
one of my favorite aspects to the insider is how easy it is to keep track of every team no matter how far away they are. This is convenient for keeping track of your home teams while away. I found a humorous commercial conveying this message, it is found below.
Other factors of this insider I find very beneficial is the extended access and assistance you are given. Not only can you stream full episodes of shows found on ESPN but you get opportunities to join in special events and beta testing on ESPN's newest offerings. In addition if you are interested in fantasy football you can access help from experts. There advice is available to personally help you with all aspects to Fantasy football, from assessing your needs to scoping potential trades and drafts it is sure to get your team going. Overall the Insider is a very practical feature that clearly shows strong development towards media convergence.
Applying the Eight Shifts
This can be classified under a Epistemological Shift for it displays convergence and print to online; how living in the 21st century has impacted most magazines to become available online. Also a Technological Shift for how being in such a web orientated age as lead to the development of many online available resources or in this case the ESPN insider.
This stimulates the neocortex brain for the articles and stories require comprehension and reasoning skills. In addition the Limbic brain is stimulated through the video and audio clips featured on the website.
Applying the Seven Basic Principles:
Individual meaning- The Insider provides many different insights and stories relating to professional, semi-professional, college and some high school sports. The reader can interpret these in many ways depending on their preferred sports and teams will have more significance then others.
Persuasive techniques and Analytical tools:
Symbols- The ESPN logo is found in many different places along with the varying sports team and leagues logos.
Hyperbole and Simple Solutions-While looking at the section of the insider website that describes its benefits its summaries of the benefits can be classified as using Hyperbole and simple solutions. "all the tools you need to stay one step ahead of the game" they claim that the insider package contains all the essential resources for anyone to stay up to date on all the current sports news. While outlining the various aspects they make similar claims that apply to hyperbole and simple solutions. To describe the content: "Most comprehsnize sports coverage", to describe the insider tools: "be the smartest fan you can be", to describe the benefits of the access the insider grants : "only insiders get it" and to describe the ESPN magazine : "Delieverd every two weeks to your door or your inbox".
Repetition- The numerous ESPN logos and the many times ESPN and ESPN insider are mentioned display their use of the persuasion technique of repetition.
ESPN magazine and the ESPN insider use many different persuasive techniques and analytical tools to promote and stimulate their audience.
Overall if you are in any sense a sports fan and you wish to learn more and stay up to date on current sports news then the ESPN insider is essential to you and you should definitely CHECK IT OUT!!
I recently bought a subscription to the ESPN magazine and the ESPN insider. Recently ESPN's Magazine and Insider feature came together digitally, as a result of this merge, you can find magazine content online through ESPN Insider. Additionally Insider gives you various benefits online any sports follower would adore to have. This is an example of media convergence and how web 2.0 is encouraging this merging of resources.
ESPN's insider gives you "the most comprehensive sports coverage" available online, giving you the inside scoop on players and teams before it hits the news. This includes draft predictions, scouts rumors of trades, and access to in-depth analysis's from some of the best sport writers in the game. The online magazine, and available ESPN radio help keep you up to date on all the sports news you can find. Follow this link for a complete outline of the Insiders benefits.
one of my favorite aspects to the insider is how easy it is to keep track of every team no matter how far away they are. This is convenient for keeping track of your home teams while away. I found a humorous commercial conveying this message, it is found below.
Other factors of this insider I find very beneficial is the extended access and assistance you are given. Not only can you stream full episodes of shows found on ESPN but you get opportunities to join in special events and beta testing on ESPN's newest offerings. In addition if you are interested in fantasy football you can access help from experts. There advice is available to personally help you with all aspects to Fantasy football, from assessing your needs to scoping potential trades and drafts it is sure to get your team going. Overall the Insider is a very practical feature that clearly shows strong development towards media convergence.
Applying the Eight Shifts
This can be classified under a Epistemological Shift for it displays convergence and print to online; how living in the 21st century has impacted most magazines to become available online. Also a Technological Shift for how being in such a web orientated age as lead to the development of many online available resources or in this case the ESPN insider.
This stimulates the neocortex brain for the articles and stories require comprehension and reasoning skills. In addition the Limbic brain is stimulated through the video and audio clips featured on the website.
Applying the Seven Basic Principles:
Individual meaning- The Insider provides many different insights and stories relating to professional, semi-professional, college and some high school sports. The reader can interpret these in many ways depending on their preferred sports and teams will have more significance then others.
Persuasive techniques and Analytical tools:
Symbols- The ESPN logo is found in many different places along with the varying sports team and leagues logos.
Hyperbole and Simple Solutions-While looking at the section of the insider website that describes its benefits its summaries of the benefits can be classified as using Hyperbole and simple solutions. "all the tools you need to stay one step ahead of the game" they claim that the insider package contains all the essential resources for anyone to stay up to date on all the current sports news. While outlining the various aspects they make similar claims that apply to hyperbole and simple solutions. To describe the content: "Most comprehsnize sports coverage", to describe the insider tools: "be the smartest fan you can be", to describe the benefits of the access the insider grants : "only insiders get it" and to describe the ESPN magazine : "Delieverd every two weeks to your door or your inbox".
Repetition- The numerous ESPN logos and the many times ESPN and ESPN insider are mentioned display their use of the persuasion technique of repetition.
ESPN magazine and the ESPN insider use many different persuasive techniques and analytical tools to promote and stimulate their audience.
Overall if you are in any sense a sports fan and you wish to learn more and stay up to date on current sports news then the ESPN insider is essential to you and you should definitely CHECK IT OUT!!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Jon Jameson is the man
For a homework assignment we read a chapter on advertising and posted a blog entry on it. It reminded me of a funny Jon Jameson commercial but I couldn't embed it within my post so instead it is here.
Enjoy
oo and to continue this random entry
PHISH Announced their summer tour!
yessss soooo many dates but not enough time or money to capture the ideal amount of shows, regardless the fact phish is touring again is amazing news!
Enjoy
oo and to continue this random entry
PHISH Announced their summer tour!
yessss soooo many dates but not enough time or money to capture the ideal amount of shows, regardless the fact phish is touring again is amazing news!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Spring 2010 Midterm Exam Questions
1.after studying media for eight weeks in this class, what have you learned?
I have learned that media's influence on society and the population is endless and vice versa. The two strive off of each other and without one the other would be seriously lacking or not functioning. In addition we learned of various mediums and technologies evolution leading to media convergence and to the extent it has affected everyday lives. It reflects our societies progression and how technology is improving the accessibility of Data.
2. What is the most important thing you have learned about yourself as a 1. critical reader; 2. a writer, and 3. a critical thinker in this class so far?
The most important thing I've learned as a critical reader is to read all available information within chapters in textbooks or handouts in order to obtain the true meaning of the text. I realized it all pertains to the main message and helps you further understand the chapter or passage's concept. As a writer, I learned that my opinion does show in my writing and it tends to make it biased at points. After realizing this I am now better at staying neutral within my writing. As a critical thinker i have established a more medium judging sense to apply to available media sources. Learning of the past in media displayed the possibilities available today and by using our power tools I can recognize the tactics being used or not.
3. What's one thing you would do differently this first half of the semester if you were to take this class again?
If i were to take the first half of this class again I would learn the power tools earlier and practice by applying them to mediums on a daily basis. I feel this would help my ability to decipher them easier and have them become more natural to my judging eye. In addition I would plan and start my mass meditations earlier.
4.Whats one thing you would like me to do differently this first half of the semester if you were to take this class again?
One thing I would like you to do differently is to split up the power tools when first showing them to us. For example: first teach the shifts then have us apply them to media, then next class or once were comfortable with the shifts add in the 7 principles and add in the 29 techniques once were good with the shifts and principles. I feel as if this gradual release of information and experience with the power tools will result in students knowing each tool set more specifically.
5. Please comment on the usefulness of the course blog, your personal blog, our films and our books as learning tools.
The course and personal blog, and many learning tools assist in helping for a better learning experience by easing the accessibility of class data and resources. This not only helps us access information more effectively but it helps first hand with experiencing the advancement of technology and mediums. I would not take away or change any resources or tools we use for this classes assignments. Overall this class is about Media and the internets convergence, experiencing the many resources available in this world at this time to help improve our abilities only enhances this learning experience.
I have learned that media's influence on society and the population is endless and vice versa. The two strive off of each other and without one the other would be seriously lacking or not functioning. In addition we learned of various mediums and technologies evolution leading to media convergence and to the extent it has affected everyday lives. It reflects our societies progression and how technology is improving the accessibility of Data.
2. What is the most important thing you have learned about yourself as a 1. critical reader; 2. a writer, and 3. a critical thinker in this class so far?
The most important thing I've learned as a critical reader is to read all available information within chapters in textbooks or handouts in order to obtain the true meaning of the text. I realized it all pertains to the main message and helps you further understand the chapter or passage's concept. As a writer, I learned that my opinion does show in my writing and it tends to make it biased at points. After realizing this I am now better at staying neutral within my writing. As a critical thinker i have established a more medium judging sense to apply to available media sources. Learning of the past in media displayed the possibilities available today and by using our power tools I can recognize the tactics being used or not.
3. What's one thing you would do differently this first half of the semester if you were to take this class again?
If i were to take the first half of this class again I would learn the power tools earlier and practice by applying them to mediums on a daily basis. I feel this would help my ability to decipher them easier and have them become more natural to my judging eye. In addition I would plan and start my mass meditations earlier.
4.Whats one thing you would like me to do differently this first half of the semester if you were to take this class again?
One thing I would like you to do differently is to split up the power tools when first showing them to us. For example: first teach the shifts then have us apply them to media, then next class or once were comfortable with the shifts add in the 7 principles and add in the 29 techniques once were good with the shifts and principles. I feel as if this gradual release of information and experience with the power tools will result in students knowing each tool set more specifically.
5. Please comment on the usefulness of the course blog, your personal blog, our films and our books as learning tools.
The course and personal blog, and many learning tools assist in helping for a better learning experience by easing the accessibility of class data and resources. This not only helps us access information more effectively but it helps first hand with experiencing the advancement of technology and mediums. I would not take away or change any resources or tools we use for this classes assignments. Overall this class is about Media and the internets convergence, experiencing the many resources available in this world at this time to help improve our abilities only enhances this learning experience.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Media @ Magic Hat Mardi Gras/ Media Meditation #2
This Saturday I attended A Mardi Gras themed celebration sponsored by The Magic Hat Brewery, It took place on Church Street in Burlington VT, it involved many events and a parade. Shown below is the schedule of the days festivities, footage I uploaded to youtube and some pictures I took from the parade.
Mardi Gras Church Street Celebration schedule:
(obtained from http://www.magichat.net/mardigras2010)
12pm-1pm: Swing Band Caravan of Thieves plays on the top block of Church St
12pm: Registration for the King & Queen of Mardi Gras Costume Contest begins outside City Hall on the lower block of Church St. Winners get $500 EACH and will help lead off the Grand Parade with Alan Newman and Mayor Bob Kiss.
12pm-5pm: Magic Hat Mardi gras Headquarters open at the former Maplehurst Florist space on Church St for all your bead, mask and Mardi Gras needs.
12pm-2:30pm: Concert poster artist Jim Pollock signs handmade Mardi Gras prints to benefit WRCC at the former Maplehurst Florist space on Church St. For more info on the availability of Pollock's prints, see our Pollock Print blog post.
12:30-1:30pm: Sambatucada warms up the crowd with their unique Afro-Brazillian beats in front of City Hall
1:30pm: The Mardi Gras Costume Contest concludes as Alan Newman crowns the King & Queen and hands over $500 to EACH of the winners in front of City Hall
2pm-2:30pm: Gypsy-Swing Band Caravan of Thieves plays on the top block of Church St.
2pm-2:30pm: Sambatucada warms up the crowd with their unique Afro-Brazillian beats in front of City Hall
3pm: The Grand Parade begins to wind its way through downtown Burlington!
After the Parade:: The Mardi Gras Parade Post-Party begins as soon as the last float has been filed away. Hit the purveyors of potables and foodstuffs around the Marketplace and fill up on New Orleans cuisine, Magic Hat beer and friendly folly with folks from all over the world."
This was a media experience from many different angles, using the power tools listed below helped me decipher exactly how it relates to Mass Media.
eight shifts
I identify this celebration as fitting into a cultural or Economic shift for it is influenced by the celebration of Mardi Gras but also has some other unique aspects for its sponsorships and Location. Not only did the Vt based brewery, Magic Hat, sponsor it but several local and national businesses either had a float in the parade or had some other form of advertising or sponsorship. The combination of cultures and commercialism displayed throughout the day and celebration helped me decide on this.
Applying 7 out of these 10 Basic Principles of Media Education:
Value Message Principle
The celebration, parade and many represented businesses all brought along several value messages both intended and unintended for us to pick up on. I found that the celebration brought on a tradition or cultural message however each individual business brought on their own specific messages as well. For example Jet Blue had multiple people dressed in plane customs throwing out blue colored potato chips, this appealed to the consumers and was a clever way of getting the "Blue" or Jet Blue name and meaning to the public.
Ownership
The fact Magic Hat Brewery was the main sponsor of the event made it clear of their influence, however other participating businesses used several techniques to influence or advertise. An Example was the floats in the parade giving away product samples, Mardi Gras beads, candy, playing music and displaying large signs or banners. This clearly got attention to these businesses and their role in the celebration.
Emotional Transfer Principle
In my opinion the friendly and social environment Magic Hat Brewery presented was to transfer this event or emotion to their symbol or products. Not only was their existing persona of a talented fun brewery present but a new friendly cultural aspect could be interpreted as well. I found that this could be interpeted many differnt ways depending on your age and background but regardless of how it was interpreted they were aiming for an enjoyable family oriented experience.
Persuasive Techniques to Analytical Tools
Symbols: Magic Hat Brewery along with the several other businesses involved in the celebration all presented symbols relating to their products or services. In addition the Mardi Gras culture was represented through the many traditions found both in this celebration and in the native Mardi Gras in New Orleans .
Bribery/Flattery
The majority of represented businesses had give-aways some examples were candy, beads, key chains or small toys. Although they may have not been bribing us consumers technically, they were aiming for some exposure or flattery. A major example was Boloco restaurant, this not only drove people in to get a free burrito and maybe something else but also caused much commotion outside of the storefront.
Humor
The celebration as a whole was to be a fun festive experience, I felt a light or funny attitude going along with it. I found many of the floats in the parade were also using humor as a backbone to their ideas and representations.
Plain Folks/Group Dynamics
This celebration and parade consisted of many volunteers or locals. This level of participation showed how much of a community effort it was and provided for a common, local feel. In addition they made every volunteer or way of helping be pointed out and appreciated.
Warm Fuzzies
The upbeat attitude the celebration, parade and crowd gave off along with the many clever floats persuaded through this method of "warming your heart".
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