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AAF-Houston AdSmart July - Creative Thought Leader Series

Rita Trelewicz — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

July 2010, Issue 16

In This Issue...

Introduction
Creative Thought Leader Series: Patrick Coyne
Dwight Douthit Named to AAF National Board of Directors
AAF-Houston Comes to the Aid of the Innocent
Member News

Introduction

AAF-Houston was named Club of the Year in Division II of the American Advertising Federation. In addition, we won first place for club operations, public service and diversity and multicultural initiatives. We took second place for communications and third place for advertising education. Way to go!

Frank Cooper, CMO, Sparkling Beverages, Pepsi-Cola North America Beverages, was elected to serve another term as Chairman and Steve Pacheco, Managing Director, Advertising & Marketing Communications of FedEx, as Vice Chairman. Our Houston chapter recently held election and Tami Weitkunat is our new Chairman and Camille Bryan will serve as Vice Chairman.

The 2010 Houston Media Classic is just a few months away. Plan to join them as they celebrate their 20th anniversary at the Blackhorse Golf Club on October 28.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Creative Thought Leader Series: Patrick Coyne

In August, AAF-Houston will co-sponsor a joint luncheon with the Media Alliance of Houston (formerly AWRT Houston) where Patrick Coyne will discuss the history and philosophy of Communication Arts magazine. He will talk about how CA's competitions work and how creative's are chosen for profiles in the magazine. He will also present a selection of award-winning design and advertising projects produced on limited budgets and discuss the future of creativity in the post-information age.

Patrick Coyne is editor and designer of Communication Arts. In addition to determining the layout and content of the magazine, Mr. Coyne writes feature stories and the editor's column. He has also guest lectured at numerous creative clubs and universities. The recipient of numerous awards for his design and art direction (including a silver medal from the Society of Illustrators), Coyne received the 2004 Design Leadership Award from the American Institute of Graphic Arts. Prior to joining CA in 1986, Coyne studied at the California College of the Arts, worked for Michael Mabry Design and SBG Partners and established the multi-discipline, San Francisco-based design firm of Patrick Coyne Stephanie Steyer Design Office.

Communication Arts is the leading professional journal for designers, art directors, design firms, agencies and corporate communications departments. Current circulation is 60,000 paid. Through editorials, feature articles and annual competitions it sponsors, CA provides new ideas and information, while promoting the highest professional standards for the field.

Register now for this event.

Dwight Douthit Named to AAF National Board of Directors

Local ad man, Dwight Douthit has been appointed to the American Advertising Federation (AAF) national board of directors. President and owner of Douthit Design Group, Douthit has been active on the local level for most of his professional career. He serves on the board of directors for AAF-Houston and currently is the group’s Public Service Director.

The announcement came last week at the group’s annual conference in Orlando. During his two-year term, Douthit will represent the organization’s Division II clubs, or those with 250 to 499 members. This will be Douthit’s second time to serve on the AAF national board. He was appointed in the late 80’s, while serving as National Chairman of the AD2 Division, the organization’s thirty-one and under sub-set. He also served as AAF’s National Public Service Chairman from 1990 to 1992 and most recently on the national ADDY committee. More on this story.

AAF-Houston Comes to the Aid of the Innocent

When the sign on your kennel door says “pointer pit-bull mix,” chances are life’s already sold you short. For three-year-old Mavis the future didn't hold much hope, either. Labeled aggressive by the City of Houston’s Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care, she was slated to be euthanized - another casualty of animal overpopulation.

Mavis, though, caught the eye of two Friends of BARC volunteers who adopted the 45-pounder, now labeled a “goof ball,” and today she is living a safe and comfortable life. She’s also about to be famous, one of several animals “stars” featured in an advertising awareness campaign promoting Friends of BARC, a non-profit group that supports the work of BARC.

The campaign was developed by volunteers with the AAF - Houston for the Friends of BARC, which promotes animal adoption and educates the public about the importance of spaying and neutering. Creative Director, Dwight Douthit, chaired the AAF-Houston committee that developed the campaign.

Douthit hopes the campaign encourages more Houstonians to support Friends of BARC by volunteering, donating money and adopting from BARC. If you are interested in supporting the initiative contact Dwight Douthit.

Member News

To help break the ice if you see any of these members at an upcoming event, we profiled a few. If you have any news you want to share with the group or want to include a short profile in future newsletters, please contact Rita Trelewicz. Let the Houston Ad Crowd know what is going on with you!

Kerry Gause went to University of Texas at Austin before getting into Radio Advertising as an Account Executive. A unique fact about Kerry is that she has an identical twin sister. In her free time she enjoys reading, cycling, and traveling. She enjoys the diversity of Houston and one of her favorite things about the city is the restaurants.

Jonah Sanders is a native Houstonian. He works at a startup called OurBlok which specializes in hyper-local advertising for small to medium businesses. He got is this line so he could work at the intersection of art and commerce. One of his favorite books is On the Road by Jack Kerouac. It was the start of counter-culture and a new American romanticism. In his rare free time, he turns off all technology and avoids media. It provides his mind some quiet space to balance the noise.

25-Jul-10 7:00 PM

Dwight Douthit Named to AAF National Board of Directors

Jay Hagins — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 20:00:00 GMT

^{Local ad man, Dwight Douthit has been appointed to the American Advertising
Federation (AAF) national board of directors. President and owner of Douthit
Design Group, Douthit has been active on the local level for most of his
professional career. He serves on the board of directors for AAF-Houston and
currently is the group’s Public Service Director.}

^{The announcement came last week at the group’s annual conference in
Orlando. During his two-year term, Douthit will represent the organization’s
Division II clubs, or those with 250 to 499 members. This will be Douthit’s
second time to serve on the AAF national board. He was appointed in the late
80’s, while serving as National Chairman of the AD2 Division, the
organization’s thirty-one and under sub-set. He also served as AAF’s National
Public Service Chairman from 1990 to 1992 and most recently on the national
ADDY committee.}

^{“We are very fortunate to
be represented by someone who cares so much for our industry,” says AAF–Houston
President, Jay Hagins. “Over the years, Dwight has demonstrated a genuine
concern for the young people in our business and has an equal affinity for
public service. He understands this organization on many levels and will serve
us well.”}

^{The American Advertising Federation is the oldest advertising trade
association, representing 50,000 professionals in the advertising industry. AAF
has a national network of 15 multi-state districts and more than 200 ad clubs
along with a college chapter program of 225 affiliated chapters throughout the
US and abroad.}

22-Jun-10 3:00 PM

AAF-Houston AdSmart June - Creative Thought Leader Series

Rita Trelewicz — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 12:00:00 GMT

June 2010, Issue 15

In This Issue...

Introduction
Creative Thought Leader Series: Guy Bommarito
Ten Outstanding College Students Receive Scholarships
Focus Emotions for Added Charisma
Member News

Introduction

Although summer is still two weeks away, it feels like summer arrived weeks ago. That's Houston for you! A good way to chill out is by participating in "Cocktails for a Cause," on Friday, June 11. The Dream Fund organization helps those in our advertising and media communities when unexpected life-changing events occur.

The AAF National Conference 2010 kicks off next week in Orlando, Florida. During the Addy awards dinner on June 12, you can vote for your favorite pieces via text messaging. The entrant with the most votes wins the ADDY® Peoples Choice Award. If you can't make it to Orlando, then mark your calendar for the AAF District 10 summer Leadership Conference in Memphis, September 16-18.

Last month James Edmund Datri, president and CEO of AAF presented AAF Tenth District’s honor of leadership and innovation in advertising award to Southwest Airlines and its portfolio of agencies.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Creative Thought Leader Series: Guy Bommarito

On June 16th, Guy Bommarito will share his thoughts at the monthly AAF-Houston luncheon. He is a free-lance writer/creative director living in the San Francisco Bay Area. Previously he was a group creative director at Foote, Cone, Belding in Chicago before moving to the Bay area to run the creative department at Hoffman|Lewis.

He is well-known for his undertakings at GSD&M. As executive creative director, he led the agency to its first honors in the Andys, Cannes, Communication Arts, D&AD, the New York Art Directors Club, the One Show, and the Radio Mercury Awards. Adweek magazine named Guy to its Creative All-Star team twice.

He's taught advertising creativity and campaign courses at the University of Texas at Austin and the Chicago Portfolio School. One of a select group of professionals invited to judge CA magazine’s prestigious advertising annual twice.

Register now for this event.

Ten Outstanding College Students Receive Scholarships

The American Advertising Federation – Houston (AAF Houston) and the Advertising Education Foundation of Houston (AEFH) will presented scholarships to ten college students last month.

“We are extremely pleased to be awarding ten scholarships, totaling a value of $18,500, especially in an economy which proves difficult for student financial support,” says Rich Klein, chairman of the AEFH Scholarship Committee. “Supporting students who are planning to enter the communications industry is essential so that we can ensure the best resources are available for our future workforce in Houston.”

The AEFH supports education through granting scholarships to undergraduate and post-graduate students. Scholarships will be offered in amounts ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 per award. Scholarships will be awarded to the most qualified students within the guidelines of financial need, GPA, written communications skills, and general community and volunteer activities. Students must also have demonstrated commitment to the communications industry with internship or work experience, and participation in communications-focused professional or campus organizations.

Focus Emotions for Added Charisma

Many people believe that you are either charismatic or not. However, according to communications expert and coach Dr. Nick Morgan, charisma is a learned ability. He believes that charisma is the focused expression of emotion. So if you can learn to focus your emotions, you can learn to be charismatic.

“The human brain is wired to respond to emotion,” explains Morgan. “Mirror neurons in our brains mimic the emotions of others in our own minds. So When we find a speaker charismatic, it's because the speaker has a powerful emotion connected with the material. That's what we respond to.”

So at your next meeting stay focused. Don't let your mind wander on other work issues, personal problems, your to do list, or what's for dinner. Read more on the Career Connection Blog at CIO.com.

Member News

BrandExtract, LLC has merged with ParkerHayden, Inc. The combined company will operate under the BrandExtract name and retain the experienced leadership and staffs of both firms. The merger combines BrandExtract’s integrated B-to-B brand-building capabilities with ParkerHayden’s creative and expertise in consumer marketing across print, broadcast and digital media.

8-Jun-10 7:00 AM

AAF – Houston and Advertising Education Foundation of Houston Award Scholarships to Ten Outstanding College Students at May 19 Luncheon

Jay Hagins — Thu, 20 May 2010 15:00:00 GMT

The American Advertising Federation – Houston (AAF Houston) and the Advertising Education Foundation of Houston (AEFH) presented scholarships to ten deserving college students at the AAF Houston monthly luncheon on May 19 at the Junior League of Houston. Honoring students who are pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in advertising, communications, journalism, radio and TV, commercial art, marketing, public relations or related fields, AAF Houston presented ten different scholarships to students who may be returning to the Houston area following graduation.

The AEFH supports education through granting scholarships to undergraduate and post-graduate students. Scholarships were awarded in amounts ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 per award. Scholarships went to the most qualified students within the guidelines of financial need, GPA, written communications skills, and general community and volunteer activities. Students must also have demonstrated commitment to the communications industry with internship or work experience, and participation in communications-focused professional or campus organizations.

Categories and recipients for this year’s scholarships include: AEFH Scholarship in Honor of Sabra Grill – Meghan Burton, Sam Houston State University; Alice B. Rogers Education Foundation of Houston Scholarship – Kristina Whitcomb, Texas A&M University; Fogarty Klein Monroe Scholarship – Mallorie Rodak, Southern Methodist University; Bill & Sharon Young Media Education Scholarship (two awards) – Annie Lee Taylor, University of Texas at Austin and Tiffany Wilder, University of Texas at Austin; Saurage Research Academic Distinction Scholarship – Ashley Schneider, Texas A&M University; Lopez Negrete Hispanic Marketing Education Scholarship – Heather Diaz, University of Houston; Locke Bryan Director’s Scholarship – Sabbath Obot, University of Houston; Brett Elliott Education Fund - Victoria Tompkins, University of Texas at Austin; and the Houston Media Classic Education Fund – Heather Henry, Texas A&M University.

About the American Advertising Federation – Houston

The American Advertising Federation – Houston is an association of advertising professionals encompassing all disciplines in the advertising, marketing and communications industries.Founded in 1911, the American Advertising Federation - Houston is one of the oldest service organizations in Houston.Today, with a membership of well over five hundred advertising professionals, the group takes an active role in the community both locally and through its affiliation with the American Advertising Federation (AAF), a 50,000 member national association of advertising professionals.

20-May-10 10:00 AM

AAF-Houston AdSmart May - Consumer Emotions and Body Language

Wed, 12 May 2010 01:00:00 GMT

May 2010, Issue 14

In This Issue...

Introduction
Creative Thought Leader Series: Emotions and Body Language
How to save a life? Help BARC
What's Your Emotional Intelligence Ranking?
Member News

Introduction

People produce about 50 different types of smiles. However, there's one difference that really matters. Is it real or is it fake? While people sometimes fake smiles to be polite, we are good at detecting real smiles when it matters. Learn more about emotions and how it affects body language and consumer behavior at this months luncheon.

AAF Houston has a few things to brag about. At the District 10 conference, we won 1st place for the public service award in the club achievement competition, Club of the Year, Division II, AAF, the UH student team won the 10th District NSAC competition and, the new SW Advertising Hall of Fame honorees are Audrey Gilbreath, Alex Lopez Negrete and Willard Walbridge. Congratulations everyone!

Don't miss the excitement at the upcoming AAF National Conference 2010 in Orlando June 10-12. To register for this year's conference or learn more about any of the signature National Conference events go to www.aaf.org/conference.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Creative Thought Leader Series: Consumer Emotions and Body Language

Dan Hill is a recognized authority on the role of emotions and body language in consumer and employee behavior. During our monthly luncheon on May 19, he will share his insights gained while running his scientific consultancy, Sensory Logic, Inc. One of the company’s unique research tools is facial coding. It is used by the CIA and FBI, and Malcolm Gladwell higlights it in his best-seller Blink.

A frequent speaker at global business conferences and seminars, Dan’s blue-chip clients have included Target, Toyota, General Motors, American Express, Capital One, Nokia, GlaxoSmithKline, among other major brands.

Dan appeared on The Today Show, FOX NEWS, CNN, and MSNBC regarding his facial coding analysis of the 2008 Presidential Election and appeared on ESPN2 regarding Alex Rodriquez’s steroid controversy. He is the author of three books: Body of Truth: Leveraging What Consumer’s Can’t or Won’t Say, Face Time: How the 2008 Presidential Race Reveals the Importance of being ON-EMOTION in Politics, Business and in Life and Emotionomics: Leveraging Emotions for Business Success.

Register now for this event.

How to save a life? Help BARC

The Mayor's Office issued a press release a couple of weeks ago emphasizing the dire issue facing the inhabitants at BARC. Recently BARC experienced an animal intake of 184 increasing the poplution to almost 900 animals. The BARC facility was designed to only shelter 600 animals.

This population level is unsustainable and existing foster and rescue networks are also at capacity. Sadly, some animals will not survive. While it may be too late for Shep, Rusty, Courage, or Camper, you can provide hope for others.

If you have been considering adding a dog or cat to your family, now is a great time visit BARC to find your future best friend. Please explore fostering an animal if you aren’t quite sure that you are able to make a long-term commitment. BARC also relies on the selfless service of volunteers, which can often makes all the difference in an animal finding a loving home.

What's Your Emotional Intelligence Ranking?

Research shows that the overwhelming difference between top performers and average performers is higher levels of Emotional Intelligence. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is a skill that enables you to perceive and assess the emotions, desires, and tendencies of yourself as well as of those around you. It guides you in making the best decisions that moves everyone in the direction of a common goal.

We can all learn what makes people tick. People are different and we all have strengths and weaknesses. By focusing on strengths and working around weaknesses you produce a stronger team. Different is difficult only because people haven't learned to work effectively with the differences. Effectiveness has to with doing the right thing, efficiency has to do with getting things done fast. When working with people, effectiveness is rarely efficient. The best results usually come when we take the necessary time in our relationships to do things right.

The best place to start increasing your EQ is to become more self-aware. Start by examining the pros and cons about the way you solve problems. Then explore other ways you can solve problems. Learn more about emotional intelligence by reading Dan Bobinksi’s article posted on Management Issues.

Member News

Ann Iverson was named the District Member of the Year at the AAF 10th district convention in Amarillo. This award recognizes a member who has made outstanding contributions to the growth and improvement of the district above their normal duties. Iverson is chair of the district's Innovation and Leadership in Advertising Award celebration to be held at GSD&M's Idea City in Austin on May 12th honoring Southwest Airlines.

Rudy Lopez-Negrete now manages music and content initiatives for Lopez Negrete Communication from the agency’s California office. He began his music career with the founding of the RPM music label while in school. After obtaining his degree, he moved to New York to work for Elektra/Atlantic records. He then joined Creative Artists Agency in LA where he had the privilege of working with Shakira, Eva Longoria Parker, George Lopez and Salma Hayek.

Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc. won the Gold in the multicultural category at the American Research Federation 2010 David Ogilvy Awards ceremony for its Hispanic Heritage Month campaign launched for the agency’s largest client, Walmart Stores. This is the second year that the Advertising Research Foundation has offered the multicultural category award. Lopez Negrete won the Gold last year for Bank of America.

11-May-10 8:00 PM

Advertising Hall of Achievement

Jay Hagins — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 20:00:00 GMT

The Advertising Hall of Achievement is the industry's premier award for superachievers. Honor an outstanding client or colleague by nominating them for this prestigious award. Nominees must meet the following criteria:

Age 40 or younger at the time of the nomination and employed in the
American advertising industry–advertisers, agency or media;
Outstanding career achievements, with measurable results in the field of advertising
including but not limited to marketing, sales or media;
Qualities that motivate others to excel, by mentoring, inspiring, training or volunteering.

Since 1993, 117 advertising superstars have been inducted into the Advertising Hall of Achievement including: Alex Bogusky, Andrea Jung, Tim Armstrong, Steve Stoute, John B. Osborn, Jacki Kelley and Laura Desmond. For a full list of members, click here.

Nominations: Click here to download the printable nomination form. Completed forms should be submitted electronically to dswartz@aaf.org.

Nomination Deadline: June 17, 2010

Award Presentation: Inductees will be honored at a luncheon November 16, 2010, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.

For more information, contact Dee Dee Swartz at 1-800-999-2231 ordswartz@aaf.org.

27-Apr-10 3:00 PM

Senate May Consider FTC Issue Soon

Jay Hagins — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., has scheduled a vote for Monday, April 26 to begin consideration of financial reform legislation. The House passed version of the bill grants sweeping new rulemaking authority to the Federal Trade Commission. AAF recently warned members of the dangers of these new powers. That alert can be read here.

As of this writing, the Senate bill does not include the FTC language. However, Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Rockefeller recently said, "As we consider Wall Street reform and the creation of a new consumer protection entity, we must recognize the important role of a vibrant FTC. I am working closely with Sen. Dodd and my colleagues to give the new consumer financial protection bureau and the FTC the tools they need to stop bad actors and protect Americans from fraudulent financial products and services."

A coalition of consumer groups has written to Senators urging them to include the House language in the bill. AAF and many other allied associations have written to Senate leadership urging them not to use financial reform to grant the FTC broad powers that extend far beyond financial issues. That letter can be found here. AAF and many of those same groups took out an ad in the Capitol Hill newspaper Roll Call to spread the same message.

If you are interested in receiving an e-mailed copy, please e-mailgovernment@aaf.org.

If you are interested in receiving AAF SmartBrief, an opt-in news service, please visitwww.smartbrief.com/aaf. AAF SmartBrief condenses advertising industry news from dozens of media sources into a succinct, easy to read e-mail.

23-Apr-10 6:00 PM

AAF-Houston AdSmart April - Networking Your Way to New Business

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

April 2010, Issue 13

In This Issue...

Introduction
Networking Your Way to New Business
AAF-Houston’s Scholarship Foundation
Tax Break! Houston's Creative Bailout
Member News

Introduction

This month Hank Blank will motivate and and remind us of how much better we can all be at attracting potential clients. He specializes in finding advertising, public relations and interactive resources for clients based on his knowledge and network. Everyone needs a strong network. What are you doing to grow your network?

Just a reminder, there is only one week left for Early Bird Registration. The AAF National Conference 2010 is just two months away. Save up to 20 percent on your registration and take advantage of early bird rates by April 15th.

Congress is on the verge of giving the Federal Trade Commission sweeping powers making it easier to enact industry-wide rules limiting advertising. This would give the agency increased power over advertising. Contact your Senators and tell them that you oppose this new authority to the FTC.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Networking Your Way to New Business

At the April luncheon we will hear from Hank Blank of Hank Blank Inc. His company provides marketing solutions and business building ideas for small to medium sized companies by tapping into the power of one of the largest networks in Orange County, his own. He believes 75% of all business comes from building a strong referral network.

Hank Blank will help you get more business in 2010 by sharing tips to improve your networking skills. Although 70-75% of all business and job opportunities come from networking and referrals most people don’t know how to effectively network. Most peoploe think they are networking when they attend events with people they know and talk to old friends. That's not networking, that's socializing. Learn about where to network and how to work an event. He will outline how to come back from networking events with relationships versus just business cards and how to develop a network of hundreds of contacts in a year.

Hank Blank has over 25 years of advertising and marketing experience forged on a broad range of packaged goods, consumer, franchised, and retail accounts throughout North America. This has provided him with strategic skills and retail responsiveness.

Register now for this event.

AAF-Houston’s Scholarship Foundation

This year we received a record number of applications from college students in Texas. Last year we received 22 applications and this year we received 54! We are also giving away a record number of student scholarships - NINE this year versus FIVE the previous year. The quality level in the applications we received is at a all time high.

We will announce the winners around April 15th. It was a close race for our $500 awards. They will be given this year to the three top schools in number of applications submitted: University of Texas, University of Houston and Texas A & M. The grant money will go towards future student conferences. Our goal is to make the AAF-Houston scholarship program one of the best in the country.

Tax Break! Houston's Creative Bailout

Comedy - Music - Live Art – Networking Add this to your calendar NOW!

After bobbing and weaving together last year, this year's creative mixer is all about getting a little relief from work and taxes. Join Houston's leading professional creative organizations after work at Fitzgerald's on Thursday, April 15, 2010 as we socialize and enjoy another tax season passing us by. Entry is free with a cash bar

Member News

Timberley Christie has joined Locke Bryan Productions as Assistant Production Manager/Web Content. Her most recent work was with the Houston Rodeo where she spent 6 years as Studio Coordinator.

Linda Ruff has joined Locke Bryan Productions as Producer. Linda brings with her experience overseeing her client’s creative projects from start to finish in all areas of TV and radio spots, corporate video, print projects, mulitmedia and web projects. She posseses over twenty years experience in marketing, producing media, management and customer service.

12-Apr-10 7:00 PM

Lopez Negrete Communications Adds Music and Content Development to its Arsenal of Services; Names Entertainment Expert to Lead Department

Jay Hagins — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc., one of the nation’s leading and largest independent Hispanic owned and operated agencies, announces the expansion of services with the creation of a music and content development unit to be operated from its Burbank, California office. The department will be managed by talent and entertainment marketing specialist Rudy Lopez-Negrete.

“Our craft and industry have evolved far beyond the 30-second television spot. Hispanic consumers are living an intermittent and consuming media in a channel agnostic manner – and we must find powerful, relevant ways to connect our brands with them,” said president, CEO and chief creative officer, Alex López Negrete. “We have been creating award-winning music content for a number of our clients’ brands already, but, Rudy’s focus, expertise and deep entertainment background will allow us to turn it up a notch or two in this area.”

Music content and development is no stranger to Lopez Negrete Communications. The agency has conceptualized and created award-winning music for many of its clients. In 2009, Alex López Negrete collaborated with Latin Grammy and Grammy-winning performer, producer and composer Andrés Levin to work on various award-winning campaigns, including Kraft Foods and Dr Pepper. That same year the agency recorded a single and produced a music video for 7UP with up-and-coming artist “Denise,” in collaboration with Latin Grammy-winning producer and composer Gustavo Farias. In 2006, the agency created a 360º platform which included a Thanksgiving television special for client Walmart featuring the extraordinarily popular youth group RBD, which aired on Univision Network.

In his new post, Rudy Lopez-Negrete will be in charge of overseeing music and general entertainment and content initiatives for the agency and working directly with the brand and discipline teams within the agency. He will seek to service existing clients on entertainment-based projects, as well as generate new business via music driven ventures. Specific duties will include establishing and nurturing working relationships with performers, singers, songwriters, musicians, producers, performers, agents, production companies, networks and record labels; providing strategic leadership on projects that include entertainment and music components and working with the agency’s channel and brand teams; participating in negotiation discussions with music and entertainment talent and assisting in the coordination of production and execution phases of content development.

"I could not be more excited to join the Lopez Negrete team. Alex, as a leader in the Hispanic marketing industry, has time and time again shown true foresight and I am eager to help build upon his and Cathy’s vision to create a truly different kind of Hispanic marketing agency,” says Rudy Lopez-Negrete. “This new and timely venture will once again prove Lopez Negrete Communications to be ahead of the curve."

A graduate from the University of Portland, Rudy first began his career in music with the founding of the RPM music label while still in school. After obtaining his degree in Global Business through UP’s prestigious Entrepreneur Scholars program in 2003, he moved to New York to work for Elektra/Atlantic records. By 2004 he was in Los Angeles working for top talent agency Creative Artists Agency under the tutelage of Latina Magazine founder and multicultural agent, Christy Haubegger, where he had the privilege of working with premier Hispanic talents such as Shakira, Eva Longoria Parker, George Lopez and Salma Hayek. Rudy Lopez-Negrete is a native of Mexico City and son to former BMG and EMI Televisa label head, Rodolfo Lopez-Negrete.

About Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc.

Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc. is an independent, Hispanic owned and operated full-service agency specializing in Hispanic marketing. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, with a second office in Los Angeles, Calif., the company’s billings for 2009 were estimated at $164 million. Since 1985, Lopez Negrete has offered a full range of advertising, marketing and public relations services to industry leaders, including Walmart Stores, Inc., Bank of America, Microsoft Corporation, Kraft Foods (Kraft Singles, Kraft Mayonnaise, Ritz Crackers), MillerCoors (Miller Lite), NBC Universal Motion Pictures Group, Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Tyson Foods, Guerrero Mexican Foods, Azteca Milling L.P., Sonic Drive-Ins, Reliant Energy, and others. With more than 170 employees, Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc. is a proven leader in providing fully integrated national Hispanic marketing and communications services.

12-Apr-10 6:00 PM

Lopez Negrete Claims Repeat Victory in 2010 Ogilvy Awards Ceremony

Jay Hagins — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 23:00:00 GMT

Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc., one of the nation’s leading and largest independent Hispanic owned and operated agencies, has once again won the Gold in the “Multicultural” category at the American Research Federation (ARF) 2010 David Ogilvy Awards ceremony for its Hispanic Heritage Month campaign launched for the agency’s largest client, Walmart Stores. This is only the second year that the award category Multicultural has been offered by the Advertising Research Foundation (ARF). Lopez Negrete won the Gold last year for Bank of America.

“This is a very important award for us because it once again demonstrates our agency’s core ability to execute extraordinary, breakthrough creative that is grounded in the solid fundamentals of research, actionable consumer insights, and the powerful communication of key product truths,” said Alex López Negrete, president, CEO and chief creative officer of Lopez Negrete. “One of the wonderful things about this particular campaign is that it is a fully integrated body of work that contains mass media, digital/interactive, and community relations elements - yet another example of how effective Hispanic marketing is in touching the consumer in a channel agnostic, seamless manner.”

The winning campaign revolves around leveraging Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) in order to acknowledge the importance of Hispanics to Walmart as customers, associates and as vital components in the future of the United States, as well as to increase awareness of Walmart’s long-term commitment to the Hispanic community. The body of research led to the positioning statement, “the greatest heritage is a good education,” which in turn inspired 360-degree involvement from the agency and positioned Walmart as a retail resource to the Hispanic consumer far beyond a retail entity that helps Mom save money so she and her family can live better lives. The campaign demonstrated that Walmart ultimately is a committed partner in the success of her family through education.

The ARF Ogilvy Awards honor advertising research initiatives that were instrumental in developing outstanding marketing and advertising campaigns that achieved marketplace success. The criteria for the awards are based upon the application of research in four creative marketing elements: strategy development, creative development and refinement, the direction of media exposure, and demonstration of marketplace effectiveness. Named after advertising legend David Ogilvy, the awards annually celebrate his spirited advocacy of research in making good advertising better.

“The Ogilvy celebrates breakthrough moments when creative inspiration and research insights combine to produce a spectacular marketing campaign. That is exactly what we are being recognized for in the Hispanic Heritage Month campaign, the unearthing of the unified Hispanic claim that ‘the greatest heritage is a good education’ and the continuous commitment from Walmart to our Hispanic community,” said Eugenia Archetti, research director at Lopez Negrete.

This campaign is a good example of how a well-orchestrated research plan gets the insights, validation and measurement much needed in today’s corporate America. Eleven pieces of research were used to create and evaluate the campaign and include:

Campaign Development (5)

o GRA’s Nationwide Hispanic Omnibus Study

o Lopez Negrete Communications’ Exploratory

o Lopez Negrete Communications’ Concept Development

o ARS Concept Testing

o AcuPOLL Concept Testing

Campaign Measurement (6)

o Global Research Partner

o Social Quest Brand Anthem

o BIGresearch

o PRTrak

o Walmart’s Online Track

o Walmart’s Sales Data

The Lopez Negrete team that realized the campaign includes Alex López Negrete, president, CEO and chief creative officer; Frank Sendra, executive group account director; Adalis Arroyo, executive group account director; Fernando Morales, account supervisor; Miguel Serrano, consumer insights and planning director; Eirasmin Lopkez-Cobo, account planner; Eugenia Archetti, research director; Javier Gonzalez-Herba, vice president/creative director; Lalo Wakefield, creative and integration director.

About Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc.

7-Apr-10 6:00 PM

Please say a prayer for Mark Meyer of Sound Works and his family.

Lou Congelio — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Mark went into hospice care last Friday. I'm sure Mark would appreciate you saying a prayer for his wife, Pam, and his family.

30-Mar-10 12:00 PM

AAF-Houston AdSmart March - Mass Advertising is Dead

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 01:00:00 GMT

March 2010, Issue 12

In This Issue...

Introduction
Mass Advertising is Dead
AAF 10th District Convention Deadlines
6 Powerful LinkedIn Marketing Tips
Member News

Introduction

The downside of Daylight Saving time is losing an hour. Although, you would not think that one hour would make such a difference. From the somber attitude and the amount of caffeine that was consumed at work today, I am not the only one who mourns the loss of 60 minutes. However, there are other perks to this month.

St. Patrick's Day is this Wednesday giving us an excuse to down a mug or two of green beer... or perhaps a shot of Irish Whiskey. Then this Saturday is the first day of spring. Many people are celebrating by taking the entire week off for Spring break. AAF - Houston in taking some time off too. We are not hosting a monthly luncheon this month.

We will meet again in April with Hank Blank as our speaker. Hank's message is motivational and a reminder of how much better we can all be at attracting and winning potential clients. He specializes in finding advertising, public relations and interactive resources for clients based on his knowledge and his network. Everyone needs a strong network. Are you doing all you can to keep your network growing?

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Mass Advertising is Dead

Next month at the April luncheon we will hear from Hank Blank of Hank Blank Inc. His company provides marketing solutions and business building ideas for small to medium sized companies by tapping into the power of one of the largest networks in Orange County, his own.He believes 75% of all business comes from building a strong referral network.

His CD on "Why Agencies Don't Want New Business" has been well-received in the advertising community. It is based on his findings as an agency search consultant and obviously has a very facetious title. Agencies are always looking for new business and unfortunately they make mistakes that undermine their success. While agencies are great at marketing their clients they are often not very good at marketing themselves.

Register now for this event.

AAF 10th District Convention Deadlines

The housing deadline is almost here for booking convention hotels at the 10th District Convention.

To join in all the 100th Anniversary fun, you'll want to stay at the AAF 10th District Convention headquarters hotels: the Ambassador Hotel for professionals and the Holiday Inn for NSAC teams. Book your room before March 25. After that date, convention rates are not assured. There are 100 Reasons to register for the spectacular 100th Anniversary of the AAF 10th District. Make your plans now and reserve your hotel room at the convention rate using discount code 10011.

6 Powerful LinkedIn Marketing Tips

Naomi Trower posted 6 ways on how to utilize LinkedIn more effectively on the Social Media Examiner blog. She believes that LinkedIn is underutilized and that most people use it just as a résumé site. However, the professional networking site has much more potential. Are you LinkedIn? Here are three thoughts worth pursuing.

Boosting Your Search Engine Optimization - LinkedIn is a search engine and has a ton of authority on Google and other popular search engines. Instead of just linking to your website, type in a keyword phrase that describes how people can search to find your business.

Using Groups to Connect With People - Most people join groups yet rarely participate. However, why not start a group? Although it does take some effort, it is a great way to use email access to stay in touch with your group.

Getting Recommendations to Attract More Clients - Whether you are promoting your business or yourself, recommendations can go a long way. Begin by making some heartfelt recommendations for your friends. They are sure to respond favorably as well.

Member News

Elizabeth Fordham went to SMU and got into marketing & advertising because it’s always fast-paced and usually fun. She credits her parents for her hard-work ethic and her two brothers in the military who walk the talk. She enjoys Andy Rooney’s books because he sees the world from a funny yet simple perspective. In her free time she hang’s with her two peeps and enjoys hot yoga. She is usually in overdrive and her Facebook updates are usually worth reading.

Mike Reed credits his choice of entering adverting due to watching too many re-runs of Bewitched. He wished he learned earlier how the industry really functions. Agencies are nothing without media. However, When the two come together they can make magic! In his free time he likes to tinker with his Jeep Wrangler or ride his mountain bike. If he is really feeling crazy, he'll take out the road bike.

Greg Romero can never remember if he is right or left brained, but knows he can draw so channels this as a creative director for retail advertising. He wished he learned sooner that things are not all as it seems, the toys in happy meals suck, and you sleep easier if you practice forgiveness. He reads Braille and avoids TV since it is all junk. He is proud of his fortitude and ability to handle life’s extremes.

Kathleen Jones joined Lopez Negrete Communications as the new Director of Customer Relationship Management and Direct Marketing Initiatives. She will be responsible for developing and integrating CRM and direct marketing strategies for the agency’s clients. This opportunity will allow her to put her customer-focused marketing and database marketing best practices to work with clients.

Carlos Arakelian has joined Locke Bryan Productions as Production Manager/Line Producer. Carlos brings over 20 years of experience working with major advertising agencies and production companies. His background also includes extensive work with international live event production.

15-Mar-10 8:00 PM

AAF-Houston AdSmart February - Thriving In The Create-On-Demand World

Rita Trelewicz — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 03:45:00 GMT

February 2010, Issue 11

In This Issue...

Introduction
Create-Or-Die: Thriving In The Create-On-Demand World
PR, Web and Media Support Needed for Public Service Campaign
Lopez Negrete Hispanic Marketing Education Fund Scholarship
Member News

Introduction

The Nielsen IAG results are in, and the Snickers ad featuring Betty White and Abe Vigoda was the "most-liked" of all Super Bowl spots. Doritos dominated the "most-recalled" rankings, with its ads taking the top three slots. This Super Bowl was the most viewed show ever and the New Orleans Saints have lots to celebrate.

This past weekend was busy with other types of celebrations.The AAF-Houston presented the 48th annual Addy Awards, the Winter Olympics started in Vancouver, and we enter the "Year of the Tiger" as the Chinese New Year begins. Another possible reason to celebrate are the results of a survey from the Association of National Advertisers. There was a significant drop in those predicting budget decreases from 39% last summer to 22% in the current survey.

AAF-Houston is developing a "Creative Thought Leader” series. Speakers for upcoming luncheons include: Hank Blank, Search Consultant, Dan Hill, CEO, Sensory Logic, Guy Bomberino, Former Creative Director of GSD&M, and Patrick Coyne, Editor, CA Journal.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Create-Or-Die: Thriving In The Create-On-Demand World

Join us Wednesday, February 17 at the monthly luncheon and hear how Todd Henry Managing Director, Accidental Creative discusses how to thrive in the create-on-demand world. He will talk about practical disciplines that creative people and teams can use to stay brilliant over the long-term.

Todd is the founder of Accidental Creative, a company dedicated to helping creative teams thrive in the "create-on-demand" world. He helps those who work in a creative environment develop the practices they need to be prolific, brilliant and healthy over the long-term.

Accidental Creative’s website, AccidentalCreative.com, has quickly become the destination of choice for thousands of “create-on-demand” pros wanting to improve their long-term creative viability and productivity.

Todd is regularly featured as an expert on both personal and team creating. He is also a frequent speaker at conferences and to creative organizations wanting to learn how to thrive amidst the pressures of the create-on-demand world.

Register now for this event.

PR, Web and Media Support Needed for Public Service Campaign

The AAF-Houston Public Service committee is busy planning for the release of a new campaign for Friends of BARC, the volunteer arm for the City of Houston’s Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care. “We are currently refining creative concepts and moving forward with executions for TV, Radio, Print and Outdoor” says campaign director and AAF Board member Dwight Douthit.

The committee is seeking out partners who might help revamp the Friends of BARC web site and a public relations team to help with the campaign launch. “We are also calling on all media outlets to support the campaign with donations of space and time” adds Douthit. The campaign, being produced in both English and Spanish seeks to bring awareness to the group and their plight against the homeless pet over-population problem in the greater Houston area. Plans for a fundraiser are underway to help cover the hard costs of the campaign which is anticipated to launch in April. If you would like to help, please contact Dwight Douthit via email.

Lopez Negrete Hispanic Marketing Education Fund Scholarship

Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc. is encouraging students to apply for the company’s scholarship fund. This is the third year that the Advertising Education Foundation of Houston has awarded the Lopez Negrete Hispanic Marketing Education Fund Scholarship. Applicants must be bilingual and have a specific interest in Hispanic marketing and advertising.

“We consider the establishment of the Fund an investment in the youth and an investment in our industry,” says Alex López Negrete, president, CEO and CCO of Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc. “The availability of a rich and varied talent pool, bolstered by the winners of the scholarship, can guarantee that the business of Hispanic marketing remains fresh and innovative, while benefiting students facing rising tuition costs.”

“The Lopez Negrete’s are principal supporters of the local ad federation and of education,” said Jay Hagins, AAF-Houston President. “We’re fortunate to have such a generous community of businesses in the Houston area, businesses like Lopez Negrete.”

Download the scholarship application and apply by the March 1, 2010 deadline.

Member News

Mark Adams enjoys any book by William Gibson, who writes vividly twisted tales with precise, eloquent prose. His heroes include Douglas Adams for being such a mad genius in writing the “Hitchhikers’ Guide to the Galaxy” and Stanley Kubrick for his striking vision, cinematography, and love of Futura. He polled 100 people and results indicate that 60% describe him as a copywriter, designer, dork and standup comedian.

Laura Ashley is a native Houstonian. She received her undergraduate degree from UT and attended UH grad school. She loves teaching and coordinates the School of Communication's internship program and is an Instructional Professor at UH teaching advertising and public relations. In her free time she plays tennis, reads books, goes to the movies, and spends time with her husband and three children.

Kristen Sherwood likes building strong customer relationships and delivering the desired results. She enjoyed reading The Da Vinci Code because of its combination of thriller and conspiracy genres. The movie, The Blind Side, is one of her favorites due to its inspiring message of helping people. In her free time she runs along Buffalo Bayou, discovers new Houston restaurants and travels. She likes Houston’s diversity, our many professional sports teams and especially the Rodeo!

14-Feb-10 9:45 PM

Matt’s Portfolio Class adds new Account Executive/Project Management course.

Jay Hagins — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 19:00:00 GMT

Matt’s Portfolio Class, a Houston-based advertising school offering classes for undergraduates, interns, junior-level employees and small business owners, has added a third course to its lineup. The new class, called “The Account Side,” is designed to give students a taste of what it’s like to be an Account Executive or Project Manager in an advertising or marketing agency. Students will learn everything from project management techniques and habits of great Account Executives, to dealing with different kinds of clients and getting the best work from Creatives.

Matt’s Portfolio Class tapped Jenn Cox to teach the new class. Cox, a veteran of the advertising and marketing industry, has spent the last 17 years working on both the client and agency sides of the business. She is currently Account Manager at IDEA, one of the largest digital creative agencies in Texas, overseeing the HP account.

In addition to the new course, Matt’s Portfolio Class offers two other classes geared toward the creative side of advertising. “The Big Idea,” taught by IDEA Copywriter Matt Walsh, teaches students what it takes to generate concepts for ads and gives an overview of the advertising industry—working as a creative, how to build a portfolio and how to get into the business. “The Execution,” taught by Art Director Chris Hungate, also at IDEA, helps students take their ideas to the computer, giving them the technical know-how to execute ads and the design sense to do it well. “Taking these kinds of classes gives anyone who wants to work in advertising an edge. It’s an over-saturated market and anything helps to make you stand out,” Hungate says.

Walsh likes to keep things informal in the classes, adding, “We don’t give out grades, but all the work is relevant and we try to give students the same kind of work we do at the agency.”

In addition to providing students with hands-on projects, instructors bring in guest speakers from the advertising and marketing industry. Walsh notes, “We bring as many guests as we can, since what students really need is honest feedback from all perspectives. We bring in art directors, writers, creative directors, account executives, designers—anyone who we think can help and inspire our students. And it never hurts to make connections in the business.”

Matt’s Portfolio Class seems to be doing something right, since many of its former students have landed jobs or internships in Houston and around the country. Former student and current President of the UH AAF Chapter, Mariam Mouna, gives credit to Matt’s Portfolio Class for helping her land an internship at Houston agency, Love Advertising. “When the Creative Director found out I took courses outside of my undergraduate course load, she immediately knew I was serious about working in advertising,” Mouna notes.

Walsh started Matt’s Portfolio Class in the Spring 2008 and has held three sessions since then. “Our goal is simple—to train and keep talent in Houston, which, ultimately, will help Houston become a top-tier ad market,” he says.

The Spring session of Matt’s Portfolio Class starts Febrary 8^th and registration is now open. Students can register and pay online at www.mattsportfolioclass.com. The classes are held in the evenings at the Courtyard on St. James, a favorite location for Houston advertising and marketing events.

26-Jan-10 1:00 PM

AAF-Houston AdSmart January - Revolutionary Opportunities in Branded Entertainment

Rita Trelewicz — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:45:00 GMT

January 2010, Issue 10

In This Issue...

Introduction
Revolutionary Opportunities in Branded Entertainment
MIX. MINGLE. BE COOL. MADMIXER.
Advertising Hall of Fame® to Induct 8 Members
Member News

Introduction

Happy New Year! Last month we had snow and this past weekend we had a blast of arctic air. It was a great weekend to sit by the fire with a good book and sip hot chocolate. The year is starting off fantastic! While some people might not agree, I enjoy the cold weather. But as they say in Texas, if you don’t like the weather just wait, it will change.

This may hold true for the economy as well. There is some encouraging news in CareerBuilder’s recently released 2010 Job Forecast. Twenty percent of employers plan to increase their number of full-time, permanent employees in 2010, up from 14% in 2009. Only 9% plan to decrease headcount in 2010 which is down from 16% in 2009. The remainder of employers say they are unsure or don’t plan to make any changes to their headcount this year.

American’s love for celebrities is strong and music stimulates emotional reactions unlike any other advertising component. Marketers work hard to find the perfect celebrity partnership that transfers value from the celebrity to the product they endorse. As recent news illustrates, this can be risky. At our upcoming luncheon, Kevin McKiernan will talk about how to align and integrate yourself with a celebrity whose own brand reflects similar traits to your brand and objectives.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Revolutionary Opportunities in Branded Entertainment

Join us Wednesday, January 20 at the monthly luncheon and hear how Kevin McKiernan uses branded entertainment for communicating marketing messages.

Kevin McKiernan is founder and CEO of Creative License, having founded it in 1999. Kevin's mission has always been to champion the best possible entertainment solutions for any host of brand marketing challenges.

Today, his company stands as one of the leading independent music and talent supervision companies in the industry, serving as both the creative and strategic architects behind some of the most recognizable partnerships between brands and entertainment.

Register now for this event.

MADMIXER...

Start out the New Year the right way by mingling with the best in the Houston Advertising Industry. Advertising is still cool and you can be too! Come to the Mad Mixer, the swankiest mixer in town on Thursday, January 28 from 5:30 to 8:30 at the Post Oak Grill – Galleria.

Free appetizers, a cash bar, discounted membership specials and prizes for the "coolest" Mad Men inspired attire!

Advertising Hall of Fame® to Induct 8 Members

The prestigious Advertising Hall of Fame welcomes eight industry pioneers into its ranks. Now in its 61st year, the Advertising Hall of Fame has grown to include 193 pioneers and legends of the industry. Beginning this year, the AAF will induct one corporation annually into the Advertising Hall of Fame.

Roone Arledge (1931-2002), ABC News, Roy Eaton, Benton & Bowles, Pat Fallon, Fallon Worldwide, Robert James, McCann Erickson Worldwide, Bill Lamar, McDonald’s USA, Gerry Laybourne, Oxygen Media, LLC, Wally Snyder, American Advertising Federation, and Proctor and Gamble.

"The Advertising Hall of Fame seeks to inspire us all by identifying the very best in our industry. Recognizing the companies as well as the people that shape our business expands that mission. P&G is a perfect choice to be our first corporate inductee. Their immensely positive impact on the art and science of advertising and our community is and has been profound and enduring" said Mike Kelly, president & CEO, The Weather Channel Companies and chairman of the Advertising Hall of Fame Committee.

This year's induction ceremony will be at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City on March 25, 2010. The American Advertising Federation maintains the Advertising Hall of Fame on behalf of the entire advertising industry.

Member News

Ed Cantú recently joined Lopez Negrete Communications as Director of Consumer Insights. He will lead the agency’s Account Planning and Consumer Insights team and play a key role in strategic planning. His strategic planning background will help with analyzing existing data, designing and recommending methodologies, and identifying business opportunities for clients.

Emily Camille is originally a “Jersey Girl”. She got into creative recruiting because she loves people, loves helping them and loves the creative world. She enjoyed “Steel Magnolias” because she values friends & family, good laughs and good cries! She wished she learned earlier that not everyone is going to like you and that’s OK. She is bold, energetic and spontaneous and is proud to say she puts 100% into anything she commits to.

13-Jan-10 7:45 AM

Hispanic Marketing Veteran Ed Cantú Named as New Director of Consumer Insights at Lopez Negrete Communications

Jay Hagins — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON (Dec. 11, 2009) – Lopez Negrete Communications, the second largest independent, Hispanic owned and operated, full-service agency specializing in Hispanic marketing, announces the appointment of Ed Cantú to the position of Director of Consumer Insights. Cantú will lead the agency’s Account Planning and Consumer Insights team for the agency and will play a key role as a member of the Strategic Planning Team of the agency.

“I am elated to have Ed join the Lopez Negrete Communications family. I have known him from the beginnings of his career and have followed his path, which includes some of the finest agencies in the Hispanic arena and in the general market. He brings an extraordinarily well-rounded background and skill set that will help take our already established, first-class cadre of account planners to the next level,” says President, CEO and Chief Creative Officer Alex López Negrete. “I have tremendous respect for Ed and, while I have enjoyed having him as a competitor, I am certainly happier to have him as a friend and coworker,” he adds.

Already well-established in the marketing world, Cantú brings with him more than 15 years of strategic leadership in advertising and marketing. A sampling of the business relationships he has built includes Sears, Pillsbury, Anheuser-Busch, Burger King, Kimberly Clark, Bacardi, Dove, Miller Genuine Draft, Domino’s Pizza, H-E-B, Sprint, ESPN DEPORTES and Western Union.Cantú has as well held upper-ladder positions around the country at such esteemed firms as LatinWorks, Ogilvy & Mather, Leo Burnett USA, Sosa, Bromley, Aguilar, NuStats International, and the Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

“I’m proud to be one of the newest members of the growing Lopez Negrete family. I’m confident my experience with blue chip clients in both the general market and Hispanic world will allow me to serve as both a consumer advocate and creative catalyst,” says Cantú. “My goal is to balance our clients’ business objectives with artistic expression in today’s consumer reality. I hope to help further the agency’s mission and bring a fresh consumer perspective to an already strong organization with the ultimate objective of inspiring effective, breakthrough creative,” Cantú adds.

As Director of Consumer Insights, Cantú will lead the team of Lopez Negrete Communications account planners who act as a “voice of the consumer” at the agency. His background in strategic planning will ensure the highest quality in writing creative briefs, analyzing existing data, working with the agency’s research team in designing and recommending methodologies, as well as working with the business analytics team to craft a complete view of the competitive set and the business opportunities for existing and prospective clients wanting to grow their brands within the Hispanic market.

About Lopez Negrete Communications, Inc.

Lopez Negrete Communications is an independent, Hispanic owned and operated, full-service agency specializing in Hispanic marketing. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, with a second office in Los Angeles, Calif., the company’s billings for 2009 are estimated at $161 million. Since 1985, Lopez Negrete Communications has offered a full range of advertising, marketing and public relations services to industry leaders such as Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Tyson Foods, Bank of America, Microsoft Corporation, Kraft Foods (Kraft Singles), MillerCoors (Miller Lite), NBC Universal Motion Pictures Group, Azteca Milling L.P., Sonic Drive-Ins, Reliant Energy, and others. With more than 160 employees, Lopez Negrete Communications is a proven leader in providing fully integrated national Hispanic marketing and communications services.

11-Dec-09 11:00 AM

AAF-Houston AdSmart December - Mark Needs More Than Hair

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 01:00:00 GMT

December 2009, Issue 9

In This Issue...

Introduction
Mark is Bald and Needs Our Help!
Thar They Blow: ADDY® Awards Deadline
2009 American Advertising Federation Student Conference
Member News

Introduction

As I write this, I have a huge smile on my face. Mother Nature granted one of my holiday wishes. We had a snow day in Houston! Miracles can happen when you least expect them. The snow held off until after the 4th Annual HCA Holiday Mixer. It was an enjoyable event and the first week of December is off to a fabulous start.

There is a lot going on this week. Let's keep the good karma coming and plan to attend "The Mark is Bald" holiday fundraiser this Thursday at VT2 Studios. Mark Meyer and his family need your help in his battle with lung cancer.

And don't forget, the ADDY Award Entry deadline is this Friday. Members of AAF-Houston are eligible for a discounted entry fee of $95 per entry and non-members may enter for $140 per entry. The late fee is $100 per entrant, regardless of the number of entries.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

I hope all your holiday wishes come true. Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Mark is Bald and Needs Our Help!

Mark needs more than hair - he needs money for drugs! Mark Meyer, the idiot savant of audio engineering at Soundworks, is battling lung cancer. The prognosis isn't as favorable as we'd like. So VT2 Studios is hosting a holiday party to raise money for him and his family.

Now, not only is Mark a genius at painting sound, he is also a master of not making a sound when needing help. To fight this battle, Mark is going to need more than just courage. He's going to need money and support. Not only for his medical costs but for the care of his family; his wife, Pam, Mark's youngest daughter, Caitlyn, who is a senior in high school, and his first grandbaby, Eli, who just turned two.

Please join us this Thursday, December 10 at VT2 Studios on from 5 to 10PM and help support Mark. Go to MarkIsBald.org and make a donation and RSVP for the holiday fundraiser party.

VT2 Studios is located at 2401 West Bellfort. Music by Hamilton Loomis, beer by Saint Arnold and catering by Acute Events.

RSVP and Make a Donation Now for this holiday fundraiser.

Thar They Blow: ADDY® Awards Deadline

The excitement continues to build as Houston's Media Community prepares for the 48th Annual AAF-Houston ADDY® Awards! The drop off deadline is this Friday, December 11.

Drop off entry submissions at Locke Bryan Productions (800 Bering Dr. Suite 101) from 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM. If you have any questions please contact the 2010 ADDY® Chair - Nicole Fellers at 713-977-5989, ext 215.

This year we’re doing some things differently, so please pick up your entry packets in advance of the drop off deadline. For your convenience, we’ve provided some links to help your entry process go smoothly. For instructions and guidelines please go to the Houston Addy website.

2009 American Advertising Federation Student Conference

AAF Houston proudly hosted the 2009 Student Conference Competition. The Conference is a real world, hands on experience for marketing and advertising students that not only provides outstanding educational opportunities for the students, but also allows professors the opportunity to keep up with changes in the industry and with current marketing trends with the fresh ideas that students provide.

Over 230 students and 25 professors from 14 universities from the AAF district 10 region participated this year. Their mission: To tackle the marketing objective assigned by this year’s presenting sponsor, Fiesta.

The participating students were broken up into teams of 10-12 and had only one day –which was in sync with this year’s theme “Accelerate Create”— to prepare a marketing plan, media plan, and a creative video. Judging of the work took place that night by different professionals of the Houston advertising community. They announced the winning teams the next day at an awards ceremony.

AAF-Houston continues their efforts to support the advertising and marketing community by supporting and promoting education with events like this.

Member News

Jessica Bennett has had a passion for art since she was a kid. She chose graphic design over painting because she wanted to be able to pay her bills. Jessica admires Stefan Sagmeister and recently saw a couple of his posters hanging in the MOMA. He really pushes buttons and has some amazing designs. She loves Houston’s art scene, especially the Art Car Parade and strange places like The Orange Show.

VT2 Studios won a Lantern Award for their Shell Oil video. They developed a series of video segments that told the story of Shell's new gasoline formulation. The team created special effects sequences, including placing the commercial spokes-persons inside an animation of the engine to demonstrate how the Shell nitrogen enriched molecules destroy the performance-robbing gunk and protect engine parts. Ninety-seven percent of the Shell network placed orders for the gasoline launch materials.

Lopez Negrete Communications received the Gold for its “El Santa Holiday Card” at the 54th Annual Art Directors Club of Houston Awards Show. The cover shows Santa wearing a Mexican wrestling suit ready to take on those on his “naughty” list while the inside continues with the wrestling theme on the Christmas jingle “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”. The ADCh Awards Show is not easy to win and it was even more meaningful to the Lopez Negrete team since the piece was one of the last pieces written by Brett Elliott.

8-Dec-09 7:00 PM

LOPEZ NEGRETE COMMUNCIATIONS GARNERS TOP HONORS AT THE 54TH ANNUAL ART DIRECTORS CLUB OF HOUSTON AWARDS SHOW

Jay Hagins — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON (Nov. 24, 2009) – Lopez Negrete Communications, the second largest independent Hispanic owned and operated agency in the country, earned the Gold for its “El Santa Holiday Card” at the 54^th Annual Art Directors Club of Houston (ADCh) Awards Show. The agency was also recognized with two Silvers and two Bronzes in the Advertising category for esteemed clients Bank of America, Dr Pepper Snapple Group and Wal-Mart Stores.

“Houston has always had a world-class design community that has been recognized far and wide. As such, the ADCh Awards Show has never been easy to win in – but when you do, it’s a source of great pride and a sense of accomplishment,” said Alex López Negrete, president, CEO and chief creative officer of Lopez Negrete Communications.

The piece which won the ADCh Gold is the agency’s 2008 holiday card. On the cover it depicts Santa Claus with his flowing white beard, red suit and beaming eyes, but with a luchador (a Mexican wrestling suit) mask and cape, posed in a stance ready to take on those on his “naughty” list. The cover of the card reads like a throwback comic book: bright reds and blues, punchy catchphrases in 3-D text, and the kitschy use of apostrophes and exclamation marks. The inside re-imagines the old Christmas jingle “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” with wrestling slang, while wishing the recipient a happy holiday.

“It’s extraordinarily meaningful to us that the piece that won the Gold was one of the last pieces written by our esteemed friend and colleague, Brett Elliott. This piece has the impish wit that was his mark. It’s a sweet win. I know he’s smiling,” expressed López Negrete.

Along with the aforementioned Gold, the agency also brought home two Silvers and two Bronzes in the Advertising category. “The Sum,” winner of the Silver in Television (non-English) and “Step Up,” “Tango,” “Pickup,” and “School Dance” were Silver award winners for Television Series. All were created for long-time Lopez Negrete client Bank of America. The Bronzes went to Wal-Mart and to Dr Pepper Snapple Group, for the television ads “Wishful Thinking” and “Sevenísima,” respectively.

All winning work was overseen creatively by López Negrete as CCO with the creative department,as a whole, led by Vice President/Creative Director Javier Gonzalez-Herba. The “El Santa Holiday Card” team is comprised of Luis Gonzalez, executive creative director; Joshua Patron, associate creative director; Jorge Leza and Mimi Boneta, art directors; Brett Elliott, copywriter; and Miguel Rios, illustrator. The agency’s Bank of America team consists of Gonzalez; Patron; Art Director Gwendolyne Echenagucia; Copywriter Alonso Nuñez; Directory of Broadcast Production Marlo Baker; and Executive Group Account Director Marisol Cruz. The group responsible for Wal-Mart’s Vision Center Bronze award winner is Creative Director Miguel Moreno; Associate Creative Director Olga Reyes; Art Director Karen Kain; Copywriter Pablo Carpintero; Broadcast Producer Claudio Milczewski; and Executive Group Account Director Frank Sendra. And the “Sevenisima” Bronze honor can be credited to Gonzalez, Echenagucia, and Baker.

The ADCh Gold rounds off a successful award season for Lopez Negrete. In 2009 the agency was honored with 45 ADDY® Awards from the American Advertising Federation Houston, including its sixth consecutive Best of Show, later in the year, the agency was also awarded a coveted ARF David Ogilvy Award – the first multicultural trophy awarded in the history of these awards.

24-Nov-09 3:00 PM

AAF-Houston AdSmart November - Ignore Everybody and Other Keys to Creativity

Rita Trelewicz — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 03:00:00 GMT

November 2009, Issue 8

In This Issue...

Introduction
Ignore Everybody and Other Keys to Creativity
4th Annual HCA Holiday Mixer
Another Threat to Advertising Deductibility
Member News

Introduction

Hugh MacLeod, cartoonist, marketer and Web pundit believes you should ignore everybody because nobody else can tell you whether your idea is worthwhile. Although people can offer advice, ultimately it's your decision. The more original an idea, the less helpful the advice will be.

Don't miss the AAF-Houston luncheon with Hugh MacLeod this Wednesday, November 18. His book Ignore Everybody and 39 Other Keys to Creativity, is for people with a creative bug who struggle with making a living with their creativity. His book compiles advice he learned the hard way after many years. You also have the opportunity to meet him on Tuesday evening at the Coffee Groundz.

The 19th Annual Houston Media Classic Golf Tournament is Thursday, November 19. It is 18 holes of fun for a great cause. Invite your clients, your friends and your co-workers to play and help make a difference! And put a Mixer on your holiday list. That is the 4th Annual HCA Holiday Mixer. It is December 3, 2009 at the Courtyard on St. James. It should be another fabulous event.

As always, if there is something you want to share, drop me a line at rtrel@rtmarcom.net. I look forward to hearing from you.

Until next month, thanks for reading!

Rita Trelewicz
Editor
AAF Houston AdSmart

Ignore Everybody and Other Keys to Creativity

When Hugh MacLeod was a struggling young copywriter, living in a YMCA, he started to doodle on the backs of business cards while sitting at a bar. Those cartoons eventually led to a popular blog – gapingvoid.com – and a reputation for pithy insight and humor, in both words and pictures.

MacLeod has opinions on everything from marketing to the meaning of life, but one of his main subjects is creativity. How do new ideas emerge in a cynical, risk-averse world? Where does inspiration come from? What does it take to make a living as a creative person?

Per Seth Godin, Marketing Guru, “Creativity is not a genetic trait, nor is it reserved for professionals. Everyone is creative sooner or later, but unfortunately, most people have it drilled out of them when they're kids. Hugh undrills it. He harangues and encourages and pushes and won't sit still until you, like him, are unwilling to settle. Go ahead. You deserve it. And we need your contributions. We can't wait!”

Please join us Wednesday, November 18 and learn that selling out is harder than it looks, to stop trying to stand out from the crowd; avoid crowds altogether instead and that an idea doesn’t have to be big. It just has to be yours.

Register Now for this event.

4th Annual HCA Holiday Mixer

Celebrate with Houston's largest and most successful organizations and their members, December 3, 2009 at the Courtyard on St. James.

Listen to the Harbor Lights Chorus and Ezra Charles - The King of Texas Blues.

Brought to you by: AAFH, Ad2, AIGA, AMA, Art Directors Club, AWRT, HDMA, IABC, MIT Forum, OiH, PIGC and PRSA.

Another Threat to Advertising Deductibility

Senators Al Franken, D-Minn., Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., have introduced legislation (S. 1763) to disallow the federal tax deduction for all advertising and marketing expenses for prescription drugs. The Senators have indicated they would like to have the proposal added to the health reform legislation and may offer it as an amendment when the measure is considered by the full Senate.

Contact your Senators and express your strong opposition to any effort to deny the deductibility of advertising expenses. Senators can be contacted through the Senate webpage or by calling the Senate switchboard at 202-224-3121.

Member News

To help break the ice if you see any of these members at an upcominmg event, we profiled a few. If you have any news you want to share with the group or want to include a short profile in future newsletters, please contact Rita Trelewicz. Let the Houston Ad Crowd know what is going on with you!

Katie Edgett arrived in Houston 9 months ago. She has lived in Minnesota, Georgia, Texas, California, New York, and Germany. Katie believes that it’s important to recognize the purpose for every person you encounter. You never know what you can learn and the benefit is that you can have hundreds of heroes. People describe her as laid back and always smiling. Her work ethic is strong, no matter what the project.

Jen Frazer has worked in constituent communications, newspaper consulting, and graphic design. She gets a thrill making clients happy. To her, advertising is the logical intersection between business needs and creative urges. Jen sings in her free time and is a semi-professional mezzo-soprano. She has performed with the Bach Choir and the Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Houston. After decades of trying, she recently got into decent shape

Cathy Hayek is an Aggie. Whoop! Her father always told her, "You never know unless you try." She keeps that in mind every day. This year she enrolled in an acting class to pursue her dream of becoming an actress and is having a blast! Cathy holds the national rank as the 6th Best Mascot for 2000. Yes, you read that right. She was her high school's mascot and loved it. In her free time she plans parties.

Chris McClean is a web design and Flash specialist. He despises repetitive work and as a designer he gets to work on a variety of projects. His favorite movie of 2009 is Inglorious Basterds because it’s classic Tarantino with a humorous take on the WW2 movie. He likes Houston's vibe. People are friendly and there is a lot to do although you have to dig below the surface to find things. He recently started learning swordsmanship.

Mike Morgan went to Auburn University and wished he learned how to study sooner. While he might not have been a strong student, he was persistent. Perhaps that is why he does well as a sales rep for Vulcan Information Packaging. He spends his free time outdoors as much as possible, walking his dog, fishing, hunting or spending time with his family.

Rachel Villarreal is a recent graduate of UT Arlington. She took Intro to Advertising her freshman year and it was love. During school she was thinking of the now and not the future, focused on making money to pay for college. In retrospect, she wished she realized the importance of an internship and took on more loans. Her goal is to work at an Ad agency. She recently started doing Bikram Yoga. It is tough, but worth it.

15-Nov-09 9:00 PM

OiH Adds Obituary Link to Site

Lou Congelio — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:15:00 GMT

DEATHS

As a special remembrance to our colleagues who have passed before us, Only in Houston has added a new link to the site honoring our departed friends.

If you would like to add the name of a friend in the industry who is not listed below, please send information to Lou Congelio at lou@stanandlou.com.

Click here to view link

Bob Knowlton, October 21, 2009

Jim G. Hetherly, 1934 - 2009

Mary Elford, June 9, 2009

Dan Ammerman, May 11, 2009

Brett Elliott, March 30, 2009

Sabra Gill, 1941 -2009

Dawn Wolf, September 3, 2008

Ray Miller, September 27, 2008

Mike Kleinhenz, July 11, 2008

Mike Scott, June 7, 2008

Gary Easterly, May 25, 2008

Ron Stone. May 13, 2008

Tom Jones, May 12, 2008

Harry T. Rogers, 1924 - 2008

O. Joe Russell, April 11, 2008

Chuck Singleton, April 9, 2008

S. T. "Tom" Hensley, 1934 - 2008

Jim Anthony, 1924 - 2008

Ray Soto, January 19, 2008

Eugene Peter Kosmoski, 1932 - 2008

Joey Hernandez, 1971 - 2007

Mike Delahoussaye, Oct 20, 1949 -Nov 8, 2007

Charles Lutz, Aug. 28, 2007

Bill Griffin, 1940 - 2007

Brian Korshak, 1934 - 2007

Richard High, September 19, 2006

Adie Marks, 1914-2006

Steven Douglas Malito, 1955 - 2006

Amber Davis, 1980 - 2006

Bennett Seymour "Ben" Pearlman, 1942 - 2006

Frank Dobbs, 1939 - 2006

Jean William Brown, 1928 - 2004

Diane Walling, 2004

Tom Rogers, April 30, 2003

Lyle Metzdorf. 1935 - 2002

Bruce Henry Davis, 1948 - 2001

Jim Schell, Dec 22, 2001

Ken Polk, 1998

Aileen Bennett, 1997

Rikie McDaniels, July 31, 1995

Don Gordon, Jan 27, 1992

Doug Timm, 1960 - 1989

4-Nov-09 12:15 PM