Sunday, March 25, 2012

Trends In the Entertainment Industry and How being a Recent College Graduate Prepares Me To Excel In These Areas

There are two trends in the entertainment industry I would like to discuss, which is public relations and social media (bloggers). These 2 entities within the entertainment industry has changed drastically and are definitely interrelated with each other. It has become almost impossible to use one without the other, especially with the huge demand for a social media buzz by record labels for artist. Due to social media it has changed the way businesses make decisions. However, I'm a publicist and work all my clients public relations projects, and I find myself working closely with bloggers, and journalist. Bloggers and journalist live in the internet world and all their content is released virally on a consecutive basis. Having relationships with these bloggers and journalists makes my job as a publicist run much smoother, as I also have clients that content needs to be spread out virally through the internet.

As a publicist I need the journalist & bloggers and as a blogger and journalist they need publicists, we both have the control to influence the public opinion. However, publicist have the celebrity client & news, but the bloggers and journalist have just the news. Most of the time bloggers and journalist would contact publicist for a story on their celebrity client and then release it through print and virally on the internet. Publicist contact bloggers and journalist when they want content from their clients to go viral, and we also have the power to invite them to our red carpet star studded events.

As a recent graduate from fullsail I'm prepared to excel in these areas within the entertainment industry because of knowledge I gained thus far. The knowledge I have gained, such as knowing what SEO, back links are have opened my eyes to understand the importance of my relationships with bloggers and journalists. Having digital marketing as an imperative goal as a publicist for your clients makes social media seem easy.


Posted By: Sparkle Callahan


Resource:
http://blog.prnewswire.com/2011/12/27/trends-in-public-relations-for-2012/


Monday, March 12, 2012

The 3 Remedies For Entrepreneurs Fear: Accept, Appreciate, and Adjust


The 3 Remedies For Entrepreneurs FEAR: Accept, Appreciate and Adjust


As a entrepreneur the world of business can be very challenging whether your opening up a home business or public business. The fear of not being successful, not making the right decisions or letting your staff or clients down can be food to the word fear. The fear creeps up because in business many things are very unpredictable and everyday is not the same. However, being an entrepreneur puts you in leadership position and the reliability of others. As an entrepreneur we sometimes look for an answer to fall out of the sky or a budget to be released from the heavens. But, according to www.inc.com as an entrepreneur with fear you should accept, appreciate and adjust the way you think. If we do not accept, appreciate and adjust we are giving ourselves headaches and many sleepless nights.

As an entrepreneur accept your current situation and have the faith and strength to move forward. Once you accept you have the strength to move on because you face the situation head on and attempt to figure out what may work best. But, not accepting will keep you stagnated on your current reality especially if your current situation may not be so bright. Acceptance will allow you to overcome fear and strategize by getting an action plan in motion.

As an entrepreneur appreciating how far you have come and recognizing the things about your business and life that are going well, will allow you to see the better side of things. This is a mental process and notes that whatever you think about will change your way of thinking in seconds. Understand that in entrepreneurship there are always new things to learn, so appreciate what you have so far and move forward.

Lastly, is adjust start to think what you want as an entrepreneur and your possibilities. Start to change your way of thinking and see things from a brighter perspective. The questions such as what can I do to make things better? What will it take? What tools do I need? This is all in changing your thoughts from negative to positive.


Posted by Sparkle Callahan

Resources:

www.inc.com


Monday, February 27, 2012

How I was Inspired by 2 Industry experts to make changes to my Business plan

I have been inspired from experts Phillip Schelin and Scott Pollov. I have intended to incorporate what I have learned from them into my own business plan as a new business owner.

Expert Phillip s Schelin stresses his philosophy in investing in a product/brand or company. His philosophy is "There must be a need for the product, not just to have, but must have a great purpose." I intend on incorporating this train of thought into my own business plan, because its another way of saying "Be Different" or "Stand Out." If your doing the same thing everyone else is doing how can your company be of interest to an investor? My company is a need because there are many entertainers who need 24 hour access of their record label and mostly do not want to be locked into a 360 deal. In today's economy a 360 deal will stress an artist budget out because if record sales are down, they will look for their endorsements to make up the difference financially. Therefore, sharing your profits from endorsements or any other gig besides music, which is a 360 deal will only keep the artist financially drained. In today's world of music a non contracted 360 deal is definitely a sort after need by the artist.

Another philosophy of Phillip is to have a strong management team in place. Although I will be CEO of my company having a strong management team will get the job done. Management teams are the ones who make the impossible "Possible." The management team for my record label will cater to the artists needs 24 hours a day and although their requests may not be a need, the management team will make it happen. Therefore, I will definitely have a strong management team in place for the success and benefits of my clients.


Expert Scott Pollov focuses on the world of social marketing as an essential asset for a small business success. His theory is that a small business should utilize social marketing for advertisement purposes. Social Marketing brings the new company awareness and popularity through advertising their products/services. I definitely intend on having social marketing as apart of seeking budgeting from an investor for these services. Social marketing is primarily done through the internet, which is also called viral marketing, social media and etc.

Also, Scott ties together his theory of social marketing with having a strong business plan in place. I intend on also having a strong business plan in place. He stresses having a strong business plan because if you can persuade an investor to invest in your brand because it's a need, you have a strong management team, and social marketing your business plan is at an all time high because now the investor sees he can generate revenue.

Currently, I have modified my most recent business plan and added a larger financial budget request for social marketing, seeking more ambitious individuals for management, and i'm making sure the need of the brand is properly stressed within my business plan. I consider these sections to be most important because this depicts if funds can be generated and multiplied.


Posted By Sparkle Callahan
resources: http://bpexpertviews.blogspot.com/ 

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Advice From Two Business Plan Experts

Expert Philip Schelin has been in the retail industry for nearly 30 years. He was also CEO of Macy's California. During Philip duration of time there at Macy's he helped the company profit nearly a billions dollars in 11 years. He also had his time on the board of directors at Apple Computer, which is one of the largest technology chains in the world. Expert Philip Schelin has his BA degree in economics and has worked in the retail field for a long time. This kind of experience tells me that he is interested in generating revenue. Although, most investors like to generate money and like to take part in projects that they know will make a return. As an investor expert Philip Schelin likes to invest in things that has a need for it. He believes a product can not be just nice to have, but it must have a great purpose, such as a "need to have." Philip also looks for a great management team, which is very important because although the idea may not be significant, a great management team will make it happen. Philip and most investors make their money through investments. Philip is interested in making money in the field of retail, so opening up a retail business and asking Philip to invest may be more than likely a positive. Philip has originated some investments in Petsmart, Fresh Choice,  and house of Blues.

Expert Scott Pollov has more than 15 years of experience in planning, developing, financing, marketing and more. He has been the founder and managing director of Bizplanit.com and in 2010 chief operations officer a accelerant, a software and IT firm. Although, he seems like a business man of many hats, he definitely is interested in social marketing. According to Scott, Social marketing should be top priority for a small business for advertisement. Scott makes his money from many entities of the business world, but he is a business plan guru. Scott primary goal is to bring together a strong business plan.






Posted By Sparkle Callahan




http://www.usvp.com/printable/bios/PhilS.html
http://www.usatoday.com/money/smallbusiness/startup/week6-qa-business-plan.htm
http://www.soundid.com/about/schlein.html
http://www.networkingphoenix.com/profile/spollov
http://www.peekyou.com/scott_pollov/308195138
http://www.caycon.com/consultant-Scott-Pollov.php


Sunday, January 22, 2012

Is SOPA a GOOD thing or a BAD thing?

Is SOPA a GOOD thing or a BAD thing?


SOPA was designed and made to block out unknown websites that traffic in pirated American material. This act can have an ideal major impact on google, Facebook, twitter and any other major internet site. There is good benefits from SOPA and there is bad benefits from SOPA. Having SOPA can be good for the business or company getting their product sold on line without their input. SOPA can even benefit for all the cyber bullying and or crimes with the youth that take place over the net. However, the bad benefits can affect google, which is one of the largest internet resources for information. This can also affect all independent artists that are pursing a musical career or any kind of career that utilizing the internet for free advertisement and promotions.

There has been copyright negligence due to the internet being a free way to make money or to release free product items. As a result many musicians are making less than half of what they use to make in revenue. There are also ways a paypal can be set up for product purchases of books, music, movies and more. Many business owners most times do not know about other sites that maybe selling their products. Once the owner founds out, through SOPA they will be able to get this site removed and google will have to respect this request. Although, I understand the good and the bad benefits of SOPA, I do believe that this will not take place. Because the internet is such at a high demand of how business is handled and also more convenient consumers, SOPA will not take place. There are so many applications that cell phones all have that allow free music downloads and product purchases. Although, we may not know exactly who is creating these sites its still a good benefit as well as a bad benefit. SOPA is definitely a bitter sweet situation!



Posted By: Sparkle Callahan


Resources

http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/sopa-people-article-1.1009499?localLinksEnabled=false

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzqMoOk9NWc

Sunday, January 8, 2012

A CHUNK of your LIFE is digital!!!

In todays world of technology it's almost impossible not to have a cell phone, seek information from the internet or use a computer. Technology has evolved in the past years in so many ways, but ultimately forcing consumers to depend on it for resources. There are many people in todays society who was forced to become computer literate due to employment of having to apply for an opportunity, which required an online application. Apparently it is obvious that technology has just made itself inevitable to consumers. When cell phones are purchased, especially smart phones they come with multiple applications for download, such as youtube, Facebook and twitter. Most banks as well are utilizing the internet for transactions such as deposits, withdrawals, inquiries and transfers. It is almost impossible to conduct any kind of business today without using the internet as a resource, "A Chunk of Your Life is Digital." 149

There are several major marketing digital businesses, such as social network marketing, database marketing, mobile marketing, search engine marketing, search engine optimization, and viral marketing. using these marketing strategies have different purposes. For instance, social marketing is to interact/network and make connections through twitter, Facebook, linkedIn etc. Database Marketing is a huge information board of contacts to your target audience of consumers, Database Marketing is used to inform. Mobile Marketing is utilizing the internet through a mobile device such as a cell phone. Search Engine Marketing is pay per click of advertisement and you are paying for Ad placement. Search Engine Optimization is making sure your site is easy to find through the search browser, this is important to any kind of Digital Marketing campaign. Your search should be made easy to the consumer so they may find you when needed. Viral Marketing creates awareness through Facebook, twitter, youtube etc. Having this kind of Digital Marketing creates popularity viral through the internet. 163

When you pay close attention to the way of communication, retrieving information, creating awareness, connecting and networking this shows you and the consumer that A CHUNK of your LIFE is digital!!!!


Resources

http://www.corporategovernance-asia.com/2011/12/26/the-importance-of-digital-marketing-getting-in-touch-with-todays-consumer/

Posted By Sparkle Callahan

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Disney and its opportunities for today's youth/Sports

I must say I'm grateful to have learned of a particular outlet for today's talented youth. Yesterday, I took my son Moses to an audition for Disney networks. The audition took place in NYC and in attendance they had some of the top managers and agents in the country to evaluate the kids performance. The organization is called "The Event."This organization works collectively with Disney to find the next best talent for any upcoming projects they may have at hand. Although, my son is very talented in performing arts he is pursing acting and Soccer as a future career. I was excited to meet these important people that may be able to get my son to the next level in his career. There were many different industry professionals there such as Discover Inc. management, Hines and Hunt management, Eye management and more. These industry professionals found talent and placed them with jobs such as Disney XD,  Gaspard & Lisa (Disney Jr's new animated series), Hannah Montana, Zeke and Luther (Disney Channel) and more. 170

Attending this event I was very pleased to be informed that Disney ESPN also has a boys Soccer opportunity titled "Disney's Soccer Showcase" for boys. Once I heard this information I was delighted and grateful that Disney and its opportunities for today's youth is so extensive. This Disney Soccer showcase is rated #1 youth Soccer Tournament in US. At this showcase there are hundreds of college coaches observing for the new soccer talent. This showcase gives young boys the opportunity to be selected to a great college on behave of a college scholarship and a promising Soccer career. The next showcase will be held between December 27-30, 2011 and the onsite tournament registration is on December 26, 2011. The tournaments will be held at Lake Myrtle Sports Complex, Austin Tindall Regional Park, and Hess Sports Fields at ESPN wide world Sports Complex. Networking and attending is very important I'm excited I went to this event as Disney has many opportunities for the youth in performing arts and sports.

Resources: http://espnwwos.disney.go.com/events/soccer/soccer-showcase-boys/

http://disneyauditions.com/


Posted By: Sparkle Callahan

Sunday, December 4, 2011

NBA Lockout is Now Over what about the Little people?

    Since the lockout is now over and the millionaires vs Billionaires have now conquered their goals, what about the little people? This has been a well over 6 month debate with athlete and NBA owners. Although, the athletes were not happy and owners were not content, they did not suffer as much as the little people. The little people are the structure workers such as parking attendants, vendors, maintenance workers, electricians and more. As a result of the NBA lockout many of these employees were out of a job. And fans were disappointed as their seasonal tickets went to waste. Restaurant owners such as Tavern lost over $1million dollars in revenue as well.

Due, to the NBA lockout there will be a price hike in tickets, but more empty seats as there are unsatisfied fans. Many people are excited that the NBA lockout is now over and see it as a christmas gift. But, there are many of the little people still suffering from this drastic 6 month ordeal. The question now is will there be some kind of discount or reimbursement for the disappointed fans and unemployment wages accomodated for the dislocated workers? while the NBA lockout debated about meeting common ground between themselves, there were the little people suffering. Many structured workers suffered with mortgages and livelihood, while the millionaires and billionaires debated amongst themselves. Currently, there are no days off within the NBA and everyday count. But, although there will many empty seats, the show will still go on. The lockout affected many people and more than what the owners and athletes of the NBA could ever imagine.


http://www.forbes.com/sites/sportsmoney/2011/12/02/why-the-nba-lockout-wasnt-so-bad-after-all/


Posted By: Sparkle Callahan

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Sports Talk SHow Host Devan Wade Interview


It is a blessing and very inspiring when your able to connect and network with someone in your same career interest. I had the opportunity to interview Devan Wade, which is a sports talk show host in Houston, TX.
Devan Wade was very cooperative and inspiring when I asked him for an interview. His words of inspiration were “ I love to share and help others, especially Afro Americans who are ambitious.” Once I heard this I was very excited and knew I made the right selection because as an aspiring sports agent every little encouragement helps.
         Devan Wade has been a talk show host since 1992 and has had the opportunity of interviewing sports professionals, entertainment professionals and politicians. He was employed with The Houston Informer as a freelance editor for many years. The Houston Informer newspaper is the oldest African American newspaper west of Mississippi. Currently, Devan Wade is a talk show host for radio station KTSU in Houston, Tx and his show is titled “The Friday Express.”
         During my Interview with Devan Wade I was very interested in the following questions:
1. As a talk show host what kind of athletes do you mostly interview?

Devan: “I Work with retired athletes in Houston most with notoriety, such as NFL players and pro athletes and NBA players from all major sports. Most of the time I will set up my own interviews with folks from media relationships I have built over the years. Also, through personal relationships such as PR people. I interview athletes mostly when they are promoting something. Also some of the interviews come through the organization. For instance, like through their team or through their facility. I get many interviews during the athlete off-season because they come to promote their charity foundations or upcoming events.”

2. Which kind of athlete do you enjoy interviewing most?

Devan: “Honestly, it’s not much different. But, football players are most guarded, more relaxed, I’m not sure if it’s part of their contracts or what. But they are the easiest. I don’t have a real preference, but mainly concerned about what topic I choose to speak about. Houston is more football base, which allows me to focus more on football athletes and stories.”

3. Which athlete was the most exciting to interview?

Devan: “Most exciting interview I have had was with legendary former football player Jim Brown. He was entering into a lot of social things in the 60’s and broke a lot of barriers. He was the first leading black man to have a love interest for a white woman in the movie titled “Hundred Rifle.” I interviewed him a couple of years ago and he has a successful foundation called “Imerican I can.” We Sat for an hour and talked about sports and social issues as well, and the changes within the African American culture. This was my most exciting interview to date.”


4. What were some of the steps a soccer player took in becoming a successful soccer player?

Devan: “The Houston dynamo playing David Beckham and the La Galaxy is very successful. I have not spoken to any Soccer players. But, I spoke with the Soccer team president. My audience is not big in soccer, But Oliver luck I had the privilege of sitting down with. His excitement about bringing professional soccer to the city of Houston was our main discussion. The team which is currently in Houston called the “Dynamo” Oliver Luck was a big influence in bringing the team to Houston”


5. What and which athlete interview was your most heartfelt & memorable moment?

Devan: “My most heartfelt interview was with former boxer Gerald McClellan. He was a champion and he fought in London. He almost died because of severe injuries and became very sick due to brain damage. I spoke with him briefly between his sister and himself because sometimes he would forget or take a long time to speak. He had to raise a foundation for his kids, and many people in boxing forgot about him. It’s memorable as well because I always wanted to get in contact with Joe Frazier for an interview. But, I was not able to make that happen. I have interviewed Floyd Mayweather and I’m excited and waiting to see him fight boxer “Paqchioa”. I bring these boxers up because I had the privilege of interviewing Gerald. But, not Joe Frazier and I can say that I have covered the current major most relevant boxers interviews.”


Name: Sparkle Callahan

Interviewee: Devan Wade

Title: Host of Sports Talk

Twitter: @wadeword

Company: Host of KTSU's The Friday Express Houston Native
Contact info: KTSU 3100 Clebourne, Houston, Tx 77004
Ph: 713 313-7591 Fax: 713 313-7479




Monday, November 14, 2011

Boxer: Floyd MONEY Mayweather Social Media Presentation

In my Social Media presentation I will be discussing undisputed champion Boxer Floyd MONEY Mayweather. I will be discussing his enhancements as a social media participate, as well as analyzing his media presence thus far. Click the link below:


Presentation Link: http://www.viddler.com/explore/sparkle1/videos/11/

Sources:

www.floydmayweather.com
www.atlpics.net
www.prinyourpajamas.com/traditional-media-for-pr/
www.reuters.com/article/2011/05/13/us-twitter-celebrities-odd-idUSTRE74C3BA20110513

By Sparkle Callahan
Twitter: @sparklecallahan
Linkedin.com/sparklecallahan

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Facilities Management Nov 6, 2011


In sports finances is very imperative to keep teams and the athletes going. However, pro athletes and major leagues suffer less or if not at all compared to the little leagues such as college sports. During, economic hardships there are still ways for the smaller leagues to survive. With the correct strategic planning with heartfelt ambition it can happen. In other words creating your very own events, and proposals to charity foundations. Being different by implementation can create creative ways to sustain economic hardship within a sports team.
         Mostly in the south college football passion drives financial stability. In 2007 5 of the top 10 revenue producers in college football was: Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Auburn and LSU. No matter what the recession and economic restraints are at the time these schools are still able to sell tickets, and have there contracts still in place with sponsorships. Because of their passion in the south they will always come out on top. Having passion for your league, will allow you to make ways to continue in prosperity. It is almost impossible to keep a college football league going every semester, especially if the team is not in the pro league. Therefore, passion will allow one to create events, write proposals and be different by implementation.
         Many lay offs and threats of canceling sports programs within the smaller college leagues have been threaten, especially in Louisiana. However, donors from the community helped out just in time before any tennis or sports division was omitted. When donors within your community help out and donate this is called passion.
         There are various ways I would be able to generate revenue for my sports division during a recession. The first approach I would do is create a wonderful and beneficial event, with a ticket purchase of $30.00 for non-students & $10.00 for students. I would have the event on the college campus of the team league. It would be either in the auditorium or out in the campus field. The event would consist of a mainstream or Pro athlete making an appearance at the school. The Pro athlete will be urged to speak to the students, faculty, community, and etc about the importance of sports/talent. The Pro athlete will sign autographs during, the allotted time set a side for a meet and greet and photos opts. depending on how much money need to be raised I will have this event with different Pro athletes once a month until we reach our goal.
         The second approach I would also utilize is writing proposals to charity foundations and various companies for monetary assistance for the college students. Since, I’m already experienced with writing such proposals I will be able to submit to many different organizations on the college behalf. I will explain to the organization benefits they would gain by donating for a good cause. It’s always someone somewhere willing to help and passionate about keeping programs continuing within a college. Which is why my target base will be charity foundations because they understand the importance of keeping students goals first.

Articles:
Posted By:
Sparkle Callahan

Sunday, October 30, 2011

ADIDAS AND REEBOK MERGES IN AUGUST 2005

When I first heard or Adidas and Reebok doing a joint venture in year 2005, my initial thought was why? I thought why? because they are both household brand names and I did not see why it would be necessary to collaborate. However, Adidas felt that they could do better together than apart. Bringing both brands together would build a driving force mechanisms to the world of sports.

Germany's Adidas Saloman agreed to buy Reebok international for 3.1 billion euros. Although, Nike is a huge brand as well, Adidas & Reebok combined are ready to give NIKE a run for their money. Investors are willing and ready to give NIKE a huge challenge, with this new collaboration with Reebok and Adidas. The key to this this collaboration is for Adidas to expand their geographic reach. Adidas will focus on one geographic area, while Reebok will focus on another. The most important geographic area for Adidas is North America, as Adidas feels it is very imperative to conquer. Adidas goal is to be number 2 in the sporting goods market worldwide, and to create footwear and apparel that addresses a wider demographic spectrum. (187)

In 2005 the companies already saw $150 million dollars in annual savings collaboratively. This kind of money was seen through the world of Hip Hop music. Adidas and Reebok began to target NBA players and Hip Hop artists with endorsements, and product identity. Hip Hop artist Missy Elliott supported Adidas tremendously, while other Hip Hop artists such as Jay z & 50 Cent supported Reebok. Although, Adidas and Reeebok had their share of celebrity support, NIKE also had their celebrity support with Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods, as NIKE is not too much into the urban world, but have fairly made great advancement with these urban personalities. Adidas has been feeling heat from other brands as well such as Puma. However, this just drives Adidas to concentrate on a higher margin of innovation, along with its collaboration with Reebok.

Articles

http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/aug2005/nf2005084_8340.htm

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=rovell_darren&id=2123332

Posted By: Sparkle Callahan

Sunday, October 23, 2011

The MMA denies Major media outlets at their sport events

April 2011 Although the MMA (UFC) is a sport, the confidence of them going totally mainstream has been in doubt. I found this article about the MMA very interesting because although they may not be seen as a total mainstream sport. They have denied major sports reporters and major media outlets press credentials. When a sport denies major press, this is also a way of saying they are denying going mainstream. Media outlets, reporters, journalists, press, bloggers, social media Guru's and etc are all the driving force to make one obtain their public awareness. The question that I asked is "what would make a sport division banned press and media from their event?"

The MMA sports is arguing that press and media outlets, service false materials to their readers about the MMA. According to President of the UFC Dana White, he did not consider some press outlets stories worthy of his PR clip file. Dana White banned the most prominent media outlets such as ESPN and CBS. The journalists that were denied press credentials were long time media supporters of the UFC, which were  ESPN Josh Gross and Loretta Hunt. According to a spokesperson at CBS '' We serve a growing base of MMA fans on CBSSports.com, so we're obviously disappointed the credential request was denied"







http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jeff_wagenheim/04/13/credentials/index.html

http://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/Dana-White-We-only-credential-real-media-?urn=mma-156706

http://www.cagepotato.com/dana-white-never-forgets-espns-josh-gross-cbs-sports-loretta-hunt-and-sherdogs-jeff-sherwood-denied-media-credentials-for-strikeforce-diaz-vs-daley/

Posted By Sparkle Cllahan

Sunday, October 16, 2011

NBA LOCKOUT 2011-2012

This newly lockout controversy with the NBA seems to be the biggest dispute within the past 5 years. After union president Derek Fisher non chalant attitude and the athletes stubborness, I find it quite odd to see former Chicago Bulls player Dennis Rodman state his opinion on the lockout. According to Rodman "I just think that…the players should bow down….In 1999 we (were locked out) and missed half the season, Most players don't give a [expletive] about the game. They want the money and all of a sudden they want unity. I'm not taking the owners' side. I think the players should look at themselves." Of course having this lockout cause athletes,  loose out on their money, although the flip side is, should the athletes just sign an agreement without mutual benefits?. According to Rodman the athletes need to just compromise and take the agreement for less money, instead of loosing money. Seasons are being canceled, fans, supporters and people are without jobs due to this 2 month lockout.


According to Gary Roberts "I said a year ago that the NFL would settle in the August, and I said the NBA would not settle and would probably lose the entire season, and I think that's exactly what's going to happen." The NBA loosing out on its entire season would definitely be a total lost for the athletes, because they will still have and unsettled case and a lost of revenue. According to NBA executive Billy Hunter he saw the day that 2011-2012 NBA regular season games would have to be canceled. I wonder why did Billy Hunter foresee this episode of events?


I really think that the owners should be able to make some more reasonable offers in regard to the agreement for the athletes. Also, it seem sort of selfish because their are fans and supporters who have paid for there season tickets in advance and had to get a reimbursement. This kind of behavior within the NBA is very inconsiderate and maybe more damaging to the brand than worrying about revenue. However, without a brand there is no way to really retrieve revenue. As of right now October 16, 2011 there still has yet been a determination in regard to this lockout, hopefully soon a decision will be made and the NBA can move forward or there will be an entire season missed!


http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/story/2011-10-11/What-you-need-to-know-about-the-NBA-lockout/50735802/1
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ycn-10205927

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Marcus Jordan is The cause of UCF loosing its Adidas Sponsorship

In the world of sports there are many stipulations and protection laws that must be in place, for the protection of trademarks, patent laws, and copyrights. Over the years there has been many controversies with sports teams taking legal action against another team or company because of this matter. However, it is important to protect all brands, logos etc to avoid any sort of legal action.

Recently, Professional basketball player Michael Jordan son Marcus Jordan denied wearing an Adidas sneaker during his game. But, instead insisted he wear his father air Jordan Nike Air sneakers, although Adidas was sponsoring the UCF. When Marcus denied wearing the Adidas sneaker during his game, Adidas then terminated their sponsorship with UCF. The UCF is now suffering from any future sponsorships because of this matter. Part of the sponsorship all coaches, and athletes were suppose to wear the Adidas clothing. However, I guess Marcus saw this as a conflict of interest/trademark issue with his father brand Nike Air. The UCF lost its 3million dollar adidas sponsorship and any future Adidas sponsorships is also in question. However, Marcus argues the fact that the school said he could wear his father sneakers, although they knew they had a contract with Adidas. It was very important for Adidas to have the most famous athletes to wear their apparel during the UCF games. It would have been a mutual benefit for Michael Jordan's son Marcus Jordan to wear Adidas sneakers during the game.


Resources;

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/05/marcus-jordan-wears-dads_n_346783.html

http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_bianchi/2009/10/i-dont-blame-adidas-i-dont-blame-them-one-bit-in-the-controversy-regarding-what-brand-of-shoes-marcus-jordan-the-son-o.html

http://chicagoist.com/2009/11/05/jordan_wears_nike_adidas_bids_adieu.php

Posted By Sparkle Cllahan



Sunday, August 21, 2011

Facility Management Post


In the world of sports they are suffering financial strains and changes due to the economy. There have been closed offices, lay offs, minor professionals leagues also have folded. However, throughout the financial strains and economical changes there are creative ways a facility manager can bring revenue, during slow times.
            There have also been tremendous financial cuts in the college world of sports. In Florida, football team the Florida Gators according to the Orlando Sentinel has been affected. Team Hats, jackets, and shirt sales has dropped and in 2009 football ticket prices were not increased, which was a reward to the fans. In other smaller colleges there were severe budget cuts and some sports eliminated on campus altogether. However, as a facility manager there are ways to create revenue to avoid these types of situations to occur. As a college student they are always looking for the next big event at their college.
            Since, I have experience in the field of event planning, I will first look into an event, or concert to generate funds for the college campus to keep their athletic department running. College students love entertainment and celebrity artist coming to their school to perform. As facility manager I would plan for a celebrity concert and sale tickets. I would choose a popular mainstream artist that I have a secure business relationship with, to perform for the College for free, but for a news worthy cause. This will be a mutual benefit between the college and the entertainer. The entertainer will gain press and philanthropic recognition, while the college will be able to keep their athletic department going by ticket sales. All proceeds earned from ticket sales will go to the college athletic department. Of course I would prepare this concert in advance for a great outcome and sale the tickets for $25.00.
            When a new arena or stadium is built it generates revenue because it’s new and the sports fans will want to support their favorite team. As a facility manager when there maybe economic losses for the bigger teams than college leagues, there are different approaches that are needed. The amenities in the facility is what matters most, you want to attract your customers by having the amenities they want at their fingertips. For example, I live in NYC and in my downtown area of Brooklyn rap icon JAY Z has partnered up with Brooklyn to build a stadium in the middle of downtown area where all the shopping malls, food, and businesses are located in Brooklyn. Many residents are complaining about the traffic that will be increased in their area, while others are excited that new jobs will be generated.
            Currently, the stadium is still in construction and is expected to open in mid 2012. In the Bronx area of NYC currently there is Yankee stadium where all the major baseball games occur. Yankee stadium has been in the Bronx for a very long time and is considered a historic site. The main key to success as a facility manager at the new stadium in Brooklyn would be to make sure the amenities are much better than Yankee stadium. As a facility manager I would make tickets reasonable and affordable for the fans, but I will apply a kids section for playtime, restaurants, better seating, a wider range of parking, High definition technology and more. The attraction of the facility will definitely generate revenue. The best key would be the best customer service and different amenities for all different groups of people.
RESOURCES:
Posted By: Sparkle Callahan 

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Tiger Woods sex scandal & his financial losses in 2009

I think Tiger Woods story of committing adultery on his wife was the biggest sports business story of the decade. It was a shock to millions of supporters, fans, family and media across the world when allegations of mega sport star Tiger Woods was cheating on his wife with multiple sex affairs. Due, to this high profile scandal Tiger Woods lost much respect from his fans, media and lost his wife, but on a financial scale he lost 22 million dollars worth of endorsement funds in year 2009. As one of the highest earning American athletes according to sports illustrated annual "Ranking 50" in 2009 Tiger Woods was making $92 million dollars in endorsements and in 2010 he was making $70 million. That is a 22 million dollar declination of endorsements in Tiger Woods financial lifestyle.

Some of the endorsements that backed out on Tiger Woods was AT&T, Accenture, Tag Heuer, Gillette, Gatorade, Electronic Arts, and Upper Deck. However, NIKE remained faithful as a sponsor of Tiger Woods as they saw his downfalls as something that will soon pass and Tiger will be back at sports greater than ever. Nike has been sponsoring Tiger Woods since 1996 and pays him 30 million dollars a year. Tiger Woods loosing endorsements also had an effect on his management company IMG. Tiger Woods lost of his endorsements cost his management 4.6 million dollars in fees. His sex scandal also cost him the following:

$180 million in personal earnings
$110 million in advertising income
$23 million in tournament prize winning
$30 million in fees of 3 golf courses
$17 million in appearances fees
$591 million in industry losses
$96 million of the woods brand EA sports Golf video games
$40 million in lost PGA tour ticket sales

As a multimillionaire this sex scandal in 2009 cost Tiger Woods alot of financial damage and lost of fans and a divorce from his wife. I believe this was the biggest business sport story in the decade because of the amount of Tiger Woods losses and although I'm not a huge Golf fan I knew all about the allegations set on Tiger because of the media. This case against Tiger was very high profile and it was scene and heard daily in 2009 when it first hit the tabloids.







Posted By Sparkle Callahan

Resource Links:

http://www.businessinsider.com/tiger-woods-lost-22-million-in-2010-endorsements-2010-7

http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/2010-06-20-endorsements-tiger_N.htm

CNBC Video Link:
http://video.cnbc.com/gallery/?video=1368367744

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Interview with Celebrity Publicist/Manager Soulgee McQueen


Interviewer: Sparkle Callahan

Guest: Soulgee Mcqueen Celebrity Publicist/manager
Company: Mc Queen media Entertainment


Sparkle: Thank you for allowing me to interview you about the topic “Negotiation” within the entertainment industry.

Soulgee: Your welcome!

Sparkle: When negotiating a deal for your clients how do you separate the people from the problem? In other words how do you contain your emotions when it seems you may not be getting all you may expect for your client?

Soulgee:  My first approach when negotiating during meetings with different industry professionals is breaking the ice with them. Breaking the ice with them causes everyone to get comfortable. I may start out with talking about something we all have in common besides the project at hand. My emotions will never be involved because my main focus is atleast to walk away with something more than what I came in with. Emotions affect many negotiating deals because of unrealistic expectations that are set. Go into these meetings with an open mind to get an understanding and hear different point of views.

Sparkle: In every meeting do you obtain mutual benefits when negotiating for your client?

Soulgee: Honestly speaking some projects require more than one meeting, but the best thing about that is, when you have 2 or 3 meetings about the same client project you can almost guarantee there is some interest from the other party. The mutual benefit in this case for me would be I had more than one meeting, and now I have new ideas to pitch. Most times with new talent I see a situation such as this as a mutual benefit. In this circumstance it is considered mutual benefits because we both have a shared interest in regard to the same new client.

Sparkle: When representing new talent does their status of being a new artist have an affect on your negotiation approach?

Soulgee: I’m very well known in the industry for breaking and representing new talent. When negotiating new talent to music labels I have to present all their accomplishments thus far. I have to sell them to the labels and be confident of the great success they can produce. But, because I been in the entertainment business for quite sometime now most labels show interest because of my experience. New talent is most times the best talent to break because of their new status. In my experiences I found breaking new artist much easier than mainstream artist.

Sparkle: Thank you again for taking the time to sit and converse with me.

Soulgee: Your very welcome!


Posted By: Sparkle Callahan



Sunday, June 19, 2011

Top Music Executive L.A Reid moves to Epic Records





Whats new? On June 16, 2011 word spread out that Long time music Executive L.A Reid new label home is now Epic records starting July 2011. A few months back L.A Reid left his long time home Def Jam records to be a judge on a music singer competition reality show tiltled "X FACTOR." L.A Reid will be reunited with acts he discovered and developed such as pop R&B star Usher and PINK. L.A Reid title at Epic will be chairman, he will be replacing songwriter Amanda Ghost whom controversial topics almost destroyed the company. Epic has already signed a new group called "Duo Karmin" who gained instant notoriety from there youtube cover of Chris Brown. L.A Reid has a great passion for Pop music and is currently looking for the next Rihanna, Kanye West or Lady Gaga. These artists are the kind of artist that are stars and are mutually assets to record labels. There is talk that L.A Reid will also gear Epic records towards more Urban releases as well. Which may not be a great look, although Epic has many Pop acts. Many acts will also be joint venturing with Epic records from labels such as Sony, Jive records and RCA. Acts like "OutKast" and Britney Spears will more than likely be apart of this new joint venture. Many say L.A Reid is bringing back the times when he first made a name for himself.230 L.A Reid on the T.V show X FACTOR is also giving out record deal contracts to the winner and 5 million dollars in cash. The winner will receive a recording contract with Epic records if they win. Some say it is very beneficial to the acts because they have an expert week after week telling them musical advice.288 There is also an open door for Hip Hop talent with likes of Jay Z, Lil Wayne and Drake. L.A Reid is taking nothing but superstars.





Posted By Sparkle Callahan
Entertainmentweekly.com
Billboard.com

Thursday, June 9, 2011

New Reality Show "Ice LOVES Coco" premiers June 12th on E Television

New reality show "Ice LOVES Coco" premieres on sunday June 12th on E! Television network. The show will be about Ice T and his lovely wife Coco ultimate love and passion as a couple. Co-starring will be their new addition to the family, Old english bull dog and family pet, Spartacus. I have been seeing so many different video trailers promoting the show and it actually looks very interesting and funny. The show is compared to the old show "I Love Lucy." The show depicts their love life but also the humorous co-stars, which are also apart of their lives. I hear that Coco have a very fierce and sassy LGBT assistant who adores her and knows exactly what Coco loves. Also she has another assistant, which is very laid back, serious and make sure everything is top notch for Coco. Some of the characters of the show also include Coco's mom, sister, best friend, nieces and nephews.

Another part of the show is the renewing of the couple vows. Although they have been married for 10 years their love is like the 1st day they met. Ice T and Coco prepares for the renewing of their vows and the occasion takes place in Los Angeles at the "W" hotel. Some of the celebrity guests include Pimp magic Don Juan, comedian Katt Williams, rapper Snoop Dogg, old school artist Flavor Flav, and Ice T Hip Hop artist "KnightPKF." The renewal of the vows ceremony was catered with red velvet cupcakes, mini cheeseburgers, french fries, and macaroni and cheese. There also was a red carpet in which photographers captured the above photo of them walking to the hall where the ceremony would be held. There is so much more to the show as I hear and see the promotion taking place on the internet and the E network. As a publicist I'm so excited to see more of the show on sunday June 12th at 10:30pm on E! television.


Posted by Sparkle Callahan

http://www.aoltv.com/2011/05/04/ice-loves-coco-video/
http://www.eonline.com/on/shows/ice_loves_coco/index.html