Saturday, March 7, 2009

'What's Hot' Today's TMJ4 3 p.m. newscast

Hello-
Interestingly, all three of our topics on 'What's Hot' for Today's TMJ4 3 p.m. newscast on Thursday, March 5th involved technology.

Courtny Garrish, George Mallett, Jeff Wagner and I discussed:
1) New ad campaign tragets "sexting" teens
2) 20-year-old Eau Claire woman posts her ex-boyfriend's picture on Craig's List asking guys to call him and talk dirty
3) Catholic Church asks faithful to refrain from gadgets for Lent


1) New ad campaign tragets "sexting" teens
Coming soon to area bus stops...
ads asking teens to 'wrap it up' as in wrap up your cellphone and don't send sex messages or photos to anyone!
Seems that provocative messages are a precursor to sexual activity. United Way is hoping to address the problem via the new ad campaign.
Kudos! Any effort to make teens think twice about pre-marital sex and possibly make a dent in Milwaukee's teenage pregnancy rate is a great idea.

2) 20-year-old Eau Claire woman posts her ex-boyfriend's picture on Craig's List asking guys to call him and talk dirty
This goes in the 'old enough to know better' category. The ultimate revenge...high tech style! This not so bright woman in Eau Claire is now facing felony charges of identity theft for posing as her boyfriend and inviting men to call him at work to talk dirty! That's a low blow when revenge is served up with the possibility of losing one's job. Word to the wise--keep your personal revenge out of the public eye. Or better yet, just move on.

3) Catholic Church asks faithful to refrain from gadgets for Lent

At first glance, the church is mandating how the faithful should observe Lent. Advising people to go on a high-tech fast, including switching off modern appliances, incl. cars and iPods, abstaining from surfing the Internet and no text messaging seems a bit harsh. But then a light bulb went off in my head! I get it!
Most of us have to admit that technology designed to bring us closer, has in fact, pushed us farther apart in many instances. So how about if during Lent we simply reach out and schedule face to face gatherings with those we love? After all, I think that's really the intent of the church advice. Reach out and touch someone-literally, not via your cellphone.

See me next Thursday during the second half of the 3 o'clock newscast on Today's TMJ4.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Today's TMJ4 What's Hot Thurs. Feb. 26

In case you missed it, I appear weekly on Today's TMJ4 3 p.m. newscast in the 'What's Hot' segment. We discuss local and national hot topics ala 'The View.'

I was joined on Thursday, February 26th by anchors Courtny Gerrish, Shelley Walcott and WTMJ Radios' jeff Wagner.

Our topics:
1) Obamas pick their dog?
2) Park High School imposes dress code for secretaries and clerks

Obamas pick their dog
It's rumored that the White House dog of choice is a Portugese water dog.
Cute.
Rest assured. A couple of things will happen once the dog finally arrives, countless cute photos of cute girls frolicking on the White House lawn with their new dog. A rush to buy the water dog by everyone who ever thought they wanted a dog...and maybe they just couldn't make up their minds! Now, it's easy. Just follow the Obamas lead. Bring on the cute photos.

Park High School secretaries get a dress code
Me thinks that someone took leave of their common sense, thus prompting the school principal to lay down the law. Then the union steps in and cries foul. Well, the truth of the matter is secretaries are part of school administration and therefore, are authority figures. The last thing a high school student or city of Racine taxpayer is a visit to the school to take care of business and a too tight sweater, skin tight jeans and flip flops serve as a distraction. This reeks of disrespect for their school and position. Isn't that the No. 1 item we want to teach high school students-to respect authority?
I think the school principal got it right. Dress professionally--that's what the position calls for. Save your flip flops for the beach.

Watch me next week on Today's TMJ4-- in the 3 p.m. hour--usually airing around 3:35 or 3:40 p.m. on Thursday, March 5th.

Friday, February 13, 2009

'What's Hot' on Thursday, Feb. 12th Today's TMJ 3 p.m. Newscast

In case you missed it, here are the topics from the Thursday, Feb. 12th 'What's Hot' segment on Today's TMJ4's 3 p.m. newcast.

1) A group is threatening to sue various school districts holding high school graduation ceremonies at Elmbrook Church
2) A-Rod admits using performance enhancing drugs, putting MLB commissioner Bud Selig in a pickle

Our 'What's Hot' panel consisted of anchors John Mercure and Courtney Garrish, WTMJ radio hot Jeff Wagner and yours truly, Lora Hyler.

Separation of church and state is at the heart of the Washington, D.C. group's fuss. Americans United for Separation of Church and State has sent letters asking the school districts to find a new location. What are they so afraid of? Much ado about nothing.

It appears that attorneys for this organization have far too much time on their hands. Of course, it's always possible for the school districts to ignore the letter. One district told the media that the Elmbrook Church was chosen for convenience. The church will seat 3,000 rather than the 200 or 300 for most school gyms. Also, it's not like a church service is being pushed down the throats of those who thought they were showing up to see Johnny graduate! For all those aunts, uncles, moms, dads and grandparents who played a role in Johnny's success, shouldn't they at least be able to see him at the graduation ceremonies? Shame on you-Americans United for Separation of Church and State.

Speaking of shame on you...
A-Rod has foisted another PR nightmare on MLB commissioner Bud Selig.
Professional baseball player Alex Rodriguez has admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs from 2001-03. Though it was against the law to possess these drugs without a prescription, there wasn't a MLB penalty. Hence, Selig's dilemma.

Sure Selig's back is against the wall. Here's my suggestion: draft a proposal with stiff penalties for current players who test positive for performance-enhancing drugs, and get players union, team owner and FAN support. Restore some integrity to professional sports starting with baseball. Us parents of Little Leaguers will sleep better. Just yesterday, I had yet another 'teaching moment' talk with my 12-year-old, let's talk about the definition of a role model. One things for sure, it ain't A-Rod.

Visit Today's TMJ4 website to see yesterday's 'What's Hot' for more on these topics.
http://www.todaystmj4.com/features/seenontmj4

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Today's TMJ4 What's Hot February 9, 2009

I'm a weekly guest on Today's TMJ4 (Milwaukee NBC TV affiliate) on Thursdays during the 3 p.m. newscast. Ala 'The View' we discuss hot topics, some local, some of national interest.

Yesterday, February 9th was an exception to my regular Thursdays. I was asked to sub for Erin Austin of WKTI-FM. So our Monday lineup consisted of Today's TMJ4 anchors Charles Benson, Courtney Garrish and Jeff Wagner of WTMJ-AM.

Our topics:
1-Grandma of Octuplets speaks out
2-Pop singer Chris Brown charged with felony. Alleged victim: girlfriend and fellow pop singer Rihanna
3-Valentine's Day: In light of current economy, what to do?

A link to the actual live show is available here. Just click on the appropriate date.
http://www.todaystmj4.com/features/seenontmj4

More thoughts...
It's apparent that the grandmother of the octuplets is beginning to think about just what her family is facing. Adding eight more children to the brood already consisting of six children ages 2-7, and at least one with special needs is daunting to say the least.

It would be nice if the mom of the octuplets woke up one morning and came to her senses. Current reports circulating say she lied to Today Show anchor Ann Currie and is in fact already on the public dole. Taxpayers of California revolt! At the very least, the fertility doctor should have to foot part of the bill. Who would knowingly do yet another in vitro fertilization procedure on a single mom with no visible means of support? And what's up with the $168K that she supposedly received in disability payments over several years? Grandma says she never saw a dime of it and that none went to feed the six children. This all smacks of elder abuse. The poor grands are expected to support whatever children the daughter places in their path. Sad.


Pop singer Chris Brown not so squeaky clean

First, the New Berlin HS ex-student and his sex backmail shenanigans, next it's Michael Phelps and his love of the bong, now Chris Brown charged with a felony?

Which of their handlers thought it would be a great idea for 19-year-old Chris Brown and the alleged victim, 20-year-old Rihanna to rent a lamborghini and drive themselves back to their hotel after Clive Davis' pre-Grammy party? No doubt the paparazzi were out in force-so clearly, this was an accident waiting to happen. Sound a bit like the Princess Diana debacle? No, this gets worse! Chris Brown and Rihanna get into an argument that escalates into an episode outside the car that leads to a witness calling 911.

Chris Brown later turns himself in, gets charged with felony threats and the reported victim, Rihanna is said to have suffered facial and arm bruises. Both missed their scheduled performances at the Grammys leading to last minute replacements including the Rev. Al Green. Chris, we're all disappointed. Kids-from now on, forget the pop stars. Your role models: God, your parents (hopefully), and (insert your favorite teacher here).

Ok-Valentine's Day is nearly upon us.
Another year for couples to figure out what to buy to express their love for one another, and another day for the singles to declare their independence. Have you seen the ad where the woman sits on the sofa holding chocolates next to her cat dressed in a tux? Of course, her best friend didn't buy the chocolates.

A recent survey quizzed people about how the economy would affect their day of celebration. Many will have to stay home and get acquainted with each other. Darn. But of course those pesky questioners also asked about their sex habits. Did you know people put their sex dates in their planners? If that's you-try Jenda, www.buyjenda.com Ok, cheap commercial-that's a client.

Stay tuned for the exciting Thursday, February 12th 'What's Hot.'

Friday, February 6, 2009

My client wins Disney iParenting Media Award!

Jenda voice calendar and family message center received a national award this week.

Disney named Jenda a recipient of its iParenting Media Award for Best Products of 2009.
IParenting is recognized by retailers, consumers and media as an objective third party evaluator of children's and related products. Disney sent out a news release to 20,000 retailers, media outlets and consumers nationwide. Jenda voice calendar and family message center won in the Housewares category and received accolades from the judges.
If you haven't yet purchased a Jenda, you're missing out on the easiest family organizing tool ever.
www.buyjenda.com

The award will open retail doors for Jenda. Also look for my next QVC appearance with Jenda in the first quarter, 2009.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Yes, we can!

We welcomed a new president two days ago.
I've had a silly grin on my face since election day and inauguration day was just a day of pride. We have our first African-American president AND a new president for all Americans.

As a former journalist and now public relations professional, I have a cynical bent. But there's something about Barack Obama and his measured composure and willingness to reach across the aisle. No public relations honcho or author could have conjured up this individual. So I believe what we're embracing is sincerity. Barack Obama seems intent to do what's best for the country and that's refreshing.

The imagery of the First Family is compelling. Having worked in the news media all of my adult life, I know the power of images. It's nice to see the intact, nuclear A-A family on display with family love and strong principles apparent for the world to see.

Also, Obama's treatment of John McCain, George Bush and former Bush officers welcomed into the new cabinet sets a strong example for all of us.

The lesson in all of this seems to be: reach for your highest self. Even if you fall a bit short, you'll achieve what you may have never imagined.

Monday, January 12, 2009

Can you believe it's 2009 already?

Believe it or not, 2009 is upon us.

But before we can tackle a new year, reflection is due.

Following is the link to my recent article in Citigal magazine with a feature story on WISN TV12 anchor Toya Washington.

http://www.citigalmagazine.com/
See pages 10 and 11

Highlights of 2008:
Business was steady.

Client: Jenda, lifetime voice calendar-Hyler Communications took the product to QVC and appeared on air nationwide as spokesperson, now pursuing catalogs and retail stores. If anyone has any retail connections, do tell.
Client: Sendik's, managed store opening publicity
Client: Devo Properties, commercial development projects
Client: Red Brown Kle' agency, Wisconsin Dept. of Tourism projects
Client: We Energies, various communication projects
Client: Girl Scouts, various communications projects and publicity

Also, I appear weekly on the 'What's Hot' segment of Today's TMJ4 3 p.m. newscast and write regularly for Citigal magazine.

Wishing you a fruitful 2009.