New Orleans: PROUD to Call it Home.

Why are you proud to call New Orleans home? Isn’t that easy of a question is it?

Many wouldn’t have a problem pinpointing a reason, yet, the answer will not typically display that particular cherished since of worth and pleasure. - “I grew up here.” “This is where my job placed me.” “My significant other’s job landed us here.” “This is where my significant other grew up.” Etcetera, etcetera.

I was given the joy of volunteering at the Young Leadership Counsel’s Proud to Call it Home relaunch party at Harrah’s Casino. The crowd was a well diversified group containing people from all walks of the city; members came, friends came, and anyone passing by the theater in the casino came in to show their pride. The individual motive for being there did not matter, as it was one commonality everyone cared to celebrate: They were proud to live, work, and play in this city; they were proud to call New Orleans home!

Each New Orleanian, walked up to the welcome desks, put their name on a name tag (usual drill), but also added to the tag the reason they were proud to call New Orleans home. I’d say close to 90% of the people looked at me and said “I don’t know why I love it; I just do!” One gentleman briefly shared his story with me: He has lived in 10 states, spent 2 years convincing his wife to move from Boulder, Co to New Orleans, finally moved here after Katrina, and will only move away if he relocates out of the United States. However, the most common response? The food and the people. The food is a given; it’s got the soul to feed your soul. The people on the other hand ARE the soul of the city. The true spirit of New Orleans is embodied within the people; it’s the unmistakable, pure pride displayed in all of our faces when answering the question, “Where do you call home?”.

Once everyone moved passed the welcome desk , picked up their Proud to Call it Home bumper sticker, and liked the fan page on Facebook, they entered the front doors of the theater where they were asked to be brave and record a video clip of why they were proud to call New Orleans home. Those who were such great sports were given Proud Passports. Next stop? The bar. Drinks and food were complimentary, and everyone enjoyed the hurricanes, lemon drops, beer, wine, and soda while they celebrated the night. Past the bar and into the the main theater, the staples of what we do in New Orleans was displayed to the fullest. Eating, dancing, capturing memories, and enjoying one anthers company is a N'awlin's good time. Sam’s Funky Nation had people cutting loose on the dance floor all night, ending the party with everyone dancing on stage to the last song. Dear New Orleans was snapped away the messages everyone had to and about their beloved city. Rob, the photographer behind the magic, captures what is so raw, real, and the true spirit found in all of us.

So, why am I proud to call New Orleans home? In New Orleans you get the hustle and bustle of a big city mixed in with the small town, southern charm. You smile and say “Hi!” to the stranger walking past you on the side walk, open the door for the one walking into a place behind, and the warmth we have in our hearts for one other causes judgments are left behind. In New Orleans you are who you are, and we take one another in “as-is” condition. Opportunities are immeasurable here, no matter your interests and passions in life. All in all? I love New Orleans, just because. I’ve realized that giving a specific reason for it is like giving a specific reason for love your wife/husband or kids. An explanation can’t be tagged to that type of love, nor can it be measured.

I'll ask again; why are you proud to call New Orleans home? Fan their Facebook page and tell us all! This isn't the only amazing campaign the Young Leadership Council has created. Check out the website and you can get a glimpse of each incredible incredible projects available to get evolved with.

FORE!...a good cause (PART 1)

If you're following this blog, you may wonder why it may have seemed as though we have dropped off the face of the earth the past month or so. Three words: Unitedhealthcare Children's Foundation.

The foundation supports an admirable cause: aiding children whose conditions are not covered by their healthcare plans. Healthcare being the hot topic in the past year, we saw an immense amount of support towards the Foundation as we crafted a fundraiser event. Keating Magee helped The Unitedhealthcare Children's Foundation put on golf tournament fundraiser in both Mississippi and Louisiana.

The responsibility of soliciting donations for the auction fell in my lap. That being said, I have quite literally been eating, breathing and sleeping for this fundraiser event.

My competitive nature caused for a blur to set in over the line of my work hours. This being my senior year, I have learned the ways of effective scheduling and my first class of the day starts at 11 AM. However, during this period of my life--which I like to refer to as my "Donation Addiction"--I was not able to enjoy this privilege of sleeping in. 8:05 AM would hit and suddenly the alarming Irish Fight song ringtone would flood the room and my phone would nearly vibrate off the night stand. I look at my phone and do not recognize the number: it's a potential donor--I'm sure of it. I have 5 seconds to emerge from my drowsy state, answer the phone and be ready to pitch our request.

TIPS FOR MAKING SUCCESSFUL COLD CALLS
-New Orleans businesses truly value supporting local causes and local businesses. I by no means have a New Jersey accent (and thank the forces every day this is so), but it was interesting to see how much warmer the business contacts were once I used the term "ya'll" in our conversations. This gave off the impression that they were dealing with a local and helped me to successfully land certain donation items, such as the generous donation of a $100 gift certificate to any of the Emeril's restaurants.

-Don't be a robot--reciting lines as you go down your cold call list is subtle but apparent to the person on the other line. Immediately they tune out your message and lock into their stance being a firm "No". You want to be familiar with the facts of your request, and still maintain a high level of professionalism while making the call--but make sure you go into each call with a personal touch. Make them feel like it is their business and only their business that you need this donation from. I had a high success rate on the last days of my deadline to collect, and I can attribute this to the sincere hint of desperation that went into my calls.

1,000+ Facebook Fans in 3 hours

There are two lessons to be learned in this: give the people what they want...and don't underestimate the effectiveness of direct email blasts.

The Windsor Court Hotel recently announced the winner of their "Have a Ball" Sweepstakes, Amy Corley-Bergeron, who was awarded with Saints tickets, a stay at the Windsor Court Hotel, as well as pre-game brunch.

I ask you though, who was the real winner in this contest?

As an avid Saints fan myself envious of Amy's great fortune, I must hold back on stating the obvious- the winner being Amy. But from a marketing standpoint, the Windsor Court brings home the trophy.

The fans of the Windsor Court hotel Facebook Page were submitted into a drawing for Saints tickets, hotel stay and pre-grame lunch. The hotel eventually gave Keating Magee the green light to use the list previously drafted and send out an email blast regarding the contest. The results were astounding. Within minutes the Windsor Court's Facebook Fan count rose exponentially. 3 hours passed and 1,000 new fans were garnered. The contest proved to be a major success.

We live in a digital age. With more people owning smart phones, which are at arms length away at all times, emails are almost instantaneously read. Unfortunately, an email blast can easily slip into the same category as spam. We can counter this by getting their attention and offering an enticing prize. After the Saints' Super Bowl win, its almost as if this entire city's blood runs black and gold. An offer to win tickets, as well as fine dining at the Windsor Court, stirs excitement and buzz for the hotel. I applaud the joint efforts of Keating Magee and the Windsor Court and await the next contest where I may be so lucky!
Geaux Saints!

How visual stimulation will lead your company to success

I am guilty of incessant doodling. I considered this to simply be a bad habit of mine; that my furious scribbling was nothing more than a catalyst for my slight case of ADD. However, a couple of weeks ago, this perception changed. According to expert on visual cartography, David Sibbet, being graphically stimulated is actually extremely beneficial for the brain.

On Wednesday October 20, I joined my colleague Ronald and we arrived at Vega Tapas Cafe in Old Metairie for a luncheon hosted by the New Orleans Ad Club. The speaker, David Sibbet, is the President and Founder of The Grove Consultants International—organizational consultant and information designer, building on years of experience in leadership development, strategic visioning, organization change, and futures study—author of leading-edge group process tools and models for facilitation, team leadership, and organizational transformation. He spoke of the importance of visual stimulation in meetings and presentations.

When speaking of visual aids in presentations, the most common thing to do is think of Microsoft PowerPoint. Sibbet talked about how PowerPoints are actually dumbing down decision making, and the alternate routes prove to be more sucessful and not to mention original and eye catching.

Prezi is one of the alternative visual aid presentation software that Sibbet spoke of. It goes "beyond the slide" (of PowerPoint) and it engages the audience with a fresh approach to presentation and discussion. If you are not familiar with the software Prezi, you should check out their website: http://prezi.com/hgjm18z36h75/why-should-you-move-beyond-slides/.

Another resource Sibbet talked about were these large graphic chart presentations. The best way to describe this is by picturing huge -- beautifully -- hand drawn posters that were engaging the meeting and allowing for the participation of the audience. Sibbet would have these posters prepared, but the audience could participate by drawing on them or putting post it notes or in any way they felt comfortable sharing. Sibbet made the point that "people love to be listened to" and by making a meeting interactive, the presentor ensures their attention. Sibbet used the presentation he prepared for the President of Nike as and example of how effective this method is.

Sibbet was very enthusiastic about his approach on the "visual revolution." I must say that after his presentation, I have to agree with him. We are currently oversaturated with information and technology and advertisement and social media. Because of this, I feel like we are continuously setting higher standards as to what is going to grab our attention, but most importantly, keep it. It is incredibly difficult to stay focused on a new product, simply because there is so much of it, we don't want to give our time and energy to a waste of time. I think what Sibbet is proposing, this incentive to have visually stimulating and interactive meeting and presentations, is great. Though it would be incredibly time consuming to prepare these poster presentations, I think that brainstorming new presentation concepts -- such as experimenting with Prezi -- are small ways to start shifting into the creative era we are in, where our client expects more of us than a couple of colorful slides.

On my TV this Fall...

Last Tuesday the 21st, I was fortunate enough to receive an invitation to enjoy lunch at Five Happiness in the Imperial Room with a few stars of Keating Magee: Maggie, Ann, and Ronald. The restaurant's Chinese cuisine happens to be exceptional, particularly the shrimp dish with a sweet, honey-like sauce and candied pecans. However, I wasn’t there for a food tasting; the Ad Club of New Orleans held their September meeting. For each of the monthly meetings there is a featured speaker(s) and a non-profit society, and with cooler weather and more inside-time this meeting was one I am glad to have been able to attend.

Representing the Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, the meeting was kicked off by Melanie Cross of Tulane, whom then presented Dr. Augusto Ochoa of LSU to most passionately speak on the true Fall lineup: the upcoming Key to the Cure benefit. Shopping at Canal Place never had more meaning. I had heard of this particular charity event prior to attending this lunch, but I had not realized just how meaningful it truly is. For those who are not familiar, Key to the Cure is a four-day weekend of shopping at Saks in Canal Place for a little more than the just fabulous fashion finds. Two percent of all of sales at Saks Fifth Avenue during those days will be donated to Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium. With a new season here and holidays approaching rather rapidly and unless you are a ramen-noodle-eating college student like I happen to be (until May!), I am sure Saks carries quite a few items you would like to own and/or gift. –For those generous shoppers: I would like a pair black cowgirl boots in size 7.5; thank you in advance! Back to reality; Key to the Cure will run from Thursday, October 21st through Sunday, October 24th. They also have a Kickoff Gala Wednesday, October 20th from 6:00p to 9:00p. Hint, hint– Date night with the significant other? Networking opportunities?
To learn even more: http://www.lcrc.info/news/updates/kttc2010.html

Highlighting Fall TV lineups for WDSU (NBC), WGNO (ABC), and Cox Media, each of the stations’ ad reps presented me with the perfect situation to watched, listened, and mapped out what to watch in the evening while studding. Multitasking happens to be a talent I have come to conquer.

First, WDSU (NBC) caught my attention with their 4:30am news airing- the only local news broadcasted before the birds are awake. I happen to be one of the crazy people up that earlier many days of the week. Chase, Mondays at 9:00p, are for the Jason Born movie-lovers, such as myself. Undercovers and Law and Order: Los Angeles, aka LOLA are my thriller, investigative crime shows marked on the calendar for Wednesdays at 7:00p and 9:00p. On WDSU before or after Friday pizza-dinners at 7:00p with the family? School Pride. Schools that have been vandalized, not cared for, etc. can affect the students who are supposed to be learning in that environment. This program shines a spotlight on those schools and takes action, all the while involving the students of that school in the process. Outlaw is a more comedic political/crime addition to network at 9:00p on Fridays that will be on whether I am being a grandma or getting ready for a night-out.

WGNO (ABC)’s presentation of course included Dancing With The Stars on Mondays at 7:00p and the results on Tuesdays at 8:00p. The rest consisted of a plethora of categories for new shows: family, comedy, drama, suspense, and so on. No Ordinary Family, Tuesdays at 7:00p is great for those who enjoyed The Incredibles. And who isn’t guilty of watching Friends reruns? Well, the writer of the epic sitcom has created another that is just as “reality-like” and comedic with Better With You, Wednesday at 8:00p. With the same feel as High School Reunion, My Generation, Thursdays at 7:00p, is a must-see for those Class of 2000 high school graduates. WGNO’s reality show that showcases the fortunate helping the less fortunate is Secret Millionaire, Fridays at 7:00p. With real millionaires going undercover, getting out into the communities far from the lavish nets which they are rooted in, and ending with the millionaire giving away $100,000 of their own wealth, this will be one to drawn a smile.

Cox Media’s offerings? The boys of Fall! – (insert Kenny Chesney song playing in your head) My main love would be HD Football. With the Saints on, why wouldn’t you take advantage of the opportunity of being able to see the sweat! Not to mention the quality has the ability to make Drew Brees look even more breathtaking. Of course Cox provided MUCH more than any person could ever dream of, so I recommend checking out the website:
http://ww2.cox.com/residential/neworleans/home.cox.

For the full Fall TV Lineup:
http://www.tvguide.com/special/fall-preview/fall-schedule.aspx

Introducing: Alexia

Even though you are most likely to encounter bizarre sights on the streets of New Orleans’ French Quarter, I don’t think the city was expecting a Paraguayan 21-year-old scuttling around at 9:00 am, trying to find parking among the NFL kick-off festivity preparations, making her way to her first day of work; that was me last week. Day One at Keating Magee-- and it couldn’t have been on a more excellent day.

Currently a Communications Senior at Loyola University, with a minor in Creative Writing, I transferred from the home land – Paraguay – my sophomore year and haven’t looked back since. Moving to New Orleans has included falling in love with Uptown’s canopies and street cars, and being utterly confused by the city’s bizarre fascination for beads, and even more so by the frenzy that is Mardi Gras. If I could sum up my transition from South American small town to North American Who Dat Nation, I would have to say it’s been quite the exhilarating ride.

Although I have had professional experiences in the past, working at a Marketing Agency in Paraguay, interning for the School of Mass Communication at Loyola, and completing my summer internship at the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce, now I am starting at Keating Magee and I am excited to start from scratch in my new office overlooking the river. I look forward to joining this team and proving myself as a worthy asset.

Introducing: Lauren

Hey ya'll! My name is Lauren Van de Voorde, and I am a new addition to Keating Magee's internship program for the Fall 2010 semester. I am a Senior Marketing major at UNO, transferring from UL in Lafayette. Obviously by the "ya'll" I am originally from the area; Slidell to be exact. "Excited" is an understatement when describing how I feel about being back in the area. The French Quarter, Uptown, the restaurants, the (SuperBowl Champs) Saints, along with many other staples of the city, make it truly like no other. One reason for my transfer during the last year of undergrad was knowing that New Orleans had a plethora of options for a young, eager soon-to-be-grad, such as my self. Ladies like options (and, well, men too), and there is definitely no other place that offers such a variety in a city with such amazing culture.

With graduation coming up in May, I had to buckle down this summer and really take a look at companies that would be on my radar as I set out on my first "big-girl" job hunt in the spring. Focusing in on those that offered internships and were top in their industry, Keating Magee stood out. Isn’t there a saying that goes “if you want to be the best, you have to learn from the best”? I think so, or something along those lines.

The short 40 minute drive I made for my first interview with D.A. Magee himself was undoubtedly one of the finest decisions I have ever made. D.A. acknowledged my "persistence" to obtain an internship and was the first to say to me "you've got potential kid". The second interview is when I got to learn a little more about what a Media Intern does. Yes, I will file papers and tie ribbon(I did that the first day), but those tasks are what interns are for. I will also, however, get a chance to sit in on meetings with networks, oversee the process of buying slots for commercials and print ads, actually interact with clients, and even have a project to do with my fellow interns. Of course, I will be granted to opportunity to do much more along the way. Not many college interns can say the have an opportunity to learn an extraordinary amount and having amazing fun along the way!

Working at the top floor of Jax Brewery, in the heart of the French Quarter, and at such a prominent company (google Keating Magee, you will see) is not a bad way to spend three afternoons a week. Plans for the future are simple for me at Keating Magee: learn as much as possible, make the most of every opportunity I am given, and enjoy this amazing chance I am so thankful to have been given.

Now Hiring...

With my final year at Tulane University on the horizon, it is no secret that I have made use of the ever popular Craigslist. However, I am no longer looking for a used sofa...but full time employment. A rather daunting task-- it's important to know where to look. Uloop provides a much more professional platform for college students to connect with employers. Companies post job listings both nationwide and at specific universities. Its simple navigation is not as cluttered and, frankly, has a more professional vibe than when one shrugs their shoulders while stating "I got it off Craigslist." I am currently registered and continually check Uloop, more so now with the purpose of boosting my hopes that the economy is turning around and quality companies are in fact hiring!

Last Night in Town

Today is my last day as an Intern at Keating Magee and second to last day in New Orleans. I have to say that I am genuinely sad to be leaving both KM and the city. It's going to be hard to leave New Orleans and everything I love about it. I would guess that for most people, they're lucky not to trip on their own shoelaces as they sprint out the door in haste on the last day of their jobs.

In an attempt not to be too sappy, I can say that my work experience here has been phenomenal. I couldn't have asked for more in an internship. I have managed to get hands-on experience in so many aspects of marketing, and also contribute my own unique skills (like wrapping this ADORABLE sea turtle) in a meaningful way. Keating Magee really is a team and I feel like I got to be a real, valuable part of it, which is more than what most people I know can say about their experience.

My personal experience in New Orleans has also been amazing. This city is incredible, and even after four full years I still feel like there is so much to see. I'm sure that I will visit every chance I get. As far as my last day in NOLA goes, I have some plans, but inevitably they will be foiled because of all the packing I am going to have to do. BUT - come hell or high water I will have an oyster poboy tomorrow, oil spill or no oil spill, because as I have found out from experience, there is really nothing like a fried oyster.

Commander's

The one word speaks for itself, doesn't it? Fellow intern Erin and I decided to binge on one of my last Friday's in town and do Friday Lunch in true New Orleans style - at Commander's Palace. I had my doubts about Commander's because it's so well known and so often a tourist or visitor's location. But I figured since I was leaving town I had to go at least once.

First of all, whoever invented 25 cent martinis is a genius. The Commander's Signature martini - (see right) - boasts Commander's famous blue awning color in the glass, and later the inside of your mouth. After a round of drinks, Erin and I went on to ordering some fabulously delicious meals. I got mussels and fries, and Erin got crab cakes. Obviously the food was amazing. fantastic. delicious. you get the idea. But I think what really shines about Commander's is the fact that the experience was overall one of the best things I've done in New Orleans. We got free drinks, a little sample at the beginning, fantastic service and the whole meal was full of laughs and was such a great time.

The meal was topped off with a bread pudding souffle that was out-of-this-world good. It was light as air but had all the goodness that bread pudding always has. Would I recommend it? Emphatically. Even for locals. There's just nothing like it.

Love Everything New Orleans...? There's an App for That!

I have discovered the greatest Iphone App on the market as of yet (aside from Angry Birds of course) and it is called the French Quarter Finder! It serves as a mobile guide to French Quarter restaurants, events, activities, bars, live music, tours, shopping and more. No longer will I sit at home, clueless as to what kind of restaurant will fit the mood of the evening; French Quarter Finder has a tab called "Hot Spots" that categorizes key venues... such as restaurants grouped by casual dining, casual fine dining, fine dining, late night food, etc. It also has a built-in GPS system which categorizes options based on those closest to your location. It's free, it's simple, with an extensive list of places and events you'll be eager to try out. As you can see on the Iphone screen shot, there are fun events I didn't even know were going on...and right outside our office for that matter! This city has so much going on at all times, it's a crime not to take advantage of a useful tool such as this.

Satchmo Summerfest Press Conference

This morning I got to tag along with Ann Wills to a Press Conference for the 10th annual Satchmo Summerfest. Ann is on the Board for the festival, so she was asked to say a few words. I thought the event would be stuffy, when in actuality it was very lively; that's New Orleans for you. There was a live jazz band that played Louis' classics and one colorful reporter carried a small chihuahua in her purse...which had gone by unbeknownst to me until the furry creature popped his head up inbetween the purse straps. I also noticed a few anti-BP shirts in the crowd. My morning was complete once they brought out the cake. Cake for breakfast...I may need to hit the gym this afternoon.

The Perks of Being an Intern

This past weekend I got to experience some of the better moments of intern life, getting an inside view at some fabulous events that I otherwise would have never had a chance to attend - Butterfly Tea at Le Salon and the Jade Absinthe Launch (part of Tales of the Cocktail). I did countless mini-projects for both of these events, so getting to attend them was extra gratifying. I got to see my work come to fruition and got to see yet another slice of New Orleans lifestyle I hadn't seen before.











Butterfly Tea
While I'm not exactly in the target demographic for Butterfly Tea, I find it hard to believe that anyone wouldn't like this event. The Audubon Nature Institute partnered with The Windsor Court to create three afternoon Tea seatings, featuring butterflies from the Audubon Insectarium. The tables, the butterfly set-ups, even the sandwiches were so elegant - the amateur photographer in me had to take advantage (as you can see). The event went well overall, but it made for a busy day and I went home a little more tired than usual.

Jade Absinthe Launch
In my four years here, I have never managed to attend a Tales of the Cocktail event. My August birthday meant that this would be my first and last opportunity to see this much anticipated festival - but my empty wallet also reminded me that it probably wasn't going to happen. Luckily, the Windsor Court, one of KM's clients, hosted an event and I was sent to help out and take some pictures. The event was definitely worth the wait. Ted Breaux (left), creator of Jade Absinthe, put on a great show and I really enjoyed meeting him and learning about the product. Absinthe has seen a comeback in the US, and this high-end line is crafted by Breaux himself. The absinthe cocktail samples were delicious and the crowd was VERY interesting. While acting as impromptu "bouncer" I met several interesting people like the President of the Absinthe History Museum, the owner of Pirate's Alley, a few media personnel and some other notables.
All-in-all I would say it was a great weekend to be an intern in NOLA.

A Few Tips on Getting the Most Out of Your Internship...

So you've landed your first internship. You are probably feeling a variety of emotions - You're excited, a little nervous, and perhaps feel completely unprepared. But do not worry, because I have left you with a few things I have learned to ensure that you have the best internship experience.

1. Do your best work on all projects, no matter how big or small they are: Everybody has to start somewhere, and if you are starting out with your hand permanently attached to a file cabinet, that's okay! It's important to learn that even the most menial tasks can lead to big results. As you get more comfortable doing the simple things, it's very likely that your employer will become more comfortable giving you more important projects.

2. Always ask what else you can do to help: Once you're finished with a task, ask what else you can do to help. You should be looking for things to do, that way you can take full advantage of the learning opportunities you have been given.

3. Don't have a panic attack if you make a mistake: It will happen eventually. There is no need to get upset because you are expected to make a few mistakes down the road, and it's these mistakes that will help you learn. So when it does happen, take a few breaths, and learn how to fix your mistake.

4. Ask questions: If you don't understand something, ask for some clarification. You're new at this and although you may think you know all there is to know, chances are - you don't. So don't be afraid to admit you don't understand something or may need more explanation.

5. Get to know your coworkers: Getting to know your coworkers makes the workday a lot more enjoyable. After all, if they are working in the same industry as you, chances are you may have similar interests. Also, forming good relationships in the office can lead to future business contacts down the road.

Hopefully these tips will help all those internship-seekers out there to have a better understanding of what to expect and how to react in different situations. It's been a great summer for me at Keating Magee - I've learned a lot and am leaving with a better understanding of the business I hope to one day be a part of.

Becoming Tech-Savvy

I spend an awful lot of time on my computer these days (both at home and in the office). However, there are some things I enjoy doing more than others. For example, I would rather play around on facebook than enter data in an excel spreadsheet - but who wouldn't?

In the past few days, I've learned how to do some pretty cool things on the computer here at work. Yesterday, I created email templates for various business needs. However, these weren't just your ordinary emails - they involved html code. It can be pretty tricky at first, but it didn't take too long for me to get the hang of it. Once I was done inputting all the different codes, I was suprised to see how professional and organized the email templates looked.

Erin and I have also been working on creating flyers for The House of Blues upcoming July Jingle contest. This was very exciting for me because I love art and getting to express my creativity. I created one part of the flyer's design using microsoft publisher while Erin created the other part using Adobe photoshop. Check out our final product!

Add to Resume: Proficient in Tying Bows

In preparation for the U.S. Launch of Jade Absinthes at the Windsor Court, invitations needed to be made; and 200 bows needed tying. Raquel created the invitation and I had the joy of assembling the parts. The key to maintaining one's sanity with a task such as this, is to ensure you:
-Maintain an athletic and upright posture (slouching most certainly will result in back pains)
-An occasional knuckle crack/finger stretch is needed (to avoid getting carpal tunnel)
-Hydrate
-Keep mind occupied on another subject other than shiny red bows (I thought about my grocery list, an occasional song, and lapsed into some peaceful self reflection)

NOLA on the Cheap - Top 10 Ways to Spend $5 or Less this Summer

Being an intern doesn't usually leave you with a hefty wallet. Rounding out my fourth year in New Orleans, I've decided to make a list of the best ways to spend $5 or less around the city during the summer. The list includes some popular and some less-traveled locations, many of them offering special student discounts or offers, and unique ways to cool off. They are in no particular order because on any given day, any one of these activities could be a favorite.

1. Friday Night Concerts
I've never been let down by anything at either the House of Blues or Tipitina's, and the venues are even more enjoyable when it's free to get in. The House of Blues offers free music in the VooDoo Garden on Fridays all year round, featuring different artists and types of music. Tipitina's has their #FreeFridays summer concert series from the Tip's Foundation, that features some great local acts. As I mentioned in an earlier post, I saw the New Orleans Bingo Show a few weeks ago at one of these events. The price tags on both of these events will let you splurge on a drink (at around $5).

2. Ms. Mae's
On your way to Tip's, you might find yourself a little "thirsty." Located at Napoleon and Magazine, Ms. Mae's has shockingly low prices on everything ranging from mixed drinks to craft beer on tap. Mixed drinks cost only $1, and beers range from $2.50 - $5.

3. Sunday Matinee at the Prytania Theater
I live nearby the Prytania Theatre and I have definitely made a habit of seeing any movie I can there. The theater has been around since 1915, and the owner, Rene Brunet is often standing outside greeting the incoming patrons. Sunday Matinees have one particularly great item, the raffle. With each purchased ticket, patrons also receive a raffle ticket. Mr. Brunet makes a comedy routine out of picking the 10 winning tickets, giving away prizes that surely exceed the sales for the showing. The theater also gives student discounts for all movies times, at already lower prices than the major theaters. Sundays (Wednesdays and Saturdays too) at noon feature classic movies, so see the schedule to pick a date that's right for you.

4. Tour of the NOLA Brewery
I was lucky enough to have a Marketing project on the NOLA Brewery, and I got to meet the owner, Kirk Coco and VP Dylan Lintern. They were overwhelmingly nice and generous with samples. The brewery was founded after Hurricane Katrina, and they have been blazing their way through the beer scene in the city with 3 standard beers and now 2 seasonal beers. I purchased a glass for $5 as a takeaway, which I will presumably fill at home once their beers are bottled (check for it around December). The brewery offers tours on Fridays in the afternoon, but if you email someone at the brewery (or maybe even just stop by), depending on availability they can probably set up a visit.

5. NOMA
At the last stop on the Canal Streetcar, the gorgeous building of The New Orleans Museum of Art is virtually impossible to miss. Wednesdays at NOMA are free for everyone ($7 for students all other days), but students from local universities receive free admission every day. NOMA has some great permanent collections, and I've never been let down by a featured exhibition. Beginning July 24th, the museum will feature "Ancestors and Descendants:Ancient Southwestern America at the Dawn of the Twentieth Century."

6. Get a Snoball
If you have spent any time in New Orleans, you have definitely heard of the "Snoball." A distant relative of the universally awful "SnowCone," Snoballs are often the only cure for the extreme heat of New Orleans. Almost every neighborhood in New Orleans has a Snoball stand. I'm fortunate enough to have Hansen's Sno-Bliz around the corner from my house (try the special flavors), but some of my friends prefer Plum St. Snoballs, where the icy treats come in buckets.

7. Ride the Algiers Ferry
While this might sound like a strange idea, a friend of mine who lived in New Orleans his whole life suggested this to me last summer. The quick ride across the river always gives passengers a nice breeze and beautiful view of the city. The ride across the ferry is free, so you can save your money for a snack in Algiers at the Dry Dock Cafe.

8. Camellia Grill
The first time I saw Camellia Grill, it was still closed after the storm, and it was covered in graffiti and post-its begging for the restaurant to be reopened. Luckily it was and it has always been my favorite late night/early morning/weekend brunch or anytime place to go for cheap, delicious food. While not everything costs $5, you can get anything from two eggs to chili cheese fries, or their legendary "Freezes" at a fairly low cost.

9. Cafe Du Monde
If you find yourself in the quarter with empty pockets and a sweaty face, you might just find solace at Cafe Du Monde. This New Orleans icon is often busting at the seams with tourists, but catch it at an off time in the summer for a chance to cool off. Powdered Sugar coated Beignets speak for themselves, but try the iced version of the Cafe Au Lait for an anytime pick-me-up.

10. Southern Food and Beverage Museum
Pleasant air-conditioned places are hard to come by in the quarter, and so are interesting museums. At $5 for students, the Southern Food and Beverage Museum (SOFAB) provides an interesting background on food and culture in New Orleans and in the rest of the Southeast in a creative setting. The museum also features a separate Cocktail museum where the history of the cocktail is presented in a funny and eye-catching setup.

Being an intern means...

...doing an almost comical variety of things. I've taken a minute to reflect back on the week in order to write this post, and I'm pretty happy with the fruits of my labor. This week I've managed to clock some hours of travel time to Metairie, dabble in some graphic design, make invitations for the Windsor Court (complete with ribbon), create media lists and organize mailings. I've also managed to acquire a bottle of 2009 Superbowl Champs Saints Crystal Hot Sauce ("the Official Hot Sauce of the New Orleans Saints").

Though I spend a lot of time in the office, I have no doubt that being a Marketing Intern gives me a lot of variety in my day compared to some of the other internships I've heard about. Luckily, being busy means that I'm getting a lot of hands on experience and my days go by pretty quickly, instead of looking at the clock wondering when it will turn 5:00. Also, working at a firm means I get to interact with several different kinds of industries, like the music industry with the House of Blues, that I may not have gotten to interact with otherwise.

And In This Corner... Erin vs the Printers

Every now and then you will find yourself on a project that...let's just say lacks any particular flare or excitement. One of my tasks for the day was to print off a large amount of press clippings for one of KM's clients, Tobacco Free Living. Three months worth of news article clippings amounted to a few hundred pages for printing.

In my attempts to accomplish the task quickly, I made the fatal error in assuming the printer could handle such a load all at once. "File; Print" ... next document "File; Print"...and so forth. Once I had successfully sent off the print jobs, I walked over to the printer to collect.

Jammed. And on a day when Keating Magee was pitching to a potential client... even more fantastic. Hours later, the matter was finally resolved with the technician arriving just in time (not). He arrived as we had painfully predicted at 4:45. Luckily, Projects With Purpose (our next door neighbor) had allowed us to print the documents needed for the new business meeting... so my overconfidence didn't result in hampering the company's ability to pitch to a new client.

As my friend Joanna would say "Success is all about the hands you shake" Thank god for friends with functioning printers!

Go 4th on the River

Living in New Orleans is so exciting. There is always something new to do whether it’s a concert, a festival, or even a firework show. This July 4th marked the 20th anniversary of the GO 4th ON THE RIVER celebration. I’ve never been in New Orleans for the summer so decided I wanted to go to the best fireworks show in town and boy did I pick the right one. This fireworks display took place on the riverfront right by the JAX Brewery building where our office is located. They call it the “dueling barges fireworks extravaganza” and what this means is that both sides of the river shot off fireworks simultaneously and then met in the middle of the river for one giant combined fireworks show. I watched from the levee in Algiers Point (directly across the river from the office) where I had an amazing view of all of downtown and the French Quarter. The city skyline was absolutely beautiful from where we were. We could even see the St. Louis Cathedral! Here’s a picture I took from my phone that doesn’t do the skyline justice at all. Next time I’ll remember to bring my camera.

Working for the Weekend

Erin and I started off the weekend early by attending the PRSA New Orleans event at Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse on Thursday after work. The event featured Tobacco Free Living, the organization that is pushing for smoke-free laws in New Orleans and the state of Louisiana . The venue was really nice and Erin and I met a few other PR people from New Orleans. We also met one of the musicians. (Here's a picture of us at the event).

Another perk of being an intern is having coworkers who hear about different events or local hidden treasures. Luckily, Erin filled me in on this awesome free concert. On Friday, I went to Fat Harry's to see Kermit Ruffins and managed to get only 4 feet away. He was playing at a going away party for a local news anchor who's going to start working in New York at ABC. Kermit had a great set. I got a few blurry pictures on my phone and here's one of them to the left.

After Kermit, I managed to catch yet ANOTHER free concert at Tipitina's as part of their free Friday concert series in the summer. Last Friday featured the New Orleans Bingo Show. The band is not your typical New Orleans group and I definitely got to experience something out of the ordinary.

Why are you proud to call New Orleans home?

Mara and I left the office around lunch in search of young New Orleans professionals who were eager to tell us about the many reasons they love New Orleans.

These interviews are the foundation for an upcoming marketing campaign to promote the city. Remember the bumper stickers, " New Orleans - Proud to Call it Home?" The Young Leadership Council is the organization responsible for that great slogan, and they are in the process of starting a whole new campaign!

We asked people to finish this sentence: "I am proud to call New Orleans home because..." We ran into a few camera-shy people, but for the most part, people were excited to share their many reasons for loving this city. I posted one of the interviews so that everyone can get an idea of what people had to say! So, why are you proud to call New Orleans home?

Our First Event

Our first event of the summer was held at the House of Blues. The International House of Blues Foundation hosted Schoolhouse Rock, featuring The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Percussion Ensemble Concert. Raquel and I wrote up a press release prior to the event and we were also responsible for documenting footage for the concert: Raquel on the Flip, myself on the camera. The band played percussion renditions of Pink Floyd and Radiohead. Being more of a country fan, I didn't know the majority of the songs. I left the singing to Raquel who knew almost every one!

Introducing: Meredith

Hello! My name is Meredith and I am a recent addition to the Keating Magee Internship program. I was born and raised here in New Orleans, but will be returning to Athens, Georgia in the fall to start my junior year at The University of Georgia, where I am studying advertising and speech communication.

A little over a month ago, I took an elevator ride to the fifth floor of the JAX brewery building in the historic New Orleans French Quarter not knowing what was in store for me. This was my first internship, and after hearing stories from friends and families about their first job experiences, I can honestly say that I was a little bit nervous.

After my first few days here at Keating Magee, I was pleasantly suprised to find that I was quickly gaining the trust of my fellow employees. There will always be papers to file and a phone to answer, but there are not many places that let their interns lead their own marketing plan. Yes, we (interns) were given the opportunity to create our own marketing plan for the local House of Blues. It was not only a fun business to work with, but as a local New Orleanian, it was enjoyable to work with a company that I was familiar with.

Introducing: Raquel

I’m Raquel and I’m a recent graduate of the A.B. Freeman School of Business at Tulane University and a 2nd time intern at Keating Magee. I majored in Marketing and just finished my thesis on crisis management with a literature review on using social media to prevent “brand hijacking.” I grew up on Long Island, New York and I came to New Orleans in 2006, about one year after Hurricane Katrina.

Living in New Orleans was definitely a change from New York, but I have really enjoyed growing up while the city was re-growing. I have met so many wonderful people and experienced so many wonderful things. New Orleans is really a community in the sense that everyone knows everyone, yet there are always new things to try and new people to meet.

Interning here has really given me a much better understanding of what “real-world” marketing is really about. While getting my degree, I learned a great deal about marketing research and theory, but there is really no substitute for learning things hands-on. I’ve gotten some experience in traditional marketing while simultaneously finding out about the rising importance of social media.

I am constantly trying to go to a new festival, see a band I’ve never seen or go to a restaurant I haven’t tried, so I’m sure that some of that will creep into my posts on here. Hopefully, I can provide an educational and also entertaining picture of what my days are like here at KM.

Introducing: Mara

Hi.
My name is Mara. I am going to be a senior at Loyola University in the fall where I am working on my marketing degree. I’m from Houston but have been here in New Orleans for three years now and am proud to call this my home away from home.

I’m interning with Keating Magee this summer and couldn’t be more excited. Keating Magee is one of the top marketing agencies in the area yet it is still small enough that as an intern you still get to do actual work for clients (ie. not just make copies and fetch coffee).

Keating Magee is everything I was looking for in an internship and more and the fact that it is located in the French Quarter is a definite plus.

Introducing: Erin

Hey there!
My name is Erin. The start of the summer marked a full year of my interning with Keating Magee. Though my roots are in New Jersey, I have traded in my Jersey for a different kind of "New"...New Orleans. This year I will be a senior at Tulane University and in the following year I will be finishing my double major in Marketing and Legal Studies in Business.

I have friends interning for a variety of companies in all sorts of fields, yet I am the only one experiencing an internship in New Orleans; all I can say is that my experiences have been far more colorful and exciting. Even FILING in New Orleans has a different feel -- okay that's a stretch. Filing sucks anywhere you go.

But through Keating Magee, I have been able to gain all types of hands-on experience. Whether it's creating our own marketing plan for the House of Blues or running around the city conducting interviews, interning in New Orleans- especially in the French Quarter- is a one-of-a-kind experience.

I never realized how important Facebook, Twitter and blogs were as communication tools, but now I do. That's when I decided it would be valuable to share our experiences with the rest of the world. Give everyone a taste of what it's really like to be a marketing intern in this unique city.