And in today's "No, really?" department, AdAge reports that youngsters are now telling time on their phones instead of their wrists - which could spell doom for watch makers.

You don't say?

As we were watching history being made last night, we couldn't help but notice the two very similar campaign slogans that graced the screen.

During his victory speech, Senator Barack Obama's supporters waved banners sporting the message his entire campaign is based on – "Change we can believe in." Obama has positioned himself over the last year-and-a-half as the change candidate, and most likely, this message played a critical role in helping him secure the nomination.

Then the broadcast moved on to cover John McCain's speech. And we see the senator with the words "A leader we can believe in" prominently placed on the green backdrop behind him. To emphasize his experience, McCain used the same slogan – only slightly modified.

Regardless of which side of the aisle you fall on, we think this poses an interesting question. Is McCain's new slogan a shrewd marketing move or an example of an utter lack of creativity? What do you think?

There's been lots of talk lately about the quality of recent community branding and/or tourist marketing. Generally, people are criticizing the inauthentic messages and unoriginal creativity.

Enter the Five Day Weekend, a really clever campaign promoting Asheville, NC.

Rather than telling you Asheville is a great place for a vacation, this effort urges you to join the movement to support a Five Day Weekend. And what better place to spend that vacation than the home of working less and living more – Asheville, NC?

Well done.

Don't ask us why we were watching the Golf Channel the other day. Maybe it was fate, because lo and behold we found the perfect metaphor for describing how to make a lasting impact in marketing. And his name is Ian Poulter.

You see, the dude's never won a PGA event in his 13 years as a pro. And he's not especially great looking. But you know what? He's making a name for himself anyway, letting his garish fashion sense and flair for the dramatic demand the attention his golf game doesn't.

We – as in agencies and clients – can all learn something by following his lead.

[More]

Most advertising surrounding developmentally-challenged individuals tries to evoke sympathy by focusing on their disabilities. But what would you get if you did the opposite – and celebrated their abilities?

A campaign that leaves a lasting impression with current supporters and attracts potential new donors. At least that's what Foothills Gateway experienced with the unique message of "I have a ____ ability" and out-of-the-ordinary imagery.

The attention-getting theme highlighted Foothills Gateway's mission of empowering citizens with cognitive disabilities and their families, while encouraging potential donors to have a "give-ability."

Notice how just about every company is going sustainable these days? Perhaps, though, some of them should be focusing on another shade of green: tarnish. As in their already tarnished brands. Can a new eco-friendly image overcome years of eco-neglect? Many leading energy and automotive companies are anxious to find out.

[More]