Business Photo Session

It is so important that you have real photos of a business that you can use for various projects and social media posts.  Schedule a time when you can spend at least an hour, depending on the establishment, taking photos of every single thing.  You never know when you are going to need a picture of the most random item.  This shows your viewers/followers what you really have to offer.  

Follower Seeding Strategy

You'd think that starting a successful Instagram account would be easy, but it's actually a lot more involved that you'd think.  Actually setting up the account is the easy part, but an account with no followers is just that, an empty account.  

Here's a tactic that I use to gain followers.  Go to other local Instagram accounts and follow all of their followers.  Chances are those accounts are local too, and once you follow them, they will follow you back!

Simple & Effective Logo Changes

A company's logo is vital to their success.  It is what brands them and makes them recognizable.  But what about during the holidays or during large promotions?  Adding simple graphics or altering the logo in a small way can go a long way.  Tami's Salon logo looks great as it is, but adding a simple Santa hat makes all the difference during this holiday season.  This isn't always possible, but can really pay off if you do it right!

ABC Show "Scandal" Raising Concerns

Speaking of television, the hit TV show Scandal has been raising concerns since the new season started.  We first heard of concerns about the show from Twitter followers tweeting about how the intimate scenes in the show were "too much."  Shonda Rhimes, who created the show, promptly responded by basically saying that if you don't like it, don't watch it.  She also said that the content of the show is nothing new.  

You'd think that would be all that we'd hear about the show, but since the latest episode, The Parents Television Council has come out expressing concerns that the show was aired right after a Peanuts episode which is geared towards children.  Don't get me wrong, the intimate scenes in Scandal make me feel uncomfortable too, but how much input do we want to take from viewers who don't even watch the show?  

I understand that the placement of the shows and episodes as far as scheduling could have been done better and more carefully.  However, is this material anything new to the show Scandal?  No, not really.  There has been some variation, but overall the show is the same.  

My main concern that I feel should be ABC's concern as well is are they going to lose viewers as a result of the material in the show?  If I were them, I would be careful in the way I address these issues.  I would also make sure that they show is aired during a time where younger children are less likely to be exposed to it's material.  It would be unfortunate for the show to get cancelled as a result of a decline in viewers.  I don't think that will happen, but if ABC doesn't respond or do anything about these concerns, I can see a possibility of a decline in viewers and supporters.

This blog is for educational purposes only.

Sources:

http://abc.go.com/shows/scandal

https://tv.yahoo.com/news/abc-criticized-for-airing--scandal--sex-scene-after-charlie-brown-special-160231263.html

Honey Boo Boo "Cancelled"

It didn't take long for TLC to pull the plug on the hit TV show Honey Boo Boo after Mama June reportedly started dating McDaniel, a convicted sex offender.  Although Mama June has denied all accusations, TLC said in a statement Friday, "TLC has cancelled the series 'Here Comes Honey Boo Boo' and ended all activities around the series, effective immediately.  Supporting the health and welfare of these remarkable children is our only priority.  TLC is faithfully committed to the children's ongoing comfort and well-being."

This action taken by the TLC network is strong.  It shows viewers how they feel about anything to do with abuse of children, and the lack of involvement they want to have with those who treat children and women in negative ways.  They are taking a stance, and are proving that they will have nothing to do with such activity.

I feel that this is a smart move.  If TLC wants to continue having a good image, and be known for good quality and wholesome shows, this is exactly what they needed to do.  It is clear from reports that Mama June is lying about her involvement with McDaniel.  It is unfortunate because it seems like the show was good for her family.  Farewell Honey Boo Boo.




This blog is for educational purposes only.

Sources:
http://news.yahoo.com/comes-honey-boo-boo-canceled-155136919.html;_ylt=A0SO8z1O7U1UNekAOM5XNyoA

Honey Boo Boo's Mama June - Love troubles?

It's seems that Mama June has put herself in some hot water for kindling up a new love interest with a registered sex offender.  The man she is dating, who molested a child,  was recently released from prison in March, and is now involved with matriarch of the hit tv show.  If this was any other family, this wouldn't be as big of an issue, but since this family is on a television show, and is connected to a network, TLC has gotten involved and made the following statement.

A TLC network rep said in a statement that "TLC is not currently in production on Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.  We are very concerned about this new information and are reassessing the future of the series."

I'm wondering why June would even want to be involved with a man who has a history like that, especially since she has young children of her own.  Not only that, but her involvement with this man is putting the show's standing in question.  This isn't the first time that a television show has been up in the air due to the involvement of a questionable individual.  Duck Dynasty was the center of attention earlier this year when a member of the cast made statements contrary to the networks views.  This caused an uproar with viewers when the network announced they were cutting the cast member from the show.

Cast members of well known shows need to keep in mind that they are being watched closely, and that their actions can significantly impact their success.  If Mama June was smart, she would cut all ties with this man and show TLC that she is dedicated to the future of Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.  If not, she may face the reality of TLC opting out future episodes.  Only time will tell what will happen, but hopefully we haven't seen the last of Honey Boo Boo.




This blog is for educational purposes only.

Sources:

https://tv.yahoo.com/news/-here-comes-honey-boo-boo--future-in-question-with-possible-sex-offender-connection-151926208.html

Love Has a New Meaning

Love is on Jennifer Lawrence's mind these days according to the pin seen on her bag as she left LAX earlier this week.  To most, the pin would mean simple what love implies, but to those who know Chris Martin, it means a bit more than that.  The pin is from the Love Button Movement, which is an effort to get people around the world to love more and in many ways.  This decision to put a love pin on her bag isn't going to put Lawrence in any hot water, but this does show the kind of influence a celebrity can have on the public.  Now we know that Lawrence is currently dating Martin, whom supports the Love Button Movement, and it seems that Lawrence is jumping on the band wagon along with him.

We know from past experience and from this example that celebrities can't do much of anything without being noticed.  With the recent events concerning Lawrence and inappropriate photos, this type of action could and should shed some positive light in her direction.  These are the types of things that people like her can do to get positive attention, especially during times of scrutiny.

This just goes to show that we always need to be careful what we do and what we show on an outward level because it can either make or break us.  Good job Lawrence!





Sources:

https://celebrity.yahoo.com/blogs/celeb-news/jennifer-lawrence-and-chris-martin-show-off-their--love-160918597.html

http://lovebutton.org

This blog is for educational purposes only.

Hathaway disliked by many?

Anne Hathaway, a well known actress, isn't taking the news very well that she isn't the most favored actress in the industry.  She has played a variety of roles in a wide range of genres from family to comedy, but isn't quite landing the roles she would like.  It's clear that she has the skill set to be a successful actress, her history in the film industry proves that, but what is she missing?

From my point of view, it seems that she wants to be viewed differently.  She wants to land roles in movies that she hasn't played before.  She wants to be given opportunities that she isn't getting now.  But what do you do when you want to improve your image?  If you want to be viewed a certain way, you do things that are in line with the image you want to be associated with.

If Hathaway wants to be viewed differently by the public, there are many things that she could do.  If she wanted to change the way her personal life is viewed, she could involve herself in activities and efforts that will appeal to the public.  This could involve charity work, becoming an advocate for a specific cause, or participating in certain events.

To improve her image physically, she could team up with a clothing company, or a makeup company to get the public to view her in a more desirable way.  There will always be things in life that just aren't right for someone.  Maybe Hathaway won't ever be the perfect fit for every role in every movie, but if she wants to appeal to a larger portion of the public, she needs to start doing things that will cause her to be noticed.




Sources:

https://celebrity.yahoo.com/news/anne-hathaway-finding-people-hate-190300597.html

This blog is for educational purposes only.

Selena Gomez "disgusting?"

Selena Gomez, who co-starred with Jeff Garlin in the Wizards of Waverly Place, is facing hard criticism from fellow co-star about her appearance.  Over the years, Gomez has of course changed in appearance as she has become older and as her roles in television and movies have evolved.  She is not longer the young little actress from Disney channel.  However, Garlin would view things differently.

In an interview with Huffpost Live, Garlin shares his feeling about her appearance in the recent movie Spring Breakers.  "I'm by myself in the theater, and I couldn't have felt dirtier.  Great bikini shots of Selena Gomez?  I don't go there.  I see the thing, but I see those chubby cheeks.  She's a kid.  This is disgusting that it's happening so young."

Keep in mind that Selena Gomez is 22 years old.  Hardly a child if you ask me.  What business does he have stating opinions like that?  I'm pretty sure that most viewers of the movie Spring Breakers didn't have an issue with her appearance.  What I would like to consider, is what impact this will have on Garlin's career.  Yes, it's probably not that big of a deal, but it's a big enough deal to write an article about.  I'm sure Gomez isn't his biggest fan now.  How would you feel if one of your former co-starts said that about your work?

Garlin may have someone that helps him prepare for interviews, but his statements need work if he plans on avoiding offensive comments in the future.  This type of behavior will not make him any friends, and could impact his career in a negative light if comments like this continue and progress.


Sources:

https://celebrity.yahoo.com/news/jeff-garlin-calls-former-co-star-selena-gomezs-104300239.html




Note:  This blog is for educational purposes only for a course at Brigham Young University - Idaho.

Joan Rivers & The Yorkville Doctors

The death of Joan Rivers on September 4th, 2014 was a surprise to all.  But what is more surprising, is what we found out had been happening during the seemingly routine procedures being performed.

Dr. Lawrence Cohen, a doctor and co-owner of the clinic, performed the routine endoscopy.  However, an unknown doctor also performed an unauthorized biopsy after the procedure performed by Cohen.  Not only was the procedure unauthorized, but the unnamed doctor wasn't even certified to work in the clinic.  And if that couldn't get any worse, it has been reported that one of the doctors took a "selfie" while Rivers was under anesthesia.

After the biopsy was performed, Rivers went into cardiac arrest.  She was taken to the hospital, put on life support, and passed away on September 4th, 2014.  What is interesting here is what has taken place since Rivers passed away.  Nothing has been said about the supposed "selfie" nor has it surfaced on the internet, but statements have been made by the clinic and by the New York State Department of Health.  When asked about the "selfie" which was taken during the procedure, Yorkshire Endoscopy replied saying, "Yorkshire has said and still says that a biopsy of the vocal cords was never attempted or done at its site ever..."  I think it is interesting how the question wasn't even answered.  The clinic chose to ignore the obvious question, which in my opinion is a bad idea.  Anyone dealing with a companies public relations should be honest and open about the situation.  Their response makes them look guilty by not addressing the issue.  Yes, we also want to know what happened with the biopsy, and why that procedure was even performed, but that wasn't the question.

The New York State Department of Health also replied to questions regarding Rivers by saying, "The State Department of Health's investigation is ongoing.  As this is an open investigation, DOH cannot comment on any specifics regarding this investigation."  You see, that kind of response is much more understandable.  They state what they can, but also make it known and clear to readers the reason why they can't provide additional information.  The clinics method of dealing with an issue of this magnitude isn't as honorable.  However, they have taken action when it comes to making sure that the doctors in question are not practicing.  Cohen did step down after the board asked him to, which I do feel was a good move.  This shows the public that the board of the clinic does not support the actions of these two doctors.

Overall, I think it is too soon to say what will end up happening with this case.  Melissa Rivers has been talking about filing a suit against the clinic and doctors involved, but no final word has been said in regards to that.  


Sources:    

http://dailycaller.com/2014/09/16/joan-rivers-doctor-was-taking-selfies-before-throat-procedure/

http://www.hollywoodtake.com/joan-rivers-doctor-getting-sued-dr-gwen-korovins-selfie-unplanned-biopsy-could-lead-56628

http://www.cnn.com/2014/09/05/health/joan-rivers-death/

http://www.people.com/article/joan-rivers-doctor-allegations-yorkville-clinic





Note:  This blog is for educational purposes only for a course at Brigham Young University - Idaho.

Family Crisis

As I have reflected upon family crisis situations, I find it interesting how each family responds to different events.  Some families come closer together as they go through trials, and some pull farther apart.  I think that a lot of a families ability to stay together depends upon the parents.  If the parents are able to stay strong, and remain unified, then the children have a much higher chance of sticking together with the family.  It is interesting to reflect upon our own lives, and how we react to trials in our lives.  What do we do that is right?  What do we do that brings us closer together?  What do we do that we could improve on?  I would invite you to reflect upon these questions, and then work to improve your reactions to trials in your life.

Sexual Intimacy

Sexual intimacy is sacred, and should be between a man and a woman within marriage.  There are so many aspects of intimacy that could be discussed, but what really stands out to me is that sexual intimacy is a form of communication.  I had never really thought about it in that way until recently.  Although I hadn't thought of it in that way before, I agree with it.  There doesn't need to be words between two individuals to communicate with each other.  I think it is important to remember that even our wordless actions are forms of communication, and as we remember that, it may change our actions as a result.

Attraction

I had an interesting experience this past week.  There was a woman that I met, and when I met her and got to know her on a first meeting basis, she seemed like a perfectly nice individual.  Although she was pretty and attractive, my level of attractiveness to her was nothing more than me thinking she was pretty.  I was not interested in getting to know her better more than the average person I saw on the street, until the next week.  While I was in church, I had the opportunity to hear her give a talk.  While she gave her talk, she became more and more attractive.  I found this interesting because what had changed since our first meeting?  What I observed was that she was Spiritual, and that she had a testimony, and that she had depth.  This was attractive to me, and combined with her level of physical attractiveness, at this point, I was interested in dating her.  The point is, that she became more attractive as I got to know her.  She wasn't just a pretty face.  She was someone that I wanted to get to know better, someone who I had the potential of dating.  Attraction is not just skin deep.  It is much more than that.

Dating

I find the topic of dating very interesting.  I wish that there was a class on campus dedicated just to dating.  I am grateful for the time that we have had to discuss dating and it's very many aspects.  We have found that there are many dynamics when it comes to dating, and a great deal of characteristics that are found in a successful relationships.  The many events that lead up to someone dating and getting married is unique to each relationship, but there are some similarities.  What I find frustrating is that when it comes to dating, and the game of dating, it is different with each person.  Dating would be so much easier if we all followed the same "rules."  The language of love is different with each person, and with that, creates confusion and frustration when an individual is pursuing someone else. What is it about dating that is so great and so terrible at the same time?  It can sometimes be bittersweet.  We date in hopes of finding that special someone, knowing very well that it might end in heartache, but we do it anyway.  What motivates you to potentially chase disappointment?

Family Dynamics

What does the word family mean to you?  What thoughts or memories does it bring to your mind?  When you hear the word family, how do you feel?  Do you become happy, or do your thoughts take you to a place of sadness?

We all have someone that we can call family.  Whether is be a blood relative, or a best friend, family are those that we love and that love us.  Family consists of structure, and love, and learning.  We all have roles in a family, different responsibilities that we must fulfill to be successful in having a healthy family.

It is important that each of understands our role in the family, and that we help to build up a righteous posterity.  I guess my post today is more of a thought provoking post, to cause each of us to reflect upon our families, and upon our future families.

Social Class

We live in a world where we are judged, labeled, and categorized by our behaviors and by our monetary status.  It is said that the class we are born in is most likely the class that we will remain in for the duration of our lives.  Our choices and the way that we act is usually an indicator of our social class, and of the future that awaits us.

As I have thought about this kind of thinking, it has caused me to reflect on the worth of a human soul. It seems to me that we determine how much someone is worth upon conditions.  The world has caused us to look at individuals in this way, seeming to only care about the things of the world.

When we look at how valuable a human soul is, we learn that the worth of a human soul is great, and that each soul is equal.   No one is better or worth more than another.  Yes, each of us may be at different stages of monetary wealth or status, but does that really make a difference?  In some ways I think it can impact our lives, but in the grand scheme of things, it does not matter.

We must learn to be grateful for the things that we do have, and if we ever find ourselves doing well, and in a position to help others around us, we should.

Additional Blogs

•                Alexis Priestly	http://lexandfamily.weebly.com/the-family.html
•                Ally McClain	http://www.allysfamilylife.blogspot.com/
•                Amber Kranc	http://amberkranc.blogspot.com/
•                Annabel Detering	http://thoughtsonhomeandfamily.blogspot.com/
•                Bailey Baird	http://baileybaird.blogspot.com/
•                Caitlin Schofield	http://caitlinschofield.blogspot.com/
•                Candice Merrill	http://candicermerrill.blogspot.com/
•                Cristel Carlini	http://familiesareforeverandever.blogspot.com/
•                Elisse Cook	http://lovethatlasts4ever.blogspot.com/
•                Emily Hayes	http://thenutty9.blogspot.com/
•                Erica Arguello	http://familiesconnectedtoheaven.blogspot.com/
•                Hailey Patera	http://haileypaterafamily.blogspot.com/
•                Haley Lucas	http://miissblondiiefamilies.blogspot.com/
•                Heather Christensen	http://thefamilyrelationship.blogspot.com/
•                Janaya L. Johnson	http://the-family-is-ordained-of-god.blogspot.com/
•                Jenney Premont	http://thatsalongtime.blogspot.com/
•                Julie Moss	http://lovemyeternalfamily.blogspot.com/
•                Kayleena Johnston	http://throughtheeternities.blogspot.com/
•                Kaylonnie White	http://tormentorjoy.blogspot.com/
•                Kelsey Lawrence	http://familysmatteralot.blogspot.com/
•                Kelsey Murphy	http://kelseyleighannmurphy.blogspot.com/
•                Kody Daffer	http://kodydaffer.blogspot.com/
•                Krystal Palmer	http://alove4eternity.blogspot.com/
•                Laura Hudgins	http://centeredonfamily.weebly.com/index.html
•                Madeline Vance	http://madelinemarievance.blogspot.com/
•                McKayla Nicole Hess	http://smilingfamilies.blogspot.com/
•                Michael Watts	http://someviewsonlife.blogspot.com/
•                Olivia Welch	http://thestrongestalliance.blogspot.com/
•                Patrick Williams	http://patrickallenwilliams.blogspot.com/
•                Rachel Blaylock	http://4everfamiles.blogspot.com/
•                Rachel Escobar	http://raebar92.blogspot.com/
•                Sammi Scott	http://sammischaweet.blogspot.com/
•                Tamara Handa	http://familiiesareforever.blogspot.com/
•                Tina Trepanier	http://tinatrepanier.blogspot.com/
•                Tod Flory	http://familyrelationsbytod.blogspot.com/

"Couples who don't have sex before marriage are happier."

In a study performed by Brigham Young University School of Family Life, a group of over 2,000 married couples were questioned about their relationships, and the impact of sex in their marriages.  It was found that those who waited to have sex until after they were married had stronger, healthier marriages for a number of reasons.  Satisfaction of their relationships, communication strengths, and sexual intimacy improved compared to those that participated in pre marital sex.  What I found most interesting about his study, was that communication skills between spouses who waited to have sex before marriage were better than those who didn't.  The study talked about how sex is a form of communication, and those that waited to have sex were better at communicating because by not having sex, they found other ways to communicate with each other.  This caused them to be better communicators.  In response to the study performed, many readers have said that this study is biased, because it was performed by a University supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  How do you feel about this study?  What do you think about sex before marriage?  Do you think that relationships are stronger and healthier when sex is something that happens after marriage?

Family Relations

This semester, I have started taking a class about Family Relations.  I am excited to share with you all of my findings, and the things that I learn and adapt to my life.  I hope that we will enjoy the things that I share, and incorporate them into your life as well!

Dating

As individuals, we find ourselves looking for that special someone, our soul mate, our companion, the one that we will be with forever.  During this journey, we may experience love, as well as heartache.  I believe that we must take risks in order to find happiness.  Someone once said that it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.  While some may disagree with this statement, I think that it contains some truth to it.  While all of us at some point may experience loss, disappointment, rejection, betrayal, or even a broken heart, we do not need to feel like that forever.  We never know who will come in to our lives next.  Life goes on with or without us, so we might as well keep up.  The quote below from the movie The Holiday provides some interesting insights that I thought you might benefit from.
  
"I understand feeling as small and as insignificant as humanly possible. And how it can actually ache in places you didn't know you had inside you. And it doesn't matter how many new haircuts you get, or gyms you join, or how many glasses of chardonnay you drink with your girlfriends... you still go to bed every night going over every detail and wonder what you did wrong or how you could have misunderstood. And how in the hell for that brief moment you could think that you were that happy. And sometimes you can even convince yourself that he'll see the light and show up at your door. And after all that, however long all that may be, you'll go somewhere new. And you'll meet people who make you feel worthwhile again. And little pieces of your soul will finally come back. And all that fuzzy stuff, those years of your life that you wasted, that will eventually begin to fade." -Iris Simpkins, The Holiday