Dum Dum Da-Dum Daa Da Da Da da duh Dummmm.
Ok friends, you may be wondering why on earth I am cyber-humming the funeral march to you.
It is because today is a very somber day.
Today marks the tenth installment of “Addicted to Coke.”
And to you, my faithful followers, I salute you.
Thank you for your dedication. Thank you for your support. Thank you to those who accidentally stumbled onto this blog and delayed clicking away because you saw a funny quote or an interesting fact. It means a lot to me. *sniff sniff (wipe away single solitary tear)
BUT, today is not a day for sad goodbyes, NO! Today is a day for going out with a BANG!
Now, in an ideal world (where I am not a chicken) I would recount for you on this final entry to my blog my grand adventure driving the Coke truck of my dreams. I would say I boldly went up to the Coke man driver and batted my eyes, flipped my hair and in a sweet, little voice secured the drive of my life!
I would drive down the street, across the country even!
(or just ten feet in the parking lot, I wasn’t delusional) But alas, I have not. I stand before you (or write before you) a girl who still has driving a Coke truck on her Bucket List!
But have no fear! I WILL drive a Coke truck. I WILL be a pro at it. And It WILL be AMAZING!
Just not yet.
Instead, you’re going to have to just make do with one final almost-as-cool entry.
And how do I want to send you off on your merry little Coke way?
By sharing my absolutely favorite of all favorite ways to enjoy Coke!
To begin, there are several almost-as-good ways to enjoy Coke. They aren’t the supreme way, but they will do depending on if you’re in a bind or if you are in a certain mood.
First, there is the Coke float!
As the favorite late night dessert in my family there is an art to the perfect Coke float.
To begin, you need very very cold, very frozen Blue Bell Homemade Original Vanilla ice cream. Nothing else will do. None of that low fat, low cal ice cream imitation stuff. Blue Bell and that’s it!
Then, you need a very very cold can of Coke.
A few scoops (or twelve) of ice cream and then top off with Coke and you’re good to go! The real pros like to leave a little ice cream at the bottom of the glass, and mix the Coke with the melted ice cream. A delicious vanilla Coke creation appears. Once you go Coke, you can forget ever going back to plain old Root Beer, sorry Mika.
Next… in a restaurant, gas station, or public place where cans are not available, a soda fountain Coke will do. Just be sure to add a ton (I’m talking the rim of the glass) of ice. Extra ice! Just make sure you have free refills. You wouldn’t want to get gypped in the quantity of Coke you are enjoying. And remember my little loophole to the “one-Coke-a-day” rule – if it comes in ONE glass, it still counts as ONE Coke (refill away!)
But, if you have the chance to have the BEST Coke experience, this is what you do:
Take a CAN of Coke. True enthusiasts leave those gross plastic bottles behind. After the can is sufficiently chilled in the refrigerator, take one succulent can out and here is the secret…
PUT IT IN THE FREEZER!!!
After twenty minutes or so (any longer than that and your Coke desire is just too strong) take the Coke out and pop the top. If you see the frost come out of the can you know you are in business! Then, comes the best part. Take a sip.
All at once the magical mixture hits you. Slushy at the top, ice cold underneath. Pure Bliss.
---
Sorry, I lost myself in daydreaming about it…
As you can see, I have just told you a secret that will change your entire opinion of cold beverages. Use it wisely friends. Do not bestow this secret on those unworthy of the slushy Coke, some just can’t handle it.
But to you who can – I say enjoy every last drop.
Cheers friends, it’s been real. “The Real Thing” that is.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
"I said Burr! It's cold in here!"
So, in case anybody was wondering, yesterday was the first official day of spring. Yes, I know, shocker, right?
And with the first official day of spring came a FREAK snow event (as my dad called it) where North Texas was the proud recipient of an Arctic blast. Yes, I said arctic blast. Plus at least three inches of snow! Get out of town!
So, in honor of our mini snow day I have decided that for week nine of “Addicted to Coke” I will dedicate my blog to the famous Coke polar bears.
Here goes:
I mentioned on my very first day of blogging that my favorite time of year is when the polar bear commercials come on TV and Santa is on my can. Well, little did I know that Coke has gone way beyond having polar bears star in their holiday commercials. Coke has extended its social responsibility endeavors to creating The Coca-Cola Company Polar Bear Support Fund. Wow, what a mouthful!
So, what does the Coca-Cola Company Polar Bear Support Fund actually do???
Well, I’m glad you asked!
Since it’s creation in 2007, the foundation has donated more than $500,000 to the World Wildlife Fund as well as an additional $100,000 through the myCokeRewards brand loyalty program! Can you believe it!?! All these proceeds have gone to help protect polar bears and their natural habitats!
Want to know where donations actually go??? Well, donations to the Polar Bear fund go directly to work in the field. Researchers use the money to assess the health conditions of the bears and observe their reproductive patterns. This is especially important because there are only 22,000 polar bears estimated to be in existence. Sad day! The impact of global warming on the sea ice where the bears live is huge as the climate changes threaten to destroy their homes.
So, other than the Coke Polar Bear fund, what is Coke doing to help the environment???
Have you ever seen a Coke truck with a “no emissions” sign on it? I sure have!
That’s because Coke is working to substantially reduce its greenhouse gas emissions in refrigerated trucks as well as manufacturing plants.
What else, Coke???
Well, reduce, reuse and recycle, of course! By reducing water usage in their operations, recycling water they use in the manufacturing process and replenishing the water supply in local communities, Coke is doing everything they can to limit excessive water consumption.
Finally, with recyclable materials and sustainable packaging, Coke is promoting packaging designs that use less material without sacrificing quality of their amazing products! Thank goodness!
Want to know how you can help the cause?
Donate to the Coca-Cola Company Polar Bear Support Fund, send an environmentally friendly e-card instead of a paper greeting card or, just drink a Coke!
I’m sure you all know how I will be contributing! Haha
After all, it’s all for the polar bears… :D
And with the first official day of spring came a FREAK snow event (as my dad called it) where North Texas was the proud recipient of an Arctic blast. Yes, I said arctic blast. Plus at least three inches of snow! Get out of town!
So, in honor of our mini snow day I have decided that for week nine of “Addicted to Coke” I will dedicate my blog to the famous Coke polar bears.
Here goes:
I mentioned on my very first day of blogging that my favorite time of year is when the polar bear commercials come on TV and Santa is on my can. Well, little did I know that Coke has gone way beyond having polar bears star in their holiday commercials. Coke has extended its social responsibility endeavors to creating The Coca-Cola Company Polar Bear Support Fund. Wow, what a mouthful!
So, what does the Coca-Cola Company Polar Bear Support Fund actually do???
Well, I’m glad you asked!
Since it’s creation in 2007, the foundation has donated more than $500,000 to the World Wildlife Fund as well as an additional $100,000 through the myCokeRewards brand loyalty program! Can you believe it!?! All these proceeds have gone to help protect polar bears and their natural habitats!
Want to know where donations actually go??? Well, donations to the Polar Bear fund go directly to work in the field. Researchers use the money to assess the health conditions of the bears and observe their reproductive patterns. This is especially important because there are only 22,000 polar bears estimated to be in existence. Sad day! The impact of global warming on the sea ice where the bears live is huge as the climate changes threaten to destroy their homes.
So, other than the Coke Polar Bear fund, what is Coke doing to help the environment???
Have you ever seen a Coke truck with a “no emissions” sign on it? I sure have!
That’s because Coke is working to substantially reduce its greenhouse gas emissions in refrigerated trucks as well as manufacturing plants.
What else, Coke???
Well, reduce, reuse and recycle, of course! By reducing water usage in their operations, recycling water they use in the manufacturing process and replenishing the water supply in local communities, Coke is doing everything they can to limit excessive water consumption.
Finally, with recyclable materials and sustainable packaging, Coke is promoting packaging designs that use less material without sacrificing quality of their amazing products! Thank goodness!
Want to know how you can help the cause?
Donate to the Coca-Cola Company Polar Bear Support Fund, send an environmentally friendly e-card instead of a paper greeting card or, just drink a Coke!
I’m sure you all know how I will be contributing! Haha
After all, it’s all for the polar bears… :D
Sunday, March 14, 2010
"Gulp Gulp Gulp. Slurp. Ahhhhhh."
Does everybody know what time it is???
no, not Tool Time.
Any other guesses???
If you said SPRING BREAK, you are right!!! Good job! You win!!!
Now, I have made some pretty amazing connections to the Coke world in the past few weeks. Valentine's day? Do-able.
Olympics? Don't make me laugh.
We even covered social responsibility and tackling the nation's obesity problem. That's a lot of Coke to go around. But spring break??? Oh yes, it can be done.
Now, for SB'10, my fam and I are venturing to the mountains for a little ski action. We are heading out early early early on Tuesday morning for a ten hour drive. Woo Hoo.
Now, I anticipate this to be a rather enjoyable ride because of several factors.
1.No one under the age of four will be going with us. Now, I love kids, but ten hours of Spongebob really wears on the nerves.
2.No pets are going. And as much as I wish Rosco could come on this little trek with us, again, ten hours of doggie breath – not exactly the most appealing thing.
3.And third, possibly the most important reason this will be a great car trip?
Two words –
rest stop.
I love them, I really do. Except for the whole gross factor, they really are not so bad.
And... I love the snacks!
Corn nuts and jerky is always a winning combination for any car trip, Throw in some Sour Patch Straws and any distance across the country is a walk in the park. I know I would recommend it, but...there are those rest stop enthusiasts that would say a car trip is incomplete without – the Slurpee.
And here, my friends, we have our connection to Coke.
Haha, see, I told you it could be done. And you doubted my ability to make some obscure connection!
So, in honor of spring break and my impending vacation, I thought for this week I would share with you the highlights of the history of the Slurpee and its evolution in the world of Coke!
First, the 7-Eleven company began selling this convenience store staple in 1967.
Want to know the Slurpee Capital of the World? Winnipeg, Manitoba (that's in Canada) has held the prestigious title for ten years now because of average sales reaching 188,330 Slurpee drinks sold per day! Unbelievably, the rest of Canada only sells an average of 5,990 Slurpees per day! Crazy!
Also, what's in a name???
The name “Slurpee” was given to the drink because of the (get this) slurping sound made when drinking it. Go figure!
Want to know my favorite part of the entire Slurpee experience? I'm a fan of the straw with a spoon on the end. (Does that thing have a specific name? I feel like it should, any straw/spoon experts out there???) There is something just soo cute about a baby spoon, it makes everything taste better!
So, whatever your flavor preference, if you are a cherry fan, a Sprite fan or the best choice, COKE, slurp away spring breakers and enjoy!
(facts about the origin of Slurpee courtesy of Wikipedia)
no, not Tool Time.
Any other guesses???
If you said SPRING BREAK, you are right!!! Good job! You win!!!
Now, I have made some pretty amazing connections to the Coke world in the past few weeks. Valentine's day? Do-able.
Olympics? Don't make me laugh.
We even covered social responsibility and tackling the nation's obesity problem. That's a lot of Coke to go around. But spring break??? Oh yes, it can be done.
Now, for SB'10, my fam and I are venturing to the mountains for a little ski action. We are heading out early early early on Tuesday morning for a ten hour drive. Woo Hoo.
Now, I anticipate this to be a rather enjoyable ride because of several factors.
1.No one under the age of four will be going with us. Now, I love kids, but ten hours of Spongebob really wears on the nerves.
2.No pets are going. And as much as I wish Rosco could come on this little trek with us, again, ten hours of doggie breath – not exactly the most appealing thing.
3.And third, possibly the most important reason this will be a great car trip?
Two words –
rest stop.
I love them, I really do. Except for the whole gross factor, they really are not so bad.
And... I love the snacks!
Corn nuts and jerky is always a winning combination for any car trip, Throw in some Sour Patch Straws and any distance across the country is a walk in the park. I know I would recommend it, but...there are those rest stop enthusiasts that would say a car trip is incomplete without – the Slurpee.
And here, my friends, we have our connection to Coke.
Haha, see, I told you it could be done. And you doubted my ability to make some obscure connection!
So, in honor of spring break and my impending vacation, I thought for this week I would share with you the highlights of the history of the Slurpee and its evolution in the world of Coke!
First, the 7-Eleven company began selling this convenience store staple in 1967.
Want to know the Slurpee Capital of the World? Winnipeg, Manitoba (that's in Canada) has held the prestigious title for ten years now because of average sales reaching 188,330 Slurpee drinks sold per day! Unbelievably, the rest of Canada only sells an average of 5,990 Slurpees per day! Crazy!
Also, what's in a name???
The name “Slurpee” was given to the drink because of the (get this) slurping sound made when drinking it. Go figure!
Want to know my favorite part of the entire Slurpee experience? I'm a fan of the straw with a spoon on the end. (Does that thing have a specific name? I feel like it should, any straw/spoon experts out there???) There is something just soo cute about a baby spoon, it makes everything taste better!
So, whatever your flavor preference, if you are a cherry fan, a Sprite fan or the best choice, COKE, slurp away spring breakers and enjoy!
(facts about the origin of Slurpee courtesy of Wikipedia)
Sunday, March 7, 2010
New Coke....cans
New Coke made its worldwide debut in 1985.
New Coke???
Yes. New Coke.
Now I know some of us were not around then to remember the attempt at a “newer, fresher product” to counteract the P#@$% craze (I refuse to write that word), but I do remember the backlash.
The public erupted in rage at the mere thought of changing Coke’s top secret, time-honored recipe. This is not Coke as J. Pemberton intended it! Blasphemy!
So, as a result of the epic fail that was New Coke, came the anti-New Coke Movement and the introduction of Coke Classic. Whew. Nice save Coke. Way to go.
“Coca-Cola Classis is always the one….” Sing along if you know the words.
Now, other than this one small blip on Coke’s record, the brand has been quite consistent. The only thing that has changed a little is the packaging.
First there was Coke sold from a soda fountain.
Then, because of a revolutionary marketing idea, the distinguishable Coke bottles emerged on the scene so people could enjoy Coke from the comfort of their homes. Genius concept. I enjoy the product from the comfort of my own home quite frequently. Thanks.
Fun fact – in 1915 when The Coca-Cola Company sponsored a competition among bottle makers, they wanted a bottle for Coke that distinguished the product from all the competition. The result was the unmistakable contour bottle. Cool, huh?
Then, sfter the small bottle holding 6.5 ounces, came a larger bottle – again accepted with hesitance at first.
Then, naturally the product packaging evolved to plastic bottles of all sizes and aluminum cans. Now we are all caught up to speed.
But, there is a new kid on the block.
The baby can. At least that was my first reaction when I saw the tiny can on my supermarket shelve.
Now, next to the 12 packs and the 24 packs, the nostalgic glass bottles and the two liter party bottles is a tiny tiny 8-pack of Coke. Precious, right?
Yes. Adorable. But in addition to being just too cute to drink (almost), this new can comes with a load of responsibility. Social responsibility that is.
The new can is Coke’s attempt at a “portion-control option” for its health conscious consumers. With only 90 calories per serving and less than half the size of the standard 20-ounce bottle, this baby can deliver all the classic taste – just in smaller quantities. Take that, “Supersize Me.”
Coke is even expanding the idea to Cherry Coke, Sprite, Fanta Orange and Barq’s Root Beer! That’s a lot of mini cans!
Available across the United States by March 2010 this new can seems like the perfect amount. Well, that is, the perfect amount for those of you watching calorie intake.
Now, I don’t know about you, but I will go without that cookie after dinner (or let’s face it, dinner altogether) just so I can have my full 12 ounces of happiness in a can, but I am a pro. If you can’t finish that can, don’t worry. I won’t judge.
Cheers to you, baby cans. Thanks for spreading the Coke love one portion-controlled serving at a time!
-details on the new Coke cans courtesy of Jane Black, "A new Coke? Well it's smaller", The Washington Post
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Get the scoop! Fro-yo and COKE!
Ok guys! Here we are. Week 6. I have shared my obsession with you now for five weeks in a row. We have covered the romantic side of Coke and in my opinion it is not a true Olympic season without a gazillion Coke sponsored commercials. Well done friends, we have laid a solid Coke foundation.
And the question on everyone’s mind? What now???
Well, to be honest, I asked myself the same question today. I said, “Kennedy, what is going on in the World of Coke today???”
To the best of my knowledge, it is not polar bear appreciation day or anything, so what topic is appropriate for February 28th?
The answer lies with Menchies.
Many of you are familiar with the fro-yo craze that seems to be sweeping the nation. It started with Frog Berry. Then Yogolait came into our lives. And now, there is the blissful happy hour during which we all flock to Menchies.
Now, I could use this blog time to debate the pros and cons, favorite flavors vs. favorite toppings – basically stir up a rousing, controversial discussion about the merits of the sampling cup, but that is neither here nor there. I guess we will have to save that debate for another blogger.
Now I have a point guys, bear with me.
So, how does the answer lie with Menchies? Insert story:
I went to Menchies tonight. The flavor of my choosing today was a dollop of pomegranate raspberry sorbet on a bed of York Peppermint Patty with a surrounding layer of original tart. Add ants (chocolate sprinkles) and a few pieces of cookie dough and you are all set. Pure bliss.
Now, as I was eating, I got a small small, teensy tiny bit of pomegranate raspberry on my shirt. Sorry mom.
Then, follow this brain wave:
Stain – club soda – club soda – soda pop – soda pop – COKE! Crazy uses for COKE!
And that, my friends, is how I came up with today’s topic! I wanted to see what crazy uses there are in the world for Coke!
Here is what I found thanks to Jennifer Eblin from associatedcontent.com:
Coke is excellent for cleaning things! The citric acid is great at removing stains – in your toilet, or in your laundry!!! Put coke in the bowl of the toilet and let it sit for an hour-ish (or longer) and then flush or pour a can of Coke into the laundry with your regular detergent! The Coke washes out (or down) and takes stains with it! Coke is also good at removing grease from backsplashes, countertops or stoves and ovens. Coca-Cola also has numerous unusual uses around the outside of your house! You can use the soda on any rusty bolts or screws, to loosen them. Crazy, huh!
Coke is also a good rust remover! Got a rusty bumper??? Forget Lighting McQueen and “Rusteeze” Just use COKE!
So, now don’t be alarmed. Coke! On a toilet or a rusty bumper? And I am drinking that?!?
Yes. And it is still delicious. Who knows, today rusty screws and bolts, a little grease in the kitchen, tomorrow, the COMMON COLD.
Drink up, my friends. Drink up!
And the question on everyone’s mind? What now???
Well, to be honest, I asked myself the same question today. I said, “Kennedy, what is going on in the World of Coke today???”
To the best of my knowledge, it is not polar bear appreciation day or anything, so what topic is appropriate for February 28th?
The answer lies with Menchies.
Many of you are familiar with the fro-yo craze that seems to be sweeping the nation. It started with Frog Berry. Then Yogolait came into our lives. And now, there is the blissful happy hour during which we all flock to Menchies.
Now, I could use this blog time to debate the pros and cons, favorite flavors vs. favorite toppings – basically stir up a rousing, controversial discussion about the merits of the sampling cup, but that is neither here nor there. I guess we will have to save that debate for another blogger.
Now I have a point guys, bear with me.
So, how does the answer lie with Menchies? Insert story:
I went to Menchies tonight. The flavor of my choosing today was a dollop of pomegranate raspberry sorbet on a bed of York Peppermint Patty with a surrounding layer of original tart. Add ants (chocolate sprinkles) and a few pieces of cookie dough and you are all set. Pure bliss.
Now, as I was eating, I got a small small, teensy tiny bit of pomegranate raspberry on my shirt. Sorry mom.
Then, follow this brain wave:
Stain – club soda – club soda – soda pop – soda pop – COKE! Crazy uses for COKE!
And that, my friends, is how I came up with today’s topic! I wanted to see what crazy uses there are in the world for Coke!
Here is what I found thanks to Jennifer Eblin from associatedcontent.com:
Coke is excellent for cleaning things! The citric acid is great at removing stains – in your toilet, or in your laundry!!! Put coke in the bowl of the toilet and let it sit for an hour-ish (or longer) and then flush or pour a can of Coke into the laundry with your regular detergent! The Coke washes out (or down) and takes stains with it! Coke is also good at removing grease from backsplashes, countertops or stoves and ovens. Coca-Cola also has numerous unusual uses around the outside of your house! You can use the soda on any rusty bolts or screws, to loosen them. Crazy, huh!
Coke is also a good rust remover! Got a rusty bumper??? Forget Lighting McQueen and “Rusteeze” Just use COKE!
So, now don’t be alarmed. Coke! On a toilet or a rusty bumper? And I am drinking that?!?
Yes. And it is still delicious. Who knows, today rusty screws and bolts, a little grease in the kitchen, tomorrow, the COMMON COLD.
Drink up, my friends. Drink up!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Goin' for the Gold!
Ohno skates for his life on the short track. White soars into the atmosphere on an amazing half-pipe trick. Vonn sets records on the downhill. And what do they all have in common?
Coke.
Haha, that is right my friends, COKE!
Now, even though I don’t personally know Apollo Ohno… or Shaun White… or even Lindsey Vonn, I would bet that it is possibly, maybe, potentially safe to say that as soon as they all finished their respective events, the first thing they all did was go grab an ice cold Coke!
I mean, right??? Isn’t that the first thing you would do if you won Olympic gold??? :D
Ok Ok, maybe this time I did take it a little far. But just a little!!!
And maybe I embellished a tad when I claimed that the first thing they would all do would be to grab a Coke. Ok, maybe a little more than a tad, but I had to make a point, didn’t I!!!
So, now that I have your attention, I can give actual facts!
Did you know that Coca-Cola is the longest continuous corporate supporter of the Olympics with support dating back to 1928???
And did you know that an agreement between Coke and the IOC extends the contract for another 12 years (unprecedented in its own right) to ensure almost a century of sponsorship???
And did you know that Coke supports National Olympic committees in more than over 200 countries which helps athletes train and prepare for the Olympic games???
Believe it!
And, as icing on the Olympic cake, Coke is going GREEN while they’re at it!!!
Whoa! Slow down Kennedy! Going green too?
Why YES my fellow blog enthusiasts! Going green too!!!
Coca-Cola is embarking on their FIRST zero-waste, carbon-neutral sponsorship for the 2010 games!
How you ask?
Well, all the coolers that supply the delicious bubbly beverage (all 1,500 of them!) will use a brand new type of technology that nearly eliminates all gas emissions!
A whole slew of diesel-electric hybrid vehicles will deliver the beverages to the Olympics and within the venues, electric carts will be used!
Things such as tables, displays, menu boards and even ALL STAFF UNIFORMS (the website says everything but underwear and shoes!) will be made of recyclable materials – especially recycled bottles! I don't know about you, but if anybody can make a plastic bottle shirt, Coke can!
I even read that the selection of the torchbearers for the relay across Canada involved an environmentally friendly essay question!
According to Natalie Zmuda, a reporter for Advertising Age, this attempt made by Coke will definitely raise the bar when it comes to corporate sponsorships in the future! And while it is a slightly risky undertaking for such monumental progress so soon (as opposed to setting a goal like this to be accomplished sometime in the future) Coke is certainly up for the challenge!!!
Way to go Coke! That is as good as GOLD in my book!
-facts and statistics courtesy of:
Natalie Zmuda, "Coca-Cola Goes Completely Green at Olympics". Advertising Age
Thomas Alan Gray, "Coke Sponsors 2010 Vancouver Olympics" Suite101.com
Coke.
Haha, that is right my friends, COKE!
Now, even though I don’t personally know Apollo Ohno… or Shaun White… or even Lindsey Vonn, I would bet that it is possibly, maybe, potentially safe to say that as soon as they all finished their respective events, the first thing they all did was go grab an ice cold Coke!
I mean, right??? Isn’t that the first thing you would do if you won Olympic gold??? :D
Ok Ok, maybe this time I did take it a little far. But just a little!!!
And maybe I embellished a tad when I claimed that the first thing they would all do would be to grab a Coke. Ok, maybe a little more than a tad, but I had to make a point, didn’t I!!!
So, now that I have your attention, I can give actual facts!
Did you know that Coca-Cola is the longest continuous corporate supporter of the Olympics with support dating back to 1928???
And did you know that an agreement between Coke and the IOC extends the contract for another 12 years (unprecedented in its own right) to ensure almost a century of sponsorship???
And did you know that Coke supports National Olympic committees in more than over 200 countries which helps athletes train and prepare for the Olympic games???
Believe it!
And, as icing on the Olympic cake, Coke is going GREEN while they’re at it!!!
Whoa! Slow down Kennedy! Going green too?
Why YES my fellow blog enthusiasts! Going green too!!!
Coca-Cola is embarking on their FIRST zero-waste, carbon-neutral sponsorship for the 2010 games!
How you ask?
Well, all the coolers that supply the delicious bubbly beverage (all 1,500 of them!) will use a brand new type of technology that nearly eliminates all gas emissions!
A whole slew of diesel-electric hybrid vehicles will deliver the beverages to the Olympics and within the venues, electric carts will be used!
Things such as tables, displays, menu boards and even ALL STAFF UNIFORMS (the website says everything but underwear and shoes!) will be made of recyclable materials – especially recycled bottles! I don't know about you, but if anybody can make a plastic bottle shirt, Coke can!
I even read that the selection of the torchbearers for the relay across Canada involved an environmentally friendly essay question!
According to Natalie Zmuda, a reporter for Advertising Age, this attempt made by Coke will definitely raise the bar when it comes to corporate sponsorships in the future! And while it is a slightly risky undertaking for such monumental progress so soon (as opposed to setting a goal like this to be accomplished sometime in the future) Coke is certainly up for the challenge!!!
Way to go Coke! That is as good as GOLD in my book!
-facts and statistics courtesy of:
Natalie Zmuda, "Coca-Cola Goes Completely Green at Olympics". Advertising Age
Thomas Alan Gray, "Coke Sponsors 2010 Vancouver Olympics" Suite101.com
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Will You Be My Valentine?
http://www.tin-signs.net/coca-cola/d1304-coca-cola.jpg
February 14th. The Day of Love. Valentine's Day. And...
Now, at this point, I am sure you all are saying:
Well friends, let’s just say you ain’t seen nothin’ yet!
So, what is the next question on your mind?
Oh contraire my friends, it CAN be done…
Now, on this Hallmark occasion when love is in the air, I am so excited to share with you stories of Coke love.
Coke love???
For example, one woman writes:
Now it just doesn’t get much better than that! A Coke date, then a Coke couple, and now a little Coke baby!!!
The web site is full of stories just like this, but as I write this blog, I have to brag a little that I have a real life Coke love story of my own…
It all began one snowy night in February. Well actually the snow was melting and it was early evening but you get the idea. It was the night my bf and I were going to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
After some light primping and beautifying, I am picked up at the door by my date. I can see he has something behind his back, but I can’t be sure.
Then, as he brings his arm around to show me what he was hiding, what do I see???
Roses? No.
Tulips? No.
Coke? Yes.
Believe it, my friends! My boyfriend, knowing my love of the deliciousness that is Coke, has made me a Coke bouquet.
Inside an oversized Coke bottle there were four real stems from real roses, but on the ends, not a delicate flower bud, but rather four charming Coke cans making up the marvelous gift.
I was speechless! Literally! And that’s hard to do!
As I placed the “Coke flowers” on my desk I thought several things to myself:
So I asked.
“Just stems,” he answered.
So, with “just stems,” a few Coke cans, and a lot of imagination, I feel like I can include myself in the lucky category of Coke romance.
Happy Valentine’s Day everybody. Share a Coke with someone you love.
Monday, February 8, 2010
"I'd Like To Buy the World a Coke"
Hey Guys! Ok, we have to start at the beginning in order to get the full effect. And that beginning begins on January 18, 1971.
The creative director for the Coca-Cola account with the McCann-Erickson advertising agency was on his way to meet the music director for the account when his plane had to land due to a massive fog in London. There, furious passengers were so frustrated that they had to hand out near the airport in case the fog lifted that tempers were high.
By the second day near the airport, Bill Backer (the creative director) saw some of the most irritated passengers laughing and talking together over bottles of Coke. Bill Backer described the scene as:
"In that moment [I] saw a bottle of Coke in a whole new light... [I] began to see a bottle of Coca-Cola as more than a drink that refreshed a hundred million people a day in almost every corner of the globe. So [I] began to see the familiar words, 'Let's have a Coke,' as more than an invitation to pause for refreshment. They were actually a subtle way of saying, 'Let's keep each other company for a little while.' And [I] knew they were being said all over the world as [I] sat there in Ireland. So that was the basic idea: to see Coke not as it was originally designed to be -- a liquid refresher -- but as a tiny bit of commonality between all peoples, a universally liked formula that would help to keep them company for a few minutes."
The jingle that we all know was then inspired and after its radio release, people were phoning in to radio stations requesting the jingle just like a top hit!
To read more about the ad that changed pop culture forever, click here: http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/heritage/cokelore_hilltop.html
The creative director for the Coca-Cola account with the McCann-Erickson advertising agency was on his way to meet the music director for the account when his plane had to land due to a massive fog in London. There, furious passengers were so frustrated that they had to hand out near the airport in case the fog lifted that tempers were high.
By the second day near the airport, Bill Backer (the creative director) saw some of the most irritated passengers laughing and talking together over bottles of Coke. Bill Backer described the scene as:
"In that moment [I] saw a bottle of Coke in a whole new light... [I] began to see a bottle of Coca-Cola as more than a drink that refreshed a hundred million people a day in almost every corner of the globe. So [I] began to see the familiar words, 'Let's have a Coke,' as more than an invitation to pause for refreshment. They were actually a subtle way of saying, 'Let's keep each other company for a little while.' And [I] knew they were being said all over the world as [I] sat there in Ireland. So that was the basic idea: to see Coke not as it was originally designed to be -- a liquid refresher -- but as a tiny bit of commonality between all peoples, a universally liked formula that would help to keep them company for a few minutes."
The jingle that we all know was then inspired and after its radio release, people were phoning in to radio stations requesting the jingle just like a top hit!
To read more about the ad that changed pop culture forever, click here: http://www.thecoca-colacompany.com/heritage/cokelore_hilltop.html
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Bravo Coke, Bravo!
Hello Friends! Ok as I write this blog entry I am certain of three things.
One: There are a whole bunch of happy
a) Louisianans and
b) Trendy blog followers that have no clue about football but just know the name Reggie Bush because he is connected to Kim Kardashian and thus, were rooting for the Saints.
Two: There are a whole bunch of unhappy
a) Indianans and
b) Teenage to middle-age women who are in love with Payton or Eli and pretty much the entire Manning family and thus, were rooting for the Colts.
Three: There is a large chunk of the United States that really couldn’t care less about the turnout of the game because
a) The Cowboys weren’t playing
b) The Cowboys should have been playing
c) The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders weren’t on the screen.
I smile a happy smile when the E-trade baby comes on the screen.
I shed a single solitary tear when a Clydesdale horse finds a friend.
And I salute the Doritos kid when he puts mom’s hot date in his place.
But… this is not a blog about Superbowl ads.
This, my friends, is a place to pay tribute to one of the advertising giants of our time, Coca-Cola.
Since the beginning of time – or when Coke was first created, which let’s face it is the same thing – Coke has ruled when it comes to advertising. How else do you become "the most popular and biggest-selling soft drink in history, as well as the best-known product in the world?”
-The Coca-Cola Website
Advertising genius for Coke has come in many forms:
The Polar bears are welcomed into our homes when the weather turns cold.
“I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” changed our lives and sent Coke straight to the top of the greatest campaigns in advertising history.
And slogans like “It’s the Real Thing,” “Always Coca-Cola,” “Life Tastes Good,” and “The Coke Side of Life” have survived the test of time and have a way of always bringing us back to yesteryear - the good life.
True story: In 1993 I was four years old. Not an age where you remember commercial slogans, right?
Wrong.
I can still quote to you parts of that year’s Coke ads:
“Coca-Cola Classic, it’s always the one! When the boys are having fun, it’s Always Coca-Cola. Yeah-ahhhhh.”
(For the version in tune, ask me to sing in person and I’d be happy to oblige!)
I remember guys wrestling around and playing football and I remember them coming in from a fun afternoon and finishing off that great day with a Coke like I watched the commercial yesterday. FOUR years old, people!!!
Great campaigns do that. They stick with you for fifteen years. They stay in the brain of a four year old so when she is asked to write a blog as a junior in college, she can remember crazy stories just like this.
So, here’s to you Coke! Cheers to the brand that still has Santa on their cans! Kudos to the commercial that shows just how refreshing Coke is with a guys searching for an ice-cold bottle of Coke on a hot and sweaty day! Bravo Coke, Bravo! We will be waiting for what you have coming up next!
“Yeah-ahhhhhhh.”
One: There are a whole bunch of happy
a) Louisianans and
b) Trendy blog followers that have no clue about football but just know the name Reggie Bush because he is connected to Kim Kardashian and thus, were rooting for the Saints.
Two: There are a whole bunch of unhappy
a) Indianans and
b) Teenage to middle-age women who are in love with Payton or Eli and pretty much the entire Manning family and thus, were rooting for the Colts.
Three: There is a large chunk of the United States that really couldn’t care less about the turnout of the game because
a) The Cowboys weren’t playing
b) The Cowboys should have been playing
c) The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders weren’t on the screen.
Am I right??? I mean whoop-de-doop about the Superbowl and everything, but biased or not (I am a proud supporter – born and raised- of America’s team, thank you very much!) but let’s face it, half the draw of tonight’s hype was… THE ADS
As a current student of the advertising arts, I have a special place in my heart for all things funny and witty, somewhat attention grabbing, and especially memorable when it comes to ads.
As a current student of the advertising arts, I have a special place in my heart for all things funny and witty, somewhat attention grabbing, and especially memorable when it comes to ads.
And, bottom line, Superbowl Ads are the big kahunas of them all.
I smile a happy smile when the E-trade baby comes on the screen.
I shed a single solitary tear when a Clydesdale horse finds a friend.
And I salute the Doritos kid when he puts mom’s hot date in his place.
But… this is not a blog about Superbowl ads.
This, my friends, is a place to pay tribute to one of the advertising giants of our time, Coca-Cola.
Since the beginning of time – or when Coke was first created, which let’s face it is the same thing – Coke has ruled when it comes to advertising. How else do you become "the most popular and biggest-selling soft drink in history, as well as the best-known product in the world?”
-The Coca-Cola Website
Advertising genius for Coke has come in many forms:
The Polar bears are welcomed into our homes when the weather turns cold.
“I’d Like to Buy the World a Coke” changed our lives and sent Coke straight to the top of the greatest campaigns in advertising history.
And slogans like “It’s the Real Thing,” “Always Coca-Cola,” “Life Tastes Good,” and “The Coke Side of Life” have survived the test of time and have a way of always bringing us back to yesteryear - the good life.
To learn more about ALL of Coke's campaigns, visit the website!
True story: In 1993 I was four years old. Not an age where you remember commercial slogans, right?
Wrong.
I can still quote to you parts of that year’s Coke ads:
“Coca-Cola Classic, it’s always the one! When the boys are having fun, it’s Always Coca-Cola. Yeah-ahhhhh.”
(For the version in tune, ask me to sing in person and I’d be happy to oblige!)
I remember guys wrestling around and playing football and I remember them coming in from a fun afternoon and finishing off that great day with a Coke like I watched the commercial yesterday. FOUR years old, people!!!
Great campaigns do that. They stick with you for fifteen years. They stay in the brain of a four year old so when she is asked to write a blog as a junior in college, she can remember crazy stories just like this.
So, here’s to you Coke! Cheers to the brand that still has Santa on their cans! Kudos to the commercial that shows just how refreshing Coke is with a guys searching for an ice-cold bottle of Coke on a hot and sweaty day! Bravo Coke, Bravo! We will be waiting for what you have coming up next!
“Yeah-ahhhhhhh.”
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Hello and welcome back Coke Fans! I hope everyone has had a wonderfully Coke-filled week!
Now, before we get to the featured presentation for this week I have a small anecdote to share with the class.
Allow me to set the stage for you:
It is Friday night. I have just spent a rip-roaring day at the rodeo in Fort Worth. Fantastic. I had a great time – saw some little piggies that went to market, saw a cow almost jump over the moon and then we saw 101 rabbits! And all that was before the clowns chased the bulls. Or the bulls chased the clowns. Either way it was great!
Now, amidst all my fun I have just not had my Coke for the day.
I know, I know, alert the media.
Well, after I get back from the aforementioned rodeo, I start to get a tiny headache. Soon, this small irritation in my life mutates into a headache that was like a buckin’ bronco inside my head.
Ouch.
As I was approaching the point in the headache where I felt like my brain was going to be squeezed out my ears, I dash into my dorm room to find the last Coke – waiting for me in the refrigerator.
Now, call me crazy, but I am almost positive I saw an angelic glow around the can, beckoning me towards it. Yes, it looked that good.
I snatched the can and then popped the top. That sound, that glorious sound…
“chek-chhhhh. Gulp! Gulp! Gulp! Ahhhh.”
Immediate relief ensued. My life was saved thanks to that glorious beverage.
So to that, I say:
“Thank you, Coke.”
My headache was gone, almost instantly. If that isn’t proof enough for the wonders that Coke brings to my life, there really isn’t anything I can do to change your mind. I just described a mini miracle, people. If you’re not with me yet, it’s time to jump on the band wagon.
Anyway… back to the main event.
Now, I have long boasted that I can differentiate - without a doubt – true Coke.
Try to pass off let’s say (shudder) DIET Coke, or even worse, that-other-drink-that-must-not-be-named, and I’ll call you out.
Today, my friends, my seasoned taste buds were put to the ultimate test.
My boyfriend knows of my recent task to blog about Coke. In an attempt to give me something to blog about and to have a little fun, he created an experiment.
First, I had to sit in a chair with my eyes closed. This in itself was an almost impossible task considering he told me it had to do with Coke, and even more difficult when I heard the “chek-chhhh” but did not get to do the “Gulp! Gulp! Gulp! Ahhhh!”
So, there I am with my eyes closed, waiting. I can hear Coke all around me and then I am allowed to open my eyes. He hands me two red cups filled with what looks like Coke.
I take both of them and he says, “taste them.”
Insert background information:
While at Central Market the other day, my boyfriend saw a massive bottle of Coke. He said to himself, “hmm. That looks suspiciously like the Coke bottles they have in Mexico. I wonder if it is the Coke from Mexico. Yes, yes it is the Coke from Mexico! I will get some and do an experiment with Kennedy…”
Resume experiment:
So, there I am, tasting two very similar Cokes. But I know there is a catch. With my killer Coke instincts I know there is an imposter among us. I taste. And I taste. And I taste some more (it was delicious) and finally he asks me, “which one do you like better?”
Moment of truth. I know I have to answer correctly – my reputation is hanging in the balance. I point to cup number one and…
Muah ha ha. Right on the nose! From my careful observation I detected a slight difference between Cokes A and B. Coke A was bubbly, crisp and a tad more refreshing. Coke B was a little sweeter and not as fizzy. As it turns out, Coke B was the imposter – sent all the way from Mexico and made with real sugar!
Nice try Coke from Mexico, nice try.
Now, before we get to the featured presentation for this week I have a small anecdote to share with the class.
Allow me to set the stage for you:
It is Friday night. I have just spent a rip-roaring day at the rodeo in Fort Worth. Fantastic. I had a great time – saw some little piggies that went to market, saw a cow almost jump over the moon and then we saw 101 rabbits! And all that was before the clowns chased the bulls. Or the bulls chased the clowns. Either way it was great!
Now, amidst all my fun I have just not had my Coke for the day.
I know, I know, alert the media.
Well, after I get back from the aforementioned rodeo, I start to get a tiny headache. Soon, this small irritation in my life mutates into a headache that was like a buckin’ bronco inside my head.
Ouch.
As I was approaching the point in the headache where I felt like my brain was going to be squeezed out my ears, I dash into my dorm room to find the last Coke – waiting for me in the refrigerator.
Now, call me crazy, but I am almost positive I saw an angelic glow around the can, beckoning me towards it. Yes, it looked that good.
I snatched the can and then popped the top. That sound, that glorious sound…
“chek-chhhhh. Gulp! Gulp! Gulp! Ahhhh.”
Immediate relief ensued. My life was saved thanks to that glorious beverage.
So to that, I say:
“Thank you, Coke.”
My headache was gone, almost instantly. If that isn’t proof enough for the wonders that Coke brings to my life, there really isn’t anything I can do to change your mind. I just described a mini miracle, people. If you’re not with me yet, it’s time to jump on the band wagon.
Anyway… back to the main event.
Now, I have long boasted that I can differentiate - without a doubt – true Coke.
Try to pass off let’s say (shudder) DIET Coke, or even worse, that-other-drink-that-must-not-be-named, and I’ll call you out.
Today, my friends, my seasoned taste buds were put to the ultimate test.
My boyfriend knows of my recent task to blog about Coke. In an attempt to give me something to blog about and to have a little fun, he created an experiment.
First, I had to sit in a chair with my eyes closed. This in itself was an almost impossible task considering he told me it had to do with Coke, and even more difficult when I heard the “chek-chhhh” but did not get to do the “Gulp! Gulp! Gulp! Ahhhh!”
So, there I am with my eyes closed, waiting. I can hear Coke all around me and then I am allowed to open my eyes. He hands me two red cups filled with what looks like Coke.
I take both of them and he says, “taste them.”
Insert background information:
While at Central Market the other day, my boyfriend saw a massive bottle of Coke. He said to himself, “hmm. That looks suspiciously like the Coke bottles they have in Mexico. I wonder if it is the Coke from Mexico. Yes, yes it is the Coke from Mexico! I will get some and do an experiment with Kennedy…”
Resume experiment:
So, there I am, tasting two very similar Cokes. But I know there is a catch. With my killer Coke instincts I know there is an imposter among us. I taste. And I taste. And I taste some more (it was delicious) and finally he asks me, “which one do you like better?”
Moment of truth. I know I have to answer correctly – my reputation is hanging in the balance. I point to cup number one and…
Muah ha ha. Right on the nose! From my careful observation I detected a slight difference between Cokes A and B. Coke A was bubbly, crisp and a tad more refreshing. Coke B was a little sweeter and not as fizzy. As it turns out, Coke B was the imposter – sent all the way from Mexico and made with real sugar!
Nice try Coke from Mexico, nice try.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Kennedy's View of Coke 101
Hello and Welcome to all my fellow Coke enthusiasts! My name is Kennedy and I am addicted to Coke.
Coca Cola that is.
And pretty much everything about the brand.
I love the logo.
I love the polar bear commercials.
I know Christmas is coming when Santa is on my can.
I believe a Coke makes everything better and having one every day is not such a bad way to live.
Do you have a headache? Have a Coke.
Stomach hurts? Have a Coke.
Bad paper cut? Have a Coke.
OK, maybe that last one was a stretch, but you get my drift!
In my family, we all have one Coke a day. Some of you would call that being addicted. To those of you who say that, I reply: “why yes, yes it is.” I’m not hiding this fact. In fact, I am embracing it. Hey, if you’re going to be addicted to something, it might as well be the charming carbonation, the beautiful bubbles, and the tantalizing taste, right?
Now, before we go any further we need to get a few things straight. This is not a blog for Pepsi lovers. Or even those of you out there that claim there is no difference between the two.
False.
There is a difference. One is delicious, the other – an insult to the cola family.
Are you still unsure if you fall into this category? Let me help. With this one question test, you will be able to know for sure if this is the site for you.
Question: Has the following situation ever happened to you?
Waiter: What can I get you to drink?
You: Coke, please.
Waiter: Is Pepsi OK?
You: No. It’s not. I’ll have tea.
If you answer YES! This has TOTALLY happened to me, then Congrats! You have found a new cyber home.
With this blog I hope to share with you my love for Coke! There is so much history, so much culture, so many amazing advertising campaigns – basically so much Coke love to share with the world that I take this as my personal responsibility to give the public what they need!
Kennedy, how on earth are you going to do that? Well, I don’t want to give anything away just yet, but to wet your whistle and to give you a little taste of what is to come I will tell you this – it’s going to be exciting! There are so many things to do with Coke! Recipes that use Coke, the amazing history of the brand, and fun facts – I have to say my mouth is watering just thinking about it!
So friends, I hope you are as excited about this little project as I am! We are going to have a great time, so until we talk again, I will leave you with a message from the site’s inspiration:
Open Happiness. Have a Coke.
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