This is a throw down, a show down: CBC Hip Hop Summit

I find it mind boggling how few views are recorded on Youtube for the CBC Hip Hop summit.  If you like Canadian hip hop check it out:

http://www.youtube.com/user/cbcradio3#p/c/6041CECF11F80E34

Bottle Redemption Fraud

I remember studying bottle redemption regulations for an environmental economics class several years ago.  If I recall the research, the higher a refund, the more likely it is that a bottle will be recycled.

I recall the professor and I jokes about the incentive that exists to bring bottles to a jurisdiction that provides a higher payout for returned bottles – referencing the Seinfeld episode where characters used a mail truck to effectively take advantage of higher refunds in a neighboring state.

I came across an article today about some folks who got busted for allegedly taking advantage of this sort of scheme in Maine.  Apparently this is a type of fraud – and three people were just charged for the first time in the state for trying to cash in out of state bottles.

If you’re an economics nerd wanting to read about this failed attempt at arbitrage or just want to see one of the other flaws in Kramer and Newman’s plan follow the link: http://www.newson6.com/Global/story.asp?S=14013813

Neat musical experiments

I feel like I have failed for not knowing about The Evolution Control Committee until now. Their musical experiments mash up music and clips from various media to make humorous tunes.

Awesome ad heats bus riders

Caribou Coffee in Minnesota has a neat advertising gimmick going in Minnesota. To promote their hot breakfast sandwiches, the company has converted a bus shelter to look like an over, with a heating element to keep bus riders warm while they wait for their ride.

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2011/01/bus-commuters-warm-up-hot-breakfast-ad-caribou.php

Celebrity endorsements not that useful

Advertising Age published an article today about the relative lack of effectiveness of advertisements with celebrities compared to non-celebrity ads.  The article discusses a study that showed Nike missed the mark with Tiger Woods’ come-back advertisement.

The article suggests that just because an ad is popular or memorable, it doesn’t mean that the brand message is being effectively communicated.  The writer explains that a poorly designed ad isn’t cured by simply sticking a celebrity in there.

Cell phone ban & road safety

Jalopnik has published a post questioning the logic of cell phone driving bans.  One point made was: “…as cellphone use has gone up, crashes have continued to decline.”

Also:

“…economists offer three possible takes. People who start talking while driving become more cautious. People who act like jackholes behind the wheel with a cellphone will act the same without one. And although cellphones clearly distract some drivers, they may also help other drivers stay alert.”

Bike Helmet with cell phone headset

Awesome.  For all my business biking needs.