Those clever people who came up with the “Got Milk?” campaign, seem to have egg on their faces instead of the popular milk mustache. The group is known as The California Milk Processor Board, which recently came up with a new ad campaign expounding the virtues of milk in aiding the effects of PMS.
But wait. They didn’t just say “milk does PMS good.” No, they tried to be comedians and ended up leaving a bad taste in some people’s mouths. Bad taste + milk. Doesn’t really seem like a great strategy.
The Board created a website entitled “Everything I do is wrong,” and posted pics of mournful men holding out milk as if it were a peace offering.
To some, it portrayed men as the “real” sufferers of PMS. The Board said it was poking fun at men, but women, who actually suffer from the pain, discomfort, and mood swings associated with premenstrual syndrome, may not particularly enjoy being painted as crazy people or monsters. I mean, those guys looked pretty scared, and hey, everything they do is wrong, right?
Premenstrual syndrome is a very real issue faced by many women. Some common symptoms include cramping, headache, backache, tenderness, bloating, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and of course the catchall irritability.
Perhaps the worst part is that milk is not really some miracle cure for PMS, and certainly not in and of itself.
The ad campaign was considered humorous by some, but many found it tacky or even offensive. But alas, no publicity is the only bad publicity, so although the ad has been canceled its creators are still getting some mileage out of it.
The “Everything I do is wrong” site has now been changed to “Got Discussion?” if you’d like to see what all the fuss is about. See what you think and feel free to comment below.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Video Games: The Stigma of Gaming
There are very strong opinions about video games. Phrases like video game addiction are thrown around a lot. While there are cases of it, to be sure, the general idea of it tends to give gamers a bad name.
Whether you do console games or play on the computer, moderation in gaming is of course important. Video games can be rather addicting, and no gamer really denies that. The question is whether or not it is a true "addiction" for most players. It can be, in extreme cases, but not everyone who chooses a video game as his or her hobby is an "addict."
If you think about it, playing an MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role playing game) like World of Warcraft or Rift is no worse than watching TV. In fact, TV is probably worse in some cases, because it tends to be mindless entertainment. We've all heard parents say, "Turn off that TV before your mind turns to mush!"
Many watch TV for just as long or longer than their counterparts play video games, yet not every TV watcher is considered a couch potato. So, why the stereotypical stigma for gamers?
Video games are interactive, and most require at least some thought and effort. MMORPGs also have the added benefit of social interaction with other players (not that every interaction is socially acceptable, mind you, as some people become internet tough guys when they can hide behind a computer). There are however, many friendships made online.
Games have also been shown to increase hand-eye-coordination and video games that require a good deal of in-depth character progression also require critical thinking, problem solving, organization, team play, strategy, and math, for success.
TV only requires you to stare at the screen in most cases.
There are certainly negative aspects of gaming, but it seems that too often people pounce on those and ignore anything positive.
It is easy to get sucked in and to spend too much time playing, but it is each individual's responsibility to keep things in perspective. As with anything else, moderation is the key. No one wants to become (or see anyone else become) a gamer horror story. It's a matter of common sense and keeping priorities in order.
Whether you do console games or play on the computer, moderation in gaming is of course important. Video games can be rather addicting, and no gamer really denies that. The question is whether or not it is a true "addiction" for most players. It can be, in extreme cases, but not everyone who chooses a video game as his or her hobby is an "addict."
If you think about it, playing an MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role playing game) like World of Warcraft or Rift is no worse than watching TV. In fact, TV is probably worse in some cases, because it tends to be mindless entertainment. We've all heard parents say, "Turn off that TV before your mind turns to mush!"
Many watch TV for just as long or longer than their counterparts play video games, yet not every TV watcher is considered a couch potato. So, why the stereotypical stigma for gamers?
Video games are interactive, and most require at least some thought and effort. MMORPGs also have the added benefit of social interaction with other players (not that every interaction is socially acceptable, mind you, as some people become internet tough guys when they can hide behind a computer). There are however, many friendships made online.
Games have also been shown to increase hand-eye-coordination and video games that require a good deal of in-depth character progression also require critical thinking, problem solving, organization, team play, strategy, and math, for success.
TV only requires you to stare at the screen in most cases.
There are certainly negative aspects of gaming, but it seems that too often people pounce on those and ignore anything positive.
It is easy to get sucked in and to spend too much time playing, but it is each individual's responsibility to keep things in perspective. As with anything else, moderation is the key. No one wants to become (or see anyone else become) a gamer horror story. It's a matter of common sense and keeping priorities in order.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Invisible Children
Children abducted in the night, carried off to be abused and forced into becoming militia soldiers? Trudging miles after mile, scared, hungry, and killed if they try to escape. Bad fiction?
In Uganda, this is apparently a very real fear for children. Stories from some who have lived to tell of their ordeal are now being heard by the United Nations. The UN doesn’t have a great track record when it comes to atrocities, but yeah, they’ve “issued a statement.” Oh, boy.
Wonder why we haven't heard more about this?
There is a group, or more accurately a movement, trying to get the word out and put an end to this injustice. You can learn more at InvisibleChildren.com. There are videos and news items to help you get informed. They plan to take to the streets of the capital June 22-23 and lobby US “leaders.”
This organization was recently featured on Oprah. It sounds promising (still, I urge everyone to research any organization thoroughly for themselves before joining or donating).
In Uganda, this is apparently a very real fear for children. Stories from some who have lived to tell of their ordeal are now being heard by the United Nations. The UN doesn’t have a great track record when it comes to atrocities, but yeah, they’ve “issued a statement.” Oh, boy.
Wonder why we haven't heard more about this?
There is a group, or more accurately a movement, trying to get the word out and put an end to this injustice. You can learn more at InvisibleChildren.com. There are videos and news items to help you get informed. They plan to take to the streets of the capital June 22-23 and lobby US “leaders.”
This organization was recently featured on Oprah. It sounds promising (still, I urge everyone to research any organization thoroughly for themselves before joining or donating).
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Stupid Government Tricks? Minting New Pennies
You’ve heard of Stupid Pet Tricks on Letterman. Well, at least those can be entertaining. Stupid government tricks aren’t generally that amusing.
I think Ron White said it best, “You can’t fix stupid.” While he may not have been talking about government, the sentiment certainly applies. With the economy in the crapper, the government in its infinite wisdom has decided we need new commemorative pennies.
Pennies. You know, the coins people complain about, or toss in little dishes near cash registers?
Well, apparently, there are four new designs to give tribute to old Honest Abe. I mean, I’ve got nothing against Abe Lincoln, but come on. We needed to spend God knows how much money to have little log cabins on the back of copper coins that some people actually throw in the trash? Coin collectors will probably enjoy them but damn (read more about the new designs at LA Times)...
What a fantastic way to spend our tax dollars, right?
Not so much, if you ask me.
But, hey, look something new and shiny! Just don't look at what's really going on in your world...
I think Ron White said it best, “You can’t fix stupid.” While he may not have been talking about government, the sentiment certainly applies. With the economy in the crapper, the government in its infinite wisdom has decided we need new commemorative pennies.
Pennies. You know, the coins people complain about, or toss in little dishes near cash registers?
Well, apparently, there are four new designs to give tribute to old Honest Abe. I mean, I’ve got nothing against Abe Lincoln, but come on. We needed to spend God knows how much money to have little log cabins on the back of copper coins that some people actually throw in the trash? Coin collectors will probably enjoy them but damn (read more about the new designs at LA Times)...
What a fantastic way to spend our tax dollars, right?
Not so much, if you ask me.
But, hey, look something new and shiny! Just don't look at what's really going on in your world...
Monday, April 13, 2009
One-sided Tolerance
Hmmm... One-sided tolerance. Well, that’s an oxymoron for sure but all too prevalent nonetheless. Tolerance basically means tolerating that with which one does not agree. So, how can it be one-sided? I guess it depends on who you are. Just like “redneck” jokes are fine and dandy, yet other jokes based on stereotype are politically incorrect.
Yesterday was Easter. Sure, people did the egg hunt thing and the typical stuff, probably ate too much, and had some time to enjoy the family. Yet, some people were also celebrating the biggest holiday in regard to their beliefs. Jesus having died on the cross and risen from the grave, so that our sins could be forgiven. Obviously, a huge day for Christians.
Yet, while many people were being oh so careful not to offend those who don’t share those beliefs, some went out of their way to mock believers. Don't you love it when the ones who are the first to scream intolerance turn around and attack someone else? Some truly disgusting jokes and comments were made. When asked to tone it down, one person in a chat said, “It’s not disrespectful; it's just Christians.”
I guess that makes it okay. You know, since it’s only those people.
I’m not an easily offended type. I really don’t do politically correct. But, if you’re going to preach tolerance, then it’s probably a good idea to actually be tolerant… especially of those you don’t agree with... isn’t that the point?
Yesterday was Easter. Sure, people did the egg hunt thing and the typical stuff, probably ate too much, and had some time to enjoy the family. Yet, some people were also celebrating the biggest holiday in regard to their beliefs. Jesus having died on the cross and risen from the grave, so that our sins could be forgiven. Obviously, a huge day for Christians.
Yet, while many people were being oh so careful not to offend those who don’t share those beliefs, some went out of their way to mock believers. Don't you love it when the ones who are the first to scream intolerance turn around and attack someone else? Some truly disgusting jokes and comments were made. When asked to tone it down, one person in a chat said, “It’s not disrespectful; it's just Christians.”
I guess that makes it okay. You know, since it’s only those people.
I’m not an easily offended type. I really don’t do politically correct. But, if you’re going to preach tolerance, then it’s probably a good idea to actually be tolerant… especially of those you don’t agree with... isn’t that the point?
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Back away from the Pistachios
Not another one! It's scary to think that our food supply is so vulnerable...
Not long ago it was peanuts; now it’s pistachios. Fortunately, in this case, it appears that those involved are working to react appropriately to potential contamination issues.
Risking Lives for Peanuts?
The peanut salmonella outbreak quickly caused outrage. It was alleged that serious sanitation issues were neglected and perhaps covered up, that products may have been knowingly sold despite contamination.
I can’t think of a punishment horrible enough for anyone (if proven) to have risked the lives of others just to make a buck.
Better Safe than Sorry
At this time, the source of possible salmonella contamination concerning pistachios is still being tracked. The FDA has advised all sources “not to sell or serve any pistachios or pistachio-containing products until the source of the pistachios can be determined.”
It may be best to avoid pistachio nuts or other products until more information is available, including previously purchased products.
While my faith in the FDA's ability to protect our food supply doesn't exactly make me rest easy, there is more information available at the FDA Website that may prove useful.
Not long ago it was peanuts; now it’s pistachios. Fortunately, in this case, it appears that those involved are working to react appropriately to potential contamination issues.
Risking Lives for Peanuts?
The peanut salmonella outbreak quickly caused outrage. It was alleged that serious sanitation issues were neglected and perhaps covered up, that products may have been knowingly sold despite contamination.
I can’t think of a punishment horrible enough for anyone (if proven) to have risked the lives of others just to make a buck.
Better Safe than Sorry
At this time, the source of possible salmonella contamination concerning pistachios is still being tracked. The FDA has advised all sources “not to sell or serve any pistachios or pistachio-containing products until the source of the pistachios can be determined.”
It may be best to avoid pistachio nuts or other products until more information is available, including previously purchased products.
While my faith in the FDA's ability to protect our food supply doesn't exactly make me rest easy, there is more information available at the FDA Website that may prove useful.
Friday, April 3, 2009
One Day at a Time
It doesn’t really matter from which source you have learned this principle, if you can learn to follow it. Live each day as it comes. Today is a good day.
You woke up, didn’t you? Then it’s good.
This simple yet at the same time profound bit of wisdom can be found in many sources including the Bible and various 12 step programs for addiction. It’s just common sense. This isn’t to say go crazy each day living it like it’s your last, yet if we learned to focus more on the here and now, we’d be happier and more relaxed.
Of course, some planning for the future is required. Yet, when we spend all of our time worrying about tomorrow and next week and next year, today passes by without living it to its full potential.
Today is a good day.
It might not be perfect; in fact, there may be many not so good things going on in a single day. However, there is something good about this day and we’d all be better off if we spent more time enjoying the good parts of life instead of letting stress take over. Worrying about things doesn’t make problems go away, it only compounds them.
Live your life… today.
You woke up, didn’t you? Then it’s good.
This simple yet at the same time profound bit of wisdom can be found in many sources including the Bible and various 12 step programs for addiction. It’s just common sense. This isn’t to say go crazy each day living it like it’s your last, yet if we learned to focus more on the here and now, we’d be happier and more relaxed.
Of course, some planning for the future is required. Yet, when we spend all of our time worrying about tomorrow and next week and next year, today passes by without living it to its full potential.
Today is a good day.
It might not be perfect; in fact, there may be many not so good things going on in a single day. However, there is something good about this day and we’d all be better off if we spent more time enjoying the good parts of life instead of letting stress take over. Worrying about things doesn’t make problems go away, it only compounds them.
Live your life… today.
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