BILLJACKSON.ORG

Always happy to answer questions about me and the site. I have been a fervent collector of questions for the past couple of months so I thought I’d post some of those that have been emailed, sent via audio-video file, or asked in public.

1. What kind of motorcycle do you ride?

A Yamaha V-Star 1100 Silverado

2. What is the deal with those sunglasses? (referring to my Ray-Ban Wayfarers)

I have worn Ray-Bans since 1986. They have gone out of style, some back in, gone back out, and are now coming back in. They are one of the notable characteristics that stand out about my appearance. The full story will be revealed in the first video edition of the Red Sneaker Diaries.

3. Why did you leave the air on Eagle 98.1?

Sometimes an employee and an employer find themselves on different paths. This was the case in the spring of 2005. I still have wonderful relationships with Guaranty Broadcasting and sincerely hope they have continued success.

4. Do you believe in global warning?

You had to go there, didn’t you? Which term is it? Global Warming or the new buzz words – Climate Change? Does the Globe Warm? Yes. Does the Globe Cool? Yes. Does the climate change? Yes. Does man exacerbate the warming, cooling, or change? No. I am not going to get into a political diatribe here. I will say that the carbon credit exchange and the purchasing of carbon offsets is the biggest scam that has somehow excused those that preach the message of global warming/climate change. Common sense says that purchasing a carbon offset does not stop the carbon you produce from going into the air. (no but it offsets the carbon by investing in planting trees and other carbon reducing methods) If you didn’t produce the carbon in the first place, you wouldn’t need the offset. It is hypocrisy at its finest. Enough on this. Maybe a topic for an RSD.

5. Your website lists Dennis Miller as one of your idols. What do you think of him doing a radio show now?

Dennis Miller is one of my favorite comedians. He is a very intelligent, hard working, and thought provoking individual who also is not for everyone. His keen wit requires that you be well versed in politics, pop culture, and history. If you don’t have those mental faculties, you will never get his humor. I love his radio show. He sounds different than the typical talk radio host. He doesn’t sound “slick” and polished. To me, that is refreshing. There is nothing wrong with what Beck, Limbaugh, Hanity, Boortz, or anyone else does. I just think it is refreshing. Will it last? Who knows. He won’t be near as big as a Rush, Sean, Glenn, or Neil… but he’ll do just fine. I love listening to him. That’s just my own personal taste. I could be wrong… 

6. Re you going back on the radio anywhere?

Soon? No. Ever? Maybe. When. I have no idea. I have filled in on a couple of talk shows for friends in the business and provide my talents for some stations in states other than Louisiana. Will I go on here in Baton Rouge again? I don’t think so.

7. What is your single greatest accomplishment?

Successfully learning to use cutlery? I have no idea.

8. Are you interested in any extreme sports?

I would love to sky dive and bungee jump.

9. What is your favorite website?

Apple.com

10. What was it like meeting so many famous people?

I am not, nor have I ever been, one who is awed by celebrity. As far as I am concerned, they put on underwear every morning too. They have found something that has made them successful. I am happy for them.

Don’t sweat the petty stuff, pet the sweaty stuff, or so the expression reads. I just can not let this one pass any longer. Why must event planners in college athletics insist on creating new events and putting the word “classic” in the name of the event? It is as bad as calling something a “First Annual” bla bla bla. It can’t be an annual event until a year has passed since the first one occurred. There is no such think as an “instant classic.” Something truly “classic” has be tried, tested, and loved by many.

I bring this up because on the LSUSports.net website was a banner ad for basketball event called the “84 Lumber Katrina Relief Basketball Classic.” No wonder education institutions in Louisiana are made fun of. Way to miss the easy lay-up there guys…

Let’s say you think of the word classic to mean a creation of the highest excellence. How can you know it is such a creation before the event has even taken place. It is nothing more than marketing symbolism over substance. While the intent for holding the event may be noble, and I stress “may be,” this is mediocre at its finest. Then again, would you expect anything more for LSU Sports Properties? I have written about their feeble marketing efforts before. Do you remember the “sponsoring” of the student section at football games? Yeah.. Jack in the box, official sponsor of the student section at football games. Note that it was the “official” sponsor. I am sure they’re out trying their most mediocre to see an unofficial sponsor.

This then begs the question, is there anyone at 84 Lumber that would recognized that their brand is being associated with a cheap marketing ploy? Does anyone at 84 Lumber care that their brand is being associated with a cheap marketing ploy that references one of the largest natural disasters in United States history? Or, is everyone at 84 Lumber so blinded by the purple and gold that just being associated with LSU is a good thing?

I am reminded of two major companies that pulled marketing campaigns after 9/11 because of the possible inferences that could e made to the attacks. Bud Light and Coke yanked ad campaigns right after the attacks. You all know the “real men of genus” radio commercials that air even now, don;t you? Do you also remember that they were originally called Real American Heroes? Yanked and redone after 9/11. Coke had billboards up all over the country that had the phrase “Coke is Life.” Yanked after 9/11.

I blame both parties but am embarrassed by LSU allowing this to go on. I will continue to ponder this and begin the creative process for a cheap marketing edition of the Red Sneaker Diaries for you to view in the near future.

If you have ever chatted ina chat room on the internet, this is going to kill you. I stumbled upon this video on YouTube and could not help but post it for you to see. It is a bit long, but you will crack up. It is very well produced and is just hilarious.

Enjoy.

Ge2FHDf_L78

I’ve encountered lots of speculation in the early hours since the Sugar Bowl announcement was made. Let’s put it to a vote. Personally, I think with LSU’s talent, there is little that can stop as LSU victory over an overrated Notre Dame. Then again, who knows what “touchdown Jesus” has planned for that fateful day in Jan.

Vote Early! Vote Often!