NEW: The GistTimes

For a work-out, just sit on the Joba
Today's Wallstreet Journal published an article discussing the Joba. The Joba is described as a "saddle like device" and simulates horseback riding. It's apparently a hot trend in Japan and quickly making its way to the US. After reading this article, i couldn't help but laugh. Ah, who wants to ride a fake horse. And what kind of work out is this, are you kidding me! The Joba will retail for approximately $700. Though way cheaper than a horse, i have no desire to sit in my living room, simulating a ride. Incase you're interested, the Joba, though not good for calories, tones muscles, improves posture and increases metabolism, according to studies by Matsushita and a handful of universities. Best of all, from what i've read, you won't have to put down your favorite beverage to get this work-out. In my opinion, Joba is great if you're older and can't really do too much else. Otherwise- Get off your butt!

Nintendo's Wii will hit the shelves on Nov. 19. This by itself isn't Gist worthy, however, the fact that they released this info days after Sony announced they will be scaling back their launch, makes me wonder....is Nintendo taunting Sony - Nah na nah...


Since Tivo has taken over, consumers are watching more tv than ever. They are also watching less and less commercials - oh the irony. My question is, where were the advertisers when Tivo was launching? Would have been good for them to talk. I'm sure Tivo could have figured out a way to offset the cost of the Tivo, by weaving in some sort of banner Ads or something. But i digress. Just found out that CW (UPN + WB, for those not caught up) will try something called "content wrapping" to try to rescue it's dwindling ad revenue. In place of 30-second ads, some of the commercial breaks will feature a mini-magazine show, about two minutes long, called CWH, about the latest in fashion and pop culture. This will launch during the new season of America's Next Top Model.
CWH represents a new kind of TV advertisement, one that "endeavors to entertain while subtly promoting a product". I don't know how subtle a two minute long segment with obvious product sponsors can be, but we'll see. Sorry CW, i will probably skip those too. Plain and simple, you're going to have to get disruptive and annoying to get the attention of Tivo users. They own them for a reason.


Disney launching 'The Year of a Million Dreams' campaign.

Starting Oct. 1, Disney cast members will be empowered to grant wishes big and small to guests - including free dining, ticket upgrades, FastPasses that allow entry into major attractions, shopping sprees and opportunities to travel the world to be grand marshal at parades in Disney parks globally. Starting in January, families visiting the park will be chosen at random to stay atop Cinderella's Castle in Disney's first-ever castle suite. Talk about empowering your employees - Disney just took it to whole other level.


The Latino Intelligence Report (Trend Central)

First off, can you believe there is such a report in existence? I've highlighted some of the interesting points below for your edification.

• Though Latinos prefer to describe themselves as “Hispanic,” there is an increase in wanting to also be seen as “American.”
• Latinos are more likely than non-Latinos to purchase sneakers, magazines, and concert tickets.
• Young Latinos purchase many items in a typical year and tend to be bigger shoppers than their non-Latino counterparts.
  
  

Now playing: Waiting on the world to change (John Mayer)