Archive for September, 2010

Social Media and Techonology: More than a Marketing Tool

Tuesday, September 28th, 2010

Twitter, Facebook and technology have proven their true value today for disseminating information and connecting people.  Earlier this morning, there was a shooting at The University of Texas at Austin.  In addition to sirens sounding off throughout campus, students were immediately notified via e-mail and an emergency text message system.

The text message system goes out to about 43,000 people on campus, which students can sign up for.  As the message was being spread via text, people were using social networks like Facebook and Twitter to get the word out to all their friends and family.

UT President Bill Powers even mentioned in his news conference that police were able to locate and secure students inside buildings because of these social networks.

Some of the tweets and Facebook postings from this morning from both students and faculty.

@HueyFischer tweeted “I’m in class. We are safe. Still on lockdown. God bless UT. (@ Will C. Hogg Building”

jessandrew

Let’s not underestimate the power of social networks and technology.

No slowing down for the Barrett-Jackson auction machine

Saturday, September 25th, 2010

Barrett-Jackson Auction Company wrapped up day two of its 3rd Annual Las Vegas Auction on Friday with bidding lasting late into the evening.  Charity was on the minds of hundreds of car enthusiasts as the top sellers benefitted foundations from across the country.

Camaro UFC

The top car of the day was a 2010 limited edition UFC Chevrolet Camaro custom coupe from Lot #392.  Shannon Allen, a UFC fan and car enthusiast took home the Camaro for $350,000 to benefit fallen troops and their families.  Chuck Liddell, UFC hall of famer, surprised the crowd when he stepped out of the passenger seat and Dana White, president of UFC, spoke a few words via video about the special meaning of the car prior to its entrance on the block.  One hundred percent of the proceeds benefit the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, which was founded to support families of military personnel lost in service and for those veterans severely wounded.

2011 Camaro

The second highest bid of the day was also a charity car.  YMCA of Southern Nevada received proceeds from Lot #396, a production number two 2011 Chevrolet Camaro.  The bidder will have the opportunity to order the color, engine, transmission, trim and factory installed equipment.  Greg Heinrich of Fairway Chevrolet in Las Vegas donated the vehicle for the auction.

Corvette

A pair of 1981 Chevrolet Corvettes added to the energy of the auction arena.  After competitive bidding for the two historic GM vehicles, which were also charity cars, the highest bidder paid $300,000 and immediately donated the ‘Vettes back to the foundation.  Lot #373 was the first ‘Vette off the assembly line in Bowling Green, Ky, June 1, 1981.  Its partner, a Lot #373.1, was the last built at the legendary St. Louis factory before the doors closed on July 31, 1981.

The Bidding has Begun…Do I hear…

Friday, September 24th, 2010

dodge charger race car

Driven by Kasey Kahne at road courses in Sonoma and Watkins Glen, the 2009 #9 Budweiser NASCAR Sprint Cup Dodge Charger (Lot #84) was yesterday’s top seller fetching $100,000 for the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA).  The charity car has a 358cid engine that produces up to 830 horsepower.

Other top sellers from yesterday include:

  • Lot #91 – 1933 Chevrolet Deluxe Two Door Coupe – $77,000
  • Lot #7600 – 1957 Chevrolet 150 Custom Sedan – $63,800
  • Lot #74 – 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Coupe – $60,500
  • Lot  #86.1 – 1959 Chevrolet Apache Fleetside Pickup – $52,800

Tomorrow’s auction will feature some of the hottest cars around.  Stay tuned to see if a 2005 Ford Mustang FR500C racecar (Lot #668) donated by actor Patrick Dempsey turns up the heat like “McSteamy” did on yesterday’s season premier.

dempsey race car

Also to come is the crown jewel of exotics-the 2008 Bugatti Veyron (Lot #658).  It is number 80 out of 300 produced and was the fastest production car around the world in 2008.

IMG_1735

Be sure to check out tomorrow’s results!

Half Price Books Spurs the Green Movement in North Texas

Wednesday, September 22nd, 2010

The “going green” movement is picking up speed in North Texas with its first electric vehicle charging station, installed at the Half Price Books located off Northwest Highway.  Shoppers will be able to roll up and reboot their car for free while they stroll through the store.

Because chargers have been viewed traditionally as being fairly slow, the idea is to change consumers’ perception and attitude toward refueling electric vehicles. Rather than thinking it’s a waste of time, they can feel like they’re multitasking, especially since time is a scarce resource these days.

This is a smart business and PR strategy for Half Price Books because they are starting a trend that will keep them at the forefront of their industry.  With this installation, they will drive traffic to their location, which can lead them to increased sales, all while maintaining and continuing to promote their “earthy” image.

The charging station, which has two spaces for cars, will send text messages to drivers about their charging status.

Half Price will let customers use the stations for free until next September, when executives will decide whether to charge.

People will see more electric vehicles in the area as the cars roll in to Texas next year.  Several companies are making electric vehicle announcements this month, as car manufacturers plan electric vehicle displays at this year’s State Fair of Texas.

Read the full story here.