FORTUNE Magazine declares Augusta media innovative marketers of the year

Fortune Magazine’s January issue hit newsstands with some big news for area advertising professionals.

Augusta’s local television advertising industry is being recognized for its innovative approach to marketing vehicles and pawn services.

In the announcement, FORTUNE Magazine editor at large Patricia Sellers declares Augusta’s “pimp, ho and rap” marketing strategy to be the worldwide trend of the future.

“Much like the man in the car commercial said ‘selection like this don’t happen often,’ “Sellers said, “innovative marketing like these commercials doesn’t come along very often.

“We are proud to bestow this honor on advertisers that clearly know what it takes to get their message across, in an era where audiences are getting more and more difficult to reach.”

Augusta Ad Federation President Scott Giboney said he was surprised to hear the area received the recognition, especially when he found out which commercials were honored.

“Our annual Addy Awards recognize the hard work and dedication of Augusta’s advertising professionals,” Giboney said, “but I didn’t expect the individuals involved with these commercials to be recognized.”

Giboney said he doesn’t mind some of what he sees, but questions the use of pimp imagery for the purpose of selling cars.

“In fairness, I’m a big fan of the United Loan and Firearms commercials. That guy’s awesome,” Giboney said. “But women have been posing in front of cars for decades, and I don’t think the questionably-dressed man in the commercial is necessarily the right way to market vehicles.

“It’s in poor taste at best and downright offensive at worst.”

Evans resident Alicia Davidson said she doesn’t like the direction things are headed.

“I’m already afraid to turn on the television during election season,” Davidson said, “now I’m looking at a future where commercials featuring rap music and pimps will be the rule rather than the exception.”

Note: This column is in no way an attempt to reflect reality or provide reasonable commentary. And no, FORTUNE Magazine didn't really do this, and Mr. Giboney didn't provide this commentary, and I outright made up Alicia Davidson. Satire is what it is.

SEE THE VIDEO

Augusta Express Commercial:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=s19GKC4s9d4

United Loan and Firearms Commercial:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXR-y1RxVk4