The last few days have seen the high-alert mentality around the 2010 Olympics go into a mode that only be called bizarre. B.C. entrepreneur Wil Tarnasky was taken to task by Canadian Olympic Committee for an image on his heat product,Toasterz. Apparently, the flame on the packet looks altogether too much like the flame on the Olympic torch. This story sure makes it look as though these ad-police have altogether too much time on their hands.
And then, earlier today, American broadcaster Amy Goodman was detained at the Canadian border. Although she was scheduled to speak in Vancouver about health care, border guards apparently challenged her on whether she was going to talk about the Olympics.
If she hadn't planned on doing so, you can bet she will now, and likely will continue to do so once she gets home to her radio show, "Democracy Now!"
Today it was also reported that the City of Vancouver has, as a result of public pressure, backed down on some of its bylaws controlling protest during the Olympics.
Although I try to make a point of not picturing or promoting brand-name products, I'm wondering how much longer I'll be permitted to eat my favourite brand of yogourt.
7 comments:
A very astute title - and question that resonates beyond the 2010 Olympic time frame.
Yes, it will be interesting to see just how many of the security measures (especially all those cameras being installed downtown) will remain in place after the circus leaves town.
good yogurt question! that's my favourite brand too. how ridiculous it all is
oops. that's me above.
Kimmy
The absolutely craziest one is the stack of ecstasy tabs they seized yesterday -- imprinted with the Rings. Which fine d'you suppose will be greater -- the one for possessing the drug, or the one for infringing on the precious Olympic trademark?
as you've often said, Boo-limpics
Kimmy
The latest on this branding idiocy is over Lululemon's newest, "Cool Sporting Event That Takes Place in British Columbia Between 2009 and 2011 Edition" -- a marketing ploy that's taken flak from the almighty Vanoc.
Letter in today's paper pointed out that Lululemon is locally owned, employs Canadians and even pays local taxes -- while the Bay's maple-leaf mitts are made in China. Kerplunk. So much for helping local businesses.
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