The Woodshed

The day the digital drought broke. Thanks to Net#work BBDO and digital design agency Gloo, we have another Loerie Grand Prix awarded to digital to celebrate as an industry. Loerie's 2008 was the bomb. Nothing was spared. The service, the entertainment, the freekin' sound system! and even the pop-up loo's had dedicated cleaners after every visit. From cheerleaders, to Reddy D, to pole dancers, to a massive Philharmonic Orchastra, to Madamé Zingara diva's ... I even met The Parlotone's and Sonia Herald (but not at the same time mind you ... ). The audio visual work was outstanding, and could have been entered on it's own merits. From a digital perspective, I thought the number of entries was well up from last year - a good sign. The process was relatively uncomplicated and each jury member judged remotely - making it possible to judge the entries and keep your day routine (more or less - you find yourself viewing work in the wee hours for a couple of days). IMHO ...

After spending a grueling 3 weeks judging over 220 digital entries I'm finally sitting at the Cape Town International Airport enroute to the sleepy town of Margate. This year there was some outstanding work, although I could count them on one hand. There's still much room for improvement overall. Bit more on that later. I believe we have secured a few VIP tickets for the Loeries this year and I'm looking forward to the treatment, which I believe is outstanding. Tonights spotlight falls on the print and design industries. It should be a good show. Tomorrow evening is dedicated to television, radio and the digital industry - which is my area of interest. Hope I've packed enough outfits. If all go's well I will be posting my views on the whole process, from the judging through to the event itself and a comment or two on the lucky ones who did the shake and take.

Happy Birthday Madiba. We are deeply blessed to have had you hold our hand and guide us all to freedom with your immeasurable love and compassion for humanity. You remain an icon for all leaders around the world. And you're ours. The Woodshed wishes you a very happy 90th birthday ...