News & Opinion

New Collection Supporting Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation Sells Out in Under 24 Hours    Top Tier Authentics (TTA), transforming how brands, athletes and artists authenticate products and create new consumer experiences, has expanded its partnership with renowned painter and golf trick-shot guru, Coach Rusty. TTA is the exclusive authentication and experience platform for all of Coach Rusty’s artwork.   Every one of Coach Rusty’s original works and prints features TTA’s technology and digital Certificates of Authenticity (COA), offering fans and collectors an entirely new way to engage with their favorite works of art and artist. Each piece includes behind-the-scenes looks into Coach Rusty’s art-making process, the stories and inspirations fueling his art, early access to his latest collections and best prices, and more.   “Top Tier Authentics has entirely changed the way I connect with fans, artists and golf enthusiasts,” said Ryan Rustand (Coach Rusty). “Instead of a mundane paper COA, the TTA Certificate brings each piece to life with interactive, shareable and truly authentic experiences. It’s a major differentiator, and my fans absolutely love it.”   Coach Rusty’s latest work and collaboration with TTA celebrated Arnold Palmer and National Umbrella Day, featuring his signature golf splatter designs alongside Palmer’s iconic umbrella logo. The artwork, including an original piece and 37 limited-edition prints authenticated by TTA, sparked tremendous excitement. Every one of the items sold out in under 24-hours. Proceeds will support the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation.   “Coach Rusty bridges the gap between sports and art in a way we've never seen before,” said Andrew Rosen, Co-founder of Top Tier Authentics. “Our partnership with Coach Rusty showcases how TTA can enhance connections with fans and give each piece of artwork a life and story of its own. It’s an interactive and engaging experience that transcends authenticity.”   “Coach Rusty’s art is not just visually stunning but also tells a compelling story and brings people together. His work and influence extend far beyond the golfing community,” added Dima Azarenko, Co-founder of Top Tier Authentics. “We're thrilled to complement his vision by enabling fans to experience the creative journey behind each piece.”   Coach Rusty’s art blends the same intricate setups, precise timing, and high level of skill and creativity required for his famous golf trick shots.   To date, Coach Rusty has commissioned specialized TTA-authenticated works for athletes, charities, celebrities and brands, such as Jason Day, Travis Matthew, Josh Allen, the Ernie Els Foundation for Autism and many others.   Fans can purchase Coach Rusty’s art or submit forms for custom commission pieces by him here - www.artbycoach.com   About Top Tier Authentics Top Tier Authentics (TTA) has developed the world's first Experiential Authenticity Platform, enabling instant verification of any product, artwork or collectible while powering new and immersive digital experiences, unique benefits, and interactive features.   The simple, turn-key solution can increase the value and enhance the experience of any item – or event – while empowering brands and individuals to connect with consumers, collectors and fans on a deeper level. TTA’s end-to-end platform also enables robust behavioral analytics from every touchpoint to identify key trends and opportunities.   Consumers enjoy an entirely new way to interact with their favorite brands, athletes and artists. This includes behind-the-scenes videos captured in the moment – such as when the signing occurred, the creation of the art, or the story behind the brand, artist or athlete – as well as personalized content, redeemable offers, and exclusive access to community events and activations. TTA gives each product and experience a one-of-a-kind and engaging life of its own, to share with friends and other collectors who hold similar treasures.   To shop the memorabilia collections, visit the TTA Amazon brand store at www.amazon.com/tta  and their eBay Store at www.ebay.com/str/toptierauthentics   Learn more about TTA’s services and technology at https://www.toptierauth.com/  

Viamedia to Command Ad Sales Across Six Principal DMAs for TDS Telecom, Further Strengthening Its Regional Influence   Viamedia, the largest independent advertising rep firm in the U.S., today announced the renewal and expansion of its partnership with TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®). As part of this partnership, Viamedia will represent the advertising sales for TDS video services in its new television markets of Green Bay, Eau Claire, Milwaukee, and Wausau while continuing in its established markets of Madison and Charlotte.   TDS, a subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc., headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, is a rapidly growing technology company that delivers high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services. As a leading communications provider, TDS Telecom offers advanced solutions to a mix of small to mid-sized urban, suburban and rural communities in 32 states, with 1.2 million connections.   “Expanding Viamedia’s tremendously successful partnership with TDS will further benefit local businesses by enhancing the effectiveness and reach of their advertising,” said David Solomon, Viamedia CEO. “TDS has proven to be a great success story in a rapidly changing industry. We are proud to continue our eight-year collaboration, setting new benchmarks for advertising success that benefit advertisers and consumers alike.”   “Viamedia's innovative solutions have been essential for TDS’ content delivery and advertising, particularly as we expand into new television markets including Green Bay, Eau Claire, Milwaukee, and Wausau," said Kristi Ramsey, Director of Content Management at TDS. “Their innovative solutions perfectly complement our vision, driving value for advertisers and a superior experience for viewers in both these new and established markets. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to excellence and innovation in engaging with audiences nationwide.”   About Viamedia Viamedia is the nation’s largest independent champion for video service providers’ advertising needs. The company places over 1 million ads daily in more than 130 zones in 28 states across 60+ markets nationwide, aggregating all types of TV audiences and providing a single point of sale to more than 6,000 local, regional, and national advertisers. It provides a comprehensive portfolio of audience and impression-based local video cross-media advertising solutions that bridge the gap between linear TV and digital programmatic advertising.   Viamedia’s patented, cloud based QTT® platform utilizes a proprietary technology stack and is designed to enable ad campaigns to be more efficient and easier to execute, by utilizing rich data to deliver targeted, dynamic ads to consumers via linear television.   Viamedia offers a complementary suite of impression-based digital products for streaming, mobile, display, email, search, social and more. Headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, the company’s success is built on its people, processes and proprietary software.   For more information, please visit https://viamediatv.com.   About TDS Telecom TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS Telecom/TDS®) delivers high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a mix of rural and suburban communities throughout the U.S. With 1.2 million connections, TDS is a rapidly growing technology company. Powered by fiber-optics and new industry-leading technologies, TDS delivers up to 8 Gigabit internet speeds and offers internet-protocol based TV entertainment solutions along with traditional phone services. TDS also offers businesses VoIP advanced communications solutions, dedicated internet service, data networking, and hosted-managed services. Visit tdstelecom.com.   TDS Telecom, headquartered in Madison, Wis., employs 3,500 people and is a subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. [NYSE: TDS], a Fortune 1000® company. Founded in 1969, Telephone and Data Systems provides wireless, broadband, video and voice; and hosted and managed services to approximately 6 million connections nationwide through its businesses: UScellular, TDS Telecom, and OneNeck IT Solutions. Visit tdsinc.com.

In an era where technology evolves at breakneck speed, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for companies looking to make a mark. As we approach NAB 2024, Bob Gold & Associates (BG&A) has pinpointed several key tech trends that are shaping the future of the broadcasting and media industry. For any company attending or exhibiting, understanding these trends is not just about keeping up; it's about seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges. Here's a look at what to watch for:   5G, Edge and Advanced Connectivity The rollout of 5G networks is ushering in a new era of ultra-fast, reliable connectivity, enabling innovations like never before. This means the ability to stream high-quality video content with extremely low latency, enhancing live events and remote productions. Understanding and leveraging 5G and edge can help broadcasters, media companies, communications service providers (CSPs), and others deliver content more effectively and provide superior experiences to their audiences.   Cloud-based Production and Distribution Cloud technology enables more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective production and distribution workflows. With the ability to collaborate and access content from anywhere, cloud-based solutions are a game-changer for remote teams and decentralized productions. Embracing the cloud can improve agility, reduce costs and make operations more resilient.   AI and Machine Learning Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionizing content creation, distribution and monetization. From automated editing to personalized content recommendations, these technologies offer ways to streamline operations and tailor experiences to individual preferences. Companies that stay ahead in AI will improve efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction and gain a competitive edge in content delivery.   Immersive Experiences Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) are transforming storytelling and audience engagement, offering immersive experiences that were once the stuff of science fiction. This means a golden opportunity to create captivating, interactive content that stands out. Incorporating VR/AR into video services can differentiate a brand, drive engagement and open new revenue streams.   Blockchain and Content Security Blockchain technology is increasingly becoming a vital tool for ensuring content security and intellectual property rights in the digital age. It offers a transparent, immutable ledger for content transactions, enabling creators and distributors to protect and monetize their work more effectively. Understanding blockchain's potential means not only enhancing content security but also exploring new models for content distribution and monetization. Embracing blockchain can help safeguard creations, foster trust with audiences and open up innovative avenues for revenue generation.   Sustainability in Tech Sustainability is becoming a critical consideration in tech, with an increasing focus on eco-friendly production practices and reducing carbon footprints. Adopting sustainable technologies is not just about corporate responsibility; it's also about meeting consumer demand for greener options and future-proofing business operations against regulatory changes.   Engage with BG&A for Unmatched PR Support In today's competitive media landscape, clearly articulating your innovations and their relevance to current trends is crucial for securing visibility and coverage. Our expertise in crafting compelling narratives and executing strategic PR campaigns ensures your message resonates with your target audience, driving engagement and business growth.   As you prepare for NAB 2024, consider how these trends impact your business and how you can leverage them to your advantage. With BG&A as your PR partner, you'll have the support you need to highlight your latest advancements, engage your audience, and truly stand out in a crowded market. Let's make NAB 2024 your most successful event yet.

As the M&E industry advances rapidly, exhibitors gearing up for the innovative world of NAB 2024 are poised at the edge of unparalleled opportunity. With the right approach, this event can be much more than a showcase—it can be a pivotal moment in your brand's journey. But how do you cut through the noise and ensure your message resonates? Having guided 50+ companies through the NAB maze, here are five strategic PR moves designed not just to make an impact at the show, but to echo long after. Craft a Compelling Narrative Your technology isn't just a product; it's a story waiting to be told. Before you step onto the show floor, define what makes your solution unique and why it matters. This narrative should weave through all your communications, from press releases to social media posts, creating a cohesive and memorable brand identity. Do you have someone on your team that can distill complex tech jargon into engaging stories that capture media attention and resonate with your target audience? Leverage Media Relationships The media landscape at NAB is as vast as it is varied. Securing coverage in this crowded space requires more than just sending out press releases. It's about nurturing relationships with journalists and influencers who specialize in your niche. How are you identifying and engaging with targeted media to amplify your message? You want to be sure that your news not only lands but makes a splash. Engage with Influencers and Thought Leaders In today's digital world, influencers and thought leaders can be your most powerful allies. Collaborating with these individuals for panel discussions, interviews, and live demos can significantly extend your reach and credibility. Are you making the most of your strategic partnerships? NAB is the perfect opportunity for your executives to share the stage with industry luminaries and put your company’s innovations in the spotlight. Optimize Digital Presence NAB is not just a physical event; it's a digital phenomenon. An optimized online presence ensures that your brand captures attention both on and off the show floor. From live-tweeting key announcements to hosting virtual tours of your booth, consider crafting a digital engagement strategy that keeps your client’s and prospects connected and interacting, no matter where they are in the world. Post-Show Momentum The end of NAB doesn't mean your PR efforts should wind down. In fact, it's just the beginning. Post-show follow-ups, content marketing and leveraging the buzz created during the event can keep the momentum going strong. What’s your plan for converting post-show enthusiasm into long-term engagement, helping you nurture leads and build lasting relationships with your audience?   The BG&A Difference At Bob Gold & Associates, we understand that NAB 2024 is more than a trade show—it's the perfect chance to elevate your brand in the tech world. Our tailored PR strategies are designed to make every moment count, ensuring you not only shine at the show but continue to glow long afterward.   For tech exhibitors looking to turn opportunities into outcomes, BG&A is your partner in creating buzz, building relationships and driving success. Let’s connect and craft a PR strategy that puts your innovations on the map.

Top Tier Authentics (TTA) is making headlines with a new, groundbreaking partnership. As featured in Sports Illustrated, TTA has launched exclusive collections of licensed college football signed team memorabilia, now available for purchase on the Amazon Fanshop. This initiative marks a significant milestone in sports memorabilia, offering fans a unique opportunity to own a piece of their favorite team's glory, including signed jerseys, posters, footballs, and the iconic Speedflex Helmets worn by players.    The collections feature memorabilia from the University of Michigan, the University of Tennessee, and the University of Georgia, with plans to announce more. TTA's innovative approach ensures authenticity and fan engagement, setting a new standard in celebrating sports history. Notably, the first four customers of each team collection to claim their Certificate of Authenticity (COA) will receive two free tickets to that team's first bowl game next year, adding an extra layer of excitement to this unique fan experience.    For an in-depth look at this exciting partnership and what it means for college football fans and collectors, read the full story on Sports Illustrated here. 

In the evolving world of TV advertising, where the shift from traditional to digital formats challenges revenue goals, Charter Communications has made a groundbreaking move. By integrating ShowSeeker's innovative Pilot system, Charter is setting a new standard in ad-order management, potentially reshaping the industry's future.  Charter's Spectrum Reach, handling ad sales across 91 markets in 36 states, has already seen remarkable results with Pilot, generating 290,000 orders for its diverse clientele. This cloud-based solution not only streamlines the order management process but also enhances inventory accessibility and sales efficiency. Chris Faw, Senior VP of Operations at Spectrum Reach, emphasizes the system's impact: "What it does is make us better at mining that existing pool of audience that we’ve had all along," highlighting the system's ability to "unlock" and make inventory more "salable, usable."  With around 60,000 linear channels to sell against daily, even a slight efficiency improvement could unlock significant opportunities. Pilot's flexibility and vendor responsiveness make it an ideal tool for selling converged campaigns, offering a one-stop-shop experience that could set a new industry benchmark.  For a detailed dive into how Charter and ShowSeeker are changing the game in ad-order management and why this might be a turning point for the industry, read the full story here.   

?Recently the Daily Ad Brief spoke with Bob Gold & Associates President Bob Gold as part of their weekly Marketing Champions series. Bob shared his thoughts on industry trends and challenges and what makes our PR agency unique. Watch the video here.

The internationally recognized, data-driven public relations and marketing agency, Bob Gold & Associates (BG&A) is thrilled to announce that we recently celebrated 25 years of helping launch and grow nearly 250 clients ranging from hi-tech startups and associations to Fortune 500 companies.   Since our founding in 1997, Bob and his team have established themselves as a premier communications agency for leading hardware and software tech companies alike, expanding far beyond our roots in cable TV to encompass industries including media and entertainment, streaming, IoT, AdTech, enterprise software, blockchain and communication service providers.   “Whether clients are on the upswing or are in trouble, we have stepped up and helped shape their message and meaning to their community,” said President and Founder, Bob Gold. “For a quarter century, we always put our clients’ interests first.  Honesty is so rare today.  We pride ourselves on pushing back, and not being ‘yes folks.’ It is the only way to ensure their company, brand and reputation meet the future head on.”   We stay relevant in order to propel clients’ businesses forward, providing creative solutions and highly tailored communications programs that deliver meaningful results. This not only includes offering a variety of timely and much-needed services, but also creative services to support rebranding efforts and introduce disruptive technologies.   Current and recent clients include next generation smart home services, NFTs for the metaverse, AI-powered energy management, lab-made cheese, social justice campaigns, streaming channels, and highly touted individual shows.   The company’s proprietary BG&A Insight™ is a unique, data-driven approach to PR and brand management that has helped the firm meet every client’s unique needs by implementing proactive and personalized PR campaigns tackling all five pillars offered in the program.   Bob Gold & Associates has received numerous accolades and awards. Most recently, the firm was recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best PR Agencies for 2021. Recently, we have been selected among the Top California Public Relations Firms by DesignRush. The agency was also recognized as a top place to work by Cablefax Magazine in 2019. That same year, Bob Gold was named Communications Professional of the Year by the Los Angeles Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. Gold was inducted into the Cable TV Pioneers in 2007.   Special Thanks to our friends and partners in the media who have supported and celebrated with us. CableFax Daily highlighted our anniversary! When (Bob) Gold Turns Silver - It’s been 25 years since Bob Gold founded his PR and marketing firm Bob Gold & Associates after getting his start in the industry at HBO and Prime Ticket. As a communications pro, he’s had a bird’s-eye view of cable’s transformation during that period. “This is the 1980s all over again—in terms of connected TVs being the new cable system, in terms of bundling that’s coming together. What’s really interesting is that cable was the brand that everyone loved to hate. It was expensive, you had no choice, and it was bad customer service. So direct-to-consumer streaming was like this cure. Nobody hates that cable operator anymore,” he told CFX. That might be a bit of PR wishful thinking, but cable certainly has come a long way from the days of the evil “cable guy.” The PRWeek Podcast featured our very own Bob Gold! Longtime agency owner talks about celebrating his film’s quarter-century in business, legendary moments in entertainment communications and sports TV rights. Palos Verde Magazine spotlights Bob in the feature story on page 16 -- Rolling Hills Resident and Owner Bob Gold & Associates, Celebrates 25 Years in Business and Discovers a New Chapter in his Book of Life BG&A Founder Bob Gold reminisces about 2+ decades in cable and telecom with Jeff Baumgartner in a recent Light Reading Podcast   Stroll Rolling Hills magazine celebrates Rolling Hills resident Bob Gold on the 25th anniversary of Bob Gold & Associates with a treasure trove of photos starting on page 12.

Hollywood’s most unlikely hero, Danny Trejo, comes to life as a playable character inside the multiplayer open world survivor game, SCUM. In addition, Epik Prime Marketplace will offer Trejo’s first ever NFT collection, titled “The Many Faces of Danny Trejo.”   Epik, the leading global licensing agency immersing major brands into AAA games, in a collaboration with Gamepires’ SCUM, will offer fans the ability to select Trejo as a character with customizable options and accessories to navigate through the multiplayer survival game. Voiced by Trejo himself, the avatar is modeled after his iconic 1990s roles that launched his career.   “I’ve been fortunate to work on some incredible projects throughout my career, but seeing myself in a badass game like ‘SCUM’ has got to be one of the highlights,” said Trejo in a statement. “Working with Epik and Gamepires has been an awesome collaboration. This partnership is an opportunity to engage with fans on a different level.”   READ MORE Danny Trejo to Appear as Playable Character in Survival Video Game, Trilby Beresford, The Hollywood Reporter SCUM: The One and Only Danny Trejo is Now a Playable Character, Jason Nieva, Player.One