The Popcorn Palace Economy

The Popcorn Palace Economy
The thirsty moviegoer fuels the business.

Once upon a time, movie studios and movie theaters were in the same business. The studios made films for theater chains that they either owned or controlled, and they harvested almost all their revenue from ticket sales. Then, in 1948, the government forced the studios to divest themselves of the theaters. Nowadays, the two are in very different businesses. Theater chains, in fact, are in three different businesses.

First, they are in the fast-food business, selling popcorn, soda, and other snacks. This is an extremely profitable operation in which the theaters do not split the proceeds with the studios (as they do with ticket sales). Popcorn, for example, because of the immense amount of popped bulk produced from a relatively small amount of kernels—the ratio is as high as 60:1—yields more than 90 cents of profit on every dollar of popcorn sold. It also serves to make customers thirsty for sodas, another high-margin product (supplied to most theater chains by Coca-Cola, which makes lucrative deals with theater owners in return for their exclusive "pouring" of its products). One theater chain executive went so far as to describe the cup holder mounted on each seat, which allows customers to park their soda while returning to the concession stand for more popcorn, as "the most important technological innovation since sound." He also credited the extra salt added into the buttery topping on popcorn as the "secret" to extending the popcorn-soda-popcorn cycle throughout the movie. For this type of business, theater owners don't benefit from movies with gripping or complex plots, since that would keep potential popcorn customers in their seats. "We are really in the business of people moving," Thomas W. Stephenson Jr., who then headed Hollywood Theaters, told me. "The more people we move past the popcorn, the more money we make."

Second, theater chains are in the movie exhibition business. Here they are partners with the studios. Although every deal is different, the theaters and the studios generally wind up splitting the take from the box office roughly 50-50. But, unlike the popcorn bonanza, the theaters' expenses eat up a large part of their exhibition share. They pay all the costs necessary to maintain the auditoriums, which includes ushers, cleaning staffs, projectionists to keep the movies in focus, and the regular replacement of projector bulbs that cost more than $1,000 each. The way they can squeeze out more profits from this business is to cut expenses to the bare minimum. Not uncommonly, theater owners delay changing projector bulbs even if they do not produce the specified level of brightness on screen. Or, rather than using a separate projectionist for each film, multiplexes use one projectionist to service up to eight movies, an economy of scale that saves seven salaries. While these projectionists are able to change reels for one film while other movies go unattended, this practice runs the risk that the other films might momentarily snag in the projector and get burnt by the lamp. To prevent such costly mishaps, projectionists slightly expand the gap between the gate that supports the film and the lamp, even though this puts a film slightly out of focus. This is often considered an acceptable trade-off to the financially pressed chains. "I've never heard a teenager complain about PQ [picture quality]," one movie chain executive said. "If they find it too dark, they still have the concession stand."

Third, the theaters are in the advertising business. They sell on-screen ads. And some advertisers are paying more than $50,000 per screen annually, especially to theaters willing to pump up the volume to near ear-shattering level so that seated customers will pay attention. Since there are virtually no costs involved in showing ads, the proceeds go directly to the theater chains' bottom lines. But to fit paid advertising into the gap between showings, multiplexes have to cut down on the length of the studios' coming attractions (which are free advertising), a decision that hardly pleases studios. (Often, getting the coming attractions shown involves the studios "leveraging our goodwill," as one studio executive explained. The studios will threaten to hold back a popcorn movie, such as the new Harry Potter or Star Wars sequels, unless the chain agrees to play a full reel of trailers.)

To keep their people-moving enterprise going, theater owners prefer movies whose length does not exceed 128 minutes. If a movie runs longer than that, and the theater owners do not want to sacrifice their on-screen advertising time, they will reduce the number of their evening audience "turns" or showings from three to two, which means that 33 percent fewer people pass their popcorn stands. Even so, if a long movie promises to bring in a big enough audience—a promise King Kong made but did not deliver—the theaters will play it. Indeed, the ultimate test for the popcorn economy is: Will a movie attract enough consumers of buckets of popcorn and soda to justify turning over multiple screens to it? Theater owners know that the popcorn audience is mainly teens. And, since the observation of teen test audiences over many years has demonstrated that they prefer action to dialogue, expect a salty, supersize portion of amusement-park movies this year.

what are all the google bots?

Well, beside the regular googlebots, there's

MediaBot - used to analyze AdSense page

suser agent "Mediapartners-google"

ImageBot - crawling for the Image Search

user agent "googleBot-Image"

AdsBot - checking AdWords landing pages for quality

user agent "AdsBot-google"

Regarding Adwords

This bot"googleBot/2.1" has been crawling one page of my site daily. The page being crawled is the target of an adwords campaign. So Adwords is definitely looking at target page quality. Note the upper case "Bot". This is ("googleBot/2.1") the entire referrer string as well. It has used multiple IP addresses.This bot ("googleBot/2.1") also detected a change to one of my robots.txt files (more liberal for google) and appeared to almost immediately trigger a deep complete crawl of the site from the conventional bot. I believe all the bots cooperate in collecting the robots.txt file.

there is another google bot use in mobile now:

Google Wireless Transcoder
The conventional bot has a lower case "bot""Mozilla/5.0 (compatible; googlebot/2.1; +http://www.google.com/bot.html)"

google has made it a little difficult to sort out all of their bots with one search string "/2.1" works but does find some extra unrelated odds and ends in logs. (Except of course googlebot-Image/1.0)

Referrer strings extracted directly from my logs

Adsense: "Mediapartners-google/2.1"

Adwords: "googleBot/2.1"google-: "

Mozilla/5.0 (compatible; googlebot/2.1;

+http://www.google.com/bot.html)"

Image--: "googlebot-Image/1.0"

Of course as mentioned, there's Froogle,Mobile,and Feed for RSS feeds.

Also google now appears to be exclusively using HTTP/1.1, until recently there has been a mix of HTTP/1.1 and HTTP/1.0. One thing important to note is google is now always requesting GZIP compressed content if your server provides it. Your website might get an "attaboy" if you served GZIP compressed content to the "bots". This could cut your website's bandwidth usage and boost your site's performance.

KISSING TIPS AND ADVICE

What is a kiss?

A romantic kiss is a special kind of kiss. It's a connection that two people share, usually on a date. It's when two people feel really close to each other and want to share something special with each other, they kiss.
When you and that special person get together on a date or simply hanging out and you can just feel that they like you in a romantic way and want to kiss you. It's like you can feel the the energy between the two of you, then kiss is a natural extension of that energy that brings two people on a date even closer.

Kiss can come on suddenly, where two of you are either alone or sitting right across each other or on a date or in some other comfortable situation and suddenly you feel kind of pleasant tension in the air. The kind of energy that you know when a kiss is about to happen. Suddenly you just feel your face almost uncontrollably slowly swaying towards that special someone... and then the kiss happens! :)

It's truly an amazing feeling of connection when that happens. As if all walls crumble and two of you unite in a fusion of energy that surrounds both of you and shines outwards and their date becomes much more enjoyable.

Kissing can be considered an art form, because you can learn how to be really god at it by reading kissing tips and advice.

FIRST KISS

What happens during a first romantic kiss?

First romantic kiss is probably the most memorable event in person's life. Almost everyone remembers their first kiss. It's that time when everything feels new, anticipation builds up with enormous force and as you hold hands and move in closer for that first magical moment and the rest of the world fades away as your lips connect to your partner's lips.
Well, maybe not quite like this :) First time can be quite awkward for some people. There is nothing wrong with it, I mean how are you supposed to know how to do something without having ever done it before? Humans learn through repetition and kissing is quite pleasant to be done a lot, so you will learn quickly :)

When you're with that special someone that you really like and he or she likes you back, you can try to kiss with that person. Different people have different comfort levels when it comes to kissing, so if you're unsure if your partner wants to kiss, you can ask him or her. Asking is probably going to be less awkward if you just try to go for the kiss, especially if your partner has never kissed before either.

There are a few tips that can help you avoid awkwardness during your first kiss! It's such an exciting moment!

Ask your partner if he or she wants to kiss.

Don't rush things too quickly, rather take your time

Look your partner in the eyes and exchange few warms words to help each other feel more comfortable.

Hold hands.

If you're a guy, softly stroke your girlfriend's hair, while looking into her eyes.

If you're sitting next to each other, you can whisper some sweet words into your partner's ear.

Give your partner a compliment to make them feel more comfortable.

As you look into each other's eyes try to move your head a little bit closer to their head and watch how they react.

Slowly move in closer and closer, turning your head slightly to the right (most people turn their head to the right when they are about to kiss) as you open your mouth slightly.

When your mouths connect, stop moving your head forward and softly press up against your partner's lips with your lips.

As you kiss their lips with your lips, you can softly, just a tiny little bit stick your tongue out and touch their lips.

Don't put the tongue into their mouth the first time you kiss, since first kiss is very delicate.

After a few seconds of kissing, withdraw your head and look into your partner's eyes and hug them :)

Tell your partner you really enjoyed their kiss to make him or her feel more comfortable.

Basic Kissing Tips

Great Breath - This is very important. Make sure you brush your teeth before going out on your date. There is nothing worse than kissing someone with bad breath.

If your date consists of having something to eat before the actual kiss, make sure you have a mint on hand to take right after you finish eating. Don't take the mint just before the kiss or chew on gum. You don't want to have something in your mouth when you kiss.

Moist Lips - You want your lips to be slightly moist when you kiss. Run your tongue over your lips once before you kiss. Don't wear lip gloss because that tends to make the kiss too gooey.

And don't wear a lot of lipstick unless you want your partner to wear it too after the kiss. Slightly moist lips makes it easier to move your lips over your partner's and gives both you and your partner a more pleasant experience.

Positioning - Stand close to your partner. As the two of you move closer together tilt your head slightly. If you can see which way your partner's head is tilting, tilt your head slightly in the opposite direction.

Close Eyes - Just before your lips meet, close your eyes. Some people prefer to leave their eyes open during the kiss. But until you know what your partner prefers, it is best to close your eyes.

Open Lips - Open your mouth slightly and place your lips over your partner's lips. Do not hold your breath! Breath through your nose. As your lips meet, press them gently over your partner's. You may wish to move your lips in a slow, circular motion or just leave them still over your partners.

Closed Lips - This is like the type of kiss you'd give your grandma or aunt. Instead of opening your mouth when your lips meet, keep them closed. This is also a good way of letting your partner know this is as far as it goes. It also makes a great hello/good-bye kiss or a great first time kiss if you're nervous.

French Kissing

This is the most popular type of kiss. This involves touching your tongue with your partner's and it can be quite a pleasant experience. There are a few tips to create a great french kiss.

Open Lips - Open your lips over your partner's slightly more than you would during a regular kiss. This makes it easier to place your tongue in your partner's mouth.

Tongue - Place the tip of your tongue on the tip of your partner's tongue. Do not force your tongue too far into their mouth. If you wish, you can play with their tongue by circling theirs with your own. Have fun with it. Explore.

Lips - You may explore different ways of using your tongue. Try running the tip of your tongue over your partner's lips. Do this slowly and gently, just using the tip of your tongue.

Suck Kissing

This can be a very seductive type of kiss. Instead of French Kissing with your mouth open, while your partner's lips are parted suck on their top our bottom lip with your own, just for a second or two. Then go back to another type of kiss or try the other lip.

Nip Kissing

This type of kiss has to be done carefully, but when done correctly can create a wonderful effect on your date. While suck kissing, gently bite their lip, but be VERY gentle so as not to hurt your date / partner. This kiss should only be done with someone that you've kissed a few times before, otherwise you may shock your partner.

Surprise Kissing

This type of kiss is done when your partner is lying down on a sofa or the ground, either asleep or just lying with their eyes closed. Quietly approach your partner and place a small, very gentle kiss on their lips. Intensify the kiss until your partner opens their eyes or awakens.

Shopping on 2008 Black Friday

It seems like the Friday after Thanksgiving has been a favorite shopping day for bargain hunters since Santa Claus gave hammer and nails to his toy-crafting elves. Once the turkey is down the hatch, many an American mind turns to Black Friday, typically the busiest shopping day of the year. With this year’s shaky economy, sales and discounts will be especially important when shoppers select under-the-tree items. Gallup poll results released on November 19 projected that Americans will spend an average of only $616 on gifts this holiday season, the lowest figure in Gallup’s 10-year history of that particular poll. To make shopping a bit easier on the wallet, here is a list of sales and specials around town.

Third Street Promenade:

Some of the biggies along the Promenade confirmed that they’ll be opening their doors in the wee hours of the morning on Friday, November 28. Other outlets along this bustling strip may have sales and special hours too, but here are the sure things:

Macy’s
Extended hours: 5 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sales on various items throughout the store.

Victoria’s Secret
Extended hours: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sales on various items throughout the store.

Forever 21
Extended hours: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Many items in the store will be offered at a buy-one-get-one-free rate.

Old Navy
Open on Thanksgiving Day, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; extended hours on Black Friday: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sales on various items throughout the store.

Off-Promenade Retailers:

B.NY.
2449 Main Street
Regular store hours on Black Friday and continuation of a 40-percent-off holiday sale that started in recent weeks.

Berry Lee Shoes
2525 Main Street
Regular store hours on Black Friday and continuation of a holiday sale on various items that started in recent weeks.

Bertini Shoes and Clothing
2818 Main Street
Regular store hours and continuation of a 25-percent to 75-percent off sale on select items throughout the store.

Note: Angel City Books (218 Pier Avenue) will be closed on Black Friday, but will re-open on Saturday, November 29. Ten Women Art and Gift Gallery (2651 Main Street) will have a holiday sale on December 6.

Before hitting the stores, visit blackfriday.dealighted.com, where printable coupons for several stores and items are available.

9 shopping tips for Black Friday
2008 Black Friday Printable Coupons Round-Up!
Black Friday 2008

Black Friday 2008

There are way too many stores to cover so I picked a few of my favorites. There are plenty of stores and sales, but some of them can’t seem to measure up. Walmart has made it the place to buy this Black Friday, with crazy low prices!
Best Buy
Best Buy store doors open at 5am.
Reason to visit: Low prices on flat screen tvs.
Kohls
Their online specials begin at 1am EST and their stores open at 4am.
Reason to visit: Earn $10 Kohls Cash for every $50 in purchases.
KB Toys
Some stores are opening at Midnight on Friday morning.
Reason to visit: Buy 2 Get 1 free on all video games.
WalMart
Depending on the store, WalMart is listing their Black Friday sale at 3am EST, stores should open 3-5am
Reason to visit: Samsung 10.2MP Digital Camera for only $69.
Amazon
I am kind of disappointed with Amazon, I haven’t seen much from them. However you never know what you’ll find. Their Black Friday sale goes live at 3am EST.
Reason to visit: Nintendo DS Bundle w/ game for $134.99.
It will be interesting what these stores offer online, that they are going to be available in store. Are you planning on shopping on Black Friday?

9 shopping tips for Black Friday

2008 Black Friday Printable Coupons Round-Up!

2008 Black Friday Printable Coupons Round-Up!

We've compiled a list of the best printable coupons available for Black Friday:
• Avenue has a 25% off printable Coupon

• Bath and Body works $10 off $30 Printable Coupon

• Casual Male $20 off $75 or more Printable Coupon

• Champs $15 off $50 or more

• Crab Tree and Evelyn $10 off $50 Printable Coupon

• Dick's Sporting Goods Printable Coupon for $15 off $75

• Easy Spirit $10 off $50 or more!

• Famous Footwear $10 off $50 or more!

• Finish Line $10 off $60 or more!

• Kmart $5 off $50+ Printable Coupon

• Lane Bryant $50 off $150 Printable Coupon

• Macy's Printable $10 off $25 Coupon

• Pep-Boys $5 off $30 or more printable coupons!

• Reebok 20% off your entire purchase!

• Sears Printable Coupons $5 off Next Purchase, 10% off Appliances, Update Kitchen now, pay later!

• Sherman Williams $10 off $50 or more!

• Staples off $5 off $25 or more!

• Thomas Kinkade $100 off any framed Limited Edition canvas purchase!

• True Value $5 off $25+ Purchases

• Yankee Candle $10 off $25 or more!

Also, 9 Shopping tips for Black Friday!

9 shopping tips for Black Friday

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is traditionally the busiest shopping day of the year, but it is not easy work getting great deals. Here are some tips to help you make the most of it!



Retailers and shoppers alike eagerly anticipate this day, for the sales and the deals, but Black Friday can be overwhelming, so make sure you’re prepared:

• Get up early! If you like your sleep, plan to take a nap afterwards, but do not start shopping late on Black Friday. There will be shoppers camped out before any of the stores open (and they open early that day!) so if you want a deal or a parking space, make sure you set your alarm!

• Shop with a purpose. Black Friday is not the day to wander around, casually looking at gift ideas. There will be crowds, full parking lots, and better deals than you’ve seen all year! Do your research - look at the ads and pay attention to which products are in which stores and for how much. Then you can go directly to the stores that interest you and not waste time and energy fighting extra crowds.

• Shop in one place. Black Friday is not the day to drive all around town checking out every mall in the city. For one thing, once you have a parking space, you’ll want to keep it! Figure out which mall has the most of what you’re looking for and plant yourself there for the day, going to different stores, but not moving your car. I look for a place that gives me easy access to Best Buy, Kohl’s, Old Navy and Staples.

• Streamline. This is probably not the day to bring the stroller, the bulky diaper bag, or the dog on a leash. You’ll be moving in crowds and want to be as streamlined as possible. Make sure your purse is zipped or snapped closed and think about taking packages back to the car periodically. The less bulky packages you’re carrying, the easier it will be for you to move through the crowds!

• Get a team. Find out which of your family and friends will be attacking the stores on Black Friday and go together. You’ll be glad you’re all in one car looking for one parking space and not in four separate cars!

• Divide and conquer. The other great thing about shopping as a team is that you can spread out. If you are organized and have listed what you want from each store, assign certain people to different stores to get everything there. You will save precious time and sanity!

• Go with a sense of humor. You do not want to be one of those people who loses their cool and ends up on the news for attacking the person who got the last PlayStation! Instead, relax, be kind to your fellow shoppers and the stressed-out retail clerks, and plan to meet up with friends for dinner or coffee to share your shopping stories.

• Check the ads online first. You can see black friday ad scans (which are usually correct but not guaranteed) before the papers come out here.

• Think about using the Internet for your actually shopping. If you dislike crowds or getting up early, then you might want to do your Christmas shopping online! Some stores will give you the same deals on their website, while some will have different deals, so you’ll want to check on that. Be sure to check Amazon Black Friday Deals to vote on the items you want at ridiculous prices ($79 wii is sweet!)

• Check out coupon code database for additional saving when shopping online on Black Friday or any time!

Happy shopping!