This week, Steve Farella departs for France where he will participate in the 2011 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity as a Media Juror.  Steve joins a panel of top executives from media networks across the globe, including representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, Japan and the United Kingdom.  Steve brings a unique perspective to the group as the leader of one of the world’s few independently owned and operated media agencies.

Terry Savage, Chairman of Cannes Lions, said of the jurors’ role:  ”The outcome of the judging process is crucial to the future of the industry.  We can never underestimate the role that these talented professionals will take on when they vote, deliberate and award the best work currently out there.  It’s an honor to have such authorities on board for this year’s awards.”

We wish Steve safe travels.  We all will be keeping up with the events in France as they unfold.

All over the US, kids from Kindergarten to 12th grade are participating in the contest Doodle 4 Google. These talented youngsters are redesigning Google’s homepage logo to encompass the theme “What I’d Like to do someday…”

One lucky artist will win a $15,000 college scholarship, along with a $25,000 grant for their current school.

My favorite, “Jungle Art” was designed by 9 year-old Katie Stephenson from Stilwell, Oklahoma. Be sure to vote, your last chance is May 13,2011.