FIRST AME CHURCH CELEBRATES CHANGE, ONE MAN IN THE MIRROR AT A TIME
Driving up from San Diego, Terrence was a tall, lean, young black man with God on his mind. He couldn't have a picked a better morning. It was a beautiful communion Sunday at First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Los Angeles, California.
As the city awakened after joining with the rest of the country celebrating barbeque, family, freedom and fireworks - all the typical things associated with the 4th of July - now was the time for a different type of commemoration.
This day was particularly special to Terrence and others as they began the official mourning, and for throngs of fans a deeper level of grieving, over the still incalculable loss of music icon Michael Jackson.
Before the 10:00 AM service, it was agreed that the controversial political and civil rights social activist Reverend Al Sharpton would say a few words on Michael Jackson’s behalf. Sharpton met with First AME Pastor John Hunter, First Lady Denise Hunter, and a host of recognized community leaders in the criminal justice, legal, political, and ecumenical arenas.
While this was unfolding, a cacophony of mainstream media outlets descended south of Interstate 10 tasked with ferreting out any additional information about the legendary talent who, even in death, has seen renewed appreciation for his extraordinary talent.
Since word spread of Jackson’s death, radio airplay for songs including “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” Pretty Young Thing” and “Remember The Time” have increased by a staggering 1,735%.
Sales of his solo albums “Thriller” and “Off The Wall” are up an unprecedented 4,000-percent, from 10,000 copies sold the week before his death to 422,000 sold for the week that ended June 28, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
And he has caused over 1 million people across the globe to salivate over the improbable chance that they, straight from the pages of Willie Wonka and The Chocolate Factory, will be so lucky as to witness a special memorial tribute at the fortress-like Staples Center, a mere four miles away from the sanctuary that just the week prior LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa chose to be sworn into his second term in office.
The purpose of Al Sharpton’s visit to the oldest black church in the Southland was to announce the commencement of a “Love Vigil” Tuesday July 7.
This would not only take place at Staples, the adjacent Nokia Theatre and First AME, but the goal was that it would spread to countless venues around the world.
In addition, efforts had already begun to have a national day of honor along with a postage stamp to recognize the King of Pop’s significant contributions to the arts.
Not that Terrence was necessary consumed by these things taking place. Wearing a simple t-shirt, black jeans and black tennis shoes, he listened as Pastor Walt “Baby” Love schooled those in attendance about Michael Jackson’s classic “Man in The Mirror” song, played during a three minute video tribute that paid homage to the award winning entertainer’s incredible journey.
Pastor Love revealed how the acclaimed gospel family “The Winans” had actually sung back-up on the track, and that noted gospel singer Pastor Andre Crouch had arranged the song that continues to give special meaning to so many.
But then the conversation at the pulpit quickly turned to more somber news, including the murder of famed former NFL Quarterback Steve McNair, along with the heart-wrenching details of a congregation member who lost four family relatives in a fatal car accident.
Before audience members could completely absorb these tragedies, uplifting news came in the form of the FAME Assistance Program gearing up to host an inaugural, full-day school initiative over the summer for 100 kids in response to the Los Angeles Unified School District’s canceling of a majority of course studies due to massive cuts in education that continue to wreak havoc on California.
Palpable among Angelenos, the frustration over the state’s continued loss of millions of dollars while lawmakers in Sacramento try to resolve a bleak situation did not deter Terrence and others who sat in their pews and received the message being delivered by Al Sharpton.
In fact many shouted Amen as the Harlem-based pastor, never at a loss for words, thanked God for another day before describing how he first met Michael Jackson when he was only thirteen in 1969. He answered critics by detailing the numerous times he had stood by the Jackson Family before chastising the despicable way the media who, according to Sharpton, was attempting to destroy, degrade, denigrate and undermine a man who has broke every record in the history books. Or as he further noted, a genius that had to “deal with a freakish situation” in life.
By not showing the proper deference and respect for a struggling African American working family from Gary, Indiana who saw their dreams materialize, who proved to be a powerful symbol in the face of racism and discrimination, who have given so much to the world, Sharpton warned that this double standard playing out, through comparisons to the passing of Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, had clear racial undertones.
Undeterred, he preached about how these global vigils would deal with the message, while the media would be reduced to dealing with the mess.
But it was Reverend Sharpton’s statements about praising God through trials, tribulations and suffering, no matter what a person is going through, that clearly resonated with the congregation and elicited the longest standing ovations among the many.
After the church erupted in a crescendo of praise and Sharpton turned to take his seat on the pulpit, Pastor John made a call to anyone in the sanctuary who was ready to surrender their life to a Higher Power.
From nowhere, Terrence emerged. The toothy young man from San Diego rose from where he had been stationed, made his way to the altar, and accepted God in his life.
Of course for many, this was all overshadowed by the press conference that immediately followed. Here is where a long row of cameras rolled, shutters flickered, and questions were lobbed with ferocity about the details surrounding the actual funeral for Michael Jackson, the current status of his three small children, and musings over whether if more diversity was seen in the mainstream media, would that cause the tone to be less jarring and astringent.
Those questions would linger. But for one person who decided to follow Michael Jackson’s call to take a look at them self, it was a service like no other.
I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways.
And no message would have been any clearer
If you want to make the world a better place,
Take a look at yourself and make that… CHANGE!
July 5, 2009
By Kevin Ross, President & CEO 3BAAS Media Group
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Designer Handbags & Cell Phone Purses From Designs2Infinity.Com
Rev. Al Sharpton Takes Media To Task About Michael Jackson, Ends Up Saving A Soul!
Congresswoman Maxine Waters Declares "EVERYBODY Is Now Paying Attention To Bloggers!"
"The blogging committee has emerged as a powerful force. We need more of you to focus on the war issue. Continue to do what you do. Corporate media is out. The New York Post was asking lobbyist to come to their event recently. The Blogosphere is what's happening. EVERYBODY is paying attention to bloggers!" 
That's what Congresswoman Maxine Walters opined while speaking out about the war in Iraq, U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, health care, media and other hot political issues July 2, 2009 at Brave New Studios offices during an interview with Robert Greenwald.
Waters has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991 for California's 35th congressional district. She sits on the Committee on the Judiciary and the subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security, among others. She also co-founded and chairs the Congressional Out of Iraq Caucus and serves as a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
3BAAS Media Group's CEO Kevin Ross had a chance to speak to the Democratic House member from Los Angeles, who indicated that she wants to make her constituents benefit from the Broadband Stimulus Funds that will be available this year.
With more people receiving their news from the Internet than ever before, Brave New Studios have created a state-of-the-art media center geared toward compelling online content. At Brave New Foundation's headquarters in Culver City, California, their work includes cutting-edge video webcasting and pretaped shows seen by the online community around the world.
Since its inception in July of 2008, Brave New Studio has produced In Their Boots, This Brave Nation, Meet the Bloggers, and a series of debates about the war in Afghanistan as part of the documentary campaign, Rethink Afghanistan.
Brave New Studio is building the progressive infrastructure for the future of Internet news.
Special thanks to Our Weekly editor Kathy Williamson for facilitating the interview.
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The Life of Michael Jackson on Blogtalkradio's Kevin Ross Show
(Click the photo of Michael Jackson to hear the chilling 911 Emergency Call)Reggie Calloway, formerly of the group Midnight Star, was one of several callers who paid tribute to the controversial superstar know as well for his sometimes wacky behavior as for a music career spanning five decades and 19 Grammys.
Twice inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Jackson is believed to have sold close to half a billion records with such chart-topping hits such as Beat It, Billie Jean, Black or White, and of course Thriller. On his radio show, Ross erred in stating the Jackson's record sales were at 1 billion.
Speculation remains as to whether former wife and mother to two of the children Debbie Rowe will raised Paris Michael Katherine Jackson, 11, and Michael Joseph Jackson Jr., 12, after giving up all custody rights in exchange for money.
As to the MJ's youngest, 6 year-old Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. (affectionately referred to as "Blanket"), no word on that child's mother or the role she may want to play in the child's life at this point.
In the meantime, the autopsy on Michael Jackson's body could take up to eight weeks before conclusive results are announced. In the meantime, speculation grows over the circumstances surrounding the death of the Black man who altered his appearance to the point of being unrecognizable.
Police are looking for Jackson's doctor who administered a dose of the drug Demoral that may have caused Jackson to go into cardiac arrest.Stay tuned folks, this is only the beginning of the circus that without question is about to unleash.
Cell Phone Purses By Lore Ross A Hit With Women Seaching The Web For Quality Handbags and Purses That Are Affordable
Attention serious fashionista looking for something unique. Budding entrepreneur Lore Ross of Designs To Infinity has a outrageously cute line of cell phone purses that has women scooping them up for birthdays, graduations and bridesmaids. And on occasion, the intended recipient actually gets the gift -- instead of having to admire it from a far.Affordably priced, these smartly designed, specialty-made bags in various hip colors and styles allow a girl to dress them up or down depending on her mood. What's particularly rich about these purses is the ease with which you can catch your guy's important call without fumbling all over the place, or otherwise destroying the cell phone now used as much for texting and updating your Facebook page then actually talking.
"We're seeing this explosion of various mobile applications being offered, so it was only a matter of time before style and functionality joined forces to create fabulous accessories for woman on the go," says Ross, a former Southern California fashion instructor. "With an additional opening for a credit card, driver license, some lipstick and a little cash, everything you need is right there."
And as cell phones become more sleek while retaining all the digital stuff us girls need to keep our lives manageable, this is one pleasure you won't feel guilty about splurging for. Designing since her teen years, Ross knew others would embrace her passion for bags. Seeing her sales increase exponentially over the last few months, all indicators are the busy wife and mother of two is definitely on the right track.
Just in time to celebrate July 4th, the simply adorable Barack Obama inspired "Patriotic Collection" will leave a lasting impression. Using social media to promote her brand, Lore Ross is marketing in ways that truly leverage her small business owner status. Just a quick Google search for "Cell Phone Purses" immediately brings up her blog designstoinfinity.blogspot.com.In addition, Ross is on Twitter, and her line has been featured on the popular hand-crafted website Etsy. Recently profiled in Our Weekly Newspaper, crocheted bags and clutch purses are just some of the other delicious items you'll find when you stop by the Designs to Infinity online boutique. And if you can, catch up with Lore at one or more of the major upscale trade shows being held throughout the country.
KJLH Radio Public Affairs Director Jacquie Stephens Leaves The L.A. Scene
Los Angeles Loses One Phenomenal Woman
By Isidra Person-Lynn
Host of "LA Speaks Out" on urban radio station 102.3 KJLH for over decades, veteran News and Public Affairs Director Jacquie Stephens has moved to her childhood home of Chicago to start the next chapter of her journey.
This will probably come as a shock to her devoted listeners, and attendees of the annual Womens' Health Forum. But after the recent passing of her father, this only child knew it was time to be closer to her elderly mother and she stepped up for the biggest assist of her life.
KLJH is one of the few minority run media companies on the West Coast. Music icon and activist Stevie Wonder has owned the legendary FM music station serving the African American community for more than 30 years.
Until February of 2008, I used to sit in for her during her increasing visits to her mother's side. From then until June 16, the radio station has been going through some personnel changes while Jacquie was in the Windy City. Those changes, however, did not impact her decision to be with her mother. She has unselfishly served the Southern California community for over 25 years. This was not a decision that came lightly, but a good decision that brought peace of mind and resolve which allowed her heart to be clear.
As a former public affairs director and news reporter, I know of the countless events, Jacquie MC'd, personalities she interviewed, causes she championed, and news stories she broke. She has been honored frequently as a demonstration of the community's support.
Soon an article about Jacquie will be released, but, since Jacquie is not the type that will allow us to hold a luncheon in her honor (believe me, I asked) feel free to leave a comment which I will share with her.
If you have been a guest on L.A. Speaks Out, if you have ever benefited from a show, if you attended the KJLH Women's Health Conference, or in any way want to send her a message, she will see them, so speak directly to her. She would love to hear from you.
As for me, I am proud of my friend. The same way she worked for our community, she quietly departed. As always, she did it her way. Kwaku and Jaaye and I will miss you, Jacquie, but hold on, we're coming! And Steja, we're here for you, too!
Here are photos from this year's health forum.
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New 2009 Study Examines Online Habits of Tech-Savvy African Americans
A recent survey conducted by 3BAAS Media Group that polled members of the newly formed Urban New Media Group elicited some surprising answers to questions surrounding habits of US blacks who frequent the Web.
Queried on the Internet locations they visited, You Tube by far was the most popular, followed by news sites such as CNN and Huffington Post, and then Facebook.
While blogs came in much lower than expected, the online tool the majority of respondents indicated they were most interested in learning more about was blogging. A close second was creating video content, with training on additional Facebook social networking applications coming in third.
Interesting enough, Twitter was not used by many of those surveyed. And yet mastering how to Tweet ranked in close proximity to Facebook.
When asked on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the best) how well were clergy and political representatives communicating important issues affecting African Americans, both received a score of 3. Community leaders fared worse, garnering an average score of 2.
Black newspapers and cable networks also received a 2 when the question was posed, "From a scale of 1 – 5 (with 5 being the best) how well do you think black media is doing providing important information to African Americans?" Black magazines and radio were each given a 3 score.
What was also revealing was the number of computer hours individuals spent specifically online. By far the most popular answer was between 3 – 6 hours a day.
Additional information asked included whether individuals believed Johnson Publications, creators of Ebony and Jet magazines, would be able to survive the current downturn amid advertising cutbacks and plummeting circulation numbers.
And participants also were given an opportunity to identify one issue that they would you like to see the Urban New Media Group focus on.
While the Urban New Media Group is open to anyone, most of the respondents were blacks residing in the United States. With membership having already swelled to almost 500 people, clearly a need exists to reach consumers seeking to become fully engaged in all things involving information and technology. Complete results of the survey will be provided to members and the public in the coming days.
The group was launched at the USC Annenberg School of Communication's 2009 Beyond Broadcast Conference. The 4th annual gathering of media experts, industry professionals and academia featured a discussion entitled, Urban New Media - Embracing The Digital Renaissance Movement. On hand to give their insight was Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley Thomas, USC Annenberg Dean Ernie Wilson, actress and media personality Rolonda Watts, and several others.
The moderator of the event was Kevin Ross, president and CEO of 3BAAS Media Group, a strategic marketing and online branding firm based in Los Angeles. Buoyed by the response the panel discussion received, 3BAAS is already planning a full 3-day conference focusing on urban niche communities in 2010.
For more information about the Urban New Media Group, visit the website, or join via Facebook.
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Newspapers, Magazines, Radio & TV Could Learn Something From GM About Reinvention
It's Not About Going Out Of Business, It's About Getting Down To Business
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