Breaking News: Writer, Producer and Undercover Black Man Blogger David Mills Dead At 48

By Kevin Ross, CEO of 3BAAS Media Group

Acclaimed writer and fellow blogger David Mills has died of a brain aneurysm.

WOW! This is devastating.

I absolutely loved reading his blog Undercover Black Man over the last few years. After getting to know David through exchanging emails, I actually interviewed the scribe on my Blogtalkradio show last August. We even laughed how Deadline's Nikki Finke scooped everyone on the news about his upcoming HBO series. He was such a nice guy and creative genius!

On Monday March 29, David posted a clip of his new cable show "Treme", excitedly claiming that it would be airing in two weeks. He would be dead the following day.

"He was very quiet and introverted, but spoke volumes when he wrote," New Orleans actor Wendell Pierce, who starred in The Wire and will also appear in Treme, said of Mills.

"He challenged us as actors and he challenged Americans when it came to matters of race. He was one of the more talented people working in TV. He made it much more than just empty entertainment."

Pierce said Mills collapsed suddenly on set Tuesday during a conversation with colleagues. The cast and crew held a memorial for Mills on the set Wednesday morning, he added. Ironically, when I actually interviewed David in May 2009, he talked about the need to quit smoking, lose weight, and get healthy for the rigors of writing and producing the show.

“The Wire”,” NYPD Blue”, "Picket Fences", “Homicide” and “ER” all have this man's imprimatur on them. One of a small number of working African American writers in Hollywood, Mills also created the NBC 2003 series “Kingpin,” about a Mexican drug cartel.

Most notably, David co-wrote and co-produced “The Corner,” adapted from David Simon’s book about drug abuse and poverty in Baltimore, which won three Emmys.



Before writing for television, David Mills worked as a journalist and gained national attention for a 1992 interview with the hip-hop performer Sister Souljah in The Washington Post, in which she said, “If black people kill black people every day, why not have a week and kill white people?”

When the Rainbow Coalition later invited Sister Souljah to speak at its convention, the group was criticized by Gov. Bill Clinton, then a candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, who cited Mills’s interview.

His latest project "Treme" is about jazz, culture and the folks trying to rebuild their lives in a post-Katrina New Orleans. The series is named after the Creole neighborhood known for its rich, irrepressible musical history. Mills was not only a writer on the project, but co-executive producer as well.

According to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, David passed away in New Orleans where the seried was filmed. Funeral arrangements are still pending.

HBO said Wednesday in a statement:

HBO is deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our dear friend and colleague David Mills. He was a gracious and humble man, and will be sorely missed by those who knew and loved him, as well as those who were aware of his immense talent. David has left us too soon but his brilliant work will live on.

In addition to his passion for writing, David was a music aficionado -- particularly when it came to anything having to do with George Clinton, Parliament and The Funkadelics. His blog, Undercover Black Man allowed the 48-year-old to indulge himself with not only lesser known artists, but also issues concerning what it meant to be black, the absurdity of racism, and injustice in the US and abroad.

David's observations were blunt, biting, clever, and always thought provoking.

You can listen to my Blogtalkradio interview with David Mills here and hear him discuss why he fought so hard to get other black writers into the room.

You can also check out the Treme trailer here.

Per Broadcasting and Cable, Mills wrote two of Treme's episodes: numbers three and seven (with New Orleans musician/writer Davis Rogan). Though Mills was new to New Orleans when production began, he was very quickly energized by the city's rich musical scene.

"Treme" premieres April 11 on HBO.

3BAAS Media Group would like to extend our condolences to the Mills family. Rest in peace David. Job well done my friend!

Source

LAWEBFEST Controversy: TubeFilter Attempts To Silence Black Emmy Winning Writer Michael Ajakwe

Last week, a reporter from TubeFilter-- the ezine that likens itself as the online cousin to Daily Variety-- decided to do a story on LAWEBFEST Founder and Executive Director Michael Ajakwe Jr. The focus was going to to be on this weekend's innovative first all-web series festival. Days later, however, Tubefilter's stated that a decision was made to bury the LA Web Fest story. No reason was given as to why.

That interview-- the one Tubefilter conducted with the African American Emmy-winning writer and producer -- is under the hood. Since they won't run it... we will as an exclusive!

Tubefilter interview date: March 16, 2010

Reporter: Jenni Powell, Tubefilter

Subject: Michael Ajakwe Jr., Executive Director & Founder, LAWEBFEST

Tubefilter-- What inspired you to start this festival?

M.A.-- I have been saying for about two years now that somebody needs to start a film festival showcasing some of the really cool work being done on the web because it seems every day I am discovering a new show on the Internet that I think is really cool. Well, after waiting for "somebody" to step up and do it, I decided to be that "somebody"; or, as I like to kid, "I Am! Somebody!"


Tubefilter-- Can you share with me your background in New Media?

M.A.-- I have been watching online content for about three years. Like many New Media "experts", my background is in other related media like TV and film. I have been a TV writer-producer for 21 years, beginning with entertainment news ("Entertainment Tonight," "E!") and later crossing over to scripted comedies ("Martin," "Sister Sister", "Brothers Garcia," "Eve", "Talk Soup").

About 18 months ago, I created my own web series, "Who..." and spent most of 2009 filming Season 1 (12 episodes). I created, wrote, produced and directed the entire series. I also formed my own webvision channel, AjakweTV.com. I have done workshops in Los Angeles, Virginia and soon Chicago on writing and producing creative content for the web.

Tubefilter-- How is this conference unique from say IAWTV?

M.A.-- IAWTV is more like an unofficial union of web producers who network with each other and honor web series, performers and creators in an annual ceremony, The Streamy Awards; we are strictly a web series festival. LAWEBFEST is here to celebrate the web series by bringing creators together under one roof for three days and showing their work; we are honoring some of this work.

There is also an educational component to the festival. We are holding workshops and panels dealing with most every aspect of producing web content-- creation, writing, acting, marketing, etc. I feel we actually compliment what IAWTV does and I support them in the best way because I am also an IAWTV member (smile).

Tubefilter-- How were the "winners" picked? Such as Best Comedy, etc.?

M.A.-- Like many film and tv festivals, we have members of our staff and our board involved in the judging process. We also have outside judges. Some work in the web industry, some don't. I like mixing up the pot with different points of views. It keeps things fresh and unpredictable and gives more talent a chance to stand out. Our awards have less to do with who is "The Best" and more to do with "Outstanding Achievement" in a particular area of the creative process.

So at our awards banquet, you might see two or even three web series, performers or technicians recognized for their work as opposed to the traditional single "winner" per category concept. The only show in the festival that has no shot at winning any awards is my show "Who..." (for obvious reasons). Hopefully, no one is taking any of these awards too seriously since, at the end of the day, we know virtually ALL awards are subjective.


Tubefilter--Do you plan on making this an annual event?

M.A.-- Based on the response we received in our maiden year (nearly 100 applicants), yes. Unfortunately, we could only choose 50 (48 to be exact). Our goal is to not just show one particular type of web series. We are showcasing some of the other forms that have become popular as well-- VLOGS, Travel & Lifestyle, Talk, to go along with the traditional comedies and drama. But the response was amazing. We have web creators flying in from Canada, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, New York. But most of our entries were from right here on the west coast.

These talents are hungry for a place to showcase what they are doing beyond just the 'Net because, let's face it, even though the content is there to view online, a lot of people are still not watching. This gives them a chance to see what they're missing, go home later and tune in to see more and, of course, tell a friend. So, yes, I would say LAWEBFEST is here to stay.


Tubefilter-- What are some challenges you've faced in organizing this event?

M.A.-- The usual when you have something new-- credibility. Some people wonder how "legit" is this festival. Can we really deliver? And who's behind this event? Fortunately, I have 27 years of experience working in 6 different creative disciplines-- PR, journalism, TV, film, theater and now webvision. I have won various awards for my producing work (including an Emmy) so the curious can check out my website (www.michaelajakwe.com) or IMDB Pro or Google me, as I'm sure most have already done. My resume speaks for itself.

A lot of people in the web game maybe have a few years of experience working in the digital space and maybe that's all they've done; or they have a TV background; or a film background; or a business and finance background. Nothing wrong with that. However, I do feel that my broad range of experience is a big plus when it comes to producing a festival.

It doesn't hurt that I have my own webvision channel (Ajakwetv.com) and that I have actually produced a full season of a web series ("Who...") with more shows on the way. Despite my background, putting on this festival is still a ton of work. You can't pull something like this off if you don't know what you're doing or have a strong team behind you.

We aren't funded by any major corporations nor do we have any big sponsors. And yet, here we are. We exist and we are happening the weekend of March 26th. We're not big and flashy and we don't have to be. No one is coming to LAWEBFEST for that. People are coming for entertainment and substance. That is our focus -- to screen fun, diverse shows and hold fun, informative panels and workshops that will be helpful to our audience.


Tubefilter-- What has been the most rewarding part of planning the event?

M.A.-- The joy I hear in the emails and voice mails of those planning to take part in LAWEBEST. They are excited just to be a part of the weekend. Also, panelists and workshop participants are also enthused about the festival because something like this has never been done when it comes to web shows. I mean, there are a few all-web series festival that take place online. But we are the first one to ask folks to leave their homes and come out to a theater to watch original shows they cannot see on TV or at the movies; a new form of programming that is a part of an underground mass movement of creators-- some professional, some not-- who have found a way to by-pass the traditional Hollywood gatekeepers.

It's such a good feeling to know that so many people want to show their stuff. Just like how water will always find a way out, so will creative expression. The web has become that way and I think it's fantastic.


Tubefilter-- Anything else you'd like to plug or share?

M.A.-- Yes. LAWEBFEST is for the professional and nonprofessional; the "web expert" or just the "web curious." We welcome everyone. Webvision is still a very new medium of expression and so why not try new things? We're not married to the old way of doing things because the old way is not always the best way. We might be the first of our kind but we won't be the last.

I expect to see more of these type of festivals springing up all over the country over the next few years, which would be a very good thing because Hollywood (and I work in Hollywood-- that's what pays the bills) believes that it has a monopoly on creative talent-- in front and behind the camera-- but that's not necessarily true. Hollywood misses the boat on talent every day because Hollywood doesn't look for talent everywhere. Our theme this year is "new visions for a new frontier." But the LAWEBFEST motto is evergreen: "You can find greatness anywhere-- in anybody."

See you at LAWEBFEST, March 26-28 in LA. Click here for details.

Kevin Ross Joins Nancy Grace and Nate Berkus As Fall's New Daytime Line-up Takes Shape

America's Court A Firm Go!

Entertainment Studios will premiere America's Court With Judge Ross on broadcast and cable this
 fall, having cleared the legal strip in 75% of the country.

"We are pleased to have greatly expanded our company's nationwide clearance of America's Court with Judge Ross," said Andrew Temple, President of Domestic Television Distribution for Entertainment Studios.

Created by multihyphenate Byron Allen, Entertainment Studios is set to produce and deliver a minimum of 26 weeks of
 original episodes of America's Court in high definition as well as 26 weeks 
of repeats. The show joins weekly E/I program The Young Icons, which also has been cleared for a 2010 launch under the Entertainment Studios banner, and Career Day, recently picked up by the Sinclair Broadcast Group for 2011.

In entering the daytime syndication arena, Allen assumes his place among a select group of African Americans (think Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry) who are successfully producing content they own, control and distribute to increasingly diverse audiences looking for quality programming.

As America's Court continues to generate strong buzz, television stations are still being offered the one-hour block as two half-hour episodes.





Groups who have already signed on include Weigel, Scripps, Media General, Acme, Cox, 
Raycom, Barrington, Ellis, Journal, Belo, Bonton, LIN, New Age and Sinclair. 


Scheduled to film in Los Angeles, 'Court' joins The Nate Berkus Show (Harpo/Sony) and Swift Justice with Nancy Grace (CTD) as one of three freshman daytime skeins confirmed to debut in 2010.

And according to tvnewscheck.com, America's Court will also run on
 one of Entertainment Studios six high-definition cable networks that were 
launched on Verizon's FiOS broadband systems last September.





America's Court with Judge Ross shows litigants unique ways in which they can responsibly deal with their unlawful or wrongful acts, and also forces wrongdoers to reflect on the consequences of their transgressions.

Kevin A. Ross, 46, has been a judge, prosecutor and media personality
 in Southern California. He is also president and CEO of 3BAAS Media Group, which will serve as a producer on the show.

Source

DEATH OF BLACK MEDIA: Is Ebony Magazine Really Up For Sale?

Who Will Tell Our Stories, The Internet?

The outlook for the Holy grail of black-owned publishing companies, Johnson Publishing, is bleak. Actually, beyond bleak.

Non-stop speculation has had Ebony and Jet magazines on the ropes for some time. Then the Ebony Fashion Fair traveling fashion show -- a flamboyant staple of black women's fund raising efforts since 1958 -- was canceled for the first time in its history.

And now comes word that the company synonymous with Black America is putting its flagship title, Ebony, up for sale.

According to Newsweek, Johnson Publishing's chairman and CEO, Linda Johnson Rice, is seeking a buyer or investor in an effort aimed at securing the survival of the nation's oldest African-American magazine. It's unclear whether the company's other properties, including Jet, would be part of a possible sale.

We here at 3BAAS Media Group have been addressing this issue for some time and even held an Urban New Media Conference in June to discuss what actions should be taken.

According to those familiar with the developments, Chicago-based Rice, the daughter of Ebony's legendary founder, the late John H. Johnson, has approached, among others, Time Inc., Viacom, and private investors that include buyout firms. Time Inc., the world's largest periodical publisher, already owns Essence, a monthly lifestyle, beauty, and fashion magazine for African-American women.

Viacom, meanwhile, owns BET (Black Entertainment Television). Nothing has yet resulted from any of Johnson Publishing's overtures, however. And it's unclear whether negotiations are underway between the publishing company and any of the identified parties or other potential rescuers.

It's a challenging time for print media in general, so Johnson Publishing's plight is not that unusual. Add to that the question of whether the brand can stay relevant with younger blacks, and prospects look even worse.

The fact that black-owned Johnson Publishing faces this juncture during the year when a black man -- one whose social circle the CEO belongs to -- took the White House, is tragically ironic.

Still, no magazine holds the place in the collective heart of African Americans that Ebony has had since its inception in 1945. At the same time, the level of superiority and arrogance the company has shown can not be ignored. On several occasions we have heard people express frustration over how they tried to take the company in a direction that embraced New Media and kept readers fully engaged.

Even as recent as a few months ago at the 2nd Annual Blogging While Brown conference, several attendees where mumbling about Eric Easter, Chief of Digital Strategy for Johnson Publishing. For many, Mr. Easter was coming across like he had all the answers as opposed to engaging those in the audience that have demonstrated an ability to create an online presence.

Currently, Johnson Publishing only has one photographer, Valarie Garrett, to cover the entire country for both Ebony and Jet. So even the images they once prided themselves on now coming from the record companies, studios, the celebrities themselves, or companies like Wire Image.

So the million dollar question is, "What we gon' do now???"

Source

The Kevin Ross Show Takes On The "Evil" Barack Obama, The "Strange" Van Jones, The "Disturbed" Maia Campbell and The "Bizarre" Kinsey Collection

NOT!

Although now that we have your attention, make sure you tune in Wednesday 09-09-09 as Boss Ross talks all about the controversial issues everyone's buzzing over.

What's your reaction to the insanity surrounding Barack Obama? What's next for Van Jones? How is Maia Campbell doing after the video tape looking not quite herself went viral.

Plus, we'll take you inside The Kinsey Collection, debuting this week at the Mary Brogan Musuem in Tallahassee, Florida. That's 7:00pm PST tonight, only on Blogtalkradio.

President Obama Gets Deeper Into The Health Care Debate, Embraces Internet Talk With Blogtalkradio Appearance

This Guy Gets It... New Media That Is!

You know that 3BAAS Media Group has been using Blogtalkradio for almost two years now. We've produced The Content Black Woman, and the ongoing Current Events program The Kevin Ross Show. So while this incredible platform is not new to us, when Barack Obama decides to get on board, it's a whole new ballgame.

President Obama will be making an appearance on a special program called “40 Minutes For Health Reform” which will stream live exclusively on Blogtalkradio. Specifically, the Commander-in-Chief's part will be the last 10 minutes of the show after he listens in on the first 30 minutes during which there will be a roundtable discussion about the topic with the leaders of the non-profit group, Faithful America

“I’ve been impressed by how President Obama has adopted innovative social-media technology during his campaign and into his administration,” says Alan Levy, CEO of Blogtalkradio. “We’re honored that he has selected BlogTalkRadio as his newest requisite platform for communicating directly with the American people.”

Tech Crunch has all the details.

Rev. Al Sharpton Takes Media To Task About Michael Jackson, Ends Up Saving A Soul!

(Terrence, right, with CA Assemblyman Mike Davis)

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” has 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

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.

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.

Radio One Loses 60 Million This Year & Ebony Magazine Now Only Has 1 Photographer. Are We Losing Black Media?

After the 1st Annual Urban New Media conference sponsored by 3BAAS Media Group, a clarion call was made to address the bleak condition rapidly unfolding with black owned newspapers, radio stations, magazines and television outlets. It's time to be the change we want to see.

On Wednesday, June 10 at 7:00pm PST, respected African Americans in media will discuss how a new generation of black entreprenuers are determined to continue telling the stories of our history, celebrating our culture, and providing our perspective. Tune in to The Kevin Ross Show on Blogtalkradio as Boss Ross reveals what tradtional media is doing, and how new media is taking things to a whole new level.

We also reveal the results of the media survey completed by the recently formed New Urban Media Group on Facebook.

The call-in number is (347)945-5939. Don't miss it

LA County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, KJLH Radio GM Karen Slade Among Speakers At Online Conferenece For African Americans

“Embracing the Digital Renaissance” the Urban New Media Panel at the 4th Annual BEYOND BROADCAST Symposium At USC

The USC Annenberg School For Communication is the place to be June 4 as a distinguished panel of black leaders discuss blogs, social networks, mobile applications and how technology is changing how people of color communicate. Read the bios of the folks who are at the forefront of the new tech movement.

Against the backdrop of the 2008 nationally historic election, Los Angeles County voters made their own mark on history by electing the Honorable Mark Ridley-Thomas the first African America male ever to serve on the County Board of Supervisors.

Prior to his election to the Board representing the 2nd District, Supervisor Ridley-Thomas served the 26th District in the California State Senate, in the state Assembly, and as a member of the Los Angeles City Council. Ridley-Thomas was also Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus.

KJLH Radio Vice President and General Manager Karen Slade is meeting the business challenges of the largest advertising revenue market with aggressive targets, creative sales strategies and client focused program offerings. During Karen’s tenure, KJLH has been awarded the distinguished George Foster Peabody Award for significant and meritorious achievement, as well as the NAACP Image Award for Humanitarian broadcast efforts.

With a Telecommunications Degree and Masters in Business Administration, Karen Slade also sits on the board of Directors for the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters.

Rev. Mark Whitlock started Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Irvine, CA with five members. Today, the church has two thousand members and has recently built a new thirteen thousand square feet sanctuary. Rev. Mark is also CEO of Nehemiah Ministries, a nonprofit economic development corporation for the AME Church, and Director of the Passing the Mantle Program at USC School of Religion’s Center for Religion and Civic Culture.

Rev Whitlock is a strong proponent of using social media tools to effectively communicate with members of his congregation, particularly the youth.

Jasmyne Cannick is a lot of things, but just a blogger she is not. Known for addressing the issues that others can’t or simply won’t, Jasmyne is a LA based critic and commentator who writes about the intersection of pop culture, race, class, and politics as played out in the African-American community.

An award-winning journalist, Jasmyne was selected as one of ESSENCE Magazine’s 25 Women Shaping the World. She currently works as a political consultant on state and local campaigns.

While Rolonda Watts is a versatile actress and television personality, most recognize her as host of the eponymous Rolonda show. With a Masters degree from Columbia University, the former daytime syndicated talk show host also has a burgeoning voiceover career. She is currently the announcer of the courtroom show Judge Joe Brown and the voice of Professor Wiseman in the PBS Kids animated program Curious George.

As CEO/president of Watts Works Productions, the Emmy nominated journalist is looking to launch an online talker in late 2009.

Moderator Kevin Ross is president and CEO of 3BAAS Media Group, an online strategic marketing and branding firm for clients seeking to merge traditional communications tools with new media sensibilities.

The former prosecutor and superior court judge also has an extensive background in media, having hosted his own show on Talkradio 790 KABC, as well as a regular legal segment on PBS local affiliate KCET. He currently has the top online Current Events radio program on Internet-based Blogtalkradio.

1st Annual Urban New Media Conference for African Americans To Be Held at USC

Join African American leaders from the Greater Los Angeles area as we examine the current state of black media and best practices on innovations in online communications at the 1st Annual Urban New Media Conference sponsored by 3BAAS Media Group.

This panel is a part of the 2009 Beyond Broadcast Symposium taking place at University of Southern California's Annenberg Center June 3-6.

Confirmed Panelists:

LA County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas
KJLH Radio General Manager Karen Slade
Christ our Redeemer Pastor Mark Whitlock
Political Consultant and Journalist Jasmyne Cannick
Actress & Media Personality Rolonda Watts

Moderated by Kevin Ross, 3BAAS Media Group

With the theme, "Embracing the Digital Renaissance" the panel will explore how the Internet is being used among different constituencies. We will also discuss the implications of digital and other technologies for the future of reaching communities of color, employment opportunities and the latest in mobile applications. An important aspect of the panel will be to build lasting virtual and real world bridges across the spectrum of organizations and ideas in the public information space.

The afternoon forum provides an opportunity for media, academia, politicians, business and the technology sector to convene to chart the course African Americans have already embarked on as the Internet re-imagines how society receives news, information and entertainment. The goal is to identify opportunities where these conversations will produce the highest value in the United States and abroad.

Seating is limited so attendees are strongly encouraged to RSVP. For those unable to attend, the free event will also stream live via the Internet. (Parking is not included). Hope to see you there!
For more information go to the 4th Annual Beyond Broadcast Conference website

Media Contact: dwayne.foster@3baas.com or check out our event page on facebook.

State of The Black Union 2009 - 10 Years Later, Any Progress?

ARE WE CREATINNG AN AMERICA AS GOOD AS ITS PROMISE?

Love him or hate him, you have to give it to Tavis Smiley for his ability to gather some of the most influential thinkers, entertainers, and political leaders of our time each year to discuss the state of the Black America. This year is no execption, as Smiley holds court in Los Angeles this weekend during Black History Month.

One of C-Spans most popular live programs, the 2009 State of the Black Union celebrates its 10th anniversary of historic conversations. As Americans celebrate the inauguration of our new President, along with other important national, state, and local elections, this year’s panels examine the role that African Americans can and must play to create an America as good as its promise, from health to housing, criminal justice to environmental justice, and education to economic prosperity.

Panelists from the first State of the Black Union in 1999 will return and take center stage to address and undress the media images and social realities of African Americans.

This year there will be a blogger's panel, featuring the like of Carmen Dixon of All About Race, Lenny McAlister of Hip Hop Republican, and yours truly, Kevin Ross of 3BAAS Media Group. Trust me, it's going to be very interesting.

Blogtalkradio Relaunches Website As Internet Radio Continues Explosive Growth

Finally ready to host your own online radio show? Well, 2009 is poised to be the year that social networking sensation Blogtalkradio becomes mainstream as more and more listeners flock to the Internet and talk assumes the top spot for terrestrial stations.

3BAAS Media Group CEO Kevin Ross was asked to beta-test the site and it looks like some of his recommendations were actually used.

Today, January 5 is the official launch day of the new site at Blogtalkradio.com. Allowing anyone with a phone and a computer to be the next Rush Limbaugh, people from all over the world are able to listen, call in live, cyber-chat with the host and also hear the downloaded rebroadcast. 3BAAS has been doing shows for a year now and our clients have found it to be an extraordinary marketing tool.

And what's particularly unique is that you can do it for free. Now ideally, we would have like to have seen less content on the home pages. The old sight was sleeker and much easier to navigate. Overall, however, the site is still incredible and will only further solidify Blogtalkradio as the best online destination for great content and diverse opinions.

Particularly for African Americans and women, who continue to be marginalized in traditional syndicated radio despite the huge numbers wanting to work in the conservative leaning, predominantly white male industry.

Ross and McLaughlin’s New Web-Based Syndicated Talker "Game On!" Takes Center Court on Blogtalkradio

One week after their eponymous radio show bested 1000’s of other Blogtalkradio (BTR) programs and claimed the number one spot, online teammates Kevin Ross and David McLaughlin are now preparing to launch their new Internet syndicated show Game On!

Debuting Tuesday December 2 at 8:00pm EST, “Game” is for fans hungry for smart, edgy talk. A spirited West Coast-East Coast, conservative-liberal, black-white take on the week’s most provocative political issues, Ross and McLaughlin will also feature “Satirical Soapbox” commentary from Boston Herald blogger John Breneman and RaidRadioNow.com’s Shomari McKenzie, as well as newsmakers from inside and out the Beltway.

When Blogtalkradio paired the winners of Fox News Radio’s Battle of the Blog Talkers together for their first outing “Exit Poll 08”, they knew they had something special. “Kevin Ross and David McLaughlin delivered six hours of talk that proved to be very successful with an online community wanting to discuss Obama’s historic win and the future of the Republican Party,” said Philip Recchia, director of programming for Blogtalkradio. “With their dynamic personalities, this show will be anything but politics as usual.”

Ross, an African American Republican straight out of Hollywood central casting, is a former judge turned small business entrepreneur and GOP party strategist. McLaughlin, a white Southern Baptist who teaches and coaches youth football on the weekends, is also a rabid Democratic loyalist and the newly selected director of Heading Left, one of two political channels currently featured on BTR.

With Congress set to debate the merits of the Fairness Doctrine in 2009, Blogtalkradio’s technology and marketing of its hosts demonstrate how conservative leaning talk radio can remain censor-free, while still being inclusive to diverse opinions and perspectives.

"Given what’s currently going on with the economy, traditional media is now open to innovative cross promotions with emerging media," said Ross, who hosted a weekend talk show on 790 KABC in Los Angeles. “Our 60 minute program will have all the features of regular shows, plus we’ll be able to engage folks in our interactive chat room and have it immediately available on demand.”

Currently the most popular hosts on BTR, a number of radio outlets have expressed interest in carry Ross and McLaughlin on their station’s websites to deliver increased value to not only their audience, but also those advertisers looking to obtain maximum exposure. 3BAAS Media Group expects to begin securing stations in the 1st Quarter of 2009.

“Internet talk is the new frontier, allowing the Clear Channels, Citadels and Premiere Radios of the world who dominate the syndicated market to have an additional tool in their arsenal," said McLaughlin. “I’m excited to co-host what will definitely be a full court press on the political issues of the day.”

About Blogtalkradio

Launched in 2006, BlogTalkRadio is a free, web-based talk radio platform allowing any user with a phone and a computer to host as well as produce a live, interactive show -- no downloads or extra equipment are needed. The world’s largest online radio network, each show can accommodate unlimited live listeners and chat room visitors. Upon completion of the program, it is automatically archived as a podcast. Since the company’s launch, thousands of men and women from divergent backgrounds and languages have broadcast more than 100,000 shows. Notable guests include President-Elect Barack Obama, Senator John McCain, actor Brad Pitt, film director Brian DePalma, former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield, artist Yoko Ono and Academy Award winning actress and singer Jennifer Hudson, among others.

Nick Cannon And Actress Jennifer Freeman Want You At The 2008 Farmers Angel City Classic

Flanked by notable business, community and political leaders, Black Educational Events CEO John T. Fleming officially announced today at the famed Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum that the Farmers Insurance Group Angel City Classic will be held Saturday, September 27, 2008 at 2:00p.m.(PDT).

To the hot beats of the Dorsey High School Drumline, Fleming went on to say that a major network has expressed "very strong interest" in nationally televising the game.

"In the Los Angeles Unified School District alone, there is a 40% dropout rate among African Americans and over 30% for Latinos. We are here to spotlight the importance of education for our youth," according to Fleming. "This is about more than just a football game. It's about a generation that needs to see for themselves what Historically Black Colleges and Universities truly have to offer."

While his younger brother is on board to sing "Lift E'vry Voice" at the event, acclaimed actor, writer and producer Nick Cannon will also be touting the exciting match-up between Morehouse College and Prairie View A&M University through his "Stop Hating" campaign. "My organization's goal is to erase all negativity in the minds and hearts of our communities. To stop the hating of ourselves, other races, classes and cultures," said Cannon.

"My Wife And Kids" star Jennifer Freeman was also at the press conference to lend her support.
3BAAS Media Group put on the press conference at the Coliseum and is now planning a community breakfast to garner additonal support from the local churches and schools.

The 3rd annual Classic will feature a championship Pop Warner football match-up, a tailgate party co-sponsored by Coors, vendor booths, a $5,000 King and Queen Scholarship Competition, the highly anticipated McDonald's "Battle of The Bands" halftime show, and the newly added 5th Quarter concert featuring Oscar-winning music icon Isaac Hayes, courtesy of Stax Records -- a division of Concord Music Group.

With a history of community outreach and activism such as the 1970's Wattstax music festival,Stax has lined up several surprise artists to pay tribute to Hayes. The label is also joining forces with "Declare Yourself" to ensure that the 80,000 people in attendance participate in the upcoming November presidential election. The organization's founder, legendary television producer/philanthropist and Concord Music Group Co-Owner Norman Lear, created Declare Yourself specifically to empower and encourage young people to vote.

Other entities endorsing the Classic include KJLH 102.3, KDAY 93.5, Hot 92 Jamz, 94.7 The Wave, KTLA Channel 5, Time Warner, Tri Destined Studios and both the Los Angeles Sentinel and Our Weekly newspapers.

Popular LA radio personality Cliff Winston will be providing play-by-play commentary of the game, as well as announcing the winner of the Farmers BMW which will be given away to one lucky person who joins the sweepstakes.

"We are honored to be the title sponsor of the Angel City Classic, particularly the Scholarship Gala September 26," noted Farmers Insurance Group CEO Paul Hopkins. "Farmers National United Negro College Fund Scholarship program will announce three scholarships for college students who are in their 2nd, 3rd or 4th year attending an HBCU or UNCF school at the gala."

"It is Farmers' way of saying we care about young people who could use a helping hand as they pursue a college education. What better way to let them know that they deserve a good education and can achieve their goals in life because scholarships are available to help. We couldn't be more proud about helping these students achieve their dreams in life," explained Faye W. McClure, Farmers Vice President of Strategic Marketing.

Tickets for the event are available through Inglewood Tickets, Nix Check Cashing, Ticketmasters and the Los Angeles Coliseum. For a full list of sponsors, information concerning dates, times, activities as well as important updates, go to Angel City Classic.

Historic Blogging While Brown Conference Highlights Increasing Role Technology is Playing With African Americans

This Is So Much Bigger Than We Realize

By Valencia Roner

While you may not immediately take note of the hundreds of bloggers gathering in Atlanta this weekend, a closer inspection should peak your interest.

That’s because the 1st Annual “Blogging While Brown” conference July 25-27 at the Georgia World Congress Center will launch what many believe is yet another milestone in blacks both in the United States and abroad collectively flexing their “online” muscle.

How much of this is due to presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama’s phenomenal success mobilizing donors and volunteers with just a click of a mouse remains to be seen. But in a USA Today article discussing the recent Radio One study about African Americans, the so-called digital divide that previously was leaving behind minorities and others without Internet access has narrowed greatly. About 68% of blacks spend time online, the survey found, compared with 70% of all Americans, according to other surveys.

Gina McCauley, founder of What About Our Daughters was instrumental in organizing the historic international event and is ecstatic about the unprecedented gathering of individuals already perched atop prime cyber real estate.

"The Internet is a Wild Wild West and we don't have to go through the NAACP," says McCauley, a 30-something personal injury attorney hailing from Austin, Texas. Along with other bloggers who regularly post commentary or video about politics, alternative lifestyles, entertainment, sports and culture, McCauley is among a small cadre of blacks who have mastered the intricate dance of pursuing social change through advertiser supported social networking.

With an intensity that caught Essence Magazine’s eye and resulted in McCauley being named one of the publication’s Top 25 Black Women of 2007, Gina has become the “go to sister” on issues “sisters” want to dissect and take on.

And she’s not alone. Arlene Fenton of Black Women Vote has also emerged as someone to watch who will be at the “Blogging While Brown” conference. A regular guest on NPR’s News & Notes with Farai Chideya, Fenton has even branched into producing and hosting her own Internet radio show, “The Queen’s Council.”

Kevin Ross is traveling from Los Angeles to speak on one of the panels entitled “Can
New Media Work with the Old Guard and Old Media?” Establishing his company 3BAAS Media Group after he and his business associates started blogging at 3 Brothers And A Sister, the former judge and terrestrial radio host turned strategic marketing CEO understands that networking is a prime motivation for many attending. But for Ross, it’s also about finally meeting individuals with whom he has corresponded, or whose blogs he enjoys reading.



“I really like Electronic Village, Dallas South and even the gossip site Necole Bitchie,” said Ross. “These folks are intelligent, highly sophisticated entrepreneurs who are blazing a trail for other blacks who still have no idea as to the opportunities available on the Web.”

While Ross is planning to give a full debriefing of the conference on his popular Blogtalkradio program after it’s over, Shwana Ruth-Bridges, a talented corporate attorney blogger who goes by Attorneymom, will be broadcasting live.

And one of the highlights of this 3-day landmark event will be the technology keynote by Angela Conyers-Benton and Markus Robinson of Black Web 2.0 Their “Ultimate Blog Experience” workshop will help minority blog publishers enhance the functionality and appearance of their blog, implement traffic building strategies, utilize widgets to their advantage, and develop engaging content.

In the comment section of the conference’s blog, one attendee with the initials WD put it this way, “Looking forward to this event! Finally hooking up with tech/blog crazed brown people, lol. Let’s have fun and serious discussions and leave the ‘egos’ home--You know what I'm saying…”

If we don’t, it probably won’t be long before we’re all reading about or watching it at WD’s blog.

It’s name?

Black Internet Television!

Valencia Roner serves as Vice President of Operations for 3BAAS Media Group, LLC. She writes for the blogs Diary of a Content Black Woman, Three Brothers and a Sister, and No Cream, No Sugar. Valencia also hosts the Content Black Woman Show on BlogTalkRadio and will serve as a moderator for one of the Blogging While Brown panels.

The 3rd Annual Angel City Classic Is Coming To Los Angeles September 27th

3BAAS Media Group has been retained to do all media and branding for the upcoming Black collge football event in Los Angeles that will have Southern California buzzing. Please help us get the word out in our effort to support HBCU's.