Talking to Townsend Pt. 2

By A.man.I
Here's part two of a conversation I had with Black Family Channel's CEO Robert Townsend. In part one he spoke about his Hollywood career, and his breaks in the business. This time he talks about working for Black Family Channel.

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Reporter Training Program

by A.man.I
This could be a great opportunity for broadcasting students. It's called the "Minorities in Broadcating Training Program." I haven't heard of the organization, but here's the link. The deadline is February 15th. I learned almost everything I know about broadcast journalism through a reporter trainee program. Believe me, it's work.

Talking to a News Photographer

From A.man.I

It would be impossible to create television news without the expert eye of the photojournalists who often capture timeless moments through the lens of their cameras. Sometimes called "shooters," a news cameraman/woman is the backbone of any news operation. They sometimes work as reporters asking questions, they often edit their video as well, and for any reporter, your photographer should be your best friend while out in the field.

I've met and worked with some of the best in the business, both young and veteran. What many share, is a passion for both journalism, and photography. I recently interviewed one of my former co-workers, Becky Kagan who works at WTVT-TV. She's much more than a news shooter.

Anyone who's interested in taking nice pictures, should heed her sound advice.
LiquidProductionOnline

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Interview with Robert Townsend pt. 1

From A.man.I

You may remember Robert Townsend from the movies, "Hollywood Shuffle," or "The Five Heartbeats," or the sitcom "The Parenthood." What you may not know, is that Townsend is also the President of Production at Black Family Channel.

Though I work with him, we only occasionally cross paths, and I recently took advantage of an opportunity to talk to him about his career in showbiz.

Below is part one of the interview.

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USF Game Day - Episode 3

From A.man.I

Congratulations to the University of South Florida Bulls. The team defeated the ECU Pirates in the first ever PapaJohns.com Bowl.

If you couldn't make it, check out the video below.



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USF Walk Through - Episode 2

From A.man.I

The USF Bulls visit Birmingham's Legion Field for a pre-game walk through, and Jim Leavitt talks about his expectations before the PapaJohns.com Bowl.

Watch below.



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RIP Gordon Davis

From A.man.I
I've just learned that a former co-worker of mine has passed. I worked only briefly with Gordon Davis back in 1998. He was the overnight photographer, when I worked as a freelance assignment editor at WJLA-TV. It was my first official TV job out of college.

Listening to police scanners for breaking news, and answering viewer calls in the middle of the night was hardly glamorous. Working on the desk meant that I would also have to assign Davis to cover fires, crimes, and accidents. I think I only spoke to him face-to-face once or twice, but we spoke often by phone throughout the morning shift. He was always patient, and helpful, even though I was very green, and inexperienced.

Watch the tribute to Davis here.