This is really where it all started for me as far as social media goes.

If you’re ever read a post, or watched a video, I want to truly say, “Thank you.”

It is really incredible watching how the community has grown over the years.

Video has blown up.

Hopefully you’re aware that I’m now teaching at the University of West Georgia, and work in PR.

I can’t share as many media adventures because of the clients that I’m working with.

I have been making more family videos since Devin is now four, and a character.

Here is a video message that we recorded for you.

Have a safe, happy day with your family!

Best,

Amani Channel

HorrificStorms shares a glimpse of life after Sandy.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to grow your network, and develop leadership, civic and political skills, then check out New Leaders Council.

Since 2010, New Leaders Council has been training Atlanta progressives in the business of political and nonprofit work.

NLC calls it political entrepreneurship, and each year, 15-20 Fellows are selected for a mini MBA styled program that focuses on leadership development, fundraising, campaign management, social media and communications.

To get accepted, you have to apply. The NLC is interested in progressive professionals from all industries.

On Wednesday, October 17, the New Leaders Council Atlanta chapter is hosting a Meet the Fellows mixer meet NLC Atlanta alumni, board members, and its founders.

I hope to see you there!

People often ask me, “How did you get into the TV or video production business? Did you go to school for it?”

Yes I did. But that’s only part of the formula. My father repeatedly told me that I had to be better than the best at whatever I did.

I volunteered while in college, and worked on-air and behind the scenes as a producer. One opportunity led to another, and in 1998, I was offered a job in Tampa at WTVT, Fox 13 News.

I probably got the job in part because the news director in Tampa, knew the news director at the Washington D.C. station where I was working at the time. “They” say it’s not what you know, it’s who you know, but it doesn’t end there.

The news business is demanding. You often have to move around. The hours can be down right brutal sometimes and unfair. If you want to work in TV news, get over it.

It’s called paying your dues, and the price can be high.

Watch video on YouTube.

I just ran across this great story from Lawrence Dortch. This guy’s been in the vlogging game longer than me, and he actually inspired me to get started back when I was working at Black Family Channel.

Larry’s site, TodayIFeelLike.com features a mix of tech, tutorials, and random adventures. I have to say, he is on his way to becoming a great storyteller. This is his latest project, “One Punch at a Time,” which shares the story of a young female boxer who has her sights set on the 2012 Olympics.

Larry shot, voiced, and edited the piece. It’s not only a great story, but he shot it like a pro.

What do you think?

Sometimes you don’t need any narration or sound bites. All you need is emotion, and a nice music track.

Read the back story here, and watch this piece of art in motion below.

Nice work John Ledbetter.

by Amani Channel
#snowatl #atlsnow

Even before it started coming down, people were preparing for the 2011 Atlanta snowpacalypse. I heard that the grocery stores were busy with people stocking up on water and supplies so I got on the bandwagon and headed to my local chain.

The scene reminded me of hurricane preps. Some people had gallons of water, the shelves were bare, and the lines were long.

Flakes started falling after dark, and I new that we weren’t going anywhere at least for Monday.

When I woke up, it was a white out. At least four inches fell in my neighborhood in NE Atlanta (I’m just outside the city near Smyrna).

What I thought was hail, was really freezing rain.

This morning I watched the local news coverage thinking about days passed. Though most of the stations are asking people to send in their photos and videos, very few are using very much UGC.

Twitter and Facebook is a bridge to a gold mine of content. Why not take advantage?

In a way, I miss not being out in the elements, but then again, I’m working from home today, looking at my neighborhood from the warmth of my home office.

by Amani Channel