Media Central -- 2003-2004

FOCUS '03 -- The People Behind the Camera
MeneMAC Mini Conference October 2, 2003

On a day that they normally would spend resting up after exam week, MeneMAC students instead reported to school at 8 in the morning to particpate in FOCUS '03--a sharing by professionals in the field of broadcast journalism and video production. They signed up for workshops conducted by KITV news anchor Paula Akana, KHET Executive Producer Stuart Yamane, KITV Productions Tech Darryl Harada, and student videographers DJ Ramos, Alisa Dang, and Melissa Taraya.



Brent Suyama, Managing Editor of the KITV website and MOHS alumnus, kicked things off with a video montage and the inside scoop on the fast paced world of video journalism. Emcees Fiona Teresa Munoz and Gerald Rojo II kept things moving right along. And Dan Hale, Learning Center Coordinator, gave an example of how MeneMAC rises above the crowd!

Stuart Yamane shared his creative process in the production of the highly acclaimed WWII documentary, "Journey of Honor" and gave students a first hand look at the "story" that makes history come alive. Paula Akana gave students a behind the scenes look at life in the newsroom and captivated students with colorful glimpses of her journalism career. Alisa and Melissa and DJ described their productions, "Where's Abe?" and "Permutations."

Student Reflections
When making videos like History Day or fictional productions I need to realize that having a good story is more important than the flash. Communication is first priority.
...if you want to do something and you have your heart set on it then go after and don't listen to people who say you can't do it, it's too hard...
You have inspired me to pursue a career in the field of journalism.
You have made history come alive for me...

The presenters inspired me in showing me how beautiful video production could really be, like how big of an impact media really does have. It kind of makes me proud to be a part of MeneMAC and drives me to be better in it.