Happy 2009... 2008 The Year of Reality

Happy 2009... Glad to see you

It's 5 hours and counting and I am elated with glee that a new year is ushering. I must say that lessons learned, friendships lost, friendships restored and opportunities missed and secured all made 2008... a year of growth and reflection.

Can't say that I will miss you. Go on with your bad self.

It was the year that I actually admitted that after giving birth to my daughter that I experienced some form of postpartum depression. Yes, I am far from perfect.

2008 made me actualize many things ...

1) the completion of my book, "You Want Caviar But Have Money For Chitlins ~ A Smart Do-It-Yourself PR Guide For Those On A Budget." The baby is a healthy 108 pages of do-it-yourself PR advice, getting TOP media folks to notice your product and increasing one's revenue stream. Pick up your copy in January at all outlets and especially - www.karentaylorbass.com. This is 7 years in the making --- a check off my list.

2) my office space in downtown Hempstead, LI, the empowerment zone

3) getting involved in the PTA -- this requires a lot of time and commitment

4) creation of my successful radio show on Blogtalk -- www.blogtalkradio.com//Caviar--Chitterling

5) admitting i am not superwoman, human with scars

6) taking the strong pill and being the 'PR Expert'

7) writing a check to the Obama campaign

8) giving my biological dad a chance to know me

9) being published in The Network Journal, Black Enterprise and the NY Daily News

*most importantly, appreciating and loving my husband and kids-- one of the purest gifts from God

things i wasn't proud of in 2008...

1) not realizing that I had bouts of postpartum depression (sooner)
2) being short fused with friends
3) settling... just because.

Well, its time to eat dinner and be thankful for all the new insights.

Here's to a blessed, prosperous and healthy 2009. Hear me ROAR.


Peace & Much Love,

Karen

Kudos To TV1- Debarge Mania Continues

DeBarge.

Bunny, Mark, Randy, James, Eldra, Chico and the list goes on and on...

Let me say for this entry I will be the ultimate groupie.

I remember their big night at Radio City Music Hall in New York, I was in the 10th row with my girls, 17 years old, a fly cutie from Queens, knew all the words and it was the ultimate love at first sight.

The picture you see is how I will always remember The Debarge Family -- a young, talented, gifted family that SANG lovely.

Have you heard lyrics so pure in "A Dream?" Long live Bunny Debarge -- you wrote some bad lyrics.

I was channel surfing this past weekend, stumbled upon, "Unsung," a behind -the- music type program on my favorite family/group -- DeBarge. Tears of joy and sadness streaming from inside of me. My husband saw me revert to a 17 year old school girl screaming and singing to the TV. What a great feeling? Pure.

As I watched the program I kept thinking what happened? Why the demons?

All I can say is during my tenure as a publicist -- I have worked with many artists battling demons. I can't pretend to understand, I have never been there. I can say that it's tough watching talented people spiral out of control.

It's sad to say this, however, the music industry has never made a point of intervention until their respective bottom-line is compromised. They must do better.

The Debarge Family story is very commonplace in black America. Talented and gifted people not reaching their potential. Drugs and more drugs.

Why don't we have a better coping mechanism for entertainers? I learned watching "Unsung," that El Debarge was the sole family member that stayed away from drugs until the stress mounted and became too much. Who protects the artists? I can tell you from experience that the artists are sold to the highest bidder by their family, friends, lawyers, executives, etc. Everyone wants to be associated with fame, success and money -- no one wants to be around the strung out artists. I ask you, who will protect the entertainers?

Check out this great fan site - www.debargenetwork.com.

I am going to write a letter to El Debarge (no, i don't know him), who was recently arrested for drug possession, vandalism and domestic violence AND let him know that there is a space for real talent. No worries about ageism ... just sing like you did at Radio City Music Hall.

I missed the first half hour and must say TV-One can you please tell a sister when you are running these shows so I can spread the word?

A Bold New America

Yes We Can. A Bold New America

As I write these few lines I am so passionately overwhelmed and excited. I know its been said so many times, so indulge me again...

At 41, a Caribbean woman, naturalized as a citizen of America at 17, I never thought I would see this moment in my lifetime. My kids will know that all is possible.

In 2004, while on my honeymoon in Hawaii, I was watching a program on Barack Obama, it was at that moment I knew he was a chosen prophet.

Don't be scared.

Think about it.

Barack Obama has not only uplifted African Americans, he has transformed the country with a new movement. The perception of Blacks and Americans will never be the same. Internationally we will be a force again. Obama's background with a father from Kenya, a mother from Kansas, and the move to Hawaii with a multi-diverse family is one for the scriptures.

Let Obama's words of 'change' and 'hope' carry us as we empower ourselves to do better and be the best.

Now on to the 'other' stuff.

As a PR Expert, this is the BEST example of a strategic marketing, branding and PR campaign. I have always said that an outstanding campaign starts with the PEOPLE (grassroots) and you build your team from the bottom up. Stay on message and break down the box. Team Obama did that and so much more.

For the sistahs. A true and proud Black woman in the White House. We are back in style ladies.

A Bold New America.

Vote Baby Vote

Vote Baby Vote.
The fight for the right to vote for blacks was bloody... many who fought did not make it
Vote Baby Vote.
When you vote you honor...
Sojourner Truth
Harriet Tubman
Fannie Lou Hamer
Ida B. Wells
Shirley Chisholm
Barbara Jordan
Beah Richardson
Esther Rolle
Ruby Dee
Ossie Davis
Marcus Garvey
Martin Luther King
A. Philip Randolph
SCLC
Black Panthers
Jesse Jackson
Al Sharpton
Your great grand, grand, parents
Your grandbabies
and YOU.

Be entitled. Let your voice be heard and felt. Vote for Change. Vote November 4, 2008
If you can vote now ... do it.
Barack Obama for CHANGE.

The Heat Is On...

My My My... John McCain wants to suspend the presidential campaign and delay the debate this Friday.

The heat is on.

New polls are saying that Americans feel Barack is "more" capable to handle the economy. You don't say?

If you truly want to understand the magnitude of public relations, you must follow the 2008 presidential campaign. Everything from big budget spending, messaging, social networking, celebrity endorsements, spin doctoring, branding, incorporating buzz words like "change," listening to gatekeepers, following respective scandals- trooper-gate, jeremiah wright, pundits getting their 15 minutes of fame, racism, ageism, sexism, elitism and ... let's not forget slogans. "Change We Need," "Reformer" "Hockey Mom In Lipstick," and the list goes on.

Is it just me or is Sarah Palin the new Katie Holmes? Do I really need to explain this?

With the serious Economic crisis, the heat is truly on for a presidential candidate to take a bold stand and protect the working folk. Why should we eat the debt from banks, investment firms and have our children and their children inherit the price tag?

I would love for someone to eat my American Express bill ... feel me?

The Heat Is On.

Mom-Preneur, Fasting, Rollerskating & Balance

Hi, the fast is not going so well. Went strong for 3 days and was so darn famished had to devour a slice of bread on Sunday. Yes, I was seeing the benefits from the fast but with 2 kids ... that might not be too smart for the next 17 days. So, today I did something old school...worked out and juiced. Realizing there really isn't any miracle pill for weight loss. Got to put the work in, same way I packed it on.

The word "balance" is truly coveted for all women. I am reading, watching, and social networking and can't miss seeing Sarah Palin's name popping up everywhere for the poster child for "Career Balance." How can she balance campaigning for the McCain-Palin ticket, running Alaska, taking care of young kids especially, a 4 month old? Hats off to her. I am here scratching my head and wondering how come I can't pull it together with a 15 month old and a 8 year old AND I have an amazing babysitter? The reason is because pulling it together takes time. No one wants to talk about what happens after you give birth, breastfeed and attempt to get back on script. Firstly, the hormones are off the chart. Secondly, the memory is simply silly putty the first two years and secondly, sleep deprivation is no joke and couple that with weight gain, working full time and "taking" care of your husband. Now some woman truly do have it together and never miss a beat. To them I say, "good for you and stop frontin'."

Let's call it what it is ... depression meets unrealistic goals coupled with superwoman complex is what happens to most women after giving birth. Yes, its a joyous occasion, however, as you get older and become a slave to routine the moment that is compromised can truly make you imbalance.

For those thinking that Sarah Palin has it all together should truly re-think this media brainwash. What happens after the light goes down, the interview has ended, and the teleprompter is turned off? I'll tell you -- depression meets unrealistic goals coupled with a superwoman complex.

I promise to make my next entry lighter. Much Love.

It's Friday! Fasting, Blogging and Watching CNN

Happy Friday!
It's raining, the wind is blowing and my kids are asleep. It's P-A-R-T-Y T-I-M-E!!!!
Time to regroup, take a bath, light a candle, right my blog and have face time with my hubby. Somehow balance keeps eluding me.

So, I have been fasting for the past 2 days and I have 18 days to go. I decided to fast to usher in the fall, have clarity, rid toxins from my body, and pledge devotion to myself. What I can tell you is that I am sleeping better and drinking 80 ounces of water a day has been pure heaven. For the next several entries I will be updating you on the progress of the fast, my plans for the fall and life. Indulge me (please). Promise to resume to TMM business and PR in a few days.

Since having my daughter (now 15 months), and coordinating the social calendar of my 8 year old son coupled with marriage and biz, I have really let myself go. My wardrobe most days consists of flip flops (albeit Bruno Magli), jeans, t-shirt, and rocking my hair very short. The look is boring, typical and too suburban.

It's time for a change. So, here's the plan...

Saturday will usher in "Karen" day filled with stuff I love to do. Like what? Well, I am taking an African Dance class at Alvin Ailey in the AM, meeting my husband for a date, laughter, and slice of life.

Talk with you later.

ps: Loved the way the Ladies of The View called out John McCain on his double talk, smear tactic and lies. You betta work, Barbara, Whoppi and Joy!

Much Love.

Smell, Taste & Feel ... A New Day

I don't know how to say what I really feel. All week I have been glued to the television and experiencing the magic of the DNC. As an immigrant, entrepreneur, mother, wife, there are so so many things that resonated with the past week and lets not forget the historical nature of a Black man accepting the nomination from a major political party. Can't say enough about Barack's speech last night ... surreal

So many people including my grandmother lived to see this spectacular moment.

I know that America is ready for CHANGE. Pres. Gore said it best ... "I'm all about recycling but this takes the cake ... another four years of the same."

I have witnessed firsthand how my business has suffered from many of the small biz rules enforced by Jr. Bush; the entertainment industry, specifically music, has taken a major nose dive and stocks and investments that were once safe are questionable. Health care, please. At TMM, our monthly small biz health premium for PPO is almost a mortgage which is ridiculous. So, what am I saying? Well, this current administration has jacked up the economy and really made it challenging for everyday people to WIN. No more.

Yes, I know the road won't be easy, however, the core fundamental values on education, health care, tax cuts, foreign policy, care for our veterans, same sex marriage, pro-choice cannot go into the wrong hands. Also, whomever wins the presidential race will nominate 3 to the office of Supreme Court.

Please get involved in the political process. Let's smell, taste, feel and live a new day for the next generation.

ps: I won't even comment on McCain's selection for VP... I don't know enough about Sarah Palin. Will say it is a reaction to the DNC and the magic of change that is in the air.

Let's Talk About Race Baby...

Hello, its been a long time since I posted something. How are you doing? Is the summer treating you well?

So much is going on... gas is up, 4 day work week might become a reality, and we are on the verge of having an African-American in the White House. YEEES!

It is such a surreal thought, when you think that in a few weeks, Barack Obama will go from "presumptive" nominee to Democratic nominee. What will this mean for people of color? And, what about the REAL elephant in the room, the media refuses to talk about ... race and why it matters? CNN has an exit poll every hour and they can't seem to figure what why Barack is stalled in the polls... well, the man is Black, White Americans might want CHANGE but from a Black man is a tough pill to swallow. Feel me? If we are going to change the party occupancy at 1600 pennsylvania ave, folks are going to have to get over the RACE game and get into the CHANGE game. White, Black, Asian, Hispanic, old, young, must vote for a "CHANGE" and that happen with the election of Barack Obama.

TV-One in an unprecedented move will broadcast live from Denver, August 25-28, 8-11pm with an amazing team of journalists: Roland Martin, Hill Harper, Jacque Reid, Michael Eric Dyson, Marcia Dyson and so many more. What I love about this coverage is that TV-One is committed to capturing the Democratic National Convention from the African American angle which has NEVER been done. Let's support TV-One and give them record ratings each night and LET the mainstream media know that we are multi-dimensional and care about a myriad of issues and not just booty shakin' videos.

Tune in to my show Caviar & Chitlins on Tuesday, August 19th, 6:30pm and hear from my guest Susan Banks, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Creative Services at TV-One. Susan Banks will share with us what to expect from TV-One's coverage and why TV-One is going all out to make certain that OUR voices are heard.

One Love!

Karen

Black Moses and the King of Comedy

I truly felt the news of the untimely passing of Bernie Mac and Issac Hayes over the weekend. Both men felt like family ... you know that feeling when you get choked up and say, "I just talked to them?" That is the testament of their POWER, where they impacted my household and you felt like they were family. I did not know them other than brief encounters during work.

I am still in denial about their passing. For me, Issac Hayes was the quintessential Black Man ... African Man... Black Moses. A proud man, wore his African-ness on his sleeve, motivated and inspired tons of generations and created music with heart, love, passion and purpose -- "Hot Buttered Soul." I met Mr. Hayes once when he was the morning DJ at KISS-FM, and I was at the radio station with a client. Let me tell you it was 7:30AM, and this man was not only regal but REAL down to earth and lively. No "star" attitude, just REAL. I became an even bigger fan and follower.

The Mac Man was truly the King of Comedy. I loved the movement of Kings of Comedy movie and how it shattered box-office records and said **** Hollywood, way before there was a Tyler Perry, these men did it their way and motivated us all to take our game to the next level. Deepness. After the success of KINGS, Hollywood never gave them the press and glory they deserved, however, these KINGS became undeniable and masters of all medium. God is good. It was Bernie that made me LOOOOOVE the Kings of Comedy, this man had the gift of storytelling... he was the Toni Morrison of comedy.

My heart goes out to their families, and what a life they LIVED. Thank you for the moments, encouragement, laughter, music, and REGAL-NESS. God Bless Black Moses and The MAC.

Blogging, Pitching, Balancing ...

Hello there!
This is monumental moment for me because I have set up my very own blog. Yeah! Movement is great.

Now don't get me wrong, I am not new to blogging, however, only in the capacity as a contributor (check out PR Distinction). With so much to say, I thought it was time to have my own. Don't you agree?

This blog will help me live my dreams out loud and grow. Currently, I am enjoying the growth of my brand -- Karen Taylor Bass. I have always loved PR, rather passionately and never really understood how to make it work for me and empower people at the same time. Well, I have figured it out.

I am featured in the August issue of Black Enterprise, a dream realized, waiting to hear from Jesse Jackson's camp to appear on my Blogtalkradio.com/Caviar--Chitterling; selling many eBooks per week on educating small biz on PR and how to do it themselves; and, the biggest challenge losing 35 pounds from the birth of my daughter (she is now 13 months). Is there a pill I can take for real weight loss?

As I grow, my relationships are changing exponentially. Folks that I have battle scars with I really don't speak at present. Is that part of growing? Not certain, if you have insights let me know.

Just thoughts... Loved Diddy's show last night on MTV. It really seduced me and truly not a fan of his. Deepness. Can't wait for the Democratic Convention this month, let's see what transpires with Barack, VP elect and Clinton's crazy supporters.

More later.