And That's the Way it Was - A Look at CNN 30 Years Ago

What was the newsroom like at CNN in another era? Our own Bro Michael Hessing will take us inside the room where the big-impact decisions were made on what we saw on our small screens. He's the Table Lodge Speaker for our March 17 OLM at Congregation Or Hadash.

Michael is a nearly 40-year veteran of the television broadcasting and production industries with a strong knowledge of writing, producing, interviewing, editing and directing. His creative talents have greatly contributed to the development of television programming and promotion, and media education.

Michael will take our group back 30 years to a time when news was more balanced, and he will show two or three videos that demonstrate that goal. One will be about distinguished CNN Journalist Bernard Shaw.  Another will show how the media covered presidents from 1904 to 1992. The third video will show how to promote news coverage with facts and balance. He also will discuss experiences with several well-known journalists and share snippets from his time in the industry.

Any questions about today's headlines in politics will NOT be answered. This discussion is about news coverage.

Among his accomplishments, Michael has served as Creative Director and Director of Special Projects for CNN Creative Services. He spearheaded, produced and wrote spots for CNN International’s broadcasts in hotels and embassies overseas…helping to increase viewership worldwide. His award-winning creative efforts have been instrumental in launching programs on CNN International, CNN fn, CNNSI, CNN En Espanol, the CNN Airport Network, and as Manager of the CNN Medical Unit.

After leaving the corporate world, Michael turned to academia, becoming a dedicated instructor and campus coordinator. He taught the essence of news production and advertising to eager students at the Connecticut School of Broadcasting (Atlanta Campus). As a mentor, Michael guided and placed graduates in jobs and internships.

After retiring in 2023, Michael creates videos for family clients. He also works with autistic kids as a volunteer radio coach…on-air, at the Lionheart Life Center radio studio.

Place: Congregation Or Hadash, 7460 Trowbridge Road, Sandy Springs
Time: 7 p.m. for schmooze and snacks, OLM at 7:30, Table Lodge at 8:15
Dress Code: Business Casual

OLM is for HOD Brethren only. Table Lodge is open to all, RSVP Required.