WCTV Journal

Friday, August 08, 2008

Picnic #4

Board Vice President Stephanie Strait sits down with the newest member of my family, Bonnie Mae.

Producer Ralph Wynn playing cornhole on the back patio of Hayes Hall at the WCTV Summer Picnic. This is the photo I took after I dropped my camera on the concrete and tried to prove the camera wasn't broken.

Thursday, August 07, 2008

"Wayne County U" Debuts Tomorrow

During this, our 20th year, Whitewater Community Television has been thinking of ways to remind our viewers what public access television can mean to a community. We feel that educational issues are at the forefront in Wayne County at this time, and we want to contribute to that discourse. We hope that our new weekly program Wayne County U will help provide answers.

Wayne County U is a program produced by WCTV, with local partners, designed to support the educational discussions going on in our community at present.

The program begins airing Friday, August 8 at 8 p.m. on Channel 20, with repeats at midnight Friday and at 4 a.m., 9 a.m., noon, and 4 p.m. Saturday.

Our first programs feature Dave Murray, President, National Center on College Costs, on the FAFSA: Liz Ferris, Coordinator, 21st Century Scholars, on that organization; and Maribeth Yoder, Assistant Director, Office of Financial Aid, Indiana University East, on financial aid information.

We are committed to producing fresh Wayne County U content bi-weekly, with twenty episodes through May 2009. If you are involved in a local educational organization and would like to partner with us on future episodes of this series, please contact me at 973-8488.

Monday, August 04, 2008

Thursday, July 31, 2008

This Weekend at WCTV

I wanted to remind you of some upcoming events this Friday and Saturday at WCTV.

Tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. is our 4th Annual Summer Picnic, to be held at Hayes Hall on the IU East campus. We would like to thank Meijer, Kroger, and the American Legion Post 65 Auxiliary for their support of this event.

For interested local producers, we will again draw the Channel 21 Program Lottery at 5 p.m. at the station, just prior to the picnic.

Local producers should have received their lottery letters by now. If you have not received a letter, or if you would like to be considered for a Channel 21 time slot, please contact me. Our primetime (Tier One) Channel 21 schedule is currently full, so be sure you have returned your materials to ensure your program will be included in tomorrow’s drawing.

As part of WCTV’s 20th Anniversary celebration, we are hosting a local PSA Day, where local not-for-profits can record free public service announcements. During the picnic, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., we will have our studio open with lights, camera, audio, teleprompter, and helpful staff to assist area not-for-profits in recording free thirty-second announcements to be aired on WCTV.

We have had a number of questions about the PSA event. If you would like to know more, feel free to contact me at 973-8488.

Saturday morning we will be offering our 2nd Annual free Video Bootcamp at the studio, beginning at 9 a.m. We will be teaching field and studio production in the morning, break for lunch, and begin iMovie and Final Cut nonlinear editing beginning at 1 p.m.

These free workshops came in response to requests from producers interested in improving their skills, but are also open to the community as a whole as part of our ongoing outreach intended to empower more grassroots video efforts in our community.

We hope you will join us this weekend at WCTV. And again, thank you for your ongoing interest in Whitewater Community Television.

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

June 2008 Board of Directors Minutes

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by President Mark Linderman.

Present: Waketha Downs, Daryl Greene, Robin Henry, Ed Hoffman, Mark Linderman, Eric Marsh, Barb Orbik, Jeff Plasterer, Billy Porch, Larry Price, Phil Quinn, Valerie Shaffer, Stephanie Strait, and Rob Zinkan.
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, and Diane Lucas.

Board President Mark Linderman opened the meeting by asking all members to introduce themselves.

Approval of Minutes
May Minutes: Ed Hoffman moved, with Barb Orbik giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of May 13, 2008. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Orbik presented the Treasurer’s Report for May 2008. Barb noted that May’s report reflects $1035 in additional membership income and $1000 from a grant with Communities in Schools. There are some small expenses shown for the annual meeting. Phil Quinn moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, and the May Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Director’s Report
John Dalton gave an update on current developments in Indiana’s Telecom law to new members, as well as information about the meeting with Comcast in April in Indianapolis.
John met with other public access television groups and the IOUCC (Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor) in Indianapolis in May to discuss ways to work with the IURC (Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission) on the Indiana Telecom law.
John also reported that he gave the yearly presentation to the Wayne County Commissioners for the 2009 budget request. John stated that WCTV has not asked for an increase in funds in the last five years.
John recently sent out a membership renewal reminder letter. We have already received over $200 in renewals from this reminder.
As a part of our 20th anniversary, August 1st at 5:30 p.m. will be our annual picnic. There will also be an opportunity to tape free PSAs for area not-for-profits in the studio on that day in conjunction with the celebration. On August 2nd the free Video Bootcamp will again be offered, beginning at 9 a.m.
As part of the 20th anniversary, the staff has begun working on a new program, Wayne County U. This will focus on education and re-training for the community, and WCTV is committing to 20 episodes between August 2008 and May 2009.
John reported that WCTV will be providing media services for the national celebration of the Model T, to be held in Richmond in July.
The WCTV auction will take place again this winter. John is asking for members to begin thinking about this event and asked for those interested to participate in a committee.
Jason Ashmawi, a Ball State University student, is our summer intern.

Good of the Order
John Dalton thanked the new board members for their attendance and for listening to the “catch up” information.
Larry Price complimented Phil Quinn and John Dalton for their composure during the last Telecommunications meeting.
Daryl Greene thanked WCTV for their full coverage of the Bill Clinton visit. Daryl invited everyone to his 25th anniversary of ordination on June 22 at the Eaton United Church of Christ.

Adjournment - 12:07 p.m.

Friday, June 20, 2008

A WCTV Summer

I wanted to update you on some upcoming events this summer at WCTV.

Friday, August 1st at 5:30 p.m. is our 4th Annual Summer Picnic, to be held at Hayes Hall on the IU East campus. Again this year we will draw the Channel 21 Program Lottery at 5 p.m. in the studio, just prior to the picnic.

Lottery letters to Channel 21 producers will be going out in the next few weeks. If you would like to be considered for a Channel 21 time slot and are not presently on our producer list, please contact me. Our primetime (Tier One) Channel 21 schedule is currently full, so be sure to return your materials promptly to ensure your program will be included in the next drawing.

As part of WCTV’s 20th Anniversary celebration, we have decided to participate in PSA Day, where public access television centers across the United States open their doors for local not-for-profits to record free public service announcements. During the picnic, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., we will have our studio open with lights, camera, audio, teleprompter, and helpful staff to assist area not-for-profits in recording free thirty-second announcements to be aired on WCTV.

The following morning, Saturday August 2nd, we will be offering our 2nd Annual free Video Bootcamp at the studio, beginning at 9 a.m. We will be teaching field and studio production as well as iMovie and Final Cut editing. These free workshops came in response to requests from producers interested in improving their skills, but are also open to the community as a whole as part of our ongoing outreach intended to empower more grassroots video efforts in our community.

We are also using the Summer Picnic to announce the broadcast of Wayne County U, a new program WCTV is producing designed to support the educational discourse going on in our community at present. We are using our 20th Anniversary as a way to remind our viewers what public access television can mean to a community, and we feel that educational issues are at the forefront at this time. We hope that Wayne County U will help provide answers. Our first programs, for the month of August, provide information on the FAFSA and the 21st Century Scholars program.

We are committed to producing twenty episodes of Wayne County U through May 2009. If you are involved in a local educational organization and would like to partner with us on future episodes of this series, please contact me.

We hope you will join us for some of our busy summer at WCTV.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

May 2008 Board Minutes

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by President Mark Linderman.

Present: Waketha Downs, Robin Henry, Ed Hoffman, Mark Linderman, Barb Orbik, Sharon Palmer, and Stephanie Strait.
Proxies: Daryl Greene, Larry Price, and Rob Zinkan.
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, and Diane Lucas.

Mark opened the meeting by introducing two new board members, Waketha Downs and Robin Henry. All members present introduced themselves.

Approval of Minutes
January Minutes: Sharon Palmer moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of January 8, 2008. Minutes approved.
March Minutes: Ed Hoffman moved, with Sharon Palmer giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of March 11, 2008. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Orbik presented the Treasurer’s Report for January, February and March. Barb noted that January was a normal month for the budget, showing little activity. Sharon Palmer moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, and the January Treasurer’s Report was approved.
February’s report did not reflect the payment from the City of Richmond yet, which came slightly later than usual this year. Ed Hoffman moved, with Sharon Palmer giving the second, and the February Treasurer’s Report was approved.
March’s report shows receipt of the money from the City of Richmond. It also reflects $2460.00 income from the membership drive. Barb stated that things are looking food for 2008. Stephanie Strait moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, and the March Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Director’s Report
John Dalton reported that the live primary election returns show was a success. The show featured a round-table discussion with many people just stopping by to be on the air. The show was also unusually long.
Earlham, IU East and Ivy Tech recently had their graduations. All were shown live on WCTV and the staff crewed IU East and Ivy Tech’s ceremonies.
We are almost finished working on a grant with Communities in Schools. John Schuerman is also working on some academic excellence spots for IUE.
Our Continuing Studies classes did not get enough enrollment to hold the classes.
John is planning our annual summer picnic in August and will again offer a free Boot Camp.
John Dalton will attend a meeting tomorrow, May 14th, at the Indianapolis City Hall with the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (IOUCC).
John added more information to his Executive Summary of the City of Richmond’s meeting with Comcast on April 11th.We continue to be on high alert with these issues.
Wayne County has asked WCTV to come and present next year’s budget request. Both County and City governments are predicting cuts in their budgets because of property tax relief. We can look to 2009 and 2010 to see the full effects of these budget cuts.

New Business
Mark Linderman offered additional thoughts on the budget issue and suggested a board retreat in late summer or early fall.
The election of two new members of the executive board took place. For Vice-President, Ed Hoffman moved, with Sharon Palmer giving the second, that Stephanie Strait be named Vice-President. The motion was unanimously carried. For Secretary, Ed Hoffman moved, with Waketha Downs giving the second, that Sharon Palmer be named Secretary. The motion unanimously passed.

Good of the Order
John Dalton thanked the new executive board members and the new board members.

Adjournment - 11:35 a.m.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

March 2008 Board Minutes

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by Vice President Willard Brown.
As there was not a quorum, Brown presided over an informational meeting.

Present: Willard Brown, Ed Hoffman, Jeff Plasterer, Kim Poinsett, Larry Price, Barb Orbik, and Stephanie Strait.
Staff: John Dalton and John Schuerman.

Approval of Minutes
Tabled until May meeting.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Orbik presented information on the 2007 budget year. WCTV ended with approximately $27,000 in profit, raising 102% of operating income with 90% operating expenses.
Orbik presented the January 2008 monthly report.
Orbik recommended the board accept Webb and Associates as the organization’s new auditor.
These votes were tabled.

Director’s Report
Dalton presented info on the annual membership drive conducted in February. The first responses are coming in. Our current mailing list has grown to over 600.
Dalton reported on the Channel 21 Lottery, held February 11. The Channel 21 schedule is nearly full again this time.
Dalton discussed the upcoming meeting with Comcast in Indianapolis, and gave an update on an Alliance for Community Media meeting in Cincinnati he presented at February 22.
Dalton presented potential new board members for the Annual Meeting.
Dalton stated that WCTV’s first live sports broadcast of the IU East Homecoming game was very successful in IUE’s eyes, and they are eager to do more.
Dalton reported that WCTV received a $1,000 grant to produce PSAs for Communities in Schools and 21st Century Scholars as part of a Wayne County Foundation impact grant.

Old Business
Dalton discussed purchasing software upgrades for the production computers to make them more compatible with the new video file server.

New Business
Dalton proposed conducting the Annual Meeting in conjunction with the actual 20th Anniversary of WCTV on Monday, April 7. This vote was tabled.

Adjournment - 11:45 a.m.

January 2008 Board Minutes

As inclement weather canceled February, and there was a lack of quorum in March, the January minutes were voted on in May.

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by President Mark Linderman.

Present: Willard Brown, Daryl Greene, Ed Hoffman, Eric Marsh, Sharon Palmer, Jeff Plasterer, Kim Poinsett, Larry Price, Barb Orbik, and Stephanie Strait.
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, Nick Poling and Diane Lucas.
Guest: Chris Hardie.

Approval of Minutes
Ed Hoffman moved, with Willard Brown giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of December 11, 2007. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Orbik presented the Treasurer’s Report. Barb noted that the franchise payment did not arrive in November as it had in the past; therefore it is reflected in the December report. Barb pointed out the $1183.00 brought in by the Auction.
Jeff Plasterer moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, and the Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Director’s Report
John considers the Auction to be complete with $2,942.00 raised. There is still over $300.00 of unclaimed items that John is talking to the accountants about what to do with.
John reported that the live call-in Santa Show was a success. There were over 45 calls taken during the one-hour show, which also featured about a half-dozen children in the studio.
In March, WCTV will again offer workshops through the Continuing Studies department of IU East. Last year WCTV made about $570.00 with these classes. John also plans to offer the free workshops again in the summer.
The IU East Homecoming game on January 26th at the Tiernan Center will have live coverage from WCTV.
On January 17th the Telecommunications Council will meet. John plans to attend and address the status of the live system with the cable provider as well as report on the regional access center meeting he attended.
John noted that 8 of our 15 board members will have their terms expire this year.
The Wayne County Foundation was awarded an Impact Grant with WCTV participating.
Membership Scholarships were discussed with John offering candidates for scholarships this year. Daryl Green moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, and the two scholarships were unanimously approved.

Old Business
For the 20th Anniversary of WCTV, there will be new station IDs, the Viewfinder Video Magazine, and some special “By Request” shows. Daryl Green noted that this might be a good time to educate the public about just what WCTV is.

Good of the Order
John Dalton thanked Chris Hardie for his attendance at the meeting.

Adjournment - 11:50 a.m.

Friday, May 09, 2008

Cameraman-Eye View

Volunteer Barry Barker snapped this cameraman-eye view of our live Primary Election Returns from behind his tripod.

Live Primary Returns

This is Ball State student Jason Ashmawi, our summer intern. Finally somebody else tall enough to get those high-angle shots.

Camera #3

Barry Barker snapped this shot of board member Billy Porch manning a camera in the early hours of the broadcast.

Live Primary Returns #2

Later ironman Ed Hoffman filled in for Billy Porch. We had our All-Star camera line-up, with former Volunteers of the Year Ed, Billy, and Barry all on the job.

Live Primary Returns Roundtable

A nice shot by Barry Barker of our live Primary Returns set, on the staircase landing at the Wayne County Annex. John Schuerman dreamed this up, and I didn't know how good it would look until I saw the broadcast. Thanks to Karen Chasteen, Joe Kaiser, Phil Quinn, and Kelley Cruse, who anchored down almost three hours of live returns.

Tuesday, April 08, 2008

20th Anniversary

As promised, another 20th Anniversary cake.

20th Anniversary #2

The assembled membership looks over the minutes of last year's Annual Meeting.

20th Anniversary #3

Board President Mark Linderman and I preside over the festivities.

20th Anniversary Awards and Recognitions

Thanks to all who attended last night’s 20th Anniversary Celebration. We recognized more than 50 volunteers as well as current and previous staff and board members.

I wanted to share with you some of our 2007 program recognitions.

Channel 11 Producer of the Year: Sharon Palmer for “City Connections.”

Channel 20 Producer of the Year: Wes Miller for Earlham College programs.

Channel 21 Producer of the Year: Keith Van Tilburg and Al Johnson for “Rightly Dividing.”

2007 Volunteers of the Year: A.J. Alexander and Caleb Walters.

The 2007 Program of the Year selection was again open for public voting. This year’s winners were Ray and Bonnie Slick for “Proclaim Liberty.”

As part of a brief business meeting, new board members were added and several terms renewed.

Renewing terms were Eric Marsh, Barb Orbik, Jeff Plasterer, and Stephanie Strait.

New board members are Waketha Downs, Robin Henry, Valerie Shaffer, and Rob Zinkan.

They will join Daryl Greene, Ed Hoffman, Mark Linderman, Sharon Palmer, Billy Porch, Larry Price, and Phil Quinn on WCTV’s 2008-2009 Board of Directors.

Monday, April 07, 2008

2007 Annual Meeting Minutes

Call to Order:
President Kim Poinsett called the Annual Meeting of the membership of WCTV to order at 4:05 p.m.
Poinsett introduced the current Board Members and acknowledged Kenneth Paust, who left the board.
Poinsett also introduced the WCTV staff, recognized part-time and interim staff, and interns.
Fifteen Production Partners were recognized and twenty-six Business Partners were acknowledged and thanked.

Present:
The list of those in attendance is attached. (Attachment A)

Approval of Minutes:
Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting were distributed. Ed Hoffman moved to accept the minutes with Dave Burns giving the second. The minutes were unanimously approved.

Financial Report:
Treasurer Jeff Plasterer presented the financial report ending December 31, 2006. The income was $238,463.42, operating expenses were $216,923.85, with a total net income of $21,539.57. Plasterer reported that WCTV ended the year in better shape financially than the previous year.
Jeff Plasterer moved to accept the report with Sharon Palmer giving the second. The financial report was unanimously approved

Director’s Report:
Station Director John Dalton shared WCTV statistics, including an average of more than 75 programs a week adding up to more than 16 hours a day across the three channels; and airing more than 100 original series from more than 45 local producers in 2006.
Dalton also shared updates on the board, personal, and community mandates given to him upon his arrival a year ago.
Dalton spoke about this year’s plans, including exploring more technology trends and outcomes, and pursuing corporate work to grow additional revenue streams. But Dalton stated that following state and federal franchising legislation, and working with our current and any potential future cable companies, would be paramount.

When Dalton asked for questions from the floor, Ralph Wynn stated that he hoped WCTV would look at the personnel requirements for hiring. Wynn urged all to remember what public access means, especially to under-represented populations.
Jerome Mahaffey and James Patterson also spoke from the audience to ask WCTV to look at personnel requirements.

Old Business:
Nominees for new Board Members were introduced by Mark Linderman. Nominees are:
Daryl Greene (renewal), 3 year term
Eric Marsh (renewal), 1 year term
Jeff Plasterer (renewal), 1 year term
Stephanie Strait (renewal), 1 year term

James Patterson moved to accept the slate of nominees, with Ed Hoffman giving the second. The nominees were unanimously approved.

New Business:
Annual Awards:
John Dalton presented certificates to 45 volunteers. He recognized former award winners in the audience before announcing the following awards:

Channel 11 Producer of the Year – Stephanie Hays-Mussoni (accepted by Harry Phillips), for “Environmentally Speaking”

Channel 20 Producer of the Year – Tim Scales, for “In Your Business”

Channel 21 Producer of the Year – Jim and Cathy Hill, for “Midwest Jamboree”

2006 Volunteer of the Year – Jonathan Crawford and Christina Vaughn

2006 Program of the Year – WHON Kicks 96 News

Meeting Adjourned at 5:00 p.m.

Refreshments Provided.

(Attachment A)

Whitewater Community Television
2006 Annual Meeting
Tuesday, March 27, 2007

MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE NON-MEMBER ATTENDANCE

Willard Brown Dara Chamberlain
Dave Burns Kate Eliason
Patricia DeSonie Annalisa Gross
Waketha Downs Johnny Hou
Chris Hardie Harry Phillips
Cathy Hill Megan Scales
Carolyn Hoffman Shirley Turley
Ed Hoffman Cynthia Vaughn
Mark Linderman Caleb Walters
Jerome Mahaffey
Barb Mayberry
Sharon Palmer
Jeff Plasterer
Kim Poinsett
Tim Scales
Bonnie Slick
Ray Slick
Stephanie Strait
Ralph Wynn

STAFF IN ATTENDANCE

John Dalton
John Schuerman
Nick Poling
Diane Lucas

Friday, April 04, 2008

Upcoming WCTV Events

Just a reminder that WCTV’s 20th Anniversary celebration will be held Monday at 5:30 p.m. at the WCTV studio in Hayes Hall on the IU East campus. We will have a brief business meeting, then share recognitions and awards before offering a facilities tour. Refreshments will be served.

Also, on Sunday April 6 Channel 20 will be offering a slate of special programming to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Richmond explosion. Please check the local listings, or the WCTV website (www.wctv.info), for the full schedule.

Friday, March 28, 2008

WCTV Program of the Year Reminder!

Just a reminder that we are still accepting votes for WCTV Program of the Year for 2007, to be announced at our 20th Anniversary Celebration on Monday, April 7 at 5:30 p.m. in the WCTV studio.

Past winners from the last few years have included Glory Bound, Iceman on the Move, and Kicks 96/WHON News.

Submissions can be emailed to wctv@indiana.edu.

Friday, March 21, 2008

20th Anniversary Celebration!

Whitewater Community Television was incorporated on April 7, 1988, with the sweep of a pen by then-Indiana Secretary of State Evan Bayh.

Monday, April 7, 2008 marks the twentieth anniversary of Whitewater Community Television serving Richmond and Wayne County. It has been an amazing journey from borrowed equipment in the basement of Richmond High School to the full broadcasting facility with editing suites and fully-equipped studio that we enjoy today. We have grown from one part-time person to a full compliment of professional staff.

We invite you to join us at our 20th Anniversary Celebration, April 7 at 5:30 p.m. in the WCTV studio. We will conduct a brief business meeting, then share recognitions and awards before offering a facilities tour. Refreshments will be served.

Whether we see you on April 7th or not, let me take this opportunity to thank you for your past support of, and interest in, Whitewater Community Television.

Monday, March 17, 2008

WCTV Bootcamp!

I am happy to announce that we have once again partnered with the Indiana University East Office of Continuing Education to offer training and coursework in various aspects of video production. Below is some information on upcoming classes:

Scriptwriting
This course will be covering all aspects of scriptwriting from the ground up, including writing corporate and instructional videos all the way to developing feature films. You do not have to complete this course to be certified to use the WCTV facilities.
Fee: $40
Richmond: 2 Wednesdays, March 26 & April 2 from 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Registration deadline: March 19

Videography Techniques
This course begins with fundamentals of videography, and builds on knowledge to include basic studio camera as well as more advanced ideas of field videography, with lighting and audio schemes presented.
Fee: $40
Richmond: 2 Wednesdays, April 9 & 16 from 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Registration deadline: April 2

Editing with iMovie
Even if you don't use iMovie, this course will introduce you to the basic ideas of nonlinear editing on computer platforms. Students can use camera tape shot during the Videography Techniques course; otherwise stock footage will be provided for practice by WCTV.
Fee: $90
Richmond: 3 Mondays, April 21-May 5 from 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Registration deadline: April 14

Finalizing Projects with Final Cut
Computure editing training on Final Cut suite will be offered to those who complete Editing with iMovie as a prerequisite. Students in this class will be working toward completing content to be used on WCTV, including PDAs, station IDs, and other production elements.
Fee: $90
Richmond: 3 Mondays, May 12-26 from 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Registration deadline: May 5

Enroll in the series for only $220. Participants who successfully complete all four classes will receive a one year membership to WCTV and be certified to use the WCTV facility.

For more information, contact Amanda Vance at 973-8203, or see more online at http://www.iue.edu/academic/continuing/index.shtml.

Monday, February 25, 2008

Our 20th Anniversary Membership Drive

2008 marks the twentieth anniversary of Whitewater Community Television serving Richmond and Wayne County. It has been a tremendous journey, starting with just a couple of VHS decks and some borrowed cameras, growing to the full broadcasting facility with editing suites and a three-camera studio that we enjoy today.

From just a few programs on one channel, we have grown to more than sixteen hours a day of original, first-run programming across three channels, airing more than 75 programs a week and supporting more than 40 local producers. Richmond currently enjoys the third largest public access television operation in the state of Indiana.

Along the way we became a critical source for local information in Wayne County, offering gavel-to-gavel coverage of city and county government meetings, educational programs and sporting events from area high schools and colleges, election results and weather alerts and more, as well as acted as an outlet for local producers to provide their own original content to the public.

This past year was a great time of growth, with many firsts (including our first live IU East basketball game and our first live phone-in show with Santa); but 2007 also saw many challenges for public access and community television at local, state, and federal levels. We hope that you will take the opportunity to consider what public access television has meant to Wayne County over the last two decades, and we invite you to assist us in our ongoing efforts by becoming a member of, or renewing your membership to, Whitewater Community Television

I would like to invite you to visit our facilities, located in the lower level of Hayes Hall on the IU East campus, to see some of the new things happening at WCTV.

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

February Board Meeting

Today's board meeting was canceled due to inclement weather, and lack of quorum. Approved minutes will be posted next month.

Monday, February 11, 2008

20 Sweet Years

The first of what will hopefully be many 20th Anniversary cakes.

WCTV Channel 21 Lottery

What is a WCTV event without me lurking around the cake?

Post-Lottery Refreshments

I think the extreme cold weather kept a lot of our usual crowd away from the Lottery this time, so we had cake and coffee and cola a-plenty. The smiling guy in this picture is from Minnesota, naturally.

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Hoops Action

John Schuerman surveys the shootaround from our broadcast perch before the IU East Homecoming game, broadcast live on WCTV Saturday.

Hoops Action #2

Rebeckah Snoddy squares up a shot at the opening of the live IUE Homecoming basketball game.

Hoops Action #3

Our broadcasting team of Caleb Walters and A.J. Alexander return for our first live basketball game, and did a great job in the booth.

Hoops Action #4

Nick Poling manned a floor cam throughout.

Hoops Action #5

We had some camera people go down sick at the last minute and Nick's friend Ty jumped in and helped. Another trusty KISS-TV grad from Union City High School.

Hoops Action #6

IU East Sports Information Director Nathan Marley gives updates to our on-air talent, Caleb Walters and A.J. Alexander.

Hoops Action #7

John Schuerman snuck away from running audio for a moment to snap this shot of our perch above the Tiernan Center floor.

Hoops Action #8

IU East Chancellor Nasser Paydar stopped in to talk to us at halftime.

Friday, January 25, 2008

IU East Homecoming Game Live!

We are kicking off the celebration of WCTV’s 20th Anniversary with two firsts; the first live basketball game aired on WCTV, as well as IU East’s first basketball game to be broadcast.

IU East with take on Ohio Christian live at the Tiernan Center at 3:30 p.m. tomorrow on Channel 20. Our special pregame show with Coach Mark Hester begins at 3 p.m.

This is IU East’s first season in the Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (KIAC), a part of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). You can follow their progress at http://www.iue.edu/athletics/.

Friday, January 18, 2008

Channel 21 Program Lottery

Here are the materials pertaining to the next lottery drawing for programming on WCTV Channel 21. This lottery will take place February 11 at noon in the studio of WCTV.

This last round we had only one thirty-minute slot remaining in Tier One, so please make sure to return your materials to ensure a spot.

Feel free to join us afterwards for refreshments.

The new schedule will begin the week of March 2, 2008.

Once again, thank you for your continued interest and support of WCTV.

Tier One Program Drawing

Reserved only for local producers whose programs take place physically, and are recorded within, Wayne County, Indiana.

Maximum program length is one hour. One program maximum per week in this tier.

Programming days include Saturday through Thursday.

Producer may supply one new program per week, and shall supply at least one fresh program at least every two weeks, to maintain tier one status. Producer shall deliver program to WCTV studios at least one business day before program plays on Channel 21. Sunday and Monday programs need to be in on Friday.

Tier One programs will be placed first. Tier One may be expanded at the expense of Tier Two as new local producers qualify for Tier One. Tier One programs always take precedent. As of this drawing, as we maintain one hour maximum per program, there are sufficient hours available to handle historic numbers of programs. However, Tier Two programs are subject to be moved or discontinued if demand for Tier One programming expands to the point that the only way to accommodate Tier One programmers is to shrink Tier Two time, accordingly. Any cancellation may be based on last in, first out. Cancelled programs may be entered in the next lottery.

All assigned hours in Tier One are subject to the luck of the draw. Since programs are either ½ hour or one hour in length, the presiding WCTV lottery official may assign the drawn program to the next practical and available time slot, later or earlier, as applicable.

This drawing will be effective starting March 2, 2008, and programs in Tier One will normally be scheduled for a total of three run times per week, as practical. Original cablecast and repeats are typically at eight-hour intervals.

Any program qualifying for Tier One which becomes a part of WCTV programming after the lottery may be placed in any time available until the next lottery drawing.

Tier One programmers -- please check the appropriate box on the return form if you would prefer that your program appears regularly on Sunday. The first random drawing will be for Sunday-preferred time slots in the eight hours between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m. until all preferred Sunday hours availabilities are filled. Any remaining Sunday-preferred programs will be assigned randomly to Saturday. Then, Monday through Thursday time slots will be randomly drawn and placed in late afternoon and evening hours, as available. In the event that any Sunday hours remained after the Sunday-preferred drawing, they will be drawn for last of all, if it is necessary to accommodate any remaining producers.

Tier Two Program Drawing

Reserved only for programs that take place physically, and are recorded, outside Wayne County, Indiana.

Maximum program length is one hour. Two programs maximum per week, as time may be available. Must have a different local sponsor for each program.

Programming days may include Saturday through Thursday.

All times, repeats, and placements in Tier Two are at the discretion of the Program Director. Original program cablecast and repeats typically are at eight hour intervals for a total of two to three run times per week, as practical.

Producer may supply one new program per week, per time slot, and shall supply at least one fresh program per time slot at least every two weeks to maintain Tier Two status.

Producer shall deliver program to WCTV studios at least one business day before program plays on Channel 21. Sunday and Monday programs need to be in on Friday.

Other Information

An Individual Program is defined as “A program submitted for one run which is not part of a series and does not contain series content.”

Only series programming that has been through the lottery process and not selected for a regular series timeslot will be accepted for weekly play during individual program timeslots. Series programming, or programming with similar content, that was not part of the lottery process can be submitted no more than twice a month.

WCTV allows two types of programming: series and non-series (individual). Series means all programs have the same title and similar content. An individual program is one which has an individual title and the content is not the same as another program.

Individual programs can be submitted for playback once and must be accompanied by an application form. A series submitted for play during Individual program time slots must be separate and distinct from other series programming by the same producer. Any producer wishing to submit a series program, without participating in the series lottery, will be able to air two programs per month.

After its cablecast, any program that is judged to have technical problems may be pulled from programming rotation. Possible problems include very low or no audio levels, video images which have tracking problems or static, video images that are too dark or out of focus, and/or other technical problems. The Program Director may suspend the program and future episodes of the program from further cable casting until technical problems are resolved. Please spot check your program before you bring it in to avoid any problems, especially with the authoring of DVDs.

WCTV accepts VHS, S-VHS, DVD, and MiniDV.

Wednesday, January 09, 2008

December 2007 Board Minutes

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by Vice President Willard Brown.

Present: Willard Brown, Daryl Greene, Ed Hoffman, Jerome Mahaffey, Eric Marsh, Kim Poinsett, Larry Price, Barb Orbik, Phil Quinn and Stephanie Strait.
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, and Diane Lucas.

Approval of Minutes
Ed Hoffman moved, with Kim Poinsett giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of November 13, 2007. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Orbik presented the Treasurer’s Report. The report reflects $14,801 from Insight for capital equipment. Ed Hoffman moved, with Phil Quinn giving the second, and the Treasurer’s Report was approved.
The 2008 budget was presented. Barb noted that the staff believed they could create addition income in the duplication, grants, and fundraising areas; and in expenses, Barb noted increases in salaries and benefits and the audit, which could increase as much as 30% because of changes in the state’s auditing procedures. Gilliam and Zetzl will continue to do the accounting, but will not be doing any audits in the future. An RFP for a new auditor will go out the first of the year.
John Dalton said that he feels that Insight set a precedent for future payments of capital equipment money by paying this year, the first under the new state Telecom law. He stated that he expects that the City of Richmond money will continue for the future. John is hoping to talk to the City about negotiations beyond 2008 at the Telecommunications Council meeting on January 17.
Ed Hoffman moved, with Kim Poinsett giving the second, and the 2008 Budget was approved.

Director’s Report
John Dalton asked board members for suggestions for the open board position.
John stated that we have collection approximately $2600 of Auction money to date.
John reported that the Salvation Army show was successful, thanks to the use of a pair of microwave dishes loaned by WIPB-TV.
John is hoping to air the IU East Homecoming live from the Tiernan Center in January in a project with IUE.
The live call-in Santa show for children is coming up next Tuesday, December 18th.
John plans to highlight WCTV’s 20th year in a number of ways, including the return of “Viewfinder” as a thirty-minute monthly program.

Good of the Order
Stephaine Stait asked WCTV board members to remember WCTV in their holiday giving. Willard thanked John, the staff and the board for all of their hard work this past year.

Adjournment - 12:10 p.m.

Friday, December 28, 2007

Santa Claus on WCTV!

A screen capture of Santa and I taking live calls from more than 45 Wayne County children on December 18th. It was a fun night, and thanks to everyone who phoned in.

Checking It Twice

A lucky Wayne County girl gets to talk to Santa live on WCTV Tuesday December 18th. With the kids in the studio and those on the phone, we got more than 50 wish lists from local kids.

Friday, December 21, 2007

Holiday Programming on Channel 21

From now through January 1, enjoy more than 25 hours of local holiday programming provided by area churches, schools, and our Channel 21 producers. This year we have expanded our selection more than ever before, with holiday programs from our archives and replays of our recent Salvation Army Christmas Party broadcast and our Santa phone-in program. We hope your family enjoys the selection as much as our WCTV family did producing these special programs.

We return to regular programming on January 2, and hope you will join us for all that’s to come in 2008.

Happy Holidays!

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Deck the Control Room

Volunteer Barry Barker snapped a few shots at the Salvation Army Christmas Party, simulcast on WKBV and WCTV for the second great year. The Salvation Army put us in a little room that had a window out into the main area just like a real TV control room.

Pressed to the Window

A better look at the festivities from my lonely perch in the control room.

Christmas Camera Op

Operations Director John Schuerman wanted a high-angle camera shot, then found he was the only guy tall enough to reach the controls.

A Country Christmas

Charlie Estes and Friends playing during the show, simulcast on both WKBV radio and WCTV this year. We always get a lot of positive calls when Charlie's group comes on the air. Look for replays of this Christmas Party all during Christmas.

Friday, December 14, 2007

Santa Claus is Coming to WCTV!

WCTV is starting a new holiday program this year. We will be hosting a live Santa phone-in show on Channel 21 from 7-8 p.m. on Tuesday, December 18. Kids can call 973-8587 to talk to Santa live on the air that night.

We are still looking for a few children to come to the studio on Tuesday to talk to Santa on television, and we would like to extend the invitation to families of WCTV friends and supporters. Please contact me at 973-8488, or via email, if you know a child who would be interested.

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

November 2007 Board Minutes

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by President Mark Linderman.

Present: Willard Brown, Daryl Greene, Ed Hoffman, Mark Linderman, Jerome Mahaffey, Eric Marsh, Sharon Palmer, Jeff Plasterer, Kim Poinsett, Larry Price,
Phil Quinn and Stephanie Strait.
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, Nick Poling, and Diane Lucas.

Approval of Minutes
Jeff Plasterer moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of October 9, 2007. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
In the absence of Barb Orbik, John Dalton presented the Treasurer’s Report. John reported that the budget is in line with 75% of the year completed. John noted that the capital equipment money was paid to us in October and would be reflected in the next statement. Ed Hoffman moved, with Larry Price giving the second, and the Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Director’s Report
John Dalton reported that our recent Auction raised approximately $3,000.00, about double the amount from last year. There were two underwriting packages sold this year. John anticipates that the Auction could grow in future years. We had close to 40 volunteers, over 75 bidders, nearly 50 donors and sponsors, and more than 80 items. Stephanie Strait thanked the staff for their hard work on the Auction. Mark Linderman recognized Nick Poling’s good work in directing.
The election returns program went well. This year’s show featured more of a roundtable discussion because of the change in return reporting.
John is asking for recommendations to fill the open board position vacated by Dave Burns. John hopes to be able to present a candidate at the December board meeting. We will have eight board members with terms expiring in April 2008.
John attended the Alliance for Community Media-Central States Region Fall Conference and Trade Show in Fort Wayne, Indiana. John learned our problems with Insight and the live feeds were being discussed at the state and regional level at the conference. Several critical issues in the state law were discussed. John would like to position WCTV to be a part of the ongoing discussion, especially in terms of the IURC and the legislature going forward in 2008.
We are working on ways to air the Salvation Army Show live at their location. Several possible solutions are under consideration.

New Business
Phil Quinn led a discussion about concerns over a recent event taped and submitted by a producer to be aired at a later date on WCTV. It was determined that this program would be aired like any other submitted program.

Good of the Order
John Dalton thanked everyone who helped with the recent WCTV Auction.

Adjournment - 12:05 p.m.

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

WCTV Updates

It is a busy time at WCTV. We just completed another successful television Auction and turned around a few days later to broadcast live election returns. On Thursday night at 7 p.m. on Channel 20 we will be broadcasting the Salvation Army Christmas program for the second year, a longtime traditional favorite on radio and hopefully a tradition we are building on television. And on Tuesday December 18th at 7 p.m. on Channel 21 we will be starting a new tradition by hosting Santa in a live phone-in show for kids in the Whitewater Valley to get their wish lists heard by the man in charge.

And in the midst of all of this it struck me that on December 1st I passed my second anniversary here at WCTV.

About this time last year I also stopped to reflect in an email to our mailing list. Then I was in Indianapolis, with a few other access center leaders, meeting with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to discuss the new Telecom Bill impacting local franchises, including ours. And I was teaching kids at Wernle about videography, and working with them to produce their own DVD. Thinking back, those two events, different in size and scope, reinforce in my mind my belief in the importance of grassroots and independent media in a community; things I have always believed in personally and am finally pursuing professionally. I hope our viewers and supporters can see, on the air, our staff’s commitment to these beliefs, and to the direction we have headed these last two years.

We are currently programming more than 16 hours a day across three channels, averaging between 75-85 programs a week, locally produced or of local interest. We have close to fifty local producers generating content for Channel 21. We expanded from six to seven nights of programming, offering a Friday night Reading Service for the elderly and the visually impaired as well as a “By Request” time slot where viewers can ask to see their favorite WCTV programs. We have expanded our election coverage and broadcast our first live parade. We partnered with Kicks-96/WHON to bring you a nightly newscast, and provided our own professionally-produced high school sports broadcasts, teaming up with high school A/V classes to provide students learning experiences alongside WCTV staff.

Our local producers have access to more equipment than before, with new cameras and new edit bays. We have offered free workshops as well as noncredit training classes through IU East, and hope to repeat those courses again soon. For producers who need help with their programs, we offer “House Calls,” where trained volunteers and professional staff come to your location and give advice on how to produce the best program for your viewers.

Equipment upgrades in our head end have improved our signal quality, and we have institutionalized procedures for troubleshooting problems with playback of our programming.

Our Board of Directors is filled out to fifteen members, and worked on developing a new Channel 21 Lottery system that is fair to everyone, as well as looking at other ongoing policies and procedures.

For those who asked for more information on what’s going on at WCTV, we updated the website, added a blog, and developed comprehensive email and traditional mail mailing lists. You can see what’s new at WCTV by going to www.wctv.info or www.wctvjournal.blogspot.com.

2008 is an important year for us. It will be our twentieth year of service to the people of Wayne County. WCTV’s first two employees are still on the payroll today, a testament to the important work we feel, as a staff, we are doing. Personally, 2008 will also be my twentieth year of working professionally in the field, and I am as excited today as I was when I left the ivied halls of college two decades ago.

2008 is also important as we see changes, and potential challenges, in the cable access landscape locally, statewide, and at the federal level. As we celebrate this milestone, we hope our friends and supporters will join us as we move forward towards whatever is coming next.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

More Happy Returns

Stalwart volunteer Barry Barker sent me some photos he took at the election night broadcast November 6, so I thought I would post a few here. Here we are behind the scenes, from left to right: John Schuerman, me, our trusty Earlhamites Will and Evan, and Nick Poling.

The (Political) View

Phil Quinn chats with our hosts, Paul and Joe. Phil won a seat on Council and also sits on our Board of Directors.

Stand By

Former BSU intern Dara Chamberlain floor directs while cameraman Michael looks on, and Sheriff Matt Strittmater waits for his turn in the interview chair.

Live Levity

I'm not exactly sure what John Schuerman and I were laughing about. We were getting tired.

Mission Control

Evan Burks and Will Myers from Earlham help staff member Nick Poling at the helm. I posted this picture so the folks in the Bonner Scholars program at Earlham will know that we keep these guys busy.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

October 2007 Board of Directors Minutes

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by President Mark Linderman.

Present: Dave Burns, Daryl Greene, Ed Hoffman, Mark Linderman, Jerome Mahaffey, Barb Orbik, Sharon Palmer, Jeff Plasterer, Kim Poinsett and Billy Porch.
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, Nick Poling, and Diane Lucas.

Approval of Minutes
Dave Burns moved, with Billy Porch giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of September 11, 2007. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Orbik presented the Treasurer’s Report. Barb noted that the report shows, with two-thirds of the year completed, ahead in the income column, with spending being under in the expenses column. Jeff Plasterer moved, with Kim Poinsett giving the second, and the Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Director’s Report
John Dalton relayed that our insurance company paid for the two damaged modulators. The two new modulators have been installed.
John reported the current status with Insight. RHS is up and running, and Ivy Tech should be up and running by the end of October. Insight cut over some cable at the I-70 interchange build and dramatically improved our forward signal. John is continuing to keep track of the Insight situation.
Plans for the Auction continue to progress. Warm Glow Candles and G101.3/WKBV have signed up to be one-hour sponsors. John passed out the current spreadsheet showing donated Auction items. He asked the board members to call any acquaintances who are not on the list to see if they might submit items for bid. John also asked for volunteers to help the night of the Auction.
John updated the board on current and potential production projects.

Old Business
Dave Burns indicated that this is his last board meeting. Although he will no longer be a Board member, he hopes to volunteer in the future. Dave feels that the picture quality has improved and he encouraged everyone to report any problems so they can be solved quickly. Staff and board members expressed thanks to Dave.

Adjournment - 11:45 a.m.

Thursday, November 08, 2007

Live from the City Building

Nick Poling directs live election returns from the Richmond City Building.

Remote Studio

Cameraman Thomas from Richmond High School looks on as our stalwart political commentators Paul Kriese and Joe Keyser interview representative Phil Pflum.

The Paul and Joe Show

Our steady hosts interviewed politicians and candidates for more than two hours on live television and did a great job, as always.

Behind the Scenes

Former Volunteer of the Year Barry Barker showing his skills on the GL-2. He was also handy with a little floor producing.

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

WCTV Thanks!

All,

Thanks for your help in making Friday’s Community Benefits Live Television Auction a success. We had close to 40 volunteers, over 75 bidders, nearly 50 donors and sponsors, and uncounted viewers and supporters who all contributed to making the evening a great one for WCTV.

2008 is our 20th Anniversary of serving the Whitewater Valley, so we are hoping to make next year’s Auction an especially memorable one. I hope you will join us again next year.

But there is plenty on the plate before then, including live election results tonight, beginning at 7 p.m. We hope you tune in.

Monday, November 05, 2007

WCTV Auction!

David Karasick, Nick Poling, and Mark Linderman--the control room A-Team--produce the show behind the scenes.

From the Control Room

Director's-Eye View of the Live TV Auction Friday night.

On the Set

Larry Price from Reid Hospital is interviewed by host Dave Snow while floor director Dara Chamberlain looks on.

The G Crew

Mandi Michaels and Dave Snow from G101.3 anchored down our 7 p.m. hour.

High Bidder

IUE student Amber Lehman talks to a bidder on the phone bank.

At the Keyboard

John Schuerman entered bids for four straight hours (plus) with a little encouragement from his wife Wendy.

Taking Requests

G101.3's Mandi Michaels talks to a fan on the phone bank.

On Headset

Richmond High School student Michael enjoyed running camera--and the free pizza from Joe's Pizza even more.

In the Wings

Longtime WCTV host Norma Schroeder waits for her turn in the spotlight.

Green Room

On-air host Carly St. Myers and WCTV's Diane Lucas enjoy pizza and snacks in the green room.

Monday, October 29, 2007

Friday Night is the Night!

Just another reminder to all of WCTV’s third annual “Community Benefits” live television auction this Friday, November 2nd beginning at 6 p.m. on WCTV.

Again we are partnering with the IU East SIFE group (Students in Free Enterprise), and would also like to thank Warm Glow Candle Outlet of Centerville and G101.3/WKBV, who have joined us as hourly sponsors, as well as Joe’s Pizza, which will be providing food that evening.

We have a wide variety of items to auction, including sports tickets and memorabilia, autographed books, restaurant certificates, gift baskets, and more.

We are still accepting auction items until Wednesday for this exciting event, but I would like to thank those fine local and regional entities who have already donated:

Bumblebee Printing

Abbott’s Candy and Gifts

Academy of Massage Therapy

Charlie’s Coffee Bar

Chase Bank

Chili’s Restaurant

Civic Hall Performing Arts Center

Curves

DDIC

First Bank Richmond

HELP the Animals

Indianapolis Colts

Indianapolis Indians

Maria Mitrione’s Italian Market

Meijer

G101.3/WKBV.

O’Charley’s

Olde Richmond Inn

Olympian Candies

Palais Royale

Patio at the Country Rib Eye

Reid Hospital

Richmond Art Museum

Richmond Gymnastics

Richmond Hardware

Richmond Health Connection

Star-Gennett Foundation

Summersault

Warm Glow Candle Outlet

Wayne Bank

Wayne County Vision

West End Bank

WUR Solid Waste Management District of Wayne and Union Counties

Watch the Channel 21 message boards between now and Friday to see more information on these and other items; and I hope you all watch and bid.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

September 2007 Board Minutes

Call to Order - 11:05 a.m. by President Mark Linderman.

Present: Dave Burns, Willard Brown, Daryl Greene, Ed Hoffman, Mark Linderman, Jerome Mahaffey, Eric Marsh, Barb Mayberry, Sharon Palmer, Jeff Plasterer, Kim Poinsett, Larry Price, Phil Quinn and Stephanie Strait.
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, Nick Poling, and Diane Lucas.

Approval of Minutes
Phil Quinn moved, with Dave Burns giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of August 14, 2007. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Mayberry presented the Treasurer’s Report. Barb noted that the report reflects income from various clients. Willard Brown moved, with Ed Hoffman giving the second, and the Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Director’s Report
John Dalton informed the Board about a recent insurance claim with RMD Patti. A lightning strike destroyed two modulators valued at approximately $2,000. WCTV was off the air for about six hours. There are plans to guard against this unusual occurrence in the future.
John met with IUE Interim Chancellor Paydar about organizational restructuring at IUE and where WCTV would be on the flow chart. WCTV will now fall under the office of External Affairs and Marketing.
The Auction letters went out on August 31, and we are already getting a very good response. Several nice items have come in. Warm Glow Candles is donating a $200 basket and also sponsoring an hour of the Auction. The Auction will be held on November 2, 2007.
We are still waiting to see the technical plan for our live feeds from Insight Cable. It appears that the School Board meetings will be live soon.
In programming, it is likely that we will tape the RHS Homecoming game next Friday. We will be part of the Hometown Sports Network, airing regional college games from schools like Butler, Wabash, and the University of Indianapolis. CEC Clubhouse, a literacy program from Connersville, is a new show for WCTV.
The SOS show with Charlie Estes was very successful. An anonymous person sponsored that event.
WCTV has four interns this semester, three from Earlham (including two Bonner Scholars) and one from IUE.
This past Saturday, we taped the Gennett Foundation event in the Gorge. This event provided us with 8-9 hours of footage and will probably be edited into a half-dozen shows for air and for sale through the Gennett store.

Old Business
John Dalton provided information about the University Channel. WCTV airs about 1-4 shows per week. A list of recent shows was presented to the Board.
There was a discussion of the ongoing issues with Insight and the live feeds being down in parts of the City and County.
Dave Burns mentioned that as a citizen he sent a letter to Mike Pence, and met personally with him, to talk about local control of video franchising.

Good of the Order
Acknowledgement was given to the staff and volunteers who taped the Gennett Foundation event in the gorge.

Adjournment - 11:55 a.m.

Monday, October 08, 2007

Auction Reminder!

Just a reminder to all of WCTV’s third annual “Community Benefits” live television auction on Friday, November 2nd beginning at 6 p.m. on WCTV.

Again we are partnering with the IU East SIFE group (Students in Free Enterprise), and would also like to thank Warm Glow Candle Outlet of Centerville and G101.3/WKBV, who have joined us as hourly sponsors.

We are still accepting auction items for this exciting event, but I would like to thank those fine area merchants who have already donated:

Abbott’s Candy and Gifts

Academy of Massage Therapy

Bumblebee Printing

Chase Bank

Civic Hall Performing Arts Center

DDIC

Maria Mitrione’s Italian Market

O’Charley’s

Olde Richmond Inn

Patio at the Country Rib Eye

Richmond Art Museum

Richmond Gymnastics Training Center

Richmond Hardware

Richmond Health Connection

Wayne County Vision and Young Adult Professionals (YAP)

West End Bank

WUR Solid Waste Management District of Wayne and Union Counties

Watch the Channel 21 message boards between now and November 2 to see more information on these and more items. And I hope you all watch and bid on November 2.

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

August 2007 Board of Directors Minutes

Call to Order – 11:01 a.m. by President Mark Linderman.

Present: Willard Brown, Dave Burns, Daryl Greene, Ed Hoffman, Mark Linderman, Barb Mayberry, Sharon Palmer, Larry Price, Stephanie Strait
Staff: John Dalton, John Schuerman, Nick Poling

Approval of Minutes
Dave Burns moved, with Willard Brown giving the second, that the Board unanimously accepts the minutes of July 2007. Minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Barb Mayberry presented the financial report. She noted that we are on target for this point in the fiscal year, having spent roughly one-half of our budget and received roughly one-half of our income. Dave Burns moved, with Daryl Greene giving the second, and the Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Director’s Report
The Channel 21 Program Lottery and Annual Picnic were held Friday, August 3, with about 30 people in attendance. Tier One is almost full; there is still some space in Tier Two.
The following day (Saturday) WCTV offered production workshops free of charge. Six people took the class.
John, Mark Linderman, and City Clerk Karen Chasteen spoke to the Wayne County Commissioners regarding the live feed situation. John will continue to work with them to help them get more satisfactory results.
WCTV was contacted by the Hometown Sport Network, which is looking for affiliates to broadcast regional college sports. He will report back at the next meeting.
New intern Michael Gibbs from I.U. East will start next week.
John met with representatives from SIFE to discuss the auction. SIFE would like to partner with us more fully than last year. After discussion with the Executive Committee, it was decided that WCTV is interested in that arrangement if we can spell out what SIFE will be responsible for, and if they will step up and take on more specific tasks this year.
John noted the death of Mel Martin, producer of Glory Bound. WCTV has sent condolences.

Old Business
There was no old business brought to the table.

New Business
Dave Burns discussed issues with the TBCs in the headend. John reported that they are not currently being used and a suitable replacement was being sought.

Dave also urged citizen action to protect PEG access during the upcoming national franchise agreement discussions.

Dave brought up the University Channel, and voiced concerns about programming that is available through it. John said that WCTV is under no obligation to broadcast programs from UC, and that he picks programs for WCTV that he feels are of value to the community and reflect community standards. John will prepare a list of programs from UC that WCTV has broadcast, and the Board will discuss at a future meeting.

Good of the Order
John Dalton recognized and thanked those who had put in extra help during a busy few weeks at WCTV, including Ed Hoffman and Nick Poling.

Adjournment
12:10 p.m.

Tuesday, September 04, 2007

Community Benefits Live Television Auction!

WCTV is once again partnering with Indiana University East SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) to sponsor the Community Benefits Live Television Auction.

The event will be held Friday, November 2nd, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on WCTV Channel 21.

WCTV is a not-for profit organization, dedicated to providing technology training and channel access for programs produced by, or of interest to, residents of Wayne County.
SIFE develops community outreach projects that focus on the topics of Market Economics, Entrepreneurship, Personal Financial Success Skills, and Business Ethics. Proceeds from the auction will support both sponsoring organizations.

The auction is a fun event that will provide great PR for those businesses who wish to donate items for the auction. Businesses and individuals who wish to donate items will receive on-air credit before and during the auction.

To learn more about what items might be donated, how to donate items, and when and where to deliver them or how to schedule a pick up, please contact WCTV at 765-973-8488.

WCTV is presently offering more than 16 hours of programming a day across three channels, averaging more than 75 programs a week, and has close to 45 Wayne County producers providing content. We are supplementing this content with diverse, important programming of interest to Wayne County residents. WCTV has been doing so for close to twenty years. We invite you to be a part of WCTV and this event.