by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
Update on the opposition to The American Broadband Deployment Act (H.R. 2289)
For many months, we have kept everyone informed about the American Broadband Deployment Act (H.R. 2289). If passed, this act would give telecommunication conglomerates de facto power over local zoning laws without providing public safety protections for construction of “deemed granted” facilities. Sites will be constructed without any further action by or notice to the local government.
From NATOA (The National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors):
At last month’s U.S. Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting, a resolution was adopted that urges Congress to reject the American Broadband Deployment Act by warning that the legislation would limit local oversight of broadband deployment and public rights-of-way.
They approved Resolution No. 39, expressing strong opposition to the American Broadband Deployment Act, H.R. 2289 and related Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposals that the conference says would preempt local authority over public rights-of-way, zoning, and telecommunications infrastructure.
This Annual Meeting is one of two major meetings of the United States Conference of Mayors each year. The primary purpose of this meeting is to adopt policy resolutions that guide the organization’s advocacy work.
2026 Resolutions of the USCM in the fields of Technology and Innovation include:
A Resolution Expressing Strong Opposition to Federal Preemption of Local Authority for the Benefit of the Telecommunications Industry, Resolution Number 39.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors strongly opposes H.R. 2289 and urges all members of the House of Representatives and the Senate to oppose the legislation or any similar preemption proposal as an unnecessary and unconstitutional taking of local property rights.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors thanks Representative Pallone for his leadership in support of local control and opposition to H.R. 2289 and all those members, Democrat and Republican, that stood with Mr. Pallone in protecting local governments’ police powers and property rights.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors reaffirms its opposition to the proposed actions in the FCC’s two broadband dockets, and calls on the Commissions to refrain from taking actions, the authority for which was not delegated by Congress to the Commissions, and even were the power delegated, the actions proposed by the Commissions would result in an unconditional taking of local governments’ rights.
Sponsored by: Brian Wahler (Piscataway, NJ); Angela Birney (Redmond, WA); Connie Boesen (Des Moines, IA); J. Christian Bollwage (Elizabeth, NJ); Leirion Gaylor Baird (Lincoln, NE); Anne Marie Graham-Hudak (Charter Township of Canton, MI); Christina Muryn (Findlay, OH); Michael Owens (Mableton, GA); Satya Rhodes-Conway (Madison, WI); Daniel Rickenmann (Columbia, SC); Jim Ross (Arlington, TX); Keith Wilson (Portland, OR) and Michelle Wu (Boston, MA)
Representative Thomas Kean Jr’s explanation for his lengthy absence.
For many months, constituents of New Jersey’s 7th District (as well as the entire state) wondered what had happened to Representative Tom Kean Jr. He was absent for countless votes with no explanation on his whereabouts. On July 1, we learned the reason behind his absence when Rep. Kean returned and addressed everyone on the House floor with the following speech:
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with deep gratitude for the patience, the kindness, the prayers, and the concern that have been shown to me and my family over the course of the last several months.
This is not an easy speech for me to give. I am a private person by nature, and I have spent most of my life talking about the people that I represent, the issues facing our communities, and the work that continues to be done. Talking about myself has never come naturally, but I believe that I owe an explanation to the people of New Jersey’s 7th District, to my colleagues in this chamber, and to the American people for my absence.
Several months ago, due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I did not believe that this would result in a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression.
Now, when people hear the word depression, many people think simply means feeling sad. But depression is so much more than that. It is physical. It is emotional. And until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be.
The doctors recommended that I remain in the hospital to address my illness. They explained to me that this would be the fastest way to recovery. And to be honest, I was hesitant. I didn’t think that I had time for it. I had responsibilities to my family. I had responsibilities to my constituents. I had responsibilities to this institution.
And like many people, I believed that I could simply push through. But I agreed to follow my doctor’s recommendations. Again, not believing that would result in a long-term stay. I began to understand not only my diagnosis, but how long depression had been affecting my life.
When I first informed the public that I was dealing with a medical issue, I was still trying to understand what was happening myself. When I said I hope to return in a matter of weeks, I believed it. Those were the best estimates that the doctors could provide.
But as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing. There is no timeline for recovery. Only the work of getting better one day at a time.
Today, I am grateful that I listened to my doctors. And I am grateful for the exceptional care that I have received from doctors, nurses, and support staff. I am grateful that I accepted help.
Because today I stand before you healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work that I love. I’ve always been a supporter of mental health care. During my time in the New Jersey legislature, I worked to advance mental health parity. I believed in the cause then, and I understand it in a far more personal way now.
This experience has given me a deeper appreciation for the millions of Americans who face these challenges each and every day. Many do so quietly. Many do so alone. Many do so while carrying burdens that the rest of us never see.
And to them, I would say, asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength. To my constituents, Thank you. Thank you for your patience. Thank you for your understanding. Thank you for your prayers. And thank you for allowing me the honor of serving you.
I also want to thank my staff, who worked tirelessly to ensure that our office continued serving constituents every day during my absence. And most importantly, I want to thank my family, whose love whose support and whose faith carried me through some very difficult days.
This is not a partisan issue. It touches every community, every family, and every corner of this country. If sharing my story encourages even one person to seek help, if it gives one family the courage to have a difficult conversation, or if it reminds one person that recovery is possible, then this moment will have been worthwhile.
I am grateful to be back with the full support of my doctors. I’m grateful to be healthy. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the people of New Jersey’s 7th congressional district. Thank you. May God bless the people of New Jersey and may God bless the United States of America.”
Depression affects a person’s whole body and mind. It can drain your energy and make daily tasks difficult. Sleep and eating habits can change and it can cause real physical aches. We at JAG welcome Rep. Kean back to Congress and extend our wishes and support for his recovery.
News & Events
Posted: August 20, 2026 by Rich Desimone
Who Has the Password?
by John C. Morley, Video Producer and Engineer
Years ago, protecting a television station meant locking the doors, securing the equipment, and ensuring only authorized personnel had access to the control room. Today, another part of the station needs just as much protection: its digital assets.
Community television stations may have more online accounts than people realize. YouTube channels, social media accounts, websites, streaming platforms, cloud storage, email accounts, scheduling systems, remote access tools, and equipment management systems may all require usernames and passwords.
The question every station should be able to answer is simple: Who has the password?
When One Person Knows Everything
In smaller organizations, it is common for one employee, volunteer, contractor, or technically knowledgeable person to set up many of the station’s accounts. Over time, that person may become the only individual who knows how everything is accessed.
That arrangement may work perfectly for years. Then the person retires, leaves the organization, becomes unavailable, or forgets how an account was configured.
Suddenly, something as simple as updating a website, accessing a YouTube channel, or changing a streaming configuration can become a major problem.
Stations should know which accounts they have, who has authorized access to them, and how to recover access if necessary. Just as importantly, the station itself should maintain ownership of important accounts rather than relying entirely on an individual’s personal email address or phone number.
Stop Sharing Passwords
One password shared among several people may seem convenient, but it creates unnecessary risk.
Whenever possible, systems should provide individual accounts for each authorized user. This makes it easier to add or remove access without changing credentials for everyone.
It also provides accountability. If several people use the same username and password, determining who made a change can become difficult.
Passwords should also be unique. Using the same password across email, social media, streaming services, and other systems means that a compromised account could expose several others.
Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication, commonly called MFA, adds another layer of security beyond a password.
If someone obtains a password, MFA can help prevent them from accessing the account without an additional verification step.
However, stations should also think about who controls that verification method. If an account sends every verification code to one employee’s personal phone, what happens when that employee leaves?
Whenever possible, recovery information and authentication methods should remain under organizational control. Backup recovery methods should also be reviewed so the station does not accidentally lock itself out of an important account.
Do Not Forget the Equipment
Digital security does not end with websites and social media.
Modern broadcast equipment is increasingly connected to networks. PTZ cameras, video switchers, encoders, streaming systems, servers, network-attached storage, automation systems, and other devices may have their own administrative passwords.
Default passwords should be changed, and administrative access should be limited to people who actually need it.
Stations should also document important configuration information. If a device fails and has to be replaced, having the necessary information available can save considerable time.
What Happens When Someone Leaves?
This is where having a documented process becomes important.
When an employee, contractor, intern, or volunteer who had access to station systems leaves, their access should be reviewed promptly. Accounts may need to be disabled, passwords may need to be changed, and shared access should be examined.
Waiting until there is a problem is not a good security strategy.
The same principle applies when someone new joins the station. Give people access to what they need to perform their responsibilities rather than automatically providing access to everything.
Final Thoughts
Stations should also periodically review their accounts, even when nobody has left. An annual or semiannual review can uncover old accounts, outdated recovery information, unnecessary access, or services the station no longer uses.
Community television has changed tremendously, and station security has changed with it. Cameras, switchers, servers, streaming platforms, websites, social media, and cloud services have created incredible opportunities, but they have also created more digital assets that stations must manage responsibly.
Every station should periodically ask a few simple questions: What digital accounts do we have? Who can access them? Is multi-factor authentication enabled? Can we recover the accounts if someone leaves? Are important credentials and configurations properly documented?
These are relatively simple questions, but answering them before something goes wrong can save a station considerable time, frustration, and potentially money.
If the answer to “Who has the password?” is only one person’s name, it may be time to take a closer look.
About the Author
John has worked with technology and media for over 30 years. If your community television station has questions about technology, security, networking, or production infrastructure, he welcomes the opportunity to connect and share ideas.
Posted: August 20, 2026 by Rich Desimone
News from Trenton & Washington, DC and FCC Legislation Changes
by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
Reminder: ADA Title II Web and Mobility Access Compliance with the WCAG 2.1 Level AA Rules – Quickly Approaching
Starting April 24, 2027, any video published on government websites (or anywhere on the web) must include closed captioning. This new rule applies to local governments serving more than 50,000 people who provide online communications held to a minimum WCAG standard, but will extend to all government websites with less than 50,000 residents starting April 24, 2028.
This rule requires captioning for all online VOD and livestreamed content, and adding a descriptive audio track for pre-recorded video that will also be aired online.
Organizations should determine the costs for compliance with the new rule and plan either to meet the standards or to make the case that compliance with one or more elements presents an undue burden. In either case, decision makers with local government need to be involved.
Regardless of the Federal Government’s enforcement of the ADA, these rules can be enforced through private legal action; so, local governments and non-profits would be subject to legal liability if they fail to act appropriately.
Organizations are not exempt from ADA requirements. All non-profits and local governments need to assess the costs of providing effective communication for constituents. Solutions must be based on what constituents need. Exceptions can be made if that service fundamentally changes what the organization does or if it presents an undue economic burden. Guidelines are at https://www.ada.gov/resources/effective-communication/.
If you provide captions, but they are not transmitted by a cable operator on your channels, tell the FCC as this is against the law. Email dro@fcc.org or use the link https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/closed-captioning-television.
Mike Wassenaar and the ACM have shared a slideshow, titled Accessibility Rules Every PEG Channel Should Understand, that highlights everything you need to know about these rules and lists key takeaways about disability access for you to share with your channels and services.
DANGER! Still Floating Around in the Halls of Congress
The American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025 (H.R. 2289)
Last November, a dangerous bill passed out of the Congressional House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee, titled the American Broadband Deployment Act of 2025 (H.R. 2289).
H.R. 2289 gives conglomerate telecommunication companies de-facto power over local zoning laws. It provides no public safety protections for construction of “deemed granted” facilities. Sites will be constructed without any further action by the government, without notice to the local government. It strips local governments of the ability to ensure public safety, manage traffic, protect existing utilities and workers, and maintain fair competition, while imposing no reciprocal obligations on providers.
It empowers providers to install facilities where they choose regardless of local zoning—thus eliminating the ability of local government to balance providers’ and neighbors’ interests.
Not only will local authorities have no control of the rights-of-way, but the franchise fees generated by them as well. Cable franchise renewals would be eliminated—thereby removing the ability of state or local communities to enforce franchise obligations such as build-out, customer service, and PEG. Municipalities will lose hundreds of thousand dollars annually and local programming that provides transparency to the local residents.
In an effort to make our leadership aware of the implications of this act, the Jersey Access Group created the following videos about it:
The first one, is a 3-minute video which details the harmful points of H.R. 2289.
1-Minute Overview of this Act.
CG Version – “Alternating the Future of Our Stations – HR 2289”.
If you have not done so already, please forward both these videos to your local, state, and federal lawmakers to make everyone aware and informed of the dangers of H.R. 2289 to your local municipalities. Also, please consider airing them on your television channels and other means of communication to make the members of your community informed as well.
Please contact us if you are in need of any further information on these two stories.
David Garb, Legislative Chair
Jersey Access Group
davegarb@paps.net
Doug Seidel, President
Jersey Access Group
dseidel@piscatawaynj.org
Bob Duthaler, Former President
Jersey Access Group
bduthaler@jagonline.org
Mike Wassenaar, President
Alliance for Community Media
mwassenaar@allcommunitymedia.org
Posted: August 20, 2026 by Rich Desimone
One Operator. A Much Smarter Production.
By Yervant Keshishian, Technical Director and Sales Engineer, Varto Technologies
What JAG members will see at Varto Technologies on September 30
Live-production gear can do more than ever. That does not mean it is always easier to run. The meeting still has to start on time. A remote guest may need to join. A presenter may step away from the podium. Cameras, graphics, recording, and streaming all have to stay on track, often with one person running the show.
When JAG returns to Varto Technologies on September 30, we will put several newer tools together and show how they can take some of the routine work off the operator’s plate. The point is not to automate every decision. It is to give the operator more time to watch the production and make the decisions that matter.
Let the camera help
PTZ cameras have already changed the way many council chambers, studios, and meeting spaces are produced. Tracking and framing tools take that a step further.
Using our Panasonic UE100 cameras with Panasonic’s software-based tracking tools, we will demonstrate how a camera can follow a presenter as they move and maintain a useful shot. We will also talk about setup and where an operator still needs to step in. Good tracking does not replace the operator. It gives the operator a usable shot while attention is needed somewhere else.
Build controls around the job
Starting a meeting can mean recalling camera presets, preparing graphics, checking the remote guest, starting the recording and confirming the stream. Those actions may be spread across several systems.
A programmable surface such as Stream Deck, paired with tools like Companion and Central Control, can bring the most useful functions into one clearly labeled place. Instead of hunting through several interfaces, the operator can see buttons for familiar tasks such as Meeting Start, Remote Guest, Public Comment, Break, and Meeting End.
We will show several examples at work in a live TriCaster production. This is not about creating one magic button that runs the show. It is about cutting down the repetitive clicks and giving the operator a cleaner way to work.
Bring remote guests into the production
Remote participation is changing too. Supported Zoom Rooms workflows can make participants and shared content available as NDI sources on the production network. On September 30, a remote participant will join over NDI and take a place alongside cameras, graphics, and other content in the TriCaster environment.
That is a cleaner way to think about remote contribution rather than treating the Zoom computer as a separate box with its own capture hardware and improvised routing. We will bring these ideas together in a live demonstration and leave time for questions. Members are welcome to stay afterward, get hands-on with the systems, and continue the conversation.
Posted: July 29, 2026 by Doug Seidel
When Live Broadcasts Go Wrong
by John C. Morley, Independent Producer
Most people assume that when they watch a live television program, community meeting, sporting event, or livestream, everything unfolds exactly as planned. In reality, every live production carries a level of uncertainty. Equipment can fail, unexpected situations can arise, and people can make mistakes. The difference between an amateur production and a professional one is often not whether something goes wrong, but how quickly and calmly the production team responds.
For viewers, a live broadcast may appear effortless. Behind the scenes, however, a team of professionals constantly monitors every camera, microphone, graphic, video source, and audio feed. Their job is not only to produce a quality program but also to anticipate problems before the audience ever notices them.
Preparation Is the First Line of Defense
Long before a live broadcast begins, production teams spend time preparing for situations they hope never occur. Equipment is tested, microphones are checked, batteries are replaced, graphics are reviewed, cameras are positioned, and communication systems are verified.
Many production crews rely on detailed checklists before every broadcast. While these may seem routine, they help prevent small oversights from becoming major problems during a live production.
Even with careful preparation, live television remains unpredictable.
Audio Problems Can Happen at Any Time
Many production professionals will tell you that audio problems are among the most serious issues that can occur during a broadcast.
A microphone battery may suddenly fail. A cable could become disconnected. Wireless interference might appear without warning. A remote guest may experience internet latency or lose their audio completely.
When this happens, the audio engineer must react immediately. Backup microphones may be activated, audio channels adjusted, or alternate sources brought online. In many cases, viewers never realize there was a problem because the correction happens within seconds.
Cameras Do Not Always Cooperate
Camera issues can occur without warning.
A camera operator may lose sight of a moving subject. A PTZ camera could fail to respond to commands. A video cable may become disconnected, or a signal may suddenly disappear.
Rather than interrupting the broadcast, the director switches to another camera while the issue is resolved behind the scenes. Good productions are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing multiple cameras to cover the same area whenever possible.
Graphics and Video Mistakes
Graphics operators work under constant time pressure.
Names, titles, sponsor information, presentation slides, and prerecorded videos all need to appear at precisely the right moment.
Occasionally, a graphic may contain an error, the wrong title could be displayed, or a video may not start as expected. When this happens, production teams quickly remove the incorrect element, correct the issue, and continue the broadcast with as little disruption as possible.
The audience often remembers the content rather than the brief mistake.
Human Error Is Part of Live Production
No matter how advanced technology becomes, people remain at the center of every production.
A director may accidentally select the wrong camera. A microphone may remain muted. Someone may speak before they realize they are live. A presenter might skip part of the script or unexpectedly change the order of a presentation.
Professional crews understand that mistakes happen. Rather than assigning blame during the broadcast, they focus on solving the problem first. Discussions about improvement come after the production has ended.
Teamwork Makes the Difference
One of the greatest strengths of any production team is communication.
Directors, camera operators, audio engineers, graphics specialists, producers, and technical directors work together continuously throughout the broadcast. Headsets deliver instructions instantly, allowing everyone to react together when unexpected situations arise.
Every member of the team plays an important role, and every position contributes to the success of the final production.
Viewers Rarely Notice the Recovery
One of the true signs of a successful live production is that viewers never realize something went wrong.
They see smooth camera transitions, hear clear audio, and continue watching without interruption. Behind the scenes, however, a production team may have already solved several unexpected challenges before the audience had time to notice.
That ability comes from experience, preparation, communication, and teamwork.
Final Thoughts
Live broadcasting will never be completely predictable, and that is part of what makes it both challenging and rewarding.
Technology continues to improve, but equipment can still fail, and unexpected situations will always occur. What separates professional productions is not perfection. It is preparation, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
The next time you watch a live broadcast, remember that while everything may appear effortless on your screen, an experienced production team is working together behind the scenes to ensure the program continues smoothly, even when things do not go according to plan.
Posted: July 29, 2026 by Doug Seidel
Spotlight: Metuchen Media — Technology Grows Your Station
By Brandon Uhlig, Director of Communications, Metuchen Media
My Metuchen Media Journey
I’m the Director of Communications for the Borough of Metuchen and current studio head of Metuchen Media. I assumed this position in July 2018, after eight years leading operations at ESN-TV, the Edison Schools Network. When I began, I was already relatively familiar with Metuchen, since I had been working just a mile or two down the road. I was excited at the prospect of leading an already successful production facility into the future.
Along with my co-worker Stephanie, I continued the established operations for the first few weeks while I got my feet under me. But, just a few short months later— as things were beginning to click and ideas were starting to blossom—there was a shakeup. Staff cuts turned us into a one-person operation.
Changes bring rebranding and new focus.
That change lit a fire under me, and I decided to redirect METV (as it was known as at the time). I rebranded the station as Metuchen Media and began to concentrate production and distribution to a web and social media-based platform.
Apart from the continuation of Borough Council and Board of Education public meeting simulcasts; I began to add a new element of storytelling to Metuchen Media’s portfolio. Short, exciting and emotionally driven profiles of Metuchen residents and town-wide events.
New tools make a big difference in capabilities and quality.
I took a cinematic approach to the visual capture. Wanting to shoot in a 24fps, high-contrast, dynamic format; I decided to get my hands on a Blackmagic URSA G2 Mini-Pro. I’ve always shot still images with a Canon 5D Mark III, so the URSA G2 was a natural fit since they both use lenses with an EF mount. This saved thousands that would have been relegated to purchasing new lenses if I had gone in a different direction.
The URSA G2 is a dream of a camera that inserted a defined cinematic element, but the camera itself tends to be a bit heavy and cumbersome. I needed something a more manageable and fluid since I was still shooting on my own.
My experience with various DJI drones had me take notice of their catalogue. When they released the Ronin 4D, I decided to give it a shot, and it completely changed everything. The shock absorbing three axis gimbal is nearly flawless and added a certain personality to the camera. This helped take Metuchen Media productions to the next level.
Leveraging new platforms to tell new stories.
The profiles I produced with these cameras perfectly aligned themselves to the social media format. A brief, aggressively shot, and snappily edited emotional piece that could catch the eye of a viewer in the first few frames, before they had a chance to scroll past.
These stories were about exceptional local students, artists, town events and much more. I posted these pieces on any platform I could reach, and the response from the community was immediate and positive. So much so that Metuchen Media has earned three NYNATAS Emmy Nominations since 2019, along with a bunch of Telly and JAG awards that I’m extremely proud of.
Keeping up with Metuchen’s award-winning changes.
Metuchen, as a town, began a bit of a renaissance in 2016 after the creation of the Metuchen Downtown Alliance (MDA). I’ve worked directly with them and their marketing team since I began here nearly a decade ago. They’ve enjoyed substantial growth and notoriety in recent years, and many Metuchen Media productions have supported their image throughout the surrounding area.
This notoriety came to a crescendo in 2023, when Metuchen and the MDA were recognized as the Great American Main Street Award winner. Metuchen Media has been mentioned as a significant element in that recognition since our vision and presentation generated so much interest in the town.
As with every other PEG station throughout the state, the COVID lockdowns changed just about everything. With so many residents altering their daily lives, even several years after the event, we’ve had to expand our public meeting broadcasts.
The future of Metuchen and Metuchen Media.
Originally, Metuchen Media only broadcasted Brough Council and BOE meetings. That has now expanded to include Zoning and Planning Board meetings, along with the occasional committee meetings if a hot button topic is being discussed. That added demand, and the aging of our existing system, forced us to upgrade our live switch to a Tricaster 2 Elite system.
For those who utilize this behemoth, you’re familiar with its reliability and performance. Without it, Metuchen Media would be scrambling on a weekly basis just to fulfil our basic promise to the residents of Metuchen, informing them of the goings on at Borough Hall. After a few years, and many changes to our output, Metuchen Media finds itself at another crossroad. The public’s way of consuming information is changing again and to stay relevant, we need to pivot. That’s a challenge I’m up for, and I’m excited to see where the future takes Metuchen Media, and the rest of us who work diligently in this industry we all love.
Posted: July 29, 2026 by Doug Seidel
Legislative Update July 2026: News from Trenton & Washington and FCC Legislation Changes
by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
Update on the opposition to The American Broadband Deployment Act (H.R. 2289)
For many months, we have kept everyone informed about the American Broadband Deployment Act (H.R. 2289). If passed, this act would give telecommunication conglomerates de facto power over local zoning laws without providing public safety protections for construction of “deemed granted” facilities. Sites will be constructed without any further action by or notice to the local government.
From NATOA (The National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors):
At last month’s U.S. Conference of Mayors Annual Meeting, a resolution was adopted that urges Congress to reject the American Broadband Deployment Act by warning that the legislation would limit local oversight of broadband deployment and public rights-of-way.
They approved Resolution No. 39, expressing strong opposition to the American Broadband Deployment Act, H.R. 2289 and related Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposals that the conference says would preempt local authority over public rights-of-way, zoning, and telecommunications infrastructure.
This Annual Meeting is one of two major meetings of the United States Conference of Mayors each year. The primary purpose of this meeting is to adopt policy resolutions that guide the organization’s advocacy work.
2026 Resolutions of the USCM in the fields of Technology and Innovation include:
A Resolution Expressing Strong Opposition to Federal Preemption of Local Authority for the Benefit of the Telecommunications Industry, Resolution Number 39.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors strongly opposes H.R. 2289 and urges all members of the House of Representatives and the Senate to oppose the legislation or any similar preemption proposal as an unnecessary and unconstitutional taking of local property rights.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors thanks Representative Pallone for his leadership in support of local control and opposition to H.R. 2289 and all those members, Democrat and Republican, that stood with Mr. Pallone in protecting local governments’ police powers and property rights.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that The United States Conference of Mayors reaffirms its opposition to the proposed actions in the FCC’s two broadband dockets, and calls on the Commissions to refrain from taking actions, the authority for which was not delegated by Congress to the Commissions, and even were the power delegated, the actions proposed by the Commissions would result in an unconditional taking of local governments’ rights.
Sponsored by: Brian Wahler (Piscataway, NJ); Angela Birney (Redmond, WA); Connie Boesen (Des Moines, IA); J. Christian Bollwage (Elizabeth, NJ); Leirion Gaylor Baird (Lincoln, NE); Anne Marie Graham-Hudak (Charter Township of Canton, MI); Christina Muryn (Findlay, OH); Michael Owens (Mableton, GA); Satya Rhodes-Conway (Madison, WI); Daniel Rickenmann (Columbia, SC); Jim Ross (Arlington, TX); Keith Wilson (Portland, OR) and Michelle Wu (Boston, MA)
Representative Thomas Kean Jr’s explanation for his lengthy absence.
For many months, constituents of New Jersey’s 7th District (as well as the entire state) wondered what had happened to Representative Tom Kean Jr. He was absent for countless votes with no explanation on his whereabouts. On July 1, we learned the reason behind his absence when Rep. Kean returned and addressed everyone on the House floor with the following speech:
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with deep gratitude for the patience, the kindness, the prayers, and the concern that have been shown to me and my family over the course of the last several months.
This is not an easy speech for me to give. I am a private person by nature, and I have spent most of my life talking about the people that I represent, the issues facing our communities, and the work that continues to be done. Talking about myself has never come naturally, but I believe that I owe an explanation to the people of New Jersey’s 7th District, to my colleagues in this chamber, and to the American people for my absence.
Several months ago, due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I did not believe that this would result in a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression.
Now, when people hear the word depression, many people think simply means feeling sad. But depression is so much more than that. It is physical. It is emotional. And until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be.
The doctors recommended that I remain in the hospital to address my illness. They explained to me that this would be the fastest way to recovery. And to be honest, I was hesitant. I didn’t think that I had time for it. I had responsibilities to my family. I had responsibilities to my constituents. I had responsibilities to this institution.
And like many people, I believed that I could simply push through. But I agreed to follow my doctor’s recommendations. Again, not believing that would result in a long-term stay. I began to understand not only my diagnosis, but how long depression had been affecting my life.
When I first informed the public that I was dealing with a medical issue, I was still trying to understand what was happening myself. When I said I hope to return in a matter of weeks, I believed it. Those were the best estimates that the doctors could provide.
But as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing. There is no timeline for recovery. Only the work of getting better one day at a time.
Today, I am grateful that I listened to my doctors. And I am grateful for the exceptional care that I have received from doctors, nurses, and support staff. I am grateful that I accepted help.
Because today I stand before you healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work that I love. I’ve always been a supporter of mental health care. During my time in the New Jersey legislature, I worked to advance mental health parity. I believed in the cause then, and I understand it in a far more personal way now.
This experience has given me a deeper appreciation for the millions of Americans who face these challenges each and every day. Many do so quietly. Many do so alone. Many do so while carrying burdens that the rest of us never see.
And to them, I would say, asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength. To my constituents, Thank you. Thank you for your patience. Thank you for your understanding. Thank you for your prayers. And thank you for allowing me the honor of serving you.
I also want to thank my staff, who worked tirelessly to ensure that our office continued serving constituents every day during my absence. And most importantly, I want to thank my family, whose love whose support and whose faith carried me through some very difficult days.
This is not a partisan issue. It touches every community, every family, and every corner of this country. If sharing my story encourages even one person to seek help, if it gives one family the courage to have a difficult conversation, or if it reminds one person that recovery is possible, then this moment will have been worthwhile.
I am grateful to be back with the full support of my doctors. I’m grateful to be healthy. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the people of New Jersey’s 7th congressional district. Thank you. May God bless the people of New Jersey and may God bless the United States of America.”
Depression affects a person’s whole body and mind. It can drain your energy and make daily tasks difficult. Sleep and eating habits can change and it can cause real physical aches. We at JAG welcome Rep. Kean back to Congress and extend our wishes and support for his recovery.
Posted: June 30, 2026 by Doug Seidel
What Really Happens Behind the Scenes of a TV Studio
by John C. Morley, Independent Producer
So much that has to happen before lights come on and cameras start rolling.
Most people see the finished program on television, YouTube or social media; or they hear the final voice-over. Very few, however, realize how much time, effort and coordination go into every production. Whether it’s lighting, audio setup and testing, graphics creation, control room preparation, or even the script and production outline, every piece plays an important role.
The truth is that a tremendous amount of technology is at work behind the scenes to make everything appear seamless. When technology is transparent and viewers don’t notice it, that’s usually when it’s working best.
Welcome to the Studio
What viewers see or hear is only a small part of the production process. Most studios contain multiple preview screens that allow operators and directors to frame shots, review graphics, and prepare camera angles before they are broadcast live. Once everything is ready, the director calls for the appropriate camera, graphic, or video source to go live.
Some of the equipment you may find in a modern television or production studio includes:
While viewers may only see a host speaking on camera or a finished video presentation, there is often an entire team and significant technology working together behind the scenes to make the production look effortless. For example, a council member, guest, or actor may move out of frame and it is the production team’s job to ensure the shot remains usable with minimal disruption to the audience—especially in community television environments.
The Control Room: Where the Magic Happens
While the studio floor is where guests, council members, and actors appear, the control room brings all the pieces together to produce a professionally crafted show or broadcast. Think of the control room as the brain of the operation. The control room is where directors, technical directors, audio engineers, and graphics specialists decide what viewers will see and hear, and when they will see or hear it. Did you know that some decisions are made in a matter of seconds to avoid interruptions and maintain the natural flow of a production?
Inside the control room are walls of camera feeds, graphics systems, playback sources, preview screens, remote guest feeds, and sometimes connections to entirely different locations. Every position in the room has a responsibility. Some studios still use camera operators on the floor who receive instructions from the director via headset. Other studios have moved toward remotely controlled PTZ cameras operated directly from the control room.
The audio engineer constantly monitors microphone levels, music, remote audio feeds, and sound effects. The graphics operator prepares titles and visual elements. The technical director instructs the switcher and indicates when changes to camera angles, graphics, and video sources are needed.
Whether your control room has a few people or many, the goal remains the same: create smooth transitions so the audience never has to think about which camera, microphone, or video source is in use.
Lights, Cameras, and Audio
Many people assume the camera is the most important part of a production. While cameras are important, many production professionals will tell you that audio is just as important and, in some situations, even more essential than the video itself. Viewers may tolerate a less-than-perfect camera angle, but poor audio can quickly make a production difficult to watch. That is why microphones, audio mixers, monitoring equipment, and sound checks are critical before any broadcast or recording begins.
Lighting is equally important. Professional lighting helps eliminate shadows, improve image quality, and ensure that hosts and guests appear clear and professional on screen. Proper lighting can completely change the appearance of a production.
Camera placement also requires careful planning. Each shot is selected to help tell a story, maintain viewer interest, and capture the program’s most important parts.
From Recording to Broadcast
Once the production begins, the work continues. Graphics are displayed, cameras are switched, audio is adjusted, and prerecorded segments may be inserted into the show. Depending on the type of production, content may be broadcast live or edited after production. After recording, producers may edit the content, adjust audio levels, add graphics, insert titles, and prepare the final version for distribution.
Today, content may be delivered through traditional television channels, websites, streaming services, YouTube, podcasts, and social media platforms. The technology has changed dramatically over the years, but the goal remains the same: deliver a smooth and engaging experience for the audience. Whether the production is a town council meeting, educational program, interview show, sporting event, podcast, livestream, or community television broadcast, the principles remain the same. Success depends on preparation, communication, technology, and teamwork working together behind the scenes.
Final Thoughts
The next time you watch a television program, community broadcast, online video, or live stream, remember that there is often far more happening behind the scenes than what appears on screen. What viewers experience in a matter of minutes may represent hours of planning, preparation, testing, coordination, and teamwork. While the audience focuses on the people in front of the camera, an entire team and significant technology work together behind the scenes to make the production appear effortless. When everything works properly, viewers never think about the cameras, microphones, graphics systems, or control room. They enjoy the program. One of the most rewarding parts of working in production is watching all of the individual pieces come together. When cameras, audio, graphics, lighting, and people all work together successfully, the audience experiences a smooth and professional presentation without ever realizing how much effort went into making it happen.
Posted: June 30, 2026 by Doug Seidel
TelVue JAG 2026 Conference Recap – AI, Accessibility, Innovation, and Community
by Jesse Lerman- President & CEO, TelVue Corporation
TelVue reconnects with friends, customers, and industry partners at Conference.
Telvue was thrilled to reconnect with friends customers and industry partners at the JAG 2026 Conference. The conference featured timely discussions on AI, accessibility, streaming, and production workflows—subjects that are shaping the future of community media. TelVue participated in several sessions, including the annual TelVue User Group and a panel on AI and PEG: A Transformative Tool.
Highlights of TelVue User Group
At the TelVue User Group, we reviewed key innovations released over the past year, focusing on helping stations save time, improve accessibility, and reach broader audiences. Highlights included:
We appreciate that so many of you attended our User Group. Your feedback was very valuable and helps us prioritize our development roadmap.
AI and PEG discussion
Artificial Intelligence was one of the hottest topics at the conference. During the AI panel discussion, I joined fellow industry leaders to review key trends from NAB and practical applications for AI-powered production, accessibility and workflow automation.
Accessibility remains a major focus as organizations adapt to ADA and WCAG requirements. AI-powered audio description is emerging as an affordable way to make video content more accessible to blind and visually impaired viewers.
Recognition and remembrance at the JAG Awards Dinner
One of the most meaningful moments of this year’s conference took place during the awards presentations. TelVue was grateful to JAG for the opportunity to honor the memory of our friend and colleague, Denise Rolfe. For more than 17 years, Denise worked closely with stations throughout New Jersey and across the country, building lasting relationships and helping customers succeed. Many members of the JAG community knew Denise personally, making it especially meaningful to celebrate her legacy together. JAG also recognized several outstanding individuals for their leadership and contributions to community media. Congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients.
Conference follow up and upcoming innovations
Since the JAG conference, TelVue has been busy working on our next round of innovations and is excited to be unveiling them at the upcoming ACM National Conference:
As the pace of technology and media innovation continues to accelerate, one can only guess what the hot issues will be for next year’s conference, but we can be sure JAG will be ready with the perfect sessions. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.