Legislative Update September 2025: News from Trenton & Washington, DC – Changes in the FCC

Around the 21st of August, all PEG Stations who are part of the Altice/Optimum cable system had their channels switched from their normal positions to the 1300-1317 spectrum.

To make matters worse, PEG Operators, Municipal Clerks, Mayors, and the consumers were not notified of this switch happening, though Government Affairs for Altice stated they notified everyone.  Notifications in both the municipal and consumer level were nowhere to be found.  This change not only affected us here in New Jersey but also in New York and Connecticut.

President’s Message: September 2025 – Back In Action and Motivated To Protect

by Bob Duthaler

I also want to take a moment to congratulate and thank the JAG Board for taking swift action during a recent crisis. Several of our member channels discovered that their PEG channels had been moved without notice into what we’ve come to call “Cable Siberia.” Many of our Altice/Cablevision stations woke up to find their channels relocated from the spots they had occupied for decades—some for over 30 years. Municipalities were not notified, consumers were caught off guard, and the changes created immediate confusion.

Spotlight: Clifton Cable Channel – Raising the Bar for Local Broadcasting: Clifton Cable Channel’s Journey of Growth and Creativity

by Mike Solomon, Station Manager, Clifton Cable Channel

When the world shut down in 2020 during the COVID-19 crisis, many people found themselves searching for ways to help their communities. For me, that journey began as a volunteer at the City of Clifton’s public-access television station (Clifton Cable Channel). At the time, I simply wanted to lend my skills to help keep residents informed during an unprecedented period of uncertainty. What I didn’t know then was that this volunteer effort would become a career I now deeply love.

Navigating the Tech Jungle:  QLED vs OLED Which TV is Right for You?

by John C. Morley, Independent Producer

Shopping for a new TV can feel like stepping into a tech jungle—especially when every screen promises to be the best. Whether you’re upgrading your living room or outfitting a professional studio, the choice often comes down to two heavy hitters: QLED and OLED. Without understanding the technology, picking the right TV can feel overwhelming, like wandering through dense underbrush without a map. This guide cuts through the jargon, breaks down the differences, and helps you find the TV that fits your space, viewing habits, and budget.

Legislative Update Agust 2025: News from Trenton & Washington, DC – Changes in the FCC

On July 29, 2025, Representative Rob Menendez (NJ-08) led Democratic members of Congress from New Jersey in demanding that Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick immediately reverse harmful cuts to Digital Equity Act Programs that ensure low-income households, veterans, seniors, and other vulnerable Americans are able to fully participate in the modern economy. 

President’s Message: August 2025 – Annual Board Retreat Update

by Bob Duthaler

The JAG Board of Trustees recently held our Annual One-Day Retreat, an important opportunity to set goals, refine our focus, and plan for the future. I’m proud to share that JAG will continue to grow and support our membership while staying true to our core values. This year, one of our top priorities is enhancing the JAG website, making it a true “go-to” destination for members. You will find the latest news, valuable information, and a members-only section designed to provide exclusive tools and resources.

Understanding Media Licensing for PEG Stations

by John C. Morley, Independent Producer

Whether you’re new to public, education, government (PEG) stations or have been involved for years, questions about how they work always come up. Some stations can be stricter than they need to be, while others aren’t strict enough. So, finding the right balance is key. The main goal of a PEG station is to give local residents, schools, and government groups a platform to create and share content that benefits the community. It’s important to know what you can and can’t air on your PEG station to avoid fines or even losing your license. I’ll also explain what each part of PEG—public, educational, and government—means and why it matters.

Reflections on a Milestone: JAG’s 25th Anniversary Conference Reflections on a Milestone:

by Paul Distefano; Northeast Regional Sales Manager, DeSisti

A Milestone Year for JAG and Me

This year’s Jersey Access Group Conference on May 14 and 15 wasn’t just another annual gathering—it marked a major milestone: JAG’s 25th anniversary. What a way to celebrate! From the Anniversary Banquet with inspiring speeches from founding members, to the energy and quality of the sessions. With all the connections made throughout the two days, clearly the JAG Conference Committee hit the mark in a big way.

Doing More with Less: My Takeaways from the 2025 JAG Conference

by Yervant Keshishian, Technical Director and Sales Engineer, Varto Technologies

Small stations navigate challenges with smart strategies and strong partnerships

Stepping onto the floor at this year’s JAG Conference felt like coming home. After two days of connecting with station managers, volunteers, and colleagues, one theme was undeniable: every station is focused on creating high-quality content while navigating the challenges of tight budgets, limited staff, and aging equipment.

Legislative Update July 2025: News from Trenton & Washington, DC – Changes in the FCC

From NATOA:

On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Senate confirmed Olivia Trusty as a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) commissioner for the term that expired on June 30, 2025. She was also reappointed for a term of five years which started on July 1, 2025. The National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) recognizes Ms. Trusty’s years of dedicated public service as a staff member of the U.S. Senate’s Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation and the Internet, and the Subcommittee on Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection.