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Spotlight: North Brunswick – New Era begins at North Brunswick TV with new and improved Control Room.

by Craig Yetsko, Station Manager, North Brunswick TV

A new era for North Brunswick TV began last summer with the completion of a project that included major improvements to the control room and a new sound system for the Municipal Building Courtroom and Council Meeting Room.

The origins of this transformation began in 2021 as the remnants of Hurricane Ida caused significant damage and closure of the Municipal Building. While the control room and meeting rooms were largely spared much damage, it became apparent that new and upgraded equipment would be needed.

In early 2023, the station began working with Varto Technologies on a plan to integrate high-quality video, audio and presentation display capabilities. Work on the project began in May 2024, with completion in late July. The new setup had its debut at the July 29 Township Council Meeting.

The control room also has six TV monitors connected to the TriCaster TC2 Elite, speakers and a utility computer, with two monitors used for Cablecast operations, audio control and video editing through DaVinci Resolve.

Feedback has been positive from viewers who tell us that video and audio quality is much improved. This improvement is due to the change from the previous analog composite video wiring to HD-SDI.

The components in the control room’s rack unit include new Cablecast VIO, live and VOD servers, TriCaster TC2 Elite server, Blackmagic Design Smart VideoHub Video, Router, Blue Stream Video Matrix, servers for the Shure wireless microphone system and two UPS battery backup systems.

The TriCaster2 Elite includes a Flex Control Surface. The control room also has six TV monitors connected to the TriCaster TC2 Elite, speakers and a utility computer, with two monitors used for Cablecast operations, audio control and video editing through DaVinci Resolve.

The Court Room and Council Meeting Room have Panasonic AW-UE80 PTZ cameras (4 in the Court Room, 2 in the Council Meeting Room) with a joystick controller in the control room. Two 55 inch TV monitors were installed in each room.

The township moved to a wireless microphone system in the two meeting rooms. A Shure Microflex wireless system was installed, which included 12 microphones in each room, two handheld microphones and charging bays in the control room. Previously, the Court Room had wired microphones while the Council Meeting Room had drop microphones from the ceiling.

An enhancement that really elevated the station’s live meeting production is the ability to control the audio levels in each room and the volume of each microphone. Through the Symextrix’s SymVue control screen, the speakers in each of the room’s zones (three zones in the Court Room, two in the Council Meeting Room) can easily be adjusted or muted.


Another item which will enhance presentation in both meeting rooms is the addition of two T-10 Glass touch screens. The touch screen is plugged into a HDBT port while a laptop is plugged into an HDMI port. The T-10 Glass has a control screen, just like the utility computer, that routes the laptop’s screen to project on to monitors in either room.

Since the return to the Municipal Building, the station has also worked with North Brunswick Township High School to receive videos of athletic games and a semi-monthly news show for broadcast. Another initiative that is around the corner is a video podcast with Mayor Francis ‘Mac’ Womack. The station is currently researching equipment to purchase for the setup. Last year, the township received a $10,000 grant from Altice for the podcast project.

With the upgrades to the control room as well as new equipment in the coming months, the future looks very bright for North Brunswick TV to deliver quality programming to the community.

Essential Guide to Video Frame Rates and Conversion Tools

by John C. Morley, Independent Producer

Whether you’re a seasoned video producer and director like myself or just starting, having the right tools is essential for creating high-quality content. I’ve been a long-time fan of both the free and pro versions of DaVinci Resolve, but sometimes, you need to convert video or audio formats quickly and may not have all your professional tools at your fingertips.

Managing video and audio assets is critical, even if you’re not behind the camera. Whether running a TV station, working full-time in production, or creating social media content, understanding frame rates is key. You may already be familiar with:

  • 24fps for a cinematic feel
  • 30fps for television, online videos, and live streams
  • 60fps for high-definition videos, sports, fast motion, gaming, and YouTube
  • 120fps for ultra-smooth slow-motion effects
  • 240fps for extreme slow-motion and hyper-detailed motion analysis

Many cable stations, however, still request the classic 29.97fps format due to older equipment? In this article, I’ll explore frame rates in more detail and introduce some free video conversion tools—like HandBrake—that can help transcode videos into different formats while adding extra features to enhance your footage

24fps: Classic Cinematic Standard

Why Choose 24fps?

24 frames per second (fps) is the standard frame rate used in video production, particularly for cinematic film projects. This frame rate creates the classic movie effect that audiences have come to expect. It produces a natural, slightly motion-blurred look, which our eyes associate with films. Hollywood films are nearly always shot at 24fps because it preserves the traditional film aesthetic.

Many streaming platforms and digital cameras also adopt this frame rate to maintain storytelling consistency. One advantage of 24fps is that it reduces storage requirements compared to higher frame rates, making it a practical choice for long-form content.

60fps: Ultra-Smooth & Realistic Motion

Why Choose 60fps?

For fast-paced content, 60fps significantly reduces motion blur and delivers a fluid, lifelike viewing experience. It is commonly used in:

  • Sports broadcasting to capture every detail of fast-moving action
  • Gaming and eSports for immersive, seamless visuals
  • Action-heavy scenes where clarity is critical

Storage Considerations for 60fps.

Shooting at 60fps requires significantly more storage. While H.265 compression helps reduce file sizes, 60fps still demands more processing power for recording, editing, and playback. Despite the extra storage and processing requirements, 60fps remains popular for sharp, smooth motion and enhanced clarity.

120fps: Capturing High-Speed Action

Why Choose 120fps?

120fps is a game-changer in video production, delivering exceptional smoothness and minimal motion blur. It is widely used for:

  • Slow-motion cinematography to enhance detail in dramatic scenes
  • Sports and action footage to keep fast-paced moments crisp
  • Gaming and eSports content for ultra-fluid movement

Storage & Processing Demands.

Because of its increased frame count, 120fps requires significantly more storage and processing power.

When Should You Use 120fps?

Use 120fps when:

  • Creating slow-motion footage with high clarity
  • Shooting sports or action scenes where every detail matters
  • Producing high-quality gaming or eSports content

Avoid 120fps when:

  • Filming interviews, vlogs, or standard storytelling (24fps or 30fps is often better suited)
  • Working with limited storage or processing power
  • Not planning to use slow-motion playback; higher frame rates can be unnecessary for standard video

240fps: Extreme Slow Motion & Motion Analysis

Why Choose 240fps?

240fps takes smooth motion to the next level, allowing for ultra-slow-motion playback that captures intricate motion details. It is ideal for:

  • High-speed sports analysis (e.g., tennis swings, golf swings, or martial arts movements)
  • Scientific and industrial applications that require frame-by-frame precision
  • Stunning cinematic slow-motion effects

Storage & Processing Considerations.

At 240fps, video files grow exponentially and post-production demands increase significantly. If working in 4K or higher resolutions, ensure you have the hardware to handle large file sizes and processing loads.

Why Do I Need 29.97fps?

29.97fps is a standard frame rate commonly used in video production, especially for television and broadcast. Many cable stations still utilize 29.97fps, slightly slower than the typical 30fps. This adjustment was initially made to maintain compatibility with color television broadcasts designed to work alongside black-and-white systems.

This change was first introduced in the 1950s when color television was rolled out in the United States. The slight frame rate adjustment helped prevent interference with the audio system.

Today, 29.97fps is still widely used for NTSC (National Television System Committee) video formats, primarily in countries like the U.S. and Japan. It’s especially common in broadcast television and streaming services that follow traditional broadcast standards. Submitting a video at 30fps to a system set to 29.97fps could cause problems.

While the two frame rates are very close, the slight difference in timing can lead to synchronization issues, affecting the overall playback experience.

How to Convert Frame Rates (e.g., 30fps to 29.97fps)

Great, now we know how important it is to be in the correct format, but how do I take my frame rate from 30fps to 29.97fps, for example, if I didn’t shoot it in that?

  1. Audio Video Sync. Ensure your audio is correctly synchronized with your footage before converting.
  2. Use DaVinci Resolve. Change the timeline frame rate to 29.97fps, import your clip, and drag it to the timeline. The system will ask if you want to convert it to the current timeline—click Yes.
  3. Use HandBrake (Free & Powerful). HandBrake lets you easily convert multiple video clips. Select the desired frame rate, apply any required filters, and add them to the queue. Hit Start to begin transcoding.

Choosing the Right Frame Rate for Your Project

While 240fps delivers unmatched clarity and motion precision, it’s not the best choice for every project. Due to its storage and processing demands, it excels in action-heavy scenes and slow-motion filmmaking but may not be practical for everyday use.

If you’re a filmmaker, sports videographer, or content creator specializing in high-speed visuals, 240fps is a must-have tool. But, for traditional storytelling, vlogs, or standard online content, 60fps or 30fps may be the better choice for balancing quality and efficiency. No matter which frame rate you choose, understanding the strengths and trade-offs of each will help you make the best decision for your content. Remember, whatever you do, it is all about the story you tell with your media that will captivate your audience.

JAG’s Annual Conference 2025: Sessions & Roundtables

by Rich Desimone, Conference Coordinator

The JAG Conference Committee has finalizing eight sessions for the Production/Management Symposium on the second day of the conference. Four of these will be panel presentations by industry professional and four will be roundtables that include both JAG members and vendors.

Preview of the Sessions

New Jersey’s Film Industry: A Renaissance in the Garden State. Panelists

  • Charles Riccardi, Operations & Creative Director, NJ Motion Picture & Television Commission
  • (Waiting for additional panelists to confirm)

Storytelling. Guest Speaker: George Roy

Grants for PEG and Community Stations. Panelists:

  • George Ruotolo, Chairman/CEO, Ruotolo Associates
  • Amanda Hicks–Associate, DIBHicks, LLC
  • Dianna Pell GPC, Dianna Pell Associates
  • Reed Carlson, Associate, Ruotolo Associates

How to Conduct a Great Interview: Interviewing Skills and Tips. Panelists:

  • Laura Jones, Television Journalists, Award-winning television host
  • Barry Farber, American entrepreneur, sales consultant, author, and talk show host
  • Don Smith, Former On-air Traffic Anchor, Producer/Host, YouTube Channel The Tri State Traffic Show

Preview of the Roundtables

Using College Interns and How to Find Them. Participants:

  • Abigail Wilson, Production Manager, C-NET, PA
  • George Fairfield, Station Manager, Piscataway TV

A Legislative Discussion on What Is Currently Happening Nationally at the FCC, and in New Jersey. Participants:

  • Mike Wassenaar, President & CEO, Alliance for Community Media
  • Gerry Lederer, Partner, Best, Best & Krieger LLP

Beyond Cable: New Ways to Communicate w/Your Citizens. Participants:

  • Jesse Lerman President/CEO, TelVue Corporation
  • Joe Fernandes, Assistant Supervisor, Woodbridge TV
  • Brandon Uhlig, Station Manager, Metuchen Media
  • Bob Duthaler, Managing Partner, DNS Media Group

New Programming Ideas and Best Practices. Participants:

  • Ed Cologna, Station Manager, Newark TV
  • John Morley, Independent Producer
  • Aime Alonzo, Station Manager, Old Bridge Television

Exhibit Hall: The current list of participating vendors includes TelVue Corporation, Planet Network, LiveU, Varto Technologies, Vizrt-TriCaster, G&G Technologies, Cologna Productions, Swit Electronics, JVC Cameras, Tightrope, PTZ Optics, Datavideo, Best, Best & Krieger, NJ Motion Picture and TV Commission. For details and updates on these and all the other events visit: https://jagconference.com

Registration open

  • Discounts are available to all members and their staff.
  • There are options available from full-conference registration to build-your-own registration package by selecting specific days and meals.
  • Thanks to the generous support of our conference partners, we offer a FREE Technology Forum that includes all activities except for meals. Meal tickets purchases can be added when registering.
  • Contact Bob Duthaler, JAG President, at bduthaler@jagonline.org for discount codes.
  • Use this link to register: https://jagconference.com/shop/

Conference schedule

  • Updates will also be sent to the membership on a regular basis as they are confirmed.
  • When they are finalized, conference details will be posted here: https://jagconference.com/

Scholarships available for members

  • Members without financial support from their towns should contact Bob Duthaler, JAG President, at bduthaler@jagonline.org .
  • Options are available to help you and/or a second person (your staff, volunteers, interns, liaisons, and town officials) to attend.

Call for vendors

Hotel Reservations

  • JAG has a special room rate for conference attendees. This rate is good three days prior to the conference and three days after the conference ends.
  • Group Name: Jersey Access Group
  • Group Block Code: JGR. Direct Dial In #: (866) 279-4813 (Please reference the 3 letter code)
  • Hotel Direct Line: (732) 287-3500

Live Link: https://tinyurl.com/4u7t3ams

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

by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair

Last month became an active one for us, but now Congress is dealing with other issues and everything else has slowed down a-bit. So, instead of discussing actions being taken in either our federal or state governments, we are turning our attention to New Jersey for a more in-depth discussion and perspective on what is going on with all legislation and broadband deployment in the Garden State, along with technology backed by acts to aid in emergency situations.

Legislative Highlights at the 2025 JAG Conference

On May 14-15, 2025, JAG – The Jersey Access Group with be hosting its annual conference at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Edison. The conference is aimed at fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among community media staff and independent filmmakers, government officials, educators, and manufacturers to support the growth, opportunities, and challenges affecting our state, communities, and within our industry.

On Wednesday, May 14th, we are presenting Real-time Video Updates and Information During Critical Situations. This session can help you to respond faster and make informed tactical decisions. This is critical for police, fire, and OEM situations. A panel of experts will discuss mission-critical elements such as real-time video surveillance, bonded cellular technology, using drones in the field. The panel will discuss:

  • The National Defense Authorization Act, which includes the American Security Drone Act prohibiting the government from using federal funds to purchase drones made in China or certain other countries.
  • The effectiveness of the collaboration between Local Government Access TV and the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) in disseminating messages to the community. Includes  a live equipment demo.
  • Bob Duthaler, President of JAG moderates this panel that includes:
    • Alex Joice, VP of Solution Sales Engineering, LiveU
    • John Centanni, OEM Director of East Hanover
    • Louis Venezia, Bloomfield Fire Chief
    • Luis Figueiredo, Detective Elizabeth Police Department
    • Yervant Keshishian, Sales Engineer, Authorized Trainer & Technical Director, Varto Technologies;

On Thursday, May 15th, we will present a Legislative Roundtable Discussion on what is currently happening nationally at the FCC and here in New Jersey.Topics include:

  • The latest changes, proposals, and actions happening nationally and at the state level that may have an impact on our stations and municipalities. A panel of experts will discuss issues such as policy changes, regulatory adjustments, and newly introduced bills that might impact our world as we currently know it. Closed captioning and undertakings of the FCC regarding broadband, net neutrality, and spectrum allocation.
  • The moderator will be David Garb, JAG’s Legislative Committee, Chair. Panelists include:
    • Mike Wassenaar, President & CEO, Alliance for Community Media
    • Gerry Lederer, Partner, Best, Best & Krieger LLP

Also on Thursday, May 15th, don’t miss our Legislative Luncheon where Broadband Deployment in New Jersey and The Federal Incentives Funding Them will be discussed. Clearly broadband access is not just necessary but required for so many things: information, education, employment, and entertainment. Now that federal money is being distributed to municipalities to provide broadband service to everyone, JAG members need to understand how this money is used at the local level and what it means for our stations:

  • There are a variety of programs that are supposed to feed money to New Jersey municipalities—the BEAD Program, Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), Universal Service Fund, H.R.278 – BROADBAND Leadership Act, H.R. 339 – Broadband Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act. We will find out where things stand with them, how it could affect us directly, and how changes in our nation’s capital might affect NJ’s broadband efforts.
  • Brian Wahler, Mayor of Piscataway moderates this panel that includes:
    • Robert Boyle, CEO, Planet Networks
    • Joe Rivera, Manager of Broadband Access, New Jersey Board of Public Utilities
    • Gerry Lederer, Partner, Best, Best & Krieger LLP
    • Mike Wassenaar, President & CEO, Alliance for Community Media

To attend these sessions and other at this year’s conference please visitjagconference.com/ to register.

NJ Legislative Actions

For 25 years, JAG has always tried to keep a watchful eye on bills both nationally and state wide that might be an issue for our municipalities and PEG channels in New Jersey. But JAG really started to be legislatively aware in 2011 when JAG mobilizes its membership within 24 hours to combat state legislation that would eliminate the requirements for telecom providers to care or support community media.

While the bill was fast tracked through the NJ Assembly it still needed to be introduced into the NJ Senate. JAG membership met with their state senators to explain the damage the bill would have on local community television. JAG was able to get enough no votes in place so that the bill never was presented before the NJ Senate for a vote. This marked a major victory in what continues to be an ongoing effort by telecommunication providers to remove any support for community media in NJ. Other notable actions on JAG’S due diligence included:

  • 2015 – The NJ Board of Public Utilities was readopting, with amendments, the rules for the “Regulations of Cable Television – N.J.A.C.-14:18”. JAG put in objections stating why certain changes would not work.
  • 2015 – White Paper #6 request, U.S. Representatives Greg Walden and Fred Upton wanted information on the “Reasons for the Continued Existence of (PEG) – Public, Education & Government Television Stations”. JAG created a 10 point response and sent to both Representatives, along with Rep. Pallone and Lance.
  • 2016 – At the request of the FCC, JAG responded with input on Multichannel Video Programming Distributers regarding channel line-up placement. The fight to get HD and not being allowed to place PEG content information on programming guides was paramount, since everyone else was able to acquire it.

Though not legislative, but notable, on our 20th anniversary during the pandemic of 2020, PEG became a spark for allowing communications to flow from leadership down to the residents who needed the information the most. Our member stations found new ways to reach their communities. PEG carried virtual town council meetings, the Governor’s entire daily press conferences, and health crisis related updates from their local officials, and other informational programming desperately needed through the ordeal. This gave our municipal members and PEG channels a chance to prove just how valuable they were to citizens.

In our 25th year, JAG continues to represent the interests of municipal and community television channels in both Trenton and Washington. Our efforts on behalf of our members have never been more important.JAG (Jersey Access Group) is an organization that advocates, promotes, and preserves the right to media production, distribution, civic engagement, and education in support of diverse community voices, through Public, Educational and Government access facilities and other forms of media.

President’s Message: March 2025 Too Big and Too Important to Miss

by Bob Duthaler

In life, some events come along at just the right time. The annual JAG Conference is one of those events! As we gradually recovered from the challenges of COVID-19, we decided to bring back the JAG Conference, and what better way to do so than with a full-packed, one-day event?

The response was overwhelmingly positive, but we heard you loud and clear: you want more. After conducting a survey, we found nearly everyone wanted a multi-day conference with more vendors, more sessions, and a larger, all-around experience. We’re excited to announce that this year’s conference will be more!

Why you can’t miss the 2025 JAG Conference

More than a typical conference. The 2025 JAG Conference is an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth, networking, and making meaningful connections with industry experts and peers. Whether you’re a long-time JAG member or new to our community, this event is your opportunity to do a deep dive into the trends, technologies, and strategies that are shaping the future of local access television.

Save the date

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, May 14th and Thursday, May 15th at the Crowne Plaza in Edison, NJ. This two-day event will be packed with value, education, and networking opportunities hard to find anywhere else.

Day 1. Technology Forum: The Future of TV & Technology

The first day kicks off with the Technology Forum, including an exhibit hall where you can engage in user groups, vendor demonstrations, and cutting-edge technology sessions. Day 1 is about keeping ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry. Day 1 features:

  • A lunch session on the importance of live video during emergency situations and how local access stations can effectively disseminate critical information to their communities.
  • We’re bringing back the Student Symposium. Students from around the state can participate in sessions designed specifically for them along with a guided tour of the Technology Forum. This is an excellent opportunity for future professionals to network and learn firsthand from industry leaders.
  • Our Day 1 Partner’s Dinner celebrates JAG’s 25th Anniversary. You’ll hear both longstanding and new partners talk about their experiences with JAG and how they continue to contribute to our community. With guest speakers, food, drinks, and door prizes, this evening will be an exciting and informative conference kickoff. Get ready to socialize, learn, and be inspired as we review our achievements and honor those who helped JAG thrive for 25 years.

Day 2: The Production/Management Symposium – The Heart of the Industry

The second day is all about Production and Management, and it will be jam-packed with valuable information. We’re offering:

  • Information sessions, panels, and roundtable discussions throughout the day. Topics include live streaming, alternate content platforms, legislative updates, and closed captioning. You’ll walk away with actionable insights that can immediately impact your work and organization. The variety of sessions is so extensive that it’s impossible to attend everything. We recommend bringing several colleagues with you so you can divide and conquer the sessions to maximize your learning experience. You’ll have access to specialized content that’s directly relevant to your role and your future success.
  • Don’t miss our Keynote Lunch Session on Broadband and Its Importance for Access Television. This session explores how broadband access is transforming local access TV and its broader implications for the future of communication. The session includes a Q&A, allowing you to speak directly with the experts.
  • One-on-One Vendor Meetings. You said you wanted more time with vendors and we made it happen. On Day 2, our partners and organizational members will be available for one-on-one or small group meetings. This gives you the chance to have more hands-on, in-depth conversations about their products and services and assistance in updating your facility. Schedule a time that works best for you to ensure you get the most value from these interactions.
  • JAG’s 25th Anniversary Banquet & Awards Ceremony – A Night of Celebration and Networking. On the evening of Day 2, we’ll host the JAG Banquet and Awards Ceremony. The JAG banquet and awards honor members, community leaders, and others who have made significant contributions to the world of local access television. The night kicks off with a networking cocktail hour, followed by dinner and an awards ceremony. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate JAG’s 25th Anniversary and the outstanding work happening in our industry while enjoying the company of like-minded professionals. This is a night to recognize the very best of our community and be inspired to do even more.

Registration is now open. Don’t wait!

The website and registration for this year’s two-day event is officially open! Visit the conference website now at www.jagconference.com to explore all the exciting sessions and events we have in store for you. Be sure to take advantage of the discounted rates for JAG members by using the code JAGmem25.

We also offer special hotel rates at the Crowne Plaza. These rooms will fill up fast, so be sure to act quickly to secure your spot.

We look forward to seeing you at this year’s two-day event! It’s going to be a game-changing conference, full of opportunities for learning, networking, and personal growth. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of something special. Remember, the more people you bring from your organization, the more value you’ll gain from this unparalleled educational and networking experience.

Don’t wait! Register today and be a part of the most important event of the year!

A JAG Parable

by Geoffrey Belinfante, External Relations, Chair

Most of you know that we in West Milford are a very small operation run by an all-volunteer staff. As you might expect, we also have a very small budget. As a result, we truly count every penny. When JAG announced a dues increase this year several of our TV Commission member questioned whether we should continue our membership. I’m happy to report that we have decided to re-up for 2025, and that’s what this article is really all about—the advantages of JAG membership and how we in West Milford have grown to depend on it.

I know that the membership committee and our President, Bob Duthaler have often touted the advantages of JAG membership in this newsletter, so you all my have hear this before, but I think it’s worth discussing again. When considering whether to rejoin JAG, the TV Commission Chairman, Bob Nicholson (a gentleman many of you know) asked me to make a presentation to the commissioners on the benefits of JAG membership. Coincidentally, the mayor had requested a chance to speak to our committee and she was schedule to speak at the same meeting.

This was the first time any West Milford Mayor had requested to speak at one our meetings so it was a big deal. The mayor is aware of JAG and always comes by our booth at the NJ League of Municipalities Conference, but I was surprised that she wanted me to do my presentation before she spoke to the commissioners.

I began by suggesting that our relationship with JAG had changed over the years. Twelve years ago when the township decided to create a municipal channel, JAG was instrumental in helping the committee put together policies and procedures, and an equipment list. Then they gave us the support we needed to get the channel on the air. Now that we have been broadcasting for over 10 years, our relationship with JAG has changed, but it is none-the-less important to the day-to-day operation of the station.

First, I mentioned the cloud-based server that allows us to access programming from other PEG and community access channels across the nation. This allows us to supplement our locally-generated content with programming that appeals to a broad group of citizens from children to seniors. This allows us to take a hyperlocal channel with government programming and turn it into a general interest channel with wide appeal.

In addition, since many of us who work on the channel are retired, our day-to-day experience with television technology has changed. We need the insights that JAG and its organizational members provide to guide us through changes in production technology (that seem to come every month) and what we might consider for our next purchase to make our station look more professional and run more smoothy.

Next, I mentioned all the information we get from our Washington partners (NATOA and ACM) that keeps us aware of changes in legislation that might affect our operation. For example, we keep track of legislation that mandates that we add captions to our public meeting. Perhaps more importantly, JAG helps us monitor the legislative initiatives that might affect the funding we all get from our cable franchisee.

At this point, I was continuing on my laundry list of other benefits (which, incidentally are all available on our website), when the mayor stopped me and said, “Okay, okay, don’t over sell. I’m convinced! Do you want me to pay for the membership?”

Those words represent quite a turnaround from an elected official who normally is looking to cut anywhere she can. It reaffirmed the towns commitment to the station and made us all feel appreciated in a way that had never really been expressed by a mayor before.

The reality was that the mayor didn’t really have to pay for the membership, we just had to allocate an additional $50 from our budget which, I am happy to report, was unanimously approved by the commissioners. I guess the point of this article/parable is that we all need to remember how important JAG is to all of us.

We also need to keep in mind that the organization can only be as good as its members. Get involved, volunteer for committees, make you needs known. The JAG Community is here to help. With hard work and some help from your friends, you too can impress your mayor by giving them programming they can’t live without. Thanks for indulging me in this little soap opera, but if it weren’t for JAG, WM77 would look a lot different and not for the better.

Oakland, NJ: Leading the Way in Fiber Infrastructure

by John Morley, Independent Producer

If you don’t know me, I’m John C. Morley, a serial entrepreneur, engineer, video producer, and certified journalist. I’m excited to introduce my new monthly feature: Tech Trends Unplugged

In today’s digital age, connectivity and communication are essential for the vitality of municipalities. Oakland, NJ, is taking significant strides to establish a robust standard for future growth while reducing costs. In this article, I’ll explore how, why, and specific locations where Oakland has unleashed this innovative flexibility. Additionally, I’ll explore the unique advantages that give Oakland the edge to accomplish this ambitious undertaking.

No great ballpark—now referred to as a stadium—has ever come to fruition without countless hours of planning, engineering, and fundraising initiated well in advance. Crucially, these projects also require a dedicated team of individuals who not only grasp the intricacies of the endeavor, but are also committed to delivering the best possible outcome at the lowest achievable cost without compromising on quality.

Like many successful projects, Oakland, NJ’s project journey started early in the late teens to give it a head start that would ultimately benefit the borough. The town’s foresight was spearheaded by Councilman Eric Kulmala, who brought a unique combination of insight and technical expertise. After over a decade of experience in telecommunications and broadcast engineering at Verizon, Kulmala developed a deep understanding of the significance of owning and deploying infrastructure to achieve cost savings.

His early planning and strategic decisions positioned the borough for future growth and economic benefits. Since transitioning to the role of Mayor, Kulmala has worked diligently to ensure that the town’s initial investments continue to yield positive results, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable development and community prosperity. Mayor Kulmala’s leadership has maintained the momentum of those early efforts and introduced innovative initiatives to enhance the success of the Borough of Oakland, NJ.

Mayor Kulmala’s background helped him understand the benefits of installing a fiber infrastructure and how to reduce costs. If your town or borough lacks knowledgeable individuals in this field, don’t let that be a showstopper. Seek experts who can assist you—the cost savings will show a significant ROI within a few years.

About ten years ago, Councilman Kulmala foresaw the potential for future infrastructure improvements when he noticed that the Oakland Recreation Field was digging trenches for new lighting. Recognizing that a significant portion of the investment outlay is in trenching and conduit, they decided to also lay conduit for a future fiber installation, which was later approved by the governing body.

Oakland Borough completed the fiber installation project around the fall of 2024. This initiative stemmed from a recommendation made by Mayor Kulmala in 2022, who urged the council to secure funding to start installing their fiber infrastructure. Recently, they began using the conduits laid years earlier, with plans to connect various municipal buildings, including the Municipal Hall, Library, Department of Public Works (DPW), Police Department, Senior Center, and First Aid Squad.

Even though I have shared why, when, and where Oakland is deploying this cost-effective infrastructure, you may wonder why your town should consider doing the same. First, having fiber connectivity allows for direct network linking of any municipal buildings or resources. This results in significant savings by eliminating the need for separate payments for each building or venue’s internet, phone, and cable utilities.

Additionally, this connectivity facilitates the integration of essential systems directly to many buildings (including within the police station), such as phone services, IP cameras, security systems, and monitoring systems (for pumps, etc). It also enables the installation of broadcast cameras for local access TV stations, which enhances community engagement and improves communications.

Bergen County and many other locations offer programs that allow towns to purchase internet services, helping them cut costs on connectivity. With a simple purchase order (PO), municipalities can secure internet access for essential services, including fire departments, police stations, and other critical operations.

Lastly, I’d like to address how to get started. It’s crucial to stay informed about upcoming construction projects on your town or borough’s property, such as new lighting installations or other initiatives. You can issue a change order to install conduits for fiber, even if you don’t immediately install or activate the fiber. The key is to future-proof your town, enabling growth and potential cost savings when you’re ready.

If you have any further questions about this technology, please don’t hesitate to contact me. As an engineer with expertise in LANs, WANs, and data center implementations, I am currently working on lighting up a business complex to enable fiber access for one of our clients. Fiber is a reliable alternative to cable, which many residents find unsatisfactory, and the potential savings are significant. I encourage you to remain open to this idea. It could be precisely what your town needs to save money.

Sharing the TelVue 2025 Vision with JAG

by Jesse Lerman, President/CEO, TelVue & Denise Rolfe, Director, Community Broadcasting Sales

It’s a new year. TelVue continues to be excited about our long-time partnership with JAG as we integrate the latest technologies to help you save time, expand your audience, increase accessibility, and generate new sources of revenue. Two letters have revolutionized the way we think now about technology: AI (artificial intelligence).

TelVue previously integrated AI into its broadcast products for automatic captioning and translation. Now we’re leveraging AI for meeting summaries and agenda generation to save time on transcript reviews and manual metadata entry. This allows faster meeting prep and streamlined communication. Agendas are displayed as chapters in your video library and are fully searchable along with the captioning—so your viewers can quickly find and watch specific topics of interest across your government meetings.

TelVue’s accurate and affordable SmartCaption automatic captioning service makes live and on-demand programming accessible to hearing impaired and multi-language audiences. Captions improve viewing in noisy environments or with muted audio. SmartCaption and CloudCast help you achieve Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) compliance for your website and apps which is crucial for government compliance. AI is quickly progressing to be able to generate audio description tracks for further accessibility compliance.

Automatic Government Meeting Agenda Generation & Summarization

Social media is vital for community channels, fostering real-time audience engagement and expanded reach (especially among younger audiences) while providing powerful promotional tools beyond traditional TV. Engaging directly with viewers also offers insights to tailor content and increase viral potential. The HyperCaster already automates live programming distribution to platforms like YouTube and Facebook Live, and now we’re adding automatic video files exporting to YouTube playlists. Our InfoVue Community Bulletin Board simplifies integrating social media feeds into your custom screens. For ready-made screens, the Screenfeed Social Apps package supports Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn with moderation options to approve posts before they air.

TelVue Social Media Integration

HyperCaster V8.6 supports motion logos and backgrounds to enhance on-air graphics and branding. Upload motion graphics as bugs (motion logos) or backgrounds for tickers, snipes, clocks, and program guides to draw more attention to your channels through creative, dynamic branding.

NDI is a high-quality, low-latency protocol designed for live production. HyperCaster AIO models now offer NDI output as a new license option to expand output formats along with SDI, Transport Stream, RTMP, and HLS. While the HyperCaster AIO has long supported NDI input for live and recordings, NDI output adds utility for channel monitoring and NDI-centric workflows.

TelVue also launched an affordable, enterprise-grade cloud storage service for secure video archiving. This expands HyperCaster’s integration beyond NAS and Archive.org. Workflow rules allow automatic archive and retrieval of content to the cloud. It includes a browser-based interface for managing users, files, and folders. TelVue Cloud Storage eliminates the complexities of servers, hard drives, RAID, and backups, which results in a  reliable, long-term archiving solution for municipalities and organizations preserving historical programming.

New TelVue Cloud Storage Service for Secure Archiving

The TelVue CloudCast Paywall option empowers JAG stations to generate new revenue with flexible subscription and pay-per-view models (ideal for sports programming). Initially launched for websites, we are now extending Paywall to OTT and mobile apps for a seamless, TV-everywhere experience—purchase once, watch anywhere. CloudCast Paywall supports 24×7 live channels, live event-only, and VOD programming. It has nDVR for rewinding within live events, cloud recording, and live-to-VOD.

CloudCast Video Ads enable JAG stations to monetize live and VOD streams with pre-/mid-/post-roll ads, creating new platform revenue opportunities through local business advertising partnerships.

Generate Revenue with Paywall & Video Ads

OTT and streaming have driven the rise of free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels. TelVue now offers cloud channels for FAST, with advanced automation features that can benefit community media stations too. Tools like program segmentation, bumpers, and trailers help fill schedules to standard durations (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour) with promos and sponsorship spots to create a more consistent viewer experience.

We look forward to seeing you, presenting these latest developments, and getting your valuable feedback for our roadmap at the next JAG meeting, Feb. 26, 2025 at Bloomfield TV!

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

by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair

As we thought, February has become an active month for us and the news from the nation’s Capital is going full speed ahead. And something we were worrying about is being brought up once again in the House of Representatives.

From the ACM:

H.R. 278, The Broadband Leadership Act was introduced. This bill specifically puts forward a shot clock for all wireless and telecommunications siting in the United States. It puts forward deemed granted procedures if local governments or state governments don’t respond to requests for wireless or telecommunications siting. It formalizes what is essentially no oversight, or extremely light oversight for local governments to use for telecommunications.

One thing that’s curious about the bill is that it basically wants to eliminate the review process for telecommunications siting on structures. This may be part of a package of other bills that could come forward to committee in the House, similar to what we saw in the last legislative sessions. So we might  see something like H.R. 3557 coming forward soon.

From Best, Best & Krieger:

Tillman L. Lay, a partner in the law offices of Best, Best & Krieger, did a quick read of this bill and said the following about it. “It is a son-of-HR 3557, but unlike HR 3557, it is directed only at a rewrite of Section 253. And it’s a killer.”. Here are some parts of the bill that he pulled out:

  • A new affirmative, anti-discrimination prohibition (as opposed to non-discrimination being a safe harbor under the current 253(c))
  • Discrimination definition is expanded beyond discrimination among telecom providers or services to reach discrimination against telecom facilities vis-à-vis other facilities
  • Adds a statutory shot clock and a statutory deemed-granted remedy
  • Locality’s written decision must be issued on the same day the decision is made
  • 44 (and only the incremental costs attributable to the specific telecom facilities at issue, meaning telecom makes no contribution to the joint & common costs of the ROW)
  • Defines “eligible support infrastructure” to include any “infrastructure .. that is … capable of supporting or housing [a telecommunications service] facility”
  • Defines “telecommunications service facility” to include “a facility [designed or used to provide or facilitate the provision of any … telecommunications service] used to provide other [i.e., non-telecom] services.”

Furthermore from Gerry Lederer, Partner, Best, Best & Krieger:

BBK has just issued a legal alert on the threat to local government management of PROW and police powers.  It is titledCall to Action: Impending Threat to Communities’ Property Rights, Revenues and Police Powers Demands Planning and Response from new Telecommunications Legislation and Rules.”

Please click on the link above to read more about this issue.

From NATOA:

On January 28th: the Federal Communications Bar Association’s (FCBA-The Tech Bar) Diversity Committee hosted a panel on “Diversity in the Telecom Sector: Where Do We Go from Here?” Advocates for racial diversity and equity in the telecommunications industry expressed shock and confusion about how to reconcile recent orders with longstanding practice and law.

Clint Odom, Vice President of Strategic Alliances and External Affairs at T-Mobile, emphasized that DEI principles aren’t just modern buzzwords, but were deeply rooted in Constitutional Amendments—including the 13th, 14th, 15th, and 19th Amendments—and reinforced by law. “It’s enshrined in the statute,” Odom emphasized, referring to the Communications Act, “We can’t read it out of existence—it is there. “The Communications Act requires that telecommunications services be made available “so far as possible, to all people of the United States, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex.”

Panelists said that The Telecommunications Act of 1996 reaffirmed principles of equity by emphasizing universal access to telecommunications services. And the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 explicitly prohibited digital discrimination—based on income, race, ethnicity, or geography—in the rollout of broadband infrastructure.

Lastly:

Please check out “This is the Way: Equal Access to Broadband through Municipal Franchising” offered by NATOA member Mike Bradley of Bradley-Werner

“The source of local franchising authority arises from a number of sources including, but not limited to, state law, state constitutions, municipal charters, and state common law, including state statutory and common law recognition of local authority to manage the public rights-of-way. Local franchising is a sovereign power that resides in the states and is not derived from federal law, including the Communications Act.”

This article is in the current edition of Municipal Lawyer, the JOURNAL of LOCAL GOVERNMENT LAW of the International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA).

Mike also reminded us about the following:

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENTITIES: A Small Entity Compliance Guide:

On April 24, 2024, the Federal Register1 published the Department of Justice’s (Department) final rule updating its regulations for Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The final rule has specific requirements about how to make sure that web content and mobile applications (apps) are accessible to people with disabilities.

You can download it at https://www.ada.gov/resources/small-entity-compliance-guide/

JAG (Jersey Access Group) is an organization that advocates, promotes, and preserves the right to media production, distribution, civic engagement, and education in support of diverse community voices, through Public, Educational and Government access facilities and other forms of media.

President’s Message: February 2025 JAG Turns Twenty-Five

by Bob Duthaler

The Jersey Access Group (JAG) is celebrating a significant milestone in 2025 – its 25th anniversary. For two and a half decades, JAG has served as a vital organization dedicated to advancing community media, local access television, and the vital work of cable access stations across New Jersey. As technology and media consumption continue to evolve, JAG remains a pillar in ensuring that communities stay connected, informed, and empowered through local access television. This year’s anniversary marks not only a time of reflection but also an opportunity to look forward to the future of local media.

To commemorate this remarkable achievement, JAG is hosting its Annual Conference: A Technology Forum and Production/Management Symposium on May 14th and 15th, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza in Edison, NJ. This event is particularly important, as it provides members with an opportunity to gather, learn, and exchange ideas while focusing on the latest developments in media technology. The conference will feature a diverse range of topics, from cutting-edge broadcasting tools to innovative solutions that support the growth of local media.

The Technology Forum on the first day is an invaluable opportunity for attendees to explore the newest tools and equipment available to improve their operations. Whether it’s new broadcasting software, production equipment, or emerging technologies that promise to revolutionize the local media landscape, the showcase offers a firsthand look at the future of technology in the industry. For those who want to stay competitive and keep their stations up to date with industry advancements, this event is essential.

Meanwhile on the second day, the Production/Management Symposium will provide an in-depth focus on the operation of local access TV stations. The symposium’s sessions are tailored to professionals who are responsible for the managing of local access channels, offering practical solutions, case studies, and workshops that cover everything from budgeting to staffing requirements. It’s a perfect opportunity for managers to refine their skills and learn new techniques to better run their stations and improve their service to the community.

Attending this event is also an excellent chance for JAG members to network with industry peers, exchange best practices, and foster partnerships that will drive innovation in local access television. The symposium’s networking opportunities are invaluable, offering a platform to build relationships with vendors, professionals, and thought leaders who share a passion for the future of local media. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are at the heart of this event, making it a must-attend for anyone involved in community media.

In addition to the professional development opportunities, JAG’s Annual Conference will also provide members with the chance to celebrate the organization’s 25-year legacy. It’s a time to honor the contributions of past and present members and to recognize the hard work that has gone into making JAG a cornerstone of New Jersey’s local media landscape. The anniversary celebrations will include reflections on past achievements, as well as a look toward the future, highlighting the continued importance of JAG in empowering communities through access to media.

For JAG members, attending this conference is a unique opportunity to gain insights that will directly benefit their stations and communities. The conference covers a wide range of topics that are crucial for staying current with the technological advancements impacting the local media space. Whether you are looking to streamline station operations, explore new technologies, or connect with like-minded professionals, this event has something for everyone. To ensure you don’t miss out on this exciting event, visit the official JAG Conference website at www.jagconference.com to learn more and register. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the industry or new to local media, this conference is an essential part of continuing the work of building strong, connected communities through local access television. Don’t miss the chance to be part of JAG’s 25th anniversary celebration and contribute to the future of local media!