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.
This was perfectly captured when a township media coordinator came up to our booth. He had a real-world problem, not a product question: “We know we need to upgrade, but we don’t have the budget to start from scratch. How do we even begin?”
His question gets to the heart of the matter. It’s not just about technology, it’s about finding a practical path forward. It reaffirmed my mission here at Varto Technologies: to be a trusted local partner who provides realistic strategies, not just sells equipment.
Getting Started: Incremental Upgrades with Hybrid IP
Many attendees I spoke with were intrigued by IP-based workflows but concerned about the cost and complexity of a complete overhaul. This was a central theme in two of our packed sessions, AV Networking for PEG and Inside the Future of Live Production.
The good news is that you don’t have to switch everything all at once. We demonstrated how integrating even a single piece of modern gear doesn’t just add one feature, it unlocks an entirely new workflow. For example, adding a Vizrt TriCaster Vizion opens the door to powerful tools like Viz Flowics for cloud-based graphics. They all run on a stable network backbone built with gear like Netgear’s AV switches. This incremental strategy allows you to modernize at your own pace and future-proof your station without disrupting daily operations.
Beyond Event Coverage: The Evolving Role of Bonded Cellular
Covering community events is a familiar challenge, but new technology is expanding the potential for even more meaningful community roles. In our live technology showcase, we demonstrated a complete workflow where a remote feed, captured with units like the LiveU LU800, is seamlessly integrated into a TriCaster Vizion switcher, enhanced with real-time graphics, and instantly distributed.
What truly resonated with attendees was the LU-Smart mobile app, which transforms modern smartphones into bonded streaming devices. This empowers staff and even trusted volunteers to easily deliver high-quality video using the phones they already carry. It’s the ultimate example of doing more with less.
Bridging Media and Public Safety
Beyond events, this technology has a critical dual use. This was the focus of another session I was honored to be a part of: Real-Time Video Updates and Information During Critical Situations. I sat on a panel alongside distinguished public safety leaders and fellow technology experts, including a fire chief, an emergency management coordinator and a police detective specializing in drone operations.
We discussed how resilient, real-time video from drones and field units is no longer limited to broadcast news. It is becoming essential for situational awareness for first responders. A key takeaway for JAG members is recognizing your station’s potential role in this ecosystem.
By leveraging bonded cellular technology, you’re not only equipped to cover local events but also positioned as a critical partner for local OEM and public safety agencies during emergencies. Facilitating this collaboration between media professionals and public safety is something I’m deeply passionate about. It highlights how technology truly serves the community.
Strategic Planning: Advocating for Your Station’s Future
One of the most vital discussions I had was during the Building, Expanding or Updating Facilities roundtable. Alongside fellow experts in broadcast lighting and community media leadership, we moved beyond just technology and dove into what it truly takes to secure a station’s future: strategic advocacy.
We agreed that a 3-to-5-year technology roadmap is your foundational document, but its real power comes when you use it to advocate for your needs during any municipal construction or renovation project that could impact your station or its infrastructure. This means pushing for essential infrastructure like dedicated fiber runs between municipal buildings or ensuring conduits are installed before the walls go up.
More importantly, we stressed the need to advocate for your own involvement in the early design stages of any new media space, a practice that ensures it’s functionally built for production from day one, not as an afterthought.
We also explored creative strategies for success, like partnering with other groups such as the Board of Education to pool resources and secure funding for shared facilities. This level of planning and advocacy is the ultimate expression of doing more with less because it secures the physical spaces and financial backing you need to thrive for years to come.
The Value of a Partner in Your Backyard
More than the technology itself, I heard repeatedly the clear need for accessible, reliable local support. When mission-critical gear fails, stations simply can’t afford to wait for replacements from across the country. At Varto Technologies, we’re more than just a vendor; we’re an extension of your local team. Our New Jersey facility offers hands-on training, rapid-response support, and loaner equipment to ensure your operations run smoothly. Our proximity means peace of mind, knowing support is just a phone call or short drive away.
Looking Ahead
Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and joined our sessions at the JAG Conference. Your dedication continues to inspire me and my team, and we are proud to support the vital work you do. As we look ahead, another important focus is preparing your team for the future, whether that means training new volunteers, skill building for current staff, or documenting workflows so knowledge doesn’t leave when someone retires. We’re working with stations to make these transitions smoother and more sustainable through local training and practical onboarding support.
There is a growing expectation to stream everything reliably and without fail. That’s why we’re also helping JAG members build resilience into their daily operations. This includes bonded cellular redundancy, power backup systems, and remote-control workflows that keep productions running even when staff is limited. These small shifts now can prevent bigger issues later.
The future is promising, with emerging technologies like AI-driven automation and cloud production set to streamline workflows even further. As these tools become more accessible, we’ll be right here to help you navigate the changes.
We’re hosting the JAG meeting at our facility in September and we look forward to continuing these conversations in person. In the meantime, if you’re considering your next steps or just curious about your options, we’re here to offer guidance and clarity.
Reach out anytime. We’d love to support your station’s unique journey forward.
Yervant Keshishian | Varto Technologies, Inc. Sales Engineer, Authorized Trainer & Technical Director
Tel: 888-656-6233 | Tel: 201-662-6200 | Fax: 201-604-2661
yervant@vartotechnologies.com | linkedin.com/in/yervantk/ www.vartotechnologies.com
Note: JAG is grateful for the continued support of Varto Technologies. They will be hosting JAG’s general meeting on September 24 at 12 noon. Lunch will be provided at 11:30am. You will also have the opportunity to tour their facility including the state-of-the-art control room pictured here.
News & Events
Posted: August 29, 2025 by Doug Seidel
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.
The City of Clifton recognized my contributions early on. In 2021, the city created a part-time position for me so I could continue to improve the station’s programming. A year later, in 2022, I was offered the role of Station Manager—an honor that came with both responsibility and opportunity. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to enhancing the technical quality, cinematic value, and community relevance of all our productions.
From the start, my goal has been to elevate the way our city meetings (including council, zoning, and planning board sessions) are presented to the public. These meetings are essential to transparency and civic engagement, and I believe they should be captured with clarity, professionalism, and production values that keep viewers engaged. The same philosophy applies to supplementary programming, from concerts and parades to cultural festivals and community fairs.
A major part of this improvement has been modernizing our equipment. When I began, the station relied on basic consumer-grade “soccer mom” handheld camcorders. Since then, I’ve led a complete upgrade to professional-level tools, including the latest Sony DSLR cameras and studio production cameras for in-studio work. These advancements have allowed us to produce programming with crisp visuals, rich color, and a more cinematic feel—raising the standard for what local public-access television can be.
Behind every success story is a strong team, and I am grateful to have one of the best.
My assistant station manager, Anthony Bartlett, has been an invaluable partner in keeping our productions running smoothly. His dedication, technical know-how, and willingness to go above and beyond have made my job easier and more enjoyable. I truly appreciate the teamwork and mutual respect we share. I am also grateful to my boss, John Ricca. John’s support, guidance, and trust were instrumental in the station’s transformation. He gives me the freedom to be creative while providing steady leadership that ensures our projects align with the city’s mission. Without his vision, the Clifton Cable Channel wouldn’t be what it is today.
Our station’s operations run on TelVue products across the board — from live broadcasts to pre-recorded programming. TelVue’s reliability and versatility have helped us streamline production and improve our broadcast quality, making it easier to deliver timely, polished content to our viewers.
In 2024, I was recognized by the Jersey Access Group (JAG) with their Multiple Camera Concert Award of Excellence for our coverage of Super Trans Am 2023. This recognition meant a great deal to me, not only because it validated the hard work we put into that production, but also because it came from an organization that does so much to support public-access stations like ours. JAG provides invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development for its members. I am proud to be part of that community.
As I look to the future, my focus remains on growth. The Clifton Cable Channel has come a long way since 2020, but in many ways, our journey is just beginning. Thanks to the support of the City of Clifton, my colleagues, and organizations like JAG, the possibilities are brighter than ever. We keep building, keep improving, and keep telling the stories of our community—one broadcast at a time. We are focused not just in improving technology and production values, but also in how the Clifton Cable Channel connects with its audience. Our programming continues to inform, inspire, and reflect our city’s diversity. With continued investment in our team, equipment, and creative vision, I’m confident that we will keep raising the bar for local broadcasting.
Posted: August 29, 2025 by Doug Seidel
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.
Today’s two main TV technologies are QLED (quantum dot light-emitting diode) and OLED (organic light-emitting diode). QLED builds on traditional LED/LCD TVs by adding a layer of quantum dots, producing brighter colors, sharper contrast, and a more vivid picture. Samsung led the charge in QLED research starting in 2001, creating the first cadmium-free quantum dots in 2004, with the first consumer models launching in 2015. Brands like Hisense and TCL have also adopted QLED and even formed a QLED Alliance with Samsung in 2017 to advance the technology.
Why QLED shines: Quantum dots allow a broader and more accurate range of colors than traditional LEDs. Enhanced high dynamic range (EHDR) improves contrast, delivering brighter whites and deeper blacks. QLED is ideal for bright rooms, multi-purpose viewing, and content with static images because it reduces glare and carries a lower risk of burn-in. Modern QLED TVs often use mini-LED backlighting, which allows for precise dimming, enhancing brightness and contrast even further.
QLED Pros: Bright, vivid colors; reduced glare; low burn-in risk; affordable.
QLED Cons: Blacks aren’t as deep as OLED; contrast is lower; dark-room performance is less immersive.
How OLED works: Unlike QLED, OLED is self-emissive. Each pixel produces its own light, allowing perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and wide viewing angles. OLED panels can be ultra-thin and even flexible. Professional studios increasingly rely on OLED for color-critical tasks like color grading and visual effects, thanks to its precise color accuracy and superior contrast.
OLED Pros: Perfect blacks; infinite contrast; wide viewing angles; excellent color accuracy; thin, flexible panels.
OLED Cons: Higher cost; lower peak brightness in very bright rooms; potential burn-in with static images.
Choosing the right TV:
For home use: QLED works best in bright living rooms, multi-purpose setups, or budget-conscious households. OLED excels in dark home theaters or cinematic experiences where deep blacks and stunning contrast matter most.
For professional studios: OLED is preferred for tasks requiring precise color reproduction and detailed visuals, while QLED is better for multi-monitor setups or content with static graphics where burn-in is a concern.
Other practical considerations include room lighting, screen size, HDR support (EHDR vs Dolby Vision), connectivity (HDMI, USB, audio outputs), and smart TV features.
Ultimately, both QLED and OLED deliver exceptional picture quality, but each shines in different scenarios. QLED offers brightness, vividness, and affordability, making it ideal for bright rooms and everyday viewing. OLED provides perfect blacks, infinite contrast, and accurate colors, making it the go-to for cinematic home theaters or professional studio work. Understanding these trade-offs ensures you pick a TV that fits your space and needs—turning the overwhelming tech jungle into a clear path toward the perfect screen.
QLED vs OLED: Quick Comparison
Posted: August 27, 2025 by Doug Seidel
Legislative Update Agust 2025: News from Trenton & Washington, DC – Changes in the FCC
by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
Menendez Leads NJ Members in Calling on Commerce Department to Restore Vital Funding for Digital Equity Programs
From OFFICE OF REPRESENTATIVE MENENDEZ:
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.
Menendez and eight members of the New Jersey delegation demanded that the Commerce Department restore $2.75 billion in funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (“IIJA”), more than $20 million of which was expected to benefit New Jersey communities.
“Continued technological advancements make the internet a vital tool to participate in the modern economy. But this is only possible if we close the digital divide and ensure that everyone across the country has equitable access to all available resources,” said Representative Menendez. “For seniors, low-income households, veterans, and those with disabilities, Digital Equity Act funding was crucial, providing them with the skills, technology, and equipment to fully harness the capability of the internet. It’s simply wrong that the Trump Administration would eliminate this funding, and my colleagues and I are demanding that they immediately reverse course.”
The IIJA, passed in 2021, appropriated $2.75 billion for the Digital Equity Act of 2021. In 2024, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration approved and recommended more than $18 million for New Jersey to implement its state digital equity plan. The state would have been eligible for an additional $5 million through grant programs. In May 2025, the Trump Administration announced the cancellation of the entire funding appropriated for the Digital Equity Act.
Funding from the Digital Equity Act provided increased access to digital literacy and skills training in public schools and libraries, expanded telehealth access for seniors, workforce education, device distribution, and educational initiatives that improve broadband adoption for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
In addition to Menendez, the letter was signed by Reps. Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Herb Conaway (NJ-03), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Nellie Pou (NJ-09), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).
Additional From NATOA
Timeline in multi-state suit challenging NTIA’s Digital Equity Act grant dismissals:
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Lawmakers Open Comment Portal on Future of Universal Service Fund
From BROADBAND BREAKFAST:
On August 4, 2025 – Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., announced the launch of a public comment portal to gather input on potential reforms to the Federal Communications Commission’s Universal Service Fund.
It is now live on Fischer’s website, was part of a bipartisan, bicameral initiative led by Fischer and Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., chair and ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media.
The Universal Service Fund (USF) is a federal program designed to ensure that all Americans have access to affordable communication services, including telephone and broadband. It’s funded by fees on telecommunications carriers and is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the direction of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
The USF currently consists of the High-Cost Program, which provides subsidies for affordable phone and internet services in rural areas; the Lifeline Program for discounted service to low-income households; the E-rate Program to connect schools and libraries; and the Rural Health Care Program, which supports telecommunications and broadband services for healthcare providers in rural areas.
The newly reorganized Universal Service Fund Working Group was collecting public input on how to improve the fund’s transparency, accountability, cost-effectiveness, and overall impact. The request for comment asks the public to weigh in on how they feel program performance and progress should be measured; what reforms would reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in each of the four USF programs; and any other suggestions they may have.
“With our comment portal now open, I look forward to reviewing feedback with the goal of closing the digital divide for unserved and underserved communities across America,” Fischer said.
Comments must be submitted by Monday, September 15, 2025.
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The Protecting Community Television Act, S-1994 / HR-3805
in the beginning of June, Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) and Representative Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02), member of the House Energy & Commerce Committee, announced the introduction of the Protecting Community Television Act, S-1994 and HR-3805.
If passed, this legislation would undo rulemaking from the first Trump administration’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that effectively limited the resources available for public, educational, and government (PEG) channels.
An updated promo on this has been created by the JAG, so all of us can get the word out once again about these important acts. Please go to:
Protecting Community Television Acts 2025 & https://youtu.be/G1PP1E42Kqk
For further Information on the Protecting Community Television Acts please visit the National Association of Counties at: https://www.naco.org/resources/support-protecting-community-television-act
Or visit:
https://www.natoa.org/news/sens-markey-baldwin-rep-carter-announce-legislation-to-protect-public-tv-channels
https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sens-markey-baldwin-rep-carter-announce-legislation-to-protect-public-tv-channels
Please urge your Members of Congress to pass the Protecting Community Television Acts.
Local Government Telecommunications Policy Checklist for 2025 – 2026
BBK has issued a Call to Action: Impending Threat to Communities’ Property Rights, Revenues and Police Powers Demands Planning and Response from new Telecommunications Legislation and Rules. For more information visit: https://jagonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Local-Government-Telecommunications-Policy-Checklist-for-2025-2026.pdf
Posted: July 23, 2025 by Doug Seidel
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.
The first attempt at a public access station took root in 1968, eventually becoming known as PEG (public, education, government) television. Key figures behind this initiative included George Stoney, Red Burns (from the Alternate Media Center), and Sidney Dean (City Club of New York). Did you know the first experimental public access cable channel was WSTO-TV, which launched in Stoughton, Wisconsin, in 1970, founded by Job and Janeen Burrel? It’s important to note that while KUHT-TV launched in Houston, Texas, in 1952 as a public broadcasting station, it was distinct from the later PEG concept. The premise of public-access television was to give the general public the opportunity to film and broadcast their own content—similar to how stations like PBS operate today. PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) was designed to disseminate professional content, while public-access stations were set up to provide a platform for anyone in the community to produce and share their own programming.
To start with, let’s break down what each letter in PEG means. The “P” stands for “public access,” providing a system where residents and community members can produce and air their own programs. The “E” is for “educational access,” giving schools, colleges, and other educational institutions a platform to share content such as board meetings, lectures, and student projects. Finally, the “G” represents “government access,” where local governments broadcast town council meetings, planning boards, hearings, and other civic programming. This helps towns be transparent and build trust and support within the community.
With all the different types of content that can be broadcast, it can be confusing to know what is allowed and what is not. It’s very important that your PEG station follows the licensing rules. Otherwise, it could face fines or even have its license suspended temporarily or permanently by the FCC. In some cases, stations might lose their equipment or face criminal charges for airing inappropriate adult material. Most stations understand their purpose and want to serve their community well. However, since many rely on volunteers, there can be gray areas that, if not handled properly, could cause serious problems for the station.
Your station is free to air original content created by you, your team, or local producers. Just be sure not to use copyrighted music, images, or video unless you have a proper license—and make sure you get written proof of that license from the producer. If anyone appears on screen, always get a media release form signed.
You can also air public domain content, which anyone can use without needing a license. This includes some U.S. federal content like material from NASA, the CDC or the White House. Most media published before 1929 is generally safe to use, but always double-check it.
If you use creative commons content, be aware of the license type and what it means. For example: CC0 means no restrictions, CC-BY requires you to give credit, and CC-BY-NC means you can’t use it for commercial purposes. Remember, these rules only apply to the specific creative commons license you’re using, so make sure you understand the exact terms to stay compliant. It might seem obvious but always verify any license directly with the publisher or licensing agency before using the content.
Stations are welcome to use royalty-free licensed media where you or the producer has paid for legal use—sources like Artlist, Storyblocks, Envato, Pexels, and others (always check the terms). Make sure you confirm whether the license allows for broadcast use, and whether streaming is included or requires an additional license.
You can’t air music from CDs, Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, TikTok, movies, TV show clips, images found on Google, memes, random videos from the internet, or anything that doesn’t come with a clear license or usage terms. If someone won’t show you a license or provide it in writing, don’t use it. Also, make sure the license isn’t for “personal use only.” A license that covers live performance doesn’t mean it’s okay for use in video or broadcast.
There’s often confusion about what a CTA (call to action) is. Since PEG is non-commercial, you must follow FCC rules. You can’t say things like: “Buy now,” “Call to book your appointment today,” or “Order now and get a discount.” But you can say: “Thanks to The JMOR Connection, Inc. for supporting our program,” “Visit jmor.com to learn more,” or “Today’s segment is brought to you by believemeachieve.com.” Think acknowledgement, not advertisement, and you’ll stay on the right side of the rules.
Also, don’t fall for the myth that using a 5-second clip automatically qualifies as fair use—it doesn’t. Fair use only applies under specific conditions like commentary, criticism, education, or parody. For example, using a 5-second clip to explain how a boat lock works may qualify, but using it just for entertainment probably won’t. I hope this article has given you some useful ways to keep your PEG station complaint, out of trouble and that you learned something from it. I would love to know what you learned. Feel free to tag back @johncmorleyserialentrepreneur with a video response and I will answer you back.
Posted: July 23, 2025 by Doug Seidel
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.
As you know, as an early vendor supporter of JAG, I have been privileged to be part of this conference from its inception. I’ve also attended a fair share of other organizations’ conferences over the years, and I can honestly say that this one stood out—not only because it celebrated JAG’s quarter-century of advocating for community media, but because it showed that the organization is listening, evolving, and growing in all the right ways.
A Conference with Something for Every Attendee
One of the most noticeable improvements this year was how the conference was structured. It was clear that thoughtful changes had been implemented to balance the needs of all our attendees—members, organizational members, and associated vendors alike. There’s always a tricky balancing act when you’re trying to serve multiple groups under one roof, but the committee pulled it off smoothly.
For those representing municipalities and station staff, the expanded lineup of workshops was a huge win. It was evident that member feedback had been taken seriously. Attendees had more opportunities to dive deep into the nuts and bolts of technical workflows, production strategies, and legislative updates that directly impact operations. Whether you were looking for guidance on IP video transport or navigating state-level regulations, the sessions delivered valuable, actionable information. Even more importantly, they sparked some meaningful conversations outside the conference rooms—those spontaneous hallway chats that often end up being just as insightful as the sessions.
On the vendor side, the changes were equally well received. Giving vendors more time and space to demonstrate their products and engage with attendees in a less rushed environment paid off.
It wasn’t just a parade of sales pitches; it felt more like a collaborative exchange. Vendors had time to explain their solutions, answer questions in depth, and even learn a thing or two from the real-world challenges JAG members face every day.
That mutual respect and understanding between product developers and users is something that sets our conference apart. The vibe throughout both days was one of shared purpose. Everyone in the room—whether a veteran station manager or a first-time attendee—seemed to understand that we’re all part of something bigger. That’s the spirit JAG has fostered for 25 years, and it was alive and well at this event.
Credit is due to the entire conference committee for putting together such a strong program and engaging experience. Planning an event of this scale is not easy, especially when you’re juggling so many expectations and trying to innovate at the same time. But the results spoke for themselves: workshop rooms with engaged members, active vendor booths, and a clear sense that everyone walked away with something of value.
A Moment to Reflect on What We Achieved
Of course, the 25th anniversary gave us all a moment to reflect on just how far JAG has come. What started as a small, grassroots effort to support local access and community media in New Jersey has grown into a dynamic organization with a real voice in the state and beyond.
The conference was a celebration of that history, but more importantly, it was a reminder that the work we all do matters. That message was felt in the sessions, the networking, and the overall tone of the event. If there’s one takeaway from this year’s conference, it’s that JAG is not just celebrating the past, it’s actively shaping the future.
By listening to its members, collaborating with partners, and adapting to new media landscapes, JAG continues to stay relevant and impactful.
On a personal note, I would like to say that I am happy to have been a part of this from the early days and I am privileged to work with such dedicated people. I am impressed with the way JAG has evolved in the past 25 years. I am proud to have been at least a small part of its success. I know that I can speak on behalf of the other organizational members who shared the experience over this past quarter-century in stating that, along the way, we hope we have been helpful.
Oh, and Lee…… It’s not DeSantis…… IT’S DE SISTI. LOL!
Here’s to the next 25 years!Note: Paul Distefano partnered with JAG to produce JAG’s first conference. JAG is proud of the relationship that we built with Paul. His contribution is and continues to be a major component in JAG’s success.
Posted: July 23, 2025 by Doug Seidel
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.
This was perfectly captured when a township media coordinator came up to our booth. He had a real-world problem, not a product question: “We know we need to upgrade, but we don’t have the budget to start from scratch. How do we even begin?”
His question gets to the heart of the matter. It’s not just about technology, it’s about finding a practical path forward. It reaffirmed my mission here at Varto Technologies: to be a trusted local partner who provides realistic strategies, not just sells equipment.
Getting Started: Incremental Upgrades with Hybrid IP
Many attendees I spoke with were intrigued by IP-based workflows but concerned about the cost and complexity of a complete overhaul. This was a central theme in two of our packed sessions, AV Networking for PEG and Inside the Future of Live Production.
The good news is that you don’t have to switch everything all at once. We demonstrated how integrating even a single piece of modern gear doesn’t just add one feature, it unlocks an entirely new workflow. For example, adding a Vizrt TriCaster Vizion opens the door to powerful tools like Viz Flowics for cloud-based graphics. They all run on a stable network backbone built with gear like Netgear’s AV switches. This incremental strategy allows you to modernize at your own pace and future-proof your station without disrupting daily operations.
Beyond Event Coverage: The Evolving Role of Bonded Cellular
Covering community events is a familiar challenge, but new technology is expanding the potential for even more meaningful community roles. In our live technology showcase, we demonstrated a complete workflow where a remote feed, captured with units like the LiveU LU800, is seamlessly integrated into a TriCaster Vizion switcher, enhanced with real-time graphics, and instantly distributed.
What truly resonated with attendees was the LU-Smart mobile app, which transforms modern smartphones into bonded streaming devices. This empowers staff and even trusted volunteers to easily deliver high-quality video using the phones they already carry. It’s the ultimate example of doing more with less.
Bridging Media and Public Safety
Beyond events, this technology has a critical dual use. This was the focus of another session I was honored to be a part of: Real-Time Video Updates and Information During Critical Situations. I sat on a panel alongside distinguished public safety leaders and fellow technology experts, including a fire chief, an emergency management coordinator and a police detective specializing in drone operations.
We discussed how resilient, real-time video from drones and field units is no longer limited to broadcast news. It is becoming essential for situational awareness for first responders. A key takeaway for JAG members is recognizing your station’s potential role in this ecosystem.
By leveraging bonded cellular technology, you’re not only equipped to cover local events but also positioned as a critical partner for local OEM and public safety agencies during emergencies. Facilitating this collaboration between media professionals and public safety is something I’m deeply passionate about. It highlights how technology truly serves the community.
Strategic Planning: Advocating for Your Station’s Future
One of the most vital discussions I had was during the Building, Expanding or Updating Facilities roundtable. Alongside fellow experts in broadcast lighting and community media leadership, we moved beyond just technology and dove into what it truly takes to secure a station’s future: strategic advocacy.
We agreed that a 3-to-5-year technology roadmap is your foundational document, but its real power comes when you use it to advocate for your needs during any municipal construction or renovation project that could impact your station or its infrastructure. This means pushing for essential infrastructure like dedicated fiber runs between municipal buildings or ensuring conduits are installed before the walls go up.
More importantly, we stressed the need to advocate for your own involvement in the early design stages of any new media space, a practice that ensures it’s functionally built for production from day one, not as an afterthought.
We also explored creative strategies for success, like partnering with other groups such as the Board of Education to pool resources and secure funding for shared facilities. This level of planning and advocacy is the ultimate expression of doing more with less because it secures the physical spaces and financial backing you need to thrive for years to come.
The Value of a Partner in Your Backyard
More than the technology itself, I heard repeatedly the clear need for accessible, reliable local support. When mission-critical gear fails, stations simply can’t afford to wait for replacements from across the country. At Varto Technologies, we’re more than just a vendor; we’re an extension of your local team. Our New Jersey facility offers hands-on training, rapid-response support, and loaner equipment to ensure your operations run smoothly. Our proximity means peace of mind, knowing support is just a phone call or short drive away.
Looking Ahead
Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and joined our sessions at the JAG Conference. Your dedication continues to inspire me and my team, and we are proud to support the vital work you do. As we look ahead, another important focus is preparing your team for the future, whether that means training new volunteers, skill building for current staff, or documenting workflows so knowledge doesn’t leave when someone retires. We’re working with stations to make these transitions smoother and more sustainable through local training and practical onboarding support.
There is a growing expectation to stream everything reliably and without fail. That’s why we’re also helping JAG members build resilience into their daily operations. This includes bonded cellular redundancy, power backup systems, and remote-control workflows that keep productions running even when staff is limited. These small shifts now can prevent bigger issues later.
The future is promising, with emerging technologies like AI-driven automation and cloud production set to streamline workflows even further. As these tools become more accessible, we’ll be right here to help you navigate the changes.
We’re hosting the JAG meeting at our facility in September and we look forward to continuing these conversations in person. In the meantime, if you’re considering your next steps or just curious about your options, we’re here to offer guidance and clarity.
Reach out anytime. We’d love to support your station’s unique journey forward.
Yervant Keshishian | Varto Technologies, Inc. Sales Engineer, Authorized Trainer & Technical Director
Tel: 888-656-6233 | Tel: 201-662-6200 | Fax: 201-604-2661
yervant@vartotechnologies.com | linkedin.com/in/yervantk/ www.vartotechnologies.com
Note: JAG is grateful for the continued support of Varto Technologies. They will be hosting JAG’s general meeting on September 24 at 12 noon. Lunch will be provided at 11:30am. You will also have the opportunity to tour their facility including the state-of-the-art control room pictured here.
Posted: July 23, 2025 by Doug Seidel
Legislative Update July 2025: News from Trenton & Washington, DC – Changes in the FCC
by Dave Garb, Legislative Committee Chair
The Jersey Access Group has represented the interests of municipal, educational, and community television channels for 25 years. Our efforts on behalf of our members have never been more important. JAG’s Legislative Committee has kept a watchful eye on bills—both nationally and statewide—that include potential issues for JAG members, their communities, and their operations.
Olivia Trusty Confirmed by Senate as FCC Commissioner
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.
In an April 9, 2025, statement to the Senate, Commissioner Trusty promised to work with “Congress and the Administration to expand access to affordable, high-speed internet services for all Americans; protect consumers from illegal robocalls; strengthen the security of the nation’s telecommunications’ networks; and restore America’s leadership in next-generation communications technologies.”
NATOA looks forward to working with Commissioner Trusty on issues of interest to local governments. NATOA is the nonpartisan local government association supporting our members by advocating for broadband deployment, digital equity, cable services, Public, Educational and Governmental Access (PEG) Television, public safety communications and the preservation of local authority in our public rights of way (PROW.)
Delete, Delete, Delete: FCC Approves Rules to Remove and Streamline Cable Rate Regulations
From the FCC:
On June 26, 2025, the FCC adopted rules that will deliver on the administration’s call for agencies to unleash prosperity through deregulation, by removing from its cable rate regulations approximately 27 pages, 11,475 words, 77 rules or requirements, and 8 forms. This action is one of the first steps in the FCC’s deregulation initiative, “Delete, Delete, Delete,” designed to promote dynamism in American telecommunications by facilitating network modernization, infrastructure development, and performance innovation.
Many of the FCC’s rules governing cable rate regulation have been rendered obsolete or unworkable due to the sunset of cable programming service tier rate regulation and the passage of time. In 2018, the Commission adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to review and update its rate regulations to reduce the administrative burdens on the cable industry, franchising authorities, and the Commission. This adopted Report and Order implements these proposed changes, which will foster flexibility and innovation in this highly competitive industry. These rules will help to increase government efficiency by:
The Protecting Community Television Act, S-1994/HR-3805
As reported last month, Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.) and Representative Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02), member of the House Energy & Commerce Committee, announced the introduction of the Protecting Community Television Act, S-1994 and HR-3805.
If passed, this legislation would undo rulemaking from the first Trump administration’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that effectively limited the resources available for public, educational, and government (PEG) channels.
Under the Communications Act, cable companies negotiate franchise agreements with local governments to provide cable services in a community. The Act caps franchise fees that a cable company pays to the local government at 5% of its revenue. This revenue helps fund PEG stations, as well as other community services (e.g. public libraries and emergency responders). In addition, cable companies historically paid up to 5% cap and provided additional, in-kind support to the community, such as free cable service to schools or access to building studios.
In 2019, the FCC issued a new rule that counted those in-kind contributions towards the 5% cap, meaning cable companies could reduce their cash payments by claiming the value of those services. With fewer cash resources, local governments were forced to choose between investing in PEG programming or supporting other public services. The result has been less funding for PEG stations.
The legislation has already been co-sponsored by Democratic Leader Schumer (D-N.Y), and Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Angus King (I-Me.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.).
The Protecting Community Television Act has also been endorsed by the Alliance for Community Media, the National Association of Counties, the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors, National League of Cities, MassAccess, and Maine Community Media Association.
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.
Posted: June 17, 2025 by Doug Seidel
Spotlight: Manalapan Township upgrades our PEG channels to the 21st Century
by Jan Zachary, Cable Television Coordinator for Manalapan Township
Hi Everyone! Jan Zachary here! I am the Cable Television Coordinator (CTC) for the Manalapan Township Television Network (MTTN) since 2010, after joining the Cable Television Advisory Committee at its inception in 2005. This is my second article for JAG. I wrote another one in October of 2021 and am reporting to you that we now have completely updated with new systems to talk about.
For those of you who are newer members of JAG, I will first discuss some introductory remarks on MTTN. When we formed our ordinances and wrote our policy and procedure manual, the Township Committee informed us that only township events and meetings would be permitted. Only educational and government-sponsored programs would be broadcast on MTTN. We do not accept public programming. We started out with CTC and a program manager. The CTC oversaw the cable station while the program manager organized our volunteers and created content for the station. In 2010, I became the CTC and assumed both functions.
We have a great band of volunteers who help and counsel on innovative ideas relating to Manalapan. All our volunteers, whether on the Cable Television Advisory Committee or just volunteering, must help when they can, by both supporting, setting up and recording our programming.
We work on programs that deal with historical Manalapan such as the Village Inn (1732), the Battle of Monmouth (1778), and the History Fair at Monmouth Battlefield, which is always a major event.
We also broadcast Freehold Regional High School meetings, K-8 regional school meetings, and events. Township Committee meetings and Planning Board Meetings are broadcast LIVE. We also record county and local debates, as well as unique events given by the schools, township, county, and state. We try to cover all events that occur within the boundaries of Manalapan and are relevant to Manalapan.
We operate several outlets. We have Optimum SD (Channel 77), Verizon SD (Channel 42), Verizon HD (Channel 2142), Vimeo, and Facebook. The SD channels run on one server and the HD channel runs on its own server.
Over the last 4 years, we have been negotiating with Optimum on a new contract as well as having discussions with Verizon about adding an HD channel. The results of these negotiations included:
It only took 15 years to do this…. In January 2025, we finalized with G&G Technology with the purchases of:
With this setup, we now can broadcast different programming on multiple channels simultaneously. And, it was not that difficult to learn. I would like to thank all the vendors who took a lot of their time helping us get to the end decision. JAG VENDORS ROCK!
Of course, no one can stand alone. Without the cooperation of Manalapan’s Administration and Township Committee we would not be able to achieve our goals to further enhance our television station. We also receive enormous support and help right here at JAG. If something is going on in the legal world or the technical world of PEG then here is the place to seek guidance.
Thank you to all the members of the Jersey Access group! Manalapan Township, A Great Place to Live!