by Bob Duthaler
As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on the incredible strides we’ve made together at JAG this year. From advocating for local community media to providing resources and networking opportunities for our members, it’s been a year of growth, collaboration, and positive change. I want to thank each of you for your dedication and hard work.
With the holiday season upon us, it’s the perfect time to look ahead and dream big about the future of community media. So, in the spirit of the season, I’ve put together my Holiday Wish List for 2025—my top 10 hopes for what lies ahead for our members, our communities, and the future of access media in New Jersey.
1. Increased Funding for Local Access Channels
My number one wish is for increased, sustainable funding for local access channels. These channels are critical to our communities and provide an essential platform for diverse voices, local news, and educational programming. More funding will ensure that these services continue to thrive for years to come. The way to ensure this is to market your work with both your local government, administration, and community.
2. Stronger Legislative Support for PEG Media
I wish for continued and increased legislative support at the state- and federal-government levels to protect and enhance the work of public, educational, and government (PEG) access media. It’s crucial that lawmakers understand the value of PEG access and work to ensure these channels operate without barriers. Be part of the Legislative Committee and you too can help JAG keep on top of this and help shape legislation in support of our efforts.
3. Expanded Digital Reach
As technology evolves, so too must our media platforms. I hope for expanded digital streaming capabilities and the ability for our members to deliver content across multiple platforms (social media, mobile apps, OTT, and websites) so that we can reach as many people as possible—whenever and wherever they are. Look for this as a session at our annual conference in May 2025.
4. More Collaborative Partnerships
One of the greatest strengths of JAG is the power of collaboration. In 2025, I wish for even more partnerships with schools, libraries, nonprofits, government agencies, and organizational members to create valuable programming and resources for the community. Working together with both the Alliance for Community Media and NATOA. we can amplify our impact.
5. Access to State-of-the-Art Equipment and Technology
I wish for increased access to state-of-the-art production equipment and technology for all our members. With advances in virtual production, live streaming, and mobile video, it’s more important than ever that our stations are equipped to create high-quality content. Let’s make sure everyone learns about and has the tools they need to succeed.
6. Enhanced Professional Development Opportunities
Training and skill development are key to maintaining high standards of programming. I wish for more professional development opportunities in 2025—from workshops and webinars to hands-on training—that empower our members to continue growing in their craft. JAG plans to provide that through our updated conference with a technology forum on day one and a production/management symposium on day two. Save the date of May 14-15, 2025, for our annual event.
7. Recognition of the Importance of Local Content
In the digital age, local programming is more important than ever. I hope for greater recognition of the unique value of community-produced content, from government meetings to hyper-local news. Local media is a pillar of democracy; we must continue to celebrate and elevate it. As members of JAG, you must make this your mission!
8. Stronger Advocacy for Media Access Rights
I wish for a united and stronger voice in advocating for the rights of community access broadcasters. Whether it’s fighting for fair access to cable systems or protecting the free speech rights of local producers, we must stand together to ensure that local media rights are upheld and that our voices are heard. This is the power of the independent producer, the content they create, and the power of JAG to circulate that content.
9. Growth of Community Engagement
I hope for a continued increase in community engagement with JAG member stations. In 2025, let’s find new and innovative ways to involve our viewers in content creation, feedback, and programming decisions. The more connected we are to our communities, the more relevant and impactful our work will be. This is a key role for station managers and cable boards. Let both your local government and community know and understand the value of local access television. This should be part of your marketing plan for each station.
10. A Thriving and Supportive JAG Network
Finally, my biggest wish for 2025 is that JAG continues to grow as a network of support and inspiration for all of us. A thriving JAG means more resources, more collaboration, and more opportunities for our members to succeed. I look forward to seeing our organization and community access television continue to flourish.
As we celebrate this holiday season, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your unwavering dedication to public access media. Together, we’ve accomplished so much. I’m excited to see what we can achieve in the year ahead. May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and time spent with those you cherish. Here’s to a bright and successful 2025!
Warmest wishes,
Bob Duthaler
President, Jersey Access Group
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President’s Message: December 2024 Holiday: Annual Holiday Wish List
Posted: December 21, 2024 by Doug Seidel
by Bob Duthaler
As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on the incredible strides we’ve made together at JAG this year. From advocating for local community media to providing resources and networking opportunities for our members, it’s been a year of growth, collaboration, and positive change. I want to thank each of you for your dedication and hard work.
With the holiday season upon us, it’s the perfect time to look ahead and dream big about the future of community media. So, in the spirit of the season, I’ve put together my Holiday Wish List for 2025—my top 10 hopes for what lies ahead for our members, our communities, and the future of access media in New Jersey.
1. Increased Funding for Local Access Channels
My number one wish is for increased, sustainable funding for local access channels. These channels are critical to our communities and provide an essential platform for diverse voices, local news, and educational programming. More funding will ensure that these services continue to thrive for years to come. The way to ensure this is to market your work with both your local government, administration, and community.
2. Stronger Legislative Support for PEG Media
I wish for continued and increased legislative support at the state- and federal-government levels to protect and enhance the work of public, educational, and government (PEG) access media. It’s crucial that lawmakers understand the value of PEG access and work to ensure these channels operate without barriers. Be part of the Legislative Committee and you too can help JAG keep on top of this and help shape legislation in support of our efforts.
3. Expanded Digital Reach
As technology evolves, so too must our media platforms. I hope for expanded digital streaming capabilities and the ability for our members to deliver content across multiple platforms (social media, mobile apps, OTT, and websites) so that we can reach as many people as possible—whenever and wherever they are. Look for this as a session at our annual conference in May 2025.
4. More Collaborative Partnerships
One of the greatest strengths of JAG is the power of collaboration. In 2025, I wish for even more partnerships with schools, libraries, nonprofits, government agencies, and organizational members to create valuable programming and resources for the community. Working together with both the Alliance for Community Media and NATOA. we can amplify our impact.
5. Access to State-of-the-Art Equipment and Technology
I wish for increased access to state-of-the-art production equipment and technology for all our members. With advances in virtual production, live streaming, and mobile video, it’s more important than ever that our stations are equipped to create high-quality content. Let’s make sure everyone learns about and has the tools they need to succeed.
6. Enhanced Professional Development Opportunities
Training and skill development are key to maintaining high standards of programming. I wish for more professional development opportunities in 2025—from workshops and webinars to hands-on training—that empower our members to continue growing in their craft. JAG plans to provide that through our updated conference with a technology forum on day one and a production/management symposium on day two. Save the date of May 14-15, 2025, for our annual event.
7. Recognition of the Importance of Local Content
In the digital age, local programming is more important than ever. I hope for greater recognition of the unique value of community-produced content, from government meetings to hyper-local news. Local media is a pillar of democracy; we must continue to celebrate and elevate it. As members of JAG, you must make this your mission!
8. Stronger Advocacy for Media Access Rights
I wish for a united and stronger voice in advocating for the rights of community access broadcasters. Whether it’s fighting for fair access to cable systems or protecting the free speech rights of local producers, we must stand together to ensure that local media rights are upheld and that our voices are heard. This is the power of the independent producer, the content they create, and the power of JAG to circulate that content.
9. Growth of Community Engagement
I hope for a continued increase in community engagement with JAG member stations. In 2025, let’s find new and innovative ways to involve our viewers in content creation, feedback, and programming decisions. The more connected we are to our communities, the more relevant and impactful our work will be. This is a key role for station managers and cable boards. Let both your local government and community know and understand the value of local access television. This should be part of your marketing plan for each station.
10. A Thriving and Supportive JAG Network
Finally, my biggest wish for 2025 is that JAG continues to grow as a network of support and inspiration for all of us. A thriving JAG means more resources, more collaboration, and more opportunities for our members to succeed. I look forward to seeing our organization and community access television continue to flourish.
As we celebrate this holiday season, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your unwavering dedication to public access media. Together, we’ve accomplished so much. I’m excited to see what we can achieve in the year ahead. May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and time spent with those you cherish. Here’s to a bright and successful 2025!
Warmest wishes,
Bob Duthaler
President, Jersey Access Group
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Category: Latest JAG News, President's Message