The WCCA TV Newsletter, July 2019

This Month at WCCA TV, The People’s Channel

Will the FCC reduce funds available to PEG channels? At issue is the aforementioned Cable Communications Act and what cable providers are bound by law to give back. Title VI, Section 622 of the act sets a ceiling on the fees cities can charge cable companies at five percent of companies’ gross revenue from that cable service. Last year, the FCC set off a firestorm of criticism when it announced a move to allow cable companies to deduct non-monetary requirements they are compelled to adhere to by the act. This would include providing PEG channels’ capacity and associated costs.

The casual observer might not even know where his or her local PEG channel is among the dizzying list of networks a cable operator offers. When one does look, a cornucopia of critical local content awaits. Whether it is televised city council and school board meetings, college courses or local public-affairs programming, PEG channels are a vital part of a city’s media choices. PEG channels are even more indispensable for working families, the elderly, those with limited transportation or other mobility issues, for whom PEG outlets give a window into our democratic procedures. In addition, because so many PEG channels also offer training in media and equipment, they may be the first place someone can go for an education in media that is more affordable than a big-city college. This learning as well as educational programming is doubled in a scattering of cities where PEG outlets offer both television and radio broadcasts.

In the end, the changes mean less funds available to PEG channels and less for the public, at a moment when money is already scarce. We must STOP this!

WCCA TV Special Presentations

WCCA TV recently attended the Groundbreaking of the Worcester Public Library. The Library renovation project timeline is approximately 52 weeks.The renovations will include a build out of the portico on the Salem Street side, new entrance on Franklin Street, larger teen area, new Children’s Room, new location of the periodicals area, larger Banx Room, and new Innovation Lab and Digital Studio.The renovation will impact the number and type of library programs that they are able to offer at the Main Library. Space will be limited, and construction will take place while the library is open. They will work to ensure library service continues to be available outside of the Main Library. Exclusively on WCCA TV 194 in Worcester, also streaming live worldwide at www.wccatv.com

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WCCA TV Program Notes

  • Know Your Rights is a WCCA TV show to inform viewers of their civil rights, hosted by Ron Madnick. Ron talks about the Abortion Debate in Massachusetts. In another episode, Ron talks about Health Care denied because of religion.
  • Health Matters is a program from the Worcester District Medical Society. Host Dr. Bruce Karlin welcomes Dr. Terence Flotte and Dr. Daniel Lasser to the show. The topic of discussion is Training the Primary Care Doctors of Tomorrow. In another episode, Dr. Bruce Karlin and Dr. Dale Magee talk about 225 Years of Medicine in Worcester. Because your health matters!
  • What’s happening with trash and recycling in Worcester? Tune in to this episode of Rosen’s Round Table to listen to host Gary Rosen’s and his panel members’ ”trash talk”.
  • Perspectives, with Asima Silva, is a WCCA TV program that features local and national guests sharing their perspectives on politics, current events, mental and emotional health, as well as religion. Asima’s guest is Lindsay Conrad Alfieri, the author of From Prom Queen to Hijabi.
  • What It’s Worth is a WCCA TV show definitely worth watching! Host of the show, Tommy Colletta, welcomes Aleks Gjonca, the Executive Chef and owner of the Nuovo Restaurant in Worcester. Chef Gjonca has brought with him some of the delicious Mediterranean dishes served in his restaurant. Yum! You don’t want to miss this!
  • Beacon Hill Chat is a talk show that features interesting people talking about the interesting
    things going on in Central Massachusetts. Host of the program, State Senator Harriette Chandler, welcomes Juliana Brown and Angelann Gachoka from the Girls Inc. Eureka! Program.
  • Human Touch, hosted by Augustine Kanjia, is a WCCA TV program that spotlights refugees and their struggles, challenges and triumphs, in order to bring about understanding and change. In this episode, Augustine talks with members of the Worcester World Cup team.
  • **Healthy Living ** is a WCCA TV program, hosted by Dr. Donald Pelto of Worcester. Dr. Pelto interviews medical doctors and allied health individuals regarding health-related issues, such as losing weight, diabetes, and much more. Dr. Pelto’s guests are Jay and Judy Angelico to talk about Intermittent Fasting. In another episode, Dr. Pelto explains the different types of Ankle Pain.
  • Connecting The Dots is a non-traditional legal program with the emphasis on the attorney as a trusted advisor, with an interdisciplinary approach to solving life’s issues. Host of the program, Attorney Liz Myska, welcomes Cynthia Walsh MacKenzie, Broker/Owner at Walsh and Associates Real Estate.
  • Activate Worcester, hosted by Ron Motta, is a WCC TV program that shows viewers how to participate and become active in Worcester. In this episode, Ron chats with Jay Givan. Stay tuned!
  • Band Edge is a WCCA TV produced local-music show, spotlighting Worcester-area bands, solo singer/songwriters, and instrumentalists. Johnny Casual, an acoustic Jazz duo with a soulful R&B spin, is the featured band on this episode of Band Edge. Johnny Casual is a musical partnership that’s the result of 50 years of friendship between the guitarist Joe D’Angelo and vocalist John Solaperto. Exclusively on WCCA TV 194 in Worcester!
  • Welcome to Hidden Treasures! Host of the show, Bill Safer, helps you learn how to find that hidden antique or collectible that just may add cash to your life. In this episode, Bill shares some of his favorite hints and tips to help you find hidden treasures.
  • Ben Behind The Scenes is a WCCA TV program that showcases music videos, interviews, reviews, and short films. The show is produced and hosted by Ben Allotey, one of WCCA TV’s longest active producers. Tune in to another episode of pure entertainment!
  • Video Jam is your source for eclectic music videos. Your favorite host, Tracy Foley, has been presenting mainstream and indie rock for more than 10 years on cable TV public access stations. Today’s Playlist features: Fati – L.O.V.E. Love, Jeremie Albino – Hard Time, Val Emmich – Worry, Zana – Nah, The Inoculated Canaries – Sneakers, Judah & the Lion – Why Did You Run?, Kiana Lede – Bouncin, The Avett Brothers – High Steppin’. Keep on jammin’!!
  • Senior Speak is a program by WCCA TV in collaboration with the Worcester Senior Center. Senior issues are discussed and a good time is had by all. Senior Speak is recorded at the Worcester Senior Center, located at 128 Providence St, on Tuesdays at 2 PM. Stop by and be a part of the show!

About WCCA TV

Worcester Community Cable Access is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation administering public access cable television for Worcester, Massachusetts. Our mission is:

  • To advance democratic ideals by ensuring the people have access to electronic media
  • To provide a platform for first amendment rights and for artistic and cultural expression
  • To promote co-operative relations with those who serve the public interest
  • To promote communication through community use of media

LEARN, CREATE, CONNECT!
WCCA TV, Channeling Worcester Community Since 1986!