With all the talk about Boston's Indymedia, I thought I would present the first of the Indymedia's Seattle. Their history and editorial policy which I found to be interesting:
SEATTLE INDYMEDIA
History
The Independent Media Center (www.indymedia.org), was established by various independent and alternative media organizations and activists in 1999 for the purpose of providing grassroots coverage of the World Trade Organization (WTO) protests in Seattle. The center acted as a clearinghouse of information for journalists, and provided up-to-the-minute reports, photos, audio and video footage through its website. Using the collected footage, the Seattle Independent Media Center (seattle.indymedia.org) produced a series of five documentaries, uplinked every day to satellite and distributed throughout the United States to public access stations.
The center also produced its own newspaper, distributed throughout Seattle and to other cities via the internet, as well as hundreds of audio segments, transmitted through the web and Studio X, a 24-hour micro and internet radio station based in Seattle. The site, which used a democratic open-publishing system, logged more than 2 million hits, and was featured on America Online, Yahoo, CNN, BBC Online, and numerous other sites. Through a decentralized and autonomous network, hundreds of media activists setup independent media centers in London, Canada, Mexico City, Prague, Belgium, France, and Italy over the next year. IMCs have since been established on every continent, with more to come.
Editorial Policy
The Seattle Independent Media Center (here after SEAIMC) is an open collective of grassroots journalists dedicated to providing an open outlet for non-corporate news and analysis.
The SEAIMC is an organization that strives to work with all mediums, including print, audio, video, and internet. The website at http://seattle.indymedia.org/ is the online outlet of the organization's reporting.
The SEAIMC is affiliated with the global Indymedia movement. This network works to foster media creation based upon the principles of free participation and association, mutual aid, open-source software, open publishing, and transparent decision-making. As an affiliate of the Indymedia network, the SEAIMC remains committed to these principles.
The website operates two basic media dissemination structures: feature stories and the open newswire.
Feature stories, which are found in the center column of the website, are written and/or selected by members of the SEAIMC collective. These features represent the organization's daily output of news and editorial content. Seattle-area and Washington stories and issues are the focus of features, although regional and global stories are published as well. Features are typically based on content published on the open publishing newswire.
The open publishing newswire appears in the right-hand column of the website, and works as the basic means through which any participant can contribute news and editorial content to the SEAIMC website. Text, photo, audio, video, and several other types of files are publishable on the newswire.
The online newswire is designed to empower individuals to become independent and civic journalists by providing a direct, unmoderated forum for presenting media, including text articles, audio and video recordings, and photographs, to the public via the Internet. Within that general framework, we specifically encourage individuals to publish:
· Well-researched, timely articles
· Investigative reports exposing injustice
· Coverage of Seattle-area and Washington state issues
· Stories on events affecting underrepresented groups
· Media produced from within underrepresented groups
· Stories on issues ignored by the mainstream media
· Stories on people or projects working towards social and economic justice.
· Eyewitness accounts of progressive actions and demonstrations
· Media analysis
The newswire is a democratic forum designed to make available important stories, news, and opinions with local relevance. The newswire operates on the principle of "open publishing" meaning that anyone with access to the Internet can post articles, photographs, audio and video to the newswire without prior editorial approval. SEAIMC is dedicated to maintaining the newswire as a completely open forum. However, the editorial collective regularly watches the newswire, intervening on rare occasions to maintain its usefulness as a media resource and as a welcoming community space.
Content published on the newswire is not endorsed by the SEAIMC, and is subject to a basic editorial policy designed to facilitate open media-making while preventing obfuscation of the newswire as a media dissemination device.
The intent of the newswire is to enable independent reporters to publish news and commentary on contemporary social and political issues. Published material that abuses the editorial policy is liable to be hidden. Published content may also be grouped together if their subject matter is related. Hidden content is not visible on the front newswire archives, and is not included in the website search function. The decision to hide is made by individual SEAIMC collective members who are empowered to implement the editorial policy.
The SEAIMC reserves the right to hide newswire posts that:
1. Advertise commercial services or products
2. Are repetitive or duplicates
3. Contain or link to pornographic content
4. Publicize or advocate actions that actively endanger human or animal safety
5. Use language, imagery or other forms of communication that promote bigotry and/or hatred based upon gender, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, religion, class, age, physical or developmental ability, or national origin.
6. Contain content that has been published on multiple IMC newswires
7. Repostings of corporate media content that is available elsewhere on the internet, or excerpts of previously published material.
8. Appear in an unreadable format (e.g., posts posted as test) or are titled "test"
9. Are obviously false or misleading in terms of author, location, time, or actors. This includes attempts to spread disinformation or impersonate another individual.
10. Are unintelligible (e.g., containing numerous spelling or grammatical errors).
11. Are off-topic or are not news.
12. Are flamebaits made with the intention of provoking argument and/or limiting constructive dialog.
13. Are otherwise inconsistent with the general mission of this website, which is to use media production and distribution as tools for promoting social and economic justice in the Seattle-area and Washington State.
Published content that is included in any of the above categories may be hidden at the discretion of the SEAIMC. The hiding of articles, however, does not indicate that unhidden articles are endorsed by the SEAIMC.
The newswire is a tool intended to facilitate grassroots media dissemination, and the SEAIMC will actively strive to work as a community-based participatory media organization.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Sunday, March 7, 2010
PROMETHEUS RADIO PROJECT:
In relation to our discussions this week, I came across a non-profit organization that works with community organizations across the country to build and operate their own low power FM radio station. This group was orignally started because of their views that mainstream media often provides a narrow view of important issues that face our communities by highlighting the voices of those they consider to be “experts.” These “experts” often claim authority while ignoring those that are most impacted by the topic at hand. The following is a brief interview with "Prometheus Radio Project" to give you an idea what they are all about:
If you’re sick of stale corporate radio and desperate for local alternatives, you may have heard of the Prometheus Radio Project. The Philadelphia-based nonprofit collective—dedicated to empowering communities and spurring social change through community radio—is a proud antidote to the canned corporate sounds of Clear Channel and other radio behemoths.
More than 10 years after a small group of activists with roots in the pirate radio movement founded Prometheus, the organization is working hard to protect existing low-power FM (LPFM) stations from an industry lawsuit and helping the bipartisan Local Community Radio Act, which would open up more radio spectrum space for nonprofit LPFM stations, finally become law.
But Prometheus’ staff and volunteers are also firmly embedded in the grassroots, lending their skills and energy to community groups ready to build a radio station. Since 2002, collective members have traveled around the country for radio “barn raisings,” helping to raise antennae masts, construct studios and build local, vibrant alternatives to an increasingly centralized and corporatized media landscape.
Prometheus staff members Cory Fischer-Hoffman, Andy Gunn, Andalusia Knoll, Anthony Mazza, Sakura Saunders and Pete Tridish corresponded via e-mail with In These Times in early April.
In 25 words or less, what makes you so special? (Keep in mind that humility, while admirable, is boring).
We are a collectively run nonprofit organization of media activists, organizers and techies fighting for participatory community radio.
What’s the first thing that comes up when your name is Googled?
Our organization’s Web site comes up, along with the Media Ownership Lawsuit in which Prometheus sued the FCC for their attempt to trash the few remaining regulations preventing complete monopoly ownership of our media. We won, and that David and Goliath story has made national headlines and is one small step toward ending the corporate domination of our media.
Shamelessly plug a colleague’s project.
Prometheus works with community organizations across the country to build and operate their own low-power FM radio stations. We worked with the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) to build and operate their own radio station. The CIW farm-workers in southwestern Florida have won campaigns for better wages and working conditions against the largest fast food corporations in the country. They are currently battling against modern-day slavery in Florida’s fields and taking on food suppliers like Aramark and Sysco to demand an end to exploitation.
Describe your politics
We are collectively run because we believe that all people’s voices should be heard. We work with social justice organizations that are parts of a larger social movement fighting for self-determination. We believe that we live in an outrageously unequal and unjust society and that those most affected by these imbalances must be at the forefront of changing this system and bringing about justice. We recognize that more democratic access and ownership of the media plays an essential role in this process.
Name a journalist whose work you read religiously. Why?
Seymour Hersh. It’s unfortunately so rare to see a journalist who has worked so long and is so well-respected in the “industry” and still speaks truth to power. Helen Thomas comes to mind as well.
What is your favorite In These Times story?
Well, that’s easy: “Mo’ Power for Low Power.” This piece features the Chicago Independent Radio Project—which, along with other groups across the country, is eager to see our airwaves open up for more community radio stations.
What’s a mistake the mainstream media always makes that really gets under your skin?
Mainstream media often provides a narrow view of important issues that face our communities by highlighting the voices of those they consider to be “experts.” These “experts” often claim authority while ignoring those that are most impacted by the topic at hand.
What’s your favorite Web-based tool for your job? Give us a quick walk through on how to use it.
We love the Prometheus maptool. This was created by a former intern-extraordinaire, and it links to all of the low-power FM radio stations on the air. Check it out!
What’s one piece of legislation (state or national) you’d like to see passed right now?
We are working hard, teaming up with grassroots folks from across the country and media justice and reform organizations from the beltway and beyond to pass the 2009 Local Community Radio Act. This important piece of legislation will expand low-power FM radio to cities, towns and suburbs across the country, opening up the airwaves for hundreds or potentially thousands of new, non-commercial, local, participatory community radio stations.
Are you involved with any interesting forms of activism? Could you tell us about any of these projects?
We are working with people across the country to pass city council resolutions in support of expanding low-power FM radio. Resolutions have been advanced in Urbana-Champaign, Ill.; Hartford, Conn.; Boston, Mass.; Lake Worth, Fla.; Minneapolis, Minn.; and Frankfort, Ky. We are also asking people to sign LPFM Now! Postcards and mail them into their Representatives. Phone calls, e-mails, letters, meetings and surprise visits to congressional offices are an important part of this campaign as well.
How can others get involved?
Call your congressperson right now! Tell them that you support The Local Community Radio Act (HR 1147 & S592), and ask them to cosponsor this legislation as a sign of support for community media.
What campaign should we all sign on to right now?
Join the campaign to expand LPFM. Check out our Web site and get involved. Download a city council resolutions toolkit.
What local media do you depend on?
Prometheus is based in Philadelphia, and the dearth of community media here is what got Prometheus activists involved in these issues in the first place. A few years back however, we were honored to play a role in the re-launch of Philadelphia’s only historical community radio station, WPEB, a progressive, local media outlet serving West Philadelphia.
Have you ever had any run-ins with the law that you’d like to share?
Prometheus grew out of the pirate radio scene, so collectively we’ve had lots of run-ins with the law.
In relation to our discussions this week, I came across a non-profit organization that works with community organizations across the country to build and operate their own low power FM radio station. This group was orignally started because of their views that mainstream media often provides a narrow view of important issues that face our communities by highlighting the voices of those they consider to be “experts.” These “experts” often claim authority while ignoring those that are most impacted by the topic at hand. The following is a brief interview with "Prometheus Radio Project" to give you an idea what they are all about:
If you’re sick of stale corporate radio and desperate for local alternatives, you may have heard of the Prometheus Radio Project. The Philadelphia-based nonprofit collective—dedicated to empowering communities and spurring social change through community radio—is a proud antidote to the canned corporate sounds of Clear Channel and other radio behemoths.
More than 10 years after a small group of activists with roots in the pirate radio movement founded Prometheus, the organization is working hard to protect existing low-power FM (LPFM) stations from an industry lawsuit and helping the bipartisan Local Community Radio Act, which would open up more radio spectrum space for nonprofit LPFM stations, finally become law.
But Prometheus’ staff and volunteers are also firmly embedded in the grassroots, lending their skills and energy to community groups ready to build a radio station. Since 2002, collective members have traveled around the country for radio “barn raisings,” helping to raise antennae masts, construct studios and build local, vibrant alternatives to an increasingly centralized and corporatized media landscape.
Prometheus staff members Cory Fischer-Hoffman, Andy Gunn, Andalusia Knoll, Anthony Mazza, Sakura Saunders and Pete Tridish corresponded via e-mail with In These Times in early April.
In 25 words or less, what makes you so special? (Keep in mind that humility, while admirable, is boring).
We are a collectively run nonprofit organization of media activists, organizers and techies fighting for participatory community radio.
What’s the first thing that comes up when your name is Googled?
Our organization’s Web site comes up, along with the Media Ownership Lawsuit in which Prometheus sued the FCC for their attempt to trash the few remaining regulations preventing complete monopoly ownership of our media. We won, and that David and Goliath story has made national headlines and is one small step toward ending the corporate domination of our media.
Shamelessly plug a colleague’s project.
Prometheus works with community organizations across the country to build and operate their own low-power FM radio stations. We worked with the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) to build and operate their own radio station. The CIW farm-workers in southwestern Florida have won campaigns for better wages and working conditions against the largest fast food corporations in the country. They are currently battling against modern-day slavery in Florida’s fields and taking on food suppliers like Aramark and Sysco to demand an end to exploitation.
Describe your politics
We are collectively run because we believe that all people’s voices should be heard. We work with social justice organizations that are parts of a larger social movement fighting for self-determination. We believe that we live in an outrageously unequal and unjust society and that those most affected by these imbalances must be at the forefront of changing this system and bringing about justice. We recognize that more democratic access and ownership of the media plays an essential role in this process.
Name a journalist whose work you read religiously. Why?
Seymour Hersh. It’s unfortunately so rare to see a journalist who has worked so long and is so well-respected in the “industry” and still speaks truth to power. Helen Thomas comes to mind as well.
What is your favorite In These Times story?
Well, that’s easy: “Mo’ Power for Low Power.” This piece features the Chicago Independent Radio Project—which, along with other groups across the country, is eager to see our airwaves open up for more community radio stations.
What’s a mistake the mainstream media always makes that really gets under your skin?
Mainstream media often provides a narrow view of important issues that face our communities by highlighting the voices of those they consider to be “experts.” These “experts” often claim authority while ignoring those that are most impacted by the topic at hand.
What’s your favorite Web-based tool for your job? Give us a quick walk through on how to use it.
We love the Prometheus maptool. This was created by a former intern-extraordinaire, and it links to all of the low-power FM radio stations on the air. Check it out!
What’s one piece of legislation (state or national) you’d like to see passed right now?
We are working hard, teaming up with grassroots folks from across the country and media justice and reform organizations from the beltway and beyond to pass the 2009 Local Community Radio Act. This important piece of legislation will expand low-power FM radio to cities, towns and suburbs across the country, opening up the airwaves for hundreds or potentially thousands of new, non-commercial, local, participatory community radio stations.
Are you involved with any interesting forms of activism? Could you tell us about any of these projects?
We are working with people across the country to pass city council resolutions in support of expanding low-power FM radio. Resolutions have been advanced in Urbana-Champaign, Ill.; Hartford, Conn.; Boston, Mass.; Lake Worth, Fla.; Minneapolis, Minn.; and Frankfort, Ky. We are also asking people to sign LPFM Now! Postcards and mail them into their Representatives. Phone calls, e-mails, letters, meetings and surprise visits to congressional offices are an important part of this campaign as well.
How can others get involved?
Call your congressperson right now! Tell them that you support The Local Community Radio Act (HR 1147 & S592), and ask them to cosponsor this legislation as a sign of support for community media.
What campaign should we all sign on to right now?
Join the campaign to expand LPFM. Check out our Web site and get involved. Download a city council resolutions toolkit.
What local media do you depend on?
Prometheus is based in Philadelphia, and the dearth of community media here is what got Prometheus activists involved in these issues in the first place. A few years back however, we were honored to play a role in the re-launch of Philadelphia’s only historical community radio station, WPEB, a progressive, local media outlet serving West Philadelphia.
Have you ever had any run-ins with the law that you’d like to share?
Prometheus grew out of the pirate radio scene, so collectively we’ve had lots of run-ins with the law.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
NJN TELEVISION
With what I believe to be the most impotant factor in public access television, FUNDING !!
I found information on New Jersey's statewide public television. Below is a short history of the station. Along with that and myself being in the finance area, I thought it would be interesting to see the station's financial records. I think you will find these financial statements very interesting .
The History of NJN
"And away we go. This is WNJT-TV, the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority, Channel 52, Trenton." With those words on April 5, 1971, New Jersey's first and only statewide public television station went on the air. Since then, the network has grown to become one of the nation's top producers of local programming in the PBS system. This award-winning station embodies public television's mission to educate, inform and empower citizens by providing quality programming for all ages and serving as a valuable community resource.
In 1961, WNET-TV moved from Newark to New York City, leaving New Jersey without a television station of its own.
In 1968, the state Legislature established the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority and passed the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority Act. Voters approved a $7.5 million bond issue to construct four transmitters and a broadcast complex. The Act was signed into law on January 13, 1969 by Governor Richard J. Hughes.
By 1971, the network, known as New Jersey Public Television (NJPTV) was on the air with newscasts and instructional programming used by elementary, high school and college students.
In 1972, WNJS-TV, Channel 23, Camden, was added. A year later, WNJM-TV, Channel 50, Montclair and WNJB-TV, Channel 58, New Brunswick, were in operation, giving the network its full complement of four UHF stations serving the entire state with one signal.
1972 also saw the formation of The Friends of NJPTV, a group composed of New Jerseyans interested in helping the network with fundraising activities, and the first printing of Jerseyvision magazine, a precursor to the current NJN Guide. The network opened a Newark news bureau in 1973 and in 1980, a South Jersey bureau was established at Richard Stockton State College in Pomona.
The network officially changed its name to New Jersey Network (NJN) in 1981.
In 1984, NJN received its first Emmy Awards.
Throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s, NJN continued its community outreach efforts with award-winning productions, including Battered Wives, Shattered Lives in 1985; Throwaway Pets in 1993; and Endangered Flight: The Birds of Siberia in 1995. It has produced many acclaimed public affairs specials.
In 1990, The Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting was established to sponsor activities and raise funds to support NJN, replacing its predecessor, The Friends of NJPTV.
To enhance NJN's tradition of excellence, NJN Radio established its first station, WNJT, Trenton, 88.1 FM, in 1991. Since then, NJN Radio has grown to a network of seven transmitters covering all of New Jersey with programming produced by NJN, as well as national programming from such sources as National Public Radio and Public Radio International.
In July 1993, the network left the former bowling alley in Ewing Township it had called home for more than 20 years for new headquarters: a state-of-the-art broadcasting and production facility located at 25 South Stockton Street in Trenton.
Throughout the 1990s, NJN has remained one of the nation's top producers of local programming among public television stations and has continued to produce documentaries focusing on topics important to New Jerseyans. NJN News covers the politics, education, New Jersey Statehouse, health and medical affairs, environmental issues, youth violence, urban affairs, sports and business in the Garden State.
The network reached landmark agreements with The Television Food Network in 1995 and Atlantic Microsystems, Inc. in 1996, which will add to the network's support over the next 10 years. NJN also held two benefits in 1995 and 1996.
Since its inception in 1989, The Production Center at NJN, the network's media productions department, has seen a steady rise in activity. In 1996, the department attracted the national children's series, Bloopy's Buddies, to NJN studios.
Since 1971, NJN has informed and engaged New Jersey citizens with compelling portraits of the Garden State and ambitious community outreach efforts. By promoting positive change in the community with quality programming and partnerships with community groups and leaders, NJN continues to evolve as one of the country's leading public television stations.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR NJN TV.......
http://www.njn.net/about/NJPBAaudit2008.pdf
I found information on New Jersey's statewide public television. Below is a short history of the station. Along with that and myself being in the finance area, I thought it would be interesting to see the station's financial records. I think you will find these financial statements very interesting .
The History of NJN
"And away we go. This is WNJT-TV, the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority, Channel 52, Trenton." With those words on April 5, 1971, New Jersey's first and only statewide public television station went on the air. Since then, the network has grown to become one of the nation's top producers of local programming in the PBS system. This award-winning station embodies public television's mission to educate, inform and empower citizens by providing quality programming for all ages and serving as a valuable community resource.
In 1961, WNET-TV moved from Newark to New York City, leaving New Jersey without a television station of its own.
In 1968, the state Legislature established the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority and passed the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority Act. Voters approved a $7.5 million bond issue to construct four transmitters and a broadcast complex. The Act was signed into law on January 13, 1969 by Governor Richard J. Hughes.
By 1971, the network, known as New Jersey Public Television (NJPTV) was on the air with newscasts and instructional programming used by elementary, high school and college students.
In 1972, WNJS-TV, Channel 23, Camden, was added. A year later, WNJM-TV, Channel 50, Montclair and WNJB-TV, Channel 58, New Brunswick, were in operation, giving the network its full complement of four UHF stations serving the entire state with one signal.
1972 also saw the formation of The Friends of NJPTV, a group composed of New Jerseyans interested in helping the network with fundraising activities, and the first printing of Jerseyvision magazine, a precursor to the current NJN Guide. The network opened a Newark news bureau in 1973 and in 1980, a South Jersey bureau was established at Richard Stockton State College in Pomona.
The network officially changed its name to New Jersey Network (NJN) in 1981.
In 1984, NJN received its first Emmy Awards.
Throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s, NJN continued its community outreach efforts with award-winning productions, including Battered Wives, Shattered Lives in 1985; Throwaway Pets in 1993; and Endangered Flight: The Birds of Siberia in 1995. It has produced many acclaimed public affairs specials.
In 1990, The Foundation for New Jersey Public Broadcasting was established to sponsor activities and raise funds to support NJN, replacing its predecessor, The Friends of NJPTV.
To enhance NJN's tradition of excellence, NJN Radio established its first station, WNJT, Trenton, 88.1 FM, in 1991. Since then, NJN Radio has grown to a network of seven transmitters covering all of New Jersey with programming produced by NJN, as well as national programming from such sources as National Public Radio and Public Radio International.
In July 1993, the network left the former bowling alley in Ewing Township it had called home for more than 20 years for new headquarters: a state-of-the-art broadcasting and production facility located at 25 South Stockton Street in Trenton.
Throughout the 1990s, NJN has remained one of the nation's top producers of local programming among public television stations and has continued to produce documentaries focusing on topics important to New Jerseyans. NJN News covers the politics, education, New Jersey Statehouse, health and medical affairs, environmental issues, youth violence, urban affairs, sports and business in the Garden State.
The network reached landmark agreements with The Television Food Network in 1995 and Atlantic Microsystems, Inc. in 1996, which will add to the network's support over the next 10 years. NJN also held two benefits in 1995 and 1996.
Since its inception in 1989, The Production Center at NJN, the network's media productions department, has seen a steady rise in activity. In 1996, the department attracted the national children's series, Bloopy's Buddies, to NJN studios.
Since 1971, NJN has informed and engaged New Jersey citizens with compelling portraits of the Garden State and ambitious community outreach efforts. By promoting positive change in the community with quality programming and partnerships with community groups and leaders, NJN continues to evolve as one of the country's leading public television stations.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR NJN TV.......
http://www.njn.net/about/NJPBAaudit2008.pdf
Sunday, February 21, 2010
THE TIMOTHY SMITH NETWORK
THE TIMOTHY SMITH NETWORK
I came across this Community Technology Center located in Massachusetts and thought I would share what I think is our communities greatest resource, our children. The future of this country and our communities begin with the development of our youth. The Timothy Smith Network provides its services to 3,000 students monthly in an effort to better educate and develop the kids of the Greater Roxbury area, a good model to follow. Below is their story.
The Timothy Smith Network (TSN) is a collaborative community computer technology centers working together to help the residents of Roxbury, Massachusetts and its surrounding neighborhoods (hereafter, Greater Roxbury) to build the technological skills, confidence and knowledge required to be successful in the information economy. The TSN provides broad-based support to its member centers designed to ensure that the technology programs and services available to Greater Roxbury residents are of a high and consistent quality and are responsive to resident needs. Each month, Timothy Smith (TS) Centers provide free or low-cost technology-related programs and services to nearly 3,000 students and address a broad range of economic, therapeutic, health, educational, training, human and social service needs of the community. The TSN seeks to provide a model for the development and implementation of coordinated community technology center planning and service delivery in densely populated low-income urban communities.The TS Centers were originally launched in 1997 through grants from the Timothy Smith Fund for “Old Roxbury”, a charitable trust managed by the City of Boston Trust Office. The Fund has authorized grants totaling $2,400,00 to community-based non-profit organizations in “Old Roxbury” for the creation of 40 computer-learning centers. Defined as the boundaries of Roxbury in 1858, “Old Roxbury,” includes the Roxbury neighborhood of Boston, and a portion of the neighboring Jamaica Plain, Fenway-Kenmore, Dorchester and the South End. In addition to start-up funds for TS Centers, the Fund provides regular computer hardware and furnishing upgrades in the sites through 2019. The TSN was established in 2002 to coordinate the services and leverage the collective technical, financial and intellectual resources of the TS Centers to ensure that services and programs offered meet resident needs and are of high and consistent quality. The TSN supports TS Centers to deliver effective technology training and services by: identifying and developing collaborative program and funding opportunities; providing broad-based technical, financial and operational capacity building support to the centers; promoting cross-center cooperation and peer learning through joint trainings and workshops; facilitating the exchange of information among centers through its listserv and website; and developing performance and learning outcomes standards to ensure that all member centers are providing consistent technology programs and services.Since 2002, the TSN has established an impressive track record for managing large-scale grants and funds. The TSN was designated by the City of Boston Trust Office to administer an estimated $500,000 in annual hardware and furniture upgrades for the TS Centers on behalf of the Timothy Smith Fund beginning in 2003. Programmatically, the TSN has partnered with Kinetic City, Science Quest and the MIT Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research (MKI) to bring high-quality science after school programs to TS Centers for youth in grades 3 through 12. Through these partnerships, the TSN has provided high quality after school programming for the benefit of over 4800 Roxbury youth during the past two years.
http://www.timothysmithnetwork.org/TSN/centers-about.htm
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Community Radio - Fordham University
Reading thru the material this week in Community Media, I tried to think back when I first started to listen to community radio. Johnson stated in our readings that "community radio first appeared in San Francisco in the 1940's with the creation of the Pacifica Foundation's KPFA radio station. (Johnson. 5) My first recall of community radio was when I was in High School in the mid 70's.....There was no sports talk radio back then, like that have now 24 hours a day. But being from New Jersey I was about 30 minutes from Fordham University in the Bronx, New York. On Sunday nights when the wave lengths were with me, I could pick up their signal. I remember how much I enjoyed listening and I also remember the nights they used to have their on air fund raisers to collect money to keep the station up and going. It's funny because, I'm sure the college guys and that station are now part of the sports talk radio we hear today.
The below are some interesting facts about the station, their financial reports and a timeline that shows a history or the radio station. I was surprised to see the first broadcast was back in 1947. Enjoy the facts below:
About WFUV
The location, the people, the contact info.
Where we are:
WFUV, Fordham University, Bronx, NY 10458-9993 718 365-9815 fax Phone: 718 817-4550 main line 718 365-8111 membership Plus: 718 817-4535 WFUV Member Line Giveaways for 'FUV members Submit CDs to: WFUV Music Department at the address above - Call Wednesdays 5-7pm for feedback
Who we are:
WFUV is a non-commercial, listener-supported public radio station, licensed to Fordham University for 60 years. Serving nearly 350,000 listeners each week in the New York area and thousands more worldwide on the web, and a leader in contemporary music radio, WFUV offers an eclectic mix of rock, singer-songwriters, blues, world and other music, plus headlines from National Public Radio, local news and sports and Metro Traffic.
The Alternate Side: WFUV launched a music channel online and on HD at 90.7 FM in the New York City area, in December of 2008. It includes a blend of established and emerging NYC-based indie rock, electronica, world, dance and other musical hybrids. The Alternate Side is supported in part by The New York State Music Fund, established by the New York State Attorney General at Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, and by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
More info:
E-Newsletter Signup - Weekly 'Direct from WFUV' notes
Write Us - Send a comment or question
FUV on Facebook - Our page, fans, groups
Staff Directory - Contact info for everybody
Maps and Directions - To Fordham's Rose Hill campus
Awards & Honors - Professional and student accomplishments
Job Opportunities - Check for openings
Privacy & Security - Information and technical policies
WFUV Timeline - Milestones of our first 60 years
Our licensee: Fordham University
WFUV's Statement of Goals
Governing and Advisory Bodies
Public Documents:
EEO Public File Report: Vacancies and Recruitment - July 1, 2007 - August 17, 2009 [PDF format]
EEO Public File
Application For FM Broadcast Station License
EEO General Policy
EEO Outreach Activities
Financials: 2003-4 2004-5 2005-6 2006-7 2007-8 (PDF format)
About WFUV:
WFUV Timeline: 1947-2007
Some highlights of WFUV's first 60 years on the air.
Take a Look Back:
1947The first broadcast (July 7) with Robert Henabury hosting a musical show; Vince Scully and Raymond Rahner are the first sports play by play announcers (Oct. 3); Formal Dedication (Oct. 26), with Arthur Godfrey as Master of Ceremonies and Cardinal Spellman presiding
1952Off the air for two months due to lack of funds
1953Charlie "Osgood" Wood's No Soap Opera program is billed in The Ram as "the soap opera to end all soap operas"
1954WFUV begins broadcasting in stereo
1955Neil Maffeo's Jazz Scene program broadcasts a concert by Dave Brubeck and Carmen McRae from Carnegie Hall. Dick Schwende (later known professionally as Dick Summer) lends a helping hand in the broadcast.
1962The station receives a $30,000 grant from an anonymous foundation; Sal Marchiano and Tom Moran announce the home basketball games over WFUV
1963The Time Capsule (later known as Group Harmony Review) debuts
1964Campus Caravan, hosted by Pete Fornatale, debuts
1966New transmitter increases power
1970Daily rock programming begins
1973The first Big Broadcast with Rich Conaty as host
1974Ceol na nGael debuts during fundraiser
1975One on One, New York's longest-running sports call-in show, debuts
1986A Thousand Welcomes with Kathleen Biggins debuts
1988City Folk debuts in November as three-hour show, 9 AM-Noon, between college rock and The Classical Concert; WFUV becomes public radio station, receiving support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting; The World Café debuts with WFUV as one of its pilot stations
1991Afternoon show with Darren DeVivo begins in January
1993City Folk now heard from 6:30am-6:00pm; Ben Soper hosts new evening mix from 8:00-11:00pm; Corny O'Connell joins City Folk as afternoon host
1994Rita Houston joins City Folk in March as midday host; WFUV adds hourly NPR news headlines
1997City Folk Sunday Breakfast debuts
1998First City Folk Live disc of in-studio performances
1999Woody's Children comes to WFUV
2000WFUV begins streaming at wfuv.org; Dennis Elsas joins 90.7 as afternoon host
2001City Folk Morning with Claudia Marshall and Julianne Welby debuts; Pete Fornatale and Vin Scelsa come to WFUV from 4pm to midnight on Saturday
2005After 58 years squeezed into space on the third floor of Keating Hall, WFUV moves into new, state-of-the-art broadcast center on ground floor of Keating.
2006Antenna is moved to top of 30-story building at Montefiore Medical Center, resolving 13-year dispute with the New York Botanical Garden; WFUV begins first podcasts
2007WFUV is awarded $500,000 grant from the New York State Music Fund to develop a second program stream for younger listeners
Sites referenced:
http://www.wfuv.org/about/fordham/index.html
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Definition of Community
DEFINITION OF COMMUNITY
Submitted by: Joe Smolensky (CMT-220 Spring 2010) Section CE1-01
There are several descriptions unto what a community actually is. A close look at all those definitions however point out and capture certain points without which a community would not be existent (Andy, 3). A community is a body of people having common rights, privileges, or interests, or living in the same place under the same laws and regulations (Peter, 21). It could also be used to refer to a number of animals living in a common home or with some apparent association of interests (Peter, 23). Biologically, a community could be described as a collection of organisms that in one way or another interact within a common environment (Andy, 17).
The first definition of a community was put ahead by Aristotle who described it as a group of established men having shared values (Andy, 10). Through time, technology has brought about changes, so that people in the world can easily belong to a number of communities at the same time. These are communities of place, communities of memory in which case members share a history, cultural communities, and psychological communities, Peter explains.
In general, when addressing people, a community could be the society, a commonwealth or state, a body politic, the general public, or just people (Peter, 27).
There are various characteristics of a community. In a community, there is the aspect of place, otherwise describing a sense of locale or boundaries (Andy, 33). For a community to exist, it must be within an identifiable location such as a city, a place of work, a township or even a district (Peter, 51). A community is also characterized by the sense of sharing common perspectives. For people to be described as belonging to a
community, they must be sharing some values, needs, norms, suffering, religion, happiness, and interests together (Andy, 38). Experts have established that such factors have been shared for a long period of time, say centuries.
In a community, there is the aspect of joint actions, where special bonds bring the people together- friendship, families and even working environments (Peter, 49).
In all communities of the world, there exists community spirit, though variable from a region to another (Andy, 51). All communities hold some ideas about themselves, and always identify themselves by them. In all cases, the people have positive notions, they view their community as one with a great future and this always enables them to give great contribution to the community in whatever form (Andy, 55). All persons who identify themselves with a community always sacrifice to it in the welfare.
Another major attitude in people belonging to a community is loyalty (Peter, 80). The persons always have some goodwill for the general good and always abide by it. They have a good expression of optimism, in that they know right behind their minds the community holds good for them. The attitudes are portrayed in the individual behavior, coupled by their unity and therefore contributing to the common good.
In any community however, leadership is very important. All successful communities call for coordination by a person or a team that is unanimously recognized. Such leaders are expected to steer the community ahead in the right direction. They are persons of integrity, lead by example and operate within the set norms or community ethics. For a community to be bound together, it requires proper means of conflict
resolution incase need arises (Andy, 80). Once in a while, the members cross each others’ paths, which is a normal practice. The community leaders come in and solve such misunderstandings so that the people live in harmony.
References
Peter, B. Community: The Structure of Belonging: San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler, Inc., 2008
Andy, S. Creating Community: Five Keys to Building a Small Group Culture. USA: Multnomah Publishers, 2004
Submitted by: Joe Smolensky (CMT-220 Spring 2010) Section CE1-01
There are several descriptions unto what a community actually is. A close look at all those definitions however point out and capture certain points without which a community would not be existent (Andy, 3). A community is a body of people having common rights, privileges, or interests, or living in the same place under the same laws and regulations (Peter, 21). It could also be used to refer to a number of animals living in a common home or with some apparent association of interests (Peter, 23). Biologically, a community could be described as a collection of organisms that in one way or another interact within a common environment (Andy, 17).
The first definition of a community was put ahead by Aristotle who described it as a group of established men having shared values (Andy, 10). Through time, technology has brought about changes, so that people in the world can easily belong to a number of communities at the same time. These are communities of place, communities of memory in which case members share a history, cultural communities, and psychological communities, Peter explains.
In general, when addressing people, a community could be the society, a commonwealth or state, a body politic, the general public, or just people (Peter, 27).
There are various characteristics of a community. In a community, there is the aspect of place, otherwise describing a sense of locale or boundaries (Andy, 33). For a community to exist, it must be within an identifiable location such as a city, a place of work, a township or even a district (Peter, 51). A community is also characterized by the sense of sharing common perspectives. For people to be described as belonging to a
community, they must be sharing some values, needs, norms, suffering, religion, happiness, and interests together (Andy, 38). Experts have established that such factors have been shared for a long period of time, say centuries.
In a community, there is the aspect of joint actions, where special bonds bring the people together- friendship, families and even working environments (Peter, 49).
In all communities of the world, there exists community spirit, though variable from a region to another (Andy, 51). All communities hold some ideas about themselves, and always identify themselves by them. In all cases, the people have positive notions, they view their community as one with a great future and this always enables them to give great contribution to the community in whatever form (Andy, 55). All persons who identify themselves with a community always sacrifice to it in the welfare.
Another major attitude in people belonging to a community is loyalty (Peter, 80). The persons always have some goodwill for the general good and always abide by it. They have a good expression of optimism, in that they know right behind their minds the community holds good for them. The attitudes are portrayed in the individual behavior, coupled by their unity and therefore contributing to the common good.
In any community however, leadership is very important. All successful communities call for coordination by a person or a team that is unanimously recognized. Such leaders are expected to steer the community ahead in the right direction. They are persons of integrity, lead by example and operate within the set norms or community ethics. For a community to be bound together, it requires proper means of conflict
resolution incase need arises (Andy, 80). Once in a while, the members cross each others’ paths, which is a normal practice. The community leaders come in and solve such misunderstandings so that the people live in harmony.
References
Peter, B. Community: The Structure of Belonging: San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler, Inc., 2008
Andy, S. Creating Community: Five Keys to Building a Small Group Culture. USA: Multnomah Publishers, 2004
Sunday, February 7, 2010
The Institute for the Study of Civic Values
Although established in Philadelphia I believe this Institute would be very benefical to all communities throughout the United States. This institute is invovled in many projects at one time and at this time in the United States economy in relation to the job market, I feel their PHILLY PROGRAM could be adopted in other states to help better prepare their unskilled workers and get them ready to enter the work force. See what makes this program work:
PhillyCorps is a project of the Institute for the Study of Civic Values that involves placing public assistance recipients in community service internships throughout Philadelphia linked to their current skills and long-range career goals. PhillyCorps helps people on welfare gain work experience now within the City's neighborhoods that strengthens their ability to secure full-time employment and meet long-range career goals in the future.
The Institute has been developing this program over a 10 year period. In 2002, we established an ongoing partnership with Arbor, E&T, that enables us to concentrate on building a citywide network of community service jobs, while Arbor handles case management, wraparound services, and job development. In our most recent program year in partnership with Arbor, 62% of the participants found unsubsidized jobs paying at least $7.00/hour. The wraparound services that Arbor, E&T provides enhances significantly the recipients' chances of finding good paying jobs consistent with their long-term goals.
How does PhillyCorps differ from workfare?
Evaluators of workfare programs report that participants often fail to show up for work and that their jobs often provide no skills training that can help them secure full time employment. PhillyCorps has overcome all of these obstacles. By concentrating on quality placement, case management, and on-the-job skills and work habits training, we have been able succeed where other programs have failed.
PhillyCorps provides:
Careful evaluation and placement. Each participant is evaluated for skills and aspirations. All agencies in our community service network commit to providing on-the-job training and considering interns for paid positions if available. We carefully match intern to placement slot.
Support for agencies and interns to ensure that the internship experience is a success. Case managers work with both site supervisors and interns to ensure that participants fulfill community service activities and work in positions which maximize their skills and interests.
Job readiness and career preparation training. Unlike standard job readiness models, PhillyCorps provides on-the-job training in office skills, including the use of computer software and the Internet, along with help in typing and data entry. We work with the Center for Literacy to provide workplace literacy training for interns who require this additional support.
Regional Job Development. PhillyCorps benefits from the Job Development services of Arbor, E&T
Links to formal social service networks referrals to government and private programs in order reduce barriers to long-term self-sufficiency. PhillyCorps stresses lifelong learning by helping participants develop short and long range goals, and supporting them in juggling work, family and training
A strong and qualified workforce makes for a better and stronger community.
PhillyCorps is a project of the Institute for the Study of Civic Values that involves placing public assistance recipients in community service internships throughout Philadelphia linked to their current skills and long-range career goals. PhillyCorps helps people on welfare gain work experience now within the City's neighborhoods that strengthens their ability to secure full-time employment and meet long-range career goals in the future.
The Institute has been developing this program over a 10 year period. In 2002, we established an ongoing partnership with Arbor, E&T, that enables us to concentrate on building a citywide network of community service jobs, while Arbor handles case management, wraparound services, and job development. In our most recent program year in partnership with Arbor, 62% of the participants found unsubsidized jobs paying at least $7.00/hour. The wraparound services that Arbor, E&T provides enhances significantly the recipients' chances of finding good paying jobs consistent with their long-term goals.
How does PhillyCorps differ from workfare?
Evaluators of workfare programs report that participants often fail to show up for work and that their jobs often provide no skills training that can help them secure full time employment. PhillyCorps has overcome all of these obstacles. By concentrating on quality placement, case management, and on-the-job skills and work habits training, we have been able succeed where other programs have failed.
PhillyCorps provides:
Careful evaluation and placement. Each participant is evaluated for skills and aspirations. All agencies in our community service network commit to providing on-the-job training and considering interns for paid positions if available. We carefully match intern to placement slot.
Support for agencies and interns to ensure that the internship experience is a success. Case managers work with both site supervisors and interns to ensure that participants fulfill community service activities and work in positions which maximize their skills and interests.
Job readiness and career preparation training. Unlike standard job readiness models, PhillyCorps provides on-the-job training in office skills, including the use of computer software and the Internet, along with help in typing and data entry. We work with the Center for Literacy to provide workplace literacy training for interns who require this additional support.
Regional Job Development. PhillyCorps benefits from the Job Development services of Arbor, E&T
Links to formal social service networks referrals to government and private programs in order reduce barriers to long-term self-sufficiency. PhillyCorps stresses lifelong learning by helping participants develop short and long range goals, and supporting them in juggling work, family and training
A strong and qualified workforce makes for a better and stronger community.
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