 Local Access Channels Exploring 'New Media' Opportunities, Expanding OptionsThe community-based non-profit organizations that operate local access cable TV channels in the Berkshires have been expanding their roles and strengthening their ties to their communities to adapt to the volatile era of "new media."  Public Access Stations Look to Legislature, Alternatives for RevenueThere has been a steady decline in traditional cable TV subscribers, as viewers turn to online streaming media. This includes existing subscribers who "cut the cord" and young people who have grown up using online media rather than traditional cable. Local Public-Access Stations Face Funding Challenges in Streaming EraLocal public-access cable television channels have an important role in the media landscape of Berkshire County. Dalton Pushes for Capital Funding in Charter ContractThe Cable Advisory Commission presented its pressing needs for local cable access to a Charter Communications representative, with hopes they will be included in the cable company's draft license.  WilliNet Facing Dane's Retirement, Uncertain Fiscal FutureThe face of and driving force behind the town's community access television station will retire this summer. Dalton Cable Advisory Comm Emphasizes Stations NeedAs the Cable Advisory Commission works to update its contract with Charter Communications, questions have arisen about whether the town can recover the unpaid capital costs from the past four decades. Dalton Cable Panel Works to Update ContractThe last time the town had a contract was in 1997 with Time Warner Cable, which was acquired by Charter Communications, doing business as Spectrum, in 2016. |
