Once upon a time...well only as far back as the early 90's, Falls Cable Access used the NASA channel to fill programming when there was no locally produced shows on the air. When NASA changed to a digital-paid service we turned the dish, located atop the high school to another bird (satellite). There we found a free-to-rebroadcast channel called the ARTS Channel. With our automated switcher in control, the ARTS channel came on whenever a VHS or DVD program ended, unless it was on repeat. Remember those good ol' days when if you missed the beginning of the "FOCUS on Our Children" show you just waited another 15 inutes and it would be on again...and again...and again.
Anyway, during that time the ARTS channel did have many viewers and honestly was consistantly more entertaining than watching the NASA logo for 2 hours. As we started to add more programming to the channel we started to get phone calls from an angry viewer, insisting that all of our programming was worthless and that we should run the ARTS channel 24/7. It didn't really hurt our feelings because we know that we can't please everyone. We would liked to have discussed it with our caller, but he never left a name or phone number with his message. His latest message (about the 50th over the last 10 years) claimed that the ARTS channel was on too late and that he was already in bed when it comes on. If only I could get to him and tell him about those new fangled VCR contraptions. Sorry, didn't mean to poke fun. As a matter of fact, I am glad he calls. I'm glad when anyone has an opinion on our programs.
Here at Falls Cable Access, we want to be your source for local programming and information. We don't want to be like all the local radio stations where the Program Manager plays his favorite music over and over. We'd like to hear what you want to see. Now, we'd rather you came in and put your own ideas on the air, but if producing a TV show isn't your cup of tea, then we'd like to hear from you about your likes and dislikes. Take the time to email any one of our shows, or let those who you know are on a show know what you think. Really, those that are involved need the feedback, they need to know that they are reaching people and promoting discussions. You can also call, like my long lost viewer, 251-2866 and leave a message.
As for our ARTS channel aficianado, we are going to schedule the ARTS channel on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 till 3:00 pm. Starting next week. Now, if you don't agree with our change in schedule, please let me know at coordinator@fallscableaccess.com . In this case, the squeaky wheel did get the grease. We could all use a little culture once in a while.
THIS WEEK ON 14
Reel Movie Talk with Matt & Paul has a special Oscar show this week leading up to the Academy Awards on Sunday evening. And as a special treat, we are going to have a Reel Movie Talk Marathon starting at noon on Sunday and running right up until the awards show.
The High School Boys Basketball game is going to be taped this week and air on Friday and Saturday. Come on out and support your local athletes.
Army Newswatch will debut a new show this week and the MF Fire Department has provided some new safety videos that provide helpful and inportant information.
As always...Stay tuned.
