EDISON – The township’s public cable access station, Channel 15, was recognized for excellence by the Alliance for Community Media, receiving the Overall Excellence in Government Access from the Hometown Video Awards, the largest video cable awards program in the nation, on June 24.
“We’re very grateful for this honor. In 2006 we had added new innovative programs, and last year we were able to build on that. We look forward to continuing to serve the residents with great programming,” said Edison TV Station Manager Michael D’Amato.
Along with D’Amato, Edison TV’s staff is made up of Edward Cologna, a video field producer, and George “Red” Ellis, video camera operator. The station is supervised by Communications Director Jerry Barca.
It is the second year in a row that Edison has received this award, in the category for budgets under $200,000. This year there were more than 1,000 entrants.
This is the third award the township has received for its cable access channel, having also received recognition for Best Special Entry in New Jersey’s 46th Annual Municipal Public Information Contest.
Edison TV’s nomination included segments from: the tribute video for local hero and NASA Astronaut Mark Polansky; an “Edison On Stage” interview with famed actor Jack Klugman; the volunteerism based program “Edison: Make a Difference”; the 2007 Edison Summer Concert Series promo; snippets from “Edison Trivia”; the winter safety tips show; and a video news release updating residents on news in the town.
Edison Mayor Jun Choi said he was proud of the award, and that it is reflective of the quality of the work performed by a small number of people.
“We’re very proud of the work done by Edison TV. This is a small staff that consistently provides informative, educational and quality programming for our community,” said Choi.
The Alliance for Community Media educates and advocates on behalf of community media. For 31 years, the Hometown Video Awards have been presented to creative programs that address community needs, develop diverse community involvement, challenge conventional commercial television formats, and move viewers to experience television in a different way.