Community access programming now available on the Internet

Access Carson City is offering people the chance to see some of its television shows on the Internet through its Web site, bactv.org.

The community access television service hopes to eventually move the Internet broadcasts to their own Web site. They've secured an address blutube.us for when the offerings expand.

General Manager Mike Furlong expects the service to improve and expand so that as many residents as possible can watch the community-based programming, which now shows programs on cable channels 10 and 26. The system is owned by the Brewery Arts Center, but is run as its own entity. Access and Carson City recently signed a three-year contract for service.

What is Blutube?

It's an online extension of what we do. We're switching our Internet service and this is one of the new features we're getting now. We're hoping to have it fully installed and with more programs available by Sept. 13, the date planned for the open house of Access Carson City's operations. We're basically trying to build a new brand strictly for television viewing on the Internet and it eventually will be on its own Web site.

What can people see now this way?

"Nevada Trails." The show has new episodes shown three times a week on channel 26. This program focuses on using the state's backcountry trails for all types of recreation and is expected to add segments on hunting and fishing, and other sports. On the Internet, people can see the show any time they want. You just have to have a high-speed Internet connection to view it properly.

What other Access Carson City programs will be available for viewing on the Internet?

Anything that runs on the TV channels can run on the Internet. There are plans for a show to be hosted by Javier Ramirez, the city's citizen outreach coordinator, with English and Spanish-language versions. And there will be a week-in-review-style program by Dave Morgan.

How can residents help add programming?

We need more of a pool of talent because we're building our infrastructure. A production class is being planned. It won't be free but relatively inexpensive. We have equipment to loan out and we're out in the field as much as we can shooting video, but we need more people who can use the cameras and the other equipment.

Must people use the equipment to have their programs on the air?

No. They can submit it. They sign a contract that says the submission isn't slanderous, or that it doesn't contain profanity or nudity, and that they are responsible for the content. We don't review it but we do upload it for airing, and could find objectionable content during that process. Call us and speak with us directly if you have questions about submitting material. Our number is 882-8900.