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1. What is Public Access?

Public access exists due to an agreement between the cable company and the communities it serves. Public access programming is community programming on cable TV. It gives you the opportunity to write, produce, direct, and perform in your own programs. People who normally are not allowed easy access to the mass media find a powerful resource for local expression through public access. A majority of public access programs are produced locally by non-professionals.

2. Who is Public Access for?

Anyone with a non-commercial message or idea can present it on the public access channel.

3. Why should I get involved in Public Access television?

Public access is a great opportunity to take a stand on a current issue, or let the community know what your group is doing. It’s a cost-free way to promote your special interest or event and have fun doing it.

What programs are seen on public access? Any programming protected by the first amendment which is not commercial, libelous, slanderous, or obscene in nature may be shown on public access. These include many types of programs, such as:

• Documentaries
• Educational
• Entertainment
• Interviews
• Panel discussions
• Performances
• Political
• Religious
• Sports

4. How can I get involved with Public Access?

Getting involved with public access begins with taking our public access workshops. Through these classes, you can become a Community Access Producer. Then you can use Rialto Network video equipment to make your own programs. The classes cover the basic elements of TV production, such as:

• Audio
• Camera
• Editing
• Lighting

The classes, channel time, and use of equipment are free. The amount of time and energy you devote to the program is up to you. It can be hard work, but well worth the effort.

5. What does it cost to produce a Public Access show?

The costs to produce a public access show are minimal. The classes are free, and the use of facilities and equipment is free. Therefore, generally, your only costs are the costs for your external hard drive (to back up your files). Any additional costs are up to you; if you wish to invest your money into the production value of your show, you are free to do so.

6. Can I make money off of my show?

No, you cannot make a profit from your public access show. You are also prohibited from using public access equipment and facilities on other projects which can generate revenue.

7. Can I use Public Access equipment or facilities for my own person interests?

No, you may not use public access equipment or facilities for your own interests, even if they generate no revenue. The equipment and facilities are provided to you solely for use in producing public access programming. They are not intended for use in producing school projects, family videos, or other hobbies, unless you intend to show said projects on the public access channel.

8. Can I use my own equipment to produce my show?

Yes, you may use your own equipment to produce your show. The final video must be in a format which is acceptable for playback on Rialto Network.

9. How can I find crew to help me produce my show?

The best way to find crew for your show is by "networking." We encourage the "buddy system," where producers help each other on their shows. By doing so, your chances of finding crew is increased.

10. How many people do I need to crew my show?

The more people you have to crew your show, the easier it will be to produce, and the better it will look! To cover every crew position, you will need four people. You may or many not need this many people, depending on the complexity of your show. On a more simple production, you may be able to combine some of the crew positions.

We require a minimum of two people to crew your show. Rialto Network staff should not be considered to fill crew positions.