Above: Southborough Access Media is the go-to source for video coverage of town events. So, it’s not surprising that they posted a video of speeches from their big ceremony. (from SAM YouTube channel)
Over the fall and winter, Southborough Access Media moved into its new TV station at Trottier Middle School. With the move complete, the official ribbon cutting ceremony took place last week.
The new station is considered a great boon for SAM and the school. SAM has new modern facilities and easier access to the many community and school events held at Trottier. And the middle school has access for introducing kids to the technology behind the scenes (“video communication” and “digital integration”).
The new facilities will also allow them to offer programs to train volunteers on production and editing.
SAM hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony at the new station on Wednesday, January 25th. Entertainment included a special performance by the band Hit The Bus.
Speeches were given by State Representative Carolyn Dykema, Superintendent Christine Johnson, Southborough Access Media’s Executive Director, Katelyn Willis and Southborough Access Media’s President, Warren Palley.
Palley recounted the changes from more than 20 years ago. Back then, the only thing the former Cable Access channel could offer residents was graphic announcements on a digital bulletin board.
These days they regularly live broadcast and/or record for broadcast meetings and public forums several times a week.
These days, SAM allows the Southborough community to see all of the following from our own TVs or computers/devices:
- Town government in action as residents comment on controversial issues, and officials hold hearings and vote.
- Presentations by experts on education, parenting, health, history, wildlife and more.
- Community celebrations including parades, memorial speeches, parties, and festivals.
- Author nights and other library events
- Musical concerts by the schools, seniors, and guest bands at summer concerts.
- Informational videos on town issues (like Main Street, the public safety building, etc.)
- Original programming including interviews, Veteran’s Life Lessons, and more.
SAM shared a transcript of Palley’s speech and the photos below taken by photographer Jennifer MacNeil:
This is a great accomplishment. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who made this happen. SAM does a fantastic job helping keep residents up to date on what’s happening in town. Bravo!