 |
|
|
|
|
|
 What is AccessVision?Voice of the peopleAccess is obviously the mission of AccessVision. With its non-commercial format, AccessVision doesnt have to rely on glitzy effects and worn-out formulas to attract advertising dollars. The stage is set for true innovation. The doors are open to creative concepts by the areas most innovative minds. Watching AccessVision can be a real adventure. AccessVision is also a powerful medium for educating people about issues. Community organizations are able to reach the community regarding their concerns and to help residents better utilize their services. Perhaps most importantly, AccessVision provides a forum for individuals. Alternative perspectives are welcomed and even encouraged, providing a rich and healthy dialogue even a relief valve for discontent. Viewers can explore a wide variety of viewpoints. Presenters can make their case without first amassing the huge sums necessary for commercial television spots. AccessVision is a greenhouse for growing local solutions to local problems. Where AccessVision gets its funding In April 1987, the cities of Battle Creek, Springfield, Emmett Township and Newton Township approved a fifteen-year agreement with WestMarc Cable to operate an expanded cable television system. This non-exclusive franchise agreement included a provision requiring WestMarc Cable to designate three of the cable channels for governmental, educational and public access. Under the terms of the agreement, these participating municipalities receive a 5% franchise fee. The governmental units retain 40% of this revenue to monitor and maintain the contract. The remaining 60% of the revenue has been earmarked to support AccessVision. Additional private sector funding in the form of grants and donations is also required for the purchase and maintenance of television production equipment. No tax dollars are used to support the access channels. AccessVision is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit organization overseen by a board of directors, consisting of appointed representatives from each of the participating municipalities, as well as citizen representatives of diverse backgrounds. Your support is needed Up to now, AccessVision has been able to offer this forum for ideas, relying heavily on franchise fees. A full 80 percent of the budget comes from that source. Unfortunately, such fees are not assured, and as the mood of the country tends more and more toward self-reliance and private support, it is likely that alternative funding will be necessary for AccessVisions survival. The answer is the AccessVision Endowment Fund, set up through the Battle Creek Community Foundation. Your gift will assure the future of Battle Creeks voice of the people, even if other funding disappears. A painless gift Besides the pride of knowing that you are helping support the exchange of ideas and information, you will also be able to benefit from certain tax deductions. You can claim the Michigan Community Foundation Tax Credit a direct partial refund of your gift. In addition to the Michigan Income Tax Credit, your gift is eligible for a deduction on your Federal Income Tax return. You may also increase your gift without cost, by asking your employer if there is a donation-matching program at your company. Another form of painless giving is a bequest. Or, you may wish to remember a caring or community-minded loved one by helping to provide a healthy forum for local solutions, opinions and ideas. If you are interested in helping support AccessVision or would like more information, e-mail the Executive Director, or call 269-968-3633. |
|
|||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||
