News From Davis Media Access for November 2016

News From Davis Media Access for November 2016

Contents:
Boost the Signal - Fall Fundraiser
You’re Invited! Holiday Open House Dec. 5
Fragrance Policy
Save the Date - General Orientation Jan. 18

DMA's Work Rooted in Free Expression

Regardless of how one feels about the outcome of the election, it’s clear we’re a nation deeply divided. At such a time, Davis Media Access (DMA) reaffirms its commitment to providing platforms for the diverse voices in our community and beyond. Our work is rooted in protecting and promoting access to media tools and training, and to ensuring that all people have options for expressing themselves freely. In many ways, every day, we help boost the signal of what’s happening in our community.

My early career included stints as a newspaper reporter and editor. I loved going to cover lectures, protests, and other events that opened my eyes to new information. It was my job to ask hard questions and look for more than one viewpoint or source. Newsrooms were very different places back then, and news outlets were owned by many hundreds of corporations. Since I’ve been working in non-commercial community media—20 years this month—commercial media in this country has endured consolidation and a loosening of restrictions on media cross-ownership, to the point where 90 percent of major media are owned by just six corporations. I’ve written reams about these issues, and about the dangers of watering down and homogenizing the Fourth Estate. In lieu of actual news, we’ve become a nation of news-feed junkies reinforcing our own stereotypes via the echo chamber that is social media.

Boost the Signal - Fall Fundraiser

While there are many reasons to support KDRT and Davis Media Access, our mission to amplify community voices is vital at this time. We've talked to listeners, we've tallied survey results, and we know some of you can't hear us very well! We have a plan, and now we’re asking you to Signal Your Support.

KDRT’s very first Fall Fundraiser aims to raise $5,200 for a new antenna to Boost the Signal across Davis. Jeff Shaw, who serves both as DMA’s production manager and KDT’s general manager, explains. "Our antenna was hastily installed in 2008 when we had to change frequencies, and it’s less than ideal –we've found our signal reach is not ideal for many listeners in Davis. We want to improve our signal so everyone in Davis can hear KDRT 95.7 FM clearly."

To donate, visit here. The fundraiser kicks off Nov. 28, but early-bird donations are welcome, too, of course! Please help us increase our reach across Davis: Boost the Signal! Don't miss the selection of thank-you gifts available on the donation page.

KDRT’s programmers and volunteer Management Team invite you to tune in for some special fundraiser programming starting at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 28, and running through Dec. 5. We hope to celebrate our success at DMA’s Holiday Open House on Dec. 5. Thank you!

You’re Invited! Holiday Open House Dec. 5

Our DMA community celebrates the winter holidays in many ways, pulling from many traditions. However you celebrate, we hope you’ll join us on Monday, Dec. 5 between 6-8:30 p.m for our Annual Holiday Open House. If you’ve been before, you know it’s a jam-packed celebration of everything DMA, with abundant food and drink, and lots of fun folk. If you haven’t been, it’s a great time to learn more about DMA’s work, and meet some of the vibrant people who participate here. All are welcome; no RSVP necessary. Please drop by any time during the evening!

Fragrance Policy

Did you know? Allergies to fragrance or multiple chemical sensitivities can be classified as disabilities under ADA, the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are a number of people within the DMA community for whom artificial fragrance is not just unappealing, but constitutes a health hazard. This includes perfume and cologne, scented soaps, heavily scented deodorants, etc. Please help us make DMA a fragrance-free zone, and leave the fragranced products behind when you participate here. Thank you!

Save the Date - General Orientation Jan. 18

Curious about KDRT, DCTV or DJUSD Channel 17, and want to learn how Davis Media Access can help you? Plan to attend one of our General Orientations! We take a break from orientations in December, but return Jan. 18 at 6:30 p.m. Any potential volunteers should attend one of these, held monthly. They last about an hour and include the history of Davis Media Access, a tour of the facilities, and information on how to get involved. Anybody is welcome to attend an Orientation, but to use the facility for your own productions you have to live, go to school, or volunteer at an organization in Davis, California. Davis Media Access does not charge for the use of our equipment and facilities and attending a General Orientation is the first step for getting involved. Register now.