Questions & Answers The Answer Owl
If there is an event I need covered, can you send someone out to tape it?
Danvers Community Access Television encourages all residents of Danvers to create programming on their own. We understand individuals have busy schedules and lives, so even though DCAT will not send staff to tape your event, will help you find volunteers who will. If you want to tape the event yourself, DCAT will be happy to have you as a member and provide you with training.
Where does DCAT get it's funding from?
The cable companies in Danvers, Comcast and Verizon, are contractually obligated to give the town 3% of their gross revenue. The town allocates the money towards the upkeep of Danvers Community Access Television.
Aren't you the cable company?
No, DCAT is a non-profit organization that maintains the Public, Education and Government channels for the town. On Comcast these channels are 99, 10 and 22. On Verizon the channels are 36, 37 and 42. We do not make any decisions about the other channels.
How many people watch your channels?
Although DCAT doesn't have an exact number of viewers, we know that Danvers population is about 25,000 people within 9,500 households. There are about 8,800 subscribers including homes and businesses.
How can I get a program on the air?
To get an already made program on DCAT's public access channel you must be from Danvers or have a sponsor from Danvers. The request must be approved by the Executive Director. Once the show is accepted, the sponsor must sign a Cable Access Usage Agreement.

If you would like to create a program, you will need to live in Danvers and sign up as a DCAT member. After you sign up, you will have to attend an orientation classThis orientation is free once a member signs up. It is designed to introduce the new member to DCAT's policies and procedures. The member will also get a tour of the studio and discuss their future goals with DCAT. (No pre-requisite, Approximately 1 hour, by appointment)  and a studio classThis class is the first step for a DCAT Member to produce their own studio show. It will introduce the member to all the different equipment in the studio such as camera, switcher, teleprompter, audio board and graphics. They will also learn basic video techniques to help give them the tools to create a professional, polished looking show.

(Pre-requisite—Member Orientation, Approximately 5 hours in multiple sessions, by appointment)  or field production classField production is shooting a show in a place other than the studio. DCAT has fully loaded field production kits complete with: camera, microphones, portable hard drives and tripods. Pair this class up with the non-linear editing class and create a dynamic on-location show. (Pre-requisite—Member Orientation, Approximately 2 hours, by appointment)"  (depending on the type of show you would like to make). At this point you will have the tools to become a show producer.
How can I get a message on your Electronic Bulletin Board?
DCAT will only post messages of non-profit and community organizations. Messages will air two weeks prior to the event and will be taken down. Include all the information about the event as well as a contact number. The DCAT website has a form that can be filled out and sent directly. You can also email your message to Ginny at Ginny@danverstv.org, or fax her at (978) 777-3630.
Can I use DCAT equipment for personal use?
DCAT makes professional equipment available to our members under the condition they are creating programming for the purpose of airing on our channels and not for profit making under any circumstance.
Can you just do it for me?
DCAT provides members with tools to be able to create their own programming. We are confident that given the right training, equipment and opportunities, our members can make quality programming. So, no, we cannot do it for you, but we will help you along the way.
How much does it cost to become a member of DCAT?
MembershipAll persons, firms, corporations, businesses, organizations, institutions, and other entities in the Town of Danvers who subscribe to the purpose of Danvers Community Access Television, Inc. (DCAT), and who support the Corporation by participation, or with a contribution of money, service or equipment, shall be eligible for membership in the Corporation. In addition, bona fide candidates for public office for whom Danvers residents may vote are entitled to free access as detailed in here.  rates for individuals are $10 per year and $25 for 3 years. Family membership is $20 per year and $25 for three years. Lifetime membership is $150 for everyone. Once you become a member you will receive an individualized packet which will provide comprehensive information about DCAT and its opportunities.
May I receive a copy of a show, event or meeting that I viewed on DCAT?
DCAT members may request a copy for $10 per DVD and $5 for any additional copies of the same show. For non-members the cost is $20 and $5 for additional DVD's.
Do you accept interns or provide community service opportunities for Danvers residents?
DCAT provides Danvers High School students a venue to complete their community service requirements. InternsThe DCAT Internship Program is unpaid. As a prospective intern, it is your responsibility to make arrangements with the appropriate advisor at your school, college or university to receive credit. Interns will be required to complete DCAT training workshops as needed for production assignments during the first part of the internship program. Perspective interns are required to submit a cover letter and resume. Your cover letter should include any relevant experience/coursework you may have, how you expect to use the experience you gain at DCAT in your future plans, and how your talents and skills may best be utilized at Danvers Community Access Television."  are welcome to apply for the opportunity to be involved in their chosen field of study.
How can I find out what is being broadcasted on DCAT?
The interactive program schedule is available on our website for Comcast channels 99, 10 & 22 and Verizon channels 36, 37 & 41.
How can I be kept updated on the latest news and goings on for DCAT?
DCAT publishes a Newsletter which is emailed to all our members. The newsletter gives members a comprehensive overview of past and future events and important information that members will find interesting.
How can my children be involved with DCAT?
Every summer DCAT offers a Weekly Camp Program for children between the ages of 10-14. The camp offers a multitude of exciting and educational activities for them in the field of broadcasting. Ultimately, they will create a show which will be aired on DCAT. Other events include an annual Halloween Night's where children dress up for the evening and an Open House for Kids. The newsletter will provide the full details for these and other exciting opportunities being planned for the future. (Make sure you're on our newsletter email list!)
How can they show that on DCAT?
The public access station is an electronic forum for free expression by the residents of Danvers. The First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees this freedom of speech. Any resident of Danvers is free to say or do anything on public access television as long as the content is not illegal or obscene.
How can I support DCAT?
DCAT is a 501(c)(3), a non-profit corporation and accepts tax deductable donations and sponsorships monies.
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